Charles Womack

Virginia has approved a legal retail market for recreational marijuana. Here are the key details. When does it take effect? Licensed retail sales of recreational marijuana will begin July 1, 2027. When was it approved? The General Assembly gave final approval to the measure June 29, 2026, after accepting Gov. Abigail Spanberger’s amendments to the state budget. Who can buy marijuana? Adults 21 and older will be able to purchase marijuana from licensed retail stores.

CHATHAM, Va. — By the time Shemariah Jones arrived home from school, her homework was often already finished. Instead of waiting until evening, the Chatham High School student frequently completed assignments during the ride home, leaving more time for college classes, extracurricular activities, volunteer work and, eventually, a part-time job. That quiet discipline helped carry Jones to the top of the Chatham High School Class of 2026.

CHATHAM, Va. — Pittsylvania County students returned home with a national championship and several top finishes after competing against thousands of students from across the country at the 2026 National Beta Convention in Nashville, Tennessee.