Happy Thursday South Laker!
Today we’re diving into a recent study that officially named Clermont a "commuter burnout hotspot," a title that won't surprise anyone navigating Highway 50 during rush hour. Despite the growing pains of our local infrastructure, we have a massive weekend ahead filled with festivals, local theater, and community cleanup efforts to keep our neighborhoods thriving.
Let’s dive in…
South Lake News: Why Clermont was named a top commuter hotspot
The Countdown: From Anime Night Markets to The Little Mermaid on stage
Weekend Lineup: Your full weekend events starts here
South Lake Homes: Two local homes for sale (one with a pool and no rear neighbors!)
South Lake Eats: Minneola’s best Quesabirria tacos
And more…
— Charlie Ferrer
🟠 South Lake News
Image credit to The City Government of Clermont
The Commute Struggle is Real
A recent study has officially named Clermont as a top "commuter burnout hotspot," and honestly, anyone who’s tried to navigate Highway 50 at 5:00 PM probably isn't shocked. The report looked at factors like average travel time, traffic congestion, and the physical toll of long drives on residents.
While our growth has brought us great new shops and parks, the infrastructure is clearly feeling the extra commuters every morning. In this case, this puts more pressure on local leaders to prioritize transit solutions and smart growth that keeps jobs closer to our neighborhoods.
How long is your average daily round-trip commute?
Poll Results
From our recent community poll in last newsletter edition:
Out of 12 total votes, “Volunteering my time” was the most popular way to give back to the South Lake community with 7 votes (58.33%). The rest of the responses included donating food or supplies (3 votes), financial donations (1 vote), and supporting local "spirit nights" (1 vote).
★ The Countdown
Image credit to Blueberry Hill Farm
The weekend offers amazing activities starting with the Friday Night Vibes Food Truck Event in Mascotte and it’s perfect for a community-centered evening meal.
On Saturday afternoon, the Anime Night Market takes over West Montrose Street in Clermont that brings together themed vendors and fans for a unique local experience.
Those looking to enjoy our natural beauty while giving back can join the Earth Day and Lake Clean Up at Lake Hiawatha Park early Saturday morning.
For a touch of local culture, the Lake-Sumter State College production of The Little Mermaid will be performing at the Clermont Arts and Recreation Center on Saturday evening.
Finally, families can enjoy the outdoors all weekend long with U-Pick Blueberries at both Blueberry Hill Farm and Southern Hill Farms. With options ranging from environmental service to theatrical performances, there is something for every South Laker this weekend.
🗓️ Weekend Lineup
You can submit an event here.
Thursday, April 23
Salsa Night at The View | Clermont
📍 The View
🕰️ 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
City Council Workshop | Groveland
📍 E. L. Puryear Building / Community Center
🕰️ 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Women’s Paint Night | Groveland
📍 20545 Independence Blvd. Suite B
🕰️ Starts at 6:30 PM
Friday, April 24
U-Pick Blueberries | Clermont
📍 Blueberry Hill Farm
🕰️ 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Crochet Workshop | Clermont
📍 South Lake Art League
🕰️ Starts at 6:30 PM
Arbor Day | Groveland
📍 Cherry Lake Park
🕰️ 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Friday Night Vibes Food Truck Event | Mascotte
📍 334 E Myers Blvd
🕰️ 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Saturday, April 25
Anime Night Market | Clermont
📍 752 West Montrose Street
🕰️ 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Earth Day and Lake Clean Up | Clermont
📍 Lake Hiawatha park
🕰️ Starts at 7:30 AM
LSSC Production: The Little Mermaid | Clermont
📍 Clermont Arts and Recreation Center
🕰️ 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
27th Annual World Tai Chi & QiGong Day Celebration | Clermont
📍 Lake Hiawatha Preserve - Lake Minneola side
🕰️ 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Her Radiance Rising Fest | Clermont
📍 Victory Pointe
🕰️ 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
AdventHealth U-Run U-Pick Blueberry 5K | Clermont
📍 Southern Hill Farms
🕰️ 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Spring U-Pick + Fun Zone | Clermont
📍 Southern Hill Farms
🕰️ 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
U-Pick Blueberries | Clermont
📍 Blueberry Hill Farm
🕰️ 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Ribbon Cutting - FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers | Clermont
📍 2400 Hooks Street
🕰️ 9:00 AM - 9:30 AM
Food of Nations | Clermont
📍 690 East Highway 50
🕰️ Starts at 11:00 AM
Independent Bookstore Day | Clermont
📍 697 Lake Avenue
🕰️ Starts at 11:00 AM
Blues at the Winery | Minneola
📍 Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards
🕰️ 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Quarterly Bird & Butterfly Survey | Minneola
📍 Ferndale Preserve
🕰️ 7:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Outdoor Adventure Series: E-Bike Ride | Groveland
📍 15001 Silver Eagle Trail
🕰️ 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Career and Health Fair | Mascotte
📍 Tedder / Thomas Civic Center Playground
🕰️ 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Sunday, April 26
U-Pick Blueberries | Clermont
📍 Blueberry Hill Farm
🕰️ 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Spring U-Pick + Fun Zone | Clermont
📍 Southern Hill Farms
🕰️ 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Farmers Market | Clermont
📍 Downtown Clermont
🕰️ 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
🏡 South Lake Homes
Image credit to Realtor.com
South Lake is growing! Step up and secure your perfect home in one of Florida's fastest-growing, top-rated communities!
Home 1
Price: $450,000
Address: 2149 Treasure Hill St, Minneola, FL 34715
Details: 2,005 sqft / 3 Bed / 2.5 Bath
Built in: 2022
Highlight: This home features an elegant open floor plan with wood flooring and a large backyard, perfectly situated within a resort-style community.
Home 2
Price: $490,000
Address: 359 Pebble Ct, Minneola, FL 34715
Details: 2,464 sqft / 3 Bed / 2 Bath
Built in: 2000
Highlight: This home features a private pool and the rare luxury of no rear neighbors for ultimate tranquility. It also provides a spacious layout in a sought-after community with low HOA fees and easy access to top-rated schools.
🍽️ South Lake Eats
Image credit to Chapa Ma’s
Chapa Ma’s Truta Mix & Cravings
This food truck perfectly bridges the gap between savory street food and refreshing tropical treats. This family-owned gem has become a local favorite for its commitment to authentic Mexican flavors and high-quality ingredients. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch or a weekend craving, the service is consistently praised for being friendly and fast.
Signature Dish: The Quesabirria Tacos are the undisputed star of the show. These aren't your average tacos; they feature tender, slow-cooked beef and melted cheese tucked into corn tortillas that are grilled to a perfect crisp.
Location: 310/302 US-27, Minneola
✅ South Lake Shortlist
5 local businesses that we trust and contribute to our community.
James Smith Handyman & Plumbing LLC - James and his team has built a reputation for being incredibly reliable, offering the kind of honest pricing and technical expertise that makes them the first business we call for home repairs.
Emerald EcoScapes and Lawn Care - We recommend this team because they take the guesswork out of landscaping with proactive communication and a genuine commitment to keeping our local neighborhoods looking their best.
Express Tax Services, LLC - Tax season is rarely easy, but this team makes it feel seamless by providing professional, patient guidance that local residents consistently praise for being both fast and accurate.
Akanise Pet Grooming and Supplies, LLC - It’s clear the staff here truly loves what they do, as they provide a gentle, high-quality grooming experience that makes even the most nervous pets feel right at home.
AquaClear Solutions - We trust them because they prioritize education over high-pressure sales, ensuring our community has access to clean water through thorough service and punctual, professional technicians.
*Want to become a business partner with us. Let us know here!
❤️ The Big Give
Image credit to Education Foundation of Lake County
Education Foundation of Lake County
The Education Foundation of Lake County relies on the heart and energy of our community to bridge the gap in resources for our local public schools. Whether you have a few hours to give or are looking for a regular commitment, there is a meaningful way for you to serve.
The work they do directly supports vital initiatives, from stocking the shelves of our free teacher resource stores to mentoring students as they prepare for college and beyond.
How to Get Involved:
Volunteer at Apple-Mart: Help our teachers "shop" for free supplies by greeting them, checking them in and out, or restocking shelves at one of their three store locations.
Mentor a Student: You can offer guidance, support, and encouragement to help a young person build a strong foundation for success.
Donate or Partner: If you can’t give your time, consider a contribution or a business partnership to help provide the tools our classrooms need to thrive.
Fill out the volunteer interest form here.
❤️ 2,000+ South Lakers
Thanks for spending part of your day with The South Laker. If this issue added a little brightness to your morning, share it with someone who could use a smile this week.
Want to become a business partner with us. Let us know here!
Or, if you’d just like to donate to keep our local newsletter strong, you can do that here.
See you in the next edition!
