LIFE + CULTURE
A FURRY THANKSGIVING
SPORTS + RECREATION
BUILDING COMMUNITY THROUGH FOOTBALL
LIFE + CULTURE
THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS
Welcome to November!
Can you believe that this time of year is already upon us? The rustling of leaves, beautiful, cool days with campfires, s’mores, and wearing jackets. This month, we focus on how very thankful we are to connect with your community, your families, and each of your businesses. It’s been true joy as we’ve created each issue to highlight the wonderful things Midlothian is doing together !
With that being said, welcome to the Thankful issue! This month, we’re featuring local businesses who’ve achieved so much by helping others, delightful bites with a mobile scene, community connection through sports, Thanksgiving traditions, and more! We’ve had so much fun with this issue, and we’re bringing some amazing new partners to your homes this month that you’ll want to check out in between the pages!
As we head into the holiday season, we are most certainly thankful and blessed to travel this road with you, our readers and partners. We look forward to many new adventures amidst these cooler temperatures, and we know the best is yet to come!
AARON SWART, PUBLISHER
@SHORTPUMPCITYLIFESTYLE
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Aaron Swart | aaron.swart@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Joanna Tannenbaum
joanna.tannenbaum@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Steven Casupanan | steven.casupanan@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATORS
Naylor Taliaferro | lcrmediallc@gmail.com
Steven Casupanan | steven.casupanan@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Amanda Rae Linas, Joanna Tannenbaum
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Beloved Pet & Equine Photography, Amanda Rae Linas
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
D i s c ove r t h e n a r r a t i ve t h a t d e fi n e s t h e Mo n t i c e ll o AVA f r o m t h e fi r st
v i n e s p l a n t e d o n t h e S o u t h we st M o u n t a i n s by T h o m a s J e f f e r s o n h i m s e l f t o t h e m e t i c u l o us c r a f t s m a n s h i p t h a t g o e s i n t o eve r y b o t t l e t o d a y.
V i s it sm vw i n es .c o m t o e xp lor e o u r wi n e s , r e s e r v e y o ur v i s it , j o i n o ur w i n e c l u b , a nd emb ark o n a jo u r ne y of un p a ral l e l e d ta s t e
V I S I T U S TO DAY S O U T H W E S T M O U N TA I N S V I N E YA R D S
L.A.U.N.C.H. for Life graduates learn about auto safety and mechanics from Mike Bruce and the team at Enterprise Mobility at Richmond International Airport. Photography by LAUNCH for Life
Allow That Inner Joy To Come Out And Play
Jewelry, Beauty, Scarves, Handbags
Come
Sassy Jones Flagship Store
Short Pump Town Center, 2nd Floor
Store Hours: Tues. - Sat. 11am - 8pm Sunday 12pm - 6pm
Bring this ad to our flagship store and get 15% off your first order.
GameDay Opens in Innsbrook
GameDay Men’s Health recently opened in Innsbrook, providing a variety of health services for men, such as testosterone treatments, erectile dysfunction solutions, weight-loss programs, and vitamin injections. The clinic aims to address men's health issues that may not be fully covered by traditional medical offices. With over 130 clinics nationwide, GameDay is planning to open a new location in Chesterfield soon. gamedaymenshealth.com/short-pump
Terra Forma Landscaping Expands with Acquisition of Miller Irrigation & Landscape Lighting
Terra Forma Landscaping, a Henricobased company, recently acquired Miller Irrigation & Landscape Lighting, a 24-year-old firm. Following their purchase of Robbins Landscaping, this acquisition marks their second in less than a year. The addition of Miller Irrigation adds a new service to Terra Forma's offerings, and all 24 employees from Miller Irrigation, including the founders, have joined Terra Forma. The company now has a total staff count of 70 and operates out of 3100 Aspen Avenue. terraformarva.com
New Gather Innsbrook Site Set to Open in Western Henrico
Gather is expanding in western Henrico with a new Innsbrook location on Cox Road in the coming spring. The 19,000-square-foot space, which will be named Gather West End, will accommodate over 300 individuals and include private offices, open work areas, meeting rooms, and recording studios to meet the growing demand for coworking. workatgather.com
Say goodbye to generic diets and stressful fitness plans! The SLIM SHOT MD Semaglutide Weight Loss program is an essentially counseled program by a medical physician, NP, or PA that can be embraced totally from your home (once a week injections), with all meetings with your specialist scheduled virtually. Individuals have lost as much as 20 pounds in just 2 months and up to 50 pounds or more in 4 months in obese patients. This revolutionary weight loss program is serving as a powerful tool for physicians around the world. Semaglutide injection has been approved for weight management by the FDA since June 2021.
CAMEO ON THE MOVE
ARTICLE BY JOANNA TANNENBAUM | PHOTOGRAPHY
BY AMANDA RAE LINAS
RVA’S BEST BAKERY COMING SOON TO A LOCATION NEAR YOU
Imagine the excitement of visiting your favorite bakery and café in Richmond, and now picture that same joy on wheels! Cameo Cakery & Café has expanded its reach with a charming food truck, bringing its signature sweet and savory treats to the community. Visualize a light pink van with Cameo’s iconic Victorian logo traveling through Richmond and the surrounding areas, providing the perfect opportunity to enjoy Cameo treats on the go.
Cameo’s food truck follows a meticulously planned schedule, making stops at various locations around town, including Johnston-Willis Hospital, Virginia Commonwealth University, and St. Francis and St. Mary’s hospitals. The strategically placed food truck offers a convenient option for individuals seeking a delicious midday snack such as cupcakes, croissants, or sandwiches during their busy workday. In addition, it provides a variety of hot coffees, teas, smoothies, frappes, and cold fruity beverages.
Cameo Cakery & Café is thankful for the opportunity to extend its presence in the Richmond food scene and is excited to bring even more delights to the community. To find out where Cameo’s food truck will be next, please check their social media pages for weekly location updates. You can find them on Instagram at @cameo_cakery_cafe and on Facebook at Cameo Cakery and Café . If you want to schedule Cameo2GO at your place of business or event, please call (804) 542-2020
trust the design
DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT: DEAUNTA CALVIN | HEIRS, LLC
When looking for a hands-on contractor it can be the reviews or word of mouth that gets you to the right person. You hear horror stories or feel like you can’t trust anyone. Deaunta has showcased his talent with multiple jobs in the metro Richmond area in renovating kitchens, primary bathroom, she-sheds and more! Deaunta Calvin is a true craftsman for his art and his passion in building and remodeling homes. He has had his hands in remodeling homes or commercial projects for over 7 years. Deaunta started his own business of Heirs LLC to help others out and teamed up with Vivacious Interior By Tiara. He is a self taught contractor and his work speaks for itself. He doesn’t have the average eye for labor or construction work. He builds custom fireplace built-ins, columns, closets and mudrooms just to name a few. He is a father to three boys who he takes on job sites to teach and show the value of hard work and dedication. If you are looking for a reliable, dependable and trustworthy contractor, don’t hesitate to trust Deaunta Calvin with Heirs, LLC.
BUILDING
FOOTBALL Community Through
HOW THE CVFA BRINGS TOGETHER FITNESS, CAMARADERIE, AND COMPETITION
ARTICLE BY JOANNA TANNENBAUM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMANDA RAE LINAS AND ADOBE STOCK PHOTO
Bradley Gamblin displayed exceptional foresight when he founded the Central Virginia Football Association (CVFA), aiming to blend fitness and camaraderie through flag football. Despite not competing at elite levels during his school years, Bradley deeply valued the unity and teamwork inherent in sports. His vision for the CVFA was to create an inclusive league where players of all abilities could engage in friendly yet competitive games, prioritizing enjoyment and fairness.
Initially appealing to casual enthusiasts, the CVFA’s welcoming and competitive spirit soon attracted high-level athletes, reinforcing its unique blend of fun and competition.
The CVFA fosters an inclusive and supportive environment that distinguishes it from typical sports leagues. It unites individuals from diverse backgrounds, promoting friendships and community spirit. Personal histories are set aside on the field as everyone competes as equals. Beyond physical activity and stress relief, the league has resulted in mentorships, business ventures, and lifelong friendships. “I got married in 2023, and my entire wedding party consisted of people I met through the league,” Bradley shares.
CVFA members frequently highlight the league’s provision of a dependable routine, a weekly focus, and ample opportunities for peer interaction. Many express profound gratitude for the sense of purpose the CVFA instills. The league’s competitive nature is a powerful motivator, encouraging participants to enhance their health. Numerous members, like Bradley, who experienced remarkable weight loss and transformation, have begun their fitness journeys through active participation in the league.
The CVFA is ready to team up with the Hampton Roads League, paving the way for an exciting increase in participation. With flag football now an official Olympic sport, the enthusiasm for the league’s rapid ascent is through the roof. Plans are underway to attract top-tier sponsors to enhance advertising and
The CVFA fosters an inclusive and supportive environment that distinguishes it from typical sports leagues.
marketing efforts and specific value-added items for the league to improve the overall experience. “Every time I feel a little overwhelmed by it all, I receive a message telling me how much the league has helped someone, and I realize that I’m in this forever,” Bradley says.
For more exciting details about CVFA, check out their website at: cvfafootball.com
Bradley Gamblin
PHOTO BY KAROLINA GRABOWSKA ON PEXELS.COM
MEET Lucy : THE DELIGHTFUL Cavachon
ARTICLE BY AMANDA RAE LINAS PHOTOGRAPHY BY BELOVED PET & EQUINE PHOTOGRAPHY
Meet Lucy, a delightful Cavachon. With her cheerful spirit and boundless energy, Lucy brings smiles wherever she goes. Known for her friendly nature, Lucy adores meeting people on walks and loves the outdoors. Hunting is her passion—she’ll even point at chipmunks and make noises when critters are nearby. When visiting a friend’s yard, she’s happiest standing guard, searching for critters to chase.
Lucy’s social skills extend to dogs, especially her larger canine friends. Her best buddies are Allie and Reggie. Despite her small size, Lucy’s enthusiasm is large. She often jumps up to kiss her pals and plays for hours.
At home, Lucy is part guard dog and part snuggle buddy. She watches the sidewalk from the back of the couch, barking to “defend” her turf with all 8 pounds of her. But when it’s time to relax, she’ll happily jump into a lap, ready for a massage, always sensing when her family needs comfort.
Smart, playful, and full of love, Lucy enjoys zooming around the house, cuddling, and winning hearts. She even won a “Waggiest Tail” contest once.
To submit your pet for a chance to be featured in Short Pump City Lifestyle, visit: belovedpetphoto.com/shortpump
THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS
A Celebration of Family with Matt Bricker
ARTICLE BY JOANNA TANNENBAUM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CREATIVE EYE PHOTOGRAPHY
As the holiday season approaches, Matt Bricker, a dedicated family man and thriving business owner in Mechanicsville, finds extraordinary meaning during this time of year. As he takes a moment to celebrate the blessings in his life and strives to strengthen bonds with his loved ones, Matt, a partner at City Lifestyle, says:
“Thanksgiving holds a special place in our hearts at Coastal Patio Furniture. As a small family business, we cherish this season of gratitude and togetherness. Family is always our top priority, whether traveling to Pennsylvania to celebrate
with extended loved ones or enjoying a cozy, home-cooked meal with our little family. This year, we’re staying home, savoring turkey, homemade mashed potatoes, stuffing, and our must-have dessert: pumpkin cheesecake. Fall is our favorite time of year, and we wish everyone a warm and joyful Thanksgiving filled with love and delicious traditions.”
To learn more about Matt Bricker and his mission at Coastal Patio Furniture, visit: coastalpatiofurniture.com
photo by kaylin jacobs on pexels.com
giving dip -
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD I PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack to share.
fig & honey brie
The perfect cheesy fall dip that is both savory and sweet. The chopped pecans add a subtle crunch that makes this irresistible.
ingredients:
• 8 ounce brie wheel
• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam
• ¼ cup pecans
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
directions: Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
garlic herb
feta dip
This savory dip is quick and easy to assemble and is perfect to serve with fresh veggies or crackers of any kind.
ingredients:
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted
• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
directions:
First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in an oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
NOVEMBER 2ND
Fall Charcuterie Workshop
Bite by Bite & Co. - Stony Point | 2:00 PM
Join Bite by Bite & Co. for a two-hour charcuterie workshop where you'll learn to create and enjoy your own charcuterie board. The workshop includes expert instruction and tastings of specialty fruits, cheeses, and meats, and you'll take home your own charcuterie board and food items. Until 4:00 PM. Tickets can be purchased online at: allevents.in
NOVEMBER 5TH, 7TH, 14TH, & 19TH
Drawing and Painting Fall Leaves
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden | 6:00 PM
Join award-winning artist Patricia Savage for a four-day workshop where you'll learn how to draw and paint vibrant fall leaves. You'll explore techniques such as applying aerial perspective, creating colorful paintings with depth, drawing leaves, painting loose washes, using dry-brush watercolor, achieving value gradations with color, and understanding color temperature and chroma. Tickets are $110 for members and $132 for non-members and can be purchased online at lewisginter.org.
NOVEMBER 10TH
Mimosa Fest 2024
Atlas42 | 12:00 PM
Mimosa Fest is an exciting daytime event tailored for mimosa and brunch aficionados. Ticket holders will receive a welcome mimosa, 1 hour of bottomless mimosas, brunch hors d'oeuvres, a swag bag, two drink tickets, and a "thank you" drink on the way out. Ticket prices range from $50 to $125. Beverages will be sold separately, and food vendors and food trucks will be available. Purchase tickets online at: eventbrite.com
NOVEMBER 23RD
Thanksgiving Centerpiece Workshop
James River Cellars | 2:00 PM
Craft your own stunning Thanksgiving centerpiece in a vase with assistance from Freckled Flower Farm! Your $80 ticket covers all materials and includes a glass of wine. Take part in a calming and creative session, and bring a personalized touch to your Thanksgiving table with a beautifully designed centerpiece. Until 4:00 PM. Purchase tickets online at: jamesrivercellars.com
NOVEMBER 28TH
Turkey Trot 10K
Bryan Park
Before you indulge in a feast, consider participating in the Richmond Road Runners Club's annual Turkey Trot 10K on Thanksgiving morning! Packet pick-ups will take place from November 26th to November 28th. A virtual event will start at midnight on November 28th. The Kids Run will start at 8:30 AM, and the 10K will start at 9:00 AM. Register online at: runsignup.com
NOVEMBER 29TH-30TH
Cirque Dreams Holidaze
Altria Theater
Cirque Dreams Holidaze is a dazzling and whimsical family holiday spectacular that combines contemporary circus arts with a Broadway-style production. The show features a fantastical cast of holiday storybook characters, aerial circus acts, jugglers, acrobatics, and more. The dates and showtimes are Friday, November 29th at 4:00 PM, and Saturday, November 30th at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Buy tickets online at: altriatheater.com
AFURRY TH A NKSGIVING
Thanksgiving is a time for family, warmth, and togetherness, but unfortunately, not everyone has a place to spend the holiday. This year, consider opening your home and heart to a shelter dog or cat from Richmond Animal Care & Control. By welcoming a furry friend into your family for Thanksgiving, you’ll provide a loving environment for an animal in need and enrich your holiday experience with joy and companionship. You could be the perfect foster parent if you plan to stay in town from November 24th to December 6th. Currently, homes without other pets are preferred! There is no need to worry about supplies—RACC will provide you with everything you need—just bring your love and care! Spread the word to friends and family who may be interested. If you want to foster a cat or dog this Thanksgiving, kindly email christie.peters@rva.gov
Open Your Heart and Home to a Shelter Pet from Richmond Animal Care & Control
ARTICLE BY JOANNA TANNENBAUM PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADOBE STOCK PHOTO
