CLERMONT

LAKE COUNTY, Fla. — The Florida Highway Patrol is asking for help finding the driver who struck a man on a bike in Clermont Friday morning and left him on the road to die. Troopers responded to U.S. Highway 27 just north of U.S. Highway 192 just before 5 a.m. for reports of a crash involving a bicyclist. Troopers say the bicyclist was thrown from the bike and the vehicle that hit him fled the scene. READ: Florida police to start ticketing drivers for loud music on July 1Troopers say tire markings on the road lead them to believe the vehicle that first hit the bicyclist was possibly a semi-truck. FHP investigators are asking anyone with information on the crash to call them at (407) 737-2213 or CRIMELINE at (800) 423-8477.

A fatal crash closes US-27 in Clermont.

As Clermont and south Lake County continue to see growth in the area, a local hospital system is growing alongside it by building a new patient tower.

Thom Battisto started his nonprofit Read to Sydney to help students read more confidently by providing them with a therapy dog.

Police said they are looking for a man diagnosed with Schizophrenia who was deemed endangered and unable to take care of himself.

LAKE COUNTY, Fla. — Four people died in a crash involving an SUV early Wednesday near Clermont, troopers said. Troopers said the driver of a Dodge Durango was heading south on County Road 561 when he ran off the road and hit a large tree. READ: Harrison Wagner, son of ‘General Hospital’ stars Jack, Kristina Wagner, dead at 27The crash happened south of Florida Boys Ranch Road shortly after midnight. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 8 Fatal Crash Lake County CR 561As of 10 a.m. Wednesday, FHP was still reporting roadblock along County Road 561 from Nellie Road to Florida Boys Ranch Road. READ: Six members of Haiti’s delegation to Special Olympics USA Games reported missing#BREAKING: 4 people dead, including a 5yo in a crash in Lake County.

Four people in an SUV — a 5-year-old girl among them — were killed in a single-vehicle crash that shut down a Lake County roadway for hours, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

A man was arrested in Clermont after police said he exposed himself to at least two 13-year-olds, then jumped in a lake and hid under a boat dock to try to evade arrest.

The Clermont Caribbean Jerk Festival is bringing 10 hours worth of fun, food and music this weekend.

Clermont Police have issued a Sliver Alert for missing man, Forrest Waldy

Police are investigating two cases of retail theft and fraud after three women were caught on surveillance video stealing wallets from multiple stores.

Crews are expected to spread the mulch and extinguish hot spots, which may affect visibility along County Road 561, State Road 19 and surrounding areas, authorities said.

CLERMONT, Fla. — A woman died after she crashed into a tree stump and a fence, the Florida Highway Patrol said. Troopers said the crash happened just after midnight on Wednesday on County Road 561 and Cypress Cove Lane. Troopers said the 32-year-old driver lost control of her SUV and ran off the roadway. READ: Girl, 15, killed in crash in OcalaShe hit a tree stump and a fence and her SUV overturned, troopers said. FHP said the woman was thrown from the SUV and died at the scene.

A fatal wreck closes CR-561 in Lake County.

A 15-year-old was arrested at a Lake County middle school after a confrontation with a resource officer and assistant principal.

Police say the suspect, Robert Tyson, 51, was seen driving on SR 50 in what was believed to be a stolen vehicle involved in a carjacking in Orange County.

Troopers said the motorcyclist was traveling eastbound on US 441 when he was rear-ended by another vehicle that failed to slow while the man was trying to make a left turn onto Holly Drive.

First responders from all over Lake County gathered again to support athletes participating in this year’s Special Olympics USA Games in June.

CLERMONT, Fla. — In Clermont, Breanna and Aaron Andrews continue to hold out hope that something can be done to bring 9-year-old Daniil home. “Every day he was here, he asked us if we would please be his family,” Breanna Andrews said. When the war first started, the Andrews shared with Channel 9 the visit Daniil had with them and their three children over the holidays. READ: ‘Political retribution’: Demings denounces decision to strip Disney’s self-governing powerThat strong bond led them to adopt Daniil and his two younger brothers. The younger boys are still in Ukraine where they had bombings earlier this week.

A man was found shot to death Tuesday on the third floor of an apartment building in Clermont, according to authorities.

Winter Garden police released the body camera video from the officers who arrested a cheerleading coach accused of molesting children.

CLERMONT, Fla. — A cheerleading coach is accused of molesting several children and teenagers, the Clermont Police Department said. D’Haiti is facing several charges of lewd and lascivious molestation on victims ages 12 to 15 years old, police said. READ: Central Florida teacher, baseball coach arrested on sex charge involving studentHe is the owner and operator of Rush All Stars in Clermont, according to investigators. Several victims have come forward dating back to 2013 until as recently as 2021. READ: Report reveals that teen who died after fall from drop tower was over weight, size limit for rideD’Haiti has coached at several other gyms, including at high schools in the Central Florida area.

Vigiland D'Haiti, 39, is co-owner and head coach of Rush Allstars.

CLERMONT, Fla. — Federal lawmakers, including both Florida senators, are pushing the secretary of state to work with Ukraine to make it easier for orphaned children to be adopted by U.S. families. WATCH: 3 Ukrainian brothers to be adopted by Central Florida family separated as attacks continueFamilies in Central Florida have been watching the war and worrying about the children they are in the process of adopting. Channel 9 spoke with a Clermont family who said at least one of the boys they are adopting is getting help in Poland. Though they made it over the border into Poland, the other two boys the couple is adopting are still somewhere in Ukraine. Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, and click here to watch the latest news on your Smart TV.

CLERMONT, Fla. — Update: According to police, the roadway is back open. — Clermont Police (@ClermontPD) March 19, 2022Previous Story: Clermont police is currently investigating a crash that involves a vehicle hitting a pedestrian. According to police, the crash happened Saturday morning at State Road 50 near the on ramp of Highway 27. Police said the pedestrian has suffered serious bodily injury. Read: WATCH: SpaceX launches Starlink satellites from Space Coast following brief weather-related delayPolice are asking citizens to avoid the area.

All traffic on eastbound lanes of State Road 50 at its onramp to U.S. Route 27 was rerouted Saturday morning after a car struck and seriously injured a pedestrian there, according to Clermont Police.

A Clermont man riding a bicycle on a trail in Lake County was struck and killed by a car.

A Clermont man was arrested Wednesday night for allegedly holding a panicked woman at gunpoint and accusing her of following his family after she briefly stopped her car in front of his house to put an address into her GPS, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

Troopers said the crash occurred on Austin Merrit Road and Dusty Lane.

Ukraine adoption The Andrews family is in the middle of adopting three brothers from Ukraine. (The Andrews Family)CLERMONT, Fla. — Three Ukrainian brothers who are set to be adopted by a Central Florida family have been separated in Ukraine as they seek safety as attacks by Russia continue. The Andrews family, of Clermont, said they learned 9-year-old Daniil has been moved west to a safer area of Ukraine, separate from his two younger brothers. Judy Winger, with CCAI Adoption Services, said they have 45 families in the process to adopt 81 children, but communication with those in Ukraine has been spotty. READ: Clermont family in process of adopting 3 brothers from Ukraine fear for boys’ safetyShe said one of their facilitators was killed in the invasion and there are concerns about food and other supplies.

CLERMONT, Fla. — For 50 years now, Special Olympics Florida has worked to change the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. He first got involved with the Special Olympics 54 years ago when he was the head football coach at the University of Louisville. “Not television or anything...nothing like it.”🚨 100 days 🚨The Opening Ceremony of the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games, presented by @JerseyMikes and hosted by @WaltDisneyWorld is almost here! Physician Paula Schad was given the Nancy Sawyer award for her years of work as Special Olympics Florida’s Clinical Director. READ: ‘They need opportunity’: Orlando man helps train Special Olympics athletes to meet their goalsThe Special Olympics USA Games, hosted in Orlando, will start on June 5.

READ: I-4 express lanes: What you need to know ahead of this weekendThe lanes will be free to use for the first few days they are open. To learn more about the lanes, click here. The world’s first Peppa Pig Theme Park is open this weekend. Photos: World’s first Peppa Pig Theme Park opens in Central FloridaThe Peppa Pig Theme Park is designed specifically with preschoolers in mind. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 29 Peppa Pig Theme Park (Peppa Pig Theme Park)To learn more about the park, click here.

Clermont police ask for help identifying individual (Clermont Police Department)CLERMONT, Fla. — Clermont police are asking for help in identifying a person who was found wandering along a busy road. Police said the person was found in the area of State Road 50 and Bowman Street at about 6:45 p.m. Thursday. READ: Orlando police search for missing girl last seen at youth centerAnyone with information about the person’s identity is asked to call the Clermont Police Department or Crimeline. The Clermont Police Department is asking for assistance in identifying this individual that was located wandering in the area of SR 50 and Bowman St. pic.twitter.com/VtJudWkzSK — Clermont Police (@ClermontPD) February 24, 2022See a map of the location below.

Spring lovers can enjoy food and flowers at the new Clermont Spring Festival this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Clermont to offer free ‘fun for everyone’ during annual Spring Forward FestivalCLERMONT, Fla. — The city of Clermont is preparing to welcome visitors to celebrate its Spring Forward Festival. Event organizers said the free “fun for everyone” festival will be highlighted by food, crafts and live entertainment. Photos: Clermont Spring Forward FestivalExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 7 Clermont to offer free ‘fun for everyone’ during annual Spring Forward FestivalFood trucks set to be at the event include Da Leo’s Hot Dogs, Rubios Baja Grille, Maya Rosa, Niccoli’s Philly’s, Pasta n’ Grille, BR Passion, Rene’s Smoothies & Chicken, One Way Coffee and Ritter’s Frozen Custard with their pontoon boat. The Clermont Garden Club and a speaker from the University of Florida are set to present on spring gardening tips. Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, and click here to watch the latest news on your Smart TV.

East Ridge Middle School in Clermont was on lockdown Thursday afternoon because someone called in a bomb threat, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.

A dump truck overturned and completely blocked a road in Clermont on Thursday, police said.

The Lake County Board of Commissioners announced they will open cold weather shelters starting Friday, Jan. 28 through Sunday, Jan. 30 as temperatures are expected to drop.

The hospital system is expanding out across Central Florida with 13 new projects.

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Troopers are investigating after a body was found in a burning car following a crash in Orange County. Just before 5:15 a.m., a crash happened on River Oaks Drive and Hiawassee Road involving a car that struck a wall. Troopers said the car was minimally damaged and the driver did not appear to be injured. READ: Clermont officials looking to shut down popular restaurant over allegations of adult entertainmentAbout 90 minutes later, a trooper arrived to the scene to find the car on fire and the person dead inside. READ: Deputies arrest teen suspect in attacks on 3 women at Clermont apartment complex in the same dayThe State Fire Marshall’s office will investigate the fire.

CLERMONT, Fla. — The city of Clermont is looking to shut down what it believes is inappropriate activity at a popular waterfront restaurant. READ: From frost to rain: What to expect tonight & tomorrowThe city has laid out what it believes are violations of their conditional use permit for events and city code. “Most of the problems have been the times when they go past the allowable time of 10 o’clock, and sometimes the noise,” Clermont City Manager Brian Bulthuis said. READ: Physicians society show support for Orange County health director following suspensionNeighbors said the restaurant has had micro wrestling events and bikini contests. The city also alleges a “girls night out” male revue show violated the conditional use permit with adult entertainment, and city codes for nudity in public places, and a prohibited act.

Lake County deputies located and arrested a man accused of raping an 18-year-old high school student at a Clermont apartment complex.

Lake County deputies are searching for the man accused of sexually assaulting a student walking home from Umatilla High School, according to the sheriff’s office.

A woman who attempted to cross a road in Clermont with a bicycle was struck by a car and killed Wednesday afternoon, according to the Clermont Police Department.

Lake County deputies are searching for a man accused of raping an 18-year-old woman at an apartment complex in Clermont.

Clermont police confirm 17-year-old Victoria Rose Gonzalez died Tuesday evening in a 2-car crash along Highway 27 near Legendary Boulevard.

CLERMONT, Fla. — Grief counselors are on site at East Ridge High school on Wednesday, after one student died and three others were seriously injured in a crash Tuesday evening. Officers said one teenager died and three others were taken to local hospitals with serious injuries. READ: Man breaks into plane’s cockpit, causes damage during boardingCounselors and a therapy dog from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office are available to East Ridge High students in need. The school district released a statement on social media stating that it is a sad day in Lake County Schools. READ: Woman dies after being struck by car on I-4It's a sad day in Lake County Schools.

A high school student is dead and five other people are badly hurt after a crash in Clermont Tuesday evening, according to police.

New lightning data released show Florida and Texas leading the nation in lightning statistics. Florida still reigns the leader in the most lightning density per square mile and had the most fatalities in 2021.

A Walmart in Clermont will temporarily close Sunday as the store is cleaned and sanitized in response to rising COVID-19 case numbers in Florida, the company said.

Physicians Stat Lab A medical testing lab in Clermont is now helping people answer that question with a new test they say provides a much deeper dive than a standard antibody test. (WFTV.com News Staff)CLERMONT, Fla. — At COVID testing sites across Central Florida, long lines have left many people seeking free COVID testing frustrated. Many people do not realize, however, that COVID tests are covered by insurance, and that can be the difference between waiting hours or minutes. Nathan Hawkins of Physicians Stat Lab in Clermont said many private labs like his have been doing COVID testing during the pandemic. If you don’t, the government will subsidize us to be able to run your COVID test,” he said.

A Tallahassee man was arrested and charged with a felony on Tuesday after multiple law enforcement agencies said they investigated allegations that he had engaged in sexual contact with a minor.

For the last five years, Dr. Weinbaum has sent out a call for anyone in need of hearing aids to send in an essay. One deserving contestant is selected to win a free device worth thousands of dollars.

A student and driver were injured in a three-vehicle crash in Lake County, officials say.

Cheryl Hall, 65, pleaded no contest to 10 counts of voter fraud charges.

A wrong-way driver was killed and two other people were injured in a crash on U.S. Highway 27 in Lake County on Monday night, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

Physicians Stat Lab A medical testing lab in Clermont is now helping people answer that question with a new test they say provides a much deeper dive than a standard antibody test. (WFTV.com News Staff)CLERMONT, Fla. — With the new omicron variant now spreading across the U.S. many people may be wondering how much protection they actually have from COVID-19. A medical testing lab in Clermont is now helping people answer that question with a new test they say provides a much deeper dive than a standard antibody test. It involves a blood test. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 11 Omicron COVID-19 variant On Nov. 26, the World Health Organization classified a new variant, B.1.1.529, as a “variant of concern” and named it omicron.

AdventHealth opens Clermont ER to expand healthcare access to Lake County.

For five years, essay contest winners have been sharing their stories about hearing loss with Dr. Kristen Weinbaum, of Precision Hearing in Clermont.

Each year, over 5,000 officers carry the torch on a 1,500-mile relay run throughout 67 counties in Florida. On Tuesday, it was Lake County’s turn.

A man riding a motorcycle without its headlights on was killed in a crash in Clermont before sunrise Wednesday morning, Clermont police said.

In addition to barrel taxes, Kentucky distillers are set to pay $300 million in state and local taxes and $1.8 billion in federal excise taxes on alcohol.

Representative Anthony Sabatini filed legislation on Wednesday that could prosecute doctors who perform gender-affirming surgeries on transgender children.

With a surge in population happening in and around Clermont, a new expansion is coming to meet the area's healthcare needs.

A Clermont man is locked up in Hernando County after troopers said he was intoxicated behind the wheel during a deadly crash.

One year after a Clermont woman was arrested in connection with her husband's death, the victim's sister said they are still seeking justice.

CLERMONT, FLA. — A Clermont mother and daughter are reunited after nearly 14 years apart. “She probably never thought she’d see her daughter again,” McMaster said. READ: Case closed: Clermont woman reunited with abducted daughter after 14 yearsAlmost 14 years passed. “At the beginning of this month, the daughter reached out to her mother via social media,” McMaster said. READ: 2 teens killed, 2 others seriously injured in Volusia County crash“Many years later, she has that opportunity to be back with her daughter,” McMaster said.

CLERMONT, Fla. — A Clermont woman has been reunited with her daughter, who was abducted from their home nearly 15 years ago. Angelica Vences-Salgado called Clermont police on Sept. 2 to report that she’d been contacted through social media by a woman who claimed to be her abducted daughter, Jacqueline Hernandez. The mysterious caller said she was in Mexico and wanted to meet Angelica at a point of entry on the border with Texas. A week later, Angelica and the woman claiming to be the kidnapped Jacqueline Hernandez were both intercepted at the U.S. point of entry in Laredo, TX. “This is a prime example of what can be accomplished when multiple law enforcement agencies and their respective communities work together and maintain open lines of communication,” Clermont Police Chief Charles Broadway said.

A 19-year-old girl abducted from Clermont in 2007 reunited with her mother last week in Texas at the U.S.–Mexico border after reaching out to her on social media, the police department said Monday Angelica Vences-Salgado told Clermont police that she received a message on Sept. 2 from someone claiming to be her missing daughter Jacqueline Hernandez, according to agency spokesperson Sgt. Erin ...

A Clermont girl who was abducted at the age of six was reunited with her mother 14 years later, according to the police department.

Officials say a former police officer has been arrested on felony charges, accused of stealing nearly $50,000 from a police union while he was its president.

They told us months after we purchased the tickets that that route was going to be delayed,” Laurel Garcia said. Norwegian Air gave the couple $3,000 in travel vouchers for the trip to England. “Then they said we’re going to give you credits for just flights within Europe to Europe, which at that point we’re like, ‘Well, that doesn’t help. We live in the United States.’” Laurel Garcia said. Give me my money back,” Laurel Garcia said.

CLERMONT, Fla. — State Road 50 is closed in both directions due to police activity in the area. Clermont police said the road is closed between Citrus Tower Boulevard and Hancock Road. READ: Johnson & Johnson and Guillain-Barre warning: What you need to knowOfficials said Clermont police, Lake County Sheriff’s Office and Groveland police are all responding to the area. Stay tuned to Channel 9 Eyewitness News for updates. READ: Orlando police make arrest in 2 sexual battery cold cases involving man known as ‘Woodline rapist’

Clermont, Fla — Tropical Storm Elsa dumped rain and at times, gusty winds, as it rolled through Clermont overnight and into the morning. READ: Elsa live updates: Storm is making landfall in Taylor County, along Florida’s northern Gulf CoastWe found Clermont resident, Larry Lontz, taking a morning walk around Lake Minneola and checking out his neighborhood for any damage. Neighborhood looks good,” Lontz shared his assessment with us, from his venture. He says he wasn’t worried about the storm but says it was a relief to wake up this morning to no damage. The Lake County Emergency Operations center tells WFTV there were no reports of damage or flooding in the rest of the county.

CLERMONT, Fla. — Clermont Police are investigating a deadly shooting that happened Saturday night. Police said the shooting occurred around 10 p.m. at the Circle K at County Road 455 and State Road 50. READ: Elsa continues to track towards Cuba but interaction with land could weaken the storm later todayPolice said that when they arrived on scene, all parties involved in the incident were still there. READ: Central Florida task force receives hero’s welcome returning from Surfside condo collapseThe parties involved did not know each other. Police continue to investigate whether this was a criminal situation or an accidental shooting.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Scattered storms have been firing off across Central Florida over the last couple hours. pic.twitter.com/LWMnne6BeK — George Waldenberger (@GWaldenWFTV) May 30, 2021These storms should build a little more until 8 p.m., then taper off. READ: 5 killed, 5 injured in South Florida when car flips and lands on top of MercedesMonday afternoon, temperatures will warm back into the upper 80s, with scattered storms developing for some neighborhoods. Heads up to our friends/family on the east side of Tampa:A severe storm moving to the southeast will bring a threat for 60mph wind gusts and 1" hail. Visit our hurricane section: EYE ON THE TROPICSVisite la sección en español: Temporada de huracanesFollow our Severe Weather team on Twitter for live updates:

ORLANDO, Fla. — It was a busy Sunday at Orlando International Airport (MCO). READ: Clermont police search for ‘armed and dangerous’ woman after attempted murderThis same day last year, just 8,465 people flew out of MCO. READ: 5 killed, 5 injured in South Florida when car flips and lands on top of MercedesThe airport is projecting pre-pandemic travel numbers on Memorial Day. @WFTV pic.twitter.com/6loWyzay8x — Ashley Edlund (@AshleyEdlund) May 30, 2021Officials believe Monday will be the busiest travel day of the holiday weekend, with many people returning home. Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, and click here to watch the latest news on your Smart TV.

Clermont police search for ‘armed and dangerous’ woman after attempted murderLAKE COUNTY, Fla. — Clermont police are searching for a woman they consider “armed and dangerous” after an attempted murder on Saturday. Officers said Amber Smith, 35, is being called a person of interest after a man was shot at around 4 p.m. on East Minnehaha Avenue. Read: 2 dead, at least 20 wounded in shooting outside Miami banquet hallClermont police were called to a home for reports of a shooting. Investigators found that a man had been shot and was taken to a hospital. Watch: Rescue units continue to search for missing paddle boarder, deputies sayAnyone who sees Smith is asked to call 911 and not to approach her.

click to enlarge Photo via Chris NikicSpecial Olympian Chris Nikic will be on hand for the "Swim For Inclusion" fundraiser at Clermont's National Training Center on Saturday.Nikic wowed last year when he became the first person with Down syndrome to complete and Ironman triathalon. For the uninitiated or otherwise sedentary, a full run-through of the Ironman includes a 2.4 mile-long swim and 112-mile bike race, capped off with a full marathon. All three events have to be completed in under 17 hours to count as a finish. The athlete will take part in a fundraising rally, where individuals and teams will attempt to swim 100 yards, 100 times over. The event, taking place on Saturday, March 20 at 9 a.m. is all a way to raise funds for Florida's Special Olympics team.

Ulrich thanked Zazula for "supporting us, for encouraging us, for advising us, for sheltering us, for feeding us, and most importantly for cheering us on and along with your husband Jonny, believing in the possibilities of how a gang of misfits and outsiders like ourselves could connect with a larger and likeminded audience. "Anthrax collectively hailed her on Facebook as "a true pioneer along with Jonny Z" on Facebook. "Those two were responsible for changing all our lives," read the band's statement. "Hard to put into words what a world this might be without their belief and dedication to metal and all of us. "If you're interested in more info on Marsha's life, her husband Jon's 2019 autobiography Heavy Tales fills in the gaps on the couple's unlikely and all-star lives in metal.

CLERMONT On Friday, East Ridge High School senior Maycee Lowe was the recipient of the first-ever Officer Conrad Buckley Scholarship to Lake Technical Colleges Florida Law Enforcement Officer Program. At the same time, that scholarship will honor the legacy left by Clermont Police Officer Conrad Buckley before his untimely death from COVID-19 complications last month. The scholarship was awarded to her through a partnership between the Clermont PD and the Kiwanis Club of South Lake. Also at the cermeony, Clermont Police Chief Chuck Broadway spoke about what a great man and good cop Buckley was. It gives you an opportunity to follow in Officer Buckleys footsteps if you would; in his image, Gail Ash said.

Last fall, council members approved a six-month moratorium on developer applications for multifamily housing projects within city limits. The focus is ensuring that each apartment building in Clermont from here on out includes a specific percentage of units with workforce housing price points. Additionally, the only dedicated workforce housing apartment complex in town has about 1,000 people on its waitlist. We recommend that you add this to your arsenal, or quiver of tools, to encourage and increase the supply of workforce housing and affordable housing inside the city, Levey said. At that time the moratorium could be lifted, though city officials said no multifamily housing projects are being affected because none are in the pipeline.

The DeMarsh family, who own Epic Theatres of Florida, are now offering drive-in movies nightly for the community at two locations, including Clermont. CLERMONT Movies have been part of the DeMarsh family for decades, passed down through four generations. The pair opened it after hearing that, after World War II, people were plowing down their corn fields and making more money showing movies. We are excited to be able to offer drive-in movies and think it is something they will really enjoy, said Weegee DeMarsh. We hope you come join us for an evening under the stars from the safety of your car, Epic Theatres said on Facebook.

click to enlarge Photo via the Great Greek Mediterranean Grill/Twitterclick to enlarge Image courtesy the Great Greek Mediterranean Grillclick to enlarge Photo via the Great Greek Mediterranean Grill/TwitterThe Great Greek Mediterranean Grill in Winter Garden is giving away a free gyro and small salad to medical workers, first responders and anyone out of work or furloughed as long as you are a resident of Clermont or Winter Garden.The offer is for two hours on Monday, April 27, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Winter Garden location in the Hamlin Town Center, at 16045 New Independence Pkwy. They recommend calling ahead so a staff member can deliver your meal curbside: 407-794-1700.First responders and medical staff just have to show their ID and license. Those out of work are on the honor system, but are still asked to show ID to verify they live in Clermont or Winter Garden.The Great Greek gyro comes with beef and lamb, or grilled chicken, and lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, tzatziki sauce and feta cheese.A restaurant can't just give away free food to anyone and everyone and not expect to go broke, so there's no shade to the Great Greek for limiting their offer to Clermont and Winter Garden residents only. After all, by including "anyone out of work or furloughed due to the COVID-19 crisis" in the food giveaway, they've already upped the giveaway game.The Great Greek is a small chain of 11 restaurants, three of which are locally owned in Florida. The other locations are in Palm Beach Gardens and Port St Lucie, meaning Orlando residents may not have run across the place yet, but it's recommended for fans of Olea Mediterranean Grill who are in western Orange and Lake County.

Well have a plan that we can announce in two weeks, said Moonlight President Trista Fouts. Were thinking about only selling half the seats and other protocols we will need.Currently, the only scheduled performance is the Moonlight production of Nunsense a Musical Comedy with four performances June 5-7 at the Clermont Performing Arts Center. Also, waiting in the wings, are Tuck Everlasting and two youth productions to be scheduled for the summer. Fouts said while the theater is closed, work goes on for the Art Walk project in the area. Evil and the Basket of Kittens, Oct. 16 to Nov. 1, and Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And The Some), Dec. 4-20.

Area students excel in higher educationProvost's ListTeresa Blaes, Ocala, Troy UniversityHonor Society InitiatesMaricruz Andrews of Summerfield was initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi at Florida International University. Shady Alshorman of Clermont was initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi at Fordham University. Charles Gick of Clermont was initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi at The University of Tampa. This scholarship is granted annually in memory of the Catons, who were both lifelong educators in Marion County. Dennis took part in the "We the People" competition, which the Ocala chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution helped judge.

Clermont police and firefighters are partnering with Sky Zone Trampoline Park to host the 6th annual Lights and Ladders Community Event from 5 to 9 p.m. on Friday at Sky Zone, located at 2510 Highway 27 in Clermont. CLERMONT Kids are invited to have fun with their local heroes for a good cause -- the Wounded Officers initiative. The Clermont Police and Fire Departments are partnering with Sky Zone Trampoline Park to host the 6th annual Lights and Ladders Community Event from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday at Sky Zone, located at 2510 Highway 27 in Clermont. The community event includes free 30-minute jump sessions throughout the night that Sky Zone will be hosting for children age 5-15. That includes regular jumping and dodgeball, and of course the kids get to jump and play dodgeball with the police officers during this time, Sky Zone General Manager Corey Russell said in a statement.

A man on a float throws beads to the crowd at the Leesburg Mardi Gras parade in 2018 in downtown Leesburg. [File photo]Leesburg Mardi Gras will see its finale this weekend with the highly anticipated crowning of King Rex and Queen Divine, followed by a party in the streets festival for the whole family. Mardi Gras Crowning BallSee the 2020 King Rex and Queen Divine crowned at the Leesburg Mardi Gras Crowning Ball Friday at 7 p.m. at the Venetian Center in Leesburg. Mardi Gras Party in the StreetThe Leesburg Mardi Gras has an entire day lined up for their annual Party in the Street in downtown Leesburg. The main Mardi Gras parade begins at 7 p.m. where the King and Queen along with other contestants will showcase their floats.

The Citrus Tower in Clermont is bringing back its beloved and missed light show now dubbed The Chick-fil-A Christmas Spectacular at the Citrus Tower, this year and light up is scheduled for November 27 at 7 p.m.CLERMONT Christmas in Clermont will be a little brighter. The Citrus Tower announced that its light show complete with more than 50,000 lights synchronized to music, snowfall and more will return this winter after a two-year hiatus. On Monday, Scott Homan, who operates the tower with his wife, Heather Homan, said the show will be bigger and better. "Real Life is thrilled to be able to support the Citrus Tower, Real Lifes Outreach Pastor Mike Shelly said. It will also be called The Chick-fil-A Christmas Spectacular at the Citrus Tower, because of the restaurant chains continued involvement and support of the towers efforts.

The Citrus Tower in Clermont is bringing back its beloved and missed light show now dubbed "The Chick-fil-A Christmas Spectacular at the Citrus Tower," this year and light up is scheduled for November 27 at 7 p.m.CLERMONT Christmas in Clermont will be a little brighter. The Citrus Tower announced that its light show complete with more than 50,000 lights synchronized to music, snowfall and more will return this winter after a two-year hiatus. "Real Life is thrilled to be able to support the Citrus Tower," Real Lifes Outreach Pastor Mike Shelly said. With the community outpouring and some shuffling of the Citrus Towers budget, Scott Homan on Monday said the show will include snow and a few extra surprises. It will also be called "The Chick-fil-A Christmas Spectacular at the Citrus Tower," because of the restaurant chains continued involvement and support of the towers efforts.

The Luckys Market store in Clermont announced its doors would permanently close on Friday, about five days earlier than anticipated. CLERMONT The doors to the Luckys Market in Clermont will be permanently closed as of Friday at 6 p.m., five days earlier than anticipated. A Facebook Post on the Luckys Market Clermont page, posted at 9 a.m. Friday, announced the change. "We are sad to announce that we will be closing our doors permanently at the end of the day today," said the Friday morning post. The majority of comments on the Clermont stores Facebook page were from customers expressing sadness of losing Luckys.

The Luckys Market store in Clermont announced its doors would permanently close on Friday, about five days earlier than anticipated. CLERMONT The doors to the Luckys Market in Clermont will be permanently closed as of Friday at 6 p.m., five days earlier than anticipated. A Facebook Post on the Luckys Market Clermont page, posted at 9 a.m. Friday, announced the change. We are sad to announce that we will be closing our doors permanently at the end of the day today, said the Friday morning post. The majority of comments on the Clermont stores Facebook page were from customers expressing sadness of losing Luckys.

While many people expressed sadness after learning Luckys Market will be closing its doors in Clermont next month, a more recent announcement that Publix may be taking over its lease has made the news more palatable. CLERMONT Publix has confirmed its plan to acquire the Luckys Market location in Clermont. I can confirm that we are under contract to purchase five Lucky's leases with locations in Clermont, Naples, Neptune Beach, Orlando and Ormond Beach, Publix spokeswoman Maria Brous wrote in an email. On Tuesday, Dave Bruno, the store director of the Luckys in Clermont, said he has heard about the possible buyout. Licardi said Publix, Winn Dixie and Fresh Market representatives have been visiting the store regularly to interview and hire Luckys associates still in need of jobs.

MONTVERDE A Montverde Academy senior was awarded the Cameron Impact Scholarship on Tuesday, a merit-based full-tuition scholarship given to students deemed to have made an impact in their community and beyond. The Cameron Impact Scholarship suggests that shes on track. Smith will graduate from Montverde Academy in May and will continue to study filmmaking and screenwriting in college. Molly is an exceptional student who continues to achieve every goal she sets for herself, Montverde Academy Headmaster Kasey Kesselring said. The entire Montverde Academy congratulates Molly on her achievement, and we look forward to seeing what the future holds for this gifted artist and student.

CLERMONT Luckys Market announced on Tuesday it is closing the majority of its 39 stores. That includes the Clermont store, where all 87 of its employees are being laid off. On Wednesday, Kyle Hendry, an assistant store director at the Clermont store, said no one at the store knew of the closing before the Tuesday meeting. Next month would have been the Clermont stores two-year anniversary, he added. Similarly, CZ Mathews, who has been shopping at the Clermont Luckys since the day it opened, said she and her family enjoy the management, the food selection and the customer service.

YOUR FORECAST: Prepare for a chillier weekend. FREE TREES: The cities of Tavares and Clermont are giving away free trees Saturday. Tavares hosts its Arbor Day Celebration from 10 a.m to 3 p.m. in Wooten Park. And Clermont starts its tree giveaway at 10 a.m. at Lake Hiawatha Preserves east pavilion, 420 Lake Minneola Shores. BILOXI BLUES: The Sonnentag Theatre at the IceHouse in Mount Dora presents the Neil Simon comedy Biloxi Blues opening Friday and playing until Feb. 9.

YOUR FORECAST: Expect a partly cloudy weekend with highs in the low- to mid- 80s and lows in the high 60s. For more information, visit melonpatchplayers.org. MEGA FOOD TRUCK RALLY: The Clermont Downtown Partnership is hosting the Mega Food Truck Rally on Saturday. More than 20 food trucks will be in downtown Clermont from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. For more information, visit clermontdowntownpartnership.com.

There wont be any bahumbugs in Lake County this weekend with all the merry cheer being spread around. Heres whats on tap this weekend:Community Christmas FestivalThe Eustis Neighborhood Resource Center is hosting the fourth annual Community Christmas Festival on Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. at Palmetto Plaza Park, 1128 East Clifford Avenue in Eustis. Everyone is welcome to attend this free event to enjoy food, live music, giveaways and more. Details: facebook.com/FirstBaptistChurchOfLadyLake/Community Christmas PartyThe Mount Dora Police Department will host its annual Northeast Community Christmas Party Saturday morning from 10 a.m. to noon at the Martin Luther King Center, 803 Florida Avenue in Mount Dora. This free event offers a place where kids can join police officers and community leaders for a holiday party featuring games, food and fun.