 | | Democracy defenders, Leaguers and our supporters, are in that temporary space of decompression after literal YEARS of election preparation. It's fortunate timing that this week we have been able to experience two events that have UPLIFTED our spirits and reminded us that the work we do is powerful and necessary, ensuring that our rights are held in the highest regard from those that we have chosen to govern us.
Although the topic is VERY serious, yesterday's Hot Topics--How Florida Can Reduce Gun Violence was inspiring, educational and hopeful. The panelists (along with special guests) gave us much needed insight about what is happening at the grassroots level with youth outreach in Orlando and Orange County in efforts to prevent violence and offer more positive "life maps". Look for our upcoming RECAP with a taped video of event as well as the HT Overtime presentation. We'll include resources to assist you in the "call to action" to support these groups' efforts. The next Hot Topics will be Jan. 8, 2025--details coming soon.
(Shown below L-R: Scott Randolph, Ruben Saldana, Dr. Shanta Barton-Stubbs, Patti Brigham, Abe Morris, Sheriff John Mina, LWVOC Pres. Rev. Kathy Schmitz) Photos-Carol Wonsavage
|  | | Orange County League members attended the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra performance with Grammy award-winning songwriter Aoife O'Donovan Nov. 12 at the Dr. Phillips Center -- Aoife performed her original work (All My Friends album) commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment lauding Carrie Chapman Catt and other suffragists (we dressed in black and white honoring them). Much appreciation to Lee Rambeau Kemp for organizing this event and Sue Foreman for photos. (Note that artist Aoife O'Donovan is shown photo right, 2nd step up from bottom) |
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DEC 6, 12-5pm, Sip & Shop, East Park Ave. in Winter Park, participating stores will donate 15% of the afternoon's proceeds to LWVOC; plan to complete your holiday shopping while giving back to the League!
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DEC 11, 6-9pm, LWVOC Holiday Party, an evening of jazz, wine, buffet and celebration at The Woman's Club of Winter Park
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Don't let your election signs go to waste. Bring them to a drop-off location to be recycled. The metal frames will be recycled locally, and the signs will be transported to NuCycle Energy in Plant City where they will be transformed to NuCycle's Enviro Fuelcubes.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
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Education is a trending hot topic for central Florida in 2025.
JOIN their Zoom meeting next week, NOV 19, noon-1pm to share your thoughts.
| | | MORE ELECTION DAY VOLUNTEERS | | GOTV--Get Out the Vote Success in Orange County!
Registered Voters: 836,940
Ballots Cast: 613,383
Voter Turnout: 73.29%
Florida reported the highest voter turnout in 30 years!
LWVOC poll workers were busy! | | | An important part of our Adopt-a-Precinct Program are those LWVOC members who serve in precincts outside the ones adopted by LWVOC. These volunteer poll workers are willing to go where needed by the Supervisor of Elections without the benefit of working with a team of League members or Feed Our Precincts support. For the General Election Eugene Stoccardo and Laura Bornfreund ventured out as Poll Deputies; Patrice Cherico was placed as Voting System Inspector; and Julia Carpenter joined forces with Linda Roberts to work as E-Poll Inspectors. Summarizing, our disseminated volunteers described their experience as a bit stressful initially and exhausting, but ultimately very rewarding as part of a team serving voters on the front lines of the democratic process. Overall, the feedback was positive - they loved it and would do it again. Many thanks for their contribution to the Orange County voters and LWVOC.
|  | | The Feed Our Precincts efforts began months ago. Over 40 League volunteers donated their time, their talents, and their funds in this election season, stretching over 5 elections since March 20 with run-offs, special election, and primary opportunities, preceding November 5. Hundreds of dollars, countless hours, and the willingness to be there at dawn and return after dusk marks their contribution.
Team leaders were instrumental in organizing those volunteers: Lelia Allen (Precinct 202), Betty Saulpaugh (Precinct 505), Patricia Martarano (Precinct 511), Lee Rambeau Kemp (Precinct 512), Barbara Granade (Precinct 512), Mary Diboye (Precinct 527), Elizabeth Bosserman (Precinct 527), Joan Erwin (Precinct 633), and Nancy Galyean (Precinct 633). These people were the link between plans on paper and execution of a smooth day.
Waiting in the wings, JoEllen Ross and Jeanette Lambert were on standby in case we had emergency needs on the 5th, but they were not called on this time.
Shown above top-bottom: Adrienne Katz Katz is one of the Feed our Precinct volunteers. She enlisted her family in the delivery of both beverages and pizza to Precinct 527’s poll workers. From left to right, daughter-in-law, Lisa Perrillo Katz; son, Larry Katz; poll deputy clerk, Paul Creighton, receiving supper; and League member, Adrienne with her husband Bill Katz. It was truly a family effort!
Bottom L: poll worker Kay Hudson, Susan Sussman delivery volunteer; right- pizza delivery volunteer Karin Grossman and Saudi Ellis (poll worker at Precinct 512) |  | | Carly Gonzalez
Jennifer Mayer
Jo Stewart
Renee Schneider
Joe Schneider
Edith DeCicco
Amy Weiss
Share this newsletter and invite your family and social circles to JOIN the League of Women Voters of Orange County!
|  | Dr. Robert and Mary Dipboye, Giving Society
Shannon E. St. John, generous gift to LWVOC Fund
Kathy Sheerin, Giving Society, "in thanks to the Voter Services Committee"
Ann H. Murrah, Giving Society
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. | |