Midlothian, VA April 2020

APRIL 2020

MidlothianLifestyle.com

the eco issue

GREEN ENERGY AT HOME BRINGING BIODIVERSITY TO YOUR YARD WINDOW SOLUTIONS CRAFTED WITH CREATIVITY

VO T E D R I C H M O N D ’ S

BEST REAL E S TAT E T E A M The Yeatman Group of Long & Foster Real Estate is the #1 selling Real Estate Team in the RVA region, providing a never before seen, all-inclusive, service experience for both buyers and sellers of new and resale residential homes. The Yeatman Group has recently received several local and national awards, such as ranking in The Wall Street Journal’s yearly REAL Trends’ report as the #167

top agent in the countr y, and being voted as Richmond’s Best Real Estate Team. Serving over 525 families in 2019 alone, and over 1,500 since its inception in 2014, The Yeatman Group looks forward to helping more buyers and sellers in 2020 achieve their real estate goals. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or build, work with a team you can trust - call us today!

C o nt a c t u s to d a y a t 8 0 4 . 3 7 2 . 8 7 8 7 | s a l e s @ t he ye a t m a n g r ou p . co m | w w w . t he ye a t m a n g r ou p . co m

MIDLOTHIAN LUXURY REPORT Neighborhood

Address

Sq Ft

S o l d Pr i c e

Pr i c e / S q F t

Closing Date

DOM

Clarkes Forge

12111 Iron Forge Dr

5,465

$940,000

$172

02/10/20

19

Hallsley

2200 Fawley Ct

6,220

$850,000

$136

01/30/20

177

Tarrington

3801 Caddington Dr

4,221

$771,353

$182

02/14/20

4

Tarrington

3637 Caddington Ter

3,650

$767,321

$210

02/24/20

4

Hallsley

1313 Ascot Hill Ter

3,211

$722,139

$224

02/11/20

0

Hallsley

16207 Binley Rd

3,574

$705,000

$197

02/07/20

158

Hallsley

16313 Saville Chase Ln

3,463

$675,500

$195

01/30/20

18

Tarrington

12806 Caddington Ct

2,970

$666,466

$224

02/11/20

4

Reeds Landing

3711 Dunleith Ct

4,718

$627,500

$133

02/15/20

130

Rountrey

0000 Barford Dr

2,981

$614,684

$206

02/25/20

2

Reeds Landing

3511 Lansdowne Rd

3,762

$585,000

$155

02/20/20

18

Hallsley

16448 Lambourne Rd

3,508

$585,000

$166

02/13/20

26

Queenspark

2721 Robys Way

3,744

$580,000

$154

01/31/20

53

Rountrey

15019 Rountrey

3,014

$505,000

$167

02/21/20

0

Days on Market

*This data was provided by CVR MLS **Top 14 sales in the Midlothian and James River High School Districts in the last 30 days (as of 2/26/20)

HOW MUCH IS YOUR HOME WORTH? Visit www.viewhomesinrichmond.com/homevalue to see what your home is worth!

Interested in selling your home? Receive a personalized report with an estimated home value, a list of recently sold homes similar to yours in your neighborhood, and a follow up call with our Online Sales Specialist to help you know how much your home is worth!

Fo r a m o r e i n d e p t h a n a l y s i s o f o u r l o c a l m a r k e t , p l e a s e c a l l u s a t 8 0 4 . 3 7 2 . 8 7 8 7 o r s a l e s @ t h e y e a t m a n g r o u p . c o m

LIFESTYLE LETTER

APRIL 2020 PUBLISHER

Aaron Swart | aaron.swart@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Mary Ellin Arch | maryellin.arch@lifestylepubs.com

Welcome to the Eco Issue, Midlothian!

WE ALL VALUE THE PRECIOUS PLANET ON WHICH WE LIVE. In Midlothian, we do our part to participate in all the many ways we have of honoring our environment. In the 2020 ECO issue, we’ll take a look at what you’re doing to make a difference for our local ecosystem.

From solar energy to landscape design to DIY tips on “green living” at home, we’re sure you’ll want to dive into this issue to learn more about how our community is contributing to preserving our environment. Read further, and you’ll see how even locally, custom-crafted windows can maximize energy efficiency in your home.

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Emily Alwood | emmiclairephoto@gmail.com SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Jay Smack, SmackSound/Red Amp Audio | smackjay@gmail.com SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Jeff Wingo, Wingo Visual Arts | jeffwingo@me.com AD DESIGNER

Evan Deuvall LAYOUT DESIGNER

Jayme Emery

Finally, we have a "Meatless Monday" recipe and, appropriately enough for the month containing Tax Day, a financial planning article to help you reduce taxes and have more money in retirement.

We only have one planet, and we know we have to take care of it. Dive in to our Eco Issue and find out how!

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Aaron Swart, Publisher

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NEW YORK NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

ON THE COVER Brandon Fuller and Dominick Barlow of Sunlight Solar with customer Eric Kothe on the roof of Kothe’s solar-equipped home in Mechanicsville

PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY ALWOOD 4

Midlothian Lifestyle | April 2020

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

MidlothianLifestyle.com

Proverbs 3:5-6 Midlothian Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Midlothian areas’ most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Midlothian Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE APRIL 2020 FEATURES 14 SERVING THE EARTH AND THE COMMUNITY Trillium Gardens creates beautiful, biodiverse habitats – otherwise known as yards

18 GOING GREEN AT HOME Harring Construction’s custom homes are beautiful, comfortable, energy efficient – and full of ideas to help improve yours

22 INNOVATIVE DESIGN, CRAFTED WITH CREATIVITY Elite Windows vows to make a difference for customers, the community and the planet

26 LET THE SUN SHINE IN! Sunlight Solar helps homeowners reduce

22 14

their carbon footprints while also taking an active role in supporting the community

26

18

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Culinary Creations

14

Locally Owned

18 DIY 22 Trend Setter 26 Giving Back 30 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Financial Buzz

The question should be “How are you?”

Not “Who are you?”

When a doctor sees 30-40 patients a day, it’s more difficult to know each of them on a truly personal level. At PartnerMD, our concierge primary care doctors see far fewer patients than a traditional practice, allowing significant time for listening, understanding and a respectful two-way conversation. This is how real partnerships are built, leading to more personalized care and lifelong advocacy for you and your health. Get to know us better at partnerMD.com.

Care so personal, it’s like having a doctor in the family.

GOOD TIMES

A Night for Scott The 3rd Annual A Night for Scott was hosted Feb. 15 at Salisbury Country Club and featured speakers Sen. John Bell, Sheriff Karl Leonard and Patsy Tucker, who all shared personal stories and activism efforts in raising awareness of substance use disorder. Learn more: www.anightforscott.com PHOTOGRAPHY BY NANCY BARE, PAINTING WITH LIGHT

Midlothian Business Alliance Local business leaders and Chesterfield County officials gathered on Jan. 16 at Casa del Barco to celebrate the merger of the Midlothian Business Alliance and the Greater Southport Business Association. Then on Feb. 6, supervisors Leslie Haley and Chris Winslow presented a Midlothian Outlook report to the new MBA at Salisbury Country Club. Find out more at midlobusiness.com.

8

Midlothian Lifestyle | April 2020

"Sip and Shop" sponsored by Southern Marsh Southern Marsh celebrated Valentine's Day early with a "Sip and Shop" event on Feb. 8th, the first of what will be an ongoing series.

James River Cellars served a tasting flight of wines paired with local sweet treats. Valentine-themed gift vendors were also on site, and shoppers were entered into a Kendra Scott jewelry raffle.

When Would You Want to Know?

Receive Your Retirement Plan Strategy Checklist Today

www.HaveToKnowNow.com

It’s your retirement. What if...

What if everything you’ve been told about planning for your retirement was dead wrong?

What if your retirement strategy turned out to be good for the IRS but terrible for you?

What if there was a way to avoid investment losses in your retirement account forever and only enjoy gains?

When would you want to know?

If you have to know now, while there’s still time to do something about it, we’d be happy to talk with you.

Please contact Jeff Dietz at:

804.608.9775 / jeff@ jeffdietzf inancial.com April 2020 | Midlothian Lifestyle

9

AROUND TOWN Tickets are $75 and get you heavy hors d’oeurvres, cocktails and $10,000 in fun money. Save your seat at give.classy.org/ehCasinoNight.

All proceeds benefit Eliza Hope Foundation and its work addressing the needs of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental delays. Learn more at https://elizahope.org/.

CRAFT ICE CREAM COMES TO MIDLOTHIAN Gelati Celesti, a Richmond-based and family-owned craft ice cream maker, has announced it will open its seventh location at 13487 Hull Street Road in Midlothian.

Owner Steve Rosser said customers have been asking for a Gelati Celesti location in western Midlothian near the State Route 288 corridor.

The new location will be the sixth in the Richmond area and is expected to open this month.

GOLF FUNDRAISER TO HELP MIDLOTHIAN NONPROFIT HELP UGANDAN MISSION Love golf? Get in a round and do some good at the same time, just by playing in the 2nd annual Wishing for Wells Golf Tournament on April 20 at Brandermill Country Club.

The event benefits Kassunga Mission Initiative, a Midlothian-based nonprofit fighting poverty in rural Uganda by digging wells and providing educational support.

The tournament begins at 11:30 a.m. and includes

It’s time once again for Mega Lunch + Expo sponsored by the Chesterfield Chamber of Commerce. This year’s premier business networking event is happening April 3 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Richmond Volleyball Club, 200 Karl Linn Dr., in the Stonebridge plaza.

On tap: vendors, education workshop with Patrick Carroll, restaurant tastings by Chamber Garden, raffles, giveaways, and more. For details: chesterfieldchamber.com

SAVE THE DATE FOR CHESTERFIELD LIVE!

18 holes, lunch, and awards dinner. Win big with

The Chesterfield LIVE! music festival returns to

poker mulligans, a wheelbarrow raffle, and silent

the Chesterfield Fairgrounds, 10300 Courthouse

and live auctions!

Road, for its second year on May 9.

Register at http://www.kassungamission.org/

Hosted by Chesterfield County in partnership

charity-golf-tournament/. Registrations are due

with the Richmond Symphony and the Chesterfield

by April 13.

County Chamber of Commerce, this free, fami-

SAVE YOUR SEAT AT CASINO NIGHT!

ly-friendly event features a variety of musical acts performing under the Symphony’s iconic “Big Tent.”

The Eliza Hope Foundation is holding a Casino

Keep an eye on ChesterfieldLive.org for

Night May 1 at The Dominion Club in Glen Allen.

updates and details. Plan to kick off Mother’s Day

It’s the first of what the foundation hopes will be an

weekend in style with Chesterfield LIVE!

annual fund-raising event.

10

MEGA LUNCH + EXPO 2020 IS ALMOST HERE!

Midlothian Lifestyle | April 2020

CHESTERFIELD TO PARTICIPATE IN DOMINION ENERGY’S ELECTRIC SCHOOL BUS PROGRAM Chesterfield County’s fleet of school buses is getting a jolt.

Dominion Energy is preparing to deliver two electric school buses to the county by the end of the year as part of the company’s Electric School Bus Program. This is the first time Chesterfield will add electric vehicles to its fleet of more than 630 buses.

The Electric School Bus Program aims to reduce emissions as well as operation and maintenance costs. The buses’ batteries will be able to store and inject electric energy into the local power grid during periods of high demand when the buses are not in use.

Celebrate All Things Golf Carol Pamperin, Designer

(804) 726-0227 | www.JouezJewelry.com

Feeling like you paid too much in taxes this year?

FUN ON THE FARM AT THE VIRGINIA FARM FESTIVAL

Contact your financial advisor today to learn about investing strategies that could benefit you.

Gather the family and head to The Meadow Event Park in Caroline County May 2 and 3 for its brand-new Virginia Farm Festival.

Highlights include sheepdog trials, lawnmower races, the Agricadabra magic show, a farm animal exhibit and large-scale farm equipment exhibits.

Adult tickets will be $6 in advance starting April 1; gate prices are $8. Children 12 and under are free.

Parking is free for everyone.

The event will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit MeadowEventPark.com.

Sean Danowski We are always accepting submissions for announce-

Financial Advisor

ments you’d like to see included in our Around Town

240 Browns Way Road Midlothian, VA 231149501 804 - 794 - 3595

section. Submissions are accepted via the Contact Us tab at MidlothianLifestyle.com.

edwardjones.com Member SIPC

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April 2020 | Midlothian Lifestyle

11

CULINARY CREATIONS ARTICLE DANA MILLER, PAMPERED CHEF

lose the meat, keep the flavor

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

MEATLESS MONDAY IS A GLOBAL MOVEMENT WITH A SIMPLE MESSAGE: ONE DAY A WEEK, CUT THE MEAT. The goal for this movement is to reduce meat consumption by 15% for our own personal health and the health of the planet. By using fresh ingredients along with a few carbs this is the perfect recipe for an easy Meatless Monday meal option. www.gatherroundwithdana.com Instagram: GatherRoundWithDana

bruschetta pasta INGREDIENTS + 1 box (16 oz) Farfalle “Bowtie” Pasta + 2 cans of low sodium chicken broth + 1/4 cup finely cut fresh basil + 3-4 garlic cloves + 1/3 cup olive oil + 3-4 ripe plum tomatoes + pinch of salt + 4 oz fresh Parmesan cheese INSTRUCTIONS 1. Add pasta to the Pampered Chef Rockcrok Dutch Oven or Deep Covered Baker. Cover pasta with two cans of chicken broth. Place lid on the power tool vessel and microwave for 8 minutes. After 8 minutes, stir using Nylon Spoon. Replace the cover and microwave for an additional 8 minutes.

2. While the pasta is cooking, cut tomatoes into

BY ELIMINATING MEAT JUST ONE DAY A WEEK, WE CAN ALL CONTRIBUTE TO A HEALTHIER PLANET

quarters and place in Manual Food Processor.

Then, using the Garlic Press, add 3 - 4 cloves of garlic on top of the tomatoes. Next, add salt, 1/3 cup of olive oil and finely cut basil. Close Manual Food Processor and pump handle until bruschetta sauce is to your desired thickness.

3. When the pasta is done, remove from the microwave and mix in the bruschetta sauce.

4. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Bruschetta Pasta 12

Midlothian Lifestyle | April 2020

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LOCALLY OWNED

SERVING THE EARTH AND THE COMMUNIT Y TRILLIUM GARDENS CREATES BEAUTIFUL, BIODIVERSE HABITATS – OTHERWISE KNOWN AS YARDS

ARTICLE MARY ELLIN ARCH PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Michael Spence of Trillium Gardens 14

Midlothian Lifestyle | April 2020

WHAT’S A YARD?

partner Jason Snider, chief designer; and two

For some, it’s a flawless carpet of lush

crewmen, Joel Reynolds and Dan Kelly. Right

green grass punctuated by perfectly

now, Trillium landscaping is limited to plants,

pruned trees and shrubbery. For others,

but Spence hopes to expand into hardscapes.

it’s a wild mix of clover, violets, and native

Services include maintenance contracts for

grasses that provide homes for butter-

mowing and raking through full-scale land-

flies, birds, and frogs.

scaping and design.

Michael Spence does both. Sometimes for the same customer.

“We work with anyone,” Spence said. “We have worked on rental properties.”

“What’s a weed?” asked Spence, on a tour

No detail is too small for Trillium. Hedges

of some of the yards he’s designed as owner

are trimmed by hand, annuals swapped on

of Trillium Gardens. “Is it what a chemical

schedule, perennials dead-headed, edges

company calls it? Why have we demonized

trimmed, leaves removed. “Attention to

dandelions?” Then he tells of a customer who

detail sets us apart,” Spence said.

forbids the plucking of dandelions, prompting Spence to incorporate them into her yard.

Every customer is different, of course, and some prefer a manicured lawn (no dandelions). Which prompts a discussion on symmetrical and asymmetrical designs. Again, a Trillium yard may be either.

More than that, though, is Trillium’s focus on environmental sustainability. “We incorporate native plants in all our designs,” Spence said. “Biodiversity supports the ecosystem.”

So do bugs. Spence urges customers not to wage war on them.

“Exterminators kill everything, even good

This is Trillium’s fifth year as a full-service

insects,” he said. “It’s important to remem-

lawn-care company: Spence, a horticulturalist;

ber that some insects are predators to

CONTINUED >

April 2020 | Midlothian Lifestyle

15

LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED) Tree frog

Monarch butterfly

damaging insects. Insects are part of a healthy garden, and

about his profession and has a tremendous sense of cus-

gardens are for discovery.”

tomer service,” said Emily Ward, who was impressed at how

Spence is partial to lawns combining grass with clover, which puts nitrogen into the soil. He relates how grass seed once contained 30% clover – until (of all things) television.

“Golf changed our yards,” he said. “People saw that golfcourse monoculture, and everything changed.”

An estate off Old Gun Road illustrates Trillium’s attention to detail and commitment to habitat health. The driveway and arrival court to the stately brick home are flanked by well-tended beds of ornamental cherries, shrubs, yarrow

Spence worked within her budget.

Jane Sahutski noted, “One of our sites has poor access and they were able to work around it, where other contractors flat out told us ‘no.’”

And Spence is Anne Schlegel’s “go-to guy” after transforming her “overwhelming mess” into “a beautiful and inviting” outdoor space.

But Trillium does more than tend to the Earth. Spence and Snider give back to the community, too.

and echinacea. Along the road is a “controlled meadow” of

It starts with how they treat employees. “We’re getting

natural grasses, red oak, tulip poplars, red maple, white oak,

certified as a livable wage company,” said Spence, noting

loblolly pine and gingko, with a winding, groomed path. A

crewmen are paid $16 per hour and get a year-end bonus.

pond stocked with sunfish and bluegill attracts kingfisher and

Customers donate toward an annual Christmas tree

turtles, and the meadow supports hawk, woodpecker and fox.

pickup, with proceeds benefiting Richmond Friends of the

This project also includes eradicating invasive species

Homeless. Some give as much as $200, and Trillium has

such as Chinese privet and winter creeper. “This is an excit-

contributed $7,000 to date. The trees are mulched.

ing project,” Spence said. “It incorporates all our expertise.”

Trillium also does community service with the James River

Further down Old Gun is a more traditional project.

Park System and will donate one workday to Lewis Ginter

Spence points with pride to a long boxwood hedge that the customer prefers pruned so each plant is defined.

Botanical Gardens starting this year.

“It’s our responsibility to care for the habitat,” Spence said.

Customers rave about Spence’s work, noting they received design drawings and plant descriptions. “He is passionate

16

Midlothian Lifestyle | April 2020

https://trilliumgardensrva.com/

Crape Myrtles, symmetrical design

“WE INCORPORATE NATIVE PLANTS IN ALL OUR DESIGNS. BIODIVERSIT Y SUPPORTS THE ECOSYSTEM.” Boxwood hedge, pruned individually

April 2020 | Midlothian Lifestyle

17

DIY

GOING GREEN AT HOME

HARRING CONSTRUCTION’S CUSTOM HOMES ARE BEAUTIFUL, COMFORTABLE, ENERGY EFFICIENT – AND FULL OF IDEAS TO HELP IMPROVE YOURS

ARTICLE MARY ELLIN ARCH

PHOTOGRAPHY RENE SCOTT-TOUR VA HOMES

YOU CAN’T TELL JUST BY LOOKING, BUT JEREMY HARRING’S NEW HOME IS A MODEL OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY. Thanks to Harring’s conscientious craftsmanship, the newest Harring Construction home (17901 Pine Canyon Trail, Magnolia Green) is loaded with features that make it 31% more efficient than the norm. It boasts meticulous applications of caulking, R-15 insulation (not the usual R-13), totally insulated and drywalled garages, and ventless, “conditioned” crawl spaces built to resist moisture and mold that can damage indoor air. Homes constructed to Harring’s exacting standards lose as little as 6 percent of conditioned air to leakage (typically, that leakage is 30%) and qualify as “green certified” as measured against the official HERS Rater (https://www.hersindex.com/ hers-index/interactive-hersindex/).

“We do more than what the code asks us to do,” Harring says.

But even older homes can be made more energy efficient. Much of what’s in Harring’s green home can be duplicated in yours.

Main living area in Harring eco home 18

Midlothian Lifestyle | April 2020

Jeremy Harring

5 EASY ECO HOME FEATURES

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

NEST THERMOSTAT: A standard feature in Harring’s homes, programmable Nests can save 10-15% on heating and cooling costs.

LOW-E WINDOWS: Harring homes feature low-emittance windows, double-paned and insulated with argon gas to keep out unwanted sun, heat and cold.

LED LIGHTING: Also standard in Harring

Nest thermometer

LED light fixture

homes. Now dimmable, and available in different shades, LEDs provide soft yet bright light with an output as low as 4 watts.

LOW-FLUSH TOILETS: A typical commode uses 1.6 gallons of water per flush; Harring uses 1-gallon toilets. DIY: Install window shades and awnings to block sun, heat and cold. Plant shade trees to shield from sun and wind. Ceiling fans can cool indoor air; reverse the spin to push warm air down from vaulted ceilings during winter.

Replace traditional bulbs with LEDs and shower heads with new versions that use less water but provide the same pressure.

SIMPLE SWAPS: CONTINUED >

April 2020 | Midlothian Lifestyle

19

DIY (CONTINUED)

Weatherstripping

DON’T NEGLECT YOUR GARAGE Ever notice how your garage seems to be a different temperature from the rest of your house? In Harring homes, garage doors are insulated and all walls finished with insulation and drywall. In a typical home, exterior garage walls may lack insulation and finishing materials and allow cold air in.

PICK THE RIGHT WATER HEATER Every home has a water heater, and traditional types are energy wasters, heating water that may not be needed for hours. A tankless device heats on demand and doesn’t waste energy warming water and then maintaining the temperature.

LITTLE THINGS MEAN A LOT “We take a whole-house systems approach,” said Harring. “But anyone can increase their home’s energy efficiency by making small changes over time.”

Harring Construction: www.harringconstruction.com The Yeatman Group of Long & Foster Real Estate (selling agent): www.theyeatmangroup.com Tankless water heater 20

Midlothian Lifestyle | April 2020

We’ll find you the house...

You make it “home” (804) 505.4274 13827 Village Place Dr. Midlothian, VA 23114 www.clocktowerrealtygroup.com

TREND SETTER

innovative design, crafted with creativity ELITE WINDOWS VOWS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR CUSTOMERS, THE COMMUNITY AND THE PLANET

WHEN LAUREN UTSCH WORKS ON A HOME DESIGN PROJECT, SHE ALWAYS KNOWS WHERE SHE’LL GO FOR WINDOWS: ELITE WINDOW SOLUTIONS. “They are a custom window fabrication company right here in our hometown,” said Utsch, of Lauren Christopher Designs in Midlothian. “I trust him, his team, and their product. I know he will go above and beyond to make my clients happy.”

Every Elite window is custom crafted out of a shop at 1720 Douthit Ct. in Powhatan County, just a few miles west of Westchester Commons.

They are individually designed by Andrew Stockton, who founded Elite Window Solutions 15 years ago after more than 35 years of business as Stockton Construction specializing in custom homes.

Sheer frustration with national window brands inspired Stockton to craft his own.

“We used to buy directly from national manufacturers, and they would find reasons not to honor their warranties,” said Stockton, who studied architectural engineering. “Quality was not up to our standards, and the ratings did not meet Energy Star. We knew we could do better.”

Every Elite product is made and sold from a 3,500-square-foot building off Anderson ARTICLE MARY ELLIN ARCH PHOTOGRAPHY ISABELLE HESCH 22

Midlothian Lifestyle | April 2020

This push-out window is a new Elite product

Highway, and marketed throughout Virginia and North Carolina. “Suppliers tell us we're the most efficient window and door manufacturer per square foot in the country,” Stockton says. “Most of the major manufacturers work out of 100,000-square-foot spaces.”

Elite windows are vinyl and come in every shape and size: double-hung, slider, casement, awning, picture, and special shapes including hub and spoke, half round, colonial, full round, colonial hexagon and triangle.

Various grid patterns are offered.

Utsch encourages her clients to visit Elite’s showroom and meet Stockton. “He always has great ideas and works through any design challenges with us,” she says.

Black windows with white exterior trim

“He is always up for the challenge of creating a design to fit any space.”

“We listen to our customers better than anyone, and we give them what they’re asking for,” Stockton says.

“People tell us they’ve been told it can’t be done, and we figure out how to do it. When a builder comes to me, I never say ‘no.’ It’s always, ‘How can I deliver what he’s asking for?’”

Builders concur. Danny Sowers of River City Custom Homes says Stockton is “always willing to listen to us and bring options to the table that we may not have seen before.”

A major focus is black exterior trim. “We’re doing half of our homes in black windows,” said Isabelle Hesch, an Elite sales coordinator.

Utsch agrees the trend is very popular now. “Black window exteriors can really change the look of a house,” she said. “They really drive the modern look.”

Many customers choose a black exterior finish but a white interior finish to avoid detracting from window treatments, Utsch added.

Elite also is known for glass doors, and patio doors are a big seller, said Hesch. Other Elite products include entry doors, insulated vinyl siding, railings and gutters.

All Elite windows are energy efficient – double and triple “low-E” (low-emitting) and filled with argon gas to make them resistant to thermal transference of outside heat and cold. All meet 2025 Energy Star requirements.

For the future, Stockton wants to add automation and robotics, and innovate products. “We’re looking into invisible glass,” he said. “We’re getting into European styling, more modern windows, and interior walls made of glass.” http://www.elitewindowsolutionsllc.com/

Andrew Stockton, founder of Elite Window Solutions

CONTINUED >

April 2020 | Midlothian Lifestyle

23

TREND SETTER (CONTINUED)

Modern home with black-trimmed windows by River City Custom Design

window-buying tips WHEN SHOULD WINDOWS BE REPLACED? Elite advises homeowners to evaluate their current windows to gauge appearance, draftiness, air quality, condensation, operation, cracking or other damage, energy costs, maintenance costs, and the impact on home resale value.

LIFETIME WARRANTIES: Elite Window Solutions stands behind its limited lifetime warranty on glass components and glass breakage, on exterior finishes in all colors installed by Elite, and on accessories including locks, lifts, hinges, and handles and roller screens.

BENEFITS OF ELITE PRODUCTS: These include easy maintenance (vinyl cleans with soap and water) and cost-effectiveness (wood or fiberglass windows cost more than vinyl). Elite windows also are built to withstand rain, sleet and snow, and won’t crack, chip or peel.

COLOR OPTIONS: Frost White, Sand Beige and Onyx Black for interior and exterior. Other exterior finishes come in Bronze, Brown, Brushed Silver, Garnet, Hunter Green and Clay. For hardware: Bronze, White, Antique Brass, Brass, Matte Black, Satin Nickel and Satin Chrome.

24

Midlothian Lifestyle | April 2020

Elite windows in the bedroom of a model home built by Covenant Building and Design

Andrew Stockton installs one of his windows

10 lights $2375

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April 2020 | Midlothian Lifestyle

25

GIVING BACK

SUNLIGHT SOLAR HELPS HOMEOWNERS REDUCE THEIR CARBON FOOTPRINTS WHILE ALSO TAKING AN ACTIVE ROLE IN SUPPORTING THE COMMUNITY

let the

sun shine in!

WOULD YOU LIKE LOWER ELECTRIC BILLS? HOW ABOUT CREDITS FROM YOUR UTILITY? DOES CARING FOR THE PLANET APPEAL TO YOU? Brandon Fuller wants to talk with you.

Fuller is operations manager for Sunlight Solar, a new local company helping Central Virginians go solar at home.

Every Sunlight Solar customer receives a customized, no-cost, zero-risk property analysis to assess the potential benefits of solar. Financing options include zero down and

zero out-of-pocket, and the company offers a generous warranty and tax incentive information.

“We make going solar easy,” Fuller said. “We’ll handle all the permitting. You just sign and save.”

While Fuller and owner Dominick Barlow just opened Sunlight Solar off Route 288 at Chester Road, they

are local to Chesterfield County. The lifelong friends met at Matoaca Elementary and were always interested in owning a business. Initially, they went into home building separately – Fuller as a custom builder, Barlow as a hardscapes designer specializing in decks, pools, fencing and home additions. While working in these fields, Fuller and Barlow helped another friend explore solar as a means to grow his business, and based on their research decided to launch Sunlight Solar together.

ARTICLE MARY ELLIN ARCH | PHOTOGRAPHY EMILY ALWOOD

26

Midlothian Lifestyle | April 2020

An app gives real-time system performance info

Eric Kothe's rooftop solar panels

Eric Kothe is an enthusiastic customer. Sunlight Solar equipped Kothe’s 4,000-square-foot home in Mechanicsville with solar in December, and the results were immediate. “We haven’t seen a bill since we put in the system,” he said. “We’re burning 75 kilowatts [of solar power] a day.” He uses an app to track performance.

For Kothe, a business owner, husband and father of two, the decision to go solar fit his energy-conscious, self-sufficient mindset – he drives a hybrid vehicle and installed a generator to protect his family from outages. “I’ve always been conscientious about energy,” he said. “You realize the world’s evolving, and how do you sustain a lifestyle and be mindful of the planet, and of costs?” Solar was the answer for Kothe.

His wooded 13-acre spread includes a tree-free area for his house and pool with unobstructed southern exposure. Purchasing the solar system in late 2019 netted Kothe a 30% federal tax credit, which he plans to apply to his home-improvement loan, as well as relief from monthly electric bills that ranged from $200 to $400 per month.

He pointed out that electricity costs will keep increasing, and climate trends indicate a continuing rise in temperatures. “The tax credit really makes the system seem like a no-brainer,” Kothe said.

Photovoltaic power source

“It’s worth every penny – and it just makes the house all that much more valuable.”

Sunlight Solar installs systems in existing homes like Kothe’s, and partners with a custom builder based in Virginia Beach to install solar into new construction. The company can install solar panels on light commercial buildings such as warehouses and stores, as well CONTINUED >

Solar panels atop Kothe's home Meters track system performance April 2020 | Midlothian Lifestyle

27

GIVING BACK (CONTINUED)

28

Midlothian Lifestyle | April 2020

Brandon Fuller and Dominick Barlow of Sunlight Solar with customer Eric Kothe on the roof of Kothe’s solar-equipped home in Mechanicsville

“WE WANT OUR BUSINESS TO BE A P I L L A R O F T H E C O M M U N I T Y, T O H E L P U P L I F T T H E C O M M U N I T Y.”

as mount panels on rooftops or on the ground, depending

community. Each year, Fuller shaves his head as part of a

on the needs of the site.

campaign to benefit St. Baldrick’s Foundation, a nonprofit

Working with its partner builder, Sunlight Solar installs

focusing on a cure for childhood cancer. Donations raise

systems across the state, but with a focus on Hampton

awareness and support research into new treatments,

Roads and the Peninsula, the Greater Richmond area, and

Fuller said.

Central Virginia.

Fuller and Barlow also intend to see Sunlight Solar

Sunlight Solar also is working to obtain its own Class

certified as a B Corporation. “B Corps” are a new kind of

A contractor’s license, which would allow it to develop its

business balancing purpose and profit, according to the

own crews in addition to working with install partners.

website bcorporation.net, produced by the nonprofit B

The ability to broker deals with other install crews allows

Lab, a global organization with offices in the United States,

Sunlight Solar to bring the best prices to its customers.

Canada, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. They are “a

Prices vary depending on the type of system, but with

community of leaders, driving a global movement of peo-

tax credits and energy savings, customers can expect to

ple using business as a force for good” that considers the

see savings immediately. “If you can afford your electric

impact of their decisions on workers, customers, suppliers,

bill, you can afford solar,” Kothe said.

community, and the environment, according to the site.

Fuller said a common misconception is that solar

Fuller and Barlow want to be part of the growing B Corp

installation takes a long time. While getting permits and

movement. “We feel that businesses have to take a long,

approvals may take a while, the actual installation is usu-

hard look at the impact they have on the community,” Fuller

ally completed quickly, in as little as a day and a half.

said. “We have a responsibility to do that. We want our busi-

“For the customer, it’s simple,” Fuller said. “There’s a

ness to be a pillar of the community, to help uplift it.”

proposal to sign, and then the homeowner is done.”

In addition to helping customers give back to the Earth, Sunlight Solar is committed to giving back to the

https://www.sunlightsolarvirginia.com/ https://www.stbaldricks.org/

April 2020 | Midlothian Lifestyle

29

APRIL

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

5

why it is there? As the oldest park

KITE DAY

must be accompanied by an adult. 1-3

in Chesterfield, Rockwood has quite a story to tell. Ages 10+, all under 12

River City Sportsplex

p.m. $7 http://www.chesterfield.

Pack a lunch and bring out the entire

gov/naturecenter

other fun activities for the kids to enjoy. 1-4 p.m. To register for a free kite, please call 748-1623. Supplies are limited. Rain-date: Sunday April

The Diamond

12

home-opener against the Bowie

EASTER ON PARADE

com/richmond/schedule/2020-04

Baysox (Baltimore Orioles affiliate).

6:35 p.m. start. https://www.milb.

Monument Avenue

12 1-4 p.m. Details: Mark Pinney, 748-

Head over to Monument Avenue for a

1992. Free. https://www.chester-

different kind of parade. Your typical

field.gov/calendar.aspx

parade format is flipped on its head each year, as vendors and attrac-

18 HISTORIC GARDEN WEEK IN VIRGINIA

11

tions remain in place, and spectators

HISTORY OF ROCKWOOD PARK

to see them all. Dress in your best

Each spring visitors are welcomed to over

pastel colors, perhaps don a large

250 of Virginia's most beautiful gardens,

Rockwood Park Nature Center

hat, and don’t forget to bring your

homes and landmarks during "America's

Did you know Rockwood Park used

dog! 1-5 p.m. https://www.event-

Largest Open House." This statewide

to be the site of two different mills?

crazy.com/Richmond-VA/events/

event provides an opportunity to see

Have you ever wondered about the

details/120864-Easter-on-Parade

unforgettable gardens and homes at the

large hole on the orange trail and

30

RICHMOND FLYING SQUIRRELS OPENING DAY The 2020 Richmond Flying Squirrels

family for a great day of kite flying.

There will be entertainment and

16

Midlothian Lifestyle | April 2020

parade around Monument Avenue

Various locations

peak of springtime. The Historic Garden

Week Guidebook may be purchased online. April 18-25, various times and locations. For details and daily schedule, visit. www.vagardenweek.org

19

22

the Little Sisters of the Poor, which

EARTH DAY 50 - WATER YOU DOING?

https://rvafrenchfoodfestival.com/

Pocahontas State Park

The Earth's surface is about 71%

RECREATIONAL TREE CLIMBING

water. Rangers at Pocahontas State Park are celebrating by inviting you

aids the elderly in Richmond. April 24th, 4-8 p.m.; April 25, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

25 STAR WARS: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK

Forest Hill Park

to take a deep dive into our relation-

Professional arborists from Riverside

ships with this precious resource.

Outfitters will take you to new heights. If

Explore the water cycle through

The Richmond Symphony will present

you ever enjoyed climbing trees, here’s

an interactive game, hit the trails

a full screening of Star Wars: Empire

your chance to really go up. Riverside

on a hike to see the lake, collect

Strikes Back live in concert at the Altria

Outfitters staff will assist you as you

micro-trash and test water qual-

Theater. Led by Guest Conductor

ascend into the canopies of trees using

ity. Activities for all ages. 2-4 p.m.

Keitaro

specialized tree-climbing equipment.

ht tps://w w w.dcr.virginia .gov/

Symphony will play Oscar®-winning

Ages 8 and older. Youth 8 - 13 must be

state-parks/park-events-list?s-

composer John Williams’ iconic score

accompanied by an adult. 1-3 p.m. $22

rchloc=PO&event t ype=all&B -

live as the film is projected on-screen.

http://www.chesterfield.gov/parks

Date=02/20/2020&E-

7:30 p.m. https://www.altriatheater.

Date=02/20/2021

com/events

21

Altria Theatre

Harada,

the

Richmond

RICHMOND EARTH DAY FESTIVAL Manchester and Mayo Islands

RVA Earth Day is a street festival pro-

24 FRENCH FOOD FESTIVAL

25 PARTY FOR THE PLANET Historic Tredegar

Commonwealth Catholic Charities

A family-friendly festival dedicated

tion, and fun. There are 200+ local

Do you love French food? Do you

to

food vendors, exhibitions, and artists

long to stroll through Paris? We

and sustainability. Come together

signed up for a day of earth friendly

can’t help you get there, but you’ll

with local music, food and drinks

viding eco-friendly resources, educa-

environmentally-friendly

living

p.m. https://keep-

feel transported to France and all

to ignite interest in the health and

virginiabeautiful.org/events-va/

its cuisine with Richmond’s French

well-being of our bodies, our city,

earth-day-festival-2/

Food Festival. This event benefits

CONTINUED >

fun!

Noon-7

April 2020 | Midlothian Lifestyle

31

APRIL

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR and our Earth. Highlights include:

5K; live music; craft beer, wine, and food trucks; kid-friendly activities;

community organizations, non-profits, artists and vendors; educational

walk on art

demos and activities. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. https://partyfortheplanetrva.org/

25

FALLING CREEK IRONWORKS ANNUAL EVENT: EXPLORE AMERICA’S FIRST IRONWORKS Falling Creek Ironworks Park

Enjoy a guided tour and learn about the importance of this industrial first.

Activities include exhibitors, classic car show, bounce house, children’s activities, and musical performances.

Explore the latest site improvements, view the newly restored Moore’s brick cottage, overlook and paved trails. Concessions available. Parking at

Bensley

Recreation

Center

with shuttles, Free. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. www.fallingcreekironworks.org

25 AN EVENING WITH DAN ROBERTS Central Library

Join author and radio personality Dan Roberts as he discusses his

IMPORTER OF HANDMADE ORIENTAL RUGS THOUSANDS OF RUGS IN STOCK OF ALL SIZES

new book “Master American History in One Minute a Day.” Dan Roberts is the creator the popular NPR radio series “A Moment in Time.” A book sale and signing will follow the program. Registration is required. Free.

All ages. 7-8:30 p.m. https://chesterfield.evanced.info/ signup/Calendar

9944 MIDLOTHIAN TNPK., RICHMOND 804.323.5540

We Make House Calls

Locally Owned and Operated For 50 Years 32

Midlothian Lifestyle | April 2020

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www.springarborliving.com April 2020 | Midlothian Lifestyle

33

FINANCIAL BUZZ

a r e yo u t a x - d i ve r s i f i e d ?

DIETZ FINANCIAL SERVICES CAN HELP YOU ENSURE A SECURE RETIREMENT THAT PRESERVES YOUR ASSETS FROM UNNECESSARY TAXES ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

PRETEND YOU’RE A CORN FARMER AND IT’S TIME TO PLANT

liabilities (Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security), it’s very likely you’ll

SEED CORN. The IRS shows up at your farm and offers you a

face much higher taxation rates on your retirement income, impact-

proposition: Pay taxes now on the seed corn at a really low rate,

ing your lifestyle and possibly causing you to run out of money.

or wait until the harvest and pay taxes on all of the kernels on

Most Americans save for retirement via a 401k plan through their

all of the ears of corn at much higher tax rates. Which would you

employer. The new tax law has reduced the benefit of deducting

choose? If you’re currently investing in a pre-tax 401k plan, you’ve cho-

“pre-tax” contributions from your income, providing less immediate

sen to pay tax on the whole harvest of corn. How will that affect your

tax relief than previously. The government only gets one shot at tax-

retirement lifestyle?

ing your income; therefore, you want to minimize taxes during your

While it may not feel like it, tax rates are at historic lows. With the monumental national debt and trillions of dollars of unfunded

lifetime, resulting in more spendable income.

Jeff Dietz, of Dietz Financial Services, feels strongly that most people are taking far too much needless market risk for too little reward, while also exposing too much of their future retirement income to taxes. Jeff can help you create a retirement plan that maximizes your tax-free income stream as opposed to having a fully taxable one. He can show you how to enjoy most of the gains of the stock market and bypass all of the losses. If you have college-bound children, he can show you how pay for that without sacrificing your retirement, keeping those assets out of view of financial aid applications, and even reducing the borrowing costs to a bare minimum.

Your retirement could last 30+ years, so the time to plan is NOW! Jeff would love to be of service to you and the “future you.”

Contact him today at 804-608-9775 or jeff@jeffdietzfinancial.com.

Be sure to request a complimentary copy of his Retirement Plan Strategy Checklist.

For full-service financial solutions and customized financial planning: Contact

Jeff

Dietz,

Dietz

jeff@jeffdietzfinancial.com Jeff Dietz, Dietz Financial Services

34

Midlothian Lifestyle | April 2020

Financial

Services,

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April 2020 | Midlothian Lifestyle

35

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