Local News from WAMU 88.5

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Impacts Of Libyan Conflict On Gas Prices Still Uncertain

Gas prices are 35 percent higher than a year ago. Part of the reason is the civil war in Libya, which caused oil production to virtually shut down.

MLK Memorial Open To Everyone Today -- Not Just D.C. Residents

Today is D.C residents day at the new Martin Luther King Memorial, although the monument will be open to all members of the public throughout the day.

D.C. Mayor Hosts 'Virtual March' For Voting Rights

As the District welcomes tens of thousands of visitors this week for the upcoming Martin Luther King Memorial dedication, city officials are hoping to use Dr. King's legacy to highlight D.C.'s own struggle for autonomy.

Voting In Virginia Primaries Today

They may not be at the top of everyone's to-do list for summer activities, but Virginia primaries for a number of General Assembly and local offices are taking place today. This year's primaries were scheduled later than normal due to redistricting, an many voters may find they need to familiarize themselves with their new district boundaries.

For Many Students In DCPS, Day Two Will Be Day One

Yesterday was officially the first day of school for D.C. public schools, both traditional and charter. But for some DCPS students today will be the first day of school.

Congress Ready To Back Down U.S. Involvement In Libya

With the recent gains made by Libyan rebels, lawmakers in the region say the international mission has been justified, but it’s now time to draw down U.S. military involvement in the country.

Police In Montgomery County Give Warning To Residents As Daylight Wanes

Summer is drawing to an end, and that means less daylight. Police in Montgomery County say that could lead to an increase in crime if residents aren't careful.

Maryland DREAM Act Friends And Foes Applaud DHS Decision On Deportations

Both sides of the debate on Maryland’s DREAM Act are applauding last week's decision from the federal Department of Homeland Security regarding deportations.

The Hill's Alex Bolton: The Earthquake Reaction On Capitol Hill

With Congress in recess and President Barack Obama on vacation, most elected officials were not on hand for Tuesday's 5.8 magnitude earthquake. Alex Bolton, senior staff writer for The Hill newspaper reports that the effects were felt nonetheless.

Quake Shook Nuclear Power Plants As Far Away as Michigan

The North Anna Nuclear Plant located near the epicenter of Virginia's 5.9 magnitude earthquake was taken offline and several other plants were being inspected.

VA Governor: No Statewide State Of Emergency

Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell says there appears to be no major damage or injuries from a 5.8 magnitude earthquake that hit near Mineral, Va.

5.8 Magnitude Earthquake Hits D.C. Region

The U.S. Geological Survey is reporting a 5.8 magnitude earthquake that hit about 100 miles south of Washington D.C. at 1:51 p.m. and was felt as far north as Boston, according to the Associated Press.

Monday, August 22, 2011

Higher Education Standards Awaits D.C.P.S. Students As They Return To School

Today is the first day of school for traditional and charter public schools in the District. D.C. Public Schools opened its doors today to approximately 45,000 students, almost 4,000 teachers and more than 6,500 staff.

MLK Memorial Preview Brings Crowds Of Tourists And Local Residents

Washingtonians are getting their first close-up look at the new memorial dedicated to Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. today.

Libyan Ambassador To Ask Treasury Department Unfreeze Gadhafi's Assets

It's a busy day in Washington for the Libyan ambassador as rebel forces in Tripoli close in on long-time dictator Moamar Gadhafi.

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