Good morning, Roanoke.

Virginia Fresh Match is offering a Summer Special for SNAP customers that provides a double token match at local farmers' markets until July 11.

Participating grocery stores + farm stands will give 75% off fruits and vegetables on July 11 and 12.

Amtrak slowed trains in Roanoke today to 25 mph amid extreme heat to protect rails from buckling, causing delays nearing 1 hour 40 minutes while passengers asked for clearer real-time updates+air conditioning info.

Roanoke families can now enroll in a new preschool program at the Kirk Family YMCA; the licensed center offers a full curriculum and financial help with rates $190/wk for members + $205/wk for non-members, with classes set to begin Aug.

11 while spaces remain limited.

Virginia Western Community College has been named an NC3 Leadership School to expand applied mechatronics training in our area — it will offer industry-recognized certifications to support local technical growth.

Roanoke voters can attend the City Council Candidate Mixer & Information Session at Melrose Branch Library’s Community Room on Saturday, July 11 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The free public forum will feature candidate remarks, a live Q&A, and voter education for students and new residents.

Roanoke County planners have recommended the kennel permit despite neighbor concerns — the board will vote on the proposal on July 14.

Roanoke County Fire & Rescue thanked Battalion Chief Danny Irvin after he retired following 33 years of service.

The department celebrated his career — from early fire alert responses to wildland rescues — with heartfelt recognition for his longstanding dedication to community safety.

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources opened a 30-day public comment period Tuesday for proposed 2026 fee increases and changes to wildlife, boating, and fishing regulations — comments will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Aug.

5.

A crash near Exit 140 has worsened delays on I-81 for drivers in Roanoke and Salem as VDOT works on a $292.5 million widening project using two lanes of narrow traffic + frequent ramp closures, with improvements expected to boost safety and ease congestion by mid‑2026.

A JAMA study found that some online vendors send GLP-1 weight loss drugs directly to patients without a doctor’s oversight, risking safety; researchers also linked minor cardiac dysfunction to memory loss and sleep loss to gradual weight gain.

A recent panel discussed the third stage of life—exploring ways to reduce isolation, improve nutrition and manage finances.

Reverend Dr RJ Jun from Pinnacle Living noted that local faith-based groups could help support eldercare services in Roanoke.

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.