Christiansburg Aquatic Center closed for maintenance
The Christiansburg Aquatic Center will be closed Aug. 14-25 for yearly maintenance. This closure allows staff to perform necessary maintenance that cannot be completed while open to the public. For more information call (540) 381-7665.
Christiansburg portion of Huckleberry Trail closed for repairs until further notice
Repair work will close a portion of the Huckleberry Trail in Christiansburg until further notice. A contractor will be making final repairs to the newest portion, which runs from Providence Boulevard to the Food Lion Shopping Center. For more information call 382-6128.
Registration open for Citizens Police Academy
The Christiansburg Police Department is accepting applications for this year’s Citizens Police Academy, a free 12-week class providing residents with an overview of the department and its operations.
The academy is scheduled to begin mid-September and will meet each Thursday from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the Christiansburg Police Department, 10 East Main Street in Christiansburg.
During the academy, participants have a chance to ride along with Christiansburg police officers, visit the firing range and fire the weapons they carry, and tour the Cardinal Police Academy where they train. In addition to hands-on training and experiences, participants will take part in classroom instruction, learning how radar works, how DUI stops are made, techniques for defensive tactics and more.
To sign up for the Citizens Police Academy or for more information, please contact Stephanie Turner at 382-3131, ext. 310.
Diamond Hills Park closed until further notice
Diamond Hills Park in Christiansburg will be closed until further notice because of a sanitary sewer overflow, which occurred on Independence Boulevard. The overflow has been stopped and the cause is being investigated. Please do not enter or drink from any streams in the area.
Signs alerting residents of the closure are posted along Independence Boulevard, Diamond Avenue and across the creek toward George Edwards Viaduct NW. The trail will be completely closed to through traffic during this time. For more information call 382-6128.
The Cellar open blues nights
Open blues mic with The Blue Monday Band 9-12:30 a.m. No cover. Show up early if you want to play, the sign-up sheet fills up fast. Every Monday. 302 N Main St, Blacksburg. For more information call 953-0651.
Moss Arts Center artists of Appalachia
The Moss Arts Center’s current art exhibition highlights the outstanding artistry and skill of artists in Appalachia. Featuring the work of 17 regional artists using a variety of techniques, “From These Woods” draws attention to the potential of the arts for creating an ecologically and economically sustainable future in the region. The exhibition showcases a variety of different art forms and features pieces made by woodturning and carving, as well as woven baskets, sculpture, and furniture. 190 Alumni Mall, Blacksburg. For more information call 231-5300.
Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group
Build a support system with people who understand. Alzheimer’s Association caregiver support groups, conducted by trained facilitators, are a safe place for caregivers, family and friends of persons with dementia to develop a support system, exchange practical information on caregiving challenges and possible solutions. Talk through issues and ways of coping. Share feelings, needs and concerns. Learn about community resources. The group meets the first and third Friday of the month at 3 p.m. at the Warm Hearth Village Center Woodland Studio, located at 2387 Warm Hearth Drive in Blacksburg. For more information contact Heather Gearhart at 443-3488.
Micah’s Backpack
During the summer months, Micah’s Backpack is seeking volunteers to help pack bags, load cars, restock shelves, and break down packaging on Wednesday nights at 6 p.m. Set-up begins at 5:30 p.m.
When school resumes, they go back to packing on Thursday nights at 6 pm. Volunteers meet at Saint Michael Lutheran Church, 2308 Merrimac Road, Blacksburg.
Call Micah’s Backpack at 951-8951 for more details.
Volunteers needed for Farmacy Garden
A community garden is located right next to the Health and Human Services Building (right next to RSVP) at 210 Pepper Street in Christiansburg. Volunteers are needed to help the Montgomery County Health Department with the garden this season. The hours are Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. They grow a wide array of vegetable crops, as well as fruit crops (and just installed some berry bushes and brambles.) All volunteers get to take home some produce, so this opportunity would be especially good for anyone that might need a little extra help affording fresh fruits and veggies. They have six raised beds in the garden that are senior accessible (four that you can work in from a seated position and two that you can work in standing). Call RSVP for more details at 382-5775.
First Missionary flea market Aug. 19
First Missionary Baptist Church in New River will sponsor it’s 11th Annual Flea Market/Craft Show on Sat. Aug.19.
8 a.m.-3 p.m. at New River Playground on 7168 Harry L. Brown Rd. Vendors are welcome and spaces are available for $15.
For more information, Call 540-639-1081or 540-641-1350.
Christiansburg Recreation Center closed, Aug. 19
The Courts, Locker Rooms and Track will be closed on for an AAU Basketball Tournament at the Christiansburg Recreation Center. The Cardio Room, Weight Room and Racquetball Courts will remain open. For more information call 382-6128.
Quartet performance Aug. 19
The Primitive Quartet and Kevin Kemp will be at Grayson County High School Auditorium in Independence, VA. Admission is $10. Doors will open at 4 p.m. For more info contact 276-233-6425 or 276-768-7020. Sponsored by Independence Volunteer Fire Department.
Solar eclipse viewing Aug. 21
The optometrists of Invision, located in Christiansburg, are hosting a Solar Eclipse viewing party on August 21st. This event will provide a fun and safe way for the community to enjoy the natural phenomenon of the coast-to-coast solar eclipse. There will be safety information, solar eclipse viewing glasses, and astronomy themed snacks. Dr. Scott Mann welcomes the opportunity to discuss the serious eye safety implications of viewing a solar eclipse. For more information about the event, eye safety issues, and science of the coast-to-coast solar eclipse please visit: http://www.invision2020.com/solar-eclipse-2017/.
Humane Society food drive, Aug. 26
The Humane Society of Montgomery County is holding a supply drive at the Christiansburg Kroger on August 26 from 11-4 p.m. Donations of dry cat and dog food, clay litter, treats, bleach, toys, paper towels, and other cleaning supplies are needed. Your participation will help keep our animals healthy and well fed while awaiting their forever homes. For more information call 382-1166.
Blacksburg Regional Art Association, Gelli Plates Aug. 26
Registration now open for members-only play date on printing with Gelli plates on Aug. 26 from 9-4 p.m. at Warm Hearth Village located at 2387 Warm Hearth Drive in Blacksburg. Visit blacksburgart.org for full information.
ReNew the New, Aug. 26
ReNew the New will take place on Aug. 26 from 8-12 p.m. at 375 Berkley Williams Drive in Radford. Each fall, volunteers take to the New River in canoes, rafts and kayaks to clean the debris from the river bottom, banks, and surrounding areas. Join these efforts to help keep the New River clean and healthy by going to the registration page and signing up for the Radford clean-up at renewthenew.org. For more information call 639-9313.
Heritage Day Aug. 26
The Montgomery Museum is seeking volunteers for Heritage Day on
Saturday, Aug. 26. The event will feature food, live entertainment, craft
activities, a pie cook-off and much more. Volunteers are needed to donate
baked goods, help with set-up from 8-10 a.m., help with the silent auction,
serve hot dogs and other food items at the food tent during the event, and
cleanup from 3-4 p.m. 300 Pepper St S, Christiansburg, VA 24073
Dialogue on race Aug. 26
Come out to the Dialogue on Race Summer Summit with Sides. Bring a friend. Bring a side dish. Fried chicken will be provided. Catch-up with friends and colleagues on our work: to combat racism in our community. The event will be at 5 p.m. at the Summer Picnic Summit, at Nellie’s Cave Park, 1900 Grissom Lane in Blacksburg. For more information visit dialogueonrace.info.
NAACP meeting, Aug. 27
The August General Body meeting of the Montgomery County-Radford City-Floyd County NAACP will be held on Sunday, Aug. 27, at First Baptist Church, 555 West Rock Road in Radford. The CREDO speaker will be Donna Fern of Radford Fairlawn Daily Bread. The meeting will begin at 3:30 and end at 5 p.m. For more information call 382-6751.
Autism Symposium Sep.15
The 3rd annual Autism Research Symposium will be held on Friday, Spt. 15 from 7:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Virginia Tech, The Virginia Tech Center for Autism Research, and The Washington Group Special Care Planning Team, presents the event. RSVP will be required due to space limitations. The symposium will be at the Fairview Park Marriott located at 3111 Fairview Park Dr, Falls Church. For more information please contact: (703) 865-6502 or calford@financialguide.com
Music on the New Aug. 18
Come out to see the Jimmy Buffest Tribute Band and the Party Parrot Band with DJ Josh Boggs on Friday, Aug. 18 at the Central Lumber Parking Lot at 1125 West Main Street in Radford. Bring a chair or dance the night away. Food & beverages available. Gates open at 5:30. Admission: Adults $5, Children 12 & under free. Tickets at the gate or on ticketfly.com. For more information please contact 639-2202.
Raise The Roof BBQ & Craft Fair Aug. 19
Slusser’s Chapel, located at 1543 Mt. Tabor Road in Blacksburg will hold its Raise The Roof BBQ and Craft Fair on Saturday, Aug. 19 from 4-7 p.m. Menu includes all-you-can-eat pulled pork BBQ, burgers, hot dogs, and chicken. Sides are homemade slaw, potato and macaroni salads, baked beans, desserts and drinks. Take out available. Adults $10 Children 5-12 $5 under 5 free. Craft fair includes 18 vendors from around the area. Profits will go toward roof repairs. For more information call 552-8737.
Blacksburg Museum & Cultural Center Masquerade Gala Aug. 26
Dine & dance in the elegant atmosphere of the beautifully restored Alexander Black House & Cultural Center. The evening will include a champagne reception, hors d’oeuvres, dinner, live music, dancing, a silent auction, and of course great company. Tickets are $95 per person and can be purchased online or by calling 540-558-0746. Proceeds will benefit the continuing restoration of the Alexander Black House at 204 Draper Rd SW, Blacksburg.
ShelterFest Aug. 26
ShelterFest 2017 is coming back to Sinkland Farms in Riner on Saturday, Aug. 26. This year’s event features local headliners Badunkafunk and Black Wax Rebellion, with special guests West End and Cole Massey. Gates will open at 5:30 pm, with music beginning at 6 p.m.
Till & Grill is returning as a food vendor, and Hethwood Market will be at the event, who will also be providing food. Adult beverages will also be available for purchase.
All proceeds will benefit To Our House and United Way of Montgomery, Radford & Floyd and our efforts to shelter homeless individuals in our community.
Democrats dinner, Aug. 26
Join the Montgomery County Democratic Committee on Aug. 26 at the German Club on 711 Southgate Drive in Blacksburg for our Annual Dinner. Reception is at 5:30 p.m., buffet-style dinner at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $60. For more information please visit, mcdemocrats.org/events/annual-dinner/.
Hunter Safety Course Aug. 27
Virginia has implemented a new, shorter hunter education course. Instead of 10 hours or more, the new course will be 6-8 hours. Students will be required to complete several hours of self-study prior to the class. Some material on the final test will be covered in the self-study material, but not during actual class time. Students must complete the self-study to prepare themselves for the final test. Study manuals will be available for pick-up at the Recreation Dept. Participants must be pre-registered, NO walk-in registrations at the class. Register online at: http://www.dgif.virginia.gov/hunting/education/new/
Child fingerprinting Aug. 28
Come by the Recreation Department and have your child fingerprinted for your files in case of an emergency, 615 Patrick Henry Dr, Blacksburg. For more information call 961-1135.
Step-by-step
home buyers class Aug. 29
Join Rachel at the Christiansburg Recreation Center, located at 1600 North Franklin Street, as she gives you helpful tips to be aware of when purchasing a home. Those interested must pre-register. For more information please call 382-2349.
Safe Kids NRV Coalition-Car Seat Safety Checks Aug. 31
Come by the Fire Department at 110 Depot Street NW in Christiansburg from 4-6 p.m. to make sure you have your car seat installed properly. For more information please call 382-4388.
North Main Street at Route 460 Intersection improvements design public hearing Aug. 31
Find out about a project to improve safety at the intersection where North Main Street connects with Route 460 and Farmingdale Lane in Blacksburg at the public hearing on Thursday, Aug. 31 from 5-7 p.m. at the Blacksburg Community center located at 725 Patrick Henry Drive. The project will modify the intersection to add and lengthen turn lanes and restrict left turns from North Main Street and Farmingdale Lane onto Route 460. The project also includes improvements to facilitate U-turns on Route 460. Closing the connection of Bishop Road to Route 460 also is being considered.
The hearing will be held in an open house format and VDOT representatives will be present to answer questions.
Review the project information and the National Environmental Policy Act document in the form of a Categorical Exclusion at the public hearing or after the hearing at VDOT’s Salem District Office located at 731 Harrison Ave., Salem, 540-387-5353, 800-367-7623, TTY/TDD 711. Please call ahead to ensure the availability of appropriate personnel to answer your questions. Inclement Weather Date: Tuesday, Sept. 5, 5-7 p.m.
Property impact information, relocation assistance policies and tentative construction schedules are available for your review at the above address and will be available at the public hearing.
Learn to Square Dance Sept. 11
Come enjoy an Open House and free Western square dance lesson offered by the New River Squares on Friday, Sept. 11, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Memorial Baptist Church, 995 Peppers Ferry Rd. Pulaski. You can also sign up for a series of classes that officially begin on Sept.18 and continue for 14 Monday evenings at 6:30 p.m. at the Church. There is a small fee for the classes. Come for the Square Dance Open House on Sept. 11 and try this great fun exercise for free. If you have questions or wish more information contact Martin and Mary Jane McMillion at 382-3640 or martinandmaryjane@gmail.com or Susan and Phil Daniels at 268-0489 or spdan7@gmail.com.
Junior Master Gardner Program
Hahn Horticulture Garden and Montgomery County 4-H invites you to join our Junior Master Gardener (JMG) program. The JMG program is a fun youth gardening program modeled after the highly successful adult Master Gardener program. It offers horticultural and environmental science education through creative gardening activities. The program includes 26 classes over fall and spring. Classes will be led by trained Master Gardener volunteers with support from Hahn Horticulture Garden and Extension staff (generally three or more adults for each class). Hahn Horticulture Garden will provide garden space for some of the gardening projects. Participants in this program will have the opportunity to become certified Junior Master Gardeners through hands-on learning, community service, and leadership projects. Youth will be encouraged to work towards JMG certification, though this is not required. Details about certification will be explained at the first meeting. To register, complete a 4-H health history form. You can download the form at: http://www.pubs.ext.vt.edu/388/388-906/388-906-PDF.pdf
Return the form with your payment to Stephanie Huckestein, Hahn Horticulture Garden located at 200 Garden Lane in Blacksburg. For more information please call 231-5970.
