Good morning, Roanoke.

Today, National Pay It Forward Day, students at John.

P. Fishwick Middle School (located in southeast Roanoke) handed out candy, goodie bags and positive messages to passersby. The community service club meets nearly every Monday and earned a neighborhood youth volunteer award (in 2021), showing local kindness in action.

Local experts said Roanoke hikers should carry key safety items like proper footwear, a flashlight not on a phone, enough food, fluids and quick-dry clothing—helping them avoid emergencies on steep, rugged trails.

Increased trail use has led to more calls for rescue, prompting officials to stress that the right gear can make a big difference.

A teenage boy was charged with reckless driving after his black SUV crashed into a home on Routt Road Northwest in Roanoke on Saturday night—emergency crews rushed to the scene near William Fleming High School and took him and his passenger to the hospital while the house was declared uninhabitable.

Average gasoline prices in Virginia fell 4.4 cents per gallon in the last week and averaged $2.98 on Monday, according to a GasBuddy survey (4,081 stations reported data).

Prices were 1.6 cents per gallon higher a month ago and 50.3 cents per gallon lower than a year ago (the national average remained at $3.10 on Monday).

North Cross Middle School’s robotics team won the Virginia State KidWind Challenge on April 12 at James Madison University by upgrading their chicken coop with solar panels and cameras, and the ten-member team will compete in the World KidWind Challenge in Phoenix from May 18—21.

They will also present their project on campus on May 12 at 8:15 a.m. in Fishburn Auditorium.

Sterile grass carp that were put in the lake in 2013 to eat invasive hydrilla are now dying, and officials are debating if and when to add more in smaller numbers—fishing enthusiasts worry that more carp could remove the natural cover needed for fish.

Local experts say any decision to restock will depend on how much hydrilla returns and impacts recreation at the lake.

Roanoke County will hold community meetings at Fort Lewis Elementary School (3115 West Main Street, Salem) on April 30 and May 7 from 5 to 7 p.m. to gather views on the Glenvar Center Plan that will study land use, housing, community facilities, transportation and natural and cultural resources in the area; an online survey will open April 30 until May 30 with paper copies available at the meetings and Glenvar Library as the county plans a second round of meetings in the fall.

New data shows that Roanoke City was ranked second nationally for nonfatal opioid and stimulant overdoses while Galax and Richmond also reported high rates.

The Governor ordered flags flown at half-staff today on Fentanyl Awareness Day to honor those affected by the crisis.

Roanoke community members walked at Salem Civic Center on Saturday evening to honor lives lost to cancer and support survivors at the annual Blue Ridge Relay for Life.

The event benefits the American Cancer Society and has raised over $81,000 with a goal of $100,000 by summer — the walk began 33 years ago and remains a key local fundraiser.

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!