Good morning, Roanoke.

Due to extreme heat, the Salem Fair will delay its opening later today and on Sunday out of an abundance of caution.

Attendees are advised to check local updates (for revised start times) before arriving.

Roanoke receives national recognition as CNN ranked it the 10th best town to visit in 2026—highlighting its trails, downtown, and thriving food scene.

City leaders credit years of investment in outdoor recreation and local businesses for this honor.

David Hoffmann said his childhood experiences shaped his family's commitment to helping local causes — faith and personal values continue to drive their philanthropy.

Roanoke County crews fought a brush fire today in a wooded area + working to contain the blaze and protect nearby properties.

On Thursday, a house fire in Franklin County resulted in the structure being deemed a total loss at 5:44 p.m. and a firefighter was taken to the hospital for heat-related issues, later released, while multiple fire departments responded & the cause is under investigation.

David Hoffmann, chairman of Lee Enterprises, chose family over a football scholarship—his early romance and difficult decision set him on a path to build a business empire.

David Hoffmann, chairman of Lee Enterprises, is investing millions in local newspapers, saying these outlets remain vital & essential to community news.

The investment is expected to support publication efforts over the coming months.

Antonio Stovall described how Friends of Evans Spring, Friends of Washington Park, and The Landlords joined at Washington Park to honor Summer Solstice, Juneteenth, and Fatherhood through drumming, storytelling, and shared prayers (emphasizing a deep cultural bond).

He expressed gratitude for everyone’s participation and looks forward to future collaborations.

Roanoke College will offer 3-year online degrees in cannabis studies (designed for working professionals) and public administration, with classes beginning this fall.

The new programs aim to provide flexible learning options for adult students.

Local governments and low-income residents will soon receive RGGI grants for flood prevention upgrades and energy efficiency improvements as funds from fossil fuel power plants become available.

Governor Abigail Spanberger rejoined the multi-state compact on July 1 + full-year revenue is expected to boost future grant amounts.

The DEA is set to reclassify 7-OH as a Schedule 1 drug, a change that will tighten controls on the substance (and local officials are watching its potential effects on treatment).

More details will be released as the proposal moves forward.

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.

On Tour with Vince Gill

7:30-9 p.m. — Berglund Center — Tickets available — Experience a night of world-class country music with the legendary Vince Gill.