Good morning, Blacksburg.

FloydFest kicked off in the rain yesterday in Blacksburg—drawing local music fans despite wet weather.

Organizers say the event will feature multiple local bands and art vendors.

Blacksburg has seen nearly 6 inches of rain this month, yet remains 3 inches below average.

Widespread, repeated rainfall is needed to ease long-term drought conditions as reservoirs remain well below full — experts say even rain over weeks will help fill water supplies.

Blacksburg’s Virginia Tech Montgomery Executive Airport hosted one of the first operational flights of a new electric takeoff and landing airplane on July 10.

The test flight showed progress in cleaner, sustainable aviation.

Virginia’s tax-free weekend runs from Friday, Aug.

7 at 12:01 a.m. until Sunday, Aug. 9 at 11:59 p.m. and lets residents save on select school supplies, clothing, hurricane preparedness items (like portable generators) and Energy Star products.

Officials lowered flags yesterday at civic buildings to honor a Virginia soldier found dead in Africa — the tribute recognizes his service and brings the community together in remembrance.

UVA Health is now offering a first-in-Virginia treatment for a rare eye cancer to improve care for patients.

The breakthrough option is available at UVA Health today in Blacksburg.

LewisGale Hospital Montgomery welcomed new CEO Michael Ehrat, who focused on strengthening care access in the New River Valley; he said he will work with local groups—like Radford University—to enhance rural health services.

Health officials report 79 cyclosporiasis cases in Virginia while the CDC, FDA and state health authorities continue investigating a multistate Cyclospora outbreak linked to shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms de Mexico, which voluntarily recalled the produce distributed between June 29 and July 16.

Virginia Tech researchers found that obesity is linked to faster brain aging (and memory loss) in a study published yesterday in Blacksburg.

The findings may guide future local health advice as scientists explore treatment options further.

Dental offices in Blacksburg are facing longer wait times as Virginia deals with a shortage of dental hygienists, according to recent reports.

Patients should plan ahead when scheduling appointments.

Two local commercial properties—Shawnee Mini Mart at 7120 Roanoke Road and Elliston Food Mart at 9311 Roanoke Road—will be offered at a public auction on August 14 at noon in Shawsville; bidders must bring a 10% deposit and complete closing within 30 days as the properties are sold as is.

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.