MAYOR DEMINGS' DIGEST

Greetings,

Can you believe February is already upon us? It has been a busy first few weeks of 2023 with many events taking place across our region, including the unveiling of new large-scale sculptures featured outside the Orange County Administration Center as part of our 8th annual Sculpture on the Lawn exhibit.

Last month, I was honored to help the Orange County Library System kick off its year-long celebration of 100 years of service to our community. Since 1923, our library system has served as a wonderful gathering place for people in our community. Today, it has 15 locations across the County, providing books, digital resources and educational programs for residents and visitors alike.

In the spirit of bringing the message of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to all corners of Orange County, our Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Initiative continues its community outreach activities. Through inclusiveness and collaboration, this initiative commemorates Dr. King’s work and legacy for years to come. You can learn more about the special events planned during Black History Month by visiting the Initiative’s calendar of events.

There are so many great things happening early in 2023, and as I begin my second term as your Mayor, I want to assure you my staff is focused on priorities and initiatives that directly affect the residents of Orange County. Affordable housing, transportation, economic development and public safety are just a few of the important issues we will be concentrating on during the next four years. You have given me an opportunity to continue to lead in both exciting and challenging times, and I am forever grateful for your support.

Sincerely,

Housing For All Initiative | WESH

I-Drive Education Program | WMFE

Other Orange County News:

• A Look Ahead: Mayor Demings’ Priorities for 2023
• Orange County Launches Pilot Program for I-Drive Employees
• Head Start Staffer Awarded Prestigious Statewide Recognition
• Orange County Receives 16th Straight Tree City USA Designation

88^th Annual Bach Festival

February 3-26, 2023

The Bach Festival is back, offering a dynamic array of world-class musicians and vocalists. Watch performances of classical masterworks and contemporary compositions that will delight, challenge and inspire listeners.

Emotional Rollercoaster: Love Letter to Life

February 3, 2023

The onePULSE Foundation, in partnership with the Orange County Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Initiative and Bethune-Cookman University, hosts an original readers theater piece – “Emotional Rollercoaster: Love Letter to Life” – in recognition of Black History Month.

HAPCO Jazz Fest Ocoee

February 4, 2023

Enjoy an evening listening to incredible jazz. Join the HAPCO Music Foundation and the City of Ocoee for an evening headlined by UCF’s Flying Horse Big Band and featuring a talented lineup of local musicians.

Winter Garden Heritage and Music Festival

February 11, 2023

The City of Winter Garden commemorates its heritage with a special 120th anniversary extravaganza, featuring six entertainment stages, strolling performers, a kid’s zone, food and other family activities.

Valentine’s Day Group Wedding

February 14, 2023

On Valentine’s Day, join other couples saying their vows on the beautiful courtyard steps outside of the iconic downtown Orlando Courthouse during Orange County Clerk of Courts’ annual group wedding ceremony.

Celebrating Black Arts and Culture

February 18, 2023

Celebrate Black American history, arts and culture in Central Florida at the Orange County Regional History Center. This free event will offer fun learning opportunities for the entire family, including hands-on activities and performances.

Orange County Library System’s Wi-Fi hotspot device lending program provides wireless broadband internet to customers who do not have access to the internet and need this service to meet their educational needs. Available for check out now! To learn more, visit the Orange County Library System’s website.

Residents who believe they are a victim of fraud or unfair business practices in Orange County can file a report with the Consumer Protection Office. Additionally, the Office investigates complaints of trespass towing and the use of vehicle immobilization devices, typically referred to as a “boot.”

Do you want to become more involved in making Orange County a sustainable community? Join the Citizen Planner Academy – a series of classes designed to promote and increase citizen engagement in sustainable decision in planning basics, sustainability and other special topics.