Good morning, Roanoke.

Status Lounge voluntarily closed downtown after 46 police calls between early 2025 and March 31 for meal tax and fire code issues (the owner confirmed the shutdown was voluntary).

SpecialtyRx is opening its new 11,000-sqft regional pharmacy at 811 Connecticut Ave. in NE Roanoke, boosting long-term care services for 1,500 patients and growth to over 10,000.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for July 29 at 3:00 p.m. — local leaders including Mayor Joe Cobb are expected to attend.

Antonio Stovall spoke at Harrison Museum to share Dr. John Henry Pinkard's legacy and spark local dialogue on history + traditional healing practices.

Local elders and visitors joined the conversation, and the presentation led to invitations to share his research in other communities.

Tiffany Allen (a Roanoke native) is the center supervisor at TAP Head Start (managing daily operations and ensuring child safety) who answered ten questions about her life journey and work in education.

Roanoke City Public Schools partnered with SparkForce to host the inaugural Dream It, Build It, Work It camp on Thursday, July 16 at Charles W.

Day Technical Education Center for 50 students with disabilities to build skills in manufacturing — earning OSHA 10 certification.

A recent study by WalletHub ranked Virginia’s public schools 6th among 50 states based on 32 metrics.

Analyst Chip Lupo said high graduation rates and low weapon incidents boost the ranking.

Mill Mountain Zoo is offering six scholarships to teens from a local Title 1 school to attend its Junior Field Technicians Camp from July 27-31.

The camp will include a session with Amanda the Red Panda, providing free admission and hands-on learning for teens aged 12 to 15.

Dr. Monet Roberts has invited young doctors, including Roanoke participants, to engage in hands-on cancer research at VTech’s Roberts Gylco Diversity Laboratory as the project expands with contributions from additional labs.

The initiative offers practical experience with innovative research methods.

Patrick Henry High School has hired Reyhan Deskins as its new principal, replacing Joe Booan who served for the past two years.

Deskins brings extensive experience from multiple local schools (including roles at Franklin County and William Fleming) and plans to support every student.

Brittany Mills received her diploma at The Excel Center in Melrose Plaza today, making her the first graduate of Virginia’s first tuition-free adult high school — a school offering flexible scheduling, on-site childcare, and career training for adult learners.

Local Office on Aging said its Emergency Food Pantry received a 2026 Aging Achievement Award from USAging at the annual conference held July 18 to 21 in San Diego, CA.

The program gives monthly food support to at-risk seniors & shows innovation in addressing food insecurity.

Persistent money problems may speed up brain aging, researchers report, as a University College London study links ongoing financial stress to cognitive decline beginning in the 50s.

Additional studies show that lifestyle factors also affect heart health, highlighting the role of stress in overall wellness.

Reggie Miller, the NBA legend, took part in the USA Cycling Endurance Mountain Bike National Championships in Roanoke during a week-long event.

Coached by Sonya Looney, he finished ninth in his age group at races held at Carvins Cove, Elmwood Park & Explore Park.

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.