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Here’s a recap of the top stories on the morning of Wednesday, February 2, 2022
Senate Democrats set up vote to block Andrew Wheeler appointment
Reported by VPM News’ Patrick Larsen
Andrew Wheeler could become Virginia’s next Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources. But Democrats on the Senate Privileges and Elections Committee struck his name from a list of appointments made by Gov. Glenn Youngkin. Wheeler has been a controversial pick for the state’s top environmental post, because of his time at the Environmental Protection Agency during the Trump administration. On the other hand, Republican supporters highlight Wheeler’s work to provide Chesapeake Bay cleanup funding. The committee decided yesterday to allow the full Senate to vote on Wheeler’s appointment separately from Youngkin’s other nominations.
Developing Story: Suspected active shooter at Bridgewater College taken into custody
Reported by WMRA’s Randi B. Hagi and VPM News’ Sara McCloskey
A male suspect has been taken into custody after authorities say he shot and killed who campus officers at Bridgewater College campus. A shelter in place order was in effect for about three hours yesterday afternoon as officers searched the campus. The college says Campus Police Officer John Painter and Safety Officer J.J. Jefferson were killed by the armed suspect.
Removal of Richmond’s Confederate monument pedestals begins
Reported by VPM News Intern Meghan McIntyre
The City of Richmond will begin taking down the last remnants of the Confederate monuments this week. Team Henry Enterprises will be overseeing the removal of the statues’ pedestals, which is expected to cost more than $1-point-5 million dollars. The group will also remove the A.P. Hill monument. City officials say the work could last up to two months. The dismantled monuments will be given to the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia.
In Other News:
Bill tests liability of bars and restaurants in alcohol-related injuries and death - VPM
Republicans seek to halt Virginia’s minimum wage increase – VPM
City Council adopts City Center plan that starts with Coliseum demolition – Richmond BizSense
Parents of students with disabilities sue Youngkin in federal court over masks-optional order – Richmond Times-Dispatch
In Case You Missed It:
The final countdown to Washington's new football name begins – Richmond Times-Dispatch
Shenandoah National Park releases Old Rag day-use tickets
Bill granting immunity to VMI sexual assault victims fails to advance – The Washington Post
