One of Florida’s Oldest Organs in Continual Use — and the Man Who Keeps It Alive

| By Kathryn Deen | Majestic. Powerful. Traditional. That’s how Hugh Dial describes one of Florida’s oldest organs in continual use. And he’s the man who keeps the 1844 Pilcher pipe organ alive at St. Matthias Episcopal Church in downtown Clermont. Perhaps you could say they complete each other. For 19 of the organ’s 175 years, the two have danced. They’ve logged about 2,000 hours … Continue reading One of Florida’s Oldest Organs in Continual Use — and the Man Who Keeps It Alive

Champion Spotlight: Olympic Gold Medalist ‘VCB’

The Clermont resident just released an inspirational book | By Kathryn Deen | There once was a girl who could outrun all the boys in her town. Now, Veronica Campbell Brown, 36, can outrun almost anyone in the world. You may have heard of “VCB.” The three-time Olympic gold medalist in track and field happens to be a proud Clermont resident. Veronica’s claims to fame … Continue reading Champion Spotlight: Olympic Gold Medalist ‘VCB’

Chef to Serve All Florida Firefighters

| By Larry Oskin | Clermont Chef Robert Scambia is on a personal mission to reward and honor Florida firefighters. Born in Manhattan and raised in Union City, NJ, Robert has a special place in his heart for 9/11 victims and survivors, as well as police officers, firefighters and first responders who helped. He lost a close friend who was a firefighter working the aftermath … Continue reading Chef to Serve All Florida Firefighters

Boston 2018: Her Grueling Journey to the Finish

Sleet wouldn’t stop her. Heather Schulz recounts her 10th Boston + 34th marathon. | By Heather Schulz | Just keep going, get to the finish, please body don’t fail me! Boston marathon is one of my all time favorites marathons! The spirit of the city, the amazing spectators, the challenging yet awesome course! I didn’t always feel that way! I ran my first Boston in … Continue reading Boston 2018: Her Grueling Journey to the Finish

Q+A with Fred Sommer, the ‘Godfather’ of Triathlons

Fred reflects on 35 years since bringing triathlons to Clermont, his recent USAT award + more | By Michelle Craske | In 1974, about 2,500 miles west in San Diego, a new sport was born. And it would eventually turn Clermont and South Lake County into a worldwide sports destination. The sport involved swimming, cycling and running. These were not triathletes. There was no such … Continue reading Q+A with Fred Sommer, the ‘Godfather’ of Triathlons