Wholesome News Hour: Children’s literature, relief for hurricane victims, and new activities for the kiddos

Good news is still news! Dogwood’s wholesome news hour is a quick refresh from the day’s hard news, celebrating some of the positive things happening throughout Virginia. Today, we’re highlighting three pieces of good news directly from the commonwealth.

A 12-year-old Virginia boy becomes a published author

While most kids take their summer vacations to relax and spend time with friends, 12-year-old Eli Mackey spent his summer writing a children’s book. 

Mackey has a specific interest in turtles. He spends much of his time volunteering at the Virginia Living Museum near his home in Newport News. This interest is what drove him to become a published author, so that he could teach other kids about his passion.

Mackey said, “What got me interested in turtles was my first turtle. His name was Bowser, he’s a red-eared slider. They’re interesting when they bask, and when you watch them when they’re eating, it’s pretty fun.”

Mackey’s book is titled Turtle Tales: Discovering the Watery World of Terrapins, and aims to inform children five to 12 years of age about native turtle species in the United States.

The youngster’s book is for sale on Amazon, but Mackey hopes to have his writing in libraries soon. 

Virginia residents donate RVs and campers to hurricane victims

Virginia is helping its sister state, North Carolina, after Hurricane Helene’s devastation.

Residents in Fairfield donated, cleaned, and furnished RVs and campers for those who lost their homes during the hurricane.

Many in Lake Lure, North Carolina, had to live in tents after the devastation.With the incoming winter months, Fairfield chose to take action before the coldest of the season set in.

So far, three campers made their way to families in Lake Lure, and many more are being prepped for temporary housing for those who lost everything. 

The Metro Richmond Zoo opens a new attraction for the kiddos

Richmond’s Metro Zoo opened the Critter Climb Playland for their youngest visitors. 

This new playland is a major upgrade from their previous playground, as they’ve improved and added nine play elements. Kids can enjoy new slides, monkey bars, tunnels, swings, and more.

`The playground is also covered, so the fun continues through rain and shine.