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Independent student newspaper of Washington and Lee University

The Ring-tum Phi

Independent student newspaper of Washington and Lee University

The Ring-tum Phi

Independent student newspaper of Washington and Lee University

The Ring-tum Phi

Marysue Forrest ran The Bookery for close to 30 years. Photo courtesy of Leigh Forrest

‘She is The Bookery’: local business owner remembered for impact on Lexington’s literary community

Marysue Forrest, longtime owner of The Bookery in Lexington, died peacefully April 27 at age 77
Jackson Doane
May 19, 2025
The “We Choose Love” rainbow flag was torn down near the garden of Grace Episcopal Church. Photo by Yuhei Hagino

LGBTQ+ flag repeatedly torn down at Grace Episcopal Church

Church rector wants to open a dialogue with those responsible, not seek out punishment
Yuhei Hagino
May 19, 2025
Michael McLaughlin, ’23, and Sellers Smith, ’23, enjoy exploring Lexington. Photo courtesy of McLaughlin and Smith

Washington and Lee graduates find opportunities to stay in Lexington

Some students are choosing to stay in Lexington after graduation, embracing the town’s professional and personal possibilities
Amelia Lanier, General Assignment Staff Writer
May 19, 2025
Local vendors gather in downtown Lexington every Wednesday to sell their products. Photo courtesy of Joshua Davidson '28

Farm-fresh food and first-name basis define the Lexington Farmers Market

Eat up the Phi’s preview of the vendors you can expect at the farmers market this spring
Joshua Davidson, Local Editor
May 19, 2025
Panelists share their insights on social movements in a discussion titled “Imagining a Better American Future: From Abolition to Science Fiction, and beyond.”

Speakers imagine better future at Rockbridge Library

The panelists discussed science fiction, race relations and the role of art in expressing personal identity and coping with societal problems
Yuhei Hagino
April 7, 2025
City Council approved $22 million of municipal bonds to help pay for renovations to city hall and other projects.

City Council pushes budget forward

Like cities across the country, Lexington might have to factor in the financial effects of the Trump administration
Joshua Davidson, Local Staff Writer
April 7, 2025
“Rally for Love” participants gather on Main Street to promote causes they care about.

Lexington community members organize “Rallies for Love”

In a time of political fear and uncertainty, the Lexington community gathers weekly to voice solidarity for the things that they love
Amelia Lanier, General Assignment Staff Writer
March 24, 2025
Residents troubled by effects of university expansion

Residents troubled by effects of university expansion

As city council considers another permit allowing W&L to rent space in downtown, store owners and residents have concerns
Joshua Davidson, Local Staff Writer
March 24, 2025
Owners Mary Jo and John Morman sell to Lexington visitors and locals inside their store.

Celtic Tides brings a taste of Scotland and Ireland to Lexington

The 27-year-old business continues to serve the community
Ava Tallat-Kelpsa, General Assignment Staff Writer
March 24, 2025
Community members walk alongside Nelson Street in downtown Lexington. “Townie” can be used to refer to those living full-time in a college town, but it also carries negative connotations about education and social class.

Biases hide behind the term “Townie”

Many call Lexington home. Only some feel the weight of the label “townie”
Joshua Davidson, Local Staff Writer
March 10, 2025
A sign outside Tommy’s Arcade welcomes visitors. The arcade has served as a hangout spot for community members and W&L students since 2021.

Tommy’s Arcade looks to relocate

Owner Tommy Stuart will close the Nelson Street location this spring but is optimistic about the arcade’s future in a new spot
Amelia Lanier, General Assignment Staff Writer
March 10, 2025
The bike rack outside of Graham-Lees Hall is often full, students say.

Limited storage and infrastructure shape the biking experience in Lexington

While efforts to improve bikeability in Lexington continue to evolve, storage limitations and challenging terrain remain constant obstacles
Amelia Lanier, General Assignment Staff Writer
February 17, 2025
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