This new House district puts Blacksburg and Radford in separate districts. It currently is represented by Jason Ballard, R-Giles County.

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

Politics:

Jody Pyles announces Republican challenge to Del. Jason Ballard, R-Giles County, in House District 42. — The Roanoke Times.

Virginia lawmakers consider restoring part of tax deduction for sports betting apps. — Virginia Mercury.

Youngkin to meet donors in Dallas, stirring talk of a presidential bid. — The Washington Post.

Youngkin says he will sign legislation ending higher insurance premiums for tobacco users. — Virginia Mercury.

Buckingham County electoral board won’t renew registrar’s contract. — The Farmville Herald.

Health care:

Death rate of American kids has surged, VCU researchers say. — Richmond Times-Dispatch.

Want more health care news? There’s no full-time health care reporter west of Richmond. We’d like to change that. You can help fund this position.

Economy:

Worries voiced over proposed travel center, truck stop in Montgomery County. — The Roanoke Times.

Appalachian Power announces power line upgrades between McDowell, Buchanan counties. — Bluefield Daily Telegraph.

Uber expands in-app audio recording safety feature to Roanoke. — WDBJ-TV.

Solar objections in Patrick County aired at Board of Supervisors meeting. — Martinsville Bulletin.

Education:

No response, no comment: Wise County School Board members mum on public comments about racism. — Kingsport Times News.

Virginia Tech hosts mock European Summit for local students. — WDBJ-TV.

Weather:

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