Saturday, November 8th, 2025
Good morning, Roanoke. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 8th of November.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Roanoke’s Humble Hustle Company Inc. is hosting its 10th annual coat drive for elementary students at Preston Park with a goal of collecting 195 brand-new coats—volunteers will sort the donations on Tuesday, November 18 and students will receive them on November 19. WDBJ7
- ➤ Salvation Army Roanoke kicked off its annual Red Kettle Campaign on November 7 at Food Lion on Hollins Road to collect donations and volunteers. Lt. Antonio Hodges said the campaign aims to raise $185,000 and needs 1500 volunteer hours—supporting services for over 750 local families. WDBJ7
- ➤ The Salem-Roanoke County Chamber is partnering with Feeding Southwest Virginia and the Salem Civic Center to host a drive-through food drop on Nov. 14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.—it supports the Virginia Cares Initiative announced by Gov. Youngkin amid paused SNAP benefits. WSLS 10
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ A new strip club with live entertainers may open soon on Franklin Road, though renovations are on hold after work began without proper permits—city officials are reviewing Brent Jackson's $50,000 remodeling plans. The board must decide if a zoning review is needed before residents can comment. WSLS 10
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Blacksburg High School students are leading a fundraiser to fill 600 Thanksgiving meal baskets for local families in need as donations remain short $4,000—food donations will be accepted until November 14 with discounts offered by Home Depot and Kroger on basket supplies. This annual initiative comes as families face increased requests amid economic challenges and a looming government shutdown that could cut federal food funding. WDBJ7
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Two wildfires continue to burn in Jefferson National Forest near Oriskany—the Bald Mountain fire has scorched about 2,000 acres along the Botetourt-Craig County line while a 130-acre Lignite fire is being fought by multi-agency teams using helicopters and aircraft, and officials urge residents to avoid open burning. WSLS 10
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Governor Glenn Youngkin announced that Virginia has submitted a $1B funding application under the VA Rural Vitality plan to modernize rural healthcare and improve access to quality services in underserved areas—supporting workforce development, innovative care models and advanced technology through DMAS, VDH and local partners. WDBJ7
- ➤ The U.S. Forest Service awarded a $240 million contract to Kiewit Corporation to rebuild 17 miles of the Virginia Creeper Trail—heavily damaged by Hurricane Helene last year—with work starting this month on 30 trestle bridges. The trail is expected to reopen next fall—restoring a popular route for local riders. WVTF
- ➤ A government shutdown has caused flight delays—travelers have experienced cancellations at the Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport. Officials say the delays could grow if the shutdown lasts longer. WDBJ7
- ➤ FAA cutbacks caused Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport to cancel three flights on Friday—about ten percent of their departing passengers, and a Delta flight will be cancelled today with another on Sunday. Passengers are advised to check flight statuses and remain flexible with travel plans. WSLS 10
- ➤ Officials announced that the entrance ramp to I-81 north in Botetourt County will close soon—drivers are advised to use alternate routes—while improvements are made. WDBJ7
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Today, a VHSL playoff primer outlines decisive matchups across several regions—Salem at 4-5 in Region 4D still has a chance if key teams lose later, while contests in regions 5C, 3C, 3D, 2C, 2D, 1C, and 1D must produce clear seeding outcomes. Upcoming games, including the Millbrook-Handley contest this afternoon, will determine playoff spots and final rankings. Cardinal News
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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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The Ultimate Elvis Tribute - Christmas
7:30-9 p.m. — Jefferson Center — Cost info not provided — Celebrate the holidays with Graceland's Ultimate Elvis Champion and a spectacular tribute experience.
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The Rock Orchestra By Candlelight
8-9:30 p.m. — Berglund Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a mesmerizing fusion of iconic rock anthems and classical music in a stunning candlelit setting.
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Paint Your Pet 15
2-4 p.m. — Big Lick Brewing Company, LLC — Ticket required — Unleash your inner artist while painting your furry friend in a fun-filled atmosphere.
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Nutcracker Magical Christmas Ballet
7-8:30 p.m. — Jefferson Center — Ticket prices apply — Experience a spectacular holiday tradition featuring an international cast and enchanting puppetry.
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Champions of Magic - Holiday Spectacular
7-8:30 p.m. — Berglund Center — Tickets required — Experience an enchanting evening of dazzling illusions and festive surprises for the whole family.
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The Rescue Mission Drumstick Dash
5 AM – 11 PM — Elmwood Park — Registration fee applies — Participate in a festive 5k run and family walk to support the Rescue Mission's meal services.
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Phat Laces Concert
8-10 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Cost not specified — Celebrate a post-Thanksgiving night with a vibrant hip-hop tribute featuring rap and funk influences.
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