A few weeks ago, my wife and I had the opportunity to visit Charlottesville, Virginia. Having been invited to speak at the University of Virginia, we were hosted by former Long Islanders, Janet and George Larie. They kept Phoebe and me very busy touring beautiful Charlottesville and Mr. Jefferson's Monticello. By the way, real Virginians always respectfully use the "Mr." and not just Thomas Jefferson. Noted for his writing of the Declaration of Independence and his service as president of the country, he was most proud of his role in creating the University of Virginia.

Charlottesville is a beautiful city with its tone clearly set by the prestigious University of Virginia. I cannot emphasize enough the sedate and simple sophistication of the city.

The university campus covers a large area of the city and employs some 15,000 people. Designed for the most part by Mr. Jefferson, the university is pristinely manicured with its buildings graciously maintained. Touring the Rotunda and the Academical Village were the high points of our visit. Any description of these facilities would be an injustice. The magnificent structures have to be seen in order to be fully appreciated. Mr. Jefferson clearly left his mark on the University of Virginia. Another interesting part of the university is the preservation of Edgar Allen Poe's dormitory room. Poe entered the university in 1826.

Traveling a few miles out of the city, Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's home, is a must stop for visitors. Mr. Jefferson, the intellect, read in seven languages. His book room contained several thousand volumes concentrating in the law, history and politics.

Noted for its Jeffersonian architecture, Monticello is also unique because of Jefferson's inventions throughout the house. For example, the entrance hall has a clock with weights that mark the day of the week. Holes have been put into the floor so that the weights can reach Saturday in the lower level of the home. Outside of the home is a garden cut out of the side of a hill. Jefferson cultivated some 250 varieties of vegetables and herbs.

And if Mr. Jefferson was not enough for the area, one of President James Monroe's homes is nearby. Much simpler, Ash Lawn - Highland is also available for visitors. The home has been beautifully restored with personal furniture throughout. If you get to Charlottesville, do not miss a trip to President Monroe's farm.

If you would like to learn more about Charlottesville, one place to start is the web site for Monticello -- www.monticello.org. Enjoy your visit.