ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. (FNN) – In honor of Earth Day on April 22, Orange County is transforming April into a month-long celebration of sustainability, conservation, and environmental education. Residents and visitors will have access to a wide range of activities designed to promote eco-friendly practices and raise awareness about protecting natural resources.

Earth Month 2025: A Community Effort to Preserve the Planet

Throughout April, Orange County will host interactive events, workshops, and educational programs aimed at fostering a greener future. The initiative highlights the County’s commitment to environmental stewardship, conservation, and sustainable living.

Key Activities Include:

• Eco-Scavenger Hunt: Engage in a fun and interactive challenge to explore nature and sustainability efforts across the county.

• Florida-Friendly Landscaping Workshops: Learn how to create a beautiful, low-maintenance garden using native plants and water-efficient techniques.

• Water Conservation Classes: Gain valuable tips on reducing water waste and improving efficiency at home.

• Beginner Beekeeping Workshops: Discover the essential role of bees in the ecosystem and learn how to start your own hive.

• Oyster Mushroom Cultivation: Learn how to grow your own nutritious mushrooms at home.

• Spring Vegetable Gardening: Get expert advice from the University of Florida Orange County Extension Office (UF/IFAS) on growing seasonal vegetables.

Join the Movement for a Greener Future

The month-long Earth Month celebration encourages Orange County residents to take action by adopting eco-friendly habits and participating in educational programs that support sustainability.

For a full list of events and registration details, visit www.ocfl.net/EarthMonth.

Stay tuned to Florida National News for updates on Orange County’s Earth Month 2025 initiatives.

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) – Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10) took to Reddit’s r/Orlando community this past Friday for an Ask Me Anything (AMA) session, addressing Central Floridians’ concerns on inflation, federal funding freezes, and the future of the Democratic Party. The discussion garnered over 81,000 views, 1,000 upvotes, and more than 350 comments and questions from local residents.

Congressman Frost on Economic Policy & Rising Costs

One Reddit user asked: Do House Democrats have a plan to offer an alternative to Trump’s economic policy?

Congressman Frost responded:

“We can’t just oppose Trump’s billionaire takeover—we must provide our vision. People don’t want marginal improvements, they want bold, transformational change.

Expanding Medicare so no one must choose between medical bills and rent.
Increasing affordable housing and enacting strong renter protections.
Holding corporations accountable for price gouging and price fixing.
Raising the minimum wage so workers aren’t stuck with $7.25 an hour.

We have a popular agenda, and we must fight to reclaim the narrative. While Republicans cover up their SignalGate scandal, Democrats are working to lower costs. I’ve championed price-lowering legislation to reduce property insurance costs, grocery prices, rental fees, and prescription drug costs, including capping EpiPen prices.”

Concerns Over Federal Education Cuts & Public School Support

Another Orlando resident expressed concerns over federal funding cuts to Title I schools, fearing that many students will lose access to free lunch programs.

Congressman Frost, whose mother was a public school teacher for 37 years, responded:

“Florida’s state government is actively working to dismantle public education. Title I funding is crucial for schools serving low-income communities. In February, I marched with fellow members of Congress to the Department of Education’s doors to fight back against threats to public education.

It took Department of Homeland Security officers in body armor to keep us out. That should tell you how serious this is.

Parents, teachers, and school administrators must pressure elected officials at all levels to oppose Trump’s efforts to dismantle the Department of Education. A strong federal education system is more important than ever.”

Food Insecurity: Second Harvest’s Government Support Cut

A Reddit user voiced concerns over Second Harvest Food Bank losing federal food shipments, which impacts over 300 local food pantries, churches, and shelters that rely on their support.

Congressman Frost assured residents that he is taking action:

“This week, the Trump Administration canceled federal food shipments to Second Harvest, and it’s likely not a temporary cut. Hunger is a devastating crisis, affecting both physical and mental health.

I was able to secure $200,000 for Second Harvest to help offset their energy costs for food storage, but I will continue fighting for more resources to ensure families in our district don’t go hungry.”

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