News

DAVIS SWEEPS COUNTY PRECINCTS IN TUESDAY'S VOTE

November 9, 2023 Wayne Davis won every precinct in his bid for Henry County Sheriff. He won the most votes overall among candidates in races with opposition, garnering 73.86 percent of the vote, according to unofficial results. Read More

DEMOCRATS TAKE BACK THE HOUSE, KEEP MAJORITY IN THE STATE SENATE

November 8, 2023 The Democratic victories in both chambers deny Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin a legislative trifecta that would have allowed him to promptly enact his policy agenda. Tuesday’s results also throw into question Youngkin’s presidential aspirations. Read More

TWO CHALLENGERS UNSEAT INCUMBENTS ON PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

November 8, 2023 New faces will join the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors next year after two challengers unseated incumbents in Tuesday's election, according to unofficial returns. Read More

2023 ELECTIONS: THESE ARE YOUR VIRGINIA HOUSE OF DELEGATES WINNERS

November 7, 2023 These are your Virginia House of Delegates winners. Read More

2023 ELECTIONS: KNOW THE VIRGINIA HOUSE OF DELEGATES CANDIDATES ON YOUR BALLOT

November 7, 2023 These are the House of Delegates candidates on your ballot for the 2023 elections happening in the ABC13 viewing area. Read More

ELECTION ROUNDUP: HENRY COUNTY AWASH IN CONTESTED RACES

November 2, 2023 Voters in Henry County will have 16 elected offices to decide upon in this year’s election and nine of them are contested. Read More

EARLY VOTING TRENDING LOWER IN PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY

October 31, 2023 So far, fewer people in Pittsylvania County have elected to vote early in the upcoming election. Read More

PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD ASKS LAWMAKERS TO LOOSEN UP ON ATTENDANCE PUSH

October 23, 2023 Members of the Pittsylvania County School Board urged Dan River Region lawmakers to loosen the ties between attendance and accreditation at a Friday morning legislative meeting. Read More

MARSHALL HONORED AT PRIVATE GOP EVENT TUESDAY

October 20, 2023 Candidates for local and state offices and city and county officials were among those paying homage Tuesday to Del. Danny Marshall for his 22 years of service to Martinsville and Henry County. Read More

DELEGATE, PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY SUPERVISORS HONOR BERT DODSON JR.

September 23, 2023 Delegate Les Adams joined members of the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday evening to honor Bert Dodson Jr. Read More

MARTIN'S EFFORTS COMMENDED BY STATE

September 19, 2023 Teddy D. Martin II, chairman of the Henry County School Boards Association (VSBA), was recently honored... Read More

CANDIDATES IN HENRY COUNTY PARTICIPATE IN FORUM

September 19, 2023 A candidate’s forum that included 16 candidates for various offices in Henry County, was held at Spencer-Penn Centre in Spencer on a rainy Sunday afternoon. Del. Les Adams (R-Chatham) moderated the event. Read More

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

September 17, 2023 Henry County Candidates Forum: 3 p.m., Spencer-Penn Centre, 475 Spencer-Penn Road, Spencer. Free and open to the public, featuring Henry County candidates for sheriff, treasurer, school board, and more. Meet and greet held during intermission and after the event. Moderated by Del. Les Adams, R-Chatham. Read More

CALENDAR: MARTINSVILLE-AREA EVENTS SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2023

September 17, 2023 Henry County Candidates Forum: 3 p.m., Spencer-Penn Centre, 475 Spencer-Penn Road, Spencer. Free and open to the public, featuring Henry County candidates for sheriff, treasurer, school board, and more. Meet and greet held during intermission and after the event. Moderated by Del. Les Adams (R-Chatham). Read More

FREE UNCLE HENRY'S FAVORITES CONCERT AT HUMPBACK ROCKS; MORE...

September 14, 2023 Here are some of the top events around Southwest and Southside for the coming week. Read More

ANNOUNCEMENT REPRESENTS 'PROMISE TO BUILD A BETTER FUTURE'

September 1, 2023 State and local representatives and others gathered Wednesday along with officials from Press Glass Inc., the largest independent glass fabricator in Europe, to hear an announcement that the company will invest $155.2 million to expand at the Commonwealth Crossing Industrial Park in Henry County. Read More

SEN. SUROVELL MAY BE FROM FAIRFAX COUNTY BUT HAS TIES TO ROANOKE'S FAMOUS STAR

August 28, 2023 If you follow Virginia politics — and if you’re reading this column I assume you do — then you’ve probably seen the name Scott Surovell pop up with increasing frequency over the years. Read More

VIRGINIA FARM BUREAU AGPAC ENDORSES GOP CANDIDATES

August 24, 2023 Virginia Farm Bureau Federation AgPAC, Farm Bureau’s political action committee, recently announced its endorsement of 32 candidates for the Virginia Senate and 69 candidates for the Virginia House of Delegates. Read More

FRANK FOX EXPLAINS WHY PROPOSED 58 WEST AXTON DEVELOPMENT IS CRITICAL FOR MEGA PARK AND PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY ECONOMIC GROWTH

August 14, 2023 This week there will be a key zoning vote at the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors meeting over zoning changes for the proposed 58 mixed used development. Read More

COUNTERING INSULTS WITH HARD FACTS

August 10, 2023 I was delighted to read my friend, Will Pace’s hearty letter! I did not realize that I am wont to make “claims of wrongdoing but [fail] to provide any evidence whatsoever to back up [my] claims.” Read More

‘NO EVIDENCE OF WRONGDOING:’ GOP CHAIR RESPONDS TO LETTERS

August 2, 2023 As Chairman of the Pittsylvania County Republican Committee, I feel compelled to reply to the July 19 letter from Pittsylvania County Democrat Chair Roy Ford and the July 26 letter from Richard Dixon. Read More

LES ADAMS' LEGISLATIVE ASSISTANT NAMED NEW COUNTY VOTER REGISTRAR

July 20, 2023 In a 2-1 vote, the Pittsylvania County Electoral Board last week named Shani Shorter as General Registrar. Read More

PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY ELECTORAL BOARD HIRES NEW REGISTRAR

July 13, 2023 In a 2-1 vote, the Pittsylvania County Electoral Board today named Shani Shorter as General Registrar. Read More

SOME VOTERS ARE 'TRAPPED' IN DISTRICTS DOMINATED BY THE OTHER PARTY. HERE ARE SOME EXAMPLES

July 12, 2023 Earlier this year, I wrote a column about how many rural legislative districts, while growing in size population-wise, have shrunk in size geographically because the current maps were drawn by two court-appointed “special masters,” not a political party bent on gerrymandering to achieve certain political outcomes. Read More

HOMETOWN LAVENDER FARM OPENS TO PUBLIC

July 7, 2023 In 2007, Terri Dalton, of Gretna, began studying the health benefits and properties that lavender possesses, such as natural calming and healing of rashes or bug bites. Read More

ARLENE POINDEXTER DAVIS DAY TO BE CELEBRATED IN PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY

June 28, 2023 The Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors (BOS) declared a new county holiday in honor of a local woman and appointed another to fill the vacant Dan River district seat through the end of the year during its regular business meeting on Tuesday, June 20. Read More

PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY DECLARES JULY 11 AS ARLENE POINDEXTER DAVIS DAY

June 21, 2023 CHATHAM, VA – Pittsylvania County is honored to have a resident who spent nearly three decades working in the White House, serving under seven different U.S. presidents. Read More

YOUNGKIN PUTS HIS POLITICAL CAPITAL DOWN

June 13, 2023 The Governor has now made 66 endorsements this cycle including 10 in contested nominations. Read More

3 SEEK GOP NOMINATION IN CONVENTION SATURDAY FOR SOUTHSIDE HOUSE SEAT

May 18, 2023 Former U.S. Rep. Tom Garrett, seeking return to elected office, faces attorney Kevin Bailey and small-business owner Jennie Wood. Read More

LOCAL LEGISLATORS SUMMARIZE WORK IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY THIS YEAR

May 17, 2023 Danville and Pittsylvania County legislators, Sen. Frank Ruff and Delegates Danny Marshall Les Adams, took some time May 10 to brief local civic and business leaders on the 2023 General Assembly. Read More

VIRGINIA LAWMAKERS GIVE LEGISLATIVE UPDATE TO DANVILLE AND PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY LEADERS

May 10, 2023 Virginia lawmakers joined city and county leaders Wednesday morning for a legislative update. Read More

DAN-PITTS CHAMBER TO HOST LEGISLATIVE BREAKFAST

April 20, 2023 The Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce invites members and future members to hear from the region’s legislators on the 2023 session of the Virginia General Assembly on Wednesday, May 10 from 7:30-9:00 a.m. Read More

CHAMBER TO HOST LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

2023 VIRGINIA GENERAL ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS: SOUTHWEST AND SOUTHSIDE

April 20, 2023 Election Day seems like a long way off, but some races will be decided in party conventions during May and June or in the June 20 primary. Read More

DAN RIVER REGIOINAL LEGISLATIVE LEADERS TO SPEAK AT CHAMBER BREAKFAST

April 19, 2023 Dan River Regional legislative leaders will give their insights on this year’s General Assembly session at a breakfast event next month. Read More

GOVERNOR GLENN YOUNGKIN ANNOUNCES ADDITIONAL ADMINISTRATION AND BOARD APPOINTMENTS

April 15, 2023 Governor Glenn Youngkin Announces Additional Administration and Board Appointments. Read More

POSSIBLE RECORD NUMBER OF CIRCUIT COURT COURT CLERK CANDIDATES FOR NOV. 7

April 14, 2023 There are currently six individuals who have filed the necessary paperwork to run for the job of Circuit Court clerk in Pittsylvania County, as incumbent Mark Scarce has announced he will retire at the end of the year. Read More

EVENT CONNECTS SOLAR COMPANIES, CONTRACTORS

March 30, 2023 Connecting solar developers with local businesses and contractors who can reap the benefits of being involved in those projects was the aim of a Tuesday event hosted by the South Central Virginia Business Alliance (SCVBA). Read More

FIREARM TAX CREDIT, JURY DUTY PAY AND MORE: GOV. GLENN YOUNGKIN SIGNS DOZENS OF BILLS INTO LAW

March 23, 2023 Gov. Glenn Youngkin signed dozens of bills into law this week, primarily less controversial measures that received broad bipartisan support in the General Assembly. Read More

THREE LOCAL DELEGATES SCORE IN TOP 25 AMONG COLLEAGUES PASSING LEGISLATION IN 2023 SESSION

March 2, 2023 When it comes to "batting averages" in the General Assembly, southern Chesterfield County's House of Delegates representative swung one of the hottest bats in the chamber for getting sponsored legislation passed, the Virginia Public Access Project said Thursday. Read More

THE SIDE OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY THAT THE PUBLIC DOESN'T OFTEN SEE

February 25, 2023 Most of us had better things to do Saturday than watch some boring government meeting. Read More

GENERAL ASSEMBLY ADJOURNS WITHOUT A BUDGET DEAL

February 25, 2023 RICHMOND – The Virginia General Assembly on Saturday adjourned its regular 2023 session without a deal on amending the state’s biennial budget after lawmakers failed to agree on about $1 billion in additional tax relief legislation that Gov. Glenn Youngkin had asked for. Read More

THREE INTERESTING BILLS: SELLING CHILDREN, 'SWATTING' PENALTIES AND REGULATING VAPE PRODUCTS

February 24, 2023 This bill from Del. Mike Cherry, R-Colonial Heights, would create a Class 5 felony for attempting to gain control or custody of a child by purchasing them. This would also apply to parents or legal guardians who sell their child. Read More

RUNNING OUT OF TIME: LIFE AND DEATH OF BILLS IN THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY

February 24, 2023 Sometimes, what a legislator thinks is a bright idea for a new law just runs out of time at the Virginia General Assembly. Read More

WHAT LEGISLATORS ARE ASKING FOR, PART 2

February 15, 2023 The great British philosophers collectively known as The Kinks advised “give the people what they want.” Has there ever been a better musical expression of the free market? Of course, they also advised us to be careful about whom we pick up at a club down in old Soho, but I digress. Read More

BILL TO SET THC LEGAL LIMIT FOR DRIVERS IN VIRGINIA, ALLOW POLICE TO USE ROADSIDE SALIVA TESTS DIES

February 13, 2023 RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — A bill to again allow police to search vehicles without a warrant in some cases if they smell marijuana, set a THC limit for drivers and make way for the use of roadside saliva tests in Virginia died in a state Senate committee. Read More

SENATE PANEL KILLS HOUSE CRIME BILLS, INCLUDING YOUNGKIN PRIORITY

February 13, 2023 State Senate gatekeepers on Monday summarily killed a series of House of Delegates bills aimed at expanding police powers and adding new criminal offenses to the statute book; among them was a bill that represented Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s top criminal justice priority. Read More

STATS FROM GENERAL ASSEMBLY MIDPOINT AND WHAT ISSUES ARE AHEAD

February 12, 2023 Lawmakers crossed the midpoint of the General Assembly session earlier this week. Read More

GENERAL ASSEMBLY MIDPOINT OFFERS UP INTERESTING STATS - MORE ISSUES LAY AHEAD

February 10, 2023 Lawmakers crossed the midpoint of the General Assembly session earlier this week. Almost 600 bills in the House and over 500 in the Senate advanced, and only one bill passed both chambers by Feb. 7. Read More

NUMEROUS SEATS UP FOR GRABS FOR NOVEMBER ELECTION IN PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY

February 10, 2023 The ballot in Pittsylvania County will be long this November as numerous seats are up for grabs, to include four on the Board of Supervisors along with a fifth due to a special election. Read More

HOUSE BILLS FROM ROANOKE, NEW RIVER DELEGATES STILL ALIVE AT LEGISLATURE'S HALFWAY POINT

February 9, 2023 Halfway through state lawmakers’ annual session in Richmond, the 100-member House of Delegates passed a few more than half of the 1,136 bills that were introduced this winter, statistics show. Read More

BILL TO BAR STATE DEALINGS WITH FOREIGN ADVERSARIES PASSES HOUSE

February 3, 2023 A bill that picks up Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s opposition to dealing with China won approval in the House of Delegates on Friday — initially on an essentially party-line vote but on second thought, with a second vote, unanimously. Read More

HERE'S WHAT OUR LEGISLATORS ARE ASKING FOR IN THE STATE BUDGET

February 1, 2023 Follow the money, they say. Before we can do that, we should first follow the requests for money. Read More

HOUSE PANEL EXPANDS LEGISLATIVE ROLE IN TRANSPORTATION FUNDING UNDER YOUNGKIN PLAN

January 31, 2023 RICHMOND — The General Assembly is reminding Gov. Glenn Youngkin about the balance of power in Virginia government by making sure it has a larger role in deciding how to spend money from a transportation fund to support economic development projects. Read More

HOUSE PANEL EXPANDS LEGISLATIVE ROLE IN TRANSPORTATION FUNDING UNDER YOUNGKIN PLAN

ALLY COMPROMISES ON GOVERNOR'S PUSH FOR $200M IN TRANSPORTATION FUNDS

January 26, 2023 A powerful legislative ally of Gov. Glenn Youngkin has stepped back on a proposal that would have diverted up to $100 million each year in state transportation revenue into a fund that the governor would control for grants to boost economic development projects, while removing legislative oversight and a cap on the size of grants. Read More

AFTER LOST DEAL, BERRY HILL MOVES FORWARD

January 26, 2023 While it is unclear if Virginia — and more specifically — the Berry Hill mega site — was the final selection for a Ford Co. battery plant, nevertheless, local leaders and residents were dismayed at the possible loss of a future large employer. Read More

ADAMS FILES BILLS ON PROTESTS, UNEMPLOYMENT FRAUD

January 20, 2023 Del. Les Adams (R-16) — whose district includes the northern parts of Pittsylvania County to Blairs and Keeling and extends east to Martinsville and Henry in Henry County — has filed a number of bills across a variety of issues, including protests at the homes of judges and unemployment fraud. Read More

ROANOKE, NEW RIVER VALLEYS DELEGATES' BILLS COVER EDUCATION, GUNS, MARIJUANA AND MORE

January 12, 2023 State delegates filed more than 1,000 bills and resolutions for the 45-day legislative session that started Wednesday, including several dozen ideas carried to Richmond by local legislators from the Roanoke and New River valleys. Read More

AMTHOR ANNOUNCES $30 MILLION EXPANSION IN GRETNA

December 29, 2022 Amthor International, one of the nation's largest manufacturers of truck-mounted tanks, this week announced a $30 million expansion at its Gretna headquarters. Read More

DEMAND DRIVES GROWTH AS GRETNA'S AMTHOR ANNOUNCES $30 MILLION EXPANSION, NEW JOBS FOR TRUCK-TANK PRODUCTION PLANT

December 28, 2022 Pittsylvania County officials and community leaders joined Amthor representatives to celebrate the announcement made Wednesday at the company’s truck-tank production facility in Gretna. Read More

DEMAND DRIVES GROWTH AS GRETNA'S AMTHOR ANNOUNCES $30 MILLION EXPANSION, NEW JOBS FOR TRUCK-TANK PRODUCTION PLANT

TWO NEW MEMBERS INDUCTED DURING WINTER MUSTER

December 16, 2022 The Colonel George Waller Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution held their winter muster on December 3, at the Martinsville-Henry County Heritage Center and Museum. Read More

PROPOSED CHANGES TO VIRGINIA'S MARIJUANA LAW HEADED TO GENERAL ASSEMBLY - WHILE OTHER CONTROVERSIAL ONES ARE NOT

December 6, 2022 The Virginia State Crime Commission voted this week to recommend several changes in law stemming from the state’s move to marijuana legalization two years ago. Read More

CRIME COMMISSION SPLIT ON DRUGGED DRIVING MEASURES

December 5, 2022 The Virginia Crime Commission recommended a handful of new laws related to driving under the influence of drugs but walked away split on other proposals. Read More

PITTSYLVANIA SPORTS HALL OF FAME HONORS LOCAL SPORTS LEGENDS

November 18, 2022 It was a night of applause, speeches and barbecue as the Pittsylvania Sports Hall of Fame welcomed nine inductees who ranged from coaches to professional baseball athletes. Read More

YES, VIRGINIA, LEGISLATORS CAN WORK ACROSS PARTY LINES. HERE’S THE PROOF.

November 11, 2022 It was approaching 4 p.m. on a Friday, which is never a good time to have a work emergency. Scott Surovell, though, had a work emergency. Worst of all, he had until 4:30 p.m. to solve it, but the solution, if one was to be found, was five hours away. Read More

LOCAL HISTORY MONTH DESIGNATION HAS LOCAL ORIGINS

October 5, 2022 The Pittsylvania County Historical Society honored Del. Les Adams Saturday for his resolution designating October as Local History Month. Read More

NEW BUSINESS BREAKS GROUND IN GRETNA

August 29, 2022 Pittsylvania County officials and community leaders joined representatives from Tradesman Trucking to celebrate the groundbreaking of a new 22,500-square foot facility in the Gretna Industrial Park. Read More

TRADESMAN TRUCKING TO BRING 30 JOBS TO GRETNA INDUSTRIAL PARK

August 29, 2022 Gretna, Va. (WDBJ) - A trucking company is relocating its headquarters to Gretna’s Industrial Park. Read More

TRADESMAN TRUCKING BREAKS GROUND ON GRETNA FACILITY, WILL CREATE 30 NEW JOBS

August 28, 2022 PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY, Va. (WSET) — Pittsylvania County officials and community leaders joined representatives from Tradesman Trucking in breaking ground on the company's new 22,500-square-foot facility in Gretna. Read More

SWEET LOU BACK AT HOOKER FIELD

August 9, 2022 On Saturday, the Detroit Tigers retired Martinsville’s Lou Whitaker’s jersey number, but the commonwealth of Virginia and the city of Martinsville weren’t quite through with the bestowing of accolades on the baseball standout. Read More

'IT’S A ONE IN A MILLION THAT YOU FIND A LOU WHITAKER': MARTINSVILLE'S OWN IS CELEBRATED AHEAD OF SPECIAL HONOR IN DETROIT

August 6, 2022 Talk to just about any baseball fan in Martinsville and Henry County, and most will tell you the greatest injustice in sports is the fact Lou Whitaker isn’t in the Major League Baseball Hall of Fame. Read More

PACE APPOINTED TO TOBACCO COMMISSION

August 3, 2022 Gov. Glenn Youngkin has appointed Chatham Mayor Will Pace to the Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission. Read More

FORMER SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER HONORED WITH RESOLUTION

July 26, 2022 Joe DeVault, former teacher, coach, principal, chairman of the Patrick and Henry Community College Board, and school board chairman for Henry County Public Schools, was belatedly honored with a joint resolution honoring his work upon the occasion of his retirement. Read More

MOUNTAIN VALLEY PIPELINE WANTS ANOTHER FOUR YEARS TO FINISH WORK, VIRGINIANS REMAIN SPLIT

July 26, 2022 As Mountain Valley Pipeline seeks a four-year extension to finish building the long-delayed project, intended to carry natural gas from the Marcellus shale fields into Virginia, Virginians remain as divided as ever on the pipeline’s fate. Read More

SCHOOL SURVEY HIGHLIGHTS CONCERNS

July 14, 2022 The results of a new school community engagement survey in Henry County show increased concerns among staff, students and parents. Read More

LEGISLATORS BACK IN CONTROL

June 30, 2022 If there was a takeaway from the local Chamber’s post-legislative update this week, it would be: In control and flush with money. Read More

IN MIXED VIEWS, DAN RIVER REGION LEADERS REACT TO ROE V. WADE RULING

June 25, 2022 The leader of the Danville chapter of the NAACP blasted the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision Friday overturning Roe V. Wade. Read More

YOUNGKIN ANNOUNCES INTENTIONS FOLLOWING THE OVERTURN OF ROE V. WADE

June 26, 2022 Gov. Glenn Youngkin has signaled his intention to pursue legislation that would ban abortions after 15 weeks following the Supreme Court’s landmark ruling June 24 overturning Roe v. Wade. Read More

LOCAL LAWMAKERS DISAPPOINTED IN LACK OF GAS TAX HOLIDAY

June 9, 2022 After months of hammering out a budget agreeable to both sides of the aisle, three local state lawmakers applauded the nearly $4 billion tax relief as part of the state budget passed June 1, but were disappointed that the gas tax holiday was not included. Read More

DELEGATES MARSHALL, ADAMS NAMED TO VIRGINIA TOBACCO COMMISSION

April 11, 2022 A local lawmaker is back on the Virginia Tobacco Commission after a two-year hiatus — and he’ll be joined by a fellow member of the House of Delegates. Read More

GOVERNOR SIGNS NEW BILLS INTO LAW

April 8, 2022 Governor Glenn Youngkin signed more than 40 bills into law in the past week including legislation strengthening school safety audits, cutting fees for sportsmen, and establishing training for law enforcement to recognize signs of human trafficking. Read More

YOUNGKIN SIGNS MORE THAN 40 BILLS INTO LAW

April 4, 2022 RICHMOND — Governor Glenn Youngkin signed more than 40 bills into law Friday including legislation strengthening school safety audits, cutting fees for sportsmen, and establishing training for law enforcement to recognize signs of human trafficking. Read More

GOVERNOR GLENN YOUNGKIN SIGNS 45 BILLS INTO LAW

April 2, 2022 RICHMOND, VIRGINIA – Governor Glenn Youngkin signed more than 40 bills into law Friday including legislation strengthening school safety audits, cutting fees for sportsmen, and establishing training for law enforcement to recognize signs of human trafficking. Read More

BILLS OK'D FROM ROANOKE AND NEW RIVER VALLEYS' DELEGATION SHOW RANGE OF LEGISLATURE

March 21, 2022 Senators of the Roanoke and New River valleys passed more bills through the Virginia General Assembly this winter compared to their regional counterparts in the House of Delegates, though numbers alone understate the variety of laws made. Read More

RICHMOND REPORT: AGRICULTURAL AND FORESTRY NEEDS OF SOUTHSIDE

March 11, 2022 The 2022 regular session of the Virginia General Assembly is nearing its completion here in Richmond in this the final week of the legislative calendar. Read More

THE JOINT COURTS MEETING TOOK A TURN WHILE REVIEWING TWO RETIRED JUDGES

March 11, 2022 A meeting that took place Tuesday night spiraled towards the end when two retired judges were up for review in a joint meeting of the Senate and House Courts Committees. Read More

LEGISLATURE ELEVATES FRANKLIN COUNTY PROSECUTOR DUDLEY TO JUDGESHIP

March 10, 2022 Franklin County’s prosecutor has been tapped for a new role in the courtroom with state lawmakers voting this week to appoint him to a general district court judgeship. Read More

PHOTOS: THIS WEEK AT THE VIRGINIA GENERAL ASSEMBLY (FEB. 28 - MAR. 4)

March 4, 2022 View Photos

BILL TO STOP COLLEGES FROM HOLDING TRANSCRIPTS HOSTAGE IS DEFEATED IN HOUSE SUBCOMMITTEE

March 4, 2022 A bill that would have restricted colleges from withholding the transcripts of students who haven’t paid their bills was defeated Wednesday in a House subcommittee. Read More

TEBOW BILL, WHICH LETS HOMESCHOOLED KIDS PLAY HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS, IS DEFEATED AGAIN

March 3, 2022 RICHMOND A bill that would allow homeschooled students to play high school sports – nicknamed the "Tebow Bill" – has arisen frequently in the General Assembly throughout the past decade. But each year, the Republican-favored bill has been defeated by Democrats. Read More

VA. SENATE PANEL BACKS BILL TO CURB GOVERNOR'S SCHOOLS ADMISSION REFORMS

March 3, 2022 RICHMOND — A Democrat-controlled Senate panel on Thursday advanced legislation banning discrimination in the admissions process at Virginia’s governor’s schools, weakening a more expansive proposal by the GOP that sought race-blind admissions but signaling dissatisfaction with new policies to bring more racial diversity to the schools. Read More

BILL TO PREVENT A GOVERNOR FROM INTERFERING WITH STATE INSPECTOR GENERAL ADVANCES IN LEGISLATURE

March 2, 2022 The General Assembly is advancing a bill that would prohibit the governor or his aides from interfering with an investigation by the Office of the State Inspector General. Read More

RELIGIOUS FREEDOM BILL DIES IN VIRGINIA SENATE

February 24, 2022 A Virginia Senate committee on Wednesday failed to advance a bill that LGBTQ+ advocates have said would have allowed LGBTQ+ discrimination. Read More

VIRGINIA HOUSE PASSES BILL TO EXEMPT RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATIONS FROM NONDISCRIMINATION LAWS

February 18, 2022 The Virginia House of Delegates this week approved a bill that would give certain religious-affiliated groups and businesses a pass on following the state’s nondiscrimination laws. Read More

RICHMOND REPORT: MANY LONG HOURS AS CROSSOVER NEARS

February 11, 2022 At the time of this writing, the General Assembly is in the final full week of considering legislation prior to the midpoint of the regular session known as “crossover.” Read More

DELEGATES MAY BLOCK REELECTION OF LOUDOUN JUDGE

February 2, 2022 Two Loudoun County Circuit Court Judges are up for reappointment during this year’s General Assembly session and the typically routine reelection is in question for one of them. Read More

LOCAL LOBBYING EFFORT UNDERWAY REGARDING REVERSION BILLS

February 1, 2022 While one bill has made its way out of committee and awaits a vote on the House floor, and another bill awaits its first hearing in a Senate committee, there is a lobbying effort underway in Henry County to persuade delegates and senators to support putting the matter of reversion in Martinsville from a city to a town to a vote by city voters. Read More

PHOTOS: THIS WEEK AT THE VIRGINIA GENERAL ASSEMBLY (JAN. 24 - 28)

January 27, 2022 View Photos

RICHMOND REPORT: SESSION STARTS WITH SENSE OF EXCITEMENT

January 27, 2022 The work of the Virginia General Assembly for the 2022 regular session is now well underway. Read More

NEW HOUSE AND SENATE DISTRICTS RESULT IN CHANGES FOR COUNTY, DANVILLE

January 19, 2022 The Virginia Supreme Court approved new General Assembly House and Senate district maps that will remove the Town of Hurt from the House district containing Pittsylvania County Read More

“LET’S GET TO WORK.” GLENN YOUNGKIN SWORN IN AS VIRGINIA’S 74TH GOVERNOR?

January 18, 2022 RICHMOND, Va. - On a chilly Saturday afternoon, there was a new change of guard in Richmond and Virginia. Read More

MARSHALL LANDS COVETED COMMITTEE APPOINTMENT

January 14, 2022 Two Southside delegates got big committee assignments Wednesday under the new House Speaker. Read More

FINAL REDISTRICTING MAP SEPARATES HURT VOTERS FROM REST OF COUNTY

December 29, 2021 Despite requests from the mayors of two Pittsylvania County towns, the State Supreme Court Tuesday adopted final redistricting maps that put a small sliver of the northern end of Pittsylvania County into a different House district than the rest of the county. Read More

REDISTRICTING ALIGNS MARTINSVILLE AND HENRY COUNTY WITH WESTERN COUNTIES

December 29, 2021 The Virginia Supreme Court did on Tuesday what a redistricting commission failed to do when it established new voting districts for the Senate and House of Delegates of Virginia and for Virginia’s representatives to the U.S. House of Representatives. Read More

LOCAL MAYORS ASK STATE JUSTICES FOR MAP CHANGES

December 22, 2021 Mayors of two Pittsylvania County towns are asking the State Supreme Court to make a minor change to their proposed redistricting maps. Read More

THE HARVEST FOUNDATION WILL FUND A $7 MILLION INVESTMENT OVER THE NEXT 4.5 YEARS AT THE MARTINSVILLE-HENRY COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORP.

December 10, 2021 The Harvest Foundation will invest a total of $7 million over the next 4 ½ years at the Martinsville-Henry County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) to continue MHC’s upward trajectory of job creation, wage growth, and tourism. Read More

LEGISLATORS HEAR CONCERNS FROM CITIZENS, OFFER INSIGHT TO LEGISTLATIVE PROCESS

December 3, 2021 It’s always interesting to be able to learn more about how our government works “straight from the horse’s mouth” so to speak. Read More

NCI HAS NEW BOARD MEMBERS

November 18, 2021 New College Institute has listed its newest board members on its website. The most recent board meeting date announcement remains listed as June 23, 2021. Read More

LUCK COMMEMORATED IN CHATHAM

November 4, 2021 CHATHAM, Va. — Joann Luck was a dispatcher for the Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office for over 30 years. She joined in 1986, and on Wednesday, Oct. 27, she was commemorated at the Chatham Community Center. Read More

DELEGATES DEFEND GOP HOUSE SEATS

November 3, 2021 CHATHAM, Va. — Dels. Les R. Adams (R-Chatham) and Danny Marshall (R-Danville) defended GOP seats in the Virginia House of Delegates after landslide victories in the 2021 General Election on Tuesday night. Read More

LOCAL RECAP: DANVILLE VOTERS FAVOR DEMOCRATS, PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY RIDES WITH GOP WAVE

November 3, 2021 Danville voters preferred Democrat Terry McAuliffe as governor, even though he lost statewide. Read More

BRYANT, DILLARD AND DURDEN ARE UNOFFICIAL WINNERS IN HENRY COUNTY

November 3, 2021 Results are incomplete, but the numbers reported to the Virginia Department of Elections favor incumbent Joe Bryant for the Collinsville District Board of Supervisor with 58% of the vote... Read More

DEL. LES ADAMS TO CONTINUE REPRESENTING SOUTHSIDE'S DISTRICT 16

November 2, 2021 District 16 will continue being led by Del. Les Adams. Adams (R) defeated Chance Trevillian (D) to retain his seat. Read More

UPDATE: SALES TAX MEASURE PASSES IN DANVILLE

November 2, 2021 Danvillians can expect a 1-percentage-point increase in its sales tax to help pay for school projects following Tuesday night's vote. Read More

IT'S ELECTION DAY IN DANVILLE AND PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY

November 2, 2021 Voters in Danville and Pittsylvania County head to the polls today to choose a governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general. Read More

REPUBLICAN INCUMBENT IN 16TH DISTRICT, LES ADAMS, DEFEATS POLITICAL NEWCOMER

November 2, 2021 Republican incumbent Les Adams won the House of Delegates 16th District for a fifth time in a row defeating political newcomer and Democrat Chance Trevillian. Read More

POLITICAL NEWCOMER LOOKING TO UNSEAT REPUBLICAN INCUMBENT IN 16TH DISTRICT

November 1, 2021 Voters have one more day to decide the next member for the House of Delegates in the 16th District. Read More

VOTER GUIDE: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW FOR ELECTION DAY

November 1, 2021 Election Day is today throughout the state. All polls open at 6 a.m. and close at 7 p.m. As long as you are in line at 7 p.m., you will be allowed to vote. Remember to bring a valid ID. Read More

VIRGINIA HOUSE OF DELEGATES DISTRICT 16 GENERAL ELECTION RESULTS ON NOV. 2, 2021

October 30, 2021 Chance Trevillian (D) and Les Adams (R) are vying for the seat in the Virginia House of Delegates District 16 race. This district covers Martinsville, as well as parts of Henry and Pittsylvania counties.... Read More

NONE OF THE CONTESTED RACES ARE MORE CROWDED THAN THE IRISWOOD DISTRICT SUPERVISOR'S SEAT

October 30, 2021 A number of local, regional and state races will be on the ballot Tuesday, but no race will be more crowded than the Iriswood District board of supervisor seat, where four people are vying to be the top vote-getter... Read More

ADAMS SEEKS REELECTION TO HOUSE OF DELEGATES

October 29, 2021 Read More

82 NEW JOBS COMING TO HENRY COUNTY

October 28, 2021 Henry Co., VA (WSET) — Governor Ralph Northam announced on Thursday that VF Corporation, a global leader in branded lifestyle apparel, footwear, and accessories, will invest $10.2 million to grow their operation in Henry County... Read More

GOVERNOR NORTHAM ANNOUNCES MAJOR APPAREL COMPANY TO INVEST $10.2 MILLION IN HENRY COUNTY, CREATE 82 NEW JOBS

October 28, 2021 RICHMOND—Governor Ralph Northam today announced that VF Corporation, a global leader in branded lifestyle apparel, footwear, and accessories, will invest $10.2 million to grow their operation in Henry County. The expansion will create 82 jobs... Read More

MAJOR APPAREL COMPANY TO INVEST $10.2 MILLION, CREATE 82 NEW JOBS IN HENRY COUNTY

October 28, 2021 HENRY COUNTY, Va. (WFXR) — VF Corporation — described by Virginia officials as a global leader in branded lifestyle apparel, footwear, and accessories — will invest $10.2 million to grow their operation in Henry County, creating 82 new jobs... Read More

CHATHAM RALLIES BEHIND YOUNGKIN

October 27, 2021 CHATHAM, Va. — Republican voters rallied behind Glenn Youngkin in Chatham Tuesday night... Read More

PARTISAN BIASES LAID BARE ON VIRGINIA REDISTRICTING COMMISSION AS MORE GRIDLOCK STYMIES CONGRESSIONAL MAP

October 20, 2021 The bipartisan Virginia Redistricting Commission nearly gave up on drawing a congressional map on Wednesday after coming to blunt terms with their reality: Partisanship is the real motivating factor — even on a commission created expressly to avoid it... Read More

CONTENTIOUS REDISTRICTING PROCESS DOWN TO THE WIRE IN VIRGINIA

October 15, 2021 Virginia’s bipartisan redistricting commission is running out of time to submit new political district maps, after weeks of stalemate and partisan bickering... Read More

GOVERNOR APPOINTS CHATHAM MAN TO FORESTRY BOARD

October 13, 2021 CHATHAM, Va. — Gov. Ralph Northam last month announced that Chad Shelton of Chatham had been appointed to the Virginia Board of Forestry (BOF)... Read More

VIRGINIA REDISTRICTING COMMISSION MAY GIVE UP ON UPDATING STATE MAPS

October 11, 2021 Virginia’s bipartisan redistricting commission could give up on trying to redraw the state’s legislative districts after intense partisan bickering that showed few signs of letting up during a virtual meeting Monday... Read More

‘WE HAVE HAD THE AIRING OF THE GRIEVANCES’; VA. REDISTRICTING COMMISSION MOVES ON TO CONGRESSIONAL MAPS

October 11, 2021 Members of the Virginia Redistricting Commission said Monday they’ll move on to redrawing the state’s 11 congressional districts after efforts to reach a compromise on General Assembly maps ended in a stalemate last week... Read More

REDISTRICTING COMMISSION MOVES TO CONGRESSIONAL MAPS, PLANS FORMAL VOTE TO DROP WORK ON LEGISLATIVE MAPS

October 11, 2021 The Virginia Redistricting Commission on Monday had preliminary discussions about how to draw the state’s congressional districts, setting aside its contentious work on the state’s legislative districts... Read More

WATCH NOW: GUBERNATORIAL CANDIDATE, REPUBLICANS: IT'S TIME FOR A CHANGE

October 5, 2021 The nation will be watching Virginia’s gubernatorial elections, Republican candidate Glenn Youngkin said to a crowd of about 250 in Martinsville... Read More

WITH FIRST MAPS RELEASED, CHATHAM DELEGATE TALKS REDISTRICTING

September 28, 2021 - CHATHAM, Va. — After map proposals from both democrat and republican consultants suggested a major shift in Virginia house districts, Del. Les Adams (R-Chatham) said Southside... Read More

355 JOBS EXPECTED AS GERMAN MANUFACTURER ESTABLISHES OPERATION IN HENRY COUNTY, FIRST IN US

September 28, 2021 - HENRY COUNTY, Va. (WDBJ/Governor’s Office Release) - A company that invented quartz composite sinks will invest $85 million to establish its first U.S. manufacturing operation... Read More

YOU CAN GO TO THE POLLS STARTING FRIDAY

September 16, 2021 - In-person voting for the November elections begins today throughout Virginia, when registered voters can cast ballots by mail or in-person in races ranging from governor through the General... Read More

RESTAURANT SOUGHT FOR LUNCH PROGRAM; GOP OPENS LOCAL HEADQUARTERS

August 29, 2021 - The West Piedmont Planning District Commission is seeking partner restaurants to help provide meals to low-to-moderate-income senior citizens in the region. The restaurants would... Read More

REDISTRICTING COMMISSION WILL SCRAP VIRGINIA'S CURRENT POLITICAL MAPS AND START FROM SCRATCH

August 24, 2021 - Virginia’s new redistricting commission will scrap the state’s current political maps and redraw boundaries for the state’s congressional and legislative districts from scratch. The commission voted... Read More

REDISTRICTING COMMISSION WILL SCRAP VIRGINIA'S CURRENT POLITICAL MAPS AND START FROM SCRATCH

August 23, 2021 - Virginia’s new redistricting commission will scrap the state’s current political maps and redraw boundaries for the state’s congressional and legislative districts from scratch. The commission voted... Read More

GOVERNOR VISITS HURT FOR GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY

July 14, 2021 - A day long awaited and a day long remembered. A landmark event for a residential Southern Virginia town of 1,300 after a marathon endeavor. Arguably the story... Read More

STAUNTON RIVER PLASTICS BREAKS GROUND ON HURT FACILITY

July 14, 2021 - Gov. Ralph Northam joined federal, state and local representatives this morning in the Town of Hurt as Ohio-based manufacturing subsidiary Staunton River Plastics broke... Read More

WATCH NOW: LONGSTANDING MARTINSVILLE BUSINESS OWNERS RECOGNIZED FOR 240 YEARS IN THE COMMUNITY

July 3, 2021 - Harry Alley, John Hughes and George Lester II were recognized Saturday morning at the Uptown Martinsville Farmers Market for their... Read More

PAA_ADAMS

June 22, 2021 - State Del. Les Adams (R-Chatham, left) read a commendation from the General Assembly to Piedmont Arts and presented it to Executive Director... Read More

BALLOT SET FOR LOCAL RACES IN NOVEMBER AS FILING DEADLINE EXPIRES

June 10, 2021 - Along with the statewide races this November, there are a number of local and regional races that will be on the ballot. Voters in the Iriswood, Collinsville and Blackberry districts will choose a... Read More

SAFETY, FUN TO MEET AT PCCA DAY

May 19, 2021 - Pittsylvania County Community Action (PCCA) is gearing up for its annual Community Action Awareness Day. "We're excited about our annual community access day," said Executive Director Everlena Ross... Read More

SOUTHSIDE REPRESENTATIVES LAMENT CONCERNS OF “ONE-PARTY GOVERNANCE”

April 21, 2021 - Local representatives from the Virginia General Assembly voiced displeasure with efforts by the Democratic-majority during an April 20 post-legislative update to the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce. State Sen. Bill Stanley, R-Moneta, and Dels. Les Adams, R-Chatham... Read More

LEGISLATIVE CHORUS: DEMOCRATS DON'T CARE ABOUT SOUTHSIDE VIRGINIA

April 20, 2021 - Three of the Republican men who represent this region in the state legislature were steadfastly subdued at Tuesday’s annual post legislative update and blamed the state’s Democrats in Richmond for broadly neglecting Southside Virginia. State Senator Bill Stanley, R-Rocky Mount, said... Read More

LEGISLATIVE CHORUS: DEMOCRATS DON'T CARE ABOUT SOUTHSIDE VIRGINIA

April 20, 2021 - The four Republican men who represent this region in the state legislature were steadfastly subdued at Tuesday’s annual post legislative update and blamed the state’s Democrats in Richmond for broadly neglecting Southside Virginia. State Senator Bill Stanley (R-Rocky Mount) said... Read More

'IT'S ABOUT ANYTHING BUT MARIJUANA': PITTSYLVANIA, DANVILLE LEGISLATORS RAG LEGALIZATION BILL

April 12, 2021 - The four state legislators representing Pittsylvania County and the City of Danville in Virginia's General Assembly, Sen. Frank Ruff (R-15), Sen. Bill Stanley (R-20), Del. Danny Marshall (R-14) and Del. Les Adams (R-16) convened Monday morning to speak at the... Read More

J&J TRUCK SALES TO INVEST $5.2 MILLION TO INCREASE REFURBISHING CAPACITY IN PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY

March 30, 2021 - J&J Truck Sales will invest $5.2 million to establish a new 45,000-square-foot facility adjacent to its existing operation in Pittsylvania County. Virginia successfully competed with South Carolina for the project, which will create 27 new jobs. Headquartered in the Town of Chatham, J&J Truck Sales, Inc. is one of the nation’s leading... Read More

NEW JOBS EXPECTED WITH EXPANSION OF CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT COMPANY IN PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY

March 29, 2021 - J&J Truck Sales, Inc., a heavy duty truck sales and construction equipment sales and rental firm, will invest $5.2 million to expand its operation in Pittsylvania County, according to an announcement made Monday. The company will establish a 45,000-square-foot facility next to... Read More

J&J TRUCK SALES TO EXPAND, CREATE 27 NEW JOBS IN CHATHAM

March 29, 2021 - A local purveyor of dump trucks is slated to break ground on a new facility directly adjacent to its current operation on U.S. Highway 29 in Chatham. Gov. Ralph Northam Monday announced that J&J Truck Sales, Inc. is investing over $5 million to expand operations in Pittsylvania County, a move that will... Read More

CHATHAM TRUCK FIRM'S $5.2 MILLION EXPANSION DRIVES 27 NEW JOBS

March 29, 2021 - J&J Truck Sales on U.S. 29 in Chatham plans to invest $5.2 million for a new facility and add 27 jobs. The company, which sells and rents trucks and construction equipment, will have a new 45,000-square-foot facility next to... Read More

CHATHAM TRUCK FIRM'S $5.2 MILLION EXPANSION DRIVES 27 NEW JOBS

DELAY FOR CENSUS DATA EXPECTED TO KEEP VIRGINIA FROM USING REDRAWN MAP IN 2021 ELECTIONS

March 8, 2021 - Virginia will get redistricting data from the U.S. Census Bureau just over a month before November’s elections, a nearly six-month delay that could lead to House of Delegates elections for three straight years for the first time since the early 1980s. Census delays were expected with the coronavirus pandemic initially... Read More

AGRICULTURE LEADERS ANTICIPATE REDISTRICTING COMMISSION’S IMPACT ON RURAL VIRGINIA

February 27, 2021 - A diverse group of eight Virginians will join eight legislators in serving on the state’s new redistricting commission. They soon will be tasked with redrawing the state’s political maps using new U.S. Census data. A panel of retired judges chose 64 finalists from 1,200 applicants selected by... Read More

AG LEADERS ANTICIPATE REDISTRICTING COMMISSION’S IMPACT ON RURAL VIRGINIA

February 25, 2021 - As populations shift from rural to urban areas and political maps are reexamined, agricultural advocates hope farmers and rural Virginians can maintain a cohesive voice. A diverse group of eight Virginians will join eight legislators in serving... Read More

EDITORIAL: HOUSE DEMOCRATS TURN THEIR BACKS ON RURAL VIRGINIA

February 24, 2021 - We choose our words carefully, so when we use a strong one, we mean it. Today we shall use a strong one. Perhaps several strong ones. On Wednesday, a House of Delegates committee tabled - that’s a polite way of saying “killed” - a proposed constitutional amendment that would have guaranteed... Read More

ANOTHER VIEW: HOUSE DEMOCRATS TURN THEIR BACKS ON RURAL VIRGINIA

February 22, 2021 - We choose our words carefully, so when we use a strong one, we mean it. Today we shall use a strong one. Perhaps several strong ones. On Wednesday, a House of Delegates committee tabled - that’s a polite way of saying “killed” - a proposed constitutional amendment that would have guaranteed... Read More

EDITORIAL: HOUSE DEMOCRATS TURN THEIR BACKS ON RURAL VIRGINIA

February 19, 2021 - We choose our words carefully, so when we use a strong one, we mean it. Today we shall use a strong one. Perhaps several strong ones. On Wednesday, a House of Delegates committee tabled - that’s a polite way of saying “killed” - a proposed constitutional amendment that would have guaranteed... Read More

OPINIONS - DEL. LES R. ADAMS

February 17, 2021 -During his 2017 campaign for governor of Virginia, Republican nominee Ed Gillespie would regularly warn audiences of how critically significant the political choices made in that election, and those immediately following, would be to our Commonwealth. Either Virginia... Read More

OPINIONS - DEL. LES R. ADAMS

February 10, 2021 -This week the Virginia General Assembly concluded its constitutionally prescribed regular session, adjourning sine die, but with each body failing to yet deliberate on the hundreds of bills passed in the opposite house. As you may recall, the Republicans in both the House and... Read More

ASSEMBLY CONSIDERS NEW GUN PROPOSALS

February 4, 2021 -Just like last year, the Virginia General Assembly’s 2021 session began with a show of force from gun-rights supporters in downtown Richmond. And just like last year, Democrats still have full control. And they’re still looking to... Read More

BICYCLING SAFETY BILL PASSES VIRGINIA HOUSE, ROLLS ON TO SENATE

February 2, 2021 -The Virginia House of Delegates passed the Bicycle Safety Act, which advocates say could make Virginia among the safest states in the country for bicyclists. The bill from Del. Chris Hurst, D-Montgomery, has three main components: drivers are required to... Read More

DEMOCRATS PUSH TO PRESERVE PANDEMIC VOTING ACCESS MEASURES

January 30, 2021 -After the November election, legislators knew changes to Virginia’s election laws were in order. Democrats and Republicans had differing views of what those changes should be. Encouraged by a presidential election with high... Read More

DEMOCRATS PUSH TO PRESERVE PANDEMIC VOTING ACCESS MEASURES

CENSUS DELAYS COULD MAKE THE VIRGINIA HOUSE HOLD ELECTIONS IN 2021, 2022 AND 2023: ‘STILL DON’T HAVE A FINAL ANSWER’

January 30, 2021 -Despite approving the creation of a panel to redraw the state’s congressional and legislative districts, Virginians are likely to vote under the current maps for this year’s House of Delegates elections as census delays could force... Read More

VA. DEMOCRATS’ NEW GUN PROPOSALS INCLUDE BACKGROUND CHECKS AT SHOOTING RANGES, BAN ON ‘GHOST’ GUNS

January 27, 2021 -Just like last year, the Virginia General Assembly’s 2021 session began with a show of force from gun-rights supporters in downtown Richmond. And just like last year, Democrats still have full control. And they’re still looking to... Read More

ADVOCATES SEEK TO BAN GUNS AT VIRGINIA POLLING LOCATIONS

January 20, 2021 -Virginia voters will no longer be able to carry firearms into polling locations under legislation advancing in the General Assembly. Republicans and gun rights activists argue the bill is unnecessary given the commonwealth’s existing laws prohibiting voter intimidation. And they’ve questioned how... Read More

HOUSE DEMOCRATS DEMAND REMOVAL OF REPUBLICAN CHOSEN FOR VIRGINIA’S NEW REDISTRICTING COMMISSION FOR ‘RIGGED’ ELECTION TWEET

January 16, 2021 -Virginia House Democrats believe a Republican from Fredericksburg selected to be on the state’s new redistricting commission should be taken off the panel before its first meeting, calling for the removal of Jose A. Feliciano, Jr. after he tweeted that... Read More

ARLINGTONIANS ON REDISTRICTING PANEL? NOPE.

January 13, 2021 -“Close but no cigar” when it comes to Arlington representation on the new Virginia legislative-redistricting commission. The eight-member panel (comprised of six men and two women) selected from 62 finalists and 1,200 overall applicants includes... Read More

WATCH NOW: NEW COLLEGE INSTITUTE INTERIM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR KAREN JACKSON GETS $18,000 RAISE

January 9, 2021 -During a recent board meeting at New College Institute, members and staff lauded 10 new Longwood graduates and talked about programs in wind energy, Amazon and telehealth and gave a raise to the boss. Chair Bill Stanley, a state senator from... Read More

EDITORIAL: REDISTRICTING JUDGES FALL SHORT OF MANDATE

January 8, 2021 -Sometimes government appears to move maddeningly slow. Right now, though, the machinery of Virginia’s new redistricting process is whirring right along at an exceptionally brisk pace. On Nov. 3, Virginia voters approved... Read More

RICHMOND'S HARRIS, HANOVER'S BABICHENKO AMONG EIGHT NAMED TO VIRGINIA REDISTRICTING COMMISSION

January 6, 2021 -A panel of retired judges on Wednesday selected the eight citizen members of Virginia’s new redistricting commission, including Greta Harris of Richmond, president and CEO of the Better Housing Coalition, and Hanover County prosecutor Mackenzie Babichenko. The list of eight... Read More

CITIZEN MEMBERS CHOSEN FOR VIRGINIA’S NEW BIPARTISAN REDISTRICTING COMMISSION

January 6, 2021 - A panel of retired judges on Wednesday selected eight citizens to participate in Virginia's new redistricting commission, choosing a racially diverse group of six men and two women from every region of the state. The group was chosen from... Read More

VIRGINIA CRIME COMMISSION ENDORSES GETTING RID OF ALL MANDATORY MINIMUM SENTENCES

January 6, 2021 -The Virginia State Crime Commission has endorsed abolishing all mandatory minimum sentences from the state code. Legislators will take up the significant proposal to get rid of 224 offenses with mandatory minimums during the... Read More

COMMITTEE SELECTS EIGHT CITIZEN MEMBERS FOR NEW REDISTRICTING COMMISSION

January 6, 2021 -Virginia’s new redistricting commission is taking shape. Wednesday, a committee selected eight citizen members who will serve alongside state lawmakers. “Both the quantity of the applications and the quality... Read More

CRIME COMMISSION RECOMMENDS ABOLISHING MANDATORY MINIMUM SENTENCES

January 5, 2021 -The Virginia State Crime Commission is recommending the General Assembly eliminate every mandatory minimum sentence in the criminal code, ranging from traffic violations to violent felony offenses. It also voted to recommend anyone currently serving a mandatory minimum be eligible for re-sentencing. Andy Elders, the deputy public defender in ... Read More

CRIME COMMISSION RECOMMENDS ENDING MANDATORY MINIMUM SENTENCING IN VIRGINIA

January 5, 2021 -Sometimes the punishment doesn’t fit the crime. Instead, in Virginia, some sentences are automatic. Judges can increase them if necessary, but they can’t be reduced. The Virginia Crime Commission believes... Read More

VIRGINIA CRIME COMMISSION VOTES TO RECOMMEND REMOVAL OF MANDATORY MINIMUM SENTENCES

January 5, 2021 -The Virginia State Crime Commission voted on Tuesday to recommend the elimination of all mandatory minimum sentences to the General Assembly. The commission, chaired by Del. Charniele Herring (D-Alexandria), voted 9-2 to approve this policy option during a... Read More

LEGISLATIVE LEADERS NAME 62 CITIZEN FINALISTS FOR EIGHT SPOTS ON REDISTRICTING COMMISSION

January 4, 2021 -Virginia legislative leaders have selected 62 finalists for the eight citizen spots on Virginia’s new redistricting commission, with Democrats’ picks coming from mostly population centers and GOP choices chiefly from rural areas. A panel of five retired... Read More

SOUTHSIDE LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION IN 'VIRTUAL' AGREEMENT ABOUT UPCOMING REMOTE GENERAL ASSEMBLY SESSION

January 3, 2021 -he General Assembly convenes for the upcoming session on Jan. 13, but the decision was announced last month by House Speaker Eileen Filler-Corn that House members would not be meeting in Richmond. Just as a recent Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce... Read More

62 CITIZEN FINALISTS NAMED FOR EIGHT SPOTS ON REDISTRICTING COMMISSION

January 3, 2021 -Virginia legislative leaders have selected 62 finalists for the eight citizen spots on Virginia’s new redistricting commission, with Democrats’ picks coming from mostly population centers and GOP choices chiefly from rural areas. A panel of five retired... Read More

LEGISLATIVE LEADERS NAME 62 CITIZEN FINALISTS FOR EIGHT SPOTS ON REDISTRICTING COMMISSION

January 2, 2021 -Virginia legislative leaders have selected 62 finalists for the eight citizen spots on Virginia’s new redistricting commission, with Democrats’ picks coming from mostly population centers and GOP choices chiefly from rural areas. A panel of five retired... Read More

CHATHAM DELEGATE PART OF NEWLY FORMED BIPARTISAN REDISTRICTING COMMISSION

January 2, 2021 -Local Delegate Les Adams is ready to help determine how the state and Congressional districts will be redrawn this year. Adams, one of eight members from the Virginia General Assembly who will serve on a newly formed... Read More

REDISTRICTING COMMISSION TO CONVENE THIS YEAR

December 30, 2020 -From left to right (top): Graham Moomaw, a journalist with Virginia Mercury, hosts a panel on the newly formed redistricting commission with State Sen. Steve Newman, R-Lynchburg; and Rebecca Green, law professor and co-director of the Election Law Program at... Read More

LATE SURGE PUSHES CITIZEN APPLICATIONS FOR REDISTRICTING PANEL TO 1,200; POOL LACKS STATE'S DIVERSITY

December 30, 2020 -A late surge before Monday’s deadline pushed citizen applications for Virginia’s new redistricting commission to more than 1,200 hopefuls for eight spots, but the pool still does not reflect the state’s diversity. The Virginia Public Access Project reports that among... Read More

LATE SURGE PUSHES CITIZEN APPLICATIONS FOR REDISTRICTING PANEL TO 1,200; POOL LACKS STATE'S DIVERSITY

LEGISLATORS DISCUSS AGAINST GREEN ENERGY, INCREASED MINIMUM WAGE AND REDUCED SENTENCES

December 27, 2020 -With the sponsorship of Appalachian Power, the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce held a legislative update with local representatives on Dec. 18 to discuss how the area is being represented in the General Assembly. The event featured Virginia Dels. Les Adams, R-Chatham, Charles... Read More

EDITORIAL: THREE LUMPS OF COAL

December 23, 2020 -Consider this a stocking stuffer, although some might consider these lumps of coal: 1. Is Terry McAuliffe really a champion for ending school disparities? The former governor launched his comeback bid by declaring he’s in favor of... Read More

AREA'S LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION ARE IN VIRTUAL AGREEMENT ABOUT UPCOMING SESSION

December 22, 2020 -The General Assembly convenes for the upcoming session on Jan. 13, but the decision was announced last month by House Speaker Eileen Filler-Corn that House members would not be meeting in Richmond. Just as the annual Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce... Read More

CITIZEN APPLICANTS FOR VIRGINIA REDISTRICTING COMMISSION SKEW WHITE, MALE, OVER AGE 50

December 21, 2020 -week from the Dec. 28 deadline to apply, citizen applicants for Virginia’s new Redistricting Commission are skewing white, male, older and comparatively well-off. Of 214 applicant profiles that the Virginia Public Access Project had received from the Virginia Division of Legislative Services as of... Read More

CITIZEN APPLICANTS FOR VIRGINIA REDISTRICTING COMMISSION SKEW WHITE, MALE, OVER AGE 50

RIBBON CUTTING HELD FOR ALTAVISTA-HURT BRIDGE

December 21, 2020 -A ribbon cutting was held at 2 p.m. today for the US-29 bridge between Hurt and Altavista. Local elected officials and representatives from VDOT and English Construction were all present for the event. "I consider this symbolic of our two communities," Mayor Mike Mattox... Read More

HENRY COUNTY SUPERVISORS HAVE A VOICE IN NEW REDISTRICTING GOALS

December 18, 2020 -Virginia’s current legislative map carves up Henry County into three different state house districts and two congressional districts. But should it stay that way? That’s a question local officials should consider as Virginia’s new bipartisan redistricting committee prepares... Read More

WATCH NOW: AREA LEGISLATORS, LAW ENFORCEMENT AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE ORGANIZATIONS OPPOSED TO THE LEGALIZATION OF MARIJUANA

December 11, 2020 -The legalization of marijuana would be detrimental to the communities in our region. That’s the consensus among local legislators, law enforcement and substance abuse organizations who offered their concerns in a virtual legislative roundtable event... Read More

WATCH NOW: AREA LEGISLATORS, LAW ENFORCEMENT AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE ORGANIZATIONS OPPOSED TO THE LEGALIZATION OF MARIJUANA

December 10, 2020 -The legalization of marijuana would be detrimental to the communities in our region. That’s the consensus among local legislators, law enforcement and substance abuse organizations who offered their concerns in a virtual legislative roundtable event Thursday afternoon. Drug-free MHC is... Read More

EDITORIAL: FRANKLIN COUNTY RESIDENTS SHOULD APPLY FOR REDISTRICTING COMMISSION

December 9, 2020 -Are you a resident of Virginia? Have you voted in at least two of the last three general elections? If you answered “yes” to both of those, then you’re still in the running. Now, for the next questions: Do you hold, or have you ever held ... Read More

SEEKING CITIZENS TO SIT ON NEW REDISTRICTING COMMISSION

December 9, 2020 -Applications are now being accepted for citizens to sit on Virginia's new Redistricting Commission. Anyone who is a resident of Virginia and has been registered to vote in the Commonwealth for the past three years can apply. They will also have had to cast ballots in at least... Read More

VIRGINIA POLITICAL LEADERS NAME 8 LEGISLATORS TO NEW REDISTRICTING COMMISSION

December 7, 2020 -The group of eight Democratic and Republican legislators who will serve on Virginia’s new redistricting commission will be made up of five men and three women, including two senior members of the Virginia Legislative... Read More

VIRGINIA REDISTRICTING COMMITTEE TAKES SHAPE

December 5, 2020 -More than half a dozen legislators have been named to a bipartisan redistricting commission which seeks to fairly draw congressional and state legislative districts. The commission will be made up of 16 people. Half of them will be legislators and the other half will be... Read More

CHATHAM DELEGATE NAMED TO STATE REDISTRICTING COMMISSION

December 3, 2020 -Virginia's Amendment 1 passed on last month's ballot with two-thirds of the popular vote, allowing a Redistricting Commission to redraw legislative borders once every decade. Eight state lawmakers were named to the 16-person commission, including four Republicans. The other eight members will... Read More

VIRGINIA LAWMAKER COORDINATED SUPPORT FOR MOUNTAIN VALLEY PIPELINE WITH PROJECT’S LOBBYIST

December 3, 2020 -A Virginia state lawmaker coordinated with an energy lobbyist to support a controversial gas pipeline, the Energy and Policy Institute has found. Delegate Les Adams, a Republican representing Henry and Pittsylvania Counties, coordinated his official letter to the federal government with an... Read More

OPINION/EDITORIAL: IT'S CITIZENS' TURN TO SHARE IN REDISTRICTING

December 3, 2020 -With the successful Election Day passage of Amendment 1 to the Virginia Constitution, which sets up an independent and bipartisan redistricting commission, attention is now focused on the five retired circuit judges who will... Read More

VIRGINIA GENERAL ASSEMBLY LEADERS NAME LAWMAKERS TO NEW REDISTRICTING COMMISSION

December 3, 2020 -General Assembly leaders have named eight lawmakers from around the state to participate in Virginia's new redistricting commission, with applications for citizen members due by Dec. 28. Those selected include three women, two of whom are Black, as part of a 16-member... Read More

VIRGINIA REDISTRICTING COMMITTEE TAKES SHAPE; PUBLIC CAN APPLY

December 3, 2020 -More than half a dozen legislators have been named to a bipartisan redistricting commission which seeks to fairly draw congressional and state legislative districts. The commission will be made up of 16 people. Half of them will be legislators and the other half will... Read More

VIRGINIA REDISTRICTING COMMITTEE TAKES SHAPE; PUBLIC CAN APPLY

December 2, 2020 -More than half a dozen legislators have been named to a bipartisan redistricting commission which seeks to fairly draw congressional and state legislative districts. The commission will be made up of 16 people. Half of them will be legislators and the other half will... Read More

LAWMAKERS NAME MEMBERS TO REDISTRICTING COMMISSION

December 2, 2020 -Virginia lawmakers have picked legislators to serve on a new redistricting commission created with the aim of eliminating gerrymandering. Leaders in both parties have announced their picks in recent days to serve on the commission. The 16-member panel, which was created... Read More

VIRGINIA REDISTRICTING COMMITTEE TAKING SHAPE

LAWMAKERS NAME MEMBERS TO REDISTRICTING COMMISSION

VIRGINIA LAWMAKERS NAME MEMBERS TO REDISTRICTING COMMISSION

LAWMAKERS NAME MEMBERS TO REDISTRICTING COMMISSION

VIRGINIA REDISTRICTING COMMITTEE TAKES SHAPE; PUBLIC CAN APPLY

VIRGINIA LAWMAKERS NAME 8 MEMBERS TO REDISTRICTING COMMISSION

NEWMAN AMONG EIGHT LAWMAKERS NAMED TO REDISTRICTING COMMISSION

December 2, 2020 -The eight legislators who will make up half of Virginia’s newly created redistricting commission have been formally named to their roles, as the selection of the eight citizen members who will work alongside them moves ahead. Virginia’s legislative leaders on Tuesday... Read More

LAWMAKERS NAME MEMBERS TO REDISTRICTING COMMISSION

STATE LAWMAKERS NAMED TO REDISTRICTING COMMISSION INCLUDING ONE DELEGATE FROM SOUTHSIDE

December 2, 2020 -All eight state lawmakers have been named to the bipartisan redistricting commission, and one of them represents Southside. Pittsylvania County Delegate Les Adams is one of the two Republicans named to the panel by the House Republican Leader. Almost 66-percent of... Read More

MCDOUGLE, NEWMAN, LOCKE, BARKER AMONG LAWMAKERS NAMED TO REDISTRICTING COMMISSION

December 1, 2020 -The eight legislators who will make up half of Virginia’s newly created redistricting commission have been formally named to their roles, as the selection of the eight citizen members who will work alongside them moves... Read More

TWO REPUBLICAN DELEGATES APPOINTED TO VIRGINIA REDISTRICTING COMMISSION

December 1, 2020 -House Republican Leader Todd Gilbert announced on Tuesday his appointments of Delegates Les Adams, R-Pittsylvania, and Margaret Ransone, R-Westmoreland, to the Virginia Redistricting Commission. Virginians voted this year on the Redistricting Commission Amendment and the amendment was... Read More

THE REDISTRICTING PROCESS CONTINUES TO ADVANCE IN VIRGINIA

November 30, 2020 -The process in Virginia to update congressional and General Assembly district boundaries is moving forward under the guidelines listed in the newly-passed constitutional amendment that establishes a redistricting commission. The commission will be composed of eight elected officials that were appointed... Read More

NEW LAW CHANGES EARLY SENTENCE CREDIT PROGRAM IN VIRGINIA

November 28, 2020 - Jade Clark has been in and out of jail a few times for theft in the Roanoke and New River valleys, but this go-round has been the most challenging. So he’s determined to make this the last time he’s behind bars. After being sentenced to several years in prison for shoplifting, Clark has... Read More

NEW LAW REFORMS EARLY SENTENCE CREDIT PROGRAM IN VIRGINIA

November 26, 2020 - Jade Clark has been in and out of jail a few times for theft in the Roanoke and New River valleys, but this go-round has been the most challenging. So he’s determined to make this the last time he’s behind bars. After being sentenced to several years in prison for shoplifting, Clark has... Read More

WATCH NOW: HENRICOPOLIS BUILDING IN MARTINSVILLE MAY BECOME BREWERY, EATERY

November 11, 2020 - Out-of-town entertainment and restaurant consultants are considering opening a brewery, restaurant and entertainment center in the building where the Henricoplis School of Medicine originally had been planned. Martinsville City Council voted during its meeting Tuesday night to give ... Read More

THOUSANDS OF VIRGINIA PRISONERS COULD BE RELEASED EARLY UNDER NEW EARNED SENTENCE CREDIT PROGRAM

October 26, 2020 - State prison officials estimate that more than 14,000 inmates in Virginia could see their release dates moved up under legislation awaiting Gov. Ralph Northam’s signature. The bill, backed by General Assembly Democrats and... Read More

THOUSANDS OF VIRGINIA PRISONERS COULD BE RELEASED EARLY UNDER NEW EARNED SENTENCE CREDIT PROGRAM

BRIDGE NORTH OF CHATHAM NAMED IN HONOR OF FORMER LATE MAYOR ROY BYRD JR.

October 15, 2020 - The late Roy P. Byrd Jr. was honored Thursday afternoon when the U.S. 29 Business bridge in Pittsylvania County was named in his memory. Del. Les Adams (R-Chatham) led the ceremony at Chatham Town Hall, with city and county residents and officials taking part in... Read More

WATCH NOW: DEL. LES ADAMS SPEAKS ABOUT THE DEDICATION OF CHATHAM BRIDGE TO FORMER MAYOR ROY P. BYRD

October 15, 2020 - Del. Les Adams and other state and local officials gathered at Chatham Town Hall Thursday afternoon to dedicate the bridge north of Chatham to former Chatham Mayor and county supervisor Roy P. Byrd, a change passed by the Virginia... Read More

HOUSE PASSES BILL AUTOMATICALLY SEALING MANY CRIMINAL RECORDS 8 YEARS AFTER SENTENCE COMPLETED

September 9, 2020 - The Virginia House of Delegates passed a bill Wednesday that would automatically seal criminal records for more than 150 offenses, making it one of the boldest automated sealing proposals in the country. “This is a second chances bill,” said House Majority Leader... Read More

VIRGINIANS COULD HAVE SOME CRIMINAL RECORDS EXPUNGED UNDER PENDING LEGISLATION

September 4, 2020 - Legislation pending in the General Assembly would, for the first time, allow for the expungement of some misdemeanor and felony convictions in Virginia. Only a small number of states, Virginia among them, do not allow the expungement of any criminal conviction, according to... Read More

WATCH NOW: U.S. 220 SOUTHERN CONNECTOR PROJECT RETURNS FOR FURTHER REVIEW

August 31, 2020 - After a 5-month delay because of COVID-19, residents will have a chance to ask questions and share feedback in person tonight at a public hearing on the potential environmental impacts of the Martinsville Southern Connector project. The Virginia Department of Transportation originally scheduled... Read More

CRIME COMMISSION RECOMMENDS AUTOMATIC EXPUNGEMENT FOR SOME CRIMES

August 31, 2020 - The Virginia Crime Commission is recommending the General Assembly pass legislation to automatically erase certain misdemeanors and felony convictions from criminal records after a certain period of time has passed. The commission discussed a proposal... Read More

REPUBLICAN-BACKED BILLS TO LIMIT GOVERNOR'S POWERS DEFEATED

August 27, 2020 - Virginia Democrats this week defeated numerous bills from Republicans attempting to rein the governor’s emergency powers while bolstering those of the General Assembly. Gov. Ralph Northam has had sweeping authority to handle Virginia’s coronavirus pandemic... Read More

GENERAL ASSEMBLY CONSIDERS SPECIAL SESSION BILLS STARTING AUG. 18

August 18, 2020 - The Virginia General Assembly will convene beginning today in a special session that may last a maximum of 30 days. Legislators will address Virginia’s biennial budget, which has been severely impacted by the ongoing global pandemic. In addition, Gov. Ralph Northam has said... Read More

VIRGINIA LEGISLATURE RECONVENES FOR SPECIAL SESSION ON BUDGET, PANDEMIC, POLICE REFORM

August 15, 2020 - State lawmakers are returning to Richmond on Tuesday for a special session that will be packed with debate on police and criminal justice reform, issues that arose from the coronavirus pandemic and adjusting the state’s budget. Gov. Ralph Northam planned... Read More

CRIMINAL JUSTICE, POLICE REFORM EXPECTED TOPICS DURING SPECIAL SESSION

August 6, 2020 - Several state representatives anticipate criminal justice and police reform proposals will be among those considered during the upcoming special session.Gov. Ralph Northam called for legislators to return for a special session on... Read More

GOOD STUMPS IN COUNTY

July 30, 2020 - Bob Good, the GOP contender for the 5th District, was in Henry County recently talking to voters. We appreciate their hospitality and decades of commitment to conservative values,” Good said. Good, who bested the Republican incumbent... Read More

DEMOCRATS STACK THE DECK

July 23, 2020 - The Virginia State Crime Commission is a legislative body established in 1966 and set out in the Code of Virginia (Sec. 30-156 et al.). Its purpose is “to study, report and make recommendations on all areas of public safety and protection.” Following is a sampling of its recent topics of study... Read More

BRIEFS: COMMUNITY FOUNDATION AWARDS GRANTS; KING'S GRANT HAS NEW EXEC; ADAMS GETS APPOINTMENT

July 5, 2020 - Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia has awarded $37,880 in COVID-19 Disaster Relief Grants to nonprofits in the Martinsville/Henry County area. With the wonderful generosity of an anonymous Donor-Advised Fund Holder, the foundation was able to... Read More

ADAMS APPOINTED TO THE CENTER FOR RURAL VIRGINIA BOARD OF TRUSTEES

July 1, 2020 - The Center for Rural Virginia announced that Del. Les Adams was appointed to serve on the Center for Rural Virginia Board of Trustees. Adams recently received his appointment to the Board from the Speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates. Adams-R, Pittsylvania, has served... Read More

DELEGATE LES ADAMS APPOINTED TO THE CENTER FOR RURAL VIRGINIA BOARD OF TRUSTEES

June 30, 2020 - The Center for Rural Virginia announced this morning that Delegate Les Adams has been appointed to serve on the Center for Rural Virginia Board of Trustees. Delegate Adams recently received his appointment to the Board from the Speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates. Les Adams (R-Pittsylvania) has served in the Virginia House of Delegates since... Read More

OUR VIEW: NCI'S 'PUBLIC' MEETING TAUGHT US A LESSON

June 20, 2020 - The four men who represent Martinsville and Henry County in state government are upset about a lot of things they say are rotten in Richmond for them since the Democrats took control. Yes, state Sen. Bill Stanley (R-Rocky Mount) and Delegates Danny... Read More

MARTINSVILLE-AREA LEGISLATORS UNHAPPY WITH THE NEW MAJORITY IN RICHMOND

June 17, 2020 - The annual post-legislative event sponsored by the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce is usually a luncheon followed by remarks from those who represent the area in Richmond. This year’s event didn’t start until 3 in the afternoon, and there was no lunch. Instead, 37 participants joined via Zoom to hear.... Read More

DEMOCRATIC LEGISLATORS TAKE MAJORITY ON TOBACCO COMMISSION, WIPE OUT SENATE GOP PRESENCE ON SOME PANELS

June 16, 2020 - Democratic legislators have secured a majority of representation on the Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission, replacing Republicans who represent most of the rural Southwest and Southside regions where the commission focuses its work. The General Assembly’s Senate Rules Committee appointed.... Read More

FERRATEX SOLUTIONS TO ESTABLISH FLAGSHIP MANUFACTURING FACILITY IN HENRY COUNTY

June 14, 2020 - FerraTex Solutions, a leading provider of cured-in-place-pipe solutions, will purchase the former Compton Wood Products facility in the Bowles Industrial Park in Henry County. The company will invest.... Read More

NEW COLLEGE INSTITUTE SHUFFLES STATE DELEGATES ON ITS BOARD OF DIRECTORS BEFORE HAVING A 'LAST MINUTE' MEETING

June 14, 2020 - Delegates Danny Marshall and Charles Poindexter were replaced in a political shift before a meeting that was not announced through the typical channels used to notify the publichere was a “last minute” meeting of the New College Institute Board of Directors on Thursday that was announced in a limited way and included two new delegates appointed this week by.... Read More

AFTER SHUFFLE, DANVILLE DELEGATE REPLACED ON NEW COLLEGE INSTITUTE BOARD

June 13, 2020 - There was a “last minute” meeting of the New College Institute Board of Directors on Thursday that was announced in a limited way and included two new delegates appointed this week by the legislature — much to the surprise of... Read More

15 NEW JOBS EXPECTED AT NEW HENRY COUNTY FLAGSHIP MANUFACTURING FACILITY

June 11, 2020 - 15 jobs are expected to be added to 150 existing jobs after Thursday's announcement that FerraTex Solutions, LLC, a provider of cured-in-place-pipe (CIPP) solutions, will purchase the former Compton Wood Products facility in the Bowles Industrial Park in Henry County. The company will invest about... Read More

FERRATEX SOLUTIONS TO ESTABLISH FLAGSHIP MANUFACTURING FACILITY IN HENRY COUNTY

June 11, 2020 - RICHMOND—Governor Ralph Northam today announced that FerraTex Solutions, LLC, a leading provider of cured-in-place-pipe (CIPP) solutions, will purchase the former Compton Wood Products facility in the Bowles Industrial Park in Henry County. The company will invest... Read More

STAUNTON RIVER RIFA ANNOUNCES PLASTICS MANUFACTURER COMING TO HURT, CREATING 200 JOBS

May 8, 2020 - ~ Plastics manufacturer Staunton River Plastics, LLC to invest $34 million to establish state-of-the-art operation ~ The Staunton River Regional Industrial Facility Authority approved an agreement today that enables Staunton River Plastics, LLC to move forward with plans to locate a state-of-the-art manufacturing... Read More

STAUNTON RIVER RIFA ANNOUNCES NEW PLASTICS MANUFACTURER IN HURT TO BRING 200 JOBS TO REGION

May 8, 2020 - Today members of the Staunton River Regional Industrial Facility Authority (RIFA) announced a local performance agreement they had reached with Staunton River Plastics Inc, a manufacturer which will bring 200 new... Read More

THE STROLLER: V-E DAY CELEBRATION WILL GO ON AS USUAL

May 6, 2020 - The Martinsville-Henry County Veterans Service Organization and Wright Funeral Services will commemorate the 75th anniversary of V-E Day at 10 a.m. Friday at the former Henry County courthouse. It all will be done in compliance with the governor's order on social distancing, organizers promise... Read More

CITY OFFICIALS REACT TO ECONOMIC CRISIS

Apr 23, 2020 - Martinsville Mayor Kathy Lawson asked Gov. Ralph Northam to consider a “roiling curtailment of the current restrictions for areas” less affected by the Coronavirus pandemic.“Particularly in the Southwestern region of the state, infection cases are either extremely low or are nonexistent,” Lawson wrote... Read More

LETTER TO THE EDITOR: ABORTION RIGHTS PART OF ELECTIONS, TOO

Mar 2, 2020 - Your article about the primary election (“Super Tuesday plans set,” Feb. 28) gave information for voters before the primary. Staying informed is important so citizens know how to vote and how their elected officials vote. Recently, the United States Senate voted on... Read More

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS HEADS TO RICHMOND

Mar 1, 2020 - Big Brothers Big Sisters of Danville Area participants were guests of Del. Danny Marshall at the Virginia House of Delegates in Richmond. Marshall met with the youth in his office building to explain the legislative process. The children and their chaperones were escorted to the gallery of... Read More

LETTER TO THE EDITOR: RIGHT VOTE FOR STUDENT JUSTICE ISSUE

Feb 28, 2020 - On Feb. 5, a bill to decriminalize disorderly conduct in schools passed the Virginia Senate. SB 3, which was sponsored by state Sen. Jennifer McClellan, will prevent students from being put in the criminal justice system unnecessarily. I am proud to report that our... Read More

LETTER TO THE EDITOR: WORKING ON ISSUES THAT MATTER TO REGION

Feb 15, 2020 - Several members of the Martinsville/Henry County Chapter of Virginia Organizing, including myself, met with members of the General Assembly on Feb. 3. Although all of us live in MHC area (Bassett, Spencer, eastern Henry County, and Martinsville City), we have three... Read More

GENERAL ASSEMBLY HITS MIDSESSION DEADLINE WITH GUN CONTROL, GAS TAX, MONUMENTS AND OTHER BILLS ADVANCING

Feb 11, 2020 - The new Democratic majority has been busy this General Assembly session passing hundreds of bills to advance its agenda. Republicans have had to adapt to being in the minority, and many of them have found ways to build bipartisan support to pass their own bills. The session has been... Read More

NATIONAL BRIEFS: FLORIDA BABY REMAINS MISSING AS HIS FAMILY MOURNS LOSS OF 3 ‘BRAVE WOMEN’

Jan 31, 2020 - The likelihood of finding missing baby Andrew Caballeiro alive grew weaker Thursday as his family members spoke publicly for the first time, revealing a growing rift that may have enraged the infant’s father, Ernesto Caballeiro — who police say... Read More

GUN CONTROL BILLS PASSED VIRGINIA DESPITE SHOW OF FORCE FROM OPPONENTS

Jan 30, 2020 - The Virginia state legislature passed a package of gun control bills Thursday, more than a week after thousands of the legislation's armed opponents marched through Richmond. Virginia's House of Delegates approved... Read More

BILL TO ALLOW RANKED-CHOICE VOTING IN LOCAL ELECTIONS ADVANCES

Jan 30, 2020 - A bill allowing Virginia voters to choose more than one candidate by ranking them on their ballots narrowly advanced through subcommittee earlier this week. House Bill 1103, introduced by Del. Sally Hudson, D-57th, of Charlottesville, would open a pilot program for ranked-choice voting in local elections, such as city council or... Read More

MARTINSVILLE, HENRY COUNTY EDUCATORS TRY TO TEACH LEGISLATORS A THING OR TWO ABOUT SCHOOL FUNDING

Jan 30, 2020 - Six local teachers joined thousands from across Virginia in Richmond on Monday to rally for more public education funding. Gov. Ralph Northam’s proposed state budget for the next two fiscal years, now in the hands of the General Assembly, includes $1.2 billion for K-12 education in... Read More

VIRGINIA’S DEMOCRATICALLY CONTROLLED HOUSE PASSES SEVEN GUN CONTROL MEASURES

Jan 30, 2020 - Democrats in the House of Delegates on Thursday passed seven of the eight gun-control measures advocated by Gov. Ralph Northam, a significant step for an issue that Republicans had blocked for decades. In debate ahead of the votes, lawmakers showed flashes of the emotion that has supercharged the ... Read More

SUBCOMMITTEE ADVANCES BILL ALLOWING VOTERS TO CHOOSE MULTIPLE CANDIDATES

Jan 29, 2020 - A bill allowing Virginia voters to choose more than one candidate on the ballot narrowly advanced through subcommittee Monday. House Bill 1103, introduced by Del. Sally Hudson, D- Charlottesville, would open a pilot program for ranked-choice voting in local elections, such as city council or... Read More

SUBCOMMITTEE ADVANCES BILL ALLOWING VOTERS TO CHOOSE MULTIPLE CANDIDATES

Jan 29, 2020 - A bill allowing Virginia voters to choose more than one candidate on the ballot narrowly advanced through subcommittee Monday. House Bill 1103, introduced by Del. Sally Hudson, D-Charlottesville, would open a pilot program for ranked-choice voting in local elections, such as city council or... Read More

VA. SUBCOMMITTEE ADVANCES BILL ALLOWING VOTERS TO CHOOSE MULTIPLE CANDIDATES

DELEGATE CONTINUES ‘CRUSADE’ TO GET STATE TO SWEAR OFF PUBLIC PROFANITY LAW

Jan 24, 2020 - Part of Del. Michael Webert’s tenure in the General Assembly has been marked by a dogged crusade to decriminalize a state law that prohibits public profanity. For the past five years, Webert, R-Warren County, has sponsored bills that would decriminalize the statute. Currently, profane swearing is... Read More

HOUSE COMMITTEE ADVANCES BILL TO RELAX ABORTION REGULATIONS

Jan 22, 2020 - The House Courts of Justice Committee voted Wednesday to advance a bill that would repeal a number of state regulations on abortion adopted by previous Republican majorities. Democrats, now in control of the legislature, have promised a package of new laws aimed at expanding access to abortion... Read More

EXPERTS WEIGH IN ON POTENTIAL LEGAL CHALLENGES OF PROPOSED MARIJUANA DECRIMINALIZATION

Jan 17, 2020 - DANVILLE - Although decriminalizing marijuana possession could save people from serving jail time for a minor infraction, some people are worried about how it could affect the way police fight crime. Danville Commonwealth’s Attorney Michael Newman points out current marijuana laws have... Read More

EXPERTS WEIGH IN ON POTENTIAL LEGAL CHALLENGES OF PROPOSED MARIJUANA DECRIMINALIZATION

Jan 17, 2020 - Although decriminalizing marijuana possession could save people from serving jail time for a minor infraction, some people are worried about how it could affect the way police fight crime. Danville Commonwealth’s Attorney Michael Newman points out current marijuana laws have... Read More

GOP DELEGATES PREPPED FOR 2020 IN THE MINORITY

Jan 9, 2020 - Local GOP legislators said they may be in the minority when they returned to Richmond for the 2020 General Assembly session, but that will not deter them from working to benefit their respective districts. Del. Charles Poindexter, R-Glade Hill, said he plans to tackle... Read More

AS GENERAL ASSEMBLY SESSION NEARS, LEGISLATORS CONCERNED SOUTHSIDE MAY BE BRUSHED OFF WITH MORE EMPHASIS ON NORTHERN PART OF STATE

Jan 6, 2020 - Local legislators’ concerns with the new Democratic majority in both chambers of the General Assembly are not just partisan, but regional. “These majorities comprise of mostly people from Northern Virginia,” said state Sen. Bill Stanley, R-Moneta. The worry is Southside Virginia... Read More

DANVILLE AREA LEADERS REACT TO NORTHAM'S PROPOSAL TO DECRIMINALIZE SIMPLE POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA

Jan 3, 2020 - In the view of Del. Danny Marshall, R- Danville, marijuana is a drug just like alcohol, which is why he supports the decriminalization of marijuana proposed by Gov. Ralph Northam. “This is a step that’s comfortable for me at this particular point,” he said of voting in favor of the proposal. On Friday morning... Read More

ALTAVISTA JOURNAL: YEAR IN REVIEW 2019

Dec 31, 2019 - January 2, 2019. Michael Lee Langford accusing of shooting to death Carlton Rosser Stratton on Christmas Day. Sew Sisters make mittens for dialysis center. Shop with a Cop program is another big success... Read More

MARTIN’S LIFE, LEGACY HONORED BY STATE OFFICIALS

Dec 20, 2019 - Del. Les Adams, R-Chatham, honored the family of the late Fred Thomas Martin, Sr., with a resolution in front of Martin Plaza in uptown Martinsville on Dec. 17. Addressing the family and local representatives, Adams said... Read More

STATE HONORS LATE MARTINSVILLE BUSINESSMAN FRED MARTIN, A MAN WHO 'PUT HIS MONEY WHERE HIS MOUTH WAS.'

Dec 17, 2019 - Fred Thomas Martin Sr. passed away in September 2018, but on a cold and rainy Tuesday in front of the old Globman building, now the Martin Plaza in uptown Martinsville, state Del. Les Adams (R-Chatham) and other dignitaries presented to Martin’s family... Read More

NCI BOARD EXTENDS CONTRACT OF INTERIM DIRECTOR KAREN JACKSON

Dec 3, 2019 - New College Institute Interim Director Karen Jackson has been hired on for another year in that capacity. “We’re very excited to have Karen Jackson for another year,” NCI board member Richard Hall... Read More

PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY BECOMES SECOND AMENDMENT SANCTUARY BY UNANIMOUS BOARD VOTE

Nov 19, 2019 -The Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors unanimously adopted a resolution Tuesday, Nov. 19 declaring the county a second amendment sanctuary. Citizens who attended the standing-room-only meeting to witness what some of the supervisors called a ‘historic’ vote for the county cheered and... Read More

ENDING WITHOUT A BANG: CRIME COMMISSION'S REPORT ON GUN VIOLENCE GIVES NO RECOMMENDATIONS

Nov 12, 2019 - After months of studying the causes of gun violence, the Virginia State Crime Commission issued a report with no recommendations on how to curb the deadly toll in Virginia. Gov. Ralph Northam called for a special session... Read More

SOUTHSIDE VIRGINIA REPUBLICANS: WE WILL CONTINUE TO FIGHT FOR CONSTITUENTS

Nov 9, 2019 - The Democrats will be in full control of Virginia’s state legislature for the first time in 26 years when the new session begins in January. No one in the re-elected delegation of Republicans serving Martinsville, Danville, Henry County, Patrick County and Franklin counties has experienced anything like it. Del. Danny Marshall of the 14th District in the Virginia House said... Read More

SOUTHSIDE REPUBLICANS SURVIVE “BLUE WAVE” ON ELECTION DAY

Nov 7, 2019 - All of the Republican incumbents representing Martinsville and Henry County in the state legislature kept their seats in the Nov. 5 election, as a “blue wave” of Democrats took control of the General Assembly. Democratic lawmakers now hold majorities... Read More

ELECTION 2016: ADAMS FIGHTS OFF LIBERTARIAN NEWCOMER

Nov 5, 2019 - Les Adams (R-Pittsylvania County) will return to Richmond to represent the 16th District House of Delegates after handily defeating Libertarian candidate Dustin Evans. “It’s a tremendous privilege to represent the people of this district,” said Adams. “I’ve never taken it for granted." Adams easily defeated... Read More

LIVE BLOG: VIRGINIA ELECTION RESULTS 2019 [DEMS TAKE HOUSE AND SENATE, WIN KEY RACES IN PRINCE WILLIAM, LOUDOUN, ETC.]

Nov 5, 2019 - UPDATE #7 Thursday 8:19 pm – It turns out that Josh King lost the PW County Sheriff’s race. Barely, but still. Bummer. UPDATE #6 Wednesday am – Loudoun County is now officially Democratic “blue,” with a HUGE win for County Board Chair (Phyllis Randall demolished Republican John Whitbeck by an incredible 17.5 points!) and a win for... Read More

ELECTION DAY 2019

Nov 5, 2019 - Senate District 20, Independent takes on incumbent. House District 14, Newcomer Dem faces incumbent. House District 16 Incumbent faces Libertarian challenge... Read More

VOTER TURNOUT HITS 20 PERCENT IN CITY, COUNTY AT NOON

Nov 5, 2019 - Voters across Pittsylvania County and the City of Danville are heading to the polls today, Nov. 5 to cast their ballots for supervisors, members of the General Assembly, town elections, and referendums. Pittsylvania County Registrar Kelly Bailess and Danville Registrar Peggy Petty both reported... Read More

ELECTION DAY RESULTS

Nov 5, 2019 - 6th District - Jeffrey Campbell (R), 7th District - Nick Rush (R), 8th District - Joseph McNamara (R), 12th District - Chris Hurst (D)... Read More

INCUMBENTS CRUISE IN STATE ELECTIONS

Nov 5, 2019 - Incumbent Republicans cruised to victory in each of the four state-level elections involving Danville or Pittsylvania County: seats for the 14th and 16th district with the House of Delegates and the 15th and 20th districts in... Read More

REPUBLICAN DEL. LES ADAMS WINS RE-ELECTION IN DISTRICT 16

Nov 5, 2019 - The voice of District 16 in the House of Delegates will continue to be Del. Les R. Adams. Since joining the House in 2014, Adams has served on the Courts of Justice Committee, the Privileges and Elections Committee, the Transportation Committee, the Science and Technology Committee, and... Read More

VOTING IS YOUR DUTY AS A CITIZEN

Nov 5, 2019 - By now, you may just want it all to come to an end so your favorite TV shows aren’t littered with political ads, your mailbox filled with fliers for the candidates and the Opinion page of your local newspaper back to “normal” without all the election-related letters... Read More

VOTING IS YOUR DUTY AS A CITIZEN

ELECTION RESULTS FOR HENRY COUNTY, PATRICK COUNTY AND MARTINSVILLE

Nov 4, 2019 - General Assembly Senate District 20 i-William Stanley (R) 69.6% Sherman D. Witcher Sr. (I) 30%... Read More

IN DANVILLE, OFF-TRACK BETTING, CLERK OF COURT, STATE RACES WILL GREET VOTERS WHEN HEADING TO POLLS TUESDAY

Nov 3, 2019 - Danville’s registrar said her office is prepared for Dan River Region voters to head to the polls Tuesday. “Everything’s locked up and ready to roll out to the precincts,” Registrar Peggy Petty said Sunday. City voters will decide whether they want to allow off-track horse betting in the city. They also will choose among... Read More

GENERAL ELECTION TO BE HELD TUESDAY

Oct 30, 2019 - Voters in Martinsville and Henry County will head to the polls on Tuesday, Nov. 5 to cast ballots in the General Election. Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. in Martinsville and Henry County. Voters are reminded... Read More

SANDY THE BLOGGER ENDORSEMENTS FOR GENERAL ASSEMBLY

Oct 26, 2019 - The Sanders the Blogger endorsements are simple in the General Assembly races this year: A Republican against a Democrat – Vote Republican. Just that simple. Yes even the... Read More

BUSINESS OWNERS ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO VOTE

Oct 17, 2019 - We would like to take this opportunity to ask that you take advantage of the privilege to vote extended to all of us by our forefathers and preserved by our men and women of The United States Armed Forces. As you consider carefully which candidate... Read More

WHY WE NEED LES IN RICHMOND

Oct 17, 2019 - When I first called Les Adams’s office, I was a 16-year-old high school student who wanted to become further involved in politics and gain skills that would help me in my future. Les generously offered to give me the chance to work as an intern in both his legal... Read More

CHATHAM MAYOR SUPPORTS ADAMS FOR HOUSE OF DELEGATES

Oct 17, 2019 - On Nov. 5, residents of Pittsylvania County will head to the polls to elect a member of the Virginia House of Delegates. When it comes to electing our representative for the 16th District in the House of Delegates, I strongly support Les Adams as he is by far the most qualified person... Read More

FOUR LIBERTY GRADUATES RUN FOR THE HOUSE OF DELEGATES IN NOV. 5 ELECTION

Oct 14, 2019 - Four of the candidates running for a seat in the Virginia House of Delegates in the Nov. 5 election graduated from a Liberty University undergraduate program or the Liberty University School of Law. We featured the four Liberty alumni’s answers to a series of four questions we asked... Read More

REGISTER TO VOTE; DON'T PROCRASTINATE

Oct 4, 2019 - Election Day 2019 is just 32 days away, but it’s never too soon to get prepared to do your civic duty. On Tuesday, Nov. 5, Virginians will go to the polls to elect a variety of state and local officials. All 100 seats in the House of Delegates and all 40 seats in the state Senate... Read More

OUR VIEW: REGISTER TO VOTE; DON'T PROCRASTINATE

Oct 3, 2019 - Election Day 2019 is just 32 days away, but it’s never too soon to get prepared to do your civic duty. On Tuesday, Nov. 5, Virginians will go to the polls to elect a variety of state and local officials. All 100 seats in the House of Delegates and all 40 seats in the state Senate... Read More

TEAL-JONES GROUP TO INVEST $21 MILLION, CREATE 67 NEW JOBS IN HENRY COUNTY

Sep 25, 2019 - Gov. Ralph Northam announced Wednesday that The Teal-Jones Group, a lumber company in Canada that operates Pine Products Inc. in Henry County, will invest... Read More

WHOLESALE STORE NOW OPEN FOR BUSINESS

Sep 23, 2019 - Howell’s Wholesale in Martinsville is officially open for business, with a ribbon cutting held at the store on Tuesday, Sept. 17. Richard and Patricia Howell own and operate the wholesale store... Read More

GRETNA RESCUE SQUAD HONORED FOR 50 YEARS

Sep 18, 2019 - Many members of Gretna Fire and Rescue turned out Thursday to be on hand when Delegate Les Adams presented a congressional resolution in honor of 50 years of service... Read More

DEL. ADAMS PRESENTS RESOLUTION TO GRETNA FIRE AND RESCUE

Sep 13, 2019 - Delegate Les Adams presented a resolution for 50 years of service to the Gretna Rescue Squad on Thursday, Sept. 12. Gretna Fire and Rescue departments... Read More

AGPAC ENDORSES 126 CANDIDATES FOR GENERAL ASSEMBLY SEATS

Aug 23, 2019 - Virginia Farm Bureau Federation AgPAC, Farm Bureau’s political action committee, announced its endorsement of 39 candidates for the Virginia Senate and 87 candidates for the Virginia House of Delegates... Read More

GUN DEBATE RETURNS TO VIRGINIA CAPITOL

Aug 19, 2019 - Virginia’s battle over gun violence picks up again in Richmond Monday and Tuesday, as the group that Republicans have designated to consider all of the measures proposed during a special session meets to discuss... Read More

LOCAL RACES HEATING UP IN PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY

Aug 9, 2019 - With elections for many county positions rapidly approaching on Nov. 5, many candidates — both incumbent and newcomers — are running unopposed. Of the four constitutional officer positions in this election... Read More

IT’S DEL. LES ADAMS IN THE 16TH!

Aug 7, 2019 - I am well aware that Del. Les Adams (R-16th House District – all or parts of Pittsylvania, Henry County and City of Martinsville) has a Libertarian opponent. And I do believe it is good for the polity and Del. Adams to have an... Read More

REGION'S STATE LEGISLATORS QUESTION NORTHAM'S MOTIVE IN SPECIAL SESSION: GUN VIOLENCE OR POLITICS?

July 6, 2019 - As Del. Charles Poindexter sees it, Gov. Ralph Northam’s calling a special session of the General Assembly to address gun violence “is nothing but a political move to get him out of the doghouse.” Similarly, Del. Danny Marshall said... Read More

JOAN ZIGLAR'S SWEARING IN AS JUDGE

Jun 24, 2019 - Joan Ziglar was sworn in last month as a district court judge for the 21st Judicial District, which includes courts in Henry and Patrick counties and the city of Martinsville. Circuit Court Judge David V. Williams administered the... Read More

AS URANIUM MINING BAN UPHELD BY HIGHEST COURT IN THE LAND, COMPANY PRESIDENT VOWS TO CONTINUE FIGHT

Jun 17, 2019 - Walter Coles Sr. said, despite the U.S. Supreme Court’s unfavorable ruling, he is not giving up. “We continue to think that Virginia’s uranium mining ban is both unlawful and unwise, and we are resolved to pursue other challenges to the... Read More

A PRESERVATION OF AFRICAN-AMERICAN SERVICE IN MARTINSVILLE

May 27, 2019 - Latin words meaning “it is sweet and proper to die for one’s country” are inscribed on the base of the amphitheater at Arlington National Cemetery, but that saying is not entirely true, Eric Monday said. "Those are inspiring words,” Monday, the Martinsville city attorney, told the crowd... Read More

SUTHERLIN PRODUCER NAMED DISTINGUISHED FARM BUREAU WOMAN

Apr 22, 2019 - Virginia Farm Bureau Federation honored Gayle Barts, of Sutherlin, as inaugural recipient of the Distinguished Farm Bureau Woman award March 30 at its annual Women’s Spring Conference in Bristol. The award was introduced... Read More

FARM BUREAU HONORS THREE WOMEN FOR IMPACT ON AGRICULTURE, COMMUNITIES

Apr 20, 2019 - BRISTOL, Va. — Virginia Farm Bureau Federation recognized three women on March 30 for their service to and accomplishments in agriculture and their communities. The organization held its annual Women’s Spring Conference March 29-31. Megan Seibel of Botetourt County... Read More

LEGISLATIVE LEADERS COME TO MARTINSVILLE AND TALK TAXES, SCHOOL SAFETY AND SUCCESS STORIES

Apr 19, 2019 - Tax-reduction legislation was one of the General Assembly’s biggest achievements, and state legislators who spoke at the Martinsville-Henry County Post-Legislative Luncheon on Thursday, used that forum to tout their accomplishment. That legislation, which fed off the... Read More

CASINO WOULD SEND MESSAGE THAT DANVILLE IS DYING, STANLEY SAYS

Apr 8, 2019 - Bringing a casino to Danville would send the wrong message, state Sen. Bill Stanley said Monday morning during a breakfast held at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research. “When you get a casino in Danville, you are in a sense saying, ‘I give up,’” Stanley told the roughly... Read More

CHALLENGER STEPS UP TO SQUARE OFF WITH RUFF IN GOP PRIMARY

Mar 23, 2019-After serving for 21 years with the Virginia State Police, Chase City resident Dale Sturdifen decided to trade his badge for a spot on the ballot come June 11. A member of Mecklenburg’s Republican committee, Sturdifen said he decided to challenge... Read More

FOUR REPUBLICANS WHO COMPRISE HENRY/PATRICK LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION EXPLAIN THEIR SUCCESSES (TAX CUTS) AND THEIR FRUSTRATIONS (EXECUTIVE BRANCH TURMOIL).

Mar 11, 2019-The state legislators who represent you in Richmond want you to know this: Tax-reduction legislation was one of the General Assembly’s biggest achievements during its recent short session. “The most pressing issue was to conform Virginia’s tax code to the Trump... Read More

STATE APPROPRIATES $100K FOR COST-SAVINGS STUDY FOR DAMS

Mar 5, 2019-The Virginia General Assembly approved the appropriation of $100,000 to fund a cost-savings study for the rehabilitation of the Cherrystone and Roaring Fork dams this session. The funds were approved after Del. Les Adams, R-Chatham, filed the request, according to a press release from his office. Currently, the USDA... Read More

DELEGATE ADAMS SECURES STATE FUNDING FOR LOCAL DAM STUDY

Mar 5, 2019-Delegate Les Adams, R-Chatham, announced Tuesday, March 5 that the General Assembly has approved his request for the appropriation of $100,000 in state funds to identify cost saving solutions for the required rehabilitation of the Cherrystone and Roaring Fork Dams. Estimates supplied by... Read More

MULTI-YEAR DISPUTE IN PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY LEADS TO STATE BILL EXPLICITLY INCLUDING NURSERIES UNDER TAX EXEMPTION

Feb 27, 2019-GRETNA — A bill amendment came in response to a multi-year battle between a Gretna nursery and Pittsylvania County over whether the nursery’s farm equipment should be taxed. The Virginia General Assembly unanimously voted to amend its personal property tax exemption for... Read More

NEWLY CHOSEN JUDGES IN HENRY/PATRICK COUNTIES SAY THEY ARE READY FOR THE BENCH

Feb 23, 2019-The jury was still out, if you will, on Friday about how some of the area’s four newly elected judges will celebrate their ascension. Kimberly Belongia, Joan Ziglar and Marcus Brinks said they hadn’t really celebrated yet, and Jimmy McGarry said he celebrated “in a ... Read More

IT'S OFFICIAL: 4 NEW JUDGES CHOSEN TO SERVE HENRY AND PATRICK COUNTIES

Feb 22, 2019-The 21st Judicial District officially has four new judges who will take the bench later this year. The House of Delegates on Thursday approved motions by Del. Les Adams to elect four new judges for the 21st Judicial District and end weeks of speculation about who should ascend to the bench. A few hours later, ... Read More

HENRY/PATRICK DISTRICT JUDGES DOWN TO 2 OUT OF 3

Feb 20, 2019-A state legislative panel has certified Martinsville lawyer Kelli A. Krumenacker and Martinsville commonwealth’s attorney Joan Ziglar as qualified to serve as General District Court judges, state Sen. Bill Stanley said Tuesday. The Senate Committee for Courts of Justice and the House Judicial Panel previously had... Read More

TWO CONTENDERS GO THROUGH INTERVIEWS FOR JUDGE POST

Feb 18, 2019-A state legislative panel was expected to interview candidates for potential judgeship Monday evening. Joan Ziglar, a former Martinsville commonwealth’s attorney, and Martinsville lawyer Kelli A. Krumenacker are the latest contenders for the General District Court judgeship in the 21st... Read More

WITH MONDAY OUT OF THE PICTURE, WHAT'S NEXT IN JUDGESHIPS IN HENRY, PATRICK COUNTIES?

Feb 17, 2019-Legislators are looking for a new candidate to fill open positions to serve the 21st Judicial District. The surprise announcement on Thursday by Martinsville City Attorney Eric Monday that was withdrawing from consideration apparently opened — or reopened — the door to others who may have been interested in... Read More

'WELL-ORGANIZED CAMPAIGN' FORCED ERIC MONDAY TO WITHDRAW FROM JUDICIAL RACE IN HENRY/PATRICK DISTRICT

Feb 15, 2019-Martinsville City Attorney Eric Monday surprisingly withdrew from consideration for a judgeship in the 21st Judicial District, saying attacks on his candidacy had destroyed his desire to serve. Monday announced his decision Thursday afternoon in a statement he emailed to... Read More

MONDAY WITHDRAWS FROM CONSIDERATION FOR JUDGESHIP IN HENRY, PATRICK COUNTIES

Feb 14, 2019-Martinsville City Attorney Eric Monday has withdrawn from consideration by the General Assembly for a judgeship in the 21st Judicial District. He made his announcement Thursday in a statement he mailed to the Bulletin. Del. Les Adams (R-Chatham)... Read More

FOUR CERTIFIED BY GENERAL ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE TO FILL OPENINGS IN 21ST JUDICIAL DISTRICT

Feb 13, 2019-One of the state legislators overseeing the selection of three judges for the 21st Judicial District said Tuesday that four people have been interviewed and certified to serve. Assemblyman Les Adams (R-Chatham), chairman of the House subcommittee that... Read More

COUNTY, CITY TEACHERS RECOUNT EXPERIENCE AT MONDAY’S RALLY IN RICHMOND

Jan 30, 2019-Several Pittsylvania teachers and one Danville teacher joined thousands of others on the steps of the Capitol in Richmond on Monday to rally for improving the state’s investment in public education. Pittsylvania Education Association President Jessica Jones, an agriculture teacher at Tunstall High School, said ... Read More

HOUSE SUBCOMMITTEE KILLS STUDENT CENSORSHIP BILL

Jan 28, 2019-Virginia schools and colleges can still censor student media. A House of Delegates subcommittee on Monday killed a bill from Del. Chris Hurst, D-Montgomery, that would have added free speech protections to student journalists. The bill failed on a 3-3 vote. Read More

GENERAL ASSEMBLY APPROVES MEASURE TO ADD JUDGES FOR REGION

Jan 27, 2019-Virginia’s Sixteenth Judicial Circuit will soon get two new judges following the passage of a joint resolution by the General Assembly. On Jan. 16, both the House of Delegates and Virginia Senate... Read More

BILLS SEEK STATE MAINTENANCE MONEY FOR MORE HISTORIC AFRICAN-AMERICAN CEMETERIES

Jan 22, 2019- As the 2019 session of Virginia’s General Assembly ramps into full gear, state lawmakers are considering a handful of bills that would add at least 10 historic African-American cemeteries to the roster of black burial grounds eligible to receive maintenance funds from the state. Read More

AS GENERAL ASSEMBLY DEBATES TAX PLAN, RESULTS COULD HAVE REAL IMPACT ON SOUTHSIDE

Jan 18, 2019 A little over a year after the federal Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, taxes are at the forefront of legislators minds during the short 2019 General Assembly session. In addition to deciding whether to conform with the federal tax code, the General Assembly... Read More

VIRGINIA DELEGATE PRESENTS A RESOLUTION IN MEMORY OF CARTER BANK & TRUST’S FOUNDER, WORTH HARRIS CARTER JR.

Dec 28, 2018-Carter Bank & Trust (OTCQX:CARE) announced today that Virginia Delegate Les Adams, representing the 16th House District, recently presented a Virginia General Assembly Joint Resolution, honoring the life of its founder, Worth Harris Carter Jr. Read More

COUNCIL HONORS FORMER MAYOR, APPROVES PIPELINE RIGHT OF WAY

November 14, 2018- Chatham Town Council members voted Monday night, Nov. 12, to unanimously approve a pipeline right of way and easement agreement between the town and Mountain Valley Pipeline, LLC (MVP). The agreement, in the amount of $60,000, will allow MVP to have the right of way for 506 feet of pipeline through a roughly six-acre site owned by the town off Chalk Level Road. Read More

TOBACCO COMMISSION HELPS MUSEUM FUND PAVILION PROJECT

October 4, 2018- The Virginia Museum of Natural History is one step closer to finishing its outdoor pavilion project, thanks to a state grant. The Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission gave the museum a $75,000 grant to help build the project, which would be a multi-use covered structure with exhibits focused on neighboring J. Frank Wilson Memorial Park. Read More

MONOGRAM FOOD SOLUTIONS ANNOUNCES $30 MILLION EXPANSION IN HENRY COUNTY

September 19, 2018- A food manufacturer announced plans Wednesday to expand its existing presence in Henry County. Monogram Food Solutions, a Memphis-based manufacturer of processed meats, is investing $30 million to expand its facility in the Henry County Patriot Centre Industrial Park. Read More

PATHS ANNOUNCES EXPANSION

September 13, 2018- It was announced on Wednesday, Sept. 12 at Reid Street Art Gallery in Chatham that Piedmont Access to Health Services (PATHS) is investing nearly $3,000,000 in an expansion in the former Hampco building. The expansion will allow PATHS to double in square footage and create 21 new full time jobs. Read More

CHATHAM COUNCIL DISCUSSES PIPELINE, COUNCIL CHANGES

August 15, 2018- A familiar face was appointed to Chatham town council Monday night to serve until the November 6 election is certified. Jim McDole, who is a former town councilman, was appointed to council Monday night, August 13 to fill an empty seat after Will Pace was appointed interim mayor and will serve on the ordinance, personnel, police and fire, and water and sewer committees. Read More

OFFICIALS GATHER AT INSTITUTE TO DISCUSS SCHOOL SAFETY

July 18, 2018- Virginia Delegates Danny Marshal, Les Adams and James Edmunds organized a public meeting for K–12 school safety at the Institute for Advanced Learning Research on Tuesday afternoon. Read More

LOCAL DELEGATION RAISES CONCERNS OVER PLANNED HOSPITAL TAX

July 10, 2018- Virginia Delegate Charles Poindexter said on Tuesday that he expects insurance premiums to increase for local residents. Speaking at the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce’s Post-Legislative Luncheon, Poindexter said he believes hospitals affected by a new tax will pass those costs on to consumers. Read More

CHATHAM HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT EARN SCHOLARSHIPS

July 1, 2018- Three students from Chatham High School have been selected as the recipients of $1,000 scholarships awarded by Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative for excellence in both academic achievement and community involvement. Read More

IN A FINAL TRIBUTE, HEARSE CARRYING ASSISTANT COMMONWEALTH’S ATTORNEY PAUSES FOR 27 SECONDS IN FRONT OF COURTHOUSE

June 14, 2018- Friends and co-workers of Chad Michael Atchison recalled him as an energetic young Pittsylvania County prosecutor with a mischievous sense of humor and a bright future ahead of him. Read More

MEMORIAL DAY SERVICE IN DANVILLE SALUTES FALLEN AMERICAN HEROES

May 27, 2018- Thousands of simple, white headstones line neat rows at Danville National Cemetery, bearing witness to the sacrifices made by veterans of wars harking back more than 150 years. Read More

MANY IN DAN RIVER REGION TAKING WAIT-AND-SEE APPROACH AS SUPREME COURT DIVES INTO URANIUM DEBATE

May 24, 2018- Few people are betting on how the question of uranium mining will play out in the halls of the United States Supreme Court, which agreed earlier this week to take up the issue. Read More

NCI BOARD HEARS ABOUT A DEGREE'S IMPACT

May 17, 2018- Melvin Johnson credits his college education with allowing him to give back to a community he loves. Johnson, 53, spoke to the New College Institute (NCI) Board of Directors at the board’s meeting on Thursday. On Saturday, Johnson will receive his degree in social work through Longwood University and NCI. Read More

PAYING TRIBUTE: BASSETT HIGH HONORS MATTOX WITH DEDICATION

May 1, 2018- Late school board member and life-long educator Bessie “Betsy” Mattox was honored Monday at Bassett High School. Following a ceremony honoring Mattox in the high school’s auditorium, a plaque was revealed dedicating Bassett High’s Fine Arts Wing to Mattox. Read More

PORTION OF BASSETT HIGH SCHOOL DEDICATED TO LONGTIME HENRY COUNTY EDUCATOR

April 30, 2018- Bassett High School in Henry County is honoring a former Henry County teacher. On Monday afternoon, a ceremony was held to dedicate the school's Fine Arts wing in memory of Betsy Mattox. She held numerous positions within the school district for 41 years and was also a school board member. Read More

TRACING ROOTS TO 1958, RINGGOLD ORGANIZATION CELEBRATES 60 YEARS OF GROWTH, SERVICE

April 28, 2018- Ringgold Volunteer Fire and Rescue — Pittsylvania County’s first rural fire department — celebrated six decades of growth and service to the community Saturday. Read More

DELEGATE TOURS PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY SCHOOLS TO HEAR SAFETY CONCERNS

April 24, 2018- Delegate Danny Marshall, of Danville, toured two Pittsylvania County elementary schools on Tuesday to talk to county staff about school safety. Principals at Brosville Elementary and Stony Mill Elementary pointed out what they thought were the weakest areas of the school’s security system, and Superintendent Mark Jones and Assistant Superintendent Jeff Early answered questions about county policy surrounding school safety. Read More

LOCAL RESIDENTS CONSIDER THE LEGACY OF BARBARA BUSH

April 19, 2018- Some area current and former officials remember former first lady Barbara Pierce Bush as a strong woman, a down-to-earth but dignified, family-oriented, advocate for literacy. She died Tuesday at the age of 92 at home. Read More

HOW EDUCATION BILLS FARED THIS VIRGINIA GENERAL ASSEMBLY SESSION

March 17, 2018- The Virginia General Assembly will reconvene next month to carve out a budget, an act that will have major impact on education in the state. The House of Delegates version of the budget, which includes Medicaid expansion, allocates more state funding per student than the Senate’s, with a salary increase taking effect July 1, 2019. Read More

EXPANSION OF MEDICAID

February 28, 2018- The Virginia General Assembly is now in the final weeks of its regular session for 2018. The House and Senate continue its work on legislation originating from the opposite chamber, and in this budget year, each has now presented its proposal for this biennium. Read More

BILL AIMS TO HELP LURE BUSINESS INVESTMENT IN DAN RIVER REGION

February 22, 2018- A bill in the General Assembly could provide a financial break for large companies looking to invest in Virginia, particularly in the Dan River Region. The bill would allow qualified businesses looking to invest in specific localities to not owe property or payroll taxes to the state from 2018 to 2028. Read More

BILLS STARTING TO CROSS OVER

February 21, 2018- The General Assembly is now engaged in the work following “crossover,” with each respective body considering the successful legislation passed by the other. In the days that follow, important decisions will be made which determine the precise Acts of Assembly to thereafter be presented to the governor for his signature, amendment or veto. Read More

SENATE COMMITTEE PUNTS ON SCHOOL BUS ADVERTISING, 'KINGS DOMINION BILL'

February 15, 2018- A Senate committee on Thursday punted on a bill that would allow state school systems to sell commercial advertising on their buses as schools continue to struggle with funding. The bill had passed the House of Delegates, but was continued to the 2019 General Assembly session in an 11-4 vote. Read More

COMPROMISE REACHED ON RAISING FELONY THRESHOLD FROM $200 TO $500

February 8, 2018- State lawmakers announced a bipartisan compromise Thursday that will raise the dollar value for when a petty theft becomes a felony, a measure that has for years died in the House of Delegates. Read More

WORKING ON K-12 EDUCATION

January 31, 2018- Late last week I participated with other legislators in a budget briefing with the Chairman and staff of the Appropriations Committee. At this small group meeting I raised specific concerns related to Southside Virginia in a discussion about priorities for this session. Read More

SCHOOLS TO START BEFORE LABOR DAY? VA. HOUSE TO VOTE ON ‘KINGS DOMINION LAW’ CHANGES

January 30, 2018- Virginia students and teachers could go back to school well before Labor Day every year under a pair of proposals due for a vote Tuesday in the House of Delegates. Under one proposal, local school boards would get complete discretion to set their school calendars. Read More

WITHOUT MEDICAID EXPANSION, DANVILLE RESIDENT CAUGHT IN MIDDLE

January 27, 2018- Danville resident and cancer survivor Margaret Lipford said she started paying into the system more than 30 years ago. For decades, she worked at Dan River Mills, putting part of her salary into Social Security, Medicare and other federal entitlement programs. Read More

ADAMS VOTES AGAINST LICENSE PLATE BILL

January 25, 2018- A new bill would allow opponents of gun violence to get a special license plate, according to Virginia’s legislative information system website. House Bill 287, which was sponsored by Del. Marcus B. Simon (D-House District 53) and Sen. Adam P. Ebbin (D-Senate District 30), would allow Virginia residents to obtain license plates that bear the legend “STOP GUN VIOLENCE.” Read More

FIXING SALARIES STILL TOP PRIORITY FOR PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY SCHOOLS

January 25, 2018- The Pittsylvania County School Board’s budget committee approved a list of priorities Thursday that includes a $4.3 million implementation of a study to boost pay for educators. Read More

MARTINSVILLE, HENRY COUNTY SUPPORT VIRGINIA TAX BREAK PROPOSAL

January 24, 2018- Local officials are supporting proposed legislation that would give companies a tax break for creating jobs in economically distressed communities during the next 10 years. Read More

CRAFTING LEGISLATION GUIDEPOSTS

January 24, 2018- The people’s work at the 2018 session of the Virginia General Assembly is now well underway. Dozens of bills have been addressed in the standing committees. Some legislation has already made its way to the floor of the House where, despite the political divide, the parties are compelled to act on the business of statecraft. Read More

LAWMAKERS HOPEFUL OF COLLABORATION THIS SESSION

January 14, 2018- Lawmakers from the Dan River Region said they hope to maintain a sense of bipartisanship and problem-solving during the 2018 General Assembly session after a Democratic Party wave election in November. Read More

HENRY COUNTY DOCTORS, RELIGIOUS LEADERS SPEAK OUT IN SUPPORT OF MEDICAID EXPANSION

December 2, 2017- On Friday, the Martinville/Henry County chapter of Virginia Organizing held a media conference on Medicaid expansion at First United Methodist Church in Martinsville. The event featured several different speakers who shared their perspectives and stories. Read More

MARTINSVILLE CANDIDATES SHARE THOUGHTS ON ELECTION

November 8, 2017- Despite being defeated in his bid to become the city’s sheriff, Jackie Dillard thinks he fared well in Tuesday’s election, considering he was a political newcomer who challenged a popular incumbent with more than 20 years of experience. Read More

FARMER, CRUMP NAB SEATS: COUNTY GOES REPUBLICAN; CITY VOTES DEMOCRATIC

November 8, 2017- As of press time Tuesday night, statewide results in the 2017 General Election were incomplete. However, in Pittsylvania County, Republican candidates for state offices carried the vote; while in the City of Danville, Democratic candidates were leading. Read More

VOGEL ROUSES DANVILLE REPUBLICANS IN LAST-MINUTE DASH

November 6, 2017- With mere hours before polls open, Republican candidate for lieutenant governor Jill Vogel pumped up the Danville GOP faithful in a rally Monday afternoon. Read More

UNCONTESTED RACES IN DANVILLE 'KIND OF NORMAL' REGISTRAR SAYS

November 5, 2017- Not all elections are about choice. At least that’s the case with the uncontested races in the Dan River Region on Tuesday. Read More

STATE AND LOCAL RACES TAKE CENTER STAGE IN TUESDAY'S ELECTION

November 5, 2017- All voters in Martinsville, Henry County and Patrick County will join their counterparts statewide in electing a governor, lieutenant governor and state attorney general. The area’s three House of Delegates seats also are up for grabs, but only one incumbent is being challenged. Read More

FOUR NEW CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD

November 3, 2017- Four new candidates and two old hands will be vying for three Pittsylvania County School Board seats up for re-election on Tuesday. Read More

NEXT STEPS: LOCAL GROUPS LOOK TO PROTECT DOMESTIC ABUSE VICTIMS

October 15, 2017- How can we protect victims of domestic violence? After a recent town hall discussion on the subject, several local groups are taking steps to make changes, both to tweak processes and get help from the faith community. Read More

A COMMUNITY CONVERSATION: MARTINSVILLE MURDER TRIGGERS DISCUSSION OVER DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

October 3, 2017- How can you help someone that’s in an abusive relationship? Is there anything you can do to stop that relationship from ending in death? Those are some of the questions that will be discussed Thursday, during a community forum. Read More

THE START OF A TREND IN RICHMOND?

September 19, 2017- When the Virginia Conflict of Interest and Ethics Advisory Council released data from the 2016-17 legislative reporting year, something interesting emerged from the numbers. Read More

RPV CONDEMNS BIGOTED REMARKS BY TOM PERRIELLO

August 22, 2017- Over the past weekend former Democrat congressman and former gubernatorial candidate, Tom Perriello, made several disturbing statements directed toward Evangelical Christians in general and Jerry Falwell Jr., President of Liberty University, specifically. Read More

GILLESPIE UNVEILS BROADBAND PLAN IN AXTON

August 8, 2017- On Tuesday, Gillespie, the Republican candidate for governor, announced his five point plan for expanded high-speed internet at a media event held at AC Furniture Company in Axton. Read More

NEW FACES VIE FOR COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD SEATS

July 31, 2017- A handful of new candidates and two incumbents will be seeking three Pittsylvania County School Board seats up for election this November. Read More

FORESHADOW LARGER CANNABIS POLICY CHANGES

July 6, 2017- In May 2017, Gov. McAuliffe had a signing ceremony for Senator Adam Ebbin’s Senate bill 784 and Delegate Les Adams’ House bill 2051. Read More

NEW 'FUTURE' INTERSTATE SIGNS GOING UP IN DANVILLE

June 27, 2017- Road signs that say Future 785 Corridor will once again dot the sides of Highway 29 in Danville. Signs were put up in 1998, but according to Danville's mayor they were removed several years ago, likely because of snow removal. Read More

‘FUTURE I-785 CORRIDOR’ SIGNS RETURN TO DANVILLE AS ‘A SYMBOL OF A PROMISE’

June 27, 2017- Highways signs reading “Future I-785 Corridor” have been reinstalled along the U.S. 29 bypass from the Virginia-North Carolina border to its intersection at U.S. 58. Read More

PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY CELEBRATES 250TH ANNIVERSARY

June 17, 2017- Pittsylvania County residents decked out in replica Revolutionary and Civil War-era clothing gathered outside the county's courthouse in Chatham Saturday to hear state Delegate Les Adams, a Pittsylvania County native himself, read a resolution from the state General Assembly recognizing the milestone. Read More

CELEBRATING 250TH ANNIVERSARY, LAWMAKER SAYS PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY

June 17, 2017- Pittsylvania County celebrated its 250th anniversary Saturday with activities and a proclamation from the General Assembly read by Delegate Les Adams. Read More

PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY CELEBRATES 250 YEARS

June 15, 2017- This year Pittsylvania County celebrates 250 years! On Saturday there are big plans to recognize this milestone. Read More

PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY TO CELEBRATE 250TH ANNIVERSARY SATURDAY

June 15, 2017- Pittsylvania County will celebrate its 250th anniversary Saturday, thanks to a joint effort between Pittsylvania Historical Society, Chatham First and Chatham Rotary Club. Read More

SUPERVISOR RON SCEARCE NEVER SAW HIMSELF IN POLITICS

June 11, 2017- Westover District Supervisor Ron Scearce was never really sure what he wanted to do, but he’s OK with the path his life has taken. Read More

PRIMARY QUESTIONS: CANDIDATES FOR GOVERNOR TALK ABOUT SOUTHSIDE

June 10, 2017- Earlier this month, we sent five questions to all of the candidates competing to be their party's nominee in the Virginia governor's race. They're ranked in the order we received them. Read More

COUNTY PARKS & REC CUTS RIBBON

June 9, 2017- The Pittsylvania County Parks and Recreation Department offices at The Community Center, Chatham, had its ceremonial ribbon cutting on Wednesday, May 31. Read More

PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY CELEBRATES 250 YEARS

June 1, 2017- It's time for one hometown to get out the party hats and celebrate a big milestone. Pittsylvania County 250th anniversary is June 1. Read More

EASTMAN ANNOUNCES EXPANSION PLANS IN HENRY COUNTY

May 30, 2017- Eastman Chemical will invest $11.7 million to expand its manufacturing in Henry County, adding 15 new jobs in the process. Read More

PAYING TRIBUTE: FALLEN SOLDIERS HONORED IN MARTINSVILLE CEREMONY

May 29, 2017- Military veterans buried in People’s Cemetery need to be remembered, just like those who are interred elsewhere and who have risked or sacrificed their lives to protect the nation from harm, according to Del. Les Adams. Read More

MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY HELD IN MARTINSVILLE

May 29, 2017- Martinsville had its own ceremony at the People's Cemetery Monday morning. Complete with the raising of the flag by the Honor Guard, the National Anthem was played by a rising Martinsville High School senior and city council made remarks. Read More

WHAT'S NEWS TODAY: MAY 29, 2017

May 28, 2017- The service begins at noon today, as a way of paying tribute to fallen soldiers. S.T. Fulcher, director of Roselawn Funeral Home, Roselawn Burial Park and the VSO Committee of Martinsville, will hold a special memorial at the Roselawn Chapel, one of several being held throughout the area today. Read More

CEREMONIAL GROUNDBREAKING HELD FOR COUNTY INTERNET TOWERS

May 25, 2017- On May 19, at the base of White Oak Mountain off U.S. Highway 29, county officials and dignitaries held a ceremonial groundbreaking event to kick off bringing Internet to rural Pittsylvania County. Read More

ANNUAL MEMORIAL DAY CELEBRATION IN MARTINSVILLE TO BE HELD AT PEOPLE'S CEMETERY

May 25, 2017- The 3rd annual Memorial Day Ceremony in Martinsville will be Monday at the People's Cemetery. Read More

STROLLER: MORE MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONIES, FREE MEAL COMING

May 25, 2017- The city of Martinsville will hold a Memorial Day ceremony at People’s Cemetery at 10:30 a.m. Monday. The event will take place at the end of Second Street in Martinsville. Read More

GROUND BROKEN ON RURAL INTERNET PROJECT IN PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY

May 19, 2017- Work has officially begun on a rural internet project in Pittsylvania County after a groundbreaking ceremony Friday morning at the base of White Oak Mountain. Read More

BARTS TO COMPETE FOR SCHOOL BOARD SEAT

April 12, 2017- Gayle Barts, legislative aide to Del. Les Adams, recently announced her intent to fill the Dan River District seat for the Pittsylvania County School Board opening in November. Read More

TOWN OF HURT MAKING PLANS TO CELEBRATE 50TH ANNIVERSARY

March 22, 2017- The town of Hurt was officially incorporated 50 years ago, and its current residents are getting ready to celebrate with a series of events. The first event is a history focused Community Anniversary Reception to be held from 2 to 4 p.m. April 2 at New Prospect Baptist Church Family Life Center at 509 Prospect Road in Hurt. Read More

CHATHAM DMV SELECT CELEBRATES GRAND RE-OPENING

March 21, 2017- The DMV Select office, operated by Allan and Susie Easley, recently relocated from its former home to a newer, more spacious facility a few blocks away at 131 South Main St. in Chatham. Read More

PROGRESS ON POLITICAL GIFTS, BUT THERE'S STILL A WAYS TO GO

March 19, 2017- Though the U.S. Supreme Court threw out the conviction of former Gov. Bob McDonnell in the Giftgate scandal that consumed the final year of his administration in 2013, the initial guilty verdict in a federal corruption trial still resonates throughout the halls of power in Richmond. Read More

LEGISLATION TO RAISE VIRGINIA'S GRAND LARCENY THRESHOLD FROM $200 TO $500 DIES IN HOUSE PANEL

February 15, 2017- Legislation to raise Virginia’s grand larceny threshold from $200 to $500 died Wednesday in a House of Delegates subcommittee, leaving Virginia’s law among the most strict in the nation when it comes to treating arguably minor thefts as felonies. Read More

HOUSE KILLS CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORMS

February 15, 2017- A number of criminal justice reforms, including two backed by Gov. Terry McAuliffe, died Wednesday at the hands of House Republicans unconvinced the changes were needed. Read More

BUDGET PROMOTES RETENTION

February 8, 2017- At the time of this writing, the 2017 session of the Virginia General Assembly is approaching what is known as “crossover,” when all bills to be considered by the House of Delegates must be acted upon. Read More

DUTY TO ONE ANOTHER

February 1, 2017- Inscribed in marble and embedded in the center of our law firm in Chatham are the words my law partner and I wished to display as an expression of the core values of our practice. Read More

GENERAL ASSEMBLY BRIEFS

January 31, 2017- The House Education Committee, meeting at 8:30 a.m. in House Room D, takes up a bill to limit suspensions and expulsions in public schools. Read More

VIRGINIA DECRIMINALIZATION BILLS DRAW HEAVY OPPOSITION

January 31, 2017- Virginia won’t be pulling a Colorado by decriminalizing marijuana this year. But the state might relax its penalties for possessing marijuana and its rules on who can use marijuana products for medical reasons. Read More

FRACKING CHEMICAL RECIPES COULD BE KEPT SECRET IN VIRGINIA UNDER BILL PASSED BY HOUSE

January 30, 2017- Chemical recipes used in fracking, the controversial method of extracting natural gas and oil by high-pressure ground injections, could be kept secret under legislation that passed the Virginia House of Delegates on Monday. Read More

LAWMAKERS INTERVENE IN NEW COLLEGE INSTITUTE'S FUTURE

January 30, 2017- The Virginia Capitol stands more than 170 miles from the New College Institute in Martinsville, but the two institutions are becoming closer by the day. Read More

MEDICAL MARIJUANA BILLS GO DOWN IN HOUSE

January 30, 2017- House Republicans shot down medical marijuana reforms Monday expanding access to oils to people with more diseases, but key members indicated they can be swayed on the measures. Read More

VIRGINIA LIKELY TO EASE RULES ON MARIJUANA

January 30, 2017- Virginia won't be pulling a Colorado by decriminalizing marijuana this year. But the state might relax its penalties for possessing marijuana and its rules on who can use marijuana products for medical reasons. Read More

BILLS WOULD END LICENSE SUSPENSION FOR MARIJUANA POSSESSION

January 27, 2017- Virginians convicted of marijuana possession would no longer automatically lose their driver’s license for six months under legislation moving through the General Assembly. Read More

SOUTHERN VIRGINIA MULTIMODAL PARK ‘COULD BE THE DOOR TO THE OUTSIDE WORLD’

January 5, 2017- Preliminary engineering and a study soon will begin in Hurt to determine the feasibility of turning the former Klopman Mills site into Virginia’s second inland port — The Southern Virginia Multimodal Park. Read More

SCHOOLS, LAWMAKERS PUSH FOR CALENDAR FREEDOM

December 25, 2016- Local lawmakers and school officials say they will make another push for the freedom to set school start dates without a weather waiver, as the Virginia General Assembly prepares to head into session next month. Read More

LEGISLATORS' BID TO CONTROL NEW COLLEGE BOARD MAY SIDELINE SEN. BILL STANLEY'S STATEWIDE BID

December 8, 2016- State legislators are seeking leadership roles on the board of directors at the New College Institute out of what they describe as frustration over the direction of the 10-year-old higher education center in Martinsville. Read More

LEGISLATORS SEEK LEADERSHIP ROLES ON MARTINSVILLE INSTITUTE'S BOARD

December 8, 2016- State legislators are seeking leadership roles on the Board of Directors at the New College Institute out of what they describe as frustration over the direction of the 10-year-old higher education center in Martinsville. Read More

LAWMAKERS GEARING UP FOR 2017 SESSION

December 8, 2016- Dan River Region lawmakers want to make planned raises for state employees and workforce development initiatives priorities for the 2017 General Assembly session. Read More

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARADE SET FOR SATURDAY

November 13, 2016- The 66th Annual Martinsville-Henry County Christmas parade is set for 5 p.m. Saturday. The parade theme is “A Red, White, & Blue Christmas!”, and retired Army Gen. Dennis L. Via will serve as Grand Marshall. Read More

WHILE PROPERTY TAX FORGIVENESS AMENDMENT PASSES, LOCALITIES HAVE OPTION TO IMPLEMENT

November 13, 2016- On Tuesday, Virginia voters approved a constitutional amendment to allow localities to forgive property taxes for families of emergency care workers killed in the line of duty. It passed with 80 percent of the vote statewide. It was supported by 79 percent of Pittsylvania County residents and 78.4 percent of Danville residents. Read More

VOTERS REJECT AMENDMENT HAILED BY LAWMAKERS, CRITICIZED BY UNION OFFICIALS

November 10, 2016- In a close vote Tuesday, voters chose to not incorporate a proposed right-to-work amendment into the state Constitution. The proposed amendment has been a law in Virginia for almost 70 years, but legislators wanted to safeguard it by changing the Constitution. As a law, it can be revoked in one session by the General Assembly, but as a part of the Constitution, it would have required another amendment to be passed in a statewide vote. Read More

VOTE YES ON CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS

November 6, 2016- This year Virginia voters will have the opportunity to vote on two very important constitutional amendments. We hope that you will vote yes on both. They will be listed last on your ballot. Read More

COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD ASKS LAWMAKERS FOR INCREASED FUNDING

October 24, 2016- The Pittsylvania County School Board and leaders of the school system have asked local lawmakers to continue to make K-12 funding increases a priority in the General Assembly. Read More

FOR EX-OFFENDERS, A ROLLER COASTER RIDE TO VOTE

September 12, 2016- Gov. Terry McAuliffe and local lawmakers continue to argue over the way to let more than 200,000 Virginians earn back the right to vote. “I don’t care what their politics are,” McAuliffe said in an interview Thursday while visiting the Dan River Region for an economic announcement. “I want them to vote.” Read More

CHATHAM’S O’HARE APPOINTED TO ARTS COMMISSION

August 23, 2016- Chatham resident and professional pianist Kathleen O’Hare has been appointed to the Virginia Commission for the Arts as a board member, Del. Les Adams, R-Chatham, announced Tuesday. Read More

RESIDENTS PUSH FOR CHANGE AT INTERSECTION OF U.S. 29, SHULA DRIVE

August 17, 2016- The state must do something about the traffic danger at U.S. 29 and Shula Drive — such as installing a traffic signal or warning lights, residents said during a public meeting held Wednesday night in northern Pittsylvania County. Read More

LOCAL VFW POSTS MERGE

August 6, 2016- The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) posts in Martinsville and Henry County have consolidated as part of an effort to better serve military service veterans and their families, as well as the community. Bassett-based Post 2820, which served the entire county, and Martinsville-based Post 4637, have become the VFW Ford-Stewart Post 4637, headquartered at the post building on Old Chatham Road just outside the city. Read More

DELEGATE ADAMS HONORS DAVIS

July 28, 2016- Former Star-Tribune Editor Tim Davis was honored for his 25 years of service to county citizens with a General Assembly resolution presented to him Thursday by Delegate Les Adams. Adams said, “Tim Davis adroitly covered local and political issues engaging passionate discourses. Read More

ADAMS APPOINTED TO NEW COLLEGE INSTITUTE BOARD

June 21, 2016- Del. Les Adams, R-Chatham, was recently appointed to the New College Institute board of directors by House Speaker William Howell, R-Stafford, Howell’s office announced Tuesday. Read More

MEMORIAL DAY: HONORING THE FALLEN

June 1, 2016- There was a special feeling about this year’s Memorial Day. A light rain moved the Sunday afternoon service from the Lee Street National Cemetery to Moseley Memorial United Methodist Church, but it didn’t dampen the spirits of grateful Americans paying tribute to those who have served in our military. Read More

THE CITY OF MARTINSVILLE HOLDS A MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY TODAY AT THE ENTRANCE TO PEOPLES’ CEMETERY

May 30, 2016- The City of Radford holds its annual Memorial Day Service. The program will include music by the Radford High School Choir and Band, the Field of Crosses, a 21 gun salute and a bagpiper. It starts at 11 a.m. at Bissett Park. Read More

AMERICAN NATIONAL UNIVERSITY IN MARTINSVILLE WELCOMES ADAMS TO COMMENCEMENT

May 24, 2016- The Martinsville Campus of American National University will hold its graduation ceremony at 7 p.m. June 3 at Bassett High School with special guest Delegate Les Adams as the commencement speaker. Read More

HOLCOMB IS RECOGNIZED BY ASSEMBLY

April 18, 2016- Ricky "Big Bird" Holcomb, whose annual motorcycle Toy Run raises money and collects toys for needy area children and their families at Christmastime, is being recognized by the General Assembly for his efforts. Read More

INLAND PORT HIGHLIGHT OF LEGISLATIVE LUNCH

April 6, 2016- Discussion of the possible location of an inland port in Southside Virginia was the highlight of the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce’s legislative luncheon Wednesday, March 30, at Stratford Courtyard Conference Center in Danville. Read More

LOCAL LAWMAKERS TOUT PROGRESS DURING PAST SESSION

March 30, 2016- Three local legislators shared the accomplishments and progress from the recent General Assembly session — as well as how new laws will impact the Dan River Region — during a legislative lunch Wednesday in Danville. Read More

BOARD DIDN’T REALLY BALANCE BUDGET

March 25, 2016- Any comment about the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors should begin with a word of appreciation for the service these seven men give us in setting policies for the running of our county. Read More

BUDGET JUST APPEARS BALANCED

March 23, 2016- Any comment about the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors (BOS) should begin with a word of appreciation for the service these seven men give us in setting policies for the running of our county. Read More

HOW EASY IT IS TO SPEND OUR CITIZENS’ MONEY

March 23, 2016- I have been reading and researching the 2016 and 2017 Pittsylvania County Budget and the School Budget for around three months and this same budget has been gone over by the major newspapers and the citizens also. Read More

AREA REPS: TRUMP TAPS INTO SLUGGISH ECONOMY, VOTER ANGER

March 19, 2016- Del. Danny Marshall, R-Danville, said he saw the wide appeal of Donald Trump firsthand earlier this year at a hardware store. While shopping, he began talking with an employee and contractor he had worked with back in the 1980s. Read More

BILL MANEUVER ON TRASH FEE MET WITH CONTROVERSY FROM PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY BOARD

March 14, 2016- A proposed law that would have removed Pittsylvania County’s name from a list of localities authorized to impose a solid waste fee was tabled last month after supervisors spoke to legislators about it. Read More

MARTINSVILLE CITY SCHOOL BOARD HONORS STATE CHAMPIONS

March 14, 2016- In the case of the Martinsville High School (MHS) varsity boys basketball team, that’s the way to get them to win, Adkins, the team’s head coach, told the Martinsville School Board on Monday. Read More

IMPORTANT ACTION ON AGENDA

March 9, 2016- The General Assembly has now entered its final scheduled week for the 2016 regular session, with adjournment sine die set to occur on our 60th day at the Capitol: Saturday, March 12. In these last hours, with most of the committee work complete, more time is being spent on the house floor as the final senate bills reported out of house committees are addressed. Read More

MCGARRY, BRINKS FINALISTS FOR POST VACATED BY GENDRON

March 6, 2016- Marcus Brinks, deputy commonwealth’s attorney for Patrick County, and James McGarry, who is in a private law practice in Martinsville, will be interviewed Monday by a state courts panel as a possible replacement for Edwin A. Gendron Jr. as General District Court judge for the 21st Judicial District. Read More

2 NOTEWORTHY EVENTS PASS

March 2, 2016- As the General Assembly enters the final days of this year’s session, last week marked the passing of two noteworthy events. In the first instance, delegates finished voting on the proposed house amendments to the 2016-2018 biennial budget and have presented a bill that is now in conference with that proposed by the senate. Read More

TUESDAY PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARIES KICK OFF BUSY YEAR FOR ELECTIONS

February 28, 2016- On Tuesday, both the Democratic and Republican presidential primaries will be held in Virginia and 11 other states. Polls in Virginia open at 6 a.m. and close at 7 p.m. Read More

COMPROMISE ON GUN BILL PRAISED BY LAWMAKERS

February 25, 2016- Dan River Region lawmakers said they were very pleased with the passage of bills ensuring reciprocity for concealed-carry handgun permit holders while taking steps to keep guns out of the hands of those under protective orders. Read More

ADAMS GIVES ACCOUNT OF HOUSE BILLS

February 24, 2016- The 2016 session of Virginia’s General Assembly reached the halfway point last week with what is known here as “crossover.” The term marks the time established by the rules of the House and Senate after which only bills from the other body may be considered for further action. Read More

REPLACEMENT FOR RETIRED JUDGE GENDRON IS SOUGHT

February 23, 2016- The current Henry County and Martinsville commonwealth’s attorneys, the current deputy Patrick County commonwealth’s attorney, a former Martinsville commonwealth’s attorney and a private attorney are vying to succeed Edwin A. Gendron Jr. as General District Court judge for the 21^st Judicial District. Read More

SUPPORTING COPN REFORM

February 17, 2016- Of the more intense debates in the House of Delegates this session, have been those surrounding the issue of health care reform with respect to Virginia’s Certificate of Public Need laws, widely known as “COPN.” Read More

AT CROSSOVER, LOCAL BILLS MOVE FORWARD WITH LARGE SUPPORT

February 16, 2016- Several pieces of legislation proposed during this year’s General Assembly session by Dan River Region legislators have advanced with a majority of support from lawmakers just a few days before crossover. Read More

RELIGIOUS LIBERTY ADVANCES

February 10, 2016- Earlier this session I wrote to you about my decision to advance measures in the Virginia General Assembly aimed at strengthening religious liberty and the right of conscience. The first of those initiatives, I am pleased to report, was passed by the House of Delegates last week with overwhelming bipartisan support. Read More

ADAMS PUSHES FOR GUN RIGHTS, RELIGIOUS FREEDOM BILLS IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY

February 5, 2016- Del. Les Adams, R-Chatham, said he is making a push for gun rights and religious freedom this year as the Virginia General Assembly nears the halfway point of the 2016 session. Read More

BILL WOULD MAKE ELECTROCUTION THE DEFAULT FOR DEATH PENALTY

February 5, 2016- Death penalty opponents lost a battle this week when a House committee endorsed a bill to make electrocution the default punishment if lethal injection is unavailable. Read More

GUN RIGHTS MERIT SERIOUS CONSIDERATION

February 3, 2016- At the time of this writing, details of the recent bipartisan agreement to restore the rights of individuals holding permits to carry concealed handguns remains a matter of serious consideration here in Richmond. Read More

BILL TO HELP NCI BECOME UNIVERSITY BRANCH INTRODUCED

February 2, 2016- A bill introduced in the General Assembly by Del. Danny Marshall is designed to help the New College Institute (NCI) become a branch campus of a public university. Read More

ADAMS DETAILS COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS

January 27, 2016-The work of the 2016 session of the Virginia General Assembly is now well underway. With the initial resolutions of organization in place, the Speaker of the House has announced each member’s assignments to the standing committees. Read More

LETTER: BARRY JOYCE

January 21, 2016- Patriots, Virginians, Americans, on January 18, 2016, myself along with other members of the Virginia Chapter of "Oath Keepers" traveled to Richmond to participate in what is referred to as "Lobby Day". It is time set aside each year for citizens to lobby their senators and delegates with concerns they may have on items of interest. Read More

DEL. ADAMS LOOKS FORWARD TO OPPORTUNITIES

January 20, 2016- The 2016 session of the Virginia General Assembly began last Wednesday as the House of Delegates and Senate convened in Richmond to address policy matters and budgetary issues for the Commonwealth’s next biennium. Read More

HOUSE COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS ANNOUNCED

January 20, 2016- During the 2016 opening session of the Virginia House of Delegates, 16th District Del. Les Adams (R-Chatham) and 9th District Del. Charles Poindexter (R-Glade Hill) received several committee appointments by Speaker William Howell. Read More

LOCAL DELEGATES: BUDGET IS TOP PRIORITY

January 12, 2016- Gov. Terry McAuliffe’s proposed biennium budget will be the biggest issue facing the General Assembly when it convenes today, three area lawmakers agree. “All others fail in comparison,” said Del. Charles Poindexter, R-Glade Hill. Read More

VIRGINIA DELEGATE LES ADAMS FIGHTS ATTORNEY GENERAL RECIPROCITY DECISION

January 3, 2016- Chatham Delegate Les Adams will introduce a bill next month restoring universal reciprocity between Virginia and thirty other states in the US that allow gun-owners to get conceal carry permits. Read More

STATE RESOLUTION WOULD HONOR ‘BIG BIRD’ HOLCOMB

January 1, 2016- A joint Senate resolution has been prefiled to commend Ricky “Big Bird” Holcomb for more than 20 years of raising money and collecting toys for less fortunate children and families in Henry County and Martinsville through Big Bird’s Toy Run, according the General Assembly Legislative Information System website. Read More

DEL. LES ADAMS TO CHALLENGE ATTORNEY GENERAL'S ACTION ON CONCEALED CARRY PERMITS

December 29, 2015- A delegate on the Southside said "no way" to Attorney General Mark Herring's announcement last week that Virginia would no longer honor concealed carry handgun permits from 25 states.

SOUTHSIDE LEGISLATOR TO CHALLENGE AG’S ACTION ON CONCEALED CARRY

December 28, 2015- Chatham Delegate Les Adams will introduce a bill next month restoring universal reciprocity between Virginia and thirty other states in the US that allow gun-owners to get conceal carry permits.

AS HURT BOWS OUT, ACCOLADES POUR IN

December 23, 2015- U.S. Rep. Robert Hurt formally announced Wednesday he is not running for re-election, saying he is looking forward to private life and that he never intended to make public office a career. Read More

MOST SURPRISED HURT TO RETIRE

December 23, 2015- Several local and state political officials said Wednesday that they were surprised at 5th District U.S. Rep. Robert Hurt’s announcement that he plans to retire from Congress at the end of his current term. Read More

SCHOOL SUPERVISORS PRESENT AGENDAS

December 21, 2015- At a joint meeting Monday night, the Henry County Board of Supervisors presented its legislative agenda and the Henry County School Board presented its proposed legislative agenda to area state legislators. Read More

2015 ELECTION YIELDS NEW FACES

November 4, 2015- Pittsylvania County residents voted in some new faces Tuesday, with more than 30% of registered voters casting ballots. Up from 28% in the 2011 election, according to Pittsylvania County Registrar Kelly A. Bailess. Read More

STANLEY DEFEATS ADKINS TO RETAIN 20TH SENATE DISTRICT

November 3, 2015- With all 120 precincts in the state’s 20th Senatorial District reporting, unofficial results from Tuesday’s election show Stanley defeated his challenger, Democratic former Martinsville mayor Kim Adkins, capturing 22,598 votes to Adkins’ 16,446 votes. Stanley received 57.78 percent of the votes, while Adkins received 42.05 percent. Read More

VOTERS IN DAN RIVER REGION TO DECIDE COUNTY OFFICES, STATE SENATE RACE

November 2, 2015- Voters will decide almost every elected county government office in addition to a state Senate race between Bill Stanley and former Martinsville Mayor Kim Adkins during Tuesday's election. Read More

CANDIDATES ARE LISTED

November 2, 2015- ELECTION DAY 2015. Read More

ID REQUIRED IN ORDER TO VOTE

November 2, 2015- Don’t forget your driver’s license when you go to vote today. You don’t drive? Take some other type of identification card with your picture on it. Without such an ID, casting a ballot will require a lot more work that just showing up at the polling place. Read More

ENDORSEMENT: MARSHALL, ADAMS, EDMUNDS FOR DELEGATE

October 27, 2015- It’s one week before the general election and it’s also the start of a week filled of Southside Central political endorsements. We’re going to get started with the easiest ones. Let’s talk about the region’s Virginia House of Delegate races. They’re all unopposed. Read More

COMPETITION ALLEY STOP HIGHLIGHTS HURT VISIT

August 24, 2015- Congressman Robert Hurt came home Monday afternoon to visit Competition Alley on Main Street and to talk to small business owners and local officials here. Read More

COUNTY ELECTION TO PRODUCE NEW FACES

July 29,2015- Pittsylvania County residents will see some new faces in county offices following the Nov. 3 election. June was the filing deadline, but candidates have been campaigning for months and politicking is expected to intensify in the fall. Read More

GROUP GATHERS TO TALK RACE RELATIONS

July 26, 2015- More than 125 people gathered at Banister Bend Sunday to talk about improving race relations in Pittsylvania County. Read More

DEL. LES ADAMS ANNOUNCES HIS RE-ELECTION BID!

July 6, 2015- Delegate Les Adams, Republican from Chatham, today announced the start of his campaign for re-election this fall to the House of Delegates in Virginia’s General Assembly. Adams represents the 16^th House District which includes the City of Martinsville and parts of Henry and Pittsylvania Counties. Read More

FOURTH OF JULY SERVICE HIGHLIGHTED WITH SPEECH BY E.W. JACKSON

July 6, 2015- Music, dance and drama were all part of the special Fourth of July celebration at White Oak Worship Center on Sunday in Blairs, which drew hundreds of people to pack the pews. Read More

ADAMS TO CAMPAIGN FOR SECOND TERM AS DELEGATE

July 1, 2015- “It has been a tremendous privilege to represent the people of the 16th House District in Richmond during my first term in office,” Adams said in a news release. “I am looking forward to continuing that service in the coming years and am eager to provide an increasingly strong voice for us as we work together to meet the needs of Southside Virginia.” Read More

DELEGATE ANNOUNCES BID FOR RE-ELECTION

June 30, 2015- Del. Les Adams, R-Chatham, will seek a second term as a member of the Virginia House of Delegates, Adams announced on Tuesday. Read More

DEADLINE NEARS FOR COUNTY ELECTION FILING

June 5, 2015- Independent candidates must have at least signatures from 125 registered voters. Supervisors and school board hopefuls need signatures from their election district. Read More

STANLEY, MARSHALL TO SEEK STATE AID FOR MEDICAL SCHOOL

May 28, 2015- Stanley made the remark while speaking at the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce’s post-legislative luncheon at the Virginia Museum of Natural History. Other featured speakers were 9th District U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith, Marshall and fellow Delegates Les Adams and Charles Poindexter. All the legislators are Republicans. Read More

STANLEY, MARSHALL TO SEEK STATE AID FOR MED SCHOOL

May 28, 2015- State Sen. Bill Stanley expects that he and Del. Danny Marshall will seek state funding for the planned College of Henricopolis School of Medicine, Stanley said Wednesday. Read More

COUNTY ELECTION DEADLINE NEARS

May 27, 2015- The filing deadline for candidates in Pittsylvania County’s November election is less than two weeks away. Candidates must file all of their paperwork with the voter registrar’s office in Chatham by Tuesday, June 9, at 7 p.m. Read More

SCEARCE RUNS FOR WESTOVER SUPERVISOR’S SEAT

May 27, 2015- Ronald S. Scearce, a fiscal conservative who hopes to bring accountability to local government, said this week he will run for the Westover District seat on the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors. Read More

SCEARCE SEEKS SEAT ON BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

May 22, 2015- Ronald Scearce is collecting signatures to run for the Westover District seat on the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors. Read More

SOUTHSIDE SOCCER CLUB

April 29, 2015- For Village Pizza, Autumn Polk and DeAmber Harris shared time in the goal box and did a great job with multiple saves. Read More

MOON VS. HAGERMAN IN CALLANDS-GRETNA

April 22, 2015- Vernon Moon, a Gretna businessman, farmer and long-time champion of public schools, announced his candidacy today for the Callands-Gretna District seat on the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors. Read More

LAWMAKERS GRAPPLE OVER PERSONAL DATA

April 22, 2015- As most of you know quite well, April 15 of last week was the day in our country when working Americans were compelled to submit to the federal government substantial portions of their income earned in the previous year. Read More

SUPERVISOR JERRY HAGERMAN'S REPORT

March 18, 2015- Banister District Supervisor Jessie Barksdale and I traveled to Richmond on Feb. 18 to meet and talk with Maurice Royster, manager government relations for EQT (Mountain Valley Pipeline). Read More

BUDGET INCLUDES PAY RAISE FOR TEACHERS

March 5, 2015- Last week marked the conclusion of this year’s regular session of the General Assembly, with the House of Delegates having adjourned sine die in the late hours of Friday evening. Read More

ADAMS LEVELS FIELD FOR MINORITY BUSINESSES

February 25, 2015- As the 2015 General Assembly session draws to a close, the hurried pace to complete consideration of the legislation passed by each body continues. Read More

HOUSE OKS TRANSPORTING LOADED SHOTGUNS

February 20, 2015- Virginians who have a concealed handgun permit could legally transport loaded shotguns in vehicles under a bill that passed the House of Delegates on a split vote this week. Read More

BUDGET INCLUDES RAISE FOR STATE WORKERS

February 18, 2015- Consideration of bills introduced in the House of Delegates for the 2015 regular session concluded last week with crossover, whereby the successful pieces of legislation were delivered to the Senate. Read More

WARREN RUNS FOR SEAT ON BOARD

February 18, 2015- Saying he hopes to make a difference, Robert W. “Bob” Warren of Mount Hermon announced today that he will run for the Chatham-Blairs District seat on the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors in November. Read More

CHAMBER TO HOLD LEGISLATIVE LUNCH

February 17, 2015- The Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce will hold a legislative lunch at noon Thursday, March 5, at Stratford Courtyard Conference Center (149 Piney Forest Road, Danville). Read More

DELEGATE LES ADAMS' 16TH DISTRICT REPORT

February 11, 2015- At the time of this writing, the House of Delegates has nearly completed consideration for each of the bills proposed by its members. Read More

BOWMAN NOT TO SEEK RE-ELECTION

February 11, 2015- Chatham-Blairs District Supervisor Brenda Bowman said today she will not seek a second term on the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors in November. Read More

BARKSDALE TO RUN FOR 2ND TERM ON BOARD

February 11, 2015- Banister District Supervisor Jessie Barksdale announced today that he will seek re-election to the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors in November. Read More

AS CONVENTION OF STATES BILLS STALL OUT, LOCAL LAWMAKERS SPLIT ON ISSUE

February 8, 2015- As several Virginia bills calling for a convention of states falter in the General Assembly, local lawmakers are divided on the appeal of a convention with the power to amend the U.S. Constitution. Read More

BILL ADDRESSES DRUG USE DURING PREGNANCY

February 4, 2015- This year’s “short session” of Virginia’s General Assembly is moving at an increasingly rapid pace in the House of Delegates as legislation is being reported out of committee and onto the House floor. Read More

ADAMS OUTLINES REPUBLICAN PRIORITIES

January 28, 2015- Last week marked the first full week of this General Assembly session in Richmond. Remarkably, over one thousand bills have now been filed and are being considered in their respective committees and sub-committees, with a few having already passed in the House. Read More

REPEALED TAXES UNLIKELY TO GAIN TRACTION

January 21, 2015- As I begin my second year of service to the 16th House District in the General Assembly, I again look forward to this opportunity to represent the people of Southside Virginia over the next several weeks in Richmond. Read More

BREAKING NEWS: 29 JOBS TO BE CREATED IN HENRY COUNTY

January 21, 2015- Governor Terry McAuliffe announced today that Hardide Coatings, Inc., a manufacturer of advanced surface coatings, will invest $7.25 million to establish its first Virginia operation in Henry County and create 29 new jobs with an average salary of $50,000, which is well above the average prevailing wage in the region. Read More

LOCAL LAWMAKERS MIXED ON GOVERNOR'S PROPOSALS

January 15, 2015- Members of the region’s delegation to the General Assembly voiced enthusiasm for some of Gov. Terry McAuliffe’s proposals related to economic development and workforce development Wednesday but were lukewarm or outright opposed to some other measures. Read More

STOWE OUT OF SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION

January 14, 2015- Tunstall District School Board member Morris Stowe has decided not to seek re-election in November. Read More

HOW TO CONTACT AREA LEGISLATORS

January 14, 2015- More than 1,200 proposals await legislators today when the General Assembly convenes at noon. A majority of the proposals — 766 — were filed by delegates. In the Senate, 477 proposals were filed, according to online information. During the long session in 2014, there were 2,600 proposals filed, according to Del. Danny Marshall, R-Danville. Read More

GENERAL ASSEMBLY SESSION BRINGS NEW BILLS, OLD BATTLES

January 12, 2015- Along with a string of new legislation and judicial appointments, this week’s Virginia General Assembly session may include tweaks to Gov. Terry McAuliffe’s budget proposal and a lingering debate on whether to accept federal Medicaid expansion funds, said local lawmakers. Read More

GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2015 SESSION STARTS THIS WEEK; HEAVY WORKLOAD EXPECTED

January 11, 2015- When the 2015 session of the General Assembly gets underway this week, there will be no shortage of work for legislators. Read More

PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY NAACP TO HOLD LEGISLATIVE DIALOGUE TONIGHT

January 8, 2015- The Pittsylvania County Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People will sponsor a Legislative Dialogue Meeting with state legislators Thursday, Jan. 8. Read More

NAACP HOSTS DISCUSSION WITH LAWMAKERS

January 8, 2015- Members of the Pittsylvania County branch of the NAACP asked local legislators about voter identification laws, the minimum wage, law-enforcement issues and other matters during a roundtable discussion held at the Cherrystone South Education and Recreational Center on Thursday night. Read More

2015 BIG ELECTION YEAR FOR PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY

January 7, 2015- All seven seats on the board of supervisors and four seats on the school board will be filled. Read More

EX-GOVERNOR SUPPORTED BY LAWMAKERS

January 7, 2015- Area legislators and others said former Gov. Bob McDonnell’s two-year prison sentence is not as bad as it could have been, but it is more than what was needed. Read More

RELIEF, SUPPORT EXPRESSED BY LOCAL LAWMAKERS AS MCDONNELL SENTENCED

January 6, 2015- As former Gov. Bob McDonnell was sentenced to two years in prison by a federal judge Tuesday, local lawmakers said they were relieved at the conclusion of the proceedings and ready to look at more ethics reform during the next General Assembly session. Read More

PITTSYLVANIA COUNTY NAACP SPONSORS DIALOGUE WITH STATE LAWMAKERS

January 5, 2015- The Pittsylvania County Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People will sponsor a Legislative Dialogue Meeting with state legislators Thursday, Jan. 8. Read More

STATE SEATS UP FOR RE-ELECTION THIS YEAR

January 5, 2015- Three local state seats are up for re-election this year as part of the Virginia state legislature elections. Read More

NAACP SPONSORS LEGISLATIVE MEETING

December 27, 2014- The Pittsylvania County Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People will sponsor a legislative roundtable meeting Thursday, Jan. 8, at 6 p.m. at the Cherrystone Baptist Church Center on U.S. 29 just north of Chatham. Read More

NAACP TO HOST PRE-LEGISLATIVE DIALOGUE

December 22, 2014- The Pittsylvania County branch of the NAACP will host a roundtable, pre-legislative dialogue with area state representatives next month. Read More

GOVERNOR CONTINUES TO DISREGARD THE CONSTITUTION

July 02, 2014- Pursuant to Article IV, Section 13 of the Constitution of Virginia, new laws passed by the General Assembly become effective on the first day of July. Read More

BUDGET BREAK ELUDES STATE

May 30, 2014- Virginia will be entering “unknown, uncharted waters” if a state budget is not approved by July 1, according to Del. Charles Poindexter. That is when the new fiscal year starts for the state as well as its counties and cities, which depend on knowing how much state revenue they will get. Read More

LEGISLATORS: NO END IS IN WORKS ON BUDGET STALEMATE

May 26, 2014- Local lawmakers do not yet know when, or how, the General Assembly will resolve its impasse over the state budget and whether to expand Medicaid. Read More

ASSEMBLY FIXES WORRISOME ‘LOOPHOLE’

May 14, 2014- Appellate lawyers are known to fret about deadlines, but one source of worry has been eliminated by the 2014 General Assembly. Read More

ADAMS CALLS MEDICAID ORDEAL ‘DISTRESSING’

March 27, 2014- Del. Les Adams, R-16th District, joined the GOP majority in the Virginia House of Delegates on Tuesday in presenting their own budget proposal — one that did not include Medicaid expansion. Read More

POLITICAL GAMES HOLD BUDGET HOSTAGE

March 19, 2014- Next week, the General Assembly will reconvene in a special session to address the problem created by Gov. McAuliffe and Democrat legislators who have refused to endorse a budget without a provision to expand Medicaid under Obamacare. Read More

DEL. LES ADAMS REPORT FROM RICHMOND

March 12, 2014- This past Saturday afternoon marked the conclusion of this year’s regular session of the General Assembly. In this my first experience of having served as your delegate in Richmond, I want to again express my gratitude for the privilege of representing you through this service. Read More

LOCAL LAWMAKERS: SPLIT BUDGET, MEDICAID ISSUES

March 09, 2014- Local lawmakers say the General Assembly session which ended Saturday was productive, even if there was no approval of a state budget or resolution to the impasse on Medicaid expansion. Gov. Terry McAuliffe immediately called for a special session March 24, saying he’s hopeful that lawmakers will return ready to pass a budget that includes expanding Medicaid eligibility to about 400,000 residents, The Associated Press reported. Read More

ADAMS BACKS EDUCATION REFORM

March 05, 2014- With both houses of the General Assembly having passed numerous bills, including their respective proposed budgets, certain legislative accomplishments from the House of Delegates are worth noting. This is especially true with regard to education and K-12 reforms, where our Republican majority demonstrated remarkable leadership. Read More

ADAMS REJECTS MEDICAID EXPANSION

February 28, 2014- In the past several days, we in the House of Delegates have considered numerous bills from the Senate. Importantly, last week also marked the passing of the proposed budget by the House of Delegates. Of course, this session of the General Assembly is the “long session” during which state legislators must pass a biennial budget. Read More

VIRGINIA RIGHT! 2013 HOUSE OF DELEGATES POSITIVE ENDORSEMENTS AND NEGATIVE ENDORSEMENTS

October 1, 2013- Virginia Right! endorsed Les Adams back in the Republican Primary defeating Ken Bowman. And we stand by Les in the General Election as well where he faces Democrat Elizabeth Jones. Read More