Law Enforcement and First Responders were honored at an Appreciation Event hosted by the South Lake Republican Club on Monday, August 2, at The River Church (796 Hooks St. Clermont).
One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the first Carle L. Bishop Legacy Scholarship Award. (Bishop was unable to attend the dedication but acknowledged his appreciation).
Former Clermont Fire Chief Bishop is a fourth-generation Clermontian. His father was a firefighter and Carle followed in his footsteps. For over 49 years, Carle was a first responder and upon retirement left behind his proven commitment, compassion and dedicated service to the community. BIG BOOTS TO FILL. (see Carle Bishop’s Imprint on the community)
James Dahl is the recipient of the first Carle L. Bishop Legacy Scholarship. James graciously accepted the scholarship during the evening’s event stating, ” I know I have big shoes to fill, and I hope I can continue his legacy of exceptional service to his community in my career”.
James graduated from South Lake High School in 2021. He joined the school’s Naval JROTC program and held the rank of Cadet Chief Petty Officer, overseeing the physical training sessions for his company as well as any disciplinary issues. He also took part in the band program and was chosen to serve as the Logistics Sergeant for his senior year. He achieved the rank of eagle scout with Boy Scout Troop 784 in Clermont and is currently serving as a Junior Assistant Scoutmaster. He explains, “I want to help give back to all the young men who helped me achieve my dream”.
James describes his journey to become a first responder: “When I began my senior year of high school being a firefighter wasn’t an option that I had even considered. But thanks to the guidance of Cameron Bryan, my closest friend who now is employed by the Villages as a firefighter/ EMT, Frank Patterson, the Groveland fire inspector as well as a close friend of mine, and my mentor Mr. Peck I opened myself to the idea of attending fire school and becoming a firefighter and I can honestly say that I have never been more ready and excited to face a challenge in my life.
There have been many challenges in my life that in overcoming, have taught me valuable life lessons that I believe have prepared me for this moment and will propel me to success in my future endeavors. Growing up in a single-parent household has taught me to be persistent even in trying times and to never give up even when the task ahead seems insurmountable. I have grown up for the past decade seeing my mother at times struggle to make ends meet but would always make sure that my brothers and I had what we needed to succeed, even if that meant forgoing certain things that she needed for herself. Mom, I thank you for showing me the value of persistence and hard work and making me the best version of me possible.”
Prior to the selection of the recipient, the South Lake Republican Club presented a check for $2,500 to the Kiwanis of South Lake to help fund the newly created scholarship for Firefighter/EMT. (see funding)
Recipients of the Fire Chief Carle Bishop Legacy Scholarship and the Officer Conrad Buckley Scholarship Legacy for the Police Academy are selected and/or approved by their respective departments.
Law Enforcement and First Responders Certificates of Appreciation were presented to:
- Lake County Sheriffs Department
- Clermont Police and Fire Department
- Groveland Police and Fire Department
- Lake County Fire and Rescue
- Minneola Fire Department
- Mascotte Police and Fire Department
Local dignitaries included:
