The sport of queens

A delightful side effect of writing this column is that people in my life now give me ideas based on their bucket lists and more obscure interests. When a friend said she’d always wanted to try falconry and asked if I would join her, “Heck yeah!” was my nigh-instant response. Like many wheezy, middle-aged folks, […]

Local therapists and researchers take on psych’s buzziest topic

Renee Branson considered herself a resilient person. She suffered a sexual assault in her late teens but soldiered on. She earned a bachelor’s degree at Ohio State University and a master’s in counseling psychology at the University of Colorado Denver. She built an outwardly happy home life and went into business helping others overcome their […]

Gallery Rally

The scene is set for a sideshow spectacular at this year’s Gallery Rally. Showcasing an eclectic collection of local artists creating works live in the gallery, the event gives visitors an opportunity to meet creators, witness the artistic process, and purchase freshly made pieces on the spot. All artworks are priced at $100, and all […]

Willie Watson

Willie Watson, Americana singer-songwriter and founding member of Old Crow Medicine Show, brings more than 30 years of musical experience to the stage with songs exploring torment and redemption. Through stories of heartbreak, hurt, hope, and growth, Watson channels old-time American folk, weaving in contemporary reflections on loss, love, addiction, and burdens in a complex […]

“A Christmas Carol”

There are plenty of reasons why Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol has spawned so many adaptations. And whether you prefer the lead miser be played by Michael Caine surrounded by Muppets, Bill Murray learning lessons about 1980s corporate greed, or an animated Jim Carrey in Disneyfied 3D, the main plot point stays the same: Can […]

Advice for dining at The Clifton’s 1799

Included in the 2024 Michelin Green Guide USA East, The Clifton was built in 1799 as a home for Thomas Jefferson’s daughter Martha and her husband. The property currently houses a boutique hotel and restaurant helmed by Executive Chef Matthew Bousquet. On a crisp November evening, I decided to see what all the excitement was […]

LA LOM with The National Reserve

Friday 12/6 at The Southern Café and Music Hall LA LOM, an acronym for the Los Angeles League of Musicians, floats out a dreamy-yet-driving instrumental soundtrack with West Coast cool. More of a three-piece than a league, per se, the band’s sound careens smoothly through adventurous, succinct tracks that lilt with well-placed, heartbreaking chords and […]

December Exhibitions

The Center at Belvedere 540 Belvedere Blvd. “Small Works Art Exhibit,” featuring works under 13 inches by regional artists. Through December 18.  Chroma Projects Inside Vault Virginia, Third St. SE. In the micro gallery, “The Close and Holy Darkness,” sculpture and paintings by Aggie Zed. Through December. First Friday reception 5–7pm. City Clay 700 Harris […]

Thankful Dead

As you prepare for the big feast this Thursday, why not start off with a side of jam? The table is set for an evening of Americana music at Thankful Dead, featuring early Grateful Dead tunes performed by local five-piece group Mama Tried, and covers of Jerry Garcia Band songs by Sisters & Brothers. It’s […]