Sparks fly at Mayoral debate Gene Marrano October 23, 2020 1 min read With less than two weeks before election day there were some sparks flying at yesterday’s Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce Forum as incumbent Mayor Sherman Lea traded jabs with former longtime Mayor David Bowers. More from WFIR’s Gene Marrano: About the Author Gene Marrano Editor View All Posts Share: Continue Reading Previous: William & Mary reverses course on some sports cutbacksNext: 5th District Democrat promises to put people over party if elected Related Stories 2 min read Roanoke tourism hits record high, lowering resident tax burden Ian Price October 7, 2025 1 min read Latest Wason Center survey of likely voters shows statewide Democratic ticket still leads for Gov.-Lt. Gov.-AG Gene Marrano October 6, 2025 1 min read Roanoke Symphony Orchestra opens its new season with a Disco pops concert – and Beethoven’s outdoor musings Gene Marrano October 6, 2025