Orange County Fire Rescue crews conducted rescues and evacuations of residents and pets due to rising flood waters caused by Hurricane Ian in September 2022.
Orange County Fire Rescue crews conducted rescues and evacuations of residents and pets due to rising flood waters caused by Hurricane Ian in September 2022.
MAYOR DEMINGS' DIGEST

November is a time for giving thanks, and this year, that message has never been more meaningful. Orange County residents have been through a lot in the past few weeks as we recover from the damage and hardship brought on by Hurricane Ian in late September. I am thankful for how our community continues to come together to help one another as affected residents rebuild their lives and homes. I am also profoundly grateful for the hundreds of Orange County employees who have worked tirelessly before, during and after the storm to help residents regain a sense of normalcy. We know there is still much more to do in the coming weeks, but we will get there by working together.

With the cooler fall temperatures starting to manifest, it is an excellent time for outdoor festivals, and this November, there are many fun outdoor offerings across the County to enjoy. The popular Fusion Fest is back in downtown Orlando on November 26 and 27. This free, two-day, family-friendly festival features music, dance, food, fashion, visional arts and much more. Read more in this newsletter about all the festivals and activities occurring this month.

We kick off the 12th Annual Orange County Mayor’s Toy Drive in two weeks. The aftermath of the hurricane has made it difficult for many families, and they will need extra help to make their children’s holidays brighter. This year’s Toy Drive launches on November 14, with toy donations accepted either in person or online. Read more in this newsletter about how you can help others this holiday season.

I wish everyone a safe and beautiful Thanksgiving holiday.

Sincerely,
IN THE NEWS
MAYOR’S TOY DRIVE
‘Tis the season! The Orange County Mayor’s Toy Drive kicks off on Monday, November 14, 2022. A single toy donation can help make the holiday season joyous and bright for families in need throughout our community. Residents and businesses are encouraged to drop off new, unwrapped toys or gifts for children ages 18 and under or donate online through Orange County’s virtual toy shop. All toys collected are distributed to Orange County youth and family agencies.

Learn by visiting ocfl.net/ToyDrive.
HURRICANE IAN RECOVERY
As Orange County continues to recover from the effects of Hurricane Ian, resources are available to help residents dealing with the impacts of the storm. FEMA and the Florida Department of Emergency Management have opened a Disaster Recovery Center to provide a one-stop shop for in-person individual and business assistance.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR
November 2022

November is full of events at the Orange County Library System. Find a virtual or in-person event at a branch near you.
November 2022

From boy bands to the underground music scene, Orlando has played a pivitol role in the evolution of music culture. Check out the Figurehead: Music and Mayhem in Orlando’s Underground exhibit at the Orange County Regional History Center.
November 4, 2022

Orange County Parks and Recreation is hosting a free movie night at Independence Park in Winter Garden. Bring the whole family and enjoy an outdoor showing of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
November 5 and 6, 2022

One of Central Florida's longest-running traditions returns for its 51st year. Bring the family as hundreds of amazing artists, crafters and food vendors take over the streets around Lake Eola Park.
November 12, 2022

Week of the Family is proud to host events that strengthen families through fitness, fun, service and education. Enjoy the weekend with Orange County Parks and Recreation at Cypress Grove Park for Mayor’s Family Fun Day.
November 12, 2022

The Orange County Cooperative Extension will host its Adopt-a-Tree event at Barnett Park. Trees will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Residents should bring proof of Orange County residency such as a driver’s license, photo ID or utility bill.
November 12, 2022

Join more than 3,000 fellow beer lovers to sample craft and premium beers from local breweries and around the country. Enjoy interactive games, tasty eats, live music and more.
November 20, 2022

Orange County Animal Services invites you to meet the more than 80 rescue groups across the state that aid in the recovery and adoption of homeless animals. Rescue pets will be available for adoption as well as free vaccines and food trucks.
FUSIONFEST
FusionFest - It's Diversitastic! - Satisfy your curiosity about the world
FusionFest’s free, family-friendly festival is back! Residents can experience more than 100 different cultures through food, music, dance, fashion, visual arts, spoken word, games and interactive activities. The Opening Spectacle and Diversitastic Choir will kick-off the festivities on both days following the Thanksgiving holiday.

Date: November 26 and 27, 2022
Time: Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Location: Seneff Arts Plaza at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

Orange County Arts and Cultural Affairs proudly supports FusionFest. For more information, visit fusionfest.org.
SOCIAL MEDIA HIGHLIGHTS
Facebook: Orange County Fire Rescue crews helped residents and their furry friends evacuate due to rising flood waters caused by Hurricane Ian.
Twitter: The Orange County Asian Committee, in collaboration with the Asian Cultural Association, FusionFest and the India Center at UCF, celebrated Diwali, the Festival of Lights.
Instagram: Residents, businesses and nonprofits celebrated our region’s culture of collaboration and inclusion during this year’s Come Out With Pride festivities.
Check out these social media highlights, connect with Orange County Government and follow Mayor Demings on Facebook and Twitter.
Innovation. Collaboration. Inclusion.