VA ranks as 5th most independent state in the nation Emma Thomas July 17, 2023 1 min read A recent study finds VA to be one of the nation’s most financially independent states. WFIR’s Emma Thomas reports on how the Commonwealth made the top five: About the Author Emma Thomas Editor View All Posts Share: Continue Reading Previous: Botetourt County surveys remote workers- how can the county support them?Next: Roanoke Valley could be home for part of the USA Cycling headquarters Related Stories 1 min read Blue Ridge Land Conservancy to host 2025 Conservation Celebration on September 21 Web Staff September 12, 2025 1 min read The need for more housing … and the preservation of structures that have historical value. Can those two viewpoints co-exist? Gene Marrano September 11, 2025 1 min read Food Lion, Feeding Southwest Virginia team up to support Manna Ministries pantry Gene Marrano September 11, 2025