The VPM Daily Newscast contains all your Central Virginia news in just 5 to 10 minutes. Episodes are recorded the night before.
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Here’s a recap of the top stories on the morning of Aug. 6, 2024:
Bay vegetation improves for third consecutive year, report says
Reported by VPM News’ Patrick Larsen
The Virginia Institute of Marine Science released its 2023 Submerged Aquatic Vegetation report in July, revealing that SAV expanded for the third year running to nearly 83,000 acres.
SAV refers to rooted underwater plants like grasses — not algae or seaweed. They’re known for having a range of ecosystem benefits, from reducing sedimentation to providing habitat for Bay critters.
“What we're seeing right now is … recovery,” said Chris Patrick, director of the SAV Restoration and Monitoring Program at VIMS.
Chesterfield opens largest middle school in Central Virginia
Reported by VPM News’ Billy Shields
The new Falling Creek Middle School, the largest middle school in Central Virginia, opened for the first time Aug. 1 in Chesterfield County. Principal Quincy Waller hopes the 238,963-square-foot building — which will have enough room for up to 1,800 students — will improve morale for both students and teachers.
“My hope is that we don’t run into situations where we need trailers anymore,” Waller told VPM News. “When we talk about student-to-teacher ratio, where a kid comes in and they’re not just a number, and the teacher can build a relationship … they’ll go the extra mile.”
In other news:
- Rep. Bob Good: a legacy of strong views, strong reactions (Richmond Times-Dispatch)*
- Virginia man threatened to kill Kamala Harris, authorities say (The New York Times)*
- Want to help the birds (and your power bill)? Turn off non-essential lights at night. (Style Weekly)
In case you missed it:
- Miyares takes aim at Democratic fundraising platform ActBlue (Virginia Mercury)
*This outlet utilizes a paywall.
