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Impossible Odds

Kidnapped by Somali pirates and rescued by Navy SEALs, Jessica Buchanan prevailed.

by Dawn Klavon

A Backward Glance for the Richmond SPCA

As the Richmond SPCA prepares to celebrate its 120th anniversary with a gala event on June 9, we invited Robin Robertson Starr, its chief executive officer, to limn for us how the organization began, and to offer her thoughts about what lies ahead.

by Robin Robertson Starr

On The Edge

Veteran photographer William Allard seems as fearless as the individuals in his iconic pictures.

by sarah sargent

A Garden ‘Reenactor’

Guy Schum has a passion for antique English tools.

by erin parkhurst & Robb Scharetg

Outré, yet Uncontrived

Beatrix Ost was born in Germany at the start of World War II. But it was art, not conflict, that shaped the life of this practicing Tibetan Buddhist who is best known for her Edwardian outfits, dramatic personal style and joie de vivre.

by sarah sargent

“Hello, Mr. Jefferson”

Bill Barker has played the sagacious statesman in Colonial Williamsburg for more than 20 years.

by erin parkhurst

Script Change

Movie director Tom Shadyac was living large in Southern California until he made a personal transformation that extends to his latest film, the documentary “I Am.”

by Broocks Willich

Prolific Punkster

Steve Keene is a conceptual folk artist who enjoys taking jabs at the preciousness surrounding fine art

by sarah sargent

Pork Palace

Here’s the lowdown on Pierce’s Pitt Bar-B-Que, which serves upwards of 6,000 pounds of its specialty Boston butt on a busy day.

by Libby McNamee

Back Story: Neely Barnwell Dykshorn, All About Style

We talked to this former editor at Elle Decor and recently named contributing editor for Architectural Digest about her love of the decorative arts.

by erin parkhurst

Home Field Advantage

The Richmond Kickers have won national soccer titles, but the team’s real goals remain local, says Head Coach Leigh Cowlishaw.

by Daryl Grove

Science of a Saddle

Ruckersville craftsman Tad Coffin makes some of the most desirable saddles in America, thanks to his passion for horses and technology.

by aynsley fisher miller

Stage Presence

Todd Ristau—actor, director, playwright and teacher—is a catalyst for good theater in Roanoke.

by Richard Ernsberger Jr.

A Nite With Daddy G

After 60 years in the forefront of rhythm and blues, soul, gospel and rock, tenor saxophone legend and Norfolk native Gene Barge keeps the music movin’ and groovin’.

by Don Harrison

‘This is Master X’

Jesse Lee Boland was a burly, alluring con man who, in the 1930s and 1940s, sold spiritual advice to thousands of people. His act was absurd, but popular. A retrospective on on a conjurer who would mess up your mind.

by Dougald Blue

Primitive Landscapes

For painter John Borden Evans, the act of painting is not just a means to an end, but the end itself.

by sarah sargent

Sonic Explorer

Composer Judith Shatin is winning acclaim with her inventive music.

by Richard Ernsberger Jr.

Tidewater Classic

Remembering architect Lewis A. Rightmier

by wright ann

‘Singing Ain’t Enough’

Maggie Ingram is one the best gospel singers in America—and one of Virginia’s best-kept secrets. An ordained minister with a commanding stage (and church) presence, she cares as much about the message as the music. It’s time to testify.

by Don Harrison

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Events

July 8, 2025

Yoga on the Magnolia Terrace

Carlyle House Historic Park

July 8, 2025

Waitress at Virginia Repertory Theatre

Virginia Repertory Theatre

July 9, 2025

June – July @ Art Works!

Art Works

The U.S. DOE Labeled These Virginia Schools Outstanding

Eight Virginia schools received the National Blue Ribbon 2024 award for their high performances. The Exemplary High Performing Schools are Spring Hill Elementary in McLean, Green Run Collegiate in Virginia Beach, Bethel Manor Elementary in Hampton, and St. Andrew the Apostle School in Clifton. The Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools are Central Academy Middle […]

by Gabriela de Camargo Gonçalves

UVA Claims Top Spots Among Public Universities

The University of Virginia has climbed to No. 4 among public universities in U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best Colleges rankings, advancing one position from last year. The university maintained its No. 24 overall ranking, tying with Emory and Georgetown universities. UVA’s commitment to accessibility and student success stands out in several key metrics. […]

by Madeline Mayhood

Can’t-Miss Spots in Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park offers breathtaking views, scenic trails, and diverse wildlife—the perfect prescription for nature lovers. Some spots to add to your itinerary include: This article originally appeared in the Best of Virginia 2025 issue.

by Stacy Watkins

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Waitress at Virginia Repertory Theatre

June – July @ Art Works!

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The U.S. DOE Labeled These Virginia Schools Outstanding

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Can’t-Miss Spots in Shenandoah National Park

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Events

Yoga on the Magnolia Terrace

Waitress at Virginia Repertory Theatre

June – July @ Art Works!

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The U.S. DOE Labeled These Virginia Schools Outstanding

UVA Claims Top Spots Among Public Universities

Can’t-Miss Spots in Shenandoah National Park

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