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

In this episode, we highlight how Virginians are rallying to support one another after Hurricane Helene, with a food and water drive taking place at the Salem Civic Center. Roanoke College political expert Jonathan Snow breaks down the Vice Presidential debate, focusing on JD Vance’s dodge of January 6th questions and Tim Walz’s missed opportunities on immigration. We’ll also dive into other major local stories: a small plane crash in Bedford County, the latest on threats at Blacksburg High, an armed robbery in Roanoke County, and the only debate between Senator Tim Kaine and challenger Hung Cao. Additionally, we cover infrastructure challenges, crime prevention efforts, and a special report on Roanoke’s holiday crime meeting for local businesses. Don’t miss these top stories and more!

In today’s episode, we cover the upcoming food and water drive at the Salem Civic Center to aid those affected by recent storms in the New River Valley. WFIR and our sister stations are proud to sponsor the event, with Feeding Southwest Virginia asking for donations of bottled water and non-perishable foods. We also highlight ongoing disaster relief collections, the relocation of a local flower shop, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new event space. Plus, a look at the Virginia Lottery’s latest sports wagering report and details on the Roanoke Valley Preservation Foundation’s pub crawl fundraiser.

In today’s WFIR News Express Podcast, we cover U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, along with Rep. Morgan Griffith, requesting federal disaster assistance for Virginia in the wake of Hurricane Helene’s destruction. We also take a look at recovery efforts in Grayson and Pulaski Counties, where residents and crews are still dealing with significant damage.

In Roanoke County, Clearbrook Elementary School remains closed due to ongoing power outages caused by flooding. Norfolk Southern Corp is stepping up with a $100,000 donation to the Red Cross and matching employee contributions to aid in hurricane relief efforts.

We also preview tonight's Vice Presidential debate between JD Vance and Tim Walz, and bring you the latest on the FBI’s $22 million settlement in a class-action lawsuit over sexual harassment claims. Plus, Roanoke Fire-EMS crews responded to a major fire in downtown Roanoke, and Triple-A is now reporting electricity prices alongside their weekly fuel updates.

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In today’s WFIR News Express Podcast, we cover Governor Youngkin’s visit to areas impacted by Hurricane Helene, as he assesses the storm’s damage. We also report on the arrest of a Roanoke County woman charged with second-degree murder following a fatal shooting in Salem.

Additionally, we bring you updates on a Roanoke City shooting, a body discovered at Carvin’s Cove, and the ongoing debate over U.S. support for Ukraine’s long-range missile use. Dr. Verletta White shares her vision for Roanoke City Public Schools, and Virginia Western Community College expand its workforce training programs.

In other news, we discuss disparities in Black unemployment rates across Virginia and celebrate Atheling Meadworks in Roanoke, which won a Gold medal at the Mead Crafters Competition for its flagship mead.

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In today’s WFIR News Express Podcast, we report on the Roanoke City Commonwealth’s Attorney decision that a fatal officer-involved shooting in June was justified. We also discuss Roanoke City’s upcoming mayoral candidate forum, where residents will have the opportunity to hear from Vice Mayor Joe Cobb, Councilwoman Stephanie Moon-Reynolds, and Former Mayor David Bowers.

Additionally, we cover the investigation into a rumored threat at Patrick Henry High School, and the latest criticisms from a Republican Senate candidate regarding NATO. In Pulaski, the historic Calfee Training Center is being revitalized as a community center, and we share details on how the public can join in the celebration.

In other news, the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority has laid off four directors due to revenue declines, and Virginia Tech has received a $126,000 grant to support its Quantum Appalachia project.

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In today’s episode of the WFIR Streaming Update, we dive into the latest on Hurricane Helene as Governor Glenn Youngkin declares a state of emergency for Virginia. We’ll break down the storm’s projected path, how it could impact western parts of the state with heavy rainfall and flooding, and what precautions are being put in place. We’ll also discuss the enforcement of Virginia’s anti-price gouging laws to protect residents during the storm. Additionally, we’ll bring you the latest political headlines, including Youngkin’s withdrawal of support for a North Carolina candidate, Tim Kaine’s efforts to reform prescription drug pricing, and Roanoke’s upcoming full-service grocery store opening in November. Stay tuned for all the top local stories affecting the Commonwealth today.

In today’s WFIR News Express Podcast, we bring you the latest on a methamphetamine conspiracy linked to the murder of Big Stone Gap Police Officer Michael Chandler, with a recent sentencing in the case. We also cover the tragic deaths of two individuals in Roanoke County, followed by the discovery of the suspected shooter’s body in Franklin County.

In Henry County, a domestic dispute led to serious charges of abduction and shooting threats. On a lighter note, we celebrate Southwest Virginia band “Annabelle’s Curse” as their song "Pull the Weeds" gains viral fame on TikTok.

We also mark the 125th anniversary of the Bank of Botetourt, preview the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly renovated William Byrd High School, and highlight an upcoming "International Food & Wine Tour" at Hotel Roanoke. Plus, hear about a new sculpture honoring a Vietnam veteran at the Salem VA Medical Center.

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In today’s WFIR News Express Podcast, we report on a developing investigation in Roanoke County after two people were found dead, leading to local schools being placed in secure mode as a precaution. We also cover the strong turnout for early voting across the Commonwealth and Bedford County’s new funding to track highly regulated drugs used by first responders.

Additionally, we provide updates on the student accused of making false threats against Macy McClaugherty Elementary/Middle School, as well as details about tomorrow’s “Drive Thru to Prevent the Flu” event at the Berglund Center. Hispanic Heritage Month is in full swing, with local opportunities to celebrate and learn about the culture. Residents of Northeast Roanoke can participate in the city’s first-ever Fall Cleanup in October.

We also hear about the upcoming retirement of Salem Fire & EMS Chief John Prillaman after nearly three decades of service, and Mill Mountain Theatre’s staging of the classic "To Kill A Mockingbird."

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In today’s WFIR News Express Podcast, we bring you the latest on a high-speed chase in Henry County that left a deputy injured and two suspects in custody. We also cover a tragic police shooting in Montgomery County and share the inspiring story of a Franklin County man on the verge of receiving a life-saving kidney transplant.

With early voting underway in Virginia, we provide updates on election preparations and a recent lawsuit targeting a Radford store accused of illegally distributing marijuana. Plus, labor advocates are pushing for new federal protections against extreme heat for workers, while counterfeit $100 bills are circulating in Covington, prompting a warning from the Alleghany County Sheriff’s Office.

We celebrate Olympic gold medalist Cole Hocker’s return to Blacksburg and a new hotel project set to boost tourism in Vinton. Stay informed with all these stories and more.

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