Here’s a roundup of news briefs from around Southwest and Southside. Send yours for possible inclusion to news@cardinalnews.org.
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Harrison Museum to open in new location on Sunday
The Harrison Museum of African American Culture will hold a ribbon-cutting and open house for its new location in Melrose Plaza on Sunday, Feb. 1.
The event will be from 2-5 p.m. at 2502 Melrose Ave. in Roanoke.
Scheduled speakers include Roanoke Mayor Joe Cobb, board president Eric Beasley and executive director E.B. Smith.
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Wilderness Road State Park in Lee County to hold public meeting Feb. 3
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation and Virginia State Parks are hosting a public information meeting to discuss the master plan for Wilderness Road State Park.
The meeting will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 3, from 6 to 8 p.m., at the park’s visitor center located at 8051 Wilderness Road in Ewing in Lee County. A virtual option will also be offered.
Master plans are updated every 10 years and help guide park development and conservation. During the meeting, attendees will learn more about the master plan process and have the opportunity to ask questions.
The department advises: “Please note that future park plans will not be discussed at this time, as this meeting is intended solely to provide information about the master plan process.”
Visitors unable to attend the meeting in person can join virtually at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/wilderness-road-master-plan-meeting.
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Grant awarded for guitar maker in Tazewell County
The Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority has awarded a $10,000 Seed Capital Matching Grant to a guitar maker in Richlands.
“Rhythmic Restorations not only manufactures and sells custom guitars, but also offers new and used instruments for sale, as well as repair services,” said Jonathan Belcher, VCEDA executive director/general counsel in a statement. “The new business projects four full-time and three part-time employees within five years.”
The business is owned by Christopher and Whitney Blankenship.