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    <title>State &amp; Regional Politics for Richmond Times-Dispatch</title>
    <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/</link>
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        <title>State &amp; Regional Politics for Richmond Times-Dispatch</title>
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    <dc:language>en</dc:language>
    <dc:creator>Richmond Times-Dispatch</dc:creator>
    <dc:rights>Copyright 2009</dc:rights>
    <dc:date>2009-11-20T16:40:17-05:00</dc:date>

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         <item>
          <title>Charlottesville officer wrecks on way to robbery, faces charge</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/charlottesville_officer_wrecks_on_way_to_robbery_faces_charge/306979/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A Charlottesville police officer whose unmarked vehicle hit another car as he responded to a bank robbery faces a traffic charge.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:31:38 EST</pubDate>
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         <item>
          <title>Patent analyst gets 18 months for stealing $534,000</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/patent_analyst_gets_18_months_for_stealing_534000/306978/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A former financial analyst for the Patent and Trademark Office has been sentenced to a year and a half in prison for stealing more than $500,000 from a government account.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:26:03 EST</pubDate>
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         <item>
          <title>Va. officials seek parks status for Fort Monroe</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/va._officials_seek_parks_status_for_fort_monroe/306975/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The group that will manage Fort Monroe after the Army leaves wants sections of the post to be designated as a unit of the National Park Service.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:11:23 EST</pubDate>
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         <item>
          <title>Gasoline leaks into stream in Roanoke County</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/gasoline_leaks_into_stream_in_roanoke_county/306974/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The state is investigating a gasoline leak that polluted a small stream in Roanoke County.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:09:37 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/gasoline_leaks_into_stream_in_roanoke_county/306974/#When:19:09:37Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Protesters march in Richmond against health care proposals</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/HEALGAT20_20091120-130401/306973/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
More than 100 people gathered outside the downtown Richmond offices of Sens. Jim Webb and Mark R. Warner today to protest the proposed health care plans pending before Congress. Neither Virginia Senator, both Democrats, has committed to vote in favor of the plan that was unveiled this week in the Senate. Richmond police officers stood by to make sure the protests were peaceful. Protesters held signs and shouted slogans.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:04:05 EST</pubDate>
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         <item>
          <title>Warner: More cost containment needed in Senate health&#45;care bill</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/WARNGAT20_20091120-115601/306971/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Sen. Mark Warner said he wants to see more cost containment in the Senate&#8217;s health care bill before he can support it. The Senate version is better than the bill narrowly passed out of the House of Representatives on that grounds, he said. &#8220;I think it&#8217;s gotten better but it&#8217;s still got a ways to go before I get to yes,&#8220; he told a group of small business owners gathered this morning at Can Can in Carytown.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:56:01 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/WARNGAT20_20091120-115601/306971/#When:16:56:01Z</guid>
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          <title>Virginia Highlands professor wins professor&#45;of&#45;the&#45;year honor</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/virginia_highlands_professor_wins_professor-of-the-year_honor/306968/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
An assistant biology professor at Virginia Highlands Community College has been named Virginia Professor of the Year by the 
Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:41:53 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/virginia_highlands_professor_wins_professor-of-the-year_honor/306968/#When:15:41:53Z</guid>
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          <title>Va. faces $3.5 billion hole in next two&#45;year budget</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/SFIN20_20091119-223008/306915/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Local governments aren&#8217;t likely to escape the pain when the General Assembly attempts to eliminate an estimated $3.5 billion hole in the next two-year budget. That estimate does not include the losses faced by local school districts to replace federal stimulus money that will dwindle next year and then disappear entirely in the second year of the budget.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/SFIN20_20091119-223008/306915/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Guard soldier injured in Fort Pickett blast expected to recover</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/PICK20_20091119-222813/306908/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A Virginia National Guard soldier wounded in an accidental blast at Fort Pickett is in stable condition at VCU Medical Center and is expected to make a full recovery, a spokesman said yesterday. Thirteen soldiers taken to Southside Regional Medical Center in Petersburg on Wednesday night were treated and released and have returned to duty, said Maj. Cotton Puryear.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
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         <item>
          <title>Virginia University of Lynchburg kicks off fundraising campaign</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/VULL20_20091119-222610/306893/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Virginia University of Lynchburg launched the biggest fundraising effort in its history this week to support ongoing restoration of its campus. VUL, a historically black school and Lynchburg&#8217;s oldest college, hopes to raise $5 million over the next year to further the completion of its master plan. The aggressive timetable was selected to keep pace with the school&#8217;s ambitious vision for the future.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/VULL20_20091119-222610/306893/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Family of missing Tech student clings to hope</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/TECH20_20091119-222206/306863/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Morgan Dana Harrington&#8217;s parents this week visited the Copeley Road bridge where she was last seen to leave mementos and posters at a small, makeshift memorial. &#8220;We are not building a mausoleum. This is her place of hope,&#8220; said her mother, Gil Harrington. Morgan Harrington, 20, disappeared the night of Oct. 17 after leaving a Metallica concert at the University of Virginia&#8217;s John Paul Jones Arena. Police have said they&#8217;ve received several reports of a woman matching her description hitchhiking at about 9:30 that night on the bridge, which crosses railroad tracks.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/TECH20_20091119-222206/306863/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Crews search for missing Canadian boater</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/crews_search_for_missing_canadian_boater/306756/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The U.S. Coast Guard says aircraft crews are searching for a Canadian boater who is overdue for arrival in Bermuda.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:44:10 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/crews_search_for_missing_canadian_boater/306756/#When:19:44:10Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Va. health officials say 1.2 million H1N1 doses allocated</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/va._health_officials_say_1.2_million_h1n1_doses_allocated/306755/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
State health officials say they&#8217;ve allocated a total of 1.2 million doses of the H1N1 vaccine to Virginia sites in their overall campaign to vaccinate people against the so-called swine flu.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:41:44 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/va._health_officials_say_1.2_million_h1n1_doses_allocated/306755/#When:19:41:44Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>State facing $3.5 billion shortfall in next budget</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/state_facing_3.5_billion_shortfall_in_next_budget/306753/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Virginia lawmakers learned today that they have a $3.5 billion hole to fill in the next two-year budget as well an estimated $209 million shortfall in the current spending plan.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:25:19 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/state_facing_3.5_billion_shortfall_in_next_budget/306753/#When:19:25:19Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Captain, Navy crew in April piracy rescue reunite</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/captain_navy_crew_in_april_piracy_rescue_reunite/306712/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The American sea captain who was held by pirates off of Africa and the crew of a Navy ship involved his rescue are reuniting in Virginia.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 06:55:39 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/captain_navy_crew_in_april_piracy_rescue_reunite/306712/#When:11:55:39Z</guid>
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          <title>Gov. Kaine cites concerns on Virginia&#8217;s budget, roads</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/KAIN19_20091118-222007/306650/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
In a meeting yesterday with the Richmond Times-Dispatch&#8217;s editorial board, Kaine voiced concerns that lawmakers confronted with the tough budget he&#8217;s crafting for the next two fiscal years will shrink from some of the sacrifices it will require to keep the state fiscally sound in a tough economy.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:01:41 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/KAIN19_20091118-222007/306650/#When:05:01:41Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Local governments&#8217; rates for retired locality workers&#8217; health care could rise</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/HOUS19_20091118-222007/306649/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The cost of retiree health care is turning into a hot-button issue for state legislators and local officials, who will learn today how much more local governments will have to pay for employee retirement plans. The increase that will be recommended to the Virginia Retirement System Board of Trustees by its actuary is small&#8212;about 1 percent overall on average among all localities covered by the state system.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:01:18 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/HOUS19_20091118-222007/306649/#When:05:01:18Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Fort Pickett blast injures 14 soldiers</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/PICK19_20091118-234202/306703/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A female soldier was flown to VCU Medical Center and 13 other soldiers were taken to hospitals after an explosion last night at Fort Pickett, officials said. A small device used to simulate the flashing and banging sounds that soldiers experience under fire exploded about 8 p.m., Maj. Cotton Puryear said. The woman closest to the blast suffered third-degree burns and cuts and was flown to the hospital.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/PICK19_20091118-234202/306703/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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          <title>Analyst proposes putting corrections projects in Va. on hold</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/BUDG19_20091118-223004/306678/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Virginia and its localities should stop building more prisons and jails because a decade-long building program has led to undercrowding, a state budget analyst said yesterday. &#8220;There is no need to approve any additional prison or jail construction for the foreseeable future,&#8220; Paul Van Lenten Jr. told members of the House Appropriations Committee and House Finance Committee.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/BUDG19_20091118-223004/306678/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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          <title>Study highlights tax burden disparity</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/POOR19_20091118-222402/306670/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Lowand middle-income families pay a disproportionate share of taxes in Virginia, a study by a tax policy institute concluded yesterday. The Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy and the Virginia Organizing Project, which represents low-income Virginians, said Virginia families earning less than $19,000 a year pay 8.9 percent of their income in state and local taxes, while the richest taxpayers&#8212;those making more than $1.5 million a year&#8212;pay only 6.3 percent.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/POOR19_20091118-222402/306670/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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          <title>Shellfish harvesting prohibited after nor&#8217;easter</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/CBAY19_20091118-222402/306669/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Virginia Department of Health is closing Chesapeake Bay tributaries, including all of them in Hampton Roads, to shellfish harvesting because of last week&#8217;s nor&#8217;easter. The emergency closure is effective from today through Dec. 2, according to a news release. Last week&#8217;s heavy rainfall caused wastewater to overflow into the Chesapeake Bay tributaries. Because of the potential microbiological and chemical pollution hazards, shellfish taken from areas affected by the emergency closure are unacceptable for consumption.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/CBAY19_20091118-222402/306669/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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          <title>Hunter faces manslaughter charge in Ferrum student&#8217;s death</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/FERR19_20091118-215603/306607/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A hunter faces manslaughter and other charges after authorities say he fired at Ferrum College students he mistook for a deer, leaving one dead and another wounded. Three students were collecting frogs for a biology class at about 4 p.m. Tuesday when two were shot along a trail about a mile west of campus, a college spokeswoman said. The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries said 23-year-old Jessica Goode of Frederick County died after being shot in the chest, and 20-year-old Regis J. Boudinot of McLean was shot in the hand. The third student wasn&#8217;t injured.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/FERR19_20091118-215603/306607/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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          <title>Federal grand jury subpoenas House documents related to Hamilton</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/HAMI19_20091118-212403/306585/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A federal grand jury has subpoenaed from the Virginia House of Delegates documents related to former Del. Phillip A. Hamilton&#8217;s job at Old Dominion University. Bruce Jamerson, the House clerk, confirmed yesterday that he turned over to authorities Hamilton&#8217;s economic interest forms, travel vouchers and documents relating to the Old Dominion University teaching center.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/HAMI19_20091118-212403/306585/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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          <title>Va. budget expert: Don&#8217;t build any more prisons</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/PRISGAT18_20091118-151402/306494/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Virginia has more than enough jail and prison space and can stop its prison building binge, the House Appropriations Committee was told today. Paul.Van Lenten Jr., a budget analyst with the committee, said some prisons under consideration might be delayed to save operating costs for the state. That was good new for the budget writers, who are facing huge budget shortfalls.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:14:02 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/PRISGAT18_20091118-151402/306494/#When:20:14:02Z</guid>
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          <title>Va. officials caution against eating Lake Gaston walleye</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/FISHGAT18_20091118-134201/306491/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Virginia health officials are advising against consuming walleye fish caught in Lake Gaston because of mercury contamination. Recent fish-tissue sample results from the North Carolina Division of Public Health show levels of the toxic metal in walleye exceed the amount considered safe for long-term human consumption. Virginia&#8217;s health department today issued an advisory in response.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:42:01 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/FISHGAT18_20091118-134201/306491/#When:18:42:01Z</guid>
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          <title>Halifax County toddler drowns in pond near home</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/halifax_county_toddler_drowns_in_pond_near_home/306480/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Police say the drowning of a Halifax County toddler in a pond near his home appears to be an accident.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 18 Nov 2009 09:25:35 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/halifax_county_toddler_drowns_in_pond_near_home/306480/#When:14:25:35Z</guid>
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          <title>Crews free barge stranded off Virginia Beach</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/crews_free_barge_stranded_off_virginia_beach/306479/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A 570-foot barge that went aground in the surf off Virginia Beach is free.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 18 Nov 2009 09:16:31 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/crews_free_barge_stranded_off_virginia_beach/306479/#When:14:16:31Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>UPDATE: Hunter charged in fatal shooting of Ferrum student</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/hunter_charged_in_fatal_shooting_of_ferrum_student/306472/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A deer hunter faces manslaughter and other charges in connection with the fatal shooting of a Ferrum College student and the wounding of another.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 18 Nov 2009 08:06:34 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/hunter_charged_in_fatal_shooting_of_ferrum_student/306472/#When:13:06:34Z</guid>
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          <title>Roanoke pet store employee charged with arson</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/PETGAT18_20091118-061802/306458/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
ROANOKE&#8212;An employee has been charged with arson in a weekend fire at a Roanoke pet store that caused about $2 million in damage. Roanoke Fire Department spokeswoman Tiffany Bradbury said 18-year-old Corey Brian Hite of Ivanhoe in Wythe County was arrested yesterday. She says firefighters were called to the PetSmart store Saturday afternoon and found thick smoke coming from the store.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 18 Nov 2009 06:18:03 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/PETGAT18_20091118-061802/306458/#When:11:18:03Z</guid>
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          <title>Michelle Obama visits N.Va. school</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/MICHGAT18_20091118-061802/306457/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
ALEXANDRIA&#8212;Pupils at Hollin Meadows Elementary School will get to show off the school&#8217;s extensive outdoor garden to First Lady Michelle Obama. Mrs. Obama and U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack will visit the school this morning to highlight the Obama administration&#8217;s Healthier U.S. Schools initiative. The initiative was established to honor schools that are creating healthier school environments by promoting good nutrition and physical activity.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 18 Nov 2009 06:18:02 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/MICHGAT18_20091118-061802/306457/#When:11:18:02Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Allen tax plan backed by Crusade</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/ALLN18_20091117-222205/306379/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Possibly as remarkable as the political pairing in support of a tax-code change to renovate old schools is the range of good it would do, former Gov. and U.S. Sen. George Allen told the Richmond Crusade for Voters last night. It would be good for students, job creation, energy efficiency and taxpayers, he said. &#8220;I have yet to see an idea that covers so many bases&#8212;all bases&#8221; Allen said. &#8220;It&#8217;s a home run of an idea.&#8220;           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:01:57 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/ALLN18_20091117-222205/306379/#When:05:01:57Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Virginia budget outlook poor; shortfall could grow</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/BUDG18_20091117-222406/306389/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Loss of $300 million would be in addition to $1.3 billion revenue shortage predicted in August, state legislators were told.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:01:41 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/BUDG18_20091117-222406/306389/#When:05:01:41Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Ferrum student killed, another injured in hunting incident</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/FERR181_20091117-233402/306441/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
One Ferrum College student was shot fatally in the chest and another was injured in a hunting-related incident near the campus in Franklin County yesterday, authorities said. Authorities said a 23-yearold woman was killed when she was shot in the chest. The other student, 20, was walking with his arm around her when he was struck in the arm and hand, said Julia Dixon, spokeswoman for the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/FERR181_20091117-233402/306441/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Couple planning primitive campground on land on James River</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/CAMP181_20091117-233202/306438/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Here on the stony banks of the James River, Troy and Tysha Breeden are trading in their cows for campers and canoeists. The husband and wife, who live in an old Botetourt County farmhouse amid a wildly scenic landscape, sold the last of their herd of 300 cattle this year to make room for a 12-acre &#8220;primitive campground&#8221; they hope to open in April. They received governmental approval to go forward this year.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/CAMP181_20091117-233202/306438/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Body not believed to be missing Tech student</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/BODY18_20091117-222805/306407/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
As the case of missing Virginia Tech student Morgan Dana Harrington entered its second month, authorities yesterday investigated the discovery of a body in Roanoke. But authorities said they do not believe the female body discovered on Norfolk Southern railroad tracks shortly after daybreak in Roanoke is that of Harrington. Roanoke police detectives and a medical examiner were called to the scene, and authorities determined the female&#8217;s death did not appear suspicious. Police yesterday had not released a cause of death or identified the body.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/BODY18_20091117-222805/306407/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Couple planning primitive campground on land on James River</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/CAMP18_20091117-222005/306372/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Here on the stony banks of the James River, Troy and Tysha Breeden are trading in their cows for campers and canoeists. The husband and wife, who live in an old Botetourt County farmhouse amid a wildly scenic landscape, sold the last of their herd of 300 cattle this year to make room for a 12-acre &#8220;primitive campground&#8221; they hope to open in April. They received governmental approval to go forward this year.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/CAMP18_20091117-222005/306372/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Ferrum student killed, another injured in hunting incident</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/FERR18_20091117-220603/306364/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
One Ferrum College student was shot fatally in the chest and another was injured in a hunting-related incident near the campus in Franklin County yesterday, authorities said. College spokeswoman Natalie Faunce said an area resident was deer-hunting near the campus and mistook students for deer. The incident occurred about 4 p.m. as three students were walking along an access road in a wooded area near an industrial property about a mile west of campus, authorities said.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/FERR18_20091117-220603/306364/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Co&#45;chairs named for McDonnell inauguration</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/MCDO18_20091117-215602/306360/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Sheila Johnson, the Democratic businesswoman who endorsed Republican Bob McDonnell in the governor&#8217;s race this year will serve as one his inaugural co-chairs, the campaign announced yesterday. McDonnell&#8217;s inauguration as the 71st governor of Virginia will be held Jan. 16, and will return to Richmond for the first time since 2002. The 2006 inauguration of Gov. Timothy M. Kaine was held in Williamsburg because the state Capitol was under renovation.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/MCDO18_20091117-215602/306360/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Va. may need to cut another $300 million from two&#45;year budget</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/BUDGGAT17_20091117-133602/306290/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The state of Virginia, which already has had to cut $6 billion from the two-year budget ending June 30, 2010, may have to cut $250 million to $300 million, the House Appropriations Committee was told today. Robert P. Vaughn, director of the committee, said revenue growth should resume in the 2010-2012 fiscal period. Del. Lacey Putney, I-Bedford, said the committee would have to make significant tax reductions without a tax increase.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 17 Nov 2009 13:36:02 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/BUDGGAT17_20091117-133602/306290/#When:18:36:02Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>UPDATE: Body found in Roanoke not believed to be missing Va. Tech student</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/BODYGAT17_20091117-113201/306285/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
As the case of missing Virginia Tech student Morgan Harrington entered into its second month, authorities today are investigating the discovery of a body in Roanoke. Harrington, 20, is from Roanoke.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 17 Nov 2009 11:32:38 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/BODYGAT17_20091117-113201/306285/#When:16:32:38Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Va. Tech giving swine flu shots tomorrow</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/TECHGAT17_20091117-094601/306279/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
BLACKSBURG&#8212;Virginia Tech today said it has received a limited supply of H1N1 vaccine and will hold a vaccination clinic tomorrow for students, faculty and staff. The clinic will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in McComas Gymnasium. Students and employees are welcomed on a first-come, first-served basis. No appointments will be taken, and tickets will be distributed to avoid long wait times.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 17 Nov 2009 09:46:01 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/TECHGAT17_20091117-094601/306279/#When:14:46:01Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Newport News shipyard gets Navy sub deal</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/SUBGAT17_20091117-092601/306275/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
NEWPORT NEWS&#8212;The Northrop Grumman shipyard in Newport News is working to modernize the Navy&#8217;s submarine fleet. The Navy has awarded the company a $635 million contract to work on the Los Angeles-class and Seawolf-class submarines. Northrop Grumman says the work is scheduled to conclude in 2014. The company says planning and engineering for upgrade modifications and modernization is part of an attack submarine&#8217;s 33-year life.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 17 Nov 2009 09:26:01 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/SUBGAT17_20091117-092601/306275/#When:14:26:01Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Stolen flowers lead to Fairfax police shooting</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/FLOWGAT17_20091117-072201/306267/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
ALEXANDRIA&#8212;The ex-wife of a man who was fatally shot by Fairfax County police says he suffered from bipolar disorder. Police say 52-year-old David Alan Masters was suspected of stealing flowers from a business on U.S. 1 shortly before he was killed Friday. Police say they tried to pull him over but he wouldn&#8217;t stop. Officials wouldn&#8217;t say whether Masters threatened the officers or whether he threatened the officers. Gail Masters says her ex-husband didn&#8217;t own a gun.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 17 Nov 2009 07:22:01 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/FLOWGAT17_20091117-072201/306267/#When:12:22:01Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Danville TEA Party cancels effigy burning</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/TEAGAT17_20091117-071802/306266/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
DANVILLE&#8212;The Danville TEA Party has canceled its bonfire and effigy burning planned for Saturday after the event received nationwide interest, group chairman Nigel Coleman said. Coleman said yesterday the owner of the property in Blairs has pulled the plug on the event because of the negative attention the rally has garnered. The bonfire originally was to include burning effigies of Rep. Tom Perriello, D-5th District, and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., in response to their support of the health care legislation.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 17 Nov 2009 07:18:02 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/TEAGAT17_20091117-071802/306266/#When:12:18:02Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Towing of grounded Va. Beach barge delayed to tonight</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/BARGEGAT17_20091117-060802/306252/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
VIRGINIA BEACH&#8212;A 570-foot barge that went aground in the surf off of Virginia Beach is still stuck there. Salvage crews had planned to try to tow the barge with three powerful tugs at high tide last night, but they were only able to get lines up on two of the tugs. Weather permitting, they plan to try to move the barge at high tide this evening.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 17 Nov 2009 06:08:02 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/BARGEGAT17_20091117-060802/306252/#When:11:08:02Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Surgeon on Atlantis mission has Virginia ties</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/SHUT17S_20091116-210806/306121/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Dr. Robert L. Satcher Sr. couldn&#8217;t help but be amazed as he watched the space shuttle Atlantis rocket into the Florida sky yesterday atop a plume of flame and column of smoke. But the president of Saint Paul&#8217;s College in Lawrenceville was an anxious parent, too. His son, Dr. Robert L. Satcher Jr., is a mission specialist aboard Atlantis.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:01:57 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/SHUT17S_20091116-210806/306121/#When:05:01:57Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Va. House caucuses choose leaders</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/CAUC17_20091116-222814/306184/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Virginia House of Delegates&#8217; Democratic and Republican caucuses each elected their leadership for the 2010 General Assembly session during the weekend. The Republican caucus, strengthened after picking up at least five seats in the House this month, re-elected Speaker of the House William J. Howell, R-Stafford. They also voted to keep Del. H. Morgan Griffith of Salem as majority leader, Del. Samuel A. Nixon Jr. of Chesterfield County as caucus chair and Del. M. Kirkland Cox of Colonial Heights as majority whip. The party posts were chosen by acclamation, but the full House membership will vote on Howell&#8217;s post when the General Assembly meets in January in Richmond.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:01:32 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/CAUC17_20091116-222814/306184/#When:05:01:32Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Medical research firm to bring at least 400 jobs to N.Va.</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/KAIN17_20091116-222814/306190/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Virginia Gov. Timothy M. Kaine yesterday unveiled an investment of $200 million by a nonprofit medical research institute expected to generate more than 400 jobs in Northern Virginia. According to the governor&#8217;s office, the Ignite Institute will focus on biomedical research and medical technology advances to further the practice of personalized medicine, in which health care and treatment of disease is tailored to individual patients based on their distinct molecular and biological makeup.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:01:31 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/KAIN17_20091116-222814/306190/#When:05:01:31Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>House committee to hear state budget forecast</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/BUDG17_20091116-222006/306148/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
State and local officials are bracing for another round of bad news from Virginia budget analysts today, as the House Appropriations Committee opens a two-day annual retreat at the Capitol. Richmond-area legislators warned Chesterfield County officials last night that they can expect another drop in state revenue forecasts that likely will lead to further cuts in aid to local governments for education and other services.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:01:27 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/BUDG17_20091116-222006/306148/#When:05:01:27Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Embattled Del. Hamilton resigns from Va. House</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/HAMI17_20091116-222006/306151/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Del. Phillip A. Hamilton, R-Newport News, under an ethics cloud and defeated for re-election, has resigned from the House of Delegates seat he has held for 21 years. The early resignation apparently takes Hamilton off the hook from a House ethics investigation. Paul Nardo, an administrative aide to Speaker of the House William J. Howell, R-Stafford, said the speaker interprets the reach of the House Ethics Advisory Panel as being limited to members of the House of Delegates.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:01:22 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/HAMI17_20091116-222006/306151/#When:05:01:22Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>After losing family in Mumbai, woman works to help others</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/INDI17_20091116-222814/306188/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
FABER Nearly a year after terrorist bullets killed her husband and daughter, Kia Scherr hopes her new Web site will help others. Scherr helped create the One Life Alliance site to promote discussion of the &#8220;sacred nature and interconnectedness&#8221; of human life in response to the Nov. 26 terrorist attack in Mumbai, India, that killed her family. She designed the site with Master Charles Cannon, founder of the Synchronicity Foundation. The group, based in Nelson County, espouses meditation and peaceful, holistic living. Scherr is a longtime foundation member, as were her family members.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:01:13 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/INDI17_20091116-222814/306188/#When:05:01:13Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Supreme Court refuses to block Va. execution</title>
          <link>http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/V/VA_VIRGINIA_EXECUTION_VAOL&#45;?SITE=VARIT&amp;SECTION=HOME&amp;TEMPLATE=DEFAULT</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The U.S. Supreme Court today refused to block the execution of Larry Bill Elliott, a Maryland man who was convicted of gunning down a northern Virginia couple to win the love of a former stripper. Elliott, 60, is scheduled to be executed by electrocution tomorrow.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 18:03:11 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/V/VA_VIRGINIA_EXECUTION_VAOL&#45;?SITE=VARIT&amp;SECTION=HOME&amp;TEMPLATE=DEFAULT#When:23:03:11Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Bond sale reaps $197 million for Va. projects</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/BONDSGAT16_20091116-110401/306066/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A bond sale by the Virginia Resources Authority will provide $197 million for infrastructure projects across the state. The authority said today that the 30-year bonds&#8217; 3.85 interest cost is the lowest in the history of its Virginia Pooled Financing Program. Proceeds from the bond sale will be used for water, wastewater, regional and local jail, courthouse and other projects. Several existing projects will be refinanced.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 11:04:01 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/BONDSGAT16_20091116-110401/306066/#When:16:04:01Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Newport News Del. Hamilton resigns House seat</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/HAMIGAT16_20091116-105802/306064/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Del. Phillip Hamilton, R-Newport News, resigned his seat in the House of Delegates at midnight today. Hamilton, under an ethics cloud, was defeated in the Nov. 3 election. In a letter to House Clerk Bruce Jamerson, Hamilton said he considered the House of Delegates &#8220;the most distinguished legislative body in the world.&#8220; For more on this developing story, check back at TimesDispatch.com and see tomorrow&#8217;s Richmond Times-Dispatch.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 10:58:50 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/HAMIGAT16_20091116-105802/306064/#When:15:58:50Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Kaine seeks FEMA assessment of Va. storm damage</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/KAINGAT16_20091116-103001/306063/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Gov. Timothy M. Kaine is asking the Federal Emergency Management Agency to send damage assessment teams to Virginia following last week&#8217;s wind-driven rain storm. As he assured residents in storm-damaged Norfolk and Hampton on Saturday, Kaine said today he has asked that FEMA immediately begin its official assessments. Those assessments will help determine whether Virginia is eligible for federal disaster assistance.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 10:30:01 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/KAINGAT16_20091116-103001/306063/#When:15:30:01Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Va. House Democratic caucus elects leaders</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/VADEMGAT16_20091116-085001/306056/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Virginia House of Delegates&#8217; Democratic caucus has elected new leadership for the 2010 General Assembly session. In a weekend vote, Democrats chose Del. Ward Armstrong as the House minority leader. Other delegates selected were Ken Plum, caucus chairman; Jennifer McClellan, first vice chairwoman; David Englin, second vice chairman; Mark Sickles, secretary; Jeion Ward, treasurer; and Rosalyn Dance, sergeant at arms/parliamentarian.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:50:01 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/VADEMGAT16_20091116-085001/306056/#When:13:50:01Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Barge stuck in Va. Beach surf could be towed today</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/BARGEGAT16_20091116-083401/306055/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
VIRGINIA BEACH&#8212;A runaway barge pushed by a violent storm into the surf off of Virginia Beach is ready to be towed off to sea. The Coast Guard says the 570-foot vessel could be towed from the Sandbridge section of the resort city sometime today. A spokesman for the shipping company that owns the barge says the vessel has empty containers with possible chlorine residue. The guard says there is no evidence the barge has leaked.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:34:01 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/BARGEGAT16_20091116-083401/306055/#When:13:34:01Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Sniper attorney plans tell&#45;all book</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/SNIPGAT16_20091116-061801/306041/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
BALTIMORE&#8212;A Baltimore attorney who became a confidant of executed D.C. sniper mastermind John Allen Muhammad is writing a book about him. J. Wyndal Gordon volunteered as standby counsel during the 2006 trial in Virginia in which Muhammad represented himself. Gordon tells The Baltimore Sun yesterday that they forged a strong bond. He says Muhammad suggested the book.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 06:18:02 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/SNIPGAT16_20091116-061801/306041/#When:11:18:02Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Richard Dreyfuss to speak at U.Va. today</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/DREYGAT16_20091116-054401/306037/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
CHARLOTTESVILLE&#8212;Actor Richard Dreyfuss plans to speak about civics education at the University of Virginia today. Dreyfuss plans to discuss the importance of teaching civics in nation&#8217;s schools at the Miller Center of Public Affairs. The actor has appeared in dozens of films, including &#8220;Jaws,&#8220; &#8220;Close Encounters of the Third Kind&#8221; and &#8220;Mr. Holland&#8217;s Opus.&#8220;           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 05:44:01 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/DREYGAT16_20091116-054401/306037/#When:10:44:01Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>D&#45;Day Memorial plans to stay open this winter</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/DDAYGAT16_20091116-054202/306035/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
BEDFORD&#8212;The National D-Day Memorial is going to be open all winter. The president of the foundation that runs the Bedford memorial, William McIntosh, says it will be open every day except holidays during the winter months. He said recently that because of financial problems the outdoor museum might only be open by appointment during the slow winter season.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 05:42:02 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/DDAYGAT16_20091116-054202/306035/#When:10:42:02Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>McDonnell eyes health&#45;care changes at state level</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/HEAL16_20091115-221403/305939/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Gov.-elect Bob McDonnell worries that a national health-care overhaul that includes a public option would lead to diminished access to quality care and reduced choice for Virginians. For those reasons, among others, the Republican has said that if given the choice to opt the state out of such a plan&#8212;if it makes it through Congress&#8212;he would prefer to take a pass.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:01:48 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/HEAL16_20091115-221403/305939/#When:05:01:48Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Online ads in Va. gubernatorial race &#8216;set the standard&#8217;</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/ADVT16_20091115-221607/305940/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The day before the Nov. 3 election, Bob McDonnell&#8217;s campaign paid Google about $39,000 to saturate computers in Virginia and Washington with banner ads promoting the candidate. People surfing the Internet during a 12-hour period in Virginia, and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Washington, saw McDonnell&#8217;s banner ads 14 million times during that stretch.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:01:08 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/ADVT16_20091115-221607/305940/#When:05:01:08Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Culpeper postpones action on noise ordinance</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/CULP16_20091115-221813/305955/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The town&#8217;s noise ordinance is staying as is for now, in light of possible action on municipal sound regulation by the highest court in the land. It&#8217;s the second time in a year that the Culpeper Town Council has looked at its noise ordinance but made no change. The Town Council last week opted to postpone any action on altering the local law at the latest advice of Town Attorney Bob Bendall, a partner in the Manassas law firm of Smith &amp; Davenport. He based his counsel on a recent request from the city of Virginia Beach that the U.S. Supreme Court review a Virginia Supreme Court decision from this year that overturned the city&#8217;s noise ordinance.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/CULP16_20091115-221813/305955/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Danville group&#8217;s plan for effigy burning &#8216;up in the air&#8217;</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/TEAP16_20091115-220805/305937/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The chairman of the Danville TEA Party Patriots said yesterday that he was unsure about whether the group will continue with its planned effigy burning of Rep. Tom Perriello, D-5th, and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., at a bonfire rally Saturday in Blairs. Hours after news of the bonfire hit the Internet on Friday, at least one national news outlet had the story on its Web site, as did dozens of bloggers.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/TEAP16_20091115-220805/305937/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Bedford seeks lower speed limits on secondary roads in Va.</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/BEDF16_20091115-213802/305930/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Bedford County officials plan to ask state legislators to lower speed limits on all secondary roads in the state from 55 mph to 45 unless otherwise posted. After some debate last week, the Board of Supervisors voted 4-2 to include the request in the county&#8217;s upcoming list of legislative priorities for the state to consider in its next General Assembly session.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/BEDF16_20091115-213802/305930/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Ex&#45;Va. police official educates Farmville about occult</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/FARMGAT15_20091115-205402/305922/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
FARMVILLE&#8212;More than 100 people attended a speech today about Juggalos, Wiccans, Satanism and vampires in the wake of September&#8217;s quadruple homicide in Farmville. Don Rimer, who studies ritual crime and the occult, spoke at Farmville United Methodist Church on these cultures and ritual crime. &#8220;This is all about education. This is awareness and recognition about all of these behaviors, and the crimes associated with them,&#8220; said Rimer, a retired veteran of the Virginia Beach Police Department.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 15 Nov 2009 20:54:02 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/FARMGAT15_20091115-205402/305922/#When:01:54:02Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Danville TEA Party reconsidering effigy burning of Perriello, Pelosi</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/TEAPGAT15_20091115-185201/305915/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The chairman of the Danville TEA Party Patriots said yesterday he was unsure about whether the group will continue with its planned effigy burning of Rep. Tom Perriello, D-5th District, and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi at a bonfire rally Saturday in Blairs. Hours after news of the bonfire hit the Internet on Friday, at least one national news outlet had the story on its Web site, among dozens of bloggers. Chairman Nigel Coleman said coverage of and public reaction to the event was &#8220;kinda strange.&#8220;           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 15 Nov 2009 18:52:01 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/TEAPGAT15_20091115-185201/305915/#When:23:52:01Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Fairfax Co. parks, libraries could face cuts</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/FAIRGAT15_20091115-174201/305913/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
FAIRFAX (AP)&#8212;Fairfax County parks and libraries could face additional budget cuts next year. Fairfax County Executive Anthony H. Griffin has asked the Park Authority and public library system to propose 15 percent reductions in county funding for fiscal year 2011. That&#8217;s on top of cuts of 15 percent or more this fiscal year. Griffin is working to draft a budget that closes a projected shortfall of more than $315 million, caused largely by reduced residential and commercial property tax revenue.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 15 Nov 2009 17:42:01 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/FAIRGAT15_20091115-174201/305913/#When:22:42:01Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Thousands still without power after Va. storm</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/WEATGAT15_20091115-132601/305876/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
More than 8,000 Dominion Virginia Power customers in southeastern Virginia remain without power at midday today after last week&#8217;s storm. Just 200 people in the Richmond region are without power. At the height of the storm, more than 170,000 were without power.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 15 Nov 2009 13:26:01 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/WEATGAT15_20091115-132601/305876/#When:18:26:01Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>80 animals rescued after fire at Roanoke pet store</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/PETSGAT15_20091115-132202/305874/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
ROANOKE (AP)&#8212;Workers at a Roanoke pet store joined firefighters in safely evacuating puppies, cats and other pets after a back room fire filled the store with dense smoke. Workers said they didn&#8217;t think twice about rescuing the animals when smoke began filling a PetSmart store yesterday afternoon. Roanoke fire spokeswoman Tiffany Bradbury says no injuries were reported as some 80 puppies, cats, gerbils and other animals were safely plucked from the Valley View Mall.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 15 Nov 2009 13:22:02 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/PETSGAT15_20091115-132202/305874/#When:18:22:02Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Warner, Webb speak out on health&#45;care reform</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/HEAL15_20091114-221806/305775/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
About 23,000 of Virginia&#8217;s uninsured are getting continuous medical care through a program run out of Virginia Commonwealth University&#8217;s Health System. It&#8217;s designed to fill a gap in which uninsured people who lack continuous care often rely on emergency rooms for treatment. The program is an example of the right kind of health-care reform as it relates to service delivery, cost and compensation, says Sen. Mark R. Warner, D-Va., who recently took to the Senate floor to tout the program.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:01:33 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/HEAL15_20091114-221806/305775/#When:05:01:33Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Kaine visits Norfolk, Hampton to assess storm damage</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/WEAT15_20091114-210805/305741/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Gov. Timothy M. Kaine yesterday visited two cities hit especially hard by a drenching storm and flooding and heard appeals from residents for assistance. In Norfolk, Kaine stopped by the Ocean View section of the city. Part of the main thoroughfare, Ocean View Avenue, and a number of side streets, remain under water. Downed trees and power lines blocked other streets.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:01:29 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/WEAT15_20091114-210805/305741/#When:05:01:29Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Kaine assessing storm damage</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/KAINGAT14_20091114-152202/305694/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Gov. Timothy M. Kaine&#8217;s plan to assess storm damage in Hampton Roads is still on, despite cloudy weather that canceled a planned flyover. The governor&#8217;s office said he will still make stops in Hampton and Norfolk on Saturday, traveling by ground transportation instead of by helicopter. Kaine will find some improvements since heavy rains and winds lashed the region.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 14 Nov 2009 15:22:02 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/KAINGAT14_20091114-152202/305694/#When:20:22:02Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Runaway barge grounded</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/BARGGAT14_20091114-142202/305692/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
VIRGINIA BEACH&#8212;A runaway 570-foot barge remains grounded off a section of Virginia Beach. The barge broke free during the height of a wind-driven rain storm that slammed Virginia&#8217;s coast. The Coast Guard reported Saturday that the barge did not drift during the night, but could be nudged by tides and winds. The vessel is about a football-field&#8217;s length away from the fishing pier at Little Island.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 14 Nov 2009 14:22:02 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/BARGGAT14_20091114-142202/305692/#When:19:22:02Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Keel&#45;laying ceremony held for Ford carrier</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/FORDGAT14_20091114-141802/305691/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
NEWPORT NEWS&#8212;A keel-laying ceremony has been held for the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford at the Virginia shipyard where the $7 billion nuclear-powered ship is being assembled. The ship&#8217;s sponsor is the 38th president&#8217;s daughter, Susan Ford Bales. She delivered remarks Saturday at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding&#8217;s Newport News shipyard. Her initials were chalked onto a metal plate and welded into the massive keel.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 14 Nov 2009 14:18:02 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/FORDGAT14_20091114-141802/305691/#When:19:18:02Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Effects of storm abating in Va., Kaine says</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/WEAT141_20091113-231802/305671/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Four deaths, a trail of flooding in Va. A major storm that flooded southeastern Virginia and drenched much of the state should release its grip over the weekend and allow floodwaters to recede. &#8220;It&#8217;s going to be a very slow process,&#8220; said Mike Rusnak, a National Weather Service meteorologist in Wakefield. &#8220;We still expect some coastal flooding into Saturday.&#8220;           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:01:11 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/WEAT141_20091113-231802/305671/#When:05:01:11Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Police: Missing Tech student likely was hitchhiking</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/TECH141_20091113-234401/305673/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
State police announced yesterday that they believe Morgan D. Harrington was trying to hitchhike on a Copeley Road bridge the night she disappeared, which her father said isn&#8217;t something she&#8217;d normally do. &#8220;That&#8217;s certainly out of character for her and unexplained,&#8220; said her father, Dan Harrington. The Harringtons presume their daughter was the victim of foul play, but police have yet to turn up any evidence pointing toward a crime.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/TECH141_20091113-234401/305673/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Danville TEA Party members reportedly plan to burn Perriello, Pelosi in effigy</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/PERR14_20091113-222808/305652/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Members of the Danville TEA Party reportedly plan to burn Rep. Tom Perriello, D-5th, and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in effigy at a Nov. 21 rally. Last Saturday, Perriello was one of four Virginia Democrats who voted in favor of the $1.2 trillion health-care overhaul. Two Virginia Democrats and all five Republicans voted against the bill.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/PERR14_20091113-222808/305652/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Gov.&#45;elect McDonnell announces senior advisers to transition team</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/MCDO14S_20091113-222808/305650/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Senior advisers to Gov.-elect Bob McDonnell&#8217;s transition team include former members of Congress, veterans of former Gov. George Allen&#8217;s administration, and representatives of key constituent groups, from business to the National Rifle Association and The Virginia Family Foundation. The senior advisers, announced yesterday, are:             ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/MCDO14S_20091113-222808/305650/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>McDonnell meets House Democrats, stresses common ground</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/MCDO14_20091113-222603/305645/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Republican Gov.-elect Bob McDonnell emerged from a meeting with House Democrats yesterday afternoon saying both sides are committed to working together to bring Virginia more jobs and economic prosperity. &#8220;I think there&#8217;s a lot of common ground that we can find on economic development, on job creation, on improving schools,&#8220; McDonnell said in a brief interview after his afternoon address to the caucus. It gathered at The Crossings in Glen Allen in Henrico County for its annual fall retreat.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/MCDO14_20091113-222603/305645/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Plan is announced for ATV trail system in Southwest Virginia</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/TRAL14_20091113-213404/305562/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Southwest Virginia could become a mecca for what Michael Wampler calls &#8220;adventure tourism.&#8220; And that adventure could start with a plan&#8212;unveiled Thursday at a conference in Norton&#8212;to make the state&#8217;s seven westernmost counties a destination for all-terrain vehicle users, said Wampler, a member of the Southwest Regional Recreational Authority.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/TRAL14_20091113-213404/305562/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Police: Missing Tech student likely was hitchhiking</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/TECH14_20091113-213404/305561/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Investigators believe Morgan Dana Harrington was hitchhiking before she disappeared, police said yesterday morning. Harrington, a 20-year-old Virginia Tech student, has been missing since the night of Oct. 17, when she attended a Metallica concert at the University of Virginia&#8217;s John Paul Jones Arena. After talking with friends on her cell phone, authorities say Harrington walked through the parking lot of U.Va.&#8216;s University Hall and was also seen in the Lannigan Field athlete parking lot, which is also used for RV parking. At about 9:30 p.m., she was seen walking on the Copeley Road bridge near Ivy Road, according to state police.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/TECH14_20091113-213404/305561/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Four Gloucester supervisors allege defamation in lawsuits</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/GLOU14_20091113-213404/305558/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Four Gloucester County supervisors have each filed a $1.35 million lawsuit against Commonwealth&#8217;s Attorney Robert D. Hicks, saying that he made defamatory and false statements against them that smeared their reputations. The lawsuits were filed Nov. 3 in Richmond Circuit Court by lawyers from the Troutman Sanders law firm who are representing Gloucester supervisors Teresa Altemus, Bobby Crewe, Michelle Ressler and Gregory Woodard.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/GLOU14_20091113-213404/305558/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>D&#45;Day Memorial to remain open this winter despite financial woes</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/DDAY14_20091113-213404/305557/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The National D-Day Memorial in Bedford will remain open for the winter despite its financial struggles, said William McIntosh, president of the memorial foundation. The memorial would operate from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. throughout the winter season except during bad weather and Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year&#8217;s Day. It will close at 1 p.m. on Christmas Eve and New Year&#8217;s Eve.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/DDAY14_20091113-213404/305557/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>U.Va.&#8216;s Cavalier Daily trimming five publication days</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/CAVV14_20091113-213404/305556/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The 119-year-old student newspaper at the University of Virginia announced this week that it will not publish a print edition on certain days this academic year to cut costs amid the economic downturn. The Cavalier Daily said in an editorial that it was removing five newspapers from this year&#8217;s production schedule, starting with Nov. 6.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/CAVV14_20091113-213404/305556/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>State police report a fourth traffic fatality due to storm</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/FATLGAT13_20091113-153002/305510/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Virginia State Police today reported a fourth weather-related traffic fatality in Virginia. Police said Cristopher E. Wright, 28, of Hampton, was killed just after 2 a.m. Wednesday in a single-vehicle crash in Hampton. Wright was entering the ramp from Hampton Roads Center Parkway to westbound Interstate 64 when his car veered off the road and struck a light pole and then a tree. Wright, who was not wearing a safety belt, died at the scene.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:30:01 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/FATLGAT13_20091113-153002/305510/#When:20:30:01Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Police: Missing Va. Tech student seen hitchhiking</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/TECHGAT13_20091113-124201/305502/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Virginia State Police say they believe a Virginia Tech student missing for nearly a month was hitchhiking after she left a Metallica concert in Charlottesville. Police said today that witnesses saw a woman fitting the description of 20-year-old Morgan Dana Harrington of Roanoke on a bridge that crosses railroad tracks trying to get a ride. Harrington became separated from her friends after she left the concert arena Oct. 17 and was denied re-entry. She told them she would find a way home. Police say they want to hear from anyone who might have loaned a cell phone to a woman fitting Harrington&#8217;s description. Police say Harrington was wearing a distinctive necklace made of large crystal chain links.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 13 Nov 2009 12:42:02 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/TECHGAT13_20091113-124201/305502/#When:17:42:02Z</guid>
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          <title>Va. Railway Express rail warns of Fredericksburg&#45;line delays Monday</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/va._railway_express_rail_warns_of_fredericksburg-line_delays_monday/305498/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Virginia Railway Express commuters are likely to experience severe delays Monday as scheduled signal work on the Fredericksburg line likely will push schedules behind by up to an hour.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:33:52 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/va._railway_express_rail_warns_of_fredericksburg-line_delays_monday/305498/#When:16:33:52Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>UPDATE: Kaine says storm&#8217;s effects abating</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/update_southeast_keeps_watch_on_morning_tide_storm_surge/305484/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Governor says that officials are monitoring river levels but that flooding in streams may not be as bad as feared; highway death toll climbs to four.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 13 Nov 2009 06:52:54 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/update_southeast_keeps_watch_on_morning_tide_storm_surge/305484/#When:11:52:54Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Storm drenches state; at least three dead</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/WEAT13_20091112-222608/305447/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A historic storm inflicted severe flooding on southeastern Virginia, pelted the state with heavy rain and contributed to at least three deaths yesterday. The coastal storm, fed by moisture from the remnants of Tropical Storm Ida, also whipped up winds that hit 75 mph in Virginia Beach and 40 mph in the Richmond area.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:01:51 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/WEAT13_20091112-222608/305447/#When:05:01:51Z</guid>
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          <title>Kaine attends Arkansas fundraiser during flooding</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/KAIN13_20091112-221608/305416/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Gov. Timothy M. Kaine, chairman of the Democratic National Committee, was in Arkansas yesterday while parts of Virginia coped with flooding. Kaine, who appeared at a fundraiser in Little Rock with Gov. Mike Beebe, was scheduled to fly back to Virginia last night. This morning, at the state&#8217;s Emergency Operations Center on Midlothian Turnpike, the Virginia Department of Emergency Management will brief Kaine on the latest conditions around the state and on Virginia&#8217;s response to the storm.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:01:27 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/KAIN13_20091112-221608/305416/#When:05:01:27Z</guid>
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          <title>Several school divisions opening late</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/WEAT13G3_20091112-225201/305477/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A number of school divisions in central Virginia will open late today after this week&#8217;s heavy rains and flooding. The following county school districts reported two-hour delays: Amelia, Dinwiddie, King and Queen, New Kent and Prince George. Also, Sussex County schools are closed today. For an updated list of delays and closings, visit TimesDispatch.com.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:01:11 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/WEAT13G3_20091112-225201/305477/#When:05:01:11Z</guid>
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          <title>Swine&#45;flu cases drop in Va.</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/VFLU13_20091112-191203/305349/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Swine flu appears to have been cut in half in Virginia. About 8 percent of people visiting emergency rooms across the state reported flulike illness, down from a high of 15 percent three weeks ago, according to the Virginia Department of Health. &#8220;It looks like we&#8217;ve gone over a hump,&#8220; said Dr. Marsh Cuttino, an emergency-medicine specialist with HCA Virginia Health System, which operates six Richmond-area hospitals. &#8220;We&#8217;re back almost to our normal levels.&#8220;           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:01:07 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/VFLU13_20091112-191203/305349/#When:05:01:07Z</guid>
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          <title>Perriello, Nye defend opposing votes on health care</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/HEAL13_20091112-221805/305430/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Rep. Tom Perriello, D-5th, last night held a telephone town hall with more than 8,000 participants to explain his vote in favor of the $1.2 trillion health-care overhaul. Meanwhile, Rep. Glenn Nye, D-2nd, took heat from the left as a progressive group launched an online ad campaign accusing him of &#8220;betraying&#8221; the Democratic Party by voting against the health-care bill.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/state_regional_govtpolitics/article/HEAL13_20091112-221805/305430/#When:05:01:00Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>3 die in weather&#45;related traffic crashes today in Virginia</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/CRSHGAT12_20091112-175401/305308/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Three people died today in weather-related crashes across Virginia, state police said this afternoon. The first wreck about 4:35 a.m. after a driver whose pickup truck collided with a fallen tree was struck and killed by a tractor-trailer on state Route 56 in Nelson County. Alger H. Fleming, 66, of Amherst was killed after he left his vehicle to inspect his damaged pickup. Police said he was struck by an eastbound tractor-trailer that swerved to avoid hitting Fleming&#8217;s pickup about 1.8 miles west of state Route 655. No charges will be filed, police said.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 12 Nov 2009 17:54:01 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/CRSHGAT12_20091112-175401/305308/#When:22:54:01Z</guid>
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          <title>Coast Guard closes Port of Hampton Roads</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/coast_guard_closes_port_of_hampton_roads/305300/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Coast Guard is closing the Port of Hampton Roads due to severe weather.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:45:38 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/coast_guard_closes_port_of_hampton_roads/305300/#When:20:45:38Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Community college board approves midyear tuition increase</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/community_college_board_approves_midyear_tuition_increase/305299/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The State Board for Community Colleges today approved a midyear tuition increase to offset state budget cuts. 
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:40:05 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/community_college_board_approves_midyear_tuition_increase/305299/#When:20:40:05Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>W.Va., Va. flying squirrel subject of federal lawsuit</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/w.va._va._flying_squirrel_subject_of_federal_lawsuit/305293/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Environmental groups have sued a federal agency for removing a flying squirrel found only in high mountain forests of West Virginia and Virginia from the endangered species list.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 12 Nov 2009 14:49:29 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/w.va._va._flying_squirrel_subject_of_federal_lawsuit/305293/#When:19:49:29Z</guid>
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          <title>Twins sought in Blackstone assault surrender</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/twins_sought_in_blackstone_assault_surrender/305291/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Twin brothers sought in an assault that was followed by a string of shootings in Blackstone have turned themselves in, Police Chief Nicholas C. Kuzmiak said today.
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 12 Nov 2009 14:43:06 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/twins_sought_in_blackstone_assault_surrender/305291/#When:19:43:06Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>VDOT offers safe driving tips</title>
          <link>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/vdot_offers_safe_driving_tips/305285/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Virginia Department of Transportation this afternoon is offering these safety guidelines for motorists who must travel during heavy rain. 
           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 12 Nov 2009 14:12:13 EST</pubDate>
<guid>http://www2.timesdispatch.com/rtd/news/state_regional/article/vdot_offers_safe_driving_tips/305285/#When:19:12:13Z</guid>
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