Here are some of the top headlines from other news outlets around Southwest and Southside:
Politics and government:
Warner, Spanberger lead push to make Virginia a center for semi-conductor manufacturing. — Richmond Times-Dispatch.
South Boston Library holds “read-in” of banned books. — South Boston News & Record.
Controversy unfolds at Blacksburg High School over “Pray for Peace” T-shirts worn by one sports team. — WSLS-TV.
Franklin County won’t change tax rates but funding gap remains. — The Roanoke Times.
Economy:
Benchmark Community Bank, based in Kenbridge, will buy First Community Bank’s branch in Emporia. — Farmville Herald.
Roads to solar farm under construction in Halifax County take a beating from trucks. — South Boston News & Record.
More on Virginia Western’s new biotechnical degree. — The Roanoke Times.
Covid:
Galax ranked first among high-poverty counties for covid death rate. — Virginia Mercury.
Culture:
Abingdon’s $12 million sports complex opens Saturday. — Bristol Herald Courier.
Contract awarded to begin restoration of trail in Pittsylvania County. — Chatham Star-Tribune.
Norfolk Southern will donate N&W archives to Richmond museum. — WDBJ-TV.