Good morning, Roanoke.

Roanoke Police are investigating a shooting at Huff Lane Park in the 4400 block of Huff Lane NW where an 18-year-old sustained serious gunshot injuries on June 28 at 7:30 p.m.—security camera footage captured five males fleeing the scene who may hold key information.

Roanoke police have sought persons of interest in connection with a shooting incident on June 30 — officials are urging anyone with information to come forward.

A man was arrested on June 30 for the fatal shooting of his father in Roanoke—police are investigating the incident and reviewing evidence.

Salem Fair will run from July 2 to 13 with free admission while guests pay for rides, games, food and merchandise on site.

Advance ride passes and daily wristband specials are available along with varying fair hours and free parking—guests must leave pets at home.

Organizers say planned improvements to the new festival site will enhance the experience of FloydFest25 Aurora from July 23 to 27—ticket prizes will rise today as the event benefits from refinements made after moving from its 2023 location.

Virginia Tech entomologist Eric Day said the spotted lanternfly, first seen in Winchester in 2018, is now spreading along highways and affecting local gardens—gardeners should watch for browning leaves or stunted growth and alert a local extension agent if needed—so they can protect their landscapes.

Roanoke native James Morton 'Jamie' Turner, a professor at Wellesley College, was awarded a 2025 Guggenheim Fellowship that will fund his research on a renewable-energy future—his work studies how power production may shift from fossil fuels to wind, solar, and geothermal sources.

He recently returned from a three-week research trip in Wyoming and Utah where he examined advanced geothermal and nuclear pilot projects.

Construction began yesterday on the $2.2 million Gainsboro Road Streetscape Project to improve safety and mobility along the corridor from Salem Avenue to Orange Avenue.

The project—funded by American Rescue Plan Act dollars and led by contractor EC Pace—will be completed in phases by spring 2026 as drivers face lane closures and delays.

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.

Diamond Rio Concert

6-7:30 p.m. — Dr Pepper Park at the Bridges — Ticket prices vary — Experience the beloved country band Diamond Rio live in Roanoke.

Spanish Tune-Up for Middle School Students

9 AM - 12 PM — Michael Eaton — Cancellation and change fees apply — A fun camp for rising sixth to eighth graders to boost their Spanish skills over the summer.