What's News Today: October 4, 2016

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(WSLS 10) - Sentencing is scheduled today for the man accused of luring a 14 year-old Tennessee Girl from her home. Benjamin Shook plead guilty to kidnapping, enticement of a minor and taking a minor across state lines for illegal sexual activity. Investigators say the 41 year-old sex offender lured 14 year-old Haleigh Wilson away from her home last year, prompting a nationwide Amber Alert. The two were found in Smyth County. Shook could face life in prison.

The City of Roanoke and Virginia Western Community College will hold an open house about improvements to Colonial Avenue tonight starting at seven. The event will give community members a chance to learn more about the city's $6.5 million road improvement project. The project calls for two roundabout, new sidewalks, bike lanes, traffic lights and storm water drains along a half-mile stretch in front of the college.

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Nearly two hundred students in Wythe and Bland Counties will attend a program on business development today. The sessions will focus on how to be competitive when looking for a job, work ethic and financial awareness. The program is sponsored by the Wytheville-Wythe-Bland Chamber of Commerce.

The Patrick Henry Community College baseball team will face off against the Franklin County Challengers tonight. The Challengers is a team made up of boys and girls between the ages of four and 22 with physical and mental challenges. All proceeds from the game tonight will go to the team to support its programs. The game begins at 7:30 p.m. at Hooker Field. Admission is $5.

Business owners taking part in the Start-up Wythe In contest will give their final pitches to a panel of judges tonight. The contest was started to help a new generation start businesses and bring jobs to downtown Wytheville. The winning pitch will receive $10,000 with the runner-up receiving $5,000.

Amherst County holds a public meeting tonight about the next phase of the Riveredge Park Trail. An additional 4,200 feet will be added along the James River. The current trail is 2,000 feet. If you plan to attend, you will learn about the proposed location, cost and the application process. The meeting begins at 6 p.m. At the Riveredge Park Community Center.

The ribbon will be cut today on the new downtown Roanoke kayak and canoe launch. The new launch was made possible by a crowdfunding campaign, raising $80,000. After the 1 p.m. ribbon cutting is a first float.