ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1995, Roanoke Times
DATE: Sunday, December 24, 1995 TAG: 9512220007
SECTION: BUSINESS PAGE: F-1 EDITION: METRO
Here are sources of information about the Roanoke Valley for relocating families:
Roanoke Valley Visitor Information Center (345-8622), averages more than 60 requests a month. Laura Taylor, the visitor services coordinator, provides a packet that includes: Roanoke Valley Visitor and Newcomers Guide - information brochure with shopping, dining, lodging and attractions; Smith Mountain Lake brochure; Blue Ridge Parkway directory; real estate guide; apartment guide; demographics brochure; and a map showing average cost of housing in various areas.
The center also provides a copy of The Roanoke Times' annual "Discover" guide. A limited number of phone books are available. This last item could be the best thing to give an incoming executive before the move.
Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce (983-0700). Patti L. Dunbar, vice president for marketing, estimates that the chamber mails 75 to 100 relocation kits each week. The kit includes: Valley Life - a joint effort by area chambers; statistical guide - demographic information, utility information, tax rates; list of real estate and property management companies that are chamber members; list of apartment properties that belong to chamber members; list of employment services that are chamber members.
If requested, the chamber also will provide a map (cost $2) that covers the entire region.
Salem-Roanoke County Chamber of Commerce (387-0267). Rebecca Schuck, executive secretary, processes about 20 relocation packets each week. Each packet includes Valley Life. If specifically requested, the chamber will mail the following brochures: Roanoke County and Salem schools, real estate guide, a list of chamber members, apartment guide and a map of the area.
nChamber of Commerce of Vinton (343-1364). Judy Cunningham, secretary-treasurer, says the chamber is working with a committee to review its relocation packet. The current packet contains a brochure about Vinton, a business guide to Vinton and a map of the town.
WHAT DO NEWCOMERS WANT TO KNOW?
The little things we take for granted. The most common items mentioned by all those aware of relocation difficulties included finding: a hair stylist who can cut your hair the way it's been cut, an electrician, a plumber and a dry cleaner.
Also wanted are grocery stores that stock foods the new residents are familiar with and restaurants with cooking styles that match their expectations.
People also want physicians - especially pediatricians and specialists for those with chronic illnesses - dentists, lawyers, painters, child care and help with job opportunities for spouses.
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