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,
Chamber launches campaign to encourage local holiday shopping
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, VA – The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce (SMLRCC) is promoting the importance of shopping local this holiday by rallying retailers to participate in Small Business Saturday on Nov. 28. Now in its 11th year, Small Business Saturday is a national movement organized by American Express that helps bring communities together in support of small businesses the Saturday after Thanksgiving. “Every dollar kept local is an investment in the success of area businesses, the
Chamber announces launch of new SML tourism email newsletter
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, VA – The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce (SMLRCC) announced today it has developed a tourism email newsletter that is being marketed to a growing list of thousands of interested subscribers. According to SMLRCC Executive Director Christopher Finley, the monthly email highlights the Smith Mountain Lake region’s top activities and events, in addition to spotlighting Chamber members. Subscribers include those who previously requested the annual Smith Mountain Lake
SML Chili Festival and SML Drive-In Concert Cancelled
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – Due to a reported uptick in cases and concerns surrounding the spread of coronavirus, the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce (SMLRCC) announced the cancellation of its final two events including the SML Drive-In Concert scheduled for October 23 and the annual SML Chili Festival scheduled on November 7. Individuals who purchased tickets will be refunded in full. The festival and concert join a lengthy list of events that have been cancelled this year
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 Wine Festival cancelled due to COVID-19 concerns
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – Officials with the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce (SMLRCC) announced the cancellation of the 32nd Annual Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival scheduled for September 26-27 at Mariners Landing because of concerns with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The uncertainty surrounding state regulations coupled with the ability to comply with current mandatory requirements for social gatherings dictated this decision. “We sincerely held out as long as possible
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
County Administrator Keynote Speaker at Chamber Event
Franklin County Administrator Christopher Whitlow served as the keynote speaker during the recent Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce (SMLRCC) monthly Franklin County Connects networking event for members at The Grand at 290 in Rocky Mount on July 8. During his presentation, Whitlow provided an overview of the recently passed budget and the resources Franklin County has instituted during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, Whitlow provided updates on the County’s strategic plan as well as
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
SMLRCC ramps up membership and community outreach initiatives
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, VA - Like the many businesses and organizations it serves and represents, the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce is finding new ways to operate while navigating restrictions caused by the outbreak of novel coronavirus. According to Executive Director Christopher Finley, the SMLRCC remains active and engaged, dedicated to helping members overcome the challenges brought on by the crisis. “The collective chamber community across Virginia, our region and the nation
The Landing Restaurant launches hot meals dinner delivery service for at-risk families and seniors
Moneta, Va. (March 18, 2020) – Bruno and Tiffany Silva, owners of The Landing Restaurant, recently announced The Landing Love Project, a hot meals dinner delivery service for local at-risk families and seniors throughout the greater Smith Mountain Lake region. “We are currently working with several local schools and organizations to identify those in immediate need,” stated Tiffany Silva, General Manager. “As of today, we have 28 families that we will begin to serve starting Friday, March
Organizers cancel Take Pride in SML Cleanup Days
Organizers of Take Pride in Smith Mountain Lake, SML's annual spring cleanup initiative, announced today organized events have been cancelled amid concerns related to coronavirus (COVID-19).“We extend our sincere thanks to volunteers, committee members and sponsors who were primed to help with this important community event,” said John Rupnik, president of the Smith Mountain Lake Association (SMLA), which organizes the campaign in collaboration with theTri-County Lakes Administrative Commission
Attorneys showcase broad service offerings at SML Connects
Representatives of Gilbert, Bird, Sharpes & Robinson Attorneys showcased to members of the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce on Feb. 27 the extensive array of legal services offered by the longtime lake-area business. GBSR hosted SML Connects, a breakfast networking event, to share information about the services the firm conducts for clients, which include family law and divorce, estate planning and elder law, traffic defense, real estate law, personal injury, civil trial practice, criminal
SML Regional Chamber officials announce 2020 Ambassador Council
The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce today announced its 2020 Ambassador Council. The 12-member council assists with a number of critical functions of the organization, according to SMLRCC Executive Director Christopher Finley. "Working in conjunction with Laura Moritz, our community relations manager, ambassadors serve as liaisons and mentors," Finley said. "They welcome new businesses and lay the groundwork for a successful relationship." In addition, he explained, ambassadors connect
Take Pride in Smith Mountain Lake Organizers announce 2020 dates
Take Pride in Smith Mountain Lake, SML's annual cleanup initiative, will take place throughout the month of May with organized events scheduled for the first three Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Neighborhood groups, businesses, families, civic organizations and others may participate in any of the organized events or, as in the past, plan their own Take Pride cleanup for any date in May. “Participation last year was up significantly so we hope to continue that trend for this important community event,”
Chamber Roundup - February 2020
2020 SML Visitor Guide now available Stop by the Visitor Center at Bridgewater Plaza to pick up a free copy of the 2020 Smith Mountain Lake Newcomer and Visitor Guide! This beautiful, full-color magazine includes comprehensive information on living at and visiting Smith Mountain Lake, including shopping, dining, lodging, events, activities and real estate. The Visitor Center is open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. ON SALE: Wine
Chamber officials release 2020 SML Newcomer and Visitor Guide
Nearly 200 members of the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce got a first-hand look at the 2020 Smith Mountain Lake Newcomer and Visitor Guidewhen it was unveiled Feb. 20 during Business After Hours at The Copper Kettle. “The Smith Mountain Lake Newcomer & Visitor Guide is a high-demand fulfillment piece and a critical component of our marketing strategy that the Chamber uses to promote the region year-round,” stated Christopher Finley, executive director. “From engaging stories to new
SML Regional Chamber selects new venue for wine festival
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – The Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival, the region’s largest and most popular annual event, will move to Mariners Landing for 2020, organizers announced today. “We are excited about the opportunities this impressive venue will present for both vendors and attendees,” said Christopher Finley, Executive Director of the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber, which hosts the event. Now in its 32nd year, the festival will take place Sept. 26-27. Mariners Landing is a
Grant awards for broadband expansion announced for Bath and Rockbridge counties
Staunton, VA – Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam announced Wednesday more than $18.3 million in grants through the Virginia Telecommunication Initiative (VATI) to support 12 projects across Virginia, including the “BARC Connects Rockbridge and Bath Counties” project submitted by the Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission (CSPDC). The multi-jurisdictional project is a collaborative effort between Bath County, Rockbridge County, the CSPDC and BARC Electric Cooperative (BARC) to help bridge the digital
SML Regional Chamber of Commerce leaders meet with state legislators
RICHMOND, Virginia – Representatives of the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce participated with other business and tourism leaders from around the Commonwealth at Chamber Day at the Capitol Jan. 23 in Richmond. The annual event, organized by the Virginia Chamber of Commerce, provides Chamber executives with personal briefings from Virginia’s top government leaders and legislators. “This forum allows Chamber members and executives an opportunity to convey our organization’s position,
Chamber Roundup - January 2020
Now is a great time to join the Chamber! If you’re a business owner looking to strengthening public awareness of your company and become an integral part of SML’s thriving professional community, we invite you to join the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce. With more than 700 members, the SMLRCC provides a steady stream of networking and referral programs to support its mission to promote tourism and grow business. Some of the many year-round benefits of membership include:Vast
Smith Mountain Project property owners should be aware of dredging deadline
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Va., Jan. 21, 2020 – The four-month ban on dredging within Smith Mountain Project lake boundaries begins next month. Dredging by property owners at Smith Mountain and Leesville lakes is typically done to remove sediment and debris from the bottom of the lake to increase water depth. To protect fish habitat during spawning season, dredging within the lakes’ boundaries is prohibited yearly between Feb. 15 and June 15. Dan Wilson, fisheries biologist with the Virginia Department of
SML Chamber names award winners for year, decade
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – Outstanding area businesses and community advocates were honored by the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce at its annual dinner, which took place Jan. 16 at The Waterfront Country Club. “We congratulate these businesses for their awards as well as the finalists in each respective category. They serve as an inspiration for us all as they are achievers, advocates and visionaries,” said Christopher Finley, SMLRCC Executive Director. “These companies are
SML Chamber announces 2020 Board of Directors
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – Christopher Finley, Executive Director of the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce, introduced the 2020 Board of Directors and Executive Committee and thanked outgoing board members at the organization's annual appreciation dinner on Jan. 16 at The Waterfront Country Club. “I'm excited about the skills and experience our 2020 Executive Committee and Board of Directors bring to the organization,” Finley said. “Each member reflects the diverse makeup of our
Chamber Roundup - December 2019
Season’s Greetings! The staff, volunteers and Board of Directors for the SMLRCC would like to wish you a very happy holiday season. Please note our offices and the Visitor Center will be closed Dec. 22-Jan. 1. See you in the new year! Holiday luncheon Volunteers, ambassadors and staff of the Chamber enjoyed lunch and a gift exchange at their annual holiday celebration on Dec. 6 at The Westlake Golf & Country Club. “We are so grateful for your enthusiasm and dedication throughout
SML Antique and Classic Boat Society holds annual meeting
The Smith Mountain Lake Chapter of the Antique and Classic Boat Society held its annual dinner meeting on Friday, December 6, 2019, at The Blackwater Café. Chapter President Alan Frederick reviewed the year’s activities and presented a slate of officers for 2020. In addition, Christopher Finley the new Executive Director of the Regional Chamber of Commerce was a guest speaker, outlining his vision for the organization. Smith Mountain Lake Chapter Officers and Directors for
SMLRCC names new Events Director
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce today announced Cheryl Ward has been named to the position of Events Director. According to Executive Director Christopher Finley, Ward will be responsible for the planning and execution of all SMLRCC annual events, including the Business Expo, Pirate Days and the Wine Festival. “Cheryl brings a vast network of community connections and a wealth of experience to the Chamber, including a strong background in finance,”
Chamber News - November 2019
Shop Smith Mountain Lake this holiday season The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce is promoting the importance of shopping local this holiday season with a social media campaign leading up to Small Business Saturday on Nov. 30. Now in its 10th year, Small Business Saturday is a national movement organized by American Express that helps bring communities together in support of small businesses on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. The Chamber’s campaign includes a Facebook
