C-VILLE Weekly | November 20 - 26, 2024 by C-VILLE Weekly

City Council discusses budget, but ARP funds still unallocated PAGE 10 Comedian David Cross talks career, comedy, and his new pod PAGE 29

READ LOCAL. WEAR LOCAL.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

CULTURE 27

29 Stages: David Cross on stand-up and podcasts 31 Extra: Guitarist Bill Frisell plays two shows at The Souther n.

Sudoku

Crossword

Free Will Astrology

John Gibson in The HotSeat

Real Estate Weekly: Judge opens door to more evidence in zoning case.

Correction In last week’s cover story (“Major Scale”), we misspelled Charlottesville Symphony Music Director Benjamin Rous’ last name.

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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

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

CM Turner arts@c-ville.com

COPY EDITOR

Susan Sorensen

NEWS INTERN

Merrill Hart

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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Billy Dempsey circulation@c-ville.com

C-VILLE HOLDINGS, LLC

Bill Chapman, Blair Kelly

Charlottesville’s News & Arts Weekly CIRCULATION: 20,000 WEEKLY C-VILLE is published Wednesdays. 20,000 free copies are distributed all over Charlottesville, Albemarle, and the surrounding counties. One copy per person. Additional copies may be purchased for $1.99 per copy.

THE HISTORY AND CONTEXT OF

A Conversation with Dennis Ross and Ghaith al-Omari ARTS & SCIENCES SERIES ON ENABLING DIFFICULT CONVERSATIONS

GHAITH AL-OMARI

CO-SPONSORED

Ambassador Dennis Ross, William Davidson Distinguished Fellow at the Washington Institute, teaches at Georgetown University’s Center for Jewish Civilization. He led U.S. peace efforts in the Middle East under Presidents Bush and Clinton, helping broker key agreements, including the 1995 Interim Agreement and 1994 Israel-Jordan peace treaty.

Ghaith al-Omari is the Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert Foundation Senior Fellow at the Washington Institute, focusing on the U.S.-Israel strategic relationship. Formerly executive director of the American Task Force on Palestine, he advised the negotiating team during the 1999–2001 permanent-status talks and held various roles in the Palestinian Authority. TUESDAY, DEC

Hello, Charlottesville. Thanks for reading C-VILLE Weekly.

I didn’t know hardly anything about food or cooking until I started working for C-VILLE. I grew up on Kraft mac and cheese and chicken tetrazzini, and the only thing I remember my dad cooking is pasta with spicy sausage and canned tomatoes. Bless my mother’s heart, the fanciest thing she made was what she called the “million dollar sandwich,” a loaf of sourdough smeared with pesto and piled high with various meats, cheeses, and sliced tomato. It cost a small fortune to put together, so we only had it when we were hosting a party.

11.20.24

But when I got to C-VILLE, I started noticing that all of the people I admired were very attentive to what they were eating, both in terms of cooking and consuming. In a town like ours, it doesn’t take long to get sucked into foodie culture, and soon I was perfecting my chopping technique, swirling pinot in my glass, and registering opinions on which restaurant had the best [fill in the blank].

If you’re still discovering your place in the culinary universe, this week’s cover story (p.21) is meant to help. A look at local lessons in food, it covers everything from coffee to dessert. And if you’re not up to cooking, read about an area duo who hosts Downtown Mall food tours that end with a quintessential Charlottesville meal. You know what they say, those who can’t do, eat.

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12-06 | LA LOM WITH THE NATIONAL RESERVE 12-07 | WILLIE WATSON WITH VIV & RILEY

12-12 | FRONT PORCH STUDENT BAND NIGHT 12-13 | THE WILSON SPRINGS HOTEL WITH HOLLER CHOIR

12-14 | ANDREW MARLIN STRINGBAND 12-15 | SONGWRITER SHOWCASE HOSTED BY THEOCLES HERRIN

12-19 | DJ WILLIAMS/ ERIN & THE WILDFIRE

12-20 | HASH WITH POCKET CHANGE

12-21 | MAYDAY WITH PAXTON HENDERSON AND THE MISFIT TOYS

12-27 | LIVE AT THE FILLMORE ‘THE WORLD’S GREATEST ALLMAN BROTHERS TRIBUTE BAND’

01-17 | EMO NIGHT KARAOKE

01-21 | CHUCK PROPHET & HIS CUMBIA SHOES

01-22 | TALL HEIGHTSSOFTLY SOFTLY TOUR

02-08 | CARSIE BLANTON

02-28 | CHATHAM RABBITS

03-01 | VANSIRE

03-08 | TIM O’BRIEN WITH JAN FABRICUS

03-11 | RON POPE

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“The President-elect is naming the political equivalent of the Mob to run and dismantle the government.”

—State Sen. Creigh Deeds, in a post to X/Twitter on November 15

NEWS IN BRIEF

Lifeguard shortage

As winter approaches, Charlottesville is already looking ahead to next summer when families will flock to the Onesty Family Aquatic Center and Booker T. Washington Park pool. The city will consider hiring an outside firm to manage these locations, citing the ongoing lifeguard shortage as an obstacle to independently staffing its pools.

Rake it in

Around 600 people volunteered for Habitat for Humanity’s 11th annual rake-a-thon November 16 to raise funds for local affordable housing. Many University of Virginia students offered helping hands, including those from HUVA, the school’s Habitat Club. “UVA has such a large population in the City of Charlottesville. I think it’s important that students are concentrating their efforts to the entire city as a whole and not just the UVA campus,” said volunteer Achille Guest in an interview with CBS 19.

Ctrl + Alt + Heal

A recent study by UVA Health physicians found that Chat GPT outperformed a group of 50 doctors in accurately diagnosing patients. Doctors working with traditional tools versus with A.I. assistance reported similar results, but Chat GPT alone surpassed both groups. Rather than replacing physicians with A.I., a November 13 UVA Health article about the study suggested the findings show the need for more training on optimal use of the technology.

Making amendments

PAGE 11

No shrinking Violet

Despite a report of its impending closure, Violet Crown isn’t going anywhere, according to a statement published on the movie theater’s social media accounts.

“While we are aware of the potential sale of the property, it is our understanding that this sale has not yet closed and no decision is final,” shared Violet Crown Charlottesville in a November 13 Facebook post. “As far as we are concerned, we have years left on our lease term and fully intend to operate through all of them and beyond, if at all possible.”

Rumors circulated over the impending closure of Violet Crown when The Daily Progress published an article earlier the

Not so fast

same day. According to the Progress, the owners of the Downtown Mall property where the theater is located are in the process of selling.

In a November 14 press release, Violet Crown lambasted the DP article, calling it “inaccurate” and “misinformation.” The theater also shared that the Progress allegedly denied a request for correction, citing that “every business eventually closes.”

Although it’s uncertain exactly when a sale could occur, the city’s Board of Architectural Review will hear from Jeffrey Levien November 19 regarding a “pre application conference” for the property, according to the meeting agenda. Levien has proposed

A Palmyra woman has been arrested in connection with a November 12 car chase from Lake Monticello into Albemarle County. The defendant, Linda Jean Eckert, faces additional charges in Fluvanna and Albemarle in connection with the incident.

According to a release from the Fluvanna County Sheriff’s Office, the chase started when Eckert was seen allegedly violating a protective order and trespassing near a Lake Monticello residence, then fled the scene, disregarding an officer’s order to stop. Officers reported she continued to flee law enforcement and was driving recklessly.

building an 18-story apartment complex at the location, which would increase housing supply while towering above other downtown buildings. His previous projects include Six Hundred West Main and a forthcoming hotel at 218 W. Market St., a property he sold in mid-September but will stay involved in as a partner.

Violet Crown has been operating on Charlottesville’s historic Downtown Mall since 2015. The theater made news last fall when Austin, Texas-based Elevate Entertainment Group bought the location. Since acquiring Violet Crown, EEG has invested in improvements to the theater’s seating and dining areas.

Eckert is also suspected in a hit-and-run incident that occurred during the pursuit on Union Mills Road. She was arrested after being stopped by police on Route 29, which briefly closed its northbound lanes due to the chase.

Fluvanna authorities are continuing to investigate the incident according to a November 13 release. Eckert was charged with violating a protective order, trespassing, disregarding a law enforcement signal to stop, and reckless driving in Fluvanna; and obstruction of justice, eluding, and hit-and-run in Albemarle. She is currently in custody.

NOVEMBER 24th 3:30PM

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Costs of business

Charlottesville kicks off annual budget work, but still needs to allocate ARP funds

t’s budget time again in Charlottesville, and at the November 18 City Council meeting, City Manager Sam Sanders gave council members his first

Sanders highlighted a number of upcoming meetings and hearings, including a Planning Commission work session on November 26 and a public hearing on December 10. Sanders and city staff will also speak with the public about “things that they’d like to see discussed and/or considered for the budget” at the December 12

As part of his presentation, Sanders outlined areas requiring additional regular expenditures, primarily to advance the city’s social equity goals. One area of significant investment that may see an increase is the Pathways Fund, which helps connect community members experiencing housing insecurity with resources. The program has had an increased and accelerated need for money beyond the quarterly funding schedule over the last year which, according to city staff, indicates not only a

“This is the second time this year we’ve asked to front the money earlier, so that we are not leaving a community member in a gap. But what that does mean is that more of our community members are in

need, that is even with us putting some limitations on the funding to allow it to stretch as far as it can,” said Deputy City Manager for Social Equity Ashley Marshall. Beyond answering calls and connecting people with resources, human services employees also assist individuals and families in need.

While the details of Charlottesville’s annual budget are still unknown, Sanders says he is working to present a balanced budget that meets council’s priorities without additional tax increases.

“It is my desire that I can bring to you a balanced budget that does not rely on a tax increase. … I am not confident that I’ll be able to do that,” said Sanders. “I would like to have a lower surplus, and I would like to have a budget that I can bring to you that does not require a tax increase. I believe our public has made it clear that it is becoming more and more difficult for them if that is how we continue.”

The initial reading of the American Rescue Plan allocation was originally on the meeting agenda as well, but was pushed to a later date. Council has until the end of the year to finish allocating the more than $7.5 million in funding.

A majority of the remaining ARP funds are expected to go toward efforts to open a low- barrier shelter in the city and expanded social services programming.

The next City Council meeting is Monday, December 2.

“It is my desire that I can bring to you a balanced budget

that does not rely on a tax increase. … I am not confident that I’ll be able to

do that.”

SAM SANDERS, CHARLOTTESVILLE CITY MANAGER

Councilor Michael Payne and the rest of City Council will continue budget discussions into spring 2025.

Billable hours

House of Delegates committee advances resolutions calling for constitutional amendments

By Catie Ratliff reporter@c-ville.com

In the wake of the historic re-election of Donald Trump as the president of the United States, Democrats in the Virginia House of Delegates Privileges and Elections Committee advanced three constitutional amendments on November 13.

The amendments aim to enshrine protections for reproductive rights and same-sex marriage, and reinstate voting rights for people convicted of a felony. Both House Joint Resolutions No. 1 and No. 2, which pertain to abortion access and voting rights respectively, passed the committee 12-9 along party lines. A handful of Republican legislators joined Democrats to pass protections for same-sex marriages.

First introduced by House Majority Leader Charniele Herring on November 20, 2023, HJ 1 calls for an amendment to Article I of the Constitution of Virginia by adding section 11-A, which protects the right to “reproductive freedom, including the ability to make and carry out decisions relating to one’s own prenatal care, postpartum care, contraception, abortion care, miscarriage management, and fertility care.” Under the proposed amendment, abortion access in the third trimester would still be legislatively restricted to instances when a physician deems it medically necessary to “protect the life or physical or mental health of the pregnant individual” or “the fetus is not viable.”

Current law requires that three physicians find termination necessary to protect the life of the mother prior to performing a third-trimester abortion.

While pro-choice advocates and legislators have emphasized the need for the constitutional amendment following the overturn of Roe v. Wade in 2022, pro-life representatives and organizations criticized both the content of the resolution and the lack of time given for the committee to review the new version of the amendment prior to voting.

Under HJ 2, the language in Section I of Article II of the state constitution would be amended to still restrict voting rights of those currently incarcerated for a felony conviction, but fully restore voting rights upon release without requiring any further action. Virginia is one of 10 states that does not automatically restore the voting rights of those convicted of a felony upon completion of their sentence.

The final resolution, HJ 9, would repeal and replace an existing amendment.

Charlottesville-area delegates Katrina Callsen (above) and Amy Laufer both support Virginia constitutional amendments to protect reproductive rights and same-sex marriage, and reinstate voting rights for people convicted of a felony.

While same-sex couples have held the right to marriage nationwide since the Obergefell v. Hodges decision by the Supreme Court in 2015, the Virginia Bill of Rights still includes Section 15-A of Article I—a 2006 amendment that explicitly defines marriage as between one man and one woman. If approved, HJ 9 would almost completely rewrite Section 15-A of Article I to protect “the issuance of marriage licenses to two parties contemplating a lawful marriage” regardless of the “sex, gender, or race of such parties.”

Following the Supreme Courts’ Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision, many LGBTQ+ activists are concerned that Obergefell may be overturned. If the Supreme Court reversed its previous decision, Virginia’s existing prohibition on samesex marriage would go back into effect.

Making amendments to the state constitution is a lengthy process in Virginia. Before they’re put to voters, the resolutions must be approved by the state legislature in two different years separated by a General Assembly election. The earliest the proposed amendments could appear on the ballot is November 2026.

Charlottesville-area delegates Katrina Callsen and Amy Laufer both support the resolutions.

“Virginia is taking the first step in a process to safeguard freedoms we hold dear: reproductive rights, marriage equality, and voting rights,” said Callsen in a November 13 Facebook post. “Our Constitution should protect all Virginians—today, tomorrow, and for generations.”

SUPPLIED PHOTO

Annie Gould Gallery

Now what? Judge is ready to rule in Charlottesville zoning case, but opens door to more evidence

By Sean Tubbs

One month after City Council approved a new zoning code that allows more residential density across Charlottesville, a group of property owners filed a lawsuit arguing they would be harmed by the changes.

Last week, Charlottesville Circuit Judge Claude Worrell dismissed two of the four counts in White v. Charlottesville but left room for further hearings on the other two.

“Plaintiffs have provided a sufficient question of fact for the Court to hear evidence regarding the promulgation of the new zoning ordinance,” Worrell wrote in a three-page ruling dated November 12.

One of the open questions under Virginia law is whether the new development code was “drawn and applied with reasonable consideration for the existing use and character of property,” including a review of transportation requirements and other public services.

So far, all of the legal proceedings have dealt with a motion from the city that states the plaintiffs have no merit and no standing to sue. Each owns a lot that now allows six or eight units rather than the one per mitted under the old zoning.

Worrell concluded the plaintiffs have the right to bring the case, and his invitation for evidence relates to the question of whether Charlottesville followed state regulations.

In his ruling, Worrell also said if both parties are prepared to proceed without submitting new evidence, he would be ready to “rule as to the sufficiency of the suit as a matter of fact and law.”

The property owners want their day in court.

“The plaintiffs expect to present evidence regarding the promulgation of the new zoning ordinance at a trial on this matter,” said Mike Derdeyn, the plaintiffs’ attorney.

gagement, said the city does not comment on pending litigation.

In late September, Fairfax Circuit Court Judge David Schell ruled against a provision added to Arlington County’s land use regulations that had the same intent as Charlottesville’s development code—to increase the number of places people can live. Schell, a retired judge, was assigned to the case after Arlington judges recused themselves because they are homeowners. Worrell, a property owner in Charlottesville, did not recuse himself.

When asked if it would submit anything new, Afton Schneider, Charlottesville’s director of communications and public en-

Part of Schell’s ruling against Arlington’s Expanded Housing Option program hinges on the same section of state code that has kept the Charlottesville case alive. Arlington County has indicated it will appeal the ruling.

According to the website ARLNow.com, Schell’s ruling will permit several dozen units being built under the EHO program to proceed, but he warned they may one day need to be torn down depending on how the appeals process works out.

A handful of “major development plans” have been filed with the City of Charlottesville, including the conversion of 303 Alderman Rd. from a single-family house to six townhomes and a by-right request to

“Plaintiffs have provided a sufficient question of fact for the Court to hear evidence regarding the promulgation of the new zoning ordinance.”

JUDGE CLAUDE WORRELL

Judge Worrell, who has been on the bench since July 2013, issued the three-page ruling nearly five months after hearing arguments in the case.

BENTIVAR MANOR

Exquisite brick home on 88 private acres less than 5 miles from town. Excellent quality throughout, spacious, over 11,00 sf. Beautiful views, tranquil setting, trails, long frontage on the Rivanna River. MLS#652353 $4,875,000 Jim Faulconer, 434.981.0076 and Will Faulconer, 434.987.9455

NEWLISTING

CEDAR RIDGE

A rare 80-acre estate nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The immaculate turnkey custom cedar home, located at the property’s highest point, boasts stunning panoramic mountain views and an array of captivating water features. MLS# 658780 Court Nexsen, 646.660.0700 and Katherine Leddington, 646.593.0333

HIGH FIELDS

Scenic 42-acre farm just 10 miles from Charlottesville. Features pastures, woodlands, serene creek, antique farmhouse, updated kitchen, 4-bedrooms and 3-baths. Panoramic Blue Ridge Mountain vistas, and substantial barn. MLS#651245 $1,565,000 Jim Faulconer, 434.981.0076 or Will Faulconer, 434.987.9455

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 $1,178,000 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

GRASSMERE

Spectacular contemporary home privately situated atop nearly 17 serene park-like acres in the highly desirable Ivy area with Blue Ridge Mountain views! Truly a special & unique offering with a wealth of opportunities to enjoy! This 4-5 BR home with spacious rooms is an entertainer’s dream! $2,235,000 MLS#657960 Will Faulconer, 434.987.9455

CHEVAL NOIR

Exceptional small horse farm on 15 acres in Albemarle. 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath, bonus room, a stunning light-filled great room with storybook views, and first-floor primary suite. Farm: 3-stall barn, paddocks, run-in, trails and pasture. MLS#657379 $1,274,000 Bridget Archer, 434.981.4149 or Pam Dent, 434.960.0161

ENDWYKE

This stunning 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath replica of an 1800s Federal-style home in Appomattox captures the elegance and timeless design of early American architecture while offering the conveniences of modern construction. $1,150,000 MLS#658395 Bridget Archer 434.981.4149 or Pam Dent 434.960.0161

GONE AWAY FARM

barn, & fenced garden. MLS#658352 $3,450,000 Jim Faulconer, 434.981.0076/Will Faulconer 434.987.9455

WESTERN ALBEMARLE

Newly renovated 5,700 sq. ft. brick home on 5 acres between Charlottesville and Ivy in Western Albemarle. With 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, and garage apartment, this home offers elegance and comfort. Enjoy 10 ft ceilings, three fireplaces, and a gourmet kitchen with dual appliances. MLS#657678 $1,950,000 Jennifer Von Reuter, 202.957.3465

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 $1,195,000 Court Nexsen, 646.660.0700

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 at 646.660.0700

E HIGH STREET

Charming Boutique Building in coveted downtown location. Unique, light-filled condo located just one block off Court Square. Opportunity to have an office and/or residence in this immaculate property. Bright, large rooms with a tremendous amount of flexibility of how to use the space. Front and rear entrances with cute deck in the back. $615,000

LOCUST AVENUE

Charming 1929, classic brick home located in north downtown. Tastefully renovated and updated without losing the original character. 9’ ceilings, built-in bookcases, beautiful woodwork, trim and crown Professionally landscaped yard with mature plantings offers room for relaxation, play, and entertaining. Private, off-street parking. Walkable community with wide streets and sidewalks. Quick access to major roadways, UVa and Downtown. Recent upgrades include: new roof 2022, replacement windows, renovated bathrooms, exterior painted 2022, and new Plantation shutters $899,900

STONEY CREEK DRIVE

Fabulous home in Mill Creek South. Set on an elevated lot with fenced backyard and a side deck that overlooks the woods. Unique floor plan includes a first floor primary suite with a walk-in closet; a half bath and a full laundry room. The living room features a masonry gas fireplace. The bright kitchen opens to both the living room and dining room. 3 nice sized bedrooms on the second floor and another full bath. Property includes a large storage shed and a semi-circle driveway. $519,900

Behind an ever-changing food scene, local cooks, mixologists, and makers are working every day to bring out the best in their fields of expertise, and teach a deeper appreciation of what grows in the backyard. From olive oil and pasta to mezcal, world cuisine, and kitchen skills, the passionate culinarians in these pages are just a few reasons why Charlottesville is a delicious place to live.

THE SIMPLE RECIPE OF INGREDIENTS AND TECHNIQUE

HEARD!

“The first step in learning to cook is building confidence in the kitchen. It’s about fostering a mindset where you’re not afraid to experiment, try new things, and even make mistakes. Cooking is an iterative process, and every “failed” dish is a learning opportunity.”

CHEF ANTWON BRINSON, CULINARY CONCEPTS AB LLC

C-VILLE BITES

Pasta, gelato, and more with Chef Kelvino Barrera

“I don’t think I can imagine the number,” laughs C-ville Bites Chef Kelvino Barrera when asked to calculate how many tortellini he’s hand-rolled. Barrera, who mastered pasta rolling during his time at Pippin Hill Farm, will, along with C-ville Bites owner MJ Padilla, turn your home kitchen into a fine Italian cucina. You choose your pasta style, sauce, protein, and accompaniments, and they’ll teach you the ins and outs of pasta-making.

“One of the most interesting requests I’ve had is raviolo al’ uovo,” says Barrera, “It’s challenging to get the ravioli with the runny egg yolk just right. But when you see people get it, and their eyes light up, that’s the priceless part of the experience.”

These classes allow Barrera and Padilla to take little bits and pieces of influence, much like they do in their home kitchens, and provide “an experience not just for the guests but also for us,” Barrera says. “It’s more intimate; everybody feels comfortable coming and talking to you while you cook or asking questions.”

Barrera and Padilla both spent their early years in Honduras, with Barrera moving to Charlottesville at age 13. He got his first kitchen job as a line cook, where he fibbed his way into a meat counter job and learned how to trim steaks on the fly. He’s since run the kitchen at The Shebeen, had stints at The Bebedero and South and Central, worked a food truck, and is now running pasta, gelato, and sauce-making classes at C-ville Bites.

“I always like to put a little bit of my mom’s touch in recipes,” says Barrea, reflecting on growing up assisting his mother and grandmother in the kitchen. “It makes me feel like I’m home in my cooking.”

Along with C-ville Bites’ cooking classes, consider Padilla’s Friday and Saturday food tours, where you’ll stroll the Downtown Mall and sample some of her favorite local fare, and then enjoy a meal that is Charlottesville dining through and through.

“Don’t be afraid to burn that pot of quinoa or overcook the chicken breast. Sit down, enjoy your creation for what it is, notice what went wrong, what flavors you like, what it needs more of, and try again next week. Cooking is all about repetition, failing miserably, and just simply trying again!”

CHEF TRAVIS BURGESS, BIZOU /BANG /LUCE PASTA

WOMEN IN OLIVE OIL

Olive Oil tasting lesson from sommelier Jill Myers

One of the greatest gifts a home chef or any admirer of quality cuisine can learn in the kitchen is that if each dish is to be enjoyed as its own entity, its contents should be considered with the same grace. Alongside the culinary staples crowding your cupboard–the flaky salt, five-pepper grinder behind a glass ramekin of dried oregano—is the sometimes overlooked foundation of many meals: olive oil.

The enviable life goal of Jill Myers, certified as an olive oil sommelier by New York’s International Culinary Center, is to increase accessibility and appreciation for the breadth of crushed and fine goodness that comes from the fruits of a Tuscan olive tree. “It’s a beautiful product,” she says. “Liquid gold.”

Myers offers tasting lessons on the history of olive oils from around the world. Her classes teach the influence of terroir and mindful pressing, and are typically held at wineries throughout the Monticello AVA, in conjunction with a wine pairing. “It’s always through wine that people love olive oil,” she says.

Olive oil and wine parallel in their growing season, in their elegant complement to the culinary experience, and in that the best production is likely resting in a glass jug tucked somewhere in an Italian countryside farmhouse. “I love the culture behind slower food processes,” says Myers as she spills out a golden shade of a Tuscan leccino from her recent Italian harvest.

Myers guides you through the nooks and crannies of the Mediterranean as she recounts conversations held at a sturdy table after a long day’s harvest. “Quality olive oil should taste like a summer garden,” she says. The care and attention it takes to cultivate worthwhile oils calls for their consumption to be paired as you would a thoughtful wine list. As Thomas Jefferson said, “The olive is surely the richest gift of heaven.”

CLAIMING TERROIR

ANNA KIETZEROW IS ONE OF THOSE PEOPLE WHO looks perfectly at home swirling a glass of wine. Fingers cradling the stem, wrist twirling, champagne rising masterfully close to the rim, Kietzerow takes a sip of vintage Alexandre Bonnet Brut Nature, remarking on how much drier and crisper it is compared to the creamier Drappier Brut we tried moments ago. If brut and vintage already feel like a foreign language, or if you’re right at home in the world of oenology, then Kietzerow is precisely who you need to meet.

A philosophy Ph.D. candidate at UVA with a passion for wine, Kietzerow co-founded Cellar Road in 2023 with her “partner in wine” Adam Wagner as a space to explore and share their knowledge with others. Last year, the duo led an educational trip to Champagne, France, immersing guests in exclusive tours of champagne houses and Michelin-starred dinners. If this sounds like your scene, stay tuned: Their next tour will explore Germany’s Moselle Valley—the region where Kietzerow first cut her teeth, or rather her taste buds, on wine.

“How I approach wine has been heavily influenced by my background in philosophy,” explains Kietzerow, who sees wine as a sensory portal to the philosophical ideas about which she’s already passionate.

“My dissertation is about the topic of place, and what it means for something to be a place, and the role that place plays in our social and political lives.” If your mind jumps to terroir, you’re on the right track.

For Kietzerow, terroir goes beyond the soil, climate, and terrain of a region; it includes the winemaker’s hand and cultural essence of a place. Her next class will dive into wines of Tuscany—chianti, brunello, and the complex Super Tuscans. While chianti and brunello are made exclusively with sangiovese grapes, Super Tuscans blend sangiovese with French varietals like merlot, cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, and syrah. Grown in Tuscan soil, these French grapes create a layered terroir, a “gray area” where Kietzerow thrives.

During our conversation, she introduced the sorites paradox, a classic philosophical problem that tackles vagueness. “Imagine I place a single grain of sand before you,” she says. “Is it a heap?” Of course not, but then she adds another. “Is it a heap now?” She’s onto something. When do individual grains of sand become a heap? When does sauvignon blanc from Sancerre differ meaningfully from one grown in the neighboring Loire Valley village of Pouilly-Fumé?

These are the kinds of questions Kietzerow explores as she works toward her Wine and Spirits Education Trust diploma, a challenging credential equivalent to master sommelier. When not at a UVA library, Kietzerow can be found studying at The Wine Guild of Charlottesville, tasting wines, writing descriptions, searching for quality vintages to make accessible to the Charlottesville community. And if you miss her classes or the upcoming Moselle trip, you can join Kietzerow and Wagner on Cellar Road’s podcast, which launches this month. Look out for her masterclass episode with Edouard Cossy, global director at Champagne Laurent-Perrier. It reflects on an indepth tasting and paired dinner at The Alley Light—a rare chance to learn about champagne from someone who doesn’t just swirl the glass, but opens up the story within.—Sarah Golibart Gorman

“Learning to cook for me truly began when I delved into the history of French cuisine, which sparked an appreciation for the art of cooking, especially in a professional setting. That passion led me to connect with other chefs and ultimately to the Culinary Institute of America, where my journey took shape with foundational courses like Product Knowledge and Skills 1 —covering everything from knife cuts to stocks. The skills and insights I gained during those early days have become a part of my daily life, both inside and outside the kitchen.”

THE BEBEDERO / MEJICALI

Mezcal lessons with mixologist River Hawkins

River Hawkins has made a life of conjuring, experimenting, and articulating agave delicacy. Hawkins, a mixologist and partner in The Bebedero on the Downtown Mall and Mejicali on West Main Street, offers two-hour classes for both mezcal and tequila. At your station, stocked with lime, salt, and a rarely empty 1.5 oz. glass, you’ll learn the intricacies of these spirits, their traditions, and why Hawkins pours two parts lime, one tequila, one sugar, and salts the rim. “The lime and salt excite the palate and enhance flavor,” he says. “Spirit, citrus, sugar, salt—the margarita is the quintessential cocktail.”

For every tequila drinker who shivers at the leer of the soaked worm watching from the bottom of the bottle, there is an equivalent in mezcalero that should be tried: the one buried in goat dung. The five regions of Jalisco, Mexico, produce agave that draws comparison to what Champagne is for sparkling wine.

Nuances of flavor are drawn from different appellations, aging styles, mixtos, and production within the five regions, but according to Hawkins, mezcaleros are in agreement: The blanco stage is the perfect stage; this is what tequila is supposed to taste like. Blanco is the unadulterated stage of tequila. Farmers appreciate its simplicity in retaining the essence of the purveyor’s terroir.

Hawkins’ classes teach you how to navigate the liquor store aisles and select the spirit to fit your evening. For a spirit to be considered tequila, it must be 51 percent blue agave and hail from Jalisco, Mexico. The other 49 percent is where you’ll run into over-sugared mixtos that lead to the hangover, swearing you off it. “You can find good things in any mezcal,” Hawkins says, but in selecting tequila, there is a creed that he emphatically implores: 100 percent blue agave. Hawkins’ classes run year-round through the Bebedero, where you’ll make your own cocktail and taste test an array of spirits (snack breaks for housemade guac and elote are included). Go beyond the shot and keep an eye out for the next class and some blue agave.

CHEF DE CUISINE AARON BELLIZZI, MARIGOLD BY JEAN-GEORGES

THE SIMPLE RECIPE OF INGREDIENTS AND TECHNIQUE

THE HAPPY COOK

Tastes from around the world by chef Soledad Liendo

In a shop at Barracks Road Shopping Center there’s a narrow doorway that leads to an array of handcrafted cookware and your place among some of the world’s most notable cuisines. The back of The Happy Cook is where Soledad Liendo shares her culinary journey from her Buenos Aires home to the mastery of global cuisine.

Tickets are sold by the station, each of which accommodates two students. There’s an array of classes to choose from. Perhaps you want to perfect your knife skills or master the cuisine of Argentina. Or maybe just sign up for a seasonal course, one of which is a play on “The Bear”’s seven fishes episode. The two-hour classes lean on technique to master specific dishes amongst a full-course meal and local wine.

Liendo says her culinary journey doesn’t end when the burners cool. “Cooking, for me, is not locked in the kitchen. It’s about cooking, getting together, and enjoying a meal.”

For plenty of chefs, the pursuit of a family-worthy meal comes from the warm memories of their youth. “Gathering was the number one priority,” says Liendo. She recalls thumbing through a family cookbook put together to preserve the aromas and conversations over generations. She calls on this well of flavors to guide her popular Argentinian empanadas and alfajores classes. Liendo also navigates students through comforts from shepherd’s pie to decadent truffle pasta.

Courses at The Happy Cook, as noticed by Forbes, make for a cozy night out or gift idea. In addition, Liendo offers private lessons for small groups that are looking to hone in on a particular cuisine, and her training in French, Spanish, and Italian provides access to unique flavors of the world.

“In the beginning, knowing how to measure dry or liquid ounces for savory recipes and understanding how many ounces are in a cup (8 oz.) is so key. Especially when it comes to baking, working in grams and using a digital scale will allow you to have much more control and understanding of ingredients and how they work in recipes. Baking is a science, and it really helps when your measurements are exact.”

Technical kitchen skills

Ready to take your skills pro? Begin your professional training at Piedmont Virginia Community College, where you can get an associate’s degree in culinary arts, a culinary career studies certificate, or take a class if you’re looking to perfect a baking technique or learn to trim the whole cow.

“If you’re passionate about what you’re doing, we’ll help you get there,” says PVCC culinary arts instructor Caitlin McCabe. “Whether your goal is to open a restaurant or just get better at cooking.”

McCabe brought her degree in food service management to Virginia in pursuit of Southern hospitality, eventually becoming executive chef at The Palms in Lexington.

During their first year, students learn knife skills, the secrets of soups and stocks, and even the philosophical side of a bloody mary before noon. “We’ll break down why brunch is what it is,” says McCabe. “Aside from being fabulous.”

Along with these skills, students learn how to prepare and purchase meat and seafood to cook for a cozy, intimate gathering or a bustling chophouse that feeds hundreds. They’ll gain an understanding of mixology and have the opportunity to pursue classes like artisan bread-making—many of which McCabe is working on developing into one-day courses open to the public.

Year two of the associate’s degree includes understanding the culture of cooking. Where do international and regional cuisines come from? How does religion and historical expansion bring baguettes to South Asia or spices to England? Students will learn to collect twists of global staples and sprinkle them into a menu made for their kitchen.

McCabe emphasizes the program’s ability to accommodate any students looking to further their culinary journey. “We’re happy to be in the community, and look forward to expanding it.”

“I teach a variety of very active cooking classes here … and the first step to learning how to cook is ensuring that [students] are reading the recipes before they begin. Getting their mise en place ready before they start cooking is another crucial step. But the most important thing is to have fun with cooking. I always encourage [everyone] to play with recipes once they are comfortable. Exchanging herbs for different ones or playing with different chilis as long as they are cooking savory recipes, if they are baking they have to stick to the original recipe.”

EXECUTIVE CHEF VICTORIA COSNER, PIPPIN HILL FARM & VINEYARD

“The best chefs all understand the professional kitchen from the ground up. For all cooks—casual and professional alike—the unrelenting desire to understand how a dish you love was made, assessing how it could be improved upon, and then figuring out how to do it yourself (with said improvements) is when you know you’ve officially embraced the concept of learning to cook, which is a never-ending process and constant evolution.”

EXECUTIVE CHEF CHUCK ADCOCK, ROOFTOP CHARLOTTESVILLE AT THE DOYLE HOTEL

POUR YOUR HEART INTO MUDHOUSE’S COFFEE CLASSES

THE MUDHOUSE HAS BEEN GRINDING BEANS from its local roasters since 2009. In fall 2023, the shop began offering classes, giving customers the chance to learn the art and science behind a perfect cup of joe.

Certified as Q graders by the Coffee Quality Institute, Mudhouse professionals are trained in the sensory evaluation of coffee.

“We want typical everyday drinkers to be able to come in and learn something if they’re interested,” says Lindsey Simpkins, Mudhouse’s sales and events manager.

Coffee curious students are taught a range of skills that include triangulation (mini cuppings or tastings), explorations of coffee and sound, how to work specialty equipment, and how to create latte art.

Simpkins says the latte art classes have been the most popular among the public. Not only do they offer a unique date opportunity on the first Friday of each month, the classes also introduce the basic concepts and processes that uphold the Mudhouse standard.

“When [baristas] first come in, they have to learn the difference of the fat content in milk,” says Simpkins. The higher the fat content, Simpkins notes, the more air you want to introduce into your milk while steaming.

Listening to your latte is equally important. Simpkins points out that the sounds accompanying the production of your morning pick-me-up reveal whether the blend is up to par.

“Once it’s steaming, it should sound quiet, almost like a roller coaster going up a hill,” she says. “That’s how I teach people to envision it. If it’s screaming at you, then you didn’t introduce enough air.”

In the cupping class, Mudhouse’s diverse international coffee blends are concentrated in a process of setting ground beans with hot water until they rise and form a crust that is broken for an exquisite tasting experience. This allows students to distinguish the fine details of blends originating from regions such as Ethiopia or Colombia.

“You’re able to tell where coffee comes from based on the flavor profile and acidity level,” says Simpkins. Ethiopian blends, for instance, are normally accompanied by a fruity and floral flavor with a bright acidity, while the Colombian blends are notably chocolaty and sweet. “Once you get to a more elevated level, you’re actually scoring coffee.” Aroma and acidity are broken down to explore the complexities of different coffee blends, and participants are trained to notice all of the subtleties in preparing a grade A cup of coffee.

“We have also considered the fact that some of this isn’t as simple as learning it in a 30- to 45-minute class,” says Simpkins. “So come spring of 2025, [Mudhouse] will be opening up the roaster for private classes.”

The new classes will be conducted one-on-one with professional Mudhouse roasters, and Simpkins says the expanded programming gives participants an opportunity to become true coffee connoisseurs. “I just want people who want to learn and be involved in specialty coffee to know that they have a safe place to learn. We’re going to give you all the information you need so that you can go home and be able to do what we do every day,” Simpkins says. “Hopefully other coffee shops will join suit, and if not we’ll still be here growing.”—Ella Powell

UVA MUSIC EVENTS

Date/Time/Place Event

Friday, 11/22, 1pm

Music Library in OCH

Friday, 11/22, 6:30pm

Carrs Hill Field

Friday, 11/22, 8pm

Old Cabell Hall

Sunday, 11/24, 3:30pm Old Cabell Hall

Sunday, 11/24, 5pm Visible Records

Friday, 11/29, 6:30pm Carrs Hill Field

Tuesday, 12/3, 7:30pm Newcomb Hall Theater

Thursday, 12/5, 1pm Old Cabell Hall & livestream

Thursday, 12/5, 7pm Ern Commons

Friday, 12/6, 1pm Old Cabell Hall & livestream

Saturday, 12/7, 7:30pm Old Cabell Hall

Sunday, 12/8, 3:30pm Old Cabell Hall

Tuesday, 12/10, 8pm

Old Cabell Hall

* denotes free events

Corey Harris *

Making Noise in the Library

Cavalier Marching Band *

Open rehearsal - Star Wars

Baroque Orchestra

Directed by David Sariti

Chamber Singers

Directed by Michael Slon

GobbleGanza * a food drive and live concert

Cavalier Marching Band * Open rehearsal

Voice Recital *

Students of Stephanie Nakasian

Tea Time Recital * in person & live stream

Group Popular Voice Class Recital * Taught by Stephanie Nakasian

Tea Time Recital * in person & live stream

Family Holiday Concert with University Singers & Charlottesville Symphony

Messiah Sing-In

Directed by Michael Slon

To find out about all our events, subscribe

All artists, programs and venues are subject to change.

uvamusic

434.924.3052 | music@virginia.edu | https://music.virginia.edu Arts Box Office: 434.924.3376 | artsboxoffice.virginia.edu

CULTURE

FRIDAY 11/22 THROUGH SUNDAY 12/15

WICKED

GOOD

Leave the prairies of Kansas and head over the rainbow into a magical land with The Wizard of Oz. Featuring all your favorite songs from the classic 1939 film, the show follows Dorothy Gale as she navigates the yellow brick road and encounters fantastical friends and foes along the way. Train your brain, steel your heart, and summon your courage for encounters with winged primates, wicked witches, and the great and powerful wizard. The beloved classic is directed by John Gibson, who returns to town with his own uniquely personal take on the Royal Shakespeare Company’s stage adaptation. Recommended for ages 10+. Ticket prices and curtain times vary. Live Arts, 123 E. Water St. livearts.org

MONDAY 11/25

PRIMARY COMEDY PROVIDER

They say laughter is the best medicine, and comedian Nurse Blake is on call with a heavy dose of hilarity. From Level 1 trauma centers to stages around the country, Blake Lynch has taken his unique experiences as a nurse to find the humor in humerus bones, the lighter side of liver disease, and the fun in hospital funding. Celebrating health care practitioners, this tour features live skits, videos, and interactive stories drawn from real life. And there’s likely to be plenty of care providers in the audience should you bust a gut, break a rib, or slap a knee too hard. $45–59.50, 7pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net

WEDNESDAY 11/20

RESONANT RETROSPECTIVE

Following the 2023 release of her 16th studio album Stories from a Rock n Roll Heart and candid memoir Don’t Tell Anybody the Secrets I Told You, Lucinda Williams and her band bring a unique stage show functioning as a career retrospective. Though Williams can no longer play the guitar in the wake of a stroke she suffered in 2020, the multiGrammy-winning musician is still a consummate songwriter. Featuring short films, photos, visual supplements, and songs with her full band, this evening will see Williams recount some of the singular moments in her life and career. $49.75–84.75, 8pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net

CULTURE THIS WEEK

Wednesday 11/20 music

Berto & Matt. Latin guitar night. Free, 7pm. The Bebedero, 201 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thebebedero.com

Lucinda Williams and Her Band. A unique, career retrospective show, which is the musical analog to Williams’ recently published memoir. The night will include short films, photos, and other visual supplements. $49–84, 8pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net

Mike Rosensky Trio. Live jazz every Wednesday. Free, 8:30pm. Miller’s Downtown, 109 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. millersdowntown.com

Open Mic Night. Open to all musicians, poets, and everyone in between. Hosted by Nicole Giordano. Free, 9pm. Holly’s Diner, 1221 E. Market St.

The Wavelength. Vintage rock, blues, and original tunes for your mid-week music boost. Free, 6:30pm. The Whiskey Jar, 227 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thewhiskeyjarcville.com

stage

David Cross. This Emmy Award-winner and two-time Grammy Award-nominee is an inventive performer, writer, and producer on stage and screen. Ages 18+. $49–75, 8pm. The Jefferson Theater, 110 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. jeffersontheater.com

classes

Paint + Sip: Blazing Winter Sunrise. Learn a variety of techniques and skills to render a blazing winter sunrise scene. No experience necessary. $45, 6pm. Pro Re Nata, 6135 Rockfish Gap Tpke., Crozet. blueridge brushes.com

etc.

Chinatown Private eye Jack Nicholson pokes his nose into a scandal in 1930s Los Angeles. $10, 7pm. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, 5th Street Station. drafthouse.com

Family-Friendly Bingo. Free to play with prizes after each round. Four rounds total. Free, 6pm. Firefly, 1304 E. Market St. fireflycville.com

Fiorano’s Karaoke. Sing your heart out. Easy sign up and a booming sound system. Free, 9pm. Fiorano Restaurant and Bar, 5924 Seminole Trail, Ste. 101, Barboursville. fioranomediterranean.com

Movie and Craft Night: Kiki’s Delivery Service Watch the Miyazaki cult classic while crafting the night away. Bring your own project, or use the supplies on hand to start a new one. Ages 18+. $5, 5pm. The Scrappy Elephant, 1745 Allied St. scrappy elephant.com

Omar and Cedric: If This Ever Gets Weird Home movies provide a window into the artistic and personal relationship between two era-defining artists, Omar Rodríguez-López and Cedric Bixler-Zavala, of At the Drive-In and The Mars Volta. $10, 9:30pm. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, 5th Street Station. drafthouse.com

Rapture Karaoke. Downtown C’ville’s longest-running karaoke party. Hosted by Jenn Deville. Free, 9pm. Rapture, 303 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. rapturerestaurant.com

SuperFly Run Club. Run around the city, then enjoy $5 pints. Raffles and exclusive merchandise to be earned. Free, 6pm. SuperFly Brewing Co., 943 Preston Ave. superflybrewing.com

Trivia Night. Test out your knowledge with teams of up to six players. Winnable prizes for first and second place with a secondto-last-place prize to boot. Free, 6pm. Albemarle CiderWorks, 2545 Rural Ridge Ln., North Garden. albemarleciderworks.com

Trivia with Olivia. Olivia and Maggie bring you all your trivia needs. Come prepared to win with a team or meet folks here. First place winners get a $50 Starr Hill gift card and second place winners get $25. Free, 7pm. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. starrhill.com

Thursday 11/21 music

Berto & Vincent. Blending wild flamenco rumba guitars with Latin and Cuban influences, Berto and Vincent wow audiences with their untamed style. Free, 7pm. The Bebedero, 201 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thebebedero.com

Bomar & Ritter. Mary Bomar and Bob Ritter met in Nashville, Tennessee, and for nearly 35 years have been performing their brand of contemporary folk and folk-rock music. Free, 5pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwoodfarmandwinery.com

Jam with Steve Lanza. A gathering where you are invited to play along. Free, 8pm. Fiorano Restaurant and Bar, 5924 Seminole Trail, Ste. 101, Barboursville. fioranomediterranean.com

Matthew O’Donnell. The Blue Ridge Bard is a cornerstone of the C’ville music scene. Free, 7:30pm. The Whiskey Jar, 227 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thewhiskeyjarcville.com

Mipso. North Carolina quartet known for combining a traditional string band format with close harmony and a variety of modern influences. $25–30, 8pm. The Jefferson Theater, 110 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. jeffersontheater.com

dance

Fall Dance Concert. An evening of engaging, evocative, and eclectic performances. Featuring the work of student, faculty, and guest choreographers. $5–7, 8pm. Culbreth Theatre, 109 Culbreth Rd. drama.virginia.edu

stage

Murder Mystery. Can you uncover the murderer before the professionals? If not, no problem, sit back and take in the situational comedy of Bent Theatre. $10, 7pm. Albemarle CiderWorks, 2545 Rural Ridge Ln., North Garden. albemarleciderworks.com

words

Medicine and Society: The Reinvention of Old Age. A conversation with Duke historian James Chappel, Ph.D., about his latest book, Golden Years: How Americans Invented and Reinvented Old Age. Free, 5:30pm. The Center at Belvedere, 540 Belvedere Blvd. thecentercville.org

etc.

Dart Night. Weekly luck-of-the-draw double-elimination games. Throwers get $1-off pints during play. Free, 6pm. Decipher Brewing, 1740 Broadway St. Role Playing Game Hangout. Wizards and warriors unite. Jump into many RPG games including the ever-popular D&D 5th edition. All experience levels are welcome. DM program available to earn store credit while running a game. Free, 3pm. The End Games, 390 Hillsdale Dr. theendgames.co

Trivia Night with Mike & Miranda. Put on your thinking caps for five rounds of trivia for teams of up to six players. Free, 6:15pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potterscraftcider.com

Vineyard Puzzle Hunt. Like an escape room but at a winery. Crack codes and unravel riddles while sampling Charlottesville’s best wine, beer, and cider. Play when you want and go at your own pace. $15, available noon–8pm. Please confirm Eastwood Winery and Potter’s Cider hours beforehand. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. puzzledbee.com

Friday 11/22

music

Post-punk tribute show. Burn, The Cure Experience and Fast Fashion: The Depeche Mode Experience are teaming up for a night of post-punk tribute greatness. $12–15, 7pm. Pro Re Nata, 6135 Rockfish Gap Tpke., Crozet. prnbrewery.com

Chickenhead Blues Band. New Orleans boogie-woogie, upbeat, rhythm and blues sounds. Free, 6pm. Glass House Winery, 5898 Free Union Rd., Free Union. glass housewinery.com

Daniel Grotz. An organ recital featuring music by Bach, Böhm, and Mendelssohn. Free, 7:30pm. Westminster Presbyterian Church, 400 Rugby Rd. westminsterorgan concertseries.org

FarAway. A married singer-songwriter duo who have played music together for over 10 years. Known for tight harmonies and a folk-pop style. Free, 5pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwood farmandwinery.com

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

Josh Mayo. Josh Mayo and his group of great musicians provide originals and covers to enjoy as the sun sets. Free, 6pm. Högwaller Brewing, 1518 E. High St. hogwallerbrewing.com

Julie Williams. This CMT “Next Women of Country” inductee is turning heads in Nashville’s Americana music scene with her compelling blend of country storytelling and soft-yet-powerful vocal performance. $22–27, 8pm. The Front Porch , 221 E. Water St. frontporchcville.com

Ken Farmer & the Authenticators. A tent soirée featuring roots rock, rockabilly, blues, folk, and old country. Free, 6pm. Chisholm Vineyards at Adventure Farm, 1135 Clan Chisholm Ln., Earlysville. chisholmvineyards.com

Malinda. With a goal to create collective effervescence through art, this D.C.-born and raised singer-songwriter comes to the table with a unique blend of folk, pop, and indie styles. $20–70, 8pm. The Southern Café and Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.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

Slick Montgomery Band. Blues, bluegrass, and barbecue. Free, 8pm. Ace Biscuit & Barbecue, 600 Concord Ave.

The Pedal Steel Show. Rebecca Porter & The Rhinestones, Ramona & The Holy Smokes, and The Wayward Leaves all come to Batesville as part of a state-wide tour. $10, 7pm. The Batesville Market, 6624 Plank Rd., Batesville. batesvillemarket.com

UVA Baroque Orchestra. The University of Virginia Department of Music presents performances of music from the 17th and 18th centuries. Free–$10, 8pm. Old Cabell Hall. music.virginia.edu

dance

Fall Dance Concert. See listing for Thursday, November 21. $5–7, 8pm. Culbreth Theatre, 109 Culbreth Rd. drama.virginia.edu

Frikitona. A classics vs. current reggaeton dance party. Ages 18+. $15–22, 9pm. The Jefferson Theater, 110 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. jeffersontheater.com

stage

Deathtrap A comedy-thriller who-done-it with many twists and turns. $16.80, 7:30pm. Victory Hall Theater, 401 Valley St., Scottsville. scottsvillecenter.org

Drag Bonanza. A night of high-octane entertainment featuring the unforgettable talents of Beau Tox, Teddi Baerbach, and Margaret Courtney Clisham. Hosted by Cherry Possums. Ages 16+. $12–20, 8:30pm. The Southern Cafe & Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com

My Father’s Dragon With talking animals, a daring rescue, a flying dragon, buried treasure, and lots of humor throughout, this fabulous adventure is brought to the stage in Enchantment Theatre’s distinctive style. $14–19, 6pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net

The Wizard of Oz Featuring the catchy musical score from the 1939 classic film, this enchanting RSC stage adaptation sweeps us from the Kansas prairie way up high and over the rainbow. Directed by John Gibson. $29–35, 8pm. Live Arts, 123 E. Water St. livearts.org etc.

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. puzzledbee.com

Fiorano’s Karaoke. See listing for Wednesday, November 20. Free, 9pm. Fiorano Restaurant and Bar, 5924 Seminole Trail, Ste. 101, Barboursville. fioranomediterranean.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

Vineyard Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Thursday, November 21. $15, available noon–8pm. Please confirm Eastwood Winery and Potter’s Cider hours beforehand. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. puzzledbee.com

Saturday 11/23

music

Bill Frisell Trio. A guitarist and composer with more than 40 years worth of celebrated recordings. With Thomas Morgan and Rudy Royston. $42–47, 6pm and 9pm. The Southern Cafe & Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com

Creedence Clearwater Recital. The premier CCR tribute band, playing all of your favorite CCR songs. $10, 7pm. Pro Re Nata Brewpub & Music Hall, 6135 Rockfish Gap Tpk., Crozet. prnbrewery.com

Her Checkered Past. Join Anne O’Brien and Frank Bechter in the orchard for live music that will warm your heart. This duo keeps you humming along to popular songs. Free, 2:30pm. Albemarle CiderWorks, 2545 Rural Ridge Ln., North Garden. albemarleciderworks.com

Mike Burris Band. An evening of country-tinged roots rock, with a nod to Texas blues and a good pop hook. $10, 7pm. The Batesville Market, 6624 Plank Rd., Batesville. batesvillemarket.com

CULTURE STAGES

David Cross is good at what he does, and he likes doing it So maybe you will like it too

By CM Gorey

Comedian, actor, and writer David Cross is a recognizable face thanks to still-fresh classics like ’90s HBO sketch show “Mr. Show” and the sitcom “Arrested Development,” as well as more recent roles such as that of Sy Grossman on Netflix’s “The Umbrella Academy.” Decades ago, Cross earned a core of devoted Gen X fans, and has since cultivated a lengthy list of critical praise, as well as multiple Grammy Award nominations for Best Comedy Album. His many successes elsewhere (animated blockbuster voiceovers, British TV) haven’t prevented him from continually revisiting his stand-up roots, though, and his The End of the Beginning of the End tour brings his singular disarming wit back to town. We spoke to him by phone to find out why, after more than 40 years, he’s still drawn to cracking wise for crowds.

C-VILLE Weekly: I always thought stand-up seemed like the most difficult thing anybody in the performing arts could choose to do. So why do you keep doing it?

David Cross: I like difficult things. I like the challenge. But it’s not difficult anymore; I’ve been doing it for, geez, two-thirds of my life now. The shortest answer is I really enjoy it. I don’t have to do it. I choose to do it.

Is there a specific aspect you like most that keeps you coming back to it?

I’m having fun. And being out on the road is another aspect I like; I love traveling across the world. And that hour and 20 minutes or so that I’m on stage is really fun. So whatever kind of shitty day I’ve had or shitty news I’ve gotten, I know that that will be a good hour-plus time spent that day.

You mentioned that you’ve been doing it for so long. Besides your early years where you were still figuring things out, how has your approach changed?

For the last five tours or so I’ve been repeating a process and I’ve got it down to a science. When I’m ready to start working again, I will do these shows called “Shooting the Shit, Seeing What Sticks” in Brooklyn, where I live. I’ll have a couple of special guests and I literally am starting from scratch, with notes and papers.

I record everything because I do all my writing on stage, basically. I’ll do it in a tiny 99-seat basement theater for a couple of months—probably eight to 10 of those things, then I’ll move to a slightly bigger venue for six shows. It’s about a five-month process to write a new hour. And when I go out on tour, the set will change fairly significantly from the first show I do to the 70th show.

In addition to that, I saw that you’re also doing a podcast every week [“Senses Working Overtime with David Cross”], and I have to confess that I haven’t listened to it—but I saw some clips on Instagram. When the hell are people supposed to listen to podcasts? Do you listen to podcasts?

I don’t. My wife does. As far as when you’re supposed to listen to it, that’s a question that only you can answer, my friend.

How would you describe your act for people who haven’t seen you?

I’ve been doing it for a long, long time. I know what I’m doing. I’m not a clean comic. I’m a little edgy. I’m not for everyone. And if you’re not familiar, check it out. You may like it or you may hate it. (pauses) I don’t know who you are.

David Cross performs at The Paramount Theater on November 20.

SUPPLIED PHOTO

CULTURE THIS WEEK

Met Live in HD: Tosca

Saturday 11/23 | The Paramount Theater

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29

Saturday 11/23

Mirabelle & Matty. This father-daughter duo will entertain you with fabulous and fun sing-along tunes. Free, 2pm. DuCard Vineyards, 40 Gibson Hollow Ln., Etlan. ducardvineyards.com

Ric Robertson Band. An intimate evening with the Ric Robertson Band, featuring singer-songwriter Dori Freeman. $20–25, 7:30pm. The Front Porch , 221 E. Water St. frontporchcville.com

Shane Smith & The Saints. An American red dirt country band from Austin, Texas. $26–31, 8pm. The Jefferson Theater, 110 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. jeffersontheater.com

Sue Harlow. An Americana-folk singersongwriter whose haunting vocals delve into the depths of what makes people real. Free, 1pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwoodfarm andwinery.com

The LockJaw Band. Rock all evening long to covers of fan favorites from the ‘60s through the ‘80s, and beyond. Free, 5pm. Glass House Winery, 5898 Free Union Rd., Free Union. glasshousewinery.com

The Wavelength. Upbeat blues, rock, and a fusion of both. Free, 5pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwood farmandwinery.com

dance

Fall Dance Concert. See listing for Thursday, November 21 .$5–7, 8pm. Culbreth Theatre, 109 Culbreth Rd. drama.virginia.edu

stage

Deathtrap See listing for Friday, November 22. $16.80, 2pm. Victory Hall Theater, 401 Valley St., Scottsville. scottsvillecenter.org

Met Live in HD: Tosca Extraordinary Norwegian soprano Lise Davidsen stars as the passionate title diva in David McVicar’s thrilling production. $22–26, 1pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net

The Wizard of Oz See listing for Friday, November 22. $29–35, 8pm. Live Arts, 123 E. Water St. livearts.org classes

Autumn Leaves. Discover the beauty of painting in this beginner watercolor workshop with a focus on rendering vibrant, autumnal maple leaves. Ages 14+. $40, 3pm. The Scrappy Elephant, 1745 Allied St. scrappyelephant.com

Bee a Crocheter. Learn how to crochet a bee in this intro to amigurumi. Basic crochet experience required. Ages 12+. $40, noon. The Scrappy Elephant, 1745 Allied St. scrappyelephant.com

Crafty Date Night. An instructor leads you and your partner through a fun and easy craft, designed to inspire and entertain. This week: coasters. $50, 7pm. Pikasso Swig Craft Bar, 333 Second St. SE. pikassoswig.com

Learn to Knit. Learn the basics of knitting in this beginner-friendly class. 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. scrappyelephant.com

Thanksgiving Table Arrangement. A fun and festive event where you can create your own centerpiece inside a real pumpkin. Led by Leap Frog Flower Farm. $30, 1pm. Chisholm Vineyards at Adventure Farm, 1135 Clan Chisholm Ln., Earlysville. chisholmvineyards.com

etc.

Brewery Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Friday, November 22. $18, all day. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. puzzledbee.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

Wicked Movie Party. Experience the Ozsome musical in a party environment; it will be as exciting as a day trip to the Emerald City. $15, 10am. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, 5th Street Station. drafthouse.com

Sunday 11/24

music

John Kelly. Acoustic tunes. Families, picnics, and well-behaved leashed pups welcome. Free, 2pm. Glass House Winery, 5898 Free Union Rd., Free Union. glass housewinery.com

Melvin Seals & JGB. From blues to funk, rock to jazz, Melvin Seals & JGB serve up a tasty mix with a little R&B and gospel thrown in to spice things up. $39–75, 8pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net

Michael Elswick Gathering. Jazz, blues, Latin, swing, ballads and, of course, Cambodian surf rock. Free, 1pm. Chisholm Vineyards at Adventure Farm, 1135 Clan Chisholm Ln., Earlysville. chisholmvineyards.com

Michael Johnson. Dinner as usual with some live music. 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. fioranomediterranean.com

Ryan Hollander. An exciting blend of classic sophistication and contemporary relevance spanning pop, R&B and rock. Free, 2pm. DuCard Vineyards, 40 Gibson Hollow Ln., Etlan. ducardvineyards.com

Sea Shanty Community Sing. Set sail for a nautical sing-along, led by folk singer Matthew O’Donnell. Presented by the Blue Ridge Irish Music School. Free, 3pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potterscraftcider.com

Tara Mills. An original blend of folk, bluegrass, and Americana inspired by the Blue Ridge Mountains. Free, 2:30pm. Albemarle CiderWorks, 2545 Rural Ridge Ln., North Garden. albemarleciderworks.com

UVA Chamber Singers. The UVA Department of Music presents a concert of folk songs from around the world. Free–$15, 3:30pm. St. Paul’s Memorial Church, 1700 University Ave. stpaulsmemorialchurch.org

stage

Deathtrap See listing for Friday, November 22. $16.80, 2pm. Victory Hall Theater, 401 Valley St., Scottsville. scottsvillecenter.org

classes

Paint + Sip: Evergreen Aurora. Learn a variety of techniques and skills to render an evergreen aurora scene. $38, noon. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. blueridgebrushes.com

Watercolor Workshop. Designed for beginner to intermediate artists, artist Blake Bottoms takes you step by step through watercolor techniques to bring the vibrant ranculus flower to life on paper. Ages 15+. $40, 2pm. The Scrappy Elephant, 1745 Allied St. scrappyelephant.com

etc.

Brewery Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Friday, Noveber 22. $18, all day. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. puzzledbee.com

Music Bingo. Fun for the whole family, with gift card prizes for the winners. Free, 2pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwoodfarmandwinery.com

Role Playing Game Hangout. See listing for Thursday, November 21. Free, 4pm. The End Games, 390 Hillsdale Dr. theend games.co

WTJU Family Radio Day. Bring the family for a peek into WTJU’s broadcast studios. Kids experiment with sound equipment, enjoy a radio themed storytime, and participate in a MIMA led activity. Free, 10am. WTJU 91.1 FM, 2244 Ivy Rd. wtju.net

Monday 11/25

music

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 spins 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.

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. Ages 18+. Free, 8pm. The Southern Cafe & Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com

Game Night. Meet up with others at the brewery, play a game, and have a chance to win prizes. Bring your favorite games from home. All board, card, puzzle games, and ages welcome. Free, 5pm. 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, 1740 Broadway St.

Nurse Blake. From nursing school to the bedsides of patients, Nurse Blake uses his unique experiences for a fun-filled comedy event that celebrates the hard work of healthcare providers. $45–59, 7pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net

Planes, Trains and Automobiles There’s no place like home for the holidays—if you can get there. Steve Martin and John Candy run the gauntlet of cross-country travel. $10, 6pm. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, 5th Street Station. drafthouse.com

Trivia Night. Hosted by Geeks Who Drink. Six players per team, maximum. Free, 7pm. Selvedge Brewing, 2415 Ivy Rd., Ste. 190. selvedgebrewing.com

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. threenotchdbrewing.com

Tuesday 11/26

music

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

etc.

Board Game Night. Open to all ages and backgrounds. Come in to play your favorite table top games. Use our board game library and/or bring your own. Free, 5pm. The End Games, 390 Hillsdale Dr. theendgames.co

Charlottesville Run Club. Meet 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., Ste. 101. starrhill.com

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, 7–9pm. 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, November 21. Free, 3pm. The End Games, 390 Hillsdale Dr. theendgames.co

CULTURE EXTRA

Reaching for something

Guitarist Bill Frisell relies on instinct, relationships to explore jazz

By Dave Cantor

Bill Frisell is a cypher for American music, ping-ponging among genres for the past five decades.

Like most jazz musicians, the guitarist keeps his ears wide open. But encountering vibraphonist Gary Burton playing what at one point was called “jazz rock” sent Frisell’s understanding of the genre down a new path.

“The whole psychedelic thing was happening, but then the music was on such a high level,” Frisell says of hearing Burton’s late-’60s and early-’70s groups during his youth. “I mean the guitarists that Gary had in his band were—I guess people don’t even know half of these guys. Even before Larry Coryell, he played with Hank Garland. … Then there’s Jerry Hahn, Sam Brown, John Scofield, Pat Metheny, Mick Goodrick. It’s incredible the guitar players that went through that band.”

As a kid, Frisell frequented a music shop and cultural center run by Harry Tuft—a figure in Denver maybe akin to Moses Asch. He’d hang around, check out instruments and records that were for sale, and take in heady conversations about performers he wasn’t necessarily familiar with.

By his teenage years, Frisell was deep into the clarinet and eventually headed off to college to further study the instrument. His folks also moved from Denver to New Jersey during the ’70s, and then later to North Carolina, where Frisell would “go off exploring” during visits.

In the western portion of North Carolina and in southwest Virginia, Frisell again found music that rearranged his brain—folk strains developed in tight-knit communities, relatively untouched by the genre’s electric and pop-oriented derivations.

“It was really kind of mind-blowing for me,” the guitarist says. “I hadn’t heard that for real, you know, stuff that people had just grown up [with] there and played. That had a huge impact on me.”

Frisell’s own work has stretched to insinuate the spectrum of music he’s encountered over the decades, veering from jazz standards to familiar folk tunes. In some ways, it was drummer Paul Motian—best known for working in Bill Evans’ trio— who gave the guitarist a significant platform to explore in the ’80s.

“He really recognized me for what my voice was. He wanted a guitar player, but it wasn’t so much about the guitarist. He wanted me as a person,” Frisell says about the late drummer. “I felt so wide open to do what-

ever I felt. It wasn’t like I was filling a role of what he thought a guitarist should be. It was like, ‘Here, just take it as far as you can go.’”

Frisell’s developed long-standing relationships with a raft of other players—including drummer Rudy Royston; they first played together back in 1993, the guitarist says. During the ensuing decades, Royston’s contributed to a handful of the bandleader’s albums, as well as provided the backbeat for Frisell’s regular trio, which is making a stop at The Southern for a pair of Saturday shows.

In addition to Royston, the guitarist’s group will include Thomas Morgan at its Charlottesville date—a bassist who’s played with Frisell for more than a decade, contributing to a few duo albums on ECM alongside the bandleader. Both rhythm players were also a part of the guitarist’s Grammy-nominated Orchestras, a 2024 album that featured a wealth of European classical talent.

It should maybe go without saying: There’s not a set list for the trio’s local performance.

“The number of songs that we know and the possibilities are so huge that we never really—especially with this trio—we don’t really plan at all,” Frisell says. “Anything I can throw at those guys, they’re gonna know what it is.”

While familiarity with repertoire can help performers shuttle ideas from their minds down to their fingers, attaining that kind of fluidity is a career-long journey.

Frisell referred to the distance between intent and desired outcome as a “huge chasm.”

“I can never get what it is I’m actually trying to do to come out,” he says. “It’s always … reaching for something that you can’t quite get. So, you just get as close as you can, and that’s what keeps you going.”

Guitarist Bill Frisell (center) is joined by bassist Thomas Morgan and drummer Rudy Royston for two shows at The Southern Café and Music Hall on Saturday. SUPPLIED

PUZZLES

SUDOKU

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

BY MATT JONES

ACROSS

1. No longer dangerous

6. Cut (down)

9. “Take ___ from me ...”

13. Pizza topping, technically

14. “Lucky Jim” novelist Kingsley

16. Salacious

17. True to a cause

18. “Archer” character Kane

19. Night, at the MusÈe

20. 2002 Disney title duo

23. “Much ___ About Nothing”

25. 1960s TV Tarzan Ron who died in 2024

26. “Didn’t see you there!”

27. Almost there

30. Kyoto currency

31. Think ahead

32. Title for Galahad or Guinness

33. Singer Sumac

35. Place to get the highlights?

37. Statute

39. Make happy

43. Grass roll

45. Brain activity meas.

47. Volunteer’s offer

48. Abbr. in many Black church names

51. ‘70s sitcom character always talking about “the big one”

54. 1930s world heavyweight champion whose son was on “The Beverly Hillbillies”

56. Mid-afternoon drink

57. High points

58. Terrain that’s tough to predict, or a representation of the circled letters

61. “Monsieur Hulot’s Holiday” writer Jacques

62. Cold cuts shop

63. Out of style

66. Ht. above sea level

67. Aspiring DA’s exam

68. Greek salad item

69. Mineral deposit

70. U.S. Election Day, e.g.

71. Command to an attack dog

DOWN

1. Gallaudet University subj.

2. Confucian principle

3. Support small businesses, perhaps

4. Berry in a bowl

5. Former Fed head Janet

6. Kuala Lumpur’s country

7. Muscat’s country

8. Schedule space, metaphorically

9. “L.A. Law” character Becker

10. Without slack

11. Christmas tree decoration

12. Slithering constrictor

15. Strut about

21. Former American automaker

22. Herb in stuffing

23. Hooded vipers

24. “3 Feet High and Rising” group ___ Soul

28. Hawaiian mackerels

29. Took a curved path

34. Arabic alphabet starter

36. Jack Sprat’s dietary rule

38. Experiment area

40. Word that forms a retronym when appearing before “guitar”

41. Baseball field cover

42. Concludes

44. Hanukkah toy nobody actually plays with, spelled more Yiddishly

46. Earth goddess of Greek mythology

48. Beer brand from Holland

49. Hawaiian “thank you”

50. Left

52. Jim Varney’s movie series alter ego

53. South African restaurant chain known for peri-peri chicken

55. Pantothenic acid, in a vitamin complex

59. Actress Summer of “Firefly”

60. “Giraffe in Flames” painter

64. Brink of a holiday

65. FDR or JFK

By Rob Brezsny

Libra

Sagittarius

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Many people living in the Napo province of Ecuador enjoy eating a dish called ukuy, which is a Kichwa word for large ants. This is not an exotic meal for them. They may cook the ukuy or simply eat the creatures alive. If you travel to Napo anytime soon, Libra, I urge you to sample the ukuy. According to my reading of the astrological omens, such an experiment is in alignment with the kinds of experiences you Libras should be seeking: outside your usual habits, beyond your typical expectations, and in amused rebellion against your customary way of doing things.

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): I invite you to get a head start on formulating your New Year’s resolutions. January 1 is a good time to instigate robust new approaches to living your life, but the coming weeks will be an even better time for you Sagittarians. To get yourself in the mood, imagine you have arrived at Day Zero, Year One. Simulate the feeling of being empty and open and fertile. Imagine that nothing binds you or inhibits you. Assume that the whole world is eager to know what you want. Act as if you have nothing to prove to anyone and everything to gain by being audacious and adventurous.

Virgo

Scorpio

Capricorn

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): There was a long period when many popular songs didn’t come to a distinct end. Instead, they faded out. The volume would gradually diminish as a catchy riff repeated over and over again. As you approach a natural climax to one of your cycles, Capricorn, I recommend that you borrow the fade-out as a metaphorical strategy. In my astrological opinion, it’s best not to finish abruptly. See if you can create a slow, artful ebb or a gradual, graceful dissolution.

Aquarius

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21): The theory of karma suggests that all our actions, good and bad and in-between, send ripples out into the world. These ripples eventually circle back to us, ensuring we experience events that mirror our original actions. If we lie and cheat, we will be lied to and cheated on. If we give generously and speak kindly about other people, we will be the recipient of generosity and kind words. I bring this up, Scorpio, because I believe you will soon harvest a slew of good karma that you have set in motion through your generosity and kindness. It may sometimes seem as if you’re getting more benevolence than you deserve, but in my estimation, it’s all well-earned.

Sagittarius

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): I encourage you to buy yourself fun presents that give you a feisty boost. Why? Because I want you to bring an innovative, starting-fresh spirit into the ripening projects you are working on. Your attitude and approach could become too serious unless you infuse them with the spunky energy of an excitable kid. Gift suggestions: new music that makes you feel wild; new jewelry or clothes that make you feel daring; new tools that raise your confidence; and new information that stirs your creativity.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): When he was young, Aquarian musician and sound engineer Norio Ohga wrote a critical letter to the electronics company now known as Sony. He complained in detail about the failings of their products. Instead of being defensive, executives at the company heeded Ohga’s suggestions for improvement. They even hired him as an employee and ultimately made him president of the company at age 40. He went on to have a stellar career as an innovator. In the spirit of the Sony executives, I recommend that you seek feedback and advice from potential helpers who are the caliber of Ohga. The information you gather in the coming weeks could prove to be highly beneficial.

Capricorn

Pisces

(Feb. 19-March 20): What would your paradise look and feel like? If you could remake the world to suit your precise needs for maximum freedom, well-being, and inspiration, what changes would you instigate? Now is an excellent time to ponder

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): On a Tuesday in August in 2012—one full Jupiter cycle ago—a Capricorn friend of mine called in sick to his job as a marketing specialist. He never returned. Instead, after enjoying a week off to relax, he began working to become a dance instructor. After six months, he was teaching novice stu-

FREE WILL ASTROLOGY

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): When an infant giraffe leaves its mother’s womb, it falls six feet to the ground. I suspect that when you are reborn sometime soon, Virgo, a milder and more genial jolt will occur. It may even be quite rousing and inspirational— not rudely bumpy at all. By the way, the plunge of the baby giraffe snaps its umbilical cord and stimulates the creature to take its initial breaths—getting it ready to begin its life journey. I suspect your genial jolt will bring comparable benefits.

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21): According to my grandmother, I have such a mellifluous voice I should have pursued a career as a newscaster or radio D.J. In eighth grade, my science teacher admired my work and urged me to become a professional biologist. When I attended Duke University, my religious studies professor advised me to follow his path. Over the years, many others have offered their opinions about who I should be. As much as I appreciated their suggestions, I have always trusted one authority: my muses. In the coming weeks and months, Scorpio, you may, too, receive abundant advice about your best possible path. You may be pressured to live up to others’ expectations. But I encourage you to do as I have done. Trust your inner advisors.

dents. Three years later, he was proficient enough to teach advanced students, and five years later, he was an expert. I am not advising you, Capricorn, to quit your job and launch your own quixotic quest for supremely gratifying work. But if you were ever going to start taking small steps toward that goal, now would be a good time. It’s also a favorable phase to improve the way your current job works for you.

these possibilities, Pisces. You have more ability than usual to shape and influence the environments where you hang out. And a good way to rouse this power is to imagine your ideal conditions. Be bold and vivid. Amuse yourself with extravagant and ebullient fantasies as you envision your perfect world.

Aries

Aquarius

going where it’s most needed and appreciated. What kind of giving makes you feel best?

Gemini

Aries

be more likely than usual to take good care of my home—and your own home, too. It’s a good time to redecorate and freshen up the vibe.

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Three years ago, an Indonesian man celebrated his marriage to a rice cooker, which is a kitchen accessory. Khoirul Anam wore his finest clothes while his new spouse donned a white veil. In photos posted on social media, the happy couple are shown hugging and kissing. Now might also be a favorable time for you to wed your fortunes more closely with a valuable resource—though there’s no need to perform literal nuptials. What material thing helps bring out the best in you? If there is no such thing, now would be a good time to get it.

Pisces

(March 21-April 19): Renowned composer Mozart had a sister nicknamed Nannerl. During their childhoods, she was as much a musical prodigy as he. They toured Europe doing performances together, playing harpsichord and piano. Some critics regarded her as the superior talent. But her parents ultimately decided it was unseemly for her, as a female, to continue her development as a genius. She was forcibly retired so she could learn housekeeping and prepare for marriage. Is there a part of your destiny, Aries, that resembles Nannerl’s? Has some of your brilliance been suppressed or denied? The coming months will be an excellent time to recover and revive it.

Taurus

(May 21-June 20): Humans have been eating a wide range of oranges since ancient times. Among the most popular type in modern times is the navel orange. It’s large, seedless, sweet, juicy, and easy to peel. But it didn’t exist until the 1820s, when a genetic mutation on a single tree in Brazil spawned this new variety. Eventually, the navel became a revolutionary addition to the orange family. I foresee a metaphorically comparable development in your life during the coming months, Gemini. An odd tweak or interesting glitch could lead to a highly favorable expansion of possibilities. Be alert for it.

Cancer

(March 21-April 19): Although there are over 7,000 varieties of apples, your grocery store probably offers no more than 15. But you shouldn’t feel deprived. Having 15 alternatives is magnificent. In fact, most of us do better in dealing with a modicum of choices rather than an extravagant abundance. This is true not just about apples but also about most things. I mention this, Aries, because now is an excellent time to pare down your options in regard to all your resources and influences. You will function best if you’re not overwhelmed with possibilities. You will thrive as you experiment with the principle that less is more.

Taurus

Cancer

larity, and delight. I trust you will schedule a series of encounters and adventures that provide you with a surplus of these necessary resources. Can you afford a new toy or two? Or a romantic getaway to a sanctuary of adoration? Or a smart gamble that will attract into your vicinity a stream of rosy luck? I suggest that you be audacious in seeking the sweet, rich feelings you require.

Virgo

(June 21-July 22): These days, you are even smarter and more perceptive than usual. The deep intelligence of your higher self is pouring into your conscious awareness with extra intensity. That’s a good thing, right? Yes, mostly. But there may be a downside: You could be hyper-aware of people whose thinking is mediocre and whose discernment is substandard. That could be frustrating, though it also puts you in a good position to correct mistakes those people make. As you wield the healing power of your wisdom, heed these words from Johann Wolfgang von Goethe: “Misunderstandings and lethargy produce more wrong in the world than deceit and malice do.”

(Feb. 19-March 20): For many years, I didn’t earn enough money to pay taxes. I was indigent. Fortunately, social programs provided me with food and some medical care. In recent years, though, I have had a better cash flow. I regularly send the US government a share of my income. I wish they would spend all my tax contributions to help people in need. Alas, just 42 percent of my taxes pay for acts of kindness to my fellow humans, while 24 percent goes to funding the biggest military machine on earth. Maybe someday, there will be an option to allocate my tax donations exactly as I want. In this spirit, Pisces, I invite you to take inventory of the gifts and blessings you dole out. Now is a good time to correct any dubious priorities. Take steps to ensure that your generosity is

(April 20-May 20): Do you know if you have any doppelgängers, Taurus? I bet you will meet one in the coming weeks. How about soul friends, alter egos, or evil twins? If there’s no one like that in your life right now, they may arrive soon. And if you already know such people, I suspect your relationships will grow richer. Mirror magic and shadow vision are in the works. I’m guessing you will experience the best, most healing kind of double trouble. Substitutes and stand-ins will have useful offers and tempting alternatives. Parallel realities may come leaking through into your reality. Opportunities for symbiosis and synergy will be at an all-time high. Sounds like wild fun!

Watercolor

beyond! w/ John A. Hancock &

Gemini

(June 21-July 22): Cancerian, you are a finalist for our Most Resourceful and Successful Survivor of the Year trophy. And if you take a brief trip to hell in the next two weeks, you could assure your victory. But wait! Let me be more exact: Hell is an incorrect terminology; I just used it for shock effect. The fact is that hell is a religious invention that mischaracterizes the true nature of the realm of mystery, shadows, and fertile darkness. In reality, the nether regions can be quite entertaining and enriching if you cultivate righteous attitudes. And what are those attitudes? A frisky curiosity to learn truths you have been ignorant about; a brave resolve to unearth repressed feelings and hidden yearnings; and a drive to rouse spiritual epiphanies that aren’t available when you’re in the trance of everyday consciousness.

(April 20-May 20): Taurus comedian Jerry Seinfeld, now 70 years old, has testified, “As a child, the only clear thought I had was ‘get candy.’” I encourage you to be equally single-minded in the near future, Taurus. Not necessarily about candy—but about goodies that appeal to your inner child as well as your inner teenager and inner adult. You are authorized by cosmic forces to go in quest of experiences that tickle your bliss.

Leo

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): December will be Home Enhancement Month for you Virgos. Get started immediately. I’ll offer tips for how to proceed and ask you to dream up your own ideas. 1. Phase out décor or accessories that no longer embody the style of who you have become. 2. Add new décor and accessories that will inspire outbreaks of domestic bliss. 3. Encourage everyone in your household to contribute creative ideas to generate mutual enhancement. 4. Do a blessing ritual that will raise the spiritual vibes. 5. Invite your favorite people over and ask them to shower your abode with blessings.

Libra

Leo

(July 23-Aug. 22): In my astrological opinion, you need and deserve big doses of fun, play, pleasure, and love. Amusement and enchantment, too. As well as excitement, hi-

(May 21-June 20): I’m not saying I would refuse to hire a Gemini person to housesit while I’m on vacation. You folks probably wouldn’t let my houseplants die, allow raccoons to sneak in and steal food, or leave piles of unwashed dishes in the sink. On the other hand, I’m not entirely confident you would take impeccable care of my home in every little way. But wait! Everything I just said does not apply to you now. My analysis of the omens suggests you will have a high aptitude for the domestic arts in the coming weeks. You will

@ McGuffey Art Center Tuesdays, 6:30-9:00 pm 8 Weeks, Starting Jan. 21st johnahancock.com 434-939-7445

(July 23-Aug. 22): Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart had an older sister, born under the sign of Leo. Her nickname was Nannerl. During their childhoods, she was as much a musical prodigy as he. Supervised by their father, they toured Europe performing together, playing harpsichord and piano. Nannerl periodically got top billing, and some critics regarded her as the superior talent. But misfortune struck when her parents decided it was unseemly for her, as a female, to continue her development as a genius. She was forcibly retired so she could learn the arts of housekeeping and prepare for marriage and children. Your assignment in the coming months, Leo, is to rebel against any influence that tempts you to tamp down your gifts and specialties. Assert your sovereignty. Identify what you do best, and do it more and better than you ever have before.

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Libran songwriter and producer Kevin MacLeod has composed over 2,000 pieces of music—and given all of them away for free. That’s why his work is so widespread. It has been featured in thousands of films and millions of YouTube videos. His composition “Monkeys Spinning Monkeys” has been played on TikTok over 31 billion times. (P.S.: He has plenty of money, in part because so many appreciative people give him free-will donations through his Patreon page.) I propose we make him your inspirational role model in the coming weeks and months, Libra. How could you parlay your generosity and gifts into huge benefits for yourself?

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

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

@ McGuffey Art Center Saturdays, 1:30-4:00 pm 6 Weeks, Starting Jan. 25th johnahancock.com 434-939-7445

WNRN Present CURTIS SALGADO

CLASSIFIEDS

VIRGINIA:

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR ALBEMARLE COUNTY

IN RE: ESTATE OF J. LEONARD HARTMAN, DECEASED ESTATE COURT FILE NUMBER: 2022-101

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE AGAINST DISTRIBUTION

It appearing to the Court that the report of the accounts of P. Marshall Yoder, Executor of the Estate of J. Leonard Hartman, Deceased, and the report of the debts and demands against the Estate, have both been filed in the Clerk’s Office, and that six months have elapsed since the qualification of the personal representative, and upon motion of the Executor,

IT IS ORDERED that the creditors of and all others interested in, the Estate do show cause, if any they can, on the 6th day of December, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. before this Court at its courtroom against the payment and delivery of the Estate to the beneficiaries, which distribution shall not occur prior to the expiration of one year from the date of qualification of the personal representative, without requiring refunding bonds.

FURTHER ORDERED that the foregoing portion of this order be published once a week for two successive weeks in the C-VILLE Weekly, in accordance with the provisions of § 64.2-556 of the Code of Virginia.

Cheryl V. Higgins

Judge, Circuit Court of Albemarle County, Virginia

I ASK FOR THIS:

P. Marshall Yoder, Esquire (VSB72304) of Wharton, Aldhizer & Weaver, P.L.C. 100 South Mason Street Harrisonburg, Virginia 22801

Telephone: (540) 438-5375

Facsimile: (540) 709-8552

Email: pmyoder@wawlaw.com

COUNSEL FOR PETITIONER

Date 10/30/2024

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

The object of the above-styled suit involves the heirs of Joseph Thomas Bowles and their interest in a parcel of property known as Parcel ID 260004000, 210 Lankford Avenue, in the City of Charlottesville, Virginia.

The legal description of the property is as follows: All that certain tract or parcel of land, being a strip 50 feet on Lankford Avenue in the City of Charlottesville, Virginia, and running back between parallel lines to the property formerly of Robert A. Potter and Bonnie Jewett on the south, the property hereby conveyed being on the south side of Lankford Avenue.

An affidavit having been filed that due diligence has been used by the Plaintiff to ascertain the identity and address of the all possible defendants, without success; that due diligence has been used without effect to ascertain the location of all known defendants; and that the number of defendants upon whom process has been served exceeds ten and it appears that such defendants represent like interests with the parties not served with process.

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

ENTER Claude V. Worrell, II 11/04/2024 Judge Date

I ASK FOR THIS:

Mary Ann Barnes, Virginia Bar No. 29779

Tucker Griffin Barnes 307 West Rio Road Charlottesville, Virginia 22901 (434) 951-0871 (434) 951-0870 fax MBarnes@tgblaw.com

THE HOTSEAT

Live and direct

No stranger to the stage, John Gibson worked at Live Arts for 18 years, from 1992 to 2010. During his run as executive and artistic director, Gibson introduced youth programs and new works, advocated for underrepresented playwrights, and launched pay-what-you-can performances, among other initiatives. Since moving to Atlanta in 2011, Gibson has worked as an organizer and leader, striving to build better and more resilient communities. As he returns to town to helm Live Arts’ production of The Wizard of Oz, we put the once-again director in the HotSeat.

Name: John Gibson

Age: 59

Pronouns: he/him

Hometown: Blowing Rock, North Carolina

Job(s): Writer, community organizer, once-upon-a-time theater director

What’s something about your job that people would be surprised to learn? Whether as a writer, an organizer, or a director, boredom and discomfort are your greatest allies. That microsecond where I get bored or annoyed obligates me to initiate change.

What is acting/performing to you? Theater was my daily practice from ages 8 to 44. I then set it down completely for 15 years—rarely even an audience member. I never felt burned out—I just wanted new ways to engage with the world. But curiosity got the best of me—could I still do it? Is it like riding a bicycle? The answer will be onstage from November 22 to December 15. Come judge for yourself.

Why is supporting performing arts education important? Lots of higherorder reasons, but here’s what I learned as a kid actor: Be nice, show up early,

help clean up, don’t touch other people’s stuff, learn your lines, and don’t share mascara (pink eye—that’s why). Also, you can’t know when, but someday clean underwear will really matter.

Most fulfilling aspect of directing for the stage: Failing better.

Favorite city to perform/ work in: Wherever those dear hearts and like minds gather. They know who they are.

Favorite venue to perform/ work in: The unlikely or undiscovered one. In Charlottesville, none could ever top the coal tower.

What are you currently watching? This seems (or is) insane, but for the last few months, I’ve watched the 1939 Wizard of Oz almost every day. Hundreds of times now.

What are you currently listening to? “Follow, follow, follow, follow!”

Go-to karaoke song: “My Way”

Proudest accomplishment: Loving whole-heartedly and faithfully, twice in a lifetime. And: Building a robust community, also twice.

Celebrity crush: I had a lot of them growing up—Donnie Osmond, Robbie Benson, Scott Baio—the dark-haired, big-eyed, square-jawed types. Reader, I married him.

Who’d play you in a movie? I used to get confused for John Malkovich every once in a while.

Who is your hero? I actually keep a list. Nearly a hundred names. Thinking a lot lately about Pauli Murray, Wes Anderson, Savitri Durkee, John Lewis, and Wendell Berry.

Best/worst part of living here: The best and the worst part of living here is that I don’t live here. It forces Charlottesville into a purely nostalgic modality, which is its long-time preference.

Favorite Charlottesville venue: Various basements, leaky warehouses, overgrown gardens, and fire traps, all long since condemned or torn down, replaced with things fancier, safer, and saner.

Favorite Charlottesville landmark/attraction: Steve Tharp and Sandy McAdams.

Bodo’s order: Everything bagel with liverwurst, onion, horseradish, and mustard.

Describe a perfect day: Thursday has always been my secret favorite.

If you could be reincarnated as a person or thing, what would you be? It’s all such a miracle, from every vantage point. Glad to take the roll of the dice.

If you had three wishes, what would you wish for?

The good knees, perfect eyesight, and 32-inch waist I had through my 20s, minus the arrogance.

Are there any superstitions you abide by? All of them—ladder avoiding, salt throwing, non-crack stepping. There are too many invisible forces to take any chances.

Most embarrassing moment: The amount of time I’ve spent on these interview questions is pretty far up there.

Best Halloween costume you’ve worn: When, as an 8-year-old, you get paid to dress up and scare people, you realize: Halloween is for civilians.

Do you have any pets? Projects, ideas, causes, opinions, grudges. Oh— and two dogs.

Subject that causes you to rant: So. Many. Please do not get me started on the devil’s bargain we made, trading incandescent light bulbs for survival of the species.

Favorite curse word? Or favorite word: I swear like a sailor. To choose a favorite curse word would be like choosing a favorite child. I love them all for different reasons. My most overused word is “tedious.”

Most used app on your phone: Questions about “your phone” are tedious.

Hottest take/most unpopular opinion: Everything is going to be okay.

What have you forgotten today? Almost all of yesterday.