Roanoke Considers Casino at Berglund Center; Animal Neglect Outrage in Vinton; Beth Macy’s New Book — Oct 15

Top stories across the Roanoke Valley and Southwest Virginia for Wednesday, October 15th, 2025:🎰 Casino Talks in Roanoke: City leaders explore bringing a casino to the Berglund Center, citing potential neighborhood and school reinvestment—while Delegate Joe McNamara and Sen. David Suetterlein push back.🔫 Bedford Father Charged: A man faces child abuse and firearm charges after a gun was found in his child’s daycare backpack.🐕 Justice for Max: Outrage grows after a neglected dog in Vinton had to be euthanized; police confirm an ongoing investigation as an online group plans a Friday protest.🗳 Election Ad Wars: With statewide races tightening, campaigns flood the airwaves with negative ads targeting opponents instead of issues.🎤 Lt. Governor’s Race: John Reid accuses Ghazala Hashmi of dodging debates, saying Democrats have “an affinity for violence.”🏨 Retro Revival: The Colony House Motor Lodge reopens on Franklin Road after a modern upgrade that preserves its classic 1960s charm.💸 Debt Collection Reform: A proposed Virginia bill would require proof before courts issue default judgments in consumer debt cases.📚 Beth Macy Returns: The Dopesick author releases her new memoir “Paper Girl,” exploring family, division, and resilience in small-town America.