Smith Mountain Lake Visitor Center Reopens May 21
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce (SMLRCC) announced the reopening of the Smith Mountain Lake Visitor Center, which it operates, on Thursday, May 21, to coincide with the Governor’s recent phase one opening of the state. “We wanted to reopen the Visitor Center to support and serve visitors and the greater Smith Mountain Lake business community in advance of the Memorial Day weekend,” stated Christopher Finley, SMLRCC executive director. “We have
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Regional Leaders Come Together to Support #StrongerTogetherSML campaign
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – Nearly 30 community leaders from across the region including County Administrators, Board of Supervisors, CEOs and small business owners, came together to support the #StrongerTogetherSML campaign, an initiative spearheaded by the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce (SMLRCC). #StrongerTogetherSML launched in March at the start of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic to inspire residents and visitors to support local businesses in a variety of ways including
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
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
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
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 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
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
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
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
SMLRCC launches Small Business Saturday campaign
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, VA – 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 mission of the Chamber includes growing business for its members,”
SML Chili Festival winners announced for 2019
“Out of Balance Chili” created by the team from SunTrust Bank earned the top prize at the 17th Smith Mountain Lake Fall Chili and Craft Festival, which took place Nov. 2 at Bridgewater Plaza. “Virginians for Trump” finished second and “Sweet Whili” placed third in the blind judging, which was conducted by a member panel on the stage at Mango’s Bar & Grill. Winning chili was determined based on taste, consistency, aroma, color and bite, according to Christopher Finley, executive director of the Smith
Chamber News - October 2019
New executive director takes over at SML Regional Chamber Christopher Finley started as Executive Director of the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce on Oct. 28, replacing Vicki Gardner who stepped down in July after nearly 17 years with the organization. “I’m very excited about returning to Smith Mountain Lake and for the opportunity to drive tourism and grow business for the Chamber’s members and the community,” said Finley, who served on the SMLRCC Board of Directors from 2011
Christopher Finley named SML Regional Chamber of Commerce Executive Director
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce today named Christopher Finley as its new Executive Director. Finley replaces Vicki Gardner who stepped down in July after nearly 17 years at the helm of the 750-member organization. “We are thrilled to have Chris join the Chamber team,” said Lindsey Coley, Chair of the SMLRCC Board of Directors. “His marketing and public relations expertise, leadership experience and comprehensive knowledge of the Smith Mountain
Headed to the SML Wine Festival? Check out these tips
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – Smith Mountain Lake’s most popular annual event, the SML Wine Festival, is right around the corner and organizers are sharing tips for getting the most out of the experience. “The Wine Festival is an awesome event that takes year-round planning,” said Cheryl Ward, Interim Executive Director for the SML Regional Chamber of Commerce. “We want everyone to have a great time so we’re happy to share some of our best tips.” First, save money by buying tickets in advance at
SML Regional Chamber announces 2019 photo contest winners
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – The Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce today announced the winners of its 2019 photo contest. The grand prize of $300 was awarded to David B. Pope for his image entitled “Tight Turn” featuring a woman water skiing. Amy Hunter’s “Wavy Clouds over Bernard’s Landing,” a photo of rare Kelvin-Helmholtz clouds that went viral in June, took second ($150). Kathleen Riordan earned honorable mention ($50) for “Section 8 Fog.” “We were absolutely blown away by
Chamber News - August 2019
Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival Discounted tickets are now on sale for the 31st Annual Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival, which will take place Sept. 28-29 at Crazy Horse Marina. Save $10 on each taster and non-taster ticket by logging on to visitsmithmountainlake.com or visiting the SML Visitor Center at Bridgewater Plaza or the Bedford Visitor Center. They’re also available at most area Kroger stores. A limited number of “shade chalets” and VIP Lounge tickets also are available for
YO HO HO! Pirates descend on Smith Mountain Lake for pancake breakfast
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – More than 200 landlubbers turned out on July 21 for the first Pirates & Pancakes event on the patio at Mango’s Bar & Grill at Bridgewater Plaza. The family-oriented pancake breakfast was organized by the Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce as part of Pirate Days, a weekend of festivities that took place at various locations on and off the lake. “What a great way to kick off this new event,” said Vicki Gardner, the Chamber’s executive director. “Pirates
2019 Take Pride in Smith Mountain Lake campaign nets nearly double last year's debris total
SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Virginia – Community volunteers collected approximately 84,000 pounds (42 tons) of debris as part of Take Pride in Smith Mountain Lake cleanup days, according to the final 2019 collection report released today. According to Lorie Smith, one of the event’s organizers, the amount is nearly double what was collected last year. “We got an earlier start on planning and increased our marketing efforts, which really help build awareness for how important these annual cleanup days
