C-VILLE Weekly | September 25 - October 1, 2024

A dearth of fresh food in Fifeville means all eyes are on 501 Cherry Ave.

Starved for attention

www.speaklanguagecenter.com

October 5-13th

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

READ LOCAL. WEAR LOCAL.

16 Real Estate Weekly: Recent Fifeville real-estate transactions

CULTURE 33

35 Tried it in C’ville: Sunsets and fall food trucks on Carter Mountain.

36 On Stage: STRFKR with Holy Wave and Happy Sad Face.

37 The Works: Alice Wesley Ivory’s sculptures at JSAAHC.

40 Sudoku 41 Crossword 43 Free Will Astrology

The candidates running to fill the Rio District school board seat. A closer look at UVA’s free-speech policies.

CLASSIFIEDS 44 P.S. 46

Tuesday Evening Concert Series’ David Baldwin in the HotSeat.

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EDITORIAL

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Caite Hamilton editor@c-ville.com

CULTURE EDITOR

Tami Keaveny tami@c-ville.com

NEWS REPORTER

Catie Ratliff reporter@c-ville.com

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CM Turner arts@c-ville.com

COPY EDITOR

Susan Sorensen

CONTRIBUTORS

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

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Thank you for reading C-VILLE Weekly.

9.25.24

In preparation for this week’s cover story, C-VILLE’s art director and I took a field trip to the Albemarle Charlottesville Historical Society to thumb through photos that would accompany Sean Tubbs’ piece on Fifeville. Despite having interacted for years via email with the kind folks who run the historical society, I realized I’d never actually stepped foot in the building, and what a treat it was. Now, I wouldn’t call myself a history nut, but I would call myself a sentimental fool, so sitting down with boxes of ephemera from the neighborhood—snapshots of residents on their front porches, black-and-whites of the sparse intersection at West Main and Fifth, pictures of well-known buildings—was thrilling, even if I had such little context for what I was viewing. That’s really what this week’s feature boils down to—context. Woodard Properties purchased 501 Cherry Ave., home of the former Estes IGA, in 2022, with plans to construct an apartment building. At face value, that seems like just another real estate acquisition. But the deeper story, which you’ll read on p.26, is that for years Estes was a centerpiece of the neighborhood’s predominantly Black community, giving residents a gathering place—and a place to access fresh food. With the site’s uncertain future, many who live in Fifeville feel that the entire neighborhood’s future is uncertain, too.

“I’m a woman. Do you think I would vote for somebody who is a misogynist, or somebody that is trying to harm us?”

Melissa Robey, who helped organize a pro-Donald Trump rally at Trump Winery on September 21, told NBC29 at the event.

NEWS

On the trail

Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff will join University of Virginia law school students for a voter protection training on September 25. Emhoff’s visit to Charlottesville is his latest appearance for the Harris-Walz campaign in the lead up to Election Day, Tuesday, November 5. Early voting began in the commonwealth on September 20, and continues through November 2.

Barracks businesses

Three new businesses are coming to Barracks Road Shopping Center next year, following two recent openings at the complex, Monkee’s and Alumni Hall. Salon chain Drybar and shoe store Appalachian Running Company are expected to open their doors in early 2025, with pizzeria Emmy Squared coming in the spring.

Over and out

Construction of a pedestrian bridge across U.S. 29 will shift lanes on southbound Seminole Trail. Work on the pedestrian bridge began September 24 and is the latest in a series of planned Virginia Department of Transportation improvements in the area of U.S. 29 and Hydraulic Road. The bridge will be located near the intersection of U.S. 29 and Zan Road.

Final sale

The sale of Carlton Mobile Home Park officially closed on September 20, preventing the displacement of hundreds of residents. Habitat for Humanity of Greater Charlottesville took over management of the community the same day. With the finalization of the sale, Habitat and Piedmont Housing Alliance can move forward in their collaboration with residents of the affordable housing community—the Habitat Carlton Alliance. According to a joint release, HCA is forming a resident council that will

Penciled in

A seat on the Albemarle County School Board is up for grabs in upcoming special election

By Catie Ratliff reporter@c-ville.com

It’s election season, but the presidential and congressional races aren’t the only contests on the ballot November 5. Albemarle County is holding

a special election for now-Delegate Katrina Callsen’s remaining year as the Rio District’s school board representative.

The district, which spans from just north of the city into Earlysville, includes Agnor, Broadus Wood, and Woodbrook elementaries, Lakeside Middle, and Albemarle High School. The candidates—Chuck Pace and Jim Dillenbeck—are both longtime Charlottesville-area residents with backgrounds in local education, having previously coached football together at Albemarle

“advise Habitat on property management decisions and serve as leaders with the Carlton Mobile Home Park community.”

Under conditions of the sale, CMHP must remain a mobile home park for at least three years. In the interim, the HCA is kicking off discussions with community members.

“The work starts now,” said Habitat President and CEO Dan Rosensweig. “We are sitting down one on one with each family to get to know them and to learn about their dreams and aspirations.”

Chuck Pace

Jim Dillenbeck

Barracks Road Shopping Center

Out loud

UVA touts free speech on Grounds while continuing to restrict student organizers

By Catie Ratliff reporter@c-ville.com

Charges against student protesters arrested May 4 have been dropped, but the University of Virginia continues to grapple with protections for and restrictions on freedom of speech. While celebrating its status as the No.1 campus for free speech in the nation, UVA is cracking down on students’ ability to demonstrate on Grounds.

Prior to the start of fall semester, the university updated its rules governing “demonstrations and access to shared spaces” on Grounds. Through these changes, UVA has not only deemed any form of encampment against university policy, but outlined a willingness to escalate to trespass warnings and arrest for noncompliance.

Key changes to demonstration policy include: expanding the definition of the Academical Village, which is subject to additional demonstration restrictions; banning outdoor events on Grounds, including demonstrations, between 2 and 6am; prohibiting camping, with or without a tent, in outdoor spaces; prohibiting sleeping outside between midnight and 6am; and requiring any person wearing a face covering to provide identification if requested by a UVA official.

Students who fail to comply with UVA policy after being informed of a violation can face disciplinary action including “the issuance of an interim suspension by Student Affairs and a trespass warning

by law enforcement. Failure to abide by the trespass warning will result in arrest. Every reasonable effort will be made to resolve the matter at the lowest possible level without the involvement of law enforcement.”

UVA’s policies on protests, demonstrations, and gatherings on university property, which include potential consequences for policy violations, can be found at freespeech.virginia.edu/policies-regulations.

Earlier this month, UVA officials demonstrated a willingness to both enforce these new policies and call university police for peaceful noncompliance. According to The Daily Progress, on September 12, Associate Vice President for Student Affairs Marsh Pattie informed students on the Lawn making signs calling for divestment that their use of a folding table violated policy, and asked a student wearing a mask to provide ID.

When the student did not identify themself, Pattie threatened to contact university police. The situation deescalated when the student left the area and the table was taken down. The table was briefly set up again in front of a Lawn room with the permission of its resident, but was deconstructed again when Pattie returned with another official.

In the midst of the implementation of new rules and a crackdown on peaceful organizing, UVA was named the top college for free speech in the nation on September 5 by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression.

“FIRE considered several factors, including students’ perceived ability to have difficult conversations, their comfort expressing views on controversial topics and perceptions of their administration’s support for free speech,” wrote University News Senior Associate Jane Kelly in a UVAToday article highlighting the announcement. “The topranked colleges have the highest average score among all students surveyed and have the most open environments for free speech.”

For student and faculty organizers, the announcement, and UVA’s public celebration of free speech on Grounds, was deeply ironic.

“If they’re so proud of [the FIRE ranking], then I think [UVA] should roll back the new protest guidelines and start to really listen to faculty and students,” said Laura Goldblatt, assistant professor and faculty liaison for pro-Palestine student protesters, in an interview with C-VILLE. “If they’re so proud of their rankings, then they should follow through on the actions that those rankings might require of them. Instead of using them as a publicity tool, they should use them as a way to guide their decisions about policy.”

Calculated through more than 58,000 surveys, FIRE’s 2025 College Free Speech Rankings considered data collected from students between January 25 and June 17 this year. Beyond surveys, schools were not further penalized for actions related to encampment protests, according to Chief Research Advisor Sean Stevens.

“This decision was made because many schools were likely dealing with a complicated mix of protected and unprotected speech, so accurately adjudicating each individual incident that may or may not have made one of our databases would’ve been impossible,” said Stevens in an email. He further highlighted a footnote from the report, noting that, “The impact of the encampment protests on the campus speech climate is captured by responses to survey questions that ask students about their confidence that their college administration protects speech rights on campus, their comfort expressing controversial political views, and how frequently they self-censor. Deplatformings that occurred during the encampment protests were also still included in the calculation of the 2025 College Free Speech Rankings.”

Laura Beltz, director of policy reform for FIRE, said UVA’s updated demonstration policies will be reviewed as part of the nonprofit’s annual speech code report in January.

“If they’re so proud of [the FIRE ranking], then I think [UVA] should roll back

protest guidelines and start to really listen to faculty and students.”

Criminal and disciplinary charges have been dropped against protesters arrested at UVA on May 4.

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High School in the ’90s. Pace and Dillenbeck find common ground in their desire to increase support for teachers and improve student outcomes, but differ on other issues.

Appointed to the seat last December, Pace says he has “a pretty positive outlook on the schools right now. When I go into them, I do see pretty cool stuff going on, really, and that doesn’t matter if it’s elementary school or middle school or high school.”

“No question that we have things that we’re struggling with,” he adds. “That’s always true.”

Academic achievement, attendance, and behavior have emerged as challenges—locally and nationwide—since returning to in-person instruction following the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We’ve seen deficits, kids who are just coming to the next grade level, but not knowing what they would expect them to at that grade level,” says Pace. “They have created pacing guides for our teachers … tests that are given quarterly to help track progress of students—and that’s making a difference. … We have to figure out where the deficits are so we can address them.”

In addition to pacing guides, ACPS is currently working to implement a new reading curriculum. Pace is excited about the materials, but concerned that the rapid implementation required by Gov. Glenn Youngkin is contributing to teacher burnout.

“Once teachers get through the stressful period of mastering the tools … their lives will probably get easier over the long haul,” he says. “I know it’s really stressing some of our teachers out.”

Teacher and staff support is top of mind for Pace, who has worked as an educator and science coordinator for almost three decades. The school board is Pace’s primary job as he was in the midst of a health-related career pause at the time of his appointment.

Dillenbeck is less optimistic about the current state of education in Albemarle County.

“As a former teacher and having raised four kids and seeing them through school … my concern is for the kids in the neighborhood and the kids in our community who don’t have some of the opportunities that we had,” says Dillenbeck, who was inspired to run after a conversation with former school board candidate Meg Bryce last year.

While he’s been out of the education system for more than 25 years, Dillenbeck believes his two-plus decades in business could benefit the board. “In the business world, we talk a lot about measuring success and addressing areas of weakness in business,” he says. “I’m afraid that if we apply the same standard of success or failure to the schools, what we would see is that the schools are failing.”

Dillenbeck, who works as a financial advisor for Northwestern Mutual in Charlottesville, is concerned about low test scores and achievement gaps at several of the elementary schools in the Rio District. Scores at Woodbrook Elementary are consistently below both district and state averages, with significant achievement gaps for Black students, economically disadvantaged students, and students with disabilities.

According to data from the Virginia Department of Education, only 46 percent of Woodbrook students passed state English assessments last school year, compared to a pass rate of 75 percent in Albemarle County and 73 percent statewide. The pass rate for state English assessments at Woodbrook has also declined over the last three years, decreasing from 53 percent in the 2021-22 school year to 48 percent in 2022-23.

Beyond academic achievement, Dillenbeck also wants to improve teacher and staff support, school safety, career preparation, and communication between teachers, families, administrators, and the school board. In each of these areas, he supports increasing resources, with particular emphasis on retaining teachers through salary increases and additional support and safety personnel.

“I believe that the teachers … they’re the front line workers, and if they feel supported by the administration and empowered to enforce the rules on behavior, rules on cell phone use, then the school system is going to be operating at a good level,” says Dillenbeck. “We need to have a school resource officer, in my opinion, in every high school and in every middle school in the county.”

Regardless of which candidate wins, the Rio District school board seat will be up for grabs again next fall. More information about the Rio District candidates can be found on their campaign websites.

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Katrina Callsen resigned from the Albemarle County School Board last fall to focus on her campaign for a seat in the Virginia House of Delegates.

The 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival

An Invitation to Transform the way we think, live, and lead.

Dear C-Ville Community Builders, Visionaries, and Fun-fueled Future Catalysts,

We’re announcing the 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival, April 16-20, 2025. Our April celebration of music, art, and ideas connects us over a magical week to bridge divides, have fun, and innovate toward a brighter tomorrow.

This year our theme is EVOLVE.

EVOLVE is about transforming the way we think, live, and lead. It’s about adapting to change—whether as individuals, communities, businesses, or societies—and growing stronger in the process.

EVOLVE speaks to one of life’s fundamental realities, in order to thrive, we must adapt. It’s an optimistic theme, but not a simple one.

What we once were, is not who we must be. We can take a painful past, changing circumstances, and challenging realities, to become something stronger and more resilient. But change is unsettling, and it can be scary. Evolving demands real courage -alongside bold dashes of humility, empathy, intelligence, discipline, and determination.

These values speak to the fact that as humans we have the unique privilege of actively contributing to and understanding our evolution. Examining our lives, our businesses, our community, or even our democracy, we may actually see where we are stuck, where we are fearful, and where change is needed. And if we have observed closely enough, we may see what’s next.

We believe the week of Tom Tom, when so many communities come together in joyful connection, is the perfect time to pose these questions about our shared future. It’s a moment in our civic imagination when we hit pause on the normal day-to-day, and start evolving; together.

EVOLVE Starts with YOU!

Please consider this the first of many invitations to co-create the 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival. The Festival is the culmination of a year’s worth of collaboration with countless local organizations, artists, and visionaries.

Here are four questions we hope you will consider with us over these next months:

How would you like to evolve? How is your organization evolving? Where should Charlottesville evolve? What does it mean for our nation to evolve?

Choosing an annual theme has been a tradition since the pandemic. As we lean into the notion that Tom Tom is a Festival about the Future of Community, our Themes have helped us communicate with Charlottesville, Albemarle and communities beyond, about the intentions -- and possibilities! -- of the Festival.

Co-Create EVOLVE with us!

We will be exploring EVOLVE at the Festival through 200+ programs, sessions, and performances. A vast majority of those are co-created and co-curated during a year of planning that empowers hundreds of stakeholders to bring their vision forward.

This Co-Creation happens through official and unofficial means. With the launch of EVOLVE -- we are opening up our Community Partner Program and our EVOLVE Conference Creator.

These two crowd-sourced initiatives allow engaged leaders to craft the EVOLVE message directly. The Community Partner Program is an opportunity for you to bring a new initiative you’d like to showcase, or a workshop, talk, concert, performance or open house you’d like to contribute.

Or if you’d like to contribute a session at the conference and explore how EVOLVE is shaping technology, entrepreneurship, society, or wellness, that invitation is open. Bring your passions to the table!

Join a Community Meeting!

We are also opening our annual series of Public Interest Meetings to spark conversations and get ideas brewing for the Festival. These sessions include a presentation on the Festival and Theme, but are primarily designed to connect attendees and start the process of co-creation.

Wed. Sep. 25 at 6pm General Interest

Wed. Oct. 2 at 6pm Community Partner Program

Tues. Oct. 15 at 12pm EVOLVE Conference

Wed. Oct. 30 at 6pm Performers and Artists

So let’s start that conversation, please tell us what EVOLVE means to you.

Bring on TOMORROW!

Now the Festival is launched, we’re full speed ahead. Can’t wait to see what our community creates in the months for our biggest Tom Tom yet!

Annie Gould Gallery

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Market moves

Major real estate transactions taking place this month in Fifeville

By Sean Tubbs

As planning and negotiations continue over a grocery story at 501 Cherry Ave., major transactions continue to take place in the Fifeville neighborhood.

On September 9, the firm Neighborhood Investments paid $2.24 million for an undeveloped property between Roosevelt Brown Boulevard and Ninth Street SW. There have been several development projects associated with the land, owned by the Piedmont Housing Alliance, on two occasions.

The Piedmont Housing Alliance sold the 0.56-acre property in March 2016 for $1.19 million. The previous owner filed a site plan amendment in 2020 for 24 residential units and about 11,000 square feet of commercial space, which was never approved. Since then, Charlottesville City Council has adopted a small area plan for Cherry Avenue that discouraged tall buildings in order to preserve the character of surrounding neighborhoods.

As a result, the city’s new zoning code classified the undeveloped Ninth Street lot as Commercial Mixed Use 3, which sets a base height limit of three stories but an additional two stories are allowed if the project has affordable units that qualify it for bonus space. That is different from other corridors in Charlottesville, such as Barracks Road and Fifth Street Extended, which allow up to 10 stories to encourage shopping centers to redevelop at maximum density.

Richard Spurzem of Neighborhood Properties said in an email he was not sure if he would proceed with the existing site plan or start fresh.

This past March, Ronald McDonald House of Charlottesville bought a former auto repair business at 316 Ninth St. SW for $700,000. The nonprofit owns two nearby lots and has not yet decided how it will use its new property.

The city’s public housing agency is planning to purchase two properties several blocks away on Fifth Street SW to preserve them for affordable housing. There are multiple buildings at both locations, and the Charlottesville Redevelopment and Housing Authority wants to buy them for $2.2 million.

“The acquisition of this portfolio will allow CRHA to preserve the naturally occurring affordable housing units while giving CRHA the ability to redevelop the property to provide additional housing units soon,” reads a resolution adopted by the CRHA Board of Commissioners on September 23.

The acquisition continues a trend of CRHA purchasing property, including several Fifeville properties that were part of a $10 million purchase from Woodard Properties in August 2023, to expand its portfolio.

Meanwhile, single-family homes still sell at a premium in Fifeville. On September 4, 2024, a two-bedroom house at 223 Fourth St. SW sold for $585,000, well above the 2024 assessment of $376,000. There’s also an accessory dwelling on the property.

On September 18, a single-family attached home in the Orangedale subdivision at 705 Prospect Ave. sold for $296,500. That’s over 39 percent above the 2024 assessment of $212,900.

For more about what’s happening in the Fifeville neighborhood, turn to this week’s feature story on page 26.

Neighborhood Investments purchased this half acre lot in Fifeville for $2.24 million, the latest high-profile purchase in the Cherry Avenue area.

SEAN TUBBS

BENTIVAR MANOR

Exquisite brick home on 88 acres less than 5 miles from city limits. Residence is in excellent condition, 7-BR & 11,000+ sf. Property is a mix of pastures & woods with long frontage on the Rivanna River, & miles of trails. MLS#652353 $4,875,000 Jim Faulconer, 434.981.0076 or Will Faulconer, 434.987.9455

HIGH FIELDS

Scenic 42-acre farm 10 miles from Charlottesville. Features pastures, woodlands, serene creek, antique farmhouse, updated kitchen, 3-BA, 4-BR, and panoramic Blue Ridge Mountain vistas, and substantial barn. MLS#651245 $1,695,000 Jim Faulconer, 434.981.0076 or Will Faulconer, 434.987.9455

FRAYS MILL

Wooded 81.395-acre preservation tract near Frays Mill Subdivision in Albemarle Co., 6 mi from Charlottesville Airport, shops, restaurants. Ideal for recreation, agriculture, and private home with mountain views. MLS#651664 $995,000 Jim Faulconer, 434.981.0076 or Will Faulconer, 434.987.9455

BAILEY’S QUARTERS

One level living with full basement, two acres and a spectacular view of Buck Mountain and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Home is 10 miles northwest of Charlottesville near Free Union. MLS#654595 $525,000 Jim Faulconer, 434.981.0076 or Will Faulconer, 434.987.9455

FIELDS OF BOAZ

A country French estate on 24 acres 6 miles from the University of Virginia. Timeless charm and modern luxury with soaring ceilings, spacious primary suite, home office, wine cellar, guest quarters, and private pond. MLS#652608

$3,995,000 Court Nexsen, 646.660.0700

HISTORIC STAUNTON

Meticulously renovated National Historic Register home, blending modern amenities with remarkable charm. 5-bedrooms with hardwood floors, stained glass windows, and trim. Quartz kitchen, magnificent primary suite, terrace apartment. MLS#653080 $1,295,000 Court Nexsen, 646.660.0700

CRAIGS STORE RD

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of western Albemarle, this 76 acre parcel offers compelling views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, diverse terrain, and multiple estate-caliber building sites. 2 miles from Batesville Market, 15 miles from Charlottesville. Not under conservation easement. MLS#652337 $$975,000 Court Nexsen, 646.660.0700

CHERRY HILL TOWNHOME

Exceptional brick, end-unit in popular Cherry Hill! Walk to the University of Virginia Hospital and Grounds. This 3-level features a beautiful gardener’s fenced yard. Elegant entry, open floor plan, owner’s suite, and 2 guest beds. 1stfloor bonus room and garage! MLS#655503

$515,000 Katherine Leddington, 646.593.0333

MEADOW

FARM

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

$2,985,000 Charlotte Dammann, 434.981.1250

THE HOLSINGER

Exceptional 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath condo, located just steps from the historic Downtown Mall. Luxurious living spaces, spacious floor plan, fully loaded kitchen, hardwood floors, a private balcony, and secure parking. Enjoy vibrant downtown living! MLS#656160 $1,200,000 Jim Faulconer, 434.981.0076 or Will Faulconer, 434.987.9455

HOLLY HILL

Charming cottage on 3+ acres in Ivy! Light-filled with living, dining, kitchen, sunroom, study, primary BR, bath, second BR on main floor. Lower level has bonus room, BR & bath. Recently updated floors, roof, sunroom tile. Private deck, mature landscaping, pond, Fiber Optic available. MLS#655171 $598,000 Charlotte Dammann, 434.981.1250

KESWICK ESTATE

Nestled near Keswick Hall lies Keswick Estate, a gated community offering a 2.10± acre building site blending country life with resort living in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Build your dream home minutes from amenities like golf, dining, tennis, and more. MLS#650785 $470,000 Court Nexsen, 646.660.0700

•

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O P E N M A R K

There are no places on Cherry Avenue or West Main Street where residents of the Fifeville neighborhood can walk to buy fresh ingredients to prepare nutritious meals, but Aleen Carey doesn’t want you to call the area a food desert.

“A desert is a naturally occurring state,” said Carey, the co-executive director of Cultivate Charlottesville.

“Not having any grocery stores or Black-owned businesses or the food access that the community wants, that is not naturally occurring. That is man-made. So instead of a food desert, we call it a food apartheid.”

That term was coined by New York food justice activist Karen Washington to draw attention to the interconnections between access to food and other socioeconomic and health inequities.

Cultivate Charlottesville formed in 2020 when local organizations Food Justice Network, Urban Agriculture Collective of Charlottesville, and City Schoolyard Garden merged to put a more intentional focus on those interconnections at the local level.

The nonprofit is active on many fronts including administering the city’s Food Equity Initiative, trying to secure new garden space in Washington Park—and assisting with a broader effort to bring a community grocery store to Fifeville. Woodard Properties, the new owner of 501 Cherry Ave., agreed in September 2023 to provide space for one as part of a rezoning.

But to make the idea a reality, the community will have to organize.

Buy back the block?

Carey was one member of an August 24 panel discussion at the Jefferson School African American Heritage Center, an event the Fifeville Neighborhood Association organized for the public to learn more about the opportunities on Cherry Avenue.

Deanna McDonald of RN Heartwork is partnering with the Fifeville Neighborhood Association to increase awareness of the space.

“I come to this project as it relates [to] health equity, food equity, and food security,” McDonald told the crowd of about a hundred people.

For decades, Estes Market at 501 Cherry Ave. served as a place to buy fresh food, but people who lived in the area in the late 20th century said the market played a much larger role.

“Estes was more than just a grocery store,” said Sarad Davenport, a longtime resident of Fifeville who served as moderator of August’s Buy Back the Block event. “It was a community center. In fact, I learned how to play chess in Estes’ parking lot.”

Davenport is the host of “Can I Talk To You, C-Ville?,” a series of programs put on by Vinegar Hill Magazine, including one held September 23 that illuminated more details on the status of negotiations for how the space might be operated as a grocery.

Dorenda Johnson has lived in the neighborhood for 55 years and remembers more than just Estes Market.

“I can remember on Fifth Street there was Bell’s Store and Allen’s Store and down the street on Cherry Avenue was Estes [IGA],” she said. “All of those neighborhoods around those stores were predominantly Black neighborhoods and it was bustling and busy.”

Andrea Douglas, the Heritage Center’s executive director, said there was a time when owner-

ship of commercial businesses was more diverse in central Charlottesville.

“There were seven grocery stores run by Black people in this community,” Douglas said.

One of those, at 333 W. Main St., was run by George Inge, whose establishment was a pillar of the community from 1891 to 1979 (and stands today as Tavern & Grocery restaurant). The structure built in 1820 survived the razing of Vinegar Hill and Garrett Street while many others, like Allen’s Store, did not.

According to research conducted by journalist Jordy Yager, Allen’s Store opened on Sixth Street SE in 1944 and closed when the property was taken by eminent domain as part of the Garrett Street urban renewal project in the 1970s, leading to the creation of what would become known as Friendship Court. Its owners, Kenneth Walker Allen and Dorothy Mae Murray Allen, would later relocate their business to the Rose Hill neighborhood in the space that is now home to MarieBette Café and Bakery.

Douglas said efforts to bring a new grocery store to serve the neighborhood is part of a long movement to restore what was lost during urban renewal.

When she was a child, Johnson said she would spend her days in Tonsler Park walking to and from what is now Prospect Avenue. Her parents worked hard to buy their own house, as did so many others.

“Now when I go through those neighborhoods it’s very discouraging and I see it’s no longer the predominantly Black neighborhoods,” Johnson said. “We have $700,000 homes that were bought for barely half of that. What would our parents say?”

After Emancipation, many people enslaved in Albemarle County and on plantations, such as the Oak Lawn estate on Cherry Avenue, would settle in a Charlottesville that was growing in the late 19th century.

How a coalition is trying

to return Black grocery store ownership to Charlottesville

By Sean Tubbs

E T

“After the [Civil] war, a number of folks who were enslaved there moved into what is the Fifeville neighborhood,” said Jalane Schmidt, an associate professor of religious studies at UVA. This included figures such as Benjamin Tonsler, who had been born into servitude in Earlysville in 1854. After receiving an education in Hampton, Tonsler returned to Charlottesville and became a leader in the community along with Inge. Another group, called the Piedmont Industrial and Land Improvement Company, was formed in the last decade of the 19th century to promote Black ownership of real property. They did so through the Four Hundreds Club, an informal group of Black families belonging to the middle class, who purchased lots of land priced at $400.

Borrowing a phrase from food justice activist Karen Washington, Cultivate Charlottesville’s Aleen Carey says the lack of access to fresh produce in Fifeville has caused a “food apartheid.”

“There is a direct connection between emancipation, personal economy, land ownership, entrepreneurship, and food security,” Schmidt said. “How to put those pieces together that have been shattered is the question that we’re dealing with now.”

Redeveloping the Estes Market

Woodard Properties bought 501 Cherry Ave. in August 2022 for $3.5 million, the latest in a series of purchases the company has made in the area in recent years. Woodard is partnering with the Piedmont Housing Alliance to build 71 apartment units that will be rented to households with incomes below 60 percent of the area’s median income.

One condition of a rezoning granted by City Council in September 2023 is that a portion of the property be set aside for the Music Resource Center as well as an area that would be reserved for a very specific reason.

“Owner agrees to reserve a minimum of 5,000 square feet of commercial space at the Property for lease to a small grocery store or neighborhood grocery store that sells fresh produce,” reads binding language in the rezoning agreement. “The space will be reserved exclusively for a grocery store use until the issuance of any certificate of occupancy for the Project.”

Anthony Woodard, CEO of Woodard Properties, says that means the space will be held for someone to either buy or lease it from the company. Anyone who wants to operate a grocery would need to come up with the funding to get the space ready.

“We are building a commercial shell for a grocery market, which would not include interior construction, furnishings, or equipment specific

to the grocery’s operation, because a grocery operator has specific needs that they know best,” Woodard said in an email.

Woodard said the total cost is estimated at around $50 million to construct the two buildings that make up the project.

The City of Charlottesville continues to review the preliminary site plan for the project, an iterative process designed to make sure that the building will be up to code.

City Council has signaled a willingness to provide $3.15 million in direct funding for the housing portion of the project over the next two years.

The Piedmont Housing Alliance applied this year for $1.285 million in low-income housing tax credits but did not make the cut in a crowded field of applicants.

Sunshine Mathon, executive director of PHA, said there are alternative funding options that might allow construction to get underway within the next 15 months.

“We have other funding pathways we are pursuing that I am optimistic about, and would allow us to still start construction in 2025,” Mathon said in an email. “Everyone on the team is working diligently to make this happen.”

Woodard said that to cover the full costs, rent will likely need to be higher than market rate unless an operating subsidy can be identified.

Davenport cautioned against rushing ahead too fast with the project without doing true community engagement.

“Sometimes you can think you are doing the right thing but you haven’t really listened to people, and then you end up doing something that’s catastrophic and you look 40 years later and it’s like, that was a tragedy,” she said. “It did more harm than good.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 29

Once a booming grocery store, Estes Foodliner stands now as a shell of its former self.

OPENMARKET

The grocery store at 501 Cherry Ave. was once a bustling centerpiece of the Fifeville community.

“In fact, I learned how to play chess in Estes’ parking lot,” says resident Sarad Davenport.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27

Elsewhere on Cherry Avenue

Woodard Properties owns a good portion of Cherry Avenue, having slowly acquired real estate along the roadway over the years. That includes the Cherry Avenue Shopping Center, which the company purchased for $1.9 million in April 2021, and the undeveloped parking lot across the street, bought in July of that year for $1.55 million. The Blackowned Royalty Eats catering company operates out of the shopping center and served food at the August 24 event. Woodard said there are no plans to do anything with these locations beyond what’s already been done; the company refurbished the shopping center soon after purchasing it.

The Salvation Army owns two properties on Cherry Avenue, including its storefront and a lot where a fast food restaurant used to stand. There are three stand-alone convenience stores in addition to a fourth inside the Cherry Avenue Shopping Center. Each store is owned by a different entity and none offer fresh produce.

The fog over the future of 21st-century Fifeville cleared a little in October 2023 when the University of Virginia purchased the 5.2-acre Oak Lawn estate belonging to the Fife family, whose name has been appended to the whole neighborhood. The UVA Health system will soon begin a community engagement effort for the future of that property as well as land to the north, which it purchased in August 2016.

As part of the Memory Project initiative, Schmidt and her students have researched the Oak Lawn estate and found that James Fife enslaved at least 22 men, women, and children by the time of emancipation. More than 100 years later, expansion of the UVA Medical Center displaced people who had settled in the predominantly Black neighborhood of Gospel Hill, a neighborhood that no longer exists, reducing the number of people who could walk to places like Estes Market and other Black-owned businesses.

“Land use and food security are tied to one another and that means listening to the community and folks in the community who remember what things were like when there were these hubs,” Schmidt said.

Carey said one purpose of both Cultivate Charlottesville and the Food Justice Network is to ask people what it would take to achieve food equity. She said that will take Black ownership.

“As we’re talking about 501 Cherry Ave. right now, and who might own that building or who might own the business there, one of the key pieces is, will that be a person of color?” Carey said. “Will that be somebody Black who can restore some of that community wealth building to the area?”

The Fifeville Neigh borhood Association is seeking to educate the public on three potential models for ownership of the store. One would be a traditional model where the business own ers take on all of the risks of the enterprise.

Another would be a nonprofit model, and a third would be a cooper ative-ownership model where members of the store would govern its operations. To that end, a group called the Charlot tesville Community Food Co-Op is being formed.

Mathon is hopeful the grocery space can be come part of the residen tial development, a value-add that could attract additional funds for the overall project.

“I am working actively to pursue resources for the grocery as I see a direct positive benefit to have the grocery on-site for our future residents,” he said.

Neighborhood skepticism

Many in the Fifeville neighborhood are dubious about why a new apartment building is planned for 501 Cherry Ave. They’re also wary of the name attached to the project.

“Just the name Woodard … It is not a name that a lot of people think much of, me being one if I’m being honest,” Johnson said. “You just constantly see take. They just seem to take. They’ve infiltrated all of those neighborhoods.”

Johnson said nearby residents already suffer the impacts of traffic congestion and a new apartment building will make things worse.

“Cherry Avenue from anywhere between 3pm and 6pm. is a total nightmare,” Johnson said, adding that many continue to have fears Tonsler Park will be taken for private use.

At the moment, the city’s Parks & Recreation Department is soliciting feedback for future amenities for the park, which is owned by the City of Charlottesville. The current year budget for the Commonwealth of Virginia granted $250,000 to the city to assist with the Tonsler Basketball League, now run by former city councilor Wes Bellamy.

Schmidt said part of the conversation needs to be about returning to the spirit of the Four Hundreds Club and making sure there’s an effort to keep Black property owners in place and stop the turnover that has been occurring for decades.

who’s selling these,” Schmidt said. “We have folks in the neighborhood that you remember that were pillars of the community but their children don’t live here any more. And when mom and dad die, they come back to settle the estate.”

According to Schmidt, one solution would be to establish incentives for sales to community organizations like PHA. The Piedmont Community Land Trust, a local nonprofit that works to secure affordable housing options in the area, has been purchasing properties in the Orangedale section of the neighborhood to offer homeownership opportunities.

Carey said she is not an expert on housing, but said these conversations are crucial to finding solutions.

“There are three different things going on Cherry Avenue right now: if you’re looking at the park, if you’re looking at 501 Cherry, and if you’re looking at Oak Lawn,” Carey said. “How do you have a conversation that pulls those together so things aren’t done individually?”

Carey said that should include conversations with other neighborhoods affected by the same pressures such as Rose Hill, Ridge Street, and 10th and Page.

City Council adopted a small area plan for Cherry Avenue in March 2021, the same meeting at which they adopted a new affordable housing plan. The small area plan called for an analysis of renovations and teardowns of existing stock, but it’s not clear if the city has conducted that work. The new zoning code designates the road as Commercial Mixed Use 3 in part because of the advocacy of the Fifeville Neighborhood Association.

EZE AMOS

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Serving the University Community

We carry Authorized University of Virginia Jewelry – Watches –Charms – Cufflinks - Earrings

Bulova watches, 14k, Sterling, Platinum Jewelry, Jewelry &Watch Repair, Engraving, Pearl Restringing Watch Battery Replacement

Jefferson Cups, Virginia Cups, Revere Bowls, Pewter ItemsMade in Virginia

We carry Authorized University of Virginia Jewelry – Watches –Charms – Cufflinks - Earrings

Serving the University Community

Bulova watches, 14k, Sterling, Platinum Jewelry, Jewelry &Watch Repair, Engraving, Pearl Restringing Watch Battery Replacement

Jefferson Cups, Virginia Cups, Revere Bowls, Pewter ItemsMade in Virginia

We carry Authorized University of Virginia Jewelry – Watches –Charms – Cufflinks - Earrings

Bowls, Pewter ItemsMade in Virginia

We carry Authorized University of Virginia Jewelry – Watches – Charms Cufflinks — Earrings

CULTURE

SUNDAY 9/29

WOOT WOOT!

Constant innovators and masters of expansive sonic resonance, Victor Wooten & The Wooten Brothers have been breaking sound barriers since they were young, redefining the limits of bluegrass, funk, jazz, R&B, rock, and soul. Five-time Grammy Award-winning bass player and vocalist Victor is joined by siblings Joseph, Roy, and Regi on keys, drums, and guitar, respectively. Together, the Wooten brothers bring decades of experience to bear in their super-funky, high-energy live performances. This tour marks the first time the brothers have played together as a band since the untimely death of their saxophonist sibling Rudy in 2010. $35–105, 8pm. The Jefferson Theater, 110 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. jeffersontheater.com

FRIDAY 9/27

FOR THE RECORD

Richmond-based rock ‘n’ roll outfit Prabir Trio infuses its tunes with sounds from India in an East-meets-West mashup of musical stylings. Fronted by Prabir Mehta (guitar/vocals), with Kelli Strawbridge (drums), Jeremy Flax (bass), and Kenneka Cook (harmony vocals) rounding out the roster, Prabir Trio releases its second studio album Long After the Empire this week. Recorded at Mountainside Studio in Charlottesville, the record carries influences from chants and prayers, Indian raga, and Southern gospel, all interwoven with driving rock. Dürty Nelly’s, 2200 Jefferson Park Ave. durtynellyscharlottesville.com

WEDNESDAY 9/25

SHEAR DELIGHT

It’s a tale as old as time: An eccentric inventor builds a boy, gives him scissors for hands, dies, and leaves the boy alone in a castle high on a hill. Discovered by a kindly townswoman, the scissor-handed boy is invited to live with her suburban family, setting off a journey of self-discovery and sculptural design. Based on the classic Tim Burton movie, Edward Scissorhands: Matthew Bourne’s Dance Version features appropriately haunting and affective music of Danny Elfman and Terry Davies. Filmed live in March 2024 at the Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff, this fish-out-of-water narrative is big-screen fun for the whole family. $12–16, 7pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net

Friday 9/27 music

Chickenhead Blues Band. Jump start your weekend with sensational “New Orleans boogie-woogie, upbeat, rhythm and blues” sounds. Free, 6pm. Glass House Winery, 5898 Free Union Rd., Free Union. glass housewinery.com

Dave Goodrich. This 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

Empty Bottles. Roanoke’s finest soul, funk, and rock ‘n’ roll cover band. Come groove to the songs that make you move. Classics and B-sides from the ’70s and ’80s. Free, 7pm. Pro Re Nata Brewpub & Music Hall, 6135 Rockfish Gap Tpk., Crozet. prnbrewery.com

Ian Gilliam and The Fire Kings. Rock ‘n’ roll, blues, rockabilly, and country tunes from this local group. Free, 9pm. Holly’s Diner, 1221 E. Market St.

John Bullard. Banjo virtuoso John Bullard is joined by Markus Compton on keyboard for an artful program that showcases the rich character of Baroque masters and the earthy pluck of the banjo. $10–12, 7:30pm. Piedmont Virginia Community College, V. Earl Dickinson Building, 501 College Dr. pvcc.edu

Josh Mayo and Alex Bragg. This group of great musicians provides wonderful sounds to enjoy with the sunset, including masterfully performed originals and covers. Free, 6pm. Högwaller Brewing, 1518 E. High St. hogwallerbrewing.com

Josh Mayo and The House Sauce. Good music and good BBQ. Free, 8pm. Ace Biscuit & Barbecue, 600 Concord Ave. Karaoke. See listing for Wednesday, September 25. Free, 9pm. Fiorano Restaurant and Bar, 5924 Seminole Trail, Ste. 101, Barboursville. fioranomediterranean.com

Mo Sarfen. Everything from the sounds of Motown to traditional pop, from Frank Sinatra to classical compositions by Chopin. Free, 6pm. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. starrhill.com

Robert Jospé Quartet. Sunset Soirée with live instrumental jazz and delicious food from Two Brothers Southwestern Grill. Free, 6pm. Chisholm Vineyards at Adventure Farm, 1135 Clan Chisholm Ln., Earlysville. chisholmvineyards.com

Slick Montgomery Band. Blues and bluegrass-inspired group from central Virginia. Free, 8pm. Ace Biscuit & Barbecue, 600 Concord Ave.

Stillhouse Sound. This high-energy, fast-favorite Batesville-based band plays fun groovebased tunes, new and old. Free, 7pm. Batesville Market, 6624 Plank Rd., Batesville. batesvillemarket.com

Stop Light Observations. Dynamic fivepiece group offering a unique blend of rock, pop, and indie infused with electronic beats and soulful vocals. $15–25, 8:30pm. The Southern Café and Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com

stage

An Iliad. A brilliant, spellbinding, modern retelling of Homer’s classic, a play about war and rage, that resonates all-too-vividly today. $28, 8pm. Live Arts, 123 E. Water St. livearts.org

Wolf Play UVA Drama is pleased to share a staged reading of this inventive play by Hansol Jung that tells the story of a struggle over an adopted child who identifies as “the wolf” and is portrayed by a puppet. $5, 7pm. Helms Theatre, 109 Culbreth Rd. drama.virginia.edu

CULTURE TRIED IT IN C'VILLE

Carter Mountain Orchard’s fall food offerings come with a sunset

It’s crazy that I worked at Monticello for seven years but never visited Carter Mountain Orchard until recently. I’ve had the apple cider donuts (worth the hype), but haven’t gone apple picking or to an event there. As the weather cools and the call of pumpkin-spice everything drifts to us on the autumn breeze, it seemed like a good time to check out the orchard. My original plan was to dig in at a Fall Food Truck event, but instead I caught one of the season’s last Thursday Evening Sunset Series shows, which also feature offerings from food trucks, plus live music.

Upon arrival, I remembered why I’d never gone to a big gathering at Carter Mountain: my intense dislike of large crowds. Don’t get me wrong, the vast majority of folks in attendance were having a lovely time. I’m an ambivert, meaning I’ve got both extroverted and introverted traits. As I’ve entered my midlife renaissance (read: crisis), I’ve realized more and more that I refuel with alone time and that crowds are not for me. Despite my social anxiety, I enjoyed a delicious meal along with a view that will only get more dazzling in the coming weeks as the fall colors grace the mountains yet again.—Kristie Smeltzer

Fall food trucks line up at Carter Mountain Orchard though mid-November. Check the website for details.

What

Sampling food truck fare at Carter Mountain Orchard.

Why

Because enjoying a delicious meal without having to do dishes is awesome.

How It Went

Great—it’s hard to go wrong with ooey-gooey melted cheese. The view: a bonus.

The drive into the orchard from the Route 53 entrance follows a winding road that requires an attentive driver. If you’re visiting for a boozy event, I recommend using a rideshare app or having a trusted designated driver in your party. The path in creates a sense of arrival, of leaving the world behind

as nature surrounds you. When I arrived, cars were waiting in a long line to get to the parking area.

Once parked, I noticed the entrance buzzing with activity. If you like that Fridays After Five feel, you likely love the Thursday Evening Sunset Series. The last one is on September 26, but the series resumes in the spring.

Weekend visits to Carter Mountain during the busy apple-picking season require a ticket for entry, but on weekdays, folks can enjoy the fall food trucks and views between 11am and 3pm without a ticket (looking at you, introverts). The orchard’s country store and bakery offer picked fruit, plus a range of snacking goodies.

At the food truck area, I beelined straight for Raclette on the Run. I’d heard great things about the vendor and I was hangry. Raclette

is a Swiss cheese usually served by heating it and scraping off the delicious melty bits to use in dishes. As I stood in line surrounded by jovial UVA students wearing sundresses and cowboy boots, I felt a little ashamed of my enthusiasm watching the cheese porn

Carter Mountain Orchard

as the truck’s servers scraped hot raclette off a half-wheel of cheese. I thoroughly enjoyed The Classic, made with Vermont cheddar on hearty white bread with bacon. All the food truck’s sandwiches come with crunchy, salty, delicious tater tots. Yum!

MARTYN KUYLE

CULTURE THIS WEEK

STRFKR with Holy Wave and Happy Sad Face

It’s probably unfair to reduce a band that’s been plugging away in various forms since 2007 to wimpy dance music for disinterested millennials. It’s also likely giving an unfair shake to a reasonably successful group if you suggest that people like it, or tolerate it en masse, because vocalist Josh Hodges and company put out inoffensive music that pushes forward with a mildly danceable rhythm. I also concede that it would be really cynical to say that STRFKR’s upbeat indie pop has only propelled it to the heights because there’s something just catchy enough in its sound that manages to fit the bill for advertisers and music supervisors working in films and TV, as evidenced by placements of the band’s hit “Rawnald Gregory Erickson the Second” and other songs in everything from Target and Juicy Couture ads to Showtime’s “Weeds.”

I would also completely understand if a fan got really bent out of shape in the event they were told that STRFKR is just an unscrupulously watered-down knockoff of Of Montreal, with much less creative exploration or lyrical originality— and minus an over-the-top glamorous live show to distract from STRFKR’s lukewarm offerings. A lover of the band would be justified in blowing a gasket if someone lobbed the idea that its occasional forays into more lo-fi sounding

words

diversions and synthy instrumental passages—as employed on its latest, Parallel Realms—are just pretentious smokescreens of assumed intellectual or philosophical depth.

The Jefferson Theater Wednesday 9/25

Yeah, all of the above may be true to some degree, but if the songs appeal to you, why turn your nose up at them. Don’t be so critical. Go to the Jefferson and see if STRFKR is really as well-meaning as it makes itself out to be. Worse case, you dance. Best case, you dance. —CM Gorey

Gasolina Party. A community for reggaetón and Latin music fans that are pushing the culture forward. Ages 18+. $20–25, 9pm. The Jefferson Theater, 110 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. jeffersontheater.com

stage

What the Constitution Means to Me Heidi Schreck’s multiple award-winning play dissects the document penned by our “founding fathers” over 200 years ago. $28, 8pm. Live Arts, 123 E. Water St. livearts.org

Wolf Play See listing for Friday, September 27. $5, 7pm. Helms Theatre, 109 Culbreth Rd. drama.virginia.edu

words

Author Event: Luisa A. Igloria. Luisa A. Igloria will read from her new poetry collection, Caulbearer. Free, 7pm. New Dominion Bookshop, 404 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. ndbookshop.com

classes

Learn to Knit. Join Emma as she teaches you the basics of knitting. No experience needed. Leave with a pair of knitting needles, the beginning of a scarf, and enough yarn to finish it. Ages 12+. $25, 10am. The Scrappy Elephant, 1745 Allied St. scrappy elephant.com

Science and Watercolor 101. In this exciting class, we will learn about many household items that can have an effect on watercolor. Ages 16+. $35, 2pm. The Scrappy Elephant, 1745 Allied St. scrappyelephant.com etc.

C’ville Brewery Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Friday, September 27. $18, all day. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. starrhill.com

Music Open Mic. Musicians of all ages are welcome. Two songs or ten minutes per performer, whichever comes first. Hosted by Theocles. Free, 5:30pm. The Southern Café and Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesouthern cville.com

Paulo Franco. Richmond-based singer-songwriter performing emotionally charged music. Free, 2pm. Glass House Winery, 5898 Free Union Rd., Free Union. glasshousewinery.com

Tara Mills. Inspired by the Blue Ridge Mountains and the rich musical traditions tied to them, Tara Mills describes her sound as, “original mountain Americana”—a blend of folk, bluegrass, and Americana. Free, 2:30pm. Albemarle CiderWorks, 2545 Rural Ridge Ln., North Garden. albemarleciderworks.com

The Pollocks. Acoustic trio jamming out some of your favorite tunes. Free, 2pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potterscraftcider.com

Victor Wooten & The Wooten Brothers. A high-energy, super-funky, artistic blend of styles including original songs and classics. $35–105, 8pm. The Jefferson Theater, 110 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. jefferson theater.com

classes

Washi Tape Buttons. Take a step into the world of washi tape art with washi tape pin buttons. Ages 16+. $15, 2pm. The Scrappy Elephant, 1745 Allied St. scrappy elephant.com etc.

9/27

Alli Dyer and Guion Pratt. Novelist Alli Dyer will read from her debut novel, Strange Folk, and musician Guion Pratt will perform an acoustic set of his music. Free, 7pm. New Dominion Bookshop, 404 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. ndbookshop.com etc.

C’ville Brewery Puzzle Hunt. This puzzle crawl takes you to the breweries on Preston Avenue. Crack codes, solve puzzles, and enjoy some of Charlottesville’s best beers along the way. $18, all day. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. starrhill.com

Trivia with Olivia. Get the weekend started. Prizes to be won and fun to be had. Free, 6–8pm. SuperFly Brewing Co., 943 Preston Ave. superflybrewing.com

Wine and Cider Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Thursday, September 26. $15, available noon–8pm. Please confirm Eastwood Winery and Potter’s Cider hours beforehand. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. puzzledbee.com

Saturday 9/28

music

Berto Sales. Come enjoy the sounds of Brazil, Spain, and Latin America with Berto Sales. His unique fingerpicking style and contagious energy will have you tapping your feet. Free, 11am. Tavern & Grocery, 333 W. Main St. tavernandgrocery.com

Bomar & Ritter. Contemporary folk/pop duo presenting a set of strong originals and cover tunes. Free, 2:30pm. Albemarle CiderWorks, 2545 Rural Ridge Ln., North Garden. albemarleciderworks.com

Brisk. Brisk takes you back in time to get your ’90s–2000s fix, paying tribute to the classics that defined grunge, alternative, emo, and poppunk while mixing in one-hit wonders. $10, 7pm. Pro Re Nata Brewpub & Music Hall, 6135 Rockfish Gap Tpk., Crozet. prnbrewery.com

Charlottesville Symphony. The Charlottesville Symphony opens its 50th season with works by Verdi, Russell, Shaw, and Beethoven Symphony No. 5. $10–53, 7:30pm. Old Cabell Hall. music.virginia.edu

Joslyn & The Sweet Compression. A hookfilled mix of funk and soul. $15–20, 8pm. The Southern Café and Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com

Midnight Buzz. An eclectic blend of acoustic and electric classic rock tunes. Free, 5pm. Glass House Winery, 5898 Free Union Rd., Free Union. glasshousewinery.com

South Canal Street. Seafood Saturday at DuCard Vineyards with Nomini Bay Oyster Ranch and music by South Canal Street. $10–15, noon. DuCard Vineyards, 40 Gibson Hollow Ln., Etlan. ducardvineyards.com

dance

’80s Dance Party. ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s tunes to get you busy on the dance floor. Free, 9pm. Fiorano Restaurant and Bar, 5924 Seminole Trail, Ste. 101, Barboursville. fioranomediterranean.com

Ballroom Dance. Beginners welcome. No partner required. Come for the class and stay for the dance. Pay at the door. Cash or checks only. $5–10, 7pm. The Center, 540 Belvedere Blvd. thecentercville.org

Manhattan Short Film Festival. A celebration of short films from around the world. 10 films are screened and the audience votes for their choice of Best Film and Best Actor. $12–15, 7:30pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net

Play! + Saturday Artist Studio. Designed for children with developmental differences and their families. Join other families for play and exploration in a supportive environment. Registration is required. Free, 10am. The Arc Studio, 1149 Rose Hill Dr. dottodotspeech.com

Storytime. Featuring readings from recent storybooks and the classics kids know and love. Rain or shine. All ages welcome. Free, 11am. New Dominion Bookshop, 404 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. newdominion bookshop.com

The Creative High Nine artists recovering from addiction use the creative process to awaken their true selves and pursue another chance at life in this documentary film. Free, 7pm. Light House Studio: Vinegar Hill Theatre, 220 W. Market St. lighthousestudio.org

Sunday 9/29 music

Charlottesville Symphony. See listing for Saturday, September 28. $10–53, 3:30pm. Martin Luther King Jr. Performing Arts Center, 1400 Melbourne Rd. charlottesville schools.org

Michael Johnson. Dinner as usual with some live music. Michael Johnson has been playing country, worship, rock, and a range of music for the last 20 years. Free, 1pm. Fiorano Restaurant and Bar, 5924 Seminole Trail, Ste. 101, Barboursville. fiorano mediterranean.com

Mo & Mary Mac. “Wine Down” the weekend by soaking up the views and taking in the tunes of local musicians Mo & Mary Mac. Free, 2pm. DuCard Vineyards, 40 Gibson Hollow Ln., Etlan. ducardvineyards.com

Buster Keaton Shorts. September 29 is National Silent Movie Day. Screening One Week, Sherlock Jr., and Steamboat Bill, Jr. $12–15, 4pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. the paramount.net

C’ville Brewery Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Friday, September 27. $18, all day. 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. Free, 2pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwoodfarmandwinery.com

Role Playing Game Hangout. See listing for Thursday, September 26. Free, 3pm. The End Games, 390 Hillsdale Dr. theend games.co

Wine and Cider Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Thursday, September 26. $15, available noon–8pm. Please confirm Eastwood Winery and Potter’s Cider hours beforehand. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwoodfarmandwinery.com

Monday 9/30 music

Betty Jo’s Boogie Band. Live boogie band with a horn section and all. Free, 7:30pm. The Whiskey Jar, 227 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thewhiskeyjarcville.com

DG3. Gin and jazz series welcomes trio playing modern takes on classics and standards. Free, 5:30pm. Oakhurst Inn, 100 Oakhurst Cir. oakhurstinn.com

dance

Salsa Dance Night. DJ Rafa will be spinning the latest in salsa and Latin-inspired dance cuts in the dance floor area of the bar. Come feel the heat and move. Free, 9pm. Fiorano Restaurant and Bar, 5924 Seminole Trail, Ste. 101, Barboursville. fioranomediterranean.com

etc.

Astronomy on Tap. Join UVA Astronomers for free talks, trivia, and prizes aimed at a general audience. Free, 7pm. Firefly, 1304 E. Market St. fireflycville.com

Comedy Open Mic. Showcase your talent, try out new material, and take in the best local comedy that C’ville has to offer. Hosted by Chris Alan. Free, 8pm. The Southern Café and Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesouthern cville.com

C’ville Brewery Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Friday, September 27. $18, all day. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. starrhill.com

Geeks Who Drink Trivia. Seven rounds of audio, visual, and live trivia for teams of up to six with prizes for answering bonus questions and gift cards for top teams. Hosted by Audrey. Free, 6:30pm. Decipher Brewing Co.,1740 Broadway St.

Trivia on Tap. Five rounds of themed trivia for teams of up to six competitors. Hosted by Olivia. Reservations recommended. Free, 7pm. Three Notch’d Craft Kitchen & Brewery - Charlottesville, 520 Second St. SE. three notchdbrewing.com

Tuesday 10/1

music

Birdtalker. Birdtalker explore how to navigate the unknown, embrace uncertainty, and learn to let go. $15–20, 8pm. The Southern Café and Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesouthern cville.com

Karaoke. Sign up and sing your favorite songs. Hosted by Thunder Music. Free, 9pm. Holly’s Diner, 1221 E. Market St. Ragged Mountain String Band. Live bluegrass. Free, 7:30pm. The Whiskey Jar, 227 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thewhiskey jarcville.com

Viano Quartet. Tuesday Evening Concert Series presents Viano Quartet with a program of Beethoven, Price, and Piazzolla. $5–45, 7:30pm. Old Cabell Hall Auditorium. virginia.edu

Vincent Zorn. Vincent Zorn performs solo wild flamenco rumba. Must say “olé!” Free, 7pm. The Bebedero, 225 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thebebedero.com classes

Paint + Sip: Rainy Fall Drive. Learn a variety of techniques and skills to render an autumn scene. $45, 6pm. Starr Hill Downtown, 946 Grady Ave. Ste. 101. blueridgebrushes.com etc.

Board Game Night. Everyone and anyone is welcome. Come in to play your favorite table top games. Use our board game library and/or bring your own. Free, 5pm–8pm. The End Games, 390 Hillsdale Dr. theendgames.co

DisruptHR. Over the course of 90 minutes you’ll be entertained, inspired, and enlightened through 12 great ideas, presented each in the unique 5-minute Ignite format. Free, 5pm. Live Arts, 123 E. Water St. livearts.org Geeks Who Drink Trivia. Good trivia, good times. Free, 7pm. Firefly, 1304 E. Market St. fireflycville.com

Music Bingo. SuperFly Music Bingo is back and better than ever. Unique playlists and prizes to be won. Free, 7pm. SuperFly Brewing Co., 943 Preston Ave. superfly brewing.com

Poker Night. Test your luck and skill at our hold ’em poker night. Free, 7pm. Fiorano Restaurant and Bar, 5924 Seminole Trail, Ste. 101, Barboursville. fioranomediterranean.com

Role Playing Game Hangout. See listing for Thursday, September 26. Free, 3pm. The End Games, 390 Hillsdale Dr. theend games.co

Run Club. Charlottesville Run Club meets every Tuesday for a leisurely run before heading back to the taproom to hang out and enjoy beer specials. Free, 6pm. Starr Hill Downtown, 946 Grady Ave. Suite 101. starrhill.com

CULTURE THE WORKS

Ivory’s power

Jefferson School spotlights sculptor who carved out a remarkable legacy

By Sarah Sargent

The story of sculptor Alice Ivory is a story of triumph against adversity, and the power of the creative drive. It is also an American tragedy of sorts, highlighting the dearth of opportunities afforded people outside the white, predominantly male, status quo. In “Beyond Boundaries: The Sculpture of Alice Wesley Ivory,” the Jefferson School African American Heritage Center highlights the work and life story of the under-celebrated artist.

Ivory was born in Albemarle County in 1931. From the start, she faced challenges as a poor, Black female in segregated Virginia. But Ivory had a few things going for her. Her parents, Warner Wesley and Gladys Frye Wesley, owned their own farm in White Hall, and though neither one had attended school, they were literate.

As a child, Ivory attended White Hall Colored School, a two-mile walk each day. She completed her secondary education at Albemarle Training School on Hydraulic Road—at the time, it was the only school in the surrounding five-county area to offer Black kids an education beyond the seventh grade. Ivory went on to Virginia State College (now University) in Petersburg, where she earned a degree in art education. She taught at Jackson P. Burley High School for seven years before applying to graduate school at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. (The University of Virginia was out of the question, as it was still segregated.)

Accepted provisionally at first because her undergraduate degree was from a Southern Black institution, Ivory satisfied UWM’s requirements, gained full admission, and received her M.S. in art education in 1962. It was at UWM that she discovered her lifelong passion for welding, a highly unusual choice for a woman at the time. Her interest was not lost on Fred Ivory, who presented his bride with an oxo-acetylene torch when they married. She would use that equipment for the rest of her life. In 1970, she became the first Black teacher hired by the Blue Ridge School, and taught there until retiring in 1990.

Ivory received some artistic acclaim during her lifetime, garnering certificates of distinction from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts for her sculptures “Crow,” “Wild Boar,” and “Eagle”—the latter created in response to JFK’s assassination. She was also the subject of a one-woman show at the VMFA, which also subsequently commissioned “Kangaroo” for its 1980 “Fantasies,” a touchable exhibition designed for people

with visual impairments. Ivory’s work has been exhibited at McGuffey Art Center, and a painted portrait of Ivory by Frances Brand was part of the “Firsts” exhibition. But these acknowledgments are not commensurate with her talent.

The sensitivity, compassion, and humor with which Ivory’s animals and insects are rendered reflect her rural upbringing. Michael R. Taylor, artistic director and chief curator at the VMFA has an interesting take on her work.

“In a way, Alice Ivory’s marvelous welded metal sculptures are all self-portraits,” says Taylor. “She’s in them. She is the fierce junkyard dog, she is the beautiful crow, and she‘s the kangaroo protecting her young. I think that’s all of her rolled into one.”

Ivory used both naturalism and caricature to capture her subjects. Her chickens possess a hand-wrought honesty and humor reminiscent of some of Alexander Calder’s animals. Even though they are abstracted versions, Ivory nails the posture, stance, and movement—in essence, their chickenness.

Generally, she didn’t bother with surface details, placing emphasis on form and gesture. In a very modern way, Ivory acknowledged the materiality of the work, with unadorned metal and exposed welding seams and brazing marks. Other animals in this vein are the attenuated Alberto Giacometti-like “Heron” and the menacing, yet funny, piranha whose teeth are made from nails.

Ivory’s “Bull’ is a study of compressed energy. The bull seems to be gathering itself in

preparation for charging. To emphasize the animal’s power, she exaggerates the hooves, attaches the plates of metal so the seams accentuate the animal’s musculature and adds a tail that seems charged with electricity. Her magnificent, oversized “Crow” gets the bird’s attitude exactly right, with a cocked head that conveys curiosity and intelligence.

The majority of Ivory’s sculptures were made (using scrap metal her husband collected for her) between 1960 and 1970, while she was taking a break from teaching to care for her two young children. It wasn’t easy, as Ivory herself wrote: “…other sculptures have been made at home when I had managed to get the baby quiet, the dishes washed, the laundry hung out to dry and another of hundreds of huge meals prepared.”

In spite of these domestic burdens, she produced, by her estimation, 100 sculptures. By way of comparison, American sculptor David Smith, who died 10 years younger than Ivory, produced well over 500 sculptures. Ivory made the best of it, producing extraordinarily sympathetic work. She unquestionably had the talent to scale the heights of the art world, yet she lived out her days in relative obscurity, raising children, keeping house, and supporting herself as an art teacher. When she died in 1991, Ivory left behind a body of superlative work that speaks not only to what she achieved but also to how she triumphed in a world of exclusion. Looking at it, one can’t help but feel that she, and (to a far lesser degree) we, were cheated out of a more fully realized career.

“In a way, Alice Ivory’s marvelous welded metal sculptures are all selfportraits. She’s in them. She is the fierce junkyard dog, she is the beautiful crow, and she‘s the kangaroo protecting her young. I think that’s all of her rolled into one.” MICHAEL R. TAYLOR

“Beyond Boundaries: The Sculpture of Alice Wesley Ivory” is on view at the Jefferson School African American Heritage Center through December 14.

Are you a sudden caregiver?

Your parents are in their 80s and still living in the house where you grew up. Your mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s a year ago, and your dad has been managing, but you’re starting to worry...

You notice your 82-year old mother-in-law is having difficulties living alone, but your suppose and his siblings aren’t talking about it…

A neighbor in her late 70s tells you they are losing their housing and because they are a fixed income they don’t know what to do. You notice she’s been anxious, and not eating right...

Your father has been living alone in South Carolina for years and seems to be doing okay, but you are starting to think he needs to be closer to you in Virginia.

You work full-time, have two young children, and while your mom has been a help since they were born she’s the one needing help now...

Your Aunt has dementia and you’re struggling to be patient and supportive. But you’re not sure you can handle what’s happening and don’t know where to turn…

You and your spouse sold your house and moved into a small cottage in a senior living facility. Together, you’ve made good decisions to maintain your independence, as your children live far away and have their own lives, but your spouse is in cognitive decline and you’re wondering how you’re going to plan for the future…

Do any of these scenarios sound familiar? If so, there’s a good chance you’re about to become a caregiver, you may already be one, or caregiving is about to become a lot more complicated.

When faced with these kinds of situations, many people keep the reality of what’s happening at arm’s length for as long as they can. Indeed, they may feel as though these situations have snuck up on them without warning. After all, Mom may have always been the one who took care of things, so imagining yourself taking care of her may be difficult even to imagine. Maybe you already know you’re not cut out to be a caregiver. Which of your sib-

lings will step up? What roles will you all have? Maybe you were hoping things would be all right for a few more years...until your career was more on track, until the kids were a little older, until... There’s no sugarcoating it. Caregiving situations can arrive in unexpected and inconvenient ways. And for many people, there’s a period of adjustment to this new reality.

“My caregiver mantra is to remember: the only control you have is over the changes you choose to make,” writes author and licensed clinical social worker Nancy L. Kriseman, who wrote a book on mindful caregiving.

Indeed, in many ways, caregiving is about change, about roles being reversed or rearranged, about time marching relentlessly forward, and while change can be difficult it also creates space for something new to arrive...if we are open to it.

Most importantly, you are not alone. JABA provides caregiver support services that can connect you with a variety of resources and help you come up with a plan.

JABA also has specialized care centers in Charlottesville and Louisa for people who need extra help during the day. Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital has a dedicated caregiver center, the UVA Memory and Aging Care Clinic and the Alzheimer’s Association Central and Western Virginia offer invaluable care and resources, and the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services provides a wide range of resources for caregivers in Virginia.

While your caregiving journey might have come a little earlier than you thought it would, and everything can feel a little confusing and overwhelming, now’s the time to reach out for help and guidance. And now’s the time to find your voice.

“As your care recipient’s advocate, be involved, don’t accept the status quo, and don’t be afraid to voice your concerns,” writes Kriseman. David McNair handles communications, media relations, and social media efforts for JABA.

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PUZZLES

SUDOKU

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

#1

Rack your brain

BY MATT JONES

ACROSS

1. President Franklin

7. Immediately

11. Leatherworker’s poker

14. Of a part of the heart

15. LBJ son-in-law Charles

16. By way of

17. *Big, round housecats (answers to starred clues are new words added to Collins Official, for international non-US play as of 1/1/25)

18. *Most materialistic and high-class (using four different vowels)

20. In ___ (basically)

21. Golf stroke

22. Algonquian-speaking Canadian group

23. Four-hour movies, maybe

25. Feathered scarf

26. *Flattens out like a hot resting dog (just a fun word to say)

29. *Whatchamacallit (previously in the list, but with a Y)

33. Infants’ sicknesses

34. Four-handed piano song

35. Psychologist/writer/PBS host LeShan

36. Little help

37. Mario’s brother

39. Video games playable by large groups simultaneously

40. Happy tail movement

41. Bit of a cloud

42. American tennis star Stephens

44. *”Isn’t that true?” (not a type of mineral)

46. *Became a huge fan of (all tenses are now fair game)

47. “Oh yeah? ___ who?”

48. “The ___ Kid” (1950s Western)

49. Liquidation event

51. Oktoberfest ___ (website with an “O’Fest Essentials” category)

53. Nevada neighbor

56. *Cranial attack in a fight (surprisingly, new to the list as one word)

58. *Subject-changing segue word (either spelling is new)

60. Java brewer

61. Multigenerational baseball surname

62. Sweetsop relatives

63. “Yup,” without the out-loud part

64. Forrest played by Tom Hanks

65. Malaria-carrying fly

DOWN

1. Lobby gp.

2. Am ___ only one?”

3. Greek god of love

4. Wash, as containers for leftovers

5. Sweet spheroid on a stick

6. Golfer Ernie

7. Photographer Diane

8. Chimney remnants

9. Be adjacent to 10. Simple sandwich, for short 11. Statistician’s unnamed guy

12. Sagacious

13. “The ___ Show with Stephen Colbert”

19. Desktop image

21. Computer lab inventory

24. “This party rocks!”

25. Commit to the ___

26. Uh, it’s a vowel sound

27. King of Troy in “The Iliad”

28. Place for “iced tea”?

29. Harbor hauler

30. Bank jobs

31. “What Have ___ to Deserve This?” (Pet Shop Boys song)

32. Became less difficult

34. Tzatziki, for example

38. Fair ___ laws

39. Any one species constituting a genus

41. “The ___” (Diana Ross musical)

43. Gaps

45. Oregon college near Portland

46. Maya Harris, to Kamala Harris

48. Jokester

49. Avoid

50. Bubbly British chocolate bar

51. “Life & Beth” streamer

52. Molecular component

54. At the drop of ___

55. “___ the weather up there?”

57. Checkout purchase (if you forgot to bring one)

58. Fitting

59. Sugar suffix

THE DEVIL’S IN THE DETAILS...

Send us the spookiest, scariest, nightmare-inducingest two sentences (no more, no less!) you can conjure up. Details and entry form at the QR code below.

The winner will receive: a pair of tickets to an upcoming Live Arts show, a pair of guest passes to Common House, a date-night package from Alamo Drafthouse (two movie tickets, a bottomless popcorn, and a $10 food and beverage voucher), and a $25 gift card to a local restaurant.

PLUS The top 10 stories will be printed in the October 30 issue of C-VILLE Weekly and performed by Live Arts actors on social media. Enter if you dare!

By Rob Brezsny

Scorpio

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21): I knew a Scorpio performance artist who did a splashy public show about private matters. She stationed herself on the rooftop of an apartment building and for 12 hours loudly described everything she felt guilty about. (She was an ex-Catholic who had been raised to regard some normal behavior as sinful.) If you, dear Scorpio, have ever felt an urge to engage in a purge of remorse, now would be an excellent time. I suggest an alternate approach, though. Spend a half hour writing your regrets on paper, then burn the paper in the kitchen sink as you chant something like the following: “With love and compassion for myself, I apologize for my shortcomings and frailties. I declare myself free of shame and guilt. I forgive myself forever.”

Sagittarius

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Be hearty, potent, and dynamic, Sagittarius. Don’t worry about decorum and propriety. Be in quest of lively twists that excite the adventurer in you. Avoid anyone who seems to like you best when you are anxious or tightly controlled. Don’t proceed as if you have nothing to lose; instead, act as if you have everything to win. Finally, my dear, ask life to bring you a steady stream of marvels that make you overjoyed to be alive. If you’re feeling extra bold (and I believe you will), request the delivery of a miracle or two.

Capricorn

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Nineteenth-century Capricorn author Anne Brontë wrote The Tenant of Wildfell Hall, which many critics regard as the first feminist novel. It challenged contemporary social customs. The main character, Helen, leaves her husband because he’s a bad influence on their son. She goes into hiding, becoming a single mother who supports her family by creating art. Unfortunately, after the author’s death at a young age, her older sister Charlotte suppressed the publication of The Tenant of Wildfell Hall. It’s not well-known today. I bring this to your attention, Capricorn, so as to inspire you to action. I believe the coming months will be a favorable time to get the attention and recognition you’ve been denied but thoroughly deserve. Start now! Liberate, express, and disseminate whatever has been suppressed.

FREE WILL ASTROLOGY

Libra

(Sept. 22-Oct. 22): On those infrequent occasions when I buy a new gadget, I never read the instructions. I drop the booklet in the recycling bin immediately, despite the fact that I may not know all the fine points of using my new vacuum cleaner, air purifier, or hairdryer. Research reveals that I am typical. Ninety-two percent of all instructions get thrown away. I don’t recommend this approach to you in the coming weeks, however, whether you’re dealing with gadgets or more intangible things. You really should call on guidance to help you navigate your way through introductory phases and new experiences.

Aquarius

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): What is the most important question you want to find an answer for during the next year? The coming weeks will be an excellent time to formulate that inquiry clearly and concisely. I urge you to write it out in longhand and place it in a prominent place in your home. Ponder it lightly and lovingly for two minutes every morning upon awakening and each night before sleep. (Key descriptors: “lightly and lovingly.”) As new insights float into your awareness, jot them down. One further suggestion: Create or acquire a symbolic representation of the primal question.

Pisces

(Feb. 19-March 20): Scientific research suggests that some foods are more addictive than cocaine. They include pizza, chocolate, potato chips, and ice cream. The good news is that they are not as problematic for longterm health as cocaine. The bad news is that they are not exactly healthy. (The sugar in chocolate neutralizes its modest health benefits.) With these facts in mind, Pisces, I invite you to re-order your priorities about addictive things. Now is a favorable time to figure out what substances and activities might be tonifying, invigorating addictions— and then retrain yourself to focus your addictive energy on them. Maybe you could encourage an addiction to juices that blend spinach, cucumber, kale, celery, and apple. Perhaps you could cultivate an addiction to doing a pleasurable form of exercise or reading books that thrill your imagination.

Aries

(March 21-April 19): During some Wiccan rituals, participants are asked, “What binds you? And what will you do to free yourself from what binds you?” I recommend this exercise to you right now, Aries. Here’s a

third question: Will you replace your shackles with a weaving that inspires and empowers you? In other words, will you shed what binds you and, in its stead, create a bond that links you to an influence you treasure?

Taurus

(April 20-May 20): If I had to name the zodiac sign that other signs are most likely to underestimate, I would say Taurus. Why? Well, many of you Bulls are rather modest and humble. You prefer to let your practical actions speak louder than fine words. Your well-grounded strength is diligent and poised, not flashy. People may misread your resilience and dependability as signs of passivity. But here’s good news, dear Taurus: In the coming weeks, you will be less likely to be undervalued and overlooked. Even those who have been ignorant of your appeal may tune in to the fullness of your tender power and earthy wisdom.

Gemini

(May 21-June 20): In the coming days, I invite you to work on writing an essay called “People and Things I Never Knew I Liked and Loved Until Now.” To get the project started, visit places that have previously been off your radar. Wander around in uncharted territory, inviting life to surprise you. Call on every trick you know to stimulate your imagination and break out of habitual ruts of thinking. A key practice will be to experiment and improvise as you open your heart and your eyes wide. Here’s my prophecy: In the frontiers, you will encounter unruly delights that inspire you to grow wiser.

Cancer

(June 21-July 22): Now is an excellent time to search for new teachers, mentors, and role models. Please cooperate with life’s intention to connect you with people and animals who can inspire your journey for the months and

years ahead. A good way to prepare yourself for this onslaught of grace is to contemplate the history of your educational experiences. Who are the heroes, helpers, and villains who have taught you crucial lessons? Another strategy to get ready is to think about what’s most vital for you to learn right now. What are the gaps in your understanding that need to be filled?

Leo

(July 23-Aug. 22): The English language has more synonyms than any other language. That’s in part because it’s like a magpie. It steals words from many tongues, including German, French, Old Norse, Latin, and Greek, as well as from Algonquin, Chinese, Hindi, Basque, and Tagalog. Japanese may be the next most magpie-like language. It borrows from English, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, French, and German. In accordance with astrological possibilities, I invite you to adopt the spirit of the English and Japanese languages in the coming weeks. Freely borrow and steal influences. Be a collector of sundry inspirations, a scavenger of fun ideas, a gatherer of rich cultural diversity.

Virgo

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Here are my bold decrees: You are entitled to extra bonuses and special privileges in the coming weeks. The biggest piece of every cake and pie should go to you, as should the freshest wonders, the most provocative revelations, and the wildest breakthroughs. I invite you to give and take extravagant amounts of everything you regard as sweet, rich, and nourishing. I hope you will begin cultivating a skill you are destined to master. I trust you will receive clear and direct answers to at least two nagging questions.

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

LEGALS

VIRGINIA:

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR ALBEMARLE COUNTY

STEVEN L. FIELDS, Plaintiffs v. LESLIE FIELDS, et al.

Case No.: CL24-1256-00 Defendants

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of the above-styled suit involves the heirs of Ollie Brown Kearney and Henry M. Fields and their interest in a parcel of property known as Tax Map/Parcel 0620000-00-083A0 in Albemarle County, Virginia. The legal description of this property is ALL THAT certain tract or parcel of land situated in Albemarle County, Virginia, on State Secondary Route 769, containing 3.3 acres, more or less, designated as Lot No. 2 on plat made by Paul M. Saunders, dated January, 1965, and filed in the Clerk’s Office of the Circuit Court of the County of Albemarle, Virginia on July 9, 1968 in Deed Book 445, page 417.

An affidavit having been filed that due diligence has been used by the Plaintiff to ascertain the identity and address of all possible defendants, possibly without success; that due diligence has been used without effect to ascertain the location of all known defendants.

Pursuant to Virginia Code Sections 8.01-316(A)(1)(b); 8.0l-316(A)(2); and 8.01-3 16(A)(3), it is hereby ORDERED that all interested parties appear by October 9, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. to do what is necessary to protect his interest.

ENTER: Cheryl V. Higgins DATE: 8.23.24

I ASK FOR THIS:

Lisa S. Brook, Virgina Bar No. #35661

Tucker Griffin Barnes

307 West Rio Road Charlottesville, Virginia 22901 (434) 284-5037

lbrook@tgblaw.com

Counsel for Plaintiff

ESTATE OF MARY KAREN GLEASON

NOTICE OF TAKING OF DEBTS AND DEMANDS

At the request of the Executor, I appoint Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at 10:30 a.m., as the time and my office at 420 Park Street, Charlottesville, Virginia, as the place for receiving proof of debts and demands against the decedent or her estate. Dated this 17th day of September, 2024.

Edward H Bain, Jr.

Assistant Commissioner of Accounts Circuit Court for Albemarle County, VA

THE HOTSEAT

First chair

In 1948 Martin B. Hiden formed the Tuesday Evening Concert Group, with aid from Bard Hume of The Washington Post and Richard Bales of the National Gallery of Art. After establishing a connection with the National Music League— which included affiliation with six concert organizations in the DMV region—Hiden’s group disengaged from the affiliation, reforming as The Tuesday Evening Concert Series, and established itself as an independent, nonprofit organization in 1951. The Series presents seven concerts a year featuring internationally renowned classical chamber musicians at Old Cabell Hall at the University of Virginia. As it kicks off its 2024-25 season on October 1, we put Tuesday Evening Concert Series Executive Director David Baldwin in the HotSeat.

Name: David Baldwin

Age: 53

Pronouns: He/him

Hometown: New York, New York

Job(s): Executive director of Tuesday Evening Concert Series

What’s something about your job that people would be surprised to learn? The amount of details involved in producing a single concert. What is music to you? Ultimate form of expression.

First concert you attended? Murray Perahia at Carnegie Hall. Last concert you attended? Faure’s Requiem

Why is supporting music education important? In addition to improving overall academics, music nurtures creativity and enhances emotional development.

How does classical music impact contemporary audiences? Classical music is a connection to our collective past that manages to communicate to everyone individually.

How does classical music shape contemporary music? Classical music is the antecedent and foundation for much of the Western music we hear today. It differs significantly from the sounds you are likely to hear in non-Western cultures such as Asia or the Middle East.

What are you listening to right now? Beethoven’s Razumovsky Quartets

Favorite performance venue: Vienna’s Musikverein

Favorite musician/composer: Bach (today … )

Favorite arrangement/ composition: Brahms Piano Concerto No. 2

Go-to karaoke song: I’m a terrible singer.

Best advice you ever got: We are not what we know but what we are willing to learn.

Best part of living here: The people

Worst part of living here: Small airport

Favorite Charlottesville restaurant: C&O

Favorite Charlottesville venue: Old Cabell Hall

Favorite Charlottesville landmark/attraction: Skyline Drive

Bodo’s order: Everything bagel with cream cheese.

Describe a perfect day: Sailing on the ocean.

If you could be reincarnated as a person or thing, what would you be? A dolphin

Most embarrassing moment: Singing karaoke

Do you have any pets? Goldfish

Favorite movie and/or show: The Dresser

Favorite book: The Magic Mountain by Thomas Mann

What’s your comfort food/ meal? Pizza

Subject that causes you to rant: Interstate 95

Best journey you ever went on: Hiking in the Swiss/ French Alps.

Next journey: Berlin/Dresden/Leipzig

Hottest take/most unpopular opinion: We are far less divided than political leaders would have us believe.

What have you forgotten today? Lunch

Software Engineer III

Bach. in CS, CE, or related + 3 yr. of exp. in SW tech. used to support ALMA operations, including proficiency in C++, Java, Python, Git, Jenkins, Grafana, Kibana/ELK, Liux administration, TCP/IP, virtual networks, Ansible, Docker, and Docker cluster orchestration tools, comprehensive understanding of ALMA operations, encompassing both the technical aspects and the scientific operations perspective to design, develop, modify & implement SW apps. National Radio Astronomy Observatory. Charlottesville, VA. F/T. Apply at http://jobs.jobvite.com/nrao/jobs Ref#5010. No calls/recruiters. No visa sponsorship.