Here is the latest new from around the Roanoke Valley and Commonwealth of Virginia.

Here is the latest news from around the Roanoke Valley and Commonwealth of Virginia.

WFIR’s Ian Price goes On The Record with Roanoke Rambler reporter Jeff Sturgeon to unpack this week’s top stories. Del. Sam Rasoul is “testing the waters” for a run for Congress — a move that could eventually put him in a Democratic primary with author Beth Macy, who told The Rambler she welcomes the challenge and wants “leaders, not just career politicians.”

Jeff also explains why Reuben Lawson’s name has disappeared from the recently renamed federal courthouse in downtown Roanoke, after contractors damaged the stone backdrop while trying to replace the lettering.

The segment wraps with an update on Roanoke’s long-running zoning debate — how a promised compromise on housing rules has been delayed, why it may now overlap with the 2026 City Council race, and what it all means for efforts to expand housing options and affordability in the city.

On this Wednesday, December 10, 2025, WFIR News Express delivers the top stories shaping southwest Virginia — from major criminal cases to statewide political shifts and local economic updates.

Here’s what’s in today’s episode:

• A Virginia State Trooper injured in Carroll County after a vehicle struck his cruiser at a crash scene.
• A Troutville youth pastor pleads guilty to attempted child sex crimes following an FBI investigation.
• A Campbell County man sentenced for using online communications to solicit a child under 15.
• Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger, in a POLITICO-moderated interview, says her double-digit win shows voters expect action on affordability — and she weighs in on how potential redistricting should unfold.
• Former Congressman Tom Perriello announces a bid to reclaim his old 5th District seat as Democrats eye map changes.
• A gas leak at a Campbell County apartment complex sends several residents for treatment before crews identify improperly stored fuel as the source.
• NAACP vs. Shenandoah County Schools — a federal trial begins over whether reinstating Confederate school names violates students’ rights.
• Virginia farmers react after President Trump announces $12 billion in one-time federal farm aid.
• Fork in the Market prepares to reopen months after a fire shut down the downtown Roanoke restaurant.
• Holiday consumer sentiment rises in Virginia, with new Roanoke College data showing confidence outpacing the national average.
• Center in the Square turns 42, with major upgrades underway for the Pinball Museum, atrium, and Starcade.

🎧 A clean, fast, trustworthy news rundown — crafted for new listeners discovering the WFIR News Express.

Here is the latest news from around the Roanoke valley and Commonwealth of Virginia.

Here is the latest news from around the Roanoke Valley and Commonwealth of Virginia.

Here is the latest news from around the Roanoke Valley and Commonwealth of Virginia.

Here is the latest news from around the Roanoke Valley and Commonwealth of Virginia.

WFIR’s Ian Price goes On The Record with Roanoke Rambler reporter Jeff Sturgeon to break down this week’s top local stories. City Council approved its annual legislative wish list — but not without pushback, including a lone vote against recommending a school-related tax increase and a surprising lack of action on the controversial casino proposal.

Jeff also updates us on the planned reopening of a Franklin Road strip club, which appears to have the approvals it needs after questions about zoning, ownership, and whether the previous use was ever officially abandoned.

The conversation closes with highlights from the Rambler’s monthly food column, including a new Fifth Street specialty shop, a Vinton café opening, a Bonsack coffee spot, and a first look at Mama Jean’s new Brandon Avenue location.

Read the full stories — free with an email subscription — at RoanokeRambler.com.

On this Wednesday, December 3, 2025, WFIR News Express brings you the day’s top stories across the Roanoke Valley and Southwest Virginia:

• Six people died on Virginia roads over Thanksgiving weekend, as State Police released new enforcement stats showing hundreds of seatbelt violations, more than 4,200 speeding citations, and 63 DUI arrests.
• A Roanoke pastor urges City Council to reject a proposed casino at the Berglund Center, warning it could harm public safety, neighborhood trust, and the city’s long-term well-being.
• A bomb threat at Liberty University prompted a major law enforcement response last night, with streets closed and students diverted as police investigated a suspicious item.
• New bill filed for the 2026 General Assembly session targets ICE raids in Virginia, banning federal agents from covering their faces during enforcement and allowing civil penalties for violations.
• The Life Ring Foundation donates $1.25 million to Carilion Children’s, supporting cancer and blood-disorder care—with more fundraising planned.
• State Sen. Bryce Reeves takes aim at Sen. Mark Warner’s reelection bid, arguing Warner has abandoned earlier promises and no longer represents Virginia values.
• The Trump administration plans to end IRS Direct File, a move advocates say could cost Virginians up to $500 million in lost savings each year.
• K&W Cafeteria closes all locations—including Roanoke—after 88 years, leaving longtime customers stunned.
• Roanoke County considers selling land in the Vinton Business Park to a developer proposing new affordable housing.
• Multiple dead vultures found in Rocky Mount, prompting investigation by state wildlife and health officials and an advisory to avoid nearby waterways.

🎧 Your fast, reliable daily news update for the Roanoke region.