(WSLS 10) - The trial for Ashley White begins in Pulaski County today. She's charged with child abuse and neglect after her five year old son Noah Thomas was found dead in a septic tank in March. Earlier this week, the judge in the case decided there was too much prejudice in the county to give White a fair jury trial. Both the prosecution and defense agreed to a bench trial, where the judge hears arguments and renders a decision.
The Washington and Lee Mock Political convention kicks off this afternoon. The "Mock Con" nominates the ticket for the party that is out of power. More than 1,500 Washington and Lee students will take part as delegates. The event draws many big political names, this year including former Vice President Dick Cheney, Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, political commentator Ann Coulter and Virginia Congressman Bob Goodlatte. The convention has correctly predicted the presidential nominees in 19 of the last 25 presidential elections, dating back to 1908.
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A new mural will be unveiled today in the Grand Lobby of the Moss Arts Center in Blacksburg. You can see the new art plus hear from the artist at an unveiling event tonight starting at 5:30.
Patrick Henry Community College holds an information session tonight starting at 5:30 about its short term training programs. These fields of study are designed to quickly give students the skills needed to help employers fill open positions. Programs include electrical, food service, advanced film manufacturing and others.
The Virginia Children's Engineering Council holds its annual convention in Roanoke starting today. Eight hundred PreK-5th grade teachers will attend hands-on workshops showing STEM-based instructional practices. The convention wraps up on Friday.
Small businesses in Martinsville and Henry County will get together for a matchmaking event. The Economic Development Office hopes this event will increase local business to business partnerships.
Candidates running for Roanoke City Council and mayor will answer question tonight about their vision for the city. There are nine candidates running for three council seats with two candidates running for mayor. The Council Forum beings at 6:30 tonight at Center in the Square followed at 7:30 by the mayoral forum.
The Salem High School Football Team receives a national honor tonight. The Army National Guard presents its national ranking trophy to the team as part of the 11th annual MaxPreps Tour of Champions. The honor comes after the team beat Lake Taylor in the Virginia 4A state championship. Salem finished number 86 in the final rankings and is one of 50 schools being honored this year.