Does it come as a surprise? I’ve never ever minded being on stage, talking in front of groups, or living life with a little extra flair. That’s thanks to growing up in the quirky, fun world of theatre.

So when I discovered that America’s first dinner theatre was right here in the commonwealth (and still in operation), I couldn’t wait to spread the word with y’all.

Keep scrolling to learn more about this unique outing—and how the history of the building changed over time. I’m so glad you’re here to enjoy it.

By Jessica F. Simmons

In doctors’ offices, living rooms, and on sidewalks outside of polling places across Virginia, people have argued over what reproductive freedoms should look like—whether that means access to birth control, abortion, miscarriage management, IVF, or even basic prenatal and postpartum care. What they may not realize is that a quiet legal fight over paperwork and public notice requirements could decide whether they ever get to vote on that question this fall.

House Joint Resolution 1 (HJR1) is the proposal at the center of that fight. The proposed amendment to the Virginia Constitution would create a “fundamental right to reproductive freedom” and protect a wide range of health care decisions, including contraception, abortion care, miscarriage management, fertility care, and pregnancy-related care.

Earlier this month, a lawsuit filed in Bedford County by a local supervisor, backed by the conservative legal group Liberty Counsel, alleged that state lawmakers skipped required notice steps when they advanced HJR1. The conservative plaintiffs are asking a judge to keep the amendment off the 2026 ballot entirely, and require that lawmakers restart the process. In other words, before Virginians can vote on this amendment, a court must decide whether it followed the appropriate steps to be put on the ballot at all.

But a recent change to the system by Gov. Abigail Spanberger could negate the lawsuit entirely.

By Amie Knowles

I had a day off last Friday—and every plan I had for the day fell through at the beginning of the week. Admittedly, I felt a little glum about that, but figured a few hours to Netflix & chill would probably do me good. But then, a thought came to mind: Colton, age 8, had never been to Fairy Stone State Park in Patrick County—and I knew he’d thoroughly enjoy it there.

We loaded up early, hunted for Pokémon cards on the way, and stopped at a local pizzeria for lunch. Then, we ventured into the park where Colton received an activity booklet to complete to become a junior ranger. We attended an informative program about “fairy stones” (staurolite, often shaped similarly to a cross) and why the crystalline structures form in that area of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Then, we got to look for them ourselves. 

Colton and I both love rocks, so we were excited to find some fairy stones—along with some other things we didn’t expect to see, like garnet and a blue-gray shiny stone I’m calling a sapphire until someone tells me different. After that, we went to the lake, played on the playground, and hiked one of the trails. To wrap up the adventure, Colton officially completed his junior ranger requirements and received a certificate and badge. The best part? We can’t wait to go back—and encourage you to check out Fairy Stone State Park, too.

By Aila Boyd

Seven-time NBA All-Star Alonzo Mourning was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2014. Born in 1970 in Chesapeake, he played for Georgetown before going on to become the second overall pick in the 1992 draft. 

He started with the Charlotte Hornets but retired from the Miami Heat following the 2007-08 season. During his time with the Miami Heat, he briefly had to step away from the game due to being diagnosed with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, a disease that impacted his kidneys. 

Upon his return, he contributed to the team’s winning of the 2006 NBA Championship. Having played 838 games, his average points per game came to 17.1. He’s now Vice President of Player Programs for the Miami Heat.

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. This edition includes stories from Aila Boyd and Jessica F. Simmons. It was edited by Paula Solis.

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