Good morning, Roanoke.

The Captain’s Choice Golf Tournament will honor first responders on Friday, July 24 at the Blue Ridge Golf Club with a $10,000 hole-in-one reward and cash prizes for winners while community members can join for an entry fee, continuing a 20-year legacy of appreciation for first responders.

Cardinal News welcomed nine new staff at their Roanoke headquarters on June 29, with roles including reporters, an editor, and fundraising experts.

The nonprofit also announced openings for an Editor in Chief, an accountability reporter, and a Partnerships Manager to boost team growth this year.

Today, gas prices in Virginia are on the rise; AAA reports averages of $3.91 for regular gas, $4.77 for premium and $5.15 for diesel, and rates vary in nearby Blacksburg, Christiansburg + Radford.

Roanoke schools start on Aug.

11 and Pulaski on Aug. 13 while Bedford enforces a clear bag policy at athletic events. Verizon Wireless will give away free backpacks in Roanoke on July 26 and a modern science lab will open at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center in spring.

Roanoke City Schools held the Dream it, Build it, Work It summer camp today, giving 50 students hands-on practice in welding and wiring and adding an inclusive program for students with disabilities — the camp provided OSHA certification in partnership with SparkForce.

Jamie Soltis is the new superintendent of Roanoke County Public Schools and will host a series of meet-and-greets this summer to gather community input.

The events will help local families learn about her plans for the district.

Virginia Tech's board meets Tuesday to continue the search for a new president expected to guide enrollment, research priorities, and regional economic development.

The panel will address challenges including growth in emerging sectors and the university's role in community progress.

Protesters gathered along U.S. 220 in Botetourt County on Saturday to demand clearer details on a proposed Google data center's water use.

They want officials to either cancel the project or review its water needs at the county board meeting on July 28.

Local ice cream shops throughout southwest Virginia celebrate National Ice Cream Day today — photojournalist Jordan Parham visited several vendors to taste special flavors.

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.

Leanne Morgan Live

7-10 p.m. — Berglund Center — Tickets required — Celebrate an evening of laughter with acclaimed comedian Leanne Morgan, known for her warm and relatable storytelling.