Good morning, Roanoke.

Salem VA Medical Center moved its Freedom 250 Celebration indoors to Building 5 Auditorium at noon on Thursday due to severe weather, and Delta Dental's Party in Elmwood featuring Too Much Sylvia was postponed for safety reasons.

Students at Cumberland Middle and High Schools created the first installment of a multimedia story map on local Negro League baseball history that honors James Jenkins and community pioneers.

The project ties past achievements to today’s discussion on sports and integration.

Volunteers are helping restore the Settlers Museum, a historic 1800 farmstead in Smyth County, as HistoriCorps members repair the front porch and chimney while camping on-site; the museum will host fall arts workshops and an apple butter event.

Patchwork 250, a new WSLS 10 project, honors the Magic City Medical Society's work building a healthcare network for Black communities in Southwest Virginia despite Jim Crow barriers.

Roanoke hosts a Caribbean festival that offers residents a taste of island food and live music today at a local venue + a chance to explore vibrant cultural traditions.

AAA said on Thursday, June 18 that regular gas averaged $3.74, premium was $4.64 and diesel reached $4.98, remaining below national levels.

Local drivers can enjoy lower prices today.

Roanoke City Public Schools superintendent Dr. Verletta White announced she will retire on June 27, 2027 after more than three decades in public education — she will lead the division for one more year to complete current projects.

Virginia voters will decide on Nov.

3 whether to remove the 2006 same-sex marriage ban from the state Constitution, a measure approved by the General Assembly and signed by Governor Spanberger earlier this year. Supporters say the amendment will protect marriage equality if federal rulings change.

Starting Monday, June 22, clear bag rules take effect at Fallon Park and Washington Park pools with 300 free bags provided and $5 charged once supplies run out + the rule aims to boost safety and reduce wait times.

Dr. Hiba Khan warns that summer heat and humidity put dementia patients at risk; she advises caregivers to keep them hydrated with alternatives such as flavored water or watermelon and to watch for signs of dehydration, confusion, and heat stroke.

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'.

The Broken Hearts - Tom Petty Tribute

6:00 – 7:30 PM — Dr. Pepper Park — Cost info not specified — Celebrate the music of Tom Petty with a tribute band from his home state of Florida.

Delta Dental Party in Elmwood

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Elmwood Park — $10 admission, kids free — Enjoy a lively evening of beach bands and family-friendly activities in a vibrant park atmosphere.

Luke Schneider Live Performance

8-11 p.m. — The Spot on Kirk — $12 ADV/$15 DOS — Experience the celestial sounds of Nashville's ambient pedal-steel artist.

Pilates in the Park

8:00 – 8:45 AM — Wasena Park — Free entry — Start your day with refreshing Pilates moves and community connection in the park.

Aaron Lewis and The Stateliners Concert

10 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. — Dr. Pepper Park — Kids 12 and under free — Experience a day of music with Aaron Lewis in the Northwest ACE Summer Concert Series.