Vinegar Hill Magazine | Tonsler Edition

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When do you need to think about colorectal cancer screening?

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Eating a healthy diet

Avoiding alcohol

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Not smoking

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Exercising

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Maintaining a healthy weight

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Vinegar Hill Magazine July 2023

INSIDE 06 10 12

AHMAD “BALLHAWK”

Hawkins Brings Energy and Enthusiasm to Tonsler Basketball League

CHANEL JACKSON

Super fan of the Tonsler Basketball League

BOO AGEE BRINGS PROFESSIONAL

Look to Tonsler Basketball League

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TONSLER BASKETBALL LEAGUE GROWS

Commissioner Wes Bellamy Talks about the Growth of the League and Plans for the Future

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SUPREME SKILLZ GM DAMIAN “GATOR”

Pettaway Reflects on Championship Season

ARI TAKES TONSLER

Basketball League Social to New Heights

ERIC “E. JONEZ”

E. Jones Adds Energy to the League and the Live Broadcast

KELZ RICHARDSON

Helps to Bring the Community Together

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Ahmad

Ballhawk Hawkins Brings Energy and Enthusiasm to Tonsler Basketball League

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Vinegar Hill Magazine July 2023

Photo Credit: Steve ‘P.Funk’ Morris

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hmad “Ballhawk” Hawkins is the MC and commentator for the Tonsler Basketball League, and he brings a lot of energy and enthusiasm to the games.

He is a fan of basketball and of the community, and he is passionate about making the Tonsler League the best it can be.

“I love being a part of the Tonsler League,” Hawkins said.

“It’s a great way to give back

to the community and to see some great basketball.”

Hawkins is known for his lively commentary and his ability to get the crowd involved, and he knows how to keep the games flowing smoothly.

“I want to make sure that everyone is having a good time,” Hawkins said. “I want to make the games exciting and entertaining.”

Hawkins is also a big supporter of the Tonsler League’s commitment to giving back to the community. The league hosts a number of events throughout the year, including a bike giveaway.

“I’m proud to be a part of a league that is doing so much good for the community,” Hawkins said.

Hawkins is looking forward to the next season of the Tonsler

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Basketball League. He is excited to see the league continue to grow and improve.

“I’m confident that the Tonsler League is going to be even better next year,” Hawkins said. “I’m excited to be a part of it.”

In addition to his work with the Tonsler Basketball League, Hawkins a member of the Prolyfyck run crew. He is passionate about using his platform to inspire others.

“I want to make a difference in the world,” Hawkins said. “I want to help people reach their full potential.”

Photo Credit: Steve ‘P.Funk’ Morris

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Vinegar Hill Magazine July 2023

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Chanel Jackson:

super fan of the Tonsler Basketball League Chanel Jackson is a self-proclaimed “super fan” of the Tonsler Basketball League. She has been attending games for years, and she is known for her enthusiastic support of the players and teams.

“I’m just a fan,” Jackson says. “But I’m a loud fan. I’m the one who’s yelling and screaming and cheering on the sidelines. I’m the one who’s talking trash to the other team.”

Jackson’s passion for the Tonsler Basketball League is evident in everything she does. She is always there to support the players, and she is always looking for ways to help the league grow.

“I want to do whatever I can to keep this league going,” Jackson says. “It’s a great thing for the community, and it’s a great way for young people to stay active and have fun.”

Jackson is not only a fan, but she is also a helper. She volunteers her time to help with the league and she is always willing to lend a hand.

“I do whatever needs to be done,” Jackson says. “I help set up the court. Whatever it takes.”

Jackson’s dedication to the Tonsler Basketball League is inspiring. She is a true fan who is passionate about making a difference in the community.

“This league is more than just basketball,” Jackson says.

“It’s about bringing people together and creating a sense Photo Credit: Provided by Chanel of community. It’s about giving young people a positive outlet, and it’s about making a difference in the lives of our youth.”

Jackson is a valuable asset to the Tonsler Basketball League. She is a dedicated fan, a helpful volunteer, and a passionate advocate for the league. She is sure to continue to play an important role in the league’s success for years to come.

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Vinegar Hill Magazine July 2023

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Boo Agee

Brings Professional Look to Tonsler Basketball League

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Vinegar Hill Magazine July 2023

Boo Agee is the content creator for the Tonsler Basketball League, and he is one of the people responsible for making the league a success.

Photo Credit: Steve ‘P.Funk’ Morris

Agee’s role in the league is to create and manage all of the league’s content, including live streams, recap videos, and social media posts. He also handles the set up and breakdown of the court on game days.

Agee believes that content is essential to the success of the Tonsler Basketball League. He says that the league has a lot of talented players. By providing live streams and recap videos, Agee makes it possible for fans to stay engaged with the league, even if they can’t be there in person.

“I love Tonsler because it allows me to see people that without Tonsler I might run into once or twice a year,” Agee said. “But with Tonsler I’m able to see those same people 2 times a week and interacting with them under Tonsler’s posts on social media. It really brings the community together.”

Agee is also proud of the fact that the Tonsler Basketball League has a professional look and feel. He says that the league’s content is on par with what you would see from a major professional basketball league.

“We try and make the league look, feel, and act as a Professional League,” Agee said. “We have every game live being color commentated by Eric Jones the voice of the jungle. We have a weekly talk show recapping every game and looking forward to every match up coming up.

There’s a schedule for the weekly content so fans, players, and coaches know what to expect and when to expect it.”

Agee is looking forward to continuing to grow the Tonsler Basketball League in the years to come. He is hoping to get an actual wifi router out in the park to have a stronger connection to bump up the quality and maybe add in extra angles and replays. He is also hoping to add some extra hands on to the team to help prepare and pump out all the content each week.

“But what I’m looking forward to the most are the new players that will join the league,” Agee said. “Tonsler started as basically a Charlottesville league, and now it has really transformed into a league for the whole state of Virginia with even some players traveling from neighboring states. It’s been a blessing to be able to be a part of something that has no ceilings.”

Agee is a valuable asset to the Tonsler Basketball League, and he is sure to continue to play a major role in the league’s success in the years to come.

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Vinegar Hill Magazine July 2023

The commissioner

wes bellamy talks about the 2023 tonsler league season The Tonsler Basketball League (TBL) saw a significant increase in attendance and engagement in its 2023 season, according to league commissioner Dr. Wes Bellamy.

Bellamy said that the league expanded from 8 to 12 teams this year, and also added a Jr. Tonsler League, Pewee Tonsler League, and Women’s Game. He said that the league also increased its social media engagement and implemented new referees and referee crews.

Photo Credit: Steve ‘P.Funk’ Morris

“I think the community enjoyed it overall, and for that reason, it made it all worth it,” Bellamy said. “We had people coming from all over the city, and even from out of state, to watch the games. The atmosphere at Tonsler Park was electric every night.”

Bellamy said that one of the most rewarding parts of being the commissioner of the TBL is seeing people from all over the community come together to enjoy competitive basketball. He said that the league also helps to reduce violence in the community.

“We saw a decrease in youth violence this summer. We saw a decrease in adult violence this summer,” Bellamy said. “We saw people come to the park and have a space in which they can truly be their most authentic selves without any drama. That’s what basketball is all about.” www.vinegarhillmagazine.com

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Bellamy said that the biggest obstacle the league faced this year was raising funds and resources. He said that the league is more or less a production, and productions cost money.

“However, it’s all worth it,” Bellamy said. “I truly feel like this is what God wants me to do in this season, so by being obedient, the tools are provided to do the work.”

Bellamy said that he is looking forward to growing the TBL in the future. He said that he would like to expand the Men’s league to 14 teams, include two in-season tournaments, shift the Jr. Tonsler League to two formal tournaments within the season and Championship weekend, grow the Pewee Tonsler League, and implement the Lady Tonsler League.

“I think we have room for improvement in terms of efficiency and creating an even better experience for our viewers online, and the people who come to the games in person,” Bellamy said. “From a player and coach perspective, I want to ensure that they always feel like they have a high quality experience every time they step on our court, so we will be making a few tweaks here and there.”

Bellamy said that the TBL is only going to get better in the years to come.

“We have a few more surprises for next year that we can’t quite share yet,” Bellamy said. “But trust me...this is only the beginning!”

In addition to the growth of the league, Bellamy also highlighted some of the individual achievements of players in the 2023 season.

He said that Supreme Skillz won the Men’s league championship, while the Jr. Tonsler League was won by the Jr. Bears. He also said that several players from the TBL were recruited to play college basketball.

“We’re really proud of the talent that we have in this league,” Bellamy said. “We’re also proud of the way that our players represent our community. They’re good athletes, but they’re also good people.”

The TBL is a major part of the summer basketball scene in Charlottesville. It provides a safe and fun space for people of all ages to come together and play basketball. Bellamy is committed to growing the league and making it even better in the years to come.

“We’re just getting started,” Bellamy said. “The TBL is going to be a force in the basketball community for years to come.”

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Vinegar Hill Magazine July 2023

Photo Credit: Steve ‘P.Funk’ Morris of Shad Gill creator of SVN7VII Brand offical designer of Tonsler League Uniforms

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Vinegar Hill Magazine July 2023

Supreme Skillz GM Damian

Gator Pettaway Reflects on

Championship Season Damian “Gator” Pettaway has been involved with the Tonsler Basketball League for many years, both as a player and as a coach. But this year, he took on a new role as the general manager of the Supreme Skillz.

Photo Credit: Steve ‘P.Funk’ Morris. Supreme Skillz ‘Gator’ (left)

Pettaway’s experience in the league gave him a unique perspective on how to build a championship team. He knew that he needed to recruit a group of talented players who were hungry to win. He also brought in a strong coaching staff that could help the team develop and improve.

But perhaps the most important thing Pettaway did was create a positive atmosphere within the team.

He wanted the players to feel like they were part of something special, and he wanted them to enjoy playing together.

The hard work paid off.

In an interview with us at Vinegar Hill Magazine, Pettaway reflected on his championship season.

“It feels great to be on top this summer,” Pettaway said. “It was a perfect way to end the summer. We beat a great team in a great game.” www.vinegarhillmagazine.com

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Pettaway also talked about the challenges of being a general manager in the Tonsler League.

“I recruited a little different,” Pettaway said. “As a player I can just work on my game, but managing the team has me up many late nights. I also have to make sure the talent matches, uniforms, getting my team in other leagues, managing egos, playing time, and also comes the expectations of putting a competitive team together.”

Despite the challenges, Pettaway said he enjoyed being the general manager of Supreme Skillz.

“Being crowned king of the summer is more valuable than anything here in Charlottesville,” Pettaway said. “We have so many high level players, bragging rights are more valued more than more to the hoopers here.”

Pettaway is looking forward to coming back and trying to repeat as champions next year.

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Vinegar Hill Magazine July 2023

Photo Credit: Steve ‘P.Funk’ Morris of Team Supreme Skillz

He knows that it won’t be easy, but he is confident that his team has what it takes to win.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the other teams try to improve, and the growth of the league,” Pettaway said.

“I think the Tonsler League is the best in VA.” Pettaway is a valuable asset to the Tonsler Basketball League. He is a skilled basketball player and a natural leader. Damian “Gator” Pettaway is a man of many talents. He is sure to continue to achieve great things in the years to come.

Photo Credit: Steve ‘P.Funk’ Morris of Tonsler Women’s League players

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Vinegar Hill Magazine July 2023

ariel ‘Ari’ Long Takes Tonsler Basketball

League to New Heights

Photo by Locs Image Photograpy: (From left: Jamar “Prospect P” Pierre, Michelle Christian, Jeezy, Ari, E. Jonez)

Ari is the Social Media Manager and League Coordinator for the Tonsler Basketball League, and she is one of the people responsible for making the league a success.

Ari’s role in the league is to help promote the league on social media and to coordinate the logistics of the games. She also works with the players and the staff to ensure that everyone has a positive experience. www.vinegarhillmagazine.com

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This year, the Tonsler Basketball League saw a significant increase in attendance and engagement.

Ari attributes this success to the league’s focus on quality and attention to detail.

“We’re not trying to copy anyone else,” Ari said. “We’re doing what works for us, and we’re putting a lot of time and energy into making sure that the league is the best it can be.”

Ari is particularly proud of the league’s social media presence.

She has created a visually appealing and engaging feed that has helped to attract new fans from all over the community.

“I love to make sure that what we visually put out is aesthetically pleasing and has been planned out,” Ari said. “I want people to see our posts and think, ‘Wow, this is a league that I want to be a part of.’”

Ari is also excited about the league’s plans for the future. She is looking forward to growing the league even more and getting more non-local sponsors.

“We’re on pace to take this thing to the Drew & Rucker level,” Ari said. “We’re going to grab the eye of the people, and we’re going to make a name for ourselves.”

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Vinegar Hill Magazine July 2023

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Eric “E. Jonez”

Jones Brings Energy to the live broadcast from tonsler

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Vinegar Hill Magazine July 2023

Eric “E. Jonez” Jones is the MC and live stream commentator for the Tonsler Basketball League, and he is one of the people responsible for making the league a success.

Jones’s role in the league is to hype up the crowd and provide commentary on the games. He is known for his energy and enthusiasm, and he always knows how to keep the fans entertained.

“I look forward to what teams and players are going to make an impact or a surprise run,” Jones said. “Every week is different u really never know in the Tonsler league, also a chance to showcase my ability to actually call a game. This has been a major that I look forward to doing every game!!”

Jones is also passionate about the positive impact that the Tonsler Basketball League has on the community.

He says that the league is a great way to bring people together and to promote healthy living.

city from kids all the way up to parents are excited to come and be a part of the Tonsler league every Thursday and Sunday. That is the most rewarding part of being a part of the Tonsler league for me.”

our production. It’s getting bigger and better every year giving u a real life NBA game feel but only mostly on the blacktop.”

Jones is looking forward to continuing to grow the Tonsler Basketball League in the years to come. He is excited to see the league reach new heights and to continue to make a positive impact on the community.

Photo Credit: Steve ‘P.Funk’ Morris

“Well I mean it’s a lot I am looking forward to as far as next season,” Jones said.

“For starters curious to see if Takeover can bounce back from straight finals defeats.

The potential return of the 2022 Champions Mamba Mentality, to see what are we gonna have in store for the people far as

“The most rewarding part is that we are actually doing something great and positive for the community,” Jones said. “The www.vinegarhillmagazine.com

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Kelz Richardson key to the team and focused on bringing the community together

K

elly “Kelz” Richardson is a staff member of the Tonsler Basketball League, and he is one of the people responsible for making the league a success.

Richardson’s role in the league is to help coordinate events and set up the venue.

He also works with the media team to ensure that the games are properly recorded and broadcasted.

This year, the Tonsler Basketball League saw a number of changes, including the introduction of new jerseys with a patch dedicated to Eldridge Smith, who passed away earlier this year. The league also brought in a number of celebrities, including Young Jeezy, Chris Long, and China Mac. Richardson says that he is most proud of the fact that the league has been able to bring people together from all over the community. He also enjoys seeing the relationships that have been formed between the players and the staff.

“It’s truly a great feeling to know that we’ve made a positive impact on the city,” Richardson said. “I’m grateful to Wes Bellamy for giving me the opportunity to be a part of something so special.”

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Vinegar Hill Magazine July 2023

Richardson is already looking forward to next season, when he hopes to see the league continue to grow and thrive. He is also planning to form a team with players from his hometown of Roanoke.

“I’m excited to see what the future holds for the Tonsler Basketball League,” Richardson said. “I know that we’re going to continue to do great things.”

Richardson is a valuable asset to the Tonsler Basketball League, and he is sure to continue to play a major role in the league’s success in the years to come.

Photos contributed by Kelly Richardson

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