Thomas Jefferson Wine Festival 2012

 

English: View of the restored Thomas Jefferson...

Thomas Jefferson Wine Festival2012 is Nov 17, 11am till 5pm. Enjoy Jefferson’s private retreat Popular Forest during a great day of wine, food, and entertainment.

 

Mr. Jefferson was well known for his wine and the design of his homes. Poplar Forest is the lesser known of Mr. Jefferson’s estates, he often traveled there for escape the visitors to Monticello.

Prices:

$20 advance
$25 at door
Non-tasting, $10
Ages 11 and under are free

All reservations are final. Reduce priced advanced tickets must be purchased before 5:00 p.m. on Friday, November 16. All tickets sold after 5:00 p.m. Friday will be $25.

Bedford Welcome Center / Bedford
Bedford Welcome Center / Forest
Aylor’s
Basket Case
Lynchburg Welcome Center
Poplar Forest Museum Shop

House tours will be available throughout the day at a reduced rate. Tasting tickets include a complimentary wine glass. Must be 21 years or older to taste wines. Festival will occur rain or shine. All activities will be held in heated spaces

Wineries:

Barboursville Winery

DelFosse Vineyards and Winery

Gabriele Rausse Winery

Hickory Hill Vineyards and Winery

Jefferson Vineyards

Knights Gambit Vineyards

Peaks of Otter Winery

Pippin Hill Farm and Vineyards

Sans Soucy Vineyards

Rebec Vineyards

Savoy-Lee Winery

Veritas Vineyard and Winery

White Rock Vineyards and Winery

The Williamsburg Winery

 

Thomas Jefferson’s Popular Forrest
1542 Bateman Bridge Road (GPS)
Forest, VA 24551-0419
Telephone (434) 525-1806

Blue Angles Coming to Lynchburg Air Show May 21 / 22

 

Its official! The Blue Angels will be performing at the Lynchburg VA Air Show on May 21st and 22nd.

Known for their Blue Jets that perform stunts in very close formation, Lynchburg is very proud to have them perform at the air show. The Blue Angels are not the only ones performing, but they are the highest profile performers. Also performing will be the Flying Circus, the Black Daggers, and their will be a vintage car and fashion show.

 

This will be a two day event in perfect  for the families of Lynchburg and Bedford VA.  Cost of admission is $15 for adults  and $5 for children 3-11 in advance, $20 at the door.

 

 

 

County School Board Considers Closing Bedford Primary School

Bedford VA primary schoolBedford Primary School has been a staple of the community for many years. Its severs the county school system by taking in the youngest of our communities children. Many factors are driving this choice but the main force is money or a lack of it.

Shirking budgets from the state and federal government are a result of a down economy but also from the disdain elected officials feel towards education and social needs. A massive attempt is being made across our nation to reduce education costs and to get rid of the National Education Association.Reduced funding impacts students at all levels, not just the schools on the chopping blocks, all of our schools will be faced with large class sizes, reduced funding for sports, less or no arts, less teachers.

Lets face it, nobody wants to pay more taxes, but costs of books, fuel, supplies, the growing amount of students, and the cost of living is going up. We as a community, a state, a nation need to think about what is important to us. If we want our children to have a bright future we need to fund their education now. For our children, there is no redo or going back.

It has been said many times “pay now or pay later!” and some people feel this pertains to our current national debt. What is the cost associated with not giving our children a good education. Uneducated people make poor choices, this will lead us to higher crime rates, needing more prisons, teen pregnancy,  and higher unemployment. We can pay to educate children now or pay for jail, Medicaid, food stamps……. later.

What to do? Call you elected officials at all levels. Let them know education is important and worth funding. Ask them to return funding to prior levels and to seriously consider raising funding above the prior levels.Lets make them work for us. In order to get their attention, we need to contact them in numbers. We need to stand together to let them know WE CARE! Our next School Board Meeting is in March.

Here is a list of local and state elected officials for Bedford.

State Representative

General Assembly Building

P.O. Box 406

Richmond, Virginia 23218

Phone: (804) 698-1019

Fax: (804) 698-6719

Email: DelLPutney@house.virginia.gov

Room Number: 947

Legislative Assistant: Betty Lou Layne

Secretary During Session: Betty Peaco

 

State Representative and Senator

http://conview.state.va.us/whosmy.nsf/main?openform

This is the link on the state website that will give you the opportunity to type in your address and email our Rep (Lacy Putney) and our Senator (Steve Newman)

 

Bedford County Board of Supervisors

http://www.bedford.k12.va.us/supervisors/supervisors.htm

 

Bedford County School Board

http://www.bedford.k12.va.us/school_board/school_board.htm

 

Euthanasia rate down at the Lynchburg Humane Society

Bo is a full blooded boxer found by the Lynchburg Humane SocietyThe Lynchburg Humane Society set an ambitious goal one year ago. They wanted to become a no-kill shelter, in prior years the rate of euthanasia was considered high among local residents. One year after taking over as executive director of the Lynchburg Humane Society, Makena Yarbough announced a 61% decrease in the euthanasia rate.

The Lynchburg Humane Society incorporated several measures to help reduce euthanasia, using education they were able to help 298 animal owners with pet issues or re-home their pet.

There is a low costs spay and neuter clinic all the area shelters use for animals who come through their shelters, it also provides services for those who have limited income.

The shelter has also adopted several other policies that have helped its issues. They work with the press to share information and education. Created an “open room” area for cats, and have gotten the community more involved by having more events.

 

Best Friend Ball

Honorary Chairs: Jane, Ken and “Sugah” White


The only black tie bash in Lynchburg where your pets are invited


Saturday, April 30th
Tresca on 8th
6:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Catered by: Avenue Foods
Cocktail Bars sponsored by: Tri Tech Laboratories
Band: The Almost Brothers with Lauren Smyk
Ticket Price: $100 per person, $75 per pet


This black tie benefit is in support of the Lynchburg Humane Society’s Second Chance Fund. This fund gives animals a second chance to receive the medical care they deserve. All money donated will go towards vaccines, testing and medical treatment.


Event Details:

Guests will enjoy an exciting evening of gourmet food, open bars, a Kool Kat lounge, live band, pet parade and silent and live auctions. We will also be presenting our first ever Hill City Humane Award.  The annual award recognizes the remarkable work of an individual or corporation who has worked diligently for the benefit of companion animals in the Lynchburg community.
For those guests who bring their pet, we will have a pet presentation of all the pets with professional photos of you all gussied up. Volunteer escorts will be available for pets of guests who wish to enjoy their evening pet free after the pet festivities.

For tickets please call 434-238-3181 or download the reply card and email it to BFB@lynchburghumane.org or mail to 3305 Naval Reserve Road, Lynchburg, VA  24501.

Lynchburg Symphony Orchestra Valentines Day Gala

Heart logo

Spend a magical, romantic evening with friends at the Lynchburg Symphony Orchestra’s 9th Annual Valentine Gala, “I’m in the Mood for Love,” on Saturday, Feb. 12, from 7:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. at the lovely Boonsboro Country Club, Lynchburg VA.

The evening begins with the lilting strains of the Lynchburg String Quartet. Enjoy some hors d’oeuvres and an open bar for one hour. Mediterranean cuisine will then be served for dinner (there will be a cash bar).

The House Band will then rock the house for a night of dancing.

Tickets for this black-tie optional event are $125 per person and may be purchased by calling the symphony office at (434) 845-6604, or online at www.lynchburgtickets.com/gala

All proceeds benefit the Lynchburg Symphony Orchestra.

Editors note:

Each year, this event gets better and better. Great people, food, and music for a great cause. Come out and support the arts in Lynchburg.

Bust of Stalin to return to National D-Day Memorial

DDay memorial in Bedford VABust of Stalin to return to National D-Day Memorial in Bedford VA.

Joseph Stalin

Image via Wikipedia

Bedford Va’s National D-Day memorial reported this week they are looking into ways to reinstall the bust of Russian dictator Joseph Stalin. The bust of Stalin created a large controversy in 2010 after it was installed at the National D-Day Memorial. Several veterans groups in Bedford and from other areas of the country. Even Bedford County Board of Supervisors denounced the installation of the bust.

Joseph Stalin was leader of the Soviet Union from 1922 until his death in 1953. He directed the Soviet Army during World War II and was part of the Allies leadership that finally defeated the Axis powers. During his oppressive rule, he systemically eliminated his opponents in the USSR and ordered the killing of ethnic minorities.

From left to right: Joseph Stalin, Franklin D....

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Bedford VA is the home of the National D-Day Memorial. The memorial is dedicated to those who participated in the D-Day invasion on the coast of Normandy, France on June 4, 1944. This was the largest amphibious invasion of all time, with over 160,000 Allied troops attacking. it is estimated that as many as 19,000 men lost their lives during the invasion. Bedford is noted of having the highest death rate per capita during the invasion.

Groupon hits Roanoke

Groupon has come to Roanoke!

Groupon logo.
Image via Wikipedia

Groupon is a way for local business to drive a great deal of new business to their establishment. People sign up for a free membership to Groupon. Each day Groupon sends an email with the special of the day, if enough people purchase the coupon, then everyone can use the coupon. Today’s Groupon offer-55% savings at the Science Museum of Western Virginia. Adult Ultimate tickets, normally $13 for $6 and kids normally$11 is not $5.

Any type of business, can offer significant savings by using this service, hopefully it will send lots of new customers who will return for future business.

Sign up and give it a try! Its free, you only pay when you want to buy a particular day’s special. Then print out the receipt or have it sent to your phone and take it to the vendor.

The Roanoke Star is the origin of the city's n...

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So far this week, in addition to what was mentioned above, the deals have included 55% off food at a restaurant, 50% off skin treatments at an exclusive salon.

There are other vendors offering the same type of service, such as Living Social and from time to time some local radio stations have tried it too. We will keep you posted.

Winter Sports in and around Bedford County VA

Kids learning to paly hockeyWinter is a great time to live and visit Bedford VA. Located Between Lynchburg and Roanoke we have a large choice of winter sports anyone can enjoy.

The parks are open year round for hiking, walking, and exploring. Its easy to get out and enjoy the great outdoors.

The Roanoke Civic Center offers public skating several times a week. it is also the home of several Valley Youth Hockey, The Roanoke Valley Adult Hockey Association, and the Roanoke Chapter of Rusty Blades. There is a league for all levels and age groups.
The Valley Youth Hockey offers Learn to play programs, leagues, and a travel team.
The Adult Hockey Association offers players 16 and up a high level of competitive non-check hockey.
The B League- Competitive level of play for mid level adult players.
The Rusty Blades is a non-profit club also designed to be a high level of non-contact play. The league is for “mature” skaters aged 45 or above with a focus on skills and fun.
The Roanoke Civic Center is also the home rink of the Virginia Tech Hokies Hockey Teams. Tickets are $5 per adult and free for children 12 and under.

LaHaye Ice Rink, Lynchburg VA. Home to Liberty University‘s hockey teams, the rink also is a great spot for hockey, ice skating, and figure skating.
The Lynchburg Youth Hockey Association provides a supportive environment for youth players of all levels.
The Lynchburg Leagues- Thee are A and B leagues based upon player skills. They offer a good level of non-contact play.
Rusty Blades- Lynchburg- Some of the same players from the Roanoke group and part of the same non-profit.
Liberty University Hockey Teams- Liberty uses two levels of teams to help develop the skills and talents of the students.
The Liberty Snowflex Center-This is an outdoor ski slope like no other in the United States! Instead of snow, the Snowflex uses a synthetic material simulating real snow.

Within a days drive
Wintergreen-Has long been the skiing / snow boarding location for many people in Central Virginia. Located in Nelson County, its just a short drive with plenty of quaint shops, wineries, and antique stores along the way.
The Homestead-Located in Hot Springs, a small community in Bath County, the Homestead offers a complete resort for those looking for a vacation.

The Bedford and Lynchburg Humane Society need your help

The Bedford and Lynchburg Humane Society need your help!Bo is a full blooded boxer found by the Lynchburg Humane Society

This holiday season the Bedford Humane Society and the Lynchburg Humane Society need your help.

The Bedford Humane Society is constructing a no-kill shelter to serve Bedford City and Bedford County. While they are raising funds, they are still helping area animals, often helping locate lost pets, assisting with adoptions and those who are having issues providing food and medical services to their pets.
Currently the Bedford Humane Society is competing in two Christmas Tree competitions, one at Mariners Landing and the other is inside the Bedford Welcome Center. Both competitions are from area non-profits and will raise funds for local charities. Please come out and support them.

The Lynchburg Humane Society is in desperate need to dog and cat food. They recently sent out a message asking for food and supplies, usually they have a stockpile of food. They are becoming a no-kill shelter and find they have to keep animals longer, requiring the use of more food and supplies. If your buying food for your pet, pick up an extra bag or two or just send a check.

Image via Wikipedia

Bo and Duke are examples of why you should consider adopting a dog from your local shelter.

Holiday Events in the City of Bedford

Holiday Events in the City of Bedford!

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During the month of December, each Friday merchants of downtown Bedford stay open late (till 9m). Come visit Centertown to celebrate a traditional Holiday! Old fashioned Carriage rides ($2 for 12and under $4 for adults) through Historic Centertown Bedford,  get your pictures with Santa, just like you used to do at department stores. Jeff East will be taking them at Geri’s Sister-to-Sister Boutique and he has many package options.

Make sure to visit Centertown Park for Hot Chocolate, warm apple cider and other refreshments.While your downtown, enjoy a walk around town, see the Christmas decorations, and get some shopping done.

After you get your shopping done, stop by Clam diggers or drive around the neighborhoods and see the Historic Home deck out for Christmas.