Here are some of the top headlines from other news outlets around Southwest and Southside:

Politics and government:

Bill by state Sen. David Suetterlein, R-Roanoke County, that would require Parole Board votes be made public passes first hurdle. — Richmond Times-Dispatch.

Study into re-opening Patrick County hospital receives committee support; Del. Wren Williams, R-Patrick County is sponsor. — The Roanoke Times.

House panel approves retroactive tax break for business; Del. Kathy Byron, R-Campbell County, is sponsor. — Richmond Times-Dispatch.

Legislation that would put Martinsville’s reversion to town status to referendum passes first hurdle. — Martinsville Bulletin.

Danville councilman Lee Vogler pushes megasite, clean energy before General Assembly. — Chatham Star-Tribune.

Pittsylvania County settles severence dispute with former administrator for $200,000. — Danville Register & Bee.

Covid:

Ballad declares staffing emergency due to covid strain. — Bristol Herald Courier.

Ballad so stretched for staff it will allow asymptomatic staff to work. — WCYB-TV.

Centra’s covid hospitalizations reach new high. — Lynchburg News & Advance.

Halifax schools have second-highest covid day this school year. — South Boston News & Record.

Mecklenburg County reverses course, allows parent opt-out on masks. — South Boston News & Record.

Nearly 80 in quarantine at Rockbridge County schools. — WSET-TV.

Middle school in Amherst County to go remote on Friday. — Lynchburg News & Advance.

Nearly 1,000 Ballad staff unvaxxed with deadline 15 days away. — WJHL-TV.

Other:

Salem likely to see electric scooters this spring. — The Roanoke Times.

Spring race at Martinsville Speedway adjusted to 400 laps. — WSLS-TV.

First round of musicians at Bristol Rhythm & Roots festival announced. —WCYB-TV.