CHESTERFIELD, VA (WWBT)- Governor Bob McDonnell put pen to paper Wednesday, making new school safety measures across Virginia official.

There are 12 new laws tackling everything from bullying to emergency plans in schools.

The signing ceremony was held at Robious Elementary School, a live lesson of government in action, but what was signed there was meant to protect little learners all across Virginia.

"These 12 bills that I sign today will help Virginia to do everything I think is possible right now to protect you precious young people," McDonnell told students.

The laws are intended to fight things like bullying and mental illness. They will also put tools in place to keep intruders out and help students practice how to react when something bad happens.  

"You're going to have to practice that," said McDonnell. "And we don't want you to be nervous or scared. We just want you to be prepared!"

CHESTERFIELD, VA (WWBT)- The plane that crashed into Lake Chesdin is out of the water, after a six-hour process. The two pilots who were riding in it, are saying prayers of thanks.

"It's been an extremely tedious process getting this plane right-side up, and back on shore," said R.L. Dunn, who used his crane to get the plane ashore.

Dunn lives right off the lake, and is also friends with the pilots who flipped the pontoon plane, Frank Isbell and Doug Smith. Dunn rushed outside after they crashed.

"Luckily, they walked away from it…could have been worse," said Dunn.

Isbell is a veteran pilot of 37 years, but says mistakes can still happen. Isbell was trying to avoid a boat, and forgot to take up the landing gear. When the $100,000 plane hit the water, it overturned head-first.

Evening Paddle

Paddle and float during the evening hours at the Dutch Gap Conservation Area. Slip quietly through the waters to observe wildlife and to explore the varied environs of the Tidal Lagoon. Look for bald eagles and osprey and listen for owls. Minimum age is 10. An adult must accompany children 10 -14 years of age. Paddling time is approximately 3 hours.

Saturday, June 8, 4:30–8:30 p.m.

Henricus Park Visitors Center

Fee: $18

Old Rag Mountain Hike

See the result of mountain building and erosion during this hike to the summit of Old Rag Mountain in Shenandoah National Park. This circuit hike follows the rocky ridgeline that leads to the summit. Participants should be prepared to scramble over and through large granite boulders. This hike will be about 8 miles with 2510 feet of elevation gain.