Good morning, Roanoke.

Brenda, a one-year-old American Pitt Bull Terrier from RCACP, spent a day out with the RAD program—she visited South County Library, Starky Park, and Mill Mountain Coffee before being adopted by a new family.

Botetourt County deputies responded to a 911 call early Wednesday on High Ridge Circle after 23-year-old Liam Gerald McCaul confessed to killing his 58-year-old father from Troutville—when he refused to surrender and aimed his gun at officers, they shot him, and the deputies involved have been placed on administrative leave as Virginia State Police investigate the incident.

Roanoke City Public Schools named Stephanie Davis as the new principal of Morningside Elementary School yesterday.

She served as Assistant Principal at Grandin Court Elementary School + held roles as a special education coordinator, instructional coach, teacher, and teaching assistant at other local schools.

Local law enforcement in Roanoke and Appomattox attended a ceremony in Richmond on Tuesday to honor 13-year-old D.J.

Daniel—who has battled brain cancer—as he was sworn in as an honorary state trooper and in other roles. His milestone of being sworn in by over 1,000 agencies was celebrated by his father and state leaders, including Governor Glenn Youngkin.

The city of Roanoke began construction on a $2.2 million Gainsboro Road project on Monday, June 30, using ARPA funds to add pedestrian signals, crosswalks, curb extensions, ADA access, a mobility track for cyclists and scooters, and new on-street parking along the corridor from Salem Avenue to Orange Avenue. Local input shaped the design and contractor EC Pace will complete the work in phases until spring 2026 — lane closures and delays are possible — while the road remains open.

Today at 10 a.m., the Roanoke Fire-EMS will hold a graduation ceremony for its first academy class at its new training center in Riverdale—marking a big milestone for the department.

The modern facility—opened in February under a 15-year lease and equipped with large classrooms, locker rooms, meeting spaces, and a gym donated by Planet Fitness—helps train the fire service team.

The American Heart Association warns that rising heat will put extra strain on hearts for people on diuretics and blood pressure drugs—Dr. Bryant Self from Carilion Clinic advises staying hydrated, dressing lightly, and avoiding outdoor activities during the hottest times to prevent heat stroke.

Ledbetters & Superunknown

6-7:30 p.m. — Dr. Pepper Park — Ticketed event — Enjoy tributes to Pearl Jam and Chris Cornell by The Ledbetters and Superunknown.

WDBJ7's Star City Slide

10 AM – 10 PM on June 28 & 12 PM – 8 PM on June 29 — 2nd Street Bridge in Downtown Roanoke — $35 for adults, $10 for children 4-12 — Experience a thrilling ride down the slide with stunning city views.

Freedom Festival & Fireworks

4-9:30 p.m. — River's Edge Park — Free entry — Enjoy live music, food trucks, and a spectacular fireworks display to celebrate freedom.

Virginia Electric Live Concert

10 p.m. — Martin's Downtown — No Refunds — Enjoy two sets of electrifying music at one of Roanoke's top venues.

Annual Floatilla to Starr Hill

1-6 p.m. — Roanoke Mountain Adventures — Bring your own float — Float down the Roanoke River to Starr Hill Brewery with friends and family.

Them Dirty Roses Concert

5-7:30 p.m. — Dr Pepper Park at the Bridges — Ticketed event — Enjoy southern rock vibes from Bama's own Them Dirty Roses.

Minka with The Big Debbies

6:30-11 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Check for ticket prices — Experience a funky night with Minka and the debut of The Big Debbies, promising an energetic musical blend.

Summer Discovery Days at the Museum

10 AM — O. Winston Link & Roanoke History Museum — $5 per child — Interactive summer learning themed around local history and hands-on adventures.

Weekly Club Meeting

12:30-1:30 p.m. — Charter Hall at the City Market Building — Registration required — Attend this weekly meeting in person or virtually via Zoom.

Summer Senior Club

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. — Historic Fishburn Mansion — $30 — Engage in crafts and games while making new friends in a welcoming environment.