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Here’s a recap of the top stories on the morning of Wednesday, December 29, 2021:
A Confederate time capsule found 20 feet under the pedestal that once held a statue of Robert E. Lee was opened yesterday. Using mini saws and a small Teflon spatula, Kate Ridgway of the Department of Historic Resources Lab meticulously pried open the lid and one side of the copper box. Inside were 8 books, some papers, and a bullet. Other Items included Confederate money, a bible, a book titled “A Guide to Richmond” and a copy of the Daily Dispatch newspaper from 1868. According to articles from the time, the box was supposed to contain about 60 artifacts. Another time capsule was found in the pedestal on December 17th, possibly placed by the statues’ builders.
The Visual Arts Center of Richmond is filled with pieces of pottery that look like they just left a tattoo shop. Adorned with dragons, flowers and skulls - the artwork makes up the “Of Mud and Blood” exhibit, a collaboration of local potters and tattoo artists. Patrick Larsen has more.
The state is spending more than 700 million dollars to bring broadband access to rural Chesapeake, Suffolk and other localities. As Paul Bibeau from partner station WHRO explains, people have been waiting for this for a long time.
The Virginia Department of Health is reminding families and friends to stay healthy and safe this holiday season – as cases of the Omicron variant continue to rise. The agency suggests getting tested before going to any gatherings – especially if anyone attending is vulnerable or at high risk of getting severely sick from COVID-19. Regardless of vaccination status, people are advised to wear face masks at indoor public spaces. Health officials say these strategies that have been effective in past surges -- can be used against Omicron. Others include getting vaccinated and getting boosted. For details on where to get the vaccine, head to vaccinate.virginia.gov.
