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Articles by Denise Connell
Q: What’s new and coming to The Apopka Voice? - The Apopka Voice
Reggie and I are excited to share some improvements and new features on The Apopka Voice. Our hope is that each feature will give more opportunity for your voice to be heard, your events attended, your garage sales, house sales, car/boat/household items selling, and your creative endeavors inspiring Apopka and beyond. Here’s how we want to help you do just that: The Apopka Voice wants to hear your voice, thoughts, and opinions on important issues affecting the city and your neighborhoods.
Thank you, Nietzsche! - The Apopka Voice
By Denise Connell, Publisher; Éclairity.org Founder We're sitting at a bar in Baltimore, its counter running 15 feet, with a top of triple-wide 2x6’s overly glazed with polyurethane. Hanging bulbs strike straight down, their light intensifying the thick shine of the bar’s surface, revealing wide dark veins and stretched-out knots magnified in the wood below. It's attracting, intriguing, and kind of distracting. I look up.
Following the unknown can lead to inspiration - The Apopka Voice
By Denise Connell, Publisher; Éclairity.org Founder The window was opened, and that made all the difference. It was a normal Tuesday afternoon with nothing on the horizon but tapping keys, jotting notes, and moving the day’s agenda to completion. Sitting at my desk for hours straight – something I keep telling myself not to keep doing – I was determined this would be the day I’d finally tear the to-do list to shreds and toss it in the trash, triumphant at last.
Out of chaos…genius - The Apopka Voice
By Denise Connell, Publisher; Éclairity.org Founder “In the beginning there was Chaos… “ While this might sound like the start of any given Monday – getting your kids to school, rushing to make your sales meeting, finishing that pesky project by the 10am deadline – it is actually the first line of the Greek creation story. “In the beginning there was Chaos, a yawning nothingness.” I’m not Greek, but I could relate. Especially last week.
She just decided to. - The Apopka Voice
By Denise Connell, Publisher; Éclairity.org Founder If you have ever wondered if it's "too late" to start, or try, or do something you've always wanted to do, take heart from my friend who continues to inspire me today. She told me one day that she wanted to paint. “I don’t think I’d be very good at it,” she said. Why not? I asked. “I’m just not that creative. And I don’t know the first thing about it. And I doubt I’ll do it. But... I don’t know... I’d like to try. Maybe someday.” She was 47, I was 34.
A step-by-step to the dream-releasing 12-Rectangle Solution, Part 3 - The Apopka Voice
By Denise Connell, Publisher; Éclairity.org Founder This weekend we're diving into the nuts and bolts of the 12-Rectangle Solution. If you need a quick summary from Part 1 and 2, try this: Part 1: If you want your dream or goal to be accomplished, bring it into the light, visualize its reality, and pay attention to it with your time and focus. Like the rectangle blanket for our cats, and like their brush in the rectangle receptacle…what’s visible and acted upon nets rewards.
The 12-Rectangle Solution, Part 1 - The Apopka Voice
By Denise Connell, Publisher; Éclairity.org Founder The power of a pet’s inspiration is provocative. If you’re an animal lover, you know the truth of it, and our two house “coaches” – Milo & Snow - are no exception. (Before I share their latest spark delivered this week, you have to meet them. Here they are as baby brothers back in 2008: And here they are today: Milo is the orange & white cuddler, and Snow is the phantom of our opera.) Sleeping options abound in our house for these two.
Make Room for the Fire - The Apopka Voice
Sparks ignited here Posted Saturday, January 27, 2024 8:51 pm What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters, compared to what lies within us.” The Apopka Voice will soon be launching a new page where you can share your sparks and dreams-in-action, creative ideas, writings, photos, “local hero” stories of neighbors who make a difference, give a kudos/thank you to a local person or business, or pass on good news that needs to be celebrated. Look for more to come...
Nelson: "We've got the financial house in order"
Editor’s Note: Earlier this month, The Apopka Voice sat down with Commissioner Kyle Becker and Mayor Bryan Nelson. The two 90-minute interviews were an informative look at the two candidates running to be mayor of Apopka in 2022. We began this four-part series by analyzing the contrasts between Becker and Nelson. In part two, we compared the approach Becker and Nelson would employ in the potential annexation of South Apopka.
Data-driven, fact based preparation is the cornerstone of Becker's leadership style
Editor’s Note: Earlier this month, The Apopka Voice sat down with Commissioner Kyle Becker and Mayor Bryan Nelson. The two 90-minute interviews were an informative look at the two candidates running to be mayor of Apopka in 2022. We began this four-part series by analyzing the contrasts between Becker and Nelson. In part two, we compared the approach Becker and Nelson would employ in the potential annexation of South Apopka.
5 Ways cannabis users can consume in 2021
By Anna Marie Jackson The consumption of marijuana has changed over the years. Smoking marijuana is not the only way to consume it now, but rather there are many other ways to use pot. Different methods can be used for smoking weed as well. Marijuana legalization has allowed for more research into how best to consume this plant and what works best for each person’s needs, and thus, in the last few decades, people have been changing their methods of consumption.
Despite multiple offers on city-owned Harmon Road properties, workshop on RSR golf course lands still scheduled for Tuesday
By Reggie Connell, Managing Editor Last week, the City of Apopka received a $6.5 million offer for the two city-owned properties on Harmon Road from Tony Benge, acting as a broker for Standard Investments and Holdings, LLC. This week, Apopka realtor Nick Nesta sent another offer for the property from Phillips Development and Realty for $6.55 million – $50,000 over the bid by Standard. It was the fourth offer made on the property in the last two weeks – ranging from $5 million to $6.55 million.
Apopka’s American Rescue Plan Funds to go Towards Healthcare
By Cindy Cummings According to insurance broker William Russell, it will cost the average American $7,470 a year for an individual healthcare plan – however, the cost may be higher depending on geographic location, age, and the type of plan enrolled in. Not all companies offer healthcare plans; in fact 44% of employers don’t offer insurance coverage to their staff, so organizing this essential expense is down to the individual. This past year, the cost of healthcare has increased.
Florida marijuana agency seeks to double workforce to handle pending boom
By John Haughey, The Center Square The Florida Department of Health (DOH) is expected to issue up to 27 new medical marijuana treatment center (MMTCs) licenses by July 1, 2023, more than doubling the availability of legal cannabis products that already support a $1.3 billion industry in the Sunshine State.
Everything coming to Hulu in November
From current episodes and original series to kids’ shows and hit movies, Hulu has something for everyone. Here is what’s coming to Hulu in November 2021.
Attend some of Melbourne’s best annual festivals
By Varintorn Awaiyawanon Melbourne has no shortage of annual events and as a city, they are absolutely mad for sports. Here are the top events which are held in Melbourne that you should attempt to experience during your visit. AFL Grand Final September is the peak of footy fever in Melbourne. The AFL Grand Final is held during this month and is a must-see for anyone interested in experiencing the game.
The Best Places to Live in Florida
By George Hyland Not only is real estate booming in Florida, but there are many reasons that make the sunshine state amazing! Let’s look at a few places that are great for investment. Orlando Here is the capital of fun, a place where adults, young people and children come to its great parks such as the Walt Disney World Resort or the wonderful Universal Orlando Resort center. The cost of living is very affordable given that this is becoming the place of greatest tourist attraction.
The Increasing Importance of Elderly Care
By George Hyland It’s no secret that the world’s elderly population is growing. This is a good thing, with people living longer than ever before, but it can also put a strain on society. Elderly care is more important than ever before, and this makes it hard for some people to get the help they need. But what are the main issues that impact this industry? Let’s take a look at this complicated topic to find out.
Things You Should Know Before Going into the Construction Sector
By Olivia Parkinson Construction can involve building structures, supervising work-in-progress at construction sites, procurement, or managing different projects. All these job descriptions need a person who has the right qualifications and information. Understanding the main things to do with working in the construction sector can help you decide whether to go on with that business or not.
2021 Gift ideas for the Elderly in health
By Cora Buffay The holiday season is upon us, with Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year just around the corner. Have you thought about what kind of gift you have prepared for your parents or grandparents? How about giving some wellness gifts, because the health of the elders is what we can help make possible, and what they most need and desire. I don’t know if you have ever made a wish such as: “I hope my parents are safe and healthy.” I remember that I did, and do it every year.
Everything New on Amazon Prime Video for November
November 1 50/50 (2011) Alien (1979) Alien 3 (1992) Alien Resurrection (1997) Alien Vs. Predator (2004) Alpha Dog (2005) American Assassin (2017) Born On The Fourth Of July (1989) Bringing Down The House (2003) Casanova, Last Love (2021) Cast Away (2000) Children Of Men (2006) Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011) Dan In Real Life (2007) Dead Poets Society (1989) Dragonball Evolution (2009) Dude, Where’s My Car?
The Race to be Mayor: Becker and Nelson weigh the options of annexing South Apopka
Editor’s Note: Earlier this month, The Apopka Voice sat down with Commissioner Kyle Becker and Mayor Bryan Nelson. The two 90-minute interviews were an informative look at the two candidates running to be mayor of Apopka in 2022. We began this four-part series by analyzing the contrasts between Becker and Nelson. In parts three and four, we conclude with comprehensive features on both candidates, and their plans to move Apopka forward in the coming term.
Class action on behalf of juveniles under solitary confinement gets okay to proceed
Barbed wire. Photo by Alex Potemkin. by Issac Morgan, Florida Phoenix A federal judge has ruled that a group of young offenders can sue the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice over its use of solitary confinement in its detention centers, policies civil rights groups call cruel and harmful to juveniles’ mental health.
October ends in Apopka with Beautiful Bobby Blackmon and kicks off November with Stereo FM
From Staff Reports The City of Apopka’s Saturday Sounds concert series continues strong this weekend, with plans ready to go for November and December. Just in time for the holidays, there’s plenty to look forward to with this series, especially as the weather grows cool and the evening stars popping out earlier. These family-friendly and free concerts take place each Saturday night at the Apopka Amphitheater from 5pm – 7pm.
An infectious disease expert explains new federal rules on ‘mix-and-match’ vaccine booster shots - The Apopka Voice
Discuss with your doctor whether or not you need a booster – and if so, which vaccine will work best for you. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images News via Getty Images By Glenn J. Rapsinski, Pediatric Infectious Diseases Fellow, University of Pittsburgh Health Sciences Many Americans now have the green light to get a COVID-19 vaccine booster – and the flexibility to receive a different brand than the original vaccine they received. On the heels of the Food and Drug Administration’s Sept.
The Race to be Mayor: Becker and Nelson differ on almost every subject
Editor’s Note: Earlier this month, The Apopka Voice interviewed Commissioner Kyle Becker and Mayor Bryan Nelson. The two 90-minute interviews were an informative look at the two candidates running to be Mayor of Apopka in 2022. In this four-part series, we start by analyzing the contrasts between Becker and Nelson.
Apopka Police Department Arrest Report
APD Arrest Report for October 19th-25th The Apopka Police Department reported the following statistics: Calls For Service 1,526 Traffic Citations 33 Crash Reports 35 Arrests 10 Arrest Date Charges Name City Age 10/24/2021 LARC PETIT THEFT FROM MERCHANT 3RD SUBSQ OFF BOHNERT, MICHAEL RYAN ORLANDO 31 10/21/2021 DUI-UNLAW BLD ALCH DUI INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL OR DRUGS DIAZ, DAVID APOPKA 43 10/21/2021 DUI-UNLAW BLD ALCH REFUSE TO SUBMIT DUI TEST AFTER LIC SUSP DIAZ, DAVID APOPKA 43 10/21/2021 RESIST...
Apopka road wins 2021 Corridor of the Year, thanks to HOA, volunteers and Orange Co. Commissioner Moore
Team members of Wekiva Ridge beautified their entranceway prior to the Oct. 16, 2021 day of judging for COY From the Office of Orange County Commissioner Christine Moore, District 2 Along Wekiwa Springs Rd. you may have noticed the large signs at either end, between SR 436 and Welch Road, proclaiming the road the winner of the 2021 District 2 Corridor of the Year (COY) Contest.
Everything coming and going on HBO Max in November
This November, we’re thankful for the parade of original programming coming to HBO Max all month long! Highlights include King Richard starring Will Smith, The Sex Lives of College Girls, 8-bit Christmas, and Kamikaze.
What can Renters Expect in Apopka’s Property Market?
Marden Ridge Loop apartments in Apopka By Cindy Cummings Apopka has a red-hot property market – both in terms of home purchasing and rentals. The Orlando Business Journal has highlighted yet another acquisition for the development of mixed-use residential lots, this time with $4.6 million being put down, just off Roosevelt Nichols Park. With more properties flying up, renters might be interested to see if they can get a better deal or perhaps move to a better area of the city.
AAA: Florida gas prices stabilize after another 13 cent jump
Gas prices have been dragged higher by skyrocketing crude oil prices worldwide as global fuel demand is outpacing global production and supply levels From AAA Florida gas prices stabilized over the weekend after rising another 13 cents, last week. The state average now sits at $3.31 per gallon. That’s a new 2021 high and the most expensive daily average price since October 2014. Florida pump prices have climbed a total of 26 cents this month.
Tips for Staying Healthy and Avoiding COVID
Besides getting vaccinated, be sure to boost your immune system, use these tips while traveling, and learn how to tell the difference between COVID and other illnesses By Shelby Toth Avoiding Covid-19 is still important, even as cases in Florida trend downwards. To help ensure that you can avoid the virus as much as possible and stay healthy, here are four tips that you should keep in mind. 1.
Apopka Burglary Report
APD Burglary Report: October 17th-23rd The Apopka Burglary Report for October 17th-23rd shows seven burglaries reported in Apopka.
4 reasons Americans are still seeing empty shelves and long waits – with Christmas just around the corner - The Apopka Voice
Consumers are still finding bare store shelves. AP Photo / David Zalubowski There are four primary – and interrelated – reasons for the continuing crunch. And unfortunately for many, they won’t be resolved by the holidays. By Kevin Ketels, Lecturer, Global Supply Chain Management, Wayne State University Walk into any U.S. store these days and you’re likely to see empty shelves.
Everything coming to Disney Plus in November
Disney+ is the dedicated streaming home for entertainment from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, and more, alongside exclusive Disney+ Originals.
6 Smart Ways to Save Money on Groceries
By Allen Brown Are you sick of paying through the nose for groceries? Well, it’s time to take action. Grocery stores are notorious for overcharging customers and charging more than is necessary. If you want to save money on groceries, then keep reading. This article will show you 6 smart ways to save money on groceries so that your wallet can stay fat! Buy in Bulk Buying in bulk is a great way to save money on groceries.
How to Make a Business Card That Fits Your Business
By Olivia Jennings Did you know that business cards date back to 15th century China? Not only did the Middle Kingdom come up with paper, but they perfected their creation by making it a useful instrument for trading business information. As of today, business cards are real deal makers for your business. About 72% of potential customers form their idea of a company based on the quality and style of their business card.
All the new titles coming to Netflix in November
All the new titles coming to Netflix in November
Thank you readers! The Apopka Voice hits another milestone
Apopka’s local online news site publishes its 10,000th article From Staff Reports It started with a parade. On December 12th, 2015, The Apopka Voice covered its first live event in the community – the 39th Annual Apopka Christmas Parade. And now, in 2021, we are still going strong. The Apopka Voice crossed a milestone last week when we published our 10,000th article. That’s enough content to fill over 60 novels.
Drug-import plan would save Florida $150 million first year after federal OK
Photo by James Yarema @jamesyarema Florida’s importation plan complies with all FDA regulatory requirements and provides Floridians access to essential medications at significant cost savings to taxpayers By John Haughey, The Center Square Florida will save an estimated $150 million if two phases of its proposed prescription-drug importation program are fully implemented during the first year after a plan state lawmakers adopted three years ago is approved by federal regulators.
Talk of putting wind turbines off Florida is little more than a lot of hot air
Photo by Nicholas Doherty @nrdoherty Opinion By Craig Pittman, Florida Phoenix I grew up playing on the beaches near Pensacola — splashing in the surf, collecting shells, building sandcastles. To me, those shimmering white dunes and bobbing sea oats are more of a signifier of Florida-ness than all the citrus boxes, seafood platters, and theme parks put together. Even the serendipity of Florida beaches tickles my fancy.
8 Simple Tips for Planning a Wedding
By Daisy Jack How often have you fantasized about your dream wedding? Tying the knot with your one true love is a big deal. You want the day to be perfect and memorable. There are a lot of questions that come into play when planning a wedding. Questions about venues, types of weddings, and who to invite can be a major source of stress in planning the perfect wedding. Regardless, you want it to be a day you’ll never forget. So how do you create the wedding of your dreams?
Proposed buyer of RSR gopher tortoise conservation area: "The contract is expired and the deal is dead"
The gopher tortoise lands on Kelly Park Road By Reggie Connell, Managing Editor Dr. Wade Foster, the owner of Eloise Holdings LLC and the proposed buyer of the 51-acre Kelly Park Road property, also called the gopher tortoise conservation area, confirmed to The Apopka Voice that the contract between Eloise Holdings LLC and the Rock Springs Ridge Homeowners Association has expired, and he has no intention of making an offer on the property.
Raising Your Kids Well: Small But Significant Steps
By George Hyland Raising children can often feel like a full time job in itself. The good news is that it will be the most rewarding work you do in your life. Of course, it can be difficult to know what to do at times. When you have kids, there isn’t a guidebook you’re handed on how to raise them well. Instead, it’s often a journey that you’ll have to figure out yourself.
Former Apopka Fire Chief Carnesale clarifies his position on AFD two-person "squads"
Editor’s Note: Chuck Carnesale, the former Apopka Fire Chief from 2016-2019, sent The Apopka Voice a letter to the editor clarifying his opinion on the two-person squad trucks used by the AFD during his tenure as Chief. Opinion By Chuck Carnesale, Former Apopka Fire Chief I would like to take this opportunity to write to you to clarify a statement made a few weeks ago at a city budget meeting where a discussion was being held about adding an additional firefighter to each Apopka fire engine.
How vast is your potential for good?
Faith & Inspiration By Charles Towne Wow! That is a question that deserves an answer! I am not accustomed to hearing voices, and if I was I probably wouldn’t admit it for fear of being thought somewhat strange. (Yes, I know, I am a tad strange – but just a tad mind you! But there was a time when…) Well, it has been thirty or more years, and I was in a desperate place in my life. One night I had gone to bed, and as I laid there, I called out to God, “Dear Papa God, I need your help.
Florida to convene special session to ban private employer vaccine mandates
The Florida State Capitol buildings (Old Capitol in foreground) in Tallahassee. Shutterstock photo Governor DeSantis wants a law on the books banning employer vaccine mandates by year’s end, and also wants lawmakers to ensure Florida’s ‘Parents’ Bill of Rights’ is “fortified” By John Haughey, The Center Square Gov.
Orange County's rolling COVID positivity rate below 5% for 10 consecutive days
75% of Orange County residents ages 12+ have received at least 1 dose of the COVID-19 vaccination Orange County Health Services does not ask for an individual’s social security number or proof of residency to receive a vaccine From the Orange County Newsroom As of Wednesday, October 20, 2021, the Florida Department of Health is reporting that Orange County’s 14-day rolling positivity rate for COVID-19 is 4.09 percent.
Long-awaited workshop on RSR Golf Course, Harmon Road, gopher tortoise lands announced by City
By Reggie Connell, Managing Editor The waiting is over. After months of speculation, mystery, drama, and unknowns, the City of Apopka announced a workshop on its website scheduled for November 2nd, 6-8 pm at the Apopka Amphitheater to discuss the details related to the RSR Homeowners Association’s attempt to purchase the RSR golf course lands.
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