Gene Marrano
Ballast Point is closing its Botetourt County kitchen and tasting room, but its parent company says it will keep the east coast brewery and distribution center open. Botetourt County officials say the announcement took them entirely by surprise. The taproom and retail location will be closing at the end of the month, according to a spokeswoman with Constellation Brands. Ballast Point began its operations there in the June of 2017, and at a ribbon cutting at that time, County Administrator Gary Larrowe spoke about the opening:
There had been reports from ex-employees recently about Ballast Point reducing its staff there, although some online chatter from Ballast Point fans said the tasting room seemed to be busy much of the time.
CONSTELLATION BRANDS NEWS RELEASE: “As seen throughout the beer industry, growth in craft beer is being driven largely by local brands. With that, we are appropriately reallocating Ballast Point investments to drive growth in core local markets. We thank the local Daleville community, its surrounding neighbors and our taproom employees for their support and dedication over past couple of years.
We will continue to make a positive impact to the local economy through the operation of the Daleville brewing facility, which represents a robust hub for Constellation’s future innovation in support of our specialty portfolio.”
TSA photo
A third person has been found at Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport with a loaded handgun this year. It happened yesterday when the TSA found a loaded 9mm gun at a checkpoint in a carry-on bag after an x-ray. The gun was confiscated and the owner was cited on a weapons charge by the police. Six guns were found at the airport checkpoint in 2018.
Debbie Custer (left) from Coeus Research/ Clark Palmer photo
You hear it all the time now or see it in stores – CBD infused products that claim to have health benefits. Debbie Custer with Coeus Research and the Innovation Mill in Vinton said live in studio this morning its a 6 billion dollar annual industry now that could grow exponentially. Hear the complete conversation below:
A former California state senator worked his way through Virginia last week and stopped in Roanoke on Friday – making his case for changing the way electoral colleges choose the President. WFIR’s Gene Marrano spoke with Ray Haynes:
Click below to hear an extended conversation with Ray Haynes on the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact:
A residential development proposal in Salem off Upland Drive could bring as many as 150 housing units to the former “Simms Farm” property. Its drawn so much opposition (for its size) from neighbors that the Planning Commission hearing was postponed a month until next Wednesday night (Sept 11, 7pm) and moved to the Salem Civic Center in anticipation of a large turnout. The proposed plan shows a mix of town homes and detached houses. Many of those opposed display “responsible development” signs in their front yard. There are not many undeveloped large parcels left in the City of Salem.