Sarah Riddell

A red shaved ice dessert in a ruffled red bowl, topped with whipped cream, red syrup, and yellow sprinkles.

Kindness in a Cup

The Shoppes at West Village is now home to a family-friendly coffee and tea house complete with its own gift store.
Purple block letters reading "PAST MEETS PRESENT" on a light gray background.

Past Meets Present

Local museums are transforming the visitor experience with hands-on exhibits, cutting-edge technology and community-focused programming that bring history, science and art to life.
Seay says she “wanted the space to feel cozy and reminiscent of an old library, but still comfortable and approachable.”

Cozy Up at Roanoke’s Newest Literary Escape

This charming hangout invites visitors to settle in with stories, sips and good company.
A smiling woman with long dark wavy hair, wearing a green ruffled top and gold hoop earring against a whitewashed brick wall.

Bread Run Roanoke Rises to the Top

This beloved small business is celebrating its first-ever Best of Roanoke win, taking home the Platinum title for “Favorite Pop-Up Vendor.”
Group of people in hard hats digging gold-ribboned shovels into dirt at a Roanoke County CTE groundbreaking ceremony.

Built to Last

Branch is shaping the future of our region by supporting and aiding in the development of local communities.
A smiling woman with long light-brown hair, wearing a dark top and thin gold necklace, in front of green foliage.

Pure Joy in Pure Barre

Co-lead teacher Melissa Newman brings heart, energy and motivation to every class, making fitness both fun and empowering.
A black-and-white tuxedo cat with yellow-green eyes sprawls on a pink damask Victorian sofa with an ornate carved wooden back.

Purr-fect Pairings

The Toebean Cat Café serves as a homey haven for cats in search of their forever homes and humans in need of a pick-me-up.
Elementary students raise their hands at wooden desks in a bright classroom with large windows.

VBR Life 2025: Education

Learn more about top-notch education throughout Virginia's Blue Ridge, including Botetourt, Franklin and Roanoke counties, Roanoke City and Salem.
Three round layer cakes on pedestal stands: chocolate, yellow with rosette frosting, and a pale cake with sprinkles.

Rising to the Occasion

With a loyal team and community behind them, the future of Evie’s Bistro & Bakery looks as bright and sweet as ever.
Six colorful cocktails in assorted glasses sit in a row on a stone ledge outside a brick building.

A Smokin’ Success

Vinton's Pok-E-Joe's is a 2025 Dining Awards fan favorite.

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