SO U T H W E ST O RA N G E
Observer
Observer Windermere, Horizon West, Dr. Phillips
YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.
FREE • THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2026
VOLUME 11, NO. 35
Summertime slugfest! The Winter Garden Squeeze begins its 13th season of summer play. IN THIS ISSUE.
Royal treatment
2026
SEASON PREVIEW
YOUR TOWN COUNTY CONSIDERS CHASE ROAD BRIDGE REPLACEMENTS Orange County’s Public Works is evaluating potential configurations to replace the Chase Road Bridge. The proposed concept includes a two-lane bridge with shoulders and sidewalks to enhance safety and pedestrian connectivity. The evaluation will result in the development of a conceptual design that addresses infrastructure improvements. Any future phases, including construction, only will occur if funding becomes available. In the meantime, the bridge will remain open and safe for public use. There is no construction currently scheduled.
DRIFTWOOD MARKET REOPENS ON MAIN Driftwood Market, a gift boutique, has moved to a new location at 49 S. Main St., Winter Garden. The boutique held its grand opening Saturday, May 30, as well as an eighth anniversary celebration. Owners Tina and Paige Butler invite residents to browse the newly designed space, filled with home décor, gifts, apparel and more. King David Hill, owner of Southern Hill Farms, provided carriage rides throughout his land.
Photos by Liz Ramos
Stella Pearl, Olivia Jakubowski and Tori Pearl have hosted tea parties at home for years. They were surrounded by other royalty at the Royal Tea Party.
Southern Hill Farms welcomed princesses from far and wide to its inaugural Royal Tea Party Saturday, May 30, at The Hide. STORY ON PAGE 4A.
END OF AN ERA Windermere Preparatory School celebrated the Class of 2026. PAGE 13A.
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: CENTRAL FLORIDA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY | 14A INNOVATON MONTESSORI OCOEE | 14A
TOURNEY OF CHAMPIONS
Winter Garden approves Johns Lake community The Winter Garden City Commission unanimously approved the rezone proposal for a 613-home Johns Lake development despite concerns about traffic. SEE PAGE 6A.
Players from Windermere, DP and Winter Garden took the field for the Little League Tournament of Champions. PAGE 10A.