Daily
Roanoke
Thursday, March 19th, 2026
Good morning, Roanoke. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 19th of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Roanoke Sheriff’s Office provided food and supplies to homeless individuals on Mar. 18 near downtown — meeting urgent needs. The outreach continues to support locals facing unstable housing. WDBJ7
- ➤ On Mar. 18, the Roanoke Sheriff’s Office provided free necessities (including food and clothing) to local homeless residents, supporting vulnerable community members amid ongoing challenges. WDBJ7
- ➤ Rush Homes is hosting a fundraiser to build small, accessible backyard units to support independence for people with disabilities, using five space-themed playhouses donated by local builders (each valued at roughly $7,500). The nonprofit has 120 new homes in development with a waiting list of over 580 families. WSLS 10
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ After its recent restoration, a local mid-century landmark is set to host spring events with guided tours and community gatherings. The renovated venue offers a bright look at historic architecture plus a fresh stage for local culture. WDBJ7
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ The Salem Yokohama tire plant closed Wednesday, March 18 after nearly 60 years of production, leaving about 400 workers without jobs. The city is working with federal, state, and regional partners (including the Roanoke Regional Workforce Development Board) to help affected employees find new opportunities. WDBJ7
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Eligible juniors and seniors at Roanoke Catholic School will enroll in Explore@RC, a dual-enrollment program with Roanoke College that starts at the beginning of the academic year. Students will spend half the day in college courses and can earn transferable credits or an associate’s degree (pending approval). WDBJ7
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Recent rain and snow raised Carvins Cove reservoir levels by 2.5 feet since mid-February, helping Western Virginia Water Authority manage drought conditions & lower flash flooding risks through rigorous filtration for safe drinking water. WSLS 10
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Advocates for better nursing home care welcome new state rules — these laws require the Department of Health to review ownership transfers while addressing concerns over potential budget cuts. The bills passed unanimously and await Governor Spanberger’s signature by April 13. WVTF
- ➤ Dominion Energy & AEP plan a 115-mile Valley Link power line through nine counties to meet energy needs. 300 residents attended a Fluvanna meeting on March 18, voicing concerns; sessions in Goochland on March 23 and Dillwyn on March 24 come as companies plan to file their request in September. WVTF
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Roanoke residents can boost muscle health by spreading protein intake across meals, with registered dietitian Julia Zumpano (Cleveland Clinic) advising options like Greek yogurt, eggs, lean meats and plant-based sources available at the grocery store. Proper planning helps meet daily protein needs. WDBJ7
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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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Shakedown Citi - Grateful Dead Tribute
6:30-9:30 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Tickets available — Experience the vibrant sounds of Shakedown Citi, a Grateful Dead tribute known for their high-energy performances and unique setlists.
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