UNLOCK THE SECRET TO STRONGER TREES
Schedule Your Dormant Pruning Today!
Scheduling tree pruning during the dormant months of November–March:
• Increases arborist’s visibility of your trees
• Supports the direction of future tree growth
• Decreases the spread of diseases
Contact your local arborist at 434-956-1981 to get scheduled.
To learn more: davey.com/residential-tree-services/dormant-pruning
Creek
Love Local
Stepping into February, we’re reminded that the heart of our community lies in its people and their stories. This month, our "Love Local" theme celebrates the connections, creativity, and passion that make our region such an inspiring place to live, work, and thrive.
In this issue, we’re thrilled to spotlight the journey of Angelo Jewelry, a business deeply rooted in Charlottesville's charm and vibrance. Discover how this passionate jeweler has not only grown but flourished for decades, thanks to close ties to our community and an unwavering dedication to artistry.
We’re also savoring the marriage of two indulgences: wine and chocolate. Get an insider’s guide to perfect pairings crafted by a local vineyard that not only creates exceptional wines but also makes its own in-house chocolates. Plus, if you’re looking for expert advice on where to spend a memorable date night or host an unforgettable Galentine's Day gathering, you’ll love our curated list of swoon-worthy local spots. And for those planning a walk down the aisle, step into the story of a Charlottesville bridal shop whose dedication to love and community shines in every gown and veil.
As we embrace this month of connection, we encourage you to continue showing your support for our amazing partners and all of the other businesses, artists, and entrepreneurs who make Charlottesville extraordinary. Every purchase, visit, and recommendation strengthens the fabric of our community. Thank you for joining us this February as we celebrate all the ways we love local!
Warmly,
JAMES LISOWSKI, PUBLISHER
@CITYLIFESTYLECHARLOTTESVILLE
February 2025
PUBLISHER
James Lisowski | james.lisowski@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Jennifer Waldera | jennifer.waldera@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Jennifer Waldera
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Ron Dressel, Matthew Hauck, Ali Haney, James Lisowski, P. Perugi Marraccini, Kori Price, Jennifer Waldera, Angelo Jewelry, Artful Lodger, Maryury Padilla, Ix Arts Foundation, October Grace Media, Arboristy A Davey Company
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
C u r a t e d c o l l e c t i o n o f l o c a l a n d i n t e r n a t i o n a l o r i g i n a l a r t w o r k s
D e s i g n e r M i d C e n t u r y M o d e r n D é c o r
W i d e s e l e c t i o n o f v i n t a g e g o l d a n d s i l v e r j e w e l r y
P e r s i a n & o t h e r h a n d w o v e n r u g s
W
Glass
How Lee and Pam Marraccini
Curated
expert Katie McFarland.
Co-owner Natalia Dubina discusses
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: A pop-up dinner by students in Antwon Brinson's Go Cook training program. 2: Chef Antwon Brinson with graduating students of his Go Cook training program. 3: Participants in the Community Festival of Hope at Ix Art Park. 4: Attendees of a pasta class organized by C-Ville Bites. 5: Kenn Hopkins, Jr. as Falstaff in THE MERRY WIVES OF WINDSOR at the American Shakespeare Center (2024). 6: Some of the staff of UVA Health Orthopedics at Boar's Head's illumination. 7: The Cast of A CHRISTMAS CAROL at the American Shakespeare Center (2024).
Want to be seen in the magazine?
PHOTO BY OCTOBER GRACE MEDIA.
IX ARTS FOUNDATION
MARYURY PADILLA
PHOTO BY OCTOBER GRACE MEDIA.
KORI PRICE
KORI PRICE
business monthly
Arboristry, A Davey Tree Expert Company, Is Ready for Spring
As spring approaches, it’s Arboristry’s time to shine! The 100% employee-owned company has a multitude of certified arborists on staff who are ready to jump into their specialized work including treating trees to promote health or control diseases and pests, pruning or removing trees and shrubs, and planting. The team also offers storm damage prevention, restoration, and emergency services to round out their comprehensive list of services.
Scan to read more
Artful Lodger Looks Ahead to New Location
If you guessed owner Caroline Minsky is thinking about furniture, you’re right. The Artful Lodger furniture store is a 21-year staple in Charlottesville for highend, customizable furnishings in a curated boutique setting. 2026 will bring the opening of the Lodger’s new location on Route 250 East between Charlottesville and Zion Crossroads. The forthcoming restoration of the Cosner building is exactly what Caroline pictures for the future of the Lodger.
Troup Custom Carpentry is Prepared for Spring Home Improvements
Troup Custom Carpentry’s founder brings over a decade of experience to the table and as spring approaches, it’s the perfect time to start planning projects that Troup specializes in. From custom decks and porches to repairs, remodeling, and general contracting, they have you covered. As Certified TimberTech Pros, Troup Custom Carpentry ensures the highest standards of quality and expertise in every project and consistently sticks to its three core principles: Quality, Care, and Craftsmanship.
Photography by Arboristry, a Davey Tree Expert Company
Photography by Artful Lodger
Photography by Ali Haney, Brand & Market
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER
Glass House Winery owner Jay Smith and Glass House Chocolatiers share tips on crafting impeccable wine and chocolate matches.
LOCAL WINES, LOCAL CHOCOLATES, PERFECT MATCHES
WHAT INSPIRED YOUR WINERY TO START MAKING CHOCOLATES IN ADDITION TO WINE?
When Glass House's original owners Jeff and Michelle decided to open Glass House they wanted to combine their love for wine and viticulture with Michelle’s personal passion for hand-made gourmet truffles and Jeff’s knowledge of tropical plants.
WHAT IS THE KEY TO A SUCCESSFUL CHOCOLATE AND WINE PAIRING?
A great rule of thumb is to match the intensity of the chocolate and wine to each other. For example, a lighter delicate flavored chocolate with a lighter body wine.
HOW DO YOU APPROACH PAIRING YOUR WINES WITH YOUR HANDMADE CHOCOLATES?
We start by trying to match styles we think would go well together. But in the end, it’s most fun to taste through our full line-up of wines with a new chocolate, or our full line-up of chocolates when we are looking to pair them with a new wine.
ARE THERE ANY CLASSIC PAIRINGS THAT YOU RECOMMEND FOR BEGINNERS?
A classic pairing for us is our flagship Wine Cream, paired with our chocolate port-style Meglio del Sesso. The Wine Cream's buttercream center is made from an infusion of dark chocolate and Norton wine, which is also the base for our Meglio del Sesso. The resulting pairing is of delicious dark chocolate-covered cherries!
WHAT ARE SOME UNEXPECTED OR UNCONVENTIONAL WINE AND CHOCOLATE PAIRINGS THAT YOU’VE DISCOVERED?
A fun and delicious combination we discovered is our Estate Grown Barbera (a medium-bodied, Italian red varietal) paired with our Cherry Chili chocolate. The heat meets sweet in this pairing is a staff favorite!
HOW DOES THE TYPE OF CHOCOLATE IMPACT THE PAIRING PROCESS?
The type of chocolate very much impacts the pairing, mostly due to the percentage of actual cacao that is used. A milk chocolate, for example, has less cacao and more milk, giving it a creamy mild flavor. This lends to pairing with a soft tannin, fruit-forward wine.
Dark chocolate has a higher amount of cacao and less milk resulting in more intensity and a 'drier' mouthfeel. These chocolates pair well with richer, bolder wines, [while] intense dark chocolates pair best with sweeter port-style wine.
White chocolate, while not having cocoa solids hence its appearance -- does contain cacao butter full of fat and richness. These tend to pair well with fruit-forward wines with soft tannin.
Wine and a box of housemade chocolates at Glass House Winery.
Photo Credit: Matthew Hauck.
WHAT ROLE DOES THE WINE’S SWEETNESS LEVEL PLAY IN PAIRING IT WITH CHOCOLATE?
Sweetness in wine calls for bigger, bolder, darker chocolate to balance out the sugar in the wine with increased cacao.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE PAIRING FROM YOUR COLLECTION? IF SO, WHY DOES IT WORK SO WELL?
I really enjoy our Rum & Coconut milk chocolate paired with our Chardonnay.
WHILE THERE ARE SOME
GENERAL GUIDELINES TO
HELP FIND PAIRING
SUCCESS,
I THINK THE BIGGEST MISTAKE ANYONE COULD MAKE IS TO NOT TRY A VARIETY OF WINES AND CHOCOLATES TOGETHER AND FIND THEIR OWN FAVORITE PAIRINGS!
The milk chocolate ganache pairs well with the crisp acidity in the Chardonnay and the coconut creates a fun piña colada flavor.
CAN CERTAIN FLAVOR NOTES IN WINE ENHANCE SPECIFIC FLAVORS IN CHOCOLATE?
Totally! Both wine and chocolate have tannin — the drying sensation you feel after taking a sip. This is the reason that darker chocolates with higher cacao content are more bitter and dry your mouth. This is also the reason that they pair so well with bolder wines with some sweetness to balance out the drying.
ARE THERE ANY COMMON PAIRING MISTAKES THAT PEOPLE SHOULD AVOID?
While there are some general guidelines to help find pairing success, I think the biggest mistake anyone could make is to not try a variety of wines and chocolates together and find their own favorite pairings!
ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE:
We offer a wine and chocolate pairing flight! Flights are available anytime in our tasting room and include four samples of our wines paired with four of our delicious chocolates! The flights are $27.
@betsykraftdesign
How Lee and Pam Marraccini built a life and business rooted in creativity and community in Charlottesville.
Handcrafted with Love in Charlottesville
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER WALDERA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY P. PERUGI MARRACCINI, ANGELO JEWELRY, JAMES LISOWSKI
Lee Marraccini.
Photo Credit: P. Perugi Marraccini
For over 40 years, Lee and Pam Marraccini have called Charlottesville home, building both their lives and a jewelry business here. As the heart and soul behind Angelo Jewelry, their journey is all about creativity, passion, and forging meaningful connections within the community.
Before making Charlottesville their permanent home, the Marraccinis lived in Paw Paw, West Virginia, after spending time in Washington, D.C. Their move was fueled by a desire to simplify life while raising their two children.
“We were looking for better schools for our children and knew about Charlottesville because we came here to do craft shows and had friends who were craftspeople,” Pam shared. “A small town rather than a suburb of a city made life easier with two children and driving them places. Previously, Lee was traveling to shows a lot, so me being home with them alone made it easier. We like it here -- it’s a beautiful place.”
Lee agreed, noting, “We were living rurally for 11 years... the longevity here has been great. The great thing about Charlottesville is the community. It’s a diverse community. We’ve developed good friendships and love being a part of it."
Lee was initially a math teacher but his interest in jewelry design began with an adult education class he took in Washington D.C. while Pam explored pottery. What started as a pastime so that he could accompany Pam to her class to ensure she made it safely became a lifelong career, fueled primarily by his acquired love of design but also by necessity. “Being broke is motivating,” Lee joked.
His design process is guided by the stones he works with. “Pretty much what it is, is I design around stones; there’s a heavy influence on what the stone is, what stone might go with it. I follow the direction that the path takes me. I sometimes have no idea where it’s going,” he said. “The styles are really, really
Lee and Pam Marraccini outside of Angelo Jewelry.
Photo Credit: James Lisowski.
Angelo Jewelry.
Photo Credit: P. Perugi Marraccini
Lee Marraccini in front of Angelo Jewelry.
Photo Credit: P. Perugi Marraccini
The great thing about Charlottesville is
the
community.
It’s a diverse
community. We’ve developed good friendships and love being a
part of it.
clean and contemporary and influenced by previous work. A lot of times it gets better; it just happens.”
Pam added, “The materials and his sense of geometry are pretty strong. He has a strong instinctive ability.” She also had high praise for Lee on a personal level saying, "He has an amazing sense of humor and an amazing personality that is very magnetic. He puts people at ease all the time over and over again -- he also helps me laugh at myself!”
In 1996, Angelo Jewelry opened in the Michie Building. By 2000, they moved to their current location on the Downtown Mall. Their son Marco, a UVA architecture graduate, designed the space, which became operational just in time for the holiday season that year.
The Marraccinis have seen Charlottesville evolve over the decades. “There was nothing happening on the Downtown Mall,” Pam remembered. “It changed when they put the ice skating rink in and the Violet Crown.”
Lee noted he was also surprised by how small and quiet it was at the time. “I thought it was like a city, and then I was like, oh, this is it. The Omni was just getting built. That end of the mall was dead, and the end where we are [now] was busier.”
Beyond their business, the Marraccinis are active in the local community. They frequently donate pieces for charitable auctions -- about 30 each year. One of their standout contributions was to the Fashion as Art event at UVA’s Fralin Museum of Art.
We’re very active in the community outside of the store; it’s really nice that we’re built into the community that way.
The Marraccinis also support local artists, showcasing their work in the store and participating in First Fridays events throughout the year. Pam, who has had her own creative success as a skilled and talented photographer, has been an essential part of Angelo Jewelry, documenting the intricate details of each piece through her work.
As the business continues to thrive, the Marraccinis remain committed to their craft and their customers. “I have a really nice following, very loyal customers,” Lee said. “They say: Anything from Angelo, my wife will be happy with!”
Pam emphasized the importance of their community involvement: “We’re very active in the community outside of the store; it’s really nice that we’re built into the community that way. We really care about the community.”
Collaboration plays a key role in Lee’s work. His longtime assistant, Martha Carol Greene, has been part of the process for 30 years. “She loves making my designs, and little does she know she’s helping me. I owe a lot of my jewelry that’s accomplished to her,” Lee said.
Lee is passionate about continuing his work. “We don’t know the future… but I don’t want to stop designing or give up my studio. You can’t have jewelry as a hobby unless you sell what you make,” he laughed.
For Lee and Pam, Charlottesville is more than just a place to live -- it’s a thriving community that inspires and supports their work. Through their dedication and creativity, they’ve contributed to the area’s vibrant culture, embodying the spirit of “Love Local.”
Jewelry by Lee Marraccini. Photo
Credit: P. Perugi Marraccini
Ring by Lee Marraccini. Photo
Credit: P. Perugi Marraccini
Jewelry by Lee Marraccini.
Photo Credit: P. Perugi Marraccini
Jewelry by Lee Marraccini. Photo Credit: P. Perugi Marraccini
Celebrate
in Style
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER WALDERA
Curated date night and Galentine's Day plans from local expert and founder of Blue Ridge Concierge, Katie McFarland.
Whether you’re planning an intimate evening with someone special or a chic Galentine’s Day gathering with friends, Charlottesville offers an array of options. Katie McFarland, founder of Blue Ridge Concierge, shared her expert recommendations for creating the perfect night out (or in) designed with every kind of occasion in mind, any time of year.
FOR THE RESTAURANT LOVER
Looking for that perfect dining experience? Charlottesville’s food scene is overflowing with options. Step into the magical glow of C&O, where McFarland says
The James River.
FOR THE ART LOVER
For an experience that’s both inspiring and unique, check out the area’s artsy hot spots. The Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection is small but mighty, with rotating exhibits and free guided tours led by a passionate team eager to share the stories behind the works. Meanwhile, Les Yeux du Monde Gallery offers breathtaking mountaintop views paired with contemporary exhibitions showcasing regional and global artists.
Planning for spring? Waterperry Gardens is your go-to for dreamy walks amid artistic landscapes. McFarland especially recommends it for proposals and photo shoots. And of course, nothing beats the magic of The Paramount Theater -- catch a film, a comedy show, or even a live concert in the stunning historic venue.
gas lanterns create a “cozy, intimate atmosphere that makes this one of Charlottesville's most charming date-night or special-occasion spots.”
For a little intrigue, The Alley Light’s speakeasy vibes and show-stopping cocktails make it a must-visit. Prefer to avoid downtown parking? The Ivy Inn is a hidden gem that McFarland credits as “the kind of place that defines "melt-in-your-mouth" dining.”
McFarland also raves about Marigold by Jean-Georges, 1799 Restaurant at The Clifton, and Black Cow Chophouse. “I could give endless dinner recommendations,” she said.
FOR THE WINE LOVER
Raise a glass and toast to love or friendship! Charlottesville’s vineyards make for a truly elevated experience or you can explore beyond the immediate area at any of the award-winning Monticello American Viticultural Area wineries. Create your own agenda for the day or look to Blue Ridge Concierge to handle all the details. From curated winery itineraries to hassle-free transportation, you can focus on sipping while they get you and your date or group to your destinations safely.
Vineyard in Virginia.
Champagne toast at a vineyard.
“THIS IS A TRULY UNIQUE AND MAGICAL EXPERIENCE... I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THE SUNSET TOUR OR A PRIVATE TOUR. THIS IS A GREAT OPTION FOR A GROUP DATE WITH FRIENDS OR OTHER COUPLES AS WELL.”
Vineyard tour with Indian Summer Guide Service. Photo Credit: Jennifer Waldera
FOR THE VACATION LOVER
With so much to explore in such close proximity to Charlottesville, there’s no shortage of day-trip or overnight options. A quick drive to Gordonsville will land you on their adorable Main Street where you can meander through shops like Verdant by Monica Garrett, snack at Jackson & Co Market, and indulge in a romantic dinner at Près Des Prés. For a little extra adventure, add wineries like Merrie Mill, Southwest Mountain, Keswick, or Barboursville to your day.
In Culpeper, Davis Street offers endless charm, plus diverse dining and a couple of breweries all within walking distance. Plus, you can easily make the short drive to Old House Vineyards which has not only a tasting room for wine but one for spirits, too, in addition to an Irish pub where you can sip on their craft brews. Or, head to Staunton, where scenic views, boutique shopping, and a ride on the Virginia Scenic Railway make for an unforgettable day. Want to leave the driving to someone else? McFarland recommends booking a driver with Blue Ridge Concierge to kick back and enjoy the trip stress-free.
FOR THE ADVENTURER OR OUTDOOR LOVER
For those craving some excitement, these outdoor adventures bring the wow factor. Consider a day date of riding horseback with vineyard views as part of an Indian Summer Guide Service tour before sipping wine in a tasting room. Or, hop aboard a James River batteau tour for a mix of history, scenic beauty, and relaxation. "This is a truly unique and magical experience... I highly recommend the sunset tour or a private tour. This is a great option for a group date with friends or other couples as well," McFarland said. If unique live music experiences are what you’re looking for, grab tickets for Subterranean Sound at Grand Caverns in Grottoes, where the cavern’s acoustics turn every note into magic. McFarland advises getting tickets early since they sell out quickly.
FOR THE ONE WHO LOVES TO STAY HOME
McFarland recommends turning up the romance with an in-home couples massage arranged by Blue Ridge Concierge or arranging for a private chef to prepare dinner at your home. Or, set up a cooking lesson with a classically trained chef, allowing you and your partner or group to create a gourmet meal together. Top it all off with a custom cake and bubbly package from Cake Bloom via Blue Ridge Concierge, and you’ll have an at-home celebration that feels nothing short of magical.
To consult with Katie McFarland for your own customized experience, visit www.brcva.com or email hello@brcva.com.
In home chef.
MEET CHARLOTTESVILLE'S SEALED WITH A KISS
CO-OWNER NATALIA DUBINA DISCUSSES WHAT MAKES SEALED WITH A KISS UNIQUE AND WHY THEY LOVE BEING IN CHARLOTTESVILLE.
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER WALDERA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RON DRESSEL
CAN YOU SHARE A BIT ABOUT THE HISTORY OF THE STORE?
The store in Charlottesville is more than 25 years old: Susan Sorbello, an English woman, was the owner and designer of the store, and later, we continued her beautiful work after she moved back to England. One of the owners, Natalia, is an artist, a specialist of history of costumes, and a florist. In the past, she designed wedding themes and made flower bouquets. Dina, the other owner, is a professional clothing designer and has created wedding dresses for brides for more than 15 years. Now they both contribute their skills to helping brides find their dream dress.
WHAT MAKES YOUR BRIDAL WEAR COLLECTION UNIQUE OR SPECIAL COMPARED TO OTHERS IN THE AREA?
Gowns are produced with high-quality fabrics and beautiful finishing touches. There are many different styles to choose from and most dresses have the option to be customized by the designer or by alteration -- we provide a professional alteration service. We also offer mother-of-the-bride collection dresses.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT BEING PART OF THE LOCAL BRIDAL INDUSTRY?
We love seeing brides choose their dream dress.
HOW DO YOU APPROACH HELPING BRIDES FIND THE PERFECT DRESS THAT REFLECTS THEIR PERSONALITY AND STORY?
We want what is best for our brides. We create a good atmosphere so the bride is comfortable at our store. We listen closely to them without interrupting and they tell us [about the dress] they have dreamed of. Then, we show all the styles and explain all the details of the dress. It is [also] very important to know where the wedding is being held.
WHAT'S THE MOST REWARDING PART OF WORKING WITH BRIDES IN THIS COMMUNITY?
When a happy bride leaves our store. All our brides stay in our hearts. We are always so happy to see them years after their visit.
Sealed with a Kiss Bridal is located at 505 E Main St, Charlottesville, VA 22902.
SealedWithaKissBridal.com
natalia dubina: All our brides stay in our hearts. We are always so happy to see them years after their visit.
Photo: Sealed With a Kiss Storefront. Photo Credit: Ron Dressel
Bride-to-be at Sealed With a Kiss. Photo Credit: Ron Dressel
A SALAD REC IPE TO LOV E
A GORGEOUS, FRESH AND SIMPLE DISH
PEAR, PROSCIUTTO , Burrata Salad
INGREDIENTS
• Ripe Pear
• Prosciutto
• Burrata
• Lemon Zest
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Dried Figs
• Red Pepper Flakes
DIRECTIONS
1. Slice the ripe pear into thin slices.
2. Arrange pear slices on a plate, creating a base for the salad.
3. Nestle slices of prosciutto in-between pear slices, a perfect combo of sweet and savory.
4. Tear the burrata into bite-sized pieces and scatter them over the salad adding a velvety creaminess to the ensemble.
5. Grate fresh lemon zest over the entire salad, infusing it with citrus flavor.
6. Top with fresh basil, figs and pepper flakes.
7. Finish by generously drizzling extra virgin olive oil over the salad, creating a silky texture that ties it all together.
Chrysocolla/Azurite Pendant
Lee Angelo Marraccini in collaboration with Martha Carol Greene
THE SCOTTSDALE LURE OF
The endless skies of blue are interrupted only by cacti rising majestically from the ground, arms reaching skyward, and palm trees, which are often adorned by lights that twinkle when the sun sets. There are vistas of open desert, rising mountains, and even the lush green of the locale’s many golf courses. And, of course, there are the vibrant shopping, dining, art, and event scenes, too.
Scottsdale is a city located in Metro Phoenix in Arizona, which as a whole is nicknamed “The Valley of the Sun” for its more than 330 days of sun each year—one of the reasons the area is a draw for visitors. With few rainy days, it’s easy to plan your daily activities without worry. Yes, though, the summer gets hot. But the rest of the year? Perfection.
Scottsdale is a mix of a resort destination, city, and suburbs, with more open desert the further north you venture. To the south is Downtown Scottsdale—also known as Old Town Scottsdale—which is a mix of old Southwestern charm
BY MICHELLE GLICKSMAN
(including the legendary cowboy saloon, Rusty Spur Saloon); modern eateries from famed chefs; lots of shopping at small boutiques and specialty shops; the Arts District , which is filled with art galleries; and even tasting rooms from Arizona wineries located along the famed Scottsdale Wine Trail
Nearby is Scottsdale Fashion Square , one of the nation’s premier shopping destinations. While you’ll find many usual retailers there, there are also more than 40 luxury brands, including Christian Louboutin, Bottega Veneta, and Louis Vuitton.
Heading north are open-air shopping destinations Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons , which sit across the street from each other. Take the afternoon or evening to stroll through, exploring the shops, restaurants, and activity destinations such as the indoor mini-golf destination Puttshack . What else is there to see and do? Plenty.
FROM RELAXATION TO SHOPPING TO GOLF TO SIGHTSEEING, THIS DESTINATION HAS IT ALL
PLAY
Like golf? There are more than 200 golf courses in the Scottsdale area. Whether you’re a pro or just starting out, there is a course for you. One of the most popular in the area is the TPC Scottsdale as it is the locale of the WM Phoenix Open, the most-attended golf tournament in the world.
For most of the year, Scottsdale boasts warm temperatures, making spending a day splashing in a pool a perfect choice. Many local resorts have pool areas that feature fun extras such as water slides, lazy rivers, and even a cooled sand beach. And even if you’re not an on-site guest, you can often purchase a day pass to be on-site through ResortPass.com.
Of course, there’s also plenty of outdoor recreation in Scottsdale. Pinnacle Peak in North Scottsdale is a popular mountain to hike (as is the iconic Camelback Mountain, which is located in nearby Phoenix), and the Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt is a park and trail system spread over 11 miles. Kids love McCormickStillman Railroad Park , which boasts a small-scale train that circles the park and plenty of play areas.
A destination filled with numerous attractions is A rizona Boardwalk , a center that includes Butterfly Wonderland , OdySea Aquarium , Ripley’s Believe It or Not! , Museum of Illusions , and more.
CULTURE
The beauty of Scottsdale’s Sonoran Desert led famed architect, Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959), to build Taliesin West , his winter home and desert laboratory, in a mountainside in East Scottsdale. Today, there are daily tours of the UNESCO World Heritage site, and events are offered often.
However, Wright’s architecture isn’t the only art in the area. Beyond the Arts District in Downtown Scottsdale, there is public art all around the city, from sculptures to murals, so definitely keep your eyes open!
There are also museums such as Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West , a Smithsonian Affiliate, which showcases items from the Greater Western region, and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art , affectionately known as SMoCA.
On Thursday evenings, there’s a free public ArtWalk in the Arts District, where galleries stay open later. Wander the streets and galleries, often against a backdrop of live music and even artist appearances.
NEARBY
While there’s so much to do, see, and experience in Scottsdale proper, there’s also much to see nearby. Make sure to experience the Musical Instrument Museum (affectionately known as the MIM), which is the world’s only global instrument museum. Desert Botanical Garden features an array of desert plants, and Phoenix Art Museum has an impressive collection of art. And, of course, the Phoenix Zoo is a perfect place for both kids and adults alike.
LOVE POTION #9
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY ANNA BARNES
A PINK COCKTAIL PERFECT FOR CELEBRATING VALENTINE’S DAY
WHO NEEDS FLOWERS AND CHOCOLATE WHEN YOU CAN HAVE FLOWERS AND COCKTAILS?
This Valentine's Day, whether you plan to treat a loved one, treat your girlfriends, or treat yourself, I can promise you'll want to serve up this perfectly pink cocktail; one I like to call Love Potion #9. It looks as fabulous as it tastes. You can't beat the bright, fresh grapefruit juice and the bubbles add a lively kiss on top. Each sip is dreamier than the next. Cheers, here's to love!
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
• 1.5 oz rosé
• 5 oz fresh grapefruit juice
• 5 oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white
• 3 oz bubbles (champagne or sparkling wine)
THE HOW-TO:
1. Pour the rosé, simple syrup, egg white, and grapefruit juice into an ice-filled shaker.
2. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds, until chilled.
3. Pour into a coupe glass using the strainer.
4. Top with champagne or sparkling wine.
5. Garnish with edible flowers and grapefruit peel.
6. Enjoy!
We’ve sold several homes over the years, but our experience with Jamie (Waller) far surpassed those results. Jamie far exceeded our expectations and results with an offer within three (3) days and above ask. With her team, Jamie arranged for the staging of our home in an effort to appeal to a wide range of potential buyers with the aid of Marybeth Snell. Once in contract, Jamie took care of all the steps needed to take us to closing. Along this journey Jamie was available whenever question arose, and if she did not know the answer to a question she researched the issue and got right back to us. She also maintained close contact with the Buyers’ agent and we even received a thoughtful note from the Buyers thanks us for making the experience “a smooth process” - credit goes to Jamie for much of that. Based our recent experience, Jamie Waller has our full endorsement and regardless of whether you are a buyer or seller, expect nothing less. Thank you! Jamie. Job well done.
FIRST FRIDAYS
Friday Night Writes at New Dominion
404 E Main St, Charlottesville, VA 22902 | 7:00 PM
Bookshop
On the first Friday of each month, New Dominion Bookshop invites high school and college-age students to present their unique short stories, poetry, and music. The readings and acoustic music begin at 7 pm and anyone interested in participating can submit samples through a link at NDBookshop.com.
FEBRUARY 1ST, MARCH 1ST, APRIL 5TH
Winter Market at Rockfish Valley Community Center
190 Rockfish School Ln, Afton, VA 22920 | 9:00 AM
Stop by Rockfish Valley Community Center for a winter market that features local goods that range from produce, cheese, meats, baked goods, and jam to crafts, arts, plants, and more, all to the backdrop of live music. Get there early to enjoy the center’s pancake breakfast from 8:30 - 10:30 a.m., too. Learn more at RockfishCC.org.
FEBRUARY 8TH AND 9TH
Masterworks 3: Romeo and Juliet
Old Cabell Hall, Charlottesville, VA 22903 and Martin Luther King, Jr. Performing Arts Center, 1400 Melbourne Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22901 | February 8, 7:30; February 9, 3:30
Led by conductor Benjamin Rous, The Charlottesville Symphony will perform its third masterworks of the season at Old Cabell Hall on February 8 and at Martin Luther King, Jr. Performing Arts Center on February 9. Also performing will be the second winner of UVA’s annual Concerto Competition. For tickets, visit Music.Virginia.Edu
FEBRUARY 13TH
Piedmont Landscape Association’s 40th Annual Seminar
215 E Main St, Charlottesville, VA 22902 | 9:00 AM
Get a jump on spring by attending this seminar at the Paramount Theater. The event will feature landscaping and horticulture experts with lectures on a wide variety of topics including pollinators, sustainable lawn and landscape art, perennials, and mini-forests. Attendees will also have the opportunity to engage with local landscapers, non-profits, and green businesses and organizations. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit TheParamount.Net.
FEBRUARY 22ND
The Winery Comedy Tour at Cunningham Creek Winery
3304 Ruritan Lake Rd, Palmyra, VA 22963 | 6:30 PM
Get ready for an evening of wine, craft beer, and laughter at Cunningham Creek Winery in Palmyra. Organized by Herron Entertainment, a veteran-owned entertainment company, the nationwide tour features talented comedians and costs a fraction of the cost of many comedy shows. For tickets and details, see EventBrite.com.
FEBRUARY 27TH
The Firebird Storytime Event at Northside Library
705 West Rio Road, Charlottesville, VA 22901 | 10:30 AM
This free 30-minute interactive dance class and storytime is organized by Charlottesville Ballet. Children and their families or caregivers can enjoy the story while also watching ballerinas perform parts of the classic ballet. See details and other dates at local locations at CharlottesvilleBallet.org.
At UVA Health Orthopedics, our team of joint, bone, spine, and muscle experts is driven to help you thrive.
We offer seamless access to specialists, advanced imaging, physical therapy, surgeons and more. All under one roof.
Good health isn’t a given. UVA Health being there for you is.
uvahealth.com/ortho