hampton roads chamber of commerce summer 2014 · the salvation army ray & joan kroc corps...
TRANSCRIPT
U.S. Senators Warner and Kaine Participate in Chamber Forum
Summer 2014
Message from thePresident & CEO
This summer has been a full one forus, filled with a number of exciting
events, and I trust you have enjoyedthe programming we’ve offered. We’ve
strived to provide you with the ideal balance of information,contacts, advocacy and yes, a little fun. As we head into thefall, you’ll continue to see a lot of activity from your Chamber.Economic prosperity in this region is complex but we have asimple plan: this Chamber will do all that is necessary to setthe conditions that allow businesses to succeed and grow. Mystaff is driven, mapping current members to needed resources,and deliberately demonstrating the value proposition theChamber represents to the entire community of HamptonRoads. Beyond simple quality of service, the growth of ourbusiness is the same as it is for yours – as the Chamber growsour collective voice in the region and in the Commonwealth isstronger and more commanding.
As I did in the last issue of CONTACT, I want to breakdown another one of our organization’s primary goals,highlighting how our work benefits your business: toconsistently and effectively represent businessviewpoints and interests to the public sector.
The second largest Chamber in the Commonwealth, theHampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, has long championedthe interests of regional businesses. Founded in 1801, yourChamber is also one of the oldest chambers in the nation,supporting generation after generation of businesses, keepingpace with the changing face, and the ever growing andchanging needs of business. In the 21st century, the HamptonRoads Chamber continues to be the barometer of regionalbusiness success. Because our member businesses employ aworkforce of approximately 250,000 of the region’s citizens,we advocate legislation, policy and the partnerships necessaryto keep our members in business for years to come.
In this CONTACT, read how the Chamber purposefullyconnects members to elected officials and key decisionmakers locally and nationally. Just like the weather, we keptthe heat on, driving a number of high-profile events focusedon the issues that matter most. For instance, we just recentlyhosted our first Senatorial Luncheon Forum with Mark Warnerand Tim Kaine, providing a unique opportunity to hear fromour two Senators regarding issues impacting your bottomline and the regional strategy.
In cooperation with our partner Business Forward, aWashington, D.C. based trade group, we hosted roundtablediscussions for our members this summer with Gina McCarthy,Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, andDr. David Danielson, Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency
The Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce hosted a public event formembership with both of the Commonwealth’s United States
Senators, the Honorable Mark Warner and the Honorable Tim Kaineon August 28 in Norfolk.
The luncheon forum at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott was a uniqueopportunity for direct access and engagement with two Federallegislators at the same time on their efforts to improve the nation’seconomy and vital matters on the world stage, some of which impactsregional business.
The Senators each spoke on a variety of topics to include armedforces; job creation; regulation of taxation of business; foreign policy;funding our nation’s infrastructure; the budget and national debt, aswell as the impact some legislation has on regional businesses toinclude the Affordable Care Act.
An exuberant Warner focused on the “relentless American optimism” andencouraged diversification as a means of improving the regional economy.In particular, he discussed Modeling and Simulation technology,commercial space, advanced composites and unmanned aerial systems.According to Warner, all are examples of what this business communitycan leverage from the Defense industry into the private sector.
Workforce development and in particular, veterans’ employment, was afeature of both remarks and follow on questions from the audience. Kaine
pointed out that the current unemployment rate for veterans is higher thenational average overall, and must be a top priority.
Following podium remarks, Senators Warner and Kaine fielded questionsfrom an audience of 300 Chamber members. Topics included offshoreenergy, the demand for qualified healthcare workers, internet sales taxesand complicated taxation codes impacting the bottom line.
Responding to a question from Deborah Stearns, past Chair of theHampton Roads Chamber and Senior Vice President of Jones LangLaSalle regarding offshore energy, both senators stressed their continuedsupport for such industry. Additionally, Senator Warner pointed out theneed for royalties.
These and other topics are representative of the kind of dialoguethe Hampton Roads Chamber is fostering on behalf of its membershipbody. Decisions being made in Washington, D.C. on a daily basis arehaving an impact on the Hampton Roads regional economy and ournational security.
Gary McCollum, Chamber trustee and Senior Vice President and GeneralManager for Cox Communications, said, “I really enjoyed the event.Getting two Senators’ schedules together is next to an impossible feat,and the Chamber was able to do it! The timing of the year for this eventwas perfect too.”
Bobby Pearson, Sentara Healthcare and Optima Health, said, “It’sgreat to see our two senators in one place to have an open discussionwith our local representatives as well to see what the issues are forthe Hampton Roads community and to see where we need to gomoving forward.”
“There is much work to do in Washington, but we have two senatorswho are working in the trenches and really looking out for the bestinterests of Virginia,” said attorney Shepelle Watkins-White, theChamber’s Vice-Chair of Governmental Affairs.
“The Hampton Roads Chamber is a business advocate in national, stateand local government and works closely with elected officials to createeconomic prosperity and enhance the quality of life,” said President &CEO Bryan K. Stephens. “Events such as this Senatorial forum allowChamber members to gain access to decision makers and get involvedin business issues that impact the community.”
Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Summer 2014
OFFICERS: Michael Dudley, CHAIR
Susan Blackman, CHAIR-ELECT
Joe Witt, TREASURER
Bryan K. Stephens, PRESIDENT & CEO
CONNECT WITH THE CHAMBER ON THE WEB
THE HAMPTON ROADS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IS A NOT-FOR-PROFIT 501(C)(6) MEMBERSHIP ORGANIZATION.
Visit us at: www.HamptonRoadsChamber.com
Thanks To Our
StrategicPartners
For more information about being a Strategic Partner, contact the membership department at 757-664-2504.
Welcome New Members AnniversariesJoin us in welcoming these new Chamber members. For the most current member directory, visit www.HamptonRoadsChamber.com Congratulations to the following businesses that celebrated
milestone membership anniversaries from May-July 2014
facebook.com/Chamber757
twitter.com/Chamber757
linkedin.comGroup-Hampton RoadsChamber of Commerce
CHAMBER CORNER
In July, Maggie Lowery joined the Chamber’sstaff as an Account Executive. She previouslyowned a consulting business for business/personal development and was known as “TheAbundance Coach.” In addition, Maggie served asExecutive Director of the Chamber of Commercein Emporia, Virginia. She is a graduate of theChesapeake LEAD, John Maxwell and DaleCarnegie programs and is a native of HamptonRoads.
Tommie Pochard, who was with the Chamberfor almost a decade, has returned as a part-timeAccount Executive. Tommie is a long-time Norfolkresident who attended Maury High Schooland Old Dominion University.
Valarie Prenger began serving in July asCoordinator for Development and ProgramDevelopment. She is a recent graduate of BallState University with a Bachelor’s degree inMarketing and Hospitality Management. Originally from Celina, Ohio, Valarie recently movedto Virginia Beach and completed an internshipwith the Virginia Beach Convention Center.
In July, Tim Tomlinson started working withthe Chamber as an Account Executive. He grewup in southern California, where he graduatedcollege. Tim has previously held sales jobs in thefields of insurance and mortgages. After manyyears, Tim made the move to the East Coast.
40 YEARSBridge Trust Title Group
30 YEARSBASF, CorporationThe Moody Law Firm, Inc.Philbrick, Inc.Portsmouth Redevelopment &
Housing AuthoritySuffolk City TreasurerTruGreen
25 YEARSMEB General Contractors, Inc.Richard Kiefner, Northwestern
Mutual Financial NetworkRoof Services Corp.Saint Mary's Home for Disabled
ChildrenVirginia Zoological Society, Inc.
20 YEARSThe Crowne Plaza Hotel Virginia
BeachFarm Fresh, Inc.Fogg’s Seafood T/A Waterman’sGMTIThe Gourmet Gang, Inc.Rubin Communications Group
15 YEARSEverest CollegeFreedom Furniture & ElectronicsOffice Depot #655Old Point National BankPerrel Management Co. Inc.
Phillips Destination Management Services
Renaissance Portsmouth Hotel & Waterfront Conference Ctr.
Vector Security, Inc.
10 YEARSBelkDidlake, Inc.The Lee GroupPilbara Group Inc.Russell’s Heating & Air
Conditioning, IncSam’s ClubSpawar Systems Center, AtlanticWhitlock Brothers, Inc.TruGreen
5 YEARSAmerican Office of Norfolk, LLCThe Broken EggComfort Suites at Harbour ViewHurt & Proffitt, Inc.Jackson Lewis P.C.John T. StoneKRA CorporationMadison JewelersMAP Environmental Inc.National Kidney Foundation
Serving VirginiaSleepy Hole Golf CourseTeklogic Inc.UrsaNav, Inc.Wilbanks, Smith & Thomas AssetManagement, LLC
The ESG Companies is a group ofreal estate acquisition, development,and management firms that hasbeen in operation in Hampton Roadssince the mid-1950s. ESG and itsprincipals have purchased anddeveloped approximately 45,000acres of land, developed over 2.5million square feet of commercialproperty, and participated in all
fields of heavy construction, including military installationsand large-scale commercial endeavors. Signature develop-ments include shopping centers and marinas, hotels andcountry clubs, government facilities and theme parks,residential communities, and more. The highly qualifiedmanagement team has also owned and operated more than100 businesses.
Headquartered in Virginia Beach, Virginia, with additionaloffices located in Florida, ESG’s leadership team takespride in its ability to envision what’s possible and thenexecute that vision in a way that brings lasting value tothe cities and regions in which it operates. The ESGCompanies has grown and diversified over the years, whileremaining focused on the community, its residents andguests. Building on the past while looking toward thefuture, the company continues to evaluate new projects,tackle new challenges, and find innovative ways toenhance quality of life. For more, visit esgco.com.
Andrea M. KilmerPresident and CEO
To advertise, call 757-664-2503.
Bryan K. Stephens
TRUSTEE PROFILE
MAYAloette of Southeast VirginiaBCS Voice & Data SolutionsBizportCorman Construction and Corman Marine
Construction, Inc.Doyle Enterprises, LLCFoss U-Pull ItGI Industrial-Marine, LLCThe Growth Coach of Virginia BeachHoney Baked Ham & CafeHoward & Howard, P.C.Hughes Security Engineering, LLCiFly Va Beach Indoor SkydivingInsco Insurance GroupLiberty Tax Service - Corporate OfficePCS Inc. (Pegasas Communication
Solutions, Inc.)Richard Hill/NAE Federal Credit UnionTapSnapTransformation Consulting, LLC
JUNE9RoundAmerican Road MarkingsAmerican Roads SignsAMF Bowling CenterAnchor Financial GroupAVMAC, LLCColliers InternationalDavis Law, PLCDPG CFOServices, LLC
East Beach CompanyExtra Space Storage - 1583Extra Space Storage - Chesapeake - 1568Extra Space Storage - Chesapeake - 1579Extra Space Storage - Chesapeake - 1580Extra Space Storage - Norfolk - 1571Extra Space Storage - Norfolk - 1577Extra Space Storage - Virginia Beach - 1570Extra Space Storage - Virginia Beach - 1574Extra Space Storage - Virginia Beach - 1582Extra Space Storage - Virginia Beach - 8462Hibu Digital AdvertisingThe Military Child Education CoalitionMonica Curry Consulting LLC - Helping
Grow Your SalesnTelos WirelessOffice of Human AffairsPanera BreadParamount SleepPremier Laser SpaRISE ServicesThe Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc
Corps Center of Hampton RoadsSamaritan House, Inc.Security 101 - Hampton RoadsSensational TeesSmartMouth Brewing Co.Stravitz Fine Art GalleriesTidewater Association of Service
Contractors - (TASC)Youthful Images, LLC
JULY5LinxAll a BloomAmerican Cancer SocietyBeskin and Associates, IncThe Braun Agency, Nationwide InsuranceChartway Federal Credit UnionChesapeake Community Health Center,
(SEVHS)Columbus Executive SuitesConquering QuickBooks, Inc.Dubli RepresentativeThe ESG CompaniesGarden RidgeJ.R. Hoeft Public RelationsKristin Maxwell - Keller WilliamsLendmark Financial Services LLCMain Street Physicians, (SEVHS)Mastering the Positive, LLCMission BBQOffice Max Store 289Office Max Store 1350Office Max/DepotOsen-Hunter Defense SystemsPrism IntegrationsReavesColey PLLCVirginia Beach Family Medical Center,
(SEVHS)Woodforest National BankWorld Class Property Maintenance
Services
Save The
Date
Due to popular demand, the Hampton Roads Chamberof Commerce is extending an offer of $100 to members
who offer qualified referrals that become members. Thepurpose of the Member Referral Program is simple: agrassroots way for you to help shape the membership body.
Numbers matter, and not just to the bottom line. Withsize, comes strength – serving as the voice of the regionalbusiness community, the Hampton Roads Chamber ofCommerce can lobby more effectively when our positionsare backed with the combined credibility of thousandsof businesses in the region. Size also pays off in improvingservices and resources for members, and widens yourbusiness connections exponentially.
To make a Member Referral nomination, complete theeasy online form by clicking on the home page link atHamptonRoadsChamber.com. Terms and Conditionsfor the program are also found online.
A Chamber executive takes it from there – if yourrecommendation becomes a member within 90 days, youearn $100 to use for Chamber programs and services.Making an impact was never so easy.
Gary McCollum (Cox); Steve Fredrickson (PRA Group); Senator Tim Kaine; Senator Mark Warner;Chamber President & CEO Bryan K. Stephens; and Chamber’s Vice-Chair of Governmental AffairsShepelle Watkins-White
Continued on page 2
The Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce’s Hampton RoadsBusiness Political Action Committee (HRBizPAC) uses VA FREE
data to make endorsements on incumbent legislators. Coupledwith feedback from our staff team of lobbyists, and other regionalinput, the PAC strives to evaluate our Hampton Roads delegationand endorse those elected officials who are most consistent inmaking legislative decisions in concert with the interests of thebusiness community.
VA FREE data is well defined and reflects the consensus of thebusiness community across the Commonwealth. Ira Agricola, ExecutiveVice President of the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, hasbeen a member of the VA FREE evaluations committee for morethan a decade. Invited by the organization each year to participatebased on his extensive legislative lobbying experience, he notesthe association does much for the Chamber and Hampton Roadsregion.
“Much of what ultimately gets reported to the business communityis work performed by the evaluation committee,” says Agricola.“The Chamber gets a chance to assess if elected officials upheldpro-business interests. Moreover, the Chamber’s sphere of influenceis enhanced by being a part of the VA FREE evaluations process.”
One of the key components of VA FREE evaluations is the inclusionof committee votes. Often times the more difficult votes from a policyperspective in the legislative session occur in subcommittees andcommittees.
2014 Virginia Senate Evaluations/RankingsJohn Cosgrove 93.1Jeffrey McWaters 92.4Frank Wagner 92.4Thomas K. Norment, Jr. 91.9Kenneth C. Alexander 79.5John C. Miller 79.2Lynwood W. Lewis, Jr. 78.4L. Louise Lucas 76.1Mamie E. Locke 75.3
2014 Virginia House of Delegates Evaluations/Rankings
Barry D. Knight 92.5S. Chris Jones 91.0Ronald A. Villanueva 90.8William R. DeSteph Jr. 90.6Scott W. Taylor 89.4Chrishopher P. Stolle 88.7Glenn R. Davis 88.5Mathew James 88.4James A. Leftwich, Jr. 88.0Robert S. Bloxom, Jr. 86.0Brenda Pogge 85.7Johnny S. Joannou 85.0Algie T. Howell, Jr. 83.5Gordon Helsel 82.8Lionell Spruill, Sr. 80.6Montgomery T. Mason 79.5Mamye E. BaCote 78.9Jeion A. Ward 78.1Richard L. Morris 77.0Daun S. Hester 75.0
2014 General Assembly Incumbent Evaluations
What Could You Do With $100?Referring New Members Can Pay for Your
Own Membership
Thursday, October 2SMALL BUSINESS SUMMIT The Founders Inn & Spa
Tuesday, October 7STATE OF THE REGION ADDRESS (SOUTHSIDE)Norfolk Waterside Marriott
Thursday, October 9STATE OF THE REGION ADDRESS (PENINSULA)Hampton Roads Convention Center
Wednesday, October 15U.S. CONGRESSIONALFORUMHoliday Inn Norfolk – Virginia Beach
Tuesday, October 21MONSTER MEGA MIXER& BUSINESS SHOWCASEVirginia Beach Convention Center
4535 HRCC 9/5/14 2:52 PM Page 1
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Because the military community is such a vital part of our region,the Chamber recognizes the accomplishments of local military
personnel throughout the year. The Chamber held two eventsrecently to honor military personnel from area commands fortheir service and accomplishments.
Nearly 250 members of the business community honored nearly 90local military personnel at the 21st Annual Virginia Beach Armed ForcesAwards Luncheon held at the Virginia Beach Convention Center on July31. All award recipients are stationed at commands in Virginia Beachincluding Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story (JEBLCFS),
Naval Air Station Oceana, andCamp Pendleton. Remarks wereprovided by NAS Oceana’sCommand Master Chief EricClark and Captain ChristopherChope, as well as Mayor WillSessoms and the Chamber’sVirginia Beach Division Chair-Elect Glen Robertson.
On August 8, the Chamber paid tribute to more than 150 servicemembers from the region as a part of its Military RecognitionReception held at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott. Honorees werejoined at the reception by their families, military leadership,elected officials, and businessmen and women from the region.United States Congressman Rob Wittman served as the event’skeynote speaker.
To give our members’ voicesmore reach, the Hampton Roads
Chamber of Commerce is a strategicpartner with Business Forward, a D.C.business trade group, which hasbrought more than 3,000 businessleaders to the White House to briefthe President’s economic advisors.Business Forward has organizedhundreds of local briefings with morethan 450 senior Administration officials, members of Congress,mayors and governors. Business Forward and the HamptonRoads Chamber partnered to host business roundtables with GinaMcCarthy, Administrator for the Environmental Protection Agency,and Dr. David Danielson, Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiencyand Renewable Energy for the U.S. Department of Energy.
On June 4, EPA Administrator McCarthy spoke with local businessleaders about the President's Climate Action Plan, saying, “TheClimate Action Plan acknowledges both the environmental andeconomic challenges and impacts that we are already seeing fromclimate change. And it proposes a number of steps the U.S. cantake and the administration is going to move forward on to bothmitigate the challenge of climate, in other words to try and takeactions to lower carbon pollution that’s fueling the climate andalso to work with communities with the changing climate that wesee. And third, to let the U.S. be a leverage voice and a loudervoice in the global challenge associated with finding an ultimatesolution to the climate change that we’re experiencing.”
The EPA put out a rule to regulate carbon pollution from powerplants because these plants represent the largest source of carbonemissions in the U.S. Chamber Virginia Beach Division ChairCathie France, Chief Public Affairs Officer for the Port of Virginia,said, “I really appreciated the unique experience provided by theChamber to hear from Gina McCarthy about the recent draftregulations proposed to regulate power plants. It was refreshingto hear that the EPA did not take a cookie cutter approach and
plans to work with states to develop their plans. I am hopeful thatas Virginia develops its plan we will continue to strike a balancethat allows us to operate efficiently while keeping our energy costslow.”
On August 1, Dr. David Danielson of the U.S. Department of Energybriefed Chamber members and area business partners about thePresident’s Climate Action Plan, Department of Energy efforts toreduce energy use and ways they could work with the businesscommunity to improve efficiency across the board. The HamptonRoads Chamber maintains its support of efforts to diversify ourenergy sources.
Dr. Danielson said the U.S. Department of Energy has seengreat strides in renewable wind/solar power. He stressedthe importance for the government and private sectors to worktogether, and was eager to take suggestions or provide assistance
to businesses trying to transitionto more sustainable practices.Danielson acknowledged thatbusinesses are worried aboutthe bottom line and typicallyunable to invest in long-termresearch and development,so the government’s role toadvance this technology so asdemand for renewable energycontinues to grow.
Danielson explained the country is on track to double the fuelefficiency of vehicles by 2025. Wind power is now twice asexpensive but in the next decade will be comparable to coal. LEDlights can now be purchased for $10 and are 80% more efficientthat in the past. He also touched on the impact 3D printing willhave on manufacturing and stressed the importance in reducinggreenhouse gas emissions now.
Read more at HamptonRoadsChamber.com.
On June 19, LEAD Hampton Roads, a program of the HamptonRoads Chamber of Commerce, hosted “Bravo!,” its annual gala
celebration of the region and its leadership. More than 500 businessand community leaders gathered at the Norfolk Waterside Marriottfor the reception and dinner honoring four visionary leaders andcelebrating LEAD’s 26th year of serving the region. Morgan Davis,President, TowneBank, served as the evening’s emcee.
Jeffrey Ainslie, President, Ainslie Group, was honored with anational Distinguished Leadership Award presented annually byThe Association of Leadership Programs. The award recognizesthose who have made significant and notable contributions forthe betterment of their communities.
The Julian Hirst Alumni Leadership Award was presented toCathie France, Chief Public Affairs Officer, Port of Virginia. TheJulian Hirst Alumni Leadership Award, named for a former CityManager of Norfolk and a founder of LEAD Hampton Roads,recognizes a graduate of LEAD who exemplifies excellence incommunity, civic and professional leadership.
The Visionary Leader Award was presented to Zack Miller,Founder, Hatch Norfolk. Miller’s vision and vitality translatesacross generations, energizing others to think, create and performin new and powerful ways.
The evening culminated with the graduation of 52 business leaderswho had successfully completed the nine-month Signature leadershipprogram. They now join more than 1,300 other graduates servingthe region.
Thank you to sponsors: TowneBank (Presenting); KITCO FiberOptics (Spirited); and Wilbanks, Smith & Thomas; VandeventerBlack LLP; LifeNet Health; Seventh Point Advertising; AinslieGroup; and Pender & Coward PC (Visionary Sponsors).
Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Summer 2014 Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Summer 2014
Secretary of Commerce and Trade Addresses Chamber Leadership
EPA Administrator and Assistant Secretary withDepartment of Energy Brief Chamber
Nearly 120 business professionals in the defense industryattended a unique briefing, developed specifically for
members of the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce onJune 19. As the single largest economic driver in our reion,the state of the U.S. defense budget is a defining issue in ourlocal business community.
“From Macro to Micro: The 2015 Defense Budget and Beyond”was held at the Chesapeake Conference Center, and provided themost up-to-date information and current trends for the U.Sdefense spending from content experts as it impacts not onlythe national, but state and local economy.
The Chamber partnered with the Hampton Roads Military andFederal Facilities Alliance to bring the Roosevelt Group to theregion. A bipartisan Washington, D.C.-based governmentrelations consulting firm, the Roosevelt Group has clients ina variety of fields including defense, homeland security andintelligence industries.
Budget cuts will still impact the defense industry in HamptonRoads, according to the Roosevelt Group, who predicts contractorswill continue to face longer procurement cycle delays and an“invest to play” requirement, as well as pricing challenges,insourcing and aggressive government negotiations.
However, with growing demands around the globe, and withthe time running out before a FY15 budget must be passed,the Roosevelt Group anticipates that extended ContinuingResolutions will affect the defense industry and the regionaleconomy. Keeping pace with the many priorities of national
from left) Hampton Roads Military and Federal Facilities Alliance Executive Director CraigQuigley; Chamber President & CEO Bryan K. Stephens; Commonwealth Secretary of Veteransand Defense Affairs, John C. Harvey, Jr.; Founder of the Roosevelt Group John Simmons; SeniorAdvisor at The Roosevelt Group Timothy Drumm; and Founder of the Roosevelt GroupChristopher Goode
From Macro to Micro: The 2015 DefenseBudget and Beyond
LEAD Hampton Roads Honors Visionary Leaders and Graduates Class of 2014
LEAD Hampton Roads Class of 2014
security while delivering a smart budget strategy has yieldedmany scenarios, but one may prove as beneficial to the region.
John Simmons and Christopher Goode suggested that a BaseRealignment and Closure Commission, or BRAC, is not somethingto fear, but instead embrace. The region has weathered BRACthreats in the past and will actually stand to gain assets.
Commonwealth Secretary of Veterans and Defense Affairs, John C.Harvey, Jr., also briefed members of the Hampton Roads Chamberat the event on efforts the Commonwealth has undertaken tosupport a growing veteran population in the state.
“I thought the briefing was timely and covered great information anda different industry perspectives as well as areas for industry tofocus on,” said Eileen Gwaltney, a member of the Chamber andTidewater Association of Service Contractors. “Hearing from a groupwho works on Capitol Hill is a great resource for the Chamber.”
Read the full brief at HamptonRoadsChamber.com.
and Renewable Energy. Such opportunities give our members voice inCongress and the White House, creating opportunities for businessleaders to personally advise legislators on job creation and acceleratingthe economy.
Delegates Glenn Davis, Ron Villanueva, Chris Head and Senator JeffreyMcWaters were also on-hand to listen at a Business DevelopmentRoundtable Discussion in July. They, too, were seeking the point of viewof our members asking simply, “What new law or regulation would helpyour business, or what existing law would you like to make go away?”This open and candid dialogue was refreshing and productive and weplan to continue to offer opportunities like this for our members.
Beyond legislation, we have our eye on Governor McAuliffe’s plan tostabilize and improve the economy. Commonwealth Secretary ofCommerce and Trade Maurice Jones sat down with our ExecutiveCommittee, emphasizing the need for us to diversify our economy.Opportunities for diversification can take many forms, to include energy.So the Chamber hosted a timely discussion with Congressman ScottRigell about coastal energy, which he believes offers the kind of diversityour region needs, saying it can emerge as the region’s fourth economicpillar, joining the Port, tourism and the military. We’ll continue to engageRichmond and Washington on the things that matter to HamptonRoads, better positioning our legislative agenda for the next session.
We’ve enjoyed a productive slate of events this summer and it’simportant to underscore why so many public officials and thoughtleaders took part in events with us. They know your Chamber isthe voice of the business community in Hampton Roads. As much aswe got done this summer, we still have much to do this fall. I stronglyencourage you to stay engaged, attending events and following theinformation we share with our membership in a variety of formats. It’san important time for your Chamber and we mean to deliver.
Let us know how we can help your business. Together, we will continueto make Hampton Roads a thriving region to work, live and play.
Commonwealth Secretary of Commerce and Trade, MauriceJones, briefed the Hampton Roads Chamber’s Executive
Committee on June 11.
Jones provided an informative snapshot of the local and stateeconomy, and provided an opportunity for the Chamber’s volunteerleadership to dialogue on economic issues important to the region.Prior to this position, Jones was Publisher of The Virginian-Pilotand 2012 Chair of the Hampton Roads Chamber. In 2012 and2013, he served as Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department ofHousing and Urban Development. Chief among his concerns is theneed to diversify our regional economy, weaning our local economyfrom a dependence on Federal dollars. Jones explained that 15of the top 20 employers in the region are tied to the public sector.
Jones said, “The risks we’ve got in an unbalanced economyhere are just dramatic.” This trend can be seen in northernVirginia as well. Richmond is the most balanced economy inthe Commonwealth with an approximate 50/50 mix of publicversus private sector employers.”
The Commonwealth’s unemployment rate has improved, but stillmuch to overcome, “The country as a whole will generate more jobspost-recession than we lost during the recession. The economy isslowly healing,” said Jones who cautioned, “Virginia is not at thispoint. As of April, Virginia is 122,000 jobs below where we werebefore the recession.”
Jones explained this is because the public sector is our growthengine. The public sector is shedding jobs or remaining stagnant.Virginia’s economy is only growing at 1.7% annually, whileother states are growing more rapidly. The state is workingto invest in the areas believed will foster private sectorgrowth, these include: infrastructure, the right sectors,talent, entrepreneurs, and the business climate. Jonesexplained that even with a modest growth, it’s expected that in thenext 10 years, there will be 1.4 million job opportunities. Part of thisis due to the fact that Virginia has an aging workforce on the cusp ofretirement age.
Chamber Chair Michael Dudley, Secretary Jones; Deborah Stearns, Immediate Past Chair ofthe Chamber; and Chamber President & CEO Bryan K. Stephens
EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy and Chamber President & CEO Bryan K. Stephens
Dr. David Danielson, Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy forthe U.S. Department of Energy
(from left) Hampton Roads Military and Federal Facilities Alliance Executive Director Craig Quigley;Congressman Rob Wittman and ChamberPresident & CEO Bryan K. Stephens shakehands with honorees
Business Community Honors Local Military
Continued from page 1
Message from the President & CEO
Morgan Davis (right) presents Harvey L. Lindsay, Jr. with the First Citizen of Hampton Roads Award
Phot
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Chu
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4535 HRCC 9/5/14 2:52 PM Page 2
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Because the military community is such a vital part of our region,the Chamber recognizes the accomplishments of local military
personnel throughout the year. The Chamber held two eventsrecently to honor military personnel from area commands fortheir service and accomplishments.
Nearly 250 members of the business community honored nearly 90local military personnel at the 21st Annual Virginia Beach Armed ForcesAwards Luncheon held at the Virginia Beach Convention Center on July31. All award recipients are stationed at commands in Virginia Beachincluding Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story (JEBLCFS),
Naval Air Station Oceana, andCamp Pendleton. Remarks wereprovided by NAS Oceana’sCommand Master Chief EricClark and Captain ChristopherChope, as well as Mayor WillSessoms and the Chamber’sVirginia Beach Division Chair-Elect Glen Robertson.
On August 8, the Chamber paid tribute to more than 150 servicemembers from the region as a part of its Military RecognitionReception held at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott. Honorees werejoined at the reception by their families, military leadership,elected officials, and businessmen and women from the region.United States Congressman Rob Wittman served as the event’skeynote speaker.
To give our members’ voicesmore reach, the Hampton Roads
Chamber of Commerce is a strategicpartner with Business Forward, a D.C.business trade group, which hasbrought more than 3,000 businessleaders to the White House to briefthe President’s economic advisors.Business Forward has organizedhundreds of local briefings with morethan 450 senior Administration officials, members of Congress,mayors and governors. Business Forward and the HamptonRoads Chamber partnered to host business roundtables with GinaMcCarthy, Administrator for the Environmental Protection Agency,and Dr. David Danielson, Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiencyand Renewable Energy for the U.S. Department of Energy.
On June 4, EPA Administrator McCarthy spoke with local businessleaders about the President's Climate Action Plan, saying, “TheClimate Action Plan acknowledges both the environmental andeconomic challenges and impacts that we are already seeing fromclimate change. And it proposes a number of steps the U.S. cantake and the administration is going to move forward on to bothmitigate the challenge of climate, in other words to try and takeactions to lower carbon pollution that’s fueling the climate andalso to work with communities with the changing climate that wesee. And third, to let the U.S. be a leverage voice and a loudervoice in the global challenge associated with finding an ultimatesolution to the climate change that we’re experiencing.”
The EPA put out a rule to regulate carbon pollution from powerplants because these plants represent the largest source of carbonemissions in the U.S. Chamber Virginia Beach Division ChairCathie France, Chief Public Affairs Officer for the Port of Virginia,said, “I really appreciated the unique experience provided by theChamber to hear from Gina McCarthy about the recent draftregulations proposed to regulate power plants. It was refreshingto hear that the EPA did not take a cookie cutter approach and
plans to work with states to develop their plans. I am hopeful thatas Virginia develops its plan we will continue to strike a balancethat allows us to operate efficiently while keeping our energy costslow.”
On August 1, Dr. David Danielson of the U.S. Department of Energybriefed Chamber members and area business partners about thePresident’s Climate Action Plan, Department of Energy efforts toreduce energy use and ways they could work with the businesscommunity to improve efficiency across the board. The HamptonRoads Chamber maintains its support of efforts to diversify ourenergy sources.
Dr. Danielson said the U.S. Department of Energy has seengreat strides in renewable wind/solar power. He stressedthe importance for the government and private sectors to worktogether, and was eager to take suggestions or provide assistance
to businesses trying to transitionto more sustainable practices.Danielson acknowledged thatbusinesses are worried aboutthe bottom line and typicallyunable to invest in long-termresearch and development,so the government’s role toadvance this technology so asdemand for renewable energycontinues to grow.
Danielson explained the country is on track to double the fuelefficiency of vehicles by 2025. Wind power is now twice asexpensive but in the next decade will be comparable to coal. LEDlights can now be purchased for $10 and are 80% more efficientthat in the past. He also touched on the impact 3D printing willhave on manufacturing and stressed the importance in reducinggreenhouse gas emissions now.
Read more at HamptonRoadsChamber.com.
On June 19, LEAD Hampton Roads, a program of the HamptonRoads Chamber of Commerce, hosted “Bravo!,” its annual gala
celebration of the region and its leadership. More than 500 businessand community leaders gathered at the Norfolk Waterside Marriottfor the reception and dinner honoring four visionary leaders andcelebrating LEAD’s 26th year of serving the region. Morgan Davis,President, TowneBank, served as the evening’s emcee.
Jeffrey Ainslie, President, Ainslie Group, was honored with anational Distinguished Leadership Award presented annually byThe Association of Leadership Programs. The award recognizesthose who have made significant and notable contributions forthe betterment of their communities.
The Julian Hirst Alumni Leadership Award was presented toCathie France, Chief Public Affairs Officer, Port of Virginia. TheJulian Hirst Alumni Leadership Award, named for a former CityManager of Norfolk and a founder of LEAD Hampton Roads,recognizes a graduate of LEAD who exemplifies excellence incommunity, civic and professional leadership.
The Visionary Leader Award was presented to Zack Miller,Founder, Hatch Norfolk. Miller’s vision and vitality translatesacross generations, energizing others to think, create and performin new and powerful ways.
The evening culminated with the graduation of 52 business leaderswho had successfully completed the nine-month Signature leadershipprogram. They now join more than 1,300 other graduates servingthe region.
Thank you to sponsors: TowneBank (Presenting); KITCO FiberOptics (Spirited); and Wilbanks, Smith & Thomas; VandeventerBlack LLP; LifeNet Health; Seventh Point Advertising; AinslieGroup; and Pender & Coward PC (Visionary Sponsors).
Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Summer 2014 Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Summer 2014
Secretary of Commerce and Trade Addresses Chamber Leadership
EPA Administrator and Assistant Secretary withDepartment of Energy Brief Chamber
Nearly 120 business professionals in the defense industryattended a unique briefing, developed specifically for
members of the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce onJune 19. As the single largest economic driver in our reion,the state of the U.S. defense budget is a defining issue in ourlocal business community.
“From Macro to Micro: The 2015 Defense Budget and Beyond”was held at the Chesapeake Conference Center, and provided themost up-to-date information and current trends for the U.Sdefense spending from content experts as it impacts not onlythe national, but state and local economy.
The Chamber partnered with the Hampton Roads Military andFederal Facilities Alliance to bring the Roosevelt Group to theregion. A bipartisan Washington, D.C.-based governmentrelations consulting firm, the Roosevelt Group has clients ina variety of fields including defense, homeland security andintelligence industries.
Budget cuts will still impact the defense industry in HamptonRoads, according to the Roosevelt Group, who predicts contractorswill continue to face longer procurement cycle delays and an“invest to play” requirement, as well as pricing challenges,insourcing and aggressive government negotiations.
However, with growing demands around the globe, and withthe time running out before a FY15 budget must be passed,the Roosevelt Group anticipates that extended ContinuingResolutions will affect the defense industry and the regionaleconomy. Keeping pace with the many priorities of national
from left) Hampton Roads Military and Federal Facilities Alliance Executive Director CraigQuigley; Chamber President & CEO Bryan K. Stephens; Commonwealth Secretary of Veteransand Defense Affairs, John C. Harvey, Jr.; Founder of the Roosevelt Group John Simmons; SeniorAdvisor at The Roosevelt Group Timothy Drumm; and Founder of the Roosevelt GroupChristopher Goode
From Macro to Micro: The 2015 DefenseBudget and Beyond
LEAD Hampton Roads Honors Visionary Leaders and Graduates Class of 2014
LEAD Hampton Roads Class of 2014
security while delivering a smart budget strategy has yieldedmany scenarios, but one may prove as beneficial to the region.
John Simmons and Christopher Goode suggested that a BaseRealignment and Closure Commission, or BRAC, is not somethingto fear, but instead embrace. The region has weathered BRACthreats in the past and will actually stand to gain assets.
Commonwealth Secretary of Veterans and Defense Affairs, John C.Harvey, Jr., also briefed members of the Hampton Roads Chamberat the event on efforts the Commonwealth has undertaken tosupport a growing veteran population in the state.
“I thought the briefing was timely and covered great information anda different industry perspectives as well as areas for industry tofocus on,” said Eileen Gwaltney, a member of the Chamber andTidewater Association of Service Contractors. “Hearing from a groupwho works on Capitol Hill is a great resource for the Chamber.”
Read the full brief at HamptonRoadsChamber.com.
and Renewable Energy. Such opportunities give our members voice inCongress and the White House, creating opportunities for businessleaders to personally advise legislators on job creation and acceleratingthe economy.
Delegates Glenn Davis, Ron Villanueva, Chris Head and Senator JeffreyMcWaters were also on-hand to listen at a Business DevelopmentRoundtable Discussion in July. They, too, were seeking the point of viewof our members asking simply, “What new law or regulation would helpyour business, or what existing law would you like to make go away?”This open and candid dialogue was refreshing and productive and weplan to continue to offer opportunities like this for our members.
Beyond legislation, we have our eye on Governor McAuliffe’s plan tostabilize and improve the economy. Commonwealth Secretary ofCommerce and Trade Maurice Jones sat down with our ExecutiveCommittee, emphasizing the need for us to diversify our economy.Opportunities for diversification can take many forms, to include energy.So the Chamber hosted a timely discussion with Congressman ScottRigell about coastal energy, which he believes offers the kind of diversityour region needs, saying it can emerge as the region’s fourth economicpillar, joining the Port, tourism and the military. We’ll continue to engageRichmond and Washington on the things that matter to HamptonRoads, better positioning our legislative agenda for the next session.
We’ve enjoyed a productive slate of events this summer and it’simportant to underscore why so many public officials and thoughtleaders took part in events with us. They know your Chamber isthe voice of the business community in Hampton Roads. As much aswe got done this summer, we still have much to do this fall. I stronglyencourage you to stay engaged, attending events and following theinformation we share with our membership in a variety of formats. It’san important time for your Chamber and we mean to deliver.
Let us know how we can help your business. Together, we will continueto make Hampton Roads a thriving region to work, live and play.
Commonwealth Secretary of Commerce and Trade, MauriceJones, briefed the Hampton Roads Chamber’s Executive
Committee on June 11.
Jones provided an informative snapshot of the local and stateeconomy, and provided an opportunity for the Chamber’s volunteerleadership to dialogue on economic issues important to the region.Prior to this position, Jones was Publisher of The Virginian-Pilotand 2012 Chair of the Hampton Roads Chamber. In 2012 and2013, he served as Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department ofHousing and Urban Development. Chief among his concerns is theneed to diversify our regional economy, weaning our local economyfrom a dependence on Federal dollars. Jones explained that 15of the top 20 employers in the region are tied to the public sector.
Jones said, “The risks we’ve got in an unbalanced economyhere are just dramatic.” This trend can be seen in northernVirginia as well. Richmond is the most balanced economy inthe Commonwealth with an approximate 50/50 mix of publicversus private sector employers.”
The Commonwealth’s unemployment rate has improved, but stillmuch to overcome, “The country as a whole will generate more jobspost-recession than we lost during the recession. The economy isslowly healing,” said Jones who cautioned, “Virginia is not at thispoint. As of April, Virginia is 122,000 jobs below where we werebefore the recession.”
Jones explained this is because the public sector is our growthengine. The public sector is shedding jobs or remaining stagnant.Virginia’s economy is only growing at 1.7% annually, whileother states are growing more rapidly. The state is workingto invest in the areas believed will foster private sectorgrowth, these include: infrastructure, the right sectors,talent, entrepreneurs, and the business climate. Jonesexplained that even with a modest growth, it’s expected that in thenext 10 years, there will be 1.4 million job opportunities. Part of thisis due to the fact that Virginia has an aging workforce on the cusp ofretirement age.
Chamber Chair Michael Dudley, Secretary Jones; Deborah Stearns, Immediate Past Chair ofthe Chamber; and Chamber President & CEO Bryan K. Stephens
EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy and Chamber President & CEO Bryan K. Stephens
Dr. David Danielson, Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy forthe U.S. Department of Energy
(from left) Hampton Roads Military and Federal Facilities Alliance Executive Director Craig Quigley;Congressman Rob Wittman and ChamberPresident & CEO Bryan K. Stephens shakehands with honorees
Business Community Honors Local Military
Continued from page 1
Message from the President & CEO
Morgan Davis (right) presents Harvey L. Lindsay, Jr. with the First Citizen of Hampton Roads Award
Phot
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U.S. Senators Warner and Kaine Participate in Chamber Forum
Summer 2014
Message from thePresident & CEO
This summer has been a full one forus, filled with a number of exciting
events, and I trust you have enjoyedthe programming we’ve offered. We’ve
strived to provide you with the ideal balance of information,contacts, advocacy and yes, a little fun. As we head into thefall, you’ll continue to see a lot of activity from your Chamber.Economic prosperity in this region is complex but we have asimple plan: this Chamber will do all that is necessary to setthe conditions that allow businesses to succeed and grow. Mystaff is driven, mapping current members to needed resources,and deliberately demonstrating the value proposition theChamber represents to the entire community of HamptonRoads. Beyond simple quality of service, the growth of ourbusiness is the same as it is for yours – as the Chamber growsour collective voice in the region and in the Commonwealth isstronger and more commanding.
As I did in the last issue of CONTACT, I want to breakdown another one of our organization’s primary goals,highlighting how our work benefits your business: toconsistently and effectively represent businessviewpoints and interests to the public sector.
The second largest Chamber in the Commonwealth, theHampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, has long championedthe interests of regional businesses. Founded in 1801, yourChamber is also one of the oldest chambers in the nation,supporting generation after generation of businesses, keepingpace with the changing face, and the ever growing andchanging needs of business. In the 21st century, the HamptonRoads Chamber continues to be the barometer of regionalbusiness success. Because our member businesses employ aworkforce of approximately 250,000 of the region’s citizens,we advocate legislation, policy and the partnerships necessaryto keep our members in business for years to come.
In this CONTACT, read how the Chamber purposefullyconnects members to elected officials and key decisionmakers locally and nationally. Just like the weather, we keptthe heat on, driving a number of high-profile events focusedon the issues that matter most. For instance, we just recentlyhosted our first Senatorial Luncheon Forum with Mark Warnerand Tim Kaine, providing a unique opportunity to hear fromour two Senators regarding issues impacting your bottomline and the regional strategy.
In cooperation with our partner Business Forward, aWashington, D.C. based trade group, we hosted roundtablediscussions for our members this summer with Gina McCarthy,Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, andDr. David Danielson, Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency
The Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce hosted a public event formembership with both of the Commonwealth’s United States
Senators, the Honorable Mark Warner and the Honorable Tim Kaineon August 28 in Norfolk.
The luncheon forum at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott was a uniqueopportunity for direct access and engagement with two Federallegislators at the same time on their efforts to improve the nation’seconomy and vital matters on the world stage, some of which impactsregional business.
The Senators each spoke on a variety of topics to include armedforces; job creation; regulation of taxation of business; foreign policy;funding our nation’s infrastructure; the budget and national debt, aswell as the impact some legislation has on regional businesses toinclude the Affordable Care Act.
An exuberant Warner focused on the “relentless American optimism” andencouraged diversification as a means of improving the regional economy.In particular, he discussed Modeling and Simulation technology,commercial space, advanced composites and unmanned aerial systems.According to Warner, all are examples of what this business communitycan leverage from the Defense industry into the private sector.
Workforce development and in particular, veterans’ employment, was afeature of both remarks and follow on questions from the audience. Kaine
pointed out that the current unemployment rate for veterans is higher thenational average overall, and must be a top priority.
Following podium remarks, Senators Warner and Kaine fielded questionsfrom an audience of 300 Chamber members. Topics included offshoreenergy, the demand for qualified healthcare workers, internet sales taxesand complicated taxation codes impacting the bottom line.
Responding to a question from Deborah Stearns, past Chair of theHampton Roads Chamber and Senior Vice President of Jones LangLaSalle regarding offshore energy, both senators stressed their continuedsupport for such industry. Additionally, Senator Warner pointed out theneed for royalties.
These and other topics are representative of the kind of dialoguethe Hampton Roads Chamber is fostering on behalf of its membershipbody. Decisions being made in Washington, D.C. on a daily basis arehaving an impact on the Hampton Roads regional economy and ournational security.
Gary McCollum, Chamber trustee and Senior Vice President and GeneralManager for Cox Communications, said, “I really enjoyed the event.Getting two Senators’ schedules together is next to an impossible feat,and the Chamber was able to do it! The timing of the year for this eventwas perfect too.”
Bobby Pearson, Sentara Healthcare and Optima Health, said, “It’sgreat to see our two senators in one place to have an open discussionwith our local representatives as well to see what the issues are forthe Hampton Roads community and to see where we need to gomoving forward.”
“There is much work to do in Washington, but we have two senatorswho are working in the trenches and really looking out for the bestinterests of Virginia,” said attorney Shepelle Watkins-White, theChamber’s Vice-Chair of Governmental Affairs.
“The Hampton Roads Chamber is a business advocate in national, stateand local government and works closely with elected officials to createeconomic prosperity and enhance the quality of life,” said President &CEO Bryan K. Stephens. “Events such as this Senatorial forum allowChamber members to gain access to decision makers and get involvedin business issues that impact the community.”
Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Summer 2014
OFFICERS: Michael Dudley, CHAIR
Susan Blackman, CHAIR-ELECT
Joe Witt, TREASURER
Bryan K. Stephens, PRESIDENT & CEO
CONNECT WITH THE CHAMBER ON THE WEB
THE HAMPTON ROADS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IS A NOT-FOR-PROFIT 501(C)(6) MEMBERSHIP ORGANIZATION.
Visit us at: www.HamptonRoadsChamber.com
Thanks To Our
StrategicPartners
For more information about being a Strategic Partner, contact the membership department at 757-664-2504.
Welcome New Members AnniversariesJoin us in welcoming these new Chamber members. For the most current member directory, visit www.HamptonRoadsChamber.com Congratulations to the following businesses that celebrated
milestone membership anniversaries from May-July 2014
facebook.com/Chamber757
twitter.com/Chamber757
linkedin.comGroup-Hampton RoadsChamber of Commerce
CHAMBER CORNER
In July, Maggie Lowery joined the Chamber’sstaff as an Account Executive. She previouslyowned a consulting business for business/personal development and was known as “TheAbundance Coach.” In addition, Maggie served asExecutive Director of the Chamber of Commercein Emporia, Virginia. She is a graduate of theChesapeake LEAD, John Maxwell and DaleCarnegie programs and is a native of HamptonRoads.
Tommie Pochard, who was with the Chamberfor almost a decade, has returned as a part-timeAccount Executive. Tommie is a long-time Norfolkresident who attended Maury High Schooland Old Dominion University.
Valarie Prenger began serving in July asCoordinator for Development and ProgramDevelopment. She is a recent graduate of BallState University with a Bachelor’s degree inMarketing and Hospitality Management. Originally from Celina, Ohio, Valarie recently movedto Virginia Beach and completed an internshipwith the Virginia Beach Convention Center.
In July, Tim Tomlinson started working withthe Chamber as an Account Executive. He grewup in southern California, where he graduatedcollege. Tim has previously held sales jobs in thefields of insurance and mortgages. After manyyears, Tim made the move to the East Coast.
40 YEARSBridge Trust Title Group
30 YEARSBASF, CorporationThe Moody Law Firm, Inc.Philbrick, Inc.Portsmouth Redevelopment &
Housing AuthoritySuffolk City TreasurerTruGreen
25 YEARSMEB General Contractors, Inc.Richard Kiefner, Northwestern
Mutual Financial NetworkRoof Services Corp.Saint Mary's Home for Disabled
ChildrenVirginia Zoological Society, Inc.
20 YEARSThe Crowne Plaza Hotel Virginia
BeachFarm Fresh, Inc.Fogg’s Seafood T/A Waterman’sGMTIThe Gourmet Gang, Inc.Rubin Communications Group
15 YEARSEverest CollegeFreedom Furniture & ElectronicsOffice Depot #655Old Point National BankPerrel Management Co. Inc.
Phillips Destination Management Services
Renaissance Portsmouth Hotel & Waterfront Conference Ctr.
Vector Security, Inc.
10 YEARSBelkDidlake, Inc.The Lee GroupPilbara Group Inc.Russell’s Heating & Air
Conditioning, IncSam’s ClubSpawar Systems Center, AtlanticWhitlock Brothers, Inc.TruGreen
5 YEARSAmerican Office of Norfolk, LLCThe Broken EggComfort Suites at Harbour ViewHurt & Proffitt, Inc.Jackson Lewis P.C.John T. StoneKRA CorporationMadison JewelersMAP Environmental Inc.National Kidney Foundation
Serving VirginiaSleepy Hole Golf CourseTeklogic Inc.UrsaNav, Inc.Wilbanks, Smith & Thomas AssetManagement, LLC
The ESG Companies is a group ofreal estate acquisition, development,and management firms that hasbeen in operation in Hampton Roadssince the mid-1950s. ESG and itsprincipals have purchased anddeveloped approximately 45,000acres of land, developed over 2.5million square feet of commercialproperty, and participated in all
fields of heavy construction, including military installationsand large-scale commercial endeavors. Signature develop-ments include shopping centers and marinas, hotels andcountry clubs, government facilities and theme parks,residential communities, and more. The highly qualifiedmanagement team has also owned and operated more than100 businesses.
Headquartered in Virginia Beach, Virginia, with additionaloffices located in Florida, ESG’s leadership team takespride in its ability to envision what’s possible and thenexecute that vision in a way that brings lasting value tothe cities and regions in which it operates. The ESGCompanies has grown and diversified over the years, whileremaining focused on the community, its residents andguests. Building on the past while looking toward thefuture, the company continues to evaluate new projects,tackle new challenges, and find innovative ways toenhance quality of life. For more, visit esgco.com.
Andrea M. KilmerPresident and CEO
To advertise, call 757-664-2503.
Bryan K. Stephens
TRUSTEE PROFILE
MAYAloette of Southeast VirginiaBCS Voice & Data SolutionsBizportCorman Construction and Corman Marine
Construction, Inc.Doyle Enterprises, LLCFoss U-Pull ItGI Industrial-Marine, LLCThe Growth Coach of Virginia BeachHoney Baked Ham & CafeHoward & Howard, P.C.Hughes Security Engineering, LLCiFly Va Beach Indoor SkydivingInsco Insurance GroupLiberty Tax Service - Corporate OfficePCS Inc. (Pegasas Communication
Solutions, Inc.)Richard Hill/NAE Federal Credit UnionTapSnapTransformation Consulting, LLC
JUNE9RoundAmerican Road MarkingsAmerican Roads SignsAMF Bowling CenterAnchor Financial GroupAVMAC, LLCColliers InternationalDavis Law, PLCDPG CFOServices, LLC
East Beach CompanyExtra Space Storage - 1583Extra Space Storage - Chesapeake - 1568Extra Space Storage - Chesapeake - 1579Extra Space Storage - Chesapeake - 1580Extra Space Storage - Norfolk - 1571Extra Space Storage - Norfolk - 1577Extra Space Storage - Virginia Beach - 1570Extra Space Storage - Virginia Beach - 1574Extra Space Storage - Virginia Beach - 1582Extra Space Storage - Virginia Beach - 8462Hibu Digital AdvertisingThe Military Child Education CoalitionMonica Curry Consulting LLC - Helping
Grow Your SalesnTelos WirelessOffice of Human AffairsPanera BreadParamount SleepPremier Laser SpaRISE ServicesThe Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc
Corps Center of Hampton RoadsSamaritan House, Inc.Security 101 - Hampton RoadsSensational TeesSmartMouth Brewing Co.Stravitz Fine Art GalleriesTidewater Association of Service
Contractors - (TASC)Youthful Images, LLC
JULY5LinxAll a BloomAmerican Cancer SocietyBeskin and Associates, IncThe Braun Agency, Nationwide InsuranceChartway Federal Credit UnionChesapeake Community Health Center,
(SEVHS)Columbus Executive SuitesConquering QuickBooks, Inc.Dubli RepresentativeThe ESG CompaniesGarden RidgeJ.R. Hoeft Public RelationsKristin Maxwell - Keller WilliamsLendmark Financial Services LLCMain Street Physicians, (SEVHS)Mastering the Positive, LLCMission BBQOffice Max Store 289Office Max Store 1350Office Max/DepotOsen-Hunter Defense SystemsPrism IntegrationsReavesColey PLLCVirginia Beach Family Medical Center,
(SEVHS)Woodforest National BankWorld Class Property Maintenance
Services
Save The
Date
Due to popular demand, the Hampton Roads Chamberof Commerce is extending an offer of $100 to members
who offer qualified referrals that become members. Thepurpose of the Member Referral Program is simple: agrassroots way for you to help shape the membership body.
Numbers matter, and not just to the bottom line. Withsize, comes strength – serving as the voice of the regionalbusiness community, the Hampton Roads Chamber ofCommerce can lobby more effectively when our positionsare backed with the combined credibility of thousandsof businesses in the region. Size also pays off in improvingservices and resources for members, and widens yourbusiness connections exponentially.
To make a Member Referral nomination, complete theeasy online form by clicking on the home page link atHamptonRoadsChamber.com. Terms and Conditionsfor the program are also found online.
A Chamber executive takes it from there – if yourrecommendation becomes a member within 90 days, youearn $100 to use for Chamber programs and services.Making an impact was never so easy.
Gary McCollum (Cox); Steve Fredrickson (PRA Group); Senator Tim Kaine; Senator Mark Warner;Chamber President & CEO Bryan K. Stephens; and Chamber’s Vice-Chair of Governmental AffairsShepelle Watkins-White
Continued on page 2
The Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce’s Hampton RoadsBusiness Political Action Committee (HRBizPAC) uses VA FREE
data to make endorsements on incumbent legislators. Coupledwith feedback from our staff team of lobbyists, and other regionalinput, the PAC strives to evaluate our Hampton Roads delegationand endorse those elected officials who are most consistent inmaking legislative decisions in concert with the interests of thebusiness community.
VA FREE data is well defined and reflects the consensus of thebusiness community across the Commonwealth. Ira Agricola, ExecutiveVice President of the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, hasbeen a member of the VA FREE evaluations committee for morethan a decade. Invited by the organization each year to participatebased on his extensive legislative lobbying experience, he notesthe association does much for the Chamber and Hampton Roadsregion.
“Much of what ultimately gets reported to the business communityis work performed by the evaluation committee,” says Agricola.“The Chamber gets a chance to assess if elected officials upheldpro-business interests. Moreover, the Chamber’s sphere of influenceis enhanced by being a part of the VA FREE evaluations process.”
One of the key components of VA FREE evaluations is the inclusionof committee votes. Often times the more difficult votes from a policyperspective in the legislative session occur in subcommittees andcommittees.
2014 Virginia Senate Evaluations/RankingsJohn Cosgrove 93.1Jeffrey McWaters 92.4Frank Wagner 92.4Thomas K. Norment, Jr. 91.9Kenneth C. Alexander 79.5John C. Miller 79.2Lynwood W. Lewis, Jr. 78.4L. Louise Lucas 76.1Mamie E. Locke 75.3
2014 Virginia House of Delegates Evaluations/Rankings
Barry D. Knight 92.5S. Chris Jones 91.0Ronald A. Villanueva 90.8William R. DeSteph Jr. 90.6Scott W. Taylor 89.4Chrishopher P. Stolle 88.7Glenn R. Davis 88.5Mathew James 88.4James A. Leftwich, Jr. 88.0Robert S. Bloxom, Jr. 86.0Brenda Pogge 85.7Johnny S. Joannou 85.0Algie T. Howell, Jr. 83.5Gordon Helsel 82.8Lionell Spruill, Sr. 80.6Montgomery T. Mason 79.5Mamye E. BaCote 78.9Jeion A. Ward 78.1Richard L. Morris 77.0Daun S. Hester 75.0
2014 General Assembly Incumbent Evaluations
What Could You Do With $100?Referring New Members Can Pay for Your
Own Membership
Thursday, October 2SMALL BUSINESS SUMMIT The Founders Inn & Spa
Tuesday, October 7STATE OF THE REGION ADDRESS (SOUTHSIDE)Norfolk Waterside Marriott
Thursday, October 9STATE OF THE REGION ADDRESS (PENINSULA)Hampton Roads Convention Center
Wednesday, October 15U.S. CONGRESSIONALFORUMHoliday Inn Norfolk – Virginia Beach
Tuesday, October 21MONSTER MEGA MIXER& BUSINESS SHOWCASEVirginia Beach Convention Center
4535 HRCC 9/5/14 2:52 PM Page 1