March 3, 2025
What an incredible time we had at Culpeper Renaissance Inc.’s Carnival Celebration this weekend! Downtown was buzzing with excitement—from Mardi Gras-inspired crafts and activities to amazing specials at our local businesses!
We loved seeing the carriage rides, magic shows, live performances, and so much more bringing joy to our community. A huge thank you to Culpeper Renaissance, Inc. and our vibrant downtown business community for putting together such a fun and festive event!
March 4, 2025
A huge thank you to Prince Michel Vineyard & Winery for the thoughtful Valentine’s Day gift of amaryllis bulbs for our staff!
Your kindness added a touch of beauty to our workspace, and we’re thrilled to share that six stunning blooms have emerged on Amys bulb!
Moments like these remind us how special our local businesses are—spreading joy in the most thoughtful ways.
March 4, 2024
𝐆𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐁𝐚𝐜𝐤 & 𝐇𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐅𝐮𝐧 𝐚𝐭 𝐋𝐮𝐱𝐮𝐫𝐲 𝐁𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐨!
On Saturday, March 1, Sarah spent the evening volunteering at the Friends of SAFE‘s Luxury Bingo Mardi Gras Fundraiser—and what a night it was! She didn’t snap too many photos—she was too busy having fun with her amazing team of young volunteers—but the energy in the room was unforgettable.
With exciting bingo games, great music, and delicious food from local restaurants, everyone had a fantastic time—all while raising funds to support SAFE – Services to Abused Families, Inc. and the important work they do for local families.
Thank you to everyone who made this event such a success!
March 5, 2025
From Dairy Farms to Horticulture: Culpeper’s Agricultural Evolution
Did you know that Culpeper was once home to hundreds of dairy farms, shaping its economy and community? While the last dairy farm closed in 2021, agriculture remains a driving force—now led by horticulture, small farms, and innovative young farmers. How is farmland adapting to rapid growth? What’s the future of agriculture in Culpeper?
Find out in the new Community Guide! Grab your copy today! #CulpeperFarms #RootedInCommunity #supportlocal
Read More Here: 2025 Culpeper Chamber Guide :: 24
March 6, 2025
In April of 2024, The Culpeper Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business Advisory Council hosted a presentation Kiersten Banks, of Banks Graphic Design on best practices for Small Businesses using Social Media!
The replay can be found on our YouTube channel, YouTube.com/@CulpeperChamber
March 6, 2025
We love seeing Culpeper Dental Associates and 3RC Services—both members of the Culpeper Chamber Business Community—work together to create something amazing!
3RC Services recently completed a stunning office transformation for Culpeper Dental Associates, enhancing their space with new exam rooms, upgraded facilities, and a fresh, modern look. This is what local business collaboration is all about—helping each other grow and succeed!
Hats off to both teams for their dedication to excellence. Check out the video to see the impressive results!
March 7, 2025
Looking for a great HR resource?
Today, Amy had the chance to connect with Chamber Member John Thalheimer from True Star Leadership, and he shared a copy of his latest book with us – The Ultimate Guide to HR, Checklists Edition! This isn’t just a book full of checklists—it’s a step-by-step guide to navigating essential HR functions with confidence.
With over 85 checklists, it covers everything from hiring and performance management to creating a positive work environment. Whether you’re an HR pro or a small business owner handling HR on your own, this guide is a great tool to have on hand.
Stop by the Chamber office to take a look, or grab your own copy here:
https://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Guide-Checklists-Step-Step/dp/B0DRSL18HR
March 12, 2025
Today, we celebrated the ribbon cutting at Earthquest – Wildlife Education Center alongside our friends from the Orange County Chamber of Commerce, Inc.!
We had the incredible opportunity to meet Storm and see her brand-new enclosure, plus get up close with amazing birds of prey, parrots, cockatiels, and more. It was a fun and educational experience, and we’re so excited for all the great work Earthquest is doing!
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this special event!
March 13, 2025
The Culpeper Chamber’s Small Business Advisory Council welcomed Clarissa Mae Fleming to present on “Creating a Clear Financial Vision for your Small Business.”
The replay can be found on our YouTube channel, YouTube.com/@CulpeperChamber
March 13, 2025
Registration is Now Open for Women’s LIFT 2025!
Join us for an inspiring afternoon at Women’s LIFT—an event designed to promote, build, and empower women in our community!
Date: Wednesday, April 9, 2025
Time: 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Location: Prince Michel Vineyard & Winery, Leon, VA
Enjoy engaging speakers, meaningful connections, and hands-on activities that will leave you feeling refreshed and motivated.
Secure your spot today! https://members.culpeperchamber.com/events/details/women-s-lift-2025-62060
March 17, 2025
Honoring Our Local Heroes
On Saturday, we had the privilege of attending the Culpeper County Volunteer Fire Department’s Annual Meeting, joined by two members of the Culpeper Young Professionals Group, Winona Pritts and Tyler Martin. It was an inspiring evening recognizing the dedication and sacrifices of these incredible volunteers who keep our community safe.
Celebrating Service & Dedication:
This year’s service awards recognized an astonishing 1,171 years of service combined. A special shoutout to Past Chief Kenny Mills, who ran 656 calls and gave an incredible 2,031 hours in 2024, and to Chief of the Department and Chamber Board Member Jr. Perryman, who ran 415 calls!
Some of the many 2024 Stats:
-16 structure fires -940 dispatches
-709 times made it on scene -Average of 6 personnel per call
-Average response time: 3 minutes 15 seconds
Hours Volunteered at the Department:
-3,827 hours of training -2,982 hours volunteering at events
-1,178 hours fundraising -1,699 hours in meetings
-7,029 hours running calls -2,832 hours on standby
Total: 20,107 hours – saving taxpayers over $540,000!
Remembering Allen Seale
We also want to take a moment to honor Allen Seale, Vice President of Company 1, who dedicated 35 years to the department and sadly passed away on Saturday. His loss is deeply felt, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and the entire department during this difficult time.
Thank you to all our volunteer firefighters for your unwavering commitment, sacrifice, and service to Culpeper. Our community is safer because of you!
March 17, 2025
Creativity, Innovation & Hands-On Fun at the Maker Energy Faire!
We had an amazing time at Career Partners’ Maker Energy Faire on Saturday, where kids from our community got to explore, create, and innovate through an incredible variety of hands-on activities!
Some of the awesome experiences included:
Shirt making Rappahannock Electric circuit boards
Electric go-kart Puzzle making & LEGO fun
Putt-putt Green screen videos & photo booth
Nail & string art Robotics with Culpeper Robotics
Police Department drones UVA’s Da Vinci Robot
Video games & 3D holograms Perler beads, fairy hair & face painting
Cupcake decorating Evolution of automobiles
Playdate activities like parachute making, marble tunnels, pretend play and more
Cedar Mountain Stone station Coding and Cyber Security
Able Heating & Air Swag and learning more about HVAC
Door Prizes
And so much more!
It was incredible seeing so many young minds engaged and inspired through STEAM-based learning and creative play. Events like this help shape future engineers, artists, scientists, and innovators right here in Culpeper!
A huge thank you to Career Partners and all the organizations who made this event possible. Looking forward to next year!
March 18, 2025
Celebrating Creativity at the Culpeper County Public Schools Art Show!
This weekend, we had the privilege of attending the Countywide Art Show at the Germanna Daniel Technology Center, and what an amazing event it was!
A huge thank you to the dedicated art teachers and school faculty who put this incredible showcase together, allowing our community to celebrate the talent and creativity of public school students across Culpeper. From kindergarten through 12th grade, every age was represented, displaying artwork in a wide variety of mediums—each piece a testament to the imagination and skill of our young artists!
Congratulations to all the artists! Your work was truly inspiring, and we are so grateful for the opportunity to experience your creativity firsthand.
March 18, 2025
Congratulations to Roy Boldridge, our 2025 Agribusiness of the Year!
On National Agriculture Day, we were proud to recognize Roy for his outstanding contributions to Culpeper’s farming community. As the owner of Homeland Farm in Rixeyville, Roy’s dedication to sustainable agriculture, innovative grazing practices, and community leadership has made a lasting impact.
A true pioneer, Roy embraced rotational grazing nearly 15 years before the Graze 300 VA program was officially launched—proving that forward-thinking and adaptability are key to success in modern farming. His methods have helped him graze cattle nearly year-round, significantly reducing hay costs while maintaining herd health.
Beyond his farm, Roy serves as Secretary of Culpeper Agriculture Enterprises and President of the Culpeper Madison Feeder Cattle Association, strengthening the local ag industry through his leadership and advocacy.
Recently, Roy’s son, Carter, joined the farm, bringing fresh energy and a shared commitment to continuing the family’s agricultural legacy. Together, they are shaping the future of Homeland Farm with a focus on sustainability and innovation.
Please join us in celebrating Roy and Carter Boldridge for their hard work, innovation, and dedication to preserving and advancing Culpeper’s agricultural heritage.
March 20, 2025
Volunteer Opportunity- Living the Dream 5k Support 4.5.25
The Culpeper Young Professionals are excited to assist the Living the Dream Foundation with a day of service, volunteering at their 9th Annual 5K and Walk for Hope at Yowell Meadow Park . This event helps raise awareness about depression, substance abuse, and suicide in our community.
They’re look for volunteers throughout the event! Tasks will be assigned on the day of and may include:
-Managing the registration desk
-Selling raffle and quilt tickets
-Assisting with T-shirt sales
-Keeping runners in line before takeoff
-Helping at the bead and food areas
-Taking event photographs
Please review the available time slots below and click the button to sign up. Individual tasks will be assigned on the day of the event. Thank you for you support!
March 23, 2025
CulpeperCon 2025 was a tremendous success!
Thank you to the Culpeper County Library for hosting such a dynamic and engaging event. The weekend kicked off with an exciting Cosplay Contest on Friday evening, sponsored by our valued partner, UVA Health Culpeper Medical Center, showcasing the remarkable creativity and talent in our community.
Saturday featured a full day of activities, presentations, games, crafts, artists, writers and valuable resources, offering something for everyone. It was inspiring to see attendees of all ages enjoying the diverse programming and celebrating their shared interests.
We are also grateful to our Chamber members who participated, helping to make the event even more impactful. Events like CulpeperCon highlight the power of collaboration and the vibrant spirit of our community.
March 24, 2025
Thank you to everyone who joined us for State of the Community! It was a morning full of insightful discussions on key topics shaping Culpeper.
Town Zoning Updates: Andrew Hopewell shared proposed changes to the Town of Culpeper Government zoning and what they mean for our community.
Agriculture Panel, moderated by Nicolle Wootten (Culpeper Young Professionals) – We heard from Susan Gugino (Culpeper County Farm Bureau), Becky Ramsey (Farm Credit), Carl Stafford (Virginia Cooperative Extension), and Kenny Unger (CFC Farm & Home Center) about the challenges and successes farmers are experiencing with new methods and technology.
Sheriff’s Update – Sheriff Chilton provided an update on his first months in office since taking on the role in January 2024. Culpeper County Sheriff’s Office – Timothy W. Chilton
Business Resources Panel, moderated by Ginny Koontz-DeLauder (Freedom Street At Steward Partners) – Rosi Beachy (Central Virginia Small Business Development Center – CV SBDC), Tori Buell (Culpeper Tourism & Town Economic Development Visit Culpeper VA), Jason Ford (Rappahannock Goodwill Virginia Career Works – Piedmont Region), and Winona Pritts (Culpeper Economic Development) shared valuable resources for businesses of all sizes.
If you missed the event or want to revisit the discussions, we’ll share the event video as soon as it becomes available—stay tuned!
A huge thank you to our sponsors for making this event possible! Your support helps bring these important conversations to our community. Economic Sponsors: Culpeper Media Network and UVA Health Culpeper Medical Center Community Sponsors: Bingham & Taylor, Dominion Energy, and I&L’s DJing & Event Production.
Thank you again to our speakers, panelists, and attendees for making this event a success!
March 25, 2025
We’re proud to share that Amy & Sarah had the incredible opportunity to join our Chamber colleagues from across the Commonwealth in Staunton for the 2025 Virginia Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (VACCE) Staff Development Conference. This annual event is a key opportunity for networking and professional growth, equipping chamber professionals with the tools and insights needed to better serve their communities.
The conference featured impactful sessions, including:
Own Your Talents, Transform Your Team
Successful Crisis Initiatives
Non-Dues Revenue and New Trends
Media/PR Training
Team Building for Chambers
Measuring & Communicating Impact: A Data-Driven Approach to Chamber Success
AI Revolution in Chamber Management: Empowering Engagement, Efficiency & Growth
We are grateful for the knowledge and connections from these conferences that we are able to bring back to Culpeper, strengthening our efforts to support and elevate our local business community.
March 26, 2025
While in Staunton for the VACCE Conference, Amy and Sarah took an excursion to visit the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum and the Archive & Research Center. It was a fascinating and educational experience, offering a deeper look into the life and legacy of America’s 28th president. We learned so much about Woodrow Wilson’s impact on business and the nation, including:
Establishing the 8-hour workday for railroad workers with the Adamson Act, laying the foundation for fair labor standards.
Creating the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in 1914 to promote consumer protection and prevent unfair business practices.
Signing the Clayton Antitrust Act, strengthening antitrust laws to prevent monopolies and protect small businesses.
Signing the Federal Reserve Act, which created the modern banking system, stabilizing the economy and ensuring financial security.
Guiding the country through World War I and the Spanish flu pandemic.
Advocating for the 19th Amendment, giving women the right to vote!
An exciting local connection: Dr. Cary T. Grayson, Wilson’s personal physician and trusted advisor, was born right here in Culpeper! He resided in the White house and attended peace talks in Paris with Wilson in 1919. We are grateful for this experience and the chance to explore how Wilson’s policies and leadership shaped the business landscape and the nation we know today.
March 27, 2025
State of the Community Event Recap – Now on YouTube!
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the State of the Community Event! If you missed it, you can now watch the full event on YouTube below!
Town Zoning Updates: Learn about proposed changes to Town of Culpeper zoning and what they mean for our community.
Agriculture Panel: Hear about the challenges and successes local farmers are experiencing with new methods and technology.
Sheriff’s Update: Get insights into Sheriff Chilton’s first months in office and his priorities moving forward.
Business Resources Panel: Discover valuable tools and programs available for businesses of all sizes.
A huge thank you to our sponsors for making this event possible!
Economic Sponsors: Culpeper Media Network and UVA Health Culpeper Medical Center
Community Sponsors: Bingham & Taylor, Dominion Energy, and I&L’s DJing & Event Production
Thank you again to our speakers, panelists, and attendees for making this event a success!
March 27, 2025
Trip Dates: October 1st – 8th, 2025
Experience the Beauty of the French Riviera:
Round-trip airfare
All airline fuel charges and taxes
11 mouthwatering meals
Sightseeing & admission to all activities
Highlights include:
-Breathtaking boat rides along the stunning coast
-A visit to a world-renowned perfume distillery
-Exploring charming villages and iconic landmarks
-Strolling through local markets & embracing the Mediterranean lifestyle
Email amy@culpeperchamber.com to get the details and registration form!
Don’t miss out—spaces are limited! Contact the Chamber office today to secure your spot and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
March 28, 2025
We are excited to introduce Sofia McDaniel, Senior Innovation Policy Analyst with the
Virginia Department of Education – VDOE, as this year’s keynote speaker for Women’s Lift – Promote, Build, Inspire.
Sofia is a proud Virginian who grew up in Prince William County. She holds her Juris Doctorate from Ohio Northern University and a Bachelors in Biology from George Mason University.
As a Senior Innovation Policy Analyst at the Virginia Department of Education, Sofia brings a wealth of experience in education policy, innovation, and leadership. She plays a key role in shaping policies that drive forward-thinking solutions in education, including lab schools and charter schools, and collaborates with leaders across government, higher education, and the K-12 sector. Sofia is also a Fellow with Education Reformers Academy where she joins talented policy leaders from across the nation who feel passionately about ensuring the life changing power of a great education.
With a background in consulting and business development, Sofia has worked with industry partners to optimize solutions and drive meaningful change. Additionally, Sofia did extensive domestic violence prevention work and helped launch the state of Florida’s first ever faith-based initiative to prevent domestic violence.
Beyond her professional work, Sofia is deeply committed to mentoring and empowering young women and children regardless of socio-economic status or ability. Sofia serves as Miss Central Virginia USA and uses her platform to further educational outcomes for all children. Sofia is actively involved with Best Buddies International, where she is the Chair of the Richmond Friendship Walk. Sofia also supports Girls on the Run Richmond, where she is a member of the Impact Advisory Team and coaches an after-school program for elementary aged girls.
March 28, 2025
Building connections and growing businesses!
The Friday Leadshare Group had another great meeting today, featuring an informative presentation from Peak Roofing Contractors, Inc.. These biweekly meetings provide a valuable space for members to share insights, support one another, and strengthen their professional networks.
The Friday Leadshare Group meets on the 2nd and 4th Friday of each month at Pepper’s Grill. If you’re looking for a way to connect with other local professionals and grow your business, reach out to learn more!
