C-VILLE Weekly | May 13 - 19, 2026

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Virginia Supreme Court reverses course on redistricting P.9

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CHARLOTTESVILLE’S FREE NEWS AND ARTS WEEKLY

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MAY 13 – 19, 2026

UN D & D R OU N

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May 13 – 19, 2026

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Hello, Charlottesville.

5.13.26

Thank you for reading C-VILLE Weekly.

Last month I took a week off and traveled to England to—finally, three years after she passed—scatter my mom’s ashes. She’d always wanted to go to Cornwall and never made it, so we brought her cremains to Port Isaac’s famous inlet and sprinkled them in the Celtic Sea. To get there, my husband took the wheel and drove us from London to the Cotswolds and eventually down into Cornwall—on the “wrong” side of the road, through impossibly narrow country lanes bounded by ancient stone walls, and around what felt like an infinite number of roundabouts. At first, every one of them felt mildly terrifying. Then, after a while, they just…worked. Traffic flowed. People adjusted. Nobody seemed especially precious about it.

Reading this week’s cover story (p.18) about Charlottesville traffic, I kept thinking about those roundabouts—and about how often our frustrations with infrastructure are really frustrations with change itself. By the time road projects are funded and completed, new bottlenecks already exist.

My mom always thought she’d make it to Cornwall someday. Life, as it does, kept moving the trip further down the road. Maybe that’s part of what this week’s story is really about, too. Not just traffic, but the consequences of always assuming there will be more time to prepare, more time to adapt, more time to build the future we know is coming.

This week’s contributors

Carol Diggs “retired” to Charlottesville in 2016 after a career in public relations while freelancing off and on.

Now also working part-time as a tour guide at Mont­pelier, Carol writes about whatever and whomever sounds interesting, from Swannanoa and bobcats to death doulas and Colby’s Crew. Read her work on page 18.

Sarah Golibart Gorman is a writer and educator. Her food journey began in a peach orchard, sparking a respect for growers and a love of flavor. Gorman contributes to Garden & Gun, The Harrisonburg Citizen, JMU’s Madison Magazine, and Edible Blue Ridge. She also develops recipes and stars in cooking videos for Shenandoah Valley Orchards. Read her work on page 27.

Hey, thanks! These generous benefactors of C-VILLE have supported our work through our (now tax-deductible!) Save the Free Word campaign. To contribute, follow the QR code.

Towns Ackerman Susan Albert Mary Allen Pat Allinson Catherine Anninos Elaine Attridge Jim & Gwen Baber Lori Balaban Timothy Bambury Catherine Barnes Julie Basic Susan Battani John & Nancy Baum Josh Baumann Jennifer Beachley Mayanna Bean Terry Belanger Susan Bender Denise Benson Anne Bergamesca Rebecca Berlin Kim Biasiolli Patrick Bird Diane Bisgaier Mary Ann Bournos Paddy Bowman Olivia Branch Paul Brewer Susan Brickman Claudia Murray Brindle Colette Brown David Brown Jack Brown Sumner Brown Kate Buford

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IN THIS ISSUE

V.38, No. 19

FEATURE 18

Saturday may 16

Bumper to bumper How come our roads aren’t keeping up with traffic?

NEWS 9 9

FONVILLE x FRIBUSH FT. CHARLIE HUNTER W/ CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE

Virginia Supreme Court tosses voter-approved redistricting.

11 Rivanna Trail encampment fire, plus Alabama AG investigates SPLC. 13 Real Estate: Council green lights The Mark; supes approve Premier Circle tax rebate.

CULTURE 23 25 Critical Condition: The heat is on at Rivanna Roots with Fonville x Fribush.

26 Extra: Daughter-father’s Little Dancer debuts at CHS. 27 Small Bites: The Enemy opens, Peter Chang returns, and more.

FOR FUN 32 32 Sudoku 33 Crossword 35 Free Will Astrology

CLASSIFIEDS 36 P.S. 38 Bruce Holsinger in The HotSeat

Doors 5:30 PM - Music 6:30 PM EDI TOR I A L

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May 13 – 19, 2026

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NEWS UVA | POLITICS | REAL ESTATE | CRIME

Out of bounds Despite Virginia Supreme Court scrapping new map, Dems still favored to take the House BY CATIE RATLIFF SHABAN ATHUMAN /POOL/VPM NEWS

C-VILLE.COM

May 13 – 19, 2026

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NEWS POLITICS I

n a 4-3 ruling, the Supreme Court of Virginia sided with the Tazewell County Circuit Court on May 8, tossing out voter-approved maps ahead of the 2026 midterm election. With the decision, Charlottesville will remain in the 5th Congressional District.

Both the majority opinion and dissent grapple with the definition of “election” as it pertains to early voting and the state’s constitutional requirements for amendments.

In the majority opinion, Justice D. Arthur Kelsey argues that the state’s constitutional amendment process is intentionally designed to guard against “hasty changes to the Commonwealth’s organic law.”

The requirement that the General Assembly must vote twice, separated by an election, before sending an amendment to the voters gives Virginians multiple opportunities to weigh in on amendments. Since the first General Assembly vote on the amendment took place after the start of early voting for the 2025 House of Delegates election, the majority asserts that voters who cast their ballots early did not have equal opportunity to consider the redistricting amendment when selecting the candidate of their choice.

“Voters can support or defeat candidates for the House of Delegates who either endorse or oppose the proposed amendment. If the General Assembly votes against it at the next legislative session, the process ends there. If the General Assembly votes in favor of the proposal, voters get a second direct opportunity to vote the proposed amendment up or down at the ballot box,” writes Kelsey.

Given his interpretation that the Commonwealth “violated the intervening-election requirement,” Kelsey concludes that the special election results are “null and void.

For this reason, the congressional district maps issued by this Court in 2021 … remain the governing maps for the upcoming 2026 congressional elections.”

Justices Stephen R. McCullough, Teresa M. Chafin, and Wesley G. Russell Jr. joined Kelsey in the majority opinion.

Chief Justice Cleo E. Powell wrote the dissent, and was joined by Justices Thomas P. Mann and Junius P. Fulton, III. Powell argues that the majority’s consideration of the definition of “election” fails to weigh the language of the state constitution and state law itself. Under Virginia code, Powell writes, “the General Assembly has specifically defined a ‘[g]eneral election’ as ‘an election held in the Commonwealth on the Tuesday after the first Monday in November.’”

Furthermore, she asserts that the potential violation of posting requirements by the General Assembly does not rise to the level of overturning “an amendment that otherwise meets the requirements.”

While most politicos see the Virginia Supreme Court ruling as a death sentence for the 10-1 redistricting map this election cycle, state Democrats filed a longshot appeal to the Supreme Court of the United States on May 11.

“For our purposes, in terms of rating these races, … the Virginia State Supreme Court was always going to be the final word,” says J. Miles Coleman, associate editor of Sabato’s Crystal Ball at the University of Virginia Center for Politics. “As we saw in the ruling with the Voting Rights Act, the U.S. Supreme Court is not really a court that is sympathetic to Democrats. … Generally speaking, when it comes to these issues of gerrymandering, this U.S. Supreme Court has given a lot of deference to the state supreme courts.”

Despite the setback in Virginia, and the growing number of states redistricting in favor of Republicans, Coleman still forecasts Democrats gaining a majority in the House of Representatives.

In addition to the six congressional seats currently held by Democrats in Virginia, the party has an opportunity to pick up currently red districts, even with the 2021 map in place. VA-2 in the Virginia Beach area is looking like a toss up this cycle, and Republican incumbent Rob Wittman will face a tough challenge from Henrico County Commonwealth’s Attorney (and 2025 lieutenant governor candidate) Shannon Taylor in VA-1.

Virginia will use the congressional district map adopted in 2021 (above) for the 2026 midterms.

Charlottesville’s district, VA-5, is much more difficult for Democrats, according to Coleman. Despite winning the race by 15 points statewide, Gov. Abigail Spanberger lost VA-5 by roughly 7.6 points, according to the Virginia Public Access Project.

“District 5 is just a tough seat for Democrats,” says Coleman. “I think if Perriello could match what Spanberger got here, or ... even keep it within 10 points, that would be a decent showing for a Democrat here.”

“You can see why Democrats are really frustrated, because in some of these states, like Tennessee [and] Florida, the Republicans get to ram through these favorable maps within a matter of days,” Coleman says. “In a state like Virginia, which the Democrats were really counting on, the state supreme court holds them to a very high standard.

They have to do everything exactly right.

They have to jump through all the hoops and still get struck down. So that’s been one of the interesting dynamics between the red states and blue states.”

One element working in Perriello’s and Democrats’ favor this year is the steady decline in President Donald Trump’s ap-

proval rating—one of the best predictors of midterm results.

“The president’s approval rating seems to be going lower and lower. I think Democrats are probably still favored to take the House, maybe not as much as they would be if the Virginia 10-1 map had been okay,” Coleman says. “In terms of the Senate, I would probably favor the Republicans there, but … it’s not looking like as heavy of a lift for Democrats as it was maybe this time last year. … If the Democrats flip the Senate, that, to me, is the bar about whether 2026 is a true blue wave year.”

Even as he’s focused on projections for the midterms, Coleman expects that Virginia’s redistricting conversation is here to stay.

“After the ’26 elections, there is going to be massive pressure on Democrats everywhere, in states like Virginia or Colorado … to redraw where they can. So I would not be surprised at all if maybe a year from now, we’re in another position where Democrats are trying to do another referendum,” he says. C To read the full text of the majority opinion and the dissent, visit vacourts.gov.

IN BRIEF

All the news you missed last week (in one sentence or less) Redistricting revenge? On May 6, the FBI, federal officers with military-style uniforms and armored vehicles, and a conveniently present Fox News crew raid the Portsmouth offices of 82-year-old Democratic State Sen. Louise Lucas, driving force behind the recent redistricting referendum and an elite-tier social media warrior. Weapons grade In the middle of finals, a May 7 cyberattack knocks learning management tool Canvas offline at UVA and universities nationwide. Y’all come Virginia Tourism Corporation’s latest grants to promote area events and attractions go to Foxfield, Monticello Wine Trail, IX Arts, Charlottesville Ale Trail, and more. Baller move Sens.

Kaine and Warner detail how the $1 billion Republicans have budgeted to build President Trump’s White House ballroom could instead benefit Virginians, including Medicaid coverage for 25 percent of the Virginians who lost it amid GOP budget cuts, or more affordable health care plans for two-thirds of the Virginians who lost those because of, well, guess. Nice digs A Wall Street Journal/Realtor.com survey ranks Charlottesville’s luxury housing market the country’s third best. Coppers’ coffers Albemarle County Police Department boosts pay by 11 percent in hopes of increasing recruitment. Poor taste Area chef pleads down from a felony to a misdemeanor May 5 after an exceptionally bad day led him to spill a protein shake on two police officers and attempt to bite one of them.

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May 13 – 19, 2026

C-VILLE.COM

VIRGINIA PUBLIC MEDIA

Rational rationale?

Legal woes continue to mount for the Southern Poverty Law Center. Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall announced a civil investigation into the nonprofit on May 11, four days after it pleaded not guilty on all counts filed by the Department of Justice.

The DOJ alleges that SPLC engaged in wire fraud, false statements, and conspiracy to commit money laundering through its financing of informants involved with extremist groups—including an individual involved in a leadership group chat that planned the August 12, 2017, Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville.

Marshall cites the DOJ indictment as a contributing factor in his decision to subpoena SPLC, but notes his office has been at odds with the organization for years on issues ranging from gender-affirming care for minors to protecting Republican congressional districts.

“We have always suspected that they were monetizing hate and trading on race-baiting, it was just a matter of proving it,” says Marshall.

“Thanks to the U.S. Justice Department’s action to deal with the SPLC, the state’s efforts have now received a shot in the arm. We look forward to learning more about the inner workings of an organization that we have long believed was rotten, but until recently, has been impervious.”

While SPLC had not responded to the Alabama attorney general’s office at press time, the nonprofit released a statement coinciding with its not guilty pleas in the federal case.

“The SPLC is no stranger to legal threats by those on the wrong side of history. In our 55 years, we have faced and prevailed in numerous fights,” said SPLC interim president and CEO Bryan Fair. “The SPLC will continue to fight white supremacy and various forms of injustice in our mission to build a democracy where we can all live and thrive. We will continue that mission no matter what.”—Catie Ratliff This is a developing story. Additional reporting on the SPLC indictment can be found at c-ville.com.

STAFF PHOTO

Burned out

HOUSING NEWS

A fire at the Rivanna Trail encampment costs one man his shelter

BY NATHAN ALDERMAN

I

n the afternoon sun along the Rivanna River Trail, Joshua Ballou paced the edges of the burnt-black patch of public land that used to be his home.

The Charlottesville Fire Department responded to the blaze that destroyed Ballou’s shelter late on May 9, at the encampment adjacent to the trail. The fire burned just northeast of the overpass, where the 250 Bypass crosses the Rivanna River heading into Pantops.

Records from CFD indicate that 911 received reports of the fire at 10:44pm, with units arriving by 10:51pm; the incident was listed as cleared at 12:38am.

By early afternoon of May 10, all that remained of Ballou’s former shelter was a charred pile—an oversized clock warped a la Salvador Dali by the heat, the metal frame and springs of a couch, the skeleton of a large patio umbrella. The fire seemingly didn’t touch any nearby brush or structures. A neighbor’s tent with a neatly cleared path to its entrance remained intact, as did others tucked up to the embankment behind the site of the fire.

Ballou’s hands were still black with soot, and he occasionally paused to cough, sometimes apologizing for doing so, as he spoke.

He says he doesn’t know how the fire started. By his account, he was in sight of his makeshift home when he first saw the flames, visiting with friends at their tent just down the trail. Ballou says there had been no active heat sources inside the tent when he left it.

He says he ran into the burning structure, supported by metal poles and covered in tarps, to grab his most important items, in-

Joshua Ballou stands next to the burnt remains of his shelter on the Rivanna River Trail May 10.

cluding a laptop bag with several of his notebooks. He managed to fill a few stray shopping carts with clothes and other items that he pushed into the trail to keep out of the blaze. He showed a mark on one forearm where he says he’d burned it on a support pole inside the structure.

Ballou, who says he’s also known as “Joker,” didn’t see anyone else near his tent around the time of the fire. But he thinks it’s possible someone might have started the blaze deliberately. A set of concrete stairs lead down the embankment to the trail from River Road, directly behind the site of his shelter. He pointed out a pair of metal struts he’d tied to a tree near those stairs, saying they were both propped up as part of the structure before the fire. The only way one of them could have fallen, he says, is if someone disturbed it.

C-VILLE.COM

A spokesman for the CUA911 center said Charlottesville police were investigating the incident.

According to maps at drought.gov, Charlottesville currently faces severe drought, with nearly two fewer inches of rain compared to the average year to date. At the May 4 City Council meeting, Councilor Michael Payne expressed concern that given the dry conditions, fires at the encampment could prove deadly.

“I walked there and my heart really does break,” Payne said. “And I am terrified because what is happening is not any minimum level of care; it is not meeting any level of structure that is going to help these folks …

Someone is going to die out there.”

Though Ballou says he’s been in Charlottesville since 2017, including a stretch he says he spent living in the old K-Mart near Hydraulic Road, he didn’t say how long he’d been at the encampment. He mentioned losing another makeshift structure when it collapsed under the weight of piled-up snow last January. He described it as a “workshop” where he’d go in private to paint or make crafts, including a series of fake flowers he’d created in memory of friends who’d overdosed, built partly out of the sterilized needles that had killed them.

Ballou didn’t say where he’d be sleeping that night—or in the future. He says he’d been joking about the fire with a friend earlier on Sunday: Though he’d been at the encampment for months, he says, “this is C the first time I’ve been homeless.”

— With additional reporting by Catie Ratliff

May 13 – 19, 2026

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REAL ESTATE NEWS

Going up

Divided Council overturns denial of permit for student-housing tower in Fifeville BY SEAN TUBBS

I

n the latest test of Charlottesville’s new zoning code, City Council voted 3-2 on May 4 to allow developers of a private seven-story student housing project to make minor changes to two historic buildings on Seventh Street SW. “We need more housing,” said Mayor Juandiego Wade during the Council meeting.

“This project is the best opportunity to preserve these two units.”

LCD Acquisitions filed plans last summer to construct a project called The Mark on three undeveloped properties zoned ResidentialMixed Use 5 under a code adopted in late 2023.

The project also incorporates two 19th-century brick buildings that are “individually protected properties” under city code.

On December 16, 2025, the Board of Architectural Review denied a certificate of appropriateness in a 6 to 1 vote. LCD Acquisitions appealed and Council had the power to decide at its May 4 meeting.

“The simple truth is that a 180-unit, 770bed, seven-story building is not compatible with two one-room-deep two-story buildings,” said James Zehmer, chair of the BAR. Attorney Steve Blaine represented the developer and said The Mark would give the structures a better chance of surviving into the 21st century.

“We have a structural report done in November of 2025 that shows that both these structures are in extreme disrepair,” Blaine said. “[The developer] proposes to rehabilitate these structures according to the National Park Service standards at an estimated cost of about $2 million.”

At the May 4 City Council meeting, Mayor Juandiego Wade said a seven-story student housing project on Seventh Street SW is the best opportunity to preserve the two historic buildings on the property.

Blaine was joined by Williams Mullen’s Valerie Long, who showed slides to demonstrate how The Mark’s design changed over time through interactions with the BAR, such as lowering the height behind the two houses.

“When it came time to have deliberations at the final meeting, the vast majority of the comments from the BAR members had to do with concerns about the impact of the building on the neighborhood as a whole,” Long said.

Groups such as the Fifeville Neighborhood Association and the Legal Aid Justice

Center have asked Council to rezone the property to the Core Neighborhood Overlay District, which would limit height and allow Council to impose conditions.

The zoning code is a result of the Cville Plans Together initiative, which also developed a new affordable housing strategy and a new Comprehensive Plan. The draft zoning map was first released in February 2023. Councilor Lloyd Snook said no one raised a concern about the designation during the 20 months before Council adopted the new rules.

“For better or for worse, we didn’t pay attention to that whole issue,” Snook said.

“You’ve got Walker Square, you’ve got this, and you’ve got potentially two more lots going east along there that could also be RX-5.”

Snook said he could not support the BAR’s action, and argued that Council had no power to dictate what would be done on the other properties.

The 2023 rezoning eliminated the role Council plays in determining density and height. City Councilor Michael Payne said Council still has to provide an answer if it wants to restore that power in neighborhoods subject to gentrification.

“We desperately need to have a conversation with the community about these larger issues and that is different from what’s in front of us tonight,” Payne said. “The community deserves that.”

Councilor Natalie Oschrin said the city needs additional revenue in order to pay for services demanded by the community, such as $15 million Council has committed to the first phase of the Westhaven redevelopment.

“Revenue from projects like this are what we can use to pay for our homeless shelter,” Oschrin said. “What we can use to continue the redevelopment of Westhaven, Kindlewood, South First Street, Sixth Street, those dedicated affordable housing projects. Those subsidies have to be paid somehow.”

A vote to approve the certificate was 3-2, with Councilor Jen Fleisher joining Payne C in opposition.

Albemarle supervisors agree to grant tax incentives for 60-unit Premier Circle apartments IN A COMMUNITY WITH AS MUCH WEALTH AS Albemarle, providing new housing units at an affordable price can be challenging. Nonprofit developers use many tools to subsidize costs, such as selling tax credits for money that can be used for construction.

In February 2024, Albemarle County supervisors created an Affordable Rental Housing Incentive Program to add another method to create more affordable units.

“Under the program, projects can be eligible for a grant which is equal to 15 percent of the total taxes paid on the property each year and that incentive lasts for a total of 30 years,” said Stacy Pethia, Albemarle’s housing director.

On May 6, supervisors approved the first application to use this resource. The Piedmont Housing Alliance wants to use the tax rebate to lower the cost of 60 units to be built on Premier Circle next to the 80-unit Vista29 supportive housing project that is currently under EZE AMOS (TOP), SUPPLIED PHOTO (BOTTOM)

Sixty Premier Circle apartments will be built next to the 80-unit Vista29 supportive housing project (above), which is currently under construction.

construction. Pethia said the first units there will begin to be leased by the end of the year.

Under the county’s housing policy, an affordable unit is one in which a household pays no more than 30 percent of its total income. The Premier apartments project will be a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom units with rents capped for households making 60 percent of the area median income.

The total tax rebate over 30 years would be $400,000.

This method is available to for-profit developers as well, but so far none have taken advantage.

“The fact that that hasn’t been happening with some more frequency for us to be able to figure these things out at the board level has been frustrating,” said Supervisor Ned Gallaway.

Supervisors will have a larger policy discussion about affordable housing on August 5.—Sean Tubbs

C-VILLE.COM

May 13 – 19, 2026

13

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130 CHERRYWOOD COURT $667,000 ZION CROSSROADS JAYREEVES (434) 466 -8348

1832 YORKTOWN DRIVE $799,900 CHARLOTTESVILLE MIKE PETERS (434) 981 -3995

102 WESTMINSTER ROAD $775,000 CHARLOTTESVILLE ALEX TISCORNIA (434) 327 -9292

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4229 EARLYSVILLE ROAD $425,000 EARLYSVILLE ALEX TISCORNIA

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3244 TIMBERWOOD PKWY $413,000 CHARLOTTESVILLE MICHELLE GREGORY (434) 906 -7308

21 BRIGHT ACRES COURT $378,000 BRIGHTWOOD GERRI RUSSELL (434) 531 -9581

280 RIVERBEND DRIVE UNIT 2A $312,000 CHARLOTTESVILLE KATELYN MANCINI (703) 203 -3388

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2440 BARGAMIN ORCHARD LANE $393,000 CROZET SUSAN CAMERON RERES (434) 953-5552

CHARLOT TESVILLE 434.951.5155 | ZION CROSSROADS 434.589.2611

308 EAST MAIN STREET, CHARLOT TESVILLE, VA 22902 | 5574 RICHMOND ROAD, STE 101 TROY, VA 22974 This information is believed accurate but not guaranteed.

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GORDONSVILLE ROAD

Mulberry Hill Circa 1900 in the heart of Keswick Hunt Country. Set on over 22 acres of beautiful land, offering the opportunity to build an estate home and stables on the back portion of the property. The stately residence features a 11’x23’ grand entry hall with 10’ ceilings. The original 2 over 2 home was added on to over the years. The light filled dining room and kitchen additions overlook the backyard. Wide cased openings with fine woodwork and trim lead to the parlor and living room. The one bedroom guest cottage is currently rented. Both residences qualify for historic renovation tax credits. Wonderful for gardening and has a bold stream. A charming county property. $1,390,000

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Jim Faulconer

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$4,200,000 | MLS 674329 | 37.57 Acres $8,800,000 | MLS 665249 | 212.57 Acres Jim & Will Faulconer, 434.981.0076

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$3,275,000 | MLS 671230 | Charlottesville Charlotte Dammann, 434.981.1250

$2,600,000 | MLS 675824 | Keswick Mark Mascotte, 434.825.8610

OWENSVI LLE RD

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$2,450,000 | MLS 675511 | Charlottesville Court Nexsen, 646.660.0700

$2,395,000 | MLS 676425 | Nellysford Mark Mascotte, 434.825.8610 Court Nexsen, 646.660.0700

FREE UNION RD

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$1,860,000 | MLS 672174 | Charlottesville Jeremy Fields, 434.270.1220

$1,725,000 | MLS 675385 | Keswick Charlotte Dammann, 434.981.1250

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$3,595,000 | MLS 675628 | Charlottesville Jim & Will Faulconer, 434.981.0076

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OLD GART H RD

$1,995,000 | MLS 676570 | Charlottesville Steve White, 434.242.8355

503 Faulconer Drive, Suite 5 | Charlottesville · VA · 22903 | 434.295.1131

16

May 13 – 19, 2026

C-VILLE.COM

MARION DR

$1,500,000 | MLS 676081 | Charlottesville Katherine Leddington, 646.593.0333

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GLENMORE

$1,190,000 | MLS 675549 | Keswick Jim & Will Faulconer, 434.981.0076

RI D GE ST

$995,000 | MLS 676103 | Charlottesville Charlotte Dammann, 434.981.1250

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$829,000 | MLS 674857 | Charlottesville Liberty Kalergis, 434.962.9911

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EAST JEFFERSON ST

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$1,090,000 | MLS 676405 | Charlottesville Jim & Will Faulconer, 434.981.0076

$995,000 | MLS 674034 | Earlysville Bridget Archer, 434.981.4149 Pam Dent, 434.960.0161

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$980,000 | MLS 675547 | Keswick Jim & Will Faulconer, 434.981.0076

$950,000 | MLS 675548 | Charlottesville Jim & Will Faulconer, 434.981.0076

SP RI NG CREEK

500 CO URT SQ UARE

$799,000 | MLS 674087 | Zion Crossroads Charlotte Dammann, 434.981.1250

$750,000 | Charlottesville Didier Simonin, 434.400.7255

CRABT REE FALLS HWY

VI NE YARD DR

$595,000 | MLS 2608592 | Montebello Philip Reed, 804.833.8325

$585,000 | MLS 676000 | Millboro Charlotte Dammann, 434.981.1250

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C-VILLE.COM

May 13 – 19, 2026

17

WHY CAN’T WE GET AHEAD OF THE TRAFFIC?

GOING IN

CIRCLES I

n these divisive times, there’s one thing everyone agrees on: Traffic here is terrible. With road improvement projects going on all the time—especially now, in construction season—why does it seem our roads aren’t keeping up with traffic?

Because, in fact, they aren’t. Charles Proctor, planning manager for Virginia Department of Transportation-Culpeper District (which includes Charlottesville, Albemarle County, and eight other counties) has worked on traffic planning in this area for more than 20 years. His assessment: “Lots of our projects now are more reactive than proactive.”

Plenty of factors are at play, including local growth.

From 2020 to 2025, while the population of the city stayed essentially level, Albemarle County grew by 6.3 percent; for comparison, in that same five-year

period, the University of Virginia student body grew 4 percent while UVA employment grew by 22.5 percent. Factor in that Charlottesville and Albemarle are competing for state funding with every other county and locality in the Commonwealth, under an evaluation system that favors addressing current problems over forecasted ones. Then, add in that the Commonwealth allocates its transportation funding on a six-year timeframe, and you can see why road improvements are always playing catch-up.

It’s not that people and jurisdictions aren’t trying, but the process is enormously complex. When C-VILLE contacted Kevin McDermott, deputy director of planning for Albemarle County, his response when asked about the trafficplanning process was, “Are you writing a book?”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

BY CAROL DIGGS

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May 13 – 19, 2026

C-VILLE.COM

C-VILLE.COM

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

How are problems identified?

To define the problem, VDOT uses video collection at intersections and tube counters (rubber hoses that are stretched across lanes and triggered by tires driving over them) on roadways to monitor traffic flow. Accident data from police departments is also factored in, as is information from UVA’s Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service, which tracks a wealth of local statistics for local jurisdictions and for the state. Then there are VDOT’s monthly meetings with its localities—and yes, complaints from residents. Albemarle County concerns can be submitted on its website; in Charlottesville, traffic issues can be reported through the MyCville app or by emailing traffic@charlottesville.gov. Ben Chambers, the city’s transportation planning manager, says, “A lot of what we are doing is in response to what residents are saying.”

According to Chambers, “We don’t have space to do much with the roads—and we have a road system from the 1700s. Our strategy has to be, provide other options [beyond cars].” Charlottesville requires development projects to submit a traffic demand management plan as part of the approval process, but increasingly, the goal is to foster other modes of getting around. “The city is three miles across— that’s a 20-minute bike ride,” says Chambers, but he notes “there are costs even for sidewalks and bike lanes.”

One big factor in Charlottesville’s traffic flow: UVA, the city’s largest landowner and its biggest employer. “The UVA campus and UVA employment are big destinations,” says Chambers, and meeting that need for transportation (while controlling the numbers of cars on the roads) has to include public transit, bike lanes and parking stations, and the ubiquitous VEO scooters.

Who owns the roads?

Let’s say a problem site has been identified—for congestion, safety, or a high rate of serious accidents. Who’s responsible for addressing it?

Albemarle County’s roads are owned by the state. Funding for basic repair and maintenance is available through VDOT’s Charlottesville Residency (its local office near Pantops), but any substantial needs must be met through state approval and funding.

The City of Charlottesville, as an independent city, owns its own roads, and its capital budget has allocations for the Department of Public Works (signals, signage, roadway maintenance and sidewalk repair) and the Neighborhood Transportation Improvements Program (small-scale projects).

For larger project funding, the city has to go to City Council or to the state through the Commonwealth Transportation Board.

Clearly, though, city and county roads and traffic are closely interrelated (see chart). The two jurisdictions are members of the Thomas Jefferson Planning District Commission, through which in 1982 they established the Charlottesville-Albemarle Metropolitan Planning Organization.

VDOT-Culpeper is on both the CA-MPO Policy Board and its Technical Committee, and collaborates with the county and city as well as with UVA and the regional transit and Federal transportation agencies.

which operates on a two-year cycle from application to selection. If the proposal gets selected, it’s funded under the state’s SixYear Improvement Program, so the funding may not come through for four to six years.

Once funded, the project goes out to bid on engineering and design (one to two years), after which construction usually takes one to two years. And that’s if the proposal is accepted the first time around; if, as often happens, it has to be revised and re-submitted, the whole process starts again.

As an example, the intersection of Route 240 (Three Notched Road), U.S. 250 (Rockfish Gap Turnpike), and Route 680 (Browns Gap Turnpike) east of Crozet had been flagged as a congestion and safety problem for years. A proposal for a roundabout was submitted to SMART SCALE in 2016, but not funded; a subsequent effort to get federal funding was approved, but shelved when construction costs soared during COVID. In early 2023, VDOT decided to resubmit that proposal as part of a bundle of Albemarle County projects, to help reduce costs.

Construction began in May 2025 and was completed in March this year.

Where does the About those money come from? roundabouts …

Funding for major projects, however, doesn’t get allocated by our local VDOT district. All major road construction and improvement proposals have to go through the Commonwealth’s funding process, competing against other projects statewide for a slice of the limited pie— $58.4 billion for FY 2026-2031.

Major projects are fed through SMART SCALE, a process that evaluates projects based on factors such as safety improvement, congestion reduction, increased accessibility, contribution to economic development, efficient land use, and environmental impact. SMART SCALE scores and ranks proposals, and, after a public review and comment period, the Commonwealth Transportation Board selects projects to be approved and funded.

This process is why road improvement projects take so long (see sidebar). A proposal can take one to two years to be developed and submitted to SMART SCALE,

Mention roundabouts, and you’ll probably get an earful. Love ‘em or hate ‘em, why are so many roundabouts springing up in this area?

To traffic planners, roundabouts (or traffic circles, the larger versions that may have stop signs or traffic signals in them) are often the way to go; McDermott declares, “I’m in the camp of loving them.” According to the Federal Highway Administration, roundabouts are safer due to their reduced conflict points (eliminating left turns against oncoming traffic, one of the most dangerous aspects of a regular intersection) and slower speeds (15-25mph on average).

FHA figures show roundabouts reduce intersection crashes that result in death or injury by 82 percent on average.

The safety factor is all in the design.

Road engineers lay out the approaches to roundabouts to slow entering traffic (as opposed to signal lights, which McDermott says “make people speed up—they’re

Roundabout: 101 Need help understanding how roundabouts work? Here’s how to do it.

Slow down before you enter: The objective is to enter the roundabout at the speed of traffic in it. If it’s a multi-lane roundabout (like the one at Hillside and Hydraulic roads near Whole Foods), look for signs that tell you which lane to use whether you intend to turn right, go straight through, or turn left.

Yield to traffic coming from the left: Traffic only goes one way in a roundabout. If someone’s coming around, let them

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pass before you enter. It’s like merging—you’re joining moving traffic.

Enter when it’s clear: Once there’s a safe gap, glide in smoothly. Don’t stop abruptly or gun it.

Stay in your lane: Don’t change lanes unless signs or markings specifically say so.

Signal your exit: Use your signal so other drivers know what you’re doing.

Or, just memorize the FHA’s simple mantra: “Slow down, look around, be ready to yield.”—CD

trying to beat the light”). At a slower speed, if an accident occurs it’s likely to be less severe for both people and vehicles. And those accident figures—and costs—are data points that go into setting insurance rates in Virginia.

Roundabouts are also designed to keep traffic moving. The FHA says roundabouts can reduce traffic delays by 62-74 percent; “a roundabout can process more cars in an hour than a signal,” says McDermott.

The result: less emissions from idling vehicles, and less frustration from waiting through several signal changes at times of heavy traffic flow. In addition, drivers entering a roundabout only have to look one way (to the left) rather than both ways to detect approaching traffic.

An important factor: SMART SCALE uses a cost/benefit approach that favors innovative solutions that provide greater benefits at lower cost. In addition to roundabouts, this includes diverging diamonds (Route 250 and I-64 at Pantops); continuous green-T intersections (protected left turn, soon to be constructed at Rio Road

The two-land hybrid roundabout near Whole Foods on Hydraulic Road at Hillsdale Drive, which opened in August 2024, has been the site of several crashes thanks to congestion and confused drivers.

According to Kevin McDermott, deputy director of planning for Albemarle County, “a roundabout can process more cars in an hour than a signal.”

The result: less emissions from idling vehicles, and less frustration while waiting through several signal changes when traffic is heavy.

EZE AMOS

East and Belvedere Boulevard); and restricted crossing U-turns, or R-cuts (the North Pointe entry on 29 North).

Of course, a roundabout isn’t always the best or even a possible solution. The layout requires a certain amount of space, especially if the traffic passing through includes a high percentage of big trucks and industrial vehicles with a larger turning radius. Roundabouts don’t work well on slopes, which is one reason hilly Charlottesville doesn’t have many of them.

Critics say that roundabouts take up land and create more impermeable surfaces. McDermott points out that increasing signaling complexity (adding turn lanes, for example) also requires more space, and roundabouts are increasingly being designed with non-paved centers to allow for rain absorption.

But the basic reason that people object to roundabouts is that most American drivers haven’t learned to navigate them.

As roundabouts become more common, drivers will have to get with the program.

Chambers notes that “virtually every cor-

ridor into the city has a roundabout”—installed or planned. Recognizing that, driver’s education classes in Albemarle County schools now teach students how to handle a roundabout. Just like learning to ride a bike, it takes practice.

What’s next?

The good news is, a solution for the traffic problem you’re venting about today may already be in the pipeline. A visit to the Culpeper District projects page on the VDOT website shows proposals for a roundabout on Hydraulic Road at District Avenue (to mitigate the impact of eliminating the left turn from Hydraulic onto southbound 29/Emmet Street); an extension of Berkmar Drive as far as Airport Road; and reconfiguration of the 250 Bypass/Fontaine Avenue intersection to manage congestion from UVA Health South’s expansion and replace the left turn across northbound 250 to reach I-64 West.

Then there are the projects already set for construction, including: a park-and-

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ride lot near I-64 Exit 107 in Crozet, a multi-lane roundabout at Rio Road East and John Warner Parkway, a roundabout at Routes 20 and 53, at the turnoff for Monticello, and a redesign of the Route 20/250 intersection at Pantops Clearly, we’re in for a lot of road construction. And these are just the projects that directly affect Charlottesville; there are also studies and proposals to address issues for Fluvanna and Orange counties, Zion Crossroads, and the entire Route 29 corridor. But one thing is for sure: By the time these projects are proposed, approved, designed, and constructed, there will be new congestion points and overloaded roadways.

The underlying question is, how will our area manage the growth that we keep inviting? As VDOT’s proctor points out, “Land use is controlled by the localities.” That means the traffic planners can review comprehensive plans, require traffic impact studies, and forecast traffic needs—but in the end, it’s our elected officials who decide when, where, and how much development C will happen. And they work for us.

May 13 – 19, 2026

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ST. PAUL & THE BROKEN BONES MOE. | DANIEL DONATO'S COSMIC COUNTRY KITCHEN DWELLERS | KELLER WILLIAMS MOUNTAIN GRASS UNIT | EGGY | MAGGIE ROSE DUMPSTAPHUNK | JOHN BROWN'S BODY | SHADOWGRASS

G F O R U S!

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CLAY STREET UNIT | YARN | HOLY ROLLER | DIZGO CATILIN KRISKO & THE BROADCAST | TAN & SOBER GENTLEMEN ROOSTER WALK HOUSE BAND | ISAAC HADDEN | KINDRED VALLEY PAUL MCDONALD AND THE MOURNING DOVES | AND MANY MORE!

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May 6 – 12, 2026

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CULTURE MUSIC | ART | BOOKS | FOOD | DRINK

THROUGH 5/24

IT’S PRONOUNCED 'YUH-RID-I-SEE' Director Devynn Thomas brings a fresh take on one of the most frequently retold Greek myths with playwright Sarah Ruhl’s Eurydice. This reimagining breathes new life into the classic tale of Orpheus’ descent to the underworld, centering the plot around the perspective of its heroine. Employing contemporary characters and ingenious plot twists, the impactful story of love lost stars Kate Johnson as Eurydice, Robert Wray as Her Father, Alex Griffith as Orpheus, and ‘Derby Thomas’ as Lord of the Underworld. $15, times vary. Four County Players, 5256 Governor Barbour St., Barboursville. fourcp.org

PROMOTIONAL PHOTO

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May 13 – 19, 2026

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CULTURE TO-DO LIST munity Cville offers an engaging journey through Charlottesville’s often overlooked or unknown local history. Free, 6pm. The Center, 540 Belvedere Blvd. thecentercville.org

The Greenhorns. A seven-piece band blends New Orleans funk, jump blues, R&B, and a little jazz. Free, 7pm. Pro Re Nata, 6135 Rockfish Gap Tpke., Crozet. prnbrewery.com

classes

stage

Paint + Sip: Sunset Bridge. Paint the supplied design in a step-by-step format. No experience necessary, all materials and first drink included. $40–45, 6pm. Pro Re Nata, 6135 Rockfish Gap Tpke., Crozet. prnbrewery.com

Eurydice. See listing for Thursday, May 14. $15, 8pm.

Four County Players, 5256 Governor Barbour St., Barboursville. fourcp.org

etc.

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 Paramount On Screen: National Theatre Live in HD—The Audience. Returning to cinemas for the first time in over a decade, Helen Mirren plays Queen Elizabeth II in the Olivier and Tony awardwinning hit production, directed by Stephen Daldry. $14–20, 7pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net

SATURDAY 5/16

DEAR TRACKS Richmond-based mead the dear offers a cosmic-country sound steeped in old-time influences. The act functions as an outlet for songwriter Michael Hirsch to blend a bevy of interconnected inspirations—folk revival, traditional Appalachian arrangements, podunk country, summer-of-love psychedelia, and a little downtrodden rock ‘n’ roll. In a scene that’s seen its fair share of Americana mashup acts come through town, mead the dear stands out as having united disparate elements into a holistic style, delivering strong original material. Free, 8pm. The Stage at WTJU, 2244 Ivy Rd. wtju.net

Wednesday 5/13 music Open Mic Night. Mic check to all musicians, poets, and everyone in between. Free, 9pm. Holly’s Diner, 1221 E. Market St. The Wavelength. Vintage rock, blues, and original music for your mid-week music boost. Free, 6:30pm.

The Whiskey Jar, 227 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thewhiskeyjarcville.com

classes Watercolor Card Making Workshop. Led by a professional artist, providing instruction and guidance at a comfortable pace. No experience necessary, all materials included. $30, 6pm. Blue Ridge Brushes Studio, 1110 E. Market St. #13h. blueridgebrushes.com

etc.

Dürty Karaoke. Consistently voted Charlottesville’s best karaoke. Free, 8:30pm. Dürty Nelly’s, 2200 Jefferson Park Ave. durtynellyscharlottesville.com Rapture Karaoke. Hosted by Thunder Music. Free, 9pm. Rapture, 303 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. rapturerestaurant.com

Thursday 5/14 music Andrew Marlin & Josh Oliver. Two members of Watchhouse perform as a duo, playing a mix of original songs alongside covers and traditional arrangements. $43, 8pm. The Southern Café & Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com

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May 13 – 19, 2026

Batesville Open Mic Night. Music, singing, poetry, spoken word—everyone is welcome to participate. Hosted by Jordan Redifer and Mark Douglas. Free, 2pm. The Batesville Market, 6624 Plank Rd., Batesville. batesvillemarket.com Berto and Vincent. Lively flamenco rumba. Free, 7pm. The Bebedero, 201 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thebebedero.com The Bearded. Folksy solo stuff with a banjo. Free, 8pm. Dürty Nelly’s, 2200 Jefferson Park Ave. durtynellyscharlottesville.com

stage Eurydice. With contemporary characters, ingenious plot twists, and breathtaking beauty, Sarah Ruhl’s play is a fresh look at a timeless love story. $15, 8pm. Four County Players, 5256 Governor Barbour St., Barboursville. fourcp.org Little Dancer: A New Musical. The premiere of a new original musical inspired by the life of Marie van Goethem, ballerina and model for Degas’ sculpture “The Little Dancer, Aged Fourteen.” $10, 7pm.

Charlottesville High School Black Box Theatre, 1400 Melbourne Rd. zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/littledancer-a-new-musical The Hound of the Baskervilles. When Sir Charles Baskerville is found dead on the moors with a look of terror on his face and paw prints by his body, Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson are called to unravel the curse of the hound. $35–75, 7:30pm. Blackfriars Playhouse, 10 S. Market St., Staunton. americanshakespearecenter.com

words Historic Preservation Lecture Series: Shining Light on Charlottesville’s Hidden History. Com-

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Vineyard Puzzle Hunt. Like an escape room but at a winery. Crack codes and unravel riddles while sampling Charlottesville’s best wine, beer, and cider.

Play when you want and go at your own pace. $15, 5pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. puzzledbee.com

Little Dancer: A New Musical. See listing for Thursday, May 14. $10, 7pm. Charlottesville High School Black Box Theatre, 1400 Melbourne Rd. zeffy.com/ en-US/ticketing/little-dancer-a-new-musical The Hound of the Baskervilles. See listing for Thursday, May 14. $35–75, 7:30pm. Blackfriars Playhouse, 10 S. Market St., Staunton. american shakespearecenter.com The Life of Marie Gaglione. A group of crack improvisers riff on Gaglione’s live, unedited readings from her own journals. Plus an opening set

by Big Blue Door’s resident spring team, Hot Tee. $10, 7pm. McGuffey Art Center, 201 Second St. NW. bigbluedoor.org

classes Craft Night: Painted Canvas Totes. Led by a professional artist, providing guidance at a comfortable pace. Designs are customizable. No experience necessary, all materials included. $30–35, 6pm. Blue Ridge Brushes Studio, 1110 E. Market St. #13h. blueridgebrushes.com

Friday 5/15

etc.

music

Brewery Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Thursday, May 14. $15, noon. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. puzzledbee.com

Bob Bennetta Trio. Live jazz. Free, 6:30pm. Afghan Kabob House, 200 Market St. afghankabob-house.com Chickenhead Blues Band. Charlottesville’s premier boogie-woogie, up beat, rhythm and blues dance band. Free, 6pm. Chisholm Vineyards at Adventure Farm, 1135 Clan Chisholm Ln., Earlysville. chisholmvineyards.com Eli Cook Band. Music from the crossroads of blues, the highways of rock, and the backroads of country.

Free, 9pm. Holly’s Diner, 1221 E. Market St. Fridays After Five: Chamomile and Whiskey.

Rowdy Americana led by Nelson County-native musicians Marie Borgman and Koda Kerl. With Rebecca Porter. Free, 5:30pm. Ting Pavilion, 700 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. tingpavilion.com Hot Mammas Duo. An eclectic collective of femme multi-instrumentalist singer-songwriters combine grit, humor, harmonies, and sass as their vehicle for taking audiences on madcap musical adventures. Free, 5pm.

Bottle House, 608 W. Main St. bottlehouse.net John Kelly. Singer-songwriter with more than two decades of solo acoustic performing experience.

Free, 5pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwoodfarmandwinery.com Ken Farmer & the Authenticators. A priceless night of rocking good fun. Free, 6pm. Glass House Winery, 5898 Free Union Rd., Free Union. glass housewinery.com Magoo. New progressive bluegrass band from Denver, Colorado. $19, 8pm. The Southern Café & Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com Matthew O’Donnell. Traditional folk singer and multi-instrumentalist. Free, 5pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwoodfarm andwinery.com Nightfall of Diamonds: Grateful Dead Jams.

Members of Alligator, The Cows, BC, and 77z come together for a night of magic. Free, 5:30pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potters craftcider.com Pat Anderson. A roots rocker possessed of tough-minded country-rock sensibilities. Free, 5pm. DuCard Vineyards, 40 Gibson Hollow Ln., Etlan. ducardvineyards.com

Vineyard Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Thursday, May 14. $15, 5pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. puzzledbee.com

Saturday 5/16 music Alex Angelich Record Release Party. Angelich celebrates the release of her new album. With New Boss and 7th Grade Girl Fight. $16, 7:30pm.

The Southern Café & Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com Anthony Semiao. A performer who grew up on ’80s metal and glam rock, but just cannot get enough of the acoustic guitar sound. Free, 12:30pm.

Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwoodfarmandwinery.com Ben Reade. A seasoned singer-songwriter whose roots are planted in the Blue Ridge Mountains, giving him a unique style where Americana collides with improvisational jam rock. Free, 2:30pm. Albemarle CiderWorks, 2545 Rural Ridge Ln., North Garden. albemarleciderworks.com Blue Healer. Hits and deep cuts from the classic rock and blues canons. Free, 5:30pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potterscraftcider.com Mama Tried. A five-piece band plays high-energy versions of early Grateful Dead songs, plus their own material, with a heavy accent on improvisation. $10, 7pm. The Batesville Market, 6624 Plank Rd., Batesville. batesvillemarket.com mead the dear. Cosmic country rockers led by songwriter Michael Hirsch. Free, 8pm. The Stage at WTJU, 2244 Ivy Rd. wtju.net Mike Proffitt. An afternoon of rhythm and views featuring a mixture of original and classic acoustic rock. Free, 2pm. DuCard Vineyards, 40 Gibson Hollow Ln., Etlan. ducardvineyards.com Pack of Wolves. Crafting a blend of original songs and cover tunes infused with blues, power pop, and blue-eyed soul with a jam-band vibe.

Free, 7pm. SuperFly Brewing Co., 943 Preston Ave. superflybrewing.com SUPPLIED PHOTO

CRITICAL CONDITION CULTURE Perennial Collection. Dynamic vocal harmonies and jazz-infused arrangements to please the ear and move your feet. Featuring female-led vocal covers of R&B, soul, hip-hop, and jazz tracks. Free, 5pm. Glass House Winery, 5898 Free Union Rd., Free Union. glasshousewinery.com Rivanna Roots: Fonville x Fribush featuring Charlie Hunter. Trailblazing organ-centered trio carries the authenticity of soul-jazz giants. With live-composed funk collective Choose Your Own Adventure. $17–20, 6:30pm. Rivanna River Company, 1520 E. High St. frontporchcville.org

New Dominion 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

classes Cricut 101. Learn the ins and outs of basic Cricut work, with a primary focus on using cardstock. Personal machines and laptops are recommended for this class. Ages 15+. $35, 10:30am. The Scrappy Elephant, 1745 Allied St. scrappyelephant.com

Steep Canyon Rangers. Demonstrating an unusual ability to honor traditional bluegrass forms while allowing contemporary songwriting, literary influence, and regional storytelling to seep naturally into the music. $33, 8pm. The Jefferson Theater, 110 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. jefferson theater.com

Expressive Glass Panel Workshop. Design and craft a beautiful glass panel that’s uniquely yours in this hands-on, one-day workshop. Students will create an impressive fused glass artwork to showcase in a decorative metal stand. $175, 10am. The Glass Palette Interactive Glass Art Studio, 1304 E. Market St. theglasspalette.net

Strange Desire: An Electric INXS Experience.

On a mission to slam you with hit after INXS hit and spank you with sing-along, sexy swagger. Free, 7pm. Pro Re Nata, 6135 Rockfish Gap Tpke., Crozet. prnbrewery.com

Fabric Mosaics: Create Your Own Kinusaiga Art. Craft a square art panel from foam board and fabric scraps—turning leftover textiles into something beautiful in this no-sew fabric-art class. Ages 16+. $30, 10am. The Scrappy Elephant, 1745 Allied St. scrappyelephant.com

The Wavelength & Michael Elswick. Vintage rock, blues, and even some jazz. With special guests Michael Elswick on sax and Augie Lupino on drums.

Free, 5pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwoodfarmandwinery.com

stage Eurydice. See listing for Thursday, May 14. $15, 8pm.

Four County Players, 5256 Governor Barbour St., Barboursville. fourcp.org Little Dancer: A New Musical. See listing for Thursday, May 14. $10, 7pm. Charlottesville High School Black Box Theatre, 1400 Melbourne Rd. zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing /little-dancer-anew-musical Mayday! An Improv Comedy Show. An internationally recognized distress signal serves as the theme of Goat Rodeo Comedy Co.’s new improv show mining anxieties to create characters, connect storylines, and turn SOS into LOL. $5–10, 7pm. Light House Studio: Vinegar Hill Theatre, 220 W. Market St. lighthousestudio.org The Hound of the Baskervilles. See listing for Thursday, May 14. $35–75, 2pm and 7:30pm. Blackfriars Playhouse, 10 S. Market St., Staunton. american shakespearecenter.com

words Light ON Blackfriars. In-person conversations bring together the artists and scholars behind the productions to explore the choices shaping each show. This week: Dr. Ralph Alan Cohen on building the playhouse. $7, 11am. Blackfriars Playhouse, 10 S. Market St., Staunton. american shakespearecenter.com

Making Miniatures 101: Furniture with Wooden Materials. Bring your imagination and a love for detail to this cozy, hands-on introductory workshop. Ages 16+. $30, 3pm. The Scrappy Elephant, 1745 Allied St. scrappyelephant.com Nature Speaks! A Poetry Workshop. Providing multiple paths for poets to write about nature, amidst earth, wind, fire, and water. Free, 10am. Central Library, 201 E. Market St. jmrl.org Simple Keepsake Box. An introductory workshop where participants learn to construct a small box from simple materials—discovering how thoughtful design transforms an everyday object into something beautiful. Ages 18+. $35, 1:30pm. The Scrappy Elephant, 1745 Allied St. scrappyelephant.com

etc.

Brewery Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Thursday, May 14. $15, noon. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. puzzledbee.com Car Show & Community Fun Day. Featuring a car show, food, raffle prizes, games, sand art, face painting, fire-spinning jugglers, bake sale items, and a day of fun for the whole family. Free, 10:30am.

Our Lady of Peace, 751 Hillsdale Dr. our-ladyof-peace.com Charlottesville City Market. Explore seasonal fruits and vegetables, baked goods, hot breakfast, global flavors, unique crafts, and more from 100+ local vendors. Free, 9am. Charlottesville City Market, 100 Water St. E. charlottesville.gov Vineyard Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Thursday, May 14. $15, 5pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. puzzledbee.com CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

Fonville x Fribush featuring Charlie Hunter

A

B3 model Hammond organ from jazz by operating as a trio. In the studio, 1962, like the type Sam Fribush sets the result of working with guitarist and himself up behind, weighs upwards pedal steel player Alan Parker yielded 30 of 310 pounds—and that’s just the console tracks of one-take jams that were distilled unit alone. Throw the bench and a Leslie into What Day Is It (2025), a sometimes speaker in, and you’re easily crossing the trippy, sometimes head nod-inducing 400-pound threshold. When your instrubunch of bops that refashion what would ment of choice rivals the usual transportaotherwise act as a mirror to a retro-mindtion concerns drummers contend with— ed platform. An organ trio could easily fall their whole painful lives—you’ve really back on nostalgia, but this recasting of a committed yourself. vaguely out-of-fashion configuration gets So when Greensboro, North Carolina, nanew life in their capable hands.

At this performance, guitar duties will be tive Fribush joins his drumming partner, Corey Fonville (of Richmond’s Butcher Brown), handled by Charlie Hunter, who has the disto headline the Rivanna Roots Concert Series, tinction of playing customized seven- and it’s a safe bet that they’ll be laying down the eight-string models that give his technique musical equivalent of, what they called on a chance to simultaneously pump out bass “The Sopranos” “coming heavy” (see season lines. His singular style should lend another layer to what’s already likely to be an inter1, episode 5, when Uncle Junior tells Tony: esting back and forth between the namesakes “Next time you come, you come heavy or not of the operation at all.”). In other words, if you’re rolling riverside with this much musical gear and the Opening the show before sundown, improperformance chops to back up such sonic visational Choose Your Own Adventure offers machines, you don’t plan on messa funk fusion via woodwinds, keys, Rivanna River ing around. bass, and drums that should be the The duo accomplishes heights Company right amuse-bouche before the of virtuosity in groove-oriented Saturday 5/16 main course.—CM Gorey

SATURDAY 5/16

BACK TO BASICS Steep Canyon Rangers is back, and the group’s returning to a more focused sound. Touring to promote its 15th studio album—set to release May 22—the band of string pickers and strummers is returning to the bluegrass foundations that served as its genesis. After years of collaborations with acts like Paul McCartney, The Chicks, the Asheville Symphony, Boyz II Men, and of course, comedian/musician Steve Martin, a conscious turn back to traditional arrangements represents a return to form that fans are ready to embrace. $33.20, 8pm. The Jefferson Theater, 110 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. jeffersontheater.com

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May 13 – 19, 2026

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CULTURE EXTRA CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25

Sunday 5/17 music Acoustic Union. A mixture of Americana, singersongwriter, and improvisational jam music. Free, 2pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potterscraftcider.com An Lár Traditional Irish Music. A fun-loving traditional band plays fast-paced jigs and full-throttle reels, alternating with lyrical waltzes and melancholy airs. Free, 2pm. The Batesville Market, 6624 Plank Rd., Batesville. batesvillemarket.com Gina Sobel and Matt Draper. Americana and bluesy tunes. Free, 2pm. Glass House Winery, 5898 Free Union Rd., Free Union. glasshousewinery.com Hokie Joe. A blues guitarist plays and sings a wide variety of relaxing and soulful music, including blues, classic rock, old county, and original tunes. Free, 2pm. DuCard Vineyards, 40 Gibson Hollow Ln., Etlan. ducardvineyards.com The Trio. Dan Barrale, Bill Edmonds, and Eric Franzen play jazz. Free, 1pm. Chisholm Vineyards at Adventure Farm, 1135 Clan Chisholm Ln., Earlysville. chisholmvineyards.com The Wavelength. A full band performance with special guest David Drubin on drums and Michael Elswick on sax. Free, 1pm. Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyard, 594 Merrie Mill Farm, Keswick. merrie millfarm.com

stage Eurydice. See listing for Thursday, May 14. $15, 2:30pm. Four County Players, 5256 Governor Barbour St., Barboursville. fourcp.org Little Dancer: A New Musical. See listing for Thursday, May 14. $10, 2pm. Charlottesville High School Black Box Theatre, 1400 Melbourne Rd. zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing /little-dancer-anew-musical The Hound of the Baskervilles. See listing for Thursday, May 14. $35–75, 2pm. Blackfri-ars Playhouse, 10 S. Market St., Staunton. americanshakespeare center.com Who Killed the Church. God’s Drama Ministry in conjunction with the Senior Ministry present a stage play written by a member of the church. Free, 4pm.

Mt. Zion First African Baptist Church, 105 Lankford Ave. mtzionfabc.org

classes Oil Painting for Everybody: Animal Edition.

Learn oil painting in an approachable and organized format rendering a fauna-based composition. Beginner focused, but open to all skill levels. Ages 14+. $45, 2pm. The Scrappy Elephant, 1745 Allied St. scrappyelephant.com

etc.

Beyond the Vineyards Wildlife Presentation.

Meet select animal ambassadors from the Wildlife Center of Virginia, each with their own unique story and connection Virginia’s ecosystems. Free, noon. DuCard Vineyards, 40 Gibson Hollow Ln., Etlan. ducardvineyards.com Brewery Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Thursday, May 14. $15, noon. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. puzzledbee.com Music Bingo. Listen to your favorite music, match the songs to the titles on your bingo cards, and win great prizes. Free, 2pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwoodfarmandwinery.com UVA Planetarium Constellation Tours. Learn about the stars and planets from the Dark Skies, Bright Kids portable planetarium. Free, 1pm. Albemarle CiderWorks, 2545 Rural Ridge Ln., North Garden. albemarleciderworks.com

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May 13 – 19, 2026

Artistic pursuits Art history, ballet, and musical theater coalesce in Little Dancer

BY CM TURNER

L

ittle Dancer: A New Musical, an original play written and produced by local daughter-father duo Olivia and Chris Colvin, is set for its stage debut. Inspired by the life of Marie van Goethem, the young ballerina who modeled for Edgar Degas’ famous sculpture Little Dancer Aged Fourteen (1878–81), the performance imagines how van Goethem’s years beyond the spotlight may have played out—in the absence of a clear historical record.

The ambitious effort began when Olivia Colvin needed a homeschooling project to pursue while traveling with family. She had discovered a love of theater in her freshman year at Charlottesville High School, and the story of van Goethem intrigued the Colvins for multiple reasons—including Olivia’s own background as a ballet dancer, and the narrative flexibility provided by a concrete setting without known specifics of the subject’s full life.

“We wrote the bulk of the script during my sophomore year of high school in a little bubble of travel where we could spend eight hours a day on the script if we wanted to,” Olivia says. Chris explains that Olivia took the lead on script development, and that both Colvins worked closely on the underlying story and initial revisions.

Olivia, now in her senior year at CHS, and her father have engaged a spirited assembly of community members and CHS students to see the project to full fruition. While Little Dancer is a fully volunteer production that is not an official school program, CHS theatre department director David Becker has been a resource, supporter, and collaborator. The Colvins also worked with Live Arts’ Interim Producing Artistic Director Miller Susen, among others in the local performing arts community, to help develop aspects of the play. Earlier this school year, the Colvins recruited some of Olivia’s friends who are also active in CHS’s theatre program, and formed the Little Dancer DevelopVineyard Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Thursday, May 14. $15, 5pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. puzzledbee.com

Monday 5/18 music Ramona Martinez. Local favorite serenades with her signature mix of country western and mariachi. Free, 5:30pm. The Fitzroy, 120 E. Main St. thefitzroycville.com

etc.

Not Bored Games. Teens 11–18 are invited to play board or card games introduced by other teens.

C-VILLE.COM

Ruby Hoier, Eleot Abrahamson, and Connor Ash perform in Little Dancer: A New Musical.

ment Group to help finalize the book and score, present staged readings, and ultimately perform the show live.

“The biggest support has come from all of the students who have volunteered to make costumes, props and photos, design projections, play in the band, run lighting and sound, come to readings, workshops, and rehearsals, perform in productions, take photos, etc.,” Chris says. “It is a really remarkable testament to the desire kids—really, all of us—have to be part of something in person and creative and meaningful and the need to feel useful and make a contribution.”

While this is not the first time van Goethem’s story has been adapted to the stage— a musical theater spectacle of the same title directed and choreographed by Tony Awardwinner Susan Stroman premiered at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., in 2014—it is likely the first time the scant source material has been elaborated on by artists who are roughly the same age as the

subject they’re exploring. “I think the story speaks broadly to people, but to high school audiences in particular,” Chris says.

Little Dancer: A New Musical represents a unique undertaking where young creatives have a chance to imagine how being in proximity to art might impact a life, how being a performer brings its own set of challenges and possibilities. As Olivia notes, “The performing arts [are] all about human emotions, stories, and experiences, and when we start to ignore those innately human things, we start to lose sight of each C other’s humanity.”

This month: Villainous. Free, 5pm. Central Library, 201 E. Market St. jmrl.org

words

Tuesday 5/19 music Jo & Ray Enke. Folk/Americana duo blending heartfelt vocal harmony with acoustic guitar and banjo.

Free, 7pm. Dürty Nelly’s, 2200 Jefferson Park Ave. durtynellyscharlottesville.com Tuesday Jazz with Jeff Massanari. A cast of great players joins the guitar virtuoso. Free, 6:30pm. Rapture, 303 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. rapturerestaurant.com

Charlottesville High School Black Box Theatre Thursday 5/14–Sunday 5/17 zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/ little-dancer-a-new-musical

Pursuits of Knowledge: Conversations at Monticello. An ongoing series of conversations with scholars and authors. This week: Beverly Gage, professor of history and American studies at Yale University, discusses her book, This Land is Your Land: A Road Trip through U.S. History. $10, 6pm. Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, 931 Thomas Jefferson Pkwy. monticello.org

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 EMMET LECLERE

SMALL BITES CULTURE

Ferocious appetites

The Enemy throws in, Peter Chang returns, and chicken persists BY SARAH GOLIBART GORMAN

I

Openings

f you love the empanadas at Cumbre Bakery, try them all dressed up at the Downtown Mall’s newest fine dining restaurant, The Enemy. Opened in late April in York Place, this new creation from Cumbre founders Augusto Rodriguez Araoz and Juan Brandan sees their beloved bakery roots flexed into a full menu—while the original East Jefferson Street bakery lives on. IG: @theenemyrestaurant

Blue ribbons and brain freeze Ice cream season is coming on, and Moo Thru is scooping up more than just cones.

The Fauquier County cow-to-cone operation took home three awards at the North American Ice Cream Association’s annual Ice Cream Clinic last fall: blue ribbon for vanilla, red for strawberry, and white for chocolate. Judged on everything from flavor to melt (yes, melt!), the competition drew more than 2,000 entries from across the U.S. and Canada. dairymarketcville.com

MORE TO CHEW ON SATURDAY 5/23 & SUNDAY 5/24 Couples in Transit: An Evening with Shakespeare’s Lovers. The Wayne Theatre offers a redefined dinner theater experience where the audience and actors share the same space on a restored vintage train car that moves through the countryside. Featuring scenes from Romeo and Juliet, Much Ado About Nothing, The Tempest, and more. $167, 4pm. Virginia Scenic Railway, 415 Bridge St., Staunton. virginiascenicrailway.com

FRIDAY 5/29 Veritas Supper Series: French Bistro Dinner. A family-style supper series spotlights seasonal and regional foods in a chef-driven dining experience. $100, 6:30pm. Veritas Vineyards and Winery, 151 Veritas Ln., Afton. veritaswines.com

SATURDAY 5/30 Pints on Preston. A celebration and showcase of the Charlottesville Ale Trail’s craft beverage makers. $15–75, 1pm. Fifth Season Gardening/Rockfish Brewing, 900 Preston Ave. charlottesvillealetrail.org

FRIDAY 6/5 Summer Sundown. Watch the sun descend behind the Blue Ridge Mountains with live acoustic music from local performers and food trucks on site. Free entry, 6pm. Chiswell Farm & Winery, 430 Greenwood Rd., Greenwood. chilesfamilyorchards.com

TRISTAN WILLIAMS

The owners of Cumbre Bakery serve a dressed-up version of their empanadas at The Enemy, an upscale eatery that recently opened in York Place on the Downtown Mall.

A Virginia-style feast

retiring, but winemaker Emily Hodson and CEO George Hodson will continue leading the charge. veritaswines.com

The Omni Charlottesville Hotel is setting the stage for an intimate new dining experience. The Virginia Table is a private, byappointment feast for eight to 12 guests, featuring a signature craft cocktail, a fourcourse seasonal dinner, and curated Virginia wine pairings with each course. Reservations require 48 hours’ notice, so gather your crew and come hungry. Inquire at chochvleads@omnihotels.com.

Check in, chow down

Passing the vines Big news at Veritas Vineyard and Winery: The beloved estate is set to be acquired by Veritas Legacy Partners, a local ownership group led by Charlottesville entrepreneur Kurt Wassenaar and Eric Trebour. Veritas founders Patricia and Andrew Hodson are

Charlottesville’s newest stay has arrived.

Virginia Guesthouse Hotel, now open in the University of Virginia’s Ivy Corridor, blends hotel, conference space, and a trio of dining options open to locals. At Poplar, expect elevated comfort food, like an egg croissant Benedict with green goddess hollandaise, lime-seared tuna Niçoise, and a Dr. Pepper bourbon bread pudding worth lingering over. Head upstairs to The Perch, a breezy rooftop bar pouring $6 happy hour drinks (plus complimentary barbecue bacon popcorn). On the go? The Counter Café has your coffee covered. virginiaguesthouse.com C-VILLE.COM

Plot twist: Peter Chang wasn’t gone for long.

Signage at the former Barracks Road spot confirms a new Peter Chang concept is on the way, with city permits showing a $455,000 renovation afoot. The banner says “coming soon,” with summer 2026 as the target. Different name, same master behind the wok—stay tuned.

April showers bloomed a new restaurant at the Glass Building. Aster, an American fine-dining affair with Nordic, Japanese, and French touches, is the brainchild of chef Drew Dunston (formerly of Marigold) and beverage manager Caleb Russell. The menu highlights Virginia’s seasons and farms. Start with Angels’ Monastery Gouda from the Trappistine monastery near Crozet and follow with confit cabbage with Carter’s Mountain apple and peanut salsa macha. astercville.com Dairy Market’s former Cumbre Bakery space is getting a new chapter with the arrival of Kafe Mont Bleu, open in late April.

Founded by Madison-based roaster Gardy Jean Gilles, the café expands a wholesale coffee operation into a full Haitian-inspired café experience. Expect French-style pastries and sweet and savory crêpes alongside specialty drinks like hot and iced protein lattes.

A new player has landed on the Corner: Nash & Smashed has taken over the former 7DAYS Junior Deli & Bar space. With more than 20 locations across the U.S. (and even the U.K.), the halal-certified spot serves up antibiotic-free hot chicken, smashed burgers, hand-crafted milkshakes, and family-style buckets for sharing. Come hungry (and maybe keep a napkin handy). nashandsmashed.com

Closings After one final round on April 26, LW’s Livery Stable officially rode off into the sunset.

The downtown bar, once a 19th-century stable, then an A&P grocery store, and finally a go-to for wings and beers, faces demolition, with a banner out front declaring “the wrecking ball cometh.” The owners shared via Facebook that they won’t be relocating: “No moving,” they said. “We’re closing on a high note… It’s nice to be able to go out on top.”

Murphy & Rude Malting Co. will close May 31 after plans to relocate fell through.

The local malt house, instrumental in linking Mid-Atlantic farmers with brewers and distillers, is winding down operations on Broadway Street and selling off remaining inventory. Homebrewers, take note: Some malts C are going for under a buck a pound.

May 13 – 19, 2026

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53RD WINERY AND VINEYARD

WINE

A note from Winegrower and Owner, Dave Drillock

DOWN WHAT’S DELISH AT LOCAL WINERIES?

It has been a rough start to the growing season. Our Louisa vineyard took a big hit, especially the younger vines while the Simmons Gap vineyard in the Monticello AVA had losses but not nearly as much as Louisa. We’ll have a better feel of the damage in about 2-3 weeks.

We have some great events the rest of the month with a limited release wine, our petit Verdot 2023 followed by our annual Uncorking Norton event. A special tasting of Nortons from 53rd and several other wineries plus a food and wine pairing at 2:30.

We invite you to visit our serene, meadow-like location in rural Louisa County. We pride ourselves on being genuine and approachable, eager to share our passion for wine without any scripted lines or memorized facts, just a warm and welcome atmosphere.

May events Saturday, May 23rd: 2023 Petit Verdot This full-bodied red is characteristic of suede like tannins and notes of black cherry, black plum, cola, blackberry and eucalyptus. We can’t wait to share this wine with you.

Limited release.

Food Truck: Blue Ridge Pizza Co. Live Music: Danny Kensy 1-4pm Saturday, May 30th: Uncorking Norton, A Celebration of Virginia’s Native Grape.

Food and Norton Wine Pairing with several wineries at 2:30pm. Limited tickets left. https://www.exploretock.com/ fiftythirdwineryandvineyard/ event/605887/uncorking-norton-acelebration-of-virginias-native-grape Live Music: Matty and Mirabelle Metcalfe 1-4pm

WINERY

DUCARD VINEYARDS

Guide Map

PRINCE MICHEL VINEYARD AND WINERY

REVALATION VINEYARDS 29

HARRISONBURG

STANARDSVILLE

EARLY MOUNTAIN VINEYARDS

15

340

HORTON VINEYARDS

29

GORDONSVILLE

KESWICK VINEYARDS

CROZET AFTON

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EASTWOOD FARM AND WINERY

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SPECIAL ADVERTORIAL SECTION

33

LOUISA

CHARLOTTESVILLE

HARDWARE HILLS VINEYARD

ZION CROSSROADS

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15

Saturdays & Sundays- Live music every Saturday and Sunday in March from 2-5 pm. Come to DuCard for the afternoon with family and friends and enjoy a variety of live music (no cover). Bring a picnic or select some local fare from our lite noshing menu to pair with our awardwinning wine for a fun afternoon in our amazing mountain setting.

Open daily Mon-Thurs. 12-5 pm Fri. 12-9 pm Sat/Sun. 12-6 pm 40 Gibson Hollow Ln Etlan, VA 22719 (540) 923-4206 www.ducardvineyards.com

EARLY MOUNTAIN VINEYARDS At Early Mountain, our world class wines are featured in a restaurant grounded in the same sense of place.

Reserve your table for indoor or outdoor seating and enjoy our latest releases alongside an à la carte menu or seasonal wine-paired prix fixe.

The Meadow is open for the season!

We’re offering a casual picnic-style menu, paired with wines by the bottle, glass, or flight. No reservation needed, weather dependent.

Tasting Room Hours Thursday - Monday: 11:00 am - 5:30 pm Fridays: 11:00 am - 8:00 pm Closed Tuesday and Wednesday Spring Events & Experiences Edible Insight: The Art of Raw Cooking June 6, 2026 | 1:00–4:00 PM An interactive culinary experience exploring the elegance and precision of ceviche, crudo, tartare, and carpaccio with Executive Chef Tim Moore and Chef de Cuisine Kristen Hall.

Begin with a live demonstration, then create and plate your own dish using seasonal ingredients. The experience concludes with a family-style dinner inspired by the techniques explored

DUCARD VINEYARDS

ORANGE

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Cheers!

Open 7 days a week, 11 am – 5 pm Sat/Sun. 12-6 pm 13372 Shannon Hill Rd Louisa, VA 23093 (540) 894-5474 • 53rdwinery.com.

MADISON

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For more details, please check our website at www.53rdwinery.com or call us at 540-894-1536.

for the most up to date listings of our upcoming live music and events!

53RD VINEYARD & WINERY

2025 Rosé Our new Rosé is a classic, dry Provençal style wine with a gorgeous coral color. A perfect pairing for the patio, this wine is simply delightful and exhibits a vibrant mouthfeel with notes of green tea and stone fruit.

We are open 7 days a week throughout the month of April with live music every weekend. Visit our website and our social media pages

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May 13 – 19, 2026

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throughout the afternoon.

In the Vineyard with Maya Hood White & Jon Ruel June 27, 2026 | 11:00 AM–1:30 PM A rare opportunity to spend the afternoon in the vineyard with Maya Hood White and Jon Ruel.

Walk the vines overlooking the estate as conversations unfold around the decisions that shape what ends up in the glass. Then take your place at a table set among the vines for an open-air, family-style lunch with wines selected for the season.

Summer Supper Somm July 11, 2026 | 6:00–9:00 PM Our second annual Summer Supper Somm returns following a sold-out debut and one of last year’s most talked-about events.

This five-course, wine-paired dinner highlights peak-season heirloom tomatoes from Village Garden RVA, brought to life through Chef Tim Moore’s artful and expressive approach.

Friday Dinner Hours & Chef’s Table Fridays | 5:30–8:00 PM Enjoy dinner hours every Friday! Later evenings invite you to enjoy seasonal dishes on the patio or in the Tasting Room as the sun sets.

The Chef’s Table experience offers an intimate, seven-course menu paired with select wines.

Seats are limited.

Scan to plan your visit.

6109 Wolftown-Hood Rd, Madison, VA 22727 (540) 948-9005 www.earlymountain.com

EASTWOOD FARM AND WINERY

SPARKLING BLANC DE BLANCS & VIRGINIA OYSTERS Celebrate the spring season with a glass of our sparkling brut Blanc de Blancs and oysters on Friday nights!

Salty Bottom Blue will be here every Friday night this spring serving their delicious raw and grilled oysters, which pair beautifully with a glass of our gold medal Sparkling Blanc de Blancs. Delicious to enjoy on its own, with Salty Bottom Blue oysters, a toasty seasonal flatbread or warm crab dip, or with one of your other favorite menu items. Let us pop the cork on a bottle for you!

Upcoming at the Winery: Virginia Oyster & Wine Celebration | Every Friday Starting April 1 Enjoy our Virginia Oyster & Wine Celebration every Friday night this Spring! The oysters are prepared by Salty Bottom Blue. Enjoy them in a relaxed, fun atmosphere with live music from 5-8pm on the stage in our tasting room.

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May 13 – 19, 2026

Wine Slushies are Back!

Cheers to the beautiful weather with a refreshing wine slushie:)

Monday May 25: Open 12-5 with lunch and dinner menus available all day

Music Bingo | Sunday, May 17th, May 31st, June 14th 2-4PM (open 12-5PM) Everyone loves singing along with their favorite songs and who doesn’t love a competitive game of Bingo?

Music Bingo brings together the best of both worlds for a high energy game that is fun for everyone. Simply listen to the music, match the songs to the titles on your music bingo cards, and win great prizes!

Meritage Blending Workshop, June 11th 6-8PM Join us for a hands-on workshop where you get to be the winemaker!

You’ll sit down to a table with beakers and flasks, and our winemaking team will walk you through the steps of making a great blend. Plus, there is some friendly competition involved and one of the team’s blends will be deemed the winner! Ticketed Event Reserve Your Spot On Our Website

Paint & Sip | Sunday, May 24 122PM (open 12-5PM) Grab a glass of wine (or your favorite drink!) and let your creativity flow in our relaxed and fun Paint & Sip classes. Whether you’re an experienced artist or a first-time painter, the talented instructors of Blue Ridge Brushes will walk you through the painting process as you create your own masterpiece.

Ticketed Event - Reserve Your Spot On Our Website

Juneteenth Celebration | Friday, June 19 12-4 (Open 12-8PM) Celebrate Juneteenth at Eastwood for a wine release party with Tasha Durrett of ZC Wines, a special wine & cupcake tasting with Krissy Cakes, a flower bouquet popup with We Grow and music all day! Curious about Juneteenth food traditions?

Looking for a unique way to honor the day? Join Black Women Who Wine on Friday, June 19. See Schedule & Details On Our Website.

Graduation Weekend | May 14th, 15th, 16th and 17th Both the main tasting room (the Barn) and the Tent and Terraces overlooking the orchard will be open all weekend!

We are open from 12-8pm Friday and Saturday, and 12-5pm on Sunday.

Please note that while outside food is not permitted in the main tasting room where our lunch/dinner menus are served, you are welcome to bring picnics to the Tent or pre-order from our catering menu unless you’d like to order food in the Barn to carry up to the Tent. Parking is available in both spaces.

Father’s Day Maker’s Market and Live Music| Sunday, June 21st 12-5PM Join us for a funday celebrating Dad and all the father figures in your life!

Celebrate with a laid back afternoon the whole family can enjoy. Shop at the artisan maker’s market, savor live music on the stage, and treat dad to a cold beer, crisp cider or one of our award-winning wines.

Thursday, May 14: Porch Nights with live music by John Kelly on the veranda Friday, May 15: Oyster and Wine Celebration with Matthew O’Donnell on stage in the Barn Saturday, May 16: Anthony Semiao on stage 12:30-3:30PM, The Wavelength on stage 5-8PM Sunday, May 17: Music Bingo 2-4 (open 12-5) Memorial Day Weekend | Thursday, May 21 - Monday, May 25 Join us all weekend for Live Music, Free wine tastings (new release), Oyster and Wine Celebration, and cornhole. Ask at the bar about our Pay It Forward beverage program to honor our veterans by purchasing them a free drink that veterans can redeem all weekend.

Thursday May 21: Porch Nights with live music by Ty Burkhardt on the veranda Friday May 22: Oyster and Wine Celebration with Rusty Speidel and Tom Goodrich on stage 5-8PM; Free wine tastings 5-8PM Saturday May 23: Sue Harlow on stage 12:30-3:30PM, Pamela Ryder & Mighty Fine Company on stage 5-8PM; Free wine tastings 5-8PM Sunday May 24: Matthew O’Donnell on stage 2-5; Paint and Sip 12-2; Free wine tastings 12-5PM

C-VILLE.COM

MUSIC AT EASTWOOD! Join us for the popular Porch Nights every Thursday with live music on the veranda and Eastwood After Dark on Saturdays featuring upbeat, danceable music from 5-8pm (in addition to our more mellow Saturday afternoon music program).

Eastwood also hosts a range of live performances by talented local and regional musicians every Friday night and Sunday afternoons. See the Winery Calendar on our website for details.

Every Thursday (open 12-8PM): Porch Nights Live Music on the Veranda 5-8PM Every Friday (open 12-8 PM): Live Music and Virginia Oyster & Wine Celebration, every Friday 5-8PM Every Saturday (open 12-8 PM): Live Music 12:30-3:30PM + Eastwood After Dark with Live Music 5-8PM Every Sunday (open 12-5 PM): Live Music or Music Bingo (See the Winery Calendar on our website for details.)

Also Open Monday through Wednesday 12-5 PM and Thursday 12-8PM What about the kids?

Kids can share in the experience with their own juice tasting flights and cheese boards!

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! Winery Hours: Sunday-Wednesday (12-5 PM); Thursday-Saturday (12-8 PM)

We look forward to welcoming you to our tasting room, seven days a week.

Join us for award-winning wines, beer, and cider, as well as a delicious lunch/dinner menu. Escape to Virginia Wine Country, only five miles from Downtown Charlottesville. Open year-round, seven days a week.

Pet friendly and large groups are welcome. Ample indoor and outdoor seating.

Rt 20 near the intersection with Avon Extended (5 mi from Downtown Mall) Charlottesville, VA 22902 (434) 264-6727 www.eastwoodfarmandwinery.com

HARDWARE HILLS VINEYARD Cottage White This newly bottled wine is flying off the shelves! We are so proud to bring estate grown Vidal Blanc and Seyval Blanc together and blend it with the perfect touch of Monticello AVA Petit Manseng. DELIGHTFUL! Crisp and fruity with notes of lime and orange blossom. Enjoy it as a porch sipper or with grilled chicken or fish.

May is a BIG month at the Hills! Have you checked out our Social Media yet? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. We promise a few laughs!

May 14th, 6:30 p.m.- Music Bingo is back! This night is so fun. Songs you’ve forgotten might just end up on your BINGO CARD! Prizes every round and food/wine available for purchase. The games start at 6:30 p.m.

May 15th, 5:30 p.m. - Live Music with Rick Hollowell! Rick is a great performer and loves taking requests.

Come join us for a fun May evening of great music, wine and food.

May 21st, 6:30 p.m. - Friendly Feud Night. SURVEY SAYS! Gather your team and come see how many answers you can match from popular polled questions. This night is a hilarious round of thinking outside the box and teamwork!

May 22nd, 5:30 p.m.- Live Music with the LOST BEACH BAND! So fun. These guys bring the party and we can’t wait. Bring your flip flops and get ready to boogie with us. Food truck on premises tonight.

SPECIAL ADVERTORIAL SECTION

May 23rd, 2 - 4 p.m. - SUNDAY B-IN-G-O. Good old fashioned Sunday bingo! Grab your friends and come hang out with us for an 80’s music themed afternoon. $5 cover charge.

May 29th, 5:30 p.m.- Scuffletown.

Back by demand. This fun duo will have you tapping your toes while you sip some great Hh wines. Join us for a warm evening of outdoor Friday night vibes!

May 30th - We will be closing at 5 p.m. for a WEDDING! Congratulations Jared and Morgan!

Hours- We will be open during our regular winter hours 5199 W River Rd, Scottsville, VA 434.286.4710 • www.hardwarehills.com

KESWICK VINEYARDS May at Keswick Vineyards!

May is one of the most beautiful times of year at Keswick Vineyards.

The vines are waking up, the views are lush and green, and there’s no better time to settle in with a glass of wine and enjoy everything the season has to offer.

Live Music Every Saturday | 12–4 PM Spend your Saturdays enjoying great wine, live local music, and beautiful vineyard views.

Wine Down Wednesday | Every Wednesday | 5:30–8:30 PM Unwind midweek with live music, great food, and your favorite Keswick wines.

Barrel & Board Food Truck | Wednesday–Sunday | 12 PM–Close Enjoy handcrafted bites perfectly paired with your favorite wines.

Last food orders taken 30 minutes before closing.

Waves of Flavor: Memorial Day Seafood Weekend | May 23–24 | 11 AM–5 PM Try Fabulous Foods returns for two

days only with our featured Seafood Trio Platter: ½ lb Maryland-style steamed shrimp, ½ lb fried oysters, and one handmade crab cake for $35 per person. Pair it with a glass from the tasting room and enjoy live entertainment for the perfect seafood-and-wine weekend.

Memorial Day Festival | Monday, May 25 Join us for an unforgettable day of wine, food, and family fun! Live music

by Big Gavel Country Band, Cousins Maine Lobster Truck, Popitos Pizza, Face painting and temporary tattoos with Lady Val & friends, Barrel & Board open with Keswick favorites.

Relax, sip, and celebrate Memorial Day with us in the vineyard.

Virginia’s Most Rewarding Wine Club—Now Even Better!

Our wine club is now fully customizable while still offering all the benefits you love: exclusive events, incredible savings, and first access to new releases. There’s something special about May in the vineyard, and we’d love to share it with you.

Come sip, savor, and make the most of the season with us!

Hours: Open 7 Days a Week Sunday–Tuesday & Thursday | 10 AM–5 PM Wednesday | 10 AM–8:30 PM Friday–Saturday | 10 AM–6 PM Food, flights, and open bottle service end 30 minutes prior to closing daily 1575 Keswick Winery Drive Keswick, Virginia 22947 Tasting Room: (434) 244-3341 ext 105 tastingroom@keswickvineyards.com www.keswickvineyards.com

PRINCE MICHEL VINEYARDS

Nestled in the heart of Virginia Wine Country and proudly woman-owned, Prince Michel blends tradition with a modern, welcoming atmosphere that invites you to slow down, sip deeply, and enjoy the season of love.

This month, we’re featuring our Rapidan River Chocolate Red, a smooth, velvety blend crafted for cozy nights and romantic celebrations.

Made from 43% Chambourcin, 18% Merlot, and 39% Cabernet Sauvignon, this irresistibly satisfying wine layers dark berry fruit with rich cocoa warmth for a truly decadent experience. Enjoy it slightly chilled, over ice, or as a luxurious after-dinner treat—it’s the perfect companion for chocolate desserts, fireside evenings, or special celebrations.

Beyond the bottle, Prince Michel offers more than just great wine.

From tastings and scenic views to delicious bites and craft beer at Tap 29 Brew Pub, every visit is designed to feel special!

Live Music every Friday–Sunday (lineup on our website) Trivia every Monday, 6–7:30 p.m.

Tuesday is Beer & Wings Specials Day Happy Hour every Thursday, 3–5 p.m.

Open 7 days a week at 11 a.m.

154 Winery Lane, Leon, VA 22725 (540) 547-3707 www.princemichel.com A Woman-Owned Business

VIRGINIA WINE COLLECTIVE Expanded Hours, Wine, Beer and Pizza Join us at Eastwood Farm and Winery’s new production facility and downtown bar and lounge featuring a pizza shop menu, beer on tap, and winemaker wine flights.

The Collective is now open every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 5-10PM with revamped loft and shuffleboard.

Upcoming at the Collective: Winemaker Pop-Ups | Select Fridays 6-8PM (Open 5-10PM) Enjoy free samples and tour the facility with some of our independent winemakers on Fridays! Check out events on our website: (https:// eastwoodfarmandwinery.com/virginiawine-collective/) and Facebook page as we will be adding more dates.

May 15th: Erin and Sandy Robertson -Dogwood and Thistle Wines May 22nd: Chris Tropeano - Present Company June 12: Julie Linker - Delve Wines June 19th: Jake Busching - Jake Busching Wines June 26th: Josh Cataldo - Cataldo’s Perfezione Winemaker Karaoke | Every Other Wednesday, May 13th and 27th; June 10 and 24th from 7-9PM (bar and dining room still open to the public 5-10PM)

writers will take the mic to share readings from their short stories and poetry, showcasing their creativity and unique voices in a warm, welcoming setting.

Production Tours and Guided Tastings We look forward to welcoming guests to the Virginia Wine Collective for tours and guided tastings. Please email our Wine Collective Coordinator, Gabrielle Thomas, if you would like to schedule a tour or guided tasting.

She may be reached at gabrielle@ eastwoodfarmandwinery.com Large Party Reservations Interested in making a large party reservation for your group? Reach out to mary@eastwoodfarmandwinery. com to book.

About the Collective Eastwood designed the Virginia Wine Collective to include nine winemaker suites and an incubator alongside the main production area. The suites provide a space where independent winemakers can anchor a license and make their wines. The Collective has been designed to reduce the costs associated with independent winemaking, and thereby support further innovation and talent in the Monticello AVA. Over 21 Policy You must be over 21 to visit the bar, lounge and dining room at the Collective.

Current Winery Hours Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays 5-10PM 1585 Avon Street Extended Charlottesville, VA 22902 (434) 264-6727 https://eastwoodfarmandwinery.com/ virginia-wine-collective/

Join us up in the loft at the Collective every other Wednesday evening. No cover required.

Open Mic Writer’s Night | Thursday, May 21st, 6:30PM (open 5-10PM) Join us for our newest feature, Open Mic Writer’s Night, an evening celebrating the written word. Local SPECIAL ADVERTORIAL SECTION

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May 13 – 19, 2026

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FOR FUN PUZZLES SUDOKU

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May 13 – 19, 2026

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PUZZLES FOR FUN CROSSWORD BY MATT JONES

My Ames is true ACROSS 1. 1996 gymnastics star Kerri 6. Opposite of fore, at sea 9. Senate hearing channel 14. “Rice-___, the San Francisco treat” 15. Short story?

16. Airy courtyards 17. Broadcast signal carrier 19. Very resonant 20. Aussie verb ender 21. Habit that’s best broken 22. Occupy a tent 23. Name of multiple British earls (one of which changed his name slightly and wrote the first Gothic novel) 28. Question’s opposite (abbr.)

29. “___ gratia artis” (MGM motto) 30. Sat ___ (GPS system) 31. Part of G&T 32. Threesome 34. Game before a final 35. Soundproofing square 39. Shouts of inspiration 40. Deli loaves 41. Grind 42. Oscar-winning Telugulanguage film 43. 2006 World Series winners, on scoreboards 44. “Mad Men” protagonist Draper 45. Electronic identifier embedded in sound files to protect copyright 51. ___ wat (national dish of Ethiopia) 52. Fashion designer Cassini

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53. Shortest English sentence with a subject and verb 55. Between 0 and 90 degrees 57. Series of Nintendo microgames featuring a squigglymustached villain 59. Breads for gyros 60. That thing, in Spanish 61. Consumed 62. Meeting on the sly 63. Pig pen 64. Actresses Meg and Jeri

DOWN 1. Rajasthan wrap 2. Refuse 3. Event involving big bucks?

4. Corn opener?

5. Actor Ribisi of “Avatar: Fire and Ash” 6. Ancient counters 7. “Hawaii ___” (CBS police drama) 8. Boot end 9. Conspiratorial groups 10. Put your foot down 11. Person arguing in favor 12. Goal 13. No vote 18. They may be about you 22. Christmas song 24. Fridge invasions 25. Banshee’s sounds 26. Gold fabric 27. Immorality 31. Sentry’s job 32. Choreographer Tharp 33. “Call Me Maybe” singer Carly ___ Jepsen

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Free solo A M A N A M O N G M E N R E L A T I V E M A X I M U M E L E C T R O P O S I T I V E T R A I T N I G H Y M U L A N O M N I D E U T P I N E L O G I D E T S P P A S C A L S W A G E R W H A T S I N T H E B O X N E G O T I A T I O N S L A W I L L O M E N C A L E S S E S C O D E E K E Y R E V E S A T L A S S E L L T H E B U S I N E S S T A S T E D S I M I L A R T O A R L E N S P E C T E R

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35. Singer Bareilles 36. “No ___ Traffic” (street sign) 37. “In a day ___” (the really high lyric of “Take On Me”) 38. End-of-year school event attendee 43. Most peeved 44. Three, in Trier 46. Minuscule amounts 47. Pop-up restaurant offering?

48. “The Jetsons” son 49. Cattle rustler’s tool 50. ___ Blixen (Isak Dinesen’s real name) 54. Store department that sells ties 55. Fitting 56. Fig. with a diameter 57. “Fantastic Mr. Fox” director Anderson 58. Method

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May 13 – 19, 2026

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Who’s the best?

That’s up to you.

Nominations for Best of C-VILLE 2026 are underway!

Get your favorites on the list at bestof.c-ville.com.

Nominations: April 15 to May 15 Voting: May 30-June 30 SPONSORS:

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May 13 – 19, 2026

C-VILLE.COM

FREE WILL ASTROLOGY FOR FUN

By Rob Brezsny

Gemini

(May 21-June 20): I suspect you would benefit from engaging with a friendly devil’s advocate or two in the coming weeks. Your clarity and understanding will deepen in just the right ways if you converse with affectionate skeptics who like and respect you but also want to help you grow. I realize that such people may be hard to find.

If you can’t locate any, you could hire one.

Or do the next best thing: Argue with yourself. Entertain lines of thought that are contrary to your usual ideas. Don’t let your habitual self get away with its usual rationalizations. The benefits of this exercise will be unpredictably huge.

Cancer

(June 21-July 22): In the Northern Hemisphere, the North Star holds a fixed place in the sky. Also known as Polaris, or the Pole Star, it hangs in almost the same spot throughout the night while other stars rise and set. Because of this steadfast presence, it has long served as a trusted marker for navigation, especially for sailors at sea. Over time, it naturally came to represent an inner compass or a guiding ideal. In your own experience, Cancerian, what serves as your symbolic North Star? What’s the steady, orienting force that helps you decide where and how to move next? Now is an auspicious moment to tend to and revitalize your bond with this central source of direction.

Leo

(July 23-Aug. 22): In the mid 1950s, researchers developed reliable methods for creating synthetic diamonds in the laboratory. Since then, advances in technology have made it possible to grow large, highquality diamonds from small seed crystals in a relatively short time. I invite you to make this one of your operative metaphors, Leo. In the coming weeks, the forces of destiny will align with your efforts if you experiment with nurturing and expanding the parts of your life that are most like a diamond. Facilitate the development of your valuable beauty.

Virgo

(Aug. 22-Sept. 22): Scientist Stuart Kauffman theorizes that living systems are healthiest when they operate near the “edge of chaos.”

There’s a critical zone between rigid order and unstructured randomness where complexity and adaptability can flourish. Too much organization creates brittle stiffness, while excessive chaos prevents coherence.

Life thrives when it has some of both. I invite you to ruminate on these themes in the coming weeks, Virgo. According to my edgy analysis of the astrological omens, you’re being invited to cultivate and foster your own personal “edge of chaos” territory. Your interesting task is to create sweet spots where structure and spontaneity

(April 20-May 20): Soil biologists say a teaspoon of productive soil may contain billions of living organisms. These bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and nematodes work in cooperative networks, generating a hidden abundance that ensures everything above ground thrives. Your TAURUS immediate future has this quality, Taurus. Beneath the visible surface of your life, beneficial processes are generating fertility and possibility. You don’t need to see the miracle to trust it’s happening. Your role is simply to have faith as you maintain the conditions that allow this mysterious abundance to do its work. synergize. Locate these happy places and abide there for a while.

Libra

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Choose two small and specific ways you’re going to stop pretending.

One example might be how you respond when someone asks how you’re doing. Another may be an opinion you’ve been softening to keep the peace. Or maybe there’s a desire you’ve been downplaying because it feels impractical or too revealing. Here’s the name of this experiment: Incremental Precision Liberation.

The key is to do it casually, with no melodrama or self-consciousness. If it’s successful, you could try another round in two weeks.

Scorpio

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Scorpio primatologist Frans de Waal devoted years to watching chimpanzees reconcile with each other after enduring discord. He was fascinated by how they rebuilt trust through elaborate rituals of appeasement, grooming, and kind gestures. Once the chimps stopped fighting, he marveled, they actively repaired their connection, which often emerged stronger than it was before the dispute. I hope you will borrow their primate wisdom in the coming weeks, Scorpio. Do your best to navigate through conflict or alienation, and then instigate generous acts of rebonding. Don’t sulk, be evasive, or go silent. Be creative as you work to replenish what was damaged.

The renewed relationship could be closer for having weathered the difficulties.

Sagittarius

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): The wandering albatross harnesses the wind, enabling it to travel vast distances with minimal effort. There’s an

initial effort that leads to big energy savings.

The bird climbs into strong winds and then relaxes as it gets transported, surfing the air currents. I mention this, Sagittarius, because I suspect you’ve been trying too hard and working too much—unnecessarily so. Less strenuous exertion, more gliding, please!

Ask yourself what flows are already streaming in your favor. Could you catch a ride on existing momentum? Here’s my advice: Figure out where life’s tides are already moving, then position yourself to get carried along.

Capricorn

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Ethnomusicologists studying throat singing know that Tuvan singers can produce two or more tones simultaneously. The human voice, it turns out, has the ability to harmonize with itself. Most of us never discover this because we never try.

What other multidimensional capacities are you not using because you’ve never investigated them or tested their limits, Capricorn?

The coming weeks are ideal for experimentation. What unexpected capacities might you get access to if you explored possibilities you’ve assumed were beyond you? You may be able to develop aptitudes and acquire gifts you haven’t discovered yet.

Aquarius

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Cartographer Gerardus Mercator created his famous world map in 1569, enabling sailors to plot straightline courses across oceans. But his technique dramatically distorts the size of landmasses. Greenland appears larger than Africa, when in reality Africa is 14 times bigger. And the truth is that every map privileges certain truths while distorting others. This is a key teaching for you right C-VILLE.COM

now, Aquarius. Examine the mental maps you’re using to navigate your life. Might they be hiding or warping reality in any way? Consider whether you would benefit from redrawing your inner visualizations of the wide, wild world out there.

Pisces

(Feb. 19-March 20): Perfectionism has increased dramatically in recent decades.

Young people are especially affected. But here’s the twist: The compulsion for perfection rarely improves performance. It’s more likely to undermine achievement by triggering paralysis and excessive self-criticism.

Now is a favorable time for you Pisceans to rebel against the trend. I encourage you to cultivate a relaxed devotion to being “good enough” as you enjoy yourself thoroughly.

Do you know the difference between cheerfully seeking excellence and grimly striving for perfection? Move away from what demands your obsessive rigor and focus on what requires soulful completion.

Aries

(March 21-April 19): When naturalist John Muir wanted to experience a storm, he climbed to the top of a 100-foot Douglas fir and rode it for hours through gale-force winds. He later reflected that the danger, in his judgment, was “hardly greater” than staying under a roof, and that the exhilaration and sensory richness justified his experiment.

I’m not counseling you to be exactly like Muir in the coming weeks, Aries. Please don’t take foolish risks. However, I would love you to explore what truths are available when you put yourself in the path of intensity.

Expanded weekly audio horoscopes and daily text message horoscopes: RealAstrology.com, (877) 873-4888

May 13 – 19, 2026

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P.S. THE HOTSEAT Judge, jury, and litterateur Best-selling author Bruce Holsinger knows what it takes to produce rock-solid fiction.

The writer, professor, and Guggenheim fellow penned Culpability, the 116th selection of Oprah’s Book Club. His novel The Gifted School earned a Book of the Month Club selection and won the Colorado Book Award, and The Displacements was named the inaugural title in the United Nations Read for Action Book Club. Holsinger’s essays and reviews have appeared in The New York Times and Vanity Fair, and he’s been profiled on NPR’s Weekend Edition, Here & Now, and Marketplace. He’s also the judge of First Page, a free contest for adult fiction writers that serves as the culmination of WriteNow!—a community campaign to inspire creative writing. Submissions for First Page run through May 31 at writerhouse.org.

In light of the contest, we put Holsinger in the HotSeat.

If you could be reincarnated as a person or thing, what would you be? The Lindisfarne Gospels, an illuminated manuscript of the early eighth century.

Worst part of living here: The Wine Guild closed.

Favorite Charlottesville restaurant: Oakhart Social Favorite Charlottesville venue: Old Cabell Hall

Are there any superstitions you abide by? Knocking on wood

Favorite Charlottesville landmark/attraction: The Farmers Market at IX

Most embarrassing moment: Missing a bass clarinet solo in Mahler’s first symphony.

Bodo’s order: Everything with cream cheese, lox, onion, tomato.

Do you have any pets? A problematic cat named Sparky.

Describe a perfect day: Mid-50s in October, partially cloudy.

Favorite movie and/or show: “The Wire” Favorite book: David Copperfield

by Charles Dickens

Name: Bruce Holsinger Age: 58

Who’d play you in a movie?

Alan Alda

Pronouns: He/him/his

Go-to karaoke song: “White Christmas”

Hometown: Annandale, Virginia Job(s): Professor of medieval literature, fiction writer

What’s your comfort food/ meal? Tuna melt on sourdough

What’s something about your job that people would be surprised to learn? It’s destroyed my lower spine.

Subject that causes you to rant: Politics, politics, politics.

Best journey you ever went on: Pacific coast of South America

How do you define fiction in literature? The art of the plausible.

Next journey: Freiburg, Germany Favorite word: I’ll give you a phrase instead: “unbokele the male,” which is Middle English for “unbuckle the chain mail.” It’s the medieval knight’s equivalent of taking off uncomfortable work clothes and throwing on sweats at the end of a long day.

Why is it important to support fiction writing and literature?

The arts embody and activate our imaginations. Without fiction, we would be trapped in our own sad, small, narrow little worlds.

What are you working on right now? A new novel called The Beta Test, taking on the so-called masculinity crisis in our authoritarian age.

Hottest take/most unpopular opinion: Half and half is disgusting in coffee.

What have you forgotten today? That I had a deadline to finish these questions.

Best advice you ever got: Start your next book ASAP, and don’t look back.

First Page is a free contest for fiction writers ages 18+, sponsored by WriterHouse and C-VILLE Weekly as the culmination of WriteNow! For full First Page submission guidelines and more information about WriteNow! events, visit writerhouse.org.

Proudest accomplishment: Helping to raise my two sons.

Best parts of living here: Mountains, food, wine.

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May 13 – 19, 2026

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TRISTAN WILLIAMS

FIRST PAGE a fiction contest for adults WriteNow

Now is the Time to Tell Your Story!

First Page is a free contest for fiction writers sponsored by WriterHouse and C-Ville Weekly as the culmination of WriteNow! – a community campaign to inspire creative writing!

Events will take place throughout May 2026 at JMRL branches. To learn more about WriteNow events, please visit www.writerhouse.org.

HOW TO ENTER Email the first page of your original, fictional story to programs@writerhouse.org st

Submissions open May 1 - May 31 . One entry per person.

Include your title at the top of the page.

Include contact email, mailing address, and phone in the email body. No identifying information in the entry itself.

HOW WILL THE WINNERS BE CHOSEN? Best-selling author Bruce Holsinger (bruceholsinger.com) will select the winning entry and a runner-up.

Judge’s decision is final.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I WIN?

Winner

FORMATTING REQUIREMENTS 250 words or fewer (title not included) Times New Roman, 12pt, double-spaced, on white unlined paper

ELIGIBILITY

$200

Visa Gift Card

Runner-Up $100

Visa Gift Card

Winners notified directly; results posted at writerhouse.org and C-VILLE Weekly with links to the winning entries.

Winners will receive their prizes by mail.

Ages 18+ (turning 18 by May 1, 2026 qualifies) Submissions must be unpublished – online or in print WriterHouse and C-VILLE Weekly employees are not eligible to participate Must reside in Central Virginia (city of Charlottesville or counties of Albemarle, Greene, Augusta, Fluvana, Nelson, Buckingham or Madison) By entering, you affirm you have read and understand the contest rules and give permission to display or publicize your submission.

For full submission guidelines, visit writerhouse.org.

Additional questions?

Contact us!

programs@writerhouse.org

434.282.6643

WriterHouse is a 501(c)3 organization and is partially supported by the Virginia Commission of the Arts.

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