Rachel Meell
The Christmas season may look a bit different this year because of COVID, but that doesn’t mean that some of the festivities can’t go on as normal. One local business is helping keep some of the magic alive by giving children the chance to have a visit with Santa, but virtually. WFIR’s Rachel Meell has the story:
To sign your child up for a Zoom call with Santa and Mrs. Claus, click here.
The Roanoke Arts Commission has announced a call for outdoor sculptures that will be up for a two-year, temporary exhibition starting in May of 2021. WFIR’s Rachel Meell has the story:
For more information on the sculpture call or how to send in a submission, click here.
The Advancement Foundation’s Innovation Mill is now accepting new applications from business startups in potentially high growth industries who need mentoring. The Innovation Mill is a free-of-charge program that’s funded by GO Virginia Region 2. WFIR’s Rachel Meell has the story:
For more information on the Innovation Mill, click here.
The Science Museum of Western Virginia has announced that enrollment for The LAB – an in-person education program – is extending to include middle school students in sixth and seventh grade. WFIR’s Rachel Meell has the story:
For more information on how to enroll your student in The LAB, click here.
Dickens of a Christmas in Downtown Roanoke will be back this year but reimagined with COVID-19 in mind. Instead of just three Friday nights in December with events, everything will be spread out over 25 days starting on November 24th. WFIR’s Rachel Meell explains what to expect:
For the full 25 day schedule, click here.
Friendship Retirement Community is partnering with the Alzheimer’s Association to help host their Walk to End Alzheimer’s tomorrow morning, but it will look slightly different from past years, including an online kickoff. WFIR’s Rachel Meell has the story:
For more information about the event, click here.
The 4th Annual Run for Donuts 5K and Fun Run is set for Saturday, November 7th with in-person and virtual options. Proceeds will help fund SVH Services’ programs, including the Blue Ridge Autism and Achievement Center. WFIR’s Rachel Meell has the story:
To register for the race, click here.
Many running and 5K fundraisers have had to be rescheduled or cancelled this year because of the pandemic. Some of the events were turned into virtual runs, but the 46th annual Health Focus of Southwest Virginia Salem Distance Run on Saturday will be completely in person. WFIR’s Rachel Meell explains how the event will be different from past years:
To sign up for the race, click here.
COVID-19 has caused people to have to work or learn from home, which has been difficult for many as they have weak internet connections. The Botetourt Board of Supervisors recently highlighted the efforts being made to enhance broadband expansion across the county. Plans were put in place that would provide better connectivity to homes in neglected areas as WFIR’s Rachel Meell reports: