News Briefs

From elsewhere: Virginia’s two largest craft brewers, Hardywood and Starr Hill, are merging. Feds accept grid operator’s plan to address power shortfall from data centers. Korn Ferry Tour Championship tees off in Richmond.

From elsewhere: Proposed 168-home development draws mixed reactions from Bedford County neighbors. Virginia Board of Education reinstates adult education advisory committee after three years. TowneBank to acquire N.C. bank for $154 million.

From elsewhere: EPA to give $90 million for clean water and restoration projects in Chesapeake Bay watershed, 28 in Virginia. Communities find novel ways to get rid of gas-powered leaf blowers. Back in the exam room, Ralph Northam reflects on life after Richmond.

From elsewhere: First bill of 2027 aims to protect people with autism, other disabilities. Rare bee rediscovered in Virginia after more than a century. A new report says Norfolk Naval Shipyard has to juggle aging infrastructure and massive upgrades.

From elsewhere: Kiggans faces questions over financial industry money and consumer protection votes. Albemarle registrar sends out mail-in ballots without required postage. Local food aid program loses federal funding, but maintains state support.

From elsewhere: Virginia Democrats warn more healthcare strains loom after November election. Franklin County administrator to step down. Symposium helps descendants of enslaved people connect with family history.

From elsewhere: Charlottesville area to get its first Publix. Christian groups allege Virginia State University bias in new lawsuit. Sentara Williamsburg receives provisional Level 3 trauma center designation.

From elsewhere: Virginia DMV wait times plummet to record lows after major reforms. University of Richmond gets $150 million gift, believed to be most ever for a Virginia college. Virginia Tech increasing football and basketball ticket prices to fund “top-10 mentality.”

From elsewhere: Virginia health committee considers mandating licensed nurses in every school. After Obama-era Chesapeake Bay executive order rescinded, environmental groups brace for fallout. As farmers face mounting financial pressures, advocates want to keep farmland away from developers — and data centers.

From elsewhere: Henrico-based Owens & Minor to close production facility, cut 400 jobs. Federal judge strikes down SNAP deadline that put Virginia at risk of added costs. Prince William County moves to end by-right data centers.