Good morning, Blacksburg.

FEDUP celebrated 20 years of healing as community members joined a special ceremony to honor decades of service + recognize the organization’s efforts in supporting local well-being.

Earlier this spring, the 50th International Café Hour celebrated global culture as student groups hosted events at Deet’s Place in Dietrick Hall — the Taiwanese Student Association led a Lunar New Year celebration with traditional dishes and calligraphy activities — drawing hundreds of students and community members.

Virginia Tech joined an international study that tracked 12,000 marine animals across over 100 species to map where whales, sharks, and turtles need more protection—showing that 60% of the animals’ important habitats lie outside current protected zones and that strategies like modifying fishing gear and slowing ships will be needed. The study was published today in the journal Science and highlights the importance of safe marine corridors along our coastline.

A music festival held on June 6 raised money for cancer research and drew community support in Blacksburg—organizers said the funds will help support ongoing research efforts.

Today, the Compress & Shock Foundation holds its 9th annual CPR and AED training at the Christiansburg Recreation Center so locals can learn life-saving skills.

Taylor Monk, a cardiac arrest survivor who nearly died playing basketball, shared his story to stress the need for fast CPR and AED use—local officials hope the event helps more residents act quickly in emergencies.

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.

Salsa Under The Stars

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Beliveau Farm Winery — $12 per person — Dance the night away with a salsa lesson and vibrant music under the stars.