The latest census count makes it official — Roanoke City’s population is once again above 100,000 for the first time in 40 years, and city officials expect the rebound to continue. You have to go back to 1980 for the last time census figures had Roanoke at 100,000 or more; for the next two decades,…… Continue Reading
VDOT says starting next Wednesday, US 460 will be reduced to one lane in each direction in the S-curve area just east of Montvale in Bedford County. It is part of a project to eliminate those curves and improve safety along that stretch of 460. For now, traffic in both directions will be shifted to…… Continue Reading
Virginia Tech classes begin a week from Monday, but at this point, there are still some students who have not completed the COVID-19 vaccination requirement that will permit their attendance on campus. The university’s on-line dashboard, updated Friday, shows 94% per cent of VT students have submitted the required proof of vaccination. Even by a…… Continue Reading
The chemical Paraquat is a weed killer used by farmers – some in this region – but exposure to it may lead to Parkinson’s disease and now a Virginia law firm has taken on that challenge. The story from WFIR’s Gene Marrano: 8-13 Paraquat Wrap #2-WEB The post Virginia law group takes on Big Chem…… Continue Reading
Some are restaurant owners tell us they are worried the return of increasing COVID-related restrictions may lead to another round of mandated limitations or closures, but for now, some fundamental challenges continue. Roanoke-are Bojangles owner Stan Seymour says it starts with finding workers, and on top of that, the shortage in truck drivers is limiting…… Continue Reading
The Northam Administration has issued a statewide indoor mask mandate for all Virginia K -12 schools. The health department order comes after some school systems had chosen not to require face coverings, and it follows what has been shifting guidance on the subject from Richmond in the last month that has frustrated many parents and…… Continue Reading
Virginia Tech is bringing the private club experience year round to Lane Stadium — except on game days, when tailgate events are promised. The University Club of Virginia Tech will occupy much of what has been the president’s suite at midfield, offering dining, event and meeting spaces, open to any interested members of the Hokie…… Continue Reading
The VDH today reported 2,361 new coronavirus cases statewide, marking the largest single day case spike since February 14th. State health officials reported 79 new cases but no new deaths or hospitalizations among Roanoke City, Salem, and Roanoke and Botetourt Counties. The post VDH reports largest single day COVID case spike since February first appeared…… Continue Reading
It has happened again. The TSA found a loaded handgun today inside a passenger’s carry-on bag at Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport. Officials say the woman bringing the gun was cited on weapons charges. By the TSA’s count, this is the 17th time in the past five years its Roanoke screeners have detected a handgun a passenger…… Continue Reading
A Roanoke man is charged with shooting a woman inside a northwest Roanoke home. City Police say the victim’s injuries appear to be critical. It happened Wednesday night in the 1200 block of 13th Street NW. officials say 28-year-old Percy Johnson of Roanoke was arrested nearby a short time later. The victim’s name has not…… Continue Reading