News Release
Before the Storm: How Harrisonburg Small Businesses Can Recession-Proof Their Operations
Recession-proofing your business means building resilience before conditions force it — not scrambling mid-contraction. The Federal Reserve found that 56% of small employer firms struggled to cover operating expenses in a stable economy; a downturn compounds that pressure fast. For Harrisonburg businesses navigating JMU's seasonal revenue cycles and Rockingham County's manufacturing base, the window to prepare is open now.Does Your Business Have More Than 27 Days of Cash? Picture two shops facing the
Open Doors Seeks Community Leaders to Serve on Board of Directors
Open Doors is seeking community members interested in serving on its Board of Directors beginning July 1, 2026. We especially welcome individuals with experience in marketing, communications, public relations, fundraising, development, or grant writing. Board service focuses on strategy, governance, and counsel, not the expectation of donated professional services or products. We also welcome with warmth interest from those with other professional backgrounds and lived experiences. Board service offers a
When Every Hire Counts: Smart Hiring Practices for New Harrisonburg Businesses
Hiring well is one of the most consequential decisions a new business owner makes — and the cost of getting it wrong is far higher than most people expect. A bad hire costs at least 30% of that employee's first-year earnings, with total replacement costs reaching one to two times their annual salary. In Harrisonburg's growing economy, where your early team members shape your culture, your customer experience, and your reputation, building a deliberate hiring process from day one is worth the
Hang 10 Car & Dog Wash | Opening of our newest location on South Main Street in Harrisonburg
We’re excited to share big news from Hang 10! Hang 10 Car Wash is now Hang 10 Car & Dog Wash, and we’re proud to announce the opening of our newest location on South Main Street in Harrisonburg. These updates reflect our continued commitment to serving our community with convenient, high-quality wash experiences. Thanks to feedback from local businesses, we’ve also made major improvements to our Business Wash Programs. Unlimited Fleet Plans now require just two vehicles (down from five), and our
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Wes Dove Scores Third #1 Amazon Best-Seller with ''The Values Advantage''
Harrisonburg, VA – March 8, 2026 – Wes Dove, founder of Dove Development & Consulting and a renowned leadership expert with over 25 years in safety, human resources, and leadership development, has once again topped Amazon's charts. His latest book, The Values Advantage: The Foundation for Leading with a Clear Purpose, achieved #1 Best-Seller status in multiple categories during pre-release, before its official launch on February 20, 2026 (National Leadership Day). This marks Dove's third consecutive #1
Creating a More Secure and Reliable IT Foundation
For the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Chamber of Commerce and its members, business resilience is no longer a “nice to have.” It’s a daily requirement. From cyber threats and severe weather to supply chain disruptions and remote work demands, local businesses in Rockingham County face the same digital risks as national firms—often with fewer resources. A strong IT infrastructure is not about having the newest gadgets. It’s about building systems that keep your business running, protect your data, and adapt
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Blue Ridge Safety Association Recognizes OSHA 10 Hour General Industry Recipients
The Blue Ridge Safety Association (BRSA), the Shenandoah Valley’s leading nonprofit safety network, proudly announces that employees from three local valley organizations have earned their OSHA 10-Hour General Industry cards — demonstrating their commitment to creating safer workplaces. Notice that individuals seeking certification include wide ranging occupations like quality management, warehouse team members, supervisory and human resource
Virtue Solar: Is Solar Still Worth It Without the Federal Tax Credit?
Virtue Solar, a solar installation company in Virginia, publishes new analysis showing solar remains a strong investment despite the elimination of the 30% residential tax credit — and explains why demand is actually accelerating. VIRGINIA — With the 30% federal residential solar tax credit eliminated by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act as of December 31, 2025, homeowners across the country are asking the same question: Is Solar Still Worth It Without the Tax Credit? Virtue Solar, a Virginia-based
Roots Natural Kitchen Celebrates Grand Opening of Harrisonburg Location on E Market St
Roots Natural Kitchen is celebrating the grand opening of its Harrisonburg location on March 7, 2026, expanding its presence in Virginia following the success of its university locations at UVA, VCU, and Virginia Tech. Located at 1760 E Market St, the new restaurant sits next to James Madison University, ready to fuel the Dukes. With this opening, Roots is excited to become a go-to spot for JMU students while also serving the greater Harrisonburg community. Menu highlights include favorites like El
Smart Ways to Select Outside Help for Sales and Marketing
Business owners in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County often reach a point where growth requires more than internal effort. The challenge isn’t just getting help—it’s finding the right external professionals who can sharpen sales pipelines, refine messaging, and expand market reach. This article walks through how to evaluate, select, and work effectively with outside specialists so your business gains measurable momentum. Learn below What kinds of professionals support sales and marketing growth How to
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
How to Maintain Steady Cash Flow While Growing Your Small Business
When you're running a small business, cash flow isn't just a financial term — it's your daily oxygen. Whether you're launching a new product, expanding your team, or simply covering overhead, staying liquid is the difference between growth and grind. Below, we break down practical, actionable tactics that help keep your cash flow steady — and your business strong. Start With the Basics: Know Where Your Money’s Going One of the first signs of unstable cash flow is not knowing your current cash
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
Solar Tax Credits may be going away - Virtue Solar
Virtue Solar, a trusted local solar installer serving Central Virginia since 2015, has published a new blog post explaining important developments in Congress that could significantly affect the federal solar tax credit. The post outlines proposed changes in the Senate that would shorten the timeline for claiming the 30% federal tax credit—especially for homeowners. Under the current bill, residential solar systems would only be eligible for the credit up to 180 days after the legislation is signed into
Reviving Human Connection in Digital Commerce
In the not-so-distant past, a business transaction often came with a smile, a shared moment, maybe even a conversation about the weather or the kids. But the growing dominance of touchscreens, chatbots, and home-office routines has dulled those sparks. Small businesses—the ones built on trust, neighborhood familiarity, and human presence—now face a digital frost. The irony is stark: as the world becomes more connected by technology, the emotional distance between buyers and sellers keeps expanding. For
What Do Watts, Kilowatts, and Kilowatt-Hours Really Mean for Solar?
New Blog: 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
Dominion Energy’s NEM 2.0 Proposal: What It Means for Solar in Virginia
Virtue Solar, a leading solar installation company serving Harrisonburg, VA, has released a new blog post discussing critical proposed changes to Virginia's net metering policy by Dominion Energy. As a company committed to building high-quality solar systems, Virtue Solar highlights the significant implications of these changes for homeowners looking to install solar, as well as commercial solar customers The blog explains the fundamentals of net metering, which currently allows solar energy producers to
Reach New Milestones by Harnessing Expert Sales and Marketing Insights
In today’s competitive business environment, identifying and utilizing the right expertise is crucial for growth. Success in sales and marketing goes beyond having a strong product or service; it requires strategically addressing gaps with the right professionals. Finding these experts can significantly impact your business's trajectory. This article provides practical steps to help you make informed decisions in hiring external experts. Learn how to enhance your strategies and drive your business
