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January 2025

Vol. 2 Issue 2

County News

Seminole County Welcomes Thousands for ECNL Soccer Tournaments

Seminole County once again took center stage, hosting the annual Elite Clubs National League (ECNL) Girls and Boys Soccer Tournaments across two weekends this month at Sylvan Lake Park and the Seminole Soccer Complex. These premier events brought over 23,000 players, coaches, and visitors to the area, filling more than 3,800 hotel rooms and generating a direct economic impact of over $5.2 million for the County.


With more than 300 elite-level teams competing, Seminole County showcased its top-tier sports venues and their convenient access to hotels, restaurants, and attractions. ECNL has chosen Seminole County as a host location since 2010, thanks to its exceptional facilities and commitment to providing a first-class tournament experience.


The departments of Economic Development and Tourism, and Parks and Recreation organized these tournaments in partnership with the Greater Orlando Sports Commission, Seminole Soccer Complex, and local hospitality partners.

Be Prepared for Wildfire Season with Alert Seminole

Wildfire season in Florida typically runs from January through May, with peak activity occurring during the dry spring months. As temperatures rise and rainfall becomes scarce, it’s crucial to stay informed and prepared to protect your family and property.

Alert Seminole, the County's emergency notification system, is an essential tool that can help families react quickly in the event of a wildfire or other emergencies. By signing up for Alert Seminole, residents can receive real-time alerts via phone, text, or email about evacuation orders, road closures, and other critical safety information.

In addition to staying connected through Alert Seminole, here are some tips to prepare for wildfire season:

  • Create a family evacuation plan: Identify multiple escape routes from your home and community. Practice the plan with your family to ensure everyone knows what to do.
  • Prepare an emergency kit: Include essential items such as water, non-perishable food, medications, important documents, and first-aid supplies.
  • Defend your property: Maintain a defensible space around your home by clearing debris, trimming trees, and removing leaves and pine needles from gutters and roofs.
  • Stay informed: Monitor weather conditions, fire advisories, and local news updates to stay ahead of potential threats.
Alert Seminole Signup

Hound Around Town: Making a Difference for Shelter Dogs

Seminole County Animal Services' Hound Around Town program gives community members a chance to enrich the lives of shelter dogs.


For some pets, the wait for adoption can be stressful in a kennel. The Hound Around Town program lets dogs escape the shelter for an afternoon, providing exercise, mental stimulation, and socialization to help prepare them for their forever homes.


After a brief training, volunteers can take a dog on outings like hiking trails, visiting outdoor cafés, or even spending time at their office.

These experiences not only help dogs adjust to everyday life but also improve their chances of adoption. The program runs Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., offering a rewarding way to make a difference for shelter pets.

“Hound Around Town” with Seminole County Animal Services
More Info
Resident at Grand Living Park Exploring a display full of library books

Fire Department Visits WSHS

The Seminole County Fire Department visited Winter Springs High School this month to recruit future firefighters from the community, offering students a glimpse into a rewarding career after graduation. Students learned about fire safety, career opportunities, and the specialized training required to become a firefighter.

Learn More
4H Students working on drawing posters

Hooked on Crochet 

Seminole County Libraries is proud to host the Crochet Club of Lake Mary every Tuesday, where crocheters of all skill levels are invited to grab their hooks and join the Northwest Branch at 5 p.m. to mix, mingle, and trade tips.


Interested attendees are encouraged to start a new project or catch up on their “stitches.” New and experienced crocheters are welcome.

Learn More

Around the County

Create a Hologram

Pre-teens are invited to sharpen their STEM skills and learn how to use clear plastic to make a super-cool optical illusion: their very own 3D holographic image. Exclusively for pre-teens, ages 8-12. Registration is required.


Wednesday, January 29, 6:30–7:30 p.m.

West Branch, 245 N. Hunt Club Blvd., Longwood

Register Now
person holding a mushroom over a clear container
kid looking through a telescope at night

Stargazing

Set your sights on the stars when you join the Parks and Trails team for an evening of stargazing. In partnership with the Emil Buehler Planetarium at Seminole State College, attendees can enjoy guided constellation laser tours and telescopic views to view the stars. Children must be 9 or older and accompanied by an adult.


Saturday, February 1, 7–9 p.m.

Lake Harney Wilderness Area,
2395 Osceola Fish Camp Road, Geneva

Cost: $5 per person

Register Now

Battle at Camp Monroe

Join the Museum of Seminole County History and the Sanford Museum for a living history day commemorating the battle which led to the U.S. settlement in what became known as Sanford. Attendees will be able enjoy historic demonstrations, tour the campus of U.S. soldiers and Seminoles, talk to living historians, and more.


School Day: Friday, February 7, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Public Day: Saturday, February 8, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.


Sanford Museum, 520 E. First St., Sanford

Learn More
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Seminole County Government, 1101 East 1st Street, Sanford, Fl 32771, United States



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