Central Florida News
Orlando Fire Department Swears In New Firefighters from Class 0126 After Completing Rigorous Training
Published
4 months agoon
By
Willie David
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN) — The Orlando Fire Department officially welcomed its newest firefighters during a formal graduation ceremony recognizing the successful completion of training for New Hire Class 0126.
After months of rigorous and specialized training, the graduates received their badges, took the oath of office and were sworn in as full-time firefighters serving the residents of Orlando. City leaders say the department continues to expand its workforce to meet the needs of Orlando’s growing population.
Training and Certification
Many members of Class 0126 participated in the department’s recruitment program designed to develop local residents with little or no prior fire or emergency medical service experience into trained firefighters.
Through the program, recruits attended classes at Valencia College, where they earned their Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Fire Standards certifications. The City of Orlando covered the cost of their education while recruits earned a salary during training.
After completing the recruitment program and receiving their certifications, the recruits joined the remainder of Class 0126 to complete the Orlando Fire Department’s orientation and training program.
City Investment in Public Safety
City officials say the recruitment initiative demonstrates Orlando’s commitment to investing in public safety while creating career opportunities for local residents.
The program was highlighted by Buddy Dyer during the State of the City Address in August 2025 as an example of how the city is building a pipeline of trained firefighters from within the community.
First Shift Begins
Several graduates from Class 0126 are scheduled to begin their first shift as Orlando firefighters on Saturday, March 14, marking the start of their careers serving the community and responding to emergencies across the city.
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Central Florida News
State Rep. Rita Harris Reelected Without Opposition in Florida House District 44
Published
3 weeks agoon
June 13, 2026
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — Florida State Representative Rita Harris has secured reelection to the Florida House after no opposition qualified to challenge her in District 44 during the state’s candidate qualifying period.
Harris, a Democrat representing House District 44, will return to Tallahassee for another term after neither a Republican, third-party nor write-in candidate entered the race.
Her uncontested reelection reflects continued support within the district and allows her campaign to shift its focus toward supporting Democratic candidates and legislative priorities ahead of the 2027 Legislative Session.
House District 44 includes portions of west Orange County and surrounding communities in Central Florida.
Florida’s General Election is scheduled for Nov. 3, 2026.
Central Florida News
Congressman Maxwell Frost Secures Third-Term Run Following Candidate Qualifying Period
Published
3 weeks agoon
June 12, 2026
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — U.S. Rep. Maxwell Alejandro Frost secured an easy path to a third term representing Florida’s 10th Congressional District after no Democratic, Republican or write-in challengers qualified before the close of Florida’s candidate qualifying period Friday.
“I’m proud that the people of Central Florida continue to put their trust in me, and I don’t take that for granted,” Frost said. “Over the last term, we’ve delivered real results, and now it’s time to build on that.”
Campaign Focuses on Down-Ballot Races
Despite facing no major-party opposition, Frost said his campaign is expanding its political operation to help Democrats compete across Central Florida.
“We’re focused on electing Democrats up and down the ballot.”
The campaign has recruited 87 fellows this summer as part of its year-round organizing program for young people ages 16 to 24. Campaign officials said participants will engage in door-to-door canvassing, phone banking and voter outreach efforts while supporting Democratic candidates throughout the region.
According to the campaign, more than 162 fellows have participated in the program, helping contact more than 157,000 voters during the current election cycle.
Historic Member of Congress
Frost made history in 2022 as the first member of Generation Z elected to Congress. He represents Florida’s 10th Congressional District, which includes much of Orlando and surrounding portions of Orange County.
Central Florida News
State Rep. Bruce Antone Wins Reelection Unopposed
Published
3 weeks agoon
June 12, 2026By
Willie David
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — Florida State Representative Bruce Antone has won reelection to the Florida House after qualifying for the 2026 election cycle without opposition.
Antone, who represents portions of Orange County, remains the longest-serving Democratic state lawmaker in Orange County and one of the most senior members of Florida’s Democratic legislative delegation.
Following his reelection, Antone thanked supporters in a statement posted on Facebook.
“Today, I was reelected to the Florida House of Representatives. I didn’t have any opposition. Thank you to everyone who has supported me during my time and tenure in the Florida House of Representatives,” Antone wrote.
Under Florida election law, candidates who qualify for office without opposition are automatically elected and do not appear on the ballot.
Antone will begin another term in the Florida House as lawmakers prepare for the 2027 Legislative Session in Tallahassee.
