Good morning, Blacksburg.

God's Pit Crew is starting to help communities damaged by severe winter storms (local roads remain blocked) by coordinating volunteers to clear debris and repair homes.

The group will work today to support residents as conditions remain harsh.

Montgomery County Public Schools approved Dr. Kelly Guempel as the new superintendent, and he will start on Feb.

1. Guempel brings extensive experience from Spotsylvania County Public Schools and other educational roles (including teaching, coaching, and administration).

A local Ag Tech graduate (recognized for her achievements) broke barriers as a woman in the meat processing industry by earning top honors last week.

Her success is expected to inspire future students and strengthen local industry.

APCo crews restored nearly 90% of power after Winter Storm Fern affected 57 counties, leaving about 4,300 customers without service as of Tuesday.

Crews had aimed to restore most power by 11 p.m. Jan. 27 — cleanup continued into early hours amid more winter weather forecasts.

Sen. Mark Peake introduced a bill to make the brown-belted bumblebee Virginia's official native pollinator.

The Senate passed the measure 36-2 and it now goes to the House for further review.

Hometown Health reports that cold temperatures challenge heart health and raise indoor risks as medical staff (braving wintry roads) urge locals to take precautions during icy conditions.

Carilion New River Valley Medical Center earned its second Pathway to Excellence designation from the American Nursing Credentialing Center, confirming its support for nurses and care quality.

The award, based on 63 performance elements (including leadership and professional development), makes CNRV one of six Virginia hospitals with the honor.

Maintenance staff braved icy roads on Tuesday, Jan.

27 to assist a patient in need in Blacksburg. Their timely efforts helped ensure the patient received critical care despite hazardous winter conditions.

Two maintenance workers at LewisGale Hospital Montgomery braved snowy conditions last weekend to pick up baby formula for a newborn who had not eaten for three days.

They drove through icy roads to Walmart and overcame the storm to help a patient in need.

YMCA at Virginia Tech partners with The Blood Connection to host monthly drives to boost blood supply in Blacksburg.

The next drive will be Tuesday, Feb. 3 from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Lancaster House (403 Washington St. SW), and donors receive a $30 gift card.

Since the early 1990s, longtime Hokie fans Jeffrey and Sandy Birch have supported Virginia Tech women's basketball and built a close community.

They continue to attend games and create new traditions (including ritual recruiting visits) as the team marks its 50th season at Cassell Coliseum.

Girls Night Out Event

8:00-10:30 p.m. — The Milk Parlor — Limited tickets available — Experience the ultimate ladies night with fun, excitement, and empowerment.

2026 Blacksburg Classic 10 Miler & 5K

Feb 16-22 — Margaret Beeks Elementary School — Registration required — Participate virtually in the 41st edition of a beloved local running event.

Virginia Tech Hokies vs. Rutgers Scarlet Knights Baseball

1-5 p.m. — English Field — Tickets $10-$1000 — Catch an exciting college baseball matchup under the sun at English Field.