Albemarle Magazine’s ‘Features’ section highlights the history, culture, and notable people of Central Virginia. It offers in-depth articles that explore the region’s rich heritage, local traditions, and influential figures, providing readers with engaging stories that capture the essence of the area.
From the butterflies of a proposal to the quiet ways we say “I love you” years later, relationships are built on moments both big and small. In this story, we follow the life cycle of love—the engagement, the wedding day, and getaways to keep the spark alive long...
Cover photo by Daniel White Protecting Albemarle’s Land, Water, and Wildlife From the Blue Ridge Mountains and the edge of Shenandoah National Park to the Rivanna River watershed, Albemarle County contains plenty of natural wonder and is home to many outdoor...
Chris Long Tackles Water Insecurity and Educational Equity Photos courtesy of the Chris Long Foundation If Chris Long’s story had ended with his retirement from the NFL in 2018, it would still be remarkable on its own. During a distinguished 11-year NFL career, Long...
By: Catherine Purple Cherry, AIA, LEED-AP, Founder and Principal of Purple Cherry Architects In recent years, we have seen a shift toward the creation of cozy, intimate spaces that feel like secret retreats within one’s own residence. As the world becomes increasingly...
This holiday season, celebrate the art of giving with experiences and handcrafted treasures from some of Charlottesville’s finest local artisans, each gift infused with quality, heart, and a personal story. Allens Scottish Shortbread allensscottishshortbread.com...
Comfort food favorites from local chefs From hearty Blue Crab and Corn Chowder to flavorful Haitian Spaghetti and classic Coq au Vin and savory Vegan Chutney, these recipes bring the warmth of home cooking to your table with a touch of local flair. “For my favorite...
Where the Bluebird Sings When Flannery Buchanan partnered with Chelsea Powers to open Bluebird & Company in Crozet, it became much more than a shop for books and boutique clothing. Buchanan, a former librarian and mother of four, says that the store is an...
Rewriting the Playbook For Lo Davis, the world of name, image, and likeness (NIL) isn’t just about branding and endorsements—it’s about building character, fostering connections, and preparing student-athletes for life after sports. As executive director of Cav...
Classroom Revolutionary What if school weren’t just about grades, tests, and rigid schedules? At Community Lab School, Chad Ratliff is turning that question into a revolutionary reality. The school’s principal since 2017, Ratliff is leading the charge in designing a...
Beyond Bikes Lauren Riegl, the executive director of Charlottesville Community Bikes, sees bicycles as much more than a mode of transportation. They’re a lifeline, a tool for empowerment, and a way to build a more equitable Charlottesville. Her journey to leading the...