Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings and Orange County District 2 Commissioner Christine Moore cut the ribbon for Orange County Parks and Recreation’s new $2-million covered arena at Clarcona Horse Park in Apopka, Florida.

MAYOR DEMINGS' DIGEST

Greetings,

August and its hot, humid days have officially arrived. In addition to staying safe from the heat, families are busy preparing children for the start of a new school year, and our dedicated educators, administrators, support staff, crossing guards and bus drivers are getting ready to welcome students back to Orange County Public Schools on Thursday, August 10. With classes back in session, please remember when driving to be mindful and slow down near schools and crossing zones.

I also want to encourage parents to take advantage of Florida’s 2023 Back to School Tax Holiday now through August 6. Eligible supplies, clothing and electronics are tax free during this period, so be sure to save money while completing those classroom supply lists.

Finally, for local small businesses still recovering from the pandemic, Orange County has launched the Small Business BOOST Program, which offers grants to eligible small businesses, home-based businesses and gig workers impacted by the pandemic. Learn more about this program, including eligibility requirements, by visiting ocfl.net/Boost.

I wish all of you a happy and safe start to the school year!

Sincerely,

Jerry L. Demings

New Business Grant Program | News 13

Intern Program Helps Local Teens | WESH

Other Orange County News:

• Chief Innovation & Emerging Technologies Officer Profile: Simone Babb
• Leading Sustainability & Resilience: Chief Officer Carrie Black
• Pilot Program Providing Child Care for Domestic Violence Survivors
• Academy Teaches Businesses How to Work with Orange County
• Task Force Makes Final Recommendations on Tourist Tax Projects
• Florida Simulation Summit a Forum for Collaboration

Is your business still recovering from the pandemic? The Orange County Small Business BOOST program may be able to help. Small businesses, home-based businesses and gig workers who have experienced a 25% decline in revenue due to the pandemic may be eligible to receive a grant up to $10,000, $3,000, and $1,400 respectively.

Learn more: ocfl.net/BOOST

Orange County Library System August Events

August 2023

August is a busy month at the Orange County Library System. Find a virtual or in-person event at a branch near you.

Hispanic Heritage Month: Call For Artists

August 2023

Calling all Central Florida artists! Submit your original artwork inspired by Hispanic heritage and culture for the annual Hispanic Heritage Month Art Exhibit.

True Health Back to School Bash

July 31 to August 9

True Health is hosting a Back to School Bash with $30 annual physicals, free backpacks, and enrollment assistance for Florida KidCare from July 31st to August 9th.

Winter Garden Back to School Bash

August 5

Get the supplies you need to head back to school while enjoying a fun, end-of-summer event that includes a free backpack and school supplies giveaway.

First Day of School in Orange County

August 10

Make sure your child is set up for success! Visit Orange County Public Schools Resource guide for important enrollment information and resources.

Popcorn Flicks in the Park

August 10

Bring a blanket, snacks, and some family and friends to Winter Park for this film series featuring classic movies for the whole family.

Electronic Waste and Textile Recycling Event

August 12

Safely and properly recycle your electronics and textiles at Orlando Festival Park. Accepted items include TVs, cell phones, rechargeable batteries and more.

Preparing Your Fall Garden: In Person & Virtual Class

August 24

Learn how to make a vegetable garden plan, build garden beds, and prepare a healthy soil for a great growing season hosted by UF/IFAS Extension Orange County.

Back to School Bird Bash

August 26

Kick off the school year with games crafts and educational activities at the Audubon Center for Birds of Prey in Maitland. Admission is free with a donation from the wishlist.

Don’t wait! Florida’s 2023 Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday ends on Sunday, August 6, 2023.

During this sales tax holiday, certain clothing, footwear, school supplies and personal computers are exempt from sales tax. Families and students can learn more by reading the Florida Department of Revenue’s T.I.P Sheet or its frequently asked questions.

Did you know Orange County’s fertilizer rules help keep fertilizer runoff from rain out of our lakes, rivers and springs? There are many ways to green up your yard without greening up our natural waters with algae. Skip the nitrogen fertilizer during the rainy summer months from June 1 to September 30. 

Visit Orange County’s Fertilize Responsibly web page to learn more about the ordinance.