Hey, y’all. It’s Amie.

The joy of a first snow is absolutely unmatched! As soon as the first flake falls, you’ll find us sticking our tongues out to catch it. It was no different on Sunday, when the snowstorm of the century (okay, a dusting) hit while we were having lunch. Our son and nephew ran to the window, jumping up and down with glee. 

The remainder of the day was full of playtime. We built a snowman, had an epic snowball fight, and came inside to enjoy some coffee and hot cocoa. We also enjoyed our traditional first-snow-of-the-season meal—pot roast and green bean casserole—now that Colton no longer has alpha gal (a red meat allergy caused by a tick bite). The following morning, we were outside again, where we enjoyed sledding. 

Do you have snow pictures to share? We started a thread on Facebook where you’re welcome to post your favorites. Personally, I’m thrilled that we got a little dusting, and I’m hoping for a little more before the season ends. I’m so glad you’re here to enjoy it, too. 

Here’s what you need to know: Virginia is home to a rich architectural history, with numerous colonial-era buildings that offer a glimpse into the past. From the grand estates of the 17th century to the modest plantation houses that survived the centuries, these historic structures tell the story of early American life.

Our top picks:

• Broad Bay Manor, one of the oldest continuously inhabited homes in America, traces its origins to 1640 when English trader Thomas Allen built its central section in a one-room loft style. Over the centuries, it has seen significant expansions, including a Georgian addition by Lemuel Cornick I around 1770 and extensive renovations by John B. Dey in 1928, which modernized the home with plumbing and central heating.

• Built in 1665 for Arthur Allen and his family, Bacon’s Castle is the oldest brick dwelling in North America. Originally called Allen’s Brick House, it earned its current name in 1676 when followers of Nathaniel Bacon occupied the home during Bacon’s Rebellion. The house is a rare example of High Jacobean architecture and features a restored 17th-century English formal garden.

• The Historic Jamestowne Church Tower is the sole above-ground remnant of Virginia’s first capital, Jamestown. Built around 1680, the tower has withstood fires, centuries of neglect, and the Civil War. Its original church served the James City Parish congregation until about 1750 when they relocated, leaving the site to succumb to farmland and woods. 

Intrigued by history? We’ve uncovered 10 of Virginia’s oldest structures, and you can read all about them at our link below. 

Question of the Week: Where’s the coolest “old” place you’ve ever visited? It can be in Virginia (or not). For me, it’s the Old Sheldon Church Ruins in Yemassee, South Carolina—a towering Lowcountry structure that burned for the second time in 1865. Let me know your favorite “antique” spot at amie@couriernewsroom.com.

Did you catch part one of things we’re keeping an eye on this year in the Wednesday newsletter? Well, it only seemed right to link to part two today. 

In addition to the Virginia governor, lieutenant governor, and attorney general races and all 100 House of Delegates seats going up for election, these topics have our interest:

• Virginia’s 2025 General Assembly session, which kicked off this week

• A debate around state finances, including the possibility of taxing the wealthy more
• Constitutional amendments, including topics like reproductive freedom, voting rights, and same-sex marriage.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) for the latest updates.

• With lows recently hovering near single digits in some parts of the commonwealth, our hearts go out to the unhoused people living in our state. There are a multitude of services, like warming centers and overnight shelters, in Virginia; so please share this link with those in need of a warm place to stay (WATCH HERE).

• The United States spends more per person on healthcare than any other country. However, that doesn’t mean the quality of our care is the best in the world. This month, we’re diving into General Assembly coverage, with a big focus on healthcare in Virginia (WATCH HERE).

• Does your New Year’s resolution have to do with a new career? Learn to fully embrace your opportunity by creating a work-life balance from the start (WATCH HERE).

This week, we’re featuring a robotics highlight! If you’d like to see your team’s accomplishments broadcast on Dogwood’s platforms, send a note and photo to amie@couriernewsroom.com or reply to this message. Just be sure you have permission to share from all of the proper sources—players/guardians, photographers, and coaches/schools, to name a few.

Martinsville City Public Schools

Four teams from Martinsville City Public Schools put their mark on the division’s legacy at the VA+DC FIRST LEGO League Challenge state championship held at James Madison University last month. The event hosted over 100 teams from across Virginia and Washington, DC, and hinged on STEM-based learning that encouraged students to develop technical and collaborative skills.

The Patrick Henry Elementary’s Scuba Squad finished in third place in Division 1 for Robot Design. The Division 2 competitor, Absolute Zero from Martinsville Middle School, took home first place in Core Values.

“Our students continue to excel [at] robotics and engineering,” said Superintendent Dr. Zebedee Talley. “We are incredibly grateful for strong parental and community support and look forward to competing again at the next level. Go MCPS!”

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