Do you have your red, white, and blue ready to go this weekend? I have a confession to make: In our household, we still haven’t decided what we’re doing or where we’re going. If you have any last-minute ideas, feel free to share them with me at amie@couriernewsroom.com.

Regardless, we’ll be celebrating somewhere—even if that somewhere’s on our own couch. But wait, Amie, it’s not July 4 yet. Why are you talking about it on July 2? That’s because our offices are closed tomorrow to kick off the holiday festivities. And that means your next regularly scheduled Dogwood newsletter will arrive at noon on Monday, July 6.

Whatever you choose to do, wherever you choose to go, and however you choose to celebrate, I hope you enjoy America’s 250th because I’m so glad you’re here. 

Parts of Virginia could reach triple digits this week and through the weekend. If you or someone you know is out in the elements, there are cooling centers set up across the commonwealth. 

To find more cooling centers near you, use the interactive map on the Virginia Department of Health website linked below.

By Amie Knowles

We were back at Home Depot bright and early one Saturday morning last month. It was right before the World Cup kicked off, and the chain, known to attract both do-it-yourself (DIY) consumers and professional contractors, offered a free craft for kids. 

It’s a monthly offering, and Lowe’s has a similar program. Basically, parents or caregivers sign their kids up for the workshop, and the kids receive a free build-it-yourself project. There are usually only a few simple steps involved—nailing boards together, using a screwdriver, painting, etc.—and that’s perfect for my 8-year-old. 

If you’re interested in taking your kids or grandkids to a free crafting event, I’m including a signup link below. Next up is a wooden go-kart ready to roll on July 4. 

By Amie Knowles

Did you know? Virginia is called the “Mother of Presidents.” That’s because eight US presidents were born right here in the commonwealth.

Many—but not all—of our forefathers’ homes or birthplaces are open to the public. Some are privately owned sites with tours available by appointment. Others, like Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello and George Washington’s Mount Vernon, provide guided tours of the home, grounds, or both with a ticketed entry. And still others, like Woodrow Wilson’s birthplace, serve as a presidential library and museum. 

As we embark on our nation’s 250th birthday this weekend, we’re taking a look back at the presidents from right here at home. 

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. It was edited by Crystal Niforos.

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