Thrive Clermont, in partnership with the City of Clermont and Landi-Lou Talent Agency, is proud to announce its newest fall event, the Teens Got Talent Showcase. This one-of-a-kind stage show and art exhibit will take place on October 22, 2026 at 7 pm in the Clermont Arts and Recreation Center on the Main Stage.

Thrive’s Teens Got Talent Showcase will celebrate the creativity and talent of Lake County students through a live variety show and student art exhibit in a night dedicated to the arts.

“This is an exciting addition to Thrive’s yearly lineup of programs that empower teens to succeed,” said Sheri Lewin, Executive Director of Thrive Clermont. “Our organization is thrilled to partner with the City of Clermont and Landi-Lou Talent Agency to expand opportunities for Lake County teens.”

Students ages 13–18 who reside in Lake County are invited to participate in the virtual audition process during the Call for Talent period from June 1 through July 30, 2026. Individual performers and groups of two to five may submit an online application along with a performance video for consideration. Talents may include singing, dancing, instrumental performance, spoken word, comedy, magic, and other unique acts.

Up to twelve acts will be selected to perform live on October 22 before an audience of more than 700 attendees on the Clermont Main Stage. Led by Landi-Lou Talent Agency, selected performers will receive professional support and mentoring, including stage coaching, professional headshots, and hair & makeup services for the show.

 “Mentoring  upcoming performers through Teens Got Talent Showcase  aligns with our spirit of service and purpose.” says agency Owner Dr. Calandria Smith.”From stage to screen, Landi-Lou Talend Agency is committed to elevating the next generation of standout talent with professionalism, passion, and powerful representation.”

In addition to the live performances, local high school art teachers throughout Lake County will be invited to curate exhibit tables featuring outstanding teen artists from their schools.

The Teens Got Talent Showcase is designed to provide local students with an opportunity to showcase their skills, build confidence, connect with peers, and receive mentorship from professionals in the arts and entertainment industries.

Thrive Clermont is currently seeking cash sponsors, volunteer stage coaches, planning committee members, and in-kind donations. Community members and businesses interested in supporting Teens Got Talent are encouraged to email admin@thriveclermont.org to participate in an upcoming Zoom information meeting.

Additional information, including the Call for Talent application, sponsorship opportunities, and volunteer details, can be found at Teens Got Talent Showcase Information.

Thrive is celebrating 10 YEARS of EMPOWERING TEENS TO SUCCEED.  Over 4,000 teens served since 2016

To learn more about our impact, visit www.thriveclermont.org 

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Central Florida Dreamplex invites the community to a fun and relaxing evening of art, connection, and purpose at its upcoming Paint & Sip Night on Thursday, June 4, from 6 pm to 8 pm at The Friendship Place and Friendly Grounds Café, located at 2400 S. Hwy. 27, Suite 4108, Clermont, FL 34711.

Guests will create a beautiful summer-inspired painting titled “Sunset Over Lake Minneola,” featuring a warm sunset sky, palm silhouettes, and water reflections inspired by the natural beauty of Lake Minneola.

This special evening is more than just a painting class; it is a fundraiser supporting The Friendship Place and Friendly Grounds Café, programs designed to provide meaningful opportunities for creativity, connection, and community engagement for individuals with disabilities and special needs.

For $50 per person, attendees will enjoy:

• Step-by-step painting instruction
• All painting materials
• Two cocktails per person
• Light refreshments and appetizers
• Hand-baked desserts made by The Friendship Place at Friendly Grounds Café

The guided painting experience will be facilitated in partnership with Painting with a Twist – Clermont, ensuring guests of all skill levels can create a masterpiece to take home.

50% of the proceeds from the event will directly benefit programs that empower individuals with disabilities and special needs through social engagement, vocational training, and community inclusion initiatives.

“Events like Paint & Sip allow our community to come together in a meaningful way,” said Cameron Gomes, CEO of Central Florida Dreamplex. “Every ticket purchased helps create opportunities for individuals with disabilities and special needs to build confidence, develop skills, and experience true belonging.”

Spots are limited, and early registration is encouraged. Guests can register online at:
https://www.paintingwithatwist.com/studio/clermont/event/4282724/

To learn more about The Friendship Place and Central Florida Dreamplex, visit www.cfldreamplex.com/friendship-place/

To learn more about the Friendly Grounds Café: www.cfldreamplex.com/friendly-grounds/

About Central Florida Dreamplex
Central Florida Dreamplex is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing therapy, education, social, and recreational programs for individuals with disabilities and special needs. Through innovative and inclusive programming, Dreamplex works to create a community where every person has the opportunity to thrive.

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Guests were treated to a lovely assortment of teas, accompanied by an array of freshly baked scones, delicate finger sandwiches, and beautifully prepared desserts. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, making it easy to linger, sip, and savor every moment.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the dedicated committee whose hard work made the event such a success. Special congratulations to Co-Chairmen Judy Padoan and Ann Bonacki, along with committee members Patty, Linda, Helen, Carol, Christine, Kristy, Gladys, Sylvia, and Sonia. Their attention to detail and thoughtful planning created a truly memorable experience for all who attended.

The Clermont Woman’s Club, chartered in 1927, continues its long-standing tradition of service as a non-profit organization committed to supporting the community. The club meets on the first Tuesday of each month, September through May, at 12:30 p.m. at their clubhouse located at 655 W. Broome Street in Clermont. For more information, visit www.clermontwomansclub.org.

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• Lake County’s Parks and Water Resources office (27351 SR 19, Tavares), Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm.
• Lake County’s Solid Waste Administration office (13130 County Landfill Road, Tavares), Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm
• Trout Lake Nature Center (520 CR 44, Eustis), Tuesday through Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm and 1 pm to 4 pm Sunday.

The post The 2026 Adopt-a-Lake Calendar, Which Showcases Lake County’s Water Bodies, Will Be Available Starting Wednesday, Dec. 3. appeared first on South Lake Tablet.

Place: SLHS – Opponent: Tampa Plant

Score-South Lake High School 37 Tampa Plant 36  3 OT

Game Summary by Coach Lord:

The Eagles would need three overtimes, but persevered beating a tough Tampa Plant team this past Friday night 37 to 36 in the FHSAA Regional quarterfinal. This is the first South Lake playoff win in 25 years and to do it in front of the home crowd was special. This propels South Lake High School to the Regional Semi Finals on Friday November 21 vs Osceola High School at Eagle stadium.

The Eagles would draw first blood in the contest when senior running back Malik Holman plowed his way into the endzone on the Eagles first drive. South Lake would fail on a two-point conversion and the score halfway through the first quarter was 6-0. Late in the first quarter, Tampa Plant would score on a South Lake blown coverage. Plant would make the extra point and take the lead 7-6 into the half as there was no scoring in the second quarter.

In the second half both defenses would play very well. The Eagles would get in the Plant Red zone three times and come away with two field goals giving them a 12-6 lead midway through the fourth quarter. The Panthers would then silence the homme crowd with a 98-yard kickoff return with 3:45 left in the game. Plant would convert on the two-point conversion taking the lead 15-12.  The Eagles then would have their drive of the year. Some strong runs by Holman and a long pass from Tre Kelly to Isaiah Pina would set the Eagles up for a game tying field goal. Chris Mckenna would hit his third field goal of the night from 42 yards to tie the score and send the game into overtime at 15-15. Plant would score first take the lead 22- 15 in the first overtime but the  Eagles would answer as  Kelly would find Pina in the endzone and the extra point was good sending the two teams into a second overtime tied at 22. In the second overtime Kelly would then sweep to the left scoring a touchdown and the extra point was good giving the Eagles a 29-22 lead. Plant would answer in the second overtime sending the game to a third overtime deadlocked at 29-29. Plant would strike first and kick the extra point giving the Panthers a 36-29 lead in the third overtime. Holman would then find Cam Johnson in the endzone and the score was then 36-35. Plant would jump off sides while the eagles were in extra point formation. With the ball being spotted at the 1yard line the Eagle coaching staff rolled the dice and went for two. Holman would rumble to the right behind Jesse Barker and Quoy Nelson giving South Lake their first home playoff victory in 25 years.

McKenna kicked three field goals in the win, the last one a 44-yarder with 2:24 remaining in regulation to send the game into overtime. He also was good from 32 and 42 yards.

Holman carried the ball 37 times for 258 yards and a touchdown. Junior quarterback Tre Kelly was 13-of-22 passing for 242 yards and 2 touchdowns. Isaiah Pina caught 5 passes for 136 yards and a TD. Keydrick Powell and Cam Johnson had TD catches.  Tyson Williams had 14 tackles and Chase Coello also had 11 tackles. Jesse Barker had 9 tackles and a sack. “ We wanted this playoff win for our school and our community. We have a ton of work to do to be ready for Osceola next week, They are a seasoned team that played in the State championship a season ago. We are excited about the challenge it presents.”

Date of Next Game-  FHSSA Playoff Regional Semi Final November 21, 2025 @ South Lake High School Vs Osceola High School Kissimmee time 7 PM.

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Goodwill Industries of Central Florida is donating all of its November round up at the register proceeds to Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida.

Second Harvest Food Bank is a vital organization dedicated to providing families in need of food with access to groceries. At a time when many families are facing heightened food insecurity, Goodwill Industries of Central Florida is proud to support the work of Second Harvest Food Bank.

Throughout November, Goodwill shoppers in Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Brevard, Volusia and Lake counties can round up their purchases to the nearest dollar, with the money raised helping Second Harvest purchase and distribute meals to local families in need. Goodwill will match the community donations up to $10,000.

“For every dollar donated at the register, you’re giving a family four meals to put on their table,” said Dr. Bahíyyah Maroon, Goodwill’s Vice President of Mission Impact. “With support from our shoppers, we can join Second Harvest in its mission to minimize hunger and food anxieties in our community even as so many in our area face the uncertainty after losing SNAP benefits at the start of November.”

Close to 3 million people in the state rely on SNAP, including nearly 500,000 in Central Florida.

“SNAP provides nine meals for every one that food banks like Second Harvest can offer,” said Derrick Chubbs, President and CEO. “When that support is interrupted, it takes all of us working together to fill the gap. We’re grateful to Goodwill and their customers for stepping up to help us bridge the meal gap and make sure our neighbors have the food they need.”

For more information about Goodwill stores in your area, visit www.GoodwillCFL.org.

 *****

About Goodwill Industries of Central Florida, Inc. (GICF)   

For more than 60 years, Goodwill Industries of Central Florida has provided vocational and job placement services to tens of thousands of people living in Central Florida. Through 31 retail/outlet stores and 21 Donation Xpress locations in Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Brevard, Lake and Volusia counties, Goodwill diverted nearly 24 million pounds of clothing and household items from landfills in 2024. Goodwill Industries of Central Florida directly channels more than 90 percent of its annual revenue into programs that enable individuals to secure meaningful employment, achieve their personal goals and thrive economically.

About Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida (SHFBCF)

SHFBCF is a member of Feeding America – the largest charitable domestic hunger-relief organization in the United States. SHFBCF secures and distributes food and grocery products to more than 870 local nonprofit feeding partners throughout Central Florida. With the help of food and financial donors, volunteers and a caring, committed community, the food bank distributes 300,000 meals every day to a seven-county service area, which includes Brevard, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Seminole and Volusia. Feeding neighbors facing hunger is only the beginning. By investing in job training programs, advocating for access to nutritious foods, and inspiring our community to get involved, SHFBCF is leaning into the root causes of hunger and helping our neighbors thrive. With support from the Central Florida community, Second Harvest Food Bank is feeding inspiration, change, achievement, health — and families facing hunger.  To learn more about SHFBCF, visit FeedHopeNow.org.

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Clermont Police Chief John Graczyk led his team of Clermont Police officers, while Kay Barnett, CEO of AdventHealth Minneola, rallied her team of doctors.

TO SEE VIDEO CLIP-ITS OF THE BATTLE FOR HOPE, CLICK ON
“WATCH ON YOUTUBE”

 The evening began with warm welcomes and introductions from Holly Grant, Development Manager of Find, Feed & Restore.

Lake County Commissioner Sean Parks offered the invocation, and Johanna Grant, Worship Leader at Living Message Church, delivered a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem. AdventHealth Minneola, under the leadership of Kay Barnett, proudly served as the presenting sponsor.

About Find, Feed & Restore – Find, Feed & Restore exists to eliminate homelessness for families with children and individuals in Lake County. Guided by their mission of “Housing for All People, At All Times,” the organization provides:

• Housing First: Transitional housing for families with children, offering 6–12 months of low- or no-cost living while they work toward self-sufficiency.

• Affordable Housing: Permanent, affordable housing solutions for working families.

• Care Coach: A mobile outreach unit delivering hot meals, fresh food, housing assistance, and health screenings to underserved communities.

• Homelessness Avoidance: Emergency assistance for families or individuals at risk of losing their homes due to temporary hardships.

The need is urgent. In Florida, the state ranks 4th in the nation for the number of homeless children. By the age of eight, 33% of homeless children face serious mental health challenges. In Lake County, 64% of disabled veterans and single mothers are being priced out of housing.

The Battle – After dinner, the fast-paced and entertaining showdown began. The teams gave it their all—but in the end, the Cops, once again, claimed victory over their opponents.

The real winners, however, were the families who will benefit from the funds raised through the event. Battle for Hope was not only competitive and fun—it was a powerful reminder of what the community can achieve when it comes together for a cause that truly matters.

After the battle, guests heard a powerful testimony as Lisa Bishop, Program Director of Find, Feed & Restore, interviewed an abused, homeless Lake County teacher whose story shed light on the struggles faced by too many in the community.

Founders Brian and Allison Broadway then made a heartfelt appeal for continued support and funding to sustain the organization’s vital work.

TO LEARN MORE OR HELP SUPPORT FIND, FEED, RESTORE,  CLICK ON HOPE!

MORE PICTURES OF THE EVENT

Cops vs Docs

1 of 8

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Beta Theta, a community service organization, proudly supports the mission of Wreaths Across America by remembering the fallen, honoring those who serve, and teaching the next generation the value of freedom. Each year, the organization participates as a sponsor in National Wreaths Across America Day, continuing its commitment to patriotic service and remembrance.

This year, National Wreaths Across America Day will take place on Saturday, December 13, 2025. On this day, more than two million volunteers and supporters will gather at over 4,900 locations across all 50 states, at sea, and abroad, to lay wreaths on the graves of our nation’s heroes.

Locally, wreaths will be placed on the graves of soldiers in South Lake County and at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, ensuring that these men and women are remembered for their service and sacrifice.

For many Beta Theta members, this mission is deeply personal. A number of members have had family or loved ones who served their country, making their participation in Wreaths Across America both meaningful and heartfelt.

Through their ongoing efforts, Beta Theta helps keep the memory of our veterans alive and inspires future generations to understand the true cost of freedom.

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