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May/June 2012
HEALTH
www.RichmondNavigator.com
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Contents Travel 8
Alabama A Break from the Ordinary
Flavor 11
Maitre D’ Restaurant Guide
12
Discount Cards
15
Authentic Mexican at Plaza Azteca Good, Affordable Food at Turner’s
17
In Search of Breakfast
18
Scoop Du Jour Restaurant News
19
Calendar of Events
Business Watch 20 27
Care Advantage Offers Personalized Medical Care at Home Ashland Feed Store Serving Customers for Nearly a Century Lube Tech Offers Local Auto Service
KIDS! 21 23 25
Creating Kid-Friendly Spaces Hanover Kids Helping the Community Time to Party!
Seniors 29
Tips for Aging Gracefully How We Play
About our cover: Omelets at Homemades by Suzanne are made-to-order and served with fresh fruit and tomato cheese toast. See more great Hanover breakfasts on page 17 . Photo by Robert Thomas.
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May/June 2012
PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER William J. Davis, Jr. VICE-PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Cheryl T. Davis CONTRIBUTING HOME & GARDEN EDITOR Vicki O’Neal, ASID, CID CREATIVE DIRECTOR Alaina Rauth MARKETING MANAGER Lorraine Meade DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Barry Cook ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Jared Davis, Ann Small, Jennifer Thaxton PHOTOGRAPHER Tim Hill Robert Thomas CONTRIBUTORS Steve Cook, Tammie Wersinger, Erin Pittman, Peyton Dowdy, Missy Watts, Kellie Murphy
Hanover Lifestyle Magazine is published bi-monthly by Advertising Concepts, Inc., 6301 Harbourside Drive, Midlothian VA 23112. (804) 639-9994. www.advertisingconceptsinc.com Email us: info@advertisingconceptsinc.com Letters to the editor are welcome. All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.
A Publication Of:
All Articles And Contents Of This Magazine Are Not Necessarily The Opinions Or Thoughts Of Hanover Lifestyle Magazine, Advertising Concepts, Inc., Or The Publisher.
www.RichmondNavigator.com
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DESTINATIONS
Alabama
A Break From the Ordinary By Steve Cook.
5 Rivers: Alabama’s Delta Resource Center. Photo by Debbie Denson of MyShotz.com.
L
© Spectrum Resorts
ooking for someplace new and different to take the family for vacation this summer… somewhere you’ve never been before? Maybe you’ve done Disney to death. If you’re like many of us, here in the Mid-Atlantic, you’ve probably spent most of your summer
vacations up and down the Atlantic coast.
Why not try the Gulf Coast for a change? I’ve recently discovered the Gulf Shores and
ACCOMMODATIONS
Orange Beach area of Alabama (www.gulfshores.com or www.orangebeach.com). There are plenty of activities for the entire family, and it makes for a great change-of-pace vacation.
I’m predicting you’ll fall in love with the sugar-white sand beaches. If you’re thinking oil
spill, forget about it. The beach was the cleanest I’ve seen, anywhere. And, as for the water,
not only was it clean and swimmable, but for those with small children, or who are not espe-
In Orange Beach, we stayed at the Turquoise Place. All I can say is, “Wow!” For a few days, I knew what it must feel like to be a millionaire. All things considered, the most fantastic accommodations, I’ve ever
cially interested in fighting the waves, the calm waters of the Gulf are very welcoming.
enjoyed. Check it out at www.turquoiseplace.spectrumresorts.com.
BEYOND THE BEACH
In Mobile, check out (and check into)
On Alabama’s Gulf Coast you get much more than just the beach. There’s plenty to do for
the Battle House. (www.marriott.com)
every member of the family.
Hurricane Ivan, in 2004. This family-friendly zoo offers parents and kids alike a close-up and personal view of its nearly 300 animals. (www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.org)
About an hour’s drive west of Orange Beach lies Mobile. In some ways, Mobile is like a
miniature New Orleans. The architecture in the downtown area is very similar. And yet, if you’ve brought the kids along, I think you’ll find Mobile much more family-friendly. Combining a rich history, with culture, nature, and great dining, Mobile is well worth the visit.
Nearby, enjoy a pontoon safari at 5 Rivers – Alabama’s Delta Resource Center, located in
Spanish Fort. A visit to Dauphin Island, in the Gulf of Mexico, is somewhat a trip back in
time. The nearly 200-year-old Fort Gaines offers a simple, yet fascinating excursion, as does
DINING The Hangout, Gulf Shores – On the beach. Great seafood in a fun, informal setting. (www.thehangoutal.com) The Compleat Angler - Mobile area.
the George F. Crozier Estuarium. Visit the island and vacation like it’s 1959. And I mean that
Enjoy the deck and the fantastic seafood
One more must-see, if you spend any time in Mobile, is the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science
Wintzell’s Oyster House – Downtown
in the best possible way.
Center. It’s extremely hands-on and sure to please young and old. Don’t miss the Body Works exhibit (www.mobilebay.org). n 8
© 2001 Adams Imaging
Located just blocks from the beach in Gulf Shores, you’ll find the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.
Known as “The Little Zoo That Could,” due to its resiliency after being virtually destroyed by
(www.compleatanglergrill.com) Mobile. A truly one-of-a-kind kind of place (www.wintzellsoysterhouse.com)
May/June 2012
www.RichmondNavigator.com
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Making An Investment In Your
DENTAL HEALTH Just about everyone appreciates a good
investment tip, especially when that investment pays fantastic dividends. here’s a tip that’s a pretty sure bet…
So
Invest in good, personal, dental health,
by exercising preventive dental care. It’s one of the soundest investments one can
make, and, it only requires a small commitment of your time and money, while offering a tremendous payoff!
Begin your investment “portfolio”
now by scheduling regular check-ups. The old saying, “An ounce of prevention
is worth a pound of cure,” certainly holds true when it comes to one’s teeth. A small
investment now can save you from spend-
ing future dollars while enduring considerable discomfort.
To illustrate: You may think it’s wise to
hold off having a cracked molar crowned.
You may even believe that you are saving
yourself money by so doing. However,
that relatively small investment now will
be much less expensive than extensive bridgework later.
Here’s another tip, which requires a
very small upfront monetary investment.
Regular brushing and flossing will help control tooth decay and gum disease, both of which can be quite costly to correct.
Of course, as with any investment op-
portunity, the final decision rests with you.
Just keep in mind that an investment in
preventive dental care now, can result in a lifetime of benefits to you. n
Dr. Baxter Perkinson & Associates have ten convenient locations in the Richmond and surrounding areas that can assist you in creating your youthful smile. For a location near you, visit wbperkinson.com.
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May/June 2012
BLT. Homemades by Suzanne kicks a classic BLT up
Maitre D’
a notch with homemade bread and fresh Hanover tomatoes, when available. (homemadesbysuzanne. com) Photo by Robert Thomas. Find more ISO Dishes at richmondnavigator.com.
Restaurant Guide
Awful Arthur’s
Plaza Azteca
Anna’s
Gus’ Italian Cafe & Sports Bar
Get a taste of the sea any way you want it at Awful Arthur’s. From the raw bar or on a bun to over pasta or salad, you’re sure to find an entree to suit your tastes. Or design a platter of your favorites grilled, blackened, broiled or fried! 6078 Mechanicsville Tpke. 559-4370. www.awfularthurs.com
Come get all your Italian favorites like pizza, salads, pasta, seafood and subs in a casual atmosphere! Anna’s is a perfect spot to take the family for a tasty pizza! 7009 Mechanicsville Tnpk. 730-7203.
Q Barbecue
Smoky pulled pork, pulled chicken, brisket and ribs are all served up in a relaxed atmosphere. Pair with your favorite sides like greens, potato salad and mac and cheese. 1070 Virginia Center Pkwy. 261-7227. qbarbecue.com
This new Richmond favorite is making its way to Hanover with its new location. Try their Molcajete Azteca–a hot stone filled with ribeye steak, chicken, shrimp, poblano peppers, onions, chunks of pineapple, and honey pasilla sauce. Pair it with a Texas margarita and tableside guacamole for the full experience! 10099 Brook Road,
The place where good friends, good food and fun come together. You’ll come in for the 13 TV screens showing all of your favorite games. You’ll come back for the excellent pizza, wings and the big, juicy burgers. Hanover Square Shopping Center. 1139-A Bell Creek Rd. 730-9620.
Brick Oven Pizza
Now Brick Oven’s great food is available for catering at your next event! Any size occasion can be catered on budget. Big Game specials are ready for a stressfree Sunday! College students ask about special discounts. Smoking section in restaurant. 139 Hill Carter Pkwy. Ashland. 798-0495. www.brickovenpizza.com
Dining | NIGHTLIFE | EVENTS | TRAVEL | SPORTS | THE ARTS
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$1000 OFF Full Service Oil Change
LUBE TECH
Any Green Egg Package
10 Minute Oil Change Center & 24 Hour Car Wash
Offer Expires 7/10/12
7225 Bell Creek Rd., Ste 238 I 804.746.5555 I See Ad on Page 2
9080 Atlee Station Rd. | 804.569.1888 | www.lubetechoil.com | See Ad on Page 18
FREE Soil Test
Buy One Sub, Get a Second Sub for
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Anna’s
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795-5564 l greenercreations.com I
See Ad on Page 7
See Ad on Page 13
Offer ends 7/31/12.
Any $25 Purchase
Purchase of $2500 or More.
THE PATRON
Mexican restaurant 7610 Left Flank Road. | 804.559.6745 | See Ad on Page 16
$1000 OFF Any $50 Purchase 120 Thompson St. | 804.798.8431 | ashlandfeedstore.com | See Ad on Page 26
1/2 OFF
1/2 OFF*
Buy One Entree and Get 2nd Entree 1/2 OFF*
Buy One Pizza and Get 2nd Pizza 1/2 OFF*
*Equal or lesser value.
*equal or lesser value.
Brick Oven Pizza 139 Hill Carter Pkwy. I Ashland I 798-0495 I
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7009 Mechanicsville Tnpk. | 804.730.7203 |
$500 OFF
$500 OFF
Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria
Flavor
See Ad on Page 26
GUS’ ITALIAN CAFE & SPORTS BAR
Hanover Square Shopping Center | 730-9620 |
See Ad on Page 26
american
Cold Harbour Restaurant 8153 Mechanicsville Tpke. Mechanicsville. 746-4333. Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In. Casual. Reservations not needed.
Farmer Johnsons 7610 Left Flank Road. 559-0111. www.farmerjohnsons.com Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take-Out. Casual
The Hanover Cafe 13185 Hanover Courthouse Rd. Hanover. 537-5290. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In. Casual. Reservations not needed.
Hanover Tavern Restaurant & Pub 13181 Hanover Courthouse Road. Hanover. 537-5050. www.hanovertavern.org. Brunch, Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take out. Casual. Reservations suggested.
Ironhorse Restaurant 100 N Railroad Ave. Ashland. 752-6410. www.ironhorserestaurant.com. Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take out. Casual. Reservations not needed.
O’Banks CafÊ & Grill 10392 Leadbetter Rd. Ashland. 550-3888. www.obanks.org. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take out. Casual. Reservations not needed.
Riverbound Cafe 8005 Creighton Parkway. Mechanicsville. 559-3663. www.riverboundcafe.com. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In. Casual. Reservations not needed.
barbecue
Virginia BBQ Company 600 England Street. 752-4838. www.virginiabbq.com. Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take out. Casual. Reservations not needed.
chinese Asian Buffet
Laburnum Square Shopping Center. 4734 Finlay Street. 804-222-8545. Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take out. Casual. Reservations not needed.
Ginger Red Asian Bistro 7500 Jackson Arch Dr. Mechanicsville. 427-7256. www.GingerRed.com. Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In, Take-out & Delivery. Casual. Reservations not needed.
Peking Restaurant 7100 Mechanicsville Tnpk. 730-9898. www.pekingdining.com. Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take out. Casual. Reservations not needed.
For more restaurants:
RichmondNavigator .com
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coffee, tea & bakery
italian
mexican & southwest
100 N. Railroad Avenue. 798-1702. www.ashlandcoffeeandtea.com. Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take out. Casual. Reservations not needed.
111 N Washington Hwy. Ashland. 798-3181. Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take out. Casual. Reservations not needed.
103 N Washington Hwy. Ashland. 798-4652. www.elaztecamr.net. Dine-In & Take out. Casual. Reservations not needed.
Homemades By Suzanne
Brick Oven Pizza & Restaurant
The Patron
139 Hill Carter Parkway. 798-0495. Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take out. Casual. Reservations not needed.
7610 Left Flank Road 804-559-6745 Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In or Take Out. Casual
Gino’s Pizza
seafood
Ashland Coffee & Tea
102 N. Railroad Avenue. 798-8331. www.homemadesbysuzanne.com. Breakfast & Lunch. Dine-In & Take out. Casual. Reservations not needed.
deli & light fare Padow’s Hams and Deli
8161 Atlee Road. Mechanicsville. 569-1610. Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take out. Casual. Reservations not needed.
Tropical Smoothie Cafe 7152 Mechanicsville Tnpk. 569-9707. www.tropicalsmoothie.com. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In, Take out & Delivery. Casual. Reservations not needed.
german
Parkway Restaurant 7211 Stonewall Pkwy. Mechanicsville. 730-2900. www.parkwayrest.com. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In. Casual. Reservations not needed.
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Flavor
Anthony’s Pizza Restaurant No 2
13234 Hanover Courthouse Rd. 537-5003. Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take out. Casual. Reservations not needed.
Gus’ Italian Café Hanover Square Shopping Center. Mechanicsville. 730-9620. www.facebook.com/gusitaliancafe Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In. Casual. Reservations not needed.
El Azteca
Awful Arthur’s 6078 Mechanicsville Tnpk. 559-4370. www.awfularthurs.com. Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In. Casual.
Islamorada Fish Company 11550 Lakeridge Parkway. 496-4800. www.fishcompany.com Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In. Casual.
Mimmo’s
steak & chop house
8319 Bell Creek Road. Shoppes at Bell Creek. 569-3990. www.mimmosrestaurant.com. Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take out. Casual. Reservations not needed.
809 England St. Ashland. 798-8205. Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In. Casual. Reservations not needed.
Pizzaro Flame Baked Pizza & Grill 9966 Brook Road. Glen Allen. 627-0003. www..pizzaropizza.com. Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In. & Take out. Casual.
Ponderosa
Call 804-639-9994 to be added to our dining guide in Hanover Lifestyle Magazine and on RichmondNavigator.com.
Order Up Good Food and Affordable Prices at
Turner’s Restaurant By Carter Enslow. Photo by Robert Thomas.
A New Twist on Authentic Mexican Cuisine at
PLAZA AZTECA By Peyton Dowdy. Photos by Tim Hill.
Hanover residents have a new destination for authentic Mexican cuisine. Plaza Azteca, located in front of Virginia Center Commons Mall, is a brand new restaurant that offers their take on classic Mexican dishes such as burritos and fajitas, while also catering to those with a more adventurous side. Enjoy fresh guacamole made table side, as well as special dishes like the Pescado Cancun (Mahi Mahi topped with a special crab meat sauce) from their extensive menu. Plaza Azteca also offers a children’s menu, which features both Mexican cuisine, as well as American staples like hamburgers and chicken fingers. The entire family will love the southwestern theme from the carved tile floors to the rustic wooden tables. Plaza Azteca is a slice of Mexico, here in Richmond. Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, Plaza Azteca’s speedy service and reasonable prices make it a prime destination for family dining or an in and out lunch during the work day. Lunch is served daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday and 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Consider this spot for a lively happy hour, as well, held every Monday through Thursday from 3 to 6 p.m. You can take in the vibrant décor with friends or co-workers while sipping a wide variety of drinks ranging from beer to margaritas. If you go on the right evening you just might even catch a live mariachi band performing. n
In today’s economic climate, people have to pick and choose where they’re going to go out to eat,” says Dan Turner, owner of Turner’s steak and seafood restaurant in Ashland (504 England Street, 752-2244). Turner, who has been in the restaurant business, first in Montpelier, and now in Ashland, since 1991 adds, “Price plays an important role in making such decisions.” That’s not just a philosophy at Turner’s eatery, but is a practice reflected over and over again on his extensive menu, which emphasizes steaks, seafood, chicken and burgers. As for the steak, Turner says he uses only top quality Angus beef, and yet, he says, “You’re not going to beat our prices on steak. Our guests are probably going to pay eight to ten dollars less for a steak dinner than they’ll pay for similar quality in a Richmond restaurant.” Virtually all entrees on Turner’s menu, including the 12-oz New York strip, the 16-oz rib eye, and such seafood dishes as jumbo fried shrimp and fried oysters, are in the $10 - $20 price range. Sandwich and burger platters run from about $6.00 to $9.00. The reasonable prices become even more of a value when you consider that just about everything served, including a variety of delicious desserts, is home made. And, with his practice of purchasing as much as possible from local farmers and growers, Dan Turner is helping to support businesses right within the county and the community. In addition to fresh, homemade meals, at reasonable prices, Turner’s restaurant offers residents of Ashland and Hanover County a family friendly atmosphere Catering for either pick-up or delivery is also available. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. (‘til 10 p.m. on the weekend). n
RichmondNavigator .com
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Order Up Good Food and Affordable Prices
504 England Street, Ashland • 804-752-2244 16
Flavor
IN SEARCH OF 1. Smoked Salmon Benedict A twist to a classic eggs benedict, this dish featured smoked salmon, spinach and capers and is served with home fries. O’Banks • 10392 Leadbetter Road 550-3888 • OBanksCafe.com Breakfast from 7am Monday-Friday.
Breakfast Photos by Robert Thomas.
1
Saturday 7am-2pm. Sunday 9am-2.pm.
2. Blueberry Bread Pudding This Southern style bread pudding is chock full of fresh blueberries and smothered in a rich chai sauce. Bell Cafe • 8319 Bell Creek Rd., Ste B 746-4647 • BellCafe.net Breakfast daily from 9am-noon. Saturday and Sunday Brunch from 9am-3pm.
3. Homemade Deep Dish Quiche This delectable quiche features backfin crab, spinach and mushrooms. Homemades by Suzanne • 102 N. Railroad Ave. 798-8331 • homemadesbysuzanne.com Open at 9am Monday to Saturday.
1 2
3
For more In Search Of:
RichmondNavigator .com
17
By Steve Cook
West Coast-style pizza has arrived in
Ashland. Gold Coast Pizza is offering patrons “a different kind of pizza, according to owner Ken Russell, who along with his wife, Karen, recently opened the restaurant in the Ashland Junction Shopping Center (155 Junction Drive, 752-7760). Russell says it’s the type of pizza that he was familiar with when he lived on the West Coast. In fact, he used to work in a pizza restaurant out west. “They serve this style of pizza in California, Oregon, Colorado, even Hawaii and Alaska,” he tells me. But he says you can’t find it here. At least you couldn’t until recently. Russell’s career in software development brought him and his family to Virginia several years ago. And although he “fell in love with Hanover County,” he was disappointed that no one was serving his favorite style of pizza, which he describes as having a crispy crust and being heavy on the toppings. The dough is aged five days prior to baking. He says when he described West Coast pizza to his friends here in Virginia, some said, “Oh, like Shakey’s used to serve.” So, if you were a fan of Shakey’s you just might want to check his pizza place out. Gold Coast Pizza is open from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. on Mondays through Thursdays and ‘til 10 p.m. on weekends. A pizza buffet, featuring several varieties of pizza and a salad bar, is offered daily from 11:30 until 1:30. n Email restaurant news, new openings, menus, chefs and more to alaina@richmondnavigator.com.
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Flavor
Calendar of Events m AY - J U LY
Richmond Rose Society Show. May 26-27. Lewis Ginter. Lewisginter.org Families After 5. Tuesday evenings June-August. WaterPlay til 8:30pm. Lewis Ginter. Lewisginter.org On Stage: Latin Ballet of Virginia. June 10. Maymont Park. Maymont.org
Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival June 9. Richmond Raceway Complex. Get ready to sip on 60 beers and 40 bourbons with your all-you-can-taste sampling glass! Plus dig in to smoky pulled pork from whole hogs,
Ashland Street Parties. May 19: Summer Shag Festival. June 16: Summer’s Here Party. July 21: Mid Summer Street Party. September 15: End of Summer Street Party. Ashlandstreetparties.com
ribs, brisket, chickens, sausages and any fixin’
Innsbrook Afterhours. Snagajob Pavilion.
you can imagine. For the brave of stomach,
May 23: The Band Perry.
compete in a BBQ bean eating contest. Learn
June 13: Country Throwdown Tour.
at seminars from master distillers, brewmasters
Innsbrookafterhours.com
and pit masters, or just enjoy live rock, blues and bluegrass music! Purchase tickets at beerandbourbon.com.
Unhappy Hour. May 24 and June 28. Poe Museum. Poemuseum.org Wendy Liebman. May 24-27. Funny Bone. Funnybonecentral.com Gary Owen. May 31-June 3. Funny Bone. Funnybonecentral.com Friday Cheers. Fridays in May and June.
©Victoria and Albert Museum, London
Brown’s Island. Venturerichmond.com Broad Appetit. June 3. Broad Appetit. June 3. 100-300 Blocks of Broad Street. broadappetit.com Yanni in Concert. June 6. Richmond CenterStage. Richmondcenterstage.com
Ashland Strawberry Faire June 2. Historical Ashland. The juicy strawberries are just the
Maharaja: The Splendors of India’s Great Kings
London Preview. June 6-9. Studio Theatre. Richmondballet.com
beginning to all the sweet finds at the
Now thru August 19.
annual Strawberry Faire. The community
Spring Awakening. June 15-July 22.
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
comes together for this free, non-profit,
Sara Belle and Neil November Theatre.
The VMFA will be featuring the East Coast’s only
event held in the streets surrounding
chance to explore the art material culture of
Randolph-Macon College. Listen to live
India’s maharajas, or great kings, from the early
music all day on two stages featuring
18th to mid-20th centuries. “Visitors will get
sounds from brass and jazz bands to
a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the private
pipes and drums to choirs, Miss and Mr.
lives of some of the world’s greatest and most
Strawberry pageants and more. Come out
legendary royals,” VMFA Director Alex Nyerges
Barksdalerichmond.org Richmond.com Uncorked. June 16. Virginia Historical Society. richmond.com Summer Solstice Wine Festival. June 23. Grayhaven Winery. Hovawinetrail.com
and support the local growers, farmers, and
said. “Three centuries of elaborate jewelry,
Henricus Dauber Dash. June 23. Henricus.
other Ashland and Hanover businesses.
ornate weaponry, fascinating artwork, royal
Sportsbackers.org
Plus, see antiques on site and an antique
costumes and photographs will be on display.”
road show at the Ashland Town Center.
Be immersed in India’s royal courts with items
Visit the website for more details at
such as Ranjit Singh’s gold-embossed throne
ashlandstrawberryfaire.com.
(pictured above).
Indina Menzel. June 29. Richmond Centerstage. Richmondcenterstage.com Fridays on the Patio. June 15 and July 13. James River Cellars. Jamesrivercellars.com
For more local events, visit www.richmondnavigator.com.
RichmondNavigator .com
19
BUSINESS WATCH
Care Advantage Offers Personalized Health Care at Home
Ashland Feed Store Serving Customers for Nearly a Century
By Erin Pittman.
By Missy Watts. Photo by Tim Hill.
D
ebbie Johnston, owner and president of Care
Advantage, Inc., had wanted to become a secretary,
like her mother. However, after considerable coax-
D
anny Adams grew up the son of a preacher. When
his father’s travels brought the family to Beaverdam, young Danny met Everett Williamson, a man in the
church who took an interest in Adams and started teaching
ing from her father, she decided to pursue a career in nursing.
him the art of agriculture.
being discharged from the hospital’s outpatient surgery center
Store on North Thompson Street near the railroad tracks, Ad-
own,” she says. It was that realization that ultimately led John-
agriculture stayed with him and after college he went to work
As a recovery room nurse, she says she witnessed patients
In 1978, when Williamson bought the old Ashland Feed
very quickly. “They were too sick to be sent home, on their
ams went to work for him. The passion he had developed for
ston into a new career in homecare and that gave birth to her
for Southern States.
a leader in the healthcare industry in providing personal and
son’s death. “The old, wooden structure has housed a feed
With fifteen offices throughout the state, Care Advantage
country store. There’s no air conditioning or heat and the floor
home, hospital, nursing and retirement homes, or any other
The building, which survived a fire in the late 1980’s, draws
business, in 1988. Since then, Care Advantage, Inc., has become
Adams bought the store in 2005 a few years after William-
companion homecare.
and seed store since 1918,” said Adams. “It’s really like an old
provides both care and skilled nursing to individuals in their
tilts a little.”
facility in which one may reside. Services offered include as-
customers from around the area in search of a wide-variety of
rands, and medication reminders. Full-time live-in care is also
supplies, to feed for horses and Alpaca. “Equine supplies are
“We tailor our services to suit each individual’s needs and
horses in the area, so we offer a complete line of supplies for
sistance with bathing, dressing, meal preparation, running er-
animal feed ranging from chicken and pig, to sheep and goat
offered.
the biggest selling products at the store. A lot of people own
to give their families peace of mind,”
the horse lover,” added Adams.
vides ‘Compassionate People Commit-
supplies. Lawn and gardening supplies and vegetable plants
Johnston says. “Care Advantage proted to Quality Care.’” n
Care Advantage www.careadvantageinc.com
The store also offers a variety of feed plots and wild bird
including tomato, corn and squash are available for purchase, and are ready for planting. n Ashland Feed Store I 120 Thompson Street www.ashlandfeedstore.com I 798-8431
– S PONSORED MESSAGES – 20
May/June 2012
AROUND THE HOUSE
DESIGNS FOR LIVING…
Creating
Kid-Friendly Spaces
By Vicki O’Neal, ASID, CID, VSLD
The term “interior design” conjures images of high style and beautiful aesthetics. If there are children in your home, you may think living with kids and having a stylish home is a contradiction in terms. That doesn’t have to be so, but it does mean integrating kid-friendly design solutions.
PHASES and STAGES Living with children, especially when they first arrive, is a dramatic shift in lifestyle and necessitates changes in design priorities. The infant and toddler stages require obviously design-challenging gear and paraphernalia. These stages also call for close attention to detail. From infancy to tweens, and ultimately to young adulthood, the needs of children are ever-changing. The spaces in
FURNITURE Choosing furniture items that kids can grow up with helps extend the lifes-
which they live and thrive are ideally outfitted to suit each
pan of your purchases. If space allows, consider a full or queen bed in lieu of
particular stage in their physical, emotional, and intellectual
the typical twin kid’s bed. If space is at a premium, bunk configurations include
growth. Incorporating thoughtful, flexible and adjustable
full over full, or twin over full. Don’t forget homework area and technology, and
features and furnishings can create spaces that maximize
whether a bedroom computer is appropriate and at what age.
longevity and minimize the need to purchase age-specific
For other spaces in the home, always think safety when it comes to furniture
items.
selection. Avoid furnishings with potentially hazardous sharp corners or protrud-
DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
ing hardware. Always secure tall furniture to the wall to prevent tipping over and
Flexibility and durability are the key considerations when designing spaces with kids in mind. Creating appropriate and item-specific storage is critical to taming poten-
possible serious injuries.
STORAGE Flexible and adjustable storage for clothing is a must during the ages that
tial chaos from the accumulation of toys and other objects
small children begin to dress themselves. Closet systems can be two or three
over time.
levels for hanging, and built-ins or bins can help tame storage of small objects.
Kids’ rooms can be especially enjoyable to create. Let-
Hooks are also great for little hands to reach. Hanging storage units for the closet
ting kids have a say gives them a feeling of ownership and
can offer some highly visible organization. I never thought toy boxes were the
pride in what is created, and an investment in how they care
best storage option. Drawers or open-front stacking crates seem much more use-
for it. For design inspiration, start with their favorite activi-
ful. n
ties and hobbies. Let your imagination roam with theirs to add a bit of whimsy, and design in some fun. The interests and likes of children may shift dramatically as they grow, so choose and think of accessories and visuals as temporary and easily changeable. www.RichmondNavigator.com
Enjoying this article? Find more kid-friendly home solutions from Vicki O’Neal on topics like finishes, walls, floors and fabrics online at www.richmondnavigator.com! 21
22
May/June 2012
Hanover Schools HELPING THE COMMUNITY Cool Spring Elementary Teams Up With the Food Bank to Feed Children By Tammie Wersinger.
Saving the Earth at Battlefield Park Elementary School
School may be a place where children go to learn, but for an
Before the movement to go “green”
increasing number of students, the morning bell has become their
swept the nation, Battlefield Park Elemen-
guarantee that they will get the nutritious meals they need to
tary School’s staff and students were busy
learn and grow. When Cool Spring Elementary students and staff
building earth-friendly habits. Their efforts
learned about a program that provides balanced meals to chil-
began with Bear Island Paper Company
dren when schools are closed, they decided to find ways to help.
picking up recyclables from the school, even
The Mechanicsville school hosted a spaghetti dinner to kick
compensating the school for their hard
off its two-year commitment to the Central Virginia Food Bank’s BackPack Program, which
work. When Bear Island began charging for
provides children at risk of weekend hunger with a bag of food that is child-friendly, nutritious,
pick-up, the school faced a tough situation
nonperishable and easy to prepare. On Fridays, each student receives food to make six bal-
with a tight budget.
anced meals, including whole grain cereals, protein-rich entrées, canned fruits and vegetables, milk and snacks to get them through the weekend. “Around the region, you’ll find many teachers who can tell you about students who came to school hungry on Monday,” Conchetta Yonaitis, the children’s program manager, said. “They are eager to get back to school, after going through Friday evening, all day Saturday and all day Sunday without a square meal.’’ During the 2010-11 school year, the BackPack program provided more than 385,000 meals to more than 2,000 children. This school year, the program will serve 51 locations in the Greater Richmond area.
SDI Disposal came to the rescue of the
“It is an important goal of the Central Vir-
school (and the planet!) by supplying each
ginia Food Bank to ensure that all children in
classroom with recycling sorting bins en-
our community have the healthy food they
abling more types of materials to be re-
need to grow strong in body and mind,’’ Yonaitis said.“School breakfast and lunch and our own
cycled than ever before. In addition, a new
Kids Cafe program only meet the needs of children five days a week, but the BackPack program
partnership with TerrCycle.net enabled the
provides food for the weekend to help meet children’s nutritional needs when these other
school to turn trash into cash by collecting
programs are not available.”
otherwise tossed-aside garbage such as
To help the Central Virginia Food Bank reach its goal of keeping area children fed, Cool
chip bags, old pens, and candy wrappers.
Spring Elementary staff, teachers, students and parents were able to raise $3,700 during the re-
Students with duties of collecting bins
cent dinner. Brunetti’s Restaurant in Mechanicsville donated the food and came to the school’s
and recyclables share an early awareness of
cafeteria kitchen to ensure that it was freshly cooked, and the Atlee High School Jazz Band
helping the earth. Their work has not been
provided entertainment. Some Cool Spring students created table decorations for the dinner,
in vain, as they have sent in over 200,000
while others made art magnets to sell that evening to help raise funds. Teachers also did their
pieces of trash that would have ended up
part by donating and selling ceramic cupcake decorations and traveling to the Food Bank to
in a landfill and earned the school over two
help assemble some of the FeedMore weekend food bags.
thousand dollars in the past two years. The
“The event was very successful, but it involved more than just our children,’’ said Cool
much-needed funds have been able to pro-
Spring Elementary Principal Paula Brown.“This was a true community event, where we all came
vide new technological tools the school may
together to make a bigger impact.”
not have been able to afford otherwise.
Brown added that the dinner was just the beginning of what she hopes will be an ongoing
If you’d like to help out the environment
relationship between her school and Central Virginia Food Bank because helping in the com-
and aid in the school’s fund-raising, visit bat-
munity has been beneficial to her students, as well as the non-profit group.
tlefieldpark.com/Committees/TrashTalking.
“It teaches our children that we all can impact our community in positive ways,” Brown said. “By bonding together, we can really make a difference.” n www.RichmondNavigator.com
shtml for info on what and how to get rid of your trash! n 23
– SPONSORED M E S S AG E –
Classes, Camps, and Parties for the 6 and Under Crowd!
Eight years ago, Richmond parents Mi-
chael and Babz Barnett were seeking enrich-
ment classes for their children, Zachary and
Emma. The couple was seeking a place that was
clean and bright with a
variety of imaginative
classes led by enthusiastic instructors. When
they found that what they wanted didn’t exist,
they decided to create it!
Thanks to the support of the community,
Romp n’ Roll now has three centers in the
Richmond area: West End, Midlothian, and Mechanicsville.
“We offer a wide variety of age-specific
classes, such as gym/play, music, art, cook-
ing, science, sports and more for children from
as young as 3 months up to 5 years”, says cofounder, Babz Barnett. Generally, classes are 45 to 60 minutes long, meet once per week,
and are “parent-inclusive” for the younger
children while classes for older children are “parent-optional.” Romp n’ Roll offers free trial classes which you can schedule by calling 804-322-1789.
One of Romp n’ Roll’s most popular pro-
grams is their Summer Camp (“like a big kids
camp… on training wheels!”). Camp is for children from 2–5 years and meets Tuesday and Thursday from either 9 am–noon or 2 pm –5 pm throughout the summer. Each week has
a different theme and campers participate in
gym, art, and music activities in each session.
Children can enroll for one week, the whole summer, or anything in between.
For more information, call 804-322-1789
or visit www.rompnroll.com. 24
May/June 2012
Time to Party!
By Kellie Murphie
Planning a kid’s party? Don’t panic! These great locations offer fun, entertainment, and convenience!
Nothing says America’s pastime like a birthday party at the home of The Flying Squirrels. The fun will begin with one hour in the ORC Birthday Zone (located on the right field line) just prior to the game. Also included is a visit from Nutzy, Diamond Club tickets to the game, one ticket to the Kids Zone for each guest, cheese pizza or hot dog meal, drinks, and dessert. The guest of honor will receive a Flying Squirrels baseball and throw out the first pitch at the game! For more information, contact Chris Joyner at 359-3866 or chris.joyner@squirrelsbaseball.com. Located in Lakeside Towne Center, Feathernesters is the place to host tea parties for young ladies aged 5-10. This unique shop offers two party options, the “Darling Diva” and “Fairy Tale” tea parties, each featuring age-appropriate crafts and costumes. The centerpiece is the tea party where guests are served savory finger sandwiches, sweet breads and desserts, fruit, and oven-fresh scones. All parties are 2 hours and conclude with a whimsical Cupcake Tree. Additional options include a special event cake, custom invitations, chocolate fountain, and table favors. Feathernesters also hosts bridal and baby showers. For details, visit www.feathernesters.com or call 2627305. G-Force Karts is the city’s premier location for adventure with karting, laser tag, and inflatables. Karting parties, designed for 6-10 children ages 8-15, include party coordinators, a safety briefing, two 8-minute races per child, a party room, and invitations. A Laser tag party includes a 20-minute adventure and a reserved table. Upgrades for pizza and additional races/adventures are available. G-Force also offers the Adventure Zone Weekend Party, which includes 90 minutes in the inflatable area for up to 25 guests, 45 minutes in a party room, invitations, and balloons. Combination parties are also available. For details, visit www.gforcekarts.com or call 804-228-0188. Animal lovers will want to visit Broken Road Farm for a truly unique party experience. Select from a farm party or tour, with or without pony rides. Parties of all sizes and ages are welcome. Animals on-site include the Texas Longhorn, zorse, zdonk, mules, alpaca, and llama as well as multiple breeds of goats, sheep, pigs, chickens, and rabbits. Bring your own food and beverages and feel free to use the picnic tables and tents to continue your party. Broken Road Farm also offers a traveling petting zoo that will come to you. For details, visit www.freewebs.com/minihoss/ or call 804-306-8650. Romp n’ Roll of Mechanicsville offers parties geared toward children aged 1-6. On-site equipment includes a moon bounce, rock wall, trapeze, monkey bars, bubble machine, disco ball, and other gym equipment. The Weekend Super Bash includes private use of the facility for 90 minutes (up to 20 guests), two instructors to lead age-appropriate games, songs, and activities; utensils, invitations, balloons, and cleanup. Parents provide all refreshments, party favors, and themed party goods. Locally owned, Romp n’ Roll also offers “Weekday Private” and “Share Our Space” party options. For additional details, go to www.rompnrollmechanicsville.com or call 804-730-2060. Not finding what you’re looking for? More Hanover options include Pump It Up, Richmond Olympiad Gymnastics, Ashland Berry Farm, Kids Zoom, King’s Dominion (seasonal), and your local YMCA. n www.RichmondNavigator.com
25
26
May/June 2012
Lube Tech
Tom Moyers Unexpected Career Path Brings Hanover Personalized Auto Service By Steve Cook. Photos by Barry Cook.
W
hen Richmonder, Tom Moyer graduated from VCU, back in 1986, he was ready to hang up his coveralls
and get out of the lube and oil change business. He’d
been working for a local company, Lube Tech, since 1983, but, says Moyer, “With my business degree, I was looking forward to put-
ting on the suit and tie and getting a job with Philip Morris or another big corporation.
However, his boss asked him to stay on for one more year…
just a year. Moyer agreed. He stayed the year, and then another, and another. In 1999, he was still with Lube Tech, in a managerial position. That’s when he decided to buy the business.
It was about that time, after determining he only wanted to operate out of one
location, that Moyer, by then a resident of Mechanicsville, built his service center at 9080 Atlee Station Road, in Hanover.
His business is an excellent example of all the right reasons we are constantly en-
couraged to buy locally. “Despite what many think,” Moyer says, “Lube Tech is not a franchise. It’s totally locally owned.” That means the money spent by thousands of
With fuel prices inching towards the $4.00 mark, we asked Tom Moyer for hints in obtaining
maximum miles-per-gallon for your vehicle. • Keep your tires properly inflated. Tom says this can increase your mileage by 5–8%. • Change your air filter regularly – at least every 10,000 to 15,000 miles. • Keep your fluids full. If any fluids are low, it can add stress to your car’s engine.
motorists over the years has stayed right within the region.
the service that suits their vehicles the best.”
cal residents. “Most of my employees are vo-tech graduates from Atlee and Hanover
envisioned when he graduated from VCU?
The operation has also allowed Moyer the opportunity to offer employment to lo-
High Schools,” he says, adding that all of his employees have been with him for at least five years. “Chris Ardy, my general manager has been with me since he was 15 years old.”
By limiting his business to one location, Moyer says it has allowed him to get to
know his customers personally. “I understand their driving habits and can determine
www.RichmondNavigator.com
Does he regret giving up the career he had
“Not at all,” Moyer says emphatically. “I couldn’t put on a suit and tie and go to work.
I’ve never gotten tired of this. I enjoy coming to work.” n
Lube Tech • 569-1888 • lubetechoil.com
27
A Nu Bath for You!
I
s your bathtub more peeling than appealing? Whether it’s
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As certified Bathwraps installers, the experts at NuBath by Mr.
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ing tub and walls, there’s no messy tear-out. They also specialize in custom remodeling, so when you’re ready to convert your old tub into a spacious new shower area with easier access, the professionals at NuBath can easily handle it for you. NuBath by Mr. Fix-
It also specializes in the installation of new toilets, vanities, floors, and every other aspect in the bathroom.
Enjoy your new tub for years to come. Mr. Fix-It’s exclusive
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Whether you’re looking for a new tub or an entirely new bath-
room, Mr. Fix-It’s trained and certified staff can work with you to
custom design and install the bathroom of your dreams. Bathroom renovations have been shown to result in a 150% return on your investment. So, in effect, your new bathroom doesn’t cost, it pays.
Mr. Fix-It’s systems are fully guaranteed and will not rust,
crack, or fade. Mold and mildew can be a thing of the past with a
newly remodeled bathroom by MR. FIX-IT. You and your family will be safer and cleaner. And you will be happier…every time
you walk through the bathroom door. NuBath by Mr. Fix-It has a showroom to help you design your next bathroom renovation. Mr. Fix It I 804-419-4486 I mrfixitva.com – S P O N S O R E D M E S S AG E –
28
May/June 2012
SENIOR LIVING TIPS FOR
Aging Gracefully
Pa r t 3 : HOW WE PL AY By Steve Cook. Photos by Robert Thomas. It’s about 7 o’clock on a recent Friday night in Downtown Richmond. I’m on my way to
the Boomer Ball at the newly renovated John Marshall Condos. I’ve been told by Lori Phil-
lippo, CEO at Circle Center Adult Day Services, the sponsor of the Ball that the vast majority of the guests will be Baby Boomers…or beyond.
Obviously, those attending this event will be persons who are taking the time to enjoy
their senior years. That’s a good thing. I want to find out just how those in that demographic
spend their leisure time…how they play. True, I’m part of that group myself, but have never been a great player.
She’s a professional artist.”
Ball has a 70s Let’s Disco theme and Richard is dressed as if he just stepped out of that decade.
spend some time assisting her father.
Wearing an exuberant, welcoming smile, he invites me in.
ly good health. At (age) 99, he still
The first person I meet is Richard Bighinatti. He’s hard to miss on this night. The Boomer
Richard is the volunteer doorkeeper and as I approach the lobby entrance, he opens the door.
When I ask him what he does “for play,” he first tells me that he and his wife, Betsy, are
active in their church and its theatrical company. “I’m the stage manager for the St. John’s Players,” he tells me. “Betsy is the production manager.”
Working with a church group seems tame enough, something that a newly retired person might do to while away his idle hours. However, Richard and Betsy, I soon learn, have few, if any, idle hours.
Bill also tells me that he and Jane
“Although,” Bill adds, “he’s in fairdrives his own car.”
He concludes, “Before I retired,
time managed me. Now, I manage
my time, and don’t want to have one wasted minute.”
From both my conversations
My question about how he spends his leisure time
with the two couples, as well as my
beginning.”We travel a lot,” he continues. “We take a cruise
would appear that play is not just for
has opened a floodgate. The church work is just the once a year.”
But wait, there’s more. “And, there’s always something
to do in Richmond. We don’t sit around waiting for something to do,” he says. “We do.”
He tells me that he and Betsy attend the theater as well
as concerts held locally. They also enjoy discovering the city’s many fine restaurants.
“I’ve always thought Richmond had lots of opportu-
nities,” says Richard. “Shame on you if you say you don’t have anything to do.”
In the beautiful, new John Marshall ballroom, I meet Bill and Jane Liepis. Bill says he fits
observations at the Boomer Ball, it the young anymore. Many of those who are aging gracefully are tak-
ing advantage of their post-retire-
ment years to share in activities for which there had been no time previ-
ously. As Betsy Bighinatti told me,
“We want to enjoy life now, while
we can…while we still have good health.” n
into the “slightly beyond Boomer” demographic and tells me that he spends much of his leisure time doing volunteer work for the Circle Center, as well as the Rotary, the United Way and the YMCA.
But like Richard with his church work, that’s just the beginning. “Jane and
ABOUT CIRCLE CENTER Circle Center Adult Day Services has been a
I exercise a lot,” he says. “We go to the JCC (Jewish Community Center) five
respected Richmond eldercare since 1976. Lory Phil-
Bill talks about the advantages of life after retirement. “We set our own
lunch, two snacks, all cognitive and physical activities,
to six times a week.”
day. We enjoy cultural events, the theater. In fact, we were at the opera last night.”
Other leisure activities include Jane’s gardening. “And she gives me
my list of things to do,” he adds. “Jane has also gone back to her vocation. www.RichmondNavigator.com
lippo, says, “Our services include includes breakfast, medication management and an individualized care plan which is reviewed weekly by our entire program staff. For more information, visit www.circlecenterads.org or phone 804 355-5717. 29
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May/June 2012