Flooded Roanoke Hotel, State of the City, Child Porn Arrest, and Downtown Parking Debate

On this Friday edition of WFIR News Express — August 22, 2025:🚔 Child Porn Arrest in Forest: A 38-year-old man is behind bars after investigators say he was caught with child sexual abuse material.🌊 Roanoke Hotel Flooded: Heavy rains forced guests to evacuate an Extended Stay hotel. Fire and EMS responded fast — hear what one guest saw.🏙️ State of the City: Mayor Joe Cobb touts progress on gun violence and housing, but says homelessness and zoning backlash remain challenges.🧭 Redistricting in Virginia? A top Democrat hints the Commonwealth could be next in line.⚖️ Racist Sign at Trans Rights Rally: Governor Youngkin and both major gubernatorial candidates respond after a sign targeting Lt. Gov. Earle-Sears goes viral.🚗 Roanoke Parking Debate: Business leaders weigh in as a citywide parking study gets underway. Is there really a problem downtown?🔪 Prison Attack Indictments: 66 felony charges filed after a gang-related stabbing of corrections officers at Wallens Ridge.🗳️ Felon Voting Rights: Youngkin’s case-by-case restoration policy stands after a court challenge.💼 Federal Job Cuts Hit Virginia: One Roanoke woman shares how losing her federal job impacted her — part of broader cuts tied to Trump’s agenda.🍼 New Diaper Bank Launches: Local nonprofit Huddle Up Moms expands support for new mothers with free diapers and supplies.✂️ Haircuts & Healing: A downtown Roanoke barbershop adds red light therapy for stress, pain, and energy.⛳ $250K Hole-in-One? Ten locals take their shot at a massive payday during a charity event at Blue Hills Golf Course.🎧 Listen now at WFIRNews.com — click the News Express tab.