Virginia Foundation for Community College Education Honors Philanthropists at 20th Annual Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy Luncheon

Diane and William Elliot and Davis H. Elliot Company, Inc. of Roanoke, Va., have received the 20th Annual Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy. Diane and William Elliot and Davis H. Elliot Company, Inc. of Roanoke, Va., have received the 20th Annual Chancellor’s Award for Leadership in Philanthropy. They were nominated by Virginia Western Community College.   Hosted by the […]

Built to Last with Justin vanBlaricom

Season 4 / Episode #1: Built to Last with Justin vanBlaricom

Our latest episode goes on site to Noke Van Co, where we sit down with the vanBlaricoms to discuss Justin’s platinum Best of Roanoke win, resilience after tragedy, and how community support can make all the difference. 

Cozy Corners and Cat Therapy at Toebean Cat Cafe

With adoptable cats, cozy spaces, and a mission rooted in rescue, Toebean Cat Cafe has grown into a Roanoke favorite, earning recognition across six Best of Roanoke reader poll categories.  Best New Company of the Year — Platinum  Best Thing to Happen in Roanoke, 2025 — Gold  Best Place to Work — Gold  Best Coworking Space — Silver  Hidden Gem — […]

Facing the Storm: Justin vanBlaricom and the Power of Showing Up

Star of the Star City

The Noke Van Co co-owner and Platinum “Star of the Star City” winner reflects on resilience, rebuilding, and the Roanoke community that helped carry them forward  Justin vanBlaricom  Platinum Winner, Male “Star of the Star City” | Best of Roanoke 2026   Don’t miss our special podcast episode with Justin and Keri vanBlaricom on site at their Noke Van Co space! We talk […]

2027 Best Of Central + Southwest Virginia Weddings

2027 Best Of Central + Southwest Virginia Weddings

We are thrilled to launch our annual Best Of Central + Southwest Virginia Weddings! Our region has become an elite wedding scene filled with incredible venues, vendors, designers and so much more. However, it can be overwhelming for engaged couples to even know where to begin. The Best Of Central + Southwest Virginia Weddings is […]

Best-in-Class ‘Cue

Mama Jean’s Barbecue’s slow-smoked meats and soulful sides make it a dining destination.

Mama Jean’s Barbecue slings slow-smoked meats, soulful sides, and sought-after specials.

Recreating a Dreamy Blue Kitchen

Recreating a Dreamy Blue Kitchen

Inspired by a beloved former home, this Old Southwest renovation layers sky-blue cabinetry, warm metallic accents, and tailored updates into a kitchen that feels timeless yet entirely personal.

A Lost Gem

Lakeside Amusement Park was built in 1920 on Mason's Creek., Courtesy of Roanoke Public Libraries.

Lakeside Amusement Park punctuated Roanoke Valley summers for more than 60 years. Written by Clayton Trutor / Photo above: Lakeside Amusement Park was built in 1920 on Mason’s Creek., Courtesy of Roanoke Public Libraries. For more than 60 years, Lakeside Amusement Park was the Roanoke Valley’s destination for summer fun.  Located near Mason’s Creek at […]