LOCAL MOTION
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KNOW A PROBST
I
We love living local!
In September, the Observer Media Group will celebrate the 120th anniversary of the West Orange Times & Observer — which published its first edition on Sept. 13, 1905, as the Winter Garden Ricochet
As you can imagine, in those 120 years, our reporters, photographers and editors have seen quite a bit. We were there when both the city of Ocoee and the town of Windermere were established. We saw Walt Disney World come out of the ground. We watched as downtown Winter Garden blossomed into the jewel it is today. And yes, we have chronicled the entire history of Horizon West.
It is with that strong legacy of serving as our community's newspaper of record that I present to you our 2025-26 edition of Local Motion: An Insider’s Guide to Living in West Orange County
This is the largest and most
ambitious edition to date. And whether you're brand new to our area or have a street named after your family, I am certain you will learn something new about our community in these pages. In this, our annual love letter for West Orange and Southwest Orange, you'll find complete guides to Winter Garden, Horizon West, Ocoee, Windermere, Oakland, Dr. Phillips and Gotha. You'll meet local leaders, discover hidden gems, find 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 2025-26 Back to School guide. To stay connected, make sure to grab copies of our newspapers; bookmark OrangeObserver.com; and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X (search for Orange Observer).
— MICHAEL ENG
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LOCAL MOTION 2025-2026
PRESIDENT Emily Walsh
EDITOR AND PUBLISHER
Michael Eng
EDITORIAL
Senior Editor Liz Ramos
Sports Editor Sam Albuquerque
Staff Writer Leticia Silva
Design Editor Jess Eng
ADVERTISING
Sales Manager
Cyndi Gustafson
Multimedia
Advertising Executives
Iggy Collazo
Mady Solomon
Advertising Operations Manager
Allison Brunelle
CREATIVE SERVICES
Graphic Designer Sarah Santiago
LOCAL MOTION is produced by Observer Media Group
661 Garden Commerce Parkway, Suite 180 Winter Garden, FL 34787 Phone: (407) 656-2121
COVER ART:
Local photographer Kassondra Gustafson, of Black + Bay Photography, captured this photo of a beautiful dragonfly. View more of her work at blackandbay.mypixieset.com.
WINTER GARDEN
Ackowledging the Past, Embracing the Future
What was once fertile farmland is now a popular Central Florida destination.
Winter Garden always has found a way to blend its history with its bright future, preserving what residents cherish while drawing in new residents with new restaurants and businesses.
It once was a sea of orange trees. The citrus industry dominated the charming town as settlers began arriving in the area by the 1850s. The land bordering Lake Apopka was where citrus and vegetable crops were grown, and settlers began to claim Winter Garden as home.
With the two railroad lines that ran through the city came a growing business district by the 19th century. Commercial buildings were rebuilt with brick after two fires destroyed the wooden buildings and packinghouses that stood along Main and Plant streets.
In 1903, Winter Garden was established, followed by its incorporation as a city in 1908.
By 1920, the city's population reached more than 1,000 people. Over 100 years later, more than 50,000 people are calling this Hallmark-esque city home.
Winter Garden's rapid development slowed in the late 1960s as Lake Apopka became severely polluted. Construction of major highways in the area drew businesses away from the once-booming downtown.
In true Winter Garden resilience, the city's architectural heritage remained intact. The West Orange Trail brought thousands of visitors back downtown, patronizing the new shops and restaurants.
The history of Winter Garden shines bright on Plant Street through the Winter Garden Heritage Museum with the historic train depot sitting outside. The iconic clock tower draws the eye directly down Plant Street.
Locally owned shops such as Ms. Bee's Popcorn Shoppe and Scoops Old Fashioned Ice Cream continue to be hot spots. Entertainment venues such as Garden Theatre and Pilars, as well as an eclectic mix of restaurants, make the downtown district a popular destination.
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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
Visit www.cwgdn.com/ for more information on employment opportunities.
Plan your taxes. Change your life.
WINTER GARDEN
SIGNATURE EVENTS
Winter Garden Heritage & Music Festival. This annual free event, held in February, is a mega outdoor concert that provides 11 hours of live entertainment across multiple stages throughout historic downtown.
Spring Fever in the Garden. Presented by the Bloom & Grow Garden Society, Winter Garden's annual 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.
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 spectacular fireworks display on Lake Apopka.
Winter Garden Halloween Experience. This multi-day event includes a hay maze, holiday-themed 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.
Light Up Winter Garden. One of the hallmark events of the holiday season, thousands head to Plant Street each year for the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree and to enjoy the festivities.
NOTABLE NAMES
n Juanita Coney Maxey and William Maxey have several buildings throughout Winter Garden named in their honor. On the corner of Story Road and Ninth Street sits Maxey Elementary School. Mrs. Maxey was a prominent educator and resident in east Winter Garden. She became the first African American woman to vote in Winter Garden in the 1930s. The Maxey Community Center at 830 Klondike Ave. also bears their name.
n Mildred Dixon made history in Winter Garden as the first elected woman and first elected African American to the Winter Garden City Commission, on which she served on and off from 1985 to 1992 and again from 2001 until her death in 2006. She also was the first African American to serve in any political position in West Orange County.
n The main street through the heart of downtown Winter Garden is Plant Street, named after Henry Bradley Plant. Plant
(1819-1899) was the founder and president of the Plant System of railways, steamship lines and hotels. He also organized and served as the president of Plant Investment Company, Plant Improvement Company, Southern Express Company and Texas Express Company.
n Known for her philanthropy and volunteerism, Barbara Roper immersed herself into the community she started calling home in 1950. She taught first grade at the original Tildenville School for several years and was a founding member of the West Orange Junior Service League, serving as president in 1957. Roper helped establish the West Orange YMCA in Winter Garden after years of involvement in the YMCA of Central Florida. In 2004, she and her husband, Bert Roper, donated $1 million toward the expansion of the facility. The building was renamed the Roper YMCA Family Center.
WINTER GARDEN
LOCAL LEADERS
Mayor John Rees
Rees is a lifelong resident of Winter Garden and has served as mayor of Winter Garden for 17 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 eight years and formerly served on the city’s Architectural Review Board. Bennett said Winter Garden is unique because it's a community with heart. "We care about our neighbors and love our town," she said. But the hidden gems of the city for her are the parks on Lake Apopka. Residents constantly are at the parks to watch a beautiful sunset, play in the grass or take in nature. "We live in such a beautiful place, so it's easy to love our hometown," she said.
District 2 Commissioner Iliana Ramos Jones
Jones, who has called Winter Garden home for more than 25 years, is in her first term serving the city. Her term expires in March 2028. 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. On any given Friday night, she loves sampling the fine cuisine that historic downtown Winter Garden offers.
District 3 Commissioner Chloe Johnson
Johnson is in her first year serving the city. She made history by becoming the youngest woman to serve on the Winter Garden City Commission. 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.
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. Williams considers Tucker Ranch Park and the Nature Trail to be the hidden gems of Winter Garden.
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
WINTER GARDEN
Walking down Plant Street in downtown Winter Garden, there is a plethora of restaurants that will make any date night one to remember.
The downtown corridor accommodates all, whether you're walking, coming from a bike ride on the West Orange Trail or taking advantage of the free parking.
If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, take a stroll over to AJ's Pizza Joint, an artisan pizza restaurant with options for indoor, outdoor or bar seating to dive into a scrumptious pie. The restaurant is located in the heart
of Plant Street at 42 W. Plant St. Whether it's a classic pizza such as John's Pepperoni Pie or building your own pie, there's something for everyone.
However, if you’re looking for a more elevated experience, we suggest Matthew’s Steakhouse.
We recommend starting with the Cheese Board before moving on to your steak of choice.
Is any date night really complete without dessert? Head to Scoops
Old Fashioned Ice Cream at 99 W. Plant St. The new owners of the ice cream shop are keeping with the 17year legacy that came before them.
Nestled in the lobby of the Edgewater Hotel, Scoops brings you back in time, even if only through an ordering window for now. Enjoy the multitude of flavors in a classic cone, waffle cone or cup.
Not ready to call it a night? Head over to Pilar's Loft at 146 W. Plant St. for live music and a nightcap. The venue offers a blend of martinis, mixology and food to go along with its variety of events, such as Open Mic Nights on Thursdays and Jazz Jam sessions on Sundays.
— LIZ RAMOS
Price Point: $50200
AJ'S PIZZA JOINT
n AJ's Garlic *Nots, $9 n Meatball Trio, $13
n John's Pepperoni Pie, $22 for 18 inch
MATTHEW’S STEAKHOUSE
n Cheese Board, $32
n Center Cut Filet (6 oz.), $59
n Ribeye (18 oz.), $78
SCOOPS OLD
FASHIONED ICE CREAM
n Two, two-scoop waffle cones, $10
HORIZON WEST
Feel the Village Vibe
From master plan to masterpiece, Horizon West’s villages come together to make a unique community.
The Horizon West community is the perfect representation of the old saying, "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade."
But in this case, it’s more like, “When life takes away your oranges, develop one of the most desirable and unique communities in the entire country."
Just as most of the land in West Orange and Southwest Orange, the area that now comprises the Horizon West area used to be home to thousands of acres of citrus groves. But as a series of freezes in the 1980s devastated those groves, it forced most of the area’s citrus producers to relocate to the warmer climate of South Florida.
As a result, conversations began about how to develop the area where the former orange groves were. That’s when landowners in the area met to devise a development plan for the area and began work with Orange County leaders in 1993. Their objective was to avoid urban sprawl and create a master plan that approached the management of the area’s growth and development in a sustainable way. The landowners — Horizon West Inc. — enlisted the services of VHB MillerSellen to turn their vision into a sector plan. On June 5, 1995, Orange County approved the framework of the plan — which included the project concept, design standards and a planning overlay — and the master-planned community was on its way.
With the principles of Ebenezer Howard’s Garden Cities model — which influenced the preliminary design of independent, self-sustaining villages — and new urbanism guiding its development, Horizon West has grown into one of the most unique and desirable communities in all of Central Florida, for both residents and
LOCAL LEADER
It has been a delight to see this community develop a distinct sense of character as it grows. Whether you visit the local farmer’s market or one of several annual festivals, you’ll find good people who truly care about the present and future of their community. Soon, Horizon West will be home to a 215-acre regional park with an Orange County library right next door. Once complete, this will serve as a cultural hub for a community ready to enjoy it.
— 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) 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
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 farm-inspired 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.
Christmas at Hamlin: A Festival of Traditions. Of course, no community would be complete without a Christmas celebration.
businesses. The goal for Horizon West was to create a village development pattern that preserved large quantities of open space and leaned on public and private partnerships to help provide community amenities and public infrastructure.
Horizon West’s design separates the community into six villages — Lakeside, Bridgewater, Town Center, Village F (Seidel area), Hickorynut and Ovation — with each village being typically designed to include two to four neighborhoods, which are set up around the community’s schools and parks, with a village center.
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.
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 real-estate 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.
Lakeside Village is the easternmost portion of Horizon West and surrounds the Reams Road area, behind Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. Village F, one of the more central portions of Horizon West, also backs up to Magic Kingdom. The Village of Bridgewater is located in the northeast portion of Horizon West while Ovation sits in Horizon West’s southernmost area. Hickorynut Village hugs the western side of State Road 429 and gives way to Town Center. Also known as Hamlin or Hamlin Town Center, this area is designed to be the largest commercial area of Horizon West and is surrounded by residential neighborhoods.
With its masterful planning and design — that ensures any new development contributes to the area’s unique sense of place, focus on environmental protection, architectural style, quality pedestrian environments and community spaces — Horizon West has become one of the fastest-growing master-planned communities in the nation. In total, the area has been approved for 40,282 units, making the projected population at buildout 100,705.
Horizon West has continued to see a variety of exciting developments, including a number of unique restaurants and shops, entertainment venues and the opening of Orlando College of Osteopathic Medicine’s $75 million, 144,000-square-foot campus.
Date Night HORIZON WEST
Price Point: $350
SIMPLY CAPRI
n Insalata di Capri, $18
n Capricciosa Pizza, $24
n Potate Gratinate, $11
n Raspbellini cocktail, $17
n Florida Sunset Mocktail, $8
n Cannolo Bicolore, $13
URBAN AIR
n Tickets vary from $29.99 to $49.99 per person
KELLY'S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM
n Six-Scoop Ice Cream Flight ($14.90)
Of course, date nights don't only have to be for couples.
If you live in Horizon West, chances are, you have a growing family. Luckily, the community is chock full of fun for adults and children alike (and no, you don't need a Disney annual pass for any of it)!
If you're looking to tire out the kiddos and get in a little cardio at the same time, head over to Urban Air in Hamlin Town Center. This indoor adventure park is a great destination for family fun. Kids and kids-at-heart can explore its thrilling attractions while challenging their bodies and minds.
Tickets vary from $29.99 to $49.99.
Throughout Horizon West's villages, there are plenty of restaurants to try, and most of them have kid friendly options on their menus. For a special night out, though, we recommend Simply Capri. Located in Flamingo Crossings Village, this Italian restaurant brings the best of
cocktail is refreshing, tasty and sure to complement any dish.
the Amalfi Coast to the area.
The menu features wood-fired pizza, house-made pastas, classic meat and seafood dishes, fresh salads, modern cocktails and beverages. Furthermore, Simply Capri has an elegant yet comfortable atmosphere perfect for a family outing.
We recommend starting with the restaurant’s Insalata di Capri ($18). Served with arugula, cucumbers, green olives, cantaloupes and caramelized walnuts topped with a honey-lemon vinaigrette, it is light and delicious.
For entrées, try Simply Capri’s Capricciosa Pizza ($24), with mozzarella, artichokes, black olives, mushrooms and parmacotto ham. It’s a delicious Italian-flavored pizza that will wow your whole family.
If you want to try the restaurant’s cocktails, we recommend the Raspbellini ($17), made with Absolut Raspberry vodka, Prosecco, raspberry fruits and lemon sour. This
For the kids, Simply Capri also offers mocktails, such as the Florida Sunset ($8), made with freshly squeezed orange juice, grenadine and lemon sour.
For dessert, the restaurant is sure to surprise you with its options. We recommend trying the cannolo bicolore ($13), a pastry shell with pistachio and ricotta cream. This creamy and delicious dessert is the perfect dish to finish off your visit to Simply Capri.
However, if those options don't catch your eye (or you're the sort of family that might need two desserts from time to time), stop by either Abbott’s Frozen Custard (Hamlin Town Center), Kelly's Homemade Ice Cream (Bridgewater Crossings) or Bruster's Real Ice Cream (Windermere Village). Kelly's is one of our favorites, and its six-scoop ice cream flight ($14.90) is a great way to end the evening.
— LETICIA SILVA
PLANT the seeds of curiosity WATER the stories that shaped us GROW future generations
At the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation, you will step into a world where history thrives, and community bonds grow stronger. Experience captivating exhibits, fun-filled events, and programs that inspire the next generation. Together, let’s celebrate our shared legacy!
A Century of Good Living OCOEE
The city of Ocoee has seen a lot of changes over the past 100 years, growing from a small agricultural settlement — focused on citrus and vegetable farming — into a place to live, work and play. In doing so, it has more than earned its nickname — ”The Center of Good Living.”
Originally settled following the Civil War, the Town of Ocoee was recognized as a municipality by the Florida Legislature in 1921, before officially becoming a city in May 1925. Named after a river in Tennessee, the word "Ocoee" comes from the Cherokee language and means apricot vine, or, as we know it today, the passion flower.
During the township's early settlement in the mid-1800s — with most of its 820 or so residents living adjacent to Starke Lake — Confederate Capt. Bluford M. Sims purchased the land that now comprises most of modern-day downtown Ocoee and established America’s first citrus nursery, planting the seeds of Ocoee’s roots as an agricultural hub. In the same time period, the township’s first school was established. A three-sided hut was constructed on Floral Street in 1880, with Mrs. E. D. Perkins serving as the school’s first teacher.
Later that decade, following the completion of the Florida Midland Railroad, the small town started to see a population boom as settlers came to take advantage of the available farmland and lucrative citrus groves.
As Ocoee’s identity has grown beyond its agricultural roots and into "The Center of Good Living,” it is now the third-largest city in Orange County. And thanks to developments in recent years such as the revitalization and reimagination of its downtown core, the opening of new public parks and the construction of The Dynasty | Ocoee — a $1 billion regional sports complex, slated to begin sometime in 2025 — it’s easy to understand why people are flocking to this West Orange gem.
The past 100 years has seen the city of Ocoee blossom into a gem in West Orange.
WELCOME TO OCOEE
As mayor, I invite each of you to visit Ocoee and see for yourself why it is such a desirable place to live, work and play.
The widening of Clarke Road, a much-needed upgrade to our road system, has been completed. We are also repairing and re-
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 Fireworks Display. This annual event at Bill Breeze Park features a community market, live music and games, and ends with a fireworks show over Starke Lake.
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) 862-9343; 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) 905-3160
n Solid waste: (407) 905-3170
n Utilities (water, sewer): (407) 905-3159
surfacing streets in the city, as well as continued sidewalk repairs and replacements. Improvements to drainage and water lines is ongoing.
Oakland Avenue, a crucial part of the downtown revitalization, is more than 75% complete. It
includes a landscape trail in the median.
The year 2025 marks 100 years since Ocoee was officially incorporated as a city. A full century of stories, of families building lives, of businesses taking root, of neighbors helping neighbors.
The city marked this with a time capsule buried on the
LOCAL LEADERS
Mayor Rusty Johnson
grounds of the Withers-Maguire House. This milestone is marked with joy, gratitude and vision for what comes next.
Together, we will continue to build a community that is welcoming, resilient and full of opportunity for all.
— Mayor Rusty Johnson
A resident of Ocoee for more than 60 years, Johnson has served the public for most of his life. After his time serving in the U.S. Army, the Vietnam War veteran has held public office since 1986 and was elected mayor of the West Orange city in 2015. Johnson’s current term as mayor, his third full term in the role, runs until 2027. He has announced that he will seek reelection for a fourth and final term as mayor.
Mayor Pro-Tem,
District 1 Commissioner Scott Kennedy Kennedy moved to Ocoee with his wife, Mellita Kennedy, more than two decades ago. He has volunteered in public service roles prior to his election to the commission in 2023. He served as the president of the Forestbrooke homeowners’ association, vice chair of Ocoee’s Planning and Zoning Commission and as a member of the city’s Human Relations Diversity Board.
Commissioner Rosemary Wilsen
Wilsen has been a resident of Ocoee since 1997 and has served on numerous boards and committees. Prior to her election to the commission in 2009, Wilsen worked for the Christian Service Center in Ocoee for 28 years. Her current term runs until 2029.
District 3 Commissioner Richard Firstner
Firstner, a resident of Ocoee for more than two decades, served as the city’s fire chief for 14 years before retiring in 2009. Overall, Firstner has spent 35 years working in public safety. Originally elected to the commission in 2016, Firstner’s current term runs until 2027.
District 4 Commissioner George Oliver III
Oliver, a veteran of the U.S. Navy and resident of Ocoee for more than two decades, became the first African American to be elected to the District 4 seat on the Ocoee City Commission in 2018. Oliver’s current term runs until 2029.
City Manager Craig Shadrix
Appointed to the position of City Manager in 2024, Shadrix spent the previous 14 years serving as Ocoee’s assistant city manager. He joined the city’s staff in 2008. Prior to his time with Ocoee, he served as a regional planning manager for Glatting Jackson. Shadrix also was inducted into the Central Florida Youth Football & Cheer Hall of Fame in 2024.
NOTABLE NAMES
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 J.G. Tyson was Ocoee’s first preacher.
n Capt. Bluford M. Sims, a native of Tennessee who served in the Confederacy, purchased much of the land that comprises modern-day downtown Ocoee and established the United States’ first citrus nursery. He also served as contractor for the first framed courthouse in Orlando.
n James D. Starke moved to the Ocoee area around 1850 and established citrus groves between what is now known as Starke Lake and Apopka.
n Dr. H.K. Clarke, Charles J. Chunn and R.B.F. Roper created the Town of Ocoee subdivision in 1886.
n Hoyle Pounds eventually moved his business to Winter Garden, but originally, the Pounds Motor Company operated in Ocoee from 1914-20.
Date Night
Price Point: $75
OCOEE
Everyone has his or her dream of an ideal date night. Maybe that includes drinks and dinner, or spending time outdoors. In Ocoee, you can find wonderful venues that combine those aspects, all for$75 or less.
We recommend starting your evening on a sweet note at DG Doughnuts, 29 W. McKey St. The family owned doughnut shop is guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth with its homemade treats. The business, which started in a home kitchen, has become an Ocoee favorite.
As you walk into the cozy shop, your eyes will gravitate toward the array of pastries behind the glass. DG offers a variety of fancy and classic doughnuts, fritters, muffins and cook-
ies, but we recommend the top seller: the Boston cream. DG Doughnuts elevates the classic treat by garnishing the vanilla custard filled doughnut with chocolate whipped cream .
Either enjoy your treat in house or take a six-minute walk down to Bill Breeze Park. The park is home to Florida’s wildlife and gives people the opportunity to be present in nature.
After enjoying the sweet, what’s better than some light-hearted competition? GameTime offers just that. Located at 9441 W. Colonial Drive, the arcade has more than 120 games with classics such as air hockey and even bowling. Before heading out, don’t forget to stop by the prize counter and cash in tickets for goodies.
Finally, we recommend checking out one of Ocoee's newest ventures, The Backyard, 2214 West Road. Owners, Josh and Andrea Halperin created a place where couples, families and friends can come together to enjoy a large-scale backyard party. Inside the wood grain fence, visitors step into a world with food, drinks and outdoor activities.
The Backyard features six different food trucks, all picked because of the unique flavors they bring to the plate; Cluckers Chicken, Pizza Culture, Smash Dunk, Taito Sushi, TBG BBQ and A Lo Cubano Kitchen.
Guests can even try different drinks from the self-serve 24-tap bar made up of drinks from hyper-local, local and national breweries.
To order, guests scan a QR code on their phone. The code directs them to an ordering system for all six trucks and allows them to hook up their phone to the tap bar. All of the orders are built onto one tab and guests get a text when the food is ready, allowing them to sit back, relax and enjoy conversations.
The laid-back environment is ideal for any new couples who are trying to learn about each other for the first time. While enjoying the food and drinks, they can relax in the hammocks strung between trees, tables on the patio or outdoor loungers.
— MEGAN BRUINSMA
DG DOUGHNUTS
n Boston creme, $5.25
GAMETIME
n All access card with 100 credits, $25
THE BACKYARD
n Pizza Culture: I Heart Veggies, $18 n TBG BBQ: Build-your-own BBQ platter, one protein: $18.99
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527 Main Street, Windermere
CELEBRATING MILESTONES
100 Years on the Lakes
Although Windermere was incorporated in 1925, the town's history dates further back.
Windermere was home to the Timucua Indians until Spanish settlers moved into the area in the 1500s. The United States purchased the eastern half of Florida from Spain in 1821, and by 1845, Florida became the country's 27th state.
That's when the U.S. Government was offering 160 acres of land to anyone willing to cultivate five acres and build a cabin.
On the shore of Lake Butler, Englishman Dr. Stanley Scott, whose father purchased 160 acres in 1885 in Windermere, built his home. Many believe he called the home Windermere in honor of the famous Lake Windermere in England.
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.
Although the town was established as a residential development in 1889, it wasn't until Cal Palmer and J. Howard Johnson came along in 1910 and bought about 2,000 acres for $10,000.
Palmer and Johnson then created the Windermere Improvement Company, playing a crucial role in the town's development.
Fast-forward to 1925, and Palmer, Johnson and Howard Lyon incorporated the town of Windermere. Palmer’s office building — completed in 1911 — still stands today, as does the historic 1887 Schoolhouse.
Over the years, the town began to take shape and grow. By 1960, the population had increased to 593 residents from the 153 residents in 1930.
New buildings — including a clubhouse, more school rooms, a library and a renovated Town Hall — were added. The Cal Palmer Building located on the corner of West Fifth Avenue and Main Street became Windermere's first post office and served as the ad hoc seat for government from Windermere's incorporation until Windermere Town Council moved into the Town Hall in 1945.
Now, 100 years later, the 2.2-mile town proper of Windermere and the
What started out as a small fishing village has turned into a century of life ‘Among the Lakes.’
Windermere area at large is celebrating its centennial with more than 3,500 residents. The town hosted a classic country fair and unveiled a time capsule that was buried in 1975 in front of Town Hall.
Windermere Town Council, town staff and residents are working to preserve the history of the town while charting the path of the future.
SIGNATURE EVENTS
Windermere Wine & Dine. Tickets have been known to sell out in mere hours for this annual celebration of food and wine.
Easter Egg Extravaganza. The Windermere Police Department escorts the Easter Bunny in a short parade before the hunt is on with children of all ages searching for candy-filled eggs.
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 ceremony 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) 8629343; 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 was elected mayor in 2019 and is honored to be the mayor during the town's centennial. His favorite memory from the past year was celebrating the centennial during the unveiling of the town's time capsule.
Town Council Member Mandy David David is serving her third term for the town of Windermere. David said Windermere is unique for its charm, the dirt roads, trees and the fact someone can't walk down the streets without somebody saying hello. "I just love the close-knit charm," she said.
Town Council Member Tony Davit Davit is serving his third term on the council. For him, the perfect Friday night in Windermere consists of a car show on food truck night. "That would be a double whammy for me," he said. "I'm kind of a motorhead myself." But the can't-miss event in Windermere every year for Davit is the Windermere Wine & Dine.
Town Council Member Tom Stroup Stroup is serving his second 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. He said the perfect place to go on any evening in Windermere is out on the dock to look at the sunset. Whether it's on Lake Down as the rowers go by or Lake Butler, the sunset is perfect.
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, family-oriented 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 and U.S. Army 1st Lt. Evan Fitzgibbon was killed in 2022 during a Ranger School training incident. Old Glory, a patriotic horse statue, stands in town square as a dedicated permanent memorial to Fitzgibbon.
n Carl Patterson's passion for the town's history began while serving as mayor. Patterson, who lived in Windermere from 1978 until his death in 2006, wrote "Windermere Among the Lakes — The Story of a Small Town."
Thirty years before the town of Oakland was incorporated, James Gamble Speer settled in the area and in 1857 acquired a large piece of land between Lake Apopka and Johns Lake.
Oakland was officially incorporated as a town in 1887. The area is known for its beautiful location on the south shore of Lake Apopka, as well as its breathtaking oak trees.
The town of Oakland has a rich history of agriculture and railroads and was running well before its designation as a town.
Nearly 130 years ago, the town of Oakland was the social and industrial hub of West Orange.
History and Heritage OAKLAND
Having the Orange Belt Railroad’s headquarters located at the town of Oakland and later a citrus golden age, the town thrived socially and industrially, which brought residents and businesses to the area.
A severe freeze in 1894-95 killed most of the citrus groves, leaving the Orange Belt Line with almost no freight to ship. Shortly after the freeze, the firm leased its lines to another railroad company and closed down stores and shops built by the railroad.
Ultimately, Oakland settled back as a quiet agricultural community.
Today, the town of Oakland still features the delightful scenery from back then, but it incorporates a small-town vibe, with about 3,635 residents as of the 2023 census.
Friendly neighbors and caring residents who carry the history of the town and want to preserve the surrounding areas is what the town thrives on now.
Oakland maintains much of its historical charm with buildings like the original bank, now Historic Town Hall, and remnants of the old railroad, which were once the heart of the place.
A 121-year-old site for the first schoolhouse of Oakland still stands today, preserving all as it once was.
In 2021, the town celebrated the opening of the Healthy West Orange Arts and Heritage Center. The town now uses this venue to preserve Oakland’s past, celebrate its present and embrace its future with rotating exhibitions featuring local artists. Community events at the center include Music on the Porch and Trees of the Season.
Although it continues to grow as more and more people move into the area, the town is dedicated to preserving its smalltown way of living, and its residents are proud of its quiet, old-Florida nature and friendly feel.
The town of Oakland is a shining example of small-town Florida living.
WELCOME TO OAKLAND
Oakland has a rich history that few people are aware of.
Founded in 1887, it was a town that at one time was the epicenter of West Orange County with a vibrant downtown district, which included a hardware store, hotel, opera house, two railroads, station house and unique citizens.
Although most of the structures of the past are no longer visible, the history is still there. When you explore our history, you get a sense of how interesting Oakland really is.
— Mayor Shane Taylor
SIGNATURE EVENTS
Farmers Market. Held on the second and fourth Thursdays, this market features local vendors offering fresh produce, specialty items, homemade food, and arts and crafts.
Oakland Heritage Day. The festival celebrates Oakland’s small-town charm, history, nature, wellness and arts with a day full of live music, food trucks, arts and crafts and more.
Nature Fest Open House. The annual event at the Oakland Nature Preserve offers animal interactions, guided hikes, tours on Lake Apopka by boat and educational presentations.
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
LOCAL LEADERS
Mayor Shane Taylor
Mayor Taylor was elected as mayor in 2024 and will finish his term in 2028.
"My mom grew up in Oakland, and my grandmother's family moved here in the 1930s," Taylor said.
When asked of his fondest memory while in Oakland, he said it was "seeing their excitement when I brought them to the lot I purchased to build my first house in 1998."
Seat 1 Kris Keller
Keller was appointed as commissioner in January 2025.
"Serving on the commission isn’t just a title — it’s a responsibility I take very seriously," Keller said. "I feel truly privileged to have a voice in shaping the direction of a town with such a rich past and a promising future. Contributing to decisions that impact our neighborhoods, preserve our heritage, and support a strong sense of community is both humbling and deeply meaningful to me."
Seat 2 Commissioner/
Vice Mayor Mike Satterfield
Satterfield was elected to the commission in 1998 and is a big part of Oakland's history.
"Here’s my definition of Oakland: family, friends and community," he said. "The most interesting thing in town today has to be the art and history center. There is always something different and relative there."
Seat 3 Commissioner Sal Ramos
Ramos was elected in 2015 as a town commissioner. To him, Oakland is his "final stop before heaven."
Ramos enjoys the balance between the quaint atmosphere and its proximity to urban centers.
Seat 4 Commissioner Joseph McMullen
McMullen has served the town in Seat 4 since 2006. He is a member of the Florida League of Cities Growth Management and Economic Develop Committee; a board member for the Tri-County League of Cities; and a board member of Matthew’s Hope. He is a member of the West Orange Chamber of Commerce.
Town Manager Elise Hui
Hui became Oakland's town manager in 2025, after serving as assistant town manager since 2023. One of Hui's most memorable experiences in town was her first interview for the administrative services director position seven years ago.
"When I left the room, I just knew: Oakland was where I was meant to be," she said. "There's something special about the people here."
NOTABLE NAMES
n S. Davis Starr was a widely known Orange County sheriff from 1948 to 1964, also serving as Oakland's marshal for some time. Today, Starr Street remembers him and his legacy.
n Joseph Petris, known as Uncle Joe, was one of Oakland's most popular citizens. He worked for the Plant System and Atlantic Coast Line Railroad as Oakland's station agent and served as mayor of Oakland from 1916-20 and later from 1926-28.
n W.S. “Bill” Arrington came to Oakland in 1940 to work at the fertilizer plant of South Lake Apopka Citrus Growers Association, later becoming general manager for it. He was a West Orange Memorial Hospital trustee, a member of the Winter Garden Rotary Club and a founding member of the West Orange Country Club. Today, Arrington Street stands as recognition for all he's done for the town of Oakland.
n Fred Lykes Cross served four terms on the Oakland Town Commission from 1957-65 and was a three-term mayor in the late 1960s. Cross Street is named after him.
n Helen “Dewey” Vick grew up in the oldest house in Oakland. Vick was the first female mayor in the town, dating back to 1941. Serving three terms, Vick left the office in 1946.
n William V. Nixon was elected Oakland’s first black town commissioner in 1971 after retiring from the public school system. After 18 years of service for the town, he was honored with his own day: William V. Nixon Day, in January of 1990.
n James Hardy Sadler is James Gamble Speer's grandson. Sadler is credited with planting the magnificent oaks that divide Oakland Avenue and ensuring the oak trees are being preserved. He became one of Oakland’s largest landowners and played a big role in opening the Bank of Oakland, which operated from 1911-1928.
DR. PHILLIPS From Dream to Legacy
The story of the Dr. Phillips area, known for its world-class dining, amazing golfing and desirable community, can’t be told without understanding the journey of its namesake, Dr. Philip Phillips.
After the Great Freeze of 1894-1895 destroyed the Tennessee native’s first investment into Florida’s citrus groves and sent him back home to practice medicine, he returned to the sunshine state with the intention of becoming a cattle baron. Over the next two decades, however, Phillips saw the tremendous opportunity in the area’s citrus production and acquired thousands of acres of citrus groves in Central Florida.
Spurning cattle for oranges, Phillips’ investment into citrus groves also led to the invention of flash pasteurization. This lengthened the shelf life of many products, including orange juice, and helped establish him as a seminal figure in Central Florida’s rich citrus history.
However, it was Phillips’ work as a philanthropist that made his family name be forever linked to the area. He 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.
Beyond his charitable works, Phillips dreamed of creating a community centered around his orange groves. So, he hired a planner who created a blueprint for the Dr. Phillips area. When he sold his citrus interest in 1954, he kept his undeveloped land in Southwest Orange County. Today, neighborhoods make up much of that land.
After his death in 1959, his son, Howard Phillips, carried out his father’s dream for an ideal residential community, developing an 18-squaremile master plan that 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. Today, the area has one of Central Florida’s most desired destinations to live, work and play.
WELCOME TO DR. PHILLIPS
The legacy of philanthropist Philip Phillips lives on across Central Florida, but nowhere more than the community named after him.
Situated between the scenic Butler Chain of Lakes and Orlando’s bustling tourism corridor, this community contains multitudes: long-standing residential communities, awesome public schools, a top-notch community park and even a newly recognized rural residential enclave. A brand-new ballfield complex and a long-standing Orange County Library branch round out an impressive list of public amenities in the area.
For an area famous for worldclass restaurants, it’s really the community that gives Dr. Phillips a true identity. These neighborhoods are tight-knit and are served by outstanding groups such as the YMCA, Dr. Phillips Charities, a terrific Rotary Club and a host of religious organizations committed to investing in the neighborhoods they serve.
Infrastructure improvements are always community-guided and are largely focused on strengthening roadway safety at key intersections. Thanks to its residents, Dr. Phillips remains an exceptional place to live, work and play!
— District 1 Orange County Commissioner Nicole Wilson
SIGNATURE EVENTS
Arnold Palmer Invitational. The PGA Tour’s only stop in Central Florida, the API is undoubtedly Dr. Phillips’ signature event. Played each March at Bay Hill Club and Lodge, this tournament brings worldwide attention to the Southwest Orange community, as well as a significant boost to the local economy.
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 famed Restaurant Row.
NOTABLE NAMES
n Wayne Brady: A graduate of Dr. Phillips High School, class of 1989, Brady is a television host, comedian, actor and singer. He is well known as a regular on the popular improvised comedy show, “Whose Line Is It Anyway?”
n Joey Fatone: A graduate of Dr. Phillips High, Class of 1995, Fatone is a singer, dancer, actor and TV host. He is best known as a member of NSYNC.
LOCAL LEADERS
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.
Dr. P. Phillips Foundation
Chairman Terry Prather
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. He also served on the board of trustees at Bethune-Cookman University from 2013-18 and was honored as “Father Of The Year” by the American Diabetes Association in 2016.
Scan the QR Code to book your new smile today!
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
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Date Night DR. PHILLIPS
Price Point: $300
Dr. Phillips is an amazing destination for just about any celebration. Its famed Restaurant Row and plenty of entertainment options nearby on International Drive make the area a great choice for that big night out.
Restaurant Row, aka Sand Lake Road, offers upscale and fine-dining options such as steakhouses and seafood restaurants that are sure to wow you. And if you want to try foods from around the world, there are plenty of options.
The dining scene is constantly expanding in the area, too, with newly added restaurants ready for you to try.
To start, we recommend going to The Whiskey, at 7563 W. Sand Lake Road, for award-winning burgers and live music. You can experience whiskeys of the world, with the location
offering more than 1,000 kinds of whiskey, rye and bourbon.
If you're new to The Whiskey, we recommend trying the taster offerings, which varies from $4 to $10. If you're not into whiskey, the menu also features a variety of cocktails.
For appetizers, we recommend trying the restaurant's famous Whiskey onion rings, followed by some delicious chips with bleu cheese sauce and marinated pork.
For an entrée, we recommend the
THE WHISKEY
n Whiskey Tasting, $63
n Motley Cue-Cumber, $9.75
n Wet Aged Burger, $23.50
n Whiskey Onion Rings, $8.50
n The Whiskey Cobb, $17.50
n Whiskey Chips, $14
NOLA'S ICE CREAM
n Ice Cream Flight, $14
MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS DATE NIGHT
n Tickets, $54 per person
Wet Aged Burger, which consists of the house patty wet aged in the Whiskey's Traverse City Barrel Proof Bourbon, red onion, arugula, tomato, muenster cheese and applewood smoked bacon. On the lighter side, we recommend the Whiskey Cobb salad, made with organic, antibiotic-free chicken breast.
No date would be complete without a little sweet. So after dinner, we recommend heading over to Dr. Phillips' local Nola's Ice Cream shop, 7988 Via Dellagio Way, Suite 100, for some delicious Vietnamese-inspired ice cream. This shop features some unique flavors such as Thai tea, taro, Vietnamese coffee, Brookie Monster and more. If you're not sure what to get, try the $14 mini flight, with six mini cones.
Of course, International Drive has a plethora of entertainment options. We recommend a Museum of Illusions date night package, which includes two museum tickets, as well as two drinks.
— LETICIA SILVA
GOTHA
Natural Wonder
Gotha is a small, charming rural settlement between Ocoee and Windermere with lots of history hidden within.
In 1879, German printer Henry Hempel from Gotha, Germany, decided to come to Central Florida to create a colony of his own.
After a few years of acquiring land, Hempel established Gotha in 1885. He built a few buildings to run the settlement: a post office, a school, a sawmill to generate lumber, a community hall and a general store.
Later, in 1902, Henry
NOTABLE NAMES
Nehrling, a renowned botanist, purchased land in Gotha. He introduced more than 300 unique plant species at the Palm Cottage Gardens, a tropical garden that featured his passion for horticulture.
Nehrling became best known for his hybrid palms, caladiums, amaryllis, magnolias and other plants. Nehrling’s work made Gotha a well-known destination for tourists, new Florida settlers and notable botanists, contributing to Gotha’s rich history.
Today, Gotha is well-connected by major roads and
highways, offering easy access to its surrounding cities and towns.
This rural settlement’s strategic location allows residents and visitors to easily explore the nearby areas, making it a convenient place to live and visit.
According to the 2023 census, Gotha has a population of 1,179 people, and it is known as one of the best places to live in Florida.
With historical landmarks and a beautiful scenery full of nature, Gotha is a must-visit place for anyone wanting some peace and calm.
n Henry A. Hempel was the German native who founded Gotha in 1885, naming it after his home country.
n Charles Kouene was a major player in the settling of Gotha. Due to his experience as a vice president at a school in Indianapolis, he served as a school superintendent in Gotha.
n Bob Ross, a Florida native, was a famous landscape artist, art instructor and television host known for his serene scenes and his “happy little trees." He now lies in rest in Gotha.
SIGNATURE EVENTS
Town of Gotha’s Rural 5K Run. This annual event is organized by Gotha Rural Settlement Association and is a run among the oaks. It is followed by a festival, with food, service providers, arts and crafts, and all types of farmers market vendors.
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. It honors Nehrling and the work he has provided to Gotha.
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; Xfinity (877) 3857839
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
Gotha contains everything I love about West Orange County — the nature, the history, the agriculture and the welcoming community. It has managed to maintain its historic rural character as Orange County has grown and evolved around it.
— District 1 Orange County Commissioner Nicole Wilson
MOVE IT MOVE IT!
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.
HEALTHY CAN BE DELICIOUS, TOO!
We have a plethora healthy options when eating out. Some of our favorites include Sizzlin' Greens (12639 W. Colonial Drive, Suite C, Winter Garden), Clean Eatz (9250 Miley Drive, Suite 150, Winter Garden) and Crisp and Green (16055 New Independence Parkway, Suite 130, Winter Garden).
HAVE A LITTLE FUN IN THE SUN
Whether you're looking to relax with friends, spend some one-onone time with your special someone or take the family out for a weekend excursion, here are a few options for some active, healthy fun in West Orange and Southwest Orange.
n Picnic at Newton Park: With perfect views of Lake Apopka, Newtown Park is a perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors. The park features a covered picnic pavilion, fishing pier and playground. This is a relaxing spot to visit during the day, filled with the calming sounds of nature.
n Farmers Markets: Winter Garden, Ocoee, Oakland, Dr. Phillips and Windermere all have farmers markets throughout the month.
n Frisbee Fun: Bill Frederick Park at Turkey Lake features a disc golf course.
n Ride in Style: Rent or take a bike, roller skates or scooters to enjoy the beautiful environment West Orange and Southwest Orange have to offer. With lots of history and nature around, you're sure to feel grounded and relaxed wherever you choose to go.
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
TIME TO GET GOING
Looking for something fun to do that will get your body moving? We've got the perfect list of local activities!
n Butler Chain of Lakes. If you're looking for water-based fun, the Butler Chain of Lakes is a collection of interconnected lakes that span across 4,720 acres.
n Healthy West Orange Wellness Park. This Ocoee park features a boardwalk, multipurpose path and, best of all, four covered wellness hubs equipped with outdoor exercise equipment.
n Oakland Nature Preserve. Take the trail walk or stroll on the Healthy West Orange Boardwalk to get beautiful views of Lake Apopka. This is Oakland's hidden gem full of nature and wildlife.
n Tucker Ranch and Nature Preserve. Tucked along the marshy shoreline of Johns Lake, this 200acre conservation park provides a true retreat to “Old Florida.”
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.
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
n West Orange Trail. This trail is a 22-mile paved multi-use trail that passes through Oakland, Ocoee, Apopka and Winter Garden. It's an amazing place to have picnics, bike or even see butterfly gardens while catching a glimpse of Lake Apopka.
n Lake Apopka Loop Trail. This trail isn't actually a loop, it is an arc-shaped trail that follows the north shore of Lake Apopka. It's a mix of paved and unpaved sections with not much shade, so make sure to wear sunscreen and take water.
n Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve. Hidden away off State Road 535 near Horizon West, this preserve features the Vera Carter Environmental Center, 3.6 miles of trails, a picnic area, a butterfly garden and a wheelchair-accessible sandbox.
QUALITY CARE CLOSE TO HOME
ADVENTHEALTH
WINTER GARDEN
2000 Fowler Grove Blvd., Winter Garden
PHONE: (407) 614-0500
DETAILS: This facility includes an 80-bed hospital and emergency department. Construction is underway on a $145 million expansion that will add three floors to the hospital's patient tower and 40 new progressive-care-unit beds, obstetrics and gynecology. It should be complete in 2026. Construction also is set to begin on the AdventHealth Cancer Institute at Winter Garden.
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 has 24 private patient rooms; respiratory therapy; diagnostic imaging, including CT scans, X-ray and ultrasound; and a full-service laboratory.
ADVENTHEALTH
ER AT PALM PARKWAY
7823 Palm Parkway Orlando
PHONE: (407) 550-0500
DETAILS: The AdventHealth Palm Parkway ER offers hospital-based emergency medical care in a freestanding facility.
HCA FLORIDA —
WEST ORANGE EMERGENCY
1320 Daniels Road, Winter Garden
PHONE: (407) 518-4107
DETAILS: HCA Florida is making a $16 million investment in Winter Garden with its 13th free-standing emergency room across the greater Orlando metro area. The 11,570-square-foot freestanding emergency room will feature 11 rooms, one of which is a designated cardiopulmonary resuscitation and trauma room. There also will be diagnostic imaging, a CT scanner, ultrasound and X-ray capabilities as well as comprehensive laboratory services. West Orange Emergency is expected to open in August or September 2025. Construction began in September 2024.
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 November 2024, Philip Koovakada was named the new president of Dr. P. Phillips Hospital. The hospital has the Orlando Health's Hospital Care at Home program, which is the first program in the nation to receive the Silver Beacon Award for Excellence from the American Association for Critical-Care Nurses.
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. In December 2024, the hospital launched a new limb preservation program. Through the program, a multidisciplinary team will provide care to patients at risk for limb loss to prevent a life-changing emergency. Health Central also will be opening an infusion center to infuse blood into patients from throughout Central Florida. In November 2024, Maggie Bonko was named the new president of Health Central.
ORLANDO HEALTH — HORIZON WEST HOSPITAL
17000 Porter Road, Winter Garden
PHONE: (407) 407-0000
DETAILS: Horizon West Hospital opened in January 2021. The six-story, 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 2024, the hospital, which now is under the leadership of President Joe Khayat, relaunched its cardiac catheterization program. The hospital is a LeapFrog A-rated facility.
2025-26 season 2025-26 season anniversary anniversary
la BOHÈME [ 波希米亞生涯 ] opera on the mainstage
October 3 & 5, 2025
ALL is CALM opera in the trenches
December 12-14, 2025
the MOZART DINNER
January 31, 2026
SILENT NIGHT opera on the mainstage
February 6 & 8, 2026
the SECRET RIVER opera on site
March 6 & 7, 2026
the MERRY WIDOW opera on the mainstage
April 24 & 26, 2026
a DECADE of DIVAS opera in concert
May 16, 2026
10 to attend
1
WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE AND MUSIC FESTIVAL
Downtown Winter Garden
DETAILS: This annual event, which takes place in February, is a music lover’s dream come true. The event features 11 hours of live music of many genres across multiple stages throughout downtown Winter Garden.
2
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, live music, food, and more. Presented annually by Horizon West Happenings.
3
ARNOLD PALMER INVITATIONAL
9000 Bay Hill Blvd, Orlando
DETAILS: Since 1979, the Arnold Palmer Invitational has been a proving ground for the PGA Tour's biggest names — and a can’t-miss event for golf’s biggest fans. In addition to all the action on the course, the tournament features a variety of events that serve as fundraisers for local organizations.
4BEST FEST — THE TASTE OF WEST ORANGE
Bill Breeze Park, 125 N. Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee
DETAILS: The West Orange Chamber of Commerce hosts this annual taste fest. Sample food offerings from local restaurants, bars, caterers and breweries.
5
EVENING AT THE POPS
Newton Park, 31 Garden Ave., Winter Garden
DETAILS: Evening at the Pops is the Rotary Club of Winter Garden's annual fundraising concert. Each year, attendees enjoy a concert at Newton Park on the shores of Lake Apopka.
6
SPRING 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.
7WOODLAND MEMORIAL PARK AND FUNERAL HOME'S MEMORIAL DAY SERVICE
400 Woodlawn Cemetery Road, Gotha
DETAILS: For more than seven decades, Woodlawn Memorial Park and Funeral Home has honored our fallen heroes at its annual Memorial Day Service. This event features moving speeches, a 21-gun salute, helicopter flyover and patriotic music.
8
OCOEE MUSIC FESTIVAL
Bill Breeze Park, 125 N. Lakeshore Drive, Ocoee
DETAILS: The Ocoee Music Festival is dedicated to celebrating Ocoee’s small-town traditions with music, community, small businesses and fun. The weekend-long event features national acts in a variety of genres, food, vendors, kids activities and more.
9WINDERMERE RUN AMONG THE LAKES
Downtown Windermere
DETAILS: Runners flock to this annual event to enjoy Windermere's signature dirt roads and priceless views of the Butler Chain of Lakes.
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 old-fashioned parade with floats, music, candy and, of course, Santa's arrival.
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 Dr., 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
LAKE BUENA VISTA
Rotary Club of Lake Buena Vista
P.O. Box 22033,Lake Buena Vista
EMAIL: info@rotarylbv.org
WEBSITE: rotarylbv.org
SIGNATURE EVENT: Rotary Club of Lake Buena Vista Foundation Charity Golf Challenge
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
WINDERMERE
Windermere Garden Club P.O. Box 502, Windermere PHONE: (407) 876-1127
WEBSITE: windermeregardenclub.org
Rotary Club of Pet Rescues Orlando
WEBSITE: facebook.com/ PetRescueRotary
Rotary Club of Windermere 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: Evening at the Pops, Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament
West Orange Junior Service League
P.O. Box 770267, Winter Garden
WEBSITE: wojsl.com
SIGNATURE EVENTS: Run for the Roses, Pumpkin Patch Dash 5K, 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
WEST ORANGE’S WINNING WAYS
From high-level high school athletics to its golfing landscape, West Orange is perfect for any sports fan.
Regardless of whether it is the area’s championship-winning high school teams and athletes, the variety of youth sports leagues and programs, the thriving adult recreational sports scene, or the college and professional level sports played in the area, sports is a major part of the culture of West Orange and Southwest Orange.
At the youth level, parents can find a diverse array of athletic programs and leagues to sign for their kids. Sports programs such as Windermere Laker Aquatics, TNXL baseball academy, Little League baseball and softball, and GGS soccer club are just a few examples of the incredible youth athletics available in the area.
Another aspect of the area’s sports culture are the extremely competitive high school athletics programs. With seven public high schools and a variety of private schools, the area’s athletic programs have seen incredible success on their fields of play. Local teams have captured state, national and even world championships in recent years.
But when you talk about high school sports, especially in Florida, you must mention Friday Night Football. And in this area, high school football gets more than a
mention in the minds of residents. It completely captures the hearts of players, schools and fans when the fall comes around each year.
And the sports fun doesn’t stop after high school. West Orange and Southwest Orange are hubs for adult recreational sports, too. From a variety of organized team sports leagues, community-use athletic facilities or even the amazing West Orange Trail, the area is perfect for any athlete or former
athlete looking for a way to stay active.
And for fans of college and professional sports, the area hosts a variety of events. Top among them is the PGA Tour’s annual stop in Central Florida — the Arnold Palmer Invitational — every spring. And in the summer, the Winter Garden Squeeze bring together a collection of college baseball players for two months of Florida Collegiate Summer League baseball.
GOLF GUIDE
It’s impossible to talk about the sports culture in West Orange and Southwest Orange without mentioning the game most think about when the Sunshine State comes to mind: golf. As the former home of some of the game’s greats — such as Arnold Palmer and Tiger Woods — and a top destination for any tourist hoping to play 18 holes during a family vacation, golf is a big of a part of the area’s sports landscape. Because of the area’s passion for the game, it’s clear to see why there are so many excellent courses throughout the area. Here are five courses to consider from around different areas of West Orange and Southwest Orange.
1
ARNOLD PALMER’S
BAY HILL CLUB & LODGE
9000 Bay Hill Blvd., Orlando
The winter home of golf legend
Arnold Palmer and the site of the PGA Tour event named after him each spring, the Bay Hill Club & Lodge is a private club located in Dr. Phillips known for its championship golf course. As a member of the club or guest at the lodge, you can play the 18-hole course the pros play each year. You also can take advantage of the many amenities the resort has to offer, such as a nine-hole course, a salon, spa, fitness center, a café, lounge and six tennis courts, to name a few.
For more information, visit bayhill. com.
2
FOREST LAKE GOLF CLUB
10521 Clarcona Ocoee Road, Ocoee
Encompassing 229 acres of Florida’s Central Ridge Region, this publicly owned, privately operated golf course not only provides golfers with a variety of scenic holes, but also, because it’s one of the few golf venues in Florida without homes associated with the course, it boasts an unspoiled atmosphere full of pristine natural ponds and a variety of trees and plants. Thanks to its accessibility from almost anywhere in Central Florida and rates as low as $30, Forest Lake is one of the best daily-fee courses the area has to offer.
For more information, visit forestlakegolf.com.
3
ORANGE COUNTY NATIONAL GOLF CENTER & LODGE
16301 Phil Ritson Way, Winter Garden
With two 18-hole courses, a ninehole course, and the largest driving range and practice facility in the entire country, Orange County National is a golf lover’s dream stop. The center was the host for LIV Golf Tour’s Orlando stop in 2023. It is one of the top-rated public courses in the area, and it is conveniently located right in the heart of Horizon West off State Road 429.
For more information, visit ocngolf.com.
4
STONEYBROOK WEST GOLF CLUB
15501 Towne Commons Blvd., Winter Garden
After a five-year hiatus, the Stoneybrook West Golf Club made its much-anticipated return under the leadership of Rocky Hodge. A local favorite, this 18-hole public course is a picturesque blend of the natural landscapes in West Orange, including dramatic rolling fairways touched by water on 14 of its holes. This not only makes for a great view but also a phenomenal round of golf. Located near the border of Windermere and Winter Garden, this course is easily accessible via S.R. 429. Better yet, with rates as low as $35, it’s also affordable. For more information, visit stoneybrookwestgolfclub.com.
5
WEST ORANGE COUNTRY CLUB
3300 West Orange Country Club Drive, Winter Garden
Since 1967, the private West Orange Country Club has provided its members the comfortable feel of home in a club atmosphere. The 18-hole course, designed by Lloyd Clifton and opened in 1967, is available for play seven days a week. The challenging par-71 course is tree-lined with several small ponds and a creek that winds through the property. Rebuilt in 2006 with Tift dwarf grass, the greens are smooth and undulating enough to test the best players in the area.
For more information, visit woclub.com,
ROTARY CLUBS
A. Dr. Phillips
B. Horizon West
D. Windermere
E.
C. Lake Buena Vista
Winter Garden
F. Pet Rescues Orlando
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
ORANGE OBSERVER // 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
HEALTHY WEST ORANGE // 10000 W. Colonial Drive, Suite 281, Ocoee
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
SOUTHERN HILL FARMS // 16651 Schofield Road, Clermont
Find local news every Thursday in the Big Red Box!
Scan the code to find your closest location for the West Orange Times & Observer and Southwest Orange Observer.
Lake Butler
APOPKA
• Bargrove
• Bronson Peak
• Eden Crest
• Emerson Pointe
• Hilltop Reserve
• Ivy Trails
• Lakeshore Of Wekiva
• Lakeside
• Lester Ridge
• Oaks At Kelly Park
• Oakview
• Orchid Estates
• Parkview Of Wekiva Park
• Park View Preserve
• San Sebastian Reserve
• Stonewood Reserve
• Vistas At Waters Edge
• Braemar Fire Creek At Gotha
• Lake Olivia Reserve
• Tuscany Ridge
• Weatherstone
MOUNT DORA
• Estates At Lake Clarice
• Harbor Isle
• Havencrest
• Kensington Park
• Siena Gardens
• Windsor Hill Reserve
• Woods Of Windermere
• Worthington Park
WINTER GARDEN
• Avalon Reserve
• Oakland Park
• Oaks At Brandy Lake
• Orange Cove
• Overlook At Hamlin
• Oxford Chase
• Foothills Of Mount Dora
OAKLAND
• Briley Farm
• Grove At Oakland
• Oakland Hills
• Oakland Park
OCOEE
• Arden Park
• Wekiva Riverwalk
• Winding Meadows
• Hull Island At Oakland
• Clarcona Cove
• Clarcona Crossings
• Forest Lake Estates
• Inspiration
WINDERMERE
• Bellaria
• Belmere
• Camden Park
• Casa Del Lago
• Casabella
• Estancia At Windermere
• Gardens Of Isleworth
• Isleworth
• Keenes Pointe
• Lake Butler Sound
• Lake Down Reserve
• Palms At Windermere
• Sawyer Sound
• Ocoee Landings
• Wolf Lake Ranch
• Wolf Lake Run
GOTHA
• Bella Vita Estates
• Avalon Ridge
• Black Lake Preserve
• Bradford Creek
• Canopy Oaks
• Carriage Pointe Reserve
• Courtlea Oaks
• Cypress Reserve
• Enclave At Hamlin
• Garden West
• Hamilton Gardens
• Hamlin Reserve
• Hammock Pointe
• Heritage At Plant Street
• Park Ave Estates
• Highlands At Summerlake Grove
• Park Place
• Ravenna
• Reserve At Carriage Point
• Roper Reserve
• Sanctuary At Hamlin
• Sanctuary At Twin Waters
• Signature Lakes
• Staton Estates
• Summerlake
• The Cove At Hamlin
• Vineyards
• Waterside At Johns Lake
• West Lake Hancock Estates
• Westside Town Homes
• Reflections
• Spring Lake Reserve
ORLANDO
• Clarcona Estates
• Summerport
• Waterstone
• Watercrest At Windermere
• Windermere Isle
• Windermere Ridge
• Independence
• Johns Lake Point
• Matthews Grove
• Newbury Park
• Winter Grove
• Winter Oaks
• Oakland Hills
Giau Tran, DMD
Andre Baptiste, DDS Alyssa Pinnock, DDS
High-quality, full-time programs for preschool, kindergarten and elementary*
Professionally-trained teachers who are passionate about children’s education
Learning environment designed to enhance children’s education experience
Safe outdoor areas for active learning and play
Heart for Giving
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; finds safe families for children; and provides assistance to victims of trafficking.
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.
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 that help veterans working through post-traumatic stress.
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.
CENTRAL FLORIDA DIAPER BANK
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.
FRENCH FAMILY FOUNDATION
3554 W Orange Country Club Drive, Winter Garden
Email: Hello@FrenchFamilyFoundation.com
Website: frenchfamilyfoundation.com
Mission: The French Family Foundation Inc. exists to provide support and assistance to people with disabilities, their families and those seeking adoption of children with disabilities.
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.
THE GIFT OF SWIMMING
Southwest Aquatics, 205 Windermere Road, Winter Garden
Phone: (407) 905-2815
Website: giftofswimming.org
Mission: Provide access to drowning-prevention 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 families battling cancer.
LEGACY EVENTS FOR EDUCATION
Email: info@legacyeventsfored.org
Website: legacyeventsfored.org
Mission: Inspire students to leave their legacy in 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.
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.
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.
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.
WEST ORANGE DREAM CENTER
1136 E. Plant St., Winter Garden
Phone: (407) 258-3107
Website: wodreamcenter.com
Mission: 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: wpdfoundation.com
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 and its employees and families.
WINDERMERE WINE & DINE
Email: windermerewineanddine@gmail.com
Website: windermerewineanddine.com
Mission: All proceeds benefit various charitable organizations and the town of Windermere.
WINTER GARDEN ART ASSOCIATION
127 S. Boyd St., Winter Garden
Phone: (407) 347-7996
Website: wgart.org
Mission: Encourage creativity, promote community involvement, and advance the appreciation and availability of the arts.
WINTER GARDEN HERITAGE FOUNDATION
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.
YMCA OF CENTRAL FLORIDA
Roper, 100 Windermere Road, Winter Garden; Dr. P Phillips, 7000 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Orlando Phone: (407) 656-8816
Website: ymcacf.org
Mission: Improve lives of all in Central Florida by connecting individuals, families and communities with opportunities based on Christian values.
Help Us, Help Them, Help Themselves
Most homeless individuals are not panhandlers, addicts or persons with criminal histories. Many faced trauma contributing to their situation (loss of a child or spouse, foster care upbringing, childhood abuse, career loss due to injury, downsizing, etc.)
The fastest-growing homeless groups are seniors with inadequate or no pensions. Followed by those with disabilities outliving their caregivers, and young families who fail housing qualifications. In Central Florida, a one-bedroom apartment costs $2000/ month. Many require triple that income as proof - meaning an annual income of $72,000!
You can help by attending Matthew’s Hope fundraising events or donate today!
611 Business Park Blvd. #101 Winter Garden, FL 34787
407-905-9500 | info@matthewshopeministries.org
Monday-Friday 10:00AM - 4:00PM
SIGHTS TO SEE
n The Great Outdoors. Smyrna Dunes Park. This 184acre inlet park sits along the southern shoreline of Ponce de Leon Inlet. It boasts more than 2 miles of elevated, accessible boardwalk. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Indian River and Ponce de Leon Inlet. The park also features a 300-foot accessible fishing pier and dog-friendly swimming beach areas located along the park river shore.
n A Bit of History. For history buffs, the New Smyrna History Museum is a perfect stop on a day trip to the city. The museum celebrates the unique history of one of Florida's oldest and most charming cities. And with adult tickets at $8, young adults (11-17) at $5 and children 10 and younger free, this is a wallet-friendly way to spend an afternoon.
n And a Bit More History. Technically located in Ponce Inlet, the Ponce Lighthouse and Museum is a must-see attraction in the area. The Inlet Light Station is home to Florida’s tallest lighthouse and one of the largest and best-preserved light stations in the country.
n Market Fresh. The New Smyrna Beach Farmers Market has been a part of the city's fabric since 1991. Enjoy perusing a variety of booths featuring farm-fresh food and creations by skilled artisans.
EVENTS
n New Smyrna Beach Food Festival. Held in April, this weekend features wine tastings and multi-course dinners. Staged at the Brannon Center, the festival culminates in a popular champagne brunch.
n IMAGES: A Festival of the Arts. Held annually in late January each year, this festival features artwork in every media imaginable.
DAY TRIP
NEW SMYRNA BEACH
LOCAL FLAVOR
n Chases on the Beach, 3401 S. Atlantic Ave., New Smyrna Beach. Situated right on the shore, Chases on the Beach is the perfect spot to soak up some stunning ocean views while enjoying fresh seafood and tropical cocktails. Its menu is chock full of casual classics, including an impressive selection of appetizers, handheld sandwiches and a variety of seafood entrées. Chases also features live music on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
n Wake Up Cafe, 749 E. Third Ave.; 306 N. Causeway, New Smyrna Beach. With two locations open from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily, Wake Up Cafe is the perfect place to start your day. This restaurant not only offers breakfast classics such as pancakes and waffles, but its menu also features some authentic Argentinian and Spanish options such as empanadas, Tortilla Española (Spanish potato omelet) and Lomito a Caballo (fried potatoes topped with eggs, with an Argentine lomito — beef tenderloin steak).
n Shebeen Suspiciously Sweet, 105 Canal St., New Smyrna Beach. With a full coffee bar, gourmet chocolates, ice creams and desserts, this is the perfect spot for a vacation treat.
Llocated less than a 90-minute drive away, New Smyrna Beach is one of the most popular beach destinations for locals living in West Orange and Southwest Orange. Yes, New Smyrna Beach offers all the sandy shores and crashing waves you could ever want, but it's the area's history that makes it truly special.
Before Spanish explorers led by Juan Ponce de León stepped onto the shores in 1513, the area now known as New Smyrna Beach was home to the Timucua Indians. Today, their connection to the land is preserved at Turtle Mound, a prehistoric archaeological site.
Dr. Andrew Turnbull and about 1,400 settlers from throughout Europe established the New Smyrna colony in 1768. It was named in honor of Turnbull’s wife, Gracia Maria Rubini, who was a native of the Ottoman city of Smyrna.
Today, New Smyrna Beach offers families a plethora of recreational opportunities. The area features a variety of campgrounds, including Sugar Mill Ruins Travel Park, Rose Bay Resort Campground and the Nova Family Campground. Golfers can enjoy tee times at Hidden Lakes Golf Club, Cypress Head Golf Club, The Club at Venetian Bay and The Preserve at Turnbull Bay. And, of course, the area also comes with all the beach and oceanside fun you could imagine. From wildlife excursions and surfing lessons to kayak adventures and two downtown districts, it's the perfect place for a weekend trip for the whole family.
— MICHAEL ENG
SIGHTS TO SEE
n St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum. Can you conquer the 219 steps into history to reach new heights at the top of the historic lighthouse? Learn what it was like to be a lighthouse keeper of the past and how the museum does it today. The museum also hosts ghost tours, a sunset moonrise option and lens room tours.
n Old Town Trolley Tours. Take in all the sights and sounds St. Augustine has to offer during a calm, narrated trolley tour with 22 stops throughout the historic district. A ticket comes with free admission to the St. Augustine History Museum as well as a free beach shuttle to Alligator Farm and the beach.
n St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park. From alligator feedings to interactive experiences and zip lining over the zoo, there's plenty to do and see. The park features exhibits on albino alligators, birds of Africa, exotic birds and mammals, Florida native reptiles, fossil discoveries, lemurs of Madagascar, and more.
EVENTS
n St. Augustine Film Festival. Held in January, the St. Augustine Film Festival gives people an opportunity to discover foreign and independent films as well as meet and greet with directors and actors at gala parties as the Old City services as a beautiful backdrop.
n Taste of St. Augustine. A St. Augustine favorite, the Taste of St. Augustine Food Festival features samples from more than 25 local restaurants. Enjoy local specialties to home-cooked eats.
n Night Market at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. Held on the fourth Tuesday of every month, people can enjoy an arts and crafts show featuring handcrafted art and goods from more than 70 artists.
DAY TRIP
ST. AUGUSTINE
LOCAL FLAVOR
n Beachside Diner, 451 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine. Enjoy Southern-style hospitality at a retro-inspired diner with a beachside twist. Breakfast is served all day at this neighborhood institution. Homemade southern comfort is served on a plate with the diner's golden, butter-brushed biscuits and slow-simmered grits with rich, homemade sausage gravy. Besides breakfast, there are lunch classics including cheeseburgers, club sandwiches, blackened mahi tacos and more.
n Beachcomber, 2 A St., St. Augustine Beach. Beachcomber is steps away from St. Augustine Beach, with a bar and limited indoor seating as well as covered outdoor seating. Beachcomber has been serving St. Augustine Beach guests since it opened as a wooden shack in the 1940s. The restaurant serves fresh seafood, sandwiches, daily specials and a beer list highlighted by local brews.
n Sunset Grille, 421 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine. This former old Phillip's 66 gas station turned beachside restaurant has earned multiple awards for its food against a Key-West style atmosphere. Sunset Grille is known for its award-winning chowders, as well as meals from the land and sea.
As the soft roar of the waves from the Atlantic Ocean hit St. Augustine Beach and the sun rises, a peaceful quiet takes over.
Within hours, the beach is filled with people soaking up the sun, splashing in the water and making memories.
But they might not know the history of the City of St. Augustine Beach.
The city — with a land area of 2.5 square miles — was incorporated in 1959, but it is intertwined with the rich history of St. Augustine, which was founded in 1565.
The beach's location on Anastasia Island makes it a part of the territory the Spanish claimed upon their arrival in 1513.
St. Augustine is considered the oldest continually inhabited European settlement in the United States. The Spanish established St. Augustine 42 years before the English colonized Jamestown and 55 years before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock. St. Augustine was meant to serve two purposes: as a military outpost for the defense of Florida and a base for Catholic missionary settlements throughout the southeastern part of North America. With its extensive history comes landmarks, museums and more to memorialize moments in time and places of historical significance.
— LIZ RAMOS
SIGHTS TO SEE
n Arts and Culture. The Ringling was established in 1927 and is the official art museum of the state of Florida. It features myriad art pieces and new exhibitions, varying from contemporary to ancient art. The Ringling Estate in which it is located also includes a Circus Museum, the 1920s mansion Ca’ d’Zan, the beautiful Bayfront Gardens and the Historic Asolo Theatre. With so much to do and so much history to learn, it’s a must-visit when visiting Sarasota.
n Shop Till You Drop. St. Armands Circle: Known as the “jewel of Sarasota,” St. Armands Circle has all the shops you can think of in one place. With more than 100 stores to explore, tropical gardens and restaurants all around, it makes for a perfect day. It is unique in its concept, history and layout.
n Beachy Keen: Ranked the No. 1 beach in the United States and No. 4 in the world, Siesta Key Beach is sure to awe you with its beauty. With 99% quartz-sand and light blue waters, it makes for a unique experience and a sunny adventure. Nearby Lido Beach is a beautiful whitesand, blue-water beach off the coast of Sarasota. There is a park located on the north side of South Lido Beach that offers a nature trail, picnic facilities, canoe and kayak trails, a fishing pier, and more.
EVENTS
n Siesta Key Crystal Classic. This four-day sand-sculpting festival on Siesta Beach is held annually in November. Come watch as 24 talented sand sculptors create amazing pieces right before your eyes. The festival also includes more than 70 vendors and live music.
n Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Sarasota's premier performing arts venue features a variety of concerts, performances and shows throughout the season.
DAY TRIP
SARASOTA/SIESTA KEY
LOCAL FLAVOR
n C’est La Vie, 1553 Main St., Sarasota. C'est La View is a can't-miss stop in Sarasota. The award-winning French bakery and café features an extensive menu of authentic pastries, and you'll have a hard time deciding which one to try first. In addition, its breakfast and lunch options include omelettes, crêpes, baguette sandwiches and more.
n Boca, 19 S. Lemon Ave., Sarasota. Boca is an upscale restaurant that provides a cozy and friendly environment. Located on Lemon Avenue in Downtown Sarasota, Boca features sidewalk tables and a central bar, making it a perfect place to enjoy a night on the town. Boca features menus for brunch, lunch and dinner, as well as an extensive list of crafted cocktails.
n The Cottage, 153 Avenida Messina, Siesta Key. The Cottage, located in the heart of Siesta Key Village, offers an eclectic seafood dining experience with American and Japanese influences. Dishes vary from $18 to $45 per dish, so there’s something for everyone — even on a budget. Plus, enjoy a little "Old Florida Charm" by dining on one of its two outdoor patios.
First known as Sarasota Key, homesteaders began settling on the land in the 1880s. Few remained though, except for Capt. Louis Roberts and his wife, Ocean Hansen Roberts, for whom Ocean Boulevard, Roberts Road and Hansen Bayou are named.
In 1906, Louis Roberts enlarged his house, which became known as the Roberts Hotel. In 1907, he, along with Harry Higel and E.M. Arbogast, formed the Siesta Lang Company.
Arbogast began construction on the Bay Island Hotel on the north shore of the Key in late 1910 while Higel's dredge was digging the canals, filling low land and excavating shell deposits that could be used to surface roads as they were built.
As mayor of Sarasota in 1916, Higel supported a bond issue that was passed and resulted in the building of the first Siesta Key Bridge in 1917. The county built the bridge on Stickney Point Road by 1926. By 1946, government maps labeled the area Sarasota Key, but the county called it Siesta Key.
Siesta Key since has consistently been ranked among the best beaches in the world and has been named the top beach in the U.S. by numerous sources.
— LIZ RAMOS
Build
Reserve your table today at: westorangehabitat.org/rock-the-house
Habitat ReStore: Donate, Shop, Volunteer
Schedule a team build of ReStore volunteer day Your donation means every dollar builds homes.
Rock The House & Women Build
Raise funds by attending these fun events!
Join A Committee
Participate in one of our vital committees You help give families the opportunity for homeownership.
Get Started With Habitat Homeownership
Learn more at westorange habitat.org/home-ownership
BACK TO SCHOOL
EARLY EDUCATION
West Orange and Southwest
Orange is full of families, and the number increases daily as people continue to move to the 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.
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
Enlighten Montessori 8343 Tansy Drive, Orlando (407) 988-7092 enlightenmontessori.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
The Learning Experience O-Town West 7530 Redmond Drive, Orlando (407) 778-1380 thelearningexperience.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
The Learning Experience — Windermere 6290 Lake Smith Circle, Windermere (407) 614-0338 thelearningexperience.com
Primrose School of Horizon West 8680 Old Seidel Road, Winter Garden (407) 553-3777 primroseschools.com
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
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 (Family Church) 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
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
Church at the Cross Preschool 700 Good Homes Road, Orlando (407) 293-4571 catcorlando.com
Gifted Minds
Early Learning Center 101 S. Clarke Road, Ocoee, (407) 440-3192 giftedmindselc.com
Glad Tidings Preschool & Academy — Central Campus 2009 Fullers Cross Road, Ocoee (407) 656-4140 gladtidingsacademy.com
Good Homes
Preschool of Orlando 1501 E. Silver Star Road and 8959 W. Colonial Drive, Ocoee (407) 299-4818 facebook.com/ goodhomespreschool
La Petite Academy of Ocoee 11002 Winshire Blvd., Ocoee (877) 271-6466 lapetite.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
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
Victory Christian Academy 1601 A D Mims Road, Ocoee (407) 656-1295 vbcocoee.com/the-academy
West Orlando Baptist Church Child Discovery Center 1006 E. Crown Point Road, Ocoee (407) 905-9508 westorlandobaptistchurch.com
WINDERMERE/GOTHA Montessori Kids Academy of Windermere 1707 Maguire Road, Windermere (407) 217-5566 montessoriofwindermere.com
My Kids Academy 113 Roberson Road, Windermere (407) 217-5958 mykidsacademy.com
Premier Academy 9380 Gotha Road, Windermere (407) 290-3277 premieracademyschools.com
Windermere Preschool (Family Church)
300 Main St., Windermere (407) 876-2874 preschoolwindermere.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
Cranium Academy of Winter Garden
4068 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Winter Garden (407) 294-6950 craniumacademy.com/ our-locations/wintergarden-windermere-area
Discover Preschool
855 E. Plant St., Ste. 500, W.G. (407) 337-5772 thediscoverpreschool.com
Natural Diamonds & Lab Created Large Selection
Beautiful Selections of “Fine Jewelry” Vintage & Estate Pieces · All repairs Done on SITE Custom Jewelry & Design · Lafonn Jewelry · Watch Repair & Batteries
Tuesday - Friday 9:30am - 5:30pm Saturdays - 9:30am - 3:30pm Closed on Sundays & Mondays
The Bloom and Grow Garden Society has been a force for nature in the Winter Garden and West Orange County area since the club’s inception in 1997.
We strive to stimulate a knowledge and love of gardening through promotion and sponsorship of community projects and the protection and sustainability of native habitat.
We contribute to our community financially through grants to local organizations and scholarships for college and high school students studying horticulture and environmental sciences.
This year, working throughout our community, we have: Held pollinator plant sales to encourage pollinator habitats.
Planted Pink Trumpet Trees at Habitat for Humanity homes.
Planted pollinator gardens on the West Orange Trail, Magnolia Park, Tibet-Butler Preserve and Edgewood Children’s Ranch.
Started the 100 Trees for 100 Years project to plant Southern Live Oaks in the Winter Garden area.
Celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Path of Life Serenity Garden.
Planted trees and gardens at local hospitals and care facilities.
Our Spring Fever in the Garden festival has been a staple in the Central Florida area for the past 23 years. Located in downtown Winter Garden, we celebrate spring with plant vendors, entertainment, a chalk art contest, kid’s activities and an Ask the Expert booth.
The Bloom and Grow Garden Society, 185 members strong, looks forward to many years of public service to our community with innovative projects and initiatives to help the environment and enhance the quality of life in our community.
Bloom & Grow Garden Society | www.bloomandgrow.club
Sponsorship opportunities for club projects and Spring Fever in the Garden are available on the Spring Fever website.
EARLY EDUCATION
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
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
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
Young Innovators Academy 1297 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Winter Garden (407) 904-0746 younginnovatorsacademy.
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
Angie Gallo was elected in 2018 as School Board member for District 1 and currently is president-elect for the Florida School Boards Association. 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. She is 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.
DISTRICT 3
ALICIA FARRANT
DISTRICT 4
ANNE DOUGLAS
Anne Douglas was elected to the School Board in November 2024. She started her career with humble beginnings as a maid. She transitioned to become a public-school teacher in 1999 and specialized in elementary education. She holds a master’s degree in education from Nova Southeastern University and has served for 25 years as an educator at OCPS, predominantly in Title I schools. Additionally, Douglas served as an adjunct professor at Valencia College for four years.
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 her students. This serves as a testimony of her ability and her commitment as a champion for education.
Alicia Farrant was elected in 2022. She has grown up in a life of public service and helping those in need. At 13, she moved to Guatemala with her family to engage in fulltime charity work. After high school, she went into the medical field and worked 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 6
STEPHANIE VANOS
Stephanie Vanos was elected to the School Board in 2024. She is a mom to three girls in Orange County Public Schools and graduated magna cum laude from Northwestern University. She later earned her law degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Vanos is a member of the Education Committee of the League of Women Voters Orange County and served as its co-chair for two years. In 2021, she joined a statewide public education caucus and became the vice president.
DISTRICT 7
MELISSA BYRD
Melissa Byrd was elected to the 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: 10:30
a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7 for VPK, kindergarten and separate ASD classrooms; 1 to 2:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7, for first through fifth grade. ENROLLMENT: 800
FUN FACT: Atwater Bay will be adding Spanish instruction for the 2025-26 school year.
BAY LAKE
12005 Silverlake Park Drive, Windermere
PHONE: (407) 217-7960
WEBSITE: baylakees.ocps.net
PRINCIPAL: Cristina Mrozek
MASCOT: Lions
MEET THE TEACHER: 3:30 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7
ENROLLMENT: 667
FUN FACT: Bay Lake is an ‘A’ school and has been since it opened in 2016.
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. 7. Kindergarten, second and fourth grades, 8:30 to 10 a.m.; First, third and fifth grades, 10:15 to 11:45 a.m.
ENROLLMENT: 770
FUN FACT: Bay Meadows serves the Dr. Phillips community and students enrolled through School Choice through the magnet application process as a STEAM Career Academy. It is excited to be “Celebrating 35 years of Koala-ty Success” as an “A”-rated school by the Florida Department of Education.
CASTLEVIEW
9131 Taborfield Ave., Orlando
PHONE: (407) 612-4205
WEBSITE: castleviewes.ocps.net
PRINCIPAL:
Jonathan Rasmussen
MASCOT: Dragons
MEET THE TEACHER: Last names A-M, 3 to 4:30 p.m.; last names N-Z, 4:30 to 6 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 7
ENROLLMENT: 650
FUN FACT: Castleview has a four houses and one kingdom.
CITRUS
87 N. Clarke Road, Ocoee
PHONE: (407) 445-5475
WEBSITE: citruses.ocps.net
PRINCIPAL: Mary Clark
MASCOT: Honeybees
MEET THE TEACHER: Thursday, Aug. 7. Third through fifth grades and ESE Separate Classes, 9 to 11 a.m.; kindergarten through second grade, noon to 2 p.m. Family meeting in the media center, 11:15 to 11:45 a.m.
ENROLLMENT: 509
FUN FACT: This year the theme is A+ is the Mission. Excellence is the Destination. This year, the school celebrates its 25th anniversary.
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: 1 to 3 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7
ENROLLMENT: 505
FUN FACT: Nearly all 505 students live within a 2-mile radius from the school.
DR. PHILLIPS
6909 Dr. Phillips Blvd., Orlando
PHONE: (407) 354-2600
WEBSITE: drphillipses.ocps.net
PRINCIPAL: Autherene Leighvard
MASCOT: Flying Eagles
MEET THE TEACHER: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7
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: Faythia Brown-Carpenter MASCOT: Eagles ENROLLMENT: 637
WILLIAM R. FRANGUS
380 Killington Way, Orlando PHONE: (407) 296-6469
WEBSITE: franguses.ocps.net
PRINCIPAL: Wendy Wolfe
MASCOT: Jazzy Cool Cat
MEET THE TEACHER: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7
ENROLLMENT: 439
FUN FACT: The school is named for a former school board member, Bill Frangus, who had a love for jazz music and the saxophone.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
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: 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 7
ENROLLMENT: 650
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. 7
ENROLLMENT: 900
FUN FACT: Independence is a patriotic school located within the Independence community. The school’s colors are red, white and blue.
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. 7. 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. 7. Pre-K morning, 8 a.m.; pre-K 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.
PALM LAKE
8000 Pin Oak Drive, Orlando
PHONE: (407) 354-2610
WEBSITE: palmlakees.ocps.net
PRINCIPAL: James Weis
MASCOT: Bobcats
MEET YOUR TEACHER: Thursday, Aug. 7
ENROLLMENT: 603
FUN FACT: Palm Lake teaches the whole child, inside and out, using traditional classrooms and outdoor 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
KINDERGARTEN
ORIENTATION: 10 a.m. to noon Tuesday, July 29. Parents must be present.
WILLIAM S. MAXEY
602 E. Story Road, Winter Garden
PHONE: (407) 877-5020
WEBSITE: maxeyes.ocps.net
PRINCIPAL: Dr. Sean S. Brown
MASCOT: Max the Wildcat
MEET THE TEACHER: 2 to 5 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7
ENROLLMENT: 595
FUN FACT: Maxey is a visual and performing arts magnet school.
OCOEE
400 S. Lakewood Ave., Ocoee
PHONE: (407) 877-5027
WEBSITE: ocoeees.ocps.net
PRINCIPAL: Kandace Goshe
MASCOT: Cardinals
MEET THE TEACHER: 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7
ENROLLMENT: 730
FUN FACT: Many of the families include grandparents and even great-grandparents who attended Ocoee Elementary. It is not uncommon for parents to recognize teachers from their own time as a student. Ocoee truly is a place where generations grow and learn together.
MEET THE TEACHER: Thursday, Aug. 7. Kindergarten through second grades, 9 to 10:30 a.m.; third through fifth grades, 10:30 a.m. to noon
ENROLLMENT: 850
FUN FACT: Panther Lake will be working toward being a green school and recognized for its sustainability efforts to conserve energy and water, reduce waste, improve health and well-being, and enhance the school grounds with gardens and outdoor learning areas.
Reinventing Women’s Care
We’re proud to offer all our OBGYN and aesthetic services for comprehensive women’s health under one roof in Winter Garden.
We will be with you through every stage of your pregnancy to provide personalized OBGYN service.
Facial Aesthetics
Wrinkle Relaxers, Derma Fillers, Chemical Peels, Sculptra, Kybella, Emface Facial Contouring, RF Microneedling & Exion Ultrasound Rejuvenation.
Body Aesthetics
Emsculpt NEO, Exion Ultrasound Rejuvenation & Scar Revision
Well-Woman Services
Our services include standard exams, though we also see patients for various other concerns. Cosmetic gynecological surgeries like labiaplasty, vaginoplasty.
Male Aesthetics
Aesthetic and Hormone Replacement Therapy
Katie Herrera Nurse Practitioner & Certified Nurse Midwife
Manny Herrera Board certified OBGYN physician and body scultping cosmetic gynecological surgeon
PRAIRIE LAKE
8723 Hackney Prairie Road, Orlando
PHONE: (407) 884-2220
WEBSITE: prairielakees.ocps.net
PRINCIPAL: Sean Downing
MASCOT: Panthers
MEET THE TEACHER: 3 to 5 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 7
ENROLLMENT: 851
FUN FACT: Earned an “A” grade for the first time since 2012.
SAND LAKE
8301 Buena Vista Woods Blvd., Orlando
PHONE: (407) 903-7400
WEBSITE: sandlakees.ocps.net
PRINCIPAL: Kathleen Phillips
MASCOT: Stingrays
MEET THE TEACHER: 3 to 5 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 7.
“O-FISH-ALLY A STINGRAY”: For incoming kindergartners and their families, 9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 3 (please arrive on time for an informational presentation).
ENROLLMENT: 740
FUN FACT: There is a large population of gopher tortoises that call Sand Lake home. There are many burrows, and they often are observed by students at recess.
SPRING LAKE
1105 Sarah Lee Lane, Ocoee
PHONE: (407) 578-2085
WEBSITE: springlakees.ocps.net
PRINCIPAL: Gina M. Warkentien
MASCOT: Blue Jays
MEET THE TEACHER: 3 to 5 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7
ENROLLMENT: 460
FUN FACT: Spring Lake Elementary was established in the fall of 1960 with a teaching principal and five teachers. It has grown significantly since then but still is considered a community school.
SUMMERLAKE
15450 Porter Road, Winter Garden
PHONE: (407) 554-1774
WEBSITE: summerlakees.ocps.net
PRINCIPAL: Delaine Bender
MASCOT: Gators
MEET THE TEACHER: Thursday, Aug. 7. Last names A-F, 9 to 10 a.m.; G-O, 10 to 11 a.m.; P-Z, 11 a.m. to noon
ENROLLMENT: 720
FUN FACT: This is the sixth year of excellence for Summerlake. 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: Adasha Elmore
MASCOT: Sunny the Eagle
MEET THE TEACHER: Thursday, Aug. 7. 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: The school 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: Dr. Stacey Price
MASCOT: Eagles
MEET THE TEACHER: Thursday, Aug. 7. Kindergarten through second grade, 3 to 4:30 p.m.; third through fifth grades, 4:30 to 6 p.m.
ENROLLMENT: 761
FUN FACT: Sunset Park’s house system promotes 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. 7. 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
FUN FACT: The school’s theme for the 2025-2026 school year is “Reaching New Heights, Together.”
TILDENVILLE
1221 Brick Road, Winter Garden
PHONE: (407) 877-5054
WEBSITE: tildenvillees.ocps.net
PRINCIPAL: Agathe Alvarez
MASCOT: Tigers
MEET THE TEACHER: Three sessions: 3 to 3:45 p.m., 4 to 4:45 p.m. or 5 to 5:45 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7
ENROLLMENT: 724
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: 3 to 5 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7
ENROLLMENT: 1,161
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: Dr. Vidal Reyes
MASCOT: Wildcats
MEET THE TEACHER: 2 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7
ENROLLMENT: 535
FUN FACT: A school tradition is to have the students create a tile wall display with all fifth-grade students on their last year. Every time the school has the high school seniors back, they go and it reminds them where they started.
WEST OAKS
905 Dorscher Road, Orlando
PHONE: (407) 532-3875
WEBSITE: westoakses.ocps.net
PRINCIPAL: Elaine Lundberg
MASCOT: Wildcats
MEET THE TEACHER: Thursday, Aug. 7
ENROLLMENT: 483
FUN FACT: Celebrating 21 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. 7
ENROLLMENT: 770
FUN FACT: Whispering Oak will be celebrating 20 years of success this year.
WINDERMERE
11125 Park Ave., Windermere
PHONE: (407) 876-7520
WEBSITE: windermerees.ocps.net
PRINCIPAL: Janet Bittick
MASCOT: Mustangs
MEET THE TEACHER: Kindergarten: 9 to 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 6. First through fifth grades: Thursday, Aug. 7. Last name A-L, 9 to 9:45 a.m.; M-Z, 10:30 to 11:15 a.m.
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
ENROLLMENT: 1,191
MIDDLE SCHOOLS BRIDGEWATER
5600 Tiny Road, Winter Garden
PHONE: (407) 905-3710
WEBSITE: bridgewaterms.ocps.net
PRINCIPAL: Amy Klaber
MASCOT: Bobcats
MEET THE TEACHER: 1 to 4
MIDDLE SCHOOLS
p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7
ENROLLMENT: 1,140
FUN FACT: Bridgewater opened in 2007 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: 864
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: Thursday, Aug. 7. Sixth grade, 9 a.m. to noon; seventh and eighth grades, noon to 2:30 p.m.
ENROLLMENT: 955
FUN FACT: The school's 2025 Gotha LibDub celebrates its 30th anniversary with music from the last 30 years.
HAMLIN
16025 Silver Grove Blvd., Winter Garden
PHONE: (407) 993-7420
WEBSITE: hamlinms.ocps.net
PRINCIPAL: Bridget Bresk
MASCOT: Coyotes
MEET THE TEACHER: 4 to 6
p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7
ENROLLMENT: 991
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: Andrew Agudo
MASCOT: Hornets
MEET THE TEACHER: Thursday, Aug. 7. Last names A-L, 10 a.m.; M-Z, 1:45 p.m.
ENROLLMENT: 1,298
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
LAKEVIEW
1200 W. Bay St., Winter Garden
PHONE: (407) 877-5010
WEBSITE: lakeviewms.ocps.net
PRINCIPAL: John D. Linehan
MASCOT: Lightning
ENROLLMENT: 798
FUN FACT: Lakeview is a magnet school for world languages featuring Spanish and French, and now also offers American Sign Language and Chinese. The school now also has a full agriculture program, including all levels of agriscience. It currently is undergoing a comprehensive rebuild of the campus and is excited for its upcoming 100th birthday in 2027.
OCOEE
300 S. Bluford Ave., Ocoee
PHONE: (407) 877-5035
WEBSITE: ocoeems.ocps.net
PRINCIPAL: Cheri Leavitt
MASCOT: Cardinals
MEET THE TEACHER: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 6
ENROLLMENT: 1,170
FUN FACT: Ocoee Middle has a quickly growing Ag Program with an active FFA chapter. The school have 18 hens and one rooster living in the Cluck Plaza, which was built as a local Eagle Scout Project. It also has two sheep and will be adding more animals during the 2025-26 school year.
MEET THE TEACHER: 4 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7
ENROLLMENT: 1,286
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
MEET THE TEACHER: 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7
ENROLLMENT: 1,092
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 MEET THE TEACHER: 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7
ENROLLMENT: 1,300
FUN FACT: This is Water Spring's third year on its own campus. The almost-5-yearold school operated for two years on the third floor of Horizon High. The school also tied as the No. 1 middle school in OCPS (based on assessment scores).
HIGH SCHOOLS
DR. PHILLIPS
6500 Turkey Lake Road, Orlando
PHONE: (407) 355-3200
WEBSITE: drphillipshs.ocps.net
PRINCIPAL: Jackie Ramsey
MASCOT: Panthers
NEW STUDENT
ORIENTATION/MEET THE
TEACHER: Two options: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7
ENROLLMENT: 2,981
FUN FACT: Dr. Phillips almost was not named as it is today because of 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 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
HAWK WALK: 8 to 11 a.m.
Thursday, Aug. 7
SENIOR SWOOP: 11 a.m. to noon Thursday, Aug. 7
ENROLLMENT: 2,965
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
MEET THE TEACHER: 4:30 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7
ENROLLMENT: 2,062
FUN FACT: LBV recently graduated the first four-year senior class in 2025. LBV is a Cambridge Showcase School, and this coming school year, it will open its first academy — Hospitality and Lodging Academy.
OLYMPIA
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. 7
ENROLLMENT: 2,480
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
4301 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando
PHONE: (407) 905-6400
WEBSITE: olympiahs.ocps.net
PRINCIPAL: Christy Gorberg
MASCOT: Titans
ENROLLMENT: 2,921
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
WEST ORANGE HIGH
1625 Beulah Road, Winter Garden
PHONE: (407) 905-2400
WEBSITE: westorangehs.ocps.net
PRINCIPAL: Matthew Turner
MASCOT: Warriors
ENROLLMENT: 2,750
FUN FACT: West Orange has a large number of parent volunteers who donate 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
CREATIVE AND INDIVIDUALIZED EDUCATION
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 — Trinidadian-American YouTuber, sWooZie
WINDERMERE HIGH
5523 Winter Garden-Vineland Road, Windermere
PHONE: (407) 347-0980
WEBSITE:
windermerehs.ocps.net
PRINCIPAL: Andrew Leftakis
MASCOT: Wolverines
ENROLLMENT: 3,220
FUN FACT: The campus features technology-integrated classrooms, a state-of-the art media center and a performing-arts suite.
Challenging, individualized curriculum that maximizes learning capabilities through critical thinking, creative problem-solving and hands-on education.
Fun, interactive learning environment with low student-toteacher ratios and modern classrooms.
Expansive indoor/outdoor play areas featuring a gym and playground equipment.
Nurturing educators certified in child development, with more than 50 years of combined education experience.
Outstanding range of subjects including languages, art, music, science, public speaking and character development.
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
2010 Ocoee Apopka Road, Ocoee
PHONE: (407) 905-2000
WEBSITE: orangetechcollege.net/campuses/ westside
SENIOR DIRECTOR: Scott Weidl
FUN FACT: OTC moved to its new campus in 2024.
AUGUST
n Friday, Aug. 1, to Friday, Aug. 8: Pre-planning
n Wednesday, Aug. 6: Professional development day
n Monday, Aug. 11: First day of school
SEPTEMBER
n Monday, Sept. 1: Labor Day (schools and district offices closed)
OCTOBER
n Friday, Oct. 10: End of first marking period n Monday, Oct. 13:
Teacher workday/student holiday n Tuesday, Oct. 14: Begin second marking period
NOVEMBER
n Monday through Friday, Nov. 24-28: Thanksgiving Break
DECEMBER
n Friday, Dec. 19:
End of second marking period n Dec. 22 to Jan. 2, 2026: Winter Break
BAD WEATHER MAKE-UP DATES
PRIORITY DATE CURRENT USE
1 Feb. 16, 2026 Presidents Day Holiday
2 April 24, 2026 Professional Day
3 Nov. 24 Thanksgiving Break
4 Nov. 25 Thanksgiving Break
JANUARY
n Monday, Jan. 5, 2026: Teacher workday/student holiday n Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026: Students return to school. Begin second semester/third marking period
n Monday, Jan. 19, 2026: Martin Luther King Jr. holiday (schools and district offices closed)
FEBRUARY
n Monday, Feb. 16, 2026: Presidents Day holiday (teacher non-work day; schools closed; district offices open)
MARCH
n Thursday, March 12, 2026: End of third marking period n Friday, March 13, 2026: Student holiday/teacher workday
n Monday, March 16, to Friday, March 20, 2026: Spring Break (schools closed; district offices open)
n Monday, March 23, 2026: Begin fourth marking period
APRIL
n Friday, April 24, 2026: Teacher professional day; student holiday; teacher non-work day
MAY
n Monday, May 25, 2026: Memorial Day holiday (schools and district offices closed)
n Wednesday, May 27, 2026: End of fourth marking period/last day of school for students
n Thursday, May 28, to Friday, May 29, 2026: Post-planning for teachers
Love Lifts Us
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
CENTRAL FLORIDA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
700 Good Homes Road, No. 6600, Orlando
PHONE: (407) 850-2322
WEBSITE: cfcaeagles.org
LEADERSHIP: Head of School Marc Stomprud; Upper School Principal Kristi Laviolette; Lower School Principal Stephanie Antoine MASCOT: Eagles
BACK-TO-SCHOOL BASH:
3-7
p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7
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 serves first through 12th grades. 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
MEET AND GREET: Wednesday, Aug. 6
FUN FACT: Brenda Crenshaw is the founder of The Crenshaw School. She developed innovative techniques and an out-of-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
ENROLLMENT: More than 1,500
MASCOT: Royals
MEET THE TEACHER: Friday, Aug. 8. 10 to 10:30 a.m. for new families; 10:30 a.m. to noon for returning families
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 Cam pus: (407) 204-9672
WEBSITE: foundationacademy.net
PRINCIPALS:
Upper School; Jackie Conover, Lower School, Plant Street Campus; Amanda Donaho, Lower School, Lakeside Campus
MASCOT: Lions
MEET THE TEACHER: Tuesday, Aug. 5 (Plant Street and Lakeside campuses); 2:30 p.m. (4 p.m. for returning families) Tues day, Aug. 5 (Tilden Campus)
FALL PREVIEW EVENT: Saturday, Sept. 27
ENROLLMENT: Street, 489; Lakeside, 134; Tilden, 835)
FUN FACT: Foundation leaders celebrated the opening of the school’s new cafeteria, worship center and 40,000-square-foot classroom building at its Tilden campus in 2024. The school also offers Foundation Academy Virtual Learning, a division that provides families with virtual options for students in grades six through 12.
In One Place In One Place
BOARD CERTIFIED PEDIATRIC DENTIST
TOOTH COLORED FILLINGS
PARENT ALWAYS WELCOME DURING TREATMENT
DR. LISSETTE BERNAL, DDS
NADIA RAMDIN,
ROBERTO GIL, DMD
Got your Card?
Orange County residents can check out books, movies, e-books, use databases and more with a library card.
Visit 15 locations throughout Orange County, including West Orange Branches:
•Southwest Branch
•Winter Garden Branch
•Windermere Branch
Can’t make it to a branch? Take advantage of our digital resources and free home delivery.
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
MONTVERDE ACADEMY
17235 Seventh St., Montverde
PHONE: (407) 469-2561
WEBSITE: montverde.org
HEADMASTER: Jon Hopman
MASCOT: Eagles
LOWER SCHOOL MEET AND GREET: Monday, Aug. 11
UPPER SCHOOL BACK-TOSCHOOL SOCIAL: 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 15
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
ENROLLMENT: 90
OPEN HOUSE: K4/5 through eighth grade: 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7
FUN FACT: Victory started in 1985 and celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. The school uses A Beka Book curriculum, which 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
ENROLLMENT: 1,600
MEET THE TEACHER: Lower School: New families, 9 a.m. (last names A-L) and 10:30 a.m. (last names M-Z) Monday, Aug. 11. Middle School: New families, 1:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 11; returning families, noon (sixth grade), 1 p.m. (seventh grade) and 2 p.m. (eighth grade) Tuesday, Aug. 12. High School: 1 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 12 (all families)
FUN FACT: As Windermere Prep kicks off its 25th anniversary celebration, the school has uncovered early sketches of its mascot, Butler.
WINTER GARDEN
CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
305 Beulah Road
PHONE: (407) 877-7735
WEBSITE: wgcacademy.org
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR: Pastor Melvin Adams
MASCOT: Panthers
FUN FACT: This is the school’s first year and will offer instruction to kindergarten through third-grade students.
CHARTER SCHOOLS
HOPE CHARTER/ LEGACY CHARTER HIGH
1550 E. Crown Point Road, Ocoee
PHONE: (407) 656-4673
WEBSITE: hopecharter.org
PRINCIPAL: Maurio Medley, Legacy
MASCOT: Eagles
MEET THE TEACHER: Seventh through 12th grades, 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7; kindergarten through sixth grades, 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8
ENROLLMENT: Legacy, 215; Hope, 417
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-6, Cathy Tobin; high school, Dr. John Pagnotti
MASCOT: Owls
ENROLLMENT: 1,100-plus
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
ENROLLMENT: 523
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 fourth grade, 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 6; fifth through eighth grades, 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7
ENROLLMENT: 1,289
FUN FACT: RCCP is a college and career readiness school.
2025-2026 Special Sections
FRIDAY NIGHT SIGHTS
PUBLISHES THURS., AUG.21
A guide to high school football and fanfare in West Orange and Southwest Orange.
Ad space available.
Call by Aug. 6 to reserve your space.
SEASON - FALL/WINTER
PUBLISHES THURS., SEPT.25
West Orange County’s comprehensive guide to all things music, dance, theater, arts and the social scene.
Ad space available. Call by Aug. 27 to reserve your space.
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
PUBLISHES THURS., NOV. 20
The Observer’s guide to local shopping and holiday events.
Ad space available. Call by Oct. 29 to reserve your space.
SEASON - SPRING
PUBLISHES THURS., FEB. 26
West Orange County’s comprehensive guide to all things music, dance, theater, arts and the social scene.
Ad space available. Call by Jan. 28, 2026, to reserve your space.
SUMMER FUN GUIDE
PUBLISHES THURS., MARCH 26
Your guide to summer camps in Central Florida.
Ad space available. Call by March 4, 2026, to reserve your space.
CLASS OF 2026 GRADUATION
PUBLISHES THURS., MAY 21
Congratulate the area’s public and private high school graduates.
Ad space available. Call by April 29, 2026, to reserve your space.
LOCAL MOTION
PUBLISHES THURS., JULY 30
Connecting residents to local businesses, community resources and more.
Ad space available.
Call by June 24, 2026, to reserve your space.
Students with special needs benefit from area's programs SPECIAL-NEEDS PROGRAMS
The West Orange and Southwest Orange areas offer several options for those seeking education for their loved ones with special needs.
Did you know Orange County Public Schools alone serves a total of 37,800 students in Exceptional Student Education, with 13,419 of those students identified as gifted?
Although ESE services are available at all public-school 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 thera-
py-driven 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 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.
Small class size and close faculty-student-parent relations are integral to the Crenshaw Education.
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.
BUILDING BLOCKS BEHAVIOR INTERVENTIONS
3200 S. Hiawassee Road, Suite 203, Orlando
PHONE: (407) 286-4031
WEBSITE: bbbinterventions.com
OWNER: Kali Heimbach
FUN FACT: Building Blocks offers direct 1:1 therapy for individuals with disabilities of all ages in a home, school or community setting.
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 therapy-driven environment.
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.
International Baccalaureate
Diploma & Certificate Program
High School Concentration
Program in STEM, Fine Arts, and Social Impact & Leadership
Collaborations with MIT, The Juilliard School, UNICEF & IMG Academy
Seven National Merit Qualifiers (Class of '24)
Top Honors at State for WPS
Thespian Troupe
60 Competitive Sports Teams
