The June 2015 issue of Virginia Living puts a new spin on classic traditions. We take an in-depth look at horse racing in Virginia and the recent closure of Colonial Downs. With the industry currently in flux, what does the future hold for one of Virginia s most storied traditions? We also explore the traditions of summer camp in the Commonwealth; though some have changed, many others remain delightfully the same. We offer 13 inspired takes on afternoon tea, adding a modern edge to a classic ritual. Also, the southern exposure of the elegant Bramblewood Farm, perfect peonies at Pharsalia and a new life for Arlie resort in Warrenton. We travel to the fjords and mountains of Norway with a band of modern-day vikings, and we meet Virginia s Poet Laureate Ron Smith, who readily accepts the task of exposing modern audiences to one of the world s oldest art forms. Plus, Williamsburg boat maker Ben Gwaltney-Thacker, the newly renovated Inn at Wise and Edith Bolling Wilson Hotel, the Byrd theater and more.