Good morning, Blacksburg.

Former chief operating officer Jennifer Ann Adams was sentenced to 3 years in prison—she admitted failing to report fraud at five Western Virginia pain clinics that issued illegal prescriptions and inflated bills while the government seeks $4.9 million in restitution.

On Sunday, during an Allegiant flight from Florida to Roanoke-Blacksburg, a passenger named Taj Taylor claimed his laptop was a bomb—prompting the pilot to return the plane to the airport where officers took him into custody and the FBI began an investigation.

Appalachian Power warned customers to be alert for utility-related scams during hot weather—scammers may call or visit to demand immediate payment and use threatening tactics, so residents should verify any contact using the number on their bill.

The New River Valley Garden Tour will let local residents view unique home gardens and landscape designs—organizers plan to share more details on routes and times soon.

The Mary Draper Ingles Festival will take place July 25-27 in Radford City and Pulaski County and will feature music, historic interpretation, art exhibits, tours, and food vendors to mark the 270th anniversary of her capture and escape near Blacksburg.

Live performances by groups like Kinnfolk and reenactments will further highlight the region's colonial heritage.

Montgomery County Public Schools began a summer feeding program on Monday, July 7 and will offer free meal kits on July 14, 21, and 28 at Shawsville Middle School, Belview Elementary School, and Belmont Christian Church—each kit supplies food for seven breakfasts and lunches for children. Families can pick up the kits from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. every Monday in July.

Virginia Tech expert Craig Ramseyer from the Department of Geography warns that the remnants of Tropical Storm Chantal are causing heavy rains and flooding in our region—flash flooding may quickly become dangerous—and he urges residents to avoid floodwaters and have a safety plan.

Verizon Wireless plans to install wireless antennas on a 39.5-foot building near 285 Ag-Quad Lane in Blacksburg.

The public can submit comments on the proposal’s potential impact on historic properties within 30 days.

Virginia Hollow Live Performance

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

Jstop Latin Soul Performance

6 PM – 12 AM — Henderson Lawn — Free admission — Experience the vibrant sound of Jstop Latin Soul blending Afro-Cuban rhythms with jazz improvisation.

Virginia Hollow at Steppin' Out 2025

3-4 p.m. — Acoustic Stage — Free entry — Enjoy live music from Virginia Hollow at this vibrant community event.