It was truly a magical morning during the August Chamber breakfast on Friday, August 18, where we welcomed 160 local business professionals. This breakfast included special performances by The Dapper Dans including a beautiful arrangement of the National Anthem.

The keynote presentation was delivered by Steven A. Miller, the Senior Manager of Corporate Social Responsibility and Disney Ambassador Program at Walt Disney World Resort. Steven talked about the amazing work Disney has been doing in the community, including the costume donations they delivered to East Ridge High School when they performed Frozen, Jr. last year. During Steven’s presentation, he announced that Walt Disney World employs a whopping 75,000 cast members and that they have donated an incredible 30.4 million dollars to nonprofit organizations throughout Florida. Steven also shared some exciting news about HBCU Week, where Walt Disney World welcomed more than 6,000 High School students, including 400 students from Lake County High Schools. At the event, they awarded nearly 11 million dollars in scholarships.

Click here to view the Walt Disney World Resort presentation.

Stephanie Walter of Stephanie Walter Promotions was recognized by The Chamber for her exceptional work with the Ann Dupee Gem of the Hills Award. The award was presented by Leesa Hodges of The Hauff Company, who is a former chair and current member of the Taste of South Lake Committee, as well as a member of the Teacher Appreciation Committee. 

The Gem of the Hills Community Service Award honors residents or organizations that contribute to the South Lake community; they lend their time, efforts, and talents outside any volunteer work done for their employer.

Stephanie is a dedicated member of the South Lake Chamber of Commerce Teacher Appreciation and Taste of South Lake Committees. She has been volunteering her time for several years to celebrate the local teachers in the Lake County Schools and promote the businesses in South Lake. This Gem of the Hill is a strong supporter of our community and provides all types of promotional items that schools use, including the shirts worn by teachers at the 33rd Annual Teacher Appreciation Breakfast recently held on Monday and Tuesday, August 7th and 8th. She is well acquainted with many of our principals and collaborates closely with them. Stephanie is known for her kind heart and passion for serving others. She is a true asset to the community and is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of those around her. Congratulations, Stephanie Walter!

This breakfast would not be possible without the support and contributions of our sponsors and partners:

• Event Partner – Walt Disney World Resort
• Co-Sponsor: Project Scholars – Pig on the Pond
• Coffee Station & Coffee Cup Sponsor: Computer Business Consultants
• Coffee Sponsor: Dunkin’
• Linen Sponsor: Holiday Inn Express
• Water Sponsor: Addition Financial
• Caterer: Walt Disney World Resort
• Broadcast Partner: SouthLake.TV

If you missed the August Chamber breakfast, you can catch the replay on www.SouthLake.TV.