The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is hosting the Fine Arts and Flowers event from October 23-27, transforming its galleries into a floral paradise. The event, which began in 1986, features custom-made floral displays by members of the Garden Club of Virginia, Virginia Federation of Garden Clubs, and Ikebana of Richmond. These displays reinterpret 76 pieces from the museum's permanent collection, enhancing the art with floral designs. JoAnn McNabb, a master flower show judge, is among the designers creating these interpretations. The event aims to attract visitors who might not typically visit an art museum, offering a fresh perspective on the museum's art. The floral arrangements are supported by Strange’s Florists, Greenhouses & Garden Centers, providing around 10,000 stems for the event.

Richmond National Battlefield Park is home to a diverse bat population, including endangered species like the little brown bat. Efforts to study and protect these bats have increased due to the threat of white-nose syndrome, a disease that has significantly impacted bat populations. Researchers, including biologist Nicholas Kalen, have been using acoustic detectors and mist nets to monitor bat activity and identify species. The park's diverse habitats provide ideal conditions for bats, which play a crucial role in controlling insect populations. Conservation efforts include careful planning of park activities to minimize impact on bats, and the promotion of bat-friendly practices among locals.

Richmond is home to several historic gardens, each with unique backstories and cultural significance. Maymont's Japanese garden, designed by Yonehachi Muto, and the Valentine Museum's garden are notable examples of restored landscapes that reflect the city's rich history. The Garden Club of Virginia has played a crucial role in preserving these sites, ensuring their stories and beauty endure. Grace Arents' garden at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is another testament to the city's commitment to maintaining its horticultural heritage. These gardens serve as vital connections to the past, enriching the community's cultural and natural heritage.

The article highlights the conservation efforts to restore the Atlantic sturgeon population in the James River, Virginia. Despite being nearly eradicated due to pollution and overfishing, the species has made a significant comeback thanks to research and protective measures. Dr. Matthew Balazik from Virginia Commonwealth University has been pivotal in studying these fish, which are now a part of local wildlife tours. Challenges remain, such as boat strikes and a lack of young fish, but initiatives like the James River Association's tours and Hardywood Park Craft Brewery's 'Great Return' beer support ongoing conservation efforts.

Nicole Norman, alongside her husband Andrew Crittendon, runs Mojo Glassworks, a stained glass studio in Richmond. Initially a hobby, Norman's passion for stained glass turned into a career after being laid off during the pandemic. The studio specializes in custom designs and offers classes to the community. Mojo Glassworks gained recognition after working on HBO's 'Trixie Motel' project. Norman aspires to create large-scale installations and continue expanding her business.

The immersive art exhibition 'Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience' is set to open at the Richmond Art Center, offering a unique and interactive way to engage with the works of Vincent Van Gogh. The exhibition, produced by Exhibition Hub, uses advanced technology to create a 360° digital experience, allowing visitors to connect with Van Gogh's art and life. Highlights include a virtual reality experience and projections of iconic paintings like 'Starry Night.' The exhibition has been praised globally and offers a fresh perspective on Van Gogh's legacy.

Artificial lights in Richmond pose a significant threat to migrating birds, often leading to fatal collisions with buildings. The Audubon Society's 'Lights Out' initiative aims to mitigate this by encouraging the reduction of non-essential lighting during peak migration periods. Dr. Stephen Ferguson highlights the physiological disruptions caused by light pollution, emphasizing the importance of turning off lights to conserve bird energy and prevent accidents. The Richmond Audubon Society seeks volunteers to promote bird-friendly practices, underscoring the ecological benefits of protecting avian species.

Daphne Lee, founder of Judith + Rolfe, is a renowned paper artist known for her intricate and detailed papercraft creations. Originally from Singapore, Lee moved to New York to study architecture before transitioning to papercraft after relocating to Minnesota. Her work, which includes vibrant floral designs and massive roses, has been showcased in various exhibitions, including the Helsinki Design Museum. Now based in Richmond, Lee continues to create and hopes to display her work in local galleries, aiming to inspire a new generation of paper artists.

Lab Rescue of Greater Richmond (LRGR) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehoming Labrador Retrievers, particularly in Central Virginia. Founded in 2006, LRGR prioritizes saving labs from overcrowded and kill shelters, having rehomed over 1,100 labs to date. The organization emphasizes understanding and respect during the surrender process and offers foster care for labs awaiting adoption. LRGR encourages fostering and donations, with funds often directed towards medical needs. The group also organizes events like Tails on the Trails and Pups in the Pool to raise awareness and support for their mission.

The aging population and rising temperatures are creating a hidden crisis for older adults, who are more vulnerable to extreme heat. Older adults face higher risks due to less efficient cooling mechanisms, underlying health conditions, and medications that increase heat sensitivity. Regions like Arizona and the desert areas of California are seeing rapid growth in older populations, necessitating better infrastructure and services to protect them during heat waves. Northern regions, traditionally cooler, are also experiencing increased heat risks, with older homes lacking efficient cooling systems. Community-scale adaptations, such as early warning systems and energy-efficient air conditioning, are essential to mitigate these risks.