South Lake Tablet

Lion’s Den Mentorship Inc. Creates the Best Easter Ever for Local Youth

Michelle Delaney — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 00:29:10 +0000

by Robin Hughes

This Easter season, Lion’s Den Mentorship Inc. transformed an ordinary holiday into an unforgettable experience for youth and families across the community, creating what many parents and children are now calling the best Easter ever.

Through thoughtfully planned Easter egg deliveries, personalized letters, and special surprises tailored to each child, the nonprofit created moments filled with joy, wonder, and love. What made the initiative especially meaningful was the personal touch behind every delivery. Each child received customized letters and surprises that made them feel seen, celebrated, and deeply valued. Families quickly began sharing heartfelt feedback, expressing how meaningful it was to watch their children light up with excitement.

Several parents shared that this was the most memorable Easter their children had ever experienced, with many saying, “This was the best Easter ever.” For Lion’s Den Mentorship Inc., the Easter initiative was about much more than baskets and candy. It was about creating positive childhood memories, strengthening hope, and reminding youth that they are supported by a village that truly cares.

A special shoutout goes to Daniel Hughes, President of Lion’s Den Mentorship Inc., who stepped into the role of the Easter Bunny and helped make the experience magical for the children served. His heart for youth and commitment to bringing joy to families reflected the very mission of the organization.

At Lion’s Den Mentorship Inc., moments like these are a reminder that small acts of kindness can leave lasting impacts. By creating intentional experiences filled with love and personal connection, the organization continues to pour into the lives of young people and families in ways that matter most. As photos, smiles, and stories continue to pour in from grateful parents, one thing is clear: this Easter was more than a celebration—it was a memory that these children will carry with them for years to come.

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Lake County Commissioner Sean Parks to participate In Statewide Wildlife Corridor Expedition

Michelle Delaney — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 20:40:48 +0000

submitted by Jeff Foley, Lake County

Lake County Commissioner Sean Parks will join state and regional leaders in the upcoming Longleaf to Lighthouse Expedition, an immersive conservation experience hosted by the Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation.

Beginning Tuesday, April 21, the week-long expedition will trace a vital portion of the Florida Wildlife Corridor. Participants will journey from the Red Hills of southern Georgia to the Gulf Coast at St. Marks Lighthouse. Commissioner Parks will be joined by Polk County Commissioner Becky Troutman, Tallahassee City Commissioner Jack Porter, and Leon County Commissioner Rick Minor.

Participants will travel through diverse landscapes, including longleaf pine forests, floodplain swamps, working lands, and coastal marshes. Their trip will highlight the connectivity of the natural systems that support Florida’s water resources and wildlife habitats.

Commissioner Parks’ participation underscores Lake County’s continued commitment to conservation, responsible growth, and environmental stewardship.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to experience Florida’s natural landscapes in such a hands-on way,” said Commissioner Parks. “Opportunities like this reinforce the importance of protecting our natural resources for future generations.”

The Longleaf to Lighthouse expedition is being filmed and photographed to document and create a short film. The film will be available to view by the end of Fall 2026. You can follow along on Instagram and Facebook: @floridawildlifecorridor with #longleaftolighthouse

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Kids Look for Easter Eggs from the Sky

Michelle Delaney — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 16:05:07 +0000

By Ted Luebbers

On April 4, 2026, young people got a chance to take their first airplane ride in a small general aviation aircraft at the Leesburg International Airport in Leesburg, Florida.

The flying weather was ideal, as there were blue skies, little wind and a comfortable temperature. Just what the Florida Camber of Commerce would advertise.

This was a Young Eagles Rally where young people get to fly for free in a small, single engine aircraft hosted by the Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 534.

These flights are piloted by experienced EAA pilots who volunteer their time, private planes, and the cost of fuel so young people get to experience the wonder and freedom of flight. This experience is open to kids eight to seventeen years of age with permission provided by a parent or guardian.

Flights last 15 to 20 minutes and if the child lives nearby, they may get to see their neighborhood from the air.

They may get a chance to be invited to fly the plane to get the feel of it. This is done under the watchful eye of the EAA pilot.

The motivation for Young Eagle flights on the part of EAA is to give a young person the experience of flying in a small plane with the hope they will one day get their own private pilots license. This experience also might spark an interest in some other form of aerospace for future vocation.

Becoming a Young Eagle has many additional perks beyond the flight.

To name a few, each child will receive a commemorative certificate of their flight and an official log book, signed by their EAA pilot.

Young Eagle Mark Herzog and Chapter 534 pilot and VP John Weber get ready to head for the wild blue yonder for a Young Eagle flight.

They will get free access to Sporty’s online Learn to Fly course. This course will help them dig deeper into the information they need to know to acquire a private pilot license. The course will help them to pass the Federal Aviation Administration written exam.

It’s interesting to note the smiles of the kids as they deplane. It’s obvious they enjoyed their flight.

Many of them will come back again and learn more about aviation with each visit.

If your child has ever expressed an interest in aviation, help them scratch that itch by getting them enrolled in a Young Eagles program like the one at EAA Chapter 534 in Leesburg, Florida, or at a local airport near you.

On this day 24 young people took to the sky with nine experienced EAA pilots. These pilots provided 8 fixed wing, single engine aircraft and one helicopter.

Twelve additional EAA members turned out to help this event be a success by doing the necessary paperwork, escorting kids and parents safely back and forth to the ramp.

The next Young Eagle rally at EAA Chapter 534 will be May 2, 2026, weather permitting.

If you would like more information about the Young Eagles program, or EAA Chapter 534 go to the following websites,www.eaa.org or www.eaachapter534.org.

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Clermont Mayor Visits the Clermont Woman’s Club

Michelle Delaney — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 01:25:45 +0000

by Pam Schmitz, Clermont Woman’s Club

Clermont Mayor Tim Murry spoke to the members of the Clermont Woman’s Club at their April meeting. It was an informal setting and the Mayor fielded multiple questions from the members. He spoke about the growth of Clermont and since he is a native of Clermont, he talked about the changes that he has seen over the years. The women thanked him for taking time out of his busy schedule to visit the club.

The Clermont Woman’s Club was chartered in 1927. It is a non-profit organization that meets on the first Tuesday of each month (September through May) at 12:30PM at their clubhouse, 655 W. Broome Street, Clermont. For information see http://www.clermontwomansclub.org.

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Mascotte Student-Athlete Anthony Brooks Shines as Lake County’s Top Middle School Sprinter

Michelle Delaney — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 01:15:05 +0000

Councilwoman Robin Hughes Spotlights Rising Student-Athlete Anthony Brooks

In every community, there are young people whose discipline, talent, and determination remind us exactly why investing in our youth matters. Today, I am proud to highlight one of our own rising student-athletes, Anthony Brooks, who is quickly making a name for himself on the track.

Anthony, a student-athlete at Cecil E. Gray Middle School, has emerged as one of Lake County’s standout middle school sprinters. Entering the county meet as the top-seeded runner in the 100-meter dash, Anthony is not only representing his school with excellence, but he is also carrying the pride of his family and community with every stride.

Beyond the track, Anthony is also a scholar excelling in the Cambridge program, demonstrating that his commitment to excellence extends far beyond athletics. His academic discipline mirrors the same focus, preparation, and determination he brings to every race, making him a powerful example of what it means to lead with both talent and intellect.

Behind Anthony’s success is a strong support system, led by his mother, Asia Williamson, a proud Mascotte resident who continues to pour into her son’s growth, discipline, and success. Her commitment, encouragement, and presence are helping shape a young man who is already showing what focus and hard work can produce.

As the Councilwoman for Mascotte, I am especially proud to recognize one of our own youth residents, Anthony Brooks, for the remarkable standard he is setting through both athletic excellence and academic achievement. His success on the track and in the classroom is a powerful reminder to other young people that with discipline, focus, and determination, greatness can begin right here at home and reach far beyond our community.

As a longtime advocate for youth development, moments like this are important to celebrate. Anthony’s success is bigger than a race time. It represents what can happen when talent meets opportunity, when parents stay engaged, and when young people commit themselves to excellence.

This is exactly the kind of story I believe deserves to be highlighted, young people rising, families supporting, and the next generation showing what excellence looks like.

We are cheering Anthony on as he continues his season, and I look forward to seeing how far his talent and discipline take him.

As the Councilwoman for Mascotte, I am honored to shine a light on Anthony’s bright future and the standard of excellence our youth can represent.

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String-A-Palooza Showcases The Power Of Young Musicians At Montverde Academy

Michelle Delaney — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 00:08:21 +0000

Submitted by Montverde Academy

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.

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Welcome Frank Calascione To The City of Groveland Team

Michelle Delaney — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 22:43:41 +0000

Frank Calascione was recently named Groveland’s new Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) and Economic Development Manager.

Frank worked with the City of Inverness and Citrus County, where he focused on community development, economic growth and local business support. His background and leadership will play an important role, strengthening Groveland’s downtown and creating opportunities for businesses to succeed.

Frank, Welcome to the Groveland Community.

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The Neighborhood Center of South Lake Heartbeat of Hope Golf Tournament (April 17)

Michelle Delaney — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 15:22:33 +0000

Beth Ann Carr, The Neighborhood Center of South Lake

The Neighborhood Center of South Lake (TNC) is pleased to announce our 9th Annual Heartbeat of Hope Golf Tournament, to take place on Friday, April 17, 2026 at the Legends Golf & country Club in Clermont.

Founded by our Title Sponsor Carroll L and Barabar B Fulmer Family Foundation, The Heartbeat of Hope Golf Tournament is one of our signature events that supports the South Lake communities through the Neighborhood Center’s mission:

“Enriching neighbors’ lives and enhancing dignity by providing food security and abundant resources.”

Player spots and sponsorships are still available; Join us for a day of golf, fun and good work.

To register for the tournament please visit the website at https://theheartbeatofhopegolftournament.com/

Questions about the center or tournament? Contact Beth Carr at cao@tncsl.org or 352.429.1200 ext 107

BECAUSE NO ONE SHOULD GO HUNGRY

About the Neighborhood Center of South Lake – Founded in 1972, the Neighborhood Center of South Lake has been serving residents in our community for more than 50 years. Ensuring the dignity of every client, we acknowledge that asking for help is an act of courage and should always be respected. We focus on empowering our neighbors with the tools and resources to help them achieve long-term and sustainable independence.

The Neighborhood Center of South Lake is designated as a Nutritious Food Pantry, which means our clients receive healthy (minimally processed) groceries for their families, and assistance in accessing government and other necessary resources, helping them break the cycle and improve their quality of life.

For more information on the Neighborhood Center of South Lake or Donate please go to www.tncsl.org

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The Yard of the Month Chosen By The Clermont Garden Club For April 2026

Michelle Delaney — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 14:47:13 +0000

by Grace Rabano, Clermont Garden Club

With the recent winter freezes, everyone’s garden is probably struggling now to get back to its former glory. The Clermont Garden Club’s clubhouse grounds at 849 West Ave., Clermont is no exception. While we wait for many plants to return (like the hibiscus, jatropha, crotons), we marvel at the resilience of other plants that have bounced back. We are also indebted to the forethought of wise, past club groundskeepers who knew that plant diversification is the key to having a healthy garden at various times throughout the year. For this reason, we have chosen the grounds of the Clermont Garden Club as the Yard of the Month for April 2026.

The front walk of the property at 849 West Ave., Clermont is shaded by a beautiful oak tree. The tree’s sturdy branch is adorned by a large Staghorn fern (Platycerium), which is a unique epiphytic plant known for its antler-like fronds. Rob Farmer, club member Grounds Lead, is credited with wrapping the Staghorn fern during the latest freezing temps and adequately protecting this precious plant. The rest of the garden is sprinkled with various colors from the blue cluster flowers of the Plumbago auriculata, yellow flowers of the African iris (Dietes bicolor), pale purple of flowering plants in the mint family, and the striking pinks and reds of many bromeliads throughout the garden (such as Bromeliad Neoregelia and Aechmea gamosepala, also known as the matchstick bromeliad). The most striking color this time of the year, however, goes to the amaryllis or Barbados lily (Hippeastrum vittatum) which line the north side of the clubhouse leading into the back yard and gazebo. These gorgeous amaryllis plants have trumpet-like blooms of red-orange petals with white center stripes…giving them the appearance of stars.

Clermont Garden Club is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The clubhouse at 849 West Ave., Clermont is available for rental at very reasonable rates. Available for your use during your rental are the clubhouse (complete with table/chairs, kitchen and 2 restrooms), the outdoor paved patio and gazebo on the beautiful garden grounds.

If you would like to nominate your or your neighbor’s garden to be the Yard of The Month, send an email to clermontgardenclubinc@gmail.com.

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Live Well Foundation of South Lake Announces Nutrition and Healthy Eating Grant Opportunity

Michelle Delaney — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 14:10:07 +0000

By Amanda Nethero, Live Well Foundation of South Lake

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.

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