Fall festival canceled in Virginia due to virus concerns

By The Associated Press
May 1, 2020 | 6:17 AM

FERRUM, Va. — A fall festival in Virginia has been canceled due to virus safety concerns amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Organizers for the 47th annual Blue Ridge Folklife Festival said Thursday on Facebook the October festival in Ferrum has been rescheduled for next year.

Organizers say they will host a virtual event that same month.

Officials say in a news release reported by news outlets that they canceled the festival since they don’t know what the state’s guidelines on the virus will be in the coming months.

The Roanoke Times reports the event draws nearly 12,000 people to Ferrum College and features a host of talents.

Union for Boston Symphony Orchestra musicians authorizes first strike in ensemble’s 145-year history

By The Associated Press
August 23, 2026 | 8:58 AM

LENOX, Mass. (AP) — The union for Boston Symphony Orchestra musicians authorized the first strike in the ensemble's 145-year history on Saturday. The Boston Musicians' Association issued a statement ahead of the expiration of the union's three-year contract at 11:59 p.m. Sunday. The orchestra and management have had strained relations since BSO decided in March to force out music director Andris Nelsons next summer after 13 seasons. “In spite of the turmoil of the last six months caused by BSO’s leadership decision to terminate the orchestra’s musical director, Andris Nelsons, they have failed to agree to a collective bargaining agreement that would begin to restore the trust that they have destroyed and offer a fair contract to the musicians who are at the heart and soul of the BSO,” the union said in a statement.

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