Best of C-VILLE | 2023

the Hits All

From your everyday beers, cocktails & dinner, to your post-work meetings, weddings and more, Kardinal Hall has you covered.

Come enjoy innovative, locally-sourced cuisine in our European-inspired beer hall & spacious outdoor beer garden. Our 28 draft lines & carefully curated bottle list includes a vast array of local, national & imported craft beers sure to satisfy any beer lover.

We also offer hand-crafted cocktails & a wine list focused on thoughtful wines from sustainable producers.

BEST OUTDOOR DINING

WINNER RUNNER-UP FINALIST

• 17 Rotating Beers & Ciders on draft

• 1000+ craft beer selections

• 400+ wines with a focus on natural & biodynamic selections

• Classic American Cuisine with International Inspiration

• Locally and organically sourced ingredients

Open 7 days a week

Saturday Breakfast Tacos: 10am

Sunday Brunch: 10am

Lunch, Dinner Monday - Sunday. Family & Vegetarian Friendly

156 Carlton Rd.Suite 203 434-984-BEER (2337) www.BeerRun.com

BEST RESTAURANT BEER LIST

BEST KID-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

722 Preston Ave. | 434-295-4255

KardinalHall.com | events@kardinalhall.com

WINNER

Your Builder, Your Neighbor

To our homeowners, trade partners, neighbors, friends, and Charlottesville community for voting us Charlottesville’s BEST local homebuilder in the Best of Cville! We are honored to be a favorite local homebuilder and extremely proud of the relationships we have built.

THANK YOU!

What does it take to be the best? In his book Outliers: The Story of Success, Malcolm Gladwell says one needs at least 10,000 hours practicing a thing to be an expert at it. But that doesn’t necessarily equate to “the best.” The best, at least in this town, is more of a feeling: It’s a crisp glass of Virginia wine with a view of the Blue Ridge in the distance; it’s an annual family portrait by the photographer who was there (right there?) when you gave birth; it’s a foot race that takes you past the houses of your neighbors where they’re waiting with bottles of water and a few “woo-hoos!” Best can be quantified in myriad measurable ways, but we use our annual readers’ poll to celebrate the intangible things that make us love living in Charlottesville, from the practical (like your favorite grocery store) to the nice-to-know (like where everyone’s getting their eyebrows waxed). After all, with more than 10,000 hours living here, you’re definitely the experts.—Caite Hamilton

ENTERTAINMENT

Music group to influencer, these winners have perfect pitch. P.17

SERVICES

If you’ve got the money, they’ve got the time (and skills). P.97

HEALTH + FITNESS

Shape up or ship out. Here are 26 ways to get started. P.37

WEDDINGS

Your special day’s secret weapon: A list of quality vendors. P.125

FOOD + DRINK

Find the best restaurant in town— and then some—right here. P.53

KIDS + FAMILY

It takes a village—and we’ve got the greatest one there is. P.141

SHOPPING

From wine shop to home store, these spots are spree-worthy. P.79

BEST

FOR LAST

LOVE is all around. P.162

TRISTAN WILLIAMS

Best of C-VILLE Editor Caite Hamilton Contributors Richard DiCicco, Carol Diggs, Mary Esselman, Shea Gibbs, Claudia Gohn, Maeve Hayden, Tami Keaveny, Catie Ratliff, Susan Sorensen Photographers Dan Addison, Eze Amos, Meredith Coe Photography, Dear Lovers Photography, EightEighteen Photography, Jen Fariello, Sarah Houston Photography, Justin Ide Photography, Chris Martin, Matt Riley, John Robinson, Elli Williams, Tristan Williams

@VIRGINIANWITHLOUISIANAROOTS

Music group to influencer, these winners have perfect pitch.

Jack & Wendy Brown • Lynn & Kenny Brown • Pam & Frank Edmonds

Chris & Brad Eure

Janna & David Gies

Elizabeth & Joe LeVaca

Julie & Geoff Montross · Susie Morris

ART MUSEUM OR GALLERY

Ix Art Park ixartpark.org

McGuffey Art Center mcguffeyartcenter.com

BAND

Chamomile and Whiskey chamomileandwhiskey.com

Kendall Street Company kendallstreetcompany.com

CLASSICAL MUSIC GROUP

Charlottesville Symphony cvillesymphony.org

Charlottesville Band cvilleband.org

DRAG VENUE

Umma’s ummasfood.com

Ix Art Park ixartpark.org

DRAMATIC ARTS VENUE

The Paramount Theater theparamount.net

Live Arts livearts.org

FESTIVAL Crozet Arts & Crafts Festival crozetfestival.com

Virginia Film Festival virginiafilmfestival.org

CONTINUED ON PAGE 21

Tooth and nails

THE CHARLOTTESVILLE LADY ARM WRESTLERS—AKA CLAW—RETURNED IN STYLE after a three-year hiatus. Just before Halloween 2022, the collective that combines cosplay, competition, and charity into a raucous show of bulging biceps clashed at Champion Brewing Company. Each event raises money for a women-led organization or business, and this one honored the Blue Ridge Abortion Fund.

“I came to win tonight, but the real winner is BRAF,” said wrestler Zsa Zsa Gabortion. That night’s CLAWing It Back event raked in nearly $14,000—the most ever for a CLAW show. “All funds raised will support people from or traveling to Virginia for their abortion care,” says Deborah Arenstein, BRAF director of development.

Zsa Zsa Gabortion was the champion of the night, but she was just one member of a colorful cast of outrageous characters locking arms for a chance at glory. Like Sally Williamson, who plays her own mashup of Zsa Zsa Gabor and an abortion rights activist, many women in CLAW don familiar personas or create whole new characters for each performance. And they come from all walks of life, from a wide age range, to take on roles like the dolled-up flapper ChiCLAWgo—portrayed by Amy Hill, a graphic designer and marketing professional, and Fist of Furiosa, a Mad Max-style warrior played by Lucy Fitzgerald, a Ph.D. candidate at UVA.

“We’re just regular people,” says ref Tightship McLeod. “But we do it all—we know how to have fun, and we help the community. That’s what happens when women run the show.”—RD

Our local lady arm wrestlers performed their way to a record-breaking $14,000 (awarded to the Blue Ridge Abortion Fund) at CLAW's first match following a three-year hiatus.

WHITACRE Equus

HIGDON O magnum mysteriu

HAILSTORK I Will Lift Up Mine Eyes

Symphonie Fantastique

Saturday, February 10, 7:30pm

Sunday, February 11, 3:30pm

Ken Lam, Guest conductor

Nathaniel Lee, Trombone

DEBUSSY Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun

Tickets

Subscriptions: Symphony Office, 434.924.3139

Single Tickets: UVA Arts Box Office artsboxoffice.virginia.edu or 434.924.3376 starting Sept. 5

RAVEL Boléro, arr. Rous

Family Holiday Concerts

Saturday, December 2, 7:30pm

Sunday, December 3, 3:30pm

Michael Slon, Conductor UVA University Singers

Both Holiday Concerts are held at Old Cabell Hall.

Locations and Times

Saturday concerts 7:30pm, UVA’s Old Cabell Hall. Sunday

Luther King, Jr. Performing Arts Center at Charlottesville High School. artists and venues are subject to change.

Very Special

Thanks to:

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

GALLERY ARTIST

River Hawkins

@riverhawkins

Camille Gerrick

@camille.gerrick

LOCAL AUTHOR

John Grisham jgrisham.com

Jocelyn Nicole Johnson jocelynjohnson.com

LOCAL INFLUENCER

Katie Cox

@kaatiecoxx

Jason Elliott

@zeroexqses

LOCAL TV PERSONALITY

Kasey Hott (NBC29)

Dan Schutte (CBS19)

LOCAL RADIO PERSONALITY

Sherry Taylor (Z95.1)

Tom Morgan (Generations 102.3)

LOCAL RADIO STATION

106.1 The Corner

WNRN 91.9

CONTINUED ON PAGE 25

SHORT AND SWEET

It’s always fun to see a local face on TV (remember when chef Laura Fonner won “Guy’s Grocery Games”?). This summer, it was area realtor Kara Rojer (formerly Bass), who with her now-husband Guillermo Rojer appeared on TLC’s “90-Day Fiancé,” a show in which couples with foreign fiancés who’ve applied for a Visa have 90 days to marry or break up. Rojer and her husband, who is from Venezuela, were the first couple on their season to wed, and welcomed a baby boy in November of 2022. Dreams really do come true.—CH

THE FULL MONTICELLO

Monticello’s “Behind the Scenes” tour offers a fuller picture of life at Jefferson’s iconic home. See the first floor (TJ’s rooms and the public spaces), then take the narrow spiral staircase up to the rooms used by daughter Martha Randolph and her family, guests, and enslaved workers. A highlight is the light-filled circular Dome Room with the children’s “fairy palace.”—CD

Locals Kara and Guillermo Rojer found love in a hopeful place—on TLC's "90-Day Fiancé."

Dürty deeds

The Fry’s Spring bar is in the midst of a renaissance

Saunter up to Dürty Nelly’s on a Wednesday night and you’ll see a gaggle of people crowding the entrance outside. It’s not that they can’t get in—they’re just taking a breather, chatting with friends, maybe having a smoke before they plunge back into the chaos inside. In the parking lot, you might hear a drunken diva blaring through a Kesha song at karaoke, or a local band blowing the doors off. Dürty Nelly’s makes an explosive impression, and that’s before you’re blinded by the bright neon lights of its signature stage sign.

“I think the community loves our thriving divevibes,” says owner Jordan Brunk. “There’s nowhere else like Dürty Nelly’s.” He’s right: People flock to his pub for its party-time atmosphere, and its friendly staff make sure that party rages until the clock strikes midnight.

Since COVID restrictions started easing up, Brunk has been determined to bring more live mu-

sic to Dürty Nelly’s. In the spring of 2021, he hired Koda Kerl to manage the bar’s bookings, in part to emulate the casual live-music setup at Brunk’s other bar and restaurant, Crozet Pizza at Buddhist Biker Bar. At Nelly’s, Kerl and Brunk have launched a “curated writer showcase,” and expanded their performance space from the single neon-lit indoor stage to an additional pickup truck bed outside.

The pub’s shift toward being a live music venue has caused some locals to declare the bar’s going through a renaissance. But while Brunk can’t vouch for the pub’s heyday—“Dürty Nelly’s is older than I am,” he says, “and the origin story is best told by our lovely happy hour regulars that have been there since day one”—he does believe that Nelly’s is “a safe haven for the talented van people” now that bands are on the road again.

Kerl’s been a touring artist himself, with Chamomile and Whiskey, so he knows the

value of smaller clubs like Nelly’s. And that know-how has helped him bring local talent to “Koda’s Corral,” including Adam Long, Emily Kresky, Kai Crowe-Getty, Rob Cheatham, Will Overman, and Kerl himself.

“We don’t have an enormous budget, but we’ve been gaining a reputation for being fun and an easy stop on the way to more lucrative shows,” Kerl says.

The bar’s booker has striven to keep things diverse, too, from the sounds to the crowds. Country, garage rock, and jangly jagged indie stand side by side on the calendar, and the bar has even hosted music video shoots for local bands. Sometimes the only things showgoers might have in common are a love for cheap drinks and great tunes.

“It’s fun to see people in their 70s hanging out with college kids and people of different tastes,” Kerl says. “That’s the kind of stuff that makes us proud and happy to be a part of the scene.”—RD

TRISTAN WILLIAMS

Anyone else finding themselves excited to go to Dürty Nelly's lately? Get in line.

MOVIE THEATER

Alamo

Drafthouse

drafthouse.com/charlottesville

Violet Crown

charlottesville.violetcrown.com

MURAL

Ix Art Park

ixartpark.org

I Love Charlottesville A Lot

Fitzgerald’s Tires, 408 Monticello Rd.

MUSIC ARTIST

John D’earth

facebook.com/johndearthtrumpet

Eli Cook elicook.com

MUSIC VENUE (LARGE)

Ting Pavilion

tingpavilion.com

The Jefferson Theater

jeffersontheater.com

MUSIC VENUE (SMALL)

The Southern Café & Music Hall

thesoutherncville.com

Pro Re Nata

prnbrewery.com

PODCAST Green Light Podcast with

Chris Long

greenlightpodcast.com

The Rising Mind with Sidney Blair

@itssidneyblair

Honky-tonk at Holly’s

HOLLY’S DINER ON EAST MARKET STREET OFFERS UP AFFORDABLE EATS AND A cozy bar, but stick around late enough and you’ll see what keeps patrons coming back for more night after night. Holly’s has a packed calendar when it comes to live entertainment—from open mics to game nights, rockin’ blues bands, and even a goth night. And returning this August on the third Friday of every month is Honky-Tonk Karaoke.

The three-hour event combines live music with karaoke and a two-step dance lesson. A one-hour jam session kicks things off, and by the second hour eager singers donning cowboy hats and boots will be lining up to belt out country tunes with the band. As long as diners know the words and the key, they’ll be good to get on stage. And once the tables and chairs have been pushed to the side to clear the dance floor, you know it’s a party.

But savvy music fans don’t just have to wait for the third Friday of the month for their slice of Americana. Gritty singer-songwriter Eli Cook regularly brings his brand of bluesy rock to Holly’s (with a full band), as do local staples like the Chickenhead Blues Band and Ian Gilliam & The FireKings.—RD

DOWN TO D’EARTH

Jazzman John D’earth has his hands in so many Charlottesville music scene projects that his own record releases can go unnoticed. But his newest LP, Coin of the Realm, demands attention. The seven-track album is vintage D’earth—experimental enough to interest the hardcore jazz fan, catchy enough for the casual listener. “It’s a poetic impulse to play music this way,” D’earth says.—SG

DREW STAWIN PHOTOGRAPHY

Boot, scoot, and boogy to Holly's for honky-tonk karaoke.

Just the facts

Where to catch trivia (almost) every night of the week

Who can say why it’s fun to sit with a group of friends, in a room of strangers, competing to see who can correctly answer questions like, “What sitcom character defeated the Bubble Boy with the Trivial Pursuit answer, ‘the Moops’?” It just is. Especially in Charlottesville, where almost every night of the week a local venue invites you to match wits while wetting your whistle.—ME

Monday

Decipher Brewing 6:30pm

National trivia game purveyor Geeks Who Drink provides the questions, but a local host runs the game. Tough questions in an easygoing, dogfriendly atmosphere, with gift cards for top teams, and $3 off tabs for correctly answering bonus questions.

Brightside Beach Pub 6:30pm

Fins to the left, fins to the right, and $1 wings all day! A Jimmy Buffett vibe means no one cares if you come late or can’t spell (especially after downing the pitcher special). Original material, local hosts, and generous gift cards for winners.

Tuesday Firefly 8pm

Playful and community-minded, Firefly offers local comfort food and a later-than-most start time for their Geeks Who Drink trivia. This crowd is young(ish), queer-friendly, and whip smart. Reservations encouraged.

Fry’s Spring Station 7pm

Tricky, wacky questions from an eclectic, droll host. Play from the patio or inside, while munching family-friendly pizzas, or indulging in a Bucket-o-Beer special.

Wednesday

Birdwood Grill at Boars Head Resort 6pm

A distinctly local event, from the Carter Mountain views to the casual Southern fare, with complimentary putting on the Ridges Putting Course. Homegrown questions and hosts each week.

King Family Vineyard 6pm

Teams of up to 10 people play four rounds of original trivia, for tasting room and food truck prizes. Expect light-hearted themes, like Name That Tune, and the occasional wine category (snag a sommelier for your team).

Pro Re Nata 6pm

Crozet locals and guests enjoy custom-curated questions from veteran trivia host Ron. Laid-back fun in a setting that feels like your favorite uncle’s dream of a sports bar brewery.

Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint

First and Third Wednesdays 7pm

Bawdy trivia and banging burgers. “I usually stand on the bar or a stool and ask the questions over a megaphone,” says bartender/host Alyssa. “There is always a lot of fun heckling, some cursing, and I sometimes throw in math equations where 69 is involved—semi-crass humor, if you will.” Get there by 6 for a table!

Starr Hill Downtown 7pm

Nerd heaven. Dairy Market eats, and funnytough questions from legendary hosts Nate and Olivia. Bring friends, and strive to crush the spirit out of the brilliant young wiseacres who usually win.

Thursday

Potter’s Craft Cider 6pm

Trivia and Thai one Thursday per month

Pair Chimm Thai food with the trivia talents of Mountain View Elementary’s John Daniels. Add a crowd of wild public school teachers. Set the whole thing in a magical forest cidery, and you’ve got a storybook trivia adventure, right down to a grand prize of ringing the historic Chapel Bell in the Tasting Room.

Alamo Drafthouse 7pm

Come for the happy hour-priced drinks and appetizers, stay for the antics of beloved host, Fernando. Questions via Triviatainment’s Thinkand-Drink, except on occasional theme nights, when you’ll need to brush up on your Harry Potter, “Friends,” Star Wars, or “Gilmore Girls” knowledge.

Sunday

Random Row 5pm (above)

Cold beer, Neapolitan-style pizza, and a welcoming crowd make this trivia night a feel-good win, even if you place last. Geeks Who Drink questions range from mind-bending to easy-peasy, but the game almost feels secondary to the buoyant community vibe.—ME

TRISTAN WILLIAMS

Lee Enterprises Virginia is bringing the second annual Mad Jazz Festival to beautiful Nelson County. Hear critically acclaimed saxophonist Tim Warfield as well as other jazz greats, Grammy-nominated musicians and chart climbers. It’s an event not to be missed!

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Chris Long Foundation which brings clean water and education opportunities to under-served communities, both domestic and internationally. That is music to our ears!

Photo: Ézé Amos

Shape up or ship out. Here are 26 ways to get started.

A dynasty is born

UVA’s women swimmers blow the competition out of the water

Six individual national wins. Victory in all five relays. National team champs (for the third year in a row!). It was business as usual for the University of Virginia in March at the NCAA Women’s Swimming & Diving Championship in Knoxville, Tennessee.

Senior Kate Douglass won three individual national championships (200-meter individual medley, 100 butterfly, 200 breaststroke), while Gretchen Walsh won two (100 backstroke, 100 freestyle). And Walsh’s older sister, Alex, who along with Douglass medaled at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, won the 400 IM. As a team, the Hoos swept the relays with wins in the 200 medley, the 800 free, the 200 free, the 400 medley, and the 400 free.

Before the meet, Head Coach Todd DeSorbo said, “Arguably, we’ve got the best team that we’ve ever had here at UVA, so I feel really good.”

Turns out DeSorbo had reason to feel good: By meet’s end, Virginia’s nearest competitor, the University of Texas, had scored 414.5 team points to UVA’s 541.5. And in case the Cavs’ foes thought they had a chance to catch UVA, the 400-meter freestyle relay team put an exclamation point on the Hoos’ performance during the competition’s final event with a time of 3:05.85, which set a new NCAA and American record. It also made UVA the first team since Stanford in 2018 to sweep all five relays at the national championships.

After the meet, DeSorbo talked to C-VILLE about saying goodbye to the seniors on his team. “They believed and trusted immediately, and were just really excited to be a part of the potential rise of our program. And they’ve all just been such great people and influences and leaders on our team. … They’re definitely gonna leave a lasting legacy, and they play a significant role in where we are today.”

But Gretchen Walsh, who will be a junior next year, is already looking toward 2024, when she hopes to help UVA match Stanford’s 1995 feat of winning four straight NCAA Swimming & Diving titles. “I think we can do it,” she said in April. “We’re creating a legacy, and that’s one of the coolest things about this experience.”

BARRE STUDIO

Pure Barre

purebarre.com/location/charlottesville-va FlyDog Yoga flydogyoga.com

BIG GYM

ACAC acac.com

Brooks Family YMCA piedmontymca.org

BIRTHING SERVICES

Sentara Martha Jefferson

sentara.com

Charlottesville Midwifery cvillemidwifery.com

CHIROPRACTOR

Wayne Fusco (Cox Chiropractic Clinic) coxclinic.com

Joe Cantu (The Chiropractic Office) walkercantuchiropractic.com

COSMETIC SURGEON

To help make a four-peat a reality, Walsh pointed to her list of individual goals for next season: Hit 20.5 seconds in the 50 freestyle and 47 seconds in the 100 backstroke—and add another American record by beating 45.56 seconds in the 100 freestyle. Then there’s that Olympic rings tattoo: Silver-medalist Alex Walsh refuses to get her rings tattoo until her sister, who failed to qualify for the 2020 Olympic team the summer before she arrived at UVA, also medals at the Olympics (Gretchen’s fourth-grade self-portrait was of her standing on the Olympic blocks).

“Since coming into UVA, having this change and this new environment, I feel a lot more confident going into next summer, in my abilities and my training, all around,” Gretchen Walsh said. “I think [an Olympic medal] is definitely feasible.”—SS

Victoria Vastine (The Center for Plastic Surgery) mjhplasticsurgery.com

Elizabeth Chance (Chance + Co) drchance.com

CROSSFIT OR STRENGTH STUDIO

MADabolic

Charlottesville madabolic.com/location/charlottesville Solidarity CrossFit solidaritycrossfit.com

This is not a drill: UVA's women swimmers smoke the competition.

MATT RILEY / UVA ATHLETICS

More than a gym

WHEN SOMEONE AS FIT AND ACCOMPLISHED AS NICOLE HAWKER OPENS HER first-ever gym, you might think she’d call it No Pain, No Gain, or Good Luck Keeping Up with Me.

An ACE Certified Personal Trainer and CrossFit Level 1 coach, Hawker, 50, has crushed half-marathons and the Richmond marathon. She’s a Prolyfyck Run Creww regular, Crossfit weightlifter, and certified yoga instructor. Oh, and she’s also mom to three adult children and countless foster children, holds a master’s degree in counseling, and, until last year, worked full time in social services.

But when the Charlottesville native opened her nonprofit gym in November 2022, she named it after her fitness philosophy: Heart & Soul Fitness with Nicole. “When we are emotionally and spiritually well, we have greater capacity to take care of ourselves physically and vice-versa,“ says Hawker.

A peaceful studio in the Cherry Avenue Shopping Center, Heart & Soul offers an inclusive space for fitness classes, coaching, and events open to all, regardless of age, athletic level, or ability to pay. “I was drawn to Cherry Avenue because of childhood memories,” Hawker says. “I wanted to be accessible to a community that may not have access to larger, more expensive fitness studios.”

Hawker also partners with the Women’s Initiative and Region 10 to provide women’s wellness classes, and this summer the gym hosted its first annual 5K community walk.

Whether you’re cranking out burpees or clearing your head, Hawker hopes you’ll find strength at Heart & Soul Fitness.—ME

DENTIST

Lauren Stump (Downtown Dental) cvilledowntowndental.com

Brad Spano (South Side Dental Center) charlottesvilledentist.com

DERMATOLOGIST

Anna Magee (Charlottesville Dermatology) cvillederm.com

Deborah Elder (Charlottesville Dermatology) cvillederm.com

ESTHETICIAN

Linda Pitt (Signature Medical Spa) signaturemedspa.com

Athena Evans (Stone Fox Beauty Project) stonefoxbeautyproject.com

FITNESS CYCLE STUDIO

Zoom

Charlottesville zoomcville.com

Purvelo purvelocycle.com

FOOT RACE/FUN RUN

Women’s 4 Miler womens4miler.org

Prolyfyck Run Creww prolyfyck.com

SWETT DENTISTRY

GENERAL PRACTITIONER

Lindsay Friesen (Sentara Family Medicine) sentara.com

Kathy Phan (UVA Primary Care) uvahealth.com

GOLF COURSE

Birdwood at Boar’s Head Resort boarsheadresort.com

Spring Creek Golf Club springcreekgolfclub.com

MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL Gracie Charlottesville graciecharlottesville.com

Laughing Dragon Kung Fu laughingdragonkungfu.com

MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL

Amanda

Sovik-Johnston (Virginia Family Therapy) activeconnected.com

Kathleen O’Neil (Compass Behavioral Solutions) compassva.com

MOUNTAIN-BIKING TRAIL OR PARK

Rivanna Trail rivannatrails.org

Ragged Mountain Natural Area charlottesville.org

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 41 CONTINUED ON PAGE 45

Hoos running things

TWO UVA TRACK TEAM MEMBERS FOUNDED RUN CHARLOTTESVILLE IN 2018. NOW, THE organization is bringing together college athletes and area kids at three Virginia locations. The mission? Use running to better the lives of young people from up and down the socioeconomic spectrum.

“For me, to see the kids every week get an opportunity to socialize and have fun outside and get more exposure to running and activity in general … it’s special,” says Trina Barcarola, the organization’s incoming president. “It’s great for the UVA students, too, because we don’t get a lot of exposure to kids.”

Barcarola, a UVA track team pole vaulter, says sports has translated to success in other areas of her own life, and that pushes her to make Run Charlottesville the best service organization it can be. Barcarola takes over as president from Owayne Owens, who’s been in the position for three years. Owens hopes that during his own time at its helm, Run Charlottesville has given a few kids the same opportunities running’s given him. “It has done so much for me—it got me a scholarship,” Owens says. “If we can get kids to start running at a young age, we have so much to offer them: working together in groups, discipline, enjoying hard work. I just want to see kids better off because they were made aware of running.”—SG

Better living through running—that's the mission of UVA-founded Run Charlottesville.

EMPOW-HER-ING

Jessica Carter believes that personal development should begin on the field. But not everyone has access to the kind of athletic opportunities that facilitate that kind of growth—and in fact, girls drop out of sports at double the rate boys do by age 14. So in 2020, the former Charlottesville High School JV girls basketball coach and Mary Baldwin University’s all-time leading basketball scorer founded HER Sports. An acronym for Hustle to Earn Respect, the nonprofit uses clinics, training opportunities, and partnerships with local organizations to break down the barriers that prevent girls from engaging in sports, and provide character and leadership development.—CH

NICHE GYM

Orangetheory Fitness

orangetheory.com

MADabolic Charlottesville madabolic.com

OPTOMETRIST

Stephen Basic (Drs. Bare, Basic, & Rohm) eyesoncville.com

Andrew Collins (Blue Ridge Opthamology) blueridgeeyemd.com

ORTHODONTIST

Barton Weis (Charlottesville Orthodontics)

charlottesvilleorthodontics.com

David Hamer (Hamer & Glassick) cvillebraces.com

PERSONAL TRAINER

Chris Collins (ACAC) acac.com

Vanessa Bullard (HI//low Charlottesville) hilowcharlottesville.com

ON THE FRONT LINE

Each year, UVA gives the Edlich-Henderson Innovator of the Year award to a faculty member who is making a great impact on society. In 2022, the award went to Marc Breton, an associate professor of psychiatry and neurobehavioral sciences who, in 2004, helped create the first and only simulation environment accepted by the FDA to replace animal studies in pre-clinical assessment of insulin treatment. That helped them get to their next breakthrough: an artificial pancreas that will transform the treatment of Type 1 diabetes.—CH

HER Sports founder Jessica Carter knows how to hustle.

PHYSICAL THERAPIST

Michelle Little (Women in Motion)

womeninmotionpt.com

Alan Barb (Whole Strength Physical Therapy)

wholestrengthphysicaltherapy.com

PILATES STUDIO

Tru Pilates

trupilates.com

HI//low Charlottesville

hilowcharlottesville.com

PLACE TO BALANCE YOUR CHAKRAS

FlyDog Yoga

flydogyoga.com

Salute the Sun Yoga

salutethesunyoga.com

WALKING/HIKING PARK OR TRAIL

Saunders-Monticello

Trail

monticello.org

Rivanna Trail rivannatrails.org

YOGA STUDIO

FlyDog Yoga

flydogyoga.com

Hot Yoga Charlottesville

hotyogacville.com

WELLNESS STUDIO

AquaFloat of Charlottesville

aquafloatcville.com

Well Room

wellroomva.com

Net positive

Anna Williamson always brings her ‘A’ game

If you’d told a young Anna Williamson that one day she’d be atop a ladder at the John Paul Jones Arena, making the final snip to cut down the net after the UVA men’s basketball team won a share of the ACC regular-season title, she’d have thought you were pranking her. But that’s exactly where Williamson, a thenfourth-year student manager who’s been an uberfan fan of the team her entire life, found herself last March.

“When [Associate Head] Coach Williford came up to me and said, ‘Anna, you’re gonna finish it off, take the rest of [the net down],’ and handed me the scissors, it was so special,” Williamson says. “And to look over and see my family on senior day … I thought about my little self, who’d go to games and watch UVA beat Carolina schools.”

Watching Williamson, the daughter of two University of Virginia alums, climb to the top of that ladder was especially moving because she was born with spina bifida, and is paralyzed from the knees down. A North Carolina native, she has undergone more than a dozen surgeries and wears a brace on her right leg to help her walk. Inclines are difficult for her.

Before last spring’s ACC Tournament, few UVA basketball fans knew much about Williamson, other than that she was one of 10 student managers whom they’d occasionally glimpse on the sidelines—that is, until ESPN reporter Holly Rowe shone a light on her. And that’s when Williamson says parents of children with spina bifida, a birth defect in which an area of the spinal cord in a developing baby doesn’t form properly, reached out to her on social media, looking for reassurance that their children were going to be fine.

Williamson, who graduated in May and will open Revival coffee shop in Charlottesville this fall, is more than fine.

“It’s a mental game,” she says when asked about the often grueling work of being a student manager for a D-1 college basketball program (she estimates that she worked eight hours on game days, and another three or fours on practice days).

“I can do a lot more physically when I get my mind right about it,” Williamson says. “I’m 5-foot-4, and I’m not as strong [as other student

managers], but I did the job to the best of my ability, which is what was asked of me.”

That “ask” came the summer before she started at UVA in 2019. She was working as the first female coach at the Tony Bennett Basketball Camp, when Ronnie Wideman, associate athletic director for men’s basketball, spoke to her about being a student manager when school started in the fall. After considering her strengths and weaknesses, and thinking about what she’d bring to the program, Williamson said yes—and never looked back.

Her job was to “do whatever made the [members of the team’s] lives easier day to day. To oil the machine, do behind-the-scenes work, and watch [the team] shine,” she says. “UVA was my dream school since I was a kid, and I’ve always admired [Head] Coach Bennett,” who Williamson says taught everyone about much more than basketball.

“He taught me a lot of perspective on life, and about hard stretches, and how caring for your friends and family is more important than basketball.”—SS

Nothing but net for Anna Williamson, a former UVA student manager who made the final snip following last spring's ACC Tournament victory.

MATT RILEY UVA ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS

WHAT WE DO

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We do not endorse or oppose candidates for a political office or for a political party.

We are committed to applying the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion in all of our operations and activities.

We support government policies that apply these principles in addressing social, environmental and economic problems in our communities.

We hold government officials accountable for decision-making that promotes widespread informed and civic participation.

Learn more about what we do at our website lwv-cva.org and Facebook page.

JOIN US IN OUR MISSION! Contact us: lwv@lwv-cva.org

Photo credit: 3CatsPhoto

BAD, BAD, NOT GOOD

Imagine you get your fortune told and it predicts you’ll get wet shoes. Or your flight will get delayed. Or you’ll step on a LEGO. Sounds like some bad luck, huh? Well, at Bad Luck Ramen, that’s all you’ll get at its fortune telling machine. Inspired by owner and head brewer Andrew Centofante’s trip to a Buddhist shrine in Japan, in which he received the worst fortune imaginable (“bad health, bad career, do not buy a house, do not travel, no romance, a black cloud will follow you … bad,” he says), the black cat machine only deals out dismal predictions.—RD

BACK TO BISCUITS

BBQ is a labor of love. So when Brian Ashworth tired of the labor and threatened to close Ace Biscuit and Barbecue, a ’cue-lover stepped in to save it. “Ace was always one of my favorites—in my opinion the best barbecue in Charlottesville,” said Stefan Friedman, who bought the biz in March. What’s next for Ace? Friedman promises full dinner hours, grab-and-go menu items, live music, and big ’ol biscuits like the ones Ashworth made when he first opened.—SG

BBQ

BBQ Exchange

bbqex.com

Ace Biscuit & Barbecue

acebiscuitandbarbecue.com

BAKERY

MarieBette Café & Bakery

mariebette.com

Albemarle Baking Co.

albemarlebakingco.com

BARTENDER

Mederio Venable (The Bebedero)

thebebedero.com

Andrea Rouillard (The Alley Light) alleylight.com

BREWERY (LARGE)

Three Notch’d Craft Kitchen & Brewery

threenotchdbrewing.com

Blue Mountain Brewery

bluemountainbrewery.com

BREWERY (SMALL)

Rockfish Brewing Company

rockfishbrewcompany.com

Decipher Brewing

decipherbrewingco.wixsite.com/mysite-1

BRUNCH

Guajiros Miami Eatery

guajiros.net

Beer Run beerrun.com

EZE AMOS

TRISTAN WILLIAMS

Gotta keep your fingers (and toes?) crossed at Bad Luck Ramen's fortune machine.

Welcome to citizen...

THE PEOPLE’S BURGER BAR

There are certain basic freedoms we hold dear. For one, the enjoyment of a great burger and a beer with friends. This is America, after all, a delicious burger is your right –perhaps even your responsibility.

Local beef. Local buns. Local cheeses. Local veggies. Local beers, wines, and liquors. Real food and a real good time.

Voted Best

Burger 10 Years in a Row!

BURGER

Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint Cville

jackbrownsjoint.com

Riverside Lunch

1429 Hazel St.

CHEF

Laura Fonner (Siren)

Kelvin Barrera (South and Central) southandcentralgrill.com

CHINESE

Peter Chang

China Grill

peterchangtogo.com

Red Lantern redlanterncharlottesville.com

COFFEEHOUSE

Grit Coffee

gritcoffee.com

Shenandoah Joe Coffee Roasters shenandoahjoe.com

CRAFT COCKTAILS

The Alley Light alleylight.com

The Bebedero thebebedero.com

DIETARY- OR ALLERGY-FRIENDLY

Burtons Grill & Bar

burtonsgrill.com

Botanical Fare botanicalfare.com

PIZZA PARTY

Pint-sized Belmont pie hole/bar Lampo took over the former Bridge Progressive Arts Initiative space earlier this year and opened Bar Baleno (Italian for flash). With room enough for 60 guests, the small event space offers Lampo’s full menu for seated dinners or cocktail parties. On Thursday evenings the bar is open to the public, and industry folks should keep watch: Baleno regularly stays open late just for waitstaff, post-service.—CH

MAKING SPACE

When Blenheim Vineyards launched Oenoverse in 2022, it envisioned an inclusive space that would pair wine and community. Since then, the wine club has hosted and promoted events that spotlight what’s cool about Virginia wine, all while making sure anyone who’s interested can be part of the conversation. After all, isn’t half of enjoying wine about bringing people together?—CH

Oenoverse co-founder Reggie Leonard

Family business

FEW LOCAL RESTAURANTS HAVE AS LOYAL A FOLLOWING AS Guajiros Miami Eatery.

On weekends, newcomers and regulars alike flock to West Main Street, sometimes happily waiting an hour to get inside and dig into the mouthwatering Cuban dishes inspired by the flavors and culture of Miami and south Florida.

The eatery is owned and run by the Mayorga family, and it’s been a family affair every step of the way.

Three brothers run the restaurant day-to-day: Danilo Mayorga takes care of the front of the house, Harvey Mayorga Jr. curates cocktails, and Sebas-

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 57

tian Mayorga runs the kitchen. Their father, Harvey Sr., keeps the books while mother, Jacqueline Roque, contributes family recipes—dishes she served to her children for years are now on the restaurant’s menu. Sometimes, you’ll see sisters Bessie and Dora, as well as Harvey Jr.’s wife Carla Chavez-Mayorga with their children, littlest Harvey and Eva.

For the Mayorgas, who are Nicaraguan in nationality and Miamian by American dream, their food is a way of celebrating diversity.

“I don’t want to be labeled as a Nicaraguan restaurant,” says Harvey Jr., “because we want to have the melting pot of cultures.”

The menu includes all-day breakfast, sweet Cuban-style coffee, refreshing cocktails, and occasional specials. The classic Cuban with ham, seasoned pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard is one of the most popular items, and for dessert Mama Guajiros famous tres leches is a must-try.—MH

CONTINUED ON PAGE 61

Cuba meets Miami meets Charlottesville at Guajiros on West Main Street.

CHRIS MARTIN

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 59

INDIAN

Kanak Indian Kitchen

kanakcville.com

Milan Indian Restaurant milan-indian-cuisine.com

ITALIAN Tavola tavolavino.com

Vivace vivacecville.com

LOCAL CIDERY

Potter’s Craft Cider

potterscraftcider.com Bold Rock boldrock.com

LOCAL DISTILLERY

Silverback Distillery sbdistillery.com

Ragged Branch Distillery raggedbranch.com

NEW RESTAURANT

Umma’s ummasfood.com

Ralph Sampson’s American Taproom

americantaproom.com

CONTINUED ON PAGE 65

Ride on

AS A CHEF, TUCKER YODER HAS DEDICATED 20 YEARS TO FEEDING HUNGRY CUSTOMERS. Yoder began his restaurant career at 15 years old, working as a host, waiter, and dishwasher. After attending the New England Culinary Institute, he worked as a chef at local restaurants Oxo, Clifton Inn, Red Hen, and Back 40, before coming to his current position as executive chef at Broadcloth, where he serves up versatile dishes that highlight Virginia’s seasonal offerings.

For Yoder, the fight to end hunger continues long after the ovens have cooled and his apron is off. Through Chefs Cycle, a fundraising endurance event, Yoder puts the pedal to the metal and helps raise money for No Kid Hungry and its mission to end childhood hunger. In May, the 2023 fundraiser culminated in a three-day, 300-mile race in Santa Rosa, California, where Yoder and other members of the culinary community pushed themselves to the limit for the cause. Yoder helped raise thousands of dollars, and it looks like the preparation for next year has begun—Yoder is already logging some major miles on his rider page.—MH

SUPER SUDS

For years, new brewers all said it: I brew what I like. But times have changed, and spots like SuperFly Brewing Co., which opened this summer at 943 Preston Ave., have changed with them. “The thing that excites me is drinkability,” SuperFly owner Ed Liversidge says. “But when a band writes a record, it’s hard for them to know what the hits will be. The fans decide that.”—SG

Through Chefs Cycle, Broadcloth's Tucker Yoder takes off to raise money for No Kid Hungry.

C’mon, get happy

Where to find your boozy bliss (at a discount)

Not all Charlottesville happy hours are alike—each bar/ restaurant is happy in its own way. From seriously gritty to spacious and luxe, there’s a range of options to keep a (slightly crooked) smile on your face.—ME

Alamo Cinema Drafthouse Glass

Half Full Taproom

M-F 4-7pm

Of all the gin joints in all the towns in the world, you could walk into this one at Fifth Street Station and find $6 appetizers, $4 craft draft pints, $5 glasses of wine, and Bogart-worthy cocktails. Easy parking. This could be the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

Beer Run (above)

M-F 3-6pm

Grab a stool inside for an afternoon pint ($1 off) with neighborhood regulars, or head to the patio (with kids and dog) to snarf the large nachos ($2 off) while easing into a glass of wine ($1 off). Low-key and lip-smacking.

Black Cow Chophouse

W-Sun. 4:30-6pm

A beef-lover’s Platonic ideal of a happy hour: $16 steak frites plus featured wines $8/glass, $32/ bottle, beer/cider $2 off, and $1 off classic cocktails. Upscale but homey.

Botanical Fare

W-F 5-7pm

Fresh and vibrant vegan paradise. $1 off cans of beer and zero-proof cocktails, $2 off glasses of

wine, $3 off cocktails, plus free umami potatoes (Wednesday, with purchase), $5 seasonal spritz (Thursday), and half off bottles of wine (Friday). Queer-celebratory, food allergy-friendly.

Brazos Tacos

M-F 2:30-5:30pm

Locals love the Texas-style tacos and familyfriendly spaces, and Brazos loves them back with $8 house margaritas, $5 frozen margaritas, $2 off beer, $2.50 select tacos, and all-day happy hour every day for health care workers.

Burton’s Grill

M-F 3-7pm

The Cheers of The Shops at Stonefield has a throwback appeal. $2 off draft beer, half off glasses of house wine, $4 well liquor, and $8 cheddar jalapeño sliders, buffalo chicken dip,

ELLI WILLIAMS

and General Tso’s wings. Inclusivity bonus: expert accommodation of dietary restrictions.

Dürty Nelly’s

M-F 3:30-6:30pm

Half off drafts. Two bucks off rounds. No food, just drinks. ’Nuff said.

Holly’s Diner

M-F 5-8pm

Funky and fun, a soft landing for introverts. Good food, drinks, and folks. $2 off drafts and wine by the glass, rail liquor $4 a pour.

Public Fish & Oyster

M-Sun. 4-6pm

Lobster rolls, oyster specials, yacht-rock friendly. Ahoy, matey!

The Quirk Lobby Bar

M-Sun. 4-6pm

The Wizard of Oz might hold court at the bar of this castle. Airy, artsy, sophisticated, and playful. $9 classic cocktails, $5 draft beer, $9 wine by the glass. Tuesday all-night happy hour, with live jazz from 6-9pm.

Restoration at Old Trail

T-Sat. 3-6pm

Caddyshack at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains. $4 bottles of beer, $5 rail drinks, $5 appetizers. For when you’re feeling country-clubby. No gophers allowed.

The Ridley

M-F 3-6:30pm

This Black-owned restaurant honors Dr. Walter Ridley, the first Black student to graduate from UVA. $4 off wine, $2 off draft beer, $2 rail liquor plus specials like Monday half off beer/ wine for health care workers, and Tuesday $12 burger night.

The Southern Crescent

Galley and Bar

Th-Sun. 5-6pm

A Creole-Cajun fantasy. Intimate bar inside; veranda, tin roof bar, fire pits, and cabanas outside. Virginia Oysters on the half shell $1.50/each, $8 cocktails (with fresh-squeezed juices and housemade syrups), $4 beer, $6 glasses of wine.

Tonic

M-F 4-6pm Twinkling lights surround the vine-covered patio. $5 draft beer, $8 wine, $10 cocktails, and the $10 featured sandwich. Tuesdays pack a Patio Punch ($5 carafes).

Umma’s (below)

T-Sat. 5-7pm

Woman-owned, queer-proud, Korean-Japanese restaurant with half-priced drafts and chuhais (shochu/fruit highballs), specialty and classic Japanese cocktails, and addictive Japanese-style chicken nuggets called karaage. Down-home and divine.

OUTDOOR DINING

Kardinal Hall

kardinalhall.com

Quirk Hotel Charlottesville rooftop quirkhotels.com/hotels/charlottesville

PIZZA Dr. Ho’s Humble Pie drhoshumblepie.com

Lampo Neapolitan Pizzeria lampopizza.com

QUEER-FRIENDLY HAPPY HOUR Umma’s ummasfood.com

FIREFLY Restaurant & Game Room fireflycville.com

RAMEN Umma’s ummasfood.com

Bad Luck Ramen Bar badluckramen.com

RESTAURANT Tavola

tavolavino.com South and Central southandcentralgrill.com

RESTAURANT BEER LIST

Beer Run

beerrun.com

Kardinal Hall kardinalhall.com

JOHN ROBINSON

LET IT RAIN (WHILE I ORDER ANOTHER ROUND)

Summer storms can roll up pretty quickly in central Virginia, causing many an al fresco happy hour to end in a hurry. When it rains at Kardinal Hall, the walls come down. Adjacent to its crushed shell bocce courts, the popular beer hall and game spot has erected a state-of-the-art patio cover that allows the fun to continue when the weather takes a turn. Using remote control, the roof can close and shades can be drawn on all sides to create a weather-resistant “room.” Temps drop? Heaters fire up. Too warm? Crack open the slatted roof to let it cool. The modern space remains roomy and comfortable for large parties with enough privacy to catch up with an old friend or charm a first date.—TK

SLICE OF HEAVEN

The closing of the much-beloved Pie Chest in March left a triangle-sized hole in all of our hearts, but we’ve noticed a not-so-new kid in town taking its place: Timberlake’s, the century-old drug store on the Downtown Mall, will forever take the cake—er, pie—for its pecan, its chocolate coconut, and its Kentucky Derby. And don’t forget to wash down your slice with an old-fashioned egg cream.—CH

TRISTAN WILLIAMS

MODERN JAPANESE C UISINE

We are truly humbled and grateful to receive this year’s Best of Cville Award, and for all of the continued support from our guests over the past year.

Get your mouthfeel on

THANKS TO A COUPLE OF BABIES, THE WINE GUILD OF CHARLOTTESVILLE HAS BEEN keeping locals expertly soused since 2008.

That’s when Ten Course Hospitality restaurateur Will Richey became a dad and (with friends) started a wine buyers club, so he could work from home. The Wine Guild grew a loyal following, and in 2019 culinary pros Will and Priscilla Curley (with local aficionados) bought the club, expanding it from a cramped spot in Belmont to a recently opened wine bar, club, and shop in Rose Hill. Just like Richey before him, Curley now gets to be a work-from-home dad, doting on both his 15-monthold and his other baby, the Wine Guild.

“We love our new home,” says Curley. “The upgraded space allows for drinking and snacking on site, a killer patio, and room for classes and guided tastings.”

Guild members receive discounts and access to special events, but the wine shop and bar are open to the public, offering a curated, sip-and-learn spot for experts and novices alike.

“You may wind up at a Guild tasting rubbing arms with local winemakers, tasting with true masters of the discipline,” says Curley. “And every wine pro that’s a part of the Guild is happy to share a lifetime of wine knowledge.”

The Guild offers (free) Champagne Thursdays and (buy your own) Spritzy Saturdays, the former a “weekly bubbles tasting,” and the latter a “celebration of the Saturday afternoon mindset: slowing down, having a sip of something relaxing and refreshing, and enjoying the vibes.”—ME

SUSHI Ten ten-sushi.com

Now & Zen nowandzencville.square.site

TACOS

Brazos Tacos brazostacos.com

Tacos Gomez facebook.com/tacosg

THAI

Monsoon Siam monsoonsiamcville.com Chimm chimmtaste.com

WINERY (LARGE)

King Family Vineyards

kingfamilyvineyards.com

Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyard pippinhillfarm.com

WINERY (SMALL)

Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyard merriemillfarm.com

Knight’s Gambit Vineyard knightsgambitvineyard.com

WINGS

Asado Wing & Taco Co.

asadocville.com

Lazy Parrot Backyard BBQ lazyparrotwingsandbrews.com

Eat, drink, and be merry with Wine Guild co-owner Will Curley in the club's new Rose Hill spot.

TRISTAN WILLIAMS

One more for the roads

ANDRE XAVIER KNOWS BOOZE TOURISM. AS OWNER OF CVILLE TOURS, HE’S SEEN what banding together can do for co-located breweries like those on Route 151.

So when Xavier helped open Patch Brewing Co. in Gordonsville, he got together with other purveyors of fine beverages and branded their alliance Route 231. Along with Patch, the founding members included Keswick Vineyards, Castle Hill Cider, Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyard, Early Mountain Vineyards, Barboursville Vineyards, Thistlerock Mead Company, Virginia Foothills Distillery, and the yet-to-open Southwest Mountain Vineyards.

Route 231 officially launched as a branded destination last April, and Xavier says the co-promotion has been successful, with several other wineries since joining the portfolio. He says that, in addition to bringing folks to one place for multiple tipples, Route 231 is about collaborating on best practices, sharing lessons learned and resources, and finding ways to give back to the community.

“What separates us is the diversity of our offerings, but also the commitment of our members to being stewards of the land and embracing agri-tourism,” Xavier says. “Alcohol obviously is the main thing, but the food, the culture, the way of life—those are all critical.”—SG

WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE

We’d never deny the appeal of grabbing a perfectly chilled glass of wine and parking ourselves on a patio to overlook a mountain view. But sometimes the best view is coming from … inside the house. Such is the case at Glasshouse Winery in Free Union, where you can enjoy your Brosé (a Barbera rosé, that is) in the tropical conservatory. Air-conditioned with seats in partial or full shade (i.e. your glass will be the only thing sweating), it’s a unique experience to be seated among a tangle of banana tree, birds of paradise, and fiddle leaf figs.—CH

JOHN ROBINSON

EZE AMOS

Make a visit to Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyard, a whimsical stop on the Route 231 beverage trail.

From wine shop to home store, these 20 spots are spree-worthy.

Thanks,

GRANOLA. TAFFY. DOG TREATS. MIXES. PEPPER JELLY. PEANUTS. T-SHIRTS.MAGNETS. POTTERY. PHOTOGRAPHY. CHEESE STRAWS . JAMS. APPLE BUTTER. CANDY. CHOCOLATES. GREETING CARDS. TEA TOWELS. TOTES. HATS. SYRUPS AND HONEY. COOKIES. SEASONING. MARINADES. CHUTNEY. BBQ SAUCE. . KEY CHAINS. GIFTS. RECIPE BOOKS. HANDMADE SOAPS. TRIVETS COASTERS.MUGS. NAPKINS. FLAGS. POST CARDS. GIFT BASKETS. NOTE CARDS. POTATO CHIPS. ORIGAMI. . BUTTER MINTS. FREE GIFT WRAP. APRONS. COOKIE CUTTERS. CARAMELS. JEFFERSON CUPS. . UVA STUFF. BUMPER STICKERS. EVERYTHING.

C-Ville! We’re nuts for you too.

ANTIQUE STORE

Circa

circainc.com

Heyday Antiques & Vintage heydaycville.com

CBD/MEDICAL MARIJUANA VENDOR

Greener Things

greenerthings.care

(tie) Albemarle Cannabis Company

albemarlecannabiscompany.com

The Hidden Leaf hiddenleafcville.com

CHAIN GROCERY STORE

Wegmans

wegmans.com

Trader Joe’s traderjoes.com

CONSIGNMENT STORE

Darling x Dashing

Boutique

shopdarlingxdashing.com

Natalie Dressed nataliedressed.com

FLOWER SHOP

Hedge Fine Blooms

hedgefineblooms.com

Don’s Florist & Gifts

donsfloristandgifts.com

GIFT SHOP

O’Suzannah

osuzcville.com

The Virginia Shop

thevashop.net

CONTINUED ON PAGE 87

Country store

THE BATESVILLE MARKET HAS BEEN THE HEART OF THIS LITTLE TOWN SINCE THE 1880s—it’s seen so much traffic over those decades, the front entrance’s wooden step has been worn away to the sill. Kristen Rabourdin bought the store for $1 in 2020, when the then-owners needed to move on but wanted to ensure the store stayed open for the community. Rabourdin had moved to Batesville in 2004, and loved the place. “This store is an extension of everyone’s living room,” she says.

During the pandemic, the market became a lifeline for the community (“grocery delivery services don’t come out here,” she notes). Rabourdin took the slower times as an opportunity to build an outdoor patio/performance space, which now hosts live music (from Irish and bluegrass to The Pollocks) and special events like Batesville Apple Butter Weekend and Oktoberfest.

The Market’s kitchen prepares breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and caters as well. There’s plenty of grab-and-go food and drink, and shelves filled with local wines, ciders, snacks, and specialty foods (like The Little Things shortbread buttons from Belmont’s Found. Market Company). Don’t forget to browse the jewelry, pottery, wooden crafts, notebooks, and cards, as well as the soaps and creams from Afton Mountain Apothecary. Hanging above the bar is a double row of beer glasses and steins, many of them individually labeled for the Batesville Mug Club (“We’re the No. 1 beer bar in Batesville,” Rabourdin jokes). As the store’s current owner, she sees herself as part of a long tradition. “People come in and say, ‘I came here as a child.’ Many of the local kids come here to get their first job—I’m not going to turn them away. I’m a steward until the torch passes.” CD

Talk about a good buy: Kristen Rabourdin nabbed The Batesville Market for $1 in 2020.

Suit up

These shops are keeping C’ville’s men stylish

Charlottesville’s men sure know how to dress to impress, and local stores are here to help them put their best foot forward. What follows is a list of a few of our favorite clothiers, outfitters, and haberdasheries that carry menswear of every size, style, and budget.

The Men’s & Boy’s Shop

410 E. Main St., Downtown Mall

Whatever the occasion—a summer wedding in Sare, prom, or a mandatory court date— The Men’s & Boy’s Shop can help you find the perfect fit. The locally owned establishment, which has been in business since 1920, stocks modern and traditional clothing, ties, hats, gloves, and more from brands like Ralph Lauren, Barbour, Florsheim, Hart Schaffner Marx, and Armin Oehler, with free alterations for life.

Dashing 115 S. First St.

You can always score a sweet secondhand find at Dashing, the masculine counterpart of Darling Boutique. Browse casual styles from contemporary brands, statement fashion pieces from highend designer labels, seasonal staples like swim trunks, and more, including athletic wear, bags, and shoes.

Eljo’s Traditional Clothes 1067 Millmont St.

Diehard UVA sports fans can take their gameday fits to the next level at Eljo’s. The longstanding shop specializes in custom made-to-measure suits and sport coats, and its officially licensed UVA line includes polos, belts, suspenders, ties, blazer buttons, cuff links, and more.

Kulture Vibez 3918 Lenox Ave.

This urban streetwear boutique opened in the middle of COVID, and has been steadily catching steam ever since. Shop here for modern styles and fashionable loungewear that you can dress up or down. Cool graphic tees, shorts, and sweatshirts are always in stock from brands including Kilogram, Original Penguin, and Effectus Clothing. Before you leave, slip into a pair of Air Jordans and pose in front of the photo op wall.

Quattro Tizi 946 Grady Ave.

For all the latest fashions and trends, head to Quattro Tizi, a contemporary men’s and women’s clothing and lifestyle shop. You’ll impress in trendy tees, chic chinos, and swanky sunglasses from labels like Rag & Bone, Faherty, Veja, and Shinola.

Low 105 Fifth St. SE

Style is cyclical, and Low’s got the vintage goodness you need for a closet rewind. The massive underground space is a denim-lover’s dream, with plenty of perfectly worn blue jeans, jackets, and vests, alongside charming sweaters, sick tees, cool hats, broken-in shoes, and jewelry.

Rethreads 1716–1718 Allied St.

This multi-room boutique is full of eclectic apparel for modern- and vintage-lovers. With size and gender inclusive options, and everything from preloved, vintage, and new with tags, there’s something for every size, style, and budget. Go in for the short sleeve cotton button downs, and leave with a rare vintage find.

High Tor Gear Exchange 1717 Allied St.

If you’re an athletic-wear-all-day kinda guy, check out High Tor Gear Exchange’s selection of lightly used menswear. Snag a cozy fleece in the winter, and colorful swim trunks in the summer, from name brands like Columbia, Eddie Bauer, Patagonia, Lululemon, and Nike.—MH

Find on-trend men's and women's clothing at Ian Dillard's Quattro Tizi.

KEEP GROWING

When Charlottesville native Daisa Granger Pascall started We Grow with two others in 2021, she couldn’t have imagined that, by the middle of the following year, she’d be at the helm of the Scottsville shop solo. But the store continues to thrive. The full-time art teacher pours herself into creating beauty in many forms, through her work at Leslie H. Walton Middle School—and through We Grow. The downtown shop hosts regular classes—terrariums! bonsais! bouquets!—and partners with other local organizations on floral-centric events.—CH

Community business

AS THE OWNER OF BEEHIVE EVENTS, A FLOWER AND DÉCOR BUSINESS she launched in 2006, Shawn Cosette is no stranger to beautiful things. But it was during a trip to Germany with her husband that she settled on her next career move, and launched a new business venture in 2019.

“We were in Munich and I just ran into this store,” Cosette says. “I think I visited three or four times, and I looked at my husband and said, ‘This is it. This is what I want to do.’”

Be Just, which recently relocated from Belmont to Ivy Road, has two main objectives: selling beautiful, durable pieces, and being part of a community. In addition to offering lasting pieces—you’ll find copper kitchen appliances, storage containers, handwoven baskets, and more on the store’s shelves—Be Just hosts classes ranging from flower arranging to mixology. Cossette also hosts the Sunday Supper Series, a monthly dinner event at her farm.

A business owner since the age of 24, Cossette doesn’t shy away from taking chances, and she speaks to the amount of work it takes to be an entrepreneur. “If you’re not physically working, you’re thinking about it all the time,” she says. “I definitely think I have that entrepreneurial spirit, and can’t imagine any other scenario.”—CG

CONTINUED

EZE AMOS

OUTDOOR GEAR STORE

Great Outdoor Provision Company

greatoutdoorprovision.com

High Tor Gear Exchange hightorgearexchange.com

PET SUPPLY STORE

Crate & Marrow facebook.com/crateandmarrow Animal Connection animalconnectionva.com

Relics to relish

EVER BEEN TORN BETWEEN THE PURCHASE OF AN OFFICIAL, VINTAGE MUG FROM The Lion King and a seven-piece Victorian cruet set? Or maybe it’s that Cypress driftwood sculpture, which would fit your decor perfectly. Heyday Antiques & Vintage is a charming, well-curated indoor marketplace with plenty to offer. The store is a collective of 18 vendors who stock and style their own unique shops within an Allied Street warehouse space.

“We want to be different,” says co-op member Laurel Lorigan, who has been selling in two stalls— one vintage and one formal antique—for five years.

That difference manifests naturally throughout each vendor’s thoughtfully organized lot. A stroll through Heyday offers equal parts time travel, discovery, and nostalgia, as shoppers peruse extensive book collections, paintings, furniture, and even a set of high-heel shoe forms, all sourced from travels, yard sales, and family attics.

Lorigan says she started selling as a way to support her own shopping habit, and Heyday’s unique, tasteful selections from the past are sure to support ours. See what’s new and old at heydaycville. com, and follow along at @heydaycville.—TK

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 87

JEWELRY STORE

Tuel Jewelers

tueljewelers.com

Andrew Minton Jewelers

andrewmintonjewelers.com

LOCAL FURNITURE STORE

Circa

circainc.com

Habitat For Humanity ReStore

cvillehabitat.org

LOCAL HOME IMPROVEMENT STORE

Martin Hardware

martinhardwareinc.com

Habitat For Humanity ReStore

cvillehabitat.org

NURSERY/GARDEN STORE

Fifth Season

Gardening

fifthseasongardening.com

Ivy Nursery

ivynursery.com

PLACE TO BUY A CAR CarMax carmax.com

Carter Myers Automotive cartermyersautomotive.com

RECORD STORE

Plan9 Music

plan9music.com

Sidetracks Music sidetracksmusic.net

SECONDHAND SHOP Circa circainc.com

Twice is Nice twiceisnicestore.org

VINTAGE CLOTHING STORE

Arsenic & Old Lace

arsenicandoldlacevtg.com

Low Vintage facebook.com/lowlifevintage

WINE SHOP

Market Street Wine marketstwine.com

Wine Warehouse winewarehouseinc.com

TRISTAN WILLIAMS

It's a great day for Hey Day.

Rick and Diana Beyer, Owners of R.L. Beyer Custom Homebuilders

Your dream. Our passion. Exceptional experience.

Thank you for voting us #1 Home Builder.

We are always so grateful to be recognized for our work, but above all else, your satisfaction and support mean the world to us. Building custom homes in the Charlottesville Area since 1984

#cvillebuilders info@cvillebuilders.com

If you’ve got the money, they’ve got the time (and skills).

for being such a wonderful place to live for my wife, Jenn, and I along with our daughters!

“We HIGHLY recommend working with Paul!

As first time home buyers we found Paul to be extremely helpful, always very patient with us and explaining everything we would ever need to know (and more) about buying a house. He was very responsive to all of our needs and went above and beyond what we expected. He truly cared about finding us a home that we’ll love. Working with him felt like having a friend find us a house, he was incredibly easy to talk to, and just a super nice guy.” -- Nate S

“Paul was extremely helpful while my husband and I bought our first home with a VA loan. He was willing to work with us even when we were our of state. Paul is very knowledgeable about the Charlottesville area and buying/selling in general. He always informed us of best and worst case scenario and made sure we made the best decision for us. He always answered timely and made sure we had the answers we needed. I also appreciate how he made sure both of us were included in the process, not just my husband because he was “the man.” I recommend Paul to anyone looking to buy a home, especially first time buyers and military/veterans.” -- Kim B. “Paul is the best! Extremely knowledgeable of the process and all the ins and outs of Charlottesville. Would highly recommend him to anyone buying or selling in the area!” -- Grant M.

“Paul did an excellent job helping us sell our townhome in Charlottesville. His knowledge of the area helped us set the sell price to what the house is worth, and he made sure potential buyers would know the essentials of the house, neighborhood, and immediate area. Thanks again for all your help Paul!” -- Jeroen D

ACTIVIST/HUMANITARIAN Zyahna Bryant

@zysaidso

Jason Elliott

@zeroexqses

APARTMENT COMPLEX

City Walk Apartments

citywalkapartments.com

Stone Creek Village Apartments

stonecreekvillageapts.com

ARCHITECTURE FIRM VMDO vmdo.com

Bushman Dreyfus Architects bdarchitects.com

ASSISTED LIVING/ RETIREMENT COMMUNITY Westminster Canterbury

westminstercanterbury.org

The Lodge at Old Trail lodgeatoldtrail.com

BANK

UVA Community Credit Union

uvacreditunion.org

Truist truist.com

BARBERSHOP Chung’s Barber Shop

chungs-barber-shop.edan.io

House of Cuts Barber Studio houseofcutsbarberstudio.com

CONTINUED ON PAGE 101

Bringing resources to a rural community

THE HISTORY OF THE B.F. YANCEY SCHOOL COMMUNITY CENTER BUILDING SPANS more than six decades. The building was a segregated school until 1967, when it became a desegregated Albemarle County Elementary School. In 2019, The Yancey Community Center opened its doors, and since then it has offered countless opportunities to area residents.

Yancey Community Center Program Coordinator Ed Brooks knows the impact the building has had on the Esmont community: His mother attended the segregated school, and his three children recently graduated from its elementary. Now he helps organize and run the dozens of programs and opportunities available, including those that focus on the center itself, such as the current exhibit about the building and community’s history, “African American Education in Esmont: Making a Way Out of No Way.”

The programs and resources available at Yancey Community Center include yoga classes, a food pantry, a community garden, and a basketball court, and it partners with agencies ranging from Piedmont Virginia Community College and the Jefferson Area Board for Aging to the Blue Ridge Health District and Friends of Esmont to provide even more.

Thanks to the many new services and opportunities at the center, “I think people are beginning to now say, ‘Wow, the county is really stepping up this game to provide equal services to the urban ring residents as well as to the rural,’” Brooks says. “It has meant a lot in terms of helping people to think of themselves as full-fledged county citizens.”—CG

Sew fine

IT WAS A FEW DAYS BEFORE PROM, AND A CHARLOTTESVILLE HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR was worried. The full-length, midnight-blue dress she ordered online had finally arrived—and, even with three-inch heels, it dragged on the ground. So her mom reached out to her regular tailor, “and they told me I was too late, that there was no time to shorten the dress,” she says.

On the recommendation of a friend, the pair turned to Kim’s Alterations on the Downtown Mall. Not only did a quick fix save the day, er, night, but the work was beautiful, says the mom. “We were thrilled!”

And the mother and daughter are not alone. According to Alicia Henry, Kim’s “is the best.” Henry says she’s shown up at the York Place shop with “everything from 1920s breeches to modern linen dresses, and [the tailor takes] care of it all with such precision. She [even] helped me with a design idea—repurposing a vintage bustier using 1940s crepe fabric—and she nailed it.”—SS

CAR REPAIR SHOP

Bob’s Wheel Alignment

bobswheelalignment.net

Peacock Auto Service

peacockautoservice.com

CLEANING SERVICE

Monster Cleaning Services

monstercleaningcville.com Charlottesville Sanitary Supply Corp. cssvac.com

CONTINUING EDUCATION

OLLI at UVA olliuva.org

Piedmont Virginia Community College pvcc.edu

CONTRACTOR

HandyMike handymike.com

Peter Johnson Builders

peterjohnsonbuilders.com

DAY SPA

The Spa at Boar’s Head Resort

boarsheadresort.com

Oasis Day Spa & Body Shop oasisspacville.com

EYEBROW STUDIO

The Brow House

waxcharlottesville.com

Stone Fox Beauty Project

stonefoxbeautyproject.com

EZE AMOS

Kim's Alterations' owner Myong Kim keeps us in stitches.

We are primarily local agents with decades of sales experience, and thorough market knowledge. Agents who believe that helping you in the sale of property, or the purchase, requires the highest levels of integrity and honesty.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 101

HAIR SALON

Moxie Hair & Body Lounge

moxiehairlounge.com

Bristles Hair Design & Day Spa

bristles.com

HEATING/AC

Albemarle

Heating & Air

albemarleheating.net

Robertson Electric robertsonelectric.com

HOMEBUILDER

Charlottesville Area Builders

cvillebuilders.com

Southern Development Homes southern-development.com

CONTINUED ON PAGE 107

JUST BLOOMIN’ GREAT

The best thing about receiving a flower delivery is, well, everything—the idea that someone thought about you enough to order you a beautiful bouquet, the smell that lingers through the house as soon as you bring the arrangement to the table, the fact that roses even exist in this broken world. But, like many of the best things in life, flowers don’t last forever, so it’s definitely not a gift that keeps on giving—unless it is? At Hedge Fine Blooms, a three-month subscription will run you $255, and afford you (or someone special) a bundle of blooms on your doorstep each month.—CH

Where the pen is mightier

“EVERYBODY HAS A STORY TO TELL.” THAT’S THE CORE BELIEF OF WRITERHOUSE, ACCORDING to its Executive Director Sibley Johns. And while anybody can be a writer, not everyone has the tools to tell their stories and share them with the world. WriterHouse bridges that gap with writing classes and seminars aimed at storytellers of any level of experience or professional know-how.

The idea for a communal writer’s space was born in a local coffee shop (naturally). Once a week for more than three years, a group of writers would gather to workshop ideas, share drafts, and talk shop. In 2008, they founded a space devoted to that process, one that could foster an entire community of writers. Today, WriterHouse offers courses and seminars on writing fiction and memoirs, how to find an agent, and navigating the world of publishing—in addition to co-sponsoring author events, readings, and workshops throughout the year.

And their instructors speak from experience. Emily Thiede took her first courses at WriterHouse in 2015—now she’s its vice president. Her debut novel, This Vicious Grace, was one of Oprah’s top 25 fantasy novels of 2022. But her first manuscript didn’t immediately get picked up; she had to regroup at WriterHouse and work on new ideas before finding success. “The writers who tend to succeed are those who refuse to quit trying while continuously seeking out and accepting critical feedback along the way,” Thiede says. “It takes a bit of arrogance to believe that your words deserve to be in front of readers, but this field is too challenging to pursue without that belief, so embrace it—you are your first and greatest champion.”—RD

BARBERSHOP MARKS 100 YEARS

To commemorate a century in business, His Barber Shop cut it up in April with a barbershop quartet, snacks, and visits from veteran barbers of 50 years. Founded in 1923 by Albert Staples as Staples’ Barbershop, the Barracks Road mainstay is now owned by Chris Bryant, who was also the shop’s first woman barber.—RD

WHAT’S THE BUZZ?

“Save the bees!” they say. “It’s important!” they say. But how does one actually do such a thing, if you’re only a budding apiarist? That’s where the Central Virginia Beekeepers Association comes in. Founded in 1982 by two long-time beekeepers, the organization helps novices with classes, monthly idea-exchange meetings, and local events (check the group out at the Albemarle County Fair). Members will connect you with an experienced mentor and, even if you’re not interested in beekeeping, they can help you find someone to safely remove a swarm if you have one.—CH

HOUSE PAINTER

Ramos Painting

ramospaintingllc.com

The Paynes Of Painting

thepaynesofpainting.com

INSURANCE AGENT

Hunter Wyant (State Farm) hunterwyant.com

John Smith (Bankers Insurance) bankersinsurance.net

INTERIOR DESIGNER

Purple Cherry Architects

purplecherry.com

Casey Eves Design caseyevesdesign.com

INTERNET PROVIDER Ting

ting.com

Firefly fireflyva.com

LANDSCAPING COMPANY

Dos Amigos

Landscaping

dosamigoslandscaping.com

J.W. Townsend townsendlandscape.com

LASER HAIR REMOVAL

Signature Medical Spa

signaturemedspa.com

Charlottesville Skin and Laser Center cvilleskinandlaser.com

Manager Kevin Armstrong says His Barber Shop is “truly a last-of-its-kind."

AMOS

-Leo

YOU SAID IT BEST!

“It’s clear that Story House has built their business based on learning from each experience, and they integrate many lessons learned from what is certainly a unique process for each sale. Everyone at SHRE was positive and uplifting, and they are constantly mining gems out of every interaction. We’re truly grateful for Story Houses' efforts in our home sale!”

-Alison & Steve

BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY

THANK

Our team here at Story House strives to provide the best service and best experience for our clients. We aim to delight and surprise, deliver exceptional service, and exceed expectations at every step of the transaction.

START YOUR NEXT STORY WITH US!

VA

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

A book for everyone

The Free Book Bus gives children and adults access essential items

Nearly five years ago, Sharon Stone turned the page. With one kid in high school and the other going off to college, she decided to do something that would eventually touch many children’s lives.

“I got the idea [for The Free Book Bus] one day, and I ambitiously made the website and the Facebook page that day, even though I didn’t have a bus,” Stone says. “My husband’s super into buying vehicles online, so he sold his truck so we could buy our first bus.”

The Free Book Bus provides a wide array of reading material, ranging from children’s board books to books at an adult reading level. There’s something everyone, with a sports section, graphic novels, nonfiction, and more. Books also come in a variety of languages, including Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Dari, Nepali, Swahili, Spanish, and French.

After an influx of refugees to the Charlottesville area last year, Stone bridged a need gap by publishing a coloring book called Welcome to Charlottesville, which was translated into seven languages. To help teach English, the book goes through the ABCs of Charlottesville (of course, B is for Bodo’s).

In addition to books, The Free Book Bus provides personal hygiene products, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, and other items that Stone says “bring joy” to the bus’ visitors. After receiving requests for perfumes and makeup, Stone now offers lipstick, Bath & Body Works cologne, and sheet face masks. Visitors on the bus can take one book and two personal care products.

While there is no formal volunteer program, Stone sometimes receives extra help. Faith Cabell began working on The Free Book Bus in 2020. Cabell had lost her favorite book in a house fire,

found another copy aboard the bus, and soon after, started helping Stone.

Now, Cabell shows up whenever The Free Book Bus visits her neighborhood, which is typically the second Wednesday of every month. Besides reminding children of when the bus will arrive, she also helps kids select the books they’d like to read. “When I see children see something that they particularly want, and they’re happy and they’re smiling, that’s most rewarding,” Cabell says.

In addition to the tremendous impact The Free Book Bus has left on the greater Charlottesville community, it’s reached other states, as well. Stone has spoken with someone who’s starting a bus in Kentucky, and people have approached her about franchising the nonprofit or rolling out buses in nearby counties. For now, though, Stone will continue changing children’s lives in the Charlottesville area, one book at a time.—CG

All aboard The Free Book Bus, where you can find everything from books in Swahili to bars of soap.

LAWYER OR LAW FIRM

Royer Caramanis Attorneys

rc.law

Samantha Freed

(Tremblay & Smith) tremblaysmith.com

MARKETING/GRAPHIC DESIGN STUDIO

Hive Creative Group

hivecreativegroup.com

(tie) Journey Group journeygroup.com

Mountain High Media mountainhigh.media

MASSAGE

The Spa at Boar’s Head Resort

boarsheadresort.com

Silver Lining Day Spa silverliningdayspa.com

MEDICAL SPA

Nua Medical Spa

nuamedspa.com

Signature Medical Spa

signaturemedspa.com

MORTGAGE LENDER

Atlantic Bay Mortgage Group

atlanticbay.com

Atlantic Coast Mortgage

atlanticcoastmortgage.com

Back to nature

WHEN IT COMES TO BURYING OUR DEARLY DEPARTED, MOST OF US KNOW WHAT to expect: embalming chemicals, expensive coffins, concrete vaults, and other things that may not be so good for the environment.

But is all that really necessary?

If you ask Stephanie Bonney, the answer’s a hard no. Green burial is “a more responsible way to take care of the Earth—the planet we live on,” says Panorama Natural Burial’s general manager.

During a Panorama green burial, no toxic embalming chemicals are used, and bodies return to the earth in biodegradable boxes or burial shrouds, because “we are only introducing materials that nature can use to nurture new life.” Bodies are buried at three-and-a-half feet, where “soil is more nutrient rich, and organisms are better at doing their jobs.” (And in case you’re wondering, there’s never been a reported case of a naturally buried body being dug up by predatory animals—the farthest they dig into soil is 12 inches.) Simple river rocks, set flush to the ground with a name and birth and death years, marks the graves.

“We’re essentially going back to that principle in Judeo-Christian tradition, which is literally ‘dust to dust,’” says Chris Murray, whose family has owned Panorama Farms in Earlysville for 70 years. With the “current conventional funeral burial practices, the body basically never turns to dust.”—SS

NAIL SALON Tips & Toes

Nail Salon

tipsandtoesnailsalon.org

Lee’s Nails facebook.com/lees.nails.54

NONPROFIT

Habitat for Humanity

cvillehabitat.org

Twice is Nice

twiceisnicestore.org

Inside CARS

After 20 years with the rescue squad, CARS Chief Virginia Leavell is still supporting the Charlottesville community

Since her first call to the CharlottesvilleAlbemarle Rescue Squad as a kid, Chief Virginia Leavell knew that emergency medicine would be a big part of her life.

“I was in Charlottesville having breakfast with my grandmother and she went into cardiac arrest,” says Leavell. She called 911 and soon the CARS volunteers arrived. “They actually gave me a job to do—holding an IV bag— and I think that really stuck with me.”

During her time at the University of Virginia, it was this experience that drew Leavell to join the rescue squad in 2003. After graduating with a degree in psychology, it was the rescue squad that made Leavell decide to stay in Charlottesville rather than return to her hometown of Belfast, Maine. “It was just such an important part of my identity, and the place where I felt the most purpose,” she says. “There’s a strong sense of belonging within the crews and the organization as a whole.”

Now in her third term as chief, Leavell is finding new ways to help the Charlottesville community as a whole, including through the CARS Community Accessible Resources Education and Support program. From opioid overdoses to firearm injuries, CARS CARES aims to identify areas experiencing higher occurrences of specific risk factors and provide appropriate training for people in the area. “Spending more time in those communities that have the highest risk factors so that we become trusted by others, so that they are not going to hesitate to call 911 … they have an idea of what’s going to happen and who’s going to show up,” Leavell says. “Making that more accessible we hope will improve outcomes overall.”

Between her role as chief of CARS and her work with the Albemarle County Fire Rescue Community Risk & Resilience division, Leavell spends a lot of time thinking about emergency response. “The only way I fit everything into a day that needs to be fit is wearing those multiple hats at the same time, and trying very hard to take those hats off when I get home,” she says.

Leavell’s entire family is involved with CARS, including both of her children and her partner, who serves as the organization’s medical director. “My youngest was 5 days old when he attended his first board meeting with the Charlottesville-Albemarle Rescue Squad,” says Leavell.

Growing up around the rescue squad, both of Leavell’s children—now 6 and 15 years old—are involved with the volunteer organization. While her older child enjoys helping with outreach events teaching about NARCAN and Stop the Bleed training, her youngest “loves to practice CPR on everybody.”

“In a lot of ways it’s sort of bringing the family into the fold,” says Leavell. “I think that I’ve just been incredibly lucky to segue so much of that into my professional work.”—CR

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 111

OVERNIGHT STAY

Quirk Hotel Charlottesville

quirkhotels.com/hotels/charlottesville Boar’s Head Resort boarsheadresort.com

PET SERVICES

All Things Pawssible allthingspawssible.com

Animal Connection animalconnectionva.com

PHOTOGRAPHER

Alisa Foytik

(Pura Vida Photography) puraphoto.com

Sarah Cramer Shields sarahcramershields.com

PLACE OF WORSHIP

The Point thepointva.com

St. Thomas Aquinas University Parish stauva.org

PLUMBER

W.E. Brown webrown.com

The Otter Guys calltheotterguys.com

REAL ESTATE AGENT

Brentney Kozuch

(Story House Real Estate) storyhousere.com

Ashley Palmer (Town Realty) towncville.com

Calling 911 when her grandmother went into cardiac arrest left a big impression on Virginia Leavell. Now she's the chief of the Charlottesville-Albemarle Rescue Squad.

REAL ESTATE COMPANY

Nest Realty

nestrealty.com

Story House Real Estate storyhousere.com

RENOVATION/REMODELING COMPANY

HandyMike handymike.com

Peter Johnson Builders peterjohnsonbuilders.com

SOLAR COMPANY

Sigora Solar sigorahome.com

Tiger Solar tigersolar.com

TATTOO/PIERCING PARLOR

ACME Tattoo & Piercing

acmetattooandpiercing.com

Ben Around Tattoos benaroundtattoos.com

VETERINARY CLINIC

Old Dominion Animal Hospital

olddominionanimalhospital.com

Georgetown Veterinary Hospital gvhvets.com

WAXING STUDIO

The Brow House

waxcharlottesville.com

European Wax Center locations.waxcenter.com/va/ charlottesville

Building connections

IF YOU’VE EVER STARTED A HOME-IMPROVEMENT PROJECT, PUT TOGETHER FURNITURE, or wanted to test drive a new hobby, you know how frustrating it can be when you don’t have the tools you need. Rather than buying new every time, the Cville Tool Library lets its members “check out a tool like a book.”

Since opening its doors at space 13 in the Visible Records building, the library has acquired more than 500 tools—from wrenches and hammers to arbor presses and pruning saws—available for its members to borrow. Started by a group of friends on Zoom, the Virginia Organizing work project lent out its first tool in March 2022 and has grown rapidly over the last year. Most of the tools have been gifted to the volunteer-run library, but more specialized equipment has been acquired through member contributions and donations.

Because some of the tools can be dangerous, safety training is required before borrowing any equipment, and membership is only available to adults in the Charlottesville and Albemarle area. Don’t worry if you’re not the handiest—on top of lending equipment, the library hosts community workshops and classes for the uninitiated.—CR

THE BLOOM TRIO

thebloomtrio.com

thebloomtrio@gmail.com @thebloomtrio

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Mountain View Homesites Available from the $600’s Pick Out All of Your Interior Selections in Our Design Studio OPEN DAILY 12-5 | (434) 218-2352

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Villa Model in Old Trail Village | 406 Astel St, Crozet, VA 22932

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Thibaut-Janisson was born from a long friendship that began in a Grand Cru village in the Champagne region of France and continues today in Blue Ridge Mountains of Charlottesville, Virginia.

Thibaut-Janisson Winery | Charlottesville, Virginia | (434) 996-3307 | claude@tjwinery.com

n “This is the perfect place to shop for beautiful jewelry. Not only is the merchandise of the highest quality, but the staff also provide reliable and friendly customer service.”

n “Great to have a family owned jeweler that you can trust with fair pricing and answers to your questions.”

n “Outstanding pieces to choose from and a staff that goes beyond our needs. Our daughter, daughter-in-law, and our grandchildren wear his jewelry.”

RUNNER-UP

Your special day’s secret weapon: A list of quality vendors.

12 PASSENGER TRANSIT LIMOUSINE

The Transit Limousine has all the luxury you have come to expect from a standard limousine, but with enough room for everyone. This is the perfect vehicle to enjoy Charlottesville’s many wineries and breweries with friends and family.

(804) 313-7270 harrisonburgstrings@gmail.com melodiousstrings.com

Melodious Strings is a group of professional string musicians who perform for wedding ceremonies, cocktail hours and receptions, business events, and a wide array of other types of events in the Shenandoah Valley, Richmond, Northern Virginia, Maryland, Washington D.C., and beyond. We specialize in providing elegant and professional string quartets, trios, duets, soloists, and other types of string ensemble music for events and venues.

47–55 PASSENGER MOTOR COACH

The Motor Coach is the largest vehicle type in our fleet. We have two sizes of Motor Coach, 47 Passenger and 55 Passenger, both of which are ideal for large groups. These vehicles enable you to transport a significant number of passengers at one time

25 PASSENGER MINI BUS

Our Mini Buses are great vehicles for medium sized groups. These 25 Passenger vehicles, with their large viewing windows and individual seating, are a great way to tour the local area or shuttle guests from one location to another.

BACHELOR/BACHELORETTE CELEBRATION SPOT

Quirk Hotel

Charlottesville

Rooftop

quirkhotels.com/hotels/charlottesville

Veritas Vineyards and Winery veritaswines.com

CAKES AND DESSERTS

Cake Bloom cakebloom.com

Cakes by Rachel mycakebyrachel.com

CATERER

Harvest Moon

Catering

hmcatering.com

The Catering Outfit cateringoutfit.com

CEREMONY MUSICIAN

The Bloom Trio thebloomtrio.com

Melodious Strings melodiousstrings.com

EVENT RENTALS AND MANAGEMENT

MS Events

mseventscville.com

Skyline Tent Company skylinetentcompany.com

FLORIST Hedge Fine Blooms

hedgefineblooms.com

Don’s Florist and Gifts

donsfloristandgifts.com

Vivid new venues

From rustic retreats to marvelous manors, these four wedding spots will suit your fancy

With its scenic Blue Ridge Mountains backdrop, abundance of greenery, and plethora of stunning locales, the Charlottesville area has long been a popular wedding destination. For couples looking for the perfect place to tie the knot, these four new venues will likely fit the bill.

Situated just south of Charlottesville in Nelson County, Rockfish Ranch is a leafy, mountainous retreat overlooking its namesake Rockfish River. After two years of transforming the former vacation property into a rustic venue, the ranch hosted its first wedding in the summer of 2022. Rockfish boasts a range of on-site amenities, including large indoor and outdoor spaces, lodging, a sauna, fire terraces, and several ceremony and celebration spots for up to 250 guests during wedding season, or 20 guests throughout the rest of the year.

Tucked into the forests and rolling hills of Louisa, family-run Avonlea Farms has hosted weddings and special occasions since 2020. Surrounded by stunning foliage and delicate landscaping, the farm has several ceremony and reception sites, including a vintage glass greenhouse on a private lake and a 250-year-old oak tree, and can host up to 200 guests, depending on the location. With un-

limited site visits, a complimentary mimosa bar on the big day, a range of complimentary decor choices, and more, Avonlea Farms provides its guests with numerous amenities.

Located on UVA’s Darden School of Business grounds, The Forum Hotel in Charlottesville is a venue of choice for more than just University of Virginia alumni. The luxury hotel boasts over 40,000 square feet for its events, with several ceremony and reception sites available both inside and out. For catering, the venue offers a range of creative food and drink menus, and will customize options if desired. Able to host up to 700 guests and offering a wedding room block deal, The Forum is a good choice for those with a longer guest list.

Just outside the city in the Farmington neighborhood, historic Gallison Hall is a large but cozy estate with a range of unique features. Designed by original owners Julio and Evelyn Galban, Gallison Hall is a 12,728 square-foot Georgian manor on more than 40 acres of private land, and is able to host up to 200 guests. With views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and ornate and intentional indoor and outdoor architecture, Gallison Hall offers a gorgeous backdrop for any wedding.—CR

DEAR LOVERS PHOTOGRAPHY

Gallison Hall—with its pool pavilion, rose garden, and perfect-for-dancing outdoor patio—makes it even easier to say, "I do."

In the air

THIS YEAR HAS BROUGHT SOME OF OUR FAVORITE WEDDING TRENDS—BRIGHT colors are back, biodegradable confetti is in, and aerial shots are taking photography to new heights. Using a drone, photographers and videographers can capture never-before seen angles of your ceremony or reception set against Charlottesville’s scenic vistas, vineyards, and venues. Whether you’re looking to add cinematic elegance to a video, or an editorial spread to an album, here are a few of our favorite drone photographers you can find up in the air.

Aaron Watson Photography. This family-owned photography team are aerial pros. Their vibrant, timeless style is perfect for capturing the area’s natural grandeur, and their shots are seriously breathtaking. aaronwatsonphoto.com

Meredith Coe Photography. A local photographer with 11 years of experience, Meredith Coe can cover all angles of your big day. “A drone shot elevates, in all senses of the word, your wedding visually,” says Coe. “Artistic large prints in your home or a full two-page spread in your album is always jaw-dropping.” meredithcoephotography.com

Silver Streak Weddings. If you’re looking to include aerials in your wedding reel, Silver Streak Weddings have shot at local venues like The Wool Factory, Castle Hill Cider, Mount Ida Farm, and King Family Vineyards. silverstreakweddings.com

Film and Flourish. Andrew Gilford of Film and Flourish turns love stories into movies. His videos are something special, with documentary-like storytelling and tons of aerials. filmandflourish.com MH

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HAIR STYLIST

Posh Bride

poshbrideva.com

Top Knot Studio topknotstudio.com

MAKEUP ARTIST

Posh Bride

poshbrideva.com

The House of Beauty (formerly Bridal Bar) houseofbeauty18.godaddysites.com

PROPOSAL SPOT

Carter Mountain

The Farmhouse at Veritas veritasfarmhouse.com

REHEARSAL DINNER VENUE

The Local thelocal-cville.com

Tavola tavolavino.com

TRANSPORTATION

Albemarle

Limousine

albemarlelimousine.com

Ambassador Limousine ambassadorlimos.com

WEDDING MUSIC

Sam Hill

Entertainment samhillbands.com

DJ Derek Tobler djtobler.com

CONTINUED ON PAGE 131

Wedding in a box

THIS IS IT—YOU’VE FOUND THE ONE! YOU’RE READY TO HOLD THE CEREMONY in which you tell each other, your families and friends, and the world that you are beginning a new life together, and you want the occasion to be perfect.

But to get there, you face months of decision-making—finding a venue, choosing vendors, negotiating calendars, cross-checking every detail—and signing lots of checks.

“Weddings are wonderful, but they’re still a pain to plan,” says Adam Healey, founder and CEO of new wedding firm Novela. “It’s hard to know what things cost and who’s good. The vendors all have different offerings and terms of service. And it’s also expensive.”

Healey started Novela in January 2022 to help couples navigate this process: “We see ourselves as a wedding concierge.” Novela does the up-front market research and pre-vetting in order to connect its clients with venues and suppliers that fit their style—and their pocketbook. The goal, says Healey, is to connect the right couple with the right partner for the perfect wedding.

Novela begins with an intake interview to go over what the couple wants, what they need, and what they want to spend. The firm then develops a customized list of recommendations for wedding planners, venues, caterers and a host of other services. The plan provides three options for each category—all pre-qualified to make sure they fit the budget and have availability for the couple’s date. “And we’re there to help guide you through the entire process,” says Healey.—CD

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 129

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

Jen Fariello

jenfariello.com

Meredith Coe Photography meredithcoephotography.com

WEDDING PLANNER

Just A Little Ditty

justalittleditty.com

Hannah Rose Event Design

hannahroseeventdesign.com

WEDDING VENUE (LARGE)

Mount Ida Farm

mountidafarm.com

Keswick Vineyards

keswickvineyards.com

WEDDING VENUE (SMALL)

Quirk Hotel

Charlottesville

quirkhotels.com/hotels/charlottesville

The Bradbury

thebradburydowntown.com

PERFECT PETALS

The bouquet is one of the most fussed-over details of any wedding, but it’s also the thing that often gets forgotten or—worse yet!—tossed at the end of the night.

Self-professed “flower fanatic” Karly Murphy of Kmpressed offers a solution: Press them! The artist began pressing plants in 2015 after working in weddings and events with Nature Composed, and says it’s a great way to hold on to your bouquet long after the sparkler exit.—CH

JEN FARIELLO

A wedding at The Wool Factory brings an edgy, modern aesthetic to your big day.

Thank

C’

BEST OF C'VILLE

FINALIST:

Wedding Photographer

Family Photographer

Let’s

SOCIAL: @JILLMERIWETHERPHOTOGRAPHY

WEBSITE: JILLMERIWETHER.COM

INSTAGRAM WEBSITE

The power of music

Eve Watters uses songs and stories to teach, to heal, and to connect

For Eve Watters, making music is a vocation. “The songs, the stories I tell—they have been passed along for generations,” she says. “These are stories out of time, an invitation to that place where the world opens up without boundaries.”

As a child growing up in New York State, Watters loved fairy tales and storytelling. At age 13, she taught herself to play the guitar. She left home at 18, and headed to England. But it wasn’t until a near-death health crisis in her 20s that she found her calling. “I just knew—I need to be a singer,” she says. “By then I had two children, in London, far from home. I had done some small performances, I was still so shy … but you know, the universe helps us.”

After a few years, she found herself in Charlottesville, a single mother hustling for work as a performer. This was the 1990s, and Watters managed to get a regular gig at the upstairs room at The Muse (now Miller’s Downtown). She began branching out—performing at other venues like the Boar’s Head Inn’s Old Mill Room and the Clifton Inn, playing at private events like weddings, and doing mini-concerts and workshops in educational settings, including schools, libraries, and museums.

Along the way, Watters’ devotion to storytelling and the oral tradition has led her to become familiar with a wide range of cultures and instruments. After harp study in Ireland, she plays (and teaches) the harp in a variety of styles— neo-Celtic, medieval, Renaissance and Baroque; she also plays recorder, Appalachian dulcimer, autoharp, banjo, and Native American flute. Her folk songbook ranges across English-speaking and European nations, and into this mix, she weaves stories from the traditions of America and Native America as well as Europe, East and South Asia, and Africa.

“I look for stories across cultures, and I know when it’s a story for me,” Watters says. “I feel like there’s really only one story, and all stories are a part of it. I find most people are starving for that kind of connection.”

While Watters has several themes for her programs, she is an intuitive and improvisational performer. “I’ve developed an aptitude for read-

ing the room,” she says. “One of my assets is a wide range of music, so I always mix it up, and people love it.”

While she loves to connect people through songs and stories from other times and cultures, Watters is also committed to the healing power of music. One of her credentials is as a certified music practitioner, specifically trained to provide live acoustic music to aid in healing and transition—unlike a music

therapist, who is trained to use music as a mode of treatment.

“There’s a lot of research on the therapeutic benefits of music—the actual physical vibrations produced, like the harp does,” Watters points out. As a CMP at UVA Health Systems, Hospice of the Piedmont, and several hospitals around the area, her role is “to see if the patient needs [me to provide] energy or calming. They may be in an acute situation, or healing, or they may be actively dying. Sometimes familiar music is good [because it is] tied to their past or their cultural context … or I may play unfamiliar music when the patient is letting go.”

Whether she is providing comfort and healing, exposing children to other cultures’ stories, or bringing a wedding celebration together, Watters says, “I’m going to put my heart into it. I love playing what will really connect with people.”—CD

“I feel like there’s really only one story, and all stories are a part of it. I find most people are starving for that kind of connection.” EVE WATTERS

SARAH H0USTON PHOTOGRAPHY

We

your

Charlottesville dealer for Hart Schaffner Marx suits, sportscoats, and tuxedos, both on the rack and custom.

We carry Armin Oehler shoes made from only the finest leather, and available in multiple styles. Wedding

Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital

It takes a village—and we’ve got the greatest one there is.

DAYCARE Bright Beginnings

Preschool

brightbeginningsva.com

YMCA Early Learning Center piedmontymca.org

FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER

Sarah Cramer Shields

sarahcramershields.com

Jen Fariello jenfariello.com

KID-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

Dairy Market

dairymarketcville.com

FIREFLY Restaurant & Game Room

fireflycville.com

KIDS’ CLOTHING STORE

Kid to Kid

kidtokid.com

Whimsies whimsieskids.com

KIDS’ PARK

Pen Park

charlottesville.gov

Greenleaf Park charlottesville.gov

MUSIC LESSONS The Front Porch

frontporchcville.org

Stacy’s Music

stacysmusic.com

CONTINUED ON PAGE 147

It’s our home too

LIKE NEW YORKERS WITH THE EMPIRE STATE BUILDING OR WASHINGTONIANS WITH their monument, Charlottesville residents may only visit UVA when guests come to town. Fortunately, the University Guide Service offers a free, hour-long historic tour of the Lawn area daily during the academic year, providing a whole different perspective on our company town.

UGS student volunteers go through a semester-long training program to develop one tour geared to UVA applicants, and another version for visitors, tourists, and locals interested in learning more about the history of the university.

“Everyone thinks UVA and Jefferson,” says rising third-year John Beddell, current UGS chair. “People are amazed at how much history we cover.” They are also surprised to learn that UVA’s founder and architect died after serving only one year as its president.

The guides aim to tell a complete story—not just about the Academical Village, but also about the enslaved laborers who built and worked on Grounds; UVA’s development in the context of Charlottesville’s history; and efforts over the years pushing for change at the institution. A tour focusing on UVA’s Black history is offered every Sunday afternoon. Specialty tours can also be requested—the history of women at UVA, children’s tours, or large-group tours.

But—no surprise to area residents—no tours are offered on days with home football games.—CD

ARTY PARTY

If you have a budding Jackson Pollock on your hands (or just a kid who likes to make a mess, aka all kids), there’s nothing better than a place that can turn chaos into creativity. The Art Bar’s splatter room does just that. Your little one suits up in protective gear, then goes to town on a blank canvas hanging on the wall. Whether it’s abstract expressionism or total confusion is your call. Either way, a window into the room provides a peek at your tiny creative genius in progress.—CH

TRISTAN WILLIAMS

DAN ADDISON / UVA COMMUNICATIONS

Painting the town

There’s something for everyone at McGuffey Art Center

For artists and art appreciators alike, McGuffey Art Center is the place to be. Housed in a former elementary school (the classrooms were transformed into studios, galleries, and a gift shop), the artist-run cooperative was established in 1975, and celebrates all things creative, with exhibitions, classes, workshops, camps, and more.

“The City of Charlottesville leases this historic building to McGuffey at a discounted rate as part of its commitment to making art of all kinds—visual arts, dance, music—accessible to the public,” says McGuffey Art Center Operations Manager Bill LeSueur about the space that is home to more than 45 renting artists and 100plus associate artists.

From individual artist spotlights to all-member shows, McGuffey’s galleries include a wide variety of work, such as L. Michelle Geiger’s “Flotsam,” which shows how discarded and recycled materials can be transformed into stunning ocean scenes, or the annual Summer Group Show that features recent work from both renting and associate members.

“In addition to members’ work, McGuffey’s exhibition schedule makes room for other groups in our community, including area high schools and The Charlottesville Black Arts Collective,” says LeSueur.

Classes offer creatives of all ages an opportunity to expand their skills in a wide range of mediums, from ceramics and painting, to fiber arts and performance arts (to name just a few). Whether you’re trying out a potential hobby or are an experienced artist, classes like Drawing Essentials and Introduction to Machine Sewing offer adults and older teenagers an opportunity to build their skill sets.

For younger artists, a variety of courses engage participants’ imagination. While most of McGuffey’s classes are meant for children 5 years and older, Blue Ridge Music Together is a year-round gathering for children from birth to kindergarten. Five- to 12-year-olds can try their hands at sculpting, drawing, and painting, or attend one of the center’s many summer camps.

Outside, the center paints its love for the arts with two rotating mural projects: Karina

Monroy’s La Cultura Cura; Somos Medicina covers McGuffey’s north wall with vibrant butterflies and pomegranates that decorate the entryway, while the Red Shed Mural Project, showcasing the work of Laura Lee Gulledge and her students from the 2021 Street Art Camp, delights with swirling hues, neon green, and pink flora, all branching along an amorphous blob on the building’s, well, red shed.

Post-pandemic, McGuffey has continued its virtual offerings, which are available online. Check out the center’s figure drawing video or watch one of the numerous artist talks or poetry readings. Throughout the summer, the cen-

ter also hosts Thursday Evening on the Lawn, which has something for everyone, with music, dancing, life drawing, open artist studios, and food trucks.

Later this year, McGuffey holds its annual Día de los Muertos celebration. “Organized by member Estela Knott in 2011 along with a number of groups in the community, this joyful holiday brings hundreds of volunteers and participants together for a day of prayer and remembrance of friends and family who have come before,” says LeSueur, who adds: “We are a community of artists dedicated to practicing our art and to passing on the creative spirit.”—CR

COURTESY MCGUFFEY ART CENTER

Calling all budding artists: McGuffey Art Center has inspiration for all ages.

PAGETURNERS

Calling all bookworms. Er, more specifically, nature bookworms. In January, with the help of its Junior Naturalists, Ivy Creek Foundation added a Little Free Library to its regular offering of walking trails, wildflower gardens, and educational opportunities. Located in the parking lot of the Ivy Creek Natural Area and Historic River View Farm, the lending library includes nature education books and Charlottesville- and Albemarle-related Black history books.—CH

GREAT ESCAPES

Puzzle junkies, history buffs, and wannabe sleuths will all find something to challenge them in Unlocked History Escape Rooms. Check out The British Are Coming, the room that started it all, or take flight in The Raven, a more macabre challenge based on the works of Edgar Allan Poe. Oh, and don’t forget to reserve in advance.—CR

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 143

PEDIATRICIAN

Karyn Wolfe (Pediatric Associates of Charlottesville)

charlottesvillepeds.com

Morgan Newsome (Pediatric Associates of Charlottesville) charlottesvillepeds.com

PLACE FOR FIRST EAR-PIERCING

ACME Tattoo & Piercing

acmetattooandpiercing.com

Pediatric Associates of Charlottesville charlottesvillepeds.com

CONTINUED ON PAGE 149

TRISTAN WILLIAMS

Escape Room co-owner Philip Riese creates a uniquely Charlottesville experience in McIntire Plaza.

STAFF

PHOTO

Sponsors Richard and Judy Nunley have helped award hundreds of Golden Apples to our community’s best and brightest educators since the program’s inception.

PHOTOS BY ROB GARLAND

PLACE TO THROW A KID’S BIRTHDAY PARTY BOUNCE

Play-n-Create bounceplayncreate.com

Decades Arcade decadesarcade.com

PRESCHOOL

ACAC Preschool acac.com

St. Anne’s-Belfield School stab.org

PRIVATE SCHOOL

St. Anne’s-Belfield School stab.org

The Covenant School covenantschool.org

SUMMER CAMP

Triple C Camp tripleccamp.com

Brooks Family YMCA piedmontymca.org

TOY STORE

Shenanigans

shenanigans.toys

Alakazam

alakazamtoys.com

TUTORING

Dr. Dawn Anderson

Math Tutor LLC

drdawnanderson.com

Clayborne Education clayborne.com

Into the woods

LILY CASTEEN WAS 7 YEARS OLD WHEN HER PARENTS ENROLLED HER IN ARC Natural History Day Camp, on the back acres of Panorama Farms in Earlysville. Now in her 20s and a wildlife conservation major at Virginia Tech, Casteen says the summers she spent at “mud camp,” first as a camper and then for seven years as a counselor, were instrumental in setting her on her current career path.

“I’m now doing exactly what I was doing there,” but on a bit larger scale, says Casteen, who’s in Alaska this summer, surveying a threatened species of ducks. “I learned so much from Kevin, and from the other people around me.”

“Kevin” is Kevin Murphy, a retired science teacher who’s been the camp’s director for 33 of its 38 years. The goal of ARC Natural History Day Camp is to “teach young people how to be observant, inquisitive, sensitive, and resourceful.” And discovery is imperative: Every day, campers explore a different habitat—pond, creek, meadow, or forest—“to see what each area has to offer.”

One of the most important lessons, recalls Casteen, is to “leave no trace. When you turned a rock over in a stream, you had to turn it back the way it was. I still do that.”

Sponsored by the garden clubs of Albemarle, Rivanna, and Charlottesville (hence the ARC in its name), the camp runs for two weeks every June, rain or shine, because everyone knows that exploring woods and streams is even more fun when you’re soaking wet and covered in mud.—SS

RUNNER-UP

BEST HOBBY SHOP

Taste of the Mountains is always the Saturday before Labor Day

Solutions start in the South.

We are the Southern Environmental Law Center, one of the nation’s most powerful defenders of the environment, rooted right here in the South. As lawyers, policy and issue experts, and community advocates and partners, we take on the toughest challenges to protect our air, water, land, wildlife and the people who live here. Together, we can solve the most complex environmental challenges right here in Virginia.

SURROUNDED BY HISTORY

A hidden gem nestled in one of Charlottesville’s most charming historic neighborhoods, Oakhurst Inn is an intimate boutique hotel conveniently located just steps away from the University of Virginia. Experience luxurious accommodations, delectable cuisine, an inviting ambiance, and picturesque surroundings. A place connecting visitors and locals alike.

YOUR SOURCE FOR Live Music

Use QR Codes to access venue calendars.

ON THE DOWNTOWN MALL

Anchoring the east end of the Historic Downtown Mall, this 4,000 capacity venue has been welcoming national touring acts to its stage since 2005. Some highlights from 2023 include Robert Plant & Alison Krauss, Trombone Shorty with Mavis Staples, Noah Kahan, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats and many more!

This historic Vaudeville theater turned movie house, began new life as a premier music venue in 2009. Recent artists like Yo La Tengo, Big Thief, Railroad Earth, Blues Traveler, Illiterate Light and 49 Winchester – along with other national and regional acts – routinely rock audiences of up to 800 people.

Playing host to local, regional and national touring artists over 150 nights per year, this subterranean club is small and intimate, with a capacity of up to 300. Locals know it’s the popular place to catch artists on the rise: Billy Strings, Marcus King, Black Pumas, SOJA and Caamp have all graced the stage.

Tristan Williams

Jack Looney

Tristan Williams

BEST FOR LAST

Spreading the LOVE

There are many ways to say “I love you.” Here in the 434, we use wine corks, hay bales, lattice, and ski helmets. Charlottesville’s contribution to Virginia Tourism’s Virginia is for Lovers LOVEworks campaign is vast and varied— not to mention extremely Instagrammable. These snaps from locals and tourists alike have us feeling the love.

@ALKA_CHELSER

@BRAVINGTHESOUL

@JOECARRICK

@JULESINVIRGINIA

@KORTNIKAE

@MATTANDMANDIKINDOFLOVE

@MISSJOANNAC

@PH.IN.VA

@VIRGINIANWITHLOUISIANAROOTS