 | Yesterday's great turnout for the last Hot Topics of 2025 was a testament to the community's concerns about tourism dollars and how they're distributed. Each panelist had much to contribute with helping us understand the complexities of TDT (Tourism Dollars Taxes) as well as offering up options moving forward. From reporter Mike Valente's News 6 report:
“I see hope based on the fact that we were able to get together and have this lively conversation: the hottest topic of all,” Smith said. [FL Sen. Carlos G. Smith]
Smith said he has reintroduced a bill in Tallahassee that would require the tourism industry to match every public TDT dollar invested in destination marketing.
Santos [Frank Santos, Rosen Hotels & Resorts CEO] said he does not think any changes should be made to TDT. Instead, he has proposed a tourist transportation tax (TTT) that would be dedicated to funding transportation needs.
“My plan is to add additional capacity where there is capacity and charge our visitors, not our residents, for paying for those services that we need,” Santos said.
Stay tuned for a full RECAP of the program including an edited video version you can view on our YouTube channel, a photo album, review, and more. | | We were honored to have the Color Guard, presented by the guardsmen of the American Legion, Post 286, led by Capt. Anthony Cruz at the event as shown above left. Shown above right: moderator LaToya Dennis, Frank Santos, Co-Pres. Jane Hursh, FL Sen. Carlos G. Smith, Co-Pres. Kathy Schmitz, Jane Healy *photos courtesy Carol Wonsavage | |
*This is a members ONLY event.
What would it look like if everyone eligible to vote in Orange County was registered, stayed registered, and was able to vote when, where, and how it works for them—in under 30 minutes? The League of Women Voters of Orange County (LWVOC) is partnering with All Voting is Local (AVL) to launch a critical effort to define a comprehensive Pro-Voter Agenda for Orange County. We invite dedicated LWVOC members to join this foundational working session. |  | | The annual holiday Park Avenue Sip and Shop will be on December 11.
Come out and support the League by purchasing great gifts, books, clothing, home and fashion accessories. Each store will give a percentage of proceeds for the day to the LWVOC. Light refreshments served. Below left, Leaguers Sue Foreman, Lisa Adkins, Joan Erwin, & Melinda Wright with the gift bags from the shops.
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DEC 17, 6-9:00PM
at The Woman's Club of Winter Park.
Make plans to de-stress and party with your fellow Leaguers this holiday season.
Shown below l-r: VP Lee Rambeau Kemp and Membership Chair Pat Grierson at the 2023 party | | |
Leaguers, plan to join us as we make our voices heard at the capitol. Secure your spot today for 2026 Lobby Days. LWVFL hotel rates are valid through Dec. 20, 2025. Registrations done after Dec. 20 will be booked at the hotel's rate, pending room availability. And while you're at it, don't forget to sign-up today for the upcoming 2026 Lobby Days Bootcamp trainings. Register HERE.
| | | | "Student Philanthropy Week has begun! Now through 5 p.m. Friday, the Rollins College Democracy Project is raising funds to make voter registration more accessible on campus and pursue their passions to enhance the Rollins voter experience.
They’re working hard to reach their goals, but asked us to share with our members/supporters. Your gift today helps Rollins students dream bigger, achieve more, and make an even greater impact. Please use the link below to make your donation, every gift this week helps their organization compete for bonus support."
| | | | The League of Women Voters of UCF held their last GBM and reviewed recent election wins by female political leaders.
They have a few more events lined up before the end of the semester. Follow their journey and cheer on this vibrant next generation of League leaders by following their Instagram account @lwvucf
Of note, we noticed that when elected officials and candidates introduced themselves at Hot Topics, women far outnumbered the men yesterday at Hot Topics. Is the future already here? | | |  | |
CLICK below to view a short "how-to video" on our YouTube channel and start your volunteering era with the League.
Enjoy League EVENTS? Volunteers are always needed for upcoming gatherings. Contact Events Committee Chair Susan Sussman if you'd like to join them.
If you're interested in assisting at HOT TOPICS, reach out to our co-chairs: Karen Estrin or Diana Smith Technologically talented? Always welcome!
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*For voter registration tabling, you must have taken and passed the League voter registration test HERE.(ForLeaguers only-must be logged into system to connect)
Ongoing OBSERVER CORPS
Monthly observations of City Council Mtgs with reports back to League.
Record observations of Apopka City Council Meetings and submit for posting on LWVOC website; meetings are first Wednesday of each month at 1:30 p.m., third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. Contact Susan Adams for more info.
| | | | |  | | Shana Giroux
Meredith Fisher
Constance Brotzman
Linda Neal
Ayana Barrow
Courtney Burns
Jennifer Green Chan
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Plan to join us at our Sip and Shop, DEC 11, for an easy way to donate to LWVOC. The shops will donate a % of their afternoon's proceeds to our League.
Learn about the many different ways for you to $upport the LWVOC.
Visit our newly revamped Donate page for more information.
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Sponsors are vital to our work to empower voters by providing timely information for the benefit of non-partisan civic engagement in our community and we have a range of sponsorship levels available. To further explore how to become a sponsor, please contact LWVOC Vice President and Fund Development Chair Lee Rambeau Kemp HERE
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