Good morning, Blacksburg.

In recognition of academic excellence from fall 2025, 475 New River Community College students were placed on the President's and Dean's lists + certificates will be mailed soon and dual enrollment results will be announced after the spring semester.

Six Montgomery County schools met the highest accreditation standard in a state report presented last week, while other schools need improvements to meet compliance requirements — the Virginia Department of Education will offer training later this month for schools on track or needing intensive support.

A weekend snowstorm brought several inches of snowfall to the New River Valley and closed schools, with Saturday's snow settling on a holly bush.

Virginia Tech mallards were seen floating along Stroubles Creek on Sunday — a clear sign that winter's grip remains strong.

Supervisors approved a request from the Montgomery County school district to use $5,095,650 of CHS Capital Bond Interest for finishing renovations at Christiansburg High School and other district projects (including server and playground replacements) after concerns were raised over the extra costs.

Blacksburg Transit is adjusting its schedule as harsh cold weather continues, and riders should bundle up and plan for potential delays — check transit alerts for the latest updates.

YMCA at Virginia Tech partners with The Blood Connection for recurring blood drives.

Drives are scheduled on Tuesday, Feb. 24, Mar. 31, and Apr. 28 from noon to 4 p.m. at the Lancaster House parking lot (403 Washington St. SW), offering donors a $30 gift card incentive.

After two weeks of snow left cars with salt buildup, local expert Larry Hinton advises vehicle owners to wash soon using high-pressure car washes + power washers to prevent rust damage.

Residents should clean every opening to keep their cars in top shape.

Montgomery County supervisors approved a zoning change that will allow a hotel, restaurant, and convenience store near Carilion New River Valley Hospital along the 177 corridor.

The project will develop four parcels (three acres) at the intersection of Tyler Road and Meadow Creek Road over the next two years.

The Adam Ward Classic will celebrate its 10th anniversary in Blacksburg, marking ten years of local sports excellence; final details are expected to be released soon.

Virginia Tech softball earned preseason rankings in four polls (19, 20, 21, 24) ahead of the 2026 season after a 43-13 finish in 2025.

The team will open at the Gamecock Invitational Feb. 5-7 against South Carolina, Binghamton and Winthrop.

Eastern Montgomery High School announced that Neil Artrip, who served as the junior varsity coach since 2024 after 12 years coaching in a local recreation program, is the new head softball coach — he plans to build a more competitive team at district, regional and state competitions.

True junior Carys Baker has emerged as a key presence for the Hokies this winter, averaging 12.6 points and 6.3 rebounds per game while starting every game.

The Connecticut native has impressed fans with double-digit scoring and strong defense (including 15 blocks) in recent contests.

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.