Forest Lakes: Community, Convenience, Comfort

By Ken Wilson – When Frank Kessler and the Kessler Group began construction on what was to be the largest planned unit development in Albemarle County in 1989, their goal was to create the “ultimate living community that would allow families to raise their children in a close-knit environment where residents enjoyed well-planned amenities.” Almost […]

Rain Gardens: A Lovely Way to Protect the Planet

By Marilyn Pribus – “Each time it rains, pollutants such as nitrogen, phosphorus, zinc, and even lead flow directly into our sewers and waterways,” laments horticulturist Karyn Smith of Stanardsville. Since much of the water in our area is drawn from the Rivanna River watershed which encompasses Charlottesville, all of Albemarle County and parts of […]

Sustained Growth Predicted for Area’s Commercial Real Estate

By Celeste M. Smucker – Commercial real estate in Charlottesville and the Valley (including shops, office buildings, apartment complexes, manufacturing plants, subdivisions and warehouses) continues its impressive growth with more of the same predicted for 2019. And so long as families continue to visit and move here for the natural beauty, outdoor activities, job opportunities, […]

How to Plan the Best Holiday Visits

By Marilyn Pribus– It’s right there on the calendar. Company’s coming for the holidays. Whether it’s long-time friends, your child’s college roommate or a flock of in-laws, it’s not too early to start prepping. Remember, happy visits don’t just happen. Plan ahead because you (and your guests) will be more relaxed when you are well […]

Meet Local Artisans On the 24th Annual Artisans Studio Tour

By Marilyn Pribus – One of the most appealing quality-of-life aspects of Central Virginia is our vibrant art scene thanks to artisans who populate studios in both Charlottesville and the nearby, scenic Blue Ridge countryside. “We have an extraordinary group of talented people working sometimes in obscurity,” declares Joe Samuels who, with his wife Owie, […]

Close-In Fluvanna is Charming and Affordable

By Marilyn Pribus – When Eric Dahl, his wife, Jill, and their sons moved north from Florida, it’s no coincidence they bought a home at Lake Monticello where his two brothers already lived. Dahl is now Fluvanna’s Deputy County Administrator/Finance Director. “Jill and I really like the nature aspects of Fluvanna rather than the hustle […]