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In brief 11/13/2024

University of Virginia students gathered on Grounds last week to protest climate change and strategize ways to protect reproductive, LGBTQ+, and workers’ rights. Photo via Dan Addison / UVA Communications.

Looking ahead 

In the days after President-elect Donald Trump’s decisive victory, Charlottesville progressive groups organized to process results, bolster community, and strategize.

For those focused on combating climate change, Trump’s promises to support the fossil fuel industry and pull out of the Paris Agreement have garnered concern. Dozens of University of Virginia students gathered with the Sunrise Movement, a national organization advocating for political action on employment and climate change, in a November 8 walkout. Leaders called Trump’s victory “a massive threat to our generation” in a press release the day before the protest.

Sunrise UVA also joined a wider call among Democrats for the party to rebuild trust with the working class. Exit polls show Trump resonated with larger numbers of voters without a college degree, as well as those concerned about the economy, among other groups.

“The wealth gap in our country is increasing, and working people cannot afford living essentials for themselves and their families,” said Kelsey Levine, Sunrise UVA leader and a UVA graduate student, in an email to C-VILLE. “In this election, the Democratic party moved toward the center when it needed to put forward policies with bold changes.”

Another student group, the UVA chapter of Young Democratic Socialists of America organized November 7 to strategize on protecting reproductive rights, the LGBTQ+ population, workers’ rights, and liberation movements across the globe. 

In the post-Roe era, the Harris campaign made abortion access a primary issue. It’s unclear what moves Trump, who shifted his abortion policy throughout his campaign, will make on the issue, although he has consistently said abortion rights decisions should fall to the states. 

“Now is the time to start building a collective future, because if anyone is going to do it, it has to be us,” YDSA posted in a written statement.

Del. Amy Laufer said the election results were “disappointing,” but “there is still work to do.” Photo by Eze Amos.

This position aligns with releases from both Albemarle County and Charlottesville Democratic committees. Charlottesville Dems hosted a November 8 potluck to “build the bonds that make us strong and resilient,” per an Instagram post. Albemarle Democrats offered three events hosted by Del. Amy Laufer, who represents the 55th District in the House of Delegates.

“The results … were disappointing, but there is still work to do,” Laufer wrote. “Let’s try to gear up for next year’s election cycle, as it is so important to keep Democrats in the House of Delegates and the State Senate.”

Never forget

The University of Virginia will honor Devin Chandler, Lavel Davis Jr., and D’Sean Perry on November 13, the second anniversary of the fatal shooting on Grounds, which resulted in their deaths and the injury of two more students. Community members are invited to join in remembrance at the UVA Chapel at 1:55pm, when the chapel bell will ring the first verse of “Amazing Grace,” followed by three chimes.

Change over

University of Virginia Vice Provost for Global Affairs Stephen Mull has begun his work leading the State Department transition between the Biden and Trump administrations. Mull was tapped for the job in late September, regardless of the outcome of the election, and started work on October 28. His assignment is expected to last through January 2025.

Naming rights

Residents have until November 15 to submit preliminary names for this year’s Downtown Mall Christmas tree. The tree will be lit at the Grand Illumination at the Ting Pavilion on December 6. Last year’s Christmas tree was named Spruce Willis, though some fans are campaigning for a return of the Oatmeal dynasty (for those unaware, see: c-ville.com/the-big-picture-4).

Last year’s Downtown Mall Christmas tree was named Spruce Willis.
Photo by Stephen Barling.
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In brief 11/06/2024

Elizabeth Irvin. Photo by Stephen Barling.

Culture of care

The Women’s Initiative received a grant of $50,000 from Sentara Health, according to an October 31 press release. The grant will support the organization’s culturally responsive mental health care offerings, including Sister Circle, Bienestar, and LGBTQ+ programs.

Founded in 2007, The Women’s Initiative is a Charlottes­ville-based nonprofit supporting women and others affected by gender-related trauma. In addition to traditional counseling and support groups, the WI also offers culturally responsive programming.

One such program, Sister Circle, focuses on supporting and building community for Black women and other BIPOC people. In addition to culturally focused counseling, Sister Circle hosts regular events for Chihamba West African dance, yoga, and writing.

“I am so grateful for the renewed investment from and long-time partnership with Sentara and their recognition of the vital need for culturally responsive mental health care,” said Elizabeth Irvin, executive director of The Women’s Initiative,
in the release. “Through our programs and their support, we continue to work to address health disparity, so that all members of our community have an opportunity to heal and thrive.”

For more information on The Women’s Initiative and its programming, visit thewomensinitiative.org.

Clean sweep

The U.S. Supreme Court allowed Virginia to strike roughly 1,600 voter registrations in a program that targeted noncitizens but actually removed several U.S. citizens from the rolls. The ruling came on October 30, less than a week before Election Day. The case could return to the court, but only after the election. There is no evidence of non-citizens voting in Virginia.

Up in the air

All eyes are on UVA men’s basketball this week as the team opens its season following former head coach Tony Bennett’s retirement. In the wake of Bennett’s announcement, Charlottesville native Chance Mallory decommitted and Jalen Warley confirmed his transfer. The team’s first game is at home on November 6 against Campbell State. Things will get tougher for the Hoos later in the month when they face No. 12 Tennessee on November 21. 

Making moves

Charlottesville Area Transit begins updated routes on Saturday, November 9, after years of community calls for more frequent and accessible service. Route 4, between Cherry Avenue and Harris Road, and Route 6, including Ridge Street and Prospect Avenue, will both see weekday buses running every 30 minutes from 6:30am to 7pm, with additional evening options. These changes stem from CAT’s 10-year strategic plan to improve the bus system. For more information on the route changes, visit charlottesville.gov.

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In brief 10/30/2024

Gov. Glenn Youngkin says he will appeal a recent lower court’s ruling to the Supreme Court. File photo.

Roll it back

On October 27, the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a lower court ruling ordering the Youngkin administration to add more than 1,500 Virginians back onto voter rolls. Both Gov. Glenn Youngkin and Attorney General Jason Miyares said they will appeal the case to the Supreme Court, calling the decision an attempt at undermining election integrity.

The decision comes on the heels of a Department of Justice suit alleging an August 7 executive order by Youngkin ordering the daily removal of voters identified as noncitizens by Department of Motor Vehicles records, violates a provision of the National Voter Registration Act of 1993. The legislation prohibits the systematic removal of voters from rolls within 90 days of federal elections.

District Court Judge Patricia Giles of Alexandria ordered the commonwealth to reinstate the voters on October 25. The Fourth Circuit not only upheld Giles’ decision, but declined a request from Miyares to stop enforcement of the order.

While Miyares argued the order would add noncitizens back to voter rolls, the circuit court panel echoed Giles’ determination that, “‘neither the Court nor the parties … know’ that the people ‘removed from’ the voter rolls under the challenged program ‘were, in fact, noncitizens,’ and that at least some ‘eligible citizens … have had their registrations canceled and were unaware that this was even so.’”

A review of court records by the Richmond Times Dispatch shows several legal voters had their names removed from rolls based on outdated or incorrect DMV records.

Group project

Charlottesville City Schools has partnered with Virginia Career Works on an effort to improve students’ career readiness and help fulfill future workforce needs, according to an October 23 press release.

As part of the collaboration, the district and workforce group plan to create programming for specific hiring sectors to create paths to employment, drawing inspiration from and expanding on existing initiatives at the Charlottesville Area Technical Education Center.

“The feedback from our industry partners has been invaluable to make sure that our students are prepared for careers,” said Stacey Heltz, principal of CATEC and career and technical education coordinator for CCS. “The partnership with VCW will expand the reach and depth of this advisory network.”  

CCS Superintendent Royal Gurley also highlighted the importance and potential widespread benefits of the collaboration. “By working closely with industry leaders, Charlottesville City Schools is securing a bright future,” he said, “not just for high school students, or the adults who take classes at CATEC, but also for the city as a whole.”

A Charlottesville City Schools and Virginia Career Works collaboration was inspired by initiatives at CATEC. Photo by Rob Garland Photography.

Walk this way

Darden Towe Park’s Free Bridge Lane will be closed to cars starting November 1 for a one-year trial period promoting walking, running, and biking. The pathway, located along the Rivanna River, serves as part of Albemarle County’s 2019 plan supplementing bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. Parking will still be available at the lot on the north end of the road.

In memoriam

Professor Emeritus Charles J. Goetz, an economist who taught at University of Virginia School of Law for more than 30 years, died October 16 at age 85. After earning his Ph.D. in economics at UVA in 1965, Goetz played a major role in expanding the influence of economics in the legal field. He is remembered by students and colleagues for both his groundbreaking work and generous spirit.

Economist and UVA law school professor Charles J. Goetz passed away on October 16. Photo via UVA Law/UVA Communications. 

Bed news

Charlottesville may add two new shelters after City Manager Sam Sanders recommended a $5.25 million budget with funding for the city’s rising homeless population. Projects planned in partnership with The Salvation Army would add 100 beds to the Ridge Street campus and a new 50-bed low-barrier option at the organization’s Cherry Avenue thrift store. Sanders also proposed adding public bathrooms downtown.

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In brief 10/23/2024

Photo via Matt Riley / UVA Athletics Communications.

Off court

Tony Bennett retired as head coach of the University of Virginia men’s basketball team after leading the program for 15 years.

UVA announced Bennett’s immediate retirement on October 17, shocking the Cavaliers faithful since it came just 20 days before the team starts its regular season and four months after the coach signed a contract extension that would have kept him at the university through 2030. For Bennett, the decision was made after months of deliberation and a growing discomfort with the changing world of college basketball.

“It’s not fair to these guys, and this institution that I love so much, to continue on when you’re not the right guy for the job,” a choked-up Bennett said during an October 18 press conference. “I’m a square peg in a round hole. That’s what it is.”

In his time at UVA, Bennett, the winningest coach in program history, led the Hoos to a 364-136 record, with two ACC Tournament titles, six ACC regular season championships, 10 NCAA tournament appearances, and a 2019 NCAA championship. The three-time national coach of the year was also named ACC coach of the year four times. Ten Virginia players were selected in the NBA Draft during Bennett’s tenure at the university.

Associate head coach Ron Sanchez was named interim head coach for the 2024-25 season. Sanchez, who led the University of North Carolina Charlotte men’s basketball team from 2018 to 2023, is no stranger to the program, having been on Bennett’s staff for 12 years, including three years at Washington State and nine years at UVA.

“I’m at peace,” Bennett said during the press conference. “When you know in your heart it’s time, it’s time.” 

Just the ticket

File photo.

After a 45-day warning period, Albemarle County began issuing citations on October 21 for motorists caught speeding in the Hydraulic Road school zone.

Drivers going 10 or more miles per hour over the speed limit are subject to a $100 fine, though the citations are not reported to the Department of Motor Vehicles. With the enforcement of citations, Albemarle County Police hope to see a decline in speeding by the Lambs Lane campus that includes Albemarle High, Journey Middle, and Greer Elementary.

Between September 3 and October 11, ACPD reviewed and issued 4,902 warnings, according to a release from the county.

“With the transition to full enforcement, we aim to see improvements in driver behavior, ensuring a safer environment for students, families, and staff as they travel to and from school,” the county said. “For school children and other vulnerable road users, drivers must stay alert and obey the posted speed limit. Driving too fast for certain conditions is one of the most prevalent factors contributing to traffic crashes.”

For more information on the speed cameras and citations, visit the Albemarle County website.

Not too much

Hometown rock group Dave Matthews Band was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in a Cleveland, Ohio, ceremony on Saturday, October 19. Other inductees included Cher, Ozzy Osbourne, Peter Frampton, and Mary J. Blige. Matthews followed up the event with a social media post recognizing the band’s beginnings in Charlottesville and thanking longtime manager Coran Capshaw. 

Photo by Tristan Williams.

Almost there

The final phase of Biscuit Run Park—a 1,190-acre state park off Scottsville Road—has begun. Heralded as Albemarle County’s largest park, Biscuit Run’s first phase has included the installation of the park’s eastern entrance off Route 20, a trailhead with 75 parking spots, and public restrooms. Construction crews are currently focused on the Route 20 entrance. Expect delays on Route 20 for the rest of the month.

Shooting death

Following what Charlottesville police have described as a “gang-related” shooting the night of October 19, one person is dead and another injured. Police were called to Rio Hill Apartments in the 1600 block of Rio Hill Drive around 8pm, where they found the deceased, 23-year-old Charlottesville resident Zerrion Eubanks-Warfield. “The incident involved multiple gunshots, with several vehicles and apartments struck,” police said in an October 20 statement.

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In brief 10/16/2024

Supplied photo.

Welcome home

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Charlottesville celebrated the area’s newest homeowner, Binta Rose, with a dedication ceremony on October 12. The four-bedroom house was built by Habitat in 2016, repurchased at market value, and renovated for the Rose family.

Rose, who works at the University of Virginia Student Health and Wellness Center, is a longtime Charlottesville resident. After the death of her son Rahmean Rose-Thurston in a motorcycle accident in 2020, Rose lost her rented home and moved in with family. Her sister, also a Habitat homeowner, encouraged her to apply to the program.

Moving forward with the purchase of the home was a difficult decision for Rose and her family, with the site of her son’s fatal accident close by. “Even when I didn’t think it was time for me to take [the house in the] Burnet [neighborhood], I think God said, ‘No Binta, it’s time for you now,’” she told Habitat ahead of the dedication. “God gave me the strength to pick me up. I feel like I could write a book about how I overcame so many obstacles in my life that tried to stop me or knock me down and I got back up.”

Get out the vote

The U.S. Department of Justice sued the state of Virginia on October 11 for violating the National Voter Registration Act. The suit is a response to an August 7 executive order by Gov. Glenn Youngkin that calls for daily updates to voter registration lists through comparison with Department of Motor Vehicles data identifying non-citizens. The DOJ suit alleges Youngkin’s EO violates the “quiet period” provision of the act, which prohibits systematic purging of voter rolls within 90 days of federal elections. Youngkin responded to the suit, calling it an attempt by the Biden-Harris administration to undermine election integrity.

Care package

Region Ten has received a one-time $3 million grant from the Youngkin administration, according to an October 14 press release. The funding is part of a larger Right Help, Right Now initiative investing in emergency room alternatives. The nonprofit plans to use the funds to expand services at its Crisis Receiving Center at the Region Ten Old Lynchburg Road campus.

’Tis the season

With Halloween around the corner, it’s not only spooky season, but flu season, too! The Blue Ridge Health District is offering free vaccinations on October 16 from 5 to 7pm at Charlottesville High School. Vaccines are available on a first-come, first-served basis for those ages 3 years old and up. More information about upcoming vaccination clinics can be found at vdh.virginia.gov/blue-ridge.

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In brief 10/09/2024

Staff photo.

Shifting gears

Charlottesville Area Transit will get an upgrade later this month, with several service changes going into effect on October 26.

The service enhancements, announced October 3, are the product of a years-long effort to improve the reliability and frequency of the CAT system. New schedules have been made for all routes to best serve needs based on current usage as measured by automatic passenger counters on buses.

On Route 4, which runs between Cherry Avenue and Harris Road, operations will increase to 30-minute frequency during the week between the peak hours of 6am and 7pm.

More changes are coming for Route 6, for which service will increase to 30-minute intervals on weekdays between 6:30am and 10:30pm and no longer include a stop at the University of Virginia hospital between downtown and Willoughby Square. By removing this detour, CAT hopes to significantly increase efficiency and reduce travel times along the route.

Riders can still access UVA Medical Center through other routes, including Route 4, Route 9, and the Free Trolley.

Beyond routing and frequency changes, CAT will now provide all drivers working eight-hour shifts two 10-minute breaks as part of the city’s collective bargaining agreement with the Amalgamated Transit Union.

For more information on the upcoming route changes and service improvements, visit charlottesville.gov.

Roadwork ahead

An entire section of the Blue Ridge Parkway washed away at Milepost 336.
Supplied photo.

Destruction from Hurricane Helene has closed the entire Blue Ridge Parkway indefinitely. The National Park Service and other authorities continue to assess the damage to the scenic route between Virginia and North Carolina.

While local portions of the parkway have sustained minimal damage, according to Nelson County authorities, all 469 miles of the route remain closed as the NPS completes its comprehensive assessment of the parkway. Virginia resources have been diverted to North Carolina, where wreckage is extensive and portions of the road have been completely washed away.

An October 5 update from NPS indicated damage assessments and debris clearage in Virginia are nearly complete, allowing the phased reopening of portions of the Blue Ridge Parkway in the commonwealth in the upcoming days and weeks. There is no estimate for the reopening of any part of the parkway in North Carolina, and no timeline or cost estimate for repairs.

To monitor the latest updates on the reopening of the Blue Ridge Parkway, visit nps.gov.

Pedestrian fatality

Charlottesville police have arrested 19-year-old Matthew Kozub of Louisa in connection with a fatal pedestrian crash. At approximately 7:25pm on October 3, Mamawa Simai, 64, was struck by a vehicle while crossing the intersection of Elliott Avenue and South First Street. Simai was transported to University of Virginia Medical Center, where she died from her injuries. Kozub was arrested at the scene on an outstanding assault warrant from Louisa County.

Fluid situation

The University of Virginia Medical Center has paused some elective surgeries amid a nationwide shortage of IV fluids. The effort to conserve existing supplies was prompted by the closure of a Baxter International plant in North Cove, North Carolina, due to damage from Hurricane Helene. Prior to its temporary closure, the facility was producing approximately 60 percent of all IV solutions for the United States.

File photo.

Hoos the winner

The University of Virginia football team celebrated a homecoming victory October 5, after an electric come-from-behind 24-14 win over Boston College. With a record of 4-1, this is the best start to a season for the Hoos since 2019. The next test for the Cavaliers comes on October 12 against Louisville, with a 3:30pm kickoff at Scott Stadium.

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In brief 10/02/2024

Marrisa Blair and then-fiance Marcus Martin attended Heather Heyer’s memorial service at The Paramount Theater. Photo by Rob Garland.

In memoriam

August 12 survivor Marissa Blair died on September 19 at the University of Virginia Hospital due to complications from pneumonia related to metastatic colon cancer. She was 35 years old.

Blair survived the August 2017 deadly car attack that killed her friend and co-worker Heather Heyer when her then-fiance Marcus Martin pushed her out of the path of the vehicle. In the Pulitzer Prize-winning photo by former Daily Progress reporter Ryan Kelly, Martin can be seen mid-air after being struck by the vehicle.

Following the attack, Blair continued her involvement in anti-racist activism, successfully suing Jason Kessler with eight other survivors for his involvement in organizing the Unite the Right rally.

“Marissa brought so much joy to her family, friends and everyone who knew or crossed paths with her,” reads a portion of the obituary shared by Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory. “She was a bright shining light with a true beauty inside and out and will be missed to a degree that words could never express.”

Blair’s service was held on September 28 in Lovingston, Virginia. In addition to flowers, the family requests people plant a memorial tree in her honor. Information on the memorial tree effort can be found in Blair’s obituary (obituaries.tharpfuneralhome.com/marissa-blair).

Cost of business

Charlottesville staple Eljo’s is for sale by Myles Thurston, who has owned the store for 50 years. If the
menswear business is not purchased by the end of the year, the iconic Barracks Road store will close its doors permanently.

Opened by Elliott and Joseph Hyman in 1950, Eljo’s demographic has shifted away from UVA students over the decades. Most of the store’s current clientele are from outside of Charlottesville, with half of Eljo’s sales now custom-ordered clothing.

Thurston became a partner in the business in 1974, eventually buying Eljo’s from the Hyman brothers in 1984.

“After more than 70 years of business, and more than 50 of them in our family, we have decided it is time to find a new caretaker for Charlottesville’s best custom-designed clothing options for our community’s leading businessmen and professionals,” reads a post from Thurston on Eljo’s website.

Anyone interested in purchasing the business and remaining inventory can contact Thurston directly.

File photo.

Phones down

Emergency and non-emergency phone lines were down for more than nine hours in Fluvanna County on September 28. The Fluvanna County Emergency Communications Center was notified of the interruption at approximately 1:45am, setting up temporary emergency and non-emergency numbers during the outage. Service to both lines was restored the same day at roughly 11:35am.

Underwater

Mint Springs Valley Park is closed following flooding from Hurricane Helene that caused significant damage to the roadway by the park’s entrance. Albemarle County Parks & Recreation shuttered the area indefinitely on September 29. The damage is in a different location than the culvert that burst in early August after Tropical Storm Debby, which closed the park for several days.

Photo via Albemarle County.

Fatal fire

A structure fire in Scottsville killed one person on September 27. Albemarle County Fire Rescue responded to a request for service at about 4:38am in the 4000 block of Jacobs Creek Drive, where crews found a heavily involved fire engulfing a single-wide trailer and spreading to a nearby vehicle. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene and had not been identified at press time. Authorities say the fire does not appear suspicious.

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In brief 09/25/2024

The sale of Carlton Mobile Home Park officially closed on September 20. Photo by Eze Amos.

Final sale

The sale of Carlton Mobile Home Park officially closed on September 20, preventing the displacement of hundreds of residents. Habitat for Humanity of Greater Charlottesville took over management of the community the same day.

With the finalization of the sale, Habitat and Piedmont Housing Alliance can move forward in their collaboration with residents of the affordable housing community—the Habitat Carlton Alliance. According to a joint release, HCA is forming a resident council that will “advise Habitat on property management decisions and serve as leaders with the Carlton Mobile Home Park community.”

Under conditions of the sale, CMHP must remain a mobile home park for at least three years. In the interim, the HCA is kicking off discussions with community members.

“The work starts now,” said Habitat President and CEO Dan Rosensweig. “We are sitting down one on one with each family to get to know them and to learn about their dreams and aspirations.”

On the trail

Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff will join University of Virginia law school students for a voter protection training on September 25. Emhoff’s visit to Charlottesville is his latest appearance for the Harris-Walz campaign in the lead up to Election Day, Tuesday, November 5. Early voting began in the commonwealth on September 20, and continues through November 2.

Barracks businesses

Three new businesses are coming to Barracks Road Shopping Center next year, following two recent openings at the complex, Monkee’s and Alumni Hall. Salon chain Drybar and shoe store Appalachian Running Company are expected to open their doors in early 2025, with pizzeria Emmy Squared coming in the spring.

Barracks Road Shopping Center. Photo by Stephen Barling.

Over and out

Construction of a pedestrian bridge across U.S. 29 will shift lanes on southbound Seminole Trail. Work on the pedestrian bridge began September 24 and is the latest in a series of planned Virginia Department of Transportation improvements in the area of U.S. 29 and Hydraulic Road. The bridge will be located near the intersection of U.S. 29 and Zan Road.

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In brief 09/11/2024

Image via Skyclad Aerial.

Bad medicine?

More than 100 faculty members employed by the University of Virginia Physicians Group called for the immediate removal of Craig Kent, CEO of UVA Health, and Melina Kibbe, Dean of the UVA School of Medicine, in a signed letter of no confidence on September 7.

The letter—signed by 128 faculty members and addressed to the Rector and Board of Visitors—alleges that Kent and Kibbe “have not only undermined but also directly attacked the values that inspired us to study, teach, and work at the University of Virginia School of Medicine and UVA Health.”

The letter further alleges that Kent and Kibbe have undermined physicians’ ability to prioritize patient safety and have created a negative environment for the faculty.

UVA President Jim Ryan has responded to the letter of no confidence, not only standing by Kent and Kibbe, but speaking against the methodology of the aggrieved faculty.

“The letter itself is daunting. There are many accusations. There are few details. Some of these accusations are fairly evident references to specific matters that we have already addressed or are actively working on,” said Ryan in a message to UVA Health faculty. He acknowledged the need to address new claims, but he indicated a need for due process and full investigation. “We will then take the appropriate steps based on what we find. Once the dust of this particular controversy settles, we will figure out how best to move forward as a community.”

Ryan’s response also highlighted that the 128 signees represent roughly 9 percent of the health system faculty, and that he has personally received messages of support for Kent and Kibbe from other faculty members.

Craig Kent and Melina Kibbe. Photos via UVA Communications.

Moving forward

Charlottesville City Schools commemorated the 65th anniversary of integration in local schools with a ribbon-cutting at the newly renamed Trailblazer Elementary School.

Formerly Venable Elementary, Trailblazer was one of the first integrated schools in Charlottesville. In 1958, Virginia Gov. Lindsay Almond Jr. closed both Venable and Lane High School rather than integrate the schools following a ruling by Judge John Paul. On September 5, 1959, Paul ordered the immediate transfer of 12 stude​​nts, now known as the Charlottesville 12, to Venable and Lane.

The Charlottesville 12 and their courageous role in integration are the inspiration for the elementary school’s new name.

“Students who desegregated Charlottesville City Schools in 1959 joined us to cut the ribbon on the newly renamed @TrailblazerElem this morning,” shared Charlottesville City Schools on X/Twitter. “We thank these trailblazers for their leadership and courage and for inspiring our current students to blaze their own trails today.”

“Education was important … it’s not about the color of your skin but the goodness and greatness that lies within,” said Charles Alexander, one of the Charlottesville 12, in an interview with CBS19. “I want [current students] to learn and blaze a new trail and become listeners, thinkers, and set the course for a better future for themselves.”

New neighbor

Effective September 9, Kellie Brown is Charlottesville’s Director of Neighborhood Development Services. Brown previously worked with the Arlington County Planning Division and has more than 15 years of experience in community planning. “I’m really excited to support the exciting work that the City of Charlottesville is doing to implement its comprehensive plan and new zoning ordinance,” she said in a city press release announcing her appointment. “My goal is to build on the community’s work over the last several years to chart a path for a sustainable and equitable future.” 

Federal attention

Two men have been indicted on federal conspiracy and kidnapping charges in connection with a January 8, 2023, fatal shooting in Belmont. Ricardo Franco-Ordaz and Jordan Perez, both of Texas, allegedly kidnapped and held multiple undocumented migrants for ransom at the U.S.-Mexico border in early 2023. A ransom exchange in Charlottesville’s Belmont neighborhood resulted in the death of another suspected kidnapper, Osvaldo Lopez-Hernandez. None of the suspected perpetrators or victims have any known ties to Charlottesville.

You don’t say

Despite calling in Virginia State Police on student protesters this May, the University of Virginia was number one in the latest college free speech rankings from the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression. As of press time, UVA has not dropped its University Judiciary Committee charges against several student protesters and has continued to withhold degrees from demonstrators who were arrested on May 4.

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In brief

Deep dish

Charlottesville resident Rachel Drame has been charged with arson of an unoccupied structure in connection with an August 11 fire at Vocelli Pizza.

The fire caused approximately $30,000 in damage to the pizzeria, and investigators with the Albemarle County Fire Marshal office quickly determined the blaze was suspicious after first responders found the storefront and nearby trash cans aflame. If convicted of the class four felony, Drame faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000.

While she was originally arrested the day of the fire on charges of public intoxication, Drame was released on recognizance, according to the Virginia Court Case Information System. She was then arrested in connection with the arson on August 15 and is being held without bond at Albemarle Charlottesville Regional Jail.

Separate hearings have been set for the public intoxication and arson charges, and no connection between the offenses has been made as of press time. Drame’s next appearance in connection with the pizzeria fire is scheduled for 10:30am on August 28.

According to a post on the pizzeria’s Facebook, Vocelli Pizza will remain closed until repairs are completed. A timeline for reopening has not yet been announced.

Weekend availability

The Emergency Food Network is now open
on Saturdays, according to an August 16 press release.

Open since 1973, EFN provides free food to Charlottesville and Albemarle residents. Those in need can contact the nonprofit at 979-9180 between 9am and noon on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday for same-day food pick up at 900 Harris St. from 1:30 to 3:30pm.

“Since the expiration of increased pandemic SNAP benefits, demand for our services has been at capacity and we knew we needed to do more,” said EFN Board Chair Miette Michie. “A weekend day may be more convenient for those in need who are working weekday hours.”

Beyond food, EFN also provides personal hygiene products and cleaning supplies on request. The nonprofit does not require any financial information from those in need to receive donations.

For more about EFN, visit emergencyfoodnetwork.org.

Carjacking arrests

Charlottesville City Police have arrested two people in connection with a carjacking that occurred on August 14. The incident took place at approximately 10:08pm in the area of 7 ½ and Pine streets, with initial reports indicating a firearm was involved. Officers located the stolen vehicle, which was occupied by multiple people, the next morning in the 600 block of Cherry Avenue. A local juvenile and an 18-year-old from Chester County were arrested after attempting to flee the vehicle. Officers also recovered a replica firearm during the investigation. CPD asks that anyone with information contact Crime Stoppers at 977-4000.

Knighthood

In addition to a new name, Buford Middle School (soon to be Charlottesville Middle School) is getting a new mascot next fall, according to an August 16 press release from Charlottesville City Schools. After conducting two community surveys, CCS selected the Young Knights as the new mascot. Both the mascot and new name officially go into effect in fall of 2025.

Move-in madness

The University of Virginia’s move-in is in full-swing this week, with the bulk of first-year students set to arrive on August 22 and 23. Locals looking to dodge the chaos should avoid the UVA area, especially Alderman and McCormick roads. Upperclassmen move-in continues throughout the weekend, so make sure to finish any grocery store runs before Thursday if you want to avoid the out-of-town and student traffic.