Good morning, Blacksburg.

The YMCA at Virginia Tech is hosting the 5th Annual Welcoming Week from Sept.

10 to 19 with free events like a Book Walk, outdoor concert, and Contra Dance to build local ties. Mayor Michael Sutphin will present a proclamation during Breakfast Around the World on Sept. 15 (emphasizing inclusiveness).

Cardinal News, a local nonprofit serving Southwest and Southside Virginia, was honored at LION Publishers' Independent News Sustainability Summit in San Diego Wednesday + built on last year's business of the year title as it marks its fifth anniversary.

Host Tad Dickens debuts Grooves & Grub Episode 1 with an exclusive interview featuring Erin Lunsford (performing “Rhinestones”) and previews local live shows including Blacksburg’s Cedric Watson et Bijou Creole at 6 p.m. today.

He also reviews a popular late-night pizza from Benny Marconi’s.

The sawmill in Blacksburg will reopen soon and is expected to create new jobs for local workers.

Local officials say the move will boost economic activity in the area.

Preston Park Elementary has opened its new building to offer teachers (and staff) and students modern classrooms and improved learning spaces that aim to enhance the educational experience this school year.

Restaurants and food trucks now must list nine major allergens—including sesame—for packaged and unpackaged foods per updated Virginia Food Regulations that took effect Thursday, Sept.

10. Establishments may display allergen details on menus or via QR codes to help ensure customer safety.

Gov. Spanberger has ordered flags to fly at half-staff on government buildings at sunrise today to honor 9/11 victims + first responders, and they will remain half-staff until sunset.

Today's Hometown Health Special highlights local health topics with NASCAR Foundation donating speedy bears for Carilion Children's patients, guidance on detecting suicide risk in men, gum disease concerns, concussion signs, and AI advice that may affect sleep apnea care.

Puppy Paws Yoga, a new studio in Blacksburg, will hold weekend sessions that pair a 45-minute yoga class with 30 minutes of puppy snuggles for $59 per session.

Yoga instructor Erica Calu says the event offers fun (with different puppy breeds each session) for dog and yoga lovers.