Onward NRV Hosts Summer Investor Event at Calfee Park

Onward New River Valley hosted the organization’s Summer 2021 Investor Event at historic Calfee Park on Thursday, June 10, 2021. Onward NRV welcomed J.W. Martin, General Manager of the Pulaski River Turtles, as the guest speaker for this in-person event.

Scott Blankenship, Chairman of the Onward NRV Board of Directors, welcomed elected officials and investors to the event. He then turned it over to Executive Director Charlie Jewell. Charlie updated investors on recent prospect activity, marketing campaign results from FY 2020-21, and the 2021 cohort of the NRV Experience. After Charlie’s progress report, Jim McAlister of First Bank & Trust, the event’s sponsor, thanked the leaders in the New River Valley for navigating the region through the COVID-19 pandemic.

James Cabler, Director of Business Engagement, then welcomed J.W. Martin to podium. J.W. spoke about the formation of the Appalachian League, the rebranding of the Pulaski River Turtles, and the team’s connection to the New River Valley. He then took several questions from the crowd.

At the end of the event, attendees were encouraged to watch a commercial from First Bank & Trust that was played on the Jumbotron prior to the Pulaski River Turtles baseball game.

Thank you to everyone who attended the event and to the 100+ investors who make Onward New River Valley’s work possible. Watch the recording of the event above or on Onward NRV’s YouTube channel.

This event was sponsored by First Bank & Trust. Watch their commercial that was featured at the event below.

Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.