WELCOME TO THE
SOUTH FAIRFAX
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
About Us
The South Fairfax Chamber of Commerce, a non-profit 501(c) (6) organization, is a community resource for local businesses and non-profits, as well as the residents of Lorton, Mason Neck, Fairfax Station, Occoquan, Burke and Clifton communities. The SFCC is the area's influential business advocate committed to empowering members to succeed by developing an informed, connected business community, growing our social networks to benefit your business and always promoting economic growth in the South Fairfax area.
Whether it is an educational webinar, a networking lunch, or a mix and mingle social, the Chamber is always working to help you promote your business, connect with fellow business owners, broaden your skills in all aspects of running your business. A Chamber membership offers the extra marketing you may not have the budget or time for. Introduce your business to potential customers through chamber-sponsored educational or networking events that draw other business owners as well as the public.
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. These customs and practices have been passed down through generations of service members, shaping the identity and culture of the American military. 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.”
Those first purple hearts went to just a handful of Soldiers and, shortly after the revolution ended, were discontinued and forgotten — until well after World War I, when another military leader, Army Chief of Staff Gen. Charles Summerall, proposed in 1927 that Congress revive the “Badge of Military Merit.” According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs publication “Celebrating America’s Freedoms,” Summerall’s successor, Gen. Douglas MacArthur pushed the idea forward to make the award the medal we know today as The Purple Heart.
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.
Experienced sailors play the roles of King Neptune, Davy Jones, a barber, and a judge. After successfully completing the initiation, pollywogs are welcomed into the ranks of shellbacks, often receiving a certificate to commemorate their crossing.
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."
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.
Thank you to those who stepped up to support this Chamber fundraiser!
Networking at Fire Station 19
Potomac Music was one of several SFCC Members participating in Members' Row
Skeletons & Scratch Off winner, Steve Jordon, Emma Jordon Kidz Fighting Cancer Foundation
Dr. Swathi Reddy, All Smile Orthodontics, Brian Gottlieb, Berkshire Hathaway/PenFed Realty, Dr. Shyaun Rafii, Dynamic Foot & Ankle Center
Trademasters was a popular booth unveiling their new Home Services membership option.
Christine Morin, Chief of Staff Sup. Dan Storck and Terry Head, Compass Coaching
Juan Navarro, The Wine Attic
Member's Row
A Night of Connection at Fire Station 19
The South Fairfax Chamber of Commerce recently gathered for a special evening of networking hosted by the Lorton Volunteer Fire Department (LVFD). Attendees were treated to an exclusive, behind-the-scenes tour of Fire Station 19, offering a fascinating look at the dedication and teamwork that keeps our community safe every day. It was an engaging tour led by members of the LVFD, who shared insights into their daily routines and emergency response operations.
The event brought together business leaders, nonprofit representatives, and community members to strengthen local connections and celebrate the spirit of collaboration that defines South Fairfax.
The Chamber extends its sincere thanks to the Lorton Volunteer Fire Department for their warm hospitality and inspiring tour. Special appreciation goes to The Wine Attic and Juan Navarro for hosting the bar, adding a touch of local flavor to the evening. Adding to the night’s energy, the Chamber’s Member Row showcased a vibrant mix of local businesses and nonprofits, each sharing their services and community contributions.
Participants included:
- AFC Urgent Care Burk
- All Smiles Orthodontic
- Emma Jordon Kidz Fighting Cancer Foundation
- Petite Smiles Dentistry
- Potomac Musi
- Lorton Holiday Extravaganza & Craft Show
- Trademasters Service, Inc.
Events like this embody what the South Fairfax Chamber stands for—connecting members, strengthening local partnerships, and supporting the people and organizations that make our community thrive.
Grand Opening/Ribbon Cutting Package
Foundational Package*
$75 per event
*Included with all Sustaining Memberships
Advance Promotion
o Placement on Chamber Web Calendar
o Social media post
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
o Giant scissors
o Ceremonial ribbon/sashes
o Representation of the SFCC Board
Post-Ceremony Publicity
o Photos posted to SFCC social media
o Photos posted to SFCC website
o Photo in monthly SFCC newsletter
Supreme Package**
$150 per event
**Included with all Premier Memberships
Advance Promotion
o Notice in monthly SFCC newsletter
o Press release
o Local media notification
o E-blast invitation to membership
o Twitter
o Facebook
o Instagram
o LinkedIn
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
o Giant scissors
o Ceremonial ribbon/sashes
o Representation of the SFCC Board
Post-Ceremony Publicity
o Photos posted to SFCC social media
o Photos posted to SFCC website
o Photo in monthly SFCC newsletter
o Blog post on Chamber website
Contact SFCC Executive Director Carla Olivo for more information – AskSFChamber@gmail.com.
Welcome To Our
Newest Members
It is a new day for Legacy/Lifetime Members!
NEW OPTIONS for Legacy/Lifetime SFCC Members
The SFCC is offering Legacy members the opportunity to switch to a new annual Sustaining Membership to help facilitate your virtual success by increasing your marketability and online visibility.
Our Enhanced Marketing will help to promote your business through more digital and virtual channels so you can see significant returns for your business each month.
