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Winter Garden's Controversial News: MLK Day Parade, Historic Building Transformation, Youth Empowerment, Odometer Fraud Scandal, and More!🔥
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Winter Garden's Controversial News: MLK Day Parade, Historic Building Transformation, Youth Empowerment, Odometer Fraud Scandal, and More!🔥
Rooted in Winter Garden Team
Jan 28, 2026
Greetings |
Hey there, amazing readers! 👋 Happy January 28, 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: |
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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 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 |
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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, January 27, 2026 🏙 “Old Packing House” Project Moves Forward
City leaders have approved additional building plans to transform the former citrus packing plant into the mixed‑use “Old Packing House” neighborhood market, clearing key development hurdles and reinforcing revitalization efforts in Winter Garden’s historic district. 🌿 Oakland Nature Preserve Lunch & Learn Scheduled
The Winter Garden Heritage Foundation will host a “Lunch & Learn” presentation about the Oakland Nature Preserve featuring insights from the preserve’s managing director. 🎉 Local Business Anniversary Celebration
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Also happening... |
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Ocoee marked its 18th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Parade and Celebration on January 19, 2026, uniting hundreds of residents to honor the civil rights leader’s legacy.
The parade set off at 10 a.m. from Citrus Elementary, winding down Clarke Road to West Oaks Mall, with local officials, school bands, and community groups taking part despite the chill.
Afterward, the West Oaks Mall food court buzzed as Ocoee resident Ages Hart delivered a keynote stressing unity and the ongoing fight for justice.
Senator LaVon Bracy Davis inspired reflection on Dr. King's enduring message of persistent determination.
Mayor Rusty Johnson voiced his pride in the city’s nearly two decades of celebration, calling it “a great day” for all.
The event also featured youth voices, including sixth-grader Joshua Metellus, who read his winning essay on Ocoee’s bright future.
Community groups like the Jamaican American Association promoted unity, love, and freedom, reinforcing Ocoee’s commitment to Dr. King’s dream. Read More... |
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Winter Garden is set to revitalize its heritage with the redevelopment of the historic 'Old Packing House' into a vibrant community hub.
On January 22, 2026, the City Commission unanimously approved plans to transform the landmark 1909 citrus packing plant on Tildenville School Road.
The project preserves the site's industrial character while introducing fresh amenities.
Future visitors can expect a blend of art galleries, dining spots, shops, and professional offices, creating a lively destination for locals and tourists.
Improvements include new parking, landscaped grounds, outdoor seating, and accessible sidewalks.
Facilities for bicycles and golf carts further promote sustainable neighborhood connections.
Located on a 3.7-acre site, the redevelopment honors Winter Garden’s citrus legacy and fits the city’s growth vision.
Construction is set to begin soon, aiming for completion by summer 2026.
This ambitious project reflects the community’s enthusiasm and commitment to both history and progress. 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... |
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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... |
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Today's Weather Outlook |
🌤️ Winter Garden Mid‑Week Forecast (Jan 28 – Jan 30, 2026)Here’s what to expect in Winter Garden, Florida, over the upcoming three days:
Overall: Expect an extended **cool but mostly dry mid‑week** stretch in Winter Garden. Tip: With chilly mornings and frost possible, protect sensitive plants and consider light layers if you’re heading out early! |
DIY Wednesday ✨ |
🔥 Get ready to unleash your inner creator: This DIY Wednesday promises to ignite your imagination like never before! 🌟 |
🧼 Homemade Hand Soaps: Create Luxurious and Natural Soaps
Elevate your everyday handwashing routine by making your own homemade hand soaps.
🌿 Tip: For an extra spa-like feel, pair citrus oils with rosemary or mint for an uplifting, clean scent.
With just a few ingredients and a little creativity, you can craft beautiful hand soaps that turn a simple routine into a soothing self-care moment. |
🌳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 • January 28–30, 2026 📅 Wednesday • Jan 28Winter Garden Coffee & Art Walk Evening Jazz by the Lake 📅 Thursday • Jan 29Historic Downtown Walking Tour Sunset Yoga in Newton Park 📅 Friday • Jan 30Farmers Market – Winter Harvest Edition Outdoor Movie Night: "Paddington 2"
📌 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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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... |
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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... |
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Green Living Tip✔️ |
🌎 Giving Back to Nature: Volunteering for Local Environmental Initiatives in FloridaMake a meaningful impact by supporting Florida’s natural spaces through hands-on community involvement.
From beaches and wetlands to parks and wildlife habitats, Florida offers countless opportunities to give back to nature. 🌊 Join Beach & Park Cleanups
🌱 Support Habitat Restoration
🐢 Volunteer with Wildlife Programs
🤝 Get Involved Locally
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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:
Lakeview High School now functions as an alternative school. |
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See you tomorrow,
- Rooted in Winter Garden Team |
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