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 “grace” 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 community’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 music’s transformative power for Apopka’s youth.

 

These efforts align with Apopka’s broader push for downtown revitalization and retail expansion, highlighting the city’s dynamic growth.

In a celebratory gathering at Wekiva High School, Lee Road earned the distinguished Corridor of the Year honor, recognizing the street’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 area’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 People’s Choice and Barn Burner awards.

 

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

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 Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), these upgrades include modern polyethylene pipelines that replace over 13 miles of outdated materials — 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.

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 “minor,” 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 “secure/hold” and bus diversion to a nearby middle school. The local community remains attentive to the well-being of those affected.

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 Mustang’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 Mustang’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.

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.

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.

Apopka is buzzing with impactful developments and lively events.

 

Central Florida leaders joined forces on October 6, 2025, for Habitat for Humanity Seminole-Apopka’s Executive Build, raising a new affordable home for a local family in need.

 

The Apopka City Council’s unanimous annexation of land for Paulucci Acres will soon bring more than 1,100 single-family homes and new businesses, fueling the city’s rapid expansion.

 

The Rotary Club’s beloved Fall Festival returns October 16–19 at Kittlea Nelson Park, promising festive carnival rides, live music, delicious eats, and a beer garden for all ages to enjoy.

 

Meanwhile, First Methodist Church’s pumpkin patch welcomes families all October, offering fun activities while supporting local youth programs.

 

Every Apopka resident has a reason to join in and help shape a thriving, united community.