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Sunshine State Invitational Regatta Brings Top Division II Collegiate Rowing Programs to Clermont, Florida

Michelle Delaney — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 18:57:54 +0000

by Dana Lancaster-Kelly, Lake County Rowing Association

This weekend, eight Division II collegiate rowing programs from across the United States will converge in Clermont, Florida, for the Sunshine State Invitational Regatta (SSC) — a rare and highly anticipated opportunity for DII teams to compete head-to-head ahead of championship season.

Hosted by Lake County Rowing Association, the regatta will take place over two days of racing on Saturday and Sunday, April 4–5. The event aims to fill a longstanding gap in the Division II rowing calendar by creating meaningful, high-level competition outside of conference and championship events.

“Opportunities like this are incredibly valuable for Division II programs,” said event organizers. “Bringing multiple teams together in a competitive environment this close to championship season allows athletes and coaches to benchmark performance, build connections, and elevate the overall level of racing across the division.”

Participating Programs:

Cal Poly Humboldt
Seattle Pacific University
University of Central Oklahoma
Rollins College Rowing
Barry University Rowing
Nova Southeastern University Rowing
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Vanderbilt University

Racing will take place throughout the day on both Saturday and Sunday, with spectators, supporters, and members of the rowing community encouraged to attend.

For more information about the Sunshine State Invitational Regatta, including race schedules and participating teams, please get in touch with the event organizers or Lake County Rowing Association.

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No Kings Rally Beginning At Clermont City Hall On March 28 At 10 am

Michelle Delaney — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 23:11:22 +0000

A peaceful demonstration organized by Lake County Indivisibles is set to take place on Saturday, March 28, as part of a growing national movement advocating for democratic values and civic engagement.

The event will begin at 10 am with a rally at Clermont City Hall, 685 West Montrose St., where participants will gather before marching to State Road 50. Demonstrators plan to chant and wave signs along the roadway, drawing attention to their message of unity and resistance.

Organizers say the movement, which began in 2025 as a single day of coordinated action, has evolved into a sustained nationwide effort. What started in small towns has expanded into communities across the country, with participants متحد in their commitment to what they describe as the defense of democracy.

The rally centers around the theme “No Thrones. No Crowns. No Kings,” emphasizing a rejection of authoritarianism and a call for collective civic power. Participants say the demonstration is intended to amplify concerns over economic pressures facing families and policies they view as harmful to their communities.

A key principle of the event is a strict commitment to nonviolent action. Organizers are urging all attendees to act lawfully, avoid confrontation, and help de-escalate any tensions that may arise. For safety and to maintain a peaceful environment, participants are asked not to bring weapons of any kind, including those that may be legally permitted.

Community members are encouraged to attend and make their voices heard. Organizers also note that donations to Lake County Indivisibles will help support future initiatives, including local events, town halls, and advocacy efforts at the state level in Tallahassee.

For additional information, visit NO KINGS RALLIES

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Pig On The Pond Community Festival Returns to Clermont March 27–29 With BBQ, Live Entertainment, And New Sensory-Friendly Experiences

Michelle Delaney — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 12:42:00 +0000

Amanda Nethero, Pig On The Pond

The 27th Annual Pig on the Pond Community Festival, presented by Kalos Services and the City of Clermont, returns to Clermont Waterfront Park March 27–29, 2026, bringing three days of live music, BBQ, carnival rides, and family-friendly activities to South Lake County.

Pig on the Pond serves as the primary fundraiser for Project Scholars, a local scholarship program that helps South Lake students pursue higher education and future career opportunities.

This year’s festival introduces new sensory-friendly initiatives designed to make the event more inclusive for families of all abilities.

On Sunday, March 29 at 10 a.m., Lily Pad Hour will offer a sensory-friendly carnival experience with reduced lights and sound levels, creating a calmer environment for children and families who benefit from a quieter setting.

Throughout the festival, families can also access the Sensory Reset Tent, sponsored by Gabriel Therapy Group, which provides a quiet space for guests who may feel overstimulated and need a moment to regroup before returning to the festivities.

“Pig on the Pond has always been about bringing the community together,” said Project Scholars Board President Paul Rountree. “By introducing Lily Pad Hour and the Sensory Reset Tent, we are ensuring more families can comfortably enjoy everything the festival has to offer.”

Festival highlights include a BBQ competition featuring talented pitmasters, the People’s Choice BBQ sponsored by Don Mealy Chevrolet, and the Junior Grillmasters Competition presented by Publix, where young chefs showcase their grilling skills.

Additional attractions include a full carnival midway with expanded rides overlooking Lake Minneola, pig races, a Kids Zone, and live entertainment throughout the weekend.

Guests can also enjoy the Beer Tent sponsored by Hyundai of Central Florida and a Saturday night fireworks show sponsored by Dan Newlin Injury Attorneys.

Pig on the Pond has grown into one of South Lake County’s most anticipated annual festivals, welcoming thousands of visitors each year while supporting local students through the Project Scholars scholarship program.

Advance tickets are available at https://bit.ly/4jymWDX.
More information, including the full festival schedule, can be found at www.pigonthepond.org.
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About Pig on the Pond
Pig on the Pond is an annual community festival that benefits Project Scholars, a scholarship initiative dedicated to helping South Lake County students access higher education opportunities. Through community participation and support, the festival helps invest in the next generation of local leaders.

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Clermont’s 8th Annual Irish Fest Promises A Shamrockin’ Good Time

Michelle Delaney — Sun, 08 Mar 2026 03:59:21 +0000

The 8th Annual Irish Fest will bring a festive touch of Ireland to downtown Clermont with two days of live entertainment, food, and community celebration.

Hosted by Suncreek Brewery and Michael’s Ali Coal Fired Pizza & Cafe, the event will take place Friday and Saturday, March 14–15, in Downtown Clermont. The family-friendly celebration will feature live entertainment, traditional Irish food, and plenty of Irish beer, creating a lively atmosphere for guests to enjoy throughout the weekend.

Visitors can expect music, festive activities, and the welcoming spirit that has made the Irish Fest a popular annual tradition in the community.

Admission is free, and residents and visitors alike are invited to come out, celebrate Irish culture, and enjoy the festivities in downtown Clermont.

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Sprouts Farmers Market Celebrates Grand Opening in Clermont

Michelle Delaney — Sat, 07 Mar 2026 02:45:27 +0000

A new grocery option has opened its doors in South Lake County ….Sprouts Farmers Market celebrates the grand opening of its newest location at 3420 S. U.S. Highway 27 at the intersection of U.S. 27 and Citrus Tower Boulevard in Clermont.

The store officially opened at 7 am on Friday, March 6, with a grand opening celebration and will continue through Sunday, March 8.

To mark the occasion, the first 200 customers on Friday and Saturday will receive a free reusable tote bag filled with samples. Friday morning’s first 400 guests were handed fresh long-stem roses courtesy of Falcon Farms Floral. To further celebrate the opening, the East Ridge High School marching band and cheerleaders engaged the crowd.

Throughout the weekend, shoppers can enjoy a pop-up party featuring tastings and games, giving the community an opportunity to explore the store and sample some of the products available at the new market.

The opening brings another grocery option to Clermont residents and visitors, offering fresh foods and specialty items in the rapidly growing U.S. 27 corridor.

If you get a chance, drop by or learn more by visit their website: SPROUTS.

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Montverde Residents Invited to “Caturday School Roadshow” On Tuesday, March 3

Michelle Delaney — Sat, 28 Feb 2026 02:06:38 +0000

Montverde residents who love their community — and its cats — are invited to a fun and informative evening focused on making a positive difference.

On Tuesday, March 3, from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm, the Caturday School Roadshow will roll into town at Gather on Seventh, located at 17440 County Road 455.

Hosted by the Lake County Animal Shelter and LEASH, Inc., this FREE Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return (TNVR) workshop is designed to help residents become part of the solution to pet overpopulation in the community.

The workshop — affectionately called “Caturday School” — will cover TNVR basics, demonstrate how to safely set humane traps (even for those hard-to-catch cats), and share best practices for managing community cats responsibly and effectively. Whether you’re already caring for neighborhood cats or simply want to learn more, this session offers practical, hands-on guidance in a supportive environment.

As an added bonus, attendees will receive three FREE future TNVR appointment coupons, making it even easier to put what they’ve learned into action.

Residents are encouraged to register for Caturday School Roadshow by following the information provided in the event flyer.

If you’ve ever wondered how you can help reduce pet overpopulation while improving the lives of community cats, this is your chance to learn, connect, and make a meaningful impact — one paw at a time.

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Fifth Annual Clermont Honoring the Fallen 5K Set for February 21

Michelle Delaney — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 14:16:34 +0000

The Clermont Police Department invites the community to participate in the Fifth Annual Clermont Honoring the Fallen 5K, set for Saturday, February 21, in the heart of Downtown Clermont.

Previously known as the Conrad Buckley Legacy Scholarship 5K, this year’s event pays tribute to the nearly 80 law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty in 2025. The race serves as both a memorial and a show of support for those who continue to serve.

All proceeds and donations from the event will benefit Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) and the Code 4 Initiative, organizations dedicated to providing critical assistance to officers and their families during times of need.

The race will begin and end at Suncreek Brewery, located at 790 W. Minneola Ave., Clermont, FL 34711. Participants will enjoy a scenic out-and-back course along the South Lake Trail, traveling 1.5 miles in each direction. A mid-course aid station will be available, which runners will pass twice for hydration.

Packet Pickup:
Packet pickup will take place at Dash Sports, 741 W. Montrose Street in Downtown Clermont.

Thursday, February 19 and Friday, February 20
2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Race day packet pickup will be available at Suncreek Brewery from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Participants are encouraged to pick up packets in advance, as packets not claimed before the event will not be held and post-race swag requests cannot be accommodated.

5:30 p.m. – Pre-Race Ceremony
6:00 p.m. – Race Start
7:00 p.m. – Awards Ceremony

All registered participants will receive an event shirt (while supplies last), a chip-timed bib, a custom finisher medal, post-race snacks, and one complimentary draft beer at Suncreek Brewery for participants age 21 and older.

Participants can earn a $20 refund when five friends register using their personal referral link, which is included in the registration confirmation email.

Teams and families of four or more will receive a $5 discount per participant. The first three registrants pay full price; once a fourth member joins, the discount is automatically applied and refunds are issued to the first three participants. Additional team members will automatically receive the discounted rate.

Awards will be presented at approximately 7:00 p.m. in the following categories:

Overall Top Male and Female
Masters Top Male and Female
Top three Male and Female finishers in five-year age groups (9 and under through 75+)

Dogs are not permitted on the race course or in the start and finish areas. Service animals are allowed with prior notice. Strollers are welcome; however, participants using strollers are asked to begin toward the back of the starting group for safety.

Community members are encouraged to come out, run, and show their support for fallen officers and their families while enjoying an evening in beautiful Downtown Clermont.

The post Fifth Annual Clermont Honoring the Fallen 5K Set for February 21 appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

Mascotte Presents Black History Month Soul Food Cook-Off And More! (Feb 21)

Michelle Delaney — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 18:03:13 +0000

The Black History Month Soul Food Cook-Off has received such an overwhelming response from the community that the flyer had to be updated to add even more participants—and that alone tells you this is going to be an incredible event.

The love, talent, and hometown pride for this celebration are truly unmatched. With the final lineup now set, it’s clear the community is in for a real treat!

Make plans to join the Mascotte’s 3rd Annual Black History Month Celebration on February 21 from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm at Sunset Lake Park, located at the corner of S. Sunset Avenue and Putnam Street.

Enjoy an afternoon filled with:

Delicious food
Face painting
Crafts
DJ entertainment
Live performances
And the highly anticipated Soul Food Competition

Below are categories included in this year’s competition, honoring traditions and flavors:

Desserts
Collard Greens
Cornbread
Black-Eyed Peas

Bring the whole family and come ready to celebrate food, culture, and community.

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South Lake High School Boys Soccer Team Defeats Niceville

Michelle Delaney — Sun, 08 Feb 2026 00:19:01 +0000

by Mike Delaney, South Lake Tablet

The South Lake High School (SLHS) boys soccer team pulled off a stunning upset on the road last night, defeating Niceville—ranked No. 1 in Florida Class 6A—in the regional quarterfinals.

SLHS trailed 3–0 in the second half but mounted a remarkable comeback, tying the match with just one minute remaining in regulation.

After two scoreless 10-minute overtime periods, the game was decided by penalty kicks. South Lake prevailed in the shootout, 3–1.

The Eagles will travel to face Buchholz on Thursday, February 12.

Congratulations and Good Luck Eagles!

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Clermont First Saturday Family Food Fest Returns February 7

Michelle Delaney — Sat, 07 Feb 2026 01:42:39 +0000

Downtown Clermont will come alive on Saturday, February 7, as the popular First Saturday Family Food Fest welcomes residents and visitors for an event filled with food, music, and family-friendly fun. The event runs from 4 pm to 8 pm and takes place throughout historic Downtown Clermont.

Held monthly, the Family Food Fest features a rotating lineup of food trucks offering a wide variety of flavors, along with live music and activities designed for all ages. Guests are invited to eat, shop, and stroll the charming downtown streets while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

Whether attending with family or friends, the First Saturday Family Food Fest continues to be a go-to gathering spot for fun in downtown Clermont.

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