Hey, y’all. It’s Amie.

There are few things more genuinely entertaining than watching a cooking class where children are the chefs. I had that unique pleasure on Tuesday, when my seven-year-old learned to make turkey tacos with his homeschool co-op group. 

Thankfully, I had a coffee to sip on—otherwise, I think I might’ve passed out at the sight of him using a cheese grater and wielding a knife. See, I’m not a true “helicopter parent,” but I do know my child well enough to bat an eye when sharp objects are in play. Surprisingly, he emerged with all of his fingers and toes—as did the kids around him! I’m thankful it was a successful adventure, and I’m so glad you’re here. 

Here’s what you need to know: From the 17th century through the mid-19th century, enslaved African Americans in the United States resisted bondage by seeking freedom through self-emancipation. These freedom seekers, along with their allies, formed the Underground Railroad—a network that played a crucial role in dismantling slavery and inspiring the civil rights movement.

Our top picks:

• The Great Dismal Swamp served as both a refuge and a route to freedom for thousands of enslaved individuals since the 17th century. Some sought temporary shelter to continue their journey to freedom in cities like Norfolk or Portsmouth, while others established maroon communities deep within the swamp. These communities allowed freedom seekers to sustain themselves off the land and evade recapture.

• The home of James A. Fields represents his remarkable journey from enslavement to freedom. Born into slavery in 1844, Fields escaped and joined the Union army. He later graduated from Hampton University and Howard University Law School, becoming a teacher, lawyer, and the first Black judicial officer in Warwick County.
• Moncure Conway, a Southern abolitionist, used his family home to lead over 30 enslaved individuals to freedom. The house’s owners, members of the Stafford County Historical Society, continue to promote public awareness of Conway’s humanitarian efforts.

Want to learn more? Discover key sites in Virginia connected to the Underground Railroad and the courageous stories of freedom seekers and their allies.

Question of the Week: I realize I should’ve asked this weeks ago, but considering it’s still February, I think it’s okay. Are you a fan of Punxsutawney Phil’s prediction of an extended winter—and what do you plan to do with the extra cold snaps? Let me know at amie@couriernewsroom.com. 

Election boards tried to silence 4.5 million Virginians in 2024. 

Del. Cia Price is making sure they never get the chance again.

• Would you like to advocate for reproductive rights, but aren’t quite sure where to start? We’ve got Virginia resources ready for you—and many are actively looking for volunteers (READ MORE HERE).

• The Virginia House of Delegates recently formed an emergency committee to take stock of the fallout from Elon Musk’s attacks on federal workers. Dogwood correspondent Carly Seward Maher breaks down what you need to know (WATCH HERE).

• The Trump Administration’s attempt to cut federal funding for medical research puts millions at risk of losing critical health services—and Virginia’s medical sector could take a major hit (WATCH HERE).

This week, we’re featuring a basketball 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.

Let’s hear it for Patrick & Henry Community College’s new women’s basketball interim head coach! Melvin Patterson brings more than 10 years of coaching experience to the team, previously calling the shots at Virginia’s own Bassett High School, Franklin County High School, and Carlisle School.

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