C-VILLE Weekly | April 26 - May 2, 2023

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41 Feedback: French pianist joins UVA Jazz Ensemble.

43 Screens: Affleck and Damon drop the ball in Air 49 Sudoku 49 Crossword 50 Free Will Astrology

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THIS WEEK

Hello, Charlottesville! Thank you for reading C-VILLE Weekly. When it comes to living near a large and powerful institution like the University of Virginia, there are plenty of pros and cons. But one bright spot for many in Charlottesville is our easy access to college sports. This town rallies around our highcaliber student-athletes, so we thought it would be fun to profile five who are crushing records and chasing personal goals in their respective sports (p. 20).

4.26.23

Julia Stumbaugh interviewed UVA athletes in track and field, lacrosse, softball, baseball, and swimming for the feature story, looking at their records, their inspirations and aspirations, and even the academic pursuits they work hard at off the field (or out of the water). Ashley Anumba, a discus thrower, set a state record with her first throw of the season. Connor Shellenberger, a lacrosse player, was invited to the U.S. Men’s National Team tryouts, where he met his idols. Softball pitcher Eden Bigham felt the pressure as she worked a no-hitter for the Cavaliers, while baseball player Jake Gelof became Virginia’s all-time home run leader. And swimmer Gretchen Walsh’s backstroke helped the women’s swimming & diving team win its third consecutive NCAA championship (which we covered in March).

It’s inspiring to see these student-athletes succeed and exceed their own expectations for themselves, especially as the end of the school year looms. Who knows what the fall might bring.—Richard DiCicco

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BRIEF

Ellis in NYT

The New York Times points to UVA Board of Visitors member Bert Ellis as an example of rising “anti-woke” education movements. In an article exploring the sharp tension surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, and the deep political divide between education policymakers, writer Stephanie Saul frames America’s larger battle surrounding education policy around Ellis. Ellis has been deeply controversial since his appointment was announced, due to his destruction of “Fuck UVA” signs on the Lawn and co-founding of the DEI-critical Jefferson Council.

Charity pinball

On April 30, Decades Arcade will open its new location downtown with the second annual John Breen Memorial Charity Pinball Tournament for the local Ronald McDonald House. Following a terminal cancer diagnosis in 2021, avid pinball fan John Breen reached out to Decades to create the charity tournament. Breen died in April of 2021 at the age of 54. Decades’ doors will open at 1:30pm, with the tournament beginning at 4pm.

Funding ends early

Funding for the Pathways Community Resource Helpline has run out months earlier than anticipated for residents of Albemarle County. The Helpline program was created during the COVID-19 pandemic to help Charlottesville and Albemarle residents with rent, mortgage, and utilities. While the funds were expected to end with the start of the new fiscal year in July, there is now an unanticipated gap in support for community members in need. Both Charlottesville and Albemarle continue to experience housing crises due to a lack of affordable housing.

PCOB gets new director

Charlottesville interim City Manager Michael Rogers announced the appointment of Inez M. Gonzalez as executive director of the Police Civilian Oversight Board on Monday, April 17.

“We are excited to both welcome Inez to the city and to ensure that our Police Civilian Oversight Board has proper staffing to engage in their work as outlined by our City Council,” says Rogers.

Gonzalez has 28 years of experience in law enforcement, 25 of which were spent with the Newark, New Jersey, police department. Her roles included community services officer, sergeant and internal affairs investigator and domestic violence coordinator, lieutenant and integrity control officer, and commander in the Office of Internal Affairs. She was the first female, Hispanic lieutenant and captain of the department. She then became a regulatory enforcement inspector for the Department of State in the Pennsylvania Bureau of Enforcement and Investigations office.

Gonzalez received her B.A. in criminal justice and homeland security from Grantham University, and underwent training and certification in community and problem-oriented policing at Northwestern University.

“I am genuinely excited to start my new role with the PCOB,” Gonzalez said in a press release.“I look forward to working with the board and other stakeholders to make meaningful changes that will positively impact the citizens of Charlottesville.”

The PCOB aims to “provide objective and independent civilian-led oversight of the Charlottesville Police Department in an effort to enhance transparency and trust, to promote fair and effective policing, and to protect the civil and constitutional rights of the people of the City of Charlottesville,” according to City Council’s website.

Gonzalez officially starts on May 1.

Cheney speaks

Liz Cheney, a former U.S. representative and an incoming UVA professor of practice, spoke with Center for Politics Director Larry Sabato at an April 19 event at Alumni Hall. Cheney talked about January 6, ongoing election conspiracies, and the grim future of the Republican Party. Despite losing her bid for reelection, the one-time Wyoming congressperson remains a major figure within conservative politics.

In her first public interview since the announcement of her professorship, Cheney largely focused on her

Wheels in motion

PAGE 15

political experience during and following the attack on the U.S. Capitol. She emphasized that the continued promotion of election conspiracies and downplaying of political violence threatens not only the Republican party, but democracy itself.

To prevent another January 6, Cheney said, people must be held accountable for their actions, including Donald Trump. She further called for leaders to be people of character and uphold their oaths of office to ensure this accountability.

“I think I would say Liz Lemon would be the ideal firstyear roommate because she would never bring anyone back to the dorm.”

Tina Fey, at the John Paul Jones Arena April 23, when asked by UVA President Jim Ryan which of her characters would be the best first-year roommate

Inez M. Gonzalez will start as executive director of the Police Civilian Oversight Board on May 1.

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Resident-led redevelopment

Sen. Tim Kaine visits Southwood Mobile Home Park

By Catie Ratliff

Sen. Tim Kaine visited Southwood Mobile Home Park to tour the redevelopment site and meet with residents and Habitat for Humanity on April 21.

Located just south of Charlottesville, the Southwood community is home to more than 1,500 people, and spans over 100 acres. After experiencing extreme sewage problems and pressures from law enforcement, Southwood’s previous owner sold the property to Habitat for Humanity of Greater Charlottesville in 2007.

Since the purchase, Habitat has worked in collaboration with residents to redevelop the area with minimal displacement. By moving in phases, residents have been able to stay in their homes during the development.

Amid the ongoing construction, the neighborhood continues to thrive. The renovated Boys & Girls Club sits at the heart of the community, and multiple residents run businesses from their trailers and in the green area surrounding the mobile home park. Many families have lived at Southwood for decades; even temporarily relocating residents outside of the park would disrupt their lives and the community.

“It’s almost never the same people who come back, who got displaced, “ Kaine said while touring Phase I of the construction. The senator praised the redevelopment process at Southwood: “The model here is in this sizable project, to do it in phases, where you never have to displace anyone.”

Housing has been a major focus of Kaine’s political agenda since the beginning of his career. As a former fair housing attorney,

Kaine has decades of experience in the field, and is a longtime champion of affordable housing. At Southwood, the senator was able to see direct results of his housing policies and hard-won federal funding.

During his visit, Kaine spoke with residents and Habitat for Humanity leaders in Spanish and English. One Southwood resident, a leader in the development, met with Kaine at the entryway to her nearly completed new home. Tearfully, she spoke about how the project has allowed her and her family the opportunity to obtain their dreams of homeownership.

“The most impressive thing is talking to the residents about the way they have tried to

design this and then work with the county officials to make it happen,” Kaine said. “Again and again they were talking about ‘sueños’: You have enabled us to achieve our dreams.”

Habitat for Humanity’s work at Southwood is remarkable for its model of redevelopment. Instead of a traditional path, which presents a plan to the city with minimal community input, Southwood’s residents have been deeply involved in their neighborhood’s improvement since the beginning. The resident-led model of redevelopment demonstrates the potential of non-traditional housing projects.

Unlike a majority of affordable housing projects, Habitat for Humanity is focusing on

constructing houses rather than apartments at Southwood. This has allowed residents to select the design of their homes, and provides an accessible pathway to homeownership.

Kaine said it was this unique emphasis on homeownership that drove his visit as he works on another housing bill in the Senate. There are a multitude of state and federally subsidized apartment programs, but a lack of affordable housing efforts that provide a road to ownership.

Locally, rising home prices and a major lack of affordable housing has created a housing crisis. While the city and county have taken steps to improve the situation, a lack of appropriations continues to undermine efforts. Despite the pressing need for affordable housing and resources for lower income residents, projects like the Pathways Community Resource Helpline have run out of funding (see p. 11).

Beyond Charlottesville, housing is a major issue in Virginia and the United States. “As I was traveling around Virginia 10 years ago, housing would be in the top 10 issues, but not the top five,” Kaine said. “As I travel around Virginia now, housing is almost always in the top three.”

“I think what’s [going to] be an example about this project for others is this residentled design,” Kaine said. “And the fact that the county officials were willing … to go with that, and learn and do it.”

Although Southwood’s circumstances are unique, Kaine believes the neighborhood highlights the merit and importance of community driven and responsive redevelopment. “I think other counties and cities can do the same thing.”

TIM KAINE

Sen. Tim Kaine spoke with development leaders at Southwood Mobile Home Park.

The cyclists are back

Jefferson Cup Road Race returns

By Kristin O’Donoghue

The Jefferson Cup, a professional and amateur USA Cycling road race that is one of the longestrunning races in the United States, returns to the area on Sunday, April 30. The Jeff Cup is a 10-mile loop that takes racers on rolling country roads through estates and vineyards, and “has been a staple of the Charlottesville cycling community for over three decades,” says Sully Beck, race director and former president of UVA Club Cycling. “We want the Jeff Cup to continue to inspire riders, just as it has for countless years.”

The event has evolved since Ruth Stornetta first came up with the idea in 1991.

“She always had a ‘racer first’ mentality, so went out of her way to ensure a great course with proper road closures, wheel cars, results services, even if all of these things meant more work from an organization perspective,” says Andy Guptill, endurance team director for the Miller School of Albemarle. “Participants saw that, and turnout increased each year as word spread about the high-quality road race.”

“As a race director, proper permitting with the police and VDOT is the first major hurdle,” says Beck. “The financial burden and uncertainty were the main reasons that prevented the return of the Jeff Cup in recent years. As a collegiate club, we were willing to invest substantial energy to take on such a risk.”

UVA Club Cycling has done much of the organizing for the event, which is also sponsored by the Charlottesville Racing Club and Blue Ridge Cyclery. Proceeds from the race will go to Community Bikes,

a nonprofit local bike shop that seeks to make cycling accessible in Charlottesville by providing free refurbished bicycles to kids and adults in need.

“Hosting the Atlantic Collegiate Cycling Championship [in which the UVA team competes] … and raising funds for Com munity Bikes all in one weekend promises for a truly great event,” says Madison Gal lagher, president of UVA Club Cycling.

This year marks the first year the race will finish with the Blenheim hill climb, a leg-burning ascent that will likely make for an exciting finish (the race begins and ends at Blenheim Vineyards).

“Blenheim is happy to support the event, and is eager to make the finish line as invit ing to spectators as possible,” says Tracey Love, marketing and events manager for Blenheim, one of the Jeff Cup’s sponsors (the winery will provide parking for racers and spectators, and an embankment for seating to watch the race).

Former professional road racing champion (and Monticello High School grad) Ben King got his start at the 2008 Jeff Cup, and the race had a major impact on him.

“I was lucky to grow up in a place with such amazing roads for cycling,” says King. “Now, hundreds of thousands of racing miles later, I can say with authority that it has all of the features that make a great course.”

“I still love the sport, but my relationship to it has changed,” adds King, who retired from professional cycling last year. “I love watching the races, but am personally less focused on performance and more focused on the freedom, community, fitness, and feelings I get on a bike.”

For more information about the race, go to racejeffcup.com.

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Jeff

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loop that takes racers on

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2:00pm Mack McLellan: “Real Life DEI Navigation”

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Sly Mata: “Everybody Hurts: the Accumulating Mental Health Impact of Systemic Racism and Racial Violence”

Cynthia Murray: “Being the Only ________ in the Room”

Reception to follow from 5:00-6:00 pm $20 per session or $50 for all 3 sessions

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Miracle Music: Jazz as medicine for body and soul

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“Drums are the soul of Jazz music, “ says legendary local jazz trumpeter John D’earth, playing drums himself as he talked about a benefit concert he and the UVA Jazz Ensemble are doing for the Jefferson Area Board for Aging (JABA) this week,”...it’s the environment the music takes place in.”

For decades, the environment for that environment has been Miller’s on Thursday nights, where D’earth and those he’s taught, mentored, and collaborated with have played late into the night.

“Nothing lights up more parts of the brain than music,” D’earth told me in 2013. “Music is good for people, good for individual health and the community, and we need to make sure that everyone has access to it.”

A decade later, D’earth has become a JABA Board member, recognizing the importance of its mission to help older adults, caregivers, and families navigate the challenges that come with age, and one of the first things he did was organize a benefit concert.

“JABA is such an effective, powerful organization that helps so many people,” says D’earth. “And I thought, how great would it be to get the UVA Jazz Ensemble at the Paramount to support JABA with special guests.”

As musicians like D’earth have recognized intuitively, and researchers have determined scientifically, music really does light up the brain. Researchers at John Hopkins University have had dozens of jazz performers and rappers improvise music while lying down inside an fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging) machine to watch and see which areas of their brains light up. The brain has to do a lot of computing to make sense of music, whether you are playing or listening, and researchers have found that music can reduce stress, boost memory and mood, help summon energy and inspiration, and even connect people more deeply with their own bodies and the world around them.

“Music has a very healing energy,” says legendary jazz drummer Phil Young in a short film called “The Healing Power of Jazz.”

“It deals with a force. It’s vibrations,” says Young.

In New York City, while D’earth and company are playing at Miller’s on Thursday nights, Young and his fellow musicians are playing at Patrick’s Place in Harlem at the same time. Young’s gig was at the Lenox Saphire for years, but the famous jazz venue closed at the end of 2022.

Young describes the self-healing that comes with playing music, and the way it can heal others. He tells a story about playing at Walter Reed Hospital during the Vietnam War and how a depressed and wounded solider who’d lost his legs, his sight, and his hearing had a nurse wheel him to where they were playing after he felt the vibrations of the drums through his bedposts.

“He wanted to be close to it,” says Young. “Even though he could not hear and could not see, and he could not walk....he still had that sense of life.”

Last year, Justin Freed, an 85-yearold filmmaker from Boston, released a short film called “Jazz Saved My Life: a story of Art and Healing.” It’s a personal story about healing from family trauma, testimonies from other musicians about the art form, and a grateful love letter to the African-American musicians who created it, despite considerable obstacles, and the musicians of all races who continue to keep it alive.

“The truth is,” says Freed, “jazz is a miracle.”

Jazz Digs JABA, featuring D’earth, the UVA Jazz Ensemble, and French pianist Damien Groleau, who grew up in Charlottesville’s sister city of Besançon, France, takes place this Friday, April 28, at the Paramount Theater at 7 pm. All proceeds will go to JABA services and programs.

David McNair handles communications, media relations, and social media efforts for JABA.

TOP OF THEIR GAME

For fans who enjoy pointing to their televisions and saying, “I watched them back when they played for UVA,” this University of Virginia athletics season is required viewing. From marking national bests and setting school records, to going on championship streaks to taking teams to the postseason, athletes are making UVA history this year—and they’re not planning to stop when they leave Grounds. Here’s a look at memorable seasons from five Virginia athletes who, based on their performances this spring, will be players to watch in the future.—Julia

Stumbaugh

Ashley Anumba Track & Field

A discus throw takes place in the span of a second. During that second, second-year law school student Ashley Anumba has dozens of muscle movements to think about.

“A misconception about throwing is that it’s all arms, but it’s a total body movement from your legs up to your hands,” says Anumba.

Anumba has to make sure her hips are open enough for her turn. She must turn her head as she uses her glutes to power her twist to the front, while keeping her back precisely angled so her release sends the 2.2-pound disc flying in the right direction.

She might think over each of these movements while practicing, but in competition the throw is seamless. After thousands of repetitions, her body knows exactly what to do.

That’s not to say that Anumba’s throw isn’t still evolving. This fall, new UVA throwing coach Steve Lemke helped her see the process differently. Instead of leaning on her natural elegance in the ring, she began deliberately using each muscle to its maximum strength during the wind.

That’s part of why she was able to set a Virginia discus record with her first throw of the 2023 season.

At North Carolina State’s Raleigh Relays on March 24, Anumba threw the discus 59.37 meters, or 194 feet and nine inches. That’s the fifth time she has set a new school standard since she joined the team in 2022—and it was with a distance 2.87 meters (nine feet, five inches) farther than her first record-breaking throw.

“When you reach a certain level of expertise, the jumps in distance or time progressions … get smaller, because you’re already reaching that peak,” says Anumba. “So, the fact that I was able to bypass all of that and still, even though I’m on a high level, make such a big jump, that’s been amazing. Evidently, something is going right with this technique change.”

Anumba arrived at UVA as a graduate transfer from the University of Pennsylvania, holding a degree in public health and two extra years of athletics eligibility thanks to COVID-19. She was looking for a school that would support

her simultaneous pursuit of a law degree and the world standard discus throw of 63.5 meters (208 feet, three inches). She found that university in Charlottesville.

“This team, this school, has shown me that I shouldn’t be afraid of pursuing goals that are scary, or things that I want in my life that may be far away,” says Anumba. “People will help me get there.”

After taking on the ACC and NCAA championships this spring, Anumba wants to qualify for the World Athletics Championships in Budapest in August. Her ultimate goal is to represent Nigeria, where most of her extended family lives, in the 2024 Paris Olympics.

“I’m chipping away at it, and more than ever, I see it as more of a reality than a possibility,” says Anumba.

This is a future Anumba never imagined while playing soccer as a child. While her older sister Michelle, now head athletic trainer for the WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces, was setting shot put records at Duke, Ashley was busy dreaming of a future in the National Women’s Soccer League. She joined track only as a part of injury recovery in eighth grade.

It was not until a high school coach told her that her discus talent could someday earn her a college scholarship— and even an Olympics bid—that Anumba began trying to become one of the best in the world.

“I never expected to be as good as what I am now,” says Anumba. “Seeing the vision that my high school coach had for me, it’s absolutely crazy. I’m believing everything he said, because it’s becoming true.”

honors are stuff like that, where your teammates trust you and want you to lead them,” says Shellenberger.

When Connor Shellenberger was 9 years old, he watched his hometown University of Virginia triumph over Maryland in the 2011 NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Championship.

Ten years later, the Cavaliers took on the Terrapins in a 2021 title rematch—but this time, Shellenberger was on the field.

The redshirt first-year scored four times to help Virginia to a 17-16 championship victory.

“I don’t know if it’s hit me, to be honest,” says Shellenberger. “I’m hoping one day, once I’m done playing lacrosse, it’ll be able to fully sink in. It was crazy. It happened so fast.”

For his 14 goals and 10 assists in four 2021 playoff games, Shellenberger was the second rookie in NCAA history to be named the tournament’s most outstanding player. He finished the following season as a finalist for the Tewaaraton Award, handed to the most outstanding player in college lacrosse, after leading UVA with 76 points and 44 assists in 16 games in 2022.

Shellenberger tries not to focus on accolades. He says he models his game after Steele Stanwick, the last Cavalier to receive the Tewaaraton in 2011, who he always felt cared more about team wins than stats chasing.

That might be part of why on May 23 of last year, the day after the Terrapins knocked Virginia out of the 2022 NCAA quarterfinals, the team voted to make Shellenberger captain.

“You’re always thinking about winning games and winning championships and stuff like that, but some of the bigger

Shellenberger’s dominant 2022 season earned him an invite to U.S. Men’s National Team tryouts last summer. There, Shellenberger was able to pick the brains of players he’d grown up watching, like Cornell’s Rob Pannell and Princeton’s Tom Schreiber. Both are now professional lacrosse players.

“I was seeing all the guys that I had grown up watching on TV,” says Shellenberger. “Being around them off the field and talking to them, and also on the field and going against them— it’s tough to have that confidence at first, to feel like you belong, because you’ve seen all the great things they’ve done.”

Shellenberger is starting to believe he belongs as he gets closer to his goal of making the national team—and to leading UVA back to the national championships.

Although the team entered the 2023 season without Matt Moore, Shellenberger’s offensive partner and UVA’s all-time points leader, Virginia offense has been led by Shellenberger and a squad of fifth-year veterans.

Xander Dickson has become one of the top scorers in college lacrosse, Petey LaSalla is one of the best in the country on draws and Payton Cormier’s 145 career goals rank No. 2 in UVA history. All three were wearing orange and navy blue for both Virginia’s 2019 and 2021 championships.

Now, Shellenberger is looking to get a second ring of his own as he finishes out the season with his family watching from the stands of Klöckner Stadium.

“Thinking back 10 years ago, I was going to the game with them as a fan, and now I get to look over and they’re standing in the same place that we stood,” says Shellenberger. “It’s kind of a full circle.”

Connor Shellenberger Lacrosse

MATT RILEY UVA ATHLETICS COMMUNICATIONS

MATT RILEY / UVA ATHLETICS COMMUNICATIONS

Gretchen Walsh Swimming

Heading into the 2023 NCAA Women’s Swimming and Diving Championships in March, Gretchen Walsh was very familiar with the American record for the 100-yard backstroke. After all, she was there, just one quarter of a second behind, when North Carolina State’s Katharine Berkoff set the 48.74-seconds record last year.

That’s why the UVA second-year knew she had broken it the moment she touched the wall and saw 48.26 on the clock.

That thrilling moment would have been unimaginable to Walsh just a few years ago, when she was a Tennessee high school student, doing backstroke just for fun. It wasn’t until she arrived in Charlottesville that coaches convinced her to compete.

Walsh says UVA swimming coach Todd DeSorbo calls her underwater abilities her “secret weapon.” She worked on maximizing it by training to hold her breath under water through punishing sets, until not breathing became second nature.

“Once I started doing that, my backstroke career really took off, and obviously now here I am with the American record,” says Walsh. “I never, going into college, thought I’d be saying that, but here I am, and I couldn’t be happier.”

Walsh’s 100-yard backstroke win, in addition to a victory in the 100-yard freestyle and a role in four of the Cavaliers’ five relay triumphs, helped the Virginia women’s swimming & diving team win its third consecutive NCAA championship on March 19.

The rest of the Cavaliers’ six individual titles went to Walsh’s training partner, senior Kate Douglass, who set American records in the 200-yard individual medley, 100-yard butterfly and 200-yard breaststroke, and Walsh’s sister, junior Alex Walsh, who claimed a title in the 400-yard medley.

Both swimmers have been instrumental in pushing Walsh since she arrived at UVA last year. Like Walsh, both have set American records. And like Walsh strives to do, both medaled at the 2020 Summer Olympics.

Now, Alex is waiting to get her Olympic rings tattoo until Gretchen gets hers, too.

Walsh has dreamed of the Olympics ever since she and Alex swam together as children. In fourth grade, when the class was told to create self-portraits, Walsh drew herself standing on the Olympic blocks.

Her performance in the 2020 Olympic trials, the summer before her first year at UVA, fell short of qualifying. She thinks that could be different in 2024.

“Since coming into UVA, having this change and this new environment, I feel a lot more confident going into next summer, in my abilities and my training, all around,” says Walsh. “I think it’s definitely feasible.”

Next season, Walsh has a long list of individual goals. She wants to hit 20.5 seconds in the 50-yard freestyle and 47 seconds in the 100-yard backstroke, both events in which she has already set the national standard. She wants to add another American record by beating 45.56 seconds in the 100-yard freestyle. It’s a lot of numbers to keep track of, but that’s no problem for a finance major and math minor.

“I always find myself counting my strokes, or my kicks, or how many breaths I have to take,” says Walsh. “I think a lot of swimming is numbers, and that’s one of the reasons I probably liked math—and swimming, too.”

Most of all, Walsh wants to help UVA become the first school to win four straight NCAA swimming & diving titles since Stanford did it in 1995.

“I think we can do it again, so we’ll see,” says Walsh. “We’re creating a legacy, and that’s one of the coolest things about this whole experience.”

MATT RILEY / UVA ATHLETICS COMMUNICATIONS

“I think a lot of swimming is numbers, and that’s one of the reasons I probably liked math—and swimming, too.”

GRETCHEN WALSH

Jake Gelof Baseball

When third-year Jake Gelof fouled a ball straight back in his first at-bat against the University of Richmond on April 11, the crowd let out a collective sigh.

They, like Gelof, knew what was at stake. His 37 runs tied E.J. Anderson (1995-98) for the career record by a Cavalier, and his next homer would make school history.

In the fifth inning, Gelof returned to the plate. This time, he put the ball over the fence at far left field to become Virginia’s all-time leader in home runs during the Cavaliers’ 18-0 shutout of the Spiders.

“Once I saw it go, I was really excited,” says Gelof.

It’s a record Gelof never expected to hit during his rookie season, when he was seeing limited at-bats. It wasn’t until the 2021 postseason that he showed the Cavaliers what his swing could do.

Truist Field is famous for its long balls: Three days before UVA took the field to face Notre Dame in the 2021 ACC Tournament quarterfinals, the University of Louisville set an ACC championship record there for home runs, with seven in a single game.

It’s no wonder Gelof sent his first collegiate homer over the fence at Truist, and helped Virginia move on to the tournament’s semifinals.

“I was batting a little low in the lineup, and balls were flying for guys in the beginning of the lineup,” says Gelof. “Once I hit it, I hadn’t had that feeling in a while … that feeling of getting a ball out of the stadium, that was a great feeling.”

The key to hitting 37 more home runs in the 108 games since that day, Gelof says, has been not changing too much, staying in his approach and remaining confident each time he steps up to the plate.

That strategy helped him become a key part of the lineup as UVA went to the 2021 College World Series.

After starting every game his second season, and ranking second in the ACC with 81 RBIs, Gelof earned an invite to the 2022 USA Baseball Collegiate National Team Training Camp, where he bumped elbows with other rising stars in American baseball.

Tips from the camp’s nationally ranked players and coaches have helped Gelof lead the Cavs in RBIs and home runs, as he helps power them to their third straight NCAA postseason in 2023—and so did off-season training with his brother, Zack, who started every game for UVA from 2019 to 2021, until he was selected by the Oakland Athletics in the 2021 MLB draft.

He’s exactly where Gelof wants to be someday.

“Having such a great person to come to, who has had success at the levels that I aspire to play at … just to have someone to talk to all the time that you look up to, is very special,” says Gelof.

Eden Bigham Softball

The day before the UVA softball team boarded a plane to Houston for its February 9 season opener against Lamar University, freshman pitcher Eden Bigham got the news she would be starting.

It was a moment she had spent every day that fall preparing for. She had completely reworked her changeup. She had learned not to rely on the rise ball, her go-to in high school.

She also toughened her mental game, which might have been the most important skill waiting in her arsenal as she stepped onto the mound for her collegiate debut.

“You have the ball in your hands, you have every possible chance that something can happen, so it creates a lot of excitement,” says Bigham. “At the same time, it is also a lot of pressure.”

Bigham made it through five innings without Lamar registering a hit. Someone mentioned the forbidden, jinx-ridden word—“no-hitter”—between frames, but she shook it off.

“It’s in the back of my head, but I know if I focus too much on it, then I’m not going to go perform well,” says Bigham. “I was definitely thinking about it, but I didn’t let it change anything.”

In the top of the sixth, two Lamar runners got on base on a walk and an error. Bigham remained cool.

With her dad, the coach of her travel team, and her mom, a former college pitcher who was named to the Liberty Athletics Hall of Fame in 2017, watching in the crowd, Bigham retired the next six batters in order.

She ended her debut with a 5-0 shutout win, nine strikeouts and the first solo no-hitter recorded by a Cavalier since Ally Frei in 2019.

“My team was so happy for me, and having them there was really exciting,” says Bigham. “I was nervous, but (it showed) I could come out and compete with college girls.”

Bigham has continued to prove that throughout the season. Her ERA ranks her among this season’s top 15 freshman college pitchers. She has started in more than a third of the Cavaliers’ outings and earned seven shutouts.

Last year, UVA softball came to the edge of qualification for the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2010.

Bigham is part of a strong first-year class that looks ready to end the decade-long drought, and bring this Virginia softball back to the NCAA postseason.

It is not a long drive from Bigham’s hometown of Rustburg, Virginia, to Palmer Park, but there is a significant distance between the skill level of the opponents she faces in Charlottesville and those she challenged in high school. Having old travel ball teammates like her roommate Jade Hylton, who leads UVA with 10 home runs, has helped Bigham adjust.

Growing certainty from Bigham on the mound and Hylton at the plate has helped Virginia softball put up the program’s highest single-season win total in 13 years.

“In high school and travel, if something didn’t go my way, it would tear me to pieces,” says Bigham. “But I definitely know these girls have my back, and if I give up runs, they can come back and score them … my confidence has definitely gotten better since I’ve been here.”

MATT RILEY

MATT RILEY / UVA ATHLETICS COMMUNICATIONS

Enjoy easy first floor living in this beautiful, betterthan-new villa. Through the front door, you’ll be greeted by a lovely foyer. As you turn the corner,you’ll experience an open concept with 10’ ceilings & LVP floors flowing throughout. The upgraded kitchen has a large island with plenty of counter space & a bar to socialize while the at-home chef is whipping up a delicious meal. The dining area has plenty of room for a large table. The spacious living room is filled with natural light from the extra windows only available in an end unit. Step out onto the patio to enjoy grilling out with your friends. Your master suite gives plenty of room for all your furniture while delivering a spalike bathroom with tiled shower & double vanities. It’s capped off with a huge master closet. Also on the first floor is the laundry room. $525,000

2107 SUNDOWN PLACE 3501 GLENAIRE DRIVE UNDER CONTRACT IN 3 DAYS!

and socialize while enjoying the view of the mountains. Upstairs you will find your master suite with walk-in closet, spa-like en suite bath, and your private balcony with those mountain views. $450,000

The Antioch Glen neighborhood is one of the best kept secrets with large lots and a neighborhood feel! As you approach the home, you will see a lovely covered front porch perfect for relaxing as you greet your guests. The two story foyer creates an impactful entrance. You can follow the beautiful hardwood floors into the living room and wrap around to the dining room. As you go into the kitchen you will see great cabinet storage and countertop space. The kitchen overlooks a breakfast area and the family room with a gas fireplace and built in cabinetry. Off the family room is a back deck. A fenced portion of the backyard keeps children and pets safe and close while still giving the option of utilizing the rest of the yard. $450,000

Amazing Ivy home is ready for you! Too many upgrades to list here. The main floor has a brand new kitchen perfect for a home chef and open to the dining area to allow socializing. Off the kitchen is a huge screened in porch with an additional open deck perfect for grilling as you overlook the open backyard with plenty of room for play. As you head down the hall you will find two bedrooms with a full bath plus a great multi-purpose room with its own attached bathroom. A few steps up is a true master suite. The giant bedroom has plenty of room for an additional sitting area. The beautifully renovated master bath has a gorgeous tiled shower,soaker tub, and double vanities with cabinetry for storage. There is also a big walk-in closet. $625,000

3216 BERGEN STEET 172 GLEBE LANE

HATTON RIDGE FARM

175 acre grazing farm with 2/3 mile frontage on the James River. Impressive 4-5 bedroom, brick Georgian home, circa 2000 in excellent condition. Fertile James River bottomland for gardens, plus many recreational uses. MLS#632477 $2,495,000 Jim Faulconer, 434.981.0076

MILL HOUSE

Former house of noted local architect Floyd E. Johnson, the Miller’s House has been renovated and expanded. On the banks of Totier Creek, which runs through the property, the house was originally the home of the miller of Dyers Mill. Today, the beautifully and thoughtfully renovated and expanded home is a delightful 5-BR, 3 full and 2 half bath home graced by tall ceilings, cozy rooms, numerous FPs and modern-day kitchen and baths. Guest house, 2-bay garage, pool, equipment shed plus 130 acres of open and wooded land. MLS#639196 $2,745,000 Steve McLean, 434.981.1863

GREENFIELDS FARM

HIDDEN FOX FARM

Embodying the essence of country life! 214+/- acre farm with spacious main residence, 3-car garage with apartment, dependencies & farm buildings. Many agricultural and recreational uses. Easily accessible to Charlottesville, Orange, I-95 & DC region. MLS#636896

$1,675,000 Charlotte Dammann, 434.981.1250

753-acre country estate approximately 25 miles south of Charlottesville. The property showcases a stately southern residence, built circa 1904, extensive equestrian facilities, recreation opportunities, creeks and a pond. MLS#638899 $6,295,000 Steve McLean, 434.981.1863 greenfieldsfarmva.com

10 miles from town, near Free Union, 100+ acres, division rights, NO CONSERVATION EASEMENT! Spectacular Blue Ridge views from many homesites, several barns, stable, 2 ponds, creeks, FANTASTIC offering! MLS#638858

$4,975,000 Jim Faulconer, 434.981.0076

DUDLEY MOUNTAIN ROAD

Unique 88-acre property with 4-BR home. Property includes two-car garage, storage shed/ shop and 3760-sf. multipurpose building. Beautiful mountain and lake views just 4 miles from Charlottesville. MLS#635483 $1,175,000 Jim Faulconer, 434.981.0076

Spacious and meticulously maintained 4-6-bedroom, 5.5 bath Manor home on 57 acres of tranquility. Panoramic views of the Southwest Mountains and winter views of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the west. 6 miles from Charlottesville. MLS#638292 $2,575,000 Jim Faulconer, 434.981.0076

MEADOWLARK FARM

Stunning 22-acre farm, only 12 miles from Charlottesville, features a completely renovated 8,575± finished sf primary residence nestled on a knoll overlooking the pool and the Mechums River and captures a magnificent view of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the distance. Includes 3-BR cottage, 6-stall stable with living accommodations, trailer shed, equipment barn/ shop, and several run-in sheds. A property like this is truly an offering difficult to find and rarely on the market. MLS#640137 $3,195,000 Steve McLean, 434.981.1863

Well constructed home just four miles north of the City. Set on 1.45 acres - great outdoor space for gardens. Home is in need of some renovation, but given quality construction and excellent location, it’s worthy of the investment. MLS#638788 $545,000 Will Faulconer, 434.987.9455

GREEN ACRES

Pastoral views from this 3 BR brick home on 159 acres in Southern Albemarle. Gently rolling meadows, fields and woodland, ideal for farming with fenced pastures, ample water sources, equipment shed & barn. Not under easement and has 4 division rights.

MLS#630428

$1,685,000 Steve McLean, 434.981.1863

K’DEE FARM

STONY POINTE

ARWOOD ROAD

MEADOW FARM

436+ acres in Southern Albemarle! 4 division rights; complete privacy; lush, gently rolling terrain; long road frontage; stream; 3-acre lake; 125-135 acres of open land; mature hardwood forests. Under conservation easement. Owner/agent. MLS#634139 $2,985,000 Steve McLean, 434.981.1863

820 CONDO

Well-designed corner condo consisting of an exceptionally bright great room with high ceilings, ample space for both relaxed living and dining, 1 bed / 1 bath, and inviting private balcony. Views of the Downtown skyline and mountains. MLS#634496 $285,000 Charlotte Dammann, 434.981.1250

SOUTHWIND ESTATES

3 separate parcels with commanding Blue Ridge Mtn. views, level building sites 15 minutes from Charlottesville. Sites have been perked, have wells, and ready for your dream home. MLS#632482 $375,000 (7.8 acres), MLS#632490 $275,000 (2.4 acres), MLS#632487 $175,000 (2.0 acres), Court Nexsen, 646.660.0700

RAGGED MOUNTAIN FARM

Two wonderful estate parcels comprised of 185.01± acres in coveted Ragged Mountain Farm. Excellent elevated building site, complete privacy, and beautiful views. Murray/Henley/Western school district. MLS#621083 $1,895,000 Steve McLean, 434.981.1863

LYNX FARM LANE

Great building lot in Ivy! Over 2.5 acres less than 6 miles to Charlottesville and UVA. Your future dream home could sit on this beautiful, wooded land, the perfect combination of country and city access. Murray Elementary School District. MLS#634897 $165,000 Steve McLean, 434.981.1863

RED HILL

10 miles south of Charlottesville, a beautiful 283 acres, rolling to hilly, mostly wooded tract, borders Walnut Creek Park, with lake and miles of trails. This land has pastures, trails, creeks and a river! Many homesites, NO EASEMENTS. MLS#634310 $1,995,000 Jim Faulconer, 434.981.0076

MURPHY’S CREEK FARM

Wonderful gently rolling parcel of land with just under 26 acres, 18 miles south of Charlottesville. The land is wooded (mostly hardwoods) with an elevated building site, stream/creek, total privacy, and long road frontage. MLS#619394 $229,500 Steve McLean, 434.981.1863

FRAYS MILL

Mostly wooded preservation tract of 81.395 acres next to Frays Mill Subdivision in highly desirable Northern Albemarle. This beautiful gently rolling land has a great, private homesite with Blue Ridge Mt. views, and creek on property. MLS#608509 $995,000 Jim Faulconer, 434.981.0076

GREENTREES

94+ acres 20 minutes from Charlottesville. Originally part of a 188-acre tract, two parcels may be purchased separately or together, with 2 developmental rights each. Mostly maturing pine and very long public road frontage. MLS#635861 $700,000 Tim Michel, 434.960.1124

CROZET AREA

Beautiful building lot of 3.3 acres, less than a mile to Crozet shopping. Mostly in pasture, creek, and elevated homesite with panoramic views of mountains, pond, and surrounding pastoral area. MLS#636349 $450,000 Jim Faulconer, 434.981.0076

EDNAM FOREST

Wonderfully large 1.5+ acre building lot in Ednam Forest. Build your dream home on this elevated, wooded lot located in a single family community, minutes from UVA and within walking distance to Boar’s Head Resort. MLS#598537 $289,500 Steve McLean, 434.981.1863

SIMMONS GAP ROAD

5-acre lot with mature hardwoods. Great opportunity to build with no HOA. Private building site amongst beautiful woods. Located between Free Union and Earlysville but so convenient to Charlottesville & UVA. MLS#621177 $119,000 Charlotte Dammann, 434.981.1250

Coming down

The ruins of a former motel near UVA have been cleared for removal

By Sean Tubbs

For several years, a burned-out husk of a 20th-century motel has remained standing at 140 Emmet St., near one of the main entrances to the University of Virginia. Now, the structure is set to come down.

After a May 2017 fire destroyed the Excel Inn, where Martin Luther King Jr. stayed during his 1963 visit to Charlottesville, owner Vipul Patel quickly filed plans to build the much taller Gallery Court Hotel to provide more rooms in an area where tourism is a major industry.

This was in contrast to UVA’s plan to demolish the five-story Cavalier Inn across the street, to make way for 21st-century buildings as part of the Emmet-Ivy Corridor. The UVA Foundation had bought the inn in June 1998 for $5.6 million, paying $2.5 million over assessment. The last guests checked out in the summer of 2018, and the structure came down soon afterward.

In 2008, an LLC tied to the foundation paid $6 million for the former Econo Lodge a few doors down, and that structure was razed in 2013, though the restaurant on the site remains.

Still believing there was a role for private business to play in serving the needs

of area visitors, Patel applied for a special use permit for additional height to build the 72-room, seven-story Gallery Court Hotel. Council approved the permit in October 2018, but the project has not moved forward.

Something is shifting, though. Patel applied for a demolition permit on March 23, and city officials issued one on April 14.

Patel had no comment at this time.

Is there a market for new rooms? Hotel occupancy rates rebounded relatively quickly after the stay-at-home days early in the pandemic. One in four rooms were empty in April 2020, but use returned to a more typical three in four a year later.

UVA knows there is a market for new rooms.

The University of Virginia Foundation has spent years acquiring properties along Ivy Road for its expansion, several of which have now been taken off the city’s property tax rolls because they have been transferred to the state of Virginia.

Patel’s property is a block away from UVA’s future 214-room hotel and conference center. That’s one of three buildings currently under construction on university-owned land not subject to tax rolls. It’s also a mile’s drive from the new 199-room Forum Hotel, also off the tax rolls, at the Darden School of Business.

Patel isn’t alone in wanting to keep his property from being purchased by UVA or its real estate foundation.

Last week, City Council approved a technical change to the current zoning ordinance that will allow RMD Properties to seek permission to build a large building on a one-acre parcel at the corner of Ivy and Copeley roads. While the official request has not been filed, this could be a nine-story residential building.

ALBEMARLE COUNTY HORSE

Gently rolling fenced pastures lead to a comfortable and gracious manor home. Peaceful and quiet! This home features 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms and a 3 car garage. Fabulous kitchen with glass front cabinets and chef quality appliances open to the den. Beautiful primary suite with custom walk in closet. Extensive outdoor living areas; gated courtyard, patio with wood burning fireplace and a screened in porch with audio visual hookup. Property features a pool, 8 stall barn and a charming, 2 bedroom cottage.

MONTE SERENO SUBDIVISION

13.68 ACRE PARCEL. Five approved lots ranging from 2 to 51/2 acres. All surveying, engineering, plots, and paved road completed. Stunning Blue Ridge views to the west. Far reaching vistas define this property, Monte Sereno. Perfect for building a spectacular estate home on a total of 13.68 acres or a unique subdivision, with your own covenants and restrictions. High speed internet available. Located in Albemarle County, one mile off 29 North on Frays Mill Road. Less than 10 minutes to all conveniences. One owner is a Virginia licensed real estate broker. $1,500,000

Christina Echeverria Jason Statuta, CFPAmanda Stevenson

NBJ ARCHITECTURE

A rendering of the Gallery Court Hotel was submitted as part of a special use permit request in the fall of 2018. While the permit was approved, along with a demolition permit, the project has not yet moved forward.

The University of Virginia Foundation has spent years acquiring properties along Ivy Road for its expansion, several of which have now been taken off the city’s property tax rolls.

HATTON FERRY RD

Situated in Southern Albemarle County, and within 2 miles of the James River at Hatton Ferry, this 21+ acre parcel backs up to the Totier Creek Reservoir. Parcel offers a private, elevated building site with open pasture and mature hardwoods. Parcel is within 5 miles of the historic town of Scottsville. MLS# 637310 $245,000

WESTERN ALBEMARLE

A RARE find in a spectacular Western Albemarle location! This 120.75 parcel offers magnificent mountain and valley views in all directions. The rolling pastures and beautiful, mature hardwoods combined with privacy and convenience (minutes from downtown Crozet) create a one-ofa-kind opportunity. MLS# 636241 $3,400,000

PLANK ROAD

Beautiful 4.93-acre parcel located just outside the quaint town of Batesville. Parcel is divided into two separate parcels and offers an open elevated front parcel with a small shed and shared stream at the rear. The rear parcel offers an elevated wooded building site.

MLS # 634345 $343,000

NELSON COUNTY

Absolutely private and pristine deep water lake of 50+/- acres, with (2) miles of shoreline, in Nelson County, surrounded by nearly 800 acres of commercial pine forest, designed for staggered harvests into perpetuity. An incredibly rare recreational paradise. A new lake home, with quality appointments at waters edge, a boat house with (2) lifts and a large steel storage building to house toys and equipment. Internet and generator are in place. Nearly 7 miles of interior roads and trails with mountain views. Includes access to nearby James River!

MLS # 623894 $4,400,000

FRAY’S GRANT

Just outside Charlottesville, Fray’s Grant offers luxury living in Earlysville, VA. With breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge, gently rolling land, meadows, wildlife, nature trails, and lot sizes ranging from 2 to 74 acres, Fray’s Grant is a beautiful setting to build your forever home. This 21+ acre parcel sits on a culde-sac offering privacy, towering hardwoods, (2) year-round running streams, and natural sloping for building plans with a basement. Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport is 6 miles away with shopping and eateries within 10 miles.

MLS# 637061 $359,000

FRAYS

MILL RD

Gorgeous 6.22 acre building parcel located in beautiful Northern Albemarle County. This parcel offers an open elevated building site with gorgeous views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and surrounding mountainside. Located on a quiet country lane yet close to both Charlottesville and Ruckersville. One of 6 parcels available in this small country subdivision; parcels range from 4 to 8 acres. It is advised to use 4WD to access parcels until driveways are completed. MLS# 636003 $344,500

LANGDON WOODS LOT 12

Gorgeous park-like wooded parcel located in NW Albemarle County with state maintained roads, underground power, high speed internet through Centurylink, and community stocked lake. Parcel is unique in the fact that there is a 57 acre preservation tract that adjoins this parcel that will preserve the privacy and natural beauty of this parcel. Elevated building site with streams on each side plus rock outcroppings create a very special parcel. HOA review of plans and minimum 2800 sq. ft. home. 4 bedroom perc test on file and 20 GPM well in place.

MLS # 638296 $259,900

LANGDON WOODS LOT 3

Beautiful Langdon Woods - a tranquil, large-lot subdivision featuring public roads, HOA, plus pastoral and seasonal mountain views. This 8.42 acre lot features an elevated building site overlooking the shared stocked lake most of which is located on this parcel, and backs up to a 57 acre preservation tract. This is the only parcel in the subdivision which allows for a dock. Parcel has a drilled well in place. Ten minutes to CHO airport, shopping, NGIC, etc. Bring your builder! Plans subject to HOA approval.

MLS # 638242 $279,000

A DREAM HOME IS GREAT, BUT THE RIGHT ONE IS BETTER. Let

LOUISA COUNTY LOT $39,900

Bev Nash 434-981-5560

• 5 acres in Dogwood lake Estates

• A wooded corner lot

• Well maintained gravel roads

• Community access to a lake

• Kayak launch and a covered picnic area

Dan Corbin 434-531-6155

• Wonderful Home in Earlysville

• 4100+ sq ft, 4/5 Bedroom, 4 Bath

• Huge Master Suite / Bath, 2 Walk ins

• New Roof 2021, Granite, Hardwoods, Deck

• 12 mi to UVA, 2 mi Broadus Wood, 8 mi to Airport

• Privacy in Hickory Ridge on 2+ ac, MUST SEE

• MLS 637801

Lori Click 434-326-7593

• Lakefront living at it’s finest in a spacious, well maintained custom home

• 5 Bedrooms/3 Baths located at Lake Monticello

• Living room with cathedral ceilings & fireplace

• Family room with pellet

Bev Nash 434-981-5560

• 5.5 acres. 145 feet of road frontage

• Just reduced and motivated

• On Rt 20 south of Monticello HS

• Mostly cleared land ready to bush hog

• Survey on file, no HOA or restrictions

KESWICK $210,000

Rachel Burns 434 760-4778

• REDUCED! Motivated Seller! Build your dream home on this five acre lot in the heart of Keswick. Wake up each day to a view of the mountains andthe neighboring horse farm, owned by the UVA Foundation. The current owner has already done all the legwork - the driveway is in place and approved by VDOT, thehome site is cleared, well and septic permits have been issued! The permits on file are for a conventional septic system and a three bedroom dwelling but, the lot canaccommodate a larger septic system. Just bring your builder and settle in to this perfect bucolic property.

Candice van der Linde 434-981-8730

• Timber Oaks Subdivision is a shovel ready

Mixed-Use Development with a Variety of Housing types as well as 2 Commercial Blocks on Route 33.

• Conceptual Plans include 2 Entrances; 2 Phases & 3 Blocks.

• This also includes almost 4 acres for Green Space (IE: Park; Playground; Tree Preservation Area). Opportunity Awaits!

an agent who knows guide you.

JEFFERSON HIGHWAY

QUINTESSENTIAL BRICK GEORGIAN

113

Looking for an easy, always rentable, investment opportunity walkable to UVA? 3 BR, 1½ BA turn-key duplex conveniently located off JPA. This duplex is a rare find in desirable location walkable to both UVA & Medical Center.

$283,000 | montaguemiller.com/640035

Ashley Balazs | 802.558.5139

Your Place. Our Purpose.

396

Sycamore Springs---A fully renovated farmhouse in an idyllic setting in northwestern Rockbridge County. Charming older home w/standing seam roof, screened porch, gorgeous heart pine floors & woodburning fireplace. Open and airy kitchen.

$459,000 | montaguemiller.com/636337

Carter Montague | 434.962.3419

324

Situated on 15 acres along a paved driveway is this 3400 sq.ft. home, 3 BR, 3½ BA with large open kitchen with quartz counters, detached garage w/workshop, a 3-car garage with upstairs studio apartment, and a horse barn.

$789,000 | montaguemiller.com/VAFN2000170

Carrie Brown | 434.806.2048

15528 Spotswood Trail | Ruckersville

Investment opportunity awaits! 30 acre farm with 9 division rights. This coveted farm has been owned by the same family for over 100 years. The original farmhouse and another are currently used as a rental home. Equipment buildings.

$1,250,000 | montaguemiller.com/639147

Carrie Brown | 434.806.2048

$480,000 | CarterMontague.com/639070

Carter Montague | 434.962.3419

1051

Spotless, low maintenance condo convenient to all things Charlottesville! This beautiful home boasts gleaming hardwood floors, an impressive kitchen with cherry cabinets, granite counters, stainless steel appliances, and more!

$375,000 | newleafcville.com/637910

New Leaf Team | 434.214.6121

Langdon Woods Dr Lot 11 | Earlysville

Private 3.42 acres nestled in a peaceful community devoted to rural preservation. You’ll enjoy walking trails, a community lake and other amenities. Convenient to Hollymead Town a Center and the Blue Ridge Mountains!

$125,000 | montaguemiller.com/591221

Anita Dunbar | 434.981.1421

63 acres in a very private and appealing western Albemarle location, surrounded by large acreage parcels. A 2004 3 Bed, 2 Bath home sits in the middle of the property. Property has a creek and some very nice building sites.

$375,000 | CarterMontague.com/639319

Carter Montague | 434.962.3419

Gorgeous 72 acre parcel near Lovingston. Multiple elevated building sites overlook a beautiful stocked lake with mountain views beyond. Well managed, property is worthy of construction of an architecturally significant dwelling.

$550,000 | CarterMontague.com/637981

Carter Montague | 434.962.3419

Glenwood Station Ln, Unit 304 | Charlottesville

Summit St | Charlottesville

Bellevue Ln | Rockbridge Baths

Mechunk Creek Dr | Troy

2272 White Mountain Rd | Afton

0 Cresent Farm Ln | Shipman

192 acre timber/recreation tract in central Nelson County, very close to Shipman and 10 mins to Lovingston/ Rt 29.Very private but not remote, property consists of 4 tax parcels & spans southeastern slopes of Naked Mountain.

355 Gobblers Glen Ln | Nelson Co

WATERWORKS

A FESTIVAL OF NEW THEATRICAL WORK IN DOWNTOWN CHARLOTTESVILLE

SPOTLIGHT SERIES

SILAS, THE UNINVITED by Derek J. Snow, directed by Clinton Johnston / LOOKING GLASS ELEGY by Robert Wray, directed by Kerry Moran / UNSUNG STORIES: AN EVENING OF VOICES directed by Edward Warwick-White with musical direction by Kristin Baltes / #CHARLOTTESVILLE by Priyanka Shetty, directed by Ti Ames

NEW WORKS LINEUP

HEARTBEAT OPHELIA by D.L. Siegel / SIMPLE FUTURE PAST PERFECT by Jack Karp / DON'T HYDROPLANE by Bryan Curtis / UNABASHEDLY by Mike Teverbaugh / HITHER, GA by Byron Harris / MAGNOLIA AND THE PIG by Ally Karaca / BLOOD/SWEAT/TEARS by Ali Keller / THE LAST DAYS OF THE FRANKLINTON HISTORICAL VILLAGE AND SHOPPE by Ron Burch / THE BURIALS OF ANDRÉ CAILLOUX by Alan Freeman / AH WING AND THE AUTOMATON EAGLE by Brandon Zang / TALKING

TENDERLOIN by Marsha Roberts / LOCALLY SOURCED : One Act Plays Developed by the Live Arts Playwrights' Lab / LIZZIE BORDEN: LIFE AFTER DEATH by William Meurer

CO-PRODUCERS & PARTNERS

LIVE ARTS PLAYWRIGHTS' LAB / CHARLOTTESVILLE PLAYWRIGHTS COLLECTIVE / THE BRIDGE PAI / COMMON HOUSE / CHASKI GLOBAL / THE BREATH PROJECT / BUSHMAN DREYFUS ARCHITECTS /JACK

BROWN'S BEER & BURGER JOINT

COMMUNITY INTENSIVES

ACTOR SELF-CARE INTENSIVE with Daniel Kunkel

MONOLOGUE TRAINING INTENSIVE with Ronda Hewitt

INTRO TO SHAKESPEARE TECHNIQUES with David Minton

CREATING, PRODUCING & TOURING

A SOLO SHOW with Priyanka Shetty

HIP HOP & MINDFULNESS INTENSIVE with Chris Jeter

HOW TO RECORD A VIRTUAL AUDITION with Andrew Bryce

SPECIAL EVENTS & MORE

FRIDAY, MAY 5

KICK-OFF POOL PARTY

THURSDAY, MAY 11

*FREE* FESTIVAL PREVIEW SHOWS

SATURDAY, JUNE 3 CLOSING MOONDANCE PARTY

FULL FESTIVAL SCHEDULE AT

LIVEARTS.ORG

livearts.org/waterworks

Sponsored by Pamela Friedman & Ronald Bailey

Supported by Bank of America Foundation and Virginia National Bank

Thursday, 4/27, 1pm

Thursday, 4/27, 6pm

Thursday, 4/27, 7:30pm The Forum at O-Hill

Friday, 4/28, 1pm Old Cabell Hall

Friday, 4/28, 3:30pm 107 Old Cabell Hall

Saturday, 4/29, 3:30pm Old Cabell Hall

Saturday, 4/29, 8pm Old Cabell Hall

Sunday, 4/30, 3:30pm Old Cabell Hall

Tuesday, 5/2, 7:30pm The Forum at O-Hill

Tuesday, 5/2, 8pm Old Cabell Hall

Wednesday, 5/3, noon

Wednesday, 5/3, 7pm Visible Records

OUR 35TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON IS FILLED WITH LOVE

DCTheaterArts.com

As You Like It

BY WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE

NOW THRU MAY 14

Love is complicated, and nowhere more so than the Forest of Arden, where disguised lovers on the run meet cute, and happy endings including four—count them, four–weddings ensue. Catch one of Shakespeare’s most beloved romantic comedies!

Eurydice

BY SARAH RUHL

NOW THRU MAY 13

A fresh look at a timeless love story! Dying too young on her wedding day, Eurydice must journey to the underworld, where she reunites with her father and struggles to remember her lost life. “A love letter to the world... magical” (The New York Times).

The Complete Works of William Shakespeare

MAY 17–JUNE 4

Three madcap players weave their wicked way through all 37 of Shakespeare’s plays in one wild ride that leaves audiences helpless with laughter.

“Some of the funniest, most thrilling theater to be had anywhere.”

(abridged)[revised] (AGAIN)

AND LAUGHTER!

CULTURE

THURSDAY 4/27–

SATURDAY 4/29

I DON’T

After 30 years of marriage, a man tells his wife that he is going to leave her. Unperturbed by his declaration, the wife responds mockingly, so he tries again, and again. Edward Albee’s Marriage Play follows Jack and Gillian, the soon-to-be-divorced couple, as they reminisce about the various phases of their relationship— affection, passion, betrayal, and neglect—culminating in a critical look at the institution of marriage and life’s overall purpose. The play is a joint production from Charlottesville Players Guild and Hamner Theater. $25, time varies.

Jefferson School African American Heritage Center, 233 Fourth St. NW. jeffschoolheritagecenter.com

SUNDAY 4/30

IN FULL BLOOM

After nearly a decade of silence, The Wallflowers make some noise with Exit Wounds, the band’s 10-song studio offering. The Jakob Dylan-led rock outfit meshes timeless songwriting and storytelling with a hardhitting and decidedly modern musical attack. Exit Wounds opens with “Maybe Your Heart’s Not in It No More,” a gentle, Americana-inspired song with Shelby Lynne, who provides harmonies on two other tracks: “Darlin’ Hold On” and “Move the River.” $34–64, 8pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net

TREASURED TRADITION

Outdoor music is officially here, with the 35th season of Fridays After Five The summer lineup pairs area acts, including Kendall Street Company, Beleza, and The Chickenheads, with local nonprofits, which work the concession stands in support of their organizations. This Friday, catch Ramona and the Holy Smokes (above) on the stage for an evening of honkytonk tunes about everything from heartbreaks to hangovers. Free, 5:30pm. Ting Pavilion, 700 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. tingpavilion.com

TRISTAN WILLIAMS

CULTURE ALL YOU CAN EAT

WHY DO YOU COOK?

For our ongoing series, C-VILLE Weekly asks area food and drinks folks what motivates them to clock in every day. If you would like to be considered for this column, please email tami@c-ville.com.

Wednesday 4/26 music

Berto and Matt. Latin guitar night. Free, 7pm. The Bebedero, 225 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thebebedero.com

Jim Waive. Classic country tunes from the man with a velvet voice and impressive beard. Free, 7pm. Blue Moon Diner, 606 W. Main St. bluemoondiner.net

Karaoke. Jen DeVille hosts this weekly song party. Free, 9pm. Rapture, 303 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. rapturerestaurant.com

Open Mic Night. Charlottesville’s longestrunning open mic night. Free, 9pm. Holly’s Diner, 1221 E. Market St. 234-4436

Wavelength & Bob Bennetta. A mid-week music boost. Free, 6:30pm. The Whiskey Jar, 227 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thewhiskey jarcville.com

dance

Sunset Salsa & Bachata. A night of dancing, drinks, food, and beautiful sunset views. $10, 6pm. Quirk Hotel Charlottesville, 499 W. Main St. quirkhotels.com

stage

Buyer & Cellar A comic solo show about the price of fame and the value of things, inspired by Barbra Streisand’s coffee table book, My Passion for Design. $22-27, 7:30pm. Live Arts, 123 E. Water St. livearts.org

words

Profs & Pints: Understanding the War in Ukraine. A look at the invasion’s causes and possible outcomes with professor Allan C. Stam. $13-17, 5:30pm. Graduate Hotel, 1309 W. Main St. profsandpints.com

classes

Paint & Sip: Bright Bouquet. Paint, sip, and repeat. $40, 6pm. Pro Re Nata, 6135 Rockfish Gap Tpke., Crozet. catelynkelseydesigns.com

The Art Of Cocktails. An afternoon of mixology, education, and, most importantly, tasting. $25, 4pm. Quirk Hotel Charlottesville, 499 W. Main St. quirkhotels.com

A steak in the biz

Without formal training, I entered the world of professional cooking in 1996, when some college friends from JMU mentioned that the steakhouse they worked at was looking for a cook. So, eager to try something new (and not move back home) I began working at Claiborne’s. I remained there for a year before moving to Charlottesville, where I made it a point to pick up ways to improve myself over the course of working in a variety of kitchens, from Bodo’s to Rococo’s to Starr Hill restaurant.

Chaos and passion

For me, professional cooking has always checked a variety of boxes that I enjoy: I love the exhilaration I get from being part of a team, “locked in” with one another in the midst of the (semi) controlled chaos of a busy dinner service. I love the delicate balance of precision and artistry that goes into every plate, and the creative outlet provided by designing new menu items. I love the variety of unconvention-

al and passionate co-workers I interact with, plus interacting with local farmers and purveyors and feeling like I am expanding community bonds by doing so. But at the root of it all, I have always found immense joy in making people happy.

Smoke it

I’m always happiest cooking-wise when I’m able to incorporate the process of smoking into anything I prepare. A great example of this is our Smokra (above), a dish composed of smoked okra, roasted sweet corn, onions, peppers, and herbs.

The smell of that dish coming off the line is simply intoxicating! Be on the lookout for it later this summer, when all of those wonderful things are in season.

Recipe to rock

Somehow, even with all of my work and family responsibilities, I find time to play music in a few different projects: Peen (a local Ween cover band), and I also play guitar in a classic, Southern country rock band called Campbell Road Band. We’re playing Fridays After Five on June 9, with the Chickenhead Blues Band.

Earth Day Upcycle. Learn how to upcycle common household products. Free, 4pm. Virginia Discovery Museum, 524 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. vadm.org etc.

Block Night. An informal session for those interested in the art and craft of book and printmaking. Free, 5:30pm. Virginia Center for the Book, Jefferson School City Center, 233 Fourth St. NW. vabookcenter.org

Exhibition on Screen— Vermeer: The Blockbuster Exhibition A private view of the Rijksmuseum’s Vermeer exhibition. $1115, 7pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net

Sick of Myself A deliciously dark and twisted tale of a fame-obsessed woman who goes to demented lengths to get the attention she thinks she deserves. $10, 9:30pm. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, 5th Street Station. drafthouse.com

The Devil’s Backbone Guillermo del Toro’s haunting ghost story, presented in a new 4K restoration. $10, 7:30pm. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, 5th Street Station. drafthouse.com Trivia. Show off your trivia knowledge and win prizes, including gift cards, merch, and free drinks. Free, 7pm. Dairy Market, 946 Grady Ave. dairymarketcville.com

Thursday 4/27

music

Berto & Vincent. Good times and good tunes. Free, 7pm. The Bebedero, 225 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thebebedero.com

Michael Ketola

Chef and general manager Mas Tapas, mastapas.com

Michael Ketola worked his way through some of Charlottesville’s busiest restaurants before landing at Mas Tapas where he has guided the kitchen for 17 years.

Concert Band. Featuring music by John Philip Sousa, John Williams, and more. Free, 6pm. The McIntire Amphitheater, UVA Grounds. music.virginia.edu

Deb Talan. The singer-songwriter is a mother, breast cancer survivor, and co-founder of one of indie-folk duos The Weepies $25-28, 8pm. The Southern Café & Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesoutherncville.com

Popular Music Group Voice Class Recital. Performing pop, rap, and jazz. Free, 7:30pm. O’Hill Forum, UVA Grounds. music. virginia.edu

Tea Time Recitals. A varied menu of musical delights. Free, 1pm. Old Cabell Hall, UVA Grounds. music.virginia.edu

Thursdays Around 5. Live music from The Rimels, food, and drinks. Free, 5pm. The Center at Belvedere, 540 Belvedere Blvd. thecentercville.org

Tina & Her Pony. Gentle folk. Free, 7pm. Blue Moon Diner, 606 W. Main St. bluemoondiner.net

stage

Buyer & Cellar See listing for Wednesday, April 26. $22-27, 7:30pm. Live Arts, 123 E. Water St. livearts.org

Marriage Play. A joint production from Charlottesville Players Guild and Hamner Theater. $25, 7:30pm. Jefferson School African American Heritage Center, 233 Fourth St. NW. jeffschoolheritagecenter.org

words

Dean King: Guardians of the Valley Celebrate the release of the Virginia-based writer’s new book, Guardians of the Valley: John Muir and the Friendship That Saved Yosemite. Free (RSVP required), 7pm. Bluebird & Co., 5792 Three Notched Rd., Crozet. bluebirdcrozet.com

Storytime. Miss Amanda hosts storytime for kiddos of all ages. Free, 11am. Bluebird & Co., 5792 Three Notched Rd., Crozet. bluebirdcrozet.com

outside

Thursday Evening Sunset Series. Bring lawn chairs and blankets, and enjoy live music, food trucks, drinks, and a stunning view of the sunset. $10, 6pm. Carter Mountain Orchard, 1435 Carters Mountain Trl. chilesfamilyorchards.com

etc.

Trivia & Thai. Enjoy games, food, and happy hour specials. Free, 6:15pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potterscraft cider.com

Friday 4/28

music

Bob Bennetta Blues Revue with Susanna Rosen. Jazzy tunes. Free, 6pm. Glass House Winery, 5898 Free Union Rd., Free Union. glasshousewinery.com

Flatland Cavalry. With Cole Chaney. $18-20, 8pm. The Jefferson Theater, 110 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. jeffersontheater.com

Ian Gilliam & The Fire Kings. Rock ‘n’ roll, blues, rockabilly, and country. Free, 9pm. Holly’s Diner, 1221 E. Market St. 234-4436

JAMnesty. Join Amnesty International at UVA for a live music event to fundraise for refugees. Free, 4pm. Arts Grounds at UVA, Culbreth Rd. @amnestyintluva

John D’earth & UVA Jazz Ensemble. With internationally acclaimed French pianist Damien Groleau at the Jazz Digs JABA concert. $35-125, 7pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net

CULTURE TRIED IT IN C’VILLE

ALL THE WORLD’S A

STAGE

Ah, springtime in Charlottesville, a veritable petticoat junction of daffodils, bluebells, and redbuds tossing their skirts in the breeze—as Shakespeare might say.

After all, Shakespeare coined the phrase “petticoat junction” in one of his most excellent comedies, Much Ado About the Beverly Hillbillies

What’s that you say? My cultural references smack of senility? Fie on this tale told by an idiot?

Yes, you’re right, and I know it. Somehow I’ve let 20 frowzy, frazzled years of motherhood turn my “cultural life” into an unweeded garden, rank and gross in nature. My idea of high art these days is a “Schitt’s Creek” rerun accompanied by a bowl of Cheerios.

Alas, alack, even Moira Rose would find my cultural sloth appalling. So with an empty nest and no excuses left, I recently ventured over the mountain to the literary mecca in Charlottesville’s backyard: the Blackfriars Playhouse at the American Shakespeare Center, home of “the world’s only re-creation of Shakespeare’s indoor theatre” (according to the ASC’s website).

Thus did I find myself in Staunton on a chilly Saturday night before Easter, transported, and, dare I say, culturally resurrected, by a rollicking performance of As You Like It Mary Esselman

What

A live Shakespeare production in central Virginia’s version of the Globe Theatre.

Why

Because not once in 20 years have I seen an ASC show—despite being an English major and a Shakespeare-lover (my kingdom for a midsummer night with Shakespeare in Love’s Joseph Fiennes! By my troth, that’s one yummy Bard).

How it went

Something about the nonprofit, educational vibe of the lobby made us feel like misbehaving sixth graders on a school-sponsored field trip. Oh no, why did we think this would be cool and fun? Would we be straining to endure a stiff, over-the-top piece of “the-a-ter?” Would we be nodding off but trying hard to pretend we weren’t so that the cast wouldn’t be able to see us snooze? Would my Shakespeare-averse husband make a fast break for Charlottesville once we got to intermission, leaving me to get home in an Uber?

Here’s how good the show was: There was my husband, singing along with the cast, clapping, chortling, and wiping away tender tears. The only other time I’d seen him like this was when the Nationals won the World Series.

How do I explain the energy and charisma of the cast? Seven actors—only seven—playing multiple roles on a stage with no fixed or fancy set. And yet, somehow, you never doubted that each character in the play was that character, and no one else. Topher Embrey, for example, played the mercurial Duke Frederick with thundering command, and then, a quick costume change later, brought the house down as the straw-chewing hillbilly, Corin. Annabelle Rollison delivered a heartbreaking “seven stages of man” speech as Jaques, but had the audience guffawing as the pumped-up wrestler, Charles.

The dazzling cast didn’t just perform for us, they played with us, physically drawing us into the fun and magic of the show. Before the play even started, the actors warmed up the crowd with their own band, playing Hootie and Taylor hits with wry self-awareness, shaming us into singing along. Once the play began, the performers popped up behind,

around, and right in front of us, literally climbing over the seats at one point, and sobbing into the lap of a good-humored audience member at another. It was hilarious, exhilarating, and oddly moving in how it connected us all—Shakespeare’s characters, the players themselves, and the enraptured audience.

My husband said he hadn’t expected the show to feel so personal, as if the cast was talking directly to you. “It felt like when you made eye contact with them, they knew you,” he said.

That’s what great art can do—make you feel heard, known, recognized, and maybe even reborn.

As You Like It runs through May 14 at Staunton’s American Shakespeare Center, where everyone has a role to play.

FREE BRIDGE QUINTET Anniversary Concert

THIS WEEK

9pm. The Jefferson Theater, 110 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. jeffersontheater.com

Makenzie Phipps. Country tunes. Free, 3:30pm. Hardware Hills Vineyard, 5199 W. River Rd, Scottsville. hardwarehills.com

‘60s tunes and food from Twisted Biscuits food truck. Free, 6pm. Chisholm Vineyards at Adventure Farm, 1135 Clan Chisholm Ln., Earlysville.

See listing for Thursday, April 27. Free, 1pm. Old Cabell Hall, UVA

With The Owners and Bed Maker. $14-50, 8pm. The Southern Café & Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesouthern

Featuring Toni Clare. Free, 6pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potterscraftcider.com

See listing for Wednesday, April 26. $22-27, 8pm. Live Arts, 123 E.

. See listing for Thursday, April 27. $25, 7:30pm. Jefferson School African American Heritage Center, 233 Fourth St.

A physical theatre voyage interpreting writings by PVCC students incarcerated in Virginia prisons. Free, 7:30pm. PVCC’s V. Earl Dickinson

Shannon McLeod in conversation with McLeod discusses Nature Trail . Free, 7pm. New Dominion Bookshop, 404 E. Main St., Downtown Mall.

A showcase of work by affiliated faculty at UVA at a colloquium with Steph Ceraso, Njelle Hamilton, and Samhita Sunya. Free, 3:30pm. Old Cabell Hall 107, UVA Grounds. music.virginia.edu

Sustainability in Your Studio & in Your Artists Michelle Gagliano and Andrea Trimble discuss how to create and use more earth-friendly materials, and more. Free, 10am. Second Street Gallery, 115 Second St. SE. startupstudiova.squarespace.com

What is Coastal Landscape Governance Research Saying? Carla Gonçalves, a Portuguese landscape architect and Ph.D. candidate in spatial planning at the University of Porto, shares her manifesto on coastal landscape governance. Free, 5pm. Online. arch.virginia.edu

outside

Playdates at the Playscape. BYO snacks and buddies and enjoy outdoor play. $20, 9:30am. Wildrock, 6600 Blackwells Hollow Rd., Crozet. wildrock.org

Stream Sampling Demonstration. Drop in and watch the Rivanna Conservation Alliance conduct a benthic macroinvertebrate sampling demonstration and ask questions. Free, 11am. James Monroes Highland, 2050 James Monroe Pkwy. highland.org

Saturday 4/29

music

An Evening of Hindustani Music. With world-renowned Hindustani vocalist Sanhita Nandi. Free, 6pm. McCleod Hall Auditorium, UVA Grounds. music.virginia.edu

Chatham Rabbits. The husband-and-wife duo favor rustic, minimalist acoustic arrangements with clawhammer-style banjo and guitar. $15-17, 8pm. The Southern Café & Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesouthern cville.com

Gimme Gimme Disco. Calling all dancing queens for this ABBA dance party. $15-20,

Miles Jackson. A concert featuring choral and instrumental chamber repertoire. Free, 8pm. Old Cabell Hall, UVA Grounds. music. virginia.edu

Lua Project. Live music in the orchard. Free, 2:15pm. Albemarle CiderWorks, 2545 Rural Ridge Ln., North Garden. albemarle ciderworks.com

Performance Concentration Recital. Performances by the musicians of UVA’s performance concentration. Free, 3:30pm. Old Cabell Hall, UVA Grounds. music.virginia.edu

Robert Jospé Trio. Enjoy wine and music with friends. Free, 5pm. Glass House Winery, 5898 Free Union Rd., Free Union. glass housewinery.com

John Kovach. A solo classical guitar concert. $37, 8pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. the paramount.net

The Cows. Get down. Free, 5:30pm. Potter’s Craft Cider, 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd. potterscraftcider.com

The Empty Bottles. A yacht-rock party. Free, 9:30pm. Rapture, 303 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. rapturerestaurant.com

dance

Step Into the Story: Once Upon a Time. A miniature interactive dance performance for young audience members. $10, 3 and 5pm. Albemarle Ballet Theatre, 5798 Three Notch’d Rd., Crozet. abtdance.org

Silent Disco. Dance to the beat of your favorite tunes. $10, 9pm. Firefly, 1304 E. Market St. goodtimesonlyva.com

stage

Buyer & Cellar. See listing for Wednesday, April 26. $22-27, 8pm. Live Arts, 123 E. Water St. livearts.org

Marriage Play. See listing for Thursday, April 27. $25, 8pm. Jefferson School African American Heritage Center, 233 Fourth St. NW. jeffschoolheritagecenter.org

Sentence: Flying in Place III See listing for Friday, April 28. Free, 7:30pm. PVCC’s V. Earl Dickinson Building, 501 College Dr. pvcc.edu

words

Storytime with Crozet Firefighters. Every last Saturday of the month a different firefighter from Station 5 stops by to answer questions, meet the community, and, of course, read some stories. Free, 10:30am. Bluebird & Co., 5792 Three Notched Rd., Crozet. bluebirdcrozet.com

Storytime. Readings of recent favorites and classics. Free, 11am. New Dominion Bookshop, 404 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. ndbookshop.com

classes

Spring Centerpiece Flower Arranging Workshop. Learn the fundamentals of floral design with Susanna of Spring Creek Blooms. $85, 4pm. Bluebird & Co., 5792 Three Notched Rd., Crozet. bluebirdcrozet.com

outside

Cville Bike Fest. Races for all ages, vendors, food, and drinks. Free, 10am. Dairy Market, 946 Grady Ave. dairymarketcville.com

Highland Rustic Trails Anniversary Celebration. Celebrate five years of hiking at Highland with a group walk. Free, 9:30am. James Monroe’s Highland, 2050 James Monroe Pkwy. highland.org

John D'earth

Jeff Decker Calvin Brown

Peter Spaar

Robert Jospé

Trumpet

Sax

University of Virginia Department of Music

The Free Bridge Quintet dedicates this concert to the memory of Marita McClymonds.

Playdates at the Playscape. See listing for Friday, April 28. $20, 9:30am. Wildrock, 6600 Blackwells Hollow Rd., Crozet. wildrock.org

ReadyKids Block Party. Games, a bounce house, prizes, and more. Free, 11am. Readykids, 1000 E. High St. readykidscville.org etc.

Charlottesville City Market. Shop seasonal local produce, homemade baked goods, authentic cultural foods, wares from artisans of various disciplines, and more. Free, 9am. Charlottesville City Market, 100 Water St. E. charlottesville.gov

Kid*Vention. Meet dozens of local exhibitors and investigate all things science. $10 suggested donation per family, 9:30am. Ting Pavilion, 700 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. vadm.org

Met Live in HD: Champion. Award-winning composer Terence Blanchard brings his first opera to the Met. $18-25, 12:45pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net

Odds and Ends Film Festival. An experimental film festival. $10-15, 6pm. Light House Studio: Vinegar Hill Theatre, 220 W. Market St. lighthousestudio.org

Sunday 4/30

music

Bahlmann Abbot. An album release show for Abbot’s Wind Weight Water. $20-25, 6:30pm. The Front Porch, 221 E. Water St. frontporchcville.org

Cavalier Symphony Orchestra: Once Upon A Time. Performing its annual spring concert. Free-$10, 2pm. St. Anne’s Belfield School, 2132 Ivy Rd. cavalierso.com

David Kulund and Matty Metcalfe. Rock tunes. Free, 2pm. Glass House Winery, 5898 Free Union Rd., Free Union. glass housewinery.com

Free Bridge Quintet. A musical performance by the faculty jazz quintet of the UVA Department of Music. Free-$15, 3:30pm. Old Cabell Hall, UVA Grounds. music.virginia.edu

The Wallflowers. For the past 30 years, the Jakob Dylan-led act has stood as one of rock’s most dynamic and purposeful bands. $34-64, 8pm. The Paramount Theater, 215 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. theparamount.net

stage

Sentence: Flying in Place III See listing for Friday, April 28. Free, 2:30pm. PVCC’s V. Earl Dickinson Building, 501 College Dr. pvcc.edu

words

Thrillers and Wine Chillers Book Club. Join Chelsea for a discussion of this month’s book club pick, All The Dangerous Things. Free, 4pm. Bluebird & Co., 5792 Three Notched Rd., Crozet. bluebirdcrozet.com

etc.

2001: A Space Odyssey Stanley Kubrick’s mind-bending masterpiece, presented on our biggest screen. $10, 3pm. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, 5th Street Station. draft house.com

Earth Month Festival. A parking lot takeover with eight eco-friendly vendors. Free, 11am. Dogwood Refillery, 190 Zan Rd. dogwoodrefillery.com

Highland Rustic Trails Dog Day. Bring your four-legged friends for a day of doggone good fun. Free, 9:30am. James Monroe’s Highland, 2050 James Monroe Pkwy. highland.org Purple Rain Movie Party. Leave your umbrella at home and go crazy. $13, 6pm. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, 5th Street Station. draft house.com

CULTURE FEEDBACK

On a high note

French piano virtuoso joins local players for an evening of jazz excellence

By Shea Gibbs arts@c-ville.com

John D’earth knows Charlottesville music. Since settling in town in 1981, he’s come to define the local jazz scene—and beyond—with his considerable crossover into pop genres, and reach as a music teacher.

So when D’earth decides to bring a French jazz pianist stateside for a local residency, culminating with a show alongside himself and the University of Virginia Jazz Ensemble at the Paramount Theater on April 28, the ears of jazz aficionados and casual music fans alike perk up.

The visiting pianist is Damien Groleau. Born in 1983, Groleau won national recognition in France at only 16 years old, and began a stage career that would eventually establish him as a virtuoso in multiple genres. He’s since released six solo albums, picked up the flute along the way, and provided instrumentation on 15 records for other composers. Now well known for his piano and flute playing as well as his compositions, Groleau is primarily influenced by American jazz, but accented by European romantic and Latin music. In addition to his home country, he’s toured Brazil, Tunisia, Singapore, Indonesia, China, and the United States.

“Damien’s piano music for me, it is the legacy of a huge jazz tradition we see expressed in, say, Bill Evans,” D’earth says. “He is just so introspective and cool.”

D’earth himself played his first stage show—“in a tux,” he specifies—when he was 14. He says finding jazz at a young age isn’t out of the ordinary. The music’s free-form, improvisational nature seems to simply glom on to young prodigies’ brains.

Music found its way into Groleau’s life despite it never being around in his household. With no influence from his parents, he somehow began listening to jazz when he was about 11 and bought his first record at 12. “It just started like this,” Groleau says in his shy, calculated English. “I started to play on my own.”

Groleau’s current week-long U.S. residency began when he arrived in Charlottesville on April 20 after a two-day visit to New York City. He disembarked his train, and rehearsed for the first time that night with the UVA Jazz Ensemble, for which D’earth serves as director, meeting the players and running through several songs D’earth had selected.

The group sat down together again the next day, Friday, before taking part in a concert at Old Cabell Hall that Sunday.

The first show on Groleau’s schedule, Brother From A Sister City! (Groleau also happens to be from one of Charlottesville’s

sister cities, Besançon, France), had him plugging into the UVA Jazz Ensemble’s typical lineup, which already features two piano players. D’earth arranged for the show to include a “big piano trade,” along with instrumentation from the rest of the band, highlighted by fourth-year Michael McNulty on guitar.

Earlier in the week, D’earth, the ensemble, and Groleau began preparations for their second show, the Paramount event, for which all proceeds will go to support the Jefferson Area Board for Aging. Along the way, Groleau took part in other improvisations with D’earth, and presented in front of UVA students in his native French.

The show on Friday, titled Jazz Digs JABA, promises to be “a complete circus,” D’earth says. In addition to D’earth on horns, Groleau on piano and (likely) flute, and the UVA Jazz Ensemble, D’earth has arranged special guest performances by the “three tenors” (no, not those Three Tenors). Local musician and radio host Terri Allard will act as mistress of ceremonies.

So, what will the featured act of Groleau, D’earth, and the ensemble play? The Frenchman learned of the setlist unexpectedly during a Zoom call on March 31. D’earth’s surprise idea: Center the show on a piece he penned, “Ephemera,” based on

three poems written by his late brother. The piece, originally composed for jazz artist Veronica Swift, who performed it with the Youth Orchestra of Central Virginia in 2011, deals with “exuberant living, loving, and surviving in a world of inevitable change and loss,” wrote D’earth at the time of “Ephemera”’s debut.

“The poems are basically a celebration of small moments in life that should be able to happen but that perhaps didn’t happen,” the composer says. “It really resonates with the whole concept of living through a whole life, which is what JABA is all about … dealing with the last phase and the last act.”

JABA, in operation since 1975, provides services to older adults, individuals with disabilities, and caregivers in Charlottesville and the surrounding counties. When UVA stepped forward to work with the organization and wanted to put on a show to support JABA, D’earth thought the marriage was perfect. Jazz, after all, is a genre that speaks to listeners of all ages.

“I think everyone can express themself in jazz. We have different cultures, different countries, but there is a common point in jazz,” Groleau says. “Each song has a story for me. I’m trying to speak about something in my life and share joy. You can be young or older—it is the same feeling.”

“I think everyone can express themself in jazz.”

DAMIEN GROLEAU

John D’earth is joined by accomplished French pianist Damien Groleau and the UVA Jazz Ensemble at the Paramount Theater on Friday.

JACKSON SMITH

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Monday 5/1

music

Berto & Vincent. Fiesta. Free, 7pm. South and Central Latin Grill, Dairy Market. south andcentralgrill.com

Gin & Jazz. The Brian Caputo Trio performs in the Château Lobby Bar. Free, 5:30pm. Oakhurst Inn, 100 Oakhurst Cir. oakhurstinn.com

Nickel Creek. With special guest Hawktail. $39-69, 7pm. Ting Pavilion, 700 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. tingpavilion.com

words

Poplar Forest: The Lost Private World of Thomas Jefferson. Travis McDonald, Poplar Forest’s director of architectural restoration, discusses the award-winning restoration of Jefferson’s plantation. Free, 5pm. Campbell Hall 153, UVA Grounds. arch.virginia.edu

outside

Art Connections. Charlottesville City School students’ artwork displayed along the Downtown Mall. Free, all day. The Downtown Mall. friendsofcville.org

Tuesday 5/2

music

An Evening with Lucinda Williams. The Louisiana-born artist returns to the gritty blues foundation that first inspired her. $4245, 8pm. The Jefferson Theater, 110 E. Main St., Downtown Mall. jeffersontheater.com

Augustana. Performing the Everyday An Eternity tour. $25-28, 8pm. The Southern Café & Music Hall, 103 S. First St. thesouthern cville.com

Thunder Music Karaoke. Show off your singing skills or just enjoy the show. Free, 9pm. Holly’s Diner, 1221 E. Market St. 234-4436

Vincent Zorn. Olé. Free, 7pm. The Bebedero, 225 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. thebebedero.com

Vinyl Night. BYO record to play and get $1 off pints. Free, 4pm. Starr Hill Brewery, Dairy Market, 946 Grady Ave. dairymarketcville.com

Voice Recital by the Students of Stephanie Nakasian. Featuring performances from a variety of genres, including jazz, pop, and rock. Free, 7:30pm. O’Hill Forum, 525 McCormick Rd. music.virginia.edu

words

Women’s Voices: Health, Politics, and Empowerment. A conversation surrounding the concerns of health and politics within the scope of women’s engagement and empowerment. Free, 3pm. Online. engagement.virginia.edu

outside

Playdates at the Playscape. See listing for Friday, April 28. $20, 9:30am. Wildrock, 6600 Blackwells Hollow Rd., Crozet. wildrock.org etc.

Digitalis & Electronic Music Festival. A concert of experimental work for sound and visual media. Free, 8pm. Old Cabell Hall, UVA Grounds. music.virginia.edu

Family Game Night. Games for all ages, including corn hole, Jenga, and board games. Free, 5pm. Dairy Market, 946 Grady Ave. dairymarketcville.com

Geeks Who Drink Trivia Night. Teams of two to six people play for prizes and bragging rights. Free, 8pm. Firefly, 1304 E. Market St. fireflycville.com

Just for kicks

Air is a flat, unnecessary sports story

By Justin Humphreys arts@c-ville.com

Longtime pals Ben Affleck and Matt Damon have re-teamed to make Air, the true story of the development of Nike’s Air Jordan sneakers. If this doesn’t sound like promising material, it isn’t. Although Air, directed by Affleck, undeniably has its moments—and there is plenty of talent involved—overall, it’s a story that isn’t worth devoting an entire feature film to.

In 1984, Nike “basketball guru” Sonny Vaccaro (Damon) becomes intensely driven to sign up-and-coming basketball star Michael Jordan to be Nike’s NBA spokesman and have his own flagship shoe line. Nike CEO Phil Knight (Affleck) basically respects Vaccaro, but, like most of Nike’s staff, has serious doubts about Jordan. Facing competing offers from rivals Adidas and Converse, Vaccaro takes it upon himself to deal directly with Jordan’s parents, Deloris (Viola Davis) and James (Julius Tennon). Like the U.S. president in old movies, Jordan himself is represented, but never faces the camera.

For those who lived during the film’s period, Air’s focus on retro trappings has a certain charm. It is, after all, the origin story of an ’80s pop-culture touchstone, so it continually spills over with contemporary artifacts. The opening montage features clips ranging from a “Where’s the beef?”

ad to Ridley Scott’s dystopian Apple Macintosh commercial—but nostalgia alone can’t carry this film.

Unconventional biopics can be very satisfying, but Air is thin and flat virtually from start to finish. It shoots for the uplifting, rousing spirit of a traditional sports movie, something its predictable climax can’t deliver on. And since the story is peppered with sports allusions and terminology, it loses resonance for anyone with scant interest in basketball.

The cast isn’t at fault here. Among them, Chris Tucker is a standout as Vaccaro’s co-worker, Howard White. As frantic as ever, Tucker lightens Air up whenever he’s onscreen. The other actors are decent, and Damon, Davis, and Tennon generally bring a naturalness to their roles. Sadly, Davis’ pivotal character is deeply underutilized. As sleazy agent David Falk, scene-stealing Chris Messina has some of the film’s funniest moments.

Overall, Affleck’s direction is decent, as is Robert Richardson’s cinematography, and they are at their best when shooting in intimate closeup, letting the actors’ faces tell the story. There are some genuinely engrossing and entertaining scenes, including Vaccaro’s

first sit-down meeting with Mrs. Jordan, and a foul-mouthed phone exchange between Vaccaro and Falk. But to call Air inconsistent is a gigantic understatement.

The biggest problem here is that anyone of a certain age or with a decent knowledge of American pop culture knows how this story ends well in advance. Unlike Affleck’s far better Argo, there is no suspense about who will emerge victorious. And the fact is, the characters here aren’t on some kind of valiant crusade: The most ’80s thing about

Air

R, 112 minutes

Air is its fixation on money. The non-moral of this story seems to be that making gigantic sums of cash is intrinsically great. Darker aspects of Nike’s past, like the heavy criticism it received for its outsourcing practices, is scarcely referred to. Instead, what the audience gets is cheerleading for a sneaker company, and, any way you cut it, the creation and marketing of a basketball shoe is essentially uninteresting. What it all amounts to is plenty of dead air.

Ben Affleck directs and co-stars in Air, the origin story of Nike’s marketing partnership with basketball phenom Michael Jordan.

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, Violet Crown, Regal Stonefield

Unconventional biopics can be very satisfying, but Air is thin and flat virtually from start to finish.

AMAZON STUDIOS

WINE DOWN

WHAT’S DELISH AT LOCAL WINERIES?

CHISWELL FARM WINERY 2021 Cabernet Franc

Our first Cabernet Franc is medium-bodied and moderately tannic. The nose suggests notes of old leather and light smoke. The palate leans towards pepper and black currant, and the finish is smooth. Pair with smoked pulled pork, spaghetti Bolognese, or hamburgers on the grill!

With a glass of one of our award winning wines, enjoy the beautiful scenery from our lawn, or a cozy chair inside, where you’ll discover a variety of inviting spaces. There are many options for outdoor seating, including rocking chairs on the covered porch and dining tables on the lawn for small groups. You’re also welcome to bring your own folding chairs and blankets to sit further out on the hill. All seating is first-come, first-served. Ages 21+, no dogs or other pets permitted on the property. For a family-friendly experience, visit our wine shops at Chiles Peach Orchard or Carter Mountain Orchard. Make sure to check out our exciting events calendar online to stay up-to-date on all things happening at Chiswell!

Wine is currently available by the glass, flight, or bottle. We have a full menu of seasonal boards, paninis, small bites and snacks to pair well with any of our wines (outside food is not permitted). Wine sales stop 30 minutes prior to closing.

Sundays - Brunch featuring mimosas with juices from our farm-grown fruit.

April 30th- Watercolors and Mixed Media Workshop (advanced ticket purchase required)

May 7th- Paint and Sip! (advanced ticket purchase required)

May 14th – Corks & Collage series (advanced ticket purchase required)

Hours: Wed-Sun 11 am – 5:30 pm

430 Greenwood Rd, Greenwood, VA 22943 434.252.2947 • www.chilesfamilyorchards.com/chiswell

53RD WINERY AND VINEYARD

2022 Chardonel

Try our 100% estate grown Chardonel. What I enjoy about this wine is the crisp acidity with its aromas and flavors of green apples, lime zest and citrus. A great mouthfeel throughout the palate makes this a wine that is enjoyable on its own or, as I like wine, paired with food. It will be great with shrimp scampi, chicken piccata, cioppino, or fried chicken, yes, fried chicken! Paired with our recent shrimp boil at the winery, it was perfect. It’s a very versatile wine. Our Chardonel is delightful

with Manchego cheese and some Kalamata olives while enjoying a sunny day. Try something different and authentic. 209 cases made. Drink now through 2026.

A few notes from winegrower and owner, Dave Drillock:

If you are planning a visit, come for the wine and enjoy the chill. We are down to earth and love to share our enthusiasm for wine. We just revel in what we do, growing, making and selling wine! Open 7 days a week, 11am to 5pm, we offer our 100% Virginia wine by the bottle, glass, flight or tasting. Enjoy your visit at our meadow-like setting in rural Louisa County. We offer well-spaced

KESWICK VINEYARDS VERITAS VINEYARDS AND WINERY

indoor and outdoor seating and customers are welcome to bring their own picnic baskets, chairs and blankets. Children and pets are welcome, but pets must always remain outside of buildings and on a leash. Our friendly staff focuses on serving quality wine at a great escape! For more information, visit our website, www.53rdwinery. com.

April 29th - Live music by Bailey Hayes (1-4pm) and Twilight on the Crush Pad - Wine, Kabobs and Cigars (4-7pm). Red wine paired with Kabobs prepared by Sauce Catering and specialty selected cigars to enhance your experience. Check our website for signup details!

May 6th - Albariño Release Party with Salty Bottom Blue Oysters and live music by David Kulund

Open 7 days a week, 11 am – 5 pm

13372 Shannon Hill Rd Louisa, VA 23093

(540) 894-5474 • 53rdwinery.com

for larger parties; as well as bistro seating and cozy couches for smaller groups. Inside the Tasting Room, you’ll find bistro seating and a roaring fireplace. Outdoors, there are a variety of options including patio and firepit seating available year-round (weather permitting), and plenty of green space to walk the grounds or throw a football.

Castle Hill Cider welcomes all guests! We offer non-alcoholic beverage options and a delicious food menu. Well-behaved dogs on a leash are also welcome both indoors and outside. Dogs must remain leashed and with their owners at all times.

Thursdays- Live Music from 5-8! Check our calendar for our selection of artists

Sundays- Royal Tea from 2-4 pm May 7th – Cat Action Team Furball Fair! Celebrate our 5th anniversary, with a silent auction, food trucks, live music, local artisans and more!

Hours:

Thursday 1-8pm Friday 1-7pm

Saturday 11am-5pm Sunday 11am-5pm

6065 Turkey Sag Rd. Keswick, VA 22947 Tasting Room Text/Call: 434.365.9429 www.castlehillcider.com

CROSSKEYS WINERY

Letizia

CASTLE HILL FARM CIDERY

Hewes Crab Pommeau Five Year Reserve

Our Hewes Crab Pommeau, arrested by Gold Rush eau de vie, is the result of over 5 years aging in neutral Hungarian Oak puncheons from Keswick Vineyards. Initial maturations in choice Kentucky bourbon barrels create a layered and complex profile. The appearance of light honey and amber when poured, gives way to subtle tears and gentle legs upon swirling. Delight in a spirituous kiss of bourbon on the nose followed by a gentle lift of caramel, toffee and vanilla. Savor each sip and explore complex flavors, layer by layer. Best served chilled.

Visiting Castle Hill Cider

Our expansive cider barn features a variety of ample seating including Adirondack chairs overlooking the rolling countryside and lake; farm tables

Letizia is ma de from 100% Chambourcin which was picked, processed and fermented specifically for sparkling wine. Chambourcin’s great acidity and fruit flavors are well suited to sparkling rosé; and unique to Letizia is the ripeness at which the grapes are picked. The riper fruit yields bright raspberry aromas along with notes pineapple and guava. Refreshing acidity is balanced by natural residual sugar, which further contributes to tropical fruit flavors on the palate. Vividly pink, vigorously bubbly, and vibrantly fruity.

CrossKeys Vineyards is a family owned and operated winery located in the heart of beautiful Shenandoah Valley. Our approach is to grow, by hand, the highest quality fruit using careful canopy management and yield balance to achieve 100% estate-grown wines that are truly expressive of the varietal and soils here at CrossKeys. Our first vines were planted in 2001 and we have only grown since then. Our 125acre estate currently houses more than 30 acres of vines with plans for more planting in the future. We currently grow 12 varietals of grapes all used

to produce our one of a kind award-winning wines. We offer wine tastings throughout the day. Our knowledgeable tasting room associates will guide you through tasting our wines whether you are a novice or a seasoned veteran. We love large groups and want to make sure your experience at CrossKeys Vineyards is extraordinary. We request that large groups call the vineyard 48 hours in advance to set up a reserved group tasting. The group will have a reserved table, staffing, and a cheese plate included with price.

Mon-Thurs - Winery Tours (by reservation only) at 12:30 pm

Sundays - Royal Tea from 2-4 pm

April 27th – Speak Easy Night

Open Daily from 11- 7pm 6011 E Timber Ridge Rd, Mt Crawford, VA 22841 (540) 234-0505 https://crosskeysvineyards.com/

DUCARD VINEYARDS

Popham Run Red

This lively and bright Bordeaux blend showcases aromas of fresh cherries and uplifting herbal notes. The mouthfeel is harmonious, vibrant, and fresh pairing perfectly with your Sunday brunch and light fare. Our uncrowded rural Madison County area has mountains, streams and plenty of beautiful

views along scenic back roads. The tasting room is near hiking and biking trails along the Shenandoah National Forest and is a perfect respite after your day out! Enjoy some peace and quiet relaxation in this challenging environment. Sit on our lawns and sip or pick up a bottle or three of our award-winning wines to take home. Reservations available and recommended (especially for Saturdays). No reservation fee or minimum purchase. Walkups accommodated on a spaceavailable basis. To order wine for local delivery or UPS shipping, visit our website!

April 29th - Seafood Sunday! Live music and plenty of food from the Nomini Bay Oyster Ranch available (advanced ticket purchase required)

Open daily – Mon-Thurs. 12-5 pm Fri. 12-9 pm Sat/Sun. 12-6 pm

Weekends (Fri-Sun) - Live music Friday-Sunday all month long. Check out our website for details and the musical artist lineup!

40 Gibson Hollow Ln • Etlan, VA 22719 (540) 923-4206 www.ducardvineyards.com

HARK VINEYARDS

2021 Virginia Verde

Flavors of lime, melon, and a slight effervescence giving it that zing! Crafted by our winemaker in a nod

to the tasty and fresh vinho verdes of Portugal, this wine bursts with the optimism of warmer weather and brighter days. Enjoy with oysters, grilled shrimp, or on a warm and sunny porch swing!

Visiting Hark:

Hark Vineyards is a family-owned winery focused on the belief that beautiful views and delicious wine can bring people together. Children and well-behaved four-legged friends are welcome. We welcome — and encourage — you to bring a picnic and enjoy the experience our estate offers.  Some picnic foods such as cheese, charcuterie, jams, crackers, and chocolate are available for purchase. Food trucks and live music most Saturdays from MarchNovember; check our website and social media for details. Our grapes love it here. We think you will, too.

Upcoming events

April 29th – Arepas on Wheels + Gina Sobel and Matt Draper Music

May 6th- Music by Peter Larsen

Hours

Friday – Sunday / 12 noon – 6pm

434-964-9463 (WINE) 1465 Davis Shop Rd, Earlysville, VA 22936 www.harkvineyards.com

HORTON VINEYARDS

2021 Viognier

Viognier was introduced into the state of Virginia by Dennis Horton in 1991. He was met with a lot of opposition, being told it would not grow or produce enough fruit.

Horton released Virginia’s first Viognier in 1992 and produce the world’s first sparkling Viognier just 6 years later in 1998. Dennis has received worldwide attention for his Viognier. Dennis Horton started “Viognier is the red drinkers white.” It is full bodied, bold white has honey aromas and smooth peach and apricot flavors.

WE ARE HIRING!

Want to work in a fun and unique industry? Come visit us at Horton!

We’re looking for tasting room staff to help make memorable experiences for our guests, build our local wine club, and so much more. Give us a call or email for more information: info@ hortonwine.com

May 6th&7th – Town Point Wine Festival, visit us at our booth!

May 19th - Spring Wine Festival and Sunset Tour

Open Daily from 10 am – 5 pm

6399 Spotswood Trail, Gordonsville, Virginia (540) 832-7440 • www.hortonwine.com

KESWICK VINEYARDS

2021 Norton

The nose is fairly pronounced with sour cherries, cranberry, and pomegranate notes with additional notes of earth, forest floor and potpourri. A wine that has the ability to age for quite a few years due to the acidity. We suggest chilling prior to opening, allowing it to breathe for an hour or two. Pair with duck, gamey meats and poultry.

Tasting Room Hours

We look forward to continuing to serve all of our wonderful guests this winter during our daily hours of 10am-5pm (last pour at 4:45). We offer first come, first served seating under our heated tent or open seating in our outdoor courtyard. Wine is available by the flight, glass and bottle at our inside or outside service bars.. A selection of pre-packaged meats, cheeses, crackers, and spreads are available for purchase as well as our new food truck which is currently open Saturday and Sunday from 12p-4p

Bring the family or friends and enjoy live music every Saturday from 124p or play a fun 9 hole of miniature

golf on our new course!

April 29th- Live music by Dave Kuland

1575 Keswick Winery Drive Keswick, Virginia 22947 Tasting Room: (434) 244-3341 ext 105 tastingroom@keswickvineyards.com www.keswickvineyards.com

REVALATION VINEYARDS

2021 Rouge de Rouges

A wonderfully approachable blend made from 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 10% Tannat grapes. Its aromas feature mint, black pepper, prune, green pepper, hops, crushed blueberries and camphor. The mouthfeel is wellbalanced, medium length with soft and gentle tannins. It has a bright finish with hint of lemon.

Virginia is for Wine Lovers! Starting this May, Revalation Vineyards will host a Virginia Varietal Comparative Tasting Series to highlight how different terroir, cultivation practices and winemaker techniques contribute to the flavor, aromas and mouthfeel of wines that are all made from the same grape. Guests will be able to taste each wine and enjoy it alongside expertly paired small plates. Our first event features Tannat on Saturday, May 20th. Tickets will be available on our website, starting April 1st. www. revalationvineyards.com

Hours

Nov. 1 – Apr. 30 Hours: Friday 12 –sunset, Saturday/Sunday 12pm to 5pm

All Month – Vibrant paintings by Kim Gardner are being exhibited until the end of February.

April 30th - New Iberia will be serving their Paella Sunday menu staring at noon.

2710 Hebron Valley Road, Madison, VA 22727 540-407-1236 www.revalationvineyards.com

VERITAS VINEYARDS AND WINERY

2021 Sauvignon Bl anc

Fresh bright acidity is the hallmark of this wine with zesty citrus, Granny Smith apples and a characteristic bite of grapefruit that make up the everything that Sauvignon drinkers love. Enjoy with seafood pastas, bright seasonal salads with goat cheese, and any of our upcoming Supper Series!

Spring/Summer Hours:

Now open Monday-Thursday 11am - 6pm and Friday-Sunday 11am5pm. Cellar tours are now being offered twice a day, everyday. Learn about the vine growth, grape processing, and wine blending during this 30 minute walking tour. $10/person, advanced reservations highly recommended.

What’s on at Veritas!

April 28th: Supper Series

collaboration with Guajiros Miami Eatery *Menu now available! *

May 20th: Graduation Gala multi-course dinner: Gather all your friends and family to celebrate academic achievements! We’ll be serving a multi-course menu with optional wine-pairing and sparkling wine! Perfect for larger groups, reservations recommended.

June 23rd: Supper Series

collaboration with Bloom Wine Bar and Restaurant

STARRY NIGHTS

Announcing the return of the Starry Nights Summer Concert Series. Head to veritaswines.com/veritasstarry-nights for all the details!

151 Veritas Ln, Afton, VA 22920 (540) 456-8000 www.veritaswines.com

BY DAVID LEVINSON WILK

ACROSS

1. W ith 69-Across, actress who’d have a fun time introducing herself on Talk Like a Pirate Day?

5. Some dist ance runners

11. Karaoke venue

14. Atop

15. Mark in the low 90s

16. Org . concerned with mental health

17. Red and Yellow, for two

18. First First Lady

19. Something to build on

20. Actress/inventor who’d have a fun time introducing herself on Talk Like a Pirate Day?

22. Qualified

23. Rejections

24. Put new film into

26. ‘80s-’90s entert ainment combo

29. Actor who’d have a fun time introducing himself on Talk Like a Pirate Day?

32. “Yee-____!”

33. Becomes slippery, in a way

35. “That’s wrong ____ many levels!”

37. How a pirouette is done

38. 1815 novel with the line “You must be the best judge of your own happiness”

42. The casino in “Casino”

45. PC key

46. Best-selling crime novelist who’d have a fun time introducing himself on Talk Like a Pirate Day?

49. Emerged from sleep

51. Ambrose who wrote the 1890 short story “An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge”

52. Ingredient in a Manhattan

53. Supreme Hindu goddess

54. Drummer who’d have a fun time introducing himself on Talk Like a Pirate Day?

61. Cheer for Real Madrid

62. Walking obediently, as a dog

63. DVR pioneer

64. In a bad way

65. Suspect

66. Think piece?

67. Grammy winners ____ Lonely Boys

68. It might produce a six-pointer, for short

69. See 1-Across

DOWN

1. Booty

2. Fencing blade

3. It’s found between the shoulders

4. Well-harmonized

5. Some fiercely protective “bears”

6. Quran authorit y

7. Pre-euro currency

8. ____’acte (intermission)

9. It flows into the Rhine

10. Org . created under FDR

11. Last name in 2015’s “Creed”

12. Electrically balanced, in chemistry

13. Like every Quentin Tarantino movie

21. Greiner of “Shark Tank”

22. Oscar nominee Woodard

25. Broad shoe spec

26. Nevertheless, briefly

27. Touring band’s vehicle

28. Cars spotted in the game punch buggy, for short

29. Game with a lengthy buildup?

30. Up and about

31. Hungr y cow, maybe

34. ____ effort

36. “Scar y Movie” actress Cheri

39. Repeated Warhol subject

40. Time’s 1963 Man of the Year, for short

41. Had wings, say

43. Abbott Elementary” network

44. Declares

46. An “effective anti-seizure medication,” per the Mayo Clinic

47. Danny of “Moonstruck”

48. Video game segments

50. Emmy winner Patricia of “Thirtysomething”

52. Caramel-filled candies

55. Maker of the Split Decision Breakfast

56. “99 Luftballons” singer

57. Understands

58. Verdi opera set in ancient Egypt

59. KOA visitor

60. Katy Perry hit with the lyric “Louder, louder than a lion”

62. NYC dance troupe

ANSWERS

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

By Rob Brezsny

Gemini

(May 21-June 20): I’m turning this horoscope over to Nigerian poet Ijeoma Umebinyuo. She has three messages that are just what you need to hear right now. 1. “Start now. Start where you are. Start with fear. Start with pain. Start with doubt. Start with hands shaking. Start with voice trembling but start. Start and don’t stop. Start where you are, with what you have.” 2. “You must let the pain visit. You must allow it to teach you. But you must not allow it to overstay.” 3. “Write a poem for your 14-year-old self. Forgive her. Heal her. Free her.”

Cancer

(June 21-July 22): Historical records tell us that Chinese Emperor Hongwu periodically dealt with overwhelming amounts of decision-making. During one 10-day phase of his reign, for example, he was called on to approve 1,660 documents concerning 3,391 separate issues. Based on my interpretation of the planetary omens, I suspect you may soon be called on to deal with a similar outpouring. This might tempt you toward overstressed reactions like irritation and self-medication. But I hope you’ll strive to handle it all with dignity and grace. In fact, that’s what I predict you will do. In my estimation, you will be able to summon the extra poise and patience to manage the intensity.

Leo

(July 23-Aug. 22): Is it even possible for us humans to live without fear—if even for short grace periods? Could you or I or anyone else somehow manage to celebrate, say, 72 hours of freedom from all worries and anxieties and trepidations? I suspect the answer is no. We may aspire to declare our independence from dread, but 200,000 years of evolution ensures that our brains are hardwired to be ever-alert for danger. Having provided that perspective, however, I will speculate that if anyone could approach a state of utter dauntlessness, it will be you Leos in the next three weeks. This may be as close as you will ever come to an extended phase of bold, plucky audacity.

Virgo

(Aug. 23-Sept. 22): “Dear Sunny Bright Cheery Upbeat Astrologer: You give us too many sunny, bright, cheery, upbeat predictions. They lift my mood when I first read them, but later

FREE WILL ASTROLOGY Taurus

(April 20-May 20): After the fall of the Roman Empire, political cohesion in its old territories was scarce for hundreds of years. Then a leader named Charlemagne came along and united much of what we now call Western Europe. He was unusual in many respects. For example, he sought to master the arts of reading and writing. Most other rulers of his time regarded those as paltry skills that were beneath their dignity. I mention this fact, Taurus, because I suspect it’s a propitious time to consider learning things you have previously regarded as unnecessary or irrelevant or outside your purview. What might these abilities be?

I’m like, “What the hell?” Because yeah, they come true, but they usually cause some complications I didn’t foresee. Maybe you should try offering predictions that bum me out, since then I won’t have to deal with making such big adjustments.—Virgo Who is Weary of Rosy Hopeful Chirpy Horoscopes.” Dear Virgo: You have alluded to a key truth about reality: Good changes often require as much modification and adaptation as challenging changes. Another truth: One of my specialties is helping my readers manage those good changes. And by the way, I predict the next two weeks will deliver a wealth of interesting and buoyant changes.

Libra

(Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Poet Pablo Neruda wrote, “Let us look for secret things somewhere in the world on the blue shores of silence.” That might serve as a good motto for you in the coming weeks. By my astrological reckoning, you’ll be wise to go in quest for what’s secret, concealed, and buried. You will generate fortuitous karma by smoking out hidden agendas and investigating the rest of the story beneath the apparent story. Be politely pushy, Libra. Charmingly but aggressively find the missing information and the shrouded rationales. Dig as deep as you need to go to explore the truth’s roots.

Scorpio

(Oct. 23-Nov. 21): We’ve all done things that make perfect sense to us, though they might look nonsensical or inexplicable to an outside observer. Keep this fact in your awareness during the next two weeks, Scorpio. Just as you wouldn’t want to be judged by uninformed people who don’t know the context of your actions, you should extend this same courtesy to others, especially now. At least some of what may appear nonsensical or inexplicable will be serving a valuable pur-

pose. Be slow to judge. Be inclined to offer the benefit of the doubt.

Sagittarius

(Nov. 22-Dec. 21): I completely understand if you feel some outrage about the lack of passion and excellence you see in the world around you. You have a right to be impatient with the laziness and carelessness of others. But I hope you will find ways to express your disapproval constructively. The best approach will be to keep criticism to a minimum and instead focus on generating improvements. For the sake of your mental health, I suggest you transmute your anger into creativity. You now have an enhanced power to reshape the environments and situations you are part of so they work better for everyone.

Capricorn

(Dec. 22-Jan. 19): In the 17th century, renowned Capricorn church leader James Ussher announced he had discovered when the world had been created. It was at 6pm on October 22 in the year 4004 BCE. From this spectacularly wrong extrapolation, we might conclude that not all Capricorns are paragons of logic and sound analysis 100 percent of the time. I say we regard this as a liberating thought for you in the coming weeks. According to my analysis, it will be a favorable time to indulge in wild dreams, outlandish fantasies, and imaginative speculations. Have fun, dear Capricorn, as you wander out in the places that singer Tom Petty referred to as “The Great Wide Open.”

Aquarius

(Jan. 20-Feb. 18): We often evaluate prospects quantitatively: how big a portion do we get, how much does something cost, how many social media friends can we add? Quantity does matter in some cases, but on other oc-

casions may be trumped by quality. A few close, trustworthy friends may matter more than hundreds of Instagram friends we barely know. A potential house may be spacious and affordable, but be in a location where we wouldn’t enjoy living. Your project in the coming weeks, Aquarius, is to examine areas of your life that you evaluate quantitatively, and determine whether there are qualitative aspects neglected in your calculations.

Pisces

(Feb. 19-March 20): “Dear Dr. Astrology: Help! I want to know which way to go. Should I do the good thing or the right thing? Should I be kind and sympathetic at the risk of ignoring my selfish needs? Or should I be a pushy stickler for what’s fair and true, even if I look like a preachy grouch? Why is it so arduous to have integrity?—Pinched Pisces.” Dear Pisces: Can you figure out how to be half-good and half-right? Half-self-interested and half-generous? I suspect that will generate the most gracious, constructive results.

Aries

(March21-April 19): According to a study by Newsweek magazine, 58 percent of us yearn to experience spiritual growth; 33 percent report having had a mystical or spiritual experience; 20 percent of us say we have had a revelation from God in the last year; and 13 percent have been in the presence of an angel. Given the astrological omens currently in play for you Aries, I suspect you will exceed all those percentages in the coming weeks. I hope you will make excellent use of your sacred encounters. What two areas of your life could most benefit from a dose of divine assistance or intervention? There’s never been a better time than now to seek a deus ex machina.

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

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Name: Zach Miller.

Hometown: Charlottesville.

Job: Full-time dad, part-time jockey, farmer and owner of Timbercreek Farm, horse trainer.

How did you get into racing: I grew up riding ponies, my grandma always had a pony around. I really liked going fast, I got really into it and I competed a bit in some different disciplines, so when the opportunity presented itself I went to work in Fairhill, Maryland, for a trainer there. One thing about me is, I’m a normal-sized human being, so I was never gonna be small enough to ride on the flat—that’s the Derby. So I got into riding steeplechase races because the weights are a little higher, and they’re jumping too, so that was fun.

Do you remember your first race: I do, my first jump race I rode in Fairfax County in the spring of 2003. I rode a horse called Sail My Vessel, he was the little horse that could, he was a smaller horse, but he was a lot of fun. I finished third on him that day.

in terrain and turns, the fastest way around might be slightly on the outside. So some tactical preparation. Making sure I’m centered and my head is clear. What’s going through your mind when the gates open: First I make sure the horse is settled and jumping well, and don’t get in a hurry. The race is two miles, and it’s a very testing track. Riders can get impatient and rush it. Then you have to pay attention to what’s going on around you strategically—how are the horses around you doing, how much horse are you sitting on, where do you need to start thinking about making a move.

Chasing victory

Chasing victory

This Saturday, Zach Miller will be one of many jockeys competing for a win at Foxfield Races, Charlottesville’s bi-annual steeplechase event. It’s a meaningful homecoming, years in the making, for the Charlottesville native, who’s raced, and won, at Foxfield numerous times—Miller even met his wife after a 2005 win. Foxfield has been hosting steeplechase races in Albemarle County since 1977, with the spring races often attracting up to 15,000 locals and visitors. The steeplechase is a distance horse racing event with ditch obstacles and fence jumps. The strange name stems from the race’s origins in Ireland, where riders raced from church steeple to church steeple. foxfieldraces.com

When did you become a professional jockey: I took out my first license when I was 18, and I was a full-time, professional jockey until I was 23. You’re headed to Foxfield next, have you raced there before: That’s my hometown track, that’s my favorite! Over the years I’ve probably ridden in a dozen or more races. But this will be my first ride at Foxfield in 17 years.

How does it feel to be back: Amazing!

It’s my favorite track.

Favorite part of being a jockey: Winning races.

Second favorite part: What you get to do on race day is you get to put together all the fun parts with the tactical parts. Steeplechasing requires some tactics, it’s not just going as fast as you can. It’s a test of skill of

the rider, it’s challenging... if your tactics are wrong or your horse isn’t jumping well. You’re moving 35 miles an hour, surrounded by thousands of pounds of horse. It’s thrilling.

Do you have a race-day routine: Nothing really special. I always walk the course, look at how it’s set up, what’s the fastest way around—it’s not always the inside. You have to factor

Who are you riding on Saturday: I get to do this for a guy named Richard Valentine, he’s a trainer who’s given me some tremendous opportunities. He put me on a winner in Saratoga, he’s the trainer of Remonstrative, he’s [a] top 10 trainer. There are two horses I can ride, Sea Mast or Tease and Seize. Sea Mast is an American Kentucky-bred, I won a prep race on him two weeks ago. He has a high turning speed, his specialty is grinding competition to a pulp. Tease and Seize is a French horse, he’s a tremendous athlete, you could leave a little for later with him.

What’s something about being a jockey that people would be surprised to learn: How challenging it is to ride a horse. My heart rate riding a horse peaks higher and quicker than when I run four miles on foot. There’s a lot of balance and strength, but you’re also pretty active on the horse, you think the horse is doing all the running and work, but that’s not totally true.

Proudest accomplishment: Making it to 39 years old and being able to stay riding and competing.

Favorite horse movie: I like them all. National Velvet is a classic, I’d be remiss to not mention it, it’s an old one with Elizabeth Taylor. I love Seabiscuit, it’s an underdog story. And Secretariat is cool because he’s Virginia bred, he’s the hometown hero.

RICK STILLINGS