Good morning, Roanoke.

The Greater Williamson Road Area Business Association will host its 2nd Annual Commonwealth Day of Play at Brookside Par 2 golf course on Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. Attendees enjoy free food, games and pointers from high school golfers (the first 20 kids receive a sleeve of golf balls).

Volunteers, along with sponsors Bug Man Exterminating + Marvin Windows and Habitat for Humanity staff, are nearly wrapping up the Home for Good project on Melrose Avenue that will soon provide one family with a new home.

The Taubman Museum of Art hosts an exhibit highlighting Washington's capture of Yorktown with interactive displays and artifacts including a map and leather portfolio through Oct.

11. A discussion with Adam Erby is scheduled for Aug. 7 to offer historical context.

Virginia Steel and Fabrication will invest $3.6 million to expand its facility on Progress Drive in Bland County to add 52 new jobs and increase its workforce from 19 to 70+.

The expansion is supported by a $200,000 state grant and coordinated workforce training by local and state partners.

Virginia regulators ordered data centers to pay for power grid upgrades instead of shifting costs to consumers — a move championed by Governor Spanberger today — and Dominion Energy must now draft rules to enforce the new mandate while planning over 200 transmission projects.

Park Roanoke proposes ending parking meters and extending free street and lot parking to ease downtown parking challenges, with changes pending City Council approval and a rollout over nine to 12 months.

The upgrade is expected to benefit local businesses and residents.

Chad Heddleston, a local climber and filmmaker, scaled the Mill Mountain Star on July 30 under special permission—reserved for experts—which led city officials to advise against imitation.

The city wrapped up its yearlong parking study for downtown and River’s Edge and will review recommendations to boost visitor convenience.

SpecialtyRx opened a new pharmacy in Roanoke last week to serve senior living communities, with Mayor Joe Cobb cutting the ribbon.

The facility currently serves 1,500 residents within 100 miles and plans to expand to 10,000 patients while tripling its 20-member team + partnering with local colleges for training.

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.