Today's News

RICHMOND — Both houses of the Virginia General Assembly approved budget proposals last week that include funding to open a long-delayed state prison in Grayson County.
The Virginia Senate voted 36-4 to pass its budget plan, which includes Gov. Bob McDonnell’s proposal for $14.3 million to open the River North Correctional Facility near Independence, which was completed in 2010 and then mothballed because the state could not afford to operate it.

HILLSVILLE — A motion relating to the natural gas service line approved Feb. 4 by the Carroll Industrial Authority gives a hint to the new utility’s future.
The IDA took action in 2012 to provide natural gas service to the Mohawk plant after years of inaction by private companies, and now the effort only lacks about 3,000 linear feet from making that connection.

By SHAINA STOCKTON, Staff
As Galax Elementary students flooded the hallways of the school on the way to their respective classrooms, a protective figure stood amongst them, keeping a safe watch.
The school’s new student resource officer Fred Bobbitt offered friendly greetings to the students as they walked by, receiving toothy smiles and emphatic waves in return.
“I’m willing to bet that you’ve gotten more hugs this week than you’ve ever had,” laughed Principal Brian Stuart.

HILLSVILLE — County officials have mentioned concerns about safety in Carroll Public Schools in the wake of the mass shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary in Newtown, Conn., so what new measures are under consideration?
School leaders have requested $4.45 million under the capital improvement project line item from the Carroll County supervisors for fiscal year 2013-2014.
Most of that, if budgeted, would get earmarked for the replacing the aging heating and air conditioning system at Carroll County High School.