 | |
Tuscany Trip
Montecatini Terme |
|
 | |
Tuscany Trip
Gelato in Florence |
|
 | |
Tuscany Trip
Hotel DiVinci L/R Sherri Gill, Constance Rhodes & Claudia Benvenuti (Guide) |
|
 | |
Tuscany Trip
Montecantini Terme |
|
 | |
Wednesday, March 14, 2012 |
|
|
Recent Chamber Activities
Thanks to our student sponsors local area high school students were able to attend our recent Richard J. Holland
Pre-Session Legislative Breakfast:
Smithfield Foods, Premier Student Sponsor
Max Lindner, Merrill Lynch
Town of Windsor
Town of Smithfield
Christine Hill
A.V. Bowman
Rex Williams
 | | Smithfield High School Students with Congressman Randy Forbes |
 | | Congressman Randy Forbes with Mrs. Perera, Superintendent IWCS (far left) and Mrs. Lee (far right)of Windsor High School along with Windsor High School Students |
 | | Congressman Forbes with students from Nansemond-Suffolk Academy |
 | | Congressman Forbres with Isle of Wight Academy Students and Assistant Headmaster Joseph Whitley (far right) |
|
 | |
Ed Fraedrich
"Saxophone Goes Classic"
Sundays at Four January 29 |
|
|
| |
Isle of Wight County Museum's "Three Little Pigs" program begins January 28
|
|
|
| |
Brendon Elliott
Sundays at Four
February 26 |
|
 | |
"Save Your History Day"
February 11th at the Isle of Wight County Museum |
|
|
 | |
"Tell Me A Story"
Isle of Wight County Museum
February 13 |
|
|
The Isle of Wight-Smithfield-Windsor Chamber of Commerce strives to provide accurate, timely and relevant information through this newsletter, however, the Chamber cannot warrant or make any representation as to the accuracy or completeness of any information contained herein.
Member notices for inclusion in our monthly "e-newsletter" should be directed to Lori White at lwhite@theisle.org
|
|
Like Constant Contact?
Our chamber members can join at special discounted rates. Email lwhite@theisle.org for details. |
| Join Our List |
 |
|
|
|
Discover & Explore with the Chamber
It is true that pictures speak a thousand words!!! Please enjoy the few we've shared from the wonderful recent journey to Tuscany. Travelling as a group accomplishes many things: It builds relationships, creates friendships, enhances our knowledge of this wonderful world we live in, and is so educational! Group travel is broadening in the sense that the well-versed guides share facts that cannot be found in a hundred guidebooks.
Tuscany is behind us and Ireland is on the horizon! On October 28th a chamber delegation will travel from Norfolk to Shannon, Ireland and transfer to the 5-star Adare Manor Villa for 6 nights. The Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort is known for the Adare Golf Club championship golf course which was commissioned by the Earl of Dunraven in the 1890's and features the design of renowned Eddie Hackett.
Guests will stay in the Adare Villa's, ideally located within a 15 minute walk from the Manor house which is set in the heart of an 840 acre estate. Those taking the journey will have the opportunity to visit many famous sites in addition to walking the town of Adare, a special place. Spend time browsing through the antique and clothing boutiques and getting acquainted with the local people in one of the many restaurants and pubs. A self-catered breakfast is pre-stocked for you every day and there will be an evening when we will meet with local business representatives and have a medieval-style dinner and entertainment!
An excursion to Dublin is available for those wishing to extend their stay and visit Ireland's majestic capital.
For further information, please contact our office at 357-3502 and speak with Sherri Gill.
View Brochure |
|
The Isle Expo March 14
Exhibitor Applications
The chamber's annual local business show, "The Isle Expo" will be held on Wednesday, March 14, from 4 - 7 p.m. at the Smithfield Center. We are currently accepting exhibitor reservations for this popular event!
Exhibitor Application Exhibitor Information |
|
One-on-one Business Development Consultations Available January 19 A representative from the Small Business Development Center of Hampton Roads will be available on Thursday, January 19 to meet with business owners and prospective business owners on a one-on-one basis at the Chamber of Commerce office. SBDC consultations are one of the services available through the chamber office to help guide business owners through the many issues of entrepreneurship. There is no charge for this service. To schedule a consultation, call Lori at 757-357-3502. |
|
Business After Hours Host Opportunities Available
There Business After Hours host opportunities available for 2012. If your business is interested in hosting a Business After Hours event contact Lori at 757-357-3502 or lwhite@theisle.org for reservations and information. |
|
Smithfield Center Vendor Program Discount
Members of the Isle of Wight-Smithfield-Windsor Chamber of Commerce now receive a 10% discount on the Smithfield Center's Vendor Program. The program is designed for businesses that provide event services including catering, photography and more! Smithfield Center's Vendor Program benefits include: listing on master vendor list and website, website link, business card display, fall fashion show booth and more! Download Vendor Program Information |
|
Chamber Conference Room Rental
The chamber's conference room is available for rent to our members at the low rate of $55 per day. Call 757-357-3502 for reservations and information. |
|
Member News & Announcements | | |
|
Church Street Beautification Update
Please bear with us during the last phase of the Church Street Beautification Project. Beginning January 16th, those traveling north on Church Street will be detoured between Cedar Street and Luter Drive. This should not be an inconvenience and will expedite a project that is about 80% complete. By the end of May, we will have a beautiful new entrance to the historic area to celebrate! |
|
Sundays at Four Presents:
"The Saxophone Goes Classic," January 29 Sundays at Four presents "The Saxophone Goes Classic," Sunday, Jan. 29 at 4:00 pm hosted at Trinity United Methodist Church. The program is an unusual mix of repertoire for one and two saxophones accompanied by piano which will play music by contemporary masters, and recognized composers. The headline performer will be Ed Fraedrich of the George Mason University faculty. He will be assisted by saxophonist Dr. Sheri Oyan and pianist Anthony Smith from Richmond in a recital of music rarely heard in Hampton Roads. Tickets are $20 each and $5 for students. Call 757-357-9140 for information.
Brendon Elliott in Solo Youth Recital February 26
On Sunday, February 26 at 4:00 pm, 16 year old violinist Brendon Elliott, accompanied by world-class pianist, Oksana Lutsyshyn, will perform at Trinity United Methodist Church. This fine young musician first stepped on stage at a Sundays at Four's "Terrific Teen Talent" concert when he was 13. He had already appeared on the nationally syndicated radio show, From the Top, with talented youth from throughout the United States. This "Don't Miss" concert will be supported by a free will offering. Information: 757-375-9140, or 757-675-5777.
Calendar Change: Date Change from March 25 to April 1
The ODU Percussion Ensemble, David Walker, Director, will play a Sundays at Four concert Sunday, April 1 - 4:00 pm at the Smithfield Little Theatre, 210 N. Church Street, Smithfield. Tickets: Adult - $20, Students - $5. Information: 757 375-9140. |
|
Dancing with the Seniors Starts January 17
Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia and the Sandler Center are sponsoring a dance series program for seniors begining on Tuesday, January 17. Must be 60 and older to participate. For information and Registration go to: www.sandlercenter.org/index/seniors |
|
Luter Family YMCA Expansion Celebration January 21
The Luter Family YMCA located at 259 James Street in Smithfield will hold an open house in celebration of their new expansion on Saturday, January 21. Scheduled events: Ribbon cutting at 10 am, screenings, healthy snacks and demos after ribbon cutting; one-mile fun run/walk at 12 noon with Janet Barker; Kids enjoy popcorn and inflatables, activities and games 1 to 4 pm; TRX demos in the new expanded Wellness center offered every hour from 11 to 4; Come Zumba with various instructors from 1 to 3 pm. This event is free and open to the community. Community members are encouraged to stop by and learn how the Y is growing! For more information call 365-4060. |
|
Smithfield Wine & Brew Fest April 14
The excitement of using the enchanting riverside Windsor Castle Park as the festival location, combined with the historically great tradition of local hospitality - the Smithfield Wine & Brew Fest weekend is guaranteed to be the year's most anticipated event. The Wine & Brew Fest is Saturday, April 14, 2012 with other local events held at various businesses starting Friday, April 13 - Sunday April 15.
Please take a few minutes, and review the attached information. Consider being a sponsor, or entertaining your clients at our festival, or hosting a mini-event. Private Chalets/Reserved Tables go on sale starting Jan 12, 2012 @ 9:00 am. By working together, we can start what will be an on-going event that provides a fabulous experience for our festival go-ers and strengthens our community by benefiting local charities. For more information contact Gina Ippolito, Co-Chair, SWBF at 757-869-0664 or visit www.SmithfieldVaWineBrewFest.com
DOWNLOAD SPONSORSHIP INFORMATION
DOWNLOAD RESERVATION FORM
|
|
Library Updates for the Carrollton Branch of the Blackwater Regional Library
Prescription Drug Information January 13 & 20 come by between 1pm - 3 pm on the 13th and from 10 a.m - 1 pm on the 20th to talk to Western Tidewater MedCare Access to find out about the Medicare Part D "Extra Help" benefit.
Computer Tutoring at Carrollton Library Please call the Carrollton Library for an appointment. We offer first and third Wednesday afternoon tutoring sessions that are 1 hour long, one-on-one beginning computer help.
Teen Anime Club January 14 from 10 am to 1 pm. Come celebrate Japanese New Year. Refreshements will be served. Newcomers are welcome.
Coupon Class by A Frugal Chick January 23
from 6 to 8 pm. Learn how to "Live Well Without Going Broke." Registration is required.
Knitting class for beginners Wednesday January 18th at 6:00pm. Call or stop by to register.
Storytime resumes Monday, January 23rd at 10am for our 2/3 year-olds. The 3/5 year-olds resume at 10am on Thursday, January 26.
Contact Faye Hobbs at 238-2641 for more information. |
| Isle of Wight County Historic Resources News
January 28 - Three Little Pigs: Straw, Sticks and Bricks Begins at the Museum.
The Three Little Pigs is a fairy tale virtually everyone knows. Printed versions of the story date to the 1840s - although it is thought to be a much older tale. The Isle of Wight County Museum will offer a three-part afternoon program, geared to ages 6 to 12, which highlights this story in various ways to showcase the fascinating history of ham and how it put Smithfield, Va., on the world map. Each of the following sessions will offer a different focus on all things porcine and include a craft and ongoing project:
- Jan. 28. Three Little Pigs: Straw. 1-2 p.m. Participants will learn about the history and evolution of pigs - plus a few famous pigs.
- Feb. 25. Three Little Pigs: Sticks. 1-2 p.m. Participants will learn that there is truth in the phrase everything but the squeal.
- March 24. Three Little Pigs: Bricks. 1-2 p.m. Participants will become wordsmiths and discuss the pig and its influence on American idioms, phrases and culture.
Cost is $10 per child per session or $25 for all three sessions. Reservations are required. For more information call (757) 356-1223.
February 11 - Save Your History Day: From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 11, those with memories of Isle of Wight County are encouraged to bring photos and ephemera to the Isle of Wight County Museum. The museum will scan images for addition to the collection. Those bringing their memories to the museum will be able to return home with them. Photos, postcards, letters, tickets, etc. are of interest to the Museum.
February 13 - Children's "Tell Me a Story" Time: Children ages 3 to 5 and their families are invited to visit the Isle of Wight County Museum for Tell Me a Story, a monthly program designed to introduce youngsters to the symbols of Isle of Wight County through books, games and crafts. The free storytimes are offered from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. on the second Monday of each month. The winter schedule for Tell Me a Story includes Feb. 13, March 12 and April 9. Reservations are not required although groups of 10 or more are asked to contact the museum prior to the event. For more information, contact the Isle of Wight County Museum at (757) 356-1223 or visit www.historicisleofwight.com.
March 18 - Fort Boykin Walking Tour: Visitors to Fort Boykin will be offered a walking tour of the site. Led by Historic Resources Manager J.L. Williams, this tour will last approximately 45 minutes. The event is free, and reservations are not required. Please wear comfortable walking shoes. Fort Boykin is located at 7410 Fort Boykin Trail in Smithfield and is open daily from 8 a.m. to dusk. For more information, contact Isle of Wight County's Historic Resources Department at (757) 357-0115 or visit www.historicisleofwight.com. |
|
Smithfield Music Concert Information
Sat. Feb 4, 2012 - regional favorites M.S.G., The Acoustic Blues Trio will entertain us with a house concert starting at 7:30.
Sat. Apr. 21, 2012 - from Harrisonburg, VA, The Steel Wheels will perform at SLT starting at 7:30. As we get closer, we'll announce the ticket sale date but you can count on it being sometime in early March. The Steel Wheels have been doing some great things since they were here last year and we are excited to have them on our calendar.
For more information visit www.smithfieldmusic.org. |
|
VFW Community Breakfast Each 2nd & 4th Saturday
VFW Post 8545 located at 223 Washington Street, across from the Smithfield Library, holds fundraiser breakfasts the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month from 7 a.m. until 10 a.m. (except for major holidays). Featured breakfast items include: Fried Salt Herring, Bacon, Sausage, Biscuits & Sausage, Gravy, Scrambled Eggs, Savory Hash Browns, Fried Corn Bread, Grits, Fruit, Danish, Coffee and Juice. Donation of $8.00 supports Veterans and Community Projects. For more information contact: Post Commandeer - Bruce Fischer 757-846-0953; Breakfast Chairman - Eddie Rowland 757-650-7606; Public Affairs - Don Hull 757-279-0025. |
|
Kudos to "Sunnies" Award Winners
The "Suffolk Sun" supplement to the Virginia-Pilot recently announced their "favorites" list of local people and events that "inspire, dazzle and brighten our world." Among the honorees, several members of our chamber were named as "Sunnies." Here is what the "Suffolk Sun" had to say about our members:
Smithfield's "Sundays at Four" performance series for, again, offering a season of relevant and satisfying concerts that enlighten as well as entertain. The series was able to create its own performance group, the Smithfield Trio, that featured violinist Linda Hurwitz, cellist Susan Hines and pianist Amanda Halstead. This year's concerts included a celebration of poet Emily Dickinson in spoken word and music, saxophones in a classical setting, a percussion showcase and some of the area's most talented teen musicians.
Smithfield's Historic St. Luke's Church for its Bach Birthday Celebration concert. Organized by Heidi Bloch and Mary Cole, also board members of the Sundays at Four performance series, the concert featured a vocalist, cellist, harpsichordist and recorder player performing an array of Bach compositions. In addition, the church's 17th-century Gothic architecture presented the perfect setting for the baroque genius' music.
Isle of Wight County Museum and its curator Tracey Neikirk for its unique and entertaining "Curatorial Coffee Klatch" which served up unusual historical and vintage items, artifacts and implements from his extensive collection accompanied by interesting historical commentary. And during the summer she presented the appropriate program "We All Scream for Ice Cream," which featured tastings, a bit of ice cream history and vintage items and implements.
Nansemond-Suffolk Academy for turning a modest school fundraiser into one of the region's premier arts events, its annual Art Show & Sale, which celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2011. Yearly, the show draws around 150 of the area's top artists, showcasing paintings, drawings, ceramics, prints, jewelry, photography, mixed media works and installations.
Isle of Wight County Fair, considered a "mini state fair," which annually showcases 4-H livestock and agricultural initiatives, canners, bakers and crafters. The fun family friendly event also features carnival rides and a midway, talent shows, regional and national music acts, competitions and magic shows.
Smithfield Music's Aiken & Friends Fest, organized by singer/songwriter Mike Aiken along with Jim and Elaine Abicht to raise money for local music education, annually brings in the region's, and country's, most revered and acclaimed roots Americana musicians and songwriters. The weekend long festival features songwriters' and guitar workshops and intimate concerts along with outdoor performances featuring an array of new and longtime musicians and groups. Word is spreading throughout the country about this quality musical event.
To learn about more "Sunnies" go to: http://hamptonroads.com/2012/01/and-2011-sunnie-award-winners-are
|
|
Meals on Wheels
Located at Sentara Obici on Godwin Blvd, Meals on Wheels provides nourishment and hope to those who can no longer provide for themselves. Last year we served over 43,000 meals to 189 recipients in the Isle of Wight Region and Suffolk. We help our recipients maintain their independence by enabling them to stay in their homes instead of a healthcare facility. Your donations help provide nourishment, independence, and peace of mind to the recipients. We are "more than a meal". We serve the mothers and daughters whose lives have been changed because of illness. We provide hope to the husband and wife whose children live in different areas of the country. We deliver meals with love for the widower who has lost his greatest treasure in life and wants to remain in his home where his memories are still alive. We deliver smiles. Meals are delivered Mon - Fri. Visit www.suffolkmealsonwheels.com or phone 757.934.4911.
|
|
|
|
|
