Plus: A new leader takes the helm of the Virginia Early Childhood Foundation and the University of Lynchburg plans for a days-long power outage.
Bristol/Southwest Zone
Bristol, Abingdon, all of far Southwest
Coalfields Expressway gets another $10 million for widening work
The timeline to bid and complete the project is about three years. It will focus on the section of road that connects Buchanan County to eastern Kentucky.
Emory & Henry no longer on probation with accreditor
The university was put on probation in June 2025 after several years of monitoring over financial concerns.
Special prosecutor named in investigation of Buchanan County elected official
The assistant commonwealth’s attorney from Bland County who is handling the case said he doesn’t yet know the target of the investigation.
Three Democrats vie for nomination to challenge Griffith in the 9th District
The 9th District is Virginia’s most Republican congressional district, but that hasn’t stopped three Democrats from wanting the party’s nomination to challenge GOP incumbent Morgan Griffith.
Cardinal Commerce Notes: Here’s how to share your thoughts on Old Dominion Power’s rate hike request
Also: Orvis will stay in Roanoke, job postings must include pay ranges starting in July, Virginia wants your input on its energy plan, and the state asks farmers to remain vigilant against the New World screwworm.
Southwest Virginia Field Notes: Bristol’s Hard Rock Casino had a record-breaking May
Plus: Appalachian Power installs new poles and equipment in Smyth County, and a raffle with $250,000 worth of prizes will benefit the country music museum.
A rural hospital paid for the children of 2 top executives to become doctors. It won’t say how many other people have gotten similar help.
Buchanan General Hospital’s tuition assistance program is designed to recruit clinicians to work in its rural community. The hospital declined to disclose information about other program recipients or its conflict of interest policy.
The Pulse: Missions of Mercy free dental clinic coming to Wytheville this month
Plus: Ballad Health expands orthopedic services and the Appalachian College of Pharmacy names a new rural health leader.
Southwest Virginia Field Notes: Years-long I-81 widening project is finally done
Plus: a skate park opens in Big Stone Gap, and the Birthplace of Country Music Museum offers free tours for veterans.


