Good morning, Roanoke.

Ray Shrader worried about trees leaning on utility lines along Wood Haven Road as he feared a fire, and an investigation found the wires are not live—Verizon said its teams will trim the overhanging branches by the end of this week.

Hitachi Energy announced plans Thursday to build a transformer facility in South Boston that will create more than 825 jobs and receive a $457 million investment—boosting energy production in Southside Virginia.

A man was arrested on September 4th for a robbery in Roanoke—police are investigating the case.

Two teens, 18-year-old Jawward Saunders and 16-year-old God Allahson Saunders were indicted on first-degree murder and firearm charges in connection with the fatal shooting of Isaac Lamont Cunningham that took place in early August + they are set to return to court on Oct.

6.

Senator Warner sharply criticized HHS Secretary Robert F.

Kennedy Jr. during a Senate Finance Committee hearing on September 4—he questioned Kennedy's knowledge of nearly one million COVID deaths and rural healthcare shortages. He also invited Kennedy to visit a local healthcare center to discuss ways to improve services in rural areas.

Roanoke is rebuilding the 1938 Wasena Bridge as work that began in May 2024 is 65% complete; crews will start building the deck next month, continue work on the piers and utility work + installing stay in place forms, with final completion now set for mid-summer 2026.

Road closures remain in effect for safety.

The Suicide Prevention Council and Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare are joining forces this month for suicide prevention education—planned events will offer resources and information to community members throughout September.

Roanoke Valley Brick Convention

10:00 AM - 11:30 AM — Salem Civic Center — Tickets $15 online, $20 day of — Discover the ultimate LEGO experience with massive displays and hands-on activities.

Crash The Cove Paddle Race

8 AM – 2 PM — Carvins Cove Natural Reserve — Registration required — Compete in the inaugural paddle race featuring a 2 mile sprint and a 5 mile distance challenge.

K92 Laugh Lounge Comedy Show

7:30-11:30 p.m. — The Grandin Theatre — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of standup comedy with nationally touring comedian Jeremy Alder.

ALABAMA Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Berglund Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a classic American band’s rags-to-riches story live on stage.

Clem Snide Concert

8-10 p.m. — The Spot on Kirk — Cost not listed — Enjoy an Americana music night with the renowned Clem Snide band.

Symphony Under the Stars

6-9 PM — Elmwood Park Amphitheater — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful evening of music under the stars with the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra.

2025 NCS Take the Hill 5K & Kids Fun Run

12:30-3 p.m. — 4254 Colonial Ave, Cave Spring — Registration fee applies — Participate in a fun-filled day featuring a 5K run, walk, and Kids Fun Run to support the North Cross School Parents' Association.

Ryan Adams Concert

7:00 – 9:30 PM — Berglund Center — Last-minute concert tickets available — Experience live music from the acclaimed Ryan Adams in Roanoke.

KALEO Concert

7-9 p.m. — Berglund Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience KALEO live with their chart-topping hits and electrifying performance.

Bug & Bat Night

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Mill Mountain Discovery Center — $15/individual, $45/family — Enjoy s’mores and learn about nocturnal wildlife and bats using UV lights and microphones.