Happy Sunday South Laker!
I hope you’re enjoying this crisp February air before the afternoon humidity tries to sneak back in. If you’re heading out to the lake today, watch out for the boat ramp crowds, it’s a gorgeous one. In other news, schools are out tomorrow for Presidents' Day, so enjoy your family time or alone time. Whatever works for you!
Now, in today's edition:
The Digest: Movies, ramp closure, and keeping our lakes clean.
What’s Coming: A jam-packed week of live music and community huddles.
South Laker Eats: The top spot for Caribbean and Jamaican fare.
Local Spotlight: Where to find great honey made from healthy bees.
Old Florida Recipe: A citrus classic for your kitchen.
Pet of the Week: Say hello to Zela, the gentle giant!
Let’s get to it.
— Charlie Ferrer
The Digest
Image Source: Root & Branch Films’s website
Clermont Goes Back to the 1960s
Get ready for some Hollywood magic right in our backyard. From February 16–20, downtown Clermont is transforming into a 1960s film set for the production of “The Nearly Forgotten Incident.” You should expect to see vintage cars and period-accurate props along Montrose and 8th Street, primarily during overnight shoots.
Why should we care? This is a huge win for our local economy and puts Clermont on the map for creative industries. It’s pretty cool to think our everyday streets will be immortalized on the silver screen.
Around the Lake:
Temporary Closure: Lake Apopka West Shore Boat Ramp
The Lake Apopka West Shore Boat Ramp (17710 Broad St., Montverde) will be closed on Friday, Feb. 20, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. This closure allows for the water mobilization of construction materials and equipment for the Ferndale Preserve project. Please note that the ramp will face intermittent closures throughout the duration of this project, which includes the construction of a new observation tower, fishing pier, and kayak/canoe launch.New Conservation Efforts at Crooked River
The Office of Parks & Trails is amping up its guided programs at Crooked River Preserve in Clermont. They are highlighting native plant propagation and local watershed health to keep our lakes pristine. These programs are free and offer a hands-on way to understand the ecosystem that makes South Lake so unique.Groveland Realignment & Trail Updates
The Florida Department of Transportation shared some big updates regarding the S.R. 50 realignment and the South Lake Trail. This project aims to improve traffic flow through Groveland while making our trail system safer and more connected for cyclists and walkers. It means fewer traffic headaches in the long run and more scenic miles for our weekend bike rides.
What’s Coming Up This Week
Live Music 🎶
Salt Shack on the Lake with John Beck | 1:00 PM-5:00 PM - Feb 15 | Event Link
Location: 846 W Osceola St., Clermont
Why You Should Go: Grab a pint and enjoy acoustic sets in a family-friendly, open-air environment.
The Roasted Spirit | Various Days and Times | Event Link
Artists
Danielle - 2:00 PM-5:00 PM - Feb 15
Layla Brisbois - 7:00 PM-10:00 PM - Feb 19
Laine Breeden - 7:00 PM-10:00 PM - Feb 20
Hear Right Now - 7:00 PM-10:00 PM - Feb 21
Location: 756 West Montrose Street, Clermont
Why You Should Go: Enjoy your night with fresh cocktails and shareable tapas that are made fresh daily.
Salt Shack on the Lake with Dale New Music | 5:00 PM-9:00 PM - Feb 21 | Event Link
Location: 846 W Osceola St., Clermont
Why You Should Go: Eat some fresh seafood and enjoy acoustic sets in front of the lakefront oasis.
Community Events & Fun ☀️
Coffee with the Chamber | 8:00 AM-9:00 AM - Feb 16 | Event Link
Location: 1615 FL-50 Suite 400, Clermont
Why You Should Go: Network with your neighbors and business owners over a freshly brewed cup of coffee.
Groveland City Council Meeting | 7:00 PM-9:00 PM - Feb 17 | Event Link
Location: 243 S. Lake Ave., Groveland
Why You Should Go: Stay informed on the realignment projects and city growth directly from the source.
Business After Hours | 5:00 PM-7:00 PM - Feb 19 | Event Link
Location: 2400 US-27 Suite 101, Clermont
Why You Should Go: Celebrate local authors and creative businesses in a relaxed, social atmosphere.
Family & Kids 👨🏻👩🏻👧🏻
Little Leapers at Sky Zone Clermont | 4:00 PM-5:30 PM - Feb 17 | Event Link
Location: 2510 S Hwy 27, Groveland
Why You Should Go: Watch your toddler bounce, climb, and explore a world built just for them. It’s more than just fun; it’s a safe space for your little one to make new friends and tackle big milestones like sharing and teamwork.
Storytime for Kids | 11:00 AM-11:40 AM - Feb 19 | Event Link
Location: Minneola Schoolhouse Library, Minneola
Why You Should Go: A cozy, small-town library setting that’s perfect for getting the little ones to sing, dance, and read books. The books are geared towards ages 0-5.
Sports, Fitness & Nature 🏆
Yoga with Cats | 9:00 AM-11:00 AM - Feb 16 | Event Link
Location: 532 Cagan Park Ave., Clermont
Why You Should Go: It's exactly what it sounds like. Have fun doing Yoga with some furry friends looking for forever homes.
Florida Anvil Ultra Triathlon | 8:00 AM-8:00 PM - Feb 19 | Sign Up Here
Location: 7305 US-27, Clermont
Why You Should Go: If you aren't racing, watching these ultra-athletes tackle our hills is pure motivation. One day you’ll be the one doing it!
Paddle Adveture at Crooked River Preserve | 9:00 AM-12:00 PM - Feb 21 | Sign Up Here
Location: 11121 Lake Louisa Rd, Clermont
Why You Should Go: There is no better way to paddle Crooked River to Lake Lousisa and then hike a scenic loop around a sinkhole Lake. Enjoy the unique habitats that Crooked River has to offer.
Honoring the Fallen 5K | 5:30 PM-7:00 PM - Feb 21 | Sign Up Here
Location: 790 W Minneola Ave, Downtown Clermont
Why You Should Go: This run is a great cause for the fallen soilders. Go run this 5k and finish right with a cold beer!
South Laker Eats
Image Source: The South Laker
Fat Chef Authentic Jamaican Cuisine
Fat Chef Authentic Jamaican Cuisine earns high praise for its bold flavors, hearty dishes, and inviting atmosphere. It’s recognized as one of Minneola’s top spots for Caribbean and Jamaican fare, it’s run by owners like Nicole, whose warm and attentive service makes every visit feel personal. This is a perfect place for families, casual gatherings, or a quick bite on the go.
Signature Move: There are so many favorite dishes. Try their tender oxtail with pumpkin rice. If you prefer chicken, try their spiced jerk chicken or curry chicken.
Location: 204 W Washington St, FL 34715
Website: fatchefcuisine.com
Local Spotlight
Image Source: Anderson Farms’s Website
Anderson Farms
Anderson Farms believe that great honey starts with healthy bees and mindful stewardship of the land. They’re proud to partner with local farmers, fostering a community rooted in care for the environment and the pollinators that make it flourish. Overall, their full commitment to sustainable farming ensures that every jar, every drop, and every partnership supports both local agriculture and bee conservation.
Location: 4546 Ag Rd., Groveland
Website: grovelandhoney.com
Show off your small business! Our community is powered by the dreamers, makers, and doers who keep South Lake vibrant. We want to celebrate the shops, services, and hidden gems that make our area unique! Send us a note to [email protected].
Old Florida Recipe
Image Source: 12 Tomatoes’s Website
Orange Meringue Pie
There is nothing that screams "Old Florida" more than a dessert made with fresh-picked citrus. This recipe is a nostalgic trip back to the days when orange groves lined every road in South Lake County. It’s light, tangy, and perfect for a Sunday family dinner. If you’ve got a neighbor with an orange tree, grab a few fresh ones and get baking!
Start up your kitchen: Here’s the recipe.
Looking for a gentle giant?
Meet Zela, a beautiful female Great Dane available for adoption through South Lake Animal League in Groveland!
She’s estimated between 61 and 100 pounds, but don’t let her size fool you! This affectionate giant has a gentle personality, loves to play, and is smart as can be. She’s already vaccinated and spayed, ready to bring love and joy into her forever home.
Visit Zela at the South Lake Animal League today and see if her affectionate and playful personality fits your family!
Show off your South Lake stars! Whether it’s a pampered pet, a hardworking farm animal, or a local rescue, send your best shots to [email protected]. Be sure to include their name, what makes them special, and where the photo was captured!
Thanks ❤️
Thanks for spending part of your day with The South Laker. If this issue brightened your morning, pass it along to someone else who could use a smile this week.
