Twenty-five years ago, an editorial in this space (Jan. 22, 1987) pointed out that Virginia’s latest travel guide of places to visit included no attractions in Gloucester or Mathews counties.

That situation is much, much better now, with multiple listings on the state tourism website, www.virginia.org.

But, on the other hand …

One of the new promotions of Virginia’s tourism officials invites visitors “to go Old School” this summer by offering “road trip ideas that inspire nostalgic trips to small town Virginia.”

That sounds like us. We have scenic byways and a few general stores and lots of old-time scenery for visitors to enjoy. But once again, the state could come up with nothing to list.

That’s odd: Music Jams is one of the categories. It would seem that the Li’l Ole Opry at Donk’s Theater in Hudgins, which has brought first-class live entertainment to visitors since 1975, would be a natural attraction. Other possibilities, although nothing local made the list, include attractions listed under roadside wonders; wines, brews and spirits; and “old school eats.” Nuttall’s Country Store. at Ware Neck, old school since it was new in 1877, could fit several of these categories.

Somehow this area always seems to be in the shade when the state starts looking around for attractions. We urge our officials to contact the authorities and suggest some reasons to take a road trip to Gloucester and Mathews.