Hey, y’all. It’s Amie.

Oh my goodness, we finally made it. In a couple of hours, the weekend officially starts—and I can’t wait. I don’t know how it’s been for y’all, but this week for me felt like it lasted about a year. 

Do you know what weeks like that need? Special little treats. And I’ve saved one for y’all in today’s lead story by Britteny Dee. Yep, one last run on Virginia’s spooky spots (since a huge number of our readers really seem to enjoy those to a level I didn’t exactly anticipate) before I switch to blissful holiday coverage.

Speaking of which, Christmas music is already on the radio. And no, it is not too early to put up the tree. Enjoy your weekend and remember, I’m so glad you’re here. 

The exterior of the Wren Building on the College of William & Mary campus at night (Drew B Darby/CC BY-SA 3.0)

By Britteny Dee

Here’s what you need to know: With buildings dating back to the 1800s when Williamsburg was the capital of Virginia, charming cobblestone streets, and spirited historical reenactments, walking through Williamsburg—particularly the historic area—feels like taking a step back in time. 

Our top haunts:

• Several tragedies occurred in the Peyton Randolph House back in its heyday, and many believe the victims of those unfortunate events haunt the historic home-turned-museum. One famous visitor, French military officer Marquis de Lafayette, claimed he felt a ghost’s hand touch his shoulder and heard mysterious voices during his stay at the home in 1824.

• The Fort Magruder Hotel & Conference Center was built on the site of the Battle of Williamsburg, which is why many believe it to be haunted. The hotel is closed now, but former staffers have reported strange occurrences, such as objects being moved mysteriously, glass shattering when no one else is around, and figures walking through windows.

• The College of William & Mary’s Wren Building is the oldest still-standing university building in the country. Since being constructed between 1695 and 1700, the building has been ravaged by three fires, but was restored after each one. Students, professors, and visitors have reported mysterious occurrences within the building, ranging from sightings of ghost soldiers late at night to sounds of disembodied footsteps.

Want more haunted history? We’ve got more spooky stories at the link below.

So, what was the number one reason you voted this year?

According to Virginians who answered this question, there were a variety of reasons. Greg H. (I know him!) mentioned the fight against fascism, and Alli C. said her vote went toward saving “our country, our democracy, and basic human rights.” 

If y’all would like to talk more, my inbox is always open to you at amie@couriernewsroom.com.

Keeping this country free comes down to simple everyday acts of community engagement, volunteerism, and organizing. (Joel Muniz/Unsplash)

By Ryan Pitkin

Ever wonder what’s keeping this whole thing—you know, America—from just totally falling apart? It’s not the folks yelling on TV or trolling online: It’s the quiet work happening in local communities like yours.

The real pillars of democracy aren’t marble buildings or political parties—they’re people. And keeping this country free comes down to simple everyday acts of community engagement, volunteerism, and organizing.

Democracy isn’t just about elections, power, or who’s in charge. It’s all the little ways people work together to make America feel like home.

Yes, running for local office or volunteering at the polls are great ways to get involved, but this sort of work doesn’t always involve the ballot box. 

Other ways you can do your part include:

• Donating food or supplies to local pantries to support families affected by the federal government shutdown.
• Backing community projects at public parks and libraries that make shared spaces stronger.
• Attending school board or city council meetings to keep local decision-making transparent.
• Having honest conversations with people you might not agree with—and choosing respect over outrage.

These small actions may not make headlines, but together they keep the system steady.

Don’t leave it up to the podcasters and talking heads on the news to tell you the state of your own democracy. Look around your community—because that’s where the real work of keeping America together happens. 

• This year’s Obamacare open enrollment period, which started Nov. 1 in most states, is full of uncertainty and confusion for the more than 24 million people who buy health insurance through the federal and state Affordable Care Act marketplaces. (Read more)

• Parents and cybersecurity experts want Virginia lawmakers to hold companies like Meta accountable when their platforms fail to keep their pledges to keep kids safe. (Read more)

• Lulu Hernadez, 16, shares why Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s recent changes to military policy on sexual harassment have made her change her mind about joining the Navy. (Watch here)

You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website.

Our mailing address is:

Dogwood / COURIER Newsroom
611 Pennsylvania Ave. SE
Washington, DC 20003-4303

Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or  from this list.