Good morning, Roanoke.

On Saturday, Olde Salem Days filled downtown Salem with 303 vendors and eager shoppers + skilled artisans after a brief morning rain.

The event raised funds for local charities and global initiatives.

Blue Ridge Land Conservancy received a $50,000 grant from The Conservation Fund to design a community vision for Evans Spring in Roanoke.

It will work with Friends of Evans Spring and Hill Studio over the next several months—focusing on preserving the natural spring, pond, and woodlands while exploring an affordable housing option.

A guest commentary recalls childhood memories in Southwest Hurt Park and highlights ties to Dr. John Henry Pinkard and Henrietta Lacks, noting that today the neighborhood—rich in history—seeks revitalization that honors its past while embracing a new identity.

The Olde Salem Days event in downtown Salem drew large crowds and featured over 300 vendors selling local food and crafts on Friday, Sept.

11. Visitors enjoyed the community’s lively atmosphere throughout the day.

Habitat for Humanity, the City of Salem and Roanoke College are building a new home for Ayanna Trussell (25), a CNA and mother of a 2-year-old, as part of the R House Project.

Volunteers from the college will work on construction and design so she can move in by December.

Library assistant Brittney Flowers works at Roanoke Public Libraries and consults with HC Smith Ltd. as she researches and documents local Black history.

She also conducts independent genealogy work to help residents uncover overlooked stories (a passion stemming from her lifelong curiosity).

Roanoke native Macklyn Mosley attended Grammy award winning hip hop artist Rapsody's album release party at a private Raleigh venue earlier this month (Mosley said it was an honor to celebrate the new album, God Gotta Afro and Gold Hoops).

Ferrum College posted its highest enrollment in six years, welcoming its largest returning undergraduate class in five years (with over 20% increase) and setting a strong tone for the upcoming academic year beginning in fall 2026.

Virginia Tech hosted Old Dominion at Lane Stadium on Sept.

12 in a game that renewed their charged rivalry after last year's upset — both teams entered with 1-0 records, setting the stage for a competitive season opener.

William Fleming High School and RCPS have named Mackenzie (Coach Mack) Lewis as the new head coach of the girls basketball team.

He brings local experience from Salem High and Northside and focuses on building strong player and academic success.