UVA’s international students face shifting visa rules P.9
Raise a slice of princess cake—ABC marks 30 years P.27
Public health official Jen Fleisher steps into the spotlight— and the ballot box
Hotel updates around town (hint: They're on the rise) P.13
Hello, Charlottesville.
Thank you for reading C-VILLE Weekly.
7.30.25
There’s a moment in this week’s cover story (p.16) that stuck with me: Jen Fleisher, candidate for City Council, makes a comment about needing to put on mascara and drive the speed limit now that she’s in a more public-facing role. It’s a passing remark—funny, honest, easy to breeze by—but it says so much.
Obviously, mascara isn’t the most important thing about Fleisher. She’s smart, accomplished, and deeply engaged in the city’s future. But if you’re a person who wears makeup, especially one who’s ever had to show up in a public-facing role, you get it. The mascara is shorthand. It’s not just about makeup—it’s about shifting into a version of yourself that looks “prepared,” “polished,” “professional.” It’s the low-grade performance we’re all doing, even when we’re fully qualified and over-prepared.
That moment—relatable, wry, and real—might help explain why Fleisher resonated with voters in the June 17 primary election. Because while political campaigns can sometimes sand the edges off people, she’s showing up as herself. And that blend of competence and candor might be exactly what the job needs.
Hey, thanks!
These generous benefactors of C-VILLE have supported our work through our Save the Free Word campaign. If you’d like to contribute, follow the QR code.
Towns Ackerman
Susan Albert
Catherine Anninos
Lori Balaban
Timothy Bambury
Catherine Barnes
Julie Basic
Susan Battani
Jennifer Beachley
Mayanna Bean
Denise Benson
Anne Bergamesca
Rebecca Berlin
Kim Biasiolli
Patrick Bird
Paddy Bowman
Paul Brewer
Claudia Murray Brindle
Sumner Brown
Colette Brown
Jack Brown
Kate Buford
Cathleen Burgess
Patricia Burkett
Michael Callahan
Brian Carlton
Helen Cathro
Janelle Catlett
James Clark Jr.
Karen Collins
Emily Currier
Maria-Eugenia Dalton
Pam and Peter Dennison
Nancy Dettor
Martha Donnelly
Charlotte Drummond
Louise Dudley
Lee Elberson
Jane Elmore
Karen Emmitt
Ken Engebretson
Elizabeth Engle
Rosa Ellen English
M. Fife
Lavonne Fitts
Kevin Foley
Barbara Fornoff
Joan Forrest
Gerald Giammatteo
David and Janna Gies
Stephanie Goodwin
Cara Hall
Kendra Hall
Madeleine Hawks
Mary Haynes
Chris Hellings
Stephen Herrick
John Heyser
JoAnn Hofheimer
Lisa Hogan
Laura Horn
Christina Horton
Deb Jackson
Garth Jensen
Nina Johnston
Nicole Jones
Diane Jones
Janet Jospe
Brian Kelly
Trish Kenney
Tom Kirk
Kathryn Kluge
Julie Lacy
Marcia Langsam
Jacalyn LaPierre
Aaron Lawrence
Eric and Diane Lawson
Elizabeth Lawson
Frances Lee-Vandell
Sean Libberton
Angeline Lillard
Peppy Linden
Jessica Lino
D. Little
Phillip Long
Rob Lynch
Jeff Martin
Erin Mayer
Kieran Mcdowell
Mary McIntyre
Gretchen McKee
Ruth McWilliams
James Mernin
Nicolas Mestre
Tim Michel
Parthy Monagan
Vic Monti
Hilary Moorman
Michael Morency
Harold E. Morgan
Michael Moriarty
Catherine Moynihan
Jim Mummery
Karen Myers
Monica Newby
Kathy O’Connell
Dennis O’Connor
Cynthia Van Osch
Annette Osso
Annette Owens
Timothy Palmer
Joe Peacock
Elizabeth Perdue
Joann Peters
Damon Pettitt
Elayne Phillips
Anne Price
Ernest Pugh
Harry Purkey
Leslie Quenichet
Frances Racette
T. Radsky
Scott Ransom
Sarah Ratcliffe
Stots Reele
Marjorie Rein
Cindy Richards
Kevin Richardson
David Robinson
Julia Rubarth
Carol Gilbert Sacks
Audrey Sarate
Joan Schatzman
Sandra Schmidt
Eric Schultz
James Seitz
Elaine Shaw
Chuck Shelton
Paul Shettel
John Smith
Kristina Smith
Meredith Smoot
Mickey Speck
Maria Spence
Jim Spencer
David Stackhouse
Nichole Taylor
William Terrell
Emily Thiede
Reid Thompson
Prue Thorner
John Titus
Jessica Tobin
Erica Toy
Jill Trischman-Marks
Susan Uland
Rick Vergot
Christina Walker
Steven Ward
David Waters
Chris Waugaman
Phoebe Weseley
Kelly West
Gary and Anne Westmoreland
Jay Wildermann
Marcia Wilds
Andrew Wolf
Natalie Yancey
Suzanne Yeaman
Nura Yingling
Kelly Zalewski
Kathleen Zenker
Matthew Stoss made his C-VILLE debut romanticizing hotel bars. He’s been a university magazine editor for a decade. He’s profiled an Oscar winner, an Olympic bobsledder, a National Book Award winner, a Batman artist, a Michelin-star chef, a submarine commander, and the Smithsonian secretary. He lives in Richmond. Read his work on page 16.
Patrick McDowell is a student-athlete at Pomona College, majoring in politics, philosophy, and economics. As a student journalist, he has experience covering various topics, including recent federal impacts on higher education. Read his work on page 9.
RENEW & RADIATE
IN THIS ISSUE
FEATURE 16
Gotta run
Getting to know political newcomer Jen Fleisher.
Uncertainty and fear ontinue for UVA’s ernational students.
City hopes judge will reconsider tossing out new zoning code. : Lots of new el rooms on the horizon.
CULTURE 23
Emmylou Harris at avilion.
ABC turns 30; omato Fest; and the Omni’s
What’s on view
editor@c-ville.com
tami@c-ville.com
reporter@c-ville.com
ASSOCIATE CULTURE EDITOR
Rob Brezsny, Dave Cantor, Matt Dhillon, Carol Diggs, Shea Gibbs, Claudia Gohn, Mary Jane Gore, Maeve Hayden, Andrew Hollins, Erika Howsare, Matt Jones, Sarah Lawson, Kristin O’Donoghue, Lisa Provence, Sarah Sargent, Kristie Smeltzer, Jen Sorensen, Julia Stumbaugh, Paul Ting
The Big Picture Corrections
In our June 16 cover story, “15 Under $15,” we mistakenly said Will Richey founded Revolutionary Soup—he purchased it in 2005—and that there is still a location on the Corner. C-VILLE regrets the errors.
CONTACT US: P.O. Box 119, Charlottesville, Virginia 22902
WEDNESDAY, JULY 30
International uncertainty
UVA’s international community preps for the upcoming year BY PATRICK MCDOWELL
NEWS UVA
International students at the University of Virginia are facing new questions and concerns this summer following a barrage of updates and changes under the Trump administration.
According to UVA’s International Studies Office, there were 2,236 international students in the 2023-24 academic year, including 845 Chinese citizens and 63 students from other countries who are now facing travel bans or restrictions. The restrictions, which prohibit residents of the listed countries to apply for or renew existing visas, were implemented in a June 4 Presidential Proclamation and affect travel for residents of 19 countries, including Afghanistan, Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Myanmar, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen.
International students from other countries, particularly first-time visa applicants or those requiring visa renewals, have faced additional hurdles this summer, including a nearly month-long pause on visa interview appointments before they were later resumed under new State Department guidelines. The guidelines called for increased scrutiny of social media profiles in an effort to address national security threats.
Chinese students—who remain the largest group of international students at UVA— have encountered erratic information about their status, including threats to “aggressively revoke” student visas, according to a cable from Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Trump announced a reversal of the order just two weeks later, following a trade agreement with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
In a statement to C-VILLE, Steve Mull, UVA’s vice provost for global affairs, said, “We have been in regular contact with [our international students] over the past semester to advise them on updates to rapidly shifting developments in U.S. immigration law and have made resources available to help them address individual questions, and we will continue to do so.”
Mull also noted that, at press time, no international students at UVA have lost their immigration status.
While one current international student and two recent alumni in optional training programs had their immigration status revoked in April, all have since had their status reinstated.
Despite the international community at UVA being spared some of the status revocations seen at other universities, many students remain concerned about the fluid nature of their status in the United States.
“For me, I’ll probably just change my plan to go back [home] during winter break when my visa is still valid or just wait until I graduate,” said an international student who spoke on condition of anonymity.
IN BRIEF
All the news you missed last week (in one sentence or less)
Beyond travel, some international students remain concerned following the administration’s highly publicized detention of and status revocation for international student protesters.
“Last year, we had some protests … I didn’t even dare to walk by,” the student said. “The police were there and in that case, as international students, we don’t have our parents beside us and we don’t have anyone who [has] our back. The school was not backing us at that time, so if I wanted to do something, that’s very dangerous for me.”
When asked what plans are in place to protect international students’ right to protest, the university did not respond.
UVA’s federal information website asserts its commitment to free speech and academic rights for all students, yet notes that “the University has no obligation to provide individuals with legal counsel in any lawsuits or enforcement actions that may arise from things they have said or done in their capacity as private citizens.”
As many of these issues remain unresolved, some international students are now weighing the value of studying in the United States. Uncertainty surrounding student status and funding cuts to research initiatives has led some to consider going elsewhere for graduate studies, the student told C-VILLE.
If these considered departures from UVA and other universities across the United States come to fruition, it could create holes in previously vibrant oncampus communities.
“UVA deeply values our international students as integral members of our community who substantially enrich us with their scholarship, perspective, and friendship,” Mull said.
For the international student and his peers, the various student associations at UVA have been integral pieces in navigating the college experience abroad. Looking forward, he hopes these student groups can build bridges between international and domestic students to create a more connected university.
Charlottesville resident Trevious T. Sandridge, 33, facing multiple charges after fleeing traffic stop and being found with illegal drugs and a sawed-off shotgun. Secretarys Road closes temporarily due to overturned fuel truck. University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business severs ties with two DEI-related programs amid federal pressure. Jane P. Batten gives UVA’s School of Education and Human Development $5 million to expand access to teacher education. A 267-unit apartment complex on Seminole Trail receives approval from Charlottesville Planning Commission. City Market closes early July 26 due to heat. Phillip Salkowe charged with seven counts of assault and battery after allegedly attacking people during a St. Paul’s Memorial Church service. UVA announces 28-person committee, including Olympic gold medalist Gretchen Walsh, to select next president. UVA launches new study using “magic mushrooms” to treat prolonged grief.
Steve Mull, UVA’s vice provost for global affairs, says the university “deeply values” its international students.
UVA’s International Residential College
DEVELOPMENT
Happy returns
The Trump administration released more than $5 billion in education grant funding to states on July 25, including nearly $100 million to Virginia.
The grant money will support programming for migrant education (Title I-C); professional development (Title II-A); language instruction for English learners and immigrant students (Title III); and student support and academic enrichment (Title IV-A).
According to a spokesperson for the Virginia Department of Education, the state was awarded $98,123,750 for its Title I-C, Title II-A, Title III-A, Title IV-A, and adult education programs, in addition to the previously released $23,329,977 for after-school and community learning center programming.
“This announcement demonstrates Virginia’s strong track record of federal money being released and delivered, which ultimately allows school divisions to continue putting federal dollars to meaningful use and directly support the academic success of every student,” said Emily Anne Gullickson, Virginia’s superintendent of public instruction.
City and county schools expected to lose $417,000 and $660,000, respectively. Potential federal cuts were part of budget discussions earlier this year, given the national- and state-level scrutiny of school districts continuing diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. With the grants restored, the districts’ budgets are back in balance ahead of the upcoming academic year.
“During this review period, VDOE has provided individual and personal outreach to school divisions and partners to ensure alignment on next steps,” said a VDOE spokesperson via email. “In the meantime, school divisions are encouraged to continue reviewing opportunities to maximize the use of funding to support students.”
Dispersal of funds was expected to begin this week. Catie Ratliff
Next move
Charlottesville wants judge to reconsider ruling that threw out new zoning code BY
SEAN TUBBS
Since February 2024, Charlottesville has processed dozens of land use applications under a new zoning code intended to increase the number of housing units in the city.
All of that work was placed on hold June 30, when Circuit Court Judge Claude Worrell entered a motion of default judgment because a law firm working for the city failed to file a document by a May 21 deadline.
Now the city has asked Worrell to reconsider.
“Gentry Locke apologizes to the Court for this inadvertent mistake and stands accountable for it,” reads a motion filed on July 22.
The city argues that a default judgment is not appropriate because attorneys at Gentry Locke were actively preparing for a June 2026 trial on the plaintiff’s claim that the city did not satisfy state requirements to ask the Virginia Department of Transportation for an analysis of the effect the new zoning would have on roads.
“The city is prepared to present evidence on the merits of the defense,” the motion continues. “That evidence will show that any traffic impacts caused by the City’s thenproposed did not rise to the level that required the City to submit the ordinance to VDOT for comment.”
The plaintiffs have not yet filed a response. A hearing has been set for August 13.
The motion is part of Charlottesville’s strategy to put the new zoning back in place as soon as possible. On July 21, City Council voted to refer the voided development code to the Planning Commission for a public hearing within 100 days.
“Initiation ensures city staff and elected officials can respond swiftly to readopt the development code if the need arises,” said Matt Alfele, Charlottesville’s development planning manager.
On July 11, the city announced that it would resume taking new applications, though Worrell’s ruling prevents them from being processed.
Four applications have been filed so far, including two tree removal permits. One of them is a major development plan for 501 Hedge St., and the site plan filed by Shimp Engineering shows a total of six units on the
undeveloped 0.08-acre property. The new zoning for the property is Corridor Mixed Use. The previous zoning would have allowed only one fill unit and one accessory structure. Justin Shimp said he thinks the city’s path forward is a good one and he is hoping the 2024 code will be reinstated.
“I can see wanting to wait until the dust settles a bit before starting anything new from scratch, but we have so many projects that were already well on their way it makes sense to push those along,” Shimp said in an email.
The plaintiffs have until August 6 to respond to the city’s motion to reconsider.
A six-story building at 1000 Wertland St. would have 180 units, all of which would be income-restricted. However, review is on hold because the city’s zoning code was voided.
Very nice Townhouse in convenient River Run. New roof and gutter leaf filters. Well maintained. Easy access to town and Penn Park. Easy walking distance to the Community pool.82
REAL ESTATE NEWS
Home away
A look at planned hotel rooms in the Charlottesville area BY
SEAN TUBBS
The number of hotel rooms under construction in the United States is at a five-year low, according to data collected by the company CoStar. The publication Construction Dive reports that the number of rooms being built decreased 11.9 percent year over year in June.
While the exact data for Albemarle and Charlottesville is not available, one commercial real estate analyst said strong regional tourism explains why at least some new construction is being planned.
“There is still interest in the hotel sector, with notable projects of course being the upcoming AC downtown as well as extended stay projects such as the new Extended Stay America hotel that delivered this year on Berkmar Drive,” said Jenny Stoner, senior vice president at Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer.
The number of hotel stays in Albemarle and Charlottesville was about the same in the first four months of 2025 compared to the previous year, according to data shared by the local tourism office. The Charlottesville-Albemarle Conventions and Visitors Bureau reports occupancy at just above 70 percent in April, with an average daily rate of $190 per room.
There are currently 4,318 hotel rooms in Albemarle and Charlottesville, according to CoStar.
The executive director of the CACVB said that the local industry faces the same economic stresses as the rest of the nation, but that’s not put a halt to construction.
“The planning process can be long and involved, so we monitor it quarterly and in coordination with the economic development offices,” said Courtney Cacatian. “Ac-
cording to CoStar, there are six properties ‘under construction’ or in ‘final planning’ as of [July 28] in the region.”
In late May, the Charlottesville Board of Architectural Review granted design approval for a 156-room AC hotel at 218 W. Market St. on the site of Artful Lodger. The city must still sign off on a final site plan before the project can go to construction.
An Austin, Texas, company has filed a plan under the city’s new zoning to convert an office building at 116 W. Jefferson St. to a 12-room boutique hotel. The city has paused review of that application due to a legal halt of its zoning code. At some point, the BAR will need to take a look at the project.
Next spring, 214 rooms will come online at the Virginia Guesthouse, the new hotel and conference center under construction in the Emmet-Ivy Corridor. That will be operated by the University of Virginia Foundation, an entity that also runs the 168-room Boar’s Head Inn.
“More than just a place to stay, Virginia Guesthouse will serve as a ‘front door’ to the University, welcoming visitors from all over the world,” reads a description on its website.
Earlier this month, the Albemarle Architectural Review Board looked at plans for a 122-room Hyatt Studio to be built on Pantops on Richmond Road. That project had initially been proposed in 2020 but was delayed.
Two rezoning applications filed with the county seek permission to build hotels. One would be an 80-room building at Hollymead Town Center, though that request is on hold. The other is to allow lodging as part of the Sieg property off of U.S. 29 south of Interstate 64.
Annie Gould Gallery
109 S. Main Street, Gordonsville, VA • (540) 832-6352 anniegouldgallery
THE REALTOR CODE OF ETHICS
The city must still sign off on a final site plan for a 156-room hotel at 218 W. Market St. before the project can go to construction.
Even before Jen Fleisher became an official Charlottesville City Council candidate, she was a public figure—or at least a quasi public figure. Not public figure classic, but public figure lite.
A Virginia Department of Health official since March 2020, she led the Blue Ridge Health District’s mobile COVID vaccination efforts. Fleisher spoke often with the local news back then—and regularly in the five years since everyone discovered sourdough.
She spent 20 years playing upright bass in the country band Jim Waive and the Young Divorcees. They opened for, among other acts, Kenny Rogers, Randy Travis, one Everly Brother, and Dwight Yoakam. Fleisher still speaks covetously of Yoakam’s outfits.
“He had this incredible wardrobe,” she says during one of two long chats we had in recent weeks. “He had two rolling wardrobes. I was sitting there and they were open, and I was with my pedal steel player”— more of us should have pedal steel players—“and I was like rifling through the wardrobe.”
Who hasn’t been tempted by fringe? Back at the health department, where there isn’t much fringe for some reason, Fleisher’s day job also demands she present to City Hall, in the counties, and for various local deliberative bodies, including Charlottesville’s five-member City Council.
Right now, Fleisher’s overseeing the BRHD’s accessibly named Community Health Improvement Plan. This edition of the CHIP, refreshed every three years, has four prongs (that, not coincidentally, overlap with Fleisher’s policy priorities): improving transportation infrastructure and transit reliability; supporting healthcare workers; increasing internet access and technological acumen (especially in the district’s rural areas); and expanding mental and behavioral health treatment.
“At those meetings,” Fleisher says, “I heard a lot of times, ‘Oh, if you want that thing to change about transportation, that’s a City Council decision’ or ‘that’s a budget decision.’ ‘If you want this to change, you need to change that at the legislative level.’ And I was like, well, clearly I need to be involved with that if I want to make a difference.”
So she got involved.
Fleisher registered for the Democratic primary just 10 days before the deadline on March 17, which was also her 51st birthday and thus possibly a sign of providence. In June, during Charlottesville’s first go at ranked-choice voting, Fleisher won leisurely in the two-seat race.
With 18 percent of the city’s eligible voters showing up, she got a race-best 51 percent of the vote (3,184 votes) and unseated Vice-Mayor Brian Pinkston (13 percent)
ALL OR NOTHING
Campaign life doesn’t leave much room for nuance. Jen Fleisher’s trying anyway.
BY MATTHEW STOSS
OR NOTHING
Fireworks show from the top of Carter Mountain presented by:
on her way to the November 4 general election and becoming a real life, honest-to-Zeus public figure.
“As naive as this is going to sound,” Fleisher says, while considering her new local status a month later, “it didn’t occur to me how much pressure there would be in the role of the campaigner, in being public facing, because I’ve played a couple-thousand-seat venues; I’m on the news all the time for the health department; I’ve presented to City Councils and Boards of Supervisors. In COVID, we were in the national spotlight a lot—thousands of people looking to me to make decisions on vaccinations and how people would get vaccinated. I thought: ‘Okay, I’ve already paid those dues.’”
And yet…
“I find myself wearing mascara all the time and driving slower,” Fleisher says, laughing. “I feel like at any minute someone will call me out for something and I need to be prepared. … I don’t think I took too seriously how I felt under the public eye, under scrutiny— and I think more of it was in my mind, honestly.
“You get so many requests for press and you’re constantly being judged and criticized—you should be. Because I’m trying to apply for this job, and you are the public, and I am applying to you, and you should ask me the questions that you want answered and make sure I’m the right one for the job. I understand where that comes from. It’s just a very binary world, to be campaigning. There is little room for gray, which is what the world really is, and I found that a little disheartening, honestly. But also a little disarming.”
Fleisher is in her home office/music studio. It has wood-paneled walls like basements of a certain vintage, although this is not a basement. It’s just lit like one. Her husband, Jesse Fiske, has arranged guitars and basses like clerestory windows high across one wall. The desk from which Fleisher Zooms me can be stowed if anyone has the urgent need to jam.
A week later, we met in person at Barbie’s Burrito Barn, where little Frida Kahlo shrines really tie the interior design together. But it was sunny, so we had lunch outside at a picnic table under a tree.
Fleisher arrived punctually via electric bicycle. She’s about as tall as you’d think she’d be and has tattoos that wouldn’t look right on other people. Anne Rice might have described her eyes as “preternatural,” though I’m certain Fleisher’s not a vampire.
A 1996 University of North Carolina graduate, Fleisher majored in journalism and minored in music after a Mingus-centered childhood in the inland Fort Lauderdale suburb of Plantation, Florida, population nearly 100,000. She went back to UNC for a master’s degree in public health, graduating in 2019.
In between degrees, Fleisher taught photojournalism in Cape Town and did graphic design in Chicago. At the esteemed firm VSA Partners, Fleisher helped craft the look and feel of an early Aetna website and did some light and miscellaneous web work for Harley-Davidson.
She fled Chicago in 2001 after the dot-com crash. Her college roommate, a native Charlottesvillian, sold a spontaneous Fleisher on decamping to Virginia. Fleisher started a graphic design business here in 2004 (her campaign literature is homemade) and since then she’s lengthened her résumé, becoming a yoga instructor, then a prenatal yoga instructor, inevitably a doula and almost a midwife.
“I had a really poignant phone call with a woman who was a midwife who ran birth centers, but also had a master’s in public health from Harvard,” Fleisher says. “She was like, ‘I don’t know any midwives who can design their own website. I really think you should get into policy instead of clinical. You don’t really sound like a clinician to me. Like, can you imagine doing pap smears in a hospital all day long?’ And I was like, ‘No.’ And she’s like, ‘Plus, this guy Trump’s talking about running for office so we’re going to need a lot of policy.’ That was in the 2016 election.”
Fleisher had been on a nursing track. Today, she’s a veteran doula. She says she’s assisted with the births of about 150 babies and that in her prime she used to do two a month. Now it’s more like two a year, though she was on call for a birth during our lunch at Barbie’s. She had a burrito bowl and wore mascara.
“Yeah, I mean, I don’t like wearing mascara,” Fleisher says. “And driving slower—I found myself doing that because here I very much am trying to change the transportation system, right? I’m trying to get really upstream and make you healthier through better transportation. I couldn’t get a speeding ticket. I couldn’t be seen, you know, idling in a car in a parking lot for a long time.”
Fleisher means everyday basic stuff about public transportation, like prompt buses and bus stops with roofs, protected bike lanes, more/better sidewalks and crosswalks. Her philosophy, both life and political, is that life is public health and everything affects everything else.
“It’s all the pieces that we don’t consider,” Fleisher says. “[For example], if you delay developing this vaccine because you don’t convene the group that signs off on it, [then] six months later it’s flu season [and] I don’t have a vaccine. What happens if you’re immunocompromised? Is there now a run on vaccines? Can it only happen for people who can afford it? What does that do to, not only the working population, but the child-care and schooling population? Can kids go to school if they don’t get vaccines? And now what’s happening to the safety of our teachers and our staff?
“... There’s a lot of nuance in health and in population health and public health in general, and these very binary decisions are going to create a lot of nuanced problems, and we are going to be limited in what we can do to prevent or mitigate those problems, and that really worries me.”
Fleisher first thought of running for City Council in spring-ish 2024 while lamenting the limits of being a figure who is public, but not quite a public figure. As a health department official, she’s led a program to get free vaccinations and physicals for uninsured kids, whipped up help from local agencies and organizations to implement CHIP initiatives, and personally driven the mobile COVID vaccination RV. But she couldn’t get big policy stuff done (or fund it) without City Council.
“This was going to be the first ranked-choice election in Charlottesville and that seemed like a great opportunity,” Fleisher says. “If you’re going to jump in the game, do it when there’s ranked-choice voting. That was enticing. At home, my son’s 15. He can do his own thing. He can get himself everywhere on his
bike and he’s very self-sufficient, and my husband’s job has stabilized,”—Fiske is the facilities director for the Bread & Table restaurant group and the front man for the band Jesse’s House—“and as a family we were like, ‘All right, we’re each doing our own thing.’
“It seemed like I could have waited and really tested it out, but I think in running for public service, City Council, any kind of public service, it’s kind of like trying to decide when to have a child. It’s never a good time to have a kid. You never have enough money; you never have enough time. It’s the same.”
And so Jen Fleisher decided to go public. Officially public. She even, against her nature, heart, and soul, started posting on social media. Because you can’t run for elected office and not post on social media.
Fleisher’s now active, if only perfunctorily, on Facebook, Instagram, and Bluesky, but elegantly silent on LinkedIn. Instagram would be her grudging favorite, even if it requires mascara.
“It’s your self-awareness and it’s really your selfesteem, and you’ve got to manage both,” Fleisher says of running for office. “I had never thought before of what do I look like to you outside? Or how are the optics of this moment? Optics had never occurred to me before. In your real life, you don’t put your best foot forward all the time, right? You’ve got food in your teeth. You yelled at someone you didn’t need to. You slipped and fell—life is full of these bloopers that we generally take with a grain of salt, but when you’re under that microscope of the public eye, there’s less tolerance for that.
“That’s where that binary comes in. You’re either for or against this. You’re either for this platform or you’re against it. I found it very hard to say [clearly and concisely], ‘Yes, I’m for these things because I’ve seen these things go this way.’ … You really have to get down to capsulated microstatements so the press can publish it and the people can understand it and be very concrete all the time, and that I just found challenging because it’s not how you live your life when you aren’t under the microscope—am I not answering your question?”
She was. She’s just still new at being public figure classic.
Charlottesville’s incumbent Vice-Mayor Brian Pinkston did not secure a nomination for re-election in the June 17 primary.
Jen Fleisher oversees the Blue Ridge Health District’s Community Health Improvement Plan, which, among other things, works to support health-care workers and improve the city’s transportation infrastructure.
Being named to Forbes’ Best-In-State Wealth Advisors list for seven consecutive years is a testament to your experience, focus, and dedication to your clients’ financial future.
Thank you for the work you do each day and for carrying forward the standard of excellence at our firm.
Eric Parker, CFP® Managing Director—Wealth Management Wealth Advisor 120 Garrett Street, Suite 301 Charlottesville, VA 22902
Source: Forbes.com (Awarded April 2025). This ranking was determined based on an evaluation process conducted by SHOOK Research LLC (the research company) in partnership with Forbes (the publisher) for the period 6/30/23–6/30/24. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors paid a fee to SHOOK Research LLC for placement on its rankings. This ranking is based on in-person, virtual and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each Financial Advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes client impact,
nominations, and quantitative criteria, including assets under management and revenue
based on the opinions of SHOOK Research LLC and may not be representative of any one
team for their own situation and perform their own due diligence. This ranking is not
LLC is not affiliated with SHOOK Research LLC or Forbes. For more information, see
CULTURE
THURSDAY 7/31 THROUGH SATURDAY 8/2
FAIR PLAY
Agricultural celebration and old-time country living come together for three days at the annual Albemarle County Fair. Thursday’s events include a pageant, where kids compete in two classes: Around the Farm and Sunday Best. Friday features live music by Willow Branch and Timber Creek, with sets by Just Wingin’ It and Dark Hollow on Saturday. Livestock showcases, demonstrations of skilled labor like wool-spinning and blacksmithing, home arts, and agricultural wares, and the return of the Giant Titan Sunflower competition round out the schedule. $5, 4–9pm Thursday, 10am–9pm Friday and Saturday. James Monroe’s Highland, 2050 James Monroe Pkwy. albemarlecountyfair.com
STAGES CULTURE
Wednesday 7/30
music
Open Mic Night. Mic check to all musicians, poets, and everyone in between. All ages welcome. Free, 9pm. Holly’s Diner, 1221 E. Market St.
The Wavelength. Legendary drummer David Drubin joins Andre, Larry, and Wave on the patio for vintage rock, blues, and original tunes. Free, 6:30pm. The Whiskey Jar, 227 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thewhiskeyjarcville.com
The Wildmans. Talented musicians from the hills of Floyd, Virginia, making their way in the American stringband scene. Free, 7:30pm. The Southern Café & Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com
Yon O’Connor Trio. Unique Americana folk tunes. Free, 5:30pm. Keswick Vineyards, 1575 Keswick Winery Dr., Keswick. keswickvineyards.com
stage
Sense & Sensibility Experience the elegance and wit of Jane Austen’s classic. $33–68, 7:30pm. Blackfriars Playhouse, 10 S. Market St., Staunton. americanshakespearecenter.com
words
Ivy Talk: How and Why to Grow Hedgerows. Learn the history of hedgerows, their benefits, and how to plant them in your yard. Free, 6:30pm. Ivy Creek Natural Area and Historic River View Farm, 1780 Earlysville Rd. ivycreekfoundation.org
classes
Paint + Sip: Field of Fireflies. Learn how to paint the design in a step-by-step format, no experience necessary. Ticket includes an 11×14-inch canvas, all painting supplies, and one beverage. $40, 6pm. Pro Re Nata, 6135 Rockfish Gap Tnpk, Crozet. blueridgebrushes.com
Wickedly Fun Wednesdays. This week’s activity: Cupcake decorating. Materials and snacks provided. For teens ages 11–18. Registration required. Free, 4:30pm. Central Library, 201 E. Market St. jmrl.org etc.
Dürty Karaoke. Dive bar karaoke for your hump days. Free, 8:30pm. Dürty Nelly’s, 2200 Jefferson Park Ave. durtynellyscharlottesville.com
Rapture Karaoke. The longest-running karaoke event in town. Hosted by Jenn DeVille. Free, 9pm. Rapture, 303 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. rapture restaurant.com
Thursday 7/31
music
Ali Webb. An evening of jazz as you’ve never heard it before. Free, 5pm. The Center at Belvedere, 540 Belvedere Blvd. thecentercville.org
Berto & Vincent. Lively flamenco rumba with Latin and Cuban influences. Free, 7pm. The Bebedero, 201 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thebebedero.com
Brian Franke. An independent award-winning singer-songwriter and cover artist. Free, 5pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwoodfarmandwinery.com
Metal Mayhem. Featuring 7th Grade Girl Fight, Cats in Houses, and Heaviside. All ages, rain or shine. Free, 7pm. Ace Biscuit & Barbecue, 600 Concord Ave. acebbq.com
Redd & The Paper Flowers. An Appalachian-based band from Knoxville, Tennessee that pulls inspiration from jazz and bluegrass to create a unique folkfusion sound. $10, 7:30pm. The Batesville Market, 6624 Plank Rd., Batesville. batesvillemarket.com
Trip & Jamie of Mother Greenstone. Roots in soul, blues, jam bands, and classic rock. Free, 5:30pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potterscraftcider.com
Emmylou Harris
Legendary singer-songwriter Emmylou Harris brings her talents to the Ting Pavilion in support of a benefit show for Charlottesville’s Free Clinic. Not many other top-of-list names excelling in her chosen genres can outshine Harris—neither for the soft power of her inimitable voice or her laundry list of records and recognition as a Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, Billboard Century Award recipient, and Grammy Award winner ad nauseam.
No less impressive in her career are the innumerable successful collaborations she’s had, ranging from work icons like Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Johnny Cash, and Roy Orbison to Linda Ronstadt and Dolly Parton—the latter two with whom she released the hugely successful Trio (1987) and its sequel in 1999. Yet despite her accomplishments as a country-rock crossover solo artist in the 1970s, Harris decided to shift. By the early 1990s, having disbanded her backing group, a decision to infuse her music with alternative rock production choices resulted in 1995’s Wrecking Ball, a Grammy winner for Best Contemporary Folk Album and an important col-
stage
lection in the development of what has come to be known as Americana music.
In the 21st century, she’s continued to forge interesting collaborations with the likes of Dire Straits’ Mark Knopfler, Bruce Springsteen, Beck, and Ryan Adams; her voice even graced multiple tracks on the soundtrack for the Nick Cave written gangster movie Lawless (2012). As she hasn’t put out a new record of her own in some years, it’s probably a safe guess that Harris’ set will lean into covers, which she may pull from any of the aforementioned stars she’s worked with, or others including Steve Earle, Lucinda Williams, or Guy Clark.
Emmylou Harris. A 14-time Grammy winner and Billboard Century Award recipient, Harris’ contributions as a singer and songwriter span 40 years. This show benefits the Charlottesville Free Clinic. $57–120, 7:30pm. Ting Pavilion, 700 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. tingpavilion.com
Jerry Garcia Birthday Bash. Featuring Sisters & Brothers, with Andy Tichenor’s Almost Acoustic. $19.25, 8pm. The Southern Café & Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com
Jesse’s House. Local legends bring the tunes. Free, 7pm. Dürty Nelly’s, 2200 Jefferson Park Ave. durtynellyscharlottesville.com
Metal Mayhem. Another night of metal music featuring In Just, Inevitable, Bleed Out, and Silico. $10, 7pm. Ace Biscuit & Barbecue, 600 Concord Ave. acebbq.com
Small Town Rodeo. Twangy tunes wrangling a perfect mix of bluegrass, outlaw country, classic rock, Americana, and newer roots music to please cowboys and city slickers alike. Free, 5:30pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potterscraftcider.com
The Boomerangs. A rock ‘n’ roll band spanning genres and generations with music from the 1950s to present day. Free, 5:30pm. Hardware Hills Vineyard, 5199 W. River Rd., Scottsville. hardwarehills.com stage
Sense & Sensibility. See listing for Wednesday, July 30. $33–68, 7:30pm. Blackfriars Playhouse, 10 S. Market St., Staunton. americanshakespearecenter.com words
Friday Night Writes. An open mic for emerging musicians and writers performing their music, poetry, and short stories. Free, 7pm. New Dominion Bookshop, 404 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. newdominionbookshop.com etc.
Ting Pavilion
Friday 8/1
Opening act, multi-instrumentalist Tennessean Valerie June has a curious Appalachian and psych take on things. Her most recent work, this year’s Owls, Omens, and Oracles, carries with it a nasal gleefulness and an inventive wall of sound devoid of contemporary signposts. Tracks like “Joy, Joy!” and “Endless Tree” provide the type of feel-good engine a show like this needs to get everyone on the same page: inspired enough to be grateful, and ready to give until it stops hurting for everyone in town.—CM Gorey
Albemarle County Fair. See listing for Thursday, July 31. $5, 10am–9pm. James Monroe’s Highland, 2050 James Monroe Pkwy. albemarlecountyfair.com
Big Blue Door. A slice of Charlottesville’s funniest, sharpest comedy, featuring the summer studio teams Hot Froth and Backup Husband. Portions of this show will be filmed. $10, 7pm. Belmont Arts Collaborative, 221 Carlton Rd. Ste. 3. bigbluedoor.org Brewery Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Thursday, July 31. $15, noon. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. puzzledbee.com
Trivia with Olivia. Get the weekend started with beers and trivia. Free, 6pm. SuperFly Brewing Co., 943 Preston Ave. superflybrewing.com
The Winter’s Tale. Discover Shakespeare’s tale of jealousy and redemption. $33–68, 7:30pm. American Shakespeare Center, 10 S. Market St., Staunton. americanshakespearecenter.com
classes
Paint & Sip. The Charlottesville chapter of Virginia Organizing presents local artist Kris Woodroof leading a disability-themed painting prompt. $35, 6:30pm. Kardinal Hall, 722 Preston Ave. kardinalhall.com
etc.
Albemarle County Fair. An old-time country fair of agricultural celebration, complete with exhibits, baked goods, crafts, family entertainment, events, livestock, and demonstrations of historic and cultural significance. $5, 4–9pm. James Monroe’s Highland, 2050 James Monroe Pkwy. albemarlecountyfair.com
Brewery Puzzle Hunt. An escape room meets a pub crawl. Visit the Preston Avenue breweries, crack codes, unravel riddles, and sample Charlottesville’s best brews. Players get $1-off pints at each brewery. $15, noon. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. puzzledbee.com
Trivia at Ace. Trivia presented by Epic Cville. This week’s theme: “The Office.” Free, 6:30pm. Ace Biscuit & Barbecue, 600 Concord Ave. acebbq.com
Friday 8/1
music
Chickenhead Blues Band. Charlottesville’s premier boogie-woogie, beat, rhythm and blues dance band. Free, 9pm. Holly’s Diner, 1221 E. Market St. Dave Goodrich. This singer-songwriter guitarist brings a repertoire of blues, rock, pop, Motown, and original music. Free, 5pm. DuCard Vineyards, 40 Gibson Hollow Ln., Etlan. ducardvineyards.com
Saturday 8/2 music
Bailey Hayes. A local singer-songwriter with a set list containing an eclectic range of music from country to classic rock, pop/soul, folk, original music, and more. Free, 2pm. DuCard Vineyards, 40 Gibson Hollow Lane, Etlan. ducardvineyards.com
Bomar & Ritter. Combining a list of strong originals and cover tunes, this duo is known for their special blend of vocal harmony, intricate guitar arrangements, and easygoing stage manner. Free, 2:30pm. Albemarle CiderWorks, 2545 Rural Ridge Ln., North Garden. albemarleciderworks.com
Butterfly Vendetta. A powerhouse blend of rock, pop, and punk. Free, 10pm. Rapture, 303 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. rapturerestaurant.com
Field Day with Erik ‘Red’ Knierim. Another Field Day event featuring eponymous frontman of Red & The Romantics. Free, 11am. Blenheim Vineyards, 31 Blenheim Farm. blenheimvineyards.com
CULTURE TO-DO LIST
Saturday 8/2
Goth Takeover. A night filled with alternative spookies and a variety of gothy DJs and bands. All ages welcome. Guests under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult after midnight. Free, 9pm.
Holly’s Diner, 1221 E. Market St. LockJaw. A four-piece classic blues-rock band covering primarily ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s rock, plus some country and R&B for variety. Free, 6pm. Southwest Mountain Vineyard, 2300 Whipper In Ln., Keswick. smvwines.com
Matt Johnson. Local favorite featured on NBC’s “The Voice.” Free, noon. Keswick Vineyards, 1575 Keswick Winery Dr., Keswick. keswickvineyards.com
No BS! Brass. A premier band to see for heartpounding energy and uncontrollable dancing brought on by modern funk sounds. $19, 8pm. The Southern Café & Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com
Press Play Music Series: The Crozet All Stars. A local group of talented musicians coming from backgrounds rooted in blues, rock, soul, and jam bands performing a variety of covers. Free, 5:30pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potterscraftcider.com
Saturday After Five: Alligator. An all-star Charlottesville band playing early vintage Grateful Dead. With Mojo Pie. Free, 5:30pm. Ting Pavilion, 700 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. tingpavilion.com
Stiff Peaks. Dad rock, but like, really good. Meringue lovers take note. Free, 7pm. Dürty Nelly’s, 2200 Jefferson Park Ave. durtynellyscharlottesville.com
The Pollocks. This family band plays an indoor pub-style show. $15, 7pm. Batesville Market, 6624 Plank Rd., Batesville. batesvillemarket.com
dance
Brunch Club Rooftop Dance Party. A daytime party with the soul-expanding sounds of DJs XII GALAXIES, Copa Vida, Silk Scarves, and Mazelov. $10–20, 11am. Common House, 206 W. Market St. commonhouse.com
stage
DMR Adventures Presents: The Little Mermaid, JR! Journey under the sea as over 70 students bring this Disney classic to the stage— a delightfully charming adaptation of the awardwinning film. $15–27, 2pm and 7pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net
Sense & Sensibility See listing for Wednesday, July 30. $33–68, 7:30pm. Blackfriars Playhouse, 10 S. Market St., Staunton. americanshakespearecenter.com
The Winter’s Tale See listing for Thursday, July 31. $51–93, 2pm. American Shakespeare Center, 10 S. Market St., Staunton. americanshakespeare center.com
etc.
Albemarle County Fair. See listing for Thursday, July 31. $5, 10am–9pm. James Monroe’s Highland, 2050 James Monroe Pkwy. albemarlecountyfair.com
Brewery Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Thursday, July 31. $15, noon. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. puzzledbee.com
Charlottesville City Market. Discover produce and products from 80+ local vendors. Visit the Market Management tent to match your SNAP dollars up to $50 each visit. Free, 8am. Charlottesville City Market, 100 Water St. E. charlottesville.gov
SATURDAY 8/2
BRASS TRACKS
Richmond’s No BS! Brass has established itself at the forefront of live acts hailing from the commonwealth’s capital. Combining elements of James Brown, John Coltrane, Michael Jackson, and Led Zeppelin with the spirit of New Orleans into an original modern-funk sound, the energetic 12-piece outfit keeps audiences moving all night long. Bolstering its bona fides, nearly every member of the band has had conservatory training, with several holding degrees in music. Local wordsmith Waasi opens. $19.25, 8pm. The Southern Café & Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com
SMALL BITES CULTURE
Slice, dice, and sip
Celebrating 30 years of princess cake, the tomato harvest, and DIY cocktails BY
SARAH GOLIBART GORMAN
This is your excuse to grab hold of that baguette door handle, and whisk yourself into Albemarle Baking Company for a slice of princess cake. A cornerstone of Charlottesville’s food scene, the bakery was founded by husband-and-wife team Gerry Newman and Millie Carson in 1995. When the shop outgrew its first home on the Downtown Mall it became the inaugural tenant of the Main Street Market in 2001. From Swiss-style apprenticeships in California to executive pastry roles at Virginia resorts, Newman’s decades of baking experience is evident in every loaf. Stop by Monday through Saturday, 8am to 5pm, to celebrate 30 years of artistry, craft, and community—one perfect pastry at a time. albemarlebakingco.com
Get sauced
Mark your calendar for Tomato Fest, happening August 26 from 4 to 8pm at The Little
Market at Lampo. This juicy celebration features a tomato-forward menu from Lampo’s Neapolitan pizzeria, local produce from September Sun, Whisper Hill Farm, and more to be announced. Expect plenty of seasonal goodness from Caromont Farm, The Pie Chest, Splendora’s Gelato, and more local vendors. Come for the food, stay for the prized tomato competition (judged by farmers), and admire the tomato-themed art showcase at Bar Baleno. Bonus: Dress on theme and score a free bumper sticker. tomatotomatofest.com
Shaking things up
The newly renovated Omni Charlottesville Hotel is serving up more than just a great stay. Its new Craft & Cuisine experience is an intimate, hands-on evening of cocktails and culinary creativity. Meet the chef and mixologist, then step behind the bar to craft two signature cocktails, each paired with curated bites. The night wraps
with a private, seasonal three-course dinner and Virginia wine pairings. Available daily by appointment (with a little planning—seven days’ notice required), for groups of six to 10. omnihotels.com hotels/charlottesville
Flavor at The Forum
From blind wine tastings to cocktail masterclasses, The Forum Hotel is heating up with hands-on experiences. Savor Executive Chef Ryan Collins’ limited-time three-course Summer Tasting Menu at Birch & Bloom (July 28 to August 9). Uncover the secrets of great wine at Birch & Bloom’s daily blind tasting series, or master your mixology skills at The Aspen Bar every weekend in August. forumhotelcharlottesville.com
Cheese and thank you
Mild, buttery, and perfectly melty—Al Carbon’s Oaxaca cheese is now available by the pound. Its stringy texture makes it ideal for quesadillas, enchiladas, tacos, or even sprinkled over your favorite soup. Grab a pack of housemade corn tortillas, chop up an Al Carbon charcoal rotisserie chicken, and top with fresh onion, cilantro, and Oaxaca cheese for taco night this week. Stop by or order online. alcarbonva.com
Openings and closings
Mint Kitchen, a new addition to Belmont’s Beacon commercial kitchen collaborative, is serving up South Indian comfort food on weekends—think dosas (India’s take on a savory crepe) in flavors like crispy ghee, spiced masala, Mysore masala, or keema with minced goat. Craving something heartier? Go for the biryani—chicken, mutton, or paneer—served with mint raita, pineapple chutney, and a rich, flavorful gravy. Pre-order by 8pm Friday for delivery or pickup on Saturday or Sunday. Text or call 229-6121 to get started. mint-kitchen.com
We will miss The Maple Tree Café, the lunch spot that opened in mid-February in the former Kitchen(ette) space behind the Jefferson. On Sunday, July 19, it announced via social media and a handwritten sign on the door that it’ll be closing for the immediate future. “We have delighted in serving you,” the message says. “And hope to do so again.”
MORE TO CHEW ON
SATURDAY 8/2 &
SUNDAY 8/3
Homemade Peach Ice Cream Days. Each year, the Crozet Lions Club uses Chiles’ ripe peaches to make delicious, creamy, mouthwatering ice cream. Free, 9am–6pm. Chiles Peach Orchard, 1351 Greenwood Rd., Crozet. chilesfamilyorchards.com
FRIDAY 8/8
Forager’s Dinner: Summer Mushrooms + Wine Pairings. Every dish features locally cultivated mushrooms paired with a Mount Ida Reserve wine. Three courses, all vegetarian. Dishes can be made vegan by request. $84–96, 6–8pm. Mount Ida Reserve, 5600 Moonlight Dr., Scottsville. mountidareserve.com
FRIDAY 8/15
Supper Series. TikTok star, crabber, and fisherman Luke McFadden joins Chef Jean-Paul Bourgeois of Duck Camp Dinners to bring the best of Chesapeake seafood and Southern cooking to Veritas. Wine pairings included. $100, 7pm. Veritas Vineyards and Winery, 151 Veritas Ln., Afton. veritaswines.com
SATURDAY 8/16
Farm to Table Harvest Dinner. Experience a locally sourced four-course meal prepared by Madison County’s Brad Jarvis. Guests begin the evening with passed hors d’oeuvres and a complimentary glass of wine. Reservations are required. $120, 6:30–9:30pm. DuCard Vineyards, 40 Gibson Hollow Ln., Etlan. ducardvineyards.com
SUNDAY 8/17
Oysterfest. Eat your fill of raw and grilled oysters. Salty Bottom Blue raises premium oysters on Stingray Point in the Chesapeake Bay, where the rough waters provide excellent water flow, producing a meaty, plump oyster. Free entry, 11am–5pm. The Batesville Market, 6624 Plank Rd., Batesville. batesvillemarket.com
SUNDAY 8/24
Sangria Summer Market. Browse a curated selection of handmade goods, artisan crafts, and unique treasures from some of our favorite local makers as you enjoy housemade sangria—available in both red and white. Free entry, noon–5pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwoodfarmandwinery.com
RECURRING EVENTS
Downtown C’ville Food Tour + Wine Tasting. Discover the heart of Charlottesville on a delicious walking tour along the historic Downtown Mall. $125–150, times and dates vary. Downtown Mall. c-villebites.com
Farm to Batteau. A floating, open-fire feast crafted by Chef Sarah Rennie that’s paired with local storytelling, live music, and the natural beauty of the James River aboard an authentic, flat-bottomed batteau—boats once essential to Virginia’s economy and culture. Reservations required. $212, 6–8pm. Canal Basin Square, 249 Main St., Scottsville. jamesrivertour.com
SARAH CRAMER PHOTO
The princess cake, a centerpiece at local parties for decades, is having a celebration of its own.
GIGANOTOSAURUS
CULTURE TO-DO LIST
SATURDAY 8/2
ROCK YOU HOME
To say that The Pollocks own Batesville Market would be false, but the band does have a comfort level on the venue’s stage that comes with being local and legendary in a small community. Led by Jason Pollock, whose hit songwriting propelled his grunge band Seven Mary Three up the charts in the mid-’90s, The Pollocks are a laid-back rock outfit that includes Thomas Gunn (guitar, vocals), Nathan West (drums), Randy Mendicino (bass), and Maryline Meyer (vocals, percussion). $15, 6pm. Batesville Market, 6624 Plank Rd, Batesville. batesvillemarket.com
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25
Saturday 8/2
Storytime. Featuring readings from recent storybooks and the classics kids know and love. Rain or shine. All ages welcome. Free, 11am. New Dominion Bookshop, 404 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. newdominionbookshop.com
Sunday 8/3
music
John Kelly. Contemporary rock and classic tunes by a local singer-songwriter. Free, 2pm. DuCard Vineyards, 40 Gibson Hollow Ln., Etlan. ducardvineyards.com
Nick McNally. An afternoon of acoustic singersongwriter magic with a unique blend of Americana, folk, and modern country. Free, noon. Keswick Vineyards, 1575 Keswick Winery Dr., Keswick. keswickvineyards.com
Uncle Pen. A sunset soirée Sunday session taking listeners on an intimate and high-energy journey through the classic and lesser known corners of the bluegrass universe. Free, 1pm. Chisholm Vineyards at Adventure Farm, 1135 Clan Chisholm Ln., Earlysville. chisholmvineyards.com etc.
Brewery Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Wednesday, July 31. $15, noon. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. puzzledbee.com
Paramount On Screen: Top Gun. Tom Cruise is superb as Maverick Mitchell, a young pilot who’s out to become the best. Kelly McGillis plays the instructor who teaches Maverick a few things you can’t learn in a classroom. $7–9, 2pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net
Prints, Platters, & Pints + WTJU Vinyl Takeover. A day of art, music, and local vintage vendors, with your favorite WTJU DJs spinning various styles on
vinyl all afternoon. Free, noon. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potterscraftcider.com
Monday 8/4
music
Flamenco Mondays. An evening of flamenco song and dance with Berto and Vincent. Must say “ole!” Free, 7pm. Mejicali, 852 W. Main St. #110. mejicalirestaurant.com
etc.
Drop-In Mondays for Teens. This week’s activity: handmade bracelets. Materials and snacks provided. For ages 11–18. Registration requested but not required. Free, 1–2:30. Central Library, 201 E. Market St. jmrl.org
Tuesday 8/5
music
Jazz Tuesdays. Featuring Doug Bethel, a master trombonist and Charlottesville jazz veteran, leading a lineup of top-tier local musicians for a night of inspired, high-level live jazz. Free, 7:30pm. Rapture, 303 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. rapturerestaurant.com
Vincent Zorn. Lively flamenco rumba with a unique percussive technique that incorporates a diverse range of strumming styles, rhythms, and taps. Free, 7pm. The Bebedero, 201 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thebebedero.com
etc.
Geeks Who Drink Trivia. Good trivia, good times. Teams of two to six people compete to win prizes like gift certificates and pint glasses, plus bragging rights. Free, 7pm. Firefly, 1304 E. Market St. fireflycville.com
The Run Club. Do a 5K run, then drink beer. $1-off pints for runners. Free, 6pm. Decipher Brewing, 1740 Broadway St.
August Exhibitions
Crozet Artisan Depot 5791 Three Notch’d Rd., Crozet. “Captured Moments, Whimsy and Wonder,” contemporary impressionist paintings by Barbara Trovillo. Potter Karis Swink Barry shares functional ceramic wares. Both shows run August 1–31. Meet the artists event August 16, 11am–1pm.
C’ville Arts Cooperative Gallery 118 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. “Treasure Trove,” a collection of jewelry featuring pearls, crystals, and gemstones accompanied by pirates and dragons sculpted using beads, wire, buttons, and charms by Steve Cunningham. August 1–31. First Fridays opening reception with the artist, 5–8pm.
The Gallery at Studio IX 969 Second St. SE.
“TRAD: A Celebration of Irish Musicians,” featuring studio portraits of traditional Celtic folk musicians by photographer Christopher Bickford. Through August 31. Opening reception August 1, 5–7pm. Artist talk August 28, 5–6PM.
Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection of UVA 400 Worrell Dr. “In the Beginning: Paintings by Senior Artists of the Spinifex Arts Project” presents the bold, dynamic work of internationally renowned artists from the Spinifex Arts Project. Through March 8, 2026. “Tjukurpa | Handle It,” sculpture and mixed media works by Robert Fielding. Through January 11, 2026. “Ma atjaMa atja | For the Next Generation: Printmaking at Mimili Maku Arts,” a group show featuring prints by various artists. August 19, 2025–January 13, 2026.
Jefferson School African American Heritage Center 233 Fourth St. NW. “A Constellation of BLACKTIVISTS,” an exhibition exploring themes of gender and global racial histories by Veronica Jackson. Through August 9. Permanent exhibition, “Pride Overcomes Prejudice,” exploring the history of peoples of African descent in Charlottesville. Ongoing.
Les Yeux du Monde 841 Wolf Trap Rd. “Color in Conversation,” an exhibition of works exploring chromatic expressions in multiple media, by Jessie Coles and Jackie Watson. Through August 24. Ticketed luncheon and artist talks August 10, 12:30pm.
McGuffey Art Center 201 Second St. NW. In the Sarah B. Smith Gallery, “Drawn to Light,” a collection of moth portraits done in acrylic on canvas, by Deborah Davis. In the First Floor Galleries, “Soft Remembering,” an interdisciplinary, collaborative exhibition exploring concepts of memory, childhood practices, cherished relationships, and time by Somé Louis and Hanna Taubenberger. In the Second Floor North Gallery, “Drawn Together: The Living Figure,” a group exhibit showcasing a year of work created in a community setting, celebrating the enduring tradition of drawing from life. In the Associates Gallery, a monthly rotation of works by associate members. All shows run through August 17.
The PVCC Gallery V. Earl Dickinson Building, 501 College Dr. The 2025 Student Art Exhibition, featuring ceramics, photography, printmaking, drawing, graphics, and more from a diverse range of PVCC classes in art and design. Through September 6.
Ruffin Gallery UVA Grounds, Ruffin Hall, 179 Culbreth Rd. “Fuego Eterno: Soberanías Visuales,” a group show bringing together the knowledge and aesthetic achievements of individuals whose ancestral lineage predates Spanish colonialism and who center millennia of inherited epistemologies within their contemporary practices. Featuring sculpture, photography, video, painting, performance, textiles, mural, and installation works curated by Erika Hirugami. August 29–October 10.
FRIDAY 8/1 THROUGH FRIDAY 8/29
Chroma Projects presents two solo shows during the month of August. In the Micro Gallery, “Delta” features prints and printing plates by Tim Michel that consider the motif of the delta, using it as a metaphor for life as it gathers matter, stories, and experiences along its route, spreading its beneficence as it ultimately concludes in the ocean. The form of the delta replicates the branching of trees, and the pattern of veining in humans, connecting to all of life’s formations. In Vault Virginia’s Great Halls, “Vastly Empty and Infinitely Full” offers paintings depicting a comprehensive history of our oceans by Carolyn Capps. In the roiling mix of submerged imagery, Capps includes references to the ancient myths about the ocean, as well as the exploits and adventures of early explorers. Evidence of battles raged and ships lost, as well as modern litter, float crowded amid the fauna of the aquatic world. Both exhibitions open with a reception on August 1 from 5–7pm. “Delta” runs through August 29, while “Vastly Empty and Infinitely Full” continues through September 26. Chroma Projects, inside Vault Virginia, Third St. SE. chromaprojects.com
Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital 500 Martha Jefferson Dr. “Virginia Landscapes,” oil, acrylic, and watermedia paintings by Terry M. Coffey, Christine Rich, and Kate Wittig. Through August 4.
The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Charlottesville 717 Rugby Rd. “Inherited views of the World,” a two-person show featuring paintings by Jeff McCormack and his mother Ellen Holt McCormack. Through August 31. Visible Records 1740 Broadway St. “Return of the Triumphal Mother,” featuring video installation, photography, and drawings by Dani and Sheilah ReStack. Through August 23.
Christopher Bickford at The Gallery at Studio IX
Darwin Cruz at Ruffin Gallery
Carolyn Capps, Circulating Systems, 2024, acrylic on canvas, 36 x 36 inches.
Build Your Business
with Charlottesville & Albemarle County’s
“Being part of the Chamber connects me with other valuesdriven leaders who care about growth, community, and impact. It’s a space where meaningful conversations turn into real partnerships. That kind of shared momentum is rare, and I’m honored to help strengthen it.”
Andrea Johnson, The Intentional Optimist LLC
Incoming Chair, Chamber Business Women’s Round Table (BWRT)
FOR FUN PUZZLES
SUDOKU
#1
#1
#2 #5
#4
ACROSS
1. Nickelodeon character with a heartbreaking viral video in which he finds out his show has been canceled
9. Side, back, cottage, and jowl, e.g. 15. Match 16. Music genre that fits in with
in before bed?
22. Battle of Hastings region
24. Brown, e.g.
25. Pit
26. Ltd., across the Chunnel
27. Order
29. Guinea pig lookalikes
30. ___ Octavius (“Spider-Man” villain)
32. Navel scraping?
34. Bridge component
36. Title seventeen-year-old on Broadway
39. Low-quality images?
43. Tricked
44. Macron’s head
45. Night sch. course, maybe
46. It comes before a fall
47. Prefix meaning 10 to the 18th power
48. Match single socks again
51. Singer-songwriter, e.g.
54. Aleppo’s country
55. Invader of the Roman Empire
56. Abstainer ’s mantra
58. Group of infected computers
59. Like many half-courses
60. Most distant point
61. Like some livestock
DOWN
1. “Wrecking Crew” guitarist Tommy (whose surname means “German” in Italian)
2. Capital of the territory featured in Netflix’s “North of North” (2025)
3. { }, mathematically
4. Certain locks
5. “So Wrong” singer Patsy
6. Rush, quaintly
7. Caldecott Medal winner ___ Jack Keats
8. First-come, first-served arrangement, maybe
9. Like suspicious eyes
10. Prefix with valent
11. Diversion where the walls may have ears?
12. Easy area to pass to, in hockey
13. Devotional periods
14. Lean to the extreme
21. 50-50 shot
23. Nelson Mandela’s native tongue
28. 1990s tennis star ___ S·nchez Vicario
29. Montblanc product
#5
This beautiful city has kept us up and running through advertising support since 1989, but now we also need you, readers of the free word, to help us keep telling local stories. If free, independent news is important to you, please consider a gift of $35 to keep the lights on—in our office, sure, but also the light we will continue to shine into every corner of Charlottesville. Depending on the size of your gift, you could receive a digital copy of C-VILLE every Tuesday evening (before it hits stands Wednesday), a tote bag, and two invites to the Best of C-VILLE party in August 2025. Support the work of C-VILLE Weekly.
SUPPORT OUR WORK
By Rob Brezsny
Virgo
(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): The love-fakers and promise-breakers and delusion-makers are no fun, but I think you will ultimately be grateful they helped you clarify your goals. The reverse-healers and idea-stealers and greedy-feelers are perilous to your peace of mind in the short run, but eventually they will motivate you to create more rigorous protections for your heart, health, and stability. In conclusion, Virgo, it’s one of those odd times when people with less than pure intentions and high integrity can be valuable teachers.
Libra
(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): The Svalbard Global Seed Vault is built into a Norwegian mountain near the Arctic. It’s humanity’s backup garden. It stores over a million seed varieties from all over the world, serving as a safeguard for biodiversity. In accordance with astrological omens, Libra, I invite you to imagine yourself as resembling a seed vault. What valuable capacities are you saving up for the future? Are there treasures you contain that will ensure your long-term stability and security? Which of your potentials need to get extra nurturing? Bonus: Now is a good time to consider whether you should activate any of these promises.
Scorpio
(Oct. 23-Nov.21): There’s a myth in Gnostic traditions that Sophia, the Goddess of Divine Wisdom, split herself apart and dispersed into the material world. She became embedded in every stone, plant, and drop of blood. And she’s still here, murmuring truth from within every part of the material world. In Sophia’s spirit, Scorpio, here is your message: Wisdom isn’t elsewhere. It’s embedded in your body; in your grief; in the wood grain of your table and the ache behind your eyes. More than ever, you have a mandate to celebrate this gift. So for now, refrain from thinking that spirituality is about transcendence and ascendance. Instead, greet the sacred in the dust and mud. Listen for Sophia in the ordinary. She speaks in sighs and sparks, not sermons.
Sagittarius
(Nov. 22-Dec.21): When I do tours to promote the books I write, the range of encounters can be wide. On one trip, over 300 people came to see me at a bookstore in New York City. They listened raptly, posed interesting questions, and bought 71 books. In Atlanta three days later, I was greeted by nine semi-interested people at a small store in a strip mall. They purchased three books. But I gave equal amounts of energy at both gigs. The crowd in Atlanta got my best, as did the audience in New York. I invite you to regard me as
FREE WILL ASTROLOGY FOR FUN
(July 23-Aug. 22): In ancient China and ancient Greece, the lion was not the king of beasts, but the guardian of gates. The threshold keeper. The one who asked, “Are you ready?” Now is a good time to bring this aspect of Leonine symbolism to your attention. You may soon feel a surge of leadership radiance, but not necessarily the stage-commanding kind. It will be more like priest and priestess energy. Gatekeeper presence. People and situations in your orbit are on the verge of transformation, and you can be a midwife to their transitions—not by fixing or moralizing, but by witnessing. So I invite you to hold space. Ask potent questions. Be the steady presence ready to serve as a catalyst.
a role model, Sagittarius. Proceed as if every experience deserves your brightest offerings. Express yourself with panache no matter what the surroundings are.
Capricorn
(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): In ancient Egyptian cosmology, ka is the vital essence and the double of a person that lives on after death. But it also walks beside you while you live. It drinks, eats, and dreams. It is both you and more than you. Dear Capricorn, I invite you to tune in to your ka in the coming days, and any other spiritual presences that serve you and nourish you. Be alert for visitations from past selves, forgotten longings, and future visions that feel eerily familiar.
Aquarius
(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): “Dear Rob Brezsny: I wonder what you are like in person. Sometimes I get a Gen X vibe, like you wear vintage T-shirts from obscure bands, are skeptical but not cynical, and remember life before the internet, but are tech savvy. Other times, you seem like a weird time-traveler visiting us from 2088. It’s confusing! Are you trying to be a mystery? When’s your next public appearance? I want to meet you. —Aquarian Explorer.” Dear Aquarian: I’m glad I’m a riddle to you. As long as I avoid being enmeshed in people’s expectations and projections, I maintain my freedom to be my authentic self, even as I continually reinvent my authentic self. By the way, I recommend you adopt my attitude in the coming weeks.
Pisces
(Feb. 19-March 20): In Norse mythology, the god Odin plucked out one of his eyes and
hung himself upside down from the World Tree for nine days. Why would he do such a thing? The ancient stories tell us this act of self-sacrifice earned him the right to learn the secret of the runes, which held the key to magic, fate, and wisdom. You don’t need to make a sacrifice anywhere near that dramatic, Pisces. But I do suspect you are primed for a comparable process. What discomfort are you willing to endure for the sake of revelation? What illusions must you give up to see more clearly? I dare you to engage in an inner realignment that brings metamorphosis, but not martyrdom.
Aries
(March 21-April 19): For many bamboo species, nothing visible happens for years after the seeds are sowed. Beneath the surface, though, the plants are developing an extensive underground root system. This is referred to as the sleep-or-creep phase. Once the preparatory work is finished, the above-ground growth explodes, adding as much as three feet of stalk per day. Dear Aries, I sense you have been following a similar pattern. Soon you will launch a phase of vigorous evolution and expansion. It might feel unsettling at first, but I predict you will come to adore it.
Taurus
Gemini
(May 21-June 20): In medieval music, organum refers to passages that feature two voices. One is sung in long, sustained notes, and the other performs intricate, faster-moving melodic lines above it. This is an apt metaphor for the roles I invite you to take on in the coming weeks, Gemini: both the drone and the melody. One way to do it is to hold steady in one realm as you improvise in another. Another is to offer your allies doses of stability and inspirational dreams. Welcome the duality! You are capable of both deep-rooted rhythm and visionary risk; both fortifying truth and playful fun.
Cancer
(June 21-July 22): Cancerian author Ernest Hemingway had a reputation for bravado, but he was adept at wielding the protective, selfnourishing skills your sign is renowned for. He was sensitive about his works-in-progress, refusing to discuss unfinished stories. He understood that raw creative energy needed to be sheltered from kibitzing until it could stand on its own. “The first draft of anything is shit,” he said, but he also knew that defending the right to write that mediocre first draft was essential for him to thrive. Hemingway’s ability to channel his emotional vulnerability into moving prose came from establishing firm boundaries around his generative process. I recommend you do all that good stuff in the coming weeks, dear Cancerian.
Expanded weekly audio horoscopes and daily text message horoscopes: RealAstrology.com, (877) 873-4888
(April 20-May 20): You are very close to uncovering interesting information about yourself—some new, some forgotten. But you will have to be brave and strategic to actually find it. If you manage to pull off this demanding-but-not-impossible trick, a series of breakthroughs may stream your way. Like what? Here are the possibilities. 1. A distorted self-image will fade. 2. An adversary’s hex will dissolve. 3. An inhibition will subside, freeing you to unite with a fun asset. 4. You will knock down a barrier that has been so insidious you didn’t know how strong it was.
LEO
CLASSIFIEDS
NOTE: Objections to the issuance of this license must be Submitted to ABC no later than 30 days from the publishing date of the first of two required newspaper legal notices. Objections should be registered at www.abc.virginia.gov or 800-552-3200.
VIRGINIA’S LARGEST SPORTSMAN SHOW!
STATEWIDE CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK
AUCTIONS
ATTN. AUCTIONEERS: Promote your upcoming auctions statewide! Affordable Print and Digital Solutions reaching your target audience. Call this paper or Landon Clark at Virginia Press Services 804-5217576, HYPERLINK “mailto:landonc@vpa.net” landonc@vpa.net
HOME IMPROVEMENT
Vinyl Replacement Windows Installed! Starting at $350 Call 804-7398207 for More Details! Ronnie Jenkins II Windows, Siding, Roofing and Gutters! FREE Estimates! Call 804-739-8207 for More Details! American Made Products!
SunSetter. America’s Number One Awning! Instant shade at the touch of a button. Transform your deck or patio into an outdoor oasis. Up to 10-year limited warranty. Call now and SAVE $350 today! 1-844-7462332
No more cleaning out gutters. Guaranteed! LeafFilter is the most advanced gutter protection for your home, backed by a no-clog guarantee and lifetime transferrable warranty. Call today 1-877-6146667 to schedule a FREE inspection and no obligation estimate. Plus get 20% off! Seniors and military save an additional 10%. Restrictions apply, see representative for warranty and offer details
Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 7-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-844-947-1479 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.
Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-877-591-9950
Replace your roof with the best looking and longest lasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer – up to 50% off installation + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-844-902-4611
The bathroom of your dreams in as little as 1 day. Limited Time Offer - $1000 off or No Payments and No Interest for 18 months for customers who qualify. BCI Bath & Shower. Many options available. Quality materials & professional installation. Senior & Military Discounts Available. Call Today! 1-844-945-1631
SERVICES
DIVORCE-Uncontested, $475+$86 court cost. WILLS-$295.00. No court appearance. Estimated completion time twenty-one days. Hilton Oliver, Attorney (Facebook). 757-490-0126. Se Habla Espanol. BBB Member. HYPERLINK “https://hiltonoliverattorneyva.com” https:// hiltonoliverattorneyva.com.
Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 888-608-4974
We Buy Houses for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-844-216-5028
Switch and save up to $250/year on your talk, text and data. No contract and no hidden fees. Unlimited talk and text with flexible data plans. Premium nationwide coverage. 100% U.S. based customer service. For more information, call 1-855-262-5564
P.S. THE BIG PICTURE
Rhythm on the river
Charlottesville-based soul collective Free Union lit up The Front Porch’s Rivanna Roots concert series at Rivanna River Company on July 26 with a dynamic, genre-blurring set that showcased its signature blend of rhythm and blues, rock, and pop. Led by Michael Coleman and Rob Dunnenberger, the group—which also features Carrie Coleman, Parker Hawkins, and Tyler Hutcherson—has built a reputation for rich, collaborative tracks and an electric live presence. Richmond-based songwriter Deau Eyes opened the evening with a vibrant set of her own, setting the tone for a night of musical connection—despite an early wrap due to incoming storms.
