Good morning, Roanoke.

The Salem Fair started July 1 and runs until July 12 with over 40 rides including a sandstorm roller coaster and pirate-themed kiddie ride, and expects 300,000 visitors.

A VA 250 car will be on display July 1 and 2 to mark America's 250th birthday (food vendors provide cooling treats).

Roanoke earned its 9th All-America City Award in Denver this past weekend, tying with San Antonio for the most awards.

A Tuesday public hearing in Cave Spring will review a special use permit request for a commercial dog kennel amid community concerns.

The Blue Ridge Games start Aug.

1 and run until Aug. 31, offering a scavenger hunt with hiking, biking, paddling, and photo challenges at local landmarks to win cash prizes (participants must register online via a free WSLS Insider account).

Virginia’s ban on expanded polystyrene for takeout took effect July 1 and local businesses in downtown Roanoke are paying more.

Macado’s Restaurants said it faces a $115,200 annual cost increase— a significant burden as it shifts to pricier alternative containers.

Virginia’s legal recreational marijuana market is scheduled to open next year, but local cannabis retailers are already adjusting to a two-mg THC cap that takes effect on Aug.

15. Bear Dance Hemp closed its shop in April while Buffalo Hemp Company bought a facility & equipment for a cannabis grow operation.

The Roanoke Arts Commission is asking residents to participate in the online Plan 26 survey to help update the Arts and Culture plan—responses will be used to shape a revised plan to be reviewed by the Planning Commission and City Council this fall.

Roanoke’s cultural scene blooms as Overnight Sensations returns to Mill Mountain Theatre Saturday at 8 p.m. with 10-minute plays, Ain’t Misbehavin opens July 10 at Dumas Theatre, and Into the Woods runs July 9 to 26.

Exhibits debut today at Taubman and O Winston Link Museums.

Documents for the Dominion Energy and NextEra merger are expected soon for review by the State Corporation Commission, and lawmakers warn the deal could lead to job losses as the 180-day review period begins.

This development marks a critical step in evaluating the $67 billion proposal.

Record-breaking temperatures ahead of the Fourth of July are increasing heat-related illness risks in our region as local hospitals report more emergency visits than usual.

Governor Spanberger urged residents to stay hydrated and cool while heat advisories remain in effect (CDC data) until the weekend.

Roanoke hospitals have reported over 1,000 heat-related ER visits so far this summer.

Health officials advise residents to stay indoors and drink plenty of fluids (especially water and sports drinks) to prevent dangerous symptoms.

Roanoke pet owners may notice increased anxiety in pets as summer storms & fireworks approach.

Dr. Tim Julien from Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine advises taking balanced, proactive measures at the first sign of anxiety to help pets cope.

Carilion Clinic's Ryan Fulton advises families to attend public fireworks shows & follow safety practices when lighting sparklers at home this Fourth of July to help prevent burn injuries among children and adults.

The guidance comes as local residents prepare for holiday celebrations in Roanoke.

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.

Billy Strings Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Berglund Center — Mobile delivery tickets only — Enjoy an evening of exceptional bluegrass music with no opener.

Cooper Alan Concert

6:00 – 7:30 PM — Dr. Pepper Park — Free for kids 12 & under with an adult — Experience the creative sounds of rising country star Cooper Alan at the Northwest Ace Summer Concert Series.

Umphrey's McGee Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — The Exchange — Ticket prices vary — Experience the genre-blurring grooves of Umphrey's McGee at Roanoke's premier music venue.

An Evening with Webb Wilder

8-9:30 p.m. — The Spot on Kirk — $15 ADV | $20 Day of Show — Experience Americana Rock and Roll with Roots Rock Royalty Webb Wilder.

Falcon Ridge Most Wanted Tour

7:30-9:30 p.m. — The Spot on Kirk — Check the duo's award-winning sound blending country and Americana vibes.