Gene Marrano

photo by Ian Price

A protest today against a rate increase request from Roanoke Gas Company of almost 11 percent. At the Roanoke City main library those opposing the hike urged the State Corporation Commission to reject that proposal. Preserve Salem and several other organizers say Roanoke Gas Company already hiked rates without permission 10.6 percent in January, to cover investment costs. Before an SCC hearing in August those who oppose – or support – the rate increase can offer their opinion online. One of the speakers was Roanoke attorney John Fishwick, who tied the rate increase request to RGC’s 46 million dollar investment in the Mountain Valley Pipeline project:

 

(from Carilion Clinic) today we learned the tragic news that Dr. Gary Swank, interventional cardiologist, medical director of Carilion Clinic’s Cardiac Catheterization Lab and an associate professor of internal medicine at the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, was found murdered, along with his local tour guide, in Belize yesterday. We are heartbroken at his loss. Dr. Swank was a well-respected and well-loved colleague who, each and every day, embodied the values that we hold dear. His absence leaves a void in our team and in our community. Our thoughts, prayers and attention are now focused on helping his family navigate this difficult time.

Roanoke County supervisors and staffers take a tour – G Marrano photo

The former All-State Building in southwest Roanoke County on Electric Road held its formal Grand Reopening this morning. Metis Plaza is owned by Metis Holdings, which offers insurance and risk management services. They occupy about 63,000 square feet in the building, with 5 other tenants also leasing space. About 50,000 square feet is still available for lease in the 180,000 square foot facility, which All-State opened in 1970. On site is a fitness studio open to the public and a health-food cafe that is available to all tenants. Metis spent around nine million dollars to purchase and renovate the hilltop building. Jill Loope is director of economic development for Roanoke County: