🌱 Five Shootings In Seven Days, No Arrests + Big Lick Comic-Con

Hi all. I'm back in your inbox this warm morning with your new edition of the Roanoke Patch Newsletter. Here's all the local news you need to know right now. In this issue, we'll touch on...

• Hikers rescued on trail; Roanoke County Fire and Rescue warns of extreme heat.
• County school board tensions turn into arrests.
• City leaders learn ways to improve bus accessibility for the disabled with ride-along.

Let's motor!

But first, today's weather: Partly sunny and comfortable. High: 86 Low: 62.

Here are the top stories in Roanoke today:

1. Police responded to a fatal shooting in Roanoke on Sunday, the fifth shooting in the city in just one week. Local activist Rita Joyce, who lost her own son to gun violence in 2004, said the recent spike in shootings shows it's time to take action against gun manufacturers and enact new laws to curb the violence she calls a "pandemic." Joyce works with victims' families through her group FEDUP and believes the whole city must come together to "break the cycle" of shootings, which she says disproportionately affect certain communities. None of the five shootings this past week have resulted in any suspects being identified or arrested. (WSLS)
2. Roanoke County Fire and Rescue responded to a technical rescue mission on Saturday evening to help two dehydrated hikers in distress near the Bottom Creek Gorge area. The hikers were showing signs of heat exhaustion, with one on the verge of passing out, before being assisted off the trail around 7:15 p.m. The department emphasized the importance of staying hydrated and carrying adequate water when hiking in hot weather to prevent emergencies. (WDBJ)
3. Tensions have been building for months at Roanoke County School Board meetings over issues related to transgender students, culminating in chaos and arrests at the July meeting. The controversy began in February when a female student complained about sharing bathrooms with a transgender classmate. Despite hearing from medical professionals and teachers advocating for transgender student protections at subsequent meetings, the school board has remained silent, prompting backlash and recalls. At the July meeting, after warning the crowd over disruptions, chairman Brent Hudson ordered the room cleared when shouts persisted during a briefing on new transgender guidelines. Police arrested two people who refused to leave, with Hudson at one point brandishing his own sheriff's deputy badge. (Roanoke Times)
4. The Big Lick Comicon will return to the Berglund Center in Roanoke on Aug. 5-6. Ticket prices are $17 for Saturday, $16 for Sunday, and $25 for a weekend pass. Hours are 10 a.m.-6p.m. Saturday (opening at 10am for weekend pass holders and 11 a.m. general admission) and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Kids 12 and under are free with paying adult. For more details and updates, visit the event website and Facebook page. The comic book convention promises fun for comic fans of all ages. (WSLS)
5. On the 33rd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Roanoke City leaders including Vice Mayor Joe Cobb rode the bus system to experience it from the perspective of riders with disabilities. Accompanying members of the Bus Riders of Roanoke Advocacy Group, Cobb assessed factors like sidewalks, curb cuts, and shelters at stops. With over 800 stops in the city, Cobb noticed many lack basic amenities beyond a sign. Improving accessibility at high-traffic stops is a priority, as the city has funding to add shelters, benches, and curb cuts in the coming years. The ride highlighted both progress made since the ADA and remaining challenges those with disabilities face taking public transportation. (WFXR)

Our local sponsor has some great stuff to offer:

Are you or a loved one looking to move or downsize during your golden years? Crowning Touch Senior Moving Services is a one-stop-shop for any senior planning a move, and the only company that handles every aspect of downsizing — packing, loading and unloading, storing, and even selling unwanted items in their consignment shop or auction house. People who are moving, downsizing or need cleanouts agree that working with Crowning Touch is well worth it! Visit here to learn more.

Want to see your business featured in this spot? Click here to get started.

Today in Roanoke:

Tuesday, August 1

• Melissa Etheridge at Dr. Pepper Park at the Bridges (6 p.m.)
• Eggs With Legs at Martin’s Downtown Bar and Grill (10 p.m.)

From my notebook:

• Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center of Roanoke: "Ssssoak it all in Sunday! Sunday is the day of rest (but not for us wildlife rehabbers!) but we caught this recovering Eastern Rat Snake taking a spa day. How are y'all relaxing today? Tell us, we'd love to hear your self-care techniques." (Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center of Roanoke via Facebook)
• Roanoke Valley SPCA: "Popeye is one special kitty! Not only is he a one-eyed wonder, he also has a unique swirl on each of his sides. This spicy boy LOVES to play and is very food motivated. Plus, he's got a motor that won't quit!" (Roanoke Valley SPCA via Facebook)
• Solomon's Mission: "The Lord blessed us with a great day — we had power and a breeze (at times!) To Him be the glory! Special thanks to all parents and grandparents, aunts, etc. who brought a student today . To all 195 students who came — You made our day!" (Solomon's Mission via Facebook)
• Roanoke Public Libraries: "There are two chances this week to see incredible folk musician, Angela Easterling, and enjoy a free dinner! Tuesday, Aug. 1 at 5:30 p.m. Raleigh Court Branch Library and Wednesday, Aug. 2 at 5:30 p.m. at Williamson Road Branch Library!" (Roanoke Public Libraries via Facebook)

Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Tuesday off right. See you all tomorrow 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