PUBLISHED WORKS

In this article, I cover the Walk for Life organized by Apopka's Above and Beyond Pregnancy Center. The event, held on Saturday, brought together community members to raise awareness and support for the center's mission to provide assistance to individuals facing unplanned pregnancies. The walk not only raised funds but also served as a powerful reminder of the community’s commitment to supporting life and advocating for those in need. I highlight the heartwarming atmosphere, the stories shared by participants, and the impact of the center's services.

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​In this article, I report on the Apopka City Council's decision to table the open container permit request for the Market on Fifth Street. The council expressed concerns regarding parking arrangements and potential costs to the city. Despite these issues, the market, organized by Propagate Social House, has shown growth since its inception in March 2024, expanding from 12 to 35 vendors and attracting approximately 200 attendees weekly. The council's decision highlights the need for further discussions to address logistical and financial considerations before proceeding.​The

In this article, I cover Apopka's second annual New Year's Eve ball drop held on December 31st at Hurricane Grill & Wings. The event featured live entertainment, including a Calypso band and DJ Ricky, along with a "Jeep Showdown" competition with categories like Best Decorated Jeep and Most Upgraded Jeep. Attendees enjoyed food and drink specials throughout the evening, culminating in a champagne toast at midnight to ring in 2025. The ball, crafted by the Apopka High School Engineering Class with funding from the Rotary Club of Apopka, added a unique touch to the celebration.

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In this article, I report on the Apopka City Council's recent consideration of a proposal to develop mountain biking facilities within the city. The early-stage proposal includes the construction of a pump track and adaptive trail designed to accommodate riders of all skill levels. Preliminary estimates suggest that the project could cost between $600,000 and $700,000. This initiative aligns with Apopka's broader efforts to enhance active transportation options, as evidenced by the approval of a city-wide trail network aimed at connecting key destinations and promoting walkability and bikeability. Additionally, nearby Orlando's Lake Druid Park offers mountain biking amenities, such as a pump track and single-track trail, highlighting regional support for cycling infrastructure.

In this article, I highlight the City of Apopka's third annual "Celebrating Legends of Apopka" event, held on February 25, 2025, at the Apopka Community Center. Organized by the Apopka Youth Council, the event honored twenty-eight distinguished African American individuals who have significantly contributed to the community's rich history. The evening featured heartfelt presentations, a special proclamation by Mayor Bryan Nelson, musical performances, and the unveiling of Volume 3 of the "Celebrating Legends of Apopka" booklet, which profiles these remarkable individuals. This initiative underscores Apopka's commitment to recognizing and preserving its diverse cultural heritage.

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In this article, I report on the Apopka City Council's unanimous approval of Dr. Lovetta Quinn-Henry as the new Deputy Chief of the Apopka Police Department (APD). Dr. Quinn-Henry brings 25 years of experience from the Orlando Police Department, where she held various leadership roles across divisions such as Uniform Patrol, Criminal Investigations, Special Operations, Accreditation and Inspections, Public Information, and the Orlando International Airport. She also led the Critical Incident Stress Management Team during significant events like the Pulse Nightclub shooting and citywide protests. Dr. Quinn-Henry holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, a master's in public administration, and a Ph.D. in philosophy. She is expected to start her role with the APD on May 1, 2025, and is anticipated to succeed retiring Chief Michael McKinley later this year.

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In this article, I cover the City of Apopka's new plan to address flooding issues at Border Lake. The city is investing $100,000 in short-term solutions, including a pumping system to manage water levels. For long-term relief, the city is working with Orange County on a project to divert excess water to a retention pond.

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In this article, I report on the City of Apopka's ongoing water meter replacement program, which aims to enhance billing accuracy by replacing older meters with advanced technology. This initiative seeks to reduce the necessity for estimated billing and address previous challenges with malfunctioning meters. The program has led to a more precise measurement of water usage, contributing to improved revenue collection and better water resource management.

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In this article for The Apopka Voice, I reported on Apopka’s participation in Denim Day — a global movement to raise awareness about sexual violence and support survivors. The story highlights city officials, community members, and advocates who wore denim in solidarity, emphasizing education, empathy, and empowerment. With a focus on social impact and civic engagement, this piece reflects how a simple outfit choice became a powerful statement for change.

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In this article, I cover the recognition of six Apopka Firefighters who were awarded scholarships from the 2650 Foundation to attend a Vehicle and Machinery Rescue (VMR) certification course. This prestigious scholarship allows the recipients—Engineer Stephen DeMatties, Engineer Sean Potter, Firefighter EMT Racquel Lopez, Firefighter Paramedic Juan Millan, Firefighter EMT John Paul, and Firefighter Dominic—to enhance their skills for complex rescue situations. The 2650 Foundation, created in honor of fallen firefighter Austin Duran, remains committed to supporting first responders with critical training opportunities to better serve the community. I highlight the ceremony, the importance of VMR certification, and the foundation’s ongoing efforts to empower local heroes.

In this article, I report on the City of Apopka's ongoing deliberations regarding the selection processes for two pivotal positions: Fire Chief and Economic Development Director. Following the resignation of Economic Development Director Michelle Boylan after just nine months, the city is reassessing its approach to filling this role. Similarly, the search for a new Fire Chief remains unresolved, with discussions on the process yet to be finalized. These developments underscore the city's commitment to strategic leadership in public safety and economic growth.

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In this article, I report on the 16th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade held on January 20, 2025, in Apopka, Florida. The parade, organized by the South Apopka Ministerial Alliance, featured the theme "Committed to Unity." The procession began at 519 South Central Avenue and concluded at the John H. Bridges Community Center. The event celebrated Dr. King's legacy by promoting community unity and featured participants from various local organizations. ​

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In this article, I report on Apopka's ongoing efforts to enhance its parks, trails, and recreational facilities. The city is progressing with multiple projects aimed at enriching community spaces and promoting active lifestyles. These initiatives include the development of new parks, expansion of existing trails, and upgrades to recreational amenities, reflecting Apopka's commitment to providing high-quality public spaces for residents and visitors alike. ​

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In this article, I report on the Apopka City Council's official proclamation of FFA Week from February 15th to 22nd, celebrating the contributions of the Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapter. The council's recognition underscores the importance of agricultural education and the FFA's role in developing leadership and career skills among students. This initiative reflects Apopka's commitment to honoring organizations that enrich the community and provide valuable opportunities for youth development.

In this article, I report on the Apopka City Council's ongoing discussions regarding the Apopka Rotary's proposal for a new community center at 797 Wells Street. The council is actively seeking solutions to address various challenges associated with the project, including funding, design, and community impact considerations. This initiative reflects the council's commitment to enhancing community facilities and fostering partnerships with local organizations. ​

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In this article, I report on the Apopka City Council's recognition of Forest Lake Academy students for their recent Day of Service. As part of Forest Lake Academy's commitment to fostering a culture of service, students participated in community projects, including assisting the Davis Lodge with painting and landscaping efforts. The council's acknowledgment highlights the positive impact of these initiatives on the local community.

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In this piece for The Apopka Voice, I covered the city’s heartfelt celebration of International Firefighters' Day — a tribute to the brave men and women who put their lives on the line daily. The article highlights the community's deep appreciation, shares insights from local leaders, and captures the emotion and pride of the day’s events. Through detailed reporting and vivid storytelling, this article brings readers into the center of Apopka’s firehouse pride.

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In this article for The Apopka Voice, I covered how the Apopka Police Department and City Council came together to raise awareness and foster inclusion for individuals with autism. The story sheds light on the city’s efforts to promote understanding through training, community partnerships, and visual symbols of support. With a focus on advocacy and accessibility, this piece highlights how local leadership is working to create a more inclusive community for all.

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