What permanent open container law means in Rome. East Bend opening updates. Sharp rise in 'probable' virus deaths this month. Chattooga on NBC's election watch map.

Today's first headlines:

• Business: What to know about Rome's permanent open container policy. Kohl's opens Sunday in Rome; nearby OrangeTheory Fitness already has folks sweating.
• 35 'probable' deaths so far this month in Northwest Georgia a pandemic record. Rome Schools: No masks required as of next Monday. 37 virus patients in Floyd, Redmond; no change since Monday.
• Billy Bob Thornton returning to Northwest Georgia? 'I reckon' -- as part of 2021 Rome International Film Festival next month.
• Campaign Watch: NBC to monitor Chattooga County elections as part of national walkup to midterm races. Advance voting ends Friday; precincts open 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Nov. 2. Who's on the ballot; where and when to vote.
• Buzz: Pepperell High Key Club's drive nets 73 units for Blood Assurance; most since 2012. Development Authority of Floyd County meets Friday morning.
• Ware Mechanical Weather: Temperatures to drop through Saturday after front sweeps through Thursday.
• Obituaries: Mrs. Leslie Cain, Mrs. Barbara Dale Oswalt Fisher, Mary Ann Watson.
• Dining: Public Health restaurant inspection scores, Tuesday-Saturday.
• Crimewatch brought to you by Big Dan's Car Wash. Updates on arrests.

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Truett's Chick-fil-A Sports Report

• John McClellan's high school picks: Closer look at post-season playoffs plus who will win this Friday. McClellan.
• Braves vs. Astros in game two of the World Series tonight at 8 on Fox.
• Georgia vs. Florida this Saturday, 3:30 p.m., CBS.
• Berry home, Shorter on the road this Saturday.
• Atlanta Falcons home Sunday vs. Carolina.
• Latest community sports.