Good morning, Roanoke.

Traditional Medicinals broke ground on a new tea plant at Summit View Business Park in Franklin County today that will create 57 new jobs and cost $47 million.

The 125,000 square foot facility will process over 60 tea flavors and is expected to deliver a $62 million economic impact — with completion scheduled for summer.

Franklin County basketball coach Gill was shot and killed on Sunday at Carter’s Exxon while his family and friends recalled his support for local youth — a suspect, James Mattox, who knew him, is scheduled to appear in court on August 19.

A man was sentenced to prison after he was convicted of murdering his brother and dogs — the court delivered the sentence following a trial that examined evidence of the violent crimes — and local authorities confirmed the decision.

Beaver Dam Farm’s 10th anniversary Sunflower Festival will run from September 5–14 in Buchanan—hosting a live release of 300 painted lady butterflies and a special-edition sunflower beer event on August 16.

The event draws over 20,000 visitors each year and will also include a live remote broadcast and local partnerships.

Roanoke Remembers—an archive website—is collecting flood stories and photos from the historic 1985 flood as the city works to improve flood safety.

City officials said a $2.8 million downtown project and a $7 million stormwater budget are part of ongoing efforts to manage future floods.

A study by Virginia climate researchers showed that urban features can cause up to a 9 degree Fahrenheit difference on hot summer days in areas like Roanoke’s municipal building and nearby parks.

The research linked higher heat in built-up neighborhoods to less tree cover and past redlining practices—suggesting more tree planting could help cool local areas.

Cocktails and Creators

7-11:59 p.m. — Six and Sky Rooftop Grille — $30 — Mingle with comic creators while enjoying a cocktail and scenic views in an exclusive meet and greet.

Big Lick Comic Con: Summer Celebration

11:00 AM – 12:30 PM — Berglund Center — Cost information not provided — Celebrate summer with unique backgrounds and fandom at this local comic con.

Shrek The Musical Live

1-4 p.m. — Mill Mountain Theater, Trinkle MainStage — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a delightful performance of Shrek The Musical in Roanoke.

Lost 80's Live Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Elmwood Park — Tickets vary — Celebrate the 23rd anniversary of Lost 80's Live with iconic New Wave and Pop acts from the 80s.

The Vapors Live Performance

6 PM – 12 AM — Elmwood Park — Tickets required — Experience a nostalgic night with 80's hits featuring The Vapors and other iconic bands.

Shrek The Musical

1-4 p.m. — Mill Mountain Theater, Trinkle MainStage — VIP packages available — Experience the beloved story of Shrek in a spectacular musical performance.

Roanoke Comedy Fest: Rich Vos Live

6:30-11 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Tickets available — Experience the comedic brilliance of Rich Vos, a stand-up legend with decades of laughter to share.

The Concert - A Tribute to ABBA

6-7:30 p.m. — Dr Pepper Park at the Bridges — Ticket prices may vary — Relive the golden days of pop with one of the best ABBA tribute acts in the world.

Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Berglund Center — Tickets required — Experience a captivating laser and light show set to the iconic music of Pink Floyd.

2nd Annual Safe Community Fair

10 AM – 2 PM — Berglund Center — Registration fee required — Celebrate community spirit with music, food, and fun activities for all ages.