Will Hollymead Get Mixed-Use?

Development continues...

Northern Albemarle county boasts Hollymead Town Center at the intersection of Route 29 and Proffitt Road, and the growth in mixed use of another phase with residential and commercial.

The county is watching carefully and expects the proffers that come with development.

The good news is 20% of the project will be affordable housing, which our area needs desperately.

This shopping center has some fabulous views, so it's a delight to shop here with several great stores including my favorites: Bonefish Grill (I believe the best seafood in town as well as magnificant first class service always), Maggie Moos Ice Cream (a new experience for ice cream), Harris Teeter (call or fax your order in and they'll bring it to your car... Wow, that's service), TGIF (great burgers and my favorite salad with chicken), Panera's Bread (everything is great: breakfast, lunch or dinner), Target (a nice, clean store with almost everything including a pharmacy), Kirklands (a fun store with unique household items), and of course Starbucks. These stores are just a sampling of what you'll find.



Here's a link to a map of Hollymead Town Center:

http://www.regencycenters.com/propertydocs/000751-sp.pdf

Does anyone else have a favorite store at Hollymead Town Center? What would you like to see in the new commercial section? Please post a comment.

There are townhomes being built also at the rear of Hollymead Town Center. If you would like more info on them, I'd be glad to furnish information. Email me at Kehoe@move2va.com or call (434) 980-2860.

You can read more about the new mixed-use plans in this article from the "Cville Weekly":

http://c-ville.com/index.php?cat=141404064435450&ShowArticle_ID=11103007074530588

Here's another article from the "Daily Progress":

http://www.dailyprogress.com/servlet/Satellite?pagename=CDP%2FMGArticle%2FCDP_BasicArticle&c=MGArticle&cid=1173352125595&path=!news

Karen
www.move2va.com

Events in Charlottesville & Central Virginia This Weekend (August 10-12)

Tuesday-Saturday, August 7-11
AUGUSTA COUNTY FAIR
Livestock, concerts, rides, tractor pulls, a demolition derby, a rodeo and more at this fun country fair! Fishersville, VA. Directions: Augusta Expoland. I-64 to exit 91, South Rt 608, right on Expo Rd.. approx. noon - 11pm (call for each specific day's hours). $5 for everyone except children 6 and under free. All ages welcome. Email: acfair@ntelos.net. For details, please click this link. For more info call: 540-245-5627.

Friday, August 10
FRIDAYS AFTER FIVE
The Terri Allard Band; FREE; http://www.terriallard.com; show begins at 5:30pm, all ages welcome. Terri Allard has an extraordinary talent for capturing the human spirit in her songs. With power-packed vocals and infectious energy she has the uncanny ability of moving her audiences to pin-drop silence. The Virginia based singer-songwriter has taken her rootsy blend of folk, country, and acoustic pop to countless clubs, coffeehouses and festivals throughout the U.S. Directions: Charlottesville Pavilion, on the east end of the Downtown Mall.

Friday-Saturday, August 10-11
SOUND OF MUSIC
Ash Lawn Opera Festival. Maria, an uncertain postulant at the nearby abbey, goes to the home of Captain von Trapp as governess to his seven motherless children. Though the bereaved captain is seeing the wealthy Elsa Schraeder, he and Maria soon find themselves in love with each other. With the Nazi takeover of Austria imminent, Maria devises a daring scheme for the family's escape through the hills – to the sound of music. Ash Lawn-Highland. Doors open at 6pm. Shows begin at 8pm. $16-$26. All ages welcome. Email: info@ashlawnopera.org. For details, please click this link. For more info call: 434/979-0122.

Friday, August 10
MUSICAL CELEBRATION AT 214 COMMUNITY ARTS CENTER
The 214 Community Arts Center partners and volunteers present an evening of great musical variety in celebration of the first year of operation. 8pm, suggested donation $10 at the door. 214 Rugby Road. 434/409-9631.

Saturday, August 11
PANCAKE BREAKFAST & FUNDRAISER AT APPLEBEES
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM. Please join the Student National Medical Association of the University of Virginia for a delicious pancake & sausage breakfast fundraiser and benefit at the Applebee’s Restaurant, Bar, and Grill located at 571 Branchlands Blvd in Charlottesville. The cost of breakfast is FREE; donations will be accepted. There will also be raffle prizes to be given away. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the National Bone Marrow Foundation. Come out and join us for some food, family, and fun!

Saturday, August 11
CATS PAJAMA PARTY
At our cats pajama party kids can put on their pajamas and come get a free haircut, dress up, sing some Karaoke with Jeff, the DJ to Go, and visit with the many kittens and cats that need new homes. Adoption specials: adult cats $10; kittens $45. Put on your pajamas and come find someone who loves you at the Charlottesville-Albemarle SPCA. Noon-6pm. Berkmar Drive. 434/973-5959.

Saturday, August 11
OLD MILLS TRAIL ADVENTURE HIKE
Charlottesville City Parks and Albemarle County Parks.Guided hiking adventure from Lewis and Clark Exploratory Center at Darden Towe Park into unknown territory. Family adventurers welcome! Darden Towe Park. 8:30am. $free. All ages welcome. Contact: Chris Gensic. Email: gensic@charlottesville.org. For details, please click this link. For more info call: 434/970-3656.

Saturday, August 11
PLAYING AT THE PARK WITH BELMONT BAPTIST CHURCH
Families are invited to come play at Belmont Park in Charlottesville. There will be games (that include the sprinkler park), crafts, stories, songs, snacks, and lots of fun! 9:30 to 11:30 am. $free. All ages welcome. Bring a towel! Contact: Melanie Anderson. Email: gma2anderson@earthlink.net. For more info call: 434/977-1739.

Saturday, August 11
SUMMER SATURDAYS: THE FROG PRINCE
In Bob Brown's astounding Storybook Series, the story unfolds in front of the pages of a giant pop-up storybook. As each scene ends, the enormous pages turn to reveal the next exciting development in this hilarious adaptation of a battle of wits between a spoiled-brat princess and a clever frog. Ash Lawn-Highland. Directions: Ash Lawn-Highland is located near I-64 and Route 250, 2.5 miles past Monticello on Route 53. 11am. $5 available at the door. All ages welcome. Email: info@ashlawnopera.org. For details, please click this link. For more info call: 434/293-4500.

Saturday, August 11
THE CARDINAL POINT SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
Cardinal Point Vineyard and Winery. Live music at the winery. Proceeds benefit a local charity. $10 admission gets you a wine glass and great live music, plus that extra “feel-good” for making a donation to a worthy cause. Directions: I-64W, exit 107. Left on Rt.250W for 4.7 miles. Left onto Rt. 151S for 2.4 miles. Left onto Rt. 638 (Avon Road) for .9 miles. Left onto Rt. 636 (Batesville Road) for .7 miles. Cardinal Point Winery is on your right. 4 to 8pm. $10. Contact: Sarah. Email: contact@cardinalpointwinery.com. For details, please click this link. For more info call: 540-456-8400.

Saturday, August 11
MA'AT ENSEMBLE: "THE BREATH OF QUICKSILVER DREAMS"
Ma'at Ensemble's premier benefit performance. Come be a part of the exchange between performer and audience that transcends the dance from the earth into the ethereal, moving all who witness it to unique heights for one ephemeral moment that will never come again. 7:30pm, $20/adults, $15/students. Play On! Theater 983 Second St. in the Ix building. 434/227-7592.

Sunday, August 12
EVENING OF BLUEGRASS AT GRAVES MOUNTAIN
Graves Mountain Lodge. Featuring the family band that's sweeping the nation, Cherryholmes. Also featuring: Dark Hollow Blue Grass band and Jackass Flats. Graves Mountain Famous Foods will be available with Rib-eye Steak Dinner with French Fries, Cole Slaw, Green Beans, & Baked Apples for $15. PLUS Bar-B-Que, Wing Dings, Hot Dogs, Ice Cream & Funnel Cakes. Graves Mountain Lodge. Directions: 29N to Rt 231 in Madison, go 5 miles to Banco and turn left on rt. 670 and drive 4 miles to the Lodge. 4pm. $15. All ages welcome. Email: info@gravesmountain.com. For details, please click this link. For more info call: 540-923-4231.

Sunday, August 12
MEET THE ARTIST: GARNER TAKAHASHI-MORRIS
The Thomas Jefferson Memorial Church opens an exhibition of mixed-media collages by Garner Takahashi-Morris, which will remain on view through September 2. Meet the artist at an opening reception today at 11am. 717 Rugby Road, Charlottesville. 434/293-8179.

Sunday, August 12
LA BOHEME
Ash Lawn Opera Festival.In an unheated garret in the Latin Quarter of Paris a hundred years ago, a poet, a painter, a musician, and a philosopher live their dramatic lives, shivering and hungry when times are tough, but flamboyantly happy, generous, and romantic when fortune favors them. Their laughter fills the streets and sidewalk cafés of the Left Bank. The riveting story of the volatile, struggling lovers, Rodolfo and Mimi, bursts forth with operatic passion. Ash Lawn-Highland. Doors open at 6 PM. Shows begin at 8pm. $16-$26. All ages welcome. For details, please click this link. For more info call: 434/979-0122.

Sunday, August 12
ROW FOR THE GOLD
8th annual Row for the Gold canoe race event raises money for Special Olympics Virginia. Sign-ups for teams are still accepted for this year's event. If you would like to participate, you can take part in many ways. You can form a team, donate prizes, or volunteer your time to help with the event. Together we can make a difference for Special Olympics Virginia. elkton to shenandoah. 2 to 6pm. All ages welcome. Contact: Kelly Truxell. Email: row4thegold@ntelos.net. For details, please click this link. For more info call: 540-290-2333.

Sunday, August 12
WINGED WONDERS: SUMMER BUTTERFLIES
Learn to identify Ivy Creek’s butterflies on a walk with Mike Scott at the Ivy Creek Natural Area. Mike will lead a brief identification workshop before the walk. Meet in the Education Building. Ivy Creek Natural Area. Directions: Earlysville Road/Route 743. 1pm. $free. All ages welcome. For details, please click this link. For more info call: 434/973-7772.

Have a fun weekend!
Karen
www.move2va.com

Buy A Blizzard From DQ Thursday 8/9/07 To Help Kids

Indulging your sweet tooth can be a rewarding experience. Tomorrow, Thursday, August 9, your personal indulgence can become a treat for your whole community!

Improve the lives of sick and injured children by visiting Dairy Queen tomorrow and buying any Blizzard Treat of your choice. Proceeds from every Blizzard purchased will help children at our local Children's Miracle Network hospital, UVA Children's Hospital (http://www.healthsystem.virginia.edu/internet/pediatrics/).
Thank you for your participation in this worthy fundraiser.

Visit www.MiracleTreatDay.com to find a participating DQ location or make an online donation.

My company donates a portion of all earnings to the Children's Miracle Network. It is a very special organization that does so much to help sick children in our own community, as well as around the nation.

Karen
www.move2va.com

New Big Box Shopping Center Coming To Charlottesville?

More shopping may be coming near the downtown area of Charlottesville, close to the Holiday Inn South.



In my opinion this shopping center is very much needed and is in a great location, just off the interstate. Development is rapidly advancing on this side of town, and once Biscuit Run is built, it will be a popular shopping center, used by many of the residents nearby.

It will be great to have a Home Depot, another source for home improvement products, along with Lowes on Route 29.

Personally, I wish a Costco would come to Charlottesville!

I agree with the Planning Commission that we need this development. Placing too many constraints may force them to choose anoother location. The stores and developers need to make a profit as well. If half of the store isn't used, they will not prosper. This is Charlottesville, not northern Virginia, nor Manhatten, so let's keep things in perspective.

Welcome to our latest, greatest shopping center.

Please developers, leave us some trees as well.

Read more in this article from the "Cville Weekly":

http://c-ville.com/index.php?cat=141404064435450&ShowArticle_ID=11103007074463083

Comments anybody?

Karen
http://www.move2va.com/

Proposed Deerfield Village center in Greene County Faces Resistance

Greene county is growing at a very rapid rate with both commercial (Wal-Mart Super Center) and new subdivisions on both sides of Route 29.

Another developer has stepped up to propose Deerfield Village, a commercial development as well as 127 village homes. Residents met and voiced opposition to the village homes. Now the developer has added items to his proffer to make it more attractive to the residents as well as Greene County.

Read more in this article "Concerns raised over proposed Center", from Greene-News.com:

http://www.greene-news.com/news2.shtml

In my opinion, it is fine to grow but you must be cognizant of growth, such as schools, roads, traffic and more. Growth is imminent, but we must plan very carefully. Once all our land is gone to development, our rural areas and beautiful towns will never be the same. So growth with caution and planning should be our motto.

What are your thoughts? Please post a comment.

Karen

www.move2va.com

The Secret To Success

”The secret to success is to do the common things uncommonly well.”

--John D. Rockefeller, Jr.

My logo is “The Key To Your Real Estate Success” and this quote by Rockefeller is so true. That’s why I guarantee excellence to all my buyers and sellers and anything I do. If you are not satisfied with me as your realtor, fire me just like Donald Trump.

Success should be in your every thought, doing things the right way and always going the extra mile. You only go around once, and so why not do it the right way.

Success To Everyone!

Please share your comments.

Karen
www.move2va.com

Advance Mills Temporary Bridge To Be Built

Earlysville residents and others will certainly welcome the addition of a temporary bridge. This will relieve the stress of having to go miles out of the way to get to their residences and work places. Instead of installing a new bridge which would mean waiting years, the temporary bridge will be installed in 6 months.

Read more at the "Daily Progress":

http://www.dailyprogress.com/servlet/Satellite?pagename=CDP%2FMGArticle%2FCDP_BasicArticle&c=MGArticle&cid=1173352229538&path=!news

I'm sure all of us are concerned about bridges considering the fatal tragedy in Minnesota. Here's a memorial video from YouTube:


Click this link to view a video from CNN that shows the bridge collapsing:

http://www.cnn.com/2007/US/08/02/bridge.structure/index.html#cnnSTCVideo

The bridge that collapsed in Minnesota was a deck steel truss bridge. Virginia has a total of 12,742 bridges, and of those 2,862 (22%) have been deemed "deficient or obsolete" by officials (most of these were in northern Virginia).

Here's an article from CNN:

http://www.cnn.com/2007/US/08/02/bridge.structure/index.html#cnnSTCText

Please post your comments.

Karen
http://www.move2va.com/

National Ground Intelligence Center Expansion

The NGIC expansion seems to be politically laced. In my opinion it is good for our community. But we must look at all angles of the expansion and make sure the community, as well as the developer and the government are all receiving a fair and equitable share of what's good for our fine community. The expansion will bring in many northern Virginia families to our community. We will need to have housing for all of those individuals. They will be using our schools as well, so the tax base is very important.

Read more at the "Daily Progress":

http://www.dailyprogress.com/servlet/Satellite?pagename=CDP/MGArticle/CDP_BasicArticle&c=MGArticle&cid=1173352243537&path

Here's an article from NBC 29:

http://www.nbc29.com/Global/story.asp?s=6796376

NGIC Web Site: http://avenue.org/ngic/index.shtml

What do you think about the NGIC expansion? Please post your thoughts.

Karen
www.move2va.com

Mortgage rates fell again this week to 6.71%

Mortgage rates fell a bit this week, but not as much as Treasury yields fell. Read more in BankRate.com's "Interest Rate Roundup":

http://www.bankrate.com/brm/news/bank/Aug0207_interest_rate_roundupa1.asp?s=2#tab

Stay in touch with your lender. I have a list of lenders that I recommend, who I've worked with for years. I'll be glad to send it to you if you'd like. Email me at kehoe@move2va.com or call 1-800-818-7629.

Karen
www.move2av.com

Featured Home - Large Brick Home in Charlottesville, Room For All With 4 Levels

• Just Listed!
  
• Room for all on 4 levels
  
• Incredible gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, maple cabinets, a treat to cook in!
  
• Large living room and dining room
  
• Escape to every floor for something different
  
• Fabulous yard with slate patio
  

If you have questions about this home or any other home in central Virginia, please email me at kehoe@move2va.com or call me 1-800-818-7629.

Karen
http://www.move2va.com/

Belvedere - The First Inter-Active Neighborhood In Central Virginia!

Belvedere is the latest and greatest in building is green, and it's coming to Charlottesville! Save on utilities, be environmentally friendly, and be a part of the new age in building. If you'd like more information on building green, email me at kehoe@move2va.com. Please post comments and questions as well.

Belvedere is the First Neighborhood in Central Virginia Accepted into New LEED for Neighborhood Development Pilot Program

-- Principles of Smart Growth, Urbanism, and Green Building Showcased in Stonehaus’ Inter-Active Neighborhood --

Charlottesville, VA – July 30, 2007 − Stonehaus, a premier full-service real estate development company in Central Virginia, announced today that its Inter-Active Neighborhood located in Charlottesville, Belvedere, has been accepted into the LEED® for Neighborhood Development Pilot Program, which is being conducted by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Belvedere is the first neighborhood in Central Virginia to participate in this new LEED program, which has developed the highest benchmark system for environmentally responsible and sustainable development.

Located on 207 acres off of Rio Road East in Albemarle County and close to downtown Charlottesville, Virginia, Belvedere will be a mixed-use neighborhood comprised of more than 400 Energy Star* and EarthCraft** certified homes, neighborhood retail space, green office buildings, loft apartments, and a civic core. Belvedere’s Inter-Active Neighborhood design reflects three key elements: showing a commitment to nature and sustainability, encouraging social interaction, and embracing healthy lifestyles.

“We are thrilled to be part of the LEED for Neighborhood Development Pilot Program. From the outset, Belvedere was not just about building green homes, but designing an entire neighborhood that supports a vibrant, interactive, healthy community based on sustainability. Receiving LEED certification for an entire neighborhood will be a challenge, but one that Stonehaus is ready and willing to meet for the residents of Charlottesville and Central Virginia,” said Chris Schooley, Director of Development at Stonehaus.

The LEED for Neighborhood Development rating system integrates the principles of smart growth, urbanism, and green building into the first national rating system for neighborhood design. The rating system will be a tool to help planners and developers create communities that not only protect the environment, but also address important public health issues such as physical activity, traffic accidents, respiratory illnesses, and affordable housing.

“Communities such as Belvedere can play a tremendous role in community development and serve as an example for other developments,” said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO & Founding Chair, U.S. Green Building Council. “LEED for Neighborhood Development is designed to recognize and certify neighborhoods, such as Belvedere, that encourage a healthier lifestyle by placing services, workplaces and schools within walking distance, provide attractive and safe pedestrian paths, and create neighborhoods in a smarter, healthier, more sustainable manner.”

LEED for Neighborhood Development is a collaboration between the U.S. Green Building Council, the Congress for the New Urbanism (CNU), and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). The rating system will evaluate communities on criteria related to smart location and linkage to the community at large; neighborhood pattern and design; and green construction and technology. LEED certification provides independent, third-party verification that a development's location and design meet accepted high standards for environmentally responsible, sustainable, development.

The pilot program is expected to conclude in 2008. Based on feedback gathered during the pilot, the rating system will be revised to improve its effectiveness and applicability to the marketplace. The revised rating system will then be balloted according to USGBC's consensus process and undergo approval by CNU and NRDC.

According to Cass Kawecki, Director of Sales and Marketing for Stonehaus, Belvedere’s Inter-Active Neighborhood will achieve its goals of sustainability, encouraging social interaction and supporting healthy lifestyles through features that include:

Sustainability

• Energy Star and EarthCraft certification for all homes,
• LEED*** certification for Civic Core, office buildings and overall neighborhood design,
• Stormwater management incorporating on-site biofiltration,
• Preserved areas that showcase native trees, plants, and flowers,
• Walkable destinations within the neighborhood,
• Low-flow plumbing fixtures and rainwater harvesting, and
• Infrastructure to support convenient recycling throughout the community.

Social Interaction

• Town Center with local shops within walking distance, an indoor/outdoor amphitheater for community events and local school and swimming/tennis facilities,
• Open space for recreation, including safe and convenient access for kids to trails, pocket parks, a dog park, and a village green,
• A formal and informal network of hiking and biking trails

Healthy Lifestyles

• An organic farm organized in accord with the Community-Supported-Agriculture (CSA) model,
• A broad range of programs that encourage wellness organized by the Belvedere Wellness Coordinator,
• Commitment to the arts, such as Art in Place and Saturdays after Seven (SAS) events,
• Healthy indoor air quality for all residences through high-performance mechanical ventilation, low-VOC and no-VOC finishes and adhesives, and flooring options that meet the American Lung Association Health House standards.

About the U.S. Green Building Council

The U.S. Green Building Council is the nation's leading non-profit composed of corporations, builders, universities, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations working together to transform the way buildings are designed, built and operated. Green buildings are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work. Since its founding in 1993, the Council has grown to more than 10,500 member companies and organizations, a 90-person professional staff, a broad portfolio of LEED® green building products and services, the industry's popular Greenbuild International Conference and Expo (http://www.greenbuildexpo.org/) and a network of over 70 local chapters, affiliates and organizing groups. For more information about the LEED for Neighborhood Development program, visit http://www.usgbc.org/.

About LEED

The LEED® Green Building Rating System is a voluntary third party rating system where credits are earned for satisfying specified green building criteria. Projects are evaluated within six environmental categories: Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Energy and Atmosphere, Materials and Resources, and Indoor Environmental Quality. Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum levels of green building certification are awarded based on the total credits earned. LEED has been adopted nationwide by federal agencies, state and local governments, and interested private companies as the industry standard of measurement for green building.

About Belvedere

Stonehaus is developing the first Inter-Active Neighborhood in Central Virginia. Located in Charlottesville, Virginia, Belvedere applies its Inter-Active Neighborhood design and development platform to create a new kind of community reflecting three key components: creating a genuine sense of community that sustains social interaction, promotes healthy lifestyles and shows respect and a commitment to nature, sustainability and local history. For more information about Belvedere, visit http://www.belvedereneighborhood.com/.

*ENERGY STAR is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy helping us all save money and protect the environment through energy efficient products and practices.

**EarthCraft is a green building program that serves as a blueprint for healthy, comfortable homes that reduce utility bills and protect the environment. EarthCraft House is a partnership between the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association, Southface, government and industry partners.

For more information contact:
Caroline March-Long
Stonehaus/Belvedere Development
434-295-5938 – office
Caroline@FourLeafPR.com

=====================================================

Karen
http://www.move2va.com/

Events in Charlottesville & Central Virginia This Weekend (August 3-5)

Tuesday-Sunday, July 31-Aug. 5
ALBEMARLE COUNTY FAIR
Thursday 4pm-11pm; Friday 4pm-11pm; Saturday 10am-11 pm; Sunday 1pm-6pm. There will be a lot of fun happening this year at our very own local fair that will feature many popular bands, games, livestock, exhibits and the ever popular array of fun contests for husband calling, watermelon seed spitting, bubble gum blowing, hot dog eating, frog/toad jumping, turkey calling, cross-cut sawing and of course the popular fiddling. The AlbemarleFamily Pet Contest is on Saturday at 10:30am. $6 for adults, $2 for childred 6-12, children under 6 are free. Email: mailto:albemarlecountyfair@earthlink.net?subject=AlbemarleFamily For more info: http://www.albemarlecountyfair.com/ On Plank Road in North Garden, south of Charlottesville. Directions: Take Route 29 South toward Lynchburg. Go approximately 8 miles on 29 South. Take a right on Plank Road (SR 692). You will see signs for the Fair. The fair is about 1/4 mile on the right on Plank Road.

Click this link to watch a news video about the Albemarle County Fair from WCAV:

http://ww2.wcav.tv/global/video/popup/pop_player.asp?ClipID1=1631561&h1=Albemarle%20County%20Fair%20Kicks%20Off&vt1=v&at1=Station2&d1=99200&LaunchPageAdTag=Station2&fvCatNo=&backgroundImageURL=&activePane=info&playerVersion=9&hostPageUrl=http%3A//www.charlottesvillenewsplex.tv/home/headlines/8840902.html&rnd=66538710


Friday-Saturday, August 3-4
LOUISA COUNTY AGRICULTURAL FAIR
Town of Louisa in Louisa County. A time for the whole family to be able to enjoy the agriculture that Louisa has to offer. There will be farm animals, petting zoo, music, entertainment, food, children's games, vendors, livestock competitions, and lots of other competitions: photographs, plants, vegetables, baked goods, quilting, artwork, crafts, and much more! There are many things for everyone in the family to enjoy! Louisa Firemen's Fairgrounds. Directions: I-64 East to Louisa/Ferncliff Exit; turn left onto Route 208 (Courthouse Road); go about 8 miles into the town of Louisa; turn left at the light at Main Street; go one block and take first right onto Fredericksburg Avenue, fairgrounds are on the left past the railroad tracks. Friday 11am-5pm; Saturday 9am-4:30pm. All ages welcome. Contact: Hester Fletcher. Email: mailto:hfletcher@ns.gemlink.com?subject=Louisa. For more info call: 540-967-0069.

Here's a video from a livestock auction at the 2006 Louisa County Fair:


Friday-Sunday, August 3-5
VIRGINIA'S SALES TAX HOLIDAY
Take advantage of tax free school supplies weekend! A Sales Tax Holiday is a temporary period when certain purchases are exempt from the sales tax. In 2006, the General Assembly approved Virginia's first Sales Tax Holiday, to take place each year on the first full weekend in August. begins at 12:01am on Friday and end at midnight on Sunday. For details, please click this link.

Friday, August 3
FRIDAYS AFTER 5
Charlottesville Downtown Pavilion; Baaba Seth, show begins at 5:30pm, open to all ages. Web site about Baaba Seth: http://www.answers.com/topic/baaba-seth?cat=entertainment

Friday-Sunday, August 3-5
DISCOVER VIRGINIA: A NATURAL HISTORY RETREAT
Today through Sunday, the Wintergreen Nature Foundation brings together the state's finest field scientists, outdoor enthusiasts and teachers for Discover Virginia: a natural history retreat. For three days, participants enjoy classrooms with breathtaking scenery and undisturbed natural gardens atop the Blue Ridge Mountains. In day and night field trips with flora and wildlife specialists, participants investigate plants and animals in their natural habitats. Special sessions for teachers offer techniques and resources to revitalize the classroom experience for students. Prices and times vary. Wintergreen. http://twnf.org/programs

Friday, August 3
FIRST FRIDAYS AT THE FRONTIER CULTURE MUSEUM, STAUNTON
Frontier Culture Museum. Free family oriented evenings. Bring your family, picnic basket, lawn chairs, and a sense of adventure. Dine on the grounds, then take a walk down to the museum's four historic farms to experience living history presentations. Frontier Culture Museum. Directions: 1290 Richmond Rd, Staunton, VA 24401; Off I-81 North near intersection of I-64 in Staunton. 6 to 8pm. $free. All ages welcome. Email: mailto:info@fcmv.virginia.gov?subject=FIRST. For details, please click this link. For more info call: 540-332-7850.

Friday, August 3
STAR STRUCK
The view is out of this world at Public Night at McCormick Observatory from 9-11pm (weather permitting). UVA's research telescopes on O-Hill will be pointed heavenward, and Astronomy Department staff and students will be on hand with a slide show and answers to starry questions. Free. McCormick Road. 434/924-7494.

Saturday, August 4
FIRST SATURDAY BIRD WALK
Ivy Creek Foundation.Ron Kingston will lead an early morning bird walk to see our summer avian residents. Co-sponsored with the Monticello Bird Club. Meet in the parking lot. Ivy Creek Natural Area. Directions: Earlysville Road/Route 743. 7:30am. $free. For details, please click this link. For more info call: 434/973-7772.

Saturday, August 4
RIVANNA RIVERSIDE URBAN HIKING TOUR
City Parks and Albemarle County Parks.Guided hikes along the Rivanna leaving at 8:30am from both Darden Towe Park and Riverview Park, crossing at Free Bridge to complete the circuit. Family friendly. Darden Towe Park. 8:30 to 11am. $free. All ages welcome. Contact: Chris Gensic. Email: mailto:gensic@albemarle.org?subject=Rivanna. For more info call: 434/970-3656.

Saturday, August 4
WILDERNESS BUCK RIDGE TRAIL LOOP, SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK
Join the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) for a hike in Shenandoah National Park. Experience Shenandoah's most beautiful trails, waterfalls, and vistas while also learning about plant life, the impact of global warming, and other important issues affecting our national parks. This moderately strenuous 5.6-mile hike provides the perfect setting to discuss wilderness and backcountry issues that relate to national parks. RSVP requested. Free. 11am. Meet at the south end of Meadow Springs parking area, Mile Marker 35.5. 540-886-6772.

Saturday, August 4
HOMEMADE PEACH ICE CREAM DAYS
Chiles Peach Orchard. Fresh, homemade peach ice cream available this weekend only. Enjoy this homemade treat after picking your own peaches (or choosing from our fresh-picked selections). Peaches, nectarines, and local produce available. Call or visit the website for more information. Come early, this event can sell out!! Rt 691, Between Crozet & Greenwood . Directions: 1351 Greenwood Road, Crozet, VA. 10am to 5pm. All ages welcome. Contact: Cynthia Chiles. Email: mailto:Cynthia@CrownOrchard.com?subject=Homemade. For details, please click this link. For more info call: 434/823-1583.

Saturday, August 4
CANOE TRIP
Get paddling with members of the Outdoor Adventure Social Club. $30, plus membership. 9am. Fontaine Research Park. 434/760-HIKE.

Saturday, August 4
TOMATO TASTING AT MONTICELLO
This workshop examines and rates a sample of tomato varieties now available to gardeners. $10. 9:30am. Garden Shop, Monticello. 434/984-9822.

Saturday-Sunday, August 4-5
BLACKBERRY DAZE AT GREEN SPRINGS WINERY
Bring your family and start picking! U-pick your own juicy oversize blackberries. Call ahead to check on the blackberries. Green Springs Winery. Directions: 1890 Poindexter Road, Louisa, VA. 10am to 6pm. Email: mailto:lew@greenspringswinery.com?subject=Blackberry. For details, please click this link. For more info call: 540-967-WINE.

Saturday, August 4
KERNELS FOR KIDNEYS
Moms Club Charlottesville-North.Come buy fresh corn and homemade baked goods to support the families served by the Pediatric Renal Unit at the University of Virginia Health System! Forest Lakes South pool parking lot. Directions: Turn right into Forest Lakes South at Ashwood Blvd. Pool is on your left after about a mile. 10am to 12pm. All ages welcome. Contact: Marie Kronebusch. Email: mailto:mjkronebusch@hotmail.com?subject=Kernels. For more info call: 434/974-6426.

Saturday, August 4
SUMMER SATURDAYS: GOLDILOCKS & THE THREE BEARS
Ash Lawn Opera Festival and Albemarle Family. The unsuspecting Bear family heads out for an leisurely walk only to find an unwelcome visitor in their home when they return! The story of the mischievous golden-haired girl who causes trouble for Mama, Papa, and especially Baby Bear, is brought to life by Ash Lawn Opera's own Apprentice Artists in this opera written especially for children. Ash Lawn-Highland. Directions: Ash Lawn-Highland is located near I-64 and Route 250, 2.5 miles beyond Monticello on Route 53. 11am. $5 available at the door. All ages welcome. Email: mailto:info@ashlawnopera.org?subject=Summer. For details, please click this link. For more info call: 434/293-4500.

Saturday, August 4
MEET ARTISTS JANICE ARONE & JOE SHERIDAN
Reception for the two featured artists at Artisans Center of Virginia. See Arone's ceramic and Sheridan's rustic furniture. 2pm-4pm, 801 W. Broad St. Willow Oak Plaza, Waynesboro. 540-946-3294.

Sunday, August 5
CIVIL WAR ENCAMPMENT AND FREEDMAN'S FARM WALKING TOUR
Montpelier.Guided walking tour of the 1863-64 winter encampment of the Confederate South Carolina Brigade and the Gilmore Farm, the home built in 1872 by George Gilmore, a freedman born a slave at Montpelier circa 1810. The guide will be Jayne E. Blair, Montpelier Interpreter and author of two books on the Civil War. Montpelier. Directions: 11407 Constitution Highway, Montpelier Station VA 22957 Route 20, four miles south of Orange. 2pm. $Price included with admission. All ages welcome. For details, please click this link. For more info call: 540-672-2728.

Sunday, August 5
RHYTHM ON THE RIVER CONCERT, SCOTTSVILLE
Rhythm on the River, Inc..An annual tradition that gets better every year! Pack a picnic and a blanket for this live concert and festivities featuring TigerLily and Hot Soup Trio. Dorrier Park. Directions: Rt. 20 South from Charlottesville. Travel 18 miles to to down town Scottsville. Turn right onto Main Street (last right before the bridge over the James River). Take the first left after the Scottsville Post Office. Dorrier Park is straight ahead. 6pm. $free. All ages welcome. Email: mailto:rhythmontheriver@hotmail.com?subject=Rhythm. For details, please click this link. For more info call: 434/286-ISCA.

Sunday, August 5
SPIRIT OF 1608, RICHMOND
Science Museum of Virginia. See the Reedville Fishermen’s Museum’s 28 foot recreation of the barge used by Capt. John Smith to explore the Chesapeake Bay. Science Museum of Virginia. Directions: 2500 West Broad Street, Richmond . Monday-Saturday, 9:30am to 5pm Sunday, 11:30am to 5pm. $9 for youth ages 4-12, seniors who are 60+ and active military, and $10 for adults ages 13-59. All ages welcome. For details, please click this link. For more info call: 804-864-1400.

Have Fun!
Karen
http://www.move2va.com/

Quote for the week...

"God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference."

--Reinhold Niebuhr, 1930's-1940's

I live my life by this quote and prayer and it will make your life easier also, if you use it. To me it's automatic, and I just ask myself, "Can I do anything more?" If I've done everything humanly possible, I just let it go. It's like taking a monkey from your shoulders, when you let it go. Life goes on somehow. I hope you can enjoy and use the serenity prayer and it will bring peace to your life as well.

Karen
http://www.move2va.com/

Mortgage rates fell to 6.75% this week

First time they've fallen this month. This article from BankRate.com that discusses how the real estate markets got a mixed back of news this week:

http://bankrate.com/brm/news/bank/July2607_interest_rate_roundupa1.asp?s=2#tab

Let me know if you'd like a list of recommended lenders in the central Virginia area, I'll be happy to send it to you free of charge.

Have a great weekend!

Karen
www.move2va.com

Featured Home - 1925 Historic Home in Downtown Charlottesville

• Enjoy restoring this historic home in the city
• Eat-in kitchen has been re-done with oak cabinets
• Nice large rear yard
• Front porch
• Rear deck

If you'd like more information on this home or any other home in central Virginia, please email me at kehoe@move2va.com or call me at (800) 818-7629.

Karen
http://www.move2va.com/