A "Hyper Local" source of info

Published December 27, 2010 in the Culpeper Star Exponent

“Hyper Local” is a buzz word for all things local. With our access to national and global information, local culture and quality of life can become lost in the noise of larger voices. We are therefore, fortunate to have the Culpeper Star Exponent as a hyper local source of information about what happens in our community.

For a business to find the news, write about it professionally, package it in a printed form, package it in an electronic form, make it available in a printed copy, electronic copy, and now thru a smart phone app is remarkable. Doing it every day and delivering it to our door, email address, and smart phones… is even more amazing.

The need for local news is ongoing. We love the entertainment, edutainment, as well as the stories that affect our quality of life. The news reports tell of our good sides and sometimes those sides of us that are not so perfect. Having the professional forum to bring such information to the public is a treasured part of our American freedom.

Associates, reporters, journalists, and administrators of the Star Exponent are local residents and committed to our quality of life. I have admired their dedication to supporting our community success in so many ways. Where do local organizations go when they need to get the message out for their event? Where do local businesses go to get their message out locally about their products and services? Who do citizens go to when they want to make known an issue or an individual opinion? They often go to a trusted source for packaging and distributing the message, our friends at the Culpeper Star Exponent.

Though there are certainly changes in how news is delivered, there is nothing like opening the newspaper on Sunday morning with a cup of coffee (a local blend of course). The stories, opinions, and advertisements are something that many of us look forward to weekly and daily. Having reporters and journalists on the ground in Culpeper is critical to reporting the news here for local consumption.

I know many of my fellow column writers. I also know that we work at what we write with a great deal of pride. Our opportunities to express our views as local citizens, professionals, and civic leaders are made known through the generosity of the Culpeper Star Exponent. I am very thankful for the Star Exponent, their leadership, their involvement in the community, and the important role that they play in our free society.

To the associates of the Culpeper Star Exponent – Merry Christmas and Happy New Year – May 2011 be a year of prosperity for you, your advertisers, and your enlightened readers.

Chamber Membership a Great Gift!

Published December 20,2010 in the Culpeper Star Exponent

 

Considering gifts at the last minute? I have seen so many Facebook posts from friends suggesting that they have a lot of shopping left to do for Christmas gifts.  Let the Culpeper Chamber make it easy for you. We have “Chamber Cash” that you can buy to stuff those stockings. The Chamber cash is accepted by many local businesses and makes it easy to support the “Buy Local” strategy that we all have. Call the Chamber office at 540-825-8628 or come by the Depot for details.

What else do we have in our gift bag for you at the Chamber??? Consider a gift that will provide returns throughout the year. If you have not joined yet – we have a deal for you thru the end of this year. Chamber Membership makes it easy for you to connect with other businesses and consumers to enhance your business opportunities. A Chamber Membership will provide a way for you and your employees to connect with new opportunities in 2011.

What would Chamber membership offer you and your business? Glad you asked… I hope that your stocking can handle all of these… Member Referrals, Member Referral Statistics,  Business Seminars, Website Visibility, Mobile App Visibility, Business Discounts, Member Business Card and Brochure Distribution, Culpeper Chamber Community Guide and Business Directory, Informational and Network Breakfasts, Information and Network Lunches (RAVE Luncheons), Annual Banquet & Silent Auction, CulpeperFest & Business Expo, The “Pepper Open” Classic Golf Tournament, Chamber News Newsletter, Chamber News Email, Community Leadership Development Programs, Posts on CulpeperJobs.com, New Member Announcements, Young Professionals Group, Human Resource Council, Hot Deals on the Chamber Website and MyChamberApp, Non-Profit Council programs (see http://www.basicsbootcamp.com/ for the next program) , Legislative Programs and updates, Membership Mixers, and much more. The gift of Chamber membership has the ROI that fits all business plans.

Finally, one of the most sought after ways to benefit from your membership in the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce is a coveted seat on one of the Leadshare Groups. The groups meet in the mornings and share business leads and business support among the members of each group. The leadshare groups are designed to assist participants in expanding their business network.  It is an active and structured system for furnishing and receiving business referrals. These are especially helpful for those home based businesses to keep their business and communication skills sharp. The groups meet each week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at various locations in Culpeper. Go to http://www.leadshare.net/  for more information. Give yourself the gift of joining a leadshare group in 2011.

Our mission at the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce is to be the voice of the business community working to promote, build, and support the most effective climate for economic development. Join us to add your voice to the mission of the Chamber. Contact Martha Snider, at the Culpeper Chamber office located at the Depot to connect you and your associates today. Your Chamber – Your Business – Our Future.

Jim Charapich, President/CEO Culpeper County Chamber of Commerce

jcharapich@culpepervachamber.com

“Preparing for a Brighter Future”

Published December 6,2010 in the Culpeper Star Exponent

 

“Preparing for a Brighter Future” was the title of the first Virginia Economic Summit developed and hosted by the Virginia Chamber of Commerce. The Summit was held at Kingsmill in Williamsburg on Thursday and attracted leaders in Virginia from Business, Government, and Academia.

With Virginia’s status as a leader in job creation in the United States, the conference reflected our success as well as our opportunities for improvement. Northrop Grumman Corporation’s Vice President for Business Management presented the case for why they choose Fairfax County for their new headquarters.  In addition to the many statistical reasons for their location choice, they were attracted to the location as a result of the “we are here to help you” attitude demonstrated by state and local governments.

The Executive Vice President and CFO, Rolls-Royce North America, Inc. made similar comments about their choice to locate their advanced manufacturing  facility 35 miles south of  Richmond. He described the project, Rolls-Royce Cross Point Center, as a vision and with good reason. The project is robust and includes resources from the entire state. Why this location? It intersects with 295, 95, and adjacent route 64 as major highway routes. It is proximate to the deep water Port of Virginia and the largest US Naval Base. Richmond International Airport and major rail routes are easily accessible. Virginia has world class research & educational institutions such as the University of Virginia and Virginia Tech. In addition, The Virginia Community College system will play an important role in workforce development. The vision is to develop the 1000 acre property into a “major aerospace center integrating advanced manufacturing and research across multiple partnerships.” The Commonwealth Center for Advanced Manufacturing (CCAM) will also be located on the Rolls-Royce grounds and offer other major companies opportunities to collaborate in research and development efforts.

Though these success stories are outstanding, we have some work to do in order to keep the momentum in attracting excellence employers to our Commonwealth. One concern was in the area of transportation. As location teams evaluate sites, they are very interested in the quality of life for their employees. Traffic in Northern Virginia was cited as the 2nd worst in the nation. Traffic in the tide water area is significant issue as well. Our Global competitors are solving this issue proactively and we cannot afford to fall behind.

Other sessions – The Economic Impact of Healthcare and Federal Legislation, Creating a World Class Workforce, Innovative Economic Development Programs, and A Look at Opportunities and Emerging Industries were rich and resourceful. The Virginia Chamber of Commerce - 2010 Virginia Economic Summit has set a new mark of excellence. Virginia Business is stronger and more focused as a result of the leadership of the new President of the Virginia Chamber of Commerce - Barry DuVal. “Preparing for a Brighter Future” is a foundation that we look forward to building on in Culpeper, Virginia.

Jim Charapich, President/CEO Culpeper County Chamber of Commerce

jcharapich@culpepervachamber.com

Paying attention to govt. is our right, duty

Published November 29,2010 in the Culpeper Star Exponent

“Our destiny is in our hands” is a common quote. Yet, The phrase makes me think about our uncommon opportunity to shape our future. I say opportunity, but is it really our obligation to our children to shape our future? Our Democracy was established by those who held our right to a voice in Government, worthy of defending with one of our most precious resources, the lives of our soldiers. Thus as a sacred honor, we have the opportunity, right, and obligation to pay attention to what happens in our Government and express our views thru the orderly process of working with our elected officials.

On December 2nd, the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce will host our Virginia Senator, Edd Houck, and Delegate, Ed Scott to hear from you the community regarding your organization’s needs, concerns, and legislative ideas. The Legislative Breakfast is a long standing service that the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce provides to members and to the community. This allows our elected officials to hear from many voices in one meeting that may not otherwise be feasible. Senator Edd Houck and Delegate Ed Scott will be able to take the information that they glean from the Legislative Breakfast to consider as they represent us in the Virginia General Assembly. The General Assembly convenes on January 12th in Richmond. As we know, the state and local budgets are being stretched due to the effects of a tough economy. It is up to us to make the case for support or supporting legislation for our needs. Our representatives are skilled legislators, with established experience in advancing opportunities for their constituents when possible. Click here to register now

The meeting will be held at the Country Club of Culpeper, breakfast begins at 8 AM and presentations start at 8:30 AM. We will be taking prewritten outlines (required and subject to approval) from those interested in speaking thru 5 PM, Tuesday November 30th. The meeting is open to the public with pre-registration and payment ($20 per person including breakfast). Register at CulpeperChamber.com or in person at the Culpeper Chamber office at 109 S. Commerce Street – The Depot.

If you are interested in understanding more about the legislative process in Virginia, the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce members, thru the Virginia Chamber of Commerce, are invited to attend Chamber Day at the Capitol on January 26, 2011. Join the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce as a member, mark your calendar, and join us in Richmond to hear from and interact with State Government in person for a rewarding experience.

"Words mean more than what is set down on paper. It takes the human voice to infuse them with deeper meaning." ~  Maya Angelou

Jim Charapich, President/CEO Culpeper County Chamber of Commerce

jcharapich@culpepervachamber.com

Help the United Way this Holiday

Published in the Culpeper Star Exponent on November 15, 2010

The holidays are approaching and our hearts and minds turn toward family and friends. We often take time to celebrate our thanks for our founding heritage while looking forward toward a new year. Many of us reflect upon our faith and find a peace and understanding toward renewed strength for service to our calling and purpose.

However, there are many who are wondering where they will find a Thanksgiving meal. They are wondering how they will heat their home this winter. They may be asking how they will be able to provide the traditional gifts for their loved ones this year.

Our economy has forced many to stretch their resources to limits never felt before. Despite the slow economic recovery, high foreclosure statistics, and local unemployment figures, there are those ready to rise to the call to help others in need. Culpeper is especially unique in this regard. We have a strong woven fabric of support on many levels.

Our Non-Profit, Government, and Church support organizations work with diligent care to secure the volunteers, funding, and other resources providing help when needed. In addition, it is amazing, quite moving, and ultimately inspiring to see the business community in Culpeper offer their support. They are asked to give for many reasons and for many causes. Their generosity is a bright strength in our community.

There are opportunities for each of us to help. If you would like to be a part of the bright strength of service in Culpeper during this holiday season, there are many opportunities…

First, one of the best places to find out about volunteer needs and opportunities is http://piedmontunitedway.org/volunteers.htm. Check it out.

Next, if you want to be a part by making a financial contribution to those in the most need or in a special venue that you would like to support, the Piedmont United Way Office is a great resource. They work with over 50 local organizations to provide support thru United Way contributions.

Finally, the United Way Campaign set a $500,000 goal this year. Their Campaign Team is ready to meet with you and your business associates to set up an easy payroll deduction program or one time contribution. Join the United Way Team today and make this holiday season a brighter place.

"With a good conscience our only sure reward, with history the final judge of our deeds, let us go forth to lead the land we love asking His blessing and His help, but knowing that here on earth God's work must truly be our own." ~ John F. Kennedy

Best regards,
Jim Charapich
President & CEO
Culpeper Chamber of Commerce & Visitor's Center

Chamber focused on jobs in area

Published in the Culpeper Star Exponent on November 8, 2010

The Agenda for the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce will continue to move forward in November and December. We are focused on jobs and the 2011 Legislative Agenda in Richmond. In order to do this we have set dates for 2 key events. The first event is a visit from Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling.

The Lieutenant Governor has been named as the Chief Jobs Creation Officer in the McDonnell Administration. In order to bring this message to our area, the Regional Chambers of Commerce including Orange, Madison, Fauquier, and Culpeper will jointly host the Lieutenant Governor to speak about jobs and job creation in Virginia.

According to a recent update from the Lieutenant Governor’s office, the Governor's Commission on Economic Development and Job Creation released interim recommendations to support job creation in Virginia. Some of the suggestions were as follows: Establish an Emerging Technology Fund, Develop a Tourism Development Grant Program, Transform Academic Institutions into Economic Engines, Do More to Support Small Business Growth, Train Workers for Virginia Businesses, Improve the Coordination, Efficiency and Responsiveness of Government, and Develop More Effective Business Recruitment.

Join us at the Germanna’s Daniel Technology Center in Culpeper on Friday November 19th for a luncheon to hear more. The link for registration is found on the Culpeper Chamber website at CulpeperChamber.com click here to REGISTER NOW. Dr. Jeanne Wesley Vice President for Workforce Development and Community Relations at Germanna Community College will offer a welcome to the Germanna Daniel Technology Center. Delegate Ed Scott will also be on hand to introduce the Lieutenant Governor and add a few comments about our local economy.

Our next event is the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce Annual Legislative Breakfast held at the Country Club of Culpeper. We offer local businesses and organizations the opportunity to address our state representatives regarding important issues for consideration as they plan their agenda for the General Assembly which convenes on January 12th 2011. We are fortunate to have excellent leadership in Richmond. REGISTER NOW According to his website, Senator Edd Houck was elected to the Virginia State Senate in 1983. Senator Houck currently serves on the Finance, Education and Health, Transportation, Rules, and the General Laws and Technology committees. Beginning in the 2008 General Assembly Session, he became Chairman of the Senate Education and Health Committee and the Senate Finance Committee's Health and Human Resources Subcommittee. As the son of a small businessman, Edd Houck was raised to appreciate the values of hard work and diligence.

In addition, according to his website, Delegate Ed Scott serves on the Agriculture, Chesapeake, and Natural Resources, General Laws, Transportation, and Science and Technology Committees. In the 2008 session, Delegate Scott was appointed to serve as chairman of the Transportation Subcommittee dealing with DMV, titling, registration, and insurance issues. Delegate Scott is known for bringing a business perspective to his work as our Delegate. He understands the budgets of small businesses and the consequences of government regulation.

Join us for the 2010 Legislative Conference & Breakfast Thursday, December 2, at 8 AM, presentations begin at 8:30 AM. Go to CulpeperChamber.com for details and registration.

Your Chamber – Your Business – Our Future - Join Us.

Jim Charapich is the President/CEO of the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce. Charapich can be reached at jcharapich@culpepervachamber.com

Much in store at 96th Annual Banquet

Published in the Culpeper Star Exponent on November 1, 2010

Croftburn Farms, Old House Vineyards, and Belmont Farms Distillery are just a few of the special features that we have in store for you at the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce’s 96th Annual Banquet to be held at Germanna’s Daniel Technology Center Thursday, Nov. 4.

Croftburn Farms was the recipient of the Agribusiness of the Year Award for 2010 from the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce. This fits our mission to buy as many of the products used from local sources and members. I am proud to say that we will be serving Croftburn Farms Beef in the main dishes this year. I can’t wait to try the dishes created by Kitchen Gourmet Catering that include the Croftburn Farms Beef.

Our banquet will be moderated by Todd Brown of Brown Harris Investments. Knowing Todd, this is going to be a great evening. Come early to develop your strategy for bidding on the silent auction items. You can find some of the silent auction items displayed on the Chamber website ChamberBanquet.com. Or go to our Facebook page and click on the “Like” button for Chamber updates. There is still time to get your silent auction item in for the banquet.

Our guest speaker this year is from the Virginia Tourism Corporation. Bobbi Walker will provide some great ideas with a mix of humor about customer service. I heard Ms. Walker speak at a Virginia Chamber of Commerce Executives meeting last year. We booked her early as she is in high demand having spoken at many of the Chambers of Commerce events around the state. Ms. Walker has also provided support to Germanna lending her insights at the Workforce and Community Education Advisory meeting that we attended in June. You will be uplifted and inspired by her message.

The Award recipients this year will be very interesting. We have had many names and businesses submitted in each category. The awards to be given are Non-Profit of the Year, Young Professional of the Year, Most Improved Business Location, Small Business Person of the Year, The L.B. Henretty Award, and a new award this year – Business of the Year. The selection committee individuals were given 3 votes for their top choice, 2 votes for their second choice, and one vote for their third choice. When all of the votes were tallied – our 2010 recipients were identified. You will want to be there to see the recipients announced.

Great food and refreshments from local, world renowned producers, entertainment from a world class speaker, recognizing super stars in our local economy, sensational silent auction items, and a once-a-year networking event…..

Your Chamber – Your Business – Our Future - Join Us

Jim Charapich is the President/CEO of the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce. Charapich can be reached at jcharapich@culpepervachamber.com