Chamber
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OCTOBER 2013 • THE AWARD-WINNING PUBLICATION THAT COVERS THE fredericksburg regional BUSINESS COMMUNITY • Volume 31 • Number 10
Chamber to host Business Expo
Focus
on...
Election 2013
Election...................10-11
Trailblazer
Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center.............4
Member News New Members................. 5 Chamber Calendar......... 6
When the Chamber announced its 2013 Business Expo, Billie Armstrong knew what she had to do. “As soon as they sent [the word] out, I brought my check down and signed up,” she said. Ms. Armstrong, the founder and owner of Salon 730, expressed excitement at the chance to network with more than 100 other businesses that purchased booths at the expo. “Anything that will give us exposure in the community, we’re all over that,” she declared. “I like opportunities to network. I think it’s very important that we promote each other.” The 2013 Business Expo will take place from noon-7 p.m., Oct. 16, at the Fredericksburg Expo and Conference Center. It will be the Fredericksburg Region’s largest business networking event and will showcase up to 150 of the area’s savviest businesses. Indeed, Ms. Armstrong was so excited with the event she purchased two booths. Expo attendees can drop by the Salon 730 tables for free skin-care analysis and treatments, as well as free hair consultations and styling tips. The expo is free and open to the public. But if you want to purchase a booth and showcase your business, time is running out!
To reser ve your spot at the expo, contact Sheri Kroskie at (540) 373-9400 or e-mail sheri@ fredericksburgchamber.org. Hurry! Table space is limited.
Title Sponsor Fredericksburg Expo Center Platinum Sponsor Fantasy World Entertainment Pancho Villa Restaurant Gold Sponsor NSWC Federal Credit Union Silver Sponsor Courtyard by Marriott Stafford-Quantico Minuteman Press Media Sponsors The Free Lance-Star Media Companies The Star Radio Group
Chamber of Commerce 2013 Business Expo When Noon-7 p.m., Oct. 16 Where Fredericksburg Expo & Conference Center 2371 Carl D. Silver Pkwy.
Cost For-Profit Chamber member: 10’ booth only $350 Non-Profit Chamber member: 10’ booth only $200 Non-member: 10’ booth $700
Chamber, RGI to toast those who give to community at 2013 Goodwill Awards Non-Profit Corner.......... 7
Seminar Corner Seminar Corner.............. 6
Financial Corner
Benefits of permanent insurance........................... 8
Business Link.................19
The weather is cooling and the days are getting shorter. In a few weeks, Americans will pause to give thanks and reflect on the blessings in their lives. Rappahannock Goodwill Industries and the Chamber are starting the season of gratitude early this year at the 2013 Chamber Goodwill Awards. The ceremony will take place Nov. 13 at RGI’s Community Center. Awards will go to businesses that have contributed significantly to the non-profit community through financial gifts, in-kind donations of goods or services or sponsorship of employee volunteerism. “Investors, employers, and
citizens. Those components make up a healthy community,” said Woody Van Valkenburgh, CEO of RGI. “The Goodwill Awards celebrate the collaboration that drives our strong community.” RGI and the Chamber will present three awards: one to a business with more than 75 employees, one to a business with between 16 and 75 employees, and one to a business
with 15 or fewer employees. RGI and the Chamber are seeking nominations for these honors. Are you a non-profit that is thankful for a particular business this year? Does its team work effortlessly to support your organization’s needs? Re c o g n i z e t h e m f o r t h e i r contributions to the local community by nominating them for a Goodwill
To Register Go to www.fredericksburg chamber.org Call (540) 373-9400 E-mail sheri@fredericksburg chamber.org
What 12th Annual Chamber Goodwill Awards When 8:30 a.m., Wednesday, Nov. 13 Where Rappahannock Goodwill Industries Community Center 4701 Market St. Cost $15 for Chamber members * $20 for general public
Award! To obtain a nomination form, go to www.fredericksburgchamber.org or call (540) 373-9400. Nominations are due by 5 p.m., Friday, October 18. Sponsorships are available! For more info, contact Sheri Kroskie at sheri@fredericksburgchamber.org.
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ChamberLink • OCTOBER, 2013
BOARD AND STAFF FREDERICKSBURG REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
OFFICERS Kathryn “Kathy” Wall, Chair, Mary Washington Healthcare Mike Fidgeon, Vice Chair, Providence Service Corporation Mark Steele, Immediate Past Chair, The Title Professionals, LLC
President’s Perspective Made in FredVA contest offers a boost to local entrepreneurial spirit
Andy Kerr, Treasurer, StellarOne Susan Spears, President, Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce.
elected directors Mona Albertine, Jabberwocky Inc. Gene Bailey, Fredericksburg Regional Alliance Nick Cadwallender, The Free Lance-Star Publishing Cos. Greg Calvert, Kloke Transfer Maria Franklin, Union First Market Bank Adam Fried, Atlantic Builders, Ltd. Bill Hession, Lockheed Martin Kathy Hoffman, Mary Kay Cosmetics Richard Hurley, University of Mary Washington Regis Keddie II, Davenport & Co. Hart Rutherford, SimVentions Shawn Sloan, The Media Partners, LLC Woody Van Valkenburgh, Rappahannock Goodwill Industries Eric Watkins, Infinity Technologies Joe Wilson, PermaTreat Pest Control
legal counsel Margaret Hardy, Sands Anderson PC
chamber staff Michele Renee Dooling, Director of Finance & Human Resources, michele@ fredericksburgchamber.org Mary Garber, Director of Programs & Administration, mary@fredericksburgchamber.org. Katie Hansen, Executive Assistant & Member Services Support, katie@fredericksburgchamber.org Stacey Hicks, Administrative Support, stacey@fredericksburgchamber.org Sheri Kroskie, Member Services Assistant, sheri@fredericksburgchamber.org Tricia Benson Matthews, Membership Account Executive, Tricia@fredericksburgchamber.org Amanda Montelongo, Member Services Assistant, amanda@fredericksburgchamber.org Susan Spears, President, susan@fredericksburgchamber.org Whitney Watts, Director of Member Services, whitney@fredericksburgchamber.org George Whitehurst, Communications Director, george@fredericksburgchamber.org
contact information Telephone 540-373-9400 Facsimile 540-373-9570 Internet
www.fredericksburgchamber.org
ChamberLink is published monthly—12 times per year—by the Fredericksburg
By Susan Spears The entrepreneurial spark was as crucial to building America as the political freedoms enshrined in our Constitution. In fact, since the first colonists arrived here, our nation has been made up of people who dreamed of a better life and set about turning those dreams into reality. Donald Tr ump once neatly summed up this uniquely American spirit – “As long as you’re going to be thinking anyway, think big.” We at the Chamber couldn’t agree more. Our mission is to promote healthy economic growth in the Fredericksburg Region. That means doing whatever we can to stoke the embers of entrepreneurship into a roaring fire. That’s why I’m so excited that on Oct. 30, our Next Generation of Business Leaders will conclude its Made in FredVA contest by awarding a prize to a local innovator. The contest is modeled on ABC’s “Shark Tank” program, in which budding entrepreneurs showcase their ideas to a group of established
business leaders. The panel then considers the merits of the plans before selecting a winner that receives a cash prize to capitalize his or her proposal. For more than a month, a panel of distinguished business leaders assembled by the Next Generation has read and considered business proposals submitted by area students and professionals. This group has whittled the applications down to five finalists. On Oct. 30, the finalists will pitch their ideas to a second group of area business leaders. The panel will deliberate and then award a $10,000 prize to the proposal it deems most
viable. I hope you’ll come out for this evening of fun and even a little drama. Here is a chance for you to encourage the visionaries who will develop the ideas that power the economy of tomorrow. In an earlier column, I quoted the late great Walt Disney about the need to constantly move forward. Let me wrap up this piece by once again borrowing one of his gems of wisdom – “If you can dream it, you can do it.” Susan Spears is president of the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Regional Chamber of Commerce. Layout, design and production, including advertisements, by The Journal Press, Inc., P.O. Box 409, King George, VA 22485; (540) 775-2024. Postmaster, send 3579 to FRCC, P.O. Box 7476, Fredericksburg, VA 22404
Leadership Fredericksburg 2014 Class gets started
mission The mission of the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce is to facilitate healthy economic growth.
vision Be the leader for the business community assuring that the Fredericksburg Region is a major economic center in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
The Journal Press is pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia's policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap.
Members of Leadership Fredericksburg’s 2014 Class listen intently during the opening session of the nine-month development program. The event took place at Rappahannock Goodwill Industries’ Community Center.
OCTOBER, 2013 • ChamberLink
Chairman’s Report Chamber and its members to finish 2013 on a strong note I’m amazed that October has arrived. It seems just yesterday we were ringing in 2013 and now the year is three-quarters over. As the leaves fall and we enjoy cool evenings – and the height of football season! – I think it is appropriate for us to take a moment and reflect on the past and the future. The Fredericksburg Region continues to enjoy economic growth that many parts of the country can only envy. We are, of course, blessed by our proximity to Washington, D.C., which fuels business recruitment. Kathryn Wall But most of the success our community has enjoyed has been created by those of you reading this column. You’re the men and women – business leaders all – who hit the bricks every day to keep your companies not only running but expanding. You create the jobs that keep area residents employed. You produce and market the goods and services that provide us with the highest standard of living in the world. Let me take a moment and thank all of you for your hard work and dedication. Without you, there would be no vibrant community, let alone a Chamber of Commerce. You have helped make 2013 –so far – a banner year for this region. The Chamber has run at full throttle this year. We have put on more events, provided more educational and networking opportunities, and advocated more aggressively for the business community than at any point in our history. As we head into the final quarter of 2013, it is important that none of ease back on the gas. At the Chamber, we’re lining up exciting events for the remainder of the year and beginning to plan activities for 2014. I hope that all of you are taking a moment to put in place strategies that will help you finish 2013 on a high note – both financially and moralewise – and then, without pause, to move into a successful 2014. Kathryn Wall is Executive Vice President for Human Resource and Organizational Development for Mary Washington Healthcare.
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Technology innovators saluted at FredTech Awards Banquet Area techno-geeks had a fine time at FredTech’s 2013 Awards Banquet. More than 50 people gathered Sept. 18 at Stevenson Ridge to salute those who have used technology to improve the economy and the community in the Fredericksburg Region. FredTech honored individuals and organizations for their noteworthy contributions to the community through achievements in entrepreneurship, innovation or application of technology and education. The four honors presented were: • Emerging Technology Company Award was won by zebrareach, a company that connects online shoppers with local merchants throughout the Fredericksburg Region. Bill Blevins accepted on behalf ofthe company. • Spotlight Award went to FredTech’s STEM 16 Steering Committee, for its efforts to promote Science, Technology, Engineering and Math programs in regional schools. Committee Chairman George Hughes accepted the award on behalf of the group. • Innovative High Tech Entrepreneur of the Year Award was a joint presentation to Matt Armstrong, cofounder of Deedod, and to Christine Goodwin, founder of WishStars, for their efforts to promote high-tech entrepreneurship. David Cook accepted the awards on behalf of the winners, who were both away on business travel. • Geek of the Year Award was won by recent University of Mary Washington graduate Andrew Leonard, creator of CampusIDeas, an app that allows students to store and use their college IDs on their smartphones. Following the award presentations and a sumptuous dinner by Je T’aime Catering, attendees heard from Mark Deutsch, CEO and executive director of Business Network International – Central Virginia. Mr. Deutsch urged attendees to develop an understanding of why they do the things they do and look for opportunities to rethink their business operations.
Office Space available in The Journal Building King George Call Ella Hubbard 540-3793056
Mark Deutsch, CEO of BNI – Central Virginia, shared his thoughts on high-tech entrepreneurship at the 2013 FredTech Awards Banquet.
David Cook(left), 2012’s Geek of the Year, turns over the ceremonial geek glasses to Andrew Leonard, winner of the 2013 Geek of the Year Award. FredTech would like to thank the following sponsors for making possible the 2013 Awards Banquet: Title Sponsor Center for Innovative Technology
Bronze Sponsor Rappahannock Electric Cooperative
Silver Sponsors Germanna Center for Workforce & Community Education Marstel-Day, LLC SimVentions, Inc.
Student Table Sponsors DPW Training & Associates SimVentions, Inc. Spotsylvania County Department of Economic Development & Tourism
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ChamberLink • OCTOBER, 2013
Trailblazers
Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center celebrates growth and quality care
Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center celebrated its third anniversar y on June 7, 2013. This commemoration was also marked by the opening of the new Spotsylvania Regional Cancer Center, in partnership with VCU Massey Cancer Center for radiation therapy services. SRMC’s first three years have been characterized by t r e m e n d o u s vo l u m e growth and a sincere desire to exceed patient expectations in quality care. The hospital has achieved both with an increase in Emergency Room visits and inpatient care and patient satisfaction scores in the upper 10 percent of HCA hospitals nationwide. “Outstanding customer service is a product of the combined efforts of all staff at a facility,” said Terika Richardson, the hospital’s Chief Operating Officer. “The patient satisfaction scores of Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center ranked at the top, not only because we have spectacular nurses, physicians and support staff, but because we have a dedicated team of volunteers focused on making sure the needs of every customer are met. I echo the sentiments of many of our staff and patients when I say that I have never encountered such a great volunteer corps at another medical facility.” SRMC was selected as “Business of the Year” by the Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce in 2011
and is a $175 million hospital with 126-beds, providing a wide range of in- and outpatient services, including 24-hour emergency care, obstetrics, diagnostic imaging, intensive care, cardiac catheterization, surgery, and psychiatric care. The hospital’s growth in patient volumes created the catalyst to increase and advance many medical
services. A new Sleep Lab opened in 2012 on the hospital’s fifth floor, providing overnight testing for the diagnosis and treatment of potentially serious sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, excessive snoring, narcolepsy, restless leg syndrome and periodic limb movement disorder. Onsite Neonatal Partners joined with Women’s and Children’s Services to offer 24/7 baby care, along with The Perinatal Center, serving women with high risk pregnancies. SRMC’s emergency room regularly cares for more than 100 patients per day while averaging wait times of 30 minutes or less. Wait times can now be viewed on one of three LED signs near the facility, online at spotsrmc.com and Fredericksburg. com, or by texting ER to 23000. The hospital is now in its third year
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of NICHE certification – which designates that staff is trained in advanced geriatric care. Spotsylvania Regional operates as a community hospital, with a management team and a board of trustees who live in and are committed to the community. The board has established policies and set expectations for the hospital based on its knowledge and understanding of local healthcare issues. The Board of Tr ustees includes the following distinguished individuals: Margaret L e w i s, Te r i k a Richardson, Dr. Robert Weaver, Dr. Jeffrey Askew, Pat ConwayMorana, Lynne Richardson, Mark Kuechler, Dr. Christopher Vaughn, Dr. Anne Tr uong, Kent Farmer, Dan Nickelson, State Del. Bobby Orrock, Pastor Raymond Bell, Rosier Dedwylder and David Storke. In August, Tim Tobin, the founding CEO of Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center, retired after nearly 30 years with HCA. SRMC has employed more than 500 clinical and administrative staff members and it pays roughly $1.5 million in taxes annually to Spotsylvania County, thereby broadening the county’s tax base. This commitment to community is a key philosophy of HCA. Each year HCA Virginia facilities provide approximately $100 million in free charity care to needy patients and pays $100 million in taxes that support vital community services.
Workforce NOW forum focuses on regional economic development
Regional officials participated in a panel discussion on economic development moderated by Germanna Community College Vice President Jeanne Wesley(center). The panelists were (l-r) City of Fredericksburg Economic Development Director Karen Hedelt, Stafford County Business Development Administrator Rick Cobert, King George County Parks and Recreation Director Tim Smith, and Spotsylvania County Economic Development Director Tom Rumora. Officials from the five localities in Planning District 16 talked about attracting new industry to the area during a Sept. 10 forum hosted by Workforce NOW. Much of the discussion revolved around luring and retaining young workers by maintaining a high quality of life throughout the region. The panelists at the breakfast event included: Rick Cobert, business development administrator for Stafford County; Karen Hedelt, director of economic development and tourism for the City of Fredericksburg; Tom Rumora, director of economic development for Spotsylvania County; and Tim Smith, King George County’s director of parks and recreation.
Workforce Now would like to thank the following sponsors for making possible the Economic Development Forum: Silver Sponsors Spotsylvania County Department of Economic Development Virginia Commerce Bank Venue Sponsor Germanna Center for Workforce & Community Education Breakfast Sponsor Fredericksburg Regional Alliance
Workforce NOW to present Professional Development Series Thoroughly understanding and practicing basic business skills is crucial to the success of every employee and company. Do you have employees and staff members who are just beginning their careers or have minimal experience in the workplace? Could they use training in business skills outside of their specialty? Then Workforce NOW is offering just what they need! Throughout October, Workforce NOW will host a series of seminars that will give your team members skills that will greatly enhance their performance. Topics will range from problem solving to customer service. NSWC Federal Credit Union is serving as Title Sponsor. Participants will earn CEU’s and receive a Professional Development Certificate upon completion of the series. The seminars will take place at 8 a.m. each Thursday of October at Germanna Community College’s Fredericksburg-area Campus. Don’t wait! Reserve your spot by going to www.fredericksburgchamber.org or e-mailing stacey@fredericksburgchamber.org.
What Professional Development Series When 8-10 a.m., Thursdays throughout October Where Germanna Workforce & Technology Center 10000 Germanna Point Dr. Title Sponsor NSWC Federal Credit Union Cost Chamber members: $50 per person or five tickets for $200 General Public: $75 per person To Register Go to www. fredericksburgchamber. org or e-mail stacey@ fredericksburgchamber.org
OCTOBER, 2013 • ChamberLink
Please extend a warm hand of welcome to the following companies who have submitted applications to join the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce. Be a good partner: remember these companies when you do business.
Nest Realty Fredericksburg Sarah Stelmok 510 Princess St. Suite 201 Fredericksburg, VA 22401 Phone: (540) 455-7657 sarah@nestrealty.com www.nestrealty.com Real Estate Real Estate – Brokers Real Estate – Relocation Services
Belk Patrick Dunbar 500 Spotsylvania Towne Centre Fredericksburg, VA 22407 Phone: (540) 786-7100 patrick_dunbar@belk.com www.belk.com Department Stores
Forest Greens Golf Course Tom Coffman 4500 Poa Annua Ln. Triangle, VA 22172 Phone: 703-221-0123 tcoffman@forestgreens.com www.forestgreens.com Golf Course
Pro-Sound of Fredericksburg, LLC Kelly Steak 1700 Caroline St. Suite B Fredericksburg, VA 22401 Phone: (540) 846-7751 prosound1985@gmail.com Audio-Visual-Eqpt & Production Sound Equipment
Caring Transitions of Fredericksburg Pamela Pell 6300 Marye Rd. Woodford, VA 22580 Phone: (855) 592-5093 ppell@caringtransitions.net www.estatemovefredericks burg.com Real Estate – Relocation Services
Identity Management Systems LLC Mike Fritz 607 William St. Suite 103 Fredericksburg, VA 22401 Phone: (540) 656-2277 contactinfo@idsystemsllc.com www.idsystemsllc.com Computers – Services/Systems
Prudential Financial Services Matthew Poole 1919 Gallows Rd. Vienna, VA 22182 Phone: (703) 245-5034 matthew.poole@prudential.com www.prudential.com Financial Services
Courtyard by Marriott-Quantico Walter Burton 375 Corporate Dr. Stafford, VA 22554 Phone: (703) 221-6293 walter.burton@tmihospitality.com www.courtyard.com/mnzcy Hotels/Motels
Keolis Rail Services Virginia Gregg Baxter 10660 Wakeman Ct. Manassas, VA 20110 Phone: (703) 369-6225 Fax: (703) 369-6229 kmcclamroch@keolis.com www.keolis.com Transportation
Dave The Mover LLC Dave Wassenaar 11465 Lucky Hill Rd. Bealton, VA 22401 Phone: (540) 373-4717 davethebestmover@aol.com www.davethemover.com Moving & Storage
Leading Edge Electric Rodney Snyder 11700 Rutherford Dr. Fredericksburg, VA 22407 Phone: (540) 848-4016 rodneyleesnyder@yahoo.com Electrical Contractor
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Daniela Romero 4600 N. Fairfax Dr. Suite 102 Arlington, VA 22203 Phone: (703) 351-5171 Fax: (703) 469-1976 Daniela.romero@stjude.org www.stjude.org Non-Profit/Hospitals & Hospital Services The Thrasher Group Doug Richmond 236 Cambridge St. Fredericksburg, VA 22405 Phone: (540) 372-3499 Fax: (540) 372-6746 drichmond@thrashereng.com www.thrashereng.com Engineering Services
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University of Mary Washington Philharmonic Orchestra Dr. Kevin Bartram 1301 College Ave. Fredericksburg, VA 22401 Phone: (540) 654-1324 Fax: (540) 654-1966 philharmonic@umw.edu http://philharmonic.umw.edu Non-Profit/Entertainment Entertainment Wingate by Wyndham – Stafford Jennifer Childs 15 Salisbury Dr. Stafford, VA 22554 Phone: (540) 659-3600 Fax: (540) 659-8995 hparrish@fairbrookhotels.com www.wingatehotels.com/hotels/ virginia/stafford Hotels/Motels
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ChamberLink • OCTOBER, 2013
Chamber Calendar
OCTOBER 2 SPOTSYLVANIA ROUNDTABLE Wednesday, 8 a.m., at Hampton Inn & Suites South, 4800 Market St. OCTOBER 2 MIDWEEK MOTIVATION Wednesday, noon, at Ristorante Renato OCTOBER 2 RIBBON CUTTING Wednesday, 4 p.m., at Any Lab Test Now OCTOBER 3 WORKFORCE NOW PROF. DEV. SERIES INTERNAL CUSTOMER SERVICE Thursday, 8 a.m., at GCC - Fredericksburg Campus OCTOBER 3 NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION Thursday, noon, at the Chamber office OCTOBER 8 RIBBON CUTTING Tuesday, 3:30 p.m., at Highlightz Entertainment Center OCTOBER 9 STAFFORD ROUNDTABLE Wednesday, 8 a.m., at Wingate Inn, Stafford OCTOBER 9 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Wednesday, 5:30 p.m., at Wilderness Presidential Resorts OCTOBER 10 WORKFORCE NOW PROF. DEV. SERIES DECISION MAKING & PROBLEM SOLVING Thursday, 8 a.m., at GCC - Fredericksburg Campus OCTOBER 15 CNEW LUNCHEON Tuesday, 11:30 a.m., at the Fredericksburg Country Club OCTOBER 16 RIBBON CUTTING Wednesday, 9:30 a.m., at Belk at Spotsylvania Towne Centre OCTOBER 16 BUSINESS EXPO Wednesday, noon, at the Fredericksburg Expo & Conference Center OCTOBER 17 WORKFORCE NOW: - Fredericksburg Campus OCTOBER 18 BUSINESS 101 SERIES Friday, 8 a.m., at UMW Center for Economic Development Office at Eagle Village OCTOBER 23 STEM 16 EDUCATOR EXCHANGE Wednesday, 5 p.m. at GCC - Fredericksburg Campus OCTOBER 24 WORKFORCE NOW: DEALING W/DIFFICULT COLLEAGUES Thursday, 8 a.m., at GCC Fredericksburg Campus OCTOBER 29 GREENING YOUR BUSINESS SERIES WITH NAED Tuesday, 8 a.m., at National Academy of Environmental Design OCTOBER 30 NEXT GENERATION MADE IN FREDVA EVENT Wednesday, 5:30 p.m., at University of Mary Washington’s Dodd Auditorium OCTOBER 31 WORKFORCE NOW EFFECTIVE LISTENING Thursday, 8 a.m., at GCC - Fredericksburg Campus
Seminar Corner First Steps to Starting a Business Date(s): Oct. 7, 6-8:30 p.m. Location: University of Mary Washington’s Small Business Development Center at Eagle Village, 1125 Jefferson Davis Hwy., Suite 400, Fredericksburg Cost: $30 fee includes business partner To Register: Call (540) 654-1096, e-mail to sbdc@ umw.edu or go to www.SBDC-UMW.com. Registration deadline: Oct. 4 This seminar will provide the basics of selfevaluation, the idea, entrepreneurship, defining the need, determining the feasibility, and what actions are necessary. Topics within these areas will include analytical methods; research sources; the legal forms of businesses; record keeping; laws, regulations, and policies; and a discussion on the value and importance of business plans and financial analyses.
First Steps to Starting a Business Date(s): Oct. 21, 9-11:30 a.m. Location: University of Mary Washington’s Small Business Development Center at Eagle Village, 1125 Jefferson Davis Hwy., Suite 400, Fredericksburg Cost: $30 fee includes business partner To Register: Call (540)654-1096, e-mail to sbdc@ umw.edu or go to www.SBDC-UMW.com. Registration deadline: Oct. 18 This seminar will provide the basics of selfevaluation, the idea, entrepreneurship, defining the need, determining the feasibility, and what actions are necessary. Topics within these areas will include analytical methods; research sources; the legal forms of businesses; record keeping; laws, regulations, and policies; and a discussion on the value and importance of business plans and financial analyses.
QuickBooks FAQ Seminar Date(s): Oct. 8, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Location: Best Wester n, 2205 Plank Rd., Fredericksburg Cost: $39 per person To Register: Go to www.qbyopaevents.com This four-hour course focuses on the most frequently asked questions about integrating QuickBooks into your business operations. Participants who submit their QuickBooks questions online can get specific answers at the seminar. All attendees who register online will receive a free follow-up consultation at the Y-OPA office, as well as a 10 percent discount on their first service.
Chamber Non-Profit Business Builder Date(s): Oct. 22, noon-1 p.m. Location: Chamber office, 2300 Fall Hill Ave., Suite 240 Cost: No charge to attend. Seating limited to 25 people. To Register: Go to www.fredericksburgchamber. org This one-hour brown-bag session focuses on the unique needs of non-profit organizations in the Fredericksburg Region. Come meet with other nonprofit leaders to share business tips and best practices.
Blueprint Business Plan Workshop – ForProfit Business Date(s): Oct. 9, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Location: University of Mary Washington’s Small Business Development Center at Eagle Village, 1125 Jefferson Davis Hwy., Suite 400, Fredericksburg Cost: $75 non-refundable materials fee To Register: Call (540) 654-1096, e-mail to sbdc@ umw.edu or go to www.SBDC-UMW.com by Oct. 3 This one day five-hour workshop covers the development of the narrative and financial forecasting portions of the business plan. A workbook will be provided that will take the attendees through a stepby-step approach to creating a business plan. Topics covered include: research tools, writing methods, key documentation and requirements, financial statements, and methodologies needed for efficiently and accurately forecasting business financial results. NxLevel for Veteran-owned Business Startups Date(s): Oct. 12, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Location: University of Mary Washington’s Small Business Development Center at Eagle Village, 1125 Jefferson Davis Hwy., Suite 400, Fredericksburg Cost: $250 fee To Register: Call (540)654-1096, e-mail to sbdc@ umw.edu or go to www.SBDC-UMW.com. Registration deadline: Sept. 23 NxLevel for Veteran Business Startups is a 10-lesson course that addresses the questions every prospective business owner must answer in order to launch a successful and sustainable new venture. Participants will learn how to identify feasible start-up opportunities and bring them to fruition by creating an actionable startup business plan based on shrewd market research and proven start-up management techniques. Attendees must attend First Steps to Starting a Business prior to the start of this course. First Steps to Starting a Business seminar fees will be waived for all NxLevel attendees.
Chamber Small Business Builder Date(s): Oct. 24, noon-1 p.m. Location: Chamber office, 2300 Fall Hill Ave., Suite 240 Cost: No charge to attend. Seating limited to 25 people. To Register: Go to www.fredericksburgchamber. org This one-hour brown-bag session offers a chance to get practical business tips and to network with other small business owners and managers. Connie Whittingham, owner of the Y-OPA Consulting Group, will offer helpful bookkeeping hints.
Come to Business After Hours Join us for a fall celebration at Business After Hours hosted by Presidential Wilderness Resorts. Come spend an evening getting to know your fellow Chamber members and making the connections that can help your business flourish! What Business After Hours Where Wilderness Presidential Resorts 9220 Plank Rd., Spotsylvania When 5:30 p.m., Oct. 9 Cost No charge to attend
OCTOBER, 2013 • ChamberLink
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Non-Profit Corner The Salvation Army of Fredericksburg – Keeping hope alive since 1885 Everyone falls on hard times but imagine going through that hard time during the holidays, with two young children. Children who don’t understand why they can’t have the latest toy, or get a new book to read, or even worse not get a coat to wear that they desperately need to keep warm. As sad as it sounds, this happens more often than you think in the Fredericksburg area. Just ask Matt and Emily (names changed for privacy), siblings, who were faced with another Christmas with no gifts but ended up having a joyful Christmas thanks to our local Salvation Army. Matt and Emily’s parents applied for Christmas assistance with our Angel Tree Program, hoping the children would be “adopted.” Thankfully both Matt and Emily were adopted by a volunteer civic group and received numerous beautiful gifts including: handmade quilts, clothes, books, and new toys. When the mother came to pick up the gifts our lead volunteer went
outside to meet her and tell her about this Christmas miracle. The mother started crying and opened her old van door to show what little family belongings they had. This family of four (mother, father and two children) were all living in one hotel room and had been for months. The mother was astounded and could not believe how generous people were and how grateful she was to be able to “give” her children a Merry Christmas. This is just one of many stories of kindness thanks to the support of people throughout the Fredericksburg Region. With the support it receives from this great community, The Salvation Army has been able to encourage and strengthen more than 9,000 people since Jan. 1. Hungry stomachs have been filled, backs have been clothed and hundreds of families faced with eviction notices and disconnect letters, have been kept in their homes, warmed in the winter and cooled in the summer. But there is yet more
Chamber holds ACA workshop
Paul Scott, president of Scott Insurance and Financial Services, gave an overview of how the Affordable Care Act will affect small businesses during a Sept. 23 workshop hosted by the Chamber. Discussion focused on which small employers are required to provide health insurance to their employees and cost of doing so.
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work to be done. With the poverty rate growing faster than in years past and with a change in the services requested, and in those who are seeking assistance, The Salvation Army’s services are needed now more than ever before! Despite this increase in need and this paradigm change one fact remains – The Salvation Army is there ready to help, ready serve, ready to offer hope. Thanks to the generosity of private individuals, companies and foundations, The Salvation Army has been able to remain a constant help and support for nearly 130 years in this community. We are proud that for every dollar donated to The Salvation Army of Fredericksburg, 82 cents goes directly into services and programs that keep hope alive. With the holiday season right around the corner; and thousands of people needing a little extra help, please consider supporting The Salvation Army these ways: • donate to our red kettles when
out and about town • volunteer to be a bell ringer at https://redkettlevolunteer. org/ • donate online at http://www. virginiasalvationar my.org/ fredericksburgva • a d o p t a n a n g e l t h r o u g h our “Angel Tree” program, providing them with a joyful Christmas morning • donate coats during our December coat drive in Central Park If we all work together to “Do
the Most Good” we can ensure that thousands more of our friends and family members in this great community will never lose hope. Thank you to the Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce for helping The Salvation Army connect with those who can and are willing to keep hope alive. We are honored and proud to be a Chamber member! For more information about The Salvation Army services or holiday support please call (540) 374-3431 or email Jacob_Granados@uss. salvationarmy.org.
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ChamberLink • OCTOBER, 2013
Financial Corner
Living benefits add value to permanent life insurance plans By Rob Billingsley There are two types of life insurance, term and permanent, which are best known for their primary function of providing a death benefit. But if you look beyond the death benefit and understand the various options life insurance offers, you can find even more ways to strengthen your financial position. Term life insurance provides financial protection for a specific period of time (e.g., 10, 20, or 30 years) and pays a benefit only if you die during the term. If you outlive your policy, it will expire, and your coverage will end. Permanent life insurance, on the other hand, provides protection throughout your lifetime, as long as premiums are paid, and offers numerous additional financial benefits. Permanent life insurance policies build equity called “cash value” that accumulates over time. This accumulation of cash value, along with tax advantages available with a permanent life insurance policy, allows you to enjoy “living benefits,” including: • Guaranteed, tax-deferred growth – Your life insurance cash value is guaranteed to grow and to never decline in value. It contributes to your financial security with stable yet consistent growth that supports your financial goals. • “Collateral” for policy loans – The cash value you accumulate is an asset on your balance sheet with unique characteristics compared to other assets, such as your home, business, investments, and retirement funds. You may borrow money against the cash value of your policy at any time and for any reason. Among other things, policy loans can be tapped for funds to purchase a home, invest in a business or commercial property, handle a financial emergency, or supplement retirement income. You also may use the cash value as collateral to secure a loan from a bank. Cash value and death benefits are reduced if the loan is not repaid. • D iv i d e n d p a y m e n t s – Though they are not guaranteed, Northwestern Mutual has paid dividends on its insurance policies every year since 1872. If a dividend is awarded, you can choose to take the amount in cash, use it to pay back a policy loan, or use it to purchase
additional insurance (known as paidup additions) that increases the death benefit and cash value of the policy. Like other cash value, reinvested dividends grow tax-deferred. Cash proceeds may be taxed if they exceed the amount you’ve paid in premium during the life of the policy. • Flexible funds for retirement – You can use your permanent life insurance cash value to supplement your retirement income without the requirements and limitations that apply to 401k and IRA retirement accounts. You have several choices, including receiving your dividends in cash, surrendering paid-up additions that you purchased along the way, or taking a policy loan (all of which may have tax consequences or impact the death benefit). If you no longer need the death benefit and would like guaranteed income from your life insurance contract, you also may terminate the policy and have the cash surrender values paid out as an annuity. • College savings – Life insurance cash value is one of the few assets not considered in federal college financial aid calculations. Families with college-age children who have permanent life insurance policies not only can use the policy’s cash value (via policy loans) to pay college tuition and housing expenses but also might benefit from greater financial aid opportunities. • Legacy opportunities – There are many opportunities to leave a legacy through life insurance in addition to providing for your spouse, family and other heirs. If you own a business, you may consider using a policy as part of a buy-sell agreement to ensure continuity of a small business or liquidate your ownership stake upon your death. If you have a favorite charity or local cause, you can fund a legacy gift with a life insurance policy, naming the organization as beneficiary. • Locked-in insurability – Buying life insurance early in life is the best way to lock in your insurability, whether you are a parent buying life insurance for your children or a young single person without a spouse or children. As needs change, you can expand your coverage by converting a term policy to permanent insurance before it expires or by adding to an existing permanent insurance policy using an additional purchase option.
• Long-term care – If paid-up additions have been purchased with dividends during the life of your policy, you may be able to surrender them tax-free to pay for long-term care (LTC) insurance premiums by utilizing a 1035 exchange. This will decrease the policy’s death benefit and cash value as well as future dividends but could help you to fund long-term care insurance if you so choose. There also are other options for paying LTC premiums with your cash value. Your financial representative can tell you more about these options for using your life insurance policy. • Tax benefits – Permanent life insurance offers many tax advantages, including tax-deferred growth on cash value accumulation, tax-favored access to cash value up to the basis, and generally tax-free distribution of death benefits. Life
insurance is also used for estate planning to help cover estate taxes and ensure that the estate owner’s assets can be distributed as desired to heirs and family members. Permanent life insurance is a flexible asset that can add value to your financial plan with benefits you can enjoy during your lifetime – such as accumulation of cash value, taxadvantaged growth, and accessibility through policy loans. Using these living benefits may have tax consequences, so work with your financial representative and tax advisor to understand your options and determine the best course for your individual circumstances and needs. Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual
Life Insurance Company, Milwaukee, WI (NM) (life and disability insurance, annuities) and its subsidiaries. Robert T. Billingsley, J.D., CLU, CLTC, is an Insurance Agent of NM and Northwestern Long Term Care Insurance Company, Milwaukee, WI (long-term care insurance), a subsidiary of NM. Registered Representative and Investment Adviser Representative of Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (securities), a subsidiary of NM, broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, member FINRA and SIPC. There may be instances when this agent represents companies in addition to NM or its subsidiaries.
Next Generation of Business Leaders counting down to Made in FredVA event Budding entrepreneurs from around the Fredericksburg Region have submitted their ideas. Now they’re waiting to find out if they have a shot at winning $10,000 to capitalize their plans. It’s all part of the Next Generation of Business Leaders’ Made in FredVA contest. Come to University of Mary’s Washington’s Dodd Auditorium on Oct. 30 to find out who will take home the prize that could help them achieve their dreams. Patterned after ABC’s popular “Shark Tank” show, the contest invited students and professionals with great ideas for new businesses to submit their plans in writing to a panel of distinguished local entrepreneurs. After reviewing the applications, the panel selected the best five. Those five finalists will pitch their concepts to another panel of local business leaders on Oct. 30 in an event sure to be filled with fun, suspense, and maybe even some surprises. Don’t wait, register now by going to www.fredericksburgchamber.org, e-mailing stacey@fredericksburgchamber. org or calling (540) 373-9400. This may be your chance to meet the next Steve Jobs or Bill Gates. Don’t miss out!
Made in FredVA Sponsors would like to thank the following sponsors for making possible the Made in FredVA contest: Title Sponsor
Made in FredVA Start-Up Scholarship Sponsors Next Generation of Business Leaders City of Fredericksburg Economic Development Authority
Spotsylvania County Economic Development Authority Stafford County Economic Development Authority
Gold Sponsor Parrish, Houck & Snead Silver Sponsor ForAnything.com
OCTOBER, 2013 • ChamberLink
Business After Hours – Scott Insurance & Financial Services
9
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Chamber members slipped into autumn with a pleasant Business After Hours on Sept. 19, hosted by Scott Insurance & Financial Services. Attendees networked and enjoyed some great food. Shred-it had a truck on site to handle document disposal for members who needed to tidy up their offices.
Business After Hours Quality Inn Fredericksburg
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ChamberLink • OCTOBER, 2013
Negative campaigns, out-of-state money mark 2013 gubernatorial contest
Ken Cucccinelli (R)
Terry McAulliffe (D)
By Stephen J. Farnsworth & Benjamin Hermerding Welcome to the 2013 race for governor of Virginia, a competition where neither major party seems capable of putting its best foot forward. Republican Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli and Democratic businessman Terry McAuliffe are both deeply flawed nominees whose campaign strategies consist mainly of engaging in vicious personal attacks on each other. Between commercials, they focus on raising the money to pay for all that slash-and-burn advertising. With record-breaking campaign war chests filled with out-of-state cash to fund wave after wave of attack ads, the state’s long-suffering voters might be tempted to believe both messages: that one candidate is too extreme and the other too sleazy to be elected. The Republicans have focused their attack on Terry McAuliffe’s time with Greentech Automotive, a battery-powered car company that McAuliffe helped found in 2009. The thousands of jobs that McAuliffe promised would end up in Virginia have only amounted to about 90 – and they are in Mississippi. In addition, federal prosecutors are investigating Greentech for allegedly receiving preferential treatment for subsidized loans. For his part, McAuliffe and his team are trying to show that Cuccinelli and Republican Gov. Bob McDonnell are indistinguishable in terms of the gifts they received from Star Scientific CEO Jonnie Williams. Even though Cuccinelli received much less than McDonnell did (only about $18,000 in gifts - and he has donated that amount to charity), Democrats continue to hound the attorney general over his relationship to the big GOP donor. Polls continue to show the race is close, and that the negative ads are working for both sides. Both candidates receive significant negative evaluations in state voter surveys. In other words, take two unpopular candidates and add a mountain of negative advertising designed to make them even more disreputable. That’s a recipe for someone else, right? Well, there is a third name on the gubernatorial ballot, Libertarian Robert Sarvis, but so far he has received little media or public attention and his support lags far behind the major party candidates. Part of the problem, in fairness to Cuccinelli and McAuliffe, is that Virginia’s gubernatorial election is seen by many as a leading political indicator for the upcoming midterm congressional elections in 2014. Republicans want to use the victory to say Obama is in trouble, Democrats want to win to show he is still popular with voters. With the absence of a competitive contest in New Jersey, the only other state with a gubernatorial election this year, even more money and attention than usual is landing in the Old Dominion. Even so, things don’t have to be this way. Many voters want reasons to vote for candidates, and the two candidates have different views on many of the issues facing Virginia. McAuliffe liked the governor’s transportation bill that was signed into law earlier this spring; Cuccinelli opposed it. On job creation and economic development, Cuccinelli wants to lower the individual income tax rate from 5.75 percent to 5 percent; McAuliffe wants to improve transportation and reduce some taxes paid by businesses to spur new jobs. But there’s more.
McAuliffe likes the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, while Cuccinelli was one of the most aggressive attorneys general in the country to try to overturn that law in the courts. Cuccinelli opposes abortion and supported a new state law to force abortion clinics to follow stricter, hospital-style building codes; McAuliffe believes abortion should be legal and opposes the new building standards for the clinics. (We could discuss many other policy disagreements between the two, but you get the idea). In other words, there is plenty of material to generate an intensely issue-focused conversation over the future direction of Virginia. The candidates have taken opposite positions on many of the most prominent issues facing the state. They could use their advertising dollars to focus on these concerns rather than on the personal shortcomings of their opponent. Doing so would elevate the public debate and give voters a much clearer sense of what they would see from a Governor Cuccinelli or a Governor McAuliffe. There has been a steady downward trend in the discourse of Virginia politics, as Richmond increasingly becomes as scorched as the gridlocked national capital. In the remaining time before Election Day on Tuesday, Nov. 5, perhaps the campaigns will try to stop the trend towards the “Washington-ization” of Capitol Square. Or perhaps they will continue on their same course of mutual destruction. We will see in the campaign’s final weeks. While the highly combative gubernatorial campaign is getting most of the attention, Rev. E. W. Jackson, the Republican nominee for lieutenant governor, has been able to generate some public awareness as a result of controversial statements. The Democratic nominee, State Sen. Ralph Northam, is less well-known. The race for lieutenant governor may end up being more important than in most years. The Senate of Virginia – whose members’ terms do not expire for another two years – is currently split 20-20, with the lieutenant governor breaking the tie votes. Even more in the background is the attorney general’s race, where Republican Senator Mark Obenshain and Democratic Senator Mark Herring are dueling for Virginia’s third statewide elected office. As much as the state’s voters may wish to be done with campaigns after Nov. 5, the truth is there will be at least one and possibly two special elections for Senate seats vacated by current senators elected to statewide office. And those brief campaigns may also be fierce, as the replacement of one Democrat or one Republican by someone from the other party would give that party a 21-19 advantage in the state’s upper chamber. Then on to 2014! Stephen J. Farnsworth is professor of political science at the University of Mary Washington, director of the university’s Center for Leadership and Media Studies and coauthor of “The Global President: International Media and the U.S. Government,” published in August by Rowman & Littlefield. Benjamin Hermerding is an Alvey Scholar at UMW and a research associate at the center.
OCTOBER, 2013 • ChamberLink
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100 House seats on ballots, but how many truly contested? By Bob Gibson Most Virginians have no idea that all 100 seats for the House of Delegates are on Nov. 5 ballots all across the state. That probably suits current delegates, most of whom are expected to cruise to easy re-election, just fine. Thanks largely to partisan redistricting two years ago, most of the 32 seats occupied by Democrats are safe for them and the great majority of the other 68 seats are safe for Republicans. In 45 of the 100 House districts, there is no contest on the ballot. In effect, 29 Republicans and 16 Democrats already have House seats in their back pockets with no campaigning needed. House Speaker William Howell, R-Fredericksburg, faces no Nov. 5 opponent, having easily survived a spring primary challenge. The same is true for Del. Robert D. Orrock, R-Caroline County. Del. David Toscano, D-Charlottesville, and Del. Rob Bell, R-Albemarle County, face no opponent as incumbents given another two years without even a token challenge. In the other 55 districts, there are probably 10 or fewer in which voters have both a choice and the chance of a close enough race that polling might show a contest as tight as 55 percent to 45 percent. Most of those few non-landslide contests are in Northern Virginia or the Hampton Roads - Virginia Beach region, according to Democrats and Republicans watching the races closely. Other races in Danville, Hillsville to Marion, Giles to Blacksburg, Lynchburg and Williamsburg are worth watching, but experts in both parties predict low turnout and probably as few as a net gain of three or fewer seats by the party-out-of-power: the Democrats. Turnout predictions range from low (as in 40 percent of registered Virginia voters) to lower. Most Virginians are unlikely to vote on Nov. 5, even though the media is saturated with news and advertising about a highly contentious governor’s race. If Democrats gain more than a few seats, Republicans say they will be surprised. “The story this year is just how much went unopposed on both sides,” said Jeff Ryer, a strategist for legislative Republicans. “There are not a lot of races in play. We are headed for a turnout that could be the lowest since the Voting Rights Act [of 1965].” Mr. Toscano said voter turnout may be low and Democrats’ chances “will depend a lot on turnout. I think it’s going to be in the 40 - 42 percent range.” “We are fielding 37 challengers to Republicans or in open-seat races,” said Mr. Toscano, the House Minority Leader. He added that Democrats “start with the principle of fielding great candidates and are working hard to gain seats every two years.” Currently, Republican delegates hold seats in 19 districts that were carried by President Obama, thus giving Democrats places to pick up seats if enough Democratic voters from presidential elections are motivated to vote in a gubernatorial year. However, Republican incumbents hold a fund-raising advantage over their challengers as of the Sept. 16 financial filing deadline and have only a handful to 10 races to worry about serious challenges with plenty of money to defend against them. Northern Virginia Republican Dels. Tom Rust of Herndon, David Ramadan of Loudoun County and Barbara Comstock of McLean face Democratic challengers in districts that are not reliably Republican. Mr. Rust and Ms. Comstock especially enjoy significant funding advantages. Mr. Ramadan may be the most vulnerable Republican incumbent. Democrats Jennifer Boysko of Herndon, John Bell of Loudoun County and Kathleen Murphy of McLean are given a chance of defeating the Republican incumbents in those tightly contested Northern Virginia districts. Other races that could be somewhat close include several in Prince William County. Del. Mark Dudenhefer, R-Stafford, is being challenged by Democrat Michael T. Futrell of Woodbridge in a new House district that has more Prince William voters than Stafford voters. Democrats are starting below their historic current low total of 32 seats, however. They have given a district in Southwest Virginia to Republicans in the uncontested turnover of the seat of retiring longtime Del. Joseph Johnson, D-Abingdon. GOP newcomer Ben Chafin will be elected to Johnson’s seat in a GOP-trending district without a challenge, placing Democrats down one seat to start at 31. Del. Rob Bell of Albemarle noted that, barring a late runaway win by one of the candidates
for governor, the historical trend would be for a net gain of fewer than five House seats to switch from one party to the other. “Usually there’s a swing of a few seats,” he said. Republicans picked up an unusually high net of seven seats in 2009 when Gov. Bob McDonnell led the GOP ticket with an 18-point landslide victory over state Sen. Creigh Deeds, D-Bath County. Barring a blowout win for one of the candidates for governor, Virginians are likely to see a modest few seats in the House of Delegates shift from one party to the other. That is one measure of how strong the power of redistricting can be in creating one-party control of a vast majority of the districts. Candidates on both sides of the aisle have raised ethics reform as a major issue for the 2014 session of the General Assembly. Bills are being introduced to limit the size of gifts and increase reporting requirements in a state that has among the nation’s most lax rules governing gifts to elected officials and their families. Current Virginia law places no limit on the value of reportable gifts that elected officials can receive and does not require disclosure of gifts to family members. Restrictions on the amount of gifts that an elected official or immediate family member could receive, tightened reporting requirements and proposals to establish an independent ethics commission are being discussed as possible ethics reforms. What remains unclear is whether ethics reform can be a set of issues that drives voters to the polls on Nov. 5 and whether they provide a significant advantage to one political party’s candidates. It appears clear that the gubernatorial contest at the top of the ballot is increasingly marked by sharply personal negative advertising attacks that may blunt turnout. Bob Gibson is executive director of University of Virginia’s Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership. He served as a reporter and editor with The Daily Progress of Charlottesville from 1976-2008, where he covered local and state government and politics.
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ChamberLink • OCTOBER, 2013
Chamber invites you to take a Tuscany Holiday
ber
STANDARD PRESORT U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT NO. 82 WOODSTOCK, VA
AtION tHAt COVers tHe freDerICksbUrG reGIONAL bUsINess COmmUNItY • VOLUme 31 • NUmber 9
rnatorial candidates offer economic visions at Battleground Forum
rial election enters its final ty candidates are furiously e business community. uliffe and Republican Ken mantle of best qualified to ginia’s economic prosperg federal defense cuts and tainty. their contrasting visions t an Aug. 9 Battleground For more info and an application, e-mail michele@ e Prince William, Loudfredericksburgchamber.org. Fredericksburg Regional e. before an audience Asofthe days get shorter and the weather gets cooler, do you find yourself and community leaders dreaming of sun-kissed Tuscany? Would you like to stroll through the rsity’s Hylton Performing der pledged to historic work tire- sites dating from the Roman Empire? Perhaps you wish to visit ses to Virginia, keep taxes Florence – birthplace of the Renaissance. Or maybe you’d like to spend an mmonwealth’s transporta-
afternoon visiting the vineyards of Chianti. s, Mr. McAuliffe appeared Chamber wants to ahelp make yourMcAuliffe dreams FRCC Board Chair Kathy Wall shared light moment with Terry and Kencome Cuccinelli true. following Winter the forum. posed by panelistsWell from the portation network. Hecorner, also called but for Virginia to the Prince William time and Loudoun counties. The 2014 candiding Kathy Wall,may chairman be just around the this is perfect to book your directors. Derek McGinty expand its Medicaid program, argued for boosting dates heavily criticized each other as lacking the vacation. Join us for a nine-day holiday in beautiful, romantic Italy. Tuscany STEM education programs and vowed to agres- temperament, ethics and broad agenda needed to rated the session. business to the commonwealth. effectively lead Virginia. Following the forum, they Virginia’s community col- sively is famous forrecruit its new world-class art collections, charming medieval hill towns, During his appearance, Mr. Cuccinelli rejected held consecutive press conferences before attendhe workforce,” pledged a and sweeping, vineyard-covered hillsides. where want to be Medicaid expansion, predicting the that federal Tuscany ing a receptionis hosted by theyou presenting Chambers. andards of Learning and government would not meet its obligations. Bob McDonnell’s torecently see Botticelli paintings or Michelangelo’s “David.” Nowhere else could He also extoled his tax reform plan and voiced slated to pump about $1 youtransvisitsupport the home of Chianti winebetween or the town that produced continued “Under the for a “significant connector” on page 2 nually into the state’s Tuscan Sun.” This trip is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
ber invites you to take a tuscan Holiday
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cation now in the most
r its worldarming mesweeping, es. Tuscany to see Bothelangelo’s
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DAY bY DAY:
HIGHLIGHts:
Day 1: Board your transatlantic flight.
• Florence
• Round trip airfare
Day 2: Arrive Montecatini, check-in and unpack once for a seven night stay. A welcome dinner is included.
• Pisa & Lucca
• Airline fuel surcharges, taxes and fees
• Siena
Day 3: Montecatini/Florence: Enjoy a full day in Florence. • Cinque Terra (optional) Day 4: Montecatini/Pisa: Enjoy a tour of Lucca & Pisa. • San Gimignano Your visit of Pisa will also include a sightseeing tour of • Chianti Region Pisa’s Campo dei Miracoli (Field of Miracles). Day 5: Montecatini/Siena: Travel to Siena for a full day tour.
• Mentecatini
Day 8: Montecatini: Spend the day at leisure to explore on your own. Breakfast and dinner are included. Day 9: Montecatini - USA: Transfer to the airport for your flight home with wonderful memories of Italy.
• 7 nights in a First Class hotel • 10 meals (7B, 3D) • Sightseeing per itinerary • Admissions per itinerary • Preofessional Tour Manger
Day 6: Montecatini/Cinque Terre: Spend today at leisure or join the optional full day excursion to Cinque Terre. Day 7: Montecatini/San Gimignano & Chianti Region: Enjoy a tour to San Gimignano. Experience the Chianti Region this afternoon and taste the superb local wines.
INCLUsIONs:
$2
• Baggage handling
79 • Hotel transfers 9 s if d sa ep. 1 epos ve i $1 , 201 ted b 00 y 3 /p ers on !
The Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce
Military Affairs Council
Cordially invites you and your guests to the
2013 Report to the Community
Order personalized cards for your business from
Keynote Speaker
Major General Jeffrey S. Buchanan
Commander, Joint Force Headquarters National Capital Region Gen. Buchanan will talk about the leadership experience he has gained throughout his career, including multiple deployments to Iraq.
Monday, Nov. 25, 2013 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. UMW Jepson Alumni Executive Center 1119 Hanover Street, Fredericksburg Title Sponsor
Additional details coming soon
We can add your own custom photos, personal message and specialized graphics. Send your clients professional custom cards this year.
Call 540-709-7288 or email steve@journalpress.com for more information
OCTOBER, 2013 • ChamberLink
Business BRIEFS
Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer reports sales, leases
Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer is pleased to announce the following sales transactions: • 2312 Plank Rd. in Fredericksburg – AMG-VA Properties, LLC purchased the approximately 5,925 squarefoot property from SBC III REO LLC for $750,000 with plans for a future restaurant at the location. Virgil G. Nelson, CCIM, handled the sale negotiations on behalf of the seller. • 565 White Oak Rd. in Stafford County – Iglesia Pentecostal Cristo La Roca, LLC and Eastor Fuasto, IV purchased the 3,525 square-foot church property situated on approximately 2.9 acres land from Jennifer M. and Ernest L. Murry Trustee for $700,000 for use as a church.• Virgil Nelson handled the sale negotiations on behalf of the seller. • 1005 Mahone St. in Spotsylvania County – Mahone Street, LLC purchased the approximately 4,000 squarefoot office property from Alfred E. Sharp, III for $400,000. Plans call for relocating the engineering firm, Fairbanks & Franklin, to this location after renovations are complete. Mike Degen and Sharon E. Schmidt of Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer handled the sale negotiations on behalf of the buyer. • 5201 Lad Land Dr. in Spotsylvania County – KnifeCenter, Inc. purchased the approximately 21,000 square-foot industrial property situated on 2.9 acres from Heintz Properties, LLC for $1.4 million and will relocate its operation to this location. Virgil Nelson handled the sale negotiations on behalf of the seller.
Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer is also pleased to report the following recent lease transactions: • Per-Se Technologies – renewal for 12,000 square feet of office space in Jackson Square Business Park at 4718 Carr Dr. in Spotsylvania County. Jamie A. Scully, CCIM, and Sharon E. Schmidt handled negotiations. • Installed Building Products II, LLC – renewal for 6,000 square feet of industrial space at 230 Industrial Dr. in Spotsylvania County. Virgil Nelson handled negotiations. • Michaels Towing & Recovery Service – 5,000 square feet of industrial space at 5000 Liberty Ln. in Spotsylvania County. Virgil Nelson handled negotiations. • Rent-A-Center East Inc. – renewal for 5,000 square feet of retail space in the Centre at Culpeper II at 15151 Montanus Dr. in Culpeper County. Berkley Mitchell handled negotiations. • Q Integrated Investments, LLC – 1,755 square feet of office space in Salem Fields Office Building 2 at 7119 Salem Fields Blvd. in Spotsylvania County. Jamie A. Scully and Sharon E. Schmidt handled negotiations. • Ardent CrossFit – 4,102 square feet of retail space in North Stafford Plaza at 261-263 Garrisonville Rd. in Stafford County. Berkley Mitchell handled negotiations. • Loudmouth Cycles, LLC – 3,600 square feet of space at 30 Walsh Ln. in Stafford County. Virgil Nelson handled negotiations.
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FredTech to host second annual STEM 16 Educator Exchange Are you a business interested in getting involved with STEM initiatives (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) in the Fredericksburg Region? Are you a teacher interested in sharing your STEM initiatives and your needs with the region’s business community? Then come to the second annual STEM 16 Educator Exchange. This event will promote STEM partnerships between schools and businesses. Teachers will get to pitch their STEM programing and/or classroom activities while businesses will have the opportunity to showcase their available resources and/or interest in STEM initiatives. The “Pitch Your Program” portion of the event will be followed by a Speed Networking session. This is a great event for both teachers and businesses to network and create lasting partnerships to further STEM initiatives in the Fredericksburg
S A Medical
Region. Sponsorships are available. Contact Amanda Montelongo at amanda@fredericksburgchamber.org or (540) 373-9358. Anyone interested in “Pitching Your Program” at the exchange should indicate so when registering.
STEM 16 Educator Exchange
When 5-7 p.m., Oct. 23 Where Germanna Workforce & Technology Center 10000 Germanna Point Dr. Cost FredTech members: $10 General Public: $15 Teachers: No charge To Register Email stacey@ fredericksburgchamber.org, or call (540) 373-9400. October Ribbon Cuttings Any Lab Test Now 1135 Jefferson Davis Hwy. 4 p.m., Oct. 2 Highlightz Entertainment Center 454 Cambridge St. 3:30 p.m., Oct. 8 Belk Spotsylvania Towne Centre 9:30 a.m., Oct. 16 Mark your calendar and come out to celebrate fellow Chamber members’ success!
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ChamberLink • OCTOBER, 2013
Business BRIEFS Comfort Keepers Welcomes Wayland Marks, M.D.
The Title Professionals expands to Spotsylvania
Local Geriatrician, Wayland Marks, M.D., has much more to offer the Greater Fredericksburg community. After a short time in retirement, Dr. Marks was searching for the right opportunity to provide his expertise in dementia and geriatrics. He found that opportunity with Comfort Keepers. Dr. Marks is a highly regarded physician by the medical community, his patients and families. As community needs grow for experts in geriatrics and dementia, Dr. Marks’ return to the field is being embraced with much enthusiasm. Dr. Marks is serving as a Geriatric Wayland Marks, M.D. consultant at Comfort Keepers. He began accepting patients for geriatric and dementia assessments in September and is providing families with his expert recommendations and working closely with patients’ primary care physicians regarding their follow-up care. In addition, upon request he is performing house calls to home bound patients. “We are very excited to be able to offer our Geriatric consult service to our community” said Neda McGuire, owner of Fredericksburg Comfort Keepers. “There has been a void in expert assessments for some time. To be able to provide families with the expertise in dementia is very rewarding. Our goal is to provide a comforting environment where families have ample time during visits to discuss their concerns with a Geriatric expert.” To schedule an appointment or for more information call Comfort Keepers at: (540) 370-0008.
The Title Professionals, LLC is pleased to announce the opening of its newest location in Spotsylvania County. The office, the company’s third location, is located at 10708 Ballantraye Dr., Suite 204, near the intersection of Courthouse Road and South Point Parkway. This office will provide residential and commercial title and settlement services for Spotsylvania, Caroline counties and the surrounding areas. The office manager, Michelle Marks Cleland, has more than 20 years’ experience in the local title and settlement industry “This office positions us in the growing Spotsylvania real estate market and allows us to continue to provide outstanding service throughout the Fredericksburg Region,” said Marketing Director Melda Bates. “Our newest office will be staffed with some of the finest title personnel in the local industry, and we plan to demonstrate a high level of energy and exemplary customer service. We are looking forward to providing our current and future clientele with an additional location for their convenience, with unsurpassed levels of prompt and professional service. The Title Professionals, LLC is a locally owned full service title and settlement agency that was founded in 2001. The company has other offices at 1010 Charles St. in Fredericksburg and 11 Hope Rd., Suite 215 in Stafford. The company provides commercial and residential settlement and title insurance services throughout the Rappahannock Region.
EverSewEnglish growing steadily Ten years ago Jennifer Church would never have thought she would be a business owner who specializing in custom handbags and custom embroidery services. But EverSewEnglish, LLC is succeeding beyond her wildest expectations. The company recently purchased two new embroidery machines, allowing it to decrease production time on bulk item orders, as well as run smaller jobs at the same time. “The new machines have the ability to add embroidery on pockets, sleeves, or pant legs and larger embroidery areas on hats and jackets,” Ms. Church said. Ever Sew English, LLC is a women-owned small business with headquarters and manufacturing operations in Fredericksburg Virginia. The company’s retail operation provides hundreds of one-of-a-kind handbags, wedding and baby shower gifts for immediate purchase. Additional services include custom design facility and have expanded to offer full embroidery services. Retail operations are located at 1217 Jefferson Davis Hwy. and are open Monday through Saturday, 10a.m.-7p.m., and evenings or Sundays by appointment.
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Local PR agency wins award Susan Carol Associates Public Relations (SCAPR) earned an APEX Award for publication excellence for the quarterly newsletter it produces on behalf of Radiologic Associates of Fredericksburg (RAF) and its interventional radiology group, Virginia Interventional & Vascular Associates (VIVA). Imaging Advances, tailored for the region’s referring physicians, was entered into the category of “One-of- a-Kind Health & Medical Publications” and was selected from among 2,400 entries for this honor. Produced by the Health Industry Writers division of SCAPR, the newsletter is also distributed in local radiology waiting rooms. Imaging Advances features stories about radiology innovations treatments available in the greater Fredericksburg Region and resources available to referring physicians and patients. The newsletter also focuses on human interest stories about RAF’s physicians. The publication was launched in 2009 as a print publication and since 2011 is also produced digitally. The editions are archived within RAF’s website at www.rafimaging.com. The editor, Carla Young Harrington, a public relations professional and writer with the agency, leads a team that includes Sue Carrington, features writer; June Padgett, designer; and Chris Jones, who manages the newsletter mailing list and e-newsletter distribution. Jeri Phillips, also an SCAPR associate, is the account manager. Contributing photographers have included Dan Donehey and Dr. Daryle Darden of RAF. The group collaborates closely with Irene Valentino, RAF director of administrative operations, and other RAF and VIVA professionals to develop story ideas. The annual APEX awards are based on excellence in graphic design, editorial content and the ability to achieve overall communications excellence. They are administered by Communications Concepts, of Springfield, VA.
SimVentions receives V3 Certification SimVentions, Inc. recently became one of just 108 companies to receive the “Virginia Values Veterans” (V3) Bronze Certification for its efforts to hire veterans. Virginia’s V3 initiative is about training companies to connect with veterans, one of our nation’s most valued resources, and in the process, help municipalities throughout the commonwealth stimulate Virginia’s economy. More than 300,000 men and women leave the military each year looking to transition back into the civilian workforce. Historical statistics show that of that number, one-third returned to their home of record, onethird of them remained where they were last stationed and one-third of them go to areas of the county where they can find meaningful employment. “At SimVentions, 30 percent of our current workforce is made up of veterans, and so far this year 30 percent of our new hires have been veterans. We are well on our way to exceeding our goal commitment to V3 for this current year, and we are honored to be part of this program that places value on those that have served this country in our military,” SimVentions CEO Larry Root said recently. SimVentions is a small business with its corporate offices in Spotsylvania County. Since 2000, it has delivered engineering, prog ram management, and training solutions to America’s armed services. The SimVentions team’s passion is for ensuring that its members’ gifts and talents are put to use in delivering meaningful capability to America’s research and development labs and the U.S. military’s men and women.
Contact Charlene Franks at charlene @journalpress .com to get your ad in ChamberLink
OCTOBER, 2013 • ChamberLink
Community Foundation awards scholarships to local graduates
Mary Washington marks 20 years at Sam Perry Boulevard Since Mary Washington Hospital moved into a state-of-the-art, $84 million building on Sam Perry Boulevard 20 years ago, the hospital has grown into a regional medical center – offering open-heart surgery, neurosurgery, Level II trauma center care, advanced cancer care, Level III NICU, and other services typically found only at facilities in major cities. Once-vacant acreage surrounding the gleaming hospital has sprouted an array of health-related buildings. The Mary Washington Hospital campus has attracted physicians’ offices and jobs, drawing patients from across the countr y for specialized medical help, expanding the tax base, and sparking new development and revitalization nearby. “Fredericksburg has benefited greatly,” Former Fredericksburg Mayor Lawrence A. Davies said. “We still feel that we’re blessed to have the facilities, the staffing and the physicians who are part
Fall back and update your Membership Directory info As we head into the season when we set our clocks back, don’t forget to go back into ChamberMaster and update y o u r m e m b e r s h i p i n f o. ChamberMaster is our online searchable database of more than 1,000 people with whom you can do business! Later this year, we will pull information from ChamberMaster for our 2014 Membership Directory. It is vital that your contact information be up-to-date. Don’t wait, login to ChamberMaster today and update your information. Go to www.chambermaster. com and click login. If you do not remember your login name or password, e-mail stacey@ fredericksburgchamber.org. We want to help you market your business to fellow Chamber members. Help us by updating your info today!
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Mary Washington Hospital of Mary Washington. There have been advantages all around. It’s made us the leader in this area for healthcare.” The September 12, 1993 move from the aging, 307-bed Fall Hill Avenue facility to the gleaming 318-bed replacement was spurred by evidence that the new hospital was needed to serve its fast-growing region well into the 21st Century. Indeed, Mar y Washington Hospital has evolved into a tertiary care center, ensuring the community’s access to leadingedge treatment. Since the Sam Perry facility opened its doors, the Emergency Department has doubled in size. A five-story, 94-bed tower was added. Four new operating rooms opened. The Family Birth Place added beds. A Women’s Center
was built. The new Regional Cancer Center brought stereotactic radiosurgery here. The arrival of Stafford Hospital – like Mary Washington, a part of Mary Washington Healthcare – expanded the local availability of high-quality healthcare services. Along the way, Mary Washington Hospital has earned numerous accreditations and national awards for quality and safety, such as Magnet® status in nursing for adhering to the highest care standards. In 2012, MWH was named one of America’s 100 best for spine surgery. “Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the current hospital facility recognizes the foresight of leaders from a generation ago, said Kevin Van Renan, senior vice president and administrator of the hospital.
SimVentions, Inc. wins Inc. 500 nod for outstanding sales growth Inc. magazine recently ranked SimVentions number 2062 on its seventh annual Inc. 500|5000, an exclusive ranking of the nation’s fastest-growing private companies. The list represents the most comprehensive look at the most important segment of the economy –America’s independent entrepreneurs. SimVentions joins LivingSocial, Edible Arrangements, CDW and Lifelock, among other prominent brands featured on this year’s list. “In the past SimVentions has been blessed to be recognized by our governor as a ‘Job Creator,’ by our local chamber of commerce as ‘Business of the Year,’ and by the State of Virginia as one of the ‘Best Places To Work In Virginia.’ This new recognition by Inc. magazine, as one of the fastest growing private companies in America, comes as no sur prise…and reflects the hard work, dedication, entrepreneurial spirit, creative atmosphere, innovative solutions, positive and caring culture, and amazing employees and staff we have here at SimVentions,” declared SimVentions CEO Larry Root.
“When you mix all of that with God + Country + an incredible love and commitment for what we do on behalf of our country’s warfighters, armed services, and research and development labs – how could we have done any less?” In a stagnant economic environment, the median growth rate of 2013 Inc. 500|5000 companies is an impressive 142 percent. The companies on this year’s list report having created more than 520,000 jobs in the past three years, and aggregate revenue among the honorees reached $241 billion. Complete results of the Inc. 5000 can be found at www. inc.com/5000. “Not all the companies in the Inc. 500 | 5000 are in glamorous industries, but in their fields they are as famous as household name companies simply by virtue of being great at what they do. They are the hidden champions of job growth and innovation, the real muscle of the American economy,” Inc. Editor Eric Schurenberg recently said.
Generous local donors have provided $100,783 in scholarships to 38 students who are now attending college. All philanthropic funds that provide the annual scholarships are administered by The Community Foundation. “The Community Foundation now has 33 scholarship funds and each has its own criteria. Our awards committees were very impressed by the credentials of the applicants,” said Executive Director Teri McNally. The students live in the City of Fredericksburg and the counties of Caroline, Culpeper, King George, Spotsylvania and Stafford. Some scholarships are merit based; others are need and merit based. Some focus on student athletes; others support a future field of study, such as nursing or business. Some are available to seniors throughout the region; others are offered only to students in specific localities or schools. The scholarship winners and their respective high schools, scholarships and chosen colleges include: • Michael Amrhine, Courtland High School, the Baron P. “Deuce” Braswell II Memorial Scholarship for College of William & Mary • Lindsey Armentrout, King George High School, the King George High School Sports Hall of Fame Scholarship for Virginia Tech • Chantz Ballard, Spotsylvania High School, the Chris Ross Memorial Scholarship for Christopher Newport University • Katie Barnum, King George High School, the Jeremy Daniel Hawley Scholarship for Longwood University • Benjamin Camber, James Monroe High School, the Bill Lontz Science Scholarship for University of Virginia • Anna Cobey, James Monroe High School, the Betty Merrill Scholarship for Excellence in Latin for Hampshire College • Danielle Cordle, Spotsylvania High School, the Mary B. and Perry A. Thompson Scholarship & the Seay Family Memorial Scholarship for University of Virginia • Morgan Dean, North Stafford High School, the Steven Snyder Memorial Scholarship for North Stafford for University of Virginia • Ta’Nesha Fry, James Monroe High School, the Mary Carter
Frackelton Scholarship & the James Monroe High School 1992 Girls Athletic Scholarship for George Mason University • Douglas Haas, King George High School, the Richard C. Hayden Family Scholarship for University of Virginia • Deana Hamlin, Brooke Point High School, the Mary B. and Perry A. Thompson Scholarship, and the Mary E. Berger Scholarship for Princeton University • Cassandra Hooghouse, Stafford Senior High School, the Kay Orr Memorial Scholarship for Virginia Commonwealth University • William Inserra, North Stafford High School, the Brandon Thomas Lawn Memorial Scholarship for San Jose University • Chloe Karlovich, Stafford Senior High School, the Baron P. “Deuce” Braswell II Memorial Scholarship for University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill • Matthew Kirchner, Fredericksburg Academy High School, the ShackLax Memorial for West Virginia University • Mason Latimer, Chancellor High School, the Molly Gill Memorial Scholarship for University of Mary Washington • Julie Lee, Caroline High School, the Irene Miller Memorial Nursing Scholarship for Germanna Community College • Shaquia Lewis, Caroline High School, the Walton Mahon Scholarship for Old Dominion University • Joseph Lynard, Caroline High School, the Mary Carter Frackelton Scholarship for Old Dominion University • Rebecca Maurer, Fredericksburg Christian High School, the Sofia Silva Scholarship for University of South Carolina – Columbia • Hannah Morgan, King George High School, the Kenneth T. Whitescar ver III Memorial Scholarship for University of Mary Washington • Kaylee Newcomb, James Monroe High School, the Crittenden R. Sullivan, Jr. Memorial Scholarship for Virginia Commonwealth University • Neil Ott, Mountain View High School, the Baron P. “Deuce” Braswell II Memorial Scholarship & the Mar y B. and Per r y A. Thompson Scholarship for Virginia Commonwealth University
Call Carla Gutridge at 540-709-7061 to get your ad in ChamberLink
16
ChamberLink • OCTOBER, 2013
CNEW Luncheon
Ribbon Cutting Well Adjusted Healthcare
CNEW attendees got to know each other better during the speed networking activities. Attendees at the Sept. 17 CNEW Luncheon stretched their boundaries by participating in fast, fun speed networking sessions. RAELYNN-Marketing Promotions sponsored the event. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. At the Oct. 15 CNEW Luncheon, Dr. Premal Sanghavi with Mary Washington Healthcare will talk about breast health, as well as breast cancer prevention and awareness. The Empower House will sponsor the meeting, which will take place at the Fredericksburg Country Club beginning at 11:30 a.m. The cost is $20 for Chamber members, $30 for non-members. Go to www.fredericksburgchamber. org to register and pay or call (540) 373-9400. All registrations and payments must be received by noon, Friday, Oct. 11. Contact Sheri Kroskie at (540) 373-9400 or sheri@fredericksburgchamber. org.
Justin Bryant and his wife, Tanya, wielded the scissors during a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of their new business, Well Adjusted Healthcare. Located at 10685 Spotsylvania Ave., Well Adjusted Healthcare takes great pride in providing the finest chiropractic care to each and every patient. Patients receive spinal correction and chiropractic adjustments utilizing “state of the art” chiropractic techniques.
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Mayor Mary Katherine Greenlaw snipped the ribbon at a Sept. 25 ceremony attended by area business and community leaders, who celebrated the newly renamed Boys and Girls Club of the Rappahannock Area. Headquartered at 200 Gunnery Rd., the Boys and Girls Club provides recreation and companionship opportunities to young people throughout the Fredericksburg Region.
Cara Parker, founder and president of C. Parker Consulting, and her husband, Steven, wielded the scissors at a ceremony marking the opening of the company’s new office. Located at the Princess Anne Building, 904 Princess Anne St., C. Parker Consulting is a multi-disciplinary organizational development firm that works to develop a deep understanding of your business’ objectives and what you need to do to achieve them.
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OCTOBER, 2013 • ChamberLink
Fredericksburg Roundtable
Wilson Greenlaw(second from right) led a discussion of the City of Fredericksburg’s Main Street Initiative at the Sept. 3 Fredericksburg Roundtable. Also attending were Roundtable Chair Amy Peregoy(second from left) and Andi Gabler(far right), as well as Holli Butler, Sue Bridi and Glen Landford and Josie Johnson of Union First Market Bank, which sponsored the event. Wilson Greenlaw with Cushman and Wakefield|Thalhimer discussed the City of Fredericksburg’s Main Street Initiative at the Sept. 3 Fredericksburg Roundtable. Union First Market Bank sponsored the event. The next Fredericksburg Roundtable will take place at 8 a.m., Oct. 1 at Homewood Suites, 1040 Hospitality Ln. Ted Hontz of Basic Commerce and Industries, Inc.; Jennifer LaRock of Stevenson Ridge, and Howard Owen of Stafford Printing will lead a discussion on “greening your business.” People’s Community Bank will sponsor the meeting. Fredericksburg Roundtable meetings usually take place at 8 a.m., the first Tuesday of each month. The cost is $10 for Chamber members who pre-pay and $12 for those who pay at the door. The price includes breakfast. Non-member guests may attend one time for $15. Please e-mail amanda@fredericksburgchamber.org for sponsorship opportunities. To register and pay, go to www.fredericksburgchamber.org. Any Chamber member is welcome to attend the monthly Fredericksburg Roundtable, especially those businesses located in Fredericksburg or those that have business interests in that part of the region.
Stafford Roundtable
Cara Parker(left), founder and president of C. Parker Consulting, discussed creating high-performance groups. Joining her was Roundtable Chair Kathy Hoffman. Cara Parker, president of C Parker Consulting, led breakout exercises for creating highperformance teams at the Sept. 11 Stafford Roundtable. Chancellor’s Village Retirement Community sponsored the event. The next Stafford Roundtable will take place at 8 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 9, at Wingate by Wyndham – Stafford, 15 Salisbury Dr. Stafford County Commissioner of the Revenue Scott Mayausky will speak at the meeting. The Stafford Roundtable usually takes place the second Wednesday of each month. The cost of attending is $10 for Chamber members who pre-pay, $12 for those who pay at the door. The cost includes breakfast. Non-members may attend one time for a cost of $15. Please go to www.fredericksburgchamber.org to register. Contact Sheri Kroskie at sheri@ fredericksburgchamber.org for sponsorship information. Any Chamber member is welcome to attend the monthly Stafford Roundtable meeting, especially those businesses that are located in Stafford or those that have business interests in that part of the region.
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Spotsylvania Roundtable
Suzie Smith(center left) and Lorrie Livingston(center right) of the Spotsylvania Education Foundation spoke at September’s Spotsylvania Roundtable. Joining them were (l-r) J.E.H. Hicks, Sarah Jinkerson and Barry Waldman of Jarrell, Hicks & Waldman, PC, which sponsored the meeting. Laurie Livingston and Suzie Smith with the Spotsylvania Education Foundation talked about education innovation at the Sept. 4 Spotsylvania Roundtable. Jarrell, Hicks & Waldman, PC sponsored the breakfast meeting. The next Spotsylvania Roundtable will take place at 8 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 2 at Hampton Inn and Suites South, 4800 Market St. Laurie Newman with Rappahannock Goodwill Industries will speak about helping those with disabilities find work. Chancellor’s Village Retirement Community will sponsor the event. Spotsylvania Roundtable meetings usually
occur the first Wednesday of each month at 8 a.m. The cost of attending is $10 for Chamber members who pre-pay and $12 for members who pay at the door. The cost includes breakfast. Non-member guests may attend one time for $15. Please e-mail amanda@ fredericksburgchamber.org for sponsorship opportunities. To register, go to www. fredericksburgchamber.org. Any Chamber member is welcome to attend the monthly Spotsylvania Roundtable meeting, especially those businesses located in Spotsylvania or that have business interests in that part of the region.
Mid-Week Motivation
Dr. Chris Neibauer(center) discussed running multiple businesses at September’s Mid-week Motivation. Joining him were (l-r) Next Generation Board Member Chris Fines and Next Generation Vice Chair Bill Freehling. Dr. Chris Neibauer, entrepreneur and founder of Neibauer Dental, discussed creating multiple businesses at the Next Generation’s Sept. 4 Mid-week Motivation. The next Mid-week Motivation will take place at 11:45 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 2. Former Olympic swimmer and REDCO504 President Jeff Rouse will speak. The lunch meeting will take place at Ristorante Renato, 422 William St. The cost is $18 for Next Generation members, $24 for the general public. Please go to www. fredericksburgchamber.org to register. Mid-week Motivation is a monthly professional development luncheon featuring local business leaders who share business tips and their life experiences. The Next Generation provides opportunities for the Fredericksburg Region’s young professionals between the ages of 21 and 40 to engage with the community through professional development, civic outreach and social/business networking.
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ChamberLink • OCTOBER, 2013
Transformation 20/20 Regional Economic Development Summit The University of Mary Washington will hold the Transformation 20/20 Regional Economic Development Summit on Tuesday, Oct. 29 from 7:30-10:30 a.m. at its Stafford campus. The University will share the results of a regional economic development plan that began last fall and received input from more than 200 business and community
leaders. The plan will direct the region’s economic competitiveness and will provide opportunities for business growth and expansion for the future. The meeting is open to business and community leaders who can RSVP at president.umw.edu/ transformation-2020.
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UMW Leadership Colloquium Reception set The Leadership Colloquium at UMW is celebrating its 20th anniversary with Cynthia Cooper, a Time magazine person of the year, during a reception on Thursday, Nov. 7 at 4:30 p.m. at the UMW Stafford campus. Ms. Cooper, who unraveled accounting deceptions at WorldCom, will be available to sign copies of her book, Extraordinary Circumstances: The Journey of a Corporate Whistleblower, during the networking reception that is open to men and women. Registration is required by Oct. 24 at umw.edu/lcpw/wine-cheesereception.
Greening Your Business Series Andrew Turner of Waste Management led a discussion on developing sustainable business practices during the Sept. 27 installment of the Chamber’s Greening Your Business Series. Marstel-Day, LLC is serving as Emerald Series Sponsor.
Military Affairs Council tour of Naval Support Facility Dahlgren
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Members of the Military Affairs Council (above) visited several technical divisions of Navel Support Facility Dahlgren on Sept. 25.
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OCTOBER, 2013 • ChamberLink
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Listen to Business Link, Saturdays at 9 a.m. on WNTX 1350 AM
Business Link
GUESTS AND TOPICS FOR BUSINESS LINK Date/Time: Oct. 05 – 9 a.m. Topic: Overview of the mortgage industry Guest(s): Pam Hicks with Fidelity Bank Mortgage Date/Time: Oct. 12 – 9 a.m. Topic: A look at the battle against cancer Guest(s): Dr. Michael Porrazzo with Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center
David Koogler with Rappahannock Electric Cooperative gave an overview of the electrical industry during the Sept. 7 edition of Business Link.
Janel Donohue, president of Rappahannock United Way, talked about giving back to the community during a visit for the Sept. 14 program.
Date/Time: Oct. 19 – 9 a.m. Topic: Focus on leadership Guest(s): Maj. Dan Pantaleo, USMC(Ret.) Date/Time: Oct. 26 – 9 a.m. Topic: Update on Naval Support Facility Dahlgren. Guest(s): Capt. Peter Nette, USN, commander, NSASP
Adam Fried, president of Atlantic Builders, Ltd., gave an update on the housing industry during Sept. 21 installation of Business Link.
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Whitney Watts and Sheri Kroskie with the Chamber talked about the upcoming Business Expo on the Sept. 28 edition of Business Link.
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ChamberLink • OCTOBER, 2013
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