 February 2023
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Winter Garden Heritage and Music FestivalCelebrating City’s 120th Anniversary
Established in 1903, the City of Winter Garden commemorates its heritage with a free 120th anniversary extravaganza for the community on Saturday, February 11, 11:00 am - 10:00 pm. The Winter Garden Heritage & Music Festival in historic downtown will include 30+ entertainment acts across six stages, strolling performers, a kids' zone area, history walking tours, heritage activities, and more! The event is fun for all ages. For entertainment and event schedule, click here. LIVE MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT AND A KIDS’ ZONE
Simultaneous and continuous performances will be held at various outdoor stages throughout downtown stretching from Central Avenue to Dillard Street. The entertainment kicks off at 11:00 am and continues nonstop through 10:00 pm. A few of the many high caliber performances include Selwyn Birchwood, L & G Live Duo, Flight Scene, Big Ron Betts, and Michael Andrew & Swingerhead. As part of the Festival, the First Baptist Church of Winter Garden (125 E. Plant Street) is celebrating its 135th anniversary and the 100th anniversary of its Old Sanctuary building with a host of “Back to the Future” activities and entertainment. Guests will enjoy the nostalgic stage show with Doc, Marty McFly, and a DeLorean, as well as live music and special guest Blippi, a popular children’s entertainer and educator. Visit the large kids’ zone area and hop on board the children’s train. In addition, fifteen 1920 vintage cars will be on display and there will be tours of the Old Sanctuary as well as historical displays. Hot dogs, popcorn, cakes, and pretzels will be available at roll back prices. HISTORY WALKING TOURS, SPECIAL HISTORICAL EXHIBITIONS & PRESENTATIONS
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, a great way to learn about the history of downtown is by taking a walking tour. The Winter Garden Heritage Foundation will host guided Walking Tours at 11:00 am, 12:00 pm, and 1:00 pm. The Winter Garden Heritage Museum and its Heller Hall, the SOBO Art Gallery, and City Hall’s Art in Public Places Gallery will all host special historical exhibitions. The Central Florida Railroad Museum, bursting with amazing historical railroad artifacts and memorabilia, will host a special presentation on the history of local railroads at 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm. Come celebrate your hometown’s momentous 120th anniversary brought to you by the City of Winter Garden, the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation, and other generous partners. Saturday, February 11 | 11:00 am – 10:00 pm Historic Downtown | Free
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Celebrate Valentine’s Day at the FarmersMarket on February 11
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Fun, sweets, flowers, gifts, and free kids' craft making – everything you need to celebrate Valentine’s Day can be found at the Winter Garden Farmers Market on Saturday, February 11. Complimentary special holiday craft making for children will take place at the KidZone tent at the Parking Garage Plaza, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm. The wide selection of vendors are perfect for shopping for something special for that someone special. Jewelry, scented soaps, flowers, desserts, and more can all be found at the market. In celebration of the Winter Garden Heritage Festival taking place at the same time, the first 120 market goers that visit the Information Tent at the entrance of the Pavilion will receive a complimentary commemorative City of Winter Garden 120th Anniversary tote bag. Saturday, February 11, 8:00 am – 1:00 pm Kids’ Valentine Craft Making | 9:00 am – 12:00 pm Downtown Pavilion, 104 S. Lakeview Avenue
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It is never too early to plan ahead with school spring break quickly approaching. There are some fun local options to keep them engaged. Space fills quickly so advance planning is beneficial. Winter Garden Parks & Recreation Spring Break CampThe Spring Break Camp, hosted by the Winter Garden Parks & Recreation Department, is a fun way for your school-aged children to spend their time off from school. Campers will enjoy various activities, sports, arts and crafts, and more alongside their friends. A qualified, well-trained staff will provide a safe and outstanding break for your child. Camp is open to all children in Kindergarten through 8th grade. Campers must bring a packed lunch, snacks, and a water bottle to camp every day. Camp dates: March 10, 13 - 17 7:00 am – 6:00 pm Camp is open to children Kindergarten through 8th grade $22 City Resident / $27 Nonresident, per day Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard Street Click here to register. Questions, call 407.656.4155. SOBO Art CampSOBO Art Gallery & Studio will host an art camp during spring break. Led by Lenore Eastham, Certified Art Educator, the camp session will provide a wide variety of art experiences. Click here to register. March 13 – 17 | 9:00 am – 12:00 pm Ages | 2nd Grade – 6th Grade Fee |$150, per Week / $35, per Individual Day
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Free Basic Self Defense Class for Women
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The Winter Garden Police Department is hosting a free basic self-defense class for women ages 13 and older on Thursday, February 2. A police officer who is certified using S.A.F.E. self-defense techniques will instruct the class. Make it a “ladies night” and learn some self-defense! February 2 | 6:00 - 8:30 pm | Free Winter Garden Police Department Training Room, 251 W. Plant Street Women only ages 13 and up To register, contact Officer Michaud at 407-656-3636 ext. 4405 or at gmichaud@wgpd.com.
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Citizens Police Academy AcceptingApplications
Curious about what goes on inside your police department? Get your questions answered at the next Citizens Police Academy to be held March 1 – April 26. Winter Garden police officers and staff present this free, nine-week course. The class meets on Wednesday evenings to discuss such topics as crime prevention, investigations, and police procedures. Class participants will also be eligible to go on a ride along with an officer! Academy Class Dates | March 1 to April 26 (May 3, make-up date) Wednesdays Only | 6:00 – 9:00 pm | Free Winter Garden Police Department Training Room, 251 W. Plant Street Eligibility requirements: - at least 18 years old
- live or work in City of Winter Garden
- no criminal record
Click here for an application or visit the Winter Garden Police Department. Seats fill fast so turn in your application quickly! Questions, contact Officer Gail Michaud or Officer Luis Velasquez at 407.656.3636 ext. 4416.
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City Hall Exhibit is a Tribute to Local African American Artists
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Visit the City Hall Art in Public Places Gallery this month to see the exhibition that explores a small portion of the continuous American struggle, which is an African American struggle. The exhibition showcases artwork by local artists of different artistic disciplines, unified under one brushstroke that shares one common denominator — Black excellence. Patrick Noze, Crealdé School of Art Senior Curator of Exhibitions, curated the exhibit. Reflection of Time: Tribute to Local African American Artists Now – February 28 Art in Public Places Gallery at City Hall Monday – Friday, 7:30 am – 5:30 pm (Feb. 11, 9:00 am – 10:00 pm) 300 W. Plant Street | Free
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Live Music Every Friday
Catch live music every Friday night from 7:00-9:00 pm in the center of Downtown at Centennial Plaza.
This month’s Fridays on the Plaza musical line-up: - February 3 - Grimes Alley (Country, Blues)
- February 10 - Brian & Hannah (Pop, Jazz)
- February 17 - Amy Robbins (American Folk, Acoustic)
- February 24 - Cam Gordon (Acoustic, Covers)
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WINTER FUN with PARKS & RECREATION!
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Click here for a list of Parks & Recreation programs, classes, sports leagues, as well as additional details about offerings below. Questions, call 407.656.4155.
Programs are held at the Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard Street, unless noted otherwise. Click here to register. Middle School Running And Conditioning ProgramParticipants will receive training that develops speed, stamina, and an understanding for fast-twitch/ slow-twitch muscle fibers. The four-week program will conclude with an in-class versatility contest that will test their abilities in the 100-meter and a 1-mile race. 11 – 14 years old Tuesdays| February 28 – March 28 (no programming the week of March 13) 6:00 – 6:50 pm $100 City Resident / $120 Nonresident Boot Camp With BradLooking for cardio and strength training exercises that utilize both weights and body weight? Join this bi-weekly boot camp to learn how to develop a more physically healthy body and the mental well-being that comes with exercise. Mondays & Thursdays | 5:30 – 6:20 pm 16 years and older $16 City Resident / $18 Nonresident, per class $55 City Resident / $65 Nonresident, per month (8 classes Cardio DrummingThis Cardio Drumming beginner’s class is a cardiovascular-based full-body workout that requires you to move and play drums along to music. Except it does not actually involve any drums! It will raise your heart rate and help you burn hundreds of calories, improve your coordination and ability to focus, and help strengthen many muscle groups, including your core. Must register, as space is limited. Mondays | 11:00 am - 12:00 pm or 6:00 – 7:00 pm $12 City Resident / $15 Nonresident, per 4-week session (Rate may increase or decrease for months with 5 or 3 weeks.) Power Yoga FlowUtilizing flexibility as a means to focus on linking poses together with continuous movement, Power Yoga Flow will bring awareness to one's body and breath, all while increasing cardiovascular health and muscular strength. Thursdays | 6:30 – 7:20 pm Monthly | $30 City Resident / $34 Nonresident Single Day | $12 City Resident / $14 Nonresident Xtreme Hip Hop With TarciaThis is a revamp of traditional step aerobics and includes routines set to hip-hop and R&B that will give you a great caloric burn. Please note, steps are not provided. Tuesdays and Thursdays | 6:00 – 7:00 pm $10 City Resident / $12 Nonresident, per class
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Railroad Museum Hosts Special Presentationsfor Winter Garden Heritage & Music Festival
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In conjunction with the Winter Garden Heritage & Music Festival, the Central Florida Railroad Museum will present Railroads of Winter Garden. The presentation will provide highlights of the history of the railroads that served Winter Garden. In addition, the museum will have extended operating hours (9:00 am - 5:00 pm) for festivalgoers to pop in to see the amazing historical artifacts and memorabilia. For more information, visit cfrhs.org/events. Saturday, February 11 Railroads of Winter Garden Presentation | 1:00 & 2:00 pm Extended Museum Hours | 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Central Florida Railroad Museum | 101 S. Boyd Street 407.656.0559 | cfrhs.org | Free Admission
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Lakeview and Drew High Schools: A History Exhibit at the Heritage Museum
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With artifacts and photographs dating back almost a century, the exhibit features the history of Lakeview and Drew High Schools. Established in 1927, Lakeview High School did not admit African American students until 1969 when desegregation changed the educational system in Orange County. Charles R. Drew High School rose on Winter Garden’s east side in the 1950s, ensuring that black students received an education without having to travel to Orlando. Be sure to stop in while attending the Winter Garden Heritage & Music Festival on Saturday, February 11, to see this exhibit that highlights the history of both schools from their inception to the day when all students in Winter Garden could attend classes together Now - February 28 Winter Garden Heritage Museum | Free Admission Tuesday – Saturday, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm (Feb. 11, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm) 1 North Main Street | wghf.org | 407.656.3244
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Winter Garden Art Association SOBO Art Gallery 127 S. Boyd Street 407.347.7996 wgart.org
Tuesday – Friday, 11:00 am – 5:00 pm Saturday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Free Admission EXHIBITION
Art in Motion
A variety of 2D and 3D artwork that celebrates movement and motion. From sports and exercise to concepts like energy, fluidity, and mechanics. This theme has a broad range! January 31 – March 25 Opening Reception February 2 , 5:30 - 8:00 pm | Public Invited CALL TO ARTISTSMarch 1 - 8 | Top Choice Annual Awards: Open to all types of artistic entries. We are looking for your best 2D & 3D Works. Awards: Best of Show, People’s Choice, Curator’s Choice, and Multiple Medium Category Winners. The exhibit will be highlighted during Arts in April and will be on display from April 1 to May 27. Send online submissions to wgart.org/artists/call-to-artists. Visit the “Call to Artists” website page regularly for themes of upcoming exhibitions, and submit online the FIRST through the EIGHTH of the month prior to an exhibition. WORKSHOPS FOR ADULTSClick here for more information or to register.
Technique Tuesday at 2PMA weekly “CREATE” event and learning opportunity at SOBO Gallery that allows people of ALL SKILL LEVELS in our community to learn, grow, and be inspired through the talents of other artists.
Click here for theme schedule.
Tuesdays | 2:00 – 4:00 pm | Studio Room Open to all | Free to members & first time visitors
Artist Night Studio: Life DrawingA model is available to draw every Wednesday night.
Wednesdays | 6:30 – 9:00 pm 18 years and older only | $10 member; $15 nonmember (collected at sign in)
Open Studio Saturdays for MembersSaturdays at SOBO is OPEN STUDIO day for MEMBERS ONLY. Bring your own supplies and enjoy creating in our studio room -- or on our outdoor front patio with the Farmers Market (open through 1:00 pm) just steps away. Must bring your own drop cloth (and shading if necessary) when painting outside. Click here to reserve your space.
Saturdays | 11:00 am – 3:00 pm Members Only | Free Expressive Floral & Still Life Painting in OilsInstructor: Stacy Barter Wish your paintings popped from across the room? In this three-day workshop, you will learn how to by painting still life and florals from life. Through demonstrations and discussion, followed by plenty of one-on-one instruction, you can learn to make your paintings sing with light, color, depth, and movement in this all from life class. April 15 – 17 | Fee required ART FOR KIDSClick here for details and registration. Wednesday Art Clubs 2nd grade - 5th grade | 2:45 - 3:45 pm Middle and High School | 4:00 - 5:00 pm $15 each session, includes all materials VOLUNTEERCurrently accepting applications for volunteer opportunities at SOBO for Saturdays. Sign-up at wgart.org/volunteer. LIVE MUSIC PROGRAM FOR ALZHEIMER’S & DEMENTIA ADULTS Musical Minds with Central Florida Community Arts
Free live music sing along program for adults with early stages of dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease and their care partners. Thursdays | 10:30 am – 11:30 am For more information and to RSVP, visit cfcarts.com/musicalminds or call 407.937.1800 ext. 719. JOINIndividual membership is $35 and a family membership is $50. Click here to become a member or donate to the arts.
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Utility Bill Assistance Available for Low Income Seniors
The City of Winter Garden offers a Utility Bill Assistance Program for Low Income Seniors. Qualified candidates can receive a reduction of up to $35 on their monthly utility bill. Program Qualifications:
- must be 65 years of age, or 62 years of age and receiving Social Security benefits
- a CITY resident continuously for past 5 years
- monthly household income not to exceed $1,566.80 (Single) or $2,190.43 (Married)
Documents needed with application:- copies of current identification
- 2023 Social Security Benefit Statement OR 2022 Federal Income Tax Return
- ALL other proof of income for entire household
Applications are available at Winter Garden City Hall Reception Desk, 300 W. Plant Street, or by contacting the City Clerk’s office, 407.656.4111 ext. 6327.
APPLICATION and PROOF OF INCOME DEADLINE is MAY 1, 2023.
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Battery Disposal Helpful Tips for National Battery Day Batteries are a useful energy source, but how to dispose of the various types of batteries is often puzzling. In observance of National Battery Day on February 18, take the time this month to properly dispose of your batteries by using the following helpful guidelines. Non-Recyclable Batteries Alkaline Batteries, sometimes called “flashlight batteries,” are usually single use batteries in 9 volt, C, D, AA and AAA. Mercury was eliminated in alkaline batteries in the 1990s. Under state law, these batteries can now be disposed of in the trash.
Lithium Batteries (non-rechargeable) - Battery label should distinguish between Lithium and Lithium Ion. Completely discharge the battery and securely tape the ends of each battery before disposing in the trash. Put multiple batteries in a plastic bag before placing in the trash. Recyclable Batteries (But NOT in the recycling cart)
Recyclable batteries should never be placed inside your recycling cart or trashcan. These batteries can cause fires in waste trucks and at the recycling facility or landfill. These batteries should be taken to a retailer or a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection location. Many stores that sell batteries, phones, or electronics will take used batteries back for recycling. Visit call2recycle.org to find a retailer near you. Orange County provides free drop-off Household Hazardous Waste collection sites. Visit ocfl.net/HHW for list of locations. Mark your calendar for a Free Orange County Household Waste & Electronic Waste Collection Event on Saturday, March 11, 8:00 am – 1:00 pm at Orange County Services Center, 475 Story Road, Ocoee. Lithium Ion Batteries (rechargeable) Uses: laptops, other small electronics Small Sealed Lead Acid Batteries (rechargeable) Uses: smaller equipment and backup power supplies Wet Cell Lead Acid Batteries – Uses: autos, boats, trucks. Retailers are required to take back for recycling as trade-ins for new batteries. Portable Power Tool Batteries – Uses: any brand of portable, cordless power tool Old-Style Cell Phone Batteries – Cell phones should also be recycled.
Button Batteries – Uses: hearing aids, watches, calculators
Nickel-Cadmium Batteries – Uses: portable electronics and toys
Nickel Metal Hydride Batteries – Uses: consumer electronics
Battery Pack – These batteries are packaged together with one single connector. Uses: phones, small equipment For more information, call 407-656-4111 ext. 5193.
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City is Hiring
The City currently has great career opportunities available for those with EXPERIENCE and for TRAINEES. The City offers competitive wages and full-time employees are eligible for generous benefits, pension, & tuition reimbursement plan. Click here to review all available positions and for additional information on position responsibilities and minimum qualifications. Several examples of our career opportunities include: PARKS:- Parks Workers(Full-Time): Needed to perform grounds keeping and landscape maintenance of City parks, grounds, and facilities. Responsibilities include use of equipment to install, care for, and maintain turf, shrubs, trees, ground cover, plant containers, and seasonal plantings. Performs irrigation maintenance as needed. Assists with preparation, set-up and removal of decorations for special events, including holiday events. Performs custodial services at parks and other City owned facilities and buildings. Must have experience with the use of landscape equipment and performing manual labor.
PUBLIC SERVICES:- Solid Waste Drivers(Full-time): Requires Florida CDL Class B to pick up and haul garbage and refuse, experienced in using some/all of the following: Commercial Front End Loader, Rear End Loader, ASL, Boom Truck, Container Delivery Truck, & Roll off Truck. Scheduling flexibility is essential, as routes may require varying schedules including early morning, weekend, etc.
- Utilities Collection Field Technicians & Distribution Field Technicians(Full-time): Experienced or Trainees to perform physically demanding work (have/obtain a Florida CDL Class B) while using light and/or heavy equipment. Locates water mains and valves and installs, relocates, replaces, repairs & maintains gravity sewer lines, force mains, manholes, service connections, water mains, fire hydrants, gate valves, etc. related to water and wastewater systems. Must be available and able to answer emergency or service calls after normal working hours.
PUBLIC SAFETY:- 911 Dispatchers(Full-time): Experienced or Trainees to coordinate incoming calls for service with Police resources, assess/prioritize calls, dispatch Officers, maintain/monitor Officer responses, conduct/enter inquiries, relay information, and help with lifesaving instructions. Full-time new hires are eligible for a $2,000.00 sign-on bonus!!
- Communications Manager(Full-time): Manages a specialized team of Communications Supervisors and Public Safety Telecommunicators/911 Dispatchers to provide effective coordination between requests from the public for Police Services and dispatching services to appropriately respond based on the situation. Must be certified as a Public Safety Telecommunicator, hold an Associate’s degree and have a minimum of eight years of full-time experience as a Dispatcher/Telecommunicator with a minimum of five years as a supervisor or manager. Skill in the use of Computer Aided Dispatch software required. Must be able to work flexible hours, including weekends, holidays, and various shifts.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT:- Urban Designer (Full-time): Develops and implements the overall urban design strategy for the City, as well as conducting planning and zoning work in the Community Development Department. Requires Bachelor’s degree in architecture, urban planning, public administration or related field and a minimum of four years of experience in planning and design. The ideal candidate will be a team player, takes initiative, and excels at giving presentations and communicating with internal and external customers. Must be able to work evenings as needed for meetings.
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Mobile Citizen App
With the City’s Mobile Citizen App, you have a sure and convenient means to report and route a concern for a prompt response.
The App allows you to ask a question if you’re planning to modify your property or submit a work request for service issues encountered at your home, in your neighborhood, or throughout our community. It really is an enhanced way to engage and be involved in City affairs helping to preserve the appealing qualities that make Winter Garden a desirable community.
Scan the QR code to download the free Mobile Citizen app from Apple Store or Google Play to your personal device.
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Fire Hydrant Flow Testing Will End Mid-Month
The Winter Garden Fire Rescue Department will continue conducting fire hydrant flow testing through mid-February. Residents may notice a brief reduction in water pressure and some discoloration of the drinking water. Discolored water poses no threat to the public’s health. If you experience continued loss of water pressure or water discoloration, please contact the Public Services Department at 407.656.2256
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Participate in Your City
There are many different ways you can participate in your City government. Here are some options for you to consider: VOLUNTEER The City of Winter Garden has a number of advisory boards and committees that welcome your participation. Most have monthly meetings and require only a few hours of volunteer time per month. For those interested in serving, please complete the Board Interest Form.
To find out more, contact the City Clerk’s office at 407.656.4111, ext. 2297, or stop by City Hall at 300 W. Plant Street. JOIN A CLASS OR LEAGUE Sign up for one of the many classes or leagues offered by the City of Winter Garden Parks and Recreation Department. ATTEND A MEETING Open to the public, attend a City meeting to find out firsthand what is happening in your community.
FEBUARY MEETING SCHEDULE Please see this month’s meeting schedule below, subject to change. All meetings are held in the Commission Chambers at City Hall, 300 W. Plant Street. Architecture Review and Historic Preservation Board Meeting Tuesday, February 21, 6:30 pm City Commission Meeting Thursday, February 9, 6:30 pm Thursday, February 23, 6:30 pm Code Enforcement Board Meeting Tuesday, February 7, 6:15 pm
Community Redevelopment Agency Advisory Board Tuesday, February 14, 5:30 pm
Development Review Committee Meeting Wednesday, February 1, 9:30 am Wednesday, February 15, 9:30 am Planning & Zoning Board Meeting Monday, February 6, 6:30 pm
Visit the City of Winter Garden calendar for meeting updates, as well as to find out about additional meetings and events.
*City Commission Meeting recordings are available the next business day following the meeting, Click here to listen.
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City Government Serving You
The district boundaries have been redrawn following the results of the 2020 U.S. Census. The new district boundaries became effective on December 14, 2022. Click on district links below to view new maps and to find your respective commissioner. MAYOR/COMMISSIONER
COMMISSIONERS
CITY MANAGER
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