Weekly Newsletter
March 2, 2017
In the News
Lt. Governor Ralph Northam Tours Pocahontas Island and Old Towne

Virginia Port Authority Partners with Georgia Ports to Increase Efficiency and Effectiveness 
Partner Spotlight
Virginia Credit Union is a not-for-profit, financial cooperative owned by its members and headquartered in Richmond. The union offers its members a variety of affordable banking services including savings and checking accounts, loans, credit cards and mortgages. As a cooperative, Virginia Credit Union operates solely for the benefit of its members, not outside stockholders. Earnings of the cooperative are returned to the membership through lower fees, attractive rates, better services and financial education. Members receive personal attention through a full-service call center, branches, shared facilities and online services.

 
Virginia's Gateway Region Links Surry to Economic Development

By Michael Campbell | Surry-Sussex Dispatch | Full Article 

SURRY - 2,800 square miles makes up the Virginia Gateway Region, comprised of five counties and three cities between Chesterfield, the Tri-Cities, along with Dinwiddie, Prince George, Sussex and Surry counties, creating a unique economic opportunity a local group is trying to help localities capitalize on.

Recently, Virginia Gateway Region president and CEO Renee Chapline spoke with the Surry Board of Supervisors about the nonprofit organization's mission along with the value the provide through services and connecting the localities they serve with valuable economic development opportunities.
John Tyler Community College to Offer Degree with No Textbook Costs

Staff Report | Richmond Times-Dispatch | Full Article  

John Tyler Community College will pilot a program in the fall to allow students to earn an associate degree in general studies without having to pay for textbooks.

Called the Z-Degree, the program will use no-cost electronic textbooks and educational materials. Because textbooks can account for 25 percent of college costs, the Z-Degree could save students as much as $2,000. The only classroom material a student may have to purchase is a lab kit required by some science classes, which cost about $40. Students who enroll in the Z-Degree Pilot Program will earn a degree by completing 16-week courses over four semesters.