🌱 Candlelight Vigil For Shooting Victim + American Craft Beer Week

Good morning, Roanokers! It's time for the Friday edition of the Roanoke Patch Newsletter with all the local news you need to know right now. In this issue, you'll learn about...

• RPD lieutenant talks gun violence.
• Crystal Springs hotel progress.
• Jail's education program seeing success.

Let's motor!

But first, today's weather: Pleasant with some sun. High: 71 Low: 56.

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Here are the top stories today in Roanoke:

1. The family of a Roanoke man, Jaleel Tate, 32, who was shot and killed on May 8, organized a candlelight vigil in the same parking lot where Jaleel was shot, and attendees wore red, his favorite color, and shirts with his pictures on them. The shooting left his family and friends devastated. His sister, Kiara, expressed the loss they feel, emphasizing that Jaleel had many unfulfilled goals in life. The suspect in the shooting was revealed to be their cousin, Al-Sherrief Mahoney, who was arrested for second-degree murder by U.S. Marshals. The family found hope in a video showing Sherrief's arrest, seeing it as a small piece of justice that motivates them to move forward. The incident was particularly distressing as Tate's 9-month-old baby was also present in the car during the shooting, highlighting the potential loss of two lives. (WSLS)
2. The Roanoke City Sheriff's Office is offering educational opportunities to inmates through the R.I.G.N.I.T.E. program. The program provides training and certifications to inmates, which can be utilized in the community once they are released. The initiative aims to assist inmates in reintegrating into society and reducing recidivism rates. Inmates have responded positively to the program, appreciating the opportunities for education and personal growth. The current programs include GED studies, substance abuse prevention training, culinary certifications, and transitioning back into the community. The Sheriff's Office has witnessed improved compliance and receptiveness from inmates participating in the program. (WDBJ)
3. Big Lick Brewing is celebrating 'American Craft Beer Week' with various discounts, events, and of course, beer. The festivities began on May 15 and continue through May 21. On May 19 they will offer $2 off all 4-packs to go, and The Jive Exchange will perform soul jams in the evening. On May 20, Joey's Van, a Tennessee-based band that covers Pop Punk songs, will take the stage. Additionally, there will be $1 off all Side Pours of Smith Mountain Lager. The grand finale on May 21 will be the 'Sunday Funday' with a touch of jazz. All crowlers will be $1 off, and all growlers will be $2 off. The Lenny Marcus Trio will provide jazz vibes at 4 p.m. For more information about Big Lick’s American Beer Week visit their website. (WFXR)
4. Lt. Kenny Sauls, who is in charge of criminal investigations at the Roanoke City Police Department, has expressed his concern about the impact of crimes involving juveniles. In a brief interview with local media, he emphasized the negative consequences such incidents have on families, communities, and schools. In 2023, 22 juveniles have become victims of firearm-related offenses, with seven minors being shot. Additionally, 13 juveniles have committed weapons violations, sometimes accidentally. Despite the numbers being consistent with previous years, Sauls finds them unsettling and admits the department is struggling to address the issue effectively. (WSLS)
5. The Famous Anthony's building in Roanoke's Crystal Spring neighborhood has been demolished by Lionberger Construction to make way for a new hotel. The plans for this boutique hotel received approvals last summer and construction has now begun. Roanoke City's director of economic development, Marc Nelson, believes that the addition of a luxury lodging option will attract more tourists and benefit the local economy. The developer, Rudy Van Thiel, intends to include 21 rooms and a bistro restaurant in the hotel. The construction process is expected to last for at least a year, with the goal of opening the hotel by the end of 2024. (WDBJ)

Today in Roanoke:

• Van Halen & Def Leppard Tribute Bands at Dr. Pepper Park at the Bridges (6 p.m.)
• The Day the Past is Dead and Gone at Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest (6:30 p.m.)
• Julian Taylor with Bill Hudson & Vladimir Espinosa at The Spot on Kirk (8 p.m.)

From my notebook:

• Roanoke Fire EMS Department: "Sullins Johnston is the latest graduate to sign with Roanoke Fire-EMS! Sullins is a graduate of a home school program, and a volunteer for the Troutville Fire Department. We are looking forward to welcoming him and our other new recruits!" (Roanoke Fire EMS Department via Facebook)
• Roanoke Sheriff's Office: "Our agency is committed to staying current on CPR/lifesaving techniques. Last week we offered classes to those needing to recertify in Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Basic First Aid." (Roanoke Sheriff's Office via Facebook)
• Roanoke County Police Department: "This week (May 14 - 20) is National Police Week! National Police Week pays special recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others." (Roanoke County Police Department via Facebook)
• Dr Pepper Park at the Bridges: "🚨🚨 GA TICKETS AVAILABLE!! We were able to add a few GA tickets to this Saturday’s Jo Dee Messina show!! Get your tickets now while you still can at DrPepperPark.com!!" (Dr Pepper Park at the Bridges via Facebook)

Alrighty, you're all caught up for today! I'll see you tomorrow morning!

— Ian

About me: Ian Graham is a novelist, screenwriter, and freelance contributing writer. He is a firm believer in being yourself… unless you can be Batman. Always be Batman. To connect with Ian, you can visit him on Facebook and Instagram. He doesn't bite. Except on full moons.

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Roanoke Patch newsletter? Contact me at roanoke@patch.com