Good morning, Roanoke.

Residents of Pinnacle Ridge in NE Roanoke are celebrating fall by turning their entrance sign into a Pumpkin Fest — featuring hand-painted pumpkins and seasonal decor.

The four-year tradition brings neighbors together — with each home showcasing a unique design.

Faith-based groups in the Roanoke Valley help Hispanic families by offering free preschool programs and language support; Orchard Hills Achievement Center provides after-school care while Commonwealth Catholic Charities offers interpreter services and refugee resettlement assistance—families can access these benefits regardless of their faith.

Roanoke County Public Schools will hold a meeting today at 6 p.m. at Northside High School to discuss growing concerns about smartphone use and online safety for students—officials advise delaying internet-enabled phones until at least eighth grade.

Roanoke City Schools increased its English Learners program staffing to support over 2,200 students from more than 80 countries by reducing teacher ratios from nearly 50:1 to about 20:1.

Revised Education Department guidelines now allow dedicated teachers to provide more help in classrooms — ensuring smoother learning for students.

Virginia Tech students became the first all-female crew to paddle nearly 1,300 miles across Boundary Waters to raise awareness about mining risks and inspire women in paddle sports; the 80-day trip ended on August 13, and they raised over $12,000 through fundraising — they plan more trips to keep their conservation work going.

Roanoke Fire-EMS shared lithium-ion battery safety tips as Fire Prevention Week ended, urging residents to buy quality devices, use the proper chargers on hard surfaces, and recycle damaged batteries at designated facilities.

The department visited schools and community partners to spread its message—helping locals reduce fire risks.

On Tuesday, the Roanoke City Planning Commission will hold two public hearings to consider rezoning proposals—one for a 195-unit townhome community at 3840 Stratford Park Drive S.W. that seeks to remove a 1996 unit cap and add safety upgrades, and one for a 2-acre site at 5060 Valley View Blvd. N.W. to allow a substance-use treatment center offering up to 80 inpatient beds. The treatment center plan will reuse a building that has been vacant since August 2024 and proposes two levels of care.

City and Virginia Tech officials say Hotel Roanoke, valued at more than $62 million per tax records, may be sold soon + Mayor Joe Cobb said the hotel’s high quality makes it hard to pinpoint an exact price.

This past Saturday saw a near-record turnout at the 10th anniversary half marathon in Salem—runners from nearby and farther away boosted local downtown activities.

Rustburg native Tyler Schmidt won in an hour and 22 minutes while local Mackenzie Gardner finished first among women in 1:27 amid a dramatic race with course challenges.

Jamie McLean Band Live Performance

7:30-9 p.m. — The Spot on Kirk — Tickets available — Experience the electrifying guitar skills of Jamie McLean, known for his work with Aaron Neville.

Roanoke GO Outside Festival

All day — Elmwood Park — Free entry — Celebrate outdoor recreation with music, food, and engaging events at this annual festival.

Matt Mathews Performance

5:00 – 6:30 PM — Berglund Center — Tickets starting at $27 — Enjoy a night of theatrical entertainment with Matt Mathews in Roanoke.

Turnpike Troubadours Concert

5-8:30 p.m. — Salem Civic Center — Tickets from $49.50 — Experience the Wild America Tour 2025 with Turnpike Troubadours and Dawes.

Randy Travis Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Berglund Center — Ticket prices may vary — Experience the legendary Randy Travis as he performs his timeless hits.

Chili Cook-Off at Center in the Square

12-4 p.m. — Center In The Square — $15 for chili tasting — Celebrate Roanoke's tradition with vibrant flavors and a chance to win prizes.

John Fogerty: The Legacy Tour

7-9 p.m. — Salem Civic Center — Tickets starting at $53.50 — Experience classic rock legend John Fogerty performing for the first time in Salem.

Petals & Potions Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Well Hung Vineyard — $90 per person — Create an autumn floral centerpiece while enjoying a curated wine tasting experience.

Greensky Bluegrass Concert

7-9 p.m. — Jefferson Center — Cost Info TBD — Enjoy an evening of electrifying bluegrass music from Greensky Bluegrass.

TobyMac Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Berglund Center — Tickets from $25 — Experience an electrifying evening with TobyMac's inspiring music live in Roanoke.