Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 14th of July.
Good morning, Roanoke.
Salem Fair officials say the 2026 fair saw record heat and pop-up storms and raised funds for charities including the Food Pantry, Rescue Mission, Clothes Closet plus a new CTE scholarship for Salem High seniors.
Nearly 2,000 lbs of food and over 550 socks were donated during the 12-day event.
FloydFest 26~Daydream will take place later this month in Check; the festival will feature live music and art vendors (details pending).
Roanoke gasoline prices rose 3.9¢ per gallon to $3.58 on Monday, July 13, according to GasBuddy.
The current prices are 20.6¢ lower than a month ago and 68.2¢ higher than a year ago (national averages increased as well).
Gasoline prices in Virginia increased by 13.2 cents in the past week, with the average on Monday at $3.74/g and rates ranging from $3.17 to $4.99—up 75 cents from a year ago.
National prices also rose by 10.3 cents.
The Blue Ridge Marathon brought more than $2 million in spending to local hotels, restaurants and attractions in Roanoke Valley this year, according to the Roanoke Regional Partnership.
The event attracted 3,042 runners from 41 states and five countries and marked a 16% rise in economic impact over last year.
Good Shepherd Lutheran Preschool in Roanoke will offer a full-day program starting Sept.
1 with care from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. to support working families.
Gov. Spanberger has named Pete Eshelman to the Virginia Tourism Authority, marking his second term on the board as he aims to expand the region’s outdoor tourism model statewide.
Eshelman, who has long promoted local recreation for economic growth, said he looks forward to giving our community a stronger voice in state decisions.
Virginia will be the first state to offer residents a solar group purchasing program called Switch Together that could lower electricity bills by about 23 percent.
The program is available in over 100 communities through Oct. 15 and is led by the governor's office.
American Red Cross declared an emergency blood shortage after supply fell 25% in June and hospitals received 3,500 extra units per week; donors can help by booking appointments via the Blood Donor App or website and will get a Fandango ticket (up to $15) if they donate by July 31.
On the final day of the MLB Draft, local and homegrown athletes from Virginia and nearby colleges received pro calls from MLB teams (including Atlanta and Tampa Bay) to begin their journeys in professional baseball.
Roanoke Valley is hosting the 2026 USA Cycling Endurance Mountain Bike National Championships this week at Carvins Cove, Explore Park, and Elmwood Park — an event drawing riders from across the country.
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.
Big Lick Comic Con
11 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Berglund Center — Entry fee varies — Immerse yourself in a vibrant world of comic culture with artists, guests, and collectibles.
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