Daily
Roanoke
Wednesday, November 19th, 2025
Good morning, Roanoke. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 19th of November.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Valley Metro celebrated its 50th anniversary at Third Street Station on Salem Avenue after unveiling a new logo this morning — more events are planned soon as it marks half a century of connecting people, places, and progress. Mayor Joe Cobb said operating bus routes involves many moving parts to serve all corners of the city. WFIR News
- ➤ Roanoke’s Happenings events calendar for November 19th through 26th lists local cultural, music, art, and holiday events at venues in Roanoke and Salem — organizers advise readers to verify details with each venue for any last-minute changes. The Roanoke Rambler
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Roanoke’s Rail Yard Hobby Shop, which has offered model train collections since 1988, will close permanently on November 30th as owner Jim Molinary retires without a successor. Long-time customers are taking advantage of a 25 percent discount on O Gauge trains as they shop for final pieces for their collections. WFXR-TV
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Actress Alicia Silverstone is offering a reward of up to $50,000 for tips on two missing baby giraffes—legal disputes have led to a judge ruling the animals as state property and criminal probes following manager Gretchen Mogensen’s jail reporting. Cardinal News
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Today, Fort Chiswell Library—part of the Wythe-Grayson Regional Library system—opened from 5 to 7 p.m. Volunteers restored a former bank building and set up tutoring, a children's room, meeting space, and wifi while regional books are available on a BookMobile service. WVTF
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Roanoke schools have completed six solar panel installations that save on energy and roof costs and plan 32 installations to produce 10 megawatts of power. Secure Solar Futures is now proposing to install panels on city buildings under a power purchase agreement—where the city pays only for the power produced—with council members listening but taking no formal action. WVTF
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Beth Macy, a best-selling local author, hosted her campaign kickoff Tuesday in Roanoke as she announced her run to challenge Congressman Ben Cline for Virginia’s 6th District seat. Ken Mitchell and Pete Barlow are also running, and the primaries will be held on June 16. WDBJ7
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ The Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation—working with local Dunkin’ franchisees—awarded a $7,000 grant to Carilion Children’s Hospital last week to fund play therapy resources in the child life area for pediatric patients. The Roanoke Star
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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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