Ralph Berrier Jr.

5 days ago | virginiabusiness.com | Ralph Berrier Jr. |Kira Jenkins

SUMMARY:Franchising provides proven business model, launch support for first-time business ownersInternational Franchise Association ranked Virginia as third-best state for franchise growth this yearVirginia’s business-friendly climate supports franchises in several industries, although the food industry accounts for the bulk of franchises nationwide. Economic uncertainty has raised concerns among franchise owners.

5 days ago | virginiabusiness.com | Ralph Berrier Jr. |Kira Jenkins

The road repairs on U.S. 58 can’t be completed soon enough for Teresa Dell, whose gas station and country store have seen a big drop in business since Hurricane Helene destroyed 1 1/2 miles of the curvy mountain highway in Washington County last September.

5 days ago | virginiabusiness.com | Ralph Berrier Jr. |Kira Jenkins

A $4.9 million grant from the commonwealth will allow leaders from the Roanoke and New River valleys to build upon efforts by Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine and the Fralin Biomedical Institute at VTC to turn the region into a hub for biomedical research. “As we build the biotech sector, this statewide grant will help us where we have gaps,” explains Erin Burcham, CEO of the Roanoke Blacksburg Innovation Alliance (RBIA), a regional economic development organization.

2 weeks ago | roanokerambler.com | Ralph Berrier Jr.

Woodrow Walker remembered when the lights came up and the dancing girls hit the stage at the old Ebony Club. Walker was a keyboard player and singer with the Chevies and Premiers, one of Roanoke’s most beloved rhythm and blues bands of the 1960s and a regular at Henry Street nightclubs in the mostly Black neighborhood of Gainsboro.

2 months ago | roanokerambler.com | Ralph Berrier Jr.

Shannon Knight carefully moved her hands around the bobbing needle of a sewing machine, working hard to keep her stitches in a straight line. “My mom makes this look so easy,” she said with a tinge of frustration. Michelle Donohoe watched over Knight’s shoulder, offering advice with the words of a dance instructor. “Slow down … now backward … now forward …”“I’m going to mess it up,” Knight said. “That’s what this is for,” said Donohoe.