Good morning, Roanoke.

House of Bread nonprofit runs a bake-off fundraiser on Saturday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Greene Memorial United Methodist Church, featuring a baking competition, soup and bread dinner and a celebrity dessert auction with Mayor Joe Cobb, Councilwoman Vivian Sanchez-Jones and Delegate Sam Rasoul.

The Rotary Club of Roanoke-Downtown partnered with the Rescue Mission to dedicate a Peace Pole outside the women and children’s center, displaying messages in English, Spanish, French and Arabic.

The dedication is part of an International Peace Pole movement promoting lasting community harmony.

Floyd County hosts 30 plein air painters this week for the biennial, where artists capture natural scenes — including spots on the Blue Ridge Parkway and Rocky Knob.

The six-day event features live painting rounds, quick-draw contests, and art sale opportunities.

Mill Mountain Zoo will host an event Saturday, Sept.

19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to observe International Red Panda Day — the zoo will teach conservation by highlighting its red panda Frank, offering educational activities and a photo opportunity with mascot Amanda Panda.

Three local cultural events are scheduled: Oklahoma!, a Rogers and Hammerstein musical, opens its 3-week run at Mill Mountain Theatre beginning Wednesday; Opera Roanoke launches its 51st season with La Traviata this weekend at Jefferson Center, and Taubman Museum presents Pop PupMuseum on Saturday (11 to 2 p.m.).

Roanoke County tourism spending grew 7.1% in 2025 to $141.7 million and supported 1,365 jobs, credited to investments in Explore Park, sports tourism, and a partnership with Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge; it also generated $40.8 million in labor income and $7.7 million in tax revenue, strengthening local services.

Franklin County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Kevin Siers announced he will retire at the end of this school year — he will submit his paperwork this winter — and work with staff to ensure a smooth leadership transition.

Gov. Abigail Spanberger declared a state of emergency Wednesday to help local farmers facing a hay shortage from drought conditions.

The order gives trucks + temporary permits to carry bigger hay loads and will stay in effect for 45 days.

Beth Macy, a longtime Roanoke reporter known for her work on the opioid crisis, has outraised her opponent in a tight congressional race in the 6th District.

Voters will decide the next representative on Tuesday, Nov. 3.

September is brain aneurysm awareness month as Dr. Mark Bain advises those with high blood pressure, heavy smoking, or a family history to get MRI screening since many aneurysms show no symptoms* early detection may reduce the risk of fatal ruptures.