W EST O RA N G E T I M E S &
Observer Winter Garden, Ocoee, Oakland
YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.
See the area’s largest realestate sales in our report. SEE PAGES 7-8A.
FREE • THURSDAY, JULY 16, 2026
VOLUME 93, NO. 29
Tax reform could silence Ocoee Music Fest As the city braces for potential impacts from property tax changes, leaders are considering postponing the popular event. SEE 3A.
YOUR TOWN APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR GRANT PROGRAM Applications are being accepted for the 2026 Dr. Phillips Charities Legacy Microgrant Program. This program will award 15 $5,000 grants to eligible nonprofits serving Orange and Osceola counties, with recipients recognized at the annual Dr. Phillips Charities Impact Awards in October. Applications are open through Friday, Aug. 7. The Legacy Microgrant Program reflects Dr. Phillips Charities’ commitment to investing in organizations that strengthen the community and create opportunities for Central Florida residents. Since launching, the program has awarded 30 microgrants totaling $150,000 to eligible local nonprofits with annual operating budgets of $2 million or less. Grants are available to organizations working in arts and culture; children and youth; education; health; and social services. Priority is given to projects that reduce economic pressures on ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) and low-income families while creating lasting community impact. For more information or to apply, visit drphillips.org/applyfor-grants-11.
ARTISTS UNLEASHED
Local families were among the first to play at Level99. PAGE 3A.
Contract talks to continue Orange County Public Schools and the teachers union still are at odds over new deal. SEE PAGE 6A.
ROCK ‘N REV OCOEE ANNOUNCES NEW HOURS
Rock ‘N Rev, an American music bar and grill located in Ocoee, has updated its business hours. Beginning Monday, July 13, the location no longer will open on Mondays. “Don’t worry — we’re not slowing down!” Rock ‘N Rev officials said. “Our team will be using Mondays behind the scenes to create even more exciting, engaging and familyfriendly experiences for you to enjoy throughout the week.” The bar and grill will remain open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays, and 11 a.m. to midnight Fridays and Saturdays. Officials also said while the location will be closed to the public on Mondays, celebrations, parties, private events and meetings still can be scheduled. “Thank you for your continued support,” officials said.
NACHO AVERAGE OPENING IN W.G. A new taco spot is headed to Winter Garden. Tacos My Guey will be opening at 1025 S. Dillard St. Although the grand opening date has yet to be announced, the restaurant posted on social media that the first 50 guests will enjoy a free meal. Tacos My Guey started as a food truck serving Mexican street food. The menu was expanded to include birria tacos, quesadillas, burritos, bowls and esquites.
Much fun intended
John Pucci captured a moment of his dogs Murphy and Whiskey diving into a pup cup.
Liz Ramos
Area artists show off their talents with depictions of their furry friends in Winter Garden’s ‘Dog Days of Summer’ art exhibit, which will be in City Hall through July 31. STORY ON PAGE 4A.
Vote of confidence
The West Orange chamber hosted its 2026 Hob Nob July 9. PAGE 11A.