Friends, I wish I could offer you a happier welcome, but my heart is so heavy with the news from the Fairfax community yesterday. Former Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax died by suicide, according to authorities. Officials say the death followed an alleged incident in which his wife, Cerina Fairfax, was killed.
Their teenage children were at home during the incident. We’ve got more information on the heartbreaking news below.
If you’re in a domestic situation that makes you feel unsafe, there are resources available to help. You can text START to 88788 or call 1-800-799-7233. The National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is also available by texting or calling 988.
And you know what? I’m no therapist, but I’m a good listener. You can message me at amie@couriernewsroom.com if you need someone who’s so glad you’re still here to talk to.
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The Hockman House is an Italianate Victorian-style house. (Roanoke Valley Garden Club)
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By Aila Boyd
Here’s what you need to know: Spring has arrived in Virginia, and with it, the Garden Club of Virginia’s Historic Garden Week. This year’s event coincides with the nation’s 250th anniversary. As a result, properties with connections to those who have influenced American history are being highlighted.
Our top picks:
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On Saturday, Apr. 18, clubs in Ashland, Gloucester–Mathews, Old Town Alexandria, Orange, Portsmouth, and Staunton will be participating. The Portsmouth event is a standout one, given that it’s centered along the Elizabeth River. Six riverbank properties in the Glensheallah, Green Acres, and Sterling Point neighborhoods will be featured.
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Don’t miss the Historic Berkeley, Shirley, and Westover tour. It’s been part of Historic Garden Week since the very beginning in 1929. The sites along the banks of the James River have a rich history, having been settled as tobacco plantations in the early 17th century.
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On Friday, Apr. 24, clubs in Kent-Valentine House, Little Oak Spring, Middle Peninsula–King and Queen County, and the Virginia Executive Mansion will be participating. Don’t miss the Kent-Valentine House in Richmond, which will be open to the public for free on the day of the event.
Ready to explore? We’ve got the details for you at the link below.
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Amie Knowles enjoys a heaping helping of mixed vegetables and fried rice at Bentto in Danville. (Amie Knowles/Dogwood)
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By Amie Knowles
The local food trend continues! Maybe it’s telling me this section should be rebranded to “Foodie Friday?”
This week, we were looking for an option in downtown Danville when my husband, Kody, suggested Bentto. The Japanese restaurant is right across the street from the Danville Community College campus—and I hadn’t been since my time as a student at DCC.
Boy, has it ever changed since the early 2010s. The menu is amazing, featuring yummy Japanese cuisine, select Korean favorites, and a variety of soups and salads. The portion-to-price ratio was also impressive—I got everything on my piled-high plate for $8.49, which was enough rice and mixed vegetables for two separate meals.
Another highlight was the cooking window. Colton, our 8-year-old, enjoyed watching the chefs grill his shrimp and fry the rice. The next time you’re in the Southside, Bentto is definitely worth a stop.
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Earlier this week, we asked about feeling financially strained by everyday expenses. You know, things like food, gas, utilities—that kind of thing.
For Dogwood reader Jeffrey B., he said he often feels the strain.
It’s never too late to get in on the conversation. My inbox is open to you at amie@couriernewsroom.com.
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By Michael O’Connor
Fairfax County Police Chief Kevin Davis on Thursday morning announced that Justin Fairfax—who served as Virginia’s lieutenant governor from 2018 to 2022—shot and killed his wife, Cerina Fairfax, before taking his own life at their home in Annandale around midnight.
Their teenage children were in the house at the time. Davis said the couple was going through a divorce. Fairfax was seen as a rising political star before sexual assault allegations emerged in 2019.
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A student-organized program will grant UVA students one free emergency contraception pill until April 28th. As talks of protecting reproductive rights continue in Virginia, students are leading by example. (Watch here)
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120 Virginia households are in danger under President Trump’s proposed new housing rule. Hundreds of Virginia families would face eviction or separation if the law protecting mixed immigration status households is reversed. (Read more)
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As oil prices surge amid political conflict and supply fears, drivers in Virginia are paying the price—revealing what many see as an unsettling dependence on oil. Meanwhile, clean energy advocates say there are opportunities in the industry to diversify our energy options. (See post)
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Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Amie Knowles. Amie is a lifelong Virginia resident and mom to a fantastic 8-year-old who loves Pokémon. This edition includes stories from Aila Boyd, Michael O’Connor, and the media aggregate team. It was edited by Paula Solis.
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