The South Lake Chamber of Commerce hosted a festive holiday breakfast on Friday, December 15 at Clermont City Center. The event included a special musical performance by the Lake Minneola High School chorale group, Sola Vocé; a chance to showcase holiday spirit in an Ugly Sweater Contest; the recipient of the Ann Dupee-Gem of the Hills Award and sponsored presentations.
Clermont’s City Manager, Brian Bulthuis was garbed in the ugliest sweater and claimed victory in the male category, while Cathy Bateham of Affordable Health and Supplemental Insurance Solutions was awarded in the female category.
Pam Jones of Congressman Daniel Webster’s Office and Nate Edmund of the South Lake Chamber of Commerce sang a compilation of beloved holiday songs.
Lake Minneola High School Choir Sola Vocé performed with a musical ensemble, a 54-piece choir led by leader Ian Tapson.
The Ann Dupee – Gem of the Hills Award, a prestigious honor given to a distinguished member of the South Lake Community, known for their unwavering dedication to serving others was awarded to J Brian for his exceptional passion for the community.
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.
Key sponsors included Main Street Clermont and NuWave Health & Wellness. Presentations were also given by the Clermont Fire Department and Orlando Health South Lake Hospital.
