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Virginia General Assembly set to open 2024 session with Democrats in full control of the Capitol

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Virginia General Assembly set to open 2024 session with Democrats in full control of the Capitol


RICHMOND, Va. — A remade Virginia General Assembly will convene its 2024 session Wednesday with a Democratic majority newly in charge of both chambers after a consequential election cycle that followed two years of divided control at the Capitol.

Guns, gambling, abortion, public safety and other issues will be on the agenda as Democrats seek to hold their razor-thin majorities together over the course of the 60-day session. They will need to win Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s support for most of their priorities, though in a few areas they will be able to move without him.

“I think there are some things we’re going to be able to agree on,” incoming Democratic House Speaker Don Scott said of the governor, ticking off spots of typical bipartisan cooperation, like education, mental health and workforce development.

On other legislative items — like gun control and Youngkin’s push for a new sports stadium — it remains to be seen where or whether compromise can be found, Scott said in an interview.

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Scott, a trial lawyer who will make history as the first Black person to serve as speaker, will take his seat in an increasingly diverse Capitol.

Last year’s election cycle, when every legislative seat was on the ballot, was the first held under new maps drawn in the last redistricting process. The new maps coupled with the requirement that legislators live in their district contributed to a wave of retirements that included some of the Assembly’s most senior members. Others were ousted in an especially competitive primary season.

About a third of the Assembly’s membership will be newly elected to their respective chamber. The Capitol will see new historic firsts in representation and a new generation of leadership.

The Assembly will also convene with a record-high percentage of female legislators, according to data maintained by the Center for American Women and Politics at Rutgers. Forty-eight of the 140 members, or 34.3%, are women, according to the center, not accounting for the results of two Tuesday special legislative elections in which three female candidates were competing.

Wednesday’s session kick-off will effectively mark the halfway point of Youngkin’s term. The governor, who ultimately did not mount a presidential bid after heaps of speculation in 2023 that he might, is prohibited by Virginia law from seeking a second consecutive four years in office.

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In the two months since the GOP fell short of Youngkin’s stated electoral expectations — losing its House majority and failing to flip the Senate — the governor has begun to roll out his policy roadmap, including his proposed budget. Crafting the next two-year state spending plan will be one of the session’s biggest tasks, something lawmakers in recent years have failed to do on time.

The governor has called for lowering the income tax while raising the state’s sales tax, a proposal that’s been greeted by skepticism from members of both parties.

Incoming Senate Republican Leader Ryan McDougle said in an interview that many members of his caucus think lowering the income tax would help make Virginia more competitive with competitor states. But the mechanism for doing so and maintaining a balanced budget will be an ongoing discussion, he said.

Youngkin unveiled plans for a separate and possibly legacy-making project in December when he announced the framework of a proposal to move the NBA’s Washington Wizards and NHL’s Washington Capitals across the Potomac to Alexandria.

Legislation that would create a government entity that could issue around $1.5 billion in bonds to finance the deal will be among the session’s most closely watched.

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The governor has also called for lawmakers to continue working with him to improve the state’s mental health care system, including by tightening the reins on social media companies and banning TikTok for users under 18.

Later Wednesday, he will offer his annual State of the Commonwealth address, a chance to set the tone for his work with the new Assembly and highlight additional priorities.

Lawmakers will take up hundreds of other bills in the hectic sprint that is the legislative session.

Republicans, who have said they plan to hold Democrats accountable for any rush to the left, want to try again to pass a bill that would allow prosecutors to charge drug dealers with felony homicide if a user dies of an overdose. They’re also promising a renewed effort to repeal an electric vehicle mandate Democrats enacted in 2021.

Democrats, who overhauled the state’s gun laws while they controlled state government in 2020 and 2021, have filed a wide range of bills to tighten penalties for gun-related convictions and limit access to firearms, including a measure that would prohibit the sale of certain assault-style weapons.

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Those measures will face the prospect of a Youngkin veto, though the governor has been quiet enough on the issue that leading gun rights advocates have said they are uncertain of how he might act.

Democrats have or are expected to file measures that will put Youngkin on the record on other topics where he’s hedged, including gay marriage and marijuana retail sales.

They will also be able to elect judges and fill other appointments and have pledged to start the multi-year process of amending the state constitution to protect abortion rights and take the process of restoring voting rights for felons who have served their terms out of the governor’s hands.

This year’s session is scheduled to end in early March.



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This Underrated Virginia County Has It All—Including Charming Hotels, Local Wineries, and the Newest State Park

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This Underrated Virginia County Has It All—Including Charming Hotels, Local Wineries, and the Newest State Park


Loudoun County, Virginia

  • Book a room at the newest addition to Leesburg’s hospitality scene, Hotel Burg, which opens to guests in August.

  • Visit one of the many wineries in the area—such as Breaux Vineyards in Purcellville or Good Spirit Farm Winery in Round Hill.

  • Browse vintage furniture and home decor at Lucketts Store in Leesburg.

  • Plan your trip to Loudoun County in the autumn, when the area’s fall foliage is on full display.

Virginia contains mountains, vineyards, small towns, luxury hotels, artistic hubs, and some of the most inspiring culinary scenes on the East Coast. While you could certainly traverse the Commonwealth to witness its multiplicity, you could also stick to one region—namely, Loudoun County.

Often referred to simply as “Loudoun,” Loudoun County is made up of a handful of towns and communities: Leesburg (the county seat), Middleburg, Purcellville, Waterford, Sterling, Round Hill, Lucketts, Hillsboro, Lovettsville, Hamilton, Ashburn, and Bluemont. “As a business owner in Loudoun, I really appreciate the diversity. Each city or town has its own vibe and culture. I also like how each city has its own local flair and events that the community can support,” says Silas Redd, owner of Nostalgia Boutique and Mister on Main in Purcellville.

“Some people ‘pit’ eastern Loudoun versus western Loudoun,” Jody Brady, founder and director of the Loudoun Appalachian Trail Festival, tells Travel + Leisure, explaining how eastern Loudoun is known for its suburban developments and shopping centers while western Loudoun has more farms and wineries. “But I think Loudoun works because east and west mix all this up and make the county the dynamic, thriving place it is,” she says. And as Reagan Walker, owner of Waterford Reservations, shares, “Whether you are into outdoor activities or culinary experiences, or you’re a wine or beer lover, there is truly something for everyone.”

Read on for our comprehensive guide to Loudoun County, Virginia.

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Best Hotels

Hotel Burg

Guest room inside Hotel Burg.

Hotel Burg

“Charming bed-and-breakfasts abound in Loudoun, and an array of hotels line the roads near Dulles International Airport, but the most recent talk of the town is the new, elegant Hotel Burg in the heart of Leesburg’s historic district,” says Brady. Set to open to guests this summer, the luxury boutique hotel will have a restaurant, The Huntōn, a cocktail bar, The Diana Lounge, and a rooftop bar.

Lansdowne Resort

“I have also loved visiting Lansdowne Resort. It is expansive, and the food is top-notch,” says Redd. The 500-acre, family-friendly property is located in Leesburg, and its amenities include three golf courses, a spa with 12 treatment rooms, and three outdoor pools.

Salamander Middleburg

“Of course, five-star Salamander Resort in Middleburg remains the top-tier stay in Loudoun,” says Brady. The resort is ideal for those travelers who enjoy balancing activities with relaxation. There’s horseback riding, golf, tennis, and a pool, plus a full-service spa to retreat to when you’re ready for some downtime.

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Best Things to Do

Amanda Andrade-Rhoades/For The Washington Post via Getty Images Hikers take in the view at Bear's Den Scenic Lookout.

Amanda Andrade-Rhoades/For The Washington Post via Getty Images

Hikers take in the view at Bear’s Den Scenic Lookout.

Go for a hike.

It’s not hard to find a way to stay active in Loudoun County, and one of the best ways to get in your steps and see the area is to hike. “Walk a stretch of the Appalachian Trail and picnic at the Bears Den Overlook, or explore the trails at Sweet Run State Park, Virginia’s newest state park,” says Brady.

Find some live music.

“We have so many talented local musicians, and you can’t beat the free summer music series in Hillsboro and Leesburg,” says Brady, who also recommends listening to music at Monk’s BBQ or Wheatland Spring. “Tarara Summer Concert Series is another favorite during the summer and early fall,” says Walker, describing “one of the most beautiful concert venues” she’s been to. “Invite your friends and family and enjoy a variety of great bands throughout the season.”

Visit a local winery, brewery, cidery, or distillery.

Places to grab a locally made drink abound in Loudoun County. Redd prefers Walsh Family Wine—and recommends a glass of their viognier—and Catoctin Creek Distillery, “for one of their highly curated ‘Dinner at the Distillery’ events.” Walker suggests checking out Breaux Vineyards, where you’re “surrounded by exquisite views of the vineyard,” and 8 Chains North. The latter, she notes, is dog-friendly and a “sure spot to stop if bringing your pup along.” Brady also has a few favorite spots, including Black Hoof Brewing Co. in Leesburg and Henway Hard Cider in Bluemont.

“In addition, most wineries and breweries have live local music and great food options on the weekends. Keep an eye out on their event calendars as most places host special events—festivals, wine dinners, and more,” says Walker.

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Attend a renowned tag sale.

Every year, thousands of shoppers make their way to Loudoun County to attend the Purcellville VA Tag Sale. “One of the largest events in Purcellville, this one-day event is a shopping and collectors’ dream! Our local boutiques have special discounts, and there are over 150 vendors selling antiques, handmade items, etc,” says Redd.

Towns to Visit

Gerville/Getty Images Aerial view of a Purcellville, Virginia residential area.

Gerville/Getty Images

Aerial view of a Purcellville, Virginia residential area.

Purcellville

“Purcellville is probably my favorite. It feels like it is one of the last small towns in Loudoun that hasn’t been overdeveloped. The community is really supportive of the restaurants, boutiques, and events,” says Redd.

Leesburg

“Downtown Leesburg has become such a fun place over the years, with so many wonderful restaurants, historic sites, shops, and live music,” says Walker. “The town also celebrates First Friday; the downtown is buzzing with people enjoying live music, art exhibits, open storefronts, food, and drink.”

Round Hill, Hillsboro, and Bluemont

“Round Hill, Hillsboro, and Bluemont are Loudoun’s three ‘A.T. Communities,’ a designation each town earned from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy for their commitment to the protection and promotion of the Appalachian Trail,” says Brady. “These three communities work together to put on the annual Loudoun A.T. Festival in June with a full day of Americana music, trail talks, nature crafts, and an art show.”

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Walker also adds that Hillsboro has an annual Independence Day celebration, which she describes as a “hometown experience full of life,” with “fireworks, live music, food, wine, beer, and kids’ fun.”

Waterford

“I might be biased because I grew up in the town and now live two miles outside of it, but there is something magical about Waterford,” says Walker. “It is filled with history, beautiful historic homes, and hosts the Waterford Fair annually. There is a lovely walking trail called the Phillips Farm Trail, which is a walk along the Catoctin Creek adjacent to the town.”

Middleburg

There’s no shortage of charm in Middleburg, a small town where equestrian heritage and storied history are on display around every corner. It’s also home to several luxe hotels and inns; along with Salamander Middleburg, there’s The Red Fox Inn & Tavern as well as Goodstone Inn & Restaurant.

Best Restaurants

The Conche Interior shot of The Conche dining room.

The Conche

Interior shot of The Conche dining room.

Purcellville

“Magnolias at the Mill has always been a top choice of mine. Whether I’m celebrating a special occasion, meeting my girlfriends for brunch, or simply stopping in for a nice lunch or dinner, the experience is always top-notch,” says Walker. For what Redd calls the “best BLT sandwich ever,” head to Market Burger Fries & Shakes. If you want a “great home-cooked breakfast,” he suggests Purcellville Family Restaurant.

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Leesburg

Walker calls EagleTree Farm Winery & Restaurants a “hidden gem.” “Located outside of Leesburg, they offer a delicious seasonal menu with excellent service,” she says. While in Leesburg, stop by any one of Brady’s favorites: Tuscarora Mill, SideBar, Shoe’s Cup and Cork, or The Conche.

Hillsboro

“I am a pizza lover, so one of my favorite stops is in the town of Hillsboro at Market in The Gap,” says Walker. She shares it “has amazing wood-fired pizza made right in front of you,” a “smaller cozy atmosphere inside,” and “an outdoor area for seating in warmer weather.”

Middleburg

If you find yourself in Middleburg, there are two iconic restaurants that come recommended by Brady. For the more traditional route, make a reservation at the Red Fox Inn & Tavern. In the mood for something more casual? King St. Oyster Bar, with its seafood entrees and happy hour specials, should do the trick.

Best Shopping

JackF/Adobe Stock Variety of assortments in store of antique furniture.

JackF/Adobe Stock

Variety of assortments in store of antique furniture.

Leesburg

“I am very into design and decor, so I absolutely love going to the Lucketts Store. They have so many amazing finds. I could literally spend all day there and will always find something to take home,” says Walker. “Leesburg boutiques make for a wonderful afternoon of shopping, including Muz & Roz, wldwst, Misguided Angels, Birch Tree Bookstore, Brick & Mortar Mercantile, and Madisonbelle,” adds Brady.

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Waterford

“I love The Corner Store in Waterford. Pop in and explore amazing vintage furniture and locally produced and handmade goods,” says Walker. “The store also has an excellent small menu created by Chef Estelle Richer-Legault. The freshness of the menu and experience are exceptional.”

Purcellville

“I like to score second-hand treasures in Purcellville at Nostalgia, Twigs, It’s Bazaar, and Re-Love It,” says Brady. Redd is also a fan of Twigs. “This place is the queen of unique gifts! Everything from jewelry and candles and soaps to tabletop books and womens wear,” he says, adding that Twin Flame Vintage, a “kitschy boutique focusing on vintage clothing, housewares, home decor, and ephemera,” is another one that travelers should have on their list. If it’s menswear you’re after, take a peek at Redd’s Mister on Main boutique housed inside its sibling store, Nostalgia.

Round Hill

“Elsass in Round Hill is one of my favorites,” says Redd. “It’s a former mechanic shop converted into an antique store specializing in French antiquities.” Elsass is open from Friday through Sunday or by appointment.

Lovettsville

According to Walker, the “best goat cheese around” can be found at Georges Mill Farm Artisan Cheese in Lovettsville. Long Stone Farm is also on her shortlist; bring a cooler so you can keep the pork, eggs, and other perishable products you pick up cold.

Best Time to Visit

LindasPhotography/Getty Images Autumn leaves in Loudoun County.

LindasPhotography/Getty Images

Autumn leaves in Loudoun County.

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“Fall is hands-down the best time to visit,” says Redd. “There’s nothing better than enjoying a local glass of wine and seeing the seasons change from the leaves on the trees and native plants.” Alternatively, says Brady, if you explore Loudoun in the spring, you may get to see the wildflowers at Balls Bluff or attend Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy’s Spring Native Plant Sale and the Leesburg Flower & Garden Festival in April. Walker, on the other hand, recommends planning your visit for late summer: “The backdrop is so beautiful this time of year. If you visit wineries, the vines are so lush and beautiful,” she says.

How to Get There

If you plan on flying to Loudoun, you’ll want to choose Dulles International Airport (IAD) as your destination. From there, you can either rent a car or book a taxi or rideshare service. IAD is only about a 20-to-40-minute drive away from Loudoun, depending on where you’re going within the county. There’s also the option to come by train from D.C. There are three Metrorail Silver Line stations that serve Loudoun: Dulles International Airport, Loudoun Gateway, and Ashburn Station.

How to Get Around

The most convenient way to explore Loudoun County is by car. This allows you the freedom to visit the different towns that make up the county, popping into different restaurants, shops, and wineries. Just be sure to assign a designated driver ahead of time if you plan on indulging in any wine or other alcoholic beverages.

Read the original article on Travel & Leisure





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Why you should visit New Kent County this summer

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Why you should visit New Kent County this summer


NEW KENT COUNTY, Va. — If you’re looking for a day trip or weekend staycation, New Kent County could fit the bill.

“New Kent is known as one of the fastest-growing communities in the state of Virginia and one of the top ten in the nation,” said Lindsay Hurt, the county’s Director of Economic Development & Tourism.

About 30 minutes from Richmond, New Kent County offers a number of activities for families this summer.

“We have really great wineries, a brewery, we have Colonial Downs — which is the only thoroughbred horse track in the state of Virginia — we have premiere golf courses and also nature preserves,” said Hurt. “So we’re a really great place to come and visit and explore.”

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The equine industry is an important part of the county. In fact, a horse is the first thing featured on the county’s logo.

“Colonial Downs and the horse track itself has been a staple in New Kent since its reopening in 2019,” said Hurt. “We’ve seen a large interest and growth from not only residents and locals that live around the different regions, but from people all across the country and even visitors we have come from all over the world.”

The live racing season at Colonial Downs is underway now through September 13. There are specials and Family Fun events every week. Click here for more details.

And while you plan your day at the track, be sure to check out everything the area has to offer. Click here for a calendar of things to do in New Kent County.

“We want folks to come and visit and get to experience time to build memories and have some time with friends and family,” said Hurt. “It’s a really great place to put devices down, to have one-on-one time, connect and be outside and enjoy some of the natural beauty that we have to offer in New Kent.”

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Colonial Downs Racetrack is located at 10515 Colonial Downs Pkwy, New Kent, VA 23124. Give them a call at (804) 557-5684 or click here to visit their website.

{*THIS SEGMENT IS SPONSORED BY COLONIAL DOWNS*}





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New “Blue Envelope” program in Virginia aims to ease traffic stops for drivers with autism

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New “Blue Envelope” program in Virginia aims to ease traffic stops for drivers with autism


A new initiative across Virginia is working to make traffic stops less stressful for people on the autism spectrum.

It’s called the Blue Envelope Program, and it’s now available at DMV customer service centers statewide. The envelope is designed to help bridge communication gaps between drivers with autism and law enforcement officers during traffic stops.

The program is voluntary, free of charge and doesn’t require any paperwork or proof of diagnosis.

Drivers are encouraged to keep their license, registration and insurance card in the envelope. The envelope also contains tips and guidance for both the driver and the officer.

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For drivers, it offers reminders like:

  • Say “I have a Blue Envelope” during a stop.

  • Stay calm and hand the envelope to the officer.

  • If something is unclear, it’s okay to ask for it to be repeated.

For law enforcement, the outside of the envelope includes suggestions to help create a calmer, more understanding interaction — like using clear, direct language and allowing extra time for the person to respond.

Traffic stops can be overwhelming for anyone, but especially for people with autism who may react differently to stress, loud noises or sudden changes. The Blue Envelope acts as a signal to officers that the person they’re interacting with may communicate in a different way — and that a little extra patience can go a long way.

Anyone can pick up a Blue Envelope at a Virginia DMV customer service center — no questions asked. The program is confidential and meant to empower drivers and their families to be better prepared for the unexpected.

The program’s goal is to reduce anxiety, improve communication and ultimately keep everyone safer during high-pressure situations.

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