Cardinal News: Then & Now takes a look back at the stories we brought you over the last 12 months. Through the end of the year, we’re sharing updates on some of the people and issues that made news in 2024. This installment: a collection of education and technology updates.
Tad Dickens
Tad Dickens is technology reporter for Cardinal News. He previously worked for the Bristol Herald Courier and The Roanoke Times and likes to bang on his drums when he can. Reach at tad@cardinalnews.org or 540 293-6018.
Posted inPolitics
As drone sightings multiply, a Virginia Tech team is working on better ways to detect and identify the unmanned fliers
People at the Langley Air Force Base area in Hampton Roads saw drone activity there last year, but the instruments set up to detect them did not, a Virginia Tech drone expert said. Researchers want to change that.
Posted inEconomy
Appomattox County strikes deal for data center
Construction will begin in fall 2025 on a 452-acre parcel of the county’s industrial park.
Posted inCulture
Roanoke railroad whistle Old Gabriel still silent, but protected
Rail enthusiasts rescued the relic after Norfolk Southern moved out of the shops where it had sounded the beginning and end of the workday, and lunchtime, for decades.
Posted inEconomy
Virginia Tech drone sub fleet will search for microplastics in Chesapeake Bay
A group from the university’s Center for Marine Autonomy and Robotics is testing its autonomous underwater vehicle at Claytor Lake.
Posted inEconomy
Virginia Tech team receives $11 million to lead carbon storage project
Project Cardinal will test underground rocks at Roanoke Cement Co. in Botetourt County, to see if they can safely retain the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide.
Posted inEconomy
AI conference in Roanoke to feature national, state and local speakers
Disrupt Up, a national conference on emerging technology, will focus on AI, with speakers including AI leaders Fredric Bertley and Virginia Del. Michelle Maldonado.
Posted inPolitics
Trump store owner loses in Boones Mill mayoral bid
Incumbent Victor Conner received 87 percent of the 124 votes cast.
Posted inCulture
Black Crowes to headline FloydFest 2025
Mt. Joy, JJ Grey & Mofro, The California Honeydrops and Larkin Poe are among other bands announced on Friday for FloydFest 25~Aurora.
Posted inEconomy
Carroll and Rockbridge counties receive millions in federal internet money
Carroll County, which will receive $5 million, is the state’s least connected county, according to the Virginia Broadband Advisory Council.