Chamber Awards Gala and Regional Economic Development

FREDERICKSBURG
REGIONAL BUSINESS
THE REGION’S PREMIER BUSINESS PUBLICATION Volume 1 Issue 2
February 2015
– 2015 GALA PHOTOS ON PAGES 12-13 –
Legislative Update 10
Military Brieﬁng 16
Transportation 17
Economic Development –
Selling the Fredericksburg
Region at home and abroad
Economic Development
Leaders in the Region

FEBRUARY 2015 Fredericksburg Regional Business 3
By Susan Spears
It was last fall when we received confirmation that we had our
Title Sponsor – BB&T Bank – for the 2015 Annual Awards and
Gala. Once that terrific news was in, the usual flurry of activity
began – booking the venue, deciding on a theme, contacting
the awards committee, booking a band, etc.
With her usual flair, Member Services Director Whitney Watts
worked with an energetic group of member volunteers who
cheerfully brought in unique and wonderful items for our
Silent Auction. Indeed, the excitement started early as our
office phones seemed to ring off the hook with folks lining up
to be part of this prestigious annual occasion.
A strong delegation of our elected officials ranging from federal
to local offices signed up to attend. A significant number of
Chamber Trailblazers joined us this year and they were side-by-
side with an unprecedented number of new members. Before
we knew it there was once again a significant “buzz” in the community about the Annual
Awards and Gala.
We could not be more proud to know how much you – our members – enjoy attending this
signature event every year.
We love that you enjoy coming together and pausing for a moment to recognize small and large
Chamber businesses that exceled in 2014; to recognize an entrepreneur who has persevered
in a tough economic climate; to highlight an outstanding nonprofit that has had a significant
positive impact on the community.
It’s beautiful that your Chamber takes time to thank a business for maximizing opportunities
to utilize “green” practices. And it speaks volumes of your love of community when you stand
to recognize a dedicated community leader who has devoted countless energy and resources
to our region – with the highest ethical standards – over a long period of time.
We took a moment to thank our outgoing chairman of the board of directors, Mike Fidgeon,
and officially welcome our new chairman, Greg Calvert.
And then we put our dancing shoes on. Rumor has it that some of you (I won’t name names)
tore up the dance floor while others enjoyed sparkling conversation that may or may not have
been all about business.
Truly, this celebration was a night to remember. I’m so
glad you were there to help us kick off what I know will
be another terrific year for the business community of
the Fredericksburg Region.
From the Desk of the President
Chamber Awards and Gala gives big start
to exciting New Year
Susan Spears is president and
CEO of the Fredericksburg
Regional Chamber of
Commerce.
FREDERICKSBURG
REGIONAL CHAMBER
2300 Fall Hill Ave., Suite 240
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
(540) 373-9400 Fax: (540) 373-9570
www.fredericksburgchamber.org
For advertising opportunities in Fredericksburg
Regional Business, contact Howard Owen at
Stafford Printing, (540) 659-4554 or
howen@staffordprinting.com.
MISSION
The mission of the Fredericksburg Regional
Chamber of Commerce is to build relationships
and create competitive advantages for a healthy
business environment.
INSIDE
5 Feature: Regional
Economic Development
8 Conversation with FRA
President Curry Roberts
9 Workforce NOW
10 Legislative Update:
State Sen. Bryce Reeves
12 Gala 2015
14 Spotlight:
Infinity Technologies
15 Spotlight:
Mary Washington
Healthcare
16 Military Briefing
17 On the Move:
CTB Member
Hap Connors
18 New Members
19 Chamber Members
in the News
22 Calendar
On the cover:
Economic development officials of the
Fredericksburg Region (front row, l-r)
Amy Peregoy, economic development
specialist, City of Fredericksburg;
M.C. Moncure, marketing manager,
Stafford County Economic
Development; (back row, l-r) Todd
Gillingham, vice president, FRA; Nick
Minor, manager, FRA; Tom Rumora,
director of economic development for
Spotsylvania County; FRA President
Curry Roberts.
Photograph by Robert A. Martin
Save the Dates
— March 5 —
State of the Chamber
— April 25 —
STEM 16 Summit

FEBRUARY 2015Fredericksburg Regional Business4
By Greg Calvert
Greetings! I hope you have gotten off to a good start in 2015.
It’s hard to believe that a month of the New Year has already
passed.
By the time you read this, the Chamber will have honored a
number of businesses and individuals for their leadership in
our community. Let me thank them – and all of you – for your
continuous efforts to make the Fredericksburg Region a better
place to live and work.
I am very excited about the opportunities that lie before the
Chamber this year.
Our annual Awards and Gala was just the first of many big
events we have scheduled for 2015.
I hope that you will regularly check the Chamber’s website
and social media pages to keep up with what we’re doing
to serve you. More than that, I want you to make time to
participate in the many events we have planned.
I cannot emphasize enough that your personal involvement
is fundamental to your enduring success. When you attend
Chamberevents,youhavethechancetomeetnewpeoplefrom
different sectors of the business community. Let me challenge
you to make 2015 the year
you consistently interact
with Chamber members
you don’t know well. After
a simple hello, it shouldn’t
take too long for you to find
mutual interests and perhaps
even discuss some shared
business challenges. It is those common threads that build the
relationships that eventually will benefit your businesses and
theirs.
I know from personal experience that getting to know fellow
Chamber members has been indispensable to the growth of
both my business and my ability to make a difference in our
community. The Chamber’s mission is to build relationships
and create competitive advantages for a healthy business
environment. I have experienced the networking opportunities
first-hand and our company has enjoyed the fruits of that
labor as we gained more business. I hope you will join me at
many Chamber networking events in 2015 as together, our
businesses thrive. Let’s make 2015 our best year ever!
Chairman’s Update
Make 2015 a breakout networking year
for you and your business
Greg Calvert is vice president of
the Kloke Group.
™

Continued to page 6
Economic Development – Selling the
Fredericksburg Region at home and abroad
Photo: Kenneth Lecky
Feature
“The Fredericksburg Region
offers a great variety of
investment opportunities including
large, shovel-ready parcels, as in
Caroline County, to sites for urban
commercial investment in the City
of Fredericksburg. With low taxes
and a great work force, Caroline
and the region are the right
choices for business location.”
Gary R. Wilson, Director, Caroline
County Economic Development &
Tourism
By George Whitehurst
“All the world’s a stage,” the Bard famously declared.
When it comes to economic development, it resembles a
chessboard.
Local and state government officials, and business and civic
leaders carefully position pieces on the board to attract
companies seeking new homes and to foster entrepreneurism.
A wrongly placed pawn can cost a region new jobs, additional
tax revenue and economic vitality.
In playing the game, localities must also strike a balance
between attracting outside companies and nurturing
homegrown enterprises.
In 2010, the City of Fredericksburg Economic Development
Authority granted $125,000 over five years to LibertyTown
Arts Workshop in order to retain and expand its operations in
the downtown business district.
In 2013, D.D. Lecky and her husband, Kenneth, purchased
the business and put the grant to quick use.
“We’ve been able to use the incentive program previously put
in place to expand our business line, hire some new employees
and make some courtyard improvements,” she said.
The quick expansion couldn’t have occurred without the
grant, Ms. Lecky said, noting that art-related businesses often
suffer during times of economic uncertainty.
“It would have been a much riskier venture. When there
are shifts in the economy, luxury goods are typically the first
things that go,” she said. “It’s enabled us to do a lot more
marketing… and be a little more aggressive than we would
have been normally. That’s huge. It’s good for small business.”
Stafford County’s Department of Economic Development
offers a variety of tools to help small businesses, including
production of a series of promotional web videos. John
McQuiddy, president of McQ Inc, offered kudos to Stafford
for providing this kind of marketing muscle.
“They commissioned and paid for a video on our company
that they distribute,” he said. “That’s materially good. As
a small business, you don’t have a budget to go out and
advertise. Here’s Stafford putting it not only on their website
but on YouTube.”
Chris Hornung, who chairs Fredericksburg’s EDA, describes
such grants and programs as a generally sound investment.
“The goal should always be to be sure you’re supporting your

Continued from page 5
Feature
Positioning King
George County for
the future
By Linwood Thomas
By all accounts, King George County
succeeded economically in 2014.
The largest single accomplishment was
the addition of Commercial Metals
Corporation, a Fortune 500 Company, and
the accompanying $12 million expansion
project that will bring critical infrastructure
improvements to the King George County
Industrial Park.
Other highlights include:
• The addition of 95,000 square feet of
new retail space.
• Assisting more than 50 small businesses
with their start-up and expansion
needs.
• The creation of an online quarterly
economic development and tourism
newsletter to promote King George.
• A new quarterly breakfast to spotlight
resources for small businesses.
All told, in 2014 the Department of Economic
Development worked 11 new projects
totaling more than 1 million square feet and
potential capital investments for the county
of more than $180 million.
Looking to 2015 and beyond, King George
County enjoys a number of advantages,
including modest business costs and some
of Virginia’s lowest tax rates.
Our strategic location between Washington,
D.C. and Richmond and between two
major shipping corridors – Interstate 95 and
U.S. Route 301 – ensures that half of the
nation’s population lives within one day’s
drive. Despite this prime location, land costs
remain reasonable.
To attract the best opportunities we must
continue to improve our utility infrastructure.
King George’s comprehensive growth plan
will deliver roughly a 49 percent return to
the tax base on the initial investment.
Today businesses seek plug-and-play sites
thatarereadytobreakground.Timeismoney,
after all. Those investments in infrastructure
will position King George County to attract
and retain new and existing businesses.
Linwood Thomas is King George County’s director
economic development.
existing businesses,” he said. “An existing business costs far less to keep
than attracting new businesses. They have a number of advantages. They
are typically locally owned, so the owners have a little bit more stake in the
community.”
That said, Mr. Hornung supports efforts by localities and regions to attract
outside investment.
“It’s also really important that we continue to increase the variety of and
diversity of the types of businesses we have in the city. There are a number
of businesses that would complement our city that are not expansions of
existing businesses,” he said, pointing to the technology sector as ripe for
development in the Fredericksburg Region.
Selecting industrial sectors that complement a region’s existing business base
requires the foresight of a chess master.
Maurice Jones, Virginia’s secretary of
commerce and trade, encourages regional
leaders to adopt this long-term view by
developing sound infrastructure, training the
local workforce, encouraging business start-
ups and creating a positive economic climate.
Regional cooperation, he declared, is the
most important tool of successful economic
development.
“To do economic development well in the 21st
century is a team sport. You’ve got to bring
to the table the most important assets from
the region,” he said. “What [businesses] want
is confidence they have a team to work with
at the state and local level to solve problems. If they have [that] confidence,
they’ll make the investment.”
Getting the chance to pitch the region to business leaders is the key, according
to Tom Rumora, Spotsylvania County’s director of Economic Development
and Tourism.
“Once we can show them where we are and they realize our location and
other advantages, the strengths of the region sell themselves,” he said.
“Besides our proximity to D.C., we have an excellent diverse workforce and
an affordable cost of living and doing business. It then becomes an easy
choice for business leaders to expand into the area.”
Applying scientific principles to an ever-changing free-market economy is
challenging. A region cannot – and should not try – to be all things to all
businesses.
In late 2013, the Fredericksburg
Regional Alliance commissioned
Chmura Economics and
Analytics to conduct a cluster
analysis to explore the business
sectors most compatible with
the area’s existing industrial
base.
That study proved useful
for Tim Baroody, Stafford
County’s director of Economic
Development and the team
at Stafford’s Department of
Economic Development and
Tourism.Virginia Economic Development Partnership.
Maurice Jones

Feature
Fredericksburg is the
core of a strong regional
economy
By Karen Hedelt & Bill Freehling
Fredericksburg packs a wealth of economic diversity into
10.2 square miles, creating a variety of opportunities for
business development.
Midway between Washington, D.C. and Richmond,
much of Fredericksburg’s identity and sense of place is
linked to its historic downtown.
Downtown’s walkability, history, trails, events, riverfront
location, parks, train station, retailers and restaurants
draw residents, visitors and businesses. Financial services
and legal firms have long been attracted downtown,
and an emerging startup culture is rising.
Fredericksburg’s Economic Development Authority and
Main Street Initiative have played key roles in improving
downtown’s look and feel, leading to low vacancy rates
and high levels of business and residential interest.
Mixed-use projects such as Parkview, Liberty Place,
Amelia Square and Mill District will bring more residents
downtown, attracting new businesses.
Economic development opportunities extend beyond
Fredericksburg’s historic district.
The University of Mary Washington and Mary
Washington Healthcare provide significant high-quality,
stable employment. They also stimulate business
expansion and investment.
The UMW Foundation has transformed the U.S. 1
corridor with its mixed-use Eagle Village project. The
Mary Washington Hospital campus has attracted many
additional medical offices and healthcare providers.
Government contractors enjoy Fredericksburg’s citywide
status as a HUBZone. The Battlefield Industrial Park
includes a commercial printing plant, an agritourism-
focused farm, recycling centers and many other industrial
firms. Central Park remains the region’s dominant retail
center and is the development of choice for national
retailers seeking a regional presence. Celebrate Virginia
South is anchored by Wegmans grocery store, and
additional tourism-centered development is on the
horizon.
Although redevelopment is a focus, Fredericksburg
has several greenfield opportunities that offer fresh
opportunities.
Fredericksburg’s economic development continues
its partnerships with economic development staff in
surrounding counties as well as organizations such as
the Fredericksburg Regional Alliance and Fredericksburg
Regional Chamber of Commerce to build upon the
tremendous assets already in place.
Karen Hedelt is the City of Fredericksburg’s director of
economic development and tourism. Bill Freehling is the city’s
assistant director for economic development.
In 2013, Chmura Economics & Analytics
conducted an industry cluster analysis for the
Fredericksburg Regional Alliance. The report
provided an overview of industry sectors with a
strong presence throughout the area.
Based on that data, Chmura recommended that
local economic developers focus on the following
six clusters as priority targets for recruitment and
home growth:
• Business Services
• Finance, Insurance, & Real Estate
• Health & Life Sciences
• Information & Communications
• Manufacturing
• Public Administration
Source: Chmura Economics & Analytics
“It really confirmed what we already knew – which is that our
workforce and existing business base is evolving,” he said.
“The analysis also helped us refine our business retention and
attraction marketing efforts, making them more laser focused
on pursuits that build on our current strengths.”
Not that the Fredericksburg Region’s localities are monolithic in
the types of businesses they seek. Indeed, Brian Baker, executive
director for economic development at University of Mary
Washington’s Center for Economic Development, praised the
localities for broad-based efforts to make the region attractive
to investment.
“There is good diversity of direction that, when seen in its
entirety, has great regional attraction,” he said.
He cited as examples Fredericksburg’s Main Street Initiative,
expansion of Germanna Community College in Spotsylvania,
the growth of Caroline County’s Meadow Event Park, King
George’s support of expansion at the Naval Surface Warfare
Center, and Stafford’s Technology and Research Park.
As the Fredericksburg Region escalates its business recruitment
efforts, it confronts robust competition from across the United
States and around the world.
Despite this, Mr. Jones offered a sunny outlook on economic
development prospects for the area and all of Virginia.
“In Virginia, we have an abundance of assets. We really are
a blessed commonwealth,” he said. “We’ve got great talent,
great infrastructure, great businesses, 23 community colleges,
an incredible veterans workforce…”
He tempered that optimism with a call for Virginia to develop
a broad economic vision that moves beyond its traditional
dependence on defense and government contracting.
“We are too reliant on the public sector for our job growth and
economic prosperity,” he said. “The job, for all of us who have
some influence, is to catalyze the private sector.”

Conversation With:
FRA President Curry Roberts
Curry Roberts serves as president of the Fredericksburg
Regional Alliance at the University of Mary Washington. He
has 30 years of non-profit, public and private-sector executive
experience. He joined FRA after serving as a principal with
Hirschler-Fleischer Consulting, LLC of Richmond.
Serving as Virginia’s Secretary of Economic Development
(now Commerce and Trade) under Gov. Gerald L. Baliles, Mr.
Roberts was responsible for oversight of 15 state agencies
covering agriculture, ports, industrial development, tourism,
OSHA and the arts. During his tenure, 400,000 new jobs were
created and 100 domestic and overseas companies located or
invested in Virginia.
Following his service in state government, Mr. Roberts
headed JWK Properties, Inc., a combination of diverse private
businesses valued at more than $100 million. He served as
president and CEO of the State Fair of Virginia through the
pivotal transition to its new home in Caroline County.
Mr. Roberts is a Bedford County native and a 1980 Virginia
Tech graduate.
Q: How has the economic development game changed
since you served as Gov. Gerald Baliles’ Secretary of
Economic Development?
A: “Like everything else, the Internet has changed how we do
business. The whole way you approach marketing has had to
shift into an information age. Site consultants do a lot of their
research online, and can rule a region in or out before anyone
knows there is a project. Two, regional alliances really didn’t exist
when I was secretary. There were only a couple of them. It was
really during Gov. Allen’s administration that the state began
encouraging regional cooperation on economic development.”
Q: Does the anonymity of online site prospecting
sometimes cost communities opportunities?
A: “Yes. On the other hand, because of the kind of data you
can get now, you can target your marketing to industries
where you have a competitive advantage. We would not be
competitive for lower-skill, lower-wage manufacturing. There
are all kinds of advanced manufacturing and distribution that
we could be competitive for. As a region, we have strengths
to market to industry clusters. So it is our job to put our region
before those clusters.”
Q: What is the benefit of collaboration between local
governments, private industry and institutes of
higher learning?
A: “They are pooling their resources. Prospects start by looking
at regions before they ever look at a locality or a site. Second,
the way the state provides opportunities, they put those through
a regional alliance. It’s our job to help develop initial responses
to requests for information from the Virginia Department of
Economic Development and directly from site consultants.
Another strong reason is we’re a public-private partnership
between the localities and businesses in the region. Fifty percent
of our funding comes from the localities, and the other 50 percent
comes from private-sector investment. So it’s an additional way
for localities to leverage their
marketing dollars.”
Q: What is the biggest
challenge the Fredericks-
burg Region faces as it
courts businesses from
across the country and
around the globe?
A: “I don’t see a big thing that
is a hurdle or impediment for
the region to put its best foot forward. It has so many assets,
that any negative I could come up with pales in comparison.
The one thing over the next year to two years … that we’re
going to be having discussions about is improving our
inventory of marketable sites that are shovel-ready.”
Q: What makes the Fredericksburg Region attractive to
those looking to relocate an existing business or start
a new company?
A: “We are within in a day’s drive of about 60 percent of the
country’s population and then we’re in the middle of the East
Coast. Even being between Washington and Richmond is a
tremendous geographic advantage for the region. Another is the
quality of the workforce. Thirty-two percent of the population in
the region has a bachelor’s degree or higher. I think the quality of
life here… you’ve got urban, suburban and rural options within the
region. That makes us a microcosm of Virginia has a whole. While
there are still some challenges with transportation, we have many
positive attributes from a transportation standpoint – interstate
highways, four-lane primary roads, rail, and two general aviation
airports. The educational system is also a tremendous asset.”
Q: What are the primary factors businesses consider
when scouting communities to which they might
want to relocate?
A: “Workforce. If you can’t get labor, you can’t operate.
Geography. It’s all location, location, location. Access to
transportation. Healthcare has jumped as something that’s
important. For a region this size to have two major healthcare
systems is very beneficial. Quality of life. And then, business
climate. Virginia has historically competed very well in terms
of business climate.”
Q: What is the proper balance between attracting
outside companies and encouraging the creation of
homegrown businesses?
A: “There are three legs to economic development. One is
encouraging entrepreneurship locally. The second is existing
industry expansion. How can we assist them in doing that? A
lot of the same incentives available for a new business coming
in are available to existing companies seeking to expand.
About 60-70 percent of the new jobs created are created
by existing business expansions on an annual basis. When
someone is looking to relocate to a region, they are going
to talk to existing businesses in that region. So your existing
businesses are your best references.”
Curry Roberts

Workforce NOW
Workshops offer vital skills
LastOctober,WorkforceNOWheldaProfessionalDevelopment
Series that offered needed skills for new and first-time
employees. Sheila Roberson of Roberson’s Music attended the
sessions, along with her employee, Ann Bulwinkle.
Ms. Roberson shared her thoughts during a recent Q&A with
Chamber member and Workforce NOW Board Member Leigh
Anne Van Doren.
Van Doren: What inspired you to enroll in the course?
Roberson: “Several of the titles struck me as being relevant
to my business. I signed up for all the classes since the pricing
worked out to be the equivalent of one free class. You can
always learn something.”
Van Doren: What is the most valuable thing you learned
from the course?
Roberson: “First, the various styles of leaders and personalities
and how to blend them to make a cohesive workplace. But
even more valuable was the course on better understanding of
the generational needs and styles. This was a big eye opener.”
Van Doren: How much time did the course take?
Roberson: “The course consisted of five mornings, once a
week, for two hours. There was half an hour of networking
at the start of each session. The sessions were Building Trust
in Relationships facilitated by Dr. Bob Kenney; Problem
Solving by taking the Initiative facilitated by Ray Gill; Team
Collaboration facilitated by James Potter; Generations in the
Workplace facilitated by Veronica Curry; and Tap into your
Leadership Style facilitated by Kim Rodenberg.”
Van Doren: What surprised you about the course?
Roberson: “I guess it would have to be that not more
people took advantage of professional development at such a
worthwhile investment.”
The next Workforce NOW Professional Development Series
will take place at 8 a.m. each Monday during March at the
Germanna Center for Workforce and Community Education.
Participants can earn CEUs and receive a Professional
Development Certificate upon completion of the series.
Individual sessions are $25. The cost of registering for all five
classes is $100.
For more information contact Sheri Wikert at
sheri@fredericksburgchamber.org or call (540) 373-9400.
2300 Fall Hill Avenue, Suite 415
Phone: 540.371.2402
Marketing Advertising Design Branding Research www.theMediaPartners.com
Contact us today and get your business moving.
Shawn Sloan Katharine Kammer
SSloan@theMediaPartners.com KKammer@theMediaPartners.com

By Sen. Bryce Reeves
This year’s legislative session started
fast and hasn’t slowed down. Short
sessions, like the one this year, tend to
move more briskly in order to handle
the volume of legislation, and there’s a
lot of legislation to consider.
Even before the deadline to file
legislation hit, the number of bills and
resolutions submitted had climbed
to over 2,000. That’s more than 14
pieces of legislation filed by the average
lawmaker.
You might be wondering if there are
more than 2,000 things wrong with
Virginia. The answer is “no.”
A lot of legislation is not filed to correct
things that are necessarily wrong. If
you examine bills filed by legislators,
many are items that require addressing
or attention, some dealing with the
operations of state agencies, some with
local governments, and some with our
courts and criminal justice system.
One of the underlying reasons for
the volume of legislation filed is that
Virginia’s government is structured in
a manner that requires the approval of
the people’s elected representatives –
the 100 delegates and 40 senators – to
enact changes.
Virginia’s governor has the power
to execute our laws and administer
state government, but the power to
determine what those laws are, and
how much is spent administering them
and delivering services, is reserved for
the General Assembly.
Of course, one of our main goals
in Richmond is to make it easier for
businesses to become established and
to flourish in the commonwealth. This
year there were many bills focusing
on tax credits for hiring veterans,
decreasing unnecessary regulations on
small businesses and creating more
incentives for businesses to move to
Virginia.
I would recommend that anyone
who wants to learn more about what
bills were presented and passed this
past session, please visit the website
for the General Assembly, www.
VirginiaGeneralAssembly.gov or our
legislation tracking website www.lis.
virginia.gov.
If my office can be of any assistance
to you or answer any questions you
may have, please reach out to us at
district17@senate.virginia.gov or (540)
645-8440.
Legislative Update
Business legislation takes center stage
in General Assembly session
State Sen. Bryce Reeves represents the
17th
District, which includes the City of
Fredericksburg; Orange County; and
portions of the counties of Spotsylvania,
Culpeper, Albemarle and Louisa.

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Gala 2015
Celebrating the Fredericksburg Region’s
business pacesetters
The Fredericksburg Regional Chamber
recently celebrated the contributions of
some of the region’s outstanding business leaders
at the 2015 Chamber Awards and Gala. Congratulations
to the winners, and thank you for your contributions to
the Fredericksburg Region!
Marstel-Day/Stafford Printing
Green Frontier Award
Michael Silver accepted the award
on behalf of his family, which has run
Silver Ridge Farm in southern Stafford
County for more than 100 years. Silver
Ridge has earned designations as a
Virginia Century Farm and a Virginia
Clean Water Farm. Its no-till, crop-
cover system enhances soil health and
makes it more drought resistant, as well as cutting
erosion and chemical runoff. In 2013, the Silver family
worked with Stafford County to place 88 acres of
historic, environmentally sensitive land into a Perpetual
Conservation Easement. Silver Ridge has taken steps to
prevent surface water contamination by its livestock
operations, as well as running an extensive recycling
operation.
Entrepreneur of the Year
Billie Armstrong, founder and owner of
Salon 730, won the Entrepreneur of the
Year Award, which recognizes a person
who successfully plans and executes
a business proposal to fill a regional
economic niche. She founded Salon 730
five years ago to offer women and men
a complete line of hair and cosmetic
services. The Salon 730 team provides a
world-class salon experience by always
making the guest the primary focus.
Small Business of the Year
Infinity Technologies won the
Business of the Year Award for
a company with 25 or fewer
employees. Opened in 1996,
Infinity has, for the last 15
years, focused the bulk of
its work on IT consulting
and project management.
Its team constantly adapts
to and offers services for
new technology platforms,
always aiming to stay ahead
of the technology curve. At
the same time, Infinity works to help customers reduce
costs and achieve greater productivity. The Infinity team
provides pro-bono services to several area non-profits,
including Empowerhouse, The Gladys H. Oberle School,
and the Thurman Brisben Center.
Large Business of the Year
GEICO won the Business
of the Year Award for a
company with more than
25 employees. A member
of the regional business
community for 25 years,
the company employs
more than 3,500 associates
at its facility in Stafford
County. GEICO is active in
the Chamber and partners
with a number of local institutions – including University
of Mary Washington, the Fredericksburg Regional
Alliance, Germanna Community College, Rappahannock
United Way and Stafford Hospital Foundation – to build
a stronger economy and a higher quality of life.

Community Impact Award
Central Rappahannock Regional
Library won the Community
Impact Award, which honors a
business or organization that
beneﬁts the Fredericksburg
Region on a daily basis. The CRRL
team works energetically to meet
the community’s educational,
recreational, technological and
informational needs. The library
system sponsored programs that
encourage students to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering
and Mathematics (STEM) studies and has created a Maker Lab
with a 3-D printer. CRRL also has set up vegetable gardens at two
of its branches, which have supplied more than 1,300 pounds of
fresh vegetables to local charitable organizations.
Prince B. Woodard Leadership Award
UMW President Rick Hurley won the Prince
B. Woodard Leadership Award, which salutes
an individual who has provided a lifetime of
service to the Fredericksburg Region. Since
assuming UMW’s presidency in 2010, he has
overseen a period of robust growth that
includes construction of the Anderson Center
convocation and athletics arena, the opening
of the UMW’s Dahlgren Campus and development of the Eagle
Village mixed-use development. In addition, he is active in the
community, having served on the Chamber’s board of directors,
the boards of Rappahannock United Way and Fredericksburg
Regional Alliance; and established the Town and Gown Committee
to strengthen relations between the university and the City of
Fredericksburg.
The Chamber
would like to thank
the following sponsors
for making possible
the 2015 Awards & Gala:
Title
Band
Hospitality
Bar
Table Wine
Linen
Wells Fargo
Platinum
Germanna Community College,
Hilldrup Companies
Gold
Comfort Keepers,
Community Bank of the Chesapeake,
Jarrell, Hicks & Waldman, PC;
Kloke Group,
Premier Eyecare: Angela Tsai, OD & Assoc.,
SimVentions, Splitsville
Bronze
CTI Real Estate, DLR Contracting,
Dr. & Mrs. J. Richard Garnett, Jr.;
Joe Greene, Mr. & Mrs. Willard R. Heidig,
Long & Foster, McAvinney & Assoc.,
Open Hand of Fredericksburg,
Providence Service Corp.,
Worrell Management

By Eric Watkins
Security experts estimate that less than 5 percent of small
businesses could withstand a serious attack on their computer’s
security system. Here are five growing threats to keep in mind
as you tend to your IT security in 2015.
Threats to mobile devices
It’s not just your smartphone that’s at risk of a security
breach. Any mobile device, be it a pad, tablet, laptop or any
device with Wi-Fi or Internet access is vulnerable. When your
employees use their personal mobile devices in office settings,
they’re inadvertently connecting to important networks. They
inadvertently open your business system up to malware,
ransomware, viruses and worms that could cripple or shut
down your business for hours, or even days.
It’s not about the money
Not every hacker wants to drain your bank account. Intelligence
and data are the new gold for Internet thieves. Intellectual
property, financial information, health records, and industry
blueprints are all more valuable than money alone. There’s a
global underground community just waiting to buy all kinds
of data.
In 2014 huge companies like ICANN, Target, Sony, Wal-Mart
and others were hit with billion dollar losses over the theft of
customer data. Small businesses are the new targets in 2015.
Hacksdon’thavetobecomplex,high-techassaultsonasystem.
Phishing, the art of pretending to be a legitimate website or
link in order to get a person’s password, is becoming more
sophisticated and harder to detect. Spearphishing, targeting
CEOs, CFOs and those who might have more secure access to
larger accounts, project info and contracts and other sensitive
data is also on the rise.
Mobile workflow means greater risks
to mobile security
Does your business use mobile payment apps? As a consumer
do you pay with a smart phone app? Leaks and breaches
from mobile payment apps will increase in 2015. Most
small business owners can’t tell if they’ve been hacked or
if something has been leaked on systems. Neither can most
consumers who pay with such apps.
Organized crime threat
Cybercrime is no longer limited to talented phishers and
hackers in developing nations looking for fast money.
Organized and well-funded organized crime groups around
the world are now launching targeted attacks on all types
and sizes of business. They target the weakest links, not the
biggest companies. Small businesses are at greater risk than
ever in 2015.
Every day brings new threats
Hackers and phishers are highly motivated to create new
threats as their old ones are disabled. As a result, new
threats are being created daily. The federal government
recently claimed that they neutralized the extortion software
“CryptoLocker.” However, the hacker gang responsible for
the malware is already creating and implementing new hacks
such as “CryptoWall.” Ransomware continues to be a big
threat globally. No one has a cure for it, and the fact it is big
business in some countries means it’s probably never going to
be eliminated.
How can you mitigate these risks?
It’s what you don’t know that you don’t know that can hurt
you. Some things that can help you protect your current
system:
• Set up a secure wireless network.
• Create and enforce user policies regarding the use
of personal computers, smart phones and tablets at
work by employees.
• Enact preventative measures for threats to your
network.
• Hire a computer security expert.
If you’re interested in learning more about the security issues
that can threaten your company, visit Infinity Technologies’
website, www.it-va.com and check out its white paper
– Office Network Security 101. The white paper covers an
introduction to network security and how to prevent common
risks to your office network. Download your copy at www.it-
va.com/networksecurity.
Spotlight
Top IT network security threats for 2015
Infinity Technologies is a Microsoft-
certified IT service provider that specializes
in addressing the needs of small and mid-
sized businesses. For more information,
call (540) 479-4343. Infinity Technologies
is a Chamber Trailblazer.

Spotlight
America’s hospitals and healthcare systems are catalysts for
health and access to care. They also are directly aligned with
the economic health of the communities they serve.
According to The American Hospital Association, the economic
impact of hospitals is often overlooked.
“The healthcare industry is one of the mainstays in economic
downturns, providing stability and at times growth. Hospitals
purchase from other businesses creating additional economic
value for communities,” according to the AHA.
Mary Washington Healthcare has provided quality healthcare
and been one of the largest drivers to the Fredericksburg
Region’s economy since 1899.
Stephen Fuller, Ph.D., director of George Mason University’s
Center for Regional Analysis, described Mary Washington
Healthcare as a major regional economic contributor in his
most recent MWHC economic impact study.
“The economic importance of MWHC has shown to be
significant as a major source of employment, income and
business activities,” he wrote. “The magnitude and breadth
of these impacts, both geographically and economically, have
made MWHC a catalyst for business investment and location
that will contribute to the growth of the Fredericksburg Region
as a major business and employment center.”
As a fully integrated, regional medical system, MWHC provides
inpatient and outpatient care through over 40 facilities and
services located on several medical campuses.
Mary Washington Healthcare is a nonprofit health system
and has a long-standing commitment to promoting healthy
lifestyles and providing valuable prevention services. Through
the Mary Washington and Stafford Hospitals’ Foundations,
MWHC supports other local nonprofit organizations dedicated
to improving the health of our communities.
The Affordable Healthcare Act has produced many changes
to the healthcare industry. Healthcare costs have continued
to increase nationally while reimbursements for care from
Medicare continue to decline. MWHC has not been immune
to those changes. As a non-profit healthcare system,
MWHC has remained focused on implementing
cost-reduction programs while sustaining the highest level of
quality care.
Included in the cost-reduction programs, MWHC has balanced
employee health insurance coverage options with keeping
the price affordable. MWHC has taken steps to lower out-
of-pocket expenses for employees by encouraging healthy
lifestyle choices, and rewarding employees for participating in
and maintaining healthy living practices.
A growing national movement to improve the health
management of patients includes the development of
accountable care organizations. These localized efforts provide
patients with a coordinated approach to their healthcare.
MWHC has partnered with over 400 primary care and specialty
physicians, along with other healthcare entities, to provide
superior healthcare and value through an integrated provider
network. The network, Mary Washington Health Alliance,
supports patients throughout the Rappahannock Region of
Virginia, between Richmond and Washington, D.C.
Mary Washington Health Alliance was recently selected as
this region’s Accountable Care Organization by The Centers
for Medicare and Medicaid Services, covering approximately
18,000 Medicare fee-for-service patients.
Mary Washington Healthcare’s total economic activity within
the Fredericksburg Region accounted for two percent of the
region’s$18.1billiongrossregionalproduct.Regionaleconomic
health and quality of life are two major reasons businesses
choose to locate in a specific area. World-class medical care is
essential for great quality of life. MWHC ensures world-class
medical care is available to all people right here in the region.
Mary Washington Healthcare is a not-for-profit, fully
integrated, regional medical system
that provides emergency, inpatient, and
outpatient care through 40 facilities and
services, including Mary Washington Hospital
and Stafford Hospital. Mary Washington
Healthcare is a Chamber Trailblazer.
Healthcare sector helping
drive regional economy
Mary Washington
Healthcare

By Col. David Maxwell
Friends, Neighbors and Family of MCB Quantico:
As we head into 2015, it is good to look back at the past year
and the successes that we have had in sustaining our mission
and in strengthening our relationships with the surrounding
communities of Prince William, Fauquier, and Stafford
counties as well as the towns of Quantico, Fredericksburg,
and Dumfries.
MCB Quantico has continued to focus on its core mission
of providing operational and training support, infrastructure
and community services to meet supported organization
requirements.
Much of the support and success we have enjoyed has been a
result of the on-going partnerships with our military affiliated
support organizations such as the Fredericksburg Chamber of
Commerce Military Affairs Committee.
I cannot express enough how important I feel the relationship
is between the MAC and MCB Quantico.
We reached a milestone last summer when we completed,
and the three counties adopted, the recommendations of the
Joint Land Use Study (JLUS) for MCB Quantico. A collaborative
effort involving the entire community, the JLUS provides us
a guide for development of common interest areas that will
serve as the basis for continued collaboration.
Thanks to Stafford County for taking the leadership on this
and shepherding it through the process.
Over the past year, MCB Quantico has intently pursued
improvements in the areas of energy and environmental
conservation. Projects include expanded facility metering,
installation of LED streetlights, the construction award for
a Camp Barrett Heat Plant microturbine project, and the
construction of a new water treatment facility by Camp Upshur.
I believe it is important that your Marines be a visible presence
in the community. Fredericksburg again hosted the Marine
Corps Historic Half Marathon, generating an estimated $20
million economic impact to the community. Individually, your
Marines logged more than 6,500 hours of volunteer work
in support of more than 80 separate regional community
activities, including the Toys 4 Tots program, which collected
and distributed more than 143,500 toys to children in need.
We have a number of highlight events planned this year.
In June we will host the Warrior Games for the first time. We will
host events associated with the World Police and Fire Games,
and we will host the Interallied Confederation of Reserve
Officers competition.
Additionally, on Oct. 25
we will conduct the 40th
running of the Marine Corps
Marathon.
We anticipate completing
somesignificantconstruction
projects, including an
$80 million expansion/
construction of the Warner
Center as part of Marine
Corps University, a new
consolidated elementary
school and Phase II widening
of Russell Road to alleviate
traffic congestion entering and exiting the installation.
We also expect construction efforts to begin on the third rail
expansion of CSX.
Significant efforts have occurred to help the commonwealth’s
transitioning service members move into the next phases of
their careers. This year we would like to work to connect these
great initiatives, to better serve our transitioning veterans by
facilitating the connection to the services being offered, whether
it is education, vocational training, mentoring or hiring.
If you are interested in being a part of this solution, please
contact Parissa Featherson with our Career and Professional
Development Office.
The opportunities that we have to continue our cooperation
and the mutual support are paramount in sustaining the
mission of the organizations and activities aboard MCB
Quantico, as well as taking care of our servicemembers
and their families, who live, work and go to school in our
communities.
Since 1917, Quantico has grown with the region. Through
depression, recessions and wars, our missions and your
Marines and their families, have grown together as good
neighbors and dependable partners.
We recognize that much of the support and success we have
enjoyed has been a result of the on-going partnerships with
important organizations like the Fredericksburg Chamber of
Commerce MAC.
From me and on behalf of all of your Marines at Quantico,
I thank you.
Military Briefing
Marine Corps Base Quantico 2015:
Serving the Nation Since 1917
Military Affairs
Council
Col. David Maxwell, USMC, is
commander of Marine Corps
Base Quantico.
Semper Fidelis

By Hap Connors
“Always on My Mind….” Not just a great song by Willie
Nelson, but it also describes the importance of transportation
in the Fredericksburg Region. It is always on everyone’s mind.
I have managed transportation issues at the local and
regional level and now, as a member of the Commonwealth
Transportation Board, at the state level. It is complex, and yes,
at times, frustrating.
Transportation in this region and at the state level is being
driven primarily by three factors: funding, prioritization and
innovation.
New Funding
In 2013, Gov. McDonnell and the General Assembly passed
HB 2313 – the first comprehensive transportation funding bill
since 1986. It included a more diversified revenue stream of
sales, recordation, motor vehicles and other taxes to generate
more revenue while providing some stability.
But because those revenue streams are linked to economic
conditions, the fund is down by $1 billion. Moreover, state
law requires VDOT to maintain the highway network first.
VDOT annually accepts about 200 miles of new road
for maintenance. Before the passage of HB 2313, VDOT
increasingly borrowed money from construction funds to
pay for maintenance services such as snow plowing, paving,
drainage, and pothole repair.
Though funding projections are down, we are taking in twice
as much revenue as in 2009.
Prioritization
Last year, Speaker Howell and Gov. McAuliffe crafted a
prioritization plan that won bi-partisan support in the General
Assembly. The intent of HB 2 is to funnel money to projects
that meet these metrics: congestion mitigation, economic
development, accessibility, safety and environmental quality.
As a result, the CTB and VDOT moved $416 million in
funding from a group of more than 60 projects. They meet
the law’s criteria: they are not fully funded and have not
completed the federal environmental and study phases. Six
of our regional projects are
now part of that process,
the majority of which were
huge I-95 improvement
projects. Because federal
and state officials know we
need to improve the section
of I-95 in our region, that
money will most likely be
restored once we clear the
process. Meanwhile, we
have $150 million on the
I-95 improvement project
at Route 630, and enough
funding remains on the other
projects to continue work.
Innovation
While the HB 2313 funding bill is advancing projects, the fact
remains that we will never have enough money to fund all
of our transportation needs. We need to improve land-use
decisions and keep commuters off the road or rails with new
local jobs, innovation and telecommuting opportunities.
On the latter, I am working with VDOT and other officials to
use and leverage VDOT assets to expand broadband coverage
in this region and across Virginia.
We will also see the expansion of public-private partnerships
(P3) to leverage investments, and more technologies being
used to create intelligent transportation systems. An example
of this is the newly opened 495/95 Express Lanes, which use
electronic tolls and dynamic pricing to increase capacity on
these major corridors.
We have hard choices to make when it comes to transportation.
We need to discuss innovative ways to move people and
goods in an increasingly digital economy.
We face challenges, and must look at all of the opportunities
to create a transportation system that serves the region while
saving our important historical and natural treasures.
On the Move
Hap Connors represents the
Fredericksburg Region on the
Commonwealth Transportation
Board, which allocates highway
funding to specific projects,
locates routes and provides
financing for airports, seaports
and public transportation.
Transportation is “Always on My Mind”
Photo:VirginiaDepartmentofTransportation
Virginia Department
of Transportation

WelcomeA.D.S. Meeting & Training Center
Alayna Stiffler
107 Westwood Office Park
Phone: (540) 370-0000
Conference/Banquet Facilities
American Made Fighter
Jimmy Canales
2757 Jefferson Davis Hwy., Suite 121
Stafford, Va 22554
Phone: (703) 870-4942
info@americanmadefighter.com
americanmadefighter.com
Fitness Centers/Training
Breathe 4 Me CPR Training
Chaya Stevenson
Stafford, VA 22556
Phone: (540) 538-9426
breathe4mecpr@aol.com
breathe4mecpr.com
Education/Supplemental
Engineering For Kids Foundation
Joshua Kovacs
100 Riverside Pkwy., Suite 209
Phone: (540) 940-2910
info@efkfoundation.org
efkfoundation.org
Non Profit
Estenson Logistics
Rich Weaver
560 W. Brown Rd., Suite 3001
Mesa, AZ 85201
Phone: (480) 940-8800
Fax: (480) 940-8802
rweaver@estenson.com
goelc.com
Transportation
Fred M. Rankin III
Fred Rankin
4 Derby Dr.
Phone: (540) 273-0422
Member Emeritus
Juice Plus
Jamie Allen
Phone: (719) 648-5953
jamieallen1959@gmail.com
jallenand.juiceplus.com
Wellness/Nutrition Products
Knowledge Advisory Group
Angie Sullivan
4108 E. Parham Rd.
Richmond, VA 23228
Phone: (540) 840-2007
Fax: (703) 997-7778
angie@KnowledgeAdvisoryGroup.com
KnowledgeAdvisoryGroup.com
Consultants
Life Done Right
Leah Courtnage
Phone: (757) 619-8267
lksnutrition@yahoo.com
yourlifedoneright.com
Health Related Services
Me-Show’s, LLC
Roben Williams
Spotsylvania, VA 22551
Phone: (855) 637-4097
tablerobens@gmail.com
me-shows.com
Table Linen
Memorable Moments/Party Elegance
David Canty
4800 Jefferson Davis Hwy.
Phone: (540) 548-3486
dacanty@msn.com
mmphotodjsax.com
Rentals Party/Equipment
Muster Me. LLC
Libby O’Malley
1220 Payne St.
Phone: (619) 301-4613
info@musterme.com
musterme.com
Business Develpment
Pelorus Counseling & Consulting, LLC
Tiffany Harvey
3330 Bourbon St., Suite 115
Phone: (540) 371-3412
Fax: (540) 372-6765
peloruscounseling@gmail.com
Counseling
Project Management & Consulting, LLC
Bryan Rock
4121 Plank Rd., Suite 329
Phone: (540) 735-2726
Fax: (800) 971-3024
info@pmcva.com
pmcva.com
Project Management
River Rock Outfitter
April Peterson
915 Sophia St.
Phone: (540) 372-8708
april.peterson@riverrockoutfitter.com
riverrockoutfitter.com
Sporting Goods/Collectibles
Rosner Ford
Tom Olney
16057 James Madison Pkwy.
King George, VA 22485
Phone: (540) 709-1280
Fax: (540) 709-1251
tolney@rosnerauto.com
rosnerford.com
Automobile Dealers
Sleep Inn Southpoint
Pat Gray
5400 Southpoint Centre Blvd.
Phone: (540) 710-5500
Fax: (540) 710-1572
plgray@wytestone.com
wytestone.com
Hotels/Motels
Summit Brokerage Services
Jonathan Freeze
725 Jackson St., Suite 204
Fredericksburg, Va 22401
Phone: (540) 621-8295
Fax: (540) 301-4992
jfreeze@summitbrokerage.com
jonathanfreeze.com
Financial Services
The Supply Room Companies
J. Eric Reynolds, Jr.
502 Interstate Business Park
Fredericksburg, Virginia 22405
Phone: (804) 382-6033
ereynolds@tsrcinc.net
tsrcinc.net
Office-Supplies, Equipment & Furniture
Hillcrest Laundry
Wilbur Greer
2012 1/2 Lafayette Blvd.
Phone: (540) 735-6232
hillcrestlaundry540@gmail.com
Dry Cleaning & Laundry Services
Tra’ Chic Boutique
Tracye Weeks
9679 Jefferson Davis Hwy.
Phone: (540) 898-1611
lovetrachic@gmail.com
lovetrachic.com
Clothing
uBreakiFix
Eric Miller
1909 Plank Rd.
Phone: (540) 371-3349
fredericksburg@ubreakiFix.com
uBreakiFix.com
Computer Services/Systems
Welcome New Members
The Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce warmly welcomes the newest members of the Chamber family.
Be a good partner – remember them when you do business.

RAF ranked among largest U.S.
radiology practices
Radiologic Associates of Fredericksburg is
among the 100 largest privately owned
radiology practices in the U.S., according to
Radiology Business Journal. The Journal’s “Radiology 100”
ranking for 2014 named RAF the 85th
-largest privately owned
radiology practice in the nation, based on its 29 full-time
equivalent radiologists. RAF was one of seven practices in
Virginia recognized in the ranking.
“As a practice we have chosen to maintain the size necessary
to ensure high-quality services to our patients, referring
physicians, and health facilities,” said Dr. David L. Glasser,
president of RAF. “We believe that our role as consultants to
the physicians in our community does not end after normal
office hours. Whenever a patient’s physician has a question or
needs to discuss a case, 24/7, 365 days a year, one of our local
radiologists is available for a consultation.”
Cushman & Wakefield |
Thalhimer hits record
Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer is pleased to announce
its 2014 transactional volume exceeded $2 billion, a 34
percent increase from 2013 overall volume. Robust activity in
December pushed volume over the $2 billion mark, with more
than 3.7 million square feet of sales and lease transactions
for the month. In December, the firm’s 10 Virginia, North
Carolina and South Carolina offices completed 126 lease
transactions totaling more than 1.6 million square feet with
a transactional value of more than $119 million. Industrial
building transactions of over 863,000 square feet accounted
for the largest amount of space leased. Office and retail
leases totaled more than 472,000 and 264,000 square feet,
respectively.
Lombardi earns promotion
Community Bank of the Chesapeake
has named Christy Lombardi as its
new Chief Administrative Officer. Ms.
Lombardi will be responsible for the bank’s administrative
and corporate governance matters while continuing to
oversee human resources. She joined Community Bank in
1998 and was promoted to Executive Vice
President, Director of Human Resources
and Administration in 2014. Ms. Lombardi
holds a Masters in Management and is
currently pursuing an MBA, which she
expects to complete in 2015. She is a
graduate of the Maryland Banking School.
PBMares names Perrine as
partner
PBMares, LLP, a regional accounting
firm, has elected former Fredericksburg resident Nick Perrine
as a new partner. Mr. Perrine started his professional career
in 2003 working in the Fredericksburg office. In 2010 he was
promoted to Tax Manager and relocated his family to the
Shenandoah Valley to work in PBMares’ Harrisonburg office.
Mr.Perrinehasmorethan11yearsofpublic
accounting experience and specializes
in the areas of real estate, healthcare,
manufacturing and construction. He is a
frequent speaker at professional events,
seminars and webinars and is PBMares
resident expert on the Affordable Care
Act. In 2012 and 2013 he was recognized by Virginia Business
Magazine and the VSCPA as a “Super CPA” in the Young
CPAs category.
He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree in
Accounting from James Madison University.
He participated in the inaugural class of the Fredericksburg
Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Fredericksburg
Program.
Tulip Salon & Spa named
to Top 200 Salons list
Salon Today has named Tulip
Salon & Spa to its 2015 Top 200
Salons list. Tulip was honored in the category of growth and
has pending nominations in the categories of marketing,
technology and compensation/benefits.
“This is a very prestigious award and takes many hours of hard
work in the areas such as growth, technology, marketing,
training, staffing and leadership,” said Tulip owner Priscilla
Priebe. “We feel very honored to receive this recognition for
the second year. This is a wonderful recognition and for Tulip,
it is a huge thank you for the community support.”
SimVentions named
top workplace
SimVentions, Inc. was recently named as one of 2015’s Best
Places to Work in Virginia. The annual list was created by
Virginia Business and Best Companies Group. This statewide
survey and awards program identifies, recognizes and honors
the best places of employment in Virginia, benefiting the
state’s economy, its workforce and businesses. The 2015 list
contains 100 companies.
“SimVentions is excited to be recognized as one of the
Best Places to Work in Virginia for the third year in a row!
We believe it is our servant-leadership style alongside our
commitment to our core values of customer satisfaction,
employee development, technical excellence, integrity and
teamwork, enthusiasm and effort, innovation, and business
growth and profitability that provides us ‘the heartbeat of
success’ as we seek to serve God and country,” SimVentions
CEO Larry Root said. “Our servant-leadership style and core
values keep our corporate culture and work environment
something that everyone loves to be a part of!”
Chamber Members in the News
Continued to page 20

Companies from across the commonwealth entered the two-
part survey process to determine the Best Places to Work in
Virginia.
Eligibility criteria included:
• status as a for-profit, not-for-profit business or government
entity
• status as a publicly or privately held business
• possess a Virginia-based facility
• employ at least 15 workers in Virginia
• at least one year of business operation
Since 2000, SimVentions has delivered engineering, program
and acquisition management, and training solutions to
America’s armed services. For more info visit www.simventions.
com. For more information on the Best Places to Work in
Virginia program, visit www.BestPlacesToWorkVA.com.
Community Foundation
awards grants
The Community Foundation of
the Rappahannock River Region
has awarded almost $15,000 in grants to five local nonprofits
through the Duff McDuff Green, Jr. Fund.
The fund, established in 2010, supports preservation programs
and children’s outdoor activities. The grant recipients are:
• Central Virginia Battlefields Trust - $2,500 for Pelham’s
Monument preservation and enhanced interpretation
• Ladies Memorial Association - $3,310 for Confederate
stones replacement
• Meadowview Biological Research Station - $2,500
for a wood chipper to convert cut brush into path mulch,
sustaining trails on the Central Virginia Preserve Duff
McDuff Green, Jr. Birding and Wildlife Trail
• Riverside Foundation for the Performing Arts -
$3,500 for a two-week summer camp for low income/
at-risk children that teaches the basics of on-stage
performance through music, choreography, acting and
technical projects
• Safe Harbor Child Advocacy Center – $3,000 for the
continuation of the Safe Harbor Child Advocacy Center
SRMC’s Casavant earns
LANA certification
The Lymphology Association of North
America (LANA) has awarded LANA
certification to Serena Casavant, an
experienced physical therapist with
Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center.
Ms. Casavant successfully completed
135 hours of training in lymphedema
therapy skills and has also passed a
voluntary North American certification examination that tests
the therapist’s knowledge of lymphedema management. She
provides instruction in self-care techniques to patients with
lymphedema, a swelling that generally occurs in one or both
arms or legs. Lymphedema is most commonly caused by
the removal of or damage to lymph nodes as part of cancer
treatment but may have other causes.
Ms. Casavant graduated in 2010 from the University of Mary
in Bismarck, ND with a doctorate in Physical Therapy. She has
worked in both in-patient hospital and outpatient settings
and received her lymphedema training through the Norton
School of Lymphatic Therapy in 2013. She has since worked
as the lymphedema specialist at SRMC.
Bank branch sold
Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer is pleased to announce the
sale of a former bank branch located at 4540 Lafayette Blvd.
in Spotsylvania County. The 4,448 square-foot bank branch
property situated on 0.87 acre was purchased for $740,000
by an undisclosed buyer from Union First Market Bank.
Passera named as CVFR Member of the Year
Chancellor Volunteer Fire & Rescue has named Capt. Mike
Passera as its Volunteer Fire & Rescue Member of the Year.
The award honors a CVFR member who embodies the best
of Chancellor in the areas of leadership, dedication, service
and excellence. A CVFR member since 2007, Capt. Passera
was recognized for serving as a positive role model for
new firefighters, being active at covering shifts and always
motivating his team at the station.
REC recognized for
safety practices
Keeping safety as a top
priority has earned Rappahannock Electric Cooperative
national recognition for safety in the workplace. The National
Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) awarded
the Cooperative certification in the Rural Electric Safety
Achievement Program (RESAP).
“Our employees work in one of the most dangerous industries
in the country,” said Maxie Rozell, manager of safety, security
and risk management at Rappahannock Electric Cooperative.
“We are very thankful for the RESAP recognition but most
importantly to the commitment our employees have placed
on working safely and maintaining a safe work environment.”
To become certified through RESAP, electric cooperatives
complete an assessment that includes benchmark performance
measures, annual self-assessment, and a safety culture
assessment. The intent of the RESAP program is to establish
a foundation for continuous improvement that emphasizes
leadership engagement towards improving safety results.
Chamber Members in the News
Continued from page 19

SRMC taps Collins for
Chief Nursing Officer
Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center
has named Teresa Collins as its Chief
Nursing Officer.
She replaces Nancy Littlefield, who is now the
SVP/System Chief Nursing Officer at Riverside
Health System in Newport News, VA.
“Teresa’s years of experience and desire to
provide dynamic nursing management, physician integration
and quality of care, will provide a positive dynamic for our
hospital’s growth as we continue to cultivate service lines,
quality, safety and employee engagement.” said Greg
Madsen, Spotsylvania Regional’s CEO.
Ms. Collins currently serves as the Associate Chief Nursing
Officer for Northside Hospital and Tampa Bay Heart Institute
in St. Petersburg, FL, where she is responsible for all quality,
productivity, budgeting and patient satisfaction metrics. Prior
to that, she worked as the director of Emergency Services for
the same hospital and has served as the director of Emergency
Services for John Randolph Medical Center in Richmond, VA.
“I am thrilled to be joining the Spotsylvania team as their new
CNO,” Ms. Collins said. “Spotsylvania Regional is a dynamic
facility with a bright future and I look forward to supporting
their mission of providing exceptional care and service to the
community that we serve.”
Ms. Collins earned her Masters of Science in Nursing from
Walden University in Minneapolis, MN. She is a Board Certified
Nurse Executive, member of the American Nurses Association
and the Virginia Nurses Association.
RUW offering tax filing help
Tax season has arrived and once
again the Rappahannock United Way
Free Tax Services Program is offering
free tax help to people who earn $60,000 or less and need
assistance in preparing their own tax returns
RUW is committed to helping families that qualify get the
maximum benefit from the federal Earned Income Tax Credit.
Last year, more than 614,000 Virginians received more than
$1.4 billion in EITC refunds. Those who worked in 2014
and had income of less than $52,427, should explore their
eligibility for EITC.
IRS-trained RUW volunteers will ask questions to find out if a
worker qualifies for the EITC and other refundable tax credits.
Volunteers at VITA, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance sites, also
prepare and electronically file the tax returns of those seeking
help at no cost to them.
“Our community volunteers help you get EITC and the
maximum refund you’re due,” said Rappahannock United
Way’s Adrienne Ross. “Our goal is to help you get it and get
it right. This is money you can save or use to pay off bills, buy
that car to get to work or make a down payment on a home.
Let us help make your life a little easier.”
Visit www.RUWFreeTaxes.org for free tax site locations and a
schedule.
Bring the following information to the filing session:
• valid driver’s license or other photo id card
• Social Security cards, a Social Security number
verification letter or the ITIN, individual taxpayer
identifying number, for all persons listed on the return
• birth dates for all persons listed on the return
• all income statements – Forms W-2 and 1099, Social
Security, unemployment, and other statements, such as
pensions, stocks, interest and any documents showing
taxes withheld
• all records of expenses, such as tuition, mortgage
interest, or real estate taxes
• copies of last year’s state and federal tax returns
• bank routing numbers and account numbers to direct
deposit any refund
• dependent child care information, including: name and
address of who you paid and either the caretaker’s Social
Security number or other tax identification number
• both spouses to sign forms to e-file a joint tax return
• household health insurance coverage information
10.5 ac property on Hunting Run Resevoir with
approx. 1,000 ft of waterfront. House location,
perk & site work done in 2007
updating. Small community of 4 homes. Seclusion
& privacy abound. For buyer who wants gorgeous
waterfront with no HOA. 15 min to I-95 &
Fredericksburg. Asking $395,000
Aquia Realty, Inc.
Land, Commercial, Industrial, Residential
Leasing & Property Management
Specializing in
Waterfront Properties
Potomac Riverfront Dream Home!!
Gated entry, hardwood floors, Bombeck
Crystal Chandeliers, incredible gourmet
kitchen, 2 gas FP. The MSTR BA is to
die for! Screened & open deck, walkout
BSMT. From patio to sandy beach.
Incredible views throughout! Sauna &
More! Commuter rail in 5 min. Quality
inside & out! Asking $1,289,000
10.5 Waterfront AC to Build Your
Dream Home
10.5 ac property on Hunting Run Resevoir
with approx. 1,000 ft of waterfront. House
location, perk & site work done in 2007ñ
just needs updating. Small community of
4 homes. Seclusion & privacy abound.
For buyer who wants gorgeous waterfront
with no HOA. 15 min to I-95 &
Fredericksburg. Asking $395,000
OPPORTUNITY IN THE
HEART OF STAFFORD!
Commercial Building for sale across
from Stafford Courthouse. For 30+ years
has operated as an automotive parts store
(NAPA). Zoned B-2 Commercial. Ample
Parking. 3,200 SF. Deeded space on US
RT 1 Hwy for signage. Asking $425,000
Specializing in Waterfront Properties Jo D. Knight
GRI, CRS, CRB, CREA
Principal Broker
Visit us at www. AquiaRealty.net for more info on Available Lots & Rentals
Come to Aquia Realty to take care of all your Property Management needs!
We will maximize your investment income & minimize expenses.
www. Aquiarealty.net * joknight@aquiarealty.net
(540) 659-2192 * 2101 Jeff. Davis Highway

Schedule of Events
February 2015
4 – Mid-week Motivation – Ristorante Renato
5 – Leadership Roundtable – Hyatt Place Fredericksburg
Business After Hours – Home Instead Senior Care
9 – Healthcare CEO Panel – Lee’s Hill Medical Plaza
11 – Lunch with the Chamber President – Pancho Villa at
Massaponax
17 – CNEW Luncheon – Fredericksburg Country Club
18 – Workforce NOW Workshop: Digital Marketing
Strategies – Chamber office
19 – Business After Hours – Courtyard by Marriott
Fredericksburg Historic District
24 – MAC Roundtable – UMUC at Quantico Corporate
Center
Non-Profit Business Builder – Chamber office
26 – Small Business Builder – Chamber office
Ribbon Cutting – AAA Tax Plus
March 2015
5 – State of the Chamber – Fick Conference Center
10 – FredTech Tech Tour – UMW Info & Technology
Convergence Center
Stafford Roundtable – Stafford Hospital, noon
11 – Member Orientation – Chamber office
12 – Ribbon Cutting – Dodson Property Management
13 – Next Generation Reverse Raffle – Fredericksburg
Country Club
17 – CNEW Luncheon – Fredericksburg Country Club
20 – Ribbon Cutting – Goodyear Auto Service Center
24 – Non-Profit Business Builder – Chamber office
26 – Small Business Builder – Chamber office
31 – MAC Roundtable – Fredericksburg Country Club
Chamber members, check your QuickNotes e-mails
for additions or changes to the above. For more
information or to register for these and other
events, call (540) 373-9400 or go to
www.fredericksburgchamber.org.
Save the Date:
STEM Summit
Area business leaders, students and educators
will celebrate all things science and math
at the fourth annual STEM 16 Summit.
Hosted by FredTech, the Chamber and University
of Mary Washington, the event will spotlight
regional achievements in Science, Technology,
Engineering and Math (STEM). For more
information, contact Sheri Wikert at
sheri@fredericksburgchamber.org.
What
STEM 16 Summit
When
10 a.m.-2 p.m., April 25
Where
University of Mary Washington
Anderson Center
Admission
Free and open to the public
Exhibit Booths
No charge for
schools/non-profit organizations
$150 for businesses
Workforce NOW Workshop Series
At 8 a.m. each Monday in March, Workforce NOW
will host a series of workshops that provide
employees with what they need to succeed.
The workshops will take place at
Germanna Community College’s Fredericksburg Campus.
For more information or to register, call (540) 373-9400.

Chamber Staff
Board of Directors
Michele Renee Dooling,
Director of Finance & Human Resources
Katie Hansen,
Executive Assistant & Member Services Support
Stacey Hicks, Administrative Support
Tricia Benson Matthews,
Membership Account Executive
Erin Meadows, Member Services Assistant
Kasey Nabal, Military & Govt. Affairs Manager
Susan Spears, President & CEO
Whitney Watts, Director of Member Services
George Whitehurst, Director of Communications
Sheri Wikert, Member Services Coordinator
Nick Cadwallender, Plants Map, Inc.
Dr. J.R. Flatter, Flatter & Associates
Eric Fletcher, Mary Washington Healthcare
Adam Fried, Atlantic Builders, Ltd.
Paul Giambra, Quarles Petroleum, Inc.
Kathy Hoffman, Mary Kay Cosmetics
Ron Holmes, Merrill Lynch Wealth Management
Regis Keddie II, Davenport & Co.
Greg Madsen, Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center
Dr. David Sam, Germanna Community College
Woody Van Valkenburgh, Rappahannock Goodwill
Industries
Deirdre Powell White, DPW Training & Associates
Joe Wilson, Perma Treat Pest Control
Nate Wood, BB&T
Legal Counsel
Maragaret Hardy, Sands Anderson PC
OFFICERS
Greg Calvert, Chair
The Kloke Group
Bill Hession, Vice Chair
Lockheed Martin
Michael Fidgeon, Immediate Past Chair
Providence Service Corporation
Shawn Sloan, Treasurer
The Media Partners, LLC
Susan Spears, President & CEO
Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce
VISION
To be the leading convener for the business community,
assuring that the Fredericksburg Region is a major
economic center in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
CONTACT
Phone. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .540.373.9400
Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .540.373.9570
www.fredericksburgchamber.org
www.celebratemayfest.comwww.celebratemayfest.com
540-373-7643540-373-7643
Annual Plant Sales - Over 100 varieties ● Food ●
Live Entertainment ● Face Painting ● Silent Auction
● Rappahannock Area Kids on the Block ● Moon
Bounce ● Raffle Drawings
Rappahannock Adult Activities is a program of the
Rappahannock Area Community Services Board and
a partner agency of the Rappahannock United Way
Proceeds benefit adults with Intellectual Disabilities
served by Rappahannock Adult Activities
Join Rappahannock Adult ActivitiesJoin Rappahannock Adult Activities
Saturday, May 2, 2015Saturday, May 2, 2015
10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Rain or Shine!Rain or Shine!
Breakfast Served at 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
750 Kings Hwy., Fredericksburg
(Just 3.9 miles east of the Chatham Bridge)
29th Annual
Plant SalesStartApril 25th

410 William Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401 115 E. Charles Street, La Plata, MD 20646
Bank local, bank better.
(540) 899-2265 • www.VirginiaPartnersBank.com •
The better choice
for banking.
If you want a more personal banking experience, you’ll ﬁnd it here.
Our bank was founded by local people with a commitment
to the community and the success of its people and businesses.
Come in and see for yourself.

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