Good morning, Roanoke.

Yesterday, many locals visited Market Street for its annual sidewalk sale, enjoying vendor deals & a friendly shopping atmosphere.

The event highlighted local businesses and community spirit in a lively outdoor setting.

Sugaree, a 6-year-old brown Labrador Retriever mix (at the shelter since November 2023), is available for adoption at the Franklin County Humane Society.

She is known for her calm nature and love for people, making her a great fit for families.

A Few Old Goats Brewing in Buchanan is teaming with Beaver Dam Farm to release a unique *sunflower beer* made with roasted sunflower seeds.

The new American Wheat Ale debuts this Saturday and may sell out in two weeks.

Roanoke City Public Schools and Virginia Tech continue to use Canvas for online learning despite a major data breach earlier this year.

School officials said Instructure upgraded security measures - institutions reviewed the platform to ensure it safely handles assignments and course content.

Virginia State Police launched a teen defensive driving program in Roanoke on Aug.22 to help reduce crash rates by teaching safe driving techniques.

The initiative gives teens hands-on training and tips for better traffic safety.

The Excel Center helps adults earn a full high school diploma with the same curriculum and state test requirements as traditional schools (teachers are ready for a fast-paced second year).

Washington & Lee will expand its tuition program in fall, offering free room and board for families below $75K and tuition for those under $200K.

Emory & Henry enrolled a record class, Roanoke College launches a leadership program, and Roanoke County Public Schools seek feedback on a new strategic plan.

Virginia water use fell 5% since 2019 as retiring coal plants offset increased demand from data centers, including Google's planned Botetourt County facility.

The center is set to use 1.2 million gallons a day, roughly equivalent to three local golf courses (Ashley Plantation Country Club).

Fifteen years ago on August 23, a 5.8 earthquake rocked Mineral and sent tremors through downtown Roanoke; office workers felt shifting floors + schools evacuated as inspectors checked building safety while the quake caused $300 million in damage with no fatalities.

Local volunteer fire departments are facing rising costs as inflation strains funding for essential safety services (Radio IQ reporter Fred Echols explained the revenue shortfall).

Rye Cove scored a final minute touchdown to beat Lord Boteourt in a low-scoring, closely contested game.

The win boosted their season record & energized the team.