Jeffrey (J.J.) Bonavita has assumed the role of director of institutional research at Virginia Peninsula Community College (VPCC), a position he held as interim director since September 2023. In his interim role, Bonavita led several major initiatives related to VPCC’s effectiveness, initiatives and reaffirmation of accreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. He is also an experienced faculty member, program chair and higher education leader. Bonavita earned a master’s degree in public administration from Old Dominion University in 2022.
Chef’s Market Food Hall & Butcher Shop, a concept by Chef Kenny Sloane of Amaro Italian Bistro, Fin & Tonic, Fin Seafood and Steak & Tonic, has opened at 11800 Merchants Walk #100, in City Center. The food hall features a grilled cheese bar, pizza bar, street food bar, taco bar, brewery, distillery and a cafe. Shops include wine, cheese, charcuterie, baked goods, fresh meats, seafood and butcher. Entertainment includes duckpin bowling and arcades.
Harvey Johnson, partner and CEO of PBMares, LLP, has been recognized as one of Virginia’s most powerful and influential leaders in Virginia Business’s 2024-25 Power List. Johnson was appointed CEO in 2021 when he succeeded CEO and firm co-founder Alan Witt. Johnson, who has spent his entire career with PBMares, was previously a partner in the firm’s cybersecurity practice, which he helped to establish in 2016.
Mayor Phillip Jones has been selected as a member of the prestigious Rodel Fellowship Class of 2025, a program for state and local elected officials from across the country. The fellowship gathers 24 leaders, equally divided between the two major political parties, for a series of seminars focusing on leadership development, ethical governance and collaboration across political divides. The program seeks to cultivate thoughtful dialogue among a distinguished group of diverse political leaders, promoting collaboration across party lines and fostering a strong commitment to democratic principles. Since its inception in 2005, more than 400 leaders have participated in the Rodel Fellowship, many going on to hold significant roles in government, including U.S. senators, governors and vice president of the U.S. The program, under the auspices of the Rodel Institute, aims to strengthen democracy and improve public leadership in the United States.
Vice Mayor Curtis Bethany has been elected to serve on the board of directors of the Virginia Municipal League (VML), an organization dedicated to promoting effective local government throughout the Commonwealth. This appointment underscores Bethany’s commitment to enhancing municipal services and addressing the needs of the community. The VML represents cities, towns and counties throughout Virginia, providing valuable resources, advocacy and education to enhance local governance. As a board member, Bethany will engage in discussions on key issues affecting local governments, including infrastructure, public safety and economic development.
Jerome Fowlkes has been appointed chief impact officer of Langley Federal Credit Union. This newly created position reflects the tremendous contributions Fowlkes has made to the organization and reinforces Langley’s commitment to fostering a thriving internal culture, community engagement and sustainable business partnerships. Fowlkes will provide strategic leadership for key areas central to Langley’s mission and values, including human resources and organizational development, learning and leadership development, inclusion and belonging, foundation and corporate social responsibility, community and affinity group engagement and development of business partnerships.
Timmons Group has a new office location in Tech Center Research Park, Building 2, at 800 Tech Center Parkway, Unit 103. The civil engineering, technology and survey firm selected Tech Center Research Park to better serve its clients and offer updated amenities to employees.
United Way of the Virginia Peninsula recognized 20 participants as winners of the AI Skill-a-Thon, a free 30-day skilling competition that helped local professionals, job seekers, students and employers learn basic knowledge in AI to assist them in their chosen career path. The winners earned professional certificates to demonstrate their AI knowledge and were awarded a total of $10,000. Through this partnership with Microsoft, participants are becoming empowered with necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in a digital age. Winners included Alissa Wilson, Julia Comfort, Tage Counts, first place; Caitlyn Joseph, Nena Hill, Laurie Dickerson, second place; Deya Gayle, Kisa White, Keisha Williams, third place; and Rachel Kuchta, Charone Drew, Linda Tafazoli fourth place.
Top October agents for CENTURY 21 Nachman Realty’s Peninsula office were Chaz Fiscella, top listing agent; Jamie Coldsnow, top selling and closing agent; Dee Karlsson, top producing agent; and Luther Elmore, top referring agent.
Visit Newport News received a Readers’ Choice Award, presented by ConventionSouth magazine. Since the award’s creation in 2001, this is the third time Newport News Tourism has received the honor — in 2017 and in 2022. The Newport News tourism office was among 15 Virginia convention and visitors bureaus nominated by meeting planners. Visit Newport News will be featured as an award recipient in the December 2024 Awards issue of ConventionSouth. Rebecca Cutchins is media relations manager with the Newport News Department of Communications, Tourism Division.
