Map by Robert Lunsford.

Here’s a round-up of headlines from other news outlets around Southwest and Southside:

Politics:

Charlotte County Planning Commission advances 21,000-acre solar project. — South Boston News & Record. (Background stories: Is Virginia at a solar crossroads?; Virginia’s solar output more than doubles in one year; Some in Southside feel overwhelmed by solar.)

Halifax supervisors discuss how to spend $1 million donation from county’s first solar farm. — South Boston News & Record.

Recently terminated Montgomery County superintendent wins award as Superintendent of the Year. — The Roanoke Times.

Regional planning commission welcomes new executive director. — Lynchburg News and Advance.

Rep. Abagail Spanberger ranked as 5th most bipartisan member of the House; Rep. Bob Good ranked as the 5th least bipartisan. — Richmond Times-Dispatch.

Economy:

Virginia Tech Carlion School of Medicine to graduate 41. — The Roanoke Times.

Danville leaders say casino delay not surprising. — Danville Register and Bee.

Florida couple to open restaurant in downtown South Boston. — South Boston News & Record.

Bedford County farm and garden store changes its name to honor store mascot, a cat named George. — WSET-TV.

Alpha coal posts huge first quarter profit. — WJHL-TV.

Covid:

Covid cases rise 120% in Southwest Virginia. — Bristol Herald Courier.

Cases rising in more than half of Virginia’s health districts. — Virginia Mercury.

Culture:

Historic neighborhood in Danville now has 56 markers with QR codes to tell its history. — WSET-TV.