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(Bastian, Virginia) – A new dining establishment was celebrated Tuesday, April 19th as various officials, supporters, and patrons gathered for the celebration of a new business in Bland County. DownShift Diner, located at 46 Indian Village Trail in Bastian, officially marked its grand opening with a ribbon cutting event. Members of the Board of Supervisors, Economic Development Authority, the Wytheville, Wythe, Bland Chamber of Commerce, the Mt. Rogers Regional Partnership, representatives from Sen. Hackworth’s office, and a host of family, friends, and supporters were on hand to join in the celebration.

“We want to thank everyone for coming out today and for supporting us,” stated TJ Hicks, owner. Hicks continued, “We are excited to open a business here at I-77/Exit 58 in Bland County. There is a lot of economic momentum happening here and we are excited to be part of it.” Supervisors Stephen Kelley and Keith Costello were on hand to welcome the new business and joined in the official opening of the business by stating jointly, “On behalf of the Board of Supervisors, we are excited to see a new business open in Bland County. The determination and perseverance of the business owners to start and operate their establishments is gratifying to observe.” They continued, “Ribbon cuttings are great events, and we are excited to welcome a new business and celebrate business expansions. We encourage everyone to support all our local businesses in Bland County, as it is vital to not only their success, but to the success of the local economy.”

“Bland County has a resilient business community, and we welcome DownShift Diner and wish them much success,” stated David Dillow, chair of the Bland County Economic Development Authority. Additional information about DownShift Diner can be obtained from their Facebook page or by phone at 276-688-2366