Seatings begin at 4pm, last seating at 7pm. Enjoy our special a la carte Christmas Eve menu. Our regular kid's menu will also be available!
Reservations
Tis the Season for Gatherings at Restoration Crozet
Call 434-823-1841 or scan the QR codes to view menus and make reservations online. www.oldtrailclub.com/restoration
Tuesday, December 31st 7 to 9pm Tuesday, December 31st 7 to 9pm
Why wait until midnight? Start your evening in style with hors d'oeuvres and three select glasses of sparkling wine.
Reservations
READ LOCAL. WEAR LOCAL.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
V.36, No. 51
Charlottesville’s News & Arts
P.O. Box 119
Charlottesville, Virginia 22902
www.c-ville.com
Facebook: facebook.com/cville.weekly
X: @cville_weekly
Instagram: @cvilleweekly
EDITORIAL
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Caite Hamilton editor@c-ville.com
Our most-read news stor ies of 2024. 15 Shannon Library is a br ight spot on Grounds
Real Estate Weekly: Ups and downs in the local market.
CULTURE
36 Stages: Trans-Siberian Orchestra at the JPJ.
37 Small Bites: Openings and closings, plus dining out on New Year’s Eve.
Extra: Some of the year’s best shows.
Screens: The worst movies of 2024. 43 Pages: Six books to read in the new year.
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
DESIGN AND PRODUCTION
ART DIRECTOR
Max March max@c-ville.com
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Tracy Federico designer@c-ville.com
ADVERTISING
advertising@c-ville.com
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
Brian Hrozencik brian@c-ville.com
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Stephanie Vogtman
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Gabby Kirk gabby@c-ville.com
Sarah Smith sarah@c-ville.com
Candace Stevens candace@c-ville.com
PRODUCTION COORDINATOR
Faith Gibson ads@c-ville.com
BUSINESS
PUBLISHER
Anna Harrison anna@c-ville.com
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Debbie Miller debbie@c-ville.com
A/R SPECIALIST
Nanci Winter (434) 373-0429
CIRCULATION MANAGER
Billy Dempsey circulation@c-ville.com
C-VILLE HOLDINGS, LLC
Bill Chapman, Blair Kelly
C-VILLE is published Wednesdays.
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.
In, A MURDER ON FIFTH AND DICE AND THE RUIN OF FIFEVILLE, James shows how drugdealing and gang violence led to the condemnation, demolition, and gentrification of Fifeville. It is a Sequel to his IN THE STREETS OF VINEGAR HILL, 2007. (He is writing a play based upon this latest Book)
IN THE STREETS OF VINEGAR HILL, James reveals how fear and misunderstandings caused The Charlottesville City Council to condemn and Demolish a 20 Acre Tract (30 Black businesses and 600 residents) from the Downtown area from 1958-1964.
Local Author
William A. James, Sr.
Call or Write, William A. James, Sr. 434-985-8987 PO Box 6991, Charlottesville, VA 22906
Wjpublications@aol.com
December 18 –31, 2024 c-ville.com
BOOKS SOLD AT:
The University of Virginia Bookstore
400 Emmet Street, Charlottesville, VA 22904 (on UVA Grounds).
Hello, Charlottesville. Thanks for reading C-VILLE Weekly.
I just had an extremely fun Charlottesville week. On Tuesday, C-VILLE held its annual holiday party on the rooftop of The Doyle Hotel (we laughed, we hugged, we drank themed cocktails from acrylic mugs with moose antlers and let the newest member of the sales team talk us into doing shots). On Wednesday, I went to dinner at Tavola with my dad and then on to Live Arts for its entirely delightful staging of The Wizard of Oz (shout-out to my friend and former colleague Bill LeSueur, who was born to play the role of the man behind the curtain). I stopped by MarieBette this morning before heading into the office and am munching on a petite kouign-amann as I type this.
12.18.24
I’m feeling very grateful. And in this issue, where we’ve sprinkled lists throughout the paper to cover everything that happened in 2024, I have one last list of my own—a note of thanks to the wonderful people with whom I do this work.
Thank you to CM Turner, for your art expertise and your affected New England accent; to Catie Ratliff, our young news reporter who says things like “chill” and “hype” in place of “great,” but cranks out wellresearched and well-written news stories each week; to Tami Keaveny, whose creativity knows no bounds, for your perfect punny headlines; to Susan Sorensen, our longtime copy editor whose attention to detail is matched only by her curious and open heart; and to Max March, my dear friend, whose ability to pick the exact right typeface for a project on the first try will never cease to amaze me.
I look forward to working with them (and the rest of the lean, mean C-VILLE team—including our brilliant freelancers!) again in the new year, and I look forward to hearing more from you, reader. Talk soon.
Dogs of Virginia
“We’ve been blessed to have Forest in our lives for seven and a half years, and his impact has been life-changing for our entire family.
Before Forest, Sam’s autism made everyday tasks challenging. Forest has provided the stability, comfort, and companionship Sam needed to thrive, helping him navigate the world with more confidence and independence”.
“The most important thing for [the city] is that that building be put to some use, not continue to sit there as the steel-and-concrete hulk that it is.”
—City
Councilor Lloyd Snook in a Daily Progress article about the potential sale of the former Landmark Hotel property
NEWS IN BRIEF
For the win(s)
Four University of Virginia swimmers set world records at the World Aquatics Swimming Championships in Budapest on December 12. Current Hoo and Olympic medalist Gretchen Walsh broke her own record in the 100-meter individual medley, posting a time of 55.71 during the semifinal. Her sister, Alex Walsh, joined alum Paige Madden and incoming Cavalier Katie Grimes on the 4x200meter freestyle relay, breaking another world record during the final event of the day.
Giving season
In more UVA athletics news, the Virginia women’s basketball team received the largest gift in the program’s history, and the secondlargest gift to any UVA women’s team ever. The “transformational” donation comes from alum Alexis Ohanian, general partner and founder of early-stage venture capital firm Seven Seven Six. Ohanian is also the co-founder and former executive chairman of Reddit, a popular social media site, and is married to tennis legend Serena Williams.
Hope to help
Inmates at the Albemarle-Charlottesville Regional Jail will receive “hope packs” from Christ Community Church this holiday season as part of an initiative by Richmond-based organization Good News Global. Charlottesville is one of 30 jurisdictions nationwide participating in the program, according to a December 10 release. Hope packs are given to male, female, and juvenile inmates, and include personalized gifts and necessities.
New leader
On January 1, Owen Brennan, interim executive director of The Haven, will officially become the organization’s permanent executive director.
“Owen’s knowledge of The Haven and the local Continuum of Care, his calm presence in accompaniment of people in crisis, and his deep understanding of the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness are the right combination of skills to lead The Haven into the future,” said Rabia Povich, chair of the board, in a December 10 press release.
Since opening in 2010, The Haven has been a resource for community members experiencing homelessness and poverty.
Brennan has worked for the organization in various roles for more than a decade, most recently as operations director for the nonprofit. He is currently listed as both the executive and operations director on The Haven’s website, and has an extensive background in collaborating with other major players working to address housing insecurity in the Charlottesville area.
The Haven is one of many local nonprofits expected to work with city leaders and the Salvation Army on the creation of a year-round, low-barrier shelter in the city. While The Haven has a low-barrier day shelter, Charlottesville does not currently have a low-barrier, overnight shelter available year-round.
15
Powering down
Albemarle County Public Schools will kick off 2025 with a new personal communication device policy, prompted by an August executive order from Gov. Glenn Youngkin.
Starting January 7, students must store phones and similar devices in a locker, backpack, or designated area for the duration of the school day. Exceptions for individualized education plans, 504 plans, and special circumstances will be allowed.
High school students will be able to use devices during non-instructional time for now, but use during lunch and
passing periods will be phased out in August 2025. Middle schoolers will continue to operate under current rules, prohibiting phones for the entire school day.
“This initiative supports our goal of helping students stay engaged and achieve academic success,” said Judy Le, chair of the Albemarle County School Board, in a December 10 press release. “Creating device-free classrooms allows students and staff to focus on meaningful learning experiences.”
Procedures for family and staff communication during emergencies will also be updated as part of the new policy.
Owen Brennan was recently named executive director of The Haven. He’s been the nonprofit’s interim leader since Stephen Hitchcock left in July.
pvcc.edu/spring-momentum
The year that was
A look back at our most-read news stories of 2024
By Catie Ratliff reporter@c-ville.com
With this issue, C-VILLE wraps up its 2024 news coverage. What follows is a glimpse at our top news stories of the year, according to Google Analytics.
Big changes in the works at Dairy Market
September 4 A popular topic for C-VILLE readers (it made our top 10 list in 2023, too), changes at Dairy Market was our mostviewed news story of 2024. Specifically, the mass exodus of restaurants from the food hall. While some of the market’s future plans have come to fruition (including the muchanticipated free parking), more new vendors are expected in the coming months.
Updates on the construction and detours at Hydraulic Road and Route 29
July 17 Construction stories were top of mind for many this year, with more than 2,700 viewers checking our online update of the Virginia Department of Transportation’s work on Hydraulic Road and Route 29. VDOT Project Manager Will Stowe recently told us he does not have data yet, but notes anecdotally, “We still occasionally see some confusion from drivers at the [Hydraulic Road] roundabout, but drivers are getting the hang of it.”
Tim Kaine and Hung Cao talk policy and priorities
October 30 Ahead of Election Day, C-VILLE swapped emails with longtime Virginia Sen. Tim Kaine and challenger Hung Cao about their respective platforms. Kaine won his third U.S. Senate term by a margin of 8.2 percent. In a weird update, the Associated Press shows only 96 percent of precincts reporting results at the time of this writing (December 12).
UVA frat expelled, others suspended
May 1 Written by C-VILLE contributor Matt Dhillon, this story recapped the (then) latest on fraternities in hot water following a hazing investigation. Since the expulsion of Pi Kappa Alpha in April, two more fraternities have had their fraternal charters terminated: Kappa Sigma and Theta Chi. Sigma Alpha Mu’s suspension is set to expire on January 5, just before the start of rush.
Quirk Hotel to undergo rebrand following $24 million sale
May 8 The former Quirk Hotel, now called The Doyle, was rebranded in the wake of its sale in April. Since our original coverage, new owner Blue Suede Hospitality Group has expanded its portfolio to eight properties—doubling its locations after purchasing the Charlottesville hotel.
A seat on the Albemarle County School Board is up for grabs in upcoming special election
September 25 In other election news, many C-VILLE readers checked out our coverage of the special election for the Rio seat on the Albemarle County School Board. Though former-appointee Chuck Pace won, he’ll be campaigning again soon—the same seat will return to the ballot as regularly scheduled in November 2025.
VDOT removes left-turn lanes from Hydraulic Road onto Route 29
August 23 Always interested in construction news, readers logged on for our August update on the removal of left-turn lanes at the busy intersection of Hydraulic and 29. No formal data about improved traffic flow has been released, but Stowe told C-VILLE that
At press time, more than 840,000 visits were made to c-ville.com, with over 4,230 views of our September story on closings at Dairy Market, including Jonathan Wright's 434th Street.
VDOT has “observed better throughput and reduced travel times on all approaches … due to additional green time.” He also shared that the installation of remaining pedestrian signals at the crossing is almost complete, with work slated to wrap up in late December or early January. Construction of a pedestrian bridge in the same area will continue into fall 2026.
Changes at Ix Art Park
February 7 Early this year, Dhillon also took a look at changes in the works at IX Art Park. Since his dive into the skeleton crew running the park, IX has undergone a variety of updates (including the stylistic change of its name from Ix to IX).
UVA withholds degrees from students arrested at encampment
June 18 The University of Virginia made headlines for its reaction to protesters when it withheld degrees from some graduating students arrested at the pro-Palestine encampment. All of the withheld degrees have now been conferred and backdated, but not without public pressure and stress for im-
pacted students. Despite continued organizing by pro-Palestine student groups, UVA has not met demands for divestment or disclosure.
House of Delegates committee advances resolutions calling for constitutional amendments
November 20 A late entry to this list, C-VILLE’s review of three potential state constitutional amendments, and the amendment process, was popular with readers in recent weeks. Even if the legislature passes the suggested amendments during its 30-day session starting on January 8, the earliest any of the items could make it on the ballot is November 2026.
Sentara must comply with DOJ demands
March 27 Returning to a story she’s been following for years, former C-VILLE news editor Lisa Provence highlighted recent discoveries in the Department of Justice investigation into Sentara Health. Updates have been scarce since March, but the investigation into Sentara’s insurance rate hikes is ongoing.
TRISTAN WILLIAMS
Revived and revisited Shannon Library lives up to the hype
By Merrill Hart
After a nearly four-year closure for renovations, Shannon Library has re-established itself as the University of Virginia’s main study spot. This December marks a full academic year since five floors of expanded seating and a grilled cheese café joined historic reading rooms and the checkered entrance hall students first crossed back in 1938.
UVA Library employees say community use of the space has held steady over the year, with about 635,000 visitors recorded since March. That’s more than twice the foot traffic that neighboring Clemons Library saw in the same time period.
Few, if any, current UVA undergraduates had the chance to explore the main library, formerly known as Alderman, before it closed its doors in 2020. Elyse Girard, executive director of communications and user experience for university libraries, describes Alderman as “kind of a sad space to go into”—with much fewer windows than it has now.
“I just love how much light is in the building and how open and inviting it is [now],” Girard says. “I was only at the library a couple months before it closed, and it was just dark and dingy and hard to navigate.”
Public Services Manager Will Wyatt, who started working at UVA libraries as an undergraduate in 2014, agreed the old library felt dark. Standing at 6-feet, 4-inches, he would often brush against low ceilings during visits to the library’s pre-renovation cramped stacks.
But certain nooks always felt like home. When Wyatt’s family came to Charlottesville for his 2017 graduation, he proudly walked them through Alderman’s walnut-paneled McGregor Room, known affectionately as the “Harry Potter Room.” Today, the space
features the same vintage feel, updated with new windows and shelving.
“That’s an affectionate place in my heart,” says Wyatt. “That’s still a room that gets a lot of gasps from people.”
The mix of old and new echoes creative efforts to reframe resources for an increasingly digital era. After a lengthy moving process, the library now houses 1.2 million books—roughly 12 miles worth of shelf space. Online platforms like Virgo have seen increased usage, according to Girard, and staff continue monitoring the evolving use of space and services. Instead of visiting only to check out books, students often come to Shannon to study together, Wyatt observed.
“I do feel that in this iteration of the building, there are more spaces that are conducive to collaboration and teamwork, and I see them being used for that quite frequently,” Wyatt says.
Shannon also houses the Scholars’ Lab Makerspace, an interactive facility on the third floor that connects users with electronics, crafting, laser-cutting and 3D-printing. Makerspace manager Ammon Shepherd says the move from Clemons to Shannon has increased interest in user-led projects, which range from surgeons printing heart models to students designing elaborate Halloween costumes. The Makerspace plans to host 40 community events next semester.
With all the buzz, one question still lingers for some Shannon enthusiasts: Where is talking allowed? Unlike Clemons, where each floor requires a different decibel level, Shannon opened with no rules.
While the library has not enforced noise norms because staff are still figuring out how each space is being used, Wyatt says certain rooms already have unspoken conventions.
“The McGregor Room has always been, you know, you’re gonna get a death glare if you step too hard in there,” he says.
Experience theMagic!
The beauty of light and the whimsy of nature intertwine harmoniously at Virginia’s premier holiday light show at Boar’s Head Resort. Experience the nature of our rolling landscape during this illuminated lakeside stroll as an extraordinary palette of colors blanket the natural surroundings.
SELECT NIGHTS NOV. 22, 2024 – JAN. 4, 2025
We have:
•More inventory now than we ever have! And we have in store and online gift cards!
•Items that are hard/impossible to find in other stores from Filson, Tom Beckbe, Simms, Grundens, NIVIS and others!
•Hand selected offerings from clothing and outerwear to bags & luggage, hats, speakers and accessories for your holiday gifts!
We will match or beat any price
Unique Preparations of Classic Italian & Southern Food with Unmatched Hospitality
Proudly including Vegetarian, Vegan & Gluten-Free Selections
Born In Charlottesville, Raised in the Valley Since March 2024
Tuesday - Thursday, 4:30-9:00, Friday & Saturday 4:30-9:30 Saturday & Sunday Brunch 11:00-2:00 Live Jazz Every Thursday, 6:30-8:30
Annie Gould Gallery
REAL ESTATE WEEKLY
Adding up
Local land use in 2024, by the numbers
By Sean Tubbs
There has not been an uneventful year in Charlottesville real estate for a long time, and no amount of column inches can capture all that happened in 2024. Here’s one way to take the pulse of this year.
0: The number of places there will be to live at 218 W. Market St. The developer opted to build a hotel.
184 feet: The height of a structure developer Jeffrey Levien seeks to build on the Downtown Mall where Violet Crown Theater currently sits.
1: The number of new City Council members, as Natalie Oschrin began serving a four-year term in January.
2: The number of names for an 80-unit Seminole Trail housing project that finally broke ground this year after construction pricing caused delays. What started this year as Premier Circle ended as Vista29. The principal nonprofit involved also changed its name from Virginia Supportive Housing to Support Works Virginia.
11: The number of “Major Development Plans” filed with the City of Charlottesville after a new zoning code went into effect in late February, though one is actually a duplicate. Two of these have been approved, one of which was for the BEACON commercial kitchen project at 221 Carlton Rd., and the other was for a deck expansion at ABC Preschool.
6: The number of units that will be built at 303 Alderman Rd., currently a singlefamily home slated for demolition. City staff have to sign off on a major development plan for this by-right development and none of the units are required to be income-restricted.
12: One major plan for undeveloped land on Hillcrest Road calls for 12 units to be constructed along the U.S. 250 Bypass. None are required to be affordable.
24: Another major plan seeks to build 24 units at 2030 Barracks Rd., directly to the east of the Meadowbrook Shopping Center. Half of these would be income restricted.
51: The number of residential properties in Charlottesville that sold for more than $1 million by the first week of December.
$2,575,000: The highest price paid in the City of Charlottesville in 2024 for a single-family home at 1824 Winston Rd. on October 29.
$8.7 million: Charlottesville City Council agreed to a five-year, $8.7 million loan to Habitat for Humanity and the Piedmont Housing Alliance to purchase the Carlton Mobile Home Park for eventual redevelopment. The terms of the agreement prohibit construction until mid-2027, though planning can get started.
$10.5 million: The University of Virginia Foundation purchased three commercial buildings on Arlington Boulevard for this price, possibly for a future road connection between Copeley Road and Millmont Street.
$24 million: The amount paid by Blue Suede Charlottesville LLC to buy the Quirk Hotel on West Main Street. The relatively new building is now known as The Doyle Hotel.
5 percent: The average assessment increase for all property in the City of Charlottesville. It’s a lower figure than 12.33 percent in 2023 and 10.77 percent in 2022. The higher assessments means more tax revenue. City Council intends to spend any surplus.
4.07 percent: Albemarle County’s average assessment also went up by a smaller amount in 2024 than in previous years.
If the project proceeds, the hotel at 218 W. Market St. would replace a shopping center that includes The Artful Lodger, The Livery Stable, and several other businesses.
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 a fenced, flat backyard. Unique floor plan includes a first floor primary suite with a walk-in closet; a half bath and a 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. Property includes a large storage shed. Located near Biscuit Run State Park $499,000
CALL SHARON
Over 25 years of Real Estate experience. email: callsharon.today@yahoo.com cell: 434.981.7200
Jim Faulconer
434.981.0076 jfaulconer@mcleanfaulconer.com
COBHAM PARK
$8,500,000 | Keswick, VA Court Nexsen, Rep. Purchaser
WILLOWFIELDS FARM
$4,900,000 | North Garden, VA Court Nexsen, Rep. Seller
Mark Mascotte, Rep. Purchaser
FARMINGTON
Court Nexsen
646.660.0700 court@mcleanfaulconer.com
FARMINGTON
$5,795,000 | Charlottesville, VA
Tim Michel, Rep. Seller Court Nexsen, Rep. Purchaser
ARABELLE FARM
$4,275,000 | Keswick, VA
Charlotte Dammann, Rep. Purchaser
SUNNYSIDE FARM
$3,700,000 | Charlottesville, VA
Will Carr, Rep. Seller Charlotte Dammann, Rep. Purchaser
FARMINGTON
$4,900,000 | Charlottesville, VA Court Nexsen, Rep. Purchaser
NORTHWOODS
$4,275,000 | Charlottesville, VA Court Nexsen, Rep. Seller
SWANNANOA COUNTRY CLUB
$4,200,000 | Charlottesville, VA Court Nexsen, Rep. Seller CREOCH
LAFAYETTE
$3,150,000 | Keswick, VA Court Nexsen, Rep. Seller
QUINTA DAS TORRES FARM
$2,950,000 | Charlottesville, VA
Jim & Will Faulconer, Rep. Seller
$3,500,000 | Afton, VA
Tim Michel, Rep. Seller
Jim Faulconer, Rep. Purchaser
$2,900,000 | Charlottesville, VA
Katherine Leddington, Rep. Purchaser
Jim Faulconer 434.981.0076 jfaulconer@mcleanfaulconer.com
MEADOWBROOK HILLS
$2,500,000 | Charlottesville, VA
Charlotte Dammann, Rep. Seller
GLENMORE
$1,875,000 | Keswick, VA
Mark Mascotte,Rep. Seller
LENOX HILL RD
$1,675,000 | Charlottesville, VA
Jim Faulconer, Rep. Seller
Will Faulconer, Rep. Purchaser
HOLKHAM DR
$1,160,000 | Charlottesville, VA
Jeremy Fields, Rep. Purchaser
OWL’S ROOST
$2,476,000 | Charlottesville, VA
Jim & Will Faulconer, Rep. Seller
GLENMORE
$1,800,000 | Keswick, VA
Charlotte Dammann, Rep. Purchaser
VICTORIA DR
$1,595,000 | Staunton, VA Court Nexsen, Rep. Seller
$1,725,000 | Keswick, VA Court Nexsen, Rep. Purchaser
SAINT JOHN RD
$1,355,000 | Gordonsville, VA
Jim & Will Faulconer, Rep. Purchaser
WOODLANDS RD
$1,065,000 | Charlottesville, VA
Jim & Will Faulconer, Rep. Seller
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SERENITY RIDGE RETREAT CENTER
Ancient Teachings for Modern Times
Join us in the serene foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and in Charlottesville this December and January!
DECEMBER 27—29 & DECEMBER 27—JANUARY 4
Three or eight day Dzogchen meditation retreat, with Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche
JANUARY 5—11
Buddhist breathwork retreat, with Geshe Yungdrung Gyatso
JANUARY 5—11
Personal practice retreat, from one to seven days
JANUARY 9
Dharma talk and guided meditation with Geshe Yungdrung Gyatso at the Jefferson Library, downtown Charlottesville
Learn More and Register: SERENITYRIDGEVA.ORG
Serenity Ridge Retreat Center, Shipman, VA
Some advice on the art of gift giving...
To view our collections from Gabriel, Sylvie, Romance and more, visit the Galleries page at: andrewmintonjewelers.com
Sale Ends: Tuesday, December 24 What gift will really stand out this holiday season, and be treasured for years to come? A gift of fine jewelry from Andrew Minton Jewelers.
andrewmintonjewelers.com
Seminole Square Shopping Center 434-979-7672
Celebrate the birth of Christ with us this Christmas at St. Paul’s, Ivy.
Christmas Eve, Tuesday, December 24
3:00 p.m. Family Worship with Children’s Homily (childcare is available)
5:30 p.m. Festive Choral Worship (childcare is available)
10:00 p.m. Candlelight Choral Worship (Please note: incense will be used during this service.)
Christmas Day, Wednesday, December 25
10:30 a.m. Traditional Worship
We invite you to join us in January when our Sunday schedule resumes, including our speaker series, The Rector’s Forum , at 9:15 a.m., and Contemplative Evening Prayer at 5:30 p.m. For details, please visit us online at stpaulsivy.org.
Scan the QR code to learn more about Advent and Christmas at St. Paul’s, Ivy. stpaulsivy.org
Gettin’ Listy with it
We don’t know about you, but we love a list. Quick to read, easy to digest—what’s not to like?—they’re the perfect way to wrap up a long, eventful year of news, arts, and food coverage. Behold, all the naughty and nice things about 2024.
BY CAITE HAMILTON, TAMI KEAVENY, CATIE RATLIFF, AND SUSAN SORENSEN
Ten headlines we
were surprised to see
From January 1 onward, 2024 was a newsworthy year everywhere. And Charlottesville was no exception, making local and national news headlines. Here are 10 that surprised us this year.
March 20: Wildfire destroys multiple buildings at Twin Oaks
When a wildfire devastated two structures at Twin Oaks, including a processing and storage facility, the future of the intentional community was uncertain. Twin Oaks is still recovering nine months later, but it’s moving forward. The community closed its signature hammock business as a result of the fire, and is weighing what business it wants to pursue next.
April 29: Ukrop family sells Charlottesville Quirk Hotel
Four years after it opened, the Quirk Hotel Charlottesville was bought by Blue Suede Hospitality Group on April 29. The Ukrop family sold the four-story, West Main Street building for $24 million, $20 million more than they paid for the property in 2017. Renamed The Doyle Hotel, the spot retains many elements of the Quirk, including the popular rooftop bar.
May 4: UVA calls in state police to break up encampment, arrest students
Leaders at the University of Virginia called in Virginia State Police to break up a pro-Palestine encampment after days of peaceful demonstrations. More than two dozen people were arrested. Prosecutors and university officials eventually dropped all charges and no-trespass orders after months of public pressure.
May 28: Mel Walker dies at 71
Mel Walker, Charlottesville icon and owner of Mel’s Cafe, died on May 28 at the age of 71. Opened in 1989, the popular West Main Street eatery was not only a cherished soul-food restaurant, but a gathering place for Charlottesville’s Black community before it closed its doors permanently in July.
58 reasons why you should’ve bought your tickets early in 2024
June 7: Local Food Hub announces imminent closure
Following the surprise announcement of its closure in early June, Local Food Hub ended its Fresh Farmacy program on July 15. The program offered clients a “prescription” for fresh produce and distributed more than 40,000 pounds of local produce in 2023. While fellow local nonprofit Cultivate Charlottesville offers fresh produce through community gardens, that organization is at risk of also closing if it does not raise enough funds by April 2025.
September 5: UVA- Health physicians and publishprofessors letter of no confidence
A group of physicians at the University of Virginia released an open letter on September 5 calling for the removal of UVA Health CEO Craig Kent and School of Medicine Dean Melina Kibbe. Allegations in the original letter included the creation of a toxic work environment and unsafe patient practices. In October, a group of surgeons also came forward, alleging that UVA has pressured providers to fraudulently raise bills.
September 21: Umma’s closes after two years
Korean- and Japanese-American fusion restaurant Umma’s closed its doors after hosting its last dinner service on September 21. A popular space for the local LGBTQ+ community, Umma’s shut down not due to a lack of support, but because its owners moved out of town.
October 17: Tony Bennett immediateannouncesretirement
Basketball legend Tony Bennett announced his retirement as head coach of the University of Virginia men’s team on October 17, just 20 days before the Hoos’ first game. Bennett’s exit, which came months after he signed a contract extension, shocked and saddened fans. Interim Head Coach Ron Sanchez, an asso- ciate head coach under Bennett, is off to a shaky start, with preseason polls predicting the team will finish fifth in the ACC.
October 21: City Manager and Salvation Army announce low-barrier shelter plans
City Manager Sam Sanders presented Charlottesville City Council with plans and funding options for converting the Salvation Army’s thrift store on Cherry Avenue into a year-round, low-barrier shelter. The creation of such a shelter has been a longtime priority for local leaders, but became more urgent following the erection of tents in Market Street Park last fall. City Council is expected to allocate funding for the project at its last meeting of the year.
November 27: Blue Moon Diner closes its
doors
Beloved diner/gathering place/music venue Blue Moon Diner served its last stenciled pancake in late November, after nearly 20 years under the stewardship of Laura Galgano and Rice Hall. The diner, which originally opened in 1979 and was previously owned by Mark Hahn of Harvest Moon Catering, was a Charlottesville institution but, as Galgano wrote on the restaurant’s Facebook page, “It’s time for new adventures!”—CR
TTriomphe!
10 Hoos who made us proud in Paris
here was a lot to like about the Paris Olympics and Paralympics. The games were the most ecologically sustainable of the modern era. Every medal contained a piece of metal from the Eiffel Tower. The logo for Paris 2024 featured a lowercase ‘i’ to symbolize inclusivity and individuality. For local fans, however, one of the best things was the success of former, current, and future University of Virginia athletes.
When the Olympics and Paralympics concluded on September 8, UVA-affiliated athletes (and one Wahoo-to-be) had earned 16 medals—seven gold, seven silver, and two bronze. A dozen of those medals were won in the swimming pool, with Kate Douglass and Gretchen Walsh returning home with eight of them. (UVA Swimming & Diving Head Coach Todd DeSorbo was Team USA’s women’s swimming coach, and 25 percent of the female swimmers who competed for the United States were current or former Hoos.) In addition to Douglass and Walsh, Emma Weber seized gold at her first Olympics, while Paige Madden earned silver and bronze. Then there was the silver medal awarded to Western Albemarle High School’s Thomas Heilman, a future Hoo who, at 17 years old, was the youngest male swimmer to qualify for the Olympics since Michael Phelps in 2000.
On the soccer pitch, former Cavalier standout Emily Sonnett competed on the United States’ women’s team that defeated Brazil to capture a record fifth Olympic gold medal. And during the Paralympics, UVA rower Skylar Dahl was part of the U.S. PR3 mixed four with coxswain that claimed silver.
But not all UVA athletes were on Team USA. Rower Heidi Long was on Great Britain’s women’s eight team that won bronze, and Pien Dicke helped the Netherlands win gold in field hockey.
Four times traffic held us up
1. The first of a few summer efforts to eliminate congestion in high-traffic areas, a roundabout at the intersection of Hydraulic Road and Hillsdale Drive wrapped up in August after a month under construction. At the peak of the work, the Virginia Department of Transportation reported that roughly 35,000 vehicles per day were being detoured from Hydraulic Road to avoid the construction.
2. Left turns are so 2023, said the Virginia Department of Transportation in August as it eliminated left-turn lanes from Hydraulic Road onto Route 29. Drivers were encouraged to take a cir-
It was later reported that if the University of Virginia had been its own country in the 2024 summer games, it would have finished with the 16th-most medals, just behind Spain. To that, we say: Wahoowa!—SS
cuitous route through nearby shopping center parking lots, all in the name of “improving traffic flow” (but to hell with your morning commute).
3. Construction began on a pedestrian bridge in the—you guessed it—Hydraulic corridor, just north of Zan Road in September. Part of a $30 million project to improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety in that area, the project will continue until fall 2025.
4. A two-decade-long process to rehab the Belmont Bridge ended in late June to mixed reviews, garnering criticism for its clunky medians, unfinished landscaping, and, as one commenter on Reddit put it, “I’m most disappointed that they created this graffiti paradise. Wish we could have an art competition to cover all that gray.”—CH
STEPHEN BARLING
UVA ATHLETICS COMMUNICATIONS
Kate Douglass won two gold and two silver medals at the 2024 Olympic Games.
The best words
We’re proud of every cover story we print on Wednesday, but some resonate with us more than others. Here’s a look at C-VILLE staffers’ favorite features of the year.
Editor in Chief
Caite Hamilton
Her pick: Timeless treasure (June 12)
“As I wrote in my letter that week, this cover story read more like an excerpt from a memoir than the type of feature we normally run, but Michael Moriarty’s piece on finding his dad’s vintage Timex struck a chord with me. Loss is a universal experience, and I hoped Mike’s piece—which so deftly navigated the complexities of grief— would strike a chord with readers as well.”
Culture Editor Tami
Keaveny
Her pick: Wild observations (January 10)
“In 2024 we found three ways to champion the eloquent work of writer and poet Erika Howsare. In a feature on her latest book, The Age of Deer, Howsare shared her research process, telling writer Sarah Lawson, ‘I felt the aching gladness of being alive and among other living things.’
A frequent contributor to C-VILLE Weekly, Howsare wrote our May 22 cover story about the thriving arts scene in the Shenandoah Valley, and her December 4 feature looked at environmental concerns around light pollution.”
News Reporter
Catie Ratliff
Her pick: Educational opportunities (May 1)
“As a news reporter, my job often involves sorting through documents, attending local government meetings, and conducting phone interviews. Working on this cover story was both a breath of fresh air and enlightening, and it provided readers a look into Charlottesville’s alternative-education learning centers and the students enrolled in them. Lugo-McGinness Academy and Knight School both shine in their fostering of community, and they build environments where students feel safe and can learn effectively.”
Editorial Assistant
CM Turner
His pick: Now playing (August 21)
“Connecting artists and audiences is one of the most fulfilling aspects of what we do in the C-VILLE Weekly Culture section. When we focused our lens on a new generation of musicmakers shaping Charlottesville’s sonic scene earlier this year, we provided a picture of the varied and dynamic acts sharing their sounds on stages around town. From punk rock to hip-hop, Americana to mainstream, local listeners have a lot to choose from.”
Copy Editor
Susan Sorensen
Her pick: Role call (October 30)
“I love fall. And I love movies. So come late October, when the leaves are changing and the Virginia Film Festival is rolling, Charlottesville is my happy place. Which is why my favorite 2024 cover story was our guide to the 37th film fest. This year, we focused on folks working behind the scenes, including directors, producers (thanks for stopping by, Matthew Modine!), writers, and production designers, to name a few. Not only was it illuminating reading, but the package of stories made me a wiser, more appreciative moviegoer.”
Ch-ch-ch-chchanges
Three additions to C-VILLE in 2024
C-VILLE celebrated its 35th birthday in September of 2024 and, with it, added some new merch, an arts newsletter, and a donor campaign.
Merchandise: T-shirts! Tote bags!
Bumper stickers! Our new line of merch, launched in September, celebrates C-VILLE past and present. Head to c-ville.com and click “Shop” to wear your love for your local paper on your sleeve (or your coffee mug).
To-do List: Also in September, we started sending out a weekly newsletter from the Culture section. Sign up for it (and our Friday morning one, too) at c-ville.com.
Save the Free Word: Thanks to more than 100 generous readers, our new donor campaign has amassed nearly $10k, a healthy sum that’s helped us add a News Editor to our staff (look for his byline in January).
Speakingtwo more changes coming in 2025:
In January, you’ll notice C-VILLE has a new look—online and in print. We’ve been working hard to usher the weekly into the 21st century (better late than never?) and into our next 35 years.—CH
Looking
Our Art Director Max March picks his favorite shots of the year
good
There's something about great show photography that makes you feel like you're there in the moment. Charlottesville really punches above its weight when it comes to the caliber of touring musicians who put on terrific shows here, but it's particularly special when you get to feature a show from some local talent, like up-and-comers Palmyra, in this shot by Tristan Williams
Being on the ground during major news events is so important, and for my money there isn't anyone who does it like Eze Amos. He's particularly good at finding quiet moments amidst the chaos, and this photo—taken right before Virginia State Police broke up the UVA encampment protesting the war in Gaza—resonated with me.
100 Water Street
100 Water Street
November 30 –
November 30 – December 21 Saturdays, 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
December 21
Saturdays, 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
The Holiday Market hosts over 100 unique, local vendors that offer a wide range of arts, crafts, and specialty foods. ONE HOUR OF FREE PARKING at the Water Street parking garage.
The Holiday Market hosts over 100 unique, local vendors that offer a wide range of arts, crafts, and specialty foods.
Phone: (434) 970-3371
ONE HOUR OF FREE PARKING at the Water Street parking garage.
Phone: (434) 970-3371
Email: citymarket@charlottesville.gov
Online: charlottesville.gov/citymarket
Email: citymarket@charlottesville.gov
Online: charlottesville.gov/citymarket
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
• Transportation and errands
• Meal preparation
• Medication reminders
• Housework and laundry
PERSONAL CARE SERVICES
• Bathing and personal hygiene
• Toileting and incontinence support
• Dressing and grooming
• Assisting with
•Assistance with eating
•
•
Finding Joy Through the Holidays
December is almost over and the holidays are in full swing. We put a lot of pressure on ourselves to stay happy and have a good time during the holidays; after all, it is the season of being merry and bright. It isn’t always that easy, however. For some, the holidays act as a reminder of how much they have lost and how lonely they are.
“We do see an increase in depression during this time of year for a variety of reasons,” says geriatrician Dr. Renee Abueg in a recent UCI Health article. “Combined with the stresses of daily life, the holidays and the expectations around them add pressure on our time, finances and even our health.”
Although the holiday may not look as it once did, with a few small lifestyle adjustments the season can still be meaningful. The first thing to remember is the holiday doesn’t need to be perfect. It’s okay if your holidays look different from past years or if traditions have changed. Look at small changes you can make to make the holidays less overwhelming for you — and if you do notice yourself getting overwhelmed give yourself a minute to step back and breathe. Allow yourself grace to feel whatever emotions the holidays bring up, but don’t let them take over your day.
Hydration and proper nutrition are incredibly important as the days get shorter. Make sure to drink water throughout the day and to nourish your body, vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthy fats, and protein are essential parts of a balanced diet and
should not be forgotten during the holidays. Additionally, staying active should still be a priority even when it is cold outside. Try moving your exercises inside when possible and make sure to properly bundle up when outdoors.
The holidays don’t have to be a lonely time. Focus on staying connected with others by seeing friends, talking to family, and getting out of the house. Try a new hobby, work at the library, or visit your local JABA Community Center for social engagement and the chance to try new activities. Finally, remember the holidays are about giving back. Helping others is a great way to boost your mood. Many nonprofits and religious organizations have a huge demand for volunteers during the holidays, reach out to them and see how you can help. You could also assist a friend with holiday prep, help your neighbor bring in the additional holiday mail, or donate canned food to your local food pantry. No matter how big or small the task you will make a huge difference in multiple lives. While the holidays can bring about feelings of joy and togetherness, it can also be a challenging time for many. It is important to address these feelings, both the good and the bad, rather than trying to ignore them. By making small changes to our expectations and routines, staying connected with others, maintaining healthy habits and self-care, and giving back to the community we can create a meaningful holiday experience.
Ty Mynes is a writer and marketing specialist at JABA.
CULTURE
TUESDAY 12/31
BRING THE ’PAGNE
SATURDAY 12/21–SUNDAY 12/22
Looking to dance away 2024 and usher in the new year with funky fun? Disco Risqué is shakin’ up the Lobby Bar on NYE at the newly rechristened Doyle Hotel. This five-piece dance-party band brings a distinct brand of rock ‘n’ roll defined by its high-energy performers. Searing guitar solos and a driving rhythm section are complemented by keys and horns that make you want to move. Admission includes hors d’oeuvres and a sparkling toast at midnight, alongside cash bars and Champagne bottle service. $50–60, 9pm. The Doyle Hotel, 499 W. Main St. thedoylehotel.com
FRIDAY 12/27
JAM GOOD
If you don’t get enough rockin’ around the Christmas tree on the 25th, head to the 17th Annual XMAS JAM. Spun out of the Charlottesville Music Showcase, a weekly series featuring prominent local performers— begun at Orbit Billiards on the Corner way back when—this seasonal gig continues to shine a light on some of C’ville’s brightest musical stars. Hosts Tucker Rogers and BJ Pendleton emcee the evening with appearances by Richelle Claiborne, John D’earth, Jay Pun, Jen Tal, and many more special guests. $15–20, 8pm. The Jefferson Theater, 110 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. jeffersontheater.com
MAJOR SCORE
It wouldn’t be Christmas without Clara dancing through her fantastical dream, accompanied by a dashing prince who conquers the dastardly Mouse King! Charlottesville Ballet presents The Nutcracker, with live music from the Charlottesville Symphony conducted by Benjamin Rous, and collaborations with Cantate Children’s and Youth Choir and Central Virginia Ballet. Audiences of all ages can revel in this seasonal classic, with memorable melodies and expertly choreographed scenes.You know the characters.You know the score. Prices and times vary. Martin Luther King, Jr. Performing Arts Center, 1400 Melbourne Rd. charlottesvilleballet.org
CULTURE STAGES
Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Ithought I knew enough about Trans-Siberian Orchestra, but it turns out that just about everything I had in mind was wrong.
For starters, I let the name fool me—its founding members were American, with the band’s visionary producer, composer, and lyricist, the late Paul O’Neill, born in Flushing, Queens. Next, I would have eagerly wagered that the group had formed in the ’70s (nope, 1996). I also thought, yeah, sure, it’s a hard-rock prog band that did some Christmas stuff and somehow fell ass backwards into regular rotation on holiday radio playlists. That assessment is far from correct.
TSO’s debut record actually emerged by jamming the Yuletide full throttle with Christmas Eve and Other Stories (1996), followed up with The Christmas Attic (1998). A year later, a made-for-TV theatrical, “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve,” was broadcast, and then, between the release of two ponderous non-late-December-based concept albums, TSO put out The Lost Christmas Eve (2004), and a 2012 EP, Dreams of Fireflies (On a Christmas Night). The band even published a novella in 2013 as part of its trilogy of the aforementioned full-lengths called—and I’m not joking here—Merry Christmas Rabbi
Did I have Trans-Siberian Orchestra confused with Mannheim Steamroller? Because that band has a lot of Xmas discs to its credit, too. It led me to raise the question: How much Christmas is too much? One thing that simply cannot be refuted is that excess and Christmastime reign supreme with TSO.
From the bombast of electric violins and the chorus of many vocalists, to the over-thetop dexterity of well-re-
Wednesday 12/18 music
Beleza Duo. Funkalicious samba soul sung in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. Free, 7pm. The Bebedero, 201 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thebebedero.com
Berto & Matt. Latin guitar night. Free, 7pm. The Bebedero, 201 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thebebedero.com
Leslie Odom, Jr. A multifaceted Tony and Grammy Award-winning, three-time Emmy and two-time Academy Award-nominated vocalist, songwriter, actor, and New York Times bestselling author. $49–89, 7:30pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net
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
classes
Holiday Workshop. Festive fun creating seasonal crafts. Ages 4–10. All skill levels welcome. Registration required. $40, 4pm. Virginia Discovery Museum, 524 E. Main St. vadm.org
Holiday Carols with Heidi Riddell. Virginia singer-songwriter channels the holiday spirit. Free, 5pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwoodfarmandwinery.com
Jam with Steve Lanza. Steve hosts 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
Songwriter’s Open Mic. An evening of local talent playing original music. All levels, styles, and ages welcome. Amps and mics provided. Signups begin at 6:30pm. Free, 7pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potters craftcider.com
Trans-Siberian Orchestra. The Lost Christmas Eve is based on TSO’s double-platinum album of the same name. The plot is one that resonates with people over the holiday season. Ticket prices vary, 7pm. John Paul Jones Arena, 295 Massie Rd. johnpaul jonesarena.com
stage
hearsed rockers speeding up the necks of their guitars as if the holiday itself depended on it, TSO does not deal in moderation. Interlocking rainbow webs of lasers, platforms raised to the heavens, whirling lights, and enough fire plumes to make a vintage KISS concert seem chilly, the band’s live show is a mad search to eradicate the Grinches among us with good will, sleeveless shirts, aggressive hip thrusts, and as many moving pieces as Cirque du Soleil.
TSO has become so synonymous with the holiday season in the U.S. that there are actually two versions of the band on tour simultaneously. While the East Coast TSO demonstrates the power of giving to Charlottesville, with guitarists Joel Hoekstra (of Whitesnake) and Chris Caffery leading the charge, a West Coast TSO is held down by original member Al Pitrelli stuffing the ever-loving stockings of a dazzled audience in Indianapolis.
If you’re doing your utmost to keep Christ in Christmas, and I don’t mean to imply that going to this show is the opposite of that directive, or that the show is antithetical to praying at church for that matter (look, I’ve probably never been to your church), but epileptics, celibates, and fundamentalists should be aware that TSO sure as hell ain’t Vince Guaraldi’s A Charlie Brown Christmas
Hopefully these factors don’t scare you away from getting pumped, getting glammed up, and getting your Chrimbo on with the same great joy as the angel who brought good tidings from Bethlehem to the shepherds, who, if memory serves, were also momentarily terrified before they realized what was happening.
John Paul Jones Arena Thursday 12/19
—CM Gorey
Paint + Sip: Winter Forest. Learn a variety of techniques and skills to render a winter forest scene. No experience necessary, one drink included with ticket. $45, 6pm. Pro Re Nata, 6135 Rockfish Gap Tpke., Crozet. blueridgebrushes.com
etc.
Eyes Wide Shut Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman play a well-to-do couple whose marriage is put to the test during a bizarre holiday season in Stanley Kubrick’s final film. $10, 6pm. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, 5th Street Station. drafthouse.com
Fiorano’s Karaoke. Sing your heart out at Fiorano’s Karaoke. Easy sign up and a booming sound system. Free, 9pm. Fiorano Restaurant and Bar, 5924 Seminole Trail, Ste. 101, Barboursville. fioranomediterranean.com
Musical Mayhem Trivia Night. Test your knowledge with four rounds of trivia for up to six players per team. Winnable prizes for first- and second-place with a second-tolast-place prize to boot. Free, 6pm. Albemarle CiderWorks, 2545 Rural Ridge Ln., North Garden. albemarleciderworks.com
Rapture Karaoke. Downtown C’ville’s longestrunning 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 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 12/19 music
Berto and Vincent. Join Berto and Vincent for a night of wild flamenco rumba and Latin guitar. Free, 7pm. The Bebedero, 225 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thebebedero.com
DJ Williams x Erin & The Wildfire. Lead guitarist for the critically acclaimed band Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe. With indie-pop/neo soul favorites. $15–18, 8pm. The Southern Café and Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesouthern cville.com
Murder Mystery. Can you uncover the murderer before the professionals? If not, no problem. Sit back and take in the situational comedy, and let the story unravel. $10, 7pm. Albemarle CiderWorks, 2545 Rural Ridge Ln., North Garden. albemarleciderworks.com
classes
Holiday Sewing. Join us for some open studio time and hands-on lessons to make holiday-themed items. Good for both beginners and those with some sewing experience. Ages 13+. $50, noon. The Scrappy Elephant, 1745 Allied St. scrappyelephant.com 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.
Evening Holiday Guided Tour. Take advantage of a small-group evening experience. Tickets include admission for up to six people. $150, 4:30pm. James Monroe’s Highland, 2050 James Monroe Pkwy. high land.org Firefly Karaoke. Sing your heart out. Free, 8pm. Firefly, 1304 E. Market St. fireflycville.com
Veritas Illuminated. Back for our third season, we are continuing the tradition of our Veritas Illuminated light show, a walking light trail winding through the Veritas grove and vines. $10–15, 5:30pm. Veritas Vineyards and Winery, 151 Veritas Lane, Afton. veritaswines.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 12/20 music
Andy Tichenor Duo. Acoustic sets in the tasting room. Free, 5:30pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potterscraft cider.com
Crawford & Power. A night of Appalachian red dirt country music. $10, 7pm. Pro Re Nata, 6135 Rockfish Gap Tpke., Crozet. prnbrewery.com
Duo Boheme. An elegant throwback to the 1920s and ’30s, providing a selection of standard classical wedding repertoire, mellow pop, and an array of Django Reinhardt. Free, 8pm. The Stage at WTJU, 2244 Ivy Rd. wtju.net
Eli Cook Band. Music from the crossroads of blues, the highways of rock, and the backroads of country. Free, 9pm. Holly’s Diner, 1221 E. Market St.
Hash. Local next-gen rock. With Pocket Change. $15, 8pm. The Southern Café and Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com
Holiday Carols with Sue Harlow. A deeply emotive singer brings forth songs of the holiday season. Free, 5pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwood farmandwinery.com
Ken Farmer & The Authenticators. Fresh originals and vintage covers rooted in classic blues, country, and rock. Free, 6pm. Glass House Winery, 5898 Free Union Rd., Free Union. glasshousewinery.com
Love Canon. A bluegrass-tinged joyride covering the music of the ‘80s. $25, 8pm. The Jefferson Theater, 110 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. jeffersontheater.com
Mo Sarfen. Everything from the sounds of Motown to traditional pop, classical compositions, and more. Free, 6pm. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. starrhill.com
CreativeMornings Charlottesville. A monthly breakfast lecture series for the creative community. Free, 8:30am. Charlottesville. ComeToCharlottesvilleVA.com
classes
Paint + Sip: Holiday Wineglass. Cheers to this fun holiday DIY project. Learn how to paint a seasonal design on stemware in a step-by-step format, no experience necessary. $20, 5pm. Darling Boutique, 115 First St. S. blueridgebrushes.com 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
Evening Holiday Guided Tour. See listing for Thursday, December 19. $150, 4:30pm. James Monroe’s Highland, 2050 James Monroe Pkwy. highland.org
Fiorano’s Karaoke. See listing for Wednesday, December 18. 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
Veritas Illuminated. See listing for Thursday, December 19. $10–15, 5:30pm. Veritas Vineyards and Winery, 151 Veritas Ln., Afton. veritaswines.com
Vineyard Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Thurdsday, December 19. $15, available noon–8pm. Please confirm Eastwood Winery and Potter’s Cider hours beforehand. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. puzzledbee. com
Winter Fae Court. Celebrate the solstice and the magic of the winter season with games, snacks, crafts, and more. Ages 13-18. Registration required. Free, 6:30pm. Crozet Library, 2020 Library Ave., Crozet. jmrl.org
CONTINUED ON PAGE 39
CULTURE SMALL BITES
Here’s to more openings, fewer closings, and a delicious new year
This year, the culinary scene proved resilient. Despite challenges— fires, break-ins, and heartbreak— the community thrived. We mourn the loss of Mel Walker and celebrate the continuation of his soul-food legacy at Diilishus Fish & Chik’n Blue Moon Diner closed after nearly two decades, leaving behind memories of its role as a community hub. And we honor the first anniversary of Wilson Richey’s passing, his indelible mark still woven into the fabric of Charlottesville’s food scene.
But let’s not forget: There were far more openings than closings this year. Here’s what to check out, what we’ll miss, and recs on how to make the most of New Year’s Eve. Sarah Golibart Gorman
Open
Ace Biscuit and Barbecue is back, baby! Don’t wait to sink your teeth into the Harris Avenue ’cue spot’s indulgent biscuits and smoked meats.
Brookville Biscuit & Brunch is your allday brunch haven. After three years online-only, it’s bringing hazy morning vibes to life again.
Diilishus Fish & Chik’n is keeping Mel Walker’s soul-food spirit alive with classic comfort dishes in the beloved former café location.
Tangerines Kitchen started with American breakfast and Thai dinners, but now serves Thai all day. Winter calls for tom yum and tom ka soup.
Althea Bread’s shop is your carb HQ. Think flaky pastries and sourdough crafted with local grains from small, regional farms.
El Tizón is now Al Carbon’s Woodbrook location, so why not grab rotisserie chicken from both and compare? Research never tasted so good.
Currylicious at Dairy Market offers Nepalese and Indian street food. Order the momos—hot, juicy dumplings packed with spices.
Ethos Wine & Tea is the perfect spot to bring a book or a friend and cozy up with a glass of natural wine or a soothing cup of tea.
South Paddock Winery in Whitehall boasts not just wine but horseback rides across 310 scenic acres.
Roux St. Cafe brings the low country to you. Cajun Creole classics in Woodbrook—don’t sleep on the cheesy étouffée.
Camellias Bar & Roastery pushes creative decadence with offerings like crispy, pistachio-y Dubai chocolate croissants and spiced espresso martinis.
Pi-Napo’s pizzas are hypnotic—find out if those marinara swirls are as delicious as they are mesmerizing.
The Doyle, the former Quirk hotel reimagined, invites us to ring in the new year at the Lobby Bar with funky, high-energy rock ‘n’ roll from Disco Risqué or take a breather at The Rooftop for sweeping views of the city.
Little Manila’s brick-and-mortar Resto is ready to wow your taste buds with flavorful pancit and balut—a traditional Filipino delicacy of steamed fertilized duck egg.
Sbrocco’s Donuts & Espresso sweetens the deal in Fry’s Spring with a menu of perfectly composed glazed classics, and other goodness (like its buttery crunchy crumb bun).
Mejicali brings the heat with Latin dance nights and crafty cocktails made by River Hawkins—don’t sit this one out!
Ring in the new year
Tavola’s New Year’s Eve prix fixe is a four-course journey through elevated ingredients, including foie gras, lobster, and venison, with optional wine pairings.
Barboursville Vineyards pairs each of its five festive courses with the perfect wine.
Closed
Blue Moon Diner, gone but never forgotten. Now to try to recreate Hogwaller Hash at home…
Moose’s by the Creek closes on December 31 after a decade in business. The restaurant’s social posts hint at a return, so keep an eye out for those antlers on a wall near you.
Rumi’s Famous Kebab was a fleeting treasure, now closed without explanation. Let Rumi the poet console us: “Goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes. Because for those who love with heart and soul there is no such thing as separation.”
Burger Bach in Stonefield closed its doors in August, leaving us craving another Wellington burger and fries.
The fate of Clubhouse Cafe, a sandwich spot open since mid-June, remains uncertain; a December 2 social post announced a closure “until further notice” with promises of an update on its future soon.
Umma’s, with its creative Korean flavors, said farewell in September. Luckily, DOMA, MARU, and other Korean favorites carry the torch.
At Dairy Market, we said goodbye to Citizen Burger Stand, 434th Street, Al Basha, Grn Burger, and South and Central—though free parking is a silver lining.
Kick off the year with no reservations (literally!) at Blue Mountain Brewery for a hearty brunch. Try the deep-fried bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich—pancake batter makes everything better.
Veritas hosts a Masquerade Ball with a five-course menu starting with Smoke in Chimneys Trout Rillette on sourdough, topped with crème fraîche, radish, parsley pistou, and lemon. and wine pairings.
The Alley Light offers two elegant New Year’s Eve options: a four-course dinner or an extravagant seven-course meal with wine pairings.
Chefs Kelsey Naylor and Anna Gardner closed their Korean fusion restaurant, Umma’s, in September.
JOHN ROBINSON
CULTURE EXTRA
Saturday 12/21
music
Berto Sales. Come enjoy the sounds of Brazil, Spain, and Latin America with Berto Sales. His unique fingerpicking style and contagious energy will have you tapping your feet. Free, 11am. Tavern & Grocery, 333 W. Main St. tavernandgrocery.com
Christmas at the Paramount. Join Music
Director Michael Slon and 95 of our community’s finest singers for this beloved Charlottesville holiday tradition with the Oratorio Society of Virginia. $10–54, 2:30pm and 7:30pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net
Dave Goodrich. This D.C.-native singer-songwriter has a rock-based repertoire including flavors of jazz, blues, and other popular genres. Free, 2pm. DuCard Vineyards, 40 Gibson Hollow Ln., Etlan. ducardvineyards.com
Drew Pace Band. Twenty-two-year-old country music singer-songwriter from Scottsville, Virginia. With Americana music from the Jacob Ritter Duo. $10, 7pm. Pro Re Nata, 6135 Rockfish Gap Tpke., Crozet. prnbrewery.com
Dropping “Yule”-ia with Dropping Julia. Winter solstice and holiday celebration featuring sassy and dreamy songs with funky flavor. Free, 10pm. Rapture, 303 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. rapturerestaurant.com
Jackson, Pendergrass, and Townsend. Original music in the jazz/blues tradition. Free, 5pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwoodfarmandwinery.com
Kass Richards. Third Rail presents singer-songwriter Kass Richards. Folk-rock with indie-pop inflections. Free, 8pm. The Stage at WTJU, 2244 Ivy Rd. wtju.net
Lenny Burridge. Americana, blues, folk, pop, and rock music. Free, 1pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwood farmandwinery.com
Mayday. Original tunes featuring four-part harmonies and trumpet solos. With Paxton Henderson and the Misfit Toys. $12–15, 8pm. The Southern Cafe & Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com
Sexy X-Mas Party with Stiff Peaks. Don your sharpest gown or sweater and join this band of local somebodies as they play their favorite vibey songs from the ‘70s and ‘80s, with maybe a holiday tune or two. Free, 8pm. Dürty Nelly’s, 2200 Jefferson Park Ave. durtynellyscville.com
Silas Frayser Band. A night full of tasty jams and sweet songs for the annual Hometown Christmas show. $10, 7pm. Batesville Market, 6624 Plank Rd., Batesville. batesvillemarket.com
The Michael Elswick Gathering. Jazz, blues, ballads, and Latin tunes. Free, 2pm. Glass House Winery, 5898 Free Union Rd., Free Union. glasshousewinery.com
The Pollocks. American rock, with the right amount of soul. Free, 2:30pm. Albemarle CiderWorks, 2545 Rural Ridge Ln., North Garden. albemarleciderworks.com
WTJU Vinyl Takeover + Ugly Sweater Party. Our traditional Ugly Sweater Party returns with DJ Android and Ranger spinning vinyl. Prizes will be given out for the “best’ sweaters. Free, 10pm. Miller’s Downtown, 109 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. millersdowntown.com
dance
Charlottesville Ballet’s The Nutcracker Sweeten your holiday season with The Nutcracker, presented with live music conducted by Benjamin Rous and collaborations with Cantate Children’s and Youth Choir and Central Virginia Ballet. $25–95, 11:30am and 3:30pm. Martin Luther King Jr. Performing Arts Center, 1400 Melbourne Rd. charlottesvilleballet.org
Shoulda been there
The best reasons to have left the couch in 2024
By CM Gorey
It’s all too easy to get disgruntled about some of the usual entertainment in a tight town like ours—that is, if you close your eyes and ears too tightly and just stay home all the time. Here are some of the events that made me glad I got my ass off of the couch.
Please Don’t Tell
March 9, The Southern Café & Music Hall
After years and years—first as a piano and cello duo, and since 2021 as a trio with violin—Please Don’t Tell finally committed its feminist tilt of Victorian parlor violence to record, and held this Spirit Ball to serve as an audio coming out party of sorts. Though the annunciated operatics of pianist and lead vocalist Christina Fleming were confined to an EP’s worth of tracks on vinyl and other platforms, they were given a much longer runway on which to soar at the Southern. The lengthy set’s highlights were elevated further by violinist/vocalist Anna Hennessy’s adroit musicianship, while cellist Nicole Rimel’s spookedout presence stayed thematically on brand. PDT wrapped up the somberly festive evening by ghosting on to the stage hand-in-hand, gushing forth with an a capella number about leading a man to the woods to die. Good times!
Temple Grandin
May 21,The Paramount Theater
A talk with autism and animal behavior expert Dr. Temple Grandin is a lot to take in at one sitting. But to get a handle on how other brains operate by a living example and proponent of neurodiversity is perhaps the best way to recognize the value that different cognitive styles hold for education, employment, and society. As a visual thinker, Grandin explained that her cognition type represents one kind of thinking—in pictures—while patterns or words are the other overriding ways of understanding the world. Surprisingly, the Colorado State University College of Agricultural Sciences faculty member, who came into fame with her pioneering work redesigning slaughterhouses to lessen trauma and anxiety in livestock, drew a line between neurodivergence and inventors, from Michelangelo to Elon Musk. In doing so, she stressed the need for parents and schools to give autistic (and potentially autistic) children more hands-on ways to tinker and thrive through science projects, car repair, animal care, craft hobbies, playing and writing music, and building machines, among other ideas.
Ruby The Hatchet
June 22, The Jefferson Theater
Baroness may have headlined the show, but Philadelphia-area doom-chugging Ruby The Hatchet brought an indomitable fire to
the night. Jillian Taylor’s gritty vocals recalled the pantheon of classic hard rock’s most celebrated practitioners and paved the way for a churning and captivating demonstration of their uncompromisingly heavy and dramatic songwriting style. A chargedup track like “The Change” and the righteous fuzz of “Primitive Man” were rivaled only by the surprise cover of Quarterflash’s top-10 hit “Harden My Heart.” The overwhelmingly metal fan crowd, seemingly surprised at its own memory, sang along with the choruses. No doubt they were swayed by keyboardist Sean Hur’s busting out of a saxophone to nail the song’s signature horn line, born amidst the power ballad schmaltz of the early ’80s.
Pete Davidson
June 27, The Paramount Theater
Everyone’s favorite controversy-stirring vulgarian, Pete Davidson brought his Prehab Tour to town, furiously driven with all of the honest self-inflicted invectives that provide an unhealthy excuse to laugh along with, or directly at, him—and that’s what complicates the King of Staten Island star’s stand-up. You feel bad for the dude, but not that bad when all is said and done because, well, you’re laughing and he’s a celebrity. So here he was, claiming to have kicked ketamine and coke, but despite lessening the amount, still sticking with pot. And what happens? He goes on to cancel a chunk of his tour the following month in a too-accu-
rate prediction or self-fulfilling prophecy, checking himself into a facility for mental health treatment. If anyone (or everyone?) saw that time-out coming, it didn’t make his stand-up any less funny, and therein lies the problem on the audience’s side and/or the source of the man’s talent: tragedy+cannabis+no values=comedy.
“Out of Context”
October 4-November 22, Second Street Gallery
A six-person group show exquisitely captured what curator and contributing artist Paul Brainard set out to do with “Out of Context”: Let the art do the talking for this complicated and engaging collection of works. That said, many titles were nothing less than intriguing, and, at times, hilarious. Amber Stanton’s striking protagonist females in various states of undress searched for answers across fantastic landscapes (“Soon, Oh Soon the Light”); Jean-Pierre Roy’s “Maybe we’re all just guessing, Margaret” offered a vivid alternative universe bug-out on the traditional Western historical portrait; Miriam Carothers’ five-canvas “SLO Excursion” series caught drunken neon robot rampages; Michael Ryan’s life-size mixed media “The Birthday Party” peered into family figures too close and just too weird; and Hyunjin Park’s eye for detail and intricate color use came to a dozen heads on “I AM Good Looking,” a horizontal panel depicting Brainard, making a rainbow of his expressions.
Please Don’t Tell gave a bewitching performance at the Spirit Ball in March.
TRISTAN WILLIAMS
CULTURE THIS WEEK
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 39
Saturday 12/21
classes
Crocheted Granny Squares. Learn how to mix colors in this intermediate class. Basic crochet experience needed. Leave with a bamboo crochet hook and a granny square. Ages 12+. $25, noon. The Scrappy Elephant, 1745 Allied St. scrappyelephant.com
Date Night Ornaments. Our skilled instructor will guide you through this unique DIY crafting project. $40, 7pm. Pikasso Swig Craft Bar, 333 Second St. SE. pikassoswig.com
Ho-Ho-Hollywood Holiday Bash. Young filmmakers get their choice of festive filmmaking activities and make their own short films to bring home. Then they’ll come together for a holiday movie on the big screen. Registration required. Free, 1pm. Light House Studio: Vinegar Hill Theatre, 220 W. Market St. lighthousestudio.org etc.
Brewery Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Friday, December 20. $18, all day. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. puzzledbee.com
Downtown Holiday Express. Take a merry trip around downtown to enjoy the festive sights. You may even spot one of Santa’s hiding elves. Pick up and drop off next to the fountain at Central Place. Free, 10am. Downtown Mall. friendsofcville.org
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
Trivia Night with Mike & Miranda. Kick off your holiday weekend with trivia. Five rounds for solo players or teams of up to six. Free, 5:30pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potterscraftcider.com
Veritas Illuminated. See listing for Thursday, December 19. $10–15, 5:30pm. Veritas Vineyards and Winery, 151 Veritas Ln., Afton. veritaswines.com
Vineyard Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Thursday, December 19. $15, available noon–8pm. Please confirm Eastwood Winery and Potter’s Cider hours beforehand. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. puzzledbee.com
BRIMS Holiday Showcase. Celebrate the joy of music and learning as BRIMS students showcase their talents in a family-friendly end-of-year recital. Free, 2pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potterscraftcider.com
Caroline Vain. Richmond-based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist with folk and indie-rock elements. Free, 2:30pm. Albemarle CiderWorks, 2545 Rural Ridge Ln., North Garden. albemarleciderworks.com
Jazz Jam. Join a rotating crew of local, regional, and national jazz musicians inviting guests to “join the jam.” Free, 6pm. Miller’s Downtown, 109 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. millersdowntown.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
Willie DE. Solo acoustic bluesy rock. Free, 2pm. Glass House Winery, 5898 Free Union Rd., Free Union. glasshousewinery.com dance
Charlottesville Ballet’s The Nutcracker See listing for Saturday, December 21. $25–95, 12:30pm and 4:30pm. Martin Luther King Jr. Performing Arts Center, 1400 Melbourne Rd. charlottesvilleballet.org etc.
8th Annual Brew & Buddy Run and Elf Screening. This run includes stops at Three Notch’d and Kardinal Hall for a beer at each brewery before returning to the Paramount for Elf on the big screen. $9–25, 4pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net
Brewery Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Friday, December 20. $18, all day. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. puzzledbee.com
Santa is Coming. Join us for a special visit from Santa, with opportunities to take your own photos with St. Nick. Free, noon. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwoodfarmandwinery.com
The Muppet Christmas Carol The Muppets perform the classic Dickens holiday tale, with Kermit the Frog playing Bob Cratchit, the put-upon clerk of stingy Ebenezer Scrooge (Michael Caine). $7–9, 1:30pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net
Veritas Illuminated. See listing for Thursday, December 19. $10–15, 5:30pm. Veritas Vineyards and Winery, 151 Veritas Ln., Afton. veritaswines.com
Vineyard Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Thursday, December 19. $15, available noon–8pm. Please confirm Eastwood Winery and Potter’s Cider hours beforehand. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. puzzledbee.com
Monday 12/23 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
Festivus. An evening to air your grievances. Featuring Kendall Street Company, Disco Risqué, and The Barons. $20–25, 8pm. The Jefferson Theater, 110 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. jeffersontheater.com
dance
Charlottesville Ballet’s Nutcracker Sweets
Step into a world of wonder with Nutcracker Sweets, a new hour-long sensory-friendly production of the holiday classic ballet designed to be accessible and enjoyable for everybody. $12–55, 10:30am. Martin Luther King Jr. Performing Arts Center, 1400 Melbourne Rd. charlottesvilleballet.org
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
classes
Printing with Legos. Join us for an exciting LEGO printmaking workshop, where participants can explore the art of relief printing in a fun and creative way. Ages 5+. $35, 10am. The Scrappy Elephant, 1745 Allied St. scrappyelephant.com etc.
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.
Trivia Night. Six players max per team. Hosted by Geeks Who Drink. 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
Veritas Illuminated. See listing for Thursday, December 19. $10–15, 5:30pm. Veritas Vineyards and Winery, 151 Veritas Ln., Afton. veritaswines.com
Tuesday 12/24
music
Barling and Collins. A legendary C’ville bar band. Free, 7:30pm. The Whiskey Jar, 227 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thewhiskey jarcville.com
The Charles Owens Trio. Jingle and mingle at our jazzy Christmas Eve party—a night of festive tunes, Christmas-themed cocktails, and plenty of holiday cheer. $10, 7pm. Rooftop Charlottesville, 499 W. Main St. rooftopcharlottesville.com
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.
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
Wednesday 12/25
Happy holidays to all!
Thursday 12/26
music
Benjamin Weimer. Covers and originals. Free, 5pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwoodfarmandwinery.com
Berto and Vincent. See listing for Thursday, December 19. Free, 7pm. The Bebedero, 225 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thebebedero.com
Matthew O’Donnell. See listing for Thursday, December 19. Free, 7:30pm. The Whiskey Jar, 227 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thewhiskeyjarcville.com etc.
Dart Night. See listing for Thursday, December 19. Free, 6pm. Decipher Brewing, 1740 Broadway St.
Evening Holiday Guided Tour. See listing for Thursday, December 19. $150, 4:30pm. James Monroe’s Highland, 2050 James Monroe Pkwy. highland.org
Holiday Evening Tours. Join us for the rare opportunity to experience Monticello after dark, decorated with the style of holiday greenery found during Jefferson’s era. $99, 5–7 p.m. Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, 931 Thomas Jefferson Pkwy. home.monticello.org
Veritas Illuminated. See listing for Thursday, December 19. $10–15, 5:30pm. Veritas Vineyards and Winery, 151 Veritas Ln., Afton. veritaswines.com
Vineyard Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Thursday, December 19. $15, available noon–8pm. Please confirm Eastwood Winery and Potter’s Cider hours beforehand. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. puzzledbee.com
Friday 12/27
music
Brian Franke. Independent award-winning singer-songwriter plays covers and originals. Free, 8pm. Ace Biscuit & Barbecue, 600 Concord Ave.
Chickenhead Blues Band. New Orleans boogie-woogie, upbeat, rhythm and blues. Free, 6pm. Glass House Winery, 5898 Free Union Rd., Free Union. glasshousewinery.com
Ian Gilliam and The Fire Kings. Rock ‘n’ roll, blues, rockabilly, and country from Charlottesville, VA. Free, 9pm. Holly’s Diner, 1221 E. Market St.
Jamie Deane and Friends. Guitar wizard shreds the night away with face-melting riffs. Free, 6pm. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. starrhill.com
Live At The Fillmore. Hailed as “the world’s greatest Allman Brothers tribute band.” $25, 8pm. The Southern Café and Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com
Matthew O’Donnell. Traditional folk and Celtic musician and singer. Free, 5pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwoodfarmandwinery.com
The 17th Annual Xmas Jam. Charlottesville Music Showcase presents a show featuring some of the most active local musicians laying down the groove. Hosted By Tucker Rogers and BJ Pendleton. $15, 8pm. The Jefferson Theater, 110 E. Main St. jeffersontheater.com
stage
Met Live in HD Holiday Encore: The Magic Flute Adults and children alike were enchanted by the whimsical humor and breathtaking puppetry of Julie Taymor’s production, presented in a shortened English-language version originally staged December 30, 2006.
$12–16, 2pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net
Shadowland Cirque. Step into an enigmatic realm where the boundaries between reality and the otherworldly blur in this intimate circus and variety arts show.
$25, 7:30pm. IX Art Park, 522 Second St. SE. ixartpark.com
classes
Paint + Sip: Midnight Flurries. Learn a variety of techniques and skills to render a snowy scene. No experience necessary.
$38, 6pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potterscraftcider.com etc.
Brewery Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Friday, December 20. $18, all day. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. puzzledbee.com
Evening Holiday Guided Tour. See listing for Thursday, December 19. $150, 4:30pm. James Monroe’s Highland, 2050 James Monroe Pkwy. highland.org
Fiorano’s Karaoke. See listing for Wednesday, December 18. Free, 9pm. Fiorano Restaurant and Bar, 5924 Seminole Trail, Ste. 101, Barboursville. fioranomediterranean.com
Trivia with Olivia. See listing for Friday, December 20. Free, 6–8pm. SuperFly Brewing Co., 943 Preston Ave. superflybrewing.com
Veritas Illuminated. See listing for Thursday, December 19. $10–15, 5:30pm. Veritas Vineyards and Winery, 151 Veritas Ln., Afton. veritaswines.com
CONTINUED ON PAGE 42
CULTURE SCREENS
Nothing to see here
The five worst films of 2024
By Justin Humphreys
When we asked our Screens columnist, Justin Humphreys to do a round-up of the year’s movies, he made his feelings clear: “I’m going to have to be very honest and say how precious few good movies there were this year.” His top five losers are below.
Joker Folie a Deux
Nicknamed Joker Filet-o-Fish online, few movies of 2024 deserve being mocked more than Joker Folie a Deux or have so richly earned their immense commercial failure. The first Joker was a lame facsimile of Taxi Driver and The King of Comedy, minus the genius of those films. In this sequel that nobody wanted, even the creepy incels who flock to dreary, adolescent comic book fare like this stayed away in droves. With this sequel, and last year’s Napoleon, star Joaquin Phoenix gives every indication of having forgotten how to act.
Madame Web
A spinoff of the hit Spider-Man movies, Madame Web follows superheroine Madame Web, alias Cassandra Webb (Dakota Johnson), who desperately uses her precognitive powers to save three women. That this clairvoyant is named Cassandra Webb gives you an idea of the level of wit at work here. (To her eternal credit, Johnson was openly dismissive of the film.) This is another silly superhero battle royale with slick, overdone fights and wisecracks. If you want to see an outstanding movie about someone glimpsing future events, watch David Cronenberg’s The Dead Zone instead. Aside from being among the finest Stephen King book adaptations, it also cost a tiny fraction of what was squandered on Madame Web
Borderlands
Director Eli Roth has shifted here from his usual ’80s throwback torture porn to torturing audiences instead. Over $100 million
was spent on adapting the popular video game Borderlands, including casting Jamie Lee Curtis, Kevin Hart, Cate Blanchett, and Ariana Greenblatt, and reportedly set to lose over $80 million. This dumb, loud, unfunny science fiction mess makes you wonder why Roth didn’t adapt a more intellectually stimulating video game like, say, Ms. Pac-Man or Frogger instead. Borderlands is the kind of lowbrow movie that gives enjoyably lowbrow movies a bad name.
Red One
Watching Red One lurch toward its theatrical release this holiday season was like witnessing the Titanic sail toward its fatal iceberg: This movie had disaster written all over it from the start with widely reported budget overruns and other excesses. Red One’s concept of Santa Claus (J. K. Simmons) comically being linked to various secret organizations could have made for an enjoyable, innocuous 10- or 15-minute animated short, but filming it in live-action and stretching it to feature length was a dire error. For what this atrocity cost, a talented director like Kathryn Bigelow could have made six really good, intelligent films.
Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire
Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire represents the movie industry’s nearly complete lack of imagination at work. Cashing in on an established IP like Ghostbusters is standard practice now, but if creative folk were to pitch an idea today as fresh as the original Ghostbusters was in 1984, they’d likely be turned down immediately. Studios are terrified of risks, and it shows in the flatness and predictability of their products, as evidenced by retreads like Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire. Reusing the original film’s stars and many of its other key elements compounds the sense that it’s all just a cash-grab. It lacks the humor, imagination, and unpredictability of the original film, and aside from this essential staleness, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire adds insult to injury by wasting the wonderful Annie Potts.
Joker Folie a Deux
WARNER BROS.
CULTURE THIS WEEK
Friday
Vineyard Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Thursday, December 19. $15, available noon–8pm. Please confirm Eastwood Winery and Potter’s Cider hours beforehand. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. puzzledbee.com
Saturday 12/28 music
Berto Sales. See listing for Saturday, December 21. Free, 11am. Tavern & Grocery, 333 W. Main St. tavernandgrocery.com
Jim Richardson. Folk, country, and rock from a local singer-songwriter. Free, 1pm. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. eastwoodfarmandwinery.com
John Benjamin. Full-time singer-songwriter and live entertainer. Free, 6pm. Decipher Brewing, 1740 Broadway St. Paxton Henderson Duo. Saturday night tunes. Free, 5:30pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potterscraftcider.com
The Skip Castro Band. A mutual love of rhythm & blues, swing, boogie-woogie, and rock ‘n’ roll is the foundation of this longtime group. $25–32, 7:30am. The Jefferson Theater, 110 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. jefferson theater.com
Troy Breslow. This singer-songwriter was recognized in 2018 as Country Artist of the Year in Norfolk. Free, 2pm. DuCard Vineyards, 40 Gibson Hollow Ln., Etlan. ducard vineyards.com
classes
Crochet for Beginners. Join Emma as she teaches you the basics of crochet. Leave with a bamboo crochet hook and a small crocheted washcloth. Ages 12+. $25, noon. The Scrappy Elephant, 1745 Allied St. scrappy elephant.com etc.
Brewery Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Friday, December 20. $18, all day. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market. puzzledbee.com
Downtown Holiday Express. See listing for Saturday, December 21. Free, 10am. Downtown Mall. friendsofcville.org
Storytime. See listing for Saturday, December 21. Free, 11am. New Dominion Bookshop, 404 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. newdominionbookshop.com
Veritas Illuminated. See listing for Thursday, December 19. $10–15, 5:30pm. Veritas Vineyards and Winery, 151 Veritas Ln., Afton. veritaswines.com
Vineyard Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Thursday, December 19. $15, available noon–8pm. Please confirm Eastwood Winery and Potter’s Cider hours beforehand. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. puzzledbee.com
Sunday 12/29 music
12/30 &12/31 | The Jefferson Theater
etc.
Brewery Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Friday, December 20. $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
Silent Book Club. Sip cider and read in quiet camaraderie. No assigned reading, no obligations. Bring your own book of choice. Free, 12:30pm. Albemarle CiderWorks, 2545 Rural Ridge Ln., North Garden. albemarleciderworks.com
Veritas Illuminated. See listing for Thursday, December 19. $10–15, 5:30pm. Veritas Vineyards and Winery, 151 Veritas Ln., Afton. veritaswines.com
Vineyard Puzzle Hunt. See listing for Thursday, December 19. $15, available noon–8pm. Please confirm Eastwood Winery and Potter’s Cider hours beforehand. Eastwood Farm and Winery, 2531 Scottsville Rd. puzzledbee.com
Women’s Basketball: UVA vs. Notre Dame. The Paramount invites the community to join us to cheer on the UVA women’s basketball team on our big screen. Free, noon. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net
Monday 12/30
music
DG3. See listing for Monday, December 23. Free, 5:30pm. Oakhurst Inn, 100 Oakhurst Cir. oakhurstinn.com
Railroad Earth—Night 1. The celebrated New Jersey septet present eloquent songcraft, bluegrass soul, and rock ‘n’ roll spirit. $40–55, 8pm. The Jefferson Theater, 110 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. jefferson theater.com
Blake Esse. Live music by Culpeper’s own country singer. Free, 2pm. DuCard Vineyards, 40 Gibson Hollow Ln., Etlan. ducard vineyards.com
Jason Burke Band. The first stop on a comeback tour. Rock, soul, trucker songs, country, and Cosmik Cowboy music. Free, 2pm. Glass House Winery, 5898 Free Union Rd., Free Union. glasshousewinery.com Michael Johnson. See listing for Sunday, December 22. Free, 1pm. Fiorano Restaurant and Bar, 5924 Seminole Trail, Ste. 101, Barboursville. fioranomediterranean.com
dance
Salsa Dance Night. See listing for Monday, December 23. Free, 9pm. Fiorano Restaurant and Bar, 5924 Seminole Trail, Ste. 101, Barboursville. fioranomediterranean.com
classes
Planner Group. Come plan for the New Year. Bring your own planner or grab one at the program. Ages 13+. Registration Required. Free, 5:30pm. Crozet Library, 2020 Library Ave, Crozet. jmrl.org
CULTURE PAGES
etc.
Game Night. See listing for Monday, December 23. Free, 5pm. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market.
Geeks Who Drink Trivia. See listing for Monday, December 23. Free, 6:30pm. Decipher Brewing, 1740 Broadway St.
Trivia Night. See listing for Monday, December 23. 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. This month’s theme is “Game of Thrones.” Hosted by Olivia. Reservations recommended. Free, 7pm. Three Notch’d Craft Kitchen & Brewery - Charlottesville, 520 Second St. SE. threenotchdbrewing.com
Veritas Illuminated. See listing for Thursday, December 19. $10–15, 5:30pm. Veritas Vineyards and Winery, 151 Veritas Ln., Afton. veritaswines.com
Tuesday 12/31
music
New Year’s Eve Party with Disco Risqué. Get ready to dance the night away with Disco Risqué, Virginia’s premier funky, rock-n-roll party band. $50–60, 9pm. The Doyle Hotel, 499 W. Main St. rooftopcharlottesville.com
New Year’s Eve Party with the Musical Suspects. Matt Horn and his Musical Suspects bring the funk to help usher out one year and ring in the next ... for what that’s worth. $10, 9pm. Rapture Restaurant, 303 E. Main St. rapturerestaurant.com Railroad Earth—Night 2. See listing for Monday, December 30. $50-65, 9pm. The Jefferson Theater, 110 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. jeffersontheater.com
Vincent Zorn. See listing for Tuesday, December 24. The Bebedero, 225 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thebebedero.com
dance
A Y2K New Year’s Eve Dance & Drag Party. Ring in 2025 celebrating all things Y2K. Wear your best baby tees and butterfly clips and dance the night away to the top hits from the early aughts and drag performances. Ages 18+. $20, 9pm. The Southern Cafe & Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesouthern cville.com
Studio 51 New Year’s Eve Party. Prepare to get your groove on and levitate as the clock strikes midnight. Music from Brielle, Pomegranite Disco, Meep, Fancy K. $20–30, 8pm. The Looking Glass, 522 Second St. SE, Ste. D. ixartpark.org
classes
Crochet Club. Experienced and beginner crocheters alike are welcome to the library to make fun crochet creations. Ages 13–18. Registration required. Free, 2pm. Crozet Library, 2020 Library Ave., Crozet. jmrl.org
etc.
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. See listing for Tuesday, December 24. Free, 7pm. Fiorano Restaurant and Bar, 5924 Seminole Trail, Ste. 101, Barboursville. fioranomediterranean.com
The Run Club. Run a 5K then head back to the brewery for social sips. Runners get $1off draft. Free, 6pm. Decipher Brewing, 1740 Broadway St.
Holiday hours may impact events. Please check with venues to confirm listing details.
Stacking up
Six books I didn’t read in 2024
By Sarah Lawson
Earlier this fall, I had COVID and, among its other health impacts, one bears mentioning here: For a time, I lost the ability to read. That is, I couldn’t read anything longer than a sentence without losing the rest of the day to a blinding headache. As a fervid reader, this was crushing. I spent a lot of time sleeping and then staring at a stack of books, wondering if I would ever read them. It got a bit maudlin. I’m now back in the world of readers and, to celebrate, here is a list of books from 2024 that I hope to read soon.
The Great Cool Ranch Dorito in the Sky by Josh Galarza Josh Galarza is a Richmond-based writer and educator who’s currently completing his MFA in creative writing. His debut novel, The Great Cool Ranch Dorito in the Sky, was selected as a finalist for the 2024 National Book Award for Young People’s Literature, among other notable recognition. Accolades aside, I love a heartwarming YA novel and this one explores themes of mental health, grief, and body dysmorphia with empathy, quirkiness, and comics—and presumably a big handful of the titular chips in all their tongue-tingling glory.
The Practice, the Horizon, and the Chain by Sofia Samatar
Sofia Samatar is a Roop Distinguished Professor of English at JMU and I look forward to reading everything that she writes. Her work is wide-ranging in genre, including speculative fiction, nonfiction about the craft of writing, memoir and family history, and more. Plus, her books offer interesting structural forms, lyrical prose, and deeply imaginative worldbuilding. She’s also prolific—this is just one of her two new titles this year. Like so much of the science fiction I enjoy, The Practice, the Horizon, and the Chain offers starships, transformative journeys, and a vision of the shared liberation that can come through collective action.
Cyberlibertarianism: The Right-Wing Politics of Digital Technology by David Golumbia
Before he passed away in 2023, David Golumbia taught at VCU and, before that, at UVA, where I had the good fortune of being his student. Intellectually rigorous and passionate about his work and the community it made possible, he left us this new, posthumous book that examines the right-wing legal and economic underpinnings of digital technology and how the early promise of the internet helped foster present-day fascism in global politics. Informed by expansive research as well as his experience as a software developer, this book argues that we have to understand where things went wrong before we can develop more egalitarian technological futures.
Soil: The Story of a Black Mother’s Garden by Camille Dungy
This fall, Camille Dungy was the UVA Creative Writing Program’s Kapnick Distinguished Writer-in-Residence and gave a reading of her work. She is a poet and prose writer whose work often examines intersections between race, gender, the environment, history, and family. Among other honors, she was a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award and received the Library of Virginia Literary Award. Her latest book, Soil, shares her experience as a Black gardener and mother in a predominantly white town, examining how homogeneity harms our ecosystems and ourselves, while also interrogating how we relate to ideas of home.
The Sapling Cage by Margaret Killjoy
Margaret Killjoy is a transfeminine author, musician, and podcaster. Her community preparedness podcast, Live Like the World is Dying, is a mainstay for me, and her previous work includes short stories and novels that are darkly funny speculative fiction, bordering on horror at times. She gave a reading at The Beautiful
Don’t turn the page on these great reads that were published over the past year.
Idea in September for her latest, The Sapling Cage, which is the first in a trilogy. This book promises to be more high fantasy than what I’ve read from her in the past, combining witchcraft, monsters, and magic in an epic, queer coming-of-age story that also tackles questions of power, identity, and gender. No notes.
Aster of Ceremonies by JJJJJerome Ellis
JJJJJerome Ellis is a self-described “disabled Grenadian-Jamaican-American artist, surfer, and person who stutters” who gave a performance of their work in October as the Rea Writer in Poetry at UVA. Their latest book, Aster of Ceremonies, is a poetic healing ritual, an invocation of ancestors, and a deft examination of race and collective belonging, reimagining what it means for Black and disabled people to take their freedom. Though I am typically a paperback reader, this audiobook is read and performed by Ellis, and I am ecstatic for the chance to listen while holding a hard copy in my hands, creating a harmonic resonance through his words.
SUPPLIED
PHOTOS
THE WINE DOWN
WHAT’S DELISH AT LOCAL WINERIES?
CHISWELL FARM WINERY
2021 Cabernet Sauvignon
Our Cabernet Sauvignon is the perfect wine for the winter season with a full body and hints of spice, peppercorn, cedar, and dark rich fruit. Pair this with your Sunday roasts, chili, or even by the fireplace with friends and family!
A historic Jeffersonian estate nestled in the Virginia countryside, Chiswell Farm & Winery invites guests to delight in locally crafted vintages, panoramic views, and warm hospitality. With a glass in hand, savor the breathtaking scenery from a rocking chair on our covered porch. Gather with friends around a dining table on the lawn or get comfortable in the historic and inviting Greenwood home. Whether you want to come up to the bar for a chat or spread out a blanket for a private picnic, there are countless ways to enjoy the best that Virginia wine country has to offer.
We serve our award-winning wines by the glass, bottle, and flight, seasonal specialty beverages, and a tasteful selection of local and gourmet snacks. Guests are also welcome to bring their own food to enjoy with our wines.
Ages 21+ only, no dogs or other pets permitted on the property. For a family-friendly experience, visit our wine shop at Carter Mountain Orchard. Visit chiswellwinery.com for our seasonal events calendar!
Dec. 23rd - OPEN for special holiday hours
Dec. 24th - OPEN from 11 am – 4 pm for special Holiday hours
Dec. 25th – CLOSED for Christmas
Dec. 30th, 31st & Jan. 1st - OPEN for the holiday
Hours:
Wednesday-Sunday 11 am – 5:30 pm
430 Greenwood Rd, Greenwood, VA 22943
434.252.2947 • chiswellwinery.com
53RD WINERY AND VINEYARD
A note from Winegrower and Owner, Dave Drillock Relish the moment! The cool evenings have arrived, and the Holidays are coming up fast. Get your port glass ready. It is time to light up the fireplace, or firepit, or just take an evening to relax with a glass of our Chelsey Extended Aging or our Kelso port-style wine. Fortified with brandy, these wines are flavorful sippers, perfect for this time of the year!
For the month of December, we have a shipping special. Ship 6-11 bottles for a flat rate of $10 and 12+ bottles ship for free. We also added several new states we can ship to. Send a gift of Virginia wine. We also reintroduced our 2021 Two Springs Bordeaux Blend to the tasting room. It was a Gold Medal Governor Cup winner earlier this year. Stop by and give this gold medal winner a try. Visit us at our meadow-like setting in rural Louisa County. We are down-to-earth and love to share our enthusiasm about wine with customers. Simply put, we are authentic. No rehearsed lines or memorized facts about wine. Just friendly and inviting. We’ll have several special tasting events in December and over the next 6 months. Check our website www.53rdwinery.com or call 540894-1536 for more information. We look forward to seeing you at the winery! As always, your business and support are appreciated.
We hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Dec. 21st & 28th – Sign up for our Taste the Future event. This is a 90 minute special wine tasting of white and rose wines for the 2024 harvest and barrel tasting of 2023 red wines to be bottles later this year. Visit our website for the Tock signup.
Dec. 25th - CLOSED for Christmas
DUCARD VINEYARDS
2020 Dorothy’s Slippers
Sparkling Norton Rosé
The DuCard Vineyard’s 2020 Dorothy’s Slippers is the first vintage of the latest addition to our line of sparkling wines - a sparkling Rosé.
This limited release brut, Méthode Champenoise style wine is 90% Virginia Native Norton and 10% Viognier. Tiny bubbles, very elegant and refreshing sparkler.
This month we will be selling a Norton Holiday Pack that includes one bottle each of our 2021 Norton, 2020 Dorothy’s Slippers Sparkling Norton, and 2021 C’est Trop Norton dessert wine. Visit or shop online to purchase. Throughout the month we will be hosting live music every weekend, and look forward to welcoming guests all month long! We will be open every day, except for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Fridays- Friday Night Out! Every Friday night through the summer we feature half price wine flights, live music, food for sale, and grills available for use until 8:00pm.
Weekends- Live music all weekend long! Check out our lineup on our website!
Dec. 24th, 25th , & Jan 1st – CLOSED for the Holidays
Seasonal specials including our 2022 Meritage Reserve, housemade mulled wine, and chocolate stout. Food specials including hearty flatbreads & soups, grilled cheese, pretzel bites,
chocolate fondue & much more. Firepits & s’mores available 7 days a week without a reservation.
Upcoming at the Winery:
Holiday Carols | Thursday, December 19 & Friday, December 20
Enjoy the spirit of the season with classic carols and joyful tunes performed by local musicians, Heidi Riddell on December 19 and Sue Harlow on December 20. We look forward to welcoming you to the winery for a heartwarming celebration of holiday cheer in a cozy and festive atmosphere. Relax with delicious and seasonal beverages, snacks, and dinner and enjoy an evening that is fun for the whole family.
Low-Country Shrimp Boil | Fridays: December 20, December 27 & All Winter
Get ready for a delicious, flavorpacked Shrimp Boil Feast most Friday nights this winter! We’re bringing the best of Southern tradition right to your plate with succulent shrimp, juicy sausage, tender corn on the cob, and perfectly seasoned potatoes – all served hot and ready to enjoy in a relaxed, fun atmosphere with live music from 5-8pm on the stage in our tasting room.
Santa Is Coming To Town | Sunday, December 22
Join us for a special visit from Santa! Plus, we’ll have holiday milk and cookies flights available again this year (back by popular demand!) for the kids. This is an indoor event with opportunities to take your own photos with Santa. There is no cost to visit Santa.
Mocktails & Mimosas |
Beginning January 1
We’re ringing in the new year with a refreshing new lineup of non-alcoholic beverages! From our vibrant mocktails to fruity mimosas, we have something for every taste. And if you haven’t yet tried Wölffer Estate’s nonalcoholic Sparkling Rosé, you’re in for a treat! Trust us, it’s that good. We’re excited to feature this non-alcoholic sparkling gem on our menu all month long, alongside hand-crafted mocktails and a selection of refreshing nonalcoholic beers.
Vision
Boarding | Wednesday, January 1 (Adults) & Thursday, January 2 (All Ages)
Start the new year by setting your intentions with a vision boarding workshop led by Tiffany Edwards of TME Coaching & Consulting. All materials will be provided. Join us to learn practical techniques to stay motivated and aligned with your dreams in 2025. This is a ticketed event with limited space. Reserve your spot!
Teacher Appreciation Night w/Music Bingo | Thursday, January 16
Teachers are the heart of our community, shaping the minds and futures of our children every day. It’s time to show them just how much we appreciate their hard work, dedication, and passion! Join us for a special Teacher Appreciation Night, a celebration of the incredible educators in our community. All are welcome to join us and teachers enjoy a 10% discount on food and beverages in the tasting room and free entry
into a special raffle for fun prizes. Plus, all guests can join in Music Bingo.
MUSIC AT EASTWOOD!
Join us for the popular Eastwood After Dark featuring upbeat, danceable music on Saturday nights from 5-8pm (in addition to our more mellow Saturday afternoon music program). Eastwood also hosts a range of live performances by talented local and regional musicians every Thursday and Friday night. See the Winery Calendar on our website for details.
Every Thursday: Live Music 5-8 PM. Thursday “Thank You” Community Day at Eastwood— Select $5
Glasses of Wine, Beer, Cider and Wine Slushies All Day
Every Friday: Live Music 5-8 PM
Virginia Oyster & Wine Celebration 5-8PM
Every Saturday: Live Music 1-4 PM + Eastwood After Dark with Live Music 5-8 PM
Every Sunday: Music Bingo or Paint & Sip or Maker’s Market or Live Music (See the Winery Calendar on our website for details.)
What about the kids?
Kids can share in the experience with their own juice tasting flights and cheese boards!
We look forward to welcoming you to our tasting room, seven days a week. Join us for award-winning wines, beer, and cider, as well as delicious lunch and dinner menus. Enjoy lounging on the veranda with a glass of our gold medal 2022 Rosé. Or, stay inside and enjoy live music with a seasonal flatbread or baked brie. We also have juice flights and cheese boards for the kids. See the Winery Calendar for details. Escape to Virginia Wine Country, only five miles from Downtown Charlottesville. Open year-round, seven days a week.
Pet friendly and large groups are welcome. Ample indoor and outdoor seating.
Rt 20 near the intersection with Avon Extended (5 mi from Downtown Mall) Charlottesville, VA 22902 (434) 264-6727
www.eastwoodfarmandwinery.com
KESWICK VINEYARDS
Keswick Vineyards is excited to announce the opening of its new tasting room, designed to elevate
your wine-tasting experience to new heights. This state-of-the-art space features a retractable roof and glass walls that can be fully retracted, seamlessly blending the indoor and outdoor environments. Imagine sipping your favorite vintage surrounded by panoramic views of the vineyard and rolling countryside, all while enjoying the perfect balance of fresh air and comfort.
Whether you’re a connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, Keswick Vineyards offers a range of tasting options to suit your preferences. You can enjoy wine by the glass, bottle, or explore a curated flight of their finest selections. The traditional guided tastings are available Monday through Friday, allowing you to experience their diverse portfolio of wines in a relaxed setting.
For those looking to unwind Enjoy live music every Saturday from 12-4 PM, the perfect soundtrack to a relaxing afternoon in the vineyards
Come experience the innovation and charm of Keswick Vineyards’ new tasting room—a place where tradition meets modern luxury, and every visit feels like a special occasion.
Daily- Mini golf open and available!
Wednesdays - Wine Down Wednesdays 5:30-8:30pm
Weekends - Live Music from 12-4 pm (check out our website for the schedule!)
A Symphony in a Glass: The Art of Blending Chardonnay and Viognier
In the world of winemaking, blending is both a science and an art, a delicate balance of flavors that can elevate a wine to new heights. Our winemaker Justin Falco’s 2023 L’Espoir, 70% Chardonnay and 30% Viognier blend is a testament to this craft, offering a unique fusion of two beloved white varietals. Characteristics and Flavor Profile
The Vision Behind the Blend
Justin’s inspiration for this blend came from a desire to create a wine that embodies the elegance of Chardonnay while incorporating the aromatic richness of Viognier. Chardonnay, with its versatile character, brings structure, body, and a nuanced complexity, while Viognier adds a vibrant layer of floral and stone fruit notes. The result is a wine that is both refreshing and luxurious, perfect for those who appreciate the subtleties of a well-crafted blend.
Tasting Notes: A Dance of Flavors
On the nose, this blend presents an inviting bouquet of ripe pear, white peach, and delicate honeysuckle, courtesy of the Viognier. The Chardonnay lends its signature aromas of green apple,
citrus, and just a hint of vanilla, creating a harmonious interplay of scents.
Upon tasting, the wine reveals a beautifully balanced palate. The Chardonnay provides a crispness and a backbone of acidity, which is perfectly complemented by the lush, silky mouthfeel imparted by the Viognier. Flavors of lemon zest, apricot, and a touch of tropical fruit dance on the tongue, leading to a long, satisfying finish with a hint of minerality.
Food Pairing: Elevating the Dining Experience
This blend is a versatile companion to a wide range of dishes. Its bright acidity and rich texture make it an excellent match for seafood, particularly grilled shrimp, scallops, or a buttery lobster tail. It also pairs wonderfully with creamy pasta dishes, roasted chicken, and soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert.
For those seeking a more adventurous pairing, try it with a spicy Thai curry or a tangy citrus salad; the wine’s balance of freshness and richness will beautifully complement the bold flavors.
The Winemaking Process: Crafting Perfection
The journey to creating this blend begins in the vineyard, where the grapes are carefully selected at the
peak of ripeness. The Chardonnay grapes are chosen for their balance of acidity and flavor, while the Viognier grapes are picked for their aromatic intensity.
In the winery, each varietal is fermented separately to preserve its unique characteristics. The Chardonnay is fermented in a combination of stainless steel and neutral oak barrels, enhancing its complexity and texture. The Viognier, on the other hand, is fermented in only stainless steel to retain its vibrant aromatics.
Once fermentation is complete, he carefully blends the two varietals, tasting and adjusting until the perfect balance is achieved. The wine is then aged for several months to allow the flavors to meld and mature, resulting in a blend that is greater than the sum of its parts.
A Wine for All Occasions
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this Chardonnay and Viognier blend L’Espoir is a wine that will elevate any moment. Its elegance, complexity, and approachable style make it a perfect choice for both seasoned wine lovers and those new to the world of wine.
In every sip, you’ll find the dedication, creativity, and passion that went into crafting this unique blend. It’s more than just a wine—
it’s a celebration of the art of winemaking and the beauty of blending two distinct varieties into one harmonious experience.
1800 Fray Rd, Ruckersville, VA 22968 (434) 989-9115 montifalcovineyard.com
PRINCE MICHEL VINEYARDS
Symbius
During the month of December celebrate with Prince Michel’s Symbius! A blend of classic Bordeaux varietals, Symbius is a lightly oaked and complex and medium bodied red blend. Unveiling a bouquet of dark berries with hints of cedar and wild violets. Symbius has a velvet like texture and showcases exceptional tannic structure with a lingering finish. Pair this iconic blend with hearty meals of grilled or roasted meats such as beef, lamb or wild game.
Discover Prince Michel Vineyard and Winery, an iconic East Coast estate. Family and pet-friendly, it’s of the oldest and largest wineries in the Commonwealth. Also, home to Tap 29 Brew Pub, serving local craft brews and delicious pub-style food seven days a week. Located in the heart of Virginia Wine Country, our elegant winery on Route 29 between Charlottesville and Washington DC offers wine tastings, tours, shopping, and scenic picnic spots daily from 11am.
At Prince Michel Indulge in a spectrum of wines, from luxurious craft picks such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Manseng, to distinctive options like our Sweet White Reserve from our Rapidan River series. Don’t miss our crowdfavorite Decadence Chocolate or a refreshing wine slushie for a delightful twist. We have something to offer for every palate!
Don’t miss our Holiday Open House with a visit from Santa on Saturday December 7 th , from 12-4!
Live Music every Friday – Sunday! (Music lineup on our website)
Friday 5-8 p.m.
Saturday 1-4 & 5-8
Sunday 1-5 p.m.
Open 7 days a Week at 11 a.m.
154 Winery Lane, Leon, VA 22725 (540) 547-3707 • www.princemichel.com
A Woman-Owned Business
REVALATION VINEYARDS
Mulled Wine
There is nothing better to warm you on a cold winter’s day in the mountains than a hot aromatic mug of mulled wine. Made with our own Radiant Rosé and a custom blend of spices, this mulled wine is the perfect balance of sweet and spicy. Enjoy it by the mug with a mini Belgian waffle or take a bottle home to enjoy by the fire.
Until January 5th - Exhibition of artwork Nancy West.
December Hours: Friday 12pm to Sunset; Saturday 12pm to 6pm; Sunday 12pm to 5pm;
Monday and Thursday by reservation only. Closed December 23 – January 2.
2710 Hebron Valley Road, Madison, VA 22727 540-407-1236 www.revalationvineyards.com
VERITAS
2016 Scintilla
The aroma and flavors are extremely fresh and crisp, reminiscent of acidic fruits such as lemon, green apple and pear, accented by a touch of yeast and toasted brioche. The finish is clean, long and showing beautiful acidity which is heightened by creamy overtones. Scintilla is the perfect holiday addition to your table for dinner, parties, or just because!
Cyber Week Deals:
$40 Chardonnay Duo: Chardonnay lovers rejoice, this deal is a steal and is only around for a limited time! Get both of our Chardonnay bottles for a low price of $40— that’s more than 25% off this fantastic white wine duo. Our
2021 Saddleback Chardonnay is medium-bodied and layered with ripe tree fruits, soft impressions of spice, and a backbone of minerality. In contrast, the 2023 Reserve Chardonnay is barrel-aged in oak and fills the mouth with a fullbodied, luxurious feeling of depth and complexity, and a finish that lingers with memories of apples and custard. Both are the perfect pairings for your holiday dishes!
Reserve Reds Duo for $75: Fans of our fuller-bodied reds and reserve wines can take home this duo or have it shipped directly to you for $75! Enjoy our 2022 Petit Verdot, aged for 16 months in 80% new French oak, adding to the complexity and integration of the smooth and assertive tannins, while lingering into a long and sumptuous finish. Followed up by our flagship of Veritas red blends, the 2022 Reserve is made through an intense sampling process of all the barrels in the cellar to decide the perfect master blends. The 2022 vintage was fabulous for Cabernet Franc; therefore, it sits in the leading seat of this wine—50% Cabernet Fran, 29% Merlot, and 21% Petit Verdot. Drink now or age beautifully until 2037!
*This offer is available online until midnight EST and inside the Tasting Room until 5 p.m. Sunday, December 8, 2024. Original value for Chardonnay Duo: $54. Original value for Reserve Red Duo: $95. This offer is not eligible for additional promotions or discounts.
Upcoming Events:
Veritas Illuminated Walking Light Trail: Open now through January
4, 2025, join us for the third annual Veritas Illuminated! This holiday season, we are back and brighter than ever, celebrating 25 years of Veritas. The grove and wines of Veritas will come alive, sparkling with lights and decorations. The walking path will be open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights throughout the holiday season. Extended hours December 19th - 30th. Tickets are purchases for timed entry to help manage the number of guests on the trail at one time.
December 20th: Christmas Carols with Waynesboro Choral Society from 6-8 pm, Back for the third year in a row, Veritas is excited to welcome back the Waynesboro Choral Society as they serenade us with all of your favorite holiday hymns and songs. Entry into the Tasting Room to enjoy the singing is free, tickets for Veritas Illuminated are required for entry.
December 31st: New Year’s Eve Masked Ball, 7:00 pm - 1:30 am, Ring in 2025 at Veritas with a decadent five-course wine-paired dinner, dancing, and celebration! Gather your friends, masquerade masks, black tie attire, and dancing shoes for a memorable way to welcome the New Year. After the midnight toast, enjoy a hearty breakfast buffet to close out the festivities. This ball is open to the public, and tickets are selling fast, be sure to buy yours early! View the menu and more details at our website at www.veritaswines.com.
151 Veritas Ln, Afton, VA 22920 (540) 456-8000
SUDOKU
Complete the grid so that every row, column, and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively.
#1
Centers
BY MATT JONES
ACROSS
1. “___: The Hands of Fate” (“MST3K” classic)
6. Helpers, briefly
11. Relay section
14. Dangly throat thing
15. Antique photo tone
16. “___ just figured it out”
17. Portable brain?
19. Outburst
20. Bigger than big
21. 1967 spelled-out #1 hit
23. Jackie’s second married name
25. Microscopic
26. Arouse, as curiosity
29. Little kid
30. Progressive character
31. Color in the AtlÈtico Madrid logo
32. Haunted house noise
33. Spock’s home planet
36. “Annabel Lee” poet
37. Keep up
39. Raw mineral
40. Certain ticket buyers
42. 1,000-plus-year realm, for short
43. “Hook” sidekick
44. ___ de parfum
45. Feeder user
46. “People tell me ...”
47. H.S. exams
49. Glow
51. Wedding cake specification
53. Bagel varieties
57. Live mascot of the Bulldogs
58. Dub some DJ turntablism over a Pixar movie?
60. “I finally made it through ___ school” (“Like a Surgeon” opener)
61. Actress Watts
62. Catherine who played Moira Rose
63. “___ XING”
64. Eye-related
65. “Grand” mountain
DOWN
1. G.H. ___ (name on champagne bottles)
2. Converse competitor
3. “Sister Act” group
4. Someone wise beyond their years, it’s said
5. Nicole Kidman’s role in “Moulin Rouge!”
6. Hazardous fireproofing material
7. Sun. lecture
8. Budget airline that filed for bankruptcy in late 2024
9. Fork points
10. Sinks under pressure
11. Your future?
12. Boot out
13. California art museum, with “the”
18. Eggs in a lab
22. Dispensar y unit
24. Placated
26. Largest of the Three Bears
27. Polo shirt producer
28. Line up for first dibs using the plus sign?
30. A good time (hopefully had by all)
32. City transit
33. “La ___ en rose”
34. Measure of coverage
35. ___-do-well
37. “Rugrats” father
38. Skilled at sculpture, perhaps
41. “The ___ of Us”
43. Encase, as a sword
45. Bird in a Monty Python sketch
46. Summer complaint
47. Baffle
48. “Shucks, stop it!”
49. Quickly review
50. Agcy. spawned by the Manhattan Project
52. “Money ___ object”
54. Medieval defense feature
55. Word on Dutch coins
56. Bridge section
59. “What ___, made of money?”
#5
By Rob Brezsny
Capricorn
(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Since 1985, musician David Gilmour has led Pink Floyd. The band has sold over 250 million records. He’s in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in both the U.K. and the U.S. But my favorite thing about Gilmour is that he’s a passionate activist who has crusaded for animal rights, environmentalism, poverty, and human rights. A few years ago, he auctioned off 120 of his guitars, raising over $21 million for an environmentalist charity. In accordance with astrological omens, I propose we make him one of your inspirational role models in 2025, Capricorn. May he mobilize you to use your stature and clout to perform an array of good works that are of service to your world.
Aquarius
(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Aquarian author Virginia Woolf extolled the virtues of cultivating a supple soul that thrives on change. She pledged to be relentless in her commitment to be authentically herself and not succumb to groupthink. I recommend you make these two of your featured themes in 2025. To inspire your efforts, I will quote her radical perspective at length: “Movement and change are the essence of our being; rigidity is death; conformity is death: let us say what comes into our heads, repeat ourselves, contradict ourselves, fling out the wildest nonsense, and follow the most fantastic fancies without caring what the world does or thinks or says.”
Pisces
(Feb. 19-March 20): In 1992, two friends promised each other that if either of them ever won the lottery, they would share it with the other. Twenty-eight years later, that’s exactly what happened. In 2020, Thomas Cook bought a ticket that turned out to be the winner of the Powerhouse jackpot in Wisconsin. He called Joseph Feeney with the good news. After paying taxes, both men were $5.7 million richer. I am not predicting the exact same sequence for your future, Pisces. But like Cook and Feeney, I expect you will glean pleasing rewards generated from seeds planted in the past.
Aries
(March 21-April 19): In 2025, I would love for you to specialize in making new con-
FREE WILL ASTROLOGY Sagittarius
(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): In Japanese, the word for “frog” sounds similar to the word meaning “to return.” That’s one reason frogs have been lucky in some circles of Japanese culture. They symbolize the blessing that occurs when travelers return home safely, or when health is restored, or when spent money is replenished. I bring this to your attention, Sagittarius, because I suspect 2025 will be a time when satisfying and enjoyable returns will be a key theme. Consider keeping the likeness of a lovable frog in your living space.
nections and deepening your existing connections. I hope you will summon extra creativity and panache as you regularly blend your beautiful energies with others’ beautiful energies. I predict you will thrive on linking elements that should be linked but have never been before. What do you think, Aries? Does it sound fun to become a playful master of mixing and combining? Would you enjoy generating splashy unifications that serve your dreams?
Taurus
(April 20-May 20): “Confidence is 10 percent hard work and 90 percent delusion,” declared Taurus comedian Tina Fey. But I believe you will disprove that assessment in the coming months. The work you do will be unusually replete with grace and dynamism. It will be focused and diligent work, yes, but more importantly, it will be smart work that’s largely free of delusion. That’s why I’m inclined to revise Fey’s formula for your sake. In 2025, your brimming levels of confidence will be primarily due to your fine, conscientious, effective work.
Gemini
(May 21-June 20): In the 1960s, a Swedish journalist tried an experiment. He wanted to see if art critics could distinguish between abstract paintings made by skilled artists and those created by a 4-year-old chimpanzee whose pseudonym was Pierre Brassau. Surprise! Many of the critics treated all the paintings with equal respect. One even gave special praise to Pierre Brassau, describing his strokes of color as having “the delicacy of a ballet dancer.” I’m authorizing you to unleash your inner Pierre Brassau in the coming months, Gemini. Be an innocent rookie, a newcomer with great instincts, an exuberant amateur who specializes in fun experiments. Do you know what beginner’s mind is? You approach every experience
with zero assumptions or expectations, as if you were seeing everything for the first time.
Cancer
(June 21-July 22): Ohio’s Cuyahoga River used to catch on fire regularly. The cause was pollution. For a hundred years, industries had poured their wastes into the waterway. The surface was often dotted with oil slicks. But after a notorious river fire in 1969, the locals decided to remedy the situation, aided by the newly established Environmental Protection Agency. Today, the Cuyahoga still isn’t 100 percent clean, but it’s far better. It hosts kayaking, fishing, and paddle boarding. I propose we use its rehabilitation as a symbol for you in 2025. You will have welcome opportunities to clean up messes that have lingered for far too long. Please take full advantage of these cosmic invitations to sweep karmic debris out of your life.
Leo
(July 23-Aug. 22): Apple founder Steve Jobs, said, “The people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do.” I propose that you make this one of your mottoes in 2025. More than ever before, you will have exceptional power to transform the environments you share with others. You will have an enhanced ability to revise and reinvigorate the systems and the rules you use. Don’t underestimate your influence during the coming months, Leo. Assume that people will be listening especially closely to your ideas and extra receptive to be affected by you.
Virgo
(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): I will give you four related terms to describe your key motif in 2025: 1. Your Soul’s Code. 2. Your Master Plan. 3. Your Destiny’s Blueprint. 4. Your Mission Statement. All four are rooted in this epic question: What is your overarching purpose here on
Earth, and how are you fulfilling it? The coming months will be a time when you can make dramatic progress in formulating vivid, detailed visions of the life you want to live. You can also undertake robust action steps to make those visions more of a practical reality. I encourage you to write your big-picture, long-range dreams in a special notebook or a file on your tech device. Keep adding to the text throughout the coming months.
Libra
(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): People in India were the first to discover diamonds buried in the earth. Most historians believe it happened in the 4th century BCE. For the next two millennia, India remained the only source of diamonds. Finally, new stashes were found in Brazil in 1725 and in South Africa in the 1870s. Let’s use this 2,000-year gap as a metaphor for your life. I suspect that far too many months have passed since you have located a fresh source of a certain treasure or bounty you crave. That will change in 2025. Here come long-delayed blessings!
Scorpio
(Oct. 23-Nov.21): In my vision of your life in 2025, you will dramatically enhance how togetherness works for you. Below are four questions to help guide your explorations and breakthroughs. 1. Is it feasible to change yourself in ways that enable you to have a more satisfying relationship with romantic love? 2. Will you include your intimate relationships as an essential part of your spiritual path—and vice versa? 3. What work on yourself can you do to heal your old wounds and thereby make yourself a better partner and collaborator? 4. Can you help your best allies to heal their wounds and thereby become better partners and collaborators?
Expanded weekly audio horoscopes and daily text message horoscopes: RealAstrology.com, (877) 873-4888
CLASSIFIEDS
Commonwealth of Virginia VA. CODE § 8.01-316 Charlottesville Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court Commonwealth of Virginia, in re: Z.D. (DOB 2/1/2007)
The object of this suit is to terminate the parental rights in Z.D. (DOB 2/1/2007)
It is ORDERED that the defendant Patricia Dillard, appear at the above-named Court and protect his or her interests on or before January 24, 2025 at 2:30 p.m.
12/5/2024
Areshini Pather DATE JUDGE
Asked and answered
We’ll put just about anyone in The HotSeat—visiting performers, interesting professionals, local tastemakers—as long as they don’t mind answering a few of our hard-hitting questions (asking about a go-to Bodo’s order is the height of journalism, folks). Here are a few of our favorite answers from 2024.
Grad student/lecturer
Chandler Jennings
Most embarrassing moment: A few years ago, I ran into an acquaintance from high school. We chatted for a bit, and then she kind of waved goodbye at me. I didn’t realize that it was a wave and reached out and clasped her hand, interlocking fingers, and we kind of rocked them back and forth for a sec before I disentangled and ran away.
Actress/musician
Schuyler Fisk
Best advice you ever got: same people on the way up that you meet on the way down.”—My mom [Sissy Spacek]
Podcast hosts Mendy St. Ours and Bree Luck
How did you settle on “Well, That Was Awkward” as a title and concept?
Mendy: Pretty much every day, people tell us about something awkward in their lives. Sometimes it’s a small story—like going to a PTA meeting with your skirt tucked into your drawers—or a BIG story, like your ex showing up at your wedding with a clown nose on. Bree: That happened to me.
Local Girl Scouts Penny (age 10) and Beatrice (age 10)
Virginia Film Festival
Artistic Director Ilya Tovbis
Why is supporting the arts important? Especially in our ever-more polarized society, I believe the arts are our best, most honest, and most direct way of connecting to, and understanding, those different from ourselves.
Comedian Brian Regan
What’s something about your job that people would be surprised to learn? I’m not funny every waking moment. And I’m not funny at all when I’m asleep.
Writer, organizer, director
John Gibson
Favorite Charlottesville venue: Various basements, leaky warehouses, overgrown gardens, and fire traps, all long since condemned or torn down, replaced with things
Musician Robert Earl Keen Proudest accomplishment objectively is my two daughters. My oldest—when she was 5—she won the Miss Apple Dumpling Beauty Contest. It knocked Or favorite word:
