Last Friday I participated in my 100th Work-Along as Mayor of our City. I joined Police Chief Paul Rooney, several police officers and local organization Moms Remembered to replace broken wall-unit air conditioners for elderly residents of Parramore. For the past few years, I have used my work-alongs to highlight service organizations that benefit the community. We honor these non-profit agencies and their volunteers in April during National Volunteer Month.

Volunteers play an important role in our community. Through their dedication and inspiration, they provide needed services that enrich and sustain our community. Be it social services, the arts, children development, education, elder care or other interests, volunteers and non-profit organizations give their time to help others.

Last year, our City launched Orlando Cares, an initiative to recruit volunteers for local service organizations. Orlando Cares focuses on six programs impacting children development, including a book club and a gardening program. By connecting people with a desire to serve with volunteer organizations, Orlando Cares is helping to cultivate the spirit of giving back to the community.

I want to thank all the volunteers in Orlando for their contributions to our community and their spirit of cooperation. This desire to serve has a significant impact on the people they help. Volunteers show how they love their City by what they do and that love makes Orlando a great City.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
City Elections
Green Works Orlando Update
Neighborhood Happenings: Free Neighborhood Leadership Training, Funding for Neighborhood Projects, Health Neighborhood Communication 
Did You Know?
Mayor in the Community
Events

Elections will take place for Mayor and for Commissioners in Districts 1, 2, 4 and 6 on Tuesday, April 3, so please be sure to exercise your right to vote.

Early voting for the City of Orlando's general election continues until Sunday, April 1, at the Orange County Supervisor of Elections Office at 119 West Kaley Avenue. Hours of operation are Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

If you are voting by absentee ballot, it must be received by the Supervisor of Elections office by 7 p.m. on April 3.

If you plan to vote at the polls on Election Day, please note that because of redistricting, you may be in a new City Commission district and at a new polling place. For this reason, it is important that you find out where you vote before Election Day. On March 22, the Supervisor of Elections mailed out a sample ballot and a notice of polling place location to all registered voters in the City. If you did not receive your sample ballot, you can also go online and determine your correct polling place at OrangeCountyVotes.com or you can call 407.836.2070.

The polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day, April 3. If you bring your sample ballot with you to your polling place, the election staff can scan the bar code and save you some time.

You can find out more information about the candidates and their campaign finances at CityofOrlando.net/Elections.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Community Venues: Amway Arena Demolition
Neighborhood Happenings: Workshop Handouts Online, New High School Magnet Program Promotes Leadership and Entrepreneurship, Free Neighborhood Leadership Training 
Strengthen Orlando Update: Mayor Dyer Participates in his 100th Work-along, SunRail Survey
City Council Update
Did You Know?
Mayor in the Community
Events

I value the contributions that our neighborhood volunteers and community organizations make to Orlando. To recognize the importance of their hard work, we recently announced the winners of the Mayor's Neighborhood Champion Award and the Mayor's Community Builder Award. And the envelope please...

Tommy Chappell of the Spring Lake Manor Neighborhood Association won the Mayor's Neighborhood Champion Award. An extraordinary man, Tommy's love for his neighborhood and commitment to the welfare of his neighbors is evident by his endless contributions. These include mowing the neighborhood entrance, picking up leaves and trash in the street, cutting his neighbors' grass and serving as a Neighborhood Watch block captain. He also picks up neighborhood children from school when needed, cooks for elderly residents and drives them on errands. It's clear by the impact he makes that Tommy truly loves his neighborhood.

Our Community Builder Award recognizes First United Methodist Church. A partner with Family Promise of Greater Orlando, First United Methodist opens its campus five times a year to provide rooms for homeless families. They also support Outreach Love, Inc., a tutoring and mentoring organization serving 25 at-risk children in Parramore. Since 2005, the church has provided space, an insurance umbrella, use of a bus, bookkeeping services and a computer lab. The church is also the founding member of I-Dignity, a program that helps homeless individuals acquire drivers' licenses and other identification needed to secure jobs and other necessities. First United Methodist Church and its volunteers are making a tremendous difference and have gone above and beyond to improve our community.

I congratulate both winners and all of our community and neighborhood volunteers who do so much for our City.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Spring Break Safety
Community Venues Update: Amway Arena Demolition
Elections: Early Voting Begins and Sample Ballots
Neighborhood Happenings: Neighborhood & Community Summit is a Success, Plant Fair, Tips to Engage Neighbors in Association Activities
Did You Know?
Mayor in the Community
Events

The City of Orlando's general election for Mayor and Commissioner in Districts 1, 2, 4 and 6 is April 3. You can find a list of candidates and information about their campaign finances by visiting CityofOrlando.net/Elections.

On March 22, the Supervisor of Elections will mail out a sample ballot and a notice of polling place location to all registered voters in the City. Please note that because of redistricting, you may be in a new district and have a new polling place location.

You may also cast your vote during early voting or by mail with an absentee ballot. Early voting will take place March 26 through April 1 at the Orange County Supervisor of Elections office located at 119 West Kaley Street. If you would like to vote by mail with an absentee ballot you must request your ballot no later than March 28 at 5 p.m. and mail it to the Supervisor of Elections office no later than 7 p.m. on April 3.

Visit OrangeCountyVotes.com to order your absentee ballot, locate your current City district, polling place location and hours of operation for the Orange County Supervisor of Elections office. You may also call 407.836.2070.

I encourage you to exercise your right and vote on April 3.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Green Works Orlando: Amway Arena Demolition
Neighborhood Happenings: Mayor's Matching Grants, Mai Kai Condominium, Florida Neighborhood Conference
Strengthen Orlando Update: Volunteers Needed for Project Homeless Connect,
City Council Update
Did You Know?
Events

Join me on Saturday, March 17, for the seventh annual Mayor's Neighborhood & Community Summit. Each year this Summit brings together neighborhood, arts and cultural, civic, community and faith-based leaders and volunteers to learn and share best practices for community building and civic engagement.

It is important to me to keep you informed, connected and involved in our City. The Summit will provide an opportunity to learn more about City programs and resources, share best practices and trends and receive information that will help guide your organization to make a greater positive impact in our community.

Our program offers opportunities to meet City elected officials and staff, while networking with your peers who share a passion for sustaining strong neighborhoods and creating a vibrant, engaged community. Bringing together involved neighborhood and community leaders for a day of learning, exchanging and networking is what makes this Summit a "must attend" event.

I look forward to seeing you at the Summit. Together, we will keep our City on course for an even better tomorrow.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
City Elections
Public Safety: Preventing Crime Using Landscape and Home Design
Green Works Orlando: Refresh Orlando
Neighborhood Happenings: Free Neighborhood Leadership Workshops, Neighborhood & Community Summit, Florida Neighborhood Conference
Strengthen Orlando Update: City of Orlando Announces Partnership with Goodwill Industries of Central Florida, Volunteers Needed for Project Homeless Connect
Did You Know?
Mayor in the Community
Events

March is National Women's History Month. This year's theme, "Women's Education - Women's Empowerment," recognizes the tenacity, courage, and creativity of women throughout the centuries. It is also a special time to reflect on the extraordinary accomplishments of women and pay tribute to their role in shaping the course of our Nation's history.

Here at Orlando City Hall, women are shaping the future of our City every day. From current City Commissioners Patty Sheehan and Daisy W. Lynum... to former Mayor Glenda Hood who was elected Mayor to three terms... to our City Attorney, Mayanne Downs... to our Chief Financial Officer Rebecca Sutton and our previous Chief of Police, Val Demings; these women, and other female City employees, not only help run our City, they help open opportunities for those to follow them.

As we prepare to write the next chapter of women's history, we must continue to build on the progress won by the trailblazers of the past. Together, we can carry forward and ensure our daughters have no limits on their dreams and no obstacles to their achievements.

For more information and resources visit, the National Women's History Project at NWHP.org

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Green Works Orlando: Refresh Orlando
Neighborhood Happenings: Free Neighborhood Leadership Workshops, Qualities of a Good Association Board Member, Neighborhood & Community Summit,
Strengthen Orlando Update: Volunteers Needed for Project Homeless Connect, Community Venues Job Information Forurm
Did You Know?
Events

After all the anticipation and preparation, the City of Orlando is excited to host the 2012 NBA All-Star game this weekend. This weeklong celebration is much more than a sports and entertainment experience for our residents and visitors; it is an opportunity to give our local businesses and entrepreneurs "an assist" to ensure the NBA All-Star experience is a "slam dunk" for our economy.

As host to this international event, tens of thousands of people are expected to be Downtown for the NBA All-Star Weekend. In preparation for this event, the City's transportation and planning experts have worked to create a detailed plan that eases traffic congestion and focuses on pedestrian options. However, if you are headed Downtown for work or fun, please be prepared for heavier than normal traffic and possible delays.

You are invited to watch the All-Stars under the stars on the big screen at the Lake Eola Park amphitheater. The City of Orlando is hosting the NBA All-Star Game Watch Party on Sunday, February 26, beginning at 6 p.m. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.

Other events, road closure and parking information are available on CityofOrlando.net. I encourage all of you to "get off the bench" and participate in some of the exciting events taking place in Orlando.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

State of the City Address
Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer invites you to the 2012 State of the City Address on Wednesday, February 29, 2012 at 10 a.m. at the UCF College of Medicine.
For directions to the UCF College of Medicine or information on viewing live online, visit CityofOrlando.net/SOC.

Also in this weeks City News: 
Neighborhood Happenings: Free Neighborhood Leadership Workshops, Neighborhood & Community Summit, Neighborhood Champion Award   
Strengthen Orlando Update: Volunteers Needed for Project Homeless Connect, Community Venues Job Information Form, U.S. Department of Justice Launches New Information Website
Did You Know?
Mayor in the Community
Events

This Saturday, February 18, I invite you to attend the sixth annual Blues B-Q in Downtown Orlando in front of the Amway Center. This free concert brings blues fans and food enthusiasts to Downtown for an evening of music and barbeque.
I am proud to announce that this year's event features headliners Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue and The Lee Boys.

Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue have continued to grow their fan base since the release of their GRAMMY nominated debut album, "Backatown", in 2010. Their newest album, "For True", provides proof of their refining signature sound dubbed "Supafunkrock." The Lee Boys, known for their unique "sacred steel" sound, have toured and played with musical artists such as Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead, The Allman Brothers Band, The Black Crowes and Los Lobos.
This year's event will also feature local blues talent including The Kevin Maines Band, CeCe Teneal and the B.B. King All Star Band. Barbeque from Bubbalou's Boadacious BBQ, Ole Skool BBQ and Porkies Original BBQ will also be available for purchase.

The free Blues B-Q takes place Saturday, February 18, from 3 to 10 p.m. at Church Street Plaza in front of the Amway Center, 400 West Church Street. For more information, visit CityofOrlando.net/BluesBQ.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Neighborhood Happenings: 7th Annual Neighborhood and Community Summit, Neighborhood Champion Award, Smoke Alarms Save Lives, Bag It, Don't Blow It   
Strengthen Orlando Update
NBA All-Star Game Update
Did You Know?
Mayor in the Community
Events

Each year I host a Neighborhood & Community Summit to bring together leaders from neighborhood, arts and cultural, community and faith-based organizations to share best ideas and strategies for community building and civic engagement. I invite you join me for this year's seventh annual summit on Saturday, March 17.

It is important to me to keep you informed, connected and involved in our City. The summit will provide an opportunity to learn more about City programs and resources, share best practices and exchange information that will help guide your organization to make a greater impact in our community.

This summit also offers opportunities to meet City elected officials, staff and other residents who share a passion for sustaining strong neighborhoods and creating an engaged community. Bringing together neighborhood and community leaders for a day of learning, exchanging and networking is what makes this summit a "must attend" event.

For more information, listing of workshops and to register for this year's summit, click here. Register by March 1 and only pay $5. After March 1, the summit fee is $10. The summit will be held Saturday, March 17, from 7:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. at the Doubletree Hotel at the entrance to Universal Orlando.

Working together, we will keep our City on course for an even better tomorrow.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Neighborhood Happenings: Free Neighborhood Leadership Training, Free Mandatory Homeowners Association Board Training, Neighborhood Champion Award  
NBA All-Star Game Update
Council Update
Did You Know?
Mayor in the Community
Events

During Black History Month in February we remember the outstanding contributions of African Americans to our country's history and acknowledge significant African-Americans who have helped to make America great. The following is an excerpt from the Official Presidential Proclamation for African American History Month, signed and issued by President Barack Obama:

"This year's theme, "Black Women in American Culture and History," invites us to pay special tribute to the role African American women have played in shaping the character of our Nation - often in the face of both racial and gender discrimination. As courageous visionaries who led the fight to end slavery and tenacious activists who fought to expand basic civil rights to all Americans, African American women have long served as champions of social and political change. And from the literary giants who gave voice to their communities to the artists whose harmonies and brush strokes captured hardships and aspirations, African American women have forever enriched our cultural heritage. Today, we stand on the shoulders of countless African American women who shattered glass ceilings and advanced our common goals. In recognition of their legacy, let us honor their heroic and historic acts for years to come.

The achievements of African American women are not limited to those recorded and retold in our history books. Their impact is felt in communities where they are quiet heroes who care for their families, in boardrooms where they are leaders of industry, in laboratories where they are discovering new technologies, and in classrooms where they are preparing the next generation for the world they will inherit. As we celebrate the successes of African American women, we recall that progress did not come easily, and that our work to widen the circle of opportunity for all Americans is not complete. With eyes cast toward new horizons, we must press on in pursuit of a high-quality education for every child, a job for every American who wants one and a fair chance at prosperity for every individual and family across our Nation.

During National African American History Month, we pay tribute to the contributions of past generations and reaffirm our commitment to keeping the American dream alive for the next generation. In honor of those women and men who paved the way for us, and with great expectations for those to follow, let us continue the righteous cause of making America what it should be - a Nation that is more just and more equal for all its people."

Orlando embraces its diversity and acknowledges the valuable contributions of its African American residents and visitors as we celebrate Black History Month.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Neighborhood Happenings: Free Neighborhood Leadership Training, Register for the 2012 Neighborhood and Community Summit, Neighbors Getting to Know Each Other Through Green Up Orlando  
NBA All-Star Game Update
Did You Know?
Mayor in the Community
Events

This morning, we took an historic step toward reinventing our Central Florida economy and changing the way we travel as we celebrated the commencement of construction on SunRail.

Over the last several years, our community has worked relentlessly to advance a vision for SunRail as the critical first step in the effort to reduce traffic congestion, give our residents desperately-needed alternatives to their automobiles and create tens of thousands of quality jobs.

Today, that vision began turning into reality.

In about 28 months (May of 2014) Central Floridians will, for the first time ever, have access to a commuter rail line that will connect our communities along a 61 mile path that includes stops in the City of Orlando and Volusia, Seminole, Orange and Osceola counties.

I want to thank all our residents, our businesses and our civic partners for their support over the past few years as we have worked together to bring about a new era of transportation and job creation in Central Florida.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Public Safety Update: Neighborhood Watch Unit of OPD Receives National Night Out Cup
Neighborhood Happenings: Free 2011 Income Tax Preparation, Community Connections Workshop, Maintaining Active and Productive Association Committees
Strengthen Orlando Update: Buy Local Orlando Mobile App 
Green Works Update: NBA All-Star Recycling Event
Council Update
Did You Know?
Mayor in the Community
Events

This week, The Wall that Heals, a traveling half-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, has been on display at Lake Eola Park on the corner of East Robinson Street and North Eola Drive. Brought to Orlando by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund and the City of Orlando, the Wall the Heals features a mobile museum for visitors to tour and includes pictures and stories of some of the men and women who served in the Vietnam War.

On Saturday, January 21, at 11 a.m., the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund and the City will hold a Call for Photos at the replica. The Call for Photos is a national campaign to locate photos for each of the 58,272 service members memorialized on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington.

I invite Central Florida residents to visit The Wall that Heals to remember loved ones, share their experiences with others and learn more about the Vietnam War era. Families and friends of soldiers whose names are on the wall are encouraged to bring their photos so that they can be scanned and contributed to The Education Center at The Wall in Washington, D.C. The exhibit will be on display through Sunday, January 22.

This is a wonderful opportunity for our City to remember the soldiers of the Vietnam War and to keep their stories alive.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Neighborhood Happenings: Community Connections Workshop, Stay Informed - Lake Alerts, National Register of Historic Places Additions
Strengthen Orlando Update: Buy Local Orlando Mobile App 
Green Works Update: NBA All-Star Recycling Event
Council Update
Did You Know?
Mayor in the Community
Events

I am pleased to join my Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission to invite you and your family to participate in the variety of events celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. King. This important holiday honors a great American who brought hope and healing to America during a time of great turmoil. A remarkable orator, Dr. King inspired America and peacefully changed our nation.

This weekend, our community will celebrate the holiday with signature events like Martin Luther King Parade, the candlelight vigil and interfaith service, and the “Pappy” Kennedy prayer breakfast. This holiday also gives us a chance to serve others by volunteering in our community with the Parramore Volunteer Day and the Plant Seedlings for Civil Rights event on Monday. For a complete calendar of Martin Luther King activities throughout Orlando, visit mlkorlando.com. I hope you'll join us as we come together to honor Dr. King's ideals of equality, justice, freedom, peace and harmony for all men.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Neighborhood Happenings: Community Connections Workshop, Defining Your Association, Neighborhood Leadership Tip
Strengthen Orlando Update: Buy Local Orlando Mobile App 
Green Works Update: NBA All-Star Recycling Event
Council Update
Did You Know?
Mayor in the Community
Events

When I became Mayor in 2003, I had a bold vision for Downtown. I asked our residents to envision a Downtown that has restaurants and retail, vibrant entertainment venues and professional sports drawing in citizens from not just our City, but from all over the state and even the country. Since then we have worked together as a community to make strategic investments in business, development and amenities, making Orlando the exciting, urban City it is today.

These investments in Downtown continue to pay off. The NBA All-Star weekend in February will be much more than a sports and entertainment experience for our residents and visitors. It will bring additional economic impacts to Downtown Orlando. The past three All-Star weekends generated an estimated $80 to $100 million for each city. In Orlando, we expect similar numbers, with tens of thousands of attendees staying in our hotels, eating at our restaurants, shopping at our retailers and enjoying everything Orlando has to offer.

Key to attracting the NBA All-Star weekend was the City's development of the world-class Amway Center, which will host most of the events. The Center has become a vital part of Orlando's economic recovery, from the jobs provided during construction, to the opening of new restaurants and other businesses throughout Downtown. With the All-Star events, the Amway Center will continue to be a powerful economic driver for countless local businesses.

The City is pleased to host this international event and give our local businesses and entrepreneurs "an assist" to ensure the NBA All-Star weekend is a "slam dunk" for our economy.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Community Venues Update: Creative Village Update, Levy Restaurants Culinary Workshop
Neighborhood Happenings: Community Connections Workshop, Neighborhood Leadership Tip
Strengthen Orlando Update: Buy Local Orlando Mobile App available on iTunes
Green Works Update: Save the Date for the NBA All-Star 2012 Recycling Event, 2012 MLK Plant Seedlings for civil Rights
Did You Know?
Mayor in the Community
Events

Happy Holidays!

Amid the hustle and bustle of shopping, parties and decorations, this time of year offers us a chance to refocus on what is really important in life - like spending time with friends and family and giving to others.

This Christmas season many of our Central Florida neighbors are in need. I encourage you to do what you can to make someone else's holiday a little brighter. As you gather with your family and friends, I also encourage you to remember those who are not with their friends and loved ones because they are serving our country abroad.

On behalf of the City of Orlando I wish a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and a New Year filled with many blessings.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Green Works Orlando: Christmas Tree Disposal
Events

I am often moved by the generosity of our residents and their willingness to help those in need. Our City's culture of caring and service is one of its greatest strengths.

As we enjoy another holiday season filled with the hustle and bustle of shopping, parties and decorations, I want to remind everybody that the holidays are also a great time to help those less fortunate. Many of our Central Florida neighbors are in need this year. In the spirit of the season, we are launching ORLANDO SHARES, a community campaign to encourage every resident and business to do what they can to make someone else's holiday a little brighter. Here are a few ways to show that ORLANDO SHARES:

Volunteer at a local non-profit - Strengthen Orlando, Heart of Florida United Way.

Organize a food or toy drive at your office, school or place of worship - Second Harvest Food Bank.

Think and buy local when doing your holiday shopping - Buy Local Orlando, City of Orlando Main Street Program.

Share your skills with those needing help with money management and/or job readiness - Jobs Partnership of Florida, Goodwill of Central Florida.

Donate to your favorite charity providing services to those in need - Strengthen Orlando, Heart of Florida United Way.

Adopt a local family in need - Heart of Florida United Way.

In the spirit of the season, I encourage you to do what you can to make someone else's holiday a little brighter.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Community Venues Update: Levy Restaurants Culinary Workshop
Public Safety Update: Neighborhood Watch Block Captain of the Year Award, OPD Online Crime Reporting
Neighborhood Happenings: Community Connections Workshop, 2012 Neighborhood and Community Summit Workshop Topics
Strengthen Orlando Update: Buy Local Orlando Mobile App available on iTunes
Green Works Update: Holiday Shopping and What to Do with Those Boxes
Did You Know?
Mayor in the Community
Events

The holiday season is officially here, and I invite you to kick-off this joyous time at tonight's Holiday Lights Orlando event. Holiday Lights Orlando will feature Trinity Downtown Evangelical Lutheran Church and School's annual Christmas special and show: The Gift.

The celebration also includes a musical performance from a choir of nearly 100 voices, the official lighting of a majestic 40-foot Norwegian spruce Christmas tree, the lighting of a menorah and an outdoor viewing of "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" with Jim Carrey. The event is free and will take place at the Disney Amphitheater at Lake Eola Park from 4 to 10 p.m.

In the spirit of holiday giving, the City of Orlando and Trinity Downtown have partnered with IDignity Inc to encourage our residents to help those in need this holiday season. During The Gift stage production, a collection of donations will be taken to benefit IDignity Inc. A portion of the proceeds from vendors and food concessions will also be given.

IDignity Inc. was created to help the disadvantaged in Central Florida overcome the difficulties of obtaining the personal identification that is crucial to enabling them to become self-sufficient. IDignity Inc. hosts monthly events to provide assistance in receiving Florida ID cards and licenses, birth certificates, Social Security cards and other documents with assistance from legal counsel.

With a spectacular tree, music and family fun, there's no better way to get in the holiday spirit. Hope to see you tonight at Holiday Lights Orlando.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Community Venues Update: Levy Restaurants Culinary Workshop
Neighborhood Happenings: Community Connections Workshop, Building Solid Foundations for Your Neighborhood Organization
Strengthen Orlando Update: Central Florida Legislative Delegation, Orlando Cares Launches Two Additional Initiative, Orlando Main Street Holiday Events, Buy Local Orlando Mobile App
Did You Know?
Mayor in the Community
Events

The Thanksgiving holiday is a time to gather with family and friends and give thanks for the blessings and freedoms we enjoy every day. I am thankful for my loving family. I'm thankful for this community and the many accomplishments we have made together. I'm also thankful for our City employees who work hard every day to provide our residents with superior services. I hope you have some time this holiday to reflect on the reasons you have to be thankful.

For the Thanksgiving holiday, City offices will be closed on Thursday, November 24, and Friday, November 25. Residential garbage and recycle collection will occur as scheduled except on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 24. Residents whose collection falls on Thanksgiving Day will receive service on their next scheduled pick up day.

If you are cooking this Thanksgiving, our Wastewater Division reminds you to collect your cooled oil in a shatter proof container and bring it to City Hall on Tuesday, November 29, from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. to have it recycled. Pouring oil and grease down the drain is the leading cause of sewer backups in homes. Recycling your oil helps prevent problems in your home and the City's sewer system.

I wish you and your family a safe and happy Thanksgiving.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Community Venues Update: Levy Restaurants Culinary Workshop
Public Safety Update: So You Want to Fry a Turkey
Neighborhood Happenings: Need a Speaker for Your Neighborhood Organizaton Meeting, How City Neighborhoods are Spreading Holiday Cheer, Graffiti Hotline
Strengthen Orlando Update: Small Business Saturday, Orlando Main Street Holiday Events, Buy Local Orlando Mobile App
Green Works Orlando Update: Used Cooking Oil Collection
Did You Know?
Mayor in the Community
Events

This weekend, we welcome Florida A&M University and Bethune-Cookman University fans to the City of Orlando for the Florida Classic. This in-state rivalry between football teams, marching bands and fans makes for an exciting atmosphere at the Florida Citrus Bowl. Outside the stadium, students, alumni and fans tailgate in a weekend-long celebration.

Once again, this game promises to be exciting. Bethune-Cookman and Florida A&M come to the Florida Classic with identical 7-3 records for this season. The two universities' marching bands will also provide spectators with an exciting half-time show that has become a legendary part of the Florida Classic.

In addition to the action at the Citrus Bowl on Saturday, the Battle of the Bands takes place tonight at the Amway Center featuring the best high school bands from across the nation. Also tonight, the Classic Greek Step Competition at the Bob Carr features sororities and fraternities competing in a dance tradition.

All these events bring people from across the state to Orlando. These fans have made the Florida Classic a great tradition since it moved here in 1997. This year, organizers expect the Florida Classic's one millionth fan to walk through the gates of the Citrus Bowl. In addition to the economic benefits to our City, this football game brings people together and creates memories. Through the years, the Florida Classic has become a part of Orlando's character. I wish the fans from both universities a wonderful weekend of college football.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Community Venues Update: City of Orlando Welcomes Home the Orlando Solar Bears
Neighborhood Happenings: Bryn Mawr Neighbors Making the Holidays More Joyus, 11th Edition of Robert's Rules of Order, Tips for a Productive Association Meeting
Strengthen Orlando Update: Small Business Saturday, Buy Local Orlando Mobile App
Green Works Orlando Update: Used Cooking Oil Collection
Did You Know?
Mayor in the Community
Events

Tomorrow, the City of Orlando and the Mayor's Veterans Advisory Council are hosting the Orlando Veterans Day Parade to honor the courageous men and women of our armed forces. The parade will take place on Saturday, November 12, at 11 a.m. in Downtown Orlando. The City's Veterans Day Parade offers a unique and patriotic opportunity for the Central Florida community to honor our men and women in the armed forces.

The parade includes: men and women from more than 150 Central Florida veterans organizations, active duty military, high school marching bands and JROTCs and floats that were featured in the Gasparilla parade in Tampa. This year's grand marshal is Michael Waldrop. Mr. Waldrop was called back to active duty from the Inactive Ready Reserves to serve with Oregon's 41st Brigade Combat Team in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. He commanded an Afghanistan National Army Rifle Company comprising of 60 foreign soldiers. He was wounded in battle in July of 2006 and is a recipient of the Purple Heart and Bronze Star of Valor. Mr. Waldrop is also co-founder of the Camaraderie Foundation, a non-profit which serves military families and veterans in providing private, professional counseling assistance.

If you have never attended our Veterans Day Parade, I encourage you to come out and support our veterans. It's not only an exciting event, but it also means a tremendous amount for our veterans to see the community's support.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Neighborhood Happenings: Community Connections Workshop: Leadership Training, Training
Strengthen Orlando Update: Sunrail Forum for Disadvantaged and Minority Businesses, Buy Local Orlando Mobile App
Green Works Orlando Update: Used Cooking Oil Collection
Did You Know?: Tennis Tournament, Orlando Food Drive
Mayor in the Community
Events

This year, we are celebrating Leu Gardens' 50th birthday by giving guests free daytime admission on their birthday. This Monday, November 7, at 10 a.m. we are celebrating Leu Garden's 50th birthday with a special ceremony and free admission for everyone from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Festivities include a tree dedication by the rose garden, free tree seedlings giveaway (while supplies last) and a free story time event for children five and under.
The gardens were started by Harry and Mary Jane Leu, who owned the property from 1936 until they deeded it to the City in 1961. The two traveled extensively and brought home many plants for their grounds, including 240 varieties of camellias. After 50 years, their gardens have become a popular oasis for visitors and residents to enjoy.
I invite you to Leu Gardens on Monday for this special occasion. For more information, please visit LeuGardens.org or call 407.246.2620.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Community Venues Update: Expansion Membership Approved for Orlando, New Webcam
Neighborhood Happenings: Community Connections Workshop: Leadership Training, City Council Meeting Highlights Available on CityofOrlando.net, Orange County UF/Cooperative Extension Educational Opportunities
Strengthen Orlando Update
Green Works Orlando Update: Trees for Tracks 
Redistricting Update
Did You Know?
Events

This Monday, I delivered my annual State of Downtown Address. If you weren't able to make it to the event, you can watch it by clicking here.

The State of Downtown is my opportunity to give our community a progress report on our collective effort to reshape and revitalize Central Florida's urban core. This year's speech was inspired by the book, "For the Love of Cities" by Peter Kageyama. The book is based on the idea that cities (and downtowns) that bring about a greater emotional connection with their residents benefit both socially and economically.

Earlier this month, 150 residents participated in a workshop aimed at creating a simple, organic movement to make people more aware of why they choose to live in Orlando. Here's a sample of the participants" reasons for why they love Orlando:

"The familiar faces"
"Neighborhood parks"
"Local blogs"
"I met creative people here"
"All the things to do Downtown"
"That I can make an impact"

You can get involved in the "Why I Love Orlando" effort by visiting the group's Facebook Page. See the comments, photos and videos that Orlando residents have posted about why they love Orlando and add your own.
I hope you remain as excited and optimistic as I am about the future of our City and the future of Downtown Orlando.

.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Community Venues Update: New Webcam
Neighborhood Happenings: Celebrate Week of the Family, Community Connections Workshop: Leadership Training, New Neighborhood Association, Water Conservation
Strengthen Orlando Update: Central Florida Black Business Day
Green Works Orlando Update: Downtown Recreation Complex Beautification, Trees for Tracks 
Redistricting Update
Did You Know?
Mayor in the Community
Events

It's easy to see by all the pink ribbons and shirts people are wearing that it's Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I am proud that our community has embraced this cause and that there are so many opportunities for people to show their support.

This past Saturday, I joined with City Chief Financial Officer Rebecca Sutton, a breast cancer survivor, and City of Orlando employees to race in the 2011 Orlando International Dragon Boat Festival.

The one-day festival raised more than $55,000 for the fight against breast cancer and benefits the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center Orlando and Women Playing for T.I.M.E. The City alone raised $30,000. I want to congratulate the City of Orlando Magic Dragons 2 for winning Division D and the City of Orlando SWAT team, joined by teenagers from the Parramore Kidz Zone, who won the Public Service Cup and also placed second in the open division finals.

I also want to remind everyone that the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk presented by Siemens is on Saturday, October 29, at Lake Eola Park in Downtown Orlando. Individuals and teams can still register and help support the fight against breast cancer by signing up online at OrlandoStrides.com.

I want to thank all of the City teams and staff that are participating in Breast Cancer Awareness events this month, and I thank all of our residents for their support of this worthwhile cause.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Public Safety Update: Grant for School Security
Neighborhood Happenings: Social Media: Tools for Enhancing Neighborhood Communication and Involvement
Green Works Orlando Update: Florida Water Festival
City Council Update
Redistricting Update
Did You Know?
Mayor in the Community
Events

On Monday, October 24, you are invited to join me and the Downtown Orlando Partnership for the annual State of Downtown Address. I'm excited about this year's event because I will be joined by author and economic development consultant, Peter Kageyama, who will share with us his provocative ideas on what makes a city loveable.

This year marked the groundbreaking of the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, the one-year anniversary of the Amway Center and the 50th anniversary of the Downtown Orlando Partnership. Our Downtown has grown and prospered because of many individuals and groups in our community that have worked together to craft a shared vision for our region's urban core. Harvesting this creative energy of our residents is one of the themes of my State of the Downtown address. Peter Kageyama, author of “For the Love of Cities” and co-founder of the Creative Cities Summit, feels that the “love affair between people and their places” makes dynamic change in the community. Peter will share with us what he calls “bottom up” community development and how remarkable people can impact their city.

So join me on Monday, October 24, at 11:15 a.m. in the Amway Center for an invigorating discussion of what it means to “love” your City. For ticket information, visit CityofOrlando.net or DowntownOrlandoPartnership.com.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Public Safety Update: Occupy Orlando 
Neighborhood Happenings: Bringing Neighbors Together with Neighborhood Projects, Celebrate Week of the Family, Is Your Association Using Facebook?
Green Works Orlando Update: Walgreens Electric Vehicle Charging Station, Florida Water Festival
Redistricting Update
Did You Know?
Mayor in the Community
Events

The colors of fall are usually the red, orange and yellow of falling leaves. This October, the color is pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We display pink ribbons on our lapels or wear pink to support those courageously fighting breast cancer and to honor the lives lost to this devastating disease.

While considerable progress has been made in the fight against breast cancer, breast cancer is the second most common kind of cancer and the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women in the United States. This year alone, more than 209,000 Americans will be diagnosed with breast cancer.

During the month of October, the City of Orlando is participating in numerous events to help raise awareness about the importance of early detection and research for breast cancer. These include Orlando Health's Hope Hike, the Orlando Dragon Boat Festival for Women Playing for T.I.M.E, the UKNIGHT in PINK campaign and the American Cancer Society's Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk.

I encourage all of Orlando to support these activities that promote what women can do to prevent and control breast cancer.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Public Safety: Good Citizenship Award
Neighborhood Happenings: Community Connections Workshop, Neighborhood Histories, Stay in Touch with the City of Orlando
Strengthen Orlando Update: New Buy Local Orlando App Coming Soon
Green Works Update
Council Update
Redistricting Update
Did You Know?
Mayor in the Community
Events

This week marks the one year anniversary of the opening of the Amway Center.
The facility hosted more than 200 events and was visited by more than 1.4 million people in its inaugural year. The Amway Center hosted everything from the biggest names in pop music, to sporting events and family shows, while also playing host to numerous free community events, rented private meeting space and several conferences.

Take a look at some fun facts from the Amway Center's first year:

   Lady Gaga was our highest grossing show at $1,460,286
   Bon Jovi had the highest attendance at 16,084
   Taylor Swift had the highest merchandise sales at $197,250
   The Orlando Magic had 816,421 fans cheering at their games
   The Amway Center was recognized by the International Development Council in their Public/Private award category
   More than 78,000 hot dogs have been sold or enough to sell out four Magic games

As we said at the opening event a year ago, the Amway Center is also about much more than just sports and entertainment. The Amway Center has helped create jobs, strengthen downtown's small businesses and continue the revitalization of Downtown Orlando and the Parramore neighborhood.
Congratulations to the Amway Center for a great first year and many more to come.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Public Safety: It Takes Courage Campaign
Neighborhood Happenings: Orlando International Airport's 30th Anniversary, UCF College of Medicine Community Open House, Community Connections Workshop, Selecting New Association Officers, Funding for Your Crime Prevention Projects
Strengthen Orlando Update: BLUEPRINT Employment Office Celebration, New Buy Local Orlando App Coming Soon
Redistricting Update
Did You Know?
Mayor in the Community
Events

One of the things I love about Orlando is the many parks we have. From a few acres of shade tucked into a neighborhood to our community gathering places like Lake Eola Park, public spaces allow us to reflect, play and connect with our neighbors. To recognize these places that add so much beauty to our City, we are celebrating National Public Lands Day on Saturday, September 24, at Bill Frederick Park.

Come enjoy special activities and demonstrations including fishing, nature, art projects, hiking, disc golf and boating. There will be giveaways including fishing rods and reels (to the first 250 kids), trees and native plants. Don't miss the animal farm tours with horses, goats and other animals. The feature attraction this year is the Nature Connect Trail, a quarter mile of art, music and climbing built by volunteers. Admission is free for this special festival.

This fun-filled event takes place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., so come out and enjoy the festivities. Bill Frederick Part at Turkey Lake is located at 3401 South Hiawassee Road.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Public Safety: OFD Awards, Delaney Park Burglaries
Neighborhood Happenings: Sign Up for Lake Alert, Spring Lake Manor Neighborhood Association hosts Mayor Buddy Dyer, Orlando International Airport's 30th Anniversary Celebration
Strengthen Orlando Update
City Council Update
Redistricting Update
Did You Know?
Mayor in the Community
Events

Thursday night, the City kicked off Hispanic Heritage Month with a culture-filled celebration featuring the sights and sounds of Brazilian heritage at City Hall.

Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15 through October 15, coincides with the anniversary of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua declaring their independence in 1821 as well as the independence days of Mexico, Chile and Belize. Congress established the month to celebrate the significant contributions of our citizens of Hispanic heritage.

In Orlando, more than 25 percent of our population is Hispanic according to the new 2010 census. I believe our City's diversity is one of our greatest strengths and the contributions of our Hispanic community will only continue to fuel our economy and add to the cultural richness of Orlando.

The City recognizes the important role our Hispanic community plays and continues to reach out to Hispanic residents through our Hispanic Office of Local Assistance (HOLA). Located at 595 North Primrose Drive, the HOLA Office provides Hispanic residents with information about our community and services, as well as access to computers. Thanks to our great HOLA staff, advisory committee and volunteers, we have served more than 75,000 residents and continue to create new partnerships. The City also has a Spanish version of CityofOrlando.net, which includes a weekly edition of City News.

Last night's event showcased art and performances and was a great way to appreciate the culture of our Hispanic community and to kick off Hispanic Heritage Month.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Neighborhood Happenings: Crime Prevention Funding Available for Neighborhood Organizations, Graffiti Removal, Recruiting and Keeping Volunteers
Green Works Orlando Update: Stormwater Management Workshop, National Public Lands Day 
City Council Update
Redistricting Update
Mayor in the Community
Events

Ten years ago, our nation was shocked and saddened by the attack on New York City and Washington, D.C. The people that died that day included civilians, military personnel, fire fighters and law enforcement officers.

To pay tribute to those who lost their lives during the terrorist attacks of 2001, Orlando Police Chief Paul Rooney and Orlando Fire Chief John Miller will join me for a September 11 Memorial Ceremony on Sunday, September 11, at 6 p.m., at the Lake Eola Park amphitheater. Parking is available at the Orange County Library garage located at 112 East Central Boulevard.

I invite you to attend this ceremony or take a moment of silence during the day to honor everyone who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.

Sincerely,
Buddy Dyer
Mayor

Also in this weeks City News: 
Neighborhood Happenings: Community Connections Workshop, 2012 Funding for Neighborhood Projects, Neighborhood Safety Fair, Best Practices
Strengthen Orlando Update: Buy Local Orlando Highlight
Green Works Orlando Update: National Public Lands Day, Stormwater Management Workshop, Volunteers Needed for the Florida Coastal Cleanup,
Redistricting Update
Did You Know?
Mayor in the Community
Events