Just 12 years ago
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1/23/2008
You could get off the turnpike go west and see nothing but parcels of land and cows all the way to Clermont along Highway 50 (E. Colonial), pop. 4,500. Someone got the word out about this quaint little town and it's not like that anymore. The good ol' boy network does not seem to thrive as it used to, but this is still the South. Clermont is in the middle of the State of Florida both horizontally and vertically. Most religions have local worship, except those that are not Christian based, maybe soon a synagogue.
Clermont is about 40 minutes west of Orlando and 40 minutes South of Lady Lake. Clermont is the largest city within Lake County, over 22,000 pop. There are three major lakes, Lake Minneola, Lake Minnehaha and Lake Louisa, boating, skiing, wake boarding, an occasional dinghy. Triathlons (www.sommersports.com), rails for trails, a biking, walking and dog friendly path along the lake and through some neighborhoods. Historic downtown has a small farmers market (Sundays), City Hall, police station, library, and locally owned shops.
Yes, crime is up, but so is population. About seven elementary schools, Cypress Ridge Elem. is a lottery only school, science/math magnet (very cliquish), two middle schools and one high school. Lots and lots of family communities but no community centers (i.e. YMCA or recreational buildings). Yes, YMCA is here in a small location (baseball, football, soccer, basketball, cheerleading).
South Lake Hospital, local doctors, specialists. Can be difficult for those with seasonal allergies. This city seems to be in a valley. Trek up to Sugarloaf Mountain area (large hill) and you'll see what I mean.
Plenty to do in Clermont mostly outdoor activities, shopping centers are being built. Other nice areas, Baldwin Park, Thornton Park, Oviedo.
JT | Clermont, FL