WFIR News Express

By WFIR News

This podcast brings you daily Roanoke Valley and Virginia news in a quick format. Listen to the news on your schedule!... more

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FAQs about WFIR News Express:

How many episodes does WFIR News Express have?

The podcast currently has 632 episodes available.

WFIR News Express episodes:

January 03, 2025Missing Attorney Found, Bikes for a Cause, and Former VA Gov on U.S. Resolve
Bio:
In today’s episode of WFIR News Express:
A Roanoke attorney found safe: Luke Young, a Roanoke attorney who went missing over a week ago, has been located safe at a Fairfax fire station. After being examined at a hospital, Young’s family and community are relieved to know he is well.

Political ambitions in Fairfax: Fairfax County Supervisor Pat Herrity has announced his bid for the Republican nomination for Lieutenant Governor. Herrity, who secured reelection in a heavily Democratic district, joins business consultant John Curran in the race for the GOP nomination.

Former Governor Gilmore speaks out: Former Virginia Governor Jim Gilmore weighs in on recent acts of violence in New Orleans and Las Vegas. He urges Americans to maintain their resolve and confidence in the face of these challenges.

Franklin County leadership update: Ronnie Thompson remains chair of the Franklin County Board of Supervisors following a vote yesterday. Thompson has resumed his duties after recovering from a severe aortic dissection that kept him away from meetings for months.

Bikes for a cause: Carter Bank employees teamed up to assemble and donate 21 bicycles to the Rescue Mission of Roanoke. The effort not only supports community members in need but also served as a team-building exercise for the bank’s employees.

Remembering Jimmy Carter: A former Roanoke City Council member reflects on his time serving under President Jimmy Carter as assistant secretary of agriculture. The nation continues to honor Carter’s legacy after his passing.

Cybersecurity and China: Former U.S. cybersecurity head Chris Krebs comments on the incoming administration’s potential strategies to deter Chinese hackers following a major breach at the U.S. Treasury.

YMCA fitness focus: The new YMCA location at Tanglewood Mall is helping Roanoke residents kick off their New Year’s fitness goals. With classes like evening line dancing and a focus on building community, the Y offers something for everyone.

Lottery luck in Moneta: A winning ticket from the Virginia Lottery’s New Year’s Millionaire raffle was sold at Lake Mart and Deli in Moneta, with additional winners taking home $100,000 and $500 prizes.
Stay tuned for all this and more on WFIR News Express!
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9min
January 02, 2025 WFIR News Express 1-2-2025
Here is the latest news from around the Commonwealth of Virginia and Roanoke Valley.
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6min
December 30, 2024 Roanoke Arrest Shocks Community, Claytor Lake Cleanup Progress, and FloydFest 2025 Updates
Stay ahead of the curve with WFIR News Express, your trusted source for the top stories shaping Roanoke and Southwest Virginia. With fresh episodes every day, we bring you breaking news, local insights, and stories that matter—in just minutes. From mayoral races and community updates to national trends with a local impact, our concise, engaging format fits seamlessly into your busy routine. Whether you're a Southwest Virginia local or just looking to stay informed, join the thousands who rely on WFIR News Express to start their day smarter.
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7min
December 27, 2024 WFIR News Express 12-27-2024
Here is the latest news from around the Roanoke Valley and Commonwealth of Virginia.
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7min
December 26, 2024 WFIR News Express 12-26-2024
Here is the latest news from around the Roanoke Valley and Commonwealth of Virginia.
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6min
December 23, 2024Roanoke Mayoral Recount Results, TikTok Ban Challenge, and Washington Commanders Stadium Updates
Today's WFIR News Express covers the latest stories making headlines:
Roanoke’s Joe Cobb is officially the city’s mayor-elect after winning the recount by 29 votes.

14 people displaced in a Roanoke fire on 22nd Street SW.

TikTok ban debate: The U.S. Supreme Court will hear arguments on January 10th.

Washington Commanders’ stadium future clears a hurdle as Congress approves land transfer for RFK site.

Carilion’s new choir program expands to help those with brain injuries and dementia.

7-year-old patient Abby Dudley gives back with a heartwarming toy drive.

RAM House in Roanoke feels the strain as it supports a growing homeless population.

Scam alert in Bedford County: Lost dog scammers target pet owners.

Learn about Roanoke's new transit hub plans and the U.S. Department of Transportation grant backing the project.
🎧 Listen now to get the full scoop on these stories and more!
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8min
December 20, 2024Recount Continues in Roanoke Mayoral Race; Federal Shutdown Looms; Drone Sightings Spark Investigation
Today's WFIR News Express covers key developments across Virginia and beyond:
The Roanoke City mayoral recount resumes, with a 59-vote difference hanging in the balance.

Virginia's Attorney General weighs in as a government shutdown looms amid intense Congressional debate.

A federal study renews the conversation around teen marijuana use, as opposing groups clash over the implications.

Roanoke County Police investigate multiple commercial burglaries in Windsor Hills.

Drone activity across Virginia prompts over 150 tips to the state Fusion Center this month alone.

Heartwarming holiday cheer: Q99's "Breaking and Entering" contest delivers a surprise for a family in need.

Former Franklin County Sheriff's Major Justin Sigmon sentenced for abusive sexual contact of a minor on a cruise ship.

And more updates, including a touching story of community generosity, a tragic inmate death, and a Roanoke Rambler report on city budget mishaps.
🎧 Click to listen to the latest updates and insights from WFIR News Express!
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10min
December 18, 2024 TikTok Ruling Sparks Debate, Michael Vick's Coaching Comeback, and Fusion Energy Milestone in Virginia
In today’s WFIR News Express, Attorney General Jason Miyares highlights the risks of TikTok’s ties to the Chinese Communist Party and applauds a federal ruling that could lead to its nationwide ban.
Michael Vick is stepping into a new role as head coach of Norfolk State’s football team, marking the former NFL star and Virginia Tech legend's first coaching position.
A significant breakthrough in energy innovation: Commonwealth Fusion Systems plans to build the world’s first grid-scale commercial fusion power plant in Chesterfield County, creating hundreds of jobs and enough power for 150,000 homes.
Roanoke officials are under fire after a city audit revealed botched payments to after-school programs, leading to the loss of over $55,000 in federal grant money.
Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital celebrates a milestone with 47 deceased donors saving 119 lives nationwide. The hospital is also making strides toward becoming a kidney transplant center.
Holiday travelers take note: AAA expects over 3 million Virginians to hit the road, with gas prices at their lowest in three years, averaging $2.90 per gallon statewide.
Sports fans in D.C. may see the Washington Commanders return to RFK Stadium, as Congress moves closer to transferring the land to the District for redevelopment.
Roanoke City Council recognizes philanthropist Heywood Fralin as Citizen of the Year for 2024, honoring his contributions to healthcare, education, and wildlife preservation.
Grammy-winner Travis Tritt is set to perform at the Salem Civic Center on June 28, with tickets going on sale this week.
Bedford County deputies will bring holiday cheer, delivering presents to local elementary schools tomorrow, while Franklin County Schools have added Friday as an additional day off for winter break.
Stay tuned to WFIR News Express for all this and more.
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10min
December 17, 2024 Roanoke Golden Corral Shooting, Drone Sightings in Virginia, and Michael Vick Eyes Head Coach Role
In today’s WFIR News Express, a 15-year-old boy from Rocky Mount is in custody after a gun was fired inside a Golden Corral in Roanoke on Sunday. The suspect faces multiple charges, including reckless handling of a firearm.
The Virginia Fusion Center has received more than 100 tips regarding drone sightings across the Commonwealth. Officials are reminding residents not to interfere with the drones and to report unusual activity through proper channels.
Governor Glenn Youngkin has unveiled a tax policy proposal that would exempt income earned from tips, aiming to support workers in industries like dining and personal care. Lieutenant Governor Winsome Sears says Virginia could set a national standard with the policy.
Outgoing Roanoke Mayor Sherman Lea presided over his final City Council meeting, expressing gratitude for his decades of service and encouraging incoming council members as the city prepares for a mayoral recount later this week.
Norfolk State University has reportedly interviewed former NFL and Virginia Tech quarterback Michael Vick for its head football coaching position. Vick, also linked to Sacramento State, expects a decision on his future soon.
Roanoke announced the winners of its snowplow naming contest, with “Austin Plowers,” “Plowy McPlowface,” and “The Big Leplowski” among the top picks out of 300 submissions.
HCA Healthcare has awarded a $50,000 grant to Virginia Western Community College to expand non-nursing healthcare programs and improve workforce diversity. The initiative could be replicated at other community colleges across the state.
A Northern Virginia man has been convicted on terrorism charges for collecting and funneling funds to the Islamic State group during an FBI sting operation.
First Lady Jill Biden has officially ended her teaching career at Northern Virginia Community College, closing a chapter that made her the first woman to work professionally while serving as first lady.
Stay up to date with these stories and more on WFIR News Express.
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7min
December 16, 2024 Fatal Franklin County Crash, Poages Mill Project Paused, and Roanoke PAC Pushes for Greenway Expansion
In today’s WFIR News Express, a 27-year-old Franklin County woman, Heather Thurman, has died in a crash on Truevine Road near Pig River Road. Authorities say she was not wearing a seatbelt when her vehicle ran off the road and struck a tree.
A-Boone Real Estate has withdrawn its rezoning request for the Poages Mill property in Roanoke County. Developer Alexander Boone says the plan for a mixed-use community is being reevaluated after residents raised concerns about commercial and retail spaces.
Reports suggest Virginia Congressman Bobby Scott may challenge Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination. Concerns among Virginia Democrats include Spanberger’s ability to connect with Black voters, an issue highlighted during the recent election.
The Valley Outdoor Infrastructure Committee (VOICe) is calling for community support in urging Roanoke City Council to increase the budget for outdoor amenities. The PAC aims to see the Roanoke River Greenway completed and the Roanoke Mountain campground reopened.
A house fire in the Catawba area of Roanoke County displaced one person and four dogs. The accidental fire caused by an energized ground wire led to $100,000 in damages.
Thousands of volunteers contributed to Operation Christmas Child by packing shoeboxes for children in over 100 countries. While the deadline for physical boxes has passed, there’s still time to build and send a shoebox online.
Members of Forest Level Baptist Church gathered for their first service since an explosion destroyed their 151-year-old building. Pastor Marcin Wilson says the congregation remains resilient in their faith as they prepare to rebuild.
Stay informed with these stories and more on WFIR News Express.
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7min

FAQs about WFIR News Express:

How many episodes does WFIR News Express have?

The podcast currently has 632 episodes available.