The energy inside the Clermont Arts and Recreation Center on Saturday, April 11, was electric—charged not only with creativity, but with courage, compassion, and an unbreakable sense of community. The 17th annual “Bras for the Cause and Boxers Too,” presented by the Greater Clermont Cancer Foundation, transformed the venue into a powerful stage where hope walked the runway and generosity filled the room.

1 of 6

With this year’s bold “Guns N Hoses” theme, the evening delivered both excitement and heartfelt moments, all in support of the Foundation’s mission: providing financial assistance, comfort, and support to local residents battling cancer across South Lake County and surrounding areas. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit funded entirely by community generosity—and proudly run by 100% volunteers—the Foundation continues to stand as a beacon of care for those facing life’s toughest fight.

Guests were warmly welcomed by Chairperson and Events Coordinator Marie Howd, who set the tone for an unforgettable evening. Masters of Ceremonies Eileen Scates and Kelly McGillicuddy, along with spirited auctioneer Billy Flanigan, guided the audience through a night filled with laughter, generosity, and inspiration.

One of the most emotional moments came when the spotlight turned to a tribute to Holly Nichols, a beautiful beloved supporter and model who is now courageously battling cancer herself. Attendees rose to their feet in a powerful show of unity—honoring not only Holly, but all local residents fighting this devastating disease. It was a moment that captured the very heart of the evening: love, resilience, and unwavering support.

The highlight of the night—a dazzling runway show and live auction—featured creatively designed bras and boxers, each piece uniquely crafted and modeled by local community members and business leaders. The creativity on display was matched only by the generosity in the room, as the live auction and additional silent auction items together raised an astounding $60,000+ to benefit the Foundation’s mission.

Adding an element of surprise and delight, Kay Simpson, Director and Treasurer of GCCF, took to the runway as a model, earning cheers and admiration from the crowd.

Guests also indulged in a delicious spread of savory bites, sweet treats, and refreshing beverages, generously provided by a variety of local exhibitors, creating a festive atmosphere that complemented the evening’s meaningful purpose.

1 of 14

Behind the scenes—and on the runway—were the talented designers who brought the show to life: Michelle Hylton, Margo Magura, Kristi Hughes, Tammy Morris, Melissa Cabral, Haley Hall, Texas Roadhouse, Buffalo Wild Wings, Linda Beebe, Aiesha Mullings, Katelyn Raber, Jessica Cabrera, Kim Domsic, Anita Schuler, Anita Radcliffe, Danielle Duppenthaler, and Stacie Romero. Their creativity turned fabric into powerful symbols of hope and healing.

As the evening came to a close, one thing was abundantly clear: this was more than an event. It was a celebration of life, a rally for those in need, and a testament to what a compassionate community can accomplish together. Through laughter, tears, and generosity, the Greater Clermont Cancer Foundation once again proved that no one in this community fights cancer alone.

The post Bras for the Cause and Boxers Too Presents Guns N Hoses appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

By Grace Rabano & The Clermont Garden Club

 

Every month from September through May, Clermont Garden Club members loan plants to Cooper Memorial Library and Clermont City Hall to promote horticulture awareness and connect our community to Clermont Garden Club’s programs, civic activities and community outreach. 

For the month of April 2026, Clermont Garden Club member Tina Worrell loaned a Swiss Cheese Plant (Monsteradeliciosa) to Cooper Memorial Library. The Swiss Cheese Plant is a popular tropical climbing vine known for its dramatic, hole-filled leaves. Native to Central American rainforests, it is a stunning ornamental houseplant. The plant undergoes Leaf Transformation: Young Monstera leaves are solid and heart-shaped. As the plant matures and receives enough light, it develops “fenestration” – the characteristic holes and splits that help the plant withstand heavy rain and wind in the wild. Monstera deliciosa can grow 30-70 feet in the wild but usually reaches 6-8 feet indoors. They thrive in bright, indirect light, but can tolerate some shade. Soil should be kept slightly damp, allowing the top inch to dry out between waterings. As epiphytic climbers, the plant may benefit from having support such as a moss pole or stake.

Leslie Lugo loaned a Philodendron Bipinnatifidum (also called Philodendron selloum or ‘Ring of Fire’) to Clermont City Hall. The Philodendron Ring of Fire is a sought-after hybrid houseplant known for its long, striking variegated leaves that feature a blend of colors including green, yellow, orange and even red with serrated edges.

 

This slow growing plant is native to South America, and like other Philodendron plants is toxic if ingested by pets or humans. As a tropical plant, it enjoys warm slightly humid conditions and bright indirect light to maintain its variegation. Direct sunlight may scorch the leaves. Keep soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. 

 

Clermont Garden Club is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our clubhouse at 849 West Ave., in historic downtown Clermont, is available for rentals for meetings, birthday celebrations, showers, etc. See clermontgardenclub.org for more information.

 

 

The post Planting Knowledge in the Community, Apr2026: Plants for Cooper Memorial Library & Clermont City Hall appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

That mission is evident in Ivy’s Day Services. The center’s name is inspired by his grandmother, whose spirit of kindness, generosity, and genuine care continues to shape the heart behind this work. That legacy is felt the moment you step into the space it is welcoming, intentional, and built on the belief that every family deserves support.

• Tutoring to strengthen academic confidence
• ABA therapy to support development and independence
• CPR and First Aid training to equip families and community members
• Notary services to assist with everyday needs

What stands out to me is not just what is offered, but how it is offered with care, accessibility, and a genuine desire to serve. Families in Mascotte can find these resources at 376 E Myers Blvd, Suite E, or reach out directly at 407-288-4665 to learn more.

The post From Awareness to Action: Where Purpose Meets Community for Families in Mascotte appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

The post Mascotte Student-Athlete Anthony Brooks Shines as Lake County’s Top Middle School Sprinter appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

The Montverde Academy Music Conservatory proudly presented String-A-Palooza in the Sandra O. Stephens Fine Arts Auditorium, celebrating the dedication and talent of student musicians across multiple grade levels.

Under the direction of Mr. Andres Villa, Director of Strings, and with support from Lower School music teacher Ms. Kate Zeng and accompanist Mr. Aubrey Connelly-Candelario, the evening featured a dynamic and inspiring program highlighting the growth of MVA’s young artists, from second-grade beginners to advanced orchestra performers.

The Eagle Orchestra captivated the audience with expressive and energetic selections including “Canyon Sunset” by John Caponegro, “Ancient Lore on Rocky Shore” by Chris Thomas, “Dragon Slayer” by Rob Grice, and “Frog and Toad” by Carrie Lane Gruselle. A special guitar performance of “Crow” by Steve Lim added a unique musical dimension to the evening.

The Eaglet Orchestra continued the momentum with “Colossus” by Larry Clark, “Russian Music Box” by Soon Hee Newbold, and  “Impulse” by Brian Balmages, demonstrating impressive musicianship and ensemble unity.

Lower School violinists delighted the audience with foundational pieces such as “Open String Blues,” “Serenata,” and “Puppet Parade,” while third graders performed selections from Essential Elements by Michael Allen and Robert Gillespie. The concert concluded with a heartwarming combined performance of “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star,” showcasing the collaborative spirit and steady progression of our youngest string players.

String-A-Palooza reflected the strength of the music program at MVA and the passion of students who continue to grow as confident performers and musicians.

The post String-A-Palooza Showcases The Power Of Young Musicians At Montverde Academy appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

The Live Well Foundation of South Lake has announced the release of a new Request for Proposals focused on Nutrition and Healthy Eating, continuing its commitment to improving health and wellness across the South Lake community.

This targeted funding opportunity will support nonprofit organizations working to expand access to nutritious food, strengthen food security, and promote sustainable, community-driven solutions that improve overall well-being.

Grant awards will range from $50,000 to $250,000, with the potential for larger, multi-year investments for projects that demonstrate significant impact.

“The connection between nutrition and long-term health outcomes is undeniable,” said Donna Kirtland, Executive Director of the Live Well Foundation of South Lake. “We are proud to support organizations that are addressing food access, education, and sustainability in ways that create lasting change for our community.”

The Foundation is seeking proposals that address key areas including access to nutritious food, nutrition education and skill building, food security and stability, and equitable and sustainable food systems.

Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations serving residents within the South Lake region, including Clermont, Groveland, Mascotte, Minneola, Montverde, and surrounding areas.

Applications will open the week of April 1, 2026, with a submission deadline of May 15, 2026, at 11:59 pm. Selected applicants may be invited to participate in interviews in July, with grant awards announced the week of July 27.

Organizations interested in applying must submit their proposals through the Live Well Foundation’s online Grants Portal. Additional information, eligibility requirements, and application details are available at www.LWFSL.org.

About Live Well Foundation of South Lake – Established in 2019, the Live Well Foundation of South Lake is a private 501(c)(3) foundation dedicated to improving the health and wellness of South Lake County. The Foundation fulfills its mission through strategic grantmaking that supports sustainable, community-based initiatives focused on long-term impact.

Live Well Foundation of South Lake invests in solutions that strengthen individual and community well-being, guided by a commitment to measurable outcomes and responsible stewardship. Its work is grounded in a simple return on investment: better health, for life.

The post Live Well Foundation of South Lake Announces Nutrition and Healthy Eating Grant Opportunity appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

Three robotics teams from Grassy Lake Elementary School have earned invitations to compete in the prestigious VEX Elementary Robotics World Championship in St. Louis, Missouri, April 21–30, 2026—an extraordinary achievement that places them among just 400 teams selected from around the globe.

The international event will bring together top young innovators from countries including China, Saudi Arabia, and Australia, offering students a rare opportunity to showcase their skills on a global stage.

While this accomplishment marks a significant milestone for the students and school, participation comes with substantial costs. To help offset registration and travel expenses, the teams have sought support from local businesses and community partners.

Answering that call was Denise Calderon, CPA, who, without hesitation, committed to supporting the program. Not only did she agree to sponsor the teams, but she also stepped forward as the Title Sponsor, the highest level of sponsorship available.

“Denise and her team’s generosity and belief in these students exceeded anything we could have hoped for,” said a Grassy Lake Elementary volunteer parent. “Her focus was never on recognition—it was simply about helping these kids reach St. Louis and experience something truly life-changing.”

Calderon’s contribution represents a significant investment for a local small business and underscores her dedication to the community and its youth. Her support will directly enable students to participate in a once-in-a-lifetime educational experience, competing and collaborating with peers from around the world.

As Grassy Lake Elementary celebrates this achievement, the school community is eager to recognize Calderon and her team for their outstanding commitment to student success.

Interested in Helping?

Sponsorship Contact:
Eric Wood
Parent Volunteer
352-617-8583
EricBWood@gmail.com

Sponsorship & School Contact:
Mrs. Becky Antill
Grassy Lake Elementary School
STEAM Enrichment Teacher & Robotics Coach
AntillB@lake.k12.fl.us
(352) 242-0313

About Grassy Lake Elementary Robotics
Grassy Lake Elementary’s robotics program empowers students to develop skills in engineering, coding, teamwork, and problem-solving through competitive robotics challenges. The program fosters innovation and prepares students for future opportunities in STEM fields.

The post Grassy Lake Elementary Robotics Teams Advance to World Championship with Support from Local Business Leader appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

Visitors strolling along the lake were treated to an impressive sight—thousands of buoys precisely anchored in lanes stretching from the Salt Shack to the Tiki Bar. The organized course set the stage for exciting competition as the Lake County Rowing Association and teams from across Florida raced for the win.

Spectators lined the shoreline in lawn chairs, cheering on the athletes, while food trucks at Victory Pointe offered a variety of refreshments, creating a lively and family-friendly atmosphere.

The regatta, featuring some of the fastest high school crews in the region, was free to attend. It was hosted by the Lake County Rowing Association (LRCA), a nonprofit organization founded in 2011 with a mission to promote rowing in Lake County and to welcome visitors from across the nation to experience its beautiful lakes and waterways.

To view results click https://crewtimer.com/regatta/r15563

Complete details of the event will be coming soon.

The post The Fastest High School Crews Were At Lake Minneola appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

The “No Kings” rallies, held across all 50 states, drew millions of participants nationwide and around the world in a coordinated show of protest against policies of President Donald Trump. Organizers described the movement as a response to what they view as growing concerns over economic pressures, civil rights, and the state of American democracy. 

Protesters voiced opposition to a range of issues, including rising costs affecting families, threats to freedom of speech and voting rights, and what they characterized as government overreach. Demonstrators also expressed concern about immigration enforcement actions, including the presence of ICE agents in cities such as Minneapolis, and criticized what they described as policies contributing to instability and division.

The rallies were unified under the theme “No Thrones. No Crowns. No Kings,” emphasizing a rejection of authoritarianism and a belief that power in America belongs to the people—not to political leaders or wealthy elites.

Locally, a peaceful demonstration took place in Clermont on Saturday, March 28, organized by Lake County Indivisibles as part of the broader national movement.

The event began at 10 am at Clermont City Hall, 685 West Montrose Street, where participants gathered before marching to State Road 50.

Attendees carried signs, some brought folding chairs, and all raised their voices in a calm but determined show of civic engagement. With clear skies and pleasant weather, organizers noted it was a beautiful day for the rally. 

On SR 50, demonstrators lined the roadway, chanting and waving signs to draw attention to their message of unity and resistance. The event reflected the movement’s evolution from a single day of action in 2025 into an ongoing nationwide effort, with participation expanding from small towns to communities across the country.

A central principle of the rally was a strict commitment to nonviolent action. Organizers urged participants to remain respectful, avoid confrontation, and help de-escalate any potential tensions. For safety, attendees were asked not to bring weapons of any kind, even those legally permitted.

Community members were encouraged to participate and make their voices heard. Organizers also noted that donations to Lake County Indivisibles would support future initiatives, including local events, town halls, and advocacy efforts at the state level in Tallahassee.

The post “No Kings” Rally Draws Nationwide Crowds, Including Peaceful Demonstration In Clermont appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

At its meeting on Tuesday, March 24, the Clermont City Council considered a proposal that could have significantly changed how long its members serve in office—but ultimately chose to leave the current system in place.

Mayor Tim Murry brought forward an agenda item for discussion and possible action to amend the City Charter, proposing that council member terms be extended from two years to four years. The measure, if approved by the Council, would have required staff to draft an ordinance for both first and final readings, along with public advertising. Final approval would have placed the proposed amendment on the November ballot, allowing Clermont voters to make the decision.

Supporters of the change pointed to several potential benefits. Extending terms to four years was described as a way to provide greater stability and continuity in city leadership. Longer terms could allow council members to focus more on governing rather than campaigning. Additionally, aligning elections with statewide election years could save the City an estimated $80,000 to $160,000 in election costs.

During public comment, the majority of speakers expressed support for the proposed four-year terms, noting that term limits would still apply. Under the proposal, council members would be limited to a total of eight years in office, with no reset provision.

Several residents emphasized that the decision should ultimately rest with voters, urging the Council to allow the issue to appear on the ballot for public consideration.

After extensive discussion, however, the Council voted 3-2 against moving the proposal forward. The decision keeps the current two-year term structure in place and removes the possibility of voter input on the issue at this time.

In a separate but related concern raised during the meeting, residents voiced dissatisfaction with the current 3:00 pm meeting start time, citing accessibility challenges for those who work during the day. While some advocated for a return to the previous 6:30 pm meeting schedule, that change does not appear to have strong support among council members.

The discussion highlighted ongoing tensions between governance efficiency and public participation—issues likely to remain part of future conversations at City Hall.

The post Clermont City Council Declines Proposal To Extend Term Lengths appeared first on South Lake Tablet.