hampton roads chamber of commerce winter 2014...kraft foods, planters starr motors, inc. tidewater...

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The Voice of Business for Hampton Roads - General Assembly Update Winter 2014 Message from the New President & CEO I t is a distinct honor to have been chosen as the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce’s new President & CEO. I am both humbled and excited at the privilege of working for you as we make Hampton Roads the best pro-business community in the Nation. Having both a military and business background, I understand the unique challenges, concerns, and issues facing you and our region and I am working diligently with the Chamber staff, volunteers and board of directors to make the Hampton Roads Chamber the most relevant, informative, and impactful as possible, while providing tangible value to our business members and the community. It has been said the quality of an organization is in direct proportion to its commitment to excellence. You can be certain the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce is totally committed to excellence in everything we do. For those of you who have been members of this Chamber you will see a new and revised organization as we refocus our efforts and strive everyday to exceed expectations. For those of you who are not members, JOIN US! We won’t let you down and will show you a definitive return on your membership investment. I would like to share our new Mission, Vision, Values, and Goals. Our Mission is who we are and what we do. Our Vision is who we want to be and where we are heading as an organization. Our Values are our beliefs and guidepost for conducting business every day. And our goals are what we are going to achieve this year. Mission: The Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce is the Region’s premier business organization; helping our members succeed, driving regional economic growth and enhancing the quality of life of our community’s residents. Vision: The Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce will be the recognized national leader in ensuring a regional pro- business environment, strengthening a regional economy, and enhancing its members’ success, growth and vitality. Values: Excellence – Selfless Service – Integrity – Commitment – Leadership – Loyalty – Advocacy – Diversity Goals 1. Provide tangible ROI to our members through programs and services which enhance their ability to succeed and grow their business. 2. Consistently and effectively represent business viewpoints and interests to the public sector. 3. Develop and improve the economy and quality of life in the region. 4. Operate the Chamber in an effective and efficient manner to ensure its long-term viability to the region and growth. Again, it is a distinct honor to serve this great region. I look forward to working with you as together we make the Hampton Roads region a national model for an amazing place to live, work and run a business. T he 2014 General Assembly opened on January 8 for a 60-day session with a constitutionally mandated requirement of adopting a balanced two-year budget for the Commonwealth. Several top priorities emerged as the session moved to “crossover” where bills must be considered by the Chamber in which they were introduced before being considered in the House of Delegates or Virginia Senate and moving to the Governor’s desk for signature. House and Senate committees made bi-partisan ethics reform a top priority. Legislation has emerged that strengthens Virginia’s laws and provides a framework for all state employees and elected officials. Another key priority for the Hampton Roads region is transportation funding. Legislation that establishes a Hampton Roads Regional Transportation Authority appears headed for passage. The newly established Authority would have the ability to set tolls, sell bonds and establish priorities for our market. Local and state elected officials would populate the new decision making body. The most challenging legislative policy issue facing the 2014 General Assembly is the question of Medicaid expansion and reform. The Supreme Court of the United States provided individual states with the option to participate in Medicaid expansion through the Affordable Care Act. The business community supports a private managed care option for Medicaid and a broad coalition of business interests are urging the Commonwealth’s lawmakers to expand coverage. Another significant development in the General Assembly occurred this year after two special elections were held to fill the seats formerly occupied by Lt. Governor Ralph Northam and Attorney General Mark Herring. Once the election results were certified, Democrats took control of the Virginia Senate by adopting new rules and replacing Republican committee chairs with Democratic Senators. With all three of the state-wide elected officials and control of the Virginia Senate, Democrats will have a significant impact on public policy decisions in the Commonwealth. However, with Republicans solidly in control in the House of Delegates, there are likely to be a number of partisan legislative battles prior to adjournment in March. Capitol Bryan K. Stephens (from left) Michael Dudley, Chamber’s Chair; Deborah Butler, Norfolk Southern Corp.; John Matson, TowneBank; John Barrett, Bon Secours Hampton Roads; Mayor Paul Fraim; Bryan Stephens, Chamber‘s President & CEO; Billy King, Chamber’s Norfolk Division Chair; and CDR Denis Cox, Naval Station Norfolk T he Hampton Roads Chamber’s annual State of the City series kicked off with the Norfolk address on February 21. A sold out crowd of 1,000 business and community leaders heard Norfolk Mayor Paul Fraim provide an update on the city’s key business development initiatives, municipal progress updates and opportunities. Some accolades Norfolk has received recently are being selected as an “All America City” by the National Civic League. Standard & Poor upgraded the city’s bond rating from AA to AA+, its first upgrade in 50 years. In addition, RealtyTrac named downtown’s 23510 zip code as the third-best hipster neighborhood in the nation. Norfolk’s unemployment has fallen to 6.3%, a full percent decline from February 2013. Crime dropped 4% to continue a decade-long trend. Fraim said, “Development projects announced, underway or delivered in the past 18 months represent $1.3 billion dollars of investment, and more than 3,000 jobs.” The city finalized an agreement with The Cordish Company for the renovation and reinvention of Waterside. This project will create hundreds of new jobs and is projected to generate an estimated $93 million in direct revenue to the city over 30 years. “Thanks to the partnership between the city and Gold Key PHR Hotels, we expect to be under construction this summer on a 23-story full-service hotel and conference center fronting Main, Granby and Plume streets,” the mayor explained. The developer, Bruce Thompson, plans to open in a little more than two years. He added, “It will create 250 new jobs and make us competitive with the D.C. area, Charlotte and Raleigh-Durham.” Carnival Cruise Lines recently decided to resume cruises out of Norfolk next fall. Mayor Fraim said, “I want to thank Governor McAuliffe for helping make this happen.” The city is working with the Simon Property Group to develop a portion of Lake Wright Golf Course into a Premium Outlet Center. Fraim said, “The $75 million project will bring 120 upscale shops to the city and create 300 construction jobs and return an estimated $4.2 million dollars annually in tax revenue.” City Council approved a letter of intent for sale of 30 acres of the Lake Wright Golf Course, land Norfolk owns in Virginia Beach, to a joint venture between Simon and S.L. Nusbaum. It will constitute Phase 2 of a larger plan, forecasted to be a $50 million development. Other new projects in the city include converting the Trader Building on Plume Street into high-end apartments; Ghent Station, a $17.5 million mixed-use development with a Fresh Market grocery store and a Bon Secours medical office building. Regarding transportation, he said, “Construction is well underway on the largest regional transportation project in a generation – a second Midtown Tunnel. When finished in three years, round-trip travel time between Norfolk and Portsmouth will be cut by 30 minutes.” Passenger rail service was added to Norfolk last year and in December, an intercity passenger rail service station opened at Harbor Park. Ridership of the Tide light rail continues to increase and he said, “After two and a half years of operation, light rail has proven to be a safe, reliable and on-time mode of transportation that should be expanded to Virginia Beach and elsewhere in the region.” 1,000 Attend Norfolk State of the City Address Join the Chamber for the remaining State of the City events taking place through May. Register at Events.HamptonRoadsChamber.com.

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Page 1: Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Winter 2014...Kraft Foods, Planters Starr Motors, Inc. Tidewater Applicators, Inc. White’s Nursery & Greenhouses, Inc. 25 YEARS Clancy & Theys Construction

The Voice of Business for Hampton Roads - General Assembly Update

Winter 2014

Message from the NewPresident & CEO

It is a distinct honor to have beenchosen as the Hampton Roads

Chamber of Commerce’s new President& CEO. I am both humbled and excitedat the privilege of working for you aswe make Hampton Roads the bestpro-business community in the Nation.Having both a military and business

background, I understand the unique challenges, concerns, andissues facing you and our region and I am working diligentlywith the Chamber staff, volunteers and board of directorsto make the Hampton Roads Chamber the most relevant,informative, and impactful as possible, while providingtangible value to our business members and the community.

It has been said the quality of an organization is in directproportion to its commitment to excellence. You can becertain the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce is totallycommitted to excellence in everything we do. For those ofyou who have been members of this Chamber you will see anew and revised organization as we refocus our efforts andstrive everyday to exceed expectations. For those of you whoare not members, JOIN US! We won’t let you down and willshow you a definitive return on your membership investment.

I would like to share our new Mission, Vision, Values, andGoals. Our Mission is who we are and what we do. OurVision is who we want to be and where we are heading asan organization. Our Values are our beliefs and guidepost forconducting business every day. And our goals are what weare going to achieve this year.

Mission: The Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce isthe Region’s premier business organization; helping ourmembers succeed, driving regional economic growth andenhancing the quality of life of our community’s residents.

Vision: The Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce willbe the recognized national leader in ensuring a regional pro-business environment, strengthening a regional economy,and enhancing its members’ success, growth and vitality.

Values: Excellence – Selfless Service – Integrity – Commitment – Leadership – Loyalty – Advocacy – Diversity

Goals1. Provide tangible ROI to our members through programs and

services which enhance their ability to succeed and growtheir business.

2. Consistently and effectively represent business viewpointsand interests to the public sector.

3. Develop and improve the economy and quality of lifein the region.

4. Operate the Chamber in an effective and efficient mannerto ensure its long-term viability to the region and growth.

Again, it is a distinct honor to serve this great region. Ilook forward to working with you as together we makethe Hampton Roads region a national model for an amazingplace to live, work and run a business.

The 2014 General Assembly opened on January 8 for a 60-daysession with a constitutionally mandated requirement of adopting

a balanced two-year budget for the Commonwealth.

Several top priorities emerged as the session moved to “crossover”where bills must be considered by the Chamber in which they wereintroduced before being considered in the House of Delegates orVirginia Senate and moving to the Governor’s desk for signature.

House and Senate committees made bi-partisan ethics reform a toppriority. Legislation has emerged that strengthens Virginia’s laws andprovides a framework for all state employees and elected officials.

Another key priority for the Hampton Roads region is transportationfunding. Legislation that establishes a Hampton Roads RegionalTransportation Authority appears headed for passage. The newlyestablished Authority would have the ability to set tolls, sell bondsand establish priorities for our market. Local and state elected officialswould populate the new decision making body.

The most challenging legislative policy issue facing the 2014 GeneralAssembly is the question of Medicaid expansion and reform. TheSupreme Court of the United States provided individual states withthe option to participate in Medicaid expansion through the AffordableCare Act. The business community supports a private managed careoption for Medicaid and a broad coalition of business interests areurging the Commonwealth’s lawmakers to expand coverage.

Another significant development in the General Assembly occurredthis year after two special elections were held to fill the seats formerlyoccupied by Lt. Governor Ralph Northam and Attorney General MarkHerring. Once the election results were certified, Democrats tookcontrol of the Virginia Senate by adopting new rules and replacingRepublican committee chairs with Democratic Senators. With allthree of the state-wide elected officials and control of the VirginiaSenate, Democrats will have a significant impact on public policydecisions in the Commonwealth. However, with Republicans solidlyin control in the House of Delegates, there are likely to be a numberof partisan legislative battles prior to adjournment in March.

Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Winter 2014

OFFICERS: Michael Dudley, CHAIR

Susan Blackman, CHAIR-ELECT

Joe Witt, TREASURER

Bryan 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

Save The

Date

For more information about being a Strategic Partner, contact the membership department at 757-664-2504.

NOVEMBER 2013American Red Cross of Southeastern VirginiaArchbell Signs, Inc.Atlantic Orthopaedic SpecialistsAtria Virginia BeachChildren’s HarborClear Channel/WOWI, WKSA, WVMA, WMOVCommunity Outreach CoalitionHurrah PlayersIndigo Productions, IncLegacy Limousine and Luxury CoachesMessage Expansion PartnersThe Pampered Chef/Christina ManiscalcoTIAA-CREFOmni Business Systems-FaxPlusStorybook EventsThirty 7 NorthVinylmint

DECEMBER 2013Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast VirginiaDocutecture LLCFirst VirginiaJM Smucker CompanyMobile Site MamaNewtown Building Supplies, Inc.Phoenix House Mid-AtlanticTriangle Rent A Car

JANUARY 2014Advanced Engineering ConsultantsAffordable Floors, Inc.Andrea Zank dba Liberty Tax ServiceAssurety Title & EscrowAvon - Winifred Gallup, Independent Sales RepresentativeThe Benefit Co.Commonwealth Assisted Living - Georgian Manor Assisted Living

Delany Electrical ContractingDevelopment First, LLCDex Media Inc.First Team KiaHome Paramount Pest ControlIdeal ImageKeith Fabry ReprographicsKirwin Development StrategiesLeverage Capital GroupLJS Enterprises, LLCMedia EastMinor Emergency & Family Care CenterMosaic TileSam Weaver SupplyTactical Office SolutionsVirginia Entrepreneur Law Office PCWSKY-SKY4 TVZB Training Solutions LLC

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 November 2013 - January 2014.

facebook.com/Chamber757

twitter.com/Chamber757

linkedin.comGroup-Hampton RoadsChamber of Commerce

CHAMBER CORNER AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR

Congratulations to Rhonnda Claiborne,Realtor/Associate Broker, KellerWilliams Realty, who was named theChamber’s Ambassador of the Year for2013. Rhonnda began volunteering asan Ambassador in September 2012,attending networking functions andvolunteering at Chamber programs.

When asked how she felt about beingnamed the Ambassador of the Year,Rhonnda responded, “I feel veryexcited and honored, I was not expecting it.” Rhonnda attends theMorning Schmooze, Business AfterHours, the Business Education Series,and many other Chamber events.Rhonnda says that she recommendsmembership with the Chamberfrequently. “I talk about the benefits ofthe chamber because I feel that youhave an opportunity to meet a lot ofbusiness-minded people and youget a chance to build relationships,”she said.

The Ambassador Committee is adiverse group of 15 volunteers whoare dedicated to making a differencein the Chamber and the community.Ambassadors are liaisons betweenthe Chamber and new and existingmembers. For more information aboutthe Committee, call 757-664-2504.

Shirley Core began serving as theExecutive Assistant to the Presidentand CEO in January. Prior to thisposition, Shirley served as ProgramDevelopment Coordinator for theChamber.

Alisa Crider joined the Chamberin February as CommunicationsCoordinator. She is a graduate ofVirginia Wesleyan College andpreviously served as a Communicationsintern at the Chamber. For the pastfour years she has worked in thepublic relations/marketing and legalfields. Alisa was born and raised inHampton Roads.

In January, Maggie Cromwell beganserving as Program DevelopmentCoordinator for the Chamber. Shejoined the Chamber staff in June2012 in the role of Municipal AffairsCoordinator.

Wednesday, April 2 PORTSMOUTH STATE OF THE CITYRenaissance Portsmouth Hotel & Waterfront Conference Center

35 YEARSC. Allan Bamforth, Jr., Engineer-

Surveyor, Ltd.Coldwell Banker Professional,

RealtorsEntercom Communications DBAWWDE, WNVZ, WPTE WVKL

30 YEARSBogue Oil, Inc.Bon Secours Virginia Health

SystemBuilders & Contractors

Exchange, Inc.Cherry Bekaert LLPCrocker Funeral HomeData Business Systems, Inc.Drs. Althouse, Carroll &

Alperin, DDS, Ltd.Holiday Ice, Inc.Kraft Foods, PlantersStarr Motors, Inc.Tidewater Applicators, Inc.White’s Nursery &

Greenhouses, Inc.

25 YEARSClancy & Theys Construction Co.Coverall of VirginiaPatient First Medical CentersProfessional Printing CenterTroutman Sanders LLP

20 YEARSd’ART CenterNetTek, LLC

15 YEARSD.T. Read Steel Co., Inc.Gold Key-PHRKalman & Co., Inc.The Leukemia & Lymphoma

SocietyTriciquar

10 YEARSAthDel Ventures, Inc. dba The

Miles AgencyHampton Roads CommunityHealth Center, Inc.Spawar Systems Center, AtlanticThe Salvation ArmyT. A. Consulting Inc.

5 YEARSA. Reddix & AssociatesClassic Air’s One Hour Heating& Air ConditioningComfort Systems of Virginia, Inc.Enterprise Rent-A-CarLauren V. Wolcott, CPA, P.C.Old Dominion Utility ServicesPestar

WVEC ABC13 and WVEC.comserve the Hampton Roads region ofVirginia (including the “Seven Cities”:Chesapeake, Hampton, NewportNews, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk,and Virginia Beach), and the northeastcorner of North Carolina, including theOuter Banks. 13News Now produces33 hours of live local news and weather

per week, and is a leading provider of digital information throughan expanding portfolio of news and weather applications forsmart phones and tablets, including the award-winning“WeatherCaster” app. The audience looks to WVEC as theleading community-oriented station that most reflects theSpirit of Hampton Roads and northeastern North Carolina.

ABC13 has an advertising product suite that can reach audiencesat all phases of the consumer decision making process. Thestation hones in on its clients’ customers demographically,geographically, and psycho-graphically, using a wide rangeof research and planning tools. They customize televisioncampaigns in Hampton Roads, and as a provider of G/ODigital services ABC13 offers national marketing solutionsincluding search engine marketing, pay-per-click, mobile,social, display, and online reputation management.

To find out more about WVEC ABC13, visit www.wvec.com orcall 757-625-1313.

Brad RamseyGeneral Manager

To advertise, callSarah Lampert at757-664-2503.

Capitol

Bryan K. Stephens

(from left) Michael Dudley, Chamber’s Chair; Deborah Butler, Norfolk Southern Corp.; JohnMatson, TowneBank; John Barrett, Bon Secours Hampton Roads; Mayor Paul Fraim; BryanStephens, Chamber‘s President & CEO; Billy King, Chamber’s Norfolk Division Chair; andCDR Denis Cox, Naval Station Norfolk

The Hampton Roads Chamber’s annual State of the Cityseries kicked off with the Norfolk address on February

21. A sold out crowd of 1,000 business and communityleaders heard Norfolk Mayor Paul Fraim provide an updateon the city’s key business development initiatives, municipalprogress updates and opportunities.

Some accolades Norfolk has received recently are beingselected as an “All America City” by the National Civic League.Standard & Poor upgraded the city’s bond rating from AA toAA+, its first upgrade in 50 years. In addition, RealtyTracnamed downtown’s 23510 zip code as the third-best hipsterneighborhood in the nation.

Norfolk’s unemployment has fallen to 6.3%, a full percentdecline from February 2013. Crime dropped 4% to continue adecade-long trend.

Fraim said, “Development projects announced, underway ordelivered in the past 18 months represent $1.3 billion dollarsof investment, and more than 3,000 jobs.” The city finalizedan agreement with The Cordish Company for the renovation

and reinvention of Waterside. This project will create hundredsof new jobs and is projected to generate an estimated $93million in direct revenue to the city over 30 years.

“Thanks to the partnership between the city and Gold Key PHRHotels, we expect to be under construction this summer on a23-story full-service hotel and conference center fronting Main,Granby and Plume streets,” the mayor explained. The developer,Bruce Thompson, plans to open in a little more than two years.He added, “It will create 250 new jobs and make us competitivewith the D.C. area, Charlotte and Raleigh-Durham.”

Carnival Cruise Lines recently decided to resume cruises outof Norfolk next fall. Mayor Fraim said, “I want to thankGovernor McAuliffe for helping make this happen.”

The city is working with the Simon Property Group to developa portion of Lake Wright Golf Course into a Premium OutletCenter. Fraim said, “The $75 million project will bring 120upscale shops to the city and create 300 construction jobsand return an estimated $4.2 million dollars annually in taxrevenue.” City Council approved a letter of intent for sale of30 acres of the Lake Wright Golf Course, land Norfolkowns in Virginia Beach, to a joint venture between Simonand S.L. Nusbaum. It will constitute Phase 2 of a larger plan,forecasted to be a $50 million development.

Other new projects in the city include converting theTrader Building on Plume Street into high-end apartments;Ghent Station, a $17.5 million mixed-use development witha Fresh Market grocery store and a Bon Secours medical officebuilding.

Regarding transportation, he said, “Construction is wellunderway on the largest regional transportation project in ageneration – a second Midtown Tunnel. When finished inthree years, round-trip travel time between Norfolk andPortsmouth will be cut by 30 minutes.” Passenger rail servicewas added to Norfolk last year and in December, an intercitypassenger rail service station opened at Harbor Park. Ridershipof the Tide light rail continues to increase and he said, “Aftertwo and a half years of operation, light rail has proven to be asafe, reliable and on-time mode of transportation that shouldbe expanded to Virginia Beach and elsewhere in the region.”

1,000 Attend Norfolk State of the City Address

Join the Chamber for the remaining State of the City events taking place through May. Register at Events.HamptonRoadsChamber.com.

Rhonnda was presented with acertificate and $100 by ChamberPresident and CEO Bryan Stephens(right) and Neeraj “Raj” Agarwal,2014 Chair of the AmbassadorCommittee

Friday, April 11PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP LUNCHEON SERIES Speaker: Lisa Caputo Holiday Inn Virginia Beach-Norfolk Hotel & Conference Center

Tuesday, May 6SUFFOLK STATE OF THE CITYHilton Garden Inn Suffolk RiverfrontHotel & Conference Center

For a complete list of Chamber events, visit Events.HamptonRoadsChamber.com

TRUSTEE PROFILE

4075 HRCC 3/7/14 2:58 PM Page 1

Page 2: Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Winter 2014...Kraft Foods, Planters Starr Motors, Inc. Tidewater Applicators, Inc. White’s Nursery & Greenhouses, Inc. 25 YEARS Clancy & Theys Construction

The Chamber’s Annual Meeting of the Membership, heldDecember 11 at The Founders Inn, brought together 750 of

the region’s business leaders and community leaders. The2013 Chamber Chair Deborah Stearns handed the gavel to2014 Chair Michael Dudley. Susan Blackman of Willcox &Savage P.C., was named the Chamber’s 2013 Volunteer ofthe Year. Susan led the selection committee for the Chamber’snew President & CEO. She also served in 2013 as the Chamber’sTreasurer. Susan will serve as the Chamber’s Chair-elect in2014.

The Chamber’s new President & CEO Bryan Stephens told thecrowd, “I will do everything I can to assure that your Chamberis striving for excellence every day, is a top quality andmeaningful organization that adds value to your organization.”

The Chamber honored volunteer leaders who served theregion. Recipients included: Chesapeake Division LeadershipAward, Shirley Forbes, Owner of Virginia Consultants; NorfolkDivision Leadership Award, Dawna Ellis, CFO of HarveyLindsay Commercial Real Estate; Portsmouth Division LeadershipAward, Raymond Joseph; Suffolk Division LeadershipAward, Betsy Bagnell Totten, Vice President of TowneBankGreenbrier; Virginia Beach Division Leadership Award, MaryRusso, Director of the Office of Volunteer Resources for theCity of Virginia Beach; and the Marian P. WhitehurstWomen in Leadership Award, Dr. Nancy Welch, Director ofthe Chesapeake Health Department and Acting Director ofthe Western Tidewater Health Department.

The event’s keynote speaker, Governor-elect Terry McAuliffe,discussed the region’s assets, economic development,transportation, Medicaid and early childhood education.McAuliffe said he will lead in a bipartisan way and reach outto Republicans. “We have found common ground on so manyissues,” he said. McAuliffe said he wants to diversify theeconomy and add jobs.

The Chamber thanks Old Point National Bank (PresentingSponsor); Bon Secours Virginia Health System (SpeakerSponsor); Cox Communications (Media Sponsor); TheFounders Inn & Spa (Gold Sponsor) and BB&T (Silver Sponsor).

On the morning of January 14 at the Sheraton Norfolk Watersidethe Chamber hosted the “Hampton Roads Business Brief:

Cyber Security in an Era of Leaks, Hackers, and Big Data” presentedby Bank of America. Martin Joseph, President of 360IT Partnersserved as the moderator. Panelists included Heather Engel,Principal at Sera-Brynn; Scott Phillpott, Senior Maritime andCyber Analyst at Valkyrie Enterprises Inc.; and a Special Agentfrom the Cyber Crimes Division of the FBI.

Phillpott spoke in detail about how easily a hacker could stealsomeone’s information and how relatively inexpensive thesoftware needed to do so was. Regarding how long it wouldtake him to access a company’s information Phillpott said,“The idea is that they can have email addresses, phone numbers,Facebook information, and Twitter handles all in about fiveseconds. It isn’t rocket science.”

The last speaker at the event was a FBI Special Agent based outof the Norfolk Office who primarily investigates cyber crimes.Regarding cyber crimes and the possible threats they carry intothe future, the Special Agent said, “The former Director of the FBItestified to Congress last year and said Cyber crime is probablygoing to become the number one investigative priority of the FBIwithin the next five years and that’s because this is a large threat.”Last year, the direct cost of cybercrime to U.S. businesses was$114 billion.

The panelists stressed that every business should have a planin place and Phillpott added that, “You must come up with aback-up plan.”

Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Winter 2014 Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Winter 2014

Experts Brief Business Community on Cyber SecurityChamber Membership –A Return on InvestmentTake advantage of membership in the Chamber. Two of the top reasons businesses join the Chamber are CONNECTIONS and CREDIBILITY.

ConnectionsEvery month the Chamber holds 20+ networking events that helpyou build relationships by meeting other business professionals,offering opportunities to expand connections, and more importantly,gain new customers. Grow your business by networking with theChamber morning, noon and night!

Reuben Mendez of 360IT Partners, said, “Being a member of theHampton Roads Chamber of Commerce is the ultimate way toconnect with like-minded business people. Our membership hasgiven my employer, 360IT Partners, exposure that has grown thebusiness. It has become invaluable to keeping our finger on thepulse of the entire Hampton Roads marketplace.”

CredibilityA national study found that when consumersknow that a small business is a member of achamber of commerce, they are 49% more

likely to think favorably of it and 80% more likely to purchase goodsand services from the company.

If your company is not a member of the Hampton Roads Chamber,join the nearly 2,000 member businesses that employ more than280,000 men and women in the region. Membership starts around$1 a day. Call 757-664-2504.

Student-Athletes and Parents attend REC Forum Hosted bySports Commission

For the second year, the Hampton Roads Sports Commission (HRSC),an affiliate of the Hampton Roads Chamber, hosted the College

Recruiting, Eligibility, and Compliance Forum (REC) for college-boundstudent-athletes. The forum was held on February 11 from 5-9pm atThe Virginia Beach Resort and Conference Center. The REC Forumwas presented by CHKD Sports Medicine.

Guest speaker Larry Rubama, sports writer with The Virginian-Pilot,gave a presentation titled “It’s Bigger Than You.” Rubama discussedthe impact social media can have on student-athletes. “The numberone rule is always think before you post,” he said. Rubamareminded attendees that they are reflections of their teammates,coaches, school and family. “Don’t tweet what’s on your mind aftera loss,” he advised. Rubama explained that social media shouldbe a positive tool to share good news about yourself and your team.

Student-athletes and their parents learned the ins and outs of therecruiting process from local Division I, II & III colleges, theCIAA and NCAA. Attendees were given important tips forhigher education, emphasizing that academics are the main focusand that willpower is very important. Guests enjoyed a college andvendor fair allowing students and parents to talk one-on-one withcollege and business representatives.

Morgan Lang, Executive Director of the Hampton Roads SportsCommission, awarded scholarships to Thomas Rawley Dawson ofCape Henry Collegiate School and Bailey Stewart of GrassfieldHigh School.

Teagle ad

Governor-elect TerryMcAuliffe Speaksat Chamber’s AnnualMeeting

Small businesses are a vital piece of Hampton Roads’economy and the Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber

will host its 2014 Small Business Awards luncheon onWednesday, May 21 to honor outstanding local businesses,leaders and entrepreneurs.

A Small Business of the Year will be recognized in eachSouthside city (Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, VirginiaBeach, and Suffolk) and one on the Peninsula. An overallwinner will be chosen for the regional award and receive aprize package from the Chamber valued at $10,000.

The “Top 10 to Watch,” award will be given to 10 HamptonRoads for-profit emerging businesses with fewer than99 employees, in business for five years or less as ofJanuary 1, 2014.

The Young Entrepreneur Award (YEA!), will be awardedto a standout young entrepreneur in the Hampton Roadsregion, recognizing young entrepreneurs who have takenthe risk of starting and running their own business inHampton Roads.

In addition, the Impressions in Print LeadershipAward will be presented to an individual demonstratingleadership, impact on workplace culture, communityservice and involvement, professional achievement,and perseverance.

Thanks to sponsors: Southern Bank (Presenting); InsideBusiness (Media); and Impressions in Print (LeadershipAward).

Travel the World with the Chamber

Travel to Austria and Germany for Oktoberfest from September26-October 4, 2014. This trip includes memorable sites andunforgettable cultural experiences. Visit Neuschwanstein Castle(Cinderella’s Castle) and Innsbruck. Only $2,799 per person (doubleoccupancy). For more, visit HamptonRoadsChamber.com/Austria.

The Chamber HonorsSmall Businesses

(from left) Michael Dudley, 2014 Chair; Deborah Stearns, 2013 Chair; SusanBlackman, 2014 Chair-elect and 2013 Volunteer of the Year; and Bryan Stephens,Chamber President & CEO

(from left) Charles Henderson, Bank of America; Martin Joseph, Heather Engel andScott Phillpott

Experience China from October 6-14, 2014. This 9-day all inclusivetrip takes you to Beijing, Hangzhou, Suzhou and Shanghai. You willvisit the Great Wall, Tian An Men Square, and learn about the Chinesebusiness system. Only $2,399 per person (double occupancy). Formore, visit HamptonRoadsChamber.com/china.

Both trips are open to the public. Space is limited. For more information,call 757-664-2501.

SBDC Receives Legacies Silver Star Award for Jobs and Entrepreneurship

On February 27, the Small Business Development Center of Hampton Roads, Inc. (SBDC)received the 2014 Legacies Silver Star Award for Jobs and Entrepreneurship by the UrbanLeague of Hampton Roads Young Professionals. This award recognizes excellence inentrepreneurship and job creation in the Hampton Roads community. The Urban League ofHampton Roads Young Professional’s mission is to engage young professionals in the UrbanLeague of Hampton Roads’ movement towards the achievement of social and economicequality. (pictured from left) Debra Farley and Jim Carroll of the SBDC with Edith White,President & CEO of the Urban League of Hampton Roads.

On April 8 from 4-7pm, the Hampton Roads Chamber is hosting its first ever Spring Business to Business Expo at the Marriott Chesapeake. Join hundreds of other businessprofessionals for networking and visit business exhibitorbooths. Advance registration not required. For more, visitEvents.HamptonRoadsChamber.com.

HamptonRoadsChamber.comGets New Look

The Chamber’s website HamptonRoadsChamber.com was relaunched in earlyMarch. The new site features an updated look and easier navigation forvisitors. The website is mobile, making it easy to view from your laptop, iPador smartphone. With nearly 100,000 visits a year, the Chamber’s website is anexcellent tool and resource for members and the residents of Hampton Roads.

(from left) Volunteer award recipients Mary Russo, Dawna Ellis, Shirley Forbes,Raymond Joseph and Betsy Bagnell

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Page 3: Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Winter 2014...Kraft Foods, Planters Starr Motors, Inc. Tidewater Applicators, Inc. White’s Nursery & Greenhouses, Inc. 25 YEARS Clancy & Theys Construction

The Chamber’s Annual Meeting of the Membership, heldDecember 11 at The Founders Inn, brought together 750 of

the region’s business leaders and community leaders. The2013 Chamber Chair Deborah Stearns handed the gavel to2014 Chair Michael Dudley. Susan Blackman of Willcox &Savage P.C., was named the Chamber’s 2013 Volunteer ofthe Year. Susan led the selection committee for the Chamber’snew President & CEO. She also served in 2013 as the Chamber’sTreasurer. Susan will serve as the Chamber’s Chair-elect in2014.

The Chamber’s new President & CEO Bryan Stephens told thecrowd, “I will do everything I can to assure that your Chamberis striving for excellence every day, is a top quality andmeaningful organization that adds value to your organization.”

The Chamber honored volunteer leaders who served theregion. Recipients included: Chesapeake Division LeadershipAward, Shirley Forbes, Owner of Virginia Consultants; NorfolkDivision Leadership Award, Dawna Ellis, CFO of HarveyLindsay Commercial Real Estate; Portsmouth Division LeadershipAward, Raymond Joseph; Suffolk Division LeadershipAward, Betsy Bagnell Totten, Vice President of TowneBankGreenbrier; Virginia Beach Division Leadership Award, MaryRusso, Director of the Office of Volunteer Resources for theCity of Virginia Beach; and the Marian P. WhitehurstWomen in Leadership Award, Dr. Nancy Welch, Director ofthe Chesapeake Health Department and Acting Director ofthe Western Tidewater Health Department.

The event’s keynote speaker, Governor-elect Terry McAuliffe,discussed the region’s assets, economic development,transportation, Medicaid and early childhood education.McAuliffe said he will lead in a bipartisan way and reach outto Republicans. “We have found common ground on so manyissues,” he said. McAuliffe said he wants to diversify theeconomy and add jobs.

The Chamber thanks Old Point National Bank (PresentingSponsor); Bon Secours Virginia Health System (SpeakerSponsor); Cox Communications (Media Sponsor); TheFounders Inn & Spa (Gold Sponsor) and BB&T (Silver Sponsor).

On the morning of January 14 at the Sheraton Norfolk Watersidethe Chamber hosted the “Hampton Roads Business Brief:

Cyber Security in an Era of Leaks, Hackers, and Big Data” presentedby Bank of America. Martin Joseph, President of 360IT Partnersserved as the moderator. Panelists included Heather Engel,Principal at Sera-Brynn; Scott Phillpott, Senior Maritime andCyber Analyst at Valkyrie Enterprises Inc.; and a Special Agentfrom the Cyber Crimes Division of the FBI.

Phillpott spoke in detail about how easily a hacker could stealsomeone’s information and how relatively inexpensive thesoftware needed to do so was. Regarding how long it wouldtake him to access a company’s information Phillpott said,“The idea is that they can have email addresses, phone numbers,Facebook information, and Twitter handles all in about fiveseconds. It isn’t rocket science.”

The last speaker at the event was a FBI Special Agent based outof the Norfolk Office who primarily investigates cyber crimes.Regarding cyber crimes and the possible threats they carry intothe future, the Special Agent said, “The former Director of the FBItestified to Congress last year and said Cyber crime is probablygoing to become the number one investigative priority of the FBIwithin the next five years and that’s because this is a large threat.”Last year, the direct cost of cybercrime to U.S. businesses was$114 billion.

The panelists stressed that every business should have a planin place and Phillpott added that, “You must come up with aback-up plan.”

Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Winter 2014 Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Winter 2014

Experts Brief Business Community on Cyber SecurityChamber Membership –A Return on InvestmentTake advantage of membership in the Chamber. Two of the top reasons businesses join the Chamber are CONNECTIONS and CREDIBILITY.

ConnectionsEvery month the Chamber holds 20+ networking events that helpyou build relationships by meeting other business professionals,offering opportunities to expand connections, and more importantly,gain new customers. Grow your business by networking with theChamber morning, noon and night!

Reuben Mendez of 360IT Partners, said, “Being a member of theHampton Roads Chamber of Commerce is the ultimate way toconnect with like-minded business people. Our membership hasgiven my employer, 360IT Partners, exposure that has grown thebusiness. It has become invaluable to keeping our finger on thepulse of the entire Hampton Roads marketplace.”

CredibilityA national study found that when consumersknow that a small business is a member of achamber of commerce, they are 49% more

likely to think favorably of it and 80% more likely to purchase goodsand services from the company.

If your company is not a member of the Hampton Roads Chamber,join the nearly 2,000 member businesses that employ more than280,000 men and women in the region. Membership starts around$1 a day. Call 757-664-2504.

Student-Athletes and Parents attend REC Forum Hosted bySports Commission

For the second year, the Hampton Roads Sports Commission (HRSC),an affiliate of the Hampton Roads Chamber, hosted the College

Recruiting, Eligibility, and Compliance Forum (REC) for college-boundstudent-athletes. The forum was held on February 11 from 5-9pm atThe Virginia Beach Resort and Conference Center. The REC Forumwas presented by CHKD Sports Medicine.

Guest speaker Larry Rubama, sports writer with The Virginian-Pilot,gave a presentation titled “It’s Bigger Than You.” Rubama discussedthe impact social media can have on student-athletes. “The numberone rule is always think before you post,” he said. Rubamareminded attendees that they are reflections of their teammates,coaches, school and family. “Don’t tweet what’s on your mind aftera loss,” he advised. Rubama explained that social media shouldbe a positive tool to share good news about yourself and your team.

Student-athletes and their parents learned the ins and outs of therecruiting process from local Division I, II & III colleges, theCIAA and NCAA. Attendees were given important tips forhigher education, emphasizing that academics are the main focusand that willpower is very important. Guests enjoyed a college andvendor fair allowing students and parents to talk one-on-one withcollege and business representatives.

Morgan Lang, Executive Director of the Hampton Roads SportsCommission, awarded scholarships to Thomas Rawley Dawson ofCape Henry Collegiate School and Bailey Stewart of GrassfieldHigh School.

Teagle ad

Governor-elect TerryMcAuliffe Speaksat Chamber’s AnnualMeeting

Small businesses are a vital piece of Hampton Roads’economy and the Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber

will host its 2014 Small Business Awards luncheon onWednesday, May 21 to honor outstanding local businesses,leaders and entrepreneurs.

A Small Business of the Year will be recognized in eachSouthside city (Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, VirginiaBeach, and Suffolk) and one on the Peninsula. An overallwinner will be chosen for the regional award and receive aprize package from the Chamber valued at $10,000.

The “Top 10 to Watch,” award will be given to 10 HamptonRoads for-profit emerging businesses with fewer than99 employees, in business for five years or less as ofJanuary 1, 2014.

The Young Entrepreneur Award (YEA!), will be awardedto a standout young entrepreneur in the Hampton Roadsregion, recognizing young entrepreneurs who have takenthe risk of starting and running their own business inHampton Roads.

In addition, the Impressions in Print LeadershipAward will be presented to an individual demonstratingleadership, impact on workplace culture, communityservice and involvement, professional achievement,and perseverance.

Thanks to sponsors: Southern Bank (Presenting); InsideBusiness (Media); and Impressions in Print (LeadershipAward).

Travel the World with the Chamber

Travel to Austria and Germany for Oktoberfest from September26-October 4, 2014. This trip includes memorable sites andunforgettable cultural experiences. Visit Neuschwanstein Castle(Cinderella’s Castle) and Innsbruck. Only $2,799 per person (doubleoccupancy). For more, visit HamptonRoadsChamber.com/Austria.

The Chamber HonorsSmall Businesses

(from left) Michael Dudley, 2014 Chair; Deborah Stearns, 2013 Chair; SusanBlackman, 2014 Chair-elect and 2013 Volunteer of the Year; and Bryan Stephens,Chamber President & CEO

(from left) Charles Henderson, Bank of America; Martin Joseph, Heather Engel andScott Phillpott

Experience China from October 6-14, 2014. This 9-day all inclusivetrip takes you to Beijing, Hangzhou, Suzhou and Shanghai. You willvisit the Great Wall, Tian An Men Square, and learn about the Chinesebusiness system. Only $2,399 per person (double occupancy). Formore, visit HamptonRoadsChamber.com/china.

Both trips are open to the public. Space is limited. For more information,call 757-664-2501.

SBDC Receives Legacies Silver Star Award for Jobs and Entrepreneurship

On February 27, the Small Business Development Center of Hampton Roads, Inc. (SBDC)received the 2014 Legacies Silver Star Award for Jobs and Entrepreneurship by the UrbanLeague of Hampton Roads Young Professionals. This award recognizes excellence inentrepreneurship and job creation in the Hampton Roads community. The Urban League ofHampton Roads Young Professional’s mission is to engage young professionals in the UrbanLeague of Hampton Roads’ movement towards the achievement of social and economicequality. (pictured from left) Debra Farley and Jim Carroll of the SBDC with Edith White,President & CEO of the Urban League of Hampton Roads.

On April 8 from 4-7pm, the Hampton Roads Chamber is hosting its first ever Spring Business to Business Expo at the Marriott Chesapeake. Join hundreds of other businessprofessionals for networking and visit business exhibitorbooths. Advance registration not required. For more, visitEvents.HamptonRoadsChamber.com.

HamptonRoadsChamber.comGets New Look

The Chamber’s website HamptonRoadsChamber.com was relaunched in earlyMarch. The new site features an updated look and easier navigation forvisitors. The website is mobile, making it easy to view from your laptop, iPador smartphone. With nearly 100,000 visits a year, the Chamber’s website is anexcellent tool and resource for members and the residents of Hampton Roads.

(from left) Volunteer award recipients Mary Russo, Dawna Ellis, Shirley Forbes,Raymond Joseph and Betsy Bagnell

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Page 4: Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Winter 2014...Kraft Foods, Planters Starr Motors, Inc. Tidewater Applicators, Inc. White’s Nursery & Greenhouses, Inc. 25 YEARS Clancy & Theys Construction

The Voice of Business for Hampton Roads - General Assembly Update

Winter 2014

Message from the NewPresident & CEO

It is a distinct honor to have beenchosen as the Hampton Roads

Chamber of Commerce’s new President& CEO. I am both humbled and excitedat the privilege of working for you aswe make Hampton Roads the bestpro-business community in the Nation.Having both a military and business

background, I understand the unique challenges, concerns, andissues facing you and our region and I am working diligentlywith the Chamber staff, volunteers and board of directorsto make the Hampton Roads Chamber the most relevant,informative, and impactful as possible, while providingtangible value to our business members and the community.

It has been said the quality of an organization is in directproportion to its commitment to excellence. You can becertain the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce is totallycommitted to excellence in everything we do. For those ofyou who have been members of this Chamber you will see anew and revised organization as we refocus our efforts andstrive everyday to exceed expectations. For those of you whoare not members, JOIN US! We won’t let you down and willshow you a definitive return on your membership investment.

I would like to share our new Mission, Vision, Values, andGoals. Our Mission is who we are and what we do. OurVision is who we want to be and where we are heading asan organization. Our Values are our beliefs and guidepost forconducting business every day. And our goals are what weare going to achieve this year.

Mission: The Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce isthe Region’s premier business organization; helping ourmembers succeed, driving regional economic growth andenhancing the quality of life of our community’s residents.

Vision: The Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce willbe the recognized national leader in ensuring a regional pro-business environment, strengthening a regional economy,and enhancing its members’ success, growth and vitality.

Values: Excellence – Selfless Service – Integrity – Commitment – Leadership – Loyalty – Advocacy – Diversity

Goals1. Provide tangible ROI to our members through programs and

services which enhance their ability to succeed and growtheir business.

2. Consistently and effectively represent business viewpointsand interests to the public sector.

3. Develop and improve the economy and quality of lifein the region.

4. Operate the Chamber in an effective and efficient mannerto ensure its long-term viability to the region and growth.

Again, it is a distinct honor to serve this great region. Ilook forward to working with you as together we makethe Hampton Roads region a national model for an amazingplace to live, work and run a business.

The 2014 General Assembly opened on January 8 for a 60-daysession with a constitutionally mandated requirement of adopting

a balanced two-year budget for the Commonwealth.

Several top priorities emerged as the session moved to “crossover”where bills must be considered by the Chamber in which they wereintroduced before being considered in the House of Delegates orVirginia Senate and moving to the Governor’s desk for signature.

House and Senate committees made bi-partisan ethics reform a toppriority. Legislation has emerged that strengthens Virginia’s laws andprovides a framework for all state employees and elected officials.

Another key priority for the Hampton Roads region is transportationfunding. Legislation that establishes a Hampton Roads RegionalTransportation Authority appears headed for passage. The newlyestablished Authority would have the ability to set tolls, sell bondsand establish priorities for our market. Local and state elected officialswould populate the new decision making body.

The most challenging legislative policy issue facing the 2014 GeneralAssembly is the question of Medicaid expansion and reform. TheSupreme Court of the United States provided individual states withthe option to participate in Medicaid expansion through the AffordableCare Act. The business community supports a private managed careoption for Medicaid and a broad coalition of business interests areurging the Commonwealth’s lawmakers to expand coverage.

Another significant development in the General Assembly occurredthis year after two special elections were held to fill the seats formerlyoccupied by Lt. Governor Ralph Northam and Attorney General MarkHerring. Once the election results were certified, Democrats tookcontrol of the Virginia Senate by adopting new rules and replacingRepublican committee chairs with Democratic Senators. With allthree of the state-wide elected officials and control of the VirginiaSenate, Democrats will have a significant impact on public policydecisions in the Commonwealth. However, with Republicans solidlyin control in the House of Delegates, there are likely to be a numberof partisan legislative battles prior to adjournment in March.

Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Winter 2014

OFFICERS: Michael Dudley, CHAIR

Susan Blackman, CHAIR-ELECT

Joe Witt, TREASURER

Bryan 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

Save The

Date

For more information about being a Strategic Partner, contact the membership department at 757-664-2504.

NOVEMBER 2013American Red Cross of Southeastern VirginiaArchbell Signs, Inc.Atlantic Orthopaedic SpecialistsAtria Virginia BeachChildren’s HarborClear Channel/WOWI, WKSA, WVMA, WMOVCommunity Outreach CoalitionHurrah PlayersIndigo Productions, IncLegacy Limousine and Luxury CoachesMessage Expansion PartnersThe Pampered Chef/Christina ManiscalcoTIAA-CREFOmni Business Systems-FaxPlusStorybook EventsThirty 7 NorthVinylmint

DECEMBER 2013Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast VirginiaDocutecture LLCFirst VirginiaJM Smucker CompanyMobile Site MamaNewtown Building Supplies, Inc.Phoenix House Mid-AtlanticTriangle Rent A Car

JANUARY 2014Advanced Engineering ConsultantsAffordable Floors, Inc.Andrea Zank dba Liberty Tax ServiceAssurety Title & EscrowAvon - Winifred Gallup, Independent Sales RepresentativeThe Benefit Co.Commonwealth Assisted Living - Georgian Manor Assisted Living

Delany Electrical ContractingDevelopment First, LLCDex Media Inc.First Team KiaHome Paramount Pest ControlIdeal ImageKeith Fabry ReprographicsKirwin Development StrategiesLeverage Capital GroupLJS Enterprises, LLCMedia EastMinor Emergency & Family Care CenterMosaic TileSam Weaver SupplyTactical Office SolutionsVirginia Entrepreneur Law Office PCWSKY-SKY4 TVZB Training Solutions LLC

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 November 2013 - January 2014.

facebook.com/Chamber757

twitter.com/Chamber757

linkedin.comGroup-Hampton RoadsChamber of Commerce

CHAMBER CORNER AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR

Congratulations to Rhonnda Claiborne,Realtor/Associate Broker, KellerWilliams Realty, who was named theChamber’s Ambassador of the Year for2013. Rhonnda began volunteering asan Ambassador in September 2012,attending networking functions andvolunteering at Chamber programs.

When asked how she felt about beingnamed the Ambassador of the Year,Rhonnda responded, “I feel veryexcited and honored, I was not expecting it.” Rhonnda attends theMorning Schmooze, Business AfterHours, the Business Education Series,and many other Chamber events.Rhonnda says that she recommendsmembership with the Chamberfrequently. “I talk about the benefits ofthe chamber because I feel that youhave an opportunity to meet a lot ofbusiness-minded people and youget a chance to build relationships,”she said.

The Ambassador Committee is adiverse group of 15 volunteers whoare dedicated to making a differencein the Chamber and the community.Ambassadors are liaisons betweenthe Chamber and new and existingmembers. For more information aboutthe Committee, call 757-664-2504.

Shirley Core began serving as theExecutive Assistant to the Presidentand CEO in January. Prior to thisposition, Shirley served as ProgramDevelopment Coordinator for theChamber.

Alisa Crider joined the Chamberin February as CommunicationsCoordinator. She is a graduate ofVirginia Wesleyan College andpreviously served as a Communicationsintern at the Chamber. For the pastfour years she has worked in thepublic relations/marketing and legalfields. Alisa was born and raised inHampton Roads.

In January, Maggie Cromwell beganserving as Program DevelopmentCoordinator for the Chamber. Shejoined the Chamber staff in June2012 in the role of Municipal AffairsCoordinator.

Wednesday, April 2 PORTSMOUTH STATE OF THE CITYRenaissance Portsmouth Hotel & Waterfront Conference Center

35 YEARSC. Allan Bamforth, Jr., Engineer-

Surveyor, Ltd.Coldwell Banker Professional,

RealtorsEntercom Communications DBAWWDE, WNVZ, WPTE WVKL

30 YEARSBogue Oil, Inc.Bon Secours Virginia Health

SystemBuilders & Contractors

Exchange, Inc.Cherry Bekaert LLPCrocker Funeral HomeData Business Systems, Inc.Drs. Althouse, Carroll &

Alperin, DDS, Ltd.Holiday Ice, Inc.Kraft Foods, PlantersStarr Motors, Inc.Tidewater Applicators, Inc.White’s Nursery &

Greenhouses, Inc.

25 YEARSClancy & Theys Construction Co.Coverall of VirginiaPatient First Medical CentersProfessional Printing CenterTroutman Sanders LLP

20 YEARSd’ART CenterNetTek, LLC

15 YEARSD.T. Read Steel Co., Inc.Gold Key-PHRKalman & Co., Inc.The Leukemia & Lymphoma

SocietyTriciquar

10 YEARSAthDel Ventures, Inc. dba The

Miles AgencyHampton Roads CommunityHealth Center, Inc.Spawar Systems Center, AtlanticThe Salvation ArmyT. A. Consulting Inc.

5 YEARSA. Reddix & AssociatesClassic Air’s One Hour Heating& Air ConditioningComfort Systems of Virginia, Inc.Enterprise Rent-A-CarLauren V. Wolcott, CPA, P.C.Old Dominion Utility ServicesPestar

WVEC ABC13 and WVEC.comserve the Hampton Roads region ofVirginia (including the “Seven Cities”:Chesapeake, Hampton, NewportNews, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk,and Virginia Beach), and the northeastcorner of North Carolina, including theOuter Banks. 13News Now produces33 hours of live local news and weather

per week, and is a leading provider of digital information throughan expanding portfolio of news and weather applications forsmart phones and tablets, including the award-winning“WeatherCaster” app. The audience looks to WVEC as theleading community-oriented station that most reflects theSpirit of Hampton Roads and northeastern North Carolina.

ABC13 has an advertising product suite that can reach audiencesat all phases of the consumer decision making process. Thestation hones in on its clients’ customers demographically,geographically, and psycho-graphically, using a wide rangeof research and planning tools. They customize televisioncampaigns in Hampton Roads, and as a provider of G/ODigital services ABC13 offers national marketing solutionsincluding search engine marketing, pay-per-click, mobile,social, display, and online reputation management.

To find out more about WVEC ABC13, visit www.wvec.com orcall 757-625-1313.

Brad RamseyGeneral Manager

To advertise, callSarah Lampert at757-664-2503.

Capitol

Bryan K. Stephens

(from left) Michael Dudley, Chamber’s Chair; Deborah Butler, Norfolk Southern Corp.; JohnMatson, TowneBank; John Barrett, Bon Secours Hampton Roads; Mayor Paul Fraim; BryanStephens, Chamber‘s President & CEO; Billy King, Chamber’s Norfolk Division Chair; andCDR Denis Cox, Naval Station Norfolk

The Hampton Roads Chamber’s annual State of the Cityseries kicked off with the Norfolk address on February

21. A sold out crowd of 1,000 business and communityleaders heard Norfolk Mayor Paul Fraim provide an updateon the city’s key business development initiatives, municipalprogress updates and opportunities.

Some accolades Norfolk has received recently are beingselected as an “All America City” by the National Civic League.Standard & Poor upgraded the city’s bond rating from AA toAA+, its first upgrade in 50 years. In addition, RealtyTracnamed downtown’s 23510 zip code as the third-best hipsterneighborhood in the nation.

Norfolk’s unemployment has fallen to 6.3%, a full percentdecline from February 2013. Crime dropped 4% to continue adecade-long trend.

Fraim said, “Development projects announced, underway ordelivered in the past 18 months represent $1.3 billion dollarsof investment, and more than 3,000 jobs.” The city finalizedan agreement with The Cordish Company for the renovation

and reinvention of Waterside. This project will create hundredsof new jobs and is projected to generate an estimated $93million in direct revenue to the city over 30 years.

“Thanks to the partnership between the city and Gold Key PHRHotels, we expect to be under construction this summer on a23-story full-service hotel and conference center fronting Main,Granby and Plume streets,” the mayor explained. The developer,Bruce Thompson, plans to open in a little more than two years.He added, “It will create 250 new jobs and make us competitivewith the D.C. area, Charlotte and Raleigh-Durham.”

Carnival Cruise Lines recently decided to resume cruises outof Norfolk next fall. Mayor Fraim said, “I want to thankGovernor McAuliffe for helping make this happen.”

The city is working with the Simon Property Group to developa portion of Lake Wright Golf Course into a Premium OutletCenter. Fraim said, “The $75 million project will bring 120upscale shops to the city and create 300 construction jobsand return an estimated $4.2 million dollars annually in taxrevenue.” City Council approved a letter of intent for sale of30 acres of the Lake Wright Golf Course, land Norfolkowns in Virginia Beach, to a joint venture between Simonand S.L. Nusbaum. It will constitute Phase 2 of a larger plan,forecasted to be a $50 million development.

Other new projects in the city include converting theTrader Building on Plume Street into high-end apartments;Ghent Station, a $17.5 million mixed-use development witha Fresh Market grocery store and a Bon Secours medical officebuilding.

Regarding transportation, he said, “Construction is wellunderway on the largest regional transportation project in ageneration – a second Midtown Tunnel. When finished inthree years, round-trip travel time between Norfolk andPortsmouth will be cut by 30 minutes.” Passenger rail servicewas added to Norfolk last year and in December, an intercitypassenger rail service station opened at Harbor Park. Ridershipof the Tide light rail continues to increase and he said, “Aftertwo and a half years of operation, light rail has proven to be asafe, reliable and on-time mode of transportation that shouldbe expanded to Virginia Beach and elsewhere in the region.”

1,000 Attend Norfolk State of the City Address

Join the Chamber for the remaining State of the City events taking place through May. Register at Events.HamptonRoadsChamber.com.

Rhonnda was presented with acertificate and $100 by ChamberPresident and CEO Bryan Stephens(right) and Neeraj “Raj” Agarwal,2014 Chair of the AmbassadorCommittee

Friday, April 11PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP LUNCHEON SERIES Speaker: Lisa Caputo Holiday Inn Virginia Beach-Norfolk Hotel & Conference Center

Tuesday, May 6SUFFOLK STATE OF THE CITYHilton Garden Inn Suffolk RiverfrontHotel & Conference Center

For a complete list of Chamber events, visit Events.HamptonRoadsChamber.com

TRUSTEE PROFILE

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