News Briefs

From elsewhere: Amazon to close 5 Virginia stores, cut nearly 700 jobs. Fairfax case alleging school-assisted abortions now in federal court. Lynchburg dad’s front-yard igloo brings cozy movie nights for family of 9.

From elsewhere: Confederate statues remain at Virginia’s Capitol; this bill would remove them. Roanoke’s Harrison Museum of African American Culture reopens. Injured kangaroo helped off Nelson County road by deputies.

Also: Wilderness Road State Park in Lee County to hold public meeting Feb. 3. Grant awarded for guitar maker in Tazewell County.

From elsewhere: 156 jobs could be at risk in Roanoke school system. Clarksville rejects battery storage proposal. Botetourt County working with “major national destination retailer.”

From elsewhere: All Virginia public employees could collectively bargain under proposed bills. Virginia House revives school construction tax plan once blocked by Youngkin. Virginia Senate votes to bar Guard deployment here without state consent.

From elsewhere: Pending bill could clarify visitation standards for Virginia correctional facilities. Appeals court to hear arguments in LU’s bid to dismiss trans employee’s lawsuit. Dominion installs first wind farm turbine tower off Virginia Beach coast.

From elsewhere: Youngkin long had ambitions beyond Virginia; what’s next is anyone’s guess. Price-gouging law activates in Virginia after state of emergency declared. Prosecutors: Henrico hospital’s actions hindered 2023 investigation of injured newborns.

From elsewhere: Parents flood General Assembly to advocate for more early childhood care options and access. Proposed reparations fund for urban renewal is hazy amid Roanoke fiscal mess, council members warn. Martinsville mayor’s case for protective order against council member dismissed.

From elsewhere: Proposed state park at Oak Hill clears first hurdle in Senate. Smithfield Foods to acquire Nathan’s Famous for $450 million. Mecklenburg planners delay Turtle Cove resort vote after 250 people pack hearing.