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“The initial concept of Gobblerfest started in the fall of 2006,” said Greg Beecher, associate director for administrative services for University Unions and Student Activities of Virginia Tech. “With the tragedy of April 16, we found that it just wasn't possible to properly plan for the event to start in 2007.”

Gobblerfest is a joint effort involving Virginia Tech, the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce, the town of Blacksburg, Downtown Merchants, VT Engage and several other organizations. The combined energy will present area businesses and service agencies to freshmen, transfers, graduate students, returning students, faculty, staff and alumni at Virginia Tech, urging them to get more involved with the Blacksburg community.

“In relation to business, we expect this event to open doors and create relationships with the students and the business community,” said Shane Adams, President/CEO and director of tourism with the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce. “We see it as a way for the businesses to connect with the VT community and to show our support of the campus. It is of course also an opportunity to introduce the students and faculty to what the local business community has to offer.”

According to Beecher, there will also be at volunteer presence at Gobblerfest hosted by VT Engage, a network began shortly after April 16 designed to enlist volunteers for a number of neighborhood activities.

Student organizations will also present themselves during Gobblerfest. Upon completion of the evening, a concert will be sponsored by the Student Alumni Association.

Businesses are offered a 10' x 10' booth at a cost of $150. That cost is boosted to $500 if a business wishes to sell its products at Gobblerfest as opposed only informing the public of their services.

“At this point, all money from registration fees are going towards the expenses for marketing, equipment, production and logistical needs,” Beecher said. “A lot of volunteer help will be required for this event. University Unions and Student Activities (UUSA) is the primary sponsor and host of this event and we're proud to be leading the effort on such a new great tradition for Virginia Tech.”

For more details as they emerge, visit the official Gobblerfest website at www.gobblerfest.org. If your business is interested in participating, please contact Allison Long at (540) 552-2636 or by e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

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