Life + Culture

Contributing to Community

Local Realtor serves Charlottesville and beyond both on and off the job. Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by Jamie Waller and Jen Fariello Realtor Jamie Waller uses her knowledge and skills to help people in Charlottesville and beyond with either the sale of their current home or by leading the search for their next dream home. But when she’s not enthusiastically assisting buyers and sellers, she spends her time giving back to the community in a plethora of other ways. How do you...

Food + Beverage

Savory Seafood Stew

Palladio’s Executive Chef Michael Clough shares his nostalgic seafood stew. Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by Michael Clough, Alyson Foldvary, Luca Paschina During the holiday season, there are some traditional foods that are always a staple at holiday gatherings. But every now and then, it's exciting to add a fresh twist to the spread with a new dish. For inspiration, we reached out to Executive Chef Michael Clough of Palladio Restaurant at Barboursville Vineyards. Growing up in...

Life + Culture

Must Visit Holiday Markets for Festive Fun

Find gifts made by local artisans for family, friends, staff members, or service workers. Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by Contributing Photographers Charlottesville Holiday Market Charlottesville is known for having myriad opportunities to purchase goods from local makers, including at its various farmers markets. On Saturdays from November 30 through December 21, those looking for ways to support locals by purchasing holiday or year-end gifts can head to Water Street to find...

Life + Culture

Twice is Nice: Thrift With Purpose

This community-driven thrift shop supports seniors and promotes sustainability in Charlottesville. Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by Twice is Nice Nestled in the heart of Charlottesville, Twice is Nice is more than just a thrift shop -- it’s a cornerstone of community support in Charlottesville. Since opening in the early 1980s, this 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization has been making an impressive impact by promoting sustainability and offering clothes, home goods, jewelry, and other...

Life + Culture

Show Thanks by Giving Back

Contributing to these local non-profits that enhance Charlottesville gives back to the entire community. Article by Jennifer Waldera Charlottesville Community Bikes This non-profit organization is dedicated to making cycling accessible for everyone and supporting transportation that positively benefits the environment. Last year it distributed over 1400 bikes and prevented more than 1700 bicycles from filling up landfills. Charlottesville Community Bikes offers programs that include...

Food + Beverage

Perfect Pairings with Thanksgiving Plates

We have the ultimate guide to Thanksgiving wines with top pairing tips from local wine expert Will Curley from The Wine Guild. Article by Jennifer Waldera What are some great picks for wines to kick off Thanksgiving Day?  Bubbles! The Curley family go-to in recent years has been the Rosemont of Virginia Extra Brut. Made entirely from Chardonel, and so versatile that we drink it all day, make spritzes of it using the delish Rosemont of Virginia Vermouth, and even sneak a glass at the table...

Arts + Culture

Local Artist Loves Life in Charlottesville

This plein air artist appreciates all that Charlottesville has to offer. Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by Randy Smith Randy Smith began painting as a child, growing up in New Jersey and inspired by his family of artists and fueled with reams of paper to draw and paint on. Now, he is a well-known plein air artist who can be spotted around Charlottesville, regularly painting the local scenery.  “I’m always on the sidewalk. I sit out in front of the Rotunda, I meet everyone, and...

Food + Beverage

Local Chefs Dish Out Thanksgiving Twists

These chefs have just what you need to dress up your Thanksgiving spread. Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by Contributing Photographers From cranberry sauce to turkey there are some traditional dishes that tend to grace many Thanksgiving dinner tables. However, if you’re looking for a twist on classics or even something entirely different to add to your festive meal, these local chefs have some inspiration for you. Switch up the Star of the Show Benos Bustamante of Conmole...

Food + Beverage

Publisher's Picks

James Lisowski dishes out his personal picks for local restaurants Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by James Lisowski and Contributing Photographers Alley Light This speakeasy-style hidden spot off the Downtown Mall is the perfect place for sipping and snacking. Grab a loungy seat in the leather chairs and watch passersby or settle in at a table or the bar. Not to miss: Bone Marrow, Beef Tartare, Dealer’s Choice cocktail, and wine from their extensive list. Birdhouse Nestled in...

Food + Beverage

Explore Virginia's Wine With an Expert

The Wine Guild's Will Curley Shares His Insight on Virginia Wine Article by Jennifer Waldera | Photography by Priscilla Curley With experience that spans from time at a James Beard award-winning restaurant in Chicago to heading up Brasserie Saison’s wine program in Charlottesville, Will Curley knows a thing or two about wine. We caught up with him to chat about Virginia’s vino.   Tell us about your background in regard to wine. I was a mid-20’s career changer who moved to Chicago to work...