🌱 'Days Of Action' On Despite Rain + Local Indian Restaurant On TV

Hello and happy Friday fellow Roanokers! It's time for the Roanoke Patch Newsletter — back in your inbox with the details on what's happening in town. Including news on:

• Two men shot at Plantation Road gas station.
• Another Evans Spring update, this time from hired consultants.
• Roanoke County sees success in hiring SROs.

Let's motor!

But first, today's weather: A shower and t-storm; warmer. High: 77 Low: 65.

Here are the top stories today in Roanoke:

1. Two men were injured in a shooting at a gas station in Northeast Roanoke. The incident occurred shortly after the police announced a decrease in violent crime in the city. Police responded to gunshots at a gas station on Plantation Road Northeast and found damage but no victims or suspects at the scene. However, later on, two men arrived at local hospitals with non-life-threatening gunshot wounds. Police Chief Sam Roman encouraged citizens to use the department's online reporting system for minor offenses to help save time and resources. The police are urging anyone with information about the shooting to contact them. (WSLS)
2. Despite the rainy weather forecast, the United Way of Roanoke Valley is determined to proceed with its Days of Action: Community-Wide Service Projects. This annual event brings together volunteers from across the valley to engage in collective action. The organization aims to put their mission into practice by enhancing education, financial stability, and health to improve the overall quality of life. Despite the rain, the United Way of Roanoke Valley remains undeterred, with Vice President of Community Impact Cheryl Mosley expressing their commitment to assisting others. The event spans multiple days, with volunteers dedicating their time and effort to different locations. They have already volunteered in Craig County and are scheduled to volunteer in Roanoke on Thursday. (WDBJ)
3. Consultants recently presented to Roanoke City Council an update on the plan to potentially develop Evans Spring, a 150-acre woodland area near Valley View Mall, into a smaller, community-oriented neighborhood with single-family homes, shops, and green spaces. The consultants, hired in December to create a master plan for the land, provided an update outlining the opportunities and challenges involved. The development has faced strong opposition from nearby residents in the past, but the private property owners, the city, and Roanoke's Economic Development Authority collaborated to fund the master plan. The plan is expected to be completed in the fall. (WFIR)
4. A new four-part PBS food and travel series called "Spice Road" focuses on South Asian cuisine. Oscar-nominated filmmaker Sami Khan and Indian American actor/writer Rupak Ginn embark on a journey across the United States to meet hardworking restaurateurs who serve dishes that honor their South Asian roots. In the second episode, Ginn visits Taaza Indian Cuisine in Roanoke. He helps the owners prepare Gobi Manchurian, a cauliflower Indo-Chinese appetizer, and samples the restaurant's take on traditional Indian street foods. Ginn also discusses the challenges the owners faced while pursuing their dream of operating a successful Indian restaurant. The episode aims to inspire viewers to persevere and strive for their goals. Ginn hopes that after watching the series, people will realize the beauty that comes from embracing others, especially those who are different. (The Roanoker)
5. The Roanoke County Police Department and Sheriff's Office have had school resource officers (SROs) in Roanoke County Public Schools for about 15 years. Initially starting with high schools and middle schools, they later expanded to include elementary schools. In recent years, both departments received funding to increase the number of SROs in the elementary schools. Currently, there are two full-time SRO deputies and five part-time deputies serving in the elementary schools, with plans to hire three more. The departments are actively seeking experienced officers who can meet the requirements for the position. One of the key requirements is the ability to connect with students and staff on a daily basis, emphasizing that the SROs are there to help and serve the community. (WDBJ)

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Today in Roanoke:

Friday, June 23

• Salem after Five featuring music from Domino at the Salem Farmers Market (5 p.m.)
• TJ Ellis at Starr Hill Pilot Brewery & Side Stage (6 p.m.)
• Lauren Morrow at The Spot on Kirk (8 p.m.)
• Mad Iguanas at Martin’s Downtown Bar and Grill (10 p.m.)

From my notebook:

• Dr Pepper Park at the Bridges: "We are so excited to announce that Karlee Raye will also be opening for Megan Moroney Music! 😍 That means you'll have a full night of music with Karlee Raye, Logan Crosby Music, and Megan Moroney!" (Dr Pepper Park at the Bridges via Facebook)
• Roanoke City Public Schools: "If you happened to be downtown this morning, you may have noticed that RCPS' future Central Office, the William B. Robertson Administration Building, is starting to look a little different. Stay tuned next week as we make a special announcement!" (Roanoke City Public Schools via Facebook)
• Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge: "The countdown is on! 🎉Funnel cakes, fun rides, and play-to-win prizes are just around the corner at the Salem Fair, coming to Salem, Virginia June 28-July 9! 🥳We recommend including this yearly event into your next metro mountain adventure!" (Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge via Facebook)
• Roanoke Outside: "Concerts By Canoe is back this weekend at Twin Ridge Recreation Area with @franklincountyparksandrec! Full schedule in profile link!" (Roanoke Outside via Instagram)

You're officially in the loop for today. I'll be in your inbox tomorrow with another update!

— 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