These hidden spots will keep you cool this summer

By Sashank Sankar There are three types of people during the summer. The first choose to stay within the comforts of air conditioning. The second like to be outdoors, but not too far from civilization, only venturing to swimming pools and local parks. The third have an adventurous streak. And if you fall within that […]

The Pet Issue: Let me tell you ’bout my best friend

For many of us, the relationship we have with our pet is the best one we’ve ever had. He never gets moody, he listens when you talk and he’s still interested in cuddles despite having seen you naked so many thousands of times. This issue takes into account the good, bad and furry side of […]

Living Picks: Week of July 11-17

Nonprofit CASPCA benefit Thursday, July 12 Dining out can benefit more than your stomach: Mention Charlottesville-Albemarle SPCA on July 12, and 10 percent of your check at Bonefish Grill will go to animals-in-need. Price varies, 11am-10pm. Bonefish Grill, 269 Connor Dr. 975-3474. Food & Drink Anniversary party Saturday, July 14 Albemarle CiderWorks is hosting a […]

Day trip: A day with kids in the museums of Richmond

We’re lucky to have Richmond. As a mid-size city, it can offer certain things that Charlottesville doesn’t, but it’s small enough that it’s simple to navigate. And when I took my kids there recently, I was surprised—as I often am—at how easy it is to get there. That’s not even counting I-64, which might be […]

Virginia craft beer pioneer focuses on the people

By Jenny Gardiner and Sashank Sankar It seems that thinking small is the key for Charlottesville native Mark Thompson and his wife, Gina, who recently opened Brewing Tree Beer Company on the Brew Ridge Trail, in Nelson County. Thompson, who co-founded Starr Hill Brewery (the second-oldest craft brewery in the state) nearly 20 years ago […]

LIVING Picks: July 4-10

Food & Drink ’90s summer brunch Sunday, July 8 Break out your scrunchies and slap bracelets and enjoy throwback ’90s covers from Supervixen during a brunch with killer views. Admission is free; food available for purchase, 11am-2pm. Carter Mountain Orchard, 1435 Carters Mountain Trail. 977-1833. Family Independence Day celebration Wednesday, July 4 Come to Monticello […]

Sugar Shack and Quality Pie sweeten the deal

By Jenny Gardiner The recent summer heat seems to demand curative sweets to help temper the constant weather discomforts. Luckily, sugary treats (and more!) are featured on the menu at two new Charlottesville eateries opening this week. If you’re like Homer Simpson (and who isn’t?), you probably live for your next delicious donut. Fortunately, Sugar […]

Holiday hits: Fourth of July

This week you won’t be able to wave a sparkler without hitting a parade, concert or fireworks display. Here’s a list of some our favorite Independence Day happenings. June 29-July 4 July 4th Jubilee The United States is having a birthday and Wintergreen Resort is hosting a four-day celebration with live music, a bonfire, arts […]

Dennis Horton was an innovative pioneer for Virginia wine

Dennis Horton of Horton Vineyards died June 19 at age 73, but his enduring vision for Virginia wine lives on. Horton helped shape a generation of winemakers by introducing them to now-iconic Virginia wines made from Viognier, Norton, Rkatsiteli, Tannat grapes and more. In a 2016 article about Horton Vineyards, Horton referenced his “willingness to confront […]