Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 26th of September.
Good morning, Blacksburg.
📰 Economy
Rising diesel costs have pushed grocery prices higher, with USDA data showing nearly a 3% overall increase and beef up over 9%—a trend that local families are feeling every time they shop.
The cost increase is adding pressure to everyday budgets.
🎓 Education
Virginia Tech Dining Services launched new meal plans this fall based on two years of research, though many students report long lines and small portions at dining centers (Owens Food Court and D2 at Dietrick Hall).
Officials said they will use feedback to refine the system for both freshmen and upper-year students.
🌲 Environment
Blacksburg will complete an 867 kW solar system at its Transit facility on Commerce Drive by year’s end.
The project — set up with a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement — will save $2.2 million in costs while powering about 90% of the facility’s operations.
🏛️ Government
Town of Blacksburg is evaluating improvements at Winfrey Fields (Winfrey/Kipps) and Old Blacksburg High School (OBHS) as part of a 2027 Capital Improvement Program to boost community recreation and sports.
Residents can share input through budget exercises and surveys until Friday, Oct. 9.
🏥 Health
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services awarded Biotherapeutics, Inc. a $500,000 grant on Sept.
25 to support Alzheimer’s treatment research in Blacksburg (the funding is expected to drive new therapy development).
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services awarded a $592,397 grant to Edward Via Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine on September 25 for research into back pain injury mechanisms, supporting the school’s role in healthcare innovation in Blacksburg.
Congressman Morgan Griffith praised the grant for advancing chronic pain research.
A statewide study revealed that more than half of households in Southwest Virginia experienced food insecurity between May 2025 and May 2026, with families facing even higher rates.
Feeding Southwest Virginia held a conference on Friday in Roanoke and announced partner agencies would no longer pay fees.
Virginia Tech’s wellness team strengthened drug safety messaging after two student deaths at Ole Miss were reported Monday – the team will hold a Narcan training session on Oct.
7 at the Drill Field from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with a recovery panel at 5:30 p.m. in Burruss Hall.
🏈 Sports
Virginia Tech and Boston College clash today at Alumni Stadium for their ACC opener.
The Hokies (3-0) are 14.5-point favorites facing a resilient Eagles team while heavy rain is forecast, with kickoff at noon ET.
Highlights from Week 5 football include matchups like Friendship Collegiate vs. Roanoke Catholic and a featured contest between Jefferson Forest and Liberty Christian.
The summary covers games played last week as teams compete in the local football season.
🎉 Blacksburg Events
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