Daily
Roanoke
Wednesday, May 7th, 2025
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Good morning, Roanoke. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 7th of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Mill Mountain Zoo opened its new, handicap-accessible Skyline Stage for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy educational programs and events. The zoo replaced an unsafe amphitheater plus held a grand opening Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. to launch its new space. WSLS 10
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Nadean Carson, an Air Force veteran and founder of Oya Construction, was honored with the 2024 Regional Small Business Veteran of the Year award—she is the first solo woman to receive the honor. Carson began her career in the military and now plans a 2025 Veterans’ Build while volunteering with Team Rubicon. WFXR-TV
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Franklin County deputies found Emily Grace Keene shot in her car in the 500 block of Holley Ridge Road in Henry at about 11:52 a.m. on May 5 and her remains were taken to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Roanoke where her death was ruled a homicide, with anyone having information urged to contact the sheriff's office at 540-483-3000. WDBJ7
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ A group of citizens will hold a revival concert at the historic Strand Theatre—once the base of silent film director Oscar Micheaux—to bring music back and spark a movement, building on its past as a site for musical legends. WFIR News
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Congressman Ben Cline raised concerns at a U.S. House Judiciary Committee hearing about federal agencies collecting Americans’ data without a warrant — he urged that law enforcement should secure proper legal approval when using Section 702 of FISA and experts warned that such practices risk citizens’ privacy. WFIR News
- ➤ Gov. Glenn Youngkin vetoed a Medicaid budget change that would have lowered the body mass index needed to get weight loss drugs—saving about $7M in state funds and nearly $40M in federal funds while some doctors worry this may make it harder for patients to get help. Roanoke.com
- ➤ Roanoke police appointed a new Downtown sergeant on May 6 who is focused on increasing safety downtown—he has already begun steps to improve community engagement. WDBJ7
TRAVEL NEWS
- ➤ TODAY'S SPONSOR Compression packing cubes are a travel game-changer — fit twice as much, stay organized, and avoid suitcase chaos. Perfect for any trip, they keep clothes tidy, save space, and make packing and unpacking a breeze. The Buy
Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Roanoke.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Sunday School with Pastor Phil
11:00 a.m. — Church — Free entry — Explore Christian training through the Way of Love with Pastor Phil.
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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.
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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!
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Gainsboro Neighborhood Block Party
11 AM – 2 PM — Gainsboro Library — Free entry — Celebrate community spirit with food, games, and neighborly fun.
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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.
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Jordan Davis Concert
7-9:30 p.m. — Elmwood Park Art Walk — Cost not specified — Experience the hits of Billboard's Top New Country Artist in an intimate outdoor setting.
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Roanoke Festival in the Park
All day — Elmwood Park Art Walk — Free entry — Celebrate art, music, and community in this beloved annual festival since 1969.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.
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Reveal the authorAbout Daily Roanoke
Welcome to the Daily Roanoke, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Roanoke, Virginia community. If you like the Daily Roanoke, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Roanoke.
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