The

Demings

Digest

August 2025

Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings and District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson attend the grand opening of Bentonshire Park in Windermere.

Greetings,

It is hard to believe August is already here. With extreme heat and high humidity becoming more common, the risk of heat-related illnesses is rising. This summer, be proactive: stay hydrated and avoid being outdoors during the hottest parts of the day. Orange County is working with the library system, community centers and local homeless shelters to help residents stay cool. You will find more heat safety tips in this month’s newsletter.

Along with the summer heat, families are also preparing for the new school year. I encourage you to take advantage of Florida’s 2025 Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday, now through August 31. It is a great opportunity to save on school supplies clothing, and electronics.

Prolonged exposure to extreme heat increases your risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Stay safe and cool this summer with these tips:

Wear lightweight, loose-fitting and light-colored clothing.
Schedule outdoor tasks for either earlier or later in the day.
Stay hydrated by drinking water and beverages that contain electrolytes.
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30 or higher.

Be sure to take breaks indoors with air conditioning when possible.

In the News

Summer Heat Safety: Know the Warning Signs of Heat-Related Illnesses

As Central Florida braces for rising summer temperatures, it is important to recognize the early symptoms of heat‑related illnesses and when to act. Knowing the warning signs will help you and your loved ones stay safe and healthy this summer.

Orange County Marks One Year of Accelerated Transportation Safety Program with 76 Projects Completed

One year after Orange County launched its Accelerated Transportation Safety Program, County officials are reporting strong progress in improving roadway safety, access and mobility for residents across all six districts.

Orange County Financial Empowerment Center: Six Months of Community Impact

Orange County's Financial Empowerment Center initiative, which has helped hundreds of people take control of their finances, is expanding its reach, now with five locations operating across the County and a new virtual meeting option designed to make financial counseling more accessible than ever.

Sales Tax Holiday

Do not miss out on Florida’s 2025 Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday now through Sunday, August 31, 2025. Items exempt from sales tax include:

Learning aids and jigsaw puzzles - $30 or less
Most school supplies - $50 or less
Clothing, footwear and accessories - $100 or less
Computers and related accessories - $1,500 or less (when purchased for non-commercial and personal use)

Learn more by visiting the Florida Department of Revenue.

Hurricane Season Guide

Orange County has partnered with WESH 2 News to ensure your family is prepared for the 2025 Hurricane season. Check out our full video series below and visit ocfl.net/Storm or Ready.gov for more emergency tips.

Small Business Enterprise Program

Orange County has launched a new Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Program designed to encourage small businesses to participate in the procurement of goods and services for Orange County and expand opportunities for local small businesses to participate in county procurement and contracting.

Learn more by visiting Orange County’s official Small Business Enterprise Program page .

Back to School

Back to School Fair

August 2, 9 a.m.

Join District 6 Commissioner Michael Scott at this free event at Barnett Park featuring community resources and a school supply giveaway.

Ready, Set, Learn! Health Fair

August 2-3

Winter Garden Back to School Bash

August 2, 11 a.m.

Get the supplies you need to head back to school while enjoying a fun end-of-summer event at Zanders Park.

Backpack Giveaway Drive-Up Event

August 2

Join Commissioner Mayra Uribe at one of three free backpack drive-up events in District 3.

First Day of School in Orange County

August 11

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

Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday

August 1-31

Consumers can purchase qualifying back-to-school supplies exempt from tax during the 2025 Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday.

Community Calendar

Creating Boards that Work

August 9, 9 a.m.

Attend this free workshop to learn strategies and tips on overcoming board dysfunction and failure.

Popcorn Flicks in the Park

August 14, 8 p.m.

Come to Winter Park with your blanket, snacks, family and friends to enjoy this film series featuring classic movies suitable for the whole family.

Florida Kids and Family Expo

August 23-24

Explore a wide range of programs and products for education, entertainment and athletics during this interactive family-friendly event.

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