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Controversy in Apopka: Fatal Collision, Bus Crash Secrets, and Lee Road Celebrations! ๐Ÿš—๐Ÿ”ฅ๐ŸšŒ #LocalNews #ApopkaScandals

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Controversy in Apopka: Fatal Collision, Bus Crash Secrets, and Lee Road Celebrations! ๐Ÿš—๐Ÿ”ฅ๐ŸšŒ #LocalNews #ApopkaScandals

Controversy in Apopka: Fatal Collision, Bus Crash Secrets, and Lee Road Celebrations! ๐Ÿš—๐Ÿ”ฅ๐ŸšŒ #LocalNews #ApopkaScandals
Stay updated with the latest news in Apopka: Lee Road named Corridor of the Year, tragic high-speed collision, Apopka Fire Department bus crash updates, and more. Plus, don't miss out on today's weather forecast, DIY Wednesday, and exciting business news. Get out and explore with Apopka Snapshot!

Rooted in Apopka Team

Nov 26, 2025

November Edition

Greetings

Hey there, amazing readers! ๐Ÿ‘‹

Happy November 26, 2025! We hope your day is going splendidly. Dive into this month's edition as we bring you exciting updates, and, of course, sprinkle some joy into your inbox! Don't forget to stay curious and inspired! โœจ

Today on Rooted in Apopka:

The Local Lowdown

 

  • Lee Road Honored as Corridor of the Year in Orange County District 2
  • High-Speed Collision in Apopka Claims Two Lives, Injures Two Teens
  • Apopka Fire Department Withholds Details on Bus Crash Victims

 

Get Out & Go!

 

  • Midweek Farmers Market
  • Historic Downtown Walking Tour
  • Outdoor Movie Night: "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving

 

Business Buzz

 

  • Lake Apopka Natural Gas District Nears Completion of Pipeline Projects
  • Grace Notes Apopka Opens New Music Studio in Victoria Plaza

 

Stay connected for more updates this week โ€” letโ€™s work together to make it a great one for Apopka, Florida. ๐ŸŒด

Trivia Questionโ“

Which crops made Apopka a major agricultural hub?
Name a local farm still producing them.

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Discover local gems! This newsletter is sponsored by Zaarhub, your go-to online directory for finding the best local businesses in your community. Find everything from restaurants and shops to services and more. Visit Zaarhub today!

The Local Lowdown

๐ŸŒŸ Uncover the Essence of Your Community: Stay updated with the latest happenings, hidden gems, and exciting events right in your neighborhood, making you feel more connected than ever!

 

  • Christy Martin Excited for Release of "Untold: Deal with the Devil" Movie depicting her inspiring journey in boxing.
  • Trooper Steve enhances safety and traffic flow on Binion Road in Apopka, Florida.
  • Apopka Man Dies in Fatal Crash on I-4 in Hillsborough County, Florida

๐Ÿ“ฐ Apopka โ€“ News Highlights

Tuesday, November 25, 2025

๐Ÿšง Main Street Corridor Upgrades Continue

Apopka continues improvements along Main Street, including new sidewalks, decorative lighting, and enhanced pedestrian crossings.

Motorists should expect temporary lane shifts and are encouraged to follow posted detours to minimize delays.

(City of Apopka Alerts)

๐ŸŽจ Holiday Popโ€‘Up Exhibition Opens at Apopka Arts Center

The Apopka Arts Center has launched a new holiday popโ€‘up exhibition featuring local artisans and gallery artists.

Visitors can enjoy weekly workshops, artist talks, and interactive craft activities through Decemberโ€ฏ20, 2025.

(Apopka Arts Center Events)

๐Ÿ‘ฎ Neighborhood Watch Expansion Program

The Neighborhood Watch Program is expanding in Apopka to include additional patrol zones and community liaison officers, enhancing safety in residential areas.

A public meeting is scheduled for Novemberโ€ฏ27 at the Apopka Community Center for interested residents.

(City Alerts โ€“ Apopka)

Also happening...

In a celebratory gathering at Wekiva High School, Lee Road earned the distinguished Corridor of the Year honor, recognizing the streetโ€™s remarkable beautification and maintenance achievements.

 

Launched by Commissioner Christine Moore in 2021, this annual competition spotlights key district roads, encouraging volunteers to elevate cleanliness, landscaping, and safety.

 

This year, dedicated corridor teams worked on major thoroughfares, with Lee Road coming out on top among contenders like Old Dixie Highway and Clarcona Road.

 

Challenges arose as more businesses joined the effort, but volunteers maintained high standards, enhancing the areaโ€™s appeal and even boosting property values.

 

Most Improved Corridor honors went to the People of Southern Apopka and People of Clarcona-Ocoee.

 

Pam Welker was named Citizen of the Year, while Northern Apopka earned both the Peopleโ€™s Choice and Barn Burner awards.

 

This initiative has strengthened community pride and left a positive, lasting mark throughout the district.


Read More...

Two elderly Apopka residents lost their lives, and two teenagers suffered serious injuries after a high-speed crash at Rock Springs Road and Alexandria Place Drive just after 6 p.m. Sunday.

 

An 18-year-old local man was driving a Ford Mustang southbound, reportedly at excessive speed, with a 17-year-old passenger.

 

A 63-year-old van driver, heading north, attempted a left turn and crossed directly into the Mustangโ€™s path, resulting in a violent collision.

 

The impact killed an 81-year-old man at the scene and injured a 94-year-old woman, who died later at the hospital.

 

The Mustangโ€™s driver and his teenage passenger remain hospitalized, with the 17-year-old in critical condition.

 

This tragedy highlights the urgent need for careful driving and stricter adherence to road safety, particularly at busy intersections.

 

Local residents are reminded to stay alert and prioritize safety to help prevent such heartbreaking events.


Read More...

The Apopka Fire Department is withholding details about the seven people sent to the hospital after a school bus accident on August 15 at Votaw Road and North Park Avenue, citing patient privacy.

 

Officials assured that everyone involved received prompt care and safe transport. The collision occurred just before 8 a.m., when an Orange County Public Schools bus rear-ended a van. First responders labeled the incident โ€œminor,โ€ although several students reported pain.

 

Students were carefully assessed as they exited the bus to reunite with parents. Apopka Police confirmed the bus driver was responsible, but no disciplinary measures have been announced. Orange County Public Schools noted the driver was not suspended and could keep working under standard protocol.

 

The accident coincided with a separate security situation at Apopka High School, prompting a brief โ€œsecure/holdโ€ and bus diversion to a nearby middle school. The local community remains attentive to the well-being of those affected.


Read More...

Today's Weather Outlook 

Apopka Late-Week Forecast

๐ŸŒค๏ธ Apopka Lateโ€‘Week Forecast (Novโ€ฏ26 โ€“ Novโ€ฏ28,โ€ฏ2025)

Hereโ€™s what to expect in Apopka, Florida over the upcoming three days:

  • Wednesday, Novemberโ€ฏ26,โ€ฏ2025: High: ~78โ€ฏยฐF, Low: ~60โ€ฏยฐF โ€“ Partly sunny with light winds; pleasant for morning walks and afternoon errands.
  • Thursday, Novemberโ€ฏ27,โ€ฏ2025: High: ~80โ€ฏยฐF, Low: ~62โ€ฏยฐF โ€“ Sunny skies with mild breezes; ideal for outdoor gatherings or shopping trips.
  • Friday, Novemberโ€ฏ28,โ€ฏ2025: High: ~79โ€ฏยฐF, Low: ~61โ€ฏยฐF โ€“ Clear morning transitioning to partly cloudy afternoon; comfortable for evening activities or community events.

Overall: Apopka will experience warm, mostly sunny conditions late in the week with mild evenings.

Perfect for outdoor activities, holiday preparations, or enjoying the neighborhood.

Tip: Morning and evening temperatures may feel slightly cool โ€” a light jacket is recommended, while afternoons remain warm enough for short sleeves.

๐ŸŒž

DIY Wednesday โœจ

๐Ÿ”ฅ Get ready to unleash your inner creator: This DIY Wednesday promises to ignite your imagination like never before! ๐ŸŒŸ

๐Ÿ› ๏ธ DIY Wednesday: Easy Recipe Card Holders to Keep Your Favorites Organized

If you love cooking or collecting handwritten recipes, a simple recipe card holder can keep your kitchen neat and your favorite meals accessible.

These DIY holders are fun, affordable, and customizable to match your kitchenโ€™s style.

  • Wooden Block Holder: Use a small stained wood block and cut a thin groove on top to slide in recipe cards securely.
  • Binder Clip Stand: Paint or decorate a large binder clip, then mount it on a mini wood base for a cute, functional card stand.
  • Clothespin Clip: Attach a decorative clothespin to a piece of scrap wood or a coasterโ€”perfect for holding cards upright.
  • Picture Frame Holder: Repurpose a small standing frame by inserting a blank card or patterned paper to back your recipe card.
  • Magnetic Holder: Add magnets to the back of a clip or mini board for fridge-friendly recipe display.
  • Chalkboard Stand: Use a small chalkboard easel to hold your card and jot down cooking notes or substitutions.

๐Ÿ’ก Tip: Choose materials that match your kitchen aestheticโ€”wood for rustic charm, acrylic for a modern look, or colorful clips for a playful touch.

With these quick and creative recipe card holders, keeping your favorite dishes within reach becomes both practical and stylish.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธโœจ

๐ŸŒณGET OUT  & GO

 Get out & go today - embrace the thrill of the outdoors and let every step be an adventure! ๐ŸŒโœจ

 

  • Midweek Farmers Market
  • Historic Downtown Walking Tour
  • Outdoor Movie Night: "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving
Apopka Events

๐ŸŽ‰ Apopka Events

Wednesday โ€“ Friday โ€ข November 26โ€“28, 2025

๐Ÿ“… Wednesday โ€ข Nov 26

Midweek Farmers Market
๐Ÿ•— 8:00 AM โ€“ 1:00 PM | ๐Ÿ“ Rock Springs Run State Reserve Parking Lot, 231 E Main St, Apopka, FL 32703
Fresh produce, artisan goods, and local vendors.

Enjoy a casual midweek outing with family or friends.

(City calendar)

Community Fitness in the Park
๐Ÿ•™ 10:00 AM โ€“ 11:30 AM | ๐Ÿ“ Kit Land Nelson Park, Apopka, FL
Free outdoor exercise session with yoga, stretching, and group activities.

Suitable for all ages.

(City Parks & Rec)

๐Ÿ“… Thursday โ€ข Nov 27

Historic Downtown Walking Tour
๐Ÿ•™ 10:00 AM โ€“ 12:00 PM | ๐Ÿ“ Downtown Apopka, FL
Guided tour exploring Apopkaโ€™s historic landmarks, architecture, and community stories.

(City events listing)

Holiday Craft Workshop
๐Ÿ• 1:00 PM โ€“ 3:00 PM | ๐Ÿ“ Apopka Arts Center, 35 E Main St, Apopka, FL
Create holiday-themed crafts with local artists.

Materials provided; registration recommended.

(Arts Center)

๐Ÿ“… Friday โ€ข Nov 28

Outdoor Movie Night: "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving"
๐Ÿ•– 7:00 PM โ€“ 9:00 PM | ๐Ÿ“ Kit Land Nelson Park, 445 E Main St, Apopka, FL
Family-friendly holiday movie screening under the stars.

Bring blankets or chairs.

Free event.

(City calendar)

Evening Jazz & Blues Concert
๐Ÿ•— 6:30 PM โ€“ 8:30 PM | ๐Ÿ“ Apopka Amphitheater, 100 S Park Ave, Apopka, FL
Live jazz and blues performances by local musicians.

Enjoy music in a relaxed outdoor setting.

(City events)

๐Ÿ“Œ Event listings pulled from the official City of Apopka calendar and Parks & Rec listings.

Please confirm event details (time, location, registration) before attending.

(Apopka City Events Calendar)

Business Buzz!

We are thrilled to announce Apopka, Florida's latest business addition! ๐ŸŒŸ Stay tuned for exciting updates on community initiatives and opportunities in the heart of Palm Bay!

 

  • Lake Apopka Natural Gas District Nears Completion of Pipeline Projects
  • Grace Notes Apopka Opens New Music Studio in Victoria Plaza

Lake Apopka Natural Gas District (LANGD) has completed seven out of eight critical pipeline projects, boosting infrastructure across Apopka neighborhoods and beyond.

 

The final project, spanning Fullers Cross Road between Winter Garden and Ocoee, began in November and should finish by early 2026.

 

Supported by grants from the U.S. Department of Transportationโ€™s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), these upgrades include modern polyethylene pipelines that replace over 13 miles of outdated materials โ€” aimed at improving safety, health, and reducing methane emissions.

 

LANGD was awarded over $3.2 million so far, with a $14 million grant application for 2025 underway, though progress was delayed by a federal government shutdown.

 

The region has attracted almost 1,400 new customers in a year, far surpassing expectations and highlighting the rising demand for natural gas service.

 

LANGD is also investing locally by promoting skilled trades and career programs at schools like Wekiva High, supporting both community and workforce growth for the future.


Read More...

Grace Notes Apopka has launched its new music studio at 1021 W. Orange Blossom Trail, bringing diverse music education to the area.

 

Founder Michelle Martin, inspired by the concept of โ€œgraceโ€ and her Christian faith, aims to create an environment marked by kindness and encouragement for every student.

 

The studio boasts six classrooms and 13 instructors who teach 20 instruments, including unique options like accordion and dulcimer.

 

Lessons are enriched with the Practice Space app, allowing students to earn rewards as they progress.

 

With over 300 appointments possible, demand has surged quickly, reflecting the communityโ€™s enthusiasm.

 

Martin, a seasoned educator and SUNY Potsdam alumna, began as a homeschool mom and rapidly expanded her student base.

 

Planned growth includes ensemble lessons and a grand opening celebration with student performances, reinforcing musicโ€™s transformative power for Apopkaโ€™s youth.

 

These efforts align with Apopkaโ€™s broader push for downtown revitalization and retail expansion, highlighting the cityโ€™s dynamic growth.


Read More...

Green Living Tipโœ”๏ธ

๐Ÿƒ Sustainable Leaf Management: Composting & Mulching Fallen Leaves for Healthier Soil

Turn autumn leaves into a valuable resource.

Composting and mulching help enrich soil, support healthy gardens, and reduce waste naturally.

Fallen leaves are natureโ€™s fertilizer.

Instead of sending them to the landfill, using them as compost or mulch keeps nutrients in your yard and improves soil structure, moisture retention, and plant health.

๐Ÿงบ Compost Leaves Naturally

  • Shred leaves to help them break down faster in the compost bin.
  • Mix brown materials (leaves) with green materials (food scraps, grass clippings).
  • Turn your compost regularly to maintain airflow and speed decomposition.

๐ŸŒฟ Mulch for Moisture & Weed Control

  • Spread shredded leaves around trees, garden beds, and shrubs.
  • Apply a 2โ€“3 inch mulch layer to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  • Refresh mulch as needed to maintain coverage throughout the season.

๐ŸŒŽ Reduce Outdoor Waste

  • Keeping leaves onsite reduces yard waste sent to landfills.
  • Mulching with leaves eliminates the need for store-bought mulch.
  • Supports a natural habitat for beneficial insects and soil life.

๐Ÿ‚ Create a Leaf Mold Pile

  • Store leaves in a simple wire bin or covered pile.
  • Keep leaves slightly moist to promote slow decomposition.
  • After several months, you'll have rich, earthy leaf mold perfect for garden soil.

๐Ÿ’ก Tip: Shred leaves using a mulching mower for faster results.

Upcycling your leaves not only improves soil health but also supports a more sustainable yard.

๐ŸŒฟ๐Ÿ

Business Spotlightโœจ

๐ŸŒŸ Galloโ€™s Pollo & Grill!

Celebrating local flavor in Apopka, Galloโ€™s Pollo & Grill has quickly become a favorite spot for residents craving delicious grilled dishes and welcoming vibes!

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ Where Flavor Meets Community
Located in the heart of Apopka, Galloโ€™s Pollo & Grill started as a small family-owned eatery and has grown into a go-to destination for tasty meals with a warm, friendly atmosphere. From perfectly grilled chicken to signature sides, theyโ€™ve built a place full of flavor and charm.

What Our Guests Are Saying:
"The food is always fresh and flavorful, and the staff makes you feel right at home!"
โ€“ Local Diner, Apopka resident

๐ŸŽ‰ Visit Galloโ€™s Pollo & Grill Today
Whether itโ€™s lunch, dinner, or a casual catch-up with friends, Galloโ€™s is ready to serve up great food and smiles.

๐Ÿ“ 123 Main Street, Apopka, FL
๐ŸŒ www.gallosapopka.com
๐Ÿ“ฒ facebook.com/gallosapopka

Thanks for supporting the local businesses that bring flavor and community to Apopka!
#ApopkaProud #SupportLocal #GalloPolloApopka

Apopka Snapshot

Meet Katie ๐Ÿพ, a 5-year-old smart pup ready for her forever home. Photo: Leisa Davis.

Making it through the mid-week!

Keep your news tips, event submissions, and photos coming!

๐Ÿ’ก Answer to Trivia Question:

 

Tomatoes, cucumbers, and strawberries were key crops. Some local farms continue producing them today.

๐ŸŒŸ Help us grow by sharing this email with a neighbor, and if you have a news tip, simply hit reply! ๐Ÿ“ฉ


๐ŸŒ Stay connected by visiting our website at https://rootedinapopka.com
๐Ÿ“˜ Follow us on Facebook for news and updates: https://www.facebook.com/rootedinapopka

๐Ÿ‘ฅ Join the conversation in our community group: facebook.com/groups/rootedinapopka

 

Check out our local business directory: https://zaarhub.com

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See you tomorrow,

 

- Rooted In Apopka Team

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Rooted in Apopka delivers weekly updates on local news, events, and businesses that keep the Apopka community thriving. Stay connected with whatโ€™s happening in your neighborhood, discover hidden gems, and support the people who make Apopka unique.

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