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Memorial Regional | Rappahannock General | Richmond Community | St. Francis St. Mary’s | Westchester Emergency Center | Bon Secours Medical Group
CONTENTS JULY / AUGUST 2017
First of all 08 All Over Hanover Strawberry Faire
Business Watch 13 Cracking the Code Corgibytes
Health 14 Back To Nature
14
Summer Skincare
26 Chemotherapy and Dental Care Virginia Family Dentistry
Flavor 16 In Search Of: Burgers & Brews 18 Kid Friendly Dining 20 Tastebudz
Home 24 Made In The Shade Bringing Shade to Your Backyard
32
Travel 28 Travel Navigator Your Guide to All Things Travel
29 Five Great Summer Escapes
Features
14 32 02 Hanover Lifestyle
A Few Favorite Spots for Day Trips or Weekend Getaways
The Hanover Tomato What Makes It So Special
Welcome to Historyland
Discovering the Northern Neck RichmondNavigator.com
Things To Do 35 Calendar of Events
WHAT’S GOING ON? Are you ready for some hot fun in the summertime? We’ve got some great summer fun suggestions and they’re all waiting for you at RichmondNavigator.com. All you have to do is search. We even give you the keywords. VIRGINIA BEACHING Annie Tobey covers three beaches, all in the city of Virginia Beach. Enjoy her article, “Three Beaches,” and then go enjoy the beaches. And once you’re done soaking in the rays and riding the waves, there’s still plenty to do. Discover another one of Annie’s excellent pieces from May of last year, “What’s New in Virginia Beach?” To read both articles, search: VIRGINIA BEACH
AL FRESCA DINING There are so many fantastic restaurants with wonderful patios around town. We have directories for such places in virtually every neighborhood. Just search: PATIO.
KAYAKING In his article, “Stay Cool Kayaking,” Don Kappel gave our readers some excellent info on the perfect spots to enjoy kayaking all around town. Search KAYAKING
PICNICKING That’s fun and it involves food. So, it’s doubly fun. Check out Tom Gresham’s “West End Fun” article and discover some great parks for picnicking. And you don’t have to be a West Ender to visit or picnic there. Search: PICNIC
WINING YOUR WAY THROUGH VIRGINIA We have some beautiful wineries around the state and last September, our favorite little (not so) old wine drinker, Lisa Puster, showcased several in her piece, “The Grape Escape.” Search: GRAPE ESCAPE ISLAND HOPPING An island getaway would be wonderful this time of year, especially if you didn’t even have to leave town. Jody Rathgeb highlights more than a dozen local islands that you and your family can enjoy this summer in her article, “Islands of River City.” Search: ISLANDS
Magazine Archives Find old issues from 2012 to today Calendar of Events Full listing of what’s going on in the Greater Richmond area Business Directory Restaurant, shopping & entertainment locations
From dining and travel to health and beauty, you’ll discover lots of helpful, informative and entertaining reading at RichmondNavigator.com. July / August 2017
Hanover Lifestyle 03
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From the Editor
Contributors
It’s finally here.
Angela Weight
I’ve been hearing about the Hanover Tomato Festival (not to mention drooling over those delicious Hanover tomatoes) since I moved here last year, and it’s finally arrived. Can you tell I’m excited? For nearly 40 years the Tomato Festival has served as the pinnacle of summertime fun in Hanover, with rides and games for kids, live music and over 200 local vendors all celebrating in one place. Check out Steve Cook’s story on page 32 for a look back at the history of the event, as well as all the details on this year’s festivities. In other local food festival news, photographer Katie Cartwright shares her images of June’s Strawberry Faire in our All Over Hanover feature. At this year’s event, ten Hanover high school students were awarded with scholarships for journalism, performing arts, technology and political science. The faire also boasts seven Strawberry Pageant winners, including Pickles Murphy, 2017’s Pet Pageant winner. And, because the surgeon general might very well warn against feeding your kids carnival food every night of the week, be sure to flip through our Kid Friendly Dining Guide, where we round up good eats for families of all sizes. From sizzling hibachi to kids-eat-free nights to food trucks at a brewery, we’ll help you take care of dinner for the nights when leftovers just won’t cut it. Also in our Flavor section, be sure to read up on our In Search Of…Burger and Brews feature to find local beers paired with Hanover’s best burgers. That Southern summer sun getting you down? We’ve got you covered, literally. Our resident beauty expert Susie Galvez has collected her favorite all-natural remedies to sooth everything from sunburns to bug bites, and all with ingredients you can find right in your kitchen. And on the home front, writer Jordan Langley shares design ideas to make your backyard a shaded oasis from the summer heat. And you’re in luck if you still haven’t planned a vacation for this summer. We’re expanding our Travel Navigator to help you get away from it all — whether you’re looking for cool travel gadgets, a deal on a tropical oasis or just a quick day trip. Steve Cook has so much to share about Lexington, VA in our series on small-town Virginia. From fantastic food and small-town charm to its deep historical roots, Lexington offers plenty to keep you entertained this summer. And if it’s the beach you’re seeking, look no further than the Northern Neck. Closer than the Outer Banks, there are quiet bay and river towns for every kind of traveler out there. Here’s to hoping you all make the most of this beautiful Hanover summer, however you choose to spend it.
Elena Marinaccio,
Elena@RichmondNavigator.com
Angela is a native of Middle Georgia who followed her husband (and his job) to Richmond in 2014. An insatiably curious freelance writer, she has covered everything from monster truck racing to the latest embalming techniques (though not in the same article). When Angela isn’t clicking away on her laptop, she can usually be found at a baseball field cheering for one of her sons.
Jordan Langley
Jordan Langley’s insightful essays about parenting and grief have appeared in Richmond Family Magazine, Brain, Child and Hello Grief, a website affiliated with Comfort Zone Camp. She is polishing up her debut novel. Jordan is a writer, literacy advocate and sports mom living in Moseley with her husband and two sons. Follow her on Twitter @jordan_langley.
Katie Cartwright
Katie is a photographer based in Ashland, VA specializing in senior portraits, headshots, and brand images for small creative businesses. She lives in Ashland with her husband, Keith, and their two school-age boys who keep her busy with school activities and sports. When time allows, she likes to travel to new places and occasionally a few old favorite places, too.
Josh Young
In Our Next Issue:
Get ready for our Annual Beer, Wine & Sprits issue! We’re raising the bar with our ultimate brewery list, Richmond Navigator Wine Trail, tasting notes from a certified cicerone, and much more.
PLUS: In Search Of…BBQ Small Town Virginia getaways All Over Hanover Look for the next issue of Hanover Lifestyle coming in early September.
06 Hanover Lifestyle
RichmondNavigator.com
Josh Young is a photographer and educator, as well as a recent Richmond transplant. He earned his degrees from West Virginia University where he worked as a photo journalist, and an event and portrait photographer. His news photos have been used nationwide through the Associated Press. When he’s not behind the camera, he can be found reading a good book, or trying to sample all the great food that Richmond has to offer. To see some of his work, view his Instagram: @joshuayoungphoto.
Thrill of the Hunt PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER
William J. Davis, Jr.
VICE-PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER
Cheryl T. Davis
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Steve Cook
MANAGING EDITOR
Elena Marinaccio
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Tammy Wersinger
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Michael Lay
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Ryan Hooley
CONTRIBUTING GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Joey Wharton
ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES
Jack Smith, Cary Webb
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PHOTOGRAPHERS
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ABOUT OUR COVER Just what IS it about a Hanover tomato that makes it a Hanover tomato? Editor-in-Chief Steve Cook decided to find out the story behind the legend and the upcoming 39th Hanover Tomato Festival. Also in this issue, check out Made in the Shade for ways to bring shade to your yard.
804-335-1063 | double-oughtfloors.com | 40 Broad Street Rd., Manakin-Sabot, VA 23103 July / August 2017
Hanover Lifestyle 07
All Over Hanover
STRAWBERRY FAIRE by Elena Marinaccio Photos: Katie Cartwright
B
aked, buttered or raw, the 35th Strawberry Faire in Ashland celebrated the glorious strawberry in all its many sweet forms. Held June 3 at Randolf-Macon College, the annual event and unofficial kick-off to summer featured live entertainment on three stages, over 300 vendors, and of course, lots of strawberries. The annual event averages approximately 30,000 visitors each year. The Faire, started in 1982 by Ken Gustafson of the Ashland Berry Farm, along with the late Dick Gillis and Tafi Yourtee, sought to bring the community together around the strawberry harvest while helping to promote local non-profits with a venue for fundraising. Community outreach is still at the heart of the faire’s mission to this day, with proceeds going toward grants for local non-profits and scholarships for teens attending Hanover high schools — almost all of the scholarships are given in memory of three of the founding members of the Faire, including Gillis and Yourtee. This year ten Hanover high school students were awarded with scholarships for journalism, performing arts, technology and political science. Estimates from Faire organizers boast over $100,000 awarded to various community members and organizations throughout the history of the event.
08 Hanover Lifestyle
RichmondNavigator.com
All Over Hanover
What's So Special About The
Hanover Tomato by Steve Cook
S
ummer’s here. Time for a young man’s thoughts to turn to…tomatoes? But, hey, this is Hanover, and we’re talking about Hanover Tomatoes — the savory little fruit that has had an impressive impact on our county. Even as a child growing up on Cary Street in Richmond, I remember my grandmother going into the Black and White Grocery Store and asking if the Hanover tomatoes were in yet. I never gave much thought to just what makes a Hanover tomato a Hanover tomato. What I’ve come to learn since those days of my youthful innocence is that virtually any tomato can be called a Hanover if it’s grown in the county. Bruce Haynes, who has been cultivating tomatoes and other vegetables in Hanover since 1971, agrees, “We grow many different variet10 Hanover Lifestyle
ies. And, historically, the eastern part of the county, east of Route 360, was the home to the Hanover tomato simply because of the flat land and sandy soil.” Haynes sells his tomatoes every Saturday morning from 9 ‘til noon at the Ashland Farmers Market, located just behind City Hall at 101 Thompson St. So, what’s so special about Hanover tomatoes? For my answer, I decided to go to an expert on the subject — Jane Dodd. She and her husband, Robert, started growing tomatoes in Hanover more than 30 years RichmondNavigator.com
ago and have operated their business under the name Dodd’s Acres Farm. For more than 25 years, they’ve been supplying the tomatoes for the annual Hanover Tomato Festival. “They say it’s the sandy soil,” Dodd says. “But I say it’s because they’re grown with a lot of TLC.” Tender loving care may also be the secret ingredient that allowed the Dodd’s to enjoy 63 years together as husband and wife. Sadly, Robert passed away suddenly this past spring while working at the couple’s packinghouse in Hanover. “He was where he wanted to be, doing what he wanted to do and he didn’t suffer,” Dodd says. “People would ask him when he was going to retire and he’d ask them, ‘Why should I retire? I’m only 86 years old.’” While Dodd says that she’ll be supplying the tomatoes for the festival once again this year, she’s uncertain about the future. “I’m taking it day by day,” she tells me. The couple’s three adult children have no interest in the tomatoes, except, she says, “They love to eat them.” For many years, she and her husband have employed seasonal workers through the federal government’s H-2A Temporary Agricultural Workers program. She says that during the peak season, more than 40 such workers will assist in planting and harvesting tomatoes and other vegetables grown on several parcels of land throughout the county. Dodd’s Acres Farm contracts with the owners of other farmlands to cultivate the produce sold through wholesalers along the East Coast. She also has a retail location at the packing house at 4077 Market Road in Mechanicsville.
O
f course, for many of us, whether we live in Hanover County or not, the Annual Hanover Tomato Festival provides the perfect opportunity to purchase and consume large quantities of this fantastic fruit. The festival had its humble beginnings nearly 40 years ago when, in 1978, the Black Creek Volunteer Fire Department introduced the event as a fundraiser. At that time, the festival was little more than a parade on McClellan Road, a celebration of local emergency responders, and Hanover tomatoes. Over time, the event’s popularity grew to
include children’s activities and local vendors as its location moved from the fire department to Battlefield Park Elementary School. In 1998, the event moved to its current location at Pole Green Park. This year’s festival starts at 9 a.m. on July 8, with a performance by the Hanover Concert Band, followed by opening ceremonies at 10 a.m. Live bands will be entertaining the crowds throughout the day. The Hanover Tomato Festival boasts live music and a variety of food and craft vendors, as wells as the MaterFUN Zone, with activities, games and prizes for kids. Mark your calendar for July 8 and find out for yourself what makes the Hanover tomato and the Hanover Tomato Festival so special. HanoverTomatoFestival.com. July / August 2017
Hanover Lifestyle 11
Celebrating Nearly 40 Years of Honoring Hanover Traditions.
12 Hanover Lifestyle
RichmondNavigator.com
Business Watch
Cracking the Code by Angela Weight When Andrea Goulet decided to take computer science as an elective at Patrick Henry High School, she had no idea that she was planting the seeds to a career as an internationallyknown thought leader in the high-tech industry and one of LinkedIn’s top 10 software professionals under 35. The Richmond native has come a long way since taking that basic computer class. Today, she’s a wife, mother of two, vice chair of the Richmond Technology Council, founder of LegacyCode.Rocks, keynote speaker, podcast host and CEO of the Richmond-based firm Corgibytes, named after the family’s Pembroke Welsh Corgi.
With Corgibytes, Goulet and her husband/ business partner Scott Ford, whom she met at her 10-year high school reunion, have created a high-tech niche, rewriting their clients’ existing business software code to improve functionality. “We call it software remodeling,” she says. “Many people identify as ‘makers,’ but we’ve defined the term ‘menders’ as those who take an existing app and make it better.” From watching an episode of This Old House, the pair realized that was what they wanted to do with technology. “You tend to your software just like you would update and remodel your house,” says Goulet. As for finding a work-life balance, Goulet integrates her family into her work as much as she can. “I really bring my kids into my work and
July / August 2017
my work into my home,” she laughs, noting that she once wore her baby on stage during a speaking engagement. To that point, Goulet is on a mission to break down workplace stereotypes and obstacles to advancement for parents, like lack of affordable childcare. Recently, Corgibytes paid to be the childcare sponsor at XP 2017 in Cologne, Germany where Goulet was speaking. Goulet’s first book, Becoming Technical: Build an Amazing Career in Tech Starting at Square Zero, is currently in the works, and she is pitching it to publishers, “I wanted to write a guide that will help people who don’t feel comfortable calling themselves technical.” To keep up with Goulet and find links to her Legacy Code Rocks podcasts, visit corgibytes.com.
Hanover Lifestyle 13
HEALTH
Back to Nature
Summer Skincare by Susie Galvez
T
ime to talk about summer’s shadier side: itchy bug bites, sunburned skin and dry hair from chlorinated pools. Don’t let such discomforts dampen your summer days. Easy remedies are as close as your kitchen and local health food store. Consider
these natural soothers for your summer-weary skin.
14 Hanover Lifestyle
RichmondNavigator.com
“Essential oils play a significant role in summer care,” says Nina Jacobs, owner of Nature’s Path Holistic Healing, an energy healing center in Richmond. “[As] we spend more time outdoors, it’s important to keep ourselves supplied with the right ones.” If the mosquitos and ticks are more than you can bear, Jacobs suggests using equal parts cedarwood, clove, lemongrass, eucalyptus, frankincense, thyme, rosemary, geranium and peppermint combined with a carrier oil to help deter bugs and keep your skin feeling healthy. For each drop of essential oil, use 3-4 drops of carrier oil. Most bottles designed for mixing oils, will have a measure guide right on the bottle. Then lightly spray, or rub mixture on exposed areas as needed. For bee stings, add a few drops of Ro-
man chamomile to a cold-water compress and gently place on skin. For wasp stings, add cider or wine vinegar, plus lavender to the compress. To cool yourself down and feel refreshed in the summer heat, use a small glass spray bottle of water with a few drops of peppermint oil. It is important to use glass containers, as essential oils may penetrate through plastic and leak. For these natural remedies to be effective and skin soothing, the oils should be therapeutic grade and nonsynthetic. If a sunburn has sapped your energy and your skin feels parched, it’s time to create a rejuvenating spa with a sensuous milk bath. — Nina Jacobs Mix one cup of powdered whole milk or two cups of fresh whole milk with a few drops of an essential oil (try lavender for relaxation or rosemary to rejuvenate) and add to running bath water. Lactic acid in the milk will help remove dead cells as well as soften and soothe the skin. For a soothing and natural summer facial, reach for a container of plain, full-fat yogurt. Apply a thin layer right out of the container to clean skin. Relax for 10 minutes, then rinse or wipe off with a damp towel. Your skin will look radiant, smooth and plumped to perfection. And let’s not forget the damage the sun can do to your hair. Banish dry, frizzy summer strands by massaging a tablespoon of olive oil into your scalp, then spread the oil out to hair’s ends. Leave it on for 15 minutes, lightly shampoo and rinse well. Olive oil has been used for centuries in beauty treatments, as it’s rich in vitamins A, E and antioxidants, protecting the keratin in hair and sealing in moisture. Scalp flakiness disappears, hydration returns and shininess abounds.
“Essential oils play a significant role in summer care, [As] we spend more time outdoors, it’s important to keep ourselves supplied with the right ones.”
Susie Galvez is an international image consultant, speaker, author, beauty industry expert. For more, visit SusieGalvez.com July / August 2017
Hanover Lifestyle 15
Burgers & Brews The heat is on, and there’s only one thing you’re craving — a cold beer paired with a juicy burger fresh off the grill. When it’s too hot to stand over the coals at home, make sure to check out our top picks for summer’s classic combo with a local twist: burgers and brews.
Kreggers Tap and Table
9523 Kings Charter Drive, Ashland; (804) 299-2176 KreggersRVA.com
The Cado Burger The Cado Burger is a half-pound of perfectly seasoned American corn-fed Angus beef topped with Monterey Jack cheese, fresh sliced avocado, mango pico de gallo and a generous dollop of cilantro lime cream sauce. Capping it all off, a non-gmo, organic flour bun made locally in Ashland, VA. Kreggers offers a variety of sides including hand-cut fries, jicama coleslaw or, pictured here, crispy Yukon Gold chips. Paired here with Legend Brewing Company’s Z-Dam Ale, on tap at Kreggers all summer long.
Photo: Josh Young
Jake’s Place Restaurant and Market
511 Thompson Street, Ashland; (804) 798-3287 JakesPlaceAshland.com
The Dixie This burger is all Southern, all the time. Dubbed The Dixie, this seven-ounce hand-pressed burger is grilled to perfection and topped with house-made Southern pimento cheese, fresh fried green tomato and applewood sliced bacon, served with a side of crispy fries. To wash it all down? Try a pint of Chin Music, a favorite amber ale brewed by Center of the Universe Brewery right in Ashland. Photo: Elena Marinacciio
16 Hanover Lifestyle
RichmondNavigator.com
Burgers & Brews O’Bank’s Café & Grill
10392 Leadbetter Road, Ashland; (804) 550-3888 OBanksCafe.com
The California Burger The California Burger from O’Bank’s balances cool (and healthy!) spinach and avocado with a smoky chipotle adobo aioli and creamy pepper jack cheese. All this gets piled onto a made-to-order beef patty, sandwiched between a brioche bun and served with your choice of fries, chips or slaw. The balanced bitterness and classic spicy/citrusy notes of Ray Ray’s Pale Ale, a rich, American-style pale ale from Center of the Universe Brewery pairs perfectly here. Photo: Josh Young
Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint
5810 Grove Ave, Richmond; (804) 285-1758 JackBrownsJoint.com
The Greg Brady And now for something completely different. We present to you: The Greg Brady. 100-percent Wagyu beef topped with house-made mac n’ cheese and Martin’s BBQ potato chips. Because sometimes the sides are so good they get piled right onto of the burger, and we know you’re hep in far out ways. Paired with house-made jack Brown’s sauce and Yukon gold crinkle cut fries. Malt undertones and a slight hop character round out the dish when paired with Blue Mountain’s light and crisp German-style Kolsch 151. Photo: Kim Frost
July / August 2017
Hanover Lifestyle 17
FLAVOR
KID FRIENDLY DINING Few things are more enjoyable than when the whole family hops in the car and heads out to enjoy a delicious meal together in one of Hanover’s many fine restaurants. A lot of our favorite places also offer kids’ menus, special children’s discounts and other attractions to make the meal even more fun for the younger ones in the family.
Mexico Restaurant
the Kids’ Menu. One free kid’s meal with each adult entrée purchase.
11670 Lakeridge Parkway (Ashland); 804-496-6911; Mexico-Restaurant.com
Giambanco’s Italian Grill
7162 Mechanicsville Turnpike (Mechanicsville); 804-559-8126
Any night is a good night for your family to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine at this long-time favorite local, family-run chain. There’s a special Kids’ Menu (ages 10 and under) featuring a variety of your child’s favorite dishes for $5.99, which includes a soft drink, milk or juice. But Monday night is Family Night, which means that kids eat free. One free kid’s meal (from the Kids’ Menu) with each adult dinner purchase. Family night is extra special at the Mechanicsville Turnpike location because there’s magic and balloons along with the tacos and quesadillas.
Awful Arthur’s Seafood Company 6078 Mechanicsville Turnpike; 804-559-4370; AwfulArthurs.com
Awful Arthur’s offers fresh seafood and a popular raw bar. And with coloring pages and crayons, this popular restaurant is definitely kid friendly. The Kids’ Menu (ages 12 and under) is also friendly to mom or dad’s wallet, with most items (burgers, mac & cheese, PBJ sandwich, etc.) priced at $5, and that includes your choice of applesauce or fries. On Mondays, the young ones eat free from 18 Hanover Lifestyle
7500 Jackson Arch Dr., Mechanicsville; 804-730-0900; TheGiambancos.com Bold flavors and traditional authentic Italian recipes combine with modern Italian dining in this family-run Mechanicsville eatery. With its Kids’ Menu, Giambanco’s offers delicious dining for the entire family. Kids’ meals run from $4.50 for the grilled cheese and fries to the Fettuccine Alfredo or the kid-size cheese pizza for $6 each. In between, you’ll discover such dishes as the cheeseburger and fries ($5), spaghetti ($5) and cheese ravioli ($5.50).
Bell Hut Asian Restaurant
8319 Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville; 804-781-4388; BellHut.com This one is a no-brainer — kids love hibachi. With fire, knife juggling, flying food and onion volcanos, there’s excitement in every bite as your little ones sit up close and personal with their dinner as it’s being cooked. The Bell Hut Hibachi For Kids menu (ages 12 and under) features a vegetable dish ($8) chicken or salmon ($10) and steak or shrimp ($12). All kids’ meals are served with a vegetable and include a choice of rice or noodles. RichmondNavigator.com
Brick Oven Pizza
139 Hill Carter Parkway (Ashland); 804-798-0495; Facebook: BrickOvenPizza Young or old, you’ll enjoy the delicious pizza, wings and Italian fare from Brick Oven in the Walmart Shopping Center. The prices are always reasonable, and kids have their own menu, featuring a slice of pepperoni pizza, fries and a drink for just $2.99. Other items, all including fries and a beverage, range from $3.50 to $4.50. On Thursdays it gets even better — kids’ meals are just $1.99.
Trackside Grill
301 S. Railroad Avenue (Ashland); 804-752-4688; TracksideGrillVA.com If your kids are into horses, they’ll enjoy all the pictures of local and famous racehorses on the walls. The diverse menu features excellent starters, soups, salads, burgers, steaks, seafood and more, including steamed crabs and shrimp. For the kids 10 and under, there’s the “Little Jockeys” Menu offering a variety of kids’ favorites, such as burgers, grilled cheese sandwiches, hot dogs and more. All kids’ meals are priced at $5.75 and except for the Mac N Cheese, they include fries.
NewFound Gathering Place & Eatery (formerly Ashland Coffee & Tea)
100 N. Railroad Avenue (Ashland); 804-2993604; Facebook: NewFoundGatheringPlace For a relaxed vibe with plenty of gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options, NewFound Gathering Place & Eatery is the spot to take your little ones. Their flex menu allows for easy
substitutions throughout the entire menu, much of which is sourced locally and housemade. Kids’ Menu items include PBJ and Grilled Cheese with a side of fruit or veggies for $6 each. Look a bit further and you’ll find kid-friendly staples like cinnamon bagels, yogurt parfaits and house-crafted muffins, rolls and coffee cake. Go on a Sunday afternoon and grab a deck of cards or Battleship from the Game Room for some homegrown family fun.
BOOK your
EVENTS
SHORT PUMP’S FIRST AND ONLY BREWERY
WITH US
Center of the Universe Brewing Company 11293 Air Park Road (Ashland); 804-638-0299; COTUBrewing.com
With delicious food trucks like Intergalactic Tacos and Bikini Panini, a pergola-covered biergarten and live music, your kids are sure to think Ashland’s brewery is out of this world. Check out Neighborhood Night on Wednesdays, where 10% of all sales benefit a different neighborhood association each week. Wednesdays also feature live music with their Biergarten Concert starting at 5:30 p.m. Check their website for lots of family-friendly events throughout the month.
11800 West Broad St.
Located inside Short Pump Town Center
(804) 237-1684 ROCKBOTTOM.COM
@rockbottomshortpump @rockbottom_rva
TRY OUR FRIED GREEN TOMATOES
Book Your Next Event at Hanover Tavern
Lunch & Dinner
Wed-Thurs: 11am – 9pm Fri-Sat: 11am – 10pm Sunday: 11am – 8pm
Brunch
Saturday & Sunday 11am – 4pm Reservations Recommended
(804) 537-5050 HanoverTavern.org 13181 Hanover Courthouse Road Hanover, VA 23069 July / August 2017
Wedding Ceremonies Corporate Events Receptions Lunch/Dinner Meeting Rehearsal Dinners Engagement Parties Hanover Lifestyle 19
tastebudz with Steve Cook and Elena Marinaccio
One thing that Elena and I do well is taste and tell. Once again, we have given tirelessly of ourselves so that we can tell you about some of the cool dining spots around Hanover.
DOWN MEXICO WAY: I love dining on the patio. You can bask in the great outdoors while enjoying a refreshing beverage and delicious food at the same time. All three of these components come together beautifully at Mexico Restaurant in Mechanicsville (7162 Mechanicsville Turnpike; 804-559-8126). I’ve always thought that their patio, hidden away behind the restaurant, was one of the most beautiful and welcoming anywhere in the area. But now, co-owner Maria Garcia tells me that she’s actually made the patio even nicer. “We’ve added more plants and made it more enticing,” she says. Maria tells me that her next project is to make the patio at the Ashland Mexico Restaurant more enticing as well. Or did you not know that there is a Mexico Restaurant in Ashland? If not, I’d encourage you to check it out. It’s located at 11670 Lakeridge Parkway, near the Bass Pro Shop.
Of course, truly delicious, well-prepared food is the primary ingredient that’s made this small local chain such a huge favorite with lovers of Mexican cuisine from all over the Richmond area. Maria and her family are always looking for ways to make your dining experience more enjoyable. And one of the things that has proven popular with guests is their nightly specials promotion. For instance, Monday night is family night. You can get the details in our Family Friendly dining guide in this issue. Taco Tuesdays are also very popular. And why wouldn’t they be with $1 tacos (chicken or ground beef) with any drink purchase? My personal favorite night may be on Wednesdays when their traditional lime margaritas are priced at just $3.99. Just imagine yourself now, lounging on the beautiful patio and sipping on a refreshing margarita. Throwback Thursdays are also a big hit with guests who can enjoy all of Mexico’s old-time favorites at an old-time price of only $8 per entree. That includes such all-time hits as their enchilada supreme, their taco salad or my favorite, the scrumptious quesadilla relleno. There are several more favorites to choose from. Check the specials and take a look at their menu online at Mexico-Restaurant.com. One more thing: From 3 to 7 p.m. every day it’s Happy Hour. The regular margarita is just $4.50, domestic beer is $2.50 and Mexican beer is only $3. If you haven’t already done so, now is the time to get to know your local Mexico restaurant. There are seven locations throughout Metro Richmond. (SC) 20 Hanover Lifestyle
FLEX APPEAL: Don’t let the historic signage confuse you. Ashland Coffee and Tea (100 N. Railroad Ave., Ashland) is now NewFound Gathering Place and Eatery, and it’s not just the name that’s changed. “We wanted to preserve the historic nature of the building by leaving the [old] sign up,” says NewFound owner Cate Hawkes, who opened the new spot in place of the iconic coffee house last November. The restaurant now offers what Cate calls a “vegan and gluten-free flex menu,” meaning that just about every meal offers easy substitutions (from local vegan Billy Bread to seitan “chicken” salad with vegan mayo) to suit different dietary needs. “You can add and take away,” Cate tells me. “We want you to just be able to come in and tell us what you want, and we’ll make it for you.”
NewFound Gathering Place boasts a friendly, inclusive atmosphere, with a genuine focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. “We do as much house-crafted as we can,” Cate says, citing everything from their horseradish pimento cheese to their brownies. And now a word about their brownies: they’re delicious, and they’re vegan. “We don’t call it ‘vegan’ because it tends to scare people away,” Cate warns, jokingly. She tells me they’ll experiment with recipes that are animal-free, often without touting the vegan label. A prix fixe brunch service kicked off this June, which includes a main, plus sweet and savory sides and coffee or tea, with cocktail add-ons like mimosas with fresh squeezed orange juice or a Spicy Sweet Vino Mary, which offers yet another substitution: A Bloody Mary that swaps out vodka for Pino Grigio. (EM)
Share your restaurant news and dining experiences. Email us at TasteBudz@RichmondNavigator.com.
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BAR-B-QUANDRY: The folks at The Halligan BAR-B-Q Grill, located at 10180 Lakeridge Parkway next to Green Top, have sure made life difficult for me. Here’s my problem. I never know which style of barbecue to order. North Carolina has long been my favorite. But sometimes, there’s nothing better than some good ol’ Texas barbecue. And I’ll often get a craving for the Memphis style as well. So, when I go into Halligan BAR-B-Q Grill, I don’t know what to order. They have all three…North Carolina pulled
pork, Memphis-style chicken and Texas beef brisket. Do you understand my perplexity? I guess I should just go more frequently. They’re open from 11 a.m. daily, serving sandwiches, barbecue platters and combos, or you can buy it by the pound, along with all of their delicious homemade sides. The Halligan BARB-Q Grill also delivers within a five-mile radius until 3 p.m. every afternoon. And since they’re gonna be driving out your way anyway, you may as well have them bring you a taste of all three. (SC)
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[PATIO] 11670 Lakeridge Parkway By Bass Pro (804) 496-6911
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Local Family Owned & Operated Hanover Lifestyle 21 12/23/16 8:58 AM
r e e B udz B
If the weather doesn’t tip you off to the fact that summer is indeed here, maybe our Beer Budz picks will. Chock
full
of
summer
pickin’
like
raspberries,
peaches and hot peppers, each packed with a higherthan-average ABV, these brews were certainly made for sipping outside.
Mango Habanero Brown Ale Lickinghole Creek Craft Brewery, Goochland 8.5% ABV
Summer Moon Raspberry Lemonade Wheat Beer Center of the Universe Brewing Company, Ashland 8.1% ABV Available now through the remainder of Summer Chris Ray, COTU’s co-founder, brewed this wheat beer with five cases worth of fresh lemon zest and 300 pounds of raspberries. While the beer will be available in early May, you’ll have to wait for Memorial Day weekend to celebrate the brew’s namesake, at the 5th Annual Summer Moon Music Festival. The free twoday festival features 13 local bands battling it out for their charity of choice. There will be several food trucks and three different draft beer stations on site.
Available May 20 This Limited Release Estate Series hoppy brown ale is brewed with Virginia six-row barley grown right on site at the Lickinghole Creek farm. Fresh mango flavor provides the sweetness and Mexican-grown habaneros provide the spice. Distributed in bottles and draft, this small batch brew will only be available for a limited amount of time — make sure to get to the award-winning farm brewery the day it’s released.
Love the brew? Leave us your tasting notes for these beers, or any others you just have to share, on our facebook page: RichmondNavigator.
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Hanover Lifestyle 23
HOME
Made in the shade
W
ith outdoor entertaining at its peak in the summer months, don’t leave your houseguests to sweat it out in your bare backyard. From stand-alone umbrellas to retractable awnings that attach right to your home, create cooling shade with these chic design elements for a summer of fun in — and out — of the sun. Pergolas are freestanding pressure-treated wood or PVC structures built over backyard sitting areas, patios or hot tubs. Greg Koehler, owner and lead designer of Richmond-based Outdoor Dreams, says that the majority of his clients opt for pergolas in their backyards. “For more shade, consider adding two-by-four wooden slats to the top instead of
24 Hanover Lifestyle
by Jordan Langley standard two-by-two trim pieces,” says Koehler. While white PVC materials can be used in lieu of wood, keep in mind it will stain quicker. Both materials are difficult to pressure wash. “Letting the wood age gracefully is your best bet,” advises Koehler. Create more shade by
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training roses and jasmine to climb up the lattice or by hanging privacy curtains. Awnings provide the most shade over a deck or patio. Bon Air Hearth, Porch and Patio carries models that bolt into the framework or roof of a house. The width extends over home windows, angles raise or lower and lengths can reach 13 feet, with motor deployment by remote control. Sunbrella fabric offers hundreds of color choices and debris washes right off. “They don’t look like they used to,” says, Macon Richardson, general manager. “These awnings are an investment with a 10- to 15-year warranty.” Quality backyard umbrellas, perfect for spot shading, come in two varieties. A fiberglass, center-pole umbrella with a
MADE IN SHADE 2
weighted base is the most traditional. Cantilevered umbrellas are larger, with a 360-degree aluminum framework that rotates over multiple areas — from seating arrangements to an outdoor kitchen — for maximum flexibility. These umbrellas are available in varying sizes, can match deck furniture and come with features such as auto-tilt and clip-on lights. For umbrella canopy color, Richardson says Rich-
mond-area clients choose grays and blues, but keep in mind that paired with neutrals, “red is a pop of color that’s popular and always has been.” Koehler recommends planting containergrown (rather than field-grown) maples, birches, willows and large crepe myrtles to promote shade. Birches have invasive roots, so plant away from patios and foundations. “Al-
July / August 2017
ways know the direction of the sun pattern in your yard,” he says, “You could have the perfect tree, but if it’s not in the right spot, it won’t work.” Trees supply beauty and respite — the natural way. Whether a dinner party gathers under a chic umbrella or settles under the dappled light of a shade tree, tip a glass to a lush backyard enveloped in comfort.
Hanover Lifestyle 25
Chemotherapy and Dental Care SPONSORED CONTENT
By Diane Iachini, DDS Unfortunately, approximately 4 out of 10 of people will be diagnosed with some form of cancer during their lifetime. If you or a loved one are diagnosed with cancer, there are some things you should know about how cancer treatment can affect dental health and certain types of dental treatment. Chemotherapy drugs are one of the most common treatments for many different types of cancer. And while those drugs kill cancer cells, they also can harm normal cells. Mouth tissue is especially susceptible, and many cancer patients develop problems with their teeth, gums, and the salivary glands. Everyone is different, and there are many different chemotherapy drugs, so not everyone will have the same side effects. One of the most common changes resulting from chemotherapy is a decrease in the amount of saliva produced, leading to dry mouth (this is also known as xerostomia). Dry mouth can be very uncomfortable and in very severe cases can contribute to mouth sores and very rapidly progressing tooth decay. Other possible side effects include pain in the mouth and gums, burning or swelling of the tongue, infections, prolonged bleeding, and a loss of or a change in taste. It is very important to tell your dentist if you have ever received any
sort of chemotherapy, as it can affect how well you heal or contribute to excessive bleeding following dental surgeries like extractions or implants. It might also be necessary to put off some of these types of procedures to decrease your chance of having complications. Before a person can start chemotherapy, their doctor will usually require that they visit their dentist. This can help prevent serious problems later in treatment, as pre-existing dental problems are usually to blame. Not all side effects can be avoided, but starting treatment with a healthy mouth will help keep the treatment schedule on track. After treatment starts, it’s important to carefully monitor your mouth for sores and come in for regular cleanings so that your dentist can continue to monitor your teeth and gums. To keep your mouth moist (the most common problem), be sure to stay well hydrated. Sucking on ice chips, chewing gum, or using a prescription saliva substitute may be helpful. Virginia Family Dentistry is a group practice of more than 50 doctors specializing in Orthodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, Dental Implants, Prosthodontics, Periodontics, Endodontics, Cosmetic and General Dentistry. With 12 convenient locations in the Richmond Metro Area, we can assist you in creating your youthful smile. For a location near you, visit VAdentist.com.
Our two Hanover locations: Atlee–Ashland, (804) 550-3324; Mechanicsville–Hanover, (804) 730-3400 — VAdentist.com
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26 Hanover Lifestyle
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Hanover Lifestyle 27
Travel Navigator Your Guide to All Things Travel If Your Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys… Saddle up and head on down to Victoria in Lunenburg County for the National Day of the Cowboy on July 22. Enjoy the Tom Mix Rangers, dressed in authentic western clothing and demonstrating roping, bull-whipping and horseback riding. Actual “Cowboy Shoot-outs” all day in town. Cool off your spurs at a number of local cantinas for breakfast and lunch, but stay on the lookout for possible sightings of Cowboys and Indians. There’s even a BBQ cook-off. VictoriaVA.net.
Photo: Jefferson Hotel
A Virginia Icon
Thrillist.com recently released its list of the most iconic hotels in every state. Who did they pick for Virginia? The famous Homestead Resort? No. The beautiful Hotel Roanoke? No. It was Richmond’s own historic Jefferson Hotel. The hotel has just completed a four-year renovation, transforming 262 guest rooms into 181 spacious new rooms, including 15 suites. A Grand Re-Opening Celebration provides a limitedtime value for guests to experience the all new Jefferson Hotel for themselves. Virginia residents are also invited to enhance their experience with an exclusive 20-percent discount off all food and non-alcoholic beverages in TJ’s and Lemaire, as well as the hotel’s room service, purchases in Gator’s Gifts and Blooms at The Jefferson, and services in Salon Vivace. TheJefferson-Richmond.HotelsOne.com
Six Flags America, located in Bowie, Maryland, unveiled its new 240-foot tall WONDER WOMAN Lasso of Truth extreme swing ride in mid-June. Named after the world’s most iconic female DC Super Hero, the towering 24-story-tall attraction whisks riders around a 98-foot circle at speeds of 40 miles per hour. The new thrill ride is adjacent to the park’s signature SUPERMAN Ride of Steel roller coaster. This year, the park is open daily through Labor Day and then on most weekends and select weekdays through Jan. 1. SixFlags.com/America.
28 Hanover Lifestyle
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Photo: Business Wire
The Lasso of Truth – Are you Ready to be Roped In?
Photo: SmithMOuntainLake.com
Great Summer Escapes by Steve Cook
Get Wet at Smith Mountain Lake: With over 500 miles of shore-
line, Smith Mountain Lake is Virginia’s most popular lake. In addition to traditional water sports like swimming, fishing, boat launching and boating, you’ll also find plenty of room to enjoy hiking, camping and picnicking at Smith Mountain Lake State Park. Smith-Mountain-Lake.com (3 hours)
been enjoying the pure, warm (always 98.5 degrees) crystal clear waters that flow through the county’s Jefferson Pools, named for Thomas Jefferson, who spent three weeks there in 1818. Bath County, located in the Allegheny Mountains, is a wonderful four-season destination, offering fishing, hunting, hiking, skiing, biking...Need we go on? DiscoverBath.com (2.5 hours)
Photo: Luray Caverns
Get Underground in Luray: Go down about
Get Rhythm along The Crooked Road: The sounds
Photo: Virginia.org
of country music beat strong and pure along the Crooked Road, Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail. The trail connects major heritage music venues such as the Blue Ridge Music Center, Birthplace of Country Music Alliance and the Carter Family Fold. Numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to fishing and boating, are also available. Virginia.org/TheCrookedRoad (3.5 hours from closest point in Franklin County)
300 feet or so and discover Luray Caverns. Bad weather won’t affect your one-hour tour of the most visited caverns in the Eastern U.S. Luray is located right at the entrance to Shenandoah National Park, which offers cascading waterfalls, spectacular vistas, and over 200,000 acres of family fun. TownOfLuray.com (2.5 hours)
Get Inspired in the Great Dismal Swamp: The gloomy eeriness
of the swamp has inspired poets, including Edgar Allen Poe. Virtually every group of people who have called the Great Dismal Swamp home have told stories of mystery monsters and terrifying creatures said to inhabit its waters, bogs and woods. You may be inspired by the variety of wild life. FWS.gov/Refuge/Great_Dismal_Swamp/ (2 hours)
July / August 2017
Photo: FWS.gov
Get in Hot Water in Bath County: Since 1761, folks have
Photo: DiscoverBath.com
Get Out of Town! No really, we mean it. There’s so much to see and do and taste and experience all over the state. Here are a few of our favorite spots for day trips or weekend getaways. (Approximate driving time in parentheses.)
Hanover Lifestyle 29
YOUR DOG WILL LOVE A VACATION! Call today to make a reservation!
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The Perfect Getaway… is Not so Far Away.
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Berkeley Plantation Explore Beautiful Gardens and Grounds, Rivershore, Museum and Artifacts Activities for the Entire Family
History and romance meet where the Potomac River meets the Chesapeake Bay … come stay in one of our historic inns and enjoy days filled with secluded beaches, wine and heritage trails, quaint towns, and pristine nature.
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Off of scenic Route 5 between Richmond and Williamsburg 12602 Harrison Landing Road, Charles City, VA 23030 (804) 829-6018 • BerkeleyPlantation.com
Plan YOUR perfect getaway at
www.NorthernNeck.org
July / August 2017
Hanover Lifestyle 31
Welcome to TRAVEL
Historyland The Birthplace of a Nation by Steve Cook
elcome to “Historyland.” While it’s been years since that term has been used in marketing Virginia’s Northern Neck, it certainly is an appropriate name. For untold centuries, Native Americans had been creating their own unique history on this peninsula that lay between the Rappahannock and the Potomac Rivers. However, from the perspective of the history of the United States, the Northern Neck could well be considered the birthplace of our nation. Not only were three of our first five presidents (George Washington, James Madison, James Monroe) born in the region, but the only two brothers to sign the Declaration of Independence (Francis Lightfoot Lee and Richard Henry Lee) hailed from the Northern Neck. As we begin our journey into Historyland, we cross over the Rappahannock River on U.S. Route 301. That brings us into the Northern Neck. We’re headed for the George Washington Birthplace National Monument (NPS.gov), part of the National Park Service. What you will not see here at the monument is the actual house in which Washington was born. That house burned to the ground on Christmas Day 1779. Scott Hill, the National Park Service’s chief of interpretation explains that what you will see is a memorial house built in the 1930s that reflects the style and furnishings of the early 1700s. “It is not a replica, nor a restoration,” Hill says. “It was built to put something there that visitors can identify with.” He explains that many come to the monument expecting to see a home much grander in style. “Most Americans don’t want to assume that George Washington was born in anything other than a Mount Vernon-style home.” If you’re ready for a little rest and relaxation after your tour, take some 32 Hanover Lifestyle
time to enjoy one of the few free beaches in the area. This delightfully secluded Potomac River beach is on the grounds of the park and is open to the public. A picnic area with restroom facilities is located about a halfmile from the beach. Less than 10 miles east of Washington’s birthplace is Stratford Hall (StratfordHall.org), the birthplace of another famous Virginian, Robert E. Lee. Stratford Hall is dubbed “the Home of the Lees,” who are among the “first families” of Virginia. As mentioned previously, two members of the family were signers of the Declaration of Independence. Stratford Hall is, indeed, the actual home in which Robert E. Lee was born in 1807. The “Great House” had been built by Lee’s grandfather, Thomas Lee, in 1730 and is truly one of the finest examples of Colonial architecture in existence. Period furnishings and family pieces, including Lee’s crib, can be found on your tour of the home. Different rooms are furnished to represent the four generations of the family that lived in the home from its construction to the early 1800s when the Lees were forced to vacate the property due to ongoing financial problems. The grounds surrounding the house may be even more fascinating than the home itself. The plantation covers 1,600 acres and has gardens, a kitchen, a smokehouse, laundry, springhouses, a coach house, stables, slave quarters and a gristmill. The plantation was home not only to the Lee’s, but to indentured servants and slaves who worked at smithing, candle making, coopering, tanning, liquor distilling and shoemaking. Dining and Accommodations: Two centuries ago, if you were to visit Stratford Hall you would have received a warm welcome, a comfortable bed and a fine meal. Today, visitors can enjoy the same. The Inn at Strat-
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Photo: Stratford Hall. Virginia Tourism Corporation
Photo: National Park Service
ford Hall offers a variety of accommodations in the Cheek Guest House and the Astor Guest House. Breakfast in the dining room is included with your stay. Lunch is served from 11:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. For information on lodging or for reservations, call (804) 493-1967.
Other Historical Northern Neck Attractions About an hour’s drive southeast of Stratford Hall lies Irvington in Lancaster County. This quaint town is home to the Steamboat Era Museum (SteamboatEraMuseum.org), which opened in 2004. Because of the steamboat, the Northern Neck connected much more with Baltimore than Richmond, explains Jean Ward, a volunteer at museum. “We used the bay and the water as our highway. There were no real roads that didn’t turn to mush,” says Ward. “You could travel by horseback or by water, and most people chose the water.” This is not a museum about steamboats, cautions Randy Graham, the treasurer of the board at the museum. “It’s a museum about the steamboat era” — an era, Graham says, that holds a very romantic appeal. “We try to tell the story about this period of time,” he adds. “It’s still part of the culture and the makeup of the Northern Neck.”
Photo: Michael A Geissinger
The history of the region’s watermen is another fascinating part of the Northern Neck and its culture. That history is well told at the Reedsville Fishermen’s Museum (RFMuseum.org), located at 504 Main Street in Reedsville. The museum interprets and displays materials that are historically important to the lower Chesapeake Bay, with special emphasis on activities relating to Reedville fisheries and the lives of the region’s watermen. This year, the museum is introducing its KidsKorners, offering hands-on activities for children of all ages. The interaction is designed to stimulate the senses and to keep younger ones engaged as the adults spend more time discovering the galleries. When I spoke with Stratford Hall President John Bacon on my visit there, he acknowledged that the Lee family home — as well as the entire Northern Neck — is rich in history, but lamented, “In some sense, time has passed us by. We’re not on the beaten path. We’re not on the way to somewhere else.” With all that the Northern Neck offers, be it history, outdoor adventures, fine dining or romantic getaways, it doesn’t need to be on the way to somewhere else. Make Historyland your destination this summer.
July / August 2017
March / April 2017
Hanover Lifestyle 33 Hanover Lifestyle 33
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Events Calendar
by Hanover Lifestyle staff
JULY 29
AUGUST 6, 13 & 20
Jump start your musical pursuits learning essential fundamentals and techniques to give the beginning guitarist a strong foundation while avoiding bad habits and pitfalls to which beginners often fall prey.
The Bluemont Summer Concert Series is held on the lawn of the Randolph-Macon Blackwell Auditorium. Bring blankets or lawn chairs. In bad weather, indoor location will be inside the Blackwell Auditorium.
JULY 29
AUGUST 10 – 13
Six String Primer - An Intro to Guitar
JULY 8
Hanover Tomato Festival This granddaddy of all Hanover festivals is a free outdoor family- and pet-friendly event with approximately 200 artisan and local business vendors, food vendors, musical entertainment and rides and games for children. And yes, the tomatoes sold at the event are true Hanover tomatoes. They are delivered early in the morning from Dodd’s Acres Farm. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. / Pole Green Park, 8996 Pole Green Park Ln., Mechanicsville / HanoverTomatoFestival. com
JULY 15 – 16
National Civil War & Antiques Arms Show The National Civil War & Antique Arms Show - 1776 to 1945 presents an opportunity to buy, sell, trade, or just browse some of the finest Civil War and Antique Military Arms in the world ... all under one roof! There will be 500 tables of high quality guns, swords, accoutrements, reference books, art, and more. Free parking and on-site concessions for your convenience. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. July 15; 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. July 16 / $10 / Richmond International Raceway, 540-672-4845 / NSTCivilWar.com
JULY 26-27
Annual Chincoteague Island Pony Swim and Auction Volunteer firemen round up the ponies on Assateague Island and on July 26, swim them across the channel to Chincoteague Island where they rest before being paraded down Main Street to the carnival grounds. On Thursday, the 27th, from 8:00 a.m. until noon, there is an auction held at the Carnival grounds to sell the foals. Once purchased, the ponies can be transported anywhere in the United States.
Bluemont Summer Concert Series
$5 adults; $2 children (under 12) / Randolph Macon Blackwell Auditorium, 204 Henry Street, Ashland 540-955-8186 / Bluemont.org
10 a.m. – 2 p.m. / $70 / The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen, 2880 Mountain Road, 804-261-ARTS (2787) / ArtsGlenAllen.com
Richmond International Dragon Boat Festival Richmond’s biggest spectacle on water — dragon boating. Led by the rhythmic beat of a drum, teams of 20 synchronized paddlers, one drummer, and one steersperson race 500 meters up the river in 40-foot canoes rigged with decorative Chinese dragon heads and tails. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. / Free for spectators; $1,595 Team fee / SportsBackers.org
AUGUST 5, 12, & 19
On Target Archery Learn the age-old skill of archery! All experience levels welcome! Learn about safety, rules, and equipment used in archery, instructed through proper shooting techniques. You’ll have lots of time to practice your newly learned skills on the range. Students can use bows, arrows, and safety gear provided by instructor for each class or students can provide their own gear. 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. / $30, plus $40 material fees / The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen, 2880 Mountain Road, 804-261-ARTS (2787) / ArtsGlenAllen.com
Richmond Jazz Festival One of the nation’s premier jazz festivals is back! Altria presents the Richmond Jazz Festival at Maymont! Come experience the world’s best jazz, great food, outstanding wine and the beautiful rolling hills of Maymont. Visit website for details: JazzAtMaymont.com
THROUGH AUGUST 31
Children’s Nature Hunt at Berkeley Plantation Bring the family to Berkeley and learn its amazing history while searching for treasures along the river shore, gardens and grounds. Children’s brochures and picnic area available. Nature hunt included with regular admission tickets. $12/adult;$7/child (ages 6-16) 9:30 am – 4:30 pm daily 888-466-6018 / berkeleyplantation.com
AUGUST 13
Annual Carytown Watermelon Festival Presented by Publix Supermarkets An old favorite with a new sponsor — and with 115,000 people, over 3,000 watermelons, 60 musicians and over 100 exhibitors. The Carytown Watermelon Festival presented by Publix Super Markets has become the largest one day festival in the state of Virginia! 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. / Cary Street throughout Carytown / CarytownRVA.com/Watermelon-festival
Contact the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce for further details: 757-336-6161 / Chincoteague Chamber.com
For a more extensive Events Calendar visit RichmondNavigator.com July / August 2017
Hanover Lifestyle 35
Robert H. Taylor, D.D.S. General Dentist
DENTURES | PARTIALS | EXTRACTIONS | IMPLANT RETAINED DENTURES Dr. Taylor has provided denture related services for patients in Virginia for over 25 years.
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New Mechanicsville Location Conveniently located just off I-295 and HWY 360 in Hanover Plaza
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AFTER BEFORE
MIRACLE METHOD SURFACE REFINISHING Offering Exceptional Quality, Value and Customer Service WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN, IN THE MIDDLE OF AN ECONOMIC DOWNTURN, YOUR COMPANY GOES OUT OF BUSINESS, LEAVING YOU OUT OF A JOB?
That’s the situation one Goochland resident found himself in back in 2009, when his employer, Circuit City, closed their doors for good. “You decide to go into business for yourself,” explains David Dowdy. Although his wife Elizabeth continued in her career as a consultant in customer service training, David says the two of them decided that they wanted to control their own destiny. “If we ever found ourselves out of work again, it would be because of decisions we had made,” he says. So the Dowdys began searching for a franchise that they could believe in. Their search led them to Miracle Method, the largest bath and kitchen refinishing company in the country. “The owners were such good, Christian people, with an outstanding product,” Elizabeth Dowdy says, explaining why they chose this particular business. The Dowdys recognized the value that the company brings to the consumer. Instead of homeowners spending $20,000 or more on a complete kitchen remodel, they could invest a small fraction of that and have a beautiful “new” kitchen. As a wife and a mother of three daughters, Elizabeth also recognized the benefit of being able to offer countertop refinishing with much less disruption to the family. The typical kitchen refinishing, she says, can be done in a day and a half.
The two most attractive features, as she explains, involve the great value in price and quality as well as the quick turnaround time. But, chances are you may want to know more. Such as: How does it work? The Miracle Method process, whether it be for countertops, bathtubs or flooring, involves the application of a nine-layer non porous coating which bonds to the existing surface. What will my countertop look like? “It looks like natural stone, “David says. “We have over 60 options of different stone finishes with lots of colors to choose from.” For bathtubs, the finish resembles that of your typical porcelain tub. She recommends visiting the showroom (see contact info below) to take a look at the textures and colors on display. The showroom is open from 9 a.m. ‘til 5 p.m. Monday through Friday or by appointment. Is it durable? Definitely. The Dowdys have many commercial customers and the process works well for high-use areas. For added peace of mind, your refinishing comes with a five-year adhesion warranty, although David says that through normal use, a homeowner should be able to enjoy 15 to 20 years of their new surface. What about mold and mildew? If there is an existing mold or mildew issue, Miracle Method will handle the abatement of such. Once the coating has bonded to the original surface, the likelihood of mold and mildew growth is eliminated. Are there any other services I might want to know about? Yes. Miracle Method can also make bathing safer with their Easy Step®. “We cut an opening in your existing tub which allows easier entry and exit for seniors and the mobility impaired,” David explains. More important than even the quality and value, Elizabeth says, is the customer service. “We strive to exceed our customer’s expectations on a regular basis.” But Elizabeth and David Dowdy’s commitment to service goes beyond their careers. As residents of the county for the past 11 years, they are both active in community service as well. He is a volunteer firefighter and EMT with Goochland County Fire & Rescue and she serves on the Board of Directors for the Goochland Chamber of Commerce.
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- Dave R, Richmond
2410 Granite Ridge Rd. • Suite 1 • Rockville, VA 23146
Take 1-64 to the Rockville/Manakin exit. Go North on Ashland Road for one mile to Left on Commerce Center. First Left is Granite Ridge and Miracle Method is on the Right.
Visit the Showroom: Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm or by appointment 804-749-8990 • MiracleMethod.com/richmond
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Meet Dr. Poonum Bharal. An active member and volunteer in the Ashland community, Dr. Bharal provides her patients with a top-notch experience, treating each patient with the utmost care and respect. Poonum is part of our team of dentists & specialists that can care for all of your family’s dental needs – from routine cleanings to braces, whitening and dental implants. And with 13 locations, you’ll find it all in one practice!
Atlee – Ashland Office 10500 Atlee Station Road 804-550-3324
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