Happy Thursday South Laker!
Summer is flying by, and the August 18th Primary Election is fast approaching. Before you head out to enjoy the sun, there is one major local update you need to know: if you plan on voting from home this year, your previous vote-by-mail requests have officially expired under Florida law.
We’ve got all the details on how to renew your request and secure your ballot in today's edition.
Let’s dive in…
— Charlie Ferrer
🟠 South Lake News
Local Election Prep Is Underway
The August 18, 2026 Primary Election is fast approaching, and Lake County election officials are urging residents to double-check their registration status now to avoid last-minute headaches.
But before we look at the deadlines, there is one major change you need to know about: Under Florida law, all vote-by-mail requests expired at the end of 2024. If you haven't explicitly renewed your request for the 2026 cycle, you will not receive a ballot in the mail. You can easily update your status or request a ballot online at LakeVotes.gov or by calling 352-343-9734.
📊 Community Poll
How do you plan to cast your ballot in the upcoming elections?
Poll Results:
We asked where you head first to stock up on fresh summer fruits and veggies, and with 16 total votes, the results are in! While the convenience of major local grocery stores took the top spot, South Lakers showed a massive appreciation for our local farm stands and open-air markets.
56.25% (9 votes) - The Supermarket Shoppers: More than half of you are heading to local favorites like Publix, Aldi, or Target to load up your carts.
37.50% (6 votes) - Supporting Local Stands: Over a third of respondents skip the traditional grocery aisles, choosing instead to support local farm stands
6.25% (1 vote) - The Green Thumbs: A tiny, dedicated slice of readers is skipping the cash register entirely, growing their own fresh produce right in their backyards.
0.00% (0 votes) - Convenience Cruisers: Interestingly, absolutely nobody voted for sticking to pre-washed, pre-bagged convenience items that proves that our community values real, fresh, hand-selected produce.
🐕 Together with Lake County Animal Shelter
Meet Marley! 🐾
A handsome senior guy who is ready to steal your heart (and maybe a spot on your couch). Don't let the "senior" label fool you—this boy has plenty of zest for life and a whole lot of love to give!
Age: ~8 years young
Weight: 46.4 lbs
Status: Neutered male
Why you'll love him:
He absolutely adores human attention and will happily seek out all the head scratches and cuddles you're willing to give. While he is incredibly sweet and affectionate, he also has a playful, independent streak. He loves stretching his legs, exploring at his own pace, and showing off his youthful spirit.
👉 Ready to meet him? Stop by the Lake County Animal Shelter to meet Marley in person today!
🏡 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: $560,000
Address: 1401 Shira Rd, Minneola, FL 34715
Details: 3,247 sqft / 5 Bed / 2.5 Bath
Built in: 2019
Garage: 3 cars
Click here: To view the full house & plan your showing!
Home 2
Price: $685,000
Address: 2124 Keystone Pass Blvd, Minneola, FL 34715
Details: 2,933 sqft / 4 Bed / 4 Bath
Built in: 2024
Garage: 3 Cars
Click here: To view the full house & plan your showing!
📰 Community Impact
NICU Breaks Ground in South Lake
Orlando Health South Lake Hospital has begun construction on Lake County's first Level 2 neonatal intensive care unit. The 7,200-square-foot, 10-bed facility will let local families keep critically ill newborns close to home instead of traveling out of county for care. The unit is slated to open in 2027.
Search Underway for New Superintendent
The Lake County School Board has launched its search for a new superintendent following Diane Kornegay's retirement announcement. Kornegay leaves behind back-to-back district "A" grades and a record 96% graduation rate. The board hopes to name a successor with strong Florida education credentials by late October.
Clermont PD Builds Bridges This Summer
The Clermont Police Department is running a lineup of community events this summer, including "Popsicles with a Cop" and "Hoops with Cops," aimed at building trust between officers and residents. The casual, family-friendly gatherings give neighbors, especially local kids, a chance to connect with police outside typical calls for service.
Shin Sushi Expands Along US-27
Shin Sushi is opening a second location in the former Good Town Buffet space along the US-27 corridor, bringing an all-you-can-eat Japanese concept to a long-vacant storefront. The move adds to the corridor's steady run of new restaurant and retail openings.
Historical Society Marks America's 250th
The Groveland Historical Society has released a custom America 250 coloring book ahead of the nation's semiquincentennial, pairing local history with activities for kids. Copies are available at area heritage sites as part of the group's push to keep South Lake's history alive for the next generation.
✅ South Lake Shortlist
3 local businesses that we trust and contribute to our community. If you are searching for the best beauty salons, here’s a list for you.
Noemi Dominican Hair Salon - Renowned for transforming hair with precision and care, this salon has built its reputation on flawless silk presses, masterful blowouts, and authentic Dominican styling techniques. If you're chasing incredible shine, bounce, and a finish that actually lasts, this is the go-to spot.
Robyn Michelle Salon - A trendy hotspot offering a luxurious, personalized experience built around modern, custom-tailored transformations. Think flawless lived-in color, precision cuts, and certified premium extensions — all delivered in a warm, collaborative setting that feels as good as the results look.
Clove Salon - As a premier Aveda-affiliated salon, Clove pairs top-tier beauty services with an eco-conscious, spa-like atmosphere. Clients consistently praise the organic hair care products, the welcoming staff, and stylists skilled enough to nail everything from gorgeous highlights to razor-sharp precision cuts.
*Want to become a business partner with us. Let us know here!
🍽️ South Lake Eats
Image credit to Aleesa B via Google
Tuti’s Sushi Noodle
If you are looking for fresh, vibrant Asian fusion, Tuti's Sushi Noodle is a must-visit gem in Clermont. This local favorite has quickly built a stellar reputation for its beautiful presentations, generous portions, and incredibly high-quality ingredients. Visitors love the creative menu, which perfectly balances comforting Japanese classics with fun, modern textures.
For the ultimate bite, do not miss their standout dish: the Crunchy Philadelphia Roll, widely praised for its perfect blend of fresh salmon, rich cream cheese, and a highly satisfying crunch.
More Information:
Location: 793 W Montrose St, Clermont, FL 34711
Phone: (352) 856-1337
Instagram: @tutissush
🗓️ Weekend Fun
You can submit an event here.
Thursday, July 16
Bonkerz Comedy | Clermont
📍 The Station
🕰️ Starts at 8:00 PM
Salsa Night | Clermont
📍 The View
🕰️ 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Puzzles’s Trivia League | Clermont
📍 The View
🕰️ 7:00 PM - 8:45 PM
Hoopy Heathens #11 | Clermont
📍 Suncreek Brewery & Distillery
🕰️ 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Friday, July 17
We Are Here Conference 2026 (Day 1) | Clermont
📍 Clermont Arts and Recreation Center
🕰️ Starts at 7:00 PM
🎫 Get Tickets
New Collective - LIVE Music | Clermont
📍 Suncreek Brewery & Distillery
🕰️ Starts at 2:00 PM
🎫 Get Tickets
Women’s Glow Night Mini Golf | Minneola
📍 Minneola Mini Golf
🕰️ 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
🎫 Get Tickets
Music & Wine Tasting Night | Groveland
📍 Barrels and Boards
🕰️ 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
STIHL Demo Day | Groveland
📍 Toole’s Ace Hardward
🕰️ 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Saturday, July 18
Saturday Social Bike Ride | Clermont
📍 1675 Hancock Rd.
🕰️ 7:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Mini Maker’s Market | Groveland
📍 132 W Broad St
🕰️ 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
We Are Here Conference 2026 (Day 2) | Clermont
📍 Clermont Arts and Recreation Center
🕰️ Starts at 7:00 PM
🎫 Get Tickets
Sunday, July 19
Vinyl Ventures 10k ($2 Recod Sale Event) | Clermont
📍 Clermont Commons
🕰️ 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Farmers Market | Clermont
📍 Downtown Clermont
🕰️ 9:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Peddle and Paddle | Clermont
📍 Lake Hiawatha Preserve
🕰️ Starts at 10:00 AM
Sunday Breakfast Buffet | Clermont
📍 Suncreek Cafe
🕰️ 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
We Are Here Conference 2026 (Day 3) | Clermont
📍 Clermont Arts and Recreation Center
🕰️ Starts at 7:00 PM
🎫 Get Tickets
Kara and Jordan - LIVE Music | Minneola
📍 Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards
🕰️ 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
❤️ Thanks!
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See you in the next edition!
