Blue Ridge Fudge Lady

Blue Ridge Fudge Lady Featured on Fox Business

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A Virginia’s New River Valley favorite, the Blue Ridge Fudge Lady (aka Robin Burdette), was featured on FoxBusiness last week.

Burdette went from Cybersecurity professional, to pursuing a practical passion project: opening her own chocolate shop.

Watch the video:

Read more from Emily DeCiccio from FoxBusiness.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

volvo manufacturing day

WDBJ: Volvo Invites Pulaski County Students to Experience the Future of Manufacturing

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FROM WDBJ – Middle school students from Pulaski County got a closer look at the manufacturing industry.

Volvo opened its doors to them for National Manufacturing Day. Students got to see firsthand what careers in the industry look like. They also had some fun building mini Volvo trucks.

The company says they want to show students that they can be successful right in their hometown.

“We manufacturers spend a lot of time trying to convince suppliers, employees from around the world to come here to the New River Valley because its super cool, but we don’t tell our own kids. So I think this is a good time to do so,” plant manager, Franky Marchand, said.

Watch video coverage from WDBJ.

NRV video

Virginia’s New River Valley Video Receives Incredible Organic Response

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VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – Onward New River Valley released a video to aid in the cultivation of the regional brand at the organization’s annual dinner Thursday, Sept. 20. The video organically hit 1,000 shares and over 56,000 views in about one week on Facebook alone. It also reached over 128,000 people.

The social response to the video is overwhelmingly positive. Some of the comments on the Virginia’s New River Valley Facebook post include:

  • “Don’t come here to change this place… come here to let this place change you!!”
  • “Best place I ever lived! I miss it every day!!”
  • “Ok so looks like I’m moving there”
  • “Makes me feel homesick. Excellent representation in the video. Job well done”

    • The video, which was made with Nightfire Productions, is resonating with people who love the New River Valley and reaching those who may be hearing about it for the first time.

    “It’s important to note that this initial response was garnered completely organically,” said Onward NRV Marketing Manager Abigail Hammack. “This means we didn’t pay for any sort of advertising. People are going out of their way to share it, which means they like it. It means we were able to capture the culture of Virginia’s New River Valley through the video. Now it’s easier not just for us, but also for people, businesses, and organizations to share this great place with the world.”

    The overwhelming response is proof that place attachment is an important concept in economic development. Place attachment is an emotional connection a person has to a certain place. The goal of the video is to foster a sense of place attachment for Virginia’s New River Valley and the response is proof that it’s working.

    “A primary goal of economic development is to influence people to choose one community over another. Whether it’s a company looking to relocate or an individual considering a move, an emotional connection to a place can positively affect that decision. This video helps capture the feeling of why so many people have chosen to live, work, and do business in Virginia’s New River Valley. We hope people throughout the NRV will continue to help share the video and use it to showcase what is so special about our region.”

    Footage in the video includes businesses, towns, scenic hot spots, and local favorites around the region. The full list of locations is posted on the video webpage.

    For more information about the video or Onward NRV, please contact Marketing Manager Abigail Hammack at abigail@onwardnrv.org.

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    Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

    Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

    New River Valley Video

    Onward NRV Releases New Regional Video

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    NEW RIVER VALLEY, VA – Onward New River Valley is proud to release a brand new video showcasing the unique culture and assets of Virginia’s New River Valley.

    The New River Valley video, which was created with Nightfire Productions, is a culmination of input from people and companies all over the NRV. It encompasses the culture of our area, while showcasing some of the unique assets in the region.

    The video features the Virginia’s New River Valley branding created with Eddy Alexander, which Onward NRV has been working to rollout over the past year. The video is the latest effort to cultivate and nurture the brand.

    “We’re incredibly proud to release the New River Valley video,” said Onward NRV Executive Director Charlie Jewell. “This video expresses and adds to the emotional attachment that people have to the NRV. It was created as a concerted effort to effectively brand Virginia’s New River Valley. We hope you enjoy what we believe is an excellent representation of the NRV and that you share it with everyone you know.”

    Like the video? Make sure everyone sees it by sharing on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn!

    For a complete list of locations in the video, or to embed it on your site, visit the video web page.

    For more information, contact Onward NRV Marketing Manager, Abigail Hammack at abigail@onwardnrv.org.

    Downtown Pulaski, VA Street Sign

    Bringing Downtown Pulaski Back to Life

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    Downtown Pulaski is on the up and up. The gorgeous, historic main street is about to experience some major upgrades.

    The “Pilot Project” by West Main Development is now underway.

    This project represents over $2.5 million of investment from the West Main Development, LLC, Virginia Housing Development Authority, Department of Housing Community Development, First Bank and Trust, Virginia Community Capital, and other funding sources.

    West Main has plans to start with a few major projects.

    Downtown Pulaski VA, Crescent City Cafe

    Crescent City Cafe will open in about eight months at the adjacent storefronts at 85 and 89 West Main Street. The New Orleans style restaurant will feature fresh beignets and a stage for live music. 87 West Main Street is above the cafe and will be turned into two, two-bedroom apartments.

    At 94 West Main Street, the building’s ground floor will be a virtual reality venue that plans to attract local students and tourists. The second floor will also be turned into two apartments.

    The project was officially announced at what organizers called a “sledge hammer and hard hat ceremony,” before an official ribbon cutting, which will occur when the businesses open.

    The event was attended by many supporters who are excited to see what’s next for Downtown Pulaski, including Delegate Chris Hurst and representatives from the offices of Senator Kaine and Congressman Morgan Griffith.

    All Speakers:

    The ultimate goal is to fully bring the Town of Pulaski’s main street back to life; to make it the place to be.

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    Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

    Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

    NRV number 17 best college town

    NRV Named #17 Best College Town by AIER

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    VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – The Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford MSA (known as the New River Valley) was ranked the number 17 best college town in America (2017) by the American Institute for Economic Research. The NRV is home to over 40,000 students thanks to Virginia Tech, Radford University, and New River Community College.

    NRV best college town
    “It should come as no surprise that Virginia Tech supplies Blacksburg with high levels of innovation. In terms of bars and restaurants, ask any Tech student and they’ll tell you to head downtown to T.O.T.S., Gillie’s, or Sharkey’s for some amazing brews and grub. The MSA of Blacksburg also includes Radford University, a key player in the regional economy.”

    AIER compiled the Best College Town results based on economic, demographic, and quality of life data points. Each “college town” has a population of less than 250,000.

    AIER also gave the NRV the number 3 ranking for bars and restaurants.

    Virginia Tech and Radford University often receive accolades and top rankings for their academic programs and fun atmospheres. Most recently, Virginia was ranked as the #15 Best College Tailgate in the U.S.

    For more info about the other college rankings, visit AIER.

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    Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

    Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

    Nanosonic, NRV job market, NRV top job market in US

    The NRV Named a Top 10 Job Market by USA Today

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    VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – The Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford MSA (also know as Virginia’s New River Valley or the NRV) was named the #6 Top Job Market in the U.S. according to USA Today, yesterday.

    NRV Job Market a top job market in the US

    The ranking was created by Zippia, a job search site that used data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Zippia looked at wages, unemployment, and current jobless rates.

    “These metro areas are home to growing, well-paying jobs,” said Chris Kolmar, Zippia’s head of marketing. “These are the metros that have seen bigger decreases in unemployment and increases in wages than competing metros.”

    Virginia’s New River Valley is an excellent place to live and work and has been consistently recognized as such. Other recent acknowledgments include:

  • “Best of the Mountains” 16 Times
  • #11 Best Place to Work in Manufacturing
  • Top Affordable Metro Attracting YPs
  • #10 in High Tech Employment Concentration

    • The NRV has an excellent workforce that is fueled by great higher education institutions like Virginia Tech, Radford University, and New River Community College. Plus, the endless lifestyle amenities make it an excellent place to live.

    For more information, visit Virginia’s New River Valley.

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    Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

    Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

    VA Best of Blue Ridge

    A Whopping 16 NRV Favorites Named “Best of the Mountains”

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    Virginia’s New River Valley was not mentioned once or twice, but rather 16 times in Blue Ridge Country Magazine’s “Best of the Mountains.” From hiking trails to wineries, the NRV has some great places to visit… and readers agree. Check out how the NRV ranked:

    #1 Favorite Waterfall: The Cascades

    NRV Best of the Mountains, Favorite Waterfall, The Cascades

    This 70 ft. waterfall attracts almost 150,000 visitors each year. This easier hike has a beautiful payoff and visitors agree.

    #1 Best Hiking Trail (Non-AT): New River Trail

    #1 Best Biking Trail: New River Trail

    NRV Best of the Mountains, New River Trail Bridge

    This rail to trail system runs over 57 miles in Virginia’s New River Valley and is a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

    #1 Best Farm to Visit: Sinkland Farms

    #1 Best Place to Hear Mountain Music: FloydFest

    #1 Best Music Festival: FloydFest

    NRV Best of the Mountains, FloydFest

    For great music and free hugs, FloydFest is the place to be. It is consistently named a top music festival and won 3 “Best of the Mountains” awards.

    #1 Best Mountain Winery: Chateau Morrisette

    #2 Best Fishing Lake or River: New River

    #2 Best Rail to Trail System: New River Valley Trail

    #2 Best Country Store: Floyd Country Store

    #2 Best Quirky Festival: FloydFest

    #3 Town on My Bucket List: Floyd, VA

    #3 Best Fishing Lake or River: Claytor Lake

    #4 Favorite State Park: Claytor Lake State Park

    A Top Favorite Historic Theater: Lyric Theater

    NRV Best of the Mountains, The Lyric, Blacksburg

    The Lyric Theater is a restored hot spot for not only blockbuster and indie movies, but also live speakers and performers.

    Person Making a Difference in the Mountains: Woody Crenshaw

    NRV Best of the Mountains, Woody Crenshaw

    Crenshaw has done a lot for Floyd County including renovating the Floyd Country Store, and spearheading the Floyd Town Revitalization Project.

    Check out more of the rankings from Blue Ridge Country.

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    Virginia’s New River Valley: For those searching for an inspiring place to live and do business, Virginia’s New River Valley provides both an eclectic small town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative business community with a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. Offering the best of all worlds – magnificent mountains, cutting-edge research, arts, entertainment, and education – it’s A NATURAL FIT.

    Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

    10 Things to Do in the NRV This Summer

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    Note:
    July 8, 2021: This blog post, which was originally published in May 2018, was updated to reflect current information about the summer activities on this list.

    New River Valley, VA – Whether you’re a student, a long-term resident, or anything in between, Virginia’s New River Valley has no shortage of summer activities. Explore every part of the region and check out these 10 things to do in the NRV this summer.

    1. Adventure at Mountain Lake Lodge

    Mountain Lake Lodge - Things to do in the NRV

    Check out the Adventure Center at Mountain Lake Lodge in Giles County for endless summer fun. Zip through the Appalachian mountains on a Treetop Adventure, test your survival skills with an Escape Room challenge, or play Archery Tag with your closest family and friends. (photo by Alissa Moody)

    2. Chateau Morrisette

    Chateau Morrisette - Things to do in the NRV

    Enjoy the grounds of this third-generation winery with friends, family, and even your pup (dogs are welcome!). Order a flight to explore new wines or sip a favorite blend while enjoying the outdoor seating and beautiful views of Floyd County.

    3. Claytor Lake

    Claytor Lake – Things to do in the NRV

    Swim, boat, or fish at Claytor Lake State Park in Pulaski County this summer. Enjoy the beach and seasonal snack bar, the full-service marina, picnic spots, hiking trails, and more.

    4. Float the New River from Bissett Park

    Bisset Park - Things to do in the NRV

    You can float, boat, paddle, or fish the New River from many spots in the NRV, but Bisset Park in the City of Radford is a good place to start. Bring your own equipment or rent from a local outfitter when you arrive. Float awhile and they’ll pick you up to start again.

    5. Floyd Country Store Friday Night Jamboree

    Floyd Country Store - Things to do in the NRV

    The Floyd Country Store is a nationally renowned country store and music venue in Floyd. It “has become a traditional gathering place for musicians, dancers, and visitors from all over the world.” The Jamboree happens every Friday night at 6:30 pm with different featured musicians.

    6. Hahn Horticulture Garden

    Hahn Horticulture Garden - Things to do in the NRV

    The Hahn Horticulture Garden is almost six acres of beautiful gardens on the Virginia Tech campus in Montgomery County. Experience tranquil water gardens, shade gardens, and plants galore! You can even check out special events and exhibits like Art in the Garden.

    7. Hike the Cascades

    The Cascades - Things to do in the NRV

    A classic hike in Virginia’s New River Valley, Cascade Falls is a moderate hike with amazing views. The 69-foot falls are flanked by even taller cliff walls. This Giles County treasure was recently listed among the top five scenic family hikes in Virginia.

    8. Moss Arts Center

    Moss Arts Center - things to do in the NRV

    The Moss Arts Center at Virginia Tech welcomes performances that range from classical music to dance to stand-up comedy. The art galleries are open Wednesday – Saturday and feature various art exhibitions to explore. Click here to see the calendar of upcoming events.

    9. Pulaski River Turtles Game at Calfee Park

    Pulaski Yankees - things to do in the NRV

    Head over to historic Calfee Park in Pulaski for a family-friendly River Turtles baseball game. Newly renamed in 2021, the River Turtles are part of the Appalachian League. This is an action-packed NRV experience you don’t want to miss.

    10. Radford University Planetarium

    RU Planetarium - Things to do in the NRV

    Beat the heat and still experience nature! School is out, but the Radford University Planetarium is still up and running. Please note that as of Summer 2021, the Planetarium is in a “wait-and-see mode” due to COVID-19 case numbers and vaccination rates. Refer to the upcoming show times list here to see when the planetarium will be open.

    Find more things to do each day on our Community Calendar powered by Next3Days.

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    Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small-town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

    Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

    New NRV Community Pages Now Live

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    NEW RIVER VALLEY, VA – Onward NRV has officially published new NRV community pages that showcase each county and city in the region. Each page can be accessed by hovering over the “Our Region” tab or visiting the “Our Region” page.

    “The new and improved community pages on our regional website do a great job communicating the uniqueness of each community in our region,” said Onward NRV Marketing Manager Abigail Hammack. “We’re excited to release another resource full of information about what makes Virginia’s New River Valley an inspiring place to live, work, and do business.”

    Onward NRV staff worked closely with local government, chamber, and tourism staff to ensure that each community was accurately represented.

    The five pages are linked below:

  • Floyd County
  • Giles County
  • Montgomery County
  • Pulaski County
  • City of Radford

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    Virginia’s New River Valley: For those searching for an inspiring place to live and do business, Virginia’s New River Valley provides both an eclectic small town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative business community with a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. Offering the best of all worlds – magnificent mountains, cutting-edge research, arts, entertainment, and education – it’s A NATURAL FIT.

    Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.