SO U T H W E ST O RA N G E
Observer Windermere, Horizon West, Dr. Phillips
YOU. YOUR NEIGHBORS. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD. VOLUME 9, NO. 19
Meet SOBO’s Artist of the Month for February, PJ Svejda. SEE PAGE 7A.
FREE • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024
Absolute fun-demonium! Windermere Elementary students saddled up for the 2024 Spring Carnival. SEE PAGE 5B.
YOUR TOWN THE HEAT IS ON FOR CHILI COOKOFF
Our happy place
McKey Street in downtown Ocoee will be closed Saturday, Feb. 17, for the third annual Central Florida Chili Cookoff. The street party, set for noon to 4 p.m., is a fundraiser to support Legacy Events for Education and its mission to inspire students, teachers and communities to leave their legacy on the world. Sample 30 chilis provided by local restaurants and chefs, have a bite from food trucks and dessert vendors, enjoy live entertainment, and let your children play in the Kids Zone. Wristbands are $15 for adults and $7 for children (which includes Kids Zone entry). For tickets, visit bit. ly/3SUWNn5.
WELLNESS PARK CELEBRATES ONE YEAR
The city of Ocoee is hosting a block party to celebrate the one-year anniversary of its Healthy West Orange Wellness Park, 1320 S. Bluford Ave. The festivities are from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 17, at the park, located across from the Ocoee Police Department. Enjoy fitness activities, a rock-climbing wall, health resources, and music and dance performances. Take a walk around the ponds, enjoy the views on the boardwalk and meet local health partners. Admission is free and open to all ages. Leashed dogs are welcome. Parking is at HighPoint Church, 476 Ocoee Commerce Parkway.
WIN $2,500 FOR YOUR SCHOOL!
Courtesy photo
Markus Barras accepted a $1,000 check from essay sponsor Amy Kidwell, left, of Heart and Home Orlando. With them is Marcal Joyner, Markus’ favorite teacher, who received a $100 gift certificate.
Horizon High School senior Markus Barras won the $1,000 prize in a new essay contest. THE PROMPT: Why I love living in Disney’s backyard. STORY ON PAGE 4A.
Windermere CHAMBER HONORS LEADERS The West collects public Orange Chamber of input on Town Commerce’s Big Orange Hall plans Awards Residents still have concerns relating to Town Hall’s historical designation, safety, the gazebo and the grant. SEE PAGE 2A.
featured a little Disney magic. PAGE 3A.