🌱 Interstate 81 Widening Coming + New RCPD Chief Message To Criminals

Hello, everybody! I'm back in your inbox to get you caught up on the most important things happening locally, including news about:

• Roanoke City Police respond to shooting on Hershberger Road.
• Hollins University president receives contract extension.
• Roanoke’s “La Liga” grows in importance beyond area’s Hispanic community.

Let's motor! 🏎

But first, today's weather: Sunshine and some clouds. High: 81 Low: 58.

Here are the top stories in Roanoke today:

1. On Tuesday, shortly before 10:30 p.m., Roanoke City Police responded to reports of gunshots fired near the 1400 block of Hershberger Road. During their investigation, two gunshot victims arrived at Roanoke Memorial Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Roanoke Police do not currently have any suspects in the shooting and the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Roanoke Police at 540-344-8500 or 9-1-1. The shootings mark the continuation of a rise in violence in the Star City, including 26 homicides of which 22 were gun related. (WFXR)
2. As part of ongoing I-81 corridor improvements, VDOT held a public hearing on a proposed widening project between I-581 and the Troutville exit in the Roanoke Valley. The project would add one lane in each direction, replace eight bridges, install sound barriers, and remove an exit ramp. VDOT hopes this will reduce crashes and delays. VDOT spokesperson James Bond said construction disruptions will be minimized by keeping lanes open during commuter hours. The project is scheduled to begin after 2025, and VDOT is accepting public comments through next week. (WSLS)
3. Hollins University President Mary Dana Hinton expressed gratitude and excitement after the Hollins Board of Trustees extended her contract through June 2030. Hinton became the 13th president of Hollins in 2020. She said the extension reflects the university community's collective work and sense of mutual accountability and responsibility. Hinton plans to continue strengthening partnerships in the Roanoke Valley as she makes this part of Virginia her home. She is looking forward to the challenges ahead as Hollins University president. (WDBJ)
4. In an interview, newly appointed Roanoke Police Chief Scott Booth outlined his plans to address the city's record violent crime levels. Booth conveyed a strong message that violent offenders will be held accountable under his leadership. Noting the over 26 homicides so far this year, Booth vowed to bring those numbers down through focused efforts on high-crime areas and violent offenders. He emphasized that each victim represents a tragic loss of life that impacts families and communities. Booth stated that collaborative efforts involving accountability, trust, empowered partnerships, and unrelenting focus on violent crime will help reduce Roanoke's homicide rate and make the city safer. (WSLS)
5. La Liga Union de Futbol Roanoke, a local soccer league, has grown in importance for Roanoke's Hispanic community and helped unite diverse cultures. What started as an 8-team league in 2016 has expanded to 14 teams named after famous international clubs. Players cite the high level of competition and opportunity to meet people from different countries. While many play for fun, some have gone on to play at higher levels, like Danny Pereira from Northside who now plays in Major League Soccer. Beyond providing community and competition, the league is viewed as vital for developing the next generation of local soccer talent. With participation from countries across the world, it brings people together through a shared love of the sport. (WFXR)

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Today in Roanoke:

Thursday, September 21

• 2023 Preserve Luncheon at the City Market Building’s Charter Hall (11:30 a.m.)
• Not Your Average Happy Hour & Q3 Social at Century Plaza (5 p.m.)
• Fall for Ursula Open Mic Night at Ursula’s Cafe (6 p.m.)
• Karaoke at 2 Chill Restaurant (7 p.m.)

From my notebook:

• Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center of Roanoke: "Sharing is caring! These two young cedar waxwings are not relatives and came in for different reasons from two different locations. But still, the instinct to care for others is innate." (Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center of Roanoke via Facebook)
• Roanoke County Public Schools: "We are getting ready for the 2023 College Fair at The Salem Civic Center! The event starts at 6 p.m. Meet representatives from more than 70 colleges, universities and military service branches. There is no cost to attend." (Roanoke County Public Schools via Facebook)
• Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge: "Enjoy a day of family fun near Roanoke at the Jeter Farm Fall Festival, beginning Sept. 30! Pick pumpkins, explore the corn maze, visit with farm animals, bounce on the jump pad, and enjoy a hayride!" (Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge via Facebook)
• The Rescue Mission of Roanoke: "Every donation matters, especially when it's topped with cheese! Thank you to this amazing family who bought enough pizza for every single one of our guests! What a delicious and thoughtful donation! 😀🙌🍕🍕🍕" (The Rescue Mission of Roanoke via Facebook)

That's it for today! I'll be back in your inbox tomorrow with your next 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