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Fire (AFD)
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More than 30 Apopka firefighters joined Sunday’s Tunnel to Towers run in New York City despite travel delays and stormy conditions. Former Fire Chief Chuck Carnesale called the group “relentless” in its commitment to honoring those lost on September 11.
More than 30 Apopka firefighters complete Tunnel to Towers run despite storm
More than 30 Apopka firefighters joined Sunday’s Tunnel to Towers run in New York City despite travel delays and stormy conditions. Former Fire Chief Chuck Carnesale called the group “relentless” in its commitment to honoring those lost on September 11. more
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The Apopka City Commission unanimously approved a three-year contract with the city’s firefighters’ union. The agreement includes a $12,000 first-year increase in base pay for bargaining-unit employees and runs through September 2029.
Apopka approves firefighter contract with $12,000 first-year base pay increase
The Apopka City Commission unanimously approved a three-year contract with the city’s firefighters’ union. The agreement includes a $12,000 first-year increase in base pay for bargaining-unit employees and runs through September 2029. more
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A proposed three-year contract would give Apopka firefighters a $12,000 first-year raise, additional annual increases, and a uniform 4% pension accrual rate. Union members overwhelmingly ratified the agreement, which now awaits City Commission approval.
Proposed firefighter contract includes $12,000 raises, pension increase and new pay incentives
A proposed three-year contract would give Apopka firefighters a $12,000 first-year raise, additional annual increases, and a uniform 4% pension accrual rate. Union members overwhelmingly ratified the agreement, which now awaits City Commission approval. more
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The 2650 Foundation is inviting the community to participate in its third annual 15 Days of Hope campaign, honoring the life and legacy of fallen Apopka firefighter Austin Duran. The 15-day initiative includes tribute events, volunteer opportunities, fundraisers, and community gatherings that support first responders and firefighter training.
2650 Foundation announces third annual 15 Days of Hope campaign honoring Austin Duran
The 2650 Foundation is inviting the community to participate in its third annual 15 Days of Hope campaign, honoring the life and legacy of fallen Apopka firefighter Austin Duran. The 15-day initiative includes tribute events, volunteer opportunities, fundraisers, and community gatherings that support first responders and firefighter training. more
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Updating Breaking News: Duran endorses Nesta for mayor
The father of fallen Apopka firefighter Austin Duran has formally endorsed mayoral candidate Nick Nesta, saying the commissioner stood with firefighters and families during a push for safety reforms. Michael Duran said those efforts led to additional staffing, new training and safety divisions, and what supporters call “Austin’s 18.” more
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Duran: “It's your city. What is your vision? How will you vote?”
In an emotional and pointed op/ed, Michael Duran calls on Apopka voters to examine their values and expectations for the city’s next mayor and council. Drawing on his son’s death and years of engagement with City Hall, Duran challenges residents to scrutinize claims of fiscal stewardship, transparency, and leadership. more
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Beginning of an Era: Apopka opens Fire Station #6 after nearly a decade of temporary facilities
After eight years of makeshift quarters—from hospital trailers to apartments—Apopka Fire Station 6 now opens its doors in a permanent, 8,065-square-foot facility next to AdventHealth Apopka, equipped to serve a surging population. more
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No charges filed in APD death investigation
During the overnight hours of June 15th, Daniel Hodge sought shelter from a storm beneath a commercial vehicle. Approximately one hour later, the driver arrived, started the vehicle, and departed – unaware that Mr. Hodge was beneath the trailer. Mr. Hodge sustained fatal injuries as the vehicle exited the parking lot. more
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Apopka Fire Station #1
Second Annual Fifteen Days of Hope honors fallen firefighter Austin Duran
The 2650 Foundation is hosting its second annual Fifteen Days of Hope, a community initiative honoring the memory of Apopka Firefighter Austin Duran. From June 30 to July 15, residents can participate in supporting first responders and foster stronger community bonds. more
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APD investigates early morning death in Apopka; traffic homicide unit responds
Preliminary information suggests that the circumstances of Mr. Hodge’s death may be traffic-related. As a result, the Apopka Police Department’s Traffic Homicide Investigation Unit was called to the scene and is actively collecting evidence. more
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Devon’s Legacy Foundation launches Fire Academy Scholarship honoring Apopka Fire Explorer 
Devon Nicholas Bellar was a dedicated member of the Apopka Fire Explorers program, where he found his calling in fire service and community leadership. Although he never got the chance to fulfill his dream of becoming a firefighter, his legacy will now empower others to follow that same path.  more
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Registration opens for 2025 Apopka Youth Public Safety Academy 
Students at the Public Safety Academy will learn all aspects of police and fire services. They will have hands on experience by participating in daily physical conditioning, scenarios, and field trips. more
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Brotherhood in the Flames: A glimpse into life with Apopka's tower truck firefighters
A tower truck isn't your average fire engine. It's a highly specialized vehicle equipped with an aerial platform and tools for high-angle rescues, ventilation, and major structure fires. more
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Apopka Fire Station #5
Apopka celebrates International Firefighters' Day
In a proclamation delivered at the April 16th City Council meeting, Mayor Bryan Nelson declared May 4th International Firefighters’ Day—a citywide tribute to the men and women who put their lives on the line daily and to those who never made it home. more
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Apopka Fire Department "pushes in" its new fire engine
A push-in ceremony is a time-honored tradition in fire departments that dates back to the days of horse-drawn fire apparatus in the 1800s. more
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Apopka Fire Department Station 1
City Council votes 5-0 to promote Wil Sanchez to Apopka Fire Chief
The Apopka City Council, by a vote of 5-0, promoted Interim Fire Chief Wil Sanchez to the AFD's permanent leader at its December 18th meeting. more
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AFD Interim Fire Chief Wil Sanchez is expected to be named permanent fire chief at the December 18th City Council meeting.
Developing Story: City Council expected to promote Sanchez to Apopka Fire Chief at Wednesday meeting
The Apopka City Council will vote on promoting Interim Fire Chief Wil Sanchez as the AFD's permanent leader at its December 18th meeting. more
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Six Apopka firefighters awarded scholarships from the 2650 Foundation
Vehicle and Machinery Rescue certification is an advanced rescue training program. This program equips firefighters with important skills to respond to complex and complicated vehicle and machinery rescue scenarios.  more
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Happy Halloween, Apopka!
Happy Halloween, Apopka!
The City of Apopka would like to wish you and your family a safe Halloween. We hope you will review and discuss these safety tips from the Apopka Fire and Apopka Police Department!  more
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Apopka Fire Department Station 1
The Apopka Fire Department and the 2650 Foundation are awarding scholarships in honor of fallen firefighter Austin Duran on Friday
The scholarships have been made possible through the continued efforts and support of the  2650 Foundation, an organization dedicated to honoring the life and legacy of fallen Apopka  Firefighter Austin Duran. more
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AFD graduates 10 firefighters; increases department force to 138
According to Interim Fire Chief Wil Sanchez, the AFD increased to 138 firefighters working three shifts, with 46 positions per shift. more
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Apopka Fire Department - Station #1
City Council approves contract with Apopka Professional Firefighters Association
The final step in the ratification process is the City Council's vote on September 18th to approve the contract. more
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Apopka Fire Station #1
Apopka Fire Department, 2650 Foundation awarding scholarships
The scholarships have been made possible through the continued efforts and support of the 2650 Foundation, an organization dedicated to honoring the life and legacy of fallen Apopka Firefighter Austin Duran. more
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Apopka Professional Firefighters Association ratifies contract with City
The final step in the ratification process is the City Council's vote on September 18th to approve the contract. more
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Apopka remembers: Memorial at City Hall and a commemorative 5K run in honor of Apopka firefighter highlights 9/11 remembrance
In Apopka, the city remembers the sacrifices made on 9/11 with a memorial service on the steps of City Hall and a 5k charitable memorial run in honor of a former Apopka firefighter. more
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