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Date: 7/18/2024
Subject: LWVOC Newsletter & Events
From: Lisa K Adkins


News & Views from LWVOC President, Rev. Kathy Schmitz
Just as a stormy hurricane season has many unsung heroes, so too does a tumultuous election season. In a hurricane, we might think of the municipal workers who keep our roads clear, our lights on, and shelters ready. In an election, we might think of our poll workers who keep our precincts open, our voting booths accessible, and our ballots secure.

However you cast your ballot, take a moment to reflect on the marvel of our system and the many people who make it work. If you vote in person, whether at one of our Adopt-A-Precinct (AAP) sites or elsewhere, those staffing the location deserve our kindness and our thanks. Whether volunteer or paid, they are putting in a 12-14 hour day during which they may not leave the precinct they serve. This is on top of previously having attended a mandatory training session before each election.

Just like in a storm, these often-unsung heroes require our support. Just as a shelter needs those who bring supplies, our poll workers need nourishment to make it through the day. While we can all offer our respect and gratitude, League members are encouraged to visit our Volunteering Opportunities and use the simple sign up to help Feed Our Precincts (be sure to scroll down, there are six of them.)

Working together, we can come through this stormy and tumultuous time with both our community and our democracy safe and strong.
Yours in Service,
Kathy

Register for AUG 14 Hot Topics

Since we announced this program last week, an attempted assassination on former President (and candidate) Donald Trump took place.  The troubling public discourse since the attempt has not only U.S. citizens on edge but also the world.  Next month's Hot Topics panel will have MUCH to discuss as all of us seek to have "Civil Discourse, Not Civil War."

 
The moderator is Teresa Jacobs, chair of the Orange County Public School Board. Panelists include former U.S. Rep. Stephanie Murphy, who served Florida’s 7th congressional district for six years; Dick Batchelor, political consultant and author of “Building Bridges in Toxic Political Times”; Dr. Joel Hunter, chair of The Pledge of Central Florida campaign; and Dr. Haley Winston, director of the UCF offices of Civil Discourse and Engagement and Public Policy Events within the Ginsburg Center for Inclusion and Community Engagement. Extended biographies are available on the Hot Topics webpage.
 
Read the full press release HERE. Spaces are already filling up; we know it's going to be another highly attended event, especially with the esteemed panel that we have invited.  Don't delay!  Members, sign into our system first to receive your discount and if you haven't joined yet but want a discount, do that first HERE and then reserve your spot for the Aug 14 Hot Topics!  Everyone welcome!
 
BE VOTE READY
July 22 is the last day to register for the Aug. 20 primary!  
 
Vote-by-Mail Ballot Request deadline is Aug. 8 for primary!
www.vote411.org is LIVE!  It's a "one-stop-shop" for election related information and provides nonpartisan information to the public with both general and state-specific information.  Find out:
  • What's on your ballot
  • Candidate Info
  • Your voter status
  • Registration links
  • Upcoming debates & more
UPCOMING EVENTS
July 24, noon-1pm, Zoom Event
Gun Violence Prevention Comm. Mtg
Our speaker will be Laura Buck, the Be SMART lead from Central FL Moms. She will train people in Be SMART so we can table at events together to give out Gun Locks.
For ADMISSION to meeting, email: lcoffin@bellsouth.net
Aug 5, 7-8:15pm
Dist. 5 Candidate Forum, Orange County Commissioners
Invited candidates include: Joy Goff-Marcil, Steven Leary, Joel Montilla and Kelly Semrad
Westminster WP, 1111 S. Lakemont Ave
Doors open at 6:30pm
The DEIA Committee would like you to join us in celebrating members and voters with disabilities by honoring their inherent dignity and inalienable rights, promoting their visibility, experiences, struggles, and by applauding their achievements. Disability Pride is celebrated in July because the Americans with Disabilities Act  (ADA) was passed on July 26, 1990
The (ADA) protects people with disabilities from discrimination including access to voting, employment, transportation, public accommodations,  communications, and in relation to entry to state and local government services.
From the American Bar Association, more about Disability Pride Month here.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Special Alert!  The Voter Services team is fielding multiple requests for Leaguers to "table" at community events with voting information. The VS (Voter Services) team will TRAIN you and it's easy to share a passion we all have...educating voters!  Click on the committee link above or reach out to our Co-Chairs if you'd like to learn more:  Kathy Sheerin or Gina Hall 
YOU CAN HELP!  Members, be sure you're logged into the system and visit our site page for ALL the available openings.
Adopt-a-Precinct League volunteers spend LONG hours staffing precincts on election day and it's not convenient for them to dash out to grab food.  Instead, we have another team (hopefully, you'll be a member of it) that brings in snacks, drinks, and meals for them.  Here's the precincts that we're staffing on AUG 20.  Sign up today:
Contact Anne Coppenhaver ccoppenhaver@me.com if you have questions.
Lily Grund
Kentyn Morgan
Joe Falocco
Robert Wright – Ida B. Wells Member
Shelley Lauten – Susan B. Anthony Member
Fred Lauten - Susan B. Anthony Member
 
Share this newsletter and invite your family and social circles to JOIN the League of Women Voters of Orange County!
For your very generous donation to the LWVOC Fund:
 
Michele R. Levy
 
Visit our Donor page to see the many different ways you can support the League of Women Voters of Orange County.

Sponsors are vital to our work to empower voters by providing timely information for the benefit of non-partisan civic engagement in our community.

To further explore how becoming a Hot Topics Sponsor can align with your business goals, please contact LWVOC Vice President, Lee Rambeau Kemp HERE

A range of sponsorship levels are available.

Why Give?  Your financial support fuels our mission to educate, empower, and advocate for informed and active voters. As we strive to build a democracy that works for everyone, your donation becomes a catalyst for positive change. Your gift supports:

Voter Empowerment: We are dedicated to providing unbiased and comprehensive information to voters. Your donation bolsters information and education initiatives, allowing voters to make more informed choices at the ballot box.

Civic Engagement Programs: Our community outreach and educational programs encourage active participation in civic life. Your support helps organize events and community forums that foster dialogue and engagement among community members.

Advocating for Democracy: The League of Women Voters of Orange County is a relentless advocate for policies that enhance democracy and protect the rights of all citizens. Your gift adds your voice as an advocate for positive change.

Accessible Elections: We work tirelessly to ensure that elections are accessible to all citizens. Your gift helps eliminate barriers to voting and promotes fair and inclusive elections.

 Ways You Can Make a Difference

One-Time Gift: A single gift has a significant impact on our programs and initiatives.

Sustaining Gift: Join our community of sustaining donors by making a monthly, quarterly or annual commitment to support our goal for a vibrant democracy.

Corporate  or Individual Sponsorship: Partner with us to promote social responsibility and contribute to the betterment of our community.
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