News

The Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival®’s Valley Health Business-at-the-Bloom Luncheon, presented in conjunction with the Top of Virginia Regional Chamber of Commerce, has proven to be a high-growth event for Festival Organizers in recent years. With the powerhouse backing of Valley Health and the Regional Chamber, this event has evolved into an annual sellout, primarily due to a succession of outstanding, national-level Keynote Speakers. The list is compelling: 2012 – Sheetz, Incorporated, Executive Vice President, Louie Sheetz; 2013 – Alamo Drafthouse Cinemas Founder and CEO, Tim League; 2014 – Entrepreneur and Black Entertainment Television Founder, Sheila Johnson; 2015 – Edward Jones Principal and Chief Human Resources Officer, Anthony McBride; and, 2016 – Navy Federal Credit Executive, Mary McDuffie. It is with great pride that Festival President, Mike Stanfield, adds to this list the name of Sandy Lerner, Co-Founder of Cisco Systems, historic preservationist, diverse entrepreneur, Virginia estate-farmer and philanthropist.

In 1984, Sandy Lerner co-founded Cisco Systems with Leonard Bosack. While employed at Stanford University, the pair worked with others at Stanford and other universities and laboratories to create a network of networks which was the technical foundation of today’s Internet. The routers used to link the diverse computer systems revolutionized the computer communications industry, leading to the technology which enabled the world-wide web and follow-on service providers such as AOL and Google. After leaving Cisco in 1990, Sandy found other passions to explore. In 1992, she purchased and refurbished the Chawton House, a 300-acre manor house and farm dating back to the 1580s in Hampshire, England. Formerly the estate of Jane Austen’s brother, the property is now Chawton House Library and the Centre for the Study of Early English Women’s Writing. Founding Urban Decay in 1995, Lerner sought to provide lipstick and nail polish in a variety of alternative shades beyond traditional pinks and reds. Urban Decay products reached instant success; and, Moet-Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH) acquired the brand in 2000. More recently it sold to L’Oreal, and that company still touts that no product has ever been tested on animals, a founding principle set by Lerner.

Sandy Lerner’s lifelong passion for farming led to her purchase of Ayrshire Farm in Upperville, Virginia in 1996. Fully restored, the farm provides the perfect acreage, location and layout for a sustainable and profit-driven operation. Today, the farm’s mission is to preserve genetically viable heritage variety crops and herds of rare breeds of livestock through humane and sustainable farming practices. Lerner’s choice of rare and endangered heritage breeds is an extension of her quest to help rebuild the local American agricultural infrastructure. She is now turning her attention to the expansion of her Gentle Harvest stores: providing a forum for local farms to sell their products; a market for local residents; and locally grown, healthy fast food for those wanting the drive-thru meal experience. The first store launched in fall 2016, with a Winchester store set to open in 2017.

Once again in 2017, the Valley Health Business-at-the-Bloom Luncheon will be deliciously catered by Carrabba’s Italian Grill. Advance ticket orders may be placed now at Apple Blossom Headquarters; or, on line at the Festival web site: www.thebloom.com. Tickets may be purchased in person when the Festival’s Official Souvenir Store and Ticket Outlet open at 10:00am on Friday, April 7^th, 2017, at 212 East Cork Street, across from the Winchester Moose Lodge. For a Table Reservation fee of $125, over and above the purchase price of 8 tickets, a party of eight can reserve a table with preferred placement along with other desirable perks.

We wish to explore the possibility of holding a 3-night/4-day conference in your region in July 2018.  We are looking for a location in the DelMarVA area within a range of about two hours from either the D.C. area or Baltimore airport.  Please review the attached RFP and assist us in forwarding the information to prospective properties in your region that might be a suitable match for our program.  Our RFP is a composite of arrangements for this meeting that we have made successfully in the past and is based on our meeting preferences.  However, we are open to hear suggestions about possible alternative arrangements, if necessary.  At this point, we are primarily interested in learning about space, amenities and attractions, and likely rates, with the intention of completing a contract within the next few months.  Once we have reviewed responses, we will arrange for site visits to the most likely areas and subsequently pursue a formal contact. We hope to make a final decision by early 2017.  

Thank you for your assistance. 

Sincerely,
Annette McLane
(202) 213-2710

Full CCC RFP (PDF doc)

By Alicia Petska 
alicia.petska@roanoke.com 

The Salem City Council voted to create five tourism zones Monday where eligible projects could qualify for local and state incentives.

The zones — covering about 0.6 square miles or 4.4 percent of the city — encompass downtown, the Salem Civic Center area, the East Main Street gateway, the long-vacant Valleydale Foods plant and a stretch of Kessler Mill Road that includes Parkway Brewing Co.

More detailed policies about incentive options, eligibility criteria and priorities for each zone will now be developed by city staff.

Any incentive packages offered in the future will require the council’s stamp of approval. The zone boundaries can be updated over time as needed to capture new areas of interest in the city.

Salem is the 20th municipality to carve out local tourism zones to capitalize on the state incentive opportunities available through the Virginia Tourism Development Financing Program.

Under that program, state and local authorities agree to help defray the costs of an eligible, locally endorsed project, using a funding formula driven by the amount of sales tax the project generates.

The funding is considered “gap financing” with the developer required to cover more than 70 percent of all project costs.

Localities are given leeway to offer additional local tax breaks and incentives beyond that to help lure projects into the tourism zones.

Salem’s policies will be fleshed out by administrators in the coming weeks.

In an interview, city planner Ben Tripp said the fledgling program has no applicants in the pipeline now, but the initiative is another tool the city can wield as it works to revitalize and create new destination points.

The move comes as the city is intensifying focus on those priorities and starting talks about crafting a Salem-specific tourism plan.

Source: The Roanoke Times, obtained 1Dec2016
http://www.roanoke.com/news/local/salem-city-council-votes-to-create-new-tourism-zones/article_ed38ca1b-5437-5ca7-a157-72ae451f865c.html

Southern Shenandoah Valley Virginia is perfect for a leisurely road trip on country roads that offer beautiful scenery and unique town and country finds. Experience small town charm, tasty food and drink, impressive nature, and relaxing places to stay.

Blue Ridge Parkway view, Southern Shenandoah Valley Virginia

 

Just a few hours from Washington DC, but a world away when you leave the highway and explore roads less traveled, we recommend three to five days to explore the scenic southern Shenandoah Valley from Staunton and Waynesboro to Lexington, Virginia. Or extend your trip further by adding the northern Shenandoah Valley area from Winchester to Harrisonburg.

Shakespeare and History in Staunton Virginia

Staunton is full of surprises, packing a wide range of activities, dining, and history—including a world-renowned Shakespeare theater—into its compact downtown. The historic main street is lined with beautiful architecture and modern shops, making for a fascinating, walkable city.

Things to Do in Staunton

Explore the downtown area on a free Historic Staunton Foundation Architectural Walking Tour (wear comfortable shoes.) Our tour began near the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library, and took a leisurely path to Trinity Church and it’s 12 Tiffany windows, at the other end of Main Street.

Downtown Staunton Virginia

 

There are plenty of unique shops to visit in Staunton including Sunspots Studio where you can watch live, narrated glassblowing demonstrations. You can even join in and help blow your own glass masterpiece like pumpkins and ornaments, which can be picked up the next day or mailed to your home. The shop offers a beautiful collection of glass creations that make great gifts.

Blowing glass Sun Spots Studio Staunton Virginia

 

The American Shakespeare Center,the world’s only authentic recreation of the Blackfriars Theater, should be high on your to do list. The center draws audiences from around the globe to its excellent productions. The company’s motto—”we do it with the lights on”—reflects the authentic productions which forgo props and staging for an intimate and interactive experience. There are even a few seats on stage! Arrive a little early to enjoy music by the actors and to shop for unique shirts and souvenirs.

American Shakespeare Theater Company, Staunton Virginia

 

Eat and Drink Local in Staunton

There are many options for a drink and a bite in downtown Staunton. Yelping Dog Wine Bar is a nice spot for a glass of wine and a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich, or a cheese and charcuterie board featuring local cheese. The rich #9 with swiss, gruyere, and wine-braised onions; and the Triple M with mozzarella, meatballs, and marinara; will both warm your senses on a chilly day. The house Yelping Dog white from Saint Michel and the red from Livingston, are great choices if you want to sample local Virginia wines.

Yelping Dog Wine Bar Staunton Virginia

 

Many restaurants were packed during our busy weekend visit, and we weren’t able to get a table at the highly recommended Mill St Grill or ZYNODOA. Instead, we had pizza at Byers Bistro and tasty pasta at Emilio’s.

You’ll find excellent local craft beer in a casual space at Redbeard Brewing Company. Sweet Potato Pie, a nod to the season and a break from the ubiquitous pumpkin beer was delicious, as were the two Moriartys with rye or bourbon.

Redbeard Brewing Company Staunton Virginia

 

Where to Stay in Staunton

As with Waynesboro, lodging can be difficult to secure when Charlottesville is hosting large events, as the bookings spill over into nearby areas. The Sleep Inn, Staunton, on the Jefferson Highway, offers clean, attractive, and comfortable rooms a short drive the downtown area.

Sleep Inn Staunton Virginia

 

Explore Blue Ridge Country in Waynesboro and Augusta County

A few miles east of Staunton, Waynesboro is another good base for exploring the Shenandoah Valley. The town sits between Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway, so it’s an excellent starting point for a scenic drive. The town’s location also provides a midpoint between Charlottesville and Staunton, making it a good base for events in either town.

Things to Do in Waynesboro and Augusta County

Start your Blue Ridge drive at the Humpback Rocks Visitor Center at mile 5.8, which includes a collection of 1890s farm buildings, a picnic area, and trail access. During the summer, you may see musicians and artisans performing period activities. Drive south on the Parkway to enjoy the views from the road and overlooks.

Humpback Rocks Visitor Center Blue Ridge VA

 

Several popular hiking trails leave from a parking area across from the Visitor Center. The John Albright Loop Trail is a moderate 3.5-mile loop hike which includes a spur trail to Glass Hollow Overlook. Alternatively, you can follow the AT to the overlook, reducing to a 3 mile out and back hike.

Glass Hollow Overlook Blue Ridge Parkway VA

 

Finally, you can make the more challenging  climb to Humpback Rocks overlook and summit, to enjoy gorgeous westward views of the Shenandoah Valley.

Sunset on Humpback Rocks, Virginia, photo credit: Katherine McCool

 

Back in town, be sure to stop at Constitution Park for pictures of the fishing inspired LOVEwork. The park also offers a picnic spot, short riverside hike, and river access for fishing and paddling.

LOVEwork Waynesboro Virginia

 

Eat and Drink Local in Waynesboro and Augusta County

Basic City Beer Company occupies a former iron foundry, renovated by brother/owners Bart and Chris who even created tables using reclaimed wood and pipes from the building’s sprinkler system. Every craft beer we tried was wonderful, but we particularly liked the Oopsprach Lager and the N & W Porter. Food trucks are often on hand, there’s a spacious game room with a giant movie screen, and showers are available for AT through-hikers taking a break from the trail.

Basic City Beer Company Waynesboro Virginia

 

A short drive into the country leads to one of the prettiest Virginia farm breweries we’ve visited. Craig Nargi opened Stable Craft Brewery in 2016 after years of as a chef and horse farmer. The tasting room occupies a pretty barn, with hints of the stalls still visible. A delicious beer-inspired menu pairs perfectly with the wide range of beers on tap. Every beer we tried was tasty, and we particularly liked the Appalachian Divide Ale and the Night Latch American Stout. Outside there are fire pits, games, and gorgeous views all around. Note that Stable Craft is a working horse farm and dogs are not allowed on the property.

Stable Craft Brewery Waynesboro Virginia

 

Where to Stay in Waynesboro and Augusta County

The Best Western Waynesboro is a good choice for a spacious, comfortable room at a good rate with breakfast included. The location along route 64 allows easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Best Western Waynesboro Virginia

 

Hikes and History in Lexington and Rockbridge County

Things to Do in Lexington and Rockbridge County

There are several fun roads for the drive south to Lexington, perfect for avoiding the highway and exploring the countryside. You could drive south on the Blue Ridge Parkway, exiting at Snowden, or follow historic route 11 as it parallels 81.

If time allows, we recommend a scenic drive on route 252, with a short side trip to Wade’s Mill. The beautiful, working mill produces and sells flour, grits, and cornmeal made with local grains. They also sell jams and the southern most maple syrup, produced in Bolar Virginia.

Wades Mill Raphine Virginia

 

Lexington’s downtown is a lovely, walkable area full of unique shops, tasty dining, and interesting history. Tour the Stonewall Jackson House to learn about Confederate General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson before his commanding role in the US Civil War. Jackson lived two critical years of his private life in the Lexington home. Original and period furnishings help docents tell the story of Jackson’s dedication and industry, and of the lives of his family and the enslaved people who worked in his house.

Stonewall Jackson House Lexington Virginia

 

The nearby Stonewall Jackson Cemetery includes a monument to the general, Jackson’s family plot, and other historic markers.

Stonewall Jackson Cemetery Lexington Virginia

 

Lee Chapel and Museum, on the grounds of Washington and Lee University, honors the life of Robert E. Lee, who became the school’s President after the Civil War. At the back of the beautiful chapel is Lee’s tomb. Exhibits in the museum downstairs highlight George Washington and Robert E. Lee’s dedication to education as a key to building and growing the nation.

Lee Chapel and Museum Lexington Virginia

 

Just 15 miles south of Lexington you’ll find Natural Bridge State Park, which recently changed from private ownership to become the newest Virginia State Park. The highlight of any visit is the 500 million year old bridge—215 feet high, 40 feet thick, and 100 yards wide. The natural formation is so large and sturdy that route 11 actually passes across it’s top (sorry, no viewpoint from the road). Visitors can reach the bridge via a long series of steps or by shuttle bus.

Natural Bridge State Park Virginia

 

Allow time to walk under and beyond the bridge to visit the excellent Monacan Indian Living History Exhibit. The Cedar Creek Trail continues to a saltpeter mine and Lost River, and ends with a pretty view of Lace Falls, about .8 miles one way. There are 6 miles of trails in the park if you want to do more hiking.

Monacan Living History Natural Bridge Virginia

 

Once you’ve seen the geological wonders above ground, it’s time to head below on a tour of the Caverns at Natural Bridge. The fascinating 45-minute tours guide visitors along tunnels, rooms, ponds, and formations that continue to develop and change today. Bring a jacket—the temperature remains a constant 54 degrees in the caverns. If you visit the Caverns first, you can purchase a discounted combination ticket with Natural Bridge State Park.

Natural Bridge Caverns entrance Virginia

 

If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, we highly recommend climbing the Belfast Trail to Devil’s Marbleyard. The trail is part of the James River Face Wilderness area, and offers a fairly steep 1.4 mile climb to an area strewn with huge rocks that are fun to explore, and offer beautiful mountain views.

Devils Marbleyard view Natural Bridge Virginia

 

Eat and Drink Local in Lexington and Rockbridge County

Like most college towns, Lexington offers a nice range of dining options. If you like fried chicken you should head to the Southern Inn Restaurant for their crispy, moist, classic. The Bistro on Main is a good pick for lunch featuring delicious salads, soups, and sandwiches. After your meal, stop at Sweet Things Ice Cream Shoppe for rich, tasty homemade ice creams and sherbets.

Bistro on Main Lexington Virginia

 

Lexington is on the Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail, and beer lovers can sample Virginia craft brews at several locations in and near town. Stop at Blue Lab Brewery in downtown Lexington to enjoy a range of beers and their popular trivia nights. North of town, Devils Backbone Outpost Brewery & Tap Room, offers their flagship Vienna Lager along with a nice range of their other brews. If the weather is good, enjoy your pint with lovely mountain views on the back patio.

Devils Backbone Outpost view Lexington Virginia

 

In Natural Bridge, the new Great Valley Farm Brewery serves local beer with a view. Natty B’s General Store and Cafe, is a good stop for sandwiches and snacks near the state park.

Where to Stay in Lexington and Rockbridge County

The Hampton Inn Lexington is not your typical chain hotel property. Housed in a manor house known as the Col Alto Mansion, you’ll find historic touches, comfortable rooms, and a convenient location on the seven acre property. Most rooms have a contemporary design, but there are 10 restored manor rooms available, some with period decor.

Hampton Inn Historic Downtown Lexington, Virginia

 

Natural Bridge Historic Hotel is right next to the entrance to the state park, offering a unique spot to overnight when you visit Natural Bridge.

Southern Shenandoah Valley Road Trip Tips

Southern Shenandoah Valley Virginia road trip

 

Many people, like us, have traveled through the southern Shenandoah Valley on busy highway 81 without ever enjoying all that the region has to offer. To make the most of your visit:

• Get off the highway. Route 11 is the obvious alternate since it parallels the highway, but there are plenty of smaller, beautiful country roads that take you into the heart of the valley. Make time to explore a road less traveled
• Take it slow. The beauty of a road trip through southern Shenandoah Valley is the change to see and experience something new. Enjoy the country roads; stop at a farm stand; visit a brewery; poke around a small town.
• Extend the fun. If you allow extra time you can extend your road trip into northern Shenandoah Valley or east onto Skyline Drive.

Have you explored the  Southern Shenandoah Valley of Virginia? We’d love to hear your tips on favorite stops for our next visit.

Follow Fun in Fairfax VA on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram for more fun places to visit and things to do in Northern Virginia and surrounding areas.

Portions of our Southern Shenandoah Valley road trip were hosted by Waynesboro Tourism, Rockbridge County Virginia, Visit Staunton, and Visit Lexington. 

Source: FunInFairfaxVA.com, obtained 11/28/16
http://www.funinfairfaxva.com/southern-shenandoah-valley-virginia/

In a definitive ruling issued earlier today, the federal district court for the Eastern District of Texas granted an emergency request to put a hold on the December 1, 2016, effective date for the new federal overtime rule, until it can rule on two challenges to the rule itself. The court said today that the plaintiffs, in this case, 21 state attorneys general challenging the overtime rule, "demonstrated a substantial likelihood of success” on their case’s merits regarding the unlawfulness of the DOL's final rule. The court’s action stops the rule nationwide.

Source:
Virginia Restaurant, Lodging & Travel Association
2101 Libbie Avenue
Richmond, Virginia 23230

The US state of Virginia is looking to leverage Singapore as a hub to target corporate and leisure travellers from South-east Asia. 

To that end, Terry McAuliffe, governor of Virginia, who was on a trade mission to Japan, South Korea, Singapore and Australia last week, said he would like to see Singapore Airlines (SIA) operate direct flights to Washington Dulles International Airport.  

Washington Dulles International Airport

Rita McClenny, president and CEO, Virginia Tourism Corporation, said: “United Airlines (UA) and Air China currently offer the biggest number of direct flights between Beijing and Dulles and the governor has renegotiated a revised agreement with UA to commit to Dulles airport to 2024.”

She adds that the purpose of coming to Singapore is to raise awareness about business and tourism opportunities in Virginia and to “talk to airlines and tour operators to create US tour packages that incorporate a two- to-four-night stay in Virginia”. 

Hopes are for SIA to operate non-stop services to Dulles as well, even as the national carrier is set to resume direct flights to New York – which is a five-hour drive from Virginia’s capital of Richmond – in 2018. 

Asia contributes an estimated 510,000 arrivals out of 1.7 million international visitors to Virginia annually.

Source: http://ttgasia.com/article.php?article_id=28366
Obtained: November 22, 2016

October 25, 2016

From up-and-coming gems to tried-and-true escapes, these travel destinations have seen some serious vacation rental buzz in 2016. We’re turning the spotlight on rising stars like Guntersville and Page while also highlighting classic vacation spots that have received a boost thanks to big events like the National Park Service Centennial.

Some (like Holden Beach and Little Gasparilla Island) are kid-friendly locales with breathtaking scenery and laid-back attractions that make it easier to unplug and spend time as a family. Others (like the Shenandoah Valley and all six national parks on the list) are getaway spots great for outdoor enthusiasts, from casual day hikers to serious thrill-seekers. And a handful (like Knoxville, Waco and Kansas City) are vibrant urban areas that got downright awesome while you weren’t looking.

There’s no real pattern here—unless you count the resurgence of America’s national parks!—but all 25 destinations have one thing in common: a unique selection of TripAdvisor vacation rentals that will save you money, upgrade your experience and place you in the middle of all the action.

Click through the slideshow below to discover which rental destinations are trending this year, why their popularity is at a fever pitch, and where you should plan a trip in 2017—because whatever ‘adventure’ means to you, your next vacation should be one.

Full article and slideshow here. 

Source: tripadvisor (vacation rentals blog), accessed 10Nov2016
https://www.tripadvisor.com/VacationRentalsBlog/2016/10/25/travel-destinations-rising-interest-vacation-rentals/

Commonwealth of Virginia
Office of Governor Terry McAuliffe

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 25, 2016

Office of the Governor
Contact: Brian Coy
Email: Brian.Coy@governor.virginia.gov

Virginia Tourism Corporation
Contact: Caroline Logan
Phone: (804) 545-5572
Email: clogan@virginia.org

Governor McAuliffe Announces New Virginia Tourism Growth Fund Project in Lynchburg

~ Locust Thicket will create new local jobs, revenue,
economic impact on local businesses ~

RICHMOND – Governor Terry McAuliffe today announced the award of a $72,000 grant from the Virginia Tourism Growth Fund (VTGF) to assist with the redevelopment of the Lynchburg Historic District Locust Thicket. With the assistance of this grant, the Locust Thicket property will be converted into a Historical Tourism Precinct featuring arts, dining and special events, educational activities, as well as retail and residential spaces. The VTGF grant program, managed by the Virginia Tourism Corporation, was established to grow tourism development projects across the state.  

“The development of this new dynamic attraction is an exciting addition to Lynchburg’s overall tourism experience,” said Governor Terry McAuliffe. “Locust Thicket will provide new dining, lodging, and event options for visitors, and will increase the impact of tourism in Lynchburg and the surrounding areas. We will continue to invest in projects that positively contribute to the community and further our efforts in building the new Virginia economy across the Commonwealth.”

“As an instant revenue generator for the Commonwealth, tourism’s continued growth is critical to a diversified economy,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Todd Haymore. “Last year, visitors to Lynchburg spent nearly $177 million, which supported more than 1,600 jobs and contributed more than $12 million in state and local taxes. Locust Thicket is a timely and attractive addition for Lynchburg, helping to improve the city’s infrastructure and ability to welcome travelers from around the world.”

Owners Paul Hughes and Sarah Quinn have purchased the Lynchburg Historic District Locust Thicket with the intention of converting the property into a tourism attraction for the City of Lynchburg. Two additional adjoining lots were also acquired to gain access to the property's original ice house and to add substantial car parking capacities to the development. The project, which represents a capital investment of $480,000, will create 14 new jobs and a tax benefit of more than $51,500 in its first full year of operation. 

Paul Hughes, Co-Owner of Locust Thicket commented, “Lynchburg has many wonderful tourism-based attractions and museums, particularly those of a historic nature, however none of these existing attractions offer any kind of food or beverage offers. Locust Thicket is an historic attraction with a captivating story over many generations and eras i.e. Revolutionary War, The War of 1812, The Civil War etc., and it is our goal to share it with the Citizens of Lynchburg as well as visiting tourists by offering a unique dining environment housed within a Lynchburg Historic District.” 

Locust Thicket Co-Owner Sarah Quinn added, “The Precinct will provide a range of Arts, Dining and Special Event facilities including a full-service restaurant and bar called The Manor House at Locust Thicket which will incorporate indoor and outdoor dining facilities, specialty events, group and event dining with a focus on locally-sourced products, as well as offering shuttle bus transportation for guests from local hotels and tours to other local and regional tourism attractions as well.”

“Heritage tourism matters. Locust Thicket provides new dining, lodging, and event options for visitors and residents, and will increase the impact of heritage tourism in Lynchburg and the surrounding areas,” said Delegate Scott Garrett. “This type of historical and locally-owned business is indicative of entrepreneurs who make Lynchburg and our entire region, so authentic and appealing.”

“This effort to work with the City of Lynchburg to welcome larger groups of visitors is important to Lynchburg’s tourism vitality,” said Senator Stephen Newman. “This type of local collaboration is an excellent example of resource leveraging in action. The impact these new visitors can have on other local lodging, dining, event, sports and outdoor experiences can be substantial.”

“Through our planning and economic development offices, the City of Lynchburg has worked with Locust Thicket for several years to prepare for the redevelopment of this historic property into a regional attraction and fully functioning food and beverage facility,” said Joan Foster, Mayor of the City of Lynchburg. “These efforts, including the addition of a shuttle bus supported by the Virginia Tourism Growth Fund, will fill a void in the City’s tourism offerings and will continue to showcase Lynchburg as a great place to live, work, play and visit.”

“Locust Thicket has been part of Lynchburg’s history for over 200 years and it is our goal to ensure that it continues to add significant value and jobs to the Lynchburg community for many years to come through a wide range of activities,” added H. Michael Lucado, Chair of the Lynchburg Economic Development Authority. “The project will generate 14 new full-time jobs and revenues from real estate, meals and sales taxes far exceeding incentive dollars within the first three years. The redeveloped Locust Thicket Historic District will be an excellent showcase of the City’s history and a tourism and economic development driver for our region.”

Tourism is an instant revenue generator in Virginia. In 2015, visitors to Virginia spent $23 billion, which supported 223,100 jobs and contributed $1.6 billion in state and local taxes.

About the Virginia Tourism Growth Fund

The Virginia Tourism Growth Fund (VTGF) is a Virginia Tourism Corporation program established to grow tourism development projects to include new or expanded facilities or venues for lodging, recreation, entertainment, epicurean, cultural, or destination retail products or services designed to attract travelers to the Commonwealth. Both non-profit and for-profit private sector businesses are eligible to apply. VTGF grant awards cannot exceed 15 percent of project cost and there is a minimum one to one local match of VTGF grant award. The project must create net new jobs and public financing cannot exceed 30 percent of project cost. For more information on the Virginia Tourism Growth Fund, click here.

###

To view the published release, please visit: https://goo.gl/mFs3X3

Elliot Meyer
Press Assistant
Office of Governor Terence R. McAuliffe
Direct: (804) 786-4401
General: (804) 786-2211

All SVTA members want more media, and Page County has found a new partner, the Small Business Administration, to help get it.

(From Page County’s Director of Community and Economic Development):

“Carl Knoblock of the Small Business Administration (SBA) will be partnering with our local businesses in Page County on Small Business Saturday.  He plans to engage media to travel with us during the day, visiting participating local merchants to feature their products and/or services.  This can be great exposure for our businesses, especially for the upcoming holiday season! Mr. Knoblock is well known and respected with many years of experience in business and working for SBA across the several states.  He has dedicated his time in many communities on Small Business Saturday and I am thrilled he has offered to spend it with us in Page County this year.  Please help us get the word out!  I will need a count on participation to let him know as soon as possible so that he can schedule accordingly. “

Please advise at your earliest convenience if you would like to participate. 

Share this message and help encourage participation on Small Business Saturday in Page County!

Stephanie Lillard
Director of Community & Economic Development
(O) 540-743-1216 (M) 540-244-9235 (F) 540-743-4533
County of Page
103 S. Court Street, Suite B
Luray, Virginia 22835

Author: Alan Richman

The state of Virginia blessed this country with Washington, Jefferson, Madison, and Monroe, boldface names from our political past, and added four later presidents as a bonus. Native sons drafted the Declaration of Independence and much of the Constitution, a proud accomplishment, but the state would ultimately falter. Less than a hundred years later, with nearly a third of its population in slavery, Virginia left the Union and Richmond became the capital of the Confederacy. In other words, a checkered past.

Read full article here.

Source: Town & Country, obtained 10/13/16
http://www.townandcountrymag.com/leisure/travel-guide/a7991/long-weekend-in-virginia/