Collegiate Times

When ?Blacksburg, Va.? comes to mind, images of football, tailgating, Hokie Birds, and orange and maroon bedecked legions of Tech faithful aren?t far behind. Missing from this list is anything having to do with trends, shopping, fashion, boutiques and anything related to buying something new.

However, the average Hokie would be pleased to know that a few new stores have turkey-trotted their way into town over the summer and are now open for business.

Among those making their Blacksburg debut are ?Gourmet Pantry,? ?Alligator Alley? and ?The Tan Company.?

Located below Clay Court apartments on North Main Street, ?Gourmet Pantry? offers a variety of kitchenware, cutlery and gourmet foods such as meats, cheeses, wines, coffees, and teas ? not to mention chocolates. Other products include Burt?s Bees products, linens, gift cards, home fragrances, candles and small appliances.

Owner Roya Nazare said, ?(Gourmet Pantry) has the best cheese selections in town as well as a good assortment of specialty meats.? Also offered are customizable gift baskets, as well as a range of cooking classes and demonstrations on anything from ethnic cooking to knife skill to cake making. Wine tastings are held every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

A complete listing of classes can be found online at gourmetpantryonline.com. Those interested can sign up at the store. Adjoining Gourmet Pantry on the right is ?Alligator Alley?, a clothing store specializing in Lacoste. The store would not comment about their recent opening.

For all those wondering what the lighted spectacle above Ben and Jerry?s is, look no further. ?The Tan Company?, with over 70 locations in 10 states nationwide, has found a home in Blacksburg?s Kent Square.

With a website that boasts ?the very best tanning facilities and customer service,? ?The Tan Company? offers customers tanning lotions from brands like Australian Gold and Swedish Beauty as well as multiple levels of tanning in various packages ranging from $24.88 to $88.88. Facilities include not only a Mystic Tan option, but also eight to 20 minute tanning beds and a stand-up bed.

?We have the nicest beds out there and a hospital-clean environment,? said Jessica Holley, manager of the Tan Company?s Blacksburg location. To learn more about the Tan Company and hear about the current specials going on, visit the store or www.thetanco.com for details.