what's inside Contents november/december 2023 | Vol. L | Number 11/12 AFTER 74 The 2024 Dining Awards AFTER PAGE 74. You shared your top picks for Best New Restaurant, Staff, menu items and more - now see your winners! compiled by Sarah Riddell and Jeff Wood Fourth-Quarter Finances 32. We share ways to prepare for your yearend tax preparation and strategy planning. by Michael Shelton Gauntlet Throwdown 36. Meet a few winners championing their local businesses thanks to the Advancement Foundation. by Anthony Giorgetti in every issue 10 EDITOR'S LETTER 12 STRANGE DAYS OF ROANOKE 14 DO YOU KNOW...? 16 LOCAL LOOK 17 IN THE NOKE 18 SOUTHERN SPOONFUL 22 THE GIST 26 EVENTS 74 THEN & NOW Foodie Gift Guide 45. Our annual foodie gift guide uncovers hidden gems that will delight your recipients. by Layla Khoury-Hanold A Full Serving of Good Taste 48. Discover organic juices, smoothies and wellness bowls at Fruits & Roots in downtown Roanoke. by Layla Khoury-Hanold Seeds of Success 51. Meet local farmers who are providing the region's terrifi c menu items. by Jenny K. Boone Raise Your Glass 54. These tips for your home bar setup are ideal for year-round entertaining. by Rory Rhodes From Your Heart to Theirs 61. Unlock the art of heartfelt gifting this holiday season by creating and sharing homemade gifts that show you care. by Laura Wade Little Chefs, Big Dreams 64. Discover the joy of family bonding with essential tips for cooking with your kids and making cherished memories in the kitchen. by Stephanie Fallon From Grapes to Glory 68. Uncork the secrets of wine storage to build the ultimate personal collection. by Stephanie Fallon special sections: FINANCIAL ADVISORS PAGE 40. These local advisors are ready to answer your fi nancial questions and concerns. HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE PAGE 56. Shop local this year with these businesses who have the perfect gifts for everyone on your holiday shopping list. 18 on the cover Who doesn't love a great sandwich? We recommend this Italian Sub from Treehouse Tavern! Image by John Park. find us online Online Extras Don't miss out on timely news, new businesses, events and more on our website. Learn more at TheRoanoker.com. Elevating Your Experience We're bringing our latest issues to your screens thanks to our podcast and videos! Be sure to check out From Print to Podcast on your favorite audio apps and see Becky Ellis bring her Southern Spoonful recipes to life on our YouTube channel - or see it all at TheRoanoker.com! 4 november/december 2023 TheRoanoker.com PAGE 74: JOHN PARK / PAGE 18: ASHLEY CUOCOhttp://www.TheRoanoker.com http://www.TheRoanoker.com http://www.TheRoanoker.com