News Briefs

A roundup of events in Southwest and Southside over the next week.

UVA Wise names executive director for new Institute of Applied Data Analytics. Craig County farmers market project wins state grant. ARC funding awarded to 2 Southwest Virginia recovery programs. South Boston business hub receives $1.3 million federal grant.

From elsewhere: Virginia teacher vacancies peak this year. Truist plans $750 million in annual expense reductions, undisclosed job cuts. As opioid deaths rise, Roanoke substance use program expands to other Virginia free clinics.

From elsewhere: Youngkin borrowed Altria’s jet; no one will say where he went. Blue Ridge Rock Festival rocked by severe weather, fierce criticism. Youngkin pushes for G.O.P. takeover this fall.

From elsewhere: Lawsuit seeks to block Virginia’s stricter hemp laws. Halifax County approves short-term rental ordinance. Ceasefire initiative launched to stop shootings in Roanoke.

From elsewhere: Roanoke mother says judge promised legal help in son’s murder case in exchange for sex. Hungry Mother State Park builds new mountain bike trail system. Danville council approves several more Airbnbs in city as permitted short-term rentals increase.

“Start-Up Slam” returns in Danville. Roanoke College names first director of marching and spirit bands. University of Lynchburg names new museum curator.

From elsewhere: Roanoke considers changing zoning ordinances to remove affordable housing barriers. VDOT sets hearing for Interstate 81 widening project in Roanoke Valley. Mecklenburg planners reject dual-use agrisolar projects.

A roundup of events in Southwest and Southside over the next week.

From elsewhere: Mountain Valley Pipeline protesters detained in Montgomery County. USDA proposes higher cap on coyote, fox take in Virginia. Invasive plants have spread all over Virginia; some groups say that needs to stop.