🌱 Evans Spring Urban Renewal Fears + Star City Motor Madness

Hi all! It's time for the Tuesday edition of the Roanoke Patch Newsletter, filled with all the things you need to know about what's happening in town. Today we have these stories and more...

• Gainsboro celebrates Juneteenth.
• Some residents question county registrar contract renewal.
• Golden Cactus Pub Run.

Let's motor!

But first, today's weather: A couple of morning showers. High: 71 Low: 66.

Here are the top stories today in Roanoke:

1. Roanoke city officials and consultants continue work on a master plan for Evans Spring, the largest undeveloped land in the city. However, residents in surrounding neighborhoods fear a repeat of the displacement experienced during previous urban renewal projects. Trust between the government and the African American community is a significant concern, and residents worry about the impact of development on their communities. The city's 2040 Comprehensive Plan acknowledges the need to regain trust and build a positive relationship with the affected communities. The residents express concerns about traffic congestion, environmental impact, and potential harm to wildlife. The city's previous plans for the area have been met with opposition, and community members continue to oppose inappropriate development of Evans Spring. (Subscription: Roanoke Times)
2. Star City Motor Madness is hosting its 22nd 'Cruise-in Car Show,' offering a range of activities for car enthusiasts and those interested in antique automobiles. The event will kick off on June 23 with a 'Cruise-In' where participants can showcase their trucks, motorcycles, automobiles, and classics on Roanoke's main drag. This stretch of road, from Hershberger Road to Orange Avenue, will be open to any "classic" or "special interest" car that evokes nostalgia or fulfills a fantasy. The event promises a variety of automobiles cruising through Williamson Road, providing enjoyment for Roanoke residents along the way. The 'Cruise-In' will include food, entertainment, and more. Star City Motor Madness aims to showcase the passion for automobiles in Roanoke while supporting the Virginia Museum of Transportation and other nonprofit organizations. (WFXR)
3. The First Baptist Church in Gainsboro hosted the 1st Freedom March and prayers, an event dedicated to commemorating the struggle for freedom across the United States. The march began with a prayer in front of the church and spanned a 2.5-mile route through town. The march was inspired by Opal Lee, an activist who attended the Juneteenth Family Reunion the previous year. Pastor Sean Burch of Spirit of Unity Baptist Church emphasized the importance of the march in educating people about the history of Juneteenth, stating that understanding the past is essential for learning from mistakes. After completing the march, the participants proceeded happily to the 2023 Juneteenth Family Reunion. (WDBJ)
4. The Roanoke County registrar's contract, which pays $109,000 per year, has been quietly extended, raising questions among some residents. Roanoke County has been leaning towards the Republican party in recent years, with only one Democrat officeholder remaining. One aspect that has surprised some residents is that the registrar, Anna Cloeter, who oversees voting office and procedures, is the daughter of Susan Cloeter, the former chairwoman of the Roanoke County Democrat Committee. While it is not illegal for a registrar to be related to a partisan political figure, the connection has raised eyebrows in the heavily Republican county. (Roanoke Star)

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Today in Roanoke:

Tuesday, June 20

• Golden Cactus Pub Run starting at Golden Cactus Brewing (6 p.m.)

From my notebook:

• Roanoke Valley SPCA: "Bandit is inspecting his paperwork to make sure it's all in order so that he can get adopted soon! Cats can stretch their bodies to incredible lengths partly because their shoulder blade isn't attached to the rest of their body by bone!" (Roanoke Valley SPCA via Facebook)
• Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge: "Roaring Run is a beloved trail in Virginia's Blue Ridge, known for being an easy, family-friendly, and incredibly scenic hike with a river running along the length of the trail and a variety of waterfalls to enjoy at regular intervals." (Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge via Facebook)
• Roanoke Valley SPCA: "Brodie and Rocket enjoyed some time outside together today. These boys could use a good grooming, but they're as sweet as can be! We love seeing their happy smiles, but we're sure they'll smile even more when they get adopted!" (Roanoke Valley SPCA via Facebook)
• Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center of Roanoke: "You know what they say about when your eyes are bigger than your stomach... Happy Sunday y'all!" (Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center of Roanoke via Facebook)

You're officially in the loop for today. See you all tomorrow morning for 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