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 2 min read I-81 shooting incident in Botetourt County under investigation Web Staff October 10, 2025 1 min read Branch Group to host 4th annual GIRL Construction Experience tomorrow Web Staff October 10, 2025 1 min read Luke Combs scheduled to perform in Charlottesville in April Clark Palmer October 9, 2025