Daily
Roanoke
Tuesday, November 18th, 2025
Good morning, Roanoke. Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 18th of November.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Jayden, a thirteen-year-old who loves cooking, math and sports, shows care for his community by helping his friends—he dreams of a future as a chef and awaits a forever family that treats him well. WSLS 10
- ➤ TAP’s free VITA Tax Clinic helps lower income families file taxes and get back more than $17 million, and it was honored statewide as the Independent Group Winner at the 2025 Governor’s Volunteerism and Community Service Awards—an award for 20 years of volunteer work. The clinic now needs at least 10 new volunteers to serve more families and invites sign-ups until December 10—training will begin in December. The Roanoke Star
- ➤ Angels of Assisi shared plans for a big pet adoption event that will help animals find new homes. The group provided details on the event schedule and services—encouraging local residents to join the effort. WDBJ7
- ➤ Roanoke County released its Winter 2025-2026 RecLife brochure, which details community programs for youth, families and fitness along with art classes and day trips. Illuminights at Explore Park will run from November 22 to January 4 — copies are available at Green Ridge Recreation Center, Brambleton Recreation Center, Explore Park and the County Administration Center. Roanoke County
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Appalachian Power will rebuild 18 miles of a transmission line in Floyd, Montgomery and Pulaski counties by installing steel towers 30 feet taller than the existing ones; the company will hold informal open houses on Dec 9 at the Radford Recreation Center and on Dec 10 at Hotel Floyd to gather public input on the route. The utility will file its plan with state regulators next year and, if approved, construction will begin in early 2031 and end by late 2032. Cardinal News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Mill Mountain Theatre announced its cherished holiday tradition will return this season—officials said details about the schedule and activities are forthcoming. WDBJ7
- ➤ The Christmas tree has arrived downtown in Roanoke as Urban Forestry crews completed its setup ahead of the season's celebrations. The official tree lighting will take place on Dec. 5 during the Delta Dental Dickens event—featuring a parade and pet costume contest. WSLS 10
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Roanoke gas prices increased 2.8 cents per gallon last week, averaging $2.82 on November 17 from a GasBuddy survey of 155 stations—local prices remain 7.7 cents lower than a year ago. WDBJ7
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The Roanoke Symphony Orchestra is launching a permanently endowed school arts fund to honor the late Dr. Rita Bishop, who served 13 years as superintendent of Roanoke City Public Schools (her career is celebrated locally) and will support arts programs (final board approval is expected soon). WFIR News
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Fires in Botetourt and Craig counties were contained yesterday as local fire officials confirmed successful efforts—though some areas remained temporarily restricted for safety. WDBJ7
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital has opened an expanded emergency department waiting room today that features a private family consult room, a dedicated area for stable patients, and a vending space—new artwork adds a welcoming touch. The renovated space provides extra seating while the current ED entrance remains in use to ensure uninterrupted care. The Roanoke Star
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Virginia Tech hired James Franklin as its new head football coach; contract details have not been released yet — he was fired by Penn State in October after losses to UCLA and Northwestern. WFIR News
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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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The Darkside Experience - Pink Floyd Tribute
8:00-9:30 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Cost Info Not Provided — Immerse yourself in the iconic sounds of Pink Floyd with a heartfelt tribute performance.
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Holiday Pops Spectacular by Roanoke Symphony Orchestra
7:30-9 p.m. — Salem Civic Center — $31-$56, Children 12 & under $12 — Experience a heartwarming celebration of holiday classics with LaTetra Lewis and the Pops.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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Reveal the authorAbout Daily Roanoke
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