Search Continues for Missing Man on Blue Ridge Parkway
The National Park Service and local law enforcement agencies are still looking for Brent Gibson, a 26-year-old man who went missing last week. On March 3, his vehicle was found at the Roanoke River Overlook with his belongings inside.
According to officials, Gibson is a 6’5” white man who weighs around 240 lbs. and is believed to be in Roanoke, Vinton, or Bedford County.
Gibson’s family is asking the public for information pertaining to their lost family member, especially those traveling in or through the area on March 3 last week. Reporting what you saw or even didn’t see, could be vital information in the search.
There are still multiple emergency management agencies in the Roanoke area continuing to assist in the missing person search. If you have seen or talked to Gibson, or you know of his whereabouts, you are asked to call Parkway Dispatch at 828- 298-2491.
More information HERE
Help Black Girls Hike RVA Purchase Transportation
Black Girls Hike RVA (BGHRVA), a local hiking group based in Richmond, is asking the public to help raise money to purchase their very own vehicle for transporting participants to and from their outdoor outings. With many of their adventures being outside of Richmond, having their own transportation would greatly increase accessibility for participants and reduce the hassle of carpooling.
The organization was formed back in March og 2020 by Narshara Tucker and Nicole Boyd with the intention of creating a safe and supportive environment for women of color to get outside.
“We cannot put into words what having our own transportation van would mean to our organization, BGHRVA states on their GoFundMe page, “Your donation will help us connect other people with nature and expose them to the many benefits of hiking.”
They are also currently growing their organization by creating a youth hiking program that will help transport kids to various hiking adventures that vary from local trails and state parks to places in the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park. Obtaining a vehicle would also greatly contribute to this effort.
You can help by donating HERE and/or sharing their GoFundMe Page.
James River Association Launches Guided River Trips
The James River Association (JRA) recently launched registration for the 2021 season of guided river trips called “Connect with the James.” The programs make it fully accessible for the public to experience a day on the water while learning about the wildlife, history, and natural resources of the beloved James River. The trips run in the areas of Greater Richmond and Williamsburg and allow participants to choose from canoeing, kayaking, or even pontoon boat tours.
In response to last year’s many Covid-19 restrictions, the JRA stepped up and increased the number of “Connect with the James” trips to help more people safely explore the outdoors.
“Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, the James River Association has been committed to continuing the work of getting people outside and connecting with the James River, but in a safe, socially distant, and fun environment,” said Aaron Bouchard, Master Captain and Environmental Educator of the JRA. “Our Connect with the James program provides a great opportunity to join JRA staff and educators on the water and to gain a renewed or continued appreciation for what the James River can offer us.”
You can pre-register for their programs HERE and learn more about the JRA and all that they do for the James River HERE.
