VMI rape case scheduled
for trial Oct. 14

An allegation of rape brought by a female cadet is the first such case from VMI to be brought before a criminal court. (The Rockbridge Report/CAMERON STEELE)

The former Virginia Military Institute cadet who has been accused of rape will go to court on Oct. 14 as planned, said the defendant’s defense attorney and the prosecutor.
 
Stephen Lloyd, 21, has been charged with the rape and sodomy of a female cadet. The female cadet, who still attends VMI, reported the incident to the school nurse in March. After investigating the charges, VMI police arrested Lloyd on April 1. Lloyd no longer attends VMI.

The prosecutor’s evidence includes a swab taken from the woman’s neck that points to Lloyd’s DNA.

Beth Jewell tells students to cover their mouth when they sneeze, and to wash their hands "for the length of the alphabet song" (The Rockbridge Report/CAMERON DEWING)

Area schools fight swine flu outbreak

By CAMERON DEWING

Swine flu has hit the Rockbridge community, and vaccines won't be available for another two weeks. But local schools have already implemented programs to combat the virus by getting kids to practice good hygiene. And with two cases of pneumonia resulting from the illness, the timing couldn't be better.

State bonds will help finance much of the $9 million Lylburn Downing renovation but Lexington officials questioned why the state would not fund the entire project. (The Rockbridge Report/ERIN GALLIHER)

Lexington grasping
for state money

By VICTORIA TAYLOR

Lexington qualified for state construction bonds, but the funds will only cover $7.5 million of the $9 million needed to complete the Lylburn Downing Middle School renovation project. Now, city officials are questioning why the state decided not to finance the other $1.5 million.

Despite intially grim projections, Macado's has successfully carved its own niche in the hearts of Lexington diners (The Rockbridge Report/ALEX SCAGGS)

Lexington residents and students flock to Macado's

By STEPHANIE MARKS

The Rockbridge Report gives you an inside look at the recent addition to the Lexington dining scene.

Lexington businesses strong amidst recession

Bridal Show enjoys a successful second year