Babysitter left child without food or water for up to 21 hours until parents...
BEDFORD COUNTY, Va. (WDBJ/Gray News) - A babysitter in Virginia accused of abusing a child she was watching will be spending time in jail. Carly Webb was sentenced on Friday to serve 12 months in jail and three years on probation. According to the Commonwealth, Webb abused the child between...
Multi-vehicle fire extinguished in Bedford County
BEDFORD COUNTY, Va. (WDBJ) - A multi-vehicle fire was extinguished in Bedford County Sunday, March 15, according to Forest Fire Department. Firefighters responded to a vehicle fire in Lake Vista, where two vehicles were engulfed in flames, with the fire spreading to two more vehicles and vinyl siding melting onto one...
Virginia Yokohama plant closes in advance of anticipated schedule
The decision to close was in response to the expiration of certain product lifecycles and reduced demand for other products at the Salem facility. Salem, Va.—Yokohama Tire has announced it has permanently close its manufacturing plant in Salem, Va., as of Wednesday March 18. Previously, the company announced a...
This Tiny U.S. Town Earned a Shocking Nickname
Across the United States, small towns often carry big stories tied to local history and culture. Some are known for […]
Weapon incident at Bedford Elementary School resolved
On March 13, 2026, the Bedford County Sheriff’s Office and school administrators responded to a report that a weapon had been brought to Bedford Elementary School. Staff followed safety protocols, secured the item, and removed the student from the classroom. No one was injured, and there is no active threat.
NRV gallery exhibition showcases local artists
BLACKSBURG, Va. (WFXR) – The YMCA at Virginia Tech is hosting a community art exhibition titled ‘Exploring Art in the NRV.’ The aim of the exhibition is to showcase the vibrant artistic atmosphere that shapes the culture and identity of the New River Valley. Artwork is on display through April 10, with a free public...
Virginia Tech researchers working on experimental vaccine to combat opioid addiction
BLACKSBURG, Va. (WDBJ) - A Virginia Tech research team is working to develop a vaccine that could help stop opioid addiction. Data from the Virginia Department of Health show opioid overdose deaths spiked in 2021, with more than 2,000 deaths statewide. By 2024, that number had dropped to roughly 1,000. Data from 2025...
Brandon Meade: Director of environmental, health and safety, New River Electrical Corp.
For Brandon Meade, emerging technologies can boost safety on the construction job site—though nothing can replace tried-and-true traditional practices. Meade, director of environmental, health and safety at New River Electrical Corp. in Cloverdale, Va., shares his career journey and his strategies for keeping New...
Big Ol’Fish: March 13, 2026
ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) — WFXR’s George Noloff enjoys everything outdoors. So, when he sees other people having a blast on the water, he wants them to share their photos of Big Ol’Fish!. If you have a photo or video of your Big Ol’ Fish, share them with...
Blacksburg Weather: Showers and Thunderstorms Monday Before Rain Changes to Snow Overnight
Country Herald is Local News, Independent Pulse. Covering breaking local news, sports, lifestyle and events. Blacksburg, VA – Clouds will gradually increase across the New River Valley today as a mild weekend leads into a wetter start to the week with rain, thunderstorms and even a chance of snow. Saturday will...

















