🌱 VT Hosting 97th Future Farmers Of America + VT Doctor Shares Tips

Hi all. It's me, Michelle Paul, your host of the Patch newsletter. Follow along to find out the most important things going on around town.

But first, your local weather:

• Monday: Humid with a heavy t-storm. High: 83 Low: 60.
• Tuesday: Cloudy, a shower; not as warm. High: 76 Low: 60.

Here are the top three stories today in Blacksburg:

1. Virginia Tech will be hosting the 97th annual Future Farmers of America (FFA) State Convention, where high school students have the opportunity to showcase their skills through various competitions. National FFA President Andrew Seibel expressed the hope that students will feel empowered to make a difference in their communities, emphasizing the value of their contributions and the potential for positive change. The National FFA Convention is scheduled for November. (WDBJ 7)
2. As summer approaches and outdoor activities become more common, it's crucial to protect your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays. Dermatologist Dr. Mariana Phillips of the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine and extension specialist Carlin Rafe provide expert tips, emphasizing the importance of sun safety measures such as applying sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure, wearing protective clothing and hats, and taking breaks in the shade during peak hours from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Additionally, they recommend reapplying sunscreen every two hours, especially after water immersion or sweating. (WFXR)
3. Virginia Tech has been awarded a GO Virginia Grant of $500,000, along with $251,300 in matching non-state funding, for their Automated-Connected-Electrified (ACE) coalition. Led by Virginia Tech, the coalition aims to advance the manufacturing, transportation, and autonomous vehicles sector in Southwest Virginia by enhancing the talent pipeline for training and retaining workers. The ACE partnership includes companies like Torc Robotics and Volvo, along with community leaders and higher education partners, to address workforce gaps and provide hands-on training in smart technology for the manufacturing industry. (New River Valley)

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Today and tomorrow in Blacksburg:

Monday, June 26

• Fundamentals Of Argentine Tango "The Cross" At Open Space Studios (7:15 PM)

Tuesday, June 27

• Town Council Meeting At Blacksburg Municipal Building (6:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• A collaborative effort between Virginia Tech and Carilion Clinic has led to the development of a Lymphedema Wearable Device, designed to provide relief to patients living with lymphedema. This innovative device offers patients an at-home treatment option that focuses on enhancing flexibility and improving their overall quality of life. (Virginia Tech via Facebook)
• Virginia Tech Police finished a Summer Faculty Staff RAD for WOMEN Class and registration is now open for the upcoming FALL 2023 RAD classes here. (Virginia Tech Police via Facebook)
• Montgomery County Public Schools is seeking a lunch/recess aide to join Auburn Elementary School's team. The position entails assisting with lunchtime activities and supervising students during recess. Interested individuals can apply here. (Montgomery County Public Schools in Virginia via Facebook)

You're officially in the loop for today. I'll see you soon!

— Michelle Paul

About me: Michelle Paul is a Utah-based writer and photographer with a professional background in content management and registered nursing. When not working on projects ranging from photo editing to copywriting, they enjoy traveling, video games, and expanding their skills.