Charlottesville

Construction of a new court complex is about to begin in Charlottesville – a project that was stopped when archaeologists began finding a treasure trove of artifacts from the city’s original tavern. It opened in 1779 with the father of a revolutionary war hero at the helm.

It’s been nearly six years since white supremacists shocked the world by marching on the University of Virginia campus, carrying torches and chanting racist and anti-Semitic slogans. Now some of those extremists are facing criminal charges.

On April 29th, as many as 15,000 people will gather in Charlottesville to celebrate a sport that dates back to 1752. Virginians have worked to keep the steeplechase tradition alive.

Critics of Charlottesville’s animal shelter say they’ve been threatened with legal action by a lawyer representing the shelter’s management. They’ve been told to stop making negative remarks and remove any attacks published online.

Victory Hall Opera is a small, independent company based in Charlottesville, founded by two singers who wanted to keep the emphasis on the human voice rather than expensive costumes and sets. Now, they’re moving in a new direction – making opera accessible to people who have never experienced it before.

Since September, 14 people have been killed and 22 wounded by gunfire in Charlottesville, prompting police to consider a gun buyback program. Richmond and Roanoke have also offered rewards to those who surrender their firearms, but that may not be the best way to prevent gun violence.

Gun violence is a growing problem in many parts of this state. In Charlottesville and the surrounding county 22 people have been shot since September and ten have died. Monday night, the new chief of police will host a community meeting to explore ways of addressing the problem. Sandy Hausman spoke to one community organizer who has some ideas.

Four sitting members agree — Leah Puryear gets the job

There are 155 animal shelters in Virginia, all of them regulated by the state. One is currently in the spotlight – the subject of an on-going protest by former employees and volunteers.

Three years ago Virginia’s legislature voted to make free tampons and pads available to girls in middle and high school, but the measure did not provide money for that expense. Now, young women in Albemarle County have mobilized to ensure access to period products.