NRV Magazine May/June 2023

NEW RIVER VALLEY

P. O. Box 11816

Blacksburg, VA 24062

o: 540-961-2015

nrvmagazine@msn.com

www.nrvmagazine.com

PUBLISHER

Country Media, Inc.

Phillip Vaught

MANAGING EDITOR

Joanne Anderson

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Dennis Shelor

WRITERS

Joanne Anderson

Emily Alberts

Jo Clark

Becky Hepler

Nancy Moseley

Kameron Bryant

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Tom Wallace

Kristie Lea Photography

Kevin Riley

Madison Underwood

Billy Bowling Photography

Nathan Cooke Photography

Pasture Talk

ompiling the Fairs, Festivals, Events & Family Fun for this issue and for NRV Map (coming soon) for the first time since 2019 was a delightful exercise in discovering what’s going on still and what’s going on anew. Festivals and fairs are such a vibrant part of community life. Tear out the pages, circle everything that looks like fun, which is almost everything, and place under a magnet on your refrigerator.

It was interesting that both writers Nancy Moseley and Emily Alberts chose Pandapas Pond for the first place to take kids under 10 years old and to take children where they can get their feet wet. Take it from me, there’s no age restriction out there. I have ridden trails in many places, and this is my number one choice. I am over 10 with a splash of 10-year-old from time to time. I may not like getting my feet wet in Poverty Creek, but my favorite activity on horseback, bar none, is walking through water. My horses get their hoofs wet with great audio and visual splashing steps. We horseback riders see folks of all ages at Pandapas, and most all the bicyclists, walkers and joggers are kind and considerate of the horses. If bikes are coming toward us, they stop at first sight and pull their bicycles off the trail. When they come up behind us, we move our horses off the trail so they can ride on. A horse walks about 4 miles per hour, and these mountain bikers understandably enjoy the speed component through the woods and the creeks. We are thankful to the bicycle groups and Jefferson National Forest people who keep the trails clear and open, especially after a storm.

© 2023 Country Media, Inc.

Country Media, Inc. will not knowingly publish any advertisement that is illegal or misleading to its readers. Neither the advertiser nor Country Media, Inc. will be responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints, or typographical errors. The publisher assumes no financial liability for copy omissions by Country Media, Inc. other than the cost of the space occupied by the error. Corrections or cancellations to be made by an advertiser shall be received no later than 5 p.m. the 20th of each publishing month. No claim shall be allowed for errors not affecting the value of the advertisement. Paid advertising does not represent an endorsement by this publication. Content cannot be reproduced without written consent from Country Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Real Estate advertised in this publication is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968.

The whole trail scene in the New River Valley is awesome for having dedicated municipalities, volunteers and groups. The Huckleberry Trail now runs 15 miles between Blacksburg and Christiansburg with an educational 1.5mile Coal Mining Loop Trail at mile 5. The relatively new Gateway Trail connects hikers, bikers and horseback riders from

the Meadowbrook and Glade roads intersection with the national forest trails out of Pandapas. The Dodd Creek Trail in Floyd is an easy 1.25-mile loop. The New River Trail is a wonderful rails-totrails wide path with railroad trestles, woodlands, river and pasture scenes. There are nice trails around the lake at Gatewood Park and many more all over the New River Valley.

Someone recently mentioned seeing more independent shops at Uptown Christiansburg (former New River Valley Mall), and I have stumbled on a couple new retail places. Amazing Grace Boutique & Café at 76 W. Main St. in Pulaski has charming gifts and good food. A unique candle and home shop named The Chandlerie opened May 2 at 127 N. Franklin St. in Christiansburg. It is a candle atelier and home boutique. One of our all-time faves, Pearis Mercantile, is worth the drive to Pearisburg.

Shop small, shop local and shop often!

Joanne Anderson ManagingEditor jmawriter@aol.com

Correction: “An NRV Tree Primer” in the MarchApril issue was written by Emily K. Alberts [and inadvertently attributed to someone else].

Splish Splash

Hiking with kids is difficult.

Despite our best marketing skills, there's always a whine or two or 10 and maybe even a trailside sit-in. But, in the end, if our efforts get little feet to wander over rugged, tree-covered land, it's worth it. Decades from now their adult selves may mature enough to appreciate our plight (and test it with their own children).

From experience, if there's the promise of getting those little feet a little wet, the hard sell becomes a bit easier. Adding a water element to the drudgery of a hot summer hike delights kids and adults. The sound alone of a creek bubbling over rock beds is a remarkable way to drown out complaints. With water, the whines tend to fade into giggles and, on extra special adventures, maybe even result in a refusal to go home.

Here are a few area hikes that provide an opportunity for splash. But if your soldiers remain dauntless in their stance, there is always bribery.

EASIER

Pandapas Pond: A short drive west on U.S. 460 from Blacksburg, on the Eastern Continental Divide, is this popular day use area. There are 11 hikes to choose from, but the one to target is Poverty Creek Trail. Park in the back section of the lower lot, farthest from the highway, walk down to the pond, then hang a right to head into the woods. Soon you will be hiking alongside Poverty Creek with many access points for play. Pack a picnic and hang out for an entire morning or afternoon. For a more remote experience, pass by the main entrance off 460, then take a left onto Forest Service Road 708. After a mile-and-ahalf, the road meets up with Poverty Creek, where you can wade deeper in the forest, away from the busy parking lots.

H.L. Price Park: A little outside of town off Price's Fork Road in Blacksburg, you'll find the new-ish H.L. Price Park trail. A 1.6-mile, wellgroomed loop trail is dotted with picnic benches and bridges. At the "top" of the loop you encounter a nice meadow with access to Stroubles Creek. Bring net catchers to capture a curious creature or two and towels in the event of full-on swimming.

Bribery Bonus: Stop by the old Price's Fork Elementary Schoolturned brewery, restaurant and residential housing. Mom and Dad can sit outside with a draft from Moon Hollow Brewery (who says bribery is only for offspring), while the urchins order fried ice cream from next door’s El Ranchero. Conveniently, they deliver to the brewery.

Text by Nancy S. Moseley

Photo courtesy of Sean Shannon

area hikes for little ones to get a little wet

Photo courtesy of Giles Tourism

Photo courtesy of Giles Tourism

MORE DIFFICULT

Stiles Falls: Starting off from Alta Mons, a Methodist church camp in Shawsville, Stiles Falls is a 3.2-mile round trip hike. The trail runs adjacent to Purgatory Creek with several crossings along the way. Staying creekside provides plenty of fun without even attempting the destination. But if you're set on seeing the falls, expect some tricky rock scrambling and climbing to access the shallow cascade pool. The gumption (and physical capabilities) of each wee hiker is different, so parents are best to make a judgement call with this one.

Mill Creek: Just outside downtown Narrows sits the 145-acre Mill Creek Nature Park. From the parking lot, a half-mile stroll will lead to an old, dammed reservoir from the late 1700s. Keep heading up the mountain to see signage for waterfalls. There are at least two that flow year-round, with more that pop up after hard rains. The second of the permanent two is a favorite, a bit off-trail and one you

can lean into for an awesome photo opp. The runoff leads to shallow pools, eventually spilling across smooth, flat, rock surfaces, perfect to splash in all day. The area feels remote and secretive, like you happened upon something no one else has seen. Bring snacks and enjoy your own personal fairy tale setting.

Bribery Bonus: Tangent Outfitters in Pembroke on the return trip toward Blacksburg is a colorful, independent store to peruse name brand outdoor wares and local artisan trinkets. Cascade Cafe offers ice cream(!), sandwiches, burgers, pizzas and salads. And ... ice cream!

WORTH THE DRIVE

Falls of Dismal aka Dismal Falls: (Note: not dismal at all) In Bland County, approximately 40 miles from Christiansburg, is the Falls of Dismal hike, with "hike" used lightly here. If you want big water payoff with very little hiking, this is your choice. After just a tenth of a mile walk from gravel roadside parking, you reach

the popular watering hole. The falls are 40 feet wide and drop 12 feet into a whirlpool. Yes, depending on the time-of-year and water flow, it's very jumpable. The area is expansive for exploration, from deep swimming to rock-skipping and shallow wading. This one is good for littles of all ages.

Bribery Bonus: Walker Valley Market off Walkers Creek Valley Road is a must-do. The highlight is a full-service deli with made-to-order sandwiches, quite possibly the best you will ever eat (from experience). There is also a bakery (donuts!) and an entire aisle of bulk-packaged "Candy Through the Decades." Sit back with your sammie and watch their little eyes light up with the pain-staking reality of decision-making.

Nancy S. Moseley is freelance writer from Blacksburg who may or may not have occasionally dragged her boys reluctantly into the woods. She's found that Skittles (a) don't melt and (b) are useful to administer every 2-4 minutes or so to assure the children keep following her back to the car.

LIVING Over the Store

Text by Joanne M. Anderson

Amy Hudson had no intentions of living over the store when she bought land for her real estate company offices in 2006. Her main objective was to build the commercial space for RE/MAX8 the following year. Alas, a recession arrived and moved those plans to the proverbial back burner.

Fast forward a decade, and several things had changed. Hudson’s kids had grown up and flown the home coop. She had more flexibility to travel. Working remotely had evolved in a big way. But it was the elevator which transformed her plans into including her new home, an

awesome, 3,000-square-foot, contemporary, 2-story loft.

“When I began designing the building, the second floor would have four 1,500-sq-ft apartments for rentals,” she explains. “I learned that town code required an elevator for four or more dwelling units on a second floor, so, well, I analyzed my life, my house, my love of cooking, my work and talked to my husband.” It didn’t take her a long time to latch on to 3,000 of those square feet for her new residence, and have two 1,500-sq-ft, 2BR, 2BA apartments. No elevator. Most of 2016 was occupied with planning and designing alongside local businesses. Steve Semones of

Photos by Tom and Christy Wallace

Balzer & Associates spearheaded the engineering and architectural team. Interior Designer Teresa Ko [Teresa Ko – Commercial Interiors, LLC] was consulted for her exceptional vision and innovation for commercial spaces. Green Valley Builders constructed the edifice, and National Bank of Blacksburg anchored the financial end.

Amy and her husband, Michael Mortimer, moved into the glorious, modern apartment in March of 2017, and the staff of RE/MAX8 took up their positions on the ground floor a month later.

Commercial Ground Floor

“Real estate is a changing industry,” Amy states, “and the traditional component remains present while the more technology-based, paperless approach has stepped in. We embrace both of these methods and designed this space for work, comfort and appeal to our agents as well

After being elected President of the United States, Ronald Reagan quipped that once again he was living “over the store”. When he was 8 and 9 years old, the family resided in a 2nd floor apartment in Tampico, Illinois, where his father was the manager of Pitney’s Shoestore on the first floor.

as buyers and sellers who meet here.”

The front is “innovation space” and down the hall is “administration space”. A real traditional touch is the corded phones in the back cubicles, corded to the wall and from receiver to telephone.

“In commercial design, we emphasize the client’s brand and tell a story through the space,” relates Teresa Ko. “Amy wanted to include a red, British-style, phone booth as a whimsical place to make or take personal phone calls, and that worked well with the red of the RE/MAX8 brand. We also wanted to make the space personal. The phone booth serves as a pop of color in front of a large scale image of Main Street, Blacksburg. The photo was taken by Amy’s husband, and we had it enlarged and digitally printed on wallcovering.” There are bright glass wall offices, a central self-serve coffee shop, private conference room and casual places to visit, negotiate and conduct training.

Residential Upper Floors

Although the property is flanked by 7-11, North Main Street and Heartstrings Pet Lodging and Spa, stepping in the front door instantly transports a visitor to a smart, clean, warm, modern, artistic interior. It’s gasp-worthy at first look.

“For their home, Amy and Michael wanted a more urban, contemporary look that is hard to find in Blacksburg,” Teresa recalls. “We endeavored to provide a striking backdrop for their artwork, as well as mid-century modern furnishings that would make a strong visual statement without competing with one another.”

Large windows on the fourth side of the building bathe the living room, dining area, open staircase and upper level balcony in natural daylight. The glass gas fireplace can be enjoyed from both sides and provides an element of room definition. A spacious kitchen island/ counter delineates the prep and cooking spaces.

“I love to cook,” Amy exudes, “so I have an

extensive herb garden outside my offices, two ovens, plenty of counter space and many, many spices, herbs and favorings.” The sleek kitchen is large but not overwhelming, with a stainless steel farmhouse sink, gas range, stainless appliances and granite counters.

The outdoor and interior stairs have a diamond plate surface, and matte metal railings inside and out add an industrial component popular in urban contemporary design. On the second floor, Michael has an oversized, loft home office. A balcony open to the living space below replaces what might be an enclosed hallway in other homes, and there are also two guest rooms and a full bathroom. The master bedroom suite is conveniently on the first floor.

Both the home and offices reflect an upscale, modern style where color, décor and amenities (think: coffee and casual professionals downstairs, fireplace and a homecooked meal upstairs) deliver a warmth and congeniality that permeates the spaces.

On the Air

Hokies and Highlanders keep radio cherished and relevant

It's hard to recall a time when word traveled by homing pigeon, and music was only consumed by those within eyesight of the instrument.

Yet thanks to Italian inventor, Guglielmo Marconi, pigeons were relegated to roam the city streets when he revolutionized the use of electromagnetic waves to transmit sound. At the very end of the 19th century, Marconi stunned citizens when he broadcast the results of a yacht race from a ship in the Atlantic Ocean to the land-based New York Herald.

After steady advances in radio science and a healthy dose of commercialism, the decades between 1920 and 1950 became known as "The Golden Age of Radio." Certainly

Text by Nancy S. Moseley

Rockwell-esque images come to mind, with families gathered 'round the living room radio to enjoy afterdinner entertainment in the form of variety shows, music, comedy bits and drama. The most well-known, perhaps, was Orson Welles' famous theatrical interpretation of H.G. Wells' novel, "The War of the Worlds" on Halloween's eve, 1938. The power, influence and potential of radio quickly became unavoidable. Radio allowed for the President of the United States to speak in living rooms and brought the front lines of World War II into American homes. Ham radio engrossed curious minds in basements and garages everywhere. Drive-time radio helped

make local disc jockeys celebrities. College radio ... well, it's still the place where introverts go to be heard and not seen, to be among like-minded cool people, to immerse themselves in new music and share personal favorites with thousands of scholarly peers.

Hokie Radio

Virginia Tech's FCC-licensed, non-commercial, non-profit, studentrun station, WUVT, celebrated its 75th anniversary this spring. More than 100 alumni returned for the festivities from as far away as the Pacific Northwest. The station relies on the monetary support of these alumni, along with community donations and local

WUVT LiveShow Photo By Snead 1961

Record Group 31/17/4, Radio Station WUVT, Special Collections and University Archives, University Libraries, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

WUVT TomGameway ca1949

Record Group 31/17/4, Radio Station WUVT, Special Collections and University Archives, University Libraries, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

business underwriting – plus the passion of whoever is behind the microphone at this moment.

"I like radio because it's super accessible. If you are driving, you can tune to a station, it's always on. It's in the moment. You never know what you're going to get listening to the radio. There's that exploration aspect of it," offers Michael Haddad, a civil engineering major and current general manager of WUVT.

Virginia Tech's station is on the air 7 a.m.- 4 a.m. every day, with a rotating medley of 92 DJs, a mix of students, faculty, staff and community members (if you are reading this, you too can be a DJ!). DJs aren’t told what to play, but each hour of the day generally sticks to a genre and, true to the spirit of education, should include something from the new music bin. WUVT's mission statement on its website: "Our goal to provide diverse, eclectic and educational programming makes us a truly unique organization."

Cornerstone program, Local Zone, incepted in 1988, airs weekly and aims to elevate local talent specifically, often broadcasting live shows from area venues.

Perhaps expected in alignment with the cool factor of college radio (yet, unexpected in the overwhelming world of digital media), WUVT still prefers to play physical media – records and CDs – and has an entire room, with floor to ceiling shelving, dedicated to such archives.

Highlander Radio

Across the river, Radford University's Highlanders are running their own show. WVRU began broadcasting

in October of 1978 (under call letters, WRRC) with studio soundproofing courtesy of wall-mounted shag carpeting. Classical music was broadcast four hours a day and was part of the music department's curriculum. Today WVRU is a proud affiliate of Public Radio International (PRI) and a member of Virginia Public Radio (VPR).

The shag carpet has been replaced by shiny new studio space in Hemphill Hall, managed by two fulltime and 10 student staff members all mirroring professional radio station jobs. Their two main formats are jazz and "Triple A," which is best described as singer-songwriters, "college indy" and music from independent labels. "There is a movement in public radio nationwide to find programming that appeals to a younger demographic. We're supposed to have goals to educate our listeners but because we're on a university campus, we have a dual goal to educate our students, too. The Triple A format is a great way to bring those sides together," states Ashlee Cloud, WVRU general manager.

Other shows include Jazz Cafe, Extensions (student-run programming), Radioland ("a themepark for your imagination"), and The Music Store (new tunes, old favorites and everything in between).

Justin Little, student operations manager, relates: "I appreciate the tradition. I love being able to do the same thing they were doing 100 years ago. It's just you and the microphone. There is an intimacy to it."

Connect and Listen

Radio provides a connection; an invisible, somewhat anonymous, affiliation from speaker to listener. As mentioned before, the power, influence and potential of radio –despite Brobdingnagian strides in video – continues to be unavoidable. And due to ever-regenerating college radio advocates, it's also continuously relevant.

"The reality is podcasts and audio books are more popular now than they've ever been. Those are different formats, but the same sort of industry," Little adds.

It's an industry built around the idea of closing our eyes and opening our imagination. These days, it's a rare opportunity to let our own thoughts round out the story, to complete the audio by creating our own video. This may not be the best execution when it comes to alien invasions but it's a pretty cool talent, nonetheless. All we have to do is listen.

Nancy S. Moseley is freelance writer from Blacksburg and during these interviews found it took great restraint not to bring up Christian Slater's cult classic movie, "Pump Up the Volume." She thinks - though she's OK with being wrong in this case - it most definitely would not have been cool.

WUVT - Virginia Tech

Listen: 90.7 FM

Call-in: 540-231-9888

www.wuvt.vt.edu

WVRU - Radford University

Listen: 89.9 FM

Call-in: 540-831-5171

www.radford.edu/content/wvru

The Six-Pack Super Bee

TTo the unaware, it sounds like a new brand of beer or a workout method to produce sculpted 6 pack abs. But to the car enthusiast, there’s no mistaking it. Officially, it’s a Dodge Coronet Super Bee Six-Pack. Unofficially, it’s a late 1960s mid-size muscle car with a unique hood cover designed for enhanced fresh air intake resulting in more power.

Introduced as the Dodge Super Bee in 1968, the vehicle sold as a Charger model in 1971. It was billed as offering an “ultra-high-performance vehicle that could serve as both a daily driver and a weekend warrior at the track or drag strip.” It was only produced for three years, but it’s coming back. A special edition 2023 Dodge Charger Super Bee is expected to roll off just 1,000 cars 500 Charger Scat Pack in B5 Blue and 500 Charger Scat Pack Widebody in Plum Crazy.

Jim Newberne of Blacksburg had been looking

for a high performing vehicle when he discovered this one for sale in Hemmings Motor News. It had been completely restored. He flew to Los Angeles to take a look and purchased it in April of 1995, exchanging his 1967 Charger and some cash for the Super Bee. He flew home, and the car made the road trip safely tucked into an enclosed trailer.

Unique 1969 ½ Year Model

“This special 1969 ½ year model Six-Pack Super Bee has a code,” Jim relates. “The package was called A12 or A12 M-code. My son-in-law, Scott Mattox, and I drove the car to the 50th anniversary of the A12 in Carlisle, Penn., four years ago [2019].” Readers will remember that Scott’s workhorse of a dump truck was featured in the MarchApril issue of New River Valley Magazine.

The three 2-barrel Holley carburetors gives it the

Text by Joanne M. Anderson

Photos by Tom and Christy Wallace

six-pack reference. The Super Bee name comes from the B body designation for mid-size cars like the Road Runner and Charger. A Dodge senior designer named Harvey J. Winn won a contest to name the new car Super Bee, modifying B to Bee, and a new logo was designed to match.

There were only 1,907 of the mid-year models produced. This innovative vehicle sports a 440-cubic-inch block and produces 390 horsepower and 490 pound-feet of torque. The transmission is a 4-speed manual with a Hurst shifter.

The unusual fiberglass hood cover is completely removed by sliding out four hood pin clips and lifting it away from the vehicle. Putting it back is not a 1- person task, but it’s not heavy and is easily lowered back on the T-clips and pinned in place.

“The car had 90,000 miles, and I’ve put on another 10,000 going to shows with it,” Jim states. “I had it painted professionally once, the same Hemi Orange original color, and I added the hubcaps. It came with all black steel wheels with lug nuts, and I prefer the look of the hubcaps with a matching orange stripe.” Hemi Orange is the color of the General Lee in the TV series “The Dukes of Hazzard”, though that was just a plain ol’ 1969 Dodge Charger.

Having retired from a 25-year career in radio, Jim travels to several car shows in Carlisle and has appeared at some NRV Cruise-Ins and the Charlotte Auto Fair at Charlotte Motor Speedway. His daily ride is a 2007 Buick or his Kawasaki Vulcan 1600.

The term Scat Pack refers to the car’s trim. It’s a combination of “get lost, scat” for its racing capacity and a play on Frank Sinatra’s “rat pack”. The group of powerful cars sold in the ‘60s – Dodge Coronet R/T, Dodge Charger R/T, Dodge Dart GTS – were affectionately dubbed “the hive”, from whence comes the Super Bee.

For a later Dodge to be included in the Scat Pack, it had to go ¼-mile in 14 seconds. Just for fun, note that it’s faster than a Quarter Horse, so named for covering ¼-mile in 21 seconds, also from standing still. This horse breed is a blend of the Chickasaw pony, known for superior speed and agility, and the refined and intelligent Thoroughbred, developed and famous for racing.

“The car had 90,000 miles, and I’ve put on another 10,000 going to shows with it,” Jim states.

“I had it painted professionally once, the same Hemi Orange original color, . . .

Annual Lavendar Festival

3899 Eakin Farm Road Blacksburg, VA Just 12 miles from downtown Blacksburg

Fun Family Outings for E.v.e.r.y.o.n.e!

Some of the best places with kids under 10

Compiled by Emily K. Alberts

Photo by Sean Shannon

1. Pandapas Pond. Make an easy loop around the pond and see how many birds, fish, salamanders, snakes and turtles you can spot.

2. Mountain Lake. Stroll the resort grounds, explore the landscape, play at the playground, and go for a short hike. Bald Knob is a great choice for young kids because it is short with a huge payoff. Treetop adventures is also a great way to build confidence and gel as a family while climbing, balancing and zip-lining together. There is a kid’s course and two adult courses, all varying in height and challenge levels.

3. Blacksburg Municipal Park (aka Hand N’ Hand Park aka “Caboose” Park aka the Aquatic Center aka the Skate Park…). Though it goes by many names, this park has one true mission and that is FUN! Make a splash at the indoor pool -- which has a shallow graded entry for even the smallest of swimmers, scoot/skate/bike around the bowl, or just run and play at any of three awesome playgrounds.

4. Radford Planetarium. The planetarium presents shows with different themes all week and is the most fascinating way to learn about space outside our planet. While you’re in the area, check out the Museum of the Earth Sciences, too.

5. Sinkland Farms You definitely want to pay attention to the calendar and bring the family to events like the Sunflower Festival and Pumpkin Festival. The entire fam will make lifelong memories. Delicious food, live music, games and rides (even horseback rides) keep you smiling all day long.

6. Wonder Universe. The exhibits at this children’s museum are brilliant, engaging and downright cool. This is not just a place for kids to play, it is a place for kids to explore how the world works.

7. Paint N’ Fun Ceramics. There is no better way to spend a calm, focused and relaxing afternoon with your child. This place has it covered (literally!), and all you need to do is show up and choose what to paint.

8. Bisset Park. Whether it’s tubing, riding around the new skate park, or just enjoying the playground, this park is the heart and soul of Radford.

9. Heritage Community Park and Natural Area. The walking paths are great, and there are huge hay bales to climb and jump. The designers of the kid’s area really hit it out of the park. Play in a life-sized bird house and write your name on it in chalk! Big place, 169 acres.

10. Price House Nature Center. Offering hands-on activities for kids to learn about all sorts of critters in the natural world, the center is every young child’s dream.

Some of the best places for kids 11 and up, teens included!

1. Floyd Country Store. This old-timey hangout has live music often, and the Friday Night Jamboree is not to be missed! The Jamboree operates on “Granny’s Rules” – no smoking, no drinking alcohol, no bad language, and you will see people of all ages cutting it up on the dance floor.

2. Crimper’s Climbing. Going stir-crazy on a rainy day? Bring your kids here for an afternoon learning the ropes. Don’t forget to bring chalk!

3. Claytor Lake State Park. Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, hiking or just putting your toes in the sand at the beach area, nothing beats Claytor Lake when it comes to finding the perfect little family getaway.

4. Blacksburg Axe Throwing and Arcade. This place is perfect for older kids to “throw off some steam” and there are a ton of different arcade games. With affordable prices, it’s hard to beat when it comes to bang for your buck.

5. Xtreme Springs. What’s more fun than a trampoline park? I learned to do a front flip here at 40 years old! ‘Nuff said.

6. Gatewood Reservoir. Possibly one of those bestkept secrets in the New River Valley. Camp here or go for a day. Boat rentals, no motors, nice hiking, fishing, kayaking and picnicking.

7. Cox’s Golf Driving Range. This picturesque and laid-back spot is a great place to hit some balls or play a round of mini-golf. Fun games in the lobby area.

8. NRV Superbowl and Arcade. Getting the gang together for a night of bowling is always a good time, especially when you add good food and good music to the mix.

9. Winterfrost Farm or Skyline Stables. An unforgettable way to spend the day, with views of the Pete Dye Golf Course wrapping around the river, super friendly horses, and a jovial and knowledgeable guide who will teach you all about the local flora and fauna.

10. B&B Theatres / Arcade. What an incredible venue. This megaplex has games, bowling, state-of-the-art theatres and some of the best food in town.

Compiled by Emily K. Alberts, who highly recommends checking out these spots, even if you are kid-free! Remember, adulting doesn’t have to mean meeting for drinks. #thinkoutsidethebar

Keeping Nomads on the Move

iIn the early spring of 2021, Luke Underwood had some issues with the electrical system in his 2008 Jayco Eagle 32-foot fifth wheel camper. He is naturally mechanicallyinclined, not born with any silver spoon in his mouth, but more likely a chrome wrench in his tiny hand. He figured out two things: (1) How to repair the electrical problem, and (2) he loved fixing it. So, he did what any brilliant entrepreneur does. He made a business out of something he is both skilled at and enjoys doing.

With a red toolbox and a blue lunchbox in his white Jeep, he began making his presence and repair services known in campgrounds in the area. At the same time, he dived into learning everything he could find about campers and recreational vehicles (RV). The business flourished quickly.

While some companies are releasing their brick and mortar presence for online or house calls, Luke found the

road from on-site camper and RV calls into the brick and mortar arena. He rented a bay from Radford Auto Auction, and when that wasn’t large enough, he moved into his own 4-bay building behind the Radford Travel Center at exit 109 off I-81, next to Tannahill Truck.

The Entrepreneur Gene

At the age of 12, Luke had his own lawn care business. When he met his wife, Madison, in Mrs. Epperly’s class at Christiansburg High School three years later, he told her right up front that he planned to have his own business. They fit like a matching nut and bolt because Madison is a powerhouse herself of energy and ambition.

Luke spent lots of time as a kid with his grandfather, Raymond Underwood, on his Floyd farm. Raymond owned and operated Underwood Chevrolet, and Luke admired

Text by Joanne M. Anderson Photos courtesy of Madison Underwood

[and inherited] his independent spirit, strong work ethic and ability to back up any trailer. “My grandfather taught me how to back up a trailer, and I never dreamed then how handy that skill would be in my own business,” Luke relates.

Madison has been running her own photography business since her teens [memoriesbymadison on Facebook] and works as a hair stylist and behind-the-scenes receptionist, bookkeeper, schedule master and organization linch pin at Luke’s business. She is the one who came up with the Nomadic Camper & RV Repair name.

Together, they are the Underwood Team at Gravity Real Estate, both are licensed REALTORS®. The couple has renovated a couple houses for rentals, and they live in Floyd with three dogs, one cat, some chickens and four pigs. They dated since they were 15 and have been married one year.

The Business Model

Luke, 23, is closing in on two years in business and loves all the challenges, which many of us find to be frustrations. “There’s something new every day, and it keeps me motivated,” he states. “The custom jobs are some of the most rewarding because the camper or RV owner is blown away with interior renovations like new carpet, new furnishings, fresh paint, new counters or fixtures and water damage repair. For many, this is totally their home away from home or their only home.”

Of course, other customers are equally thrilled with repairs like:

• roof sealing or replacement

• axle work

• trailer hitch installation

• HVAC fixes

• winterization measures

• slide-out mechanisms

• plumbing issues

• LP pressure tests

• Trailer brakes

• Plus more …

• And what started it all: Electrical systems

One of Luke’s goals was to bring a business to the New River Valley which was not here. He has four employees which they treat like family, enjoying cookouts together. “Luke worked in a couple factories and said if ever he had his own company, each individual would not be treated like a number on the wall,” Madison explains. And they usually have a job opening for another mechanical person. The small business is big already having partnered with some of the best suppliers in the camper and RV industry like Dometic, Carefree, Lippert, Dicor, Suburban, Meyers, AP Products and NTP. Luke is also a Ranch Hand dealer and B&W Hitch dealer. He has signed on with Keystone RV as a service center, and they do warranty and insurance work. As campers themselves, Luke and Madison bring a personal passion to Nomadic Camper and RV Repair. As homeowners, they understand keeping well-maintained rental property for a fair price. As REALTORS®, they keep their fingers on the pulse of the housing market across the New River Valley. And as entrepreneurs, they embody the consistent courage, ebullient enthusiasm and aspiring ambition for success.

Nomadic Camper & RV Repair

"It’s not the destination. It’s how you get there."

2399 Tyler Road, Christiansburg

Exit 109 off I-81

Open Monday-Friday, 9-5 p.m.

540-239-1085

nomadicrvcamperrepair@gmail.com

www.nomadiccamperrepair.com

Deer 411

People in the New River Valley are fortunate to live in an area surrounded by robust wildlife. However, it is important to be educated on the best practices for sharing a habitat with these wonderful creatures and how to coexist safely.

Ticks and icks

If you spend any time in the woods, or even just in tall grasses, you need to be aware of ticks. With the warming climate, we are seeing tick activity year round, including ticks that can hardly be seen with the naked eye and carry and transmit diseases like Lyme and Rickettsia. Pets often carry these pests indoors unknowingly, flinging them onto carpets and furniture as they rub and scratch. Having dogs and cats on flea and tick medicine is an essential part of keeping pets and people safe.

If you see a tick that has embedded, carefully remove it with tweezers, trying to get the head of the tick with it. Cleansing the area with alcohol afterward can cut down on tickborne diseases drastically. People who get Lyme disease often do not remember seeing a tick, so keep an eye out for the tell-tale bulls-eye rash. If you see this type of rash, it’s wise to go to a doctor and get on doxycycline, stat.

Driving tips

It is almost as common to see a deer carcass on the side of the road as it is to see a squirrel in some parts of the NRV. High speed collisions with deer can be fatal – for deer and people. Not only can a deer come through the windshield and strike the driver or passenger, but if the driver slams the brakes prior to impact, the front of the car can dip down and launch the deer into the air and pose a threat to other drivers.

Some drivers have ample time to slow down and avoid a collision with a deer. But if you don’t spot the deer until it is too late, it can be better to brace yourself for impact than to hard brake or swerve at a high speed. Deer are more active and near roads at or around dawn and dusk.

Text by Emily K. Alberts

Feed or no

Deer are getting less and less fearful of humans with every passing day. Many will come and eat right out of your hand! Even though this experience can be amazing, it is not a good idea to feed deer. Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is on the rise in deer, and because the disease is so contagious, feeding deer accelerates the spread of CWD because it causes deer to congregate.

Feeding young deer can also create problems, especially male deer or stags. When bucks enter puberty, they get rather feisty, and without a healthy fear of humans, they may engage someone in a “duel” once their antlers come in! This never ends well for the human.

When to call

If you see a deer that appears injured or sick, or a fawn that seems to have lost its mother, the best course of action is to leave the deer alone and quickly call the SWVA Wildlife Center, (540) 798-9836. If you follow your heartstrings and “rescue” a baby deer, the mother may reject the deer once it has been touched by humans (like with birds). Oftentimes these young fawns are perfectly fine - and mama is just around the corner foraging for food. It is also good to know that fawns like to lie in the middle of the road sometimes because the warm asphalt feels good on their skin. You may gently guide them out of the road using a stick, etc. so they are not in danger but try to avoid touching them, as tempting as it may be.

The hunt

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources is the perfect place to find out anything and everything you could ever care to know about hunting deer. There are important laws regarding when to hunt, what to hunt (does/bucks/size), how many deer per season, who can hunt (age limits) and what weapons are legal for hunting. These laws vary vastly by area, so be sure you are reading the right info for your location. Even topics like what to wear and whether or not your dogs can join you are covered.

Hunters play a vital role in keeping the deer population under control. Deer are getting smarter about staying away from places where they can be legally hunted, finding their way onto private lands and into neighborhoods where they can only be hunted with permission from the property owner. This might explain the lengths hunters are having to go to bag a deer, like camouflage, tree stands and boatloads of patience.

Once you do “bag a buck”, as they say, know in advance what to do with it. Make sure you have helpers for loading and you know of a reputable deer processing center nearby -- or do it yourself if you’re so inclined. Deer meat (venison) is a wonderful local food resource, and many hunters who have more than enough donate to local food banks.

NRV-based freelance writer Emily K. Alberts thinks we should all try switching to venison for Thanksgiving! It’s good AND good for you, and a great way to keep our local deer population under control.

See & Do NEW RIVER VALLEY

Best wardrobe pieces: Long pants, short pants, cargo pants, long flouncy skirts, long beads, ball caps and rim hats, tee shirts, layers, windbreaker and raincoat with hoods. Array of footwear and slippers for morning coffee and tea on the porch.

What to eat fresh: Herbs and greens, cucumbers, asparagus, cherries, blackberries, homemade artisan bread, anything off the grill.

In-your-car essentials: Lawn chairs, old quilt, outdoor snack supplies like cups, straws, napkins, paper towels, paper plates. First aid kit, umbrella, poncho. Wet wipes, bottled water, non-perishable snack bars.

Places to go: Remove the Fairs, Festivals, Events & Family Fun pages from this issue. Gather around the kitchen table. Circle everything someone likes. Add each event to your calendar and GO.

Unique ideas:

It’s a one-stop kind of experience at Bonomo’s Plaza. Ladies can get a new outfit and accessories and get their nails done, while guys drink coffee, eat pizza or Brazilian fare and everyone can enjoy a sub or Starbucks treat.

Try hanging out at Iron Tree Brewing in Christiansburg. It’s the kind of place which firmly believes good beer and good company go hand in hand. The Seltzerita is one of those accidental discoveries than turned out terrific.

The thrill of kayaking, fishing, paddleboarding and canoeing on the New River is double the fun when Tangent Outfitters arranges all the details and your job is to show up and enjoy the ride, the water and time away from pretty much everything.

Bring your entire calendar year of gift and home décor shopping to Pearis Mercantile. It’s cliché to say, we know, but there really is something for everyone here, plus a plethora of hiker supplies.

If you are looking to buy, sell or invest in property, Nest Realty can be your new best friend. Their experience and expertise can guide you, advise you and get you into or out of a property.

And should you not be intent on selling your house, but just need to get away, do the NRV staycation thing at Walnut Grove Farm Rental in Newport in Giles County. Large house, large rooms, large porch, large on laid-back, countrystyle relaxation.

a simple guide to this “magazine season” which is May + June

Photo courtesy of Virginia Tourism Corporation

Fairs, Festivals, Events & Family

Fun Spring - Summer - Fall

Farmer Markets & Community Social Sites

Radford

1122 E. Main St.

Saturdays, May - October

Draper Valley

Draper Mercantile

Saturdays, May – October

Pulaski

Historic Train Station

Tuesdays, May - October

Pearisburg

Wenanoh Ave.

Saturdays, May – October

Narrows

Monroe St.

Thursdays, May – October

Christiansburg

1600 N. Franklin St.

Thursdays, May - October

Floyd

203 S. Locust St.

Saturdays and Thursdays, May – December

Winter Market, January – April* [depending on weather and available produce]

www.floydfarmersmarket.org

Blacksburg

Draper and Roanoke St.

Saturdays, year round

Wednesdays, year round, hours vary seasonally

Corner Draper and Roanoke, Blacksburg

www.blacksburgfarmersmarket.com

Honky Tonk Thursdays

7 – 9 p.m.

Friday Night Jamboree

6:30 – 10 p.m.

Sunday Music Jam

1:30 – 6 p.m.

Old-time music, lots of stompin’ and dancin’, family-friendly

Floyd Country Store, Floyd

Starting in May

Each Saturday

Starlite Drive-in Flea Market

Several vendors, shopping and haggling

275 Starlight Drive

Christiansburg

May June

May 6

Annual Kids Fishing Day

Ages 3 to 15

Narrows Town Park, Narrows

May 13

Arts & Craft Show

Many crafts and artisans selling wonderful handcrafted pieces. New River Valley Fairgrounds, Dublin

May 12-14

West End Weekend

Jam-packed art-filled weekend, music, food, drink, family friendly environment

Glencoe Mansion Museum & Gallery, Radford

May 19 [12 noon-6 p.m.};

May 20 (9 a.m.-5 p.m.]

Broncos, Boats & BBQ

Rock House Marina, Dublin

May 20

Annual Brewridge Music Festival

Bands, beer and brats

Mountain Lake Lodge, Pembroke

May 20, 4 p.m.

Music and Merchants Festival

Town of Pulaski

May 28, 6:30 p.m.

Memorial Day

Patriots Cemetery Tour

Arranged by Wilderness Road

Regional Museum

Historic Newbern Cemetery

May 28, 1-4 p.m.

75th Anniversary

Claytor Lake State Park

Partnership event with state park and Wilderness Road Regional Museum

Christian-Cloyd Chimney

Claytor Lake State Park, Dublin

June 3-4

Pulaski County Lions Club

Flea Market

7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission & Parking FREE

NRV Fairgrounds, Dublin

June 10, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Claytor Lake Festival

Live music, car show, arts & crafts, food, fishing tournament, fireworks & more

Claytor Lake State Park, Dublin

June 8-11

Annual Henry Reed Memorial Celebration

Fiddle, banjo, music competitions, shows, workshops, kids tent

Kairos Resort, Glen Lyn

June 9-10 [Friday 6 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m.].

Annual Festival in the Park

Live music, crafts, food, carnival rides, history

Pearisburg Community Center

June 10 & 11, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Floyd Artisan Trail

Art studios open, galleries, farms, demos,

special events on backroads and in town

floydartcenter.org/artisan-trail

June 11, 1-4 p.m.

Loyalist in the Backcountry Living history presentation

Wilderness Road Regional Museum, Newbern

June 15, 6 p.m.

Cherokee Culture

Ren “Warrior Wolf” Herdman presenter Partnership event with state park and Wilderness Road Regional Museum

Waters Edge Meeting Facility

Claytor Lake State Park, Dublin

June 16-18

Rodeo Extravaganza for St. Jude’s New River Valley Fairgrounds, Dublin

June 17

Annual Summer Solstice Festival, 1-11 p.m.

Live music, midway games, children activities, food, beer garden, street performers & dog parade

Downtown Blacksburg

June 18

Juneteenth

Partnership event with Calfee

Cultural and Community Center

Wilderness Road Regional Museum, Newbern

June 22, 6-8 p.m.

Crooked Road Artisans

Music and Fun

Rock House Marina, Dublin

June 22-24

Spikenard Summer Festival

Learn and observe beekeeping up close and personal

Spikenard Farm Honeybee

Sanctuary, Floyd

June 24

Horse Show

New River Valley Fairgrounds, Dublin

June 23-25

"Dirty Dancing" Theme Weekend Dance lessons, dance parties and more

Mountain Lake Lodge, Pembroke

June 24, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Floyd House & Garden Tour

Stunning homes and gardens around Floyd County

Floydartcenter.org for tickets and map

June 24-25, noon-6 p.m.

Lavender Festival

Beautiful country setting, live music, wine, learn all about lavender

Beliveau Farm Winery, Blacksburg

July August

trucks, awesome kid zone, pop up boutiques, family fun to the max

Sinkland Farms, Route 8/ Riner Road, Christiansburg

August 4-5, 10 a.m.–10 p.m.

July 1, 4-6:30 p.m.

Spirit of America: Independence Day

Ceremony, celebration, food, music, vendors

Historic Smithfield, Blacksburg

4th of July Celebrations!

Parades, music, fanfare, flag waving and fireworks throughout the New River Valley celebrating independence and freedom

July 1-2, noon-6 p.m.

Lavender Festival

Beautiful country setting, live music, wine, learn all about lavender

Beliveau Farm Winery, Blacksburg

July 8

New River Valley Garden Tour, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Beautiful, local, lovingly tended gardens and grounds.

Tickets and map, mfrlfriends.org/ wp/garden-tour

July 6-8

Floyd Auto Fair

3-day swap meet

Chasing SS Cars on Facebook

New River Fairgrounds, Dublin

July 14-16

Sunflower Festival

Note: Friday, 4-8 p.m.; Sat-Sun 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

200,000 sunflowers! Vendors, food trucks, awesome kid zone, pop-up boutiques, family fun to the max

Sinkland Farms, Route 8/ Riner Road, Christiansburg

July 21-23

Sunflower Festival

Note: Friday, 4-8 p.m.; Sat-Sun 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

200,000 sunflowers! Vendors, food

July 24-28

Summer Camp

Eastern Woodland Theme

Wilderness Road Regional Museum, Newbern

July 24-29

New River Valley Fair

Livestock, food, rides, evening events, blast for everyone! New River Fairgrounds, Dublin

July 28-30

Sunflower Festival

Note: Friday, 4-8 p.m.; Sat-Sun 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

200,000 sunflowers! Vendors, food trucks, awesome kid zone, pop up boutiques, family fun to the max Sinkland Farms, Route 8/ Riner Road, Christiansburg

July 28-30

"Dirty Dancing" Theme Weekend

Dance lessons, dance parties and more

Mountain Lake Lodge, Pembroke

July 28-30

Mary Draper Ingles Festival

Honoring the legacy of one strong, resilient, determined frontier heroine, woman, activities, history, food and drink across three locations.

Glencoe Mansion, Ingles Farm, Longway Brewing, Radford

July 30–Aug. 3

Virginia Tech String Project Camp

For rising 2nd to 12th graders

New to strings or already playing, learn or sharpen skills and play at Steppin’ Out!

stringproject@vt.edu, 540-231-0416

Annual Steppin’ Out Festival

More than 150 booths, food, drink, live entertainment downtown merchants

Downtown Blacksburg

August 4-6

The Beekeeping Experience: Fall Gathering

Plans for fall and winter, explore bee’s ecosystem, open to Beekeepers including beginners

Spikenard Farm Honeybee

Sanctuary, Floyd

August 11-12

Newport Agricultural Fair

More than 80 years, oldest agricultural fair in VA. Kid rides, food, games, horse show, horse pull, live music. Saturday night fireworks.

Newport

August 12, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Pirate Festival

Come in pirate garb or not, pirate music, dancing and more Rockhouse Marina, Claytor Lake

August 25-27

"Dirty Dancing" Theme Weekend

Dance lessons, dance parties and more

Mountain Lake Lodge, Pembroke

August 26, 10th Anniversary Open House

3-7 p.m./concert begins 5 p.m.

Performances, art, children’s activities, learning, giveaways

Moss Arts Center, Blacksburg

September 9, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Floyd Livestock & County Fair

Celebrating agricultural heritage, livestock shows, demos, petting zoo, horseback rides, live music and more

Floyd Family Campground, 2697 Franklin Pike SE, Floyd

September 16-17, 7 a.m.-5 p.m.

Pulaski County Lions Club

Flea Market

Lots and lots of vendors, free admission and parking

NRV Fairgrounds, Rt. 100, Dublin

September 16, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

50th Kiwanis

Wilderness Trail Festival

Vendors, kids fun, music, food, classic cars, raffles, silent auction, craft demos

Downtown Christiansburg

September 16, 1–5 p.m.

Blacksburg Brew Do

Craft beer festival + wonderful food, live music

Historic Smithfield, Blacksburg

September 15-17

"Dirty Dancing" Theme Weekend

Dance lessons, dance parties and more

Mountain Lake Lodge, Pembroke

September 21-23

Fall Equinox Festival

Celebration of fall with special learning opportunities and fun events

Spikenard Farm Honeybee

Sanctuary, Floyd

September 22, 7:30 p.m.

Brentano String Quartet

Features leading violist and Julliard faculty member

Hsin-Yun Huang

Moss Arts Center, Blacksburg

September 23, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

NRV Sheep & Goat Festival

NRV Fairgrounds, Dublin

September 26, 7:30 p.m.

The Book of Life

Rwandan writer and activist shares life perspectives

Moss Arts Center, Blacksburg

September October

October Weekends

Pumpkin Festival

Live music, family activities, art & crafts, corn maze & hay rides, more! Sinkland Farms, Route 8/ Riner Road, Christiansburg

October 1, 7 p.m.

Mountain Stage with Kathy Mattea

Awesome radio show features performances by legends and newcomers to the country and bluegrass music scene

Moss Arts Center, Blacksburg

October 7, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Floyd County Arts & Crafts Festival

Floyd High School, Floyd

October 7, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Pearisburg Scarecrow Festival

Family fun with vendors, food, scarecrow contest and more Downtown Pearisburg

October 7, 7:30 p.m.

Arooj Aftab, Vijay Iyer, and Shahzad Ismaily

Love in Exile Trio

Three accomplished musicians forge a singular voice

Moss Arts Center, Blacksburg

October 8, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Jeeps, Jared & Jumbalaya

Rock House Marina, Dublin

October 9, 7:30 p.m.

Winona LaDuke

The Next Energy Economy

Native American grass-roots organizer and activist

Moss Arts Center, Blacksburg

October 12, 7 p.m.

Fire Parade

Town of Pulaski

October 12, 7:30 p.m.

Garage Dance Ensemble

Contemporary dance-theatre performance in English

Moss Arts Center, Blacksburg

October 14-15

Newbern Fall Festival

Vendors, arts and crafts, music, food, family fun

Hosted by the Newbern Volunteer Fire Dept

Main Street, Newbern

October 14

Radford Highlanders Festival

Heavyweight games, Celtic music, sheepherding, vendors, fun for all ages

Radford University Campus

October 19, 7:30 p.m.

Vox Luminis

Renowned Belgian early music

vocal and instrumental ensemble

Moss Arts Center, Blacksburg

October 27, 7:30 p.m.

Pink Martini featuring China Forbes

Vintage jazz vibes and a musical trip around the world

Moss Arts Center, Blacksburg

October 27-29

"Dirty Dancing" Theme Weekend

Dance lessons, dance parties and more

Mountain Lake Lodge, Pembroke

October 28

Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular Randolph Park, Pulaski

October 29

Hallowe’en, noon – 4 p.m.

Celebrate arrival of Fall, pumpkin patch, live music, sweet treats, demos

Historic Smithfield, Blacksburg

November 8-9, 7:30 p.m.

Seongbukdong

Beedoolkee Theatre

Innovative, contemporary theatre delivers a clever, original performance of the Greed tragedy Medea

Moss Arts Center, Blacksburg

November 16, 7:30 p.m.

Invoke

String quartet with banjo, mandolin, fiddle and voice reinvents classical music in traditional tunes across America

Moss Arts Center, Blacksburg

November 30, 7 and 9 p.m.

Deantoni Parks

Experimental composer and percussionist creates fascinating sonic experiences in progressive styles

Moss Arts Center, Blacksburg

December 2, 4 p.m.

Roanoke Symphony Orchestra

Holiday Pops Spectacular

Cherished tradition in a spirited holiday event

Moss Arts Center, Blacksburg

December 2, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Winterfest

Randolph Park, Pulaski

November 3, 7:30 p.m.

Javon Jackson with Nikki

Giovanni and Nnenna Freelon

Historic collaboration for an intimate jazz performance of Hymns, spirituals and gospel numbers

Moss Arts Center, Blacksburg

November 4, 7:30 a.m.

Eastern Divide Ultra Race

Pembroke

December 10, noon–4 p.m.

Yuletide

Holiday event with hot drinks, music, sweets, crafts and family photos

Historic Smithfield, Blacksburg

December 17, 4 p.m.

Blacksburg Master Chorale

Messiah

One of the most iconic works of the holiday season performed by more than 80 singers

Moss Arts Center, Blacksburg

Adventure awaits.

Presenting the

July 27th

Gates Open at 5 PM

Race Starts at 9 PM