Good morning, Blacksburg.

Hope Center hosted its annual cookout on Friday, May 22, at its Blacksburg campus to promote community safety & offer local families free food and safety tips.

The event highlighted efforts to strengthen neighborhood bonds through shared meals.

Teachers met on Friday, May 22 at a local school to exchange methods aimed at boosting reading comprehension.

The workshop offered practical strategies to help improve student learning.

After months of drought, steady rain is forecast to help local farmers resume planting today, said extension agent Stephen Barts—though full recovery will take several days.

Governor Spanberger ordered that flags on state and local buildings be flown at half-staff in honor of Memorial Day + they will be lowered at sunrise Monday, May 25 and remain half-staff until noon.

Chronic Wasting Disease cases in Virginia rose from 109 to 126 this year while DWR maintained current disease management areas.

The agency banned deer baiting within 25 miles of a positive case & restricted moving deer brain and spinal tissues to curb the spread.

Fit Body Boot Camp will host the 6th annual Murph Challenge today from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. at its Blacksburg facility to honor Navy SEAL Lt. Michael Murphy and fallen service members — with modified workout options and fundraising support for The WWII Museum of the NRV.

Hometown Health research found that mental health disorders became the leading cause of disabilities (published May 22), a finding that points to a change in local health challenges.

A CPR and AED training special highlighted lifesaving techniques with local instructors on May 22 in a Blacksburg community facility.

Participants practiced critical skills and emergency response measures to boost preparedness.

Local organizers in Blacksburg hosted a CPR and AED training session yesterday that highlighted essential lifesaving skills.

Updated segments explained techniques to respond to emergencies.