Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 9th of May.
Good morning, Roanoke.
Roanoke police arrested four men and are seeking a fifth after a shooting on Market Street SE on May 3 that injured three men (all are recovering at a hospital); 27-year-old Cooper, the primary suspect, is charged while Tyrese Justin Hairston remains at large for additional firearm-related charges.
Two men aged 22 from Henry and 25 from Bassett were charged with second-degree murder and use of a firearm after a 24-year-old Callaway woman was found shot in her car on May 5—both were arrested on May 7 and are held without bond pending court proceedings.
Roanoke County English and journalism teacher Matthew Neale was named Virginia’s Teacher of the Year on Wednesday by Governor Youngkin—he has taught at Hidden Valley High School for 14 years and is now Virginia’s nominee for National Teacher of the Year for 2026.
Steve Simon was sworn in as Salem’s new Fire and EMS Chief on May 8 at city hall where his daughter pinned his badge in front of city officials and family.
He will start his job on May 12—after a 27-year fire service career and earning degrees, he is set to lead the department.
Alpha-Gal Syndrome, a tick-borne meat allergy, is rising in Virginia as nearly half a million people may be affected—experts report symptoms such as gut pain, nausea, and hives after eating meat may develop hours after a tick bite.
Health officials urge residents to take precautions by avoiding tick bites to reduce the risk of developing the allergy.
Carilion Clinic received state approval for its kidney transplant program that will be the only one in the region—surgery will start in 2026 at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital and a planned clinic in the New River Valley to help residents avoid long drives for care.
The program fills a critical need as many locals currently travel hours to reach transplant services.
Virginia's Blue Ridge Cycling Team finished the Tour de Bloom in Wenatchee and earned many podium finishes while Salem resident Marlies Mejias won the green points jersey.
The team's strong work and teamwork promise future success in upcoming races—showing that local talent can compete nationally.
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.
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.
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.
Strand Theatre Revival Free Jazz Concert
11 PM – 2 AM — 109 Henry St NW, Roanoke, VA — Free entry — Celebrate the legendary history of jazz music at the historic Strand Theatre with a night of free performances.
Festival in The Park - Sunday (1964 The Tribute)
8:30-11:30 p.m. — Elmwood Park — Ticket information not mentioned — Experience an authentic Beatles tribute that captures the spirit of the 60s.
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