Midlothian, VA February 2019

FEBRUARY 2019

MidlothianLifestyle.com

YORK CREATIONS DEFINES PASSION POPULAR FOOD CREATIONS MADE RIGHT HERE IN RVA

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

FEBRUARY 2019 PUBLISHER

Jennifer Carter Sowers | jennifer.sowers@lifestylepubs.com SALES DIRECTOR

Christian Sowers | christian.sowers@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATORS

The Makers Issue

Blair Neher | blair.neher@lifestylepubs.com Tricia Norris | tricia.norris@lifestylepubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Amy David, Nakita Rowell-Stevens, Jennifer Carter Sowers

OH, THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY—IT’S SHORT, SWEET AND FILLED WITH SWEETS (THANKS FOR THE HANDOUT, HALLMARK). Valentine's Day is a bit of a gimmick for card companies, but at least it makes you reflect on who and what you love.

It only makes sense to meet makers this month, because if it is one thing we learned through these interviews, it's that they pour their heart and soul into their craft. We are excited to share several local stories about people who took a chance on a dream; to pivot in life and careers; and the creations they have brought to Midlothian, Richmond and well beyond along the way.

Meet Chris York, who reignited his childhood affection for building wooden crafts with his grandfather and launched York Creations right here in Midlothian. Then there's Brad Cooper, the founder of our very own Steam Bell Beer Works who was adamant to bring a craft brewery and entertainment venue home to Chesterfield. Lastly, learn about some amazing local food entrepreneurs creating unique flavors right here in RVA. We hope these pages, photos and stories inspire you to seek what you love.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

Finally, we would like to thank our readers, our advertising partners and all of

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

the kind words that have inspired us to be the "makers" of Midlothian Lifestyle.

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

We have enjoyed every minute of it and can't wait to be welcomed into your home

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

each and every month.

Happy Valentine's Day, Midlothian! We hope to see you around town!

EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTORS John Newman | Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Jennifer and Christian Sowers, Publishers Info@MidlothianLifestyle.com ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

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Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2019

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.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE FEBRUARY 2019

FEATURES 22 Passion Defined Midlothian’s Chris York’s Unique Wood Creations Have Quite a Following

28 Made in the RVA Local Food Creators Share Their Stories, Inspirations and Products

32 Steam Bell Brewery You Don’t Have to Go Far to Experience the Local Craft Brew Scene

28 22

42 Show S’More Love This Valentine’s Day The Shaved Duck Shares Their Most Popular Dessert Recipe

32

42

DEPARTMENTS 6

Lifestyle Letter

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Good Times

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Around Town

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22 Renovate & Refine 28 Local’s Choice 32 Locally Owned 37 DIY 40 Lifestyle Calendar 42 Culinary Creations

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GOOD TIMES

Mustaches for Kids Annual 'Stache Bash Mustaches for Kids held its annual 'Stache Bash on Nov. 30, 2018, at Triple Crossing Brewing Company. This year there were 173 Growers who raised $308,000 during the month of November. The charities receiving the raised funds include ASK Childhood Cancer Foundation, Greater Richmond SCAN, Children's Hospital Foundation, Feedmore, Friends Association for Children, Cameron K Gallagher Foundation and Friends of the Homeless.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAREN GAGE PHOTOGRAPHY

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Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2019

GOOD TIMES

Medical Home Plus Hosts Seventh Annual Uncork Hope Fundraiser Medical Home Plus hosted its Seventh Annual Uncork Hope Gala on Nov. 9, 2018, with more than 400 in attendance. The event featured live music, food, drink and a silent auction. The proceeds from this event benefited children with special needs and their families.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID PROETT PHOTOGRAPHY

Home Building Association of Richmond Holds Its Annual President's Dinner HBAR held its annual President's Dinner at the historic Jefferson Hotel on Dec. 6, 2018.

More than 350 home builders, trade partners, real estate professionals and developers were in attendance. Scott Sleeme of Mitchell Homes was inducted as the 2019 president, Shane Burnette of Schell Brother was honored for his contributions and service as the 2018 president, and other major award winners were announced.

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Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2019

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AROUND TOWN class-A office rentals at the Centerpointe Office Building at 1 Park West Circle.

Acclaim Business Suites provides short-term, month-to-month, six- or 12-month rates to businesses who don’t want to sign long-term commercial leases. Acclaim is more traditional than other co-working office spaces like Gather, Novel Co-Working and The Broad. These co-working spaces encourage collaborative work and open, shared areas, but Acclaim provides privacy and executive-level amenities for its members.

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BON AIR PROVISIONS SET TO BECOME CARDINAL STATE BUTCHERS Get ready! The owners of the wildly popular burger pop-up Cobra Burger have purchased Bon Air Provisions on Buford Road. The trio of Adam Musselman, Melville Johnson IV and Joshua Franklin are converting the current store into Cardinal State Butchers following a successful crowdfunding campaign launched on Kickstarter. Alongside the cases of meat, there will be more than a dozen beer taps and a limited wine selection. Cardinal State will also carry selected dry goods. Their focus will be on local farms and purveyors.

PALERMO TRATTORIA PIZZERIA HOLDS QUARTERLY WINE DINNERS For more than nine years, Palermo Trattoria Pizzeria on the west outpost of Westchester Commons has been providing Midlothian residents with homemade, delicious Italian food in a warm and friendly atmosphere. They are now offering five-course wine pairing dinners several times a year for $85 per person including gratuity. They recently held their most recent event on Dec. 6, 2018. Chef Gaspare Cruciata partnered with Massimo Bistocchi to taste, sip and savor VINEA wines from Italy paired with artistic dishes from the same region. The next event will be held in February 2019. Exact date announcement and to purchase

SHORT-TERM BUSINESS SUITES AVAILABLE IN MIDLOTHIAN A new owner has purchased Acclaim Business

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TRAVEL DESTINATION

(CON TI N U ED)

Did You Know?

A caldera is a large volcanic crater typically formed by a major eruption leading to the collapse of the mouth of a volcano. Forming the southernmost member of the Cyclades island group, Santorini is the remains of the Minoan eruption that, 3,600 years ago, destroyed a formerly single island and created the current caldera.

stay SUN ROCKS BOUTIQUE HOTEL Sun Rocks Boutique Hotel is considered one of Santorini’s most romantic hotels.

The elegant couples-only cliffside hideaway—named a Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice 2018 award winner— features luxe, minimalist rooms and suites carved into the side of a volcanic cliff featuring amazing caldera and sea views. SunRocks.gr Photo by Artiom Vallat on Unsplash

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Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2019

Traveling Foodie There are so many flavors to explore in Santorini! Some must-try Greek foods include tomato kefthedes (tomato fritters), saganaki (fried cheese in phyllo topped with honey, Santorini salad, baklava (phyllo filled with honey and chopped nuts), spanakopita (Greek spinach pie) and Greek fava.

dine CASA DI TE Just a short stroll from the Sun Rocks Boutique hotel is this restaurant dedicated to creating the perfect combination of flavors and atmosphere to create unique moments in Santorini. Ranked on Trip Advisor’s top 10 romantic restaurants in Santorini, Casa di Te is inspired by Greek modern cuisine, Mediterranean cuisine and a touch of local flavor. Start with steamed mussels with saffron and Assyrtiko wine, followed by sea bass fillet fricassee with greens and lemon sauce, and finish it off with Semolina halva in a kadaifi nest with vanilla ice cream and caramel syrup.

CasaDiTeSantorini.com

Photo by George Desipris on Unsplash

CONTINUED >

February 2019 | Midlothian Lifestyle

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TRAVEL DESTINATION

(CON TI N U ED)

experience SUNSET VIEWS

About 25 minutes up the coast is where you can catch sights of what people often refer to as arguably the best sunsets you’ll ever see. Catch some of the best panoramic views of Santorini from 15th-century Byzantine castle ruins.

Situated on the side of caldera cliffs, Oia village offers tons of breathtaking viewing spots. Be sure to get there well before sunset—because of the area’s sundown popularity, you’ll find crowds of people gathered on streets, rooftops and stairs anticipating the one-of-akind experience.

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Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2019

Photo by Tom Grimbert on Unsplash

Crowd-Pleaser Santorini sunsets are considered some of the most famous sunsets in the world, and Oia is one of the most famed viewing spots in Santorini. The Kasteli Agios Nikolaos is the most popular spot on the island for sunset viewing.

February 2019 | Midlothian Lifestyle

21

RENOVATE & REFINE

YORK

Creations

PASSION DEFINED ARTICLE NAKITA ROWELL-STEVENS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

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Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2019

“PASSION IS WHEN YOU PUT MORE ENERGY INTO SOMETHING THAN IS REQUIRED TO DO IT. It is more than just enthusiasm or excitement; passion is ambition that is materialized into action to put as much heart, mind, body and soul into something as is possible.”

– UrbanDictionary.com Passion is what makes Chris York’s wood creations stunning, unique and special.

York Creations' vision began right here in Midlothian almost five years ago when Chris’ wife of more than 11 years, Missy asked him to build a table for their eat-in kitchen. Her request transported him back to his childhood and the precious memories tinkering with wood and metal alongside his grandfather. Cutting, sanding, designing and creating a piece where countless memories would be made with his family reignited just how much he loved the process and art of building a one-of-a-kind piece.

After he finished what would be the heart of his family’s home, that farmhouse table became a conversation piece for friends and family.

Word of mouth grew about his attention to detail and exquisite work, and for the next few years, Chris freelanced, creating custom wood items by request. Following this success, he transitioned his talent into a full-time endeavor in the summer of 2018. York Creations does most of its work right here in Midlothian but has customers throughout the state of Virginia. While a majority of his business involves custom dining tables, his projects have included one-of-a-kind bed headboards, outdoor bars, coat racks, cutting boards and various other types of tables.

If you envision a custom wood piece for your home, Chris can bring it to life.

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February 2019 | Midlothian Lifestyle

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RENOVATE & REFINE

24

(CON TI N U ED)

Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2019

His expertise in wood grains helps guide the customer in making the best choice to suit their project and their budget.

Chris works mainly with oak and walnut. Oak has a nice, clean grain structure while walnut offers darker tones with flexibility in its color scheme. Each piece of wood has a history behind it, and Chris seeks to weave that originality into his work.

One of the joys of creating his masterpieces is working with his hands while enjoying the solitude of his work space.

“I can just forget about the outside world, and when I’m done, I have a finished product I’m proud of that is going to someone who will equally appreciate it,” Chris says.

His biggest inspiration, however, is being an example to his boys, Hudson and Asher, ages 2 and 4, who like to join him when he is working in his shop.

“For me, it’s about family and being a role model to my boys, like my grandfather was for me.”

YorkCreations.com

February 2019 | Midlothian Lifestyle

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Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2019

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LOCAL’S CHOICE

Matt’s Dirty Pickles MIDLOTHIAN NATIVE MATT RAY NEVER IMAGINED

Made in the RVA

HIS PICKLING HOBBY WOULD TURN INTO A THRIVING BUSINESS, LET ALONE A FULL-TIME JOB. You could say his company, Matt’s Dirty Pickles, is kind of a big “dill” around here.

A former Chesterfield County employee working with individuals with disabilities, Matt realized he and his wife could never eat all the cucumbers in his flourishing garden. After a little research and tinkering with a variety of herbs and spices, he started pickling the cucumbers and testing them out among his family and friends.

In May 2015, Matt quit his job to pursue his pickling passion. Starting out selling jalapeño bacon and regular dill, Matt’s Dirty Pickles now sells five regular flavors in chips

ARTICLE AMY DAVID

and spears including classic dill, jalapeño dill, habanero

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

bread and butter, bourbon bread and butter, and Triple X Heat—which is made with a Carolina Reaper pepper from Midlothian pepper producer Josh’s Jungle. He also offers two seasonal items: dilly beans, and sweet and spicy relish.

After creating a basic vinegar brine and adding several spices and water, Matt lets them sit for just a few days. Once pickled to perfection, he packs them and heads to the South of the James Farmers Market every Saturday.

“I learned that from a 75-year-old woman," he says of the pickling process. "She told me you don’t need to let them sit for a month. A day or two later, they’re fine to eat.

Of course, the longer they sit, the better they taste.”

Matt has expanded to 25 retailers including Kindred Spirits Brewing, Muse Me Decor, Lazy Daisy, Ashland Meat Company, Haley’s Honey Meadery in Hopewell, and all the Tazza Kitchen restaurants, which use his bread and butter pickles for their bloody marys.

“The bourbon bread and butter is our top seller,” he says, adding that it also won Best-in-Show and Best Bread and Butter Pickle at this year’s Pickled and Fermented Festival at Center of the Universe Brewing in Ashland.

Due to ever-increasing demand, Matt has since left his cucumber garden behind and switched to Loving’s Produce who provides 800 to 1,000 pounds of cucumbers a month to keep Matt’s customers happy. He’s also ramped up production and recently built a commercial kitchen in his backyard.

Pickle lovers in the area can purchase pints for $7 and quarts for $11. Orders can be placed online or picked up at Matt’s Midlothian home if they can’t wait for the weekend farmers market. The dedicated business owner, who drives to all the retailers himself, will also make deliveries for orders over $20.

To place an order or for a special request, message Matt on his Facebook page: Facebook.com/MattsDirtyPickles

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Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2019

Andrea Hubell Photography

Texas Beach Bloody Mary Mix It’s time to talk about one of the stars of brunch. No, not eggs or pancakes or mimosas, but the bloody mary. It comes in many forms and can be doctored up to suit your taste with a variety of mixers, hot sauces, spices, and condiments ranging from celery to pickled peppers, shrimp, bacon, and even lobster claws.

One mix that needs no special tweaks or spices—or just about anything other than a few olives and vodka—is Texas Beach Bloody Mary Mix. The Richmond brand was created by college friends Austin Green and Greg White in early 2015, and its thick, peppery, savory blend has been satisfying Richmond brunchers and beyond ever since.

After bartending around Richmond, the two William & Mary grads noticed the lack of quality bloody mary mixes in the market and decided to tinker around with their own recipes. Austin’s recipe, a briny, tomato-based mix with a peppery kick, stood out and became the flagship product.

Named after one of their favorite parts of Richmond down on the banks of the James River, Texas Beach Bloody Mary Mix gets its robust flavor profile from cumin and turmeric. Austin’s olive brine and Pasture chef Jason Alley’s pickle brine add a little tang, and fresh horseradish and Sriracha chili hot sauce give it that extra bite. The mix, which won Best New Beverage at the 2016 Food and Beverage Expo, can be found in more than 25 restaurants and 60 stores in Richmond such as Saison Market, Ellwood Thompson’s and Tom Leonard’s, along with shops in Charlottesville, Hampton Roads and Maryland.

In addition to shops around town, you can buy the mix online for $39 for three 32-ounce bottles and $23 for three 10-ounce bottles. The logo, created by Rob Wooten, who joined the startup not long after Greg and Austin started stacking shelves and brunch tables, features dancing skeletons along the James with two canoeing in the background that can get just about anyone in the spirit no matter if you’re drinking at the river or having it alongside your favorite greasy spoon dish. Next time you dine out for brunch, you know what to order to make it a bloody good one.

TexasBeachBloodyMary.com

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February 2019 | Midlothian Lifestyle

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LOCALS CHOICE

(CON TI N U ED)

Wild Earth Fermentation Funky, fun and fermented. That’s the vibe that Richmond’s Wild Earth Fermentation gives off with its line of raw, naturally fermented products sourced from local and organic Virginia farms. Launched in 2016 by Bri McCarthy and Grant Collier, the startup Stephanie Dennehy Photography

carries several different sauerkrauts, kimchis, hot sauces, an eggplant spread and chow chow. Whether it's the garden spice or lemon beet sauerkraut, bok choy kimchi or aubergine spread, Bri and Grant are aiming to provide Richmonders with products that are not only healthy but also taste delicious.

The two decided to venture further into the world of fermentation after ditching their jobs in D.C. in 2015 to travel to different farms around the country on bikes. Grant, who was involved with environmental advocacy and farm internships in college, along with Bri, participated in the World Wide Opportunity for Organic Farms (WWOOF) program, which pairs volunteers with organic farmers for hands-on experience in exchange for room and board.

Their time spent in the program fueled their passion for sustainable food and fermented products, so the following year, the couple launched Wild Earth Fermentation and continue to live and run it in Fulton Hill. Striving to work with and support local and regional farmers, Bri and Grant have recruited Dragonfly Farms, Cumberland and Frank Community Farm and more to source all the vegetables for their fermented products. You can buy Wild Earth Fermentation’s products at South of the James Farmers Market, Birdhouse Market, Belmont Butchery, Bon Air Provisions, Good Foods Grocery and Union Market.

See the full list of locations and product descriptions at WildEarthFermentation.com.

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Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2019

Three Sisters Cheese Straws Three Sisters Cheese Straws are a Southern staple that have been locally made and sold for nearly a decade.

Started by sisters Isabel Bates, Peggy Crowley and Alice Frankovitch, the company makes one small snack, but it’s buttery, spicy, cheesy and addicting.

The delectable treats, which consist of sharp cheddar cheese, flour, butter, salt and spices, are a recipe passed down from their grandmother and are still made using an antique cookie press, just as she did.

Three Sisters Cheese Straws come in jalapeño cheddar cheese and savory cheddar cheese flavors and can be found at Stella's Grocery, Tuckahoe Seafood, Libbie Market, Ellwood Thompson’s, Little House Green Grocery, Shields Market, Bon Air Provisions and Galley To Go around town.

This fall, the business was taken over by Ann Taliaferro, Peanut Kempe and Elizabeth Crowley (Peggy Crowley’s daughter-in-law). The three friends bought the business in the spring—after the original sisters decided to close the business last year—to carry on a Richmond staple and cherished recipe.

Since taking over, they have ramped up online sales and are now in more than 30 markets and stores across Virginia, Pennsylvania, North Carolina and South Carolina. Purchase a box of Three Sisters Cheese Straws for $5.85 or a gift tin for $22.99 at 3SistersCheeseStraws.com.

Sarah Der Photography February 2019 | Midlothian Lifestyle

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LOCALLY OWNED

“I LOVE THE BEER INDUSTRY. I LOVE THE PEOPLE. THIS IS WHERE I NEED TO BE,” SAYS BRAD, WHO OPERATES STEAM BELL BEER WORKS IN MIDLOTHIAN.

Full Steam Ahead BRAD COOPER BRINGS CRAFT BREWS HOME TO MIDLOTHIAN ARTICLE AMY DAVID | PHOTOGRAPHY STEAM BELL BREWERY

BRAD COOPER’S AFFECTION FOR BEER BEGAN IN HIS EARLY 20S WHEN HE BEGAN HOMEBREWING ON HIS PARENTS’ STOVE. We’ll assume he didn’t hate it before, but that’s when he took it on as a hobby. He was a member of a local homebrew club, volunteered at Hardywood Park Craft Brewery’s first facility on Ownby Lane when it opened in 2011, and even worked part-time there for a brief period before deciding he needed to venture out on his own.

“I love the beer industry. I love the people. This is where I need to be,” says Brad, who operates Steam Bell Beer Works in Midlothian.

After spending a few years planning, saving and raising funds, Brad signed the lease on a rustic space on Oak Lake Boulevard off Genito Road in 2015, and the following summer in 2016, he opened Steam Bell Beer Works, the first stand-alone production brewery for Chesterfield County.

“I really fell in love with the Oak Lake Business Park because of its central location to nearby subdivisions and businesses; it just made sense,” he says.

And while most home brewers were taking their dream and planting roots in bustling Scott’s Addition or right in the heart of the city, the Chesterfield native wanted to be where he grew up.

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Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2019

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February 2019 | Midlothian Lifestyle

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LOCALLY OWNED

(CON TI N U ED)

/steam bell brewery “I SAW AN OPPORTUNITY TO NOT ONLY CREATE THIS PRODUCTION BREWERY BUT ALSO CREATE AN ENTERTAINMENT VENUE FOR THIS AREA. I HAD BEEN LOOKING AT DIFFERENT LOCATIONS AROUND THE STATE, BUT I KIND OF KEPT COMING BACK TO CHESTERFIELD.”

Brad Cooper, owner of Steam Bell Beer Works in Midlothian

STEAM BELL BREWS: MOST POPULAR NO. 1: Grisette Farmhouse Saison.

Saison is a pale ale that is highly carbonated, fruity, spicy and often bottle-conditioned.

"I wanted to do something in my hometown.

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MOST POPULAR NO. 2:

duction brewery but also create an entertainment

Cucumber Hibiscus Gose.

venue for this area. I had been looking at different

Gose is a top-fermented beer that

locations around the state, but I kind of kept coming

originated in Goslar, Germany. It is usually

back to Chesterfield.”

brewed with at least 50 percent of the

Decked out with reclaimed wood, tiny twinkle lights,

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an eye-catching wooden bar and taps, and photos of barrel-makers working with steam bells on the walls,

WINTER FAVORITE:

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Tiramisu Stout

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NEW RELEASES IN 2019:

when you need to unwind.

Double Chocolate Tiramisu Stout,

Operating on a 10-barrel system, Steam Bell

Margarite Gose, Ginger Gose

Beer Works has about 20 beers on tap at any given time with a focus on sours and farmhouse ales. The brewery’s original flagship, the Grisette Farmhouse Saison, is still the highest seller, along

34

Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2019

with a Cucumber Hibiscus Gose, made with cucumbers from Skin Quarter Farm Market in Moseley.

"We do what we can to use a lot of the local agricultural products in our beers,” Brad says.

In the winter, Brad says the brewery’s Tiramisu Stout is a fan favorite, so much so, they have released several variants including coconut, raspberry, maple, a bourbon barrel

walk on art

version, and this February, they will release a double chocolate Tiramisu Stout.

Earlier this year, Steam Bell started distributing beer to Northern Virginia through Brown Distributing, expanding its evergrowing portfolio in the wholesale market.

“We’ve been kind of organically getting into that market now, but in the next month or so we will start pushing it a little bit harder

Erwin Franke’s WORLD OF RUGS, INC

and doing some events up there.”

Steam Bell also has recently added 3,000 square feet of space to its 6,000-squarefoot facility for production and storage

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

purposes and added a line to start canning beers for both Steam Bell and its sister brewery, Canon and Draw Brewing Company in the fan.

Steam Belll Beer Works is located at 1717 Oak Lake Blvd. and open Wednesday

9944 MIDLOTHIAN TNPK., RICHMOND 804.323.5540

We Make House Calls

Locally Owned and Operated For 49 Years

through Sunday. SteamBell.beer February 2019 | Midlothian Lifestyle

35

DIY

a handmade valentine’s day

MAKE IT FEEL LIKE AN EXTRA SPECIAL AT-HOME VALENTINE’S DAY THIS YEAR WITH THOUGHTFUL TOUCHES FROM THE HEART—AND HANDS

CONTINUED >

February 2019 | Midlothian Lifestyle

37

DIY

38

(CON TI N UED)

Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2019

UN

From-Scratch Pasta Yield: 1 pound WHAT YOU NEED

2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting 4 large eggs WHAT YOU DO

1. Mound the flour in the center of a work surface with a well in the middle. Crack the eggs into the well and beat with a fork until smooth, then work flour into eggs with the fork. Use a bench scraper to work in the rest of the flour a little at a time. When the flour is incorporated, form the dough with your hands into a rounded mass for kneading. Lightly dust your workspace with flour and knead dough about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Cover dough with a bowl or plastic wrap and rest 1 1/2 hours, or chill overnight.

2. To roll by hand, flour a clean work surface. Vigorously roll dough to a very thin circle and roll constantly with even pressure as it stretches for several minutes until as thin as possible, almost translucent.

3. To cut by hand, lightly fold sheets one at a time into thirds and cut to desired thickness. Recipe from MarthaStewart.com.

DEUX

Dark Chocolate Truffles WHAT YOU NEED

1/2 cup heavy cream 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1 cup cocoa powder, for dusting WHAT YOU DO

1. Bring the cream to just a simmer in a saucepan over low heat. Pour the cream over the chocolate in a bowl and let stand about 10 minutes to melt the chocolate. Add the vanilla, stir until smooth and set aside to cool for 1 hour at room temperature.

2. Beat chocolate at medium speed until thick and light-colored. Spread over the bottom of a baking dish, smooth and refrigerate 2 hours until firm.

3. Pour cocoa powder onto a deep plate or shallow bowl, and using a melon baller or small ice cream scoop, scoop out balls of chocolate. Roll in cocoa powder until coated and transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Recipe from FoodNetwork.com.

TROIS

Relaxing Bath Salt Blend WHAT YOU NEED

16 ounces Bokek Dead Sea Salt 20 drops lavender essential oil WHAT YOU DO

In a mixing bowl, add drops of the essential oil to the bath salt and mix well; store in a glass jar. Add 1/3 to 1/2 cup of the scented salts to a bath for a relaxing experience. SeaSalt.com

February 2019 | Midlothian Lifestyle

39

FEBRUARY

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

FEB 1 - MAR 3 HUCK & TOM & THE MIGHTY MISSISSIPPI

VA Rep Children's Theater at Willow Lawn

This Virginia Rep original adaptation brings Mark Twain’s two classic

musical instruments to highlight the per-

life of Scott Zebrowski and helps

formative aspect of these extraordinary

create opportunities for people to

works of art. VMFA.museum

recover. Proceeds from the event will create the Scott Zebrowski

FEB 8 - MAR 3

Scholarship Fund at the McShin

ONCE: THE MUSICAL

desperately seeking recovery from

recovery services to individuals

Virginia Repertory Theatre

substance use disorders and a new

American novels into one fast-paced,

Described as one of the most original

way of life. The event will feature

foot-stompin’ musical adventure down

musicals of our time, Once follows

former NFL player Luke Wollet as

the Mississippi. Huckleberry Finn

a classic tale of boy-meets-girl but

the keynote speaker, a tribute by

and Tom Sawyer spring to life along

through the eyes of two musicians and

Scott's sister Jill, testimonies from

with familiar characters Jim, Becky

the community they bring together

McShin staff and alumni, a silent

Thatcher, Aunt Polly, and all the res-

on the streets of Dublin. Based on the

auction and heavy hors d'oeuvres.

idents and rapscallions of Hannibal,

2007 movie and winner of the Academy

McShin.org

Missouri, as they explore the majestic

Award for Best Original Song (“Falling

river that defined their lives, tested their

Slowly”), Once features a cast that acts

souls and carried their spirits into the

as its own orchestra to tell an enchant-

heart of America. VA-Rep.org

ing and emotionally captivating story

FEB 1 - MAR 2 CYRANO DE BERGERAC

Swift Creek Mill Playhouse

Rostand's masterpiece tells the true but fictionalized story of the gifted poet,

about love, humanity and the redemptive power of music. VA-Rep.org

21 10,000 MANIACS The Tin Pan

10,000 Maniacs has covered plenty

12-17

of ground in its 35-plus years,

WAITRESS THE MUSICAL

native band. But the sound and spirit

from international stardom to their current status as a cornerstone alter-

Altria Theater

of 10,000 Maniacs remains consis-

musician, soldier and duelist who is kept

Inspired by Adrienne Shelly's beloved

tent. The live shows embrace their

from expressing his love for the beautiful

film, Waitress tells the story of Jenna,

entire catalog, and the lineup is still

Roxanne by the shame he feels about

a waitress and expert pie maker.

anchored by four of the six original

his rather large nose! Alternately funny,

Jenna dreams of a way out of her

members. TinPanRVA.com

dramatic, witty, touching and tragic,

small town and loveless marriage. A

Ms. Frankel's adaptation makes this

baking contest in a nearby county

wonderful story accessible to everyone.

and the town's new doctor may

SwiftCreekMill.com

offer her a chance at a fresh start, while her fellow waitresses offer

21 CASTING CROWNS: ONLY JESUS TOUR

1-24

their own recipes for happiness. But

CONGO MASKS: MASTERPIECES FROM CENTRAL AFRICA

and courage to rebuild her own life.

With more than 11 million records

Features original music and lyrics

sold, Casting Crowns has held the

by six-time Grammy nominee Sara

position of Billboard’s top-selling act

Bareilles. AltriaTheater.com

in Christian music since 2007. The

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

Jenna must summon the strength

This innovative and visually compelling exhibition presents nearly 140 masks from the vast Congo region of Africa, known today as the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Drawn from the finest and most comprehensive private collection, these masks from the 18th, 19th and

40

Foundation, providing residential

Altria Theatre

band continues to impact audiences

16

with their powerful live shows, hav-

MCSHIN FOUNDATION’S SECOND ANNUAL “A NIGHT FOR SCOTT”

stone of more than 100,000 child

ing performed for nearly 7 million fans and has crossed over a milesponsorships

generated

through

Salisbury Country Club

Casting Crowns’ concerts. For more

20th centuries are combined with film

The McShin Foundation's Second

information on the Only Jesus Tour,

footage, field photographs, maps and

Annual A Night for Scott honors the

visit AltriaTheater.com.

Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2019

23

There are also multiple wine pair-

THE RICHMOND FORUM PRESENTS DR. SANJAY GUPTA

for

ing dinners at various restaurants

Altria Theater

throughout

Richmond

reserved

available

purchase.

Visit

VirginiaWineExpo.com for tickets and more information.

A practicing neurosurgeon, Dr. Sanjay Gupta is also a medical correspondent who has reported from the world’s crisis points: post-hurricane Puerto Rico, the West

African

Ebola

outbreak,

26 CARITAS CELEBRITY SERVE DINNER Sine Irish Pub & Restaurant

earthquakes in Nepal and Haiti, the

This annual Celebrity Serve Dinner

2004 tsunami in Southeast Asia,

welcomes local celebrities who

Hurricane Katrina, the war in Iraq,

turn the tables and serve YOU to

and a post-9/11 New York City. At

raise important funds to support

the Richmond Forum, Dr. Gupta

CARITAS. Enjoy a chef-prepared

will share his first-hand experience

dinner and spend the evening

on the dangers and importance of

in a laughter-filled environment

reporting from locations where the

all in the spirit of supporting a

health of thousands is at stake. Dr.

great cause. Among the celebrity

Gupta will deliver a speech and

servers are Chesterfield County

participate in an audience Q&A.

Sheriff Karl Leonard, Dr. Joseph Casey,

Chesterfield

County

23

Administrator Lisa Schaffner of

RICHMOND ANIMAL LEAGUE’S SUGAR & SPICE SIXTH ANNUAL COCKTAIL PARTY FUNDRAISER

Bosko at dbosko@caritasva.org

UNOS and Juan Conde of WRIC. To purchase

tickets,

contact Debi

or 804.358.0964 x302.

Willow Oaks Country Club

Join us for an evening featuring samplings of sweet and savory delights, a silent auction, fun and games, and Small Art with Big Heart. Event tickets include tastings from local restaurants and an open bar. All proceeds to benefit RAL.

FEB 26 - MAR 3 VIRGINIA WINE EXPO

Main Street Station Richmond

The

2019

Virginia

Wine

Expo

signature events will be held at spectacular Main Street Station

We are always accepting sub-

in historic Shockoe Bottom. Swirl,

missions for events you'd like to

sniff, taste and discuss hundreds

see included in our Calendar sec-

of bottles of wine from Virginia

tion. Submissions are accepted

and the 2019 guest regions, as well

via

as dozens of spirits from Virginia.

MidlothianLifestyle.com.

the

Contact

Us

tab

at February 2019 | Midlothian Lifestyle

41

CULINARY CREATIONS

Show S’More Love T h i s Va l e n t i n e ’s D a y THE SHAVED DUCK SHARES THEIR MOST POPULAR DESSERT RECIPE RECIPE BY JOE KMETZ | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Shaved Duck S’more s YIELD: 7 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

For the Meringue:

For the Graham Cracker Crumble:

+ 1 1/2 cups white sugar

+ 1 cup graham cracker, crumbled

+ 6 egg whites

+ 1/4 cup brown sugar

+ 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

+ 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

+ 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

+ 2 tablespoons melted butter

DIRECTIONS

+ 1 teaspoon vanilla

1. Bring 2 cups of water to a simmer in a medium pot. 2. Combine sugar,

+ 2 tablespoons white sugar

egg whites, salt and cream of tartar into metal bowl. 3. Reduce the heat of

+ 1 dash salt

DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 350 F. 2. Butter an 18-by-13-inch cookie sheet. 3. In a small bowl, mix together crumbled graham crackers, brown sugar and cinnamon.

4. Combine melted butter and vanilla, then stir into graham cracker mixture.

5. Spread evenly in prepared pan. Sprinkle white sugar and salt over the top.

6. Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until lightly browned.

the pot and place the bowl over the steam. Whisk egg whites mixture lightly until a digital or candy thermometer inserted into the mixture reads 160 F, 6 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat immediately. 4. Use whisk attachment on mixer and whisk on high speed until egg whites are cool and stiff peaks form, about 3 minutes. Mixture should hold peaks effortlessly and start balling up around the whisk attachment while appearing silky, shiny and pure white.

5. Use meringue immediately. *NOTE: It will hold its shape without separating for about a week in the refrigerator if you have leftovers.

For the Chocolate Mousse: + 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

TO ASSEMBLE S'MORES:

+ 5 tablespoons boiling water

1. Place chocolate mousse mold in center of plate. 2. Place meringue on half

+ 4 eggs, yolks and whites separated

of the chocolate mold; use piping bag to enhance presentation. 3. Sprinkle

DIRECTIONS 1. Grind chocolate chips in a blender, using short pulses. 2. Add boiling water and blend to melt the chocolate. 3. Add egg yolks, one at a time, blending well after each. 4. Transfer chocolate mixture to bowl. 5. In a medium bowl, beat egg whites with electric mixer until stiff peaks form.

6. Fold egg whites into chocolate mixture gently. 7. Pour the mousse into a 4-inch round cake mold. 8. Chill in refrigerator until set (2-3 hours).

42

Midlothian Lifestyle | February 2019

graham cracker on other half and around chocolate. 4. Use a baker's torch to char meringue. 5. Enjoy!If you don't want to make at home, visit The Shaved Duck for this delectable chocolate treat!

15408 WC Commons Way Midlothian, VA

TheShavedDuckRestaurant.com

Riverstone Wealth Advisory Group A private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc.

Simplifying your retirement planning Riverstone Wealth Advisory Group, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., is dedicated to providing you with a positive client experience.

One that’s both pleasant and productive. We use a comprehensive approach to financial planning, tailored to your unique circumstances and goals.

Meet our Advisors

Kevin Williamson, CFP® Private Wealth Advisor

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Call or email our Client Service Specialist, Susan Kandler at 804.560.9215 or via email at susan.kandler@ampf.com.

14350 Sommerville Ct Midlothian, VA 23113-6838 www.rstonewag.com The Compass is a trademark of Ameriprise Financial, Inc. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., a registered investment adviser.

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