 March 2023
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SHOP, DINE & STROLL with Live MusicSaturday, March 25
Shop the outdoor sidewalk sale, dine al fresco, and stroll through the flower-blossoming streets surrounded by historic charm. A live music performance by the Breezeway Trio, 4:00 – 7:00 pm, will top of the perfect springtime day. Come out to support your local businesses to commemorate National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day! Saturday, March 25 | Historic Downtown
All Day | Live Music, 4:00 – 7:00 pm, Centennial Plaza
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Evening at the PopsSaturday, March 25
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Bring a blanket or chair and enjoy an outdoor concert performed by the Space Coast Symphony Orchestra on Saturday, March 25, at the shore of Lake Apopka. An Instrument Petting Zoo for children will precede the performance at 4:30 pm. Presented by Rotary Club of Winter Garden; co-sponsor City of Winter Garden. General Admission: $10 per person
Children 8 and under: Free
VIP: $75 per person (includes reserved seating, dinner, drinks, and live entertainment by HAPCO Music Foundation at Tanner Hall) Click here to purchase tickets. Saturday, March 25
Instrument Petting Zoo, 4:30 pm
Concert 6:00 pm
(Rain date: March 26)
Newton Park, 31 W. Garden Avenue
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FL Licensing on Wheels (FLOW) Mobile Unit Comes to Winter Garden on Thursday, March 30
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The FLOW Bus will come to Jessie Brock Community Center on Thursday, March 30, 10:00 am–2:00 pm, to bring DMV services directly to the customer. FLOW mobiles offer a number of license, ID, & vehicle registration services (required documentation/fees apply). Please note that the FLOW Mobile Bus accepts customers on a first-come, first-service basis and is typically able to serve 20-50 customers during their visit. Click here for list of documents required to bring with you. Click here for event flyer. Thursday, March 30 | 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard Street
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Farmers Market Hosts Farm DayVisit with goats, bunnies, a pig, chicken, and other animals at Farm Day at the Market. The free petting zoo will be a fun opportunity for all ages to see farm animals up close and learn about their important contribution on a farm. There will also be free kids craft-making at the KidZone tent at the Parking Garage Plaza. Saturday, March 18 | 8:00 am – 1:00 pm
Petting Zoo, 9:00 am – 12:00 | Free
Downtown Pavilion, 104 S. Lakeview Avenue
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City of Winter Garden Hiring Event for 911 DispatchersMarch 2
The City of Winter Garden is hosting a 911 Dispatchers Hiring Event on Thursday, March 2, at City Hall. Early registration begins at 8:30 am and an information session will be held 9:00-9:30 am. Onsite interviews available for those attending information session. Sign-on bonuses of $2,000-$5,000 for full-time new hires and generous benefits. Attendees are encouraged to apply online prior to the event. Click here for event flyer and details. Wednesday, March 2
Registration: 8:30 am
Information Session: 9:00 – 9:30 am
Winter Garden City Hall, 300 W. Plant Street
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Spring break is almost here so check out these fun local options.
Winter Garden Parks & Recreation Spring Break Camp
The 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 Camp
SOBO 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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Golf Cart & Bicycle Registration Day -- March 27The Winter Garden Police Department offers designated days throughout the year for residents to register golf carts and/or bicycles. It is important to have this information on file in case your golf cart or bicycle is stolen. Bring golf cart/bicycle and proper form of identification for verification. Questions, contact Officer Gail Michaud at 407.656.3636 ext. 5416. Monday, March 27 | 2:30-4:30 pm | Free
Winter Garden Police Department (back parking lot off Henderson Street), 251 W. Plant Street
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Free Household Hazardous Waste & Electronic Waste Collection EventOrange County will host a collection event on March 11 for Winter Garden/Orange County residents. This event allows residents to dispose of Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) and Electronics Waste (E-Waste) safely and at no charge. Saturday, March 11 | 8:00 am – 1:00 pm | FREE
Orange County Services Center, 475 Story Road, Ocoee What to Bring |
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What NOT to Bring- Household electrical items such as toasters and irons.
- Radioactive materials
- Ammunition
- Explosives & Fireworks
- Smoke Detectors
- Medicines
- Biomedical Waste
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New City Hall Exhibit Celebrates Local WomenHosted by the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation, a new exhibit premieres this month at City Hall that celebrates the women of Winter Garden and West Orange County who made their mark in history — from the pioneers that helped cultivate the land to the women business leaders, politicians, and community leaders of today. As the City celebrates its 120th Anniversary, be sure to stop in to learn about the women that helped shape our community into what it is today. Celebrating the Women of Winter Garden and West Orange County
March 1 – 31 | Monday – Friday, 7:30 am – 5:30 pm | Free
Art in Public Places Gallery at City Hall, 300 W. Plant Street
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Live Music Every FridayCatch live music every Friday night, 7:00-9:00 pm, in the center of Downtown at Centennial Plaza.
This month’s Fridays on the Plaza musical line-up: - March 3 - Southbound Duo (Bluegrass, Folk)
- March 10 - Grimes Alley (Country, Blues)
- March 17 - Salted Vine (Pop & Rock, 60s to today)
- March 24 - Orlando Gentleman of Jazz (Jazz)
- March 31 - Rowdy Jameson Band (Country)
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SPRING into 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. AARP TAX – AIDEAARP is offering free tax help to low- to moderate income taxpayers, especially those 60 and older, at the Jessie Brock Community Center. Please book your appointment at tinyurl.com/JBrockWG. Wednesdays | Now – April 12
9:00 am – 12:00 pm | Free CREATIVE MOVEMENTThis unique program introduces basic dance ballet techniques and movement through dance, games, and song. Class focus is on gross motor skills, left/ right, body awareness, ballet positions, and beginner ballet technique and language. Advance registration required. Wednesdays | March 22 – April 19 or April 26 – May 24 | 9:30 – 10:15 am
Saturdays | March 25 – April 29 (no class April 8) | 10:15 – 11:00 am
2 – 4 years
$70 City Resident / $75 Nonresident, per 5-week session INTRO TO BALLETThis program is designed to teach children, ages 5 – 8, basic ballet positions and techniques as well as proper terminology. Children will work with the barre while developing their learned positions and techniques. Wednesdays | March 22 – May 24
10:30 – 11:30 am
5 – 8 years
$150 City Resident / $175 Nonresident, per 10-week session 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. Tuesdays | February 28 – March 28 (no programming the week of March 13)
6:00 – 6:50 pm
11 – 14 years old
$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) 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 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 cardio vascular health and muscular strength. Thursdays | 6:30 – 7:20 pm
$30 City Resident / $34 Nonresident, per month
$12 City Resident / $14 Nonresident, per class
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Batter, Batter Swing for WGPAL
Softball TournamentGather your team and Batter, Batter Swing to support the Winter Garden Police Athletic League (WGPAL). This one-pitch coed softball tournament will be a fun time while raising funds to support WGPAL programs that benefit local youth. Players must be at least 18 years old to participate. Saturday, April 22
Veteran’s Park, 420 S. Park Avenue
Team Entry Fee | $300 Registration ends on Friday, April 7.
Details and registration information at wgpal.org. Questions, call 407.656.5416.
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Utility Bill Assistance Available
for Low Income SeniorsThe 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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Biannual Newsletter is on its Way
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Keep an eye out for the Spring/Summer 2023 issue of Winter Garden Bulletin – Your Official City News Source arriving in your mailbox. This colorful, 36-page biannual publication is chock-full of information about upcoming events, classes, programs, and City news. The newsletter serves as a handy guide to help plan your spring and summer. Extra copies are available at City Hall and Jessie Brock Community Center. Click here to view the digital version of the newsletter.
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Reminder from Winter GardenFire Rescue- As daylight saving time begins on Sunday, March 12, remember to change your clocks AND change your smoke alarm batteries!
- Smoke Alarms save lives (photoelectric alarms are recommended).
- To learn about our Smoke Alarm Program or for fire safety information, call 407.877.5175.
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Your Watering Days Change WithDaylight Saving TimeDaylight Saving Time 2023 (March 12 - November 5) Water only when needed and not between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm. |
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City is Hiring:Sr. Systems Administrator, Urban Designer, 911 Dispatchers, Parks Workers, Drivers, & Utilities Positions – TRAINEES & EXPERIENCED
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: INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY: - Senior Systems Administrator(Full-Time): Requires technical expertise to provide daily oversight to the City’s IT systems. Position requires on-call availability for after-hours emergencies and special projects. The ideal candidate will have a customer service excellence philosophy. A Bachelor’s degree in Information Systems, Computer Science or related field and/or 6 years of progressive experience in a Systems Administrator position required. The equivalent combination of education, training, and /or experience may also be considered. Requires experience with complex hybrid server environments. Must have knowledge of and hands on experience with Microsoft Office 365, Windows Servers, Active Directory, VMWare, WSUS, DFS, as well as various SAN technologies/providers and Microsoft Exchange online. Experience with configuring Cisco routers, switches, WAP’s, VLAN’s, VPN’s and firewalls required. Must be able to pass a security clearance.
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.
- SIGN-ON BONUS! There is a $2,000 sign-on bonus for entry level candidates and up to $5,000 for experienced Dispatchers.
- JOB FAIR FOR 911 DISPATCHERS Will be held on Thursday, March 2nd, at 9:00 am at Winter Garden City Hall. The Hiring Manager and Human Resources will be conducting interviews after the 30-minute informational session ends. Typing assessments will be made available for attendees.
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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New Heritage Museum Exhibit Pays Tribute to West Orange County’s World War II Contributions
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A new exhibit premieres this month at the Winter Garden Heritage Museum that features objects, archived letters, and photographs attesting to the World War II contributions of the citizens of West Orange County. World War II, which began with the Nazi invasion of Poland in September 1939, was fought thousands of miles from American shores. On December 7, 1941, the attack on our base at Pearl Harbor brought our country into what became a global conflict. Winter Garden and West Orange County contributed to the war effort by supplying military personnel and healthful citrus products. Citizens volunteering on the home front trained as plane spotters for the Ground Observer Corps and recycled metal objects for use by the armed forces. The exhibit showcases the local efforts to an international war. March 1 - May 31
Winter Garden Heritage Museum
1 N. Main Street | wghf.org | 407.656.3244
Tuesday - Saturday | 11:00 am – 3:00 pm | Free Admission
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Garden Theatre
160 W. Plant Street407.877.4736
gardentheatre.org The historic Garden Theatre provides entertainment and educational offerings for all ages.
Visit gardentheatre.org for a current list of upcoming live theatre shows, movies, and performances. LIVE THEATRE
Rock of AgesPresented by Victory Productions and Garden Theatre
Now – March 12 | Matinee and Evening Performances
Tickets $35-$75 | Discounts are available for groups for 10 or more, military, first responders, teachers, seniors, and students.
Click here to purchase tickets. Book by Chris D’Arienzo
Arrangements and Orchestrations by Ethan Popp Rock of Ages is a big, energetic tribute to the classic rock of the ‘80s. This five-time Tony Award-nominated musical features all of your favorite rock anthems and power ballads including: “We’re Not Going to Take It,” “Waiting for a Girl Like You,” “The Final Countdown,” “Every Rose Has Its Thorn,” and “Don’t Stop Believin’.”
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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!
Now – March 25
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. Call to High School Artists for High School Top Choice Annual Awards Show ¦ Deadline: Now - March 8 Open to all types of artistic entries. We are seeking your best 2D & 3D Works. Awards: Best of Show, People's Choice, Curator's Choice, and Multiple Medium Category Winners. For details and to submit artwork (max. two submissions), click here. WORKSHOPS FOR ADULTSClick here for more information or to register. 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 Technique Tuesday at 2PM
A 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 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 VOLUNTEER
Currently accepting applications for volunteer opportunities at SOBO for Saturdays. Sign-up at wgart.org/volunteer. JOIN
Individual membership is $35 and a family membership is $50. Click here to become a member or donate to the arts.
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Mark Your Calendar for City-Hosted Spring Events |
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Participate in Your CityThere 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.
MARCH 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, March 21, 6:30 pm City Commission Meeting*
Thursday, March 9, 6:30 pm
Thursday, March 23, 6:30 pm
Code Enforcement Board Meeting
Tuesday, March 7, 6:15 pm
Community Redevelopment Agency Advisory Board
Tuesday, March 14, 5:30 pm
Development Review Committee Meeting
Wednesday, March 1, 9:30 am - CANCELLED
Wednesday, March 15, 9:30 am
Wednesday, March 29, 9:30 am
Planning & Zoning Board Meeting
Monday, March 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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2023 MunicipalGeneral Election UpdateDue to no opposition, Mayor John Rees – District 5 (At-Large) and District 1 Commissioner Lisa L. Bennett will resume their elected positions (effective March 23, 2023) for four years. Therefore, a Municipal General Election will not be held in March. Click here to view list of commissioners and the municipal district maps.
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City Government Serving You MAYOR/COMMISSIONER
COMMISSIONERS
CITY MANAGER
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