Hey, y’all. It’s Amie.

Reporters generally have their “favorite” stories—the ones that stick with them through the years and bring a smile. One of mine happened right here at Dogwood a couple of years back. It was a local toy drive—which briefly turned into a toy heist—and ended up all being a harmless misunderstanding.

In the end, the gym received even more presents for the kids than they’d originally anticipated, all because of an honest mix-up. You can read that happy holiday story here. And if it inspires you to give toys to kids in need this year? We’ve got info on how to do just that in today’s lead story. I’m so glad you’re here.

Help ensure local children have something to unwrap this holiday season. (Krakenimages.com/Shuterstock)

By Aila Boyd

Here’s what you need to know: From long-standing Toys for Tots partnerships to first-time initiatives, organizations stretching from Northern to Southwest Virginia are collecting new, unwrapped gifts and toys for children of all ages.

Our top picks:

• The Fund for Alexandria’s Child’s Holiday Sharing Program will collect toy donations from Monday, Dec. 8, to Wednesday, Dec. 10, and then deliver them to families and foster children in need. The program works by having those interested in sponsoring a family purchase their specific wish list items.

• The Montgomery County Christmas Store is a volunteer-run community effort that seeks to help low-income families in Montgomery County during the holidays, which opens to families for shopping from Monday, Dec. 8, through Saturday, Dec. 13.
• Toy Lift Charities supports children through the 8th grade in Charlottesville and Albemarle, Buckingham, Fluvanna, and Nelson counties. Instead of using financial documentation to determine need, it relies on recommendations from schools so that children who might otherwise be overlooked still receive a toy.

Wanting to give? We’re highlighting 14 Virginia toy drives at our link below. 

Patrons shop in Radford in 1940. (John Vachon/Farm Security Administration—Office of War Information Photograph Collection, Library of Congress)

Have you ever heard of a “five and dime?” The type of retail location, known for selling an inexpensive variety of general items, originated in the late 1800s and gained popularity through the first half of the 20th century.

An assortment of well-known stores followed the model, with Woolworth’s leading the pack. One such retail chain, Roses, still exists in Virginia today (though you’ll be hard-pressed to find much for a nickel in 2025).

Here’s a look into a Roses store window in Radford in 1940, showcasing a selection of hot Christmas items. Shoppers viewed a selection of composition dolls for just a couple of dollars, various storybooks, and what every woman craved: A 10-cent hanky. 

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• Experience driving the production planning processes, including Inventory Analysis, Sales & Operations Planning process and digital visualization tools such as Power BI or others
• Previous experience working with ERP systems, such as SAP
• Demonstrates initiative, thrives in a team setting, and shows strong problem-solving skills
• Experience in consumer packaged goods is a plus
• CPIM and/or CSCP Certification a plus

Job description on Indeed: “As a Finished Goods and Capacity Planner, you’ll play a role in planning production, optimizing inventory, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure our finished goods are always available when needed. If you love thinking strategically and solving problems, apply today!”

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