HELPING AFTER HARVEY: Harvey survivors will need support; however, donated goods can often add to the challenges for local responders. Seminole County Emergency Management recommends the following ways to help: 1. Money is the most efficient method of donating. 2. Donate through a trusted organization. 3. Affiliate with existing non-profit organizations before going to a disaster area. 4. Be safe and patient.

HARVEY: The historic hurricane hitting Texas is being watched closely by emergency management in Florida. Seminole County Emergency Management is reviewing actions in Texas and revising procedures in an effort to respond more efficiently to local events. Sign up for local emergency alerts at PrepareSeminole.org.

LOCK DOWN EXERCISE: On September 8, 2017 at 10:00am, organizations, businesses and healthcare facilities are encouraged to take part in Operate Protect and Secure, an exercise simulating a lockdown. To participate, visit PrepareSeminole.org or call 407-665-5102 for details.

FYI: Did you know Seminole County Library applied for a grant in the spring to receive 1,000 pairs of eclipse glasses? At no cost to tax payers, the County distributed these glasses to folks at the Library. In addition, Eclipse Day events, including a watch party and crafts, were arranged at the Library.

ICYMI: Did you know the Emil Buehler Planetarium at Seminole State College solar eclipse event attracted over 5,000 people? See highlights of the event here.

SKYWARN: Today, first responders and volunteers received severe weather preparedness and training at the Seminole County Emergency Operations Center. Thank you to US National Weather Service Melbourne Florida for a wonderful program.

COMFORT DOGS: Meet Tootsie and Shiloh! Seminole County Sheriff's Office recently launched a new School Resource Deputy K-9 pilot program in partnership with Seminole County Public Schools. The K-9 deputies will interact with students and staff on campus to help create rapport with law enforcement and help relieve anxiety and stress. Comfort K-9 Tootsie Roll is 1-year-old Jack Russell Terrier mix. She and School Resource Deputy Robert McKay are assigned to Bear Lake Elementary School. Comfort K-9 Shiloh is a 5-year-old Labrador mix. He and School Resource Deputy Darren Guillereault are on duty at Greenwood Lakes Middle School. Both new comfort K-9s were sworn in by Sheriff Lemma last week. The K-9s are inmate-trained rescue dogs that are graduates of the Paws and Stripes program operated by the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office. The dogs received 8-weeks of obedience training and were provided to the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office at no cost.

FLASH SALE: The Seminole County Animal Services shelter is at capacity. In an effort to create more space at the shelter and find loving homes for adoptable pets, Animal Services is offering a Flash Sale tomorrow, Saturday, August 19. All dog adoptions are reduced to $10, and cat adoptions are $5-10 (spayed or neutered cats are $5, surgery to spay or neuter other cats is included in $10 adoptions). All Seminole County residents are required to purchase a $5 pet license per pet. To view adoptable pets, visit SeminoleCountyPets.com WHEN: Saturday, August 19 HOURS: 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. LOCATION: Seminole County Animal Services ADDRESS: 232 Eslinger Way, Sanford FOR MORE INFO: Please call 407-665-5208 or email dgagliano@seminolecountyfl.gov

PARTIAL CLOSURE @ MULLET LAKE RAMP: The Mullet Lake Boat Ramp is partially closed. A privately owned boat caught fire near the Ramp, causing damage to the rails of the floating dock. No injuries were sustained, Seminole County Fire Department extinguished the fire. Repairs are expected to be complete within a week, and an announcement will be made when the Ramp is back to full operation.

TONIGHT: UF IFAS Extension Seminole County's 4-H program will host an open house. Are you interested in getting your child involved in an extra-curricular activity this year? One where they have the opportunity to explore and learn new things? Please join us for the Seminole County 4-H Open House where you will learn about participating in our local, project based 4-H Clubs; such as creative arts, animal science, gardening, computer science, equine science, sewing, archery, leadership, marine science, photography, and public speaking. Date: August 17, 2017 Time: 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM Location: UF/IFAS Seminole County Extension Service Auditorium 250 W. County Home Rd. Sanford, FL For more information please contact: Chelsea Woodard at 407-665-5571 or cwoodard@seminolecountyfl.gov