By Akers Editorial
What’s Going On In and Around Lake County March 2026
Branching Out
Wolf Branch Brewing Co.’s Leesburg location has rebranded as the “Beerstro” after shifting the focus toward an eatery-style experience centered on beer. The menu incorporates house-made brews, from sauces and marinades to pickled and fermented elements, with beer featured in some dishes and sometimes paired alongside them. The brewery remains part of Wolf Branch.
707 W Main St., Leesburg / 407.276.1510 wolfbranchbrewing.com
Caps Off to Lake County!
Lake County Public Schools reached a historic milestone this year when the district’s overall high school graduation rate climbed to 94 percent, the highest in district history. District-operated schools posted an even higher 96 percent graduation rate, surpassing the statewide average of 92 percent. Every district high school now reports a graduation rate of 90 percent or higher, fulfilling a goal set by Superintendent Diane Kornegay. The gains reflect steady progress across student groups and schools, highlighted by significant increases at Eustis High School and continued districtwide focus on student support, intervention programs and graduation tracking, all helping more students cross the stage ready for what comes next.
On A High Note
Eustis High School (EHS) band director Matthew Flenner is striking all the right notes. Honored this year by the Florida Band Association, Matthew received the High School Jazz Five-Year Superior Award after EHS earned a Superior rating at the State Jazz Assessment for seven consecutive years, from 2019 to 2025. EHS was the only school in Florida to receive the distinction this year, a testament to the talent, dedication and hard work of both the director and his jazz students.
Sumter’s Quiet Past
Tema Cemetery is a small historic burial ground established in 1882 just north of Bushnell that is quietly maintained with no fence as the final resting place for generations of local families, from 19th-century settlers to mid-20th-century residents. Several marked and some unmarked graves have been documented by local volunteer genealogists. The cemetery offers a serene place for reflecting on the area’s history and the lives of those who shaped it.
US Hwy 301 & CR 532
Deli-cious!
The Grove Roadside Deli in Sumterville, owned by sixth-generation Sumter resident Michelle Williams, is a great stop for anyone traveling Hwy 301. The deli offers classic deli fare made fresh to order, including custom-built hot and cold sandwiches, wraps and paninis. The menu features the must-have chicken salad, soups, salads, chips, sides, desserts and rotating daily specials. The Grove also sells custom trucker hats and local honey.
732 Hwy 301, Sumterville / Hours: Mon–Fri 10:30am–3:30pm
Egg-cellent News
Another Broken Egg Cafe is now open in Clermont. The café known for Southern-inspired breakfast, brunch and lunch offers dine-in and online ordering, a full bar, patio dining and free Wi-Fi — plus its playful “Cocktails on Wait,” packaged cocktails perfect for to-go. Guests can expect chef-inspired dishes alongside brunch favorites, spiked cold brews, mimosas and more, all served in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
2633 S Hwy 27, Clermont | 352.227.3487
Anchored in Community
The Leesburg Boat Club, founded in 1947, brings together generations of local boaters who share a love of the Harris Chain of Lakes and life on the water. One of the area’s longest-running clubs blends recreation with community through organized boating outings, fishing events and relaxed social gatherings throughout the year. Traditions are built around fellowship, stewardship of the lakes and time well spent outdoors. Today, it remains a welcoming hub for seasoned captains, weekend cruisers and anyone drawn to Central Florida’s lake life.
31 Dozier Cir., Leesburg / 352.787.8916 / leesburgboatclub.com
Good Food Grows Here
Sprouts Farmers Market opened its first Lake County store in Clermont this month. The 30,000-plus-square-foot store in the Shoppes at Hammock Ridge brings a wide selection of fresh produce, natural and organic groceries, bulk items and specialty options including plant-based and gluten-free foods. Known for its farmers market–style feel and emphasis on fresh, better-for-you choices, Sprouts adds a new go-to spot for health-minded shoppers in the Clermont area.
3420 S U.S. Highway 27, Clermont
Going Native
Harry & the Natives began serving up food and fellowship in a laid-back lakeside setting on Lake Okahumpka in August. The restaurant has been packed for lunch and dinner ever since, earning a reputation as one of the hottest, from-scratch spots around. A full bar, friendly local staff, glowing Tiki torches and even a resident gator complete the scene.
4529 Okahumpka Run, The Villages / 352.571.4062 nativesvillages.com
A Force for Good
International Women’s Day on March 8 celebrates the collective power of women, and in Clermont, that spirit is already at work year-round. Through the Women’s Giving Alliance of South Lake, local women pool their resources, insight and leadership to improve the lives of women and children across the community. Founded in 2014 through the Community Foundation of South Lake, the Alliance uses data-informed grant-making, education and impact investing to turn individual generosity into lasting change. Guided this year by president Jennifer Ganley, the Women’s Giving Alliance reflects the core message of International Women’s Day: when women come together, entire communities rise.
