Spanberger Adds Local Mayors as Roanoke Debates Casino & Blacksburg Sets Recount Date

On this Friday, November 28, 2025, WFIR News Express brings you the top stories across Southwest and Central Virginia:• Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger adds Roanoke Mayor Joe Cobb and Christiansburg Mayor David Horton to her transition team, elevating regional voices on housing, economic development, and homelessness.• Roanoke keeps a proposed casino at the Berglund Center on its General Assembly wish list, despite firm opposition from Del. Sam Rasoul, Del. Joe McNamara, and Sen. David Suetterlein.• A recount is officially set for December 12 in the extremely tight Blacksburg mayoral race — separated by just 18 votes.• 6th District Democratic candidate Ken Mitchell says he supports the legislature’s redistricting push, but will respect voter sentiment if lawmakers ultimately decide not to proceed.• Lynchburg Police seize stolen guns during a traffic stop, arresting two men tied to a shooting into an occupied home.• Small Business Saturday returns to Downtown Roanoke, with local stores urging shoppers to keep holiday dollars in the community.• Roanoke musician Theodore Jefferson, newly signed with Sony, announces plans to build a free creative studio for foster youth, inspired by his own childhood.• Two Virginia brothers are charged after allegedly discussing plans to kill ICE agents, prompting a Homeland Security investigation.• The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle season is underway, with volunteer bell-ringers still needed and a holiday donation goal of $185,000.• More than 8,000 people turned out for the Drumstick Dash on Thanksgiving morning, helping fund the Rescue Mission’s holiday dining services.• Hotel Roanoke’s “Fashions for Evergreens” display is now open, featuring over two dozen decorated Christmas trees through New Year’s Day.• Vinton’s Christmas Parade and tree lighting arrive next Thursday evening, with road closures at 5:30 p.m.🎧 Your fast, reliable local news update — all in one place.