Food + Beverage

Where Passion Meets the Perfect Terroir

Wine crafted with heart, skill, and history. Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by Jen Fariello and Southwest Mountain Vineyards In 2023, after over two decades of winemaking at Groot Constantia in South Africa, Boela Gerber made the decision to transition to Southwest Mountains Vineyards in Keswick, Virginia. The expansive vineyard, owned by Paul and Diane Manning, boasts approximately 67 acres of vines that are harvested each year, and the fruits of Boela and his team’s labor can be...

Life + Culture

Men Moving with Purpose

Local F3 member Dan Purnell shared what the organization is and how men can get involved. Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by F3 Charlottesville Full name of the organization:   F3 - Fitness, Fellowship & Faith. To be clear, faith has no particular denomination. We define faith as the belief in something bigger than yourself.  What are the core tenets of F3? Free of Charge: All workouts are free to attend, ensuring accessibility for anyone. Open to All Men: ...

Life + Culture

Celebrate Dad Locally

Kid-friendly and grown-up-approved Father's Day fun Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by Aaron Watson Whether you're celebrating a Dad with young children or a father of adults, there are plenty of places to enjoy the day together in or near Charlottesville. We've rounded up a handful of them, with a couple that are fit for early gatherings, too.   Kick off Father’s Day weekend under the stars on Friday night. Visit Big Meadows in Shenandoah National Park for a night with Rich Drumm...

Life + Culture

Leading with Skill and Compassion

Where expert care meets community connection. Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by James Lisowski and Cece Rooney Dr. Bobby Chhabra has dedicated his entire career to UVA Medical Center and School of Medicine, joining the faculty in 2002 and serving as Chair of Orthopedic Surgery since 2013. Under his leadership, the department has more than doubled in size and developed the UVA Orthopedic Center, a project he considers one of his proudest accomplishments. "It took ten years to open...

Travel

Discover Roanoke’s Charm

Explore Roanoke’s food, shopping, vibrant arts scene, and outdoor adventures. Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by Contributing Photographers Just two hours from Charlottesville, Roanoke is an ideal destination for a weekend trip for couples, families, or groups of friends. Its 100-foot-high illuminated steel star has earned it the nickname Star City, and its multitude of biking trails are to thank for its recognition as the Mountain Bike Capital of the East. But there are plenty of...

Real Estate

Local Agent's Top Tips

Insider tips from a longtime local real estate agent helping buyers and sellers succeed. Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by Contributing Photographers What are the top three things buyers should prioritize when touring potential homes?  Location above anything. Architectural elements can be changed, but the location can’t. Be sure you love where your home is located: the surrounding area, the neighborhood, the commute to and from work and activities, etc. Can you truly afford it...

Life + Culture

From Charlottesville to Grammy

A Charlottesville native’s journey from street performer to singer and Grammy-winning fiddler. Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by Contributing Photographers At just three years old, Bronwyn Keith-Hynes, who grew up in Charlottesville, set her sights on becoming a fiddler. Not only did she achieve her goal, but she’s garnered some of the industry’s top awards. In 2021 and 2022, the dedicated musician was awarded Fiddle Player of the Year by the International Bluegrass Music...

Life + Culture

Charming Ways to Celebrate Mom

Celebrate with moms, grandmothers, or someone special at these spots offering everything from relaxation to adventure. Article by Katie McFarland and Jennifer Waldera Mother’s Day is the perfect time to celebrate the amazing moms or special ladies in our lives, and what better way to do that than by treating them to a special experience? Whether she loves the outdoors, enjoys a cozy picnic, or prefers a bit of pampering, we’ve rounded up some great ideas to make her day unforgettable, thanks...

Food + Beverage

An Elevated Tropical Mimosa for Mom's Special Day

Experienced chef Asha Clare has crafted the perfect customizable cocktail to raise a toast in honor of Mom. Article by Asha Clare and Jennifer Waldera | Photography by Asha Clare and Emily Marcella Brand Photography A vibrant splash of passion fruit transforms and elevates a traditional brunch favorite into something luxe and artisanal. Passion Fruit Mimosas maintain the core beauty and simplicity of a mimosa, while lending depth and complexity to its classic citrus profile. The resulting...

Food + Beverage

Science, Art, and the Vine

Emily Hodson is an award-winning female winemaker in Central Virginia artfully blending her love for nature, agriculture, and science into every bottle. Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by Jeremy Chapline/@thecharredcask In 2001, Emily Hodson decided to take a break from her career in infectious diseases and initially intended to take a few months to work on her family’s recently purchased farm, which is now Veritas Vineyard & Winery. Since then, Hodson has earned a Master’s in...