Marking Arlington Chamber President Rich Doud's last Gala as the organization's leader, Doud poses with Chamber staff Cassie Bate, Kate Roche, and Amy Fisher at the 90th Annual Business Gala.

Arlington, VA - The Arlington Chamber of Commerce hosted its 90th Annual Business Gala on Saturday, January 25 at The Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City. The Business Gala was the Chamber's first major event of 2014 and entertained approximately 300 area business leaders. 2014 Chamber Chair Tim Hughes of Bean, Kinney & Korman P.C. hosted the evening.

The event marked Chamber President Rich Doud's last Gala as the organization's leader. Earlier this month, Doud announced his plans to retire in May.

"The evening was a spectacular success and truly embodied 'Arlington's Best Night Out'," said Hughes. "We all wish Rich Doud the best in his upcoming retirement, and he clearly is wrapping up on a high note as evidenced by a fantastic annual Gala."

Scott Miller of EagleBank and Rick Reinsch of Digital Recollections.

Gala attendees enjoyed a three-course dinner, mingling with fellow Arlington business people and music by the Odyssey Band, as well as some friendly competition with the Silent and Live Auctions. The Gala featured over 160 items in the Silent Auction and an exciting Live Auction. Auction items varied from a corporate sponsorship for building a Habitat for Humanity of Northern Virginia house to resort accommodations at a variety of tropical destinations including Barbados, Antigua and Panama, and more. Guests also enjoyed the excitement of the Heads or Tails game, where participants had the opportunity to win an iPad Mini, and the Tropical Vacation Raffle to win an all-inclusive stay in Antigua.

Chamber Board Member Jay Reiner and his wife Karen.

VIPs in attendance included Virginia Senator Barbara Favola, 

Virginia Senator Adam Ebbin, Virginia Delegate Rob Krupicka, Virginia Delegate Bob Brink, Virginia Delegate Patrick Hope, Virginia Delegate Alfonso Lopez, Arlington County Board Chair Jay Fisette, County Board Vice-Chair Mary Hynes, County Board Member Walter Tejada, County Board Member Libby Garvey, Clerk of the Circuit Court Paul Ferguson, and Sheriff Beth Arthur.

The Arlington Business Gala has historically been the Chamber's most significant fundraising event, and the event proved so again this year thanks to the gracious support of our members. The Chamber expresses our appreciation for all of our members who contributed to the evening's success through their generous donations and attendance. We hope all who attended the event had a wonderful evening.