Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 12th of June.
Good morning, Roanoke.
10 News anchor Brittany Morgan is asking locals to nominate everyday heroes making a difference in our community — submissions must include the nominee's name, area, and a brief description to be featured on WSLS 10.
Toebean Cat Cafe reopened after vandals cut electrical wires Monday night — the cats were unharmed — and now readies the Whiskers in Bloom market tomorrow from noon to 6 p.m. behind the cafe, with a seven-day Paws and Applause celebration set for next month.
Austrian skincare and nutritional products maker RINGANA will invest $85 million over five years and add 435 jobs by setting up its U.S. headquarters at Blue Ridge Commerce Park (near I-581), while Governor Spanberger approved a $5 million state grant to back the project.
Nokefest returns today at Garrett Farms in Salem near Glenvar—this three-day festival features music along the river, interactive wellness, comedy, and free play for kids along with a custom metal sign marking the entrance.
A local book seller is hosting the 1st Annual Roanoke Valley Book Swap and Fair at Golden Cactus Brewing this weekend — uniting Roanoke readers in a lively exchange of favorite titles.
State leaders recognized the Roanoke Excel Center on Jun.
11 for marking its first anniversary and boosting local education and workforce skills. Officials said the center’s success promises continued community growth.
Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center in Roanoke rescued two orphaned bobcat kittens from Lee County and began a rehabilitation process lasting 10 months that may exceed $20,000 before their planned release next spring.
Staff work to help them gain weight while keeping them unaccustomed to people.
As summer temperatures rise, cooling centers will open across Roanoke beginning this month — six library branches, Belmont Presbyterian Church, and The Hope Center will offer air-conditioned spaces and drinking water to help residents stay cool.
Local men are increasingly addressing mental health — explained counselor Drew Edwards.
He said that stress, isolation, and communication challenges call for small, practical steps toward therapy and support.
VDH warned of crowded events amid a measles outbreak after 83 cases were confirmed in Buckingham County as of June 9 (106 cases statewide).
Residents not vaccinated or unsure of their immunity should avoid large gatherings until the outbreak subsides.
Local health officials warn that a heat wave with temperatures reaching 90 degrees is affecting Roanoke, with major risk days and alerts in effect today and coming days.
Residents 65+ and others at risk should drink water, seek shade, and watch for signs like rapid heartbeat & dizziness.
Local fans can enjoy the World Cup this month at The Village Grill in Grandin, known for its lively soccer crowds, or at The Hotel Roanoke’s revamped FIFA Alley with three TVs, an indoor bar, and an outdoor beer garden (open to everyone).
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.
PWR Poetry Jam featuring Taye the Truth
7:30-11:30 p.m. — The Spot on Kirk — Free entry — Experience an evening filled with expressive poetry and music from local artists in Roanoke.
Dinner in the Dark 2026
6-9:30 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Supportive event — Experience a unique dining event aimed at raising awareness for the Deaf/Blind community.
2026 Miss Virginia - Thursday Preliminary Competition
June 25th — Berglund Center — Scholarships over $80,000 at stake — Witness the competition as talented young ladies vie for the crowns of Miss Virginia and Miss Virginia’s Teen.
Nether Hour Concert
8-11 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Tickets available — Experience the Texas Blues Rockers Nether Hour bringing their unique sound to Roanoke's vibrant music scene.
Kristy Cox Concert
7:30-9:00 p.m. — The Spot on Kirk — $20 General Admission (+fees) — Experience the electrifying blend of bluegrass, country, and Americana from the 'Queen of Bluegrass'.
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