News
Ensuring Secure Online Business Transactions for Bedford-Area Organizations
Local businesses across the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce increasingly rely on digital tools to reach customers, invoice partners, and exchange sensitive documents. Yet as online activity grows, so do attempts at fraud, data theft, and unauthorized access. Strengthening transaction security isn’t just a technical task — it’s a business resilience strategy. This article covers: Why secure transactions matter for local businesses How to reduce exposure to common online risks Practical tools and
Virtue Solar Releases New Guide on Locking In Low Energy Rates for Virginia Homeowners in 2026
One of Virginia’s top solar companies explores rising electricity costs and new financing options for Virginia residentsVirtue Solar is pleased to announce the release of our latest blog post, "How to Lock In 25 Years of Low Energy Rates in 2026," which examines the current energy landscape in Virginia and how homeowners can protect themselves from rising utility costs. With electricity prices climbing faster than inflation and significant rate increases already approved for the coming years, this article
SML Civitan Club News Release: 1/6/2026
Happy New Year fellow Bedford Chamber Members! Reflecting on 2025, the SML Civitan Club is proud of a year filled with service, fellowship, and meaningful impact throughout the Smith Mountain Lake community. Our members came together for hands-on service projects, supported local food pantries, assisted outreach programs for individuals with special needs, and awarded a scholarship to a local college-bound student. We also enjoyed a successful year of fundraising & fellowship, highlighted by our annual
The Double-Edged Canvas: How AI-Powered Design Tools Are Transforming Creativity and Commerce
When Design Meets Algorithm Graphic design once required years of experience, a refined aesthetic eye, and mastery of complex tools. Today, artificial intelligence has rewritten that equation. Tools like Magic Design and Firefly are transforming how businesses—especially small ones—create visual content. With a few prompts, non-designers can generate high-quality visuals that rival professional work. But with every wave of innovation comes tension: speed versus depth, automation versus artistry, and
Victory for Virginia Solar as State Corporation Commission Preserves APCo Net Metering
Virtue Solar, a leading solar installation company in Virginia, has released a new blog post titled "Victory for Virginia Solar: Net Metering Preserved!" analyzing the State Corporation Commission's landmark ruling on Appalachian Power's net metering proposal issued August 29, 2025.The comprehensive article examines the SCC's decision to largely reject Appalachian Power's proposed changes that would have reduced compensation for solar customers by approximately 70%. The ruling preserves the current net
What the “Big Beautiful Bill” Means for Solar in Virginia
Virtue Solar, a leading solar installation company in Virginia, has released a new blog post titled “What the “Big Beautiful Bill” Means for Solar in Virginia”. It explores the implications of the recent "One Big Beautiful Bill" on the solar industry, particularly for Virginia residents. Signed into law on July 4th, 2025, this significant piece of energy legislation introduces several changes to solar tax credits and incentives, impacting timelines and options for both residential and commercial solar
What Do Watts, Kilowatts, and Kilowatt-Hours Really Mean for Solar?
If you're looking into solar for your home, you've probably come across numbers like “10kW system” or “produces 12,000 kWh per year.” And if those numbers feel a bit abstract, you’re not alone. We’ve been installing quality solar in Virginia since 2015, and just published a new article to break it all down in plain English. It covers the basics—what a watt is, how kilowatts and kilowatt-hours are different, and why it matters when comparing solar quotes. We also touch on a common myth we hear all the
