Article and Photos by Larry Oskin, Marketing Solutions
At the August South Lake Chamber of Commerce, SLCC CEO David Colby and Chamber Board Chairperson Donna Kirtland of the Live Well Foundation of South Lake made a very special presentation.
Kirtland shared, “We are pleased to present the annual SLCC Ann Dupee Gem of the Hills Award to an individual whose dedication and service to the South Lake community embody the spirit of this prestigious honor. For this morning’s recipient, being part of a community means more than simply owning a business in it; it means showing up, giving back, and supporting the people and organizations that make it special. Throughout his years in Clermont, this leader has made community involvement a meaningful part of his work. He proudly supports the men and women who serve and protect our community, by hosting an appreciation luncheon each fall for our Clermont Police, Fire, and Rescue EMT staffs to thank them for all they do.”
“His generosity extends throughout the community through supporting local businesses such as the Clermont Woman’s Club Luncheon, Tony Valente Scholarship Fund, Caribbean American Association of Lake County, Clermont Historic Village, and Central Florida Dreamplex, through donations and support for their food needs. He has also supported numerous local schools through sponsorships of athletic programs, art events, and cultural and educational activities, while often providing food to help make these events special for students, families, and staff. Through his businesses with Guru Indian Restaurant and The Venue, he has created more than a place to enjoy a meal. He has created a gathering place where people come together, celebrate milestones, conduct business, support charitable causes, and experience the culture and hospitality that have defined his career.”
“The son of a teacher and farmer, this entrepreneurial recipient went on to study and work at the renowned Taj Mahal Hotel before embarking on an international hospitality career with Marriott and later Disney. His leadership experiences across different cultures, countries, and kitchens have helped shape the entrepreneur, chef, and community leader he would ultimately become. He has recently captured that journey in his book, Lone Lion: An Independent Entrepreneur’s Tale of Adventure & Adversity, sharing the story of the challenges he faced, the people who influenced him, and the experiences that shaped his path from a small village in India to becoming a successful entrepreneur in South Lake.”
“Uday Kadam continues his story here in South Lake — one defined by generosity, gratitude, and a genuine commitment to giving back to the community he is proud to call home.
Uday’s endless community service and quality continues within The Venue and the Guru Indian Restaurant. The Venue has become Clermont’s newest and most premier event space. This spacious new hall and outdoor patio space is now available for private parties, charitable fundraisers, galas, business meetings, showers, milestone and award ceremonies as well as all special holiday celebration events. The options are endless for bridal engagement parties, baby showers, Sweet Sixteen’s, family reunions, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs.
Follow The Venue on Facebook at:https://www.facebook.com/thevenueclermontfl. Visit The Venue’s website at: thevenueclermont.com. Email: [email protected] to book a personal tour with your family, event planners and vendors. Check out their weekly Sunday Brunch and their September 10 Wedding Expo. The Venue is located at 2400 South Highway 27 in Clermont, FL 34711 in Building 1-101 Unit A. Call: 352-227-3729.
Kadam’s Guru Indian Restaurant offers a very authentic restaurant. With a diverse menu offering dozens of different delicious entrees, everything is always made with fresh foods, ingredients, sauces, and spices. Guru Indian Restaurant has consistently been awarded with ‘Best Indian Restaurant,’ ‘Best Restaurant Entrée’ and ‘Best Entree’ and other prestigious honors by various organizations and publications. They were just honored and named one of the ‘Top 10% Of the Restaurants in the World’ by Trip Advisor. Celebrating over 11 delicious years of his Guru Indian Restaurant success here in Clermont.
Guru’s Indian Restaurant offers fabulous cuisine, specialty entrees, tasty drinks, and personalized service. They are now open from 11 :00 am until 10:30 pm every day including all holidays. Located at 2400 US Highway 27, Suite 101 in Clermont, FL 34711. Call 352-241-9884 or visit: www.MyGuruToGo.com for takeout orders. Visit: www.GuruRestaurantCatering.com and: https://www.facebook.com/gururestaurantclermont
The post Ann Dupee Award Celebrating A Passionate Commitment to Community Service! appeared first on South Lake Tablet.
Source: South Lake Tablet
Published: 2026-08-24 11:35:00