Apopka First Responder Day almost here

September 11th, 2001. It's a date that lives in our hearts and minds. It's the most jarring event in American history since Pearl Harbor. Fifteen years later, the United States still remembers the sacrifice of First Responders, and celebrates their service.

The 4th Annual Apopka First Responder Day is a recognition for local firefighters and police officers. On Saturday, September 10th volunteers from several community groups plan to provide meals to Apopka's firefighters and care packages for Apopka's police officers and dispatchers.

The effort is spearheaded by members of the following groups:

• Girl Scout Troop #822
• American Heritage Girls Troop #6013
• Cub Scout Troop #211
• Boy Scout Troop #211

"We decided to do something a little different and get the community involved," said Tamara Smith, a co-sponsor of Girl Scout Troop #211. "And they jumped in with donations and volunteering their time."

American Heritage Girls Troop #6013 is collecting individual wrapped snacks and drink flavor packs for the care packages. Donations can be dropped off at Church of the Holy Spirit at 601 S. Highland Ave on Tuesday night, or Our Pet World, 380 Semoran Commerce Place.

For more information about Apopka First Responder Day, call (407) 923-1423 or visit their Facebook Page.

The following day, Apopka's 9-11 memorial ceremony will be held at 8 a.m. Sunday, September 11th, at the north steps of Apopka City Hall. Activities will recognize the 15th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. The event also will unveil Christian Lamphere's completed Eagle Scout project - a new 9-11 monument next to City Hall that will feature a piece of the original World Trade Center.