Happy Sunday South Laker!

This week, we’re taking a look at how Clermont is reinforcing its "Choice of Champions" reputation with a new state-of-the-art facility for our local heroes. Plus, we’ve got a lineup of events that’ll keep the whole family busyβ€”from high-flying rescue dogs to the first wave of local Easter egg hunts.

Now, in today's edition:

  • Laker Notes: Clermont's elite new training facility hits the headlines.

  • What’s Coming: A jam-packed week of ribbon cuttings and Easter celebrations.

  • South Laker Eats: Smash burgers and live music at The Station.

  • South Laker Homes: Two 55+ gems in Clermont for under $400k.

  • And more…

Let’s get to it.

β€” Charlie Ferrer

🟠 Laker Notes

Data Provided by Accruweather.com

πŸ“° Training Facility in the News: Clermont is reinforcing its reputation as the Choice of Championsβ„’ with its new Public Safety Training Facility, which has recently garnered significant media attention from Spectrum, WESH 2, and WFTV Channel 6. By combining cutting-edge technology with innovative, hands-on instruction, the state-of-the-art site is setting a new regional standard for first responder preparedness. This investment ensures that local heroes are equipped with the elite skills and excellence necessary to serve the Central Florida community every single day.

πŸ• Rescued Rascals Take Center Stage: Get ready for a night of high-flying tails and wagging stunts. The critically acclaimed touring sensation Puppy Pals LIVE is officially set to bark its way into town on April 3rd, promising a night of canine-centered chaos that the whole family can enjoy. Puppy Pals LIVE features a cast of adopted and rescued dogs that have traded shelter life for the spotlight.

🏒 Helping Professional Services Firms: Clermont-based Educational Services & Consulting (ESC) has launched its new "EDGE" framework, a strategic methodology designed to help small and mid-sized professional service firms improve operational efficiency. The structured approach guides businesses through four stagesβ€”Evaluate, Develop, Grow, and Excelβ€”to help leaders transition from reactive decision-making to measurable, sustainable growth.

πŸ—“οΈ What’s Coming (Monday-Saturday)

Image Credit to Clermont Performing Arts Center

Monday, March 30

Ribbon Cutting - Imagination Village Indoor Play Center | Clermont
πŸ“ 15410 County Road 565A, Groveland
πŸ•°οΈ 4:30 AM - 5:00 PM


Tuesday, March 31

Ribbon Cutting - The Learning Experience | Clermont
πŸ“ 16272 Golden Eagle Blvd., Clermont
πŸ•°οΈ 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Story Time in the Library | Montverde
πŸ“ Helen Lehmann Memorial Library
πŸ•°οΈ 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM


Wednesday, April 1

Lunch with Mayor Murry | Clermont
πŸ“ Piesanos Stone Fired Pizza
πŸ•°οΈ 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

Solutions Networking | Clermont
πŸ“ Cheeser’s Palace
πŸ•°οΈ 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM


Thursday, April 2

Strawberry & Veggie U-Pick | Clermont
πŸ“ Southern Hill Farms
πŸ•°οΈ 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM


Friday, April 3

Puppy Pals LIVE | Clermont
πŸ“ Clermont Performing Arts Center
πŸ•°οΈ 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
🎫 Get Tickets Here

Strawberry & Veggie U-Pick + Fun Zone | Clermont
πŸ“ Southern Hill Farms
πŸ•°οΈ 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

First Friday Chamber Connection | Clermont
πŸ“ 620 W Montrose St, Clermont
πŸ•°οΈ 7:15 AM - 8:30 AM

Ribbon Cutting - Digital Universe LLC | Clermont
πŸ“ Clermont City Center
πŸ•°οΈ 8:30 AM - 9:00 AM

Exploration Hike | Clermont
πŸ“ Ferndale Preserve
πŸ•°οΈ Starting at 8:00 AM


Saturday, April 4

The Ultimate Tribute to Frank Sinatra Sinatra and Friends | Clermont
πŸ“ Clermont Performing Arts Center
πŸ•°οΈ 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
🎫 Get Tickets Here

Family Food Fest | Clermont
πŸ“ Downtown Clermont
πŸ•°οΈ 4:00β€―PM - 8:00β€―PM

Spring U-Pick + Fun Zone | Clermont
πŸ“ Southern Hill Farms
πŸ•°οΈ 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM

Clermont Waterfront Parkrun (Free 5K) | Clermont
πŸ“ Lake Hiawatha Preserve
πŸ•°οΈ Starts at 7:30 AM

Easter Celebration & Egg Hunt | Groveland
πŸ“ Cherry Lake Park
πŸ•°οΈ 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Easter Egg Scramble | Montverde
πŸ“ Kirk Park
πŸ•°οΈ Starts at 10:00 AM SHARP!

Worth the drive

Ladies 9 Apps & Wine | Howey-in-the-Hills
πŸ“ Mission Resort + Club
πŸ•°οΈ March 30, Starts at 2:00 PM

Meditation in the Garden Series | Tavares
πŸ“ Mission Resort + Club
πŸ•°οΈ March 30, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Lake County Farmers Market | Eustis
πŸ“ Lake County Fairgrounds
πŸ•°οΈ April 2, 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Vintage Garden Show | Mount Dora
πŸ“ Renninger’s Antique Center
πŸ•°οΈ April 2, Starts at 9:00 AM

Wetland Excursion | Eustis
πŸ“ Hidden Waters Preserve
πŸ•°οΈ April 2, Starts at 9:00 AM

Town of Howey Annual Easter Egg Dash | Howey-in-the-Hills
πŸ“ Central Park
πŸ•°οΈ April 4, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Talk of the Town Comedy Show | Eustis
πŸ“ Hideaway Performing Arts Theater
πŸ•°οΈ April 4, 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM

🍽️ South Laker Eats

Image credit to Rachele C.

The Station

Formerly the site of Clermont Brewing Company, this newly reimagined venue has quickly become a community hub for "Good Eats and Live Beats."

The atmosphere at The Station a balance between a polished dining experience and an energetic nightlife spot. Inside, you’ll find elevated dΓ©cor and a massive 16-foot LED video wall that makes it a premier destination for watching sports, while the outdoor patio offers a more relaxed, airy vibe with pool tables.

  • Signature Bites: The Smash Burgers are the current standout on the menu. There are other favorites that include the house-smoked wings and the Oak Smoked Chicken Buffalo Dip.

  • Location: 750 W Desoto St, Clermont

🏑 South Laker Homes

Image credit to Realtor.com

South Lake is growing! As our community continues to grow, there are opportunities to find an affordable home.

Home 1

  • Price: $380,000

  • Address: 2219 Caxton Ave, Clermont, FL 34711

  • Details: 2,031 sqft / 3 Bed / 2 Bath

  • Built in: 2004

  • Highlight: This home features a brand-new roof and a thoughtfully designed floor plan. It’s located in a premier 55+ community, so you can enjoy resort-style amenities including pristine golf courses, sparkling pools, and relaxing spas.

Home 2

  • Price: $395,000

  • Address: 3914 Allamanda Ct, Clermont, FL 34711

  • Details: 1,893 sqft / 3 Bed / 2 Bath

  • Built in: 2001

  • Highlight: Now priced $20,000 lower, this rare St. Regis model in the gated 55+ Kings Ridge community offers ultimate privacy on a large cul-de-sac lot with a 2.5-car garage and a beautifully remodeled kitchen.

β˜… Local Spotlight

Image credit to Cookie Queen Factory

The Cookie Queen Factory

Located inside The Downtown Exchange, this local gem is redefining what a cookie should be. Forget those thin, crunchy grocery store snacksβ€”these are thick, gooey, and absolutely loaded with flavor. It’s a locally owned small business that has quickly gained a cult following for its creative rotations and massive portions.

Website: cookiequeenfactory.com
Location: 639 8th St, Clermont
Shop: View the menu

⏲️ Old Florida Recipe

Florida Orange Juice Cornbread

Give your side dish a sunny upgrade with this Florida Orange Juice Cornbread recipe. By substituting 100% Florida Orange Juice into the mix, you get a naturally sweet, moist, and golden finish that pairs perfectly with everything from hearty chili to holiday roasts.

This recipe delivers:

  • Natural Sweetness: No added sugars needed.

  • Immune Support: A boost of Vitamin C in every bite.

  • The Perfect Texture: Citrus acidity ensures a tender, fluffy crumb.

Go start baking!

πŸ• Pet of the Week

Meet Dude!

Looking for a loyal companion who just needs a little time to shine? He’s a 6-year-old Cattle Dog mix at the Lake County Animal Shelter.

While he can be a bit shy with strangers, once you’re in his circle, you’ve got a friend for life! Dude is a playful soul who lives for tennis balls and treats. He’s looking for an adult-only home where he can build a bond at his own pace.

Ready to meet your new best friend? Dude is available by appointmentβ€”call (352) 343-9688 to schedule a visit!

❀️ Get Involved

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