THE ROANOKE REGION OF VIRGINIA

MedCottage interest grows as way to care for elderly

2010-10-04T12:02:00.003-04:00

A Salem company has introduced a new way to care for loved ones – and it’s generating interest from around the world.

N2Care’s MedCottage is a portable, modular medical home designed to make it possible for families to take care of loved ones on their property as an alternative to long-term care facilities.

Shortly after the MedCottage was unveiled in the Roanoke, Virginia Region, the company received national media coverage, leading to thousands of inquiries from people looking for an alternative model for healthcare as 78 million baby boomers prepare for their senior years.

The 12-by-24-foot MedCottage is loaded with technology and amenities for the health, comfort and safety of the elderly or those recovering from illness or injury.

“The MedCottage model for healthcare offers a totally new paradigm,” says the Rev. Kenneth Dupin, founder and CEO of N2Care and the innovator behind the MedCottage. “With a daunting reality looming, we must, as a society, consider every option to take pressure off the system. The MedCottage is such a cost-effective alternative – and baby boomers are ready for new options for aging in place.”

The MedCottage can be purchased or leased and temporarily placed on the caregiving family’s property. Like an RV, it connects to a single-family house's electrical and water supplies.

It’s already authorized for use in Virginia and is designed to comply with local zoning ordinances throughout the nation. Earlier this year, Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell signed into law HB 1307, “Zoning Provisions for Temporary Family Healthcare Structures.”

The Virginia-made MedCottage is equipped with the latest technology to monitor vital signs, filter the air for contaminants and communicate with the outside world via high-tech video and cell phone text technology. Sensors alert caregivers to an occupant's fall, and a computer can remind the occupant to take medications. The technology also provides entertainment, offering a selection of music, reading material and movies.

The first MedCottage is now undergoing real-life testing at Virginia Tech. The company hopes to have the first homes available for sale or lease in early 2011.

Botetourt County a "Hidden Gem"

2010-10-04T12:02:00.001-04:00

Botetourt County places in the top 5 "Hidden-Gem Wine Regions" at number 4.

4. Botetourt County, Virginia
Louis and Clark began their fabled journey in Fincastle, Virginia, the town where you should start your own exploration of the three family-run vineyards of Botetourt County. All three sit in the valley of the Blue Ridge Mountains, boasting spectacular views, close proximity to the scenic drives of the Blue Ridge Parkway, hiking on the Appalachian Trail, and canoeing on the James River. The vineyards of the area produce a variety of wines, ranging from Rieslings to Cabernet Franc.

Roanoke is about 30 minutes to an hour away, depending on which vineyard you visit first. But it's possible to stay right on Fincastle Vineyard and Winery property, which has its own tranquil bed and breakfast. Check out the wooden hiking trails of the 300-acre Blue Ridge Vineyard before packing a lunch and heading for the Virginia Mountain Vineyard s, which welcomes picnickers in its gazebo. If you plan your trip in the fall, stop by Ikenberrry Orchards for a variety of apples, a corn maze, and homemade apple butter and preserves.

5. North Fork, Long Island, New York
4. Botetourt County, Virginia
3. Truro, Cape Cod
2. Bloomington, Indiana
1. Hill Country, Texas

Music reaching high notes in Roanoke, Virginia Region

2010-10-04T12:01:00.001-04:00

If you listen closely, you can often hear echoes in the Blue Ridge Mountains surrounding the Roanoke, Virginia, Region.

Sure, you’ll hear birds chatter, hikers murmur or mountain bikes clatter. But more and more you’ll hear music.

Bluegrass. Classical. Country. Rock. Gospel. Jazz. Blues. Funk. Hip-hop – you name it. Whatever your taste, we’ve got it here.

A combination of new venues, diverse demographics, affordable entertainment, community leadership and proximity to music roots are all reasons why the Roanoke Region is drawing artists from throughout the nation – and growing throngs of fans.

“Music lovers in Roanoke are creating a culture that transcends this region,” explains Robyn Schon, assistant general manager of the Roanoke Civic Center, which in the past few months has hosted diverse artists ranging from Celtic Woman to Keith Urban to ZZ Top and Dokken.

“Bands and artists of every genre are surfacing in this community; music venues are taking greater financial risks by booking more eclectic performers; and the demographics in this area are diverse enough to ensure that every genre of music will have a decent audience,” Schon says. “As a result, the region is being recognized for the artistry and diversity of the music available here.”

And the music isn’t just in large venues. There’s music on mountains, at wineries, at festivals, in clubs and restaurants, in concert halls seating a few dozen, even on top of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

“Live music is always central to the perception of whether a community has a healthy cultural scene or not,” Schon says. “I think the fact that people are talking more about the increased number of concerts, the variety of music venues hosting good music, and the diversity of music genres makes our music scene thrive.”

A big factor, local music experts say, is the rise of a creative community dedicated to putting the region on the music map. Developer Ed Walker built the Kirk Avenue Music Hall, a downtown venue with a no-nonsense interior that’s attracting both up-and-comers and industry veterans.

Music promoter Gary Jackson, who brings in acts for Kirk Avenue Music Hall, credits live-music lovers, transplants like himself and long-time residents such as Walker, restaurant owner Jason Martin and Dylan Locke, the artistic director at Jefferson Center who owns DLP Concerts with his wife, Heather Krantz.

“There are many who are very engaged in bringing talent to the region,” Jackson says.

Through Jackson’s nationwide connections, he’s moved music from beyond the walls and into the community. The initial Down by Downtown music festival attracted thousands to Roanoke for an eclectic mix of rock, pop, jazz, classical, hip-hop, Americana and more throughout the city, culminating in an outdoor riverside concert.

“This one could be huge when it’s all said and done,” Jackson says.

Meanwhile, the Jefferson Center continues to attract sold-out shows. The building also hosts the Music Lab, a recording studio for budding musicians.

And even long-time organizations such as the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra are mixing it up. The RSO is bringing in Liza Minelli, Blake Shelton and Boz Skaggs, among others, to introduce symphony to different audiences.

“We believe strongly that the greater role of a symphony orchestra in any community is to serve the community with great live performances,” says Beth Pline, executive director. “Our versatility, and the caliber of our musicians and programming, means we can bring a unique and powerful experience to music lovers of many kinds. … People need these experiences -- they want and need live music!"

Then there’s the influence of the Crooked Road, Virginia's Heritage Music Trail, which comes through the Franklin County area of the region.

“The Crooked Road is a big reason that the Roanoke Region is being put on the map,” Schon says. “Bluegrass, folk, Americana -- those are the roots of this region. It's no longer uncool to be a young person and listen to bluegrass.”
The Crooked Road was established in 2004 to promote tourism and economic development by celebrating Southwest Virginia's bluegrass and old-time mountain music traditions. The winding, 250-mile corridor covers 10 counties and three cities. Its new executive director, Jack Hinshelwood, is an award-winning fiddler from the greater Roanoke area.
The recent high notes are prompting local music supporters to think big. Is the region on the cusp of a true music destination?

“Yes,” promoter Jackson says emphatically. “I see a vibrant music scene that’s alive with people and great music all year round.”

The region promotes activities at its mountains and rivers

2010-10-04T12:00:00.002-04:00

via virginiabusiness.com

Call him Roanoke’s Outdoor Man. Pete Eshelman spends his days promoting events that capitalize on the natural strengths of this Blue Ridge Mountain city. And why not? There are rivers to raft, trails to bike, mountains to climb, and caves to spelunk. And all that activity fits nicely with some of the most powerful drivers of the region’s economy — health care and education.

“Everyone agrees that’s part of what makes this area so great,” says Eshelman, director of outdoor branding for the Roanoke Regional Partnership. “But it was a story that wasn’t being told.”

Roanoke has spent much of its history trying to be like someplace else — Charlotte, Richmond or almost any other place that people won’t call a gritty railroad town. Maybe that phase of the city’s life is over. “I think we seem to be more comfortable with ourselves than we were 25 years ago,” says former Roanoke County administrator Elmer Hodges.

The city’s emerging image as an outdoor mecca has encouraged the growth of number of businesses catering to adventuresome tourists, such as outfitters and bicycle shops. The buzz about the region’s quality of life also is helping it attract and retain highly trained professionals.

Eshelman’s job is to tell Roanoke’s new story. He organizes and promotes events such as the Blue Ridge Marathon. In April the race drew 942 runners and had an estimated economic impact of nearly $350,000 (in spending on hotel rooms, meals, gasoline, etc.). Next year, Eshelman says, “We’re actually adding some elevation to it. We’re actually billing it as America’s toughest road marathon.”

Eshelman also organized the Gear Junkie Treasure hunt, which brought 300 people from 15 states to Virginia’s Explore Park in July to traipse around the woods with compasses, maps and GPS devices trying to win their share of $40,000 worth of gear.

As another facet of his job, Eshelman tends to a website, roanokeoutside.com. It provides maps of 75 trails and information about caves, rivers, museums, birding, disc golf, wineries, farmers’ markets and other attractions.

This fall, Roanoke Outside plans to host an adventure tourism entrepreneur workshop. Shawn Hash probably could teach the course. Two decades ago, Hash and his brother, Tyrell, started an adventure tourism business, Tangent Outfitters. “We had a Toyota truck, which we still have, and two canoes and four mountain bikes,” Shawn Hash says.

This has been a growth year for... Read the rest of the story here>>>

Magazine lauds Novozymes as a great workplace

2010-10-04T12:00:00.001-04:00

via roanoke.com

They call them "Zymers" and say it's great to be one.

Denmark-based biotech firm Novozymes and subsidiary Novozymes North America notched high marks recently on two separate ranking gauges.

Novozymes operates Novozymes Biologicals, a wholly owned subsidiary with facilities in Roanoke County and in Salem.

The rankings seemingly portray Novozymes as a corporation that values both the company's employees and the principles of sustainability.

Entrepreneur Magazine published this week a list of companies selected by the Great Place to Work Institute as, well, great places to work.

Novozymes North America ranked 17th on the list of medium-sized companies.

The accompanying blurb reports: "Employees are called 'Zymers' and one of [the company's] foundational principles is to 'Make it Great to Be A Zymer.' "

Zymer perks can range from bonuses to free snacks, from comparatively generous health insurance coverage to massage. The company encourages employees to volunteer in the community.

Novozymes Biologicals has a total of about 140 workers in Roanoke County and Salem.

In addition, parent Novozymes harvested corporate recognition again this year from the Dow Jones Sustainability Index as the biotechnology sector's "sustainability leader." Novozymes describes itself as "the world leader in bioinnovation" whose core business focuses on industrial enzymes, microorganisms and biopharmaceutical ingredients.

Novozymes' regional operation produces microbial-based products that take on household, industrial, and agricultural problems with, the company says, environmentally safe technology. Applications include odor control, drain line and septic tank maintenance, grease removal, carpet cleaning and wastewater treatment.

Each year, the Dow Jones Sustainability Index reportedly evaluates the world's 2,500 largest companies on more than 20 indicators, such as corporate governance and eco-efficiency.

It is said to highlight "the companies best prepared to seize the opportunities and manage the risks associated with economic, environmental and social developments."

And what is "eco-efficiency?"

One definition suggests it refers to a "management philosophy that aims at minimizing ecological damage while maximizing efficiency of the firm's production processes."

The local Novozymes operation has been especially supportive of the Roanoke River Greenway network, donating money and time. It also agreed to support a riverfront project after pleading guilty in 2008 to dumping wastes that ended up in Mason Creek.

First train travels the Heartland Corridor

2010-10-04T11:59:00.002-04:00

RADFORD -- After three years of engineering and work, the first train to travel the Heartland Corridor through Southwest Virginia stopped shortly before noon today for a celebration and ribbon-cutting.

The first train to ride the route left the Port of Hampton Roads on its way to Columbus, Ohio, and Chicago with both domestic and imported goods.

At Radford, the 140-box train parked outside a Norfolk Southern Corp. celebration attended by dozens of transportation, state and railroad officials.

The Heartland Corridor project is an effort to increase intermodal freight capacity by raising clearances in 28 tunnels on a NS line. The first phase of the tunnel work began in October 2007. Using the corridor, trains will be able to shave off about 200 miles and up to a day’s transit time between the East Coast and the Midwest. Currently, double-stack trains must take routes by way of Harrisburg, Pa., or Knoxville, Tenn.

Building on biosciences

2010-10-04T11:59:00.001-04:00

via roanoke.com

Biomedical and biotechnical jobs led the region in growth last year, outpacing all other sectors.

The trend for growth is expected to continue, according to an analysis by the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission.

"The industry is fast becoming a strong and regionally significant engine for growth and prosperity," the report said.

Expanding on the region's growth in biosciences is partly tied to the maturation of the Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute, which officially opened Wednesday with little fanfare.

The study showed that from 2006 to 2009, the region's overall rate of employment decreased 5 percent. However, employment in the biomedical and biotechnical sector increased nearly 8.9 percent during the same time.

"It's been quite dramatic in terms of the data," said John Hull, regional economic development manager for the commission and the person responsible for analyzing the trends for the report. "Things are happening here that aren't happening elsewhere."

Even as the sector has been identified as a significant area of economic growth potential nationally, the region's growth outpaced the nation's. Nationally, employment between 2006 and 2009 remained nearly stagnant, decreasing 0.29 percent, according to the report.

Building on the region's development in the biosciences means continuing to focus attention on things such as the new research institute, Hull said.

But for some in the community, the institute has seemingly taken a back seat to its partner the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, which began classes in August.

"We've heard a lot of talk about the medical school, but we hadn't heard a lot of people talking about the research institute," said Cory Donovan, executive director of the NewVa Corridor Technology Council. "A lot of people didn't know anything about it."

Donovan and other business leaders are looking to change the relative low profile of the institute, because they are convinced the institute is a key to the cultivating the region's economic growth in biomedicine, biotechnology and health care.

"People are just realizing that this is a huge opportunity and this is where a lot of the growth and job opportunities and economic development is going to come from," Donovan said.

In July, Donovan sought to galvanize the technology community about the potential by giving the podium to the research institute's executive director during the NCTC's monthly breakfast gathering.

It was a record crowd of nearly 150 people. After the presentation the hotel conference room was buzzing.

Michael Friedlander had been in his position as executive director of the institute for only six weeks and yet he had sparked an enthusiasm among the crowd that native business executives have long tried to elicit.

"We just got a glimpse of the future of Roanoke, and it's exciting," said Mary Miller, president of Blacksburg-based Interactive Design and Development Inc.

Friedlander ended his talk pleading for community support.

"We need community involvement," he said. "We can't do this in isolation."

An immediate response came in the form of a line as attendees with business cards in hand waited to speak to him.

Miller, who is also president of the NCTC board, said the institute allows the region to import an intelligence base that can help to stimulate more work force opportunities.

Read the rest of the story here>>>

"A Moving Film" about the Roanoke and New River Valleys of Virginia

2010-10-04T11:56:00.000-04:00

Dabney S. Lancaster Community College Launches Wind Energy Program

2010-10-04T11:55:00.001-04:00

Trinity Packaging to Expand and Add Jobs in Franklin County/Rocky Mount

2010-10-04T11:53:00.003-04:00

ROCKY MOUNT, Va. (August 17, 2010) – Trinity Packaging Corporation, a manufacturer of food service and industrial plastic bag products, today announced that it will make a multi-million dollar investment in an additional facility in Rocky Mount that will create 25 new jobs over the next 36 months and, more importantly, retain 75 existing full-time positions.

The company has purchased the former Erath Veneer building, which is adjacent to the facility Trinity has operated since 2002 in the Franklin County-Rocky Mount Industrial Park. The company’s investment will include the building purchase, new equipment and expanded infrastructure.

Headquartered in Armonk, New York, Trinity Packaging was founded in 1917 as Trinity Bag and Paper Company. In 1979, Trinity entered into the plastics market and throughout the 1990s expanded its plastics product offerings to include retail store bags, mailing envelopes, food service bags and lawn and garden bags. Trinity is now widely considered a leader in innovation and plastic products for the entire North American market. Trinity also operates plants in Lewistown, Pennsylvania and Pueblo, Colorado. Virginia successfully competed against Tennessee, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Utah, and Wisconsin for this expansion.

"Our people are our greatest asset and the work ethic of people in the Rocky Mount area is outstanding" said Dan Mills Trinity V.P. of Operations. "We were very pleased with the responsiveness of officials from Franklin County, the Town of Rocky Mount, the Roanoke Regional Partnership and the Commonwealth of Virginia as they worked to help us make the expansion happen here."

“Trinity Packaging’s success with its Rocky Mount facility helped drive the decision to expand here,” said Charles Wagner, chairman of the Franklin County Board of Supervisors. “In these tough economic times, adding jobs has never been more important. But Trinity Packaging’s decision is also a testament to the excellent business climate in Franklin County and the Commonwealth.”

“It’s always gratifying when a local company expands in place,” said Beth Doughty, executive director. “It proves what we always say about the region as a great place to do business and live.”

“The Town of Rocky Mount is committed to working with our existing businesses to help them expand,” said Mayor Steve Angle. “We are pleased that Trinity has put an idle building back into service, demonstrating what we can do with the private sector when we partner to develop employment opportunities.”

The expansion will allow Trinity Packaging to increase the capacity of its Rocky Mount plant by hiring additional production workers for its printing and extrusion processes, as well as expanding space for new equipment, raw materials and storage. The company will begin hiring later this year and will work through the Virginia Employment Commission.

The company was aided in its decision by Franklin County, the Town of Rocky Mount, the Roanoke Regional Partnership, Virginia Economic Development Partnership, and Virginia Department of Business Assistance. The company will benefit from a state and local incentive package, which includes a $100,000 Governor’s Opportunity Fund grant and $100,000 in Tobacco Region Opportunity Funds from the Virginia Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission, in addition to local government grants, training funds from the Virginia Jobs Investment Program, and rail access funds from the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation. David Cundiff, member of the Virginia Tobacco Commission, commented that, “It is a great honor to provide the citizens of Franklin County with the much needed funding to create and to sustain jobs in the county.”

The Roanoke Regional Partnership markets Franklin County along with Alleghany, Botetourt, and Roanoke Counties, Roanoke, Salem, and Vinton to new and expanding industry. Since 1983, the Partnership has assisted expansions and locations representing $1.3 billion in new investment and nearly 14,000 direct new jobs in the region.

###

Fitch Affirms Botetourt's AA+ Rating

2010-10-04T11:53:00.001-04:00

Fincastle, VA – Despite the current economic environment and the loss of the JTEKT auto assembly manufacturer, Botetourt County continues to maintain high financial ratings due to prudent financial management. The Fitch Ratings organization cited the following in support of its most recent AA+ rating of Botetourt county bonds:

robust reserve levels
strong commitment to pay-as-you-go capital financing
low overall indebtedness
above average amortization

Other factors that contributed to the rating rationale included: below average unemployment rates and above average wealth levels relative to the state and to the nation. The Fitch ratings also cited continued stability in the county’s economic base, and the maintenance of sound fund balance levels and balanced operations.

County Finance Director, Tony Zerrilla, explains that “the County has been able to withstand the current economic pressures by employing a proper blend of debt service and pay-as-you-go financings in combination with a high level of scrutiny regarding operational expenditures.” He also noted that “the County and Schools management staff contributed to the effort by applying preventative cost measures in order to contend with stagnant local revenues and revenue reductions from the State in FY10.”

The raters observed that “Botetourt’s financial position is strong.” To County administrators, the rating confirms that Botetourt County is well positioned to meet the fiscal challenges in upcoming years.

# # #

Good news about housing in the Roanoke, Virginia area

2010-05-24T12:20:00.001-04:00

Foreclosure activity in the Roanoke, Virginia MSA is down from a year ago and home sales and prices are up.

Last month saw foreclosure filings (default notices, scheduled auctions and bank repossessions) on 166 properties in the Roanoke MSA, according to RealtyTrac. That’s a 24.5 percent drop from April 2009. By contrast, foreclosure filings rose 12.9 percent statewide over the same period.

April also saw a 14.3% rise in the number of homes sold from both March 2010 and April 2009 and a 3.1% jump in the average home price over the year. Last month’s average price, $182,471, represents the second month in a row for a home price increase, according to the Roanoke Valley Association of REALTORS. The number of homes sold (328 in April) has risen every month this year and is up 89.6 percent from January.

Roanoke, Virginia Region ranks above average in per-household retail sales

2010-05-24T12:19:00.004-04:00

Some call it shopping. We like to think of it as retail therapy.

The Roanoke Region’s retail scene has remained resilient even as other areas held on to their pocketbooks during the recession, mirroring positive economic trends for the region. Consider:

Per-household retail sales in the Roanoke MSA is $44,920 – 12 percent above the U.S. average of $39,837.
Per-household retail sales ranked No. 93 of U.S. metro areas in 2009 – up 52 spots from 2008.
Median household income within an hour’s drive is projected to grow at a faster rate than Virginia and the United States from 2000 to 2014, according to ESRI, a provider of geographic software and data.

The region’s retail options range from upscale boutiques to down-home shops, and popular national-brand stores to the oldest continuously operating farmer’s market in Virginia.

Thriving retail is a reflection of the region’s economic health.

Roanoke jumped 40 places to No. 39 in the annual Forbes.com 200 Best Places for Business and Careers. Forbes uses cost of doing business, projected job growth and educational attainment to determine the areas with the most economic opportunity.

And the Roanoke Region rose 42 positions to No. 126 of the 200 largest U.S. metro areas in a leading index of economic growth, the 2009 Milken Institute/Greenstreet Real Estate Partners Best-Performing Cities Index. The Milken ranking showed the Roanoke Region was the highest-ranking of Virginia’s major metropolitan areas for high-tech GDP growth from 2007-08.

Roanoke, Virginia Area Attracts College Students

2010-05-24T12:19:00.003-04:00

What region has the most undergraduate college students per capita?

The Research Triangle? Boston-Cambridge? Austin? San Francisco Bay?

Try again.

Within an hour’s drive of the Roanoke, Virginia region are nearly 90,000 undergraduate students at 21 institutions of higher learning, from renowned liberal arts colleges to Virginia Tech, the state’s largest research university.

With a total population an hour in any direction from downtown Roanoke of more than 833,000, that means a per-capital undergraduate college student ratio of 0.108.

By comparison, the San Francisco Bay comes in at 0.060, with the Research Triangle at 0.057 and Boston-Cambridge and Austin tied at 0.049 (see box below).

The Roanoke region is surrounded by some of Virginia’s, and the nation’s, most recognized colleges and universities, including two law schools, a school of osteopathic medicine and a new medical school. While many people from the region choose the local colleges and universities for higher education, these institutions also attract diverse student populations from around the United States and the world.

When they’re here, college students enjoy some of the benefits that attract businesses and visitors to the Roanoke region – including easy access to the outdoors, a vibrant arts scene and sporting events.

Region	2009 Population Estimate	Number of Undergrads	Number Per Capita
Greater Roanoke Region	833,387	89,873	0.108
San Francisco-Oakland	4,302,282	259,045	0.060
Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill	1,589,073	90,278	0.057
Greensboro-High Point-Winston-Salem	1,185,589	66,240	0.056
Austin	1,659,847	82,345	0.049
Boston-Cambridge	4,495,827	223,986	0.049
Richmond	1,230,605	57,425	0.047

In addition to Virginia Tech, the greater region’s colleges include:
Central Virginia Community College
Dabney S. Lancaster Community College
Edward Via Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Ferrum College
Hollins University
Jefferson College of Health Sciences
Liberty University
Lynchburg College
National College
New River Community College
Patrick Henry Community College
Radford University
Randolph College
Roanoke College
Skyline College
Southern Virginia University
Virginia Military Institute
Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine
Virginia Western Community College
Washington & Lee University

Roanoke, Virginia Area Cited As Perfect Place to Retire

2010-05-24T12:19:00.001-04:00

The Roanoke, Virginia area is featured in the March/April 2010 issue of Where to Retire. Themagazine cites the low-key lifestyle, energetic downtown, and outdoor recreation as reasons active retirees find the Roanoke area the right fit when looking for a retirement destination.

The article covers Smith Mountain Lake, Salem, and downtown Roanoke as appealing places to live. Roanoke’s strong cultural assets such as the Taubman Museum, Jefferson Center, Center in the Square, Art by Night, Opera Roanoke, and Roanoke Symphony Orchestra are all mentioned in the six-page article. The magazine cites the Roanoke area’s terrific outdoor recreational opportunities on water and dry land in places such as the lake, Blue Ridge Parkway, Carvin’s Cove, Appalachian Trail, and the 22 miles of Roanoke Greenways.

Diana Christopulos and Mark McClain, moved from Dallas in search of a retirement town that met their list of criteria. “We wanted four seasons equally distributed, a college or university for the cultural aspects they bring to a town, and good medical care,” said Diana. “Many are very pleasantly surprised at the quality of life here”

To check out more from around the area Click Here>>>

Find more outdoor amenities here>>> www.RoanokeOutside.com

Roanoke MSA Unemployment Rate Drops in March

2010-05-24T12:18:00.003-04:00

The Roanoke MSA’s unemployment rate dropped from 8.4 percent in February to 8.2 percent in March – the first such drop since November 2009.

Our unemployment rate tracked with the state (7.6 percent) and national (10.2 percent) rates, which also dropped by two-tenths of a percentage point from February to March. The Charlottesville, Virginia Beach and Harrisonburg MSAs show lower unemployment rates than Roanoke, as does the Washington, DC metro area. While Lynchburg and Richmond saw a two-tenths of a percent drop, their rate is higher than Roanoke’s at 8.4 percent. The Blacksburg MSA’s unemployment rate rose from 9.1 percent to 9.5 percent.

The region continues to have a lower unemployment rate than many communities in the Southeast.

Raleigh, NC 8.9
Asheville, NC 9.4
Chattanooga, TN 9.5
Charleston, SC 9.8
Winston-Sale, NC 10.1
Atlanta 10.4
Greenville, SC 10.4
Greensboro, NC 11.5
Charlotte, NC 11.9

Roanoke Region Prepares for Bike Month

2010-05-24T12:18:00.001-04:00

Roanoke, Va., April 2010- RIDE Solutions and its partners are exited to launch Bike Month with three events to get your bike ready to ride and your family on the road:

Bike Ready, Sunday, May 2nd from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. At Virginia Western Community College. Bike technicians from Cyclo-Ward Bicycle Repair and Bike Barn will offer safety checks and basic bicycle tune ups, all for free. Sharebike will offer a bicycle recycling service, where bicycles which are beyond repair may be offered as a tax-deductable donation. Sharebike will strip the bikes for usable parts and make sure the rest is recycled. Instructors from Wilderness Adventure will be on hand for riding and safety lessons. Sponsored by RIDE Solutions and Virginia Western Community College.

Mayor’s Bike Ride, Saturday, May at 10:00 a.m. Starting from Roanoke Parks and Recreation, 210 Reserve Ave. Join Mayor David Bowers on a 2.5 mile family ride along the Roanoke River Greenway to Downtown Roanoke, where riders can enjoy the Strawberry Festival and Chili Cook-off. The Blue Ridge Bicycle Club will also offer their annual Bicycle Friendly awards. Sponsored by the Blue Ridge Bicycle Club.

Visit www.bikeroanoke.com/events for more information on these and other events.

The Bike Month mission is to bring attention to both the opportunities and challenges of bicycling as recreation and transportation in the Roanoke Valley by creating events that involve all interest, skill, and age level of cyclists. To support the region’s move towards certification under the League of American Bicyclist’s Bicycle Friendly Community Designation, events are aligned with the six E’s of Bicycle Friendly Communities: Education, Encouragement, Enforcement, Engineering, Evaluation, and Equity.

Medical Offices Among Amenities of New Community

2010-05-24T12:17:00.000-04:00

It’s the Roanoke, Virginia Region’s first traditional neighborhood development – shops, restaurants and offices within walking distance of newly built green homes blending the ambiance of yesteryear with today’s technology.

Daleville Town Center, under construction in Botetourt County, is now adding medical offices to the mix -- a nearly 20,000-square-foot building for an outpatient imaging center and adjacent physician offices affiliated with HCA Virginia Health System’s Lewis-Gale Medical Center.

The first residents arrive this spring at the 117-acre Daleville Town Center. At its focal point is a town square with retailers, banks, entertainment and more.

Daleville is an example of the Roanoke Region’s many housing choices [http://www.roanoke.org/housingchoices] – from metropolitan living to suburban neighborhoods, lakeside homes and rural farms.

At Daleville, some 300 single-family homes and town homes are planned in neighborhood blocks over the next 10 years. They are being constructed under EarthCraft, a green-building program leading to healthier, more comfortable homes that reduce utility and water consumption and enhance indoor air quality.

This eco-friendly community will feature tree-lined streets, alleyways and
pedestrian-friendly sidewalks. Everything will be within walking distance. Abundant open space, greenways and walking trails will encourage outdoor activity.

Traditional neighborhood development is a form of master planning that melds the architectural heritage of the past with high-tech amenities to create communities reminiscent of early American towns. Daleville Town Center, developed by Fralin & Waldro n, offers five architectural styles with historically accurate details.

Plus something historic homes didn’t have – fiber-optic cable.

A Look Behind the Roanoke Region’s Foreclosure Numbers

2010-04-23T09:15:00.003-04:00

The news came out last week with great fanfare: foreclosure activity in the Roanoke, Virginia region is up. Yes it is. Foreclosures increased at the national and state lev
els and in many communities in the southeastern United States.

And, though higher than in February, the March numbers are lower than many other communities. There were 147 foreclosure filings in the Roanoke MSA in March, up 31.2 percent from 112 in February. The percentage increase is below the state average of 34.5 percent.

Activity is up in the first quarter of 2010 17.3% compared to the same period last year. Roanoke Region fares better than other communities with which we often compete in the quarter-to-quarter comparison.

VA Tech’s College of Engineering Ranked 25th U.S. News and World Reports

2010-04-23T09:13:00.001-04:00

Virginia Tech’s College of Engineering jumped two spots to crack the Top 25 in U.S. News & World Report’s America’s Best Graduate Schools 2011 survey. It was tied with engineering schools at Johns Hopkins University and The Ohio State University and was the highest ranked engineering school in Virginia.

Other high rankings for Virginia Tech in the survey include: the College of Science’s psychology department, ranked 33^rd among clinical psychology programs; the Career and Technical Education graduate program of the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences School of Education, tied for 4^th; the public affairs program of the School of Public and International Affairs, tied for 27^th, and the Pamplin College of Business, 41st among the nation’s best part-time MBA Schools.

Roanoke, Virginia Region Climbs 40 Spots on Forbes’ List of Best Places for Business and Careers

2010-04-23T09:12:00.002-04:00

Roanoke (39^th) is one of four Virginia metro areas in the top 50 among Forbes.com’s 200 Best Places for Business and Careers, along with Lynchburg (28^th), Virginia Beach (45^th) and Richmond (50^th).

Roanoke jumped 40 places from the 2009 list. Forbes uses cost of doing business, projected job growth and educational attainment to determine the areas with the most economic opportunity. This is the 12^th annual list.

“Roanoke continues to make progress economically, particularly in a climate where so many metros are losing ground,” said Beth Doughty, executive director of the Roanoke Regional Partnership. “The Forbes.com ranking is just one more example of Roanoke attracting the attention it deserves.”

Roanoke ranked 61^st for cost of doing business, based on cost of labor, energy, taxes and office space; 90^th for projected job growth, and 140^th for educational attainment.

Des Moines, IA placed first. Merced, CA is 200^th.

Read the whole article Here>>>

Roanoke, Virginia Region adding LEED-certified buildings

2010-04-23T09:12:00.001-04:00

Green construction continues to gain momentum in the Roanoke, Virginia, region. A variety of new and renovated properties now boast LEED certification for incorporating features that reduce their environmental impact.

LEED is the rating system of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), which sets national standards for excellence in green construction.

The latest company in the region to achieve the recognition is highway-repair contractor Lanford Brothers, which achieved silver LEED certification for its 8,800-square-foot facility in Botetourt County. Its headquarters features a roof with plants, natural light, low-water fixtures, recycled steel and other energy- and money-saving examples.

For instance, 418 tons of existing asphalt were removed, recycled and reinstalled in place, without leaving the site. This reduced landfill waste and transport emissions and saved costs by reusing existing material.

The Lanford Brothers building joins three properties in the City of Roanoke that have achieved LEED designation: the Claude Moore Education Complex (gold), Williamson Road Fire Station (gold) and State and City Building renovations (certified).

In addition, eight other projects in the region have expressed an interest in pursuing LEED certification, including the renovation of downtown Roanoke’s City Market Building, the new Green Ridge Recreation Center in Roanoke County and Carilion Clinic’s new outpatient clinic in Roanoke.

Taliaferro Complex Impacts Region in 2009

2010-04-13T09:17:00.001-04:00

For more than 40 years the Salem Civic Center has been Southwest Virginia’s Sports and Entertainment Mecca, so it shouldn’t be too surprising that in 2009, the Taliaferro Complex continued to be a hot ticket for stimulating the local economy.

Nearly one million people attended events at the Salem Civic Center, Salem Stadium and Salem Memorial Ballpark-Lewis Gale Field in 2009 and those patrons helped the complex generate an economic impact to the Greater Roanoke Valley of more than $59 million.

“In spite of the slow economy nationwide, the Salem Civic Center has been able to host more events than facilities that are comparable to our size in the southeast,” says Carey Harveycutter, Salem’s Director of Civic Facilities. “We actually had several events exceed expectations, so I’m pleased we were able to overcome both the economy and the weather.”

Promoters are more selective than ever when times are tough and Salem was able to attract three successful concerts based largely on the Civic Center’s experienced staff its proven track record.

“The Zac Brown Band, Jason Aldean and The Old Crow Medicine Show were all good fits for us, but we got them because of our longstanding relationship with the promoters and our staff’s ability to stretch an envelope to ensure a successful show,” says Harveycutter.

Events like these concerts or larger scale productions like the Salem Fair, the NCAA Championships and the Roanoke Valley Horse Show also generated indirect spending that was felt far beyond the box office.

“When the Civic Center has concerts and other large events during the work week we ramp up our staff level to equal that of a weekend night because we know we will be busy both before and after the event,” says Mac and Bob’s President Bob Rotanz. “With the recent NCAA Basketball championship and teams from softball over at the Moyer Complex coming in on that same weekend, our sales increased $5000 on Friday alone.”

Numbers were up on several fronts including attendance for the Salem Fair. In 2009, nearly 300,000 folks toured the fair’s 14-acre midway at some point during its 11-day run. That turned out to be an increase of 10 percent, despite 2 nights of rainy weather.

“It’s difficult in a down economic time to get programs like the Salem Fair that do so well,” says Harveycutter. “ODAC basketball and VHSL State wrestling aren’t huge moneymakers, but they are good for the community.”

“The Civic Center is one of the top producers of business for us and we recently enjoyed a 20 percent increase during the recent NCAA Division III and ODAC Basketball Championships,” says Blaine Shively, the General Manager of the Hampton Inn in Salem. “The Civic Center sponsored concerts, business meetings, horse show and Stagg Bowl provides the area with a much needed infusion of revenues from visitors throughout the year.”

Outside Magazine Names Local Outfitter Best

2010-04-13T09:16:00.002-04:00

ROANOKE, Va. (April 6, 2010) – Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing near Roanoke has been named to Outside magazine’s third annual “Best Places to Work” list. Wilderness Adventure was ranked No. 25 of 50 selected companies. The full list and related story will be published in the May issue of Outside magazine, available on newsstands April 13.

Outside’s “Best Places to Work” list was compiled with the help of the Outdoor Industry Association and Best Companies Group. The year-long selection process began with an outreach effort that identified a wide range of non-profit and for-profit organizations with at least 15 employees working in the United States. Participating companies were then sent confidential employee-satisfaction surveys and employer-questionnaires to collect information about benefits, compensation, policies, job satisfaction, environmental initiatives, and community outreach programs. All of the results were analyzed by Best Companies Group experts, who selected the 50 companies that strive to enhance their employees’ enjoyment of active endeavors, and environmental and social involvement.

“It’s gratifying to see a national magazine recognize our devotion to our loyal, hard-working and hard-playing staff, “said Gene Nervo, founder and president of Wilderness Adventure. “We would be nothing without our staff, and that’s why we provide a workplace that is rewarding, challenging and fun.”

Among the perks: meals, personal cabin, flexible work schedule, staff outings, ongoing training and use of any outdoor equipment, including gear discounts for new equipment. There’s also a “staff happiness fund” to provide fun events and activities for the team. “Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing employs people with a high standard of moral character and a desire to teach in a wilderness setting,” Nervo says. “This is a special group of employees with a passion for the outdoors.”

Julia Bradford, group program director, credits Nervo for making it such a great place to work. “Colonel Nervo is an amazing man who has always put the needs of his employees above the needs of himself and even sometimes the company,” Bradford says. “He is loved and respected by all his staff.”

“These 50 companies come from a vast array of industries but they're all following the same enlightened path,” said Michael Roberts, Executive Editor of Outside. “They’re successful businesses in a challenging economy precisely because they support a proper work-life balance. They know that benefits like on-site gyms and fitness classes, reimbursements for ski passes and sports racing fees, and support for community service efforts during work hours make their employees happier and thus more productive.”

Salem Working To Make Greenway Impact-Neutral to the Roanoke River

2010-04-13T09:16:00.001-04:00

In August 2009, as part of its commitment to the environment, Salem pledged to offset any loss of natural riparian areas along the river due to construction of the Roanoke River Greenway.

Now that the greenway is in place, fulfilling that goal has become a priority for the city. This weekend, volunteers from all around Salem, representing a wide variety of organizations and age groups, will assist city staff members by planting 205 seedlings along the trail.

The volunteer groups include: The Salem Garden Club, The Salem Rotary Club, Salem High School, Roanoke College Earthbound, Roanoke Tree Stewards, Novozymes Biologicals and the Virginia Department of Forestry.

At maturity, this new area will offset any vegetation that was removed during the construction process, making building the greenway as impact-neutral to the river, as possible.

“The Roanoke River is a great natural resource for all of us, and the ever-expanding greenway is allowing more and more people to enjoy this treasure, “ says Salem Mayor Randy Foley “By planting these trees, we’re minimizing any impact the greenway construction may have had on the river’s eco-system.”

The tree planting ceremony will be held on the greenway, near the intersection of Orchard Dr. and East Riverside Dr. It will begin at 9:45 a.m. with comments by the Mayor. Last Saturday, volunteers installed plants along the riverbank in Riverside Park to stabilize that area and, hopefully, prevent erosion along that section of the greenway.

CONTACT:
Benjamin W. Tripp
City Planner
City of Salem
PH: 540-375-4001
btripp@salemva.gov

Mike Stevens
City of Salem
Communications Director
(540)375-4112 office
(540)353-2041 cell
mstevens@salemva.gov

Bassmaster Elite Series - Blue Ridge Brawl returns to Smith Mountain Lake

2010-04-13T09:15:00.001-04:00

April 15th- 18th, 2010

2010 Blue Ridge Brawl returns to Smith Mountain Lake

The local 2010 ESPN Bassmaster Blue Ridge Brawl Tournament Committee is pleased to announce that Parkway Marina will again be the host facility for the Elite Series tournament on April 15-18, 2010. Television coverage of the tournament will be shown on ESPN2 on Saturday, May 1st. The use of Parkway Marina was a huge success during the last Brawl in 2007 & 2009, providing a quality experience for spectators and anglers alike. Parkway will be the location for the daily weigh-ins, as well as all tournament related festivities. Back by popular demand the Tournament Committee will offer shuttle services to bring spectators from Bernard’s Landing in Franklin County by water to the tournament area. For more information about these and other exciting events please visit the official Blue Ridge Brawl website at www.blueridgebrawl.com or call 540-483-9293.

College Day – Show your School Spirit-April 16th

Adding to the excitement of the Bassmaster Elite Blue Ridge Brawl launches and weigh in, we would like to invite you to spend the weekend with us and participate in some extra special activities planned. Friday, April 16th is College Day at the Brawl. Plan to hang out after the weigh in for some food, beverages and terrific entertainment with County Bound formally known as Pickin Buds. Get your pitching arm ready because there will also be a Single/Double elimination Corn Hole Competition. Youth and Adult categories. There is no charge to participate in Friday’s activities however there will be a $10 fee to participate in the Corn Hole competition. Special tribute to Virginia Tech University planned.

Take Me Fishing – Fish Like the Pros Youth Fishing Tournament –April 17th

Registration begins a 9 am for the Take Me Fishing-Fish Like the Pros Youth Fishing Tournament. The only thing the kids will need for this competition is bait, tackle and of course their fishing poles. Door prizes, t-shirts and lunch for all the participants. Children will be allowed on the ESPN stage to weigh and display their fish caught. So bring your camera. Participants with the most weight wins!!! Visit the Blue Ridge Brawl website for complete details. This event made possible by a grant through the Take Me Fishing Foundation and Franklin County Parks and Recreation.

Blue Ridge Brawl Karaoke Idol Competition – April 17th

Who will be crowned the 2010 Blue Ridge Brawl Karaoke Idol? You have heard of the American Idol well we want to know who is going to be the Blue Ridge Brawl Karaoke Idol. Do you like to sing karaoke? Do you have lots of friend/fans? Bring them out to the weigh in Saturday afternoon and then participate in the one and only Blue Ridge Brawl Karaoke Idol competition. Cash prizes to 1st through 5th place. Cost for competition is $10. If you don’t want to participate stick around for the food, beverages and fun.

U.S. Sportsman Alliance to participate in this year’s Blue Ridge Brawl

Beginning at noon on Saturday and running through Sunday’s final weigh in the U.S. Sportsman’s Alliance will be on hand offering archery, sport shooting with BB guns and outdoor advocate groups. Also, involved with the U.S. Sportsman Alliance this year is the BASS Casting Kid’s Program. Similar to the NFL’s Punt, Pass & Kick event, this allows children the opportunity to Pitch, Flip and Cast onto a target. Winners from this event will get to go on to the state level this fall.

Commercial Vendor and Volunteers still Needed for Blue Ridge Brawl Tournament

The local 2010 ESPN Bassmaster “Blue Ridge Brawl” Tournament Committee is asking for assistance from the public to put on a successful tournament in April. There are dozens of jobs that need to be done and volunteers are needed to make sure the event goes smoothly. Volunteering not only helps make the event more successful, but it is a great way to get a better view of the behind-the-scenes action. Interested persons should contact Debra Weir, Committee Co-Chairman, at 540-420-8501 or debraweir@frankincountyva.org sign up.
There is also limited number of commercial and non-profit vendor spots still available. Certain restrictions apply so call Debra today.

Valley Business Front Magazine- Going Green Edition

2010-04-13T09:14:00.000-04:00

The Roanoke Regional Partnership’s efforts to catalog and promote the area’s outdoor assets are featured in the cover story in the April issue of Valley Business FRONT.

In keeping with the “green” theme of the issue, it is accessible only online. Click here to read more about the Partnership’s work and to see how our region is going green:http://www.vbfront.com/VBFront_Apr10/index.html

Also, check out Roanokeoutside.com for things you can do personally or

things your business can do.

Other sites to check out:

Roanoke, Virginia, Region’s rail heritage inspires bicycle maker

2010-03-30T10:28:00.001-04:00

What’s does a historic steam locomotive have to do with hand-crafted bicycles?

For one Roanoke native, everything.

Meet Aaron Dykstra, a new entrepreneur with throw-back thinking – building customized bicycles that match bike riders to carefully selected materials.

Dykstra founded the Six-Eleven Bicycle Co. after moving back to Roanoke from Chicago, where the life-long bicycle enthusiast worked for a cycling advocacy group and raced on a team.

His quest? Combine performance with artful design to create the ultimate custom steel bicycles.

His inspiration? The Great 611 J-Class steam locomotive. The Roanoke-built 611, which pulled passengers in the 1950s, is a sleek and powerful engine, the last of a kind. It’s now on display at the Virginia Museum of Transportation.

Dykstra’s frames start at $1,500, with a host of available options. Every creation gets stamped with a number signifying a completed bike.

His work is already getting noticed. He received the rookie of the year award at the 2010 Shimano North American Handmade Bicycle Show.

Dykstra is not the region’s only decorated frame builder. Stratton Delaney is the maker of Kazane bike frames.

With his online shop and downtown Roanoke store, he supplies some leading cycling teams with an array of choices.

The Roanoke Region’s greenways, mountain-bike trails and winding roads are luring bike enthusiasts. And that’s spawning a culture of affiliated groups like Sharebike.org, which recycles bikes and advocates this alternative transport. Sharebike gained recognition from the League of American Bicyclists as a bicycle-friendly business.

As interest in bicycling grows, so do events and races that attract riders. One can’t- miss mountain-bike race is the Wednesday Night Disco Race Series, where racers – some may wear spandex to get their freak on, after all – race up and down Mill Mountain.

January Unemployment Rate Presents Mixed News

2010-03-30T10:27:00.002-04:00

We are not alone. The Roanoke MSA is one of 363 metro areas (out of 372) that registered a higher unemployment rate in January 2010 than 2009. The region’s 8.2 percent unemployment rate was higher than last year’s 6.5 percent. It also is an increase of 0.9 percent from December – the same rate of increase for both Virginia and the United States.

Higher jobless rates in January are not unusual, according to the Virginia Employment Commission, and are caused by cutbacks in the retail, leisure and hospitality sectors after the holidays.

Despite being at its highest mark in a year, Roanoke’s unemployment rate remains below the national average of 10.6 percent and below many areas in the Southeast with which we compete. Roanoke has the fifth lowest unemployment rate in Virginia, behind Charlottesville (6.6 percent), Washington DC-MD-VA (6.9 percent), Harrisonburg (7.0 percent) and Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News (8.0 percent). The Roanoke rate is lower than all North Carolina metro areas. The unemployment rate for the 60-mile labor draw area is 9.4 percent.

For the rest of the story and other stories like this one Click Here>>>

PixelOptics Inc. In the Wall Street Journal

2010-03-30T10:27:00.001-04:00

For people who just can't adjust to wearing regular bifocals or progressive lenses, help is here. Adjustable-focus glasses have a nosepiece slider that let the user adjust the focus for distance, intermediate or near vision. Optometrists say the glasses work well but they are far from fashionable.
***

Presbyopia, which typically starts in the early-to-mid 40s, is an aging of the eye's lens that results in an inability to focus on nearby objects. Symptoms are blurred vision, a tendency to hold reading material at arm's length and headaches when doing close work.

Options for treating it include reading glasses, bifocals and progressive lenses, which provide a progression of lens powers without a visible line. Lenses that combine reading and distance prescriptions often require users to point or tilt their head for optimal vision, optometrists say. Many people are happy with bifocals and progressives, but others never adjust to having to look through a narrow area of the lens for optimal vision.

A new type of eyeglass called TruFocals, sold by Zoom Focus Eyewear LLC of Van Nuys, Calif., allows users to manually focus the entire lens. The glasses contain two lenses—a normal distance prescription on the outside and behind it, a flexible plastic lens filled with a clear optical fluid. As the user moves the slider the pressure on the fluid changes, altering its shape. When the slider is at the far left, reading magnification is off and distance vision is optimized. As it is moved to the right, reading magnification increases.

TruFocals cost $895 on the Web with a 30-day free trial, and are also available from a small number of optometrists. So far, there are no published clinical trials on the glasses. Optometrists who have seen them give them high reviews on function, but they also say many clients won't like the Harry Potter-like frames, the design of which Zoom Focus says is needed for optimum vision quality. "If you are looking strictly for functionality, it is a great solution," says Chris Stanwick, a Belpre, Ohio, optometrist who sold two pairs.

The adjustability is particularly useful for computer work—where bifocals and progressives tend to force users to tilt their head to get into the sweet spot of the lens, says Boston-area optometrist David S. Greenstein, who bought a pair for himself that he is showing to customers. TruFocals also solve the annoying problem of being forced to use the reading portion every time you look down. For this reason, walking down stairs or stepping off curbs can be troublesome with bifocals and progressives, Dr. Stanwick says. And golfers who want to see the ball clearly while looking down but need readers to see their score card can also benefit, optometrists say.

People who may find them useful are diabetics, whose vision can change slightly daily, and mechanics or electricians, who need magnification when looking up. NASA is evaluating them for use in space flights since astronauts must be able to focus while looking in any direction. "The optics are crystal clear," says C. Robert Gibson, a senior optometrist at the Johnson Space Center in Houston.

I tested the glasses at Dr. Greenstein's office while wearing contact lenses, but without a distance lens. The glasses were easy to use to read small print on an aspirin bottle, but adjusting them called for two hands—one to adjust the slider and one to hold on to the glasses. Zoom Focus says experienced users can do it one-handed and that the focusing becomes automatic with time.

The fashion-conscious might want to wait for PixelOptics Inc.'s new electronic glasses, which will be available nationally in early 2011, with a choice of more than 20 frames. The glasses, expected to cost about $1,000 to $1,200, will be like regular progressives but with a switch on the side of the frame that lets users turn off the reading lens to gain a larger intermediate-vision zone, the Roanoke, Va., company says.

The downside: They contain a small battery that must be charged by placing the glasses on a charging tray every two or three days.

By Laura Joannes

To read more from this source, Click Here>>>

Work Begins on Lewis-Gale Medical Facility at Daleville Town Center

2010-03-30T10:26:00.001-04:00

A groundbreaking ceremony March 16 in the Roanoke, Region of Virginia marked the beginning of construction on the new Lewis-Gale Imaging Center at Daleville. The $5 million, nearly-20,000-square-foot facility also will house a primary care/specialty physician practice. The imaging center will be the first free-standing imaging center in Botetourt County and will offer state-of-the-art imaging procedures, including CT, ultrasound and general radiology (x-rays).

Including medical services in the commercial mix was a priority in planning Daleville Town Center, according to Karen Waldron, owner and CEO of Fralin & Waldron, the developer. Daleville Town Center is southwestern Virginia’s first traditional neighborhood development, and will combine residential, commercial, retail and restaurants in an old-fashioned town-type setting.
Lewis-Gale expects the facility to be open next spring.

Virginia Economic Developers Honor Roanoke County

2010-03-16T15:13:00.001-04:00

Roanoke County, Winchester-Frederick County and Fairfax County
all named winners with best practices nominations

Williamsburg - The Virginia Economic Developers Association (VEDA) announced the selection of Roanoke County, Winchester-Frederick County, and Fairfax County as winners in two different population categories of the 2010 Community Economic Development Awards. The awards were presented at the association's recent Spring Conference in Williamsburg.

Roanoke County was one of two nominees selected in Category Four with a population between 40,001 and 100,000 people. Nominated by Doug Chittum, Director of Economic Development, Roanoke County, the submitted project touched on all four categories of the CEDA award, incorporating Business Retention/Expansion, Community Development, Business Attraction, and Community Involvement. Roanoke County's featured project was the Green Ridge Recreation Center, a publicly-owned and developed multi-generational facility designed to anchor a proposed new business park and serve the growing needs of the community and region. Not just another recreation center, this facility will serve as a catalyst for new economic development opportunities throughout the entire Roanoke Valley.

The CEDA awards are designed to recognize outstanding communities in the Commonwealth for their efforts in advancing the economic viability of their community through economic and community development programs. VEDA is following the format developed by the Southern Economic Development Council (SEDC) and will submit its eligible winners to SEDC to be considered by that organization for a southern states regional award. This is the fifth year for VEDA's Community Economic Development Awards.

Jill Loope, Virginia Director to SEDC and Chairman of VEDA's CEDA selection committee, said, "We are extremely pleased with the increased number of nominations we continue to receive in our fifth year of this awards competition. The CEDA program was established to promote and recognize 'best practices' and the 2010 Virginia winners certainly give us excellent examples from which to learn and upon which to build." To see copies of each of the selected Community Economic Development Awards submissions link to www.GoVEDA.org.

VEDA is a member-based professional association committed to providing training and development; networking opportunities; and serving as the voice of the economic development community, creating economic opportunity and prosperity for the Commonwealth of Virginia. VEDA's membership is comprised of more than 550 economic development professionals and related industry professionals from across the state of Virginia. For more information about VEDA visit the website at www.GoVEDA.org.

# # #

Roanoke, Virginia Region Marks 75th Anniversary of Blue Ridge Parkway

2010-03-16T12:05:00.001-04:00

The Blue Ridge Parkway isn’t just a scenic road.

For 217 miles in Virginia it meanders atop ridgelines, inches up mountains and curves down passes. It’s a place where time stands still -- just long enough to catch your breath.

Some of the Parkway’s most impressive views are in the Roanoke, Virginia Region, the most populous section of the Parkway in Virginia. And with the Parkway marking its 75th anniversary in 2010, there’s plenty to celebrate this spring.

The Blue Ridge Bike Fest is an all-makes motorcycle expo and festival celebrating the Blue Ridge Mountains. The April 9-11 event features concerts, vendors, stunt demonstrations and rides among some of the best scenery anywhere.

If you prefer to run on the Parkway the inaugural Blue Ridge Marathon on April 24 offers 3,076 feet of elevation gain on its 26-mile course. The uphill will test each runner’s strength and endurance while the equally challenging downhill sections are sure to weed out the unprepared. The good news: the views are stunning. Net proceeds from the race will benefit Friends of the Blue Ridge Parkway to protect, preserve and enhance this national treasure.

For more cerebral adventures, the 75th anniversary celebration will include a conference about the past and future of the Parkway. Sustaining Communities, Environments, and Economies is hosted by Virginia Tech and will be held at the historic Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center on Oct 14-16. Academics, non-profit organizations and communities will share new research and engage in conversations that will outline a vision for the Blue Ridge Parkway for its next 75 years

With conservation in mind, the Virginia Tourism Corporation is sponsoring an online contest that will send a family of four on a seven-day road trip down the Virginia leg of the Blue Ridge Parkway, which will include a two-night stay at Hotel Roanoke and visits to Roanoke Valley attractions.

The "Go Green on the Blue Ridge Parkway Sweepstakes" promotes Virginia tourism, especially green-energy travel. The contest winner will be awarded the use of a hybrid rental car and will visit attractions certified by the Virginia Green program, which recognizes hotels and attractions for energy conservation.

To enter, fill out the entry form at www.virginia.org/brp. The sweepstakes runs through Oct. 31.

See historic photos of the Parkway HERE>>>

Roanoke Cycling Organization partners with RoanokeOutside.com

2010-03-16T12:03:00.001-04:00

-From WDBJ7

For more information, Click Here>>>

YMCAs, New Recreation Center Keeps Roanoke, Virginia Region Fit

2010-03-16T12:02:00.003-04:00

With its mountains, lakes and rivers, the Roanoke, Virginia Region is an outdoor playground luring runners, hikers, cyclists and kayakers.

Fortunately, there are plenty of places to stay in shape when the weather isn’t cooperating.

The region boasts some 25,000 YMCA members. That means one out of every 10 people in the Roanoke Region is served by the YMCA through memberships or programs. That compares to a U.S. average of one in 14.

Seven YMCAs locations in the region -- in Roanoke, Salem, Rocky Mount, Smith Mountain Lake and Alleghany County -- offer a combined 362,000 square feet of space. Five of the buildings are five years old or less, some of the newest facilities anywhere loaded with state-of-the-art equipment, fitness centers, pools and community rooms.

YMCA members around the region also have full access to any of the locations.

Along with new private gyms, the region also boasts a new $32 million, 76,000-square-foot athletic and aquatic facility, Green Ridge Recreation Center, with elevated walking track, basketball courts, weight and workout facilities and indoor pool featuring water slide, lap lanes and children’s water playground. This spring, the pool area extends outside to create the region’s largest water park, Splash Valley.

The Hotel Roanoke Reviewed in The Washington Post

2010-03-16T12:02:00.001-04:00

A night at the Hotel Roanoke, a.k.a. 'The Grand Old Lady'

"The Grand Old Lady," as the Hotel Roanoke is known, has been around for as long as Roanoke has been called Roanoke, which is to say, for nearly 130 years. (The former railroad town in southwest Virginia was originally called Big Lick. How fortunate for the hotel that someone decided on a name change.) Perched on a hill overlooking the city, the Tudor-style building towers over everything around it and has rightly earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.

So it seemed very apropos that a piano was playing when I arrived for a recent overnight. Elegant, I thought. Until I realized that it was a player piano. That was the only tacky feature in an otherwise grand lobby decorated with Czech-made chandeliers, marble floors, wood-paneled walls and brown leather chairs.

Built in 1882 by railroad magnate Frederick J. Kimball, the hotel started as a resting place for railroaders passing through town. But since a few multimillion-dollar renovations and expansions, including an ongoing one that began in 2007, it has been the place to stay for any visitors to Roanoke. Guests have included U.S. presidents, Virginia governors, theater and sports stars and -- my personal favorite -- Miss Virginia contestants. In fact, the first Miss Virginia Pageant was held at the hotel in 1953, and pictures of a couple of the winners hang on the wall in one wing. I was happy to join such an illustrious group of guests.

When I checked in, the friendly clerk handed me a chocolate chip cookie. Good thing I had the treat, because the trip to my room took longer than I expected. The building has so many wings that it's easy to get lost, and I did. Fortunately, there were plenty of employees along the way willing to direct me toward my destination.

My recently renovated room was spacious, even if the "Sweet Dreams" pillow on the bed was a bit corny. The bathroom had a nice touch: Neutrogena facial wash. That was a novelty. I liked the way the room preserved the hotel's traditional look -- the vanity cabinet in the bathroom looked like an antique -- but still had modern touches, such as a flat-screen TV.

Although I hadn't requested it, I ended up in a Club Level room. That entitled me to a free happy hour in.... Read the Rest of the story Here>>>

Find Great Lodging in and around the Roanoke, Virginia Region Here>>>

E.S.P.N. BASSMASTERS Elite Fishing Tournament Returns to Smith Mountain Lake

2010-02-25T14:24:00.001-05:00

It may still be chilly but it’s almost time for the pros to prep the tackle.

The Bassmaster Elite Series returns April 15-18 to Smith Mountain Lake, one of the finest bass lakes anywhere.

The 20,000-acre lake offers more than 500 miles of winding shoreline along its 40-mile length. That means it’s full of coves, cuts and drainages, with plenty of shallows where largemouth bass love to hide.

The Advance Auto Parts Blue Ridge Brawl will lure dozens of pro anglers and thousands of spectators to the Roanoke, Virginia Region.

And many of those will be on the lake to watch.

While the number of boat registrations grew by just 0.4 percent in Virginia from 2006-2008, the Roanoke Region outpaced that growth. Franklin County, which borders the lake with continued residential development, saw a 4 percent increase, with the region as a whole gaining 2.2 percent.

Vibrant Music Scene in Roanoke, Virginia Region

2010-02-18T10:08:00.001-05:00

Maybe it’s the Roanoke, Virginia Region’s proximity to the roots of Appalachian music. Perhaps it’s the area’s many colleges drawing new acts. Or it’s new venues attracting musicians.

Whatever the reason, we sure like to get a groove on.

From intimate nightclubs with up-and-coming talent to large venues featuring international stars -- and music festivals thrown in -- the Roanoke Region is establishing itself as a music destination with more variety and places to listen than ever.

The burgeoning scene is punctuated by Kirk Avenue Music Hall, newly renovated space in downtown Roanoke akin to being in a musician’s living room. Chairs and tables are arranged depending on the genre, and there’s nary a bad seat in the house. Kirk Avenue features traveling acts, regional bands – even a regular songwriter showcase to give rising starts a chance to shine.

A few blocks away, the Jefferson Center hosts the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra, Opera Roanoke and touring acts of all genres, from Los Lobos and Bryan Adams to jazz, blues and funk.

It’s also home to the Music Lab, where students can learn how to perform, record and engineer music in a rigorous program that stresses community service. And if you’re ready to step to the mike, the Music Lab provides studios, instruments and recording equipment so you can create the next great song without a record label.

Larger venues in the region, including the Roanoke Civic Center and Salem Civic Center attract touring acts in country, rock, folk, Broadway and more. (Celtic Woman, the internationally renowned quintet, liked Roanoke so much they kicked off their North American tour there after spending more than a week in town rehearsing.)

For those who care for more intimate locations, dozens of restaurants and bars – from upscale to down-home – host a slew of bands every week. And when the weather warms, the region kicks into festival season. Among them: Big Lick Blues Festival Festival in the Park and First Fridays, featuring acts performing on top of an old flatbed rail car.

New this year is the Down by Downtown Festival, a four-day celebration of music spread across multiple venues.

If you prefer lawn chairs over bar stools, the city of Covington’s River Rock Amphitheater offers mountain tunes set in the Alleghany Highlands.

If that’s not enough, the National Trust for Historic Preservation named the Crooked Road, Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail, one of its 2010 Dozen Distinctive Destinations. The Crooked Road is a scenic drive that blends small-town charm with the Appalachian region’s musical heritage along 300 miles ending in Franklin County. Sites along the route play tribute to bluegrass, old time and traditional country music.

To keep up on the region’s music scene, check out the cutNscratch Blog.

Population, Income on Rise in Roanoke Region

2010-02-09T11:38:00.000-05:00

First annual Report on Regional Economic Progress shows mixed results

ROANOKE, Va., (Feb. 3, 2010) – The Roanoke Region’s population and income rose between 2006 and 2008, according to the Roanoke Regional Partnership’s first annual Report on Regional Economic Progress.

The report, which charts 14 indicators – ranging from business openings to boat ownership – was prepared by the research staff of the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission. It presents new data for the region served by the Roanoke Regional Partnership, which stretches from the Alleghany Highlands to Smith Mountain Lake.

“Tracking economic metrics is part of the program of the Roanoke Regional Partnership’s program of work so we can paint a realistic picture of the region’s economic prosperity and quality of life assets,” said Beth Doughty, executive director. The indicators will be monitored annually for the next five years.

The report shows a mixed picture of progress in population growth, income, taxable sales, business establishments, retail and restaurants, gross metropolitan product, new vehicle registrations, home sales, and metropolitan economic performance. Also included are quality-of- life indicators such as trail mileage, boats registered, state park attendance, Carvins Cove usage, and employment in arts/entertainment/recreation.

On the positive side, growth rates dramatically improved between 2006 and 2008 from earlier in the decade. Several localities went from losing population each year to positive growth. The region as a whole went from zero growth in the earliest part of this decade to 0.6 percent annualized growth between 2006 and 2008.

Another key indicator is income. Inflation-adjusted incomes have been stagnant in the region over the longer term. More recently (from 2004 to 2006, most current available), data suggests that the region has had faster growth than Virginia. The Metropolitan Statistical Area median adjusted gross income for married couples increased by 7.57 percent from 2004 to 2006, while the state’s increased just 6.11 percent. However, the region remains far off Virginia's income figures.

Quality-of-life indicators reinforce the region's new focus on promoting outdoor amenities. Virginia state park attendance in the region is increasing at a significantly higher rate than in the Commonwealth in general. Usage of Carvins Cove has grown as well. However, employment in the arts, entertainment, and recreation sectors have declined, losing ground against Virginia trends.

The indicators were selected to reflect a general picture of the economy and regional assets. Doughty says the report may be expanded in future years to reflect more assets and economic indicators. “The report is a communications tool to help people feel good about their region as well as identify areas that need continued attention. It’s a report card.”

A summary of the results was presented at the Roanoke Regional Partnership’s annual meeting on Feb. 4 at Hotel Roanoke. Doughty also gave a report on the work of the Partnership in 2009. Accomplishments included two new Web sites, www.roanoke.org and www.roanokeoutside.com, mentions in national media such as the Wall Street Journal, and events such as the Radical Reels Film Festival and the upcoming Blue Ridge Marathon on the Parkway. She noted that business recruitment activity was slow in 2009 as companies pulled back on capital investment. Activity in business recruitment and expansion included the opening of Lite Steel Technologies, expansion at Foot Levelers, expansion of Empire Foods, and the location of Cole&Russell, Architects.

ABOUT THE ROANOKE REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP
The Roanoke Regional Partnership was founded in 1983 as a regional economic development organization for the greater Roanoke area that includes Alleghany, Botetourt, Franklin, and Roanoke counties plus the cities of Roanoke and Salem and the town of Vinton. Its program of work includes image building, asset development, and business recruitment and has been involved in business locations and expansions that have created more than 13,600 jobs and $1.3 billion in investment in real estate and equipment. To learn more, please visit www.Roanoke.org.

Roanoke Region Cost of Living Compares Well with Rest of Virginia

2010-02-09T11:37:00.002-05:00

ROANOKE, Va. (January 26, 2010) – The Roanoke, Virginia Region offers the lowest cost of living of the seven Virginia metro areas included in the Council for Community and Economic Research’s ACCRA Cost of Living Index 2009 Annual Review.

The annual review is an average of data accumulated from the three pricing periods of the previous year. According to the 2009 report, the region has the lowest cost of living index among the metro areas and the second lowest of the nine participating Virginia communities. Overall, the Roanoke, Virginia Region’s cost of living index is 95.3 compared with the national index average of 100.

“This latest survey highlights the Roanoke Region’s continued competitiveness as an affordable place to live and run a business,” said Beth Doughty, executive director of the Roanoke Regional Partnership. “When combined with other recent good economic news – a stabilizing real estate market and falling unemployment rates, it is no wonder we’re starting to be noticed by national publications such as The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post, and Business Facilities.

The 2009 average is higher than last year’s 92.6, in part of the relative health of the local home prices. Data recently released by both the Roanoke Valley and National Associations of REALTORS® shows the December to December growth in home prices. Locally, prices rose 15.4% from $171,332 to $197,748. Nationally, home prices rose just 3.6%. Housing accounts for 28.99% of the overall cost of living, which is derived from costs in that and five other consumer categories: groceries, utilities, transportation, health care and miscellaneous goods and services.

ABOUT THE ROANOKE REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP

The Roanoke Regional Partnership was founded in 1983 as a regional economic development organization for the greater Roanoke area that includes Alleghany, Botetourt, Franklin, and Roanoke counties plus the cities of Roanoke and Salem and the town of Vinton. Its program of work includes image building, asset development, and business recruitment and has been involved in business locations and expansions that have created more than 13,600 jobs and $1.3 billion in investment in real estate and equipment. The Partnership has been conducting the Roanoke MSA cost of living survey since 1992. To learn more, please visit www.Roanoke.org.

hhgregg Announces 100 Job Openings in Roanoke and Colonial Heights, VA

2010-02-09T11:37:00.001-05:00

--2010 Business Wire

Today, Indianapolis-based appliance and electronics leader hhgregg HGG announced it is looking to fill approximately 100 positions for two new stores scheduled to open in Roanoke and Colonial Heights, VA this spring. The Roanoke store will be located at 1900 Valley View Blvd. NW and the Colonial Heights store will be located at 820 Southpark Blvd. hhgregg expects to hire about 50 employees for each new store.

Individuals interested in applying for the open positions are encouraged to visit the "Careers" section on hhgregg’s website, http://www.hhgregg-jobs.com/, beginning on 1/25/2010. An online application and assessment must be completed in order to secure an interview with the company.

“As we continue our expansion in Virginia, we are actively seeking talented members of the local community to be part of the hhgregg team,” said Andrew Eaton, regional manager, hhgregg. “There are many exciting opportunities at hhgregg for motivated individuals looking to grow with our company. We encourage those with a friendly attitude and customer service focus to apply.”

Online applications for commissioned sales associates, warehouse staff, customer service merchandisers and manager- in-training positions will be accepted. Sales experience is preferred, but retail experience is not required. hhgregg has a comprehensive training program, which provides more than 200 hours of training for each sales associate. To apply online, please visit http://www.hhgregg-jobs.com/

CORPORATE OVERVIEW

hhgregg HGG is a specialty retailer of consumer electronics, home appliances, mattresses and related services operating under the names hhgregg® and Fine Lines®. hhgregg currently operates 127 stores in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.

For more from the Business Wire, Click Here>>>

Best of the City 2010

2010-02-09T11:36:00.002-05:00

Weigh in and be heard!

Vote online below.

One ballot per person. Duplicates will not be counted. All responses are confidential. Names, phone numbers, and email addresses are for prize notification; your information will not be shared with others.

Ballots must have at least 20 answers to qualify. Any perceived attempts at ballot stuffing will be disqualified. City Magazine reserves the right to disqualify any entry. Ballots must be received no later than February 1, 2010. No faxes or photocopies will be accepted, no exceptions.

Results will appear in the March 2010 issue.

VOTE HERE

Not All the Housing News is Bad: Roanoke Valley Area Outperforms U.S. in Price Growth

2010-02-09T11:36:00.001-05:00

Like the old saying goes, “I’ve got good news and I’ve got bad news.” The bad news would be the sharp drop in the number of homes sold from November to December – in both the local and national markets, though both are up from December 2008.

The good news is the strength of the Roanoke Region’s December home prices from a year ago compared to the national average. Roanoke home prices rose 15.4% from $171,332 to $197,748, while still remaining an affordable 12.3% below the national average. Nationally, home prices rose 3.6%.

The number of residential units sold in the Roanoke area, according to the Roanoke Valley Association of REALTORS® dropped in December from 333 to 247, but still is up more than 71% from 144 in January (which was the low for the year).

Roanoke’s average price for 2009, $188,855, was 11.5% lower than 2007, again showing more stability than the national average. The 2009 average US home price of $217,300 was more than 18% lower than it was in 2007.

National Association of REALTORS® chief economist Lawrence Yun predicts more swings in the housing market due to the tax credit. “We’ll likely have another surge in the spring as home buyers take advantage of the extended and expanded tax credit,” he said the NAR’s monthly existing home sales news release, adding that “by early summer the overall market should benefit from more balanced inventory, and sales are on track to rise again in 2010.”

Blue Ridge Parkway 75th Anniversary is Here

2010-02-09T11:34:00.001-05:00

The Blue Ridge Parkway’s 75th Anniversary is officially here with the advent of 2010. Construction of the 469-mile All American Scenic Byway began September 11, 1935, at Cumberland Knob, near the North Carolina and Virginia border. A celebration of this special American treasure and its importance as a cultural, historical, and natural resource includes events and activities throughout the year in communities that line the Parkway.

A list of events, which may be searched by community or region or by month, is on line at www.blueridgeparkway75.org and is updated regularly. To date, over 400 events have been identified as part of the year-long celebration. A sampling of some of the events and festivities includes the following:

FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway Viewshed Planting (North of Roanoke, VA, at Milepost 104.9) – March 20, 2010. A bi-annual planting of 500 to 600 seedlings along the Parkway designed to help protect scenic vistas. www.blueridgefriends.org
The Blue Ridge Bike Fest (Roanoke, VA, near Milepost 120) – April 9-April 11, 2010. An all-makes motorcycles expo, show, and festival with music, stunt demonstrations, and access to rides on the Parkway. www.blueridgebikefest.com
Opening Juried Art Exhibit “Memories: The Blue Ridge Parkway in Retrospect” (Galax, VA, near Milepost 215) – In conjunction with the opening of the Chestnut Creek School of the Arts, this exhibit will run April 16-June 14. www.chestnutcreekarts.org
Virginia Fly Fishing Festival (Waynesboro, VA, near Milepost 0) – April 17 and 18, 2010. For novice and experienced fly anglers, the event offers instruction, Virginia wine tastings, and a focus on conservation education and natural resources stewardship. www.vaflyfishingfestival.org
55th Annual Vinton Dogwood Festival (Vinton, VA, near Milepost 112) – April 21-25, 2010. Festival features a parade, antique car show, craft show, children's area, carnival, distance run, and multiple entertainment stages. www.vintondogwoodfestival.org
Blue Ridge Marathon (Roanoke, VA, near Milepost 120) – April 24, 2010. An inaugural marathon – one of the most difficult and beautiful marathons on the east coast - will begin at the Taubman Museum of Art and end at The Hotel Roanoke. www.blueridgemarathon.com
Spring on the Blue Ridge Parkway Art Exhibit (Floyd, VA, near Milepost 165) – May 1-May 31, 2010. A month-long, multi-media exhibit at the Jacksonville Center for the Arts. www.jacksonvillecenter.org
“More Than a Mountain: Celebrating the Land and Community of the Peaks of Otter” (Bedford, VA, near Milepost 86) – May 29-July 9, 2010. A community-wide juried art exhibition commemorating the Parkway’s 75th Anniversary with various art – painting, sculpture, photography, pottery, glass, and mixed media. www.visitbedford.com
Blue Ridge Bliss Cycling Tour (Rockbridge County, VA, near Milepost 46) – June 5-June 11, 2010. Offered by Adventure Cycling Association, a guided bike tour. Fees are required. www.adventurecycling.org/tours
KIVA Celebrates the Blue Ridge Parkway (Roanoke, VA, near Milepost 121) – June 19, 2010. Hosted by Kids in the Valley, Adventuring!, a special kids’ hike with a picnic on Roanoke Mountain. www.kidsadventuring.org
Chateau Morrisette Wine and Music Festival (Floyd, VA, near Milepost 165) – July 7, August 14, and October 10, 2010. www.thedogs.com
Galax Moose Lodge Old Fiddler’s Convention (Galax, VA, near Milepost 215) – August 8-August 14, 2010. This fiddler’s convention turns 75 years old in 2010, too! www.oldfiddlersconvention.com
Imagining the Blue Ridge Parkway for the 21st Century (Roanoke, VA, near Milepost 120) October 14-October 16, 2010, at The Hotel Roanoke. The second in a two-part symposium, this conference’s focus will be Sustaining Communities, Environments and Economies. www.blueridgeparkway.org

Besides event information and historical resources about the Blue Ridge Parkway, www.blueridgeparkway75.org also offers commemorative items in its on-line store. The new 2010 Blue Ridge Parkway Directory is available at Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Centers along the road as well as through the Blue Ridge Parkway Association at www.blueridgeparkway.org.

Blue Ridge Parkway 75, Inc. is the non-profit organization designated by the National Park Service to lead the Parkway’s 75th Anniversary celebration. With representation from all of the Parkway’s partner groups, the states of North Carolina and Virginia, and community leaders along the 469-mile scenic route, Blue Ridge Parkway 75, Inc.’s mission is to engage local communities and all visitors in an anniversary that focuses attention on a sustainable and healthy Parkway for future generations. For more information, visit www.blueridgeparkway75.org

Roanoke.org Got a Facelift!

2010-01-29T08:46:00.005-05:00

After Months of planning, Roanoke.org is finally completed. Please check it out and comment below and let us know what you think!

ROANOKE'S TAUBMAN MUSEUM OF ART SHOWCASE IN THE WASHINGTON POST

2010-01-22T15:28:00.000-05:00

"Roanoke's Taubman Museum of Art showcases American art in Frank Gehry-inspired design" - From The Washington Post

From the outside, I could understand why the residents of Roanoke have such a love-hate relationship with the Taubman Museum of Art. With its stainless steel appendages and a bulbous area that juts out over the sidewalk, this 81,000-square-foot steel, glass and patinated zinc structure seems distinctly out of place in a downtown filled with simple industrial-era brick buildings.

Nancy Trejos/The Washington Post

But then I went inside. The building, designed by Los Angeles architect and Frank Gehry protege Randall Stout, is a work of art in itself, with a dramatic 4,300-square-foot glass atrium and an illuminated glass staircase to the second-floor galleries. It's the type of ultramodern museum you'd expect to find in New York, not in an old railroad town of 95,000 people.

Before the $66 million museum opened in 2008, Roanoke was probably best known for the enormous star atop Mill Mountain that's illuminated every night (giving Roanoke its nickname, Star City of the South), the Tudor-style luxury Hotel Roanoke (built in 1882) and a few museums celebrating the town's railroad history. But the Taubman Museum has delivered a jolt to this once-sleepy city that most people bypass in favor of better-known destinations, Richmond and Charlottesville.

The Taubman's collection of American art had once been housed in a former warehouse nearby, sharing the building with the Science Museum of Western Virginia and the History Museum of Western Virginia. Then Peggy Macdowell Thomas, the last living heir of American realist painter Thomas Eakins and a Roanoke resident, bequeathed his portraits, personal effects and archival documents to the museum. The warehouse "wasn't appropriate for a museum with a collection of this caliber," said spokeswoman Kimberly Templeton, so the museum raised funds for the new building. Former ambassador to Romania Nicholas Taubman and his wife, Eugenia, donated more than $15 million to the effort, and the city pitched in $4 million plus the land.

I took in "Sordid and Sacred," a Rembrandt exhibit running until Feb. 7 that consists of 35 etchings, many postcard-size, of beggars, drawn between 1629 and 1654. I grabbed one of the magnifying glasses on hand to study the etchings and was amazed by the details on the faces, the clothing, the boots.

In a connecting gallery, North Carolina artist Mike Houston and West Virginia's Martin Mazorra are displaying their modern take on Rembrandt's etchings until Feb. 14. The highlight of "Jumpstart and Holler!" is a tent city, 17 camping tents printed and stitched with images of beggars. The two exhibitions complement each other, the old and the new -- quite apropos given that the museum itself represents a new twist in an old city.

Works by 19th- and early 20th-century American artists such as John Singer Sargent, Winslow Homer, Maria Oakley Dewing and John H. Twachtman are housed in two adjoining American art galleries. The works by Eakins and his wife, Susan Macdowell Eakins, are dominated by portraits of family members.

After checking into the historic Hotel Roanoke, I sent a tweet asking for restaurant recommendations and, to my surprise, got quite a few. For a city this small, the dining options seemed plentiful as did the number of active tweeters. I chose Metro, which had an eclectic mix of American fare, such as sliders, as well as dim sum and sushi. Striking up a conversation with some locals, I asked what I should do the next day. Their replies: Catch an indie flick at the charming old Grandin Theatre, visit the historic farmers market (the oldest continuously operating open air market in Virginia), listen to music at the Kirk Avenue Music Hall, eat at Zorba's Cafe in the City Market and hike to the top of the mountain.

I liked that last idea. Despite the frigid temperatures, I was determined to get to that giant star. The next morning, I bundled up and started up the Mill Mountain Star Trail with Heidi Ketler, a local freelance writer and friend of a colleague. Unfortunately, we didn't get far: The path was too icy. Thwarted, we headed back to the newly revitalized downtown.

We hit the farmers market, which is usually bustling with vendors selling organic meats, produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods and more. But only Al Hubbard, a "squash cake specialist," had decided to brave the cold that morning. He let us sample his cakes, which he calls "Healthy Stuff."

Fortified, we drove back to the mountain and right up to "the world's largest man-made star," as the plaque beneath it declared. The 88.5-foot-tall neon star, built in 1949 by the Roanoke Merchants Association to kick off the Christmas shopping season, was such a hit that it's now illuminated year-round. And up close, it's quite impressive. But in the end, I decided that an even bigger star is Roanoke itself.

By Nancy Trejos
Washington Post Staff Writer
Friday, January 22, 2010

Click Here to read the original article

Share

UPS AND DOWNS POINT TO STABILIZING ECONOMY

2010-01-22T15:24:00.002-05:00

The Roanoke Region’s economy is showing signs of stabilizing and improving. Home prices are up from a year ago and so are wages. Unemployment rates are down from the highs this summer, as is foreclosure activity.

The average home price, according to the Roanoke Valley Association of REALTORS®, ended the year higher than January and much higher than December 2008. This December’s $197,748 was 3.7 percent higher than January and 15.4% higher than a year ago.

On the flip side, foreclosure filings reported by RealtyTrac have stabilized over the past few months. The number of filings dropped dramatically (33.6%) from October to November after rising for four months. November’s 93 filings remained fairly stable in December at 95. The region has stayed well below the national average.

Unemployment also has leveled out. The rate began falling in July from June’s high of 7.8 percent. The November rate of 7.1 is just a tick up from 7.0 in October. Wages in the region for the second quarter of 2009 (most recent available) are higher than they were a year before ($705 versus $$692) and up from the previous quarter. Virginia, on the other hand, saw wages drop from $920 in the first quarter to $899.

Looking for more information? Click Here>>>

2010 BEST OF THE OUTDOORS- ROANOKE, VIRGINIA REGION TAKES FOUR TOP SPOTS

2010-01-22T15:20:00.001-05:00

The "2010 Best of the Outdoors" was named by Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine January 2010 issue. Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine is the largest outdoor sports magazine in the Southeast, stretching from Maryland to Georgia. The Roanoke, Virginia Region stood prominent among the Blue Ridge Outdoors's "2010 Best of the Outdoors" taking home four "best of" awards.

Best Urban Park

1. CARVINS COVE RESERVE, Roanoke, Va. (Check out here)
2. James River Park, Richmond, Va.
3. Crowders Mountain, Charlotte, N.C.
4. Chattahoochee National Recreation Area, Atlanta, Ga.
5. Great Falls Park, Washington, D.C.
6. Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield, Marietta, Ga.

Favorite Section of the Appalachian Trail

1. DRAGON'S TOOTH- Catawba,Va (Check out here)
2. Mount Rogers/Grayson Highlands
3. Roan Mountain
4. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
5. Shenandoah National Park
6. McAfee Knob

Best Outdoor Festival

1. FLOYD FEST, Floyd, Va.
2. Mountain Sports Fest, Asheville, N.C.
3. Trail Days, Damascus, Va.
4. Woolly Worm Festival, Banner Elk, N.C.
5. GauleyFest, Summersville, N.C.
6. Bonnaroo, Manchester, Tenn.

Favorite Section of the Blue Ridge Parkway

1. PEAKS OF OTTER- Bedford, Va (milepost 86)
2. Graveyard field, mp 418, N.C.
3. Humpback Rocks, mp 6, Va.
4. Linn Cove Viaduct, mp 304, N.C.
5. Waterrock Knob, mp 451, N.C.
6. Rocky Knob, mp 169, Va

NEWS RELEASE- ROANOKE REGINAL PARTNERSHIP LAUNCHES ROANOKEOUTSIDE.COM

2010-01-14T08:45:00.000-05:00

Comprehensive new Web site is first of its kind; public contributed input to promote Roanoke, Virginia region’s outdoor assets

ROANOKE, Va. (January 14, 2010) – The Roanoke Regional Partnership today launched RoanokeOutside.com – the most comprehensive and interactive resource to learn about and explore the Roanoke, Virginia region’s outdoors.
The new site (www.RoanokeOutside.com) -- the first of its kind dedicated to the Roanoke, Virginia region -- was developed with hundreds of suggestions from area residents who shared their favorite hiking and biking trails, fishing holes, camping spots, kid activities, gear shops, as well as features they wanted to see on the site. Others employed GPS-equipped phones to map out trails and wrote descriptions of outdoor activities.

RoanokeOutside.com covers the greater Roanoke, Virginia area that stretches from Douthat State Park to Smith Mountain Lake between the James River and New River. The site includes an event calendar, suggested itineraries, list of guides, gear rentals, maps, photos, videos, message boards, blogs, gear reviews, cabin rentals, classifieds, and other features to help make getting outside easy, educational and sustainable.

“With the help of outdoor enthusiasts from throughout our region, we have dedicated more than a year to develop the leading source of information about all things outside to properly leverage the Roanoke, Virginia region’s greatest asset – the outdoors,” said Beth Doughty, executive director of the Roanoke Regional Partnership. “Making the outdoors an important part of our region’s narrative and economy starts with a dynamic Web site that catalogues our natural resources and makes it easier for people all over the world to learn about and enjoy what we have to offer.”

It was made possible thanks to a $25,000 grant from the Virginia Tourism Corporation’s Virginia Is for Lovers Marketing Leverage Program.

Much like RoanokeOutside.com was developed with the help of the region’s residents, the site will continue to be a conduit of connectivity using interactive blogs, discussion groups and social media outreach using Twitter and Facebook.

“The Roanoke, Virginia region is one of the best spots anywhere for outdoor recreation, and RoanokeOutside.com tells that story in a way we’ve never been able to do before,” said Pete Eshelman, director of outdoor branding for the Roanoke Regional Partnership. “It provides an interactive platform to continue to share tips and connect with people passionate about the outdoors or those simply wanting to take the first steps toward getting outside for fun and exercise.”

Businesses, colleges urged to link to RoanokeOutside.com

To help spread the word about the site and increase global exposure, the Roanoke Regional Partnership is asking businesses, colleges and other organizations in the region to add a link to www.RoanokeOutside.com from their home pages.

“Our new site is an ideal way to show young professionals that the Roanoke, Virginia region is an ideal place to start and build their careers,” Eshelman says. “Having a comprehensive site like ours makes it easy for young professionals to research the region as a place they want to live.”

RoanokeOutside.com also is a great way for employers to showcase the region’s assets to employees, potential recruits and other web visitors. “A link to RoanokeOutside.com shows that a company, college or other organization cares about the outdoors and its impact on economic development in the region,” Eshelman says.

ABOUT THE ROANOKE REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP
The Roanoke Regional Partnership was founded in 1983 as a regional economic development organization for the greater Roanoke area that includes Alleghany, Botetourt, Franklin, and Roanoke counties plus the cities of Roanoke and Salem and the town of Vinton. Its program of work includes image building, asset development, and business recruitment. The Partnership has been involved in business locations and expansions that have created more than 13,600 jobs and $1.3 billion in investment in real estate and equipment. To learn more, please visit www.Roanoke.org.

NEW YORK TIMES HIGHLIGHTS REVOLUTIONARY PRODUCT OF ROANOKE, VIRGINIA AREA FIRM

2010-01-07T16:24:00.000-05:00

A New York Times article Sunday, January 3, 2010, featured a revolutionary new bearing from Synchrony, a company founded and grown by Dr. Victor Iannello in the Roanoke, Virginia area.

Under the headline “Bearings That Pack a Punch (and Their Own Controls)”, the article discusses how Synchrony has miniaturized the often bulky control systems that have complicated the use of magnetic bearings in industrial equipment such as pumps, generators, motors and compressors.

“When you hold the bearing in your hand,” the article quotes Iannello about the company’s new Fusion bearing, “you are also holding all the electronics.”

Synchrony was founded in 1993 and most recently expanded into its current Roanoke County location in 2007.

Read the New York Times article Here>>>

ROANOKE, VIRGINIA PLANT LEAD THE WAY FOR COMPANY TO ACHIEVE GREEN-STAR STATUS

2010-01-07T16:23:00.002-05:00

Boxley has met its goal of achieving the prestigious Green-Star Certification by the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association (NRMCA) in 2009 at all eight of our concrete plants.

The NRMCA Green-Star program recognizes Ready Mixed companies who maintain Environmental Management Systems that aid in reducing, if not eliminating, negative environmental impacts resulting from operations.

Of the more than 5,000 concrete plants in the U.S., only 60 have achieved Green-Star status. Boxley plants are the only plants in Virginia and West Virginia to achieve Green-Star Certification.

Boxley's Roanoke Plant was the first to achieve Green-Star status in Roanoke, Virginia and the 11^th in the U.S. Boxley's Welch Plant was the first in West Virginia and the 56^th in the U.S.

The Green-Star program requires participation by all employees. From recycling efforts and solid waste reduction to water and energy conservation to reduction of noise, dust and improving the aesthetics of the company sites thus resulting in positive impacts on the communities Boxley serves.

Some examples of Boxley's environmental practices include:

Reduced waste concrete by 20% by forming concrete barrier blocks with the waste concrete. It would have taken 22 dump truck loads to dispose of this waste at a landfill. Recycling reduced use of landfill, vehicle emissions and furl burned.
Utilized 100% recycled water for mixer drum rinse and washout (saved approximately 800,000 gallons of water annually).
Improve site aesthetics through tree plantings and landscaping.
Replaced 100% of indoor lighting with high efficiency bulbs and turned off computers and lighting at the end of each day. This type of lighting uses 75% less energy and lasts about 10 times longer than an incandescent bulb.
Installed a suggestion box to collect employee ideas related to continual environmental improvement.
Provided mugs to employees to reduce the amount of Styrofoam cups being used. Based on annual usage at the Roanoke plant, this prevents 5,750 non-recyclable cups from going to a landfill per year.
Implemented a recycling program for mixed paper, aluminum and plastics.
Implemented recycling program for oil, tires, and metals.

9TH BEST PLACE FOR JOBS, ROANOKE, VA- CNNMONEY.COM

2010-01-07T16:23:00.001-05:00

Roanoke County, Va.

Towns include: Cave Spring
Best Places to Live rank: 89
Unemployment rate: 5.6%

Don't underestimate this popular retirement community nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Thanks to the Carilion Health Clinic, a number of nursing facilities and a large hospital, job opportunities are thriving.

"It doesn't matter if it's a boom or bust time," said economic development specialist Joe Zielinski. "People come here for the jobs."

Even outside the health care arena, banking, defense contractors and insurance companies provide thousands of additional jobs for working families. Some of the area's top employers include Wachovia, Allstate Insurance and ITT Night Vision.

GOT COW? A UNIQUE TWIST ON FRESH MILK

2010-01-07T16:22:00.001-05:00

A Franklin County farm is offering a unique way to get fresh milk – rent a cow.

For $29 a month, participants in a herd-share program have access to one gallon of fresh milk a week at Tender Grass Farm. The grass-fed and pasture-raised cows at this organic farm produce just 1.5 gallons of milk per day compared to 9.5 gallons at typical dairy farms using hormones and antibiotics.

Tender Grass, one of several small, vibrant family farms in the Roanoke Region, also sells beef, pork and poultry products, including some 60 cuts of meat, eight types of raw cheese, and eggs.

Owner Brian Bowen founded the 100-acre Tender Grass Farm following an insurance and financial planning career in Arizona. The family practices what’s called management intensive grazing, where cattle are moved to new pastures to mimic the way herbivores act in nature.

THE SMART WAY INTRODUCES LARGER BUSES BETWEEN ROANOKE AND BLACKSBURG

2009-12-17T11:58:00.002-05:00

Commuting between the Roanoke and New River Valleys is getting smarter. In a big way.

The Smart Way, a regional public transportation service operated by Valley Metro, on December 17 introduced the first of its four new, larger 57-seat motor coaches manufactured by Motor Coach Industries (MCI) that will replace the current fleet of 32-seat buses traveling between Roanoke, Christiansburg and Blacksburg.

The new, 45-foot-long coaches feature more space, additional luggage capacity, overhead luggage bins, wireless Internet access, six 10-inch video monitors and LED lighting. There’s even a wheel chair lift and bike rack on each bus.

Smart Way ridership is up 6.2 percent this year, and officials believe the new buses will help drive additional demand. Through October, 48,927 commuters have traveled the Smart Way this year – an average of nearly 5,000 per month. Since Smart Way began service in 2004, the number of commuters is up almost 150 percent.

Four buses are joining the Smart Way fleet. Each costs $490,000, paid for through federal, state and local sources. The coaches go into service January 4.

The Smart Way links the Roanoke Region and the New River Valley for a current fare of only $3 each way. It begins service at Campbell Court in downtown Roanoke, with stops at Hotel Roanoke, Roanoke Regional Airport, two park-and-ride lots along Interstate-81 at exits 140 and 118A, the Christiansburg K-mart, the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center, Main Street in downtown Blacksburg and Squires Student Center on the Virginia Tech campus. Maps, schedules and additional information are available at www.smartwaybus.com.

Make sure to check out our Fan Page.

Also Visit us Here>>>

GOVERNOR KAINE ANNOUNCES NEW INNOVATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP INVESTMENT AUTHORITY AND NEW BOARD OF DIRECTORS

2009-12-11T08:38:00.005-05:00

RICHMOND – Governor Timothy M. Kaine today announced the formation of the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Investment Authority (IEIA). Governor Kaine also announced the appointment of members of the Board of Directors to the IEIA.

“This legislation streamlines government, saves resources and mandates the development of a consistent, long-term plan for identifying research priorities,” Governor Kaine said. “That will in turn foster economic development opportunities in the Commonwealth and encourage cooperation between the public and private sector in research and development-related initiatives.”

Created by the General Assembly and signed into law earlier this year by Governor Kaine, the new Authority continues the work of the Innovative Technology Authority, which was established in 1984. The legislation consolidated two existing entities with research and development (R&D)-related responsibilities – the ITA and the Virginia Research and Technology Advisory Commission – into a single authority — the IEIA. The new Authority continues the work of the Innovative Technology Authority, with the added duty to create a strategic R&D roadmap for the Commonwealth.

“The new Authority and its Board will help accelerate the Center for Innovative Technology (CIT)’s expanded role in new company formation and strategic development of research and innovation priorities,” said Leonard M. Pomata, Secretary of Technology. “It will help all regions of the Commonwealth achieve solid footing in the growing innovation economy.”

The thirteen-member Board, appointed jointly by the Governor and General Assembly, consists of:

The Honorable Leonard M. Pomata, Secretary of Technology, Commonwealth of Virginia*

Daniel Bannister, President, Bannister Enterprises*

Ted Cahall, Chief Technology Officer, AOL, LLC

Dr. Ray O. Johnson, Sr. Vice President & CTO, Lockheed Martin Corporation

Dr. Lydia W. Thomas, Board of Trustees of The George Washington University and retired President and CEO, Noblis, Inc.

Hooks Johnston, General Partner, Valhalla Partners

Suzanne H. King, Partner, New Enterprise Associates*

Wayne Hunter, Managing Partner, Harbert Venture Partners

Eric Hansen, Chairman, CEO/President, Co-founder, Innovative Wireless Technologies Inc.

Rick Kapani, Managing Partner, Vision360 Solutions*

Dr. Charles W. Steger, President, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University*

Dr. Linwood H. Rose, President, James Madison University

Dr. Alan G. Merten, President, George Mason University

Originally, CIT focused on enhancing the research and technology transfer activities of Virginia universities. Having accomplished that mission, today CIT is focused on creating new technologies, entrepreneurs and technology companies that enhance the Commonwealth’s global competitiveness. Its operating structure consists of four service lines: CIT Entrepreneur, CIT Connect, CIT R&D and CIT Broadband.

In addition, CIT is working with the General Assembly and the Commonwealth’s 10 Technology Councils to create the Commonwealth Innovation Index, a long-term innovation assessment tool that is creating both a road map to the innovation economy, while providing elected officials and business leaders with valuable guidance and expertise so that they can make targeted and wise investments that benefits all regions of the Commonwealth.

* denotes returning Board members

# # #

Check Out Roanoke.org or Virginia.org for more info

Share

2009-12-10T09:25:00.002-05:00

BALLYHACK GOLF CLUB HAS BEEN RANKED #3 ON GOLF MAGAZINES BEST NEW COURSES IN AMERICA FOR 2009

December 10, 2009

1. Red Ledges Golf Club
Heber City, Utah
7,653 yards, par 72
redledges.com

The 200th U.S. course from Jack Nicklaus is another winner. Meandering through Utah's signature red rock landforms 45 minutes southeast of Salt Lake City, Red Ledges combines typical Nicklaus hallmarks (visual intimidation, supreme challenge) with atypical touches (jagged-edge bunkers, a blind shot here and there, carom-inducing contours and greens laced with false fronts).

Toss in stunning views of Mt. Timpanogos and the Heber Valley — most memorably from the 203-yard par-3 9th — and you've got a ledge that's worth the climb.

2. Wilderness Club
Eureka, Mont.
7,207 yards, par 72
thewildernessclub.com
Designers: Nick Faldo/Schmidt-Curley

3. Ballyhack Golf Club
Roanoke, Viriginia (VA).
7,294 yards, par 72
ballyhackgolfclub.com
Designer: Lester George
17th Hole at Ballyhack
Read more Here>>>

Make Sure to Check us out Here>>>

Share

NOT TOO LATE FOR FALL CANOEING, KAYAKING AND FISHING

2009-12-08T09:49:00.000-05:00

It’s still warm enough in the Roanoke Region for one last paddle.

The Jackson River and Cowpasture Rivers converge in northern Botetourt County to form the James River. These headwaters, called the Upper James, provide some of the finest canoeing, Kayaking and freshwater fishing in Virginia. A 16-mile stretch of the James River between Eagle Rock and Springwood is the only part of the James River that has been designated a Virginia Scenic River.

The James is renowned for its smallmouth fishing, and the 45-mile stretch that winds its way through Botetourt County is becoming one of the most popular muskie sections of water in the state. The river also offers excellent rock bass, bream and catfish fishing.

It’s easy to catch a ride on the river to see the last of the fall colors. For a list of outfitters, Click Here.

Also check out other like stories Here>>>

2009-12-01T11:54:00.003-05:00

ROANOKE'S PROFILE IS RISING- VIRGINIA BUSINESS

December 1, 2009

Once known as a railroad town, Roanoke is gaining mileage these days as a competitive business location. With a vibrant arts scene, new medical school and the continuing redevelopment of its downtown, the profile of this mountain community is rising.

In fact, the Roanoke region landed a national accolade in October. It was this year’s top pick from among 250 metropolitan statistical areas by Business Facilities, a national publication for site selectors and economic development. The magazine’s editors extolled the area’s low unemployment (7.1 percent compared to a national rate of 10.2 percent), rising home prices and diversifying economy as proof that it’s “positively pointing in the right direction.”

That kind of exposure is a big plus in the marketing of the region’s commercial real estate market. As Virginia’s fourth largest metropolitan area, the Roanoke region came through the recession pretty well. “Roanoke is insulated, to some degree, from the vast swings the economy sees,” says Bob Copty, a senior vice president in Thalhimer’s Roanoke office. While the region experienced some closings, its core industries of health care, automotive components and advanced manufacturing remained intact.

The region’s only Fortune 500 company, Advance Auto Parts Inc., continues to invest in the area. It plans to spend more than $4 million expanding its corporate headquarters at Crossroads Corporate Business Center in Roanoke. The move will allow the company to consolidate two locations into one, with 900 employees expected to work eventually out of the new office.

Overall, Copty describes demand for market office space as “surprisingly robust.” The region had a vacancy rate of 11.3 percent by the end of the third quarter, according to Thalhimer’s market report, well below the national rate of 13 percent. One success story can be found in the neighboring New River Valley, home to Virginia Tech and its Corporate Research Center (CRC).

As businesses spin out from research enterprises in the park, the area is benefiting, says Jeanne Stosser, president and CEO of GMC Leasing and owner of SAS builders. “It’s a great feeder spot,” she says.

The CRC includes 27 buildings with 140 tenants and 2,200 employees. It plans to roughly double its size with the help of a $1.9 million federal grant, which will cover much of the infrastructure costs. Research and businesses there now focus mostly on high-tech fields such as biotechnology, engineering and design through partnerships with Virginia Tech, a top 50 research university.

Northrop Grumman, the country’s second largest defense contractor, opened an office in October and already is talking about a second one. It plans to work with the university’s college of engineering on research contracts, nuclear engineering and alternative energy.

Not doing as well is the area’s industrial market. Some automotive related businesses, such as Johnson Controls and JTEKT of Botetourt County, have announced closings due to a slowdown in the industry. By the third quarter, overall vacancy in the industrial/flex market hit nearly 15 percent, according to the Thalhimer report. Buffering that spike was the recent opening of LiteSteel Technologies’ new North American plant in Botetourt. The Australian company built a $30 million facility that eventually will employ 55 people.

Read the rest of the article Here>>>

Make sure to check out the Roanoke Region of Virginia

ROANOKE, VIRGINIA IN THE LA TIMES!

2009-11-30T11:11:00.001-05:00

From LA Times.com:

If you go

THE BEST WAY

From LAX, connecting service (change of planes) is available on US Airways, Delta, United and Northwest. Restricted round-trip fares begin at $288.

Roanoke is an easy drive from several major Southern travel destinations, including Charlotte, N.C., and Richmond, Va. It's about a four-hour drive from Washington, D.C.

WHERE TO EAT

Table 50, 309 Market St., Roanoke; (540) 904-2350, www.table50roanoke.com. Modern bistro with crab bisque ($7), house-ground beef burgers and pulled pork sandwiches ($12 to $13), and grilled fish and meats ($22 to $28). Open Tuesdays through Saturdays, 11:30 a.m. until late night.

Texas Tavern, 114 W. Church Ave.; (540) 342-4825, www.texastavern-inc.com. The very limited menu includes $2.20 "cheesy Westerns" (grilled cheeseburgers topped with fried egg) and $1.60 bowls of chili. Open seven days a week, 24 hours a day (closed Dec. 25).

Roanoke Weiner Stand, 25 Campbell Ave. S.E.; (540) 342-6932. Walk-up counter known for its hot dogs "all the way" (mustard, chopped onions and chili) and inexpensive beers, all less than $2 each.

Regency Dining Room, Hotel Roanoke, 110 Shenandoah Ave.; (540) 985-5900, www.hotelp.Traditional Virginia peanut soup and spoon bread as well as contemporary Southern cuisine. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, and Sunday brunch. Dinner entrees, $20 to $32.

WHAT TO DO

Taubman Museum of Art, 110 Salem Ave. S.E.; (540) 342-5760, www.taubmanmuseum.org. Permanent collection features 19th and 20th century American art, plus a variety of traveling exhibitions. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays (Thursdays until 7 p.m.), and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. Closed major holidays. $10.50 general admission, $9 seniors, $8.50 students, $5.50 children ages 4 to 12, children 3 and under free.

Virginia Museum of Transportation, 303 Norfolk Ave. S.W.; (540) 342-5670, www.vmt.org. Norfolk & Western steam locomotives, rail cars and more. Admission: $8 for adults; $7, seniors; $6, children ages 3 to 11; children under 3 free. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays. Closed major holidays.

Historic Roanoke City Market, downtown square, www.downtownroanoke.org/market.htm. Four dozen rotating vendors. Open seven days a week, closed Christmas and New Year's.

Market Street Shops, hours and stores vary, see www.downtownroanoke.org/shopping.htm for a list of stores, including Chocolatepaper, http://www.chocolatepaperroanoke.com/

WHERE TO STAY

Hotel Roanoke, 110 Shenandoah Ave.; (540) 985-5900, www.hotelroanoke.com. Special discount packages include tickets to the Taubman Museum of Art and Virginia Museum of Transportation. See website for details. Rates from $156.

Read the article on LA Times.com

LEARN MORE HERE

Roanoke.org

HIDDEN VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE, RHODES SCHOLARSHIP WINNER!

2009-11-24T16:38:00.001-05:00

At some point, Jordan Anderson might be able to gauge the response to his selection as a Rhodes Scholarship winner.

That was a little difficult Saturday.

Well-wishers trying to get in touch with Anderson by cellphone were quickly shifted to voice mail.

With all of the other issues spinning inside his head, Anderson had neglected to take his phone charger to Birmingham, Ala.

"I thought I had it charged," said Anderson, an Auburn senior from Roanoke.

"Maybe the battery charge runs down in proportion to the calls you're getting."

At least Anderson didn't have to worry about his phone interrupting a 20-minute interview with committee members, the final step before Anderson learned of his selection around 4 p.m. Central time.

"Honestly, I was very surprised that I won," said Anderson, who has a 3.91 grade-point average at Auburn, where he is a co-captain of the men's swimming team.

Anderson, who will have a two-year scholarship at Oxford University in England, is the first Rhodes Scholar from Auburn in more than 20 years and the first from the Roanoke Valley since Salem's Brad Braxton in 1991.

Read the rest of the story at Roanoke.com>>>

OLD FIREHOUSE CONTINUES REDEVELOPMENT TREND

2009-11-19T11:14:00.002-05:00

The rapid pace of redevelopment in Roanoke, Virginia continues with a 100-year-old firehouse that’s been renovated to house an architecture firm.

Interactive Design Group has preserved and refurbished the historic two-story brick Firehouse No. 3 – once filled with horse-drawn fire trucks – into a high-tech office. You can read more here.

Interactive Design meshes architecture and web design to create commercial and residential buildings, floor plans and interactive online applications. Clients include Arlington National Cemetery, the U.S. Air Force and the U.S. Navy.

Jared Soares
The historic firehouse joins the Cotton Mill Lofts, The Hancock apartments, and the Warehouse Row Business Center among several preservation projects transforming the west end of downtown Roanoke.

And more are on the way. The historic Patrick Henry Hotel is being renovated to create commercial and residential mixed-use space, including office, retail, restaurant and event space while maintaining the historic. It will be among the region’s largest-ever redevelopment projects when completed in May 2011.

Roanoke Region of Virginia

LOOKING FOR SOMEONE TO SELL THE ROANOKE REGION.

2009-11-18T08:18:00.000-05:00

Make it your career to help create jobs in the Roanoke Region of Virginia. The Roanoke Regional Partnership is looking for someone passionate about making a difference who can promote and sell the Roanoke area as a business location.

Dream job for a self-motivated consensus builder who can juggle tasks, focus on customer service, and quickly learn about different kinds of businesses. Check out the business development manager position description and qualifications Here>>>.

GREEN ROOF TO CAP CULTURAL CENTER

2009-11-09T11:30:00.000-05:00

The latest plan for a green roof in the Roanoke Region in downtown Roanoke, VA is the upcoming renovation of Center in the Square. The popular hub for science and the arts is being transformed with multilevel rooftop gardens and plant-covered walls.

Center in the Square draws some 400,000 visitors annually to visit the Historical Society of Western Virginia, Mill Mountain Theatre and Science Museum of Virginia. It’s also home to the Arts Council of the Blue Ridge.

Two local companies, Advance Auto Parts and Delta Dental, are purchasing tax credits to pay for the bulk of the $27 million project, with another $9 million coming from a community campaign.

Proposed changes to the 1983 building include a skylight, butterfly habitat, 5,500-gallon coral reef aquarium and high-tech interactive games in a new, larger atrium. Work is expected to be completed in 2012.

In addition to the physical changes, the renovated center will house the Harrison Museum of African-American Culture.

For a preview of the renovation, please see this Video.

NEW PLAYHOUSE IGNITING CREATIVITY

2009-11-09T11:29:00.002-05:00

Studio Roanoke is downtown Roanoke’s newest theatre – a bare-bones, black-box space billed as a “theatre without compromise.”

Founded by playwright Kenley Smith, the alternative playhouse supports artistic development through educational programs, working with the arts community “to make Roanoke a nationally recognized ignition point for new play development.”

Studio Roanoke features:

A poetry slam that lets poets compete for a cash prize.
No Shame Theatre to give a voice to amateur playwrights, actors and musicians.
Free lunchbox readings for new plays.
Acoustic Lounge, featuring 15-minute sets by local musicians and songwriters, culminating with a free-form jam session and mixer with the audience.
Monthly theatrical productions with Hollins University students and local actors.

LITESTEEL TECHNOLOGIES OFFICIALLY OPENS PLANT

2009-11-09T11:29:00.001-05:00

TROUTVILLE, VA – LiteSteel Technologies America LLC on October 29 officially opened its new North American plant. The Roanoke Region plant began production several months ago and is moving toward full production of its signature LiteSteelTM beam (LSB®), a lightweight steel beam engineered for residential and light commercial construction projects.

The $30 million facility currently employs 23 and eventually will bring 55 jobs to the Roanoke Region. LiteSteel chose the region for its excellent logistics, proximity to selected markets, outstanding state, county and regional support and availability of a facility for its specialized production process.

“”We are pleased to contribute to the local economy and source services and products locally, and are determined to be a good neighbor and active member of the community,” said Scott Morling, senior vice president – general manager for LiteSteel Technologies America.

LiteSteel announced the Botetourt County location in November 2006. The Australian-based company began production of LSB in 2004, following five years of research and development on the product. LSB is a patented, cold-formed, lightweight steel structural beam that combines the strength of steel, but with the installation ease

normally associated with wood products. Ideal for basement beams, garage beams, long-spam headers, roof and ridge beams, and floor and deck supports, LSB has been used in Australia for the past four years in thousands of projects.

The Roanoke Region facility is producing LSB in 12 different sizes, ranging in nominal beam depth from eight to 14 inches. LSB’s patented manufacturing process gives it a unique profile with a flat, thin web and two fully welded hollow flanges for maximum structural performance in terms of load carrying capacity, bending moment and deflection from the amount of steel employed.

“We’re gratified that LiteSteel Technologies has chosen the Roanoke Region for this plant and share in the company’s pride as its products begin to transform the way America builds,” said Beth Doughty, executive director of the Roanoke Regional Partnership.

LiteSteel has been assisted since its announcement by the Partnership, Botetourt County and the Commonwealth of Virginia. For more information about LiteSteel, Click Here.

The Roanoke Regional Partnership was founded in 1983 as a regional economic development organization for the greater Roanoke area that includes Alleghany, Botetourt, Franklin and Roanoke counties, the cities of Roanoke and Salem and the Town of Vinton. The organization has been involved in business locations and expansions that have created more than 13,600 jobs and $1.3 billion in investment in real estate and equipment. To learn more, please visit www.roanoke.org.

THE PATRICK HENRY A LANDMARK MOMENT FOR ROANOKE

2009-10-29T09:00:00.003-04:00

October 28, 2009 – Local real-estate developer, Ed Walker announces today, his purchase of The Patrick Henry building located at 617 Jefferson Street in downtown Roanoke, VA. "The goal is to take a building that has become a community weakness and turn it into a community strength," says Walker.

A local development team will join Walker, who plans to completely renovate and refit The Patrick Henry into a spectacular commercial and residential mixed-use space featuring office, retail, restaurant and event space. The success of The Patrick Henry’s redevelopment will rely on the inspired commitment of five to six flagship businesses who choose to occupy some of the most distinctive and well-appointed commercial spaces in the Commonwealth of Virginia. In addition, plans include areas for dining and shopping, all of which will come together to create an exciting, and energized atmosphere in downtown.

Commercial opportunities will include:

Professional offices from 2, 500 to 10,000 sq. ft.
Coffee shop
Upscale restaurant & bar
Retail spaces from 1,500 to 3,000 sq. ft.
Document storage of 22,000 sq. ft.

“The Patrick Henry will be at the forefront of the city’s continued revitalization and is poised to begin a new era of service to the region,” says Walker. “There is no better moment than right now for this restoration to succeed.”

Many of the items currently housed in the building are of historical significance and will be used in the renovation, however a substantial amount of furniture, fixtures, and equipment will be sold to the public in a multi-day sale in late 2009. After the public disposition sale, the remaining items will be sold at auction.

The projected completion date of The Patrick Henry is May of 2011.

Roanoke Region of Virginia

ROANOKE REGION LAUDED BY NATIONAL MAGAZINE

2009-10-29T09:00:00.001-04:00

-Area cited as favorite location due to low unemployment, steady home prices, diversifying economy and quality of life-

ROANOKE, Va. (October 28, 2009) – The Roanoke Region has been named the favorite location by editors of Business Facilities, a national publication for site selectors and economic development officials.

In its October cover story, the 43,000-circulation journal cited the region’s low unemployment, rising home prices, diversifying economy and quality of life.

“The Roanoke Region jumped to the top of the list because, in a time of flat-lining economic indicators, every arrow … is pointing in the right direction,” the magazine wrote. “Roanoke, VA also stands out because it is successfully diversifying its economic base while maintaining a charming, comfortable quality of life that glows with old-fashioned hospitality.”

The article cites the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine and businesses such as LiteSteel Technologies, TMEIC GE and Synchrony for leading the region’s economic transformation.

A digital version of the magazine, with the complete story, can be viewed Here.

It was the second time this year the Roanoke Region was prominently featured in a national magazine. The region also has been profiled in US Airways magazine for Roanoke, VA as well as The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Southern Living and other publications.

ABOUT THE ROANOKE REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP

The Roanoke Regional Partnership was founded in 1983 as a regional economic development organization for the greater Roanoke area that includes Alleghany, Botetourt, Franklin and Roanoke counties plus the cities of Roanoke and Salem and the town of Vinton. Its program of work includes image building, asset development, and business recruitment. The Partnership has been involved in business locations and expansions that have created more than 13,600 jobs and $1.3 billion in investment in real estate and equipment. To learn more, please visit www.Roanoke.org.

EMPIRE FOODS BREAKS GROUND FOR NEW PLANT

2009-10-29T08:59:00.000-04:00

Right now it’s just a graded site surrounded by brilliant fall colors in the Franklin County/Rocky Mount Industrial Park. But by next June the aroma of fresh-baked cookies and cakes will float over the new facility where 84 people will work.

TSG-Empire Foods broke ground October 26 for its new 45,000-square-foot, $3 million state-of-the-art food and baked good production center. The 12-year-old bakery division had outgrown its old facility and, according to President & CEO Len Marek, is looking forward to growing. “The new Franklin County /Rocky Mount facility will provide TSG-Empire Foods with the opportunity to grow our very successful cake and bakery business into new markets and potentially new product offerings.”

Local officials welcomed TSG-Empire. “Our intent with economic development is to provide a broad diversity of industries that offer good wages for employees within our community,” said Charles Wagner, chairman of the Franklin County Board of Supervisors. “It’s always great to see dirt moving and construction equipment in one of our business parks.”

“Successful recruitment of new employment opportunities at TSG-Empire Foods for our residents in this challenging economic market is evidence that Franklin County and Rocky Mount remain an excellent place to do business,” said Steve Angle, Mayor of Rocky Mount.

About The Roanoke Regional Partnership

LIVING ROOF COOLS NEW CLINIC BUILDINGS

October 26, 2009

The Roanoke Region’s latest outpatient medical clinic features a giant cooling system – 25,000 square feet of sedum plants on the roof.

As Carilion Clinic transforms from primarily a hospital-based provider to a clinic model similar to the Mayo Clinic, the new five-story building provides offices for a host of specialists located near each other and the latest diagnostic equipment.

Carilion is in the process of applying for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification by the U.S. Green Building Council and expects that status to be granted within the next year.

The clinic was built on previously developed land, reducing the need to clear new space. Overall, the building is designed to use between 18 and 28 percent less energy than similar structures.

In addition to the “green” roof, the clinic features:

Easy access to a downtown trolley network and greenways for walking or biking.
Limited exterior lighting.
Use of plants that don’t need irrigation.
Low-flow faucets and toilets.
No CFC-based refrigerants used for air-conditioning.
Reduced air contaminants with low- or zero-volatile organic compounds.
Locally manufactured construction material.
Recycled steel, concrete, doors and more for construction.
Use of green cleaning products.

Roanoke Region of Virginia

The Wall Street Journal features Roanoke Region as a “Mountain Haven”

2009-10-19T11:24:00.000-04:00

In Roanoke, Va., newcomers find striking vistas, a vibrant arts scene and a tranquil lifestyle

Tranquility in traffic? If you daydream in Roanoke, Va., when a stop light turns green, the drivers behind you will probably wait politely, without honking.

"They're just very nice small-town people," says Jerry Schleifer, age 82, who settled in Roanoke in 2004. Mr. Schleifer retired in 1992, after selling the downtown Miami camera shop he owned for 42 years. He first retreated to Greenville, S.C., and later Denver.

Greenville proved too rustic for his tastes, and the high altitude of the Rocky Mountains he hiked near Denver left him breathing too hard for comfort.

Thus Mr. Schleifer typifies the many retirees in the Roanoke area who are well-traveled, have considered and sometimes tried other options, but settled on this leafy haven in southwest Virginia. The natural setting is the most obvious attraction. Nestled against the Blue Ridge Mountains (whose peaks generally rise to about one-quarter the height of Colorado's 14,000-footers), Roanoke offers striking vistas, lakes and rivers that stretch for dozens of miles. It also has a moderate climate. (Yes, winter temperatures can be disagreeably cold, but heavy snow and ice storms are rare.)

Although the population is about 92,000 within the city limits, the metropolitan area totals more than three times that number—enough to support ballet, opera and a symphony orchestra. Last November saw the opening of the 75,000-square-foot Taubman Museum of Art, designed by Los Angeles architect Randall Stout with a contemporary exterior of jagged lines that contrast dramatically with Roanoke's more traditional architecture. (That said, the city's theater group closed earlier this year amid mounting debt.)

'A Quality of Life'

Artistic refinement wasn't all that attracted John and Kathy Merkwan, who retired in 2005 to a neighborhood in southwest Roanoke where five-bedroom colonial-style homes like theirs sell for about $380,000. Says Mrs. Merkwan, "I remember we walked around downtown, where the farmers market is right at the city center. It reminded us of Europe," where the couple had been stationed at times when John was a career Army officer. "There's a quality of life that's special. It's the kind of place where friends would want to come visit us, and we could show them lots to do."

For instance, Mr. Merkwan regularly treks the Appalachian Trail, where 113 miles close by are maintained by the Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club. To kick back, the Merkwans are devotees of Star City Brewers Guild, a group of amateur beer makers who bottle their own concoctions and compete.

The beer club is named for Roanoke's sparkling symbol, an 88½ -foot-tall neon-illuminated star sitting atop Mill Mountain, which overlooks the city. Built in 1949 by merchants as a kickoff to the holiday shopping season, the red, white and blue star became so popular with residents that it now brightens the night year-round.

Though Roanoke's retiree population is growing, civic leaders aren't keen about being identified with the older demographic. In fact, they're focused on attracting "young professionals" and hoping to reverse a near decade-long slide in the area's population of 18- to 34-year-olds.
Not that Roanoke doesn't welcome older adults, says Beth Doughty, executive director of the Roanoke Regional Partnership, supported by a four-county constituency. But she asserts that the area's reputation as a retirement spot sometimes gets in the way of local officials' efforts at economic-development outreach.

"Heck, sometimes it takes me three times to get people" focused on precisely which Roanoke she represents, says Mrs. Doughty. "They say, 'Isn't Roanoke the place where those people disappeared that time?' " (No, that was the lost colony of Roanoke on the North Carolina coast.) " 'Or Roanoke Rapids?' " (That didn't disappear, but it's also in North Carolina.)

Lots of Newcomers

If Roanoke could only stay a secret, that would please Andy and Frances Pratt, who retired to the edge of Smith Mountain Lake in 2005, after his 30-year Air Force career. "The only negative is the volume of newcomers headed this way," says Mrs. Pratt.

Although the lake, a 45-minute drive from downtown, has a 500-mile shoreline, the water is packed with pleasure boats in the summer. "On big weekends, the people who live here just sort of stay in the house because of the crowds," she says. The saving grace, according to Mr. Pratt: "On typical weekdays, the lake is relatively empty."

Roanoke residents point to several other shortcomings. Roanoke Regional Airport has 54 daily flights to nine major hub cities. But airport officials have been frustrated for years in trying to attract more carriers than the four affiliates of major airlines that now serve the area.
"We continually work with both our existing and potential carriers to attempt to get more cities, more frequencies and more seats," says Sherry Wallace, Roanoke Regional's manager of marketing and air-service development.

Getting Away

For warm-weather getaways, Allegiant Air offers nonstop runs to Orlando/Sanford and St. Petersburg/Clearwater, both in Florida. But the prospect that the Las Vegas-based airline, a unit of Allegiant Travel Co., would add flights between its home city and Roanoke shows no sign of becoming reality.

Virginia, for its part, is hardly a tax haven. There's a state income tax (and military pensions aren't exempt, as they are in many states), as well as a state sales and "use" tax (which amounts to about 5%, when combined with local sales taxes).

Shopping in Roanoke, depending on your tastes, can be hit or miss. Richmond, about a 2½-hour drive to the northeast, is a popular destination for some people who enjoy a Nordstrom or Neiman Marcus.

That said, Roanoke is big enough to offer such popular chains as Macy's and two Barnes & Noble locations. More important to some are the area's plentiful independent boutiques, from clothiers to art galleries.

"You can find lots of little places that aren't cookie-cutter," says Lynne Hines, who retired near Roanoke in 2003 with her husband, Ed, a former executive at Lucent Technologies. For example, handbags designed at Claire v., an accessory shop downtown, have appeared on the hit television show "Desperate Housewives."

Mr. and Mrs. Hines are living in their 11th house, having been based in such cities as Atlanta, Chicago, and Columbus, Ohio. The comparative cost of living in Roanoke is a big plus, says Mr. Hines. "Our property taxes in Columbus were twice as high as here, on a house half the size of the one we have now."

Indeed, the Roanoke area's cost of living is nearly 10% below the national benchmark as calculated by Moody's Investors Service. For those who are interested in becoming entrepreneurs in retirement, the cost of operating a business in the Roanoke region is 86% of the national norm, according to Moody's.

Appealing Amenities

Most transplants say the city's amenities far outweigh any drawbacks. The former include more than 20 miles of urban riverfront paths for easy biking and walking. The city's core also displays a vast collection of historic locomotives and train cars at the Virginia Museum of Transportation. Train buffs can touch these treasures; the museum is often looking for volunteers to wash the huge antiques, from steam engine to caboose.

Attractions within an hour's drive or so include Jefferson National Forest, Dixie Caverns and the Natural Bridge, a majestic 215-foot-tall stone portal formed over millions of years and once owned by Thomas Jefferson.

The bridge, which draws about 200,000 tourists a year, was put up for sale in 2007 at an asking price of $32 million. The price included 1,400 wooded acres, which would have left plenty of distance between the buyer and the gift shop and 154-room hotel. The attraction has since been taken off the market.

But plenty of peace and quiet remain around Roanoke, even at stop lights.

By Robert Johnson Printed in The Wall Street Journal, page R7

Join us on Facebook

VA Tech stays in top 50 for research expenditures

2009-10-15T11:00:00.000-04:00

The National Science Foundation ranked Virginia Tech 46th out of 679 universities for research expenditures in 2008. The university reported $373.3 million in spending for the last fiscal year.

Though spending was up in 2008 over 2007 ($366.9 million), Tech’s ranking fell from 42nd. “While our overall growth was below our goals, the areas that account for competitive research awards continue to grow,” said Robert Walters, vice president for research. “We increased our external federal funding by more than five percent and our industry funding by almost 20 percent. In the current economy, those numbers are encouraging. That’s a testament to the dedication of the Virginia Tech faculty.”

NSF is the federal agency charged by Congress to report annually on economic research in the United States.

Read more about the story Here

Nobel Prize-Level Innovation Happens Here

2009-10-08T16:55:00.003-04:00

One of the three American winners of the Nobel Prize in physics spent the early years of his career at ITT Electro-Optical Products (now ITT Night Vision) in Roanoke County.

Dr. Charles Kao, won half the $1.4 million prize for “discovering how to transmit light signals long distances through hair-thin glass fibers,” according to The Roanoke Times. That discovery led to the high-speed fiber optic networks we take for granted today. (The other half of the prize goes to Willard Boyles and George Smith for inventing a sensor that turns light into electric signals.)

ITT recruited Dr. Kao from the Chinese University in Hong Kong in the mid-1970s to explore sending phone calls over fiber-optic lines. Dr. Kao had developed the concept and ITT gave him the chance to pursue it.

Local Firm Chosen to Build Green Diesel Product

2009-10-08T16:55:00.002-04:00

Salem-based Salem Preferred Partners, a provider of complex assembly services, has been selected by Innovative Hydrogen Solutions, Inc. as the exclusive manufacturer for its new Hydrogen Injection System (i-phi).

The module for diesel-powered vehicles produces a mixture of hydrogen and oxygen gases which improve the combustion process, increase fuel economy and reduce pollution.

“This is an important agreement for our company, and i-phi products that we’ve built are already being used successfully on the road by major trucking companies,” said Jerry Callahan, CEO of Salem Preferred Partners. “We stand by the quality of all of the products that we build, and we are looking forward to a long relationship as IHS’s manufacturing partner for their revolutionary product.”

SPP provides material handling, line sequencing, component assembly and flexible production line sequencing. The company located in the Roanoke Region in 1994.

Read the rest of the story at industryweek.com

Is a Franchise for You?

2009-10-08T16:53:00.000-04:00

RE-CREATING LAND FOR RECREATION

2009-10-08T16:52:00.002-04:00

A new “primitive campground” is in the works to take advantage of a new blueway along the James River in Botetourt County.

The Bottom Arcadia Campground – tents only, no RVs, electrical hookups or hot water – is part of Troy and Tysha Breeden’s dream to keep their scenic farmland property beautiful and pristine.

The project takes advantage of a county plan to turn a 45-mile stretch of the James River into the Upper James River Blueway Trail. The blueway plan links the six boat ramps along the county’s stretch of the river into one long trail for canoeists, kayakers and tubers.

The Breedens foresee a camping season from April to October each year, with up to 150 people – including church groups, Boy Scouts and groups of children with disabilities – using the campground daily.

25 Best Places to Retire, Roanoke comes in at #16

2009-09-14T12:32:00.001-04:00

Roanoke, VA:

Population: 92,600
% over 50: 35%
Typical 3-bedroom home: $190,000
State income tax: 5.75%*

The Appalachian Trail comes through the city, and the region is home to a collection of lakes and rivers. Roanoke's Carvins Cove Natural Reserve, the second-largest municipal park in the U.S., offers more than 12,000 acres of hiking, biking and horseback riding. Its 800-acre lake caters to boaters and anglers.

Roanoke has six greenways that link the city's rivers, mountains and scenic areas to a vibrant, walkable downtown. The downtown area boasts a daily farmer's market and after the sun sets, the nightlife scene beckons empty nesters with first-rate restaurants and nightclubs.

Roanoke residents boast about the city's four seasons, although the winter is milder than in other parts of the country. Leaf peepers flock to the Blue Ridge Parkway once autumn hits. Roanoke just announced it will host the first-ever Blue Ridge Marathon on the parkway in April 2010.

Check out the other best places to live here

Center in the Square unveils renovation plans

2009-09-11T09:02:00.005-04:00

--Multilevel rooftop gardens with plant-covered walls, a skylight installation, a butterfly habitat, a 5,500-gallon coral reef aquarium, high-tech interactive games in a new, larger atrium -- these are just some of the details included in the plans revealed Thursday for Center in the Square's planned $27 million renovation.

The nonprofit entity in downtown Roanoke, which provides rent-free space for several museums and arts organizations, also announced the public launch of a $9 million fundraising campaign.

Center in the Square has already raised about $14 million in tax credits and donations -- from such business heavyweights as Delta Dental of Virginia and Advance Auto Parts -- toward the project.

Jim Sears, Center's president, said that within the next three weeks, the organization will start issuing requests for bids on portions of the renovation. The plan is for Center's Church Avenue building to be renovated in 2010 and its Campbell Avenue building to be renovated in 2011, with the grand opening to occur at the start of 2012, Sears said.

The proposed changes to the downtown institution also include the creation of three new galleries in the Science Museum of Western Virginia and completion of renovations to the History Museum of Western Virginia. The Campbell Avenue building facade will be restored to how in appeared in about 1917, Sears said. And it will have all new wiring and plumbing.

A presentation Thursday night at Hotel Roanoke by architecture firm Spectrum Design showed an antique exterior and a cutting-edge interior more reminiscent of the Taubman Museum of Art.

"We want to make sure that this was as astounding a cultural center as we could make it," Sears said.

The Harrison Museum of African American Culture is expected to move into the building from its location on Harrison Avenue when the renovation is done.

The renovation also includes a larger space for the Roanoke Weiner Stand, and places the Little Dipper ice cream stand in the atrium.

Some features, such as the Dorothy Gillespie sculptures and the wooden donor benches, remain in place.

Spectrum Design Vice President David Bandy said he and Sears met with state and federal officials to make sure the building's exterior design fit requirements for historic tax credits.

So far, Delta Dental has agreed to purchase $6.6 million in state tax credits to help fund the renovation, while Advance Auto Parts is expected to purchase federal tax credits and make a cash donation totaling $3.16 million. In all, the renovation's budget calls for $18.3 million in tax credits to cover two-thirds of the cost.

The center continues to seek prospects to purchase the remaining $8.54 million in federal tax credits, Sears said.

Officials with both Delta Dental and Advance Auto said the tax credits were mutually beneficial and stressed the Center's importance to the Roanoke community.

Center in the Square is eligible to have historic tax credits used on its behalf because the market area has been declared a national historic district, said Brian Wishneff, a consultant for the project.

A business can purchase a historic tax credit and potentially deduct an amount from its tax debt that's larger than the credit purchase price. The money goes directly to the project rather than to the government, in effect functioning like a grant, Wishneff said.

The center previously used the tax credits to fund renovations of the Shenandoah Hotel and the train station that became the O. Winston Link Museum.

As for Center in the Square's $9 million campaign, it has already raised $4.1 million in donations. John Harlow, the consultant directing the fundraising campaign, said Center's goal is to conclude the fundraising phase in early summer 2010.

The most obvious beneficiary of the renovations is the Science Museum of Western Virginia, which will have the use of the roof features and the atrium to enhance its programming.

"Much of what we're doing is exactly what Science wants," Sears said. "We're going to have the largest live coral aquarium of anywhere on the East Coast."

Science museum Director Nancy McCrickard could not be reached for comment Thursday.

The science museum is conducting its own $5 million capital campaign to raise money for new exhibits, Sears said. The science museum plans to create three new permanent galleries, called "How It Works," "Healthy Earth" and "Healthy Bodies."

The center is also home to Mill Mountain Theatre, which canceled its season and ceased most of its operations in January.

Sears said the renovations retain the space for the theater, giving Mill Mountain the opportunity to reopen in 2012.

Mill Mountain board member Jason Bingham said no concrete plans exist yet as to what the theater will do, but efforts to eliminate debt and create a financially feasible plan for reopening continue.

Roanoke Region of Virginia

Check out our live stream!

Late summer and early fall are a great time for canoeists and kayakers to hit the water

2009-09-04T14:30:00.012-04:00

-- Dipping their paddles into the quiet and cool James River on Wednesday, the three canoeists worked to strike a balance between their need to cover the miles, and their desire to enjoy the day.

"It's like paddling through a post card," said Ed Rhett, shaking his head in amazement.

One of his two paddling partners, Dick McMillan, nodded.

"It's not often you can paddle for 15 miles and see only one other person," said McMillan.

"And only one house," Rhett added.

It's tough to top Western Virginia for that opportunity, especially in the fall, when the region's semi-wild rivers feature great scenery, active wildlife and generally light crowds.

A native of Pulaski, Rhett had made the trip from Charleston, W.Va., joining his brother, Charles, and their brother-in-law, McMillan, both of whom still live in Pulaski.

Why weren't they on the New River, another excellent paddling destination?

"We've done the whole New," McMillan said.

"We just finished last week," Charles Rhett pointed out.

Now it's on to the James.

The trio of retirees had already knocked out the long section from Iron Gate to Eagle Rock. On Wednesday they tackled the stretch from Eagle Rock to Springwood. Next up is the long day from Springwood to Arcadia.

While the men enjoy paddling through the summer, they love fall.

"With this kind of weather, there's not a lot of bugs," Ed Rhett said. "And the air is much clearer for photographs."

Sheepishly he admitted he was on the river that day without a camera, something he regretted early on when the trio spotted a bald eagle.

"In the sunlight, that white head looked just like a beacon," Rhett said.

During the week, daytime paddling crowds are light to nonexistent during the fall, even on rivers that can be filled with paddlers during the summer.

"School is back in session and people are thinking about other things," said John Mays, whose Twin River Outfitters business on the James sees its customer base shrink as fall arrives.

While Mays would prefer customers, he makes the most of the shift.

"It's when we do most of our paddling," he said.

Mays echoes the Rhetts when he talks about what to love about early fall paddling, including the comfortable weather, stunning water clarity, lack of bugs and beautiful scenery.

"Leaf season is actually an incredible time to be on the water paddling" Mays said.

Not all is perfect for paddlers in September and early October.

Water levels are often at their lowest of the year.

"It's not so much a safety issue," Mays said of low water. "It's more of a paddling comfort issue."

Pulling a canoe or kayak through one or two shallow riffles may be tolerable, but any more can be a real drag, so to speak.

Regularly mixing with river rocks can also mar the bottom of a craft, and even result in damage.

Fortunately for river runners, good rainfall this summer has area rivers in better shape than in recent seasons.

Those who make the effort to venture out will get to spend most of their time in their boats enjoying the scenery and the season.

Want more information on fishing? click here -->Roanoke Region of Virginia

A Critical Link: New Medical School Creates Stronger Bond between Roanoke and Blacksburg

2009-09-01T15:04:00.007-04:00

One day in July, Ed Murphy got some good news. Locomotives that had been rusting in a Roanoke scrap yard for decades were going to be hauled away to railroad museums. Another piece of the city’s railroad history was making way for a new economic engine, a medical school and research institute involving Blacksburg-based Virginia Tech and Roanoke-based Carilion Clinic, the health system that Murphy heads.

Some locals believe the ventures may become bigger than the railroad — a bold statement considering that Roanoke might still be a small town called Big Lick if the Norfolk & Western Railway hadn’t set up shop there in the 1880s. Murphy, though, is having none of this “bigger than the railroad” talk. “I’m not sure what that means,” he says. “It sounds weighty.”

Still, he adds, “There’s no doubt that an important component of the economic development of this community and the economic future of this region revolves around health care, education, research and the interconnection of all those parts.”

That interconnection is tying the economic fortunes of Roanoke and Blacksburg closer together, business leaders say. The lines between the two are “more governmental than they are practical,” says Beth Doughty, executive director of the Roanoke Valley Economic Development Partnership.

People coming into the area are increasingly thinking of the Roanoke and New River valleys as one place, not two, says Murphy. “I personally think there is a lot of value to defining this region as including both valleys because I think that they have important complimentary assets. So the more we can contribute to that being a reality, the better, I think, that we’re doing for the region.”

While collaborating with Tech on the medical school, Carilion also is transforming itself into a clinic employing a variety of specialists. It has hired 200 physicians in the past three years.

There have been a few bumps along the way, including a challenge from the Federal Trade Commission regarding recent Carilion acquisitions. The complaint says the $20 million purchase of the Center for Advanced Imaging and the Center for Surgical Excellence, two Roanoke-area outpatient facilities, eliminated competition and will lead to higher health-care costs.

“The FTC inquiry will not affect the development of the medical school, or Carilion’s ongoing development as a physician-led clinic,” says Carilion spokesman Eric Earnhart. “We are concerned that the complaint appears to be based on inaccurate information.”

The Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine is on track to welcome its first class of 42 students in August 2010. In June, the school received preliminary accreditation for its doctorate of medicine program from the Liaison Committee on Medical Education.

Carilion and Tech, in fact, have been partners for a long time, collaborating on research for about a decade. Now Carilion and Tech are reclaiming a former rail yard, turning a site that held a cement plant, a flour mill and the scrap yard with old locomotives into Riverside Center, a 30-acre biomedical park.

Riverside Center is coming to fruition at a time when unemployment in the Roanoke and Blacksburg areas is climbing. In June, Roanoke’s jobless rate was 7.8 percent and Blacksburg’s was 9.5, both higher than the state average of 7.3 percent.

Murphy believes that the emerging biomedical campus will attract research teams and other professionals with average annual salaries of $100,000 and more. Just putting up the buildings to accommodate the medical school has pumped more than $200 million into the local economy, he says.

Brian Townsend, Roanoke’s assistant city manager for community development, says real estate taxes alone will add $2 million a year to city coffers.
The people who will populate Riverside Center have started to arrive. There have been only 18 new hires so far, but Carilion projects 251 more jobs will be filled when the medical school and research institute are going full force.

Douglas Waters, interim president of Downtown Roanoke, Inc., says activity generated by Carilion and the medical school have helped to fuel the growth of downtown living in Roanoke. Waters lives in a converted bank building. Other downtown buildings, including former railroad office headquarters, have been reborn as upscale condominiums.

Murphy, though, says it’s wrong to focus on the Carilion-Tech collaborations to the exclusion of everything else being done to spark the area’s economy. He mentions the greenways being built throughout the valley, the planned renovations to the City Market Building, proposed renovations to Center in the Square, which houses a science museum and a history museum, and the development of the Roanoke River as “an urban amenity.”

Doughty, the Roanoke Valley Economic Development Partnership executive, says the changes reflect a new perspective on economic development. “The old model was you just attracted jobs and that was how you grew your population,” says Doughty. “The new model is you build a place that people want to be and that attracts the talent and the jobs follow the talent.”

She cites the examples of place such as Asheville, N.C.; Bend, Ore.; and Boulder, Colo. “I would definitely say that we tried to be Charlotte for too long,” she says.

Visit Virginia Business here.

Top Ten Places in the USA to See Fall Foliage, the BlueRidge Parkway Roanoke, VA #6!

2009-08-27T09:36:00.004-04:00

America's Best Online recognized the Blue Ridge Parkway as it's number sixth best place to view fall foliage! Below are the listings one through six. Click the link below to see the whole list!

6. Blue Ridge Parkway Fall Foliage - Virginia, North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway is also known as "America's Favorite Drive", and is the most visited unit of America's National Park System. A drive down the Parkway provides stunning, long range vistas and close-up looks at the natural and cultural history of the southern Appalachian mountains. It is designed as a drive-awhile and stop-awhile experience. The 469 mile parkway connects Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks. This scenic drive has an abundance of opportunities for stops at overlooks, picnic and camping facilities, trails, and natural areas.

5. The Mohawk Trail Fall Foliage - Massachuetts

Follow the steps that the original Indians took, and hike or ride the Mohawk Trail. One of the oldest designated tourist and scenic routes in the country, the Mohawk Trail traces its roots to the post glacial age.While the peoples of the northeast had neither the wheel nor the horse, they created many footpath trade and travel routes throughout New England. One of the most heavily traveled - and one of the most famous today - was the path we call the Mohawk Trail. During historic times, the Mohawk Trail evolved with the mode of transportation, advancing from foot travel to the automobile. The early European settlers used the Indian Path to travel between the English settlements of Boston and Deerfield, and the Dutch settlements in New York. The white settlers and traders brought with them the horse and the wheel, which required the widening and slight relocation of the original path.

4. The North Cascades Fall Foliage - Washington

Come and experience the intense and rugged beauty of the fall foliage of the North Cascades – jagged peaks, deep valleys, cascading waterfalls and over 700 glaciers. North Cascades National Park Service Complex contains the heart of this mountainous region in three park units which are all managed as one and include North Cascades National Park, Ross Lake and Lake Chelan National Recreation Areas.
Originally this area was the home to many Native American tribes and a trade gateway between the Plateau tribes to the east and the Coast Salish tribes to the west. Native Americans have been in these mountains for over 8,000 years. More recent settlers came in the nineteenth century to establish homesteads in places like the Stehekin Valley, or to mine elusive minerals – like gold, or to trap furbearing animals such as the beaver, otter, and marten.

3. Maroon Bells Fall Foliage, Colorado

When the Aspens start turning, Maroon Bells is the place to be to see Colorado's Fall Foliage. Maroon Bells has trails leading over nine passes above 12,000 feet in elevation, delectable hot springs of Conundrum Creek, and shimmering alpine lakes nestled at the feet of jagged peaks. Six of these peaks crest over 14,000 feet. The twin peaks of Maroon Bells are perhaps Colorado's most recognizable scene, and the surrounding wilderness is one of the most popular, both for good reason. When it comes to sheer mountain splendor and fall foliage, few areas compare with the Elk Mountains and Maroon Bells.

2. Smoky Mountains National Park Fall Foliage - North Carolina and Tennessee

The place place to see North Carolina and Tennessee Fall Foliage is in the Smokies. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a ridge upon ridge of endless forest that straddle the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. Its one of the largest protected areas in the Eastern United States. World and renowned for the diversity of its plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains, the quality of its remnants of Southern Appalachian mountain culture, and the depth and integrity of its wilderness sanctuary. Each year, the park attracts over nine million visitors.. Once a part of the Cherokee homeland, the Smokies today are a hiker's paradise with over 800 miles of trails.

1. Lake Champlain Fall Foliage - Vermont

Instead of hiking or driving thru the fall foliage, how about taking a boat and grabbing a pole to see Lake Champlain's Fall Foliage . Lake Champlain is every water lover's dream come true. The spectacular foliage, gentle breezes and comfortable temperatures make it hard to resist sailing, boating or windsurfing these waters. As deep as 400 feet in some places and home to over 60 species of fish, including bass and salmon, anglers cast their lines year-round into one of North America's greatest fishing locations. And then there are the historic lighthouses, the uncrowded beaches, the lakeside restaurants, and the historic communities hugging its shoreline. You can't miss with a fall foliage trip in upstate New York.

To see the rest of the list click here

Prestigious R&D Award Winner, Synchrony Inc., from Roanoke, VA!

2009-08-26T13:14:00.002-04:00

About the Award

For 47 years, the prestigious R&D 100 Awards have identified revolutionary technologies newly introduced to the market. The winning of an R&D 100 Award provides a mark of excellence known to industry, government, and academia as proof that the product is one of the most innovative ideas of the year. Synchrony was a winner in the Mechanical Devices category for it's Fusion Magnetic Bearing.

The Award Winner, Synchrony Inc. Roanoke, VA!

Magnetic bearing systems are common to large compressors and turbines in the oil and gas industries, but great complexity and cost, as well as bulk, has greatly hindered their widespread usage. To help companies experience some of the savings in mechanical wear, energy usage, and the lack of need for lubrication, Synchrony Inc., Roanoke, Va., developed its Fusion Magnetic Bearing. Through design innovations, the complexity of the magnetic bearing system is hidden both to the designer and operator of the machine. The maze of electromagnets, sensors, electronics, and wiring remains internal to the magnetic bearing. The required connections are simply 48 VDC of power and optionally an Ethernet cable. The overall size of the magnetic bearing remains smaller than conventional systems that require an external control system. Sensor data sampling occurs at a rate of 15,000 times per second, which allows the magnetic bearing to provide real-time continuous health monitoring of the rotor-dynamic health of the machine. Vibration data may be presented as time-based waveforms, as spatial orbits, or as spectral data. Conditions that can be identified include unbalance, misalignment, shaft bow, cracked rotor, and seal instabilities.

Visit the Roanoke Region

Tell us what your favorite outdoor activity around Roanoke, VA is!

ROANOKE REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP LEVERAGING OUTDOORS TO BUILD REGION’S BRAND

2009-08-25T15:37:00.004-04:00

Ease of access to outdoor amenities seen as lure for jobs, economic growth

ROANOKE, Va. (August 25, 2009) – The Roanoke Regional Partnership, recognizing the outdoors as a way to attract jobs and economic development, is making some impressive gains to leverage the region’s many outdoor amenities.

Until recently, the organization, representing seven communities in Virginia and a population of 300,000, focused primarily on luring businesses with the region’s low cost of living, convenient location, low utility rates, strong work ethic and other factors. In a recent shift, the Roanoke Regional Partnership also began emphasizing an asset that was literally outside but largely untapped.
In the process, it’s leading the way in how an economic development organization is cataloguing, packaging and promoting the great outdoors as a marketing tool to attract workers and companies that value proximity to trails, lakes, rivers and greenways.

“When you mention Roanoke, the first thing people say is how beautiful it is here,” says Beth Doughty, executive director of the Roanoke Regional Partnership. The region is bordered by the Blue Ridge and Allegheny mountains, with the Appalachian Trail, Blue Ridge Parkway, Smith Mountain Lake, Jefferson and George Washington National Forests, and James River within minutes of urban amenities.

“Until recently we’ve overlooked the potential of our natural amenities as an economic engine,” Doughty says. “Not only does that outdoor culture create a vibe that attracts people; it’s an economic sector in itself.”

To better promote its outdoor assets and build the region as an outdoor destination, the Partnership created a new position, director of outdoor branding. In just the first few months, this new emphasis has led to:

• Creation of a vibrant and growing online community through social media tools such as Facebook and Twitter to connect outdoor enthusiasts.

• Cataloguing and mapping of the region’s hiking trails, fishing spots, canoe and kayaking put-ins, bike routes, greenways, mountain bike trails and more
.
• Soon-to-launch new online directory, www.RoanokeOutside.com, about outdoor-related activities, businesses, and events; printable maps; outdoor-related calendar of events; and video and images.

• An outdoor recreation guide to help hotels and bed-and-breakfasts direct guests outside.

• An outdoor festival featuring the Banff Radical Reels adventure film tour on Sept. 30.

• Announcement of the first Blue Ridge Marathon, a calf-cruncher set for April 24, 2010, that climbs to more than 3,500 feet above the Roanoke Valley to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

• A weekly e-newsletter with more than 1,100 subscribers with tips and ideas to enjoy the region’s outdoors.

“We’ve seen tremendous momentum from our efforts. I get the same response from everyone I meet and tell my story – a universal nod followed by ‘this is so needed’ and ‘it’s about time,’ says Pete Eshelman, director of outdoor branding. “I’ve received e-mails from local outdoor stores and outfitters commenting that they’ve experienced the buzz. The outdoors plays a vital role in attracting young professionals, businesses and visitors. The outdoors and environment are important to them and they want to know what opportunities and amenities are available to them. We’ve finally been able to do something about it.”

When business prospects visit, Doughty adds, "After 'hello,' the first thing they say is, 'It's beautiful here.' They ask about bike paths and water sports most importantly," she says. "But to some extent, it's right in front of them. They can see right away the depth of the outdoors opportunities in this market.

“If the Roanoke region becomes Virginia's best place to have a life and have fun outdoors,” Doughty concludes, “I think we'll be in better shape for attracting talent and investments."

To learn more, please visit www.Roanoke.org. or Roanoke Region of Virginia

Check out our temporary Outdoors site: Roanoke Outside

Let us know what you think! leave a comment below!

Goodlatte Announced the coming of a New Marathon, Sanctioned the Blue Ridge Marathon on the Parkway!

2009-08-13T09:21:00.011-04:00

On Wednesday (August 12, 2009), Bob Goodlatte along with other organizers, announced that there will be a new marathon coming to the Roanoke Region of Virginia, named the Blue Ridge Marathon on the Parkway. The race is set for April 24, 2010, it will cover 16 miles of Mountain climbing as well as 10 miles of city roadways covering parts of the Blue Ridge Parkway and Roanoke.

"The 26.2-mile course will start at the Taubman Museum of Art in downtown Roanoke, wind up Mill Mountain and onto the parkway. Runners will climb to the top of Roanoke Mountain, cut back down to the Mill Mountain Star and go through parts of downtown Roanoke. The finish line will be in front of the Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center."

Marketing to outdoor runners with our beautiful landscapes, we hope to gain 500 to 1,000 runners the first year for the marathon thus, eventually obtaining 3,000 to 5,000 for the years following.

"An economic study conducted for the first running of the Mount Rushmore Marathon reported that the race generated $1.6 million for the local economy, with 1,000 runners," said Pete Eshelman, who is director of outdoor branding for the Roanoke Regional Partnership and co-chairman of the marathon committee with Carlin.

"Also, in the United States, the typical female long distance runner earned $50,000 or more in 2006, while the typical male long distance runner made $75,000 or more, according to Running USA."

"They spend their money when they travel," Eshelman said.

The Roanoke Region hopes the Blue Ridge Marathon on the Parkway becomes a popular destination event. This would bring considerable revenue for the area. Runners often come for a weekend, rent hotel rooms and visit surrounding restaurants. Marathons have grown in number and participants over the past 20 years, with approximately 400 marathons held in 2007 and 412,000 finishers, according to Running USA.

The events that take place surrounding the marathon also are important.

So, mark your calendars and start your training!
Make sure to check out blueridgeparkwaymarathon.com for any details

Vote for your favorite Winery in VA!

2009-07-24T13:44:00.004-04:00

Virginiawineevent.com is having their annual traditional poll to choose THREE wineries to get named the Favorite Virginia Winery in 2009 award. What comes with it you say? Bragging rights, really big plaque and news coverage! Most importantly, BRAGGING RIGHTS! So, make sure you visit Virginiawineevent.com to cast your vote!

Comment below and let us know how you voted!

Three Roanoke Region examples of advanced manufacturing featured in Industry Week!

2009-07-23T08:49:00.006-04:00

Global, customization and technology manufacturing are three core areas of manufacturing the Roanoke Region was recognized for By INDUSTRY WEEK.

Here are the three that were mentioned:

Global. In Roanoke, Australian steel manufacturer and distributor OneSteel Limited has opened a subsidiary called LiteSteel America that produces a cold-formed steel beam for use in residential and light commercial construction. The factory uses process equipment from Italy, Norway and Japan. LiteSteel says its beams are price-competitive but 40% lighter than hot rolled steel or engineered wood of the same spanning capacity.

Customization. Optical Cable Corp. (OCC) has built a $61 million business since 1983 by creating a wide range of fiber-optic cable products, which are known for being able to operate in harsh environments. President and CEO Neil Wilkin tells the story of how a mining customer in West Virginia ran heavy equipment over the cable and hung 400 pounds on it with no damage. In May 2008, OCC acquired SMP Data Communications, a move that added copper and fiber-optic connectivity products to its line and allowed it to become a solutions provider for the enterprise market.

Technology. GE Energy's Salem, Va., facility provides design and system engineering for power generation applications including wind, solar, gasification and nuclear facilities. GE produces 3,000 wind turbines per year. GE Salem is working on projects ranging from an integrated water desalination and power plant in Saudi Arabia to a Duke Energy coal gasification plant in Edwardsport, Ind. But while leading-edge technology is at the heart of this 700-plus-person plant, equally important is an adaptable workforce that has taken lean manufacturing to heart.

Check out more companies in the Region here or at Roanoke Region of Virginia

Gov. Kaine announces $2 million in Recovery Funds for Roanoke River Greenway.

2009-07-22T11:35:00.003-04:00

Nearly 250 projects across the state will be constructed thanks to Recovery Act funding

Governor Timothy M. Kaine today announced that more than $1 billion in American Restoration and Recovery Act funding has been allocated for infrastructure projects in Virginia.

The announcement included $2 million in funding for the Roanoke River Greenway. The money will be spent to connect the Tinker Creek and Roanoke River Greenways in the City of Roanoke and to complete sections of the Roanoke River Greenway around Salem’s Moyer Sports Complex.

"These projects are beginning at a time when we are facing a national economic crisis, and they are putting Virginians to work," Governor Kaine said. "The projects also will pay long-term dividends to all of us, in the form of improved bridges and highways, railways and other transit, sewage treatment and drinking water."

Roanoke Region of Virginia

Click here for the locality listing

Best Places to Live #89, Cave Spring VA!

2009-07-21T09:49:00.003-04:00

The Roanoke Region was mentioned on CNNMoney.com.

Cave Spring is a slow-paced, family-oriented community adjacent to the city of Roanoke, a bustling industrial hub. Carillion Health Care, Advance Auto Parts, GE, Toshiba, and ITT have large operations in the area. Virginia Tech is less than an hour away, and several high-tech companies have a presence here too.

Salem recording studio has Dave Mathews Band claim to fame!

2009-07-21T09:13:00.001-04:00

Before it hit the charts, Dave Matthews Band put in 200 hours of work -- on the q.t. -- at Salem's Flat 5 Press and Recording Co.

Rewind to 1993, and Dave Matthews Band was playing college fraternity parties, and had played the Barrel House in Salem (site of All Sports Cafe's Salem location). But the buzz was building, and by the end of the year, a major record label bidding war was on to sign the act, Ohmsen remembered.

He had just moved the studio out of his Salem home and into town -- "My wife told me to move it," he said, with a grin -- and the business was "limping along." He was also working at Stage Sound, where Matthews' group had been renting gear for shows.

Band manager Coran Capshaw asked Stage Sound owner Reid Henion about local studios. Capshaw wanted something relatively close to DMB's Charlottesville home base, but not so close that the band couldn't get any peace. Henion suggested Ohmsen.

The band came to hang out, liked the vibe and made plans to record. Ohmsen was sworn to secrecy.

"I agreed not to reveal they were here," he said. "I did get calls -- from the media, from girls."

The band came in for five days a week, two weeks out of each month. It spent the rest of the month playing shows. The arrangement worked like it often does for young bands.

Roanoke Region of Virginia

Thanks to Roanoke.com

U.S. News & World Report ranks VA among "Five Best States Start a Business."

2009-07-20T16:15:00.000-04:00

– Governor Kaine highlights national ranking by U.S. News & World Report for Virginia's "favorable and innovative climate" for entrepreneurs –

Governor Timothy M. Kaine today highlighted Virginia's ranking among the "Five Best States to Start a Business." The recognition by U.S. News & World Report this week comes on the heels of the Commonwealth's sixth number one ranking for its pro-business environment.

"The latest accolades accorded the Commonwealth demonstrate that Virginia remains a power player among business-friendly states," said Governor Kaine. "As we work to get our economy back on track, it's great to be recognized for continuing to attract innovative businesses to Virginia."

"Virginia makes a great effort to assist in the establishment of small businesses with programs that streamline the startup process and connect entrepreneurs with resources," said Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade, Patrick Gottschalk. "Our business one stop electronic business formation system is continually growing in popularity with Virginia's entrepreneurs."

Roanoke Region of Virginia

The Roanoke Times: Panasonic invests in Roanoke County firm

2008-09-15T09:15:00.000-04:00

PixelOptics, a small Roanoke County-based technology company, provided additional evidence this weekend that the growing company could be moving toward a fortunate future.
PixelOptics announced that the Panasonic Venture Group has become an apparently enthusiastic investor and shareholder. PVG is the venture capital arm of global electronics giant Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., better known as Panasonic. The investment amount was not disclosed.
PixelOptics executives, including optometrist, inventor and entrepreneur Ron Blum, suggest that the company's successful launch of high-tech lenses for vision correction could benefit the region's economy.
To date, most of the product development information shared cautiously by PixelOptics has focused on its electro-active lens -- a microprocessor equipped lens designed to focus automatically on objects near, far and in-between. Blum said a different lens will be introduced in early October at the International Vision Expo West in Las Vegas.
He said PixelOptics wants to make a big splash by first introducing the lens to industry insiders at the event. The product PixelOptics will tout is a fixed-focus, composite lens, said Steve Holt, the company's chief financial officer.
Neither he nor Blum would provide additional details.
According to PVG, based in California's Silicon Valley, it serves "as a gateway for companies to partner with Panasonic on technology and product development." The group said it invests in companies that present a "strategic competitive advantage to Panasonic."
Blum has said the lenses being developed by PixelOptics could have a profound impact on the optical industry. The company's lenses are designed to treat presbyopia, a condition that begins to affect the vision of many middle-aged people and is generally corrected now with bifocals or progressive addition lenses.
Holt said PVG's investment does not necessarily mean Panasonic will license or buy the small company's lens technologies.
"It's a good sign that they're interested in the product but I wouldn't read too much more into that," Holt said.
Patrick Suel of PVG said he discovered PixelOptics during a discussion with a friend. One discussion led to another, he said.
He said the group believes PixelOptics' electro-active lenses could spur the first real revolution in spectacle lenses since 1784, when Benjamin Franklin is said to have invented bifocals.
Brad McManus, PVG's director of investments, said the group also was impressed by the management team PixelOptics has recruited to Roanoke, a team that includes high-level veterans from optical lens companies such as Essilor.
Blum, the company's chairman, president and chief executive officer, said the recruitment to Roanoke of these executives has helped the local economy. PixelOptics recently moved from cramped offices on Hershberger Road to a much larger space in the Valleypointe business park in Roanoke County. It has about 30 employees.
"I believe PixelOptics has already made a positive contribution to the Roanoke Valley by way of new jobs, bringing new talent and families to the valley and exposing others from outside the valley to the Roanoke Valley," Blum said in an e-mail.
"Admittedly, the more successful PixelOptics becomes the more it will impact the valley," he added. "I have learned that with a young start-up company momentum and credibility are everything. Having a global giant like Panasonic invest in PixelOptics provides both."
Cory Donovan, executive director for the NewVa Corridor Technology Council, said that Panasonic's investment in PixelOptics provides "another example of how the region is now appearing on the radar screen as a place that is home to innovative, successful technology companies."
Blum has a track record of success in the spectacle lens industry. In 1997, he sold his company, Innotech, and its lens technology to Johnson & Johnson for $135 million.
Blum's innovations played a role in the Definity eyeglass lens later sold by J&J. Local officials celebrated when the Fortune 500 company announced it would manufacture the lens in Roanoke. However, in 2005, J&J announced it had sold the lens to competitor Essilor, which moved production out of Roanoke.
In 1999, Blum founded the Egg Factory, an innovation-focused, privately held company. In 2005, PixelOptics spun off from eVision, a spinoff of the Egg Factory.
On the net: www.pixeloptics.com and www.vcpanasonic.com.

Governor Honors Franklin County with Technology Award

2008-09-10T11:15:00.000-04:00

Franklin County’s innovative approach to the use of technology in improving government services and efficiency has been recognized with one of the Commonwealth’s highest honors. Virginia Governor Timothy M. Kaine awarded Franklin County the prestigious Technology Award for Excellence during his remarks at the 10th annual Commonwealth of Virginia Innovative Technology Symposium (COVITS) in Williamsburg on Monday. Only eight projects statewide received this coveted prize.

The award came in the category of Innovative Use of Technology in Local Government for the County’s wireless broadband project. Franklin County’s winning project utilized a public-private partnership between the County and B2X, a private sector wireless Internet service provider. The partnership built a redundant, wireless mesh network that expanded the County’s wide-area network to all remote county offices including fifteen fire and rescue stations. This enabled the County to provide better emergency services response to the outlying areas of the community and to streamline government operations County-wide. In addition, the project brought high-speed internet options to citizens throughout the community, many for the first time. The project targeted those rural areas that were identified as most lacking in broadband availability. The partnership made innovative use of existing County infrastructure and utilized creative financing to expedite the network build-out while limiting the investment of the County’s general funds and impact on taxpayers. The availability of high-speed internet service is a prerequisite to many businesses looking to locate in the area and is viewed as a major quality of life issue for citizens.

The Governor's Technology Awards recognize innovation and ‘big picture thinking' put into action by government entities. In receiving the award on behalf of Franklin County, Director of Information Technology Sandie Terry said, “this award is very gratifying in that it recognizes the County’s efforts to deploy broadband services for Economic Development and quality of life enhancements in a very cost effective and collaborative way. This award demonstrates Franklin County’s leadership in the state in addressing the challenges facing local governments with innovative solutions.”

For further information on Franklin County, go to www.franklincountyva.org.

Great Op-Ed from the Blue Ridge Journal about the Growth of Tech Jobs

2008-09-10T09:01:00.000-04:00

Cory Donovan, Executive Director of NCTC, wrote an interesting Op-Ed for the Blue Ridge Business Journal describing the opportunities for high tech business and high tech jobs in the region.

I grew up in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Even before I started thinking about college and career, I always knew I’d wind up leaving my hometown because there just wasn’t much opportunity. Unless you really don’t get along with your family, I doubt most of us enjoy the prospect of moving away from our loved ones. But, we all do what we have to do, right? Had I grown up in today’s NewVa region, which includes Roanoke, Blacksburg, and surrounding counties, I would have had a lot more options. Our region is home to a budding community of fast-growing technology companies. Many have current job openings for software developers, hardware engineers, biotechnologists, research technicians, material scientists, as well as, supporting positions in human resources, marketing and accounting to name a few.However, finding those qualified professionals is a big challenge that could restrict the growth of those young technology companies. And it’s not just a challenge for this area – tech companies throughout the country are facing the same problem because there’s a shortage of workers in almost every technology field.

This presents an opportunity for us here in the NewVa region - a unique prospect that other regions in this country cannot offer. Our children can grow up here, get a quality education nearby, pursue exciting careers in advanced technologies, and be well compensated without having to make the difficult decision to move away.

The NewVa region is frequently recognized as a great place to raise a family, and enjoy a high quality of life - not to mention the spectacular outdoor amenities. The region also includes a strong base of successful entrepreneurs with a zealous commitment to the region’s future. Plus, there are six institutions of higher education, including Virginia Tech, which operates a research park home to over 100 companies.

Many of the growing tech companies in our area will be exhibiting at the NewVa Tech Expo on September 5th at the Roanoke Civic Center. So, if you have a son, daughter, cousin, other family member, or friend who moved away to pursue jobs elsewhere, please spread the word about the opportunity that exists here. Come out and learn more about the companies creating the economic growth that will employ the future generations in Southwest Virginia. For more information, please visit our website at www.TheTechnologyCouncil.com/TechExpo.

Cory Donovan
Executive Director
NewVa Corridor Technology Council

It's all about progress

2008-08-07T08:49:00.000-04:00

With the economy shaking at its knees and companies reporting huge second quarter losses, Roanoke proves once again to be recession proof and continues to progress.

Advance Auto Parts, an international auto parts company based in Roanoke, has reported an increase in profits from last years $68.4 million to $75.4 million in the second quarter. Furthermore, in the past few days Advance Auto Parts has hired three new executives, one who will be working in the Roanoke region.

Other industry progress is taking place as well. Carilion Clinic's continued expansion within the region is painting the picture of the future Roanoke. As the cranes keep moving from one building site to another, Carilion and Virginia Tech are also finalizing plans for the new Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine which will be located in the medical empire's Riverside Center. On top of that, Carilion and Virginia Tech are also teaming up with the University of Virginia to develop the Carilion Biomedical Institute (http://www.biomedicalinstitute.com/), a medical research establishment.

Finally, the new Taubman Museum of Art is preparing for its big debut on November 8th. Leading up to the opening night, there will be 40 days and 40 nights of arts and cultural programs hosted by the Art Council of the Blue Ridge. For more information, go to www.4040fest.com.

More will come on this blog about the exploding arts and culture scene. I will also be discussing the rise of the young professionals and their influence on the Roanoke region.

Small towns beckon big city professionals--CNN

2008-08-01T11:46:00.000-04:00

CNN published a report on the new migration of big-city professionals to smaller areas with cheaper costs of living and a less stressful life style. http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/worklife/07/28/going.home.ap/index.html

A large portion of the article focuses on the efforts of this area to recruit people leaving large cluster areas; it is called "Return to Roots."

Given modern technology, today's professionals are able to work away from the office, or even relocate their office to other areas. This is a great opportunity for the Roanoke Region. Professionals want a less stressful lifestyle with access to the outdoors, but many a probably hestitant to leave big city amenities. Roanoke has the best of both worlds, and individuals trying to get out of the hectic big city life will find that the Roanoke region best suits their needs.

Also, for people looking for information about the Roanoke region from people who live or have lived here, check out the City-Data.com forums: http://www.city-data.com/forum/roanoke-area/

There are a bunch of people on it daily trying to learn new things about the region, and it should be a helpful resource for finding information about the region.

Oh yeah! The annual downtown Roanoke Peach Festival is this weekend in Elmwood Park! It's peach season baby so come check out the event that draws thousands of people to downtown Roanoke each year!

And, of course, Friday August 1st is the first Friday of the month, so head downtown for live music and drinks at First Friday's at Five! First Friday's is a non-profit social event that raises money and awareness for local charities; so, its pretty much a good cause to come hang out! http://www.firstfridaysroanoke.com/

Have a great weekend and we hope to see you around the Roanoke Region!

Welcome to the Roanoke Region of Virginia!

2008-07-30T09:43:00.000-04:00

So you love the arts, culture and pace of a big city, but you hate the traffic and lack of exciting outdoor opportunities?

Then welcome to the Roanoke Region of Virginia!

The Roanoke Region has long been considered the culture hub of Western Virginia. Recently a lot of energy has been invested into the arts and music scene in the Roanoke Region. The vision has been fulfilled in the Taubman Museum of Art, the dozens of art galleries in the region, the performing arts venues and new music scene. Like a larger metropolitan area, there are plenty of arts and culture. However, unlike a big metropolitan area, you can also easily escape into the wilderness. Bike the Blue Ridge Parkway, hike MacAfee’s Knob (or any of several dozen other trails), wakeboard on Smith Mountain Lake, or fish for trout on the Jackson River. The Roanoke Region clearly offers the best balance between urban amenities and outdoor activities in the Eastern United States.

The Roanoke Region is also a great place to pursue your interests. In larger metropolitan areas, it is difficult to get involved or make a meaningful difference on a large scale. In the Roanoke Region, you have the opportunity to make things happen. Whether it is getting involved in a number of organizations that make newspaper headlines regularly (Valley Forward, the Arts Council of the Blue Ridge) or starting your own venture, it is easy (and inexpensive!) to do it in the Roanoke Region.

The Roanoke Region of Virginia blog will post about events, news and other observations in the Roanoke area, providing you with the inside scoop and first look at the development of the region.