Good morning, Blacksburg.

God's Pit Crew (a local group) will host a food giveaway for Blacksburg residents later this week.

Details on timing and the venue will be shared as the event approaches.

Gas prices in Virginia remain high today as the national average for regular gasoline is $4.43 while Blacksburg averages $4.17, according to AAA.

Prices have risen steadily since last year.

Eastern Montgomery Elementary launched its reading garden this September, where students can read in hammocks outside the classroom (funded by a local grant to reduce test anxiety).

Teacher Leslie Lawson hopes the outdoor space builds a lasting love of reading.

Margaret Beeks Elementary School cut chronic absenteeism from 12.6% to 6.9% and improved reading scores using its van (Bear Force One) to pick up students when families lacked transportation over two years.

Two New River Valley school divisions received state grant funding to buy and upgrade security systems + the funding will help improve campus safety measures.

Blacksburg Elementary School's new van initiative has reduced chronic absenteeism by half, school officials said, after it began providing transportation for students lacking regular options.

Hometown Eats spotlights North Star Restaurant in its latest feature published Sep.

17—following reviews of local eateries that highlight Blacksburg’s vibrant dining scene. The review details the restaurant’s menu and community appeal.

The Hometown Sports Huddle recapped that ExtraFFE Football Team of the Week was honored and a college athlete is set to shine on a major stage.

It also noted that Radford’s new eSports facility has drawn keen interest from college students.