On Friday, December 15, 2023, the local business community gathered for the December Holiday Chamber Breakfast, a joyful event that brought together 160 distinguished business leaders. The morning commenced with a delightful musical performance by Lake Minneola High School’s Sola Voce Choir, a 54-piece choir led by Mr. Ian Tapson, set the tone for a day of celebration and cheer.
A highlight of the event was the heartfelt presentation by the President & CEO of the Chamber, David Colby, who presented a special gift to Thom Kieft, the 2023 Board Chair from Lake-Sumter State College. Colby commended Kieft for his outstanding leadership throughout the year, acknowledging his pivotal role in keeping the Chamber vibrant and strong.
The breakfast featured engaging presentations from key sponsors, including Main Street Clermont and NuWave Health & Wellness, as well as contributions from the Clermont Fire Department and Orlando Health South Lake Hospital. Each presentation showcased a collaborative spirit and commitment to community growth shared by these organizations.
Adding a touch of musical magic, Pam Jones of Congressman Daniel Webster’s Office and Nate Edmund of the South Lake Chamber of Commerce delivered a remarkable performance, singing a compilation of beloved holiday songs, spreading joy and festive spirit among the attendees.
A surprise highlight of the morning was the presentation of the Ann Dupee Gem of the Hills Award to J Brian Miles of SouthLake.TV, recognizing his outstanding contributions and dedication to the community.
The Ann Dupee Gem of the Hills Award is a prestigious honor given to a distinguished member of the South Lake Community, known for their unwavering dedication to serving others. J Brian is an exceptional individual whose passion for the community is evident, despite his preference for working behind the scenes.
A proud graduate of South Lake High School, J Brian furthered his education in screenwriting at Valencia. His career journey is as intriguing as it is inspiring, beginning with a stint as a stuntman before transitioning into the world of producing movies and television shows. J Brian’s talent and drive took them to Los Angeles, where he served as an associate producer for an entertainment company, and then in product placement with iconic brands such as Dodge, Ladies Home Journal, and Gibson Guitars. Interestingly, it’s rumored that he still owns a Gibson guitar from the set of “Juno.”
J Brian’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to Tennessee, where he founded a video production company focusing on the real estate market. This venture was followed by the establishment of WTNB, a class-A low-power TV station. However, the call of his South Lake roots was strong, bringing him back to Clermont.
In Clermont, his love for television production, storytelling, and community involvement culminated in the creation of southlake.tv. Known for his presence at local events, camera in hand, he is dedicated to capturing and highlighting the vibrant activities and spirit of the South Lake community.
The festivities concluded with a lively Costume Contest, bringing laughter and cheer to the event. Clermont’s City Manager, Brian Bulthuis, claimed victory in the male category, while Cathy Bateham of Affordable Health and Supplemental Insurance Solutions triumphed in the female category.
The success of the Festive Holiday Chamber Breakfast was made possible through the generous support of sponsors:
- Main Event Sponsor: Clermont Main Street
- Co-Sponsor: NuWave Health & Wellness
- Coffee Station & Coffee Cup Sponsor: Computer Business Consultants
- Coffee Sponsor: Dunkin’
- Linen Sponsor: Hampton Inn
- Water Sponsor: Addition Financial
- Caterer: Table Top Catering
The Chamber expressed gratitude to all contributors and extended warm wishes for a Happy Holidays to its members, capping off a memorable and joyous event.
For those who may have missed the Festive Holiday Chamber Breakfast or wish to relive its magical moments, the event is available for rewatch on SouthLake.TV, our Broadcast Partner.
