WHEREAS, The Cheese Shop, a renowned purveyor of fine wines, cheeses, and sandwiches in Williamsburg, celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021; and

WHEREAS, founded by Thomas Power in 1971, the first iteration of The Cheese Shop opened in Warwick Shopping Center in Newport News, followed two years later by a second establishment on Prince George Street in Williamsburg; and

WHEREAS, located in Colonial Williamsburg's Merchants Square since 2003, The Cheese Shop has long delighted locals, college students, and tourists who flock to the eatery for its world-class sandwiches and famous original house dressing; and

WHEREAS, known as a reliable source for rare wines, cheeses, and other specialty items, The Cheese Shop has helped lead a culinary renaissance in Williamsburg over its half-century in business; and

WHEREAS, the Power family's ventures have also included the restaurants The Trellis Bar and Grill and Fat Canary in Williamsburg, which have only added to the reputation and prestige of The Cheese Shop; and

WHEREAS, with a steadfast commitment to giving back to the community who supported him, The Cheese Shop's founder, Thomas Power, was active in various local causes and organizations over his lifetime, including the Williamsburg Farmers Market, which he helped establish, and TowneBank Williamsburg, for which he served on the board of directors; and

WHEREAS, The Cheese Shop has provided employment to hundreds of individuals over the years, many of whom were students at The College of William and Mary at one time; to recognize their years of community service and connection to the institution, Thomas Power and his wife, Mary Ellen, were recipients of the university's Prentis Award in 2017; and

WHEREAS, by cultivating a uniquely satisfying dining and shopping experience, The Cheese Shop has become an iconic destination in Williamsburg and will remain lovingly adored by patrons both near and far for many years to come; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the Senate, the House of Delegates concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend The Cheese Shop on the occasion of its 50th anniversary; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the Power family, owners of The Cheese Shop, as an expression of the General Assembly's admiration for the establishment's contributions to the Commonwealth.