Good morning, Roanoke.

Natural Bridge State Park has launched the 'Gem' shuttle—an accessible, free five-seater electric ride that helps visitors and pets bypass 137 steps to the bridge.

The project, funded by Friends of the Natural Bridge and Rockbridge Community Health Foundation, also adds QR codes to guide guests with vision challenges.

Roanoke’s Happenings calendar lists a full week of events starting October 23 featuring theater shows, ghost tours, live music and art workshops at local venues.

Organizers advise contacting venues for any schedule updates—ticketed entries apply to some events.

Fostering Champions is a nonprofit serving teens aging out of foster care in the Roanoke Valley—its founder Bobby Canipe, who once experienced foster care himself, started the group and opened a home in February to offer housing and resources.

A local moving company Two Men and a Truck is hosting its third annual Movers for Mutts donation drive for Angels of Assisi until October 31—an effort that supports pet care programs such as a community pet clinic and farm sanctuary.

Donations may be dropped off at the company’s main location and several partner sites across Roanoke Valley—providing neighbors a way to help pets in need.

Roanoke-based VFP will invest $35 million in its Duffield campus in Scott County — creating 200 jobs and doubling production capacity in its largest expansion in five years.

Gov. Glenn Youngkin said the move will help drive growth and new opportunities for local workers.

Today, Tacos Los Toros opens its new indoor location on Orange Ave as it expands from its food truck and Hershberger outlet.

The restaurant will operate from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and close an hour earlier on Sunday—General Manager Juan Albarez said a signature molcajete dish made with heated volcanic rock will lead the menu.

Job numbers slowed in New River Valley as manufacturing companies stopped refilling positions amid global supply chain issues — Kevin Byrd of the New River Valley Regional Commission said hiring will pick up when tariff policies ease.

The Montgomery County Fire & EMS Academy taught students firefighting techniques on October 21 using classroom lessons and hands-on drills—helping them build practical skills in emergency response.

The program aimed to prepare participants for active roles in fire safety.

Virginia Tech researchers in the Center for Ecosystem Forecasting received a $1 million, four-year NSF grant to expand water quality models by linking land processes with reservoir forecasting for Carvins Cove.

They are working with the Western Virginia Water Authority to build a real-time model that predicts water quality changes from one day to six months ahead—helping protect local water supplies.

More than 439,000 Virginia families rely on SNAP for help buying food, and if the federal government does not reopen soon, November payments will be delayed—leaving many without essential support.

The Roanoke City Sheriff's Office hosted its Annual Faith and Blue Event on Oct.

21 — uniting law enforcement and local faith groups for community support.

The Roanoke City Sheriff’s Department is co-hosting its annual Faith and Blue Event at Spirit of Life Church International on Plantation Road this Saturday, October 25 to support community wellness and offer free medication disposal with RAYSAC for National Drug Takeback Day.

The department will also host its 3rd annual Spooky Boo spectacular at the Berglund Center on Halloween to round out the fall festival season.

Local health officials have asked residents to report any signs of avian influenza—people noticing unusual bird illnesses or related symptoms should contact local health services immediately.

This advisory aims to help limit the spread of the virus.

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.

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.

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.

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.