Orange Observer

01/08/2026

Good afternoon, everyone!

We are looking for Venezuelans in Winter Garden, Ocoee, Oakland, Windermere and Dr. Phillips to speak to one of our reporters about Nicolás Maduro’s capture.

If you’re interested or know anyone who’d be willing to be interviewed, email [email protected]

Thank you.

01/08/2026

The newest training facility for the 407 has officially opened its doors. 407Basketball is welcoming a new era of youth training, academics and growth.

After growing from Windermere Basketball Academy and fusing with 407Volleyball, 407Sports is welcoming a new era of youth training, academics and growth.

01/08/2026

The election will take place March 10.

Mayor Bryan Nelson is suing Commissioner Christine Moore to get her off the March ballot, claiming she hasn't met the residency requirements to run.

01/08/2026

FORECAST 2026: Meet Horizon High School teacher William Loggans, who has become the nation's poster child for independent thought in public schools.

How Horizon High School teacher William Loggans became the poster child for independent thought in public education.

01/08/2026

Getting back into the gym can feel intimidating—but at the Y, you belong from day one.

Group Exercise classes like BodyPump, Zumba, Yoga and more offer guidance, encouragement, and a supportive environment to help you ease back into movement—and start getting Y strong together.

The focus isn’t perfection—it’s progress, connection, and building the habit of showing up.

Explore the full Group Exercise schedule on our app or at ymcacf.org.

01/08/2026

Spend An Evening with Nicholas Sparks at the Dr. Phillips Center and bring a friend for free with buy one, get one free tickets available now. Join Orange County Library System (FL) Saturday, January 17, to hear the bestselling author of "The Notebook" and "A Walk to Remember" share his stories and inspirations and answer audience questions. Learn more and get two tickets for the price of one today at ocls.org/NicholasSparks.

01/08/2026

You've all probably heard discussions surrounding property tax reforms by now.
But what's actually going on?

Here's an explanation of what is being proposed, what that means for West Orange County and what you can do to stay informed:

The state has been working on multiple proposals regarding property tax relief. These proposals will be voted on during November’s general election as they are approved by the state Legislature.

01/07/2026

The school is scheduled to open in August.

A new Horizon West elementary school to open in August to alleviate nearby Panther Lake and Water Spring elementary schools.

01/07/2026

Boathouse Restaurant LLC is facing a lawsuit exceeding $50,000 in damages for the wrongful death of Kevin Duncan.

The restaurant is facing a lawsuit after a man died from severe hypoxia and cardiopulmonary arrest after choking on a piece of steak.

01/07/2026

The incident took place Saturday, January 3.

Journey Mikah Powell, 22, was arrested Saturday, Jan. 3, after Ocoee police received a call regarding a shooting at 2291 Laurel Blossom Circle, Ocoee.

01/07/2026

The City of Ocoee has positioned itself to become a sports mecca in the years to come through approvals of The Dynasty | Ocoee and Vasant Sports' pickleball facility.

Residents can expect the largest changes to come from improvements at Forest Lake Golf Course in the upcoming year.

From Forest Lake Golf Club to Vasant Sports’ pickleball facility to The Dynasty, the city of Ocoee is positioning itself as Central Florida’s sports mecca.

01/07/2026

Olympia Titan Athletics junior guard earned his 1,000th career point to kick off the Metro Conference tournament campaign.

The Titans' guard James Nowells joined the 1K club in the Titans’ defeat over LBV.