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Articles by Lauren Keller
Gov. Spanberger joins two ‘National Night Out' events in the Valley
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - “National Night Out” events took place across the nation and the Valley on Tuesday, and two communities were joined by a special guest. Gov. Abigail Spanberger, alongside state Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Stanley Meador, celebrated the annual event in both Harrisonburg and Augusta County. The governor said she was excited to attend both events. “It's just a great community event,” Spanberger said.
Va. Gov. Spanberger joins two valley ‘National Night Out’ events
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - “National Night Out” events took place across the nation and the valley on Tuesday, and two communities were joined by a special guest. Gov. Abigail Spanberger, alongside state Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Stanley Meador, celebrated the annual event in both Harrisonburg and Augusta County. The governor said she was excited to attend both events. “It’s just a great community event,” Spanberger said.
New Va. law aims to give more accessibility for students to take SAT
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - School is almost back in session, and there is something new for high school students in the Commonwealth. Virginia schools are now required to offer the SAT to juniors and seniors on-site during the school day. This day is called “SAT School Day” and was established through House Bill 410. Juniors and seniors can take the test in the fall or spring testing windows for the 2026-27 school year according to a press release from College Board. Gov.
Harrisonburg's first outdoor gear consignment store 'gears up' for grand opening
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - Derrick Troyer and his wife, Manuela Nogueira, founded Outsider Gear Exchange, located at 50 S. Mason St. #110, with their love of the outdoors. The two met while backpacking in Argentina in 2008. They both saw a need for a consignment store in Harrisonburg and will soon be the city's first. Their goal is affordability and keeping outdoor gear out of the trash.
Harrisonburg’s new outdoor gear consignment store ‘gears up’ for grand opening
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - Derrick Troyer and his wife, Manuela Nogueira, founded Outsider Gear Exchange, located at 50 S. Mason St. #110, with their love of the outdoors. The two met while backpacking in Argentina in 2008. They both saw a need for a consignment store selling outdoor exploration equipment in Harrisonburg and will soon be the city’s first. Their goal is affordability and keeping outdoor gear out of the trash.
New Va. law aims to give more accessibility for students to take SAT
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - School is almost back in session, and there is something new for high school students in the Commonwealth. Virginia schools are now required to offer the SAT to juniors and seniors on-site during the school day. This day is called “SAT School Day” and was established through House Bill 410. Juniors and seniors can take the test in the fall or spring testing windows for the 2026-27 school year according to a press release from College Board. Gov.
Harrisonburg’s first outdoor gear consignment store ‘gears up’ for grand opening
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - Derrick Troyer and his wife, Manuela Nogueira, founded Outsider Gear Exchange, located at 50 S. Mason St. #110, with their love of the outdoors. The two met while backpacking in Argentina in 2008. They both saw a need for a consignment store in Harrisonburg and will soon be the city’s first. Their goal is affordability and keeping outdoor gear out of the trash.
New Va. law aims to give more accessibility for students to take SAT
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - School is almost back in session, and there is something new for high school students in the Commonwealth. Virginia schools are now required to offer the SAT to juniors and seniors on-site during the school day. This day is called “SAT School Day” and was established through House Bill 410. Juniors and seniors can take the test in the fall or spring testing windows for the 2026-27 school year according to a press release from College Board. Gov.
‘Meant the world': Former Rockingham Co. Fair pageant winners reflect on its impact
ROCKINGHAM COUNTY, Va. (WHSV) - Though the Rockingham County Fair is over a week away, one event this weekend will have friendly competition filling the Exhibit Hall. The Rockingham County Fair Scholarship Pageant is more than just putting on a show, it's also made an impact on those who have won. All of the queens from 2025's competition plan to use the scholarship money they won for classes.
Waynesboro WWII veteran celebrates 102nd birthday
WAYNESBORO, Va. (WHSV) - Waynesboro resident and veteran John Morzian has reached his 102nd birthday. “I can hardly believe I’m 102 now,” Morzian said. Morzian served in the U.S. Navy for three years during World War II. He recalled how during the war, bombs were thrown near him. “My ear exploded,” Morzian said, “And I felt death for a while.” He said his ears kept ringing and still do today. Morzian also had an identical twin brother.
Former Rockingham County Fair pageant winners speak about its impact
ROCKINGHAM COUNTY, Va. (WHSV) - Though the Rockingham County Fair is over a week away, one event this weekend will have friendly competition filling the Exhibit Hall. The Rockingham County Fair Scholarship Pageant is more than just putting on a show, it’s also made an impact on those who have won. All of the queens from 2025’s competition plan to use the scholarship money they won for classes.
JMU's arboretum receives grant, looking for future community help
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - Additional funding is coming to James Madison University's Edith J. Carrier Arboretum after it received a grant of $163,410 from the Chesapeake Bay Trust. This funding comes to support the arboretum's reforestation project, along with JMU's ongoing expansion of the arboretum from 63 acres to over 110 acres. The grant will fund planting around 1,500 native trees and shrubs. The planting is set to begin this fall. Katie Rankin, JMU's Edith J.
Harrisonburg City Council votes to end contract with Flock Safety
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - Harrisonburg City Council upheld its pledge to end the City’s contract with Flock Safety in a unanimous 4-0 vote. The vote included: Mayor Deanna Reed Vice Mayor Dany Fleming Council Member Laura Dent Council Member Monica Robinson Many members of the ‘Deflock Harrisonburg’ group and others in attendance at Tuesday night’s meeting clapped after the vote.
JMU’s Arboretum receives grant, looking for future community help
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - Additional funding is coming to James Madison University’s Edith J. Carrier Arboretum after it received a grant of $163,410 from the Chesapeake Bay Trust. This funding comes to support the arboretum’s reforestation project, along with JMU’s ongoing expansion of the arboretum from 63 acres to over 110 acres. The grant will fund planting around 1,500 native trees and shrubs. The planting is set to begin this fall. Katie Rankin, JMU’s Edith J.
Virginia's first Buc-ee's continues its impact after over a year since opening
MOUNT CRAWFORD, Va. (WHSV) - Virginia's first Buc-ee's drove people into Mount Crawford by the thousands when it opened June 30, 2025. Since then, it's continued to have an impact on the town and Rockingham County. “They're traveling hundreds of miles at a time and they're choosing to stop at Buc-ee's,” said Casey Armstrong, Rockingham County's county administrator. One impact Buc-ee's has had is its meal tax revenue.
Massanutten Animal Clinic reopens at its new location in Penn Laird
PENN LAIRD, Va. (WHSV) - Massanutten Animal Clinic reopened at its new location in Penn Laird on Monday. Dr. Samantha Hall, managing veterinarian, said there was some anxiety but a lot of excitement when the doors opened. “It’s been a long road and journey to get here,” Hall said. “As a manager, I’m so excited for my staff to have this facility for them to work out of.” One change from the previous clinic is space. The new location offers 10 exam rooms instead of four.
Virginia’s first Buc-ee’s continues its impact after over a year since opening
MOUNT CRAWFORD, Va. (WHSV) - Virginia’s first Buc-ee’s drove people into Mount Crawford by the thousands when it opened June 30, 2025. Since then, it’s continued to have an impact on the town and Rockingham County. “They’re traveling hundreds of miles at a time and they’re choosing to stop at Buc-ee’s,” Casey Armstrong, Rockingham County’s county administrator, said. One impact Buc-ee’s has had is its meal tax revenue.
Harrisonburg City Council pledges the removal of Flock cameras, to end contract late July
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - Harrisonburg City Council was packed with community members inside and outside of City Hall, all for an issue of Flock cameras Tuesday night. Before public comment, Mayor of Harrisonburg Deanna Reed moved for City Council to discuss the technology and what it plans to do. Mayor Reed turned it over to Council Member Monica Robinson to start, and Robinson spoke about how she is thankful the community has taught her more about the cameras and the company.
Harrisonburg City Council pledges the removal of flock cameras, to end contract late July
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - Harrisonburg City Council was packed with community members inside and outside of City Hall, all for an issue of Flock cameras Tuesday night. Before public comment, Mayor of Harrisonburg Deanna Reed moved for City Council to discuss the technology and what it plans to do. Mayor Reed turned it over to Council Member Monica Robinson to start, and Robinson spoke about how she is thankful the community has taught her more about the cameras and the company.
VDOT releases survey data, majority agree on rail-to-trail option
ROCKINGHAM COUNTY, Va. (WHSV) - After three public meetings in April and thousands of survey responses, the results are in on where Virginian’s and those in the Valley stand on VDOT’s “Shenandoah Valley Rail-With-Trail Assessment.” One of the questions asked in the survey was: “Given the estimated costs, considerations, and potential benefits, which option do you believe is the best investment for the Commonwealth of Virginia?” The overall majority agreed with the rail-to-trail option.
Valley energy companies voice support for new state energy affordability initiative
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - Gov. Abigail Spanberger announced the first-in-the-Nation energy affordability initiative on Monday. The ‘Switch Together’ program to is offered to Virginians to optionally switch to solar panels. The goal is to reduce the price of solar installations and electricity costs. Preston Knight, communications manager for Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative, said the cooperative encourages members, if interested, to explore the opportunity of solar panels.
Bridgewater Volunteer Fire looks for more volunteers for annual Lawn Party
BRIDGEWATER, Va. (WHSV) - Bridgewater Volunteer Fire Company’s Annual Lawn Party is in need of more volunteers to celebrate its 88th year. The volunteer work started today. Volunteers cut and weighed ham for sandwiches that will be provided at the event. This lawn party is a fundraiser for the fire company. Joshua Shank, Bridgewater Volunteer Fire Company chief and lawn party chairman, said -- due to inflation and increasing prices -- the event funds a quarter of its annual income.
How Harrisonburg Fire Department prepares for the heat in heavy equipment
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - Some of the gear the Harrisonburg Fire Department firefighters have to wear include a jacket, gloves, a helmet, mask, boots, pants and an air pack. During this summer heat, firefighters are aware of staying healthy and cool while wearing heavy equipment. Wesley Meadows, captain of training at the Harrisonburg Fire Department, said he noticed that the equipment does not breathe well, its hot and heavy -- but that’s how it does its job.
HDPT launches myStop app for riders to receive real-time bus information
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - The Harrisonburg Department of Transportation has released a new app for people who use the city’s bus lines called myStop. The app allows users to see which Harrisonburg buses are running, the closest stop and bus routes. Michael Parks, the city of Harrisonburg’s director of communications, said the app should work similar to Passio Go — another real-time bus tracking app that the city has used up to this point.
Harrisonburg Planning Commission split on The Lindsey, formerly The Link Apartments
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - The Harrisonburg Planning Commission met at City Hall for the third time to consider the rezoning of The Lindsey, formerly known as The Link Apartments.
Harrisonburg Fire Department delivers pizza with a side of safety through annual event
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - The Harrisonburg Fire Department was out in full force Wednesday night, not for an emergency, but to deliver free pizza and check smoke alarms for Harrisonburg residents. Harrisonburg Fire Department’s 23rd annual Smoke Alarm and Free Pizza Night was held in collaboration with Cici’s Pizza. Lt. Erin Stehle of the Harrisonburg Fire Department said an important part of the event is how the department can meet the community where they are.
Brite Bus Transit Service sees new fleet receiving positive response
STAUNTON, Va. (WHSV) - The Brite Bus Transit Service runs throughout Staunton, Waynesboro and Augusta County, and is now doing so with a new bus fleet. The contract ended June 30, and a new contractor signed on, which also provided the new fleet of buses. On Wednesday, July 1, those new vehicles hit the road. Senior Transit Planner Devon Thompson said as she welcomed riders to the buses, she only heard positive feedback.
Harrisonburg fire chief explains what ‘modified response’ looks like
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - Every fire department has a plan to respond to every emergency. But what does a ‘modified response’ mean for the Harrisonburg Fire Department? HFD chief Matthew Tobia, said when lightning strikes within a 10-mile radius of James Madison University’s Bridgeforth Stadium, sensors go off. The city will then automatically go into a modified response. Tobia said during storms, lightning is common to trigger an automatic fire alarm, and most likely is not an emergency.
Gypsy Hill Park flooding said to be ‘normal’, causes minor erosion
STAUNTON, Va. (WHSV) - Staunton received two inches of rain in a matter of 30 minutes Sunday night, and residents voiced concern after pictures of flooding were posted on social media. However, Willow Hughes, Staunton’s environmental programs administrator, said the flood by the baseball field in Gypsy Hill Park and on the sidewalks is not uncommon.
MBU student voices concern over school’s probation, uncertain future
STAUNTON, Va. (WHSV) - Mary Baldwin University students received an email at the end of June news that MBU was placed on ‘Probation for Good Cause’ by its accreditor, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Lillian Jenkins, a second-semester junior, transferred to MBU said she received the email while at work. She said she knew the university had financial issues, but did not think it could get to this point. “I was very scared, obviously,” Jenkins said.
VPAS advises on heat safety and gives resources for older adults
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - As the heat stays for the summer, older adults may be impacted by the changes in temperature. Vickie Landes, case manager for Valley Program Aging Services, said that as we age, we can become dehydrated much faster and not even realize it. Landes advised older adults to stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day and recommended to be prepared if you must be outside, drink water before you feel thirst and wear lighter clothing.
Mary Baldwin University on probation for allegedly not meeting financial responsibility standards
STAUNTON, Va. (WHSV) - The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges -- who accredits Mary Baldwin University -- placed the institution on ‘Probation for Good Cause’ for a year. The association said this is due to the university allegedly not meeting the commission’s financial responsibility standard. According to the SACSCOC Disclosure Statement, MBU has been monitored since June 2024.
Staunton Cooling Shelter opens for summer season
STAUNTON, Va. (WHSV) - Staunton Cooling Shelter opened its doors Monday afternoon in the basement of Faith Lutheran Church. The space aims to serve Augusta County, Staunton and Waynesboro residents who are unhoused or whose AC is not working properly. The shelter is “low-barrier,” meaning it does not screen residents before entering. It offers free food, water, books, games, AC and more.
‘Valley Hero’ surprised with free HVAC installation
STAUNTON, Va. (WHSV) - Sarah Blackwell’s home was running off some window HVAC units to keep the upstairs comfortable. She needed a new HVAC unit as she did not have heating upstairs and had a lack of ducting in her home. She called someone she’s known for years for help. Adam Purcell, Blackwell’s colleague and president of the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office foundation, answered.
‘Play All Day VA’ encourages Harrisonburg residents to celebrate the longest day
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) - Harrisonburg City residents took a splash at Westover pool this Sunday. June 21 marked the summer solstice, and the longest day of the year, which is marked by the statewide initiative ‘Play All Day VA.’ Residents got free admission to the community parks and pool. One Harrisonburg resident, Michael Barnes, said he plans to stay at the pool for hours. “It’s my first time at Westover Park in the pool, but I love swimming,” Barnes said. “I live a few streets down.
Waynesboro man arrested on multiple charges of child pornography possession
WAYNESBORO, Va. (WHSV) - The Waynesboro Police Department arrested a man from the city on Monday for suspected possession of child pornography. After referrals from the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and further investigation, WPD identified the suspect as James David Cox. Cox is charged with one count of possession of child pornography and four counts of child pornography in the second or subsequent offense, according to WPD.
Tax Information for Those Impacted by the Los Angeles County Wildfires | JD Supra
As a Los Angeles-based firm, we are deeply saddened by the devastation caused by the recent wildfires. We remain committed to supporting our clients and friends during this time and are hopeful that the general tax information outlined below may be helpful as those affected by the wildfires begin to consider plans to recover and rebuild.
Biden to Sign CHIPS Act, Including Brand New Investment Tax Credit for Semiconductor Facilities | JD Supra
On July 28, 2022, Congress passed the CHIPS Act (CHIPS). Among other things, CHIPS adds Section 48D to the Internal Revenue Code, which provides a new advanced manufacturing investment tax credit for investments in semiconductor manufacturing. CHIPS, including the new tax credit, is a standalone bill separate and apart from the recent legislative package reportedly agreed upon between Senators Joe Manchin and Chuck Schumer. President Biden is expected to sign the bill into law.
Proposed “Inflation Reduction Act” Could Significantly Curtail Carried Interest Tax Benefits | JD Supra
Overview of Current Rule and Changes Section 1061 of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”), enacted in 2017, treats capital gains from an applicable partnership interest (an “API”) as short-term capital gain unless the asset sold was held for at least three years. An API generally is a partnership interest that is received by a taxpayer in connection with the taxpayer’s performance of services in an applicable trade or business (including most investment funds).
Deemed Repatriation Guidance: IRS Issues Proposed Regulations on Transition Tax | Lexology
The U.S. Treasury and the IRS recently released comprehensive proposed regulations with respect to the deemed repatriation provision (the "transition tax"), which imposes a one-time "toll charge" on certain U.S. persons with foreign earnings accumulated offshore (the "proposed regulations"). For the most part, the proposed regulations follow guidance announced in three prior notices and a revenue procedure, with some modifications and additional rules.
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