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It's Debate Day! Stream the 2026 Apopka Mayoral Debate. Visit WESH.com to watch the live stream starting at 5:30PMIt's Debate Day! Stream the 2026 Apopka Mayoral Debate. Visit WESH.com to watch the live stream starting at 5:30PM

Author

  • JC Derrick

    J.C. Derrick is publisher for The Apopka Chief. He spent 18 years covering sports, education, and politics in Texas and Washington, D.C., before joining The Apopka Chief in 2025. J.C. is a member of the Florida Press Association Board of Directors.

Apopka girls lacrosse begins its season against Winter Park
February 17, 2023
The Apopka Blue Darters girls lacrosse team began its 2023 season Monday, February 13, with a home match against the Winter Park Wildcats. See more on…
Apopka, Wekiva wrestlers take part in Metro tournament
February 17, 2023
Wekiva’s James Mixon, wrestling in the 285 lb. (Heavyweight) division, turns an opponent to his back. See more photos on page 4B.
Even though it’s still February, seasons change for sports
February 17, 2023
Except for the Wekiva boys basketball team as well as boys and girls wrestling teams, high school sports in our area have moved on to spring…
Despite loss in district title game, Mustangs still No. 1 seed in region
February 17, 2023
The banner commemorating the Wekiva Mustangs boys basketball 2017 district championship will still hang alone from the rafters of Mustang Arena. More photos on page 4B.
AHS softball team must replace three four-year players
February 17, 2023
Three of 2022’s seniors – Aubrey Evans, Jesi Mora, and Avery Brewer – started all four years as Blue Darters, played infield positions, and hit in…
Apopka girls wrestle their way to 2nd place
February 17, 2023
Six members of the Apopka Blue Darters girls wrestling team claimed district titles Friday, February 10.
Jim Keck Goin' Fishin'
Fishin’ hasn’t been very good with lots wind howling
February 17, 2023
Hello Folks, I hope you had a great week. I wish I could say the fishin’ is fantastic right now but the gale force winds from…
Speed will be key for Apopka baseball
February 17, 2023
Blessed with plenty of team speed, the 2023 Apopka Blue Darters baseball team expects to play aggressively on the basepaths.
PEP: Season comes to an end for Apopka High boys basketball
February 10, 2023
After plating East Ridge in a District 7A-3 first-round game, the Apopka Blue Darters boys basketball team saw its season come to an end on Wednesday,…
A.O.K. Tire Mart recommends a coolant flush to get maximum performance from your vehicle
February 10, 2023
A coolant flush and fill is an important part of preventative maintenance for your cooling system and will help ensure maximum performance from your car’s heating…
Developer wins suit, can build affordable housing at City CenterThe Apopka Chief
December 2, 2022
A circuit court judge ruled this week that the city of Apopka cannot restrict the type of housing in the Apopka City Center.
Wildlife Drive sparrowThe Apopka Chief
December 2, 2022
This sparrow is one of many species that can be found at the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive. The drive is a one-way, 11-mile drive meandering through…
Seasons under way for Apopka boys, girls basketball teamsThe Apopka Chief
December 2, 2022
Janiya Johnson (1) battles Osceola players for possession of the ball on Saturday, November 26. See more photos on page 4B.
Jim Keck Goin' Fishin'
More boat ramps are beginning to be re-opened after stormsThe Apopka Chief
December 2, 2022
Hello Folks, I hope you have recovered from your Thanksgivin’ feast and you are ready to go fishin’. I did some checkin’ this week to see…
Blue Darters will play in state semifinal gameThe Apopka Chief
December 2, 2022
For the fourth straight season, the Apopka Blue Darters will play in the large-school state semifinals.
Apopka builds lead, keeps Rams at bayThe Apopka Chief
December 2, 2022
Apopka’s 30 points were the second most scored by the Blue Darters this season. See more photos on page 8B.
AHS boys basketball starts 1-1The Apopka Chief
December 2, 2022
Apopka was led in scoring by Daren Leath with 11 points and Adam Bracy, who had 10.
Traveling this holiday? J & K Automotive, Inc. can help keep your loved ones safe while on the roadThe Apopka Chief
November 25, 2022
       In early November, AAA predicted more than 53.4 million people would be expected to travel. This forecast marks the highest single-year increase in…
Most dogs love Thanksgiving, and we do mean LOVE. Why? For the table scraps of course!The Apopka Chief
November 25, 2022
Thanksgiving time is here. While you likely have all the ingredients for a delicious Thanksgiving dinner, your dog’s health and safety may not have crossed your…
Beginning a new jobThe Apopka Chief
November 25, 2022
Former Apopka City Commisioner Doug Bankson (second from l) shows his nameplate and seat in the Florida State Capitol in Tallahassee after the newly elected Florida…