Good morning, Roanoke.

Star City Cat Rescue featured kitten Link on Sunday after National Kitten Day in the studio to promote adoption and foster programs.

The volunteer-run rescue relies on community help for its TNR work and to find cats loving forever homes in Roanoke.

Local volunteer The Roanoke Raven (an EMT and firefighter) uses his growing social media following to lead projects like litter cleanup and water donations during heat waves.

He plans to expand his efforts to help those in need around town.

At Smith Mountain Lake on Saturday night, rescue teams saved four boat occupants from a vessel that ran aground on an exposed shoal due to low water levels, prompting officials to warn boaters about low-visibility risks.

Churchill Downs has proposed two gaming emporiums in Pulaski and Amherst County if voters approve.

The company already runs Rosie's in Vinton and Collinsville and plans to expand its gaming footprint across the region.

Brittany Mills earned her high school diploma as the first graduate of Virginia’s adult high school at Roanoke’s Excel Center on Friday; she plans to attend community college for dental hygiene studies.

Virginia counties are enforcing stricter energy ordinances for solar and battery projects—Energy Right warned that these new rules may increase costs, delay development, and shrink usable land while urging local officials to adopt balanced standards to safeguard property rights and promote investment.

Local experts warn that long periods of passive screen time like watching TV or scrolling on social media can lower brain function — balancing these habits with exercise, reading, or puzzles may help keep your mind sharp.

Dr. Dylan Wint from Cleveland Clinic advises mixing active pursuits to support brain health.

USA Cycling Endurance Mountain Bike National Championships started Sunday at Carvins Cove in Roanoke with elite riders tackling 50 miles and thousands of feet of climbing.

The race series continues this week with short track events in Elmwood Park and cross-country races at Explore Park.

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.

Hoppie Vaughan and the Ministers of Soul Live Performance

6-8 p.m. — Golden Cactus Brewing — Free entry — Experience a night of rhythm and blue-eyed soul with Hoppie Vaughan and his electrifying band!

Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Berglund Center — Cost not specified — Experience the heartfelt storytelling of six-time Grammy winner Jason Isbell with his band, the 400 Unit.

Amelia Day Live Performance

7:30 – 9:00 PM — The Spot on Kirk — $12 ADV (+fees) | $15 DOS (+tax) — Experience the genre-blending sound of Amelia Day as she reveals her authentic artistry through relatable storytelling.

Jason Carter Band Live

8:00 – 9:30 PM — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate country music with acclaimed fiddler Jason Carter and his band.