Ret ire ment
The ABCs of Retiring in the NRV
Text by Jennifer Poff Cooper Aquatic centers. Both Christiansburg and Blacksburg claim aquatic centers, with Christiansburg featuring a premier pool where high school and college level swim and dive meets are held. For retirees, of more interest might be the soothing exercise of water aerobics and a place to entertain grandchildren year-round. Buildings pepper New River Valley streets with abundant churches and steeples representing many faith traditions. History in architecture is evident in downtown buildings, train depots, museums, houses and college campuses. Cost of living is reasonable at only 2% above the national average (Forbes, 2016). The Climate is mild with summer temperatures in the 70s and 80s, and 36
NRV MAGAZINE
winter temps 20s and 30s. On average, the area receives 40 inches of rain and 23 inches of snow each year. All four seasons show their splendorous wonder in the New River Valley. Downtowns have interesting restaurants, boutiques, specialty shops, vibrant art scenes, farmer’s markets for local artisans and producers to sell and a variety of fairs and festivals. Environmentalism is important to NRVers, whether it is individuals purchasing shares in the Glade Road Growing CSA (community-supported agriculture), other CSAs or the Sustainable Blacksburg non-profit that hosts an educational Sustainability Week and other stewardship events. Football is Fall’s biggest ticket [in
a non-pandemic year]. Hokies descend on the town for tailgating, the iconic “Enter Sandman” entrance and the games. Oldsters gather together to watch games on TV and cheer their favorite teams. Fall colors are abundant, for a guide on Leaf Peeping, see page 32. Geriatric support organizations create comfort in later years. There is home care from several assisted living places like Warm Hearth at Home. The Micah’s Soup for Seniors program brings food the last week of each month when money may be running low. Life enrichment opportunities include socializing, games, trips and education. Housing runs the gamut with luxury apartments, condos, townhouses, homes with character, homes in planned
S eptemb er/Octob er 2020
