Members of the Caribbean American Association of Lake County invite everyone to their annual Jerk Festival on May 4.

The South Lake Chamber of Commerce (SLCC) holds a monthly breakfast on the 3rd Friday of each month at 7:15 am. It is normally held at the City Center in Downtown Clermont but locations vary. Breakfasts are sponsored by business(s) and organization(s). Though the programs vary throughout the year, each one is informative and entertaining.

SLCC President Dave Colby and Board Chair Kalena Meyers welcome guests and introduce sponsors.


East Ridge High School Student Najee Rodriguez and Community Foundation of South Lake Director Kathy Smith

This month the Foundations for Education program in partnership with the South Lake Chamber awarded the third of five deserving high school students with a $1,000 scholarship selected each school year. Najee Rodriguez, a student at East Ridge High School, was presented with The Outstanding Student Award. Read more by clicking Najee Rodriguez


SLCC Board Chair Kalena Meyers, Feature Speaker Damu Cherry-Mitchell, SLCC President David Colby

Damu Cherry-Mitchell, Star Athletics, LLC was the featured speaker at this month’s SLCC Breakfast

Damu began her journey to become an Olympian after college when she moved to Gainesville to train with other Olympians. In 2004 the training group moved to Clermont and here she began her quest to qualify for the 2008 Olympic team. With eleven years of professional training, Damu made three world championship teams as well as the 2008 Olympic team. During this time, she ranked as high as number three in the world. Damu retired in 2012 from track and coached for three years with her track club Star Athletics.


SLCC Chair Kalena Meyers and Office Depot representatives

Office Depot, March’s Breakfast Sponsor

David Upchurch, representing Office Depot, spoke to the attendees on the value that Office Depot provides to small businesses.


 

Stuart Wilson of the Caribbean American Association of Lake County

Caribbean American Association of Lake County was co-sponsor

The non-profit organization focuses on enhancing the lives of its members and young people in the community! It promotes activities that build awareness of, and interest in, Caribbean culture and affairs; offers scholarships to high school seniors; supports a youth steel band – the Lake Steel Orchestra; and supports community and charitable projects. Last year’s annual major fundraiser, The Caribbean Beef Jerky Festival was unsuccessful due to drenching rains throughout the day at Clermont Waterfront Park. The organization is looking for sponsorships and hoping for fair weather and a very successful event on May 4.


Students of Lake Minneola High School Culinary Program

Every month the breakfast is catered by a different sponsor. Local High School’s Culinary students cater to many of the SLCC events.

This month Cracker Barrell was the sponsor.  The cost of the breakfast is $10 for members ($15 for nonmembers)


Brian Broadway from Living Message Church gave the invocation this month.

Brian Broadway from Living Message Church with Kathy Smith, Community Foundation of South La

New members are introduced and current members celebrating membership milestones are recognized each month. Door prize winners are announced (bring your business cards).

If you are interested in learning more about the South Lake Chamber of Commerce, visit SLCC.

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