Good morning, Roanoke.

H.E.A.R.T. Rescue is hosting an adoption event for orphaned kittens at its Roanoke center.

Local families can adopt a pet and learn more about kitten care (event details to be confirmed).

Roanoke’s writing community mourned prolific sci-fi and fantasy author Rod Belcher, who published ten novels including his debut The Six-Gun Tarot and supported local writers and role-playing groups.

He left behind three children + four grandchildren.

FloydFest 26~Daydream starts today at FestivalPark in Check, featuring My Morning Jacket, Stephen Wilson Jr. and Lukas Nelson after Tedeschi Trucks Band cancelled; grounds manager Danielle Ward has enhanced the 210-acre site with native plants and goat-aided poison ivy control (a key element for safe stormwater management).

Brittany Mills earned her diploma and dental certificate as the first graduate of Excel Center Adult High School at Melrose Plaza 19 years after a car accident, and the tuition-free program operated by Goodwill Industries of the Valleys (offering flexible scheduling and childcare) helps adults balance work and family.

A full list of school start dates has been released for central, southwest Virginia school districts.

Use the search tool in the chart to find your district and plan for the upcoming school year.

The Load the Bus campaign will launch Friday, July 31 at Walmart locations, collecting essential school supplies to help students start the year strong (donations will continue through Sunday, Aug.

2 and online contributions are accepted via the RCPS wishlist).

Roanoke County's new public schools superintendent Dr. Jamie Soltis began his five-stop community tour Monday at Northside High School to listen to families before school starts Aug.

13. Additional sessions are scheduled at Glenvar, William Byrd, Hidden Valley and Cave Spring (July 21, July 27, July 30, Aug. 6).

Excel Center Adult High School at Melrose Plaza will expand class size from 50 to 75 and held a job fair on Tuesday, July 21 while planning fairs on Thursday, July 23 and Tuesday, July 28 to hire teachers (for math, English, electives) and a Lead Life Coach.

Gov. Spanberger issued a flag order to honor U.S. Army 1st Lt Kendrick Lamont Key Jr. who died in May 2026 during a rescue attempt in Morocco and was posthumously awarded the Soldier’s Medal.

Flags will be flown at half-staff and lowered at sunrise today.

Safety advocate Steve Eimers (The Guardrail Guy) said he is concerned that Flock Safety cameras are mounted on posts lacking breakaway technology, which could risk drivers’ safety in Roanoke.

He called on agencies and companies to adopt third-party inspections and improve standards, proposing model legislation to address the issue.

Local officials are considering a casino to raise $28 million for the Berglund Center, facing strong opposition from state lawmakers.

The proposal remains under review as political hurdles persist.

Cleveland Clinic psychologist Susan Albers told Roanoke residents that summer is a prime time to start simple self-care habits such as outdoor walks, exploring new hobbies (like checking out seasonal produce) to boost mood and manage blood pressure.

Consumer Reports and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety identified 74 used cars under $20K with advanced safety features to help protect teen drivers.

Parents in Roanoke can consider models like the Honda Civic, Toyota Camry, and Hyundai Tucson as they balance safety and cost in their purchase decisions.

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.