Good morning, Roanoke.

Responders confiscated 18 dogs and 18 cats Tuesday from a Botetourt County home after discovering they were dehydrated following a trip from Texas, and the animals are now cared for by Angels of Assisi.

Roanoke’s cultural scene offers a busy weekend with theatre and museum events.

Drowsy Chaperone opens tonight at Showtimers Community Theatre, and a closing night lecture for artist David Wiesner is held today at 6 p.m. on the Hollins campus; the Festival of New Works runs Friday-Sunday.

Roanoke libraries have launched the Ramey archive—featuring hundreds of drawings and writings by David Ramey that document the Gainsboro neighborhood before urban renewal—and invite locals to explore this rich community history.

The Roanoke Events Calendar for July 22 to 30 features a Vince Gill concert at Berglund Center on Friday, a sold-out Billy Bob Thornton show in Rocky Mount on Tuesday, plus museum receptions and baseball games throughout the week — offering plenty of choices for local culture.

Carvins Cove water levels dropped 15 feet below full pond as drought and data center demands strain supplies; Appalachian Power & tech expansion has led the utility to file for a rate hike that may add $9.10 to bills, while officials warn of more strain on the grid and water.

Franklin County Schools is adjusting its budget to meet the state's requirement for a 4% teacher raise without cutting school programs.

The final budget will be voted on at the school board meeting on Sept. 14 (the district already eliminated over 50 positions) to secure the necessary funds.

Scientists from Virginia Tech and agencies studied the rare Peters Mountain Mallow in Giles County (its only home) and found six plants including a new one.

With no prescribed burn planned due to drought, the team will soon collect seeds and may grow new plants to help the species survive.

Officials in Lynchburg urge residents and businesses to reduce water use as drought conditions deepen in Central and Southwest Virginia; the voluntary plan promotes simple measures like cutting back on outdoor watering + vehicle washing to help protect water supplies as nearby areas face more severe drought.

State lawmakers oppose a casino plan at the Berglund Center site and call the idea terrible, leaving Roanoke’s legislative delegation without support for the project.

The Life Ring Foundation’s Play Yellow Invitational golf event raised $2.15 million from July 17-19 to support expanded pediatric hematology and oncology care in a partnership with Carilion.

A free health clinic in Southwest Virginia expects an unprecedented surge in patients — due to upcoming Medicaid changes risking many losing coverage — and will offer care at clinics and mobile units.

CEO Teresa Owens Tyson urges proactive screenings as rising costs affect both insured and uninsured patients.

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.