Good morning, Roanoke.

The Strawberry Festival begins today at 11 a.m. at Elmwood Park and will run through Saturday, May 3, offering handcrafted treats and artisan vendors while raising funds for Community School programs.

Organizers expect 20,000 people to attend and volunteers have prepared shortcakes and fresh berries—honoring a cherished Roanoke tradition.

Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport will offer daily flights to Chicago operated by American Airlines beginning in August, adding another direct route from the airport.

Tickets can be booked starting May 5 — offering travelers more connections to American's global network.

Virginia State Police issued a CODI Alert for missing 17-year-old Joseph Armando Rodriguez-Cornelio, who was last seen yesterday at about 1-30 a.m. in the 4500 block of Thirlane Road NW and is described as 5-6 in height, 200 lbs with long brown hair and brown eyes.

A Roanoke man, Joseph Richard Walker, was sentenced to 35 years in federal prison for murdering and burning the body of a Pennsylvania man in connection with a drug trafficking dispute — authorities said he pled guilty on January 16 and the sentencing was announced on April 30.

Roanoke restaurant owners have joined forces to oppose a proposed meals tax increase — aimed at offsetting a multi-million dollar budget shortfall — and warned that higher taxes may hurt their businesses.

City Council will meet Monday, May 5 at 2 p.m. for public comments and hold a special session on Monday, May 12 at 2 p.m. to decide on the change.

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!

Gainsboro Neighborhood Block Party

11 AM – 2 PM — Gainsboro Library — Free entry — Celebrate community spirit with food, games, and neighborly fun.

Dominion Air Open House

12-8 p.m. — Dominion Air Machinery Co — RSVP required — Explore the facilities and learn about the latest in air machinery technology.