The Virginia Department of Transportation will have a public meeting today on a plan to replace the Narrows bridge.

Residents may review plans for the Virginia 61 project and ask questions of VDOT staff during the meeting from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Narrows Community Center at 110 Mary St. No formal presentation will be given, according to a news release from VDOT.

The bridge will be replaced using funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

Written comments about the project may be submitted at the meeting or by mail to Richard Caywood, P.E., Virginia Department of Transportation, P.O. Box 3071, Salem, VA 24153. Comments may also be e-mailed to saleminfo@VDOT.virginia.gov. Reference "Route 61 bridge replacement, Public Hearing Comments" in the subject heading.

All written comments are due by Nov. 15.

Anyone requiring special assistance to attend the meeting should contact 387-5320 or (800) 611-5812.

-- The Roanoke Times

Spaghetti fundraising supper set in Elliston

The Elliston Volunteer Fire Department and Shawsville Volunteer Rescue Squad along with the Montgomery County Sheriff's Department will host a spaghetti dinner Nov. 14.

All proceeds will go toward the medical costs of Julie and Craig Helvey's daughter, Maranda, who was born prematurely. The Helvey's are members of the rescue squad and the fire department. Julie Helvey is also a deputy with the Montgomery County Sheriff's Department.

The dinner, which will cost $7, will be from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Elliston fire station.

Call 268-1055 for more information.

-- Mary Hardbarger