A local university recently received a $10 million boost for one of its scholarship programs, with the goal of expanding access to education in Southwest Virginia. That story from WFIR’s Conner Arthur:

The new owner of Beale’s brewery says it will serve as a community space that people will always have a connection too. More from WFIR’s Clark Palmer:

In the wake of the indictment of a former FBI director on charges of allegedly making threats against President Trump, Radford University’s political science chair is weighing in. More from WFIR’s Conner Arthur:

WFIR's Ian Price talks with Governor Abigail Spanberger and organizers from the Southwest Virginia Data Center Transparency Alliance about Google's planned data center campus in Botetourt County, Virginia. Spanberger explains why she opposes walking back existing data center tax agreements while backing a debate on future exemptions. Roanoke-area residents Scott Yates and Ben Verschoor respond with concerns over water use, power demand, transparency and the "social contract" between local governments and constituents. Hear the full conversation on Virginia data centers, tax breaks and what's at stake for Roanoke and Botetourt County.

In late 2021, a specialty plate program benefiting the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation was announced. Since then, Virginia’s drivers have raised more than $100,000 to fund projects all along the Parkway.

Market Square will play host to a barn-full of miniature animals this weekend. WFIR's Emma Thomas has details

Governor Abigail Spanberger now has to decide whether to sign or veto Virginia’s marijuana sales bill after lawmakers rejected her amendments last week. WFIR’s Ian Price has the latest.

Radford University Political Science Chair Chapman Rackaway analyzes Virginia's narrow approval of a controversial redistricting referendum that creates a 10-to-1 Democratic congressional map. Rackaway explains why three pending lawsuits could override the voter-approved measure, breaks down the regional voting patterns between urban and rural Virginia, and discusses what the close margin means for the 2026 midterm elections. Listen to the complete interview for expert insights on gerrymandering, procedural challenges, and whether Republicans can still win competitive districts under the new map.

On this Friday, April 10, 2026 edition of WFIR News Express, a Bedford County teacher is under arrest following allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a juvenile, facing multiple charges involving communication with a minor and child pornography.

We also report on the upcoming redistricting referendum, where a new poll shows a narrow majority of Virginians supporting changes to congressional maps, though political analysts warn the outcome is far from certain as the April 21 vote approaches.

As housing costs rise, advocates are urging renters to speak out on hidden fees that can significantly increase monthly expenses, with a public comment period now open on a proposed federal rule.

In Washington, a Northern Virginia congressman is calling for limits on presidential war powers amid tensions involving Iran, while locally, Goodwill’s Excel Center in Roanoke is showing early progress helping adult learners earn high school diplomas.

Plus, Virginia Tech President Tim Sands announces plans to step down, a Salem movie theater closes its doors, and Botetourt County schools seek a major funding increase to address aging facilities and operational needs.

That’s the latest from WFIR News Express — follow the feed so you don’t miss the next update.

Today’s WFIR News Express covers an armed robbery arrest in Roanoke and a Georgia man charged in a Montgomery County child death investigation. We also report on Virginia leaders reacting to the Iran conflict, former Governor Glenn Youngkin hinting at a future political run, and funding to preserve a historic Roanoke landmark. Plus updates on road closures in Botetourt County, community safety initiatives, and local events across the region. Get fast, reliable local news from Roanoke and across Virginia.