Daily
Roanoke
Wednesday, March 18th, 2026
Good morning, Roanoke. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 18th of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Local restaurants in Roanoke and Salem were busy on St. Patrick's Day, boosting sales after winter closures. Business owners noted the crowded scene & promising growth as festivities continued with live bands and drink specials. WSLS 10
- ➤ A weekly events guide for Roanoke is available, featuring diverse activities—like live music, theater, and family events—from March 18 to March 25. Check local venues for updates. The Roanoke Rambler
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ The Greater Williamson Road Area Business Association has launched Restaurant Week today along a 4-mile stretch from Orange Avenue to Hershberger Road, inviting locals to enjoy offerings from 48 international eateries until Tuesday, Mar. 24 — a chance to win a $500 voucher from Roanoke-Blacksburg Airport. WFIR News
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Northside High School stated Tuesday that Vikings boys basketball coach Bill Pope is retiring after 46 years in coaching — his record includes 680 wins, 17 district championships, eight regionals and three state titles. WSLS 10
- ➤ State education leaders visited Roanoke Valley on Tuesday, Mar. 17 to share updates on new academic policies and meet with local educators. WDBJ7
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Officials confirmed that an EF-0 tornado touched down in Martinsville Monday morning at 10:42 a.m. along Commonwealth Boulevard and Fairy Street, snapping trees and toppling two power poles before lifting at 10:45 a.m.; nearly all affected customers now have power restored. Cardinal News
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Roanoke parents are asking for clearer school budget details as Mayor Joe Cobb said the city council and school board are working together (aiming to repair their relationship) to address concerns. Roanoke.com
- ➤ Roanoke officials are seeking a management firm to run the Jefferson Center’s operations, improve use and financial oversight plus address repair needs. The request for proposals was issued on Mar. 4 with a June 2 deadline to help secure long-term support for the historic venue. The Roanoke Rambler
- ➤ On March 2, Valley Metro drivers refused overtime during contract talks, causing a brief service stop that affected about 25 riders; city officials plan a June 8 public comment session at Third Street Station — they are negotiating a fare increase to $2 to cover rising costs. The Roanoke Rambler
- ➤ Salem officials urged residents to check preliminary FEMA flood maps that may change insurance costs and permit rules; they held a meeting Tuesday + will host another on March 19, 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at City Hall so property owners can review and submit comments. WSLS 10
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ A federal judge in Roanoke blocked HR Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s effort to change the childhood vaccine schedule after ruling the CDC's January overhaul did not follow proper legal channels plus his move to replace 17 advisory committee members violated federal law. WDBJ7
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Blippi: Be Like Blippi Tour
6-9 p.m. — Salem Civic Center — Tickets from $27 — Experience an interactive live show with Blippi filled with music, laughter, and curiosity-igniting adventures.
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Runaway Gin - A Tribute to Phish
8-11 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Tickets available — Experience an unforgettable night with the world’s most notable Phish tribute band.
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A Taste of Ireland
8:00 PM – 11:59 PM — Harvester Performance Center — Ticketed event — Experience the vibrant spirit of Ireland through music, dance, and heartfelt storytelling.
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Jeffrey Lewis & The Voltage Live
7:30-10 p.m. — The Spot on Kirk — Ticket prices vary — Experience the mind-spinning indie rock and folk artistry of Jeffrey Lewis & The Voltage.
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MDA Cruise In Car Show
10 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Salem Civic Center — Free admission — Celebrate 45 years of automotive passion at this final community car show.
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Disco Diner: A Tribute to Widespread Panic
8-11 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Check event page for costs — Experience a high-energy tribute to Widespread Panic featuring talented local musicians.
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Chirp at The Spot on Kirk
7-10:30 p.m. — The Spot on Kirk — Check website for details — Experience a night of progressive rock and funk with Ann Arbor's own Chirp.
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Squeaky Feet Jam Band Performance
6:30-9:30 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Ticket prices vary — Experience the full-flavor sonic marinade of a modern jam band from Denver.
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That's So 70's Live Concert
7:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. — Mill Mountain Theatre — Group discounts available — A high-energy celebration of 1970s music featuring the best disco hits, classic rock anthems, and funk grooves.
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Local Author Fair
Join us for the Local Author Fair on April 11 from 11–2 at the South County Library, where you can meet local authors, explore a variety of books, and hear the stories behind their work. It’s a great opportunity to connect with the writing community, discover new reads, and support local talent.
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