Mayoral debate airs on WESH 2, Wyld Oaks appoints COO

The Apopka Chief Newsletter: July 24 Edition

Author

Sarah Merly
July 24, 2026

Welcome to The Apopka Chief weekly newsletter!

Happy Friday—and happy National Drive-Thru Day! Today’s a wonderful opportunity to stop by your favorite Apopka drive-thru restaurant for coffee or a quick meal. Thank you for supporting our local businesses throughout the year, and happy reading!

~Sarah Merly, Editorial Assistant & Reporter

Front Page


From left, Orange County mayoral candidates Mayra Uribe, Stephanie Murphy, Tiffany Moore Russell and Chris Messina face off in the 2026 debate. | Courtesy of WESH 2 News

Other Front Page News: 

Other Local News

Commission to revisit proposed tax rate after budget impasse 

Staff compares millage options

DRC clarifies resubmittal policy during development reviews 

Committee reviews Paulucci Acres, Kelly Park, other proposals

Q&A: U.S. House District 11 candidates talk priorities, Webster’s legacy

Five Republicans seek Rep. Daniel Webster’s seat

7 back-to-school checks for Apopka families

A quick checklist for first-week planning before OCPS classes resume

Commission ratifies 'Trooper Steve' Montiero as Apopka public information director 

Mayor says new department will boost transparency and communication

Dunkin' Donuts to celebrate National Drive-Thru Day with giveaways

National Drive-Thru Day takes place Friday

Police Beat: Apopka police arrest 26, work 36 crashes July 12-18

In the period from July 12-18, 2026, the Apopka Police Department received 1,627 calls for service, responded to 30 crashes, issued 79 citations, and made 26 arrests.

Local Sports


A group of kids along with AHS WR Nyzier Collington, swarm a ballcarrier during the flag football game at Apopka Community Sports Day. | Photo by Vinnie Cammarano

Lifestyle

Apopka Historical Fact: Wheatley Elementary School

“Developers Hunt and Davies opened Wheatley Subdivision in 1926. It included five acres for this school, which cost $5,700. It is named for Phillis Wheatley, an 18th century black poet.”

-Apopka Historical Trail by Steve Rajtar