FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact: Brie Turek (407) 246-3106
              Heather Allebaugh (407) 246-3423
              Maria Yabrudy, American Red Cross    
              (407) 256-4676

Mayor Dyer Calls Local Experts Together for 
Hazardous Weather Roundtable Discussion

WHAT: The recent Central Florida tornadoes, coupled with the upcoming National Weather Awareness Week February 11th – 17th, show once again the importance for residents and businesses to be prepared for unpredictable weather. 
To generate awareness and remind people about the risks of local hazardous weather, Mayor Buddy Dyer, Orlando’s Office of Emergency Management and the American Red Cross of Central Florida are hosting a roundtable discussion with more than 20 community organizations and agencies. 
The roundtable discussion will focus on each organization’s role in the emergency management process; from preparedness to response coordination to post-weather mitigation. 

Orlando residents are encouraged to participate in Hazardous Weather Awareness Week by developing and testing family plans and creating a disaster supplies kit. More information is available at www.cityoforlando.net and centralflorida.redcross.org. 

WHO: 
Mayor Buddy Dyer 
National Weather Service
Manny Soto, Orlando Emergency Manager 
Orlando Chamber of Commerce
Joel Haas, CEO American Red Cross 
Ramon Ojeda, Hispanic Chamber 
Danielle Courtenay, Orlando CVB, VP of Public Relations Second Harvest Food Bank
LYNX 
OUC 

Representatives from the following groups: 
Red Cross Inclusive Initiative
Orlando Citizens for Neighborhood Watch
Orlando Citizens for Emergency Response
Tri- County Volunteer Active in Disaster
Catholic Charities
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 
Mexican Consulate
British Consulate
Cuban American National Council, Inc.
AM South Bank
Central Florida Educator Credit Union
Mayor’s Veterans Advisory Council Leaders
Retired & Senior Volunteer Program RSVP
Senior Links
New Beginning 

WHEN: Monday, February 12, 2007
2 p.m. 

WHERE: City of Orlando Emergency Operations Center
110 Andes Avenue, Orlando (off of Lake Underhill Dr.) 

 

###