Good morning, Blacksburg.

On October 19th, the Blacksburg Community Band will perform its annual Fall Concert at 3 p.m. at the High School Auditorium with free admission and a reception afterwards, and will introduce new director James Bean from the Highty-Tighties with longtime associate director Dean Chiapetto — the event welcomes all residents.

After an explosion on October 8th damaged Forest Level Baptist Church, the church is beginning repairs today—work that will restore safety and structure.

Local business owner Bruce Bryan launched his second book—Turning Tables—which details lessons he learned while working in food service and hospitality.

He says the book shares advice on putting customers first and draws on his real-world experience as a server and bartender.

Duck Donuts has conjured up its popular Spooky Dozen with a chewy gummy worm topping and a swirl of buttercream, and the treats will be available through Nov.

2—featuring Halloween-themed flavors like Dirt & Worms, Halloween Haunting, Werewolf and Graveyard.

Virginia Zoo welcomed three Asian small-clawed otter pups on Aug.

25, born to parents Elbe and Jilin as part of a breeding program to preserve the species—zoo staff performed an initial vet exam and now monitor the newborns as they reach early milestones while planning to introduce them to the outdoor habitat in about 14 to 16 weeks.

The government shutdown is now in its second week and has frozen federal approvals, delaying the release of three new wines at Beliveau Farm Winery—this may cost local wineries lost sales during fall festivals and holiday prep.

The TTB is accepting online submissions but will not process them until funding is restored.

Community health centers in rural Virginia face immediate risks as key federal funding expired on Sept.

30 and telehealth services for Medicare patients are now halted—over 400,000 residents rely on these centers and local lawmakers are pushing for stable, long-term funding. Lawmakers and healthcare leaders are urging Congress to move beyond temporary fixes to secure these vital services.

A report from Oct. 8 said that Clifton Town Center is being built as a new mixed-use facility with retail and community spaces for our area—local officials provided details on the design and schedule for the project.

Additional updates on construction progress are expected in the coming months.

Virginia Tech is exploring a sale of Hotel Roanoke to raise funds for campus improvements — the university plans to review offers and set next steps soon — and has not yet made a final decision.

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.

Virginia Tech Hokies vs. Louisville Cardinals Football

3:00 – 4:30 p.m. — Lane Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Witness the thrilling college football clash as the Hokies take on the Cardinals.