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William & Mary alumna Anna Rader Groves has written a commentary urging the Historic Triangle community to advocate against federal science funding cuts. Groves, a neuroscience Ph.D. candidate, highlights local ties to science and the negative impacts of recent budget reductions on researchers and projects. She notes job cuts at federal agencies affecting her network, including those studying stroke treatments for veterans. Federal funding for science is at a more than three-decade low, impacting research across fields from climate patterns to medical treatments. Groves encourages residents to contact representatives and engage with local scientists to support future scientific progress.

TABITHA SEWER STUDIO RELOCATES TO OUTLET MALL

Tabitha Sewer Studio has moved to the Williamsburg Premium Outlets.
Owner Tabitha Sewer is a sewing influencer, business professor, and U.S. Air Force veteran.
The new location features a Maker Lab offering various crafts.
Craft options include “Sugarcoating,” “Cabin Craft,” “Adopt a Pal,” and “The Glow Up.”
The studio will also sell fabric and Tabitha Sewer’s designed products.
Sewer feels blessed and lucky about the expansion.
A dedicated room is available for sewing classes and private events.
An official ribbon-cutting event is scheduled for June 27.

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Tabitha Sewer Studio Expands to New Location in Outlet Mall

WILLIAMSBURG “NO KINGS” RALLY PROTESTS TRUMP POLICIES

A large crowd gathered in Williamsburg on Saturday, June 14 for a “No Kings” rally.
The protest took place along Monticello Avenue and at the Williamsburg-James City County Courthouse.
Participants were protesting President Donald Trump and his administration’s policies.
The rally was part of a nationwide series of events.
Similar regional rallies occurred, including one at the Yorktown Victory Monument.
The protests were described as largely peaceful.
They coincided with a military parade in Washington D.C.
Critics suggested the D.C. event also marked President Trump’s birthday on June 14.
The rallies followed recent immigration protests and presidential orders regarding the National Guard and Marines.

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In Photos: Large Crowd Takes Part in Williamsburg ‘No Kings’ Rally

Thousands attended the largest “No Kings” rally in the region at the Williamsburg-James City Courthouse on Saturday night. The protest organized by Williamsburg JCC Indivisible was one of many nationwide against the Trump administration’s actions and policies. Speakers included Democratic candidate Jessica Anderson and retired Army officer Herb Jones. Organizers estimated around 4,000 people attended the rally, which aimed to reject authoritarianism, billionaire first politics, and militarization of democracy. Attendees expressed concerns about the state of the country and growing intolerance. The event coincided with Flag Day and the 250th anniversary of the US Army, and protested President Trump’s parade celebration.

FORT EUSTIS HONORS ARMY’S 250TH BIRTHDAY

Fort Eustis held an open house celebration for the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday.
This marked the first time the base was open to the public since 2018.
The event included live music, various activities, food, and interactive displays.
Attendees saw Army vehicles, helicopters, watercraft, and gear displays.
Third Port, home to Army watercraft, was open for tours of vessels.
The Fifes and Drums of York Town and The Nashville Nights Band performed.
The celebration concluded with fireworks.
The open house was a way to thank the community for their support.

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Photo Gallery: Fort Eustis Honors Army’s 250th Birthday with Open House Celebration

Literacy for Life, a Peninsula nonprofit, celebrated its 50th anniversary educating adult learners. The organization provides free instruction in reading, math, English, and life skills to over 1,000 learners annually using volunteer tutors and staff. A celebration event at William & Mary recognized the group’s impact and community partnerships. Executive Director Jason Thornton noted growing demand but highlighted challenges including potential federal funding cuts of 20 percent, or $240,000. Literacy for Life plans to introduce a $50 annual learner registration fee with waivers to help offset potential funding losses. Learners Ed Swann and Kenia Ramirez shared stories of achieving literacy and citizenship goals with the program’s help. The organization stated its commitment to its mission despite facing funding and other obstacles.

JAMES CITY COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER PROJECT MOVES FORWARD

The James City County Board of Supervisors approved a special use permit for a new $189.5 million government center.
The project aims to consolidate 12 county functions into one building at a central location.
This new facility will replace aging and scattered current government buildings.
The board states the cost is comparable to maintaining existing facilities and will last longer.
Recent opposition has surfaced, with some demanding a public referendum.
Supervisors clarified the permit is a land use step and not final approval of the project’s design, contract, or funding.
Board members acknowledged the need for more public communication and plan town halls to address concerns and misinformation.
A referendum, they explained, can only address the financing method, not whether the project is built.
The special use permit was approved by a 4-1 vote.

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James City County Approves Special Use Permit for New Government Center

Andrew F. Susalis, 36, was sentenced to more than 99 years in prison Tuesday in York-Poquoson Circuit Court. The sentence followed his Alford pleas to charges related to shooting at police officers on July 17 last summer. Susalis fired over 100 rounds from his York County home as officers investigated a road rage incident. One officer was slightly injured and a nearby house was hit by bullets during the shooting.

Jamestown High School’s boys soccer team advanced to the Class 4 state championship game by beating Charlottesville 2-0 on Friday at Monticello High School. The boys team will play for the state title today at 12:30 p.m. Jamestown’s girls soccer team lost its Class 4 state semifinal game 3-0 to Woodgrove on Friday at Monticello High School.

Sentara hospitals across Hampton Roads celebrated the graduation of 26 Project SEARCH interns since late May. Seven interns graduated on June 6 from the program at Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center. Project SEARCH is a school-to-work transition program for high school students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The program partners with local schools and state agencies to provide year-long internships in a workplace setting. Graduates gained experience in various hospital departments, developing skills and confidence for future employment. Program staff and hospital mentors highlighted the graduates’ achievements and future potential. Some graduates have secured jobs or are pursuing further career opportunities following the program.