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Michael Sutphin

@michaelsutphin.bsky.social
130 followers 144 following 112 posts

Mayor of Blacksburg, Virginia. Views are my own.

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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
This afternoon, I attended the unveiling of a Hokie-themed LOVEworks sign on Henderson Lawn (pictured here with other Blacksburg and local nonprofit officials). The sign will remain in place for Friday’s Kickoff on College Avenue event. 📸: Emily Gibson
Blacksburg officials with a LOVE sign
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 02/08/2026
There was a great turnout at the Montgomery County RACE for ACCE 5K this morning. Thanks to everyone who helped raise money for the ACCE program, which provides local students with a debt-free education at New River Community College. I even managed to eke out a third-place medal in my age group!
Michael Sutphin with medalBronze sponsor lawn sign
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 19/07/2026
So glad I had the chance to welcome the Bike4Alz team to #Blacksburg tonight! These young men from Western Kentucky University are cycling more than 3,600 miles from San Francisco to Virginia Beach to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s research.
Mayor Sutphin with members of the Bike4Alz team at PK's in Blacksburg
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 13/07/2026
I had a great time giving remarks and cutting the ribbon for the new climbing boulders at #Blacksburg Municipal Park last week. This new space is designed with older children and adults in mind but, like all our parks, is for everyone.
Town officials at the climbing boulder ribbon cuttingMichael Sutphin speaks in front of the new climbing boulders
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 18/05/2026
I was proud to take part in the ribbon cutting for the Meadowbrook Greenway last week. This recent Radio IQ story takes a closer look at how we are continuging to grow our trail network and improve connections for cyclists and pedestrians across #Blacksburg.
wvtf.org
Blacksburg continues to expand biking trails despite uncertainty over future funding
The town of Blacksburg has spent the past few years building over 60 miles of biking trails, including a new section that opened this month.
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 08/05/2026
Thank you to @mayorsinnovation.bsky.social for featuring me in the first installment of stories highlighting first-term mayors from around the country. I appreciated the opportunity to talk about the opportunities and challenges facing #Blacksburg.
mayorsinnovation.org
The Balancing Act: Mayor Michael Sutphin’s Vision for a Changing Blacksburg
By: Mary Carr Lee, Mayors Innovation Project Blacksburg, Virginia, sits at a unique crossroads where a historic Appalachian town meets the fast growing influence of Virginia Tech. Guiding the communit...
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 04/05/2026
The Collegiate Times has filled newsstands in #Blacksburg since 1903, but this week’s edition will be its last in print. While the student paper will continue as a digital publication, I can’t help but feel a tinge of sadness for something that meant so much to me during my college years.
collegiatetimes.com
After 123 years, Collegiate Times leaves print behind
With this issue, Collegiate Times has published its final print edition after 123 years and over 3,000 weekly issues. The transition marks the end of an era for Virginia Tech's
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 24/04/2026
I’m thrilled to endorse @tomperriello.bsky.social!
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 24/04/2026
From the article: Blacksburg mayor Michael Sutphin also panned the plan in a public letter to the board. He wrote that the resolution and other moves by Virginia Tech appear to hint at plans to “substantially increase its freshman class size,” which would in turn boost demand for off-campus housing.
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 10/04/2026
Today marks my 100th day as mayor of #Blacksburg. You can find out what I’ve been doing these past few months in the latest issue of my newsletter: mailchi.mp/174f22b6a6d0...
Michael Sutphin for Mayor
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 12/03/2026
Last month, I issued a proclamation recognizing Black History Month, and this month I issued one recognizing Women’s History Month. I think it’s important that we take time to acknowledge the people and stories that have helped shape our community and our country. #Blacksburg
Mayor Sutphin presents a proclamation to students and faculty at Virginia Tech's Black Cultural CenterBlack History Month ProclamationWomen's History Month Proclamation
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 02/03/2026
I’ve just sent out the March edition of my newsletter, my first since taking office in January. It includes updates on our new council members, Brush Mountain Park, the CIP, and the General Assembly session. 📬 You can read the full newsletter here: mailchi.mp/490a06801254... #Blacksburg
Blacksburg Council Members at the General Assembly building in Richmond
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 24/02/2026
“We’re grateful to the New River Land Trust and the Virginia Outdoors Foundation for their leadership in permanently conserving this land while also ensuring public access..." #Blacksburg
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 16/02/2026
Curious how local government works? The #Blacksburg Citizens Institute is a free, 10-week, behind-the-scenes look at town services and decision-making. I attended years ago, and it made a lasting impact on me.
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 07/01/2026
I spoke with WDBJ7 today about priorities as I begin my term as mayor, especially housing and the relationship between the Town of #Blacksburg and Virginia Tech. These are big, complex issues, and I’m focused on moving them forward in a thoughtful way.
wdbj7.com
New mayor talks plans for Blacksburg as he begins new term
Michael Sutphin said he's aware of the biggest challenges Blacksburg faces and looks forward to creating solutions to those challenges in the future as mayor.
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 01/01/2026
Day one as mayor of #Blacksburg. This community means a great deal to me, and I take this responsibility seriously. I’m excited to get started and to hear from you along the way.
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 14/12/2025
I won the recount by 18 votes (yes, the same margin as the original tally). Thanks to everyone who spent more than 11 hours on Friday making sure we had an orderly and accurate recount. I'm looking forward to serving as Blacksburg’s mayor.
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Reposted by Michael Sutphin
Andrew Kulak @andrewkulak.com · 06/12/2025
It’s officially the holiday season here in Blacksburg, VA with @michaelsutphin.com and friends presiding over the annual tree lighting earlier 🎄
Blacksburg Vice Mayor Michael Sutphin, Santa, and the Hokie Bird get ready to throw the big switch to turn the holiday tree lights on The tree lit covered in snow from the storm earlier
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 13/11/2025
Now that the provisional ballots have been counted, I am pleased to share that I have won the race for #Blacksburg mayor by just 18 votes. Thank you to everyone who voted, volunteered, donated, and believed in this campaign.
Michael Sutphin for Mayor: Michael Sutphin has been elected Blacksburg's next mayor in the 2025 election.
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 03/11/2025
Tomorrow’s the big day! It’s been a long and rewarding campaign, and I’m so grateful for everyone who’s supported me along the way. Now it all comes down to Election Day—please vote tomorrow if you haven’t already! 💙 mailchi.mp/ea30ce03f1f3...
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 01/11/2025
A huge thank you to the 1,717 voters who come to the #Blacksburg Community Center last Saturday and today for early voting. It’s great to see so many people engaged in the democratic process.
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 31/10/2025
My October newsletter is out! 🎃 From campaign updates to news on upcoming Town Council actions, the Virginia Municipal League conference, and the federal shutdown, there’s a lot to cover this month in #Blacksburg. Read the full update here 👉 mailchi.mp/3f8124a3c980...
Michael Sutphin for Mayor - Newsletter - October 2025
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 28/10/2025
Huge shout out to @abigailspanberger.com for visiting #Blacksburg again during the final stretch before Election Day. It was great to see so many #VirginiaTech students and community members energized about this election and making their voices heard at the polls.
Michael Sutphin and Abigail SpanbergerMichael Sutphin and Abigail SpanbergerBlacksburg Town Council members at the Spanberger rally
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 27/10/2025
Appreciate the Collegiate Times taking the time to cover the race for #Blacksburg mayor.
collegiatetimes.com
The race for Blacksburg mayor
On Tuesday, Nov. 4, Blacksburg voters will choose between Blacksburg Bagels owner Pete Macedo and Blacksburg Vice Mayor in the race to elect the town’s next mayor, as retiring eight-year
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 24/10/2025
Housing is one of the biggest challenges in #Blacksburg. It’s also the issue I hear about most as I’m out talking with voters.
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 23/10/2025
I’m running for mayor because I believe our community deserves experienced leadership that’s ready to go to work on day one. After more than 13 years serving on Town Council, including two terms as vice mayor, I know what it takes to tackle our biggest challenges and keep #Blacksburg moving forward.
Vote for Blacksburg's next mayor: Michael Sutphin. Proven leadership. experience that matters. Election Date: November 4. Paid for by Michael Sutphin for Mayor.
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 17/10/2025
“There’s a shortage of available housing in the town of Blacksburg, and this project and projects like it help meet some of those needs,” said Vice Mayor Michael Sutphin.
wdbj7.com
Blacksburg Town Council approves project turning former hotel property into apartments
Housing has continued to be a struggle for Blacksburg - But now, there’s some hope.
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 08/10/2025
Four weeks to go! Early voting is underway — let’s keep Blacksburg moving forward together. 🗳️ #Blacksburg #NRV #Election2025
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 01/10/2025
📢 I’m thrilled to share that @lgbtqvictoryfund.bsky.social has endorsed my campaign for mayor of #Blacksburg! Victory Fund supports candidates who are out members of the LGBTQ+ community, committed to equality, and running campaigns with a clear path to victory.
Michael David Sutphin (he/him) - LGBTQ Victory Fund Endorsed Candidate, 2025, for Mayor of Blacksburg, Virginia
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 30/09/2025
My September newsletter is out! From new projects like the downtown retail incubator and Eheart Street cycle track, to upcoming development proposals and community events, there’s a lot happening in #Blacksburg. Read the full update here 👉 mailchi.mp/ab12fc9680b5...
Michael Sutphin for Mayor - Newsletter - September 2025
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 25/09/2025
📣 Hey, #Blacksburg. This Saturday, September 27, I’ll be at “Democracy is on the Ballot: Issues and Concerns,” hosted by the Defending Democracy team at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation (1301 Gladewood Drive, Blacksburg).
Stop by Michael's campaign booth at "Democracy is on the Ballot," on Saturday, September 27 from 10 a.m. to noon at the UU Congregation (1301 Gladewood Drive, Blacksburg, VA). Authorized by Michael Sutphin for Mayor.
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 19/09/2025
Early voting starts today in Virginia! Make a plan to vote. 🗳️
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 18/09/2025
Yesterday, I gave some brief remarks on behalf of the town at the grand re-opening of the Kroger on South Main Street in #Blacksburg. Kroger has invested $2.7 million in remodeling the store. At the event, Kroger presented a check to Feeding Southwest Virginia and the HokieBird made an appearance!
Michael speaking at the Kroger Grand Re-opening CeremonyMichael with the HokieBirdRibbon cutting in the produce section
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Reposted by Michael Sutphin
National Voter Registration Day @natlvoterregday.bsky.social · 16/09/2025
It’s #NationalVoterRegistrationDay! If you recently moved, changed your name, became a citizen, or haven't already registered to vote, today is a GREAT day to get #VoteReady. Register to vote/check your #VoterRegistration status at bit.ly/2025nvrdreg
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 16/09/2025
I’m proud to share that I’ve been named a 2025 Gun Sense Candidate by @momsdemand.bsky.social. This distinction signals my commitment to advocating for common-sense gun safety and preventing gun violence in our community.
Moms Demand Action - 2025 Gun Sense Candidate
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 12/09/2025
As I’m campaigning for mayor, I’m often asked, “What’s your platform?” The truth is, there isn’t a single issue that defines our town’s future. #Blacksburg deserves a comprehensive vision that addresses our community’s many needs and opportunities. Learn more at www.michaelsutphin.com.
A Vision for Blacksburg - Investing in Our Community, Expanding Opportunities, Building a Sustainable Future - Michael Sutphin for MayorInvesting in our community - learn more at www.michaelsutphin.comExpanding opportunities - learn more at www.michaelsutphin.comBuilding a sustainable future - learn more at www.michaelsutphin.com
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 31/08/2025
The August issue of my newsletter is out! This month, I share highlights from the #Blacksburg candidate forums, welcome back Virginia Tech and Montgomery County students, and provide updates on early voting, upcoming public hearings, and my campaign for mayor. Take a look: mailchi.mp/fa61f47c4530...
Michael Sutphin for Mayor - Newsletter - August 2025
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 30/08/2025
Just got back from an energizing evening at Gobblerfest! It was great to connect with both new and returning #VirginiaTech students, as well as community members, to talk about my campaign and priorities for #Blacksburg.
Lauren Colliver, Michael Sutphin, and Susan AndersonMichael Sutphin by a campaign banner
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 22/08/2025
Last night, I had the opportunity to take part in the #Blacksburg Mayoral Candidate Forum hosted by the local chapters of the NAACP and League of Women Voters. If you missed it, you can watch the full forum here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=T-F6...
Michael Sutphin at the candidate forum
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 20/08/2025
Last week, the #Blacksburg Town Council unanimously passed a resolution calling for campaign finance reform to limit the influence of unlimited corporate spending in elections. You can read the full resolution here: blacksburg.granicus.com/MetaViewer.p...
Blacksburg Town Council resolution on campaign finance reform (full text available in link)Blacksburg Town Council resolution on campaign finance reform (full text available in link)Blacksburg Town Council resolution on campaign finance reform (full text available in link)
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 16/08/2025
Some things come full circle! Back in 2009, I took a turn in the dunking booth during Steppin’ Out while running for Town Council. Fast forward to today, and I was back in the tank at Touch-a-Truck NRV in Christiansburg (pictured here).
Michael in the dunk tankMichael in the dunk tankMichael in the dunk tank
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 05/08/2025
📢 Mark your calendars! The Blacksburg Mayor Candidate Forum will be on Thursday, August 21, at 6:30 p.m. at the Blacksburg Municipal Building. You’ll have an opportunity to hear from my opponent and me about the issues facing our town.
NAACP/League of Women Voters - 2025 Candidate Forums - Thursdays from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 03/08/2025
The Montgomery County RACE for ACCE 5K was a big success in #Blacksburg this morning! Somehow, I even managed to snag second place in my division (men’s 40-44), but I’m pretty sure that’s more a reflection of my age than my speed.
Michael Sutphin with a race medalMichael Sutphin, Blacksburg Vice Mayor - Bronze Sponsor
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 02/08/2025
The rain didn’t stop Council Member Susan Anderson and I from volunteering at the Downtown Blacksburg, Inc. T-shirt booth this afternoon. Fingers crossed for better weather at Steppin’ Out tomorrow! #Blacksburg
Michael Sutphin and Susan Anderson at the T-shirt booth
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 31/07/2025
The July issue of my newsletter is out! This month, I highlight Steppin’ Out, the Race for ACCE, the downtown façade grant program, and an update on my #Blacksburg mayoral campaign—including how to get a yard sign. 📬 Take a look: mailchi.mp/dd3bf9a8838d...
Michael Sutphin for Mayor - Newsletter - July 2025
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 31/07/2025
It was an honor to help welcome Rustic Roots Olive Oils to downtown #Blacksburg at their ribbon cutting yesterday. This new shop is a fantastic addition to our local business community — and just in time for Steppin’ Out this weekend! (Photos courtesy of the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce)
Rustic Roots Olive Oils ribbon cuttingMichael speaking at the Rustic Roots ribbon cutting
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 31/07/2025
Such terrible news coming out of Danville today. My thoughts are with Councilman Vogler and the Danville community.
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 27/07/2025
Hard to believe we’re just 100 days away from Election Day. I’m running for mayor because I care deeply about #Blacksburg and have the experience needed to help move it in the right direction. If you would like to get involved, visit www.michaelsutphin.com to learn more.
100 days until Election Day
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 24/07/2025
One thing I’ve learned during my time on the #Blacksburg Town Council is that the town’s success is tied to the strength of our region. Whether we’re talking about housing, transportation, or economic development, we’re better off when we work together across the #NRV.
Michael Sutphin for Mayor - Experience That Matters. More than 10 years total on the New River Valley MPO. Member, Greater Montgomery Liaison Group. Past board member, New River Valley Regional Commission. Working with leaders from Blacksburg, Christiansburg, Montgomery County, Radford, and Virginia Tech. Paid for by Michael Sutphin for Mayor.
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Michael Sutphin @michaelsutphin.bsky.social · 19/07/2025
New yard signs are on the way! 🪧 Here's a peek behind the scenes at the print shop. Want one for your yard in #Blacksburg? Sign up here: forms.gle/oULyR1XWsQVs...
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