Hey, y’all. It’s Amie.

Spoiler alert, there’s a mom below asking Grace’s advice on helping people better understand her neurodivergent son. From one mom to another, and I mean this with compassion: They’re not your people, love. Real friendships are often few and far between (for everyone, regardless of neurodivergence). But for those of us who’re a little more neurospicy, it’s especially important to find people we can be our whole selves around—without explanation.

The first time I met one of my very best friends in person, we went out for lunch at a sandwich shop in Charlottesville. My husband, son, and I were coming back from vacation and the map took us by, so it worked out really well. While there, she and I discussed everything from aluminum foil to sword fighting—not your typical smalltalk.

On the drive home, my husband asked how we possibly covered so many things in one meal. It’s because, for once, we didn’t have to mask—or explain—our ADHD. Not that I think educating others about neurodivergence is wrong or bad or negative. It isn’t. I’m just saying that your people are out there—and we’ve all got to be able to be our whole selves to truly find them. I’m so glad you’re here. 

Dear Grace,

My son is autistic and in middle school. He is my whole life and perfect the way he is. He struggled with bullying a little bit last year, but it’s gotten worse since the whole “Tylenol causes autism” thing. Not only are kids at school making fun of him, but adults are being rude to him, too.

First of all, there is no single cause of autism. It’s not caused by vaccines or Tylenol or whatever. Second of all, why is everyone acting like autism is so terrible? My son is smart, kind, loving, and he can memorize whole movie scripts. I wouldn’t want to change him…ever! 

When I hear adults and kids saying things that aren’t true and that are meant to make autistic people feel bad, I go into Mama Bear mode and get mad and protective. But I don’t want to yell at people or make it worse. What should I do? How can I convince people that my son’s autism isn’t bad, it’s a wonderful part of who he is? What should I say when people repeat false things about autism?

– Angry Mama in Ardmore

Dear Angry Mama,

I get why you’re angry. As parents, we want to protect our children from being bullied or from people who think they need to be “cured.” You clearly love your son deeply, just as he is! I’m sorry that other people around him are having trouble seeing him the way that you do.

While I understand why you would want to yell at someone for saying something cruel to or about your son, you’re right that it might make things worse. Here are some of my ideas about what you could do… 

I asked this question a few months ago, but that was before our Question of the Week section took off in a massively impressive—and honestly, very humbling—way. Huge thank you to those who’re writing in with their opinions!

So, I’m trying again. Some of the things we regularly cover include economics (check out Michael O’Connor’s newsletter Virginia Capital), education, lifestyle, healthcare, and state legislation. And, as your local newsroom, we’re dedicated to covering what’s most important to you.

Write to me at amie@couriernewsroom.com with your coverage ideas—and any leads you might have for our next great story. 

Meatball Madness

Now until Mar. 11, various locations

This isn’t an event, per se, but meatballs are involved so we had to include it: Sheetz will participate in “Meatball Madness” with 99-cent half-size meatball subs for National Meatball Day. The deal starts Monday, Mar. 9 (National Meatball Day) and runs until Wednesday, Mar 11. SubWay is also joining the fun, offering a free footlong upgrade on 6-inch meatball sub purchases today only.

St. Patrick’s 90’s Ladies Night

Thursday, Mar. 12 at 5 p.m. in Gainesville

Are themed social gatherings your idea of fun? And is 1990 an era you’d like to revisit? If so, the St. Patrick’s 90’s Ladies Night at The Winery at Sunshine Ridge Farm is your golden (or should we say green) opportunity. The event features DJ entertainment, food trucks, wine, beer, cider, and more. 

Dancing with the Stars: Live

Friday, Mar. 13 at 7:30 p.m. in Richmond

Reality TV lovers and those who enjoy professional dancing need to hurry up and get their tickets—Dancing with the Stars: Live is coming to town. The 2026 tour of the show lands in Richmond this weekend at the Altria Theater. 

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