Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 30th of October.
Good morning, Blacksburg.
Starting November 1, the Saturday hours for the Blacksburg Farmers Market will change to 9am—2pm until the end of December while the Wednesday market will run from 2pm—6pm until November 26.
The Run for Donuts 5k is a charity race planned to benefit Ronald McDonald House — local runners will have a chance to support families in need.
Organizers will announce more details on the route and timing as the event nears.
On Monday, the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce joined with Feeding Southwest Virginia for a food drive in the New River Valley that will run until November 7 to aid roughly 5,000 SNAP families; local businesses have already volunteered donation boxes—demonstrating a strong community response to food insecurity.
Virginia is known for lovers and peanuts but also for pumpkins; experts at Virginia Tech say the state’s moderate climate makes it a top 10 pumpkin producer in October—supporting about $15 million in sales and local jobs.
Jennifer Nardine from University Libraries explained that Halloween started with ancient Pagan and Celtic traditions where people dressed up to protect children from evil spirits — over time, the celebration evolved into a fun day for costumes, feasting, and community activities.
On Oct.29, local officials in the New River Valley met to address affordable housing challenges—focusing on new steps to boost access for low-income residents.
The discussion set the stage for upcoming policy changes across the region.
VDOT warned drivers that deer and elk are more active in November because of mating season and the end of daylight savings—motorists should check headlights, clean windshields, and slow down near forests and streams to avoid collisions.
A veteran is raising funds to help stop soldier suicide by supporting mental health programs (local events are planned) in Blacksburg.
He hopes his efforts will boost access to vital support resources for soldiers in need.
Since 2022, 62 pharmacies closed—including 32 in 2025—and more than half of Virginia’s zip codes now have no pharmacy, making it hard for residents to get needed medications.
In response, the Virginia Board of Health declared pharmacy deserts a public health threat and lawmakers introduced the Save Local Pharmacies Act that will require a transparent pharmacy benefit manager by July 2026.
Local health officials advised residents to follow preventive measures as flu season approaches—practicing good hygiene by washing hands, covering coughs, and staying home when ill.
They also recommended getting vaccinated to help lower virus spread in homes, schools, and public places.
A local health article explains how Blacksburg residents can protect themselves during flu season by getting vaccinated and washing their hands regularly.
Health officials advise covering coughs and staying home if sick — measures that help slow the spread of the illness.
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.
Coastal Carolina Chanticleers vs Virginia Tech Hokies Women's Basketball
2-3:30 p.m. — Cassell Coliseum — Ticket prices vary — Catch the thrilling women's basketball matchup featuring the Chanticleers and Hokies.
2025 Blacksburg Turkey Trot
8:30 a.m. — 108 W Roanoke St, Blacksburg, VA — Registration fee applies — Participate in a festive 5k run on Thanksgiving morning for fun and fitness.
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