American Military Family - May 2023

Fort Gregg-Adams | Virginia

American Military Family magazine is an independent publication with no association or affiliation with any military branch, Fort Gregg-Adams, or the Department of Defense. AMF is published by LNN USA LLC, 12 times a year for active-duty service members, veterans, and their families. Free copies are available at local VFW Posts, American Legion Posts, and participating locations in the Fort Gregg-Adams service area. Additional locations may be provided by request. Requests can be made by emailing contact information to CEO@

LNNUSA.com.

The content, information, and advertising in this publication do not constitute endorsement by any branch of the military or the Department of Defense. No part of this publication may be copied without expressed written permission of the publisher. LNN USA LLC, the publisher, and agents of the publisher make no endorsement of any advertised services or products.

The opinions, beliefs, and viewpoints expressed by the various contributors of this publication do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs, and/or viewpoints of LNN USA, LLC, its employees, or agents of LNN USA LLC. American Military Family magazine is a division of LNN USA, LLC.

STAFF:

CEO and Publisher: Craig Richards

Managing Editor: Carolyn Day Pruett

Business Manager: Tammy Richards

Contributor: Chai Gallahun

Contributor: Shannon Mason

DESIGN: Wolfrey Creative Solutions

Fort Lee Becomes Fort Gregg-Adams

In April, Fort Lee closed a chapter of its history, turning a new page and stepping into a new identity as Fort Gregg-Adams.

In addition to the change in the base’s name, numerous other features were redesignated, such as streets, bridges, neighborhoods, and entry gates. Those changes included the former Bishop-Anderson Bridge, now the Gold Star Bridge; Jackson Circle, now Valor Circle; and Lee Avenue, now Gregg Avenue.

With the renaming of the base now official, many may wonder, where did the new name originate? According to the U.S. Army, Lt. Gen. Arthur J. Gregg began his military career as an army private and worked his way up to three-star

general. Gregg served in military logistics for over three-and-a-half decades beginning shortly after the end of World War II. He is currently 94 years old and received the honor of being the only living person to have a modern military installation named for him.

The other half of the new fort name honors Lt. Col. Charity Adams, the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps’ first black officer in World War II. She led the WAAC’s first majority-black unit to serve overseas- the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion. Fort Gregg-Adams is one of nine installations recommended for renaming by the Congressional Naming Commission.

Get Out and Get Active with the MWR

BY SHANNON MASON | FOR LNNUSA.COM

With winter weather finally in our rear view mirror, it’s time to get ready for the hotter temperatures and summer months ahead! There’s nothing like being in the great outdoors while exploring and trying out new adventures and passions or even continuing old hobbies. Maybe you just want to stay close to home and enjoy a leisurely backyard barbeque with the family or are putting together a company/unit event? Need some gear or a venue? Take advantage of the resources available by utilizing the MWR for your outdoor recreation needs!

If you’re new to the area or new to getting out

into nature, a guided outdoor experience may be a great introductory activity. Hero Boat Tours are offered for groups of 2 to 10 people at the Appomattox Boat Harbor by appointment. You’ll cruise the Appomattox and James Rivers on a pontoon boat as you take in the wildlife and historic landmarks along the river. Swimming is permitted on this tour as well, and don’t forget to pack a cooler of food and beverages to make an afternoon out of it.

There are also kayaking adventures provided by outdoor recreation at Roslyn Landing in

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Colonial Heights. The route and all equipment are provided by Roslyn Landing, with lessons and adventures running from June through September. You can register for one of their expeditions and take in the great outdoors while getting in a good workout!

If you prefer a slower-paced activity on the water, there are many local lakes and rivers open for public fishing, including free fishing at Roslyn Landing in Colonial Heights near the animal shelter on Dimmock Parkway. A fishing license is required, so be prepared by getting yours before your trip.

If you’re looking to head to the shooting range to keep your skills honed or just enjoy an afternoon, Fort GreggAdams has Trap and Skeet ranges and a Personally Owned Weapons range. Trap and Skeet ranges offer opportunities for all levels from DOD employees to civilians. The range is open 10:00 - 16:00 on Fridays and Saturdays. Registered Trap and Skeet shoots are held April through September each year, as well; more information can be found by contacting the range. Nonregistered fun shoots are held October through March on every third Sunday for all skill levels, and you can find information on disabled veteran shoots, as well. The Personally Owned Weapons Range (POW) is open the first and third Sundays of the month, depending on weather and training. Patrons can practice with authorized weapons such as handguns and shotguns. Targets are available for sale, but you are required to bring your own eye protection, ear protection, and ammunition. The hours are 10:00 - 16:00 but can change without prior notice. Call ahead to 804-765-1631 to confirm and for additional information.

The MWR also runs an Archery Range which is located across from the MWR building 15014 and is open from 08:00 - 20:00. There, you can practice to improve on your bow skills or, if you are new to the sport, participate in beginner archery instruction. The Outdoor

Recreation Office can provide more information on private archery events, lessons, tournaments, and range permits.

In addition to the great recreational venues Fort Gregg-Adams has to offer, the assortment of equipment rentals is equally impressive. Various watercraft are available, including canoes, kayaks, paddle boats, and even 10–16-foot jon boats. You can add accessories such as kayak and canoe trailers, hitch racks, water ski and wakeboards, and life jackets. They even have camping gear to turn your day trip into a weekend getaway: both small and large tents, sleeping bags, and rucks. For parties and events, you’ll find various sized canopies, folding chairs and tables, ice chests, cookers, and a large selection of outdoor sporting equipment and lawn games. Of course, we cannot forget the ever so popular inflatable bounce houses and water slides that light up any kid’s face, available for birthday parties, etc. The equipment rental is very affordable, and there is something available for everyone.

The MWR building is located on 5th Street in Building 15014 Fort Lee and is open Monday through Friday from 09:00 to 17:00 (closed weekends and holidays). They can be reached by phone at 804-765-2212 for any inquiries.

The Art of Flavor Fusion

BY CRAIG RICHARDS | LNNUSA.COM

In the heart of Old Towne Petersburg sits a unique restaurant where the fusion of a variety of Asian cuisines creates an exciting dining destination. From Polynesian teriyaki to Japanese curry, Konran’s Teppanyaki style of cooking merges together delicious traditional Asian dishes and adds a dash of American flair, taking diners on a global adventure.

Owner Chef Rick designed that culinary adventure himself, drawing on almost a decadeand-a-half of experience mastering the art of Asian cuisine.

From the moment you walk through Konran’s front door, the

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relaxing atmosphere splashed in Eastern decor sets the mood for a perfect evening, whether you’re looking for a date night spot or a crowdpleasing family feast. Tempting appetizers begin your journey with options like handmade crab rangoons and freshly dipped tempura. Once your taste buds are ignited, it’s time to move to the main feast.

Chef Rick’s menu offers over twenty-five dishes that reflect his training in multiple styles of traditional Asian cooking, beginning with a three-year in-depth study of hibachi under Chef Key at Wasabi Restaurant in Prairie Du Chien, Wisconsin. The chef then travelled to Koreana Japanese Restaurant in Decora, Iowa to master the art of fusion.

Stops as head chef in both Florida and South Carolina eventually led Chef Rick to Virginia to settle down near family. With his passion for

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cooking and love for the fusion of an array of Asian flavors, ingredients, and methods, he set out to design his own unique dining experience. Konran was born.

Located at 16 W. Old Street in Petersburg, Konran is open 12pm to 8pm, Tuesday through Thursday, and 12pm to 9pm on Friday and Saturday. Proudly offering a 10% military discount, Konran invites you to experience one

of Petersburg’s most innovative and exciting culinary restaurants.

Chef Rick continues to experiment with new flavors and combinations, creating delicious apps, entrees, and even fusion desserts such as sweet cheesecake wontons to give his guests new dining adventures with each visit. With a focus on fusion, Konran gives you a unique taste that will keep you coming back for more!

A Family Favorite in Just

5 Minutes

CULINARY.NET

Running short on time from a busy schedule shouldn’t mean skipping out on your favorite desserts. In fact, it should be all the more reason to enjoy a sweet treat as a reward for all that hard work.

When you’re due for a bite into dark chocolate goodness, all it takes is a few minutes out of your day to make 5-Minute Dark Chocolate Cereal Bars. This quick and simple dessert makes it easy to celebrate the day’s accomplishments without added stress.

As a fun way for little ones to help in the kitchen, you can cook together the butter, marshmallows, peanut butter and cereal then let the kiddos drizzle the key ingredient: melted chocolate. All that’s left to do is cut and serve or pack a few off to school and work for an afternoon treat. Find more seasonal dessert recipes at Culinary. net. If you made this recipe at home, use #MyCulinaryConnection on your favorite social network to share your work.

5-Minute Dark Chocolate Cereal Bars

5-Minute Dark Chocolate Cereal Bars

Recipe adapted from ScrummyLane.com

• 4 tablespoons butter

• 10 ounces marshmallows

• 1/2 cup peanut butter

• 6 cups cereal

• 4 ounces milk chocolate, melted

• 4 ounces dark chocolate, melted

1. Heat saucepan over low heat. Add butter, marshmallows and peanut butter; stir to combine. Add cereal; mix until coated.

2. Line 9-by-13-inch pan with parchment paper. Add cereal mixture to pan.

3. In bowl, mix milk chocolate and dark chocolate. Drizzle chocolate over cereal mixture; spread evenly then allow to cool.

4. Cut into bars and serve.

Wine Dinner: I’m on Cloud Wine

Wednesday, May 3rd: 6:30pm

Swift Creek Mill Theatre

17401 Route 1, Chesterfield, VA

Our next wine dinner is “I’m On Cloud Wine” on May 3rd at 6:30pm! Bring a date, a family member, or friends to our fine dining, four-course meal where each course has a complimenting wine or mocktail. The menu is released closer to the event. These tend to sell out before the date so reserve your seats soon!

The 31st Bizarre

Bazaar Spring Market

The 31st Bizarre Bazaar

Spring Market

May 5th, 6th, and 7th Richmond Raceway Complex

600 E. Laburnum Avenue, Richmond, VA

Our beautiful Spring Market is packed with everything you need for Spring and Summer! May 5-7 at Richmond Raceway Complex. Don’t Miss It! Tickets? Go to thebizarrebazaar.com.

The Wizard of Oz May 4th - 7th: multiple showtimes

The Perkinson Center for the Arts

11810 Centre Street, Chester, VA

We’re off to see the wizard! This beloved tale, in which a Kansas farm girl travels over the rainbow to discover the magical power of home, has entertained audiences for generations. Presented by Broken Leg Theater.

Science After Dark: Revenge of the 5th

Friday, May 5th: 5pm

The Science Museum of Virginia 2500 W. Broad Street, Richmond, VA

Calling all Jedis, princesses, Wookiees, supreme commanders and stormtroopers: explore the STEM behind invisible forces that shape our universe. Don your best cosplay outfit (no face masks!), jump on your speeder bike, and head to the Science Museum for a night full of out-of-this-world fun. Just like in the sci-fi series, there’s no shortage of adventures awaiting you with special activities scattered throughout the Science Museum! Live astronomy shows take place in The Dome at 5:45, 6:30 and 7:15 p.m. No additional tickets are required. Each show is open to the first 250 guests. Seating is first come, first served.

Cinco de Mayo

Spring Fling

Friday, May 5th: 6pm

Downtown Waverly 119 Bank Street, Waverly, VA

Feature Attraction Band performing for the 2023

Cinco de Mayo Spring

Fling sponsored by the Sussex Chamber of Commerce / Town of Waverly, Virginia. The event will be held in downtown Waverly and it starts at 5:00PM. Music from 6:00-9:00PM. No admission fee. Drinks and food will be available onsite for purchase. No coolers allowed.

Paddle in Your Park

Saturday, May 6th: 1pm City Park 245 Appomattox St, Hopewell, VA

Join the Hopewell Downtown Partnership on Saturday, May 6th for Hopewell’s first-ever Community Paddle Day at the Riverwalk at City Park with RVA Paddlesports, Beyond Boundaries, Boys to Men, FOLAR and Hopewell Recreation Parks! Our outdoor rec experts will offer a variety of free paddling experiences appropriate for all ages and skill levels, to increase diversity in the sport, and to promote inclusivity in the paddlesports community here in Hopewell. We will have kayaks, SUPS, & rafts for people to try out as well as a food truck, vendors, and music.

Free Comic Book Day Fest

Saturday, May 6th: 12pm The Time Capsule 205 E. Broadway, Hopewell, VA

This year we are expanding Free Comic Book Day out beyond the shop and having a good old fashioned street festival! You can still come to the shop for all of the free comics and some great sales, but we are closing down East Broadway and filling it with vendors and food trucks and live music! There will be comic books, Pokemon cards, sports cards, toys, crafted items and more! Come on down!

Tacos & Tequila Festival

Saturday, May 6th: 4pm Appomattox Boat Harbor 1604 Fine Street, Prince George, VA

Harbor Blast brings you a new twist on the riverside festival celebrating the week of Cinco de Mayo with Tacos & Tequila. Live music, vendors, and circle the food trucks - tacos of every kind imaginable. Frozen margaritas, iced tequila cocktails, and traditional chilled shots of tequila will be served with salt and sliced fruit at multiple tiki bars to those 21 and over (must show valid picture ID with ticket at the gate.)

Star Wars: The Return of the Jedi in Concert

Saturday, May 6th: 8pm Altria Theater

6 N. Laurel Street, Richmond, VA

“Only now, at the end, do you understand.” The Richmond Symphony returns to the Altria for the final episode of the original Star Wars trilogy: The Return of the Jedi, The Symphony performs John Williams’ magnificent score LIVE as this cinema classic unspools on the giant screen. Conducted by Chia-Hsuan Lin.

Cabaret Nights: OMG! I love that song!

May 12th and 13th: 8pm

Swift Creek Mill Theatre

17401 Route 1, Chesterfield, VA - What are the songs your Mom and Dad listened to on the radio during road trips? What about the 8-tracks your brother played in the car, or records you played with your sister on the family stereo? Ever wear out a cassette tape on your Walkman, or belted out a classic tune using a hairbrush for a microphone? Well, these are the songs that inspired Debra Wagoner, that shaped her musical tastes, and THIS is her cabaret: OMG! I love that song!

INDEPENDENT LOCAL

Welcome to New York

May 10th - 13th: multiple showtimes

The Perkinson Center for the Arts

11810 Centre Street, Chester, VA

Join us as we dance our way through New York! Presented by Tiffany’s School of Dance.

Sweet Strawberry Festival

Saturday, May 13th: 9am River Street Market

30 River Street, Petersburg, VA

Strawberry Season comes early this year so come on out Mother’s Day weekend and get all things local and all things STRAWBERRY! We’re gonna have a lot of fun with our favorite fruit! Giveaways, drawings, music and kid’s activities!

Fusing all types of oriental cuisine to give you a unique taste that will keep you coming back for more!

16 West Old Street, Petersburg, VA 23803

Mon. - Thur.12p - 8p | Fri. - Sat. 12p - 9p | Sunday Closed

(804) 722-3342

Breakthrough Car Show

Saturday, May 13th: 10am

Pamplin Historical Park

6955 Duncan Rd, Petersburg, VA

Join in the fun of this automotive extravaganza! Experience the sights and sounds of elegant autos from yesteryear to the technologically advanced super cars of today at the historic Hart Farm, which is part of Pamplin Historical Park. The Breakthrough Car Show is open to all makes, models and years of vehicles and anyone can bring out their ride and participate in the show.

Keystone Blowout

Saturday, May 13th: 2pm

Keystone Antique Truck & Tractor Museum

880 W. Roslyn Road, Colonial Heights, VA

Live music. Catered dinner. Ice cream. Doors open at 2. Food will be served from 5:00 to 8:00. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased in the museum gift shop or the day of the event for $35. Children under 12 are free. Ticket includes meal and complete access to the museum.

• Variety of washers and dryers • Services to fit any budget

• Locations are centrally located to make it easy to get laundry done

• Drop off wash, dry and fold same-day service option Monday thru Saturday (Prince George location only, must drop off by 2PM for same-day service) Please Call 804-452-2356

928 Cousins Ave

Hopewell, VA 23860

10109 James River Drive North Prince George, Va 23860

May Sidewalk Event

Saturday, May 13th: 11am

Artisan Alley

226 East Broadway Ave, Hopewell, VA

Bring the family for some last minute Mother’s Day shopping!

Graham Stone

Saturday, May 13th: 6pm Trapezium Brewing Company 423 3rd Street, Petersburg, VA

Whether playing solo, trio, full band or somewhere in between, Graham Stone Music has toured the eastern seaboard of the United States playing alongside and opening for national touring acts like Lindsay Lou, Songs from the Road Band, the Brothers Brothers and guitar heroes like Michael Daves while also playing regionally with other local bands and friends.

Suds Coin Laundry is dedicated to excellent customer service and trusted laundry with locations in Prince George and Hopewell, VA communities.

Richmond Symphony’s Family Concert: Mother Goose Suite

Sunday, May 14th: 3pm The Perkinson Center for the Arts

11810 Centre Street, Chester, VA

In honor of Mother’s Day, we will showcase our mothers, who are strong, tender, smart, and who care deeply for us. Dvorak’s “Songs My Mother Taught Me” and the centerpiece, Ravel’s Mother Goose Suite will be featured. This is a concert for all the family and we hope you enjoy!

Country Blast

May 20th and 21st

Appomattox Boat Harbor

1604 Fine Street, Prince George, VA

Live Country Music, Line Dancing Lessons, Beer - Wine - Cocktails, Food Trucks, Cornhole Tournaments, Free Parking

Bring folding chairs & blankets to sit by the river. No outside food or beverages in the festival area. No pets. Benefits Off the Chain Animal Rescue. Call (804) 536-1200 for camping and boat slip reservations.

Bordertown with Mackenzie Roark

Friday, May 19th: 6pm The Iron Works 30 W. Old Street, Petersburg, VA

Bordertown playing all your favorites!!! Mackenzie Roark warning you up for them!! Bring your dancing boots, this is gonna be an awesome night of music at the Ironworks!!! Friday Flow! The Music. The Iron. The River. The Vibe!!

A Brother’s Revival

The Beacon Theatre 207 E. Cawson Street, Hopewell, VA

A Brothers Revival, Tribute to the Allman Brothers Band at T he Beacon on Saturday, May 20!

Friends of Soul

Saturday, May 20th: 6pm Cul’s Courthouse Grille 10801 Courthouse Rd, Charles City, VA

The best R&B band in Va!! A can’t miss show. Get here early for a good spot.

Chili Peppers

Opening Day

Thursday, May 25th: 7pm

Shepherd Stadium 901 Meridian Ave, Colonial Heights, VA

The Tri-City Chili Peppers 2023 Opening Day game is one you do not want to miss! Be the first to meet the new team, feel the new experience, & join in on the most exciting atmosphere in central Va. Gates Open at 5:45pm with pre-game entertainment from the best DJ, Hype Man, and MC’s in VA, not to mention live music from One Fell Swoop Band.

Summer Wreath Workshop

Sunday, May 21st: 2pm Richlands Dairy & Creamery 460 Cox Road, Blackstone, VA - Grab a friend and get your front door ready for summer! Join Carrie with Dragonfly Door Decor as we make a bright and colorful flip flop themed wreath! The hard part is done for you - materials will be pre-measured and pre-cut so you can concentrate on the fun part of putting your new wreath together! All supplies and step-by-step instructions are included. EARLY BIRD SPECIAL: Purchase your tickets by May 1st. Price increases to $76 on May 2nd. Arrive early to grab some lunch and ice cream!

Rob Benton 2023 Tour

Thursday, May 25th: 8pm Omega Bar & Grill 120 E. City Point Road, Hopewell, VA

Look who is making another stop at Omega during his 2023 tour. This will be a ticketed show with tickets available for $10.00 each. There are a limited number of spots available so be sure to mark your calendar. Ticket sales will begin on March 1, 2023. This event will sell out so don’t dally around.