McDonnell names redistricting panel

Chris Graham

Gov. Bob McDonnell on Monday signed an executive order creating the Independent Bipartisan Advisory Commission on Redistricting, though its powers are limited to a review and recommendation capacity. “As Virginia redraws its legislative districts later this year, the process should take place in a manner that is fair and open,” McDonnell said in naming the…

Federal judge killed, congresswoman wounded in Arizona mass shooting

Chris Graham

An Arizona congresswoman was among 18 people shot at an event outside a Tucson grocery store Saturday morning. Six people, including a federal judge who was a University of Virginia Law graduate, were killed in the shootings, but the congresswoman, Democrat Gabrielle Giffords, has undergone surgery and is in critical condition from a reported gunshot…

The young shall lead: Freshmen key to UVa. win

Scott German

Freshman K.T. Harrell scored 15 points as homestanding Virginia posted a much-needed win, 64-50, over Louisiana State University Sunday in John Paul Jones Arena. The Cavaliers (9-5) broke a two-game losing streak despite the absence of leading scorer and rebounder Mike Scott, who missed his second consecutive game relating to ankle surgery in mid-December. LSU,…

Chopper-Cessna collision in Augusta kills two

Chris Graham

Virginia State Police are investigating an aircraft collision that claimed two lives Friday afternoon in Augusta County. Trooper K. Hyden is investigating the incident and is still in the process of confirming the identities of the deceased. At 2:27 p.m. Friday, a single-engine Cessna 172H and a medical transport helicopter made contact in the air…

UVa. struggles continue: Cavs lose to Seattle, 59-53

Scott German

Having survived a horrific effort Monday night with a last second tip-in to beat Norfolk State University, the Virginia Cavaliers weren’t as fortunate tonight against Seattle University, losing 59-53 to the Red Hawks in John Paul Jones Arena. Although almost unimaginable, Virginia was less efficient offensively in tonight’s game than in Monday’s near-debacle against NSU….

VCU holds off VMI, 86-80

Contributors

Keydets cut lead from 13 to 1 late Good senior leaders step up when their teams need them the most. That’s exactly what was on display for the Virginia Commonwealth University men’s basketball team on Wednesday night against in-state rival, VMI. Seniors Jamie Skeen and Brandon Rozzell combined for 37 points, 24 in the second…

McDonnell: $50M down payment on higher-ed push

Chris Graham

Gov. Bob McDonnell will call for $50 million in new higher-education spending in his amendments to the 2010-2012 state budget, he said today. McDonnell made the announcement as part of the rollout of Preparing for the Top Jobs of the 21st Century: The Virginia Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2011, a legislative package that he…

Supreme Court declines to intervene in college free-press case

Contributors

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday refused to review a ruling by the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals that allows restrictions on alcohol-related advertising in college publications in Virginia. However, arguments against the restrictions will continue in the lower courts. “We are disappointed that the Supreme Court decided not to hear this important First Amendment…