West End's Best Mar/Apr 2013 by Advertising Concepts, Inc.

Why ZG? Because Weight loss and health is All WE DO!

• y discover

Call 358-1000 for information on our Chesterfield location classes– coming soon!! n

*ZG KEY®Programs, run by Dr. Madge Zacharias, qualify for most corporate flexible spending and HSA accounts; inquire with your Benefits Dept.

gy • kno

Work/travel all the time? ask about ZG’s sundays classes at northside loc.

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In just 5 short months at ZG I was able to accomplish so much! Not only did I lose 40 lbs, but I got off all of my meds. I’ve always enjoyed working out, but the motivation of trainers guiding and pushing me has been the icing on the cake. Now I’m a calmer, more relaxed person, too. –Jon Wilson

I’ve lost 86 pounds and 6 inches off my waist. My blood sugar, which was at pre-diabetes levels, is now normal and my cholesterol is now normal. I have more energy and my self-esteem has gone through the roof. The staff really cares; we’re like a big family. –George Lamb

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The support and education at ZG have really connected the dots for me. I now know that I can do this, it’s something I can stick with for life! I’ve improved my blood sugar, dropped my chol. and lost 50 lbs! I’m ready try line dancing, yoga, Pilates....So many activities, so little time! — Cindy Ayers

Health & Weight Loss – That’s ALL we do! e

My experience at ZG has been truly fantastic and the best decision by far in my life. After completing the Weight Management Program I felt invigorated, rejuvenated and full of life. I am loving the Continuation Program and reaping the rewards of my success. I’ve now lost 90 lbs! –Jacques Turnage

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Since joining ZG in May 2010, I have dropped 110 pounds and I’ve gone from a size 28/30 to size 14. And I’m not through yet! I have a ton more energy and a more optimistic attitude. The classes and staff are great! ZG is a very positive place. –Joyce Jackson

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I joined ZG after my doctor threatened to put me on diabetic meds. In the initial program I lost about 40 lbs; in ZG Continuation, I trained even more effectively and ate very healthy and lost105 more by my1 year anniv. I am maintaining my 145 lbs weight loss, off meds, too. It’s doable. Just part of my (healthy) life now. –Andy Saunders

I’ve lost 60 pounds since joining ZG six months ago. I’ve reduced my meds and I’ve greatly improved the condition of an old leg injury as well. Many thanks to all the wonderful and helpful ZG staff as well as all the new friends I’ve made at ZG! –Tom Burton

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10 Medical and Nutrition Lectures by Dr. Madge Zacharias 30 Structured Group Strength & Cardio Exercise Sessions Led by Certified Trainers Individual Nutrition Counseling Group Support Cooking Demos Professional Caring Staff Personal Grocery Shopping 7 Day Access to Fully Equipped Gym • Pool • Yoga Access to ZG KEY© Medical Staff and Registered Dietitian Visit Lots of Fun, Motivation & Success All “Under One Roof!”

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Health Assessments

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For years I couldn’t grasp the fundamentals of healthy living. ZG has provided the cornerstone for my understanding. Now I make educated choices about food and enjoy exercising. While I credit ZG with the basic essentials, I know my partnership with Shuryl is critical for 30 lbs of weight loss. –Cheryl Winston

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ZG is unlike anywhere else I’ve ever been. I lost 30 lbs and have kept it off for years now! I love the classes, have more energy, and I sleep better. I’ve even run a marathon! No matter what obstacles you face, at ZG, they KEEP YOU MOTIVATED! –Kara Walsh

ThE hIGhly SUccESSfUl ZG KEy© 10 WEEK hEAlTh & WEIGhT MAnAGEMEnT PrOGrAM InclUDES

durance

I’ve been overweight most of my life and thought there was nothing I could do about it. My co-worker, Pam Knight, told me about ZG. We attended the medical lectures and exercise sessions together; it really kept me motivated. I lost 105 lbs in 8 months, my meds were reduced, and normalized my BP. –Joe Polo

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I did the ZG SUNDAYS PrOGrAM and I’ve lost 40 lbs; now even moving with osteoarthritis is a lot easier. I’m no longer pre-occupied with weight. Working out and eating healthy is now just a fact of life; like the sun coming up in the morning. –Michele Martel

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I joined ZG after the untimely loss of my sister. I’ve now lost 25 lbs, lowered my triglyc. and I’m running a 5k in the spring. ZG is the best thing I’ve ever done for myself. The community, support and encouragement from the staff and members is amazing. –Amanda Batton

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I’ve been overweight and lived unhealthily my whole life. I have lost 85 pounds since I joined ZG a year ago. My cholesterol is down and my triglycerides dropped over 80 points. ZG has taught me the keys to live a healthy lifestyle and to reach my total fitness goals! –Doug Floyd

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I lost 66 lbs in 6 months! My blood pressure has normalized as well as my A1C. I have less joint pain, too. This has been a Iife-changing relationship. I’ll never regret the day I walked through ZG’s door. Thanks, everyone, for all of your help. I’d recommend ZG to anyone. –Bill Wooldridge

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My initial quest was to be at my personal best by January. Since joining ZG, I’ve lost pounds and inches I didn’t know were there. I haven’t felt this good since high school! Today, I know that living healthy is a choice. So, my BFF Cheryl & I continue towards our goal to becoming “healthy divas par excellence.” Thanks, ZG & BFF! –Shuryl Thompson

I AM SO PUMPED! My wife, Nancy and I achieved great physical results (I lost 44 lbs; dropped my BP; Nancy lost 20 lbs; improved her cardio functions), PLUS we have experienced a re-awakening of our attitudes and enthusiasm for each other. This is a terrific side benefit for couples considering joining the program together. –Terry Lentz

Next Northside Classes Begin March 20th and April 29th Call 804.358.1000 to enroll For info: MJGaney@ZGHealth.com 1311 Palmyra Ave. Richmond, VA

More Member stories at

BARNES & DIEHL PROF ILE: EDWARD D. BARNES

dward D. Barnes is the Founder and President of Barnes & Diehl, P.C., the largest law firm in Virginia devoted to family law. He has been practicing law for over 40 years in Virginia. He handles family law cases of all types, including the very highest level of complex equitable distribution and support cases. Mr. Barnes is a member of the faculty at the University of Richmond School of Law. Mr. Barnes currently serves as President of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Virginia Chapter. For several years in a row, he has been named a Top 100 Virginia and Top 50 Richmond Area Super Lawyer by SuperLawyers® Magazine. Mr. Barnes is again listed in Best Lawyers in America® and was named “Lawyer of the Year” for family law in Richmond, in the year 2010. He was the inaugural recipient of the “Leader in the Law” award in 2006, which is a recognition sponsored by Virginia Lawyers Weekly. He has been named a Legal Elite® by Virginia Business Magazine. In 2006, he was awarded Distinguished Alumnus of the Year, for the University of Richmond School of Law and he has served as President of numerous local bar associations. Ed frequently speaks on behalf of the Virginia State Bar, through their Virginia Continuing Legal Education Program. He has presented those continuing education courses for over ten years, throughout the state. Annually, he gives an update on family law, at four locations throughout the state, for the Virginia State Bar. Ed is active in his community as well as a licensed, instrument rated airplane pilot. He lives in Chesterfield with his wife and children.

BARNES & DIEHL, P.C. Centre Court – Suite A 9401 Courthouse Road Chesterfield, VA 23832 Ph: 804.796.1000 Fax: 804.796.1730

Three Paragon 6806 Paragon Place, Suite 110 Richmond, VA 23230 Ph: 804.762.9500 Fax: 804.762.9654

www.BarnesFamilyLaw.com A Tradition of Experience and Devotion to Family Law *as listed in US News-Best Lawyers: Top Tier Richmond Family Law

mention this ad by April 8th to save $64 on a new membership at acac Short Pump!

MARCH/APRIL 2013

Contents MARCH/APRIL 2013

BUSINESS WATCH 13 15

Project Plant It Rick Friedman: Law, Rock and Roll

41 43

RIVER CITY

SENIOR LIVING 16

When Aging Parents Need Help How to spot and react to signs of aging

FEATURE 19 26

Local Food Artisans

What's Cook In? In Search Of... Wings Scoop Du Jour Buz and Ned's Calendar of Events Behind the Scenes with the Richmond Raiders Joey's Hot Dogs is on the Move

www.richmondnavigator.com

See Downtown Leap Week: Richmond Ballet

pg19

Backstage with The Killing Daylights Swapping Hats: George Heath City Dining

DESTINATIONS 57

Spring Gifts Home Chefs Will Love

FLAVOR 30 32 34 35 36 38

47 49 50 52 54

Q&A: On The Butcher's Block

GLITZ

Music & Memories Where To Karaoke

The Spa Who Loved Me

PEOPLE AND PLACES 63 66

A Day in the Hills Where are the Visual Arts?

FAMILY 69

Throwing Parties at Home for Kids

pg66

AROUND THE HOUSE 71 74 76

Spice Up Your Kitchen! Richmond Marble and Granite Plant Now for Earlier Blooms

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER William J. Davis, Jr. VICE-PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Cheryl T. Davis MANAGING EDITOR Alaina Rauth CREATIVE DIRECTOR Trey Tyler ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Jared Davis Ann Small PHOTOGRAPHERS Robert Thomas Chloe Starke Corey Daniels Liz Reese Zach Wingold CONTRIBUTORS Steve Cook Jennifer Saunders Katelyn Wyzynski Tammy Brackett Tammie Wersinger Shonda Morisette Ron Moody Diana LeGere Ann Comfort West End’s Best Magazine is published bimonthly by Advertising Concepts, Inc., 6301 Harbourside Drive, Suite 100 Midlothian, VA 23112 • (804) 639-9994 RichmondNavigator.com Facebook.com/RichmondNavigator Email us: info@advertisingconceptsinc.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.

A PUBLICATION OF

ALL ARTICLES AND CONTENTS OF THIS MAGAZINE ARE NOT NECESSARILY THE OPINIONS OR THOUGHTS OF WEST END’S BEST MAGAZINE, ADVERTISING CONCEPTS, INC OR THE PUBLISHER

ABOUT OUR COVER

We searched all over the city to find the best local food artisans. They are dedicated to providing the best quality product to their costumers. Pictured is Olli Salumeria's warehouse. The story starts on page 19.

MARCH/APRIL 2013

B U S I N E S S

Project Plant It!: Learning to Love Trees

or the seventh consecutive year, Dominion’s Project Plant It! continues to blossom with new ways to engage Richmond’s third-graders in learning about trees and the environment.

Along the way, the program has earned the prestigious

W A T C H

PRESSURE? WHAT PRESSURE? So your home, deck or roof is dirty and you don’t know who to call. Maybe you’ve never owned a home or maybe you have lived in another area of the country and never needed your home’s exterior cleaned. Welcome to Richmond. With an average annual humidity around 65% you’re going to need it cleaned eventually. That’s when hiring a trained professional can come in handy. You’re in luck.

Public Awareness of Trees Award from the Arbor Day Foundation. In January, teachers received a kit with lesson plans, posters, stickers and other instructional tools. All of the materials align with state learning standards for math, science, language arts and social studies. A new lesson plan for 2013 helps students understand energy sources and uses.

Before

After

Chris Ginn left the corporate world in 2002 and started Power Wash This!, Inc. His company is based out of the West End and services the entire metropolitan area. They also service customers in North Carolina and Maryland. The company’s primary focus is helping homeowners and business owners take care of their property. “Power washing or pressure cleaning as it is known, is actually about trying to minimize the pressure. Proper cleaning usually uses a type of cleaning agent primarily to do the work, not pressure, and then the surfaces are properly cleaned and rinsed to get the desired result,” says Ginn.

“

The cornerstone of the program is the distribution of a redbud tree seedling to each participating student on Arbor Day."

The cornerstone of the program is the distribution of

a redbud tree seedling to each participating student on Arbor Day. "This beautiful tree species is native to Virginia, and children will enjoy caring for it and watching it grow," said Paulin Cheatham, spokesperson for Dominion’s Project Plant It! Since 2007, Project Plant It! has distributed more than 160,000 tree seedlings to students in seven states. According to the Virginia Department of Forestry, this equates to 400 acres of new forest if all of the tree seedlings are planted and grow to maturity. The website, www.projectplantit.com, features videos and interactive games about trees. Project Plant It! is provided by Dominion at no cost to schools. For more information, visit the website or Facebook page. n

www.richmondnavigator.com

Before

After

“Too often, I see damages caused by other contractors or homeowners who have purchased their own machine. Unfortunately, no training manual comes with a machine purchased from the local department store. Here’s your machine and good luck. We have years of training, including types of chemicals to use, how to apply them, and how to properly clean with the appropriate amount of pressure for the different types of surfaces we encounter.” Power Wash This specializes in all types of cleaning and restoration services: • Power Washing & Restoration of Houses, Decks, Roofs, Brick, & Concrete • Deck Cleaning, Sealing, Staining and Painting • Aggregate & Stamped Concrete Cleaning & Sealing • Garage Floor Coating • Window Cleaning • Gutter Cleaning & Gutter Guard Systems Call Chris Ginn at 804-677-4681 for your low pressure consultation and estimate today. You can also visit Power Wash This! online at www.washthisva.com. 13

MARCH/APRIL 2013

B U S I N E S S

W A T C H

at the moment may have produced less stress than a more typical visit with an attorney. But, if I were (being sued, that is),

ROCK &

ROLL

Friedman is the sort of attorney I could totally trust. It’s easy to hype the “We care” philosophy in a TV ad. But, it’s not as easy to fake that in the real world. Friedman speaks with both passion and compassion. “Most people don’t know where to begin when they come to my office. They are frightened. We see people at the worse time in their lives. Their whole world is in shambles. They realize that they could

hen you and your brother have a successful rock

possibly lose everything . . . not just their home and material

‘n’ roll band while still in high school, how do you

possessions, but their kids, their families.”

follow that up? When, by the time you are in your early twenties, you’re writing theme songs for

His background in the music industry has been of value in some cases. For instance, there was one client who had written

MTV hit shows such as Punk’d, and rubbing shoulders with

a hit song for a popular recording star. “We had to determine

such celebrities as Ashton Kutcher and Ozzie Osbourne, where

the value of his copyright,” Friedman says, “in working towards

do you go from there?

a divorce settlement.” His clients have included an NFL star

This is not some imaginary mental exercise. It’s a decision that faced Richmond native and Chester resident, Rick

athlete, as well as others in the entertainment industry. But, he says, it doesn’t matter if the client is a millionaire or

Friedman. Friedman and his brother, Brian, made quite a

has no money, he or she needs help in determining how things

splash in the music industry, even while attending Douglas

should be divided up.

Freeman �High School in the city’s West End. Their considerable talents took them to Hollywood, where

In explaining his approach to helping his clients, Friedman quotes a line from the movie Patch Adams. “It’s one of my

they both enjoyed a career in the music industry writing,

favorite movie quotes,” he tells me. “Patch Adams says, ‘If you

recording, and producing. “At one point,” Friedman says, “of

treat the disease, sometimes you win; sometimes you lose. If

the forty-eight TV shows airing in 24 hours on MTV, we had

you treat people, you never lose.’ ”

written the theme songs for forty.” Brian Friedman continues to live in Hollywood, and has had

Applying that philosophy to family law, Friedman continues, “If we fight for custody, sometimes we win;

great success in the music industry. Rick Friedman, however,

sometimes we lose. If we fight for the best interests of the child,

chose another path.

we never lose.”

“I enrolled in college while living in L.A. (both brothers had

Friedman has worked hard to ensure that everyone else in

previously attended William and Mary University), “ he says.

his office, including the other attorneys, share his concerns and

“My intention was to become an entertainment lawyer.”

compassion. “Before we hire someone new,” he says, “our entire

Those plans were soon readjusted. “I began to realize that

staff will take that person to lunch. We observe the way he or

music impacts a lot of people in a small way. I wanted to impact

she treats the wait staff.” He says he has, on occasion, chosen

fewer people in a much more meaningful way.”

not to hire someone who has treated the waiter or waitress in a

With his altered goals, Friedman returned to his hometown, completed his education at the University of Richmond, and went into Family and Divorce law. Apparently, it was a good decision and one that seems to fit

condescending manner. Despite the fact that Rick Friedman has already had a successful career in the music industry, and, even today, continues to keep his hand in the business, both as an

his personality. When I first met Friedman in his Chester law

occasional consultant and songwriter, what he gives his client

office recently, I was a bit taken aback. He didn’t look like what

is no song and dance act.

I had expected of a successful attorney. “Please excuse me for wearing jeans,” he said as he shook

He sums up his reason for choosing his career path. It’s the same reason that he often maintains a friendship with

my hand. “We don’t have court today (it was one of those

clients long after the case is settled. “I fell in love with the idea

one-inch-of-snow-closes-the-county-down days) and we take

of helping people. This is one hundred times more rewarding

advantage of that by dressing casually.”

than the music business.”

It wasn’t just the jeans, though. Rick Friedman speaks with real passion. He’s someone whom you could picture as being

Contact Rick Friedman at Friedman Law Firm, P.C.; 9620

a great friend . . . someone with whom it would be easy to

Iron Bridge Road, Suite 101; Chesterfield, Virginia 23832; (804)

talk. Of course, the fact that I wasn’t being sued for anything

717-1969. http://www.friedmandivorce.com. n

www.richmondnavigator.com

When Aging Parents Need Help: How to spot and react to signs of decline 2. Take stock of benefits. Visit BenefitsCheckUp.org, a site run by the National Council on Aging, to find out what benefits, discounts and programs your parent may be eligible for. Your local Area Agency on Aging offers information on in-home support, transportation, adult day care, skilled nursing facilities and senior nutrition programs. See a directory of those agencies at www.n4a.org. Is your parent a veteran or the widow or spouse of one? Eldercare.gov, a government-sponsored site, can direct you to your local veterans' resource center for help applying for benefits, among other services. If your parent is low-income, he or she doesn't have to be on Social Se-

Pay close attention to your aging parents on your next visit. Does the normally tidy house now seem neglected? Is there hoarding? Do you notice memory problems, confusion or physical unsteadiness? Discovering that a parent's physical or mental health is declining can be heavy on

the heart. It also can be hard on your finances. "The first thing we tell our clients is, don't panic," says Byron Cordes, president of the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers. "Come up with a plan."

curity's Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program to be eligible for in-home supportive services. And don't forget your workplace benefits. Some employers offer elder-care referral services or cover need assessments for a parent.

3. Timing is everything. Medicare doesn't cover most longterm care costs. Medicaid covers them under certain conditions. If your parent needs Medicaid coverage, timing matters, says Gregory French,

Feeling overwhelmed may prompt you to spend money on the wrong things, such

president of the National Academy of

as full-time care, when your parent just needs delivered meals or someone to run er-

Elder Law Attorneys, or NAELA, and

rands a few times a week. Here are some tips:

an elder-law attorney. Eligibility can be harmed if your parent makes cash gifts or

1. Assess needs. Ask your parent's physician what his or her physical and mental deficits are - assuming your parent allows you to sit in on appointments or consents to the release of their medical information. Also consider hiring a geriatric care manager - a social worker, nurse, psychologist or gerontologist with additional training and certification - for a consultation or

transfers assets within five years of applying for Medicaid, he says. In a best-case scenario, families work with an elder-law attorney before the aging parent loses the ability to make decisions.

an assessment. They know the nuances of elder care and local organizations that help

"We can still accomplish a lot, both fi-

seniors remain independent. You can find a geriatric care manager near you at carem-

nancially and care wise, for people who

anager.org.

wait until it's a crisis, but it's a whole MARCH/APRIL 2013

S E N I O R

L I V I N G

lot more stressful on the family and we could've gotten even better results had we been prepared ahead of time," French says. "The No. 1 goal is quality of life and independence and staying at home as long as possible," he adds. "By doing that planning, you're increasing the likelihood that that happens. If you don't do that planning, events are going to control you rather than you controlling events." Elder law attorneys' fees for even the most complex cases typically cost less than one month in a nursing home, French says. (Find a NAELA member at www.naela.org).

4. Factor in hospice care. If you're looking into an assistedliving facility or residential care home, which typically offers individualized care to a small group in a home setting, find out if it works with hospice - if or when the need arises. Not all places are equipped to do so, says Linda Fodrini-Johnson, a geriatric care manager. Ask, in the event my parent needs hospice services, could he or she still stay at this facility?

5. Visit your parent at different hours to see how new arrangements are working out. It's important to follow up to make sure your parent is getting the kind of care you want for him or her, even if you're paying top dollar. Fodrini-Johnson recently moved her 90-year-old mother from a nursing home that cost $10,000 a month after she found her mom was "ignored and overmedicated" there. Now her mother is in a small residential care home at half the cost and is happy, alert, well-attended and wellgroomed when her daughter visits. "Finding the right place makes all the difference in quality of life and in financial management," she says. ÂŠ 2012 MarketWatch. McClatchy-Tribune Information Services -- November 27, 2012. Visit MarketWatch at www.marketwatch.com. Distributed by MCT Information Services. www.richmondnavigator.com

Friedman Law Firm “When it comes to divorce, most people don’t know where to begin…”

Representing clients in divorce, custody, support, and asset division.

*Rick A. Friedman, II, Esquire

Legal Elite in Virginia Business Magazine (2011); Super Lawyer’s Rising Star by Law & Politics and Richmond Magazine (2006-2011); Top 100 Trial Attorneys in Virginia (2010, 2011, and 2012).

Friedmandivorce.com | 804.717.1969 18

MARCH/APRIL 2013

F E A T U R E

LOCAL food ARTISANS PRODUCING GOURMET DELIGHTS FOR YOUR KITCHEN By Tammie Brackett

ith a focus on healthy, clean cooking, those who enjoy practicing culinary skills in

their own kitchens are learning the art of using fresh ingredients sourced locally. The ability to meet and converse with specialty food gurus at farmers’ markets, store fronts and food stands adds much to the enjoyment of cooking with local, handmade ingredients. For home gourmets, the story of the elements of a meal—how they’re grown, raised, or prepared—becomes an intricate part of the home culinary cooking and dining experience. to fresh, flavorful and fun ways to utilize their exceptional ingredients in your own kitchen. www.richmondnavigator.com

Photo by Liz Reese

These local food crafters are dedicated

p Blanchard’s Coffee 700 Bainbridge Street Richmond VA 23224 (804) 687-9443 www.blanchardscoffee.com Based on a passion for great brews, Blanchard’s sources the best raw coffees from Africa, Indonesia and Latin America, develops profiles based on the inherent characteristics of each bean, and roasts to order in small batches of 60 pounds or less. “We’re a certified Fair Trade Organic craft coffee roaster focused on the highest quality, sustainable coffees from all of the major growing regions of the world,” says sales and marketing director, Stephen Robertson. by their Roast Lab at Bainbridge Street in Richmond to find new recipes and ways in which to use Blanchard’s unique roasts. Pick it up: Whole Foods Short Pump, Ellwood Thompson Market, and Good Foods Grocery.

MARCH/APRIL 2013

Photo by Liz Reese

Stephen encourages home cooks to come

F E A T U R E

q Olli Saumeria 8505 Bell Creek Road, Suite H Mechanicsville, VA 23116 1-877-OLLI-YES www.olli.com “We create from recipes that were handed down over four generations to our founder, Oliviero ‘Olli’ Colmignoli. Our products are made with pork from pigs raised on family-owned sustainable farms. The salumi business is what Olli has lived his entire life. He truly loves it and I think that shows in the product that he produces,” says Olli marketing manager, Jennifer Johnson. Home chefs can choose from a variety of salumi, salame, whole cured meats such as prosciutto, and speck for recipes. Jennifer also suggests the home gourmet would enjoy experimenting with Olli’s unique cooking fats like lardo, pancetta, and guanciale. Pick it up: Whole Foods, Ellwood Thompson, Libbie Market and on their website.

www.richmondnavigator.com

Photo by Robert Thomas

p Reginald’s Homemade Manakin Sabot, VA 23103 (804) 972-4040 www.reginaldshomemade.com

Made by Andrew himself in Manakin-Sabot, each jar uses only the finest ingredients—and very few of them. Reginald’s Homemade starts with Virginia peanuts and a touch of oil. Natural flavors have been added to the product

In 2010, Andrew Broocker was on a quest for a healthier lifestyle. Along the way, he saw an opening in the market

lineup such as Cashew Nilla, Bourbon Pecan, and Nana Honey.

for healthier and gourmet-tasting peanut butter. After

connecting with local farmers and businesses and pulling

Pick it up: The Fresh Market, Whole Foods, Ellwood

together a business plan, Reginald’s Homemade was born.

Thompson, Libbie Markets or on their website. MARCH/APRIL 2013

F E A T U R E

q Cavanna Pasta and Sauce 2272 John Rolfe Commons Richmond, VA 23233 (804) 360-9868 www.cavannapasta.com “From 2004 until 2007, we had a very decent rise in sales at our shop and focused most our efforts there,” says Gianni Cavanna. “After the economy nose-dived, we had two choices: close or adapt.” Cavanna Pasta chose the latter and began devoting most of their attention to servicing farmers’ markets with their enticing handmade selection of pastas and sauces. The home chef can choose from nine varieties of filled pasta, five kinds of cut pasta, gnocchi, and eight types of handmade sauces. Unique options include pesto and gorgonzola gnocchi, porcini ravioli, and pansoti—a folded pasta with ricotta, parmesan, and a little spinach. Pick it Up: Cavanna Pasta store, the South of the James Farmers’ market in Forest Hill park, and a limited selection at Whole Foods.

www.richmondnavigator.com

F E A T U R E

p Sausage Craft 2004 Dabney Road Richmond, VA 23230 (804) 354-0672 www.sausagecraft.com “We make some of the best sausage this side of the Mississippi, fresh, every week, by hand, from all-natural meats with killer spices and all-natural casings,” says Brad Hemp from Sausage Craft. Home chefs can choose from fourteen different types of fresh sausage to add to recipes. Brad emphasizes that home cooks would enjoy experimenting with Sausage Craft’s original Saturday Nite Sausage: “No one else in the world makes it! It’s crafted with pork, garlic, local beer, and loads of Siriracha chili sauce.” Pick It Up: Ellwood Thompson's, Vino Photo by Liz Reese

Market, Farm to Family, The Hoppy Dog, and

Little House Green Grocery. n

MARCH/APRIL 2013

....and lots of it!

WWW.989LIBERTY.COM

www.richmondnavigator.com

F E A T U R E

Q&A: ON THE BUTCHER'S BLOCK By Katelyn Wyzynski

hese days, everyone’s going vegetarian, going vegan. Red meat is out of the question for your neighbor, while your cousin eats chicken fourteen times a week. Too many people have too many opinions on what to buy, and when and why. If you want a filet this weekend and don’t know where to go get the best cut, you can start here!

What's the beef with the aging process? Is it the same for all meats? Better quality meat comes from stores that really teach and train “Beef is meant to be slightly aged if it’s to be served at its best,

their workers. Staff, according to Cauthen, is reflective of the quality

whereas chicken and pork are not. If beef is sold too young, it’s nat-

of the meat—not just in their knowledge, but in their actions. Look

ural flavors won’t come out,” says Tanya Cauthen, owner of Belmont

around the shop. Are employees using safe handling practices? Do

Butchery. Many grocery stores and big chain stores package meats too

they seem to enjoy their job? If the environment looks and feels good,

young. This enables them be kept on shelves longer, and often at a

the meat is good. At the Belmont Butchery, Cauthen goes over every

much lower cost. The meats still appear fresh, thanks to a modified

single piece of meat in the store and talks to the farmers who bring

packing process during which the meat is sealed with a preservative

it. Customers should trust that meats have been properly researched

gas that keeps the meat looking better for longer. This sort of packag-

by the butcher, who has already asked the hard questions about hor-

ing won’t harm you . . . just the flavor of the meat.

mones, antibiotics, and other factors.

So should I shop at a local butcher?

But what do all of those labels mean anyway—organic, cage-free, and grass-fed?

“Yes and no. You’re more likely to find the taste you’re looking for there,” Cauthen says. At a small shop everything is quality versus quan-

Just because something is organic, doesn’t mean it is the best

tity. Plus, you will find proper portions and unique cuts and options

choice—“organic” only concerns what an animal was fed, not how it

to suit your needs. “Butchers have stuff you’re not going to find in a

was raised. Similarly, “grown locally” only has to do with it proximity,

typical grocery store,” she says.

not quality. “Cage-free” or “free-range” describes animals that have

How do I choose a shop?

been allowed access to an outdoor, natural environment (vs. being cooped up indoors or in a cage), and “grass-fed” refers to animals that have eaten only grass or forage throughout their lives (vs. grain or

Don’t pick a butcher just because it’s NOT a chain. Many of today’s

corn based diets). Where and how an animal is raised affects its overall

grocery store chains now carry a line of higher-end choices as well.

health. At the grocery store, meats are graded by the USDA and will

Choose a store with informed employees who can answer your ques-

also mention these factors on their labels. If the labeling still seems

tions. “Labeling can be deceptive,” Cauthen says, “so you want knowl-

misguiding, though, just ask whoever is working behind the meat

edgeable staff.”

counter! n

MARCH/APRIL 2013

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F lG aL vI To Z r

SPRING Gifts

Home Chefs Will Love Every home cook loves nothing more than a gift for his or her kitchen or table. These products can dress up your serving table in no time. Whether you want a unique hostess gift or something for yourself, look no further than local boutiques!

On the Vine Serveware Michael Healy has designed a full collection of grape-inspired, polished bronze and natural bamboo platters, bowls, and cheese boards. Other styles are available. Tweed • The Shoppes at Westgate 249-3900 • tweedathome.com

Robert Thomas

Hen House Linens These soft 100% cotton table linens come in a beautiful variety of cheery spring patterns that are washer safe. Tweed • The Shoppes at Westgate 249-3900 • tweedathome.com

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What’s Cook In?

From Chunk

To Hunk! BY STEVE COOK

or those of you who haven’t actually ever seen me, here’s a well-known fact. I have

always been fat. I was a fat baby. My diapers were size 38. When folks commented to my parents about their darling dimpled baby, they were referring to my butt. The reason I’m writing this is not to celebrate my obesity. But to proclaim that a new day has dawned. I have long wanted to write a book about my transformation from a fat little baby, to a svelte, rather good looking specimen of a man. I was going to call it, From Chunk to Hunk. The only problem is that I stayed a chunk. I remember when my mother used to take me to buy school clothes and the salesperson would take one look at me and point to the Husky Department. “Husky!” What sort of label is that to put on a self-conscious young man? No wonder I carry all these emotional scars. Through the years, I tried a variety of ways to look slimmer. I wore overcoats, even to the beach. If I was ever at some family gathering where someone brought out a camera to capture the moments, I would stand behind the biggest and tallest family member…usually Aunt Betty. Folks would later ask, when looking at the pictures, “Steve, where are you?” I would point to a little spot behind Aunt Betty and say, “There. That’s my shoulder.” Admittedly, that was trickier to do in my wedding pictures, mainly because by that time, Aunt Betty was in a wheelchair. But, by kinda

Visit us to ﬁnd out where to dine—and enter to win Dining Gift Certiﬁcates for some of Richmond’s Best Restaurants!

stooping down, I halfway pulled it off. I tried dieting and exercise, both of which served to whip up my (Continued on page 37) 30

[RICHMONDNAVIGATOR.COM] MARCH/APRIL 2013

p Big Al's Signature Jumbo Wings are tossed in one of seven succulent sauces such as red hot chili, citrus chipotle, Jamaican jerk and Firehouse 22.

Big Al's Bar & Grill Watch the biggest games on one of the 15 HDTV's, including a 133" bigscreen. Enjoy all your favorite hockey teams on the NHL package. Come by for lunch of dinner for a delicious meal and exciting sports. 3641 Cox Road | 270-4454 bigalsrichmond.com

Buckhead’s Chop House “Extra-aged” steaks, fresh seafood, and an award-winning wine list have made this Richmond’s premier dining location since 1994. Try the steak tenderloin medallions with Vermouth Demi-Glace topped with Jumbo Lump Crabmeat, finished with Béarnaise Sauce. 8510 Patterson Avenue | 750-2000 buckheads.com

Mexico Restaurant Part of the community for 23 years, Mexico Restaurant offers a great menu selection with something for everyone in your family. Using the freshest ingredients to cook your favorite dishes so you can experience great food, it’s no wonder this is Richmond’s awardwinning Mexican restaurant. 10321 West Broad Street |559-8126 mexico-restaurant.com

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Legend Brewing Company Central Virginia's oldest microbrewery is ready to welcome spring on their huge patio overlooking the James skyline. Stop by on a Friday in March for Firkin Friday, when they will tap a firkin to pour in the pub until it's empty. 321 W. 7th Street | 232-3446 legendbrewing.com

Hondos Hondos offers the best of both worlds with its prime selection of steak and seafood. Featuring a variety of cuts like Cowboy Cut Ribeye, Filet Mignon, and Kansas City Strip, Hondos also has seafood choices such as twin South African Lobster Tails and Tuna Mignon. 4120-B Cox Road | 968-4323 hondosprime.com

Greek Grill Café Spend a night indulging in authentic Greek dishes such as spanakopita, souvlaki, moussaka, and gyros. The family-owned restaurant is decorated with brightly colored Greeceinspired murals and decor. 2313 Westwood Avenue, #B 355-4001 | greekgrillcafe.com

IN SEARCH OF

WINGS WINGS WINGS

Franklin Inn Some consider these wings best naked (but they are available with sauces, too). Try them with jalape単o mustard, buffalo or BBQ sauces. Served with carrots, celery, and a choice of bleu cheese or ranch dressing. www.franklin-inn.com 800 Cleveland Street | 716-9493 Photo By Corey Daniels and Chloe Starke

MARCH/APRIL 2013

F L A V O R

Chloe Starke

Robert Thomas

1. City Dogs in the Fan Try the Old Bay wings made with Old Bay seasoning or the WIld Turkey Honey BBQ wings made with Wild Turkey American Honey Whiskey, BBQ sauce and honey. 1309 W. Main Street | 359-3647

10 fresh jumbo naked wings, tossed in a secret, handmade "fully developed" buffalo sauce, served with celery and ranch on the side. www.thehalliganbar.com 2451 Old Brick Road | 364-2707

3. Hurley's Tavern

Robert Thomas

2. The Halligan Bar and Grill

Freshâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;never frozenâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;wings come hand-breaded with Shorty's breading. Try them with Hurley's homemade sauces (Mama's Sauce, BBQ, Spicy Marinara, Buffalo, Beam & Coke, Buff-a-que, Bubba Wing) and dry rubs (Blackened, Old Bay, Mexican, Zesty Garlic Parmesan). hurleystavern.com 4028-J Cox Road | 433-3332

Delicious wings served with a variety of sauces: Rich and Sassy, Buffalo, Devil's Spit, Pineapple Rage or Wilbur's Revenge. www.famousdaves.com 7009 West Broad Street | 755-4450

www.richmondnavigator.com

Robert Thomas

4. Famous Dave's

By Steve Cook ell, we told you in our last issue that Paul Hubbard, the original pitmaster at

Alamo BBQ in Church Hill, was in the process of renovating a restaurant in the West End in order to bring his very popular barbecue closer to (his) home. Good news! As we go to press in mid-February, Hubbard says that by the time you read this, his Deep Run Roadhouse (12379 Gayton Road; 740-6301; www. deeprunroadhouse.com) should be open and serving up all those deliciously smoked delicacies that has made the Alamo so popular, including his Texas-style beef brisket and ribs. Hubbard promises additional fare such as smoked fried chicken with waffles, fresh fish, bone-in pork chops, smoked leg of lamb, and bison burgers. As well as such “comfort foods” as mac & cheese, collard greens, and candied yams.

For Reservations 804-750-2000 8510 Patterson Avenue/www.buckheads.com

For quite some time, I’ve been waiting to hear the good news that Riad Moroccan Grill (8902 West Broad Street; 270-0081; www.riadva.com) has opened. Well, I’ve heard it. Located in the former home of Pasta Luna in the Gold Gym’s Plaza, Riad, owned by Richmond restaurateur, David Gil and his wife, Majdouline, opened its doors in early February. It’s all that David had hinted it might be. . . and more! Majdouline serves as the executive chef, and will be offering authentic Moroccan cuisine, prepared from recipes handed down from her grandmother. To complement the food, Riad will also feature belly dancers, magicians, and other entertainers. And, for all of you who’ve been scouring the West End for some really good Tex-Mex, here’s some more good news. Texas-based Chuy’s (CHOO-EEZ) will be opening at 11229 West Broad Street come spring. “Chuy’s is excited to become part of the Richmond community,” says Ben Scarborough, local owner and operator. “We pride ourselves in our unique, made-from-scratch recipes and we can’t wait to open the doors and share Chuy’s with RVA.” n 34

MARCH/APRIL 2013

F L A V O R

A TASTE

of the Menu ENTREES Barbecue Sandwiches, Spare Ribs, Baby Back Ribs, Chicken, and Brisket All 100% wood-cooked. Complete meals come with a choice of two sides in small size (one sandwich) or large size (two sandwiches).

Buz and Ned's

Takes the West End

SIDES

BY TAMMIE WERSINGER

Sweet Potato Fries Served with cinnamon and sugar.

alk into the new Buz And Ned's Real Barbecue on West Broad Street and you are immediately struck by the size and open space. The restaurant, which

Macaroni and Three Cheeses Served with a crusty exterior and cheesy

opened in April of 2012, boasts high ceilings with exposed ductwork, con-

interior.

crete floors, and a chalkboard menu. The original building has been com-

Baked Beans

pletely renovated with brick walls, garage doors, and salvaged materials, giving the new loca-

Made from scratch with three different

tion a comfortable and old-world vibe. Owner Buz Grossberg says about the renovation, "As

kinds of beans.

much as we could, we purchased pre-used, post-construction demo materials." The dining rooms feature wide-board tables and booths made from salvaged oak beams and reclaimed wood flooring. The fencing around the outdoor patio and pit area is constructed from recycled window security screens and scrapyard pipe. Salvaged materials come from across Virginia and as far away as New Orleans. Buz even found a functional, wooden, water tower from New York City. Still, it's the foodthe 100% wood-cooked barbecuethat keeps customers coming back to Buz And Ned's Real Barbecue. Buz, who traveled the country to learn about barbecue through-

DESERTS

out the regions, eventually met Ned, a barbecue legend from the mountains bordering Virginia and Tennessee, North Carolina. It was with a promise to Ned to keep his 150-year-old recipe

CHOCOLATE COOKIE

alive that Buz opened the original Buz And Ned's Real Barbecue on the Boulevard.

Loaded with flavor and baked fresh every

Since the original location opened in 1992, Buz has continued to win barbecue fans, even gaining celebrity when he famously beat Bobby Flay in a barbecue throwdown. But what continues to make Buz And Ned's so popular is Buz’s devotion to the food. "I never dreamed it would be so successful," Buz says. While further expansion is not an impossibility, the challenges of producing "real" barbecue are his highest priority. Open for lunch and dinner, the new Buz And Ned's offers the same delicious menu of ribs, chicken, pork, brisket, and assortment of sides. Although customers can order takeout or arrange for catering, you may want to stay in and dine. The West End restaurant features a giant fan over the dining room, an outdoor patio, and a long bar with flat screen TVs. Also located

morning.

Chocolate Brownie Sundae With freshly baked brownies.

Signature Beverages Hard Lemonade Made with fresh squeezed lemonade.

Classic Buz-A-Rita A margarita made with fresh squeezed lime juice.

within the restaurant is a mini-store that sells Buz And Ned's sauce, products, and memorabilia.

18 Beers On Tap

With a great new location, Buz has enhanced the local barbecue tradition and is sure to win

Plus 60 in bottles, 60 tequilas and 60

even more fans. n

American Bourbons and Whiskeys.

www.richmondnavigator.com

Calendar of Events Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile Thru March 14 Willow Lawn Theatre. va-rep.org

Based on the timeless picture books

by Bernard Waber, the production of this crowd-pleasing musical is perfect for the family! Join young

MARCH

Josh Primm as he moves to New York City, and share his magical adventures with his loving parents, his rambunctious new friends, his persnickety neighbor Mr. Grumps, and his misfit (but very special) reptilian pet, Lyle!

Orchids Galore and A Million Blooms Thru March 31 Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden Lewisginter.org Carrie Underwood March 21 Richmond Coliseum Ticketmaster.com Les 7 Doigts de la Main, PSY March 22–24 Alice Jepson Theatre Modlin.richmond.edu An Afternoon with Groucho March 24

Ukrop's Monument Avenue 10k

Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen

April 13

Artsglenallen.com

sportsbackers.org

Named one of the country's best

Virginia Opera: The Marriage of Figaro

races by USA Today, Richmond's

April 6–28

biggest block party is the place

Various venues

to be on April 13. With over

Richmondsymphony.com

40,000 participants, you're bound to be entertained–whether by

Pop Art and Beyond: Tom Wesselmann

costumed runners, party stops, live

April 6–July 28

music, a race for the kiddies, or

Virginia Museum of FIne Arts

the post-race party.

vmfa.state.va.us Coup de Théâre in Arcadian Settings

April 23

A P R I L

Delta Rae

Maymont Park

April 25

Maymont.org

Alice Jepson Theatre modlin.richmond.edu

From a quiet, country house nestled within the Durham, North Carolina woods, Delta Rae fuses its inspired four-part harmonies with a rich Carolina soul. They are Mumford & Sons meets Fleetwood Mac– an Alt-Pop band with four lead singers whose music incorporates all aspects of Americana.

NASCAR Weekend April 26–28 Richmond Raceway Complex Richmondracewaycomplex.com Glow Run 5k May 11 Richmond Raceway Complex Richmondracewaycomplex.com

MARCH/APRIL 2013

F L A V O R (Continued from page 30) appetite. But I think the most successful thing that I discovered, to help me look less obese, was to only have really fat people for friends. If you weigh 240 pounds, but all of your friends weigh at least 300, you look pretty good by comparison. I had virtually given up on the idea that I would ever become the hunk that I had dreamed of being. And then, suddenly, a moment of magic came into my life. While on vacation at Virginia Beach last summer, with my wife’s brother and his wife and kids, my life began to turn around. Now, being at the beach, I was constantly being reminded of my hugeness as I sat at the poolside bar, eating hamburgers and French fries. I couldn’t help but see myself in the mirror behind the bar…in a bathing suit…and an overcoat. It was not a pretty sight. My sister-in-law, who just happens to be a doctor and an avid nutritionist, turned me on to a book called Wheat Belly by Dr. William Davis. She explained his beliefs that the consumption of modern day wheat is at the root of obesity, diabetes, and heart problems. I had hit the Trifecta, there. Plus, he claims, it leads to numerous other health problems. While I’m not trying to preach a new way of eating to you, I will say that by cutting out all wheat, plus potatoes and rice, I’ve lost about 30 pounds. My health has improved dramatically, which is not something you’ll often hear an avowed hypochondriac admit. One unexpected side-effect of my weight loss is that I have to go to the bathroom more frequently. No, it’s not a physical problem. I just can’t stay away from the mirror. I turn sideways,

Based on the cuisine of Italy’s 20 regions

suck in my breath and say, softly and lovingly

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to myself, “Steve, you’re a beautiful man.” I say

Gluten-Free Pizza and Pasta

it so sincerely, that I’ve convinced myself that it is true.

Dine In or Take-Out

In truth, I may still be just a thin version of my ugly self. And, I may be over the age limit to qualify for hunk. But, I feel so much better. These days, I’ll even go outside in just a teeshirt, although my wife yells at me to come back in and put on some pants. There are just two things, now, that I need to dispose of. Do you know anyone who needs extra large overcoats or really fat friends? n

Gayton Crossing Shopping Center | 1304 Gaskins Road | 740-5050 www.chiantirichmond.com | Mon-Sat 11am-10pm, Sun 12-9pm

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BEHIND THE SCENES WITH

THE RICHMOND RAIDERS Meet Antwun Williams, Wide Receiver

Meet Kelly Allen The Raiders New Dance Team Coordinator How long did you cheer for the Redskins, and what did you enjoy about the job?

How did you get into professional football?

I cheered for the Redskins for seven

My professional career started a month after walking across

years and was a captain for four

the stage at Virginia State University. Go Trojans! I received a

years. My favorite things about

call from the great Pete Constanza and Jeff Hoffman asking me

cheering for the Redskins were: One,

if I would like to be part of their arena football team in Albany,

being around forty-two amazing,

the Albany Conquest. I gladly accepted the offer. That is where I

unique women where lifelong friend-

made my name by breaking every WR record they had.

ships were made. Two, cheering

What is the best thing about Richmond fans?

for the best fans in the NFL. Three,

The best thing about our Richmond fans is that they are very

having the best seats in the house

supportive. I have been on both the winning and losing ends,

(right on the sidelines). And four,

and no matter what, they stand behind us. They also bring

touring around the world to support,

excitement when we play. They are the ninth man on the field, and that makes us play much harder so

entertain, and spend time with our troops. The job taught

we don’t let them down.

me the value of dedication, discipline, teamwork and to

Are there any great things that have changed this year for the team?

treasure precious moments.

Going back to the Arena Bowl will require the same hard work we put in last year with a few adjust-

The Redskins will be in Richmond for training

ments so we are even better than before. We have a lot of great things this year. The biggest thing is

camp pretty soon. Are you looking forward to it?

leadership. We have more experience across the board. After losing the big game, we all have a sour

I think the move will be awesome. There are tons of loyal

taste, so that’s a drive on its own. In addition, there are a few new faces that will help fill any holes and

Redskins fans in Richmond, and they fight through hours

make us a more solid and dynamic team.

of game day traffic just to get to FedEx field. Bringing the

What is your favorite position to play, and why?

Redskins to Richmond will give local fans, who may not

I love playing the Jack linebacker position with the freedom to roam sideline to sideline, make a few

normally travel to FedEx, the opportunity to still feel a part

tackles, intercept a few passes, and rattle the QB, but my passion is playing wide receiver. There is noth-

of the Redskins Nation and take part in the training season

ing like running a perfect route, scoring the winning touchdown, doing a creative end zone dance, and

excitement.

flipping a kid the football to see their face light up.

What is your favorite thing about Richmond as a

What is your favorite thing about the indoor football game vs. outdoor football?

place to live?

My favorite thing about the indoor game is its fast pace. Anything can happen, and the game is never

I came to Richmond to be with my husband, so that would

over. As a WR there’s so much passing that it results in a basketball-like score. It gives the fans every-

be my favorite part. Aside from that, Richmond has a

thing they want to see. I once tied an AFL and AFZ record with seven TDs in one game. Being able to

profound history.

do that was amazing.

Do you have another job, or is your focus dance

What’s your favorite thing about Richmond?

team coordinator?

My favorite thing about Richmond has to be the many ways of bringing the community and families

I also work for the Federal Government as an IT Manage-

together with events. From parades to festivals, sporting events to just walking in the park, there is so

ment Analyst Consultant. Plus, I sing in a ten-piece band

much to do. I enjoy anything I can do with my six-year-old son, Antonio. You might be able to catch us

called Kaleidoscope.

watching doughnuts being made at Krispy Kreme to satisfy our sweet tooth.

What’s your favorite thing about your job for the

Last May, you scored the winning touchdown catch with only eight seconds to go

Raiders?

versus Louisiana. How did that feel?

I truly enjoy sharing my experience with the Lady Raiders

After breaking the huddle, the only thing I could think of was a catch that I made at my last homecom-

in hopes of continuing the tradition of being one of the

ing game with zero seconds on the clock, sending the game into overtime. So I thought, ‘Here we go

best dance teams. The Lady Raiders have earned the title of

again.’ I saw an opening, and Antwon Young me threw the ball. Everything felt like slow motion. After

“best dance team” in the league for three straight years.

catching the pass, there was a burst of excitement. My teammates were so thrilled. they almost beat

Anything else you’d like us to know about the

me up! And the fans gave off the biggest loudest roar of excitement ever. It felt great not to let my

Lady Raiders?

team and the fans down.

The Lady Raiders are a hard-working group of women.

Do you have any pre-game rituals?

Some are students, some have full-time jobs, and some

Well, I am considered the candy man, jokester, and prankster of the team. So before every game I

ladies juggle both. The amazing thing about the ladies is

laugh, dance, and just act like ‘ole silly me. I do eat a bag of Sour Patch Kids before every game and at

that they are still able to dedicate their time and effort to

halftime. I open up a box of Mike & Ikes, eat half the box, and give the rest to one of the kiddos in the

the Raiders and the city of Richmond whether cheering for

stands. That’s an every game thing. This year you can look for the skeleton coat. You have to make it to

our Raiders or making their presence known in the com-

pre-game to see what I mean by that! Follow Antwun on Twitter @A_will880.

munity. n

MARCH/APRIL 2013

-Presented by Union Mortgage Group-

WITH SECOND FOOD TRUCK, JOEY’S HOT DOGS IS ON A ROLL

hen Joey Mirabile, left his IT position at Capital One about six years ago and opened up a hot dog stand in a local gas station, he knew what he was doing. Joey’s Hot Dogs

(4028 Cox Road; 804 651-4108; www.joeyshotdogs.com), now in its own space in Innsbrook, has proven to be a crowd pleaser. Mirabile has not only built a successful hot dog business over the past six years, he’s done something even more valuable. “Business is really about building relationships,” he says. “We build strong relationships with the customers that visit our store, corporate clients in the catering business, schools, civic groups, and the local community.” For Joey Mirabile, it’s not just about hot dogs. He also is actively involved in supporting the arts, having teamed up with the Henrico Education Foundation, Henrico County Public Schools, the Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen, and local corporations, to create and support a county-wide cultural initiative. That includes his Spring Jazz series, which takes place, for the third season, behind his restaurant on Monday evenings. We are excited to announce the new name of our cultural initiative this year which is ARTS, which stands for “Area Residents, Teachers, and Students – committed to supporting the arts!” We are grateful for companies like Union Mortgage Group , our signature sponsor this year.

“Across the nation school budgets have forced cutbacks in funding for the arts and music. It’s important,” says Mirabile, “to support these programs.” In Henrico County we are very fortunate to have outstanding support for the music and arts. We want to keep it that way. He says funds derived from sponsorships by local corporations will pay to provide performers and expenses to run the events. “Any funds that remain,” he says, “will be donated directly to Henrico County Public Schools’ Music and Art programs.” n 40

MARCH/APRIL 2013

F L A V O R

FRESH • FAMLY • FUN

thought it fitting to roll out my inaugural column by answering two basic questions

which will “hopefully,” set the table for what’s to follow in future articles. I’ll preface my comments by stating how very much I look forward to sharing my thoughts and opinions about music with you all (or more properly stated… “with y’all,” which is the proper Southern colloquialism).

Why “From the Jukebox” as the title of my column? I can think of no single icon that is more indicative of the evolution of popular music, than the jukebox. It was through this one beautiful and

2012

magical machine that the vivid colorful palette of distinct and diverse

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American music was broadcast to the world. It was Blues, Rhythm & Blues, Jazz, Country, Pop, Soul, all in one magnificent box, and the choice was ours! For a nickel, a dime, and later a quarter, one could feel the blues of Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf in some run down rural roadhouse, or we could cry in our beer to the sounds of Hank and Webb Pierce in a smoke-filled neon honky tonk. The Bobby Soxers swooned to Glenn Miller and Sinatra on the classic AMI Model A. We Boomers bopped to Elvis, Chuck Berry, and The Everly Brothers on the grand Wurlitzer 1015 Bubble Top. We all dug Ella, Lady Day, and Satchmo on the Rock-O-La Super Rocket, and we sang along with The Clovers, The Coasters, and The Drifters on the Seeburg WallO-Matic (remember those…the jukebox that was programmable from your booth at the malt shop)? What it was, was the Soundtrack of our Lives, no matter the machine or the music…it was a part of who we became. To younger readers, the jukebox likely has little or no significance, much like the 45 RPM record, the 8-track, and the cassette, but to those of us who are a bit more seasoned, it is a reminder of a sweeter time when our lives lay undiscovered before us. For long time Richmond folks, the title of my column is also a not so subtle reference to a song recorded by a local band many years ago…something about “If I Didn’t Have A Dime (To Play the Jukebox).”

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www.richmondnavigator.com

So now I’ve answered the burning question of “Why.” Next time it’s “Who” and what makes him think he’s qualified to talk about music? n

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(includes Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegar & Our Gourmet Olive Oils: White or Black Truffle and Roasted French Walnut)

10138 W. Broad Street | (804) 270-6000 | See Ad on Page 68

200 Towne Center W. Blvd., Ste. 607 | (804) 360-7929 Off Rt. 288 Behind Ethan Allen | See Ad on Page 25

For more savings, print more NaviDeals from www.RichmondNavigator.com. 42

MARCH/APRIL 2013

F L A V O R

Karaoke

Keagan’s Irish Pub 2251 Old Brick Road, Suite 100 360-9240 keagans.com Tuesdays from 9pm-1:30am Quaker Steak & Lube 8000 W. Broad Street 217-WING quakersteakandlube.com Fridays from 8pm-close Breakers Sports Grille 9127 W. Broad Street 270-1461 Tuesdays and Wednesdays 9pm-1am Bailey’s 7502 W. Broad Street 755-6800 foxandhound.com Tuesdays from 9pm-12:30am Sine Irish Pub & Restaurant 1327 E. Cary Street 649-7767 sineirishpub.com Wednesdays from 9pm-1am Cous Cous 900 W. Franklin Street 358-0868 couscous900.com Wednesdays at 11:30pm-close

www.richmondnavigator.com

TOOLS FOR SELLING YOUR HOME TODAY Buyers have two major tools when

finding a home – Realtors and the In-

ternet. The National Association of Realtors 2012 Profile of Home Buyers and

Sellers shows that 90% of all home buyers use the Internet in their search and 87% use a Realtor.

If you are looking to sell, find a Re-

altor who understands Internet Marketing. This strategy requires pictures – lots

of pictures. It also requires some basic steps by both the Realtor and the home owner.

Before taking pictures a home must

be “market-ready.” Clean the home thoroughly including baseboards and

bathrooms. Reduce clutter, stage rooms,

paint, landscape, and replace worn

flooring. I offer my clients three to four

hours of professional staging and send my landscaper to freshen up the mulch

and power wash walkways and entrance areas.

I use a professional to photograph

the home. It’s worth the extra money! Our Multiple Listing System allows Realtors to upload up to 24 pictures and

include Virtual tours. Information from

MLS is shared with over 1,700 websites. A Realtor with an enhanced account on Realtor.com is able to display a greater number of photos and virtual tours.

A picture really is worth a thousand

words when it comes to selling a home.

For more information on selling – or

buying a home – visit my real estate blog at www.garyduda.wordpress.com.

GARY DUDA

Broker, GRI, ePro, ABR, CRS, CDPE

804-938-5777 11551-D Nuckols Rd. garyduda@remax.net www.dudahomes.com

MARCH/APRIL 2013

R I V E R

Seedowntown

C I T Y

more events ARTS & ATTRACTIONS Richmond Raiders 2013 Season 3/16 The action starts on March 16 when the Raiders will take on the Alabama Hammers. With only six regular season home games, make sure to check out their schedule online. richmondraidersprofootball.com

Ukrop's Monument Avenue 10k 4/13 Named one of the country's best races by USA Today, Richmond's biggest block party is the place to be! With over 40,000 participants, you're bound to be entertained—whether by costumed runners, party stops, live music, a race for the kiddies, or the post-race party. sportbackers.com

Les Misérables 3/26– 31 Cameron Mackintosh presents a brand new 25th anniversary production of the legendary musical with glorious new staging and dazzlingly re-imagined scenery. This new production has been acclaimed by critics, fans, and new audiences, and is breaking box office records where ever it goes. Landmark Theater. Landmarktheater.net

The Music Man 4/12– 5/19 This award-winning, critically acclaimed Broadway classic is an all-American institution, with its quirky characters, charming situations, one-of-a-kind, nostalgic score of rousing marches, barbershop quartets, and sentimental ballads. The Music Man is family entertainment at its best. Sara Belle and Neil November Theatre. Va-rep.org

Chalk Up the Town 4/21 From noon to 5 p.m., venture to the unique shopping and dining district of Carytown where the family can celebrate the city through chalk. Thousands come out to decorate the sidewalks with beautiful art. Just show up, pick up your free chalk, and begin your creation! carytownrva.org

MUSIC Lotus 3/15 Excision 4/5 They Might Be Giants 4/7 The National. thenationalva.com

Amanda McBroom 4/11–14 Amanda McBroom has been called "...the greatest cabaret performer of her generation." Don't miss the opportunity to see a musical legend! Rhythm Hall. richmondcenterstage.com

THEATRE Red 4/26–6/16 A searing portrait of an artist's ambition and vulnerability, Red is a moving and compelling account of Mark Rothko and his young assistant, Ken.This electrifying play exposes human need and desire like no other, and was winner of six Tony Awards. Theatre Gym at Virginia Rep Center. Va-rep.org

www.richmondnavigator.com

Karaoke

Baja Bean 1520 W. Main Street Basement

Autumn Soybean Field 18"x24"

257-5445 bajabean.com Fridays 10pm-2am Bandito’s Burrito Lounge 2905 Patterson Avenue 354-9999 banditosburritolounge.com Wednesdays 10pm-2am Penny Lane Pub 421 E. Franklin 780-1682 pennylanepub.com Mondays from 9pm-2am Sticky Rice 2232 W. Main Street 358-7870 stickyricefan.com

Bailey’s 11581 Robius Road, Suite 100 560-4600 foxandhound.com Wednesdays at 9pm starting in April Tapz Bar and Grill 200 N. Otterdale Lane 378-7838 king-pin-lanes.com Friday-Saturday 9pm-close

MARCH/APRIL 2013

R I V E R

C I T Y

Sunday, March 17th Kick off a week of dance-related film screenings at the

BY JENNIFER NORVELL SAUNDERS

When Brett Bonda, Managing Director of the Richmond Ballet, talks about

recently opened Criterion Cinemas at Movieland. Monday, March 18th Enjoy a special evening at the fabulous Can Can Brasserie featuring Richmond Ballet dancers. C Street and other restaurants will celebrate with Richmond Ballet throughout the week. Tuesday, March 19th Backstage at the Ballet invites the public to

the organization’s many accomplishments, he reels them off faster than a

experience what it’s like behind-the-scenes at the Ballet building for a

ballerina’s costume change. In fact, the list grows so quickly, it’s a little hard to

wonderful opportunity to see dancers and The School of Richmond Ballet

keep up. With such impressive accolades, you’d think more people would be aware of the cultural gem that is our city’s professional dance company. But,

students in their classes. Wednesday, March 20th Opens an exhibition featuring original works

according to Bonda, there are still plenty of us who don’t know, and that lack

of art depicting Richmond Ballet company dancers, created by five

of awareness is a big reason for the Richmond Ballet’s upcoming Leap Week.

acclaimed local artists: Loryn Brazier, Beth Marchant, Nancy Mauck, David

During the week of March 17th, the entire Richmond region will become

the setting for Leap Week, which will celebrate the many accomplishments of Richmond Ballet, the State Ballet of Virginia. “Over the years, we’ve taken a big leap with regard to dance and we want to celebrate with the Richmond

Tanner, and Tom Wise. Fifty percent of the proceeds from the sale of the artwork will benefit Richmond Ballet. The evening will include a cocktail reception with the artists and a rehearsal viewing. RSVP required. Thursday, March 21st “Ballet in the ‘Burbs” Richmond Ballet will host

community what we’ve done,” says Bonda. “Richmond Ballet has performed

events in areas throughout the Richmond Metropolitan Area featuring

numerous times in New York City and, recently, in London (two of the dance

appearances by Richmond Ballet Company Dancers and performances by

capitals of the world), an upcoming show at the Kennedy Center in June, and the development of our Minds In Motion program for 4th graders to include

our Minds In Motion Team XXL. Friday, March 22nd Richmond Ballet and The Royal Ballet School will

Richmond, Charlottesville, Martinsville, as well as a similar program in Israel.

continue their collaboration with a performance in the Studio Theatre

The School of Richmond Ballet is bursting at the seams and we continue to

featuring The Royal Ballet School Graduate Class (visiting from London)

thrive in our current location and as a part of Center Stage and the Arts and

and members of Richmond Ballet II, the touring company, followed

Cultural District downtown.”

by a reception with dancers and artistic staff catered by the FeedMore

Leap Week will also showcase how accessible performances can be. “We

Community Kitchen.

want people to know they don’t have to be well-versed in ballet in order

Saturday, March 23rd Master Classes will be held with teachers from

to enjoy it, and that we’re more than just The Nutcracker,” says Bonda. “In

the Royal Ballet School. Dance schools from around the area will be

addition to larger performances, the Ballet performs in the evenings during

encouraged to participate.

the week both contemporary and more traditional works. No suit or tux required!” Leap Week also honors the corporate and community philanthropy that

Saturday, March 23rd A unique celebration of Richmond Ballet begins with cocktails at Page Bond Gallery followed by a seated dinner at Try-me, a unique, artistic Richmond space. The event will be catered

has made the Ballet’s success possible. “Forty years ago, Altria, which was then

by an outstanding Washington, D.C.-based firm known for exceptional

Philip Morris, gave its first gift to the world of dance and Richmond Ballet was

creativity, preparation, food, and service. Dinner will feature wines

its fortunate recipient,” notes Stoner Winslett, Artistic Director of the Ballet.

provided by Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, an Altria company. There will be a

“This year, 40 years later, the Ballet has leapt into the global spotlight, bringing

raffle drawing for a 2013 Audi Q5 and a live auction of a limited number of

audiences to their feet in the Linbury Studio Theatre at London’s Royal Opera

exclusive packages.

House. Leap Week is meant to celebrate the decades of achievement of

Sunday, March 24th Marks the final performance of the Royal Ballet School

Richmond Ballet and to show Greater Richmond how their city’s Ballet has

Graduate Class (visiting from London) and members of Richmond Ballet II

‘gone global.’”

in the Studio Theatre.

Leap Week, co-chaired by Selina Rainey and Pamela Reynolds, will include

Throughout the week, food will be collected for the FeedMore Central

a number of special events to be held throughout Greater Richmond, from the

Virginia Food Bank at Movieland at Boulevard Square and Richmond Ballet

movies to restaurants in the suburbs and on the stage:

building.

www.richmondnavigator.com

By Shonda Morisette

The Killing Daylights

ave you ever been talking about a famous band that you love and someone inevitably tells you

Browning echoes that sentiment from a singer’s point of view,

an enviable story about how they saw the group

“We want people to feel what we’re feeling when we sing because

at a small, intimate venue before they hit it big?

Beau Powell writes such amazing lyrics. He writes in such a way that

Wouldn’t it be cool to be able to relate an experience like that one

you’ve had the same experiences, but he’s kind of telling you about

day? The odds may be very much in your favor if you decide to check

them. We want people to relate to our music. That’s what we want

out “The Killing Daylights” here in Richmond, which is just what I did

from our audience.” Judging from the room full of people who were

on a recent Friday night.

dancing, cheering, singing and even pulling out their phones to add

The Fantoberfest Battle of the Bands winners played a powerful show at The Republic with a set list diverse enough to please anyone in the packed out crowd while maintaining a cohesive, unique sound.

them to their Instagram feed or Facebook account, their wish was granted. To continue bringing their music to as many people as possible,

The sassy, soulful lead singer, Megan Lynn Browning, combines forces

the band is playing as many venues as possible and is currently in the

with the rich harmonies and occasional lead singing of husband

studio recording their album. While anxious to release it, they aren’t

and wife rocker duo, Beau Powell and Chelsea Kerwath, who are the

rushing the process. As Powell states, they want “all killer and no filler.”

rhythm guitar and bass players respectively. Add to that the explosive

If you would like to listen some of their songs now, check them out at

style of drummer Bubba Farmer (also owner of Darth Fader studios)

thekillingdaylights.com. You can even download some of their tunes

and the edgy, innovative leads of guitarist Cory Dunn, and you have

for free.

the makings of a musical experience you won’t soon forget.

listen to a million times? That’s what we aim for.”

If you’re wondering where to hear them live, dominating covers

One of the most appealing qualities of this band is that they

ranging anywhere from Fleetwood Mac to Adele or Cee Lo Green to

weave amazing original music in with the incredible covers that

The Killers, plus so much more, you can see them at The Republic in

they play. Powell, assisted by Kerwath on melodies, writes most of

Richmond, Sharky’s Bar in Glen Allen, or Babes of Carytown in March

the band’s songs. They take this very seriously and will only play an

and April. And who knows? Maybe one day you’ll overhear someone

original song if it meets their strict standards. As Kerwath puts it, “We

bragging that they were able to score sold out tickets to an arena

put so much time, effort, and consideration into every original we

show played by The Killing Daylights. You can then wryly smile and

write. We think to ourselves, is this something that I would want to

tell a little story of how you knew the band “back when.” n MARCH/APRIL 2013

R I V E R

Join us every Sunday for Brunch. It all starts at 11am with a great brunch menu & Bloody Mary, Mimosa & Sangria Bar.

C I T Y

Restaurant & Bar Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 11:30am - 11:00pm Fri.-Sat. 11:30am - Midnight Sun. 11:00am - 10:00pm

BlueGrass Music ay Every Sund Night

The area’s Award Winning Bar and Restaurant with great beer, great food, and captivating views of Richmond

Offering Appetizers ~ Snacks ~ Burgers ~ Sandwiches ~ Dinner Entrees

321 West 7th Street Richmond, VA (804) 232-3446 www.legendbrewing.com

What's in a Name?

Close to all hotels in The River District & only a short drive from Broad St., Short Pump, Midlothian or the Airport

Beau Powell explained that they were out in the snow and the reflection of the sunlight was blinding. The term “beat the living daylights” of somebody just came to mind, but it needed a tweak. Dying Daylights was too depressing so living, dying, killing was the natural progression of it. It sounded good, looked good, and most importantly, nobody had it.

Out and About: Friday, April 5 @ 10:00pm The Republic in Richmond Wednesday, April 17 @ 9:30pm Sharky's Bar in Glen Allen Sunday, May 19 The Furry Friends Jubilee You can also book them for private parties at thekillingdaylights.com

www.richmondnavigator.com

Swapping Hats Exiting the Data Center, Entering the Studio By Katelyn Wyzynski.

ocal artist George Heath is looking

now back to painting almost full-time. When asked about his art-

forward to retirement. However,

work, he leans toward the shy side, saying “I like for my art to speak

he’ll spend his days back at a differ-

for itself.” And it does. His paintings (representations of photos that

ent place of work... in the studio. George’s love of art started as a toddler doodling on the walls of his parents’

roads. George loves acrylic, due to the forgiveness of the medium. “You

basement and grew as he painted his way

can work over the whole canvas without paying a price,” he says with

through high school, junior college and

a smile. “Watercolor requires expensive planning,” he adds, “and oils

VCU’s Art Foundation Program. George

only allow for minor edits.” He’s made his mark with acrylics though.

was not familiar with expressionism. “Back

His pieces have won several awards over the last couple of years.

then, I couldn’t really wrap my head around

With representational work in the bag and more studio time on

it,” he says. So, he did a 180 and became an operating engineer at a

the horizon, George is expanding his repertoire to large abstract can-

bank. Throughout his successful career, he occasionally picked up his

vases. “Abstract is such a different form of painting,” he says. “It’s re-

paintbrush, but it was not until recent years that his passion and his

freshing. You start something and don’t know how it’s going to end.

skill flared up again.

That journey interests me.”

After randomly taking a look around the Crossroads Arts Center,

George takes himself ), fly off the shelf of his rented space at Cross-

To see the latest of George’s portfolio, visit the Crossroads Arts

George realized he missed the stare of a blank canvas. He took classes

Center. For a little preview, visit www.crossroadsartcenter.com/art-

under the tutelage of in-house artist Christophora Robeers, and is

ists/heath.html. n MARCH/APRIL 2013

R I V E R

Feat ured Work

C I T Y

(Clockwise from left)

Tu scan Valley, 12"x 9" Lakeside Alley, 12"x 9" Back yard Bar n, 20"x 20" Nor ther n Virg inia Far mland, 20"x 16" www.richmondnavigator.com

R I V E R

C I T Y

CITYdining

dining happenings Viceroy I guess you could say Sean McClain and David, two Museum District restaurateurs, have teamed up to open a third restaurant in the neighborhood. McClain, who owns Bandito’s Burrito Lounge, at 2905 Patterson, and Bender whose Caliente Restaurant at 2922 Park Avenue, recently took over the space that had previously been occupied by Café Diem. Their joint venture, Viceroy (located at 600 North Sheppard St.) is, according to McClain, going to be a quiet, friendly neighborhood restaurant that’s especially targeting a somewhat more mature clientele. McClain says that the restaurant should be open by early spring. He and Bender have pretty much done a complete overhaul on the building.

Dutch and Co. Church Hill is becoming quite the spot for exciting dining options these days. Dutch and Co. (www.dutchandcompany.com) has recently opened at the corner of Marshall and 27th. It’s a cozy, little place, located in what had been a

Lunch and Dinner On the Go

Laundromat. The focus, here, is on the food, with all three partners (Michelle Peake, Caleb

ichmond, there’s a new place to pick up lunch on the go. Chefs

Shriver, and Phillip Perrow) bringing impressive

Lauren Jurk from California and Greg Comstock, a Richmond native,

culinary resumes into the operation.

have been busily working–wearing all hats from dishwasher to server to food prepper– to open a take-out lunch counter called The

Naked Onion (2118 W. Cary Street). Both chefs were trained in Las Vegas, where they met while earning culinary degrees at Le Cordon Bleu. After working under master chefs in Vegas and expanding their knowledge of cuisines from Italian to Latin to Asian, Jurk and Comstock were inspired to brainstorm a seasonal and ever-changing lunch menu that will feature five to six sandwiches and three to four soups daily. Expect more than your average cold cut sandwich. The pair is dreaming up internationally inspired creations from Cubans to Pork Bánh mì, a Vietnamese

Johnson's Southern Comfort DeAndre Johnson and his wife Stephanie have just completed some extensive renovations on a new restaurant in Church Hill (2306 Jefferson Avenue). Johnson’s Southern Comfort is serving up true soul/comfort food, along with some mellow jazz music. Sounds like that would make a great combination.

specialty, all served on locally baked breads. Add to that Skewtopia–an up-and-coming food truck that will be setting up shop at Richmond’s outdoor events and festivals in the evenings. As the name suggests (skewers + utopia = skewtopia), Jurk and Comstock are breaking down intricate dishes to make versions that can be served on a stick. Think of Jambalaya skewers with shrimp, chicken, and Andouille, or a pork belly, fennel and apple skewer. Jurk and Comstock are bringing their innovative ideas and fresh food to

Richmond, and we couldn’t be more excited to help the duo as they break into the

The Naked Onion's pork belly in the works

Richmond dining scene!

for their take on a Bánh mì

MARCH/APRIL 2013

D E S T I N A T I O N

The Spa Who Loved Me Body, Mind & Spirit Extravagances By Diana LeGere

www.richmondnavigator.com

oday, women and men alike are captivated by the allure of luxury destination spas. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick, yet satisfying, lunch-hour pampering session; a full afternoon of relaxation; or a getaway that lasts a week—we’ve rounded up spa destinations that will pique your senses. Check out these tantalizing escapes and see if one might be your passport to self-indulgence. Go ahead. You deserve it.

The Lodge at Woodloch is an award-winning destination in the Pocano Mountains in Pennsylvania. (Pictured previous page and above)

Glow Med Spa Richmond, VA

How Long of a Trip? As Long as You'd Like The buzz straight from the Glow Med team is that you’ll get spectacular service at “a price everyone can afford.” Glow Med offers an array of skin care regimens and products (including Botox and Juvederm), hair removal, and massages

How Far Away? In Your Backyard! What’s HOT? The Body Contouring Massage is a best-kept secret that burns fat to reveal a thinner you. For more beautiful skin, try a Skin Rehydration Massage with Glow Elixirs. Gain the appearance of a face-lift with an Oxygen Glow Facial, which targets tone, elasticity, and volume, resulting in a

so affordable that you can visit

youthful glow. Sun lovers can keep a tan

often. For quick transformations, try

all winter long with Fake Bake, a flawless

the lunchtime treatments such as the

airbrush tan.

micro peel–a three-step exfoliation process with no downtime. Regular

Distinction/Perks:

monthly specials are posted online.

It’s a “holistic spa experience,” says Shia Noth, Owner, Master Esthetician, and

201 Towne Center West Blvd. Suite 705, (804) 360-1144 5109 Lakeside Avenue (804) 262-0330 www.glowmedspa.net

Laser Technician. Guests will delight in the advanced, medical, skin-changing facials and laser services, performed by master estheticians, without big-ticket price tags. Experience the ultimate in relaxation as you sip a glass of wine with your treatment.

MARCH/APRIL 2013

D E S T I N A T I O N

Breathe Easy Salt Spa Midlothian, Virginia

How Long of a Trip? As Long as You'd Like Richmond’s very first salt therapy respiratory facility will be opening soon. This one-of-a-kind salt spa (Halotherapy, a European phenomenon), offers a stress-free, relaxing, “cave-like” escape for those who seek relief from asthma, sinusitis, allergies, cystic fibrosis, and

How Far Away? In Your Backyard! What’s HOT? Treatment rooms are completely covered with natural Himalayan rock salt. Relax in zero gravity chairs. A children’s room includes beach toys, an art center, and a 220-gallon salt-water aquarium.

Distinction/Perks: The only exclusive salt therapy spa in Vir-

other respiratory illnesses. Relax to

ginia. Allow the well known antibacterial and

soothing music as you breathe in

anti-inflammatory benefits of salt work on

micron-size salt particles.

your respiratory system. Guests can purchase 3-month or 12-month memberships at a discounted rate.

15812 WC Main Street, Midlothian 804-797-6167 www.breatheeasysaltspa.com

The Homestead Spa Hot Springs, VA

How Long of a Trip?

How Far Away?

Day or Quick Trip

Under 170 Miles from Richmond

You’ll love this elegantly appointed 200-year-old historic resort nestled in the Alleghany Mountains of Hot Springs, Virginia. Founded in 1766, it’s one of America’s oldest resorts, and the nearby Jefferson Pools have catered to legendary guests including Thomas Jeffer-

What’s HOT? Spring of 2013 will bring the new, state-ofthe art, expansive Canyon Ranch SpaClub to The Homestead. Aquavana, one of the new features, is an exclusive European-inspired aqua thermal oasis with experiential rains, herbal laconium, a chill room, and a crystal steam room based on the ancient concept of “healing by water.” Guests of Allegheny

son. This summer, The Homestead

Springs can enjoy poolside bar and food

will unveil Mountain Rush with

service from the Allegheny Springs Grille.

two 100-foot water slides and a 400-foot lazy river. At the Jefferson

Distinction/Perks:

Springs spa garden, adults can

Sense the charm and grandeur of this estate

enjoy a tranquil spa garden, com-

while soaking up the mineral-rich hot springs

plete with hot springs, a geothermal mineral bath, river reflexology bed, a co-ed Finnish sauna, a spring-fed whirlpool, and private cabanas.

waters, 98 to 104 degrees, drawn from surrounding mountains. The whole family (ages 4 and up) can enjoy fun spa services such as the Pink Bubbles Pedicure.

1766 Homestead Drive, Hot Springs, VA 800-838-1766 www.thehomestead.com

www.richmondnavigator.com

D E S T I N A T I O N

The Lodge at Woodloch Hawley, PA

How Long of a Trip?

How Far Away?

Weekend or More!

Under 375 Miles from Richmond

This award-winning destination spa, nestled in a lake setting in the Pocono Mountains, provides the perfect retreat for a getaway. Ranked as the Fourth Destination Spa in the World in 2012 by Travel and Leisure, this is a first-class facility offering day spa packages and “a la carte.” Unlike traditional

Take a stroll to the Aqua Garden and relax in the co-ed soaking pools with heated Hydro massage WaterWalls, or take a dip in the outdoor Horizon Edge whirlpool. For a memorable couples encounter, Suite Surrender combines tingling sensations of exfoliation, bath, and full-body aromatherapy massage.

spas, this resort combines relax-

Distinction/Perks:

ing treatments with fun indoor and

The Lodge is an all-inclusive destination spa

outdoor activities to infuse harmony

resort with accommodations, including three

between spiritual and therapeutic

gourmet meals daily. Men can enjoy beer in-

wellness. Soaring walls of windows

spired treatments, such as the Royal Revival–a

invite the outdoors into the spa atmosphere. A co-ed whisper lounge features a warm fireplace and outdoor porch with rocking chairs.

Mii Amo Sedona, Arizona

What’s HOT?

body exfoliation with hops, barley, and honey, followed by a beer-bath soak.

109 River Birch Lane, Hawley, PA 866-953-8500 www.thelodgeatwoodloch.com

How Long of a Trip?

How Far Away?

Make it a Week!

Fly Away Vacation!

Off the beaten track visit breathtaking Boynton Canyon where you’ll discover a colossal, 70-acre resort, which is home to the world-class destination spa, Mii Amo. Deep within the canyon, inside the tranquil 24,000 sq. ft., two-story building, a magical spa experience

What’s HOT? The Spirit of the New Moon is a blend of intention rituals and foot bath, body and scalp massages backdropped by the new moon, which according to the folks at Mii Amo, “the time of the new moon is the ideal time to manifest one’s desires”. Indulge in a Watsu treatment to enjoy the mastery of body work done in a warm, outdoor therapeutic

awaits you. Choose from a plethora

pool. Relax during a traditional massage or

of luxurious services such as skin

hot stones massage in one of the outdoor

care (a dozen facials including

wickiups.

calming, clarifying, hydrating and lymphatic), water treatments, health and wellness consultations, body treatments, massages, and couples and mother-to-be services! 525 Boynton Canyon Road, Sedona, AZ. (928) 203-8500 www.miiamo.com

Distinction/Perks: A very restorative environment designed to capture the healing traditions of the Native Americans, the spectacular backdrop of gorgeous red rock allows for biking and hiking in the Secret Mountain Wilderness and Coconino National Forest. Mii Amo offers three, four and seven-night Journeys that include accommodations, two daily spa treatments, three meals, fitness classes and lectures.

MARCH/APRIL 2013

Diabetics: Special Gum Care?

f you suffer from diabetes, you already know the importance of seeing your family doctor and your eye doctor regularly to monitor your condition. But did

you know that, as a diabetic, you also may be at higher risk for periodontal disease. Diabetics tend to get more severe cases of gum disease, and at younger ages. The reason for this is that high glucose levels in your mouth make it a great place for harmful bacteria to hang out. Bacteria love sugar! And the presence of bacteria is a major cause of periodontal problems.

Addi-

tionally, diabetes thickens the walls of your blood vessels, which can keep your gums from getting the oxygen and nourishment they need. Thicker walls also slow down waste removal, which make it harder for your gums to resist infection and disease. What can you do to minimize the risk of periodontal disease? First, make sure you floss and brush enthusiastically. Controlling your blood sugar level is important, too. Frequent visits to your dental professional, make it easier for us to spot early signs of gum disease. We can also thoroughly clean your teeth to help get rid of bacteria and plaque buildup. We recommend four cleanings a year. Your dentist can be a valuable partner in your overall health care program to reduce the impact of diabetes. For more information please contact us:. n Dr. Baxter Perkinson & Associates is a Group Practice of over forty Doctors Specializing in Orthodontics, Cosmetic and General Dentistry, Dental Implants, Prosthodontics, Periodontics, and Sedation Dentistry. With eleven convenient locations in the Richmond Metro Area, we can assist you in creating your youthful smile. For a location near you, visit VAdentist.com. www.richmondnavigator.com

Ask the Experts

Prompt • Courteous • Professional

I am taking estimates to replace my gas boiler. The salesmen insist on “running a load” before giving me a price. What is a load and why do I need to have one done?

Load is a term used for the amount of heating or cooling your home needs. Thirty years ago oil and gas were cheaper and people were less concerned with efficiency. The average boiler was only 50-60% efficient and 2-3 times too big. Older units are still extremely inefficient; however, the heating systems manufactured today are 80-95% efficient. No matter how efficient the unit, if it is sized incorrectly for your home, it still uses more fuel than needed. That is why salesmen run load calculations. Actually, you should welcome this. Finding out that your heating system is only 50% efficient and three times the size it should be will allow you to realize big savings in the amount you spend each year to heat your home.

288-1951

YouCanTrustGus.com Gundlach Plumbing & Heating is a Woman Owned Business

MARCH/APRIL 2013

P E O P L E & P L A C E S

A D AY I N T H E

H I L L S By Steve Cook

Forest Hill Park offers a variety of history, fun, exercise and more for every season. In May, the South of the James Market will move back to the park in full force.

Photos Courtesy of Richmond Parks, Recreation & Community Facilities

kay, let’s face it. One day in the Hills won’t really

Richmond. People shop, reconnect with old friends and neighbors, and

give you the time you need to fully explore and

entertain out-of-town guests, here,” she tells me.

enjoy all that Forest Hill Park and its nearby

If you go between December and April, you’re going to find a

neighborhoods have to offer, but it will allow

condensed version of the market, which takes place every Saturday

you to become acquainted with the rather quaint, unique shops

morning from 10 until noon on the playground at the Patrick Henry

and independent, often family-owned restaurants that are sprinkled

School of Science and Arts, just a block from the park.

through this largely residential part of the city. You can always go

Regardless of the season, there’s always something to do in the

back and spend all the time you wish. You’ll be more than welcomed

park. The lake offers fishing (catch and release only) and there are also

wherever you go.

great trails for hiking and biking. You’ll also find picnic shelters, a tennis

For our journey, there is no better place to start than the park. Let’s

court, plus a playground, and on those rare occasions when we get

make it a Saturday morning so we can take in what may be the Metro

more than a dusting of snow, youngsters from all parts of the Metro

area’s best farmers market. The market, which runs from 8 am until

area will be heading for the hills with their sleds in tow.

noon, is produced and sponsored by GrowRVA (www.growrva.com),

You may want to stay and play all day, but let’s move along. There’s

an organization created to connect local farms, local food, and local

a lot I want to show you. One of the first spots we come to is ideal in

arts with Richmond communities.

its proximity to Forest Hill Park, as well as the James River Park system,

Karen Atkinson, founder and owner of the organization says

with the many bicycle trails. It’s Coqui Cyclery (3416 Semmes Avenue/

that three to four thousand shoppers visit the market each week.

www.coquicyclery.com). Here, you’ll find one of the neighborhood’s

In addition to about 100 farmer/producer vendors, the market also

newest and most ardent cycling enthusiasts, Clint Kronenberger. Clint

features music, food carts, and cooking demonstrations. “It has

ran a bike shop in Naples, Florida for 30 years before making South

become a weekly gathering place for the neighborhood, and all of

Richmond his home.

www.richmondnavigator.com

wo customers, Mark, who has come in from Chester-

Moving on down the road, I approach Westover Hills Boulevard.

field, and Todd, a triathlete from the West End, are wait-

Here, I come to three more dining spots. The first of the three is

ing as Clint services their bikes. I asked them both why

O’Toole’s Restaurant & Pub (4800 Forest Hill Avenue; www.otooles-

they came all the way into Forest Hills, since there are

restaurant.com). John O’Toole has practically grown up in this place.

other bike shops they would have passed along the way. Todd points

His father started the business back in 1966. John tells me that in

to Clint. “Because of this man,” he says. Mark agrees.

the last ten years, the neighborhood is better than ever and with lots

If the aroma of fresh coffee is as enticing to you as it is to me, you may already be out the door and across the street to Crossroads Cof-

Just across the street is a restaurant I’ve been anxious to check

fee and Ice Cream (3600 Forest Hill Avenue). This morning, Olivia Don-

out. When I’ve asked the locals to name their favorite neighborhood

nelly, co-owner with Will Herring, is holding down the fort. She says

restaurants, almost everyone includes Maldini’s Ristorante Italiano

that since they opened ten years ago, the place has evolved into much

(4811 Forest Hill Avenue; www.maldinisristoranteitaliano.com). I speak

more than just coffee and ice cream. The chalkboard menu reveals a

with Marcello Armetta, one of the partners in the business. He tells me

host of breakfast and lunch/dinner items, including bagels, sandwich-

that while Maldini’s has only been around for about seven years, his

es and wraps. You can even enjoy a bottle from a decent selection of

partner, Mario Lo Presti, has been operating restaurants (Mary Angela’s

craft beer or a glass of wine.

Pizza and Piccolas, to name a couple) in the Richmond area for nearly

As a coffee house, it’s perfect.. . .cozy, intimate, and fun. They even

40 years. Marcello tells me that one of the secrets to the success of

offer their guests, whom Olivia describes as an “eclectic cast of charac-

Maldini’s is, “We only use fresh, high quality ingredients, and so much

ters,” live entertainment and karaoke several nights a week.

of what we serve is homemade, like our pizza crust and our ravioli.”

As you travel through the neighborhoods, you’ll notice a diverse

Just around the corner is one of the city’s newest eateries, which

array of house styles and sizes. There’s really something for just about

has garnered rave reviews for its true Southern-style fried chicken.

anyone here. Earlier, I had spoken with Rich Meagher, the co-President

Sheila Wilkins and Todd Brady are the partners at Dixie Chicken (1203

of the Westover Hills Neighborhood Association. Rich, with his wife

Westover Hills Boulevard; www.thedixiechicken.com). It’s a tiny build-

and two children, relocated from New York, so that he could take a

ing offering take out only, but oh what fantastic fare is served there,

position as assistant professor in the Political Science Department at

including a variety of delicious down home comfort foods to along

Randolph Macon College, in Ashland. Why did he choose Westover

with the chicken.

Hills, which is about a 20-minute drive to his work? He lists several rea-

Our next stop is just a couple blocks west of Westover Hills Boul-

sons. “Houses are a bargain here,” he tells me. “I also like the sidewalks.

evard on Forest Hill. If you’re a locavore, you do not want to miss out

It brings the neighbors together.”

on this. Do you remember the old Vintage Antique store at 5047 Forest

Rich says the area is a great place to raise kids.“We bike over to the

Hill Avenue? Well a couple of specialty shops that occupied space in

River. . .The Farmers’ Market is a terrific place to go on Saturday morn-

the back of the building have renovated a portion of the antique shop

ings.” Would he consider moving closer to work? Rich says definitely

(in the front) and have made this the place to go for local delicacies.

not. “We love it here. We’re lifers in the neighborhood.”

growth in the area, business is better than ever, as well.

One of those two shops is Chocolates by Kelly (www.chocolates

MARCH/APRIL 2013

P E O P L E & P L A C E S

Clockwise from left: Max’s Positive Vibe Café, Once Upon a Vine’s wide selection of craft beers and wines, Dixie Chicken’s Fried Chicken Platter, One of Maldini’s

Taza Coffee ‘n Creme shows their pride in

seafood dishes, O’Toole’s relaxing bar, Flying

Richmond by offering Blanchard’s roasted

Pig’s BBQ plate.

coffee and locally made bagels and ice cream.

bykelly.com). Chocolate is in Kelly Walker’s genes, so to speak. Her great

specializing in Victorian and Mid Century Modern pieces, you’re apt to

grandmother made candy for Wanamaker’s, in Philadelphia. And her

find most anything from thimbles to an old telephone booth. Be sure

great, great, great uncle worked for the Wunderlee Candy Company,

to look for Baby the Cat. He’s a fixture around the place.

which (just to give a sense of history), was the first candy maker to

We have time for one more stop and it’s fitting, since we began

produce candy corn, back in the 1880s. Kelly describes her candy as

our trip in the park, that we finish up in Paradise. . .the Paradise Diner

European-style, with intense flavors.

(320-1611), that is. It’s at the very end of the sidewalk in the shopping

She shares space with Ben Spencer’s Taza Coffee ‘n Creme (www.

center. The diner has been around for about seven years, but it’s just

tazacnc.com). Virtually everything offered at Taza, from the coffee

recently been taken over by Andrea Edwards. Andrea says she is going

(Blanchard’s) and teas (Carytown Tea) to the bagels (Cupertino’s) and

to continue to serve the same classic diner fare (in a classic diner

ice cream (La Michoacana, on Midlothian Turnpike) is produced locally.

setting, including high-top communal dining, as well as booths), but

Word is that other local purveyors will also be offering their wares

with one change. She says she’s going to lower some of the prices.

in this newly expanded space, and that live, local entertainers will be appearing onstage.

Now, that does sound like Paradise. Well, that’s our stroll through the Hills. Now, it’s your turn to make

For our final stops, we head about three miles west, on Forest Hill

your own discoveries. We just scratched the surface. But, we have a

Avenue (at Hathaway Road) to the Stratford Hills Shopping Center.

feeling that once you explore for yourselves, you’ll be joining countless

You probably know the story of how Garth Larcen of Max’s Positive

others in regularly heading for the Hills. n

Vibe Café (www.positivevibecafe.com) started the restaurant in order to provide a business in which those with disabilities could find employment and be trained. If that’s all you know about the place, there’s a lot more to learn. This is a great restaurant. And a lot of the city’s most talented entertainers stop in to perform on regular occasion. If you’re a wine or beer enthusiast (or both) you’ll want to visit Once Upon a Vine – South. Brothers, Ben and Tomy Harris operate this fantastic shop, featuring over 800 wine labels and more than 600 varieties of beer. And, if the idea of FREE beer, wine, and gourmet delicacies entices you, you’ll want to plan a return visit on Fridays from 5 ‘til 8 pm. That’s when they hold their free tastings. Ben says that on Friday evenings this is the place to be if you’re a local. Even if you’re not, just go. We won’t tell. Just a few doors down, is another cool place, Forest Hill Antiques (www.foresthillantiques.com). Here, you’ll find more than 30 dealers,

www.richmondnavigator.com

Chocolates by Kelly owner Kelly Walker shows her wonderful treats, which she describes as having European-style flavors.

Where are the Visual Arts? A

G U I D E

T O

H A N O V E R ’ S

B y

A n n

A R T

G A L L E R I E S

C o m f o r t

The arts are active and growing in Hanover County! There are now five art galleries in the county. With the many styles of visual arts from photographs to oils to sculptures on display in March and April, there is something for everyone. Check out the visual arts in Hanover by visiting the galleries listed below.

Gallery Flux (307B England Street, Ashland, www.galleryflux.

ArtStudio@301 (13297 Hanover Courthouse Road– Route 301) is

com) located in Ashland’s new Art and Culture district, is the recent

the newest addition to Hanover’s art scene. It opened in August 2012.

creation of business owner, Hugh Joyce. Fresh in its approach, the gal-

A phone call from the widow of Billy Kelley resulted in a dream come

lery features moveable walls and modern clean space. Gestures, fea-

true for Teressa Pearson, Minh Chau Truong, and Peggy Wadlington.

turing works of Eve Stockton, Susanne Arnold and Amy Harris opens

ArtStudio@301 offers art classes and exhibitions. Now through the

March 7th from 5:30 pm to 8 pm. Transitions: Paintings by Leonette

March 29 is the Love of the Arts Show. Ashland’s own Jeff Ford’s Exclu-

Adler, Kathleen Walsh, Carol Meese and Woodturning by Barbara Dill

sive Photography Exhibition will open March 30th from 2 pm to 6 pm.

opens on April 11, 2013 from 5:30 pm to 8 pm and runs until May 3.

Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 11am to 4pm

Gallery Flux and the Virginia Art Chat will be presenting a brand new

Contact: Teressa Pearson, 537-5238 or 347-5488

lecture series throughout 2013 featuring Alex Nyerges, Director of The Virginia Museum of Fine Art. On May 11th, Pam and Bill Royall will

One of the best kept secret in Hanover is the Flippo Gallery (located on the 1st floor of Paces-Armistead Hall at Randolph Macon Col-

speak about their collection of contemporary art. Hours: Tuesday to Friday, 10am to 5pm, Saturday 11 to 4pm

lege, www.rmc.edu/Academics). On display until April 5th, is Rosemary

Contact: Nissa Lipowicz, 752-3540, info@galleryflux.com

Jesionowski. In her own words, Jesionowski’s work is “a continual investigation of place and how we identify ourselves through location”.

The Montpelier Center for Arts & Education (17205 Mountain

Arthur Hash and Susanna Starr will be on exhibit on Sunday, April 21st

Road, Montpelier, www.montpeliercenter.com) covers the western

to Friday, May 31st, with a reception on Sunday, April 21st, from 3 pm to

side of the county. With eight or more exhibits a year, the Center fea-

5 pm. Arthur Hash and Susanna Starr will exhibit works derivative of

tures local, regional and national artists, Patrick Henry High School

the traditional practices of sculpture and metalsmithing.

Fine Art Students, and exhibits from the Virginia Museum of Fine

Hours: Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm

Arts. Captured Moments: the Work of Dennis Winston: Woodcuts and

Contact: Katie Shaw, 752-3018

Drawings will open March 1st, with a reception and gallery talk at 6 pm. Winston says, “The woodcut allows me to use direct, bold, black

The eastern side of Hanover is represented by Windemere Gallery

and white imagery to create works that reflect both my social and aes-

(6162 Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville, www.windemereart-

thetic needs.” He captures the essence of his subjects and at the same

gallery.com). What started out as a gallery for Lee Artists Association

time makes the surface marks interesting to the eye. Barbara Ginsberg,

has now grown to multiple uses with various art classes, numerous ex-

a collage artist and photographer, will open her show on April 7 from

hibitions and studio spaces. With plans to open another 1000 square

2 pm to 4 pm and run through April 30th. She conjures up images from

foot building this spring, Windemere will be the largest art space in

dreams and memories and is drawn to the process of “image making”

Hanover.

through color, a line, a shape and the overall sensation they invoke. Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 am to 9 pm, Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm Contact: Lois Shipley, 883-7378

Hours: Monday to Saturday, Noon to 4pm Contact: Louise Wickham, 836-5700 Rumor has it that we might be seeing more visual art venues in the near future. Stay tuned and remember to support the arts! n

MARCH/APRIL 2013

P E O P L E & P L A C E S

(Above) Inside Gallery Flux, (Below Right) Dennis Winston’s “Sunday Morning Sisters”, at The Montpelier Center for Arts & Education, (Below Left) Rosemary Jesionowski’s “Mapping Nowhere: from E to A”, mixed media at Flippo Gallery.

www.richmondnavigator.com

Dominion Dermatology: Treating and Preventing Skin Cancers

id you know that skin cancer is the most common of all cancers? In fact, nearly one-half of all cancers

in the United States are skin cancers. And, according to a study done last year by the Mayo Clinic, melanoma rates among young women are eight times higher than they were forty years ago. Although melanomas are the most serious types of skin cancer, it is almost always curable when detected in its early stages. We spoke with Doctors Sharon S. Camden (M.D., Ph.D) and Jean K. Calhoun (M.D.) of Dominion Dermatology recently, and both emphasized the work their practice is doing with regard to the treatment of skin cancer. “While we treat all medical conditions of the skin, the hair, and the nails,” Dr. Camden says, “we put special emphasis on treating patients with skin cancers and on melanoma screening exams.” Dr. Camden adds, “We have multiple treatment modalities to treat premalignant lesions and our goal is to prevent skin cancer if possible. If a person notices a skin lesion is getting larger, darker or starts to bleed, they need to make an appointment as soon as possible. Any mole that begins to itch or becomes sensitive needs to be checked." Obviously, there are things we can do to minimize the risk, and in that regard, Dr. Calhoun says, “Sunscreens that contain zinc and/or titanium are more natural with fewer chemicals and offer longer coverage

for both the UVB and UVA rays. Sun protective clothing is even better than sunscreens. No chemicals and no guessing!” Dominion Dermatology is located at 5201-A Hickory Park Drive, in Glen Allen. You can phone them at 804 262-6060 or visit online at www.dominiondermatology.org. n 68

MARCH/APRIL 2013

F A M I L Y

Throwing Parties at Home

By Katelyn Wyszynski

t’s that time of the year again . . . time to start planning kids’ parties, that is. Last year at

English muffins for the main course and let

Chuck E. Cheese was a little too overwhelming for you—sure, the music and chaos of an

kids apply their own toppings. Next, have

arcade relieved the pressure of having to come up with activities . . . but, in the end, the

some cupcakes on hand and, after covering

bill, and the noise-induced headache that took a week to dissolve, were a little much.

an outdoor table with newspaper or a plastic

This year, keep things simple by throwing a party at home.

tablecloth, let the kids decorate their own

The easiest way to throw a successful party at home is to take things outside. A deck,

desserts. To add another activity to the mix,

backyard, front yard—any patch of fresh air can be turned into a fun spot (temperature and

tape blank paper down on the table and let

elements permitting). Playgrounds and sandpits are helpful, but you can also import unique

kids color their workstations with crayons

entertainment to your chosen spot. For example, inflatable bounce houses are available

prior to icing the cakes. Another fun version

for private rental. These houses take a lot of the pressure off of parents when it comes to

of this involves the little ones making their

entertaining a crowd of kids, and there’s no mess involved. Shoes are left outside the fun

own ice cream sundaes! The crumbs and

house and the crowd goes wild inside. But if your children have already seen their fair share of

spills will be outdoors, which is an easy-to-

moonwalks, here are a few other outdoor ideas:

clean spot. n

Backyard Waterpark Inflatable rentals don’t stop at fun houses. Astro Jump in Richmond is a vendor that also offers blow-up water slides for outdoor birthday parties in the summer. In addition to a water slide, you can also set up a sprinkler for the kids to run through, a slip-n-slide, mini pools with games, and more. These sorts of outdoor environments also enable bigger crowds, allowing

And some pointers that will automatically keep things on the easier side:

parents to stick around for the festivities. This provides you with some company to chat with

Keep the guest list small.

while the kids splash around, while also giving you lots of extra eyes to keep a look out for

Keep the guest list small: the fewer five-year-

falls, spills or overall behavior.

olds you have running around and are trying

Drive-In Theater Another great idea for an outdoor party is bringing your child’s favorite movie to the big screen. Rather than toting everyone to the movie theater and worrying about the cost of tickets and snacks, as well as trying to control noise volume in a crowded theater, rentals from places like Fun Flicks help you create a more memorable movie-going experience for the kids. Fun Flicks has a variety of oversized inflatable movie screens that will allow you to set up a modified “drive-in” movie for kids—whether they’re sitting on towels, their bikes, or some other clever conception. Best of all, if rain or cold weather puts a halt to that idea, there are screens that can also fit indoors. You can use beanbag chairs, inflatable furniture, oversized

to rein in, the easier your job (and the less mess).

Think about the time of day. Think about the time of day: less food and drink need to be provided in the middle of the afternoon. If you don’t need to serve lunch, it will decrease the amount of food needed significantly.

Skip the Party Favors.

pillows, or other household items to create a fun indoor movie theater as well. Popcorn is

Skip the party favors. These days, party

a cheap and easy snack, and kids won’t argue with lids on their drinks—that’s how they’re

invitees are not as expectant when it comes

served at the movies!

to having a treat to take home. And if you

Outdoor Chef The price of renting anything inflatable can get high pretty quickly, but there are plenty of other alternatives for a fun, non-destructive, at-home kids’ party. Rather than buy food,

follow some of the creative ideas above, you can turn a meal, the cake, or the party activity into a treat!

games, and party favors, let the entertainment take care of all that. Build mini pizzas on www.richmondnavigator.com

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

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6102 Brashier Boulevard, Suite H, Mechanicsville, VA 23111 | www.trinityrenovationsinc.com | (804) 318-1907 70

MARCH/APRIL 2013

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T H E

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Spice Up

Your Kitchen p

Beautiful iridescent glass tile creates an eye-

catching and interesting backsplash. Photo courtesy of Matt Gunn, CKD, and Classic Kitchens of Virginia. www.classickitchensofva.com

s your kitchen screaming for a makeover? Have you been dreaming of a redo, waiting to renovate for the past few years and you’re now ready to get started? There is no time like the present! Read on for some fresh ideas and a few trends in kitchen design you might like to know about before you begin.

The kitchen is undoubtedly the hub of your home. Have

an atmosphere of fun and lively

a dynamic, multipurpose, and vibrant space, in many homes

interaction.

buzzing with almost constant activity. In every home, the

By Vicki O’Neal, ASID, CID, VSLD

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.

multiple tasks simultaneously, creating

you noticed that it’s where people seem to congregate? It is

Kitchen floor plans usually start

kitchen supports a multitude of functions outside its purely

with the basic geometry of the galley,

utilitarian purpose. The kitchen could be called the heart and

U-shape, L-shape, peninsula, or island,

soul of your home.

with variations depending on the square

In a kitchen where work and activities flow easily and

footage available and the openness

naturally, no one notices much about the layout or placement

to adjacent spaces. Regardless of the

of components. In contrast, if one key functional item such as

size, the kitchen layout should spatially

the refrigerator is located incorrectly in relationship to the rest,

support the primary relationships

it can be a constant source of aggravation and inconvenience.

and basic functions, and ideally be

Because of its significance in daily life and the complexity and

configured to save time and shorten

expense of its components, the importance of kitchen planning

distances between tasks.

and design should not be underestimated. It is possibly

If you’d like to create a larger open

the most important home improvement project that can be

kitchen and space is at a premium,

undertaken.

combining two spaces can add the

Make a Plan In kitchen planning, past emphasis on the concept known

additional square footage needed. If you have a formal dining room, for instance, consider carefully how often you actually

as “the work triangle” still applies in its essence. This can be

use it and whether that space might be

thought of as an imaginary triangle that connects the major

better utilized to enlarge the kitchen that

functional elements in the kitchen: the sink, the range, and the

you will enjoy every day. Alternatively, if

refrigerator. In larger, open kitchens, however, a looser concept

budget permits, an addition may be the

of space planning built around arrangement of activity zones

best option for creating a larger, multi-

is applicable. This type of kitchen layout can accommodate

use kitchen.

www.richmondnavigator.com

accommodate every possible gadget or device, strike your fancy? These options may add that special convenience and design touch you’re looking for. Restaurant-inspired and celebrity chefstyle kitchens are a choice for some serious cooks. These may include oversized appliances, details, and finishes in keeping with those more typically found in a commercial setting. Exposed shelving and pot racks, although seen in many different types of kitchens, can add a bit of openness and character while keeping items within easy reach.

Create a Gourmet Kitchen Achieving the look and feel of a gourmet kitchen is not just

furniture-type components can infuse a kitchen with

about component choices such as appliances; it also includes

personality and charm. If your taste is eclectic, for example,

cabinet style, finishes, lighting, and other details. For the

consider an antique or heirloom hutch as a functional piece of

epicurean or perhaps for someone who just loves cooking,

kitchen furniture. A mixed-style kitchen is sometimes referred

outfitting a kitchen with a few extra bells and whistles not

to as “unfitted.”This type of design can produce a unique and

only kicks the aesthetics up a notch but can also improve ease

visually interesting setting while lending a warm and homey

of use and convenience. A pot-filler faucet at the range, for

feeling. A favorite piece may serve as design inspiration for

instance, eliminates a trip to the sink with a heavy pot. You may

the entire space and satisfy the desire to craft a personalized

be interested in specialized work areas such as a baking station

statement.

with a pullout cutting board, a lift-up mixer in the base cabinet, or other customized task center. Extras such as a wine/ beverage refrigerator and perhaps a

Define the Design A refreshing alternative to homogenous built-in cabinetry,

Similarly, and as kitchens have expanded in size and complexity, many are designed with mixed two-tone cabinet styles and finishes, with contrasting features such as islands,

designer sink can take the look to the next level, or a vegetable

upper and lower cabinets, or a butler’s pantry. Consider

prep area near the refrigerator can create a secondary

borrowing European details including plate racks, open

work station. Consider upscale cooking technology such as

storage, and freestanding pieces. For a more contemporary

an induction cooktop or a steam or convection oven. How

aesthetic, incorporate a more streamlined design with simpler

about warming drawers or a built-in espresso machine? Do

details, less busy, cleaner lines, and subdued, natural colors

customized storage and organizational features, designed to

and patterns. MARCH/APRIL 2013

A R O U N D

Integral to every kitchen is the need to store everything

T H E

H O U S E

(Above) Big islands are big! Their designs can integrate multiple work

under the sun. Storage has become quite a specialty, with

stations and provide a great place for seating, thus creating a lively and

specific inserts for drawers, customized pantry systems,

interactive space.

pullouts, wine storage, etc. The most important factor in configuring storage is to take advantage of all available inches

(Opposite Page) Granite countertops are still the gold standard for

while keeping objects highly visible and within easy reach.

integrating natural beauty, color, and pattern.

Many items are moving from the areas where they have

selections, lighting design, and furniture choices all play

been typically stored and now can be found in surprising but practical locations. One example of this trend is locating spices in drawer bins. Some specialized storage for items such as wine requires unusual conditions such as light and temperature control.

Think It Through

essential roles in creating the look and character of your new space. Whatever style you choose, keep in mind that open floor plans create the need to coordinate the look of the kitchen with furnishings in adjacent spaces. The kitchen should also be in keeping with the aesthetics of the rest of your home. A new kitchen is a big investment, and it pays to do

The most significant considerations in designing your new

plenty of research before committing. For construction and

kitchen are creating convenience, functionality, longevity, and

renovations, consider professional design services and hire

simplicity of operation and maintenance. Setting, working

experienced, insured, and licensed contractors. Make decisions

within, and keeping track of that pesky budget are key to

up front and, if possible, have all materials and appliances on

controlling and guiding decisions. Finishes and material

site before work begins. n

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 | www.richmondnavigator.com

/ FandFdesign 73

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RICHMOND MARBLE & GRANITE

offers manufactured stone countertops as well, representing such industry leaders as Zodiac, Cambria, and Caesarstone. Within the past six months, Richmond Marble and Granite has responded to customer requests by providing kitchen cabinets as well. And, to showcase their wares, they will be opening

hen it comes to kitchen and bathroom renova-

an approximately 3,000 square-foot showroom by mid-Spring.

tions, most consumers are primarily interested in

Even now, there is a small showroom in place as well as the

three things, says Ilker Karapinar, who owns and

capability for customers to order cabinets through supplier

operates Richmond Marble and Granite, along with his cousin, Tolga Ece. "First," he says, "they want affordability. Everyone is thinking about the pennies these days." Additionally, Karapinar says consumers want high quality products and expert installation. Karapinar and Ece, who emigrated from Istanbul, Turkey in 2000, opened their Ashland-based company in 2006. Prior to

catalogs. The third component in Karapinar’s recipe to providing exceptional customer satisfaction involves the workmanship. That starts in Richmond Marble and Granite’s facilities. He says the company offers precision cutting using the latest in CNC plasma cutters. "We even offer digital templating of our customer’s kitchen or bathroom," Karapinar says. Once the product is ready for installation, Richmond Mar-

that, the two had operated a contracting business in Northern

ble and Granite utilizes only professionally trained experts

Virginia, renovating kitchens and bathrooms.

who are company employees, all of whom have several years

Recognizing that they could better serve their customers if they also provided fabrication services, they relocated to this

experience in countertop and cabinet installation. Price, quality, and professional craftsmanship…those are

area and opened Richmond Marble and Granite. "We were at

the things that Ilker Karapinar says are vital in assuring that

the center here," Karapinar says. "We could go north and south

the customer is satisfied with the finished product. But while

on I-95 and east and west on I-64." And, indeed, their busi-

affordability is an important element, he cautions consumers

ness has them hitting the highways frequently, as they beautify

not to make a decision based on price alone.

the kitchens and the bathrooms for customers throughout the state. Karapinar, who has a degree in civil engineering from Ca-

"If the countertop you desire is a little more costly, you should get it, even if it means you have to wait a bit longer." He says he has seen homeowners come to regret their decisions

nakkale University, in Turkey (Ece is a mechanical engineer),

when based simply on price. The problems may arise because

explains the affordability aspect of the business. "We buy large

the supplier failed to match two or more slabs of granite, or

quantities of granite," he says. "When customers select the

because the countertops were unevenly cut by hand, or simply

product they want, they only pay for the actual square footage

because of poor workmanship on the part of the installers.

they need. For instance, if they only need one-and-a-half slabs, that’s all they pay for." Many suppliers would charge for the entire second slab, he says, half of which, the consumer would never need. Not only

"Your natural stone countertop should add to the value of your home," Karapinar says. "It should not be a fast decision. Go with the stone you like and can be comfortable living with for many years to come." n

does this mean savings to the original consumer, but Richmond Marble and Granite offers substantial discounts in their remnants section. "The smaller pieces can be used for such things as a bathroom vanity or for a granite table top," Karapinar says. At Richmond Marble and Granite, the customer has the opportunity to select from an inventory of more than a 1,000 different granite slabs in some 150 styles and colors. And because the granite is purchased by the bundle (seven slabs from the same rock), you are assured that your entire countertop will match, even when additional slabs are needed. In addition to natural rock, the company 74

MARCH/APRIL 2013

A R O U N D

T H E

H O U S E

Plant Now for Earlier Blooms By Jennifer Norvell Saunders

pring is in the air and many of us are counting the days until we can get outside and get planting. If you’re among these eager gardeners, there’s no need to wait. You can get started on your spring and summer blooms right now, using a technique called “Winter Sowing.”

Winter sowing can be used all throughout the coldest months, right up until you can sow directly into the ground. It involves planting hardy seeds in flats or trays during the winter and setting them outside to germinate naturally when the weather warms. Not only does this method allow you to plant even though the landscape and the temperatures are still frigid, it gives hardy flowers a head start and eliminates the need for seed trays and grow lights in the house.

Seed Selection

To get you started, here are some pos-

mended on the seed package and pat

sible choices for winter sowing:

them down. Put the lid on and you’ve

plants that naturally sow their seeds dur-

Alyssum

Hollyhocks

created a mini greenhouse for your

ing colder temperatures, native plants

Bachelor’s Button

Love-in-a-mist

seeds.

and wildflowers. It can also work for

Cleome

Marigolds

plants that you’ve noticed volunteering

Coreopsis

Petunias

you’ll know what you’ve planted. Then

in your garden in the early spring. Seeds

Cosmos

Poppies

put your trays outside where they’ll be

for tender annuals or tropical flowers

Four O’Clocks

Annual Salvias

exposed to the natural elements. Because

and herbs are probably not good choices.

Foxglove

Snapdragons

you’re sowing your seeds now rather

Violas

than in the dead of winter, find a location

Winter sowing can be successful for

Seed packets and catalogues can give

where your containers will get plenty of

you clues about the likelihood of success. Look for descriptions that include terms such as:

Planting Tips You can buy seed trays or make your

light but will be shaded from the hotter afternoon sun.

“Needs stratification." This is the process

own. If you decide to make a tray, foil

that involves subjecting seeds to cold

take-out containers with clear plastic lids

causing the seeds to germinate just as

moist air for a certain number of days

work well. Simply cut several drainage

they would naturally. As your seed-

or weeks as would happen naturally

slits into the bottom of your clean con-

lings grow, start widening the vents in

outside. It may be too late this season for

tainer. Then cut vents into the plastic lid

the plastic lids until over time the lid is

seeds that need several weeks of cold,

to allow air to circulate. If you skip this

mostly open. Remove the lid completely

but as long as it’s still cold at night, those

step, your seeds will cook in the sun and

once the danger of freezing has passed

with a shorter time frame should work.

won’t germinate.

for good. Keep an eye on the soil and if it

“Will colonize,” “reseeds,” or “self-sows”

Be sure to label your containers so

Next, fill the pan with soil to about

Your seed trays will warm and cool

looks dry, water gently.

“Wildflower” or “Weed” in the description

a half inch from the top. Water the soil

or name (think Joe Pye Weed).

thoroughly and let it drain. You want

transplant and the danger of freeze or

“Sow outdoors in early spring.”

the soil to be damp but not soggy. Then

frost is gone, you can plant them directly

“Hardy,” or “Can withstand frost.”

just sow your seeds to the depth recom-

into your garden! n

Once seedlings are old enough to

MARCH/APRIL 2013

Kids love to get their hands dirty. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why Project Plant It! is such a success. This unique program designed by Dominion makes learning about trees fun through classroom activities and teaching materials, an interactive web site and a free tree seedling for each participating student to plant on Arbor Day. Project Plant It!â&#x20AC;&#x201D;empowering children today for a greener tomorrow.

To learn more about how you can help protect the environment, dig into ProjectPlantIt.com.