Tad Dickens

The chairman of the committee that hears most technology-related legislation in the House of Delegates said it was important to protect federal broadband funds, which Trump threatened if states make “onerous AI laws.”

Catch up on the week’s technology news.

Lower Manhattan's Hamburger America diner will feature the Texas Tavern staple this month, paired with a Southern Living article that features the Church Avenue eatery.

Other honorees at the Roanoke Blacksburg Technology Council's annual awards included co-winners of the entrepreneur of the year, award Narro Trucks Inc. and biotech innovator Webster Santos.

Also: In what is likely Virginia Tech President Tim Sands' final end-of-semester note to university community, he notes technology and research wins.

Comcast claims that Appalachian Power is not abiding by an FCC ruling about how much it can charge to replace power poles necessary for broadband deployment. The utility says that Comcast's cost proposal will hurt electric customers.

Local acts Hoppie Vaughan & the Ministers of Soul and JStop Latin Soul also will be featured, along with family-friendly movies on some nights.

The civil recall petition was filed in January.

Leaders said hosting the conference in Southwest Virginia reflects the region's growing presence in scientific research.

Plus: A Virginia Tech professor gets money to study virtual reality's influence on behavior.