SO U T H W E ST O RA N G E
Observer Windermere, Horizon West, Dr. Phillips
YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD. VOLUME 11, NO. 33
Dr. Phillips High alum Bobby Olszewski has spent his life serving his hometown. 3A.
FREE • THURSDAY, MAY 21, 2026
Purr-fect Panthers Dr. Phillips High shows off its school spirit at Panther Pride Day. 13A.
YOUR TOWN GYMNASTICS USA RAISES $3K FOR 8 WAVES Gymnastics USA held its annual G.USA Olympics Saturday, May 16. More than 1,200 athletes performed and five programs were highlighted. The G.USA Olympics is a noncompetitive, Olympic-like event, where athletes can showcase their skills to family and friends without scores or judges. Beyond supporting athletes, the event raised $3,000 for 8 Waves, a nonprofit supporting students facing barriers in Orange and Lake counties through education recovery, tutoring and whole-student support. “We are so proud of every athlete who stepped out and showcased their hard work in gymnastics, ninja, tumbling and aerial skills,” Gymnastics USA officials said. “The energy, confidence and support throughout the entire event was incredible to watch! Thank you to our athletes, coaches, families and community for making another amazing G.USA Olympics possible. We already can’t wait for next year.”
White coat tales Pedro Do Coutto Silveira, a junior at Windermere Preparatory School, wrote his first book from his passion to become a doctor and help others. His book gave him a new purpose, and he is using it as a tool to help fund treatment at Connection. STORY ON PAGE 4A.
OCOEE POOL NOW OPEN FOR SUMMER
The pool at the Family Aquatic Facility at Jim Beech Recreation Center in Ocoee is open for the summertime. From Saturday, May 16, through Saturday, May 30, the pool will be open from 2 to 6 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, and noon to 6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. The pool also will open for the public on Memorial Day, from noon to 6 p.m. Monday, May 25. The pool will be open daily from noon to 6 p.m. Monday, June 1, through Sunday, Aug. 9, From Monday, Aug. 10, through Sunday, Sept. 20, the pool will be open from 2 to 6 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, and noon to 6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.
Photo by Megan Bruinsma
Windermere Preparatory School’s junior Pedro Do Coutto Silveira turned his school project into a children’s book, which was inspired by his own dream of becoming a doctor, and a vessel to give back to the community.
SET UP FOR SUCCESS
MATTHEW’S HOPE IN NEED OF WATER, ELECTROLYTES
As the summer heat approaches, Matthew’s Hope Ministries is asking for bottled water and electrolyte drinks. The ministry also is in need of fresh meal items such as fruits, vegetables and salads, as well as paper goods such as paper plates, paper coffee cups, plastic juice cups, paper cereal bowls, trash bags and more. Donations are accepted from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, Saturdays until noon, or by appointment, at 611 Business Park Blvd., Winter Garden.
The Horizon boys volleyball team made a state final appearance. 9A.
Johns Lake project earns first approval The Winter Garden City Commission unanimously approved the first reading of a rezone proposal for a 613-home development after the project underwent changes to address concerns. SEE PAGE 7A.
Town of Windermere receives clear audit Windermere received an unmodified audit opinion, which is the best type the town can receive. SEE PAGE 8A.