Good morning, Blacksburg.

Virginia Tech police said VT Security Center representative Caleb Taylor suddenly died on Thursday — they offered condolences to his family and remembered his dedication during his service in the community.

Kroger is celebrating the start of summer by giving away 92,000 free pints of ice cream today at noon when shoppers can use a digital coupon to try flavors from its new Summer in a Pint collection+ the promotion marks the beginning of 92 summer days.

Local young performers shone on stage at a 30-year tradition event on June 19 in Blacksburg—organizers said the gathering highlights youth talent and community arts.

Local historians and teachers in Blacksburg marked 160 years since Booker T.

Washington was freed by hosting talks and exhibits that showed his journey from enslavement to a leader in education and civil rights—this event offered community members a chance to learn about his lasting impact.

The Montgomery County affiliate of Dolly Parton Imagination Library saw enrollment rise from 1,200 children younger than 5 to 1,928 as it mailed 24,188 free books to local toddlers—boosting early reading in the area.

Fundraising continues with a May 31 event that raised $6,000 and offers unsold butterfly paintings from local Blacksburg artists.

Local health officials offered water safety tips for the summer—urging residents to wear life jackets, supervise children, and check water conditions before swimming.

The guidelines aim to reduce accidents and help our community enjoy water activities safely.

Local researchers at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC say a healthy heart stays strong as it ages because its cells grow larger and closer together—improving the electrical current's effect but also raising sensitivity to extra damage like a mild heart attack or inflammation.

Hometown Eats features Treehouse Tavern as a local restaurant that is highlighted for its offerings—providing readers a look at what the tavern brings to the community.

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.

Virginia Hollow Live Performance

6-9 p.m. — Rising Silo Brewery — Free entry — Enjoy a night of music with Virginia Hollow at the brewery.