APRIL 2018
Greetings,

Since taking office in 2011, my priority has been to create a sustainable future of ever-growing economic prosperity and opportunity for all, built upon Orange County's innovation-driven, forward-focused investments, and our strategic investment in crucial quality-of-life infrastructure and services, including a diverse arts, sports and recreation environment, thriving natural resources, efficient roads and transit systems, and a broad array of public safety and family resources.

Today, through a combination of strong economic growth, responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars and the valuable contributions of our business, faith, non-profit and education communities, Orange County has undergone transformational quality-of-life changes that will benefit the region for generations to come.

I invite you to join us at the at the 2018 State of the County for an overview of our robust job and wage growth, stable and fiscally responsible management of County finances and strategically focused initiatives that continue to enhance Orange County's quality of life, and provide the groundwork for future prosperity. The State of the County will be held on Friday, May 18, 4 p.m., at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. To reserve your seat, please register at www.ocfl.net/SOC18.

The event is complimentary and open to the public. The speech will also be televised live on Orange TV, which is carried on Spectrum Channel 488, Comcast Channel 9, CenturyLink Channel 1081, digital over-the-air on 10.2 and will be live-streamed on Facebook, Twitter and newsroom.ocfl.net.

I am inspired each and every day by how far our community has come as a result of our culture of creativity, collaboration and compassion. By working together - from community champions and volunteers to local residents, students, businesses, partners and guests - our unrelenting efforts and expansive vision have created a strong and sustainable community.

As always, I thank you for staying connected with your local government and for making Orange County the best place to live, work and raise a family. I hope to see you at the 2018 State of the County!

Sincerely,

Teresa Jacobs
Orange County Mayor
In This Issue

youthLeadershipSeventh Annual Youth Leadership Conference
Leaves Lasting Impression with Students
 

Hundreds of high school students from 26 Orange County Public Schools attended Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs' Youth Leadership Conference held at Valencia College on March 9. Now in its seventh year, the program was created by Mayor Jacobs in 2011 for student leaders to connect with their local government and learn the tools of leadership. More than 1,400 students have participated in the program since its inception.   Learn more>
cypressGroveSeventh Annual Jazz in the Park
Brings Hundreds to Cypress Grove Park
 

Orange County's historic Cypress Grove Park welcomed more than 1,000 guests from across Central Florida at Mayor Teresa Jacobs' seventh annual Jazz in the Park celebration on March 3, 2018.

Nestled along beautiful Lake Jessamine, Cypress Grove Park set the stage for guests to enjoy performances by local jazz musicians, as well as family-friendly activities and food trucks. Jazz in the Park was founded in 2012 by Mayor Jacobs to recognize local service and volunteer organizations. The event is coordinated by Orange County Parks and Recreation and sponsored by local radio stations Jazzy103.com  and WUCF 89.9.  Learn more>
healthEdOrange County Recognized Colon Cancer Awareness Month


On March 9, Orange County employees recognized Colon Cancer Awareness Month by wearing blue to show their support for the American Cancer Society and Colorectal Cancer Alliance. According to the Alliance, colon cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death in men and women combined in the United States.

With regular screening, colon cancer can be found early, when treatment is most effective. In many cases, screening can prevent colon cancer by finding and removing polyps before they become cancer. And if cancer is present, earlier detection means a chance at a longer life.

From answering questions to providing support or a listening ear, the Colorectal Cancer Alliance website and helpline can provide advice on how to cope with a colon cancer diagnosis, treatment and more. Contact (877) 422-2030 or visit https://www.ccalliance.org. 
affordableHousingMayor Teresa Jacobs Hosts Third Regional
Affordable Housing Workshop with Regional Partners 


Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs welcomed the community to the third Regional Affordable Housing Workshop hosted by Orange, Seminole and Osceola counties, and the City of Orlando on April 11 at the Winter Park Community Center. The final workshop explored discussions from prior sessions and focused on identifying regulatory and financial solutions that support affordable housing. The afternoon session consisted of panel discussions focusing on resources and major challenges developers face when building an affordable housing project.  Learn more>
News Worth Noting noticias

March 31 was  National Stop the Bleed Day . Mayor Teresa Jacobs and Orange County's Deputy County Administrator and Director of Health & Public Safety Dr. George Ralls joined leaders to educate the community and bring awareness to this life-saving initiative.
 


Help keep Orange County's recycling clean. Remember to "Think 5" when recycling - Plastic (#1-#5), metal and glass containers, bottles and cardboard and paper. And when in doubt? Throw it out! Learn more at  newsroom.ocfl.net.


CONNECT WITH US