Good morning, Clermont.

Lake Square Mall added four new businesses on May 18 + the county’s largest mall shows it remains vibrant as shoppers return.

At the SLCC Breakfast Meeting, Interim President Dr. Laura Byrd of LSSC said the college is growing quickly with plans for new buildings, on-campus housing, and more programs—serving over 9,600 students and aiming to serve 10,000 next year.

Community leaders from CAALC, Comcast, and 1 Million Cups also shared plans to boost local culture and help local businesses, with 1 Million Cups launching on Wednesday, June 11—at The View on Clermont National Drive.

Central Florida school districts will end classes for summer on varying dates—Brevard, Orange, and Seminole will let out on May 28 while Flagler, Lake, Marion, and Osceola close on May 29 or 30 and Sumter on June 3.

Most students will return to school on Aug. 11 with Sumter restarting on Aug. 13.

Habitat for Humanity of Lake-Sumter announced Sunday that it is accepting applications for its Home Ownership Program—designed to build and sell affordable homes to individuals and families in Lake and Sumter counties.

Applicants must meet program guidelines including a minimum six-month residency, a target credit score of 640, verifiable income, and income at or below 80% AMI—criteria that support affordable homeownership in the area.

Nashville Writers Round with Jordan Mohr

6-9 p.m. — The View at Clermont National — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of original music featuring six talented artists in a cozy setting.

Clermont Reggae Festival

5 PM – 1 AM — 9117 Jack Underwood Rd, Clermont, FL — Details to be announced — Celebrate reggae music and culture by the lake at this festive event.

Ax-Caliber Clermont Last Fridays with Pop-Up Market

6-9 p.m. — Ax-Caliber Clermont — $50 vendor fee — Enjoy axe throwing, food trucks, and live music at this family-friendly outdoor market.

Clermont Caribbean Jerk Festival

12-10 p.m. — Waterfront Park — Fundraiser support for scholarships — Experience vibrant Caribbean culture through food and music.

Family History Research Workshop

4:30-6:30 p.m. — Cooper Memorial Library — Free entry — Discover how to trace your genealogy using online resources from the comfort of home.

Clermont Toddler Time Multi-Sport Program

9 AM - 10:50 AM — McKinney Park basketball court — $85 — A summer multi-sport program designed for toddlers aged 18 months to 5 years.