The South Lake Chamber of Commerce honored local heroes at its 4th Annual First Responders Breakfast on Friday, September 19, at the Clermont Arts and Recreation Center. The event brought together business leaders, community members, and families to express their deepest gratitude to the men and women who risk their lives each day to keep the South Lake community safe.
“Their dedication and hard work are truly remarkable, and we are incredibly thankful for all that they do here in South Lake,” said South Lake Chamber of Commerce President and CEO David Colby.
Honoring Public Service Award Recipients
Each department chief had the opportunity to recognize one of their outstanding team members for exemplary service:
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Groveland Police Department – Chief Shawn Ramsey recognized Hunter Stellinga.
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Howey-in-the-Hills Police Department – Chief Rick Thomas recognized Lt. Steve Valente.
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Mascotte Police Department – Chief Eric Pedersen recognized Officer Kevin Jensen.
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Groveland Fire Department – Chief Carroll recognized Lt. Michael Ridge and Firefighter Dillon Chapman.
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Lake County Sheriff’s Office – Todd English recognized Detective Chad Harmon.
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Clermont Police Department – Chief Charles Graczyk recognized Jaiden Raghunandan.
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Lake County Office of Fire & Rescue – Chief David Kilbury recognized Battalion Chief Jason White.
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Clermont Fire Department – Chief Ezell honored Lt. Luke Brear.
In tribute to their service, each honoree received a commemorative challenge coin from the Chamber and a St. Michael coin donated by Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church.
Community Sponsors Step Forward
The breakfast was made possible through the generous support of community sponsors:
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Computer Business Consultants – Clinton Pownall, president and CEO of Computer Business Consultants presented the First Responders Recognition Awards and shared a video highlighting his company’s professional IT services, which include designing, building, and monitoring custom IT and security solutions.
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Frankie Valente Scholarship Fund, Inc. – Founder Tony Valente spoke about the
organization established in memory of his son, EMT Frankie Valente, whose passion for helping others continues to inspire through scholarships and outreach. -
Hotworx – Kim Brewster presented a gift certificate to one lucky first responder and extended a special wellness offer to all First Responders in attendance.
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ASH Travel, owner Gerry Ash announced special cruise rates for the upcoming Chamber Ambassadors 3-night cruise scheduled for April 26, 2026.
As the event concluded, Chamber President David Colby reminded attendees about the 8th Annual Sips & Salsa Festival, taking place Saturday, September 20, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Clermont’s Waterfront Park.
The First Responders Breakfast continues to grow each year as a heartfelt reminder that South Lake stands united in honoring the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of those who protect and serve the community.
