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Here’s a recap of the top stories on the morning of Thursday, July 7, 2022
Alleged mass shooting attempt on July Fourth in Richmond prevented
Reported by VPM News’ Patrick Larsen
Richmond Police say two people have been arrested who allegedly planned to carry out a mass shooting on the Fourth of July. During a press conference Wednesday, Police Chief Gerald Smith told reporters that a tip from a resident prevented a plot to harm people at the Dogwood Dell fireworks celebration. Officers also seized two assault rifles and more than 200 rounds of ammunition.
Virginia DMV launches new way to save money for drivers who use less gas
Reported by WHRO News’ Katherine Hafner
The new option is called the Mileage Choice Program. It’s open to people who drive electric, hybrid or fuel-efficient vehicles. Those drivers usually pay a special fee when they register or renew their car. That’s to make sure they’re contributing just as much to fund state transportation as people who must pay gas taxes more often. The new program would let fuel-efficient and electric vehicle owners pay per mile they drive instead of a lump sum.
Anthony Belotti began advocating for trans students as a teen
Reported by VPM News’ Meg Schiffres
When Anthony Belotti was 16, they began their career in activism by advocating for protections for transgender students in their hometown of Stafford County. The policies Belotti fought for the school board to pass still protect transgender students in the district today.
In Other News:
Monument Avenue projectionists head to Belle Isle this weekend with new public art project: Recontextualizing Richmond – Richmond Times-Dispatch
Portsmouth lawmaker Louise Lucas receives additional security after receiving racist threats – Virginian-Pilot
Judge approves transfer of all 4,000 remaining beagles at breeding facility to shelters for adoption – WRIC
In Case You Missed It:
In clash over VMI’s future, Youngkin appoints conservatives to board - Washington Post
Youngkin appoints Wheeler to head new Office of Regulatory Management – Virginia Mercury
Fort Lee shifts main gate status from Sisisky Boulevard to Lee Avenue – The Progress-Index