How we source, and how we fix mistakes
Every fact in a Virginia Pulse story comes from a primary source we opened: the document or record the decision was made in, not a news report about it.
What counts as a primary source
- County, city and town agendas, minutes, staff reports, ordinances and notices
- State agency, State Corporation Commission, General Assembly and Department of Elections records
- Governor's and agency press releases
- Company press releases, earnings releases and regulatory filings
- Court filings and dockets
What we do with news reports
Local newsrooms often find a story first. We use their reporting to learn that something is happening, then open the underlying document and cite that. If we cannot confirm a fact in a primary source, we leave it out.
Corrections
If we get something wrong, we fix the story and say what changed and when. To report an error, email with the story link and the correct source.
How to read a story
Each story ends with a Sources list. Official documents come first. Items marked "Vote Watch" are used only for real decisions, such as a board vote, a planning commission recommendation or a final order. Public comment hearings are labeled as hearings.
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