Midlothian
MidlothianLifestyle.com
NOVEMBER 2018
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LIFESTYLE LETTER
NOVEMBER 2018 PUBLISHER
Jennifer Carter Sowers | jennifer.sowers@lifestylepubs.com SALES DIRECTOR
Christian Sowers | christian.sowers@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Alice Minium | alice.minium@lifestylepubs.com
Thankful AS NOVEMBER ROLLS AROUND, WE’RE ANXIOUSLY AWAITING THE APPROACH OF THANKSGIVING, THE HOLIDAY SEASON, AND TIME SPENT WITH OUR LOVED ONES.
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jacob Clarke, Alice Minium CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Shelby Adams, Shelby Layne Photograph; Chelsea Schmidt, Chelsea Schmidt Photography; Karen Gage, Karen Gage Photography
This time of year always brings about a time of reflection for us—remembering both of our dads no longer with us but who both LOVED Thanksgiving, cooking and the large gathering of family; turkey disaster stories, which we’ve had a few; Thanksgiving Day football games; and thinking of the people, experiences and things we’ve been blessed with in the last year. While launching Midlothian Lifestyle has been a labor of love, the very best part has been the amazing people in our community we have met along the way. As we press pause on the hustle and bustle of life putting together a monthly magazine, we’re able to reflect on all we have to be thankful. This includes our first responders who selfishly give up so much to keep our community safe, including often times holidays with their families. We also take this chance to think of those less fortunate and encourage you to take the opportunity this giving season to donate to local organizations or charities giving back locally. We have profiled five of them in this issue that are near and dear to us and could use your support. Lastly, we ask you to support local entrepreneurs who often sacrifice life savings and a 9-5 existence to follow their passion. Read about Deepak and Jana Nataraj and why they founded Cache District, a 100 percent organic linen company. We hope that as you read this issue, you—like us—find inspiration in the lives and
CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin EDITORIAL Kate Baxendale AD MANAGER Chad Jensen AD COORDINATORS Cyndi Harrington | Alicia Huff | Jessica Soetaert LAYOUT DESIGNERS Cyndi King | Dana Rudolph | Emily Stout Hailey Stepanek | Adella Wrisinger FIELD SUPPORT Carli DiMarco | Victoria Perry PUBLISHER SUPPORT Melanie Carlisle ACCOUNTANT Austin Park APPLICATION ARCHITECT Michael O’Connell WEB DEVELOPERS Tejaswini Jagarlamudi | Harshith Potu
experiences of your neighbors and the connections that have been made. Happy Thanksgiving, Midlothian!
ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON
Jennifer and Christian Sowers, Publishers Info@MidlothianLifestyle.com
TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON
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Midlothian Lifestyle | November 2018
Midlothian Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Midlothian areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Midlothian Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
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INSIDE THE ISSUE NOVEMBER 2018 FEATURES 16 Meet the Owners of Cache District This Midlothian Couple Wasn't Impressed by Luxury Sheets, so They Made Their Own
20 Facial Hair for a Good Cause with Mustache for Kids Meet the Mustache Aficionados who Raised $268,000 for Charity by Ditching Their Razors
26 (Not) Home for the Holidays Three Chesterfield First Responders Share What it's Like to Be on Duty for the Holidays
36 Holiday Recipe Kim Buehler, Owner of Great Harvest
36 26
Bakery in Midlothian, Shares Two Great Holiday Recipes
20
16
DEPARTMENTS 6
Lifestyle Letter
10
Good Times
14
Around Town
16
Locally Owned
20 Inspired By 36 Culinary Creations 38 Local’s Choice 40 Lifestyle Calendar 42 Parting Thoughts
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GOOD TIMES
Chesterfield Chamber of Commerce Hosts Annual Gala & Awards Dinner The Chesterfield Chamber of Commerce hosted its Annual Gala on Sept. 6 at the Doubletree Hotel with more than 200 members in attendance. The night was a celebration of the year of member successes within the region and Chamber community. The night's events were sponsored by title sponsor Wegmans, platinum sponsor Westchester Commons, VIP sponsor Technology Assurance Group and more.
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Midlothian Lifestyle | November 2018
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Laura M. Broman, M.S., P.T., A.T.C.
Katherine M. Oxford, D.P.T., O.C.S.
GOOD TIMES
Families of the Wounded Fund Holds 12th Annual Charity Golf Tournament On Sept. 10, Families of the Wounded Fund held its 12th annual charity golf tournament at Brandermill Country Club and with the support of gold sponsor Village Bank among others. FOTWF gives 100 percent of the money it raises for support of family members/caregivers of military service men and women who have been wounded in combat operations or as the result of line-ofduty activities to cover various expenses while they are caring for their injured loved ones. Learn more at FOTWF.org. PHOTOGRAPHY BY BILL SHUGARTS
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Midlothian Lifestyle | November 2018
AROUND TOWN
BON SECOURS ST. FRANCIS NAMED TO LIST OF BEST HOSPITALS Several Bon Secours hospitals have been recognized
ability to share information with SonaBank employees and customers, access to the bank’s conference rooms for meetings and many other benefits. For more information, visit CommunityBelievers.com.
as a Best Hospital for 2018-19 by U.S. News & World Report, including St. Francis Medical Center in Midlothian. The annual Best Hospitals rankings are designed to assist patients and their doctors in making informed decisions about where to receive care for challenging health conditions or for common elective procedures. Bon Secours St. Francis Medical Center was recognized for the following: • Ranked High-Performing in heart failure care, hip replacement procedures and knee replacement procedures • Regionally ranked 14th in Virginia • Regionally ranked 3rd in the Richmond, Metro area • Recognized a Best Hospital in Central Virginia For the 2018-19 rankings, U.S. News evaluated more than 4,500 medical centers nationwide in 25 specialties, procedures and conditions. In the 16 specialty cialty. In rankings by state and metro area, U.S. News
CHESTERFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCES AWARD WINNERS
recognized hospitals as high-performing across
The Chesterfield Chamber of Commerce hosted
multiple areas of care. For more information, visit
its annual gala on Thursday, Sept. 6, and recognized
Health.USNews.com/best-hospitals/rankings.
award winners in the following categories:
areas, 158 hospitals were ranked in at least one spe-
SONABANK'S NEW COMMUNITY BELIEVERS PROGRAM SUPPORTS NONPROFITS
14
Corporate Citizen of the Year: Amazon Medium Business of the Year: The Chesterfield Observer
Sonabank understands that nonprofit organi-
Small Business of the Year: Church & Snyder
zations have unique financial needs. That’s why
Volunteer of the Year: Richard Swed, the Risk
the bank has created Community Believers, an
Management Group
innovative program with a package of integrated
Not-for-Profit of the Year: CCHASM
financial products along with marketing services
Member of the Year: Brad Strouse, EastCoast
and resources to help nonprofits grow and achieve
Entertainment
their important missions. The Community Believers
Rookie of the Year: Robert Esteves, Your Pie
program includes a dedicated website, merchant
Ambassador of the Year: Susan Davis, Cavalier Square
services that enable nonprofits to accept donations
Young Professional of the Year: Casey McNutt,
remotely, free checking, custom-tailored loans, the
Stonehenge Golf Club
Midlothian Lifestyle | November 2018
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LOCALLY OWNED
ARTICLE JACOB CLARKE PHOTOGRAPHY CHELSEA SCHMIDT
Cache District ships free nationwide.
Cache District Celebrates Its First Year in Business, Its Success and Its RVA Hometown 16
Midlothian Lifestyle | November 2018
Wilson Lee DEEPAK AND JANA COULDN'T FIND ORGANIC SHEETS THAT MET THEIR STANDARDS, SO THEY DECIDED TO MAKE THEIR OWN Caché District provides all size linens from crib to king.
IN SOME WAYS, DEEPAK NATARAJ'S IDEA FOR HIS BUSINESS CAME TO HIM IN HIS SLEEP. Growing up in a family of small business owners, he says he hoped
INTERIORS &
Boutique
VISIT US THIS SEASON FOR YOUR
HOLIDAY TABLE NEEDS
Specializing in Unique
would also provide flexibility for his family. Now he, his wife,
HOME & KITCHEN ACCESSORIES
Jana, and her father, Doraiswamy Sundar, are owners of
CUSTOM FABRICS
to continue their legacy, calling it a childhood dream that
online boutique Caché District, where they provide luxury 400-thread-count, 100 percent organic cotton linens at a
CLOTHING JEWELRY
fraction of the price of major retailers. The couple was first introduced to luxurious sheets when they received a set as a wedding gift, but they began the concept for the business when they sought to mitigate their son's allergies but were unable to find organic sheets at an affordable price. Deepak, a veteran of the Marine Corps, had also developed respiratory issues from his two deployments to Iraq. CONTINUED >
11456 Belvedere Vista Lane, Richmond
804.562.3382 awilsonlee.com
November 2018 | Midlothian Lifestyle
17
LOCALLY OWNED
(CON TI N U ED)
Cache District provides affordable, luxury 100 percent organic cotton sheets, shams and duvet covers.
"What we found was [other sheets] were overpriced, and they weren't really full cotton," Deepak says. "Jana's dad used to work in the textiles industry in India, so we knew that you can get really good quality cotton, and it's very reasonably priced, so we were thinking, 'What's going on here? Why's it so expensive?'... So that's where we saw a gap in the market." He says retailers often do not work directly with the manufacturers overseas but instead the product is passed along through several middlemen, who all add their markups each step of the way. The Caché District team traveled to India for research and developed relationships with suppliers. They work directly with the factories to keep prices low. The company launched in November 2017, shortly after Deepak and Jana moved back to their hometown of Richmond, and Deepak says a primary motive for the move was to start Caché District in the city where they grew up. Doraiswamy and Deepak manage day-to-day operations, and Jana leads product design with patterns Deepak says are "really meant to liven up your home." One unique feature of the product is that it is 100 percent organic, as opposed to the more common synthetic blend. Grown without the use of pesticides, it prevents users from interfacing with chemicals while they sleep, and its lack of pesticides is helpful for the environment. The pure cotton also allows for temperature regulation, absorbs moisture and lasts much longer than synthetic sheets. "The type of cotton we use is the kind that's commonly labeled as Egyptian cotton," Deepak says. "It's the same plant variety, so it's superior quality. Everyone that's slept on it has immediately said, 'This is amazing.'" The company is active on social media promoting their products and has lately sought to expand offerings and additional patterns to their portfolio. "Ultimately, we are an affordable luxury brand to not only add to the beauty of your home but to provide for a great sleeping experience for the whole family as well," Deepak says. CacheDistrict.com 18
Midlothian Lifestyle | November 2018
THE CACHE DISTRICT DIFFERENCE + Pure long-staple cotton for a thicker and silkier woven fabric and allows for temperature regulation and moisture absorption. + 100 percent organic cotton grown without the use of pesticides for a more restful, breathable sleep. + Bold designs and modern interpretations on classic and timeless patterns. + Prices on average one-third less expensive and better quality than big box retailers.
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INSPIRED BY
Meet the Mustache Aficionados Who Raised $268,000 For Charity By Ditching Their Razors
20
Midlothian Lifestyle | November 2018
ARTICLE ALICE MINIUM | PHOTOGRAPHY KAREN GAGE
CONTINUED >
November 2018 | Midlothian Lifestyle
21
INSPIRED BY
(CON TI N U ED)
INSPIRED BY THE NATIONAL MUSTACHES FOR KIDS CHAPTERS IN CALIFORNIA AND NYC, TWO RICHMOND-AREA PHILANTHROPISTS GREW THEIR FIRST CHARITABLE MUSTACHES IN 2003.
They started the Richmond
WHO IS MUSTACHE FOR KIDS RAISING MONEY FOR THIS
Mustache for Kids Richmond,
YEAR, AND WHEN IS ‘STACHE BASH 2018?
Inc., a volunteer-run organiza-
This will be our 16th year and promises to be the biggest and
tion founded with the goal of
best year yet. The growing season kicks off at Vasen Brewery on
raising money for local chil-
Thursday, Nov. 1. There are weekly check-ins on Wednesdays
dren’s charities through the
during the entire month of November at local breweries like
art of the 'stache.
Midnight, The Answer, Three Notched and Final Gravity. This is
Mustache for Kids Richmond's
a great opportunity to meet other growers, mingle with our chari-
hundreds of participants col-
ties and have a little fun. The season wraps up at the ‘Stache Bash
lectively have raised more than
on Friday, Nov. 30 at Triple Crossing Fulton with food and a live
$1 million for children’s charities
band. This year we will be raising money to again support The
such as The Children’s Hospital
Children’s Hospital Foundation, Greater Richmond SCAN, ASK
Foundation, Greater Richmond
Childhood Cancer Foundation, Feedmore, Cameron K. Gallagher
SCAN, ASK Childhood Cancer
Foundation, FRIENDS Association for Children and others.
Foundation and Feedmore. In 2017, the organization’s 15th year,
the group of 150 growers raised more than $268,000. We talked with Ben Keefer about his work with Mustache for Kids, how he got involved and his personal 'stache inspiration.
HOW CAN PEOPLE GET INVOLVED? Everyone is welcome. Just bring $20, a clean-shaven face and a desire to have fun and raise money for a good cause to our kickoff event at Vasen Brewery on Thursday, Nov. 1 at 6 p.m. For the $20 you will get a personal fundraising webpage, our 2018 M4K
HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED WITH MUSTACHE FOR KIDS? I got involved in 2010 after several years supporting many of
Richmond T-shirt and a month’s worth of goodies and fun. You can also register online at M4KRichmond.org.
my friends that were involved. It was a great group of guys having
If you can’t or sadly do not want to grow a mustache, financial
a bunch of fun and doing great things for the community. I have
donations and sponsorships are always welcome. Last year our
a young family, so it was easy to get behind the cause of raising
corporate sponsors more than covered our modest administrative
money to support local children and families in need. I was also
expenses allowing 100 percent of the $268,000-plus our growers
drawn to the social aspects of the organization. I have established
raised to go to our benefiting charities.
a lot of great relationships over the years, and every year I look forward to spending time with everyone during November—no matter how ridiculous we look.
WHY DO YOU THINK THIS CAUSE IS IMPORTANT? Children do not get to choose their situation. They do not get to choose their families, their health or where their next meal is
HOW DOES THE MUSTACHE-GROWING WORK?
coming from. Our charities are out there every day doing the hard
Here's how it works: Each year, during the four-week grow-
work to make the lives better for children across Richmond. I am
ing season spanning November and December, growers sprout
honored and humbled to be able to help in any way I can...and
sweet, sweet mustaches. Per Mustaches for Kids bylaws, they
fortunate that I get to have a great time while I do it!
shave their faces, except for the mustache, a minimum of one time per week and solicit donations from friends, family,
WHO IS YOUR ‘STACHE ICON, AND WHAT KIND OF
co-workers and people in the community—kind of like getting
‘STACHE DO YOU ASPIRE TO?
pledges to run a marathon without the exertion, cramping or dehydration. Call it a month-long facial hair marathon.
22
I have been inspired by a couple of mustached icons over the years, including Tom Selleck, Super Mario and Rickie Fowler,
At the end of the growing season, the growers hold a mustache
but I aspire to be like my father, Doug Keefer, who sported a
competition called the 'Stache Bash, which is a cross between a
sweet mustache back in the 1980s, participates and supports
beauty pageant, dog show and police lineup. During the compe-
me every growing season and is one of the kindest and most
tition, growers, often in mustache-enhancing costumes, are put
generous people I know.
through a test of mind, body, and mustache and allow their facial
Give back with facial hair for a good cause, or support your local
hair to be evaluated by an independent panel of judges, and one
growers at 'Stache Bache 2018 on Nov. 1 at Vasen Brewery. To
mustache is declared to be the "sweetest."
learn more, visit M4KRichmond.org.
Midlothian Lifestyle | November 2018
November 2018 | Midlothian Lifestyle
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Alverser Plaza, Midlothian, VA | 804.344.0150 Short Pump Town Center, Richmond, VA | 804.967.0800 Cary Court, Richmond, VA | 804.355.2136 schwarzschild.com L’Amour Crisscut® is a trademark of Christopher Designs. US and International Patent
(NOT)HOME FOR THE HOLI DAYS THREE LOCAL FIRST RESPONDERS SHARE WHAT IT'S LIKE TO BE ON DUTY FOR THE HOLIDAYS
WITH THE HOLIDAYS AROUND THE CORNER, FAMILIES ARE BUSY PLAN-
NING THEIR DAYS OF VISITING LOVED ONES BOTH NEAR AND FAR. Many workplaces provide their teams with time off to
celebrate, but other lines of work cannot
offer that same liberty. First responders must
be prepared at any moment, so many spend their holidays in the field serving those in need. Here's how three local first responders and their teams have created traditions to commemorate the holidays while remaining ready to serve the community.
ARTICLE JACOB CLARKE | PHOTOGRAPHY SHELBY ADAMS
26
Midlothian Lifestyle | November 2018
WHAT DOES YOUR WORK LOOK LIKE ON A DAY-TO-DAY BASIS? My duties include being the spokesperson for the department, social media accounts, answering media inquiries, as well as managing the community programs unit. The CPU has three educators that teach fire and life safety programs to schools, civic groups, church groups and businesses, among others. WHAT ARE SOME HOLIDAY TRADITIONS WITHIN YOUR UNIT? In our division, we are a close work unit. We always have a Christmas party together, along with a “goodie” day where everyone brings in side dishes to the office for a holiday office lunch party. Several of our staff, including me, are on-call during holidays and must plan accordingly with our families to make sure we are available to handle any emergency incidents we are called to help with. When I was assigned to a fire station working shift work, holidays were many times celebrated on other days than the actual holiday due to the fact I was working. It can be stressful among family members. HOW DID THESE TRADITIONS BEGIN? In public safety, it is important that work colleagues are close because we rely on each other so much in our jobs. At times, there are life-or-death decisions being made, and we must know we can count on our
LT. JASON ELMORE
colleagues. Many of these traditions in the fire service began to continue the relationship building outside the workplace. Public safety employees are part of a unique brother and sisterhood that is truly family.
PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER/ COMMUNITY PROGRAMS COORDINATOR FOR CHESTERFIELD FIRE AND EMS
CONTINUED >
November 2018 | Midlothian Lifestyle
27
(NOT) HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
(CON TI N UED)
WHAT DOES YOUR WORK LOOK LIKE ON A DAY-TO-DAY BASIS? In this role, I oversee five captains and five lieutenants, who oversee just under 200 part-time and full-time EMTs and paramedics. My daily responsibilities include general oversight of our staffing levels and ensuring we have the appropriate amount of staff throughout each day so our ambulances can respond to emergencies in a timely manner. WHAT ARE SOME HOLIDAY TRADITIONS WITHIN YOUR UNIT? For
many
holidays
such
as
Thanksgiving,
December holidays, New Year’s and Fourth of July, the Richmond Ambulance Authority has provided warm meals for the crews either before or after their shifts. EMS is a 24/7 industry, and while many of our staff members have to work during holidays, it has always been important for us to let them spend time with their work family while enjoying traditional holiday meals. For those that are not able to make it to headquarters, supervisors will take meals into the field so they don’t miss out. We also invite the family of our staff members to come and enjoy these meals with us. HOW DID THESE TRADITIONS BEGIN? These traditions have been in place since I started working for the Richmond Ambulance Authority and have been in existence since the Authority’s beginning. I can only imagine they started as a way to show our staff members how much they are appreciated for the hard work they do and again for the sacrifices they make by coming to work while most families are at home for the holidays. 28
Midlothian Lifestyle | November 2018
WES WAMPLER INTERIM DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS FOR THE RICHMOND AMBULANCE AUTHORITY
WHAT DOES YOUR WORK LOOK LIKE ON A DAY-TO-DAY BASIS? I work within the training division. WHAT ARE SOME HOLIDAY TRADITIONS WITHIN YOUR UNIT? Prior to joining the training division, our traditions on the road during the holidays would vary depending on our schedules. We worked with DMV, contributing items to cook out together there or make arrangements to join a trooper’s family for dinner. If spending time together couldn’t work out, we found out who had plans, such as families or kids in the area, and would cover the road and calls for each other so they could spend time with their loved ones. HOW DID THESE TRADITIONS BEGIN? These traditions were in place long before I grad-
WILLIAM BLOUNT
uated and began working the area, and they were quickly adopted as the norm for Christmas and Thanksgiving and soon progressed into Memorial Day cookouts if the weather and demands of the road permitted.
STATE TROOPER
November 2018 | Midlothian Lifestyle
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ESCAPE TO THE COUNTRYSIDE JUST A FEW MILES FROM MIDLOTHIAN
Explore Fine Creek Brewing Company
ARTICLE JACOB CLARKE | PHOTOGRAPHY SHELBY ADAMS
30
Midlothian Lifestyle | November 2018
JUST 8 MILES WEST OF ROUTE 288 NEAR HUGUENOT TRAIL, FINE CREEK BREWING COMPANY IS A COMPLETE COUNTRYSIDE OASIS. The focus at Fine Creek Brewing Company isn't only on crafting unique beers for guests. For co-owner Mark Benusa, it's just as much about creating an entire experience. "We set out to achieve something a little different with Fine Creek Brewing," Mark says. "Our aim was to create a place where people could not just enjoy our beer, but also enjoy culinary creations you don't typically find at a brewery, and a gorgeous, relaxing setting, with an inviting and comfortable vibe."
CONTINUED >
November 2018 | Midlothian Lifestyle
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EXPLORE FINE CREEK BREWING COMPANY
(CON TI N UED)
That setting consists of a 5-acre property in Powhatan near the James River and features a beer garden, an indoor and outdoor fireplace and 13 cottages available for booking overnight stays. Guests can enjoy a rotating food menu that consists of dishes made with fresh vegetables, fruits and herbs from their own garden. The brewery, which opened in May 2017, is open year-round Thursday to Sunday and produces about 300 barrels a year. Using a three-barrel system, Fine Creek provides 12 beers on tap with up to four new beers each weekend, including an emphasis on farmhouse-style saisons, grisettes and sours. Other types include fresh IPAs and traditional lagers. Taproom Manager Daniel Chiles says although they constantly introduce new beers, there are a few flagships such as the Tiger Yum Yum Thai tea milk stout. "The Helles lager is [also] a very popular beer," Daniel says. "It's one the brewer is most proud of. It's a light, crispy beer. It's just a super drinkable, well-executed lager. That's one that's pretty approachable for people who come here and say they mainly just drink domestics. We still want to have something that everyone enjoys." As the holiday season approaches, Fine Creek is planning special releases for late fall and winter such as a barleywine, a Scotch ale and a mint chocolate stout. With the fireplaces aflame, Fine Creek will continue hosting its Bluegrass Jams on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month and feature other artists on most Saturdays. The brewery recently entered into a distribution agreement and has plans to add its beers to select Richmond and Charlottesville restaurants. Mark says the business of Fine Creek's Daniel Chiles chats about the new fall/ winter releases.
the taproom has allowed the company to grow in a calculated way, and he hopes to continue appealing to both locals and beer tourists with an environment where guests can try something new. "We hope to see the same friendly faces in this taproom week after week while getting the chance to meet an equal number of new ones," Mark says. "If we can continue to make the beer, food and experiences that we love, at our own pace, then we couldn't be happier." 2425 Robert E. Lee Road, Powhatan, Virginia, 804.372.9786, FineCreekBrewing.com
32
Midlothian Lifestyle | November 2018
“IF WE CAN CONTINUE TO MAKE THE BEER, FOOD AND EXPERIENCES THAT WE LOVE, AT OUR OWN PACE, THEN WE COULDN’T BE HAPPIER.”
November 2018 | Midlothian Lifestyle
33
SHOP IN NOVEMBER AND RECEIVE A
MYSTERY
gift card
WORTH UP TO $50 Get a mystery gift card with any purchase—then bring it back for your mystery amount revealed at checkout between Black Friday (November 23) and December 23.
Learn more @UptownMidlothian
Serving Midlothian families for over 35 years.
Collecting non-perishable food items for Chesterfield Food Bank through November 20th.
from Our Family to Yours.
5954 Harbour Park Drive
804.739.1600 pbddssmiles.com 34
Midlothian Lifestyle | November 2018
B O O K YO U R
Family...
Fall
...
S E S S I O N T O D AY
Family Portrait and Wedding Photographer | Midlothian, VA 804.441.4994 | shelbylaynephotograph.com
NOVEMBER
16
th
7-9pm
SEASONAL MUSIC WARM BEVERAGES HOLIDAY TREATS
S A N TA
FOR TH E FIRST 250 KID 12 & UN S DER
288 & MIDLO. TNPK. SHOPWESTCHESTERCOMMONS.COM November 2018 | Midlothian Lifestyle
35
CULINARY CREATIONS
ARTICLE ALICE MINIUM PHOTOGRAPHY SHELBY ADAMS, GREAT HARVEST BAKERY
Pecan Pie Blondies
HOLIDAY RECIPE KIM BUEHLER AT GREAT HARVEST BAKERY SHARES HER FAVORITES
KIM BUEHLER, THE OWNER OF GREAT HARVEST BAKERY, IS A LIFELONG FOODIE AND NATIVE OF RICHMOND, VIRGINIA. “I have always had a love of food that began when I was a child watching my mother make chocolates that she would sell at local shops in town,” Kim says. After owning a successful research company for 20 years, Kim decided to follow her love of food and open a bakery. With a few culinary degrees from the University of Richmond
PECAN PIE BLONDIES
Yield: 9 servings
INGREDIENTS Blondie Base:
Pecan Pie Topping:
+ 1/2 cup butter
+ 1/4 cup melted butter
+ 1 cup brown sugar
+ 1/2 cup packed
+ 1 large egg
brown sugar
+ 2 teaspoons vanilla
+ 1/3 cup honey
+ 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
+ 1 teaspoon vanilla
+ 1 cup all-purpose flour
+ 2 large eggs
+ 1/2 cup chocolate chips
+ 2 cups pecan halves
+ 1/2 cup butterscotch chips + 1/2 cup chopped pecans
DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease 9 large muffin pans. 2. To make the base, melt butter and whisk in sugar until smooth. Then whisk in egg, vanilla and salt. Fold in flour, chips and pecans. Using a 1/4 measure cup, scoop into muffin pans and press down. Bake 20 minutes.
under her belt, Kim took the plunge and opened the Great
3. While the base is baking, make the pecan pie
Harvest Bakery on Midlothian Turnpike in spring 2018.
topping. Whisk together melted butter, brown
Now, she shares her favorite recipes with us.
sugar, honey, vanilla and eggs. Stir in pecans.
“Thanksgiving has always been on the top of my list for
Using a 1/4 measure cup, scoop pecan pie filling
holiday cooking and baking,” Kim says. “Every year I try new
over blondie base.
recipes and incorporate them with our family traditions. This
4. Bake 30-40 minutes until the topping is almost
year I tried to bring some innovative twists to some seasonal
set up in the middle when you move the pan.
flavors that everyone will recognize but will be something new.”
5. Let cool and then pop out of pan.
13541 Midlothian Turnpike, 804.893.4353, RVABread.com 36
Midlothian Lifestyle | November 2018
6. Top with whipped cream if desired.
Cranberry Pumpkin Cupcakes
Yield: 24 servings
CRANBERRY PUMPKIN CUPCAKES INGREDIENTS + 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
Icing:
+ 3 cups sugar
+ 2 cups powdered sugar
+ 2 tablespoons pumpkin
+ 1 teaspoon vanilla
pie spice
+ 1-2 tablespoons milk
+ 2 teaspoons baking soda + 1 teaspoon salt + 4 large eggs + 1 15-ounce can pumpkin + 1/2 cup canola oil + 2 cups dried cranberries
DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease muffin pans or insert muffin liners. 2. In a large bowl, combine all dry ingredients. In another large bowl, whisk eggs, pumpkin and oil. Stir wet into dry until just moistened. Fold in cranberries. Scoop into muffin pans 3/4 full. 3. Bake 22 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean. Cool 5 minutes before de-panning. 4. To make the icing: In a medium bowl, mix powdered sugar, vanilla and 1 tablespoon milk. Gradually stir in just enough milk to make icing pourable. Drizzle over cooled cupcakes. Store tightly covered.
November 2018 | Midlothian Lifestyle
37
LOCAL’S CHOICE
Five Inspiring RVA Nonprofits You May Have Never Heard Of SMALLER NONPROFITS MAKING A BIG DIFFERENCE IN OUR COMMUNITY ARTICLE JENNIFER SOWERS ONE OF THE BEST PARTS OF OUR JOB AT MIDLOTHIAN LIFESTYLE IS MEETING THE AMAZING PEOPLE SACRIFICING THEIR TIME, EFFORTS AND TALENTS TO GIVE BACK TO THOSE IN NEED IN OUR COMMUNITY. In the spirit of our "Thankful" issue, we wanted to highlight five local nonprofits that aren't as well known but are making a huge difference in the world with their work. These selfless organizations make us proud of our community, and we give thanks for all the ways, small and large, that they work year-round to make Midlothian—and the world—a better place as they support causes near and dear to our hearts. If you want to give back this November, feel free to give locally by supporting an event, volunteering your time or making a donation to one of these fantastic organizations. As always, this November, we're inspired by you.
38
Midlothian Lifestyle | November 2018
01
02
tary in several ways. They gift refurbished tech-
more than a quarter of a million dollars for local
nology including computers, cell phones and
children’s charities. Richmond Mom Prom will host
tablets to veterans and their families. They also
its 9th annual event on March 23, 2019, to bene-
hold classes for veterans and active duty mil-
fit the Virginia Treatment Center for Children, the
itary to become more proficient with different
new mental health facility born from the Children’s
areas of technology.
Hospital of Richmond. If you are looking to attend
TECH FOR TROOPS Tech for Troops uses technology to assist our veterans and active duty mili-
RICHMOND MOM PROM This
event
was
founded
by
local
mom Amanda Moore and has raised
Mark Casper, executive director of Tech for
a wildly fun, women’s-only event that does a lot of
Troops, says hiring veterans and providing them
good for your community, Richmond Mom Prom is
with valuable technical training is also a big part of
just for you! Ladies, grab old prom dresses or cock-
their focus so they are better equipped for a long-
tail attire and get set to dance the night away to
term career outside the military. You can make a
hits mixed by an amazing DJ. Dinner is served buf-
difference by donating monetarily or giving your
fet-style, an incredible silent auction will be yours
old computers, cell phones and tablets along with
for the bidding and fun prizes will be awarded.
any old cabling. TechForTroops.org
Facebook.com/richmondmomprom
03
04
THE RELATIONSHIP FOUNDATION OF VIRGINIA The Relationship Foundation of Virginia is
THE BEACON TREE FOUNDATION The Beacon Tree Foundation was founded by Tom and Diana Leahy in 2008 after
dedicated to building the fundamental element
they experienced the fear and frustration of trying
of strong communities: healthy relationships and
to understand mental illness in their own fam-
families. For youth, they have programs that teach
ily, navigate the mental health community and
self-respect and respect for others. For individuals
find resources to help pay for treatment. BTF is ded-
and couples, they lead engaging programs to cre-
icated to being an advocate for the family, providing
ate awareness and understanding while providing
support and financial resources to help children up
tools to sustain strong relationships. For new and
to age 21 struggling with mental health issues and
expecting dads, they equip them with the skills to
create hope for the future. Their resources, knowl-
be active, committed fathers for life. They are the
edge and support systems are vast to assist fami-
trusted resource for skills-based programs and
lies in getting help for their children suffering from
events for relational wellness. RFVA.org
mental illness and/or addiction. BeaconTree.org
05
Do you have a favorite nonprofit or inspiring project
OPERATION ENDURING WARRIOR Operation Enduring Warrior is a veteran-founded nonprofit whose mission is
to honor, empower and motivate our nation’s
you're working on in Midlothian? Let us know! We'd love to hear from you.
wounded military and law enforcement veterans through physical, mental and emotional rehabilitation. Their programs help participants overcome adversity and hardship through innovation, teamwork and perseverance. This ultimately enables the lives of our wounded military and public service veterans to go in directions they may have once thought were impossible. OEW is a 100 percent volunteer-run organization. EnduringWarrior.org
November 2018 | Midlothian Lifestyle
39
N OV E M B E R
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
1 DIAMOND AND DESIGNER SHOWCASE EVENT Schwarzschild Jewelers
Shop the largest collection of the year of diamond jewelry, engagement rings and loose diamonds. Represen-
wine tasting, live music and more. UrbannaOysterFestival.com
8-11 & 15-17
2-4
WRONG CHOPPED BY DIXON CASHWELL AND LEVI MEEROVICH Firehouse Theatre
CRAFTSMEN'S CLASSIC ART & CRAFT FESTIVAL
A parody of the Food Network’s hit series Chopped, this show fea-
Richmond Raceway Complex
tures four chefs who will vie for the
tatives from several jewelry designers
Consistently voted the "Best Arts &
title of Chopped Champion and
will be in the store showcasing their
Crafts Show" in Virginia, the Crafts-
must contend with baffling secret
latest collections including Christo-
men's Classic features original de-
ingredients, a host who may or
pher Designs, Gottlieb & Sons, Hearts
signs and work from hundreds of
may not be a dimension-devour-
On Fire, Memoire, Precision Set, Rob-
talented artists and craftspeople
ing Eldritch God and an utter lack
ert Procop and Suna Bros. Gift with
from across the nation. Find thou-
of
purchase and special financing avail-
sands of choices from function-
for the laughs, stay for the thrills.
able. Schwarzschild.com
al to whimsical, decorative to fun
FirehouseTheatre.org
1-4
convention.
Come
and conservative to funky including food, home decor, jewelry and more. GilmoreShows.com
10
FIRE, FLOUR & FORK CULINARY CELEBRATION
3
One city. Four days. All five senses.
2018 WALK TO END ALZHEIMER'S
ANTHEM RICHMOND MARATHON, MARKEL HALF MARATHON & VCU HEALTH 8K
Fire, Flour & Fork is a four-day gather-
Innsbrook, Markel Plaza
5th and Grace streets
ing for the food curious. It celebrates
This walk is organized by the Alzhei-
No
the best the Richmond region has to
mer’s Association of Greater Rich-
choose, you’ll see why Runner's
offer: its complex history, its rich artis-
mond whose mission is to eliminate
World named the Richmond Mar-
tic community and its established and
Alzheimer’s
re-
athon “America’s Friendliest Mar-
rising culinary stars. What to expect:
search, to provide care and support
athon.” Each of the scenic courses
a mix of dining events, behind-the-
for all affected and to reduce the
showcases street art and river views,
scenes tours, demonstrations, talks
risk through the promotion of brain
historic architecture and beautiful
from food and beverage producers,
health. Approximately 26,000 families
parks. The race routes treat runners
cookbook authors, chefs, bartenders
in the Richmond area are affected by
to an unforgettable tour of RVA that
and bakers—more than 40 events in
Alzheimer’s. Act.Alz.org
ends with a grand finale finish line
Richmond, Virginia
disease
through
2-3 61ST ANNUAL URBANNA OYSTER FESTIVAL
matter
which
distance
you
and post-race party on the riverfront!
all. FireFlourAndFork.com
40
narrative
4 MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL Carpenter Theatre
Four women at a lingerie sale have
RichmondMarathon.com
16-30 ILLUMINATE DRIVE-THRU LIGHT SHOW & SANTA VILLAGE
Downtown Urbanna
nothing in common but a black lace
Picturesque Urbanna, just an hour
bra AND memory loss, hot flashes,
from Midlothian, has been home to
night sweats, not enough sex, too
Central Virginia's largest drive-th-
the state's premier oyster festival for
much sex and more! This hilarious
ru light show synchronized to
61 years now. In addition to oysters
musical parody set to classic tunes
music begins nightly on Nov. 16
too many ways to count, enjoy a fire-
from the '60s, '70s and '80s will have
and continues through Dec. 31.
man's parade, antique car show, doz-
you cheering and dancing in the
Afterward,
ens of craft vendors, food, craft beer,
aisles! DominionEnergyCenter.com
where you can shop for one-of-
Midlothian Lifestyle | November 2018
Meadow Event Park
visit
Santa's
Village
a-kind gifts, visit Santa and have professional photos taken, and visit
the
delicious
concessions
with tasty food and hot and cold beverages. Nightly 5:30-10 p.m. IlluminateLightShow.com
17
their creations at this annual event.
CHESTERFIELD COLONIAL HEIGHTS CHRISTMAS MOTHER LIVE & SILENT AUCTION GALA
25
ShopWestchesterCommons.com
Cultural Center of India
16
A gala with live and silent auction
JIM BRICKMAN: A JOYFUL CHRISTMAS Carpenter Theatre
items, heavy hors d'oeuvres, adult
Be part of the holiday concert tra-
beverages and live music will be
dition of the season with Gram-
held to benefit the Chesterfield
my-nominated
Westchester Commons
Colonial Heights Christmas Moth-
piano
Sweet treats, hot chocolate, s'mores,
er at the Cultural Center of India.
as he celebrates A Joyful Christ-
music and of course, Santa! A free
CCHChristmasMother.com
mas. Jim Brickman delivers the
WESTCHESTER COMMONS HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING
gift for the first 300 kids 12 and under. ShopWestchesterCommons.com
17
on his 22nd annual holiday tour. DominionEnergyCenter.com
Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens
A holiday tradition featuring more than 500,000 twinkling lights, hand-
Some of the area’s most popular
crafted botanical decorations, model
restaurants
oyster
Brickman
carols, classics and original songs
23-30
17th Street Farmers Market
and
Jim
and
sound and spirit of the season with
DOMINION ENERGY GARDENFEST OF LIGHTS
11TH ANNUAL SHOCKOE ON THE HALF SHELL FESTIVAL
sensation
songwriter
26 JEFFERSON HOTEL HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING
shuck-
trains, holiday dinners, fire pit with
ers will serve up every kind of
s’mores and hot chocolate (for pur-
This time-honored tradition is in its
oyster—smoked, grilled, roasted,
chase); nightly family activities and
32nd year. Holiday musical perfor-
fried and on the half shell—plus
more. The region’s ultimate holiday
mances; the tree lighting ceremo-
beer, beverages and live music.
extravaganza!
nightly
ny; a host of holiday characters;
EnRichmond.org
through Jan. 7 (excluding Dec. 24-25).
Santa and Mrs. Claus; and the un-
LewisGinter.org
veiling of the Gingerbread Display
5-10
p.m.
made with thousands of pounds of
17 CHESTERFIELD COUNTY SPECIAL RECYCLING & COLLECTION EVENT
gingerbread, royal icing and can-
23-30
dy are among the festivities. This event is free and open to the public.
SANTA'S TRAIN DEPOT
JeffersonHotel.com/holidays
Westchester Commons
Westchester Commons
Regal Cinemas Parking Lot
Stop
Chesterfield County Waste and
have your family's photos taken
Resource Recovery Division is
with the area's only 19-foot San-
hosting a special collection event
ta Train Engine. Through Dec. 30.
for Chesterfield residents only. The
ShopWestchesterCommons.com
event
The Jefferson Hotel
will
include
by,
visit
with
Santa,
and
document
shredding, electronics recycling and hard drive shredding. Bring up to two boxes or three grocery
24
We are always accepting submissions
bags of personal paper for free
HOLIDAY CRAFTERS SHOWCASE
shredding. DO NOT bring in plas-
Westchester Commons
in our Calendar section. Submissions
tic bags. Fees may apply for elec-
More than 30 local and regional crafts-
are accepted via the Contact Us tab
tronics disposal. CVWMA.com
men and artisans showcase and sell
at MidlothianLifestyle.com.
for events you'd like to see included
November 2018 | Midlothian Lifestyle
41
PARTING THOUGHTS
FAMILY DRINKS WE LOVE THEM, BUT IT’S NO SECRET THAT SOME FAMILY MEMBERS MAKE THE HOLIDAYS A LITTLE MORE INTERESTING. CHEERS TO THEM!
1
THE MOTHERIN-LAW
INGREDIENTS
2
THE HIPSTER COUSIN
INGREDIENTS
3
( K ID-FRIENDLY!)
THE ROWDY NIECES + NEPHEWS
INGREDIENTS
+ 1 1/2 ounces vodka
+ 1 1/2 ounces vodka
+ 1/2 cup sugar
+ 1 part club soda or tonic
+ 1 1/2 ounces Baileys Irish Cream
+ 1/4 cup baking cocoa
+ 1 part Sprite or lemon-lime soda + 1 part cranberry juice + Lime and cranberries for garnish
DIRECTIONS
Pumpkin Spice Liqueur + 3 ounces cereal milk (steep cereal
+ Dash of salt + 1/3 cup hot water
of your choice—we like pumpkin
+ 4 cups almond milk
spice Cheerios—in milk for 25-30
+ 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
minutes, then strain)
+ Mini marshmallows and chocolate syrup for garnish
and cranberry juice to a glass of your
DIRECTIONS
choice—the more ornate, the better.
Fill a rocks glass (or any unconvention-
DIRECTIONS
Garnish with lime and cranberries if
al container you have laying around)
In a saucepan, combine sugar, salt and
desired and enjoy!
with desired amount of ice. Add vodka
cocoa. Add water and bring to a boil,
and pumpkin spice liqueur, then top
stirring for 2 minutes. Stir in almond
with cereal milk. Cheers!
milk and heat to desired temperature
Add vodka, club soda or tonic, Sprite
(don’t boil). Once at desired temperature, remove from heat, add vanilla and whisk until frothy. Top with toasted marshmallows and chocolate syrup— the more sugar, the better! 42
Midlothian Lifestyle | November 2018