Aila Boyd

Fincastle

Editor at Roanoke Times

Editor at The Franklin News-Post

#journalist #educator

Articles

Discover 17 must-attend summer events in Virginia

1 week ago | vadogwood.com | Aila Boyd

FloydFest: FloydFest is a five-day outdoor music festival. (Virginia Tourism Corporation) Discover 17 must-attend summer events in Virginia, from waterfront celebrations and wine tastings to music festivals and cultural events.
The 13 coolest and quirkiest museums in Virginia

1 week ago | vadogwood.com | Aila Boyd

Beyond Virginia’s well-known historical landmarks and natural attractions lies a fascinating trail of unconventional museums that showcase the commonwealth’s eclectic cultural offerings and quirky historical treasures. From a ham that’s been preserved since 1902 with its own social media following to a massive collection of playable vintage pinball machines spanning nearly a century of American entertainment, these offbeat cultural institutions reveal unexpected facets of Virginia’s heritage. 1.
13 Virginia tearooms that are perfect for celebrating Mother’s Day

1 week ago | vadogwood.com | Aila Boyd

The Queen’s Library Tea Room offers an elegant experience in a century-old building. (Courtesy of The Queen’s Library Tea Room) Discover the best Virginia tearooms for a memorable Mother’s Day celebration, offering charming settings, delicious teas, and delightful treats.
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with 4 must-try NoVA restaurants

1 week ago | vadogwood.com | Aila Boyd

Spice up your May 5 plans by visiting a local Mexican restaurant serving authentic flavors. Looking for a way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, the Mexican victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla? We can’t think of a more delicious option than tasting an authentic meal. Location: FredericksburgMi Rancho Authentic Mexican Food serves dishes that are inspired by tradition.
11 restaurants in Virginia with breathtaking views

2 weeks ago | vadogwood.com | Aila Boyd

Several restaurants in Virginia, like Waterman’s Surfside Grille, provide scenic views with scrumptious eats.(Waterman’s Surfside Grille) Discover the best restaurants in Virginia with a view, where delicious meals come with stunning waterfront, skyline, and mountain scenery. Great food is one thing, but a meal with a view takes the dining experience to another level.
15 activists from Virginia you should know about

2 weeks ago | vadogwood.com | Aila Boyd

Discover the influential activists from Virginia who have fought for justice and left a lasting impact on the state and nation. From civil rights pioneers to suffrage advocates, Virginia has been home to influential activists who fought for justice and equality. Some championed causes decades ago, while others continue their work today. Whether advocating for racial equity, women’s rights, or LGBTQ+ liberation, these Virginians have left a lasting impact on both the commonwealth and the nation.
Nonprofit Champions

2 weeks ago | theroanoker.com | Aila Boyd

The story below is a preview from our May/June 2025 issue. For more stories like it, Subscribe Today. Thank you! Nonprofit leaders in Roanoke are creating lasting change through passion, perseverance and service, overcoming challenges to support mental health, foster care and community well-being. Nonprofit leaders in Roanoke are shaping the community through passion, perseverance and purpose.
Russian manicures in Virginia: What to know & where to go

2 weeks ago | vadogwood.com | Aila Boyd

If you're looking for cleaner and longer-lasting nail look, consider trying a trendy Russian manicure. (Getty Images/Unsplash) Discover the top salons in Virginia offering Russian manicures, a precise nail care technique known for its long-lasting and flawless results. Russian manicures have been trending online, and for good reason.
Get your game on at the 12 best arcades in Virginia

3 weeks ago | vadogwood.com | Aila Boyd

Not all arcades in Virginia are created equal. (Molly the Cat/Unsplash) Discover the best arcades in Virginia, offering a variety of classic and modern games for all ages and exciting prize-winning opportunities. Whether you’re looking to relive the golden age of arcade gaming or discover a modern twist on classic entertainment, Virginia has no shortage of exciting arcades.
How to spend a weekend in Abingdon, Virginia

3 weeks ago | vadogwood.com | Aila Boyd

Spend a weekend in Abingdon, Virginia, where history, art, and Southern charm come together to create a memorable getaway. Begin your visit with a stay at the historic Martha Washington Inn & Spa before exploring the town’s vibrant food scene, offering everything from farm-to-table dining to Southern comfort food. Discover local art at the William King Museum and browse the Abingdon Antique Barn for unique treasures.