DECEMBER 2025 SFCC Newsletter |
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Building a Vibrant, Collaborative Business Community |
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Casey Whitmarsh
SFCC Chair |
| As we close out another year of growth, connection, and community impact, I want to extend my sincere thanks to each of you for your commitment to our Chamber. Your involvement—whether through attending events, volunteering, or supporting fellow members—continues to strengthen our local business community.
As we look ahead to the new year, I encourage you to consider participating in our Chamber fundraisers and sponsorship opportunities. These initiatives provide vital support for our programs and allow us to keep membership dues affordable for everyone. |
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Your involvement—whether big or small—helps us maintain the high-quality events, educational programs, and networking opportunities that our members value.
Together, we can continue building a vibrant, collaborative business community while ensuring that Chamber membership remains accessible. Thank you for your continued partnership, and I look forward to all we’ll accomplish in the year ahead.
Warm wishes for a successful and joyful new year! |
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Socialize, Thrive, Interact and Reconnect |
The South Fairfax community came together at the Laurel Hill Golf Club recently to honor our nation's veterans and active-duty military members as part of the South Fairfax Chamber of Commerce's 5th Annual Salute to Service.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of Challenge Coins to veterans in attendance by General David Rodriguez, U.S. Army Retired.
The United States military has a rich history filled with unique traditions that set it apart from other armed forces worldwide. As part of the Salute to Service and in celebration of the 250th anniversary of three branches of our Armed Forces: the Army, Navy and Marine Corps, special traditions of each service were detailed.
The USMC’s birthday cake-cutting ceremony is important to all Marines, as it is an annual renewal of each Marine’s commitment to the Corps and the Corps’ commitment to our nation’s quest for peace and freedom worldwide. It symbolizes the passing of experience and knowledge between generations. The oldest Marine present at the Chamber event was Lt Col Ken Olivo, born in 1963. As part of the ceremony, Olivo was presented the first piece of cake and then presented the second piece of cake to the youngest Marine present Major Shalin Sood born in 1984.
American Legion Post 162 Commander Chris Warner presented the story of the Purple Heart. Commander in Chief of the Continental Army from 1775 to 1783, George Washington created the Badge of Military Merit, a small, heart-shaped patch made of purple cloth to reward enlisted Soldiers for “instances of unusual gallantry” as well as “extraordinary fidelity and essential service.”
Navy veteran, Eric Bach described the Navy's Crossing the Line Ceremony where when a ship crosses the equator for the first time, the sailors aboard who haven’t crossed the equator (pollywogs) are subjected to various tasks and challenges by those who have (shellbacks). The ceremony builds camaraderie among crew members and marks an important milestone in a sailor’s career.
Another highlight of the evening were presentations by Bob Taradash from Patriots for Disabled Divers and Ed Moore – Founder of Veterans Fishing Adventure. "Having these non-profits represented was really great," said SFCC Chair Casey Whitmarsh. "The South Fairfax Chamber prides itself on being an advocate for local business and a supporter of the community." |
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You are invited to celebrate 20 years of holiday cheer, local creativity, and community traditions at the 20th annual Lorton Holiday Extravaganza on Saturday, December 6 at South County High School, 8501 Silverbrook Rd.
Visitors can explore 180+ booths featuring artisan gifts like handcrafted pottery, body butters, smoked coffee, local honey, gourmet chocolates, crocheted items, woodcrafts, original art, baked goods, and seasonal décor.
Several chamber member businesses and nonprofits are sponsors of this year's event to include top sponsor Trademasters Home Services, American Legion Post 162, Casey Whitmarsh, State Farm agent, All Smiles Orthodontics and Potomac Music.
To mark this milestone year, admission is FREE for all—a special thank-you to South Fairfax for two decades of support. |
Support the SFCC & Increase VISIBILITY for your Business or Nonprofit |
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This is a great way to increase your brand awareness while supporting the Chamber and our local athletes. Email Executive Director Carla Olivo today and reserve your logo space in the upcoming Winter Sports Program for only $125. |
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Dec 6 20th annual Lorton Holiday Extravaganza, 8501 Silverbrook Rd, 9a-3p
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Dec 13/14 Metropolitan School of the Arts presents The Nutcracker, 12p and 5 pm www.metropolitanarts.org
- Dec 25 Christmas Day
- Jan 1 New Year's Day 2026
For more event listings, go to: www.southfairfaxchamber.org. |
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