Coffee in hand, Blacksburg? We've got the latest town updates for you. Keep reading to stay in the loop. ☕️️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: Blues, Brews & BBQ.
Today's riddle: What has a neck but no head? 🤔 (Answer below!)
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1. Virginia Tech opens counter-drone research center (wsls.com) — Virginia Tech has opened a new Counter UAS Test and Research Center at Kentland Farms in Blacksburg, aiming to develop cutting-edge tools to detect and stop hostile drones. Federal lawmakers joined university leaders to highlight how the facility could shape modern warfare technology while attracting companies and high-tech jobs to Blacksburg and the broader Southwest Virginia region.
2. Virginia Tech cuts in-state medical school tuition by $15,000 (wfxrtv.com) — Virginia Tech, based in Blacksburg, is cutting in-state tuition at its Carilion School of Medicine by $15,000 a year starting this fall, thanks to new state funding. The move aims to make medical education more affordable for Virginians and could encourage more local students to train and eventually practice in communities across the region.
3. Visa uncertainty drives decline in Virginia Tech international students, dean says (wset.com) — Virginia Tech officials in Blacksburg say international graduate enrollment has dropped about 14% over two years, which they largely attribute to tightening U.S. visa rules and growing uncertainty for students. The graduate dean warns this trend affects campus diversity and the broader economy, while a local congressman urges boosting domestic grad enrollment as the university helps internationals navigate changing requirements.
4. Virginia Tech Men's Soccer Routs Kentucky 3-0 (techlunchpail.com) — Virginia Tech men's soccer, representing the hometown Hokies in Blacksburg, dominated Kentucky 3–0 with goals from Noe Uwimana, Parker Polk, and Yanis Belatrache. Strong defense, a 14–7 shot advantage, and Diego Dauzier's three saves sealed the shutout as Tech moved to 2–1 ahead of next week's ACC opener at NC State.
5. Virginia Gas Prices: Cheapest and most expensive places to fill up - August 28, 2026 (wsls.com) — Blacksburg drivers are paying about $3.84 for regular gas as Labor Day weekend approaches, slightly higher than Roanoke and close to Lynchburg. The statewide average is $3.88, with premium and diesel much higher, and AAA says this August could be the most expensive on record at the pump.
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Ok Blacksburg! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!
-- The Patch AM Team
P.S. The answer to today's riddle: A bottle (Thank you Netty W. for sending it in!)
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