Here’s a round-up of headlines from other news outlets around Southwest and Southside.
Politics:
More than 50 U.S. House members object to environmental permitting deal with Sen. Joe Manchin that would speed completion of the Mountain Valley Pipeline. — Virginia Mercury. (See background story on the political obstacles facing this deal).
Roanoke names first woman as fire marshal. — The Roanoke Times.
U.S. Sen. Mark Warner discusses changing formula so small communities can qualify for FEMA aid. — Bristol Herald Courier. (See background story on Hurley flooding and difficulties of qualifying for aid.)
Tazewell County supervisors to discuss adding places for electric car charging stations. — Bluefield Daily Telegraph.
State Sen. Steve Newman, R-Bedford County, to sponsor bill to untie Virginia from California emissions standards. — WSET-TV.
Economy:
Halifax supervisors approve 1,533-acre solar project. — South Boston News & Record.
Pittsylvania residents express concern about solar farms. — Chatham Star-Tribune.
Roanoke tech entrepreneur Bonz Hart dies. — The Roanoke Times.
Airbnb in Danville’s River District to feature 7-foot-tall red elephant sculpture. — Danville Register and Bee.
Danville Area Training Center names new assistant director. — Danville Register and Bee.
Education:
Chief operating officer at William & Mary hired by Virginia Tech. — Richmond Times-Dispatch.
Culture:
Blue Ridge Rock Festival is underway; will double population of Halifax County. — Halifax Gazette-Virginian and South Boston News & Record and WDBJ-TV.
Farmville town council discusses potential splashpad. — The Farmville Herald.