News

Crime

Fatal shooting outside southwest Roanoke church linked to road rage

Headline and link only — we do not reprint that outlet.

Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

News

Family of six displaced after Doe Run Road house fire, county fire officials say

Roanoke County Fire Department says it answered a call about 6:46 p.m. Monday in the 5300 block of Doe Run Road for a house fire. Cave Spring units reported smoke and upgraded the call to a working fire. Crews knocked the fire down within about 10 minutes, and no injuries were reported. A family of six was displaced. The fire marshal ruled the fire accidental and said it started on the back porch involving a riding lawnmower; damage is estimated at about $300,000.

Monday, Sept. 28, 2026 · WSLS

Crime

Roanoke police identify man charged after Wayne Street NE barricade

Roanoke police say Donald Lee Visel, 39, barricaded himself Monday afternoon in the 1900 block of Wayne Street NE after officers answered a domestic-disorder call about 3:23 p.m. Police say he was taken into custody and charged with simple assault against a family member. He is held without bond at the Roanoke City Adult Detention Center. Noble Avenue at Williamson Road and Wayne Street between Thurston and Noble were closed during the response.

Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2026 · WDBJ

News

Roads reopen after Garman train and tractor-trailer crash in Roanoke County

Roanoke County police say a tractor-trailer and a train collided Saturday morning near Garman Road and Garman Circle. WSLS reports Diuguids Lane and Barley Drive have reopened in a late-afternoon update; WDBJ says county police report all roads reopened. WSLS says Garman Road traffic control was turned over to Norfolk Southern while repairs continue.

Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026 · WDBJ

Read at WDBJ · WSLS · WFXR

News

I-81 northbound lanes reopen near Ironto after crash

WFXR reported both northbound lanes near the Ironto rest area (about mile marker 125) reopened about 12:30 p.m. Thursday after a crash closed them earlier; backups were still clearing on I-81.

Thursday, Sept. 24, 2026 · WFXR

Development

WDBJ finds Wood Haven NDA predates Clearview Dynamics by nearly two years

Public records obtained by WDBJ show the Wood Haven Technology Park purchase agreement lists a buyer–seller nondisclosure agreement dated March 26, 2024, while Virginia business filings put Clearview Dynamics’ formation in January 2026. WVRIFA executive director John Hull said the authority originally signed with an “affiliated corporate entity” and has not identified that company; board chair Gary Larrowe told the station he did not yet know why the dates diverge.

Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2026 · WDBJ

Events

Go Cross cyclocross returns to Fallon Park this weekend

Organizers expect about 5,000 people in Roanoke for Virginia’s Blue Ridge Go Cross at Fallon Park, with racing from 7:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, through Sunday afternoon, WSLS reports. Event organizer Kait Pedigo said the C1/C2-rated meet draws elite riders from about 30 states and countries including Canada, Cuba, and the Netherlands.

Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2026 · WSLS

News

LewisGale plans freestanding Hollins ER with about $20M from HCA

HCA Virginia says roughly $20 million will fund an about 11,000-square-foot freestanding emergency room in Hollins for LewisGale Medical Center, slated for 2028 and described as the network’s third freestanding ER after Cave Spring and Blue Hills, WDBJ reports. Officials also said they plan to add a second ACE helicopter and air-medical base in Danville this fall with Air Methods.

Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2026 · WDBJ

City Hall

Salem says two Fire-EMS employees no longer employed after alleged I-81 slur

Salem officials confirmed to WSLS that two Fire-EMS employees recorded on dash camera during an alleged off-duty I-81 racial-slur encounter are no longer employed by the city. The department had placed the pair on administrative leave, said an internal investigation continues, and has not released names; the family says they still lack a police case number.

Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2026 · WSLS

City Hall

Council hears Wood Haven protests as Cobb presses ethics case on McGuire and Nash

Monday’s City Council meeting was the first since the Wood Haven Technology Park purchase agreement became public, and speakers pressed for transparency and urged opposition to a potential data center, WDBJ reports. Before the public session, council discussed the municipal code of ethics in closed session. Mayor Joe Cobb says Vice Mayor Terry McGuire and Councilman Phazhon Nash breached that code with public remarks after a regional industrial board’s closed-session vote on the land deal; he called their joint social-media statement inappropriate. Possible steps under the city’s ethics rules include a verbal reprimand, fines, or removal from committee assignments. McGuire and Nash say their first duty is to constituents.

Monday, Sept. 21, 2026 · WDBJ

Read at Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge · City calendar

Around Town

USA Today 10Best puts Roanoke No. 3 for fall colors

Readers ranked Roanoke third nationally for fall foliage destinations in USA Today’s 2026 10Best list, behind Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and Ohio’s Hocking Hills, WFXR reports. Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge expects Southwest Virginia peak color roughly Oct. 24–Nov. 7, with higher elevations turning first.

Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026 · WFXR

Read at WFXR · USA Today 10Best

Around Town

Henry Street Heritage Festival fills Elmwood Park today

The Harrison Museum of African American Culture’s 35th Henry Street Heritage Festival runs Saturday about 1–10 p.m. at Elmwood Park, with music, crafts, food, and programming tied to the historic Henry Street corridor. Partners include Not Your Average Everything and The Humble Hustle Company.

Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026 · Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge

News

Carilion’s first public PAD screening draws a long Crystal Spring line

Carilion Clinic held its first public Peripheral Artery Disease screening Saturday at Crystal Spring Medical Office Building, offering free imaging as September marks PAD awareness month, WDBJ reports. Program manager Melissa Zimmerman said turnout topped expectations, with people lining up nearly an hour early, and more clinics are planned. Staff flagged smoking and diabetes among risk factors.

Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026 · WDBJ

Around Town

Back on the Rack hits 75% off Sunday at Salem Civic Center

The seasonal kids-and-family consignment sale runs through 1 p.m. Sunday at the Salem Civic Center, with remaining inventory dropping to 75% off, WDBJ reports. Unsold goods can move to a Charity Shop benefiting CHIP of Roanoke Valley, including infant and toddler essentials for enrolled families.

Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026 · WDBJ

City Hall

Salem’s Capt. Sean Slusser finishes FBI National Academy

Salem Police Capt. Sean Slusser graduated from the FBI National Academy’s 299th session in Quantico this week, the city said. The class counted 265 officers from 44 states, D.C., and international partners; Slusser is the department’s 12th academy graduate and has more than 23 years in policing, including 19 with Salem.

Friday, Sept. 18, 2026 · City of Salem

News

Roanoke County tourism spending hit about $141.7 million in 2025

Virginia Tourism Corporation figures cited by WSLS put Roanoke County visitor spending at about $141.7 million last year, up 7.1%, with 1,365 jobs supported plus roughly $40.8 million in labor income and $7.7 million in local tax revenue. County parks and tourism officials point to Explore Park, sports events, and work with Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge.

Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2026 · WSLS

Development

Public records fill in more on Clearview Dynamics and Wood Haven deal

WSLS reviewed filings on Clearview Dynamics LLC, the company named in Friday’s Wood Haven Technology Park purchase agreement near I-81/I-581 in Roanoke County. The firm formed in Delaware on Jan. 13, 2026, and registered to do business in Virginia on May 27, 2026; its listed Wilmington address is tied to CSC registered-agent services — a trail WSLS says does not prove end use or ultimate owners. Under the park’s ownership split, Roanoke City and Roanoke County each hold about 44% and Salem about 12%. Authority officials still describe an early due-diligence step, not a completed sale, and say they cannot confirm prospective use. Councilman Phazhon Nash has pressed for more transparency since Friday’s vote. Separately, a Roanoke County spokesperson told WDBJ the county signed an NDA that blocks disclosing the intended use; the county called the project an “appropriate use” of the park while declining specifics. Western Virginia Water Authority spokesperson Laura Schirmer told WDBJ she is unaware of Wood Haven developer talks and has no NDA there.

Thursday, Sept. 17, 2026 · WSLS

Read at WSLS · WDBJ on county NDA

Development

Clearview Dynamics named in Wood Haven Technology Park land deal

Cardinal News reports that Clearview Dynamics is the company linked to the Western Virginia Regional Industrial Facility Authority’s Friday agreement to sell land at Roanoke County’s Wood Haven Technology Park near I-81 and I-581. Officials describe an early due-diligence step, not a completed sale, and say they cannot confirm the end use. The roughly 111-acre park includes more than 50 acres of pad-ready ground. Roanoke Vice Mayor Terry McGuire and Councilman Phazhon Nash have said they oppose a data-center project there; at least 11 speakers objected to data centers at Friday’s meeting.

Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026 · Cardinal News

News

Carilion pushing proton therapy for the Taubman Cancer Center

Carilion Clinic is fundraising to add proton-beam radiation at the Carilion Taubman Cancer Center under construction in Roanoke, WFXR reports. Pediatric hematologist-oncologist Dr. Cathleen Cook said the beam is meant to stop in the tumor instead of passing through healthy tissue — a difference that can matter for children whose organs are still growing. Families now leave the region for that care. Carilion says it has raised $38.8 million toward a $50 million proton goal; officials expect the building finished late 2027 and patients in 2028.

Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026 · WFXR

News

Franklin County’s Kevin Siers to retire after 2026–27 school year

Franklin County superintendent Dr. Kevin Siers told the school board Monday that 2026–27 will be his last year leading the division, WFXR reports. He said he plans to file retirement papers this winter and move back to West Virginia with his wife to help his father with health issues. Siers has led Franklin County schools since 2023; he cited closing two elementary schools and cutting about 15% of staff among the hard calls of the job. Rocky Mount’s mayor thanked him for the year still ahead.

Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026 · WFXR

News

Carilion joins Civica to shore up shortage-prone drugs

Carilion Clinic has joined Civica — a nonprofit that works to keep essential generic medicines available — as a founding member, WFXR reports. System pharmacy director Chad Alvarez said the partnership opens Civica’s supply chain and lets Carilion help choose drugs that can be made in the United States when shortages hit. Civica started in 2018 with health systems and charities backing the model.

Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026 · WFXR

News

LOA sets Medicare counseling at Valley View for open enrollment

Medicare Open Enrollment begins Oct. 15. The Local Office on Aging will staff free VICAP counseling Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7 at Valley View Mall on the upper level outside the former Sears space, WDBJ reports. Walk-ins are welcome; appointments are preferred. The center is closed Fridays, major holidays, and Thanksgiving week. Call Delaine Caldwell at (540) 345-0451, option 1, to schedule.

Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026 · WDBJ

Development

VDOT sets Oct. 1 Bonsack meeting on Route 460 intersection work

VDOT and contractor Branch Civil will hold a “Pardon Our Dust” public meeting Thursday, Oct. 1, 5–7 p.m. at Bonsack Elementary (5437 Crumpacker Drive) about upcoming Route 460 (Challenger Avenue) and Route 220 Alternate (Cloverdale Road) construction in Roanoke County. Brief presentations run at 5:15 and 6:15 p.m. The projects rework intersections from Blue Hills Village Drive toward Avery Row with designs such as restricted crossing U-turns, thru-cuts, and a displaced left turn.

Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026 · VDOT

Read at VDOT

News

Roanoke College adds automatic $5,000 SWVA scholarship for fall 2027

Salem’s Roanoke College will auto-award a Southwest Virginia Scholars grant of $5,000 a year to incoming first-years from 24 counties and eight cities stretching from Botetourt to the tip of Southwest Virginia, starting fall 2027 — no income screen, no extra form. Stacked with VTAG, merit, and need-based aid, the college says highest-need students can reach free tuition.

Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026 · Roanoke College

Read at Roanoke College

News

I-81 southbound delays clear near mile marker 132 in Montgomery County

WFXR says traffic delays on I-81 southbound near mile marker 132 in Montgomery County had cleared by late Friday evening after an afternoon tractor-trailer crash. Earlier Friday, WSLS reported about a one-mile backup with traffic detoured at Exit 132; WFXR had described longer backups while lanes were closed near mile marker 128.8.

Friday, Sept. 11, 2026 · WFXR

Around Town

Storm window shifts Saturday kickoffs for area college teams

WSLS says scattered Saturday storms pushed several southwest Virginia college kickoffs earlier: Liberty vs. Gardner-Webb and James Madison vs. Wagner move to noon, VMI vs. Bucknell to 12:30 p.m., Washington & Lee to 5 p.m. at Gettysburg, and Ferrum to 11 a.m. at Shaw. Roanoke College still kicks at 2 p.m. in Salem against Greensboro; Virginia Tech vs. ODU stays at noon.

Friday, Sept. 11, 2026 · WSLS

Crime

Charges dropped in City Dogs kennel case after Norfolk Avenue SW fixes

Roanoke’s Commonwealth’s Attorney dropped five misdemeanor charges against City Dogs Boarding and Playcare manager Kevin Ketcham after the Norfolk Avenue SW kennel corrected July heat and care violations, WDBJ reports. Animal wardens had found indoor temperatures in the mid-80s to 90s with more than 70 dogs and limited water access; the business added AC, upgraded electrical, cut the daily dog count, and got licenses. No animals were seriously injured, the office said.

Friday, Sept. 11, 2026 · WDBJ

News

Botetourt Fire/EMS starts field whole-blood transfusions

Botetourt County Fire/EMS has launched a pre-hospital whole blood program so trained crews can transfuse in the field, WFXR reports. Assistant chief Jon Rodgers cited about 20-minute average runs to Roanoke or Salem trauma centers and said earlier transfusion improves survival; the county says few U.S. fire/EMS agencies have the capability. Low-titer O-positive blood is on one supervisor truck for now, with hopes to add a second if funding allows.

Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026 · WFXR

Crime

Grand jury indicts man in February double homicide in the 2000 block of Carroll Avenue NW

A Roanoke City grand jury on Sept. 8 returned eight felony indictments against Jamal Edward Crump in the Feb. 8 killings of Khireem Jerome Porter, 35, of Radford, and Jeffrie Lamont Meadows, 37, of Wytheville, found shot in a vehicle in the 2000 block of Carroll Avenue NW outside ReFreshing Church, police say. Charges include two counts of first-degree murder, robbery resulting in death, related firearm counts, and two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon; Crump remains at the Roanoke City Adult Detention Center, WSLS reports.

Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026 · WSLS

Crime

Two adults die in a two-alarm house fire in the 1400 block of Greenbrier Avenue SE

Roanoke Fire-EMS says two adults died in an overnight two-alarm fire reported at 2:44 a.m. Monday in the 1400 block of Greenbrier Avenue SE. Station 6 found a two-story home fully involved at 2:48 a.m.; crews worked defensive operations around downed power lines and partial collapse. Cause and origin are under investigation with the Fire Marshal’s Office, WFXR reports.

Monday, Sept. 7, 2026 · WFXR

Development

Council approves $8 million for 236 acres of the former Ole Monterey Golf Course

Roanoke City Council approved an $8 million purchase of 236 acres once tied to Ole Monterey Golf Course along Tinker Creek Lane NE, WFXR reports. City Manager Valmarie Turner said the land could support housing, a school campus, parks, or an expansion of the Roanoke Center for Industry and Technology. Valley Lands Inc. sold the parcels; the city says they are free of liens.

Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026 · WFXR

City Hall

Consultants tell council Roanoke planning is “busting at the seams”

A July 15 consultant report presented to City Council Tuesday says Roanoke’s planning department faces leadership gaps, pay that fails to hold trained staff, a vacancy rate that hit 36%, and a permitting system stakeholders called a “culture of no,” Cardinal News reports. More than 400 permits were in the pipeline when the work was done; Assistant City Manager Lavar Youmans said waits have since fallen from about 5–6 weeks to 1–2 weeks and the backlog from 337 to 215. Council took no action Tuesday.

Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026 · Cardinal News

City Hall

City gets $6.25 million HUD grant to expand Lead Safe Roanoke

The City of Roanoke says a $6.25 million HUD Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes grant will fund lead-paint remediation in as many as 150 homes over three years. Lead Safe Roanoke, which has already treated 559 homes, is taking rolling online applications for city residents in pre-1978 homes outside floodplains with a child age 5 or younger who meets income rules.

Monday, Sept. 8, 2026 · City of Roanoke

City Hall

Roanoke told residents about a May data breach in late August

Cardinal News reports the city mailed notice dated Aug. 24 after finding on or about May 11 that a malicious actor had accessed departmental data on May 6. The letter said names, Social Security numbers, passport numbers, and financial account information may have been reached; the city said it has no indication of misuse and reported the incident to the FBI.

Friday, Sept. 4, 2026 · Cardinal News

Schools

RCPS cut 148 jobs to close a $14 million gap

Roanoke City Public Schools finalized 148 eliminated positions after spring talk of about 170 cuts to balance a $14 million FY2027 deficit, Cardinal News reports. Sixty-four were teaching jobs across all 24 schools; 66 of the eliminated roles were filled when cut, and 13 of those people had been recalled into other vacancies as of Aug. 20.

Friday, Sept. 4, 2026 · Cardinal News

News

Roanoke stays clear and dry: near 38 tonight, a sunny Saturday near 63, and near 36 Saturday night

Alerts: NWS Blacksburg had no frost, freeze, or other alerts posted for the Roanoke area. The latest NWS outlook, issued at 4:46 a.m. Friday, does not mention frost; it expects no hazardous weather today, tonight, or from Saturday through Thursday. No frost or freeze alert had been posted for today or tonight as of about 7:25 a.m. Friday. No flood watches or warnings are in effect for the Roanoke area. The New River at Allisonia, in Pulaski and Wythe counties, stayed below the 8-foot flood stage and was below 2 feet around 6:30 a.m. Friday. Power: the early Friday outage that left about 705 Bedford County customers in the dark had cleared by about 7:23 a.m., well ahead of the utility's 9:30 p.m. estimate. At that point the Appalachian Power outage map showed no customers out in Bedford, Campbell, Roanoke County, Franklin, Floyd, Pulaski, Botetourt, or Montgomery, or in the city of Roanoke or Salem. Rain total: the Roanoke airport measured about 4 inches from 3:25 p.m. Oct. 10 until a break around 1:51 p.m. Oct. 11. A trained spotter just northwest of Salem estimated about 5 inches. Forecast: the NWS point forecast for Roanoke was last updated about 3 p.m. Friday. The Blacksburg office's 3:02 p.m. zone forecast calls for a mostly clear night with lows in the upper 30s, a sunny Saturday around 60, upper 30s again Saturday night, and a sunny Sunday in the mid 60s. The office's 1:08 p.m. discussion keeps high pressure in charge through the middle of next week, with cooler air from the Northeast wedging in starting tonight: highs in the 60s and 70s, lows in the 30s and 40s, no rain expected through at least the end of next week, and rain unlikely for the rest of October. The airport has stayed dry since its last light rain ended just before noon Saturday; around 5:54 p.m. Friday skies there were clear, near 64 degrees, with 10-mile visibility and a light east-northeast wind. Tonight: mostly clear, low around 38, with a light southeast wind. Saturday: sunny, high near 63, with a light northeast wind. Saturday night: mostly clear, low around 36. River: the Roanoke River at Roanoke was steady near 1 foot around 5:50 p.m. Friday. That is below the 6-foot action stage and well below the 10-foot flood stage. No weather closings or delays found in the Roanoke Valley.

Friday, Oct. 23, 2026 · NWS Blacksburg

Read at NWS Blacksburg · NWS Blacksburg alerts · NWS outlook · Roanoke River gauge · Appalachian Power outages

News

Drought eases across the Roanoke Valley after weekend rain

The U.S. Drought Monitor map dated Oct. 13 shows less intense drought in Roanoke city and county and in nearby Botetourt, Montgomery, and Bedford counties after last weekend's rain, WSET reports. County data from the monitor show Roanoke County's share under moderate drought (D1) fell from full coverage a week earlier to a much smaller slice. More rain is still needed, and the near-term forecast stays mostly dry.

Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026 · WSET, U.S. Drought Monitor

Read at WSET · U.S. Drought Monitor

Schools

Virginia Tech board makes it official: Richard Linton is the 17th president

Virginia Tech's Board of Visitors on Wednesday appointed Kansas State University President Richard Linton as the university's 17th president, Virginia Tech News reports. WSLS says the vote was unanimous. Linton earned all three of his degrees at Tech, a biology bachelor's and two food science degrees. He starts at the beginning of the 2027 spring semester, and Tim Sands stays in the job until then. Linton has led Kansas State since 2022 and was an agriculture dean at North Carolina State before that.

Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026 · Virginia Tech News, WSLS, WSET

Read at Virginia Tech News · Also at WSLS · Also at WSET

Around Town

The Lampstand’s Night of Hope gala set for Oct. 24 at Hotel Roanoke

The Lampstand, a Roanoke nonprofit that supports survivors of human trafficking, holds its Night of Hope fundraiser on Saturday, Oct. 24, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at The Hotel Roanoke on Shenandoah Avenue NE. The evening includes an auction, and WDBJ reports people who can’t attend may still get a chance to bid. Executive director Rebecca Bruno previewed the event on WDBJ’s afternoon show.

Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026 · WDBJ

Crime

Salem police charge a man after a shooting on Lynchburg Turnpike

Salem police say officers went to the 1600 block of Lynchburg Turnpike after a shots-fired call at 1:22 p.m. Friday. They found a man shot in the leg area, and he was taken to LewisGale Medical Center. Police say an argument led to the shooting and the other man was still at the scene. Keeley Terrell Thacker, 30, of Salem, is charged with malicious wounding, use of a firearm in a felony, and firing a gun in city limits. He is held at the Roanoke County-Salem Jail. Police call it an isolated incident with no danger to the public, WSLS and WDBJ report.

Friday, Oct. 23, 2026 · WSLS

Read at WSLS · WDBJ · WFXR

City Hall

Salem's downtown Main Street roadwork now runs through at least Nov. 6

The City of Salem says storm drain work on Main Street between Market and Broad streets will last until at least Nov. 6, later than planned. The city says crews are digging deep under the road, and that depth requires added reinforcement of the infrastructure. Supplier and equipment delivery problems have also slowed the job. Crews still need to finish installing the storm drains and repave the street, the city says.

Friday, Oct. 23, 2026 · City of Salem

Events

Free trading card show sets up at the Salem Civic Center on Saturday

Collectors and dealers can buy, sell, and swap cards at the 540 Card Show at the Salem Civic Center, WDBJ reports. The show runs Saturday, Oct. 24, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and there is no charge to get in. Casey Taylor, founder of Cards on Deck, talked about the event on WDBJ.

Friday, Oct. 23, 2026 · WDBJ

News

Appalachian Power seeks no rate increase for 2027, slight increase for 2028

Headline and link only — we do not reprint that outlet.

Friday, Oct. 23, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

News

Smoke in a tool room briefly clears the Roanoke airport terminal Friday morning

Travelers and workers at Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport had to step out of the terminal and concourse for about 15 minutes Friday morning, WFXR reports. Airport officials say smoke turned up around 9:15 a.m. in a tool room below the concourse. They say no fire was found, and everyone was allowed back inside by about 9:30 a.m.

Friday, Oct. 23, 2026 · WFXR

Around Town

Roanoke Valley SPCA drops adoption fees for every pet through Oct. 31

Anyone hoping to bring home a dog, cat, puppy, or kitten can skip the adoption fee at the Roanoke Valley SPCA for the rest of October, WSET reports. The shelter says an ASPCA grant, tied to its Rescue Effect campaign and the Subaru Loves Pets program, is paying those costs. Shelter leaders say each adoption also frees up room and care for the next animal that comes in. Visitors can stop by the shelter to meet the animals, and meet-and-greets can be set up ahead of time.

Friday, Oct. 23, 2026 · WSET

Read at WSLS · Virginia Department of Elections

City Hall

Voting Nov. 3? Several precincts around the region have new polling places

A number of polling places across the region have moved in the last two years, so election officials suggest voters confirm where they cast ballots before Nov. 3, WSLS reports. In Roanoke County, the Hollins precinct votes at North Roanoke Baptist Church on Peters Creek Road while Hollins Library is under construction. Franklin County moved two precincts after older elementary schools closed. Henry now votes at the Henry Community Center, and Burnt Chimney votes at the Smith Mountain Lake YMCA. In Bedford County, Precinct 604 moved to Bedford Elementary School and Precinct 704 to Bedford Church of God. Lynchburg and Rockbridge County have new sites too. Voters can look up their registration, polling place, and sample ballot on the state Department of Elections website.

Friday, Oct. 23, 2026 · WSLS

Schools

Virginia Supreme Court takes up Roanoke County homeschool sports case

A Roanoke County family's fight to get their homeschooled son onto a public high school team is headed to the state's top court. WSLS reports the Supreme Court of Virginia agreed on Oct. 20 to hear the family's case against the Virginia High School League and the Roanoke County School Board. The tenth-grader wants to run cross country and track for his local high school, but league rules limit play to students enrolled at member schools. The family says the ban breaks state religious-freedom protections. The appeal targets a Roanoke Circuit Court ruling that refused a preliminary injunction, which would have let him compete while the suit goes on. The league has said it will defend the rule. Oral arguments are set for March 2027.

Friday, Oct. 23, 2026 · WSLS

Read at WSLS · Roanoke Times: Roanoke County family takes lawsuit against VHSL to Supreme Court of Virginia

City Hall

Roanoke and Salem council money leaders share ties to one consulting firm

The top fundraisers in this fall's Roanoke and Salem council races are both linked to i77 Strategies, a political consulting firm, Cardinal News reports. In Salem, independent Jeffrey Hoeflich-Nickels, who co-owns the firm, has raised more than $38,000, which tops his four rivals combined, based on Virginia Public Access Project figures from Oct. 21. About $30,000 of his total comes from a loan to his own campaign plus a contribution from the firm. In Roanoke, Republican Amanda Marko, an i77 client, has raised about $50,500, the most of any candidate in either city; her filings list a $4,275 consulting payment to the firm. Independent Stephanie Moon Reynolds is next in Roanoke at nearly $24,000. Salem voters fill two seats and Roanoke voters fill three.

Friday, Oct. 23, 2026 · Cardinal News

Crime

Prosecutors tally about 150 fugitive arrests in Roanoke from a joint spring sweep

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Virginia has put out its first annual report on Project Safe Neighborhoods, a Justice Department program that teams federal, state, and local police, WDBJ reports. Officials say more than 400 fugitives across the district were taken into custody, about 150 of them in Roanoke. They also say the work seized more than 70 pounds of drugs and several guns. Roanoke police call their part Operation Combined Resolve, a multi-day push in May. Prosecutors say they meet regularly with Roanoke, Salem, Vinton, and state police to choose the next targets.

Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026 · WDBJ

City Hall

Seven candidates run for three Roanoke City Council seats

Three council seats are on the Nov. 3 ballot, and seven people want them, WSLS reports. Vivian Sanchez-Jones is the only incumbent. She and fellow Democrats Danny Clawson and Raekwon Moore face Republican Amanda Marko and three independents: Kathy Cohen, Stephanie Moon-Reynolds, and former mayor David Bowers. Schools, public safety, housing, and the city budget top most platforms. The field splits on an entertainment district and on whether a casino belongs in Roanoke. Bowers lists fixing up the Roanoke Star among his first goals. Early voting runs through Oct. 31 at the city registrar's office on Kimball Avenue.

Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026 · WSLS

Events

Zoo Boo, a Spot on Kirk show, and a Berglund comic fill the weekend

Costumes are encouraged at Mill Mountain Zoo, where Zoo Boo runs Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with trick-or-treating, crafts, vendors, and a costume contest, WDBJ reports. Day-of tickets cost $13 to $15. On Friday at 7:30 p.m., Hank, Pattie & The Current share a bill with Redbud at The Spot on Kirk, for $15 ahead or $20 at the door. Comedian Brad Williams brings his Tall Tales tour to the Berglund Center Performing Arts Theatre Sunday at 7 p.m., with seats from about $39.

Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026 · WDBJ

Food & Drink

A former Pulaski County running back now runs a barbecue trailer

Kirk Hendricks set a rushing record at Pulaski County High in 1989. These days he and his son smoke brisket, chicken, and pork for Kirk's Famous Smoked BBQ, a food trailer that moves around Southwest Virginia, WDBJ reports. He started it after leaving law enforcement in 2022. Fans point to the mac bowl and a layered dish he calls a BBQ sundae. The truck has no fixed address; its weekly stops are posted on its social media pages.

Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026 · WDBJ

Events

Free Dr Pepper Day festival fills Dr Pepper Park on Saturday

Roanoke's favorite soda gets its own holiday, and this year Oct. 24 lands on a Saturday. WFXR says Dr Pepper Park will host music, games, and food and craft vendors from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with free Dr Pepper and T-shirts until they run out. Admission is free. Mayor Joe Cobb is set to read a proclamation at 2 p.m. Bags must be clear. Park owner Waynette Anderson says this is the 12th year of the party.

Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026 · WFXR

Around Town

Roanoke wildlife center takes in two orphaned bobcat kittens

The Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center in Roanoke is caring for two newborn bobcat kittens, WDBJ reports. A construction crew knocked down the tree that sheltered their den. Staff waited hours for the mother to come back before taking them in. The kittens arrived with their eyes still closed and are on formula for now. The center puts the cost of their care and a remodeled enclosure at more than $40,000 before a planned release next spring, and it is asking for donations.

Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026 · WDBJ

Around Town

Feeding Southwest Virginia marks 45 years as CEO Pam Irvine prepares to retire

Feeding Southwest Virginia, the food bank based in Salem, held a 45th anniversary event Thursday, WFIR reports. The nonprofit serves 26 counties and nine cities and now moves more than 20 million pounds of food a year. The day also honored President and CEO Pam Irvine, who has led it since the start and plans to retire at the end of the year. Its Community Solutions Center on Melrose Avenue will add her name. U.S. Reps. Ben Cline and Morgan Griffith attended, along with Feeding America CEO Denis McDonough.

Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026 · WFIR

Schools

No lockdown at William Byrd schools, Roanoke County dispatch says

There was no lockdown Thursday morning at William Byrd Middle and High schools, a Roanoke County dispatch spokesperson told WFIR. People near the campus had heard emergency sirens, and a nearby daycare kept its children inside. School resource officers confirmed nothing was wrong at the schools. They said fire alarms were tested that morning, and dispatch said a driver's education session may also have been going on.

Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026 · WFIR

Schools

Roanoke College dedicates its $60 million McConnon Discovery Center

Roanoke College formally dedicated the McConnon Discovery Center, its new science and math building, Thursday afternoon, according to WFIR. The 32,000-square-foot building opened for classes when the fall semester began. It holds teaching labs, classrooms, and shared lab space, and a raised walkway links it to another campus building. More than 1,000 donors gave toward it. Alum Shaun McConnon gave $20 million, the largest single gift in the college's history.

Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026 · WFIR

Food & Drink

Spice Titan opens a shop at Five Points in southwest Roanoke

Spice Titan, a Roanoke seasoning maker known from area farmers markets, now has its own store at the Five Points intersection on Maple Avenue SW, WFXR reports. Owner Matt Rose says his blends skip preservatives, MSG, and added sugar. The shop also stocks herbs, bulk spices, and gourmet gifts. The Roanoke Regional Chamber held a ribbon cutting there Wednesday morning.

Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026 · WFXR

Development

Keagy Towns adds 24 townhomes off Keagy Road near LewisGale

ABoone Real Estate and builder Ryan Homes held a ribbon cutting Wednesday morning for Keagy Towns, WFIR reports. The 24 townhomes are under construction on Medmont Circle at Keagy Road, near LewisGale Hospital. Homes will have three to five bedrooms and one- or two-car garages, and some will have basements. Prices run from about $350,000 into the low $400,000s.

Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026 · WFIR

News

State warns EBT cardholders about fake 'card declined' texts and calls

Virginia's Department of Social Services says scammers are reaching EBT cardholders by text and phone, WSLS reports. The messages say a card was declined over suspicious activity and push people to confirm their card details. The agency says not to reply and not to call the number back. If you already answered or shared information, call the official EBT customer service line at 1-866-281-2448.

Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026 · WSLS

Crime

Warrant: Woman at illicit massage parlor in Roanoke County 'tricked' into working

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Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

News

Franklin County supervisors hear data center panel; no project is pending

Franklin County supervisors held an informational work session on data centers this week, with no vote and no proposal in front of the board, WDBJ and WSLS report. Speakers covered water, power, noise, and tax deals. The head of the Western Virginia Water Authority said groundwater can't support a large facility here, putting local supply at about a million gallons a day. Mecklenburg County's administrator said localities now have more leverage than his county did years ago. Some residents called the panel one-sided and asked the board for more openness. The session follows a stopped data center proposal at Summit View Business Park.

Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026 · WDBJ

Read at WDBJ · WSLS

News

Data center critics rally in Grandin, asking for a pause on new projects

Protesters lined the Grandin Road and Memorial Avenue corner in Roanoke on Wednesday to push for a halt to new data center projects and more openness from the officials who approve them, WSET reports. Their worries centered on power and water demand and what the build-out could mean for electric bills. They said they want the state to add protections and share more about impacts before signing off on more sites. The rally came as grading continues on Google's 312-acre data center site in Botetourt County.

Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026 · WSET

News

Roanoke College's Phil Benne reaches 400 wins in women's soccer

Phil Benne, who has coached Roanoke College women's soccer in Salem for close to 40 years, picked up career win No. 400 when the Maroons beat Averett on Tuesday night, WDBJ reports. He is a five-time ODAC Coach of the Year, has won several conference titles, and has taken the team to the NCAA Tournament three times. He also spent 23 years running the men's tennis program, where he won 155 matches.

Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026 · WDBJ

Around Town

Perry F. Kendig Arts and Culture Awards return for 41st year to honor regional artists

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Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

Development

Roanoke airport lays out terminal overhaul with a bigger security checkpoint

Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport is preparing to rework its nearly 40-year-old terminal, WSLS reports. The TSA checkpoint would move into what is now office space, going from two lanes to as many as four. Checked bags would be screened out of sight, so travelers no longer carry luggage to a scanner themselves. New escalators and more food and seating past security are also in the plan. Executive Director Mike Stewart puts the likely total at $65 million to $70 million. The airport counted a record 827,000 passengers in 2025.

Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026 · WSLS

Schools

Roanoke County cuts the ribbon on its new Career and Technology Center

Roanoke County Public Schools held a ribbon cutting Wednesday for its new Career and Technology Center on Peters Creek Road, which replaces the Burton Center for Arts and Technology, WDBJ reports. The two-story building has large lab classrooms, a commercial kitchen, plumbing labs, cosmetology space, and garages sized for diesel trucks. Students start classes there in January. HVAC, collision repair, and dental assisting programs are set to begin next school year.

Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026 · WDBJ

City Hall

Vinton traffic count finds most westbound Cleveland Avenue drivers over 25 mph

A six-day Town of Vinton traffic count logged about 9,500 drivers near East Cleveland Avenue and South Poplar Street, and nearly 70% of westbound drivers on Cleveland were over the 25 mph limit, WDBJ reports. About 7% were 10 mph or more over. The town still plans temporary speed cushions and flashing speed-limit signs there by Oct. 30, with another count afterward. Town leaders say VDOT engineers advised against a four-way stop. Vinton police say they have added patrols at the spot.

Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026 · WDBJ

Around Town

Teens run the room at the Great Debate, Sunday, Oct. 25, at the Dumas Center

The Roanoke Valley chapter of Jack and Jill of America is holding its yearly Great Debate, a forum where teens lead the talk on issues they care about, WDBJ reports. It starts at 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25, at the Dumas Center, 100 Henry St. in Roanoke. Adults are welcome to listen.

Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026 · WDBJ

News

Clean out the medicine cabinet: drug take-back day is Saturday, Oct. 24

Police and sheriff's offices around the region plan to take part in the federal Drug Enforcement Administration's twice-yearly prescription drug take-back day this Saturday, Oct. 24, WDBJ reports. People can drop off unused or expired prescription and over-the-counter medicines so they do not get misused. The DEA says its April round gathered more than 320 tons of medicine nationwide. Drop-off sites can be found through the DEA's online locator.

Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026 · WDBJ

Development

Salem will cover half of a small business's equipment buy, up to $5,000

Salem's Economic Development Authority has set up a matching grant to help small businesses buy equipment, the city says. A winning business gets back half the cost, with a cap of $5,000. To qualify, a for-profit firm must sit inside Salem city limits, have 2 to 25 full-time workers, have operated locally for more than a year, and be current on licenses and taxes. Applications open Nov. 5 and close Dec. 15, and awards are expected in February. The money can go toward machinery, tools, furniture, office gear, or computer hardware. City staff pitch it partly as help for owners who struggle to hire.

Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026 · City of Salem

City Hall

City sets a free summit for would-be and current small-business owners Oct. 29

Roanoke is hosting its Mayor's Business Summit on Thursday, Oct. 29, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Whitman Auditorium at Virginia Western Community College, 3099 Colonial Ave. SW, the city says. It is free and aimed at people with a business idea as well as owners already up and running. Expect a resource fair, panels, and a keynote from Bruce Bryan of the Roanoke marketing firm 5Points Creative. Breakfast and lunch are included. Online sign-up runs until noon Wednesday, Oct. 28, and walk-in registration opens at 8 a.m. that morning. The city is partnering with Virginia Western and the regional Small Business Development Center.

Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026 · City of Roanoke

News

State flags 2,600-plus gun cases for review after a missed test at its Roanoke lab

Virginia's Department of Forensic Science has told prosecutors and police that more than 2,600 firearm comparison cases handled by two former examiners at its Western Laboratory in Roanoke should be considered for a second look, The Roanoke Star reports, citing VPM News. The trouble traces to an early-2024 proficiency test in which a firearms supervisor got one of four sample items wrong. An outside firm has returned 89 of the 105 files sent so far; the agency says it reworked at least four of them and changed the results in two. No finish date has been set.

Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026 · The Roanoke Star

Read at The Roanoke Star

Around Town

Sheriff's office hosts a free autism and Blue Envelope community day Saturday

The Roanoke City Sheriff's Office is holding a free, open-to-all event on autism and Virginia's Blue Envelope Program, the 2025 state law meant to make traffic stops and other encounters with officers go more smoothly for people with autism or other communication challenges. Families, caregivers, teachers, advocates, service groups, and public-safety staff are all invited. It runs Saturday, Oct. 24, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Berglund Center, WDBJ reports.

Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026 · WDBJ

City Hall

Salem council candidates are mostly still sizing up data center growth

Cardinal News asked the five people running for two Salem City Council seats about data centers, and most say they are still forming a view. Salem has no open land zoned for one. But the city owns a bit over 11% of the Wood Haven Technology Park site at I-81 and I-581, which a regional authority voted in September to start selling to a data center developer. Incumbent Hunter Holliday says he is undecided and wants more research. Mark Henrickson calls it a regional question. J.D. Taylor says replacing lost factory jobs comes first. A.J. Harpold says the city cannot ignore it, and Jeffrey Hoeflich-Nickels worries about water and power use during a drought. Election Day is Nov. 3, and early voting is underway.

Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026 · Cardinal News

News

Two more Covington mill workers treated; cause of symptoms still unknown

A hospital spokesperson told WDBJ that two more people from the Smurfit Westrock mill in Covington were treated within a 24-hour span and released, less than a week after 16 contractors were checked for nausea and mild symptoms. What caused the symptoms is still not known. The company told WDBJ there is no confirmed hydrogen sulfide leak at the plant. WDBJ says federal records show an OSHA inspection of the mill that opened in July is still active, and that OSHA is still looking into last week's incident.

Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026 · WDBJ

News

Flashers switch on Thursday at two Route 220 crossings in Franklin County

VDOT plans to turn on new overhead flashing lights Thursday morning, Oct. 22, where Route 220, the Virgil Goode Highway, meets Pleasant Breeze Road and Commonwealth Parkway in Franklin County, WSET reports. Drivers on 220 in both directions get a flashing yellow, a cue to go through with care. Drivers on the two side roads get a flashing red and must come to a full stop before pulling onto the highway. The point is to warn highway traffic about cars turning on and off. VDOT says it will keep watching traffic there and plans to switch both spots to full signals once volumes call for it.

Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026 · WSET

City Hall

Roanoke council OKs rezoning for two Old Southwest developments

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Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

Development

Roanoke eyeing spring start to Wiley Drive bridge replacement

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Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

Schools

Franklin County pushes for 1% sales tax

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Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

News

Recent rains give Smith Mountain Lake some relief

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Monday, Oct. 19, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

News

Rasoul earns law degree, hired by Roanoke firm, on top of legislative duties

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Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

News

Carilion breaks ground on a Daleville medical center for Botetourt County

Carilion Clinic and its partners held a groundbreaking Tuesday for a new medical building on Market Ridge Lane in Daleville, WSLS reports. The plan calls for emergency care and specialty care to serve Botetourt County and nearby areas. Local leaders tied the project to the county's growth. The WSLS report did not give an opening date.

Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026 · WSLS

News

Radford University adds chapter-wide reviews to its Greek life rules

Radford University changed its Greek Life Handbook so a whole fraternity or sorority chapter gets its own review when a Title IX or student conduct case finds a member committed a serious violation, such as sexual misconduct, hazing or violence. The review looks at whether the chapter helped, allowed or hid the conduct, and sanctions could go as far as suspension or removal. WDBJ reports the change follows reporting on two women's allegations against members of two fraternities.

Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026 · WDBJ

News

Special Olympics Big Feet Meet fills William Fleming with student-athletes

Hundreds of students from schools across the Roanoke Valley spent Tuesday at William Fleming High School for the yearly Special Olympics Virginia Big Feet Meet. WSLS has video from the day.

Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026 · WSLS

News

MELD Print Works plans a second Montgomery County building for bigger metal printers

MELD Print Works, which has about 50 workers in Montgomery County, is putting up a building of nearly 12,000 square feet to hold larger metal 3D printers, with a move-in planned for next year. WDBJ reports the company is still working out how many jobs the expansion will add. Its parts go to aerospace and defense customers.

Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026 · WDBJ

Crime

Man gets time served for fatal hit-and-run on Williamson Rd

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Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

Food & Drink

New Belgium Brewing set to open in Daleville

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Monday, Oct. 19, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

Food & Drink

Lake couple to renovate brewery into a Nashville-themed destination

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Monday, Oct. 19, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

Around Town

Raleigh Court library's zine club gives Roanoke teens a weekly hour to make their own mini magazines

The Raleigh Court Branch Library runs a zine club for teens and young people, WSLS reports. Zines are small handmade booklets that tell a story, and club members make their own. Youth services librarian Liv Sampogna began the club four years ago. She told WSLS she wanted teens to have somewhere to go after school and make things their own way. The group meets Mondays from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., and newcomers are welcome. Paper, it turns out, is still a medium.

Monday, Oct. 19, 2026 · WSLS

Development

After a year of Roanoke restaurant closures, the city's development chief points to the next tenants

Rising costs have been hard on local business owners, Roanoke economic development head Marc Nelson and Mayor Joe Cobb told WDBJ. The past year brought closures such as Tuco's Taqueria and Beamer's 25. Nelson said new tenants are on the way. He named the Sunbeam Lofts in the West End, which he said will open soon, and said the former Beamer Society spot will become Buddy Ray's. Work has started inside the old Tuco's building for a new business. Cobb said landing a new business can hinge on relationships, financing, investors, and timing. The city's Economic Development Authority offers grants and incentives to help businesses buy equipment, expand, and cover capital costs.

Monday, Oct. 19, 2026 · WDBJ

City Hall

Roanoke takes another $300,000 state grant for its yearly traffic safety push, set to start in spring 2027

Roanoke City Council on Monday accepted a $300,000 highway safety grant from the state Department of Motor Vehicles, WDBJ reports, citing a city release. The money pays for the city's yearly traffic safety awareness campaign. The city's goal is 20% fewer traffic injuries and deaths than in 2025. Roanoke has now won this grant eight times. Past rounds paid for campaigns like Slow Your Roll and Change Lanes to Pass. The effort ties into the city's Vision Zero program, which targets preventable injuries, especially to people on foot. The new campaign is set to begin in spring 2027.

Monday, Oct. 19, 2026 · WDBJ · City of Roanoke

Read at WDBJ · City of Roanoke

City Hall

Bedford County registrar hears from voters whose mailed absentee ballots never arrived

Some Bedford County voters who asked for absentee ballots say they still do not have them, WSET reports. General Registrar Rebecca Brown told the station her office has taken a fair number of calls about ballots mailed when early voting began in September, and many of the reports come from the Forest area. The Postal Service told WSET it sees no current delivery delays in Forest and has had no complaints about missing ballots. Brown asks anyone still waiting to call the registrar's office. Voters can also vote in person, or ask for a replacement ballot. The deadline to apply for an absentee ballot is this Friday, Oct. 23.

Monday, Oct. 19, 2026 · WSET

Around Town

Free rabies shots and $5 checkups: Angels of Assisi sets up a pet clinic at the Berglund Center Saturday

Angels of Assisi is holding its fourth yearly Pet Health Fair at the Berglund Center this Saturday, Oct. 24, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., WSLS reports. Rabies shots for dogs, cats, and ferrets cost nothing, and so do the DHPP shot for dogs and the FVRCP shot for cats. Most services need a $5 wellness exam first. A microchip or a nail trim runs $15, and flea and tick treatments run $10 to $25. No appointment is needed. If you want the three-year rabies shot, bring proof of an earlier one. Your cat will not thank you, but its paperwork will be in order.

Monday, Oct. 19, 2026 · WSLS

Around Town

Blue Ridge Folklife Festival is back at Ferrum College on Saturday

Ferrum College hosts the Blue Ridge Folklife Festival this Saturday, Oct. 24, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., WDBJ reports. The day brings Appalachian music on four stages, storytelling, traditional craftspeople, food vendors, and things for kids to do. Getting in is free, though parking costs extra. Orchestra Appalachia, the college's Appalachian music ensemble, gave WDBJ viewers a preview.

Monday, Oct. 19, 2026 · WDBJ

City Hall

Vinton drops CodeRED for a new emergency alert service, and wants residents to sign up again

The Town of Vinton has started a new notification system called Vinton Alerts, run on Everbridge, WDBJ reports. It takes over from CodeRED. The town plans to use it for storms, flooding, utility and road problems, public safety incidents, and routine town notices, sent by text, phone call, or email. Anyone who signed up for CodeRED should register again on the town's Vinton Alerts page to set their contact details and choices. The town says the calls come from 540-900-1757.

Monday, Oct. 19, 2026 · WDBJ · Town of Vinton

Read at WDBJ · Town of Vinton

Around Town

Free adoptions at the Bedford County Animal Shelter through December, thanks to an anonymous donor

Bedford County said Monday that an unnamed donor has covered adoption fees for every animal at the county shelter through the end of 2026, WSLS reports. The shelter has run close to full for most of the year, and cats and kittens have been arriving in larger numbers lately. County officials say the donor knew about the crowding and hopes waiving the fee moves more pets into homes. If a cat has been on the wish list, the price just dropped to zero.

Monday, Oct. 19, 2026 · WSLS

Crime

Two charged after Bedford County safe theft, deputies say

Bedford County deputies say Travis Scott Branham and Tiffany Ann Lester were arrested and charged in a burglary reported Oct. 10 in the 2000 block of Trents Ferry Road. The homeowner said a safe with about $100,000 in jewelry and other valuables was taken. Investigators, with help from Amherst County deputies, served a search warrant Oct. 16 at a Madison Heights home. Branham is charged with breaking and entering a dwelling, grand larceny, and obtaining money by false pretenses. Lester is charged with obtaining money by false pretenses and two counts of accessory after the fact. Both are held at the Blue Ridge Regional Jail, WSLS reports.

Monday, Oct. 19, 2026 · WSLS

Around Town

Q99 morning voice David Page signs off for good in December

David Page, the Dave in Q99's long-running Dick & Dave morning show, is retiring after 35 years in broadcasting, WSLS reports. His last full-time shift on WSLQ is set for Friday, Dec. 11. Page got into radio after 10 years in the Army, joined the station in 1991, spent a short stint in Raleigh, and has been back on Q99 mornings since 2000. He and co-host Dick Daniels have raised more than $3 million for Children's Miracle Network through their yearly Miracle Day drive. His retirement plan includes painting, reading, travel, and more time with a rescue beagle named Penelope. Morning drive will need a new alarm clock.

Monday, Oct. 19, 2026 · WSLS

Around Town

Volunteers map 177 sightings of Bandit, a shy stray roaming from Buchanan toward Moneta

Two local women have charted 177 reported sightings of a black-and-white stray they call Bandit, Cardinal News reports, with the earliest possible sighting going back to October 2025. They hope to set up feeding stations, keep him in one place, and trap him for a permanent home. Sightings have gone quiet since late September. If you spot him, the volunteers ask that you not chase him or call animal control, which can push him farther off, and instead report where you saw him and which way he was headed through the Facebook group Help Find 'Bandit' the Dog. He has reportedly been caught eating from a bird feeder, so he is resourceful.

Monday, Oct. 19, 2026 · Cardinal News

News

Power outage shuts the Bedford County animal shelter for Saturday

Bedford County officials told WSET the county animal shelter will stay closed the rest of Saturday, Oct. 17, because it lost power. The Falling Creek waste convenience center is still taking trash, but without power it cannot run its compactor, so it will shut once the dumpster is full. There was no estimate for when power would return.

Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 · WSET

Development

Was a Botetourt planning commission properly noticed? Here's what the county told us

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Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

News

Salem early voting runs just behind last year's pace, adds two Sundays

Salem's general registrar told WDBJ that 2,253 people had voted early in person and 510 mail ballots had come back, which leaves the city 34 voters short of where it stood at this point before last November's governor's race. Salem polls will also open for early voting the next two Sundays, the first time the city has offered Sunday voting. Election Day is Nov. 3.

Friday, Oct. 16, 2026 · WDBJ

Read at VDH Roanoke Health District · WDBJ

News

VDH confirms rabies in a cat near 11th Street NW in Roanoke

The Roanoke City and Alleghany Health Districts say a cat collected Oct. 9 near 11th Street NW and Moorman Avenue NW in northwest Roanoke tested positive for rabies. Anyone who knows of possible human or animal contact with it should call RCAHD Environmental Health or Roanoke City Animal Control. WDBJ also reported the case.

Friday, Oct. 16, 2026 · Virginia Department of Health

Crime

Man gets five years to serve for manslaughter in 2024 Salem truck death

A judge on Friday sentenced Jeremy Christopher Williams to 20 years in prison with 15 suspended, leaving five years to serve, WSET reports. Williams was convicted in June of manslaughter in the 2024 death of his girlfriend, Ashley Marie Gearhart, who was struck by his truck in Salem. He had first been charged with second-degree murder.

Friday, Oct. 16, 2026 · WSET

Food & Drink

Wasena City Tap Room wraps up its run after Saturday night

After about 14 years in southwest Roanoke, Wasena City Tap Room planned to lock up for good at 10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17, according to a Facebook post covered by WDBJ. It kept regular hours through its last weekend. WDBJ reported no reason for the closing.

Friday, Oct. 16, 2026 · WDBJ

Development

Google is evaluating Wood Haven Technology Park for a data center, WVRIFA says

The Western Virginia Regional Industrial Facility Authority said Friday that Google, working through Clearview Dynamics, is the company weighing Wood Haven Technology Park near the I-81 and I-581 junction in Roanoke County as a possible data center site. Google says it is still in due diligence and will keep the community updated; that review is expected to run through March 2027, and there is no deal to build yet. Roanoke County Administrator Richard Caywood told WDBJ it would likely be the biggest industrial project in county history, and told WSLS Google should know in about 180 days whether to go ahead. Some neighbors in Whitney Estates, across Woodhaven Road, have put up yard signs against it over health and noise worries, WSLS reports. WDBJ reports the site would draw water from Spring Hollow Reservoir and sits about 14 miles from Google’s Botetourt campus.

Friday, Oct. 16, 2026 · WSLS · WDBJ

Read at WSLS · WSLS follow-up · WDBJ

Development

Vinton wants a hotel or mixed-use project on its downtown fire site

The Town of Vinton is asking developers to pitch either a boutique hotel or a mix of shops and homes for the empty corner at Lee Avenue and Pollard Street, Cardinal News reports. A July 2022 fire there wiped out the old DR Music building, four apartments and a former Edward Jones office. The town has gathered the five parcels, just under a fifth of an acre, for $450,000 in all, and paid for surveys and concept plans with a federal EPA brownfields grant. Town officials told Cardinal News the grant does not mean the land is contaminated. Separately, Vinton's first hotel, an Extended Stay America, is expected to finish in November and open in December, the town told Cardinal News.

Friday, Oct. 16, 2026 · Cardinal News

Development

21 groups want a new comment period and a hearing on Google’s Botetourt permit

Twenty-one environmental organizations sent the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers an Oct. 9 letter seeking a fresh look at the federal permit for Google’s planned data center campus in Botetourt County, WSLS reports. They want newer project documents made public, at least 30 more days of comment, and a hearing in the county before any decision. The groups cite a mitigation plan and revised stream figures filed after comment closed April 9, plus state DEQ notes that questioned the stream-impact numbers. The letter asks for more review; it does not claim a specific violation.

Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026 · WSLS

Development

Montgomery supervisors hold off on 349-home Elliston plan until Oct. 26

Montgomery County supervisors voted unanimously Tuesday night to put off a decision on Stateson Homes' plan for 225 single-family homes and 124 townhomes on about 263 acres of the Fotheringay property in Elliston, Cardinal News reports. Elliston has about 855 residents, and the project could add more than 1,000. Most of the 33 people who spoke at the hearing were against it, many citing traffic and rural character. County staff say it would be built in three phases over five to eight years. The board plans to take it up Oct. 26 at 7:15 p.m. in Christiansburg. There is no new public hearing, but residents can speak during public comment.

Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026 · Cardinal News

News

Sixteen taken for medical checks after incident at Covington paper mill

Emergency crews responded Wednesday to the Westrock mill in Covington, WDBJ and WSLS report. LewisGale told WDBJ that at least 16 people were treated at a hospital and released, up from an earlier count of nine. A company spokesperson told WDBJ that contractors reported nausea and mild symptoms around 5 p.m., were taken for evaluation, and that the cause is still under review. The company said it knows of no public safety threat. WDBJ cites sources saying part of the plant is shut down.

Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026 · WDBJ, WSLS

News

Bicyclist seriously hurt in SUV crash; Memorial and Wasena reopened

Roanoke police investigated a major crash Wednesday evening at Memorial Avenue and Wasena Avenue SW involving a bicyclist and an SUV, WDBJ and WSLS report. Police say the rider was taken to a hospital with serious injuries and that the SUV driver stayed at the scene. WDBJ later reported the intersection reopened.

Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026 · WDBJ, WSLS

Crime

Franklin County man charged after fatal Rocky Mount shooting

Franklin County deputies say they found a woman dead from a gunshot wound early Wednesday in the 900 block of Lucy Wade Road in Rocky Mount, WDBJ and WSLS report. The sheriff's office identified the victim as Edna Joanna Patterson, 70, of Rocky Mount. Deputies say her husband, John David Patterson, 82, was charged with second-degree murder and with using a firearm in a felony. He is held without bond, according to the reports. The investigation continues.

Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026 · WDBJ, WSLS

Crime

Roanoke County police investigate fatal shooting

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Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

City Hall

Vinton plans speed cushions and new signs at Cleveland and Poplar

The Town of Vinton says it will add traffic-calming tools at East Cleveland Avenue and South Poplar Street after residents raised speed and safety concerns, WSLS reports. A review ruled out a four-way stop. Officials plan permanent speed-limit signs and temporary speed cushions on East Cleveland by October 30, then a follow-up speed study. Permanent cushions would depend on that study.

Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026 · WSLS

Around Town

Nonprofit floats a multi-sheet hockey rink for Salem

IcePlex Management Company, a local nonprofit, is meeting Salem officials about a proposed multi-sheet hockey rink in the city, WDBJ reports. Board members say youth and travel teams now lean on single-sheet rinks in Vinton and Lynchburg and want a city-partnered site. IcePlex has not named a cost; it says construction could take about 14 months after groundbreaking. Salem says it knows about the idea and has already met with the group. Lancerlot in Vinton says it offered a meeting and IcePlex declined.

Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026 · WDBJ

Crime

Roanoke police investigate weekend shooting in northwest; man wounded

Roanoke police say they answered a call about 2 a.m. Sunday in the 4000 block of Tennessee Avenue NW and found a 20-year-old man with multiple gunshot wounds, WDBJ, WSLS, and WSET report. Police say he reported being shot inside an apartment in the 3600 block of Ferncliff Avenue NW. His injuries were not life-threatening. Police say initial evidence indicates he knew the shooter. The investigation continues. No one has been named as a suspect in these reports.

Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026 · WDBJ, WSLS, WSET

Read at WDBJ · Also at WSLS · Also at WSET

Schools

Garden City Elementary lets out early after water main break

Roanoke City Public Schools dismissed Garden City Elementary at 11:15 a.m. Wednesday because of a water main break near Yellow Mountain Road, WDBJ reports. Students get lunch before they leave. The division says it expects the school to reopen Thursday, pending an update from the Western Virginia Water Authority, and will contact families again Wednesday evening.

Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026 · WDBJ

Around Town

Roanoke venues talk money, size, and why the biggest tours pass us by

WDBJ asked local venue operators why A-list tours rarely stop here. The Exchange Music Hall, Dr Pepper Park, and the Jefferson Center say booking touring acts is costly and risky for independents. The city-owned Berglund Center needs an estimated $30 million in repairs, and Mayor Joe Cobb says a regional arena and convention center could be possible. Not everyone agrees Roanoke needs a bigger room.

Monday, Oct. 12, 2026 · WDBJ

News

Data center critics protest at the Roanoke County Administration Center

The Southwest Virginia Data Center Transparency Alliance held a protest Tuesday outside the Roanoke County Administration Center, WSLS reports. The group is pushing for more public detail on proposed data centers across Southwest Virginia as more projects move through local reviews.

Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026 · WSLS

Around Town

Least of These says zoning rules may block its warming buses

The Least of These Ministry said Monday it faces zoning challenges that may stop it from running warming buses this season, WSLS reports. The Roanoke outreach group has used the buses as mobile cold-weather shelter for people without housing.

Monday, Oct. 12, 2026 · WSLS

News

Warner joins Feeding Southwest Virginia roundtable on hunger

U.S. Sen. Mark Warner met Tuesday in Roanoke with Feeding Southwest Virginia for a roundtable on food insecurity, WSLS reports. Warner said local groups are doing strong work and argued federal aid remains essential to the effort.

Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026 · WSLS

News

Water Authority teams with Tech and NASA on reservoir forecasts

The Western Virginia Water Authority is working with Virginia Tech and NASA on satellite-aided forecasts for reservoirs that serve the Roanoke region, WVTF reports. The aim is earlier notice of risks such as algal blooms, beyond boat grab samples alone.

Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026 · WVTF

Read at WVTF

City Hall

City confirms seven downtown streets in overnight paving work

Roanoke told the Roanoke Rambler that Kirk Avenue, from 2nd Street to Williamson Road, and one block of Salem Avenue are part of the downtown repaving job. Crews work from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. through about mid-November, weather permitting. No-parking signs go up ahead of each street, and towing is enforced.

Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026 · The Roanoke Rambler

Development

Montgomery County puts off Fotheringay housing vote to Oct. 26

Montgomery County supervisors held off Tuesday night on a rezoning that would allow a subdivision of about 349 homes on 276 acres of the 659-acre historic Fotheringay property in Elliston, WDBJ reports. Nearly 40 residents spoke, some for the added growth and others against a project of that size in a rural village. The board tabled the request until its Oct. 26 meeting.

Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026 · WDBJ

News

Warner delivers $1 million for Montvale school restoration

Sen. Mark Warner presented a $1 million federal grant in Bedford County to restore the historic Montvale school as a community center, WSLS reports. Local organizers say the project is meant to add jobs and gathering space in the Montvale area.

Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026 · WSLS

Around Town

An Avenel Avenue back alley is now an official Monarch Waystation

A Roanoke resident on Avenel Avenue began swapping the weeds and privet behind neighbors’ homes for pollinator plants, and the patch kept growing until it was certified as a Monarch Waystation, a registered stop for butterflies migrating south, WDBJ reports. Neighbors now help weed and trade plants. The trash cans reportedly lost the turf war.

Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026 · WDBJ

Schools

Virginia Western and Radford lock in medical lab transfer pathways

Virginia Western Community College and Radford University signed three articulation agreements Monday for medical laboratory programs, WSLS reports. Students who finish an associate’s degree in those programs can move into Radford’s bachelor’s track without losing credits.

Monday, Oct. 12, 2026 · WSLS

Schools

VCOM-Virginia gets $5.1 million for medical student scholarships

Donors H. Pat and Nancy E. Artis pledged $5.1 million for scholarships at the Blacksburg campus of the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, the college announced Tuesday, WSLS reports. VCOM will put the couple’s name on its newly bought 48,000-square-foot Health Sciences Education Building in Virginia Tech’s Corporate Research Center once renovations are done. A dedication date has not been set.

Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026 · WSLS

Development

Vinton confirms a planned Wawa at 1000 Hardy Road

The Town of Vinton confirmed plans on Oct. 6 for a Wawa at 1000 Hardy Road, WSLS reports. Demolition of the former Rite Aid building there has begun, and a Wawa is set to go up afterward. Wawa opened its first Salem store in September.

Monday, Oct. 12, 2026 · WSLS

Read at WSET · U.S. Attorney’s report

Crime

Federal crime report tallies a May Roanoke Valley sweep: 150 arrests, 302 warrants

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia put out its first yearly Project Safe Neighborhoods report on Tuesday, WSET and WDBJ report. For the Roanoke Valley it counts a May 2026 operation by 78 officers from 15 agencies that made 150 arrests and served 302 warrants. Seizures listed include about 16 kilograms of methamphetamine, 12 kilograms of cocaine, 352 grams of fentanyl, about $94,000 in cash, 20 handguns, and a rifle. The report also covers similar sweeps in Danville and Lynchburg. Arrests and charges are accusations, not convictions.

Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026 · WSET, WDBJ

Crime

Roanoke County police list 13 people charged in massage parlor investigation

Roanoke County police now say 13 people face charges after Monday's search warrants at eight businesses, WDBJ and WSET report. Police say 11 were charged with maintaining a bawdy place and are held without bond, and two men got summonses on a frequenting charge. Listed businesses are in the 8200 and 7300 blocks of Williamson Road, the 5300 block of Peters Creek Road, and the 3100, 3200, and 3600 blocks of Brambleton Avenue. Police also report seizing three vehicles and about $44,000 in cash, and say victims were offered help. The county is reviewing the businesses' licenses. The Roanoke Times published a follow-up on the case Sunday morning; see the link below. Charges are accusations, not convictions.

Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026 · WDBJ, WSET

Read at WDBJ · Sunday follow-up at The Roanoke Times

Food & Drink

Burger in the Square sets Wednesday as its last day

Burger in the Square at 3904 Brambleton Avenue will serve its final customers Wednesday, Oct. 14, WSLS reports. The restaurant posted the news on Facebook Monday with thanks to guests and staff, and gave no reason for closing. Anyone owed one more burger there has until Wednesday to collect.

Monday, Oct. 12, 2026 · WSLS

City Hall

Del. Sam Rasoul passes the bar and becomes a licensed lawyer

Roanoke Del. Sam Rasoul learned Friday that he passed the Virginia bar exam, Cardinal News reports. He quietly attended a part-time University of Dayton law program since 2022 and graduated in May. He says the study shaped his Richmond work and that he hopes to focus on civil rights and criminal defense, with no immediate career change announced.

Monday, Oct. 12, 2026 · Cardinal News

Development

Buyer skips closing on New River Valley Commerce Park deal that included a data center

A planned sale of about 475 acres at the New River Valley Commerce Park in Pulaski County did not close by the Oct. 5 deadline, Cardinal News reports. The authority says the contract with New River Valley LLC expired. The proposal had called for at least $750 million in industrial investment over 10 years, including a possible data center, and no new buyer is lined up yet.

Monday, Oct. 12, 2026 · Cardinal News

Development

Virginia’s power transformer makers expand as electricity demand climbs

Roanoke-based Virginia Transformer Corp. runs plants in Roanoke and Botetourt County and bills itself as the largest U.S.-owned maker of electrical power transformers in North America, Cardinal News reports. Nearby, Lynchburg-based Delta Star is adding hundreds of jobs, Hitachi Energy is expanding in South Boston with more than 800 jobs planned, and a new JST plant in Wytheville has started production.

Monday, Oct. 12, 2026 · Cardinal News

Development

HopeTree and Stateson prep large south Salem housing project

HopeTree Family Services and Blacksburg-based Stateson Homes are moving toward construction on a large south Salem project, Cardinal News reports. HopeTree plans campus renovations starting in the summer and will keep about 30 acres; about 30 acres would go to housing. Stateson aims to begin building hundreds of cottages, townhomes, and small apartment buildings within about six months, with commercial space mixed in. The plan follows council votes and a legal fight. HopeTree says renovations on its side would cost about $11 million.

Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026 · Cardinal News

Around Town

Noise complaints prompt Roanoke to require 'quiet pickleballs' at several city parks

Headline and link only — we do not reprint that outlet.

Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

Around Town

GO Fest adds ninja warrior course, returns classic vendors this weekend

Headline and link only — we do not reprint that outlet.

Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

News

Bedford County non-emergency dispatch line has trouble; 911 still works

Bedford County says its usual non-emergency dispatch number, 540-586-7827, is having on-and-off problems Saturday afternoon, so some callers may not get through, WSLS and WSET report. Backup numbers are 540-586-7665, 540-587-5912, 540-586-7666, and 540-586-7664. The county says 911 lines are working normally and that it is working on a fix.

Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 · WSLS

Read at WSLS · WSET

News

Roanoke council candidates weigh in on Evans Spring at church forum

Six people running for Roanoke City Council took questions at a forum at Williams Memorial Baptist Church, WDBJ reports. The future of Evans Spring led the talk, and data centers and affordable housing also came up. Evans Spring is about 150 acres of open land across I-581 from Valley View Mall, the largest undeveloped tract in the city. Most of it is privately owned, and the Blue Ridge Land Conservancy is trying to buy and protect parcels. Longtime neighbors and the Friends of Evans Spring group said the city's 2024 plan for big retail and housing did not reflect what residents want. Candidates offered views ranging from putting conservation on equal footing with development to blending the two. Those taking part were Kathy Cohen, Amanda Marko, Vivian Sanchez-Jones, David Bowers, Danny Clawson, and Raekwon Moore. Stephanie Moon Reynolds was not there.

Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 · WDBJ

News

Valley swift water rescue team stays ready as heavy rain nears

The Division 6 Roanoke Regional Swift Water Rescue Team draws its members from Roanoke Fire-EMS, Salem Fire and EMS, and Roanoke County Fire and Rescue, WDBJ reports. The crew drills all year and can be sent to emergencies across Virginia and beyond. A Roanoke Fire-EMS member told WDBJ that hands-on preparation ramps up in hurricane season, and that crews plan for hazards such as downed trees and debris carried by floodwater.

Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026 · WDBJ

News

Claudia Whitworth, longtime Roanoke Tribune publisher, dies at 98

Claudia Whitworth, a Roanoke civic leader who ran the Roanoke Tribune for more than half a century, died Thursday, three weeks short of turning 99, her family told WDBJ. Her father, Baptist minister Fleming Alexander, started the paper in 1939. She learned the trade in Roanoke and other cities, including work as a typesetter in New York, and bought the Tribune from him in 1971. Funeral arrangements were still incomplete Friday afternoon.

Friday, Oct. 9, 2026 · WDBJ

Around Town

Drought may delay and dull Roanoke Valley fall colors this year

Ongoing drought in parts of Southwest Virginia could slow the leaf change and leave more muted shades in place of bright reds and oranges, a WFXR meteorologist says. Rain in the October forecast may help. Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge, which calls fall the region’s busiest tourism season, still expects the best viewing from late October into early November, though the season could run shorter.

Friday, Oct. 9, 2026 · WFXR

News

WFXR counts 48 international businesses along four miles of Williamson Road

For Hispanic Heritage Month, WFXR spotlights the Williamson Road corridor in Roanoke, where the station tallies 48 international businesses within about four miles.

Friday, Oct. 9, 2026 · WFXR

Development

Wood Haven authority says transparency concerns led it out of data center secrecy deal

The Western Virginia Regional Industrial Facility Authority says it left its nondisclosure agreement with Clearview Dynamics because people around Virginia have raised worries about secrecy on data center projects, Cardinal News reports. The authority says it still has to protect some project details, including the name of the buyer’s parent company. It voted Sept. 11 to begin selling 94 acres at Wood Haven Technology Park, which Roanoke, Roanoke County, and Salem own together. The Southwest Virginia Data Center Transparency Alliance says the public still lacks answers and that its records requests keep stalling. Roanoke County says it wants to be open while letting the company reveal itself when it is ready.

Friday, Oct. 9, 2026 · Cardinal News

Development

Google pledges about $1.8 million for Botetourt home repairs near its data center

Google will pay for repairs and energy-saving upgrades for about 80 Botetourt County homeowners near its planned data center at the Botetourt Center at Greenfield, Cardinal News reports. The work runs over the next year. Another $260,000 pays for construction-trades training for about 40 people, including HVAC and electrical work. Roanoke-based Total Action for Progress leads the Botetourt effort and handles eligibility. The money is part of a $10 million Google commitment to several Virginia localities, with lower- and moderate-income households near its data centers first in line.

Friday, Oct. 9, 2026 · Cardinal News

News

Roanoke man who buys blood thinner from Canada faces new customs hurdles

A Roanoke resident says he pays about $359 for a three-month supply of apixaban from Canadian pharmacies, versus about $1,100 in the U.S. New Customs and Border Protection rules take effect Oct. 22. The Canadian International Pharmacy Association warns the change could disrupt overseas prescription deliveries for patients like him, WSLS reports.

Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026 · WSLS

News

Franklin County deputies say missing 81-year-old has been found safe

The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office says Alden Wilcox, 81, has been found safe, WDBJ reports. He had been reported missing from the Standiford Road area after walking out of his home Wednesday afternoon.

Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026 · WDBJ

News

Community groups deliver six beds to a Roanoke Habitat for Humanity home

Habitat for Humanity, Virginia Tech, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, and local churches delivered three bunk beds — six beds in all — for children in a Roanoke Habitat home, WFXR reports.

Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026 · WFXR

News

Storms keep missing the Roanoke Valley, so its drought emergency holds

Rain has eased dry conditions across much of Virginia, but the Roanoke region is still under a state drought emergency, the Virginia Mercury reports. Many of the storms that soaked central and northern Virginia passed this area by. The Mercury puts Carvins Cove about 21.4 feet below full and Spring Hollow about 27.5 feet below full. It says both are close to the point where the water authority’s plan calls for mandatory limits. State officials say groundwater needs a long run of steady rain to recover, and they hope a wetter El Niño winter helps.

Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026 · Virginia Mercury

Read at Virginia Mercury

Crime

Jury finds man guilty of second-degree murder in 2024 shooting outside a Roanoke motel

Headline and link only — we do not reprint that outlet.

Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

Schools

Roanoke city schools post gains in the state’s latest school performance ratings

Headline and link only — we do not reprint that outlet.

Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

City Hall

Radford still has no timeline for state help seven months after fiscal distress finding

The state found Radford in fiscal distress in March. City leaders say they have taken their own steps since then, but they still do not know when state aid will come or which state body acts next, Cardinal News reports. The governor’s office says it has met with the city and reviewed proposals from turnaround specialists. City leaders say they understand the state is waiting on funding before it can hire a financial adviser. Radford and the town of Tangier are the only places formally designated so far.

Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026 · Cardinal News

Development

Timeline: how the Wood Haven data center project in Roanoke County came about

The Roanoke Times has published a timeline of the Wood Haven data center project. Read the full piece at the publisher.

Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

Crime

Roanoke police say crime is down 14% this year as homicides near the 2025 total

Overall crime in Roanoke is down 14% from the same point last year, police said at their quarterly crime update Wednesday, WDBJ reports. Violent crime is down 10%. Property crime is also down 14%, and reported rapes fell 38%. Arson was the only major category that rose. Ten people have died in eight homicide cases so far in 2026. The city counted 12 homicides in all of 2025. Chief Scott Booth credited community tips, technology, and the department's real-time crime center.

Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026 · WDBJ

Around Town

Taubman Museum to open free “American Made” exhibition Oct. 15

A new exhibition called “American Made” opens at the Taubman Museum of Art in downtown Roanoke on Thursday, Oct. 15, at 10 a.m., WSLS reports. It brings 86 paintings, sculptures, and interactive pieces from the private American art collection of DeMell Jacobson, many of them rarely shown to the public. Admission is free. The show stays up through Jan. 24, 2027.

Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026 · WSLS

Around Town

Open Studios Botetourt lets visitors tour artists’ workspaces Oct. 17 and 18

Artists across Botetourt County will welcome visitors into their studios and homes the weekend of Oct. 17 and 18, WDBJ reports. The self-guided driving tour is free. It runs 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Guests can see finished pieces and works in progress, and some stops will show how the art gets made. Filling out a passport card at a stop gives a chance at a $150 gift certificate for buying art.

Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026 · WDBJ

News

Hemp shops end their federal suit in Roanoke over Virginia’s new limits

Seven businesses that sell hemp-based products have dropped the case they brought in Roanoke’s federal court, The Roanoke Times reports. They had sued to win back money they say they lost under a new state law that now bars most of what they sell. A request to hold off the law was denied in August. Shops in Roanoke, including one on Main Street SW, say most of their stock can no longer be sold.

Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

Around Town

Hundreds of flags will honor local heroes at Salem’s Field of Honor

The Salem Rotary Club Foundation is putting up its Field of Honor at American Legion Field, 710 Apperson Drive, WFXR reports. Hundreds of U.S. flags will stand there from Oct. 31 into mid-November, around Veterans Day. Each flag can be sponsored in honor of a veteran, service member, first responder, or another hero. The Rotary Club of Salem says the display is free to visit.

Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026 · WFXR

Schools

Franklin County schools back to normal after a threat call is ruled unfounded

A threatening call aimed at Franklin County High School put several Franklin County schools on lockdown or hold-in-place Wednesday, WDBJ reports. The sheriff’s office said students and staff stayed safe the whole time. By about 1 p.m., deputies said the threat was unsubstantiated and every school was released from lockdown. Parents picking up children were asked to be patient. Schools in Amherst County, Lynchburg, and Altavista also dealt with threats the same day.

Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026 · WDBJ

Around Town

Craftsmen’s Fall Classic shoppers gave enough food for 20,000 meals

The 39th Craftsmen’s Fall Classic at the Berglund Center on Friday, Oct. 2, collected more than 18,000 pounds of food plus cash gifts for Feeding Southwest Virginia, WFXR reports. The food bank says that adds up to about 20,000 meals for families in need across the region.

Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026 · WFXR

News

VA grant money reaches a Roanoke adaptive sports program for veterans

The Department of Veterans Affairs gave $114,455 to two Virginia adaptive sports programs, and one of them is in Roanoke, WSLS reports. The money is part of a $16 million national round for 91 groups. These programs use things like archery, cycling, fishing, and wheelchair softball to help veterans with disabilities recover and stay active. The Salem VA Health Care System welcomed the funding.

Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026 · WSLS

City Hall

J.D. Taylor talks about his run for Salem City Council

J.D. Taylor is running for a seat on Salem City Council in next month’s election, WFIR reports. He told the station he hopes to set an example for others and make the city better. WFIR’s story includes an audio report.

Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026 · WFIR

Development

South Peak apartment gets Roanoke County planners approval recommendation for 285 units

Headline and link only — we do not reprint that outlet.

Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

Development

Officials weigh in on Mountain Valley Pipeline's proposed Boost project

Headline and link only — we do not reprint that outlet.

Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

Development

5 things to know about the proposed AI Center of Excellence

Headline and link only — we do not reprint that outlet.

Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

Crime

Witness testifies in murder trial over fatal shooting outside a Roanoke motel

Headline and link only — we do not reprint that outlet.

Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

News

Salem accounts for 44% of Roanoke Valley growth since 2020

Salem added about 522 people from 2020 to 2025, a gain of 2.1%, according to University of Virginia population estimates that Cardinal News reviewed. That is more than Roanoke and Roanoke County gained combined. The city of Roanoke grew by just 75 people, to about 100,086, and Roanoke County added 331. In Roanoke, Roanoke County, Salem, and Botetourt, more people are dying than being born, so growth depends on newcomers, and the analysis finds the city of Roanoke trails its neighbors in drawing them. Roanoke and Salem both elect council members on Nov. 3.

Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026 · Cardinal News

News

New state school ratings put Roanoke-area region near the top

The Virginia Department of Education released its newest school performance ratings on Wednesday, Cardinal News reports. The state sorts each school into one of four tiers. The superintendent region covering the Roanoke and New River valleys, Danville, and Martinsville, along with the far Southwest region, had more schools in the top "distinguished" tier than anywhere else in Virginia. Only a handful of schools landed in the bottom tier, "needs intensive support," and most of them are in the Lynchburg, Roanoke, and Danville city school divisions.

Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026 · Cardinal News

News

CODI Alert canceled: missing Roanoke 4-year-old located

Roanoke police have canceled the CODI Alert issued Tuesday and say the 4-year-old boy reported missing has been located, WDBJ reports. Virginia State Police had sent out the alert Tuesday afternoon on behalf of Roanoke police. The boy had last been seen around 10 p.m. Monday at his home in Southeast Roanoke. Police have not released other details about where he was found. Because the alert is over, NokeNow has removed his name and description from this item.

Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026 · WDBJ · alert canceled, child located; updated about 7:25 p.m.

News

Catawba Valley Drive reopens at Oakey Dolin Road after crash

All lanes of Catawba Valley Drive (Route 311) near Oakey Dolin Road were open again by 11 a.m. Tuesday, Roanoke County said. A wreck involving several vehicles had closed the area earlier that morning, with drivers sent around on Old Catawba Road. Minor injuries were reported.

Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026 · Roanoke County

Read at Roanoke County · WDBJ · WSLS · WFXR

News

Virginia Western adds faster CDL training options

Virginia Western Community College is teaming up with Ancora Training on quicker routes to a commercial driver’s license, WFXR reports. The Class A day program runs about four weeks, with start dates of Oct. 19 and Nov. 9. An evening and weekend version takes about eight weeks. A weekend Class B course starts Oct. 31. A slower hybrid Class A option runs with Mountain Gateway Community College. Virginia residents may qualify for funding.

Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026 · WFXR

News

Wood Haven land owner freed from data center secrecy deal

The Western Virginia Regional Industrial Facility Authority, which owns the Wood Haven Technology Park land in Roanoke County, says it has been released from its nondisclosure agreement with Clearview Dynamics LLC, WDBJ reports. Clearview is the company that plans to buy the land. The authority pointed to ethical reasons. It is now legally free to share information about the deal, but it says it is not revealing who Clearview’s parent company is. More details are expected over the next few months.

Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026 · WDBJ

News

Councilman Volosin says insult was meant for HiRoanoke, not PTA leader

A Roanoke City Council of PTAs officer, Rebekah Murphy, says Councilman Peter Volosin called her an “idiot” on social media, WDBJ reports. Volosin says the remark was meant for HiRoanoke, an online account that has criticized council members, and that he believed Murphy helped run it. Murphy says she does not. She says she is a parent who got involved over school funding cuts. She sent a complaint with screenshots to council and the mayor, and says Volosin blocked her afterward. Volosin told WDBJ the comment came from frustration after months of online attacks, including death threats he reported to police. He denied being a bully and denied a pattern of name-calling. He apologized to Murphy if she has no tie to the account, but said he still stands by what he said about HiRoanoke. The dispute comes days after Mayor Joe Cobb described council’s new professionalism committee.

Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026 · WDBJ

News

Roanoke City Schools solar project spans 29 schools, with batteries next

Roanoke City Public Schools is adding rooftop solar at 29 schools, WDBJ reports. Superintendent Verletta White says no other Virginia division has done that many. The panels cost the division nothing up front, and it buys the power at a locked low rate. Projected savings run $42 million to $45 million. The next step pairs solar with large batteries at high schools that double as emergency shelters, so they can stay powered for days if the grid fails. School and state leaders shared the plan at a seminar Tuesday so other divisions can copy it.

Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026 · WDBJ

News

Panda Express pledges $500,000 to Carilion Children’s physical therapy

Panda Express will give Carilion Children’s $500,000 spread over eight years, WFIR reports. The money goes to pediatric physical therapy at Carilion Children’s-Tanglewood, which sits next to a Panda Express restaurant. It will buy new therapy gear, including a lift system that helps young patients stand on their own. The space is being renamed the Panda Cares Center of Hope.

Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026 · WFIR

Food & Drink

Remini’s on Brambleton Avenue pauses lunch, citing rising costs

Remini’s, the Italian restaurant at 4210 Brambleton Ave. in Roanoke County, is dropping lunch for now, WSLS reports. The owners pointed to higher food and utility bills. Dinner continues, and the restaurant now opens at 3 p.m. every day.

Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026 · WSLS

News

Feeding Southwest Virginia summer initiative helped 6,500 children

Headline and link only — we do not reprint that outlet.

Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

Schools

Before the keys: four more teen-driver sessions are set at Roanoke-area high schools

Teen drivers and their parents in the Roanoke area have four more chances this fall to sit through the Partners for Safe Teen Driving presentation, WSLS reports. Students must attend one of the five sessions before they can get a DEC-1 card or start behind-the-wheel training, and parents are strongly urged to come along. The remaining sessions are at Northside, William Byrd, Glenvar and Cave Spring high schools; WSLS did not list dates. Drive Smart Virginia told the station that crashes involving drivers ages 15 to 19 killed 39 people in Virginia from January through September, up from 33 at the same point last year.

Monday, Oct. 5, 2026 · WSLS

City Hall

Franklin County starts looking for a new administrator as Steve Sandy leaves for Botetourt

Franklin County supervisors held a special meeting Monday to begin replacing County Administrator Steve Sandy, WDBJ reports. Sandy is resigning effective Nov. 30 to take a job in Botetourt County. He has held the top job since February, after 12 years with the county, and his letter cited family reasons. The county attorney told the station the job will be advertised openly, interviews likely will not be public, and an interim administrator is expected. More details could come at the board's Oct. 20 meeting. Some residents who pushed back on the Project Flash data center plan say openness is what they want most in the next hire.

Monday, Oct. 5, 2026 · WDBJ

Around Town

A Roanoke native brought ballroom and vogueing home, and built a chosen family around it

West Virginia Public Broadcasting profiles Roanoke's House of Expression, a ballroom house that acts as a chosen family for LGBTQ members. Founder Garland Gravely grew up in Roanoke, discovered vogueing in Boston in the late 1980s, then went to balls in New York before moving back home in 2004. He started the house after noticing the region had no ballroom scene at all. The piece opens at a vogueing workshop during a Girls Rock weekend in Roanoke.

Monday, Oct. 5, 2026 · West Virginia Public Broadcasting

Read at WVPB

Around Town

David Arquette’s Scream anniversary talk was Thursday at the Berglund

Actor David Arquette, Deputy Dewey from the Scream films, was booked at the Berglund Performing Arts Theatre on Thursday night, Oct. 8, WSLS reported ahead of the show. The night paired a screening of the 1996 original with a moderated talk and audience questions, one stop on a tour for the movie’s 30th anniversary. Arquette told the station he was born in Fairfax County and spent part of his childhood in Front Royal. He also says he is a certified Bob Ross painting instructor.

Monday, Oct. 5, 2026 · WSLS

Read at National Park Service

News

Blue Ridge Parkway open again through Roanoke

The Parkway is open from Route 24 (Washington Avenue) to Route 220, mileposts 112.4 to 121.4, on the National Park Service road status page as of 1:26 p.m. Monday. That ends the closure between the Roanoke River Parkway and the Mill Mountain Parkway. Explore Park Road and the Mill Mountain spur are open. The Roanoke Mountain loop is still closed until further notice. WSLS reports the park service finished a multiyear repaving and repair project on mileposts 115 to 121. Check the park service page before you go, since status can change during the day. WSLS has more.

Monday, Oct. 5, 2026 · National Park Service

News

RoVa Labs gets $1 million federal grant for lab equipment

Roanoke City Council accepted a $1 million grant from the U.S. Small Business Administration to buy research equipment for RoVa Labs, the city says. RoVa Labs is a biotech startup incubator on South Jefferson Street. It opened in May and now has nine tenants. City leaders say the new equipment should draw more life sciences startups to the Roanoke Innovation Corridor near the Fralin institute and Carilion.

Monday, Oct. 5, 2026 · City of Roanoke

News

Overnight downtown paving starts Oct. 11, with towing in work zones

The city says crews will mill and pave downtown streets overnight, 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., starting Sunday, Oct. 11, and running through mid-November if weather allows. The work covers parts of Salem, Campbell, Kirk, and Church avenues, plus stretches of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd streets. No-parking notices will be posted in advance, and vehicles in work zones will be towed. Expect overnight noise downtown; city garages are the fallback for parking.

Monday, Oct. 5, 2026 · City of Roanoke

News

Roanoke College names its first women’s flag football coach

Elizabeth Faust started Monday as Roanoke College’s first women’s flag football coach, WFIR reports. The Salem school is targeting a 2028 debut in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference, the same year flag football joins the Los Angeles Olympics. Faust has coached youth teams and been part of youth flag leagues since 2012, and she plans to recruit athletes from other high school sports too.

Monday, Oct. 5, 2026 · WFIR

News

Roanoke gas average slips 11 cents in a week to $4.13

GasBuddy’s survey of 155 Roanoke stations puts the local average at $4.13 a gallon as of Monday, down about 11 cents from a week ago, WDBJ reports. Prices are still roughly 25 cents above a month ago and about $1.29 above this time last year. The cheapest Roanoke station listed $3.84 on Sunday. The Virginia average is near $4.10, and the national average is about $4.30.

Monday, Oct. 5, 2026 · WDBJ

Crime

Roanoke police add presence at Countryside Park after lewd-behavior reports

Roanoke police said Monday they have stepped up their presence at Countryside Park after several reports of lewd behavior there in September, WSLS reports. Police released a photo of a person they believe is tied to the reports. They ask anyone at the park who sees suspicious behavior to call 911 right away. People with information, or who can identify the person, can call Roanoke police at 540-344-8500.

Monday, Oct. 5, 2026 · WSLS

Development

Tanglewood Crossing lines up first tenants, with about 100 homes planned later

The first building at Tanglewood Crossing, near Electric Road (Route 419) and Starkey Road in southwest Roanoke County, is slated to open in March 2027, WFIR reports. Developer A Boone Real Estate named five tenants last week: Biscuit Belly, Dave’s Hot Chicken, Bub-bakoo’s Burritos, a wax studio, and Mattress Warehouse, which signed a 10-year lease. Later phases call for almost 100 residential units plus more shops and restaurants. VDOT counts about 40,000 vehicles a day through that intersection.

Monday, Oct. 5, 2026 · WFIR

News

Botetourt County Fire and EMS mourns Assistant Fire Chief Alan Wright

Botetourt County Fire and EMS says Assistant Fire Chief Alan Wright of the Eagle Rock Volunteer Fire Department has died. WDBJ reports Wright was critically injured during a June 2016 swift-water rescue while serving the community; the department released a statement on his passing.

Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026 · WDBJ

Crime

State trooper guilty in Roanoke County child abuse case

Headline and link only — we do not reprint that outlet.

Friday, Oct. 2, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

News

Vinton streets closed while police check suspicious package on Wayland Street

Vinton police are checking a report of a suspicious package at Omnisource in the 200 block of Wayland Street midday Thursday, Roanoke County said. Precautionary road closures include Baldwin Avenue at Light Street and at Wayland Street, 10th Street at Daleton Avenue and at Hill Avenue, and 9th Street at Dale Avenue. The Roanoke Valley SPCA is also closed during the investigation, WDBJ reports.

Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026 · WDBJ

Read at WDBJ · WFXR

Crime

Three sought after Cave Spring shooting and robbery, county police say

Roanoke County police say they answered a call about 3:30 p.m. Saturday in the 4300 block of Garst Mill Road in the Cave Spring area and found one person with a gunshot wound after a robbery. The victim is stable. Three people are being sought; police say the suspects had left before officers arrived and have not released descriptions or other details. They say they believe there is no danger to the public. Tips: 540-562-3265.

Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026 · WDBJ

Development

WVRIFA says Clearview is evaluating Wood Haven for a data center

The Western Virginia Regional Industrial Facility Authority said Tuesday that Clearview Dynamics LLC is reviewing Wood Haven Technology Park as a possible data-center site, with due diligence expected to run through March 2027, WDBJ reports. The authority said Spring Hollow Reservoir would serve the park and that Clearview would pay for the project’s power and related infrastructure. Officials still frame the work as early evaluation, not a completed project.

Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2026 · WDBJ

Development

AI Ready Roanoke seeks consultant study for a regional AI hub

Local governments, businesses, and colleges in the Roanoke region formed an AI Ready Roanoke planning group and issued an RFP for consultants to gauge demand and feasibility for a regional AI center of excellence, Cardinal News reports. Separately, the Virginia Chamber of Commerce has said major AI-driven job-market shifts are more likely in the next two to five years than right now.

Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2026 · Cardinal News

News

Hunger study: 42% of Virginia households food insecure; 55% in SWVA

The inaugural Virginia Hunger Study finds 42% of Virginia households lacked consistent access to enough food at some point between May 2025 and May 2026, WDBJ reports, citing Feeding Southwest Virginia. In Feeding Southwest Virginia’s service area the rate was 55%, and 70% among households with children there. Partners including the Federation of Virginia Food Banks commissioned the survey of more than 5,600 people after USDA stopped issuing annual state hunger estimates.

Monday, Sept. 21, 2026 · WDBJ

City Hall

City Council accepts $2.95M Safer Communities grant from the state

Roanoke City Council on Monday accepted and appropriated a $2,951,158 Safer Communities grant from the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services, WSLS reports. The city is one of nine in Virginia selected for the funding, aimed at community-based work on the roots of violence. Past rounds have supported Roanoke Police outreach, a gun-lock ambassador program, and a teen apprenticeship, according to the city.

Monday, Sept. 21, 2026 · WSLS

City Hall

Salem swears in Dr. Joseph Foley to fill Saunders council seat

Salem City Council swore in chiropractor Dr. Joseph Foley on Monday to the seat left vacant when John Saunders died Aug. 22, WDBJ reports. Council had appointed him earlier this month after reviewing 13 applicants in closed session and voting unanimously. Foley has practiced in Salem since 1990 and has been Roanoke College’s team chiropractor since 2017; he will serve until a November 2027 special election fills the rest of the term and has said he does not plan to seek the seat then.

Monday, Sept. 28, 2026 · WDBJ

City Hall

Firefighters bring collective-bargaining proposal to City Council

The Roanoke Firefighters Association (IAFF Local 1132) plans its first formal presentation of a collective-bargaining proposal to City Council and the public, WSLS reports. Union leaders say they have worked with city government since July 2025 on giving city employees a bargaining option and want the session to explain how a local framework would work beyond wages alone. They are encouraging residents to attend the council meeting.

Monday, Sept. 21, 2026 · WSLS

Around Town

Park Dental reports unauthorized access to systems and email

Park Dental says someone gained unauthorized remote access to a workstation and office email on and off from June 10 through July 22, discovered the same day the access ended, WSLS reports. The practice is posting a HIPAA notice because more than 500 Virginia residents may be affected. Records that might have been reached include names plus contact details, chart numbers, appointments, imaging, diagnoses, and insurance or billing data; Park Dental says the notice does not prove any patient’s information was actually misused and says it has locked down accounts and hired outside investigators.

Monday, Sept. 21, 2026 · WSLS

City Hall

Mayor Cobb says Vice Mayor and a council member breached conduct code

Mayor Joe Cobb, in a statement carried by WFIR, says the Vice Mayor and a council member let activism override governance duties. He says recent social media posts and behavior toward colleagues, the city manager, and Western Virginia Regional Industrial Facility Authority members violated council’s Code of Conduct and Ethics, and that the matter will go through the city’s conflict-resolution process. The statement does not name the officials.

Monday, Sept. 21, 2026 · WFIR

Around Town

Rajasthani Caravan brings two-day folk residency to Jefferson Center

A traditional folk ensemble from Rajasthan, India, is booked for a Wednesday–Thursday residency at Jefferson Center, WFIR reports. Artistic director Katrina Ji leads a free public Indian folk-dance workshop Wednesday; a ticketed concert is Thursday evening in Shaftman Performance Hall.

Monday, Sept. 21, 2026 · WFIR

Around Town

Salem Star-B-Q puts Trey Pendley at the Farmers Market on Oct. 21

City of Salem says country singer-songwriter Trey Pendley headlines the 2026 Star-B-Q on Wednesday, Oct. 21, at the Salem Farmers Market (Main and Broad), with Arkansas opener Jake Bradley. Doors at 5 p.m., music at 6:15, wrap about 8:30. Tickets are $10 ahead or $12 day-of; kids 10 and under free, with BBQ vendors on site.

Monday, Sept. 21, 2026 · City of Salem

City Hall

Cardinal checks Macy’s data-center tax claims against Cline

In the 6th District race that reaches Roanoke, Cardinal News reviews Democratic challenger Beth Macy’s charge that Rep. Ben Cline cast three sales-tax votes favoring data centers. The outlet says those votes happened while Cline was in the General Assembly — 10 to 18 years ago — early in Virginia’s data-center boom. The same piece also weighs a parallel attack by VA-5 challenger Tom Perriello on Rep. John McGuire.

Monday, Sept. 21, 2026 · Cardinal News

News

Sheriff’s Office runs Life Essentials pop-up for unsheltered residents

The Roanoke City Sheriff’s Office held its quarterly Life Essentials pop-up Wednesday for people without housing, offering personal-care items, a meal, and links to local services, WSLS reports. Partners included Food Lion, Calm Clinic & Caravan, State Farm, The Drop-In Center, and Roanoke Public Libraries. The office is seeking donations and partners for future events.

Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2026 · WSLS

News

TAP keeps VA grant for veteran housing work in Roanoke

Roanoke’s Total Action for Progress is among 17 Virginia organizations sharing about $28.2 million in a new VA grant round aimed at veteran homelessness, WFXR reports. Nationwide the VA is directing about $1.17 billion to nearly 700 groups after helping almost 52,000 veterans find housing in fiscal 2025. TAP says the award holds Supportive Services for Veteran Families funding at the same level since 2013 and backs housing stability plus jobs and health navigation from its downtown site.

Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2026 · WFXR

News

Kaine presses transparency on Virginia data-center growth

Sen. Tim Kaine said Wednesday that Virginia’s AI data-center boom — nearly 400 operating and more than 200 planned, including many in Southwest Virginia — needs clearer disclosure from localities and operators on power and water impacts, WSLS reports. He backs congressional efforts toward national siting standards and utility-use transparency.

Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2026 · WSLS

News

Radford University sets Oct. 23 ribbon-cutting for $1.2M e-sports facility

Radford University’s new 10,000-square-foot e-sports space — about $1.2 million with 80 gaming PCs — gets a ribbon-cutting Oct. 23, WDBJ reports. The Highlanders finished as Big South runners-up in 2026 and won a Mid-Atlantic Esports Conference title the prior season.

Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2026 · WDBJ

News

Christiansburg EMS first in Virginia with crash-rated pediatric restraint

Christiansburg EMS is the first agency in Virginia to field a crash-rated pediatric restraint for ambulance transports, WSLS reports. Officials say earlier child restraints on stretchers lacked a true crash rating; the department runs about 12–14 calls a day, including patient trips into Roanoke hospitals.

Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2026 · WSLS

Development

Appalachian Power pegs $264M grid work for Google’s Botetourt campus

Appalachian Power’s Sept. 4 application to the Virginia State Corporation Commission estimates about $264 million to upgrade transmission lines and substations for Google’s data center campus at the Botetourt Center at Greenfield, Cardinal News reports. The filing puts Google’s peak electricity demand near 300 megawatts. Appalachian says the new load is expected to bring in enough revenue to cover the upgrades, so other customers are not expected to pay more for that work.

Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2026 · Cardinal News

Read at Roanoke County Parks

Food & Drink

Roanoke County Food Truck Week rolls through Green Hill Park

County parks is running a three-day Food Truck Week through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., hopping to a new spot each day. Tuesday was Walrond Park. Wednesday is Green Hill Park (2500 Green Hill Park Road) with Rocky Mount Smokehouse, Grandpa Ike’s Mini Donuts, and The Chaotic Kitchen. Thursday wraps at the Roanoke County Administration Building on Bernard Drive with Bootleg BBQ, Get Glazed, La Shunca, and Star City Burger Company. Seating is available; blankets are fine, the county says.

Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026 · Roanoke County Parks

Crime

Shooting by Roanoke police officer ruled justified as self-defense

Headline and link only — we do not reprint that outlet.

Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

Schools

Roanoke Catholic football stuck on sidelines as opponents cancel

Roanoke Catholic (2-0) is looking at a second straight forfeit win after another opponent backed out, WDBJ reports. Coach Brett Jones said Fredericksburg Christian cited injuries last week; this week’s scheduled foe cited the Celtics’ talent, he said.

Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026 · WDBJ

City Hall

City says permitting backlog is cleared; reviews back on target

Roanoke officials said Monday the city has cleared a five- to six-week backlog of zoning, historic, and building permit reviews, and staff are issuing permits within one- to two-week targets after a spring shake-up in Planning, Building & Development, WSLS reports. Assistant City Manager Lavar Youmans told council the team has issued 144 more permits while cutting waits, following leadership turnover, staffing gaps, and old software the city had flagged.

Monday, Sept. 14, 2026 · WSLS

News

U.S. 220 northbound crash near Old Rocky Mount Road clears

WSLS says a vehicle crash on U.S. 220 northbound near Old Rocky Mount Road in Roanoke City closed the left shoulder and both lanes as of about 3:56 p.m. Sunday, with backups of about half a mile. VDOT later reported the crash cleared.

Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 · WSLS

Schools

Hokies beat ODU 44-21; Grunkemeyer throws for 327

Ethan Grunkemeyer threw for a career-high 327 yards and two touchdowns and ran for another as Virginia Tech beat Old Dominion 44-21 on Saturday in Blacksburg, WSLS reports. The Hokies (2-0) piled up 416 yards after opening with a 73-3 win over VMI; ODU got 187 passing yards from Quinn Henicle.

Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026 · WSLS

Around Town

Olde Salem Days draws crowds with 303 vendors downtown

Downtown Salem packed in 303 vendors Saturday for the 46th Olde Salem Days, WDBJ reports — morning rain slowed the open, then shoppers filled the streets through 4:30 p.m. Rotary of Salem runs it; proceeds go back to local charities and civic work, including Christmas for Kids.

Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 · WDBJ

Crime

Motorcyclist gets 13 years for I-81 road rage shooting in Roanoke County

Headline and link only — we do not reprint that outlet.

Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

News

Blacksburg firefighters and Tech cadets climb Lane Stadium steps for 9/11

About 40 Blacksburg volunteer firefighters joined Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets members and student athletes Friday morning for a 45-minute Lane Stadium stair climb marking 25 years since Sept. 11, Cardinal News reports. Climbers treated the steps as a stand-in for the World Trade Center towers' 110 stories; some firefighters wore full gear. A public remembrance formation followed at the Lane Hall flagpole.

Friday, Sept. 11, 2026 · Cardinal News

City Hall

Franklin County names Bonnie Law to interim Boone District seat

Franklin County supervisors appointed Bonnie Law on Friday to the Boone District seat left vacant when Supervisor Mike Meredith resigned, WDBJ reports. The post is interim through a November 2027 special election; Law, a longtime Boone District resident and retired insurance agent, is scheduled to be sworn in Sept. 15.

Friday, Sept. 11, 2026 · WDBJ

Development

Former Walker Foundry site becomes Norwich Town Center homes and a restaurant

Developers are clearing the old Walker Machine and Foundry site in Norwich for the Foundry at Norwich Town Center, WSLS reports — a casual restaurant in a historic building by next summer and more than 100 townhomes in three to four years, about a $50 million build. A TAP-managed Workforce Housing grant can put $50,000 toward down payments for as many as 50 buyers; a model unit is eyed for January 2027.

Thursday, Sept. 10, 2026 · WSLS

Development

Munters cuts ribbon on Botetourt HVAC plant expansion near Google site

Munters Data Center Technology held a ribbon-cutting Thursday on an HVAC manufacturing expansion in Botetourt County near the proposed Google data center campus, WDBJ reports. The company builds cooling systems meant to keep data halls cool with less water; the expansion adds manufacturing capacity plus training space.

Thursday, Sept. 10, 2026 · WDBJ

Schools

Preston Park Elementary opens the year in a new building after years of hallway classrooms

Preston Park Elementary is teaching its first year in a new Roanoke City building after years of hallway and stairwell classrooms, WDBJ reports. Principal Tracey Hoffman said every classroom has its own bathroom, hallways give clear sight lines, and there is an outdoor learning courtyard.

Thursday, Sept. 10, 2026 · WDBJ

Crime

Arrest after a shooting in the 1300 block of Orange Avenue NW

Roanoke police say they were called to the 1300 block of Orange Avenue NW on Monday after a person was shot. The victim was taken to Roanoke Memorial and is in stable condition, WSLS reports. On Tuesday police arrested Richard Eary, 30, on a malicious-wounding charge; he is being held at the Roanoke City Adult Detention Center, and the investigation continues.

Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026 · WSLS

News

Three hurt in early Bent Mountain house fire on Fortune Ridge

Roanoke County Fire and Rescue was called about 1:30 a.m. Tuesday to the 10400 block of Fortune Ridge Road on Bent Mountain and had the fire knocked down in about 45 minutes, WSLS reports. Three people went to Roanoke Memorial with non-life-threatening injuries; one was later flown to VCU Medical Center. Six people, a dog, and a cat are displaced and getting Red Cross help; another cat is still missing.

Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026 · WSLS

News

Carvins Cove is 18.6 feet down. Cardinal's data says not 2002.

Cardinal News, using Western Virginia Water Authority figures, puts Carvins Cove about 18.6 feet below full pond after a missed spring recharge. That is the voluntary-conservation band, still above the 1999 and 2002 drought tracks, and Spring Hollow has taken a larger share as the cove dropped. Google is contracted for 2 million gallons a day and now projects about 1.2 million with air cooling; Cardinal says fall storms usually refill the reservoir.

Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026 · Cardinal News

City Hall

Griffith declines Powers’ three VA-9 debate invites

WDBJ reports Rep. Morgan Griffith confirmed a letter declining Democratic challenger Joy Powers’ Aug. 24 challenge to three debates, saying Ninth District voters already know where he stands and that he would rather campaign town to town than trade lines on a stage.

Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026 · WDBJ

News

Good Samaritan is buying Bedford's hospice house. A CMS freeze is the wait.

WDBJ reports Roanoke-based Good Samaritan Hospice is buying the Bedford Hospice House Centra closed in April. A nationwide CMS freeze on new Medicare hospice enrollments, in effect since May 13 and set to lift in November, is blocking a reopen date. CEO Aaron Housh says once enrollment clears, the house should need only a few weeks.

Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026 · WDBJ

News

I-81 blast window left Thursday, Sept. 24, 9–11 a.m.

Tuesday’s 9–11 a.m. widening blast window on I-81 has passed. Roanoke County still lists Thursday, Sept. 24, 9–11 a.m., when the northbound Exit 146 on-ramp and southbound 150A and 150B ramps close during blasts. Slow rolls can last up to about 15 minutes; weekly notices continue through Oct. 22.

Monday, Sept. 21, 2026 · Roanoke County

Read at Roanoke County

News

Victim of fatal wreck identified as Blacksburg town employee

Headline and link only — we do not reprint that outlet.

Monday, Aug. 31, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

City Hall

Roanoke sued over City Council prayer after Satanic Temple member was refused

WVTF reports Grayson Cotes, 25, sued the city of Roanoke and Vice Mayor Terry McGuire in federal court, asking for $12.2 million. He says City Council would not let him give the opening invocation as a member of the Satanic Temple. Radio IQ says neither the city nor McGuire responded.

Monday, Aug. 31, 2026 · WVTF

Read at WVTF

Around Town

Grandin Theatre is digging a backstage so live shows have somewhere to go

WVTF says the 1932 Grandin Theatre is adding subterranean performer space at the rear of the building: bathrooms, showers, a washer and dryer, and technician rooms, all ADA. Executive director Ian Fortier told Radio IQ movie houses were not built for people or stuff backstage. Showtimes stay up during construction, which the foundation says should wrap before the end of the year.

Monday, Aug. 31, 2026 · WVTF

Read at WVTF

Around Town

Salem Animal Shelter still has Rusty, an 8-year-old looking for a last good home

WSLS says Rusty, an 8-year-old black-and-white pit bull mix, has been at the Salem Animal Shelter since February. He is listed as a hospice foster after a cancerous mass; the shelter says he may have one to two years left, and that he likes people, walks, playtime, and other dogs, but is too curious about cats. If those remaining years sound like your assignment, the listing is on WSLS.

Monday, Aug. 31, 2026 · WSLS

Schools

Franklin names Grunkemeyer starting QB for Saturday vs. VMI

Ethan Grunkemeyer, a Penn State transfer who followed James Franklin to Blacksburg, will start at quarterback Saturday against VMI, WDBJ reports. Franklin told reporters Monday he is preparing the Hokies for VMI's triple option and wants fans in early, through Enter Sandman, and staying all four quarters. Virginia Tech is coming off a 3-9 2025 season.

Monday, Aug. 31, 2026 · WDBJ

Around Town

Knights and Hibernians try to fill a 5,000-pound hole at St. Francis House

WSLS says St. Francis House Food Pantry in Roanoke has watched USDA deliveries drop from more than 8,000 pounds a month in January to below 3,000. Knights of Columbus Council 562 and the Ancient Order of Hibernians are collecting toward 1,500 pounds between them, and the pantry is buying extra to keep the line moving. Drop peanut butter, canned meat, and canned fruit at 820 Campbell Ave. SW, 9 a.m. to noon Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

Monday, Aug. 31, 2026 · WSLS

Around Town

Least of These seeks sponsors for Dining With Dignity on Oct. 10

The Least of These is recruiting corporate sponsors and volunteer waitstaff for its sixth annual Dining With Dignity, Saturday, Oct. 10 at 5 p.m. at Elmwood Park. WFIR says the outdoor meal is for unsheltered residents only, not a public ticketed dinner, with waitstaff and menu choices. The downtown ministry says it runs Luck Avenue services without state or federal tax dollars.

Monday, Aug. 31, 2026 · WFIR

Around Town

Roanoke College paints the Blue Ridge onto Ayres Hall in Salem

Local artist Nicole Gray finished a 60-foot Blue Ridge mural on the north side of Ayres Hall at College Avenue and Clay Street, Roanoke College says. It is her first solo mural, from a concept by college designer James France, and it was done Aug. 17 before students came back. The college says it is the second large campus work after Jon Murrill's 2025 hawk mural at Maroon Village.

Monday, Aug. 31, 2026 · Roanoke College

Read at Roanoke College

Crime

Sheriff's Office warns of callers impersonating deputies after arrests

The Roanoke City Sheriff's Office says scammers are calling relatives of people just arrested, posing as deputies, and demanding money for bond or release through Venmo, Cash App, gift cards, or other electronic pay. The office says at least one person has already lost money. Deputies will not call and demand payment over the phone to get someone out of jail.

Monday, Aug. 31, 2026 · WDBJ

Read at Virginia Business

Development

State budget funds VTC medical school expansion in Roanoke

Virginia's biennial budget funds a new building for the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine and renovations to the current space for the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute. Virginia Business reports $13 million over two years for enrollment growth and in-state tuition support, enough to take the school from 222 students toward about 400, plus $14 million for the Virginia Tech Patient Research Center. Another $250,000 goes to study a regional biomedical high school.

Sunday, Aug. 30, 2026 · Virginia Business

Around Town

Insect Fest ran free at Explore Park Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Roanoke County's Explore Park ran Insect Fest Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the visitor center courtyard, 56 Roanoke River Parkway. Visit VBR listed stations for monarchs, beetles, fireflies, a trail bug hunt, story time, and booths from master gardeners, beekeepers, and the bird club. Free. We did not hand out the snack prizes.

Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026 · Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge

Read at Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge

Around Town

Salem pulls away from E.C. Glass 35-17 after a kickoff punch

Salem beat E.C. Glass 35-17 on Friday after giving up a touchdown on the opening kickoff. WSLS says Jordan McCadden scored in the third and again in the fourth, and Jayden Wood intercepted a tipped pass to close it. Coach Don Holter called it more grit than polish.

Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026 · WSLS

Around Town

William Byrd rallies past Cave Spring 20-14 on a 96-yard run

William Byrd beat Cave Spring 20-14 on Friday at Bogle Stadium. WSLS says the teams were tied 6-6 at half; Cave Spring went up 14-6 before the Terriers answered, then Gray Matthews broke a 96-yard run for the lead. County rivalry, Week 1, already loud.

Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026 · WSLS

Food & Drink

Taco Fest proceeds at Elmwood went to Huddle Up Moms

Taco Fest ran Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Elmwood Park. WDBJ says ticket sales and vendor fees covered the day, and leftover proceeds go to Huddle Up Moms for rent help, its diaper dash, and a van to get diapers to mothers without a ride. Live music, a beer garden, and a kids' area were part of the mix.

Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026 · WDBJ

Around Town

Salem VA VetFest served more than 250 veterans, with 50 new enrollments

WDBJ says the Salem VA Health Care System's first summer VetFest served more than 250 veterans Saturday, including more than 50 new enrollments. Same-day primary care, mental health, and benefits claims were on offer. Staff hope it comes back next year.

Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026 · WDBJ

City Hall

Lynchburg prosecutor finds no crime or FOIA breach by Franklin County leaders

Lynchburg Commonwealth's Attorney Bethany Harrison, assigned to avoid a conflict, found no criminal conduct or FOIA violations by Franklin County Board Chair Lorie Smith, Vice Chair Nick Mitchell, or County Administrator Steven Sandy. An anonymous July complaint alleged email vote-polling and agenda-setting that left other supervisors out. Harrison said the record did not support a State Police inquiry.

Friday, Aug. 28, 2026 · WDBJ

Development

Judge lets Franklin County's Constitution Solar project proceed

A Franklin County Circuit Court judge approved the more than 35-acre Constitution Solar project in the Henry community after supervisors voted it down 5-1 in December. WSLS reports the site is unzoned and the comprehensive plan already sets aside 1,500 acres for solar, so the court found no legal basis to block it. Blue Ridge Supervisor Tim Tatum said the no vote was meant as a statement about who pays for cleanup when the farm is done.

Friday, Aug. 28, 2026 · WSLS

News

Salem crash survivor lobbies Capitol Hill for truck braking rules

Anna Guardipee of Salem, paralyzed from the chest down in a October 2019 crash when a semi hit her SUV in a construction zone, is pressing Congress with the Truck Safety Coalition for mandatory automatic emergency braking and speed limiters on big rigs. Her passenger and friend Jennifer Burton died days later. WDBJ reports the driver was sentenced to 10 months.

Friday, Aug. 28, 2026 · WDBJ

Schools

Virginia Tech opens a counter-drone test center at Kentland Farm

Virginia Tech cut the ribbon Friday on a Counter-UAS Testing and Research Center at Kentland Farm in Blacksburg. WSLS reports Sen. Mark Warner, Rep. Morgan Griffith, and President Tim Sands were there; the National Security Institute and Mid-Atlantic Aviation Partnership will test sensors that detect, track, and identify small drones, with the U.S. Army as a partner. Students start using the outdoor site this semester.

Friday, Aug. 28, 2026 · WSLS

City Hall

City is pulling the temporary skate ramps out of Morningside Park

Parks and Recreation will remove the portable skate features at Morningside Park after an inspection found rot and lifting that made them unsafe to keep anchored. The ramps moved from the old Wasena skatepark in spring 2024 while the new regional park was built. The city says they are past repair; access is already restricted.

Friday, Aug. 28, 2026 · City of Roanoke

Read at Smith Mountain Lake Association

Around Town

Smith Mountain Lake turns 60 with a sock hop at the YMCA on Sept. 5

The lake hit full pond 60 years ago. The Smith Mountain Lake Association and Arts Council are throwing a 21-and-up sock hop Saturday, Sept. 5, 5:30–7:30 p.m. at the SML YMCA in Moneta. Retro optional. Tickets in advance; none at the door.

Friday, Aug. 28, 2026 · Smith Mountain Lake Association

Development

Botetourt clears Google to start grading its Greenfield data center site

Botetourt County says Google has a land-disturbance permit and can begin phased grading on a 312-acre site at the Botetourt Center at Greenfield. WDBJ reports wetlands will not be disturbed, intermittent blasting is expected under state fire marshal rules, and construction noise is barred from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. DEQ still handles other environmental permits; county updates are at bocodatacenter.com.

Friday, Aug. 28, 2026 · WDBJ

Around Town

The Exchange is filling fall: Poe cocktails, Lettuce, Maggie Rose, Futurebirds

Across the Way opened the Exchange on New Year's Eve with Grace Potter and, WFIR reports, is packing the rest of 2026. On the board: an Edgar Allan Poe speakeasy Sept. 10–12, the Lettuce Cook Tour Oct. 1, Maggie Rose Oct. 8, Futurebirds Nov. 20, and two nights of Greensky Bluegrass. Tickets at theexchange.com; they have started booking 2027.

Friday, Aug. 28, 2026 · WFIR

Schools

Franklin's first Hokie kickoff is Sept. 5 against VMI, a 42-year pause

Virginia Tech opens James Franklin's tenure Sept. 5 in Blacksburg against VMI, a series WFIR says last met 42 years ago and dates to 1894. The last Roanoke date was Thanksgiving 1971 at Victory Stadium, when the Governor's Sword was the trophy. VMI is bringing cadets; Tech's Corps still has the sword.

Friday, Aug. 28, 2026 · WFIR

City Hall

City Council candidates weigh in on Flock, the budget, and schools

Headline and link only — we do not reprint that outlet.

Friday, Aug. 28, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

Schools

RCPS superintendent wants less screen time in the early grades

Parents pressed the Virginia Board of Education on Thursday for stricter classroom screen limits. Cardinal News reports Roanoke County’s new superintendent, Jamie Soltis, has asked staff to audit the laptop program and cut device time in kindergarten through second grade. A Roanoke-area mom on the state’s Reclaiming Childhood Task Force is also pushing for paper SOL options.

Friday, Aug. 28, 2026 · Cardinal News

City Hall

Mayor Cobb touts crime reduction and $1 billion in business investment

Headline and link only — we do not reprint that outlet.

Friday, Aug. 28, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

Crime

Man charged with robbery after LPR track from the 1700 block of Hershberger

Roanoke police say a robbery Thursday in the 1700 block of Hershberger Road left the suspect gone when officers arrived. WSLS reports iSTAR used license-plate readers to find a vehicle address; Timothy Ralph Boyd, 58, was arrested there and charged with robbery. He is being held at the Roanoke City Jail.

Friday, Aug. 28, 2026 · WSLS

News

Overnight flood advisory for Roanoke, Vinton, and Hollins has expired

NWS Blacksburg’s flood advisory for the City of Roanoke, northeastern Roanoke County, and southwestern Botetourt ended at 3:15 a.m. No active weather alerts remain for Roanoke as of early Friday. Overnight storms brought heavy rain and ponding risk in low-lying areas including Roanoke, Vinton, Hollins, Cloverdale, Troutville, and Laymantown.

Friday, Aug. 28, 2026 · NWS Blacksburg

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Around Town

VIA Centers opened a pediatric ABA clinic on Whitwell Drive

VIA Centers for Neurodevelopment held a grand opening Thursday for a Pediatric ABA clinic at 312 Whitwell Drive, next to its Roanoke Day School. The program is for children 18 months to 6 with autism or other developmental delays; Cardinal News said families were already enrolled. VIA is based in Charlottesville and also runs campuses in Lynchburg and Lexington.

Friday, Aug. 28, 2026 · WFXR

City Hall

County GIS outage window ended at 7 p.m. Saturday

Roanoke County's planned Enterprise GIS outage window ended at 7 p.m. Saturday. Maps were set for intermittent outages from 7 p.m. Friday through that hour for service updates. If something is still down, the county asks users to open a ServiceDesk ticket.

Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026 · Roanoke County

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Around Town

Wildlife Center's Night Owl gala is Sept. 19. Silent auction opens Sept. 4.

Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center in Roanoke is gearing up for Night Owl on the Town, its biggest fundraiser, set for Sept. 19, WFXR reports. The silent auction opens for bids Friday, Sept. 4, with gala tickets sold through Sept. 14. The center says it is the only federally licensed wildlife veterinary hospital covering this stretch of the state, and the gala usually pulls about a sixth of the annual budget.

Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026 · WFXR

Development

Rowe Furniture's Elliston warehouse sold for $32 million

Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer arranged the sale of the 378,720-square-foot Rowe Furniture Distribution Center at 2121 Gardiner Street in Elliston, WSLS reports. Manakin Holdings, a Virginia family office, bought it Aug. 21 for $32 million. The building sits on the I-81 corridor west of Salem.

Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026 · WSLS

Around Town

Salem Lions want 125 kids on bikes next school year

Salem Lions Wheels of Hope, run through Salem Area Ministries, plans to hand 125 bikes and safety gear to Salem elementary students starting in 2026-27, WFXR reports. School staff will pick kids who need one; the bike is theirs after that. Stadium concession money is backing it, and they want Salem police, parks rec, and the Roanoke College cycling club in on the safety lessons.

Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026 · WFXR

Crime

Mayor Cobb says downtown crime dropped 50% this year

At Thursday's State of the City, Mayor Joseph Cobb said crime in downtown Roanoke is down 50% this year, WDBJ reports. A police report on the first half of 2026 put the city at nine homicides year-to-date, matching all of 2025: seven in the first three months, one from April through June, and two since July 1.

Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026 · WDBJ

Development

FOIA records: Franklin County talked with Crusoe AI before Project Flash died

Project Flash at Summit View Business Park in Rocky Mount is off after more than a week of public pushback. WSLS reports FOIA records show Franklin County had talked for months with Crusoe AI, which builds AI infrastructure and prefab data-center units, and that power talks with Appalachian Power had started. County officials remain under an NDA and say they are not specifically hunting a data center for the site.

Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026 · WSLS

Development

The Least of These is renovating a house it bought for affordable rent

The Roanoke ministry bought a home in October and is renovating it for individuals, couples, and families leaving its motel program, WSLS reports. Founder Dawn Sandoval says owning the place lets the group set rent instead of depending on outside landlords, and Renovation Alliance is helping. No completion date yet; organizers want cash and discounted HVAC and plumbing help. The Board of Zoning Appeals recently upheld zoning violations against the ministry.

Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026 · WSLS

News

Roanoke Amtrak drops to one round trip Oct. 16–26 for D.C. tunnel work

Amtrak's Pause for Progress tunnel work in Washington will cut Roanoke's twice-daily Northeast Regional to one daily round trip to Alexandria from Oct. 16 through Oct. 25, with service back Oct. 26, Cardinal News reports. The afternoon Roanoke departure is canceled; the morning train leaves at 9:48 a.m. and returns at 10:23 p.m. An Amtrak Virginia Express bus will run one daily Roanoke–Lynchburg–Washington round trip; Crescent stops in Danville and Lynchburg are out for the window.

Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026 · Cardinal News

City Hall

Mayor Cobb says legacy businesses are keeping the city strong

Mayor Joseph Cobb delivered the 2026 State of the City at Hotel Roanoke this morning after a 7:30 a.m. chamber breakfast. WFIR reports Cobb said legacy businesses are helping keep the city strong. The city streamed it on YouTube, with RVTV replays planned.

Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026 · WFIR

Development

Christiansburg's passenger-rail station is on the state's $8.4M ARC list

Governor Spanberger recommended about $8.4 million in 2026 Appalachian Regional Commission grants for Southwest Virginia. WDBJ reports the New River Valley Regional Commission's Christiansburg passenger-rail station project is recommended for $1 million, with Radford's New River Crossing also listed. Federal commission approval still has to clear.

Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026 · WDBJ

News

Giles County will stop using Flock cameras now and end the contract Oct. 16

The Giles County Sheriff's Office will stop using Flock Safety immediately and end the contract Oct. 16, a year early, WSLS reports. Chief Deputy Scott Moye said public feedback drove the call and that the office had been working toward the announcement for about three weeks. One of the two county cameras was stolen and thrown off a bridge.

Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026 · WSLS

Schools

Virginia Tech board advances smaller on-campus housing projects

After scrapping a larger Student Life Village, Virginia Tech's Board of Visitors on Wednesday approved new dorms for about 1,200 beds near the Inn at Virginia Tech and phased renovations of Campbell, Hoge, Pritchard, and Slusher halls. Cardinal News reports the package tops $400 million, with Slusher no longer getting extra beds after a foundation-load snag. Blacksburg's mayor backed more on-campus beds as enrollment pressure hits town housing.

Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026 · Cardinal News

News

Christiansburg Town Council votes 6-0 to end its Flock camera contract

Christiansburg Town Council voted 6-0 Tuesday night to terminate the town's contract with Flock Safety and take the license-plate cameras down. Councilwoman Kim Bowman made the motion; Johana Hicks seconded and said the issue is the data system, not the police department. WSLS reports the town has not said which cameras come down first or when — some in town are privately owned.

Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2026 · WSLS

City Hall

City Council candidates face voters at a Greater Deyerle forum

Seven candidates for three Roanoke City Council seats are on the docket for a Greater Deyerle Neighborhood Association forum at Covenant Presbyterian Church on Thursday, Aug. 27. Meet-and-greet is at 6:30 p.m.; moderated Q&A starts at 7. The general election is Nov. 3.

Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026 · Cardinal News

Development

Botetourt board approves a waterline for the Dal-Nita Hills subdivision

Headline and link only — we do not reprint that outlet.

Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

News

Multi-vehicle crash near Business U.S. 220 is cleared

VDOT told WSLS the multi-vehicle crash near the ramp to Business U.S. 220 has been cleared. Earlier Wednesday, northbound lanes were closed with about a mile of backup as of 11:15 a.m.

Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2026 · WSLS

Read at Virginia Tech News

News

VTC medical school cuts in-state tuition by $15,000 a year

The Virginia Tech Board of Visitors approved a $15,000-a-year cut in the in-state tuition rate at the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine in Roanoke — 23.4 percent below the nonresident rate — starting this fall. The university says $6.5 million a year in new state operating money is what makes a resident rate possible. The school wants about half of each class to be Virginians.

Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2026 · Virginia Tech News

News

Water authority says it is 'very comfortable' supplying Google's Botetourt data center

Headline and link only — we do not reprint that outlet.

Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2026 · The Roanoke Times

News

Daleville blasting for Project GVO is coming. The letters missed some front yards.

WSLS reports Carolina Drilling told Daleville and Troutville residents that controlled blasting for Project GVO starts in mid-September, weekdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and is expected to last at least a year. Neighbors next to the site say they did not get the letter; wells are the worry. The contractors did not comment on camera.

Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2026 · WSLS

News

A Canvas breach reached valley schools. RCPS briefed the board on the next one.

The Roanoke Rambler reports a spring Canvas attack attributed to ShinyHunters hit Roanoke City and Roanoke County schools, exposing names, emails, student IDs, and message histories. RCPS told the School Board this week it has layered email filters, endpoint software, and an audit of cameras and other devices on the network. Virginia Western's cybersecurity center says most of the holes still start with people, not magic.

Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2026 · The Roanoke Rambler

News

Carvins Cove keeps dropping while the rest of Virginia's drought map eases

The Roanoke Rambler reports Carvins Cove sat about 17.5 feet below full pond in mid-August, down four feet in two months. The state's Roanoke drought region has been in emergency status since July 7 even as the national map looks milder. Spring Hollow is holding better; household cuts are still voluntary.

Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2026 · The Roanoke Rambler

News

Virginia Tech board takes up a $15 million athletics loan

The Board of Visitors is discussing a university loan of more than $15 million to Hokie Ventures, a nonprofit tied to athletics. WDBJ reports the Athletics Committee took it up in Blacksburg this week; the Hokie Ventures board meets in September.

Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2026 · WDBJ

News

Belleview by the hospital stays closed into summer 2027

Carilion told the Roanoke Rambler the West Pavilion brick repair at Roanoke Memorial will run through summer 2027, and Belleview Avenue stays shut until the street is safe to reopen. The detour off Jefferson has been in place since June 2025. If you are going to the Level I, budget the extra turn.

Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2026 · The Roanoke Rambler

News

Water Authority opens the shop door on Hollins Road

The Western Virginia Water Authority invited City of Roanoke and nearby county customers to a Tuesday open house at its Hollins Road field operations building. WFXR says staff planned to talk supply, treatment, and the longer options for keeping the valley's taps honest. Carvins Cove is still the reservoir in that sentence.

Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2026 · WFXR

News

Williamson Road overnight milling starts — Orange to Malvern

The city is milling and paving Williamson Road from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. between Orange Avenue and the city limit near Malvern Road, WFXR reports. It is part of Envision Williamson Road and is listed through early October. If you use that stretch after supper, leave earlier or don't.

Monday, Aug. 24, 2026 · WFXR

News

A new Walmart bus stop, years in the making

Headline and link only — we do not reprint that outlet.

Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026 · The Roanoke Times