Articles by Liz Long
Win 4 Free Tickets to Taubman Museum’s Through the Decades: Glowback Party
Pick an era. Make it neon. Then get ready for a night of silent disco, live performances, red carpet photo ops, interactive art, food trucks, drinks, and early access to “American Made” before it opens to the public. Grab your favorite party people and start planning your look! Two centuries of American art are about to become one very big, bright party.
Win 2 Free Tickets to Opera Roanoke’s La Traviata!
Prize Package Details: ONE (1) lucky winner will receive TWO (2) free Center Orchestra Tickets to Opera Roanoke’s production of La Traviata at 2:30 PM on their choice of either 9/19 or 9/20. (Tickets will be held at will call.) Total Value: $150 Performance Information: Reimagining the world of La traviata with a contemporary lens, Opera Roanoke opens its 51st season with a visually striking and emotionally immediate experience.
2027 Readers’ Choice Dining Awards Winners Toolkit
Dear Winner, Congratulations on being voted as a winner in the 2027 Readers’ Choice Dining Awards Winners Toolkit! We hope you are just as excited as we are to celebrate and share your win with the world. Below is a complimentary toolkit with graphics for you to share as you wish. When sharing on socials, please consider using the hashtag #RoanokerDiningAwards Congratulations again! Instagram Post [Download Here] Instagram Story [Download Here] Facebook Cover [Download Here]
Nominate The Class of 2027: 40 Under 40
The Roanoker magazine’s 8th Annual 40 Under 40 Awards will honor the dynamic young professionals who work tirelessly to affect positive change and enhance the community. • The deadline for nominations is midnight on October 4, 2026 and the finalists will be revealed in the January/February 2027 issue. • To be considered for 40 Under 40, an individual must be 39 years or younger as of March 1, 2027. • Past winners are not eligible.
Gillian Welch & David Rawlings Bring Their Acclaimed Live Performance to Berglund Center on October 22
Berglund Center is proud to welcome acclaimed singer-songwriters Gillian Welch & David Rawlings to Berglund Performing Arts Theatre on Thursday, October 22, 2026. Known for their masterful storytelling, timeless harmonies, and unmistakable blend of folk, bluegrass, and Americana, the Grammy Award-winning duo will deliver an unforgettable evening of music for fans across the region.
Saturdays July 18 & August 29 Free at the Roanoke History & O. Winston Link Museums
The Roanoke History & O. Winston Link Museums will offer free admission to visitors from Roanoke City, Roanoke County, Salem, Botetourt, Bedford, Craig, Franklin, Floyd, and Montgomery Counties on Saturday July 18 and Saturday August 29, 2026. The museums’ Summer Saturday Series is part of a larger initiative to provide greater access to the region’s history, art, and material culture. New exhibitions include interactive experiences with hands-on discovery stations for everyone to explore.
The Body Mechanic Approved as VA Community Care Provider
The Body Mechanic is proud to announce its approval as a participating provider in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Community Care Network (CCN), marking the successful completion of a two-year approval process. This approval allows eligible veterans with authorized VA Community Care referrals to receive medically focused massage therapy services at The Body Mechanic, bringing targeted pain relief, injury recovery support, and improved quality of life closer to home.
Grammy-Winning Steep Canyon Rangers and Regional Favorites Phat Laces Headline Weekend at The Dog Bowl
The 5 Points Music Foundation and Black Dog Salvage invite music lovers to a full weekend of live music at The Dog Bowl at Black Dog Salvage, featuring two distinctly different performances in one of the region’s most unique outdoor concert venues. The weekend begins Saturday, July 11, with Grammy Award-winning bluegrass group Steep Canyon Rangers, joined by special guest, rising Boones Mill songwriter, Colby T. Helms.
BEHIND THE SCREAM: A Live Conversation with David Arquette
Get ready for an unforgettable evening when David Arquette goes BEHIND THE SCREAM, a thrilling live conversation featuring a special 30th anniversary screening of the iconic horror film SCREAM, followed by an in-depth moderated interview and Q&A with the legendary actor, David Arquette, who played the beloved character Dewey Riley in the franchise.
Clarity Vet Consulting Launches in Roanoke
ROANOKE, Va. — July 6, 2026 — A new specialized veterinary service, Clarity Vet Consulting, has officially launched in the Roanoke Valley, marking the region’s first practice exclusively dedicated to pet palliative care, hospice care, and in-home euthanasia services. Founded by Dr. Carrie Turnbull, a veterinarian with more than 20 years of experience, Clarity Vet Consulting aims to bring comfort to pets and clarity to families during one of the most challenging chapters of pet ownership.
Joe Bonamassa Announces 2027 U.S. Spring Tour, Includes Berglund Center
Special Fan Presale Begins Tuesday, July 7th at 10am Local Time Public On-Sale Begins Friday, July 10th at 10am Local Time For Tickets and Information, Visit jbonamassa.com/tour-dates Blues-rock titan Joe Bonamassa has announced a new run of Spring 2027 U.S. tour dates, bringing one of today’s most celebrated live guitarists back to theaters and performing arts centers across the country.
VWCC Designated NC3 Leadership School, Expanding Industry Impact
Virginia Western Community College is pleased to announce the College’s new role with the National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3) with designation as an NC3 Leadership School. This will enhance regional opportunities in advanced manufacturing and industrial technology. Virginia Western’s Workforce Solutions division hosted an event Thursday, July 2, to showcase the impact this will have on students and highlight the College’s advanced, industry-informed lab spaces.
Angels of Assisi and Bedford Community Pet Coalition to Host Low-Cost Mobile Pet Health Clinic
Angels of Assisi, in partnership with Community Pet Coalition of Bedford, will host a low-cost Mobile Pet Health Clinic on Friday, July 10, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the parking lot of the Bedford County Animal Shelter, located at 1307 Falling Creek Road, Bedford, VA 24523. The mobile clinic is open to all dog and cat owners looking for accessible veterinary care. No appointments are necessary and pets will be seen on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limit of three pets per family.
Roanoke Foodshed Network Awards Mini-Grants in Region
The Roanoke Foodshed Network (RFN) is excited to announce the recipients of the 2026–2027 Healthy Community Action Team (HCAT) Mini-Grants, funded through the Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth. This funding cycle, the Roanoke Foodshed Network awarded $19,375 to 12 organizations advancing community health and food access across the Roanoke region.
2027 Top Lawyers
Attention lawyers in the greater Roanoke and Lynchburg areas – nominate a top lawyer today! How do you define a top-level attorney? While a substantial number of wins or taking on high-profile cases can earn you recognition, it’s a lawyer’s reputation—both inside and outside of the courtroom—that really sets them apart.
Roanoke College Launching 3-Year Degrees in Public Administration, Cannabis Studies
Roanoke College is expanding opportunities for more learners with the introduction of three-year bachelor’s degrees designed to help working professionals accelerate their career goals. Enrollment is now open for programs in public administration and cannabis studies. Coursework for both programs is 100% online, ensuring busy students balancing work and home get the flexibility needed to succeed.
Faith Christian School Welcomes Dr. Kyle Rapinchuk as Fifth Head of School
Following the retirement of longtime Head of School Peter Baur after twelve years of faithful leadership, Faith Christian School is pleased to welcome Kyle Rapinchuk, Ph.D., as its fifth Head of School. Dr. Rapinchuk begins serving July 1st, following a year-long national search. Dr. Rapinchuk brings more than fourteen years of experience in Christian classical education. Most recently, he served for two years as Head of School at Sager Classical Academy in Siloam Springs, Arkansas.
Hollins University Celebrates Fourth Consecutive Fulbright Scholar
For the third consecutive year, a Hollins University graduate has been awarded a Fulbright U.S. Student Program Grant. Sophia Kunkel ’25 will spend 10 months in Kazakhstan as an English Teaching Assistant beginning in September 2026. She becomes Hollins’ fourth Fulbright Scholar in three consecutive years, continuing a remarkable streak of international recognition for the university’s students.
Blue Ridge Vascular Opens in Roanoke, Bringing Advanced Minimally Invasive Care to Southwest Virginia
Patients in Roanoke and throughout Southwest Virginia now have a new option for advanced vascular and endovascular care with the opening of Blue Ridge Vascular, an independently owned endovascular practice offering evaluation, diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment in a modern outpatient setting.
Miss Lynchburg Crowned Miss Virginia 2026, Wins $21,000 in Scholarships
Maddie Marchant, a 22-year-old college student from Lebanon, Virginia, was crowned Miss Virginia 2026 on Saturday evening at the Berglund Center for the Performing Arts Theatre in Roanoke. Marchant, previously Miss Lynchburg, won $21,000 in scholarships. A rising senior at East Tennessee State University in Johnson City, Tennessee, Marchant is pursuing a degree in Media & Communications with a minor in Political Science.
Roanoke College launches WorkAI Lab to Prepare Leaders for New Era of Technology
As artificial intelligence transforms what’s possible, Roanoke College is launching WorkAI Lab, a hands-on program that equips professionals with the skills and strategies needed to lead AI adoption within their organizations. The seven-week program combines in-depth training, expert instruction and peer collaboration to help people move beyond experimentation and toward meaningful implementation.
A Piece of Cycling History Finds Its Home in Botetourt County!
Today, a new Virginia Historical Marker was unveiled along Catawba Road, recognizing Botetourt County’s place on the legendary TransAmerica Bicycle Trail (USBR 76). The marker tells the story of Bikecentennial ’76, the cross-country bicycle ride that celebrated America’s Bicentennial and inspired what would become one of the nation’s most iconic cycling routes.
A Community of Care
Written by Liz Long, Editor A few months ago, I turned 41. It wasn’t one of those milestone birthdays that comes with a lot of fanfare, but it did come with something else: perspective. Somewhere along the way, getting older quietly crept up on me.
Botetourt County Celebrates Courthouse Construction Milestone with Topping Off Ceremony
Botetourt County and Jamerson-Lewis Construction invite members of the media and public to attend a ceremonial “Topping Off” celebration marking a major milestone in the construction of the new Botetourt County Circuit Courthouse.
Showtimers Presents “The Drowsy Chaperone”
Showtimers Community Theatre is pleased to present its production of the musical The Drowsy Chaperone. The Drowsy Chaperone is a fun homage to your favorite Golden Age musicals. Featuring fawning lovers, a bumbling best man, a desperate theatre producer, a not-so-bright hostess, two gangsters, a misguided Don Juan, the titular intoxicated chaperone, and 4 weddings, there’s something for everyone. The Drowsy Chaperone is recommended for ages 10+ due to some mature, but humorous subject matter.
Volunteer Monitoring Confirms SML Remains Clean and Safe for Recreation
The Smith Mountain Lake Association Water Quality Monitoring program reports that the second round of sampling this summer season shows a slight improvement over the previous set of readings. The results are in line with SML 20-year averages and indicate that the lake remains clean and safe for recreation. SMLA Water Quality Monitoring volunteer John Trinchere collects a surface water sample.
Virginia Western Revamps IT Program, Adds AI Focus and Radford Pathway
Headlines shout messages that artificial intelligence will take jobs left and right. Entry-level computer programming positions appear to be high on the AI hit list. Yet workforce demand remains for workers who can make sense of the ever-increasing quantities of data that companies are managing. That’s where Dr. Diane Wolff, Professor of Computer Science/Information Technology at Virginia Western Community College, sees an opportunity.
Angels of Assisi to Host First-Ever Summer Mega Adoption Event at Berglund Center
School is out, summer is here, and Angels of Assisi is inviting the community to kick off the season by finding a new best friend at its first-ever Summer Mega Adoption Event, taking place Saturday, June 27, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Berglund Center Special Events Center.
Mountain Star Herbals Opens in Downtown Roanoke
Mountain Star Herbals and the City of Roanoke’s Economic Development Department will host the grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony for the first herb, spice, and tea shop in downtown Roanoke (7A Church Ave. SE) on Thursday, June 18 at 3:30.
George’s Flowers Prepares to Bloom in a New Home on Ogden Road
Every gardener knows that sometimes growth requires a little more room to bloom. After serving the Roanoke Valley for more than 45 years and spending over a quarter of a century on Franklin Road, George’s Flowers is preparing to plant new roots in a new home.
Boaters Asked to Go Slow for SML Fireworks Celebrations
Smith Mountain Lake is a great place to watch fireworks from the water. To make sure the experience is as safe as it is fun, the Smith Mountain Lake Association Water Safety Council and local law enforcement agencies have defined no-wake zones in the water around two major fireworks displays. The area around the Mitchell’s Point Marina fireworks display on July 2 will be considered to be a no-wake zone.
Cheryl Sullivan-Willis to Emcee Juneteenth Freedom Jubilee Presentations at Historic Greenfield
Historic Greenfield’s Juneteenth Freedom Jubilee 2026 celebration will feature a special afternoon of education, reflection, and community engagement, led by longtime community advocate and Botetourt County resident Cheryl Sullivan-Willis. Sullivan-Willis will serve as emcee for Saturday afternoon’s (June 20th) activities, which begin with three presentations highlighting Historic Greenfield Plantation’s past, present, and future.
Whitney Cummings Brings ‘Big Baby’ Tour to Berglund Center in November
Due to overwhelming demand, renowned comedian, writer, producer, and director Whitney Cummings is extending her Big Baby stand-up comedy tour through December of 2026. After a wildly successful 2025 run with sold-out shows nationwide, Cummings’ new dates ensure she remains at the forefront as one of the most influential voices in comedy. “The response to the Big Baby tour has been so overwhelming, I’m excited to extend it,” said Cummings.
Kiwanis Club of Roanoke Awards Environmental Scholarship Award of $5,000 to Kai Weiss of Salem
The Kiwanis Club of Roanoke is pleased to announce that Kai Alexander Weiss of Salem is this year’s winner of the Kiwanis Club of Roanoke’s $5,000 environmental scholarship. Mr. Weiss is a Salem High School graduate and a rising junior majoring in Forestry at Virginia Tech. He will be given the award at the Wednesday, June 17 meeting of the Kiwanis Club at Charter Hall in the Roanoke Market Building.
LEAP Celebrates Community at Garden Gala Fundraiser
With the support of our community, LEAP hosts a community-style fundraiser to support fresh food access and local farmers in the Roanoke region. Local Environmental Agriculture Project (LEAP) will host its annual Garden Gala on Friday, June 12th from 6-8pm. Set against the backdrop of summer blooms and growing vegetables in LEAP’s Mountain View Community Garden, this community fundraiser supports local agriculture and food access in the Roanoke Region.
Angels of Assisi and Roanoke Police Department to Host Mobile Pet Health Clinic June 12
ROANOKE, Va. – Angels of Assisi and the Roanoke Police Department invite pet owners to attend a Mobile Pet Health Clinic on Friday, June 12, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Roanoke-Salem Plaza, located at the intersection of Melrose Avenue and Peter’s Creek Road. The clinic will provide low-cost preventive veterinary services for dogs and cats, helping families keep their pets healthy and up to date on essential care.
Broadway In Roanoke Announces 2026-27 Season
THE WIZ · THE BODY · GUARDSHUCKED · BEETLEJUICE · WAITRESS Roanoke, VA – Nederlander National Markets, in partnership with The Berglund Center, is excited to announce the all-new 2026/2027 Broadway in Roanoke season. This season features five blockbuster productions, including the Roanoke premieres of THE WIZ and BEETLEJUICE. Subscriptions are on sale now! Five-show packages start at just $245.
chocolatepaper Celebrates 20 Years with “cp 2.0” Anniversary Events
ROANOKE, VA, June 3, 2026 – chocolatepaper is excited to announce its 20th anniversary on June 23 and a packed lineup of celebration sales and events. Make plans to see all that “cp 2.0” has to offer: same sweet selection, fun fresh finds, and NEW ERA ENERGY! The “cp 2.0” celebration reflects chocolatepaper’s next chapter – sweet with a dose of sass – as the store focuses on creating more memorable customer experiences.
More than 24 tons of debris was collected from in and around Smith Mountain Lake during lake cleanup days in May. The organized kick off event took place on May 2 and efforts continued throughout the month by various community groups. In all, more than 450 people participated in lake cleanup days, covering more than 49 miles. Tri-County Lakes Administrative Commission (TLAC), a co-sponsor of the event, recorded 24.52 tons of trash and debris collected in dumpsters and trash bags.
Local Animal Shelters Urge Community to Adopt as Dog Adoptions Decline Across the Region
Angels of Assisi and the Regional Center for Animal Care & Protection (RCACP) are urging community members to consider adopting from local shelters as dog adoptions continue to decline across the Roanoke Valley and surrounding region. Leaders from both organizations recently met to discuss concerning adoption trends they have experienced so far this year, particularly surrounding dogs.
Salem Ridge Yak’s Girls’ Night Out Giveaway
Enter for a chance to win a 4-pack of tickets for Girls’ Night Out at the Salem Ridge Yaks! Winner Receives: • FOUR (4) reserved seating tickets to the Salem Ridge Yaks • FOUR (4) free meal vouchers for a soda and hot dog • FOUR (4) free Mac the Yak T-shirts For more info about the Salem Ridge Yaks, visit RidgeYaks.com.
Celebrating Five Years of Style with Rachelle Walker of WyndRose Boutique
WyndRose Boutique Rachelle Walker is celebrating five years in business—a major milestone in the retail world and a testament to the loyal local support that has helped the business grow. From curating styles and home décor that inspire confidence and creativity to creating a welcoming, experience-driven atmosphere, Rachelle shares what has shaped WyndRose into a beloved destination for shoppers across the region and beyond.
Virginia Foundation for Community College Education Honors Philanthropists at 20th Annual Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy Luncheon
Diane and William Elliot and Davis H. Elliot Company, Inc. of Roanoke, Va., have received the 20th Annual Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy. They were nominated by Virginia Western Community College. Hosted by the Virginia Foundation for Community College Education (VFCCE), the 20th Annual Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy Luncheon brings together over 200 guests to recognize outstanding philanthropic contributions to Virginia’s Community Colleges.
2027 Best Of Central + Southwest Virginia Weddings
Our region has become an elite wedding scene filled with incredible venues, vendors, designers and so much more. However, it can be overwhelming for engaged couples to even know where to begin. The Best Of Central + Southwest Virginia Weddings is a way for our readership to determine who the BEST in the local wedding industry are so soon-to-be newlyweds can use the results as a reliable resource in their planning.
Contests & Events
A guide to the Roanoke’s diverse neighborhoods, where history, lifestyle and outdoor access shape the way residents live, work and
40 Under 40 | The Roanoker
This street is still as busy as it was nearly 100 years ago, though with a bit of a facelift
The Gist - The Roanoker
The numbers are going up in our region — what are we doing to improve it?
Our Guide to Festivals in Virginia’s Blue Ridge
In Virginia’s Blue Ridge, festival season isn’t limited to a single weekend or even a single season. From the first signs of spring through the twinkling lights of December, communities across the Roanoke Valley and surrounding mountains celebrate with music, food, culture, and outdoor adventure. Whether it’s a longtime tradition or a newer gathering that’s quickly become a favorite, these festivals offer a chance to experience the people and places that make this region special.
Celebrating Spring in Virginia's Blue Ridge
Spring is settling in quickly across the Roanoke region, and with warmer days comes a full lineup of ways to enjoy life in Virginia's Blue Ridge. From mountain views to weekend markets, the season offers plenty of reasons to step outside and explore.
The Art of the Cigar
The story below is from our March/April 2026 issue. For more stories like it, Subscribe Today. Thank you! From rare cigars to curated pairings, Bison Head Cigar & Lounge connects aficionados and newcomers alike in a welcoming lounge. For nearly a decade, Jimmy R. Lewis worked in the cigar industry while living in Southwest Virginia. Over the years, he noticed a recurring message from Roanoke cigar enthusiasts.
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