July 5, 2026
Laura Schupp
Thoughts from the Crossroads – “Give me liberty or give me death!”
In honor of the rapidly approaching Independence Day holiday, today’s column is about the speaker of that famous quote - Founding Father Patrick Henry. We are all familiar with his famous line, delivered to the second Virginia Convention in 1775, but how much do you know about the man otherwise? I must admit until very recently my knowledge was woefully pitiful. But I’ve learned a bit, so here goes.
Thoughts from the Crossroads – Fort Bragg
Dear Readers, when I left you last week, Rick and I were departing our hotel in San Francisco and crossing the Golden Gate Bridge to head north. We drove the coastal highway all the way up to Fort Bragg, enjoying the scenic ocean views.
Thoughts from the Crossroads – San Francisco
Dear Readers, Rick and I visited California recently, and really enjoyed our time there.
Thoughts from the Crossroads – Two Lafayettes
Today’s column is keeping in theme with America’s 250th birthday, but also in honor of the federal holiday Juneteenth. I’m writing about James Armistead Lafayette - a Revolutionary War Patriot. James was born into slavery on a Virginia plantation owned by William Armistead. He eventually met the Marquis de Lafayette (the exact details of which are lost to history, but presumably through James’ owner) and the two formed a unique and lifelong friendship. Thanks in large part to this friendship, James had an extraordinary life.
Thoughts from the Crossroads – Poplar Forest
Dear Readers, for many years I’ve wanted to visit Poplar Forest, down near Lynchburg. For one reason or another it never happened. Well, thanks to a little extra push from America’s 250th anniversary, I finally made it there! It was a wonderful visit. Here’s the story.
Thoughts from the Crossroads – Mt. Vernon
Dear Readers, I made another pilgrimage to an America 250 locale - Mt. Vernon. Famous home to George Washington, the father of our great country. It was a picture perfect weather day, and Rick joined me. We decided to forgo the house tour this visit, since we’d seen the interior several years ago. There were many other things on site to accomplish, and only about five hours in which to do so. With the ideal weather, we chose to focus on the outdoor portions of the estate.
Thoughts from the Crossroads – Alien death ray
Two things happened over the past few days: 1) I thought we were under an alien attack; and 2) I learned that although my husband and I both speak English, we don’t always communicate well. Yep, pretty much an ordinary week in the Schupp household!