United Way promotes Smart 2 Start application for Pre-K learning Gene Marrano January 31, 2020 1 min read Virginia’s Secretary of Education called Smart 2 Start a “unique program” in the Commonwealth, when United Way of Roanoke Valley unveiled a new wrinkle to its Smart Beginnings at a Roanoke City school this morning. More from WFIR’s Gene Marrano: About the Author Gene Marrano Editor View All Posts Share: Continue Reading Previous: Empire Bakery in Rocky Mount expandingNext: Democratic establishment may not like first caucus outcome Monday Related Stories 2 min read Roanoke considering bringing a casino to the Berglund Special Events Center Gene Marrano October 14, 2025 1 min read GoFest turns 15 this weekend in downtown Roanoke and at Explore Park Gene Marrano October 13, 2025 1 min read Tensions rise in Virginia governor’s race as Earle-Sears, Spanberger debate LGBTQ+ issues Web Staff October 13, 2025