Greetings

Hey there, amazing readers! 👋

Happy February 06, 2026! 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 Nonprofit Brings Holiday Cheer to Hospitalized Children
  
• Winter Garden Leaders Approve Reopening Plan for Historic Theater
  
• Winter Garden Chiropractor Wins Ms. Olympia Bodybuilding Competition for Second Consecutive Year

Get Out & Go!

• Art Exhibit: “Creative Spirit of Winter Garden
  
• Downtown Winter Garden Farmers Market
• Sip, Snack, Shop and Socialize” Community Event

Business Buzz

• Support Small Businesses at Winter Garden's Small Business Saturday
• Winter Garden to Introduce Zero Energy-Ready Townhomes in Collaboration with Meritage Homes and DOE

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

What historic high school opened in 1927 to serve all West Orange County?

Challenge: See if you know anyone whose parents or grandparents attended.

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 Nonprofit Brings Holiday Cheer to Hospitalized Children
  
• Winter Garden Leaders Approve Reopening Plan for Historic Theater
  
• Winter Garden Chiropractor Wins Ms. Olympia Bodybuilding Competition for Second Consecutive Year

In 2010, Rene Porter of Winter Garden was deeply moved when she saw young Greyson Heineke’s hospital room filled with Christmas spirit—stockings, lights, and a small decorated tree brightened the challenging days as his family searched for answers to his seizures.

Galvanized by that memory, Porter launched The Greyson Project in 2015, honoring Greyson’s life and legacy after his early passing.

The nonprofit delivers cheerful holiday decor to hospital-bound families, making sterile rooms feel welcoming and filled with hope.

Since beginning, over 15,000 decorated bags—with trees, garlands, lights, and DIY kits—have brought comfort in 15 states.

Community support fuels the movement, with businesses like Pammie’s Sammies hosting donation drives and volunteers delivering festive bags, ensuring families feel the magic of the holidays even during hardship.

Each room transformation offers families relief, joy, and a shared sense of belonging during the season.

The Winter Garden City Commission has unanimously approved a bold plan to revive the historic Garden Theatre, bringing new hope to this beloved local venue.

Closed suddenly in October 2024 because of financial hardship, the theater’s comeback strategy was shaped with input from arts consultant Alauna Friskics.

The reopening model will spotlight concerts, movies, camps, and classes in its first year, focusing on engaging the community while controlling expenses.

Full theatrical productions are set to return in the second year, ensuring stability before expanding programming.

Management will be handled by a third-party company, with the city sharing oversight and costs. City Manager Jon Williams shared optimism for the theater’s renewed role as a cultural anchor.

Officials hope to reopen the Garden Theatre by summer, launching camps and classes for local children and reestablishing its vital community presence.

Today's Weather Outlook 

WEEKEND REMINDER

🌸 Weekend Reminder: Pamper Yourself! 🌸

Hey there! Just a gentle nudge to remember that the weekend is your time to recharge. Whether it’s a long bath, a cozy book, your favorite music, or simply doing absolutely nothing—treat yourself with the love and care you deserve. 💆‍♀️✨

Your mind, body, and soul will thank you. Take this weekend to unwind, refresh, and embrace a little self-indulgence. 🌿💖

🌳GET OUT  & GO

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

• Art Exhibit: “Creative Spirit of Winter Garden
  
• Downtown Winter Garden Farmers Market
• Sip, Snack, Shop and Socialize” Community Event
  

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!

• Support Small Businesses at Winter Garden's Small Business Saturday
• Winter Garden to Introduce Zero Energy-Ready Townhomes in Collaboration with Meritage Homes and DOE

Historic Downtown Winter Garden welcomes you to Small Business Saturday on November 29, a special day devoted to championing local, independent shops.

From 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., stroll the picturesque, brick-lined streets and discover exciting sales, one-of-a-kind promotions, and the friendly faces behind your favorite mom-and-pop businesses.

The festive atmosphere grows with live music at Centennial Plaza — enjoy Brian and Hannah's soulful jazz, Motown, and R&B sounds from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., followed by the Joey & Danielle Duo performing a lively mix of jazz, rock, country, and pop from 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Experience a wide variety of local eateries, from cozy coffee shops to delightful bakeries and farm-to-table restaurants.

Free parking is conveniently available at several downtown locations, making your visit easy.

Support small businesses and help Winter Garden’s community spirit shine.

Outdoor & Survival

🌿 Outdoor & Living Survival

Gear Maintenance and Storage for Florida's Outdoor Equipment

Proper maintenance and storage of outdoor gear ensures your equipment lasts longer and performs reliably, especially in Florida’s humid and variable climate.

From hiking boots to camping tents, a little routine care goes a long way in protecting your investments and keeping your adventures safe.

• Clean Gear After Each Use: Remove dirt, sand, and salt residue from tents, backpacks, and footwear to prevent mold and material degradation.
• Dry Thoroughly: Florida humidity promotes mildew.
  
  Air-dry tents, tarps, and clothing completely before storing to avoid odors and rot.
• Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid attics or garages that heat up; choose shaded indoor areas or breathable storage bags to preserve fabrics and materials.
• Inspect and Repair: Check for tears, loose stitching, or broken hardware.
  
  Repair minor damage promptly to prevent it from worsening.
• Maintain Tools and Metal Gear: Clean, dry, and lightly oil knives, axes, and other metal tools to prevent rust from Florida’s moisture.
• Rotate Seasonal Equipment: Keep frequently used items accessible while storing off-season gear safely in labeled bins or racks to reduce wear.

Tip: Use silica gel packs or moisture absorbers in storage containers to reduce humidity and protect sensitive items like electronics, sleeping bags, and tents.

⚠️ Safety: Always check gear functionality before heading outdoors.

Faulty equipment can create dangerous situations in remote areas — a quick pre-trip inspection is essential.

Trivia Challenge!

"Congratulations to all who participated in this week's trivia! To enter our weekly drawing for a [local prize,
e.g., gift card to a local restaurant], email us your answers to all three trivia questions by February 06, 2026 at 8 PM.

Lakeview High School served the region starting in 1927.

That's the Pulse to get your weekend started!
Have a fantastic time out there enjoying Winter Garden, Florida. See an adorable pet? Send us a picture!

🌟 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: zaarhub.com

See you tomorrow,

- Rooted in Winter Garden Team