Roanoke in Virginia's Blue Ridge had the privilege once again of hosting The Virginia Board of Bar Examiners this week at the Berglund Center. This year 1,068 aspiring law students from all over the state took the state bar exam. The exam has been held in Roanoke more than 100 years. Historically, the group books 3,000 room nights in Virginia's Blue Ridge with an economic impact of $925,000 utilizing multiple hotels and restaurants throughout the region. 

Starting next week, the Amateur Softball Association (ASA)/USA Girls 12U Class A Fast-Pitch National Championship will be welcoming players and families to Virginia's Blue Ridge using facilities in the City of Salem and Botetourt County, but teams will be practicing in the City of Roanoke and Roanoke County. Currently 57 teams have registered from 19 states with 2,500+ players, coaches, parents and fans. John Shaner, Director of the Salem Parks & Recreation stated, "This is going to be a great week to showcase Virginia's Blue Ridge to these teams over the course of an entire week leaving a positive economic impact on our region."