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Winter Garden controversy: Odometer fraud, historic hotel restoration, and recycling changes! #RootedinWinterGarden 🌳

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Winter Garden controversy: Odometer fraud, historic hotel restoration, and recycling changes! #RootedinWinterGarden 🌳

Winter Garden controversy: Odometer fraud, historic hotel restoration, and recycling changes! #RootedinWinterGarden 🌳
Winter Garden news: New ordinances, Boys & Girls Club empowers youth, historic hotel restoration, weather outlook, DIY Wednesday, business buzz, movie magic at Garden Theatre, and more! Exciting updates from our thriving community.

Rooted in Winter Garden Team

Nov 12, 2025

November Edition

Greetings

Hey there, amazing readers! πŸ‘‹

Happy November 12, 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

 

  • Winter Garden Commission Implements New Ordinances and Considers Recycling Changes
  • New Boys & Girls Club Facility in Winter Garden to Empower Local Youth.
  • Local Developer Plans Restoration and Redevelopment of Historic Edgewater Hotel in Winter Garden, Florida

 

Get Out & Go!

 

  • Downtown Art Walk
  • Evening Jazz Concert
  • Farmers Market – Autumn Harvest Edition

 

Business Buzz

 

  • Unicorp Secures $73 Million Loan for Luxury Apartment Complex near Disney World in Winter Garden, Florida
  • The Garden Theatre in Winter Garden to Bring Back Movie Magic this Summer.

 

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

Trivia Question❓

What alternative school once served as the only high school in West Orange County?

Challenge: Do you know its mascot?

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!

The Local Lowdown

🌟 Uncover the Essence of Your Community: Stay updated with the latest happenings, hidden gems, and exciting events right in your neighborhood, making you feel more connected than ever!

 

  • Winter Garden Commission Implements New Ordinances and Considers Recycling Changes
  • New Boys & Girls Club Facility in Winter Garden to Empower Local Youth.
  • Local Developer Plans Restoration and Redevelopment of Historic Edgewater Hotel in Winter Garden, Florida

πŸ“° Winter Garden – News Highlights

Tuesday, November 11, 2025

🚧 Major Road Work on Daniels Road

The City of Winter Garden announced that lane closures and resurfacing on Daniels Road near the downtown area will continue through mid-November.

Motorists are advised to expect detours during daytime hours and plan alternative routes.

(City of Winter Garden)

πŸ— Expansion at Winter Garden Village Shopping Center

Construction is underway for a new retail wing at Winter Garden Village, adding multiple dining and shopping options.

Completion is expected in early 2026, with updated parking and pedestrian pathways for visitors.

(Orange Observer)

🎨 Winter Garden Art Stroll Returns This Weekend

Downtown Winter Garden will host its monthly Art Stroll this Saturday, featuring local artists, live music, and interactive workshops.

Families and visitors can enjoy gallery tours, hands-on art activities, and food trucks.

(Winter Garden Arts)

Also happening...

The Winter Garden Commission passed major ordinances, including one prohibiting panhandling near major roadways.

The commission also debated the future of recycling, considering options such as reducing pickup frequency or increasing rates.

The decision on recycling is pending more research.

Read More...
The Boys & Girls Club of Central Florida recently broke ground on a new facility in Winter Garden.

Funding for the project was provided by several donors, including Jon and Kimberly Sidoli.

The new facility will serve as a safe space for children to engage in educational and recreational programs.

It aims to empower youth in the community and provide resources to help them succeed academically and socially.

The facility is expected to open in 2025 and will feature various amenities, including educational classrooms, a gymnasium, and a technology lab.

Read More...
The historic Edgewater Hotel in Winter Garden, Florida has been sold to a local developer with plans for restoration and redevelopment.

The hotel has been a fixture in the area since the 1920s, but has been empty and in disrepair for the past decade.

The new owner intends to restore the hotel to its former glory and potentially add new amenities, such as a rooftop bar, to attract both locals and tourists.

The sale of the hotel is seen as a positive development for the Winter Garden community and may bring new life to the area.

Read More...

Today's Weather Outlook 

🌀️ Lake Nona Mid-Week Forecast (Nov 12 – Nov 14, 2025)

Here’s what to expect in Lake Nona over the upcoming three days:

  • Wednesday, November 12, 2025: High: ~82 Β°F, Low: ~64 Β°F – Partly sunny with light morning clouds; afternoon warm with gentle breezes.
  • Thursday, November 13, 2025: High: ~80 Β°F, Low: ~63 Β°F – Mostly sunny; mild humidity and comfortable for outdoor activities.
  • Friday, November 14, 2025: High: ~79 Β°F, Low: ~62 Β°F – Clear skies with cooler evening temperatures; ideal for evening walks or local events.

Overall: Expect **pleasant, mostly sunny, and mild** conditions throughout the mid-week in Lake Nona β€” perfect for outdoor errands, local events, or evening strolls.

Tip: Evenings may feel slightly cool β€” a light jacket or sweater is recommended for nighttime activities.

πŸŒ™

DIY Wednesday ✨

 

πŸ”₯ Get ready to unleash your inner creator: This DIY Wednesday promises to ignite your imagination like never before! 🌟

🌿 Homemade Potpourri: Create Fragrant Mixes with Dried Florida Botanicals

Bring the scents of Florida into your home with your own handmade potpourri.

Using dried local flowers, herbs, and citrus peels, you can craft aromatic mixes that add a natural fragrance to any room.

Homemade potpourri is not only easy to make but also makes a thoughtful gift for friends and family.

  • Select botanicals: Use dried flowers like hibiscus, marigold, or lavender, plus orange or grapefruit peels for a citrusy aroma.
  • Add natural scents: Enhance your potpourri with cinnamon sticks, cloves, or essential oils for a long-lasting fragrance.
  • Mix and display: Combine botanicals in a decorative bowl, glass jar, or sachet bagsβ€”stir gently to distribute scents evenly.
  • Refresh when needed: Lightly crush or add a few drops of essential oil to revive the aroma over time.
  • Personalize it: Experiment with colors, textures, and seasonal themes to match your home dΓ©cor or holidays.

🌸 Tip: Place your potpourri in entryways, bathrooms, or closets to enjoy a subtle, natural fragrance throughout your home.

With a few dried botanicals and your creative touch, you can craft beautiful, fragrant potpourri that refreshes your home naturally.

🎁✨

🌳GET OUT  & GO

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

 

  • Downtown Art Walk
  • Evening Jazz Concert
  • Farmers Market – Autumn Harvest Edition

πŸŽ‰ Winter Garden Events

Wednesday – Friday β€’ November 12–14, 2025

πŸ“… Wednesday β€’ Nov 12

Downtown Art & Coffee Walk
πŸ•™ 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | πŸ“ Historic Downtown Winter Garden
Explore local art galleries while enjoying complimentary coffee tastings from downtown cafes.

Family-friendly and casual.

Evening Jazz Concert
πŸ•– 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM | πŸ“ Winter Garden Heritage Foundation Amphitheater
Live jazz performances under the stars; bring blankets or chairs for seating.

Open to all ages.

πŸ“… Thursday β€’ Nov 13

Historic Downtown Walking Tour
πŸ•‘ 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM | πŸ“ Winter Garden Heritage Museum
Guided tour of downtown Winter Garden’s historic sites and stories.

Perfect for history enthusiasts and families.

Community Yoga in the Park
πŸ•• 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM | πŸ“ Newton Park, Winter Garden, FL
Free outdoor yoga session suitable for all levels.

Bring your mat and water bottle.

πŸ“… Friday β€’ Nov 14

Farmers Market – Autumn Harvest Edition
πŸ•— 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM | πŸ“ Downtown Winter Garden
Seasonal produce, handmade crafts, live music, and family-friendly activities celebrating the autumn harvest.

Outdoor Movie Night: "The Secret Garden"
πŸ•– 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM | πŸ“ Centennial Plaza Gazebo, Winter Garden
Free screening of the family favorite.

Bring blankets or lawn chairs for seating under the stars.

πŸ“Œ Events sourced from the official Winter Garden city calendar and community listings.

Please confirm times, locations, and registration requirements before attending.

(Winter Garden City Events Calendar)

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!

 

 

  • Unicorp Secures $73 Million Loan for Luxury Apartment Complex near Disney World in Winter Garden, Florida
  • The Garden Theatre in Winter Garden to Bring Back Movie Magic this Summer.
A Winter Garden car dealer has been accused of rolling back odometers on 140 vehicles, according to authorities.

The dealer allegedly tampered with the mileage readings on used cars to make them appear to have lower mileage in order to inflate their value.

The investigation is ongoing and the dealer could face criminal charges.

Customers who purchased cars from the dealer are urged to check the mileage on their vehicles and report any discrepancies to the authorities.

Read More...
The Garden Theatre in Winter Garden, Florida, is set to resume showing movies this summer as the city begins hosting events again.

The theater will offer a variety of classic and popular movies for families to enjoy.

The decision to reopen the theater and resume events comes as Winter Garden looks to revitalize its downtown area and bring back a sense of community following the pandemic.

Residents and visitors can look forward to a summer filled with entertainment and opportunities to come together once again.

Read More...

Green Living Tipβœ”οΈ

🐦 Backyard Bird Feeding: Attracting and Supporting Florida's Diverse Avian Residents

Create a safe and welcoming environment for Florida’s birds by offering food, water, and natural shelter right in your backyard.

Florida is home to a wide variety of resident and migratory bird species.

By choosing the right feeders, planting native vegetation, and keeping your yard bird-friendly, you can support local wildlife while enjoying the beauty and activity of birds visiting your outdoor space.

🌾 Offer a Variety of Feeders

  • Use seed, suet, nectar, and platform feeders to attract different bird species.
  • Fill feeders with black oil sunflower, nyjer seed, millet, and peanuts.
  • Clean feeders regularly to prevent mold and diseases.

πŸ’§ Provide Fresh Water

  • Place a shallow birdbath or dish where birds can safely drink and bathe.
  • Change water daily and clean the bowl to prevent algae growth.
  • Add a dripper or small fountain to attract more species with moving water.

🌿 Use Native Plants for Food & Shelter

  • Plant native shrubs, wildflowers, and trees that produce berries, seeds, and nectar.
  • Create natural shelter using dense shrubs or brush piles.
  • Provide nesting boxes appropriate for species in your area.

πŸ›‘οΈ Keep Birds Safe

  • Place feeders away from windows to reduce collision risks.
  • Keep cats and pets indoors or away from feeding zones.
  • Clear old seed hulls and debris to maintain a healthy environment.

🌎 Tip: Rotate food types throughout the year to support seasonal migrants and wintering birds.

A well-designed bird-friendly yard helps local ecosystems and brings daily enjoyment.

πŸ’šπŸ¦

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

 


πŸ—£οΈ What Guests Are Saying

"An unforgettable dining experienceβ€”every dish is a masterpiece, and the ambiance is unparalleled."
β€” 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."
β€” John D., Winter Garden resident


πŸŽ‰ 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.

πŸ“ 99 W. Plant St., Winter Garden, FL 34787
🌐 www.chefstablerestaurant.com
πŸ“² facebook.com/chefstablerestaurant

 


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

#WinterGardenProud #SupportLocal #MayorsBusinessSpotlight #ChefsTableWinterGarden

Winter Garden Snapshot

The lake never stood a chanceβ€”new swimmers completed their first Lucky’s Lake Swim with Winter Garden Tri Club support! πŸŒŠπŸ‘

That's the lowdown for today!

πŸ’‘ Answer to Trivia Question:

 

Lakeview High School now functions as an alternative school.

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


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

πŸ“˜ Follow us on Facebook for news and updates: facebook.com/rootedinwintergarden
πŸ‘₯ Join the conversation in our community group: facebook.com/groups/rootedinwintergarden

 

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

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Β 

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.

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