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"Controversial Arrests, Tragic Accidents, and Inspiring Triumphs: The Latest Headlines in Winter Garden"

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"Controversial Arrests, Tragic Accidents, and Inspiring Triumphs: The Latest Headlines in Winter Garden"

"Controversial Arrests, Tragic Accidents, and Inspiring Triumphs: The Latest Headlines in Winter Garden"
Stay informed with the latest news in Winter Garden: Arrests made, FedEx truck crash, and a new Ms. Olympia title secured. Plus, exciting business developments and a glimpse into today's weather outlook! 🌳📰 #RootedinWinterGarden

Rooted in Winter Garden Team

Jan 26, 2026

January Edition

Greetings

Hey there, amazing readers! 👋

Happy January 26, 2025! We hope your day is going splendidly. Dive into this month's edition as we bring you exciting updates, and, of course, sprinkle some joy into your inbox! Don't forget to stay curious and inspired! ✨

In this edition of Rooted in Winter Garden:

The Local Lowdown

 

  • FedEx Truck Crashes and Catches Fire on Florida's Turnpike near Winter Garden, Causing Traffic Delays.
  • Dr. Natalia Coelho from Winter Garden Secures Second Ms. Olympia Title with Determination and Dedication.
  • Flash Flooding in Ocoee, Florida Leads to Road Closure on Crown Point Road

 

Get Out & Go!

 

  • Downtown Farmers Market – Health & Harvest Festival 
  • Live Music on the Plaza
  • Garden Theatre Performance 

 

Business Buzz

 

  • Winter Garden City Commission Approves Business Plan to Elevate Garden Theatre as Cultural Hub
  • Duke Energy Florida Introduces 'Go Green' Program in Winter Garden to Provide Customers with Renewable Energy Options

 

 

Stay connected for more updates this week — let’s work together to make it a great one for Winter Garden, Florida. 🌴

Trivia Question❓

What style of architecture is most common in Winter Garden’s historic homes?

Challenge: Can you identify three while walking downtown?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Discover local gems! This newsletter is sponsored by ZaarHub, your go-to online directory for finding the best local businesses in your community. Find everything from restaurants and shops to services and more. Visit ZaarHub today!

Monday Motivation

The Local Lowdown

Weekend Recap...

 Here's a quick and simple recap of the weekend: It unfolded with calm and ease, leaving us with moments of quiet reflection. 🕊️
A teacher at Water Spring Elementary in Florida was arrested for child abuse after allegedly grabbing a student's face and pushing them into a bookshelf.

The incident was reported by another employee at the school.

The teacher was charged with child abuse without great harm and was released on bail.

The school district has placed the teacher on administrative leave pending further investigation.

Read More...
An arrest has been made in connection with the 2019 murder of a Winter Garden business owner.

The suspect, who has a criminal history, was taken into custody by US Marshals.

Authorities are also investigating the possibility of more suspects being involved in the crime.

The victim, a well-known member of the community, was shot and killed in his own garage.

The arrest brings some closure to the case, but the investigation is ongoing to determine if others were involved in the heinous crime.

Read More...

This Week...

📰 Welcome to this week's Local Lowdown! 🌟 Dive into the latest from our neighborhood, with updates that bring you closer to the heartbeat of our community. Whether you're looking for exciting events, community highlights, or just curious about local happenings, we've got you covered! 🏡✨
A FedEx truck crashed into a ditch and caught fire on Florida's Turnpike near Winter Garden.

The incident occurred early in the morning, causing heavy traffic delays in the area.

The driver of the truck was not injured in the crash, and firefighters quickly extinguished the flames.

The cause of the crash is currently under investigation, and crews worked to remove the damaged truck from the scene.

Read More...
Dr.

Natalia Coelho from Winter Garden has won the Ms.

Olympia bodybuilding competition for the second time.

Coelho, a chiropractor, originally won the prestigious title in 2020 and has now reclaimed the title in 2025.

She competed against top bodybuilders from all over the world to achieve this victory.

Coelho's dedication and hard work have paid off, solidifying her status as one of the top bodybuilding athletes in the world.

Read More...
Heavy rainfall in Ocoee, Florida on Sunday caused a washout on Crown Point Road, leading to a road closure for repairs.

The washout created a hole in the road that is about 12 feet wide and 5 feet deep.

Crews are working to fix the road, which is expected to take several days to complete.

The closure of Crown Point Road has caused traffic detours in the area.

Drivers are urged to avoid the area until repairs are finished.

Read More...

Today's Weather Outlook 

🌤️ Winter Garden Early Week Forecast (Jan 26 – Jan 28, 2026)

Here’s what to expect in Winter Garden, Florida for the start of the week:

  • Monday, January 26, 2026: High: ~74 °F (~23 °C), Low: ~58 °F (~14 °C)Partly sunny and mild with a light morning breeze; comfortable afternoon and evening.
  • Tuesday, January 27, 2026: High: ~73 °F (~23 °C), Low: ~57 °F (~14 °C)Mostly cloudy with brief passing showers possible; mild and humid.
  • Wednesday, January 28, 2026: High: ~74 °F (~23 °C), Low: ~58 °F (~14 °C)Partly sunny with light clouds; pleasant afternoon and calm evening.

Overall: Late January brings **mild and comfortable conditions**, with mostly sunny or partly cloudy skies.

Small chances of brief showers midweek; perfect for outdoor activities, walking, or enjoying local cafés.

Tip: Layer clothing for cooler mornings/evenings, enjoy outdoor plans during midday when temperatures peak, and carry a light jacket or umbrella just in case.

☀️🌤️

🌳GET OUT  & GO

 Get out & go today - embrace the thrill of the outdoors and let every step be an adventure! 🌍✨

 

  • Art in Public Places Gallery Exhibit
  • Winter Garden Farmers Market
  • Orlando Outdoor Market

🎉 Winter Garden Events

Monday – Wednesday · January 26 – January 28, 2026

📅 Ongoing Through Jan 28

Art in Public Places Gallery Exhibit
🕐 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Mon–Fri) | 📍 City Hall, 300 W Plant St
“Creative Spirit of Winter Garden” exhibit at City Hall — free to visit with works from local artists.

Central Florida Railroad Museum Exhibition
🕐 Tue–Fri 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM | 📍 101 S Boyd St
“Railroad Depots of Central Florida” exhibit — free admission and part of local heritage programming.

Winter Garden Heritage Museum Exhibit
🕐 Tue–Fri hours apply | 📍 Winter Garden Heritage Museum
“Champions of West Orange County: A Legacy of Athletic Excellence” — stories and memorabilia celebrating local sports figures.

📅 Community Activity

Winter Garden Farmers Market
🕗 Saturdays Only | 📍 Downtown Pavilion
Open every Saturday with local produce, artisan goods, and food vendors — not on Jan 26–28 but great for the weekend before/after.

📍 Nearby Ongoing Community Options

Orlando Outdoor Market
🕗 Weekends in Orlando | 📍 Central Florida Fairgrounds
Local vendors and artisan stalls every Saturday & Sunday near Winter Garden area.

Sunday Artisan Market @ Dellagio
🕗 Sundays | 📍 Dellagio Town Center, Orlando
Food trucks, crafts, and local makers — great add‑on around your Winter Garden visit.

📅 Some exhibits and community offerings run throughout January 2026 — please check official Winter Garden event listings and venue hours before visiting.

Business Buzz!

We are thrilled to announce Winter Garden, Florida's latest business addition! 🌟 Stay tuned for exciting updates on community initiatives and opportunities in the heart of Palm Bay!

 

 

  • Winter Garden City Commission Approves Business Plan to Elevate Garden Theatre as Cultural Hub
  • Duke Energy Florida Introduces 'Go Green' Program in Winter Garden to Provide Customers with Renewable Energy Options
The Winter Garden City Commission has approved a business plan for the Garden Theatre, including partnerships with local organizations, event planning, and financial goals.

The plan aims to increase revenue, expand programming, and actively promote the theater as a cultural hub.

The theater will focus on strategic marketing, community engagement, and building relationships with sponsors to ensure its success as a vital part of the Winter Garden community.

Read More...
Duke Energy Florida has launched a new energy program in Winter Garden, offering customers the opportunity to receive clean energy from renewable sources for a small additional fee.

The program, called "Go Green," allows customers to support renewable energy initiatives and reduce their carbon footprint.

Participants can choose to have a percentage of their energy usage from renewable sources, with the option to cancel at any time.

Duke Energy aims to increase access to renewable energy and help customers make environmentally conscious choices.

Read More...

Business Spotlight✨

 

🌟 Winter Garden Business Spotlight: Chef’s Table at the Edgewater

 

Chef’s Table at the Edgewater is one of Winter Garden’s standout dining destinations, offering a refined culinary experience in the heart of the historic Edgewater Hotel. Known for their seasonal, locally inspired menu and exceptional service, this restaurant brings elegance and flavor together for every guest.

 

🍽️ Where Elegance Meets Flavor

Nestled in the historic Edgewater Hotel, Chef’s Table at the Edgewater offers a refined dining experience that showcases the best of Florida’s seasonal ingredients. Guests can choose between the intimate Chef’s Table, where they can observe the culinary team in action, or the lively Tasting Room, which serves small plates, craft beer, and a full bar. Orlando Magazine

 


🗣️ What Guests Are Saying

"An unforgettable dining experience—every dish is a masterpiece, and the ambiance is unparalleled."
— Emily R., Winter Garden resident

"A true gem in Winter Garden. The Chef’s Table is perfect for special occasions or a memorable night out."
— John D., Winter Garden resident


🎉 Visit Chef’s Table at the Edgewater

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a night out, Chef’s Table at the Edgewater promises an exceptional dining experience.

📍 99 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, FL 34787
🌐 www.chefstablerestaurant.com
📲 facebook.com/chefstablerestaurant

 


Thank you for supporting the local businesses that make Winter Garden a vibrant and thriving community!

#WinterGardenProud #SupportLocal #MayorsBusinessSpotlight #ChefsTableWinterGarden

Lake Apopka, bordering Winter Garden, was once the fourth-largest lake in Florida? It was historically a fishing paradise before environmental decline in the mid-20th century.

The Savvy Spender's Guide

Welcome to The Savvy Spender's Guide, where we equip you with smart strategies and the latest insights to optimize your spending habits and maximize savings. 🎯 Whether you're navigating through the complexities of personal finance or seeking simple tips for everyday savings, we're here to empower you on your journey to financial freedom. 💡

 

❄️ Smart Steps for Planning Your Financial Goals This New Year 💰📊
A fresh year is the perfect time to reset your finances and build smarter money habits. With a little planning and intention, you can take control of your spending and work toward the goals that matter most. Here’s how to start the year strong as a savvy spender:

 

📅 Set Clear & Realistic Goals – Define what you want to achieve this year, whether it’s saving for an emergency fund, paying off debt, or planning a big purchase. Break big goals into smaller, achievable milestones.

 

📝 Review Last Year’s Spending – Look back at where your money went. Identifying patterns and unnecessary expenses helps you make smarter decisions moving forward.

 

💳 Create (or Refresh) Your Budget – Build a budget that fits your lifestyle. Make room for essentials, savings, and a little fun so it’s easier to stick with it long-term.

 

🏦 Pay Yourself First – Automate your savings, even if it’s a small amount. Treat saving like a non-negotiable bill to build consistency throughout the year.

 

🎯 Prioritize High-Impact Goals – Focus on what will make the biggest difference, such as clearing high-interest debt or growing your emergency fund before taking on new financial commitments.

 

📉 Cut Costs Strategically – Cancel unused subscriptions, shop smarter, and compare prices before big purchases. Small cuts can add up to big savings over time.

 

📊 Track Progress & Adjust – Check in on your goals monthly or quarterly. Life changes, and your plan can too — adjusting keeps you on track instead of feeling discouraged.

 

✅ Takeaway: A successful financial year starts with intention, planning, and consistency. By setting clear goals and making mindful money choices, you’ll build confidence, reduce stress, and spend smarter all year long. Here’s to a financially savvy and successful new year! 🎉💰

Winter Garden Snapshot

The lake never stood a chance—new swimmers completed their first Lucky’s Lake Swim with Winter Garden Tri Club support! 🌊👏

That's the lowdown for today!

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

Craftsman-style homes are a Winter Garden hallmark.

🌟 Help us grow by sharing this email with a neighbor, and if you have a news tip, simply hit reply! 📩


🌐 Stay connected by visiting our website at https://rootedinwintergarden.com

📘 Follow us on Facebook for news and updates: facebook.com/rootedinwintergarden
👥 Join the conversation in our community group: facebook.com/groups/rootedinwintergarden

 

Check out our local business directory: https://zaarhub.com

See you tomorrow,

 

- Rooted in Winter Garden Team

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Rooted in Winter Garden keeps you in the know with the latest on local news, events, and business spotlights. Delivered weekly, it’s the essential guide for anyone who wants to experience Winter Garden at its best.

© 2026 Rooted in Winter Garden.

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