Archive for July, 2014
Cantor’s Farewell Speech
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Virginia's News on July 31, 2014
Jonnie Williams Testifies at Corruption Trial
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Daily Capitol News Updates on July 31, 2014
Day four of the corruption trial of former Governor Bob McDonnell and his wife, Maureen, picked up where it left off the previous day—with the prosecution’s star witness, Jonnie Williams. As Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, the former Star Scientific CEO detailed the gifts and loans he provided to the former first family—and the point where he knew he believed he was crossing ethical and legal lines.
Combating Campus Sexual Assaults
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Virginia's News on July 30, 2014
Virginia Democratic Senator Mark Warner helped introduce a bill today to combat the high rates of sexual assaults on college campuses. Capitol Hill reporter Matt Laslo has the story.
CEO’s Assistant Testifies in Corruption Trial
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Daily Capitol News Updates on July 30, 2014
Day three in the trial of former Governor Bob McDonnell and his wife, Maureen, opened up with testimony from former Star Scientific CEO Jonnie Williams’ assistant, Jerri Fulkerson.
As Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, she testified that not only did the former first couple accept lavish gifts from her boss, but their children also received favors.
Opening Statements
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Daily Capitol News Updates on July 29, 2014
The second day of the federal corruption trial of former Governor Bob McDonnell and his wife, Maureen, began with instructions to the jury that they must be convinced beyond a reasonable doubt by the evidence—and not by leaks or media accounts. Prosecutor Jessica Aber recounted the indictment’s theory that the McDonnells exchanged official acts for gifts and loans from former Star Scientific CEO Jonnie Williams. But as Virginia Public Radio’s Anne Marie Morgan reports, the bombshells hit when the couple’s defense attorneys spoke.
Jury Selection Begins in McDonnell Corruption Trial
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Daily Capitol News Updates on July 28, 2014
Jury selection began today in the federal corruption trial of former Governor Bob McDonnell and his wife, Maureen. Prosecutors allege that the former first couple promoted Star Scientific’s products in exchange for gifts and mortgage loans from the company’s former CEO, Jonnie Williams. But as Virginia Public Radio’s Anne Marie Morgan reports, the first step on Monday was to try and choose a fair and impartial jury.
Court Strikes Down VA’s Ban on Same-Sex Marriage
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Virginia's News on July 28, 2014
VA Lawmakers Weigh in on the GOP’s ACA Lawsuit
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Virginia's News on July 28, 2014
VaNews for 07.28.14
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in VaNews from VPAP on July 28, 2014
A Virginia town is exploring its options for regulating fortune telling…and the state has come up with a new idea for moving more people into farming. Those have been among the most read stories over the past week at the Virginia Public Access Project’s VaNews link on vpap.org. Fred Echols reports.
Candidates Face Off
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Virginia's News on July 27, 2014
Libertarian Senate Candidate Speaks Out
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Virginia's News on July 27, 2014
Sarvis Not Invited to Debate
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Virginia's News on July 25, 2014
The political pundits will be keeping a watchful eye over this weekend’s events at the Greenbrier Resort in West Virginia, where Democratic U.S. Senator Mark Warner and his GOP rival, Ed Gillespie, square off in a Virginia Bar Association-sponsored debate. But also watching from the outside is their Libertarian opponent, Robert Sarvis, who once again, was not invited to the dance. Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil examines the question asked by many: Why?
Medical Expenses & Tax Breaks
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Daily Capitol News Updates on July 24, 2014
With people still adjusting to their insurance policies and premiums under the Affordable Care Act, now might not be the ideal time to tell Virginians that sales taxes associated with some health procedures, prescriptions, and even Band Aids could be passed on to them. But that was one of the issues the Joint Subcommittee to Evaluate Tax Preferences has examined. Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil has more.
Former Governor’s Trial Begins Monday
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Virginia's News on July 24, 2014
The federal corruption trial of former Governor Bob McDonnell and his wife, Maureen, begins on Monday. Federal prosecutors allege the former first couple performed official acts to promote Star Scientific’s products in exchange for roughly $165,000 in gifts and loans from its ex-CEO, Jonnie Williams—then failed to disclose most of those gifts. McDonnell says he never made such an agreement–and the company received NO quid pro quo. Virginia Public Radio’s Anne Marie Morgan takes a closer look.
Kids Count Survey Results
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Daily Capitol News Updates on July 24, 2014
The Annie E. Casey Foundation has just released its 25th annual Kids Count survey. And while Virginia has made progress in the areas of education and overall health, it still suggests that more children are living in impoverished homes and lack the community make-up or family foundation to help increase their likelihood of living successful lives. Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil explains.
VA Lawmakers Debate Border Crisis
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Virginia's News on July 24, 2014
Lawmakers in the region are divided over how to deal with the president’s request for emergency money to deal with the flood of unaccompanied minors. Capitol Hill reporter Matt Laslo has the story.
Albemarle County Neighbors React to Death Investigation
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Virginia's News on July 22, 2014
Police in Albemarle County are waiting for results from the state’s crime lab – hoping to learn whether remains found over the weekend are those of missing UVA student Hannah Graham. Sandy Hausman reports on the discovery and what it may mean for the only suspect in the case – Jesse Matthew, Jr.
Mental Health Initiative Moves Forward
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Daily Capitol News Updates on July 22, 2014
A new General Assembly panel is vowing to conduct a thorough review of Virginia’s mental health system, while not shielding any “sacred cows” in the process. The Joint Subcommittee to Study Mental Health Services in the 21st Century held its inaugural meeting… and began by examining how the Commonwealth’s system is faring—then comparing it to other states. Members already seem determined to make reforms. Anne Marie Morgan reports.
Tale of Two Flags: Art Sparks Dialogue
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Richmond Confronts Past & Present, Virginia's News on July 21, 2014
At the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond, an exhibit called “Posing Beauty” is in its final week.The show features a piece by an African American depicting the confederate and American flags woven in African hair. Just outside the museum, demonstrators with real confederate flags are far from wrapping up their protest of the VMFA where a pair of confederate flags were removed from the grounds. The artist and the flaggers share a mission: to remind the public of the importance of their heritage. May-Lily Lee reports. (July 21, 2014)
VaNews for 07.21.14
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in VaNews from VPAP on July 21, 2014
With parts of Hampton Roads facing a rising sea level and stronger Atlantic storms one idea being talked about is a flood wall across the lower Chesapeake Bay…and someone in Portsmouth stirred things up when they decided to rejuvenate a sign at a subdivision entrance. Those are among the most read stories over the past week on the Virginia Public Access Project’s VaNews link at vpap.org. Fred Echols reports.
Proposal to Slash EPA Budget
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Virginia's News on July 21, 2014
Virginia 529 College Savings
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Daily Capitol News Updates on July 17, 2014
While parents look for more affordable ways to send their kids to college, many are seeking information about the Virginia 529 College Savings Plan. As Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, a new briefing by the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission suggests that the state’s Plan may be one of the most viable and sustainable options.
New Book Offers History of the Virginia Education Association
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Virginia's News on July 16, 2014
Virginia Retirement System
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Daily Capitol News Updates on July 14, 2014
The return on Virginia Retirement System investments fell 21 percent in 2009—but the pension fund has now rebounded and is exceeding expectations. That’s the message delivered by VRS officials to state lawmakers. And as Virginia Public Radio’s Anne Marie Morgan reports, all are cautiously optimistic that the fund’s health will keep improving.
Hobby Lobby Case Pushes Legislation
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Virginia's News on July 14, 2014
Internet Sales Tax Debate
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Daily Capitol News Updates on July 14, 2014
Another national debate is taking center stage in Virginia—this time over a potential Internet sales tax. And as Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, one group that’s opposed to out-of-state e-commerce taxation and the federal Marketplace Fairness Act says they have overwhelming proof that Virginians don’t want it.
VaNews for 07.14.14
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in VaNews from VPAP on July 14, 2014
A Virginia County is trying to find out what happened to seven thousand people its police have identified as undocumented over the past few years…and organizers of a Fourth of July demonstration in Richmond in favor of gun owners rights went ahead with their plan even when no one answered their call for support. Fred Echols reports.
Immigration Reform: Partisan Sniping
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Virginia's News on July 11, 2014
Now that immigration reform has essentially been pulled from the docket during this legislative session Virginia lawmakers are bracing for the impact on the state’s economy – as some lawmakers brace for what executive actions President Obama prepares to take. Capitol Hill reporter Matt Laslo has the details.
Taking a Chance on New Theater
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Virginia's News on July 10, 2014
A small, colonial-era town in Appalachia may not seem the most likely venue to watch cutting-edge contemporary theater. But every summer, since 1991, Shepherdstown, West Virginia has been a hot-bed of new American plays. Rebecca Sheir checked in on rehearsals for the Contemporary American Theater Festival at Shepherd University, which opens July 11th.
Boosting Biotech & Generating Jobs
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Daily Capitol News Updates on July 10, 2014
Virginia, no longer ranked as the best state to do business, still has a strong economic footing, especially in Northern Virginia. But because the state is so heavily reliant on defense contracts which have recently been on the federal chopping block, Governor McAuliffe is looking to strengthen the state’s economy through other avenues. More from Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil.
Legislative Resignations
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Daily Capitol News Updates on July 8, 2014
In June, four state lawmakers unexpectedly resigned their seats in the General Assembly. While legislative retirements are not unusual, four Democrats in one month calling it quits before their terms expire is not the norm—and left many to wonder why. But as Virginia Public Radio’s Anne Marie Morgan reports, the answer may be as simple as timing and opportunity.
Special elections will be held on August 19th for the vacant seats that were held by Puckett, Howell, and Brink.
New Laws: Part 5 of 5
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Daily Capitol News Updates on July 8, 2014
As Virginians celebrate American independence this weekend, many can’t help but think about our veterans past and present—as well as the rights and nation that they have defended. So as we continue our series on new state laws that just took effect, Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports on one that directly impacts those who have served overseas … another that addresses state energy resources … and a third that affects the Commonwealth’s democratic process.
New Laws: Part 4 of 5
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Virginia's News on July 8, 2014
New Laws: Part 3 of 5
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Virginia's News on July 8, 2014
The message from Virginia lawmakers to “patent trolls” is: If they plan to make a claim of patent infringement, they had better be able to prove it—and answer to the Attorney General’s office if their claim is bogus. It’s one of the new state laws that Governor McAuliffe ceremonially signed. And as Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil reports, the Governor believes such laws will inspire MORE innovation—and not suppress it.
VaNews for 07.07.14
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in VaNews from VPAP on July 8, 2014
Starting this month Virginians who use a certain type of two-wheeled transportation are no longer allowed to cruise without a title and license plate…and if you think nobody saw the downfall of Eric Cantor coming, think again. Those are among the most read stories recently on the Virginia Public Access Project’s VaNews link at vpap.org. Fred Echols reports.
Full Disclosure: Clutter Cleaner Matt Paxton
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Virginia's News on July 2, 2014
National business correspondent Roben Farzad has launched a new radio podcast recorded in Richmond. The program is called Full Disclosure, and in the months ahead you’ll hear some content from the program, as we share his weekly effort to translate the language of finance and investing. The theme of this week’s program? Bending, Not Breaking.
Farzad talks with Richmond entrepreneur Matt Paxton. He’s best known for his business Clutter Cleaner, featured on the reality TV show Hoarders. But it was a long climb to success for Paxton. While working at the Federal Reserve after college, he fell into gambling. In 1999 he was $40,000 dollars in debt to a bookie. He was beaten up, and left in the ditch outside a casino. He headed home to Virginia.
Paxton also cleaned out crime scenes and foreclosed homes for a decade to pay off maxed-out credit cards at a 22-percent interest rate… he considers it a form of indentured servitude. But it all led to a successful national business and television show.
You can hear the full story of Paxton’s failure and redemption, on Roben Farzad’s Full Disclosure.
Delegate Morrissey Calls Allegations Baseless
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Daily Capitol News Updates on July 2, 2014
Henrico Delegate Joe Morrissey says he will not resign his seat in the General Assembly following this week’s indictment that stems from his relationship with a teenager. He made the statement after a fellow Democrat, Delegate Mark Keam, had called on Morrissey to step down. Virginia Public Radio’s Tommie McNeil has more details from the State Capitol.
More New Laws: Part 2
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Daily Capitol News Updates on July 2, 2014
While the state budget and Medicaid expansion dominated news coverage of the General Assembly this year, lawmakers also worked on a wide array of other issues. In Part Two of our series on state laws that take effect this week, Virginia Public Radio’s Anne Marie Morgan reports on some of the new public safety and ethics laws—including a few arising from several well-publicized cases.
Rail Safety: Emergency Workers Still in the Dark
Posted by Virginia Public Radio in Virginia's News on July 1, 2014
In just over a year, North America has seen a dozen serious accidents involving trains that derailed while carrying flammable crude oil. One of those accidents, in Lynchburg, caused a massive fire and oil spill. In most cases, fire departments didn’t know what they were dealing with, since railroads have kept that information secret, but the federal government is now requiring them to inform states when trains of 35 cars or more, carrying oil from North Dakota or Montana, are coming through. The public, however, is not entitled to know, and fire departments say they’re still in the dark, as Sandy Hausman reports.