 December 2022
|
|
|
|
You are receiving E-News as a courtesy from the City.
Please remember to set your spam blocker to allow mail from listserv@civicplus.com.
If you decide you do not want to continue receiving the E-News, just scroll to the bottom and click on unsubscribe to stop receiving this communication.
|
|
|
|
Holiday Office Closure &
Solid Waste Collection Services ScheduleCHRISTMAS (Observed)- All City Government Offices will be closed on Monday, December 26.
- There will be Regular Solid Waste Collection Services on Monday, December 26.
NEW YEAR’S DAY (Observed)- All City Government Offices will be closed on Monday, January 2.
- There will be Regular Solid Waste Collection Services on Monday, January 2.
Click here for a yearly Solid Waste Holiday Collection Schedule. If you have any questions, please call 407.656.2256. |
|
|
|
|
|
Santa Claus is Coming to TownWINTER GARDEN FIRE RESCUE ANNUAL SANTA RUN
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Winter Garden Fire Rescue annual “SANTA RUN” brings Santa and his sleigh full of elves (firefighters, police, City staff) through neighborhoods! This
fast-moving parade spreads holiday music, treats, and good cheer along the way to residents within City limits.
Santa will be in the following areas from 5:45 - 9:00 pm on the following dates:
An alternate date is scheduled for December 19 if weather interrupts one of Santa’s visits. Click on links above for Santa’s nightly route maps for the estimated time of Santa’s arrival and/or to find a nearby viewing location. Due to significant community growth, not all neighborhoods/streets can be accommodated. Due to safety concerns, please refrain from parking on the street during your neighborhood’s Santa Run. Street parking, especially parking on both sides of street, may prohibit the parade from going down a street. |
|
|
|
|
|
Enter Your Residence in the
DE-LIGHT-FUL DECORATIONS CONTESTIt is time to drag out the lights, display the glowing Santa, and enter your home to win the annual De-Light-Ful Decorations Contest. Hosted by the City of Winter Garden, first and second place winners are awarded in each of three categories in addition to one overall winner. Festive presentations of outdoor decorations could win up to $100!
Judging takes place on Tuesday, December 13, and Wednesday, December 14, starting at 5:30 pm. The contest is free to enter, and all homes must be within City limits.
Register here or by contacting the Parks & Recreation Department at 407.656.4155. Entry form must be submitted no later than December 9.
|
|
|
|
Downtown Winter Garden is merry all month long!
To download a Tis the Season event flyer, click here |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Light Up Winter Garden
Join us at Light Up Winter Garden to welcome the holiday season with this annual event to kick off our 38 days of Tis the Season. The lighting will take place at 6:15 pm at City Hall, followed by various activities for all to enjoy throughout downtown, including sledding and snow hills at the Wonderland on Main Street and on South Lakeview Avenue.
Be sure to check out all the fun holiday entertainment throughout downtown including on the steps of the First Baptist Church of Winter Garden, at the Parking Garage Plaza, on South Main Street, etc. Santa will be there too!
Friday, December 2
6:00 – 9:00 pm (Lighting, 6:15 pm)
300 W. Plant Street/Downtown Winter Garden
Sponsored by Duke Energy, the West Orange Ministerial Association, and the City of Winter Garden.
|
|
|
|
Winter Garden Christmas Parade
Bring a lawn chair or blanket and head to your favorite viewing spot for this annual event. The Winter Garden Christmas Parade is a long-standing Winter Garden holiday tradition that delights spectators and brings in holiday cheer! The parade kicks off on Dillard Street and proceeds down West Plant Street. Don't forget to look for the Big Guy himself at the end of the parade!
|
|
|
|
|
|
Saturday, December 3
Starts at 10:00 am
Downtown Winter Garden
|
|
|
|
|
|
Christmas Market on Plant Street
Downtown Winter Garden turns into a PEDESTRIAN-ONLY Christmas Market from 1:00 – 5:00 pm on Saturday, December 3. It is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the sights and sounds of the season and to shop without cars or traffic. Leisurely stroll the outdoor marketplace along the festive-adorned streets.
Saturday, December 3, 1:00 – 5:00 pm
|
|
|
|
Winter Garden
Christmas Golf Cart ParadeThe 10th Annual Winter Garden Christmas Golf Cart Parade is an amazing sight of elaborately decorated golf carts making their way through historic downtown to spread holiday cheer. Bring a chair or blanket, grab a viewing spot along West Plant Street, and be ready to be amazed. Following the Parade, the golf cart entries will park throughout downtown for bystanders to get a closer look at the holiday-themed masterpieces.
For those interested in participating in the parade, click here for event details and to register.
The West Orange Junior Service League and the City of Winter Garden host the event.
Saturday, December 3, Kicks off at 6:00 pm
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
A Merry Winter Garden Light Show
This animated holiday light show has become an annual tradition to so many households. Do not miss this spectacular show synchronized to music projected onto the front façade of Winter Garden City Hall.
December 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 23, 6:00 – 9:00 pm
300 W. Plant St., Downtown Winter Garden
|
|
|
|
|
|
Holiday Boutique Stroll
Holiday shopping at its finest with a stroll of the boutiques of Downtown Winter Garden to find unique presents while enjoying complimentary light refreshments, in-store raffles, outdoor/indoor specials and promotions, seasonal merchandise, and more! Look for the Balloons at the Participating Boutiques and make a purchase to enter the Grand Prize Raffle to win gift basket worth over $400!
Thursday, December 8
5:00 – 8:00 pm
Downtown Winter Garden
|
|
|
|
A Very Merry Farmers Market
|
|
|
|
|
|
Visit the festive Winter Garden Farmers Market every Saturday in December for unique gifts, holiday décor, as well as meats, seafood, dips, sauces, appetizers, breads, and desserts to make your holiday gatherings special. Visit with SANTA at the market on December 10 and 17. Saturdays: December 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 8:00 am – 1:00 pm Santa Visit: December 10 & 17, 9:00 am -12:00 pmDowntown Pavilion, 104 S. Lakeview Avenue |
|
|
|
|
|
Holiday Music at
Fridays on the Plaza
The weekly Fridays on the Plaza music series will feature special holiday performances this month:
- December 2- Light Up Winter Garden
- December 9- Safia Valines Quartet (Christmas, Holidays)
- December 16- L & G Live (Soft Rock, Hits, Holidays)
- December 23- Red Mint (Folk, Pop, Holidays)
- December 30- Ranahan (Country, Holidays)
7:00-9:00 pm Centennial Plaza in the center of Downtown |
|
|
|
Horse Drawn Holiday Carriage Tours
|
|
|
|
|
|
SOUL Haven Ranch is offering 20-minute horse drawn carriage tour experiences through festive downtown Winter Garden on select nights this month.
December 4-7, 11-14, 18-21, 26-28
5:30 – 9:30 pm
Downtown Pavilion, 104 S. Lakeview Avenue
Fee and reservations required. Click here to reserve your spot.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Holiday Gifts for Kids Program RegistrationPresented by Winter Garden Police Athletic League, Inc. (WGPAL)
The Winter Garden Police Athletic League, Inc. (WGPAL) annually conducts a Holiday Gifts for Kids program to provide presents to Winter Garden youth (newborn – 12 years old) in need.
Registration closes Monday, December 5.
To register, click here for application and return it to one of the following locations or hand it to a police officer on patrol.
Winter Garden Police Department – 251 W. Plant Street
City Hall – 300 W. Plant Street
Maxey Center – 830 Klondike Street
Mildred Dixon Activity Center – 303 S.W. Crown Pointe Road
Jessie Brock Community Center – 310 N. Dillard Street
When registering, ALL of the following documents are required and must be verified:
- Birth certificate or court/custody paperwork (only parent or legal guardian can register a child)
- Current water or utility bill for the Winter Garden address they reside
- Proof of government assistance (WIC, food stamps, etc.)
- Some type of identification (driver’s license, ID card, passport, etc.)
- Child must be age 12 or younger
Note: You are not registered for the program until you have been contacted by the Community Liaison Unit and given a HGFK ticket with a scheduled pick-up date and time.
How to Donate to Holiday Gifts for Kids ProgramPlease consider donating new toys, games, sporting equipment, gift cards, etc. to help children right in your own community. Donation drop off is through December 9 at the Winter Garden Police Department, 251 W. Plant Street. Donations are tax deductible. For questions about the Holiday Gifts for Kids program, please call 407.656.3636 ext. 5416. Click here for donation gift ideas. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Holiday Camp is a fun way for school-aged children to spend their days off from school. Campers will enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, arts and crafts, sports, and more with friends and a qualified, well trained Winter Garden Parks and Recreation staff. Campers must bring a packed lunch, snacks, and a water bottle to camp every day.
Advance registration required. Questions, call 407.656.4155.
December 19 – 23, 27 – 30, January 3
7:00 am – 6:00 pm
Grades | Kindergarten – 8th grade
Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard Street
$22 City Resident / $27 Nonresident, per day
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recycle your Natural
Christmas TreeFollow these steps to get your natural Christmas Tree recycled: - Remove all ornaments, lights, and garland.
- Remove tree from the stand.
- Place the tree at the curb on your yard waste collection day.
The tree will be taken to a yard waste facility where it will be transformed into mulch and used in landscapes in our area.
An artificial tree cannot be recycled. Consider donating it or place it out on your bulk collection day for disposal.
For recycling questions, call 407.877.5193.
|
|
|
|
Fire Hydrant Flow Testing
Begins in DecemberThe Winter Garden Fire Rescue Department will begin fire hydrant flow testing the first week of December and will continue 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.
|
|
|
|
|
WINTER FUN with
PARKS & RECREATION!
|
|
|
|
|
|
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.
ATHLETIC PROGRAMSRegistrations may close early due to limited availability.
Youth Soccer - Spring LeagueCheer your child on while they have a great time with friends! This recreational program emphasizes an environment that is fun for all ages. We focus on each child through positive coaching, teamwork, sportsmanship, skill development, and more! Fee includes an eight-week season, an end of season award, and a team jersey and socks. We want you! Coaches pay only $10 for one child’s registration. Paid officials are also needed.City Resident Registration | December 5 – January 6 Nonresident Registration | December 19 – January 6 Registration may close early due to limited availability in each age division. Practices begin the week of January 30 Games begin February 18 3 – 13 years old (age as of September 1, 2022) $100 City Resident / $120 Nonresident Braddock Park, 13460 Lake Butler Boulevard HEALTH & WELLNESS CLASSESBoot 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 and Thursdays | 5:30 – 6:20 pm 16 years and older $16 City Residents / $18 Nonresidents, per class $55 City Residents / $65 Nonresidents, per month (8 classes)
Power Yoga Flow
Utilizing 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
Monthly | $30 Residents / $34 Nonresidents
Single Day | $12 Resident / $14 Nonresident
ACTIVE 50+
Active 50+ Trip to Stetson Mansion – Deland, FLWant to get into the Holiday Spirit? Come tour the Stetson Mansion, built in 1886, decorated for Christmas and featuring holiday music from the baby grand player piano. The two-floor guided tour with steps includes the original schoolhouse. Dutch treat lunch. Thursday, December 15 | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm $49 City Resident / $53 Nonresident Active 50+ Trip to Ponce Inlet Lighthouse & Museum – Ponce Inlet, FLThe Ponce de Leon Inlet Light Station is a National Historic Landmark and home to one of the finest lighthouse museums in the world. As you step inside the historic white picket fence, you are literally stepping back in time. All the original structures are there for you to explore, and yes – you can climb the 203 steps to the top of the lighthouse tower! Dutch treat lunch. Tuesday, January 17 | 8:30 am – 4:30 pm $19 City Resident / $23 Nonresident |
|
|
|
|
|
Holidays In Winter Garden Exhibit
at City HallCity Hall hosts this joyful exhibit of local artists’ works depicting November and December holidays in Winter Garden. Pop inside City Hall when visiting the downtown winter wonderland to see this festive exhibit provided by community artists.
Now – December 30
Monday – Friday | 7:30 am – 5:30 pm
Art in Public Places Gallery in City Hall, 300 W. Plant Street
|
|
|
|
Heritage Museum
Premieres Exhibit of
Local Schools’ History
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.
The exhibit features the history of both schools from their inception to the day when all students in Winter Garden could attend classes together.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lakeview and Drew High Schools: A History December 1, 2022 - February 28, 2023
Winter Garden Heritage Museum | 1 North Main Street | wghf.org | 407.656.3244
Tuesday - Saturday | 11:00 am – 3:00 pm | Free Admission
|
|
|
|
|
|
Railroad Museum Hosts Presentation
by a Disney LegendDisney Legend Tom Nabbe, hired by Walt himself in 1955, will share highlights from his career, including some hair-raising assignments on the Monorail in preparation for Walt Disney World’s opening in 1971, and the honor of receiving the company’s highest recognition as a Disney Legend.
Saturday, December 17 | 1:00 pm | Free | Registration required, cfrhs.org/events
Central Florida Railroad Museum | 101 S. Boyd Street | 407.656.0559
|
|
|
|
Winter Garden Art Association
SOBO Art Gallery127 S. Boyd Street407.347.7996
wgart.org
Tuesday – Friday, 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Saturday, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Free Admission
EXHIBITIONArtisans AppealA vast selection of 2D and 3D works that depict both the FUN and FUNCTIONAL dimensions of art. It is a fun holiday show!
Now – January 28
Opening Reception | December 1, 5:30 – 8:00 pm
CALL TO ARTISTSJanuary 1 - 8 | Art in Motion Call to Artists: Submit 2D & 3D artwork that celebrates movement and motion. From sports and exercise to concepts like energy, fluidity, and mechanics.
Visit the “Call or 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 Tuesdays 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 Drawing
A 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/Front Patio Live for Members
Saturdays 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 – 4:00 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.
JOINIndividual membership is $35 and a family membership is $50. Click here to become a member or donate to the arts. .
|
|
|
|
Free Grease Monster Fighting Kit Helps Avoid Costly RepairsAs you prepare holiday meals this season, do not make the mistake of pouring cooking oils and grease down the kitchen sink or flushing down the toilet. When grease attacks the sewers, it can harden and build up and cause blockages in your public sewer system and even to your home plumbing, costing thousands of dollars.
Ready to protect your pipes and the City against grease monsters?
Follow these steps and “Put a Lid On It:” - Cool. Allow your cooking grease to cool completely.
- Put a lid on it. Pour cooled grease into a can, jug, or jar. (Lid for can provided in free kit.)
- Store. Place container into a plastic bag and seal the bag.
- Dispose of the bagged container in your regular trash bin when container is full.
Pick up a Free Grease Monster Fighting Kit at City Hall reception desk during operating hours. For more information, call 407.877.5193.
|
|
|
|
|
|
City of Winter Garden Staff Participate in
Thanksgiving Food Basket DriveCity of Winter Garden staff joined forces with employees of Orlando Health to collect and donate more than 100 Thanksgiving Food Baskets that directly benefit residents of Winter Garden. The staff of the various City’s departments teamed together to provide all the essential Thanksgiving meal supplies for families in need.
The annual event is a partnership with the Christian Service Center which serves the West Orange community.
|
|
|
|
|
|
City is Hiring:
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:
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 sign-on bonus!!
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.
|
|
|
|
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.
|
|
|
|
|
|
City Commission
2023 ElectionThe 2023 City election is scheduled for Tuesday, March 14, 2023. The qualifying period begins 12:00 Noon on Tuesday, January 3, 2023 and ends 12:00 Noon on Tuesday, January 10, 2023. Election for seats include Commissioner District 1 and 5 (Mayor/ Commissioner – At Large); term of office is four (4) years and is nonpartisan. Those interested in running for a municipal office may contact the City Clerk’s office at City Hall, 300 West Plant Street. For additional information, or to set an appointment, please contact City Clerk Angee Grimmage at (407) 656-4111 ext. 2297 or CityClerk@cwgdn.com.
(Run-off if necessary, April 11, 2023)
For information regarding voter registration, early voting or vote-by-mail (absentee) voting, please contact the Orange County Supervisor of Elections at 407.836.2070.
. |
|
|
|
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.
DECEMBER MEETING SCHEDULE
The City has resumed in-person meetings. All meetings are held in the Commission Chambers at City Hall, 300 W. Plant Street.
Architecture Review and Historic Preservation Board Meeting
Tuesday, December 20, 6:30 pm
City Commission Meeting
Thursday, December 8, 6:30 pm
Code Enforcement Board Meeting
Tuesday, December 6, 6:15 pm
Development Review Committee Meeting
Wednesday, December 7, 9:30 am
Wednesday, December 21, 9:30 am
Planning & Zoning Board Meeting
Monday, December 5, 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.
|
|
|
|
City Government Serving You
MAYOR/COMMISSIONER
COMMISSIONERS
CITY MANAGER
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Share on Facebook
Share on Twitter
Share via Email
