I hope you enjoy my latest column, a collection of weekly short news updates and future events to look out for, and arriving in your inbox as part of our NRV newsletter on Mondays. Here’s my previous edition.
As your New River Valley reporter, I primarily cover Blacksburg, Christiansburg, Montgomery County and Radford, but plan to expand my reach throughout the rest of a bustling valley.
I aim to inform and meet people where they are at, but the valley is vast. So if you have thoughts on a developing story or ideas on how I can get to know your community better, you can reach me at erick@cardinalnews.org.
Affordable housing developments in Blacksburg will expand opportunities for residents to find affordable housing.
Stroubles Ridge and Airport Acres Townhomes will provide long-term affordable home purchase options for local income-qualified buyers, according to a town community relations news release.
The developments are part of the New River Home Trust, a community land trust serving Montgomery County and the New River Valley. It is one of the ways created to increase the affordable housing stock in the town.
“By expanding opportunities for stable, affordable homeownership, we’re supporting economic mobility and strengthening the fabric of our community,” said Housing and Community Connections Manager Kim Thurlow in the release.
An analysis of Blacksburg’s housing market by online real estate and rental marketplace Zillow estimates the current average home price at $425,635 — 2.8% higher than the previous year. The Stroubles Ridge and Airport Acres developments offer three‑bedroom homes for income‑qualified buyers earning 80% or less of the area median income.
Twenty homes are under construction at Stroubles Ridge and 11 at Airport Acres. Prices start at $230,000 and $250,000, respectively.
First public service scholarship goes to Pulaski County student
A Pulaski County High School student is the first recipient of an annual scholarship to support graduates pursuing a career in public service.
Colby Gill was presented the Sgt. Perry Hodge Memorial Scholarship at the annual Pulaski County Guns and Hoses Charity Softball Game at Calfee Park, according to a Pulaski County Public Schools Education Foundation news release. In partnership with nonprofit P.C. Hearts Behind the Badge, the scholarship honors the legacy of Sgt. Perry Hodge, who served 15 years as the former county sheriff’s deputy and school resource officer. He lost his life in a vehicle accident in 2021.
“Sgt. Perry Hodge dedicated his life to protecting our community and lifting up the students of Pulaski County,” said foundation Executive Director Chris Stafford. “Colby Gill carries that exact same spirit of service. From his academic achievements at PCHS to his active volunteer work with the fire department, Colby is already making our community a safer, better place.”
Gill plans to attend New River Community College (NRCC) this fall while also taking EMT classes at Radford University Carilion, according to the press release. His goal is to become a full-time firefighter.
Revamped restaurant opens at the Inn at Virginia Tech
Not new — but reimagined — the Inn at Virginia Tech announces the opening of The Loyal, kicking off its first fall season with a new executive chef.
Formerly the Preston’s Restaurant and Continental Divide Lounge, The Loyal — located in the hotel and conference center on the university’s campus — features a new menu influenced by Southern comfort and the “vibrant flavors of summer,” according to a news release from Spotted MP, a marketing and public relations firm representing the hotel.
Executive Chef Edwin Scholly was trained in Europe, completing an apprenticeship with chef Paul Bocuse in Lyon, France, and later earned his German Master Chef certification from The Hotel School of Heidelberg in Germany — going on to have a career in renowned places such as the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Marriott Luxury and the White House, according to the release. In Blacksburg, Scholly plans to bring a passion for farm-to-table presentation and fresh ingredients to elevate the dining experience.
“The Loyal honors its name by creating space for new residents to connect with, alumni to return, and traditions to be preserved,” according to the release. The restaurant will be open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and the bar hours are from 4 p.m. until the eatery’s close.
