Good morning, Blacksburg.

On Friday, July 17, Virginia Tech football players built 40 wooden frame bed kits at Sleep in Heavenly Peace (a nonprofit serving local families) to help provide beds for children in need.

Quarterback Troy Huhn and defensive lineman Kemari Copeland joined the effort led by Paul Mele.

Mary Draper Ingles Festival returns later this week in Radford and nearby sites, running from Friday, July 24 to Sunday, July 26.

The event will mark America’s 250th founding with live historical interpretations (including a portrayal of Andrew Lewis), art shows, music, and family activities.

Today, the average price of regular gas is $3.96 per gallon while premium and diesel run at $4.84 and $5.21 respectively according to AAA amid tensions with Iran.

Locals in Blacksburg, Christiansburg, and Radford can check current pump prices for updates.

The 8th annual Race for ACCE 5K and Fun Run will be held on Saturday, Aug.

1 at the Blacksburg High Cross Country Course to raise funds for a program that gives local high school graduates free tuition at New River Community College and requires 80 community service hours.

Virginia Tech in Blacksburg is using a smaller committee to interview presidential candidates amid a competitive search of about 40 prospects.

Officials say the move is intended to speed up the process.

Governor Abigail Spanberger issued a flag order on Tuesday in memory of fallen Army officer Kendrick Lamont Key Jr. (who died while saving a fellow soldier in Morocco in May) with flags to be lowered at sunrise today and remain at half-staff until sunset.

Local researchers announced on Jul.

17 that a new vaccine could help prevent pancreatic cancer in high-risk patients & they believe its early development may improve treatment outcomes in Blacksburg.

Virginia Tech football head coach James Franklin addressed the media during the ACC Kickoff at the Hilton Charlotte Uptown on Thursday—discussing changes in Blacksburg and his defensive strategy.

He noted hiring coach Brent Pry as his defensive coordinator as unconventional and stressed lessons from Tech's past for a competitive season.

At Randolph Park on July 21, 2026, swimmers competed in the Southwest Virginia Swim League Championships.

Crosby Grigg of the BCC Barracudas won the 100 m freestyle, 100 m IM, and 50 m butterfly events; NRV (Ridgewood) Isabel Kohlhofer and Blacksburg Country Club’s Amelia White posted wins in age-group races.

Muck Around & Find Stout Tour

Aug 8-9 — The Milk Parlor — Cost info not provided — Enjoy an eclectic mix of folk-rock with Irish and Gypsy influences from The Muckers.