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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Winter Garden real estate scene remains active, highlighted by the sale of Home Again Ranch on Walker Pond Road.

This expansive, five-bedroom estate sold for $2.84 million after 54 days on the market, represented by Simon Simaan of the Simon Simaan Group.

Several other properties also changed hands in November, spanning neighborhoods like Glenview Estates, Oakland Trails, Oaks at Brandy Lake, and Stoneybrook West.

Homes ranging from three to five bedrooms and sale prices between $475,000 and $715,000 drew attention, with days on market ranging from as few as 5 to as many as 461.

These sales showcase both the variety and demand in Winter Garden, from luxury ranches to family-friendly communities.

Buyers are moving quickly on properties, reinforcing Winter Garden’s position as a thriving, desirable place to call home.

The Central Florida real estate market is seeing a notable shift, now favoring buyers after a decade-long seller’s streak.

Orlando’s July 2025 median home price held steady at $389,999, while average days on market stretched to 69 days, hinting at slower sales.

Housing supply increased to 5.31 months, suggesting a more balanced market landscape.

The July mortgage interest rate eased to 6.5%, the lowest locally this year, offering some relief to prospective buyers.

Carmelo Nuccio of RE/MAX sees this as a chance for buyers to gain leverage, comparing it to “buying at the dip.”

Still, West Orange—powered by top schools and proximity to Walt Disney World—remains pricey, especially in Winter Garden, Ocoee, Windermere, and Horizon West.

Nuccio urges first-time buyers to consider Tavares, Sorrento, Apopka, and Lakeland for greater affordability and future opportunity.

He predicts more market changes by spring 2026 as interest rates potentially stabilize.

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 Heritage Foundation is welcoming the holidays with its first-ever Oranges & Ornaments: A Festival of Trees at Heller Hall, 21 E. Plant St., right in downtown Winter Garden.

Festivities unfold Friday, November 21, from 5:00 to 8:30 p.m., and pick up again Saturday, November 22, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Visitors will find beautifully decorated, themed holiday trees on display—each available for purchase—and a vibrant atmosphere brimming with local artistry and hometown pride.

The Friday opening reception sold out quickly, revealing just how excited the community is for this new holiday tradition.

Saturday welcomes families with cheerful visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, festive photo ops, lively raffles, and delicious seasonal treats.

Early bird ticket pricing ends November 1, so reserve your spot soon for an unforgettable holiday experience while supporting Winter Garden’s cherished history.

Windermere High School junior Rylee Erisman has taken the swimming world by storm, shattering the national high school record in the 100-yard freestyle with a blazing 46.73 seconds during the FHSAA Class 4A Championships on November 14, 2025.

Her remarkable swim broke Gretchen Walsh’s 2020 record and set a new standard for high school athletes nationwide.

Erisman also dominated the 50-yard freestyle, clocking 21.67 seconds, and helped Windermere’s relay teams earn a state record and victory in two key events.

These performances propelled Windermere High to a runner-up finish at the state meet.

Already wooed by top college programs, Erisman’s decision is highly anticipated.

Internationally, she shone at the World Aquatics Junior Championships in Romania, earning eight medals and setting a world junior relay record.

The community eagerly awaits what barriers she’ll topple next.

Winter Garden, Florida is buzzing with growth and new community ventures.

AdventHealth Winter Garden has topped out its new patient tower, advancing plans to add OB/GYN services, operating rooms, and 80 more inpatient beds—raising the hospital’s capacity to 176 licensed beds.

The AdventHealth Cancer Institute is underway, aiming to deliver full cancer care by summer 2026.

Downtown, the historic Garden Theatre will soon reopen as a hub for concerts, movies, and events, with live plays expected after the first year.

Food lovers can anticipate AJ’s Pizza Joint bringing Brooklyn-style pies to Plant Street and Philly Pretzel Factory landing at Avamar Crossing.

A proposed $300 million project on East Plant Street could reshape the city with a soccer stadium, hotel, commercial space, new housing, and recreational fields.

Recent and upcoming events—like the Farmers Market anniversary and Holiday Night Market—highlight Winter Garden’s strong community spirit and evolving local charm.