Chamber Day at the Capital
February 1, 2010

Governor Bob McDonnell addressed the Chamber Day assembly in Richmond to discuss issues such as Virginia's economy.

The 2010 session of Virginia's General Assembly is in full swing, and this year our legislators face a difficult task as they appropriate funds with a tight budget.  The state of the economy is an issue for all levels of government and it was the lead concern addressed at the January 27th Chamber Day at the Capital.  Smyth County's Chamber Executive Director, Kristin Untiedt-Barnett, traveled to Richmond to participate in Chamber Day as the Commonwealth's newest leaders discussed their plans for Virginia's future. 

Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling was the first to address Chamber Day.  He introduced the "Jobs and Opportunity Agenda" that includes $65 million in investments for international economic development, tourism and marketing, and business incentives for advanced manufacturing and energy.  This plan for economic recovery is to create a business environment where entrepreneurship is encouraged and new jobs can be created.   Bill Howell, the Speaker of the House of Delegates, reinforced Bolling's agenda by stating that the immediate task is daunting, but the long term is promising.  Virginia was recently named the number one state for doing business.  And although many Virginia businesses have had to make cuts, they are still producing and bringing in revenues.

Governor Bob McDonnell spoke in detail about his plans for Virginia's economy.  He proposed investments in biotechnologies and energy that could create jobs and build tax and royalty revenues.  McDonnell's plan includes budgeting approximately $7million for tourism, citing a five to one return on such investments.  The tourism budget would include efforts to promote Virginia's Civil War history during the 2011 Sesquicentennial Commemoration, as well as providing funding for the Virginia Film Office and incentives for film production in Virginia. 

These proposals were just a sampling of the many that will come before the General Assembly this session.  Though each of the Chamber Day speakers remained positive that the Commonwealth will see a positive change in the economic forecast, they all made note that cuts must be made.  Chamber Day provided an outreach for bipartisan support to help Virginia plan for the future and recover from economic struggles.

Census 2010 Road Tour Raises Awareness
January 13, 2010

Rhiannon Powers of the Smyth County United Way helps FM94 host Henry Thomas conduct on air Census trivia games to raise awareness and give away prizes.

With the sun finally shining, January 13, 2010 was a beautiful afternoon for the Census 2010 Road Tour to visit Smyth County.  Under the direction of the Smyth County Complete County Census Committee, the Census 2010 Road Tour made a stop at the Smyth Valley Crossing shopping center in Marion.  The purpose of the tour is to raise awareness about the upcoming Census.  During the Smyth County rally, the Census set up video kiosks, inflatable signs, tables with information, and fun giveaways.  Supporting organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce of Smyth County, SCALE, Helping Hands Community Thrift Store, and the Smyth County United Way were on hand to assist with the distribution of information and prizes.  Local radio stations, FM94 and Z103.5, helped to spread the word with live feeds from the rally.  Prizes including event tickets, CDs, and even a trip to Disney were given to contestants who participated in Census trivia games.

The Smyth County Complete Count Census Committee is continuing their work to raise awareness throughout our local community about the importance of completing the 2010 Census forms.  Census forms will be sent by mail during the months of February and March, and should be mailed back by April 1, which is National Census Day.  This year's form includes only 10 questions and should take approximately 10 minutes to complete.  The information is completely confidential and must include all residents, both citizens and non-citizens.  Census takers will visit the households that do not return their forms by mail during the months following National Census Day.  The completed Census forms help to determine community needs so that the government can properly allocate funding for assistance programs and develop locations for schools, housing facilities, and hospitals.  In addition, the Census serves to assess our state, local, and congressional districts. 

For more information about the upcoming Census, visit 2010.census.gov or contact your local government office or the Chamber of Commerce. 

Chamber Newsletters Go Online
January 6, 2010

The Chamber News & Events Flyer has a new look as an online publication.

The Chamber of Commerce of Smyth County, Inc. is proud to announce it's new online version of the Chamber News & Events Flyer.  In an effort to keep updating the use of technology in the Chamber office, the new version of the newsletter is designed using Constant Contact online marketing tools.  It will now be sent to the membership via email and will also be available online with a link from the Chamber website.  The News & Events Flyer follows a similar format as was used in past.  It features a click-able index of articles included in the issue, brief news articles, photographs, and links for more information to the Chamber website.  The Chamber hopes that this more cost-effective and environmentally friendly method of publishing the News & Events will also be more readily available to members and the general public.  In addition, the Chamber plans more frequent publication of News & Events so that the community can be up to date on Chamber happenings. 

Seasons of Smyth County Photography Contest Begins
January 1, 2010

A tree atop the mountains in Konnarock was frozen from limb to limb during a recent snow storm.

The Chamber of Commerce of Smyth County, Inc. is ready to start a busy year in 2010.  This year they are asking the community to help celebrate the best of the "Seasons of Smyth County!"  The Chamber is sponsoring a photography contest open throughout the year to anyone with original photos of landscapes, unique locations, local events and activities from the Smyth County, Virginia community.  All entries must follow the rules of the contest and should be submitted within the established seasonal deadlines.
Winter              January 1 – March 31
Spring              April 1 – June 30
Summer            July 1 – September 30
Autumn            October 1 – December 31
All photos must be original work without major alteration and must only include Smyth County settings.  Photos should reflect the season during which they are submitted and may be in color or black and white
The Chamber of Commerce will publish contest photos in a "Seasons of Smyth County" book published at the end of the contest.  One winner will be chosen from each season by a panel of judges, and will be featured as the chapter cover page in the book.  In addition, an overall winner will be chosen and featured on the cover of the book.  Winners will receive a complimentary copy of the published book.
Photos can be submitted by e-mailing a digital image along with a completed entry form and subject release form (for photos featuring people) to info@smythchamber.org.  Photos may also be mailed or delivered to the Chamber office.  There is no charge to enter the contest.  Complete contest rules and forms are available online at and at the Chamber of Commerce office at 214 West Main Street in Marion.

Download Forms Here

Christmas Decorating Contest Winners Announced
December 23, 2009

The citizens of Smyth County celebrated the holiday season in style this year as they decorated their homes and businesses with lights, wreaths, and various other decor.  The Chamber of Commerce sponsored its annual Christmas Decorating Contest again this year, giving Smyth County residents an opportunity to compete for the title of Best Decorated Home.  During the week of December 14-18, the 17 homes from across the county that were registered for the contest were judged by a group organized through the Chamber's Area Beautification committee.  The criteria  for judging were creativity, holiday spirit, and overall beauty.  The judges' scorecards reflected close scores, and there was only a half point difference between the winners!  The first place winners, of a $100 prize, were James Allen and Sandy Norris of Marion.  The second place, $50, winners were Allen and Peggy Cornett of Sugar Grove.  And the winner of the $25 third place prize was Debbie and Shawn Selecman of Saltville.  The Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate the winners of the Christmas Decorating Contest, and thank all those who participated this year.  This annual contest is another great tradition that recognizes and builds the community spirit of Smyth County. 

 

Celebrating With Jerry
December 15, 2009

At the December Board Meeting 2009 Chamber President, David Rhea, presents Jerry Jones a gift basket in honor of his retirement.

The Board of Directors of the Chamber of Commerce of Smyth County, Inc. held their final meeting for 2009 on Tuesday, December 15 at the Town House in Chilhowie.  The evening began with a variety of hors d'oeuvres made by the Town House chefs as Board members and their guests took time to celebrate a year of success for the Chamber and the community.  After taking care of the meeting business, the celebration continued as outgoing Executive Director Jerry Jones was recognized for his contributions to the Chamber of Commerce.  Not only has Jerry worked as the Executive Director for the past three years, but he has also served as Executive Director and President in the past.  After Jerry retired from his work in the Smyth County school system as a teacher, coach, and principal, he has continued to serve his community.  The Chamber is grateful for his dedication and hard work that has kept the organization moving forward over the years.

Networking Breakfast
December 9, 2009

Chamber members and other community leaders enjoyed a delicious breakfast while they visited during the Networking Breakfast.

It was an early morning on December 9, 2009 for Networking Breakfast attendees.  Registration for the event began at 7:30am, allowing Chamber members and other community leaders to spend time networking and exchanging business cards before breakfast was served.  The halls of the General Francis Marion Hotel Conference Center were decked for the holidays, adding a festive spirit to the event. 

Following the delicious breakfast meal, the attendees introduced themselves to the group and Edie Bobko from the Mount Rogers Health District gave a presentation.  The presentation included H1N1 and flu season updates, as well as information about maintaining a healthy workplace.  At the end of the breakfast event, Ms. Bobko drew from the collection of business cards to pick a winner for the door prize.  Ken Heath of Marion Downtown! was the lucky winner of a flu season gift basket that included items such as tissues, antibacterial wipes, and hand soap. 

The Chamber of Commerce of Smyth County would like to express our gratitude to the presenter, Edie Bobko, and everyone who attended the event for helping to make it a success.  The Chamber will host future Networking Breakfast events with topics such as Census 2010. 

Chilhowie Business Decorating Judging
December 5, 2009

Samantha Archer and Kelly Spencer-Hill joined Santa Claus at Chilhowie High School for the Project Graduation Pancake Breakfast on December 5.

Representatives from the Chamber of Commerce of Smyth County's Special Events and Community Action Committee served as judges for the Chilhowie Business Decorating Contest on December 5, 2009.  The judges were hosted by the Town of Chilhowie and were also invited to enjoy pancakes at the Project Graduation Breakfast event before they were sent into the flurry of snow to judge the decorations.   The judges were impressed by the efforts of Chilhowie's businesses to represent the holiday spirit.  The Chamber of Commerce and its Special Events and Community Action Committee would like to thank the Town of Chilhowie for their work on this event, and for inviting the Chamber to participate. 

Legislative Breakfast
November 23, 2009

State Senator Wampler addresses the audience at the 2009 Southwest Virginia Legislative Breakfast in the new UVA-Wise dining commons.

Monday, November 23, 2009 brought the Chamber of Commerce across the mountains to Wise County for the Southwest Virginia Legislative Breakfast.  The Smyth County Chamber was one of ten local chambers that co-sponsored the event.  Held at the University of Virginia's College at Wise, the Legislative Breakfast allowed chamber members and staff to pose questions to the Delegates and Senators that represent our region at the state level.  Topics of discussion included state budget cuts, K-12 and higher education, and tourism.  Both questions posed by the Smyth County Chamber, concerning budget cuts and maintaining support for industries, were included in the forum.

 

Holiday Open House
November 22, 2009

Chamber President David Rhea and his family joined Executive Director Kristin Untiedt-Barnett and Rhiannon Powers aboard a float in the Kaleidoscope Parade. 

After the Marion Kaleidoscope Parade on Sunday, November 22, 2009 the Chamber hosted a Holiday Open House.  The staff and Board members visited with community members, and everyone enjoyed cider, hot chocolate, and cookies. 

Annual Dinner Meeting
November 19, 2009

Dr. Jack Garland addresses the crowd on behalf of the staff and congregation of Riverside Baptist Church, winner of the 2009 Overall Area Beautification Award.

The Chamber of Commerce of Smyth County, Inc. has been active this fall, most recently hosting their Annual Dinner meeting, a Holiday Open House, and co-sponsoring the Southwest Virginia Legislative Breakfast.
The Annual Dinner meeting was held on Thursday, November 19, 2009 at the General Francis Marion Hotel, Conference Center.  The Chamber Board of Directors met prior to the general meeting to discuss specific agenda items.  The general meeting featured guest speaker Joe Tennis. Tennis is an award-winning features writer for the Bristol Herald Courier, and the author of the critically acclaimed Beach to Bluegrass: Places to Brake on Virginia's Longest Road and Southwest Virginia Crossroads: An Almanac of Place Names and Places to See.  His work includes stories, tales, photography, and legends about ghosts, music, and places familiar to Smyth County residents, including Mount Rogers and Whitetop.  Sharing the unique qualities of Southwest Virginia is Tennis’ proof that, as the he says, “the state does not stop at Roanoke.”  The Chamber was pleased to host  Mr. Tennis for the evening and the audience thoroughly enjoyed his entertaining presentation.

Committee awards were also presented during the evening's program.  The Area Beautification Committee awarded Riverside Baptist Church the 2009 Overall Area Beautification Award for Smyth County.  Dr. Jack Garland, the pastor for Riverside Baptist, gladly received the award on behalf of the congregation and staff.  The church was recognized for the work that they have done in landscaping and maintaining their property, including new windows and a roof and beautiful flower beds along the river bank.  The Education Committee presented three local High School students, one from each of the county's high schools, with the Tom Burkett Educational Scholarship.  The recipients of the scholarship met criteria including academic achievement and community service. The winners were Olivia Bailey from Chilhowie High School, Kariana Moore from Northwood High School, and Tiffany Reedy from Marion Senior High School. 

Olivia Bailey, of Chilhowie High School, is the niece of Grant and Pam Hall of Chilhowie and ranks 4^th in her class with a GPA of 4.2.  She has served as an officer for the Student Council, SADD, and her class while also participating in various athletics, clubs, and volunteer organizations such as St. Jude’s.  Olivia plans to continue her education at Emory and Henry college with major studies in Mass Communications leading to a career in Broadcast Journalism.

Kariana Moore, of Northwood High School, is the daughter of Gary Moore of Saltville and ranks 6^th in her class with a GPA of 4.2.  She is active in the Beta, Foreign Language, and Panther Pride clubs, and is involved in various athletics.  In addition, she volunteers with the food pantry and at local elementary schools.  Kariana plans to pursue her degree in History at the University of Virginia’s College at Wise.  Her overall goal is to achieve a doctorate in History.

Tiffany Reedy, of Marion Senior High School, is the daughter of Roger and Mariann Reedy of Rural Retreat and ranks 2^nd in her class with a GPA of 4.4.  She is a leader for organizations including the Beta club and the Youth Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Project.  She has volunteered at Marion Primary School and served as a youth tutor and athletic coach.  Tiffany plans to continue her education at Virginia Tech with a major in Dairy Science that will lead her into veterinary school to become a large animal vet.  The Chamber of Commerce is pleased to congratulate these very deserving young ladies on all of their accomplishments. 

The Annual Dinner meeting concluded with the recognition of Top Level Members, the 2009 President, David Rhea, and the President -Elect for 2010, Henderson Graham, and the Board of Directors.

Growing Sales Seminar
November 5, 2009

Sally Morgan, with Smyth County Economic Development, addresses the seminar.

The Chamber of Commerce of Smyth County, Inc. joined forces with Smyth County Economic Development, The Virginia Economic Bridge, and Virginia Department of Business Assistance to present a free Growing Sales Seminar on November 5^th at the Smyth Career and Technology Center in Seven Mile Ford. 

The seminar provided information and resources for business owners who are looking for opportunities to expand their customer base and grow their businesses.  Buyers representing government entities including VDOT, the National Forest Service, state correctional facilities, Virginia Tech, and Smyth County Schools were in attendance.  The 30 attendees were given opportunities to ask questions and network with other buyers and business owners.  Seminar lectures included discussion about using the eVA registration system to discover government needs and provide bids, as well as how and why business become SWAM certified.  In addition, organizations such as People, Inc. were available to provide advice about their assistance with business development plans and financing.  The half-day seminar came to a close with a networking lunch catered by the students in the Culinary Arts program at the Smyth Career and Technology Center, under the instruction of Cary Sauls. 

Town and Country BBQ
August 20, 2009


Chamber President, David Rhea, presented Kelly Baker with the Children First Award.

The Chamber of Commerce of Smyth County presented numerous awards at its annual Town and Country Barbecue.  The event was held on August 20, 2009 at the Chilhowie Land Company’s airplane hanger.  Awards were named to the following: 

Outstanding FFA Member: Gabby Poe

Outstanding FCCLA Member:  Beth Smith

Outstanding FBLA Member: Chelsea Morris

Outstanding 4-H Member: Chris Testerman

Businessperson of the Year: Andy Blevins

Children First Award: Kelly Barker

Farm Family of the Year: Walter and Jane Robinson

In addition to the above awards, Donna Hamm was recognized in a special presentation.  She has served the community with her leadership and participation in the 4-H program for 30 years.

The Chamber of Commerce would like to thank all those who made donations and attended for their help in making  this event a success!

Fishing Tournament & Outdoor Expo                                                   Bike Smyth County                                                                              June 6, 2009

The Chamber of Commerce of Smyth County would like to thank everyone who participated on Saturday, June 6 in the 2009 Fishing Tournament & Outdoor Expo and Bike Smyth County at Hungry Mother State Park.  Both events were a great success.   

This event was held during the Free Fishing Weekend in Virginia and no license was required.  The tournament had about 70 participants.  Fishing Tournament trophies were presented to the winner in three age categories:  7 & under, 8-15 years, and 16 & over.  Winners were based on the weight of a single fish. The winners were as follows: 7 & under: James Conley, 8-15 years: Crystal Croy, 16 & over: Ashley Brown.  Overall, the largest fish (4 lbs 13 oz, 21.25”) was caught by Crystal Croy.  After a drawing, numerous prizes were also presented to participants.                                  

The Bike Smyth County participants had a choice of two routes, a family ride or an advanced ride.  The family ride was about an 18 mile ride down Walkers Creek Road and Wassum Valley, then back to the park.  The advanced riders proceeded onto Cleghorn Valley Road and came back to the park via Porter Valley Road for a total of over 30 miles.            

The Chamber of Commerce would like to thank Hungry Mother State Park for their continued support with this event and look forward to working together in the future! 

Business Appreciation Breakfast                                                           May 13, 2009

The Chamber of Commerce of Smyth County, Inc. held their annual Business Appreciation Breakfast on Wednesday, May 13, 2009 at the General Francis Marion Hotel in Marion, VA.  This is the Chamber’s way of saying “thank you” to Smyth County Industries and Businesses for what they do for our community.     

This year’s theme, “Caring for our Community,” was carried out by Rhiannon Powers, Executive Director of United Way of Smyth County, telling about how our business and industry community supports United Way and makes it possible for hundreds of our citizens to receive the help they need.  

Stephanie Taylor, Abingdon office manager of Virginia Department of Business Assistance, gave a short talk about help that is available through their office.  Each person present was then given the opportunity to introduce themselves and tell a little about their business.  Most were optimistic that things had bottomed out and a turn around was near.                                                                                                              

The Chamber of Commerce would like to thank Mrs. Sally Morgan, Smyth County Economic Development leader for her work with the program and her overview of the county’s growth and development.  We also would like to thank all those who attended the event!

Student Government Day                                                                    April 23, 2009

The Chamber of Commerce of Smyth County, Inc. held the Annual Youth Government Day on Thursday, April 23, 2009.  Smyth County high school seniors visited local organizations and governmental offices to observe activities and programs that are unique and meaningful to our area. This event helps students develop an appreciation of how government and business operate to benefit our population. By shadowing participants, students were able to learn the functions of some of the agencies in our county and to ask any questions. 

This year’s guest speakers were Dr. Charlie White, President of Wytheville Community College and Mr. David Matlock, Vice President of Institutional Advancement at Virginia Highlands Community College.  Both spoke with the students about the importance of furthering their education beyond high school.  They also spoke about the advantages of attending local community colleges as well as financial aid options to help students that think they can’t afford to go to college. 

The Chamber of Commerce would like to thank each participant for their involvement in this year’s event. This is an invaluable exposure for the students and reinforces their classroom experiences. We look forward to working with each of you in the future.

Entrepreneur Express Workshop                                                       March 19, 2009

Business owners and potential entrepreneurs from Smyth County and the surrounding area attended the third annual Entrepreneur Express: Moving Your Business Forward, a workshop designed to provide information on available business resources and deliver practical, hands-on training covering key elements of business practice. The event was sponsored by the Smyth County Chamber of Commerce and was held on Thursday, March 19 from 9 am until noon at the Smyth Career and Technology Center, Seven Mile Ford, Virginia.  Admission was free and lunch was provided. Pre-registration for the workshop was required. 

Workshop segments included information on how to start and operate a business, growing an existing business, marketing strategies, financing and other available resources. Participants received a resource directory that will provide “how to” information for many types of businesses including tourism related businesses, agricultural businesses, retail operations, and service businesses.  Similar workshops were held in 2006 and 2007 in Smyth County with good attendance of about 30 participants each time.               

Several organizations partnered to offer this event as part of a series of workshops supporting entrepreneurial efforts throughout the Commonwealth, including the Virginia Department of Business Assistance, the Virginia Tourism Corporation, Virginia Cooperative Extension, the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network, SCORE, the Virginia Electronic Commerce Technology Center, the Virginia Economic Bridge, the Virginia Economic Developers Association, the Virginia Business Incubator Association, the Virginia Community College System and the Virginia Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. 

For more information about business assistance, please contact Sandy Ratliff at the Virginia Department of Business assistance or visit www.vastartup.org