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Controversial Winter Garden Stories: Holiday Displays Threatened, Murder-Suicide Shocks Community, New Alcohol Sales Ordinance🔥
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Controversial Winter Garden Stories: Holiday Displays Threatened, Murder-Suicide Shocks Community, New Alcohol Sales Ordinance🔥
Rooted in Winter Garden Team
Nov 26, 2025
Greetings |
Hey there, amazing readers! 👋 Happy November 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: |
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The Local Lowdown
Get Out & Go!
Business Buzz
Stay connected for more updates this week — let’s work together to make it a great one for Winter Garden, Florida. 🌴 |
Trivia Question❓What was Winter Garden’s main mode of citrus transport before trucks? Challenge: Picture the traffic jams back then. Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
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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!
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📰 Winter Garden – News HighlightsTuesday, November 25, 2025 🚧 Ongoing Road Maintenance on Plant Street
Road maintenance continues along Plant Street with lane adjustments and minor resurfacing expected this week. 🏗 West Orange Plaza Expansion Progress
Construction at West Orange Plaza is progressing, with new retail and dining options anticipated to open by mid-2026. 🎨 Winter Garden Art Stroll – November Showcase
This Saturday, downtown Winter Garden will host the monthly Art Stroll, featuring local artists, live performances, and interactive workshops. |
Also happening... |
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WINTER GARDEN, Fla. — The beloved Williams Holiday House, famous for its festive Halloween and Christmas decorations, is at risk after Orange County Code Enforcement issued code violations.
For nearly 50 years, Annie and Joe Williams have transformed their Victorian home into a seasonal attraction, drawing crowds from across the area.
Prompted by a neighbor's complaint, officials cited the property for unpermitted tents, carports, a water feature, and inoperable vehicles—a blow to the family’s cherished tradition.
Facing fines of up to $1,000 per day, the Williams have reluctantly begun removing items, including a vintage fire truck that held special meaning.
The community has rallied, with over 13,000 signatures on a petition in support, emphasizing the displays’ importance for local families and children.
Despite heartbreak, the Williams are working towards compliance, hopeful that their treasured holiday displays will return for Winter Garden residents. Read More... |
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The Winter Garden community is mourning after a tragic murder-suicide occurred on November 1 at 16569 Broadwater Avenue.
Carissa Raquel Fleegle, 52, and Gary Robert Fleegle, 55, lost their lives in the incident, discovered by authorities shortly before noon.
Gary Fleegle, an esteemed CEO originally from Johnstown, Pennsylvania, led the National Center for Defense Manufacturing and Machining.
Their son, Bobby Fleegle, expressed deep sorrow, emphasizing the enduring light of his mother’s spirit even in this time of heartbreak.
A memorial service for Carissa Fleegle will be held November 12 in Johnstown.
To support the grieving family, a Meal Train fundraiser has been launched, with over $13,000 raised toward its $15,000 goal.
Local residents are encouraged to donate groceries, restaurant meals, or gift cards to help the Fleegles through this difficult period. Read More... |
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The Orange County Medical Clinic’s Community Outreach team is offering free biometric health screenings at the Outlook Clinic, 901 W. Church St., Orlando.
Residents aged 18 and older can receive blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar checks with no registration required.
Screenings are available on select dates throughout December 2025, with times varying by day.
This outreach aims to expand local access to vital health services and encourages attendees to bring friends for support.
Healthcare professionals will be on-site to answer any questions.
While the Orange County Medical Clinic will be present as a vendor, they are not the event’s main organizer.
Event details may change, so it’s important to check with organizers for updates.
Information is available in English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole, with accessibility support for those with disabilities or language needs, reflecting Orange County’s commitment to equal access. Read More... |
Today's Weather Outlook |
🌤️ Winter Garden Mid-Week Forecast (Nov 26 – Nov 28, 2025)Here’s what to expect in Winter Garden over the upcoming three days:
Overall: Expect warm and mostly sunny conditions in Winter Garden, with comfortable evenings — great for outdoor plans, errands, and enjoying local events. Tip: Early mornings and evenings may feel slightly cool — keep a light jacket or sweater handy. |
DIY Wednesday ✨ |
🔥 Get ready to unleash your inner creator: This DIY Wednesday promises to ignite your imagination like never before! 🌟 |
🛠️ DIY Wednesday: Easy Recipe Card Holders to Keep Your Favorites Organized
If you love cooking or collecting handwritten recipes, a simple recipe card holder can keep your kitchen neat and your favorite meals accessible.
💡 Tip: Choose materials that match your kitchen aesthetic—wood for rustic charm, acrylic for a modern look, or colorful clips for a playful touch.
With these quick and creative recipe card holders, keeping your favorite dishes within reach becomes both practical and stylish. |
🌳GET OUT & GO |
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Get out & go today - embrace the thrill of the outdoors and let every step be an adventure! 🌍✨
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🎉 Winter Garden EventsWednesday – Friday • November 26–28, 2025 📅 Wednesday • Nov 26Thanksgiving Week Farmers Market Art in the Park – Evening Exhibit 📅 Thursday • Nov 27Thanksgiving Parade & Celebration Outdoor Yoga – Post-Parade Session 📅 Friday • Nov 28Small Business Saturday – Downtown Shops Evening Holiday Lights Kickoff
📌 Events sourced from the official Winter Garden city calendar and community listings. |
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!
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Beginning January 1, 2025, Winter Garden will enforce a new ordinance restricting alcohol sales after midnight unless venues secure a special permit.
The City Commission approved the rule unanimously, targeting late-night disturbances and aiming to preserve the city’s family-friendly vibe.
Officials cited a rise in complaints over noise and disruptive behavior linked to late-night drinking as a driving force behind the decision.
Businesses wanting to serve alcohol past midnight must obtain an Extension of Hours Permit and hire licensed security during those extended hours.
Violations may trigger warnings, meetings with city officials, or even suspension of special permits.
Some local businesses worry about the new costs and potential impact on nightlife, while city leaders stress the need to balance economic and community interests.
Residents remain divided, with opinions split between support for public safety and concerns over nightlife restrictions. Read More... |
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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. Read More... |
Green Living Tip✔️ |
🍃 Sustainable Leaf Management: Composting & Mulching Fallen Leaves for Healthier Soil
Turn autumn leaves into a valuable resource.
Fallen leaves are nature’s fertilizer. 🧺 Compost Leaves Naturally
🌿 Mulch for Moisture & Weed Control
🌎 Reduce Outdoor Waste
🍂 Create a Leaf Mold Pile
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Business Spotlight✨ |
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🌟 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
🎉 Visit Chef’s Table at the EdgewaterWhether 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
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 chance—new swimmers completed their first Lucky’s Lake Swim with Winter Garden Tri Club support! 🌊👏 |
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That's the lowdown for today! |
💡 Answer to Trivia Question:
Mule-drawn wagons carried fruit to the railway. |
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Check out our local business directory: https://zaarhub.com |
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See you tomorrow,
- Rooted in Winter Garden Team |
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