CVILLE Weekly | July 9 - 15, 2025

Detours ahead: Summer traffic will be taking a new route P.9

Charlottesville says it plans to restore the nixed zoning code P.15

Kai Crowe-Getty goes solo, finding beauty in The Wreckage P.27

Tapped

Inside the fight to safeguard central Virginia’s most vital resource

JACK LOONEY

My name is Jordan Hague and I created Equity Saver USA in 2008 to offer a better, more affordable service to disrupt and challenge what I personally experienced to be an outdated and flawed approach to Realtor compensation at the expense of sellers and buyers.

In 2024 the National Association of Realtors settled a billion dollar lawsuit related to inflated Realtor commission practices. This monumental settlement opens the door for true free market competition and innovation to thrive. I’ve successfully sold homes using a 1% model for nearly 2 decades proving the old “6% legacy” commission model is a waste of money and does nothing to help promote affordable housing. Contact me direct to arrange a no obligation meeting to learn more.

“Jordan

Hello, Charlottesville.

Thank you for reading C-VILLE Weekly.

The day this paper comes out, I’ll be raising a glass to 18 years of working at C-VILLE Weekly.

It’s a strange time to be in local news. The media landscape is fractured; trust in institutions is shaky; the pace of everything feels relentless. And yet—week after week—we keep showing up, putting out a paper, telling the stories that matter here. It’s not always easy, but it still feels essential.

Kind of like the subject of this week’s cover story (p.18): water. (Apologies for the tenuous segue; when you’ve worked somewhere for nearly two decades, you’ve earned the right to occasionally take a semantic liberty.) For the piece, writer Nathan Alderman dove into our region’s water systems: the reservoirs and pipes and treatment plants that most of us never think about, unless something goes wrong.

And sometimes, water reminds us—devastatingly—that even strong systems have limits. Last week’s deadly flooding in Texas Hill Country showed how quickly a river can rise, how quietly danger can come in the night, and how vulnerable we are when there’s no time for warnings.

Like journalism, this infrastructure flows along quietly in the background, doing its job, adapting to change, responding to pressure—and making life possible in ways we often take for granted.

Eighteen years in, I’m as grateful as ever to be part of something that still flows, still serves, still holds weight.

This week’s contributors

Know an A+ educator?

As we gear up for our forthcoming back-to-school issue, we want to spotlight the educators who go above and beyond for their students. Nominate a local teacher who deserves some extra love and we’ll take it from there, sharing their story (and later, their classroom needs) with the community. Visit bit.ly/cvilleteachers to tell us about a teacher who’s made a difference.

Nathan Alderman is a writer, editor, and Oxford comma enthusiast in Crozet, Virginia. He volunteers for civic causes, folds a lot of laundry, and adores his spouse and his large, loud, hungry children. He’s written for C-VILLE, Macworld magazine, and The Motley Fool, among others. Read his work on page 18.

Shea Gibbs is president of public relations and marketing firm Gibbs Communications and has been a working journalist for more than two decades. Gibbs’ work has appeared in trade and consumer publications across the country and internationally. Read his work on page 27.

LIFT & TIGHTEN

IN THIS ISSUE

FEATURE

Stimulates

NEWS 9

An update on ongoing (and upcoming) local transit projects.

Community gathers at UVA to protest Jim Ryan’s forced resignation.

Real Estate: Charlottesville vows to restore its new zoning code.

CULTURE 23

Stages: Fantastic Cat at The Southern. 27 Feedback: Lord Nelson’s Kai Crowe-Getty goes his own way.

Sudoku

Crossword

Free

Kluge-Ruhe’s Nici Cumpston in The HotSeat

TORIAL

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Caite Hamilton editor@c-ville.com

ART DIRECTOR

Max March max@c-ville.com

CULTURE EDITOR

Tami Keaveny tami@c-ville.com

NEWS REPORTER

Catie Ratliff reporter@c-ville.com

NEWS CONTRIBUTOR

Sean Tubbs

ASSOCIATE CULTURE EDITOR

CM Turner arts@c-ville.com

COPY EDITOR

Susan Sorensen

NEWS INTERN

Patrick McDowell

CONTRIBUTORS

Rob Brezsny, Dave Cantor, Matt Dhillon, Carol Diggs, Shea Gibbs, Claudia Gohn, Mary Jane Gore, Maeve Hayden, Andrew Hollins, Erika Howsare, Matt Jones, Sarah Lawson, Kristin O’Donoghue, Lisa Provence, Sarah Sargent, Kristie Smeltzer, Jen Sorensen, Julia Stumbaugh, Paul Ting

ADVERTISING

advertising@c-ville.com

DIRECTOR OF SALES

Bianca Johnson bianca@c-ville.com

REAL ESTATE & CLASSIFIED ACCOUNT MANAGER

Brian Hrozencik brian@c-ville.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Stephanie Vogtman-Say stephanie@c-ville.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Tracy Federico designer@c-ville.com

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Faith Gibson ads@c-ville.com

BUSINESS

PUBLISHER

Anna Harrison anna@c-ville.com

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Debbie Miller debbie@c-ville.com

A/R SPECIALIST

Nanci Winter (434) 373-0429

CIRCULATION MANAGER

Billy Dempsey circulation@c-ville.com

C-VILLE HOLDINGS, LLC

Bill Chapman, Blair Kelly

C-VILLE Weekly is Charlottesville, Virginia's award-winning alternative newspaper. Through our distinctive coverage, we work to spark curiosity and enable readers to engage meaningfully with their community.

FRIDAY, JULY 11

SATURDAY, JULY 12 WHITE DENIM WITH TAGUA TAGUA

AUGUST 1-ON SALE NOW JERRY GARCIA BIRTHDAY BASH FT. SISTERS AND BROTHERS WITH ANDY TICHENOR'S ALMOST ACOUSTIC

AUGUST 23-ON SALE NOW MARIANA BELL BAND WITH SPECIAL GUEST MIKE BURRIS

PHISH TRIBUTE 07-30| THE WILDMANS WITH DORI FREEMAN 08-02| NO BS! BRASS 08-16| LYAO STAND UP WITH COREY RYAN FORRESTER 08-16| COSMIC CHARLIE (GRATEFUL DEAD TRIBUTE)

08-21| SOUL MEETS BODY (RELEASE PARTY) WITH SHAGWUF AND LADADA 08-28| MOUNTAIN GRASS UNIT 09-05| CHATHAM COUNTY LINE/ THE MAMMALS 09-09| ATTA BOY

09-17| KENDRA MORRIS WITH VIRG 09-20| LOW WATER BRIDGE BAND/ JAKE KOHN

On the road

The latest and largest changes coming to area traffic BY CATIE RATLIFF

Summer’s off to a blazing start, and transit crews have hit the road, working on projects in and around Charlottesville. From initiatives already underway to those a few years from breaking ground, C-VILLE put the pedal to the metal to find out what’s happening on area roadways (and one new pedestrian bridge).

NEWS TRAFFIC

Bridging the gap

With the opening of a pedestrian bridge this fall, the Virginia Department of Transportation will complete its years-long U.S. 29 and Hydraulic Road improvement projects. Work on the new bridge is currently underway, with an expected completion date of October 2025.

Improvements to the Route 29 and Hydraulic Road area are designed to make the area safer and more efficient for motorists and pedestrians.

Most of the planned changes, namely the Hillsdale Drive roundabout and signal rework at the intersection of Hydraulic Road and Route 29, were finished in summer 2024. VDOT does not currently have data measuring the effect of the in-place portions of the project on travel times through the area.

According to a recent VDOT study, approximately 56,000 vehicles use Seminole Trail/U.S. 29 between Barracks Road and Woodbrook Drive daily. Crossing all nine lanes of U.S. 29 as a pedestrian is difficult—and dangerous—given the amount of vehicle traffic and 45-mile-per-hour speed limit (that many motorists ignore) through the area.

Upon completion, pedestrians can use the bridge located just north of Zan Road to cross the major throughway. The location of the crossing was chosen, at least partially, to allow for better connection between the Seminole Square Shopping Center and The Shops at Stonefield.

“Construction of the pedestrian bridge is progressing as scheduled, with the bridge deck anticipated to be poured in late July,” says Alexis Mehretab, communications manager for VDOT’s Culpeper District.

Rounding it out

In the Crozet area, VDOT crews are working at the intersection of Three Notch’d Road

(Route 240), Rockfish Gap Turnpike (Route 250), and Browns Gap Turnpike (Route 680). The incoming traffic circle is part of a fiveintersection design-build bundle.

The project connecting routes 240, 250, and 680 is funded through the Highway Safety Improvement Program, and will eventually replace the existing intersection with a single-lane, four-leg roundabout. According to Mehretab, a detour closing Browns Gap Turnpike between Rockfish Gap Turnpike and Old Three Notch’d Road to through traffic will go into effect in mid-July, and last through December 2025.

The traffic circle is expected to be completed by July 2026.

As a proven safety countermeasure, roundabouts are increasingly used by VDOT at intersections throughout the

commonwealth. According to the Federal Highway Administration, traffic circles can encourage lower speeds, improve traffic calming, and reduce conflict points. Three other roundabouts, and one Continuous Green-T intersection (in which traffic traveling on the major roadway can continue through the crossing without stopping), will be constructed through the other projects in the design-build bundle, with funding from VDOT SMART Scale, the Highway Safety Improvement Program, and Albemarle County.

Testing, testing

This fall, the City of Charlottesville will also pilot a new traffic pattern at the intersection of Meade Avenue and East High Street.

IN BRIEF

All the news you missed last week (in one sentence or less)

As part of the Move Safely Blue Ridge initiative, the 60-day pilot project will test a new configuration aimed at improving safety at the intersection—the site of five vehicle collisions from 2018 to 2022.

Visibility is a major obstacle at the crossing, creating issues for pedestrians and motorists alike. To improve sight lines and the flow of traffic through the area, the city will test the second improvement concept proposed. The pilot will affect traffic patterns on Meade Avenue and East High and Stewart streets.

Instead of making a left turn from East High Street directly onto Meade Avenue, motorists will use Stewart Street. By removing the direct access from East High Street, city planners hope to significantly reduce traffic on the portion of Meade Avenue between the East High Street and Stewart Street intersections.

“We’re trying to move some of that commercial traffic and through traffic onto Stewart, which is more of a commercial corridor,” says Ben Chambers, transportation planning manager for the city. Since City Council already approved the program in May, Chambers has been working to obtain all the materials needed for the pilot. “We are now working with our consultant to finish up the final schematic drawings for this and also identify some temporary stoplight that we can purchase. So part of this project is turning off the stoplight at Meade and East High, and then putting in a temporary one at Stewart to facilitate those left turns up at Stewart.”

The initiative will also affect pedestrians’ pathing, with the change in traffic pattern allowing for safer crossings.

“There’s going to be more marked crossings in places where, right now, we don’t feel safe putting our crossing,” says Chambers. “That crossing at Meade Avenue at East High Street currently doesn’t have a crosswalk because there’s a sight line visibility issue of cars coming up Meade. … There would be a crosswalk across Stewart with this temporary stoplight, as well

Man’s body found near Norfolk Southern train tracks in Covesville. Alex Meras charged in connection with June 30 double murder on Amhurst Street. Nyeem Hill, subject of a February manhunt, accepts plea deal for three years in prison and two on probation. UVA swimmer Gretchen Walsh wins Honda Cup. University of Virginia’s Board of Visitors abruptly cancels first planned meeting following Jim Ryan’s resignation. Paul Riley announces candidacy for 5th Congressional District. CharlottesvilleAlbemarle SPCA declares shelter is at capacity, urges people to adopt or foster a pet. Local country musician Jim Waive dies July 2. Monticello Naturalization Ceremony welcomes 74 new United States citizens. Transformer outage knocks out power to traffic lights in downtown area July 4.

The new pedestrian bridge that connects Seminole Square Shopping Center and The Shops at Stonefield is slated to open later this year.

as a crosswalk across the current stop sign on Stewart when you’re turning right or left on to East High.”

If the project is a success, the city will keep the temporary infrastructure in place while pursuing federal funding for more permanent infrastructure through the Move Safely Blue Ridge initiative.

Implementation of the pilot has been pushed back to fall 2025 to allow time to obtain materials.

Diet and exercise

On the south side of Charlottesville, the city and VDOT are also planning a “road diet” for Fifth Street Extended.

As the name implies, a road diet is the intentional narrowing of an existing roadway to improve safety.

“We were trying to figure out how to come up with an alternative … to move forward with this project,” says Chambers. “[VDOT] had been doing some road diet work with the city of Harrisonburg … and said, ‘Hey, we’re wrapping up all this work with Harrisonburg. We’ve got a little bit of money left over and some consultant support left over on this contract. Anybody else need a road diet?’ And I said, ‘Ooh, me please. I’ll take your money and your consultant support.’”

While the general idea behind a road diet is relatively straightforward, the extra space previously utilized by the roadway can be repurposed in a multitude of ways.

Through the road diet, Charlottesville hopes to finally implement the first of several longer protected bike lanes recommended in the 2015 Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan. The city is working with VDOT to collate responses to public surveys and feedback provided earlier this year into a preferred alternative for the roadway. The most recent option presented would eliminate one south-bound lane of Fifth Street SW between Cherry Avenue and Fifth Street Station, creating a protected, two-way bike lane.

“In general, the feedback was positive that this does seem like a great opportunity for a protected bike facility in the city,” says Chambers.

More detailed planning for the road diet is in progress at VDOT. Chambers expects to receive the preferred alternative in early- to mid-July, and present it to City Council in late August or early September. Construction will occur either before or after leaf season.

“Who picks up your leaves and your garbage—those guys also help put lines on the ground and help deploy some of our projects,” says Chambers. Due to the overlap between traffic and leaf and snow crews, the road diet will be in place either before the beginning of leaf collection at the end of October, or after the snow season ends around February. “When leaf season and snow season comes, they’re busy. They stay pretty busy.”

Turning it around

After a tumultuous few years for the city’s VDOT portfolio, Charlottesville is making progress on its recently right-sized to-do list, partially through “quick-build” projects.

Last year, Charlottesville was the first of several cities in Virginia to be put on a performance improvement plan by VDOT, due to issues delivering on budget and schedule. Several projects were canceled due to cost increases compared to original estimates following multiyear delays and significant inflation.

“We have something like 20 VDOT-funded projects that we’re churning through and going to be working through over the next couple of years,” says Ben Chambers. “They have been tracking our metrics and our sort of timelines and goals for those timelines, and our performance is starting to trend in a different direction. And they’re very happy with that.”

Quick-build VDOT projects currently under construction include the multiuse pathway along Rugby Avenue by the Brooks Family YMCA, and a Madison Avenue pedestrian connector.

Scaling up

Another major VDOT effort in the early stages of development is the Fontaine Hydraulic design-build bundle, which combines three projects in a single alternative project delivery method through the VDOT SMART Scale program. By combining the projects, VDOT hopes to more efficiently deliver the improvements in the affected high-traffic areas.

Included in the bundle is a rework of the U.S. 29 Bypass interchange at Fontaine Avenue (U.S. 29 Business), improvements to the Fontaine Avenue streetscape, and the installation of a roundabout at the intersection of Hydraulic Road and District Avenue.

One major change is the removal of the existing left-turn lane from northbound U.S. 29 Bypass onto westbound Interstate 64. Upon completion, northbound drivers on the bypass will use a U-turn location to access 64 West. Several pedestrian modality improvements are also included in the bundle, namely the creation of a shared-use pathway on U.S. 29 Business.

“This project is currently in the procurement phase,” says Mehretab. “We anticipate awarding and executing the contract in December 2025.”

Construction on the projects is expected to begin in winter 2026 to 2027, according to the VDOT project page, with completion projected for fall 2029.

Fourth of July shooting

Five people—including three children— were shot and injured around 11:23pm on July 4 during a gathering on Orangedale Avenue.

The victims, a 52-year-old female, 18-year-old female, 17-year-old male, 11-year-old female, and 9-year-old male, are now in stable condition, according to a July 5 Charlottesville Police Department statement.

Charlottesville Police Chief Michael Kochis said investigators believe the shootout was between two gang-affiliated groups with no apparent connection to the bystander victims.

“People have a right to enjoy a holiday and not to worry about two groups of individuals shooting at each other,” Kochis said to NBC29. “The fact that they could [not] care less that there were small children and innocent individuals who were there to do nothing but enjoy the holiday just shows the reckless nature of what happened.”

Authorities encourage anyone with information or video footage of the incident to contact the Crime Stoppers tip line (977-4000) or the CPD.—Patrick McDowell

Speaking up

Protesters demand a halt to federal influence at UVA BY SEAN TUBBS

University of Virginia President Jim Ryan’s last day in office is July 11, and Executive Vice President J.J. Davis will take over the position on an acting basis while a search committee does its work.

On the afternoon of July 4, around 400 people gathered near the Rotunda to protest Ryan’s resignation and the demand from the federal government that prompted it.

“We are rising to refuse to comply, and to pressure the Board of Visitors, the governor, the attorney general, and anyone else who might listen to push back,” said Michelle Kisliuk, a music professor at UVA.

Ryan announced his resignation on June 27 after federal officials questioned the extent to which diversity, equity, and inclusion programs had been removed from the public institution.

“Your Board cannot sit idly by while important federal laws are broken, and fundamental civil rights are impaired,” reads a June 16 letter from two top officials in President Donald Trump’s U.S. Department of Justice.

The letter was addressed to Rachel Sheridan, even though she had not yet become UVA rector. She assumed that position on July 1; now all the voting members of the BOV have been appointed by Gov. Glenn Youngkin.

One of those board members continues to be Ken Cuccinelli, even though a Virginia Senate committee failed to advance his nomination at a meeting on June 9.

State Attorney General Jason Miyares has directed UVA and other public institutions to ignore that vote. The Democrats on the committee sued and a motion for a preliminary injunction will be heard in Fairfax County Circuit Court on July 18.

The July 4 protest was organized by Uprise! Creative Collective of C’ville and co-sponsored by Indivisible Charlottesville.

One of the speakers at the event was John Kluge III, the organizer of a petition for seven specific actions including urging the Board of Visitors to reject Ryan’s resignation, a Constitutional amendment to guarantee academic freedom, and a reform to the way BOV members are selected. At first, Kluge spoke from an editorial he wrote in the voice of Thomas Jefferson.

“This is no mere dispute of policy,” Kluge said. “It is a naked overreach of federal power. It is an assault on the autonomy of our university and the sacred principle of academic freedom.”

Kluge pointed out that the Trump administration has made similar threats to Harvard and Columbia universities. He added that unless checked, federal overreach will spread to other facets of American life.

“If the federal government can dictate who governs our halls of learning, what will prevent it from bending our courts, our press, or the very fabric of our democracy to its will?” Kluge said.

Frank Dukes, a lecturer in the university’s School of Architecture, gestured to the nearby Memorial to the Enslaved Laborers, which was installed in 2020.

“Descendants of those very people whose names are written on the walls now grace the Grounds as students, staff, faculty, and returning alumni,” Dukes said. “We are going to honor their memory, and be inspired by their resilience, and say: ‘Not here, not now, not ever.’”

Dukes pointed out many ways DEI initiatives have helped students, such as granting attendance to people from rural communities who may have attended schools that did not have advanced placement courses.

As of July 7, just over 700 people had signed the petition. C

Hundreds of people gathered near the Rotunda on Friday, July 4, to protest UVA President Jim Ryan’s forced resignation.

REAL ESTATE NEWS

Slow recovery

Charlottesville pledges to restore new zoning code

BY SEAN TUBBS

The City of Charlottesville has stopped taking any applications for new development while officials figure out how to move forward after its zoning code was thrown out by Judge Claude Worrell on June 30 for a technical error.

On July 1, the city’s Department of Neighborhood Development Services let builders and developers know that all new applications would be paused while the city discusses next steps.

A day later, Charlottesville City Manager Sanders made a public statement.

“It is terribly disappointing that a technical error of filing paperwork could lead to the city not having its development regulations available to the 50,000 residents and property owners in Charlottesville,” Sanders said.

On July 3, the city sent out another message stating that building permits are still being accepted, but everything that involves the new zoning is under review.

“We are carefully assessing how best to proceed in light of the recent court decision and are holding them in queue while we await further legal and procedural clarity,” reads an update.

Charlottesville City Council adopted a new development code in December 2023 that increased residential density across the entire city in an attempt to eliminate zoning that only allowed singlefamily homes across much of Charlottesville. A group filed suit a month later alleging the city had not followed Virginia’s rules on coordinating zoning with infrastructure planning. The case was set to go trial next June but the city’s outside counsel failed to file a document on time.

One of the plaintiffs in the case said he wants zoning rules that are achievable.

“In our filings it was stated that if a valid traffic impact study was conducted as required by law, the aggressive [Residential-B and Residential-C districts] would probably not be possible due to the traffic that would be generated and the impact on state roads,” the resident said in an email.

“Without a study, how do you know what our capacity is with our current road system?” he added.

Under the now-discarded rules, someone who owns land in Residential-B could build as many as 12 units if half of them were rented or sold to households below certain income thresholds.

The owners of 2030 Barracks Rd. had planned to divide their property into two lots and construct 24 units. No traffic study would have been required.

One Charlottesville developer said the result is a mess, and called the missed deadline embarrassing.

“It’s a pointless lawsuit, wasting tons of taxpayer money and slowing down housing that city residents desperately need,” said Charlie Armstrong, vice president of Southern Development.

Armstrong hopes the city will reenact the zoning code and do whatever studies the plaintiffs insist are necessary.

However, Armstrong added that he did not think the slowdown would affect his company. Charlottesville’s design and affordability requirements are making large projects infeasible so they’re working in other communities.

Sanders noted in his statement that he is confident the city will eventually restore the now-discarded rules.

“We have been considering actions on how to proceed with securing a zoning ordinance for the city that is unimpeachable on any front,” Sanders said.

Following Judge Claude Worrell’s voiding of the city’s zoning code, the Department of Neighborhood Development Services says it’s figuring out how best to proceed.

area, and gourmet

and upgraded finishes.Step out to a large deck, perfect for BBQs and outdoor dining. Upstairs, the owner’s suite offers a walk-in closet and spa-like bath with dual vanities. Two additionalbedrooms, a full bath, and laundry complete the bedroom level. The top floor features a cozy loft, ideal for an office or reading nook, plus access to your privaterooftop deck. Enjoy a strong sense of community with access to a clubhouse, gym, playground, dog park, wine socials, and food truck nights. Welcome home! $534,000

Welcome to this beautifully maintained 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath condo nestled in Charlottesville’s desirable Four Seasons community. Ideally locatedjust minutes from the Shops at Stonefield, Route 29, I-64, and UVA, this home offers unmatched convenience to shopping, dining, and commuter routes. Inside, theopen-concept layout effortlessly connects the kitchen, dining, and living areas, creating a bright and airy living space perfect for both relaxing and entertaining.Expansive windows flood the home with natural light throughout. The spacious primary bedroom includes a walk-in closet for generous storage, while the secondbedroom offers flexibility as a guest room, home office, or creative space. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, downsizing, or investing, this home combines comfort,functionality, and a prime location. MLS# 664872 $218,000

The open-concept design features a spacious great room and a gourmet kitchen with upgraded cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and luxury vinyl plank flooring. The oversized island gives plenty of counter space with additional seating. The main floor includes your primary bedroom with a walk-in

MARSAC ST

Go with

HOW LOCAL AGENCIES WORK TO PROTECT OUR

the flow

LONG-TERM WATER SUPPLY BY NATHAN ALDERMAN

The snow fell. The power failed. The plant flooded. The water stopped.

For more than 115 hours across six calendar days last January, the City of Richmond lost clean drinking water. For much of that time, its taps ran dry.

According to reporting from the Richmond Times-Dispatch, three inches of fallen snow and a resulting power outage led to a cascade of system failures at its sole water treatment plant early on January 6, 2025. Richmond couldn’t restore full pressure until early January 9. After time for required safety testing, the city declared its water once more safe to drink on January 11.

As the climate changes and storms intensify, as infrastructure ages, as the Charlottesville area’s population grows, could our own water supply face similar threats?

To answer that, you’ll need to understand where our water comes from, where it goes, and how it gets there.

The land

The water we drink begins as rain, falling straight into our waterways or filtered through the land. We call that land a watershed.

“A watershed is the whole system,” says Leon Szeptycki, a UVA law professor, water expert, and associate director of the university’s environmental institute. “It’s all the land that the water flows off of, and everything associated with the land.” The health of that area affects how well the land stores and filters water—and how it reacts to sudden severe weather.

Water that falls on roofs, streets, and parking lots can’t soak into the ground, Szeptycki notes. It’ll run into storm sewers and get dumped into rivers and streams, potentially worsening flooding.

But rainfall on forests gets partially blocked by tree canopy, and absorbed by trees, other plants, and the ground, reducing the amount of surface water that can contribute to a damaging flood.

“The more intact your watershed is—and by intact, I mean the fewer impervious surfaces there are, the more trees there are, the more healthy landscapes there are—the more water the watershed is going to retain, and the less severe floods are going to be,” Szeptycki says.

Unfortunately for Charlottesville and Albemarle County, local forests appear to be shrinking. In the city, the percentage of land covered by trees has fallen from 45 percent in 2014 to 38 percent in 2023, according to the City of Charlottesville Tree Commission’s State of the Forest report from that year.

Numbers for the county are harder to pin down:

A 2023 report from the Chesapeake Bay Program puts Albemarle’s tree coverage at 68.7 percent in 2017-18, with 1,427 acres of forest lost since 2013-14. The county’s website lists coverage at 72 percent forest,

“The more intact your watershed is ... the more water the watershed is going to retain, and the less severe floods are going to be,” says water expert Leon Szeptycki, who’s also a UVA law professor and associate director of the university’s Environmental Institute. Albemarle County has five major reservoirs, including the South Fork Rivanna Reservoir (previous pages) and the Sugar Hollow Reservoir (above).

24 percent open land, and 3 percent impervious surfaces, but doesn’t provide a date for those figures. A changing climate could make water more precious and floods more frequent. “As the temperature gets warmer,” Szeptycki says, “it increases water demand by natural vegetation, people water their lawns more, farmers irrigate their crops more when it’s warmer, and depending on the particular river or stream, warmer temperatures can put more stress on aquatic ecosystems.”

Charlottesville’s 2023 climate risk and vulnerability assessment predicts that the city’s annual number of days with temperatures 95 degrees Fahrenheit or hotter could rise from 10 in 2020 to 25 in 2050— up from just three days per year in 1950. Heat waves, where those high temperatures exceed the historical average for five or more days, could rise from three to seven per year in the same period.

At the same time, the city’s expecting fiercer storms and floods. Its 2023 report forecasts one extra severe rain or snowstorm per year—rising from 12 to 13—in 2050, compared to 2020. “But in between those more intense storms, there’ll be longer, more intense dry periods,” Szeptycki says. “We have to make sure we have enough water during the longer drier periods. And the best way of dealing with that is storage.”

The water

In 2002, Charlottesville suffered its worst drought since 1930. The reservoirs, full that June, fell to 50 percent capacity. Charlottesville successfully endured mandatory water restrictions to curb demand and slow down the depletion. Before renewed rainfall refilled its supplies that October, the city had less than three months before it ran out of water entirely.

In response, the city, county, and local authorities launched a 10-year water supply planning process, and a decade-plus of subsequent work, to ensure that grim deadline would never recur.

“In the past 20 years, we’ve made significant planning and capital investments to improve our infrastructure and services to the community,” said Westley Kern, communications and outreach coordinator for the Rivanna Water & Sewer Authority. “Our goal, and ultimately our responsibility, is to continually adapt and improve our water systems so that we don’t strain our water supplies.” The agency, founded by the city and county in 1972, collects, stores, and treats the area’s water and wastewater.

Collectively, Rivanna’s reservoirs hold 3.3 billion gallons of water, and their plants can treat a maximum 24 million gallons per day. Even in the worst, deepest drought conditions planners have envisioned, Rivanna says its system can process 15 million gallons of water a day—half again the current daily demand—without endangering the overall supply.

Crozet and Scottsville have their own smaller reservoirs and treatment plants, and the city and surrounding areas’ supply is supplemented by a reservoir at Sugar Hollow. But most of the water flowing from your taps likely comes from one of Rivanna’s two main reservoirs: Ragged Mountain, east and south of the city near I-64, and South Fork Rivanna, ironically north of the city and just east of Seminole Trail.

South Fork is smaller, holding 885 million gallons when full, but it’s fed by a vast 259-square-mile watershed. Ragged Mountain, its big sibling, currently holds around 1.5 billion gallons, after 2014 renovations helped increase its capacity. Further improvements planned to begin this year will add another 700 million gallons—enough for 68 days’ more demand at current rates. But Ragged Mountain’s only fed by a comparatively meager two square miles of watershed.

Big reservoir, small watershed. Small reservoir, big watershed. See the problem? So did local officials. That’s why the $550 million in capital improvements Rivanna has planned over the next five years includes a seven-mile pipeline between South Fork and Ragged Mountain, so that water flowing into the former can be saved up in the latter for a notso-rainy day. “It’s been designed to transfer up to 25 million gallons per day between those two reservoirs, depending upon need,” says Quin Lunsford, executive director of the Albemarle County Service Authority.

Unlike Richmond, Charlottesville and Albemarle’s drinkable water isn’t vulnerable to a single point of failure. The area’s multiple treatment plants have received major upgrades over the past decade, expanding their capacity and replacing older components. Each plant has a backup generator that Rivanna tests monthly at the same levels that an emergency would require.

Quin Lunsford, executive director of the Albemarle County Service Authority, says the ACSA’s job is to make sure “the water that’s delivered to us makes it to our customers safely and reliably.”

The South Rivanna treatment plant, behind the DoubleTree Hotel, currently shoulders the bulk of the system’s needs. In RWSA’s daily report for June 24, it processed more than 9.7 million gallons of water, with a maximum capacity of 10.4 million. According to Kern, a forthcoming permit from the Virginia Department of Health will boost its processing capacity to 12 million gallons a day.

The Observatory treatment plant, near Scott Stadium, cleaned another 1.19 million gallons. Don’t let that figure fool you: It’s capable of treating 10 million gallons a day. A new, larger pipeline that will let it supply the water system with that full capacity is scheduled to break ground in October 2025, with the first of the project’s two phases complete by 2029.

A third plant, North Rivanna, “in use from the early 1970s with minimal upgrades” per a RWSA document, will be decommissioned by 2028. Rivanna will offset its retirement with new pumping stations and other infrastructure to serve the booming developments north of Charlottesville.

Even as Rivanna bolsters its supply, its demand numbers look promising, too. “Although our population is growing,” Szeptycki says, “our municipal water use has remained steady or even, in some places, gone down a little bit because municipal water systems have gotten more efficient.”

A 2002 RWSA presentation lists the area’s daily water demand that year at 10.75 million gallons per day; census data from 2002 shows a combined Charlottesville-Albemarle population of 265,834 people. Today, Rivanna says it delivers 10.21 million gallons of clean, drinkable water on an average day. That’s a 5 percent demand decrease, even though the population’s risen 29 percent to 344,649, according to census data.

You can see conservation’s role in that drop through consumption figures provided by the Albemarle County Service Authority. Total water consumption in their service area grew roughly 7 percent over 22 years, from around 1.7 billion gallons a year in 2002 to just over 1.8 billion in 2024. But in the same period, the number of water connections surged more than 64 percent, from 13,800 to 22,640. And the average amount of water consumed per month by each of those connections dropped 34 percent, from 10,239 gallons to 6,674.

“Some of that is due to better plumbing fixtures, like low-flow toilets and showerheads,” Szeptycki says. “And some of it is due to people watering lawns less. But we’ve really done a pretty good job overall at using less water in cities and towns. And Charlottesville is a great example of that.”

The pipes

Rivanna collects and cleans the water. But the pipes that bring it to your home belong to the Charlottesville Department of Utilities within the city limits, and the Albemarle County Service Authority in the surrounding areas. “We’re charged with making sure that the water that’s delivered to us makes it to our customers safely and reliably,” says ACSA’s Lunsford. With 14,800 accounts to serve in Charlottesville, and nearly 23,000 in Albemarle County, representatives from both agencies say they take that duty seriously.

“We are in an aggressive capital improvement program,” says Lauren Hildebrand, Charlottesville’s director of utilities, “to address our aging infrastructure, which includes water, wastewater, and stormwater.” The city uses 13 criteria, including pressure and quality issues, main or line breaks, and the presence of other construction, to decide which of its rolling tally of 50-odd projects gets top priority. At any given time, Hildebrand says, some 5 percent of the 180 miles in the city’s system is up for repair or replacement.

In the county, Lunsford says ACSA reviews its infrastructure every year to identify what needs fixing most, a project given new urgency by the agency’s awareness of how climate change will affect future weather and water supplies. Its current slate of capital improvement projects includes a new operations center near Avon Street Extended (planned for completion in 2026), replacing outdated fire suppression systems in its facilities, and upgrading its ability to electronically monitor its system, which should help it better identify future infrastructure needs.

When asked about the average age of their systems’ pipes, both Hildebrand and Lunsford say that’s the wrong question. “Age doesn’t necessarily mean it needs to be replaced,” Hindebrand says. “We’ve got a lot of pipes that were installed in the ’20s, but we’ve never had any problem with them.” Depending on the materials used, even pipes nearly a century old can hold up just fine. “Age is a component,” says Lunsford. “We’re looking at other factors. Have there been breaks in a certain area with a certain material component in a certain soil? Those are things that we evaluate annually, and we do our best to proactively replace areas that may start to deteriorate more quickly than others.”

Both systems actively monitor changes in pressure that might indicate problems in their systems, and both keep crews handy around the clock to fix breaks when they happen. When severe weather approaches, Lunsford says, ACSA checks its whole system to ensure it’s ready, from the fuel levels in its generators to the sharpness of its chainsaw blades.

Hildebrand has served as director of utilities in the city for 18 years, and says that regular maintenance has dramatically cut the number of outages and emergency repairs. “When I first got here, we had a lot of breakages,” she says. “Those kinds of calls just don’t happen anymore. We get a few, but we don’t get as many as we used to.” Data provided by the city backs this up, showing annual water main breaks dropping from 154 in 2010 to 67 in 2024.

“Our water supply is incredibly clean,” Lunsford says. “But it’s something that we pay very close attention to, because we want to make sure that it stays that way.

LUXURY BOUTIQUE INN

SURROUNDED BY HISTORY

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

SATURDAY 7/12

MOUTH FROM THE SOUTH

Virginia’s own Nick Smith returns bigger on his New South Tour. The Kents Store native— who’s become one of Nashville’s most modern country artists—has developed a following for his catchy songs that combine pop, R&B, and country sensibilities with the flashing lights and high energy of city living. This genre-collapsing performer covers topics relating to life, love, and liberty with a sound that’s likely to grace commercials for big trucks and cold beers in the near future. $30–35, 8pm. The Jefferson Theater, 110 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. jeffersontheater.com

CULTURE TO-DO LIST

Wednesday 7/9

music

Beleza Duo. An evening of funkalicious samba soul—music that moves you from the inside out— with Madeline Holly-Sales on vocals and keys, and Berto Sales on guitar, voice, and loops. Free, 7pm. The Bebedero, 201 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thebebedero.com

Mood Ring: Queer and Trans Open Mic Night. Come share original music. Mic, speakers, and keyboard provided, please bring your other instruments. Free, 7pm. Firefly, 1304 E. Market St. fireflycville.com

Open Mic Night. Mic check to all musicians, poets, and everyone in between. All ages welcome. Free, 9pm. Holly’s Diner, 1221 E. Market St. The Wavelength. Vintage rock, blues, and original tunes for your mid-week music boost. Free, 6:30pm. The Whiskey Jar, 227 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thewhiskeyjarcville.com

dance

Weekly Swing Dance. Beginner-friendly swing dance lessons teaching the Lindy Hop, Charleston, Balboa, and blues. No partner needed. Stay for social dancing after the class. $10, 7pm. The Front Porch , 221 E. Water St. frontporchcville.com

stage

The Winter’s Tale. Discover Shakespeare’s tale of jealousy and redemption. $43–78, 7:30pm. American Shakespeare Center, 10 S. Market St., Staunton. Staunton.http://www.americanshakespearecenter.com

words

Publishing in the Renaissance: Christophe Plantin’s Business Strategy. A Rare Book School

lecture exploring publishing risk during the Renaissance and the Reformation, with Johns Hopkins University research fellow Mark McConnell. Free, 5:30pm. Harrison Auditorium of the Albert and Shirley Small Special Collections Library, 170 McCormick Rd. rarebookschool.org

classes

Wickedly Fun Wednesdays. This week’s activity: Create your own manga. For teens ages 11–18. Materials and snacks provided. Registration required. Free, 4:30pm. Central Library, 201 E. Market St. jmrl.org etc.

Dürty Karaoke. Dive bar karaoke for your hump days. Free, 8:30pm. Dürty Nelly’s, 2200 Jefferson Park Ave. durtynellyscville.com

Rapture Karaoke. The longest-running karaoke event in town. Hosted by Jenn DeVille. Free, 9pm. Rapture, 303 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. rapturerestaurant.com

Thursday 7/10

music

Berto & Vincent. Lively flamenco rumba with Latin and Cuban influences. Free, 7pm. The Bebedero, 201 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thebebedero.com

Open Mic Night. Music, singing, poetry, spoken word. Everyone is welcome to participate. Hosted by Jordan Redifer and Mark Douglas, with guitars on hand to accompany or play along. Free, 7pm. The Batesville Market, 6624 Plank Rd., Batesville. batesvillemarket.com

The Currys. Local folk-rock family band with heartthrob sensibility. Free, 7pm. Dürty Nelly’s, 2200 Jefferson Park Ave. durtynellyscville.com

FRIDAY 7/11 THROUGH SUNDAY 7/13

OPERETTA TREASURE

Charlottesville Opera’s second summer production, The Pirates of Penzance, unfolds in a pitch-perfect comedy of errors featuring sentimental swashbucklers, ineffectual police officers, and deeply dutiful young lovers. A technicality threatens to upend Frederic’s newfound freedom, catching the young man in a tug of war of loyalties that sets him both at odds and in league with the titular crew of privateers. Hilarity unfolds in a libretto penned by W.S. Gilbert, accompanied by memorable music by Arthur Sullivan. $15–85, times vary. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net

stage

Sense & Sensibility Experience the elegance and wit of Jane Austen’s classic. $33–68, 7:30pm. Blackfriars Playhouse, 10 S. Market St., Staunton. americanshakespearecenter.com

Young Frankenstein and Coriolanus. The Voyages Season soars into summer with a teen-show double-header featuring Mel Brooks’ musical and Shakespeare’s tragedy. $16–20, 7:30pm. Live Arts, 123 E. Water St. livearts.org words

Artists in Conversation: Nikki Painter + Lauren Rice. A special conversation between exhibiting artist Nikki Painter and fellow artist Lauren Rice, discussing Painter’s current exhibition “Pattern Gardens.” Registration required. Free, 5:30pm. Second Street Gallery, 115 Second St. SE. secondstreetgallery.org

classes

Tots & Dots. A visual literacy program engaging learners and their caregivers in looking at and talking about art, followed by a fun hands-on activity. For children ages 6 months to 4 years. Registration required. Free, 10am. Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection of UVA, 400 Worrell Dr. kluge-ruhe.org

etc.

Brewery Puzzle Hunt. An escape room meets a pub crawl. Visit the Preston Avenue breweries, crack codes, unravel riddles, and sample Charlottesville’s best brews. Players get $1-off pints at each brewery. $15, noon. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. puzzledbee.com

Friday 7/11 music

Brandon Wayne & His Lonesome Drifters. Charlottesville’s fastest rising honky-tonk band brings its swingin’ hillbilly boogie and rockabilly sounds to the stage at WTJU’s Offbeat Roadhouse—live in studio and streaming on WTJU’s YouTube channel. Free, 8pm. WTJU 91.1 FM, 2244 Ivy Rd. wtju.net

Dave Goodrich. A guitarist and singer-songwriter brings a repertoire of blues, rock, pop, Motown, and original music. Free, 5pm. DuCard Vineyards, 40 Gibson Hollow Ln., Etlan. ducardvineyards.com

Fantastic Cat. Folk rock, country, Americana, and good old rock ‘n’ roll from four different songwriters who joined forces to form a single band. $26–30, 8pm. The Southern Café & Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com

Fridays After Five: The Barons. An alternative band with a repertoire including various sounds ranging from heavy-hitting indie rock to a lighter fair of introspective love songs. With Ark of Mark. Free, 5:30pm. Ting Pavilion, 700 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. tingpavilion.com

Ken Farmer and the Authenticators. Fresh originals and vintage covers rooted in classic blues, country, and rock. Free, 7pm. Dürty Nelly’s, 2200 Jefferson Park Ave. durtynellyscville.com

Local Vocals. An eclectic acoustic trio that relies heavily on tight three-part harmonies performs a wide variety of classic rock, familiar modern selections, and unplugged versions of pop and rock. Free, 6pm. Glass House Winery, 5898 Free Union Rd., Free Union. glasshousewinery.com

Metal Mayhem. Another amazing night of moshpit madness with some high energy skate punk and metal. Featuring Inconsolable, The Get Off, and Lagoon. Free, 7pm. Ace Biscuit & Barbecue, 600 Concord Ave. acebbq.com

Paxton Henderson Trio. Trio fronted by a local rock guitarist and singer-songwriter with techniques drawn from multiple genres. Free, 5:30pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potterscraftcider.com

Ron Gentry. End your week on a high note. Gentry is an HH original with a great voice and classic tunes. Free, 5:30pm. Hardware Hills Vineyard, 5199 W. River Rd., Scottsville. hardwarehills.com

dance

Can’t Feel My Face 2010s Dance Party. Fire DJs and 2010s visuals transport you back to the decade defined by memes and selfies—a time only four to 14 years gone but feels like 40 years ago. Ages 18+. $20–25, 9pm. The Jefferson Theater, 110 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. jeffersontheater.com

stage

Charlottesville Opera Presents: The Pirates of Penzance An engaging comedy of misunderstandings, exaggerated loyalties, and tender-hearted pirates. Gilbert and Sullivan’s show is perfect for the whole family. $15–85, 7pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net

The Heart Sellers. Pulitzer Prize finalist Lloyd Suh’s sweet, funny, and deeply moving play highlights the experiences of two 20-something immigrant women. $15–40, 7:30pm. Drama Building at UVA, 109 Culbreth Rd. virginiatheatrefestival.org

The Winter’s Tale See listing for Wednesday, July 9. $43–78, 7:30pm. American Shakespeare Center, 10 S. Market St., Staunton. american shakespearecenter.com

Young Frankenstein and Coriolanus. See listing for Thursday, July 10. $16-20, 7:30pm. Live Arts, 123 E. Water St. livearts.org words

Open Mic for Emerging Musicians and Writers. An open mic for up-and-coming musicians and writers performing their music, poetry, and short stories. Arrive 15 minutes early for sign ups. Free, 7pm. New Dominion Bookshop, 404 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. newdominionbookshop.com etc.

Brewery Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Thursday, July 10. $15, noon. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. puzzledbee.com

Trivia with Olivia. Get the weekend started with beers and trivia. Free, 6pm. SuperFly Brewing Co., 943 Preston Ave. superflybrewing.com

Saturday 7/12 music

Colin Cutler. Appalachian old-time, blues, gospel, country, and rock ’n’ roll. Free, 5:30pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potters craftcider.com

Josh Mayo. An up-close-and-personal show providing original rock and classic covers. Free, 10pm. The Bebedero, 201 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thebebedero.com

Music in the Gardens: Jen Tal Band. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the covered pavilion or spread a blanket on the lawn and hear a performance weaving together elements of soul, R&B, and jazz. $5–10, 6pm. The Quarry Gardens at Schuyler, 1643 Salem Rd., Schuyler. victoryhallopera.org

National Public Rodeo. Five-piece original Americana band out of Richmond. Free, 7pm. Dürty Nelly’s, 2200 Jefferson Park Ave. durtynellyscville.com

Nick Smith. This Kents Store, Virginia native who’s Nashville’s most modern country artist brings their New South Tour to town. $30–35, 8pm. The Jefferson Theater, 110 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. jeffersontheater.com

Porch Dogs. Rock, pop, oldies, country. You name it, they play it. Come bark with the Dogs. Free, 12:30pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwoodfarmandwinery.com

STAGES CULTURE

Fantastic Cat

As a cynical 50-something who is more likely to win the Mega Millions than be impressed by a folk rock supergroup that he’s never listened to before, I have to admit I was quickly won over by Fantastic Cat.

I was predisposed to poo-poo whatever the band was serving up. I disliked the dopey name (which, upon deeper consideration, is no more dumb or irritating than the moniker of any other band formed in this decade) and anything recorded after the mid-1970s considered to be folk rock or even folk-adjacent. Yet, Fantastic Cat immediately endeared itself to me.

In a genre so wrapped up in pretending to be unpretentious by way of beard length, and overrun with the type of annoying asshole with an acoustic guitar who ruined every party you went to in college—Fantastic Cat does not take itself seriously. At all.

The band has the best press release I can remember reading, which claims that because someone in the group forgot to press record, FC made a lost album capturing “a bewildering blend of step-dad rock and in-law country destined to solidify their status as your least favorite songwriter’s favorite songwriters.” The band’s catchy songs are smart without

going full nerd, and Americana without that outdated foot-stompin’ “hey ho” nonsense made to sound like farmers cutting loose in a colonial tavern.

No, this group of four singing multi-instrumentalists who deftly trade off lead vocal duties—and switch around on guitars, bass, and drums—channels the best aspects of the genre through a Dylanesque lens that touches on Springsteen and Simon & Garfunkel. Overall, the result is elevated by irrepressible lyrical humor and earnest emotional honesty.

The Southern Café & Music Hall | 7/11

Starry Nights: The Significant Others. A rock band that serves up a potent party cocktail that blends an eclectic list of songs, a love of playing music with each other, and a healthy pour of incredible live energy. $15–125, 5:30pm. Veritas Vineyards and Winery, 151 Veritas Ln., Afton. veritaswines.com

Stillhouse Sound. Covering soulful rock classics and modern hits. Free, 5pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwoodfarmand winery.com

The Currys. A fantastic musical smorgasbord of rock, Americana, folk, and country. Free, 5pm. Glass House Winery, 5898 Free Union Rd., Free Union. glasshousewinery.com

Wavelength Trio. Vintage rock, blues, jazz, and original music. Free, 1pm. Fallen Tree Vineyard and Farm, 4593 Clark Rd., Crozet. fallentreevineyard.com

Both the debut album, The Very Best of Fantastic Cat (2022), and its follow up, Now That’s What I Call Fantastic Cat (2024), are overflowing with well-written, heartfelt tracks that don’t look back in a cloying retro way—an enviable accomplishment for folk-related music in this century. “So Glad You Made It” and “Oh Man!” from the latter collection are all you need to hear the Fantastic talent in full. Don’t wait to listen to them shine in person—at least not as long as the band coyly waits for Rock & Roll Hall of Fame eligibility, as per the clock counting down the days on its website: a little more than 22 years to go.

—CM Gorey

White Denim. A freewheeling American rock ‘n’ roll band formed in Austin, Texas in 2006. $25, 8pm. The Southern Café & Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com

stage

Charlottesville Opera Presents: The Pirates of Penzance. See listing for Friday, July 11. $15–85, 2pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net

Sense & Sensibility. See listing for Thursday, July 10. $33–68, 7:30pm. Blackfriars Playhouse, 10 S. Market St., Staunton. americanshakespeare center.com

The Heart Sellers. See listing for Friday, July 11. $15–40, 7:30pm. Drama Building at UVA, 109 Culbreth Rd. virginiatheatrefestival.org

SUMMER MOVIE SERIES

Join us this summer each Wednesday as we present a Pay What You Will Family Film Series!

Wednesdays thru JULY at 10:00 AM & 1:00 PM

WAYNE ON MAIN CONCERT Featuring: Matt Johnson

Join us under the Wayne Theatre marquis! Admission is Pay What You Will. JULY 30 at 6:00 PM

Studio Wayne IMPROVISATOR IMPROV SHOW

Join the Studio Wayne Improvisators on our Main Stage for another hilarious night of improv. AUGUST 1 at 8:00 PM

50 YEARS OF LIVING 50 YEARS OF LIVING BETTER, LONGER. BETTER, LONGER. Reach your goals and explore opportunities as you age with JABA.

JABA empowers adults 60+, adults with disabilities, and caregivers with meaningful opportunities for social, health and wellness, and caregiving support. With 50 years as the leading nonprofit for older adults, JABA is equipped to support you throughout your aging journey. Prepare for your future, enjoy your present, and appreciate your past at JABA.

Counseling Delicious Meals Health Education & Fitness And More!

TO-DO LIST

THROUGH SUNDAY 7/20

PROFIT AND LOSS STATEMENTS

Virginia Theatre Festival keeps rolling with The Heart Sellers, a deeply moving play by Pulitzer Prize finalist Lloyd Suh. Set in 1973 in the wake of the Hart–Celler Act’s abolition of immigration quotas in America, two 20-something immigrant women meet by chance in a grocery store on Thanksgiving night. The women spend an evening bonding over what they’ve left behind, and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead in a new country. $15–40, times vary. Helms Theatre, 109 Culbreth Rd. virginiatheatrefestival.org

Sunday 7/13

music

See listing for Wednesday, July 9. $43–78, 2pm. American Shakespeare Center, 10 S. Market St., Staunton. americanshakespeare

Coriolanus. See listing for Thursday, July 10. $16–20, 7:30pm. Live Arts,

Charlottesville Opera Presents: The Pirates of Penzance. See listing for Friday, July 11. $15–85, 2pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net

Henley & Lou. A blend of heart and soul music to lift your spirits and get you moving. Free, noon. Keswick Vineyards, 1575 Keswick Winery Dr., Keswick. keswickvineyards.com

Mirabelle and Matty. The Metcalfe father-anddaughter duo perform a range of engaging music. Free, 2pm. Glass House Winery, 5898 Free Union Rd., Free Union. glasshousewinery.com

Mo & Mary Mac. Talented singer-songwriters provide soulful melodies and enchanting harmonies. Free, 2pm. DuCard Vineyards, 40 Gibson Hollow Ln., Etlan. ducardvineyards.com

Music Open Mic. Two songs or 10 minutes per performer, whichever comes first. Musicians of all ages welcome. P.A. and microphone provided. Hosted by Theocles. Free, 5pm. The Southern Café & Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com

Second Sunday Bluegrass Jam. The musicians gather in a circle to jam and the audience sneaks a spot to sit or stand to watch from the perimeter. Show up with instruments if you have them. Otherwise, just show up. Free, 2pm. Batesville Market, 6624 Plank Rd., Batesville. batesvillemarket.com

The Bluegrass Destroyers Quintet. A five-piece string band plays a varied and vast repertoire of traditional bluegrass, new grass, originals, and covers. Free, 3pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potterscraftcider.com

The Heart Sellers. See listing for Friday, July 11. $15–40, 2pm. Drama Building at UVA, 109 Culbreth Rd. virginiatheatrefestival.org

The Winter’s Tale See listing for Wednesday, July 9. $43–78, 2pm. American Shakespeare Center, 10 S. Market St., Staunton. americanshakespeare center.com

words

Fresh Stories Served Hot. TwoTellersTelling share adventures and anecdotes for all, weaving narratives that transport listeners to different worlds, evoke a range of emotions, and leave lasting impressions. Pay what you can, 3pm. Susan Berres, 710 Blenheim Ave. freshstoriesservedhot.org etc.

Bastille Day Celebration. Celebrate Bastille Day with French wine, live French jazz by Duo Bohème, pétanque, and curated picnic baskets. Free, 11am–5pm. Michael Shaps Winery, 1650 Harris Creek Rd. virginiawineworks.com

Beyond the Book Karoake. Come make some new friends and rad memories while belting out some melodies. The hosts can cue up anything found on YouTube, so get weird with it. Free, 7:30pm. The Southern Café & Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com

Brewery Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Thursday, July 10. $15, noon. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. puzzledbee.com

Music Bingo. Listen to your favorite music, match the songs to the titles on your music bingo cards, and win great prizes. Fun for the whole family. Free, 2pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. puzzledbee.com

Monday 7/14

etc.

Comedy Open Mic. Showcase your talent, try out new material, and take in the best local comedy that Charlottesville has to offer. Hosted by Chris Alan. Ages 18+. Free, 7pm. The Southern Café & Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com

Drop-In Mondays for Teens. This week’s activity: Gaming with PS5. For ages 11–18. Snacks provided. Registration requested but not required. Free, 1–2:30. Central Library, 201 E. Market St. jmrl.org

Tuesday 7/15

music

BRIMS. Live Irish music jam with the Blue Ridge Irish Music School. Free, 6:30pm. Dürty Nelly’s, 2200 Jefferson Park Ave. durtynellyscville.com

Vincent Zorn. Lively flamenco rumba with a unique percussive technique that incorporates a diverse range of strumming styles, rhythms, and taps. Free, 7pm. The Bebedero, 201 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thebebedero.com

stage

The Heart Sellers See listing for Friday, July 11. $15–40, 7:30pm. Drama Building at UVA, 109 Culbreth Rd. virginiatheatrefestival.org

\etc.

Geeks Who Drink Trivia. Good trivia, good times. Teams of two to six people compete to win prizes like gift certificates and pint glasses, plus bragging rights. Free, 7pm. Firefly, 1304 E. Market St. fireflycville.com

Kill the Jockey A VAFF screening of an unforgettable thriller that melds surrealism, escape, and romance against an evocative retro-aesthetic and a pop-disco soundtrack. $11–13, 7pm. Violet Crown Charlottesville, 200 W. Main St. charlottesville. violetcrown.com

Solo and steady

Kai Crowe-Getty of Lord Nelson goes troubadour BY SHEA GIBBS

Kai Crowe-Getty says Lord Nelson, one of Charlottesville’s most successful party-rock bands over the last 10 years, isn’t breaking up. But the group he fronts isn’t so much together, either.

“Lord Nelson has been hitting the road hard for the last decade, and that’s been a wonderful experience,” Crowe-Getty says.

“This is the first time in a decade for me not to know what’s around the next corner.”

Two lords of Nelson, guitarist Calloway Jones and bassist Niko Cvetanovich, have found success with their metal outfit, Üga Büga, and will start a tour of Japan in mid-August.

Crowe-Getty, going in the opposite amplification direction, released a solo album of contemplative Americana tracks on June 27.

The Wreckage, featuring 10 new songs from Crowe-Getty, takes a more thoughtful approach than the rocker has employed in the past. The record offers a dreamy, wistful take—and an opportunity for Crowe-Getty to tell a more personal story. “Lord Nelson is Saturday night, and this stuff is Sunday morning,” he says.

The singer-songwriter began working on the tracks before the COVID-19 pandemic—at the same time that Lord Nelson was putting together its 2022 LP, Transmission Crowe-Getty started recording The Wreckage alongside his bandmates, working with multiple crossover studio players, but wasn’t entirely sure what direction the final project would take.

The full band went back on the road after the pandemic subsided, but it “got to a point for Lord Nelson to go in different directions,” Crowe-Getty says.

The balladeer says the album coming out of his solo soul-searching isn’t exactly autobiographical, but it is introspective. The characters dotting The Wreckage’s lyrical universe—many inspired by folks Crowe-Getty’s known around Nelson County—suffer hardship, deal with loss, and trade in nostalgia.

In the end, though, Crowe-Getty intends the album to be hopeful.

“There is much more of me in this project than anything else I have done,” he says. “It’s a heavier album, but there are a lot of high notes. It has an optimistic lean.”

Crowe-Getty says the solo creative process was more difficult than creating the loud rock ‘n’ roll that’s long been Lord Nelson’s calling card. Songwriting took longer, and required him to “trust himself more” than he had in the past.

Crowe-Getty and friends of the Lord Nelson program recorded some of the songs on the album at White Star Sound in Louisa (a veritable mecca for local and regional folk and Americana acts). Others were tracked at Monkeyclaus Recording Studio in Roseland, and still more were laid down in Nashville with Sons of Bill’s Sam Wilson—the idea was to create a “big tent” of support for The Wreckage

For Crowe-Getty, it will be fun to celebrate a new chapter when he takes these songs live. “It’ll be all my stuff, but I might throw a Lord Nelson song in here or there,” he says. “It’s a blurry line; I’m still trying to see what fits in what context.” And Lord Nelson fans will have a chance to see the softer side of Crowe-Getty—indeed, his goal on The Wreckage is to contrast his “rocking, rowdy history.”

“I’m mining a lot of things from my own life that I think resonate,” he says.

Take “Heavy as Heaven,” a song CroweGetty wrote in direct response to his time on the road with Lord Nelson. He says he played

a stretch of unfulfilling shows, and was feeling “broken and disconnected from the world.” He sat down at his piano and wrote: “You say you seen the good ones all go first, leaving us shufflin’ around this dirt. / We’re broken and we’re damaged and we’re cursed, but the best of us can push against the worst.”

Still a Nelson County resident after all these years, Crowe-Getty’s been writing songs since he was in middle school. He’s supported artists like Joe Pug, Chuck Regan, Andrew Combs, and Erin Rea over the course of his career. He’s a film editor and producer in his downtime, and directed every video associated with The Wreckage

That kind of hustle has been a fact of life for each member of Lord Nelson over the past decade, Crowe-Getty says. It’s what it takes to tour exhaustively and pursue your dreams.

“We’ve all made some tough sacrifices,” he says. “It’s really difficult to make a living as a blue collar band playing original music … I don’t know what it will look like [going forward], but I am very much focused on this right now.”

The Run Club. Do a 5K run, then drink beer. $1-off pints for runners. Free, 6pm. Decipher Brewing, 1740 Broadway St. “Lord Nelson is Saturday night, and this stuff is Sunday morning.”

Kai Crowe-Getty’s debut solo album, The Wreckage, is a contemplative departure from his work with Lord Nelson.

THE WINE DOWN

WHAT’S DELISH AT LOCAL WINERIES?

53RD WINERY AND VINEYARD

A note from Winegrower and Owner, Dave Drillock

We have LOTS of fun events happening in July, and cannot wait to celebrate these warm summer days with you. Come cool off with a glass of wine! We are open 11-5:00 daily with lots of fun, live music, food trucks and (most importantly) wine! You can find tickets for our various ticketed events on tock!

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

For more details, please check our website at www.53rdwinery.com or call us at 540-894-1536. We look forward to welcoming you to the winery, and we truly appreciate your business and support.

July 12th: Live music with Matt Johnson and a First Taste: A Red Wine Preview (advanced ticket purchase required)

July 19th: Live music with Jefferson Thomas and the Blue Ridge Pizza Co. Food Truck

July 20th: Live music with Luke Bobbitt and Not Your Mamma’s Food Truck

July 25th: Cheers to 10 years anniversary party! Live music and Food trucks (advanced ticket purchase required)

July 26th: Live music with Mike Proffitt and a First Taste: A Red Wine Preview (advanced ticket purchase required)

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

DUCARD VINEYARDS

2024 Pet gNat

Fun, with fizz! This wilder version of sparkling wine is crisp, refreshing, full of citrus, and yeasty. We’ve given the name a tongue-in-cheek twist and are sure it’s going to be your summertime favorite!

We are open 7 days a week throughout the month of January, with live music every weekend! Make sure to keep an eye on our website and social media pages for the most up to date listings of our upcoming artists.

Fridays- Friday Night Out! Every Friday night through the summer

we feature half price wine flights, live music, food for sale, and grills available for use until 8:00pm.

Weekends- Live music all weekend long! Check out our lineup on our website!

July 12th: Lobster Palooza! Come out to DuCard Vineyards for the Second Annual LobsterPalooza! Live music by Smokin’ Trout (2-5pm) and Scuffletown (6-9pm) plus delicious lobster eats from Cousins Maine Lobster food truck. There’s something for everyone, so come join the fun! Tickets are $12 in advance and $20 at the door. Purchase your tickets at www. DuCardVineyards.com.

Open daily Mon-Thurs. 12-5 pm Fri. 12-9 pm Sat/Sun. 12-6 pm

40 Gibson Hollow Ln Etlan, VA 22719 (540) 923-4206 www.ducardvineyards.com

EASTWOOD FARM AND WINERY

Summer at the Winery

In addition to our normal menus, enjoy our 2024 Petit Manseng, 2024 Viognier or the delicious 2024 Petit Rosé paired with blueberry specials in the air-conditioned tasting room all summer including our popular Blueberry Flatbread, Baked Brie, & our re-imagined Eastwood Salad featuring blueberries, toasted pecans, blue cheese tossed with fresh baby spring mix and our scratch-made pear vinaigrette! We will also be featuring our seasonal Blueberry Wheat Ale, Blueberry Cider, and Blueberry Lemonade Wine Slushies and we have teamed up with SugarBear Ice Cream to bring back the fan favorite, Blueberry Sunshine, lemon ice cream swirled with blueberry coulis! It’s a sweet treat you won’t want to miss!

Upcoming at the Winery:

Virginia Oyster & Wine Celebration | Every Friday

July-August

Our Virginia Oyster & Wine Celebration is back every Friday night! The oysters are prepared by Salty Bottom Blue. Enjoy them in a relaxed, fun atmosphere with live music from 5-8pm on the stage in our tasting room.

Meritage Blending Workshop, July 16

Join us for a hands-on workshop where you get to be the winemaker! You’ll sit down to a table with beakers and flasks, and our winemaking team will walk you through the steps of

making a great blend. Plus, there is some friendly competition involved and one of the team’s blends will be deemed the winner! Ticketed Event - Reserve Your Spot On Our Website

Summer Maker’s Market & Blueberry Food and Beverage Celebration, July 20

Summer is Blueberry Season at Eastwood! Join us Sunday, July 2o for free tastings, including of our blueberry wheat beer and blueberry cider as well as a local maker’s market. In addition to the popular blueberry lemonade wine slushies for adults, we will also be featuring a special nonalcoholic blueberry slushee for the kids (for one day only)! Eastwood’s full menu will also be available, including many delectable blueberry-inspired specials.  Open 12-5 PM, with live music 1-4 PM.

Music Bingo | Sunday, July 13 and July 27

Everyone loves singing along with their favorite songs and who doesn’t love a competitive game of Bingo? Music Bingo brings together the best of both worlds for a high energy game that is fun for everyone. Simply listen to the music, match the songs to the titles on your music bingo cards, and win great prizes! Free to play

Paint & Sip | Wednesday, July 9 and Sunday, July 27

Grab a glass of wine (or your favorite drink!) and let your creativity flow in our relaxed and fun Paint & Sip classes. Whether you’re an experienced artist or a first-time painter, the talented instructors of Blue Ridge Brushes will walk you through the painting process as you create your own masterpiece. Ticketed EventsReserve Your Spot On Our Website

COMING IN AUGUST:

Chef Tasting Series is Back! |

Wednesday, August 13

Join us at Eastwood for an opportunity to participate in an intimate wine tasting and food pairing event. You will be greeted with a glass of our gold medalwinning Blanc de Blancs. Once everyone is seated, Athena Eastwood and Chef Andrew Partridge will guide guests through a tasting of four of our wines each paired with small plates curated by Chef Andrew and our culinary team. We hope you will join us for this fun and educational experience. This is a ticketed event and seating is limited. Reserve your spot on our website!  The next in the series will be a full course chef dinner on Wednesday, October 8.

MUSIC AT EASTWOOD THIS MONTH!

Join us for the popular Eastwood After Dark featuring upbeat, danceable music on Saturday nights from 5-8pm (in addition to our more mellow Saturday afternoon music program). Eastwood also hosts a range of live performances by talented local and regional musicians every Thursday and Friday night. See the Winery Calendar on our website for details.

Every Thursday: Live Music 5-8PM or Music Bingo 6-8PM

Thursday “Thank You” Community Day at Eastwood—$5 Taps (Beer & Cider)

Every Friday: Live Music 5-8PM Low-Country Shrimp Boil 5-8PM

Every Saturday: Live Music 12:303:30PM + Eastwood After Dark with Live Music 5-8PM

Every Sunday: Music Bingo, Paint & Sip, Maker’s Market or Live Music (See the Winery Calendar on our

website for details.)

What about the kids?

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

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

Winery Hours: Sunday-Wednesday (12-5 PM); Thursday-Saturday (12-8 PM)

We look forward to welcoming you to our cozy tasting room, seven days a week. Join us for award-winning wines, beer, and cider, as well as a delicious seasonal menu by Chef Andrew Partridge that is perfect for lunch or dinner. Delight in lounging on our enclosed & heated veranda with a glass of our gold medal 2022 Meritage Reserve. Or, stay inside and enjoy live music with a seasonal toasty flatbread or our scrumptious Cast Iron Baked Brie. Escape to Virginia Wine Country, only five miles from Downtown Charlottesville. Open year-round, seven days a week.

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

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

HARDWARE HILLS VINEYARD

River Bend White

One of our best selling whites!  A balanced 50/50 blend of our estate grow Vidal Blanc and Seyval Blanc.  With multiple fruit characteristics and notable layered flavors of ripe citrus and pear. Approachable and bright delivering a rounded mouthfeel and a brisk but silky finish.  Great for porch sipping or pairing with light pasta dishes, fish, and chicken.

Have YOU seen our social media posts?  Trending videos on all platforms... check us out!

Our event venue is now complete and ready for your special event!  Contact us at eventteam@ hardwarehills.com for details and scheduling a tour!

NEW HOURS!

Thursday - Saturday  12 - 8 Sunday 12 - 5

July 17th – Music Bingo with Sara, win prizes and sing along! 6:30-8:30

July 24th – Trivia Night! Grab your dream team and Heat for the Hills for a fun evening of trivia, wine, and fun!  St. Paddy’s themed trivia this month... sure to tease your brain and get you laughing. Please RSVP so we know you’re coming.

Fridays- Live music! Check our website for our rotating artists 5199 W River Rd, Scottsville, VA  434.286.4710 • www.hardwarehills.com

KESWICK VINEYARDS

Summer is in full swing at Keswick Vineyards, and we are pouring up good times all month long!

Wine Down Wednesdays

Join us every Wednesday evenings from 5-8:30PM for Wine Down Wednesday! Soak in the summer breeze with live music on our outdoor stage, sip your favorite Keswick wines, and come early for our happy hour from 5-6!!

Saturday Live Music Series

Every Saturday from 12-4PM, we bring nothing but good vibes with a different live music performance on the lawn! Pack a picnic, order from our food truck, bring your crew, (and your pups!), and unwind with us under the Virginia sun!

Comedy Night - Friday, July 18th at 7:30PM

Laughter paired with wine? What’s not to love! Join us for a special Comedy Night featuring Shane Smith and Mark Brady. They will

surely leave you rolling!

Corvette Club - Saturday, July 19th at 12PM

After you have shared a bunch of laughs, come back a day later and check out some stunning cars all the while having your favorite Keswick wines both times!

Sip, Savor, and Stay a while.

- Your Keswick Vineyards family.

Weekends - Live Music from 12-4 pm (check out our website for the schedule!)

Hours:

Monday- Sunday from 10 am – 5 pm

1575 Keswick Winery Drive Keswick, Virginia 22947

Tasting Room: (434) 244-3341 ext 105 tastingroom@keswickvineyards.com www.keswickvineyards.com

PRINCE MICHEL VINEYARDS

During the month of July, celebrate summer with Prince Michel’s Dry Rosé!

Our American Dry Rosé is the ultimate warm-weather wine— crisp, fruity, and refreshingly off-dry. Light-bodied with a lively personality, it unveils bright notes of strawberry, cherry, and melon, rounded with subtle hints of green apple. Its vibrant acidity and clean finish make it the perfect sip for sunny days and balmy evenings. Whether you’re enjoying a fresh garden salad, grilled chicken, or picnic fare, this Rosé pairs beautifully with all your summer Decadence Chocolate or a refreshing wine slushie for a delightful twist.  We have

of darker black fruits. A flavorful fruit palate: an array of fresh-picked raspberries.  Nice acidity, light to medium bodied with a tasty finish that lingers. Perfect for summer get-togethers and impromptu light fare meals.

July Hours: Friday 12pm to Sunset; Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Thursday 12pm to 6pm.

Until August 31 - Exhibition of artwork by Noreene Janus.

July 11 - Book World Meets Wine World at 5:30pm: Jeffrey Dale Lofton will read from his book Red Clay Suzie.

July 12 - Arts & Vines from 12:00pm until 6:00pm. Artisan market with Rachana Ink Art (watercolors), Jason Goldman (wood), and Yuval Zack (native plants).

July 12 - Pop-up: Chef Alex Lepro from 12:00pm until 6:00pm.

July 17 - Sip & Learn at 5pm: The Early German Settlers of Madison County by Cathi Clore Frost.

with a delicious pairing menu by Chef Andrew Partridge and Cory Partridge.

The Virginia Wine Collective is a new wine production facility in Charlottesville, Virginia. Eastwood designed the space to include nine winemaker suites off the main production area. The suites provide a space where independent winemakers can anchor a license and make their wines. The Virginia Wine Collective has been designed to reduce the costs associated with independent winemaking, and thereby support further innovation and talent in the Monticello AVA.

Upcoming at the Collective:

Winemaker Pop-Ups | Most Fridays

Enjoy free samples and tour the facility with some of our independent winemakers on Fridays in July and August! Check the website as we will be adding more dates.

July 11:  Erin and Sandy Robertson /Dogwood & Thistle Wines

something to offer for every palate!

At Prince Michel Indulge in a spectrum of wines, from luxurious craft picks such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Manseng, to distinctive options like our Sweet White Reserve from our Rapidan River series. Don’t miss our crowd-favorite Discover Prince Michel Vineyard and Winery, an iconic East Coast estate. Family and pet-friendly, it’s one of the oldest and largest wineries in the Commonwealth.  Also, home to Tap 29 Brew Pub, serving local craft brews and delicious pub-style food seven days a week.

Located in the heart of Virginia Wine Country, our elegant winery on Route 29 between Charlottesville and Washington DC offers wine tastings, tours, shopping, and scenic picnic spots daily from 11am.

Open 7 days a Week at 11 a.m.

Weekly Events:

Live Music every Friday–Sunday (music lineup at princemichel.com)

Monday Night Trivia | 6–7:30 p.m.

Tuesday Beer & Wings Specials | 3–5 p.m.

Thursday Happy Hour | 3–5 p.m.

154 Winery Lane, Leon, VA  22725 (540) 547-3707

www.princemichel.com

A Woman-Owned Business

2024 Duet

The nose of this vin gris (50% Petit Manseng, 50% Tannat) is a melodic symphony of fresh red raspberries and cranberries along with hints

July 17 - Pop-up: Cuba-Mex Food Truck from 12:00pm until 6:00pm.

July 18 - Sip & Learn at 6pm: The History of the Banjo by Cutch Tuttle.

July 20 - Pop-up: Cousins Maine Lobster from 12:00pm until 6:00pm.

July 25 - Book Club @ The Vineyard starting at 6pm: Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver.

Aug. 1 - Book World Meets Wine World at 5:30pm: Nichole Calabrese will read from her book Haunt.

Aug. 3 - Français with Françoise at 5:00pm.

Aug. 8 - Words and Wine at 6:00pm. Poets, novelists, spokenword artists, and storytellers of all sorts are invited to share their work. RSVP to the event by email - info@ revalationvineyards.com. Arrive early to get your glass of wine or verjus and reserve your space in our reading list for the night.

Sept. 27 - Vertical Cabernet Franc Tasting at 6:00pm. Tickets will be available on the website August 1.

2710 Hebron Valley Road, Madison, VA 22727 • 540-407-1236 www.revalationvineyards.com

VIRGINIA WINE

COLLECTIVE

Summer at the Collective

We are thrilled to announce that the tasting room at the Virginia Wine Collective is now open! Join us for some of the best local wines in Virginia, featuring wines by the glass and winemaker wine flights featuring Jake Busching Wines, Joy Ting Wines, Delve Wines, Dogwood & Thistle, Zora Chloe and Eastwood (among others) along

July 18: Jake Busching /Jake Busching Wines

July 25: Matthieu Finot /Domaine Finot

Production Tours and Guided Tastings

We look forward to welcoming guests to the Virginia Wine Collective for tours and guided tastings. Please email our Wine Collective Coordinator, Gabrielle Thomas, if you would like to schedule a tour or guided tasting. She may be reached at gabrielle@ eastwoodfarmandwinery.com

Large Party Reservations

Interested in making a large party reservation for your group? Reach out to emma@ eastwoodfarmandwinery.com to book.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

Winery Hours:  Friday 1-8PM

Saturday 12-8PM Sunday 12-5PM

1585 Avon Street Extended Charlottesville, VA 22902 (434) 264-6727

https://eastwoodfarmandwinery.com/ virginia-wine-collective/

FOR FUN PUZZLES

SUDOKU

#1

#1

#2 #5

#4

CROSSWORD BY MATT JONES

ACROSS

1. Haydn’s nickname

5. “White Christmas” record label

10. Big bikes

14. Faucet issue

15. Eyed lewdly

16. LGBT rights activist Windsor

17. Twain protagonist

18. Black, in Bordeaux

19. Regal title

20. Marvel series from 2013-2020

23. Conical cooker

24. “Boy king” of Egypt

25. Info that often gets encrypted

34. Geller who claims paranormal ability

35. Memo taker

36. Like failed goals

37. Speakers between woofers and tweeters, for short

39. Like some baskets

41. Domesticated

42. To have, in Le Havre

44. Neared, with “to”

46. Former Portuguese colony in India

47. It only has 60 feet between bases

50. Part of RSVP

51. Winnipeg-to-Memphis dir.

52. How additional items are described in toy ads (and a hint to the circled letters)

60. ___ gobi (Indian potato dish)

61. “Lady Bird” actress Saoirse

62. Still-life fruit

64. Tabby noise

65. Bar mixer

66. Pie crust ingredient

67. X Games airer

68. Refuge from the sun

69. “Where the Sidewalk ___” (Shel Silverstein book)

DOWN

1. Adobe export

2. Operatic solo

3. Send an e-notification to

4. Nonprofit journalism org.

5. “Ya got me”

6. They may easily bruise

7. Ad agency award

8. “What’s My Line?” panelist Bennett

9. “___ Fideles” (Christmas carol)

10. Unsure

11. “Garfield” canine

12. St. Pauli ___ (beer brand)

13. Pomegranate bit

21. Halfway through the day

22. “Hotel Rwanda” group

25. Alternative to Nikes

26. “Wicked” star Cynthia

27. Free from

28. Maldives landform

29. Video game stage

30. “Judge ___” (1995 Stallone movie)

gain 63. Map lines, for short

This beautiful city has kept us up and running through advertising support since 1989, but now we also need you, readers of the free word, to help us keep telling local stories. If free, independent news is important to you, please consider a gift of $35 to keep the lights on—in our office, sure, but also the light we will continue to shine into every corner of Charlottesville. Depending on the size of your gift, you could receive a digital copy of C-VILLE every Tuesday evening (before it hits stands Wednesday), a tote bag, and two invites to the Best of C-VILLE party in August 2025. Support the work of C-VILLE Weekly.

SUPPORT OUR WORK

By Rob Brezsny

Leo

(July 23-Aug. 22): In medieval bestiaries, unicorns were said to be fierce, wild creatures. They were very real but also hidden. Only people with pure hearts could see or commune with them. I suspect you now have the chance to glide into a potent “pure heart” phase, Leo. My fervent hope is that you will take this opportunity to cleanse yourself of irrelevancies and rededicate yourself to your deepest yearnings and most authentic selfexpressions. If you do, you just may encounter the equivalent of a unicorn.

Virgo

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Some Buddhist monks create mandalas on floors from colored sand. They work meticulously for days or weeks to build intricate, symmetrical masterpieces. Once their beautiful work is done, however, it typically doesn’t last long. The creators sweep it away either immediately or soon. The sand may be disposed of, perhaps poured into a river or stream. What’s the purpose of this strange practice? Most importantly, it displays a reverence for the impermanence of all things—an appreciation for beauty but not an attachment to it. I recommend you consider taking a cue from the sand mandalas in the coming weeks. Is there anything you love that you should let go of? A creation you can allow to transform into a new shape? An act of sacred relinquishing?

Libra

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Glassblowers shape molten sand with breath and fire, knowing the material can only be formed while it’s hot and glowing. If they wait too long, the stuff stiffens, turns brittle, and resists change. But if they push too soon, it collapses into a misshapen blob. In this spirit, Libra, I urge you to recognize which parts of your life are now just the right temperature to be reshaped. Your timing must be impeccable. Where and when will you direct the flame of your willpower? Don’t wait until the opportunity cools. Art and magic will happen with just the right amount of heat applied at just the right moment.

Scorpio

(Oct. 23-Nov.21): “I have often been racked by obsessive urges that plague me until I act them out.” So says my Scorpio friend Fatima, a conceptual artist. “Fortunately,” she continues, “I have finally retrained myself to focus on creative obsessions that fuel my art rather than on anxious, trivial obsessions that disorder my life. I’d be an offensive maniac if I couldn’t use my work as an outlet for my vehement fantasy life.” I recommend Fatima’s strategy to Scorpios most of the time, but especially so in the coming days. Your imagination is even more cornucopian than usual. To harness its beautiful but unruly power, you must channel it into noble goals.

FREE WILL ASTROLOGY FOR FUN

(June 21-July 22): In Yoruba cosmology, ase is the sacred life force that animates the universe. It’s divine energy that can be harnessed by humans to make things happen, to speak and act with ardent intention so that words and deeds shape reality. I am pleased to report that you Cancerians are extra aligned with ase these days. Your words are not casual. Your actions are not mild or minor. You have the power to speak what you mean so robustly that it has an enhanced possibility to come into being. What you command with love and clarity will carry enduring potency.

Sagittarius

(Nov. 22-Dec.21): The Igbo people of Nigeria have a term: ogwugwu na-adị n’ulo. It means “the medicine is in the house.” It’s the belief that healing doesn’t necessarily come from afar. It may already be here, hidden among the familiar, waiting to be acknowledged or discovered. Dear Sagittarius, your natural instinct is to look outward and afar for answers and help. But in the coming weeks, you should look close to home. What unnoticed or underestimated thing might be a cure or inspiration you’ve been overlooking? How can you find new uses for what you already have?

Capricorn

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): I invite you to celebrate the holiday known as Be Your Own Best Helper.

How should you observe this potentially pivotal transformation in your relationship with yourself? Divest yourself of yearnings to have someone clean up after you and service your baseline necessities. Renounce any wishes you harbor for some special person to telepathically guess and attend to your every need. Vow that from now on, you will be an expert at taking excellent care of yourself. Do you dare to imagine what it might feel like to be your own best helper?

Aquarius

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): In the ancient practice of astronomy, the stars were considered “incorruptible.” Unlike the planets, their movements were unchanging, their lights stationary, their destinies steady and stable. We human beings are the opposite of all those descriptors, of course. There’s no use in hoping otherwise, because constancy just isn’t an option for us.

The good news, Aquarius, is that you are now poised to thrive on these truths. The inevitability of change can and should be a treasured gift for you. You’re being offered chances to revise plans that do indeed need to be revised. You are being invited to let go of roles that don’t serve you. But what initially feels like a loss or sacrifice may actually be permission. Evolution is a tremendous privilege!

Pisces

(Feb. 19-March 20): The axolotl is an amphibian that never outgrows its larval form. Unlike most creatures, it retains its youthful traits into adulthood. Amazingly, it can regenerate it limbs, its spinal cord, and parts of its brain. Let’s make the axolotl your inspirational animal, Pisces. What part of your “youth” is worth keeping—not as immaturity, but as righteous design? Where are you being asked not to evolve past a stage, but to deepen within it? And what might be regenerated in you that seemed to have been lost? Your magic will come from being like an axolotl. Be strange. Be playful. Be ageless and original and irrepressible.

Aries

(March 21-April 19): In the days before lighthouses, some coastal communities used “fire beacons”—elevated structures where people tended open flames to guide sailors. In the coming weeks, Aries, I invite you to be like both the keeper and the flame. People will be drawn to your brightness, warmth, and persistence as they navigate through their haze and fog. And surprise! You may find your own way more clearly as you tend to others’ wayfinding. Don’t underestimate the value of your steady, luminous signal. For some travelers,

your presence could be the difference between drifting and docking. So burn with purpose, please. Keep your gleam strong and visible.

Taurus

(April 20-May 20): The ancestors of my American friend Arisa lived in Ukraine, Indonesia, the Choctaw nation, and the Great Lakes region. Her new husband Anselme is of Japanese, Italian, and French descent. Their wedding was a celebration of multi-cultural influences. Guests delivered toasts in five languages. Their marriage vows borrowed texts from three religious traditions. The music included a gamelan ensemble, a band that played Ukrainian folk music, and a DJ spinning Choctaw and Navajo prayers set to Indian ragas. I bring this to your attention in the hope you will seek comparable cross-fertilization in the coming weeks. It’s an excellent time to weave richly diverse textures into your life.

Gemini

(May 21-June 20): I predict a future when women will hold half of the leadership roles, when their income and time devoted to childcare will match men’s, when women’s orgasms are as common as men’s, and when most guys know that misogyny is perilous to their health. Until the bloom of that wonderful era, I invite Geminis of all genders to invoke your tender ingenuity as you strengthen female opportunities and power. In my view, this work is always crucial to your maximum spiritual and psychological health—but even more so than usual in the coming weeks. Boost the feminine in every way you can imagine.

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

CLASSIFIEDS

DEADLINE

SIZES AVAILABLE

PRICING

Legals

VIRGINIA: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE IN RE:

ESTATE OF MARY KAREN GLEASON

Civil Action No.

SHOW CAUSE ORDER AGAINST DISTRIBUTION

It is ordered that the creditors of, and all other persons interested in the above estate show cause, if they can, on the 25th day of July, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. before this Court at its courtroom, against payment and delivery of the estate to the distributees without requiring refunding bonds.

Entered: Cheryl V. Higgins

Judge

Date: 6/10/2025

WE ASK FOR THIS:

Neal Walters, Esq. (VSB No. 32048)

Melissa T. Markiewicz, Esq. (VSB No. 39990)

Scott I Kroner, PLC

418 East Water Street

P.O. Box 2737

Charlottesville, VA 22902

Telephone (434) 296-2161

Fax (434) 293-2073

nwalters@scottkroner.com

mmarkiewicz@scottkroner.com

Counsel for the Administrator

Trustees’ Sale of 1820 RIDING CLUB ROAD, KEENE, VA

In execution of that certain deed of trust dated June 19, 2018, securing payment in the original principal amount of $117,000.00 recorded in the Clerk’s Office of the Circuit Court of Albermarle County, VA as Instrument Number 201800007415 in Deed Book 05068 at page 0346-00351 (the “Deed of Trust”), default having occurred in payment of the indebtedness secured by the Deed of Trust, the undersigned Substitute Trustee, at the direction of the secured party, will offer for sale at public auction at the main entrance to the building housing the Circuit Court of the County of Albermarle, VA at Court Square, 501 East Jefferson Street, Charlottesville, VA on July 18, 2025 at 12:00 Noon. the property described in the referenced Deed of Trust located at the above address and more Particularly described as follows: ALL that certain lot or parcel of land, in Albemarle County, Virginia, fronting on State Route 741 (Riding Club Road), containing 2.17 acres, more particularly described on a plat by Old Albemarle Surveying, L.L.C., dated January 11, 2006 and recorded in the Clerk’s Office, Circuit Court of the County of Albemarle, Virginia, in Deed Book 3205, page 261

TERMS OF SALE: CASH. A bidder’s deposit of $10,000.00 or 10% of the sale price, whichever is lower, in the form of cash or certified funds (payable to the Substitute Trustee) must be presented at the time of sale. The balance of the purchase price is due within fifteen (15) days of the date of sale, otherwise Purchaser’s deposit may be forfeited to the Substitute Trustee(s) to be disbursed in accordance with VA law. The Property and appurtenances thereto, if any, will be sold “as is” without warranty of any kind and subject to any and all judgments, liens, covenants, conditions, restrictions, easements or other matters of record or not of record which may take priority over the referenced Deed of Trust. Time is of the essence. The sale is subject to post-sale confirmation by the secured party or the Substitute Trustee of the terms and acceptability of the sale, at the sole discretion of the secured party or Substitute Trustee. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser’s sole remedy will be the return of the deposit paid without interest and the Purchaser will have no further recourse against the Substitute Trustee, the Mortgagee or the Trustee’s attorney. Additional Terms of Sale will be announced at the time of sale and will be set forth in the Trustee’s Memorandum of Foreclosure Sale to be executed by the successful bidder at the time of the sale. This is a communication from a debt collector and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Sale is subject to seller confirmation. Substitute Trustee: RVA Recovery, LLC. Contact Stephen B. Wood at The Wood Law Firm, 5101 Monument Ave., Suite 106, Counsel for Trustee: TEL: (804) 873-0088 or (804) 335-0888. File #2025FC-008. Ad Dates: June 24, July 1, July 8, 2025

This is a communication from a debt collector and any information obtained will be used for that purpose

DESIGN PUBLIC HEARING

Dairy Road Bridge Replacement

State Project: U000-104-365, UPC 113835

Federal Project: STP-5104(326)

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Open House: 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Walker Upper Elementary School –1564 Dairy Rd., Charlottesville, VA 22903

The City of Charlottesville will hold a Public Hearing for the Dairy Road Bridge Replacement Project. Come see plans for the replacement of the Dairy Road Bridge Project. This project will replace the aging and load restricted Dairy Road bridge over the US Route 250 bypass. The City of Charlottesville has secured funding through VDOT’s State of Good Repair program to complete the bridge replacement. Dairy Road over Route 250 bypass will be closed during construction beginning in late 2026 for approximately one year to complete the construction.

Review the proposed project plans depicting the major design features and the National

Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documentation at the Informal Plan Review. The environmental document will be available for review and comment for 30 days beginning July 1, 2025.

Project materials may be viewed at City of Charlottesville Public Works, Capital Development Division, 305 4th Street NW , Charlottesville, VA 22903 beginning July 1, 2025 and will be available at the public hearing.

Give your written or oral comments at the hearing or submit written comments postmarked by July 25, 2025 to Najeeb Behhnam, City of Charlottesville Public Works, Capital Development Division, 305 4th Street NW, Charlottesville, VA 22903 or behhnamn@ charlottesville.gov.

The City of Charlottesville ensures non-discrimination and equal employment in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. No person shall be excluded from participation in or be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to, discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.

If you feel you have been denied participation in, or denied benefits of, or been subjected to discrimination, in regard to this project or otherwise discriminated against because of your race, color, national origin, gender, age or disability, you may contact the City of Charlottesville, Clerk of Council at (434) 970-3113.

Questions regarding this project should be directed to Najeeb Behhnam at 434-4599763 or behhnamn@charlottesville.gov. Any persons with questions on the accessibility of the facility or need for reasonable accommodations should contact Najeeb Behhnam.

PUBLIC NOTICE

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

Commonwealth of Virginia VA. CODE § 8.01-316

Charlottesville Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court

Commonwealth of Virginia, in re: E.U.S. (dob 11/17/2019)

The object of this suit is to terminate the parental rights in E.U.S. (dob 11/17/2019) and remove a foster care plan with adoption goal

It is ORDERED that the unknown father, appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before August 14, 2025 at 9:00 a.m.

5/28/2025

DATE

Sys Admin IV

Bach’s deg (or forgn equiv) in CS, comp eng’g or rel + 6 yrs exp. Use expertise in Red Hat Enterprise Linux servers & workstations, Oracle database, NGAS and Lustre, & containerization of science apps, to install proj server & virtual sys for science supporting sys & work w/ high end users of expert sys for large array telescope.

F/T. National Radio Astronomy Observatory, Charlottesville, VA. 10% dom/ int’l trvl.

Apply at https://public.nrao.edu/careers/ Ref# 42. No calls/recruiters/visa sponsorship.

Services

Areshini Pather

JUDGE

P.S. THE HOTSEAT

Collection direction

Hailing from the city of Adelaide in South Australia, Nici Cumpston OAM, the new director of the Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection at UVA, is a Barkandji Aboriginal artist, curator, writer, and educator whose family is also of Afghan, Irish, and English descent. Barkandji are the river people who belong to the Barka, the Darling River in far western New South Wales, Australia. Cumpston prides herself on her ability to build meaningful relationships, and she is passionate about supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. Before undertaking her role at Kluge-Ruhe, she served as the inaugural curator of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art at the Art Gallery of South Australia from 2008–25 and the artistic director of the internationally renowned Tarnanthi Festival of Contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art from 2014–25. Cumpston recently relocated to Charlottesville, and we welcomed her into the HotSeat.

Name: Nici Cumpston

Age: How very dare you.

Pronouns: She/her/hers

Hometown: Adelaide, South Australia

Job(s): Director, Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection

What’s something about your job that people would be surprised to learn? Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection is the only museum in the world outside of Australia dedicated to the research and exhibition of Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art.

What is art to you? Art is core to our foundation as human beings. It is how we express ourselves and is present in every aspect of daily life.

Why is supporting arts education important? To enable people of all ages and from all walks of life to gain a deeper understanding of other cultures and their beliefs. This insight develops empathy and shows how art has the power to transform the way people can express themselves to share and deal with their lived experiences.

What are you looking at/researching right now? Our next visiting artist-in-residence is Robert Fielding, who is coming in September from the desert in the South Australian Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands. Favorite exhibition venue: Fondation Opale, in Lens, Crans-Montana, Switzerland, with views of the Swiss Alps and Lake Louché.

Favorite artist: Wendy Hubert, Yindjibarndi artist from Roebourne, Western Australia. Best advice you ever got: From my late mum, Noelene, when I was in my early 20s, to go to art school to learn how to use my camera.

Proudest accomplishment: Presenting the Tarnanthi Festival of Contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art at the Art Gallery of South Australia for the past 10 years.

Best part of living here: The people, exploring the countryside, and getting to know my new work colleagues.

Worst part of living here: It’s a long way from Australia.

Favorite Charlottesville restaurant: Orzo

Favorite Charlottesville gallery/museum: I have to say Kluge-Ruhe!

Favorite Charlottesville landmark/attraction: Farmers market at IX Park

Bodo’s order: Turkey, avocado, jack cheese, and sprouts.

Describe your perfect day: A morning swim, followed by a slow walk with our little dog Lozzi, a pancake brunch, and a lazy afternoon puttering around home.

If you could be reincarnated as a person or thing, what would you be? A Blue Ulysses butterfly.

If you had three wishes, what would you wish for? World peace, an end to homelessness, sustained support and recognition for the arts.

Are there any superstitions you abide by? It’s not a superstition per se, but a cultural practice of cleansing myself by splashing water on the back of my neck when visiting a waterway, to let the ancestors know I am visiting their country.

Most embarrassing moment: Spending a ridiculous amount of money on a coat when freezing and jet lagged on Park Avenue in NYC.

Do you have any pets? Lozzi, our gorgeous doggo.

Favorite movie and/or show: “Reservation Dogs”

Favorite book: Sally Mann, Hold Still Who’d play you in a movie? The character of Stevie Budd from “Schitt’s Creek.” What’s your comfort food/meal? Macn-cheese

Go-to karaoke song: “Flame Trees,” Cold Chisel

Subject that causes you to rant: Racism Best journey you ever went on: Reef House, Palm Cove, Far North Queensland Next journey: Tarnanthi Festival, Adelaide, South Australia

Favorite word: Discombobulated Hottest take/most unpopular opinion: Tea is better than coffee.

What have you forgotten today? To dance.

Excellent City Benefits

Paid CDL Training

Flexible Schedule

Drivers - $23.50+/hr

Aides - $20.50+/hr