happy neW year! from all the staff and members at ZG I lost 80 lbs, I move better; have so much more energy!
I lost 80 lbs, I’m off all meds and I feel great!
Lost 25 lbs; turned my Type II From couch potato to marathon runner! Lost 100 lbs! diabetes around for good!
Lost 120 lbs and keeping it off!
Lost 78 lbs in 4 mos; still losing. Improved sleep apnea & more energy.
From wheelchair to a cane, ZG saved my life! Lost 66 lbs!
Lost 30 lbs. No more A-fib. Lost 4 inches in waist.
Lost 50 lbs and 4 dress sizes Lost 140 lbs, 20”off my waist I’ve lost 58 lbs; lowered BP, Down 30 lbs & eliminated or reduced three meds. in Sundays Only Program! and got off all my meds! and ran a 5K race!!
I lost 55 lbs. Simply put, ZG WORKS.
I lost 55 lbs & many inches. Life is much more enjoyable!
Lost over 15 lbs thanks to atmosphere of hope, knowledge and support at ZG.
I lost 76 lbs and got off all meds!
I’ve already lost 30 lbs and gotten off meds!
I lost 25 lbs in 4 weeks & can Lost 70 lbs. Having so much feel my health turning around! fun I don’t know I’m exercising!
This program works; I have lost 73 lbs!
I lost 55 lbs and sleep much better!
I lost 55 lbs and 37 inches. Thanks, ZG!
I lost 63 lbs and got off my diabetes meds!
I lost 57 lbs and 10” off my waist.
I’ve lost 60 lbs and never felt h ealthier!
Lost 11 lb; no more shoulder, Lost 100+ lbs, have more Lost 70 lbs, 6”off my waist; knee or leg pain. Thanks ZG! energy; more optimistic attitude! normalized my blood sugar.
I lost over 200 lbs and got I’ve lost 120 lbs and started off all my meds! an Amputee Support Group!
Lost 45 lbs; have improved my BP and cholesterol.
Lowered my cholesterol by 50 pts and lost 27 lbs!
Lost almost 50 lbs. ZG has made me a health athlete!
Lost 22 lbs and off Lipitor after 20 years.
make this neW year a special one. the next ZG northside class starts JanUary 9! If you can’t start the 9th, no worries! we can catch you up and add time on at the end....you won’t miss a thing! we’re flexible! It’s yoUr life. I lost 45 lbs and lowered my blood pressure meds!
Lost 90 lbs; best decision I ever made!
I lost 61 lbs in 3 months!
It works in the “real” world. Lost 47 lbs.
Lost 82 lbs. ZG has changed my life!
Lost 1/3 body weight in only 9 mos! Reached my goals!
I’ve lost over 120 lbs since Nov ‘09!
Woe is me, before the ZG Key. I lost 26 lbs and reduced meds!
In 15 wks, lost 66 lbs, normalized BP and A1c
Lost 63 lbs and still losing!
I lost 30 now lbs. Lost 50over lbs and haveina 2008. waistline!
Lost 40 lbs, improved blood work numbers and BMI.
I’ve lost 50 lbs and feel healthier than ever!
You really gotta keep at it! 53 pounds lighter!
Lost 115 lbs, normalized BP, chol, blood sugar
I lost 44 lbs and 6 inches in my waist!
Lost over 40 lbs doing the Sundays Only Program!
In just 8 mos, I lost 102 lbs, reduced meds; normalized BP.
804.358.1000 come lose WeiGht/Gain strenGth at ZG!
Why are these ZG members smiling? Because all 52 and 1000s more of your Richmond neighbors, coworkers and friends are losing weight, cutting meds, increasing metabolism, improving sleep, getting healthier and just feeling better. The ZG Key© 10 weeK proGram, developed by a physician and staff of certified trainers and professionals,
combines medical & nutrition lectures by Dr. Madge Zacharias, structured, supervised cardio interval and strength training workouts, one-on-one counseling, with lots of motivation & support, all under one roof, for one price. Begins, and ends, with a health assessment and labwork. Call 804-358-1000 for a (free/no obligation) health assessment and tour. ZG Programs qualify for most Flexible Spending accounts; no interest payment plans available.
For info: MJGaney@ZGHealth.com 1311 Palmyra Ave. Richmond, VA
zghealth.com Work/travel all the time? ask about ZG’s sundays-only classes Where you can Get healthy on your schedule.
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PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER
William J. Davis, Jr.
Contents January/February 2013
VICE-PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER
Cheryl T. Davis MANAGING EDITOR
Alaina Rauth CREATIVE DIRECTORS
Lorraine Meade Trey Tyler ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS
Jared Davis Ann Small
Features 6 7 8
Health & Fitness Q&A with Madge Zacharias, MD Events to Train For in 2013 New You for the New Year
CONTRIBUTORS
Business Watch
Vicki O’Neal, ASID, CID, VSLD Steve Cook Meagan Moore Kellie Murphy Jennifer Saunders
10 17 18
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Family
Tim Hill Robert Thomas Liz Reese
Hanover Lifestyle magazine is published bi-monthly by Advertising Concepts, Inc. 6301 Harbourside Drive, Suite 100 Midlothian, VA 23112 (804) 639-9994 • (804) 739-9549 Fax RichmondNavigator.com facebook.com/RichmondNavigator
11
A Getaway to Waves Hair Studio More Treasures Than Ever at More Than Moving Choosing To Succeed Gil Miles’ new venture, Wine For Cures
11 Family-Friendly Museums
Flavor
15
13 Restaurant Highlights 14 Scoop du Jour Brunetti’s Express 16 Save with Richmond Navideals 19 Raising the Bar 23 A Sweet Love Story with Sweetly Smitten
What’s Happening 15 Calendar of Events
Comments and suggestions are welcome by emailing info@RichmondNavigator.com. All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.
Home 25 Ah, A Home Spa! 28 DIY Diversion: Chalkboard Paint
25
Senior Living A PUBLICATION OF
All articles and contents of this magazine are not necessarily the opinions or thoughts of Chesterfield Living magazine, Advertising Concepts, Inc. or the publisher.
30 Tips for Aging Gracefully: How We Spend
About our cover: Hanover businessman Gil Miles chooses to succeed with his new venture Wine For Cures. Article begins on page 18. Photo by Robert Thomas. January / February 2013
|
RichmondNavigator.com
5
A fitness and nutrition Q&A with
MADGE zacharias, MD cofounder of zacharias ganey health institute by Jennifer Norvell Saunders
Fitness & Nutrition
F
eeling—and looking!—your best. It’s something most of us want, but getting there can be confusing. Many of us just don’t know how to go about improving our health. Well, the experts do! That’s why we asked one of them, Dr. Madge Zacharias, to answer some of the most frequently asked health questions.
Dr. Zacharias, what is one of the most important things people can do to improve their health?
And we’ve got to get rid of sugary drinks. The average American’s high-carb diet does not go well with a sedentary lifestyle.
We’re all so busy these days. How can we get fit in the shortest amount of time? We all make time for what’s important to us. We just need to make being active a priority in our lives. I sometimes ask members if they’ve ever left their child at the bus stop because they just didn’t have time to pick them up! You don’t have to spend two hours a day in the gym. You can be active anywhere. If time’s an issue, focus on doing just enough to be fit. Our obesity rate was less than 15% in 1991. Today it’s more than 30%. We just have to move more.
Move. Humans are meant to move. Our fall-off in health is because our lives have
Should I be on a diet?
How can I stay focused on my health?
changed, we are eating abnormally, and we
The simple answer is “No.” But you
sit all day. Technology has really removed
should learn how to eat. We don’t hand our
Most people only realize they need to do
movement from our lives, and it can be chal-
members a diet. We teach them what to do to
something when their health impedes their
lenging to be active. We live in our cars and in
get their bodies working in a normal way. We
quality of life. At Zacharias Ganey Health Insti-
front of our computers.
show them how exercise and nutrition affects
tute we focus on lifestyle to develop optimal
metabolism and blood sugar, and how that
health and quality of life. Many people come
affects weight control.
because they don’t know what to do. They
I suggest that people walk every day. Go for a ten-minute walk in the morning and twen-
either aren’t progressing or they’re doing the
ty minutes at lunch. Take a quick walk when you get a break. Get a pedometer to track the number of steps you take. You might be surprised
I’m getting a little older. Am I destined to gain weight now?
wrong thing. It’s important to get help learning what
by how little you actually move. For example,
Our lifestyle can make the natural slow-
you need to do for the rest of your life. When
logging 2,000 steps a day is only about twenty
ing of our metabolism as we age happen
you have a good plan and you’re progressing
minutes of movement. Normal recommenda-
faster than it used to. As we get older, we
it can be exciting and motivating. It can help
tions for health are 10,000 steps a day.
tend to lose lean muscle tissue, mainly due to
you to stay in the game long enough for it to
inactivity and poor nutrition. If we build lean
become a part of your life. One of the biggest
muscle tissue, it will help us to burn calories
challenges we face is taking care of ourselves—
more efficiently, and that can help to control
keeping cravings down, eating normally, and
weight gain.
moving our muscles every day. But it’s so impor-
Okay, so what’s the worst thing? I think the number one thing to watch is added sugars in our diets. Not just refined sugar, but the total amount of carbs as well.
6
RichmondNavigator.com | January / February 2013
tant—for us and for the people who love us. n
Events to Train For in 2013 By Megan Moore
W
hile the South may be best known for
health, think about exercising your clicking finger
fried food and sweet tea, our Com-
to Google some pointers before you lace up those
monwealth’s capital city is also an
running shoes. Experts often post their training
ideal place to burn off all those calories and get
suggestions and plans online for novice and expe-
fit and happy with a few thousand of your closest
rienced athletes alike.
friends. Whether you’re a rabid runner or a wild
Stay rested and hydrated. Take care of your-
walker, prefer to sprint or simply mosey to the fin-
self as you train—if you don’t give yourself that
ish, there are organized events throughout the
initial advantage, it’ll be an uphill battle to reach
greater Richmond area that are sure to whet your
your goals.
workout whistle while benefiting great causes.
Use the buddy system. Training with a friend
Looking to get involved? Keep these tips in mind
can make your workouts seem less like drudgery
as you train for the event you choose:
and more like fun. This will make you more likely
Find a plan. Consult with a trainer or doctor
to stick with your plan and meet your goals. Don’t
before committing to run, and work together to
have an athletic buddy? Join a training group, stat!
come up with a plan. If you know you’re in good
Have fun!
Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10K
Henricus Dauber Dash
April 13, 2013 – One of Richmond’s most notable races, this 10k draws thousands of competitors to pound some of our fair city’s most scenic pavement to a soundtrack of cheers and live music.
June 29, 2013 – This 5-mile run starts and finishes on a historic settlement. As you wind through a scenic conservation area, challenge yourself to a bunch of intense obstacles to earn the reward of a rockin’ post-race festival. Plus, the kids can take part in a muddy one-miler.
www.sportsbackers.org/events/monument-avenue-10k
Virginia 529 Kids Run April 13, 2013 – 5- to12-year-olds may not be ready for a 10k yet, but this event is the perfect cure for little feet itching to get on the blocks. www.sportsbackers.org/events/virginia-529-kids-run
Columbia Muddy Buddy Ride and Run April 20, 2013 – Pairs encourage each other through a 3- to 4.5-mile run with military-style obstacles, or alternate running and biking through a 5- to7-mile course, leapfrogging all the way to the famous mud pit at the finish. www.muddybuddy.competitor.com
5k Foam Fest May 11, 2013 – The excitement of a mud run is combined with lots of foam, huge inflated obstacles, army crawls, cargo-net climbs, a moon walk, slip’n slides, and water obstacles in this race that is new to Richmond. www.5kfoamfest.com
Dominion Riverrock
www.sportsbackers.org/events/henricus-dauber-dash
Anthem Moonlight Ride August 17, 2013 – Join 3,000 cyclists decked out in crazy lights and costumes for this fun 8- or 17mile ride through Richmond’s Fan district. End the night by celebrating together with pizza, ice cream, and a Blue Moon. www.sportsbackers.org/events/moonlight-ride
Maymont X-Country Festival September 27-28, 2013 – Take in Maymont’s beautiful scenery in a wide array of running events open to everyone from students to advanced athletes. www.sportsbackers.org/events/maymont-x-country-festival
The Color Run 5K – September 14,
Anthem Richmond Marathon/American Family Fitness Half Marathon/HCA VA 8k
2013 – Billed as “the happiest 5K on the planet,” no one leaves this event with
November 16, 2013 – Pick your pavement pounding poison from this upbeat racing medley and dash through downtown Richmond’s scenic streets. n
anything less than a grin, as they’re cheered on by fellow runners and coated with powdered paint at each kilometer. www.thecolorrun.com/richmond
www.richmondmarathon.com
May 17-19, 2013 – 5ks, 10ks, trail runs, climbing – you can’t swing a running shoe without hitting a challenging fitness event during this 3-day exSee more events at travaganza of sweat and achievement. www.dominionriverrock.com
RichmondNavigator.com January / February 2013
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RichmondNavigator.com
7
W
elcome to the Neighborhood!
for the 5 Tips for Improving Your Health and Lifestyle
ooking to help Mom and Dad L move closer to you? Look no further
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than Morningside in the West End for fine assisted living, close to it all. Our picturesque neighborhood setting is conveniently located near great shopping, doctors, and attractions. We invite you and your family to visit us today to experience West End’s choice for Five Star living.
3000 Skipwith Road Richmond, VA 23294
804-270-3990
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By Emily Jones
t’s that time of the year when many reflect back on their lives and consider ways to improve their health and make positive changes to their beauty routines. There are several adjustments people can implement in order to take control of their well-being—from simple ideas like taking a walk, to more complex health overhauls, such as joining a fitness club. Here are five tips for improving your mental and physical health, as well as your overall appearance.
1
If you have trouble getting motivated on your own, try group exercise. ACAC’s FitCamp offers personal training for groups of seven to fourteen. “It’s less than 20 percent of the cost of a normal one-on-one session with a trainer,’’ says Wendy Greene of ACAC Fitness & Wellness Centers. You get the great benefits of a personal-trainer-led workout and the camaraderie and motivation of working out with a group. Instead of boring machines, participants interact with fun equipment like tires, sleds and battle ropes .
2
Get the benefits of acupuncture without the needles! The ancient wisdom of acupuncture is combined with Young Living™ Essential Oils and topical skin care in a no-fear, no-needle process that will bring back your youthful glow, increase your energy, reduce stress, and improve sleep. Diane Lowry (healthfocusacupuncture.com) is excited to be one of the first in the area to offer the Second Chance Facial Rejuvenation® service. She says, “The results are much more noticeable than when I use acupuncture alone.”
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Soothe your dry scalp and brittle hair with a revitalizing scalp and hair treatColors Notes: ment. “Our Davines Natural Tech line offers a soothing and calming nourishing scalp C M Y K and hair treatment which is ideal for sensitive, dehydrated scalps,” says Anna Parlanti of Ciao NA NA NA NA
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Bella Salon. “It also nourishes and restructures the hair shaft leaving it soft, shiny, and full-bodied.” Some salons such as Ciao Bella come with added perks such as a complimentary scalp and hand massage and shampoo and blow dry!
4
Switch to mineral makeup cosmetics for your skin’s health. Easy to apply and long-lasting, minerals can help to simplify your routine by combining a foundation, concealer, powder, and sunscreen all in one. “It’s important to choose a mineral line with no dyes, chemical preservatives, artificial fillers, or synthetic fragrances,” says Sheri Polignone, co-owner of Rituals Salon and Spa. “Mineral cosmetics are especially great for sensitive skin and can even be applied shortly after certain cosmetic surgery procedures to help promote healthy healing.”
5
If you’re a spa veteran, try a new technique like “cupping” to find relief from pains such as muscle spasms, sciatica, arthritis, and rheumatic problems. By creating suction and negative pressure, cupping drains excess fluids and toxins, loosens adhesions, lifts connective tissue, brings blood flow to stagnant skin and muscles, and stimulates the peripheral nervous system. n
1
Instead of boring machines, interact with fun equipment tires and sleds.
read more at richmondnavigator.com
You’ll be moonstruck.
I
t’s the way many have felt when they discovered Covenant
Woods. A lifestyle where you have the freedom to do more of what you already enjoy and explore more things—traveling, trying your hand at new hobbies and activities, making new friends. The focus of this fully accredited Life Care community is to erase many of the responsibilities and concerns that stand
804.569.8000 www.covenantwoods.com
in your way. Visit now and take a closer look. A cottage or apartment on our 75-acre campus may come into view. We are pledged to the letter and spirit of federal and state policies for the achievement of equal housing opportunity. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, or national origin. The continuing care retirement facilities and services offered herein are offered solely by Covenant Woods, a Virginia Corporation, which is not affiliated with any outside continuing care retirement facility or provider.
January / February 2013
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RichmondNavigator.com
9
A G etaway to
Waves Hair Studio by Steve Cook • Photo by Robert Thomas
W
ith the dead of winter just ahead of us, wouldn’t a tropical escape sound inviting about now? Impossible? Perhaps, but you can enjoy a refreshing, relaxing alternative when
you visit Waves Hair Studio in Ashland (105-A England Street; 804 7982200; www.waveshairstudiova.com). Owners and business partners, Stacey Cole and Shante Harris Lee have done a remarkable job in creating a tropical feel, both with the décor and the sounds of beach music. The two ladies, Cole, a native of
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Maine, and Lee, who grew up in Rockville, met about four years ago when they co-managed a hair salon in Western Henrico. “We worked well together,” says Cole. “We both agreed that we would like to have our own salon where we would be able to give each client the personalized service she (or he) deserves.” “We wanted to get away from corporate America,” Lee adds, “where clients are more a number than an individual.” The two women decided that in order to do that, they needed to go into business together. “We both wanted to be in Hanover County,” Cole says. “We love Ashland…the hometown feel, the people.” In addition to a desire to provide truly personalized service, both women shared another philosophy...getting a haircut or style shouldn’t cost an arm and a leg. “We want to make people feel good, not just about the service, but also because of the reasonable prices,” Lee says. “Here, at Waves you can get an amazing hair cut for under twenty dollars.” Waves offers a full range of services, in addition to the cut and style, such as perming and straightening services, coloring, and waxing. The salon features an extensive line of both Redken and Mizani hair products, and both ladies are master specialists with Redken. “Waves is a friendly, inviting salon,” says Cole, “where you will look good and feel good.” n
Waves Hair Studio • 105-A England Street, Ashland 804.798.2200 • waveshairstudiova.com 10
RichmondNavigator.com | January / February 2013
family
AMILYy fFRIEN DL
museums!
T
While the winter months may bring cold and wind, these family friendly museums will warm and brighten your family’s day. BY KELLIE MURPHY
he Virginia Living Museum, located in Newport
exhibit, Adventures with Clif-
News, is home to more than 250 species of animals
ford the Big Red Dog, which will
and plants native to Virginia. Permanent exhibits ex-
run through April 21st. Also fun
plore life in a cypress swamp, in a mountain cove,
for kids are the simulated roller
under the Chesapeake Bay and inside a limestone
coaster and flight combat rides
cave. Visitors can also enjoy hands-on activities, the observatory, plan-
as well as the antique carousel.
etarium, wildflower gardens, and a boardwalk with animals in natural-
Kids can bring their sleep-
ized habitats. A traveling exhibit, Through the Eyes of the Eagle, opens
ing bags and “camp in” for over-
February 23.
night fun at The Science Museum of Virginia. Recommended for
Families can come face to face with the people and stories of
grades 3-6, guests will design and build structures and watch a movie
our past when they visit The Museum of the Confederacy and
at the IMAX®DOME. Reservations are required (February 8, March 8).
The White House of the Confederacy (located next door). In
Middle School girls are invited to register early for the “Girls In Technol-
addition to daily guided tours at The White House (a National Historic
ogy Camp In” sleepover where they will work with women in technol-
Landmark), the museum offers exhibits rich in artifacts, stories, and all
ogy, gaining experience and problem-solving skills (March 1). Children
things confederate.
of all ages will want to visit Raise the Roof (opens February 9), a hands-
Stroll through a tropical rainforest at The Smithsonian Mu-
on introduction to the world of architecture. LiveSky is an interactive
seum of Natural History’s newest exhibit, Orchids of Latin America
planetarium show that will take visitors to the stars and beyond (Feb-
(opening January 26). Also new to the museum is Portraits of Planet
ruary 15, March 15). And for the math-minded, come out and celebrate
Ocean: The Photography of Brian Skerry, an award-winning photojour-
Pi Day (March 14) to honor all things Pi. n
nalist who takes visitors on an underwater journey (opening March 5). In addition to their permanent exhibits, the Children’s Museum of Richmond will celebrate winter with The Snow Days Festival (January 19). The festival will feature snow-related activities, art projects, and treats (all CMoR locations). Special performances and the crowning of the Snow Queen will take place at the Central location only. In February, CMoR will celebrate Black History Month with performances (check the website for locations and times), fun facts, information, and special activities. The Central location will celebrate all things German when they host the Twilight Carniball (adults only) on March 2nd and the Kids Carniball on March 9th, a day-long event with music, food, and special activities (pictured above). The Virginia Air and Space Center features over 100 interactive exhibits detailing NASA’s most historic achievements. After more than three years of planning, a new exhibit, The Space Gallery, has opened its first phase, Space Quest: Exploring the Moon, Mars, & Beyond. Kids can enjoy “paws-on” activities at the museum’s newest
January / February 2013
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RichmondNavigator.com
11
Put An End
To Dry Mouth
I
s your medication leaving you with that “cotton mouth” feeling? Dry mouth is a common side effect of many medications such as an-
tihistamines, decongestants, analgesics (pain relievers), and diuretics. Not only can this seemingly harmless nuisance cause constant sore throats, speaking problems, hoarseness, and dry nasal passages, but persistent dry mouth can actually damage your teeth. Without enough saliva to wash away food and dilute the acids formed from plaque, your teeth are subject to rapid and often severe decay. There are, however, steps one can take to minimize the risks when medications cause dry mouth: •
Frequent sips of water can help to keep your mouth lubricated.
•
A piece of sugar-free hard candy can often help to stimulate saliva.
•
Brushing after every meal and flossing daily has obvious benefits.
•
The use of a topical fluoride as part of your oral care routine can be helpful. Ask your dentist about this, and have frequent checkups and cleanings in order to detect any problem in its earliest stage. You may not completely eliminate dry
mouth, but you can do much to significantly reduce the irritation and damage it can produce. n Dr. Baxter Perkinson & Associates is a Group Practice of over 40 Doctors Specializing in Orthodontics, Cosmetic and General Dentistry, Dental Implants, Prosthodontics, Periodontics, and Sedation Dentistry. With 11 convenient locations in the Richmond Metro Area we can assist you in creating your youthful smile. For a location near you, visit VAdentist.com.
12
RichmondNavigator.com | January / February 2013
Flavor photo by Tim Hill
Warm up with some Texas Roadhouse Chili! A combination of USDA choice sirloin ribeye and tenderloin ground fresh in house. Good Chili and cumin flavor with a slight hint of cayenne to warm you up on a cold winter day. Texas Roadhouse 1570 W. Koger Center Boulevard (by Chesterfield Towne Center) texasroadhouse.com | 897.7427
Restaurant Highlights: Brick Oven Pizza
Gus’ Italian Cafe & Sports Bar
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
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.
Awful Arthur’s
Mexico Restaurant
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
Part of the community for 23 years, Mexico Restaurant offers a great menu selection with something for everyone. Using the freshest ingredients to cook your favorite dishes, it’s no wonder this is Richmond’s award-winning Mexican restaurant. 10321 West Broad Street |559-8126 mexico-restaurant.com
Bell Cafe
Baker’s Crust
Stop by Bell Cafe for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a cappucinno and homebaked dessert! With house made soups, organic local salads, gourmet sandwiches, and fine dining entrees, you’ll find a new favorite at Bell Cafe. Wash it down with a craft beer or glass of wine. The Shoppes at Bell Creek. 746-4647. BellCafe.net
Breakfast, lunch and dinner selections showcase fresh-baked artisan breads and seasonal ingredients. Take advantage of a creperie where unique, flavorful crepes are hand-spun to order. Or have them cater your next event. Short Pump Town Center. 377-9060. BakersCrust.com
Find more great places to dine at richmondnavigator.com January / February 2013
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RichmondNavigator.com
13
F
or over fifteen years, Hanover residents who appreciate delicious, authentic Italian food have been enjoying Brunetti’s Restaurant, located at 9167 Atlee Road (in the Atlee Square Shopping Center). Despite the ongoing success of the restaurant, recent changes have been made, that according to owner, Antony Taormina, have been well received by the restaurant’s legion of long time fans, as well as others. Brunetti’s is now Brunetti’s Express, and the changes were made, says, Taormina, because of the success of the first Brunetti’s Express, located in the heart of Mechanicsville (8036 Mechanicsville Turnpike). So, how does Brunetti’s Express differ from Brunetti’s? “We’re mainly offering food to go or delivery service,” says Taormina. So, while the sit-down, formal dining is gone, Brunetti’s Express, according to Taormina, is better than ever. “We realized we could do it better (this way),” he says. Even the décor is less formal. The walls are brightly painted and include graffiti-
14
Brunetti’s Goes the Express Way like writings with such messages as: “Forget about it. Just eat!” Regarding changes in the dining experience, Taormina says, “For one thing, we changed our pizza recipe and added a new pizza oven.” He tells me that his pizza business has tripled since the changes. “I think we have the best pizza in town,” he says, “but I’ll let our guests decide on that for themselves.” One thing that can’t be beat, he says, is the price. “We offer a 16-inch pizza for $7.99.” Specialty pizzas include the bruschetta, a white pizza topped with tomato, onions, and fresh basil. The roasted artichokes and
RichmondNavigator.com | January / February 2013
spinach pizza is also quite popular. And you might want to try the French fry pizza, topped with, yep, you guessed it…and ketchup, too. There’s even a gluten-free pizza on the menu. And, as far as the favorite dishes from before, they’re still on the menu. “We took off some of the slower-moving items,” Taormina says, “but we kept our popular entrees, including the lasagna and the chicken parmesan.” One big change, Taormina says, is the sub roll. “We used to buy the sub rolls. Now we make them from scratch, twice daily. That means your sub roll is never more than an hour-and-a-half old.” And, in case you’re wondering about their very popular hot fudge cake, he says, “We’re not going to get rid of that.” Taormina says that in making the changes, “We didn’t sacrifice quality. We improved it.” He adds that in addition to the quality of the food, Brunetti’s Express offers its guests large quantities and at very reasonable prices. Sounds like a great combination for success. n
january + february JANUARY
JANUARY
Hollywood Costume Virginia Museum of Fine Arts Nov. 2013 through Feb. 2014 vmfa.org
18
19
The Magic Flute
Edgar Allan Poe’s 204th Birthday Bash
Willow Lawn Theater through February 10
JANUARY
JANUARY
20–21
Poe Museum poemuseum.org
va-rep.org
JANUARY
24
Chili Cook-Off Wine Trail Weekend
The Pipes and Drums of the Black Watch 3rd Batallian
hovawinetrail.com
Carpenter Theater richmondcenterstage.com
26
JANUARY
26
Umphrey’s McGee
Barefoot Puppets: Little Red and the Gingerbread Man
The National thenationalva.com
Gottwald Playhouse richmondcenterstage.com FEBRUARY
FEBRUARY
1–3
8–10
Billy Elliot The Musical
Central Virginia’s Home & Garden Show
Landmark Theater broadwayinrichmond.com
Greater Richmond Convention Center macevents.org
FEBRUARY
FEBRUARY
FEBRUARY
Progressive Insurance
Orchids Galore!
Richmond Camping RV Expo
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden through March 31
An Evening of Jazz with Molly Ringwald
Richmond Raceway Complex gsevents.com
lewisginter.org
8–10
14
FEBRUARY
14
FEBRUARY
richmondcenterstage.com
20–24
DIsney’s Mary Poppins
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey
broadwayinrichmond.com
thenationalva.com
FEBRUARY
19–24 Landmark Theater
17 Pentatonix
RIchmond Coliseum ticketmaster.com
Fo r m o r e l o c a l e ve n t s , v i s i t R i c h m o n d N av i g a t o r. c o m January / February 2013
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15
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3641 Cox Rd. • 270-4454 bigalsrichmond.com • See ad on page 12
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RichmondNavigator.com | January / February 2013
business watch
More Treasures Than Ever! Susan’s Selections has more than 15,000 sq. ft. in new location by Steve Cook
S
earching for high-quality furniture at bargain prices? Looking for that one-of-a-kind piece to give to someone who almost has everything? Or, perhaps, you just enjoy a treasure hunt, without any specific item in mind. Whatever your pleasure, the treasures await you at the brand new Susan’s Selections consignment and estates shop, located in the original Best Products store (4901 Marshall Street), just behind Krispy Kreme Donuts on West Broad at Staples Mill. Now, if the name “Susan’s Selections” sounds familiar, it should. The consignment shop has been around since 2006, but in a much smaller location on Staples Mill Road. “Our move has allowed us to triple our retail space,” says owner, Susan Campbell (pictured above). Treasure and bargain hunters now have over 15,000 square feet to explore and discover. And, Campbell tells me, she plans to expand by another 15,000 square feet soon to provide even more room for storage and for her monthly warehouse sales. To better understand just what Susan’s Selections is, and from where these treasures come, it might help to get just a little history of the business. The story begins back in 1998 when Campbell, a local businesswoman with a career in the printing industry, took on the responsibility of helping her father move into a retirement home. While trying to juggle her “day job” with the task of helping her father pack, move, and unpack, Campbell says she realized that she was preoccupied with the move while her father was dealing with the emotions and memories.“Dad was leaving the home he had lived in for 47 years,” Campbell says. “He wanted to share his memories and I was worried about the pots and pans. After the move, I realized how much better it would have been if I had paid attention to my father and had someone else pay attention to the packing and unpacking.” Shortly after coming to that realization, Campbell came to another. She could offer such services to those who were in similar circumstances. “Almost right away,” Campbell says, she began her moving business, which she owns and operates along with her husband, Roy Lambertson. That side of the business is today known as More Then Moving (See A MOVING EXPERIENCE, to the right). To best serve her clients who needed assistance in disposing of furniture and home furnishings, which they no longer wanted or had room for in their new residences, estate sale management was offered as a valuable component of her varied services.
Before long, Campbell says, she was beginning to accumulate a sizeable collection of furnishings, which she was holding in storage awaiting her clients’ sales. That gave birth to another idea…to offer those clients an additional venue in which to sell these items. Thus was born, in 2006, her retail business, Susan’s Selections. Campbell points to two primary factors that have led to the tremendous growth in the business since its inception just six years ago. One factor is, of course, the large number of Baby Boomers who are reaching that time in life when a move to a smaller home or a retirement home becomes a logical choice. As regards the second factor, she says, “Today’s economy plays a large role. Many savvy shoppers in an effort to save money, are choosing to purchase previously-owned furniture and other home furnishings.” Now, in her new location, just off West Broad Street, even more will be able to find the fabulous bargains. Speaking of that location, Campbell says that several of her customers have commented on their memories, from decades ago, of shopping for bargains at Best Products, in that very same building. During my recent visit, I discovered that Susan’s Selections offers much more than just furniture, although, indeed, there’s plenty furniture to be found. But I also discovered everything from china to kayaks. Susan’s Selections truly does offer something to delight even the most ardent treasure hunters. Once a month, Campbell opens up the warehouse to shoppers and holds an enormous sale of items that might not ever make it onto the showroom floor. She says that between the showroom and the warehouse, she has tens of thousands of items, from furniture, to decorative pieces, to old records (giant CDs to those of you under 40), to toys, to whatever you can imagine. I asked Susan Campbell what she enjoys most about the business. “It’s the people,” she says. “I love working with our elderly clients. We also have great customers and a great staff. And…,” she adds, “I love discovering the treasures. Every time I open a box, I’m thinking that there’s bound to be something really great in here.” To learn more about Susan’s Selections and More Than Moving, visit the website at susansselections.com. Add your name to their email list in order to be kept informed about upcoming estate and warehouse sales. n January / February 2013
A MOVING EXPERIENCE More Than Moving…the name says it all. If you or, perhaps your parents, are planning a move, Susan Campbell, along with husband, Roy Lambertson can provide a host of invaluable services. Perhaps you just need a moving service…someone to transport your furniture and other belongings from point A to point B. More than Moving can do that, but as the name implies, they do so much more. Packing and unpacking are among those services. “Many of our clients will have us set up their new home completely,” says Campbell, President of the company. “We can hang their pictures and curtains. We can even put the towels on the towel racks, if they wish.” Campbell tells of one client, who had friends come to the visit the day after she had moved into an apartment in a retirement community. The client had told her, “My friends said that it looked as if I’d been living there for a year.” Campbell says her company also offers consultative services to help clients in deciding what furnishings to keep. “We’ll measure their furniture and we’ll measure the floor space in their new home. We can then make recommendations as to which items will fit best. “Often our clients will make enough from the sale of the items they don’t keep to cover the expenses of moving,” she says. “Sometimes they realize considerably more than their expenses!” |
RichmondNavigator.com
17
Choosing to
Succeed By Steve Cook • Photo by Robert Thomas
“Y
ou’re a very ill man. I’m sending you to
“I would undergo a week of treatments,
a specialist right away.” When Ashland
eight hours a day, followed by two
businessman, Gil Miles
heard those words from his doctor, Brian Bittner, back in 2002, he says the impact didn’t really hit him, immediately. “I knew something was wrong,” he says. “I had been healthy all my life. But I had begun to have constant fatigue and dizziness.” From his high school days when he was on Henrico County’s Hermitage High School football team, Miles had always been involved in some form of athletic completion. Following his graduation from Hermitage,
weeks off. This went
“It’s important to stay emotionally balanced and grounded in faith,”
on for nine months,” he says. Miles, who is in real estate and construction with Virginia Real Estate and Development,
he says. “We all
says that he was
get to choose how
working for a por-
we will face problems in life.”
he attended Randolph Macon and had served in the military, even doing a stint in Vietnam.
able to continue tion of the two-week respites. “It took me most of that first week
after
treat-
ments just to get over the effects of the chemo,” he says.
During this time, and afterward, he had also been an
After nine months, Miles says he got
amateur boxer. More recently, he’s deeply involved in
the good news that his cancer had gone
competitive sailing.
into remission. And he remained cancer
As he entered the specialist’s office, just a day after his visit with Dr. Bittner, he noted the sign, “Virginia He-
free until 2010, when regular checkups revealed that his leukemia had returned.
matology and Oncology” (now Virginia Cancer Institute).
“By this time,” he says, “there had been
“At that point,” Miles says, “I assumed it must either be a
improvements in the medications used. The
blood issue or cancer. I knew what both of those words
treatments didn’t take as long, nor did they
meant.”
produce as many violent side effects.” How-
After examining him and having some blood tests
ever, he told me that during about one in three
done, Miles’ oncology specialist, Dr. Maurice Schwarz,
of his treatments, he would go into convulsions,
said, “I want you to come back this afternoon and you
rigors, which can last up to an hour and a half.
may want to bring a loved-one, a good friend, or your
As he speaks of his battles with leukemia,
pastor.” That afternoon, his doctor told him that his tests
Miles maintains his engaging smile, even laughing
had revealed a serious condition.
as he recalls some of the events surrounding his
“What is it?” Miles asked.
treatments. How does he stay so upbeat? I put the
“You have leukemia,” Dr. Schwarz told him. “It’s ter-
question to him.
minal. Without treatment, you might have a year to live.”
“It’s important to stay emotionally
Intensive chemotherapy began the following Mon-
balanced and grounded in faith,” he
day. “It was grueling,” Miles says, explaining the 40-hour
says. “We all get to choose how we will
treatment that first week, which resulted in violent
face problems in life.” continued on page 20 >
bouts with nausea as well as other disabling side effects.
18
RichmondNavigator.com | January / February 2013
raising the bar BOURBON – THE ALL-AMERICAN ADULT BEVERAGE
W
by Steve Cook
hen it comes to the history of bourbon, there is much we don’t know. There are some things we do know, and a thing or two, we thought we knew. First, what don’t we know? While there are quite a few traditions, with different folks claiming they or their forebears created bourbon whiskey, no one can say with certainty just where it began. Some claim that Elijah Craig, a Kentucky preacher was the “inventor.” They say he aged corn whiskey to produce the first bourbon. What we do know is that in 1789, Craig opened a distillery in Georgetown, Kentucky. But six years before that, in 1783, Evan Williams opened his distillery on the banks of the Ohio River, in Louisville. One myth regarding bourbon, certainly not one believed by any bourbon-loving Virginians, is that all bourbon whiskey must be made in Kentucky. While Kentucky produces about 95% of all bourbon, the whiskey can be made anywhere in the United States. And, in fact, Virginia plays an important role in the history of the beverage. After all, Bourbon County was originally in Virginia, until the Commonwealth of Kentucky was formed in 1792. So, technically, the first distilleries were in Virginia. But, in more recent history, following prohibition, the first bourbon distillery in the United States was the A. Smith Bowman Distillery (makers of Virginia Gentleman), originally located in Fairfax County. In 1988, due to the growth in that area, the distillery was moved to its present location in Fredericksburg. I asked Bowman’s master distiller, Truman Cox, how Virginia bourbon stacks up to its Kentucky cousin. “Bourbon isn’t really defined in regional flavors,” he says. “There is a different base flavor for every distillery. A. Smith Bowman does have a distinctive apple and pear note that is present in all of our bourbons.” For those who want to know more about the production of the product, the Bowman distillery offers free tours. (See their website for further details – www.asmithbowman.com) “Many visitors are delighted to learn the amount of work and time that goes into making America’s native spirit, says Cox. “One highlight is meeting Mary, our unique copper still named for Mary Hite Bowman, the mother of the Bowman Brothers. But the favorite, for all over 21 years of age, seems to be the complimentary tasting of the product at the end of the tour.” n
Mi Jalisco Kings Charter Village Shopping Center 9523-B Kings Charter Drive 550.4744 • mi-jalisco.com
HOURS Mon-Thurs 11am-9:30pm. Fri 11am-10:30pm. Sat 11:30am-10pm. Sun 11:30-9pm. HAPPY HOUR Monday: Domestic bottled beer $2, all day Tuesday: 99 cent tacos, all day Wednesday: Imported bottled beer $2.25, all day Thursday: Half off lime margaritas Friday: Jumbo lime margarita $5.95, all day Saturday: All beer $2.25, all dayl
BRICK OVEN 139 Hill Carter Parkway I Ashland 798.0495 HOURS Mon-Thurs 11am-10pm. Fri & Sat 11am-11pm. Sun 11-9pm. HAPPY HOUR Daily from 5–7 pm – 10-oz drafts $1.99/16-oz drafts 2.99; domestic bottles $2.50; Imports $2.99; Pitchers of Bud and Bud Light $7.99. GRAB A BITE Enjoy delicious, hot, brick oven pizza made with only the finest ingredients. Or settle your taste buds with calzones, stromboli, subs and appetizers, as well as their famous traditional Italian dishes, a light salad or soup. THEIR CLAIM TO FAME The emphasis is on the food at Brick Oven Pizza. There’s something for everyone—good friends and excellent food.
January / February 2013
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continued from page 18 Although he is not one to feel sorry for himself, or to share his suffering with others, he admits that on one occasion while undergoing chemotherapy in 2011, he began asking himself, “Why do I have to go through all this?” He says that the impact of cancer is not just on the sufferer. “It can traumatize the entire family.” But, as he questioned the reasons for his ordeal, he got an idea. Always the entrepreneur, Miles says he became determined to do something that would help raise money to be used in some way to assist those with cancer, and, at the same time, create a way to add enjoyment to his life and that of others who were going through similar circumstances. “Wine was becoming so popular,” he says, noting the number of wine tastings, winery tours, and other wine-related events with which he was familiar. Combining his love for wine with a desire to do something to help others, Miles came up with his cause: Wine For Cures. As an enterprising businessman, he has been able to elicit support of local merchants, wineries around the state, as well as the art community, to put together a variety of events. With some of the necessary legal and other expenses now behind him (including procuring a 501c3 status with IRS), Miles says he is confident that Wine For Cures can begin to raise some significant money to help others. One of his first endeavors is to provide refreshments and snacks to benefit those undergoing chemotherapy. Having many months of treatments, he knows how valuable such things can be. Despite the effects of his treatments, combined with the ongoing impact of leukemia, itself, Miles has not lost his joy for life and that joy is reflected in what he hopes to accomplish through Wine For Cures. “Our hope,” he says, “is to inspire, inform, and entertain while supporting cancer research.” The organization’s website (see below) makes this statement: “It is our goal to produce and participate in highly enjoyable projects and events that meet our mission; raising money for cancer research. Among the charity’s most popular events are the Arts Walks. On the night of the most recent Arts Walk, in Ashland, there was a sizeable
20
RichmondNavigator.com | January / February 2013
crowd on hand. Some of those in attendance were cancer survivors. Many were Hanover residents who took advantage of an opportunity to view the works of local artists, while responsibly enjoying some very delightful wines from the Williamsburg Winery. A number of those on hand as volunteers to assist in the event were fellow Hermitage graduates of Miles. They have remained close friends with Miles through the decades. In early 2012, Miles discovered that once again, his cancer has returned. Once again, he is forced to undergo regular chemotherapy treatments. “This may be something I have to live with for the rest of my life,” he says. “But, everybody has something they have to face. Some deal with diabetes, or heart disease, or other problems. Mine just happens to be cancer.” Gil Miles may not know what his future holds. But one thing is certain. Whether he’s pursuing a new business venture, promoting Wine For Cures, or battling cancer, he is determined to come out on top. “Success is not something you hope for,” he says. “It’s part of the plan.” Visit www.wineforcures.org to learn more
Looking for anandexciting about the organization its upcoming job opportunity? events.n
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ADVERTISING CONCEPTS, INC.
8324 Bell Creek Rd, Ste 700 • Mechanicsville, VA 23116 804-496-1820 • www.sweetlysmitten.com January / February 2013
|
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Susan-Moving_Hanover_Jan2013:Layout 2
12/18/12
4:12 PM
Carpets to kayaks,
antiques to contemporary.
Page 1
Love your family. Move them well.
Susan’s Selections Consignment Store
Our new location - 4909 W. Marshall St. in Richmond’s West End. Find it and buy it…or bring it and sell it!
Warehouse Sales Monthly.
Moving, de-cluttering, including empty-nesters, people combining households, busy professionals, newlyweds, those with disabilities and families who’ve lost a loved one.
Consignment Store 4909 W. Marshall St. Richmond
From Broad St. - turn onto Bishop Street at Krispy Kreme Donuts - store is on the left
(804) 232-6480
www.susansselections.com © 2012 More Than Moving Inc.
22
RichmondNavigator.com | January / February 2013
Move them well.
Call 804-232-6480 for Estimate
More than Moving
MoreThanMoving.com
© 2013MoreThanMovingInc.
Love your family.
A Sweet LoveStory
Their 18 flavors of gelato are made from organic milk and purchased from the only gelato distributor in the US that makes it from scratch and does not start with a powder mix.
By Steve Cook • Photos by Tim Hill
I
f you have been carrying on a life-long love affair with sweets, then you might want to plan a rendezvous at Sweetly
Smitten, in Mechanicsville (8324 Bell Creek
Owners Demi Emmanouil and Litsa Kotsis with their father, John.
Road, Suite 700; 804 496-1820; sweetlysmitten.
“We also have our Greek Pastries,” says Kotsis,
com). The two sisters who own this delightful
“which include Baklava and Kourambiethes (a
bakery, Demi Emmanouil and Litsa Kotsis have
Greek almond shortbread wedding cookie).
had their own ongoing passion for sweets, and
Our gelato has also been a huge hit.”
with good reason.
Many of their recipes came from their
“We come from a long line of bakers,” says
grandmother, Rose, and their mother, Mari-
Kotsis. “Our great, great uncle, Mike Pete, was
anthe, who “always made scrumptious des-
a confectionist in Colonial Williamsburg where
serts from scratch using family recipes that
he owned the Candy Kitchen. Our grandfather,
were passed down through generations.”
Tom Paparis, opened the first pancake house in
And, of course, you’re going to want
Williamsburg and the Yorkshire Inn Steak and
something delicious to drink with your pas-
Seafood Restaurant. The Yorkshire is still suc-
tries. “We have become a favorite location for
cessfully operated by our family.”
specialty coffees, says Kotsis. “Sweetly Smitten
So, one can hardly blame the two ladies,
offers a variety of such beverages as cappuc-
for leaving their successful careers (Emmanoui
cino, latte, mocha, espresso, and hot cocoa, as
was in real estate, and Kotsis in the investment
well as both hot and frozen coffee drinks.”
and insurance industry), to follow in the family footsteps. How can one love Sweetly Smitten? Let me count the ways, or at least some of
Sweetly Smitten can cater weddings and virtually any other type of event. They will also
Sweetly Smitten’s cupcakes are baked using
really is a Sweetly Smitten. “Our shop offers a
the finest and freshest ingredients possible.
family atmosphere,” says Kotsis. “Our display
Check their website for a menu, but just to
units came from Milan, Italy and boast a Euro-
stir your passions, consider such offerings as
pean retro feel. You can smell the aroma of the
the Black Forest, the Grasshopper, or the Key
cupcakes and the pastries baking.”
But the cupcakes are just the beginning.
Another delectable Greek pastry, Koulourakia, butter shortbread cookies.
cific needs. Yes, Virginia (Hanover, especially), there
products.
Salted Caramel Cupcake, made of German chocolate with a creamy salted caramel filling topped with vanilla butter cream frosting and crumbled toffee.
personalize their cupcakes to meet your spe-
them. First, there are the cupcakes. Ah, yes,
Lime cupcakes. They even have gluten-free
Baklava, a Greek pastry made of Phyllo pastry layers filled with crushed walnuts, cinnamon, and sugar and then drenched in a simple syrup.
There’s even free Wi-Fi, so you can email your friends and family and tell them you’ve found your one true love. n January / February 2013
A sampling of the deliciousness: Chocolate Lover, Banana Split and Carrot Cake cupcakes, Brownies, Cookies and Bougatsa (Greek phyllo puff pastry filled with an orange almond custard and dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon). |
RichmondNavigator.com
23
NEW YEAR ~ NEW THINGS! Monogramming
Available
Personalized Gifts With Monogramming!
Escapada available in February!
Vera Bradley • Escapada • Lolita • Greenleaf Evergreen Flags • Tervis Tumblers • Hen House Linens Gourmet de Village • Scout • Dansko Focus • Halia Jewelry (compatible with Pandora) Kameleon Jewelry, and MORE!
B E L L E C O T TA G E L L C . C O M
24
RichmondNavigator.com | January / February 2013
Ah, A Home Spa!
By Vicki O’Neal, ASID, CID, VSLD
othing conveys and inspires thoughts of relaxation like the anticipation of a rejuvenating spa experience. The appeal of spa environments and treatments is timeless and universal. Both women and men enjoy the benefits and restorative effects of treating oneself to a little pampering and down time. Instead of going out to a professional spa, why not create a space for the ultimate spa retreat in the privacy of your own home? Designing a private spa is easier than ever with innovative, cutting-edge products offering the gamut of basic to ultimate luxury bath experiences. Creating your retreat may involve a complete new bathroom design or renovation incorporating a multitude of special features. Alternatively, simply integrating pampering products into an existing space can provide a pleasing spa experience with a more budget-conscious focus. A spa bath retreat is in essence an extension of your master bedroom. These two spaces together create a personal enclave, and represent the most intimate of areas in your home. The experience should be one of sanctuary and private retreat from the world. The design should reflect your taste and style while blending seamlessly with the décor of your home.
Vicki O'Neal, owner of FORM & FUNCTION, provides commercial and residential interior and landscape design. She is a professional member of ASID, VA Certified Interior Designer (CID), Master Gardener, and a VA Certified Landscape Designer (VSLD) and a Horticulturist. 804.897.8558 FandFdesign.com Information in articles written by Vicki O’Neal is intended for general reference only.
home Home
MAKE A PLAN To maximize design and construction dollars, it is essential to create a bathroom design that is an enduring and ageless solution. Trends come and go, so careful selection of fixtures, hardware, lighting, colors, and materials ensures longevity. Although not always possible, the most efficient designs utilize existing locations for plumbing and electrical fixtures. This results in a reduction of day-to-day disruption and helps minimize costly rework. If a new design is not on your horizon, many spa-like experiences can be enjoyed with specialty products created for pampering regimens or beauty treatments.
Unique cabinetry and lighting, sculptural lines, and mini iridescent glass tiles combine to create a dramatic look for this striking bathroom. Design by Vicki O’Neal, ASID, CID, VSLD. Inset: Stunning finishes and unusual clear glass sink vessels create dazzling details.
An important privacy but space-hogging design is a wall-enclosed toilet room. Nothing else offers the same sense of privacy solitude, but a low wall can offer a moderate sense of seclusion and not impact the space plan so dramatically. Would you like a bidet? Check out space-saving combo fixtures. Dual sinks are nice if the space is available and the plumbing is present. If not, perhaps a second counter and well-lit mirror area will suit the need and save space and cost. Especially in renovations where square footage is at a premium, choosing to convert an area into a spa-equipped, enlarged and enhanced shower is a great option. Although a soaking tub or whirlpool looks great and is instantly a visual cue for relaxation, the space may be better utilized for a more frequently used function. Larger showers, perhaps accommodating two, allow for features including rain heads, body sprays, and steam units. There are new electronic controls with customized settings to meet individual preferences. On a practical note, verify that available
January / February 2013
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A sculptural freestanding bath is a powerful design statement and a work of art in itself. Photo courtesy of Victoria + Albert, vandabaths.com. • The channel shower drain is a unique product that transforms the look of any shower. A curbless, accessible shower with a contiguous floor tile pattern creates a beautiful homogeneous design. Photo courtesy of Quick Drain USA, quickdrainusa.com. • Wood cabinets resembling furniture are a handsome look for a vanity in small spaces.
water velocity and pressure meet the performance requirements of the specific fixtures.
FIXTURES and FEATURES If you plan to include a bathing tub, designing space for a freestanding unit rather than a built-in is an intriguing option. Many of these bath designs are sculptural works of art in themselves. Floormounted faucets, although sometimes expensive, make an attractive pairing with the bathtub. If your preference is a jetted tub, air-driven pumps offer gentle effervescent bubbles for a calm, meditative feeling. They also provide a higher level of sanitation and lower maintenance. For a grand effect, consider hanging a small-scale chandelier above a beautiful bath. Confirm building code requirements for mounting heights. Sink options are recessed, semi-recessed, and artistic vessels and bowls of glass, stone, and porcelain materials. For a unique installation, consider wall-mounted rather than counter-attached faucets. New hardware finishes such as black and chocolate brown offer some fresh color options. I frequently suggest including one of my personal favorite items: a hand-held showerhead installed on a glide bar. This arrangement is great for changing the height of the showerhead in seconds, and allows you to lift the head off its mounting for rinsing, bathing the dog, and is a real convenience on cleaning day.
DETAILS THAT SHINE Color and materials in bathrooms can vary from a simple monochromatic palette to the bold, high contrast, deep, and dramatic. Lighting and fixture selection always play a major part in safety and function. Lighting should also be designed in layers so that a specific ambience or mood may be created for different functions and times of day. Floor and wall tile are the most significant material selections
because they are the most permanent. Tile and stone offerings have made important shifts in recent years, with trends toward smaller, tiny tiles and, conversely, large-scale tile. Natural stone and textured porcelain tiles with finishes that mimic natural stone are great options for floors and counter surfaces, although you should consider maintenance when choosing natural stone. Border, medallion, and accent tile choices are endless.
CONSIDER… There is no other place in your home where a serious accident is more likely than in the bathroom. Planning to reduce potential hazards is paramount. Choices in finishes, hardware, lighting, and plumbing fixtures all affect safety. Along with building in safety considerations, incorporating elements of universal design enhances the future usability of the space. Surprisingly, universal design can actually enhance the aesthetics of a space rather than detract. Consider a shower with a curbless entry and no glass enclosure, a sleek solution disguising ease of access and use.
AH, SPA! What’s your definition of pampering? Could you fancy heated floors, towel bars, and toilet seats?! How about an in-mirror flat screen TV, installed so that it is only visible when it is turned on? For the ultimate experience, consider inclusion of aromatherapy, chromatherapy (i.e., light and color therapy), a comforting fireplace, on-demand hot water, and, of course, your favorite music. How about room for a private massage? Your spa bathroom is the most intimate and personal space in your home, so enjoy the most relaxing, nurturing, and pleasant environment possible. Visit my FORM & FUNCTION Lifestyle blog for more ultimate spa bath tips: fandfdesign.com/blog. n
see more photos at www.RichmondNavigator.com
Design services for home or business Interior Design
Landscape Design
• Space planning • Lighting design • Outdoor living • Hardscapes • Remodeling & additions • Furniture • Pools & water features • Construction drawings • Color & materials • Plant selection • Installation
804.897.8558 | FandFdesign.com | 26
RichmondNavigator.com | January / February 2013
/ FandFdesign
Why choose
Trinity Renovations, Inc.
for your next remodel? • We’ve been remodeling bathrooms for 10+ years. • We do not use subcontractors. • We have a showroom full of finished bathrooms as well as professional consultants to help you with your selections. • We take pride in our work and the care we give your home. • We’re licensed and insured. • We offer a FREE Consultation. • We will provide you with references upon request. Open Monday–Friday, 9 am to 7 pm Saturday, 9 am to 1 pm
OUTSTANDING VALUE • TOTAL COMMITMENT SUPERIOR PRODUCTS • QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP
6102 Brashier Boulevard, Suite H, Mechanicsville, VA 23111 | www.trinityrenovationsinc.com | (804) 318-1907 January / February 2013
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ion: s r e v i D f ursel o Y t I o A D
t n i a P d r a o b k l a Ch
by Jennifer Norvell Saunders
eed an entertaining DIY project for a cold winter’s day? Play around with chalkboard paint! It’s an easy, creative and inexpensive way to add some style while you personalize and organize just about anything. Standard black and green chalkboard paint colors are available at most home improvement or paint stores, but there’s no need to limit yourself. You can up the DIY rush by making a custom color of your own. Simply mix any paint you like with a bit of non-sanded tile grout, and boom: chalkboard paint.
The recipe
area. Wipe the chalk off with a barely damp sponge, and dry.
The ideas • •
•
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Pour 1 cup of paint (any color or type) into a container. Add 2 Tablespoons of non-
•
sanded tile grout (found at home improvement stores). Mix well with a paint stirrer to remove all lumps. Easy! Keep your batches small and stir the paint often because it dries quickly.
•
The technique
•
For most projects you’ll need primer, chalkboard paint and foam paint rollers. Buy rollers labeled as “smooth finish” to get an even paint application. Start by cleaning, drying, and making any repairs to the piece you’ll paint. Prime the surface if needed. After the primer is very dry, mix your chalk paint and apply with the roller brush, working in small sections. Paint several coats and let each coat dry completely before recoating. After your final coat, let your project dry thoroughly, preferably for 24 hours. Lastly, before you begin using your chalkboard, condition the surface by rubbing the side of a piece of chalk over the entire
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Paint a flower pot, label and give as a gift. Paint containers for the mudroom, playroom or garage to personalize, organize and identify the contents. Paint glass canisters, a wooden box, a tin, even a recycled food can. Fill and label. Erase and re-label whenever you change the contents. Paint the inside of a kitchen cabinet for your grocery list reminders Paint the outside of a cabinet as doodle space for kids…or adults. Create an art gallery wall and include a framed chalkboard for impromptu art. Or make the whole wall a chalkboard and hang empty frames to fill with doodles, quotes and notes. Paint an old door or frame and make a family message center or calendar. Paint a sheet of metal to make a chalk and magnetic memo board Put a chalkboard in the kitchen to welcome guests, post a menu or leave a love note. Turn a dull lamp into something charming by adding chalk paint. Put it in the guest room with a welcoming message. Paint the top of a table for fun dinner-time doodles, identifying party foods or marking seat assignments.
RichmondNavigator.com | January / February 2013
•
Paint the back of kitchen chairs to personalize seating. • Paint the base of a wine stem or the side of a tumbler so guests can monogram their glass. • Paint trays and use them to identify appetizers or cheeses • Make personalized greeting cards by taking pictures with creative chalkboard signs. If you love the idea of chalkboard décor but you’d rather skip the painting, head over to your local craft and fabric stores. You’ll find chalkboard decals of all sizes and even chalkboard fabric. Use the decals on walls, containers, even your refrigerator. The fabric is fun for a lighthearted pillow or playful t-shirt. n
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seniorliving
A G I N GGracefully:
How We Spend
by Steve Cook
T
o many of us who have reached the retirement years, it may seem that our income is more broken than fixed. Many seniors lament the fact that their dreams and plans for life after retirement have had to be put on hold, or greatly downsized. While we might not be able to do much about the current state of the economy, with constantly rising prices for fuel, food, and just about everything else, there are practical measures that can help us to squeeze those pennies for a little more mileage. Here are a few tips:
Food Shop store brands. Did you know that your typical savings can average about 25 percent when you shop store brands? Often you’ll find that the quality is very close to that of name brands. In a recent test, conducted by Consumer Reports, twenty-one name-brand products were matched up with similar store brands. In this test, seven of the name brands came out on top and three of the store brands did better. The rest were determined to be of similar quality. The Consumer Reports organization concluded that it is really worthwhile to give virtually any store brand a try. Use coupons – Don’t scoff. Even with modest use, the two to three dollars you may save can add up to a substantial sum when you consider annual savings. One savvy shopper told me that she saves 50 to 70 percent off of her family’s weekly grocery bill with the use of coupons from her Sunday newspaper alone (although she does admit that she may buy two or three newspapers a week to maximize her savings). While this particular shopper does not often search the Web for coupons, she says that she has found www.couponclipper.com and www.couponmom.com to be valuable resources not just for food, but for everything from home improvement to health and beauty supplies.
Medical and prescriptions Generic Medicines. While you may think this is too obvious to even be included, the fact is there are many who still have reservations about the efficacy of generic medications. By law, all generics must have the same active ingredients as their name-brand counterparts. Why are they so much cheaper? Because the manufacturer of the generic has not had to invest the millions of dollars that go into research, development, and testing as has the pharmaceutical company producing the name brand. Most prescription medications have patents that expire in ten to fourteen years. That’s when the generics are introduced. They may have a different shape, size, color, and name, but a generic will be the same medication. Most pharmacists can provide you with a list of generics that correspond to your prescription medications. Mail-Order Prescription Plans. Check your personal health plan. Many offer substantial savings if you order your drugs through their approved, domestic mail-order provider.
Travel Internet Travel Suppliers. While it can be beneficial to take advantage of airline and hotel senior discounts, oftentimes you can realize much greater savings by shopping the Internet. Thanks to William Shatner, we all are familiar with Priceline.com. Don’t be afraid to take
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RichmondNavigator.com | January / February 2013
advantage of the Negotiator, but keep in mind that there are some disadvantages, as well, such as not knowing exactly what you will be getting until you’ve already paid for it. In addition to checking prices on Priceline.com, you may wish to use a site such as www.tripmamma. com which allows you to compare the best offers from multiple travel sites at once. Online Dining Coupons. It’s a simple task to search for restaurant coupons for virtually any travel destination. Such sites as www. menupalace.com and www.richmondnavigator.com not only offer savings of 10 to 25 percent or more, but can also acquaint you with dining spots you may never have discovered on your own.
Banks and credit cards Senior Checking Accounts. Many banks offer checking account options designed especially for seniors. And even if you don’t consider yourself a senior…yet, shop around. Some banks offer such accounts to individuals who are 50 or older. Senior checking accounts often include free checks for life, as well as a bunch of other perks. Also take advantage of on-line checking and bill–pay options. Just the savings on gasoline and stamps can be a benefit. Credit Card Options. You’ve heard the expression, “It doesn’t cost anything to ask.” That can be a money-saving philosophy when it comes to your credit cards. Most card companies have retention departments that offer a variety of unadvertised cost–effective options. For instance, you may be able to get them to waive your annual fee or reduce your interest rate. It doesn’t hurt to shop around prior to calling. It could give you a little leverage if they realize you are serious about shopping for the best deal. Even if they don’t offer you any incentives to remain a customer, remember, it doesn’t cost you a cent to ask.
Real estate taxes Hanover County offers real estate tax relief for seniors who are 65 or older. There are other restrictions. See the county’s website for details – www.Hanover.va.us/comrevnue. The bottom line is you can improve your bottom line if you search for and, when appropriate, ask for discounts or other money-saving options and benefits. Just because you have done business with a particular retailer, drug store, or bank for many years, there is no reason to maintain the status quo if making a change can help you to realize savings. For additional money savings tips, visit the National Council on Aging’s informative website (www.NCOA.org) and search under “Money Saving Tips.”n
WoodsidE EstatEs. Locally built and energy efficient. Located just off of Patrick Henry Road in Ashland you’ll find Woodside Estates,
» Eight new spacious and open floorplans
a StyleCraft Homes community offering the beauty of rural living, the small
» First and second floor master suites
town charm of historic Ashland, blue ribbon Hanover County schools, and the
» 1/2 acre+ homesites
convenience of easy access to Interstate 95.
» Surrounded by parks and recreation areas
While other builders elect to build on small lots to accommodate a greater number of homes or ask a premium price for larger homesites, StyleCraft has made a conscious effort to keep homesites in Woodside Estates large and spacious, from nearly one half to well over a full acre, without sacrificing value and affordability. Eight floor plans ranging in size from 2,300 to over 3,700 square feet are available in Woodside Estates, each customizable to fit the resident’s tastes and preferences.
For information about homes and current incentives at Woodside Estates, please call Mike McLane at (804) 543-6601 or visit us online.
» Public water and sewer » Installed Comcast cable, internet, and phone » Fully-furnished model open seven days a week » Worry-Free Maintenance!