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🌱 Patch AM: What exactly will Virginia Tech’s new counter-drone range do in Blacksburg?

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Monday August 31st Patch AM
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Good day Blacksburg! We're here again with what you need to know today. Grab a cup of coffee and read on. ☀️

In today's newsletter:

  • What exactly will Virginia Tech's new counter-drone range do in Blacksburg?
  • How will Pentagon fellows change daily life around Virginia Tech's campus?
  • How strong is Virginia Tech's rebuilt secondary heading into 2026?

Also on today's calendar: Blues, Brews & BBQ and 1 more event.

Today's riddle: What do you call a belt made of watches? 🤔 (Answer below!)

Weather forecast:

  • Monday: Fog will lift in the morning, with a high of 88 and low of 65 degrees. 🌶 Hot!
  • Tuesday: Mostly sunny, hot and humid, temps: high: 90, low: 66.
  • Wednesday: Partly sunny; hot and humid, with a high of 92 and low of 66 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. Virginia Tech opens counter-drone testing facility (fredericksburg.com) — Virginia Tech has officially opened a counter-drone testing and research facility in Blacksburg, bringing cutting-edge aviation security work directly into the community. The site will test a wide range of drones and interception systems, positioning the university and region as a key player in developing ways to detect and defeat rogue aircraft. Local researchers and partners will use the facility to tackle fast-evolving drone threats.
   

2. Virginia Tech selected to train future military leaders through new Pentagon fellowship (wset.com) — Blacksburg will soon host senior military officers as Virginia Tech launches a new Pentagon fellowship that embeds them on campus for 10 months. Fellows will work directly with researchers on emerging technologies like AI and drones, tailoring their studies to future leadership roles. Organizers hope the program grows to about 15 officers in Blacksburg each year, strengthening the town's ties to national security work.
   

3. Virginia Tech football 2026 preview: Cornerbacks and safeties (gobblercountry.com) — Virginia Tech fans in Blacksburg can look ahead to a 2026 season where a deep, experienced secondary may be a defensive strength again under returning coordinator Brent Pry. With standout corner Jaquez White and safety Quentin Reddish leading a well-stocked group, coaches see All-ACC potential and, importantly, enough depth to withstand injuries as the Hokies open at Lane Stadium soon.
   

4. Virginia Tech Musicologist Examines What Made Dolly Parton an Enduring Icon (theroanokestar.com) — A Virginia Tech musicologist in Blacksburg is helping put Dolly Parton's legacy into context for Appalachian communities still processing her death. Drawing on both scholarship and regional roots, he explains how Parton reshaped country music, empowered women in the industry, and gave rural Appalachians a rare sense of being seen, while her philanthropy broadened her impact far beyond entertainment.
   

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • McDonald's Restaurants posted a job opening for Crew Team Member in Blacksburg. Apply here.
  • Town of Blacksburg, VA posted a job opening for Maintenance Specialist II - Streets (Concrete Construction) in Blacksburg. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Blacksburg here.

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 waist of time (Thank you Kourtney Z. for sending it in!)
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!

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