🌱 Starbucks Purchases Land In Hollins + Preston Park Design Update

Hey, Roanokers! Ian here with your Friday edition of the Roanoke Patch Newsletter, filled with all the things you need to know about what's going on locally. Including updates on:

• Barrel Chest Wine and Beer invites artists to submit designs for merchandise.
• DCJS grants to help Roanoke combat gun violence.
• The Party in Elmwood Park is in full swing.

Let's motor!

But first, today's weather: A t-storm around in the p.m. High: 84 Low: 58.

Here are the top stories in Roanoke today:

1. Commercial real estate brokers Cushman & Wakefield-Thalhimer have revealed that InSite Real Estate Investment Properties recently purchased a property on Friendship Lane in Roanoke County for $400,000. The intention behind the purchase is to build a Starbucks coffee shop on the site, which is located at the corner of Plantation Road and conveniently situated near Exit 146 of Interstate 81 where it will be surrounded by various hotels and amenities catering to travelers. No word yet on when construction will begin or a possible opening date. (Subscription: Roanoke Times)
2. Barrel Chest Wine and Beer is inviting artists of all ages to submit their designs for a chance to be featured on the next batch of merchandise. The initiative aims to support and collaborate with local artists, including those who may be undiscovered or hesitant to showcase their work. The general manager, Stasha Giffin, mentioned that they are open to various artistic styles, including block art, folk art, bright and vibrant disco pop, or any creative ideas. The chosen artist will receive a $100 gift card and will have the opportunity to select a merchandise item once it becomes available. The deadline for design submissions is July 1, and artists can either use the art supplies provided at the location or submit designs they have created at home. Submissions should be sent to StashaGiffin@gmail.com, and it is hoped that the selected design will be ready for merchandise production by fall. (WDBJ)
3. Roanoke City Public Schools are in the process of constructing a new Preston Park Elementary School to address the current school's failure to meet zoning requirements. The new school aims to prioritize safety and improve the learning environment. Designers are incorporating crime prevention through environmental design principles by relocating the school away from the road to reduce distractions. The front entrance will be used for parking to enhance natural surveillance, providing a clear line of sight for authorities, staff, and visitors to observe their surroundings. This approach is expected to deter safety hazards and suspicious activities while promoting collective responsibility and a proactive safety approach. The public will have an opportunity to provide feedback on the rezoning during public comment sessions on July 10 and 17. (WSLS)
4. Roanoke has received support from state and federal sources for its efforts to prevent gun violence. The Department of Criminal Justice Services in Virginia has established two funds: the Firearm Violence Intervention and Prevention Fund (FVIPF) and the Operation Ceasefire Grant Fund. Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital will receive around $605,000 to implement its Violent Injury Recovery and Support Program. In addition, the state attorney general's office received $2.6 million through the Operation Ceasefire Grant Fund to hire special prosecutors for "gun- and gang-related" cases in 12 Virginia cities, including Roanoke. One special prosecutor has been assigned to Roanoke, handling over 15 pending cases and ongoing investigations, most of which are federal. (Subscription: Roanoke Times)
5. The Delta Dental Party in Elmwood is currently being held and features live music performances that attract dozens of people from the community. One of the recent concerts featured the band "Too Much Sylvia." Even before the gates open at 5:30 p.m., many people gather with their lawn chairs, enjoying each other's company. The event holds special meaning for the residents as it fosters a sense of community and camaraderie. In addition to the social aspects, the concert series features renowned bands like "The Entertainers" and "Band of Oz," known for their beach music. Line dancing is also a popular activity among the attendees. The next concert on June 22 will showcase "Band of Oz," and more information can be found on Downtown Roanoke Inc.'s website. (WDBJ)

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Today in Roanoke:

Friday, June 16

• Badfish with the Red Not Chili Peppers at Dr Pepper Park (6 p.m.)
• Salem Red Sox vs. Delmarva Shorebirds at Salem Memorial Ballpark (7 p.m.)
• Stimulator Jones with Graybles, Dylan Dent, & Eva Cassel at The Spot on Kirk (8 p.m.)
• Ripejive at Martin’s Downtown Bar and Grill (10 p.m.)

From my notebook:

• Roanoke City Public Schools: "At the June 13 school board meeting, the school board approved the 2023-24 school year start and dismissal times. The schedule adjusts school start/end times by just 15 minutes." (Roanoke City Public Schools via Facebook)
• Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center of Roanoke: "Birds of a feather flock together! Well, these two baby birds may not be the same species, but they have been raised alongside each other as adoptive siblings due to having a similar diet." (Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center of Roanoke via Facebook)
• City of Roanoke Government: "Congratulations to GRTC Valley Metro - Roanoke on the grand opening of the Third Street Station! Check out the beautiful new transit station and see some of the new amenities being offered." (City of Roanoke, Virginia - Government via Facebook)
• Roanoke Valley SPCA: "Don't forget to register for our Open House this Saturday! You'll get a guided behind the scenes tour of our shelter and get to meet some of the adorable pets looking for new homes. Registration is free and we ask that you wear closed-toe shoes." (Roanoke Valley SPCA via Facebook)

Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Friday off right! See you all tomorrow for 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