The South Lake Chamber of Commerce welcomed members and guests to its June Chamber Breakfast on Friday, June 20, at the Clermont City Center. The event was emceed by 2025 Chamber Board Vice-Chair Donna Kirtland of the Live Well Foundation of South Lake.
Top-performing individuals and teams were celebrated, with awards presented in multiple wellness categories. The Live Well Team, the City of Clermont, and “Skinny as a Board” were among the standout team winners.
The Wellness Challenge, sponsored by Orlando Health/NTC, reflects the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to promoting well-being and fostering a sense of community through engaging and impactful programs.
Keynote speaker Lance Sewell, President of Orlando Health South Lake Hospital
During the breakfast, Vice-Chair Donna Kirtland introduced the morning’s main event sponsor and keynote speaker, Lance Sewell, President of Orlando Health South Lake Hospital.
In his role, Sewell leads operations across the hospital’s expansive 180-acre campus, which includes 235 inpatient beds, an ambulatory surgery center, a short-term rehabilitation facility, and the nationally recognized National Training Center. He also oversees two freestanding emergency departments that serve both the north and south ends of Clermont.
A key leader within Orlando Health since 2006, Sewell has played an instrumental role in the organization’s growth and long-term stability. Prior to being named president in 2020, he served as chief financial officer, helping to build a solid financial foundation that continues to support the hospital’s mission as a nonprofit, community-focused healthcare provider. During his remarks, Sewell shared recent highlights and updates from Orlando Health South Lake Hospital.
The event was co-sponsored by Cheryl Hernandez, owner of Home Instead in Clermont. A champion for senior care, Hernandez is dedicated to supporting families as they navigate the challenges of aging. She was honored as one of Central Florida’s 25 Women Who Mean Business, and her company has received the Best of South Lake Award for In-Home Senior Care.
Kroger Delivery also co-sponsored the breakfast. Attendees were informed of an exclusive $10 savings offer on their next Kroger Delivery order of $50 or more. For questions regarding the promotion, guests were encouraged to contact Andrea Colby at Kroger.
Elizabeth Johnson delivered a presentation on behalf of the Educational Foundation of Lake County. She highlighted the Foundation’s vital contributions to the community, including classroom grants, school supply distribution, and scholarships totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars awarded to local students each year.
The Chamber also shared exciting updates during the breakfast, including plans to host the 35th Annual Teacher Appreciation Breakfast, presented by CEMEX, Orlando Health South Lake Hospital, and AdventHealth. Businesses interested in supporting the event are encouraged to donate door prizes valued between $50 and $100. Donations should be delivered to the Chamber by Friday, July 25, or members may speak with Chamber staff for additional ways to participate.
In other news, the South Lake Chamber of Commerce announced that it will begin managing rentals for the Clermont City Center starting July 1. The facility offers versatile room layouts and is conveniently located in the heart of Downtown Clermont. For rental information or to schedule a tour, members are encouraged to contact Jennifer at the Chamber front desk.