Happy Wednesday South Laker!

Today we’re leading with big news for local job training. We’re also breaking down our latest poll results on how rising property assessments are impacting local tax bills.

Plus, we’ve got early voting info for the upcoming primary, a shoutout for a local veteran taking home gold in national archery, overstuffed Philly-style cheesesteaks at Daniel's Express, and a spotlight on 4C Print Shop.

Let’s dive in.

— Charlie Ferrer

South Lake County just got a major boost for local job training. Lake Technical College has secured a $3.7 million appropriation in Florida's 2026-2027 state budget to accelerate construction of the Lake Tech South Campus in Clermont.

The funding will help transform the South Campus into a 55,000-square-foot career and technical education facility, expanding access to hands-on training in high-demand fields.

Why it matters: Right now, many residents drive to Orlando for advanced technical training. This expansion brings that opportunity home by giving local students and workers a direct path into high-wage careers without leaving Clermont.

Poll Results: Rising Values Wipe Out Rate Cuts

With annual Truth in Millage (TRIM) notices, we asked Clermont homeowners how their estimated property tax bills have changed over the last two years. With 21 total votes submitted, the community want local efforts to trim millage rates.

The Bottom Line: Over 80% of Clermont homeowners polled are feeling the financial impact of higher property assessments. While local officials work to balance budgets and millage rates, rising real estate values mean the bottom-line estimate for most residents continues to climb.

Does your State Treasury Department have money owed to you?

Search your name and state to check if you may appear in unclaimed property records, including funds from accounts, refunds, or deposits.

Search for Money

P.S. States hold onto billions in forgotten funds from old account balances, uncashed refunds, and utility deposits that never made it to the right address. It only takes a minute to search your name and state to see if anything is waiting for you.

South Lake is growing! Step up and secure your perfect home in one of Florida's fastest-growing, top-rated communities!

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Early Voting Begins
Early voting for the 2026 Primary Election opens Thursday, August 6, giving Lake County voters a head start before Election Day. Registered voters can cast ballots at designated polling sites across the county — including local hubs in Clermont and Minneola — through August 15. Election officials encourage residents to review sample ballots and confirm polling hours in advance.

Veteran Gold Medalist
South Lake resident and U.S. military veteran Nelson González won gold in archery at the National Veterans Golden Age Games, competing against hundreds of senior veterans from across the country. His precision and skill brought home top honors for the region, and local veteran organizations are celebrating the win as a point of pride for the South Lake community.

Education Gala Milestone
The Education Foundation of Lake County marked the 20th anniversary of its "Stepping Out for Education" fundraiser, its annual celebrity dance competition that brings community leaders together to support local schools. Proceeds fund classroom grants, student scholarships, and educational programs throughout the district.

Local Arts Grants
Several Lake County artists have received grant funding to launch public art projects, expand studio space, and run creative workshops across the area. The initiative aims to strengthen South Lake's cultural scene and create economic opportunities for local creatives. Recipients will showcase their work at public venues in Clermont and surrounding cities later this year.

Veterans Benefits Expo
Lake County is hosting a free Veterans Resources and Benefits Expo in Clermont, connecting former service members with healthcare, financial aid, and career resources. Representatives from state and federal agencies will be on hand to offer one-on-one help with VA claims and other support services.

Groveland Honors Pioneer
The City of Groveland issued a proclamation honoring longtime resident Willie James Williams on his 85th birthday, recognizing decades of community leadership, advocacy, and service to South Lake County. Family, neighbors, and civic leaders gathered for the ceremony to celebrate his lasting local legacy.

Daniel's Cheesesteak Express has become the go-to spot for authentic, hot, overstuffed Philly-style cheesesteaks. Every sandwich is made fresh to order with tender chopped steak, melted cheese, and a soft roll built to hold all that savory goodness together. It's a quick, satisfying bite in a lively market setting, perfect for a fast lunch or a casual dinner.

What to order:

4C Print Shop is a reliable, locally owned custom printing company dedicated to bringing your graphic designs to life. From promotional apparel and custom banners to everyday business print materials, clients consistently praise the shop for its exceptional product quality, sharp color accuracy, and quick turnarounds.

What sets 4C apart is its hands-on approach. The team offers personalized guidance and design adjustments on every order, ensuring the final product doesn't just meet expectations, but exceeds them.

1 Million Cups Gathering | Clermont
📍 The View
🕰️ 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

Music Bingo - Hosted by FunkMaster K & Sweet Beatz | Clermont
📍 The View
🕰️ 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Downtown Clermont Run Group | Clermont
📍 741 W Montrose St.
🕰️ 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM

Wednesday Social Bike Ride | Clermont
📍 1675 Hancock Rd.
🕰️ 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Off Beat Bingo Night | Clermont
📍 Gatros Dockside Clermont
🕰️ 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Karoake Wednesdays at Mullets | Clermont
📍 Mullets
🕰️ 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Back to School Bash: Color Wars | Groveland
📍 Vision Church
🕰️ Starts at 6:30 PM

Justin Miller - LIVE Music | Clermont
📍 The Roasted Spirit
🕰️ 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Hayfire / Country Night | Clermont
📍 The Station
🕰️ 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Off Beat Bingo | Clermont
📍 Gators Dockside
🕰️ 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Friday Family Movie Night | Clermont
📍 First Baptist Clermont
🕰️ Starts at 6:30 PM

Dan Verduin - LIVE Music | Clermont
📍 The Roasted Spirit
🕰️ 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Groove Infusion - LIVE Music | Clermont
📍 The Station
🕰️ 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM

Late Night Karaoke | Clermont
📍 The Station
🕰️ 11:00 PM - 1:00 AM

Line Dance Party | Clermont
📍 The View
🕰️ 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Trivia Hosted by Puzzles Entertainment | Clermont
📍 The View
🕰️ 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

First Friday Chamber Connection | Clermont
📍620 W Montrose St
🕰️ 7:15 AM - 8:30 AM

Voice your concerns!

Groveland

CRA Task Force Meeting
📍 E. L. Puryear Building / Community Center
🕰️ August 5, 2:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Planning & Zoning Board Meeting
📍 E. L. Puryear Building / Community Center
🕰️ August 6, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

If you found something useful in this newsletter, pass it along to your friends and family, and especially those still looking for things to do.

See you in the next edition!