Here’s a concise roundup of today’s Virginia Times coverage—spanning Virginia developments, regional government, major business investment, and international headlines. Each item includes a short summary and a direct link to read the full report.
D.C. Sues Over National Guard Deployments
The District of Columbia sued the Trump administration over National Guard deployments, calling them an unconstitutional “involuntary military occupation.” According to the D.C. attorney general, federal officials overstepped legal boundaries and bypassed local authority in call-ups. The complaint asks a court to block future deployments absent statutory authorization and to affirm control. City leaders said the case defends residents’ rights while preserving home-rule powers long contested between the District and federal agencies.
Hitachi Energy’s $1B U.S. Grid Push Includes Virginia Plant
Hitachi Energy announced a $1 billion U.S. manufacturing push, including a Virginia large power transformer facility expected to create thousands of jobs. According to company statements and the White House, the investment targets grid bottlenecks as electricity demand surges with artificial intelligence. Officials said domestic capacity strengthens reliability, shortens lead times, and hardens supply chains. Virginia leaders framed the project as a milestone for manufacturing and a boost to the state’s energy-technology corridor.
ArtsFairfax Awards $592K to 56 Organizations
ArtsFairfax awarded nearly $592,000 in operating support to 56 local arts organizations for Fiscal Year 2026. According to the announcement, county commissioners maintained $1.5 million for arts programming, allowing steady support despite budget pressures. Grants span districts, including the cities of Fairfax and Falls Church, and complement project support and ticket-subsidy programs. Leaders said funding helps groups retain staff, plan seasons, and expand community access while tracking audience recovery and production costs.
Virginia Festivals Guide: September 2025
From apple harvest weekends to waterfront concerts, Virginia’s September festival calendar is packed. According to organizers, communities from the Blue Ridge to Tidewater are rolling out music, food, and family events with schedules, parking, and ticket details. The guide highlights can’t-miss dates, staples, and weather tips for first-timers. Readers can map weekend routes, pair agritourism stops with local dining, and plan around school calendars as early-fall crowds and foliage ramp up statewide.
Powerball Jackpot Hits $1.7 Billion
The Powerball jackpot climbed to about $1.7 billion, the third-largest in U.S. lottery history, with a cash option near $770 million. According to the Virginia Lottery, a $1 million ticket was sold in Manassas, and two players using the mobile app hit wins by matching four numbers plus the Powerball. Officials urged players to check tickets and play responsibly. The next drawing is Saturday, and retailers reported brisk sales across the state.
26 Nations Back Ukraine Security Guarantees
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said 26 countries at a Paris conference agreed in principle to provide Ukraine with security guarantees. According to Zelenskyy, his “long and detailed” talk with President Donald Trump covered tightening economic pressure on Russia and bolstering air defenses. European leaders signaled firm support while details on timelines and enforcement take shape. Kyiv framed the effort as building a durable security architecture to deter future aggression and stabilize reconstruction planning after the war.
Nepal Orders Facebook, YouTube, X to Shut Down Without Registration
Nepal ordered immediate shutdown of social media platforms that have not registered with the government. According to the communications ministry and telecom regulator, operators must block unregistered services and restore access only after compliance. Officials said the policy enforces accountability and user safety, while critics warned of free-speech limits and business harm. The directive affects Facebook, YouTube, and X, among others, and instructs carriers to implement restrictions nationwide beginning today, with appeals under review.
Berlin: Car Hits Schoolchildren in Wedding District
Berlin police said a car struck a group of school children and their supervisor in the Wedding district, injuring three students and seriously hurting the adult. According to a police spokesperson, the 20-year-old driver ran a red light and turned before the collision; investigators are testing for narcotics. Firefighters treated victims at the scene before hospital transport. Authorities added children’s injuries were not life-threatening, and detained the driver as the probe continues.
Portugal Declares Mourning After Lisbon Funicular Crash
Portugal declared a national day of mourning after a deadly crash on Lisbon’s Elevador da Glória funicular killed at least 17 people and injured 21. According to officials, the yellow-and-white car derailed on the steep slope near Restauradores Square and struck a building just after the evening rush. City hall announced three days of mourning as emergency teams identified victims. Investigators are reviewing safeguards and maintenance records while memorials grow along the route.
This wrap-up reflects Virginia Times coverage published on Thursday, September 4, 2025 (ET).
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