Arts, Leisure and Sports
He hasn’t met his players in person yet due to COVID-19, but ex-Salem High School basketball standout Mark Byington is excited to take on his next challenge as the new men’s basketball head coach at James Madison University. And going a bit stir crazy or suffering from NetFlix overload as you practice social distancing? You can still get outside to walk, run – or play golf.
You may have noticed more live-streamed concerts and more intimate music performances online lately with public venues shut down. Fincastle native Erin Lunsford is normally backed by the Wildfire band but she was about to release a solo album, “The Damsel.” She is now doing weekly performances on Facebook – in part to make some money:
Mill Mountain Zoo/GM photo
Mill Mountain Zoo staff members and the Board of Directors held a ceremonial groundbreaking today for the new black bear exhibit that co-director of operations Derek Kellogg says they hope to have open – with at least one bear on hand – by this summer. A private $300,000 donation has already covered construction costs to remodel what used to be Ruby the Tiger’s lair for the black bears.
Dr Sarah Klemencic (L) and Brant Bernat (center) with the Ironman Triathlon. Catherine Fox photo.
Live in-studio this morning the race director for the Ironman 70.3 Triathlon – Brant Bernat, says things are still a go for the June 7th event expected to draw around 2500 participants to the valley. The full conversation follows:
SPHL ANNOUNCES SUSPENSION OF 2019-20 SEASON
ROANOKE, Va. – The Southern Professional Hockey League announced on Thursday the suspension of the 2019-20 season amid concerns over COVID-19 (coronavirus).
From the league’s press release:
For the safety of our fans, players, team personnel and arena staff, the Southern Professional Hockey League today announced that due to concerns over the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak, it has suspended the 2019-2020 season effective immediately. The SPHL and its member teams will continue to monitor developments over the weekend and provide an update on the 2019-2020 season in the near future.
The Rail Yard Dawgs value the support of their season ticket holders, corporate partners and fans. As more information becomes available the team will provide it to all interested parties.