Local Motion 2024-2025

LOCAL MOTION

KNOW A PROBST

Your guide to living local

The Winter Garden Ricochet — the original name for the West Orange Times & Observer — published its first edition on Sept. 13, 1905.

In that first edition, Editor A.B. Newton wrote: "We hope to be some service to our section, county and state, and invite the patronage and friendly consideration of our readers."

Nearly 120 years later, Newton's passion continues to fuel the Observer Media Group as we serve as the newspapers of record for West Orange, Southwest Orange, and its cities and surrounding communities.

And it is with that same passion that I am delighted to present to you our 2024-25 edition of Local Motion: An Insider’s Guide to Living in West Orange County Whether you're new to our area or have lived here for your entire life, I am quite certain you will learn something new about our community in these pages. Inside, you'll find complete

guides to Winter Garden, Horizon West, Ocoee, Windermere, Oakland, Dr. Phillips and Gotha. You'll meet local leaders, learn about hidden gems, discover the best places to eat and fill your calendar with many of our awesome community events. We also have round-ups of local civic organizations and nonprofits, and our 2024-25 Back to School guide.

This year, we're pleased to introduce four ideas for date nights — featuring local food and entertainment — all at varying price points. And yes, we even have one for families!

We hope you find Local Motion informative and helpful. To stay connected, make sure to grab copies of our West Orange Times & Observer and Southwest Orange Observer newspapers; bookmark OrangeObserver.com; and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X (search for Orange Observer).

— MICHAEL ENG

LOCAL MOTION

PRESIDENT

Emily Walsh

EDITOR AND PUBLISHER

Michael Eng

EDITORIAL

News Editor Annabelle Sikes

Community Editor Amy Quesinberry

Sports Editor Sam Albuquerque

Design Editor Jess Eng

ADVERTISING

Sales Manager

Cyndi Gustafson

Multimedia Advertising Executive

Iggy Collazo

Advertising Operations Manager

Allison Brunelle

Marketing and Sales Associate

Zari Gotay

CREATIVE SERVICES

Graphic Designer Sarah Santiago

COVER ART:

Kassondra

WINTER GARDEN With its 'Juicy Past,' City Continues to Shine

What was once fertile farmland is now a popular Central Florida destination.

Today, Winter Garden is known for its incredible downtown district, excellent schools, beautiful neighborhoods and business community. But when settlers began arriving to the area in the 1850s, they saw potential not as a bustling city but as a perfect place for farming.

In the fertile land bordering Lake Apopka, newcomers grew citrus and vegetable crops, and lived in small settlements situated along the lake’s south shore. By the end of the 19th century, Winter Garden’s business district had grown alongside the two railroad lines that ran through the city. The commercial buildings were rebuilt with brick after two fires destroyed the wooden buildings and packinghouses that stood along Plant and Main streets.

Winter Garden was established in 1903 and incorporated as a city in 1908. The population of Winter Garden had grown to more than 1,000 people by 1920, and the city quickly became the center of commerce and agriculture in West Orange County. Lake Apopka’s emergence as “the large-mouth bass capital” attracted tourists, and the Edgewater Hotel opened in 1927 to accommodate these visitors. Early residents either owned or worked in the groves. As the citrus industry grew in importance and acreage, the commercial district continued to expand.

Winter Garden’s rapid development slowed considerably in the late 1960s. Lake Apopka had become severely polluted, and the construction of major highways in the area drew businesses away from downtown.

Despite the challenges, Winter Garden’s architectural heritage remained intact. The establishment of the West Orange Trail attracted thousands of visitors eager to patronize the new shops and restaurants.

Today, Winter Garden’s Historic District serves as a successful example of historic preservation. Infill development, redevelopment, repurposed buildings, preservation, housing and businesses all converge to create a thriving downtown.

LOCAL LEADERS

Mayor John Rees

Rees is a lifelong resident of Winter Garden and has served as mayor of Winter Garden for 16 years and was a city commissioner for 12 years prior. He currently serves as the longest tenured mayor of the city.

Mayor Pro-Tem,

District 1 Commissioner Lisa Bennett

Bennett is a lifelong resident of Winter Garden and has served District 1 for seven years and formerly served on the city’s Architectural Review Board. Some of Bennett's fondest memories growing up are riding horses in the orange grove, taking swimming lessons at the city pool down by Lake Apopka in the summer, smelling all the fresh cut grass and getting a piece of candy afterwards at the little store across the street in the boat basin. If she could go back in time, she would love to see when Lake Apopka was famous for fishing.

District 2 Commissioner Iliana Ramos Jones

Jones is in her first term serving the city. For Jones, a hidden gem in Winter Garden is the Path of Life at Chapin Station, a calming butterfly garden that pays tribute to loved ones, created by the Bloom & Grow Garden Society. Her favorite thing to do in the city on a Friday night is sampling the fine cuisine that historic downtown Winter Garden offers. Her fondest memory in the city is going to see "Casablanca" with her mother at the Garden Theatre.

District 3 Commissioner Chloe Johnson

Johnson is in her first year serving the city. She believes one hidden gem in Winter Garden is the Historic East Winter Garden Neighborhood. "It’s full of love, wisdom, and so much talent is there," she said. "My fondest memory in Winter Garden was in June 2020, when the community came together for one purpose, and that was unity. The citizens, pastors, community leaders, police officers and city officials marched from Veterans Park to City Hall. It will be a memory that I will always cherish."

District 4 Commissioner Colin Sharman

Sharman has served the citizens of Winter Garden as commissioner since 2006. Sharman's favorite thing to do in Winter Garden on a Friday night is eating at one of the restaurants in downtown Winter Garden and walking up and down Plant Street. He wishes he could go back in time to see what Winter Garden used to look like when it was in its prime citrus era (like what you see in the old photos).

City Manager Jon C. Williams

Williams has been with the city of Winter Garden since early 2018. He became city manager in 2021 after serving as assistant city manager of public services. Although Williams has many fond memories in Winter Garden, he said being appointed city manager and having the opportunity to serve the great city, alongside the best employees, is something he cherishes daily. He wishes he could go back in time to see the thriving citrus groves.

WELCOME TO WINTER GARDEN

Welcome to the city of Winter Garden! Recognized nationally as one of the best places to live, this former citrus town embodies a wealth of historical, cultural and natural assets, including a charming downtown and an award-winning bike trail.

Widely popular, historic downtown Winter Garden provides a mix of restaurants, retail shops, and cultural and recreational assets. The 22-mile West Orange Trail winds through the heart of downtown, and every Saturday, the award-winning Winter Garden Farmers Market provides a community hub.

The city is committed to delivering top-notch customer service to its more than 50,000 residents and 2,000 businesses. The city of Winter Garden’s small-town appeal, coupled with contemporary and progressive amenities, creates an ideal lifestyle, truly making it a top choice to live, work and play.

Once again, welcome and enjoy Winter Garden, where good things grow.

— Mayor John Rees

SERVICE WITH A SMILE

n Winter Garden City Hall: 300 W. Plant St., (407) 656-4111

n Cable/internet: Spectrum, (407) 291-2500; DIRECTV, (866) 906-2621; DISH, (844) 306-7067; AT&T, (866) 817-0776; CenturyLink, (877) 862-9343; EarthLink, (844) 903-3107

n Power/electric: Duke Energy, (800) 700-8744

n Fire: Winter Garden Fire Rescue Department, (407) 877-5175

n Police: Winter Garden Police Department, (407) 656-3636

n Solid waste: City of Winter Garden, (407) 656-2256

n Utilities: (water, sewer) Winter Garden Water Department, (407) 656-4100

n Lake Apopka Natural Gas: (407) 656-2734

Supporting community growth is about providing financial solutions and guidance that people and businesses can trust.

That’s what Valley is all about.

Let us help you reach your goals!

WINTER GARDEN

NOTABLE NAMES SIGNATURE EVENTS

Spring Fever in the Garden. Presented by the Bloom & Grow Garden Society, Winter Garden's annul plant and garden show attracts green thumbs from far and wide. The two-day event features the popular Chalkin’ It Up sidewalk chalk art contest, Kids Zone, live music and more.

Winter Garden Heritage & Music Festival. This annual free event, held in February, is a mega outdoor concert that provides 11 hours of continuous live entertainment across multiple stages throughout historic downtown.

All-American Kids Parade. A family favorite, this patriotic July 4 parade, presented by the Winter Garden Masonic Lodge No. 165, allows children to decorate their bikes, scooters and wagons for a spirited stroll through downtown Winter Garden.

Winter Garden Fireworks Display. End the Fourth of July holiday with a bang by taking in a fireworks display on Lake Apopka.

Winter Garden Halloween Experience. This multi-day event includes a hay maze, holidaythemed photo locations, decorations, light displays, an animated Halloween light show on City Hall and live entertainment.

City of Winter Garden Christmas Parade. Kick off the holiday season with a jolly parade through Winter Garden. Local organizations, clubs, bands and businesses come together for some spirited fun.

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Light Up Winter Garden. One of the hallmark events of the holiday season, thousands head over to Plant Street each year to take in the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree and enjoy the festivities.

n Henry Bradley Plant was the founder and president of the Plant System of railways, steamship lines and hotels. Plant Street in downtown Winter Garden is named for him.

n A.B. Newton published the city’s first newspaper, The Ricochet, and was the first mayor, postmaster and storekeeper.

n Since 1976, Charlie Mae Wilder has initiated programs dedicated to improving the lives of West Orange County residents. She helped open the Neighborhood Center for Families at the Mildred Dixon Activity Center, began the Winter Garden Community Garden on Ninth Street, was instrumental in creating the East Winter Garden Community Development Corporation and was involved in the East Winter Garden Neighborhood Association's promotion of youth employment projects. She also was appointed by the city of Winter Garden to serve as District 3 Commissioner upon

Mildred Dixon’s death, serving from 2006 to 2007 until a new election could be held. A city park was named in her honor in June 2024.

n In late 1991, the city government officially endorsed downtown’s revitalization efforts. Multiple visionaries, such as Paul Lewis, the first chairman of Main Street Winter Garden, saw the potential in fostering a reborn, unique, bustling community among the venerable structures. To accomplish this required funds, people and government approval. A successful bid to establish a Community Redevelopment Agency to encompass the commercial district brought these three elements together. A CRA receives extra funding from property taxes and then reallocates those funds in a multitude of ways to improve the economic health of an area. The distribution of this revenue immediately began to rejuvenate various Winter Garden businesses and municipal projects.

WINTER GARDEN

Downtown Winter Garden has an abundance of datenight options that include dinner and entertainment for less than $150.

The downtown corridor is friendly to walkers and cyclists, as well as folks in golf carts and vehicles — and parking is free.

Take your date by the hand and head to Plant Street or one of the many side streets with restaurants. If you are dining at the Hangry Bison, you have the option of inside and outside tables plus seating at the bar.

The Hangry Bison, 250 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, features a create-your-own burger concept, and the specialty plate can be of bison, turkey, Italian sausage, short rib, mushroom or chicken. The menu includes a hearty selection of appetizers and salads, as well as a kids section.

Craft drinks, such as the Smoked Bison or Bourbon Hangria; wine; IPA flights; and an elaborate whiskey and bourbon selection, all are available.

Next up at the restored Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, is “Pippin,” which tells the story of a young man who searches for the secret to true happiness and fulfillment. He seeks it in the glories of the battlefield, the temptations of the flesh and the intrigues of political power. At the journey’s end, Pippin discovers happiness lies not in extraordinary endeavors but rather in life's unextraordinary moments.

Tickets for shows typically range from $45 to $75.

If you opt for the less expensive tickets, you might have enough cash left over for a concession stand snack at the show or even ice cream afterward.

— AMY QUESINBERRY

HANGRY BISON

n Hangry Bison burger, $18

n Bourbon chicken salad, $14

n Apple walnut bread pudding, $7

n Two drinks, about $20

GARDEN THEATRE

n Two “Pippin” tickets, $45 apiece

HORIZON WEST

Leaps and Bounds

The master-planned Horizon West is as unique as its diverse population.

Like many other areas in West Orange and Southwest Orange, the area now known as Horizon West was home to thousands of acres of robust citrus groves. But in the 1980s, a series of freezes devastated those groves and forced much of the citrus production to relocate to the warmer climate of South Florida.

As a result, conversations began about how to develop the area where the orange groves once thrived. However, existing land-use regulations in the rural area only allowed one house to be built per 10 acres.

Landowners met to devise a plan. Ultimately, those conversations continued with Orange County leaders, and together, they began to develop a master plan for the area. In 1993, the owners — Horizon West Inc. — hired VHB MillerSellen to prepare the Horizon West sector plan, which included the project concept, design standards and a planning overlay.

The county approved this framework on June 5, 1995.

The objective of the plan for Horizon West was to avoid urban sprawl through the creation of a more sustainable growth management approach. The community reflects the principles of garden cities and new urbanism, ensuring new development will contribute to maintaining a sense of place, environmental protection, excellent architectural design, and quality pedestrian environments and community spaces.

Early on, the influence of Ebenezer Howard’s Garden Cities model led to the preliminary design of independent, self-sustaining villages. At build out, the goal of Horizon West is to create a village development pattern while preserving large quantities of open space, as well as using public/private

LOCAL LEADER

Horizon West was designed under the principle that parks would be located within the communities they served, and we have been thrilled to open several of these in the last year. We have also broken ground on the 215-acre Horizon West Regional Park, which will be situated next to a stateof-the-art library coming in 2025. As Horizon West grows, so does the need for safety. We continue to bring road safety improvements to the forefront, while increasing the presence of police and fire personnel.

— District 1 Orange County Commissioner Nicole Wilson

SERVICE WITH A SMILE

n Orange County Administration Center, 201 S. Rosalind Ave., Orlando

n Cable/internet: Spectrum, (407) 2912500; DIRECTV, (866) 906-2621; DISH, (844) 306-7067; AT&T, (866) 817-0776; CenturyLink, (877) 862-9343; EarthLink, (844) 9033107

n Power/electric: Duke Energy, (800) 700-8744

n Fire: Orange County Fire Rescue, (407) 8369000

n Police: Orange County Sheriff’s Office, (407) 254-7000

n Trash: Orange County Solid Waste, (407) 836-6601

n Utilities (water/ sewer): Orange County Utilities, (407) 836-5515

SIGNATURE EVENTS

Homegrown in Horizon West. Held the first Sunday of each month in Hamlin, this event is a pop-up market that offers a plethora of vendors, activities, food, live music and more.

Horizon West Fest. This celebration of all things Horizon West brings the community together for a day of fun in the sun.

Hamiln Craft Beer Festival. This spring festival, offered by Legacy Events for Education and Observer Media Group, features some of the best craft beers from throughout Florida and beyond. Proceeds benefit Legacy, which provides scholarships to local graduating seniors.

NOTABLE NAMES

Hamlin Easter Bunny Meet and Greet. Families have a chance to enjoy some pre-Easter fun at this annual event.

Hamlin Hoedown. This farminspired event features pony rides, a barnyard petting zoo, live music, crafts, games and plenty of food vendors.

Flavor Fest Horizon West. This fall festival provides an immersive experience to enjoy a fusion of food, culture and arts along with live music performances.

Santa's Coming to Hamlin. Of course, no community would be complete without a Christmas celebration.

n The original Horizon West Inc. board members included Pat Ahrendt, Jack Amon, A. Kurt Ardaman, Lester Austin, Billy Burch, Randy June, Jim Karr, Tom Lewis and Don Phillips

n Arthur George Hamlin was an attorney who came to Florida in the 1880s, grew citrus and eventually developed the Hamlin orange, for which the Hamlin community is named. His legacy will be cemented into Horizon West through A.G.’s Market — announced in 2019 — named in his honor.

n Jerry Chicone Jr., aka Mr. Florida Citrus, was one of West Orange's most prominent citrus growers. But after multiple freezes in the 1980s, Chicone began talking with fellow landowners about development. Those talks birthed the idea of Horizon West.

n Scott T. Boyd, not to be confused with former Orange County Commissioner S. Scott Boyd, is the owner and president of Boyd Development Corporation. His company is the Winter Garden-based realestate development organization behind the 1,000-plus-acre Hamlin Town Center. In his spare time, Boyd serves as the Orlando chair of the National Christian Foundation, sits on the board for Lift Orlando and served as chair at The First Academy for 12 years.

n Linda Chapin was the Orange County mayor who supported the original development plans for Horizon West.

partnerships to help provide community amenities and public infrastructure.

Horizon West’s design divides the community into six villages — Lakeside, Bridgewater, Town Center, Village F (Seidel area), Hickory Nut and Ovation. Horizon West villages typically include two to four neighborhoods and are set up around the community schools and parks. Each has a center that provides community shopping and services.

Lakeside Village is located in the easternmost portion of Horizon West and surrounds the Reams Road area, right behind Magic Kingdom. Village F, one of the more central portions of Horizon West, also backs to Magic Kingdom. The Village of Bridgewater is located in the northeast portion of Horizon West, and Ovation Village sits at the southernmost area. Hickory Nut Village hugs the western side of State Road 429 and gives way to the Town Center, commonly referred to as Hamlin. The Town Center is designed to be the largest commercial area and is surrounded by dense residential neighborhoods.

Horizon West is considered one of the fastest-growing, master-planned communities in the nation. In total, the community has been approved for 40,282 units, making the projected population at build out 100,705. Although it comprises just 4% of Orange County, the area has been responsible for more than half of the building permits pulled county-wide in the last few years.

The area has seen many exciting developments recently, with a host of unique restaurants and shops, and most recently welcomed the Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine — and its beautiful threestory, 144,000-square-foot facility that cost $75 million to construct — to the area.

Date Night HORIZON WEST

Price Point: $200

SOUTHERN HILL FARMS

n Fall Festival tickets, $21.95 plus taxes and fees (weekdays); $24.95 plus taxes and fees (weekends)

n U-pick events, free entry, pay for what you pick

FORD’S GARAGE

n Giant Funnel Tower of Jumbo Piston Onion Rings, $13.50

n Estate Burger, $17.50

n Blackened Salmon Salad, $22.99

n Junior Cheeseburger, $9.50

n Ford’s Famous Fish Planks $9.50

CRUMBL

n Four-pack, $16.99

Why should couples have all the fun? Let’s face it: Moms and dads of young children can’t just abandon the kids at home for a big night out on the town.

Luckily, Horizon West is the perfect community for a family date night! There are many, many options in the area for food, fun and entertainment. Here, we present just one combination that will ensure a memorable day for parents and kids alike!

When Schofield Road opened last fall, it not only offered a quick route to Clermont but also gave Horizon West families an easy, leisurely drive to Southern Hill Farms, 16651 Schofield Road, Clermont, one of the area’s most unique — and wallet friendly — sources of entertainment.

Throughout the year, Southern Hill Farms is open seasonally for various activities on the farm. In the fall, be sure to check out the annual Fall

Festival ($21.95 on weekdays; $24.95 on weekends), and in the winter and spring seasons, head out to pick your own fresh fruits and vegetables!

Winter u-pick crops include strawberries, sunflowers and seasonal vegetables; spring crops include blueberries, sunflowers, zinnias, peaches and seasonal vegetables. For u-picks, it is free to enter the farm.

In addition, the farm offers food trucks, live entertainment on the weekends and a market. The Kid Zone is available during the winter and spring u-pick seasons and for Southern Hill summer events. Kid Zone unlimited play wristbands are $18 for children under 42 inches tall and $22 for those 42 inches and taller.

After you’ve had your fill of fun on the farm, we recommend heading to Ford’s Garage, 5375 Hamlin Groves Trail, Winter Garden, for dinner. This restaurant is designed to look and

feel like a vintage 1920s service station, and its menu is big enough to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Start with the Giant Funnel Tower of Jumbo Piston Onion Rings ($13.50). For the grown-ups, we suggest the Estate Burger ($17.50), which features smoked gouda, sweet red onion marmalade, arugula, tomato, fried onion straws and white truffle bacon aioli on a brioche bun; and the Blackened Salmon Salad ($22.99), which features 8 ounces of Norwegian Atlantic salmon on mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, red onions, cucumbers and avocado.

For the kiddos, try the Junior Cheeseburger ($9.50) or Ford’s Famous Fish Planks ($9.50).

We’d be doing you a disservice if we didn’t recommend hitting Crumbl, 16027 New Independence Parkway, Winter Garden, for dessert. This boutique bakery serves up a variety of extraordinarily decadent cookies, with rotating flavors each week. A fourpack costs $16.99 and allows you to mix and match. A word of warning: Proceed with caution and do not let your kids (or yourselves) eat an entire gigantic cookie. The guilt and sugar rush might destroy the whole day!

— MICHAEL ENG

The Center of Good Living

Originally a small agricultural settlement, focusing on citrus and vegetable farming, the town of Ocoee was recognized as a municipality by the Florida Legislature in 1921, before officially becoming a city in May 1925.

The city was named after a river in Tennessee. Ocoee, in the Cherokee language, means “apricot vine,” which we now call the passion flower. It was originally settled following the end of the Civil War.

In the mid-1800s, the township initially had around 820 residents and first settled adjacent to Starke Lake — southeast of Lake Apopka — and the land purchased by Confederate Captain Bluford M. Sims, for America’s first citrus nursery, is what now comprises most of what is considered downtown Ocoee.

It also was during that time the first school was established in the township. In 1880, a three-sided hut located on Floral Street — which later would be replaced twice — is where the school was located. Mrs. E. D. Perkins was its first teacher.

Following the completion of the Florida Midland Railroad, in the 1880s, the small town started to boom as settlers came to take advantage of the available farmland and lucrative citrus groves.

Today, Ocoee’s identity has grown from just its agricultural hub roots into "The Center of Good Living."

The city's Lakeshore Center is the perfect place for events, such as festivals, business luncheons and weddings. It opened in 2014 and was expanded five years later to accommodate larger events.

In 2022, the city celebrated the opening of its new City Hall. The 46,000-square-foot building is part of the city's $44 million redevelopment plan to revitalize and reimagine its downtown core.

In recent years, the city also opened the Healthy West Orange Wellness Park and Action Sports Park, which includes facilities for skateboarders and BMXers. The 148-acre Ocoee Regional Sports Complex also is in the works.

Orange

County's thirdlargest city also is one of West Orange's shining gems.

WELCOME TO OCOEE

As mayor, I would like to welcome each and every one of you to our community. We are a welcoming city and a premier place to live, work and play. We continue to make key investments in our infrastructure. The much-needed widen-

SIGNATURE EVENTS

Ocoee Community Market. This market takes place on the first Thursday of every month at Bill Breeze Park.

Ocoee Easter Eggstravaganza. Children in Ocoee enjoy an egg hunt, games, crafts and more.

Ocoee Music Festival. This two-day event features national touring bands in multiple genres.

Fourth of July Block Party and Car Show. The event at Bill Breeze Park features a car show, a community market, a cornhole tournament, live music, free games and activities.

Jolly Jamboree and Tree Lighting. Enjoy the countdown to the tree lighting, a visit to Santa’s Village and welcome the magic of Christmas alongside neighbors, friends and family.

SERVICE WITH A SMILE

n Ocoee City Hall: 1 N. Bluford Ave., (407) 905-3100

n Cable/internet: Spectrum, (407) 291-2500; DIRECTV, (866) 906-2621; DISH, (844) 306-7067; AT&T, (866) 817-0776; CenturyLink, (877) 8629343; EarthLink, (844) 903-3107

n Power/electric: Duke Energy, (800) 700-8744

n Fire: City of Ocoee Fire/ Rescue, (407) 905-3140

n Police: Ocoee Police Department,(407) 9053160

n Solid waste: (407) 905-3170

n Utilities (water, sewer): (407) 905-3159

ing of Clarke Road to four lanes is scheduled to be completed in the next few months. Improvements and upgrades are being made to water and sanitation lines in the city. Sidewalks are being repaired to make them safe for our residents when walk-

ing in their neighborhoods. Work has started on Oakland Avenue, the next phase of the downtown revitalization. Drainage and sidewalks are being installed, as are landscaped medians.

Unity Park, a five-acre passive nature park, now is open. It has a walking path, boardwalk, 100% native plants and a filtration

LOCAL LEADERS

Mayor Rusty Johnson

Johnson has been a resident of Ocoee for 60 years and has served in public office since 1986. He served in the U.S. Army and is a Vietnam veteran. Johnson’s term runs until 2027. This is his final term as mayor due to term limits. His favorite Ocoee restaurant is BikeLife Cafe, and he enjoys the outdoors at Central Park and, of course, the annual Ocoee Music Festival.

Mayor Pro-Tem, District 1

pond that cleans stormwater before it flows into Starke Lake. It is my deepest desire to see Ocoee prosper and grow to its fullest potential. I invite prospective residents and businesses to visit us and see for yourself why Ocoee is truly the “Center of Good Living.”

— Mayor Rusty Johnson

Commissioner Scott Kennedy

Kennedy has been a resident of Ocoee since 2004. He served previously as the vice chair of Ocoee’s Planning and Zoning Commission. Kennedy and his wife, Mellita Kennedy, have been residents of Ocoee since 2004. He was elected to the Ocoee City Commission in 2023, and his term ends in 2027.

Commissioner Rosemary Wilsen

Wilsen has been a resident of Ocoee since 1997. Wilsen’s current term runs until 2025. "My favorite restaurant in Ocoee is one that opened recently, La Hacienda, with dessert at Twistee Treat," she said. She also enjoys Ocoee's outdoor spaces, especially Bill Breeze Park and Starke Lake.

District 3 Commissioner Richard Firstner

Firstner has been a resident of Ocoee for 20 years. He served as the city’s fire chief for 14 years, retiring in 2009 after 35 years of working in public safety. Firstner’s term is from 2023-2027.

District 4 Commissioner George Oliver III

Oliver has been a resident of Ocoee for more than 22 years and served in the U.S. Navy. He is the first black commissioner elected to the District 4 seat. Oliver’s term runs until 2025. Oliver cites RusTeak and Carlo's Diner as his restaurant recommendations.

City Manager Craig Shadrix

The Ocoee City Commission in March 2024 appointed Shadrix to succeed retiring City Manager Robert Frank. He has served as the city of Ocoee’s assistant city manager for the past 14 years and has worked with the city since 2008. Prior to his time with Ocoee, he served as the regional planning manager for Glatting Jackson.

NOTABLE NAMES

n Grant Riller is a professional basketball player and has his No. 11 jersey retired at Ocoee High School.

n Gen. William Temple Withers, who served in the Confederacy, moved to Ocoee in the late 1800s and built the famed Withers-Maguire House. The house was sold to David O. Maguire, father of Fred and Raymer Maguire, the city’s first mayor and city attorney.

n Fred Maguire was the first president of the Bank of Ocoee, first mayor of Ocoee and a citrus farmer.

n Hoyle Pounds eventually moved his business to Winter Garden, but originally, the Pounds Motor Company operated in Ocoee from 1914-20.

n Tyranus Judson "T.J." Minor was a merchant and grove owner in the 1870s. The Great Freeze destroyed his businesses, but he stayed to rebuild and eventually became postmaster.

n Capt. Bluford M. Sims was a native of Tennessee who served in the Confederacy. He purchased a piece of land from Dr. J. D. Starke and was able to establish the first citrus nursery in the United States. He served as contractor for the first framed court house in Orlando.

Date Night

Price Point: $50

FOGATA STREET TACOS

Tacos El Campechano, $15

WEST ORANGE CINEMA

Two matinee tickets, two small popcorns, two sodas, $18.75

ANDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD

Stolen Brownie Sundae, $8.19

chips and salsa, and a side of rice and beans.

Tip: From 2 to 5 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, the eatery o ers a variety of happy hour specials. We recommend Monday’s $5 margaritas. If you can’t make it for any happy hour slot, we’d recommend the Piña Colada ($4.95 for non-alcoholic, $7.95 with coconut rum) as a nice upgrade to your meal.

OCOEE

For a great date, full of quality eats and fun activities on a budget, look no further than Ocoee — the "Center of Good Living." You can enjoy nearly a full day of food and fun with your loved one for less than $50!

To kick o the date, we recommend a lunch at Fogata Street Tacos. We suggest sharing the Tacos El Campechano combo, which comes with three tacos lled with chorizo, your choice of steak or chicken, onions and grilled cheese. The lling entrée is served with

Following lunch, take in a movie matinee at West Orange Cinema. This Ocoee staple o ers $7 tickets before 5 p.m. Bonus tip, save a bit more if you go on a Tuesday ($5.50). Don’t forget the popcorn and drink, a small of both will be an added $4.75. It’s worth it. After all, what’s a movie without popcorn and drink?

With three delicious ice creameries — West Orange Creamery and Soda Fountain; Twistee Treat; and the new guy on the block, Andy’s Frozen Custard — located within walking distance, the natural way to nish o your date is to make a stop at one of the three. We recommend giving Andy’s a shot by strolling through the drive-thru and sharing a large Stolen Brownie Sundae — lled with vanilla frozen custard and freshly baked brownie covered with hot fudge, roasted pecans and don’t

forget the cherries on top ($8.19). Don't forget to ask for two spoons.

Once you’ve got your frozen custard, head less than a mile down the road — either State Road 50 or Old Winter Garden Road — to share that massive treat at Healthy West Orange Wellness Park for the cost of $0.

And after you’re done with dessert, take a leisurely half-mile stroll, hand-in-hand, around the water.

Other nearby parks: Central Park is 2.8 miles away from Andy’s Frozen Custard, Bill Breeze Park is two miles away, and Unity Park is just 1.9 miles away.

— SAM ALBUQUERQUE

Lakeside Lifestyle

Although the quaint town of Windermere proper spans only 2.2 square miles, its history and, indeed, its reputation, loom much larger.

Centuries before the town of Windermere was incorporated, the Timucua Indians inhabited the land until the 1500s.

After Florida became the 27th state of the Union in 1845, the U.S. government gave 160 acres of land to anyone willing to cultivate five acres and build a cabin.

The town was founded in 1887 when two Englishmen, the Rev. Joseph Hill Scott and his son, Dr. Stanley Scott, started their settlement. Dr. Scott built his home on the shores of Lake Butler, and most believe he named the town after England’s famous Lake Windermere.

Another English native, John Dawe, built the Florida Midland Railroad through the community in 1889. A post office opened in 1888, closed in 1901 and reopened in

1911. The town was established as a residential development in 1889, but it wasn’t until 1925 that it was incorporated by Cal Palmer, J. Howard Johnson and Howard Lyon. The first mayor was John Jaquith, who served from 1925 to 1927. Palmer served as the second mayor, from 1928 to 1929. Johnson was the fifth, and Lyon was the seventh. In fact, Palmer’s office building — which was completed in 1911 — still stands today, as does the historic 1887 Schoolhouse, which was the first school in town.

Johnson and Palmer founded the Windermere Improvement Company in 1910 and together formed the town’s foundation. In 1922, settlers formed a Chamber of Commerce, and the Windermere Improvement Company gave land to the Womans’ Club and Union Church.

Over the years, the town began to take shape. New buildings — including a clubhouse, more school rooms, a library and a renovated Town

Hall — were added. In 2022, the town celebrated the opening of its new town facilities buildings, which includes new buildings for the police, administrative and public works departments.

And most recently, construction has begun on the Windermere Downtown Property Planned Unit Development at the corner of Main Street and East Sixth Avenue.

Along with an abundance of trees, one of the town’s hallmarks is its location along the Butler Chain of Lakes. The Butler Chain has more than 5,000 acres in surface water among the 13 lakes: Down (900 acres), Little Lake Down (23 acres), Wauseon Bay (100 acres), Butler (1,600 acres), Louise (140 acres), Isleworth (86 acres), Blanche (21 acres), Chase (135 acres), TibetButler (1,200 acres), Sheen (656 acres), Pocket (126 acres), Fish (23 acres) and a 14-acre unnamed lake. The system also has a total of 32 navigable canals.

SIGNATURE EVENTS

Windermere Wine & Dine. Tickets have been known to sell out in mere hours for this annual celebration of food and wine.

Operation Easter Bunny. The Windermere Police Department and Windermere Mayor Jim O'Brien escort the Easter Bunny through town distributing Easter bags to children along the way.

Fourth of July Pancake Breakfast. Residents are invited to join town staff and volunteers for a patriotic breakfast.

Windermere Run Among the Lakes. Known as one of Florida's most beautiful and unique 5K and 10K routes, this run has participants trekking over the dirt roads of Windermere, under a canopy of century-old oaks and along several lakes.

Light Up Windermere. To kick off the holidays, the town typically combines its Food Truck Friday event with a tree-lighting event and holiday festivities.

SERVICE WITH A SMILE

n Town Hall: 614 Main St., (407) 876-2563

n Cable/internet: Spectrum, (407) 291-2500; DIRECTV, (866) 906-2621; DISH, (844) 306-7067; AT&T, (866) 817-0776; CenturyLink, (877) 862-9343; EarthLink, (844) 903-3107

n Power/electric: Duke Energy, (800) 700-8744

n Fire: Ocoee Fire Department, (407) 905-3129

n Police: Windermere Police Department, (407) 876-3757

n Trash: Waste Pro, (407) 774-0800

n Utilities (water/sewer): Windermere doesn’t provide water or sewage services. Residents either have personal wells/septic tanks or are hooked up to Orange County Utilities, (407) 8365515.

LOCAL LEADERS

Mayor Jim O’Brien

O’Brien is serving his third term as mayor for the town and previously served as a Town Council member. O’Brien was elected mayor in 2019, replacing outgoing longtime Mayor Gary Bruhn.

Town Council Member Mandy David David is serving her second term for the town of Windermere. As a child, she loved going to the Tome’s house and swimming in the lake. She would love to go back in time to when the train ran through the town and experience what everything was like back then in person.

Town Council Member Tony Davit

Davit is serving his second term on the council. His fondest memory of Windermere is also his first. "I had just gotten to the Orlando area, and we were looking for the right place to live," he said. "We drove through downtown, and my wife and I both turned to each other and said, ‘We’re moving here!’"

Town Council Member Tom Stroup Stroup is serving his first term for the town of Windermere. "My fondest memories of Windermere include every time I see a young couple walking down the street pushing a baby stroller and talking to the neighbors standing in the middle of the dirt roads," he said.

Town Council Member Brandi Haines

Haines is serving her first term for the town. Her fondest memory is bringing home her newborn daughter from the hospital to her new home in Windermere. One of her favorite hidden gems in the town is Town Square, which brings the community together for a variety of activities.

Mayor Pro-Tem, Town Council Member Loren “Andy” Williams Williams is serving his third term for the town and is the mayor pro-tem. His fondest memories in town include spending time on the lakes, fishing, skiing and hanging out with friends. "We would ski after school almost every day once the water warmed up in the spring," he said.

Town Manager Robert Smith Smith has served as town manager since 2011. He said the most valuable hidden gem in Windermere is the residents and the strong sense of community they foster. "The community consistently comes together in times of need, whether it be in response to natural disasters or to support neighbors in need," he said.

WELCOME TO WINDERMERE

As our town prepares to celebrate our centennial anniversary, we strive to be an active, familyoriented small town looking to the future with a keen respect for the past.

Windermere is a special place, where white sand streets are lined by oak trees and surrounded by the beauty of the Butler Chain of Lakes.

We are a wonderful place to raise your family, with abundant parks and recreational opportunities — including tennis, volleyball, pickleball, basketball, an exercise trail, playgrounds, a kayak launch and a private boat launch on the Butler Chain of Lakes.

Our Town Square is home to Town Hall and several popular events and seasonal festivals.

Downtown, you will find Main Street is a two-lane road with pedestrian-friendly roundabouts and lined by our Town Hall, Town Administrative Center, and locally owned and operated retail shops. This year will mark a new chapter for our downtown, as new retail space construction is underway with completion expected in 2025.

Stop in and visit. I am certain you will see and feel that what makes Windermere special is the people who give back to our town, so it remains a place our children will want to live in the future.

— Mayor Jim O’Brien

NOTABLE NAMES

n Windermere resident Rollie Allen, 89, died Jan. 7, 2023. She lived in the town since 1971 and was the wife of Bob Allen, the former Disney vice president. Following his passing, Rollie Allen blazed her own trail and put her own name on many local boards and affiliations.

n This year, the town honored the 10-year anniversary of the passing of Windermere Police Officer Robbie German, 31, who was killed in the line of duty March 22, 2014. German joined the WPD in 2008.

Among the Oaks OAKLAND

Aday spent in the Town of Oakland will take you back in time to the old, quaint Florida of yesterday. Because of growth in Orange County, maintaining Oakland’s small-town character as “Nestled Among the Oaks” has been one of its most difficult challenges – and greatest accomplishments.

Despite residential and retail growth in recent years, Oakland remains a quaint, unhurried community not unlike it was in 1887, when the town was incorporated. Tree-lined roads are nostalgic reminders of an era when life was simple and everyone knew their neighbors.

The town of Oakland originally housed several Indian trading posts and villages before becoming a thriving town with businesses and an opera house. At one time, the town was the social and industrial hub of West Orange — with railroad tracks that carried goods to and from other areas.

James Gamble Speer is credited for being the first settler. He bought a large piece of land between lakes Apopka and Johns in 1857 — 30 years before the town incorporated.

Speer Park, at the northwest corner of Tubb Street and Briley Avenue, is named for this pioneer. Peter A. Demens was the first mayor.

Back in Speer’s time, Oakland was considered a loosely designated area between the two lakes stretching two to three miles to the east and west. Today, Oakland has more than 6,000 residents living, playing, working and going to school within its 2.4 square miles.

Oakland’s popularity increased when the railroad system was extended in the late 1880s. But a devastating fire about a decade later wiped out the business district, and an 1895 freeze destroyed all of the citrus groves. The railroad left because of a decline in business, and the town’s economy took a major downturn.

After the town settled back into a rural lifestyle following the freeze and fire, residents — many of them descendants of the first settlers — once again enjoyed the quiet atmosphere and small-town neighborliness that was its humble beginnings.

The town is now in its 21st year as a Tree City USA. It is home to the popular Healthy West Orange Arts and Heritage Center and a growing Thursday farmers market. A roundabout was constructed at the west end of Oakland Avenue to ease traffic congestion in the booming area.

Old Florida still exists — nestled among the trees in the town of Oakland.

WELCOME TO OAKLAND

With its unique character and undeniable beauty, the town of Oakland extends a warm welcome to all who live, visit, work and play within its boundaries.

Established in 1887, Oakland was once the bustling hub of Orange County. Now a small town of just over two square miles, Oakland still boasts first-class amenities. The Oakland Nature Preserve is a hidden gem, offering 150 acres of town-owned preserved land for environmental education and ecotourism activities. Oakland is also proud of the town-run Oakland Avenue Charter School. The A-rated elementary school offers an intimate, hands-on educational experience to our young residents, preparing them for the future.

The center of town is home to the Healthy West Orange Heritage & Arts Center, our cultural hub committed to providing residents and visitors with artistic and health-and-wellness programming.

The town is committed to preserving the distinctive charm and character that makes our community truly special, while simultaneously driving progress. By fostering connections among neighbors, bolstering our commercial business landscape and implementing forwardthinking initiatives, Oakland has a future brimming with opportunity.

— Mayor Shane Taylor

SERVICE WITH A SMILE

Oakland Town Hall: 230 N. Tubb St., (407) 656-1117

Cable/internet: DIRECTV, (800) 531-5000; DISH Network, (800) 9637868; Spectrum, (407) 2912500; CenturyLink, (888) 273-5968

Power/electric: Duke Energy, (407) 629-1010

Fire: Orange County Fire Rescue Department Station 37, (407) 654-1616

Police: Oakland Police Department, (407) 656-9797

Trash: Waste Management, (407) 464-0664

Utilities (water, sewer): Oakland Water Department (407) 656-1117, Ext. 2100

SIGNATURE EVENTS

Celebration Among the Oaks. This celebration includes a helicopter egg drop, family activities, live music, and boutique art and craft vendors in VanderLey Park.

Oakland Heritage Day. The festival celebrates Oakland’s small-town charm, history,

LOCAL LEADERS

Mayor Shane Taylor

nature, wellness, and arts with a day of live music, food trucks, fine arts and crafts and more.

Santa’s Lane. In early December, the Oakland Town Center transforms into Santa’s Lane, bringing the North Pole to Oakland.

Although Taylor is in his first term as Oakland's mayor, he is a longtime resident and knows the perfect spot for a sunset photo." You can’t beat Jake Voss Pier on Lake Apopka for an amazing sunset," he said."The sun sinking on Lake Apopka with all of its raw nature is simply a breathtaking sight."

Seat 1 Commissioner Rick Polland

Polland has been an Oakland resident since 2000 and joined the Town Commission in 2013. If he could travel back in time, he'd go back to see "the booming days of Oakland, when Oakland was the hot spot of Orange County and had the railroad going through it," he said.

Seat 2 Commissioner/Vice Mayor Mike Satterfield

Satterfield was elected to the commission in 1998. He has two favorite memories of the town. "My fondest memory is a split between the first day of school at Oakland Avenue Charter School, 20 years ago, and the first walk on the completed boardwalk at the Oakland Nature Preserve," he said.

Seat 3 Commissioner Sal Ramos

Ramos was elected in 2015 as a town commissioner, and his favorite town memory is intertwined with his family. "Going to Oakland Heritage Day at Speer Park in the early 2000s," he said. "My first son was just a 1-year-old, and we had an old quilt that we laid on the floor under the trees. Being joined by my wife and late mother was so special to me. My mother would say that this was such an extraordinary town, and I didn’t see how great a treasure that moment was."

Seat 4 Commissioner Joseph McMullen

McMullen has served the town in Seat 4 since 2006. His favorite weekend activity is simple: "Enjoying a quiet walk on the West Orange Trail between Oakland and Winter Garden," he said. His favorite town event is Santa's Lane. "Seeing all the kids smile and the parents’ warm hearts," he said. "I love watching adults even participating and sitting on Santa’s lap!"

Town Manager Andy Stewart

A native Floridian, Stewart graduated from the University of Central Florida with a degree in business administration and a master’s degree in public administration. He also is certified in emergency management.

NOTABLE NAMES

n A plaque outside the media center at Oakland Avenue Charter School is dedicated to Francine Postell, who lived most of her life in Oakland, served two years on the Town Commission and was an educator for 21 years.

n Kathy Stark recently retired from the Oakland Town Commission after 10 years as a commissioner and 20 years as mayor. She fiercely led the small town of Oakland for decades, determined to vote in the best interests of the residents she was elected to serve.

n In 1946, World War II veteran William V. Nixon came to town to be an educator at Oakland’s black school. After retiring from teaching, he became Oakland’s first black town commissioner in 1971. “The Professor” served the town of Oakland for 18 years as commissioner and vice mayor.

n Grover Cleveland Tubb was appointed deputy clerk in 1928. He wore many hats in Oakland government: clerk, water department, parks department, sanitation, volunteer fire chief, and tax collector. He served more than 50 years and is honored with a fountain in the town center.

n Helen “Dewey” Vick grew up in the oldest house in Oakland (c.1860). She was the first female mayor of Oakland and served three terms in the 1940s.

n Judge James Gamble Speer settled in Oakland in 1857 and became the largest landowner in Central Florida. In 1886, Speer negotiated the arrival of the Orange Belt Railway by giving 180 acres of land. His legacy lives on with Oakland’s Speer Park.

n Peter A. Demens (Piotr Alexewitch Dementief) established the Orange Belt Railway Headquarters here in 1886, paving the way for a thriving downtown with a hotel, hospital, opera house, grocery store, hardware store and more. He was elected the first mayor of Oakland in 1887.

DR. PHILLIPS A Household Namesake

Known for its world-class dining and amazing golfing — all in the shadows of the world’s top tourism destinations — Dr. Phillips has grown tremendously since its namesake Dr. Philip Phillips made a trip in 1902 to Central Florida.

Originally, Phillips came to the area to become a cattle baron but instead chose to invest in the area’s orange groves. Thanks to that decision, he invented flash pasteurization, which lengthened the shelf life of many products, including orange juice.

Phillips was a philanthropist who helped create the Dr. Phillips Memorial Hospital, donated millions of dollars to charities and social services and, in 1953, established the Dr. P. Phillips Foundation to help with the charitable needs of Central Florida.

Among his plans, Phillips wanted to create a community centered around his orange groves, so he hired a planner — who created a blueprint for the Dr. Phillips area — and when he sold his citrus interest in 1954, he kept his undeveloped land in Southwest Orange.

After his death in 1959, his son, Howard Phillips, carried out his father’s wishes for an ideal community, developing an 18-square-mile master plan, which became Central Florida’s first master-planned community. The idea was to produce a self-contained, self-sustaining, agriculturally oriented township with a small post office, fire station and grocery stores called Dr. Phillips.

WELCOME TO DR. PHILLIPS

Situated between the scenic Butler Chain of Lakes and Orlando’s bustling tourism corridor, Dr. Phillips remains an exceptional place to live, work and play.

Beyond the well-known eateries and entertainment options, Dr. Phillips is home to dozens of beautiful neighborhoods, a dynamic community park, quality schools, a worldclass YMCA and a brand-new Orange County ballfield complex.

The legacy of the eponymous Dr. P. Phillips lives on with his nonprofit foundation, which is a part of Dr. Phillips Charities. We have had the pleasure of working with this foundation, along with the Dr. Phillips Rotary Club, to bring more than 100 freshly planted trees to roadway medians in the Dr. Phillips area.

This is a community that takes pride in its efforts to cultivate an enriching environment for its residents.

— District 1 Orange County Commissioner Nicole Wilson

SIGNATURE EVENTS

Arnold Palmer Invitational. The PGA Tour’s API is undoubtedly Dr. Phillips’ signature event. Played each March at Bay Hill Club and Lodge, this tournament brings worldwide attention — as well as economic boosts — to the Southwest Orange community.

A Taste of Dr. Phillips. This event, held annually in November, is a key event for the Rotary Club of Dr. Phillips Foundation. This feast for the palate highlights the restaurants from the community’s famed Restaurant Row.

NOTABLE NAME

LOCAL LEADERS

Dr. P. Phillips Foundation

Chairman Terry Prather

Orange County District 1

Commissioner Nicole Wilson

Dr. Phillips sits within unincorporated Orange County and is represented on the Orange County Board of County Commissioners by Nicole Wilson. Email her at district1@ocfl.net.

Terry Prather has served as chairman of the Dr. P. Phillips Foundation board since 2023. He formerly served as the president of SeaWorld Orlando and was a founding board member of LIFT Orlando — a nonprofit focused on neighborhood revitalization in the area surrounding Camping World Stadium.

n Dr. Philip Phillips: originally from Tennessee, Dr. Phillips arrived to the Central Florida area in 1902 and came up with the idea of “flash” pasteurization, helping increase the shelf life of many products we use in our daily lives. Dr. Phillips also was a great philanthropist, helping with the creation of the Dr. Phillips Memorial Hospital. Also, he donated millions of dollars to charities and social services. The Dr. P. Phillips Foundation was established in 1953.

SERVICE WITH A SMILE

n Orange County Board of County Commissioners — 201 S. Rosalind Ave., Orlando, (407) 836-5918

n Cable/internet: Spectrum, (407) 2912500; DIRECTV, (866) 906-2621; DISH, (844) 306-7067; AT&T, (866) 817-0776; CenturyLink, (877) 862-9343; EarthLink, (844) 903-3107

n Power/electric: Duke Energy, (800) 700-8744

n Fire: Orange County Fire Station 31, (407) 737-2444

n Police: Orlando Police Department, (407) 246-2470

n Solid waste: (407) 836-6601

n Utilities (water, sewer): (407) 836-5515

Date Night DR. PHILLIPS

Price Point: $350

The Dr. Phillips area is a location many Central Florida locals know for its famous Restaurant Row, the Arnold Palmer Invitational and proximity to Universal Orlando.

And for those who want to spare no expense, Dr. Phillips is the ideal choice to enjoy an elevated night out.

To start, we recommend a walk around the Dellagio Town Center. Situated on Restaurant Row, the center features more than 130,000 square feet of dining and entertainment in a European-inspired development reminiscent of Italy. At the center of the town center is a signature fountain inspired by the famous Place de la Concorde and its lake.

When ready for drinks and dinner, we suggest Dragonfly Robata & Sushi, 7972 Via Dellagio Way, Orlando. For drinks, we recommend the sake sampler ($32), which includes four samples of seasonal sake, perfect for beginners. Then, switch to a cocktail, such as the Momo-chan ($15),

DRAGONFLY

ROBATA & SUSHI

n Sake sampler, $32

n Momo-chan, $15

n Masa’s Old Fashioned, $17

n Grilled Octopus, $22

n Smoky Dragon Roll, $19 n Tonbo, $125

THE MELTING POT

n Chocolate Explosion with upgraded dippers, $48

THEATRE SOUTH PLAYHOUSE

n Tickets, $25 to $42 apiece

with ketel peach-orange blossom, hibiscus, yuzu, pineapple, mint and a sparkling wine float, or the Masa’s Old Fashioned ($17), with mars iwai whisky, boston bittahs, burlesque bitters and demerara.

For appetizers, try the Grilled Octopus ($22) and the Smoky Dragon Roll ($19), which contains salmon, krab delight, temp flakes, cucumber, avocado, torched tuna, pickled red onion, lemon zest, kobachi and eel sauce.

For an entrée, our favorite choice is the Tonbo ($125), which includes a 10-piece nigiri, 21-piece sashimi and two maki rolls.

For a sweet treat following your meal, The Melting Pot, 7549 W. Sand Lake Road, Orlando, provides the perfect opportunity and experience. We recommend the Chocolate Explosion for your celebratory night out, which includes the choice of Raspberry Red Velvet Dark Chocolate Fondue or Birthday Cake White Chocolate Fondue, each costing $38 and serving two people.

To finish off the night, we recommended seeing a show at Theatre South Playhouse, 7601 Della Drive, Suite 15, Orlando. Founded in 2009, Executive Director Hillary Brook started Theatre South Orlando out of a small office at the Rosen JCC with a philosophy that when students are inspired by working with diverse professional artists, anything is possible.

Today, Theatre South has evolved into a professional theater, an academic conservatory and a community center. Ticket prices vary.

— ANNABELLE SIKES

Celebrate with event catering and decorating services from Gertrude’s Kitchen. We create a custom menu for groups of any size, whether it’s a wedding, corporate event, backyard BBQ or a big party. Southern foods, desserts and more are what’s on the menu. Let us cater your next event! We are a one stop shop!

Be sure to allow plenty of time for booking!

Place your order at gertrudeskitchenllc.com or email gertrudeskitchenllc@gmail.com

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GOTHA

Small-Town Charm SIGNATURE EVENTS

Gotha is a charming and historical rural settlement located between Windermere and Dr. Phillips — bound by Old Winter Garden Road, Windy Ridge Road, South Apopka-Vineland Road and Maguire Road.

Gotha was established in 1885, when Henry A. Hempel, a German native, came to the area, created a community and named it after his homeland of Gotha, Germany. His name graces the main street in the unincorporated community — Hempel Avenue.

Hempel first came to

NOTABLE NAMES

Central Florida in 1879 and began purchasing land. After he had amassed 1,000 acres, he created a town plat — although the town was never incorporated. Hempel established a sawmill to generate lumber, which was used to construct many of the community's businesses: a general store — today’s Yellow Dog Eats restaurant — a post office, school, community hall and more. The sawmill also provided orange crates for the booming citrus industry. In its heyday, Gotha was thriving with schools, churches, a railroad, social

hall and the sawmill.

If you love Florida ornamental horticulture, including caladiums, palms, bamboos, amaryllis and crinum lilies, you can thank horticulturist and naturalist Henry Nehrling, who purchased his property in Gotha to create tropical gardens for research. Today, the site is a historic landmark. Nehrling Gardens opens its doors and gardens to visitors who are interested in botanical gardens, environmental conservation and historic preservation.

n Henry A. Hempel was the German native who founded Gotha and named it after his homeland.

n Charles Kouene was a major player in the settling of Gotha. His creation of the American Turner Society in 1885 was perhaps the single greatest influence on the Gotha colony's early development.

n Bob Ross was a famous landscape artist, art instructor and television host known for his serene scenes and his “happy little trees.”

Owl Prowl — Art & Wine Wander. This Nehrling Gardens event will delight both your eyes and taste buds. Guests can enjoy sampling selections of beer, wine and food while they wander among local artists painting in the gardens, enjoy live music and take the opportunity to learn about Nehrling's four Owl Ambassadors.

Holiday Amaryllis Festival. Nehrling Gardens' December event features beautiful and rare amaryllis bulbs for sale, as well as nature-themed vendors, food, music and crafts.

SERVICE WITH A SMILE

n Cable/internet: Spectrum, (407) 291-2500; DIRECTV, (866) 906-2621; DISH, (844) 306-7067; AT&T, (866) 817-0776; CenturyLink, (877) 8629343; EarthLink, (844) 903-3107

n Power/electric: Duke Energy, (800) 700-8744

n Fire: Orange County Fire Rescue, (407) 836-9000

n Police: Orange County Sheriff’s Office, (407) 254-7000

n Trash: Orange County Solid Waste, (407) 836-6601

n Utilities (water/sewer): Orange County Utilities, (407) 836-5515

LOCAL LEADER

This protected rural settlement has managed to maintain its beautiful, early 20th-century charm as Central Florida has grown around it. Pay a visit to the gorgeous Nehrling Gardens for an illuminating look at what history and conservation mean to this community.

— District 1 Orange County Commissioner Nicole Wilson

HEALTHY LIVING

ACTIVITIES & EXERCISE

Looking for something fun to do that will get your body moving? We've got the perfect list of local activities!

n Oakland Nature Preserve. Take the trail walk or stroll on the Healthy West Orange Boardwalk to get beautiful views of Lake Apopka.

n Take a class. Whether it’s yoga at Warrior One, dance at Studio K or one of the many offerings in our West Orange YMCAs, there are opportunities to try many different exercises with HWO's Carrot Champions. From Jiu-Jitsu to personal training, our local experts have you covered.

n Healthy West Orange Wellness Park. This Ocoee park not only offers a half-mile walking loop but also exercise stations at which you can try out a bunch of movements.

HEALTHY CAN BE DELICIOUS, TOO!

There are many options to enjoy a healthy meal out in West Orange, but we suggest trying Crisp & Green, Pammie’s Sammies, Sizzlin' Greens and House Blend Café. Healthy West Orange Carrot App users can get discounts or deals to make the meal even sweeter!

Ahealthy lifestyle is all about making better choices — and in West Orange and Southwest Orange, there is an organization available to help residents do just that.

Healthy West Orange, an organization fueled by the Foundation for a Healthier West Orange, exists with the goal of making West Orange and Southwest Orange the healthiest communities in the nation. That commitment, coupled with the natural beauty of the area and abundance of resources, makes healthy choices and lifestyle changes possible — and even fun — for all.

MAKING TIME FOR MOVEMENT

Listen, we know everyone has a busy life, but any amount of time spent moving your body makes a difference! Here are three exercises you can even make work at the office, and more can be found through Healthy West Orange's website.

n Walking. Walking is easy and can be done anywhere. Walk around your office, take a fiveminute break and walk around the block. Just getting up and moving will help more than you know.

n Contained movements. Want something more contained? Get a resistance band and do simple strength training right at your desk.

n Jump rope. This might be our favorite form of fun! Grab a jump rope and start engaging those muscles.

OUTDOOR DATE IDEAS

Whether you're looking to relax with friends or spend some one-on-one time with your special someone, these options are a perfect way to take a break during the work day or to enjoy on the weekends.

n Picnic at Tucker Ranch: Tucker Ranch is a $32 million project that will bring a multitude of health and wellness offerings to residents in Winter Garden and beyond. The completed Phase 1 includes a pavilion, playground equipment, canoe/kayak launch and nature trails. Healthy West Orange even has a post on its website with top picnic spots in West Orange!

n Bike ride. Grab your bike (or rent one) and go for a casual ride on the West Orange Trail, a 22-milelong multi-use rail trail that passes through downtown Oakland, Winter Garden and Apopka, with most of its length built on old railroad alignments.

n Farmers market: Hit a local farmers market with your sweetie, then cook dinner together using your market finds. Winter Garden, Windermere, Ocoee, Dr. Phillips and Oakland all offer markets, and Healthy West Orange’s website features healthy recipes you can make together.

ABOUT HEALTHY WEST ORANGE

Alongside residents, businesses and other partners, Healthy West Orange collectively fuels the effort to build the healthiest community in the nation. The organization believes in more than just individual health — its team believes

in community wellness. That’s why Healthy West Orange provides essential tools and social connections to help residents eat well, stay active and enjoy life. Want to learn more? Visit healthywestorange.org.

Here’s the deal, home + auto

Craig

HERE WHEN YOU NEED IT

ADVENTHEALTH

WINTER GARDEN

2000 Fowler Grove Blvd., Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 614-0500

DETAILS: This facility includes an 80-bed hospital and emergency department. In 2024, AdventHealth Winter Garden announced plans for a $145 million expansion to the hospital. The 105,000-square-foot extension will add three floors to the hospital's patient tower and bring additional women's services needed to address the increasing demand for complex care within the community. The plans include the addition of 40 new progressive care unit beds, obstetrics and gynecology. One floor will be dedicated to labor and delivery. This area will include nine labor, delivery and recovery beds, 10 postpartum beds, two C-section operating rooms, and future space for a level two Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. The tower's expansion also will add space for operating rooms and a shell floor with capacity for 40 beds.

ADVENTHEALTH ER AT FLAMINGO CROSSINGS TOWN CENTER

13323 Hartzog Road, Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 550-0700

DETAILS: AdventHealth celebrated the opening of its new emergency room in May 2023 in Horizon West. The 19,000-square-foot facility is located at the Flamingo Crossings Town Center near the western gateway to Walt Disney World Resort. The ER has 24 private patient rooms; respiratory therapy; diagnostic imaging, including CT scans, X-ray and ultrasound; and a full-service laboratory.

ORLANDO HEALTH

—

DR. P. PHILLIPS HOSPITAL

9401 Turkey Lake Road, Orlando

PHONE: (407) 351-8500

DETAILS: Orlando Health’s Dr. P. Phillips Hospital is a full-service medical/surgical facility serving Southwest Orange. In 2023, the hospital received the American Heart Association's Get With The Guidelines — Stroke Gold Plus quality achievement award.

ORLANDO HEALTH — HEALTH CENTRAL HOSPITAL

10000 W. Colonial Drive, Ocoee PHONE: (407) 296-1000

DETAILS: Health Central Hospital has served West Orange County and surrounding communities for more than 60 years. It has nearly 1,500 employees and more than 500 doctors. Health Central was named a 2023 Top General Hospital by The Leapfrog Group, an independent nonprofit organization committed to driving quality, safety and transparency in the U.S. health system. Health Central is one of only seven hospitals in the state and the only hospital in the greater Orlando area to be named a Top General Hospital. In 2024, Orlando Health collaborated with the West Orange Healthcare District, the Foundation for a Healthier West Orange and Healthy West Orange to complete a mile-long walking path around the campus.

ORLANDO HEALTH — HORIZON WEST HOSPITAL

17000 Porter Road, Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 407-0000

DETAILS: Horizon West Hospital opened in January 2021. The sixstory, 214,000-square-foot facility features a 120-patient-bed capacity and integrates the 78,000-squarefoot emergency department and medical pavilion that began serving the community in 2018. In 2022, Maggie Bonko was named presented of the hospital. Horizon West Hospital offers all health care needs in the growing community. Patients can receive emergency and inpatient care from experts in multiple specialties, diagnostic services, and access to all of Orlando Health’s primary and specialty care providers.

10 to attend

1

WINDERMERE WINE & DINE

Windermere Town Hall, 520

Main St., Windermere

DETAILS: Windermere Wine & Dine is a night of sampling wines and gourmet foods, along with live music. In its history, this event has raised more than $1 million for a variety of local charities and organizations.

2

BIG ORANGE AWARDS

Typically held at one of the resorts at Walt Disney World

DETAILS: Each winter, the West Orange Chamber of Commerce celebrates the accomplishments and triumphs of some of the chamber’s most admired and inspirational members. The event includes a reception, dinner and a celebration of outstanding individuals and businesses in the West Orange community.

3

WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE AND MUSIC FESTIVAL

Downtown Winter Garden

DETAILS: This February event features 11 hours of live music on multiple stages set up in downtown Winter Garden.

4

LEGACY EVENTS FOR EDUCATION'S AND OBSERVER MEDIA GROUP'S

HAMLIN CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL

Hamlin Town Center, 14422

Shoreside Way, Winter Garden

DETAILS: This spring event features some of the best beers from the top craft breweries in Florida and beyond. Proceeds fund scholarships for local graduating high school seniors.

5

HORIZON WEST FEST

Hamlin Town Center, 14422

Shoreside Way, Winter Garden

DETAILS: This springtime celebration of all things Horizon West brings the community together for a day of fun in the sun, complete with kids’ activities, local vendors and businesses, food, and more.

6

OCOEE MUSIC FESTIVAL

Bill Breeze Park, 125 N. Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee

DETAILS: The springtime Ocoee Music Festival is dedicated to celebrating Ocoee’s small-town traditions with music, community, small businesses and fun. In 2024, the festival featured a rock night followed by a country night.

7

BEST FEST — THE TASTE OF WEST ORANGE

Bill Breeze Park, 125 N. Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee

DETAILS: The West Orange Chamber of Commerce hosts this taste fest. Sample food offerings from local restaurants, bars, caterers and breweries.

8SPRING FEVER IN THE GARDEN

Downtown Winter Garden

DETAILS: This spring event is one of Florida’s best plant, flower and garden festivals. It also offers live entertainment, food, a Kids Zone and a sidewalk chalk art contest.

9

AMERICAN LEGION POST 63 CHALLENGE 22 WALK AND PICNIC

Downtown Winter Garden

DETAILS: American Legion Post 63 hosts its Challenge 22 Walk and Picnic each fall to raise money and awareness to help eliminate suicide among veterans with post-traumatic stress.

10

WINTER GARDEN

CHRISTMAS PARADE

Downtown Winter Garden

DETAILS: There are a plethora of Christmas events in West Orange and Southwest Orange. Winter Garden's annual Christmas Parade is a can't-miss. Enjoy an oldfashioned parade with floats, music, candy and, of course, Santa's arrival.

The mission of the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation is to preserve the heritage and architecture of West Orange County, while creating new cultural experiences. To accomplish this mission, we operate three locations in the heart of Winter Garden: the Heritage Museum, the Central Florida Railroad Museum, and the History Research, Education, and Visitors’ Center located in the Healthy West Orange Heritage and Cultural Center.

THINGS TO DO:

HERITAGE FOOD TOURS

Florida Railroad Museum

HELLER HALL - Beautiful rental facility in the heart of Winter Garden’s Downtown Historic District

Enjoy a taste of Winter Garden! We offer Happy Hour Tours and Saturday Brunch Tours, plus select Early Bird Happy Hour Tours on Thursdays. NEW: Holiday Lights Combo Golf Cart and Walking Tours in October and December.

Eat up, enjoy our downtown, and experience history! Check wghf.org for dates and to register online.

THE HISTORY HUNT RETURNS! PICK UP YOUR MAP FOR $2.00 AT THE WGHF OFFICE. IT’S FUN FOR ALL AGES!

THE CENTRAL FLORIDA RAILROAD MUSEUM:

The Museum hosts monthly meetings and events, including the popular Lego Day every October. Other events include quarterly guest presentations, a downtown history walking tour, Community Day with visiting museums, clubs and organizations, group tours, special activities and trips. The museum features rotating exhibits every six months that highlight the importance and historic significance of railroads and rail travel in the Untied States.

HERITAGE MUSEUM SCHEDULED SPEAKERS:

July 18 - The Historic East Winter Garden Neighborhood: A forum for gathering oral histories.

August 16 - John Jackson- Citrus: The Golden Years

September 19 - Tom Tart - Florida WWII Heroes

October 18 - Jim Crescitelli’s History of the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation and West Orange County

November 21 - The Chase Brothers & Company - The Making of the Sunniland Dynasty

December 19 - Mike Forrester - Winter Garden Now and Then: A Photo Tour of Our Community

January 16 - David Morton - Motion Picture Paradise: A History of Florida’s Film and Television Industry

Healthy West Orange Heritage & Cultural Center

Heritage Museum

PLUGGED IN

The best way to get involved in your community is to join a local civic club. West Orange and Southwest Orange are home to many organizations that work hard to improve the lives of others and the community as a whole.

DR. PHILLIPS

Rotary Club of Dr. Phillips P.O. Box 1381, Windermere PHONE: (407) 325-5483

WEBSITE: drphillipsrotary.com

SIGNATURE EVENTS: A Taste of Dr. Phillips, Wine & Dine on Nine, Birdies and BBQ

GOTHA

The Henry Nehrling Society 2267 Hempel Ave., Gotha PHONE: (407) 445-9977

WEBSITE: nehrlinggardens.org

SIGNATURE EVENTS: Owl Prowl — Art & Wine Wander, Holiday Amaryllis Festival

HORIZON WEST

American Legion Post 419 939 Shadowmoss Drive, Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 494-4160

SIGNATURE EVENT: Veterans Day Walk/Ruck

Kiwanis Club of Horizon West/Windermere PHONE: (407) 744-1205

WEBSITE: kiwanis.org

Legacy Events for Education

WEBSITE: legacyeventsfored.org

EMAIL: davidterry@legacyevents fored.org

SIGNATURE EVENTS: Central Florida Chili Cookoff, Hamlin Craft Beer Festival

Rotary Club of Horizon West 16106 Marsh Road, Suite 104, Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 451-9738

WEBSITE: horizonwestrotary.org

OCOEE

GFWC Woman’s Club of Ocoee 4 N. Lakewood Drive P.O. Box 953, Ocoee PHONE: (407) 656-7115

WEBSITE: womansclubofocoee.org

SIGNATURE EVENT: Birthday Luncheon and Fashion Show

Ocoee Lions Club 108 Taylor St., Ocoee

PHONE: (321) 247-7441

WEBSITE: ocoeelionsclub.com

SIGNATURE EVENT: Asylum Haunted Hospital

SOUTHWEST ORANGE

Rotary Club of Lake Buena Vista

PHONE: (407) 780-6422

WEBSITE: rotarylbv.org

SIGNATURE EVENT: Charity Golf Challenge

WINDERMERE

Windermere Garden Club

P.O. Box 502, Windermere

PHONE: (407) 876-1127

WEBSITE: windermeregardenclub.org

Windermere Rotary Club

WEBSITE: windermererotary.org

SIGNATURE EVENT: Lobster and Laughs

WINTER GARDEN

American Legion Post 63

271 W. Plant St., Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 656-6361

WEBSITE: legionflpost63.org

SIGNATURE EVENT: Challenge 22 Walk and Picnic

Bloom & Grow Garden Society

800 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden

WEBSITE: bloomandgrow.club

SIGNATURE EVENT: Spring Fever in the Garden

Rotary Club of Winter Garden

P.O. Box 770096, Winter Garden

WEBSITE: rotaryclubofwintergarden.org

SIGNATURE EVENTS: Broadway & Beyond, Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament

West Orange Junior Service League

P.O. Box 770267, Winter Garden

WEBSITE: wojsl.com

SIGNATURE EVENT: Winter Garden Golf Cart Parade

West Orange Women

WEBSITE: westorangewomen.com

CONTACT: Alice Bergeson, alicedberg@gmail.com

Winter Garden Masonic Lodge 165 F&AM

230 W. Bay St., Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 614-7380

WEBSITE: wintergardenmasoniclodge.org

SIGNATURE EVENT: All-American Kids Parade on July 4

MAP KEY

city and town boundries

Winter Garden Windermere

Horizon West Doctor Phillips Bay Lake

Oakland Ocoee Gotha Bay Hill

locations key

1. OAKLAND TOWN HALL // 230 N. Tubb St., Oakland

WINTER GARDEN CITY HALL // 300 W. Plant St., Winter Garden

OCOEE CITY HALL // 150 N. Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee

WINDERMERE TOWN HALL // 520 Main St., Windermere

OBSERVER MEDIA GROUP // 661 Garden Commerce Parkway, Suite 180, Winter Garden

ROPER YMCA FAMILY CENTER //100 Windermere Road, Winter Garden

DR. P. PHILLIPS YMCA FAMILY CENTER //7000 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Orlando

LAKE APOPKA NATURAL GAS DIRSTRICT // 1320 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Winter Garden

WEST ORANGE HEALTHCARE DISTRICT // 1200 E. Plant St., Suite 200, Winter Garden

COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTERS // 13275 W Colonial Drive, Winter Garden

COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTERS // 2140 N Don Wickham Drive, Clermont

COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTERS // 840 Mercy Drive, Orlando

HAMLIN TOWN CENTER // 14422 Shoreside Way, Winter Garden

MATTHEW’S HOPE CHEST STORE & BOUTIQUE //1027 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden

MATTHEW’S HOPE FIRM FOUNDATION PRESCHOOL // 740 Ninth St., Winter Garden

MATTHEW’S HOPE MINISTIRES // 611 Business Park Blvd., Suite 101, Winter Garden

ARNOLD PALMER’S BAY HILL & LODGE // 9000 Bay Hill Blvd., Orlando

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS ORLANDO // 6000 Universal Blvd., Orlando

SEAWORLD ORLANDO // 7007 Sea World Drive, Orlando

DISNEY’S MAGIC KINGDOM // Lake Buena Vista, Florida

DISNEY SPRINGS // 1486 Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista

ORANGE COUNTY NATIONAL GOLF CENTER AND LODGE // 16301 Phil Ritson Way, Winter Garden

WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION // 21 E. Plant St., Winter Garden

MOSAIC DENTAL CENTER // 1601 Park Center Drive, Suite 1, Orlando

SOUTHERN HILL FARMS // 16651 Schofield Road, Clermont

Find local news every Thursday in the Big Red

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& Observer and Southwest Orange

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Arden Park

Avalon Reserve

Avalon Ridge

Bargrove

Bella Vita Estates

Bellaria

Belmere

Black Lake Preserve

Bradford Creek

Braemar

Bronson Peak

Camden Park

Canopy Oaks

Carriage Pointe Reserve

Casa Del Lago

Casabella

Clarcona Cove

Clarcona Crossings

Clarcona Estates

Courtlea Oaks

Crown Pointe Reserve

Cypress Reserve

Fire Creek at Gotha

Foothills of Mount Dora

Forest Lake Estates

Gardens Of Isleworth Garden West

Pointe Harbor Isle

Heritage At Plant Street

Highlands At Summerlake Grove Hilltop Reserve

Island At Oakland

Trails Johns Lake Point

Lakeside

Lester Ridge

Matthews Grove

Newbury Park

Oakland Hills

Oakland Park

Oaks At Brandy Lake

Oaks At Kelly Park

Ocoee Landings

Ocoee Pines

Orange Cove

Orchird Estates

Overlook At Hamlin

Oxford Chase

Palms at Windermere

Park Ave Estates

Park Place

Park View Of Wekiva Park

Summerlake

Summerport The Cove At The Hamlins

Tuscany Ridge

Vineyards

Vistas At Waters Edge

Waterside At Johns Lake

Waterstone

Weatherstone

Wekiva Riverwalk

West Lake Hancock Estates

Emerson Pointe

Enclave At Hamlin

Estancia At Windermere

Estates At Lake Clarice

Keenes Pointe Kensington Park Lake Butler Sound Lake Down Reserve Lake Olivia Reserve

Lakeshore of Wekiva

Park View Preserve Ravenna Reflections

Reserve At Carriage Point

Roper Reserve

San Sebastian Reserve Sanctuary At Hamlin

Westside Town Homes

Windermere Isle

Windermere Ridge

Winding Meadows

Windsor Hill Reserve

Winter Oaks

Woods Of Windermere

Worthington Park

Challenging, individualized curriculum that maximizes learning capabilities through critical thinking, creative problemsolving and hands-on education. Nurturing educators certified in child development, with more than 50 years of combined education experience.

431-0085

Dr. Sonia Simmonds

Dr. Reshav Mehtani

Heart for Giving

West Orange and Southwest Orange are home to myriad nonprofit and philanthropic organizations. Whether your passion is for children, families, the arts, the environment or something else, you’re likely to find a local group working in that space. A perfect way to get involved in our community is through giving, and here are just a few of the organizations that can benefit from your help.

BEARS WHO CARE

Email: kari@bearswhocare.org

Website: bearswhocare.org

Mission: Bears Who Care brings comfort and engages the imaginations of ill and disadvantaged children during times of need through teddy bears and books.

BETHANY CHRISTIAN SERVICES

— CENTRAL FLORIDA

29 W. Smith St., Winter Garden

Phone: (407) 877-4006

Website: bethany.org/locations/us/ florida/central-florida

Mission: Bethany Christian Services offers domestic infant adoptions, pregnancy support, transitional foster care, finding safe families for children and traffickingvictim assistance.

BLOOM & GROW GARDEN SOCIETY

Website: bloomandgrow.club

Mission: The society provides community enhancement through community service, landscape projects and financial support.

BUILDING PATHWAYS

P.O. Box 3365, Windermere

Phone: (407) 654-9711

Website: building-pathways.com

Mission: Building Pathways is a safe place where teens and adults with unique abilities are provided with structure and support while being trained in the fields of their interest.

CENTRAL FLORIDA AUDIO DESCRIPTIVE INITIATIVE

Email: Learn@CFADI.com

Website: cfadi.com

Mission: Make arts and culture accessible to people who are blind and/or have low vision.

CENTRAL FLORIDA DIAPER BANK

1041 Crown Park Circle, Winter Garden

Phone: (407) 656-7055

Website: centralfloridadiaperbank.org

Mission: Advocate and encourage healthy growth, nutrition and development for children from newborn to age 3.

CHALLENGE 22

12200 W. Colonial Drive, Suite 300K, Winter Garden

Email: info@challenge22inc.com

Website: challenge22inc.com

Mission: Raise funds that go to vetted organizations helping to treat and assist veterans working through PTS.

CHRISTIAN SERVICE

CENTER — WEST ORANGE

300 W. Franklin St., Ocoee

Phone: (407) 656-6678

Website: christianservicecenter.org/ westorange

Mission: Eradicate poverty through the provision of services and resources.

COMMONSENSE CHILDBIRTH

213 S. Dillard St., Suite 340, Winter Garden Phone: (407) 656-6938

Website: commonsensechildbirth.org

Mission: Inspire change in maternal child health care systems; to re-empower the birthing mother, father, family and community by supporting the providers, practitioners and agencies that are charged with their care; to improve birth outcomes and save lives by offering training and certification programs for health care professionals, paraprofessionals, maternity care systems and medical institutions interested in creating perinatal safety for at-risk populations.

COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTERS

110 S. Woodland St., Winter Garden Phone: (407) 905-8827

Website: chcfl.org

Mission: Provide quality and compassionate primary health care services to Central Florida’s diverse communities.

DO GOOD FARM

12423 Marshall Farms Road, Winter Garden

Email: info@dogoodfarm.org

Website: dogoodfarm.org

Mission: Create an economic engine to fund world change.

EDGEWOOD CHILDREN’S RANCH

1451 Edgewood Ranch Road, Orlando Phone: (407) 295-2464

Website: edgewoodranch.com

Mission: Provide children and their families a safe environment to change.

EIGHT WAVES

1136 E. Plant St., Winter Garden Phone: (352) 255-7350

Website: eightwaves.org

Mission: Invest in the lives of children, youth and families who live in under-resourced communities by building the healthy support systems they need to thrive.

FOUNDATION FOR A HEALTHIER WEST ORANGE

1200 E. Plant St., Suite 200, Winter Garden Phone: (407) 337-6919

Website: healthywestorange.org

Mission: This is a founding champion of Healthy West Orange, a grassroots movement to inspire West Orange County to become the healthiest community in the nation.

FRIENDS OF LAKE APOPKA

P.O. Box 770355, Winter Garden; Email: folalake@gmail.com

Website: friendsoflakeapopka.org

Mission: Advocate for the restoration of Lake Apopka.

GARDEN THEATRE

160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden Phone: (407) 877-4736

Website: gardentheatre.org

Mission: Provide programming from the spectrum of the arts to engage, entertain, educate and inspire all who experience it.

THE GIFT OF SWIMMING

Southwest Aquatics, 205 Windermere Road, Winter Garden Phone: (407) 905-2815

Website: giftofswimming.org

Mission: Provide access to drowningprevention resources for those who are underprivileged, mentally or physically challenged, or otherwise disadvantaged.

THE GREYSON PROJECT

2146 Burbank St., Orlando

Email: info@thegreysonproject.org

Website: thegreysonproject.org

Mission: Help families feel at home when loved ones are in the hospital during the holidays.

HAPCO MUSIC FOUNDATION

P.O. Box 784581, Winter Garden

Phone: (800) 409-6133

Website: hapcopromo.org

Mission: Build futures through music, art and education.

HOPE ALONG THE WAY

P.O. Box 914, Ocoee

Email: hopealongtheway@hotmail.com

Website: hopealongtheway.net

Mission: Provide community outreach and equal access to healthy food, clothing, medical services and spiritual nourishment.

JIMMY CRABTREE CANCER FUND INC.

P.O. Box 770446, Winter Garden

Website: JCCancerFund.org

President: Andy Crabtree

Mission: Assist local families battling cancer.

LEGACY EVENTS FOR EDUCATION

Email: info@legacyeventsfored.org

Website: legacyeventsfored.org

Mission: To inspire students, teachers and communities to leave their legacy on the world.

LIFT DISABILITY NETWORK

611 Business Park Blvd., Suite 105, Winter Garden

Phone: (407) 228-8343

Website: liftdisability.net

Mission: Inspire families and individuals living with disabilities to discover a new vision for their future.

MATT’S MISSION

Phone: (407) 466-7266

Website: matthewsheart.org

Mission: Increase the survival rate of sudden cardiac arrest victims through AED donations, education and training.

MATTHEW’S HOPE

611 Business Park Blvd., Suite 101, Winter Garden

Phone: (407) 905-9500

Website: matthewshopeministries.org

Mission: A homeless-outreach ministry organization funded and supported by the local community.

MILES TO GO

6651 Vineland Road, Orlando

Email: milestogocharities@gmail.com

Website: milestogocharities.org

Mission: Assembles and donates bags of toiletries, socks, snacks and more to members of the homeless community.

NEHRLING GARDENS

2267 Hempel Ave, Gotha

Phone: (407) 445-9977

Website: nehrlinggardens.org

Mission: Nehrling Gardens is the former home of famed horticulturalist Henry Nehrling, who established a garden so he could experiment with tropical and subtropical plants.

OAKLAND NATURE PRESERVE

747 Machete Trail, Oakland

Phone: (407) 905-0054

Website: oaklandnaturepreserve. wildapricot.org

Mission: Promote an understanding of the fragile balance between mankind and the environment by educating visitors about Lake Apopka basin’s ecosystems and cultural history, and by restoring and conserving the lands within the preserve.

ONE WINTER GARDEN

12200 W. Colonial Drive, Suite 300K, Winter Garden

Phone: (407) 809-8378

Website: onewintergarden.com

Mission: Promote and foster community outreach for east Winter Garden by advocating for programs and enhancements that will improve the lives of families and residents within the community

POVERTY SOLUTIONS GROUP

1000 Lincoln Terrace, Winter Garden

Phone: (407) 347-3936

Website: povertysolutionsgroup.org

Mission: Reduce poverty in Central Florida.

SAVING YOUNG HEARTS

Phone: (407) 293-9333

Mission: Provide heart screenings for early detection.

SHEPHERD’S HOPE

455 Ninth St., Winter Garden

Phone: (407) 876-6699

Website: shepherdshope.org

Mission: Provide health care services, education and wellness programs to the underinsured and uninsured.

SLEEP IN HEAVENLY PEACE

Website: shpbeds.org

Mission: This nationwide organization, which has a local chapter, utilizes volunteers and donations to build and deliver beds to children in need.

SOUTHEASTERN FOOD BANK

P.O. Box 770451, Winter Garden

Phone: (407) 654-7777

Website: southeasternfoodbank.com

Mission: Feed the hungry and care for those in need by sharing life’s necessities and a message of hope.

SPECIAL HEARTS FARM

10557 Oakview Pointe Terrace, Gotha (mailing); 1100 E. Maple St., Winter Garden (physical) Phone: (407) 347-8431

Website: specialheartsfarm.com

Mission: Provide farming and gardening experiences for individuals with disabilities and unique abilities.

WEST ORANGE

BOYS

& GIRLS CLUB

309 S. West Crown Point Road, Winter Garden

Phone: (407) 867-0566

Website: bgccf.org

Mission: Enable young people to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 52

WEST ORANGE DREAM CENTER

1136 E. Plant St., Winter Garden

Phone: (407) 258-3107

Website: wodreamcenter.com

Mission: A resource center focused on providing support to those affected by homelessness, hunger and lack of education.

WEST ORANGE HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

13369 W. Colonial Drive, Winter Garden

Phone: (407) 809-4411

Website: westorangehabitat.org

Mission: Dedicated to eliminating substandard housing through constructing and preserving homes.

WEST ORANGE JUNIOR SERVICE LEAGUE

P.O. Box 770267, Winter Garden

Email: wojslcorrespondence@gmail.com

Website: wojsl.com

Mission: Provide care and support to the community by assisting families of all races, ages and incomes.

WEST ORANGE SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION

800 S. Dillard St., Winter Garden

Email: WOScholarshipFoundation@gmail.com

Website: facebook.com/ westorangescholarship

Mission: Foster and encourage higher education of West Orange High School graduates by providing scholarship assistance to deserving students who are seeking to improve themselves.

WINDERMERE POLICE FOUNDATION

Website: bit.ly/3W1cMjK

Mission: The Windermere Police Department Foundation, Inc. was established in the wake of the tragic loss of Windermere Police Officer Robert “Robbie” German on March 22, 2014. This charity has promoted, encouraged and benefited the citizens served by the Windermere Police Department, the employees and families of the Windermere Police Department, and the Central Florida community.

WINDERMERE WINE

& DINE

Email: windermerewineanddine@gmail.com

Website: windermerewineanddine.com

WINTER GARDEN ART ASSOCIATION

127 S. Boyd St., Winter Garden

Phone: (407) 347-7996

Website: wgart.org

Mission: Encourage individual creativity and artistic expression, promote community involvement and cooperation, and advance the appreciation, education and availability of visual and cultural arts in the city of Winter Garden and surrounding areas.

WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION

Mission: Improve lives of all in Central Florida by connecting individuals, families and communities with opportunities based on Christian values that strengthen spirit, mind and body. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 51

Mission: All proceeds benefit various charitable organizations and the town of Windermere.

21 E. Plant St. and 1 N. Main St., Winter Garden

Phone: (407) 656-3244

Website: wghf.org

Mission: Preserve the heritage and architecture of West Orange County while creating new cultural experiences.

YMCA OF CENTRAL FLORIDA/ ROPER FAMILY YMCA

100 Windermere Road, Winter Garden

Phone: (407) 656-8816

Website: ymcacf.org

TheBloom and Grow Garden Society has been a force for good in Winter Garden and West Orange County since the club’s inception in 1997.

With a focus on the importance of plants and beautiful landscapes, our members embrace projects designed to enhance the quality of life in our community. Working with the City of Winter Garden, its residents, businesses and community organizations, we create events that add beauty, help the natural environment and make us all healthier and happier.

It is the mission of the Bloom and Grow Garden Society “to stimulate a knowledge and love of gardening through promotion and sponsorship of community projects and the protection and sustainability of native habitat, to promote and sponsor educational horticultural experiences and civic involvement.”

The Bloom and Grow Garden Society contributes to Winter Garden and West Orange County financially through grants to local organizations and scholarships to college students studying horticulture. We sponsor plants sales each year that offer quality plants to members and residents while raising funds to encourage monarch butterfly and pollinator habitats. In addition to our major projects, we provide support to Health Central Park and our local hospitals, the West Orange Trail, the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation and the city of Winter Garden. With over 25 schools in West Orange County, the Bloom and Grow Garden Society has extended its programs to include tree planting as well as butterfly and pollinator gardens at many of these schools.

Sponsorship opportunities for club projects and Spring Fever in the Garden are available on the Spring Fever website.

SPRING FEVER WEBSITE

BLOOM AND GROW WEBSITE

SPRING FEVER IN THE GARDEN

SPRING FEVER IN THE GARDEN

PATH OF LIFE

THE MONARCH GARDEN

PLANT IT PINK

POLLINATOR POWER

WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE TREE PROJECT

n Dining and Nightlife. The Baldwin Park Village Center offers something for every mood and flavor palate. The center includes a plethora of restaurants and shops. During the evening hours, many families, children and couples can be seen gathering blankets and lawn chairs to take to the parks or enjoying a sunset stroll by the lake.

n Arts and Culture. Baldwin Park is known for its deep military roots. For more than 30 years, the site of Blue Jacket Park served as the Orlando Naval Training Center and was “home” to thousands of service personnel known as “Blue Jackets.” In 2000, the city of Orlando designated 75 acres of this historic site as a public park to serve its citizens with a special place for reflection and physical renewal.

n Shop Till You Drop. The Baldwin Park Village Center is the perfect place to shop from local boutiques and small businesses.

EVENTS

n Community Market. Held on the third Saturday of every month on New Broad Street in downtown Baldwin Park, the community market serves as a free neighborhood gathering place for friends and family. It offers unique products, such as candles, jewelry, clothing, artisan soaps, health products and baked goods from a variety of local vendors.

n Independence Bash. Baldwin Park’s Independence Bash is perhaps one of the most highly anticipated events of the season, with this year’s event bringing about 20,000 people to the downtown area. The free, family-friendly event includes music and dancing, a beer garden, food trucks, balloon artists, face painting, live performances, and photo opportunities — all culminating with a spectacular fireworks display.

DAY TRIP

BALDWIN PARK

LOCAL FLAVOR

n Baldwin Perk Caffè, 4833 New Broad St., Orlando. Experience the best of French-Italian brunch with paninis, aromatic coffee, tantalizing sweet treats and a “Friends''-inspired ambiance for delightful conversations. To finish off a meal, try the specialty Baldwinccino, which is espresso with smooth steamed milk, cinnamon, honey and vanilla, paired with a French scone, flavored croissant or danish.

n Tactical Brewing Co., 4882 New Broad St., Orlando. This brewery was founded by veterans and passionate people who love craft beer. The unique and inviting culture at the brewery caters to people from all different walks of life. The brewery creates many unique beer styles with special twists and often hosts beer festivals and other local events. All beers are brewed onsite, and the brewery rotates new releases on a regular basis.

n Colibri Mexican Cuisine, 4963 New Broad St., Orlando. This Mexican & Tex-Mex eatery is decorated in deep colors, with a full bar, outdoor seats and a lake view. Try starting off with the Guacamole Fresco before diving into entrées, such as the burritos, tacos, flautas and enchiladas. Make sure to stop by and visit The Wildflower next door, which is a cocktail bar serving refreshing and delicately-decorated drinks.

What started as an area for military purposes from World War II until the 1990s has transformed into the tight-knit community of Baldwin Park.

The area, located in close proximity to downtown Orlando and Winter Park, makes for the perfect summer day trip, boasting 20 parks, two lakes, three pools, two workout centers, bike trails and a thriving village center. The vibrant neighborhood’s downtown area is its crown jewel, featuring a plethora of restaurant options, such as Gator’s Dockside, Camille, The Osprey, La Bella Luna and Meza; as well as shops, including Lafayette & Rushford, Victoria Jewelers, White Blossom Bridal, Paper Goat Post and Apiary. The Baldwin Park Village Center offers myriad events throughout the year, perfect to celebrate any occasion with family, neighbors and even four-legged friends.

SIGHTS TO SEE

n Art Attack. The Milk District has some of the most colorful murals in Central Florida. Take a tour of the area and check out the paint jobs on businesses such as T.G. Lee Dairy, Alchemy, Primrose Tattoo Parlor, Minuteman Press Orlando, Phò Hòa, Sportstown, Se7enBites and Liberty Barber Shop.

n Honoring Our Heroes

Colonel Joe Kittinger Park is a city roadside park honoring Central Florida veterans who served in the Vietnam War. The park is home to a refurbished F-4 Phantom aircraft that was used to provide air support during the war. The park also has other amenities, such as a playground for the little ones to enjoy. The park serves as a trailhead for the Lake Underhill Path, which is open sunrise to sunset at 305 S. Crystal Lake Drive, Orlando.

EVENTS

n The Plaza Live. There’s always a concert or comedy show planned at the recently renovated The Plaza Live.

n Tasty Takeover. Tasty Takeover is a weekly food truck and pop-up event that draws international mobile eateries such as Red Panda Noodle, Pudding Queen, Chicken Waffle Grill, Cloud 9 Berries and Rock Paper Scissors Eat. It is set up in the back parking lots of 2424 E. Robinson St., Orlando, from 6:30 to 10 p.m. Tuesdays.

n Silver Screen. The Nook on Robinson bar has monthly outdoor movie nights featuring old films. It also offers Vinyl Night, and customers can take in their own LPs for a spin on the turntable. The community-focused beer bar specializes in Florida-brewed beverages, art and music and is owned by Matt Duke.

DAY TRIP

MILK DISTRICT

LOCAL FLAVOR

n Beefy King, 424 N. Bumby Ave, Orlando. This iconic Orlando staple has been a mainstay on Bumby for 56 years, and you can count on it to be busy during mealtimes. The simple menu consists of roast beef, corned beef, ham, turkey, pastrami and barbecue beef or pork sandwiches; plus a list of sides — and you can even buy a T-shirt to commemorate your visit.

n Gringos Locos, 2406 E. Robinson St., Orlando. This locally homegrown fast-casual Mexican joint frequently has been voted Best Taco in Orlando. The restaurant has a menu full of nachos, tacos, empanadas, burritos, quesadillas and more made from scratch using fresh ingredients. Top it all off with a choice of beers, seltzers and bottled Mexican sodas.

n Sideward Brewing Co., 210 N. Bumby Ave., Suite C, Orlando. This family-owned craft brewery, taproom and kitchen has some fun names on tap: Punks in the Waiting Room, Moon Boots, Friends & Enemies, People of the Sun and Hopped Swamp Water. You can pair your favorite flavor with an assortment of shareables and sandwiches at this pet-friendly establishment.

Before the Milk District earned its moniker, it was an area east of Orlando that was home to T.G. Lee Dairy. Thomas Gilbert Lee and his wife, Elizabeth, opened the 20-acre dairy operation in 1925 with one cow named Hopper and a bank note to buy a second bovine. The plant remains on Bumby Avenue and still is a prominent producer of milk for Floridians.

Today, the Milk District, which is a nonprofit organization, generally covers the commercial area between Colonial Drive and South Street from Orlando Executive Airport (Primrose) to Bumby Avenue. It has evolved into a diverse community full of street art, small shops, cultural experiences, restaurants and bars; and it excels at nurturing arts and culture and being eclectic.

If you’re hungry, check out A la Cart, Gringos Locos, Maxine’s on Shine, Beefy King, the Tuesday night Tasty Takeover food truck party, the Milkhouse and a selection of restaurants in the Colonial Plaza outdoor shopping plaza.

If you’re into the bar scene, you can choose from a plethora of establishments, including the Southern Nights LGBT bar and dance club, Whippoorwill Beer House and Package Store, Bull & Bush Pub, and the 56-year-old Milk District staple: Whiskey Lou’s bar. Want coffee? Head over to the Drunken Monkey Coffee Bar that offers frequent nighttime comedy shows.

— AMY QUESINBERRY

SIGHTS TO SEE

n The Great Outdoors. Mead Botanical Garden. With 47 acres to explore, Mead Garden is an experience filled with sights, sounds, and scents that will make your senses come alive. With its hiking trails, creek, boardwalk, tall pine trees, greenhouse, butterfly garden and pond, there’s plenty to discover in this green space getaway.

n Wet and Wild. Whether it be by boat, kayak or paddleboard, one of the best activities you can do while visiting Winter Park is explore its six lakes connected by a system of man-made canals.

n A Bit of History. For history buffs, the Winter Park History Museum is a perfect stop on a day trip to the city. The museum offers an ever-changing rotation of new exhibits, different collections that bring old Winter Park to life, walking tours of historic sites and a detailed timeline of the city’s history.

n Market Fresh. The Winter Park Farmers Market is a weekly market that takes place each Saturday morning in the heart of the city — Central Park.

EVENTS

n Taste of Winter Park. Featuring more than 40 of Central Florida's top chefs, bakers, caterers and beverage purveyors, the Taste of Winter Park is a fun evening of all-inclusive and unlimited sampling of signature dishes, refreshing beverages and decadent desserts.

n Cows ’n Cabs. This annual cowboy-themed fundraiser features mini-dish tastings from 35-plus gourmet Orlando restaurants paired with more than 200 wines, cocktails and craft beers — all to benefit charities supporting children in Central Florida. So, grab your boots and cowboy hat for a wonderful evening of live music, food and helping others.

DAY TRIP

WINTER PARK

LOCAL FLAVOR

n Braccia Pizzeria & Ristorante, 153 E. Morse Blvd., Winter Park. This Italian restaurant with a Brazilian flair specializes in unique pizza creations, such as its pepperoni pesto pizza or brie with apricot pizza, to go along with traditional Italian classics, such as margherita pizza and various pasta and entrée options.

n 310 Park South, 310 S. Park Ave., Winter Park. This local “New American Cuisine” restaurant is focused on fresh food made with quality ingredients. Located in the heart of Winter Park, 310 Park South offers cafestyle seating, an extensive wine list, a full bar and a menu full of options that will make your mouth water. We suggest the Penne Bagziti.

n AVA MediterrAegean, 290 S. Park Ave., Winter Park. Recipients of the 2022 and 2023 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, AVA MediterrAegean is a multi-sensory venue that features the essence of Mediterranean and Aegean cultures, design and cuisines. It offers a unique experience that immerses all the senses through refined taste, bespoke mixology, transporting ethnic sounds and unparalleled ambiance.

Located north of downtown Orlando, Winter Park is one of Central Florida’s most enchanting and popular areas to spend a day.

Originally named Lakeview and renamed Osceola, the area was dubbed Winter Park in 1881 by its founders, Lorin Chase and Oliver Chapman, and in 1887 was chartered officially. The area was developed as a winter resort for wealthy Northerners seeking refuge from the harsh winters. It gave them a place to enjoy the city’s lakes, warm temperatures and nature.

Although much more residential than touristy, Winter Park still boasts many of the same qualities for visitors today — but with much more to offer.

Winter Park has some of Central Florida’s top restaurants and nightlife — including authentic Italian stops, such as Prato, contemporary brunch joint Briarpatch or fine-dining staple Hillstone Restaurant.

Beyond the numerous dining options, the Park Avenue district offers some of the most unique shopping experiences in Central Florida. Along the east side of Central Park, a beautiful green space in the city, you’ll find various boutiques and retail shops up and down Park Avenue.

On the cultural side, Winter Park is also home to various museums, festivals and theaters — including the Winter Park Playhouse, The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art and the Bach Festival Society of Winter Park.

— SAM ALBUQUERQUE

BACK TO SCHOOL

West Orange County is full of families, and the number increases daily as people continue to move to this amazing area. With that growth comes a need for preschools for your little ones. Here’s a sample of the early-education options in the area.

EARLY EDUCATION

DR. PHILLIPS/ SOUTHWEST ORANGE

Bright Stars Preschool 7325 Conroy Windermere Road, Orlando (407) 299-2092 brightstarsorlando@gmail.com

Christ the King Lutheran Preschool

4962 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando (407) 876-8155 ctkpreschool.net

Discovery Prep Academy 5715 Turkey Lake Road, Orlando (407) 351-5500 discoveryprepacademy.com

KinderCare Learning Center at Dr. Phillips 7113 Wallace Road, Orlando (407) 226-0646 kindercare.com

Ladybird Academy of Dr. Phillips 6809 Daisy St., Orlando (407) 412-6908 ladybirdacademy.com

The Learning Center of Dr. Phillips 8004 Banyan Blvd., Orlando (407) 352-1353 tlcdrphillips.com

KLA Schools of Horizon West 8185 Summerlake Groves St., Winter Garden (407) 917-4343 klaschools.com/horizon-west

Ladybird Academy of Windermere 12144 Chase Road, Windermere (407) 654-7695 ladybirdacademy.com

Lakeside Preschool 8464 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Orlando (407) 217-5967 lakesidepreschool.com

The Learning Experience — Horizon West 9275 Miley Drive, Winter Garden (407) 614-3622 thelearningexperience.com

Church at the Cross Preschool

700 Good Homes Road, Orlando (407) 293-4571 catcorlando.com

Glad Tidings Preschool & Academy — Central Campus

2009 Fullers Cross Road, Ocoee (407) 656-4140 gladtidingsacademy.com

Ladybird Academy of Ocoee 2060 West Road, Ocoee (407) 654-6896 ladybirdacademy.com

Lil’ Lights Preschool 1105 N. Lakeview Ave., Ocoee (407) 347-0503 admin@mylillights.com

Little Fishes Preschool at Presbyterian Church of the Lakes 4700 Lincoln Ave., Orlando (407) 291-3292 pcol.org/little-fishes

Rosen JCC’s Early Learning Center Preschool 11184 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando (407) 387-5330 info@www.rosenjcc.org

St. Luke’s Child Development Center 4851 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando (407) 876-1155 social@st.lukes.org

HORIZON WEST

Amazing Explorers — Hamlin 5796 Hamlin Groves Trail, Winter Garden (407) 641-3374 aexplorers.com

Bright Horizons at Windermere 7866 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Windermere (407) 612-6058 brighthorizons.com

Kiddie Academy of Winter Garden 15806 Shaddock Drive, Winter Garden (407) 863-2147

The Learning Experience — Windermere 6290 Lake Smith Circle, Windermere (407) 614-0338 thelearningexperience.com

StarChild Academy 11815 Silverlake Park Drive, Windermere (407) 876-7827 starchildacademy.com

OAKLAND

Growing Me Learning Center

304 E. Oakland Ave., Oakland (407) 656-2887 thegrowingmelearningcenter.com

Kiddie Academy of Oakland 15708 W. Colonial Drive, Winter Garden (407) 961-6060 kiddieacademy.com

Lakeside Christian Academy 16001 W. Colonial Drive, Oakland (407) 347-4772, Ext. 1004 lakesidechristianacademy.com

Oakland Presbyterian Preschool

218 E. Oakland Ave., Oakland (407) 656-4452, Ext. 104 oaklandpres.org

OCOEE

Amazing Explorers — Windermere/Ocoee 1651 Amazing Way, Ocoee (407) 583-6192 aexplorers.com

Ocoee Oaks Preschool 201 S. Clarke Road, Ocoee (407) 293-6650 ocoeeoaksschool@bellsouth.net

Primrose School of Ocoee 860 Tomyn Blvd., Ocoee (407) 347-8902 primroseschools.com

Treasure Kids Academy 1025 S. Clarke Road, Ocoee (407) 522-5740 treasurekidsacademy.com

West Orlando Baptist Church

Child Discovery Center 1006 E. Crown Point Road, Ocoee (407) 905-9508 westorlandobaptistchurch.com

WINDERMERE/GOTHA

Child Development Center

Family Church Windermere 300 Main St., Windermere (407) 876-2874 preschoolwindermere.com

Montessori Kids

Academy of Windermere 1707 Maguire Road, Windermere (407) 217-5566 montessoriofwindermere.com

Premier Academy 9380 Gotha Road, Windermere (407) 290-3277 premieracademyschools.com

Windermere Union Church Preschool 10710 Park Ridge-Gotha Road, Windermere (407) 909-0464 wucpreschool@gmail.com

WINTER GARDEN

All Kidz Preschool 1130 E. Plant St., Winter Garden (407) 554-5388 AllKidzPreschool8@gmail.com

Babyland Bilingual Academy Center 1101 S. Park Ave., Winter Garden (407) 654-6474 babylandbilingualacademy.com/wg

Bright Horizons at Winter Garden 1660 Daniels Road, Winter Garden (407) 654-9693 brighthorizons.com

Children of the Messiah Preschool 241 N. Main St., Winter Garden (407) 656-3218 childrenofthemessiah@gmail.com

Children’s Lighthouse 220 Windermere Road, Winter Garden (407) 395-0077 childrenslighthouse.com/wintergarden

Discover Preschool

855 E. Plant St., Suite 500, Winter Garden (407) 337-5772 thediscoverpreschool.com

First United Methodist Church Learning Center 125 N. Lakeview Ave., Winter Garden (407) 656-9228 learningcenter1@fumcwg.org

The Goddard School Winter Garden 2007 Avalon Road, Winter Garden (407) 777-2791 goddardschool.com

The King’s Academy Preschool & Learning Center 1302 Edgeway Drive, Winter Garden (407) 656-5665

Ladybird Academy of Winter Garden 1630 Avalon Road, Winter Garden (407) 395-2181 ladybirdacademy.com

Little Hands Learning Center 1001 W. Plant St., Winter Garden (407) 656-6999 littlehandslearningcenter.org

Little Orange Academy Preschool 1101 S. Park Ave., Winter Garden (407) 654-6474 littleorangeacademy.net

Matthew’s Hope Firm Foundation Preschool 740 Ninth St., Winter Garden (800) 435-7352 matthewshopeministries.org

The Nest School at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church 16161 Marsh Road, Winter Garden (321) 204-6240 thenestschool.com/locations/ winter-garden

Resurrection Catholic Church Preschool 1211 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Winter Garden (407) 656-6425 preschool@resurrectionwg.org

StarChild Academy 1324 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Winter Garden (407) 877-0345 starchildwintergarden.com

Sunlight Christian Academy of Winter Garden 607 Avalon Road, Winter Garden (407) 395-2777 scawg.org

Sunshine-Solnyshki Educational Child Care 13 E. Cypress St., Winter Garden (407) 395-9869 solnyshkochildcare.com

UCP West Orange Campus 1441 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Winter Garden (407) 904-0135 ucpcharter.org/westorange

Winter Garden

Academy at First Baptist 72 N. Woodland St., Winter Garden (407) 656-2352 fbcwg.org/wgacademy

ORANGE COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD

CHAIR

TERESA JACOBS

Teresa Jacobs became Chair of the Orange County School Board in November 2018. She previously served two terms as Orange County mayor (2010-2018) and two terms as an Orange County commissioner (2000-2008).

A native of South Florida, Jacobs graduated cum laude from Florida State University with a degree in economics and enjoyed a nine-year career in banking before entering public office. She has served on the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, Central Florida Expressway Authority, Central Florida Commuter Rail Commission, LYNX Board of Directors and MetroPlan Orlando.

DISTRICT 1

ANGIE GALLO, VICE CHAIR

DISTRICT 4 PAM GOULD

Pam Gould was elected to the School Board in 2012. She has dedicated more than 30 years to focusing on providing a higher quality of life for the young, the homeless, those suffering with mental illness, as well as the more mature among us. She decided to leave the School Board to run for Orange County Commission District 1 but subsequently withdrew her candidacy. Three candidates — Anne Douglas, Kyle Goudy and Jake Petroski — filed to replace her on the School Board. The election took place after press time.

Angie Gallo was elected in 2018 as School Board member for District 1 and currently is vice chair of the board. Gallo has been volunteering in Orange County for more than 20 years. She served as PTA president at the elementary-, middle- and high-school levels and also sat on the Orange County Council of PTA/PTSA board of directors. In addition to PTA, Gallo has served as School Advisory Committee chair for East Lake Elementary and served on the SAC at Corner Lake Middle and East River High.

DISTRICT 2

MARIA SALAMANCA

Maria Salamanca was elected the District 2 member of OCPS in 2022, the youngest voice in district history after a student-led grassroots campaign. Salamanca was a student of the district for 12 years in six different schools. She attended UC Berkeley, where she studied political science and legal studies with a minor in public policy.

DISTRICT 3

ALICIA FARRANT

Alicia Farrant was elected in 2022. She has grown up in a life of public service and helping those in need. At the age of 13, she moved to Guatemala with her family to engage in full-time charity work. After high school, she went into the medical field, working her way from a CNA to an RN. She is the founder of Wigs of Hope, an outreach that has created more than 300 wigs for underprivileged children.

DISTRICT 5

VICKI-ELAINE FELDER

Vicki-Elaine Felder was elected to the School Board in November 2020. She is known as a wordsmith and orator. She paints the power of words and ideas on the minds and canvas of those who hear her — especially her students. She possesses the versatility to reach for hidden potential found in all of her students. This serves as a testimony of her ability and her commitment as a champion for education.

DISTRICT 6 KAREN CASTOR DENTEL

Dr. Karen Castor Dentel was first elected to the Orange County School Board in August 2018. She is an experienced teacher, having worked in both Orange County Public Schools and Alachua County Public Schools. In 2023, she anounced her candidacy for Orange County Supervisor of Elections. Two candidates — Jeni Grieger and Stephanie Vanos — sought to replace her on the School Board. The election took place after press time.

DISTRICT 7

MELISSA BYRD

Melissa Byrd was elected to represent District 7 on the Orange County School Board in 2018. From an early age, Byrd had a passion for education, deciding she wanted to be a teacher when she was in elementary school while growing up in Altamonte Springs. Her passion led her to the University of Central Florida, where she received her degree in elementary education in 1997 and started her career at Forest City Elementary.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

ATWATER BAY

11000 Atwater Bay Drive, Winter Garden

WEBSITE: atwaterbayes.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Matthew R. Hendricks

MASCOT: Stingrays

MEET THE TEACHER: 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 5, for students in ESE ASD unit classrooms; 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8, for VPK through fifth grade.

ENROLLMENT: 720

FUN FACT: Atwater Bay is the first prototype of its kind and will have a look unlike any others. One of the main differences is the school won't have the traditional waxed floors. The hallways and cafeteria will be polished concrete with the classrooms having either carpet or a deluxe luxury vinyl.

BAY LAKE

12005 Silverlake Park Drive, Windermere

PHONE: (407) 217-7960

WEBSITE: baylakees.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Lakeitha Mincey

MASCOT: Lions

MEET THE TEACHER: 3 to 6

p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8

ENROLLMENT: 712

FUN FACT: Bay Lake is recognized by the Florida Department of Education as a School of Excellence.

BAY MEADOWS

9150 S. Apopka-Vineland Road

PHONE: (407) 876-7500

WEBSITE: baymeadowses.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Joann Dorries

MASCOT: Koalas

MEET THE TEACHER: Thursday, Aug. 8. First, third and fifth grades, 8:30 to 10 a.m.; kindergarten, second and fourth grades, 10:15 to 11:45 a.m.

ENROLLMENT: 745

FUN FACT: Bay Meadows opened in August 1990 and will begin its 35th year serving the Dr. Phillips community and students enrolled through School Choice through the magnet application process as a STEAM Career Academy.

CASTLEVIEW

9131 Taborfield Ave., Orlando

PHONE: (407) 612-4205

WEBSITE: castleviewes.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Jonathan Rasmussen

MASCOT: Dragons

ENROLLMENT: 779

FUN FACT: Castleview has a house system.

CITRUS

87 N. Clarke Road, Ocoee

PHONE: (407) 445-5475

WEBSITE: citruses.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Mary Clark

MASCOT: Honeybees

MEET THE TEACHER: Thursday, Aug. 8. Third through fifth grade, 10 a.m. to noon; kindergarten through second grade, 12:45 to 2:45 p.m.

ENROLLMENT: 509

FUN FACT: Citrus turns 24 this year.

DILLARD STREET

311 N. Dillard St., Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 877-5000

WEBSITE: dillardstreetes.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Tiffany Smid

MASCOT: Dragon named Dougie

MEET THE TEACHER: Thursday, Aug. 8. VPK and kindergarten orientation, 3 p.m.; other grades, 4 to 6 p.m.

ENROLLMENT: 505

FUN FACT: Nearly all 505 students live within a two-mile radius from the school.

DR. PHILLIPS

6909 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Orlando

PHONE: (407) 354-2600

WEBSITE: drphillipses.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Autherene Leighvard

MASCOT: Eagles

MEET THE TEACHER: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8

ENROLLMENT: 690

FUN FACT: Students celebrate their academic and behavioral achievements in Eagle Club each quarter.

EAGLE'S NEST

5353 MetroWest Blvd., Orlando PHONE: (407) 521-2795

WEBSITE: eaglesnestes.ocps. net

PRINCIPAL: Lisa Adams MASCOT: Eagles ENROLLMENT: 637

WILLIAM R. FRANGUS

380 Killington Way, Orlando PHONE: (407) 296-6469

WEBSITE: franguses.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: DeCheryl Britton

MASCOT: Jazz

MEET THE TEACHER: 2:30 to 5 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8

ENROLLMENT: 420

FUN FACT: The school is named for a former school board member, Bill Frangus, who had a love for jazz music and the saxophone.

HAMLIN

16145 Silver Grove Blvd., Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 395-9830

WEBSITE: hamlines.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL:

Dr. Angela Murphy-Osborne

MASCOT: Huskies

MEET THE TEACHER: Thursday, Aug. 8. Pre-K and kindergarten, 10 to 11 a.m.; first through fifth grade, 1 to 3 p.m.

ENROLLMENT: 657

FUN FACT: The staff works to provide students with a rich learning environment, both in academics and social emotional development.

INDEPENDENCE

6255 New Independence Parkway, Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 217-7727

WEBSITE: independencees.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Jeffrey Alan Peters

MASCOT: Eagles

MEET THE TEACHER: 3 to 5 p.m.

Thursday, Aug. 8

ENROLLMENT: 925

FUN FACT: Independence has a diverse student population, with students from more than 30 countries.

KEENE’S CROSSING

5240 Keenes Pheasant Drive, Windermere

PHONE: (407) 654-1351

WEBSITE: keenescrossinges.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Tracy Webley

MASCOT: Cougars

MEET THE TEACHER: Thursday, Aug. 8. ESE and VPK, 3 to 4 p.m.; kindergarten through fifth grade, 4 to 6 p.m.

ENROLLMENT: 1,027

FUN FACT: Keene’s Crossing hosts one of the largest chess programs in the district. KCE ChessMates is a free program offered to all KCES students regardless of their knowledge of the game.

LAKE WHITNEY

1351 Windermere Road, Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 877-8888

WEBSITE: lakewhitneyes.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Dr. Pamela Crabb

MASCOT: Dolphins

MEET THE TEACHER: Thursday, Aug. 8. Pre-K morning, 8 a.m.; preK afternoon, 9 a.m. Other grades A-I, 9 to 10 a.m.; J-Q, 10 to 11 a.m.; and R-Z, 11, a.m. to noon

ENROLLMENT: 587

FUN FACT: Lake Whitney continuously thrives on being an "A" school.

WILLIAM S. MAXEY

602 E. Story Road, Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 877-5020

WEBSITE: maxeyes.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Sean Brown

MASCOT: The Mighty Wildcats

MEET THE TEACHER: Thursday, Aug. 8. VPK, Pre-K and kindergarten through second grades, 2 to 3 p.m.; third through fifth grades, 4 to 5 p.m.

ENROLLMENT: 547

FUN FACT: Maxey is a Kids for Peace Kindness Certified School.

OCOEE

400 S. Lakewood Ave., Ocoee

PHONE: (407) 877-5027

WEBSITE: ocoeees.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Kandace Goshe

MASCOT: Cardinals

ENROLLMENT: 728

FUN FACT: The school has many families who have grandparents and great-grandparents who also attended Ocoee. Parents recog nize teachers at the school from when they were students.

PALM LAKE

8000 Pin Oak Drive, Orlando

PHONE: (407) 354-2610

WEBSITE: palmlakees.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: James Weis

MASCOT: Bobcats

MEET YOUR TEACHER: Thurs day, Aug. 8. Starts in the cafeteria at 4 p.m. and moves to class rooms from 4:30 to 6 p.m.

ENROLLMENT: 603

FUN FACT: Palm Lake teaches the whole child, inside and out, using traditional classrooms and out door classrooms on the Bobcat Nature Trail.

PANTHER LAKE

10151 Summerlake Groves St., Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 554-1940

WEBSITE: pantherlakees.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Christine Szymanski

MASCOT: Panthers

MEET THE TEACHER:

Kindergarten and new student orientation, 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 30. Thursday, Aug. 8: Kindergarten through second grade, 9 to 10:30 a.m.; third through fifth grades, 10:30 a.m. to noon

ENROLLMENT: 745

FUN FACT: The school has a diverse student population, with nine different languages represented. The car loop has a welcome banner for each.

PRAIRIE LAKE

8723 Hackney Prairie Road, Orlando

PHONE: (407) 884-2220

WEBSITE: prairielakees.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Sean Downing

MASCOT: Panthers

ENROLLMENT: 851

FUN FACT: The school selects a different theme each year.

SAND LAKE

8301 Buena Vista Woods Blvd., Orlando

PHONE: (407) 903-7400

WEBSITE: sandlakees.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Kathleen Phillips

MASCOT: Stingrays

MEET THE TEACHER: Thursday, Aug. 8. Pre-K ASD and kindergarden through second grade, 4 to 5 p.m.; third through fifth grades, 5 to 6 p.m.

KINDERGARTEN SIGNING DAY: Orientation and Meet the Teacher for incoming kindergartners and their families, 9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 3

ENROLLMENT: 739

FUN FACT: There was once an alligator found in the bike rack. Wildlife officials came to remove the 4-foot creature.

SPRING LAKE

1105 Sarah Lee Lane, Ocoee

PHONE: (407) 578-2085

WEBSITE: springlakees.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Aja Wilkins

MASCOT: Blue Jays

ENROLLMENT: 460

FUN FACT: Spring Lake has a house system, and all students are sorted into one of our four houses. Students and staff enjoy quarterly house competitions.

SUMMERLAKE

15450 Porter Road, Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 554-1774

WEBSITE: summerlakees.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Delaine Bender

MASCOT: Gators

MEET THE TEACHER: Thursday, Aug. 8. Kindergarten through second grade, 9 to 10:30 a.m.; third through fifth grades, 10:30 a.m. to noon. Families with students in multiple grades can attend either session.

ENROLLMENT: 779

FUN FACT: This is the school's fifth year, and its students come from nine different countries and speak eight different languages.

SUNRIDGE

14455 SunRidge Blvd., Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 656-0809

WEBSITE: sunridgees.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Diana Greer

MASCOT: Sunny the Eagle

MEET THE TEACHER: Thursday, Aug. 8. VPK through second grade, 9 to 10:30 a.m.; third through fifth grades, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

ENROLLMENT: 697

FUN FACT: SunRidge Elementary has made it a tradition to bring snow to the school every December.

SUNSET PARK

12050 Overstreet Road, Windermere

PHONE: (407) 905-3724

WEBSITE: sunsetparkes.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Stacey Price

MASCOT: Eagles

MEET THE TEACHER: Thursday, Aug. 8. Kindergarten through second grade, 3 to 4 p.m.; third through fifth grades, 4:30 to 6 p.m.

ENROLLMENT: 761

FUN FACT: Sunset Park has a house system to help promote community and social emotional learning.

THORNEBROOKE

601 Thornebrooke Drive, Ocoee

PHONE: (407) 909-1301

WEBSITE: thornebrooke.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Korey Bawden

MASCOT: Barracudas

MEET THE TEACHER: Thursday, Aug. 8. ESE and VPK, 2 to 3 p.m.; last names A-F, 3 to 4 p.m.; G-O, 4 to 5 p.m.; P-Z, 5 to 6 p.m.

ENROLLMENT: 600

TILDENVILLE

1221 Brick Road, Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 877-5054

WEBSITE: tildenvillees.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Agathe Alvarez

MASCOT: Tigers

MEET THE TEACHER: Three sessions to choose from Thursday, Aug. 8: 3 to 3:45, 4 to 4:45 or 5 to 5:45 p.m.

ENROLLMENT: 666

FUN FACT: Tildenville employs a two-way dual-language program; students learn in English and Spanish while receiving 45 minutes of French each week.

WATER SPRING

16000 Water Spring Blvd., Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 554-1610

WEBSITE: waterspringes.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Margarita E. Zizza

MASCOT: Otters

MEET THE TEACHER: 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8

ENROLLMENT: 1,408

FUN FACT: Water Spring opened in August 2019. Its mascot, Ollie the Otter, was created by a talented member of the community and named by its “Otterly Amazing” community.

WESTBROOKE

500 Tomyn Blvd., Ocoee

PHONE: (407) 656-6228

WEBSITE: westbrookees.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Vidal Reyes

MASCOT: Wildcats

ENROLLMENT: 514

FUN FACT: Westbrooke awards the Tomyn Award each year to students who show outstanding effort in all academic areas and possess leadership qualities.

WEST OAKS

905 Dorscher Road, Orlando

PHONE: (407) 532-3875

WEBSITE: westoakses.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Elaine Lundberg

MASCOT: Wildcats

MEET THE TEACHER: 5 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8

ENROLLMENT: 483

FUN FACT: Celebrating 20 years.

WHISPERING OAK

15300 Stoneybrook West Parkway, Winter Garden PHONE: (407) 656-7773

WEBSITE: whisperingoakes.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Lee “Kip” Montgomery

MASCOT: Wildcats

MEET THE TEACHER: 9 a.m. to noon Thursday, Aug. 8

ENROLLMENT: 827

FUN FACT: Niche.com recently rated WOES No. 1 out of 152 schools for having the best public school teachers in Orange County.

WINDERMERE

11125 Park Ave., Windermere

PHONE: (407) 876-7520

WEBSITE: windermerees.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Janet Bittick

MASCOT: Mustangs

ENROLLMENT: 566

FUN FACT: Windermere has served students since 1889.

WINDY RIDGE K-8 SCHOOL

3900 Beech Tree Drive, Orlando

PHONE: (407) 296-5100

WEBSITE: windyridgek8.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Dr. Karena Chunoo

MASCOT: Silverhawks

MEET THE TEACHER: Friday, Aug. 9

ENROLLMENT: 1,191

FUN FACT: This is a school with lots of parent involvement, and some current teachers were students here themselves.

Live, Work, Play

the Winter Garden way.

We are a family oriented city, known for its charming atmosphere, brick paved streets lined with awe-inspiring trees, flowers, fountains and enchanting character. The City prides itself on customer service excellence and proudly refer to that as the “Winter Garden Way”. We encourage you to visit the city’s website for information about opportunities to join our growing team of dedicated staff. Come visit Winter Garden and experience the friendly and welcoming people who live and work here! We would love to hear from you and welcome you to join us as we live the Winter Garden Way every day!

The City of Winter Garden provides the following benefits to regular full-time employees:

• Retirement pension with 5 year vesting for General Employees and 6 year vesting for Fire and Police

• Optional additional retirement savings with a 457(b) plan

• Medical Insurance - 100% City paid employee-only medical coverage

• Partial City contribution for the cost of dependent care medical coverage

• Health Savings Account - A City contribution of $1,454.24 to the HSA annually

• City paid long term disability and life insurance benefits

• Vacation and sick leave banks with 10 paid holidays Educational reimbursement and career development program

• Dental, vision, flexible spending, and dependent care accounts

• Employee Assistance Program

• Legal Shield

• Clothing allowance and uniforms supplied

• Free gym membership

MIDDLE SCHOOLS BRIDGEWATER

5600 Tiny Road, Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 905-3710

WEBSITE:

bridgewaterms.ocps.net

MIDDLE SCHOOLS

PRINCIPAL: Amy Klaber

MASCOT: Bobcats

MEET THE TEACHER: Sixth grade, 2 to 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8; seventh and eighth grades 9 to 11:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 9.

ENROLLMENT: 1,185

FUN FACT: Bridgewater opened in 2006 as the first middle school in Horizon West.

CHAIN OF LAKES

8700 Conroy-Windermere Road, Orlando

PHONE: (407) 909-5400

WEBSITE: chainoflakesms.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Bob Walker

MASCOT: Ospreys

ENROLLMENT: 1,080

FUN FACT: Chain of Lakes is known for its outstanding performing arts department.

GOTHA

9155 Gotha Road, Windermere

PHONE: (407) 521-2360

WEBSITE: gothams.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Monica Emery

MASCOT: Grizzlies

MEET THE TEACHER: Friday, Aug. 9. Sixth grade, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; seventh and eighth grades, 3 to 5 p.m.

ENROLLMENT: 1,038

HAMLIN

16025 Silver Grove Blvd., Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 993-7420

WEBSITE: hamlinms.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Dr. Suzanne Knight

MASCOT: Coyotes

ENROLLMENT: 860

FUN FACT: Superintendent Dr. Maria Vazquez spoke at the school's dedication ceremony in 2023.

HORIZON WEST

8200 Tattant Blvd., Windermere

PHONE: (407) 554-1570

WEBSITE: horizonwestms.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Michelle Thomas

MASCOT: Hornets

MEET THE TEACHER: 1 to 3 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8, for incoming sixth-graders and students new to the school

ENROLLMENT: 1,374

FUN FACT: Horizon West is expected to be one of the district's largest middle schools and serves one of the largest groups of English for Speakers of other Languages students.

SOUTHWEST

6450 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Orlando

PHONE: (407) 370-7200

WEBSITE: southwestms.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Damian Rosado

MASCOT: Sea Lions

MEET THE TEACHER: 4 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8

ENROLLMENT: 1,340

FUN FACT: The school has the largest student council of any OCPS middle school.

SUNRIDGE

14955 SunRidge Blvd., Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 656-0794

WEBSITE: sunridgems.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Amy McHale

MASCOT: Eagles

LAKEVIEW

1200 W. Bay St., Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 877-5010

WEBSITE: lakeviewms.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: John D. Linehan

MASCOT: Red Devils

ENROLLMENT: 827

FUN FACT: The school previously served as a high school and a junior high school. Lakeview also offers a World Language Academy to its students.

OCOEE

300 S. Bluford Ave., Ocoee

PHONE: (407) 877-5035

WEBSITE: ocoeems.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Cheri Leavitt

MASCOT: Cardinals

ENROLLMENT: 1,187

FUN FACT: Ocoee Middle School was designed as a Demonstration School for the state. It is a one-of-a-kind campus.

CAMPUS WALK: For returning students, noon to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 7

ENROLLMENT: 1,153

FUN FACT: The school has achieved eight district championships since opening in 2012.

WATER SPRING

17000 Water Spring Blvd., Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 554-1822

WEBSITE: waterspringms.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Brian Sanchez Corona

MASCOT: Wildcats

WILDCAT WANDER: For new families, 4:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8

CAPACITY: 844

FUN FACT: This is Water Spring's second year on campus. The 4-year-old school operated for two years on the third floor of Horizon High.

HIGH SCHOOLS

DR. PHILLIPS

6500 Turkey Lake Road, Orlando

PHONE: (407) 355-3200

WEBSITE: drphillipshs.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Jackie Ramsey

MASCOT: Panthers

ENROLLMENT: 2,968

FUN FACT: Dr. Phillips almost was not named as it is today due to a decision made by the School Board to stop naming schools after individuals.

NOTABLE ALUMNI

n Darren Barnet — actor

n Wayne Brady — actor

n Matt Lauria — actor

n Vinicius Machado — actor

n Mekia Cox — actress

n Ashley Eckstein — actress

n Brit Marling — actress

n Valery Ortiz — actress

n Amanda Seale — actress

n Joey Fatone — singer, *NSYNC

n Luis Fonsi — singer, Grammy award winner

n DJ Khaled — singer, producer

n Madison Anderson — Miss Universe 2019 runner-up

n Ha Ha Clinton-Dix — former NFL free safety

n Johnny Damon — former MLB player

HORIZON

10393 Seidel Road, Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 992-0597

WEBSITE: horizonhs.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Andrew Jackson

MASCOT: Hawks

CAPACITY: 2,349

FUN FACT: Horizon High celebrated its first graduating class in 2023.

LAKE BUENA VISTA

11305 Daryl Carter Parkway, Orlando

PHONE: (407) 317-3200

WEBSITE: lakebuenavistahs.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Maricarmen

Aponte

MASCOT: Vipers

CAPACITY: 1,961

FUN FACT: This school was built to relieve Dr. Phillips and Freedom. It also celebrated its first graduating class in 2023.

OCOEE

1925 Ocoee Crown Point Parkway, Ocoee

PHONE: (407) 905-3000

WEBSITE: ocoeehs.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Dr. Frederick Ray

MASCOT: Knights

KNIGHT FEVER: 4 to 7 p.m.

Thursday, Aug. 8

ENROLLMENT: 2,507

FUN FACT: Ocoee's 2024 graduation video went viral, with more than 208,000 views and 30,000 likes on TikTok.

NOTABLE ALUMNI

n Cap Capi — NFL player

n David Efianayi — player in the Israeli Basketball Premier League

n Grant Riller — basketball player for the Delaware Blue Coats of the NBA G League

OLYMPIA

4301 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando

PHONE: (407) 905-6400

WEBSITE: olympiahs.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Christy Gorberg

MASCOT: Titans

ENROLLMENT: 2,942

FUN FACT: Since the school’s opening in 2001, Olympia High has been the pride of the community, where high expectations and parental involvement support the school’s academic and extracurricular programs. This collaborative effort has consistently produced highly successful, exceedingly academic, well-rounded students.

NOTABLE ALUMNI

n Sherwood Brown — professional basketball player

n Deondre Francois — former NCAA quarterback

n Nick Gordon — Miami Marlins outfielder

n Chris Johnson — former NFL running back

n Rashad Lawrence — former NFL and CFL wide receiver

n Leah Lewis — actress

n Michael Lockley — former NFL and CFL linebacker

n Brad Miller — Major League Baseball infielder

Building Healthy Beautiful Smiles

WEST ORANGE HIGH

1625 Beulah Road, Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 905-2400

WEBSITE: westorangehs.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Matthew Turner

MASCOT: Warriors

ENROLLMENT: 2,721

FUN FACT: West Orange High is a true community school that has a large number of parent volunteers donating more than 20,000 hours of service each year.

NOTABLE ALUMNI

n Kane Beatz — music producer

n Nolan Fontana — former MLB infielder for the Los Angeles Angels

n Cori Yarckin — actress and singer

n Sammie — R&B artist

n Austin Gomber — fourth-round pick in the 2014 MLB Draft by the St. Louis Cardinals

n Dexter Williams — former Green Bay Packers running back

n Chris Seise — first-round pick in the 2017 MLB Draft by the Texas Rangers

n Adande Thorne — TrinidadianAmerican YouTuber, sWooZie

WINDERMERE HIGH

5523 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Windermere

PHONE: (407) 347-0980

WEBSITE: windermerehs.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Andrew Leftakis

MASCOT: Wolverines

ENROLLMENT: 3,137

FUN FACT: The campus features technology-integrated classrooms, a state-of-the art media center and a performingarts suite.

OCPS 2024-2025 CALENDAR OTHER SCHOOLS

ORANGE COUNTY VIRTUAL SCHOOL

1600 Silver Star Road, Orlando

PHONE: (407) 317-3327

WEBSITE: ocvs.ocps.net

PRINCIPAL: Brandi Gurley

MASCOT: Chargers

FUN FACT: OCVS was recognized as the 2019 Franchise of the Year by the Florida Virtual School system.

ORANGE TECHNICAL COLLEGE — WESTSIDE

955 E. Story Road, Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 905-2000

WEBSITE: orangetechcollege.net/ campuses/westside

SENIOR DIRECTOR: Scott Weidl

ENROLLMENT: More than 1,400

AUGUST

n Monday, Aug. 12: First day of school

SEPTEMBER

n Monday, Sept. 2: Labor Day holiday (schools and district offices closed)

OCTOBER

n Friday, Oct. 11: End of first marking period n Monday, Oct. 14: Teacher workday/student holiday n Tuesday, Oct. 15: Begin second marking period n Friday, Oct. 25: Teacher professional day/student holiday/ teacher non-workday

NOVEMBER

n Monday through Friday, Nov. 25-29: Thanksgiving Break

DECEMBER

n Friday, Dec. 20: End of second marking period

n Dec. 23 to Jan. 3, 2025: Winter Break

BAD WEATHER MAKE-UP DATES

PRIORITY DATE CURRENT USE

1 Oct. 25 Professional Day

2 Nov. 25 Thanksgiving Break

3 Nov. 26 Thanksgiving Break

4 Nov. 27 Thanksgiving Break

5 Feb. 17, 2025 Presidents Day Holiday

6 March 21, 2025 Spring Break

7 March 20, 2025 Spring Break

8 March 19, 2025 Spring Break

9 March 18, 2025 Spring Break

10 March 17, 2025 Spring Break

JANUARY

n Monday, Jan. 6, 2025: Teacher workday/student holiday n Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025: Students return to school. Begin second semester/third marking period n Monday, Jan. 20, 2025: Martin Luther King Jr. holiday (schools and district offices closed)

FEBRUARY

n Monday, Feb. 17, 2025: Presidents Day holiday (schools closed; district offices open)

MARCH

n Thursday, March 13, 2025: End of third marking period

n Friday, March 14, 2025: Student holiday/teacher workday

n Monday to Friday, March 17 to 21, 2025: Spring Break (schools closed; district offices open) n Monday, March 24, 2025: Begin fourth marking period

MAY

n Monday, May 26, 2025: Memorial Day holiday (schools and district offices closed)

n Friday, May 28, 2025: End of fourth marking period/last day of school for students

n Thursday to Friday, May 29 to 30, 2025: Post-planning for teachers

ORLANDO

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

CENTRAL FLORIDA

CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

700 Good Homes Road, No. 6600, Orlando

PHONE: (407) 850-2322

WEBSITE: cfcaeagles.org

PRINCIPAL: Pam Theobald

MASCOT: Eagles

FUN FACT: The fully accredited prekindergarten-through 12th-grade Christian school is located at the Church at the Cross. The purpose of Central Florida Christian Academy as a ministry of the Church at the Cross is to glorify God by partnering with families to educate, inspire and equip students to know and serve Jesus Christ among all nations by the power of the Holy Spirit.

CONTINUUM MONTESSORI

13205 Reams Road, Suite 132, Windermere

PHONE: (689) 600-4444

WEBSITE: continuummontessori.com

DIRECTOR: Stephanie Yelenosky

FUN FACT: This college and life Montessori prep school will serve first through 12th grades for the 2023-24 school year. Through an authentic, rigorous and forward-thinking Montessori curriculum that incorporates project-based learning, arts and technology integration, and recognized curriculum in math, language, science, and social studies, Continuum students develop habits and skills that enable them to reach their full potential.

THE CRENSHAW ACADEMY

2342 Hempel Ave., Gotha

PHONE: (407) 757-2241

WEBSITE: thecrenshawacademy.com

HEAD OF SCHOOL: Brenda Crenshaw

PRINCIPAL: Tanya Williams

FUN FACT: Brenda Crenshaw is the founder of The Crenshaw School. She developed innovative techniques and an outof-the-box approach to teaching while working as a private instructor to Justin Timberlake and Lance Bass. During this time, she also privately tutored students from Lake Highland, TFA, and other top private and public schools.

THE FIRST ACADEMY

2667 Bruton Blvd., Orlando

PHONE: (407) 206-8600

WEBSITE: thefirstacademy.org

HEAD OF SCHOOL:

Dr. Steve Whitaker

MASCOT: Royals

MEET THE TEACHER: 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 9

FUN FACT: In nearly 40 years, TFA has had three heads of school. Dr. Whitaker has been leading TFA for more than 20 years.

FAMILY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

608 W. Oakland Ave., Oakland

PHONE: (407) 656-7904

WEBSITE: familychristianschool.org

PRINCIPAL: Terri Schneberger

ENROLLMENT: 129

FUN FACT: Family Christian School was established to provide a quality education for its students based upon God’s Word and is designed as an extension of the Christian family.

FOUNDATION ACADEMY

Upper School: 15304 Tilden Road, Winter Garden; Lower School: 125 E. Plant St., Winter Garden; Lakeside Campus: 8464 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Orlando

PHONE: Upper School: (407) 877-2744; Lower School: (407) 656-3677; Lakeside Campus: (407) 204-9672

WEBSITE: foundationacademy.net

PRINCIPALS: Sarah Reynolds, Upper School; Jackie Conover, Lower School, Plant Street Campus; Amanda Donaho, Lower School, Lakeside Campus

MASCOT: Lions

FUN FACT: Foundation leaders celebrated the groundbreaking of the school’s new cafeteria, worship center and 40,000-square-foot classroom building in April at its Tilden campus. The school also offers Foundation Academy Virtual Learning, a division that provides families with virtual options for students in grades six through 12.

HOLY FAMILY

CATHOLIC SCHOOL

5129 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando

PHONE: (407) 876-9344

WEBSITE: hfcschool.com

PRINCIPAL:

Michael Kavanagh

MASCOT: Lions

FUN FACT: Throughout the year, Holy Family Catholic School’s students participate in numerous charity events, such as food drives and fundraisers, to help those in need through the Catholic Charities organization.

LIGHT CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Main Campus: 1105 N. Lakewood Ave., Ocoee; South Campus: 2450 Citrus Oaks Ave., Gotha PHONE: (407) 656-6314

WEBSITE: mylcac.com

PRINCIPAL:

Bishop Thomas Odom

MASCOT: Sharks

FUN FACT: Light Christian Academy began in 2009 as a ministry of Ocoee Church of God. From an initial enrollment of fewer than 20 students, the school has grown to minister to more than 200 students each day across three campuses in two counties. The academy, which utilizes a combination of ACE and Abeka curricula, has been recognized as a Model Status school by Accelerated Christian Education each year since 2011.

MONTVERDE ACADEMY

17235 Seventh St., Montverde PHONE: (407) 469-2561

WEBSITE: montverde.org

HEADMASTER: Jon Hopman

MASCOT: Eagles

FUN FACT: Founded in 1912, Montverde Academy’s journey from a two-room schoolhouse to the globally recognized college preparatory school of today has been extraordinary.

The academy has been privileged to have prepared students from across the United States and around the world for their journey to higher education and beyond. Montverde’s mission is to inspire students to become leaders with a passion for knowledge, global vision and innovation while developing character in a nurturing and diverse community.

PLURIS ACADEMY

11520 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando PHONE: (407) 420-0038

WEBSITE: plurisacademy.com

PRINCIPAL: Gabriela Roberti

FUN FACT: Pluris Academy was born with the purpose of offering "garages," where students can become effective problem-solvers. Its founders believe problem-solving skills are essential and applicable in various areas of life. The school opened in 2023.

VICTORY

CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

1601 A.D. Mims Road, Ocoee PHONE: (407) 656-1295

WEBSITE: vcaocoee.org/the-academy

PRINCIPAL: Jason Davis

FUN FACT: This year marks Victory Christian Academy’s 38th anniversary. Victory Christian Academy exclusively uses A Beka Book curriculum throughout every grade level. This curriculum is presented from a Christian perspective while allowing students not only to master facts but also to develop their reasoning ability.

WINDERMERE PREPARATORY SCHOOL

6189 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Windermere

PHONE: (407) 905-7737

WEBSITE: windermereprep.com

HEAD OF SCHOOL:

Dr. Mitchell Salerno

MASCOT: Lakers

FUN FACT: This is the 22nd anniversary of the school. The school's student body represents more than 55 nationalities spanning the Early Years and all of K-12 education, and the school also operates an exchange

WINTER GARDEN

CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

305 Beulah Road, Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 877-7735

WEBSITE: wgcacademy.org

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR:

Pastor Clark Rivas

MASCOT: Panthers

MEET THE TEACHER: 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8

ENROLLMENT: 64

FUN FACT: This is the school’s first year and will offer instruction to kindergarten through thirdgrade students.

student program called The Residential Life. Through this, exchange student are able to live in a townhome community in Horizon West while they attend Windermere Prep.

SPECIAL-NEEDS PROGRAMS

Students with special needs benefit from area's programs

The West Orange and Southwest Orange County area offers several noteworthy options for those seeking education for their loved ones with special needs.

Did you know Orange County Public Schools alone serves a total of 34,368 students in Exceptional Student Education, with 11,748 of those students receiving gifted services in accordance with their Individualized Education Program?

Although ESE services are available at all publicschool sites throughout the district, other unique programs may offer a better fit for those exploring alternative options.

For example, the Pathways for Life Academy incorporates core academics with real-life application through a therapydriven learning approach. The organization believes integrating life and social skills in the curriculum has a positive impact on the students when they leave school. Whether students leave and go to college, get a job or go to a technical school, the skills help the individual to become a valuable member of their community and help broaden their motivation to be included in all areas of life.

Another popular program, The First Hope, offers a Christian alternative to unique abilities education. Run through The First Academy, the school offers a unique approach to teaching students with various learning needs academically, cognitively and spiritually.

ABELS ACADEMY

350 Acceptance Way, Clermont

PHONE: (352) 223-1999

WEBSITE: abelsacademy. com

DIRECTOR: Stephanie Hutchinson

FUN FACT: The Florida Department of Education has approved ABELS Academy to accept the Family Empowerment Scholarship.

THE FIRST HOPE

2667 Bruton Blvd., Orlando

PHONE: (407) 206-8801

WEBSITE: thefirstacademy. org/academics/first-hope

DIRECTOR: Angel Alexander

FUN FACT: The First Hope offers a unique approach to teaching students with ADHD/ADD, dyslexia, ASD, dysgraphia, anxiety, intellectual disabilities, specific learning disabilities and other unique abilities.

HOUSE OF ACADEMIA

1150 Elboc Way, Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 473-3187

WEBSITE: houseofacademia.com

PRINCIPAL: Sophia Khan

FUN FACT: This school follows four pillars: Fair Assessment, Individualized Program, Least Restrive Environment and Parental Involvement.

PATHWAYS FOR LIFE ACADEMY

1450 Citrus Oaks Ave., Gotha

PHONE: (407) 723-0030

WEBSITE: pflacademy.com

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR/ PRESIDENT: Patty Myers

FUN FACT: Pathways for Life is a private middle and high school that supports students to excel in all areas of academics, life application and social skills integration in a therapydriven and positive environment. Students go shopping and cook together weekly.

UCP CENTRAL FLORIDA — WEST ORANGE CAMPUS

1441 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Winter Garden

PHONE: (407) 904-0135

WEBSITE: ucpcfl.org

PRINCIPAL: Mischa King

FUN FACT: The school moved to a new campus in 2021.

CHARTER SCHOOLS

HOPE CHARTER/ LEGACY CHARTER HIGH

1550 E. Crown Point Road, Ocoee

PHONE: (407) 656-4673

WEBSITE: hopecharter.org

PRINCIPAL: Christina Hunt, Hope; Maurio Medley, Legacy

MASCOT: Eagles

ENROLLMENT: Legacy, 190; Hope, 407

FUN FACT: Hope Charter School was founded in 2000 and started educating students in 2001.

INNOVATION

MONTESSORI OCOEE

Main campus, 1644 N. Lakewood Ave.; high school, 1475 Silver Star Road

PHONE: (407) 601-3950

WEBSITE: innovationmontessori.com

PRINCIPAL: K-8, Patrice Cherico; high school, John Charles Pagnotti Jr.

MASCOT: Owls

MEET YOUR TEACHER:

Wednesday, Aug. 7, main campus primary and elementary, 5-6 p.m. grades 1- 3, and 6-7 p.m. grades 4-6; Thursday, Aug. 8, main campus primary, 5-5:30 p.m., pre-K3 and VPK, and 6-6:30 p.m. kindergarten; Thursday, Aug. 8, high school campus, 5-6 p.m. grades 7-9, and 6-7 p.m. grades 10-12.

ENROLLMENT: 923

FUN FACT: At the high school, 20 murals have been designed and painted by students as part of the mural committee. This is an ongoing project for all interested students to embellish the learning spaces.

OAKLAND AVENUE

CHARTER SCHOOL

456 E. Oakland Ave., Oakland

PHONE: (407) 877-2039

WEBSITE: oaklandfl.gov

PRINCIPAL: Pamela Dwyer

MASCOT: Eagles

MEET THE TEACHER: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 6

ENROLLMENT: 518

FUN FACT: OACS has its own school "pledge" and school song.

RENAISSANCE CHARTER SCHOOL AT CROWN POINT 83 West Road, Ocoee PHONE: (407) 573-1080

WEBSITE: crownpointcharter.org

PRINCIPAL: Brett E. Taylor

MASCOT: Royals

BACK-TO-SCHOOL NIGHTS: K through third grade, 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 6; fourth through eighth grades, 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 7

ENROLLMENT: 1,180

FUN FACT: RCCP is a college and career readiness school.