🌱 Jefferson Center Needs Repairs + 'Art At Chris's' Partnership

Hey, neighbors! I'm back in your inbox to get you caught up on the most important things happening in town. Today we'll cover these stories and more:

• Leadership program to empower professionals in Roanoke Valley.
• Jared Stout Band to perform at historic Grandin Theatre in October.
• Roanoke Police in search of suspect in Sunday shooting.

Let's motor! 🛺

But first, today's weather: Partly sunny and beautiful. High: 79 Low: 59.

Here are the top stories in Roanoke today:

1. Southwest Virginia's own alt-country powerhouse The Jared Stout Band, fresh off their second studio album "Heavy From the Sky," is set to perform at Roanoke's historic Grandin Theatre on Oct. 4. Quickly establishing themselves as artists on the rise after being named the 2022 Floyd Fest - On the Rise Runner Up, the band has garnered attention across Virginia and beyond for their original songs, versatile sound, and commanding stage presence. From busking tours to opening for major acts, The Jared Stout Band continues to make waves in the music industry. Their Grandin Theatre show on Oct. 4 features opening act Corey Hunley, doors open at 6 p.m., and general admission tickets are $20. (WSLS)
2. The Jefferson Center Foundation in Roanoke urgently needs $6 million in repairs and upgrades to continue operating its century-old performing arts facility, which hosts over 200 events annually. The nonprofit asked the city for financial assistance, presenting a 6-year plan requesting $250,000 immediately for critical fire and HVAC issues, followed by $1 million annually for other major repairs. While recognizing the needs, the city council faces budget constraints and will discuss funding options further at an upcoming budget meeting. The foundation remains open to reimagining the building's usage to maximize its value. Its goal for now was starting the conversation on saving the culturally vital building. (Cardinal News)
3. The Salem-Roanoke County Chamber of Commerce is bringing the globally recognized EPIC leadership training program to the Roanoke Valley for the first time to encourage local professionals to enhance their skills and advance their careers. Applications are open until Oct. 5 for the program kicking off Nov. 8. EPIC provides an opportunity for regional leaders to take their professional development to the next level through this Chamber-sponsored leadership course. More details and applications are available through the Chamber's website. (WDBJ)
4. Chris's Coffee & Custard, founded by Beth Woodrum to create job opportunities for those with special needs like her son Chris, is currently displaying artwork by William Byrd High School art teacher Allyson Goin as part of their new "Art at Chris's" show partnership that benefits both local artists and the shop's employees. Goin's wood burnings, acrylic paintings, and dot paintings are on display through October, with 70 percent of sales going to the artist and 30 percent donated to the shop. The art show opportunity allows artists like Goin to showcase and sell their work while supporting Chris's mission of empowering individuals with disabilities through meaningful employment and vocational skills training. (Vinton Messenger)
5. Roanoke Police are searching for 25-year-old Edward L. Denoyer, who has an active warrant for second degree murder following a shooting on Sunday evening that left two dead and one hospitalized. Police advise the public not to approach Denoyer as he is considered armed and dangerous, and instead call 911 if his whereabouts are known. The shooting occurred on Melrose Avenue after an argument inside a home, claiming the lives of a woman found outside and a man in a parked car. A third victim with non-life-threatening injuries was located at 10th Street and Salem Avenue SW. Anyone who sees Denoyer or knows where he may be is urged to contact police immediately. (WDBJ)

Are you a real estate agent in Roanoke struggling to get leads in the current housing market? It's tough out there, but there is a way to stand out from the crowd and attract new clients. Our exclusive sponsorship in the Roanoke newsletter can help you do just that. Click here to learn more and discover how you can take your business to the next level today.

Today in Roanoke:

Wednesday, September 20

• 16th Annual Star B-Q featuring Dalton Dover at the Salem Farmers Market (5:30 p.m.)
• Repertoire presented by Southwest Virginia Ballet at the Grandin Theatre (7 p.m.)
• Christian Q and The Groove at Martin’s Downtown Bar and Grill (9:30 p.m.)

From my notebook:

• Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center of Roanoke: "It took a while for them to get going, but these spunky little song sparrows made their way home! Song sparrows are the most common sparrow in Virginia with their cheery song being a classic sound of spring and summer." (Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center of Roanoke via Facebook)
• Roanoke Valley SPCA: "Thank you to everyone who adopted pets last week, Sept. 11-16! Happy Tails to Nash, Noel, Rosalia, Gerald, Sookie, Lady, Princess, Samantha, Hank Williams Jr., Alvie, Buddy, Ukulele, Maserati, Kathy, Walkie, Miller, Mick, and Hope who all went home! Pictured are a few of the happy families!" (Roanoke Valley SPCA via Facebook)
• Roanoke Outside: "Let your voice be heard! VDOT will be hosting community meetings this week (Sept. 20 & Sept. 21) to discuss the proposed 26-mile Craig Botetourt Scenic Trail. Your voice matters, so please take advantage of these opportunities. More information at the link!" (Roanoke Outside via Facebook)
• Roanoke Public Libraries: "Did someone say free family photos AND free dinner 👀 Join us at your Belmont Branch Library one week from today, Sept. 25, at 6 p.m. as we celebrate families; we'll have dinner, crafts, and free family photos!" (Roanoke Public Libraries via Facebook)

That's it for today. 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