Two Mathews businesses and one in Gloucester received first-place rankings in a recent magazine promotion.

Virginia Living magazine’s "Best of Virginia 2013" ranked The Inn at Tabbs Creek in Port Haywood, as the "Most Welcoming Bed and Breakfast" in Eastern Virginia, followed by The Inn at Warner Hall, Gloucester.

In Mathews, Bay School’s Fine Art Auction won first place in the category "Most Creative Charitable Event."

In Gloucester, Short Lane Ice Cream was voted first place in the "Best Ice Creamery" category.

Amanda Taylor, vice chairman of the Bay School board, said it was a surprise to learn that the school’s auction was recognized. She said she did not know how the school was selected, but was very proud of the honor.

Kim Williams, who owns the ice cream store with husband Jim, said she also was surprised to learn of the honor. She thinks that the shop’s special recipes and use of fresh fruits and herbs from her family’s farm at Ware Nec...