Oct. 7, 2025

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VIRGINIA TECH RELEASES DATA ON LONGTERM STUDY SURROUNDING EARLY CHILDHOOD BRAIN DEVELOPMENT

Abhigna Koochana | News Writer

Virginia Tech released research data on early childhood development about pregnancy and infants.

Virginia Tech researchers at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute recently released their initial data set from Virginia’s long-term child development study.

The HEALthy Brain and Child Development Study is sponsored by a dozen institutes and recruits researchers from 27 research sites across the nation. They aim to study how environmental and biological factors impact brain development in infants. It’s a 10-year-long study, with information being collected from birth through age 10.

The Howell Lab, led by Brittany Howell, associate professor at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, leads the Virginia Tech research for the study.

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According to Cardinal News, the main focus of the study surrounds substance exposure, specifically opioids, during pregnancy. There is very limited research on the effect of prescription medications on infant brain development. The results of this study will push for greater understanding of pregnancy care and decision-making.

“(Mothers) have had to make a really hard decision: Is it worth the potential risk to continue to expose my baby to prescription medicines that I know might still impact them versus what might happen if I’m not on this medication?” Howell said to Cardinal News.

Researchers begin gathering data, such as blood and urine samples, during the second trimester of pregnancy.

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Then, about a month after the baby is born, they are brought in again for MRI scans which continue at frequent intervals until the baby is 15 months old. From then until age 10, they are brought in for annual visits.

“Researchers are not looking for problems in children, but rather studying how they grow, think, behave, form emotions, interact socially and develop cognitively in their earliest years,” Howell said.

The pregnant women who are chosen as participants for the study are being recruited from Central and Southwest Virginia. The Howell Lab aims to recruit at least 300 families, focusing on non-invasive and inclusive research methods. There is funding available for families that may not be able to afford travel to Roanoke.

“The reality is most average families don’t participate in research, and I don’t think it’s because they don’t want to, it’s because they don’t have access to it,” Howell said.

The initial data, released on a national level, includes data from over 1,400 pregnant women, monitoring their babies from birth to nine months. It includes data surrounding prenatal health, substance exposure, environmental impacts and infant brain imaging results.

“Researchers in child development and neuroscience now have at their fingertips rich, longitudinal brain, behavioral and genomic data from these two pivotal studies, which will enable a new generation of breakthroughs in these fields,” said Christina Chambers, professor at the Department of Pediatrics at UC San Diego School of Medicine, to UC San Diego Today. Although this study is still on its first leg, the long-term impacts of the research can influence better pregnancy care and childcare for future generations.

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GOVERNOR’S RACE INSPIRES VOTER ENGAGEMENT AMONG STUDENTS

Hannah Skemp | News Writer

Student organizations at Virginia Tech are helping students get involved in the upcoming governor’s race.

The race for the next Virginia governor is underway, with candidates Abigail Spanberger (D) and Winsome Earle-Sears (R) coming head-to-head for the 2025 gubernatorial election Nov. 4. Virginia Tech students can now register to vote in Blacksburg.

The winning candidate will succeed incumbent Gov. Glenn Youngkin, whose term is concluding. Unlike most states, Virginia holds its governor’s race during an off-year, which is an odd-numbered year that does not coincide with a presidential election. As a result, voter turnout is often lower.

Across campus, various voter registration organizations are actively encouraging students to register to vote. Naomi Gedamu, a junior majoring in political

science, serves as a deputy field organizer for NextGen America. NextGen America is one of the organizations focused on motivating young people to participate in elections. Their mission is to empower young voters to ensure their voices are heard and considered in government decisions.

“I think it’s really important to register to vote in general just because young people today are the largest and most diverse generation in American history,” Gedamu said. “When we all come together and we all vote for a government that represents us and our values, it’s collective power.”

Early voting is currently in progress and will continue until Nov. 1. Students residing in Blacksburg can vote in person at local polling locations now. Those registered to vote elsewhere in Virginia can request an

absentee ballot.

“This is my first time voting away from home, but luckily it is very easy for me to vote even though I am four hours away,” said Mikayla Viray-Belev, a freshman majoring in architecture. “Once I filled out my absentee ballot, all I had to do was mail it back to my hometown.”

Out-of-state students can also participate in upcoming elections by registering to vote in Blacksburg.

“I would say that it can benefit (them), especially out-of-state students, because they live in their college address nine months out of the 12-month year,” Gedamu said. “So they would only be impacted three months out of the year by their home state elections.”

Students, regardless of their home

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state, are able to vote and participate in the democratic process. Students interested in learning more about Virginia politics can use NextGen America’s Ballot Builder resource.

“This (ballot builder) can help students learn more about what’s on their ballot and it takes them to a link that has the governor’s race,” Gedamu said. “We (NextGen America) mobilize students into politics, and after they are mobilized, they try to find the candidate that aligns with their values.”

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NEW COOKS ON THE BLOCK: NAMASTE KITCHEN OPENS IN BLACKSBURG

Grace Belcher | Lifestyles Contributor

Namaste Kitchen brings Nepali cuisine and culture to Main Street.

Over the summer, Moe’s Southwest Grill on North Main Street in Downtown Blacksburg closed its doors. The building transformed, and with it came a new culture of cuisine. Locals and visitors alike said goodbye to Moe’s Mondays and hello to the traditional Nepali flavors of Namaste Kitchen. Since opening this past July, Namaste Kitchen’s prime location has led it to become a hotspot downtown.

“Business has been going very well so far,” said co-owner Anish Lamsal. “Opening a restaurant always comes with challenges, but we’ve been fortunate to receive such strong support from the local community. People here in Blacksburg have been welcoming from the start, and it truly feels like we’re

becoming part of a big family.”

Namaste Kitchen’s interior is a beautifully decorated, open-concept space with both booth and table seating. The leather seats of the booth and light fixtures bring a warm and inviting atmosphere to the restaurant. Guests can sit at the spacious bar and look at Nepali artworks while they eat.

The menu is extensive. Guests can choose from chicken, goat, lamb and vegetarian dishes with tandoori and biryani flavors. Namaste Kitchen serves appetizers, entrees and sides along with a full cocktail and mocktail lineup. For patrons who want a full Nepali meal, order the lassi (yogurt-based drink) or chai.

“For us, food is not just about serving

meals — it’s about sharing culture and creating a place where people can feel at home. Seeing customers enjoy our dishes and come back with friends and family has been incredibly rewarding,” Lamsal said. “The reaction has been very positive, and it gives us even more motivation to keep improving and giving back to this community.”

It’s not every day that a new place opens downtown; a good portion of the restaurants and bars here have been open for years. However, Lamsal took what could have been an intimidating situation and changed it into a moment of gratitude.

“Moving into a new town can sometimes feel overwhelming, but Blacksburg has such a warm and inviting

atmosphere that it didn’t take long for us to feel settled in,” Lamsal said. “This environment has made the transition smooth and exciting, and I look forward to continuing to grow here.”

A HIKER’S GUIDE TO THE HUCKLEBERRY TRAIL

Samuel Harvey | Lifestyles Staff Writer

From history to wildlife, lifestyles staff writer Samuel Harvey highlights the 15-mile trail.

Wildflowers decorate the way past sloping pastures where cattle, sheep and birds all contribute to a tranquil, natural ambiance. Trickling water serves as a highway for ducks and geese as they paddle along. Trees gently stretch their branches overhead, providing shade and shelter.

This may sound like something out of a nature documentary, but this mystical path is right here in Blacksburg. Meandering from the Blacksburg Public Library to the Christiansburg Recreation Center, the Huckleberry Trail forms a scenic 15-mile bridge between the two towns.

History

Before it became a public trail, the Huckleberry Trail opened in 1902 as a railroad line used to transport coal from Blacksburg to Christiansburg. This same railroad line was first used to bring the Corps of Cadets to Virginia Tech in 1904. During the brief rest stop between Christiansburg and Blacksburg, passengers passed the time by picking

huckleberries from bushes that grew in abundance just off the train tracks.

This section of railroad soon earned the name “Huckleberry Crossing.” As the era of steam engines gave way to the new era of automobiles, the railroad saw its last use in 1958. In 1966, James Garrett of Virginia Tech’s horticulture department converted the dilapidated railroad line into the walkable trail that exists today.

Coal Mining Park

For those interested in local history, Coal Mining Park, located at mile five, is worth exploring. The park is built on the site of the Merrimac Mine, which was opened in the 1790s by a Hessian veteran of the Revolutionary War. The mine stayed open through the Civil War and into the early 20th century.

Just off the trail in the park, a Civil War-era minecart serves as a relic to the long history of the mine. While the Merrimac Mine itself is barred to the public, you can still check out its original location.

“Education gives more of a reason to

go from point A to point B,” said Dean Crane, Blacksburg Parks and Recreation director.

Livestock and Wildlife Viewing

If watching sheep and cows graze puts your mind at ease for a bit, these barnyard animals are visible from the trail. Where the trail runs along Smithfield Road, one side herds cows pastures while the opposite side, sheep or bulls, during parts of the year. These animals are housed at the William M. Etgen Large Animal Learning Center at Virginia Tech. There is also a park bench, which offers a peaceful resting spot for animal viewing.

The Huckleberry Trail is also home to other wildlife. A colorful variety of birds, including eastern bluebirds and red northern cardinals, can be found in the treetops. On the ground, cottontail rabbits and groundhogs dig their burrows just off the trail. When scanning the rolling hills along the trail, it is not uncommon to spot groups of whitetailed deer grazing.

Although rare, black bears have been sighted in the Blacksburg area, so seeing them on the trail could be a possibility. If you do encounter a bear, keep your distance and make noise to scare it away. It is important to remember that black bears are shy creatures and are generally more scared of you than you are of them. Best Times to Visit

Each season presents a different aspect of the trail’s beauty. In the spring, wildflower species such as the Virginia bluebell bloom in abundance. Clear skies and sunshine during the summer give way to untainted views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

As temperatures cool in the fall, every tree surrounding the trail puts on its Hokie colors. During the winter, the pastures are blanketed in snow and icicles gently drip water on any trail-goer. No matter what time of year you travel on the Huckleberry Trail, there is beauty to be found.

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SOUVLAKI: A SLICE OF GREEK CUISINE STRAIGHT OFF THE GYRO CONE

Benjamin Gozzi | Lifestyles Staff Writer

A look inside Souvlaki, a Blacksburg food staple since 1982.

Souvlaki is more than a typical Greek restaurant; it is an experience. A larger-than-life sign ushers you inside, similar to the swirling blue and red stripes of a barber’s pole.

The glass door creaks a welcome. With its simple interior of wooden chairs, tables and a diner-style counter, the ambiance is distinctive.

Souvlaki first opened its doors to hungry customers in the fall of 1982. While times — and its original location on Draper Road — have changed, the mission remains the same: taking pride in serving “quality Greek specialties,” a promise featured on their website.

The menu at Souvlaki is a highlight reel of traditional Greek dishes. Pita wraps, kebabs, gyro plates, spanakopita and well-known “Super Subs” are like

a basketball team’s starting five. The head coach of that team is the spinning gyro cone in the far-left corner of the establishment.

For a dish that captures classic Greek flavors, order a savory gyro. Souvlaki employees cut thick slabs of meat right off the rotating tower.

The food presentation at Souvlaki is casual yet effective. Many items, specifically the “Super Subs,” are an edible painting of lettuce, tomato, onion, Swiss cheese and the restaurant’s homemade tzatziki dressing, made from yogurt and dill. A warm, toasted roll provides customers with a crunch factor that complements the rest of the ensemble.

Taste isn’t the only thing that keeps customers coming back. Many return to enjoy the culture and relive the

nostalgia.

“We have tons of regulars, and almost every shift I work, an alumni comes in and tells me it looks just the same as when they were in college,” said Lexi Tsanganelias, a Souvlaki employee.

“Every time they’re in Blacksburg, they have to come to Souvlaki.”

Tsanganelias, who is Greek herself, began working at Souvlaki during her freshman year at Virginia Tech. As a current junior majoring in entrepreneurship, innovation and technology management, the restaurant has been a constant in her college career.

“I was intrigued by the Greek spot right off campus,” Tsanganelias said. “I walked over one day my freshman year and asked if I could work there just because of (my heritage).”

Other employees, such as Andie Hirz, a junior majoring in smart and sustainable cities, value the togetherness that the Greek hotspot has curated throughout its decades in Blacksburg.

“Everyone always has a fun time … it’s truly the people,” Hirz said. “(The ambiance is) a 10 out of 10.”

For more than 40 years, Souvlaki has stood the test of time as a stable, welcoming, fan-favorite restaurant in Blacksburg — and the good times don’t seem to be stopping any time soon.

“We’ve been here a long time,” Hirz said with a smile, “(I encourage) people to come in.”

GREENHOUSE BOARDSHOP: NOT YOUR AVERAGE HOKIE APPAREL

Emma Duncan | Lifestyles Editor

Less than 500 feet from Squires Student Center, in between Top of the Stairs and Souvlaki, lies Greenhouse Boardshop. Despite its proximity to campus and giant green letters, co-owner Lee Johnson shared that many Hokies don’t know that Greenhouse Boardshop exists until they’re alumni, making it one of Blacksburg’s best-kept secret apparel stores.

From custom Virginia Tech merch to clothing that showcases the college town Hokies know and love, Greenhouse Boardshop’s apparel is custom-made, hand-designed by the owners and perfectly priced for broke college students.

However, collegiate clothing is not what Greenhouse Boardshop has always been known for. As a second-generation owner, Lee works alongside his little brother Daniel Johnson to carry on their father, Kenny Johnson’s, legacy. In 1984, Kenny purchased Surf-n-Turf, a sporting goods store in Salem, Virginia. While surfwear was the main attraction to customers, Lee and Daniel felt that the most exciting section of the store was the skateboards.

“My older brother, Lee, had begun skateboarding in the late 1970s and I

had joined in a few years later, so the idea of our family having a skate shop was amazing,” Daniel said. “During this era, skateboarding became extremely popular and our skateboard selection grew accordingly.”

This growth, paired with a desire to live in the town, encouraged the family to open a second location in Blacksburg, Virginia in 1992. Lee was a recent Virginia Tech graduate, while Daniel was just beginning his collegiate career.

“As with many things, I think we made a decision that goes against the basic principles of business,” Daniel said. “We decided to focus more on skateboarding and snowboarding, and changed the name to Greenhouse, opting for a more enigmatic name instead of something that sounded like a dinner entree of steak and lobster.”

Over the next ten years, the Surf-n-Turf would unfortunately close its doors, unable to keep pace with the surge of online shopping and name-brand outlets. While Greenhouse also faced competition, the Johnson brothers recall feeling determined to see their shop thrive.

Daniel and Lee needed something different, something customers could

only buy at Greenhouse Boardshop. They were already screen printing specialty-made Greenhouse merch, which was very well received, so they upgraded their equipment, drafted some designs, and began offering custom clothing and screen printing services to the community.

“We enjoy helping people have their design concepts come to life,” Daniel said.

What sets Greenhouse Boardshop apart from other stores downtown is its diverse selection. The brothers have maintained their stock of pro-model skateboarding equipment; customers can choose from a large selection of decks, wheels and other gear that takes up the back half of the store. The left side of the store is home to a long shoe rack featuring brands such as Vans and New Balance.

With designs inspired by brands such as Adidas, The North Face and Patagonia, as well as bands like Nirvana and Metallica, Greenhouse apparel merges Blacksburg pride with style trends. Popular shirts say “BlacksBORG,” “The Burg,” simply “SWVA” (Southwest Virginia) or “Blacksburg” in different

fonts and shapes. Most t-shirts cost $20 each or two t-shirts for $35.

When you buy a shirt, hat, or pair of pants from Greenhouse, you’re purchasing something with character, and you’re becoming part of a community.

“The most enjoyable part of being a business owner is hands down being able to have a true relationship with the local community,” Daniel said. “The vibrancy and diversity provided by the Virginia Tech community, combined with the small-town charm of Blacksburg make this a wonderful place to be. Having the opportunity to just converse with all that walk through our doors is what keeps us going.”

Custom clothing isn’t the only thing Greenhouse Boardshop gives to locals. In 1997, Lee and Daniel collaborated with Blacksburg Parks and Recreation to build a wooden public skate park.

“This would eventually become updated to the current concrete park, with future expansion on the horizon,” Daniel said.

As commercial retailers compete with nearby shops, often selling similar designs at fluctuating prices, Greenhouse Boardshop remains constant in their mission: providing quality, innovative merchandise at affordable prices. Unlike Surf-n-Turf, the Johnson brothers don’t see Greenhouse Boardshop closing anytime soon, but instead, continuing the multi-generational legacy.

“We feel very fortunate that our community has kept our store in business for over 40 years. We strive to bring something a little different to the table for our customers to enjoy,” Daniel said. “The retail landscape is quickly changing in towns and cities across the country towards the same chain stores or restaurants. We are confident that the Blacksburg community will keep supporting local establishments.”

DISSOLVING LAVENDER HOUSE AND UJIMA IS MORE THAN LOSING TWO LLCS

Emily Urda and Cleo Dobson | Opinions Contributors

The dissolution of DEI initiative leaves many students without a safe space for their identity.

As a result of the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors’ vote to ban DEI on campus, living-learning communities Ujima and the Lavender House are being dissolved. Without these two LLCs, a sense of belonging for many people on campus will ultimately be lost.

Despite Virginia Tech being a predominantly white institution there are many communities represented at the university. Our living-learning communities and community centers allow space for students to meet people who may be culturally similar. These LLCs and centers encourage students to learn about cultures they might be unfamiliar with.

These are not only communities, but safe havens protecting members from bias and uplifting them in the process. Sorority and fraternity houses provide similar siblinghoods: A place for individuals to meet like-minded people and feel comfortable. Why remove an on-campus equivalent for a different group of students?

Ujima is the Africana studies LLC at Virginia Tech. Located in PeddrewYates Hall, the dorm is named after the first Black students to matriculate and graduate from VT. Ujima was founded in 2018 and has since grown to be one of the largest LLCs on campus.

Lavender House is the LGBTQ+ studies LLC and it coexists in gender inclusive housing. The small but tight-knit community was founded just three years ago in 2022. It serves as a safe space for both its members and other queer students at Virginia Tech to express themselves without fear of discrimination.

Zoe Shutt, a freshman in Lavender House, joined an LLC for the community it provided. For members of Ujima and Lavender House, however, having that community means more than friendship — it means safety.

“They made sure us and Ujima had

the meeting at the same time so neither found out any other way; in the room, it got very heavy, very dark,” Shutt said.

Theo Wall, a transgender freshman in Lavender House, voiced concerns about his safety living outside of the LLC.

“As a trans person, I don’t know how comfortable I would be sharing living spaces with people who are cis-het,” Wall said. “I don’t want to live with people who think my existence is a debate.”

While the loss of Lavender House negatively impacts the queer community at VT, losing Ujima is a massive hit to VT’s Black student population. Virginia Tech is below average in diversity in all aspects. According to Tech’s institutional data, only 2,181 students — 5.5% of the student body — reported themselves as Black.

Studies show that students of color perceive and face microaggressions and discrimination from their peers in their residential halls at PWIs and are often excluded. Ujima is an opportunity for Black students to find each other and ensure they are not isolated from their community while at college. Multiple members have described Ujima as being instrumental in their decision to apply to and enroll at Virginia Tech, including Myah Ferebee, a freshman in the LLC.

“Beyond just academics, Ujima has made me feel seen, valued and inspired to contribute to the broader community, which has made all the difference in shaping my journey at Tech so far,” Ferebee said.

As news of the LLC’s closing spread among students, unaffiliated members who belong to the LGBTQ+ and Black communities began to dread the negative effects of the disbandment.

Despite not being a member of either organization, freshman Caela Sanchez fears the effects it will have on their Virginia Tech experience.

“It means less safety; it shows the school is less united with us,” Sanchez

said. “I think this will encourage people to be outward about their hatred.”

Earlier this year, President Donald Trump called for the recommended removal of DEI practices on college campuses. His desires include reshaping higher education to become more “merit-based.” According to The White House, “The public release of these plans demonstrated immense public waste and shameful discrimination.”

Ujima and Lavender House support smaller communities at VT, but all community members are allowed to join. Allegedly, these programs are discriminatory against the majority groups at Virginia Tech, despite the fact that allies are welcome and encouraged to join the programs. The LLCs exist to promote safety and unity.

This year, students applying to Virginia Tech are asked to answer short answers in the “Ut Prosim Profile” to see if they will uphold Virginia Tech values. The second question begins with the fact that Virginia Tech “supports access and inclusion by affirming the dignity and value of every person, respecting differences, promoting mutual understanding and open expression and strives to eliminate bias and discrimination.” We claim to support inclusion and eliminate discrimination, yet at the same time, Virginia Tech is taking away spaces for its diverse students to express themselves. How can incoming freshmen be expected to follow these standards when Virginia Tech itself does not?

Despite the cuts to diverse programs, the Virginia Tech community proves to persevere. Our community will bounce back from this. Black Coalition, Black Mindedness and the Black Organizations Council, work in unison to bridge communities together, specifically wanting to work with new Ujima students. The Pride Center is working to support the queer community at

VT in place of the Lavender House. Student Front is another community organization holding space for the LLC removals and has been advocating for Lavender House and Ujima. Spaces are being made off campus for students in these communities as well.

Students here at Virginia Tech want to know that their university will protect and back them. They want honesty, integrity and all members to be served equally. We want Virginia Tech to continue to be a wonderful place. Our school’s loyalty, pride and down-toearth Blacksburg community is what distinguishes us from other universities. Hate has no place in our community.

Ava Libbey | Opinions Contributor

The town of Blacksburg captivates the aesthetic of Stars Hollow without the issues a small town brings.

As the leaves change colors and the air chills, many fans of the popular show “Gilmore Girls” are beginning their annual rewatch. Although the final season of the show aired over 17 years ago, it remains widely popular, partly due to the enduring appeal of the charming town of Stars Hollow. As a long-time fan of the show, I find myself seeking out experiences and places with a similar comforting, nostalgic and quaint atmosphere. I am happy to declare to other Gilmore Girls at Virginia Tech, that Blacksburg, Virginia offers everything Stars Hollow does and more. There are many reasons to love Stars Hollow, including its small town charm, abundance of local businesses, walkability and strong sense of community. Blacksburg certainly checks the same boxes, whether it’s instantly apparent or not. With the introduction of the character, Jess Mariano, a cursory glance around town, followed by the song “This Is Hell” shows us the appeal of Stars Hollow is not universal. Before becoming a Hokie, I searched the internet looking for things to do in Blacksburg. The resounding answer in online discussions was that there was absolutely nothing

BLACKSBURG LOCAL CHARM RIVALS “GILMORE GIRLS” STARS HOLLOW SPORTS

besides hiking or going to bars.

Many of the businesses that fans adore in Stars Hollow have near parallels in Blacksburg. Stars Hollow Books mirrors Blacksburg Books; both are locally owned. According to their website, Blacksburg Books emphasizes community, showcasing local artists, products and a love for books. Similarly, the Black, White and Read theater in Stars Hollow matches the Lyric Theater. Though lacking the intimate feel of the fictional theater, the Lyric, built in 1929, offers historic charm. They show a variety of new and old films, as well as hosting special events and concerts. This month would be especially perfect for a “Gilmore Girls” style outing at the Lyric’s Late Night Horror Fest taking place every Thursday at 10 p.m.

One of the most essential places in Stars Hollow is Luke’s Diner, one site I will concede that Blacksburg offers no parallel. Although, do fans really like the diner itself or do we just like Luke? I would argue that a Luke’s with no Luke would not be a place worth visiting. However, Blacksburg does boast numerous restaurants worth visiting regardless of banter with the proprietors. One of

my favorite spots is Gillies, which has an eclectic, comfortable atmosphere and most matches the romanticized Stars Hollow aesthetic.

The eccentric town features are another significant factor. In this category particularly, Blacksburg prevails. From the 16 hidden frogs to the pianos in various public locations, the town prioritizes art and whimsy in the community. The ability to find music constantly throughout Blacksburg is one of the primary reasons I find myself reminded of the town troubadour in Stars Hollow. Whether it’s the pianos on Draper, late night jazz at Gillies, various events or the artists at the Blacksburg Farmers Market, music is easily accessible.

The greatest thing about Blacksburg is that it’s not Stars Hollow. We share all of the positive aspects; local businesses, whimsy, walkability, music and community without the inconvenience of living in a truly small town. Blacksburg prioritizes historical and local charm without sacrificing the functionality of the community. Access to grocery stores and a variety of shops and dining

is essential for quality and ease of life. Although Stars Hollow is charming, the inconvenience of living in a tiny town is highlighted throughout the show as characters struggle to meet each of their needs. One of my favorite examples that would certainly never take place in Blacksburg occurs as Lane Kim attempts to celebrate her bachelorette party, but there is not a single bar open. Though I despise the notion that the myriad of bars is the only thing to do in Blacksburg, they are a fundamental asset to the town and overall culture.

Blacksburg is beautifully balanced. As Hokies, we have the ability to shape our experiences and the opportunity to live in a place in which a diverse array of desires and needs can be met in one place. Whether you’re searching for Stars Hollow or a vibrant college town, there is something here for everyone in a community that fosters creativity and individualism.

FLAGS AND FIELD GOALS DEFINE HOKIES’ HOMECOMING GAME LOSS

Thomas Bray | Sports Editor

Mistakes piled on for Virginia Tech in its 30-23 loss to Wake Forest.

Virginia Tech’s afternoon came down to self-inflicted mistakes. Costly penalties on both ends, and three field goals in the red zone, turned promise into frustration as the Hokies dropped their Homecoming game 30-23 to Wake Forest on Saturday.

Virginia Tech beat itself.

“We’ve got to eliminate some of the self-inflicted things,” said interim head coach Philip Montgomery. “Our penalties were costly, but I never question how hard they’re playing.”

Virginia Tech’s first drive ended

abruptly when quarterback Kyron Drones’ third-down pass from his own 13 was deflected by linebacker Aiden Hall and intercepted by Dallas Afalava. The takeaway gave Wake Forest (3-2, 1-2 ACC) a short field, but Tech’s defense held, forcing a 33-yard field goal from Connor Calvert.

The Hokies (2-4, 1-2 ACC) responded quickly. Drones directed an eight-play, 43-yard drive capped by Marcellous Hawkins’ 1-yard touchdown run midway through the first quarter.

After Wake’s Demond Claiborne

tied the game with an 11-yard score — a possession extended by a roughing-thepasser call — Drones connected with redshirt freshman Takye Heath on a slant for a 9-yard touchdown. It was Heath’s first career score and gave the Hokies a 14-10 lead.

Momentum shifted soon after. A late-hit penalty on safety Kaleb Spencer kept a Demon Deacon drive alive on third-and-15. Three plays later, Ty Clark punched in a 3-yard touchdown.

Right before halftime, quarterback Robby Ashford found tight end Eni Falayi

for a 10-yard score, sending Wake into the locker room up 24-14.

Virginia Tech’s offense moved the ball consistently in the second half but couldn’t find the end zone, settling for three straight field goals from kicker John Love — makes of 32, 38 and 34 yards — to stay within striking distance.

The defense produced a spark late in the third quarter when linebacker Jaden Keller tipped a pass that cornerback Isaiah Brown-Murray intercepted at the Wake 11-yard line.

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However, a loss on third down, followed by an unsportsmanlike-conduct penalty in the end zone, pushed Tech back to the 17-yard line.

Love’s field goal cut the deficit to 27-23, but the chance for a lead slipped away.

“We moved the ball,” Montgomery said. “We just didn’t finish.”

Love’s 49-yard attempt with 8:44 to play sailed wide right — his second miss

of the season — and Wake responded with a 13-play, 59-yard drive that drained more than six minutes before Calvert’s 27-yard kick sealed the game.

Virginia Tech finished with 374 yards of offense to Wake Forest’s 346 and outgained the Demon Deacons on the ground 159-98, but six untimely penalties for 49 yards and three sacks played a factor in Tech failing to reach

the end zone in the second half.

It wasn’t about effort or preparation. It was about execution — the handful of moments when momentum slowed and a yellow flag drifted to the turf.

“We’re patching holes,” Montgomery said. “We’ve got young guys playing and veterans moving around, but the effort and attitude are there. We’ve just got to finish.”

Mistakes kept Virginia Tech from finishing what it started. Under Montgomery, the Hokies have found signs of progress — but the season’s story is still being written. Next Saturday at Georgia Tech offers another chance to finish the chapter differently.

@COLLEGIATETIMES

GRADING THE HOKIES AGAINST WAKE FOREST

Thomas Hughes | Sports Staff Writer

Virginia Tech saw production from running backs and linebackers in the loss.

Undone by self-inflicted mistakes, Virginia Tech football dropped its fourth contest of 2025 in a 30-23 loss to Wake Forest Saturday afternoon. Here’s how the Hokies (2-4, 1-1 ACC) graded out in this weekend’s matinee:

Offense

Quarterbacks: D

Drones turned in one of his roughest outings of the season Saturday, completing just 14 of 28 passes for a season-low 111 yards. His overall quarterback rating (QBR) dropped to 48.5, ranking No. 90 nationally and near the bottom of the ACC. Against Wake Forest (3-2, 1-2), Drones posted a season-low QBR of 26.4 and, for the second straight week, failed to find the end zone on the ground. His 111 passing yards were his fewest in a single game since the 2023 Military Bowl against then-No. 20 Tulane.

It was an afternoon defined by missed opportunities and limited rhythm. Drones’ 147 total yards of offense were his lowest since Tech’s 2023 matchup with then-No. 13 Louisville — a 34-3 loss for the Hokies — and his dual-threat impact never fully surfaced. Throughout the game, Drones struggled to match the efficiency and composure of Wake Forest quarterback Robby Ashford, who kept the Demon Deacons’ offense consistently moving en route to 256 passing yards.

Running Backs: B-

Tailback Terion Stewart once again

flashed his breakaway speed, breaking free for a 43-yard run on the Hokies’ first drive of the second quarter. Outside of that burst, however, he managed just 19 yards on eight additional carries before leaving the contest early with an apparent left shoulder injury.

From there, Marcellous Hawkins, who has started all six contests, carried most of the workload, finishing with 48 yards on 11 carries in a steady but unspectacular effort. Overall, the Hokies outpaced Wake Forest on the ground in a solid effort, totaling 152 rushing yards to the Demon Deacons’ 91.

Wide Receivers: D+

Wideout Takye Heath’s first-ever collegiate touchdown was one of the few highlights that emerged for the receiving corps Saturday. Donavon Greene paced the Hokies in receiving yards Saturday with 52, hauling in a 24-yard catch in the third quarter that pushed Tech up to Wake Forest’s 29-yard line in a drive that eventually resulted in a field goal.

However, outside of Donavon Greene, no Hokie receiver eclipsed 25 yards. Heath put up 23 yards on three receptions, Cameron Seldon tallied nine yards on two catches, while Ayden Greene and Isaiah Spencer managed just 15 and five yards, respectively. No tight end put up a reception Saturday.

Defense

Defensive Line: C

Tech’s defensive line turned in a largely unremarkable performance

against Wake Forest. Early on, the group appeared to have the upper hand on Ashford, generating pressure and disrupting the pocket through the first quarter. However, that early surge faded as the game wore on. Wake Forest’s offensive line adjusted, giving Ashford more time to operate in the pocket in the second half. In total, Ashford threw for 256 yards, with a 62-yard reception to Sawyer Racanelli being the punctuation mark on a solid day for the Demon Deacons signal-caller.

The front struggled to finish plays, often getting close but failing to bring Ashford down. A costly roughing-thepasser penalty on defensive end Ben Bell extended Wake Forest’s first drive of the second quarter and led to a touchdown from back Demond Claiborne.

Linebackers: B

The Hokies limited Wake Forest to under 100 rushing yards, but discipline again proved costly. Linebacker Kaleb Spencer was flagged for unnecessary roughness on quarterback Robby Ashford midway through the second quarter, extending what became a pivotal Demon Deacons drive. Had Spencer not committed the penalty, the ensuing play would have been fourth-and-9, necessitating a field goal from Wake Forest.

Just three plays later, reserve running back Ty Clark powered into the end zone, giving the Demon Deacons a 17-14 lead they wouldn’t surrender. It was a tough break for a defense that had otherwise contained the run, limiting Wake Forest to only 91 yards on the ground.

Defensive Backs: C

Virginia Tech’s defensive backs delivered a turbulent, up-and-down outing against Wake Forest. Cornerback Isaiah Brown-Murray provided a highlight with an interception at the Demon Deacons’ four-yard line off a tipped pass, but the secondary missed several other turnover opportunities.

Cornerback Thomas Williams had three separate chances where the ball was in his vicinity, but each slipped through his hands. The last resulted in a hard fall that left him slow to get up before gingerly walking off. His availability for Georgia Tech will be critical for a unit already thinned by injuries and departures through the transfer portal.

Virginia Tech will next take on No. 17 Georgia Tech in Atlanta, Georgia, Saturday, Oct. 11, at 3:30 p.m. Viewing for the contest will be available on the ACC Network.