By Steve Cook : There’s an old joke where the girl tells the guy that he must have picked a great spot for a picnic. Proudly, he asks, “How do you know?” She replies, “Because 10,000 ants can’t be wrong.” That’s somewhat been my attitude towards picnics. Why eat with the bugs when you have a perfectly fine indoor dining room? However, I’m trying to become more outdoorsy and in doing so, I’ve discovered the joys of sitting on a blanket, sipping on my favorite beverage, and eating tuna fish sandwiches.  Whatever your tastes may be, we have some cool, local spots to enjoy a picnic. Here are...

By Kaitlyn Bruce :  NASCAR has always been centered around family, with strong connections among its participants—fathers sharing the sport's traditions with their sons and brothers. Names like Allison, Earnhardt, Elliott, Petty, Wallace, and Waltrip highlight these familial ties in racing. The connection extends even beyond the track; in the stands, you can see parents passing their passion for the sport to their children as the entire family cheers for their favorite drivers. I remember spending Sunday afternoons either watching races with my dad or listening to them on the radio while we...

By Kim Amboy : There is something nostalgic and grounding about going on an old-fashioned picnic. Armed with just a blanket, good food, and the company of loved ones, an ordinary afternoon can be transformed into a memorable experience. Preparing special treats makes a meal part of the adventure. But picnicking isn’t just about food—it’s about activities, too! Imagine youngsters enjoying a treasure hunt or watching a colorful kite dancing high overhead, friends savoring a casual catch-up while strolling nature-studded trails, or even sweethearts finding romance on a sunset picnic. In short,...

By Kim Amboy : There’s something delightful about patio dining, where good food meets fresh air and natural light. Dining outdoors offers a break from the hustle and bustle, fostering a relaxed atmosphere where conversation flows freely, and life seems to slow down. Why not take some time to put down your devices, pause, enjoy the moment, and connect with friends and loved ones by savoring an outdoor meal on the patio of one of our great local eateries? Here are a few ideas for your next outing. El Jinete Mexican Grill 1795 S Creek One, Powhatan, VA eljinetemexrest.com  Now that the weather...

By Steve Cook : A visit to a bustling local farmers’ market offers a fantastic multi-sensory experience. It’s a virtual feast for the eyes, the ears, the nose, and most vividly, the taste. From the moment you arrive, you are bombarded with a dazzling array of colorful fruits and vegetables, accompanied by the sounds of, perhaps, local buskers, children’s laughter, and vendors hawking their fresh, flavorful wares. Approach each vendor’s stand, and delight in the aroma of fresh produce, baked goods, and other delectables, which waft seductively through the market. And just wait until your...

By Kim Amboy : June is National Soul Food Month, a time to honor the cultural and culinary contributions of African American communities, particularly through the rich and delicious tradition of soul food. Soul food refers to a variety of hearty dishes that originated in the Southern U.S., rooted in African, Indigenous, and European influences. Staples include fried chicken, collard greens, cornbread, black-eyed peas, sweet potatoes, and more. These recipes often reflect both resilience and creativity, born out of limited resources during slavery and passed down through generations. More...

By Kim Amboy : There’s something delightful about patio dining, where good food meets fresh air and natural light. Dining outdoors offers a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday living, fostering a relaxed atmosphere where conversation flows freely, and life seems to slow down. Why not take some time to put down your devices, pause, enjoy the moment, and connect with friends and loved ones by savoring an outdoor meal on the patio of one of our great local eateries? Here are a few ideas for your next outing. The Boathouse at Sunday Park 4602 Millridge Parkway, Midlothian, VA Enjoying...