Midlothian, VA September 2021

S E P TE M B E R 2 02 1

THE STYLE ISSUE

LI F E + C U LTU R E AU T H EN T I C , APPROAC HAB L E AN T H O N Y AN T O I N E A R T S + C U LTU R E I NSPI RI N G K I D S T H RO U G H BAL L E T R E A L E S TAT E C OAS TAL C HARM , S O U T H ERN S O CIAB I L I T Y

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

SEPTEMBER 2021 PUBLISHER

Aaron Swart | aaron.swart@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Mary Ellin Arch | maryellin.arch@lifestylepubs.com

Welcome to September, Midlothian!

Steven Casupanan | steven.casupanan@lifestylepubs.com

MIDLO, SEPTEMBER IS FOR STYLE!

B&G Marketing | mholmes@bandgmarket.com

Fall is coming and we’re settling into new schedules as hot weather gives way to

Meghan Butcher, The Dirty Blonde Stylist thedirtyblondestylist@gmail.com

cooler temperatures. New beginnings with school, work and community involvement lie just ahead.

ACCO UNT MANAGER

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

PUBLISHER A SSISTANT

AD DESIGNER

Matthew Endersbe

In keeping with our Style theme this month, we have several features taking the runway that go beyond the usual definition of the word. We've touched on the fashion side of "style" but also explored styles of art, room decor, work, success and living life to the fullest. As always, we continue to look into the countless ways our local influencers bring their personal brand’s style to life as they serve you, our readers, and the RVA community.

L AYO UT DESIGNER

Kelsey Proctor CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Melissa Oefelein, Meghan Butcher, M. Katherine Fisher CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Hunter Henkel

Lastly, we’re super excited to bring aboard our newest team member, Steven Casupanan, as our Account Manager; turn the pages and learn more about him in the Around Town section, and send him a warm welcome!

The best is yet to come, and we’re so grateful to serve you!

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

Aaron Swart, Publisher

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

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

ON THE COVER Anthony Antoine PHOTOGRAPHY BY HUNTER HENKEL PHOTOGRAPHY 4

Midlothian Lifestyle | September 2021

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

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.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE SEPTEMBER 2021

FEATURES 16 From 0 to 100 in 45 Days Richmond Academy of Ballet found its footing fast with a focus on classical dance

22 Authentic, Approachable Anthony NBC12 news anchor Anthony Antoine exudes kindness, optimism and sincerity on and off the air

28 Coastal Charm Greer Jones brings her brand of southern sociability and sophistication to her real estate business

34 Sisters Doin’ It For Themselves Trio of friends use wainscoting,

16 22

wallpaper and wild colors to create unforgettable living spaces

28

34

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

14

Local Experiences

16

Locally Owned

28 Local Limelight 30 Lifestyle Calendar 34 DIY

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GOOD TIMES

Bumblebee Jamboree Salutes Pollinators Master Gardeners Sidney Newton, Lela Martin, and Marti Miller organized the 2021 Bumblebee Jamboree, held June 21–27 during National Pollinator Week. This year’s celebration was a self-guided stroll along the Pollinator Path at Maymont’s Children’s Farm. The event was hosted by the Chesterfield County Master Gardeners of the Virginia Cooperative Extension. For details and more photos: https://www.facebook.com/bumbleejamboree

County Celebrates July with Fireworks and Festival de Musica Thousands of Midlothian and Chesterfield residents turned out in July for the county's Independence Day and Festival de Musica celebrations. Both festivals had been canceled in 2020 due to COVID-19. PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHESTERFIELD COUNTY.

8

Midlothian Lifestyle | September 2021

Eliza Hope Celebrates Graduation with End-of-Year Family Event The Eliza Hope Foundation End-of-Year celebration brought Richmond families together in June for a day of food, fun and recognitions. Eliza Hope provides educational support for children and families living with autism spectrum disorders. The foundation's Richmond center offers services, teachers, and equipment to help meet the unique learning needs of these children. PHOTOS COURTESY KRISTOPHER KIDD.

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

9

AROUND TOWN

NEW PORTAL FACILITATES EASIER COMMUNICATION WITH COUNTY

attempts, and life coaching for those who feel stuck in their lives. The organization is run by Ames Hart,

Chesterfield County has established a new tool

a coach, trainer, public speaker, poet, and survivor

for residents to use in offering their opinions, report-

who has trained more than 8,500 people through

ing concerns, and obtaining access to a variety of

Enter Hope programming.

county information. Citizens can use the new Public Portal to report fraud or abuse, provide feedback on county services, and file complaints. To access the Public Portal: chesterfield.gov/3716/Report

recognition

of

September

as

GATHER PARTNERING WITH FILM FESTIVAL Gather, the co-working space with four

SUICIDE PREVENTION PROGRAM TO BE OFFERED SEPT. 21 In

To learn more: enterhope.net

locations in RVA, is partnering with the 2021 Richmond International Film and Music Festival Suicide

during this year's 10th anniversary celebration.

Prevention Awareness Month, the evidence-based

Specifically, Gather is the host of the annual

best practices workshop, LivingWorks’ safeTALK, is

FLOW Film and Music Panel Series, to be held at

being offered Sept. 21 at Gather Midlothian.

Gather's Art’s District location.

The safeTALK workshop involves 3.5 hours

RIFF has been a staple in the city as a local

of training that teaches participants how to identify

spotlight of arts and creativity, bringing a six-

if someone is having thoughts of suicide, and then

day cavalcade of more than 150 cutting-edge,

connect the person to appropriate help. This train-

award-winning films from 20 countries – plus 20

ing, usually $75 a person, is being offered by Enter

bands, panels, and signature community events

Hope, LLC, in partnership with Gather Midlothian,

at venues across Richmond. The 2021 festival

free for Gather members and $15 for non-members.

features several headliner premieres with special

The workshop will run from 12:30 to 4 p.m. Light

guest invitations to filmmakers and cast to present

refreshments will be provided. Registration is limited to 30 people. For more information and to register, go to enterhope.net/workshops.

Enter Hope, LLC, offers suicide intervention and prevention training using curriculum developed by

their films during festival week.

The festival runs Sept. 7-12. See the schedule and order tickets at rvafilmfestival.com. Gather members can enjoy 15% off all tickets and VIP badges; check with Gather staff for details.

LivingWorks Education, consultation for those navigating situations surrounding suicide and suicide

10

Midlothian Lifestyle | September 2021

CONTINUED >

SEPTEMBER PERFORMANCE LINEUP! Catch an upcoming show this summer at The Perkinson Center for the Arts & Education’s 20,500 square-foot state-of-the-art performing and visual arts center. Don’t forget to enroll in a class or immerse yourself in local art at the Baxter and Elaine Perkinson Gallery — featuring the beautiful work of oil paint artist Terry Lacy!

CCPL Acoustic Series, featuring live bluegrass from Tom Mindte and Friends September 2, 2021

Sonic Butterfly, an immersive chromatic harp experience September 3, 2021

For more information or to purchase tickets, view our event schedule online! perkinsoncenter.org | 804-748-5555 | 11810 Centre Street, Chester, VA 23831

AROUND TOWN

MIDLOTHIAN LIFESTYLE ADDS AN ACCOUNT MANAGER Midlothian

Lifestyle

Publisher

Aaron Swart has announced the addition of Steven Casupanan to the staff as Account Manager.

In the new role, Steven will work alongside Swart and Editor Mary Ellin Arch to engage in business development and help forge new partnerships for the magazine.

Steven is a Richmond native and grew up in Midlothian. Upon graduating from Virginia Tech, he launched his career in healthcare IT in Richmond. Networking with business owners locally and nationwide sparked his entrepreneurial spirit, and he co-founded a local nonprofit (now serving nationally) that benefits those with neuromuscular disorders for which he continues to serve as vice president.

Steven

and

Aaron

became

acquainted while they each took a break in the Gather Midlothian workspace. A brief conversation revealed mutual interests and a desire to collaborate to benefit both the magazine and Steven's nonprofit.

"I have a genuine appreciation for Richmond and how it's evolved over

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Midlothian Lifestyle | September 2021

the years, and for Midlothian in particular," Steven said. "Midlothian Lifestyle adds quality and value to the community, and I'm eager to help promote the magazine and Midlothian."

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LOCAL EXPERIENCES

STYLE FALL GIVES US ALL THE FEELS FOR FASHION, FAMILY, AND FINDING TIME TO RELAX. Whether you're looking to pamper yourself, renew your wardrobe, or gather the family for updated photos, we have you covered! Local Fashion Finds and Relax & Unwind reported by Meghan Butcher, The Dirty Blonde Stylist; Photo Shoot Locations reported by Mary Ellin Arch.

RELAX AND UNWIND + Escape Nail and Spa - a great price for such a luxury experience complete with fruit trays and champagne. + Kim Casey’s Haircology Studio Salon - Kim is so personable and fabulous at what she does. Everything you want in a hair stylist!

5005 Craig Rath Blvd, Ste 1, Midlothian, VA 23112 + Bliss Nail Lounge - Gorgeous environment and gorgeous nails every time! + Allure Nails - Fabulous manicures speak for themselves! + Glam Life Beauty Bar - Lash extensions, brows and waxing all available in this one-stop shop.

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Midlothian Lifestyle | September 2021

GREAT FAMILY PHOTO SHOOT LOCATIONS + The lush forest canopy, coal mine ruins and scenic lake combine to make Mid-Lothian Mines Park a natural, nearby option. + Some Chesterfield County parks have water access and river views: Robious Landing Park, Dutch Gap Conservation Area, Henricus Historical Park, and the Lake Chesdin canoe launch area. + Uncrowded, beautiful gardens and a Tudor-style mansion; what more could you ask for? It’s all at Agecroft Hall. + Looking for an unforgettable interior backdrop? The Jefferson Hotel has what you’re looking for. + For something different yet still nearby, York River State Park boasts water backdrops and rocky posing places.

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scan for more city-wide tips

LOCAL FASHION FINDS + Meghan Butcher, the Dirty Blonde Stylist (pictured), recommends It’s Chic Again as the best high-end consignment in Midlothian. Shop brands like Louis Vuitton, Talbots, and more! + Want to be on the plus of luxury Richmond fashion? VERY ASHLEY at Stony Point is where you should be! + Madison Blair boutique is fun, bright and perfect for a young soul. This boutique will have everything for your juniors and millennials. + Keep your kids stylish on a budget with Clover consignment, in Carytown. + Sassy Bee is great for locally sourced gifts and clothing with plenty of

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options for all!

scan for more city-wide tips

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

15

LOCALLY OWNED

from 0 to 100 i n 4 5 d ay s ARTICLE MARY ELLIN ARCH | PHOTOGRAPHY HUNTER HENKEL PHOTOGRAPHY

RICHMOND ACADEMY OF BALLET, THE AREA'S NEWEST DANCE SCHOOL, FOUND ITS FOOTING FAST WITH A FOCUS ON CLASSICAL DANCE

RICHMOND’S NEWEST DANCE SCHOOL CELE-

+ January 2021: With word spreading about the new

BRATES ITS FIRST ANNIVERSARY THIS MONTH,

ballet school and its professionally trained instructors,

AND WOW, WHAT A YEAR.

Richmond Academy of Ballet is officially licensed.

FLASHBACK:

413-C Branchway Road, off Courthouse Road in North

+ April 2021: RA Ballet settles into a custom space at

16

+ September 2020: Jack and Michelle Bettin begin

Chesterfield, featuring two studios (one stage-sized at 30

instructing three students at a time in Jack’s parents’

by 41 feet), several dressing rooms, a gathering area, and

basement, rolling out a dance floor and a portable

permanent, professional equipment – Harlequin sprung

barre and mirror, masked and spaced out for safety

floors with marley overlays, Harlequin barres, and mirrors

during the COVID-19 pandemic.

mounted high so dancers can practice lifts.

Midlothian Lifestyle | September 2021

“Forty-five days in we were at 100 students,” says Michelle, owner and artistic director along with husband Jack. “We registered 60 for the summer session.” Fall registration is ongoing now.

Youth Ballet as well as academy director for Metropolitan Ballet

As the school’s name clearly states, the Bettins teach ballet, in

Theatre. Additionally, they are both trained in exercise and kinesi-

the classical, Russian style, which reflects their own training and

ology, with Michelle certified as a personal trainer, and Jack simi-

performing careers. Photos and inspirational quotes from the

larly certified as a personal trainer as well as a corrective exercise

Bettins’ mentors Roudolf Kharatian, Linda Kintz, Mark Mejia and

specialist, and as a gravity yoga teacher. Jack also has experience

Alreene Monahan line one studio wall – and both performed profes-

as a sommelier and wine director working at high-end restaurants

sionally with such companies as Sacramento Ballet, Ballet Theatre

including the Michelin three-star The Inn at Little Washington, and

of Maryland, ARKA Ballet, Columbus Dance Theatre, and Omaha

notes that his time in the hospitality industry has inspired him “to

Theater Company. They met at Manassas Ballet Theatre and have

create a reverent and welcoming culture” at the new ballet school.

been partners in dance – and in life – ever since.

The couple is passionate about Russian ballet, with its precise

Both also have taught, Jack as principal instructor, choreographer

forms and expansive movements. “We are of one mind,” says Jack.

and manager for the Falls Church School of Ballet, and Michelle pre-

“One syllabus. We work on the same steps in progression, to set

viously on faculty at the Washington School of Ballet and Maryland

students up for success.”

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

17

LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED)

Yet while the Bettins’ classes can be rigorous, with students held to high standards, they are equally focused on each student holistically.

Michelle compares a typical class to the classic movie Mary Poppins – strict yet fun, with magic thrown in. She tries to instill

Reverence is a particularly important value that dovetails seamlessly with ballet. One ballet concept is révérence, or the practice of curtseying or bowing. At RA Ballet, students and instructors regularly “show révérence” to one another, typically at the end of each class.

magic by showing video snippets of famous ballets so students can

“Children are on their phones so much now. They’re insecure. It’s

experience the costumes and scenery, to glimpse the wonder of a

important for children to stand properly, look me in the eye, have rev-

ballet performance.

erence. I have to teach this,” says Michelle. “They need to be aware of

She recalls teaching a particular movement to her students, and

how they communicate with their bodies. I’m not just teaching ballet.

explaining the emotion of love and longing behind the dance as per-

I’m helping them to prepare for an interview, to interact in the world.”

formed in Swan Lake. “Then we did it again, and this time, they were

The Bettins take pride in their school and their methods and the

just beautiful,” Michelle says. “And when I asked them about it, they

benefits to the total child, no matter the body type. So passionate

said they felt beautiful, too.”

are they that they’ve enrolled their daughter, Cora, who at age 6

For children and teens, whose growing-up years can be fraught

already has two years of ballet instruction to her credit. To Cora,

by awkwardness, insecurities, poor body image and fears of

the studio on Branchway is a second home where she admits to

being unpopular or unattractive, this sense of “feeling beautiful”

spending “so much” of her time. And dancing is even more of a family

is exactly the side effect the Bettins are hoping for. In addition

affair – Jack’s brother, Tommy Bettin, has operated the Fred Astaire

to teaching the arabesque, pirouette and fifth position, the cou-

ballroom dance studio at the Arboretum since 2018.

ple also teach life skills such as respect, service, courage and

“Our teaching is inspirational and motivational,” Jack says. “We

strength, which are among the founding principles and universal

help students to motivate themselves. Children must learn that most

values that form RA Ballet’s foundation.

great accomplishments are not achieved through brief fits of stren-

“We strongly believe that cultivating reverence, a sense of beauty,

uous efforts, but through consistency, discipline and endurance. It

courage and strength in a child is essential to preparing them for a

is important for children to experience the sense of freedom and

rich and rewarding life,” the couple declare on their website.

confidence that come from self-discipline.”

18

Midlothian Lifestyle | September 2021

(804) 601-3024 RVABallet@gmail.com RABallet.com

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

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Midlothian Lifestyle | September 2021

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AU T H E N T IC , A PPROAC H A BL E A N T HO N Y

NBC12 NEWS ANCHOR ANTHONY ANTOINE EXUDES KINDNESS, OPTIMISM AND SINCERITY ON AND OFF THE AIR

22

Midlothian Lifestyle | September 2021

ARTICLE MARY ELLIN ARCH PHOTOGRAPHY HUNTER HENKEL PHOTOGRAPHY

FOR ANTHONY ANTOINE, STYLE IS MUCH MORE

so he took on a part-time job as a camera operator at

THAN WHAT HE WEARS.

the local CBS affiliate in Champaign. Once at the TV

Not that what he wears isn’t stunning, always. His job

station, he set his sights on becoming a reporter.

as NBC12 news anchor requires him to dress up, and he’s

“On weekends, I’d follow reporters and do my version of

probably best known for his business suit look. Anthony

their story,” he said. “I learned how to shoot, write, edit, the

takes that on-air standard a step further: “My shirt and

whole nine. Then each week when I had time, I’d always

tie always match my pocket square and socks,” he says.

send my version of that same story to the news director.”

He confesses to owning 7-10 pairs of dress shoes and

So, wait: Let’s get this straight. That’s 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.

25 pairs of footwear in all, including casual shoes and

Monday-Friday doing sales, followed by 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.

sneakers. He likes to pin a flower on his lapel, “to add a

as a cameraman, and then re-reporting and packaging

little something,” and he remarks with a laugh, “It’s like

stories on weekends. For the better part of a year.

branding. People will ask, ‘Where’s the flower?’” Even

Not surprisingly, the hard work paid off.

on days at home in Midlothian, he notes: “You’ve got to

“I made myself the obvious choice, so when a reporter

make yourself presentable.” Especially in running shorts,

left, the news director had no choice but to hire me

his preferred weekend attire.

because I could literally do everything,” Anthony says. “It

But that’s just “style” in the most obvious (and, one might say, superficial) sense.

His professional style is a blend of humility and hard work, as illustrated by a story Anthony tells about

was a seamless transition, because I put the hard work in. I’m not going to lie to you, it wasn’t fun working two jobs for eight months and sacrificing my weekends, but at the end of it, I got what I wanted.”

how he got into journalism. His first job was in sales,

Anthony, a three-time Emmy winner, looks back on his

which some might consider the antithesis of journal-

inauspicious start with typical humility and honesty. “I actu-

ism. Initially, he peddled office products; later, he was

ally told the recruiter twice, ‘I don’t want to do sales.’ But it’s

promoted into a market development position for a

really helpful for a news person to have worked knocking

company in Illinois. But Anthony, who graduated with

on doors. If you can cut it in sales, you can do anything.”

a degree in telecommunications from Bowling Green

Anthony’s can-do, positive attitude was forged

State University in Ohio, wanted to work in TV news.

early in life. He spent his first 10 years in Trinidad and

He’d interned at CBS in Los Angeles, working on

Tobago, in the Caribbean, raised with his brother by

Entertainment Tonight, Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy,

their single mother, Sharon.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

23

AUTHENTIC, APPROACHABLE ANTHONY (CONTINUED)

“We didn’t grow up with much. But no one ever knew

Now, he’s participated in events at Richmond schools

it,” Anthony says. “My mother was hellbent on making

and helped to promote the Autism Society of Central

sure we were presentable from head to toe when we

Virginia. “I want to use my voice and my platform to help

left the house - haircuts, nice jeans. That really stuck

fill the gaps,” he says.

with me. When you look good and feel good you have

Ann Flippin, executive director of the autism

this sense of confidence.” His family emigrated from

society, is enthusiastic about Anthony and his

the islands when he was 10, starting out life in the

involvement with the organization. “Anthony is a

States in a basement apartment in Jersey City.

talented, passionate, dedicated emcee who always

Now in Richmond after six years at the

goes above and beyond at our events, interacting

Champaign station, Anthony brings a relaxed,

with individuals with autism and their families and

approachable style to his high-profile and (some

making everyone feel special,” she says. “His com-

might say) glamorous job.

passion and genuine support of our local autism

“I approach every day with a sense of optimism.

At one autism society function, Anthony met Eli

says. “To be honest, the news industry can be very

Barnum and invited him to help kick off the 5K por-

heavy. It’s a lot to consume, day in and day out, and

tion of the event. Later, Anthony invited Eli and his

you’re always connected to it. I try to offset some of

mother on an NBC12 station tour. “He even let Eli

the negativity of it.”

do the weather and record his voice,” Eli’s mother,

His positive style is hard to miss. “Anthony brings

Jennifer, recalls. “He made Eli feel like a rock star. ...

energy in the morning - even at 4 a.m.,” says Candice

Eli thinks of Anthony as a true friend - because he

Smith, morning traffic anchor and 12 About Town

treats him like one.”

Today anchor, who’s known Anthony for three years.

Anthony also did an Act of Kindness installment

“He enters the studio with music playing from his

on Ann Flippin’s brother, Jamie, who is autistic. “I was

phone, and you never know what kind of music you’ll

amazed by how well Anthony responded to him, and

get! Although he likes to have fun, he is very passion-

grateful for his compassion for our community, to

ate about news and making sure the accurate story

share our important story,” Ann says.

is told each and every day.”

Anthony is similarly engaging with his viewers, who

One way Anthony offsets the negative part of the

recognize him when he’s out and about – but typi-

news is by reporting stories of inspiration and com-

cally, not on sight. “People don’t recognize my face,”

passion, like Acts of Kindness, which airs Tuesdays

Anthony laughs. “They won’t notice until they hear my

at 5 p.m. These stories focus on a “hometown hero”

voice. I’ll be at Kroger, and I’ll hear, ‘Anthony,’ and I’ll

making a difference in the community, with those

just interact.” He quotes author Maya Angelou, famous

featured receiving a gift of cash and a restaurant gift

for a comment about on how “people will never forget

certificate as a thank you from NBC12.

how you made them feel,” as he continues: “Whether

“The people in our community, doing good like this, they need to be acknowledged,” Anthony says.

24

community are incredible.”

A lot of positivity is at the core of who I am,” he

it’s one minute or five minutes, I make sure I have a genuine interaction and get to know my viewers.”

He recalls a story he did in Champaign on Make a

But that guy in Kroger – is that the real Anthony

Wish, which drew him to volunteer with the organi-

Antoine, the same as the anchor on TV? Anthony

zation. “I can get emotionally attached to things and

says he is, calling himself “an open book,” and his wife

people when the mission is aligned with my values,”

concurs. “He is exactly who he shows himself to be –

he admits. “These kids are going through so much,

through and through,” says Briaunna Antoine, a career

things they didn’t sign up for, and they fight so hard.

coach at Brightpoint Community College (formerly

It’s hard not to want to be involved.”

John Tyler). “He is genuinely that warmhearted, wel-

Anthony also volunteered as a mentor in the schools

come, fun to be around, loving, genuine person that he

in Champaign, drawing so close to two boys in particular

puts out on TV.” Colleague Candice Smith agrees: “He

that he struggled to leave them when he moved to RVA.

is always authentically him - on and off the screen.”

Midlothian Lifestyle | September 2021

Anthony and his mom, Sharon

Jaxson and Daisy

Anthony and Briaunna

Photo courtesy of Michael Crouch of Red Crow Photo

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

25

AUTHENTIC, APPROACHABLE ANTHONY (CONTINUED)

Anthony and Jamie/photo by Ann Flippin

Eli at the station (pre-pandemic)

And that’s the message he delivers, over and over, to the young people he mentors. “I was told a lot, I wasn’t good enough, ‘not what we’re looking for.’ I tried to be different versions of me.

I’ve compared myself to others, to my own detri-

Off-Air Anthony unplugs from the stress of the

ment. But I finally decided to just be authentic. Be

news and recharges by spending time in nature.

authentic and true to who you are. The world will

“I’m a huge outdoors person. I am a fish, a child

adjust to who you are.”

of the ocean. I love the freeness of the water

His values are simple: “Show up early. Do the

– it’s a metaphor for who I am,” Anthony says.

work. It’s not how you start. It’s how you finish.

“When I’m at the ocean, I’ll wake up early and

Run your own race. Don’t look to the left or the

watch the sun come up over the water. One day

right, at the competition. When you do that,

of that can last me a week.”

you’re not paying attention to yourself, and you’re

When he’s not near water, he’s running or biking or enjoying time with Briaunna and their two

discounting your own value. Don’t compare yourself to anyone.”

“designer mutts,” Daisy and Jaxson. The couple,

Final thoughts? Anthony doesn’t hesitate.

married since 2015, like to try new restaurants,

“Look for the good in every day. Because some

travel, and visit family in New Jersey and Ohio.

days, it’s going to be harder.”

This, in a nutshell, is Anthony. “Approachability.

Kindness. Sincerity. Passion. That’s my style,” he says.

26

Midlothian Lifestyle | September 2021

Photo of Anthony Antoine and his Emmys are provided courtesy of Michael Crouch of Red Crow Photo.

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27

LOCAL LIMELIGHT Greer Jones

ARTICLE MARY ELLIN ARCH PHOTOGRAPHY HUNTER HENKEL PHOTOGRAPHY

COASTAL CHARM GREER JONES BRINGS HER BRAND OF SOUTHERN SOCIABILITY AND SOPHISTICATION TO HER REAL ESTATE BUSINESS

GREER JONES IS LIKE A BREATH OF FRESH AIR. SPECIFICALLY, AN OCEAN BREEZE. Which is appropriate for this coastal North Carolina native now transplanted inland.

Her favorite colors are pink, blue and green, which conjure up seashells and seaside cottages. Her favorite designer: Lilly Pulitzer, known for her colorful floral patterns. Her manner: Southern hospitality.

“I’m a coastal Southern girl,” says Greer, originally from Wilmington, N.C. “I’m a yes ma’am, no ma’am, Miss Manners, open-doors-for-you kind of person.

Clients see me as happy and perky, fun to work with.”

Even her business style has a relaxed, comfortable flavor geared toward making buying and selling homes easy for clients. Greer handles details behind the scenes – like a swan that looks serene atop the water while furiously paddling underneath. Every client gets Greer’s personal brand of old-fashioned courtesy: “Giving respect goes a long way,” she says. And that goes for clients selling a $65,000 property as well as those with a home valued at over a million. “Some clients will say, ‘I’m not the kind of client you usually work with,’ and I treat them just the same.”

Greer has been in real estate for 20 years, having started in interior design. “It’s a natural progression from interior design to real estate,” she says. After more than 15 years working for other brokerages both in North Carolina and Virginia, where she’s lived since 2008, she launched Greer Jones Properties three years ago.

28

Midlothian Lifestyle | September 2021

greerjonesproperties.com (804) 938-7575 14321 Winter Breeze Drive Midlothian, Virginia 23113

Greer Jones

“Going out on my own is a dream come true – the

Other support comes from an office assistant and

best decision I ever made,” she says. “It’s allowed

a transaction coordinator, and Greer’s office includes

me to build on the experience and knowledge I

other dedicated agents. She refers clients who need a

obtained working for other brokerages. I’m grateful

lender to her husband, Hugh Jones of Geneva Financial.

to all the brokers who’ve taught me so much. Real

And Greer Jones Properties is even more of a family

estate is an ever-changing business that requires

affair. Ten-year-old Kaitlyn, Greer’s “mini-me,” regularly

constant learning.”

goes on appointments and wins praise from clients for

Can-do is her motto. “The word ‘no’ is the worst

her interest in real estate. “She will be the next Greer

word you can say in a transaction,” she says. “I try to

Jones Properties owner,” Greer laughs. “She loves it.

avoid that word at all costs.”

We’ll be out driving and she’ll point to a house and say,

Personal care is her hallmark. Clients who make contact during business hours get a same-day call-

‘You know, Mom, that house would look really good with the shutters off.”

back, and she handles all clients personally – no

When she’s not working, this beach lover seeks

passing off to another agent. She always does an

out water. She travels to mostly East Coast beaches

after-purchase check-in, and often stays in touch long

monthly to relax and spend time at the shore.

after the sale wraps up. “Seventy percent of my clients

“Something many people don’t know about me is that

call me for advice on renovation projects, and invite

my favorite sport is surfing,” she says. She also enjoys

me to see it when they’re done,” she says. “Every one

hiking and mountain biking during the cooler autumn

of my clients ends up being a friend.”

months, and – not surprisingly - designing and deco-

She also offers staging services, often at no

rating for herself and friends.

charge. With two storage sheds of coastal-styled

Now that it’s fall, you’re likely to see Greer in her autumn

furniture and accessories (“coastal is comfortable,

and winter attire – a classic, preppy J. Crew style of jeans,

and it sells,” she explains) Greer is always prepared

a sweater, and tall boots. But even if the weather’s not

to make a listing look its best. “People’s expectations

beach-like, you can be sure she’ll still gravitate to water

have risen. They expect what they see on TV,” she

somehow, somewhere – and be out and about Midlothian

says. “Staged homes sell first.”

and RVA, spreading her special brand of Southern charm.

“ I ’ M A Y E S M A’A M , N O M A’A M , M I S S M A N N E R S , O P E N - D O O R S - F O R -Y O U K I N D O F P E R S O N .”

CityLifestyle.com/Midlothian

29

SEPTEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

ALL MONTH

7-12

11

2021 9/11 20TH ANNIVERSARY–NEVER FORGET 9.11 MILE-RACE FROM HOME

RICHMOND INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

FESTIVAL OF KITES & INFLATABLES

Various locations

Festival of Kites is coming back to

Join our 9/11 20th Anniversary 9.11 Mile

RIFF, one of the largest international com-

Brown's Island and bringing moon

race and promise to NEVER FORGET

petitive film festivals in the Mid-Atlantic,

bounces and inflatables for both kids

what happened that day. The medal is

brings more than 150 cutting-edge film

and adults. Let’s see your kite flying

made of beautiful stained glass. We will

premiers to Richmond plus nightly local,

skills. You can bring your own kite, but

be donating 20% of each registration

national and international music per-

we will also have a limited number of

to Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Races

formances, panels and Q&As, the red

kites for sale. There will be several food

can be completed anytime in September

carpet awards, mixers, and more - all of

and craft vendors. Rain or shine, till 6

2021 - even better if it’s on September

which usher the spirit of Hollywood into

p.m. https://tinyurl.com/2e65uvzw

11th. https://tinyurl.com/yn43fznv

RVA. https://tinyurl.com/czwt8sm9

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10

14TH ANNUAL LATIN JAZZ AND SALSA FESTIVAL

TERRY LACY: CONTEMPORARY REALISM Perkinson Center for the Arts

Zoso’s live shows aren’t about simply

The longest running Latin jazz and salsa

Terry Lacy is an American artist, now liv-

playing the right notes, they’re about aura

radio show and festival in the Richmond

ing in central Virginia. Her style might be

and feeling, harkening to the unique atmo-

Tri-City

celebrating

called Contemporary Realism, under the

sphere of the ‘70s. With astounding visual

Latin music, culture, and people. Runs until

broad umbrella of representational art.

imagery, the band recreates the music,

11 p.m. https://tinyurl.com/penb4tx5

The things Terry chooses to paint come

magic and mystery of a Zeppelin concert.

from experiences and encounters in her

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31

18 SHRIMP BLAST 2021

Appomattox Boat Harbor

walk on art

SEPTEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

Are you ready for the biggest annual shrimp feast in Southside Virginia, held on banks of the Appomattox

River? The Appomattox Boat Harbor

has hosted this scholarship fundraiser

for the Cato Foundation for 9 years;

this year is bigger and better! This

would’ve been Cato’s 50th, so we are

pulling out all the stops! Till 10 p.m. https://tinyurl.com/yp7nvvhw

24 CRATER COMMUNITY HOSPICE CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT & AUCTION Dogwood Trace Golf Course

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and

$400/team of four. Following the golf tournament will be our annual auction. https://tinyurl.com/4awfmdrc

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2021 ALEXANDER PALEY MUSIC FESTIVAL PROGRAM

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Midlothian Lifestyle | September 2021

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33

DIY

SISTERS DOIN’ IT FOR THEMSELVES

IT WAS AN ORDINARY MORNING IN

create dimension and depth – I call it my Tic-

OCTOBER 2020, AND I WAS IN BURN

Tac-Toe Wall. We painted it Hale Navy and

BOOTCAMP. I looked up and spotted Erin

used the same color on the wainscoting in

Powell, a friend from our hometown of Salem,

the powder room.

Virginia, whom I’ve known for over 25 years. We’d

The green sideboard accent piece came from

lost touch but found we had a lot in common -

Class & Trash, and Rebecca Layman of Twelve

both single, boss-babe mothers of active boys

Twenty Designs at the Lazy Daisy Store added

who are now great friends.

more special touches to finish off my “emer-

Erin has an incredible eye for design; I

ald beauty.” Another friend, Courtney Sievers,

knew I wanted her to help transform my new

had donated the abstract gold leaf painting to

Midlothian home to fit my bold personality. In

the William Fox Elementary Art Auction, and I

mid-March, another friend, Jackie Garofalo,

made it my personal mission to win it at the live

joined Erin and me with wallpaper samples,

auction – and I did! It adds so much beauty to

laptops and prosecco to create a plan. Budget

my whimsical space.

was critical; I had the entire home repainted, floors ripped out, wallpaper installed, and more. Melissa Oefelein is a Realtor with The Hogan Jackie called on her talents and many years

34

Group. This story is the first in a series of dec-

of experience in contracting and renovations

orating tips from Melissa.

to create the dining room accent wall. Jackie

meoefelein@gmail.com

used lumber, wallpaper and wainscoting to

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Midlothian Lifestyle | September 2021

ARTICLE MELISSA OEFELEIN | PHOTOGRAPHY AARON SWART

MELISSA OEFELEIN SHARES HER DIY WORK WITH WALLPAPER AND WAINSCOTING TO CREATE UNFORGETTABLE LIVING SPACES

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Along with its national ranking, The Yeatman Group was ranked #1 in the state of Virginia for both its 2020 closed units and sales by transaction volume.

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