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September 2025 |
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Vol. 2 Issue 18 |
County News |
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Celebrating Improvements to the Spring Hammock Preserve |
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From adventurous “Mud Walks” to peaceful nature hikes, Spring Hammock Preserve has long been a destination for outdoor exploration. Last week, Seminole County officials cut the ribbon on major upgrades to the Osprey Trailhead, featuring new boardwalks, a pavilion, ADA-accessible paths, and improved bridge crossings to enhance visitor access and safety.
Seminole County Commission Chairman Jay Zembower, Parks and Recreation Director Rick Durr, and School Board Members Abby Sanchez and Dr. Robin Dehlinger attended the ribbon cutting to highlight the improvements to the 1,500-acre preserve.
“You have people from all around this state, all around this country who have to travel to either national parks or far destinations to enjoy this,” said Chairman Zembower. “We have it right here in the center of this County.”
Located in the heart of Seminole County, the project reflects the County’s commitment to preserving green space for the community and was funded through the County’s One Cent Infrastructure Penny Sales Tax and state funding. |
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These improvements also support the beloved “Mud Walk” program for Seminole County Public Schools fifth graders, a fun and educational tradition that connects students with nature and inspires a lifelong appreciation for our local environment. |
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Sanford Courtyard Marks Phase II Grand Opening |
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Seminole County and Central Florida Home for Good (CFHG) proudly opened the doors to Sanford Courtyard Apartments and cut the ribbon to celebrate the completion of Phase II on Wednesday.
This project was funded through Seminole County’s Community Services HOME funds and the American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP), which are federal funds received from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the construction and/or rehabilitation of affordable housing.
"Affordable and attainable housing has the impact of changing the future landscape for Seminole County. That’s why it’s so important that we continue to invest in affordable housing, ensuring that residents across our County have access to safe, stable, and dignified housing," Seminole County Commission Vice Chair Andria Herr said at the ribbon-cutting.
CFHG was created to focus on building multi-family units to provide safe, affordable housing for local workers in need. They offer skill-building opportunities and permanent supportive housing to their residents.
Sanford Courtyard now has 20 affordable apartments for Seminole County residents and families. |
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National Preparedness Month Reminds Residents to Get Storm-Ready |
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September is National Preparedness Month, which also falls during the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season. With most storm activity happening between mid-August and mid-October, now is the time to prepare for what may come.
Residents are encouraged to build or refresh their emergency kits, review insurance coverage, and take time to go over their household preparedness plans. A well-stocked kit and a clear plan can make a major difference during and after a storm.
Staying informed is just as important as being supplied. Seminole County’s emergency notification system, Alert Seminole, provides critical warnings and updates directly to residents. Signing up ensures you receive timely alerts about severe weather and other emergencies.
Register today at prepareseminole.org or text SEMINOLE to 888-777. |
| Register Here |
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Scout Vehicles Arrive in Seminole County |
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Residents may soon catch a glimpse of Scout on the move in Seminole County. Vehicles for the County’s new on-demand public transportation system have started arriving into town.
The fleet will feature two types of vehicles: the Volkswagen ID. Buzz, a fully electric van with seating for up to six passengers, and the Toyota Sienna, a hybrid vehicle equipped for wheelchair accessibility.
Test drives are underway ahead of the October 15 launch. Residents can download the Ride Freebee app and create a rider profile before the service begins.
For more information, visit scoutseminolefl.com. |
| Learn More |
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Seminole Stream Now Available |
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Seminole Stream, the County’s new streaming channel, is now available on the Apple, Android, Amazon, Roku, and Samsung app stores. This service lets users watch Seminole County Government Television (SGTV) live and access on-demand content. Until now, SGTV could only be viewed through the County website, Spectrum cable, or limited programming on YouTube.
With Seminole Stream, residents can stay informed with public safety and emergency updates, view community topics, and watch live Board of County Commissioners meetings.
Learn more at seminolecountyfl.gov/SGTV. |
| Learn More |
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Parks & Recreation Director Takes on Statewide Role |
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Seminole County proudly recognizes Parks and Recreation Director Richard E. Durr, Jr. for his recent installation as president of the Florida Recreation and Park Association (FRPA). Durr, who has served the County since 2012, will now help guide recreation professionals across the state through professional development and statewide initiatives.
The Seminole County Parks and Recreation Department also earned recognition for another successful year of its Vintage Park Poster Challenge, receiving the 2025 FRPA Public Relations: Campaign/Initiative Award. |
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City Employees Honored After Fiery Rescue |
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The Seminole County Fire Department recently honored seven Winter Springs Parks and Recreation employees for their quick actions to save two dogs and alert emergency responders to a house fire.
Fire Chief Matt Kinley, alongside Seminole County Commission Chairman Jay Zembower and Winter Springs Mayor Kevin McCann, joined local leaders in presenting the team with “Community Hero Awards.” The homeowners also thanked the employees for their courageous actions. |
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Master Gardener Volunteer Info Session Meet and Greet |
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Residents with a passion for both volunteering and gardening are invited to discover how they can combine the two at the Master Gardener Volunteer Info Session and Meet & Greet. At this event, attendees will learn what the Florida Master Gardener Volunteer Program entails and can speak with current volunteers before applying.
Tuesday, September 23, 2–3:30 p.m.
250 W. County Home Road, Sanford |
| Register |
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Working with Worbla: A Cosplay Workshop Exclusively for Ages 9–12 |
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Pre-teens aged 9–12 are invited to work on their cosplay costumes at the East Branch Library during a cosplay workshop using Worbla. Worbla is a thermoplastic that can be shaped and molded with a heat gun. In this hands-on workshop, attendees will learn how to craft a Worbla cuff or bracer to fit their own arm. With a little practice, participants will be able to mold other cosplay accessories in no time.
Wednesday, September 17, 6–7:30 p.m.
East Branch Library, 310 N. Division Street, Oviedo |
| Register |
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Frog Hop Night Hike |
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Learn how to identify frogs by sight and sound during a night hike led by the Trail and Parks team. Explore the fascinating science behind amplexus and how these croaking creatures are essential to a balanced ecosystem.
Saturday, September 20, 7:30–9:30 p.m.
Lake Harney Wilderness Area, 2187 Osceola Fish Camp Road, Geneva |
| Register |
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Seminole County Government, 1101 East 1st Street, Sanford, Fl 32771, United States |
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