The Cardinal: News of Virginia

A massive Google data center is coming to Botetourt County, and it’s already sparking intense debate across the Roanoke region. In this episode, Dutchie Jessee sits down with Roanoke Valley reporter Samantha Verrelli to break down what’s known about the project and why so many residents are raising concerns.From millions of gallons of daily water use drawn from Carvin’s Cove to questions about noise, energy demand, and long-term environmental impact, the stakes go far beyond county lines. At the same time, local leaders are pointing to major tax revenue and economic potential, even as details around jobs and regional benefits remain unclear.Is this a turning point for growth in Southwest Virginia, or a deal that could reshape local resources in ways we don’t fully understand yet? This conversation digs into what’s fact, what’s still unknown, and why this project has people paying close attention.

Ten hospitals in Virginia have been labeled “at risk” of closure. But what does that actually mean, and how close are they to shutting their doors?In this episode of The Cardinal: News of Virginia, host Dutchie Jessee talks with healthcare reporter Emily Schabacker to break down the data behind the headlines. Drawing from her reporting at Cardinal News, Emily explains why “at risk” is not the same as closing, and how federal policy changes, funding shifts, and patient trends are putting real pressure on rural hospitals.For many communities, the impact is already being felt. Services are being cut. Travel times are getting longer. Access to emergency care is becoming less certain. The bigger question is not just whether hospitals will close, but what happens if they cannot keep up.Listen now for a clear look at what is happening and what it could mean for rural Virginia.

What happens when a billion-dollar casino lands in the middle of a small city?This week on The Cardinal: News of Virginia, host Dutchie Jessee sits down with Danville reporter Grace Mamon to unpack the real impact of Caesars Virginia — beyond the flashing lights and headline numbers. Since opening its full resort in late 2024, the casino has brought jobs, visitors, and tax revenue to Danville, but the ripple effects aren’t reaching every corner of the community equally.Grace shares what she’s hearing from business owners on the ground—from those seeing a surge in foot traffic just steps from the casino, to others in the River District still waiting for that promised boost. They also dig into what Caesars and the city are doing next to connect visitors with the broader community—and whether optimism is holding strong or starting to wear thin.

Virginia Redistricting Showdown: What the April 21 Referendum Means for Your VoteA major decision is coming in Virginia, and it could reshape how political power is drawn for years to come.In this episode of The Cardinal: News of Virginia, host Dutchie Jessee sits down with Cardinal News founding editor and columnist Dwayne Yancey to break down the upcoming April 21 special election and the controversial redistricting referendum at the center of it. From the rise of the slogan “Don’t Fairfax my vote” to deeper tensions between rural communities and Northern Virginia, this conversation explores the political messaging, economic realities, and regional divides driving the debate.They also unpack concerns over ballot language, especially the use of “restore fairness,” and why it is raising questions among critics who say it could influence voters. You will learn how Virginia’s current bipartisan redistricting system works, what happens when it reaches a deadlock, and how the proposed change would temporarily give map drawing power back to the General Assembly.With legal challenges already filed and the Virginia Supreme Court choosing to weigh in after the election, there is also the possibility that the results could face uncertainty even after votes are cast.If you want a clear, fact based understanding of Virginia redistricting, the April 21 referendum, and what it all means for your vote, this episode breaks it all down.Stay informed with Cardinal News’ nonpartisan voter guide at cardinalnews.org.

This week on The Cardinal: News of Virginia, host Dutchie Jessee sits down with founding editor and columnist Dwayne Yancey to break down a high-stakes stretch in Virginia politics. With a critical April 13 deadline looming, the governor must decide the fate of dozens of bills, choosing to sign, veto, or send them back to the General Assembly. Expect fewer headline-grabbing vetoes and more behind-the-scenes maneuvering as legislation returns for revisions in a same-party power dynamic.They dig into the issues driving debate across the Commonwealth. Cannabis legalization remains stuck in a gray area, with retail sales still out of reach despite legislative movement. Skill games are back on the table, casino expansion is inching forward, and the long-promised gaming commission is once again delayed. Meanwhile, a major budget standoff over data centers and tax incentives has brought lawmakers to a standstill, raising big questions about economic growth, energy consumption, and who really benefits.The conversation also turns to a surprising political subplot. Early voting is surging ahead of the April 21 special election tied to redistricting, with turnout patterns already raising eyebrows across party lines. What it signals, and what it could reshape, is still unfolding.From legislative deadlines to election momentum, this episode delivers a clear, sharp look at where Virginia politics stands right now and where it’s headed next.

A $330 million casino proposal in the heart of Roanoke is sparking one of the most heated local debates in years—and it could completely reshape the future of the Berglund Center.This week on The Cardinal Podcast, host Dutchie Jessee sits down with Roanoke Valley reporter Samantha Verrelli to break down what’s really at stake. City leaders say an entertainment district with a casino, hotel, and restaurants could transform a struggling, 50-year-old civic center into a major economic driver. But critics warn the risks—crime, addiction, and harm to local businesses and the arts community—may outweigh the reward.Behind the scenes, the city is facing budget cuts, a hiring freeze, rising maintenance costs, and tough financial decisions. Meanwhile, state lawmakers are pushing back, key funding proposals have already failed, and any casino plan would still need General Assembly approval and a public referendum.So what happens next? And what does this mean for the people who live, work, and invest in Roanoke?👉 This episode dives into:The full Berglund Center casino proposal and entertainment district planWhy city leaders say Roanoke needs a “big bold idea”The growing opposition from lawmakers and community voicesEconomic realities shaping the decisionThe deeper conversation around equity, history, and redevelopment in RoanokeThis isn’t just about a casino—it’s about the future identity of Roanoke.🎧 Watch or listen now and decide for yourself: Is this Roanoke’s next big opportunity… or a gamble the city can’t afford?

How transparent are Virginia’s local governments when citizens ask for public records?In this episode of The Cardinal: News of Virginia, host Dutchie Jessee sits down with Cardinal News executive editor Jeff Schwaner to break down the newsroom’s ambitious Sunshine Week “public audit” project—a real-world test of how local governments respond to Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests.To conduct the audit, 24 students from Radford University submitted basic public records requests across communities including Roanoke, Danville, Martinsville, Lynchburg, Bristol, and Radford. They asked for information taxpayers should be able to access easily—documents like school superintendent contracts, city budgets, and spending on outside legal counsel. The goal: measure government transparency, response time, and openness while reminding citizens that public records belong to the public.Jeff explains how the project worked, why FOIA laws matter for democracy, and what happens next as Cardinal News prepares report cards grading local governments on transparency and responsiveness. The investigation will also reveal patterns in what information is easy to obtain—and what government agencies resist sharing.If you’ve ever wondered how to request public records, how FOIA works in Virginia, or whether your local government is truly transparent, this conversation pulls back the curtain.Watch or listen now to learn how journalists—and everyday citizens—can hold government accountable.

Why are HIV support services disappearing across parts of Virginia?In this episode of The Cardinal: News of Virginia, host Dutchie Jessee talks with Cardinal News health care reporter Emily Schabacker about how funding cuts and a billing error within the Virginia Department of Health slashed support for the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program. The changes have forced office closures and reduced case management for hundreds of low-income clients in Southwest and Southside Virginia — raising questions about what happens next for people who rely on these services.

For more than a century, Virginia Baptist Hospital has been a Lynchburg landmark — a place where generations were born, trained as nurses and built careers in health care. Now, Centra’s modernization plan will phase services out of the Rivermont campus by 2028, leaving the historic 30-acre property empty and the community asking: What comes next?Host Dutchie Jessee talks with Lynchburg reporter Emma Malinak about the hospital’s deep roots, its Georgian architecture in the Rivermont Historic District and the logistical challenges of practicing 21st-century medicine in a 100-year-old building. They explore the preservation rules, the redevelopment possibilities — from housing to retail to community space — and why local voices will shape the future of one of Lynchburg’s most meaningful touchstones.

Virginia voters approved redistricting reform in 2020 to end partisan gerrymandering and take map-drawing power away from the General Assembly. But when the bipartisan commission deadlocked, the Virginia Supreme Court stepped in to create the current congressional and legislative districts.In this episode, host Dutchie Jessee talks with Politics and Policy reporter Elizabeth Beyer and Founding Editor Dwayne Yancey about how Virginia’s political maps were drawn, why Democrats are pushing new redistricting efforts and what it means for voters across the Commonwealth.

Cardinal News is expanding into the New River Valley in a big way — and this is just the beginning.In this episode of The Cardinal: News of Virginia, host Lisa Rowan talks with Audience Engagement and Retention Manager Laura Kebede-Twumasi about the launch of Cardinal’s first location-specific weekly newsletter dedicated to the New River Valley, now the newsroom’s second-largest readership region after Roanoke. Covering Blacksburg, Christiansburg, Radford, Montgomery County, Pulaski County, Floyd County, Giles County, Wythe County, Carroll County and Bland County, this expansion marks a major investment in local journalism, nonprofit news and community-driven reporting across Southwest Virginia.They discuss how stronger New River Valley coverage will mean more agenda stories before public meetings, deeper community engagement, in-person conversations to rebuild trust in media and a region-wide audience survey to shape future reporting. The goal is clear: build lasting support, listen first and lay the groundwork for a dedicated full-time reporter serving the New River Valley.If you care about the future of local news in Virginia, community accountability and growing trusted journalism in rural communities, this episode is a front-row seat to what’s next.

Lynchburg is getting its highest level of soccer yet — and it’s not just about goals and game days. Host Lisa Rowan sits down with Cardinal News reporter Emma Malinak to unpack the arrival of Hill City FC, a new USL 2 team bringing elite competition, community investment and real sports momentum to central Virginia.From hometown co-founder Anthony Catalano’s full-circle journey back to Lynchburg, to what this team means for young athletes, sports tourism and the city’s growing soccer culture — this episode is a crash course in how one team can change the game.

Host Lisa Rowan sits down with Cardinal News reporter Grace Mamon to explore Echo Valley, a new micro resort coming to Pittsylvania County that’s bringing glamping — glamorous camping — to southern Virginia. The resort will feature dome-style units, walking trails, spa amenities, yoga retreats, and farm-to-table meals, all tucked into a wooded property that’s been in the same family for over a century.They also unpack why tourism is booming in the Danville region, how Echo Valley navigated rezoning hurdles, and what residents had to say about traffic, land use, and growth. It’s a story about rural innovation, changing travel habits, and how small-scale development is reshaping local economies — one dome at a time.

Roanoke just got a major new player in its live music scene — and it’s housed inside a century-old bank vault.In this episode of the Cardinal News of Virginia podcast, host Lisa Rowan sits down with technology reporter Tad Dickens to explore the Exchange Music Hall, a brand-new 1,200-capacity venue in downtown Roanoke. Built inside the former First National Exchange Bank, the space is part of a major redevelopment that also includes a boutique hotel and a Spanish restaurant — and it’s already earning praise for its surprisingly excellent acoustics.Tad shares what it was like attending the venue’s New Year’s Eve show headlined by Grace Potter, why the sound quality stood out, and how the Exchange fits into Roanoke’s broader concert ecosystem — landing perfectly between small club gigs and arena shows. With roots in FloydFest and plans to book everything from bluegrass and Americana to rock and soul, this venue could reshape how Roanoke experiences live music.🎶 From bank lobby to bass lines — this is the story of Roanoke’s newest stage.

What happens when the cost of caring for a pet rises faster than families can afford, and animal shelters are left to absorb the impact?In this episode of The Cardinal: News of Virginia, host Lisa Rowan speaks with Cardinal News reporters Emma Malinak and Grace Mamon about two deeply connected animal welfare stories unfolding in Central and Southside Virginia. As veterinary costs continue to climb, pet owners are facing difficult decisions, and shelters are feeling the strain.Emma Malinak reports on a new affordable care veterinary clinic being built by the Lynchburg Humane Society. Set to open in November, the clinic will expand access to vaccines, spay and neuter services, and basic surgeries through flexible, tiered pricing. The goal is to keep pets healthy and in their homes by removing financial barriers before families are forced to consider surrender.Grace Mamon takes listeners inside the ongoing and often emotional debate surrounding Danville’s only animal shelter. As an open intake facility, the shelter accepts every animal regardless of space, which can lead to heartbreaking outcomes when resources are stretched thin. The conversation explores what is driving high euthanasia numbers, what solutions are being proposed, and how community responsibility plays a critical role in reducing shelter intake.The episode also highlights the work of Homeward Trails, a Northern Virginia nonprofit now operating in Danville. Through foster coordination and a pet pantry that helps families afford food and supplies, the organization aims to prevent owner surrenders and relieve pressure on the municipal shelter.Together, the reporters reflect on why these stories resonate so strongly with readers and listeners, and why objective, community-focused journalism is essential when emotions run high and the stakes are personal.

Host Lisa Rowan and Cardinal News Executive Editor Jeff Schwaner look back at the stories that mattered most in 2025. From accountability reporting to investigative work, they discuss how Cardinal News covers power, policy, and people across the region. The conversation also turns forward, with a look at what the newsroom is watching and planning for 2026.

Virginia landfills millions of tons of waste each year — much of it food. In this episode, host Lisa Rowan talks with Cardinal News reporter Samantha Verrelli about what really happens to food scraps, why composting struggles to gain traction, and how small operators are pushing back against a system designed to bury waste, not reuse it.

Virginia has made a big bet on cybersecurity—and it’s paying off in some surprising places. In this episode of the Cardinal News podcast, host Lisa Rowan talks with technology reporter Tad Dickens about his deep dive into the Commonwealth Cyber Initiative, a statewide effort connecting colleges, universities, and businesses to strengthen digital security. From a virtual water treatment plant at VMI to students helping small businesses in Wise protect their payment systems, Dickens explains how these projects are preparing students for real-world cyber threats and why Southwest Virginia is playing a key role.

Virginia politics is heading into winter with a historic shift — and things are about to get busy in Richmond. Host Lisa Rowan sits down with political reporter Elizabeth Beyer, Cardinal News’ one-woman bureau in the capital, to break down what’s coming before lawmakers gavel in on January 14.With Democrats now holding the House, Senate, and the governor’s office — a trifecta not seen in roughly four decades — the stage is set for a transformational General Assembly session. Elizabeth walks us through the big-ticket items: affordability plans, a slate of constitutional amendments on abortion access, same-sex marriage, voting rights, and a potential redistricting overhaul.They also dig into the upcoming budget battle, the impact of the federal shutdown on Virginians, and the new faces representing Southwest and Southside. And, of course, Elizabeth gives a peek at what her “60-day sprint” looks like as she triages hundreds of bills from the heart of Capitol Square.A smart, timely look at the policies and power dynamics shaping Virginia’s future.

Rural maternity care in Virginia is shrinking — and fast.In this week’s episode of The Cardinal: News of Virginia, host Lisa Rowan sits down with health care reporter Emily Schabacker to unpack the closure of the obstetrics and gynecology department at Centra Southside Community Hospital in Farmville. It’s the latest in a troubling trend: since 2018, five rural labor and delivery units have shut down across the Commonwealth, leaving only seven of Virginia’s 28 rural hospitals still offering obstetrics care after December 19.Emily breaks down what’s driving these cuts, from long-standing financial pressures to the pandemic-era challenges that pushed hospitals to rely on costly traveling providers. She explains how low birth numbers, staffing shortages, and shifting healthcare economics have made it harder for rural communities to maintain access to safe, local maternity care.What does this mean for families in Farmville and across rural Virginia? And what are the long-term consequences when essential services disappear from local hospitals?We dig into the data, the context, and the human impact behind the headlines.

This week’s episode dives headfirst into one of the most gripping stories Virginia has seen in years — the case of the missing baby giraffes from the Natural Bridge Zoo. What began as a routine state inquiry has spiraled into a full-blown criminal investigation, court orders, public outrage, and even a celebrity-backed reward. With the zoo’s manager choosing jail time over revealing the animals’ whereabouts, questions are mounting and patience is wearing thin.Host Lisa Rowan sits down with Dwayne Yancey who has covered every turn of this unfolding saga. Together, they unpack the timeline, the legal stakes, the mystery at the center of it all, and why these young giraffes have captured statewide — and national — attention. From investigative findings to courtroom showdowns to that headline-grabbing offer from Alicia Silverstone, this episode pulls together everything we know so far and what’s likely to come next.

Host Lisa Rowan talks with reporter Grace Mamon about Halifax County’s ambitious proposal for a recovery campus that would provide housing, transportation, and other essential services for people in recovery from substance use disorder. They explore what’s driving the project, the challenges it faces, and how it could reshape recovery efforts in rural Virginia.

In this episode, Lisa Rowan and Samantha Verrelli explore how a breakdown in communication and enforcement allowed a major Roanoke property to operate without fire protection for more than a year. They unpack the policies that failed to prevent disaster, the timeline city leaders must now answer for, and how journalists bring transparency to local oversight systems that often go unseen.

Virginia’s abortion debate has gone hyper-local. Reporter Emma Malinak joins Lisa Rowan to break down Lynchburg’s proposed zoning changes, the arguments on both sides and what these local battles say about the future of reproductive policy in the Commonwealth.

It’s been one year since Hurricane Helene tore through Southwest Virginia, leaving behind collapsed bridges, vanished homes, and entire communities forced to start over. In this episode of The Cardinal: News of Virginia, host Lisa Rowan sits down with Southwest Virginia reporter Susan Cameron to revisit the towns hit hardest by the storm — and to hear how people are rebuilding not just their homes, but their lives.From neighbors helping neighbors to the tireless volunteers still on the ground, this is a story of resilience, community, and hope amid the wreckage. And as recovery continues, Susan and Lisa also explore what can be done to prepare for future floods — and how lessons from Helene may help protect Virginia’s mountain communities the next time disaster strikes.

This week on The Cardinal: News of Virginia, host Dutchie Jessee sits down with politics and policy reporter Elizabeth Beyer and founding editor and columnist Dwayne Yancey to talk about how covering political campaigns has changed, especially in the age of social media.With voters scrolling instead of rallying, and candidates now building their own digital megaphones, journalists face a new kind of challenge: how to cut through the noise and hold power to account when everyone has a platform.From this year’s Virginia governor’s race to the evolving ways candidates communicate — or don’t — we explore how social media has reshaped the relationship between politicians, the press and the public.

Host Lisa Rowan sits down with Martinsville/Henry County reporter Dean-Paul Stephens to unpack the housing shortage hitting Martinsville and the surrounding area. While many cities across the U.S. are grappling with housing shortages, smaller communities face unique challenges. This shortage is driving up housing costs and creating roadblocks for workforce development programs trying to find homes for employees. Dean breaks down what’s behind the crisis and what it means for local families and workers.

In this episode, host Lisa Rowan sits down with reporter Tad Dickens to trace the unlikely journey of Roanoke’s biomedical transformation. What began 15 years ago with a single researcher and a question (“What if?”) has now ballooned into Fralin Biomedical Research Institute — a cornerstone of a region reborn as a hub for healthcare, life sciences and innovation.

Electricity demand in Virginia is climbing fast — fueled by data centers, AI, and a surge of everyday energy needs. But can the state’s grid keep up? Host Lisa Rowan sits down with Cardinal News business reporter Matt Busse to unpack how policymakers, utilities, and communities are grappling with rising demand for power. From new bills in Richmond to debates over data center growth, they break down the high-stakes choices shaping Virginia’s energy future, and what it all means for you.

Four years ago, a small team of journalists set out to change how news was covered in Southwest and Southside Virginia. Today, Cardinal News has grown into a trusted, independent newsroom that is paywall free, nonprofit, and committed to covering communities that are too often overlooked.In this special anniversary episode, Lisa Rowan sits down with Executive Director and founder Luanne Rife to reflect on Cardinal’s beginnings, its growth, and the critical role it plays in Virginia’s news landscape. From launching with just three journalists to building a statewide presence, hear how Cardinal has filled a vital gap in coverage and get a glimpse of what is ahead in year five and beyond.As we celebrate our fourth birthday, we invite you to support our growth by becoming a member. Help us reach our goal of 100 new members and ensure that independent, nonpartisan news continues to thrive in Virginia. Join here: https://cardinalnews.org/membership/

In this episode, host Lisa Rowan sits down with reporter Grace Mamon to tell a story that’s rarely told — Haitian immigrants in Danville who fled violence and instability at home, drawn by the promise of work and safety, now find themselves in limbo as federal policy changes strip away their legal protections.Together they explore:What it means to earn humanitarian parole status and why it mattered — and what happens when it’s revoked.How one job loss in Danville affects not just an individual, but entire families back in Haiti relying on remittances.The emotional struggle of uncertainty — when your future depends on what Washington does.What legal pathways remain for those facing status cancellations, and what it’s like on the ground in small‐town America when people are reduced to waiting and wondering.This is a story of migration, policy, hope, and fear. If you thought immigration debates were only about numbers or politics, this episode will put faces and lives in the middle of it.

In this episode of The Cardinal: News of Virginia, host Dutchie Jessee chats with founding editor Dwayne Yancey about Virginia’s latest population projections from the Weldon Cooper Center at UVA. They break down 10 key takeaways that reveal where people are moving, where communities are shrinking, and what these trends mean for the state over the next 25 years.From Lynchburg adding more residents than the Roanoke and New River valleys combined to Loudoun County’s explosive growth, and from Roanoke slowly approaching 100,000 residents again to rural coal counties facing dramatic population declines, this episode highlights the big shifts shaping Virginia’s future. Tune in to understand how growth, decline, and aging populations will reshape communities across the state, and why it matters for cities, suburbs, and rural areas alike.

This week on The Cardinal: News of Virginia, host Dutchie Jessee sits down with education reporter Lisa Rowan to explore a groundbreaking new high school opening in Northwest Roanoke, one that’s not for teens, but for adults looking for a fresh start. They discuss how the Excel Center, operated by Goodwill Industries of the Valleys, is giving adults who never finished high school a second chance to earn a diploma, boost their careers, and change the trajectory of their lives. From free child care to career coaching and internships, discover how this program is breaking down barriers, building confidence, and proving that it’s never too late to learn — or to dream bigger.

Catastrophic flooding has hit communities across the U.S. in recent years — including Buchanan County, Virginia, which has suffered three major floods in just four years. Now, Buchanan and nearby Botetourt County are piloting new flood warning systems that combine sensors, rain gauges, predictive modeling, and real-time alerts to give local officials crucial minutes of preparation. In this episode of The Cardinal: News of Virginia, host Dutchie Jessee talks with Cardinal News reporter Susan Cameron, who explains how these cutting-edge systems work, why they’re especially vital for mountainous regions prone to flash flooding, and what this technology could mean for the future of flood preparedness across the state. Read Susan's full story here: https://cardinalnews.org/2025/07/18/2-western-virginia-counties-now-have-flood-warning-systems-to-gather-data-and-guide-local-officials-during-emergencies/

When a February flood tore through Richlands, Virginia, it left more than 150 homes damaged and dozens of families displaced. But unlike their neighbors just across the border in West Virginia and Kentucky—who got federal money to rebuild—many Virginians were told they didn’t qualify for FEMA’s individual assistance. The reason? A formula that counts the wealth of Northern Virginia’s million-dollar homes against the needs of Southwest Virginia’s poorest residents.In this episode, host Dutchie Jessee sits down with Cardinal News politics and policy reporter Elizabeth Beyer to unpack how FEMA calculates disaster aid, why Virginia’s relative wealth raises the bar for help, and whether a regional approach, or state-funded safety net, could close the gap. Through the voices of residents like Mike and Sherry Smith, who lost the home they’d lived in for decades, we examine the human cost of a system where the same storm brings two very different recoveries.

Virginia is confronting two entirely different—and urgent—health stories. Syphilis infections are climbing, and congenital cases surged 66% in 2024, exposing more newborns to devastating, preventable outcomes. Meanwhile, new residential recovery centers in Southwest Virginia are opening doors for pregnant and parenting moms to stay with their children while getting treatment, thanks to opioid settlement funds. What do these two trends tell us about gaps—and hope—in Virginia’s public health response? Find out as host Dutchie Jessee discusses the healthcare battles facing Virginia's children with reporter Emily Schabacker.

“A Creek Reborn: What Lynchburg Lost and Gained by Removing College Lake Dam”This week, host Dutchie Jessee welcomes Lynchburg reporter Emma Malinak to the show to talk about her in-depth reporting on the decades-long effort to restore Blackwater Creek. For nearly a century, the College Lake Dam held back this tributary to the James River — until public safety concerns, climate pressure, and a vision for ecological restoration changed everything.Dutchie and Emma dig into what’s at stake when a city removes a beloved landmark like a lake, the environmental and political debates that have unfolded, and what the future holds for this stretch of rewilded waterway. It’s a conversation about legacy, landscape, and the tension between human engineering and the natural world, and it’s one you won’t want to miss.

Wait, wait — don’t skip the legal notices! In this episode, Dutchie and Luanne make the case for why these often-overlooked announcements are actually essential reading. From government bids to name changes and property transfers, public notices ensure that government remains transparent. Learn how Cardinal News is bringing this centuries-old practice into the digital future — and why you should care.

Google just bought land in Botetourt County, Virginia — and the tech world is buzzing. Is a data center really coming to this rural corner of the state? Or is it just a maybe?In this episode of The Cardinal: News of Virginia, host Dutchie Jessee is joined by business reporter Matt Busse and founding editor Dwayne Yancey to dig into the details of Google’s recent land acquisition. Together, they explore what this potential development could mean for Botetourt County and the surrounding region.Could this be a new era of economic growth for rural Virginia? What are the trade-offs that come with data centers — from tax benefits to environmental concerns to infrastructure strain? And why are big tech companies starting to look beyond Northern Virginia and into the hills of the commonwealth’s southern and western regions?🎧 Tune in for an inside look at a quiet land deal that could make a big noise.

In June 1963, civil rights protestors flooded the streets of Danville, Virginia — demanding justice, equality, and a voice. But in the city’s daily newspaper? The story was barely there.In this episode of "The Cardinal: News of Virginia", host Dutchie Jessee sits down with reporter Grace Mamon to explore her Redbird series investigating how Danville’s civil rights movement was covered — or deliberately distorted — by the press.Grace uncovers a stark divide: One paper toed the line of power, criminalizing protestors. Another, a lone Black-owned weekly, fought to publish “the truth.” Through archival reporting, media analysis, and personal accounts, this conversation dives deep into how journalism shaped — and warped — public understanding of a pivotal moment in Virginia’s history.This is more than a historical case study. It’s a hard look at journalism’s responsibility — then and now — to tell the full story.

In this episode, host Dutchie Jessee sits down with Dwayne Yancey, founding editor of Cardinal News, to explore 25 eye‑opening destinations across Southwest and Southside Virginia—places where gubernatorial candidates Abigail Spanberger and Winsome Earle‑Sears could learn critical policy lessons firsthand.They journey from the congested lanes of Interstate 81 (a traffic and infrastructure flashpoint) to booming solar farms in Southside that highlight the state’s renewable-energy divide. They unpack nuclear innovation in Lynchburg, the controversies around the Mountain Valley Pipeline, and the upcoming Rocky Forge wind farm in Botetourt County—all showcasing how energy, infrastructure, and rural development intersect.📌 Highlights you'll hear about:I‑81 “trucktrap” traffic between Christiansburg and Salem—a transportation dilemma begging for policy attention.Solar farm surge in Pittsylvania County, and why it's both a lifeline and a lightning rod.The push—and opposition—to small modular reactors near Lynchburg, and what that signals for Virginia’s energy future.The Mountain Valley Pipeline’s decade‑long saga—where federal, environmental, and economic interests collide.A sneak peek at wind power in Botetourt, rural schools, hospitals, broadband, and more—illustrating the diversity of challenges western Virginians face.🎧 Why it matters now: With both Spanberger and Earle‑Sears gearing up for statewide office, understanding these “real Virginia” issues is crucial. Shouldn’t our statewide leaders walk the roads, talk to the farmers, visit the schools?Tune in for a candid, sharply informed conversation on regional resilience, energy transitions, infrastructure equity—and why visiting these places could shape policy in unexpected ways.🔔 Subscribe and leave a review if you believe that no part of Virginia should be left off the map when it comes to governance. 📢 And don’t forget: share this with anyone who cares about rural communities and the real-world impact of policy decisions.

Host Dutchie Jessee is joined by Cardinal News reporter Tad Dickens to explore a surprising story growing in Southwest Virginia — vertical farming. In this episode, they dig into how controlled environment agriculture is taking root in rural towns, repurposing old tobacco warehouses and bringing tech-powered farming to unexpected places. Can this high-tech approach help revive Virginia’s agricultural economy — without ever touching soil or sunlight?🎧 Tune in to find out how LEDs, sensors, and a lot of water are growing more than just crops — they might be growing a new future for rural America.

In this episode, Dutchie Jessee and Lisa Rowan dig into Virginia’s HEAT (Help Eliminate Auto Theft) fund — a 30‑year‑old program quietly financed by a 0.25% fee on comprehensive auto insurance. Learn how over $1 million per year is now funneled into license‑plate reader (LPR) surveillance tech from companies like Flock, widely deployed across rural and urban areas. We explore the controversial rise of surveillance cameras paid by drivers, examine FOIA reports, local law enforcement motivations, privacy and oversight challenges, and what it means for everyday Virginians. Tune in for an eye‑opening conversation on car theft, public safety funding, data privacy and accountability in modern law enforcement.

Join Dutchie Jessee on this revealing episode of "The Cardinal: News of Virginia," as she sits down with executive editor Jeff Schwaner and reporters Samantha Verrelli and Dean‑Paul Stephens to unpack Cardinal News’s latest investigation into the expansive use of license plate reader (LPR) cameras across Southwest and Southside Virginia.Discover how local law enforcement agencies are deploying LPRs — like Flock Safety and mobile unit networks — to crack crimes, recover stolen vehicles, assist in Amber Alerts and conduct missing‑person searchesLearn what Virginia's new LPR law, effective July 1, mandates — fundamental limits on use, 21‑day footage retention, mandatory public policies and reports — alongside worrisome loopholes, such as “Other” search categories and reduced public oversight.Hear about the legal battle centering on a FOIA request by Cardinal News to access LPR data, led by Schwaner himself, culminating in a court decision affirming that at least some LPR footage must be publicly available.

In this illuminating episode, host Dutchie Jessee sits down with Cardinal News reporters Matt Busse and Lisa Rowan to explore the transformative impact of solar apprenticeships in Southwest Virginia. As the region transitions from its coal-centric past to a renewable energy future, these programs are not just about installing panels — they're about installing hope and opportunity.Discover how local partnerships are equipping young people with the skills needed for the burgeoning solar industry, offering pathways to sustainable careers and revitalizing communities. From hands-on training to real-world applications, learn how these initiatives are powering both homes and dreams.Whether you're an energy enthusiast, an advocate for workforce development or simply curious about the future of Appalachia, this episode sheds light on the people and programs driving change under the Virginia sun.

Scott County, Virginia is small, quiet, and close-knit — the kind of place where everyone knows everyone. But lately, a string of rare pediatric cancer cases has left the community shaken and asking: "Is this just a heartbreaking coincidence… or something more?"In this episode of "The Cardinal: News of Virginia", host Dutchie Jessee sits down with Cardinal News healthcare reporter Emily Schabacker, who’s been following the story as it unfolds. The state has launched an investigation, but official answers remain elusive. Meanwhile, families are grappling with fear, grief — and a growing sense of urgency.Emily walks us through what we know, what we don’t know, and how a rural Appalachian community is demanding answers, one heartbreaking story at a time.⚠️ Important Note: The investigation is ongoing, and no direct cause has been identified. This episode discusses the experiences of families and the questions being raised.

Early voting in Virginia's primaries has officially begun, and there's a lot to unpack. In this episode, host Dutchie Jessee sits down with Dwayne Yancey, executive editor of Cardinal News, to delve into the intricacies of the upcoming elections.Drawing from his recent article, "Early voting in the primaries starts today. Here are 10 things to know," Dwayne provides a comprehensive overview of what's at stake, who the key players are, and how the primaries could shape Virginia's political landscape.They'll also explore Cardinal News's updated Voter Guide, which offers detailed information on candidates, their platforms, and the critical issues on the ballot. Whether you're a seasoned voter or casting your ballot for the first time, this conversation aims to equip you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions.Tune in to gain valuable insights and ensure you're prepared for the primaries.

In this episode of "The Cardinal: News of Virginia", host Dutchie Jessee sits down with Southwest Virginia reporter Susan Cameron to revisit one of the most devastating events to hit the region in decades: the catastrophic flooding brought by Hurricane Helene in fall 2024 and the relentless storms that followed in February 2025. Entire neighborhoods were wiped off the map, families displaced, and lives forever changed.But amid the destruction came powerful stories of resilience and hope. Susan shares on-the-ground reporting and emotional interviews with families who lived through the disaster — including the McMurrys, whose home was torn from its foundation with them still inside. One family member clung to a tree for hours; another survived while trapped in a rocking chair carried by the floodwaters.This episode is a powerful reminder of the strength of Southwest Virginia’s communities, the scars left behind by natural disasters, and what recovery looks like months later.

In this eye-opening episode, host Dutchie Jessee sits down with reporter Dean-Paul Stephens to delve into his recent article, "Welcome guests: Churches hosted KKK recruitment a hundred years ago," published on CardinalNews.org. Together, they explore the unsettling history of how, in November 1924, the Ku Klux Klan held recruitment events in churches across Martinsville, Virginia, during a period of resurgence for the Klan. Stephens shares insights from his research, shedding light on how religious institutions, which are typically seen as places of refuge and moral guidance, were co-opted by hate groups to further their agendas. The conversation also touches on the broader societal implications of this history and reflects on how far we've come—and how far we still have to go—in confronting and understanding the complex intersections of faith, community, and racism.Join us as we uncover a chapter of Virginia's past that challenges our perceptions and underscores the importance of remembering history to inform our present and future.

This week on The Cardinal: News of Virginia, host Dutchie Jessee sits down with education reporter Lisa Rowan for a deep dive into how Trump administration policies are reshaping higher education across the Commonwealth. From research funding shifts at major institutions like Virginia Tech, to new hurdles for international students, to growing concerns over DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) programs, we explore the real-world impacts now facing universities. What does it mean for students, faculty and the future of Virginia’s colleges? Tune in for an inside look at the changing landscape.