Greetings

Hey there, amazing readers! 👋

Happy November 24, 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! ✨

Today on Rooted in Apopka:

The Local Lowdown

• OP-ED: Local Volunteers Are the Reason to Give Thanks
  
• EApopka and Wekiva Swimmers Shine at State Championships
  
• Maters & Taters Market & Creamery Closes After 41 Years in Apopka
  
  

Get Out & Go!

• Downtown Apopka Farmers & Craft Market 
  
• Nature & Wellness” Guided Walk at Magnolia Park
  
• Community Theater: “Evening at the Apopka Playhous

Business Buzz

• Family First Health Celebrates Grand Opening in Apopka
  
• Maters & Taters Market & Creamery Closes After 41 Years in Apopka

Stay connected for more updates this week — let’s work together to make it a great one for Apopka, Florida. 🌴

What Native American tribe influenced early Apopka history?

Find one cultural tradition from this tribe that remains.

Monday Motivation

The Local Lowdown

Weekend Recap...

This Week...

By Christine Moore, Orange County District 2 Commissioner

Thanksgiving shines a light on Orange County District 2’s resilient community spirit, showcased by dedicated volunteers transforming neighborhoods throughout the year.

From the Corridor of the Year contest to large-scale cleanups on Maine and Old Dixie, local engagement has flourished.

Each month, hundreds pitch in to beautify public spaces, report code issues, and add vibrant art installations.

Lockhart’s revitalized corridors and festivals, along with training sessions at Lockhart Baptist Church, are strengthening community bonds.

The Clarcona-Ocoee group’s landmark mural led to state-funded expansion of the Clarcona Connector Trail, connecting neighborhoods to Florida’s renowned coast-to-coast path.

Southern Apopka’s beautification efforts are being rewarded with safer streets and improved infrastructure, while People of Northern Apopka invite new volunteers to join ongoing projects.

Dedicated residents—from Pastor Larry and team on Old Dixie to Clerk Tiffany Moore Russell’s volunteers—have led transformative projects, collecting nearly a hundred bags of trash and revitalizing key areas.

District 2’s achievements demonstrate the powerful partnership between residents and county leadership.

Maya Szylkowski, a freshman at Apopka High School, and Mason Marco, a sophomore from Wekiva High School, delivered standout performances at the FHSAA Swimming State Championships on November 14 at Ocala’s state-of-the-art Florida Aquatics Swimming & Training Center (FAST).

Szylkowski excelled in the 100-yard butterfly and backstroke, advancing to the consolation finals in both.

She set a personal record of 56.98 seconds in the butterfly and 57.89 in the backstroke, finishing second in each consolation heat and earning 10th place overall.

Meanwhile, Marco represented Wekiva in the 100-yard breaststroke, securing 22nd in prelims after an impressive run at districts and regionals.

The athletes’ achievements underscore the local dedication and promise of both swim teams, setting an inspiring tone for future competitions.

The Orange County Library System is embracing December with festive programs that blend creativity and learning for families across Central Florida.

Throughout the month, local branches in Apopka and Orlando will host hands-on culinary events, like snowman cupcake decorating, gingerbread house building, and a special New Year’s mocktail workshop for all ages.

The Orlando Public Library features holiday performances, including beloved scenes from "The Nutcracker" by Central Florida Ballet and a magical musical version of "Snow Queen" by Atlantic Coast Theatre, captivating audiences of all ages.

While schools are on break, children and teens can explore STEAM concepts through LEGO Education Spike activities at various branches, or take on the Python Programming Camp at Windermere, diving deep into coding fundamentals.

All OCLS branches will be closed on December 24, 25, and 31, as well as January 1.

Today's Weather Outlook 

🌳GET OUT  & GO

 Get out & go today - embrace the thrill of the outdoors and let every step be an adventure! 🌍✨

• 2025 Holiday Art & Food Kids Camp (Day 1)
  
• 2025 Holiday Art & Food Kids Camp (Day 2)
• 2025 Holiday Art & Food Kids Camp (Day 3)
  

Business Buzz!

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

• Family First Health Celebrates Grand Opening in Apopka
  
• Maters & Taters Market & Creamery Closes After 41 Years in Apopka
  
  

Family First Health has opened at 333 W. Main Street in Apopka, bringing fresh energy to the local healthcare scene.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by the Apopka Chamber of Commerce and community members, was filled with gratitude and excitement for what’s ahead.

Founded by Kristen Roberts, a family nurse practitioner who launched Family First Health as a telehealth practice in July 2024, the clinic responds to gaps left by major healthcare providers.

Roberts began this journey after being laid off, expanding from home visits to a dedicated office—driven by determination and faith.

The clinic offers IV therapy, screenings, physicals, and more, with a focus on affordability: a $65/month membership includes free lab draws, telehealth access, and discounted visits.

Family First Health stands as a new pillar for accessible, community-centered care in Apopka.

After serving Apopka for over forty years, Maters & Taters Market & Creamery has officially closed.

The beloved market, famous for its fresh produce and Amish specialties, held its last day on November 15, 2025.

Founded in 1981 by Marilyn and Sherman Boyer, Maters & Taters built a loyal following as it moved from Forest City to Winter Park, finally making Apopka its home.

Manager Andy Ray cited the loss of Jeff Boyer and decreased foot traffic as reasons for closing, with daily visitor numbers dropping sharply.

Remaining goods were sold at steep discounts and donations were made to H.O.P.E. of Apopka, honoring a tradition of community support.

The property at 454 North Park Avenue is now on the market for $1.2 million, attracting significant interest.

Ray hopes the legacy will inspire a new market to serve local residents.

Early settlers were drawn to Apopka for its fertile land and freshwater springs? These resources made farming and daily life sustainable.

The Savvy Spender's Guide

Welcome to The Savvy Spender's Guide, where we equip you with smart strategies and the latest insights to optimize your spending habits and maximize savings. 🎯 Whether you're navigating through the complexities of personal finance or seeking simple tips for everyday savings, we're here to empower you on your journey to financial freedom. 💡

🛍️ Smart Shopping Strategies for Black Friday & Holiday Sales 💡✨
Holiday shopping doesn’t have to drain your wallet! With the right approach, you can score amazing deals, stretch your budget, and make the most out of seasonal sales.

📝 Make a List & Set a Budget – Know what you need before browsing so you don’t get pulled into impulse buys.

🔍 Compare Prices Ahead of Time – Use price-checking tools or compare across stores to confirm the “deal” is really a deal.

📦 Monitor Early Sales & Pre-Black Friday Events – Many retailers start markdowns weeks early—grab deals before stock runs out.

💳 Use Cashback & Rewards Wisely – Stack store rewards, cashback apps, and points to maximize savings.

📱 Download Store Apps – Exclusive app-only coupons, flash sales, and early access can give you first pick on discounts.

🛒 Add Items to Your Cart in Advance – Many websites show price drops or apply auto-discounts when sales go live.

🎁 Buy Essentials in Bulk – Holiday sales are great for stocking up on household needs at a fraction of the price.

🚫 Ignore “Doorbuster” Pressure – Some limited-time offers aren’t actually the best value—research before rushing.

🎫 Look for Coupons & Stacking Deals – Promo codes, email sign-ups, and bundle deals can lower prices even more.

✅ Takeaway: With a clear plan and smart tools, you can navigate Black Friday and holiday sales confidently—saving money while still getting everything you need (and maybe a little extra!

Business Spotlight✨

🌟 Gallo’s Pollo & Grill!

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

🍽️ Where Flavor Meets Community
Located in the heart of Apopka, Gallo’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, they’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!"
– Local Diner, Apopka resident

🎉 Visit Gallo’s Pollo & Grill Today
Whether it’s lunch, dinner, or a casual catch-up with friends, Gallo’s is ready to serve up great food and smiles.

📍 123 Main Street, Apopka, FL
🌐 www.gallosapopka.com
📲 facebook.com/gallosapopka

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

Apopka Snapshot

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

That's the lowdown for today!

The Seminole tribe influenced Apopka’s early settlement patterns. Some traditional knowledge about plants and farming persists in the area.

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

See you tomorrow,

- Rooted In Apopka Team