AG Candidates Face Off; Casino Talks Continue in Roanoke; GO Fest Weekend Kicks Off — Oct 17

Top stories across Virginia and the Roanoke Valley for Friday, October 17th, 2025:⚖️ Attorney General Debate: Jason Miyares and Jay Jones clash at the University of Richmond over crime, energy policy and Jones’ controversial text messages about former House Speaker Todd Gilbert. Both candidates highlight their personal stories as polls show the race tight.🎰 Casino Buzz in Roanoke: Delegate Sam Rasoul joins the conversation as city leaders explore turning the Berglund Center into a casino anchoring an entertainment district.🕊 Political Endorsement: Jewish Voice for Peace Action backs Rasoul for re-election, praising his advocacy for Palestinian rights and his stance on U.S. policy in Gaza.🏛 Shutdown Showdown: Virginia’s GOP House delegation calls for an end to the federal shutdown, while Senator Mark Warner blames Senate gridlock after a tenth failed vote to fund the government.🌍 Middle East Perspective: Dr. Ed Lynch of Hollins University analyzes the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and the strained ties between President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu.⚖️ Former VT Student in Court: Cristian Romo-Bermejo waives a preliminary hearing on felony assault charges and remains in ICE custody pending a January trial date.👶 Governor Youngkin on Child Care: Youngkin touts state initiatives that he says have expanded childcare availability across Virginia.🎪 GO Fest Weekend: The free three-day festival returns to downtown Roanoke and Explore Park with live music, outdoor gear, demos, and the popular Ultimate Air Dogs.🌉 Lick Run Bridge Still Closed: A damaged greenway bridge in Northwest Roanoke remains out of service as city officials wait for a crane to complete repairs.