WHY ARE THESE RICHMONDERS SMILING?
Best thing I’ve ever done for myself! I’ve lost 3 dress sizes!
I lost 80 lbs, I’m off all meds and I feel great!
Lost 25 lbs; turned my Type II From couch pototo to marathon runner! Lost 100 lbs! diabetes around for good!
From wheelchair to a cane, ZG saved my life! Lost 50 lbs!
Lost 30 lbs. No more A-fib. Lost 4 inches in waist.
I lost 55 lbs. Simply put, ZG WORKS.
Lost over 30 lbs and 5 inches off my waist!
With a coach most anything is possible! I lost 20 lbs!
I lost 59 lbs and got off my diabetes meds!
I lost 50 lbs and 4 dress sizes I lost 140 lbs, 20” off my waist ZG Atmosphere is supportive. Down 30 lbs & eliminated in Sundays Only Program! or reduced three meds. and got off all my meds! I’ve lost 38 lbs; lowered BP.
Lost 120 lbs and keeping it off!
I wouldn’t be living today without ZG.
Lost 30 lbs. Life doesn’t have to get in the way.
I lost 76 lbs and got off all meds!
Love the friendly people and the zumba classes!
Lost 11 lb; no more shoulder, knee or leg pain. Thanks ZG!
Life changing results in just 100 days
This program works; I lost 73 lbs!
I lost 55 lbs and sleep much better!
I lost 55 lbs and 37 inches. Thanks, ZG!
I lost over 200 lbs and got off all my meds!
Lost 20 lbs and lowered BP in 10 weeks.
call 358-1000
it’s the best
kept secret
in richmond
NOV. 26 ses Start OCT. 17 & as Cl . 00 10 8. 35 4. Call 80
I lost 57 lbs and 10” off my waist.
I lost almost 20 lbs, have energy. Making this my life!
Lost weight, lowered my chol. Lost 70 lbs, 6”off my waist; and triglyc. in 10 weeks. normalized my blood sugar.
Lost 45 lbs and have improved my BP and cholesterol.
Lowered cholesterol and feel younger.
Lost almost 50 lbs. ZG has made me a health athlete!
Lost 22 lbs and off Lipitor after 20 years.
Lost 63 lbs and still losing!
I lost 45 lbs and lowered my blood pressure meds!
Lost 52 lbs and off all diabetic and cholesterol meds
I lost 61 lbs in 3 months!
It works in the “real” world. Lost 47 lbs.
Lost 82 lbs. ZG has changed my life!
It’s worth every penny! Love the classes and the trainers.
I’ve lost over 120 lbs since Nov ‘09!
Great trainers; improved glucose, BP & chol. Lost 20 lbs.
Love the fun Zumba classes!
I lost50over 30now lbs. Lost lbs and haveina 2008. waistline!
Lost 35 lbs and 5 inches off my waist since March ‘12.
Lost 30 lbs; lowered medications and BP!
You really gotta keep at it! 53 pounds lighter!
I’ve lost 115 lbs, normalized BP, chol, blood sugar
I lost 44 lbs and 6 inches in my waist!
Lost 40 lbs doing the Sundays Only Program!
Lost 45 lbs! Great support at ZG!
Love riding the bikes and made lots of friends.
ZG helped me help myself. Lost 18 lbs. & feel better than ever!
Lost 70 lbs; best decision I ever made!
Lowered my cholesterol and blood sugar
I lost 75 lbs and got off all diabetic meds.
Wow! It’s awesome! I lost 60 lbs!
I’ve lost 17 lbs; I’m stronger Woe is me, before the ZG Key. I than I’ve been in 15 years. lost 26 lbs and reduced meds!
Why are they smiling? Because all 60 and 1000s more of your Richmond neighbors, coworkers and friends are losing weight, cutting meds, increasing metabolism, improving sleep, getting healthier and just feeling better. THE ZG KEY® 10 WEEK PROGRAM, developed by a physician and staff of certified trainers and professionals, combines medical
& nutrition lectures by Dr. Madge Zacharias, structured, supervised cardio interval and strength training workouts, one-on-one counseling, with lots of motivation & support, all under one roof, for one price. Begins, and ends, with a health assessment and labwork. Call 804-358-1000 for a (free/no obligation) health assessment and tour.
WORK/TRAVEL ALL THE TIME? NO TIME FOR YOU? CALL ABOUT SUNDAYS-ONLY PROGRAM, STARTING DECEMBER 2
For info email: MJGaney@ZGHealth.com 1311 Palmyra Ave. Richmond, VA
zghealth.com
Qualifies for most Flexible Spending accounts; no interest payment plans available.
Follow us!
A beautiful smile makes all the difference. At Dr. Baxter Perkinson & Associates, we’ll take care of all of your family’s dental needs under one roof. We even have specialists in orthodontics, periodontics and prosthodontics. We also offer the very latest in cosmetic dentistry – whitening, bonding, and even permanent tooth replacement using implants. For more information, call one of our 11 convenient offices today.
www.VAdentist.com
Huguenot - Bon Air 1612 Huguenot Rd. 794-9789
Ironbridge - Courthouse 6441 Ironbridge Rd. 743-8166
West End - Staples Mill 10212 Staples Mill Rd. 672-4900
Mechanicsville - Hanover 6353 Mechanicsville Tnpk. 730-3400
Powhatan 2625 Anderson Hwy. 598-3000
Midlothian - 288 14253 Midlothian Tnpk. 379-1011
Atlee - Ashland 10500 Atlee Station Rd. 550-3324
West End - Short Pump 12390 Three Chopt Rd. 364-7010
Brandermill - Woodlake 6510 Harbour View Ct. 739-6500
Chester - Rt.1/Rt.10 12712 Jefferson Davis Hwy. 751-0300
Colonial Heights 209 Temple Ave. 526-4822
F a m i ly D e n t i s t r y ~ O r t h O D O n t i c s ~ P e r i O D O n t i c s ~ P e r m a n e n t t O O t h r e P l a c e m e n t
Contents November/December 2012
PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER William J. Davis, Jr. VICE-PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Cheryl T. Davis MANAGING EDITOR Alaina Rauth CREATIVE DIRECTORS Lorraine Meade Trey Tyler DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Barry Cook ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Jared Davis Catherine Oakley Ann Small PHOTOGRAPHERS Tim Hill Robert Thomas CONTRIBUTORS Vicki O’Neal, ASID, CID, VSLD Steve Cook Jennifer Saunders Isaac Sweeny Tammie Wersinger
Features 8 12 17
Holiday Shopping Ideas in our 2012 Annual Shoppers’ Guide Quench Your Thirst at the Center of the Universe Book Your Next Party at The Venue
Family 7 When Your Student May Be Struggling
Flavor 13 Maitre D' Restaurant Highlights 18 In Search of International Dishes 21 Hanover’s Own Bell Café
12
What’s Happening 15 Calendar of Events
Senior Living 22 Tips for Aging Gracefully: How We Socialize
Health 24 Winter Asthma Awareness
Hanover Lifestyle Magazine is published bi-monthly by Advertising Concepts, Inc., 6301 Harbourside Drive, Midlothian VA 23112. (804) 639-9994. www.RichmondNavigator.com Comments and suggestions are welcome by emailing info@RichmondNavigator.com. All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.
8
22
Around The House 27 Home is Where The Heart Office Is
Destinations 30 Let the Music Call You Home...To Nashville
A Publication Of:
All Articles And cOntents Of this MAgAzine Are nOt necessArily the OPiniOns Or thOughts Of hAnOver lifestyle MAgAzine, Advertising cOncePts, inc., Or the Publisher.
www.RichmondNavigator.com
About our cover: We went in search of great international dishes and discovered these delicious shrimp tostadas at Plaza Azteca.We tell you about this and other delightful dishes on page 18. Photo by Tim Hill.
5
Gas Fireplace Inserts FV44i by Mendota Hearth
Back-Up Heat... Radiant Warmth
Are you nervous about losing your home heat during the next power outage? If so, consider installing a gas fireplace insert into your existing masonry fireplace. A gas fireplace insert is the perfect combination of style and heat. Designed to fit into an existing wood-burning fireplace, gas inserts are essentially a metal firebox with decorative logs that simulate a real wood fire. Inserts vent through the chimney carrying exhaust out and bringing fresh air in. Most gas inserts come equipped with blowers, remotes and even decorative lighting. One of the best features of a gas insert is the radiant heat transferred from its glass front. This feature enables the gas insert to heat even without its blower. When a power outage strikes, warm heat will radiate from the insert keeping you and your family toasty warm – no generator required! Even for homeowners with no existing gas service, gas inserts can be an option when fueled by a liquid propane tank. Homeowners can choose traditional log sets or contemporary glass burners along with many decorative options. The Hearth and Home Shoppe has a wide variety of gas inserts, as well as gas logs to provide you with back-up heat and radiant warmth.
Gas • Wood • Pellet • electric stoves • inserts • Gas loGs 8154 Mechanicsville Tnpk. 730-3800 hearthandhomeshoppe.com 6
November/December 2012
family Warning SignS:
When Your Student May Be Struggling Editorial Note: Because of our responsibility to the well-being of our sources, this publication has decided that school teachers mentioned in this article shall remain anonymous. by Isaac Sweeney
S
chool is back in full swing and
together are quite valuable.” While the report
claiming to be bored may also be trying to
parents have high hopes for their
is aimed at schools and school boards, it
avoid work because they don’t understand
children. As the school year moves
definitely reveals that the first step to recog-
the material.
forward, some parents have concerns about
nizing student struggles is for parents to be
their child's progress. While countless factors
involved and attentive. Homework is one of
may contribute to children’s struggles, it’s
the best ways to do that.
important for parents to be able to recognize some of the early warning signs. Howard W. Stracke, owner and director of Tutoring Club of Glen Allen, says, “With the SOLs dictating a rapid pace of teaching in schools today and with ever larger class sizes, students can miss key instruction and easily get behind.” One area school teacher with whom we
Look for warning signs as frustration
Physical Ailment Tummy aches, headaches … these happen to all children. When they keep happen-
with homework, excuses for not doing
ing, it could be because of an underlying aca-
homework, and spending too much time on
demic problem. Don’t assume this, one source
homework.
says. Rather, take your child to the doctor, but if the doctor can’t determine a cause, then con-
Misbehavior If you have a typically well-behaved child who starts to act out in class, it could
sider alternatives. Perhaps the student doesn’t want to go to school, or maybe the student has symptoms of school-related stress.
be a sign of frustration with the material.
Don’t Overlook the Obvious
spoke agrees that SOLs, along with budget
Nearly all of our sources list misbehavior as
restraints, have had adverse effects on many
a sign of academic trouble and many say
students. “What happens,” the teacher says,
that some parents will chalk bad behavior
teachers are the obvious signs that a stu-
“is that good students can miss one or two
up to adolescence or laziness when it’s really
dent may be struggling. Don’t take these
quickly covered things that could have a
because the student is falling behind.
lightly. Don’t let failing grade after failing
tremendous effect on their success later in the year.” Stracke, as well as Stacy Mitchell, owner and executive director of Huntington Learning Center, along with several area educators, provided the following warning signs that your student may be struggling.
Homework Issues: The Big One According to an August 2011 report
Slipping grades and phone calls from
grade pile up before taking action. As with
Lack of Motivation This is hard to judge because, as one
all of these steps, communication is key. Communication with your children, with
teacher says about work, particularly home-
other parents, with school personnel, like
work, “They just may not want to do it.” If
school counselors, and with teachers. Ask
resistance to schoolwork continues for a
questions and encourage your children to
couple of weeks or if it changes dramatically,
seek help when they need it. As one teach-
then it could be a sign of a child’s academic
er says, “It is important to keep in mind that
struggles.
although most students want to do well,
Being bored also falls here. A child’s
they often feel inadequate if they have to
from The Center for Public Education on
boredom could be genuine, because the
ask for extra help. It is important that teach-
how parent involvement affects student
child has already grasped the material and
ers and parents help children understand
achievement, “For elementary and middle
is no longer interested. If this is the case
that seeking help when they need it is a
school-age children, interactive homework
and the grades concur, then the child could
sign of strength rather than weakness.” n
assignments that bring parents and children
belong in a gifted program. But students
www.RichmondNavigator.com
7
• 2012 Annual •
S hoppers’ Guide by Tammie Wersinger. Photos by Robert Thomas.
ost shoppers have experienced the euphoric rush that comes from finding a great deal on that long-sought-after designer handbag or a perfect pair of shoes. With the cooler weather and the vast array of shopping choices, it’s time to discover what many already know – that Richmond is a shopper’s paradise. Whether it’s a high-end department store, like Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue, a charming boutique or gallery filled with local art, the area has something for shoppers on any budget. The Greater Richmond area boasts several upscale shopping centers, and too many quaint boutiques and vintage stores to number. Shoppers can stroll through Carytown for upscale boutiques and shops with hard-tofind clothing labels, home décor, antiques and other unique items. Short Pump, which has Nordstrom as one of its anchors, and Stony Point, with its Saks Fifth Avenue, are upscale, open-air shopping areas that have great shops, top-notch restaurants and special events to pull in the crowds. Willow Lawn recently completed a multi-million dollar renovation, adding a community gathering place with a central stage and a large children’s play area. For those not into worrying about inclement weather while going from store to store, Chesterfield Towne Center, Regency Square Mall, and Virginia Center Commons have your favorite specialty shops and department stores, plus great eateries – all in a classic indoorshopping environment. Kelly Wilkes, marketing manager for Chesterfield Towne Center, said that the mall’s hours – like many area stores and shopping centers – will be extended from the beginning of December through the end of the shopping season. Armed with the right information, there’s no need to shop less, just shop smarter. You’ll still look and feel good, without breaking the bank. The Web site for nationally renowned Glamour Magazine, www.glamour.com, gives several money-saving shopping tips, such as: asking for a discount, even if an item isn’t on sale; asking for a refund if the item goes on sale within 10 days of purchase; following your favorite stores on Twitter or Facebook; shopping at the end of the day on Tuesdays for newly-marked-down items; and seeking out special discounts that are offered to certain professions, like teachers and civil workers. Other shopping tips include: making a list and sticking to it; doing online research; hitting up Black Friday sales; taking advantage of Cyber Monday; using online coupons and buying vintage. With that in mind, it’s time to embark on your shopping journey and find that special treasure you’ve been searching for...starting with the products in our annual Shoppers’ Guide, with some offering special pricing for Hanover Lifestyle readers! n
8
Holiday Shopping Events: CAryTOwn Saturday, November 24 Black Saturday Local stores and restaurants will offer great specials. Plus, enjoy a free horse-drawn carriage ride from 12-5pm.
wILLOw LAwn December 1, 8, 15, and 22. 11:30am. Brunch with Madeline and Snow Bear The Children’s Theatre of Virginia Call 282-2620 for reservations and tickets. Mommy & Me January 9. 10-11:30am. Mommies and daddies can take advantage of this new year-round program featuring live entertainment, arts, crafts, and giveaways, held on the second Wednesday of each month.
reGenCy SqUAre MALL November 26. 8:30-10:30am. Mall Walkers Event Westport will be conducting cholesterol and blood sugar checks as well as blood pressure screenings.
VIrGInIA CenTer COMMOnS November 23-December 22 Sounds of the Season See some of the community’s best musical acts. For a list of dates and times, visit virginiacentercommons.com.
SHOrT PUMP TOwn CenTer December 11 and January 8. 11am. Short Pump Pals Clubhouse Meeting Bring kids 6 and under to join this free kid’s club with special events, discounts, and birthday treats! Check their website, Shortpumpmall.com, for updates of the live entertainment or host for each meeting.
November/December 2012
1 2
3 cial Look for spe pricing for style Hanover Life readers!
4
5
1. wild Dance Tote Bright shimmery colors with velvety black zebra stripes. Fully lined tote with a zipper and open pocket inside. Other styles and sizes available. Reg. Price $19.50. Special Price $17. The Dance Company 8324 Bell Creek Road, Suite 500 559-DANC(3262) | thedanceco.org The Dance Company’s mission is to share with each student a passion for dancing as well as create a love for dance. Dancing builds self confidence while promoting a healthy body image. Dance programs are available in their state-of-the-art dance studio for beginners to advanced levels. Dancewear, shoes, and tights are also available. 2. Fireplace Screen & Tool Set This ball and claw fireplace screen and tool set is just one of many styles available. Reg. Price $548. Special Price $468. Hearth and Home Shoppe 8154 Mechanicsville Turnpike 730.3800 | hearthandhomeshoppe.com Visit the friendly experts for great advice on gas, wood, or pellet fireplaces or inserts. Lots of great fireplace accessories too!
6
7
3. Bullfrog Spa Experience the freedom of unlimited customization with Bullfrog’s JetPak technology, so you can escape, relax and unwind! Pla-Mor Pools | plamorpools.com 7225 Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville 746.5555 119 Junction Drive, Ashland | 798.3667 Family-owned and operated since 1968, Pla-Mor Pools handles all of your pool and hot tub needs with a strong emphasis on providing the highest quality merchandise and the most reliable customer service available. 4. Thymes – Frasier Fir Aromatic candles, diffusers and home fragrances for that “just cut forest fresh” scent for the holidays.
www.RichmondNavigator.com
Belle Cottage, LLC 8319 Bell Creek Road | Mechanicsville 559.8100 | bellcottagellc.com Belle Cottage is a charming, convenient, and customer-friendly gift source for any and all occasions. They now offer monogramming and many popular lines that appeal to young and old alike. 5. Purina Premium Wild Bird Block A large variety of birds will love this 20 lb. block of mixed seeds and grains designed to offer the best nutrition for our winter feeders. No feeder is required. Reg. Price $12.60. Special Price $9.99. Ashland Feed Store 120 Thompson Street | Ashland 798-8431 | ashlandfeedstore.com Ashland Feed Store is a vintage country store built in 1918, located right in the heart of Ashland. 6. Chalk Paint by Annie Sloan Voted the world’s best paint, Chalk Paint by Annie Sloan comes in 30 colors and a clear and a dark wax. Special Price: 10% off additional item with purchase of Chalk Paint Thrill of the Hunt | 315 England Street, Ashland | 368.0184 thrillofthehuntva.com Find upcycled furniture, art, collectibles, and vintage finds at Thrill of the Hunt. They are also the only stockist in the Richmond area that carries all Annie Sloan paints and supplies. Open seven days a week until 5 pm. 7. The Brandy Chair A stylish and contemporary piece perfect for an addition to your bedroom or any other room in your home. Reg. Price $1099. Special Price: 25% off. Layers Bed Company 11800 West Broad Street 360-2704 • layersbedcompany.com At Layers we design every product to be an elegant complement to a relaxing night’s sleep. All of our products are created with a traditional craftsman’s touch and a designer’s eye to offer a perfect addition to any bedroom.
9
facebook.com/richmondnavigator
We are very like-able!
10
In-Home Senior Care For A Loved One Find our four magazines on one convenient facebook page. “Like” us to: • Win tickets to sporting events • Win gift certificates to restaurants • Tell us what and who you would like to see in our magazines • Stay connected!
Comfort Keepers® provides the kind of trusted, in-home care that helps people maintain full and independent lives, right in the comfort of their own home. Call us today to learn how we can provide interactive care in your home. • • • • • • • •
Companionship Incidental transportation Laundry, cooking Light housekeeping Medication reminders Grooming, dressing guidance Alzheimer’s/dementia care Personal care services: bathing, hygiene incontenance care
804-966-1997
www.comfortkeepers.com
Visit us to find out where to dine—and enter to win Dining Gift Certificates for some of Richmond’s Best Restaurants!
[RICHMONDNAVIGATOR.COM] November/December 2012
what’s cook in Anything for a Buck by Steve Cook
S
ince this is a special shopping issue, I thought I’d spend a few minutes talking about a modern-day shopping marvel, the dollar stores. Do you remember back in the day before there were dollar stores? Back then, the only place you could find such a wide variety of items, that today you can buy for one dollar, was at the county dump. I had some friends who would go down to the dump at least once a week and rummage through the piles of stuff that had been thrown away. They’d be so delighted to show off their “treasures” when they got home. I see that same look of delight in my wife’s eyes when she returns from the local dollar store. True, not all dollar stores sell mostly worthless junk. I say that, with all sincerity, in order to avoid any type of legal action against me. It’s also true that there are a few really cool things you can get for a buck. But, for the most part, it’s junk. The tricky thing is that they wrap up the junk to look like it’s top quality merchandise. They put labels on their stuff that almost look like real labels for stuff that you might actually pay a buck for. The people who run those dollar stores are experts at coming up with product names, names that could really be impressive if you don’t think about it too hard. Some things come so close to sounding like high-quality products…like that can of Old Chum Seafood Chunks. They weren’t nearly as tasty as you might think they’d be. That one fooled me. But I wised up before I got to the checkout counter with my big tub of I Can’t Believe it’s not Lard Table Spread. Those dollar stores are helping me to become a much more savvy shopper. Okay, I wasn’t all that savvy when I bought a 12 pack of something called Poops ‘n Oops HalfPly Toilet Tissue. The label said “Revolutionary Breakthrough in Every Sheet.” It wasn’t until I got home that I came to understand just what they meant by that. My worst experiences have been with the dollar store toys. I have never purchased a toy at the dollar store that lasted for more than two minutes. It’s amazing how the manufacturers of dollar store products are able to produce items that break so easily. I’ve even had rubber balls break on me. I would stop shopping at my neighborhood dollar store altogether, if it wasn’t for that scrumptious, fish-flavored, sugar-coated breakfast cereal they sell. In fact, I think I’m going downstairs right now and pour me a big bowl of Crappies. n Read more at richmondnavigator.com www.RichmondNavigator.com
You’ve worked hard to
make your to house a home. You’ve worked hard Your insurance should work hard, too. make your house a home.
You’ve created a style all your own. The colors, the furnishings. They’re you. Your family and friends find comfort here.
Your insurance should work hard, too.
Now let us show you a better, affordable way to protect your home and loved ones. We offer exceptional service and a broad range of coverages backed by the
You’ve created a style all your own. The thewhen furnishings. assurance thatcolors, we’ll be there you need us. They’re you. Your family and friends find comfort here. Call us today.
You’ve worked hard to make Now let us show you a better, affordable wayInsurance to protect your home andyour loved ones.house a hom Cornerstone You’ve worked hard to We offer exceptional service and a broad range of coverages backed by the Your insurance should work hard You’ve hard to assurance that we’llworked be there whenayou need us. make your house home. You’ve created a style all your own. The colors, the f make your house a home. Your family and friends find comfort here. Call us today. Your insurance should work hard, too. (804) 746-0950 8052 Elm Drive Ste C Mechanicsville, VA 23111 www.cornerstoneinsuranceva.com
Your insurance should work hard, too.
AutoaHome Business Life You’ve created a style all your own. The colors, the furnishings. They’re you. Now let us show you better, affordable way to pro YourYou’ve family and friends find comfort here. We offer exceptional service and a broad range of c created a style all your own. The colors, the furnishings. They’re you. •
•
•
S1022 Not all companies are licensed or operate in all states. Not all products are offered in all states. Go to erieinsurance.com for company licensure and territory information.
Cornerstone Insurance
assurance andafriends find comfort NowYour let usfamily show you better, affordable wayhere. to protect your home and loved ones. that we’ll be there when you need us. 8052 Elm Drive Ste C and a broad range of coverages backed by the We offer exceptional service Call usand today. Now let us show you a better, affordable way to protect your home loved ones. assurance that we’llVA be there when you need us. Mechanicsville, 23111 We offer exceptional service and a broad range of coverages backed by the Call us today. that we’ll be there when you need us. www.cornerstoneinsuranceva.com assurance
Cornerstone Insurance
Call us 746-0950 today. (804) Cornerstone Insurance 8052 Elm Drive Ste C S1022 Not all companies are licensed or operate in all states. Not all products are offered in all states. Go to erieinsurance.com for company licensure and territory information. Mechanicsville, VA 23111 www.cornerstoneinsuranceva.com 8052 Elm Drive Ste C
Cornerstone Insurance
Mechanicsville, VA 23111 (804) 746-0950
www.cornerstoneinsuranceva.com
8052 Elm Drive Ste C Mechanicsville, 23111 • Business • Life Auto •VA Home www.cornerstoneinsuranceva.com
(804) 746-0950 are licensed or operate in all states. • Not all companies • Business • Life AutoS1022 Not all Home products are offered in all states. Go to erieinsurance.com for company licensure and territory information.
Large Selection of Unique Gifts
S1022 Not all companies are licensed or operate in all states. Not all products are offered in all states. Go to erieinsurance.com for company licensure and territory information.
(804) 746-0950
Auto • Home • Business • Life
S1022 Not all companies are licensed or operate in all states. Not all products are offered in all states. Go to erieinsurance.com for company licensure and territory information.
Personalized Gifts With Monogramming!
Vera Bradley • Lilly Pulitzer • Baggallini Tervis Tumblers • Hen House Linens Scout • Kringle Candles • Dansko Halia Jewelry (compatible with Pandora) Kameleon Jewelry, and MORE! Monogramming Available Free Gift-Bagging
B E L L E C O T TA G E L L C . C O M 11
MEET ASHLAND’S
Brews Brothers by Steve Cook. Photos by Robert Thomas.
W
hen Phil Ray, an engineer, living in Tampa, Florida, received a phone call from his brother Chris, about four years ago, neither man could have foreseen how that one phone call would set events in motion that would change their lives…events that would bring the two brothers together…to the center of the universe. “If I send you a beer brewing kit, would you use it,” Chris Ray, a Major League Baseball pitcher, then with the Baltimore Orioles, asked his brother. Chris had already been brewing small vats of beer. He says that a college roommate had previously introduced him to the art of craft brewing. “I got hooked,” he says. “I loved brewing.” The Ray brothers are native Floridians, Chris had met “a Hanover girl,” while attending William and Mary. After the two married, they settled down in Ashland, at least as much as a professional ballplayer who has, over the past five years pitched for the Orioles, Giants, Mariners, and Indians, could settle down. As the brothers began to pursue their new hobby, Phil, in Tampa, and Chris, wherever his career took him, developed a passion, not just for brewing, but for sharing their love of craft beers with others.
12
Brothers Phil and Chris Ray standing on their new 15 barrel brewhouse. “We’re not beer snobs,” Chris says. “I had plenty of Natural Lights in college. But we do want to share our knowledge of the things we have learned.” As they shared both their beer and their knowledge with friends, they began to conceive a plan. Why not transform the hobby into a business? To pursue their business plan, Phil left his career in engineering and left his hometown in Florida. He and Chris have recently opened the Center of the Universe Brewing Company (COTU) in the former Herald Progress building on Air Park road, just south of Ashland.
According to their website, cotubrewing.com, their company name was carefully chosen: COTU wanted to be a company that truly embraces the local community. “Center of the Universe,” to COTU, is taking pride in where you live and respecting the people with whom you interact. We believe it is our responsibility to understand and appreciate how our actions affect the community that supports us. In speaking with the Ray brothers recently, in their spacious, new facility, I was impressed by both their knowledge and their passion. It’s hard to imagine that less than five years ago, neither brother had any knowledge or interest in craft beers. In the interim, the Rays have obviously done their homework. “We’ve read books and books on the subject,” Phil says. But, more importantly, they’ve been experimenting. “It’s a lot like cooking,” Chris explains. “You first decide on a casserole. Then you decide it will be a chicken casserole. Then you pick the flavors you’ll use. With craft beer, you first pick a style. You look at the profile…the grains, the hops, the yeast that you will use.” “It’s a lot of trial and error,” Phil says of the process. continued on page 16 >> November/December 2012
Seafood Paella
With abundant seafood around the island, Cuba is famous for its seafood paella. Havana 59 offers its interpretation of this popular dish. Fresh mussels and shrimp, with chunks of fish, chicken and ham mixed with Valencia saffron rice, sofrito and peas Havana 59 • www.havana59.net 216 North 17th Street • 780-2822
See more international dishes on page 18.
Maitre D’Restaurant Highlights Awful Arthur’s
Plaza Azteca
Bell Cafe
Gus’ Italian Cafe & Sports Bar
Get a taste of the sea any way you want it at Awful Arthur’s. From the raw bar or on a bun to over pasta or salad, you’re sure to find an entree to suit your tastes. Or design a platter of your favorites grilled, blackened, broiled or fried! 6078 Mechanicsville Tpke. 559-4370. www.awfularthurs.com
Stop by Bell Cafe for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a cappucino and homebaked dessert! With house made soups, organic local salads, gourmet sandwiches, and fine dining entrees, you’ll find a new favorite at Bell Cafe. Complement your meal with a craft beer or glass of wine. The Shoppes at Bell Creek. 746-4647. BellCafe.net
Mi Jalisco
Come liven up your taste buds! Enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine such as fajitas, margaritas, tacos, and burritos, in a familyfriendly atmosphere with great service. And be sure to save room for dessert! 9523 Kings Charter Drive. Ashland. 550-4744.
This new Richmond favorite is making its way to Hanover with its new location. Try their Molcajete Azteca–a hot stone filled with ribeye steak, chicken, shrimp, poblano peppers, onions, chunks of pineapple, and honey pasilla sauce. Pair it with a Texas margarita and tableside guacamole for the full experience! 10099 Brook Road, Glen Allen. 262-1385.
The place where good friends, good food and fun come together. You’ll come in for the 13 TV screens showing all of your favorite games. You’ll come back for the excellent pizza, wings, and the big, juicy burgers. Hanover Square Shopping Center. 1139-A Bell Creek Rd. 730-9620.
Baker’s Crust
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner selections showcase fresh-baked artisan breads and seasonal ingredients. Take advantage of a creperie where unique, flavorful crepes are hand-spun to order. Or have them cater your next event. Short Pump Town Center. 377-9060. BakersCrust.com
Find more great places to dine at richmondnavigator.com
Half Price Entrée Buy One Entrée at Regular Price, Get 2nd Entrée of Equal or Lesser Value at Half Price.
GUS’ ITALIAN CAFE & SPORTS BAR
7358 Bell Creek Road | Mechanicsville | 804.730.9620 See ad on page 20.
50% OFF a booked event Now thru 11/30/12.
The Venue
At Brandy Hill Plaza
$15 OFF $10 OFF Synthetic Oil Change
Plus a $15 Mail-in Rebate. See store for details Exp 11/30/12
LUBE TECH
Full Service Oil Change Exp. 12/31/12
10 Minute Oil Change Center & 24 Hour Car Wash
9080 Atlee Station Road | Mechanicsville | 804.569.1888 lubetechoil.com | See ad on page 16.
10% OFF Any Spa Repair Now thru 12/31/12.
Indian Cuisine
7071 Mechanicsville Turnpike | 804.350.0499 See ad on page 26.
7225 Bell Creek Road | Mechanicsville | 804.746.5555 119 Junction Drive | Ashland | 804.798.3667 • See ad on page 4.
10% OFF
40% OFF
Installed Flooring Jobs over $1,000.
Entire Purchase Now thru 12/15/12.
6156 Mechanicsville Tnpk. I 804.730.3016 landmcarpetonemechanicsville.com | See ad on page 31.
$5 OFF
$10 OFF
Any $25 Purchase
Any $50 Purchase
120 Thompson Street. | Ashland | 804.798.8431 ashlandfeedstore.com • See ad on page 10.
Short Pump Town Center | 804.360.2704 layersbedcompany.com • See ad on page 32.
$400 OFF Orthodontic Treatment
11 Convenient Locations vadentist.com • See ad on page 3.
For more savings, print Navideals from richmondnavigator.com. 14
November/December 2012
november + december guitar: The instrument instr That rocked The World Science Museum of Virginia through January 4 smv.org
NOVEMBER NOVEMBER
16 +17
Ashland Vintage Holiday Market vintageholidaymarket.com
23
Dominion gardenFest of Lights Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden through January 7 lewisginter.org
NOVEMBER
NOVEMBER
Philadanco
Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Lost Christmas Eve
28
28
Alice Jepson Theatre Modlin Center for the Arts University of Richmond modlinrichmond.edu.
Richmond Coliseum ticketmaster.com DECEMBER
DECEMBER
Let it Snow!
Jim Brickman: On a Winter’s night
6
1
Richmond Symphony Genworth Financial Symphony Pops Carpenter Theater richmondcenterstage.com
Carpenter Theatre richmondCenterstage.com etix.com
DECEMBER
DECEMBER
13
15+16
“Cake Boss” Buddy Valastro
greenberg’s Train & Toy Show
Landmark Theater richmondcenterstage.com etix.com
Richmond Raceway Complex greenbergshows.com
DECEMBER
DECEMBER
21
22
Carbon Leaf The National thenationalva.com ticketmaster.com
Chihuly Exhibition Virginia Museum of Fine Arts through February 10 vmfa.org
governor’s overnor’s Holiday Hoops Classic Richmond Coliseum ticketmaster.com
Fo r m o r e l o c a l e ve n t s , v i s i t r i c h m o n d n av i g a t o r. c o m www.RichmondNavigator.com
15
Brews Brothers
continued from page 12
AT OUR COMMUNITY, OUR LIGHTS ONLY GO OUT WHEN SOMEONE TURNS THEM OFF. Our community has backup generators to keep the lights on, the food fresh, and the temperature just right. With staff on-site 24/7, a friendly face is always here to help. Don’t wait for the next emergency – call or visit today!
804-270-3990
3000 Skipwith Road • Richmond, VA 23294
804-270-3990
Pet Friendly
www.MorningsideInTheWestEnd.com ©2012 Five Star Quality Care, Inc.
ASSISTED 16
LIVING
•
MEMORY
CARE
Despite the wealth of knowledge and experience Phil and Chris Ray have garnered in the past five years, the brothers have hired veteran brewer, Mike Killelea (formerly of Legend Brewing) to be their head brewer. “We were looking for a brewer,” Chris explains. “I asked Mike if he knew of someone who might be interested in the job.” Chris says he wasn’t trying to “steal” Killelea away from Legend, admitting that when he approached him, “I thought he was the owner (of Legend Brewing).” The three men have begun (in midOctober) brewing their beers. Plans are for the brewery to produce three to four different beers, with their India pale ale being the number one product. “It will be a West Coast style of beer, which no one is doing locally,” Chris says. Of their IPA-style beer, he says it is a wellcrafted, well-balanced beer. “We’re calling it ‘Pocahoptas.’” “We’ll be offering some additional beers, including seasonal beers, in our tasting room,” Phil says. The beer tasting is a highlight of tours that are offered. Phil says that there are plans to produce what he termed a “sessionable beer.” And, if you’re as unfamiliar with that term as was I, here’s his explanation: “It basically refers to a lighter beer…one that you can take to the beach.” In addition to being able to purchase their products at the brewery, you can enjoy your favorite COTU beer in several Hanoverarea restaurants including Caboose, O’Banks, Trackside, and the Islamorada Fish Company in the Bass Pro Shop. The beers will also be available in some of the area Sheetz and Martin’s stores. “We don’t want to grow super fast,” Chris says, explaining that for the first couple of months the beers will only be offered within Hanover County. However, looking to the future, he says that within the next four years, he anticipates that COTU will be a regional distributor serving Virginia, Maryland, and North Carolina. To learn more about COTU as well as the entire craft brewing process visit their exceptionally informative website. n November/December 2012
by Steve Cook. photos by karie sofie photography.
The Venue at Brandy Hill:
Your Perfect Party Place in Hanover
W
hen local restaurateur, Bob Williams, decided to move his successful Carolina-style barbecue restaurant, Willie’s Barbecue, to Mechanicsville, he was offered
an opportunity to lease additional space in the Brandy Hill Plaza Shopping Center (on Mechanicsville Turnpike at Lee Davis Road) at what he terms an excellent price. He accepted the offer and proceeded to begin renovations for his barbecue place, and for two additional restaurants, as well. “What I learned,” Williams says, “as I was in the process of building
While one of the larger rooms at The Venue can be adapted for virtually any type of private gathering, it would make the perfect
out the additional space, is that the Mechanicsville area has a real need
setting for wedding receptions, cocktail parties, and the like. The room
for an upscale banquet facility.”
has a stage for a band, as well as a DJ booth, with a great sound system
With this new information, Williams has made some adjustments in his business plan. Yes, Willie’s Barbecue is open and serving up the same delicious barbecue and great homemade side dishes that made the restaurant so popular in its Bottoms Bridge location. But now, rather than having two additional restaurants, Williams
to boot. It also has a large bar area. Williams is licensed by the state’s ABC board to be able to offer guests full bar service. So, regardless of your party plans, The Venue can provide the perfect…well, the perfect venue for anything from wedding receptions and rehearsal dinners, to family reunions and corporate
is offering residents and businesses throughout Hanover, and beyond,
gatherings. You could even get your friends and co-workers together
some truly unique banquet facilities at The Venue at Brandy Hill. What
for a talent night, or an evening of dining and dancing.
makes The Venue so unique is that two of the spaces were originally designed to be restaurants. One of the spaces is decorated in a 50s malt-shop motif, with
The Venue offers two kitchens and Williams says his professional staff can plan and accommodate any menu you might desire. And, as for those extras that make a party a party…things such as entertainers,
really cool murals on the wall. “This space will be great for children’s
bands, clowns (for the kids, of course), special décor, and more, the
parties,” Williams says. And that it will, but with a host of large screen
folks at The Venue can take care of that as well.
TVs, which can be viewed from every seat in the house, the area would also be perfect for a private Super Bowl gathering or some other
For more information and for assistance in planning your next great event, phone The Venue at 804 350-0499. n
sporting event-related function. www.RichmondNavigator.com
17
In Search of INTERNATIONAL Photos by Tim Hill.
1. Camarones Borrachos Shrimp cooked with chipotle peppers and onions, seasoned with aĂąejo tequila. Served with spanish rice and a vegetable medley of carrots, broccoli and cauliflower.
1
The Patron 7610 Left Flank road, Mechanicsville 559-6745 | thepatronrestaurant.com
2. Shrimp Tostadas Pan seared shrimp served on three crispy tostadas with slices of avocado, tomato, fresh queso, red onions, fresh sour cream, and chipotle sauce. Plaza azteca 6623 West Broad Street | 888-9984 12020 West Broad Street | 360-7439
3. Combination Platter Souvlaki, gyro slices, keftedes, four doimades, pita bread, and tzatziki. greek grill Cafe 2313 Westwood ave • 355-4001 greekgrillcafe.net
2
18 18
3
November/December 2012
Creating a beautiful smile for you!
P
eople come in all shapes and sizes, and so do teeth and faces. Sometimes, though, nature doesn’t provide a perfectly matched pair; that is, sometimes the teeth that nature pro-
vides don’t show off the face as well as we’d like. If that's how you feel about your smile, ask us about custom designing a smile that's right for you. A combination of cosmetic bonding, porcelain veneers, orthodontics, crowns, or enamel reshaping might just add up to a smile you’ll want to show more often. We’re all conscious of how others see us and how our physical features complement each other. Your height, for example, can make a difference in which teeth get a high profile. If you’re short, your lower front teeth get the spotlight, since they’re seen from above. Taller folks need to be aware of the appearance of their upper front teeth, since they’re seen from slightly below. If front teeth are crooked, worn, chipped, or discolored—even on the biting edges—we may be able to minimize these negative features an accentuate the strengths of your smile. Our experience in designing attention-grabbing smiles can show you it’s often desirable to deemphasize a long face by flattening the smile line, or to balance out a rounder, wider face by lengthening front teeth. Every person is unique, and so is every smile. Our office team will work with you to achieve a satisfying harmony between your face and your smile. Redesigning your smile requires a lot of discussion, questions, suggestions—and time. It’s your smile, so we’ll take the time to recommend all the options we feel are right for your improved appearance, and the time to listen to you—the most important member of our “smile-design team.” Does this sound like the kind of individual attention you’re looking for? Call one of our eleven locations and schedule a consultation. Let us tell you how we can create a beautiful smile especially for you! n Dr. Baxter Perkinson & Associates is a Group Practice of 40 Doctors Specializing in Orthodontics, Dental Implants, Prostodontics, Periodontics, Cosmetic and General Dentistry. With 11 convenient locations in the Richmond Metro Area we can assist you in creating your youthful smile. For a location near you, visit wbperkinson.com.
www.RichmondNavigator.com
19
Please join us for the holidays with an
Invitation to Innovations Friday, November 30th, 4 to 7 pm
REFRESHMENTS • RAFFLES • PRIZES
• Specials & Inventory Reductions • Varied Hair and Skin Care Lines 20% Off • Try Our Services! Mini bareMinerals‘Makeunder’, Lip or Eye Brow Wax, Chair Massage
GUEST APPEARANCES from local vendors including Thirty-One, Longaberger Baskets, Can Do Printing and Embroidery, Pampered Chef, uppercase living & Ruby Slipper MEET DR. TRAVIS SHAW, ENT Specialist & Double Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon • Botox $11/unit and $200 off Juvederm with purchase of 2 syringes
VERSASPASPRAY TAN ½ off membership this night only
10360 Leadbetter Road . Ashland, VA 23005 . 804-550-2999 . ShearandSpa.com 20
For more restaurants:
November/December 2012
! g n i D , g n Ding, Di
Dinner (as well as Breakfast and Lunch) is Served at The Bell Café! by Tammie Wersinger. Photos by Robert Thomas.
A Taste of the Menu
CrAB LOUIe. A bed of mixed greens topped with lump crab meat, jumbo shrimp, cucumber, tomato, red onion, avocado, and egg with horseradish dressing.
T
he story of Bell Café in Mechanicsville
griddle to cook and serve a limited menu on
Danny and Tiffany Ingram’s first
At first, it was just the two of them. They
reads like a classic rags-to-riches tale.
dinnerware donated by customers.
jobs were in the food industry. They met,
ran the café for 12 hours a day, then baked
together in restaurants.
Tiffany held down a night job as a bartender.
became friends and dated while working
So, it was only natural when they were
pastries and desserts at home – all while “I’m not going to say it’s been easy, but
looking for their own business, they would
I can say it has been worth it,’’ Tiffany said.
“This was just a natural progression for
given an empty space and creating a place
stay with what they knew and loved.
us to go into business for ourselves,” Tiffany said. “He’s kind of my favorite person in
“Just try to wrap your mind around being you’ve been dreaming about.”
As business picked up, they were able to
the whole world, so I can’t think of anyone
hire employees, as well as put a little money
friend.’’
closing for a week around Christmas, they
else I would rather work with than my best As they began toying with the idea
of opening their own restaurant, Danny
happened upon a Craigslist ad for a free coffee shop in the Shoppes at Bell Creek.
With little money and lots of ambition,
the couple assumed the lease from Coffee Lane Café in January of 2011, then embarked
into kitchen equipment and décor. After reopened this past New Years Eve with a new look, a more extensive menu and the new name of Bell Café.
Today, the restaurant features a wine bar,
craft beers, espresso, fresh baked pastries, desserts, and gourmet foods.
we took over,’’ said Tiffany, who married her
specializes in fresh gourmet foods served in a
a place we’re proud of and are appealing to
big-city café atmosphere.
Before opening the doors, Danny and
Tiffany sold the café’s televisions to buy food
business and life partner in June. “We created people who like the feeling of a big-city café and the best quality food.”
Bell Café, located at 8319 Bell Creek Road,
and supplies. They created a lounge area and
is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through
art from home, and bought an inexpensive
details, visit bellcafe.net or call 804-746-4647.n
decorated walls by bringing in furniture and
www.RichmondNavigator.com
CAFe MeATLOAF. Made with lamb, beef, and veal with creamy mashed potatoes, topped with brown gravy. Served with a medley of sauteed vegetables.
“We are nothing like the coffee shop that
on a journey that has changed their lives and brought Mechanicsville a unique eatery that
CHICken SALAD SAnDwICH. Made with hand-pulled chicken, sun-dried pomegranate, and tarragon. With mixed greens and tomato on marbled rye. Served with homemade lobster bisque.
Saturday and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sundays. For
STrAwBerry SHOrTCAke. An old-fashioned, tender shortcake topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. 21
senior living
Aging Gracefully
T I P S FOR
H OW W E S OCia Li ZE By Steve Cook
“N
o matter what our age, we
she says, “including the Hanover Senior Club.” Durrer describes the club as offering,
tunities for Hanover’s senior community, wel-
Debbie Leidheiser, senior
“monthly gatherings planed and facilitated by
comes and appreciates the input and recom-
advocate for Chesterfield County. “As we age,
senior adult participants.” She says the gather-
mendations from those who are looking for
this becomes even more important.”
ings provide, “fun, fellowship and activities.”
new and different activities.
Monica Hughes, executive director for the
Many of today’s seniors choose socializa-
Monica Hughes also regularly observes
Lifelong Learning Institute (LLI), in Chesterfield
tion through travel and Durrer says the county’s
the oftentimes immediate benefits derived by
County, agrees. “I don’t believe the need for
Senior Travel Comission plans and facilitates
those who take advantage of the many and
socialization changes…everyone needs it! I
activities ranging from local day trips to over-
varied opportunities for increased socializa-
do think that the opportunities change and
night trips, as well as seasonal social events,
tion as offered at LLI. She cites one example:
the interests change,” she says.
which include entertainment, food, and a vari-
One woman called (the LLI) four times
ety of activities including Wii bowling, Country
over the course of several months inquiring
School Quilters, and card clubs.
about our programs but was obviously hav-
Explaining some of the factors that lead to those changing needs, Leidheiser says, “When we work or have children at home, we
Other planned activities, she says,
ing a difficult time taking the steps to get out
center on educational enrichment. And as
after the death of her husband. When she
“As we age and we retire, we have to
regards opportunity for continuing educa-
called she would end up on the phone with
make sure that we are giving ourselves
tion, Chesterfield’s Lifelong Learning Institute,
someone, usually a volunteer, in the office.
opportunities for socialization. If we don’t
which welcomes residents of Hanover County,
Finally, she made her way to the school to
have any hobbies or aren’t involved in any
offers an amazingly diverse list of courses…
find out more and to see if she could do it.
activities, we become ‘stale’ and we don’t
everything from art, drama and literature, to
After listening and sharing for about half
keep our mind active,” she adds.
computers, to dance and philosophy. Their
an hour, I took her on a tour of the space. It
“I think the biggest factor in not taking
website (see below) provides further details
was only a few steps into the hallway when I
the initiative (to seek opportunities to social-
with information on schedules and the insti-
introduced her to a few members who were
ize) can be depression, says Hughes. “The
tute’s very reasonably-priced membership
sitting in the library talking. Within minutes
ironic piece is that depression can come from
fee, which allows members to choose from
they had taken her in and listened and shared
isolation, which creates a cycle.”
a virtual smorgasbord of courses, lectures,
together. Unbeknownst to me, two hours had
Other factors include health issues,
activities and planned social events. And, says
passed with her engaged in conversation
either that of the senior him/herself or that of
Hughes, residents of Henrico and Hanover
with them. They took her to the lounge, had
another, such as a spouse or parent to whom
Counties are welcome to join.
coffee and shared a sandwich. On her way
are around people most every day.
the senior is a primary caregiver.
When seniors avail themselves of the
out she popped her head back into the office
Whatever our circumstances, or even our
varied opportunities for socialization, the
to say goodbye. I told her, “I hope you find
personality may be, one thing is obvious. As
benefits are often felt almost immediately.
what you are looking for.” She smiled and
we age, we need to give consideration not
“The enjoyment, fellowship, and engagement
said, “I think I already have.” She left. Less
only to our natural desire for socialization, but
our participants receive are evident from the
than 10 minutes later she came back through
to the absolute need for such.
smiles on their faces and the compliments
the door to tell me that she had been in the
We asked Marcy Durrer, MS CPRP,
that they give,” says Durrer. “This is the great-
car crying tears of relief and joy. She proceed-
Recreation Program Director for Hanover
est reward for the staff and volunteers who
ed to share with me that when she smiled as
County, about provisions available in Hanover
provide these services.”
she was leaving, she realized that was the first
to facilitate socialization for seniors. “Our
Durrer adds that her department, in an
department offers a variety of opportunities,”
effort to continue to promote and advocate
For more inFormation: 22
for recreational resources and leisure oppor-
all need socialization,” says
time she had smiled in over a year since her husband’s death. n
Hanover County Parks & Recreation: 365-4697 or email mgdurrer@hanovercounty.gov Lifelong Learning Institute: llichesterfield.org November/December 2012
ES
HOM T F A R C E STYL
presents
g
nsizin w o D f o e d i The Up S at
l l i H e s o illas at R
The V
’s Premier
ounty Hanover C
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
unity
ed Comm ge-Qualifi
A
12:30 Reverse Mortgage Seminar Learn about innovative financing options for the purchase of your new home.
er 17 b m e v o N , y Saturda 5 pm Noon until
1:15 Woody Hogg & Associates Selling your home in today’s market. 2:00 Staging Your Home to Sell Learn the secrets to preparing your home to sell. 3:00 Decluttering, Downsizing and Disposing of the Stuff What you need to know before you make a move.
All New Floor Plans Designed Especially With Active Adults In Mind
4:00 StyleCraft Homes Worry-Free Maintenance Discover how StyleCraft Homes can provide you with both a luxurious and worry-free home. 4:30 Social Benefits to Active Adult Communities Find out why an active association can improve your social lifestyle.
Offering A Host Of Unparalleled Amenities (not all options are available on all models)
Tour Our New Decorated Model at Your Leisure
Spacious One-Level Living • Two and Three Bedrooms Screened Porch • Morning Room • Designer Gourmet Kitchens Craftsman, French/English Country, and Traditional Brick Exteriors Various Master Bath Designs • Two-Car Garages Exterior and Lawn Maintenance Provided Gorgeous Clubhouse with Salt-Water Pool and Fitness Center And Much More!
To register for the event(s) of your choice: RSVP@StyleCraftHomes.com or call Julie Cook at 804-252-9608
w w w. s t y l e c r a f t h o m e s . c o m
health
winter Asthma
Awareness by Jennifer Norvell Saunders
Y
ou know those days when the
to help warm the air. This can cause
cold literally takes your breath
nasal tissues to swell and mucus to
Tips for Controlling asthma
away? Your chest tightens
thicken, resulting in a stuffy nose. So we
• Avoid known triggers to lessen symptoms and flare-ups. • Get tested for allergies and, if needed, get allergy shots. • Take your asthma medications according to your doctor’s treatment plan. • Keep pets off the bed and out of the bedroom. • Use allergy covers on mattress and pillows. • Use HEPA filters if symptoms are severe. • Check pollen counts at www.pollen.com before making outdoor plans. • Reduce exposure to chemicals and perfumes. • Avoid smoking and second-hand smoke. • Get a flu shot. • Wash your hands and avoid touching your face to prevent the spread of colds and other viruses. • Wear a scarf over your mouth when going outside in cold weather. • Minimize frequent temperature changes during colder months.
soon after stepping outside. You may
end up breathing through our mouths,
even find yourself wheezing a little.
which bypasses the filtering process
Well, it could be just a normal reaction
of the nose. Inhaling more allergens
to the frigid temperature. But did you
and irritants can then cause asthma to
know it could also be asthma?
worsen.”
“Our body’s respiratory response to the cold air of winter can be uncom-
there are other asthma triggers that
fortable but it isn’t life-threatening if
tend to increase in colder months as
you don’t have asthma,” says Lawrence
well. Winter sees the rise of indoor
Gelber, M.D., president and managing
allergen exposure from pet dander and
partner of Richmond Allergy & Asthma
dust mites to mold and mildew. That‘s
Specialists. “However, for people with
because we tend to close up our homes
asthma, cold air can cause their symp-
in colder months.
toms to flare-up and that becomes a problem.” Asthma is a chronic inflammatory
If you experience asthma-like symptoms in the winter – or any time of year – it’s worth talking with your doc-
condition of the lungs that, for more
tor to find out if you have asthma and
Common asthma Triggers
than 34 million Americans, makes it
how you can manage your symptoms.
harder to breathe. Common symptoms
Diagnosing asthma isn’t difficult or
are shortness of breath, wheezing, chest
painful; it’s simply a matter of reviewing
tightness, and chronic coughing.
your medical history and performing
• • • • • • • • • • • • •
Symptoms kick in when someone with asthma is exposed to specific things in the air, in food or even in
24
Besides winter’s cold and dry air,
breathing tests to measure how well your lungs work. Unfortunately, there’s no cure for
some medications. These are called trig-
asthma yet, but managing your condi-
gers. While different people have differ-
tion, if possible, by avoiding triggers,
ent triggers, there are several common
taking medications as needed, and
ones – including winter’s cold, dry air.
following your doctor’s treatment plan
“The nose warms and filters the air we
can help you reduce symptoms and live
breathe,” says Dr. Gelber. “In the colder
a more normal life. It may even make
air of winter, blood rushes to the nose
winter’s chill just a little more bearable.
Respiratory infections like cold and flu Exercise Dust mites Cockroaches Animal dander Mold Pollen Smoke Air pollution Some medications Some foods Strong odors or perfumes Stress Sources: American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology, www.aaaai.org; WebMD, www.webmd. com; Richmond Allergy & Asthma Specialists, RichmondAllergy.com n
November/December 2012
We are GROWING!
Keeping Seniors Active & Independent
Caring Health Alternatives, better known as “Uncle Norm’s Place,” is a unique center geared toward seniors, providing: ❂ Specially-trained caregivers that will give you peace of mind ❂ Safe, fun and social environment ❂ Structured and therapeutic group and individual activities ❂ Stimulating and active daily schedule ❂ Cozy and homelike environment
9555 Kings Charter Drive Ashland, VA 23005
(804) 412-2528
Looking for an exciting job opportunity? If you are a persuasive and energetic salesperson, we’d like you to grow with us! Email your resume to: jobs@advertisingconceptsinc.com
ADVERTISING CONCEPTS, INC. RICHMONDNAVIGATOR.COM www.RichmondNavigator.com
25
H A N O V E R ’ S P E R F E C T PA R T Y P L A C E !
The Venue at Brandy Hill
Complete Banquet & Catering Services for 25 to 200 people!
• • • • •
HURRY!
Book your holiday party now while choice dates are still available.
Save with our coupon on page 14!
BANQUET ROOMS THEMED PARTY ROOMS WEDDINGS REHEARSAL DINNERS CORPORATE FUNCTIONS & BUSINESS LUNCHEONS • KIDS’ PARTIES • FAMILY REUNIONS • COCKTAIL RECEPTIONS FULL BAR SERVICE AVAILABLE
7071 MECHANICSVILLE TNPK. CALL 3500499 TO BOOK YOUR NEXT EVENT!
26
November/December 2012
e c offi IS WHERE THE HEART IS
D
id you know that Apple Computer, Hershey's, Mary Kay Cosmetics, and the Ford Motor Company all started as home-based businesses? According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, more than half of all American businesses are based out of an owner's home. A home-based business or office has rewards as well as challenges. There are pros and cons not to be taken lightly. Distractions and disruptions can flourish depending on your particular situation. A functional and productive environment doesn’t happen by itself. It takes forethought to intentionally set up, locate, design, and furnish a home office that enhances and supports the tasks at hand.
By Vicki O’Neal, ASID, CID, VSLD
Vicki O'Neal, owner of FORM & FUNCTION, provides commercial and residential interior and landscape design. She is a professional member of ASID, VA Certified Interior Designer (CID), Master Gardener, and a VA Certified Landscape Designer (VSLD) and a Horticulturist. 804.897.8558 FandFdesign.com Information in articles written by Vicki O’Neal is intended for general reference only.
www.RichmondNavigator.com
PERMANENT or TEMPORARY With economic pressures and resulting corporate changes that have taken place in recent years, some people find themselves working at home even though they never expected to. Many work at home only periodically or a couple of days a week, while others are full time, work-at-home devotees. Some situations are unpredictable and don't necessarily warrant a dedicated work space. Even in those situations, however, attention to creating an environment that supports focus and concentration can make or break effectiveness. The working space needed depends on your particular type of business and the anticipated outlook. Prior to setting up your home office, take time to assess how you will use it and what requirements it must fulfill. The first steps in locating, arranging, and outfitting your office involve asking yourself a few key questions: • Do you have a space or room that can be dedicated to your office? • If you own a two-story home, does it matter if your office is on the first or second floor?
• Do you need a dedicated entrance to your office? Will you likely bring in clients or vendors? • Are packages coming and going frequently? • What type of technology will be needed to support your ideal functionality? • How much layout area and desk space is needed? This can vary dramatically depending on the occupation. • What are the filing and storage requirements? Are there books, catalogues, samples, etc.? • Will others be working in the space with you? How often? These are some basic considerations and assessments. There may be other design criteria specific to your type of business. DETAILS, DETAILS Comfort and good ergonomic design translate into greater productivity and in turn contribute to increased business success. A great task chair is probably the single most important piece of furniture in the space. After your computer, a quality task chair continued on page 28 >> 27
should be the next most expensive item. If your chair is comfortable, efficiency and focus increase simply because more time will be spent in the chair uninterrupted. For reference, a good chair has easily height-adjustable seat and arms, tilts forward and back, and has lumbar support and adjustable tensions. Lighting is tricky in an office environment, primarily due to competing tasks. Glare is frequently a challenge with computer screens. Although natural light is always desirable, it can cause issues if the computer is positioned where the light reflects onto the screen. Task lighting is essential and can be accomplished with high-intensity desk lamps. The style of any ambient or general lighting (frequently a ceiling fixture) should complement the style in the rest of your home and provide a crisp white light. TECHNOLOGY Computer, CPU, docking station, monitor, router, modem, printer, fax, scanner, shredder, charging station, UPS, speakers, telephone... the list of electronic devices possibly needed in your office can present a planning overload. Thinking carefully about locating all the devices and how you will use them can save costly future re-dos. It’s likely there is not enough power or outlets to accommodate your requirements. Laptops, wireless devices, and the desire for mobility are on the rise, but this equipment still requires most of the same support configuration. STYLE and FLEXIBILITY Does your home office have to look like an office? Perhaps not. Style doesn’t necessarily have to be compromised. Your office may take on the look of a handsome library with beautiful furnishings, especially if you frequently receive clients or vendors. A pleasant and colorful design can brighten the mood, energize the space, and enhance your productivity.
What should you do if it just isn’t feasible to dedicate a specific room solely for your home office? There are stylish and fun ways to create a space designed for double or even triple duty. A guest room can be converted to a home office while discreetly and cleverly maintaining its original function by incorporating a Murphy bed. This spacesaving bed keeps the room open except when the bed is pulled down from the wall for occasional use. If you just don’t have a room you can sacrifice, even a wide closet with double doors can be converted into a practical configuration. When you are done for the day, simply close the doors and it’s out of sight and out of mind. Voilà! ON A PERSONAL NOTE Working from home is a money saver on clothes, gas, tolls, parking, and the possible ticket on the highway! There are other plusses as well, but the flip side contains two major pitfalls: isolation and the temptation to work at all hours of the day and night. Yours truly can attest to these issues as I’ve worked from a home office for several years. Working solo can get pretty quiet depending on the type of work you do and the frequency of appointments and interaction. A periodic change of scenery is important, but the corner coffee shop might not be the right place for you. Co-working or office sharing might be a good option depending on your business model and the need to build professional relationships. Services such as www.loosecubes.com provide a people-centric and collaborative environment and connect you with like-minded colleagues. Regardless of your arrangement, it’s important to set and stick to regular business hours and close the door behind you at the end of your workday, even if only metaphorically. Social media is a great way to promote business and stay connected, but personal contact and relationships nurture and help us grow, both professionally and personally. n
Design services for home or business: Interior Design
• Space planning • Remodeling & additions • Construction drawings • Color & materials • Lighting design
Landscape Design
• Outdoor living • Hardscapes • Pools & water features • Plant selection • Installation Vicki O’Neal, ASID, CID, VSLD, owner of FORM & FUNCTION
28
FandFdesign.com FandFdesign.com/blog 804.897.8558 November/December 2012
Dining. Entertainment. Savings.
RichmondNavigator.com
facebook.com/RichmondNavigator
Why choose Trinity Renovations, Inc. for your next remodel? • We’ve been remodeling bathrooms for 10+ years. • We do not use subcontractors. • We have a showroom full of finished bathrooms as well as professional consultants to help you with your selections. • We take pride in our work and the care we give your home. • We’re licensed and insured. • We offer a FREE Consultation. • We will provide you with references upon request. Open Monday–Friday, 9 am to 7 pm Saturday, 9 am to 1 pm
6102 Brashier Boulevard, Suite H, Mechanicsville, VA 23111 | www.trinityrenovationsinc.com | (804) 318-1907 www.RichmondNavigator.com
29
Let the music call you home... to
N
ashville…Music City. Indeed, the capital city of Tennessee has a rich musical heritage. It’s difficult to think of Nashville and not think of country music. But long before the Grand Ol’ Opry began broadcasting in the mid-twenties, long before such Opry legends as Roy Acuff and Minnie Pearl were even born, Nashville was dubbed “Music City” (kind of ). Actually, one has to go back to the year 1874, and across the pond, to England, or so I was told on several occasions during a recent visit to Nashville, to find the roots of the “Music City” moniker. The story goes that in that year a choir known as the Jubilee Singers, students at Fisk University, a Nashville African-American school, had the honor of singing for Britain’s Queen Victoria. Following their performance, the Queen is reported to have said, “These young people must come from a musical city.” Whenever it was actually first called “Music City,” Nashville is indeed, as Queen Victoria put it, a musical city. The folks involved in promoting this beautiful, modern, north-central Tennessee city are quick to point out that Nashville is not just country music. With some of the best recording studios and backup musicians in the country, singers and song writers representing virtually every musical genre seem to wind up in Nashville. That’s all well and good, but the truth is, country music is the heart and soul of this city. And even if you don’t consider yourself much of a fan, a visit to Nashville may very well put you in touch with your countrymusic side. There’s something about country music that just seems to naturally resonate with most of us. Why? That’s the question I put to several of those whom I met during my visit. I think Liz Thiels, vice-president of Public Relations, at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum put it best, “It’s the story of our people,” she told me, “and it’s the people who are telling it.” 30
Nashville
It is indeed…not just America’s story, or more appropriately, the story of America’s people, but it truly is the people doing the telling. Even those who could be called “country music stars” seem to come across as real people, with real emotions. “Even if you don’t have the same story,” says one twenty-something fan of country music, with whom I spoke, “you can relate to the story. You can share the feelings.” “And,” she adds, “you can understand the lyrics.” Nothing better illustrates that fact than the Sing Me Back Home: A Journey Through Country Music permanent exhibit at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum (countrymusichalloffame.org). When you go (and you really must), I’d suggest you make the Hall of Fame a first stop. It will firmly set the tone for the rest of your trip. You see, Nashville is not just a city where you can hear some great music. You can do that here in Richmond. Country music, in all its diversity, courses through the arteries of the city. A drive through downtown Nashville reveals this. For instance, just off Broadway, you might find yourself driving down Chet Atkins Place. Take a left on Music Square West and head up to Roy Acuff Place. Along the way, you’ll pass the RCA Victor Studio B, the “Home of a 1000 Hits,” as it’s been dubbed. Elvis recorded It’s Now or Never and Little Sister there, among many other of his huge hits. It was in Studio B that Roy Orbison recorded Only the Lonely, and Dolly Parton produced I Will Always Love You. There’s no way to visit this city without having the echoes of your personal country music favorites bouncing around inside your head. Take the studio tour and you’ll probably hear many more. You can buy tickets for the tour at the Hall of Fame. Along your journey, you may want to stop in at the Ernest Tubb Record Shop and Gruhn Guitars. George Gruhn is the ultimate authority on vintage guitars, as his 3,000 square-foot showroom amply reveals.
by Steve Cook
Country music permeates this city, as the music permeates your mind and heart. So, put this magazine down for a moment. Go to the Nashville Tourism Board’s website – visitmusiccity.com – and listen to their musical promotional video, Music Calls us Home. But come right back, finish the article, and then you can begin planning your trip. Are you back? Good. Next stop on our tour is the Ryman Auditorium. While not the original home of the Grand Ole Opry, it is certainly the Opry’s most famous former home. And even today, the Opry will occasionally “come home” to the Ryman. After a studio tour, a visit to the Hall of Fame (where I’d suggest you bring along some Kleenex), and a stop at the Ryman, you’ll be anxious to hear some real music… real country music, that is. Yes, it’s time for some honky tonking. Country music gets reborn every night in the honky tonks along lower Broadway, where the music and the fans are literally pouring out the doors. Maybe you’ll catch the next Nashville legend. Willie Nelson played the honky tonks. So did Kris Kristofferson. And today’s newest stars, such as Dierks Bentley and Gretchen Wilson, did too. Even now, the big stars, along with athletes and other celebrities, can be found rubbing shoulders with country music fans from all demographics. Here are a few of the more famous honky tonks, although you’ll have fun discovering your own favorite spots. • Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge 422 Broadway; tootsies.net • The Stage 412 Broadway; thestagonbroadway.com • Rippy’s Smokin Bar & Grill 429 Broadway; rippysbarandgrill.com • Legend’s Corner 428 Broadway; legendscorner.com I could go on (and on and on). And if you want to read more, visit the official website, visitmusiccity.com. Spend a little time on the site, and I have a feeling that the music, America’s music, will be calling you home… to Nashville. n November/December 2012
Winter Special Receive 40% Off Your Entire Purchase
Promotion Ends 12/15/2012