Features

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.

Green Guardians

Green Guardians

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...

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Beyond the Game

Beyond the Game

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...

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The Rise of Cozy Spaces

The Rise of Cozy Spaces

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...

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Local Treasures – Holiday Gifts from Area Artisans

Local Treasures – Holiday Gifts from Area Artisans

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...

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Recipes to Warm the Soul

Recipes to Warm the Soul

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...

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Flannery Buchanan

Flannery Buchanan

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...

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Lo Davis

Lo Davis

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...

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Chad Ratliff

Chad Ratliff

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...

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Lauren Riegl

Lauren Riegl

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...

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Liza Borches

Liza Borches

Driven by Values Liza Borches is proving that success in the automotive industry isn’t just about selling cars—it’s also about driving positive change. As the fourth-generation leader of Carter Myers Automotive, she has significantly expanded the company’s footprint...

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