Good morning, Roanoke.

Roanoke police honored K-9 Knox—who died in the line of duty last week—for his unwavering dedication at the Berglund Center Coliseum on Friday.

Morning Star Baptist Church invites community members to join the National Day of Prayer event on May 1 at noon at 1513 Rorer Ave. in SW.

Local leaders and pastors will present prayer requests for our nation, state, city, and school system — and to-go lunches will be served after the service.

City of Roanoke held its monthly business breakfast where business owners shared their ideas and concerns to help guide a united push for local growth.

The meeting also spotlighted new downtown improvements & cultural attractions aimed at engaging youth and boosting community progress.

The first-ever Screamiverse Expo at Berglund Center in Roanoke took place Saturday — featuring horror, sci-fi, music and art with actor appearances and vendor booths — and will continue today from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Drummer Shavante Hughes said he grew up in Roanoke and Franklin County and learned strong values from his grandparents—values that helped him leave a boys’ home job in 2021 to join the Eric Wayne Band after finding an audition on social media.

He also expressed hope that more will be done to reduce crime in his hometown.

LEAP and the City of Roanoke launched Solarize Virginia — a program that offers free solar assessments and discounted rates until July 15 — with Convert Solar chosen as the installer for 2025 to help homeowners and businesses reduce energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions.

Franklin County has seen a drop in volunteer EMS responders and firefighters so officials have hired nearly 60 paid EMS staff to handle growing call volumes.

Recruitment efforts with firefighter training and community outreach continue as volunteer numbers shrink — volunteers are needed to prevent further strain on county budgets.

Roanoke law enforcement partnered with the DEA on National Drug Take Back Day to offer a safe way for residents to dispose of unused prescription and over-the-counter drugs— this initiative aims to reduce opioid misuse and prevent environmental harm.

Carilion Clinic in Roanoke is expanding its site with a new emergency department that will open in July — the facility will include extra patient rooms, a dedicated pediatric waiting area, and the region’s first level 1 pediatric bay.

The expansion will also add an in-house blood refrigerator — officials say the upgrade will help meet growing local healthcare needs.

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.

Miniatures on the Market

Come see miniature farm animals on the market outside Center in the Square. Petting Zoo, Pony Rides and Face Painting!

Lenny Marcus Live Performance

7 PM — Montano's International Gourmet — Tickets required — Enjoy an evening of soulful music with D.C.'s own Lenny Marcus accompanied by multiple instruments.

Cinderella - Roanoke Ballet Theatre

3:00 – 4:30 PM — Jefferson Center — Ticket information available — Experience a vibrant rendition of the classic fairy tale set to Prokofiev's enchanting score.

Them Coulee Boys Concert

6:30-10:30 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Ticket prices may vary — Experience a lively performance by the eclectic quintet blending various music styles.

Strawberry Festival

2:30-8:30 p.m. — The Farmers' Market at Citizen Square — Free entry — Enjoy fresh strawberries, ice cream, and family-friendly activities including bounce houses and face painting.

Kiwanis Pancake and Auction Day

7:00 AM - 12:30 PM — Berglund Center — Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Roanoke's largest civic organization's 30th annual pancake event.

Sunday School with Pastor Phil

11:00 a.m. — Church — Free entry — Explore Christian training through the Way of Love with Pastor Phil.

Van Morrison Tribute Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Ticket information not provided — Enjoy a captivating journey through the timeless music of Van Morrison with Pat Garvey's One Irish Rover.

Scott Robertson Memorial Golf Tournament

One of the largest Junior Golf Tournaments in the USA - players from 8 different countries + USA Rated as a top 10 event in the country! A chance to see the future of PGA and LPGA tours @ Roanoke Country Club. Thanks!