Good morning, Roanoke.

Roanoke offers a full week of events starting with Wednesday’s Big Run and a Renewal Studios benefit soirée.

Today brings art and music at downtown venues while weekend activities include museum tours, live shows, family sessions, and a drag brunch—check local schedules for details.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert N.

Tracci honored WWII D-Day veterans George Hubbard and James Flinchum as Freedom 250: Hometown Heroes awardees Tuesday in Roanoke. WDBJ7 will air interviews with the veterans on Sunday, June 7.

Spring’s wild temperature swings damaged Virginia crops as a mix of summer heat and sudden cold snapped buds and blossoms, leaving some farmers facing complete losses amid an ongoing drought—losses are estimated between $32.4 million and $105.3 million.

Governor Spanberger has urged federal assistance to help affected growers.

The Roanoke Higher Education Center announced on Wednesday that Executive Director Kay Dunkley, Ed.D. will retire on January 1, 2027 after 10 years of service.

The board will soon launch a search for a new leader to continue supporting local education.

Roanoke City Council appointed retired healthcare finance chief Donna Littlepage and real estate strategist Derek Kaknes to the school board; their three-year terms will begin July 1 and run through June 30 (2029) as they address over $100 million in education funds amid district budget and staffing challenges.

Roanoke City appointed Donna Littlepage & Derek Kaknes to the school board amid budget cuts, while Roanoke County will begin an $11 million renovation of Hollins Library with services temporarily at Green Ridge Recreation Center, and a pedestrian died after being struck on Campbell Avenue.

County officials plan a safety overhaul on Plantation Road near Food Lion and Walmart after 87 crashes from 2020 to 2024 — the redesign will include bus stops, crosswalks, and lane markings, with some changes expected in the next couple of years.

As summer heats up, local health officials advise using 20% DEET or picaridin repellent—along with fans and removing standing water—to keep mosquitoes at bay.

These steps help prevent bites from turning into infections.

Lauren Alaina Concert

10:00 AM – 7:30 PM — Dr. Pepper Park, Riverwalk Parking Deck — Cost not specified — Enjoy infectious melodies and relatable lyrics from a rising country star.

Talking Heads Tribute Concert

6-9 p.m. — Black Dog Salvage - Main Showroom — Kids 12 & under are free — Enjoy the definitive tribute to The Talking Heads with a seven-piece band performing hits from ’77 to Stop Making Sense.

5PTS Legendary Brunch with Hoppie Vaughan and Friends

11 a.m.–4 p.m. — Black Dog Salvage - Main Showroom — Kids 12 & under FREE — Enjoy live music and local vendors at this community benefit series supporting non-profits.

TOAST - The Best of BREAD

7-11 p.m. — Jefferson Center, 541 Luck Ave SW, Roanoke, VA — Ticket prices vary — Experience the nostalgic soft rock hits of BREAD performed with virtuoso fidelity by TOAST.

Roanoke Symphony Orchestra: A Heartland Hit Parade

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Salem Civic Center — $31.00, $37.00 & $50.00 — Experience the powerful fusion of country music and orchestral performance with hits from legendary artists.

Monster Flea Market

7-11 a.m. — Berglund Center — Free entry — Explore over 200 vendors selling a diverse range of items at Roanoke's biggest flea market.

Breakthrough Basketball Skills Camp

June 16-18 — Performance Sportsplex — $97 for observing coaches — Enhance your game with intense ball handling, shooting, and decision-making drills.

Leonard Blush and the Camelcals Live Performance

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Parkway Brewing Company — Check the venue for ticket prices — Enjoy a vibrant rock and roll performance by Leonard Blush and the Camelcals, hailing from Virginia.

Josh Turner Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Berglund Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the smooth baritone of Josh Turner and his timeless hits live on stage.

Allen Stone Live in Concert

7-11:30 p.m. — The Exchange — Tickets available — Experience the electrifying soulful sounds of Allen Stone in Roanoke’s premier music venue.