Thursday, April 17th, 2025
Good morning, Roanoke. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 17th of April.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Allsports Café in Roanoke marks its 25th anniversary as owner Julie Atkins honors her late husband Kenneth while overcoming challenges from COVID and personal loss—she thanked customers, staff, and vendors for their support. The family-run restaurant celebrated a milestone that reflects years of food, fun, and community. WSLS 10
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Roanoke Police seek help finding a missing 15-year-old girl named Zahrra Ahmed (5'4, 126 lbs) with a scar on her left wrist and pierced ears who was last seen in the 700 block of Old Vinton Mill Rd NE on Tuesday at 10:30 p.m. and urge anyone with information to call 540-344-8500. WSLS 10
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ A nonprofit has launched an independent review of Roanoke County Public Schools and Mountain View Elementary School after 10-year-old Autumn Bushman died less than a month ago—officials say the investigation will focus on bullying policies and gaps in mental health support. ABC 13
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Today, Valley Metro unveiled Roanoke’s first electric bus featuring a custom wrap by 5Points Creative that shows local sustainability. Three fully battery-powered buses built by GILLIG traveled cross-country—cutting emissions for a greener future—and will improve public transit reliability. WSLS 10
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ A new treatment center at The Grove on Patterson in Roanoke is accepting patients to help mothers battling drug addiction and fill the gap since Bethany Hall closed two years ago—women will receive 120 to 180 days of round-the-clock care from Andersen Treatment and the center expects its first patient on May 5. The facility also aims to strengthen family bonds through comprehensive recovery programs. WFXR-TV
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Spafford Live at 5 Points Music Sanctuary
6:30-11:00 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Tickets required — Experience an evening of astonishing improvisational jams with one of the most creative bands on the contemporary jam scene.
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Longshot Comic & Toy Show
10 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Salem Civic Center — $5.00 admission, kids free — Explore comics, toys, collectibles, and enjoy some cosplay fun.
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Star City Circlesongs
3:30-5 p.m. — Historic Fishburn Mansion — Free entry — Experience a spontaneous community singing event that invites everyone to express their inner voice.
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The Great Gatsby Ballet
7 p.m. — Jefferson Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the glitz and glamour of the 1920s in this dazzling ballet adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic tale.
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Amos Lee Concert
7:30-9 p.m. — Jefferson Center — Cost info not provided — Experience emotionally raw music with a magical quality from Amos Lee.
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CoComelon Live! in Roanoke
6-7:30 p.m. — Berglund Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a thrilling live sing-along adventure with CoComelon's JJ and friends on stage.
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Afro-Cuban Dance Party with Jstop Latin Soul
9:30-11:30 p.m. — Martin's Downtown — $10 Cover — Roanoke, get ready to move with vibrant Afro-Cuban rhythms and a lively dance floor atmosphere.
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Music Road Co
5:45-7:15 p.m. — Black Dog Salvage — Ticket info available online — Enjoy a local music experience in a vibrant setting.
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April Speed Dating Event
5-8 p.m. — Bubba's 33 — $20 cash at the door — Enjoy a fun evening of quick conversations and the chance to meet potential matches.
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Spring Conference Showcase by Virginia Sheriffs' Association 2025
Apr 30- May 1 — The Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center — Free entry — Discover integrated software solutions aimed at enhancing law enforcement efficiency and safety.
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