The aging population and rising temperatures are creating a hidden crisis for older adults, who are more vulnerable to extreme heat. Older adults face higher risks due to less efficient cooling mechanisms, underlying health conditions, and medications that increase heat sensitivity. Regions like Arizona and the desert areas of California are seeing rapid growth in older populations, necessitating better infrastructure and services to protect them during heat waves. Northern regions, traditionally cooler, are also experiencing increased heat risks, with older homes lacking efficient cooling systems. Community-scale adaptations, such as early warning systems and energy-efficient air conditioning, are essential to mitigate these risks.

Elena Aracri, a Richmond-based artist, captures pet memories through her unique freehand embroidery business, Stitchmond. Using DMC thread and various fabrics, she creates custom pet portraits that stand out for their cartoony style and painted eyes. Aracri's journey into embroidery began in 2017, and her work has since gained recognition, including features at the Richmond SPCA's Fur Ball auction. She also offers DIY kits for those interested in trying embroidery themselves. Aracri aims to expand her work into gallery shows and continues to encourage investment in handcrafted art.

Agecroft Hall in Richmond has installed solar panels as part of its commitment to sustainability and self-sufficiency, reflecting the Tudor period's ethos. The 146k-watt solar system, installed by Performance Solar, makes the museum net zero for electricity. Agecroft Hall has been recognized with a Green Giant award by the Sierra Club’s Falls of the James Chapter for its environmental contributions. The museum encourages other venues to consider solar installations if feasible.

Chloe Kottwitz, the owner of Uptown Neon in Richmond, is reviving the art of neon signage, a craft she inherited from her mentor, Douglas Solyan. The shop, filled with over 1,000 neon pieces, caters to both commercial and private clients, with Kottwitz's work visible in local businesses. Despite the decline of neon in favor of LEDs, Kottwitz is passionate about expanding the use of neon beyond traditional advertising, aiming to incorporate it into home lighting and sculpture. The shop is experiencing growth, reflecting a renewed interest in this distinctive art form.

Sky Burkson, a Richmond-based miniaturist, creates intricate paper models inspired by video games and pop culture. His work, primarily made from cost-effective copy paper and Bristol illustration paper, often includes handmade figures and various forms of lighting. Burkson's journey into miniatures began with theater set design, and he has since gained recognition, including an exhibit at New York City's Small is Beautiful gallery. Despite challenges, such as balancing family life and standing out in a crowded field, Burkson remains passionate about his craft and aims to connect more locally.

Erny, a 5-year-old black Labrador-golden retriever mix, serves as Richmond's only arson detection dog, having worked on over 100 cases since 2020. Trained to detect ignitable liquids, Erny assists his handler, Brian Acors, in pinpointing accelerants at fire scenes, significantly improving evidence collection. Initially trained as a guide dog, Erny transitioned to arson detection through the State Farm Arson Dog Program. The Richmond Fire Department has a long history with accelerant dogs, and Erny continues this legacy, living a balanced life of service and normalcy. The program, supported by State Farm, is one of the few in the nation, highlighting the importance and effectiveness of canine units in fire investigations.

The James River Park System Invasive Plant Task Force, founded in 2015, is actively working to remove invasive plant species across the park's 600 acres. The task force, consisting mainly of volunteers, collaborates with JRPS invasive management staff to tackle the issue, focusing on areas like Pony Pasture and Buttermilk Trail. Despite challenges, such as steep hillsides and the continuous influx of invasive species from surrounding neighborhoods, the task force has made significant progress. Their efforts have raised public awareness about the environmental impact of invasive plants, encouraging locals to plant native species.

Starling International Childcare & Learning Complex in Richmond has been a leader in early childhood education since 1995, with staff fluent in over 23 languages to help non-English speaking children adapt. The organization, led by regional director and CEO Donna Goff, offers significant employee benefits, including paid holidays, reduced childcare fees, and educational opportunities. Starling's commitment to employee well-being and a supportive work environment contributes to its high-quality childcare services, earning it recognition such as the Literacy Fair of Virginia’s Vision Award.

Edgar Allan Poe, renowned for his dark literary works, also had a profound love for nature, reflected in the Enchanted Garden at The Poe Museum in Richmond. The garden, filled with plants and artifacts connected to Poe, serves as a tribute to his life and works. Despite initial resistance, the Poe Foundation successfully established the museum and garden, which continue to attract visitors and host events. The museum's curator, Chris Semtner, and various historical figures have contributed to preserving Poe's legacy.

The Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission, founded in 1918, has been recognized as a top workplace for two consecutive years due to its positive working environment and open communication culture. The commission, which oversees workers’ compensation claims, engages in various community activities and honors its employees through awards and appreciation events. Executive Director Evelyn McGill highlights the importance of diversity and teamwork within the organization, which was exemplified during the COVID-19 pandemic when employees volunteered to maintain operations.

The article discusses the high-stress nature of 911 dispatching, highlighting the emotional toll it takes on dispatchers like Diane Branch from Hanover County. It covers the introduction of Next Generation 911 (NG911), a new technology that allows callers to send texts, photos, and videos, potentially increasing the stress on dispatchers. The article also touches on the high turnover rates in the profession, with Hanover County experiencing a 25% turnover rate, which is consistent with the state average. The job's classification as clerical work in Virginia limits access to certain benefits for dispatchers, and a bill to offer enhanced retirement benefits was not passed. The article emphasizes the mental health challenges faced by dispatchers, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and compassion fatigue, and the support systems in place, such as counseling and peer support hotlines.

The article discusses the impact of pesticides and herbicides on the flavor of fruits, particularly strawberries. A study by Jinling Diao at China Agricultural University found that chemicals like boscalid and difenoconazole reduce the natural sugar content in strawberries, leading to less flavorful fruit. Historical and recent studies are cited, including a 2018 blind taste test of wines that favored organic over non-organic due to taste. The article highlights the trade-offs between using chemicals for higher yields and the benefits of organic farming. It features Thorpe’s Organic Family Farm and Frey Vineyards as examples of organic producers. The article suggests that soil health and the avoidance of synthetic chemicals can lead to more flavorful and robust crops, and it emphasizes the importance of organic farming for the future of agriculture.

The article discusses the history of perfumery, from ancient times to the present, highlighting the shift from natural to synthetic ingredients in the late 1800s. It outlines the health and environmental concerns associated with synthetic perfumes, such as the presence of harmful compounds and their contribution to pollution. The focus then shifts to modern natural perfumers like Mason Hainey of MIZU and Whitney Swales of Wit & West Perfumes, who prioritize natural ingredients and sustainable sourcing. Hainey and Swales share their passion for natural perfumery, the complexity of working with natural scents, and the importance of ethical sourcing. The article emphasizes the uniqueness of natural perfumes and their environmental benefits, comparing them to an art form that combines design and aromatherapy.

Agecroft Hall & Gardens is a museum in Richmond's Windsor Farms neighborhood that offers visitors a glimpse into Tudor England. The manor, originally from Lancashire, England, was transported to the United States in the 1920s to save it from destruction due to industrial development. Thomas C. Williams Jr., a Richmond native, acquired the estate and had it meticulously dismantled, shipped, and reassembled in Richmond. The museum now showcases the history and culture of the Tudor period, featuring gardens designed by Charles Gillette and a variety of historically themed areas. The executive director, Anne Kenny-Urban, highlights the unique journey of Agecroft and its significance as one of the few buildings to have been relocated across the Atlantic.

Ashland will participate in a free rideshare pilot program called Link, run by the Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC), starting this fall. The microtransit system aims to enhance public transportation in Central Virginia's rural and suburban areas, covering five zones including Chesterfield, Henrico, Powhatan, and New Kent counties. The program, funded by the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation with a $4 million grant, will run for three years with an estimated cost of $11 million. If successful, Link could become a permanent transportation option.

The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) houses a remarkable collection of nearly 400 pieces of Russian decorative arts, including 200 objects from the House of Fabergé, with the highlight being five imperial Fabergé eggs. These eggs, created by the Russian jewelry company led by Peter Carl Fabergé, were originally commissioned by Czar Alexander III in 1885 and became a tradition in the royal family. The VMFA's collection was bequeathed by Lillian Thomas Pratt, a collector fascinated by Russian art and history, who acquired the pieces with the help of dealers Alexander and Ray Schaffer. The museum's conservation department, led by Ainslie Harrison, meticulously maintains the eggs to ensure their preservation for future generations. The Fabergé eggs are not only historical artifacts but also represent the pinnacle of craftsmanship and design, making them a significant attraction at the VMFA.

The article discusses the history and restoration efforts of the purple straw wheat variety, once a staple in Southern U.S. cuisine. It was known for its pest resistance and was widely used for whiskey and pastries. However, it fell out of favor in the 1970s due to the rise of hybrid wheats. Food historian Dr. David Shields and Glenn Roberts of Anson Mills are working to revive this heritage grain. They sourced seeds from the U.S. National Plant Germplasm System and the Sustainable Seed Company, and have been cultivating it at Clemson University. Challenges such as modern diseases and climate requirements for vernalization are being addressed by scientists like Richard Boyles. Interest in purple straw is growing among distilleries and chefs, with limited flour availability from Barton Springs Mill. Efforts to reintroduce the grain to historical sites like Mount Vernon are underway, symbolizing a potential resurgence in its cultivation and use.

Independent Container Line, headquartered in Richmond since 1985, is a trans-Atlantic shipping company known for transporting essential cargo between European and U.S. ports. The company, employing 52 people in the Richmond area, emphasizes strong customer service, employee care, and community involvement. It has received numerous awards, including Regional Carrier of the Year and Richmond's Top Workplaces. The ICL Foundation supports local charities, enhancing the company's community impact. Lisa Morgan, senior director of human resources, highlights the company's collaborative culture and employee profit-sharing as key to its success.

Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate Base Camp, co-founded by John O’Reilly, celebrates its 14th anniversary, having grown significantly since its affiliation with Better Homes & Gardens in 2016. With two locations in the Greater Richmond Area and 63 agents, the company is committed to exceptional service in Central Virginia, guided by its core values of Passion, Authenticity, Inclusion, Growth, and Excellence. The company has received awards for community involvement and service, and places a strong emphasis on community service, employee recognition, and a supportive work environment.

Hybla Valley Airport, built in 1924 by Elvin Robertson, was a significant aviation hub in Alexandria, attracting tourists with air shows and sightseeing tours. Despite its early success and unique opportunities, such as being considered for a Zeppelin base, the airport faced competition and eventually declined due to suburban development. It was used by the U.S. Navy during WWII and later managed by the Ashburn family, who expanded its operations. The airport closed in 1956, but its legacy persists through local landmarks and street names.

Magnolia bogs in Alexandria, once thriving and documented by early 20th-century conservationists like Waldo Lee McAtee, are now rare and endangered due to human development and mismanagement. Rod Simmons, Alexandria’s Natural Resource Manager, has spent over 30 years studying and advocating for these unique ecosystems, which are biodiversity hotspots. Despite efforts by the National Park Service and significant investments, the bogs continue to struggle against threats like invasive plants, hydrologic disruptions, and pollution. These bogs are a critical part of Alexandria’s natural heritage and require ongoing preservation efforts.

In 2014, a potential Eastern Cougar sighting near Riverside Elementary School in Alexandria sparked interest and caution. Historically common in the area, Eastern Cougars were driven to extinction due to hunting and habitat loss. Experts like Rick Hopkins and Edward Clark discuss the impact of their absence on local ecosystems, particularly the rise in deer populations. While officially classified as extinct, some believe hidden colonies may still exist. Recent research indicates Western Cougars are moving eastward, though sightings in Alexandria are likely bobcats. The article explores the historical and current significance of cougars in the region.

On July 20, 1969, the world witnessed Neil Armstrong's historic Moon landing through live television broadcasts. The original Apollo 11 tapes, intended as backups, were lost due to neglect and budget constraints. NASA's extensive search efforts have been unsuccessful, and it is believed the tapes were erased and reused. Conspiracy theories and unofficial copies have surfaced, but none have been verified. Despite NASA's attempts to convert existing copies into high-definition images, the original raw footage remains missing.

F.H. Batacan's 'Smaller and Smaller Circles,' considered the first modern crime novel of the Philippines, has been adapted into a movie. The novel, set in Manila during the 1990s, follows two priests with forensic knowledge investigating the murders of two boys and uncovering a serial killer targeting young males. The book, which won several awards and is required reading in the Philippines, also critiques the political system and the Catholic Church's role in science. Batacan, a former intelligence agent and broadcast journalist, was inspired by her experiences to write the novel, which expanded from 155 to 353 pages due to its popularity. The film adaptation, directed by Raya Martin and starring Nonie Buencamino and Sid Lucero, encourages viewers to read the book first. Batacan is currently working on a new novel, 'The Weight of Sin,' featuring the same protagonists.