Hanover Lifestyle Mar/Apr 2018

Hanover March / April 2018

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L I F E STYL E

Making A Splash

Pools and Spas for the Home

A New Crop of Active Adults

Chickahominy Falls

In Search Of:

Comfort Food

E

dward D. Barnes

is the Founder and President of Barnes & Diehl, P.C. He has been practicing law for over 46 years. He handles family law cases of all types and levels, including the very highest level of complex equitable distribution, Elder law, and estate planning.

Mr. Barnes is chair and founder of the National Center for Family Law Studies at the University of Richmond School of Law. He is an adjunct instructor, teaching Ethics in Family Law at the University of Richmond School of Law. He has received the Lifetime Achievement Award of the Virginia State Bar Family Law Section. He is Past President of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Virginia Chapter. For several years, he has been named a Top 10 and Top 100 Super Lawyer in Virginia by SuperLawyers® as published in Richmond magazine. Mr. Barnes is again listed in Best Lawyers in America® for 2018 and has been named “Lawyer of the Year” for family law in Richmond for several years. He was the inaugural recipient of the “Leader in the Law” award in 2006, which is a recognition sponsored by Virginia Lawyers Weekly. He has been named a Legal Elite® by Virginia Business Magazine every year. In 2006, he was named Distinguished Alumnus of the Year, for the University of Richmond School of Law, and he has served as President of numerous local bar associations.

Ed frequently speaks throughout the state on behalf of the Virginia State Bar, through their Virginia Continuing Legal Education Program. He has presented continuing education courses for over 20 years. Annually, he gives an update on family law, at four locations in Virginia, for the Virginia State Bar. He has authored chapters in several family law books published by the Virginia State Bar Continuing Legal Education.

Ed is active in his church and in his community.

He is a licensed, instrument rated airplane pilot since 1978. He served as an officer in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (1966-1969).

Barnes & Diehl would like to welcome back to the firm, as a Shareholder, Brandy M. Poss.

B

randy Poss grew up in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. She attended Wake Forest University. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Biology, Brandy went on to the University of Richmond School of Law where she graduated cum laude.

While attending the University of Richmond, she was a staff member of The University of Richmond Law Review; a Senior Staff Member of the Richmond Journal of Law and Technology; and she was also a member of the McNeill Law Society.

Brandy has been licensed to practice law since 2003 and began her career with Barnes & Diehl, P.C., in 2002 as a summer law clerk. Since the beginning of her career, she has focused her practice on family law. Brandy handles adoption cases and all issues in divorce matters including complex property distribution, child custody and visitation cases, and spousal and child support issues.

In addition to representing clients in all phases of family law matters in the Circuit Court and the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court, Brandy has extensive experience in appellate law with a focus on family law issues. Her ability to research legal issues thoroughly and her excellent writing s kills have led to many successful appeals for her clients.

Brandy has written numerous articles for Virginia Continuing Legal Education programs including the Update on Virginia Family Law and What Every Virginia Lawyer Should Know About Divorce. She has authored publications addressing the use of electronic evidence in family law cases, relocation in custody matters, and ethics in family law. Brandy has also taught seminars on family law topics, such as adoption issues and preparing for appeals in family law cases.

Her attention to detail and focus on her clients’ goals have proven successful. Brandy has been selected to Super Lawyers in Virginia, as published in Richmond Magazine, every year since 2013. She was voted a Virginia Super Lawyers Rising Star by Virginia Super Lawyer’s Magazine in 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012.

Brandy lives in Chesterfield, Virginia with her husband and two sons.

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CONTENTS MARCH / APRIL 2018

FEATURES

8 A New Crop of Active Adults Chickahominy Falls

DEPARTMENTS Flavor 16 In Search Of...

Comfort Food

18 Tastebudz 20 Happy Hour

26

Things To Do

24 Calendar of Events

Home 22 Making a Splash

Pools and Spas for the Home

12 Outdoor Spaces

It’s What’s On the Outside That Counts

Travel 26 Kilmarnock

The Hub of the Northern Neck

16 02 Hanover Lifestyle

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From the Editor

Contributors

In my last editor’s letter (January/February 2018), I wrote that I don’t really ever read the editors’ letters in most magazines. I speculated that no one else does either. Well, as usual, I was wrong.

I heard from quite a number of you who took the time to let me know that you do read them.

So, I guess I better give a little thought to what I’m going to write this time. I am still not of the opinion that I need to tell you about what you’ll find in this magazine. I may not make it sound as tantalizing as it is and you may not go any further. I could regale you with tales from my boyhood. But my wife has informed me that that’s become pretty tedious. I could share some of my haiku.

Whitney Kiatsuranon

But I hate Haiku Haiku never seems to rhyme That’s not poetry So, I’m going to write about something that we’ve been talking a lot about here in the office. All of us are pretty much in agreement that we are sick and tired of all the negative news stories out there these days.

Now, admittedly, we need to know the news and there are sources for legitimate, honest news, although, it’s getting harder and harder to tell just who is being objective in their reporting.

I used to be a news reporter both on radio and in newspapers. But I’m glad I’m not writing news anymore. The thing that I like about Richmond Navigator Media publications is that we only write about the cool things that the area has to offer, the people, the events, the businesses.

Again, there is a place for negative press, but it’s not in this magazine. We try to position our editorial in a way that comes across as neighbors sharing good things with neighbors.

For instance, let’s talk about our restaurant and dining coverage. I don’t love every restaurant I visit. I don’t love every dish on the menus in even my favorite restaurants. But I’d much rather share a good dining story with you than tell you about a miserable meal I’ve had.

However, even if it’s an advertiser, we’re not going to tell you something is great, if, in our opinion, it ain’t so great. Years ago, we were doing a feature on our favorite desserts. A local restaurant, which I happen to like very much, sent over some samples. Even though I love the restaurant and even though they were advertisers, we weren’t impressed with the samples they sent. So, we simply left any mention of them out of that feature. You know the old saying — If you can’t say something nice, don’t’ say anything. Well, we practice that in our publications. I think there’s a market for feel-good stories. What do you think?

It’s not that we’re all that nice, ourselves. I complain about lots of things. But I don’t use the magazine to do it. Except, of course, about editors’ letters. And for that I truly apologize.

Steve Cook,

Steve@RichmondNavigator.com

A native Richmonder, Whitney enjoys freelance writing, hiking along the James and exploring the city like a tourist. When she is not trying new restaurants and socializing over wine, you’ll find her at home in the Fan being an ordinary goofball with her two kids.

While she loves her hometown at any time you’ll find her enjoying some of her favorite places such as NYC, Charleston or her all-time favorite (so far) Saint Martin. All of the adventures she seeks on a day-to-day basis make for interesting articles on beauty, food and fitness.

Lisa Puster

Lisa Puster is a web content manager, writer and mom of two teenage daughters, Meredith and Morgan. Lisa is a selfproclaimed shopping, yoga and wine enthusiast. Her interest in wine began after working for a wine distributor years ago. She enjoys pairing her love for wine with her love for writing!

Angela Weight

Angela is a native of Middle Georgia who followed her husband (and his job) to Richmond in 2014. An insatiably curious freelance writer, she has covered everything from monster truck racing to the latest embalming techniques (though not in the same article). When Angela isn’t clicking away on her laptop, she can usually be found at a baseball field cheering for one of her sons.

Josh Young

In Our Next Issue:

Where are you going on vacation this year? Don’t make any plans until you read the May/June issue of Hanover Lifestyle Magazine. We’ll tell you about a vacation destination that offers history, amazing museums and galleries, exciting music and theatrical venues, amazing dining options and unique accommodations. It’s called Metro Richmond.

Discover this cool area in our next issue.

06 Hanover Lifestyle

RichmondNavigator.com

Josh Young is a photographer and educator, as well as a recent Richmond transplant. He earned his degrees from West Virginia University where he worked as a photo journalist, and an event and portrait photographer. His news photos have been used nationwide through the Associated Press. When he’s not behind the camera, he can be found reading a good book, or trying to sample all the great food that Richmond has to offer.

To see some of his work, view his Instagram: @joshuayoungphoto.

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March / April 2018

ALL ARTICLES AND CONTENTS OF THIS MAGAZINE ARE NOT NECESSARILY THE OPINIONS OR THOUGHTS OF HANOVER LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE, ADVERTISING CONCEPTS, INC OR THE PUBLISHER.

ABOUT OUR COVER

Chickahominy Falls is beginning to take shape near Ashland as Virginia’s first and only farmcentered residential community, and the first in the nation to be geared solely to the 55-plus homeowner. The cover rendering on our was created by David Hamilton, a partner/principal with Geobarns, LLC. We feel it’s the perfect cover to introduce the new Hanover Lifestyle logo, designed to reflect our excitement over Hanover’s dynamic growth.

Hanover Lifestyle 07

ALL OVER HANOVER

A New Crop of

Active Adults

Chickahominy Falls – Another First for Cornerstone Homes

by Steve Cook

W

hile there are several home builders in the Richmond market who offer age-targeted and age-qualified communities, no one except Cornerstone Homes is building exclusively for this important demographic. As a leader in this arena, Roger Glover, founder and president of Cornerstone Homes, has successfully demonstrated an awareness of what homebuyers seek as they near retirement age.

So, just what are these folks looking for? Downsizing is the term we often hear in regards to this question. Perhaps “rightsizing” is a more accurate way to phrase it. It is true, with the kids having moved out, Boomers don’t need as many rooms as they once did. But, they do want the space to enjoy an active lifestyle in a manner that currently suits their needs.

Many want more time to enjoy their lives, explains Pam Nasworthy, director of sales and marketing at Cornerstone Homes. They seek maintenance-free homes to gain valuable time to enjoy their new resortstyle amenities with their peers, enjoy grandchildren and travel. In other 08 Hanover Lifestyle

words, start checking off that “bucket list”! What they seek, is exactly what Cornerstone Homes is offering.

There’s one Cornerstone community being planned for Hanover County that is getting a lot of attention these days. It may well be the Richmond-based builder and developer’s most unique property to date.

It’s Chickahominy Falls, a 180-acre planned age-qualified neighborhood located on Cedar Lane near Route 1.

Chickahominy Falls will offer the amenities, which have become the cornerstone of Cornerstone Homes properties. But Chickahominy Falls will also offer so much more.

Kirsten Nease – project manager with the Crescent group, the developer of and a sister company of Cornerstone Homes – explains what makes Chickahominy Falls so special.

“This is Central Virginia’s first and only farm-centered residential community. In fact, it is the first nationally to be geared solely to the 55plus homeowner.”

She describes it as a planned age-qualified community of about 400

RichmondNavigator.com

Illustration: David Hamilton

homes to be centered around a working farm, Woodside Farms, and other five-star amentias. There are plans to grow and harvest a variety of vegetables, fruits, nuts, berries, herbs, cut flowers, mushrooms and honey. This produce will be available to homeowners and will also “feed collaborative efforts with other local markets and farms.

The farm was designed and will be professionally maintained by Agriburbia, a nationally renowned farming developer, with opportunities for the homeowners to volunteer and learn from the experts on staff. So, even if one does not possess the proverbial green thumb, residents will have plenty of opportunities for learning. Woodside Farms will feature an event barn for community use and will offer educational classes, professional chef events, canning operations and produce distribution among other farm-to-table activities.

While Cornerstone Homes will be building the majority of the houses in Chickahominy Falls, they have formed a partnership with another Richmond-based builder, Stylecraft Homes, to be able to meet demand and offer a wider array of products. In the first phase, Cornerstone

Homes will be building single-family detached “Carriage” homes and Stylecraft Homes will be building detached “Cottage” homes that will share a driveway court and be configured in clusters of four homes.

Explaining the impetus for a residential farm-centered neighborhood, Nasworthy says that many of today’s active adults have shown a preference for the garden hoe over the golf clubs. Today, those 55 and older are seeking to live a healthier more active lifestyle. Of course, we’re not talking about an all-work, no-play community. The farm allows residents to have access to healthier food sources, and the other amenities allow residents to enjoy the rural landscape of Hanover County right in their own backyard.

Nease says that site work has begun and that the sales center should be open at the site by late spring. Come fall, Chickahominy Falls should have its first residents.

If you want to know more, you’re not unlike hundreds of other who have already put their name on a VIP list to get up-to-the-minute news on the latest developments. To place your name on that list, go to ChickahominyFalls.com.

March / April 2018

Hanover Lifestyle 09

The Richmond Navigator Guide to

Springtime Fun

W

by Whitney Kiatsuranon

ith spring upon us, warmer weather and longer days are just around the corner. That means it’s time to break out of winter hibernation and go enjoy some of the area’s many festivals. So, if you’re in or around the Richmond area, we’ve compiled a small list of events to help you discover what fun is in-store for you.

At the top of our spring festival bucket list is the Historic Garden Week, from April 21 through the 28. On Saturday, the 21st, Ashland gardens will be featured. Visit the website (VAGardenWeek.org) for the full tour schedule and additional information. I can’t think of a better way to get inspired for your spring planting ideas.

10 Hanover Lifestyle

enjoy reasonably priced small plates from local vendors during one of Richmond’s most eco-friendly festivals of the year. Proceeds will benefit Feed More, a local non-profit that help provide food to Central Virginia’s most vulnerable residents — children, families and seniors.

For more information on where to nosh and how to get involved visit BroadAppetit.com.

Mud thrashers, climbers, bikers, runners, nature lovers and music fans will want to catch all the amazing athletes and entertainers at the Dominion Energy Riverrock festival May 18 to 20 at Browns Island. This three-day event, which puts James River and Downtown Richmond on display, features a variety of sporting events, musical entertainment and an interactive village. Get all the details at RiverRockRVA.com.

Once we have finally made it to June, I think it’s time for some wine and fine artistry, along with kid-friendly activities.

Welcome to the Spring Jubilee at Rassawek Vineyard. The annual event, held June 2 and 3 at 6276 River Road West, will feature horsedrawn carriage rides, a multitude of fine wines and lots of family-friendly fun. For more information, visit Rassawek.com.

After all that wine at Rassawek, you’re sure to be hungry, and Richmond does food better than most of the bigger metropolises in the country. Bring your appetite to Broad Street and Broad Appetit, on June 3. You can RichmondNavigator.com

Springtime is a great time to hit the open road. Here are a couple of unique events you may not want to miss a bit farther from home.

For instance, there’s the Lorton Prison Break Dash on April 15 at the Old Lorton Prison Complex. Picture the scenario: You’ve busted out of the pen. Besides the dogs and the cops, you should probably be afraid of all the escapees running alongside you. Run through three full prison grounds. If you escape to freedom, you’ll be met with wine and a prison buffet. To register, go to PrisonBreakDash.com.

Once you’re done running from the cops (in Lorton), hop a freight (better yet, drive) to Franklin County, the”Moonshine Capital of the World.” On April 22 from 1 to 5 p.m., take the Moonshine Express in Rocky Mountain.

Learn the ins and outs of making moonshine; how to make it; why it was made; and where it could be found. Check out the history museum at 460 S. Main St., Rocky Mount, Virginia.

SPENDING TOO MUCH

ON INK AND TONER?

Manorhouse RE VISITED

By Steve Cook

EXPIRES 3/30/18

“From the moment you drive onto our property, you realize it’s very much like home. It’s not institutional in any way.” That’s the assurance given to me by Ken Newell, CEO of Manorhouse Management. Newell was speaking about his new facility, Manorhouse, which at the time of our conversation in late 2016 was in its early stages of construction.

As Manorhouse nears its first anniversary, I’m happy to report that their staff and management have succeeded in their intent to “provide simple solutions to complex and emotional family needs,” as Jim Bonnell, the company’s Chief Operating Officer, said when we spoke about a year-and-a-half ago.

I asked Valerie Robinson, the Director of Resident Relations, for an update. “We will be celebrating our first anniversary in June,” she said. “Our occupancy is ahead of projections and we are enjoying a wonderful reputation in the community with word of mouth referrals being our largest source of inquiries and moveins.”

While its appearance is impressive, it’s what goes on behind the stately stone walls at Manorhouse that matters most to families who seek to provide the best care for their aging parents. An internal family satisfaction survey after six months of operations revealed that 98.4 percent of current families would recommend Manorhouse to other families or potential residents.

And no wonder. The caring, experienced and well-trained staff is dedicated to making residents feel truly at home and to ensuring that they can continue to enjoy an active lifestyle. “Our activity calendar is full,” Robinson March / April 2018

said. “And we have been all about town since opening.” Trips into the community have included the Science Museum, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens, Carter’s Mountain, Altria Theater to see Jersey Boy’s, musical performance and High Tea at the Jefferson Hotel. The weekly lunch outings and shopping excursions have taken residents to some of Short Pump’s most popular restaurants and destinations.

As beautiful as the artist renderings were and as promising as Manorhouse seemed to be about 18-months ago, I realized that the thing I was most impressed with was the dedication of the owners and staff. I had written then, “But the bottom line is not about the bells and whistles (and there are many). It really comes down to the people involved in the project.”

It’s those people who have, in less than a year, made Manorhouse the region’s premier assisted living and memory care community.

“We have a solid team in place with strong leadership. Our local ownership continues to be a strength and contributes to our success,’’ Robinson recently stated. “Residents and families have had the opportunity to interact in person with the owners multiple times since opening, and they are very accessible.”

As Manorhouse approaches its first anniversary, it would appear that they have done just what Robinson promised back in 2016, “We don’t have to answer to a big conglomerate or corporate investors,’’ she explained. “The only people that we have to please are our residents and their families.”

For more information, phone 804-360-7777 or visit online at ManorhouseRetirement.com.

Hanover Lifestyle 11

Virginia Family Dentistry From Baby Teeth to Braces and Beyond

by Angela Weight

I

n today’s hurry-up world of manic multitasking, finding top quality care coupled with patient-focused convenience is definitely a winwin! That’s the mission of Virginia Family Dentistry, a locally owned practice that’s been serving RVA for over 40 years.

With 14 locations, including two in Hanover, VFD offers patients a place to have all their dental care needs met in-house, rather than being referred elsewhere.

“We have over 55 general dentists and dental specialists, all within our practice,” explains Virginia Family Dentistry’s Dr. Dennis Wong. “Because you shouldn’t have to leave the dental practice where you’re comfortable to find an orthodontist, endodontist or periodontist.”

This business model should be especially good news to parents whose kids wear braces. Since some VFD offices have general dentists, pediatric dentists and orthodontists under one roof, it’s possible for a patient to get the wires off their braces, have their teeth cleaned and then go back and get the wires and bands put back on...all in the same visit.

However, convenience is just one benefit of this multi-specialty approach. Care quality also improves. “With everyone in the same practice, it’s easier for dentists and specialists to communicate with each other and collaborate on patient cases,’’ Dr. Wong explains. “This ensures that everyone is on the same page and that all needs are addressed,”.

With an increasing focus on children’s dental care, Virginia Family Dentistry is opening a new pediatric wing in their Atlee office, boasting a bright, kid-friendly atmosphere that doesn’t feel cold or clinical. To ease

12 Hanover Lifestyle

youngsters’ dental visit jitters, each treatment station is equipped with a TV screen, so kids can enjoy their favorite shows instead of stressing about their treatment.

Dr. Jeff Laughlin — a pediatric dentist with VFD, who sees kids of all ages and with special healthcare needs — explains why young smiles are a high priority at his practice. “Parents don’t realize that dental decay is the most common chronic childhood disease — five times more than asthma. Decay in children cannot only lead to pain, but can also impact their ability to eat, sleep and learn in school. Therefore, it is important for a parent to bring their child to see me as early as age one in order to prevent decay before it begins.”

Pediatric dentists undergo two to three years of child-specialized training beyond that of general dentists, and they’re often better at communicating and explaining dental procedures in terms that young children can understand.

“We do not view children as ‘little adults,’” says Laughlin. “As a pediatric dentist, I understand that kids come to my office with very unique needs that require a very different approach to address not only their dental concerns, but their overall behavior and development. Our goal is to improve the dental health of your child while making it an enjoyable experience!”

Virginia Family Dentistry treats patients of all ages and stages. From babies cutting their first teeth to retirees considering dental implants.

Visit VADentist.com to find the location that’s closest to you.

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Charcoal for Whitening?

By Nikki Sparks, DDS

There is a constant stream of new health and beauty products that claim to make us look or feel better.Activated charcoal is a trendy “miracle” ingredient featured in skincare products and now making its way into toothpaste. There are several pre-mixed charcoal toothpastes, which instruct the user to apply and allow it to sit three to five minutes and then simply rinse the paste and stain-causing toxins away. When offering my opinion on charcoal for tooth whitening, I address two important questions: Will it work? And, is it safe?

In theory, yes charcoal might help remove certain stains from your teeth. Charcoal is a porous molecule. Think of it like a bath sponge with pockets. These pockets give it the ability to trap toxins, chemicals and nutrients. If the charcoal is applied to the tooth, it may trap whatever is causing a stain on the surface and flush it away when rinsed. It is worth mentioning that not all stains are superficial, and charcoal will not be able to combat internal staining or teeth which are “naturally yellowing.”

The second question: Could it be safe? Charcoal itself is not toxic to the human body. In fact, it is often used as a detoxifying agent if someone accidentally ingests poison. The danger lies in the damage charcoal may have on the enamel. Charcoal is abrasive and can erode the enamel on the surface of your teeth, particularly if applied aggressively. When the enamel is removed, teeth become more sensitive and susceptible to decay. In addition, the dentin layer underneath the enamel has a

darker yellow hue, so efforts to whiten may actually cause the teeth to look darker. Keep in mind that most charcoal products do not contain fluoride, whereas other whitening toothpastes often do. Fluoride is the decay-fighting ingredient recommended by dentists to restore enamel.

Research also shows that charcoal can trap and flush out the beneficial minerals in our saliva. These minerals play a major role in cavity prevention by rebuilding and maintaining enamel health.

In closing, until research proves otherwise, I am not convinced that results will be any better or even consistent with other whitening methods.

So for me, the risks outweigh the benefits.

S. Nikki Sparks, DDS, a Powhatan, VA native, attended James Madison University, graduated Magna Cum Laude with a B.S. in Chemistry and is an alumnus of the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry. She is a member of the Richmond Dental Society, American Dental Association, Virginia Dental Association, and International Congress of Oral Implantologists.

Virginia Family Dentistry is a group practice of more than 50 doctors specializing in Orthodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, Dental Implants, Prosthodontics, Periodontics, Endodontics, Cosmetic and General Dentistry. With 14 convenient locations in the Richmond Metro Area, we can assist you in creating your youthful smile. For a location near you, visit VAdentist.com.

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Medicaid CCC Plus Waiver Accepted Monday-Friday 7am-5:30pm

LINKING LIVES DAY SUPPORT

Community and center-based day support for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Activities optimized for individual preferences and strengths.

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Personal care assistance and training.

Full-time RN and CNAs. Licensed by Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services.

Medicaid DD Waiver Accepted Monday-Friday 8am-4:00pm

Cold Harbor Business Center 7231 Stonewall ParkwayMechanicsville, VA 23111 804.746.0743 • www.hanoveradultcenter.com 14 Hanover Lifestyle

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GET UP YOUR FEON ET THIS SPRING

Your Pet’s Purr-fect

Vacation at Holiday Barn

by Maria Tucciarone

W

ho let the dogs out? Not Holiday Barn Pet Resorts! At Holiday Barn, the professional staff knows your fourlegged friend isn’t just a pet; he’s your fur baby. Since 1972, their well-trained, animal-loving assistants have been providing Richmond, Glen Allen, Southside and surrounding areas with caring, compassionate and friendly service. “Our mission is to create joy into the lives of pets and their families,” said owner, Michael Hughes. Deluxe accommodations for dog and cat boarding, dog day care, effective dog training and gentle dog grooming are some of the award-winning services that await your furry BFF. Planning your summer vacation? Summer is the busy season for Holiday Barn Pet Resorts, so now is the time to make your reservations. Luxurious lodgings for canines and felines are available. From majestic suites and cozy cottages for dogs to multi-level kitty condos, you’re sure to find the purr-fect home away from home for your pet. Visit Holiday Barn for a tour of the campus and to meet the staff. Soon, they will become not only friends, but family. “Many of our customers tell us that their pets had a better vacation than they did,” Hughes remarked.

One of Holiday Barn’s most popular services is Dog Day Care*. Many pet owners have busy schedules, but they don’t want to leave their pups home all day. Doggie Day Care is the solution. Your dog will play with other dogs based on their size and temperament. Care givers will rotate play and rest periods, so your dog will be happy and satisfied at the end of the day.

Professional dog training is another service offered.

Holiday Barn will design a personal program to suit your dog’s specific needs. Their goal is to enhance the bond between you and your dog, while unleashing your pet’s full potential. Also, ask about their pet grooming and spa packages that will have your dog looking gorgeous and ready for “Best in Show.”

For a tail-wagging experience, contact Holiday Barn Pet Resorts to “shed some light” on further details: Glen Allen 3800 Mountain Road Glen Allen, VA 23060 804-672-2200 South of the James 614 Johnston Willis Drive Richmond, VA 23236 804-794-5400 * Health and safety requirements are listed at www.HolidayBarn.com

March / April 2018

Hanover Lifestyle 15

Iron Horse Restaurant

100 S. Railroad Ave., Ashland; 804-752-6410; IronHorseRestaurant.com For two decades, Iron Horse has served fine food and drink beside the railroad tracks in Ashland. Their seasonal, Southern modern American menu includes fresh regional seafood, hand-cut steaks and chef-inspired nightly specials.

Iron Horse provides several dining options, including lunch servings and sandwiches, dinner entrées, lighter fare and freshly made desserts, from the upscale-casual bistro on one side of the restaurant and the neighborhood pub atmosphere on the other. Settle into the Iron Horse to watch the trains go by as you enjoy their pumpkin soup, garnished with pumpkin seed, pomegranate-smoked paprika oil and a fried sage leaf. Like any quality seasonal menu, soup selection varies with availability of ingredients.

Sports Page Bar & Grille

504 England St., Ashland; 804-496-6700 8319 Bell Creek Rd., Mechanicsville; 804-559-4700 SportsPageBarAndGrille.com This Cheers-like restaurant, established in 2003 in Midlothian, is locally owned and operated. Since 2003, they’ve opened three additional locations, including Mechanicsville (2006) and Ashland (2015). Both Hanover locations have high-definition TVs for enjoying the big games, while the Mechanicsville location also offers 15 booths with individual TVs, pool tables and a kids’ game room. Warm up your engines with their hearty chili (pairing perfectly with winter spectator sports), savoring large chunks of beef and just the right complement of beans and spicy heat.

16 Hanover Lifestyle

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Pad Thai Restaurant

8460 Meadowbridge Rd., Mechanicsville; 804-559-0062 One happy Yelp reviewer said it best: “It’s a hole in the wall for sure, but I’d put the food up against any other Thai in Richmond.” You might even wonder if you’ve found the right place – unassuming building and gravel parking lot. The travel posters inside the small building begin building your confidence, as does the friendly family staff. But one bite of the food, reasonably priced and oh-so-authentic, removes all doubt that you have, indeed, come to just the right place – one you’ll come back to. The Tom Kha Gai soup starts your Thai meal off perfectly, with tender morsels of chicken in a delicious coconut milk broth, with lime dressing, lemongrass and ginger-like galangal.

Jake’s Place Restaurant & Market Photo: Josh Young

511 Thompson St., Ashland; 804-798-3287; JakesPlaceAshland.com

November March//December April 2018 2017

Jake’s Place has an unforgettable down-home quality that infuses everything from their storefront and country decor, to their carefully crafted and daily smoked barbecue. The Baby Back Ribs are slow-cooked, topped with Jake’s Sauce and then “flame-kissed on the grill” to give them that gorgeous dark glaze. Pair it with the sweet potato fries and their made-from-scratch hush puppies to experience the full meaning of Southern comfort food.

Hanover Lifestyle 17

tastebudz with Steve Cook

A new restaurant, a new food festival and a new TasteBudz feature. What more could one hope for.

PLUS – a big announcement at the end of TasteBudz. Don’t peek. You gotta read the whole thing first.

INDUSTRIAL STRENGTH DINING: There’s a new restaurant about to open in Hanover. It’s the Industrial Taphouse, located at 10392 Leadbetter Road, near the Hanover Industrial Airpark. Sarah Chapman, who owns the restaurant along with her husband Jeremy, tells me that her grandfather, Troy Leadbetter, developed the Air Park and the restaurant’s name is somewhat in tribute to him. Sarah’s mother owns the Air Park Shopping Center, where the restaurant is located.

News of the new dining spot is garnering a lot of interest out that way.

“Everybody has been asking when we are going to open,” Sarah says. The answer: “We’re hoping by the end of March,” she says. “Any time sooner would be fantastic.”

The couple have completely redone the kitchen in what was formerly O’Banks restaurant. And, Sarah says, they’ve also opened up what had been banquet space to expand seating in the restaurant. Although, she added, there is still room for private banquets.

As for the menu, Sarah describes it as classic American. “We’ll be offering gluten-free and vegetarian options, “ she says. When we spoke in late February, she and her husband were in the process of narrowing down their choice for the chef. The restaurant will also feature a full bar, with about 24 taps for beers (local, craft and some domestics) as well as taps for wine.

For starters, the Industrial Taphouse will offer live entertainment on Thursday evenings, but that could be expanded to the weekends, once the place gets up and running. The Industrial Taphouse will be open for lunch and dinner seven days a week.

18 Hanover Lifestyle

ISO HANOVER’S BEST COOK: We’re going to find out just who might be the best cook around these parts come March 24 when Center of the Universe Brewing is holding its first ever Southern Food Festival and Amateur Southern Dish Competition.

Here’s how it works: First, you go to their website (COTUBrewing. com) and decide which category or categories you want to enter. There’s a $5 entry fee for each dish yousubmit and the winners in the 10 categories (5 sweet/5 savory) will get a portion of the total entry fees paid for that particular category. You’ll submit your dish on March 17 or 18th and, says Chris Ray, co-owner of the brewery, a panel of judges made up of local chefs and restaurateurs will pick the winners.

Next comes the fun part. On the following Saturday, March 24, the winners will be announced at the Southern Food Festival. And although attendees at that event won’t be eating any of the submissions in the contest, there will be plenty of good ol’ Southern eating with five local food vendors on hand. These include the folks from Jake’s Place, who will be serving their Brunswick Stew, as well as Mama J’s, who are bringing their amazing fried catfish. In addition, there will be fried chicken from Mean Birds, barbecue from Grandpa Eddie’s Alabama Ribs and

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biscuits from Early Bird Biscuit Co. Small plates can be purchased for $3 each.

In keeping with the Southern theme of the day, the brewery will be releasing its new Peaches and Cream beer. There’ll be lots of good bluegrass music throughout the festival, which runs from 1 until 8 p.m.

Chris says the inspiration for the event came from the huge success of their Circle the Wagons BBQ competition that COTU sponsored last August. “We realized that folks around here sure do enjoy some food festivals.”

the region in an effort to find great deals on dining. I’m particularly impressed by the savings at The Sports Page Bar & Grille. With locations in both Mechanicsville and Ashland, you can score some great deals wherever your travels in Hanover might take you. In Mechanicsville, the lineup includes, 85 cent wings on Monday. Tuesday night is burger night.

You get a burger and fries for $6. Wednesdays could be called shrimp night for two reasons. First you get a pound of steamed shrimp for $12.95 and second, kids enjoy $2 meals. On Thursdays, it’s Philly cheesesteak and fries for $6. The Ashland location has similar specials. You can call them for details at 804-496-6700.

SHARE YOUR RESTAURANT NEWS, YOUR FRUGAL FOODIE FINDS OR YOUR GREAT DINING EXPERIENCES. EMAIL US AT TASTEBUDZ@RICHMONDNAVIGATOR.COM. AND HERE’S THE BIG NEWS: WE WANT YOU TO HELP US FIND THE BEST HOT DOGS IN HANOVER. THERE’S EVEN A CHANCE TO WIN SOME GIFT CERTIFICATES TO LOCAL RESTAURANTS IF YOU’LL HELP US OUT. TO SUBMIT YOUR RECOMMENDATION, GO TO RICHMONDNAVIGATOR.COM/CONTESTS.

THE FRUGAL FOODIE: We’re pleased to introduce a brand new feature to TasteBudz. It’s something that I like to call the Frugal Foodie. We scour

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Read Tastebudz Online each week at RichmondNavigator. com. If you have any restaurant news or recommendations, email us at TasteBudz@RichmondNavigator.com.

GREAT FOOD IN A COZY FARMHOUSE ATMOSPHERE

Carne & Vitello __________________

emium Steaks, Veal Dishes & ill Specialties

Pasta | Pizza | Subs | Seafood | Steak Dine In or Take Out • Sunday Brunch 11am-2pm

7500 Jackson Arch Drive, Suite H, Mechanicsville 804.730.0900 | TheGiambancos.com

Open for Lunch & Dinner: Wednesday through Sunday | Sunday Brunch 10:00 a.m.

804-784-2000 | Facebook@LolasFarmhouseBistro | www.lolasfarmhousebistro.com

1840 Manakin Road, Manakin, Virginia 23103 | Just 4 Miles West of Short Pump Mall

March / April 2018

Hanover Lifestyle 19

Andy’s Restaurant and Lounge

River Bound Café

Come in for the welcoming atmosphere and stay for homemade comfort food, burgers, and more. Enjoy free pool on Wednesdays Monday - Saturday: 3 to 7 p.m.

Rails - $3 Beer - $2.50 One More Thing: Andy’s has been the go-to lunch destination in Ashland for over 30 years.

River Bound Café has been a Hanover staple for over 10 years serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner with a smile. Head on over for $6 Burger Mondays! River Bound Café now offers catering. Make your event shine with “budget-friendly” options. They can accommodate special dietary needs, and offer pick-up, delivery or full service staffing.

412 England St. | 804-752-2990

The Giambanco’s Italian Grill

7500 Jackson Arch Dr. | 804-730-0900 | TheGiambancos.com Open for lunch and dinner serving soups, salads, sandwiches and all your Italian favorite dishes. Local craft beers and an extensive wine list.

Tuesday through Friday 3 to 6 p.m.

Mixed drinks (all) - $2.00 off Martinis (Tuesdays only) - $6 Margaritas (Sundays only) - $4 One More Thing: Tuesday is date night. Get a 4-course meal for two for $25. Wine Down Wednesdays feature half price on all bottles of wine. On Thursdays, enjoy $2 drafts.

T O H OG! D

8005 Creighton Pkwy. | 804-559-3447

Monday - Friday: 3 to 7 p.m.

Craft beer - $5 Non-craft beer - $3 One More Thing: The café offers seven different flavors of Mimosas.

Frequently, they’ll offer special pricing on Sundays for Mimosas and Bloody Marys.

The Iron Horse Restaurant 100 S. Railroad Ave. | 804-752-6410

Upscale dining in a warm, casual atmosphere. The Iron Horse present live music on most weekend nights and on first Thursdays. There is never cover charge. Check their Facebook page for upcoming performances.

Monday - Friday: 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Beer, domestic bottles - $2.50 Beer, draft (10-oz) - $4.50 Wine, Cabernet Veneto or Pinot Grigio - $5 One More Thing: Enjoy live music on most weekends, plus frequently on Wednesday evenings. There’s never a cover charge.

Kreggers Tap and Table

9523 Kings Charter Drive, Ashland; 804-299-2176; KreggersRVA.com Burgers, barbecue, beer and so much more.

Monday through Sunday 3:30 to 6:30 Beer, drafts and bottles - $1 off Wine on tap - $1 off Well drinks - $1 off One More Thing: Daily specials include:

Let’s be frank. We all have our favorite hot dog. Where do you go for your favorite? We’re searching for the region’s best hot dogs.

Share your favorite restaurant hot dog for a chance to win some great dining gift certificates.

WEINERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED IN THE MAY/JUNE ISSUE OF HANOVER LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE.

Monday – Enjoy an 8-oz. strip steak and your choice of two sides - $7 – a portion of the proceeds goes to a local charity. (11 a.m. to 11 p.m.)

Tuesday - Draft Day $2, $3 and $4 drafts (11 a.m. to 9 p.m.)

Wednesday - Half-off carafes of wine, plus all whiskey is half-price (5 to 9 p.m.)

Thursday - $1.00 off all Kreggers craft cocktails (5 to 9 p.m.)

Saturday & Sunday - Bloody Mary bar - $9; “Almost bottomless” mimosas - $9.95 with 25 cent refills (10 a.m. – 2 p.m.) Prime rib ($12.99 – Sunday only)

For a more extensive guide visit RichmondNavigator.com/flavor/happy-hour-guide

Enter online at RichmondNavigator.com/Contests 20 Hanover Lifestyle

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Events Calendar compiled by Cosima Pellis

ties begin at 10am in Rhythm Hall. LolliPops concerts are ideal for children ages 5 and up, but music lovers of all ages are welcome.

11:00am / Tickets $10 for children; $20 for adults, available at the Dominion Energy Center and Altria Theater box offices, by phone at 804-514-3849 and online at Etix.com / Carpenter Theater, 600 E Grace St, Richmond / DominionEnergyCenter.com

Dominion Energy Jazz Café Groove to an eclectic mix of jazz ensembles every Thursday, 6 – 9 p.m., at VMFA’s Best Café. Dominion Energy Jazz Café is presented to the public by the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, in conjunction with the Richmond Jazz Society, free of charge! Light fare and beverages are available for sale. Artists subject to change.

MARCH 15 – APRIL 8

Erma Bombeck: At Wit’s End For over 30 years, humorist Erma Bombeck entertained and enlightened readers as she chronicled the life of a suburban housewife.

This hilariously entertaining one-woman play, largely pulled from Bombeck’s columns and best-selling books, celebrates Bombeck’s wit and wisdom and her contribution to American journalism.

Show times can be found on VA-Rep.org / Ticket prices vary and can be found on VA-Rep.org / Hanover Tavern, 13181 Hanover Courthouse Road Hanover, VA 23069 / VA-Rep.org

MARCH 16 – 18

Mid-Atlantic RV Expo Virginia’s largest RV Expo. Every kind of recreational vehicle you can imagine. Something for everyone’s budget.

See website for times and ticket prices / The Meadow Event Park, 13048 Dawn Blvd., Doswell, 804-4677038 / VirginiasBestRVExpo.com

MARCH 17

Peter and the Wolf — Richmond Symphony LolliPops Prokofiev’s timeless tale of boy vs. wolf comes to life in Really Inventive Stuff’s signature performance. This concert is a perfect introduction to music and the instruments of the orchestra. Arrive early for a free pre to concert festival featuring their instrument petting zoo and enjoy interactive activities for the whole family. Pre to concert festivi-

The Honky Tonk Experience is comprised of five of Richmond’s most respected musicians. Each member has forged his own reputation by playing in a variety of other bands over the past 20 years. They have also shared the stage with several national acts including Travis Tritt, Dale Watson, Webb Wilder and Junior Brown.

7 p.m. / $17 in advance; 21 at the door / Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen, 2880 Mountain Rd, Glen Allen, VA 23060 / ArtsGlenAllen.com

MARCH 15, 22, 29

6p.m. to 9p.m. / Free, no registration required / VMFA, 200 N Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23220 / VMFA.Museum.com

APRIL 6

An Evening of Country/Honky Tonk Experience

APRIL 9

History Happy Hour- Richmond: Lincoln in Richmond

MARCH 23 – 25

Virginia Horse Festival Three days of everything equestrian: clinics; demonstrations and seminars; great shopping for tack, riding apparel and horse feed and care products; pro rodeo; canine agility shows; and lots more.

See website for hours / $20 – three day pass (advance); $12 – one day ticket (advance) / The Meadow Event Park, 13191 Dawn Boulevard, Doswell / VirginiaHorseFestival.com

MARCH 24

Southern Food Festival The first ever Southern Food Festival and Amateur Southern Dish Competition. Five incredible food vendors (Grandpa Eddie’s Alabama Ribs & BBQ, Mean Bird, Jake’s Place, Mama J’s, and Early Bird Biscuit Co.) will each show off their Southern Food Specialty with $3 small plates . Two bands and two special beer releases.

Just one day after the Union Army occupied Richmond - and ten days before he was shot - President Abraham Lincoln arrived to tour the city. Explore what he saw here, the decisions he made, and how his visit offers a unique look into his evolving vision of a postwar future. With Mike Gorman, Richmond National Battlefield Park. Drinks are on you, History is on us.

6:30pm / Free / Bottom’s Up Pizza, 1700 Dock St, Richmond, VA 23223 / ACWM.org

APRIL 18 – 19

Eleone Dance Theatre Hailing from Philadelphia, this exhilarating and “soul-stirring” dance company goes beyond the traditional dance performance to deliver an “experience” that inspires and energizes audiences and dance fans of all ages! The company has a diverse repertoire of works that are contemporary, modern, spiritual, rhythm and blues, African, as well as hip-hop in theme.

April 18, 7pm; April 19, 9:30am and 11:30am / Tickets $12-$25 / Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen, 2880 Mountain Rd, Glen Allen, VA 23060 / ArtsGlenAllen.com

1 to 8 p.m. / Free admission / Center of the Universe Brewing, 11293 Air Park Road, Ashland, 804-3680299 / COTUBrewing.com

APRIL 2 – 6

Spring Break ArtVenture At the Visual Arts Center of Richmond, kids make real art with the help of some of Richmond’s most prominent professional artists. Spring Break ArtVenture is a one-week art camp timed to coincide with the spring break holiday in area public schools.

Morning classes 9am-noon, Afternoon classes 1-4pm / Prices can be found at Visarts.org / Visual Arts Center, 1812 W Main St, Richmond, VA 23220 / Visarts.org

March / April 2018

APRIL 20 – 21

Race Weekend Racing under the lights with the Toyotacare 250 on Friday night and the Toyota Owners 400 NASCAR Cup Series on Saturday night.

See website for times and ticket options / Richmond Raceway, 600 E. Laburnum Ave., 866-455-RACE (7223) / RichmondRaceway.com

Hanover Lifestyle 21

HOME

Making a

Splash Pools and Spas for the Home

By Lisa Puster

I

t’s been a long winter, and the thought of cooling off in your own sparkling pool or soaking in your own cozy hot tub probably seems like an unrealistic summer fantasy. But wouldn’t it be dreamy to have a vacation destination in your own backyard? It could be more of a reality than you think!

With several different options available, the most common inground pool styles are vinyl liner, fiberglass and concrete. Here are the advantages, disadvantages and budget needed for all three:

custom shapes cost more, it’s still typically less than your average fiberglass or concrete pool.

Choosing Your Pool

Budget Needed: $25,000-$35,000

Vinyl Liner Biggest Advantage: Installation Cost. Vinyl liner pools are the most affordable to install, generally costing $10,000 less than fiberglass or concrete pools. While most vinyl liner pools are rectangular, it’s possible to customize the shape, size and depth of the pool. Although 22 Hanover Lifestyle

Biggest Disadvantage: Replacing the Liner. While the initial cost of installing a vinyl liner pool may be less, the liner does need to be replaced every five to nine years, or sooner if there’s any damage. This can cost as much as $5,000, offsetting the initial low-cost of the pool within the first 10 years and over its lifetime.

Fiberglass Biggest Advantage: Lower Cost of Ownership. Even though the initial cost of fiberglass is more than vinyl, you’ll spend less over the life of your fiberglass pool when you figure in the continued cost of re-

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you the flexibility to customize the shape and design of the pool, which is ideal for those who desire an extremely deep or large pool, or a pool with custom ledges, tilework or other special features. Concrete pools are also extremely durable, meaning no damage to the pool surface from sharp objects, making concrete pools dog-friendly too!

Biggest Disadvantage: Pricier Installation and Maintenance. While concrete’s design flexibility is its biggest selling point, it also comes with a bigger price, including higher maintenance, more chemicals, salt water system incompatibility, slow installation time and higher cost of ownership.

Budget Needed: $50,000 and up A Little Bubbly for the Backyard A spa or hot tub can boost the appeal of your backyard, providing year-round, warm, bubbly entertainment. The two main types of spas/hot tubs are portable and in-ground. Most portable spas are made of acrylic (not including inflatable hot tubs), while most inground varieties are concrete.

Portable Biggest Advantage: All-in-One Package. Portable spa units often come conveniently equipped with the spa, support equipment and skirting that hides the equipment. These spas are easy to install, ideal for smaller spaces, energy efficient and transportable, if needed.

Biggest Disadvantage: Not Customizable. Most portable spas offer limited sizes and shapes since they are manufactured off site in preset dimensions. They can also be difficult to disguise and don’t blend easily into the landscaping since they sit above ground.

Budget Needed: $2,000 to $12,000 “Bullfrog Spas are the most customizable and energy efficient spas on the market,” says Jacob Clements from Pla-Mor Pools, central Virginia’s only dealer of Bullfrog Spas. “Their patented jetpack technology reduces spa plumbing by up to 90 percent and provides customers with 16 different massage styles, allowing them to move their favorite massage into their favorite seat.”

placing the vinyl liners. Other advantages to fiberglass pools include quick installation, low maintenance, durability and compatibility with salt water systems.

Biggest Disadvantage: Not Customizable. Fiberglass pools have a higher initial cost than vinyl liner pools and usually lack the ability to customize the shape, size or depth of the pool. If you’re looking for a pool that’s deeper or a special shape, fiberglass isn’t the best option since the pool shells are manufactured off site in limited shapes and sizes.

In-Ground Biggest Advantage: Customizable Shape and Size. Since in-ground spas are built onsite and not manufactured offsite, your spa can be completely customized to your liking or incorporated into a deck, patio, pool or landscaped area, creating an oasis in your own backyard.

Biggest Disadvantage: Pricier Installation. In-ground spas are costlier than portable spas since you are basically constructing a jetted, mini concrete pool that requires a professional builder. Construction costs also increase when adding additional custom features, such as tile or extra jets.

Budget Needed: $15,000 to $20,000

Budget Needed: $35,000 and up Concrete Biggest Advantage: Customizable and Durable. Concrete allows

Loving the idea of a pool and/or spa in your backyard? Contact a pool and spa professional for a free consultation and see if your fantasy can be a dream come true!

March / April 2018

Hanover Lifestyle 23

HOME

OUTDOOR SPACES

It’s What’s on the Outside that Counts

by Angela Weight

N

ot too long ago, a rectangular patio or deck, complete with barbecue grill and picnic table, was the extent of most homes’ outdoor living spaces. And grilling up a few steaks on the weekends was pretty much all we expected from those areas.

Boy, have times changed! Today, porches, patios and decks are as integral a part of our homes as our kitchens and family rooms. From savoring the sunrise over coffee on a favorite porch rocker to gathering around the fire pit for s’mores and tall tales, our homes’ exteriors are becoming the backdrops for our favorite pastimes.

“A lot of my clients see their outdoor areas as a place to escape that’s still part of the house,” says Anthony Miller, owner of A Miller Renovation. “Another room off the house that’s just a little bit different.”

Looking to upgrade your outdoor living area? Here’s a glimpse of the latest trends and materials to beautify your exterior and increase your resale value.

Patio, Deck or Screened Porch?

With all the poured concrete, pavers and natural stone designs available, patios lend themselves to a wide variety of design options and layouts.

“People like patios because they’re lower down and can offer more privacy, especially with smaller lot sizes,” says Mark McAuliffe, vice president of Cross Creek Nursery and Landscaping. When adding a patio, homeowners often turn

24 Hanover Lifestyle

to pavers. “Our clients are using multi-dimensional pavers for pool decking and patios,” McAuliffe adds. “They’re more natural looking than ever before and can mirror the look of stone without the cost.” Available in dozens, if not hundreds of shapes, sizes and colors, concrete pavers offer tremendous design variety without potential cracks that can ruin the entire floor surface, as with poured concrete Speaking of the poured stuff, homeowners these days are embracing all sorts of stained and stamped concrete designs that can easily pass for high-end stone. One drawback is that concrete is prone to cracking in cold winter weather and not easily repaired.

While decks are still fairly popular, the way they’re built is changing.

Instead of wood, Miller’s clients are opting for durable composite materials and aluminum railings. “Ninety-five percent of people are going with maintenance free options and getting away from anything that needs to be power washed, stained or sealed.” For example, Trex composite decking resists rot, warp, splintering and termites and is backed by a 25-year limited residential fade and stain warranty.

Screened porches are still the surest way to enjoy the breeze without battling the bugs. Vinyl-coated fiberglass screening is perfect for keeping insects out, but it’s no match for seasonal pollen. To keep the fresh air in and the pollen out, Miller recommends using PollenTec screening.

Though more expensive, it’s an effective way to reduce allergens.

Fire Pits, Always a Hit For those who prefer gathering friends over gathering armfuls of wood, gas Photo: Closetpopularity Factory fire pitscourtesy are gaining and are becoming more and more high tech.

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A lot of my clients see their outdoor areas as a place to escape that’s still part of the house – Anthony Miller, A Miller Renovation

The Boreal Complete Heat gas fire pit table, with soft LED lighting, provides high and low warming vents to keep your toes as toasty as your fingers.

os and decks, keeping those areas up to 20 degrees cooler on hot, sunny days. Available in widths up to 18 feet, they’re relatively simple to install.

The Awning of a New Era Since the weather doesn’t come with a remote control, the next best thing is a retractable awning. Throw some shade and rain protection over your outdoor spaces whenever you and the weather can’t agree. Sunsetter brand motorized awnings provide up to 11 feet of colorful cover for pati-

Gazebo A-Glow If, upon hearing the word gazebo, you picture a round white structure with lots of gingerbread trim, take note that today’s models aren’t your grandma’s gazebos. They can be any shape, color or style you choose. For serious outdoor entertainers, there’s no better investment. Add a grilling station, a bar, a cozy sectional, a wooden swing, a fireplace and big screen TV, or all of the above, and you’ve got the ultimate space to host friends and family, or simply unwind and savor your surroundings.

Whether you’re doing a full-scale outdoor room or a simple back porch update, be true to your lifestyle, taste and budget. Check out design magazines and sites like Pinterest for ideas and have fun creating an at-home sanctuary you’ll look forward to escaping to.

March / April 2018

Hanover Lifestyle 25

TRAVEL

Travel Navigator Your Guide to All Things Travel

Kilmarnock The Hub of the Northern Neck SMALL TOWN VIRGINIA:

J

by Steve Cook

ust drive down Kilmarnock’s Main Street and you’ll get an idea of what Small Town Virginia is all about. Besides an almost movie setlike Main Street, Kilmarnock offers virtually anything you might hope to find in a 21st century small town, and much more.

Kilmarnock has long been the hub for shopping in the Northern Neck says Carroll Lee Ashburn, chairman of the board at the Kilmarnock Museum (76 N. Main St.).

Nearly 400 years ago, when the area was first settled, it was known as “Crossroads.” Two Indian trails intersected at the point where the town now stands. Those two trails take somewhat the same paths of what are today Routes 3 and 200. In 1764, Robert Gilmour, an agent for a mercantile firm based in Glasgow, Scotland, was instrumental in giving the name of “Kilmarnock” to the location.

Gilmour, it is believed, owned property in Kilmarnock, Scotland.

Through the years, the town has been the place where locals came to shop. True, big box stores on the outskirts of town have made headway, but for a unique experience, you really need to do what I did not too long ago and take a stroll down lovely and lively Main Street. During my visit, I stopped in at Burke’s Jewelers (86 S. Main St.). Fred and Karen Burke are

26 Hanover Lifestyle

advertisers in this magazine and I wanted to meet them. It was my first time in the store and I was very impressed. This is a store that could easily rival any jewelry store in any shopping mall in the country. Other shops along the way are equally impressive.

Anne Paparella, executive director for the Lancaster by the Bay Chamber of Commerce describes Kilmarnock’s Main Street as offering, “great boutique shopping, with fabulous businesses that you just can’t find in other places.”

I ask her to name her favorite shops. “Every one of my chamber members is my favorite,” she laughs.

Even though she won’t pick favorites, she does tell me a little about what’s in store when you shop Main Street. “There are great little gift and furniture stores,” she says, “and cute little women’s boutiques for every price range. There’s also a big antique and second hand store, which people love.”

Anne mentions another plus that comes when you shop on Kilmarnock’s Main Street. “Almost every shop is operated by the owners.”

Fred, over at Burke’s Jewelers, is a good example of the type of folks you’ll meet; folks who’ll take the time to stop and chat. Fred tells me that

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his parents opened the store in 1969. “I was 12 at the time. I started off sweeping the floors and cleaning the bathrooms,” he says.

I ask him to tell me more about his little town. Both Fred and his parents hail from Kilmarnock. He’s lived here most of his life, all but about nine years when he moved to Richmond and worked in a couple of jewelry stores. “When I was 20,” Fred says, “I couldn’t wait to get out of here. When I was 30 I couldn’t wait to get back.”

He explains that the thing that drove him away is the thing he most appreciates today…the people. “(Back then) I felt like everybody knew my business, that they were looking over my shoulder.” With age comes a bit of wisdom. Fred says that now that he’s older he realizes how important it is to have neighbors that look out for one another. He describes the residents in the area as “compassionate towards their neighbors.”

Anne agrees in her assessment of the townsfolk. She acknowledges that when her parents retired and moved to the Northern Neck, she wasn’t excited about the move. She was a senior in high school at the time. “If you moved here from outside the area, you are called ‘Come-here’s,’ she says. I tell people I was dragged here.”

Today, she has a greater appreciation for the locals describing them as “kind, loving forgiving, helpful.” She also brags about the “laid back pace” you’ll discover when you visit. That’s not to say that there’s nothing to do.

“There are a lot of really cool things to do,” Anne says. “Water is the appeal. There are beautiful rivers and creeks. If you love the outdoors , this is a wonderful place to come.”

Anne slips and lets me in on a little secret when she says, “One of the

best things you can do here is walk on one of the most pristine beaches you’ve ever seen.”

I immediately had to know where this beach is. “It’s our best kept secret,” she says, “Hughlett Point, on the Chesapeake Bay.” While I’d never heard of Hughlett Point, I did a little research. It’s a state Natural Area Preserve located about 10 miles from “downtown” Kilmarnock. The state’s website describes it as offering “exemplary undeveloped beaches, dunes, and upland forests.”

Everyone I speak with during my visit raves about the water-related activities. Jameson Crandall is in his mid-twenties and works in the jewelry store. When I ask him what Kilmarnock has to offer young people, he answers, “Summertime here is a lot more fun than wintertime.

There’s boating, fishing tubing skiing… lots of public beaches. The water is the biggest attraction.”

There’s another attraction – the newly completed Town Centre Park in Kilmarnock. I first heard about the park from Susan Cockrell, the deputy town manager. “You’ve got to see the new amphitheater,” she tells me when I visit in her office on Main Street. The park’s open-air amphitheater opened towards the end of last fall. Susan says a variety of live performances are scheduled throughout this season. The park also offers a splash pad for kids. And, come May, the park will host a true farmers’ market on the first Saturday of each month. This will be a traditional farm to table and bay to table market.

Kilmarnock is, indeed a cool, little town. “It’s a great place for foodies,” Anne says. She adds that there seems to be something going on all the time. For instance, on June 30, the Chamber will be sponsoring Rhythm & Brews By the Bay (phone 804-435-6092 for more info) and mid-November brings the annual Taste of the Bay (TasteOfTheBay.com) at the Tides Inn in Irvington, just five miles from Kilmarnock.

When you come to Kilmarnock, you truly have come to the crossroads of the Northern Neck. Now, it’s time to share the secret: This place has it all.

For more information on all that Kilmarnock and the surrounding area has to offer, visit KilmarnockVA.com or VirginiasRiverRealm.com

March / April 2018

Hanover Lifestyle 27

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