CHAMBER NEWS
Eric Sichau is our new President & CEO ๐Ÿ’ผ
2023 brings change to the Chamber's leadership. Joyce Waugh, our long-time President & CEO, retired on December 31. Eric Sichau, our former Vice President of Membership Services, took over the role on January 1.

If you haven't, please read his note to membership.

It might be a time of transition, but the holiday break has reenergized your Chamber team, and we are ready to make 2023 one to remember! We hope to see you at an event soon.

Stay tuned for The President's Minute, a new twice-monthly video segment sponsored by CMIT Solutions of Roanoke. Eric will share bite-sized updates on everything Chamber.
DECEMBER 2022 - NEW MEMBERS
Welcome our newest members! ๐Ÿ‘‹
  • Bass Financial Management - independently minded financial advisors with a coaching mindset who provide a high-touch, individual approach for each of our clients to help you stay the course.


  • Farm Bureau Bank - Since 1999, Farm Bureau Bank has focused on providing an exceptional banking experience to our members in rural America and across the country. 

CHAMBER NEWS
Our 2023 VBR Life shipment arrives next Wednesday! ๐Ÿ“ฆ
We just received word that our 2023 VBR Life shipment will arrive next Wednesday, January 18. And we can't wait! ๐Ÿ‘

Dr Pepper Park at the Bridges is on the COVER this year, and they are so deserving.

VBR Life is used in economic development efforts and promotion of the region to visitors and new residents. The publication explores the region across pillars: Business, Education, Healthcare, Real Estate/Neighborhoods, Retirement, Arts & Culture/Entertainment, and Shopping/Retail.

Request a box of VBR Life for your business: bit.ly/3BKEhVJ.

VBR Life is made possible with support from our partners LeisureMedia360 and the Salemโ€“Roanoke County Chambers of Commerce. 
133RD ANNUAL MEETING OF THE MEMBERSHIP
Fewer than TEN tickets remain! LAST CALL! โฐ
We have less than TEN tickets remaining for our 133rd Annual Meeting of the Membership, Presented by Berglund Automotive. This is shaping up to be our biggest-ever Annual Meeting. Get your seat before they are gone!
What can you expect if you attend? Along with a recap of 2022, we'll highlight the Chamber's 2023 priorities. Plus, we're excited to recognize outstanding members of the community, including:

๐Ÿฅ Healthcare Heroes (Carilion Clinic, LewisGale Medical Center)
๐Ÿ† Joyce Waugh, retired Chamber CEO (22 years of service)
๐Ÿ‘ฎ Officers of the Year (Roanoke City, Roanoke County)
๐Ÿซ And the Teacher of the Region

We'll also recognize the contributions of Chamber Ambassadors, Total Resource Campaign teams and volunteers, and our outgoing Board Chair.

Annual Meeting is one of the largest gatherings of executives, elected officials, business owners, and civic leaders in the region.

What: 133rd Annual Meeting, Presented by Berglund Automotive
When: January 26, 2023 | 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Where: The Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center
Cost: $135/ticket | $1000/table of eight
Our 133rd Annual Meeting of the Membership is Presented By:
Platinum Sponsor:
Gold Sponsors:
Happy Hour Sponsors:
OTHER UPCOMING EVENTS
Secure your seat, register now!๐Ÿ“…
Please join us to celebrate the retirement of Joyce Waugh! Joyce served the Chamber for 22 years, including 14 as President & CEO. 

Steady leadership defined her tenure. The Chamber (and our region!) is better positioned due to her efforts.

๏ปฟTHANK YOU, Joyce.

This is a FREE event to attend.

Light appetizers will be provided. A Cash Bar will be available.

When: 1/27 | 2:00 - 5:00pm
Where: The Shenandoah Club
Cost: FREE
Presented by ValleyStar Credit Union
Our 2023 Women of the Chamber Luncheon Series, presented by ValleyStar Credit Union, returns on February 23. 

We're excited to welcome Anne Millehan, founder of Millehan Coaching and Consulting!

Anne will discuss how leaders in all walks of life tend to focus on self-limiting thoughts and the noise surrounding us in our business and personal lives. When we dwell on those thoughts, we limit our potential.

When: 2/23 | 11:30am - 1:00 pm
Where: Holiday Inn Tanglewood
Cost: $40.00
NETWORKING OPPORTUNITY
Thursday Overtime is now Off the Clock! ๐Ÿป
New year, new branding. Thursday Overtime is now Off the Clock! We're heading out to Brady's Distillery on Thursday, February 16.

Other than a name change (and a slight time adjustment), everything else is just like you remember! Come unwind after work with members.

Whether you're a longtime member or new to the Chamber, this is a great opportunity to talk business in a casual atmosphere, make new connections, and enjoy some delicious beverages.

Location: Brady's Distillery
Date: Thursday, February 16, 2023
Time: 4 - 6 p.m.
Cost: There is no cost to attend. Food and beverages are on individual tabs. 
MEMBER NEWS
Announcements, Deals, and Other News ๐Ÿ“ฐ
CMIT Solutions of Roanoke is offering a FREE 1-hour on-site security awareness training.
Gentry Locke announced four new partners: David R. Berry, Charles L. Calton, D. Scott Foster Jr. and Alicha M. Grubb.
Save at Staples! Get $10 off printing and marketing materials when you spend $50 or more. PLUS - get 20% back via Store Bonus.
The 2022 concert season was HUGE at Dr Pepper Park...and they are doing it again this year! Save money all season long with a 2023 Season Pass!
You're invited! Attend the 14th Annual Roanoke Regional Writers Conference on January 20-21 at Hollins University.
CMR Institute is seeking a Director of Finance & Operations. Learn more about the role, its responsibilities, and the required qualifications.
UPCOMING VA WEST EVENT
Last Call for Capital Reception! โฐ
Please join the VA West Business and Legislative Coalition for the 2023 Capital Reception with members of the region's legislative delegation.

You don't want to miss this opportunity to meet with elected leaders and promote your business interests. Invited guests include delegates and senators from these regions:

Bedford Area, Danville & Pittsylvania Counties, Greater Augusta Region, Harrisonburg-Rockingham, Lexington, Buena Vista, & Rockbridge Counties, Halifax County, Lynchburg Region, Martinsville & Henry Counties, Montgomery County, Roanoke Region, Salem-Roanoke County, Shenandoah County, Smith Mountain Lake Region, Top of Virginia Region, Two Virginias Region, and Wytheville, Wythe, & Bland Counties.

Tickets are $49. The evening includes networking, drinks, and light appetizers.
Platinum Sponsors:
A WORD FROM OUR SPONSOR
Entrรฉ Computer Center ๐Ÿ’ป