Good morning, Roanoke.

Today, the Williamson Road Library Branch opened Plaza de Esperanza, a playground featuring Spanish signage and elements that mirror local businesses (funded by a $2.9 million federal Safer Communities grant).

Amber Lowery, the libraries director, cut the ribbon at the branch.

Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport will push ahead with interior expansion projects despite missing state funding, as work will shift TSA operations to a new area and create an additional gate for incoming Dallas flights.

Officials hired an architect and plan to award a construction contract in coming weeks — work is set to begin late this year or early next year.

Botetourt County is moving forward with Google’s plan to build a data center campus of three buildings at Greenfield Industrial Park.

Grading will begin late spring, and the project is expected to generate at least 150 permanent jobs & boost regional economic growth.

Roanoke schools will cut 170 positions next year to close a budget gap, reducing staff by about 7%.

The VTCSOM symposium held Friday showcased upcoming graduates sharing four years of research on human health topics, including Lily Brouwer’s study of how diet and BMI affect brain inflammation.

Associate Dean Leslie LaConte said the event demonstrated inquiry skills vital for patient care.

The VA Department of Wildlife Resources advises residents to secure trash, pet food, and birdfeeders as black bears search for easy meals this spring — following BearWise guidelines to prevent encounters.

Governor Spanberger proclaimed March 26 as Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day to honor over 16,000 military pioneers from World War II — many of whom had Virginia roots.

The proclamation emphasizes their historic service in advancing equal opportunity.

Roanoke health officials are watching a new COVID variant called Cicada after it was found in wastewater in more than two dozen states; experts say it is too early to know if vaccines will hold or if a summer surge may come.

Fans flocked to Martinsville Speedway on Friday to kick off NASCAR’s iconic short-track weekend and gear up for tomorrow’s Cook Out 400, with many enjoying close-up racing action and local hot dogs — a longtime favorite among race-goers.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

2nd Ever Screamiverse Expo

10 AM - 5 PM — Terror Manor — Check website for entry details — Explore the haunted tour with music in a lively midway atmosphere.

Gareth Pearson Live Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Spot on Kirk — Ticket prices vary — Experience the explosive fingerstyle guitar mastery of The Welsh Tornado, Gareth Pearson.

Leonard Blush and the Camelcals

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Parkway Brewing Company — Not specified — Experience a vibrant rock and roll performance by a versatile live band from Roanoke, Virginia.

Roanoke Valley Holistic Expo

10 AM – 5 PM — Salem Civic Center — Free admission — Experience a day of holistic discovery with inspiring vendors and wellness activities.