Daily
Roanoke
Tuesday, October 21st, 2025
Good morning, Roanoke. Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 21st of October.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Roanoke residents shared mixed opinions on the proposed casino, with some hopeful for job growth while others expressed concerns about its impact on the community. City officials said they will hold more meetings to gather further input as the project moves forward. WDBJ7
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ Kaizen Brazilian Jiu Jitsu opened on Oct 4 in Roanoke and was destroyed by a fire six days later—owners Brandon and Julia Hornby said the blaze spread from a nearby building and caused a total loss, though no one was hurt. ABC 13
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Roanoke gas prices fell 4.5 cents per gallon last week, averaging $2.81 on Monday, October 20, according to a GasBuddy survey of 155 stations. Prices are 11.1 cents lower than a year ago and 5 cents lower than last month—figures that mark a steady drop in local fuel costs. WDBJ7
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ A teen who fought cancer graduated with honors on October 20— a milestone reached after battling illness. The achievement marks a significant personal success— a sign of resilience after a long fight. WDBJ7
- ➤ Virginia’s 28 independent colleges are asking lawmakers to boost state funding for the Tuition Assistance Grant program after federal cuts reduced access to loans and grants — a measure they say will help keep college affordable. Former Delegate Chris Peace said the schools plan to raise payments from $5,000 to $5,500 this year and to $6,000 next year — with support from Richmond Delegate Betsy Carr. WVTF
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Sunday marked the 19th day of a federal shutdown that affected national parks, but parts of the Blue Ridge Parkway stayed open thanks to funding from the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation. The grant kept visitor centers like the Blue Ridge Music Center and the Asheville Visitor Center operating during peak season — a critical boost for local communities. ABC 13
- ➤ Virginia Tech is talking with the city about a potential sale of Hotel Roanoke, and the hotel is doing well. Discussions over the jointly owned conference center—aimed at benefiting the community—will continue as plans develop. WSLS 10
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ The Roanoke city health department showed data at a recent council meeting that local residents face higher rates of chronic illness, hospitalizations, and diabetes—risks made worse by poverty—and the department will work with community partners to improve health outcomes. WSLS 10
- ➤ Today, top maternal and infant care experts gathered at Hotel Roanoke for the ninth annual Virginia Neonatal Perinatal Collaborative summit to find new ways to reduce sickness in pregnant women. Sixteen speakers discussed improved care methods—especially for conditions like gestational hypertension—as they shared innovative ideas to support better outcomes. WSLS 10
- ➤ The Virginia Department of Wildlife Services is asking the public to report possible avian flu cases in Southwest Virginia after a confirmed case in Wythe County and preliminary cases in Washington and Smyth counties with additional reports coming from Tazewell, Lynchburg, and Danville—residents should call the Wildlife Conflict Helpline at 1-855-571-9003 if they see five or more dead or sick birds. The department advises following safety precautions when handling dead birds. WSLS 10
- ➤ This week is National Pharmacy Week during American Pharmacist Month — a time to highlight how pharmacists and pharmacy technicians help keep people healthy. Experts Brad McDaniel and Julie Kidd explained their essential roles in supporting the health system. WDBJ7
- ➤ VDH’s Dr. Cynthia Morrow urged residents to get their flu shot and COVID vaccine as respiratory season begins—nearly 80 percent of the year is over—and she said prompt vaccination may help limit illness. WFIR News
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ A historic bank in Roanoke has been turned into a vibrant hotel—its renovation preserved key historic features while offering modern accommodations. The project, reported on Oct. 20, marks a new use for a cherished local landmark. WDBJ7
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Greensky Bluegrass Concert
7-9 p.m. — Jefferson Center — Cost Info TBD — Enjoy an evening of electrifying bluegrass music from Greensky Bluegrass.
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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.
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Disney On Ice: Road Trip Adventures
1-2:30 p.m. — Berglund Center — Family-friendly fun — Embark on a magical journey with Mickey Mouse and friends through iconic Disney destinations.
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Shwayze Live
6:30-11:30 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Tickets available — Experience Shwayze’s feel-good vibes with supporting acts The Quasi Kings and Twin Fin.
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Crowder, Zach Williams & Matt Maher Concert
7-8:30 p.m. — Salem Civic Center — $19.00 to $123.75 — Experience a powerful night of soulful music with Crowder, Zach Williams, and Matt Maher.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
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