Blue Ridge Optics, an industry leader in laser optics and thin film coatings, will expand its business in Bedford, adding up to 15 jobs and an investment of more than $1 million.

The funds are intended to increase the number of RA programs within the public and private sectors.

The “Southside Viticulture Primer” will be held April 13, 2016 from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm at The Homeplace Vineyard, 568 Rigney Circle, Chatham, VA.

Gov. Terry McAuliffe announced Monday, February 29, that Bedford County will receive $600,000 in Industrial Revitalization grant funds.

After a 45-year hiatus, the Bedford County Fair joined the VAF and left its first annual conference with 6 different awards.

Kelly Harmony, who is a native of Bedford, was sworn in on January 20, 2016.

This grant will be utilized to establish a Zero Interest Loan Program to assist entrepreneurs and will accelerate the economic revitalization.

The program will require participants to attend one class a week from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. to learn about flux-cored arc welding and gas metal arc welding.

Georgia-Pacific is launching a year-long commemoration throughout 2016 to honor the mill.

The Burg released a 2015 list of local favorites in 60 categories. In five categories, Bedford County businesses made the top three.