Lake Community Arts will soon present their spring concert; I Hear America Singing! Directed by Chad McClellan, this inspiring evening of music will feature the 100+ voice Lake Community Choir, the exciting new Children Sing! choir, and special guests. This concert will proudly feature an array of Americana folk songs, spirituals, patriotic favorites, and inspiring classics including: Make Them Hear You (from Ragtime), Shenandoah, Simple Gifts, and Battle Hymn of the Republic. This concert event will be a patriotic opportunity to celebrate the voices that makeup the American spirit with your friends and families.

Co-Founder and Choir Director, Chad McClellan notes, “Lake Community Arts is so incredibly thrilled to present our upcoming spring concert I Hear America Singing! I chose songs to not only celebrate the 250^th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America, yet to also celebrate the many different voices that make up the rich tapestry of our community — each unique, each powerful, and each essential to the story we will share. This concert will bring those voices together in a joyful expression of unity, mutual respect, and the enduring spirit of music. Come celebrate the voices of America with us.”

notes, “At Lake Community Arts, we believe the arts have the power to unite, inspire, and strengthen communities. I Hear America Singing! is a reflection of that belief, bringing together singers of all ages to celebrate the music that tells our collective story.”

Lake Community Arts is also pleased to launch one of their newest programs — Children Sing! which was opened to children ages 7 through 11 years old to make their performance debut at this spring concert. Rachel Robertson, the Children Sing! instructor shares: “Lake Community Arts is thrilled with our exciting new performance group. This comprehensive musical experience gives our children the opportunity to not only sing, but to also play an interactive role in the creative process. We are working to help strengthen our children’s musicianship skills while building community spirit.”

The South Lake Art League will be promoting and collaborating with local artists by having a wonderful fine art display in the Clermont Performing Arts Center lobby, before and during the concert.

LCA looks forward to expanding our reach by creating more opportunities in music, theatre, dance, and visual arts — engaging individuals of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds, and strengthening our community through the power of the arts.

The adult Lake Community Choir is open to all singers ages 14 and up with no experience required. This non-auditioned ensemble brings together voices from across Lake County and beyond to perform a wide variety of choral music in a supportive and inclusive environment. Whether you’re an experienced singer or someone who simply loves to sing, Lake Community Arts Choir offers you an opportunity to connect, make music, and to be part of something joyful and meaningful. Rehearsals focus on skill-building, community, and artistic excellence, culminating in public performances that celebrate the power of music to bring people together.

LCA’s performances will include public concerts and special events to showcase local talent and foster a sense of belonging for both performers and audiences. Future LCA program expansion will include more opportunities for adult and youth choir singers, musicians, theatre performers, the visual arts, and music education. Support through donations and sponsorships will allow them to expand their offers, increasing our artistic impact in Lake County. LCA registration will open soon for their fall and winter concerts. Above all, they will help celebrate the joy that music and the creative arts bring to life for our community. You can make a tax deductible gift at LakeCommunityArts.org/support

Come experience the joy of community with the power of music as we usher in America’s 250^th anniversary with happiness, pride, and joyful songs. This performance of I Hear America Singing! will take place at the Clermont Performing Arts Center on Saturday, May 9^th starting at 6 PM. Tickets are available online or at the Clermont Performing Arts Center Ticket Office for only $10 per person.

Secure tickets at LakeCommunityArts.org/tickets and visit: www.LakeCommunityArts.org for more information. Follow Lake Community Arts on Facebook at:https://www.facebook.com/lakecommunityarts/ and on social media @LakeCommunityArts.

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The Sunshine Book Company, located at 647 Lake Avenue, Clermont, celebrated its five-year anniversary  on Thursday, April 9^th, with a host of commemorations, including a traditional ribbon-cutting sponsored by the South Lake Chamber of Commerce.

The Sunshine Book Company is a family-owned, independent business that offers a wide variety of book assortments. From children’s sections to new releases, the store carries a large assortment of old favorites, romance, mystery and reference books, just to name a few of the subjects available.

Store Owners Beth and Todd Merrick had long dreamed of owning their own bookstore. Along with the couple’s three children, the couple would often discuss a vision for making that dream come true while visiting other independent stores. The Covid era provided the Merrick’s with an opportunity to take a deep breath and sketch out a plan to make that dream come true.

“We feel that it is really essential and critical that every community has an independent bookstore. It brings people together and offers a way for people to partner and participate in community. Bringing people together is one of the many things about the store that we love,” says Beth. One of the additional charming points of the store, located in historic downtown Clermont, is the rich history that the two-story, 100+ year old, wood frame former home holds within the cozy walls and heart-of- pine floors that still exist today.

The once home that turned into a comfortable and welcoming business was built in 1915 by Isiah and wife Nellie Benson of Woodstock, Vermont. Isiah and Nellie started visiting the Clermont area in 1905 as winter season residents. After moving to Clermont as permanent residents, the couple purchased the then vacant lots from Lake Avenue to Fifth Street, and from Montrose Street to Minneola Avenue. Over a period of time, the Bensons built homes at 607 Lake Avenue, 619 Lake Avenue and 647 Lake Avenue – the present-day Sunshine Book Company.

The grounds of the Lake Avenue residences are believed to be the site of social gatherings hosted by the New England Club. A club formed by Nellie and other transplant New Englanders. Some of the fun activities of the club included the making of maple sugar from Vermont’s finest syrup that was secured from Woodstock, Vermont by the Bensons.

In a time when progress in downtown Clermont was moving at a rapid pace, the well-maintained home turned bookstore was brand new at the time when fresh sidewalks were installed in the area. The sidewalks were accented by streetlamps powered by the first glimpse of electricity in downtown Clermont on July 1, 1915, at exactly 7:30 PM. Fresh water to homes was a work in progress, but was well underway, thanks to Alexander Kern. Kern was a nearby neighbor of the Lake Avenue homes after building his family home at 543 Montrose Street, just one-half block east of Lake Avenue.  

The Lake Avenue home was built during the same year that the Clermont and Minneola School Districts were merged, and would later that year lead to a brand new, two-story brick school being constructed at the corner of Second Street and Oak Street, only blocks from the present-day Sunshine Book Store. The school would, years later, be deemed an elementary school and the longtime workplace of elementary teacher Ruth Delanos. Ruth resided in the bookstore home for many years before selling the home to then United Methodist Church of Clermont, Pastor Dale Harward, in 1984. Pastor Harward maintained the structure as a home until he sold it in 1999 to the current owner, sisters Laura Stokes-Henry and Rebecca Stokes-Mendoza. The Stokes family wanted to maintain the home’s nostalgic and historic image while also envisioning a place that welcomed entrepreneurial endeavors.  

With some planning and preservation thoughts, the home was remodeled to accommodate a business downstairs while maintaining residential accommodations upstairs.  Although the nostalgic and hospitable home on Lake Avenue has seen many changes over the years, its 111 years of existence remain as a positive symbol going forward in a community that takes pride in its hometown feel and family-oriented touch.

Stop by the store in person and enjoy a warm welcome from owners Todd and Beth, or visit www.SunshineBookCo.com for more information.

(Story and picture contributions from Rebecca Stokes-Mendoza, Dennis Bronson’s Walking Tour Guide-Downtown Clermont, Clermont: Gem of the Hills, Clermont Historic Village Museum and Florida Memory)

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Orlando Cat Cafe is proud to announce it has been named Social Impact Business of the Year by the WomElle Female Voice Awards, a prestigious honor recognizing organizations and leaders who are driving meaningful change in their communities.

The WomElle Female Voice Awards celebrate the achievements of women leaders, entrepreneurs, coaches, and professionals across a wide range of industries. The Social Impact Business of the Year Award specifically honors an organization that has effectively implemented initiatives addressing social issues and creating measurable, positive impact.

Since opening its doors, Orlando Cat Cafe has been dedicated to blending business with purpose—partnering with local rescue organizations to help find loving homes for adoptable cats and kittens. To date, the cafe has successfully facilitated nearly 3,500 adoptions, helping save lives while creating a unique and welcoming experience for guests.

“This award is incredibly meaningful to us because it reflects the heart of what we do every day—bringing people and animals together in a way that changes lives,” said founder Sandra Cagan. “We are honored to be recognized alongside so many inspiring women and organizations making a difference.”

This year also marks a major milestone for Orlando Cat Cafe as it celebrates its 10th anniversary. Over the past decade, the business has become a model for social entrepreneurship, demonstrating how innovative concepts can create both economic success and community impact.

Building on that success, Orlando Cat Cafe is now expanding its mission nationwide through franchise opportunities, inviting passionate entrepreneurs to bring the cat cafe experience—and its life-saving impact—to communities across the country.

The awards ceremony will take place on May 30^th at the Caribe Royal Resort in Orlando.

For more information about Orlando Cat Cafe, adoption opportunities, or franchise availability, please visit www.orlandocatcafefranchise.com or contact Lisa Doroba at lisa@orlandocatcafe.com.

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Jasmine Gaines of East Ridge High School has distinguished herself as an outstanding scholar, maintaining an impressive 5.2 GPA while earning numerous prestigious honors. She has been a three-time finalist at both the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair and the State Science and Engineering Fair of Florida. At the Lake County Regional Science and Engineering Fair, she earned Best in Show and First Place for three consecutive years. Her academic accomplishments also include earning the AP Capstone Diploma, being named an AP Scholar with Honor, and receiving recognition from Oracle Academy and NASA Deep Space Logistics for her work in systems software and robotics.

Beyond the classroom, Jasmine has proven to be an exceptional leader. She has been actively involved in Student Government since 2022 and has served as Student Body President since her sophomore year. She is the founder and president of the East Ridge High School STEAM Club, where her leadership helped the school earn the Lake County Schools Gold STEAM School Award for two consecutive years. In addition, she serves as Vice President of the National Honor Society and is a member of the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Committee.

Jasmine’s dedication to her community is equally impressive. She has completed more than 500 hours of community service, volunteering with organizations such as Hands of Hope Scouts America, Thrive Clermont, and her church’s summer camp. She has also given her time as a science fair judge for a local elementary school and contributed 183 hours at a neuroscience clinic, assisting elderly, disabled, and vulnerable patients.

Looking ahead, Jasmine plans to pursue a degree in neuroscience with the goal of becoming a neurologist. She hopes to combine innovation and technology to help advance treatments and ultimately find a cure for neurodegenerative diseases.

In recognition of her remarkable achievements and commitment to service, Jasmine Gaines of East Ridge High School has been awarded the $1,000 Ray Goodgame Outstanding Student Leader Scholarship.

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Through a formal proclamation issued by Mayor Tim Murry on April 14, the city joined communities across the State of Florida in recognizing the importance of conserving water—especially during April, a typically dry month when water demands are at their peak.

The proclamation highlights a simple but powerful truth: water is a basic and essential need for every living creature. But here in Florida, where lakes shimmer and sprinklers hum almost year-round, it’s easy to take that resource for granted. That’s where awareness—and a bit of creativity—comes in.

Adding a colorful splash to the celebration, local students took center stage in the Annual Drop Savers Poster Contest. To celebrate Water Awareness Month, Clermont students put their imagination to work, designing eye-catching posters that delivered powerful messages about conservation. From dripping faucets turned into superheroes to oceans filled with reminders to “save every drop,” the artwork proved that big ideas can come from small hands.

Students proudly displayed their creations, with several receiving special recognition for their outstanding posters. The contest not only showcased artistic talent but also reinforced the importance of water conservation in a way that resonates with younger generations—proving that learning can be both meaningful and fun.

Clermont and regional Water Management Districts continue working together to promote conservation through educational programs, outreach initiatives, and community involvement. And as the student artists demonstrated, spreading awareness doesn’t have to be dull—it can be vibrant, engaging, and even a little inspiring.

The city has long supported conservation efforts, encouraging residents, businesses, and schools to do their part. Whether it’s fixing leaks, limiting irrigation, or simply being mindful of daily water use, every action contributes to preserving Florida’s precious resources.

And those small efforts matter. Each business, industry, school, and citizen plays a role in protecting the environment while supporting a strong and healthy community. After all, conserving water today helps ensure that Clermont’s natural beauty remains for generations to come.

So this April, Clermont isn’t just talking about conservation—it’s celebrating it. With a mayoral proclamation in place and students leading the charge with creativity and enthusiasm, the message is clear: saving water can be impactful, imaginative, and yes—even fun.

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Continuing on its commitment to make golf more accessible and affordable for kids, Bank of America today announced the return of Golf with Us. Children, ages 6-18, are invited to enroll in Golf with Us to access tee times for $5 or less to thousands of courses across Bank of America’s 97 markets through a free one-year membership to Youth on Course.

In its inaugural year, Bank of America’s Golf with Us drew nearly 100,000 youth participants from every state, Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico, with members logging more than 100,000 rounds of golf nationwide. Of those members, more than 22,000 were girls including many first-time golfers. This year, the Bank hopes to enroll 150,000 kids in Golf with Us.

“Our belief in the power of sport to bring people together and broaden opportunity is reinforced by our partnerships that help us build stronger client connections, support local economies and inspire future generations,” said Brian Moynihan, Chair and CEO of Bank of America. “In its first year, Golf with Us has helped nearly 100,000 kids learn invaluable life skills, and we look forward to building on this momentum with Rory’s terrific support and partners like Youth on Course.”

Golf with Us returns on golf’s grandest stage – the 2026 Masters Tournament, where Bank of America serves as a Champion Partner. The bank’s newest marketing campaign reimagines the sport’s most iconic Masters moments with Golf with Us members featuring:

• Jack Nicklaus’ iconic putt for birdie on the 17th in 1986 to secure sole possession of the lead
• Bubba Watson’s escape from the pine straw on the 10th enroute to a 2012 Masters victory
• Rory McIlroy’s shot of a lifetime on the 15th hole and celebration on 18 after securing his long-awaited green jacket in 2025

“I remember being a kid trying to copy everything the players I looked up to did, the swing, the mannerisms, all of it. The idea of a young kid recreating that shot on 15 really resonated with me,” said McIlroy. “Golf teaches powerful life lessons, how to compete, stay patient, and handle setbacks, and those lessons shape who you become. Opening access to the game is key to giving more kids that opportunity.”

Inspired by the campaign, McIlroy will donate $500,000 to Youth on Course, which will help fund 70,000 rounds for members in the months ahead.

While discounted tee times remain a core offering, Golf with Us benefits also include:

• NEW IN 2026: Expanded access for indoor play with $5 golf simulator rentals and a free lesson from a PGA Pro at any Golf Galaxy and DICK’s House of Sport location
• NEW IN 2026: Mentor-led golf experiences through a partnership with Watson Links
• A registered handicap index in the United States Golf Association’s (USGA) Golf Handicap Information Network (GHIN) system
• Complimentary access to GolfPass
• Continued development and learning opportunities through the PGA of America REACH Foundation

Throughout the spring and summer, Bank of America will also host thousands of kids at free Golf with Us clinics across the country where golf legends and celebrities with a passion for golf serve as instructors, sharing fundamental golf skills and life lessons while helping children feel a sense of belonging within the sport. In 2025, more than 1,500 kids participated in these clinics across 25 markets alongside golf legend Annika Sorenstam, NFL Hall of Famer Terrell Davis, World Series Champions Ryan Zimmerman and Jackie Bradley, Jr., and former U.S. Men’s National Team veteran Jozy Altidore, among dozens of others.

Last year, more than 990 kids from Central Florida and East Central Florida took advantage of the offer and played 880 rounds.

The local courses included for 2026 are:

• Eagle Creek Golf Club
• Falcons Fire Golf Club
• Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course
• The Tooth – Orange County National GC
• Kings Ridge Golf Club – Kings Course
• Redtail Golf Club – Ridge Course
• Green Valley Country Club
• Arlington Ridge Golf Club
• Savanna Club Golf Course
• The Links at Spruce Creek South
• Oceans Golf Club
• Crane Lakes Golf and Country Club
• Cypress Head Golf Club
• Hidden Lakes Golf Club
• Cypress Knoll Golf & Country Club
• Cocoa Beach Country Club – Dolphin Course
• Cocoa Beach Country Club – Lakes Course
• Cocoa Beach Country Club – River Course
• Sebastian Golf Club

“Our partnership with Bank of America has been a gamechanger for Youth on Course, accelerating our mission and scaling our impact in communities across the country,” said Adam Heieck, Chief Executive Officer, Youth on Course. “As Youth on Course proudly celebrates its 20th anniversary, Bank of America’s support has not only inspired tens of thousands of new young golfers but also expanded our network by adding over 100 municipal course locations and counting, ensuring that kids have safe, affordable places to play in their communities.”

Golf with Us is free and open to the first 150,000 new participants who enroll before June 15. Returning Golf with Us participants can renew their annual membership with an exclusive 20% discount offer, courtesy of Bank of America. Interested families can learn more about the Golf with Us program and enroll by visiting the Bank of America Golf with Us page.

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The City of Clermont is offering summer soccer training at the Clermont Arts and Recreation Center for boys and girls ages 12-17.  

The sessions will take place every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from June 2 – June 25 from 9:00 am-11:00 am at a cost of $20 per day.  All skill levels are welcome!

Sessions will be led by Coach Castleman, head coach for South Lake HS boys and Clermont FC U-18 boys. 

Each session is capped at 30 participants and will focus on passing, finishing, first touch and small-sided games.  

Participants can expect to improve on ball control, passing, receiving & finishing with dominant and non-dominant foot and also fitness.  Participants can also expect to have fun! 

Click the Link to registration for Soccer and the many other offerings at Clermont Arts and Recreation Center: REGISTRATION FORM

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by Dana Kelly, Lake County Rowing Association

At the 2026 FSRA Sculling State Championships held this weekend at Nathan Benderson Park, Lake County Rowing Association (LCRA) delivered a landmark performance, highlighting the program’s competitive depth on the state stage. LCRA ranked 21 out of 47 teams that competed this weekend. The women’s team ranked 11 out of 42 teams!

Leading the charge, Sophia Picciano successfully defended her title in the Girls Lightweight Single, earning back-to-back state championships—a remarkable achievement that cements her as one of the premier lightweight scullers in Florida. Her repeat victory set the tone for a historic weekend for LCRA.

Adding to the historic weekend, teammate Kayla Young captured bronze with a 3rd-place finish in the Girls Lightweight Single, marking a defining moment for the program as two LCRA athletes stood together on the state podium.

LCRA’s presence was felt across the entire competition. Six boats advanced through intense preliminary rounds to reach the A Finals, placing them among the top crews in the state and putting them in real contention for state titles.  The depth and consistency across events underscored the strength of the entire roster.

Among the standout performances, freshman Tyler Young made an immediate impact in his debut championship appearance for the Boys’ Freshman Single, qualifying for the A finals and finishing Top 10 in the state.

In the Boys Lightweight Double (2x), the duo of Joshua Bowser and Jack Power delivered a strong performance, racing the 1,500-meter course in 5:56.59, earning them the 7th fastest time in a competitive field of eighteen crews.

The Freshman Girls 2x of Stella Melendez and Ryan Caridi entered the finals ranked 2nd out of 18 crews after a strong qualifying performance, and went on to secure an impressive 6th place overall.

LCRA delivered an outstanding performance in the Girls Jr 4x competitive heats, fielding two crews in the same event. Both crews pushed through fierce competition at the A finals, securing 6th and 7th rank in the state. With meaningful milestones achieved, LCRA leaves Sarasota grateful for the progress made and proud of the effort shown by every athlete.  Next up: FSRA Sweep Championships, April 25–26.

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Members of Beta Theta, a women’s philanthropic organization that has been actively serving the South Lake community since 1979, recently came together in support of a meaningful cause by attending the Bras for a Cause event.

Beta Theta president Terry Moherek proudly presented a contribution to the Greater Clermont Cancer Foundation (GCCF), reinforcing their ongoing commitment to giving back and uplifting those in need. The annual Bras for a Cause event is a vibrant and inspiring fundraiser that raises awareness and critical funds to support local individuals and families impacted by cancer.

Beta Theta members embraced the spirit of the evening, joining community leaders, supporters, and advocates in a celebration of strength, creativity, and compassion. Their participation not only highlighted their dedication to philanthropy but also showcased the power of community collaboration in making a difference.

For close to five decades, Beta Theta has remained a cornerstone of service in South Lake, consistently stepping forward to support local initiatives and charitable organizations. Their contribution to GCCF is yet another example of their enduring mission to enrich lives and strengthen the community they proudly serve.

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