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Editor’s Pick
Virginia’s legislative body dates way back, but you don’t have to get your news from the town crier these days. | Photo via Virginia General Assembly
Virginia’s 2026 General Assembly session is in full swing, and keeping up with legislation can be… a lot.
If you want to keep an eye on a specific bill,we suggest trying out this online bill tracker to help narrow down key information — summaries, timelines, related documents, and community conversations.
For example, you could track SB 619, which might impact your energy bills. It’s kinda like a social media feed, but for legislation.
The conservatory at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden will reopen this spring, doubled in size.
Rendering via Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Civic
Earlier this week, Richmond City Council voted to loan $14.7 million from the city’s reserve fund to the Economic Development Authority. Why? To purchase Sports Backers Stadium and advance Diamond District developments in accordance with CarMax Park’s April opening. (The Richmonder)
Announced
Save the date. Two years of construction are coming to a close at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. A reopening date for the expanded conservatory and gardens is set for Saturday, May 23. Here’s a preview video for what’s new and changing.
Quoted
“What is ‘Hank’s’ anyway?” Hank’s (last name: Fried Chicken & Things) is the brick-and-mortar evolution of 1115 Mobile Kitchen, coming soon to the Fan. The new space isn’t ready yet, but Hank’s will be making flavorful introductions at a Mayor Meats pop-up this Saturday, Feb. 28.
Number
$550,000. That’s the material cost of Richmond’s winter storm response last month, accounting for treatment across 2,500 lane miles in total. Stay tuned. A full fiscal report, including a pothole and road damage assessment + the number of violation notices issued throughout the storm, is due Monday, March 2. (WTVR)
Coming Soon
Popeyes and Sheetz. Those are the two franchise developments taking shape across from the Staples Mill Amtrak Station, and that’s not all. The 10-acre project will also include 14 two-story townhomes. (WTVR + BizSense)
Development
Bolling Haxall House, a historic Italianate mansion and event venue, is undergoing a $2.4 million renovation. Upgrades include general safety and infrastructure modernizations, as well as “an aesthetic makeover” aimed at reviving elements of the building’s original 1915 design. (BizSense)
Biz
Have something big launching next month? Whether it’s a limited-time promo or a seasonal event, make sure your message lands in front of our thousands of highly engaged local subscribers. Get started on our business promo portal with zero long-term contract.
Learn
Experts are naming this versatile card “essential for 2026” for its 0% intro APR on balance transfers through 2027. Translation: It can save you hundreds (or thousands) in interest. Even better — it has zero annual fee. Learn more + apply.*
Sale alert. If you love Vuori’s soft feel, flattering cuts, and performance fabrics as much as we do, shop the workout clothes + casual wear marked down for less this week:
Wondering what Hank’s Fried Chicken & Things is dishing out at the Mayor Meats pop-up this weekend? Here are a few locked-in menu items to stir your cravings.
I can’t decide between The Boomerang (for the apple slaw) or The Sploosh (for the peach horseradish jam), so I might have to just divert my attention to the Korean Bird Dog (for the Gochujang glaze).
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