Return to Earn Program Now Available to Businesses Located in SML Region
Roanoke, VA – On June 11, 2021, Governor Ralph Northam announced the Return to Earn grant program which is designed to assist small businesses with providing new hires up to $1,000 to support their transition back into the workforce. This initiative has provided $105,624 for small businesses located within the Counties of Alleghany, Botetourt, Craig, Franklin, or Roanoke or the Cities of Covington, Roanoke, or Salem. The Western Virginia Workforce Development Board will be administering the funding
SML Regional Chamber Names New Executive Director
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce today named Andy Bruns as its new Executive Director. Bruns replaces Christopher Finley who resigned in March to take a position with LewisGale Regional Health System. “The Chamber will be in excellent hands with Andy at the helm,” said Zach Wimmer, Chairman of the SMLRCC Board of Directors. “He has extensive leadership experience having spearheaded marketing and media organizations across the country for
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Winner announced in $2,500 Smith Mountain Lake Getaway Sweepstakes
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, VA – The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce today announced the winner of its first $2,500 Getaway Sweepstakes, a two-month marketing initiative designed to showcase the lake region to potential visitors and generate excitement for the upcoming tourism season. According to SMLRCC Interim Executive Director Cheryl Ward, James S. of Millers Creek, North Carolina, had his name drawn at random from the 5,861 eligible entries. He will receive $2,500 worth of prizes
Bridgewater Marina to highlight National Safe Boating Week
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, VA – Bridgewater Marina and Boat Rentals announced today it will direct a social media campaign aimed at promoting National Safe Boating Week, which is scheduled for May 22-28. “This campaign runs annually just before Memorial Day weekend, which makes it an ideal time to remind boaters of safety and etiquette basics,” said Ryan Waters, Bridgewater Marina partner. “We know people are eager to get out on Smith Mountain Lake to enjoy the summer season, but it’s imperative they do so in
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Bridgewater Marina's ''Feed the Fish'' program reels in nearly $20,000 for Make-A-Wish Foundation
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – Despite the global pandemic that restricted travel and gatherings in 2020, Bridgewater Marina & Boat Rentals donated nearly $20,000 to Make-A-Wish Greater Virginia via its “Feed the Fish for Make-A-Wish” fundraising campaign. Ryan Waters, Bridgewater Marina partner, said this was the fourth year for the initiative, which has generated more than $97,000 for the Richmond-based non-profit. The exact amount donated in 2020 was $19,978.“Make-A-Wish is an organization that’s
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Deadline approaching to enter $2,500 Smith Mountain Lake Getaway Sweepstakes
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, VA – Response to the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce’s first $2,500 Getaway Sweepstakes has been strong and expected to grow substantially as the May 2 deadline approaches, organizers announced today. According to SMLRCC Interim Executive Director Cheryl Ward, the tourism initiative is designed to showcase Smith Mountain Lake to potential visitors and generate excitement for the upcoming tourism season. “We’ve had tremendous response so far to the
SML Chamber to host inaugural Restaurant Week at Smith Mountain Lake
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, VA – The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce announced today it is organizing the first SML Restaurant Week, which will take place April 19-May 1. Throughout the week, diners may visit participating restaurants offering breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert specials at four different price points: $5, $10, $20 and $30. “The Chamber is excited to bring the first Restaurant Week to the greater Smith Mountain Lake community,” said Erin Stanley, SMLRCC Member Relations
News Release: 3/23/2021
PRESS RELEASE CONTACT: Becky Freemal, VP of Brand Phone: 540.488.5799 e-mail: beckyf@valleystar.org ValleyStar Credit Union announces first-ever chief experience officer Martinsville, Virginia (March 3, 2021) – ValleyStar Credit Union announces Karen DeSalvo as its first chief experience officer (CXO) to further the Credit Union’s vision “to improve the quality of life and the financial well-being of our members, community and employees.” Karen will directly oversee the leadership of the financial
SML Regional Chamber Announces 2021 Ambassador Council
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, VA – Twelve members of the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce have been selected to serve as ambassadors for the organization for 2021. “Ambassadors are critical to the operations of the Chamber,” said Erin Stanley, SMLRCC Member Relations and Events Director. “In addition to helping to organize networking events, ribbon cuttings and other events, ambassadors assist with membership retention, welcome new businesses, oversee a group of members, and maintain a visible
SML Regional Chamber Honors Business and Community Leaders
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – Outstanding area businesses and community advocates were honored by the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce during a presentation on March 11 at the SML YMCA that was also broadcast online. “Congratulations to the winners, as well as the finalists in each category,” said Cheryl Ward, SMLRCC Interim Executive Director. “The past year has been extremely challenging and these leaders stepped up in big ways. They are truly making a significant impact on not only
SML Regional Chamber Releases 2021 Smith Mountain Lake Visitor Guide
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, VA – Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce officials unveiled the 2021 version of the Smith Mountain Lake Newcomer and Visitor Guide, a comprehensive publication used year-round to promote business and tourism. “This beautiful, full-color magazine offers the most extensive information on Smith Mountain Lake out there,” said SMLRCC Interim Executive Cheryl Ward during a presentation on March 11 at the SML YMCA that also honored the organization’s annual award winners.
SML Chamber Names New Member Relations and Events Manager
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce (SMLRCC) today announced Erin Stanley will join the organization as its member relations and events manager on March 1. “We are very excited to welcome Erin to the team in a time when she is needed most,” said SMLRCC Executive Director Christopher Finley. “She comes to the Chamber with 13 years of experience in account management and valuable expertise in marketing and branding that will truly benefit our members as
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SML Chamber launches $2,500 Smith Mountain Lake Getaway Sweepstakes
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, VA – The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce announced today it has launched a contest to market the region as a tourist destination in surrounding markets. The Smith Mountain Lake Getaway Sweepstakes will offer one lucky winner more than $2,500 in prizes, including accommodations, boat rental and restaurant gift certificates. “This new initiative is designed to showcase the best of Smith Mountain Lake to potential visitors and generate excitement for the upcoming
Chamber sets record-breaking 2021 Chamber Champions program
The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce (SMLRCC) today announced a record-breaking number of participants and investment in its 2021 Chamber Champions program, a sponsorship investment platform offering local businesses year-round marketing exposure and a variety of value-added enhanced member benefits. “The Champions platform offers participants efficient use of marketing dollars through a wide range of digital tools, web presence and community support recognition,” said SMLRCC Executive
Whole Foods Cafe and Personal Training Business Among New Offerings at Mariners Landing
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – Mariners Landing officials announced today the addition of two new businesses, part of an extensive, ongoing redevelopment to the 1,000-acre waterfront resort community. LAT Personal Training is operational in the 15,000-square-foot Mariners Landing Wellness Center, which includes a gym, indoor pool, studio space for exercise classes and locker rooms. Opening soon inside will be Tootie’s Smoothies + Toasts, a cafe focused on nourishing whole foods such as smoothies, açaí
Chamber Announces New 2021 Chairman and Board
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce (SMLRCC) today named Zach Wimmer as Chairman and announced the 2021 Board of Directors that will lead the organization in its mission of promoting tourism and growing business for its members and the community. "I’m looking forward to working with the entire board and the Chamber’s staff as we continue to serve our members and the Smith Mountain Lake community and three surrounding counties,” stated Wimmer. Wimmer has
Chamber Welcomes 14 Professionals to Inaugural Leadership Academy
Chamber Welcomes 14 Professionals to Inaugural Leadership Academy SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce (SMLRCC) welcomed 14 professionals in its inaugural Smith Mountain Lake (SML) Leadership Academy, a 12-month program designed to educate, connect, and inspire existing and emerging community leaders. The SML Leadership Academy kicked off on Jan. 6 at The Franklin Center for Advanced Learning and Enterprise in Rocky Mount and featured a half-day
Mariners Landing releases strong real estate report
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – Mariners Landing Resort at Smith Mountain Lake today released a strong real estate report, indicating restructuring operations by the new developer is paying off. The study was conducted by Blacksburg-based Institute for Service Research (ISR) on behalf of Mariners Landing Development Company (MLDC), which purchased the resort in May. It analyzed volume of real estate transactions, average days on market, list price vs. sales price and sold price per square foot for
The Landing Love Project receives $100,000 matching gift donation from Michelle and David Baldacci
Smith Mountain Lake, Va. (November 20, 2020) – Bruno and Tiffany Silva, owners of The Landing Restaurant and The Landing Love Project, announced it has received a $100,000 dollar matching gift donation from David and Michelle Baldacci, to expand on the hot meals dinner delivery service for local at-risk families and seniors throughout the greater Smith Mountain Lake region and surrounding counties. “The Landing Love Project is humbled by this generous financial contribution from the Baldaccis as it will
Antique and Classic Boat Society Fall Workshop
The SML Chapter of the Antique and Classic Boat Society recently held their annual fall workshop at the home of Alan and Jean Frederick. Several subjects were demonstrated that relate to the care and maintenance of wooden boats. Lunch was served outside with appropriate social distancing following the lectures. For further chapter information contact Chapter President Dave Olson at (540) 719-1216 or email: dave.olson46@gmail.com.
Chamber Receives Virginia Tourism Corporation Recovery Marketing Leverage Grant
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce (SMLRCC) has received $20,000 from the Virginia Tourism Corporation’s (VTC) Recovery Marketing Leverage Program (RMLP), designed to help local and regional tourism entities attract more visitors by leveraging limited local marketing dollars through a local match of the state grants funds. More than $1.9 million in matching grant funds were awarded to 161 local tourism initiatives through this program. This funding cycle,
Chamber Releases 2021 Public Policy Agenda
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce (SMLRCC) today released its 2021 Public Policy Agenda outlining the Chamber’s legislative priorities on issues important to businesses and the advancement of the greater Smith Mountain Lake region. The Public Policy Agenda, approved by the Chamber’s 18-member Board of Directors, is established annually by the Governmental Affairs Committee, which is comprised of 12 volunteer community leaders along with SMLRCC staff,
Smith Mountain Lake Leadership Academy Announced
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce today announced the launch of its inaugural Smith Mountain Lake Leadership Academy, a 12-month program designed to educate emerging leaders and help shape the future of Smith Mountain Lake. The Smith Mountain Lake Leadership Academy is structured to offer participants the opportunity to meet and learn from this area’s most prominent leaders from a variety of business sectors, according to Christopher Finley, executive
Chamber Announces SML Drive-In Concert
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce (SMLRCC) today announced plans for a SML Drive-In Concert at Eastlake Community Church on Oct. 23. The SML Drive-In Concert, presented by Xfinity, will be headlined by Liquid Pleasure and will feature Jo Jo Stockton & SOLACUSTIX as the opening act. Tickets will be sold in the form of a group car pass. Each car will purchase just one ticket, good for a maximum of four (4) people per car. Gates open at 4 p.m. with the
Waid Park Sprint Enduro and VA Short Track XC Championship Race Announced
Rocky Mount, Virginia – Officials with the Franklin County Parks and Recreation and the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce (SMLRCC) announced a new Waid Park Sprint Enduro and VA Short Track XC championship race. The event is scheduled for Saturday, October 17, 2020, at Waid Park in Rocky Mount. Pre-registration is required and open online at https://www.bikereg.com/waidenduro. “We are very excited to bring this new recreational event to Franklin County and the mountain bike racing
New Visit Smith Mountain Lake Travel Blog
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce (SMLRCC) announced the launch of a new Visit Smith Mountain Lake travel blog, a monthly forum that will feature unique local experiences, upcoming events, and more about Smith Mountain Lake. The new Visit Smith Mountain Lake travel blog is available online at https://www.visitsmithmountainlake.com/blog/. “Our goal is for the blog to engage visitors and offer readers a peak into our world-class historical sites, unique
Smith Mountain Lake Invitational Golf Tournament Winners Announced
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia –The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce (SMLRCC) welcomed 112 participants in the annual Smith Mountain Lake Invitational Golf Tournament on Friday, August 28, at The Westlake Golf and Country Club in Hardy. “There were 28 teams represented at the Smith Mountain Lake Invitational and the tournament was a great opportunity for members to network, have fun and grow their business,” stated Christopher Finley, executive director. “Congratulations to winning teams
Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce Unveils Newest LOVEwork
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce (SMLRCC) today unveiled a new LOVE artwork, now on display at the Smith Mountain Lake Visitor Center located at Bridgewater Plaza, a popular tourist destination in Moneta. The LOVEworks program is a state-wide branding initiative designed to promote travel in Virginia and strengthen awareness of the “Virginia is for Lovers” message. The new Smith Mountain Lake LOVEwork is one of more than 200+ LOVE letters, including
SML Regional Chamber Receives Virginia Tourism Corporation Grant
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce (SMLRCC) has received $9,995 from the Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC) DMO WanderLove Recovery Grant Program, a new grant made available to Virginia’s Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) across the Commonwealth that have been heavily impacted by the novel coronavirus pandemic to fund recovery marketing initiatives. $866,504 in marketing grant funds were awarded to 90 Destination Marketing Organizations as part of the
Smith Mountain Lake Invitational Golf Tournament Rescheduled Date Announced
Smith Mountain Lake Invitational Golf Tournament Rescheduled Date Announced SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce (SMLRCC) announced registration is now open for its rescheduled annual Smith Mountain Lake Invitational Golf Tournament on Friday, August 28, at The Westlake Golf and Country Club in Hardy. “The annual Smith Mountain Lake Invitational Golf Tournament is an excellent way to showcase companies, meet new business prospects and entertain top
Bridgewater Marina's Feed the Fish program nets more than $28,000 for Make-A-Wish Greater Virginia
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – Bridgewater Marina & Boat Rentals recently donated $28,327 to Make-A-Wish Greater Virginia, the culmination of the 2019 “Feed the Fish for Make-A-Wish” fundraising campaign. Ryan Waters, Bridgewater Marina partner, said this was the third year of the initiative, and it’s most successful to date. “We continue to be amazed by the generosity of customers and their dedication to supporting the important work of Make-A-Wish,” Waters said. “To date, they’ve allowed us to
