"Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful." - Albert Schweitzer 

Southern Hill Farms in Clermont, Florida, is facing a major setback after a sudden freeze wiped out much of its crop.

Owner David Hill reported that the farm, famous for its blueberries, strawberries, and sunflowers, may lose around 35% of its yearly revenue due to heavy ice damage.

Despite overnight efforts to protect the plants with irrigation, the extreme conditions led to widespread collapse, especially among the sunflowers.

The loss is both financially and emotionally taxing for the Hill family and their team, with months of hard work lost overnight.

Southern Hill Farms is urging Clermont residents to help by attending upcoming events like the Winter U-Pick and Fun Zone this February.

With local farmers facing similar challenges, community support and resilience are proving essential to keeping Central Florida’s agricultural spirit alive.

Family Florida Realty has earned its reputation as Clermont’s go-to real estate team by doing something refreshingly simple: putting people first. Rooted deeply in the rolling hills and lakefront lifestyle of South Lake County, they combine hyper-local expertise with a warm, customer-focused approach that makes every client feel like part of the family.

Whether you’re searching for the perfect home or getting ready to sell, their team delivers unmatched guidance through every step of the process. They’re experts in Clermont’s most desirable neighborhoods—from golf-course communities to lakefront enclaves—and use cutting-edge marketing, neighborhood knowledge, and skilled negotiation to secure the best possible outcomes for their clients.

At Family Florida Realty, real estate isn’t just a transaction—it’s a relationship. Their mission is to simplify the journey, protect your interests, and help you feel confident from the first showing to the final signature. For anyone buying or selling in Clermont, there’s no better partner to have by your side.

Michelle Michnoff-Glowacki has been named Groveland’s first Chief Operating Officer, marking a significant advancement in how the city manages its expanding operations.

With more than 20 years of executive experience, she will lead key departments including Finance, Budget, Utility Billing, Procurement, Human Resources, and IT.

City leaders say this position will strengthen coordination and raise operational efficiency across all departments.

Michnoff-Glowacki’s appointment comes as Groveland experiences major growth, with $25 million recently committed to infrastructure improvements, like a new fire station and upgrades for the water system.

A major partnership with Lake County will conserve at least half of local land for agriculture and nature, supporting balanced development.

Additionally, construction of Fire Station #3 and a $92 million State Road 50 realignment project underscore the city’s focus on public safety and traffic relief.

This new leadership role positions Groveland to stay effective and resident-focused during a pivotal period of change.

Set amid Clermont’s scenic hills, Rainwood by Mattamy Homes ushers in a fresh chapter for local homebuyers.

Launched with a festive event on June 21, 2025, Rainwood’s opening captured the spirit of family and neighborly connection the community promises.

Home seekers can explore five designer models showcasing fifteen versatile floorplans, from inviting townhomes starting in the upper $200,000s to roomy single-family homes from the upper $300,000s.

Rainwood highlights energy-efficient features, spacious interiors, and options for both quick move-in and custom builds, all focused on creating an inviting and connected neighborhood.

By 2029, the community will feature over 400 homes, blending nature with modern amenities like a poolside cabana, walking trails, and a vibrant park.

Ideally located near major highways, Rainwood offers easy access to downtown Clermont, local wineries, trails, and growing conveniences such as Sprouts Farmers Market and expanded healthcare services.

Visit the Clermont Historic Village for a fascinating look at the area's history and hidden gems.

Sunset Wine Tasting at Lakeridge Winery

📅 Date: Saturday, Feb 7
🕒 Time: 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards
🎟️ Admission: $20 tasting fee
📄 Details: Sample local wines paired with live acoustic music on the terrace.

Super Bowl Sunday Hike

📅 Date: Sunday, Feb 8, 2026
🕒 Time: ~8:15 AM
📍 Location: Lake Louisa State Park
🎟️ Admission: Park entry fee may apply
📄 Details: Start Super Bowl Sunday outdoors with a scenic group hike through one of the area’s most beautiful parks.