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Demings halts gubernatorial campaign, Planning Commission chair resigns

The Apopka Chief Newsletter: June 12 Edition

Author

Sarah Merly
June 12, 2026

Welcome to The Apopka Chief weekly newsletter!

I hope your summer is off to a wonderful start! Since tonight is National Movie Night, I thought I’d share some of the finest journalism movies to watch with your loved ones. Feel free to let me know how you enjoy them!

~Sarah Merly, Editorial Assistant & Reporter

Front Page


Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings delivers his final State of the County address June 5 at the Orange County Convention Center, highlighting accomplishments from his nearly eight years in office before later announcing he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer and was suspending his campaign for governor. | Photo by Teresa Sargeant

Other Front Page News: 

Other Local News

Proposed 7-Eleven for Shoppes at East Shore remains under review 

City staff, applicant disagree over design standards.

Wekiva grad scores full ride to MIT, guaranteed Amazon internship

Daniel Idowu to study computer science

Community Health Centers welcomes two new board members 

Center expands Apopka site by 7,000 square feet.

Orange County Public Schools offering free summer meals for children 

Many locations in Apopka are distribution sites for program.

90-year-old Apopka man dies following Kelly Park Road crash 

FHP says driver may have suffered medical episode before crash.

Police Beat: APD issues 65 citations May 31 – June 6

In the period from May 31-June 6, 2026, the Apopka Police Department received 1,668 calls for service, responded to 27 crashes, issued 65 citations, and made 24 arrests.

Apopka announces July Fourth Celebration

Apopka Amphitheater to welcome Private Stock Band (PSB)

Orange County considers stormwater utility fee for unincorporated properties 

Public feedback to help shape proposal before commissioners decide

UF Trustees unanimously pick Dr. Stuart Bell president-elect

Selection subject to approval by Florida Board of Governors

Opinions: Rep. Doug Bankson, Mayor Nick Nesta and Jake Vest

Local Sports


Channing Crawford prepares for the incoming pitch in the bottom of the third inning. | Photo by Vinnie Cammarano

Lifestyle

Apopka Historical Fact: Site of the Smith House (447 S. Alabama Ave.)

“This was the house of Agnes Smith, who welcomed soldiers’ wives into her home during World War II. H.H. Witherington built it in 1887 of virgin yellow pine.”

~Apopka Historical Trail by Steve Rajtar