C-VILLE Weekly | April 10 - 16, 2024

THE NOSE KNOWS SUMMER CAMP GUIDE INSIDE

Kim Brooks Mata, Producer and Artistic Director

April 18-20 at 8pm

Ruth Caplin Theatre

The spring concert will showcase student and faculty work alongside a new piece choreographed by guest artist Ronya-Lee Anderson. Each of the works presented in this concert anchors in the concept of connection, how we relate to ourselves, one another, a physical place, an experience or identity, as well as the impact of past connections on our present and future.

Paramount Presents:

Dr. Grandin discusses the importance of complementary skills of people who think in pictures, patterns or words. Tuesday,

Paramount Presents:

Paramount Presents:

STEPHEN BARLING

THIS WEEK

Hello, Charlottesville! Thank you for reading C-VILLE Weekly. According to the American Pet Products Association, dogs are by far the most popular pet in the United States, with 65.1 million American households owning a canine companion (compared to 46.5 million households with cats). I’m not trying to knock cat owners—I love all our furry friends—but dogs occupy a special place in society, from cozying up to us at home to working alongside us in our jobs.

This week’s feature story (p. 22) introduces the bloodhounds of central Virginia, who work with police officers in Charlottesville and the surrounding counties. In Andrew Hollins’ story, you’ll meet excitable bloodhounds Blue and Lucy, the officers who work with them, and the handlers who manage the dogs for their respective departments. It’s extraordinary to me how well trained these bloodhounds are. At first, they act like typical dogs—scampering about, slobbering all over, begging for affection—but they snap to attention as soon as they’re called to action. And once their job is done, they’re back to their normal selves.

4.10.24

I can’t imagine any dog I’ve ever had working a job. I know that it’s technically possible, but I have no idea what the little scruffy guys would do, unless tearing up squeaky toys and napping can lead to professional opportunities. Then again, I’m not the most demanding trainer. Perhaps with a stricter regimen, teeny

Benefiting the Makindu Children’s Program and presented by:

AFRICAN INSPIRED DINNER BY THE CATERING OUTFIT

REGGAE CONCERT WITH MIGHTY JOSHUA

APRIL 13, 2024 AT POTTER’S CRAFT CIDER

Open to Public

GATES OPEN AT NOON NO TICKET REQUIRED

12:00 - 5:00 MAMA SAMOSAEAST AFRICAN STREET FOOD BY TCO

12:00 PM SECOND CHILDHOOD

1:00 PM THE POLLOCKS

2:00-4:00 PM SIP & PAINT WITH CATELYN KELSEY DESIGNS

2:00 PM TYLER DICK

3:00 PM JOSH MAYO

4:00 PM MUSICAL SUSPECTS

EVENT VENDORS INCLUDE:

Ticketed Event

SCAN TO PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS

5:30 PM HORS D’OEUVRES BY TCO

6:00 PM TALK WITH MICHAEL FARLEY

6:30 PM KENYAN INSPIRED DINNER BY TCO

7:00 PM AUCTION (SESSION ONE)

7:30 PM MIGHTY JOSHUA

[SET BREAK] AUCTION (SESSION TWO)

FROM TCO TO POTTER'S CRAFT CIDER, COURTESY OF HOP ON TOURS! VISIT @THECATERINGOUTFIT SOCIALS FOR DETAILS

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

“Nanotechnology has vast untapped potential to benefit patients everywhere.”

Melina R. Kibbe, MD, dean of UVA’s School of Medicine, on the appointment of Evan A. Scott to lead the Institute for Nanoscale Scientific and Technological Advanced Research

NEWS

IN BRIEF

Mika Meyers memorial

Albemarle County Fire Rescue held a memorial service for firefighter Mika Meyers, who died off duty on March 29. Over 100 firefighters attended the April 6 service at the Monticello High School auditorium. An obituary posted on the Hill & Wood Funeral Service website says Meyers’ family “is steadfast, moving forward, about stripping the stigma, shame and misunderstanding of mental illness and suicide. This is a disease, not a flaw of character.” At press time, a GoFundMe had raised over $45,000 for Meyers’ family.

Sips for SARA

Four local breweries have partnered with the Sexual Assault Resource Agency to raise money for the organization during Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Each brewery has created a limited edition drink flavored with Simcoe hops, with a portion of proceeds going to SARA. Decipher Brewing and SuperFly Brewing Company kicked off the month-long fundraiser last week with release parties on April 1 and 5, respectively. To support the “Simcoe for SARA” effort, head down to Högwaller Brewing on April 11 or Selvedge Brewing on April 20 to sip the unique brews.

Change in counsel

As of April 15, the City of Charlottesville will temporarily be represented by Richmond law firm Sands Anderson while City Attorney Jacob Stroman is on leave. The firm is set to serve as acting City Attorney of Charlottesville for 60 days. In a press release announcing the interim counsel, the city said “all active litigation is being managed to ensure the City does not fall behind,” including the lawsuit aiming to stop the new zoning ordinance.

Money talks

Grows on trees

PAGE 11

Gov. Glenn Youngkin announced on April 8 that he would not veto the entire state budget created by the legislature, instead putting forward a swath of broadreaching amendments.

The governor’s “common ground budget” has some key differences from the version passed by the state legislature earlier this year: It cuts all tax increases from the bill, but also includes none of the tax decreases he championed in his December budget proposal.

“I believe strongly that Virginia could be reforming and reducing the tax burdens on Virginians today,” said Youngkin at a press conference announcing the 233 budget amendments. “We have to make a decision together. And I will propose today that that decision together is that we do not fight over tax decreases, but we also recognize it’s not time, nor will it ever be, for tax increases that will interrupt this economic model that is working so well.”

To market

Charlottesville City Market kicked off its 51st season on April 6, boasting over 80 vendors on opening day at its Water Street location.

The market—which runs from April to November—is open every Saturday from 9am to 1pm. Shoppers can check out a range of fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and more from both returning and

One notable change to the budget is an amendment that would remove language requiring Virginia to reenter the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative. Prior to Youngkin pulling Virginia from RGGI in 2023, the program brought in millions of dollars in funding for local governments, but also came with slight increases to resident’s electricity bills.

During his presentation on the budget rewrite, Youngkin described RGGI as a “tax,” a characterization he has previously made that is disputed by proponents of the initiative.

State legislators will return to the capitol to consider the budget changes alongside other amendments and vetoes on April 17. Among those returning is Charlottesville representative Creigh Deeds, who serves on the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee. In response to a request for comment from C-VILLE, Deeds said, “[the Governor’s] amendments will receive due consideration.”

new vendors, including Khadijah’s Kitchen, Arepas on Wheels, Pit & Pastry, Petite Buzz Farm, Qut Lil Garden, and more.

This year marks the first full season of the city’s partnership with Virginia Fresh Match, which aims to double SNAP purchases at farmers markets by matching eligible purchases. Shoppers using SNAP dollars can visit the city

management tent at the market for a match of up to $50 per visit.

Downtown Saturday morning shoppers can find even more vendors a few blocks away at the Market at Ix, which is open from 8am to noon during its spring season.

For more information about other area farmers’ markets, visit charlottesville. gov/619/Charlottesville-Farmers-Markets.

April 6-14

10am-7pm each day

At last, it’s time to relax in a carefree home designed for your comfort. Featuring main-level living, flex spaces, and timeless features for an easier today and tomorrow, our floor plans are ideal for right-sizing.

Life is like a song when you choose Spring Creek in Charlottesville! Low Maintenance Villa Homes From the Mid $400’s

Priced at $483,780 Ask us how you can save $7,000 today!* Featured Move-In Ready Home

Meet the beetles

Larry the beetle works to protect Shenandoah’s hemlock trees

By Matt Dhillon

On a warm day early in spring, a group of volunteers led by the National Park Service is surveying Sugar Hollow Reservoir, hoping to find a new resident living on hemlocks in the forest. They hold broad, white sheets under a tree and knock the needles with a long stick. What they’re looking for is so tiny that they need to use magnifying glasses to identify it.

Laricobius osakensis is a dark brown beetle between 2 and 3 millimeters long. It may be small, but its impact on the forest could prove to be quite large, particularly for the area’s towering hemlock trees. The beetle preys exclusively on hemlock woolly adelgid, an aphidlike insect that has been ravaging hemlock trees up and down the East Coast. The hemlock woolly adelgid has no natural predators in the area. So, in an effort to control the pest’s population, biologists with Shenandoah National Park released 500 Laricobius beetles at Sugar Hollow Reservoir in 2017.

“We call them Larry beetles for short,” says Rolf Gubler, a biologist with the park service. “As long as there’s hemlock infested with HWA, those little Larry beetles will disperse and find hemlock that’s infested. It has to be infested so they have a food source.”

Larry has been introduced to several sites in the park after being studied, and eventually reared, at Virginia Tech.

“We have over 13 different release sites throughout the park,” Gubler says. “We’ve released over 6,000 beetles since 2015, working closely with Virginia Tech and their en-

tially found in an ornamental garden in Richmond in 1951. Shenandoah was the first park to encounter an infestation in 1988. A few years later, the park’s hemlock trees were rapidly declining and eventually dying.

“During that time, we lost a number of hemlocks,” Gubler says. “Hemlocks are typically found along streams, in riparian areas, or on northeast facing slopes, moister slopes, so they’re not that common. They were less than 1 percent of the cover type. But we saw this precipitous decline and mortality. By 2002, 2003, the park had lost anywhere between 90 to 95 percent of its hemlocks.”

Gubler says the decline looks like a gradual withering in the crown of the tree over the course of several years. If you stood under the branches looking up, over time you would see more and more light as the leaves turn yellow and fall.

The insect attaches to the base of the leaf

“We’ve released over 6,000 beetles since 2015, working closely with Virginia Tech and their entomology department.”

ROLF GUBLER, BIOLOGIST, NATIONAL PARK SERVICE

“The hemlock creates this unique, cool microclimate that has a year-round canopy,” Gubler says. It creates cool, moist conditions that are important to the preservation of a number of different species.”

That includes the eastern brook trout, the black-throated green warbler, the red squirrel, and many others. Eastern hemlocks are considered a foundational species, meaning

Hemlocks can live for hundreds of years, which means they significantly shape the character of the forest around them, and their loss leaves a giant hole.

“We had 300- to 350-year-old hemlocks at Limberlost Trail,” Gubler says. “There were 100 old-growth trees in there, just beautiful trees that were 3-and-a-half, 4-foot wide at the base. We lost all of those due to HWA.”

The hemlock woolly adelgid is hard to control because its population can rebound quickly. In fact, extreme cold events in winter have killed up to 99 percent of the adelgid’s population in the past, but they built back up in a couple of years.

The adelgid population goes through two reproductive cycles each year. A spring generation hatches in April, matures in mid-June, and lays eggs. Those eggs hatch in early July, go dormant around August, and reactivate around the middle of October. That winter generation then lays eggs in March for the spring cycle to start again.

Larry beetles are active in the winter too and go dormant in the summer. “So, they’re really well adapted to their prey,” Salom says.

The beetles are effective in controlling the winter generation of adelgids, but since they’re dormant in the summer, that leaves a gap where the spring generation is able to rebound.

“Virginia Tech and others have always wanted to look for a complementary biocontrol to address that feeding gap,” Gubler says. Other potential predators are being studied to fill that gap, most notably the silver fly. But the park is looking to Larry as the primary biocontrol for the hemlock woolly adelgid.

Sunday, April 14, 4-6 PM

“Les Amitiés Musicales” Concert

Besançon-inspired violin and piano music by Sister City grant recipients Daniel and Shelby Sender.

Grisham Hall Auditorium, St.

Anne’s Belfield, 2132 Ivy Road

Monday, April 15, 12-2 PM

“Sister Revolutions” Podcast Launch

Launch of the history

podcast uniting Besançon and Charlottesville through the legacies of the American and French Revolutions.

Jefferson Hall (Hotel C), UVA Grounds

Tuesday, April 16, 6-7:30PM

Sister City Community Reception

Meet our delegation visitors, learn about our Sister City, and enjoy music, food, and Franco-American friendship.

Create Gallery at InBio, Silk Mills, 700 Harris St.

The Laricobius beetle is small, but its impact on protecting the area’s towering hemlock trees could be large.

Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital

Free screening mammograms

April 20 Free Screening Event

Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital is offering free screening mammograms on April 20 at the Sentara Martha Jefferson Outpatient Care Center for women who:

• Don’t have insurance or have insurance that does not cover mammograms

• Are 40 years of age or older

• Are not having any issues such skin changes or a lump

Appointments are necessary!

Working it out

UVA leaders and graduate student workers talk wage issues

By Catie Ratliff reporter@c-ville.com

The local chapter of United Campus Workers of Virginia met with University of Virginia President Jim Ryan and other leaders on April 4 to discuss issues related to graduate student wages. The meeting was prompted by the union’s attendance at the March 1 Board of Visitors meeting.

Delegations from both UCW UVA and the university sat down at 1:30pm in Madison Hall.

Prior to the meeting’s start, negotiations were already underway over the meeting agenda, according to UCW UVA.

On April 2, organizer Olivia Paschal says she sent university representatives a proposed agenda, which allotted time for introductions, a presentation from the union, questions, potential solutions, and discussion. In an email shared with C-VILLE by UCW UVA, a representative of Ryan and Provost Ian Baucom sent a resequenced agenda at 11:35am on April 4—two hours before the meeting start time—which substantially reduced the union’s presentation time and discussion time in favor of a presentation on progress made by the university. Further, the email stated that the room would be used for another event at 2:30pm, and the meeting needed to adjourn by 2:25pm.

UCW UVA responded with a compromise agenda at 12:02pm, giving time for both delegations’ presentations and discussion time.

During the meeting, attendees reviewed progress made on stipend task-force recommendations by the university, and examples of graduate student workers’ concerns with ongoing payment issues. University officials did not agree to all of the proposed solutions from UCW UVA, but did agree to hold a follow-up meeting with the union.

“We’re disappointed that administrators failed to commit to solving late payments in our meeting,” the union posted on Instagram. The group emphasized the need for raising wages and benefits for Graduate School of Arts and Sciences departmental employees, and said late payment fees should be instituted.

After the meeting, UVA Deputy Spokesperson Bethanie Glover shared meeting notes with C-VILLE, saying the newspaper had previously written about “concerns related to the timely delivery of graduate student aid.” According to Glover, GSAS has processed graduate student payment with a 99.7 percent accuracy in the last year.

“The 99.7% accuracy rate that we shared factors in all delivery errors in stipend and wage payments, including incorrect values, delivery delays, student errors such as incorrectly reported account/personal information, and more,” she wrote in an email.

But organizers with UCW UVA claim different accuracy estimates were provided by the university during the meeting. According to a quote from the meeting shared by Paschal in an email, attendees were told by a university official that “our estimation is that about 98% of students are experiencing no problems at all in GSAS. In terms of individual payments, that number is about 99.8%.”

Additionally, an organizer with the union argued that the characterization of graduate student wages as “aid” was misleading. “Some of the issues have been wage issues,” said union member Lucas Martínez. “When you run a business … you [don’t] call what you pay your workers aid.”

While UCW UVA acknowledges the progress made since issues with payments to graduate workers arose in December of 2022, members say current solutions to payment issues are not sustainable and require additional labor from the graduate student worker.

“All of the onus of this problem being solved relies on extra labor being done by the graduate worker, to let them know that they’ve been paid incorrectly,” said Martínez.

At press time, a follow-up meeting between UCW UVA and university leadership had not been scheduled.

UCW UVA member Olivia Paschal has been working on the Cut the Checks campaign since January 2023.

GO TIME. STAY ON TRACK OR GET STARTED WITH EARNING YOUR DEGREE

• SKILL UP AND LEVEL UP

• PREPARE TO TRANSFER TO A FOUR-YEAR SCHOOL

• GAIN QUALITY EDUCATION. GET THE JOB YOU WANT.

Supporting the language goals of UVA faculty and staff since 2008!

Foreign Language Courses (22 languages!)

ESL/English Language Courses (all levels)

Public Speaking Coaching

Editing Services

Translation Services

Questions?

434-245-8255

Annie Gould Gallery

A unique art gallery located in the heart of historic Gordonsville.

Moving Forward

Transition is an opportunity regardless of your place in life... and you may feel now is the time to make a move.

One exit

Working group will look at necessity of two exits in multifamily buildings

By Sean Tubbs

AAs a Seniors Real Estate Specialist, I’m here to help take the worry out of selling your home so you can focus on your future goals.

I have been a valued REALTOR® with Montague Miller & Company for 35 years and a certified SRES® with extensive training to meet the needs of 50+ age clients when selling their home, buying, relocating, or refinancing residential or investment properties.

For a consultation and a Free Market Analysis of your home contact:

109 S. Main Street, Gordonsville, VA • (540) 832-6352 anniegouldgallery SRES, CRS, SFR, Associate Broker 434.981.1421

anitadunbar1@gmail.com

500 Westfield Rd, Charlottesville, VA

ny structure erected in Virginia must conform to building codes created around a century ago to ensure safe construction methods are followed and that people inside can get out if there’s a fire. Such provisions spread across the country after the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in March 1911 in New York City that led to the deaths of 146 workers who were blocked from leaving the burning building.

Virginia updates its code every three years, and several advocates of reducing the cost to construct housing have been lobbying for deregulation of some aspects, such as mandates that multifamily buildings have two staircases and at least two ways out.

Last week, Gov. Glenn Youngkin signed legislation directing state officials to convene a group to study the possibility of allowing only one exit for apartment buildings up to six stories.

“This puts the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development in the best possible position to make positive changes in the building code to improve safety and affordability and allow the kinds of high-quality ‘missing middle’ designs common in other countries and Seattle and New York City,” says Charlottesville Planning Commission member Lyle Solla-Yates.

Both Solla-Yates and Planning Commissioner Rory Stolzenberg participated in a DHCD workgroup in the spring of 2022 to suggest reform. Neither is an architect or civil engineer.

In June of that year, Solla-Yates put forward a proposal to allow up to 20 units in a five-story building. He claimed the cost

of requiring an additional staircase added $380,000 to the cost of a building. The idea had the support of a fellow workgroup member who works for the Home Builders Association of Virginia.

However, the minutes of the meeting indicate that several people from the state building codes office were not in favor, due to safety concerns and feeling that the issue should be discussed nationally first.

The proposal was listed officially as “nonconsensus,” and the idea did not move forward in the code update that took effect in January of this year.

Solla-Yates is glad the discussion will move forward with the passage of the bill.

“No consensus, no change, unless there is clear direction from the legislative body,” he says.

Virginia did not adopt a building code until the early 1970s, which means there are examples of single-staircase buildings in Charlottesville, such as the Altamont Circle apartments in the North Downtown neighborhood. Those were built in 1929, according to city property records, and there are over 20 units.

The stakeholder group is required to deliver their report to the General Assembly by the end of the year.

At least one stakeholder is prepared to make sure the deregulation doesn’t occur.

“The Virginia Fire Prevention Association has grave concern of the consequences of considering a six-story dormitory, apartment, hotel, motel, etc. [with] a single means of egress,” says organization president Gerry Maiatico. “This should not even be considered, let alone sent to a committee for discussion.”

“No consensus, no change, unless there is clear direction from the legislative body.”

The Altamont Circle apartments, which were built in 1929, have only a single staircase.

ALBEMARLE COUNTY

EDGEMONT

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, 15 miles south of Charlottesville, is this rare 572-acre historic estate whose design is reputed to be the only remaining private residence attributed to Thomas Jefferson. $15,000,000 Court Nexsen, 646.660.0700 www.HistoricEdgemont.com

SWANNONOA COUNTRY CLUB

Stunning golf course atop the Blue Ridge Mtns. in Afton, Va. 20 minutes west of Charlottesville, UVA and at the gateway to the Shenandoah Valley via I-64 or Rt 250. Explore the many alternative uses for the 236 acres with sweeping views in all directions.

MLS#649416 $3,500,000 Tim Michel, 434.960.1124

FOR WATERS

133.77-acre land tract in scenic Madison County, near Graves Mountain Lodge, with Rose & Robinson trout rivers on property. Adjacent to Shenandoah National Forest, Camp Hoover, with Old Rag views. Includes cottage, barns and fenced. MLS#650696 $2,200,000 Jim Faulconer, 434.981.0076

NEWLISTING NEWPRICE NEWPRICE

FARMINGTON

Charming Farmington Country Club residence with panoramic Blue Ridge Mountain views is situated on five lovely, landscaped acres. Circa 1930 with tasteful additions, this 5-bedroom stone house is enhanced by separate guesthouse, pool, office, koi pond & garage. MLS#650584 $6,650,000 Tim Michel, 434.960.1124

MILL HOUSE

Former house of noted local architect Floyd E. Johnson, on the banks of Totier Creek. Thoughtfully renovated and expanded, 5-BR, 3 full and 2 half BA. Guest house, 2-bay garage, pool, equipment shed plus 130 acres of open & wooded land. MLS#639196 $2,245,000 Court Nexsen, 646.660.0700

HIGH FIELDS

Scenic 42-acre farm just 10 miles from Charlottesville. It features pastures, woodlands, a serene creek, antique farmhouse, updated kitchen, three bathrooms, four bedrooms, and panoramic Blue Ridge Mountain vistas, with a substantial barn. MLS#651245 $1,695,000 Jim Faulconer, 434.981.0076

MACLIN BUILDING CONDO

North of Charlottesville’s Downtown Mall, 2BR/ 2BA condo offers modern amenities: 1,400 sq.ft., Brazilian cherry hardwood, gas FP, gourmet kitchen, glass window DR, urban, Blue Ridge views, and parkingt. MLS#651029 $777,000 Jim Faulconer, 434.981.007 or Will Faulconer, 434.987.9455

JAMES RIVER ROAD

Enjoy expansive pastoral views with the mountains in the background from this spacious 3-BR residence with wrap around porch on 5.44 acres. The tranquil atmosphere lends itself to full time living or a weekend retreat. Great high speed Internet. MLS#651338 $539,000 C. Dammann, 434.981.1250

HIGHER GROUND

27 acre estate, mountaintop retreat with 11,400 sf., 8-BR, 6.5-BA residence with many outside terraces, decks and unsurpassed panoramic mountain views! 10 miles to famed Omni Homestead Resort, 2 miles to the airport. www.highergroundva.org Jim Faulconer, 434.981.0076 or Will Faulconer, 434.987.9455

MEADOW FARM

436+ acre parcel of land in Southern Albemarle! 4 division rights; complete privacy; lush, gently rolling terrain; long road frontage; stream; 3-acre lake; 125-135 acres of open land; mature hardwood forests. Under conservation easement. MLS#651411

$2,985,000 Charlotte Dammann, 433.981.1250

FREE UNION PARCEL

42 acre tract on Wesley Chapel Road with the right to be divided into two 21 acre parcels. Big views with clearing towards the Blue Ridge. Stream frontage on Burruss Branch. Old logging road recently cleared for easy access. MLS#647055 $799,000 Tim Michel, 434.960.1124

KESWICK ESTATE

Discover Keswick Estate, a gated community near Keswick Hall, offering a 2.10± acre building site harmonizing country life and resort living in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Create your dream home close to golf, dining, tennis, and more. MLS#650785 $515,000 Court Nexsen, 646.660.0700

1869 Rhett Ct | Charlottesville

Beautiful one owner home in desirable and convenient Mosby Mountain! Custom build by Gaffney Homes, this property is on a cozy CUL-DE-SAC with lovely rear privacy. Fabulous floor plan offers roomy main level living with 2 story ceilings. Close to UVA.

$945,000 | montaguemillercom/650361

Trish Owens | 434.825.5393

Stunning one owner home nestled in the coveted Ivy neighborhood of Blue Springs Farm, just 15 minutes to UVA & downtown Charlottesville. An elegant combination in design of old Virginia charm and sprinkled with French flair. Situated on a gentle knoll with oversized windows and doors, you can enjoy the sweeping pastoral and mountain views.

This solidly built home offers quality construction with copper roof, gutters, downspouts and top of the line mill work, with 4 zone Geothermal heat pumps,whole house generator and deluxe water treatment system. Two private courtyards with babbling fountains can be accessed from three different living spaces. Exceptionally high ceilings throughout, frame this home. A perfect property for someone desiring a luxury home with majority of finished space on main level with no steps

1404 Meadowbrook Rd | Charlottesville

This beautifully remodeled Mid-century Ranch home is a must see in the CITY OF CHARLOTTESVILLE. Located close to UVA, within a 5-minute walk to BODO’S, Meadow Creek Gardens Trail & RTF Trail. 4 bedrooms, 3 baths.

$995,000 | montaguemiller.com/650936

Gaffney Saadut Team | 434.760.2160

0 Cresent Farm Ln | Shipman

$480,000 | CarterMontague.com/639070

Carter Montague | 434.962.3419

$345,000 | CarterMontague.com/646225

Carter Montague | 434.962.3419

Considering a Career in Real Estate? We can help...

Miller Real Estate Academy offers a flexible hybrid online & in-class personalized education program to fit your schedule and your way to learn.

Sign up for Principles of Real Estate .

s’ainigriVlart oundunitsand trainers

A look atcen

BY ANDREW HOLLINS

n a recent cool morning in Gordonsville, a cadre of a half-dozen cops in street clothes assembled next to the local fire department. Their commanding officer for the day, Lt. Patrick Sheridan of the Louisa County Sher iff’s Office, was ready to get started.

“8:25!” Sheridan shouted. It was the time that the trail was laid; crucial information for anyone using a man-trailing animal, and served as the green flag in this partic ular race.

The first one to take him up on the chal lenge was Charlottesville Police Depart ment’s Darius Nash and his 18-month-old bloodhound, Blue. Nash walked to his cruiser, cracked the back door, and out shot an energetic hound who was clearly in need of two things: affection and a bathroom, in that order.

After some slobbery kisses and a quick stop in a grassy patch next to the fire de partment, it was time for Blue’s favorite game: hide and seek.

Gordonsville was the site of Group A’s first day of training in the 12th annual Lou isa County Bloodhound Training Seminar. The group was led by Sheridan, who has owned, trained, and employed bloodhounds in his work for over 20 years. In that time, he has traveled across the country and to Europe, both as teacher and student, and has been the driving force behind Louisa’s annual Bloodhound Training Seminar, where dozens of law enforcement organiza tions from throughout the state and the country send their handlers to learn from some of the best canine officers and searchand-rescue personnel in the country. The event has become so popular that there’s a substantial waiting list to attend.

“I got Annie, my first dog, in 1997,” Sher idan says. “Then there was Maggie, then Rizzo, and now Ally, so I’ve had four dogs in my career.”

He was brief in mentioning the name of K9 Maggie. Her’s is a story he doesn’t tell very often, but it’s one that, for many people in this area, he doesn’t have to: In December of 2011, Maggie was attacked by another dog while on a call for service. Initially, the attack appeared survivable, but a bacteria from the other dog’s saliva got into her bloodstream and Maggie passed away as a result. Her image can be found everywhere in Sheridan’s life, from his social media pag es to the walls of his home.

Sheridan’s successes have been as wellknown as his tragedies. He has been in the news often, both in this area and nationwide, and has set important case law in Virginia. Along with former Louisa County Sheriff’s Office handler Stuart “Buck” Garner, and the help of their bloodhounds, Sheridan was instrumental in catching and convicting

HEADLINE

STEPHEN BARLING

Adam Pelletier in the rape and murder of Aimee Marie Meadows. Their work, and subsequent testimony, set the precedent that allowed bloodhound identification to be used as expert testimony in Virginia courts.

Garner was again in the news in 2016, when he testified in the case of Hannah Graham— his dog was able to track the murdered University of Virginia student’s scent to the car and apartment of Jesse Matthew, more than 24 hours after she’d gone missing. Matthew was eventually convicted of her murder.

In addition to Sheridan’s duties as bloodhound handler for the department, he also manages half of the patrol division, all of the school resource officers, and event security for school events throughout the county. He’s run hundreds of calls in central Virginia as a K9 handler, and found “dozens” of people, both criminals on the lam and civilians, lost or injured in the endless woods of the Piedmont.

Officer Nash and Blue tracked the “runner” about 300 yards west on Baker Street toward Main Street in Gordonsville. Blue was a frenetic bundle of affection and slobber three minutes ago, but after Nash put on his harness and gave the order, Blue became a different dog. He was all business now.

Blue got sidetracked, and headed to a local resident’s chicken coup. “Nope,” Nash said. Theirs was a balance of communication and natural ability. Blue has the superpower, a million more olfactory receptors than a human, but he needs information and feedback in order to use it.

“When you see that head go down and that tail start wagging,” Sheridan says, “that’s when you should be ready.”

Next to Sheridan was Deputy Christian Amos of the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, who will get his first dog in the coming months. He was along the trail with Nash, Blue, and the rest of the group as an observer.

“That means you’re close?” Amos asks. Sheridan nods.

Blue’s head was down now, and his tail was wagging. He rounded the corner, and looked at the porch of a local dentist’s office. He scanned the area with his nose, and darted into the apparently empty bushes. Buried inside is Terry Davis, president of the Virginia Bloodhound Search and Rescue Association. Also known as “the runner.” Immediately, Blue reverted back into the chaotic, lovable slobber machine he’d been roughly 15 minutes before. His reward: Vienna sausages and more slobbery kisses.

corded. A famous story in bloodhound lore is that of the unnamed record-breaking dog in Oregon in 1954. In a newspaper article, it mentions a “local bloodhound” finding the trail of a missing family over 330 hours after they’d gone missing. Unfortunately, the family had died of exposure in the Oregon wilderness.

“They call them bloodhounds for a reason,” says Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Deputy John Lavinder, another handler and trainer from Virginia Bloodhound Search and Rescue Association. “They can use your blood, sweat, urine, or any other bodily fluid as a scent article to track you.”

home: the custom, back-seat doghouse of Nash’s cruiser, complete with its own dog bowls built into the floorboards.

The next team to take on the hunt is Officer Emma Orr, from Rock Hill, South Carolina, and her 7-year-old black and tan bloodhound, Lucy. Sheridan has known Lucy since she was a puppy, and she runs right up to him the minute she gets out of her cruiser.

Humans have been using hounds to hunt since the Middle Ages. It’s believed they’re the modern descendants of the extinct Norman Hound breed. In France, they’re called “le chien de Saint-Hubert” or St. Hubert’s Hounds. In the U.K., they’re known as “sleuth hounds,” and have been employed, along with beagles and other types of hounds, in their traditional fox hunts. Tradition also holds that they were used to track the famous Scottish rebels William Wallace and Robert the Bruce during their flight from English capture in the late-13th and early-14th centuries.

Lavinder also clears up the famous Hollywood myth about running in bodies of water to get bloodhounds off your trail.

“Actually, that water takes those cells off your skin and spreads them out over a larger area, meaning the dog will be able to tell where you went and hold on to that scent easier,” he says. “You’ll just go to jail wet.”

HED HED

Their ability to track a scent hours, even days, after the trail has been set, is well re-

As Nash returns from his successful hunt, the other members of Group A are standing in a circle, making small talk. The other bloodhounds bark their congratulatory remarks at Blue, as he darts toward his second

Despite being from out-of-state, the handlers and trainers at the training seminar seem like they’ve known each other all their lives. Most of them have trained together before. They’ve got nicknames for one another, know each other’s dog’s names, and tease each other incessantly. Orr’s nickname is “Teeter,” which the group refuses to explain. No more evident is this camaraderie than in the way Lucy reacts to Sheridan when she sees him, jumping up for a full, standing hug, and a big slobbery kiss.

“Oh, I love this dog,” Sheridan says, grinning, “I could put people in jail with this dog.”

“I have,” Orr says, sharing his smile.

As the harness comes out, and the scent article is chosen, Sheridan again shouts the time the trail was laid, “8:25!”

Orr looks down at her partner, and gives Lucy the words she’s been waiting for: “Get to work.”

STEPHEN BARLING

Patrick Sheridan, pictured here with Ally, is a K9 officer and patrol lieutenant for the Louisa County Sheriff’s Office. As a handler and trainer for the office’s bloodhounds, he also shares his knowledge and expertise with agencies across the nation and in Europe.

2024 Best of C-VILLE nominations begin April 15!

This year's ballot contains 190 categories, which means nearly 200 opportunities to recognize the best people, places, and things in our city, from podcast to pediatrician.

Nominate your favorite businesses on our digital ballot:

vote.c-ville.com

Nominations end Wednesday, May 15, and Voting begins Saturday June 1. Not registered? Go to vote.c-ville.com/register

SCHEDULE AND MOBILE APP ARE LIVE !

COMMUNITY PARTNER PROGRAM

WED. APRIL 17—SUN. APRIL 21 | Multiple Venues

Charlottesville is brimming with incredible organizations that are the heart and soul of this community! The Tom Tom Festival is a moment in time when we can come together and get introduced to all the work happening here. Our Community Partners will take you into public parks, local jails, galleries, theaters, nature preserves and more to tell the story of Charlottesville as only they can.

TECH MIXER: A CVILLE STARTUP SOIREE!

April 17 | 6PM | The Bradbury

Come out for a cocktail and meet the movers and shakers in Charlottesville’s tech scene! This annual celebration will especially toast the Startups, Founders, Founding Teams, and Investors of emerging powerhouses in the region.

CROWDFUNDED PITCH NIGHT

April 17 | 7PM | CODE Building

Eleven local entrepreneurs pitch to a live audience willing to pledge funds to their favorite contestant. It’s a three minute chance to share their vision and inspire the crowd to action!

3 NIGHTS OF DANCE PARTIES

April 18—20 | 9 PM —1AM | Common House & The Bradbury

Grab a wireless headset and get down at the Silent Disco on Thursday; feel the global rhythm and hip hop vibes at PARADISE on Friday, and groove to latin soul at CARNIVALE on Saturday.

FILM SCREENING - A BRIDGE TO LIFE DOCUMENTARY

April 18 | 7 PM —9:30PM | The Paramount Theater

From celebrated local director Chris Farina comes a documentary about the power of overcoming hardship, building community, and remaining resilient. Ticket sales benefit the Bridge Ministry, an organization in Buckingham County that works to change and save the lives of men dealing with life-threatening addiction issues. Part of a full-day of re-entry programs: tomtomfoundation.org/reentry-programs

DOWNTOWN MALL BLOCK PARTY

FRI April 19 | 5PM—10PM

SAT April 20 | 12PM—10PM

This year the 3rd annual Block Party stretches the entire Downtown Mall, from the Omni Hotel to the Ting Pavilion! Multiple music stages -- including a super-sized Fridays After Five! -- family programs, performers and much more will transform the mall for two days of celebration!

PORCHELLA

April 21 | 5 PM —9PM | Belmont Porches

Head out with friends to the charming Belmont neighborhood where a series of free acoustic front porch concerts and jam sessions close out the festival with a celebration of community and local musicianship.

tomtomfoundation.org/tickets

APRIL 17—20 | TICKETS ON SALE NOW

During the Tom Tom Festival, our TOGETHER Conference convenes engaged citizen leaders from all sectors and neighborhoods to talk about the future of the community. Four immersive tracks tackle cross-sector questions through panels, keynotes, workshops, facilitated conversations, meditations, and embodiment experiences. Whether you’re coming to elevate consciousness, learn about the latest technologies, or help build a more just Charlottesville, prepare to deepen your connection to Self and your community.

TECHNOLOGY FOR GOOD

WED. 4/17

Increasing opportunity through technology and entrepreneurship.

TOPICS

Future of AI, Biotech, Climate & Sustainability, Funding, Innovation Showcases

ENTREPRENEURSHIP FOR ALL

THUR. 4/18

Exploring how businesses start, grow, and flourish.

TOPICS

SOCIETY & JUSTICE

FRI. 4/19

Creating a welcoming and equitable community.

Angel Investing, 1st Gen. Entrepreneurs, Microfinance, Clean Energy, Ecosystem Builders TOPICS

CONSCIOUS CITY

SAT. 4/20

Fostering healthy, mindful, and connected communities.

Criminal Justice Reform, Public Education, Future of DEI, Bipartisan Governance TOPICS

Consciousness, Community Healing, Psychedelics, Meditation, Veterans Healing

A brighter tomorrow is only possible when everyone gets a seat at the table. All Conference badges have a Pay-What-You-Can Scholarship Option. This option is available for attendees in need of financial assistance to attend the conference.

OVER 165 SESSIONS and PERFORMANCES

Navigating the Tom Tom Festival is easy with our custom app. With the purchase of any ticket, including a “Free Community Ticket”, you can logon, build your custom schedule, share with friends, and meet other attendees.

Saturday, April 20 7:30pm

Old Cabell Hall

Sunday, April 21 3:30pm

Martin Luther King, Jr. Performing Arts Center

BERNSTEIN Overture to West Side Story

D’EARTH Concerto for Quintet and Orchestra with the Free Bridge Quintet

MITCHELL Flight for Freedom with Nicole Mitchell, Creative Flute

ARMSTRONG “Creation”, “Birth”, “Embryo” with JoVia Armstrong, Percussion

BURTNER Threnody

RAVEL Boléro

Underwritten in part by Pamela and William Calary

Tickets: UVA Arts Box Office artsboxoffice.virginia.edu | 434.924.3376 Special

Benjamin Rous, Music Director Kate Tamarkin, Music Director Laureate

CULTURE

FRIDAY 4/12

SWEET SPRING TRADITION

Spring brings beauty, warmth, good vibes, and Fridays After Five. The 2024 season opener, soulful R&B band Joslyn & The Sweet Compression, is a perfect pairing for a blanket on the lawn, a happy-hour drink, and a bit of early evening ass-shaking to the tunes on the group’s new record, Bona Fide, a mix of smoldering neo-funk with elements of ’70s and ’80s rhythm and blues. Free, 5pm. Ting Pavilion, 700 E. Market St., Downtown Mall. tingpavilion.com

98 REASONS TO LEAVE THE HOUSE

SUNDAY 4/14

TIPTOE THRILLS

Since 1974, Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo has been preening and poking fun at an uptight world with “razor-sharp wit and breathtaking pointe work.” The Trocks, as the all-male comic ballet company is known, celebrate their 50th anniversary with a worldwide tour that confirms the troupe’s long-running global sensation status. $24.7544.75, 7:30. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net

FRIDAY 4/12

MOUNTAIN MINDFUL

A local by way of Waynesboro, Scott Miller pays tribute to his roots with his latest album, Ladies Auxiliary. The founder of energetic alt-country rock band The V-Roys slows to singersongwriter mode on the record, and employs a band of women in songs that capture the music and characters of his native Appalachia. $25, 7:30. The Front Porch, 221 E. Water St. frontporchcville.org

CULTURE THIS WEEK

Wednesday 4/10 music

Berto and Matt. An evening of Latin guitar. Free, 7pm. The Bebedero, 201 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thebebedero.com

Jim and Juice. Murder ballads, country classics, and good times with Jim Waive and Jen Fleisher. Free, 7pm. Blue Moon Diner, 606 W. Main St. bluemoondiner.net

Karaoke. Show off your vocal talents with host Jennifer DeVille. Free, 10pm. Rapture, 303 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. rapture restaurant.com

Open mic night. Step up to the mic with host Nicole Giordano. Free, 9pm. Holly’s Diner, 1221 E. Market St. classes

Paint + Sip. Enjoy pints while painting flowers. $35, 6pm. Starr Hill Brewery Tap Room, 5391 Three Notched Rd., Crozet. starrhill.com etc.

Bingo. Play for fun prizes. Free, 6pm. Firefly, 1304 E. Market St. fireflycville.com

classes

Sewing Series: Intro to Patterns. Learn to sew from a pattern. $150, 12:30pm. The Scrappy Elephant, 1745 Allied St., scrappy elephant.com stage

FIREFLIES A story of endurance and empowerment with language that is rich, rhythmic, and riveting. $23, 7:30pm. Live Arts, 123 E. Water St. livearts.org

National Theatre Live in HD: Dear England Joseph Fiennes plays Gareth Southgate in a gripping examination of nation and sport. $12-16, 7pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St. theparamount.net

One Mic Stand. A spoken-word open-mic night with comedy promoter and filmmaker Ty Cooper. Free, 7pm. Piedmont Virginia Community College, V. Earl Dickinson Building, 501 College Dr. pvcc.edu

words

THE IX ART PARK FOUNDATION IS A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION DEDICATED TO INSPIRING CREATIVITY AND PROVIDING SAFE SPACES FOR IMAGINATION TO THRIVE.

Casino Fatale Murder Mystery. A game night of diabolical characters, devious plots, and delicious creations. $60, 7pm. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, 5th Street Station. drafthouse.com

Hundreds of Beavers A winter wonderland becomes a perilous place for a man confronted by devious beavers. $10, 8pm. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, 5th Street Station. drafthouse.com

Squaring the Circle: The Story of Hipgnosis

A free documentary screening about the designers responsible for some of the most recognizable album covers of all time. Free, 7:15pm. Vault Virgina, 300 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. vaultvirginia.com

SuperFly Run Club. Run, sip, and win prizes. Free, 6pm. SuperFly Brewing Co., 943 Preston Ave. superflybrewing.com

Matthew Olzmann poetry reading. Reading by the author of Constellation Route as well as Mezzanines and Contradictions in the Design. Free, 5pm. Newcomb Hall Commonwealth Room, 180 McCormick Rd. virginia.edu

etc.

Bent Theatre Comedy Night. Come for the cider, stay for the laughs. Free, 7pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potterscraftcider.com

Dart night. Play darts and get discount pints. Free, 6pm. Decipher Brewing, 1740 Broadway St. decipherbrewingco.com

Urbanized Who is allowed to shape our cities, and how do they do it? This documentary frames a global discussion on the future of cities. Free, 7:30pm. Vault Virgina, 300 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. vaultvirginia.com

area artists of all disciplines

The Paramount Theater of Charlottesville invites to submit proposals to activate a local remnant of the South’s segregation laws, The Paramount’s Third Street Box Office.

Three artists will receive an honorarium of

$2,500 each

The Elephant 6 Recording Company A documentary about the indie-rock collective that launched Neutral Milk Hotel, The Olivia Tremor Control, The Apples in Stereo, and more. $20, 7pm. Violet Crown Charlottesville, 200 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. charllottesville.violetcrown.com

Thursday 4/11

music

BAILEN. Performing songs that navigate the space between the heart’s expectation and the head’s sober reality. $20-23, 8pm. The Southern Café and Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com

Berto and Vincent. A night of wild gypsy rumba and Latin guitar. Free, 7pm. The Bebedero, 225 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thebebedero.com

Dogwood Brothers. A set of country classics and Americana originals. Free, 8pm. Durty Nelly’s, 2200 Jefferson Park Ave. durtynellyscville.com

Films On Song. Punk-influenced rock with Parsley and In Conjunction. Free, 7pm. SuperFly Brewing Co., 943 Preston Ave. superflybrewing.com

Jesse’s House. Jesse Fiske and his house band play rock and rockabilly originals. Free, 6pm. Blue Moon Diner, 606 W. Main St. bluemoondiner.net

Music bingo. A high-energy combo of music trivia and bingo. Free, 6pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwoodfarmandwinery.com

Tom’s Elton Tribute. An Elton John tribute featuring all the hits. $15-20, 7pm. Pro Re Nata, 6135 Rockfish Gap Tpke. prnbrewery.com

Wildflower Hike. Learn about early spring flowers, and their habitats. Free, 6:30pm. Ivy Creek Natural Area and Historic River View Farm, 1780 Earlysville Rd. ivycreek foundation.org

Friday 4/12 music

An Evening with Scott Miller. Co-founder of twangpop outfit The V-Roys, Staunton native Miller, is a gifted and eclectic solo artist. $25-30, 8pm. The Front Porch, 221 E. Water St. frontporchcville.com

Fridays After Five: Joslyn & The Sweet Compression. Inspiring, stirring soulfunk sound. Free, 5:30pm. Ting Pavilion, 700 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. tingpavilion.com

Hungry Hard Luck Heroes. Dave McKenney and Gary Green, joined by Patrick Porter on guitar, bring the Jimmy Buffett vibes. Free, 6pm. Glass House Winery, 5898 Free Union Rd., Free Union. glass housewinery.com

Jeffrey Lewis and The Voltage. Indie-rock folk-punk musician and comic book artist returns from the Lower East Side of New York City. With Grasping Straws and Work Wear. Free, 8pm. SuperFly Brewing Co., 943 Preston Ave. superflybrewing.com

Joe Ayers. An evening of Ragtime from the early 20th century. Free, 8pm. The Stage at WTJU, 2244 Ivy Rd. wtju.net

John Kelly. Singer-songwriter plays covers and originals. Free, 5pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwoodfarmandwinery.com

Josh Mayo and Alex Bragg. Original tunes from a local acoustic duo and friends. Free, 6pm. Högwaller Brewing, 1518 E High St. hogwallerbrewing.com

Julia Wolf. Indie pop singer-songwriter who grew a huge fanbase out of her bedroom in Queens, New York. $16-18, 8pm. The Southern Café and Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com

Scuffletown. Sunset Soirée featuring music from John Whitlow on harmonica, accordion, and vocals, Marc Carraway on guitar and vocals. Free, 6pm. Chisholm Vineyards at Adventure Farm, 1135 Clan Chisholm Ln., Earlysville. chisholmvineyards.com

The Vegabonds. A performance filled with powerhouse guitar riffs and impactful songwriting. $18-20, 8pm. The Jefferson Theater, 110 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. jeffersontheater.com

UVA Baroque Orchestra Concert. A spring concert directed by David Sariti, faculty violinist and director of performance. $10, 8pm. Old Cabell Hall, music.virginia.edu

Wavelength. Blues, vintage rock, and musical mayhem combine for a rockin’ evening. Free, 8pm. Dürty Nelly’s, 2200 Jefferson Park Ave. durtynellyscville.com

stage

FIREFLIES. See listing for Thursday, April 11. $23-27, 8pm. Live Arts, 123 E. Water St. livearts.org

etc.

Dawn of the Dead Ravenous zombies turn a suburban shopping center into a shopping “maul” in George Romero’s satiric splatter fest. $10, 9:30pm. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, 5th Street Station. drafthouse.com/ charlottesville

Puzzle Crawl. Crack codes, unravel riddles, and piece together clues while sipping drinks. $15, all day. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. dairymarketcville.com

The Big Lebowski The quirky Coen brothers comedy-thriller about bowling, avantgarde art, nihilistic Austrians, and a guy named The Dude. $9, 8pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net

Saturday 4/13 music

Berto Sales. Latin guitar music that includes the use of a loop station. Free, 11am. Tavern & Grocery, 333 W. Main St. tavernand grocery.com

Chamber Ensembles Recital. Many talented young musicians come together to perform numerous works that they have perfected over the course of the semester. Free, 3:30pm. Old Cabell Hall. music.virginia.edu

Chatham County Line. North Carolina band plays a blend of bluegrass, folk, country, and rock. $16-20, 8pm. The Southern Café and Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com

F.O.G. (Four Old Guys). Dance music from seasoned musicians. Free, 5pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. east woodfarmandwinery.com

John Kelly. Enjoy covers and originals with local singer-songwriter. Free, 2pm. DuCard Vineyards, 40 Gibson Hollow Ln., Etlan. ducardvineyards.com

Local Vocals. An eclectic acoustic trio featuring the vocal stylings of Cindy Perfater. Free, 5pm. Glass House Winery, 5898 Free Union Rd., Free Union. glasshousewinery.com

Mojo Pie. This recipe features the talented combination of Susan Munson and Frank Bechter. Free, 2:30pm. Albemarle CiderWorks, 2545 Rural Ridge Ln., North Garden. albemarleciderworks.com

Murder farm

Earl Swift digs into another despicable chapter

By Lisa Provence arts@c-ville.com

One of the biggest stories that shocked America 100 years ago— about a farm in Georgia where Black people were essentially enslaved and at least 11 men were murdered—is pretty much forgotten today.

That will change with Earl Swift’s eighth book, Hell Put to Shame: The 1921 Murder Farm Massacre and the Horror of America’s Second Slavery, which was published April 2.

Swift was scanning microfilm in the Old Dominion University library, looking for a brief mention of the 1921 passage of the Federal Aid Highway Act—”which is now recognized as the most important piece of highway legislation in American history,” he says—for his book The Big Roads, when he ran across this front-page headline in the March 27, 1921, New York Times: “Find Nine Bodies in Georgia Peonage Murder Inquiry.”

“I had never seen the word ‘peonage’ in print before,” he says. “I knew nothing about this story.”

That was in 2007 and he couldn’t forget it. Over the next 17 years, Swift did research when he could to tell the story of John S. Williams, who owned a cotton farm in remote southeastern Georgia. Williams and his sons would find Black men who’d been arrested for crimes such as loitering, pay their $5 fine, and force them to work to pay off their debts. The men were whipped, hunted down if they fled, and ultimately murdered when federal agents got wind of the operation.

While Jim Crow thrived in the 1920s, America was appalled that more than 50 years after the Civil War, African Americans were still in bondage. Williams wasn’t the only one subscribing to peonage at the time, but the cruelty of the murders of men who could testify against him stood out.

A young boy playing at Allen’s Bridge along the Yellow River made a grisly discovery on a Sunday morning in the spring of 1921: Two drowned men were bound together with wire and chain, and weighed down with a 100-pound sack of rocks. Another turned up in a nearby river, then another and another.

Swift recreates the criminal trials that gripped America. Through court transcripts, archival research, and many trips to Georgia, he paints a vivid portrait of the country at that time, and how both the notorious murderers and the heroes of the case are mostly forgotten today.

There’s James Weldon Johnson, who led the NAACP in pursuing the case and seeking anti-peonage and anti-lynching legislation, while at the same time playing a key role in the Harlem Renaissance. “James Weldon Johnson ought to be a household name,” says Swift.

There’s Walter White, not the character from “Breaking Bad,” but a man who iden-

JOHN ROBINSON

“I had never seen the word ‘peonage’ in print before. I knew nothing about this story.”

EARL SWIFT

tified as Black, but could easily pass as white—and did, traveling to the many sites of racial massacres to report for the NAACP, which he later led. “He had ice water in his veins to go to Tulsa,” says Swift.

And there’s former Georgia governor Hugh Dorsey, whose obituary noted that he had been a prosecutor in the notorious 1913 trial of Leo Frank, who was lynched by a mob outside Marietta. Dorsey seemed to try to redeem himself as governor, quietly supporting the prosecution of Williams. When the NAACP wrote him, says Swift, “Against all custom of the day, he answered.”

Even knowing the basics of the horrific case, there were still aspects that shocked Swift.

“The pervasive and casual use of the N-word by all walks of society, no matter where they were,” he says. “That was a hell of a shock.”

Lynching was part of the landscape of the early 20th century, targeting not just Black individuals, but communities as well. Swift was appalled at “the brazenness of the violence against Black people, at times done with seeming impunity, as if it were a God-given right.”

But the most shocking? “That anybody could be as wantonly cruel as John S. Williams,” says Swift. He believes Williams likely could have gotten away with the murders if he’d killed and buried the men on his land. “These were guys who wouldn’t be missed,” he says.

Instead, “with unnecessary depravity,” Williams told the men he was sending them home—“the nastiest touch of all,” says Swift— drove them to nearby rivers, where he tied them up and threw them into the water.

Today, there’s no trace of the horrors that took place in Jasper and Newton counties. The Williams farm has disappeared into the overgrown landscape, except for a few rose bushes that stood in front of the house. Even the paupers’ graveyard, where the victims were buried, can no longer be found on Jasper County government land.

The word “peonage” also has pretty much disappeared, but it’s still around. “Not all human trafficking is peonage,” says Swift, “but all peonage is a form of human trafficking. It changed form quite a bit and now targets a different kind of victim, often immigrants.”

Turtle Cove is a Georgia subdivision of lakeside homes on land that used to be farmed by Williams’ son Hulon. Swift thinks it’s unlikely current residents are aware of what happened there. Looking down the golf course fairway “is such a jarring contrast to what you know happened a century ago,” he says. “It’s mind boggling.”

Earl Swift unearths heinous history in his narrative nonfiction book, Hell Put to Shame: The 1921 Murder Farm Massacre and the Horror of America’s Second Slavery

Join us as we celebrate Indigenous artists and designers impacting the fashion world.

Tuesday, April 16

Indigenous Australian Art Takes the Runway Digital program

Hosted by Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection

Thursday, April 18

Keynote Speaker

Patricia Michaels, Taos Pueblo

You may think you know her from Project Runway, but there is so much more to learn about and from this dynamic designer.

Friday, April 19

Charlottesville Events & Programs

For complete listings visit our website

Saturday, April 20

Gordonsville Events & Programs

For complete listings visit our website

Raffle

Tickets are $25 each or 5 for $100

A one-of-a-kind bracelet designed and created by Lee Angelo Marraccini of Angelo Jewelry.

All proceeds will benefit The Fralin Museum of Art at UVA.

fralinfashionasart.com

CULTURE THIS WEEK

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 37

Saturday 4/13

Queeraoke. Sing out loud and proud. Free, 9pm. Holly’s Diner, 1221 E. Market St.

Riverside Jamboree. Performances by local musicians Holy River and Diane Cluck as well as a silent auction, food, and drink. $25, 5pm. Rivanna River Company, 1538 E. High St. rivannarivercompany.com

Sam Hunt. Country music performer brings his Outskirts Tour. With special guests Brett Young and Lily Rose. $19-272, 7:30pm. John Paul Jones Arena, 295 Massie Rd. johnpaul jonesarena.com

Sue Harlow. Local singer-songwriter performs while you enjoy wine and beautiful views. Free, 1pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwoodf armandwinery.com

The Pollocks. Batesville Market’s house band not only brings it, they burn it down. $15, 7pm. The Batesville Market, 6624 Plank Rd., Batesville. batesvillemarket.com

University Singers. The University of Virginia’s flagship choral ensemble presents its spring concert. $15, 8pm. Old Cabell Hall. music.virginia.edu

stage

FIREFLIES. See listing for Thursday, April 11. $23-27, 8pm. Live Arts, 123 E. Water St. livearts.org

words

Greg Wrenn. Greg Wrenn discusses his new book, Mothership: A Memoir of Wonder and Crisis. Free, 7pm. New Dominion Bookshop, 404 E Main St., Downtown Mall. ndbookshop.com

classes

Candle-making Workshop. Candle making guided by Shaniece Be of Just Be Well. $45, 1pm. The Scrappy Elephant, 1745 Allied St. scrappyelephant.com

Needle Felted Koozies. Learn needle felting basics to make a koozie for your favorite jar or mug. $20, 10:15am. The Scrappy Elephant, 1745 Allied St. scrappyelephant.com

Paint + Sip. Paint and enjoy beverages at a fundraiser for Makindu Children’s Program. $45, 2pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potterscraftcider.com etc.

An Evening with Dana Milbank. Washington Post opinion columnist and author Dana Milbank discusses his recent move to the area. Free, 6pm. Jefferson School African American Heritage Center and Carver Recreation Center, 233 Fourth St., NW. jeffschoolheritagecenter.org

Charade Widow Audrey Hepburn falls into a web of mystery—and into the arms of charming Cary Grant—in this sparkling comedy-thriller. $10, noon. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, 5th Street Station. drafthouse.com/ charlottesville

Kids Art Smash. Gallery staff invites kids to smash open the artwork in the tradition of piñata, pignata, and general artwork iconoclasm. Free, 11am. Second Street Gallery, 115 Second St SE. secondstreetgallery.org

Mandy Nicolas Cage won’t rest until he avenges the murder of his wife by demented cult members in this 2018 thriller. $10, 9:30pm. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, 5th Street Station. drafthouse.com/charlottesville Puzzle Crawl. See listing for Friday, April 12. $15, all day. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. dairymarketcville.com

Storytime. Readings of recent favorites and children’s classics. Free, 11am. New Dominion Bookshop, 404 E. Main St. Downtown Mall. newdominionbookshop.com

Sunday 4/14 music

Irish Music. Patrick and Aaron Olwell and friends play Irish folk music. Free, 2:30pm. Albemarle CiderWorks, 2545 Rural Ridge Ln., North Garden. albemarlecider works.com

Jazz Connection. Quartet plays jazz standards, occasional originals, and highlights guest performers. Free, 6pm. Kardinal Hall, 722 Preston Ave. kardinalhall.com

Les Amitiés Musicales. A concert for violin and piano in honor of a delegation visit from Besançon, Charlottesville’s French sister city. Free, 4pm. Grisham Hall, St. Anne’s-Belfield School, 2132 Ivy Rd.

Matt Johnson. Local singer-songwriter performs acoustic tunes. Free, 2pm. Glass House Winery, 5898 Free Union Rd., Free Union. glasshousewinery.com

Olivarez Trio. Rick Olivarez, Dave Berzonsky, and Jeff Cheers create a vibrant acoustic blend of French gypsy jazz styles. Free, 1pm. Chisholm Vineyards at Adventure Farm, 1135 Clan Chisholm Ln., Earlysville. chisholmvineyards.com

Rachael Davis. Multi-instrumentalist known for her expressive voice and uniting the often desperate worlds of folk, blues, country, and pop. $20-25, 8pm. The Southern Café and Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com

Second Sunday Bluegrass Jam. All levels, all ages, and all instruments are welcome to play. Free, 2pm. The Batesville Market, 6624 Plank Rd., Batesville. batesville market.com

Sunday Jazz Jam. Jazz musicians improvise with friends and strangers. Free, 6pm. Miller’s Downtown, 109 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. millersdowntown.com

The Buzz Bees. Early jazz with a nod to New Orleans from Laissez Foure. Free, 2pm. DuCard Vineyards, 40 Gibson Hollow Ln., Etlan. ducardvineyards.com

WTJU Vinyl Takeover. Your favorite WTJU Radio DJs spin while you sip. Free, 1pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potterscraftcider.com

stage

FIREFLIES See listing on Thursday, April 11. $23-27, 2pm. Live Arts, 123 E. Water St. livearts.org

classes

Paint + Sip. Lavender is the theme for this wineglass craft experience. $40, 2pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd.

dance

Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo. The world’s foremost all-male comic ballet company brings its groundbreaking repertoire. $24-44, 7:30pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net etc.

Developmental Darts. Learn to play darts. Free, 1pm. Decipher Brewing, 1740 Broadway St. decipherbrewingco.com

Labyrinth Movie Party. Goblin King David Bowie lures Jennifer Connelly into an underground wonderland. $13, 6pm. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, 5th Street Station. draft house.com/charlottesville

Puzzle Crawl. See listing for Friday, April 12. $15, all day. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market.

Selena Jennifer Lopez’s breakthrough role, portraying the queen of Tejano. $10, 12pm. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, 5th Street Station. drafthouse.com/charlottesville

Snakes of Central Virginia Hike. Educational hike to learn about the snakes of central Virginia. Free, 1pm. Ivy Creek Natural Area and Historic River View Farm, 1780 Earlysville Rd. ivycreekfoundation.org

Monday 4/15

music

Berto and Vincent. A lively blend of live rumba guitar. Free, 6:30pm. South and Central Latin Grill, 946 Grady Ave. southand centralgrill.com

Marinus. A unique musical fusion of Bach’s classical compositions with the soulful sounds of Appalachia. $29, 6:30pm. King Family Vineyard, 6550 Roseland Farm, Crozet. kingfamilyvineyards.com

etc.

Geeks Who Drink Trivia. Wrack your brain with trivia host Audrey. Free, 6:30pm. Decipher Brewing, 1740 Broadway St.

Spider-Man Tobey Maguire gets into the swing of things after he’s bitten by a radioactive spider. $10, 7pm. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, 5th Street Station. drafthouse.com/ charlottesville

Tammy and the T-Rex (Gore Cut). The boyfriend is killed by lions and his brain ends up transplanted into the skull of a robotic dinosaur. $10, 7:30pm. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, 5th Street Station. drafthouse.com/ charlottesville

Trivia on Tap. Themed trivia hosted by Olivia. Free, 7pm. Three Notch’d Craft Kitchen & Brewery, 520 Second St SE. threenotchd brewing.com

Tuesday 4/16 music

A Night of Percussion. The UVA Percussion Ensemble featuring guest artist, Brady Spitz. $10, 8pm. Old Cabell Hall. music.virginia.edu

Karaoke. Sign up and sing your favorite songs hosted by Thunder Music. Free, 9pm. Holly’s Diner, 1221 E. Market St.

Vincent Zorn. Solo sets of wild gypsy rumba. Free, 7pm. The Bebedero, 225 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thebebadero.com

classes

Paint by the Numbers and Sip Night. Custom paint-by-the-number kits available along with your choice of brew. $30, 5pm. Three Notch’d Craft Kitchen & Brewery 520 Second St SE. threenotchdbrewing.com

etc.

Dawn of the Dead See listing for Friday, April 12. $10, 7pm. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, 5th Street Station. drafthouse.com/ charlottesville

French Sister City Reception. Charlottesville Sister Cities Commission hosts a reception to honor a delegation from the Charlottesville’s sister city of Besançon, France. Free, 6pm. Create Gallery at Indoor Biotechnologies, 700 Harris St. cvillesister cities.com

Geeks Who Drink Trivia. An evening of challenging questions and endless fun. Free, 7pm. Firefly, 1304 E. Market St.

Ecological wonder

Greg Wrenn explores ayahuasca and coral reefs in lyrical memoir

By Sarah Lawson arts@c-ville.com

“T

o tell you about the beauty, I must also speak of threat,” writes Greg Wrenn in Mothership: A Memoir of Wonder and Crisis. A complex exploration into personal and ecological trauma that also investigates alternative healing and the cultivation of wonder, this book is as much a prompt for personal reflection as it is a call to climate action.

A survivor of childhood abuse, Wrenn spent decades in denial about and dissociating from his trauma. Much of Mothership is focused on processing relationships (especially that with his mother) and attempting to come to terms with his past. “It felt impossible to write about climate change without discussing my upbringing, to meditate on our future without thinking about my past,” he writes. “Denial leads many Americans to tell themselves pollution is a sign of progress and climate change is a hoax. It leads perpetrators to rebrand abuse as no big deal. … Whether we’re talking about abusers and victims—or people and the planet—it’s all part of what’s known as our extraction mindset.”

Built on a series of experimental eco-essays that Wrenn composed before he fully undertook the work of trauma processing, Mothership is rooted in his formal education as a poet as well as a love of nature. A self-described citizen scientist, he first explored coral reefs on a fourth-grade snorkeling trip in the Florida Keys, and has taken countless diving trips since, including repeat visits to the Raja Ampat Islands of Indonesia, which he describes in detail. Still, when sharing these experiences in his initial essays, he says he “wrote from that place of [environmental] concern, but wasn’t ready to make it personal yet.”

This avoidance aligns with his earlier work. “For me, poetry was an escape,” says Wrenn. “I hid behind symbolism and metaphors. In the kind of poetry that I was trained to write, fragmentation was praised … and a traumatized brain struggles to tell a story about the past because it is in fragments. For some, it’s a craft element but, for me, it’s my lived experience.”

That shifted when Wrenn began participating in ayahuasca ceremonies as a way of coping with suicidal ideation and addiction that resulted from C-PTSD (complex post-traumatic stress disorder).

“Ayahuasca helped me shift my identity from that of a poet to that of a prose writer, from a victim and an addict to someone empowered, who took responsibility for my brain … and in taking that responsibility, I realized I had a story to tell,” he says. Combining earlier essay themes with newer memoir work in Mothership, Wrenn reflects on the ways that silent meditation retreats, forest bathing, and medicinal use of psychedelics kept him alive and helped turn his attention to global concerns of impending climate collapse.

Indeed, after enduring ineffective attempts to address his trauma through talk therapy and psychopharmacology, Wrenn’s journey with ayahuasca led to dramatic change. From his first experiment with DMT, “in Tennessee at a multiday gathering of Radical Faeries, a group of back-to-nature queer folks,” to more focused medicinal use of ayahuasca at more than 30 private ceremonies held in places as varied as a Peruvian retreat center, the D.C. suburbs, the Amazon, rural Virginia, the Catskills, and—perhaps most stereotypical of contemporary ayahuasca culture in the U.S.—a Brooklyn loft. Wrenn reflects, “I was a patient, not a thrill-seeking tourist blind to the realities of cultural appropriation.” He expresses conflicted feelings about the colonialist

power structures that are part of ayahuasca use among many, while nonetheless relying on these very structures for his own healing. However, he sees this as necessary after all other attempts to recover failed. “In healing myself, what awakened in me was the need for us to heal the planet,” he says. “So many of us receive healing from nature and it only seems fair that we should return the favor. … What we’re facing amounts to global C-PTSD.”

Alongside statistics about the severity of the climate cataclysm humans have wrought, Wrenn’s literary lyricism infuses Mothership in poetic phrasing and devices, including a chapter written as a letter to Adara, his “seventh or seventeenth great-niece,” a nod to the Iroquois’ Seventh Generation Principle. Here he grapples with one of the core ethical questions of our times. “As coral elsewhere is bleaching and dying, I’m here to document reefs that are still healthy and gorgeous,” he writes. “My carbon from my flights on this trip will melt Arctic sea ice about the size of my office.” Wrenn continues, “I did that to you, Adara. … No apology I could offer would be enough, but I want you to know I’m sorry. Sorry and ashamed you inherited the planet you did because of our inaction.”

Without looking away from the complicated and dark reality of climate collapse, Wrenn’s work is a project of inspiring wonder, sharing the beauty of reef ecosystems as a reminder to care. In this, he conjures coral textures and fleeting flashes of fish. He evokes an awe in the world, which might be more ephemeral than we know, if we continue to live with an extraction mindset.

“I tell myself, etch the shark and the coral into your mind’s eye. Hold these memories close like the philosopher’s stone for when you’re an old man and the ocean isn’t the same,” writes Wrenn. “Share them with anyone who will listen and believe.”

“So many of us receive healing from nature and it only seems fair that we should return the favor. … What we’re facing amounts to global C-PTSD.”

Greg Wrenn will discuss his book, Mothership: A Memoir of Wonder and Crisis, on Saturday, April 13, at 7pm at New Dominion Bookshop.

SUPPLIED PHOTO

A few spots are still available for Elementary and Middle School students. High School opportunities are open to rising 9th grade through College Freshman. Our students highlight their Light House experience on resumes and college applications. Many have gone on to study at NYU, UVA, USC, SCAD, Chapman, and more!

Fun & Safety:

ACA-Accredited Camps Set the Standard

Camps and ACA form a partnership that promotes growth and fun in an environment committed to safety.

ACA Accreditation means that your child’s summer camp cares enough to undergo a thorough peer review of its operation — from staff qualifications and training to emergency management. American Camp Association collaborates with experts from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Red Cross, and other youth-serving agencies to assure that current practices at your child’s camp reflect the most upto-date, research-based standards in camp operation. Camps and ACA form a partnership that promotes growth and fun in an environment committed to safety.

ACA helps member camps provide:

• Healthy, developmentally appropriate activities and learning experiences

• Discovery through experiential education

• Caring, competent role models

• Service to the community and the environment

• Opportunities for leadership and personal growth

Answers to Parents' Most Frequently Asked Questions About Camp Accreditation

What’s the difference between state licensing of camps and accreditation by ACA?

Accreditation is voluntary and ACA accreditation assures families that camps have made the commitment to a safe, nurturing environment for their children. If a state requires licensing, it is mandatory; licensing requirements vary from state to state. ACA standards are recognized by courts of law and government regulators as the standards of the camp community.

How do ACA standards exceed state licensing requirements?

ACA goes beyond basic requirements for health, cleanliness, and food service into specific areas of programming, including camp staff from director through counselors, emergency management plans, health care, and management. ACA applies separate standards for activities such as waterfront, horseback riding, and adventure and travel.

What are some of the ACA standards that camps rely on?

• Staff-to-camper ratios that are appropriate for different age groups

• Training for staff to minimize 1:1 camper/staff interactions

• Goals for camp activities that are developmentally based

• Emergency transportation available at all times

• First-aid facilities and trained staff available when campers are present

• Staff appropriately trained to lead program

Does ACA accreditation require criminal background checks?

ACA accreditation standards require a staff screening system, which includes an annual criminal background check on all seasonal staff and at least every five years on year-round staff. When talking to a camp director as you consider enrolling your child, ask what the screening process for that camp includes.

In addition to the criminal background checks referenced above, ACA standards require additional staff screening which includes an application, interview and reference checks upon initial hire (along with a criminal background check); annual checks of the National Sex Offender Public website and an annual voluntary disclosure statement. Staff training and staff/camper supervision are also critical to ACA standards.

How can I verify that my child's camp is ACA accredited?

Parents can (and should) verify the accreditation status of any camp at any time by visiting ACA's Web site at www.ACAcamps.org or by calling 1-800428-CAMP.

If your child's summer camp isn't ACA-accredited, ask WHY NOT?

Keep in Mind — Informed parents are best prepared to select a camp that meets their standards for staff, programs, safety, and facilities and strives to promote the welfare of every child.

Join one of our many classes, summer camps, pre-professional programs, our Youth After School Program (YAS!) or Private Lessons for all ages. Join us at the Belmont Arts Collaborative, or our new studio on the Downtown Mall: Studio D! Find out more at DMRAdventures.com 221 Carlton Rd, Ste. 4 434-227-4710 office@DMRAdventures.com

WEEKLY SPECIALS

Mondays-Fridays

Wine & Food Specials

Wednesdays

Chef Tasting Series 3/27

Paint & Sip 4/3, 5/8

Eight Winemakers, Eight Stories, Eight Minutes With Each: A Wine Tasting Experience | Tom Tom Festival 4/17

Monticello Wine Week’s White Wine Showcase 5/1

10% Off Bottles Every Wednesday Thursdays

Thursday Night Music Series

Live Music 5-8PM -or- Music Bingo 6-8PM

$5 Glasses Of Wine, Beer & Cider and Chip Flights

Fridays

Live Music 5-8PM Every Friday

Virginia Oyster & Wine Celebration 4/5, 4/12, 4/19, 4/26

Barrels & Tanks Tasting Pop Up - Select Fridays

(See Winery Calendar For Details & Dates Of Tasting Pop Up)

Saturdays

Live Music All Day Every Saturday:

Afternoon

Live Music 1-4PM

Eastwood After Dark: Fun & Lively Bands 5-8PM

Sundays

Music Bingo 3/31, 4/28

Paint & Sip 4/14, 5/26

Maker’s Market 4/14, 5/12

Eastwood After Dark

Upbeat & Fun Bands Every Saturday Night

Gather your friends and family and join us for live music that you’ll want to dance to! Plus, sit back and enjoy your favorite glass of wine, beer or cider along with delicious food, an extensive non-alcoholic menu, and great options for kids and the whole family.

Saturday, March 30: Kat & The Travelers | 5-8PM

Saturday, April 6: 804 Band | 5-8PM

Saturday, April 13: F.O.G. | 5-8PM

Saturday, April 20: Lockjaw Classic Rock | 5-8PM

Saturday, April 27: Kurt Crandall & True Story | 5-8PM

SCAN FOR WINERY CALENDAR

GATHER WITH YOUR TEAM, FRIENDS & FAMILY

We offer Large Party Reservations for 7-30+ people and Private Events for up to 200 people. Enjoy our wine, beer, and cider along with delicious food in two beautiful spaces. Now booking spring and summer gatherings. Plan your event today!

Open Daily & Year-Round | Only 5 Miles From Downtown Charlottesville | Pet Friendly eastwoodfarmandwinery.com

Charlottesville’s local lingerie store since 2005featuring professional bra fit services with a whole lot of kindness and a little bit of sass -

and a dedication to supporting our local community in many different ways. 605

434.977.7455

www.silkybottom.com

Jimmy and Mary North of Airflow Systems have been an integral part of the Charlottesville Community for over 3 decades. Jimmy attended Charlottesville High School then went onto Marshall University where he met his wife, Mary. Jimmy played football for Marshall as well as Charlottesville High School.

Jimmy and Mary North of Airflow Systems have been an integral part of the Charlottesville Community for over 3 decades. Jimmy attended Charlottesville High School then went onto Marshall University where he met his wife, Mary. Jimmy played football for Marshall as well as Charlottesville High School.

Jimmy and Mary North of Airflow Systems have been an integral part of the Charlottesville Community for over 3 decades. Jimmy attended Charlottesville High School then went onto Marshall University where he met his wife, Mary. Jimmy played football for Marshall as well as Charlottesville High School.

They have owned and operated Airflow Systems since 1988 and Jimmy has become the area’s expert in Geothermal technology. Having been a part of this industry for nearly 30 years, they understand when you need an HVAC company it’s hard to know who to TRUST. They have developed a reputation in the community of doing what is right for their clients...no matter the cost.

They have owned and operated Airflow Systems since 1988 and Jimmy has become the area’s expert in Geothermal technology. Having been a part of this industry for nearly 30 years, they understand when you need an HVAC company it’s hard to know who to TRUST. They have developed a reputation in the community of doing what is right for their clients...no matter the cost.

So why is trust so important...

They have owned and operated Airflow Systems since 1988 and Jimmy has become the area’s expert in Geothermal technology. Having been a part of this industry for nearly 30 years, they understand when you need an HVAC company it’s hard to know who to TRUST. They have developed a reputation in the community of doing what is right for their clients...no matter the cost.

So why is trust so important...

• They know their customers and neighbors and that means a lot to them. Having a trusted relationship with your community means everything.

So why is trust so important...

• They know their customers and neighbors and that means a lot to them. Having a trusted relationship with your community means everything.

• They know their customers and neighbors and that means a lot to them. Having a trusted relationship with your community means everything.

• Airflow troubleshoots every service call to ensure it’s not an easy fix like a breaker or a dirty filter, before they dispatch a technician.

• Airflow troubleshoots every service call to ensure it’s not an easy fix like a breaker or a dirty filter, before they dispatch a technician.

• And they won’t sell you a new unit if you don’t need it... if it’s broke they fix it.

• Airflow troubleshoots every service call to ensure it’s not an easy fix like a breaker or a dirty filter, before they dispatch a technician.

• And they won’t sell you a new unit if you don’t need it... if it’s broke they fix it.

Trust is important…so why call anyone else?

• And they won’t sell you a new unit if you don’t need it... if it’s broke they fix it.

Trust is important…so why call anyone else?

Trust the arrow...we ARE Airflow!

Trust is important…so why call anyone else?

Trust the arrow...we ARE Airflow!

Trust the arrow...we ARE Airflow!

434-979-4328

434-979-4328

www.airflow-hvac.com

434-979-4328 www.airflow-hvac.com

www.airflow-hvac.com

Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary

Nelson County, VA (434) 263-4954

Rehabilitating wildlife & educating our community.

Our Impact

875+ injured and orphaned wild animals treated annually.

50 different cities and counties served by RWS programs.

40

free education outreach programs offered across VA annually.

wildlife crisis hotline calls answered daily.

Our Story

It all started with an injured crow.

Our founder, Nathou Attinger, earned her rehabilitator's permit in 2004 and cared for hundreds of wildlife patients over the next decade. What began as a one-woman show has grown into a staff of 10, a standalone modern facility on 22 peaceful acres, and over 50 outdoor enclosures that can cater to most native species. 25

Give wildlife a second chance

Rockfish Wildlife Sanctuary is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

April 1016, 2024

PUZZLES

SUDOKU

Complete the grid so that every row, column, and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.

ACROSS

1. Design det ails

6. Savoir-faire

10. Hunk of marble

14. Danger signal

15. Inter ___ (among others)

16. Intl. defense alliance

17. “M*A*S*H” setting

18. “___ and the Real Girl”

19. Other, en español

20. Social media message that a percussive off-Broadway show is getting a movie deal?

23. Palindromic magazine title

24. Toyota’s luxury division

25. “Carte”

35. Company that merged with Minolta in 2003

37. Nab some showy jewelry from jail?

43. “Brigadoon” lyricist Alan Jay ___

44. Mononymous Irish singer

45. Seattle setting, briefly

47. Like lost files

51. Talking bear film-turnedTV show

52. Analgesic’s targets 54. “Pale” drinks 56. Trash talk

Frequently DOWN

1. “Fifth Avenue” store

2. Novel storyline

3. Architect Saarinen

4. Cadbur y egg filler

5. Corner fastener

6. Like Penn, vis-a-vis Teller

7. Jai ___ (fast-moving game)

8. Newspaper sales

36. Cavaliers, on the scoreboard

38. “___ Groove” (1985 hip-hop movie)

39. TV debut of 1980

40. “___ Miserables”

41. Science guy Bill

42. Josh of “Frozen II”

45. Tempo of a play’s dialogue

46. Torch bearer

48. Times off, slangily

49. Tundra wanderer

50. Mississippi River explorer Hernando

53. Discharge, as perspiration, scientifically speaking

55. Papa or Brainy

57. Docking station?

58. Language that gave us “khaki”

59. Right away

60. Busy

61. Quote as reference

62. Not dull

By Rob Brezsny

Taurus

(April 20–May 20): Author Betty Bender said, “Anything I’ve ever done that ultimately was worthwhile initially scared me to death.” Painter Georgia O’Keeffe confessed she always harbored chronic anxiety—yet that never stopped her from doing what she loved. Philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Anyone who is not everyday conquering some fear has not learned the secret of life.” I hope these testimonials inspire you to bolster your grit, Taurus. In the coming days, you may not have any more or less fear than usual. But you will be able to summon extra courage and willpower as you render the fear at least semi-irrelevant.

Gemini

(May 21–June 20): Richard the Lionheart was a medieval king of England. How did he get his nickname? Scholars say it was because of his skill as a military leader. But legend tells an additional story. As a young man, Richard was imprisoned by an enemy who arranged for a hungry lion to be brought into his cell. As the beast opened its maw to maul the future king, Richard thrust his arm down its throat and tore out its heart, killing it. What does this tale have to do with you, Gemini? I predict you will soon encounter a test that’s less extreme than Richard’s but equally solvable by bursts of creative ingenuity. Though there will be no physical danger, you will be wise to call on similar boldness. Drawing on the element of surprise may also serve you well.

Cancer

(June 21–July 22): Will the adventures heading your way be unusual, amusing, and even unprecedented? I bet they will have at least some of those elements. You could encounter plot twists you’ve never witnessed or imagined. You may be inspired to dream up creative adjustments unlike any you’ve tried. These would be very positive developments. They suggest you’re becoming more comfortable with expressing your authentic self and less susceptible to the influence of people’s expectations. Every one of us is a unique genius in some ways, and you’re getting closer to inhabiting the fullness of yours.

Leo

(July 23–Aug. 22): At least for now, help may not be available from the usual sources.

Aries

(March 21-April 19): Now is a favorable time to make initial inquiries, ask for free samples, and enjoy window shopping. But it’s not an opportune time to seal final decisions or sign binding contracts. Have fun haggling and exploring, even as you avoid making permanent promises. Follow the inklings of your heart more than the speculations of your head, but refrain from pledging your heart until lots of evidence is available. You are in a prime position to attract and consider an array of possibilities, and for best results you should remain noncommittal for the foreseeable future.

Is the doctor sick? Does mommy need mothering? Is the therapist feeling depressed? My advice is to not worry about the deficiencies, but rather shift your attention to skillful surrogates and substitutes. They may give you what you need— and even more. I’m reminded of The Crystal Cave, a novel about the Arthurian legend. The king, Ambrosius Aurelianus, advises the magician Merlin, “Take power where it is offered.” In other words: not where you think or wish power would be, but from sources that are unexpected or outside your customary parameters.

Virgo

(Aug. 23–Sept. 22): The rest of the story is not yet ready to emerge, but it will be soon. Be patient just a while longer. When full disclosure arrives, you will no longer have to guess about hidden agendas and simmering subtexts. Adventures in the underworld will move above ground. Missing links will finally appear, and perplexing ambiguities will be clarified. Here’s how you can expedite these developments: Make sure you are thoroughly receptive to knowing the rest of the story. Assert your strong desire to dissolve ignorance.

Libra

(Sept. 23–Oct. 22): In the coming weeks, you can ask for and receive more blessings than usual. So please be aggressive and imaginative about asking! Here are suggestions about what gifts to seek out: 1. Vigorous support as you transform two oppositional forces into complementary influences. 2. Extra money, time, and spaciousness as you convert a drawback into an asset. 3. Kindness and understanding as you ripen an unripe aspect of yourself. 4. Inspiration and advice as you make new connections that will serve your future goals.

Scorpio

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Read the two help-wanted ads below. Meditate on which appeals to you more, and treat this choice as a metaphor for a personal decision you face. 1. “Pedestrian, predictable organization seeks humdrum people with low-grade ambitions for tasks that perform marginally useful services. Interested in exploring mild passions and learning more about the art of spiritual bypassing?”

2. “Our high-octane conclave values the arts of playing while you work and working while you play. Are you ready and able to provide your creative input? Are you interested in exploring the privilege and responsibility of forever reinventing yourself? We love restless seekers who are never bored.”

Sagittarius

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): What is a gourmet bargain? What is a discount marvel? How about an inspiring breakthrough that incurs no debt? Themes like those are weaving their way into your destiny. So be alert for the likelihood that cheap thrills will be superior to the expensive kind. Search for elegance and beauty in earthy locations that aren’t sleek and polished. Be receptive to the possibility that splendor and awe may be available to you at a low cost. Now may be one of those rare times when imperfect things are more sublime than the so-called perfect stuff.

Capricorn

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): “There is always one moment in childhood when the door opens and lets the future in,” wrote novelist Graham Greene. For me, it was three days near the end of third grade when I wrote a fairy tale about the unruly adventures of a fictional kid named Polly. Her wildness was infused with kindness. Her rebellions were assertive but

SON OF A GUN

friendly. For the first time, as I told Polly’s story, I realized I wanted to be an unconventional writer when I grew up. What about you, Capricorn? When you were young, was there a comparable opening to your future? If so, now is a good phase to revisit it, commune with your memories of it, and invite it to inspire the next stage of its evolution in you.

Aquarius

(Jan. 19-Feb. 19): Even when you are your regular, ordinary self, you have a knack and fondness for irregularity and originality. And these days, your affinity for what’s unprecedented and uncommon is even higher than usual. I am happy about that. I am cheering you on. So please enjoy yourself profoundly as you experiment with nonstandard approaches. Be as idiosyncratic as you dare! Even downright weird! But also try to avoid direct conflicts with the Guardians of How Things Have Always Been Done. Don’t allow Change Haters to interfere with your fun or obstruct the enhancements you want to instigate. Be a slippery innovator. Be an irrepressible instigator.

Pisces

(Feb. 20-March 20): Below are truths I hope you will ripen and deepen in the coming months. 1. Negative feelings are not necessarily truer and more profound than positive ones. 2. Cynical opinions are not automatically more intelligent or well-founded than optimistic opinions. 3. Criticizing and berating yourself is not a more robust sign of self-awareness than praising and appreciating yourself. 4. Any paranoia you feel may be a stunted emotion resulting from psychic skills you have neglected to develop. 5. Agitation and anxiety can almost always be converted into creative energy.

Expandedweeklyaudiohoroscopesanddailytextmessagehoroscopes:RealAstrology.com,(877)873-4888

APR. 12 at 7:30 PM

Enjoy the most beloved and cherished music in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s vast library.

APR. 14 at 3:00 PM

Son of a Gun frontman Ari Kamin was handpicked by drummer Steven Adler for his solo band recreating the power and glory of Guns N’ Roses on the Sunset Strip.

APR. 19 at 7:30 PM

Want to help build a powerful local brand? Looking for a job that connects you to every aspect of life in our city?

C-VILLE Weekly is looking to add a dynamic salesperson to our advertising sales team. We are looking for a fearless self-starter to manage a list of established clients and develop new business. Does this sound like you?

The right person will join our hard working staff in a fast-paced online and print publishing environment. This is a F/T hybrid, salaried position with great perks and benefits! Send resume to: anna@c-ville.com

v.

J. BRUFFEY

OSCAR J. BRUFFY,

MARY GERTRUDE NEWTON BRUFFY, deceased

OSCAR NEWTON BRUFFY, deceased

MARY R. BRUFFY

LIZABETH M. WORTHINGON aka

ELIZABETH M. KRAFT aka

LIZABETH MINA KRAFFT

DOUGLAS CLARK BRUFFY, deceased

JUANITA YVONNE ZEHRING BRUFFY, deceased

JAMES DOUGLAS WILLIAM BRUFFY

MICHAEL STEVEN BRUFFY

RONALD LEIGH BRUFFY

WILHELMINA FRANCES BRUFFY, deceased and any other heirs, devisees, personal representatives, successors, or assigns, if any, of Oscar J. Bruffey aka Oscar J. Bruffy, and any other Respondent, as they may appear, proceeded against herein as PARTIES UNKNOWN, Respondents.

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of this suit is to effect a judicial sale of certain real property, reportedly containing 0.2960 acre, more or less, and designated as Tax Map Parcel No. 210004000, and which is being assessed on the tax records of the City of Charlottesville, Virginia in the name of Oscar J. Bruffey, in order to subject such property to the lien thereon for delinquent real estate taxes.

It appearing from the Complaint and by the Affidavit filed according to law that James Douglas William Bruffy is not a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia and that his last known address is 1212 Golf Meadow Boulevard, Valrico, Florida 22594.

It appearing from the Complaint and by the Affidavit filed according to law that Lizabeth M. Worthington aka Elizabeth M. Kraft aka Lizabeth Mina Kraft is not a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia and that her last known address is 8240 N. 126th East Avenue, Owasso, Oklahoma 74055.

It also appearing from the Complaint and by the Affidavit filed according to law that diligence has been used without effect to ascertain the location of Mary R. Bruffy.

It also appearing from the Complaint and by the Affidavit filed according to law that diligence has been used that may not have successfully ascertained the location of Michael Steven Bruffy and Ronald Leigh Bruffy.

It appearing from the Complaint and by the Affidavit filed according to law that the Complainant has used due diligence to ascertain all of the owners of the subject property but has been unable to do so and that there are or may be persons unknown who claim or may claim an interest in the property, namely the heirs, devisees, personal representatives, successors, or assigns in and to the title and interest of Oscar J. Bruffey aka Oscar J. Bruffy and any other Respondent.

It is therefore ORDERED that James Douglas William Bruffy, Lizabeth M. Worthington aka Elizabeth M. Kraft aka Lizabeth Mina Krafft, Mary R. Bruffy, Michael Steven Bruffy, Ronald Leigh Bruffy, and any other heirs, devisees, personal representatives, successors, or assigns, if any, of Oscar J. Bruffey aka Oscar J. Bruffy, and any other Respondent, as they may appear, proceeded against herein as “Parties Unknown,” appear on or before May 6, 2024, and take such action as they deem appropriate to protect any interests they may have in the above-described property.

It is further ORDERED that the foregoing portion of this Order be published once a week for two consecutive weeks in the C-Ville Weekly, that a copy hereof be posted on the door of the Courthouse and that a copy be mailed to the last known address, if any, of the Respondents.

The Clerk is hereby directed to send this Order to the C-Ville Weekly and to make the aforementioned posting and mailings. And this cause is continued.

The top of the Water Street Garage was a popular spot on Monday, April 8, when residents gathered a little before 3pm to see the partial (about 86 percent) eclipse, when the moon blocked a large part of the sun from view. If you missed it, you’ll have to wait a while for a similar experience:

On March 30, 2033, only Alaska will be included in the path of totality, but a partial solar eclipse will be visible over most of the rest of the United States. In the contiguous U.S., totality will occur again on August 22, 2044, over North Dakota and Montana.

SUSAN SORENSEN

Photograph by Gene Runion

Vault proudly presents guest speaker Peter Pinchot, founder of Whole Forest, on a new business model connecting tropical forests with green building to reduce carbon emissions. Reception to follow. Register below.