Good morning, Blacksburg.

An article published on September 30 reports on the Hands and Harvest Festival, a local event celebrating fall traditions in Blacksburg.

Details on the event's schedule and activities will be released as planning continues.

New River Community College is offering free GED preparation classes this fall through its Office of Transitional Programs in the New River Valley, with courses in Christiansburg, Dublin and online to help adults prepare for the GED exam and build skills for college and career.

The Board of Visitors approved a new budget that adds nearly $230 million to athletics over four years — including a $47 million increase this year — to help Virginia Tech compete better in sports.

The vote passed 13-1, and the plan raises the athletic fee by $100 while forming an oversight committee to track spending.

The local Office on Aging in Blacksburg is offering help with Medicare open enrollment to seniors by providing assistance with paperwork and appointment scheduling.

Residents can take advantage of this service — a key support during the enrollment period.

Federal workers in Southwest Virginia face layoff threats and may miss pay today if a government shutdown happens—nearly 30,000 workers in three districts are at risk.

The crisis grows as a mass resignation program ended, leaving over 100,000 federal employees while agencies brace for further cuts.

Salsa Under The Stars

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Beliveau Farm Winery — $12 at the door — Dance the night away with salsa lessons and vibrant Latin music.

Virginia Hollow Concert

6-9 p.m. — Rising Silo Brewery — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of live music with Virginia Hollow at a local brewery.