Sentencing Nears in UVA Shooting Case | Rural Health Challenges & Macy’s Fundraising Surge

On this Thursday edition of the WFIR News Express:⚖️ Defense attorneys lay out their case as the UVA shooting trial moves toward a Friday sentencing, describing Christopher Darnell Jones Jr.’s traumatic childhood and deteriorating mental state.🗳 Spanberger campaign leadership breaks down their winning strategy, crediting an affordability-focused message that resonated statewide.🏥 Rural Health Day highlights growing shortages, as advocates warn that nearly half of Virginia’s neighborhoods lack adequate primary care access.🚑 LewisGale Montgomery’s ER marks one year, with leaders calling the facility a long-needed upgrade for Christiansburg and I-81 travelers.🏛 Rep. Ben Cline pushes a symbolic vote on socialism, drawing criticism from Democrats who call the measure political theater.💰 Beth Macy posts a huge opening haul, raising $350,000 in her first 24 hours running in VA-06.⚖️ Pulaski County moves to end a 47-year tax-sharing agreement with Radford, prompting a fight over millions in lost revenue.🐴 Healing Strides reflects on more than a decade serving veterans through equine therapy.🦅 Avian flu confirmed in vultures across Southwest Virginia, but experts say the risk to people and poultry remains low with proper precautions.🚫 Water authorities urge residents not to dump holiday grease, offering free disposal kits to prevent sewer blockages.🎧 WFIR News Express — your quick, reliable update on what matters across the Roanoke Valley and Southwest Virginia.