Good morning,

The newsroom is a bustling place this morning.  Some of the state's top broadcasters and Rep. Robert Hurt will be in the Newsplex tomorrow for meetings about the business side of television.  That means it's time to spruce up the newsroom and the hallways.  We'll be doing an in-depth interview with the Congressman tomorrow about the developments in Washington.  Hurt is in an interesting spot because he's always kept local Tea Partiers at arm's length.  He's largely supported and worked for their agenda but has been careful about fostering too close a connection so as not to alienate Democrats and moderates in what is still a split district.  You'll see that interview on our newscasts and on the web tomorrow.  If you have questions for Rep. Hurt, please pass them on in the form of comments on this blog entry.

Today, Carter Johnson is interviewing local business leaders who see a bright side in the developments yesterday on Wall Street and in the markets.  Last night at 11, Dan Schutte used a dry erase board and marker to break down some of the numbers and their significance.  Particularly interesting is the drop in the price of oil.  So far, no sign of that at my favorite gas stations.  The tank on my truck is a quarter full so it would be helpful if the big price cut could come soon.

Also tonight, Joe and Peter join us at 7 for political commentary on the City Council race.  Our pals from Blue Ridge Outdoors stop by at 5 to talk about their latest adventures.  Frankie Jupiter is covering a conference on the environment featuring several local experts.  And we've got a story in the works about the University of Virginia that you might find worthwhile.  More details on that on the newscasts this evening.

Have a good day...and let's hope for a better day on Wall Street and all of our Main Streets.

Jim