The chemistry building on American University's campus was evacuated Thursday after a report of smoke in the Beeghly Building. Emergency services personnel responded to the incident, but there were no injuries reported and no long-term damage to the building.

In the District, fire officials are trying to determine what caused Tuesday morning's fire at the Franklin Towers located downtown at 1401 I Street Northwest.

The Department of Education has leveled the maximum fine allowable on Virginia Tech for the 2007 shooting massacre that left 33 people, including the gunman, dead.

In Virginia, Asian-American groups from around the area have joined forces to help victims of the disaster in Japan.

The National Cherry Blossom Festival kicks off Saturday, and organizers are calling on the public to show solidarity with Japan in the wake of the earthquake and tsunami, and contribute to relief efforts overseas.

In Virginia, members of the Arlington County Police Department are being honored for their service on Sept. 11.