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Apopka mourns fallen soldier, commission advances annexation study

The Apopka Chief Newsletter: June 19 Edition

Author

Sarah Merly
June 19, 2026

Welcome to The Apopka Chief weekly newsletter!

Happy Juneteenth! Today we celebrate the treasures of freedom and equality. Be sure to party at the Juneteenth parade and festival tomorrow in downtown Apopka—it looks awesome!

~Sarah Merly, Editorial Assistant & Reporter

Front Page


Reverend Gerard Moss of St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church delivers the eulogy for Specialist Mariyah Collington. | Photo by Bryan Patricio

Other Front Page News: 

Other Local News

Longtime Chief staffer dies of liver cancer

Joseph Ricketson, former publisher’s son, served for 25 years

OCPS seeks referendum renewal, citing rising healthcare costs, funding pressures 

Voters to decide the one-mill referendum Nov. 3.

Wyld Oaks announces luxury apartment complex partner

Dewfall Hathaway set to begin construction of 325-unit complex this summer

Celebrate Father’s Day with dancing, games, and more

Events on tap across Central Florida

Apopka to celebrate Juneteenth with parade and community festival 

City Commission to consider road closures for June 20 event.

Sertoma hosts Webster appreciation day

Webster honors club with flag that flew over Capitol

Police Beat: APD issues 74 citations June 7-13

In the period from June 7-13, 2026, the Apopka Police Department received 1,677 calls for service, responded to 47 crashes, issued 74 citations, and made 32 arrests.

312-unit Floridian Town Center apartment proposal moves through review 

DRC also examines plans for a Wyld Oaks cell tower, road improvements.

Jennell Payne Simmons celebrates 105th birthday

Apopka resident honored for decades of service as a foster grandparent, crossing guard and church leader.

Opinions: Sen. LaVon Bracy Davis, Mayor Nick Nesta and Jake Vest

Local Sports


Hunter McNenney makes a throw on the run against Pine Ridge. | Photo by Vinnie Cammarano

Lifestyle

Apopka Historical Fact: Waite-Davis House (5 S. Central Ave.)

“This home was built by mayor Edward B. Waite in 1886. It was he who established the address system for Apopka, using this intersection as the center from which all addresses originate. It is one of the more ornate 19th century homes in Apopka.”

~Apopka Historical Trail by Steve Rajtar