West Orange Times & Observer | Orange Observer

Orange Observer | West Orange Times & Observer

Liz Ramos
January 8, 2026

FORECAST 2026: Winter Garden Heritage Foundation works to make history fun

Foundation Executive Director Kristi Karst Gomen is taking the momentum of the successes in 2025 and using them to further expand offerings to bring the community together through the foundation.

West Orange Times & Observer
Neighborhood

Leticia Silva
January 7, 2026

FORECAST 2026: Property tax reforms and its possible impacts

The state has been working on multiple proposals regarding property tax relief. These proposals will be voted on during November’s general election as they are approved by the state Legislature.

West Orange Times & Observer
News

Leticia Silva
January 7, 2026

Ocoee caregiver arrested for attempted murder

Journey Mikah Powell, 22, was arrested Saturday, Jan. 3, after Ocoee police received a call regarding a shooting at 2291 Laurel Blossom Circle, Ocoee.

West Orange Times & Observer
News

Liz Ramos
January 7, 2026

FORECAST 2026: Service is Jerry Demings' purpose

Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings has spent more than 40 years of his life serving the community, his faith paving every step of the way.

West Orange Times & Observer
News

Liz Ramos
January 7, 2026

FORECAST 2026: Eight Waves brings hope, instills confidence in West Orange student

Participation in the nonprofit's mentoring program helped KK Charles throughout high school and beyond.

West Orange Times & Observer
Neighborhood

Michael Eng
January 7, 2026

FORECAST 2026: Spiritual awakening

According to a September 2025 study, adults in the Gen Z population are attending church more regularly than Millennials, Gen Xers and Boomers.

West Orange Times & Observer
News

Michael Eng
January 7, 2026

FORECAST 2026: The fight for free thought

How Horizon High School teacher William Loggans became the poster child for independent thought in public education.

West Orange Times & Observer
News

Michael Eng
January 7, 2026

Windsor Landing home tops Ocoee home sales from Dec. 29, 2025, to Jan. 4

The home at 3213 Kentshire Blvd., Ocoee, sold Dec. 29, for $706,000.

West Orange Times & Observer
Real Estate

Megan Bruinsma
January 6, 2026

FORECAST 2026: Ocoee paving the way for a sportier future

From Forest Lake Golf Club to Vasant Sports’ pickleball facility to The Dynasty, the city of Ocoee is positioning itself as Central Florida’s sports mecca.

West Orange Times & Observer
News

Leticia Silva
January 6, 2026

Oakland Nature Preserve to host Freshwater Systems course

The preserve will host a Freshwater Systems Master Naturalist Course for six consecutive Fridays beginning Friday, Jan. 16.

West Orange Times & Observer
News

Leticia Silva
January 6, 2026

Italian Garden Pizzeria now is closed

The pizza place located at 13770 W. Colonial Drive, Winter Garden, announced its closure Wednesday, Dec. 31. A new pizzeria, Giovanny’s, will be taking over.