
Happy Sunday South Laker!
The fog is lifting off Lake Minneola and the humidity is staying just low enough for a perfect morning on the porch. Whether you're dodging the 27 traffic or planning your week around the school calendar, I’ve got the local scoop to help you win the week ahead.
Now, in today's edition:
The Digest: Campouts, award-winning breakfasts, and new roadwork.
What’s Coming: A full week of local happenings from Montverde to Groveland.
South Laker Eats: A local hidden gem you’ll fall in love with.
South Laker Homes: A move-in ready stunner with an spa-inspired primary bath.
Local Spotlight: The heart and soul of Downtown Clermont shopping.
Old Florida Recipe: A classic receipe that captures the heart of Old Florida.
Pet of the Week: Introducing a local star, meet Ginger!
Let’s get to it.
— Charlie Ferrer
The Digest

Image Source: City of Clermont
Pack Your Tents for the Great Clermont Campout
The City of Clermont is turning Waterfront Park into a giant backyard for the Great Clermont Campout starting Saturday, February 28th. Families can grab a spot on the grass for a night under the stars featuring a big-screen showing of Jumanji, paddleboarding, and a "Great Family Game-Makers Challenge." It’s a rare chance to legally camp right on the shores of Lake Minneola with all the perks of organized activities.
Why it matters: It’s a fantastic, low-cost way to get the kids off the screens and into the fresh air without leaving city limits. You’ll also get those lakefront sunrise views without the typical camping hike.
Around the Lake:
Montverde Road Improvements Kicking Off
Porter Avenue (from 4th St. to 1st St.) and sections of 1st Street are officially scheduled for a facelift. Construction is set to begin in early March and will run through mid-June to improve road surfaces and stormwater drainage. It might mean a few detours on your morning commute, but the long-term fix for our local streets is well worth the temporary hassle.South Lake Chamber Celebrates Local Excellence
The 31st Annual Ambassador Breakfast just wrapped up at the Wesley Center, and the energy was electric. Local businesses showcased their creativity with elaborate table designs while the community got a sneak peek at the upcoming 2026 Pig on the Pond festival. These gatherings aren't just for networking; they’re where our local non-profits and scholars get the spotlight they deserve.
What’s Coming: February 23rd - 28th
Community Events & Fun ☀️
Great Clermont Campout Kickoff | 12:00 PM Start - Feb 28 | Event Link
Location: Waterfront Park, Clermont
Why You Should Go: It's the ultimate local staycation with games, movies, and lakeside vibes.
Montverde Visioning Committee Meeting | 6:00 PM-7:00 PM - Feb 23 | Event Link
Location: Montverde Library, Montverde
Why You Should Go: Have a direct say in the future growth and look of our town.
Groveland Strategic Plan Public Notice | 10:00 AM-12:00 PM - Feb 25 | Event Link
Location: Lake David Center, Groveland
Why You Should Go: Stay informed on the big-picture projects coming to the City with Natural Charm.
Family & Kids 📅
Toddler Story Time | 10:00 AM-11:00 AM - Feb 24 | Event Link
Location: Montverde Library, Montverde
Why You Should Go: Perfect for the 2–4 age group to get some social time and a love for reading.
Clermont Basketball Academy Youth League | 9:00 AM-12:00 PM - Feb 28 | Event Link
Location: Clermont Arts & Recreation Center, Clermont
Why You Should Go: Cheer on our local rising stars and support youth athletics.
Dance Ever After Saturday | 11:00 AM-11:30 AM - Feb 28 | Event Link
Location: Arts & Recreation Center Rehearsal Room, Clermont
Why You Should Go: A high-energy way for the little ones to burn off that Saturday morning steam.
Sports, Fitness & Nature 🏆
Nature Study | 8:00 AM-9:00 AM - Daily | Event Link
Location: Lake Jem Park, Tavares
Why You Should Go: Explore the nature trails within the park and give yourself an opportunity to enjoy time outdoors.
Paddleboarding at the Campout | 1:00 PM-4:00 PM - Feb 28 | Event Link
Location: Waterfront Park, Clermont
Why You Should Go: Get out on Lake Minneola and see the city from a different perspective.
Stories of Water | 9:00 AM - Feb 27 | Event Link: mymontverde.com
Location: Crooked River Preserve, Clermont
Why You Should Go: Enjoy a guided hike as they share the Story of Water.
Live Music 🎶
One Love Reggae Festival | 4:00 PM-9:00 PM - Feb 28 | Event Link
Location: Lake David Park, Groveland
Why You Should Go: Get grooving with live music, Caribbean food, family fun, and unity!
Acoustic Sets at Salt Shack | Various days and times | Event Link
Artists:
Jim Henderson - 5:00 PM-7:00 PM - Feb 27
Dale New Music - 5:00 PM-9:00 PM - Feb 28
Jay Brown - 5:00 PM-9:00 PM - Feb 28
Location: Salt Shack on the Lake, Clermont
Why You Should Go: Nothing beats live music and cold drinks with a view of the water.
South Laker Eats

Image Source: Pupusas LaMesita LLC
Pupusas La Mesita
Pupusas La Mesita brings authentic Salvadoran soul to Groveland, making it a must-visit gem for anyone craving bold, handmade flavors right in our backyard. What sets it apart is the fresh, daily-made pupusas, those irresistible corn masa pockets stuffed with cheese, pork, beans, or squash blossoms, served with curtido for that perfect tangy crunch. This spot reminds us why local, heartfelt cooking still reigns supreme.
Signature Dish: The classic revueltas pupusa that oozes melty quesillo and carnitas in every golden bite.
Location: 338 W Orange St, Groveland
Menu: pupusaslamesita.com
South Laker Homes

Image Source: Realtor.com
Price: $570,000
Address: 1657 Marsh Pointe Dr, Clermont, FL 34711
Details: 2,922 Sq Ft / 4 Bed / 3 Bath
Built in: 2021
Highlight: Experience comfort, featuring a modern stainless steel kitchen, spa-inspired primary bath, covered patio, and included 100-day home warranty.
Click Here: View the full house
Local Spotlight

Image Source: Everythinglocalco.com
Everything Local Co
Tucked into the heart of Historic Downtown Clermont, this shop is exactly what its name promises. It’s a curated treasure trove of artisan soaps, Florida-made teas, and handmade jewelry from local entrepreneurs. It’s a favorite local spot for finding a gift that actually has a story behind it.
Review: "Absolutely beautiful local shop with unique items! My favorite thing about ELC is their faith-filled atmosphere and their prayer & praise wall!" -Christine V.
Website: everythinglocalco.com
Location: 789 West Montrose Street, Clermont, FL 34711
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: JoCooks.com
Lemon Orange Cake
This Lemon-Orange Cake with Lemon Honey Glaze captures the heart of Old Florida: sunny citrus, golden honey, and that homemade warmth that fills your kitchen and your heart.
It’s the kind of cake your grandmother might’ve made for Sunday supper, lovingly reimagined with a modern twist for today’s baker. Every bite is a sweet reminder that some flavors never fade with time.

Say hello to Ginger! This Minneola queen is a charming mix of affection and sass. She lives for two things: playing fetch and savoring her favorite treats, and she’ll happily show off her best tricks for a tasty reward.
When she’s off-duty, Ginger enjoys car rides, listening to “I Want It That Way” by the Backstreet Boys, and sneaking in plenty of cozy naps!

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.


