Good morning, Blacksburg.

Appalachian Power has asked the State Corporation Commission to approve a rate increase that will raise energy bills by an average of $6.63 a month starting March 1 to cover costs for renewable energy projects and ensure its coal and natural gas plants meet environmental rules.

The utility plans to recover nearly $69 million+ an additional $60.6 million and aims to support its goal of a carbon free portfolio by 2050.

ACPS named its new schools superintendent on May 23 — the new leader will soon guide district initiatives to strengthen school programs.

A new study published in the National Academies Press shows that teens who practice driving with a parent or licensed driver have 30 percent fewer crash or near-crash events when driving alone.

The Virginia Tech research tracked 82 teen drivers using in-car cameras and recommends more supervised driving in varied conditions to boost safety.

Faculty in the College of Architecture, Arts, and Design are using research grants to test projects that make community spaces more flexible and eco-friendly—projects include a dynamic sound system, 3D-printed clay facades, accessible gaming tools, natural dye workshops, and low-cost radios for Malawi.

Gov. Glenn Youngkin held an EMS awards ceremony at the Virginia Executive Mansion during EMS Week from May 18 to May 24 to honor EMS workers who responded to millions of calls with care.

Awards were given to EMS leaders including the Blacksburg Volunteer Rescue Squad & a high school senior who was recognized with a scholarship for outstanding EMS service.

Community Health Center of the New River Valley held its groundbreaking for a new $14 million building at Akers Farm Road and 460 that will expand affordable care with new dental, physical therapy, and drive-through pharmacy services.

The center will serve 1,200 more patients and plans to move in January 2027—meeting the rising need for accessible healthcare in the region.

On Friday, the Community Health Center of the New River Valley began building a new $13.9M facility in Christiansburg that will offer medical, dental, mental, and substance abuse care to all residents.

Leaders said the center, which is set to open in 2027, marks a major step after years of planning—improving local access to care.

Ukrop’s announced a recall of marinated cucumber salad sold at Virginia Krogers and Food Lions after cucumbers grown by Bedner Growers Inc. were linked to salmonella contamination—products weighing 16 ounces, 36 ounces, or 5 lbs must be returned for a refund by May 26th.

Town of Blacksburg mailed its 2025 real estate tax invoices— due by June 27—for the first installment with a 10% penalty if not paid on time and 10% yearly interest starting July 23; residents who have not received their statement should call the Department of Financial Services at 540.961.1105.

Summer Flora Candle Making Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Beliveau Farm Winery — $41 plus fees — Craft two custom candles with summer floral scents while enjoying a relaxing winery atmosphere.

Lavender Fest Days

12-6 p.m. — Beliveau Farm Winery — $8.00 entry — Immerse yourself in the sights and scents of lavender while enjoying local vendors, live music, and specialty drinks.