Downtown Holiday Shopping Guide

19 Dec bumpersticker

FREE PARKING at all metered spaces now through January 3 makes it even easier to make Downtown Blacksburg your holiday shopping destination this year!

Great gifts for all are available in our downtown stores, so we have put together this brief guide to what you will find, where and when. And if you are still stuck on what to buy the person who has everything you can purchase Downtown Gift Certificates from the downtown branch of National Bank of Blacksburg.Now you can also purchase gift certificates and Blacksburg t-shirts and prints online at:Downtown Merchandise
Gift certificates are redeemable at over 60 participating businesses- you can get everything from a massage to a smart phone; from dinner in one of our many restaurants to a frozen treat in Rita’s or the Frosty Parrot; from shoes to tea services; clothing to snow boards!


Holiday Shopping Specials- Please note- all of our stores are CLOSED on Christmas Day

310 Rosemont- Uggs are in- Uggs slippers and boots make great gifts!
OPEN Mon-Friday- 11am-6pm, Christmas Eve-10am-3pm

Alligator Alley- Buy one get one half off on many items throughout the store
OPEN Mon- Friday- 11am-5pm, Christmas Eve- 11am-4pm

Beaux Arts Galleria- Holiday Sale 30% off online and in store orders
OPEN Monday–Friday 10am–6pm,or by appointment.

Bike Barn-Monday- All 2011 bicycles are 20% off. Emotion Kayaks are being sold AT COST.25% of bikes are Reduced!!
OPEN Tues-Thurs- 10am-5:30pm, Friday- 10am-6:30pm, Christmas Eve- 9:30am-5pm

Blacksburg Pipe and Tobacco- Many specials PLUS the great prices we have on all our products.
OPEN Mon- Friday-10am-6pm, Christmas Eve-10am-4:30pm

Bookholders-20% off all apparel
OPEN Mon- Thurs- 9am-8pm, Friday 10am-8pm, Christmas Eve- CLOSED

Campus Emporium-Sugar Bowl items now in! Special sale prices on many items throughout the store.
OPEN Mon- Friday- 9:30am-7:30pm, Christmas Eve- 9:30pm-3pm

Capone’s Fine Jewelry- 15% off Citizen watches. Holiday Hospitality Room offers a little extra pampering while you shop!
OPEN Mon- Thurs- 10am-6pm, Friday- 10am-6pm, Christmas Eve- 10am-5pm

Clothes Rack-Summer Dresses are on sale!! Buy Local- an eclectic shop for all of your eclectic needs!
OPEN Mon-Friday- 11am-7pm, Christmas Eve- 11am-4pm

Community Arts Information Office (CAIO)- Gifts of Art by Blacksburg Regional Arts Association
OPEN Mon-9am-3pm, Tues- 9am-3pm,& 4pm-6pm, Weds- 9am-3pm & 4pm-6pm,Thursday- 9am-3pm, Friday-4-6pm

Eats Natural Foods- Everyone’s a member on Christmas Eve & will receive 15% off. Live Local t-shirts on sale here!
OPEN Mon- Friday- 10am-8pm, Christmas Eve- 10am-5pm

Fringe Benefit- Follow the sparkles to great deals throughout the store, amazing accessories available!
OPEN Mon- Friday- 10am-8pm, Christmas Eve- 9am-4:30pm

Gourmet Pantry- Wine Tasting on Christmas Eve 12-4pm
OPEN Mon- Friday 10am-8pm, Christmas Eve 10am-5pm

Greenhouse Boardshop- Exclusive VT Flip flops here as well as all your boarding needs! Live Local t-shirts on sale here!
OPEN Mon- Friday- 10am-8pm, Christmas Eve- 10am-6pm

Heavener Hardware- Always great gifts for the home and the tool lover in your life! Live Local & Steppin’ Out t-shirts on sale here!
OPEN Mon-Friday- 7:30am-6pm, Christmas Eve CLOSED

Heirloom Originals-Antiques, gifts and originals- something for everyone!
OPEN Mon-Friday 10:30am to 4:30pm, Christmas Eve- 10:30am to 5:00pm

High Peak Sportswear -Your best source for t-shirts, golf shirts, hats, and all types of imprinted apparel and gift items!
OPEN Mon- Friday- 10am-5pm, Christmas Eve -10am-3pm

Homebody- 20% off all clothing and don’t forget the Elephant Poop Paper!
OPEN Mon-Friday 10:30-7pm, Christmas Eve- 11:30am-2pm

John’s Camera Corner- Always a great deal and if it is still here on Christmas Eve it’s on SALE
OPEN Mon-Friday- 10am-5:30pm, Christmas Eve-10am-2pm

Kent Jewelers-New Pandora Inventory now in!
OPEN Mon- Friday- 10am-7pm, Christmas Eve- 10am-5pm

Mad Dog- Coats 40% off  Sweaters 30% off
OPEN Mon- Friday- 10am-7pm, Christmas Eve- 10am-2pm

Matrix Gallery-A wide variety of pottery, glass, jewelry, wood, leather, candles and more
OPEN Mon- Friday-10:30am-7pm, Christmas Eve- 10:30am-4:30pm

Mish Mish- Many sales including easels, starter kits and paint sets. Live Local t-shirts & George Wills Downtown prints on sale here!
OPEN Mon- Friday- 9am-6pm, Christmas Eve- 10am-4pm

Tech Bookstore-33% off ALL VT clothing and gifts
OPEN Mon-Friday-9am-5pm, Christmas Eve- 10am-5pm

Ten Thousand Villages-Fair trade international craft supplier. Crafts from around the world from an ethical supplier. Located inside Fringe Benefit.
OPEN Mon- Friday- 10am-8pm, Christmas Eve- 9am-4:30pm

The 6 PAK Store at The Cellar- Christmas Ales are now in!
OPEN Mon-Friday- 11am-12midnight, Christmas Eve- CLOSED

Wireless Zone- 25% off all accessories including blue tooth, chargers and more, plus many specials on Christmas items
OPEN Mon- Friday- 10am-7pm, Christmas Eve- 10am-2pm

While you are shopping don’t forget to stop in one of our wonderful restaurants, services or the Lyric Theatre to enjoy the full downtown experience! Full list of downtown businesses may be found at www.downtownblacksburg.com

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Tags: , , , ,

Top Ten reasons to shop downtown!

16 Dec

10. Product Diversity- a multitude of small businesses, each selecting products based, not on a national sales plan, but on their own interests and the needs of their local customers, guarantees a much broader range of product choices.

9. ELEPHANT POOP PAPER!

8. Protect Local Character and Prosperity. By choosing to support locally owned businesses, you help maintain our diversity and distinctive flavor.

7.The Farmers Market is downtown!

6. Community Well-Being
Locally owned businesses build strong neighborhoods by sustaining communities, linking neighbors, and by contributing more to local causes. When you come downtown you will always bump into friends!

5. Bella,Sapphire, & Bradley the “mascot” dogs resident in Capone’s Fine Jewelry and Mad Dog and Heirloom Originals!

4. Keeping Dollars in the Local Economy
Your dollars spent in locally-owned businesses have three times the impact on your community as dollars spent at national chains. When shopping locally, you simultaneously create jobs, fund more town services through sales tax, invest in neighborhood improvement and promote community development.

3. You can stop and eat in one of the many fabulous restaurants and see a movie in the beautiful Lyric Theatre!

2. Public Benefits and Costs
Local stores in town centers require comparatively little infrastructure and make more efficient use of public services relative to big box stores and strip shopping malls………..

……and the # 1 reason to shop downtown for the holidays…..

1. FREE PARKING at all metered spaces through January 16!

Watch this video- Shop Downtown for the holidays!

Tell us why you love to shop downtown in the comments section below!

Tags: , , , , , ,

Down on the camera corner….

15 Dec

Post written by Tracy Watson
It is said that every picture has a story.  If that is true, then John Kline can probably tell it.  Ask him about the antique slot machine he traded for photographing a wedding, or about taking pictures of mining equipment seven levels down.  John Kline has seen and documented many changes since he first grabbed a camera so long ago.  Nowhere in Blacksburg will you find a better, more tangible record of the history of photography or of our town.

John has had a camera in his hands for as long as he can remember. His first camera, a Brownie Reflex, was his companion as a boy scout while he learned about the world around him. At Blacksburg High School he spent many late nights in the dark room as the school’s photograph editor. His summers were spent in the Virginia Tech photo lab. Even his years in the Navy were spent with a camera in hand.

John’s Camera Corner/Gentry Studio has been in downtown Blacksburg for more than 35 years. Having occupied many locations along Draper Road through the years, John recently returned to 213 Draper Road, a space he originally occupied when he first stopped working for Ewald Clark and started his own business. With all the extra room John has been able to fully display a remarkable collection of cameras, from vintage Brownies to 35mm cameras to modern digital cameras. While it may feel like a museum of photography, all these fascinating cameras are for sale and can be serviced right here.

John’s most unique camera can’t be found in his store, however. It’s in the restaurant across the street. A 1960′s photo booth. Pay your money, have a seat, flash your smile and take home a strip of four pictures as a souvenir.

John was among the first to offer  color processing in town many years ago and continues to provide film processing and digital photo printing today. He also does passports on site, photo restoration, large format printing and archival printing of your photographs. And if that wasn’t enough to keep him busy, John will photograph your wedding, reunion, or other event offering  all types of photography from aerials to wedding photography.

John is a proud supporter of “living local” in downtown Blacksburg stating that ” Survival in downtown Blacksburg comes first.  We adapt to the changes, but still keep the old alive, for example we are just building a Black and White darkroom again. We have added Records to our store to add a little more variety.  I have even sold sleds in the winter so you may never know what to expect.”

Take a look at http://www.johnscam.com/ or better yet, stop by John’s Camera Corner/Gentry Studio at 213 Draper Road and take a look around.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Tags: , , ,

and always a free cookie with your eye exam!!

14 Dec drjstaff1

Post written by Lauryn Tamburello

Dr. Steve Jacobs, Optometrist

Free cookies to get your eyes checked out? Yes, please! As soon as I walk into Dr. Jacob’s office, I’m greeted by two smiling women, Fran and Darlene, offering me a cookie while I wait to meet with Dr. Jacobs.

These two women (Fran’s the one baking the delicious cookies all the time – special advance requests taken eg. sugarless, nut-free etc…) along with Mechelle, Amanda and Regina, are part of what makes this office so special.  I look around and feel a sense of community and warmth; the office is covered with seasonal decorations as well as a community message board adorned with local business cards.  There’s nothing like a good support system.

No time passes as Dr. Jacobs introduces himself and we walk to the exam room. There I see how the office extends around the corner and comes out into an entire room of eyeglasses, there’s certainly not a lack of options here.

Dr. Jacobs came to the field of optometry in a somewhat roundabout way.  After graduating from Cornell University he received a Master’s Degree in Child Development at Michigan State.   However, due to the early 1980s’ prevailing political and economic winds, he decided another career option might be appropriate.   Following the suggestion of his father, who knew their local OD, he looked into optometry as a career offering involvement with people as well as science, and he hasn’t looked back.   The desire for a more laid back lifestyle, especially with two very young daughters, than one possible in Brooklyn or its environs, fortuitously led to Blacksburg “the U.S.’ best place to raise kids”  in 1988 and work at the newly opened NRV Mall.  Once he and his wife, Cathy, decided after two weeks that this is where they wanted to stay forever, it took two years to gather the courage and finances to open his own office, finding a perfect spot on North Main Street.

One way Dr. Jacobs stands out in the community is the personal service he and his staff offer as well as homemade cookies and the feeling you get as if you’re a part of their extended family. The practice is highly involved in the charity, VICCC, which works to create high-quality, affordable, educational, and nurturing care for very young children (ages 0 -5) of income-eligible working families in the New River Valley AND NRV Cares, which “provides child advocacy, resources, education and services.” For the past four years the office has held a “Trunk Show” in November featuring representatives from three eyewear manufacturers, great sales and great food, as a means to raise funds and awareness for these two organizations.   Patrons are requested to donate a portion of their discount the VICCC and NRV Cares, and Dr. Jacobs matches that amount.   Also for their benefit, the practice is currently holding a “Best of Blacksburg” raffle featuring items from local businesses such as wine sets from Vintage Cellar, Gillie’s gift certificate, jewelry from Capone’s etc…

A piece of advice Dr. Jacobs likes to work and live by and which helps local communities alike, is to be local and stay local.   Yes, the Internet might be convenient, but you’d be surprised at the great deals you can receive at your local shop! Don’t forget to “Like” Dr. Jacob’s on Facebook and stop in to buy a raffle ticket- 1 for $5 or 3 for $10! Drawing is next Monday morning (12/19), so hurry!!

Also, don’t forget to frequently check Dr. Jacob’s website for upcoming news & events and to learn more about his unique and wonderful staff.  The website is a great resource for those with common health concerns such as “What is Lazy Eye?”, “All About Color Blindness” and much more!

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Fran is the frame stylist and cookie cooker extraordinaire in the building and she boast that “she’s not the one with the accent…. you are” For an extra special treat try out Fran’s Recipe of the Month and let us know in the comments below which is your favorite! Happy Holidays!

Dr. Steve Jacob’s Office Location
620 North Main Street
Suite #101
Blacksburg VA 24060
Phone: 540-953-0136
Emergency Contact: In case of emergency, please phone our office at the number listed above and follow the instructions.

Tags: , , , ,

DOWNTOWN BLACKSBURG’S OWN ‘CRAZY ONE’

26 Nov KentJewelers1

Post written by Karen Quina Doyle

“Here’s to the crazy ones….The ones who see things differently. They’re not fond of rules. And they have no respect for the status quo. You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them.

About the only thing you can’t do is ignore them. Because they change things. They invent. They imagine. They heal. They explore. They create. They inspire.”

A VISIONARY RETAILER IN DOWNTOWN BLACKSBURG
I’m sure I’m not the only one to come across this time-honored toast in recent weeks. What I wasn’t expecting was for it to come to mind as I was trying to figure out how to start writing this blog. And while I would be hard-pressed to go so far as to call her crazy, the rest of the Apple®-inspired tribute seems an apt way to describe Marla Kemsey, the creative powerhouse/owner behind Kent Jewelers.

Kemsey has elevated the whole experience of buying fine jewelry to an art form, redefining the way business is done in the process. “Our goal is to create a social atmosphere where you can buy jewelry in a way that enhances the aesthetics and economy of Downtown Blacksburg,” the attractive, fit visionary with characteristic composure and focus, provides. “I intentionally bucked the consultant’s advice to stick to a more traditional, formulaic layout in favor of a more personalized, boutique approach that’s not as serious about the way the merchandise is displayed. By design,” she is careful to distinguish, “I didn’t want the shop to look or feel like other jewelry stores.”

She succeeded. From the unconventional arrangement of the display cases to the hand-picked original art pieces gracing the shop walls, the resulting effect feels more gallery-like than category retail, sans the stultifying air that can sometimes make its way around such high-end transactions. By contrast, there’s an energizing vibe that emanates from the store and its ebullient manager Bailey Workman, a long-time employee and 2010 grad with a Management degree from Tech. It’s why you’ll find unlikely customers, like the camouflage-suspendered Roy C. Jones, gushing her praises for replacing a band on the watch she sold him on an earlier visit just as enthusiastically as a lady who is looking to purchase a diamond pendant.

Workman is as much a part of the draw as the singularly spectacular gems, each of which is individually chosen in careful collaboration between her and Kemsey as a process of this ring or this ring or this ring. “We decide on the front end what to sell and then merchandise it,” says Kemsey. “We may carry only one sapphire ring and one tourmaline ring and one ruby pendant that we specifically chose, each as a unique piece, as opposed to merchandising in multiples.”

Fifteen years after launching her first business venture, Chantilly Lace, which originated from a business plan she wrote as a Design major at Radford, the mother of three was ready for something new. “I love Blacksburg, and I wanted to continue to contribute to this economy rather than having to expand the other three or more hours away. My goal was to stay downtown, and I liked the idea of being right on Main Street. Blacksburg has an amazing amount of potential,” she endorses.

A Passion for Jewelry as Art
Not long after opening as Kent Square’s first anchor eight years ago, she acquired the shop’s first permanent art installment, a piece entitled The Grand Master Staircase by the Brazilian surrealist painter, Ferjo. “The painting was purchased at a gallery in Reno when I was supposed to be buying jewelry,” she confides. “It set the stage for the aesthetics of the store. Jewelry is beautiful. Art is stunning. I’m a huge fan of Picasso. The number of masterpieces portrayed in the contemporary context of this one collection is fascinating. I see something new every time I look at it.”

The contemporary but elegant feel of her most recent addition, a painting by Hugo Rivera that gives human form to a traditional subject, reflects the contemporary, eclectic feel she envisions for the store.

The day we met, she happened to be wearing something special, the very first piece of jewelry she got at market, a Cabachon lariat of garnet beads and freshwater pearls, even though she hadn’t worn it in three years.

Pretty in Pink
The daughter of a breast cancer survivor, Kemsey channeled her passion for the cause into Blacksburg’s annual Pretty in Pink fund/awareness-raising gala in conjunction with Breast Cancer Awareness Month each October. After hearing a radio report of another town’s success with a similar event, she knew Blacksburg could do the same based on its track record with, among others, Stepping Out; and she saw it as a way to give back to the community where women could come together around a social event. Now in its 4th year, the soiree has evolved into a good event that unifies downtown as more and more businesses like Gourmet Pantry, the Farmers’ Market, and Matrix Gallery, which was able to make a contribution to the Susan G. Komen Foundation with this year’s proceeds, have joined forces. Her hope is that it will continue to grow into the kind of event that is copied and used as a model for other small towns.

Holiday Get-Togethers
Kent Jewelers is set to host a number of other special events throughout the holidays. The first, Ladies’ Night, a social gathering organized around cocktail hour to give clients the chance to catch up with each other and the store’s latest offerings, is set for December 1. Kemsey and Workman have been known to give away thousand dollar diamond rings, in addition to the gift bags and wish lists everyone receives.

The guys will have their turn December 15 with Blackjack and poker chips that double as discounts on merchandise. It’s all part of their philosophy to bring people together in a fun social setting where they can feel comfortable and involved.

What’s on Your Holiday Wish List?
Have your eye on something special from Kent Jewelers? Write it down in the comment section below, and we’ll try to get word to Santa!

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Tags: , , ,

Winter Events- mark your calendars!

14 Nov winterlights

NRV Roller Girls present:Drag Queen Bingo
2nd annual fundraiser on Nov 16th, at Awful Arthur’s after the Comedy Club
$15 for 15 rounds of Bingo, performances by the Drag Queens and a goody bag!
NRV Roller Girls

Creekmore Law Firm Open House
Thursday, December 1 from 6:00 to 9:00. Food, music, and a toy drive for United Way. Wear Victorian apparel for an extra bit of vintage Christmas spirit!

Ladies Night at Kent Jewelers
December 1 – Join us for a night of fun! Make a Christmas wish list, enjoy Hors d’oeuvres, and have your jewelry cleaned. Free Gift Bags to all attendees!

SILENT NIGHT silent auction at XYZ Gallery
December 2, 2011 6:00-10:00pm
Tickets: $2 in advance, $3 at the door
Bid on students artwork and enjoy light refreshments and live music.

Downtown Blacksburg, Inc. & Town of Blacksburg present:
Winter Lights Festival with TubaChristmas and Holiday Parade
Friday, December 2, 2011. 4:00pm-7:00pm
4:00- 5:30pm Pictures with Santa at The Lyric (bring your own camera) Santa will leave at 5:30pm promptly to attend to other duties so don’t be late!
4:00-7:00pm Holiday Gift Market in Market Square Park
5:30pm Tree lighting by Mayor Ron Rordam and Santa, with music from the Blacksburg Children’s Master Chorale
6:00pm TubaChristmas co-sponsored by Downtown Blacksburg, Inc. and the Department of Music at Virginia Tech in Market Square Park.
7:00pm Holiday Parade co-sponsored by Blacksburg Parks& Recreation Department & Virginia Tech Chapter of Circle K
Deo Gloria will be wandering the streets singing Christmas carols.

ATTENTION ALL TUBA AND EUPHONIUM PLAYERS
All ages and ability levels!
TubaChristmas is coming back to Blacksburg to join the Winter Lights Festival. TubaChristmas will make this the best holiday celebration ever! Bring your tubas, euphoniums and all of your friends to downtown Blacksburg on Friday, December 2nd , 2011.
Participants, please RSVP to ecrone@vt.edu

Holiday Craft Fair, Friday Dec 2
130 Jackson
4:00p-8:00pm
Get into the holiday spirit by stopping by the Holiday Craft Fair at 130 Jackson for unique handmade gifts for all ages.

Tech Bookstore presents: “The Untold Civil War” Book Signing with James “Bud” Robertson, Jr.
Saturday, December 3, 2011 at 10:00am
“The Untold Civil War: Exploring the Human Side of War,” focuses on little known details in the lives of soldiers and leaders and offers a humanizing portrait of this time in history.
The book features 132 new stories and 475 rare illustrations, making it a perfect gift for history enthusiasts or those curious to study a new perspective on the Civil War.
Copies of the newest book will be on sale at the Tech Bookstore along with other titles by Dr. Robertson.

Downtown Blacksburg, Inc. presents a FREE movie- “Elf”
Downtown Blacksburg, Inc. and the Lyric Theatre present our holiday gift to the Blacksburg Community
December 3- 10:00am in the Lyric.
Please come and enjoy a free showing of the movie “Elf” on the big screen in your favorite theatre!
Santa and Buddy the Elf will be available for pictures following the movie in the lobby.
Don’t be a ” cotton-headed ninny-muggins”…….bring your family, bring your friends!

Late Night at the Lyric presents
December 2& 3- Sing-along-Grease. Doors open at 11:30pm, show starts at midnight. All tickets $5
Also showing at 3:00pm  on Saturday December 3. Tickets $5

Gillie’s Tea Party!
Come and have tea at Gillie’s featuring 5 types of delicious tea to taste, fancy hors d’oeuvres , prizes and a very civilized afternoon of fun!
Sunday December 4, 4:00-6:00pm
Tickets: $10

HaeBo Productions present:
“Ten Minutes ’til Christmas” and “A Laura Ingalls Wilder Christmas” at GLE on Sat, Dec 3 at 2 and 7 and Sun, Dec 4 at 2pm. Admission is free.

Ladies & Gents Shopping Night in Downtown Blacksburg
Ladies Night- Dec 8
Gents Night- Dec 15
Featuring 4-8pm, late night shopping, personalized shopping assistance, free gift wrap, snacks and beverages, and holiday specials in participating stores.

Gourmet Pantry presents Holiday Cooking Classes
November 23-  -HOLIDAY WINE TASTING / WINE PAIRING at 6:00pm.FREE
November 30- EDIBLE GIFTS FOR THE HOLIDAYS at 6:00pm $55 fee
December 7- International Holiday Cookies, the gourmet way. 6:00pm. $55 fee
December 10- “Taste of Virginia” great holiday gifts.- FREE
December 15- Gents Night Out at 6:00pm. FREE

New River Stage presents: The Society of Sidekicks
Saturday, December 10 · 11:00am – 12:00pm at The Lyric Theatre
Humanity is in deep trouble, menaced by the mighty power of the evil Bookworm! With earth perched on the brink of destruction, it’s time to call upon the heroes of the world to fight back. Unfortunately, almost all of them have been taken hostage by Bookworm. The last hope is the sidekicks, who are not quite sure they’re up to the job.

This delightful and entertaining original play is presented by New River Stage, showcasing the talents of its Dramatic Mondays class, a 12-week workshop for kids. The show will be presented on December 10, 2011 at 11 AM at The Lyric.
The show is free, and donations are very much appreciated.

HONK! is the musical journey of the ugly duckling, combining witty humor with a familiar story to create an entertaining experience for all ages. The sizable cast will include all ages from 6 through adults. The performance will be the first two weekends in March and the auditions are December 2-4. See http://www.newriverstage.com for details.

Steve Jacobs O.D. Local Charity Fundraiser
Thank you to all of the Blacksburg merchants who’ve contributed items for our Best of Blacksburg Raffle. We have over 30 items on display with a total retail value of approximately $800. The Raffle will continue until the week before Christmas when we’ll pick our lucky winners. Winner #1 gets his/her choice of 10 items, #2 the next 10, etc… All funds rasied will go to NRV Cares and VICCC.

Hahn Horticulture Garden
Wednesday Garden Walks & Talks – Free!
Learn at lunchtime! All run 12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m. – meet at the Peggy Lee Hahn Garden Pavilion. No registration required. Parking passes available at Pavilion for Visitors only. F/S must park in designated F/S spaces.
These fun and informative walks and talks all start at the Peggy Lee Hahn Garden Pavilion. Did we mention they are FREE?
November 16 12:00-1:00 p.m. Art in the Gardens of New Zealand with Dr. Diane Relf
In a country as beautiful as New Zealand, art is integral to every aspect of life, from driftwood art galleries on the beaches to one of the finest botanic gardens in the world. Backyard hobby gardens and spectacular private estates are opened to the public to share the art of gardening and the art in the garden. Art shows are held in gardens to bring together nature and art.
Dr. Diane Relf, who winters with her husband Dave Angle at their home in Southland, New Zealand will share with you the country, the people, the gardens and the art. In conjunction with the presentation, there will be a show of New Zealand artists in the Hahn Pavilion from Nov 16 to Nov 30.
Call Stephanie at 540-231-5970 to register by phone or email vtgarden@vt.edu.

Blacksburg Newcomers Club
General Meetings start at 9:00am on the 2nd Tuesday of the month, September – May, at Luther Memorial Lutheran Church (600 Prices Fork Rd.)
Our organization is open to all residents of the New River Valley, whether you are new to the area or not. Making new friends and becoming part of the community is what we are all about. Please be our guest at our monthly meeting to learn more about this great organization.

Blacksburg Contra Dance Group
Blacksburg Contradances
Dances are on the third Saturday night of the month from 8pm to 11pm with a lesson at 7:30pm and in the YMCA Dance Room unless otherwise noted. Admission $8 (after 10pm, free) Children 10 and under get in for half price.
BlacksburgContraDance Here

Johns Camera Corner /Gentry Studio has expanded its Horizon.
.. We now sell vinyl records…..Camera repair…. 49cc motor scooters….., and a rental darkroom almost ready. Come and see us at our new location 213 Draper rd. Downtown. WWW.johnscam.com

Southwest Virginia Social Dance Society (SVSDS)
Every Friday – free dance lesson from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Dancing follows at 8:30 p.m. First dance session free, and then $3.00 for members and $5.00 for non-members. Held at the YMCA Event Room.
SVSDS HERE

SEEDS Nature Center Activities
SEEDS Come Visit!
November and December at the SEEDS – Blacksburg Nature Center:
Camouflage and how living things adapt to the change of seasons.
Tues 10:00am-1:00pm
Thurs 2:00pm-5:00pm
Fri 9:30am-11:30am
Sat 9:00am-1:00pm
Come explore, learn, and have fun!
Rain or shine…Nature discovery right downtown.
It’s a museum and more for children and the young at heart!

Blacksburg Farmers Market
Blacksburg Farmers Market hours for Nov and Dec are
Wednesdays from 2:00pm – 6:00pm
Saturdays from 9:00 am – 2:00pm

Next Door Bake Shop Happy Hour
“5pm to 6.30pm” $1 coffee in a mug. Monday to Friday!!!

Tags: , , , , ,

Uggs!

9 Nov

Post written by Lauryn Tamburello

310 Rosemont is one of my favorite reasons to walk around downtown Blacksburg. Everytime I see the boutique I have to walk in, even if I was in there the day before! Something about the hard wood floor and vintage décor give you a warm feeling as you enter. My personal go-tos at 310 are the classic Longchamp bags, which last a lifetime and can even be washed down with soap and water (just be careful of the leather straps and accents!), as well as Jack Rogers Sandals. Between purchasing them for my mother and myself, I believe we’ve acquired at least 4 pair from 310 Rosemont. They always have an amazing selection and are willing to help in anyway.

You are greeted in the beginning of your shopping experience with, “Hi! How are you, can I get you water or coffee?” It is always nice how the staff want you to feel comfortable and take your time looking around.  Another thing I always look forward to is the candy jar! They keep it filled with an assortment at the cash register for your enjoyment.

One of the unique aspects of this boutique is how it equally caters to women as well as men. Past the women’s purses and shoes you are led to an endless array of bow ties, ties, polos, button downs, pants and jeans for men.  There’s also a place for the men (as well as boyfriends) to hang out and watch the sports game or play a round of pool.

Julie, a Virginia Tech Graduate in Fashion Design and Merchandising has recently taken on the new role of managing Blacksburg and Roanoke’s 310 Rosemont Boutiques.

One of the reasons Julie has taken on this challenge is that she loves the fact that 31o Rosemont offers  unique items including Jewelry (their top seller for women) and high-end brands such as Free People, BP Dakota, Uggs and plenty more.

310’s new seasonal items are Uggs (of which there is quite a variety including boots and slippers in an assortment of colors), fur vests, chunky sweaters and fall jackets.

A big seller to make 310 stand out from competitors as well as online shopping is the 10% discount they offer to VT students. When students go home and they see a pair of Uggs, Jack Rogers, a Longchamp bag, etc they know they can come back to this adorable boutique on Main Street, in downtown Blacksburg and get it for less.

310 Rosemont is also heavily involved in giving back to the community through Virginia Tech sororities. The Greek Life knows when they are trying to lend a hand to charities they can host a fundraiser at 310 Rosemont, whom will happily give a percentage of sales during a proposed time frame.

The store hours are Monday-Saturday 11-6 and Sundays 12-4 and are open all year round. Also, don’t forget to head over on Black Friday, November 26, to find huge savings!

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

You can follow 310 on Twitter, Like them on Facebook and check out their website (which is currently under construction).

Tags: , , ,

Let’s Get Physical!

6 Nov

Post Written by Lauryn Tamburello and Laureen Blakemore

UPDATE: 1/12/12- We are sad to announce that New Tech Fitness closed its doors in December 2011

Walking through the front doors of New Tech Fitness, (which is conveniently located across from Next Door Bake Shop and boasts ample parking onsite) I am immediately struck by a friendly, clean, welcoming, healthy environment. The gym smells and looks clean and bright- a side effect of the massive wall of windows surrounding the entire space. Great to work out in natural light and if you don’t care to watch the televisions it is refreshing to enjoy the beautiful view of the not too distant Blue Ridge Mountains while feeling the burn!

I am delighted to meet Jennifer Miller, “the Fitness Instructor Machine”. Jennifer is the Group Fitness Supervisor of New Tech Fitness, and brings quite a bit of credibility to not only Blacksburg, but across the U.S. Jennifer moved from Knoxville, TN where “I worked for Bally initially and was in the right place at the right time to become a supervisor and now am teaching other teachers across the country.”

Jennifer has been certified for 15 years with the American Aerobics Association International/International Sports Medicine Association (AAAIISMA), which is based out of Pennsylvania. With this certification she is sent throughout the states when needed to teach new classes and workshops. She is also the co-owner of Plain Jane Fitness, which teaches current fitness instructors unique, more specialized techniques such as different workouts you can do with the “bosu ball.”

With this intensive resume, it’s no surprise one of the main attractions to New Tech Fitness are the group fitness classes, and note some days there are up to 15 different class options! Astounding to pick up the schedule and be spoiled for choice- Should I opt for the Healthy Backs Class, which is the only one in town taught by a certified Personal Trainer, New Tech Fitness Manager, Jocy Surface? Or should I try Zumba, Body Pump, Body Flow or that crazy fun indoor cycling workout for cardiovascular conditioning, fat burning, and sculpted legs? I think I need to “sculpt my legs” but the fat burning, hip churning latin-inspired dance moves of Zumba sort of captures my interest…..   Other attractions include a low crowds, no wait for equipment, space in classes (because the classroom is huge!), and the variety of equipment meets all fitness levels. Apparently I could even try out the Aquatic Program which is great for arthritis and joint training and takes place at the heated indoor pool at Hawthorne Suites.

Such variety of equipment, however, can be intimidating, but not for long as most of the employees of New Tech are fitness professionals and trainers with advanced degrees in Physiology and Kinesiology.  Having this experience leads New Tech to being on the cutting edge of fitness but always suggesting safe exercise options.

Last year you might’ve seen the New Tech’s float in the Christmas parade, I don’t think you could miss two spin instructors on bikes advertising the ever-popular spin class. You will also find them at Summer Solstice Fest, teaching Zumba to the crowds, Gobblerfest and involved in VCOM events. New Tech even sponsored a “Biggest Loser” type event in 2010 working with many community partners to make fitness fun for everyone.

As for parents on the fence about going to the gym because they can’t leave their children, New Tech offers Childwatch, which is available to members for a small fee. College students staff this service and use the time constructively by playing and doing activities instead of propping your child in front of the TV. Childwatch hours vary daily which can be found here on their website.  New Tech Fitness even offers Toddler Time several times a week. Toddler Time offers fun and games for the NTF Childwatch kids in the small fitness studio and is a big hit with the tiny participants!

New Tech Fitness is about more than the obligatory “workout to look good”, New Tech Fitness strives to take your health and fitness goals personally. They give the support and encouragement that is needed to help you achieve the results you desire and deserve. They offer the whole body fitness and wellness approach including the newly opened “Blacksburg Nutrition Store” onsite which is the ONLY nutrition store in Blacksburg. The store is owned and operated by Brian Jardine, a Tech graduate. At New Tech Fitness you get the whole package-personal training, nutrition and fitness advice, a family friendly environment for ALL ages and the best massage therapist in town! Licensed Massage Therapist Dorrie Ditton’s massage therapy studio is an oasis of calm in the center of a busy fitness center that offers convenience without sacrificing privacy.

During our interview on Tuesday, Jennifer invited me to attend her H.E.A.T group fitness class that evening. H.E.A.T. is a High Energy Athletic Training class which is “intense cardiovascular exercise using plyometrics, calisthenics, and kickboxing with intervals of muscle-building strength. Fast paced and challenging”. Each week the classes are different, so you never get used to the workout or know what’s coming. In this particular class it was set up circuit-style; we did a couple minutes of group cardio then partnered up for a weight training or plyometric station and repeated the process 9 times- it kicked my butt! Two days later I’m still feeling it in my calves and abs and that’s when you know you’ve gotten a great workout :)

New Tech Fitness Announcements:

Every month, New Tech offers one free class and in November it will be Power Yoga on Tuesday the 15th from 6:45-8pm.

Saturday, November 19th there will be a 2 hour stationary bike class called Tour de Tech and it will be led by a team of instructors!

Community Discounts

VT Student Discount Memberships (including semester long memberships), Corporate Discounts (which includes VT Faculty) and Blacksburg High School athletes are offered a discounted rate of $15/month accompanied by a coach’s note.

Classes and hours are announced on their Facebook page and website. You can follow New Tech on Twitter.

New Tech Fitness also offers a FREE Member Advantage Card rewarding members with special incentives and discounts at a variety of participating businesses including Awful Arthur’s, Tuck Chiropractic and Next Door Bake Shop.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Tags: , , , , ,

Hello Laser, Goodbye Hair

4 Nov

Got too much body hair?  Don’t pay for another painful wax when you can get permanent results at The Laser Clinic of Blacksburg.  Located at712 North Main Streetjust off the new roundabout, Mary Babcock opened The Laser Clinic about 7 years ago.

Excess hair on the face, arms, back, chest, legs and even the bikini area can be permanently removed over a series of treatments.  The length of treatment is different for each person and body area, but can range from as few as 4 months to as long as a year.  Some clients opt to remove excess hair on their entire body.  (Payment plans are available in those cases.)

And it’s not just for women!  The most popular target areas for men are the back and neck.  Mary has also treated men who have heavy facial hair to help thin out beards or remedy ingrown hairs.

Is it painful?  Well it’s certainly not as bad as a wax.  (Brazilian bikini wax anyone? Yikes!)  The laser machine blows cold air on the skin before, during, and after treatment to counteract the heat from the laser.  The sensation is similar to the snap of a rubber band on the skin.

Hair removal via laser is faster than with electrolysis and is effective with all skin types, though darker hair is easier to treat than lighter hair.  Mary can also remove spider veins and red moles.

Laser treatments are available by appointment only and Mary offers very flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate customer’s schedules.  When you come in, the Clinic’s official greeter is Xena, Mary’s blue-eyed dog.  (Mary has extra treats in case you forget to bring one.)

The Laser Clinic also sells vintage Steppin’ Out t-shirts.  Just $5 each or 2 for $8.

Contact Mary at 552.1111 or at info@laserclinicofblacksburg.com to start battling your excess hair today!  Mention this post and you’ll get 10% off your first treatment.

Post written by Peg Warren.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Tags: , , ,

Look Up the Best Tailgate Party in Downtown Blacksburg

3 Nov Kent_sq9

Post written by Karen Quina Doyle

Look Up the Best Tailgate Party in Downtown Blacksburg

No, really!  Look. Up.  The best tailgate party in Downtown Blacksburg is on the Kent Square Parking Garage Roof!  Game day spots are GUARANTEED with advance reservation, and according to Site Supervisor Stephanie Pascoe, space is still available for the Carolina game on the 17th.  ”We’re as close to the stadium as most of the ones on campus,” lends Pascoe, “but twice as much fun.”

Specific spots can be reserved with Season Parking Passes at the start of the season for the discounted rate of $26/game versus a non-package rate of $35/game.  Non-reserved spaces in the garage’s four lower levels are just $25/game, but tailgating is limited to the rooftop for the open air nature of grilling, etc. You can also purchase lower level spaces in advance for $20 per game versus $25 on Gameday.

Tailgating is to fall as Up on the Roof! is to summer. 

On the last Thursday of every month from March through September, creative professionals, locals, and grad students gather on the Kent Square Rooftop to enjoy each other’s company as well as food, beer, and vodka mixers for a measly five bucks that goes directly into the non-profit coffers of Downtown Events, Inc.  Joining “Up on the Roof! Blacksburg’s Premier Creative Professionals Mixer” Facebook Group now will practically ensure that you’ll be in the loop to be on the roof with the rest of Downtown Blacksburg next summer.

More than just fun and games.

But the Kent Square Parking Garage is more than just fun and games.  It’s open 24/7 for more serious pursuits like finding the closest spot in the shortest amount of time (so you’ll have more to spend on what really matters, like shopping and eating) or making that meeting without worrying about having enough change to feed the meter or being greeted with the dreaded “TIME EXPIRED” ticket when you return.

Life’s simply too short to waste it wondering and worrying, so here are the

 Top 10 Reasons to Park Your Car in the

Kent Square Parking Garage!

 #10

You’ll enjoy the serenity and satisfaction of 24/7 closed-circuit protection for your vehicle

 #9 

No bird poop on your windshield!

 #8

The first 14 minutes are FREE!

 #7

The repo man won’t find it!

 #6

You’ll NEVER spend more than $4/day on parking in Downtown Blacksburg!

15-45min: $1

45min-1.5hr: $2

1.5-2.25hr: $3

2.25-24hr: $4  $5 on weekends

$5 daily maximum rate on weekends, regular weekday rates still apply before 2.25 hours

 

#5

“It beats parking on campus!”

(according to Kent Square Parking Garage Site Supervisor, Stephanie Pascoe)

 

#4

American Red Cross, Avid LCC, Cabo Fish Taco, Center for the Arts, IMG Sports, Kent Jewelers, Modea, Real Life Dental Care, Senior Fellows for Resource Development, Sew Attitude, and SunTrust Bank will all validate your parking (Translation: FREE PARKING when you visit these businesses! Where other than Monopoly can you get that?)  Most businesses will validate parking for the time they spend at the business, not necessarily to cover an all day rate.

#3 

Kent Square Parking Garage Site Supervisor, Stephanie Pascoe rocks!!!

Stephanie is personally responsible for implementing Charlotte-based Park Inc.’s first-ever parking garage operation right here in Downtown Blacksburg!  Now, the company, specializes in valet services for hotels, restaurants, and VA hospitals along the east coast, Park Inc has taken her experience at Kent Square and  applied it to another parking garage in Washington, D.C.!  Way to go, Stephanie!!!

 

#2 

You’ll never have to feed another meter again!

Kent Square Parking Garage even accepts credit cards(VISA, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover as well as cash and coins) AND gives receipts for reimbursements for taxes, businesses, etc. (ever get one of those from a parking meter??) 

And the #1 Reason to Park Your Car

in  Kent Square Parking Garage…

 #1

You will never have to face the shame and humiliation of trying to parallel park in public ever again!

 

Let us hear from you!  

What do you think is the best reason to park in Kent Square Parking Garage?  Write your entry in the comment section below by 5pm Monday, November 7, and we’ll treat the person with the best response (as determined by Downtown Blacksburg) to Full day rate ($4) for parking at Kent Square Garage.  Validation tickets to cover parking for the day can be picked up at the Kent Square Garage office on the day you will be using the garage.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

The Kent Square Parking Garage is located at the corner of Draper Road and Roanoke Street; 383 parking spaces on 4 covered levels plus an open air deck with the best views of Downtown Blacksburg on top!  For more information, contact Site Supervisor,

Stephanie Pascoe at 540/443-3542 or at KentSquare@parkinc.com.

Tags: , , , , ,

← Older Entries
Newer Entries →

Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.

Join 10,166 other followers