SO U T H W E ST O RA N G E
Observer Windermere, Horizon West, Dr. Phillips
YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.
Southwest Orange artists take center stage at annual arts festival. PAGE 14A.
FREE • THURSDAY, APRIL 30, 2026
VOLUME 11, NO. 30
Some enchanted evening Windermere fathers and daughters made memories at Daddy Daughter Dance. SEE PAGE 7A.
Gold mime
YOUR TOWN WOJSL RIDES WITH ANNUAL RUN OF THE ROSES
The West Orange Junior Service League is saddling up for its annual Run for the Roses. This year’s event will take place from 5 to 10 p.m. Saturday, May 2, at Clermont Arts and Recreation Center, 3700 S. U.S. 27, Clermont. Guests will indulge in refreshing derby-inspired drinks and savor Kentucky-inspired cuisine while enjoying thrilling casino games and dancing to live music. This exciting night also will feature a silent auction, bourbon pull, “best dressed” contest and raffles — with all proceeds supporting vital local charities in West Orange County. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their finest derby attire and enjoy an evening of camaraderie and generosity while supporting the league’s mission. Sponsorship opportunities also are available for those wishing to further contribute. To purchase tickets or become a sponsor, visit bit. ly/4mWLKat. Erik Morgan enjoys working as Mr. Gold, meeting new people on a daily basis.
Photo by Leticia Silva
Erik Morgan, a visually impaired Orlando native, is carrying Mr. Gold’s legacy every day at The Grove in Windermere. STORY ON PAGE 4A.
POINT OF PRIDE
Smoke shop near Olympia High School sparks debate Teens spoke at the Orange County Board of County Commissioners in support of buffer zones between schools and vape shops. PAGE 6A.
Horizon High School’s girls lacrosse team fell in the Class 2A Regional Quarterfinal, but still, the Lady Hawks are trending up. PAGE 9A.
School shenanigans!
Games, rides and performances delighted attendees at Hamlin Elementary’s fourth annual carnival. PAGE 13A.
OCOEE POLICE TO SERVE UP ANNUAL PICNIC
The Ocoee Police Department is spreading out its blankets and filling its picnic baskets for its Community Picnic this weekend. This event will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 2, at Vignetti Park, 1910 Adair St., Ocoee. Attendees will enjoy free food, games and prizes, and also will have a chance to visit with local vendors.