Lynchburg Living Jan/Feb 2017 by VistaGraphics

LYNCHBURG’S PREMIER LIFESTYLE & ENTERTAINMENT MAGAZINE

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

Top Lawyers

The List to Use If You Need Legal Help

Want to Downsize? Tour a Local Tiny House

+ Special Feature: could Your driver’S licenSe Be at riSk? omni HomeStead reSort | tHe making oF ShoeleSS WonderS | rivermont makerY

What makes your heart sing? Health and happiness are two of the most important facets of your life. Sometimes they are abundant; other times you work to reclaim them. They come in many forms, and at the end of the day, you want to feel like you're living your best life. Knowing yourself and being proactive is always a good thing, especially when it comes to your health. With cardiovascular disease being the number one killer, one way to stay on top of your heart health is with our online cardiovascular risk assessment, HeartAware.

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Your health and happiness are worth it, take the next step.

Together we get it

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Jane Blickenstaff: 434.660.3773 (cell) jane@janeblickenstaff.net • janeblickenstaff.net kate Blickenstaff: 434.258.1400 (cell) kateblick@gmail.com • blickenstaffandcompanyrealtors.com

Sheringham n3820 105 Bridlewood Lane Pl (MLS# 302239) 3-4 bedrooms, 7 baths, 8,500 sq. ft., 10 acres, $1,300,000.

n 811 Old$1,950,000 Trents Ferry Road n 13662 Forest Rd: 6 BR, 5 BA, 8,185 sq. ft., 28.86 acres, (MLS# 298712) n 3820 Sheringham Pl: 4 BR, 4 BA, 3,882 sq. ft., .9130 acres, $649,000 5 baths, n 1125 Templeton Mill Rd: 5 BR, 4 BA, 4,086 sq. 4 ft.,bedrooms, 10.0010 acres, $699,000 4,898 sq. ft., 1.5050 acres, 811 Old Trents $799,000. 13662 Forest Rd Ferry Road

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your home, your future, my commitment. your home, your future, my •commitment. 434.444.3888 • Daniele@DanieleMason.com DanieleMason.com 434.444.3888 • Daniele@DanieleMason.com • DanieleMason.com

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SMILE SMILE THIS THISWINTER WINTER Actual patient, Kenzie Actual patient, Kenzie

Have a reason toto show your smile. Have a reason show your smile. At Central Virginia Orthodontics, we we areare dedicated to helping ourour At Central Virginia Orthodontics, dedicated to helping clients achieve a perfect smile withwith the the best care in ainrelaxing clients achieve a perfect smile best care a relaxing atmosphere. State-of-the-art technology andand the the latest techniques atmosphere. State-of-the-art technology latest techniques ensure thatthat each member of your family receives exceptional care ensure each member of your family receives exceptional care andand a smile theythey areare proud to show. a smile proud to show.

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THANK YOU We would like to thank everyone who voted for Lauren Bell Real Estate as Best Real Estate Company & Best Realtor (Lauren Bell). We look forward to continue serving our clients in 2017. If you are interested in buying, selling, or building a new home this upcoming year, give Lauren Bell Real Estate a call.

CALL (434) 384-1010

MEET OUR REALTORS: (from left to right)

Cole Rice, Realtor | Lauren Bell, Principal Broker | Valerie Manguiob, Ofﬁce Manager

VISIT OUR OFFICE:

4109 Boonsboro Road, Lynchburg, VA 24503 | MONDAY - FRIDAY 9AM - 5PM

EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE Lauren Bell Real Estate is a full-service boutique style brokerage company. We aim to provide the highest level of honesty & integrity to our clients throughout their entire real estate experience. Home to Lynchburg’s top agents, we specialize in the sale of residential, land, & commercial property in Central Virginia. We strive to be the real estate brokerage you can trust when it comes to one of your biggest ﬁnancial investments. Put our knowledge & expertise to work for you & experience the difference with Lauren Bell Real Estate.

(434) 384 - 1010 | 4109 BOONSBORO ROAD, LYNCHBURG, VA 24503 | LAURENBELLREALESTATE.COM

periodontal health associates Periodontal Care | Dental Implants | Sleep Apnea

Our office strives to bring our patients state-of-the-art technology to provide the latest advancements in oral health.

best wishes for a healthy happy new year from periodontal health associates!

New Patients Welcome, No Referral Necessary

525 Leesville Rd | Lynchburg, VA 24502 434.455.2444 | periodontalhealthassociates.com

At Thomas Road, we’re all on a journey – together. No one’s arrived. No one’s perfect. And that’s okay. Because as we study God’s Word together, as we pray together, and as we serve together; we’re also growing together. In fact, we think that's what church is all about. We invite you to join us on Sunday at 9:15 or 11:00 am to start your journey with us.

Stay Connected: trbc.org

One Mountain View Road, Lynchburg, VA 24502 | 434.239.9281

Sometimes, finding the right answers can be as hard as pulling teeth. Let us help lighten that burden at Mountain View Oral Surgery and Implant Center with your oral surgical needs!

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1612 Road, Graves Mill Lynchburg, Road 1612 Graves Mill VA 24502 Lynchburg, VA 24502 434.316.7111 434.316.7111 • www.lynchburgoralsurgery.com

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MOUNTAINVIEW ORAL

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Nadine Blakely REALTOR,® ASP, CLHMS, SRES email: nadineblakely@remax.net

MARKET ANALYSIS of your home!

(434) 444-2226

REALTOR®

email: stuartblakely@remax.net

(434) 401-9214

www.NadineBlakelyHomes.com * Based on information from the Lynchburg Association of REALTORS® MLS for the period Jan. 1, 2015 through Dec. 31, 2015

Nadine is the #1 Agent in the Lynchburg area * and #1 in the State of Virginia for RE/MAX . ®

TRUST the TRACK RECORD!

Nadine sells more than 100 homes a year! PUTTING YOUR HOME ON THE MARKET THIS SPRING? Let’s maximize your home’s value prior to listing! Nadine has been personally staging homes since 2007, and knows what it takes to STAGE to SELL! Call Nadine and CONSIDER it SOLD! Nadine provides you with: 1 A Written Home Staging Checklist 2 Recommendations for minor repairs and improvements to help sell your property for the highest price possible

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CO NTENTS

F E AT U R E S JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

54 63 71 93

COULD YOUR DRIVER’S LICENSE BE AT RISK? SPECIAL FEATURE

SENIOR SERVICES

ASSISTED LIVING DINING OPTIONS

TOP LAWYERS OF GREATER LYNCHBURG 1ST ANNUAL PEER-TO-PEER SURVEY

BEST OF LYNCHBURG

READER’S CHOICE AWARDS

W W W. LY N C H B U R G L I V I N G . C O M

CO NTENTS

D E PA R T M E N T S JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

ARTIST PROFILE

BOBBY FULLER Turning Trash Into Treasure

ART

RIVERMONT MAKERY Making Memories…One Project at a Time

HOME

TINY HOUSE FEVER A Glimpse Into the Social Movement

THIS CITY

21 154 23

HEART AND SOLE The Making of Shoeless Wonders

BODY

A LONELY DIAGNOSIS The Impact of Orphan Diseases

TRAVEL

154

OMNI HOMESTEAD RESORT Virginia’s Iconic, Historic Hotel

TASTE

159 IN EVERY ISSUE

167 12

LYNCHBURG LIVING

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

14 16 16 18 47 171 174

EDITOR'S LETTER LIVING OUT LOUD PICK OF THE LITTER UPFRONT LOOK! WHAT I FOUND CALENDAR OF EVENTS SNAPSHOT

159

FEATURE Come Out of Your Shell DISHING IT UP Shoemakers American Grille LOCAL FLAVOR Southern Fried Oysters COMING RIGHT UP Benny Scarpetta’s

GARDENING

167

COMMUNITY GARDENS Feeding the Body and Soul

LETTER FROM THE

EDITOR

can’t recall ever making a New Year’s resolution. It’s not that I’m perfect; there are plenty of ways I could improve myself. (Just ask my husband.) But the whole idea of waiting until a certain day to make a change? I’ve never been a fan of that. However, there is something about the start of a new year, when I go to write a new date on my checks, that makes me change my overall outlook. (And, let’s be honest—I’m probably going to write 2016 until at least March.) Anything is possible. I think to myself, “Maybe this could really be my best year ever.” This issue is all about being the best, starting with the muchanticipated results of our Best Of Lynchburg contest. I’m still floored over how many votes were counted on our website—165,452! Starting on page 93, flip through to see who took the gold in dozens of categories—restaurants, shops, area leaders…you name it. If your goal is to downsize in 2017 (especially after the typicallygreedy holiday season), you will be very impressed with the Fosters in our Home department who decided 310 square feet is all they needed. It blows my mind! We will walk you through their tiny house adventure starting on page 29. Another popular resolution: a pledge to finish what you start. I’m guilty of trying out a Pinterest project and quitting halfway through (usually after a few expletives, too). In our Art department, we introduce you to Rivermont Makery—a place where DIY is not so intimidating! And you can get started immediately with a special craft for your front door on page 26. Make your marriage the best it can be this year by setting aside some time for a special trip, just for the two of you. If you’ve always wanted to visit Homestead Resort in Hot Springs but weren’t sure, writer Jeremy Angione spent a couple of days there checking it out. Read about his experience on page 154. And maybe this is the year you finally branch out in the kitchen and deviate from the same ol’ spaghetti or chicken casserole. Intimated by oysters? Think they’re too fancy for you? Don’t worry; you have plenty of company. Our new Taste editor Rachel Dalton caught up with several local chefs to give you some confidence. Check it out on page 159! Whether you have a list of resolutions or zero, here’s to starting out 2017 with a positive outlook. I truly hope it’s your best year ever!

Shelley Basinger, Managing Editor Shelley@lynchburgmag.com 14

LYNCHBURG LIVING

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

Lynchburg Living magazine is a full-color publication that promotes Lynchburg and the Central Virginia area as a whole and prides itself as being Lynchburg’s magazine specializing in providing articles concerning upcoming events, entertainment, dining, lifestyle and community. We also include feature articles covering family issues, local arts, clubs and organizations. Lynchburg Living prints more than 20,000 copies bi-monthly and is featured in locations in and around the Lynchburg, Forest and Bedford areas with an estimated reach of over 85,000 in its reading audience.

Publisher Randy Thompson Managing Editor Shelley Basinger Editorial Director Angela Blue Contributing Writers Jeremy Angione, Shelley Basinger, Heather Cravens, Rachel Dalton, Emily Hedrick, Beth Hester, Megan Horst, Drew Menard, Suzanne Ramsey, Jennifer Redmond, Susan Timmons Vice President of Production Holly Watters Art Director Chris Meligonis Client Relations Manager Brittany Proctor Contributing Artists Josh Haralson, Corey Watson, Brian Woelfel Web Creative Director Chris Murphy Sr. Web Developer & Site Administrator Brandon Litchfield Web Developer Caleb Whitehead SEO Analyst Michael Saks IT Marketing Consultant William Warford Marketing Director Lisa Davenport Web Marketing & Promotions Manager Kathryn Kelly Photographers Tera Janelle Auch, LaShonda Brown, RJ Goodwin, Keely Miller, Jim Pile Vice President of Sales & Distribution Paul Brannock Account Executive/Team Leader Missy Celli Account Executive Carolyn Keeling Local Customer Service Representative Keely Miller Corporate Customer Service Representative Kiara Davis Lead Sales Artist Paul Cenzon VistaGraphics Staff Copy Editor Robin Cather Controller Anita Burns Accounting Manager Dawn Meehan Accounting Clerk Kelsey Stephens Office Manager Tracy Thompson

MORE ONLINE AT LYNCHBURGLIVING.COM SUBSCRIPTIONS AVAILABLE ONLY $9.97 PER YEAR ONLINE AT LYNCHBURGLIVING.COM

"THE TOP TEACHER ISSUE” March/April 2017 ADVERTISING DEADLINES Advertising Space Reservation: FEBRUARY 1 Editorial & Events: FEBRUARY 1 Final Artwork: FEBRUARY 5 For Advertising or Distribution Information: 757.213.2461 or paul@vgnet.com. Lynchburg Living is published bimonthly by VistaGraphics, Inc. The corporate office is located at 1264 Perimeter Pkwy, Virginia Beach, VA 23454. © 2017 - all rights reserved. Reproduction of any material prepared by VistaGraphics, Inc., and appearing within this publication is strictly prohibited without express written consent of the publisher. Publisher does not purport to authenticate and is not responsible for claims made by advertisers found within this publication.

CO NTENTS

We Don’t Rest On Our Laurels. Senior Independence Home Health Still Tops In Patient Satisfaction! Our patients have spoken. We’ve been named a best practice agency and awarded the Patient Satisfaction Award of Distinction for the second time from Fazzi Associates in one of home healthcare’s most respected patient satisfaction benchmarking surveys in the country. Senior Independence Home Health and patient satisfaction. They still go hand in hand.

Call (434) 386-3800 PHYSICAL, OCCUPATIONAL AND SPEECH THERAPY • NURSES • AIDES

3311 Old Forest Road, Suite 201 Lynchburg, Virginia 24501

www.SIhomecare.org

CO NTENTS Read All About It Our November/December issue included an interview with Hollywood screenwriter Randall Wallace. On the Lynchburg Living Facebook page, Evelyn Duncan Saunders called our story “a must read about Desmond Doss and the movie Hacksaw Ridge.” Thanks Evelyn!

Top Teachers Search We received over 70 nominations in this year’s Top Teachers contest. Our panel of judges scrutinized the nomination forms to find the best of the best. Look for the winners in the March/April issue!

Giving Back Awards On November 3, Lynchburg Living invited representatives from 25 nonprofits to a special event in their honor for the 3rd annual Giving Back Awards. Flip to page 172 for a full recap of the event, including photos!

Lynchburg’s Cutest Baby Chubby cheeks, tiny little toes, sparkling eyes. All babies are adorable. But is yours Lynchburg’s Cutest Baby? Visit LynchburgLiving.com and nominate your child today! Nominations end February 25. The results will be published in the May/June issue of Lynchburg Living.

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Write to Feedback, Lynchburg Living magazine, 115 Goldenrod Place, Lynchburg, VA 24502. Send e-mail to feedback@lynchburgmag.com. Correspondents must identify themselves; names may be withheld on request. Lynchburg Living may edit or condense letters.

MEET “RUM”

EVERY ISSUE, LYNCHBURG LIVING PARTNERS WITH THE LYNCHBURG HUMANE SOCIETY

PICK OF THE LITTER Rum is a gentle, calm 7-month-old shepherd mix. He is already 50 pounds and is expected to grow a bit more. Rum can be a little shy at first but loves scratches and playing with toys. He would love to have a family of his own to take him for adventures outside and give him a warm bed to lay in. He also does well with kids and other dogs. If you want to meet this stunning boy, come by the LHS Center for Pets today!

If you are interested in Rum, please call the Lynchburg Humane Society (434) 448-0088 or visit the shelter at 1211 Old Graves Mill Road.

UPDATE: Great News! Our November/December “Pick of the Litter” Starbuck is still available for adoption!

NEED COMPASSION YOU

THEY DESERVE VAVetSpecialists.com

LYNCHBURG LIVING

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

A referral appointment can be made through your veterinarian or by calling

We offer the highest quality of surgical, internal medicine and cardiology care available for your companion.

434.845.2957 3432 Odd Fellows Rd. Lynchburg, VA 24501

Now is the time to start planning for the New Year. If you are thinking about making a move in 2017, Call, E-mail or Text me today to schedule an appointment for me to come see your home and give you a FREE MARKET ANALYSIS. Over the years I have helped many individuals and families purchase and sell their homes. I would like to personally help you too.

“We’ve had three transactions with Brandi, both buying and selling, and she is extremely personal and professional. She is readily available and accessible.” “Every transaction went smoothly and Brandi represented our family very well through all of the processes. She goes above and beyond assisting with the fine details that come along with the transactions and moving.”

“We would recommend her to anyone!!!!” The Newman Family

Associate Broker, ABR, CRS, GRI

434-942-7003

brandismithrealestate@gmail.com

For Tools & Information to Assist You in Buying or Selling Your Home Visit My Website

www.LynchburgVaRealEstate.com

Money Savvy

Complimentary Seminars by Amanda E. Stiff

Woman

Financial Resolutions and Invest for Your Stage in Life Thursday, February 9th Revive Your Retirement Savings Thursday, March 16th Get An A+ in Retirement 101 Wednesday, May 3rd Investing Thursday, October 5th AccessAdvisorsLLC.com for time and location. kcook@AccessAdvisorsLLC.com 941 366 7504

941 366 7504 astiff@AccessAdvisorsLLC.com

None of her jewelry is made for the masses, nor are they fashioned to follow trends. Each piece is a unique piece of art. Without a doubt, you will find at least one that speaks to you. There’s jewelry and then there’s Just Liz Jewelry.

1305 Langhorne Road Lynchburg, VA 24503 1990 Main Street Suite 750 Sarasota, FL 34236

Security and Advisory services offered through Harbor Financial Services, LLC Member FINRA/SIPC clearing through Raymond James & Associates, Inc. Member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC. Access Advisors, LLC is not an affiliate nor subsidiary of Harbor Financial Services, LLC

5032 Boonsboro Rd. | Lynchburg, VA 24503 | 434-384-1828 | justliz.net

W W W. LY N C H B U R G L I V I N G . C O M

UPFRO NT

Mark Your Calendars January/February Cookiefest 2017: January 14, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Put your New Year’s Resolution on hold for a day, and head to Heritage United Methodist Church for Cookiefest 2017. This family event includes tasty samples from a Cookie Cook Off Contest, face painting, nature learning activities and more. Admission is $5 (free adult with each accompanying child). All proceeds benefit Camp Sacajawea.

“Doublewide Texas”: February 17-18, 24-26 Beat the winter blues, and visit the

New Year’s Resolutions BY THE NUMBERS

t’s safe to say there is a love/hate relationship with New Year’s resolutions. On January 1, they are empowering, a positive declaration of self-improvement. But as time wears on, many are left feeling defeated by their lack of will power. According to Statistic Brain Research Institute, about 45 percent of Americans make resolutions every year. Only 8 percent are successful in keeping theirs. If you break down the numbers even more, while 75 percent maintain their resolutions through the first week, only 46 percent are successful past six months. So—what to do? How can you avoid being a part of the 92 percent that is unsuccessful? The American Psychological Association (APA) says start small; make resolutions you think you can keep. Change one behavior at a time; don’t think you have to fix everything in your life at once. It’s also a good idea to talk about it with family and friends and ask for support when you need it. Finally, don’t beat yourself up! As the APA says, “Perfection is unattainable.”

The Top Five Resolutions*

written by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope

1. Lose weight 2. Get organized 3. Spend less, save more 4. Enjoy life to the fullest 5. Stay fit and healthy

and Jamie Wooten. The plot centers

*Statistic Brain Research Institute

Renaissance Theatre for “Doublewide Texas,” a hilarious, fast-paced comedy

around one of the smallest trailer parks in Texas that’s fighting a town’s move to annex them. Buy tickets at Etix.com.

Red Carpet Gala: February 25, 5 – 11 p.m. Even though we are 2,500 miles from Hollywood, you

Behind the Scenes

can still feel like you’re a

Photographer Jim Pile spent two days getting the best shots possible of our Best Of Lynchburg winners. While some photographers won’t show their work until after the editing phase, Jim doesn’t mind one bit. He invited the staff at Maven Salon to gather around his camera after their shoot!

celebrity at the Red Carpet Gala for United Way at the Academy Center for the Arts. Dust off that fancy dress or tux, and enjoy this evening of delicious cuisine, a live/silent auction and dancing. Tickets for sale at UnitedWayCV.org.

On page 93, check out the full Best Of listings!

Local Openings & Closings Hello! to a new location of Gladiola Girls, now open in Boonsboro Shopping Center. Hello! to the much-anticipated Dunkin Donuts’, open on Old Forest Rd. since November. Hello! to Jump Trampoline Park on Candlers Mountain Road in the old movie theater. Hello! to two new loft apartments, Piedmont Flour Mill (Jefferson St.) and Gish Flats (Court St./Fifth St.). Goodbye to Charlie’s Chicken on Timberlake Road. Hello! to Woven Devotion, a women’s clothing store in Cornerstone.

LYNCHBURG LIVING

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

Quotables “Me and the ‘old girl’ [have] been together a long time. She’s an old girl, but she’s a beautiful girl.” – Kenny Gwin, Omni Homestead Resort staff member Read about the iconic Virginia hotel starting on page 154!

#LynchburgLiving We loved the simple solitude found in this Instagram photo taken by Jonathan Perkins, who enjoyed a cup of coffee and a game of chess as a way to relax. Learn by his example in 2017 and find a hobby that can help you unwind! Include the hashtag #lynchburgliving on your posts and your photo may be featured in an upcoming issue!

UPFRO NT

[ PERSON OF INTEREST] J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y

Ramon Misla David

OCCUPATION: Student

You stay very busy for someone so young! Let’s start with your education path at Liberty University. I am a junior at Liberty University. I’m pursuing a major in Biomedical Sciences with a minor in Psychology. I’ve taken major sciences including Genetics, Cell Biology, Organic Chemistry, Anatomy and Microbiology. Liberty University has been a stepping-stone to where I am today.

Aside from those demanding classes, you started an LU chapter of the Foundation for International Medical Relief of Children (FIMRC). How did that come about? This started during my last summer research internship. At the end of the internship I went to the NIH campus in Bethesda, Md., to present my research. There I had the opportunity to meet other students from around the nation. One of them had been a part of the Harvard FIMRC chapter. After hearing more about FIMRC from her, I realized this was an organization I wanted to be a part of.

Why do you have a passion for international medicine? Being from Puerto Rico, studying here in the mainland U.S., and interacting with international students have helped me realize that there certainly is a need for improved healthcare in many parts of the world, including the U.S. As an aspiring physician and Christian I want to do my part in providing this care.

You completed not one, but two internships with the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Getting one of those couldn’t have been easy!

Basically, the lab uses an animal model to study the fear pathway, mimicking PTSD. For my research, we lowered the expression of a protein previously linked to PTSD called FKBP5 in the ventral hippocampus (involved in memory formation). Our project showed that these lower levels lead to more fear that was harder to extinguish than the control group. Similar to what is seen in PTSD. Along with all the research done in the lab, this can shed more light on how PTSD works.

Once you leave LU, what’s your plan? Do you have a career goal? I know I want to go into medicine. I am currently considering pursuing either an M.D. or an M.D./Ph.D. Eventually, my goal is to treat patients, and I like the idea of doing some research as well that could go on to help more people.

Yes, it all started freshmen year during a meeting with a professor from the Eagle Scholars Program at Liberty University. He challenged me to apply to a competitive internship for the summer. I found the NIH’s STEP-UP Program and at first I was actually scared of applying. It was competitive and I felt I wouldn’t get in anyways. It certainly took a lot of time, effort, prayer, and motivation. However, I knew this was something I wanted to do.

And one of those internships put you in the national spotlight. Tell us about your PTSD research. For both summers I researched at the Ponce Health Sciences University under the topic of Fear Conditioning and Extinction.

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ARTIST PROFILE

Bobby Full er ARTIST

PROFIL E

TITLE: Artist and Handyman Awards: Best in Show, Academy Center of the Arts Juried Art Exhibition (April 2015)

Before we jump into your current life as an artist, tell us a little bit about your childhood. I grew up in Virginia Beach, in Norfolk— around those areas. Just a poor kid from the inner city. I did horrible in school—failed at everything. I dropped out in 7th grade and went to work like most kids do where I come from. You are becoming well known in Lynchburg for your sculptures made from recycled materials. Do you remember the first time you turned “trash” into treasure? Since we were poor, I didn’t have toys. I would go into the trash and find things and make them. I remember being 4 or 5 years old. I had a G.I. Joe guy, but I had no vehicle. So, I found some toilet paper rolls and made my own tank.

size. And sometimes it takes so long because I have to find the right element to add to a piece.

At what point along the way did you realize your pieces were not just a hobby—but an art form?

None of them… and all of them. All of my sculptures are built from my imagination and dreams. I call myself a “magnet to media” because the things I need to make a sculpture just come to me.

It gradually evolved. It started with toys, then I started building bigger things as I got older. I built houses for people, then built cars. And it kept growing. And you had a handful of jobs over the years that helped improve your craft? Right. They were all construction and labortype jobs. Interior and exterior work on homes. Landscaping. My art really does come from my work. How would you describe your career now? I’m a full-time handyman and artist. I just do what I do for the day—always something different. For about seven years, I’ve been committed to my art. I work as a handyman for the minimal amount of hours I can to eat and pay the bills so I can keep making art. Tell me about a few of your favorite pieces. Well, the horses I make are the best sellers. But for me, I don’t have one certain piece that’s my favorite. I put part of myself into my art so each piece has meaning and is original and is important to me. Even though they are made from trash, I treat them like they are glass. How long does it take to complete each piece? It just depends. I’ve had pieces take anywhere from a week up to three months. Depends on the

What is your favorite “medium”? What inspires you?

You have a nickname “Bartertown Bobby.” Can you explain where that came from? It has a lot of meaning. To start with, it’s my stage name… my name as an artist. The meaning is…I’m a drifter and a wanderer. I’ve never really had a home or have been accepted. I wanted to have my own town so I created one. Kind of like a place where I’m welcome and people like me, even if I’m the only one. You have a unique lifestyle to go along with your unique art. Can you explain the story behind the teepee at your house? I live in that teepee. Most of my art comes from thoughts of my childhood and my imagination so I try to apply that to my life. A teepee is what every boy wants to live in. I also have Native American lineage, and I enjoy having contact with nature and the environment.

What’s next for you in your journey? More participation in the community. Taking part in the community as an artist and as myself, trying to be accepted and show acceptance. It’s not about the money, not about things I can sell but about giving from the gift. I hope to show that you can make a life from art, by living my art and all the aspects of it. How can readers get in touch with you? They can call or text me at (434) 544-1182. I also keep in touch with the community on Facebook and on Instagram (@barter_town_bobby).

Want to see Bobby’s work for yourself? See the details below of his current art show!

“Bartertown Art” Academy Center of the Arts, Ann White Gallery January 6 – January 28

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W W W. LY N C H B U R G L I V I N G . C O M

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[ ART]

Rivermont Makery: MAKING MEMORIES… ONE PROJECT AT A TIME BY EMILY HEDRICK

hoto-sharing website Pinterest is undoubtedly a great source of ideas and

inspiration. Users can create themed boards for things like recipes and clothes and then search for and “pin” images to those boards. One of the most popular board themes is DIY crafts and projects as more and more people are electing to make their own decor and gifts rather than simply buying mass-produced items from stores. >>

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ART

THE PERFECT HOME—Rivermont Makery opened on Rivermont Avenue last August (above). Owner Laura Watts (right) chose the area for its “timeless feel.”

When it comes to these DIY images and tutorials, however, Pinterest can sometimes fall short. Unclear directions can lead to what are known as “Pinterest fails”: unsuccessful but admittedly humorous attempts to recreate pinned crafts. New Lynchburg crafting haven Rivermont Makery has the solution to this problem.

I can remember saying even when I was very little, ‘I’m going to

Like Pinterest, Rivermont Makery offers DIY inspiration, but it

live here one day.’ There is something about the timeless feel of this

also offers things that Pinterest can’t. For starters, it boasts expert

street and the beautiful homes that line it that I just love. It’s home.”

instructors who will help you avoid DIY disasters; they specialize in activities like painting, drawing, ceramics, photography and sewing. The business also offers access to arts and crafts supplies in both class and open studio settings. Owner Laura Watts has over 17 years of experience in the art industry. She opened Rivermont Makery in August 2016 after discovering she had a knack for teaching what she herself has learned. “To be completely honest, the idea for the makery just kind of happened!” Watts exclaims. “For as long as I can remember, I have always loved arts and crafts, and as I got older I found myself exploring both of those options further in college. With my degree in Fine Art, I went on to work in interior design and decorating, furniture refinishing, faux painting and murals, and then went into graphic design and finally slowed down and found myself teaching all that I

“

space where all feel welcome. “Our vision for

For as long as

I can remember, I have always loved arts and crafts, and as I

got older I found

able to come, use the space, use special supplies and just unwind,” Watts says. “I would love to have home school groups, Boy and Girl Scout troops, book clubs, small groups, etc. involved in creating! [Rivermont Makery is] a place to come, craft and create, and get out a little more!” There are several different options for those interested in participating in projects at the makery. Monthly and yearly membership options are available for adults and children, and there is

both of those

which includes admission to “Kids Crafternoons”

”

options further...

Watts found the perfect home for her business

this program is for everyone, young and old, to be

myself exploring

had acquired.”

This notion of home carries over into Watts’ business philosophy; she and her team strive to offer a fun, relaxing and collaborative

a Mini-Makers Club for children ages four to 12, programs. These membership options include access to open studio time and arts and crafts materials as well as discounts on classes. Non-members may also use the open studio

on Rivermont Avenue, an area that inspires her both artistically and

for an hourly fee. A schedule of upcoming classes is available on

personally. “Lynchburg, especially this Boonsboro/Rivermont area,

Rivermont Makery’s website (rivermontmakery.com), and those

is just perfect for this business,” she says. “My aunt and uncle lived

who wish to attend a specific class can purchase admission online.

just across the street on Elmwood, and I spent a lot of time there.

Private parties are also available.

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ART When it comes to selecting what classes to offer, Watts and her

Regardless of a given day’s goings-on, Watts is inspired by the

team of instructors seek exciting ideas from Pinterest and put their

constant love for crafting and sense of community at the heart of the

own spins on them to create unique crafting experiences. “I am

makery and its customers. “Handmade products are more than just

always perusing Pinterest,” Watts says. “If something catches my

a product; there is love, creativity and uniqueness in each item,” she

eye or one of our instructors sees something unique, we do it! It’s

says. “Handmade goods always feel more personal to me. I also love

really that simple. We don’t follow trends and really seek to provide

that here at the makery, it often feels like a craftsman community.

new and unique activities for everyone!”

We learn from one another, and there is a sense of fellowship that

Among the classes Rivermont Makery has offered are hand lettering, watercolor monograms, passion tea sugar scrubs, open air terrariums, canvas embossing, and string cactus art. In November, the makery transformed into Hogwarts by offering several crafts from the world of Harry Potter; attendees made their own mandrakes, wands, golden Snitch bath bombs, and more. Watts says the bath bomb projects were her favorite: “They make the whole place smell great, and it’s so fun seeing everyone so excited when they come out of the molds.” In December, attendees traveled to a galaxy far, far away with Star Wars–inspired crafts and activities. Watts hopes to offer more events inspired by pop culture in 2017.

you can’t get in a shopping mall.”

Whether you visit the open studio for an hour, become a member, or take a class or 20, Watts and her Rivermont Makery team hope your experience is one you will cherish. “Our goal is to make certain your time in the makery is a memory, and one you will want to revisit again and again.” >>

“We are planning to have a lot more themed events,” she says. “We are also exploring wood burning, more advanced level creative lettering and calligraphy workshops, silk painting, and experimenting with some cookie decorating!” Watts encourages those who are interested in becoming an instructor at the makery to fill out a form on their website: “We are always looking for makers! We want to showcase the best Lynchburg has to offer.” One of the current instructors, Azalea Faye Smith, teaches children’s craft classes such as collage, nature art, fairy houses and flower crowns. “I’ve been with the makery from the beginning, before they opened the doors,” Smith says. “I love being an instructor at the makery because the owner is so genuinely nice and supportive of all of my ideas. Laura and her husband are two of the most hilarious people I’ve ever met. I also have to mention how pretty the space is, and it has the most awesome natural lighting.”

ABOVE: Watts and her husband have some fun with the Harry Potter props. They hope to offer more pop culture–inspired events in 2017.

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Yarn & String Winter Wreath BY LAURA WATTS This project is best done while watching TV, chatting with friends and just spending time relaxing. It’s not only simple but also very helpful for those “after holiday blues”! YOU WILL NEED: 1 large MDF craft ring Variety of Styrofoam balls in different sizes (Cheaper option: use newspaper and masking tape) 3 to 5 different colors of yarn, string or fabric strips Other objects (Can be natural or artificial such as pine cones or ornaments) Standard glue gun Approx. 15-20 standard glue sticks DIRECTIONS: To begin, wrap your Styrofoam balls with yarn, alternating different yarn colors for different size balls. I started with just a dab of glue on the ball and then continued to wrap until I didn’t see any of the original Styrofoam peeking through. Then, simply cut the piece of yarn and finish with a dab of glue. After all the Styrofoam balls are covered, place them around the craft ring, making sure to disperse the colors and sizes of yarn balls equally. After I arranged them, I secured the largest balls first, followed by the medium, then small. After all of those were glued down, I used the pine cones to fill any holes that may have been allowing the craft ring to show through. Lastly, I attached the snowflake ornament to the back of the wreath so that it hangs down the center—and voila! I hope the warmth and whimsy of this wreath is just perfect for your home this winter.

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ART

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HOUSE FEVER A GLIMPSE INTO THE SOCIAL MOVEMENT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TERA JANELLE AUCH W W W. LY N C H B U R G L I V I N G . C O M

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“It feels like a regular house to us. We utilize every nook and cranny. We’re constantly thinking of ways to improve that.”

nstead of thinking big, more and more people across the country are choosing to downsize their living spaces. The average American home is around 2,600 square feet; the typical “tiny house” ranges in size between 100 and 400 square feet. In our

area, Dusty and Ashley Foster set out to embrace the social movement and even caught the eye of a television show. While zoning issues have kept them from living in their tiny home for now, the couple and their experience is a lesson to all of us on how to choose quality over quantity. The Fosters used to travel with Children of the World, the child sponsorship program and extension of World Help, a local humanitarian organization. As team leaders, they traveled for over two years living in a Fifth Wheel Camper. When they finally came off the road, they began to make plans for a more permanent dwelling. The Fosters were most comfortable with a small, compact space since that is what they were used to. Since an RV takes a lot of maintenance and can’t be altered to reflect their personalities, they opted to build a tiny house instead. It helped them achieve their dream of building their own home and was an efficient way to stay within a budget. Once the Fosters officially decided to build a small house, Ashley got in touch with the television show “Tiny House Nation.” After going through the application process, they were accepted and signed a contract with the FYI Cable Channel. With television cameras rolling, the couple built their tiny house over the span of just three weeks. Since Dusty owns a home remodeling business, building the tiny house himself was only a natural progression for this young couple.

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“They filmed it all. We built it,” Dusty said. “We built it from the ground up. We were the contractors, roofing and electrical—the whole family was out there working. We could have saved a lot of money, but we wouldn’t be where we are today without the show. We spent more because we did it in such a short time frame. It’s supposed to be our home, so we really had to go all out. It’s a very nice, upscale tiny home for a fraction of a bigger [home].” When the Fosters started the building process, they purchased home plans based on a layout they liked the best that would accommodate sleeping up to six people. The entire house is only 310 square feet; it’s 28 feet long, 8.5 feet wide and 13 feet at its

QUALITY KITCHEN— Often the most important room in any home, Dusty and Ashley decided they didn’t want to cut any corners in the kitchen of their tiny house. The space includes high-quality amenities such as granite countertops and a five-burner gas stove.

tallest point. With limited space, they found ways to maximize every inch throughout the house. Since they enjoy cooking, they made the kitchen a priority and installed a huge kitchen sink, decent-sized apartment fridge and a five-burner gas stove and oven. They were able to do a trade out for their granite countertops in the kitchen thanks in part to the television program. Underneath the cabinets >>

Tiny Houses—Tracing the Trend Each person has a different reason for choosing to live in a tiny home. One big draw is saving money; more people can afford to build a tiny home themselves. Tiny homes are also a more environmentally-friendly option. But there are also some major social circumstances over the past decade that have helped advance the movement. After Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Katrina Cottages were designed as an alternative to FEMA trailers. Although these were built as a solution to housing for a major disaster zone, those approximately 300-square-feet houses gained attention. Additionally, the 2008 financial crisis created a need for many people to downsize, causing some to look for alternative, budget-friendly housing options.

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A sliding barn door separates the bathroom from the living area (above). When needed, a couch in one of the home’s lofts turns into a bed (left).

they installed Mason jar lids that screw into the upper cabinetry base, holding common pantry items such as nuts and chocolate for easy access. Their small space is equipped with all the essentials including a washer and dryer combination unit. There are even two loft spaces in the house that function as both bedrooms and a sitting room for reading or watching TV. By enhancing the footprint they have, the guest loft bed turns into a couch when they push a lever,

The couple admits there are challenges to living in a small

utilizing the area not just for a guest bedroom but for watching

space. There is limited storage for items such as clothing.

movies and escaping from their two dogs. The bathroom door is a

Tiny homes also have to be cleaned more frequently since dirt

barn door that slides to cover a bookcase, maximizing both vertical

and clutter are more noticeable.

and horizontal space.

“It feels like a regular house to us,” Ashley said. “We utilize every nook and cranny. We’re constantly thinking of ways to improve that.”

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H OME When the Fosters consulted with the television program about the layout and design of the house, the network asked for their design desires. The couple’s preference for the interior was that the house reflect the outdoors. They achieved this aesthetic by installing wood-paneled walls, airy, fresh accessories and natureinspired colors (teal, light aqua and sky blue) that are much like the wide open skies that Dusty flies as a pilot. While prepping to be on the television show, the Fosters gave the network a certain amount of money for some of the furnishings and finishing touches, including accessories like bedding. Then the network staged the house for a surprise reveal. There were many aspects that were a complete surprise to the Fosters during the reveal, reflecting their true reactions.

LOFTY IDEAS— The Foster’s tiny home includes two loft spaces. One is accessed by a fold down ladder (left). The other by a set of small stairs (below).

“The main perk was we were able to do trade outs on the windows, insulation, floors, cabinets and countertops,” Ashley said. “We didn’t pay the full value, just taxes on trade outs.” Though the Fosters did much of the design themselves, program staff lent their expertise. While consulting about design, the producers wanted to know if they could >>

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W W W. LY N C H B U R G L I V I N G . C O M

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An airplane propeller is used as a ceiling fan in the home’s living room (above). Taylorcraft airplane elevators form the loft railings (right).

“go wild” decoratively or if they preferred to keep things within a normal design. The Fosters told them that on the outside, they could go as crazy as they wanted, but on the inside, they wanted a clean, rustic, natural aesthetic. On the exterior, they built the house with a shed roof to maximize head space instead of an A-shaped roof. Then, they wrapped it in sheet aluminum to reflect an old polished war airplane—something dear to Dusty’s heart as a pilot. From the side, it even looks like an airplane wing.

Incorporating aviation elements throughout the house reflected the Fosters’ personal interests. Ashley is a professional advisor for Liberty University’s School of Aeronautics. Dusty has a bachelor’s degree in Aviation Maintenance and is currently a student with Liberty’s aviation program. Some of the more creative aeronautic details magnified throughout the space include a pilot tube for a toilet paper holder, a Magneto Box from a 1940s AT21 Gunner as their kitchen light switch and an airplane propeller as their ceiling fan in the main living area. Taylorcraft airplane elevators from a little airfield in North Carolina were used for the upstairs loft railings. A wing rib was used as a decoration on their guest loft wall, and an altitude indicator became a decoration built into their moving stair case, which was designed to look like an airplane stewardess cart. >>

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“There are so many little things that speak to who we are inside the house,” Dusty said. The Fosters always intended the house to have a permanent location, so after building the house on wheels while airing on “Tiny House Nation,” they tried to find it a permanent home. In most cities, tiny houses are hard to classify—they are not mobile homes or RV’s. They are built to last like traditional houses by using traditional building techniques and materials with aesthetically similar designs to larger homes. These homes are built to the standard of a permanent house, but many times building committees don’t know what to do with them. To be a legal residence, the house needs to comply to all international resident codes, which means the home needs a permanent foundation, it needs to be connected to permanent power and it should have running water at all times. As the Fosters searched for land, they ultimately found a location with a house already on the property that is 10 minutes from everything and inside Lynchburg city limits. But when city

officials found out about the tiny house, the couple was told they had to move it off the property unless they made some big changes. “They told us, ‘In order to keep it there, you have to put it on a foundation,’” Dusty said. “So we started going through the process of that and started to realize that to do everything they said, it was going to cost us close to 10 thousand dollars to put it right where it’s at.” Unable to justify that expense since both Dusty and Ashley are back in school, they are now trying to sell their tiny house. As this issue went to print, they were working with one interested buyer, but no deal had been finalized. If a sale doesn’t happen, Dusty says they may reconsider putting the tiny house on a foundation. Despite the discouraging ending to their tiny house story, Dusty and Ashley are trying to stay positive about the entire experience. “It brought people together. It brought my family together,” said Dusty. “So much work went into [the house], so you hate to see it go,” he said. For more information about Dusty’s Home Repair business, contact him via: dustyjfoster@gmail.com. >>

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Heather’s Helpful Hints For Your Home:

MAXIMIZING SMALL SPACES IN TINY HOUSES, APARTMENTS OR LOFTS. 1. Re-think Walls: Retractable curtains can create privacy in

small spaces without the commitment of walls. Avoid partitions when possible in tight areas. Open floor plans create the illusion that a room is larger than it actually is as long as clutter is contained. 2. Make Rooms Versatile: No space should be given just

one function. By using all of your space for as many purposes as possible you can achieve a home office, dining room and guest bedroom all in one area. 3. Look Upwards: Installing floor to ceiling bookshelves or

cabinetry is an excellent way to utilize space and create additional storage. Floor to ceiling shelving can also generate effective storage for more than just books—it can hold dishes, clothing or baskets to organize items. Open storage draws the eye upwards and forces you to live organized since everything is so visible. 4. Let in the Light: Skylights and windows bring in natural light,

making a home feel larger. Light colors and carefully selected lamps or task lighting can make a space feel more open and expansive. Strategically placed mirrors can increase the visual size of an area and semi-opaque materials allow light into windowless rooms. 5. Invest Outdoors: Design an outdoor living space to add the

feeling of square footage without the cost of a lot of building materials. Patios, decks, porches or a gravel oasis can function as an extra room, adding to the value and footprint of your home’s livable space. Heather Cravens is a Lynchburg native with over 10 years of experience in the interior design industry, including owning Becoming Designs. Heather is passionate about creating environments that inspire and build families through the hospitality of their home. She mirrors that passion with her own family by spending time with her husband, their two-year old son and their newborn baby girl.

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[ THIS CITY]

LYNCHBURG’S LEGENDARY BAREFOOT TEAM INSPIRES NEW FILM BY SUZANNE RAMSEY

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THIS CIT Y

On New Year’s Eve 1926, 600 people gathered at the Lynchburg fairgrounds to watch the Shoeless Wonders football team, made up of boys from the local Presbyterian Orphans’ Home, take on the Steam Rollers, a squad from the city’s Fort Hill neighborhood. The well-publicized game, initiated by a challenge from the Steam Rollers, has been called “the most memorable game ever played by the Shoeless Wonders.” According to one newspaper account, late in the third quarter, Shoeless Wonder James Dunnett—playing barefoot, as the team had since 1922 [see sidebar on page 45]—picked up a Steam Rollers fumble. He ran 97 yards, scoring the only touchdown of the game. The Shoeless Wonders would go on to complete an eight-year winning streak, including six years of shutouts. Over the years, the team appeared on a Universal Pictures newsreel and in newspapers from as far away as Shanghai. They were featured by Ripley’s “Believe It or Not” and the New York Times. The story of the Shoeless Wonders is a story of brotherhood, finding family, and—of course—football. It’s a story that, since its beginning, has been made for the movies. Soon, that story will be told in a feature film written, produced and shot in Lynchburg. >>

The well-publicized game, initiated by a challenge

from the Steam Rollers, has been called “the most memorable game ever played by the Shoeless Wonders.” W W W. LY N C H B U R G L I V I N G . C O M

THIS CIT Y WINNING STREAK—From 1922 to 1930, the original Shoeless Wonders team was undefeated. The barefoot team continued playing into the 1950s.

In the fall of 2017, Lynchburgbased production company Life Out Loud Films plans to start filming Shoeless Wonders, a movie based on the Presbyterian Home’s legendary football team. In particular, it will tell of that storied New Year’s Eve game and the months leading up to it. Led by producer and creative director Sara Elizabeth Timmins, Life Out Loud also is the company behind Lake Effects, Wish You Well, and the just-released Coming Through The Rye, starring Chris Cooper as J.D. Salinger. The story for Shoeless Wonders was written by Timmins and Charlottesville-based casting director Erica Arvold, who cast Big Stone Gap and other films. Award-winning screenwriter and Lynchburg resident Rebecca Rogers Nelson wrote the screenplay. The movie will be filmed at various Lynchburg locations, including the Presbyterian Home campus, now known as HumanKind. According to Timmins, there will be opportunities for area residents to fund, work on and appear in the film.

“Those are aspects that make it unique,” Timmins said, “and when this movie is made it’s only being made because of Lynchburg and the community coming together, and that’s a big part of the story, in my opinion.” Timmins, who grew up in Ohio, first heard about the Shoeless Wonders three years ago, shortly after she moved to Lynchburg from Los Angeles. An executive from HumanKind called her with an idea for a movie. 42

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“They had a story they thought would make a great film,” Timmins said, admitting that while she hears that from a lot of people in her business, something told her not to pass this up. “I met with them, heard the story, and immediately my gut and my heart said, ‘You have to tell this story.’” Originally, Timmins said, HumanKind was looking for advice about how to pitch Shoeless Wonders to a larger studio, like ESPN or Disney. It took Timmins a couple more months to convince them to let her take the reins.

Using an independent company would not only give the movie a better chance of being made, Timmins said, but it also would “make sure the story was authentic” and “keep the impact local, not just through the message of the story, but through the production.” Timmins describes Shoeless Wonders as “inspired by real events,” saying that like a lot of movies based on true stories, there are composite and fictitious characters, and storylines that originate with more than one person. “For me, the biggest challenge in telling a story that’s inspired by real events is you hope that at the end of the day you’re able to tell a story everybody involved is proud of,” Timmins said, adding that the goal is “authenticity of the real story while providing a film that audiences will be driven to watch and be inspired by.” While the movie will be set in the 1920s, for example, many stories incorporated into the screenplay came from Shoeless Wonders who played in the 1940s and 50s. >>

THIS CIT Y

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IRONIC SUCCESS— As the Shoeless Wonders gained fame in the 1920s, Lynchburg was considered one of the largest shoe manufacturers and distributors in the world.

NEW YEAR, NEW

“Hearing the stories of these actual Shoeless Wonders from the later time period is what we based a lot of our personalities and storylines on,” Nelson said, adding that while some still struggled with memories of being sent to the Presbyterian Home as children, “they’d light up when they talked about football and sports.” One of the real-life stories that found its way into the screenplay is that of Cliff and Shirley Thomas, who both grew up at the Presbyterian Home. Cliff, there with two older brothers and a sister, played for the Shoeless Wonders in the 1950s. He remembers the first game he took the field for the team. As he describes it, he was 8 or 9 years old and “knee-high to a grasshopper.” After the kickoff, Cliff said, he “took off down the field,” running toward the opposing team’s receiver. To his surprise, no one blocked him, but he soon found himself facing the boy with the ball and thinking, “Uh oh.” “I wrestled him to the ground one way or the other,” Cliff, now 74, said. “My head was sort of spinning once I got up. I went back to the huddle and [Coach Joe] Blackburn said, ‘Who got that tackle?’ I said, ‘I got it.’ He couldn’t believe I got the tackle.”

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Discover

Cliff and Shirley Thomas

For boys at the Presbyterian Home, playing for the Shoeless Wonders was a rite of passage. Cliff’s older brothers, Glen and Jimmy, played, too. “I wanted to play, because if you were at the Presbyterian Home you played Shoeless Wonders football,” Cliff said, “and I always looked up to both of them.” Both Cliff and Shirley were sent to the Presbyterian Home after their respective parents divorced and could no longer take care of them and their siblings. “They told us we were going on a two-week vacation,” Shirley said of her and her younger brother. “It ended up being 11 years, but it was the best decision that they made.” Cliff, who like Shirley had grown up in poverty and without indoor plumbing, agreed. “We hit pay dirt,” he said. Without giving away too much, Cliff and Shirley’s sweet story of young love inspired a subplot in the movie. Despite the fact that boys and girls were separated, except at the dining hall and swimming pool, the pair fell in love. As Cliff puts it, “She was a pretty girl in a bathing suit.” This past Thanksgiving, they celebrated their 52nd wedding anniversary. “I got a turkey for Thanksgiving Day,” Shirley said jokingly of the man she calls “Sugar.” Asked what he thinks about the Shoeless Wonders story being made into a movie, Cliff said, “It think it’s wonderful. It’s a good story, and you can’t tell the story without telling the story of the home, too, which was a really great place to grow up.”

Why Shoeless? From “Feed My Lambs: A History of Presbyterian Homes & Family Services, Inc., 1903-2003,” by Mary Jo Shannon: “The Home could not provide uniforms for the boys, who wore their denim overalls, work shirts, and heavy work shoes instead. Some of the more ingenious players fashioned shoulder pads from discarded horse collars and blankets. ... “At one game in 1922, the field was quite muddy, and their work shoes prevented them from running with ease. One of the boys pulled off his shoes and ran barefoot. When his teammates saw how fast he could run they, too, removed their shoes, and the era of the Shoeless Wonders began, winning 51-0.”

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3 | Sleepy Light by Aloka. Designed by a parent to help both parents and children get a better night’s sleep, this nocturnal friend will keep watch overnight. The low heat LEDs can be dimmed, and it has a remote control to change its color and set the sleep/timer functions. Available at Givens Books-Little Dickens, Lynchburg; givensbooks.com

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10 | Golden Censer. Voted Best Light Beer at 2014 Microfestivus, the Golden Censer can be enjoyed by the glass at the brewery or available in the can at local retailers. Apocalypse Ale Works, Forest; endofbadbeer.com 11 | Aurora Seven Leggings. Winey Chicks Boutique specializes in one-of-a kind gifts, but they do restock a select few items. These one-size-fits-most, fleece-lined leggings are a favorite. Customers can’t stop at one pair! Available at Winey Chicks Boutique, Forest: (434) 610-9278. 12 | bareMinerals Makeup. The bareMinerals Makeup line was created “to enhance your skin from the outside in.” This comes as no surprise that the brand new Timberlake Family Pharmacy would decide to stock the line— filling a huge demand in the area for healthy makeup. Available at Timberlake Family Pharmacy, Lynchburg; timberlakefamilypharmacy.com

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[ BODY]

A Lonely Diagnosis UNDERSTANDING THE IMPACT OF ORPHAN DISEASES BY DREW MENARD

or parents, there is perhaps no more terrifying prospect than being helpless to protect their children. That is why early in child rearing the

slightest sniffle can activate the darkest parts of the imagination—the fear that this illness is more than a common cold. As time goes on, and ear infection after fever after flu after stomach bug pass, a parent’s mental resilience builds up, a peace that germs and viruses can be overpowered by the advancement of modern medicine. >>

W W W. LY N C H B U R G L I V I N G . C O M

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THE DAVIDSON FAMILY—Lauren is the youngest of three children. She has two older brothers, Ben (left) and Matthew (right).

“I assumed she had picked up something at the doctor’s office, so I was kicking myself for taking her,” Davidson said. For a few days, Lauren was bedridden. She wouldn’t eat, would barely

REALITY

drink and would only

While percentages may be in a parent’s favor, the truth is that not every case is the same and not every solution simple. About a year and a half ago, Susan Davidson, of Forest, noticed that her 11-year-old daughter, Lauren—the youngest of three children—continued complaining about pain in various places: her

crawl if necessary to use the restroom. Then, one evening, Lauren called for her mother in earnest. “When I went upstairs,”

In the summer of 2013, two years before her diagnosis, Lauren broke the Lynchburg Aquatic League record for the 25-meter freestyle at the “A” meet.

hip, her ankle, her elbow, her wrist. The pain would come and go—

Davidson recalled, “she

one day Lauren would be swimming competitively and another she

was on her hands and knees and she was hovering over a pool of

would say that she couldn’t walk or break out in a high fever, which

blood that she had coughed up.”

would disappear the next day.

Through 16 years of parenting, Davidson had never witnessed anything like that before. She rushed Lauren to the doctor.

“I just thought, she’s 11, she’s growing, The Davidsons wouldn’t be there long. it’s growing pains,” Davidson explained. “The nurse walked in, took one look at her, and said, “When you’ve had three children, and it is ‘Oh honey…,’” Davidson said. After some quick tests the doctor had Lauren sent to University Hospital in Charlottesville. your youngest, you have seen everything you can imagine in that period of time. You ORPHAN According to the National Institutes for Health (NIH), there are get desensitized to things after a while.” But in October of 2015 Lauren’s condition announced itself in force. Lauren’s ankle swelled to twice the size of the other one and was covered in a rash of red pin-dots. A trip to her physician turned up no more than a raised eyebrow—there appeared to be nothing wrong, no explanation for the symptoms. Four days later, Lauren broke out in a high fever.

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7,000 rare diseases—commonly called orphan diseases—affecting more than 25 million Americans. A rare disease, by definition, is one that affects fewer than 200,000 people. The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) notes that some orphan conditions have patient population in the low hundreds and are relatively unknown, while others are more recognizable, such as cystic fibrosis, ALS (or Lou Gehrig’s disease) and Tourette’s syndrome. >>

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BO DY Dr. Jennifer Charlton, Associate Professor in the Department of Pediatrics, Division of Nephrology, at the University of Virginia Children’s Hospital, added that “a lot of pediatric diseases are orphan diseases.” Furthermore, even after a child gets a diagnosis, it is not necessarily as simple as applying what has worked for adults. “The harder part of dealing within a rare disease is dealing with it within the context of a growing child,” Charlton said. “Although we may have good data on adults, there is always the question, ‘Does this apply to my pediatric patient?’ Most randomized control trials do not include pediatric patients. They have always been considered a ‘vulnerable population;’ there are a lot of different technical details that go into designing a trial to study a disease in a child that do not have to be considered for adults. Things like growth and development.” Because orphan diseases do not have broad patient populations, it can be extremely difficult to organize pediatric trials for them. Charlton said the medical community, with support, needs to work

toward setting up better infrastructure for collaborative trials across institutions.

MIRACLE The NIH notes that rare diseases are often misdiagnosed and may not have effective treatment. Just getting a diagnosis can take months or even years. “Common things happen commonly,” Charlton said. Since rare diseases can “look, act and Dr. Jennifer Charlton Photo Courtesy of UVAHealth.com smell” like any number of things, physicians are going to test for the most likely diseases first. She said that is the beauty of having tertiary centers—large hospitals with specialists that see referrals from primary and secondary care facilities.

“Many things can be taken care of in your local hospital,” Charlton said. “We do see (rare diseases) more often; we have it on our radar. It doesn’t mean we are better doctors, it is just that we have a different viewpoint.

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FAST DIAGNOSIS— On October 13, 2015, Lauren was admitted to the PICU at UVA. Soon after arriving, she received a blood transfusion (left). Doctors diagnosed her with Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis within 12 hours of admission.

HELP

“Community doctors work incredibly hard to provide excellent care of their patients,” she added. “We have wonderful relationships with these physicians, and we support these relationships as best we can.” When Lauren came in to UVA on Oct. 13, 2015, bleeding from numerous places and with extremely low hemoglobin levels, things could have gone any number of ways. Fortunately for Lauren, the doctors were able to confirm a diagnosis more quickly than usual, due to their familiarity with her symptoms. “The constellation of symptoms was suspicious for the diagnosis of vasculitis,” said Charlton, one of the physicians who saw Lauren that night. A kidney biopsy and other blood tests were ordered to confirm the suspicion. Lauren was soon diagnosed with Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA), a condition that causes vasculitis, an inflammation of the blood vessels. In Lauren’s case, the lungs and kidneys especially.

“The fact that she got a diagnosis within 12 hours of admission is uncanny,” Davidson, who could have chosen to take Lauren to a different center, said. “It’s not a coincidence, I really believe it’s not.” Charlton pointed out that Lauren’s example is extremely rare. “These are diseases that take some time and observation,” Charlton said. “Even if Lauren had been seen at the University of Virginia at the same time that she had walked into her pediatrician’s office, we wouldn’t have magically said, ‘You have this diagnosis.’ It is the persistence of her family and her primary care doctor that contributed to the rapid diagnosis in Lauren’s case.”

Getting the diagnosis was only the beginning. The FDA notes that in many cases, families struggled alone as they coped with a rare disease. Davidson recalls being warned not to Google the condition, which is called Wegner’s granulomatosis (a dated term) by many who struggle with it. Of course, she did and was not prepared to learn this “wasn’t something that will go away. It is lifelong, there is no cure.” Lauren’s treatment has included blood transfusions, chemotherapy infusions and a regiment of a number of medications, including immunosuppressant drugs. Her condition is monitored closely; even if she gets a cough or fever it is taken seriously and her treatment assessed. But through the darkness came some light. Through a friend of a friend on Facebook, the Davidsons were put in touch with a family in California also battling the disease. The power of social media connected them to an online support group of 20 families. Lauren was even able to meet a girl her age online who is battling the disease. “Everything changed after that,” Davidson said. “It was a godsend—I don’t know that if this had happened in 1995 we would have been connected. We would have felt far more alone.” Now 12, Lauren has had relapses but has also readjusted to life. She hasn’t gotten back into competitive swimming yet—mostly because she associates the atmosphere of indoor pools with the onset of her disease. Lauren has, however, been nurturing her creative interests with art. While not everyone will suffer from a rare disease, anyone can help fight them. Awareness is key, as physicians may not even know to watch out for many of them. More importantly, however, Charlton explained the need for better resources for the research community. Budgets and grants constantly are being cut. Electronic medical records are not being systematized or easily integrated outside of local networks. Initiatives to improve this need to happen, and people need to speak out. “If the general public would stand up and say, ‘We need more research on these rare diseases,’ and support research and establish more infrastructure and ways to do it, those are the kind of things that make a difference.”

W W W. LY N C H B U R G L I V I N G . C O M

M ATURE DRIVERS

Could Your Driver’s License Be At Risk?

V M D

NEW LEGISLATION WOULD ENSURE THAT EVERY DRIVER RECEIVES FAIR TREATMENT FROM THE DMV BY BETH HESTER

"Our society poorly supports individuals who

which may impair a patient’s ability to drive. In some

no longer drive. Patients who forego driving often lose

situations, physicians may have an ethical obligation to

independence, compromise their ability to work and

the safety and welfare of the community to report such

provide for their dependents, have difficulty maintaining

disabilities to the authorities.

social contacts, continuing involvement in personal

However, this obligation must be in proportion to

interests, and participating in community activities.

actual and relative risk and, in order to be just, must cover

Those losses have profound implications in terms of

all disabilities that convey similar public risk. Furthermore,

emotional and physical well-being, quality of life, and

the disclosure must lead to concrete actions in the

evaluation of self-worth. The physicians’ role often is

interest of public safety. Otherwise, the breech of patient

pivotal in determining physical and mental conditions

confidentiality cannot be justified ethically." 1

Grayson’s Story

n a late summer morning in rural Virginia, Grayson drove his SUV to the doctor’s office. He had a lot on his mind. As primary caregiver for his spouse who was battling Alzheimer’s, he was responsible for almost every aspect of their domestic and civic lives. In addition, the outcome of the appointment to which he was driving would help determine whether he was a good candidate for a surgical procedure that had been looming on the horizon. Thinking about the surgery added an additional layer of stress and anxiety to his day. He pulled into the parking lot of the medical office where a general practitioner examined Grayson for approximately 10–15 minutes. At one point during the examination, Grayson was asked to remember three words, words that would ultimately prove life-altering. Grayson left the physician’s office, completed his errands and drove home. 54

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Several weeks later, Grayson received a nondescript US Mail envelope from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles stating that the DMV had received unsolicited ‘information’ concerning his ability to drive and that Grayson’s driving license had been suspended immediately. There was no customary 15-day notice, no indication of who dropped the dime on Grayson and no option to submit to a driving examination or road test prior to suspension. Grayson was informed that if he wanted to get his license reinstated, he had to obtain a positive medical report from another doctor, a process that could easily take several months. Or, he could contest the decision, another lengthy route. Grayson was stunned to find himself so abruptly stranded. He considered the events of the past several months: Who had reported him? Why? What would he do now? Of equal importance, Grayson felt he deserved answers relating to the chain of events that led

up to his license being summarily suspended without the due process afforded other drivers in Virginia.2 Grayson’s fight would take over a year from start to finish, including six months trying get an appointment with a new GP, then with an appropriate geriatric specialist. In the end, he was diagnosed with ‘mild’ cognitive impairment and cleared to take the driving rehab evaluation, which might have afforded him a restricted license. But by then, almost a year had passed and, recently diagnosed with macular degeneration, his vision had begun to diminish. Grayson, disillusioned and frustrated with an already lengthy process, decided not to pursue further testing and to forego driving altogether. A tough decision for anyone. Grayson’s story is real. It could happen to you, to me, a parent, or loved one. Current Virginia law allows any medical professional to anonymously recommend to the DMV the

1. R eporting by Physicians of Impaired Drivers and Potentially Impaired Drivers, Journal of General Internal Medicine, September 15, 2000. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1495589/

2. Code of Virginia§46.2-322 (A) (B)

M ATURE DRIVERS to drive home from his appointment and was never questioned about it. Further, it is difficult to understand how the DMV could accept and encourage such reporting of Protected Medical Information under the “serious and imminent threat” determination when they are fully aware that their license suspension process takes at least six weeks to enact. Serious and imminent threats generally imply a 911 call, not a 6-week process that leads to a notification mailed standard US Mail with no proof of delivery. The decision to report Grayson to the DMV was triggered principally by his inability to recall those three words the doctor had asked him to remember—a zero score, which, according to

VIRGINIA IS A MECCA FOR DEVELOPMENT OF AUTOMATED-VEHICLE TECHNOLOGIES: TOP TO BOTTOM: “Explorers”

2015 egg tempera;DRIVERS Receiving A POTENTIAL GAME-CHANGER FOR MATURE the award for first place at the

3. Code of Virginia §38.2-602 & 46.2-322(A)

“

Hill Center 2015 Juried Regional

Show Opening Night from juror Virginia has always been at the forefront of implementing new Mark Leithauser, senior curator transportation solutions, and we are committed providing of theto National Gallery of Art for eggautomatedtempera painting, “The an environment in which industry leaders frommythe New VanGogh”; “Old and New” vehicle realm can work to answer the needs of drivers. 2010, Watercolor; “Still Life with

Patient Confidential? Physician Reporting, Privacy Law and the DMV In Virginia, anyone may report a driver suspected of being impaired to the DMV, but current DMV policy, supported by Virginia law, protects the identity of the reporting individual and the reasons given for reporting the driver if the source of the information is “a relative of the driver, or a physician, physician assistant, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, or other licensed medical professional … treating, or providing medications for the driver.”3 In Grayson’s case, it came to light that the person who reported him to the DMV was a medical professional—the physician he had seen for the pre-surgery evaluation. Grayson wondered why his personal medical information had been disclosed to the DMV without his assent and precisely what information in that report drove the decision to suspend his license. Given the strict medical privacy protection provided by the Healthcare Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), how was this possible? Well, it’s possible if someone is considered by a medical professional to be a ‘serious and imminent threat.’ In that case, normal HIPAA protections cease to apply. Physicians may report patients to the DMV and share what would normally be considered Protected Medical Information (PMI) with the DMV—then the DMV can immediately suspend a driver’s license. Just like that. Making the determination is a huge responsibility for physicians; if PMI is disclosed without clear, empirical evidence that the patient is a serious and immediate threat, that disclosure could be considered a violation of HIPAA privacy rules, and the reporting medical professional could face serious consequences, including loss of license. It would be difficult for Grayson’s doctor to claim that Grayson represented a “serious and imminent threat” since he was allowed

the test’s metrics, placed Grayson within the ‘demented range.’ Thus, the doctor elected not to give Grayson the second, important, clockdrawing portion of the test, which evaluates higher-level executive functions like those that operate when a person is driving. If there were adjacent concerns that could have impacted Grayson’s driving such as arthritis, or mobility issues, those could be addressed through occupational therapy or through initiatives like CarFit, a program designed to “fit” a vehicle to senior drivers for maximum comfort and safety. But let’s put Grayson’s examination in context. In a brief, prior visit to the same physician, Grayson found the doctor to be a fairly jovial >>

“

suspension of a patient’s driving privileges without any further testing or involvement from driver assessment professionals. There are no special credentials or training required of the medical professional, and they’re not required to disclose to their patient that they are administering a test or what it is for. Grayson and his family were determined to find a way to use this eye-opening experience to create positive change. Having already spent countless hours navigating the maze of problematic DMV policies and the Virginia Codes that enable them, they decided that the way forward was to press for modifications to current legislation. If enacted, those amendments would ensure that every driver (not just mature drivers) in Virginia would receive due process from the DMV. With the help of subject matter experts, we explored the significant medical, legal and legislative issues that surfaced during Grayson’s journey. We’ll discuss their implications, and finally, circle back around to highlight the common sense legislative fixes crafted by Del. Barry Knight.

—Aubrey Layne, Secretary of Transportation for the Commonwealth Pears”, 2008, Watercolor on

paper; “Umbrella & Boots” 2011

Watercolor on paper; “Let It Be” n June 2015, Governor Terry McAuliffe Acrylic on canvas. announced a new partnership with the Virginia Department of Transportation and Department of Motor Vehicles permitting research and development for autonomous vehicles to take place in the commonwealth via special automated corridors and test facilities. This alliance further enhances Virginia’s standing as a high-tech idea incubator and laboratory for emerging unmanned systems, smart highways and intelligent vehicle safety technologies. Ronald A. Villanueva, R-Virginia Beach, chairman of Autonomous and semi-autonomous the House Transportation Committee takes test ride innovations could be a game-changer for the nation’s growing number of older drivers. into the future of highway driving in a sleek Approximately 45 million people in the U.S. are A7 “driverless” prototype nicknamed Jack. age 65 or older, a figure that stands to grow by another 27 million by 2030. About 36 million current older drivers still hold valid licenses, and about 80 percent of them live in car-dependent suburbs or rural areas—not cities with public transit.4 Chairman of the House Transportation Committee, Ron Villanueva, recently had the opportunity to test drive several autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles. This is what he had to say: “Virginia is in full-throttle mode when in it comes to transportation innovation. We’ve made investments in many transportation sectors: construction and maintenance, the Port of Virginia, airports, rail and public transport. But there is an equal amount of attention focused on transportation safety and technology, which includes automatic vehicle systems. Collaborations with Virginia Tech’s Transportation Institute, VDOT, the auto industry and various transportation sectors have produced advancements in road construction materials, signage and markings. These advances make our roads safer for our citizens. For mature drivers and permitted disabled drivers, autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles will help make their driving more efficient and safe and provide welcome mobility and independence to citizens who might otherwise find their transportation options very limited. However, public policy and legislation surrounding these innovations is still being developed; we must ensure that when these new vehicles are on the road the safety of the public is paramount.”

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & HELPFUL LINKS: The Virginia Tech Transportation Institute: Smart Roads, Automated Corridors, and Much More VTTI.VT.edu

Virginia Unmanned Systems: The Road to Driverless Vehicles Leads to Virginia Virginia.gov/land/

Self-Driving Cars to Be Tested on Virginia’s Highways Richmond.com

Self-Driving Cars and the Disabled NYTimes.com Self-Driving Cars and Seniors Bloomberg.com AARP.org

4. David Dudley, AARP The Magazine, 2015 “The Driverless Car is (Almost) Here W W W. LY N C H B U R G L I V I N G . C O M

M ATURE DRIVERS

IT’S A BRAIN THING:

COGNITIVE SCREENING 101

s it dementia, mild cognitive impairment or something else? Is it safe for mom or dad to drive? Certain physical conditions can mimic symptoms of dementia or Alzheimer’s. Brief screening tools can raise a red flag, but firm diagnosis is made through additional assessment tools and through methodical and thorough patient evaluations that consider all possible causes of less than optimal cognitive performance: brain injury, stress, sleep disorders, depression and anxiety, hearing loss, visual problems, prescription drug side-effects, heart and circulatory problems, anemia and certain diseases. Since different evaluation methods are mentioned throughout this this article, we’re providing readers with basic descriptions of common screening tools.

“

guy, and so he didn’t take the request to remember the three words very seriously. He later related that he thought the doctor might have been setting him up for some sort of joke or punchline. In reality, Grayson had been tested without his knowledge, the doctor using only one portion of the Mini-Cog test, a basic screening tool designed to help medical professionals identify patients who might require a more complete evaluation to firmly diagnose the degree of cognitive impairment present. Usually, both parts of the Mini-Cog are administered together. Neither is considered a stand-alone diagnostic tool. Additionally, why were family members excluded from the decision-making process when such important judgements were being made on Grayson’s behalf? Diverse professional associations within the medical community urge physicians to view their patient’s lives as part of a larger ecosystem, taking into consideration the family dynamic and, whenever possible, inviting both the patient and appropriate family members into significant potentially life-altering conversations—including driving-related issues. The American Medical Association (AMA) recommends that if a physician suspects that a patient’s driving may be impaired, then a sensitive discussion with the patient and family may suggest further treatments such as occupational therapy and may encourage the patient and family to decide on a restricted driving schedule. Mature drivers and their families don’t have to do it alone—Virginia has many excellent resources to help seniors extend their safe driving careers, and they’re available through the Grand Driver Program, AARP, AAA and The Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services.

Being without a driver’s license for several months may not seem like a big deal to many people, but absent a clear diagnosis and supported by an unconfirmed suspicion of cognitive impairment, an immediate suspension can present considerable hardships, particularly for people who live in rural areas where no public transport exists. Suspension should be a last resort. Drivers of any age should not be presumed guilty until proven innocent. In a letter to Grayson’s son, the doctor stated that it was a requirement of his being licensed in the state of Virginia to provide Grayson’s report to regulatory agencies such as the DMV so that they could take appropriate action. Under current policy, if the initial report to the DMV originates from a medical professional, the DMV doesn’t have to give the driver the

OP MED

o help us understand the thorny issues surrounding mature drivers, confidentiality and consent, cognitive testing, driving safety and DMV reporting, we sought insight and perspective from a variety of subject matter experts: neurologists, driving program evaluators and geriatric specialists. Not all of the panelists chose to respond to every question.

OUR PANEL OF EXPERTS: David Cohen, M.D.

Hamid R. Okhravi, MD

Sentara Neurology Specialists Interim Chair of Neurology, Eastern Virginia Medical School

Professor of Geriatrics Eastern Virginia Medical School Director of the Memory Consultation Clinic at Eastern Virginia Medical School and Director of the Driving Simulator Evaluation Clinic

Sarah K. Lageman, Ph.D., ABPP-CN Virginia Commonwealth University Department of Neurology Parkinson’s & Movement Disorders Center at Neuroscience, Orthopaedic and Wellness Center Dr. Lageman focuses her research on developing neurocognitive and behavioral interventions to improve cognition, emotional functioning and quality of life in individuals with neurodegenerative disorders.

Scott W. Sautter, Ph.D., FACPN Board Certified Neuropsychologist Fellow, National Academy of Neuropsychology Hampton Roads Neuropsychology, Inc. Virginia Beach

benefit of the 15-day notice or opportunity to obtain an examination from a specialist prior to suspension. This means that in terms of due process, the DMV doesn’t treat every driver uniformly, one of Grayson’s concerns. Though Virginia is not a mandatory reporting state, the doctor ‘in good faith’ may have felt a personal duty to prevent harm. But he made no effort to have a preliminary, fact-finding discussion with Grayson about his driving capabilities, nor did he attempt to create an opportunity for meaningful collaboration with the patient and with supportive family members. Since drivers with some level of cognitive impairment may have perceptions of their driving ability that do not correspond with reality, family involvement can be key.5

When conducting an examination or assessment, do you feel it is necessary to give any type of test, cognitive or otherwise, without informing the patient of what the test is and what it is for? Some studies suggest that a family member be present. D.C. In our clinic, cognitive testing is not done exclusively to consider driving safety but to understand overall neurological health and consider a variety of safety issues such as management of finances, medications, etc. Therefore, I don’t mention driving specifically before doing any kind of cognitive testing. We discuss the implications of their performance afterward. S.L. In a neuropsychological evaluation, I typically explain the purpose and nature of the evaluation in general to the patient and family members if they are present, but I do not explicitly review the purpose of each test. No one likes to be tested, but if possible, I ask that a family member be present. I like to prepare the patient by putting them at ease, and I try to alleviate any stress or anxiety that might impact the results.

5. D avid Dudley, AARP The Magazine, 2015 “The Driverless Car is (Almost) Here” |

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M ATURE DRIVERS COMMON TYPES OF BRIEF, COGNITIVE SCREENING TESTS The Mini-Cog: a brief screening assessment tool used in various settings to help identify individuals who might benefit from further evaluation to determine if dementia is present. It consists of two parts: a three-word or -item recall test of short-term memory and a clockdrawing test to gauge, among other things, long-term memory and ability to sequence. A sort of ‘first pass’ screening tool, it is not a stand-alone assessment tool for dementia. MMSE: The Mini-Mental State Examination is frequently used by clinicians to help diagnose dementia or to help assess its progression and severity. It consists of a series of questions and tests, each of which scores points if answered correctly. If you love little quizzes, you’ll love the MMSE: “Can you count backward from 100 by sevens?” “What day is it?” “Please spell WORD backward.” The MMSE tests a number of different mental capabilities, and medical professionals should consider a person’s MMSE score in combination with other assessment tools. The MMSE is not suitable for making a firm diagnosis but can be used to indicate the presence of cognitive impairment. Trail-Making Tests: A & B Simple-to-administer tests that assess a wide variety of cognitive processes: including attention, visual scanning ability, sequencing and shifting, psychomotor function and speed, abstraction, flexibility, ability to execute and modify a plan of action and ability to maintain two trains of thought simultaneously. Part B also helps evaluate executive functions, which are higher level cognitive skills like planning, problem solving, working memory and ability to concentrate and stay on task.

A large segment of mature drivers eventually decrease their range, avoid night driving or cease driving on their own as they acknowledge diminishing abilities or creeping, non-correctable visual impairment. Grayson thought he’d have the opportunity to naturally and gradually decrease his driving range on his own, enlisting the help of his family to put in place alternative transportation plans that could be acted on in the future. But Grayson’s GP and the DMV made that decision for him. We posed some interesting and controversial questions to four regional medical experts pertaining to cognitive testing, anonymous reporting, family involvement, privacy law and physician responsibility. Since we consider their responses to be especially impactful, we placed them together in their own section titled ‘OP Med’ beginning below on page 56. Are You a Serious and Imminent Threat? Who Decides? As the population ages, healthcare professionals will more frequently be faced with the difficult task of determining whether

S.S. In my profession as a licensed clinical psychologist and board certified neuropsychologist it is not only inappropriate but unethical to conduct an assessment without informing the patient beforehand about the purpose, nature, consequences and the risk and benefits of the examination. When I conduct evaluations regarding cognitive capacity I will invite family members to attend the interview process and mental status examination, as it is important at the end to evaluate whether

a patient is safe to drive and whether to report mature drivers (and others) with suspect abilities to the DMV. Maintaining safe highways is important, but preserving the physicianpatient relationship, protecting a patient’s private medical information and fostering a collaborative approach that involves the patient’s family members when possible helps creates a supportive environment where touchy subjects like driving ability can be discussed. It’s complicated. Neither the DMV, The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), nor the Virginia Legislature have any guidelines or multi-pronged test to help medical professionals determine whether a person poses so severe a threat to themselves or public safety that they can in good conscience release protected medical information to the DMV, which then can decide to bypass the 15-day notice and reinstatement process outlined in Virginia Code. In fact, much of the thinking behind ‘dutyto-warn’ laws and the meaning of the terms ‘serious and imminent’ have their roots within the psychiatric, social work and mental health communities. Over time, meaning was derived

there is a discrepancy between the patient and the family’s perception of this individual’s capacity to meet daily demands in different functional realms. The APA ethics code, section 9.03 states that consent should include: a) an explanation of the nature and purpose of the assessment, b) fees, c) involvement of third parties, and d) limits of confidentiality. The patient/client should also be provided with sufficient opportunity to ask questions and receive answers.

6. AMA Physician’s Guide to Assessing and Counseling Older Drivers, and Driving and Dementia: A Guide for Health Care Professionals

from crisis situations: persons deemed to be suicidal or homicidal, and from the perpetrators of mass-shooting incidents—not drivers ‘suspected’ of being impaired. For example, in 2013 after the mass shootings in Newtown, Connecticut and Aurora, Colorado, the HHS Office of Civil Rights released to all healthcare providers a letter to make them aware that the HIPAA Privacy Rule does not prevent their ability to disclose patient information to law enforcement, family members of the patient or other persons when you believe the patient presents a serious danger to himself or other people. Any preventable car-related death is one too many, but can one really make a correlation between premeditated mass murder by a psychopath who displayed definite warning signs and the potential danger that a mature driver with a ‘yet-to-be-determined’ level of cognitive impairment poses to the general public? To help us navigate these issues, we reached out to Scott Alperin, a Virginia Beach-based attorney specializing in elder law, and also to a representative of HHS who would not be quoted in this article but who shared perspectives on the issues surrounding ‘serious and imminent’ as outlined in HHS publically accessible documents and via their website for professionals.6 Alperin explains: “In drafting the federal regulations that govern HIPAA, the Department of Health and Human Services did not specifically define what constitutes ‘a serious and imminent threat to the health or safety of a person or the public.’ However, in recognizing the difficulty that healthcare professionals often face in attempting to comply with the HIPAA regulations, the Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights (OCR) issued guidance in February 2014 to help explain when a healthcare provider may relay protected healthcare information to third parties. This publication does not have the force of law, but underscores the fact that a legal vacuum exists when defining a ‘serious and imminent threat’ and >>

The National Academy of Neuropsychology, in line with the revised APA Ethical Principles and Code of Conduct, strongly encourages neuropsychologists to provide informed consent to patients seeking services and views its conveyance as a basic professional and ethical responsibility.

to immediately suspend a senior’s driving license, or would you tend to recommend a full medical evaluation by a geriatric specialist, and/or, have the driver participate in a driving evaluation prior to recommending suspension?

Do you think the threeword recall portion of the mini-cog (sans clock drawing), as an evaluation, should be used as a reason

D.C. I am not aware of any strong association between poor word recall alone and driving crash risk. In our clinic, cognitive testing is done to understand overall neurological >>

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M ATURE DRIVERS

“

health and consider a variety of safety issues such as management of finances, medications, etc. Keep in mind that tests of visual fields, neck mobility and motor function/ coordination are other aspects of neurological health that need to be considered when assessing driving safety. The two cognitive tests most validated for crash risk include clock drawing and a test of executive function called the Trail Making Test. When the results of these tests raise a red flag, we then recommend a formal driving safety evaluation rather than reporting to the DMV. S.L. I would not recommend using the three-word recall portion of the mini-cog as a stand-alone evaluation. It was designed as a brief screener

LYNCHBURG LIVING

In my profession as a licensed clinical psychologist and board certified neuropsychologist it is not only inappropriate but unethical to conduct an assessment without informing the patient beforehand about the purpose, nature, consequences and the risk and benefits of the examination.

“

the need to provide direction in order to balance legal requirement or privacy against public safety concerns. In the absence of a court ruling that addresses a particular circumstance, healthcare professionals are left to try to apply the law to their particular set of facts. I don’t think the DMV is at risk legally for encouraging healthcare professionals to report ostensibly impaired drivers. The legal risk falls squarely on the shoulders of the party maintaining and wrongfully disclosing protected patient information. Obviously, these are very subjective determinations that depend upon the facts and circumstances of the particular case. If a court were to define ‘serious and imminent threat’ in the context of the regulation, it would be typical for the court to develop a multi-pronged legal test that would provide standards for future application. But the only way that a court will be prompted to develop a legal test is if there is an actual, justiciable controversy (i.e. an actual lawsuit) that gets before the court. Courts don’t issue advisory opinions. Regarding a legal remedy, the optimal fix would happen at the federal level through the promulgation of detailed regulations by HHS defining ‘serious and imminent threat’ that would be published in the Code of Federal Regulations. This is especially true in light of the fact that HIPAA is federal law and is being applied by the states. In the absence of guidance from HHS, the Virginia General Assembly could take action by adopting its own definition that would at least delineate the circumstances under which it would be legally appropriate for the healthcare provider to disclose protected health information to protect the motoring public.”

And fielding our questions about the release of medical information, legal opinion, preemption and HIPAA violations, the HHS contact helped clarify their stance: HHS (like the DMV) defers to the assessment of the healthcare provider that an individual poses a serious and imminent threat, and there is the presumption that the provider is exercising their judgement in good faith. HHS does not offer legal opinions, and they have no specific criteria for what constitutes a serious and imminent threat. Rather, they rely on the judgement of the healthcare provider. Laws themselves do not violate HIPPA. However, if there are questions surrounding whether a particular use or disclosure of protected information is in violation of HIPAA, individuals have the right to file a complaint, and then HHS can open an investigation ‘where appropriate.’

of basic cognitive functions. While a full medical evaluation by a geriatric specialist may be helpful in determining driving safety, the accuracy of that evaluation would depend upon the specialist’s training and knowledge of how clinical interview information or tests they administer correlate with driving safety. Having a patient complete a driving safety evaluation would generally be the best way to evaluate their driving safety. H.O. From my standpoint, a road examination is the gold standard of driving ability. The driving simulator at EVMS is one tool we use to help determine a patient’s executive function. Oddly enough, not all types of what we would call dementia actually impair driving. Also, the

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HIPAA does not prevent states from enacting laws or require that elected officials request a preemption exception determination for any particular law. This means that state law can allow a medical provider to generally comply with the stricter HIPAA law without violating more permissive state law. So basically, unless a complaint is filed questioning the report of a medical professional, and it is deemed worthy of follow-up, HHS would not intervene or offer an opinion in a particular case, nor would they question the report of a medical professional.

The DMV Position In the interest of fairness, we wanted to give the DMV the opportunity to weigh in on how they view the role they play in the driver reporting process. Brandy Brubaker, Communications Director for the Virginia DMV answered the following questions: Does the DMV or the Medical Advisory Board utilize any specific or general guidance to determine whether the reported driver is indeed a ‘serious and imminent’ threat before immediately suspending a driving license, or does the DMV feel that any medical professional is in the best position to make that determination?

DMV: DMV’s goal is to allow individuals

to drive for as long as they can safely operate a motor vehicle. The agency intervenes if we have reason to believe that the individual may be an unsafe driver. DMV accepts reports of potentially unsafe drivers from law enforcement, medical professionals, judges,

clock-drawing and trail-making test part B or a combination of all these assessment tools are better predictors than a short, three-word recall exam. But don’t expect every primary care physician to know all of these screening tools in an in-depth way; that’s not their area of specialization, and they don’t do this on a daily basis. S.S. The mini-cog with and without the clock drawing is insufficient to immediately suspend a senior’s driver’s license but rather ought to be considered a screening rather than a diagnostic tool. Screening instruments rule in problems, identifying the problem as a red flag or a concern, and diagnostic tests such as neuropsychological assessment rules out problems and provides a differential

diagnosis. A comprehensive neuropsychological assessment should be requested following the identification of a red flag or a concern. If there is an identification of concern for driving capacity based on the outcome of the neuropsychological assessment, a functional driving evaluation should be made, and the best approach to do this would be a driving simulator. This can be followed by behind-the-wheel driving examination should the individual pass the driving simulator. In this manner, a very thorough evidencedbased approach can be made to ensure due process in the evaluation of someone suspected of an incapacity to drive.

M ATURE DRIVERS DMV representatives, concerned citizens and friends and family. DMV investigates reports and may require a driver to provide a medical/ vision report from a healthcare provider, complete driver’s license knowledge and/ or road skills testing or to provide a medical report from a healthcare provider. If DMV’s investigation determines that the driver has a condition that affects driving ability, the agency may take one of several actions, based on the severity of the condition, such as restrict or suspend driving privileges or require periodic medical reports. While the Medical Advisory Board does not individually review every case, it does provide advice to the commissioner. The Medical Advisory Board consists of seven physicians appointed by the governor. Advice from the board is incorporated into agency policies which are used as guidance documents by the staff of Medical Review Services, all of whom are licensed practical nurses, and by the medical compliance officer who is a registered nurse. Cases are submitted to the Medical Advisory Board for review when the situation is not addressed by these policies or when a case has been referred for an informal conference during which the customer is able to present information as to why they contest the action/ requirements imposed by DMV. Given the fact that there are vast variations in the levels of training that GPs and other non-specialists have in terms of cognitive testing, wouldn’t it make sense to have the driver submit to a more extensive examination by a neurologist or geriatric specialist prior to suspension regardless of who made the original report?

Do you feel that sharing the outcome of a dementia screening tool directly to the DMV suggesting a driving license suspension without the patient’s knowledge to be a violation of a patient’s privacy rights? Why, or why not? S.L. Though I have some concerns about anonymous reporting of drivers to the DMV, I am hesitant to say we should eliminate the practice altogether. In my experience, there have been times where the family dynamic wasn’t optimal, and

DMV: Virginia is not a mandatory reportable

The rate of “National Crashes Per Miles Driven” has actually decreased for the three oldest age brackets (75-79; 80-84; 85 and up) for every reporting period since the first report in 1995 as reported in the Virginia DMV 2013 Mature Driver’s Study. DMV: We can request that a driver obtain a

medical report from a medical specialist, if we feel it will assist us in making a determination in their case. If a GP allows a client to drive home from an appointment, then later anonymously reports the driver to the DMV, is that client really an ‘imminent’ threat to public safety? If the driver were a real threat, wouldn’t it make more sense for the physician to dial 911, or call a cab?

communication between family members was poor. As much as I endeavor to take a comprehensive approach and bring appropriate family members into the discussion, on occasion, I can see where a medical practitioner might feel compelled to report a driver if their safety or the safety of others is clearly at stake. However, it’s important to note that a short assessment by a GP doesn’t really tell the entire story. S.S. It is inappropriate to use a dementia screening tool for the diagnostic purpose of identifying cognitive incapacity for the purpose of suspending an

individual’s driving license, but rather the intention is simply to identify there is a concern and have it more formally evaluated. I would suggest that the physician in that circumstance who believes that the individual is in fact incapacitated work with the family and the patient to have a more formal evaluation to include neuropsychological assessment prior to returning to driving to ensure safety, health and wellbeing of the individual, family members and others in the community.

state; per state law, it is at the physician’s discretion whether they initially report their patients. As Virginia’s Highway Safety Office, we would advise anyone who believes a driver is an imminent threat to public safety to arrange alternative transportation for the individual or contact their local police department. DMV isn’t required to question the action a physician takes when they have concerns about the ability of one of their patients to safely operate a motor vehicle. DMV reviews each impaired driver report submitted by a physician and takes appropriate action. Does the Medical Advisory Board review the case of every reported driver prior to issuing a notice of suspension or only after a driver wants to appeal the order?

DMV: DMV reviews cases of individuals who

may have health or medical conditions that impair or hinder their safe driving. The review process ensures the safety of the individuals and all drivers sharing the road. DMV’s goal is to allow individuals to drive for as long as they can safely operate a motor vehicle. A report of an impaired driver is reviewed in conjunction with our medical policies to determine whether to move forward with a medical review. The agency only intervenes if we have reason to believe that the individual may be an unsafe driver. DMV investigates reports and may require a driver to submit a medical and/or vision report from a healthcare provider, knowledge and/or skills testing, or to complete a driver evaluation conducted by a certified driver rehabilitation specialist. If DMV’s investigation determines that the driver has a condition that affects driving ability, the agency may take one of several actions, based on the severity of the condition, such as restrict or suspend driving privileges or require periodic medical reports. If no such condition is found, no further action will be requested. Cases are submitted to the Medical Advisory Board for review when the situation is not addressed by these policies or when a case has been referred for an informal conference during which the customer is able to present information as to why they contest the action/ requirement imposed by DMV. The 2013 Mature Driver Study: Is there Age-related Bias? The result of studies in the U.S. and U.K. show that healthy older drivers are no more unsafe than other age groups, though the potential for death or serious injury resulting from an accident is increased because older drivers often aren’t as resilient as their younger counterparts and less able to survive serious injury. But as increasing numbers of mature drivers traverse our roadways (an estimated >>

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M ATURE DRIVERS 57 million Baby Boomers will make up approximately a quarter of all licensed drivers by 2030), there has emerged a national discussion on how such a transformational event will impact public safety. In some states, the discussion has turned into a debate as stakeholders try to find a balance between individual freedoms and public safety. In January 2013, as directed by the chairmen of the House and Senate Transportation Committees, the Virginia DMV established a stakeholder group to study “whether the commonwealth should adopt additional objective criteria in current license renewal requirements as a means of assessing mature drivers’ continued capability to remain active, safe, independent and mobile on the road as they age, and to better prepare the commonwealth for an aging driving population.” A group of over 40 stakeholders participated in the study, and their recommendations addressed three areas: Driver Licensing, Medical Review, Outreach and Education. The resulting was the Mature Drivers Study, 2013 Report.7 One of the most significant results of the study was the passage of legislation amending §46.2-330 of the Code of Virginia. Effective January 1, 2015, the statutory age for mandatory inperson license renewal for mature drivers was lowered from age 80 to age 75, and licenses issued to persons age 75 or older will be valid for no more than five years, as opposed to the current eight-year license. This legislation makes sense. However, the study’s medical committee also discussed some rather slippery slope options that would certainly draw fire should they ever be seriously considered, such as providing confidentiality and immunity to all individuals who report a potentially impaired driver, not just medical professionals and relatives. Senior advocate organizations like AARP support safe driving initiatives as long as they are based on the health and ability of the driver, not age.

AARP was one of the stakeholder organizations involved in the Mature Drivers Study. David DeBiasi, AARP Virginia’s associate state advocacy director, reports that to date, AARP Virginia is not aware of any age-related bias as a result of the study and that they do not see any legislative changes on the horizon that might unfairly impact older drivers in the commonwealth. Good news, for now. Under current DMV policies, which are enabled by Virgina code, decisions about licensing can be made based on the opinions of a wide array of medical professionals, from general practitioners to pharmacists to nurse practitioners, most of whom have had little or no special training when it comes to assessing levels of cognitive impairment, let alone assessing driving skills or knowledge. Under current Virginia code, there is no “standard” testing set forth to be adopted by the medical professionals administering such testing. The code allows medical professionals to devise and conduct their own testing. Further, there is no requirement for the professional to inform their patients that they are being tested or to advise them on possible outcomes or consequences of their testing. New legislation is being considered this session which will address due process for all Virginia drivers as well as fair reporting and full disclosure from the medical community. Del. Barry Knight, sponsor of the HB1494 bill, had this to say: “Currently, members of the medical profession have the ability to be both judge and jury when a driver’s license is at stake. This legislation will ensure that mature drivers will have a process to prove they have the ability to safely remain on the road. Our seniors have given a lifetime to our community, and it is important for them to retain their independence for as long as possible.”

Do you know someone who has experienced a license suspension under circumstances similar to Grayson’s? Share your comments with other Lynchburg readers online: Lynchburg Living.com

The actual changes to Virginia code as submitted in Delegate Knight’s bill are found in the adjacent sidebar.

COMMON SENSE LEGISLATION 46.2-322 Examination of licensee believed incompetent; suspension or restriction of license; license application to include questions as to physical or mental conditions of applicant; false answers; examination of applicant; physician’s nurse practitioner’s or physician assistant’s statement. Proposed code changes highlighted. B. As part of its examination, the Department may require a physical examination by a licensed physician, licensed nurse practitioner, or licensed physician assistant and a report on the results thereof. In cases where the driver’s physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant submits the initial impaired driver report recommending that the person no longer drive, as part of its examination, the Department shall require the person to pass the knowledge and road skills tests or refer the driver for a complete driver evaluation conducted by a driver rehabilitation specialist prior to suspending such person’s driver’s license. 54.1-2966.1. Physicians reporting disabilities of drivers. A. Any physician who reports to the Department of Motor Vehicles the existence, or probable existence, of a mental or physical disability or infirmity of any person licensed to operate a motor vehicle which the physician believes affects such person’s ability to operate a motor vehicle safely or poses a serious and imminent threat to the health or safety of such person or the public shall not be deemed to have violated the physician-patient privilege unless he has acted in bad faith or with malicious intent. B. Any physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant who has reason to believe that the results of an examination could lead to a revocation of the patient’s driving privileges shall notify such patient prior to such examination that his driving privileges may be revoked pending the results of the examination.

Del. Barry Knight, 81st District Sponsor of the HB1494 bill.

7. www.hhs.gov/hipaa/for-professionals/faq/ |

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THE SUMMIT The Summit, which opened in 2003, is home to approximately 275 seniors at various levels of care: independent living, assisted living, long-term care and rehabilitation. The 143-acre campus is complete with an 8.5-acre lake, walking trails, benches, a gazebo, dock and, best of all, top-notch dining options. At The Summit, residents are served a restaurant-style dinner Monday through Saturday, complete with a seasonal menu and daily specials. “Residents come in, and they order off a menu,” said Brenda Dixon, marketing director. They try to offer a variety of options that will satisfy all of their residents. “Our Sunday Brunch Buffet is extremely popular, and many residents host family and friends for brunch on Sundays,” said Mary Margaret Little, director of dining services for dining service management company Meriwether Godsey at The Summit. Their current menu features grilled salmon with apple chutney and a harvest salad made from locally-grown hydroponic greens, roasted butternut squash, diced local apples, quinoa, toasted walnuts and apple cider vinaigrette. Grilled chicken can be added to the salad upon request.

“One of Meriwether Godsey’s Core Values is ‘Embrace Fresh, Local, Scratch.’ This includes incorporating current trends in food as well as presentation and style and trying to make sure our choices are seasonal,” Little said. “We believe that good food should also be fun!” They have partnered with Homestead Creamery to offer fresh, local milk and ice cream on a daily basis to their residents, both in the dining room or delivered directly to their door. “Recently, Homestead representatives brought two of their calves, Butter and Pecan, to visit The Summit, along with samples of their wonderful egg nog, custard, ice creams and milk,” Little said. “The calves were even decked out with Santa hats!” Typically, all the food can be made to order, and food allergies are accommodated.

FESTIVE VISITORS— Two calves from Homestead Creamery (left) made residents at The Summit laugh during a visit over the holidays.

“We work really hard to meet people’s dietary needs,” Dixon said. “Even in independent living there are a lot of allergies, so they’ll offer gluten free options…They really can do most any dishes to order, which I think is really nice.” >>

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FORMAL AND FRIENDLY—When enjoying a meal at The Williams Home, you feel like you are sitting down to a meal in a friend or family member’s dining room.

THE WILLIAMS HOME Nestled on six acres in a residential area off Langhorne Road, The Williams Home provides independent, residential and assisted living facilities for women. Their core values are courtesy, dignity and respect, while giving residents comfort, security and enjoyable daily activities. The dining staff at The Williams Home strives to provide delicious, healthy meals daily that will satisfy everyone. “We offer a food meeting to our residents to voice their opinion on their likes and dislikes on the menus,” said Denise Dombroski, director. “We incorporate their ideas.” This leads to diversity on the menus; they change every week. Dombroski says the ladies’ favorite dishes include meat loaf, oysters, prime rib and mashed potatoes. They also enjoy the salad bar.

Focusing on the health of residents, each quarter a dietitian visits The Williams Home and reviews their menu options. They also strive to always include healthy alternatives on their menu. “We cater to our residents’ special diets and special food requests,” Dombroski said. Dining rooms are designed to have an elegant, sophisticated feel, and private dining rooms are available for special occasions. >> 66

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WESTMINSTER CANTERBURY Westminster Canterbury is a life plan community that serves over 400 residents at various levels of care. The dining service staff strives to provide popular, trendy meals that satisfy everyone. For

really nice.” The dining room has a buffet, but servers are also available to assist residents if they choose. The menus at Westminster Canterbury change every five weeks and every season.

independent living residents, there are three dining options offered.

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or mac ’n’ cheese,” DeWinter said. Their winter menu this year

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entrées to choose from, and a variety of sides. The café also hosts

each week, and they fillet it by hand.

a deli station where sandwiches can be made to order, a soup and salad station, and a grill with hamburgers, grilled cheese, hot dogs

During the spring or summer, they often serve lighter options such as a blueberry salad or a strawberry pecan salad.

and other typical grill items. And let’s not forget a dessert station

“We’re very sensitive to bringing in as many fresh fruits and

complete with fresh fruit and a variety of ice cream. Finally, the

vegetables from the local area as much as possible,” Callahan said.

beverage station provides fountain drinks and specialty coffees.

The majority of the food served is fresh and made from scratch.

“The café also serves our employees…not only residents,”

“All of our soups are made fresh every morning,” DeWinter

said Debbie Callahan, vice president. Visitors also enjoy dining

said. Nearly 98 percent of the baked goods are also made on-site.

at the café. “Families who come to visit, or just people from the greater Lynchburg community who may be visiting someone who lives here at Westminster Canterbury (as long as they are a guest of resident), can come and enjoy any of our dining options,” Callahan said. The third option for residents is the James River Grille. “To me it kind of reminds me of a men’s grille in a country club

“We’re so interested in healthy, fresh and local, we even have a farm that comes every Thursday and sets up a little farmer’s market in our lobby for the residents to buy produce,” DeWinter said.

or golf club,” said Michael DeWinter, dining services operations manager. “It’s a more intimate atmosphere.” Not only do they offer different lunch and dinner menus but they also change the menus seasonally and offer breakfast on weekends. “For our assisted living residents we have another dining room,” DeWinter said. “It’s a smaller, more intimate dining area, but it’s

NO DETAIL OVERLOOKED— When guests arrive to their dining tables at Westminster Canterbury, the display is similar to what you would see at a nice restaurant (left).

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Chad A. Mooney Commercial & Civil Litigation, Commercial & CivilAccident Litigation,& Insurance Defense, InsuranceInjury, Defense, Accident & Personal Creditors’ Rights Personal Injury, Creditors’ Rights & Collections and Property & Condominium Owners Associations & Collections and Property & Condominium Owners Associations

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Petty, Livingston, Dawson & Richards Petty, Livingston, Richards (PLDR) would like toDawson express its& thanks to the (PLDR) would like to express its thanks to the members of our legal community for choosing members of our legal community for choosing all of our principals as “Top Lawyers” for all of At ourPLDR, principals as pride “Top inLawyers” for 2016. we take the relation2016. At PLDR, we take pride in the relationships we develop with our clients and seek to ships develop our clients and seekand to deliverweour legalwith services in efficient deliver our legal services in efficient and effective ways. We also take our passion and effective ways. We also our passion dedication beyond ourtake business, into and our dedication beyond our business, into and our community. This community is our home community. This community is our home and we strive to inspire positive change through we strive to and inspire positivetochange through involvement dedication its residents. involvement and dedication to its residents.

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Allied Arts Building, 725 Church Street Allied Arts Building, 725 Church Street #1200, Lynchburg, VA 24504 #1200, Lynchburg, VA 24504

434-846-2768 434-846-2768 www.pldrlaw.com www.pldrlaw.com

TOP L AW YERS

ypically, when you need a lawyer, it’s not for something good. From divorce to bankruptcy, lawyers help individuals and businesses through some of their most difficult times. If the time comes for you—who do you call? Top Lawyers of Greater Lynchburg is a comprehensive list that is a service to readers, giving them a lawyer’s perspective regarding the top lawyers in over 30 specialty areas. Using an online ballot, DataJoe Research surveyed 140 lawyers directly; each lawyer could vote for up to

three lawyers in each category. Then, DataJoe reviewed and processed all ballots, checking for signs indicative of cheating. A total of 337 lawyers were nominated. Lawyers with the most votes in each category made the list. On the following pages, learn more about the top three adoption/marital/family lawyers along with an in-depth look at the challenges in the adoption process. You will also find the complete Top Lawyers listings and informative profiles about lawyers in the region. >>

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Feature

The Top 3 Challenges

Adoptive Families Face We sat down with one of the best adoption attorneys in the region to discover what you should know before starting the adoption process BY JENNIFER REDMOND

doption often carries positive connotations, and rightly so: a child’s life is changed forever

when a family brings them home. So, encouraging more families to adopt seems to be a non-question in light of the great need; UNICEF reports approximately 13 million orphans worldwide, and in the United States, more than 450,000 children are currently in the foster care system according to the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services. But, is deciding to adopt that clearcut? Many are saying, “Not really.” Even the mainstream media is drawing attention to the complexities of adoption with TV dramas such as NBC’s “This Is Us,” which focuses a primary storyline on Randall, a 36 year old still grappling with the realities of his own adoption as a newborn. The story reveals the very painful and realistic questions adopted children typically face—and the self-doubt and difficulties adoptive parents confront as well. It’s these very nuances that Brooke Dalrymple Patel, Esq., says families must be aware of prior to beginning the adoption process. A family attorney, Patel and some local families share their advice for anticipating the most challenging aspects of adoption. >>

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SANZONE & BAKER, LLP

When It’s Your Life, Don’t Take Chances

Sanzone & Baker, LLP, is a law firm that handles legal cases throughout Virginia, from the District Courts to the Virginia Supreme Court and in Federal Court. We are an old established firm with thousands of satisfied former clients, trying hundreds of cases all over the state each month. Personal Injury • Criminal Law • Family Law Representation Civil Trial Litigation • Representation for Injured Workers

434.846.4691 • 1106 Commerce Street Suite 3A, Lynchburg, VA 24504 • sanzoneandbakerlaw.com

TOP L AW YERS

MARK B. ARTHUR

The recovery of both your health, and the compensation you deserve.

What To Do After A DUI Arrest

Fighting DUI Charges Protecting Your Driver’s License Smith Mountain Lake BUI/BWI College Student Crimes Other Criminal Charges Family Law

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LAWYER YOU CAN TRUST For skilled defense against DUI and other criminal charges, clients turn to a former prosecutor who knows how to get results. They turn to Mark B. Arthur.

434-846-7111 • markbarthur.com 815 Church St. 2B, Lynchburg, VA

Call 434-332-5155 www.OverbeyLaw.com

434 . 846.2731 • 2306 ATHERHOLT ROAD, LYNCHBURG, VA 24501 • C ASKIEFROST.COM

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Feature

“Adoption is never a [straightforward] happy ending. It has 1—EMOTIONAL PREPARATION

wonderful parts,

2—THE REALITY OF UNCERTAINTY

“Adoption is never a

but there is also

11 years, and all she can guarantee

[straightforward] happy ending,” Patel says. “It has wonderful parts, but there is also sadness and loss.”

sadness and loss.”

range of emotional challenges. With so many unknowns, families should be prepared for the questions and emotional burdens an adopted child typically carries. She recommends doing research by speaking with other adoptive families, carefully evaluating which type of adoption would be best (foster-to-adopt, domestic or international), and knowing that trauma training may be helpful depending on what a child has experienced prior to being adopted.

“Reach out to therapists, counselors, teachers,” Patel says. “Social services and churches offer training and classes. Go to support groups. This is a huge, huge undertaking. You cannot do it alone. You will need help.”

adoptive families is that nothing is certain when it comes to adoptions. While attorneys help families

Her advice to families considering adoption is to be prepared for the full

Patel has been practicing for

navigate the legal process, they cannot predict what will happen. “There are always bumps in the road even with the most ideal situations,” Patel says. Trying to obtain a birth certificate through the state, terminating parental rights, family appeals, court delays— each element involves numerous variables that can add up to months of uncertainty. “Some cases go for close to or over a year,” Patel says. Johanna and Matt Schubert are currently in year four of their petition to adopt a daughter from Ethiopia. In the interim, they’ve also begun a foster-to-adopt process with a local boy. >>

With international adoptions, acclimation and transition can be especially challenging for a child. And at some point, Patel says all adoptive parents must be “ready for some rejection of [their] love.” Having a realistic idea of what can happen should help manage expectations and potentially mitigate disappointment throughout the process.

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Feature 3—SHIFTING FAMILY DYNAMICS As a previous foster parent herself, Patel knows firsthand the unrelenting difficulty of introducing a new family member.

“It changes things,” she says. “It’s not what you pictured. The child may have delays or [other] problems, and so you have to adjust how you speak, discipline, etc. Your other children may struggle with that; they may feel displaced themselves.” These ongoing challenges play into the question of preparation, “Suffice it to say, as with all adoptions, whether international or domestic, there is a limit to what an individual can do to actually bring an adoption to completion and knowing that there are potential roadblocks that can come up, of which you’ll have no control over, is important to know going in,” Johanna says. The Schuberts’ experience with Ethiopia, while more extreme, does highlight the major challenges faced with international adoption, Patel says. Less secure governments can bring adoptions to a total halt. “The Ethiopian government decided to completely shut down all adoptions. . .until they could. . .revamp the entire system,” Johanna says, “in order to better avoid the cases of corruption that were [previously] allowed.” Fortunately, while many nations are tightening adoption regulations, Patel says the U.S. has made entry regulations easier. After immigration paperwork is done, the U.S. has eliminated the need for a separate court appearance once a child is brought stateside. In foster-to-adopt situations, Jennifer and Justin Harris note that though they “were given as much information as possible” through extensive training, they “never knew what each day or week held.” The Harrises were able to complete two foster-to-adopt processes in 2011 and 2013, but each came with many days of uncertainty and unique developments. At one point, Jennifer recalls that they “knew how one case was going to be ruled at a preliminary court hearing” since “the social worker, CASA worker, guardian ad litem—[all] agreed that the best place for the child was with” them. But, in a devastating and unexpected setback, the judge ruled to send the child back with the biological parents. Over time, the child was placed with the Harrises once again, but their story reveals the all too common realities of unpredictable developments. 76

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but they also emphasize the importance of balance and flexibility in terms of your own expectations. Adoptive families also need to be ready for the possible reactions of extended family members. “It takes time; they may treat [adoptees] differently or see them as ‘less than’,” Patel says. Jennifer’s advice is to remember that “children who come into care need so much love.” Along with her husband, their belief was that “they were truly a part of our family and were so loved.” Maintaining this mindset is crucial to moving forward and establishing a new “normal” once completing an adoption. While Patel says her family’s decision to provide foster care is the “hardest thing they have ever done,” she also believes in the priceless value of it. She recommends “focusing on the joy in the midst” of the struggle and sacrifice, always keeping in mind that it will change a child’s life for the better.

Criminal Law • Personal Injury • General Litigation • Estate Planning

B. Leigh Drewry, Jr. B. Leigh Drewry, Jr. has provided legal representation to Lynchburg and surrounding counties for 33 years. From general practice, criminal and traffic law, estate planning, and personal injury I have you covered. Approaching each case with my full attention and dedication, I aim to protect your interests and exceed your expectations. Sensitivity towards our clients • Commitment and dedication Flexibility to work around your needs • Open communication • Attention to detail

434.239.0044 • 104B Archway Court Lynchburg VA • leighdrewry.com

TOP L AW YERS

D A V I D B. B I C E David B. Bice

is an established family law attorney in his hometown of Lynchburg, Virginia. After majoring in economics at the University of Virginia, Mr. Bice studied law at the Cumberland School of Law in Birmingham, Alabama. Mr. Bice is fully trained as a mediator and in the Collaborative Practice Model.

725 Church Street, 9th Floor Lynchburg, VA 24504 Phone: 434.528.1500

Mr. Bice has over three decades of experience and focuses his practice on divorce, child custody, visitation, and support, among other family law matters.

Thomas L. Phillips, Jr., Jennifer E. Stille, Frank West Morrison, Gentry R.P. Ferrell, Eric S. Johnson

Personal Injury, Family Law, Litigation, Business, Wills, Estates, Commercial Real Estate

Over 150 years of combined experience www.pmjf.com Members of the firm recognized individually by:

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Feature Profiles of the Top Family Lawyers BY JENNIFER REDMOND

Frank West Morrison,

PARTNER WITH PHILLIPS, MORRISON, JOHNSON & FERRELL

“I believe that attorneys should be in a ‘helping profession,’ and family law is an area where you can help clients in difficult situations.” Frank West Morrison’s life is a testament to his tenacity and experience in the realm of family law. A partner concentrating in family law with Phillips, Morrison, Johnson & Ferrell since 1991, he is also an adjunct professor at Washington & Lee University School of Law—his alma mater—where he has taught basic and advanced negotiation classes since 2004. Morrison also regularly “attends and lectures at Virginia Continuing Legal Education seminars.” His decades of experience inform both his work as a lecturer and his work for more than 20 years “on a coalition of the Virginia State Bar and the Virginia Bar Association on family law, which advises the legislature concerning possible changes in the family law area.” He has also been the recipient of several awards, among them the Life Time Achievement award presented by the Virginia State Bar Family Law Section. But more than his accomplishments within the legal community and his rise as an educator and legal advisor, Morrison says, “I am most proud of the fact that I am able to settle approximately 85 percent of my clients’ cases often in a creative manner that best meets their goals.” He knows that family law demands a level of attention and care to the “emotional aspects” of clients’ lives; Morrison says “this requires a lawyer to be a counselor at law first, helping a client deal with emotional as well as legal issues.” During his undergraduate years, Morrison studied sociology and psychology, which coalesce nicely to inform his work in family law where “you can help clients in difficult situations.” “I work together with my clients as a team in trying to attain their interests, goals and needs,” he says. His philosophy is that “attorneys are counselors at law first and litigators second and that court should be a last resort and not a first resort.” Morrison provides a caveat to this, noting that “in order to be a successful negotiating attorney, it is necessary for the negotiating attorney to also be very effective in trial, so that the other side realizes that the lawyer is negotiating because they believe in negotiation as opposed to being afraid of court should an agreement not be reached.”

Morrison’s efforts for his clients have not gone unnoticed as he has also been recognized in the Virginia Super Lawyer and Virginia Legal Elite publications in addition to being the recipient of the Founder ADR in Virginia Award. Along with his wife of 32 years, Morrison has multiple children, step-children, grandchildren, and stepgrandchildren who live in Lynchburg and throughout Virginia. A native of the region, he still appreciates “the wonderful individuals who live in the Lynchburg area, the ever growing and thriving downtown, [the] diverse religious community, and the wonderful arts and music opportunities” in the community. Morrison hopes to practice another five to 10 years, following his credo that “the cornerstone of any effective attorney/client relationship. . .[is] facilitating an appropriate connection with clients in order to work together as a team.”

Sarah Bell, FAMILY ATTORNEY WITH WOODS ROGERS EDMUNDS & WILLIAMS

“I believe that individuals are entitled to quality representation, and they need someone who cares about them and will fight when necessary.” Sarah Bell, a native of Virginia who moved to Lynchburg in 2006, has spent the majority of her legal career specializing in family law. After graduating from Washington and Lee University School of Law, she joined a small firm where she primarily worked on family law cases. >>

W W W. LY N C H B U R G L I V I N G . C O M

Feature Profiles of the Top Family Lawyers Sarah Bell continued... “When I went solo [in 2012], that was what I knew how to do well and continued to do it,” says Bell. “When I joined a larger firm, [family law] became my niche.”

to serve as a guardian ad litem for both children and adults.” She notes that “quality representation” is something all individuals are entitled to have and that her duties require

She believes “that individuals are entitled to quality

evaluating the best approach for each unique situation. While some

representation, and they need someone who cares about them, and

cases are best fought in court, others are best settled out of court.

will fight when necessary but will also try to negotiate a settlement

Evaluating and working for the “client’s best interest” is Bell’s goal.

when it is in the client’s best interest.”

“Family law is unique because you are dealing with people’s

Bell is most proud of cases that are “hard fought,” and she can tell that “the client feels a difference as a result.”

emotions and family members,” she says. “Often times, people need you unexpectedly. You also get to work with individuals and

A mother of two herself, Bell knows that family law is unique for the emotional aspects that come with the territory.

see how your work affects them directly.” Bell and her husband Geoff, along with their seven year old and

“It is imperative to understand in family law that these issues are

three year old, enjoy their life in Lynchburg where they have “a

personal to the client, and they feel them deeply,” she says. “People

great community.” She considers the variety of strong educational

need someone to protect and advocate for them, and for me, I am a

options, abundance of outdoor areas, and access to the arts to be

step removed and can help guide the client through the process.”

their favorite aspects of Lynchburg life. Having grown up in the

Having moved from her solo practice to join Edmunds &

foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Sperryville, Va., Bell

Williams in January 2016, Bell is now with Woods Rogers

appreciates having mountain views once again.

following the merger of both firms this past October.

As she looks ahead to the continuation of her career, she says,

“I focus primarily on custody, visitation and divorce,” Bell says. “I also do some estate planning and guardianship work. I continue

“My goal is to continue to work hard for my clients and to be the best advocate possible for each of them.”

Brian R. Moore, PRINCIPAL ATTORNEY WITH THE MOORE LAW FIRM PLLC

“My philosophy centers around educating clients, so that they are informed. . .I try to help clients move forward. . .while protecting and promoting their financial needs and rights in marital property.” After practicing law for more than 11 years, Brian R. Moore believes “family law is not only the most unique area of practice but also the most complex. That is what has kept me so interested in divorce and family law practice.” In explaining that complexity, he says, “It combines contract law, public policy, litigation, psychology, philosophy, and everything else but the kitchen sink.” Moore has a varied background himself. After graduating with a B.S. in Biology, he attended the University of Richmond, T.C. Williams School of Law due to his “long standing interest in philosophy.” His early years of practice involved working as a trial and appellate attorney in the Lynchburg Public Defender’s Office. While there, Moore says the “highlight was having a published opinion by the Court of Appeals in Cunningham v. Commonwealth.” 80

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TOP L AW YERS

Switching gears quite a bit, Moore then worked for “a nationally

He is most proud of the number of cases he has successfully

recognized banking and mortgage finance law firm” as an attorney

brought or defended in the Court of Appeals where he has won more

for SunTrust Mortgage in Richmond. When asked to relocate to the

cases than he lost. Moore has also been certified in the past as a

firm’s headquarters in Dallas, Moore and his wife decided it was

family law mediator by the Virginia Supreme and as a Collaborative

time to return to Lynchburg. It was at this point, about eight years

Law Practitioner.

ago, that his attention turned to divorce and family law.

In light of the challenges he sees every day, Moore says he

“Now I cannot ever imagine myself doing anything else,”

appreciates the life he has built with his wife and two children, ages

Moore says of family law. “It has completely enthralled me with its

five and two, even more. “My wife and I fell in love with Lynchburg

complexity and the nuances of really trying to do it well.”

when we first lived here,” he says. “It is a beautiful place.”

Moore opened The Moore Law Firm PLLC in January 2015. To best

And they all appreciate what Moore notes as the “genuinely good

serve his clients, he focuses on “understanding trends in Circuit Court

people” and engaged community. He is currently serving with the

decision-making as that is where divorce and family law practice

Virginia Legal Aid Society, Lynchburg Rotary International, and is

is really evolving.” He also leverages technology— a paperless

Board President-Elect for St. John’s Episcopal Church Day School.

law office with cloud-based practice management and online client portals—to keep his clients informed every step of the way.

Looking ahead, Moore wants to continue focusing on divorce and family law while “developing the Moore Law Firm into the best

“Empathy, creative problem solving and adaptability to fluid

divorce and family law practice possible.”

situations are key to successful representation,” Moore says.

Do You have

Peace of Mind? Are your assets protected if you need Long Term Care? Have you effectively planned for yourself and your loved ones? Do you have a child or loved one with Special Needs? Are all your affairs in order? Let us help ease your mind. Call us today for a free consultation!

Elder Law * Medicaid Planning Veterans Benefits * Special Needs Trusts Asset Protection * Long Term Care Medical Powers of Attorney * Wills & Trusts

434.528.0696 | 801 Main Street, Lynchburg VA | ronfeinmanlaw.com

W W W. LY N C H B U R G L I V I N G . C O M

ADOPTION, MARITAL AND FAMILY LAW Bell, Sarah W. Lynchburg 434-846-9000 www.woodsrogers.com Bice, David B. David B. Bice, P.C. 725 Church St. 9th floor Lynchburg, Va. 24504 Office: 434-528-1500 www.davidbicelaw.com David, a graduate of the University of Virginia and Cumberland School of Law, practices civil litigation, primarily divorce, custody, adoption and other family related matters. Gibbons, Patricia McAdams Patricia McAdams Gibbons 2050 Langhorne Road Lynchburg, VA 24504 434-847-8149 www.patriciamcadamsgibbons.com Patricia is a graduate of Beloit College, Trinity College - Dublin, and Georgetown University Law Center. She specializes in divorce, child custody, adoption and other familyrelated matters. Moore, Brian R. Lynchburg 434-299-0130 www.brmoorelaw.com

O'keeffe, John Lynchburg 434-845-6555 Price, Joy Lee Caskie & Frost 2306 Atherholt Road Lynchburg, VA 24501 434-846-2731 www.caskiefrost.com Joy Lee, a graduate of the University of Tennessee and William & Mary Law School, practices civil litigation, especially divorce, child custody, and other family related matters.

APPELLATE LAW Hawkins, David Overbey, Hawkins & Wright 776 Village Highway, P.O. Box 38, Rustburg, VA 24588 www.overbeylaw.com 434-332-5155 434-332-5143 David Hawkins has 45 years of experience covering many practice

LYNCHBURG LIVING

Orgera, Keith E. Lynchburg 434-947-2244 Trost, Randall J. Lynchburg 434-738-2300 www.trostlaw.com

ARBITRATION AND MEDIATION Morrison, Frank West Phillips, Morrison, Johnson & Ferrell 828 Main Street, Suite 1403 Lynchburg, VA 24504 434-384-0946; 434-907-4805 www.pmjf.com Divorce, Family Law, Mediation and Collaboration

White, Jeremy Lynchburg 434-846-1326 www.vlas.org

BANKING AND FINANCIAL Alford, John R., Jr. Caskie & Frost 2306 Atherholt Road Lynchburg, VA 24501 434-846-2731 www.caskiefrost.com John, a graduate of the University of Virginia and Washington & Lee University School of Law, focuses on commercial transactions, real estate, trusts and estates. Sorenson, Eric J., Jr. Lynchburg 434-846-9000 www.woodsrogers.com

BANKRUPTCY AND WORKOUT Cox, David Lynchburg 434-846-2768 www.coxlawgroup.com

Schenkel, Lisa L. Lynchburg 434-385-0174

Mooney, Chad A. Petty, Livingston, Dawson & Richards 434-846-2768 www.pldrlaw.com Commercial and Civil Litigation, Insurance Defense, Accident and Personal Injury, Creditors Rights and Collections, Criminal Defense, Property and Condominium Owners Associations

ATTORNEYS FOR NONPROFIT

Morrison, Frank West Phillips, Morrison, Johnson & Ferrell 828 Main Street, Suite 1403 Lynchburg, VA 24504 434-384-0946; 434-907-4805 www.pmjf.com Divorce, Family Law, Mediation and Collaboration

areas. He has litigated personal injury, real estate, criminal, and commercial cases from trial through appeal.

Feinman, Paul J. Petty, Livingston, Dawson & Richards 434-846-2768 www.pldrlaw.com Creditors Rights/Bankruptcy, Commercial Real Estate, Estate Planning and Administration

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

Hansen, Janice Lynchburg 434-401-1796 www.coxlawgroup.com Valois, Margaret Lynchburg 434-845-4529 www.jamesriverlegal.com Wright, David Lynchburg 434-845-2600 www.coxlawgroup.com

BUSINESS LAW Bold, Mark G. Relevant Law 102 Northwynd Cir. Suite A Lynchburg, VA 24503 434-200-9567 www.relevantlaw.com Relevant Law is an award-winning law firm that consists of experienced business attorneys who take an efficient and innovative approach to help solve the changing needs of your business. Craddock, Theodore J. Caskie & Frost 2306 Atherholt Road Lynchburg, VA 24501 434-846-2731 www.caskiefrost.com Ted, a graduate of Washington & Lee University and the University of Virginia School of Law, focuses on business law, public finance, trust & estates, real estate, and litigation. Keller, Herschel V. Lynchburg 434-455-9940 www.gentrylocke.com Richards, James R. Petty, Livingston, Dawson & Richards 434-846-2768 www.pldrlaw.com Taxation, Estate Planning, Business Law and Mergers and Acquisitions Whitesell, Darryl D. Lynchburg 434-846-9000 www.woodsrogers.com

CIVIL TRIAL

Osterbind, Brandon S. Overbey, Hawkins & Wright 776 Village Highway, P.O. Box 38, Rustburg, VA 24588 www.overbeylaw.com 434-332-5155 434-332-5143 Brandon S. Osterbind is a litigator for 8 years and focuses on trial and appellate work on personal injury, civil litigation, and workers’ compensation cases. Phillips, William E. Lynchburg 434-846-9000 www.woodsrogers.com Pulley, Glenn W. Lynchburg 434-455-9940 www.gentrylocke.com Sackett, Henry M., III Lynchburg 434-846-9000 www.woodsrogers.com Trost, Randall J. Lynchburg 434-738-2300 www.trostlaw.com Watson, J. Frederick Caskie & Frost 2306 Atherholt Road Lynchburg, VA 24501 434-846-2731 www.caskiefrost.com Fred, who graduated from the University of Virginia and the University of Richmond School of Law, represents clients in civil litigation and general business matters. Wright, Frank A., Jr. Overbey, Hawkins & Wright 776 Village Highway, P.O. Box 38, Rustburg, VA 24588 www.overbeylaw.com 434-332-5155 434-332-5143 Frank A. Wright, Jr. is a litigator and a transactional attorney for 19 years focusing on personal injury litigation and real estate and business transactions.

COMMERCIAL LITIGATION

Dawson, G. Edgar, III Petty, Livingston, Dawson & Richards 434-846-2768 www.pldrlaw.com Commercial and Tort Litigation, Criminal Law

Falcone, John E. Petty, Livingston, Dawson & Richards 434-846-2768 www.pldrlaw.com Employment, Business and Construction Litigation, Personal Injury, Media Law

Hawkins, David Overbey, Hawkins & Wright 776 Village Highway, P.O. Box 38, Rustburg, VA 24588 www.overbeylaw.com 434-332-5155 434-332-5143 David Hawkins has 45 years of experience covering many practice areas. He has litigated personal injury, real estate, criminal, and commercial cases from trial through appeal. Keller, Herschel V. Lynchburg 434-455-9940 www.gentrylocke.com Kowalski, Scott W. Petty, Livingston, Dawson & Richards 434-846-2768 www.pldrlaw.com Construction Law, Construction Litigation, Surety Law Mooney, Chad A. Petty, Livingston, Dawson & Richards 434-846-2768 www.pldrlaw.com Commercial and Civil Litigation, Insurance Defense, Accident and Personal Injury, Creditors Rights and Collections, Criminal Defense, Property and Condominium Owners Associations Peake, Mark Caskie & Frost 2306 Atherholt Road. Lynchburg, VA 24501 434-846-2731 www.caskiefrost.com Mark, a graduate of Virginia Tech and Washington & Lee University School of Law, focuses on insurance defense, civil litigation, products liability, personal injury and criminal defense. Phillips, William E. Lynchburg 434-846-9000 www.woodsrogers.com Pulley, Glenn W. Lynchburg 434-445-9940 www.gentrylocke.com

CONSTRUCTION Keller, Herschel V. Lynchburg 434-455-9940 www.gentrylocke.com Kowalski, Scott W. Petty, Livingston, Dawson & Richards 434-846-2768 www.pldrlaw.com Construction Law, Construction Litigation, Surety Law Lucy, J. Barrett Lynchburg 434-528-3400 www.freemandunn.com

Pearson, Andrew P. Petty, Livingston, Dawson & Richards 434-846-2768 www.pldrlaw.com Commercial and Civil Litigation, Construction Law

CRIMINAL DEFENSE Arthur, Mark B. Mark B. Arthur 815 Church St. 2B Lynchburg, VA 24504 434-846-7111 www.markbarthur.com Criminal Defense, DUI, and Family Law Drewry, B. Leigh, Jr. B. Leigh Drewry, Jr. 104B Archway Court Lynchburg, VA 24502 434-239-0044 www.leighdrewry.com From general practice, criminal and traffic law, estate planning, and personal injury I have you covered. Hawkins, David Overbey, Hawkins & Wright 776 Village Highway, P.O. Box 38, Rustburg, VA 24588 www.overbeylaw.com 434-332-5155 434-332-5143 David Hawkins has 45 years of experience covering many practice areas. He has litigated personal injury, real estate, criminal, and commercial cases from trial through appeal. Nelson, Margaret A. Lynchburg 434-528-1078 Orgera, Keith E. Lynchburg 434-947-2244 Peake, Mark Caskie & Frost 2306 Atherholt Road. Lynchburg, VA 24501 434-846-2731 www.caskiefrost.com Mark, a graduate of Virginia Tech and Washington & Lee University School of Law, focuses on insurance defense, civil litigation, products liability, personal injury and criminal defense. Quillian, William Lynchburg 434-845-6084 Sanzone, Joseph A. Sanzone & Baker, LLP 1106 Commerce Street, Ste 3A Lynchburg, VA 24504 434-846-4691 434-528-5264 Fax www.sanzoneandbakerlaw.com Criminal Defense, Personal Injury, Civil Litigation, Wrongful Death, Motor Vehicle Accidents, Family Law, Traffic Violations, Product Liability.

Smith, Gregory Madison Heights 434-528-1141 Trost, Randall J. Lynchburg 434-738-2300 www.trostlaw.com

EDUCATION Hawkins, David Overbey, Hawkins & Wright 776 Village Highway, P.O. Box 38, Rustburg, VA 24588 www.overbeylaw.com 434-332-5155 434-332-5143 David Hawkins has 45 years of experience covering many practice areas. He has litigated personal injury, real estate, criminal, and commercial cases from trial through appeal. Hunter, James G., III Lynchburg 434-738-2300 www.trostlaw.com Waugh, Melissa K. Lynchburg 434-200-8287 Wright, Frank A., Jr. Overbey, Hawkins & Wright 776 Village Highway, P.O. Box 38, Rustburg, VA 24588 www.overbeylaw.com 434-332-5155 434-332-5143 Frank A. Wright, Jr. is a litigator and a transactional attorney for 19 years focusing on personal injury litigation and real estate and business transactions.

ELDER LAW Feinman, Ron Law Office of Ron Feinman 801 Main Street, Lynchburg, VA 24504 434-528-0696 www.ronfeinmanlaw.com Effective strategies to protect your assets and assisting with Medicaid & Veterans Benefits, Nursing Homes, Wills and Trusts, Guardianship & Conservatorship, Special Needs Trusts. Traditional Estate Planning. Isenhour, F.E. “Tripp” Caskie & Frost 2306 Atherholt Road Lynchburg, VA 24501 434-846-2731 www.caskiefrost.com Tripp, who graduated from Guilford College and Liberty University School of Law, represents clients in civil and criminal litigation and matters related to elder and domestic law.

Leebrick, Thomas S. Lynchburg 434-847-4546 www.thomasleebrick.com

ENVIRONMENTAL AND LAND USE Keller, Herschel V. Lynchburg 434-455-9940 www.gentrylocke.com

GENERAL PRACTICE Davies, Peter H. Lynchburg 434-528-5500 www.davies-davies.net Leebrick, Thomas S. Lynchburg 434-847-4546 www.thomasleebrick.com

GOVERNMENT AND ADMINSTRATION Richards, James R. Petty, Livingston, Dawson & Richards 434-846-2768 www.pldrlaw.com Taxation, Estate Planning, Business Law and Mergers and Acquisitions

HEALTH CARE LAW Trent, Holly B. Lynchburg 434-200-3000 www.centrahealth.com Vogel, Robert B. Overbey, Hawkins & Wright 776 Village Highway, P.O. Box 38, Rustburg, VA 24588 www.overbeylaw.com 434-332-5155 434-332-5143 Robert B. Vogel is a Lynchburg ophthalmologist and a lawyer who is uniquely qualified to handle legal questions involving health care law.

IMMIGRATION LAW Dirom, Pavlina B. Caskie & Frost 2306 Atherholt Road Lynchburg, VA 24501 434-846-2731 www.caskiefrost.com Pavlina, a graduate of the University of Economics, Prague, Czech Republic, and the University of Richmond School of Law, focuses on estates, trusts, immigration, and business law. >>

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TOP L AW YERS

Frank West Morrison

Thomas L. Phillips, Jr., Jennifer E. Stille, Frank West Morrison, Gentry R.P. Ferrell, Eric S. Johnson

Personal Injury, Family Law, Litigation, Business, Wills, Estates, Commercial Real Estate Over 150 years of combined experience 434-384-0946 | www.pmjf.com Members of the firm recognized individually by:

Overbey, Hawkins & Wright is a Lynchburg personal injury, general litigation and local government law firm dedicated to the service of our clients. We help people who have been injured through no fault of their own recover emotionally, physically and financially so that you can resume living a healthy and fulfilling life. We also help local governments, businesses and individuals in our community comply with the law and litigate legitimate disputes.

434-332-5155 OverbeyLaw.com

DATE: Saturday, January 28, 2017 | TIME: 12 Noon – 2pm. LOCATION: Oakwood Country Club, 3409 Rivermont Ave, Lynchburg, VA 24503

We invite you to Central Virginia Bridal Guide’s exclusive Bride of the Year Luncheon, where we will select the 2017/2018 “Bride of the Year”! Held at the beautiful Oakwood Country Club in Boonsboro, this will be a prominent event for all who attend. Come enjoy a photo booth, lunch provided by four unique caterers, delicious wedding cakes, floral designs, and tons of giveaways! Every Bride in attendance will be eligible to win incredible prizes, including the title of “Bride of the Year”. Best of all, the “Bride of the Year” will be featured in an upcoming issue of Central Virginia Bridal Guide and will win a gift package including a Honeymoon from Travel Lovers.

LL CVBG BRIDAL LUNCHEON 2017.indd 1

LYNCHBURG LIVING

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

Pre-registration is required as limited seating is available. Tickets are $15 per person. For tickets and more information, please visit: VaBridal.com/bride-of-the-year-luncheon

Oakwood Country Club

12/21/16 3:26 PM

INSURANCE Peake, Mark Caskie & Frost 2306 Atherholt Road. Lynchburg, VA 24501 434-846-2731 www.caskiefrost.com Mark, a graduate of Virginia Tech and Washington & Lee University School of Law, focuses on insurance defense, civil litigation, products liability, personal injury and criminal defense. Phillips, William E. Lynchburg 434-846-9000 www.woodsrogers.com

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS Creasy, Henry, IV Lynchburg 494-846-9000 www.woodsrogers.com

LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT Coates, Gary M. Lynchburg 434-528-3400 www.freemandunn.com Falcone, John E. Petty, Livingston, Dawson & Richards 434-846-2768 www.pldrlaw.com Employment, Business and Construction Litigation, Personal Injury, Media Law

PERSONAL INJURY Dawson, G. Edgar, III Petty, Livingston, Dawson & Richards 434-846-2768 www.pldrlaw.com Commercial and Tort Litigation, Criminal Law Johnson, Eric Phillips, Morrison, Johnson & Ferrell Bank of the James Building 722 Commerce Street, Lynchburg, VA 24504 434-455-7171 ejohnson@pmjf.com www.pmjf.com Personal Injury and Wrongful Death litigation throughout Virginia for over 24 years. Car, Truck, Motorcycle and Bicycle accidents; Premises liability, Insurance claims, Workplace injuries.

University School of Law, focuses on commercial transactions, real estate, trusts and estates. Davies, Jonathan E. Lynchburg 434-528-5500 www.davies-davies.net Jester, Royston Lynchburg 434-528-5858 Keller, Herschel V. Lynchburg 434-455-9940 www.gentrylocke.com Wright, Frank A., Jr. Overbey, Hawkins & Wright 776 Village Highway, P.O. Box 38, Rustburg, VA 24588 www.overbeylaw.com 434-332-5155 434-332-5143 Frank A. Wright, Jr. is a litigator and a transactional attorney for 19 years focusing on personal injury litigation and real estate and business transactions.

SECURITIES LAW Alford, John R., Jr. Caskie & Frost 2306 Atherholt Road Lynchburg, VA 24501 434-846-2731 www.caskiefrost.com John, a graduate of the University of Virginia and Washington & Lee University School of Law, focuses on commercial transactions, real estate, trusts and estates. Craddock, Theodore J. Caskie & Frost 2306 Atherholt Road Lynchburg, VA 24501 434-846-2731 www.caskiefrost.com Ted, a graduate of Washington & Lee University and the University of Virginia School of Law, focuses on business law, public finance, trust & estates, real estate, and litigation. Sorenson, Eric J., Jr. Lynchburg 434-846-9000 www.woodsrogers.com

TAX LAW

Trost, Randall J. Lynchburg 434-738-2300 www.trostlaw.com

Dunn, Terrance J. Lynchburg 434-528-3400 www.freemandunn.com

REAL ESTATE

TRAFFIC LAW

Alford, John R., Jr. Caskie & Frost 2306 Atherholt Road Lynchburg, VA 24501 434-846-2731 www.caskiefrost.com John, a graduate of the University of Virginia and Washington & Lee

Dawson, G. Edgar, III Petty, Livingston, Dawson & Richards 434-846-2768 www.pldrlaw.com Commercial and Tort Litigation, Criminal Law

WILLS, ESTATES, AND TRUSTS Baldwin, Bernard C., III Lynchburg 434-846-9000 www.woodsrogers.com Bold, Mark G. Relevant Law 102 Northwynd Cir. Suite A Lynchburg, VA 24503 434-200-9567 www.relevantlaw.com Relevant Law is an award-winning law firm that consists of an experienced team of estate planning and asset protection attorneys who are committed to protecting you and your family. Craddock, Theodore J. Caskie & Frost 2306 Atherholt Road Lynchburg, VA 24501 434-846-2731 www.caskiefrost.com Ted, a graduate of Washington & Lee University and the University of Virginia School of Law, focuses on business law, public finance, trust & estates, real estate, and litigation. Davies, Jonathan E. Lynchburg 434-528-5500 www.davies-davies.net Davies, Peter H. Lynchburg 434-528-5500 www.davies-davies.net Dunn, Terrance J. Lynchburg 434-528-3400 www.freemandunn.com Feinman, Ron Law Office of Ron Feinman 801 Main Street Lynchburg VA 24504 434-528-0696 www.ronfeinmanlaw.com Traditional and Sophisticated Legacy and Estate Planning to reduce or eliminate estate taxes, Asset Protection, Charitable Planning, Wealth Counsel, Elder law and Fiduciary Litigation, Special Needs Trusts. Richards, James R. Petty, Livingston, Dawson & Richards 434-846-2768 www.pldrlaw.com Taxation, Estate Planning, Business Law and Mergers and Acquisitions

Richards, John F. Petty, Livingston, Dawson & Richards 434-846-2768 www.pldrlaw.com Estate and Trust, Tax and Small Business Law Vance, Sam F. Overbey, Hawkins & Wright 776 Village Highway, P.O. Box 38, Rustburg, VA 24588 www.overbeylaw.com 434-332-5155 434-332-5143 Sam F. Vance, IV is a litigator and transactional attorney for 17 years focusing on estate and probate matters, criminal defense, and personal injury litigation.

WORKER'S COMPENSATION Baker, Philip B. Sanzone & Baker, LLP 1106 Commerce Street, Ste 3A Lynchburg , VA 24504 434-846-4691 434-528-5264 Fax www.sanzoneandbakerlaw.com Workers Compensation, Personal Injury, Divorce/Family Law/ Collaborative & Mediation, Criminal Defense, Motor Vehicle Accidents, General Civil Litigation, Traffic Violations Evans, Robert E. Lynchburg 434-846-4551 www.reevanslaw.com Osterbind, Brandon S. Overbey, Hawkins & Wright 776 Village Highway, P.O. Box 38, Rustburg, VA 24588 www.overbeylaw.com 434-332-5155 434-332-5143 Brandon S. Osterbind is a litigator for 8 years and focuses on trial and appellate work on personal injury, civil litigation, and workers’ compensation cases. Rosenberger, James G., Jr. Lynchburg 844-339-0306 www.agnewlegal.com

Final Note and Disclaimers from DataJoe We recognize that there are many good lawyers who are not shown in this representative list. This is only a sampling of the huge array of talented professionals within the region. Inclusion in the list is based on the opinions of responding lawyers in the region. We take time and energy to ensure fair voting, although we understand that the results of this survey nomination are not an objective metric. We certainly do not discount the fact that many, many good and effective lawyers may not appear on the list. DataJoe uses best practices and exercises great care in assembling content for this list. DataJoe does not warrant that the data contained within the list are complete or accurate. DataJoe does not assume, and hereby disclaims, any liability to any person for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions herein whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. All rights reserved. No commercial use of the information in this list may be made without written permission from DataJoe.

W W W. LY N C H B U R G L I V I N G . C O M

Lawyer Profiles

of Area Lawyers & Practices

LYNCHBURG LIVING

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

Phillips, Morrison, Johnson & Ferrell

David B.Bice, P.C.

Frank West Morrison

DaviD B. Bice

Bank of the James Building 828 Main Street, Suite 1403, Lynchburg, VA 24504 434-907-4805 • www.pmjf.com

725 Church Street, 9th Floor Lynchburg, VA 24504 Phone: 434-528-1500

Frank West Morrison is an attorney, mediator and a collaborative professional. He is a frequent lecturer, trainer and author on family law, mediation and collaboration topics and is an adjunct professor at Washington & Lee Law School, teaching basic and advanced negotiation classes since August of 2004. He is the former Chair of the Board of Governors of the Family Law Section of the Virginia State Bar and the former Chair of the Domestic Relations Counsel of the Virginia Bar Association. He is the recipient of the Founder ADR in Virginia Award, the Virginia State Bar Continuing Legal Education Award, and the Life Time achievement award presented by the Virginia State Bar Family Law Section. He has been recognized in the Virginia Super Lawyer & Virginia Legal Elite publications for many years. Mr. Morrison is an effective and successful trial attorney and is a skilled negotiator settling approximately 85% of his cases, often with creative solutions for his clients. 2016 AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, Highest possible rating in both Legal Ability and Ethical Standards reflecting the confidential opinions of members of the Bar and Judiciary.

Frank West Morrison

David B. Bice is an established family law attorney in his hometown of Lynchburg, Virginia. After majoring in economics at the University of Virginia, Mr. Bice studied law at the Cumberland School of Law in Birmingham, Alabama. Mr. Bice is fully trained as a mediator and in the Collaborative Practice Model. Mr. Bice has over three decades of experience and focuses his practice on divorce, child custody, visitation, and support, among other family law matters.

David B. Bice

CASKIE & FROST

FULL-SERVICE LAW FIRM Attorneys Leighton S. Houck Theodore J. Craddock Gregory P. Cochran Joy Lee Price Mark J. Peake John R. Alford, Jr. J. Frederick Watson Pavlina B. Dirom F.E. “Tripp” Isenhour, III Andrew T. Landrum

Caskie & Frost is a full-service law firm serving the people and businesses of Lynchburg and Central Virginia for more than 120 years. From its inception, Caskie & Frost has maintained a reputation for excellence, professional leadership, and superior client service. Our services include civil and criminal litigation, domestic relations, business law, personal injury, insurance defense, and more. We look forward to serving Lynchburg and Central Virginia for years to come.

2306 Atherholt Road., Lynchburg, VA 24501 (434) 846-2731 • caskiefrost.com

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SANZONE & BAKER, LLP

JOSEPH SANZONE & PHILIP BAKER 1106 Commerce Street, Ste 3A Lynchburg, VA 24504 434-846-4691 www.sanzoneandbakerlaw.com

JOSEPH A. SANZONE of Sanzone and Baker, LLP in Lynchburg practices in the areas of Criminal Defense, Personal Injury, Civil Litigation, Wrongful Deaths, Product Liability, Motor Vehicle Accidents and Family Law. Joseph Sanzone has been a trial lawyer for thirty-five years. After serving as a prosecutor, he formed his own firm handling litigation of all types and representing numerous businesses as general counsel. He practiced with Paul Whitehead for many years until Mr. Whitehead’s death in 1991 and has practiced with Philip Baker for twenty-five years. His numerous criminal cases across the state of Virginia for the past thirty-five years demonstrate his ability to help clients have their stories told, and allow justice to prevail in their cases. His cases have been featured on “48 Hours” and in numerous newspapers, magazines, and on television. His personal injury verdicts in automobile accidents have included verdicts of more than a million dollars. In 2013 Mr. Sanzone was one of the plaintiff ’s attorneys in a wrongful death case in Charlottesville, VA that was the largest wrongful death verdict in the history of the state of Virginia. He handles cases from the trial courts straight through to the appeals courts. He has appealed cases to the Virginia Court of Appeals, the Virginia Supreme Court and the United States Supreme Court, and has won cases in each of these courts. Mr. Sanzone has been selected to be one of Virginia’s Legal Elite by Virginia Business Magazine, Virginia’s Most Outstanding Lawyers by Richmond Magazine, America’s Premier Lawyers by Fortune Magazine, Super Lawyers, Top 100 Trial Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers and AVI by Martindale-Hubbell.

PHILIP B. BAKER, of Sanzone & Baker, L.L.P. in Lynchburg, practices in the areas of workers’ compensation, personal injury, criminal and traffic violations, collaborative law, mediation and family practice matters, general civil litigation, and employment matters. He is a regular presenter at professional education programs regarding Virginia workers’ compensation issues. Mr. Baker has been certified by the Judicial Council of Virginia as a Virginia Mediator, and he regularly participates in the mediation resolution of workers’ compensation and employment disputes and family law matters. Mr. Baker has also been certified as a Collaborative Law Practitioner Professional since 2005, and has been recognized as a Top 100 Trial Lawyer by the National Trial Lawyers. He is a member of the Lynchburg City Bar Association, the Bedford County Bar Association, the Virginia Bar Association, the American Bar Association, the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association, the International Association of Collaborative Law Professionals, and the Virginia Association of Collaborative Law Professionals. Mr. Baker received his B.A. from Hampden-Sydney College and his J.D. from the Wake Forest University School of Law.

434-846-4691 • www.sanzoneandbakerlaw.com 88

LYNCHBURG LIVING

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

Relevant Law

FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM Relevant Law is a full-service law firm based in Lynchburg, Virginia. Relevant was established with the idea of delivering a better way of providing legal services.

102 Northwynd Circle Lynchburg, VA 24502 434-200-9567 relevantlaw.com

As an award-winning law firm, Relevant Law uses a modern and more sophisticated business model that eliminates much of the costly overhead and over-staffing traditionally associated with law firms. Their innovative approach to law firm management and use of technologies allows their attorneys to be more efficient, cost effective, and client-focused. Relevant Law serves individuals and businesses.

RELEVANT LAW

LAW OFFICES OF RON FEINMAN

RON FEINMAN | ELDER LAW 801 Main Street, Lynchburg VA 434.528.0696 | ronfeinmanlaw.com Ron Feinman is a native of Lynchburg, Virginia. He received his law degree from the University of Virginia in 1979 and maintains an Elder Law practice serving all of Central Virginia. We help you take care of yourself and your loved ones, preserve and protect your assets, and structure your affairs in a manner best suited to your concerns and desires for your family. Our firm serves the needs of elder law clients, seriously injured individuals of all ages, as well as those requiring sophisticated estate, business, or legacy planning. Services include the custom design of Revocable Living Trusts, Wills, Medical Powers of Attorney, Durable Financial Powers of Attorney, Living Wills, and other fundamental estate planning documents, all as a part of a comprehensive and unified plan. We help our clients maintain or qualify for Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), various Veterans Benefits, including Pension Benefits (which are way more inclusive than you might think), Enhanced Pension, and Aid and Attendance. We have extensive experience helping those who are retired, those with special needs, and those who have been seriously injured, whom we can assist with: • The design and crafting of a Special Needs Trust or Medicaid Asset Protection Trust • The design and implementation of a Medicaid Spendown plan • The preservation and protection of assets for those needing governmental benefits such as SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and Medicare • Guardianships and Conservatorships We also help our clients with Life Insurance Trusts, Charitable Remainder Trusts and Charitable Lead Trusts, Generation Skipping and Dynasty Trusts, GRITs, GRATs, Intentionally Defective Grantor Trusts (IDGT’s) and other sophisticated estate planning programs.

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Attorney at Law

B. LEIGH DREWRY, JR. 104B Archway Court Lynchburg VA 24502 434.239.0044 www.leighdrewry.com

Leigh Drewry is a 1979 graduate of the University of Virginia where he served as a manager for the Football team for two years and as its head manager for two years. After graduation, he took a job as a reporter for a bi-weekly newspaper in Franklin, Va. He entered the T.C. Williams School of Law at the University of Richmond in August, 1980, completing his degree requirements in December, 1982. Leigh moved from Richmond to Culpeper to take a job as a legal aid attorney. In February, 1984, he moved to Lynchburg to work as an Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney. He served as a prosecutor in Campbell County for two years and in the City of Lynchburg for eight years. In February, 1994, Leigh opened his own practice. Leigh has concentrated his practice in criminal defense, but takes a wide variety of cases which take him into the courtroom. His caseload has included capital cases and the defense of civil commitments of individuals the state calls “sexually violent predators.” Leigh has argued several cases before the Virginia Supreme Court, including Townes v. Commonwealth, 269 Va. 234 (2005). He has made several presentations at CLEs on the civil commitment of “sexually violent predators.” Leigh has served on the Board of Directors of the Virginia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and as its president. He has also served as President of the Lynchburg Bar Association and currently serves as its Secretary/Treasurer. He is a past member of the Board of Directors of Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Central Virginia, Inc. and a past president. He has served in various positions in his local church and currently serves as a Trustee of the Virginia Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. A native of Southampton County, Leigh is happily married to the former Anne C. Goode of Richmond. Together they are the parents of Robert, a graduate of the University of Richmond and its law school, and Rebecca, a graduate of the College of Charleston.

434.239.0044 • www.leighdrewry.com 40

LynchburgBusinessMag.com

LYNCHBURG LIVING

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2016-17 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

Phillips, Morrison, Johnson & Ferrell

Patricia McAdams Gibbons, P.C.

Eric johnson

Patricia McadaMs Gibbons 2050 Langhorne Road Lynchburg, VA 24501 434-847-8149 • www.patriciamcadamsgibbons.com

722 Commerce Street, Lynchburg, VA 24504 434-455-7171 • www.pmjf.com

Patricia McAdams Gibbons has been practicing law in Virginia since 1981. She specializes in all areas of family law and adoption. She has been a very successful litigator, as well as a mediator and collaborator. She works with other attorneys to secure a fair result for all involved. Her clients and their individual needs have always commanded her full attention, as is apparent in her client ratings from Martindale-Hubbell. She performs an analysis of an individual’s particular needs on a case-by-case basis, which ensures meaningful and positive results for her clients. In addition, she has received the 2016 Distinguished peer rating from Martindale-Hubbell among her colleagues and local Judges. Mrs. Gibbons’ education includes a BA from Beloit College; M.A. Legal Science, Trinity College, Dublin; Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Moderatorship in Legal Science, Trinity College, Dublin; Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.), Trinity College, Dublin; and Master of Laws (LL.M.), Georgetown University Law Center.

Eric has been practicing in Virginia since 1992. He has dedicated 24 years of practice to litigating cases on behalf of accident victims. Eric has handled automobile, tractor trailer, premises liability and other personal injury cases across the state. He recently expanded his practice to include Social Security Disability law. Eric has also been recognized by The National Trial lawyers, Top 100 Trial lawyers. Eric is a Charlottesville native. He received his undergraduate degree from Randolph Macon College in Ashland, and his law degree from the University of Richmond. He is a member of the Lynchburg Bar Association, the Campbell County Bar Association, the Virginia Trial lawyers Association, and the National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives. Away from the office, Eric enjoys spending time with his three kids, Will 17, Mack 15 and Kakie 12; running, mountain biking, fishing, and grouse hunting with his German Shorthair pointer.

ERIC JOHNSON

Patricia McAdams Gibbons

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Mark B. Arthur was born and reared in Bedford County. After graduating from Jefferson Forest High School, he served in the United States Army’s 82nd Airborne Division for four years. He graduated from the University of Virginia with distinction in 1992. After a short time working in his father’s business, he attended the University of Virginia School of Law and received his law degree in 1998. Mark practiced law as a Prosecutor for the City of Lynchburg for four years. While there, he spearheaded Project Exile in the Lynchburg area. After leaving the Prosecutor’s office in 2002, he went into private practice with the law firm of Fralin, Feinman, Coates and Kinnier, P.C. specializing in criminal defense and family law. In 2006, Mark Arthur established the firm of Mark B. Arthur, PC, located in downtown Lynchburg where he now practices. Mark has concentrated his practice in criminal defense, DUI and traffic matters, but maintains his expertise in family law. Running his own firm allows Mark the opportunity to be attentive to each client and use his almost twenty years of experience to get the best outcome in every case he tries from district court to the Court of appeals.

Mark B. Arthur

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Thank You for Voting Us

lynchburg living’s #1 mortgage company !!

Call our office at 434.525.0200 today! “Don’t just get a mortgage, know your options. Let us guide you to the loan that is right for you! Your experience matters to us!”

J.G. Wentworth Home Lending, LLC. NMLS #2925 Office Phone: 434-525-0200 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org

Our Loan Officers Joe Jauch: NMLS # 315849 Cell: 434-258-3549

Kristin Smawley: NMLS #1211458 Cell: 434-258-7808

Michael Rocco: NMLS #1281719 Cell: 434-944-0430

BEST OF LYNCHBURG 2016-17

This year, we took our Lynchburg Living “Best Of” contest to a new level with an expanded list of categories. And you all, the readers, responded with force—a record 165,452 votes were counted on our website. Whether earning gold, silver, bronze or honorable mention, inclusion on the following pages should be considered an honor. Enjoy flipping through to see who came out on top this year! >>

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BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

GIVENS BOOKS– LITTLE DICKENS BEST BOOKSTORE Gold Award Winner

BEST BUSINESSES

Best Auto Service

Best Bed and Breakfast

Gold Harris Tire

Gold Acorn Hill Lodge

Best Accounting Firm

Silver Billy Craft Honda Bronze Laslie's Auto Body Honorable Mention Larry's Tire & Auto Repair Staton and Sons Auto Service

Silver The Bedford Columns Bronze The Babcock House Honorable Mention Riverview Manor Afton Mountain Bed and Breakfast

Best Banquet Facility

Best BookStore

Gold Tresca on 8th

Gold Givens Books - Little Dickens

Silver The Crown Sterling Bronze Charley's Restaurant & Catering Honorable Mention {RA} Bistro Shoemakers American Grille

Silver Barnes and Noble Bronze Lifeway Christian Store Honorable Mention Bookshop on the Avenue Liberty University Bookstore >>

Gold Davidson, Doyle & Hilton CPA Silver Shackleford & Werthman, CPA's Bronze Lovelace, Norvelle & Mathews, PC Honorable Mention Dolan Group, LLC Forest Accounting Services, Inc.

Best Apartment Living Gold Legacy at Linden Park Silver WillowBrook Bronze Cornerstone Honorable Mention Walden Pond Apartment Homes 37 West

Lynchburg Living

J A NU A RY / F E BRU A RY 2 0 1 7

EST. 1988

• Band Rentals and Accessories • Full Service Repair Shop • Sheet Music • Installation Design • Education Department • Recital/Event Hall • Guitars/Drums/Keyboard/Pro Audio/Orchestra/Band Instruments & Accessories

“LYNCHBURG MUSIC CENTER - EVERYTHING IN MUSIC”

6006 Fort Ave. Lynchburg, VA • (434) 237-0073 • www.lynchburgmusic.com

BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

Divine DesignS & Delights Best Clothing Store Best Gift & Specialty Gold Award Winner

Lynchburg Living

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BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

Accents

Flags, Gifts, Home & Garden

Enjoy the beauty of nature this winter and fall in love with life’s simple pleasures!

Flags, Mailbox Covers, Mats, Handcrafted Birdfeeders and Songbird Blend Seed Hearts, Gifts and so Much More! Made in the USA

We  Our Customers! Thank You for the Votes! 1716 Main St, Lynchburg | (434) 847-0576 | AccentsFlagsandGifts.com Open 7 Days a Week | Monday-Saturday 9-5:30; Sunday 11-5

To Our Customers,

MEXICAN CUISINE & CANTINA

Your loyalty and support as our clients are highly appreciated! Thank you for voting us “ Best Mexican Restaurant “ in Lynchburg. Giving you excellent MEXICAN CUISINE & CANTINA

service and quality foods is always our pleasure.

3025 Old Forest Rd., Lynchburg (434) 385-1600

Thank You, Lola’s Management & Staff

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BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

Cozy mountain morn’ It’s gonna be a great year.

LYNCHBURG Timberlake | Wards Road | Linkhorne APPOMATTOX Old Courthouse Road

www.joe-beans.com

BLACK

Interior Design • Fabrics • Gifts

WHITE

2704 LANGHORNE ROAD – LYNCHBURG, VA 24501 Monday - Saturday 10-5

GREY

(434) 845-2704

Lynchburg Living

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Attorneys at Law • Real Estate • Family Law Wills and Trusts • Business Law (434) 846-5470 www.fairchildyoderlaw.com 18264 Forest Road Forest, VA

BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

Best Car Dealership Gold Billy Craft Honda Silver Terry Volkswagon Subaru Bronze Pinkerton Chevrolet Honorable Mention Mabry Auto Group (Lynchburg Mazda & Lynchburg Nissan) Berglund Toyota

Best Car Wash Gold Express Jet Car Wash Silver Lynchburg Car Wash Bronze Waterworks Honorable Mention Madison Heights Car Care Timberlake Auto Spa

Best Caterer Gold Charley's Restaurant and Catering Silver Avenue Foods Bronze Magnolia Foods

Honorable Mention Love is in the Air Benjamin's Restaurant

Best Childcare Facility Gold Liberty Christian Academy ELC Silver Caterpillar Clubhouse Bronze The School Zone Honorable Mention Elizabeth's Early Learning Center Rebecca's Rainbow ELC

Best Children's Clothing Boutique

Bronze J. Crew Honorable Mention Penelope Gladiola Girls

Best Community Bank Gold Bank of the James Silver First National Bank Bronze Wells Fargo Honorable Mention Central Virginia Federal Credit Union Beacon Credit Union

Gold Once Upon a Child

Best Consignment/ Thrift Shop

Silver The Children's Place Bronze Sweet Peas Children's Consignment Honorable Mention Kidz Kraze Baby B's

Gold On Second Thought

Best Clothing Store Gold Divine Designs and Delights

Silver Goodwill Industries of the Valleys Bronze Next Time Consignment Honorable Mention Plato's Closet Once Upon a Child >>

Silver Winey Chicks

We Buy & Sell very gently used kids’ stuff! Get cash on the spot for all items accepted. No appointment is necessary.

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST OF!

Please Visit Our Sister Home Store In The Same Shopping Center Next To Great Clips. 18013 Forest Road Suite B-01, Forest, VA 24551 434-385-4387 | onceuponachild.com

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Thank You For Voting Me One Of Lynchburg’s Best Real Estate Agents

Jeremiah Cochenour | 434.401.0844 | baldguyrealty.com

Independent And Assisted Living Warm, Friendly And Home-like Our People Make The Difference! Hickory Smoked Meats Savory Barbeque • Area’s Best Burgers Dine-In Restaurant & On-Site Catering

Thank You for Voting us

4925 Boonsboro Rd, Lynchburg 434-386-5637 • pokejoesbbq.com

Treating you like family for 28 years!

for BEST BBQ!

1213 Long Meadows Dr, Lynchburg, VA 24502 (434) 237-3009 • valleyviewretirement.com

GOLD

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BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

Bank of the James Gold Award Winner

BEST COMMUNITY BANK Silver Award Winner

Best Mortgage Lending Company

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Best Day Spa

Honorable Mention Laura Bryan Photography Adam Mullins Photography

Gold London's Salt Spa Silver The Parlor Spa Bronze Studio Style and Spa Honorable Mention Massage Envy Spa 4109

Best Financial Planning Company Gold DePaul Wealth Management

Best Designer Eyewear and Sunglasses Gold St. Clair Eye Care Silver Harman Eye Center Bronze Piedmont Eye Center Honorable Mention McBride Blackburn Opticians A. G. Jefferson

Silver Jeffrey Wealth Management Bronze Ford Mays Wealth Management Honorable Mention Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Davenport and Company

Best Florist Gold bloom by Doyle's

Best Family Photographer Gold Sam Stroud Photography

Silver Annette's Floral Creations Bronze Arthur's Flower Cart Honorable Mention The Flower Basket Irvington Spring Farm

Best Funeral Service Company Gold Whitten Funeral Homes Silver Tharp Funeral Home Bronze Finch and Finch Honorable Mention Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory Diuguid Funeral Service

Best Gift and Specialty Gold Divine Designs and Delights Silver Farmbasket Bronze Accents Flags and Gifts Honorable Mention Lynchburg Community Market Winey Chicks >>

Silver Sherry Conrad Photography Bronze Lindsey Hinkley Photography

r cy ne n in g e W a d e ar n c Aw a d r ol u G ins

What does it mean– to be IN GOOD HANDS? It means, you get an expert agent who is in it for the long haul. We’ll get to know you and be there for you as your coverage needs change. I’m Lynchburg and surrounding counties Allstate Agent Robert Gammon. Let me give you a free, no-obligation Personalized Insurance Proposal. And see for yourself what it means to be IN good hands.

Call me, your local Allstate Agent Robert Gammon (434) 832-1110 Or stop IN anytime, 3311-B Waterlick Rd Lynchburg, VA. 24502. Let me put you IN good hands!

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oting Us ThESaT BnURkGEYR o• BuestfAotmrosV phere • Best Ba r

•B :B LE VEL ned Restaurant • Best Night Spot for Liv est Bartende e Music GOLD Best Locally Ow r id Friendly Restaurant • Bes K t s e B : L E V E t Wait St L af SILVER

WE PROUDLY SERVE 100% All-Natural, Freshly Ground y Hand-Formed

BLACK ANGUS BURGERS All-Natural Without Hormones, Antibiotics, Preservatives, or Steroids

ANGUS BURGERS STARTING u $4.89

42 CRAFT BEER TAPS

MONDAY-THURSDAY ANGUS BURGER SPECIAL u $3.95

OUR BEEF IS CERTIFIED HUMANE 14805 Forest Road, Suite 221 • Forest, VA 24551 • Carry-Out: (434) 525-2727 Mon-Wed: 11am-9:30pm • Thurs-Sat: 11am-11pm • Sun: 11am-9pm

BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

Thank You for Voting Us Gold Level “Best Bed & Breakfast” for 6 Years!

Lodging, dining, events and spa all in one great location!

Your Home Away From Home • www.acornhilllodge.net • info@acornhilllodge.com • 434.528.0983 • 2134 Old Forest Road, Lynchburg, VA

Bookshop on the Avenue Shopping is magic at Bookshop on the Avenue and that’s no fairy tale! Gift cards for any amount! There’s nothing like the smell of a book and you’ll hardly believe your eyes when you see our festive prices.

3407 Memorial Avenue, Lynchburg, Va 434-845-1336 • bookshopontheavenue.com

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BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

MAVEN SALON BEST SALON Gold Award Winner

Best Insurance Agency

Best Law Firm

Best Salon

Gold Allstate Robert Gammon

Gold Fairchild & Yoder PLLC

Gold Maven Salon

Silver Relevant Law Bronze Childress Law Firm, PC Honorable Mention Overbey Hawkins & Wright Caskie & Frost

Silver Sage Tryall Salon Bronze Anthony & Company Honorable Mention Studio Style & Spa Fusion Salon

Best Music Store

Best Sports & Custom Apparel

Silver State Farm Bronze Nationwide Nelles Insurance Solutions Honorable Mention Campbell Insurance Scott Insurance

Best Jewelry Store Gold Fink's Jewelers Silver Bowen Jewelry Company Bronze Penelope Honorable Mention Kay Jewelers Stones ‘n Bones

Gold Lynchburg Music Center Silver Speakertree Bronze Hill City Music Honorable Mention L. Oppleman My Guitar Shop

Gold Custom Embroidery and Screenprinting Silver Riverside Runners Bronze Play It Again Sports Honorable Mention Dick's Sporting Goods High Peak Sportswear >> w w w. ly n c h b u r g l i v i n g . c o m

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“Thank You for Voting Us” Gold Winner Best Place for a Business Lunch, also Best Atmosphere, Best Bar, Best Bartender- Leah Galatro, Best Locally Owned Restaurant, Best Restaurant for Rehearsal Dinner or Banquet, and Best Wait Staff!

Where You Can Always Find A Passion for American Cuisine & Southern Hospitality 104 Paulette Circle • Lynchburg, VA | (434) 455-4300 | www.theneighborsplace.com

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www.ThePatrioticPeacock.com

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Across from the Community Market 1210 Main Street

BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

CELEBRATION BEST WEDDING ATTIRE Gold Award Winner

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Best Studio & Interior Design

Best Towing Company

Best Wedding Attire

Gold Cranford Towing

Gold Celebration

Silver Bee Line Towing Bronze Glenn A. Trent Honorable Mention Towman Bubble's Wrecker Service

Silver Church Street Bridal (YWCA) Bronze Ashley Grace Bridal Honorable Mention Becky's Bridal Absolute Bridal and Formal

Best Travel Agency

Best Wedding Photographer

Gold Travelbugs

Gold Sam Stroud Photography

Silver Absolute Tanning Bronze Hollywood Glow Honorable Mention Hot Spot Planet Fitness

Silver Cavalier Tours Bronze Travel Team Honorable Mention AAA Travel Travel Lovers

Silver Laura Bryan Photography Bronze Adam Mullins Photography Honorable Mention KD Burke Lindsey Hinkley Photography

Best Tattoo Studio

Gold Tasha Brown - MOD Homes Silver The White Brick House Bronze Curtains, Blinds & Bath Honorable Mention Southern Provision Co. The Patriotic Peacock

Best Tanning Salon Gold Sun Tan City

Best Vape Shop

Best Wedding Venue

Gold Caspian Tattoo

Gold Dapper Dan's

Gold Sierra Vista

Silver Hill City Tattoo Silver S and J Visual Art Productions Bronze James River Tattoo Honorable Mention Jesse James Ink Tattoos

Silver Hill City Vapors Bronze Vapocalypse Honorable Mention Vaperdemic Vapor Bound

Silver Sorella Farms Bronze Trivium Honorable Mention Tresca on 8th Glencliff Manor >>

Thank you Lynchburg!

BEST GIFT AND SPECIALTY STORE BEST DELI thefarmbasket.com 2008 Langhorne Rd. 434.528.1107

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BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

OFFICE

4 3 4 -2 6 6 -1238 Commercial New Residential 434 - 610- 4 373 Construction Residential

CELL

OFFICE

4 3 4 -2 6 6 -1238 New Residential • Commerical Construction 434New - 6104 373 Upgrades Construction • Upgrades CELL

OFFICE

434 -2 6 6 -1238 434 - 610- 4 373 Community Impact Appreciation

CELL

2016

Commercial Upgrades Authorized dealer of

MINI-SPLIT AIR CONDITIONERS 10 year parts & compressor warranty

Authorized dealer of

MINI-SPLIT AIR CONDITIONERS 10 year parts & compressor warranty

Special offer Tune Up For $99

you’ve tried the rest, now try the best! ford County d e B

BCPC “We take care of P

est Control what’s bugging you!”

Our promise is to provide every customer with exceptional service at fair prices with unparalleled integrity with our work. Along with common pest control issues, we also wrestle snakes and can help with the new mosquito virus this summer.

434-660-7691 • bedfordpestcontrol@gmail.com • bedfordcountypestcontrol.com

Classes Available: Pre-School, Homeschool, Trampoline & Tumbling, Gymnastics, Cheerleading, Birthday Parties & Private Lessons 13,000+ sq ft, Foam Pit, 2 Full Size Floors, 3 Olympic Trampolines, Climbing Ropes, Rod Floor & More!

Thank You for Voting Us

Gold Level Best Brewery and One of the Best Night Spots for Live Music!

1257 Burnbridge Road • Forest, Virginia (434) 258-8761 • www.endofbadbeer.com

7621 Timberlake Rd, Lynchburg VA 24502 dynamicgymnasticsva.com • 434-528-3222

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2017 ACCORD EX-L V6

BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

HEALTH & WELLNESS Best Family Practice Gold Wyndhurst Family Medicine and Aesthetics Silver CVFP: Central Virginia Family Physicians Bronze F. Read Hopkins Pediatric Associates Honorable Mention Centra Medical Group - Nationwide Forest Direct Primary Care

Bronze Dance Music Creations Honorable Mention Jamerson YMCA The Academy of Sports and Fitness

Best Chiropractic Practice Gold Light Chiropractic

Best Adult Fitness/Activity

Silver Lynchburg Chiropractic Bronze Stickle Chiropractic Health Center Honorable Mention Brown Chiropractic and Wellness Palmer Chiropractic Center

Gold Jamerson YMCA

Best Counseling Service

Silver Crosswhite Fitness Bronze Dynamic Gymnastics Honorable Mention The Academy of Sports and Fitness Planet Fitness

Best Child Fitness/Activity

Gold Horizon Behavioral Health Silver Wishing You Well Counseling Bronze Light Counseling Honorable Mention Christian Counseling Services James River Counseling

Gold Amazement Square Silver Dynamic Gymnastics

Best Dental Practice Gold Forest Family Dentistry Silver Forest Dental Center Bronze Central Virginia Family Dentistry Riley Dental Honorable Mention Children's Dentistry and Orthodontics of Lynchburg Libbey Family Dentistry

Best Dermatology Practice Gold Dermatology Consultants, Inc. Silver RidgeView Dermatology Bronze Central Virginia Dermatology Dr. Grace A. Newton, Dermatology

Best Eye Care Gold Piedmont Eye Center Silver Harman Eye Center Bronze St. Clair Eye Care Honorable Mention Newman Blackstock and Associates Virginia Eye Clinic >>

Caspian Tattoo & Body Piercing Gold Level Award Winner for

Best Tattoo Studio

(434).944.1247 DrummondElectrical@gmail.com

• Member of Lynchburg Connect • Exceptional Service Guarantee • Service any residential and commercial electrical needs • Integrity and commitment to detail have always been our priority

Steve Drummond- Master Electrician/Owner Briggs & Stratton Generator Dealer

3813 Wards Rd, Ste B | Lynchburg, Va 434-237-1900 | www.caspiantattoo.com

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AMAZEMENT SQUARE Gold Award Winner BEST CHILD FITNESS/ACTIVITY

Silver Award Winner

Best Family Friendly Spot

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BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

Restorations & New Construction 30 Years’ Experience Chimney Inspection Repairs Brick • Hardscape Concrete • Rock • Block

Thank You

Member of

(434) 660-4740

Thank you for voting us Gold Level Best of Lynchburg Apartment Living! We would love to welcome you to our Legacy at Linden Park Family. Carefree living in Lynchburg has never been so close.

Licensed & Insured joehall70@ymail.com

www.allamericanmasonryva.com

1000 Misty Mountain Road, Lynchburg, VA 24502 434.239.5006 | www.legacyatlindenpark.com

The New London House Prime Rib

S t e ak

Sp ice Sh r i mp

Bar - B- Q Ribs

Where Friendships Are Made

& Memories Begin Bo ok yo ur Di nner Pa rt i e s No w!

Family Owned & Operated “The Hartmans”

Regular Hours: Wed, Thurs & Sun: 5-9pm | Fri & Sat: 5-10pm

4312 New London Rd | Forest, VA 24551 (434) 525-3826

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FOSTER FUELS Best Home FUEL COMPANY Gold Award Winner

Best Home Health Provider

Best Orthodontic Practice

Best Physical Therapy Center

Gold Orthodontic Arts

Gold Rehab Associates of Central Virginia

Silver Generation Solutions Bronze Gentle Shepherd Honorable Mention Home Instead Seven Hills Home Health

Silver Central Virginia Orthodontics Bronze Mark E. Blanchette D.D.S., M.S. Honorable Mention Appalachian Orthodontics Children's Dentistry and Orthodontics

Best Massage Service

Best Pediatric Practice

Silver Orthopaedic Center of Central Virginia Bronze Centra Health Physical Therapy Honorable Mention Blue Ridge Therapy Center for Pediatric Therapies Heartland

Gold Centra

Gold Massage Envy

Gold F. Read Hopkins Pediatric Associates

Silver London's Salt Spa Bronze The Parlor Spa Honorable Mention New London Massage Studio Spa and Style

Best Optometrist Gold Dr. Frank Villa Silver Dr. Gail Ganser Bronze Dr. Weatherholt & Associates Honorable Mention Dr. Paul Chopra Dr. Cathy Anderson

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Silver Richeson Drive Pediatrics Bronze CVFP: Central Virginia Family Physicians Honorable Mention Advocates for Children Pediatrics at the Rimland Center Johnson Health Center

Best Pharmacy Gold CVS Silver Hill City Pharmacy Bronze Rustburg Pharmacy Honorable Mention Walgreens Walmart

Best Retirement Community Gold The Summit Gold Westminster Canterbury Silver Runk & Pratt Senior Living Communities Bronze Valley View Retirement Community Liberty Ridge Health & Rehabilitation Center

Best Women's Health Care Gold Women's Health Services of Central Virginia Silver Forest Women's Center Bronze Lynchburg Gynecology Honorable Mention CVFP: Central Virginia Family Physicians >>

BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

“Nelles Insurance provides the best insurance solutions and customer service I have known! Dave is honest, quick, knowledgeable, and respectful. I recommend his agency frequently and without hesitation!” - Emma G. AUTO

•

HOME

•

BUSINESS

•

LIFE

2225 Lakeside Dr, Ste C Lynchburg, Virginia 434.832.0332 • nellesinsurance.com

Let Us Handle All Your Cleaning Needs! Thank You for voting us one of the Best Cleaning Services!

Fully Insured & Licensed Residential & Commercial Weekly, Bi-Weekly or Monthly • BBB See Us on Angie’s List • References Available

Thank you for voting us Best Tea Shop! 1215 Commerce St. Lynchburg – www.PloughcroftTeaRoom.com

Serving Areas of Central Virginia

TINA FOUTTY • 434-381-6024

PINKLADIESVA.COM • GLORYANDHIM@GMAIL.COM "Whatever you do, in word or deed, do all in the nature of the Lord." Colossians 3:23

Skin Care For Your Entire Family Skin Care For Your Entire Family

• Adult & General Dermatology • Adult & General Dermatology

•• Mohs SkinCancer CancerSurgery Surgery Mohs Skin •• Pediatric &Adolescent AdolescentDermatology Dermatology Pediatric & •• Aesthetic Dermatology Aesthetic Dermatology

RidgeViewDermatology.com | (434)363 363 4190 | Lynchburg ■ Forest ■ Smith Mountain RidgeViewDermatology.com | (434) 4190 | Lynchburg ■ Forest ■ Smith Mountain LakeLake

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“We are humbled and honored to be recognized in the top 1% of salons worldwide, by being accepted as members of

the most powerful and

influential organization in the hair dressing industry.”

1300 Wards Ferry Rd, Lynchburg, VA 24502 | 434.239.4454 | sagetryallsalon.com

BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

HOME Best Cleaning Services Gold Klean It Up Silver Polished to Perfection Bronze Pink Ladies Cleaning Services LLC Honorable Mention Merry Maids Cold Coffee Cleaning Godsend Cleaning

Best Electrical Company Gold Drummond Electrical Silver Maddox Air & Electrical Southern Air Inc. Bronze Moore's Electrical and Mechanical Honorable Mention Hickey Electric Heating and Air

Best Exterior Improvement Company Gold Anderson Garage Door Silver Southern Landscape Group, Inc. Bronze Taylor Brothers Honorable Mention Lynchburg Roofing Log Homes By Jack

Best Flooring Company Gold Piedmont Floor Design Silver Michael's Carpet World Bronze The Floor Show Carpet One Honorable Mention Blue Ridge Floors Lumber Liquidators

Best Heating and Air Company Gold Browns Heating and Air

Honorable Mention Southern Air Residential Commonwealth Heating & Cooling

Best Home Accessories Gold The White Brick House Silver On Second Thought Tuesday Morning Bronze Accents Flags and Gifts Honorable Mention Curtains, Blinds & Bath

Best Home Fuel Company Gold Foster Fuels Silver Watts Petroleum Bronze Sterling Oil Honorable Mention Glenwood Propane Tiger Fuel >>

Silver Wooldridge Heating and Air Bronze Maddox Air & Electrical

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434.845.0971

H E AT I N G & C O O L I N G

we service heating and

cooling equipment

Sterling Oil has been serving central Virginia’s fueling needs since 1983. We are proud to be a Family Owned and Operated Business. Our community is very important to us. If you are in need of fuel and and live in the greater Lynchburg area or surrounding counties, please don’t hesitate to call.

we can deliver fuel

directly to your house or business

simply dial and make an appointment , it ’ s that easy ! H.Wayne Beeler Owner/President | Donna Beeler Hensley Vice President | Michael W. Beeler Service Manager

STERLINGOIL.COM | 434-845-0971 Gasoline • Heating Oil • Diesel Fuel • Install Heating/Cooling Equipment

“ thank you for voting us “

www.stclair-eye.com

DOCTORS OF OPTOMETRY Dr. Gary H. St. Clair Dr. Clifford I. Phillips Dr. Mark D. Rodammer Dr. Anna H. Farouq Dr. Ashley C. Veloso

OFFICES TO SERVE YOU

ily

20838 A Timberlake Road 2514 Langhorne Road Shoppes of Appomattox

239-2800 845-6086 352-5908

PHOTOS BY K.D. BURKE PHOTOGRAPHY

gold award winner for

designer eyewear & sunglasses

one of the best of

eyecare

Lynchburg Living

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BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

The white brick house Gold Award Winner

BEST HOME ACCESSORIES Silver Award Winner

Best Studio & Interior Design Bronze Award Winner

Best Home Furnishings

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Best Home Furnishings Gold Grand Home Furnishings Silver Green Front Furniture Bronze Lancaster Galleries The White Brick House Honorable Mention Virginia Furniture Market

Best Home Remodeling Company Gold David Brown Construction Inc. Silver All-American Masonry Bronze Custom Structures Honorable Mention Gerdy Construction Chamberland Construction Inc.

Best Homebuilder Gold Deitz Lilly, Builder Inc. Silver B & C Custom Contracting Bronze Thomas Builders of Virginia, Inc.

Honorable Mention Gerdy Construction Habitat For Humanity

Best Kitchen and Bath Company Gold M.B. Tile & General Contracting Silver Ferguson Bronze Pinnacle Cabinetry & Design Honorable Mention Cornerstone Cabinets and Design Kitchen & Bath Ideas

Best Landscaping Company Gold CLC, Incorporated Silver Southern Landscape Group, Inc. Bronze AMB Landscaping Honorable Mention Gary's Garden Center RSG Landscaping & Lawn Care

Best Lawn and Garden Supply Gold Gary's Garden Center

Come & Discover 434-525-7727

Schedule Your Relaxing Mini Spa Experience for Only $59 “A 30 minute massage in our salt room followed by a 45 minute salt cave session.” facebook.com/londonsaltspa • www.londonsaltspa.com 6152 Thomas Jefferson Rd., Forest, VA 120

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Silver Lowe's Home Improvement Virginia Garden Supply Bronze Rainfrost Nursery Honorable Mention Aylor's Farm & Garden

Best Mortgage Lending Company Gold J.G. Wentworth Home Lending Silver Bank of the James Bronze Embrace Home Loans Honorable Mention Summit Mortgage Corporation Atlantic Bay Mortgage

Best Pest Control Gold Specialty Exterminating Company Silver Dodson Pest Control Bronze Bedford County Pest Control Honorable Mention Long's Pest Control Brown & Moore Pest Inspections >>

BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

Thank You

for VoTing for us We Appreciate Your Support!

Best Home Accessories—GOLD Best Home Furnishings | Best Studio and Interior Design

The White Brick House is a Vintage Marketplace open year round with over 20 creatives bringing you the best in vintage home decor, up cycled and handmade treasures. Tuesday 11-6 | Wednesday-Friday 11-5 | Saturday 11-4 434-610-2212 | 1197 Ashwood Park Rd, Forest, VA | thewhitebrickhouse.com

113-A Tradewynd Drive, Lynchburg, VA • 434.382.1738 5418 Lakeside Ave., Richmond VA • 804.262.7356

Downtown Lynchburg’s Premier Event Venue

724 COMMERCE ST, LYNCHBURG, VA 24504 TRESCAON8TH.COM • 434-229-8519 • INFO@TRESCAON8TH.COM w w w. ly n c h b u r g l i v i n g . c o m

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Proudly Serving All Of Central Virginia “Our Passion For Excellence Will Move You”

Amherst Office 101 South Main Street Amherst, VA 24521 434-946-0580

Appomattox Office 2071 Confederate Blvd. Appomattox, VA 24522 434-352-2318

www.century21.com

Bedford Office 1525 Longwood Ave., Suite A Bedford, VA 24523 540-586-5500

Forest Office 14805 Forest Road, Suite 229 Forest, VA 24551 434-525-2121

Relocation 877-391-2121

Lynchburg Office 20886 Timberlake Road Lynchburg, VA 24502 434-237-7777

www.c21all-service.com

A beautiful smile can be your best gift this year Thank You for Voting Us Gold Level for Best Sports and Custom Apparel!

Dr. Elena Black is the Only Premier Invisalign Provider in the Lynchburg Area Orthodontics for Children and Adults

Design for the way you live.

• Metal and Clear Braces • New Patients Always Welcome (434) 515-0370 37oo Old Forest Rd, Lynchburg, VA lynchburgorthodontics.com

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434-851-4664 • Mbtileinc@gmail.com Serving Lynchburg for over 15 years.

BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

THE PATRIOTIC PEACOCK Gold Award Winner

Best ART STUDIO Bronze Award Winner BEST LOCAL ARTIST Honorable Mention Award Winner Best Studio & Interior Design

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ONE WAY OUT Best Family Friendly Spot Best Tourist Attraction Gold Award Winner

Best Plumber Gold Tyree Plumbing Silver Blue Ridge Plumbing Bronze Roto-Rooter Honorable Mention Plumb Care Plumbing Gillespie Plumbing

Best Real Estate Agent Gold Jeremiah Cochenour Silver Nadine Blakely-RE/MAX Bronze Lauren Bell Honorable Mention Karl Miller Brenda Moore

Best Real Estate Company Gold Dawson Ford Garbee & Company

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Silver Lauren Bell Real Estate

Bronze Chateau Morrissette Winery

Bronze John Stewart Walker, Inc.

Honorable Mention Rebec Vineyards Trump Vineyards

Honorable Mention Karl Miller Team Century 21 Real Estate RE/MAX 1st Olympic

Best Family Friendly Spot

LIFESTYLE

Silver Amazement Square

Best Art Studio Gold The Patriotic Peacock Silver All Fired Up Bronze Rivermont Makery Honorable Mention Academy Center of the Arts Paint Nite

Best Central Virginia Winery Gold Peaks of Otter Winery Silver Veritas Vineyards & Winery

Gold One Way Out

Bronze Blackwater Creek Trail Honorable Mention Smith Mountain Lake Mister Goodies

Best Festival or Event Gold The Virginia Wine & Garlic Festival Silver Food Truck Thursdays Bronze Get Downtown! Honorable Mention Vintage Lynchburg Appomattox Railroad Festival >>

BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

An Extraordinary Experience. An Extraordinary Tradition. Best Restaurant for Rehearsal Dinner or Event Best Steak • Best Wait Staff • Best Atmosphere Best Locally Owned Restaurant • Best Place for a Business Lunch 6120 Fort Avenue, Lynchburg, VA 434.239.7744 TheCrownSterling.net

Make the day you choose your dress as special as the day you wear it

We Care about your child’s future.

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US ONE OF

16955 Forest Road Suite F Forest, VA 24551

Call Today to Schedule Your Private Appointment AshleyGraceBridal.com — 434.534.3490

THE BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY CENTERS! 101 Leroy Bowen Drive, Suite A, Lynchburg, Virginia, 24502 434.239.6630 | centerforpediatrictherapies.com

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Outdoors

Best Golf Course Gold London Downs Golf Club Silver Boonsboro Country Club Bronze Ivy Hill Golf Club Honorable Mention Poplar Grove Golf Course Poplar Forest Golf Course

Best Live Theatre Gold Jefferson Forest High School Theatre Silver Brookville High School Theatre Bronze Liberty University Tower Theater Honorable Mention E.C. Glass High School Theatre Liberty Christian Academy Theatre

Best Tourist Attraction Gold One Way Out Silver Blue Ridge Parkway Bronze Peaks of Otter Honorable Mention Smith Mountain Lake Red Hill - Patrick Henry National Memorial

Best Biking/Hiking/Running Trail

Bronze Smith Mountain Lake State Park Honorable Mention Shenandoah National Park Lynchburg Dog Park

Gold Blackwater Creek Trail

Best View of the City

Silver Peaks of Otter Bronze Percival's Island Natural Area Honorable Mention RiverWalk Trail from Downtown Lynchburg Crabtree Falls

Best Fishing Spot Gold Smith Mountain Lake Silver James River Bronze Buggs Island Lake Honorable Mention Piney River Leesville Lake

Best Park Gold Peaks View Park Silver Riverside Park

Gold Candlers Mountain/Snowflex/ LU Monogram Silver Blue Ridge Parkway Bronze Liberty University Medical School Honorable Mention City View by the James John Lynch Memorial Bridge from Madison Heights

Personalities Best Civic Leader Gold Pastor Jonathan Falwell Silver Joan Foster Bronze Len Stevens Honorable Mention Jerry Falwell Jr. Pastor Woody Torrence >>

2011 Enterprise Drive Forest, VA 24551 Tile, Carpet, Hardwood,

We are Now Proud to Offer Hardwood Sanding & Refinishing

Refinishing Hardwood, Area Rugs, & more. Residential & Commercial

Thank you for voting us GOLD for Best Flooring company

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Maven SALON

thank you

for making us number one

Jen Griffin We are happy to announce the addition of Jen Griffin, a Permanent Cosmetic Tattoo Artist to our team. Jen is one of 9 Master Tattoo Artists in the state of Virginia. She specializes in the niche art of permanent cosmetics and medical tattooing. Giving clients back their confidence by restoring what once was. Her specialties include permanent eyebrows, permanent eyeliner, permanent lips, and semi permanent eyelashes as well as medical tattooing and areola repigmentation.

Come in and check Maven Salon's new Color Lounge. Featuring every Paul Mitchell color and 7 stylists ready to meet your every hair color desire. 112 Cornerstone St. Lynchburg, VA 434.534.3115 Hours of Operation: Mon.-Thurs. 1 pm-9 pm Fri.-Sat. 7 am-3 pm

BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

AWARD-WINNING RADIO DJS

KENNY AND LEIGH ON THE MORNING JOURNEY Thanks for voting for us! Weekdays, 5:30-10 a.m.

 /MyJourneyFM | MyJourneyFM.com

Tyree Plumbing, Inc.

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SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE Gold Award Winner

BEST FISHING SPOT Honorable Mention Award Winner

BEST FAMILY FRIENDLY SPOT BEST TOURIST ATTRACTION

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Candlers Mountain/ Snowflex/ LU Monogram Best View of the City Gold Award Winner

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PUTTING THE PIECES OF THE PUZZLE TOGETHER FOR YOUR OPTIMAL HEALTH PUTTING THE PIECES OF THE PUZZLE TOGETHER COLD LASER FOR YOUR OPTIMAL HEALTH

THANK YOU FOR YOUR VOTE

THERMOGRAPHY

COLD LASER DETOX PROTOCOLS FOR YOUR VOTE THERMOGRAPHY GENTLE ADJUSTMENTS DETOX PROTOCOLS NUTRITIONAL GUIDANCE GENTLE ADJUSTMENTS PEMF Pulsed Electro Magnetic Frequency Treatments NUTRITIONAL GUIDANCE PEMF Pulsed Electro Magnetic Frequency Treatments THANK YOU

Brown Chiropractic & Wellness Center 1922 Thomson Dr #C, Lynchburg

434-528-4030 1922 Thomson Dr #C, Lynchburg

www.lindabrowndc.com

434-528-4030

www.lindabrowndc.com

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Danny and Zack

The Mornin' Thang on K92 Best Radio DJ

Honorable Mention The Worx The Ruckus

Gold Award Winner

Best Local News Anchor Gold Danner Evans

Best Local Artist Gold Charles Billingsley Silver Taylor Rodriguez Bronze The Patriotic Peacock Honorable Mention Tommy Cox Adam Barnes

Best Local Band Gold Jefferson Forest High School Band Silver Dragonfly Bronze Jenny and the B-Side Rockers

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Silver Len Stevens Bronze Noreen Turyn Honorable Mention Dennis Carter Alison Parker

Best Radio DJ Gold Danny and Zack/The Mornin' Thang on K92 Silver Kenny Robinson and Leigh Detzel/ The Journey 88.3 Bronze Brett and Boomer/94.9 Star Country Honorable Mention Bobby Bones/107.9 Dick and Dave on The Morning Show/Q99

RESTAURANTS Best Asian/Ethnic Food Gold King's Island Restaurant Silver Wasabi Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar Bronze Andy Chang China Grill Honorable Mention Thai 99 Osaka Japanese Express

Best Atmosphere Gold Braüburgers Silver Waterstone Pizza Bronze The Neighbors Place Honorable Mention The Crown Sterling {RA} Bistro >>

BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

SPECIALTY EXTERMINATING CO.

We would like to thank the community

Pest Control Termite Control Bed Bug Control Inspection Services

Experienced, Trustworthy, Knowledgeable and Driven.

We have been serving our community since 1979.

1 (800) 380-PEST (434) 929-0314

5086 S Amherst Hwy, Madison Heights, VA | Specialtyexterminating.com

visit our website

We know that you’re not just looking for property, you’re looking for a new home. Our hands-on leaders and ambitious team of professionals are committed to doing more for you. Once we help you find your dream home, our agents cover the details so you can turn your thoughts to the things that will make your house a home.

Just Voted The Best in Lynchburg... Again!

THANK YOU!

DawsonFordGarbee.com

The best way to find your home.

Two Offices To Serve You Community Knowledge. Industry Experience. Personal Dedication.

18281 Forest Rd

3715 Old Forest Rd

434-455-4777

434-385-0015

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FOREST ACCOUNTING SERVICES Thank you for voting us one of the Best Accounting Firms Business Services: Payroll

Cash Flow Management

Small Business Accounting

Bank Financing

QuickBooks Services

Tax Services

Thanks for Voting Us One of the Best Retirement Communities Liberty Ridge specializes in respectful and compassionate choices: short term rehab; short and long term skilled nursing care; and respite care. Our team of dedicated professionals provides the highest level of medical and nursing care in a great atmosphere. Please call us to make arrangements to discuss your individual needs. We look forward to hearing from you!

New Business Formation

Financial Statement Compilations

(434) 525-7989 | www.ForestAccounting.com 1076 Thomas Jefferson Road, Suite A, Forest VA

189 Monica Blvd. Lynchburg, VA 24502 Phone 434.847.2860 Fax 434.847.2738 saberhealth.com/libertyridge

Thank you to Lynchburg Living Magazine and all who voted for

JEFFREY WEALTH MANAGEMENT in the Best of Lynchburg Contest.

Thank you for voting us Gold Level “Best Caterer,” also one of the Best Places for a Business Lunch, Best Banquet Facilities, Best Restaurants for Rehearsal Dinner or Event, and Best Locally Owned Restaurants!

Call or e-mail Charley’s today for more information about our off site catering services. 707 Graves Mill Rd • Lynchburg, VA

434-237-5988

info@charleyslynchburg.com

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Our team is humbled and so appreciative of your recognition of our efforts to help all of our clients PLAN WELL | RETIRE WELL | LIVE WELL. If we can be of service for any of your financial planning needs, please ring our office at 434.509.4402 or visit us online at www.jeffreywealth.com. Thank you again and we look forward to serving.

2484 Rivermont Avenue Suite 202, Lynchburg, VA 24503 434.509.4402 • jeffreywealth.com Jeffrey Myers is a Registered Representative offering securities through Cadaret, Grant & Co., Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Jeffrey Wealth Management and Cadaret, Grant are separate entities. The nomination period ran 7/15/16 – 8/31/16. Businesses with the top 10 most reader votes proceeded to the finalists round for voting, which ran 9/1/16-9/31/16. All votes 7/15/16 – 9/31/16 were used to tabulate up to 5 levels of winners per category. The levels are Gold, Silver, Bronze and 2 honorable mentions. Not indicative of adviser’s future performance. Your experience may vary.

BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

Apocalypse Ale Works Gold Award Winner

BEST BREWERY

Honorable Mention Award Winner

Best Night Spot For Live Music

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JOE BEANS Gold Award Winner

BEST COFFEE

Bronze Award Winner BEST TEA SHOP/ TEA ROOM

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BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

3211 Old Forest Road, Lynchburg 434-385-6655 visit our website for many more properties!

JohnStewartWalker.com a sincere thank you for voting us Best in Lynchburg & also for making this a year of great success! We are extremely lucky to have customers like you and we couldn’t have done it without you!! –The Realtors and Staff of John Stewart Walker Inc.

Thank You for Choosing Us! Jane Bradley Photography

Specialty Gifts, Home Decor, Plants & More Serving Lynchburg Since 1919 | Delivery Available

Boonsboro Shopping Center 4925 Boonsboro Road, Lynchburg, VA 24503 www.BloomByDoyles.com 434-239-4444

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Best Bar

Honorable Mention Bob at Jimmy's on The James Jamie Creasy at Bulls Steakhouse

Gold Braüburgers Silver The Neighbors Place Bronze Devils Backbone Brewing Company Honorable Mention El Jefe Rivermont Pizza

Best Barbecue Gold Pok-E-Joes Silver The Silver Pig Bronze Blue Ridge BBQ Honorable Mention Dickey's Barbecue Pit Benjamin's Restaurant

Best Bartender Gold Lucas Foster at Braüburgers Silver Tabby Bennett Bronze Leah Galatro at the Neighbors Place

Best Breakfast Gold Market at Main Silver Carol's Place Restaurant Bronze Koffee Kup Honorable Mention Chick-fil-A Blue Ridge Bagels Montana Plains Bakery

Best Brewery Gold Apocalypse Ale Works Silver Devils Backbone Brewing Company Bronze Bold Rock Hard Cider Honorable Mention Blue Mountain Brewery Loose Shoe

Best Burger Gold Braüburgers Silver The Cavalier

Come enjoy the beauty of Winter in your new apartment home… Call Walden Pond and begin your new life with your own apartment home! Our community offers an active lifestyle, top-notch service, and beautiful surroundings.

Call us today for a customized quote or to schedule a tour!

1400-A Weeping Willow Dr., Lynchburg, VA 24501

855-228-9942

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Bronze Beer 88 Honorable Mention Texas Inn {RA} Bistro

Best Coffee Gold Joe Beans Silver The Muse Coffee Company Bronze The White Hart/Blackwater Coffee Honorable Mention Bean Tree Café The Bean Barn

Best Deli Gold Westside Deli Silver Magnolia Foods Bronze Jersey Mike's Honorable Mention Farmbasket McAlister's Deli >>

Thank You for making us the Best Of Lynchburg, we could not have done it without each and every one of you!

Love, A Very Blessed Chick!

Voted One of the Best Clothing Stores and Best Gift & Specialty in Lynchburg

18013 Forest Rd. Suite A-03 | Forest, VA | Graves Mill Shopping Center | (434) 610-9278 Hours: Monday–Friday 10am–6pm, Saturday 10am–4pm, Closed Sunday

BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

MAG BY

Steak • Seafood • Fresh Catch Gourmet Desserts & Much More!

NOL JOA

IA H OM

NNA

GAI

NES

MAG NO HOM LIA E JOA N

MAG

NOL

HORIZ

IA H OM

ONTA

GAI

NES

MAG NO HOM LIA E VERTICA

ENJOY OUR OUTDOOR DECK DINING WITH LIVE ENTERTAINMENT!

14900 Forest Road • Forest, Va 434-534-6077 • www.cowsandcrabs.com

LYNCHBURG 5401 Fort Ave • 434.239.5900 www.grandhomefurnishings.com

GOLD Best Home Furnishings

FOREST

FAMILY THANK YOU FOR

VOTING

DENTISTRY

PATIENTS BEST DENTAL PRACTICE NEW WELCOME

IMPLANTS | CEREC

ROOT CANALS | LASER

CROWN & BRIDGE WORK DENTURES & PARTIALS

IN OFFICE VENUS WHITENING

DIGITAL XRAYS | 3D IMAGING

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

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1045 Thomas Jefferson RD www.forestfamilydentistry.com Forest, VA 24551

BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

MARKET AT MAIN BEST BREAKFAST Gold Award Winner

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Mrs. Joy's Absolutely Fabulous Treats BEST DESSERTS Gold Award Winner

Best Desserts

Best Frozen Dessert

Best Kid Friendly Restaurant

Gold Mrs. Joy's Absolutely Fabulous Treats

Gold Mister Goodies

Gold Chick-fil-A

Silver Mister Goodies Bronze Mama Crockett's Cider Donuts Honorable Mention Montana Plains Bakery Sluggo's Sundae Drive

Silver MayLynn's Creamery Bronze Monkee Joes Java & Creamery Honorable Mention Sluggo's Sundae Drive Sweet Frog

Silver Braüburgers Bronze La Carreta Mexican Restaurant Honorable Mention Cicis Pizza Mi Patron Mexican Restaurant

Best Food Truck

Best Italian

Gold Mama Crockett's Cider Donuts

Gold La Villa Italian Restaurant

Best Locally Owned Restaurant

Silver Cheesy Rider Bronze Strites Donuts Honorable Mention Taco Shark Blue Ridge BBQ Truck

Silver Isabella's Italian Trattoria Bronze Waterstone Pizza Honorable Mention Lori's Italian Grill & Pizzeria Vinny's Italian Grill & Pizzeria

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Gold Braüburgers Silver The Neighbors Place Bronze Waterstone Pizza Honorable Mention The Crown Sterling Charley's Restaurant & Catering >>

BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

Givens Books - Little Dickens est.1976

Thank You for All The Years You Have Voted us Best Book Store! Find it here, buy it here, keep us here. Thank you for supporting all locally owned & operated businesses. Shop Locally to Strengthen Your Community. 2236 Lakeside Dr. Lynchburg,VA | 434-385-5027 | Hours: M-F 8am-8pm, Sat. 9am-7pm

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MISTER GOODIES Gold Award Winner

BEST FROZEN DESSERT Silver Award Winner BEST DESSERT Honorable Mention Award Winner BEST FAMILY FRIENDLY SPOT

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WE OPEN DOORS Thanks to everyone who voted. We love serving this community.

SANDY SPECK

TAMMY MIKKELSON

434-338-6235 NMLS#290113 Licensed in VA 1317 Enterprise Drive Lynchburg, VA 24502

434-338-3230 NMLS#1003506 Licensed in VA 1317 Enterprise Drive Lynchburg, VA 24502

Thank You! For voting us

BEST GIFT & SPECIALTY & BEST CLOTHING STORE

Open

Tuesday-Friday

10:30AM - 5:30PM Saturdays

CUSTOM GIFT BASKETS & WREATHS JEWELRY, CLOTHING, BEER & WINE

10:30AM - 4PM 1045 THOMAS JEFFERSON RD | FOREST, VA 24551 | (434) 525 2406 w w w. ly n c h b u r g l i v i n g . c o m

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Follow Me to Terry Subaru... Don’t Get Stuck at Home

888.349.8001

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BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

MAMA CROCKETT"S CIDER DONUTS Gold Award Winner

BEST FOOD TRUCK Bronze Award Winner BEST DESSERTS

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Best Mexican

Best Restaurant for Rehearsal Dinner or Event

Bronze Phase 2 Honorable Mention Apocalypse Ale Works Benjamin's Restaurant

Gold La Carreta Mexican Restaurant Silver Mi Patron Mexican Restaurant Bronze El Jefe Honorable Mention Lola's Mexican Cuisine Fiesta Tapatia

Gold The Crown Sterling Silver Shoemakers American Grille Bronze Charley's Restaurant & Catering Honorable Mention The Neighbors Place {RA} Bistro

Best Pizza Gold Waterstone Pizza Silver Rivermont Pizza Bronze Upper Crust Pizza Company Honorable Mention Original Italian Pizza La Villa Italian Restaurant

Best New Restaurant (1 year old or less) Gold El Jefe Silver Trio Brick Oven Eatery Bronze Beer 88 Honorable Mention The Corner at Rivermont Kathleen O'Byrne's Irish Tearoom

Best Restaurant for Romantic Date Gold The Crown Sterling

Best Place for a Business Lunch Gold The Neighbors Place Silver Charley's Restaurant & Catering The Depot Grille Bronze Shakers Restaurant Honorable Mention The Crown Sterling

Best Night Spot for Live Music Gold Braüburgers Silver Jimmy's on the James

Silver Shoemakers American Grille Bronze {RA} Bistro Honorable Mention Isabella's Italian Trattoria New London Steakhouse >>

Convenient.

Friendly. Service. Photo Credit: Hope Stevens Photography

“As a loyal customer of CVFCU, I like the convenience...and friendliness of the staff. You are always greeted upon entering and service is fast and easy.” ~ Jennifer Cash, member

Voted Best of Lynchburg by Lynchburg Living Readers

Have you been to our shop in Cornerstone, Lynchburg, VA? We have a great selection of new and like-new children’s clothes sizes NB-10, shoes, toys, strollers, gift items, books, and so much more! We add new items to the floor every single day!

Carol’s

Sweet Pea’s

This is where you belong... for Life!

Stay in the Lynchburg Loop

Number One for a Reason

Each week, receive info about exciting events happening in Lynchburg and surrounding cities— straight to your inbox!

Here at Your Community Credit Union, we treat our members to the service you deserve! We work to help you on the journey of becoming financially successful in every stage of life. From Youth Clubs to Retirement Accounts, we are here for you...for Life. Federally Insured by NCUA | An Equal Housing Lender

434/528-9016 800/335-0069 www.cvfcu.com

Lynchburg Timberlake Road • Mt Athos Road Madison Heights Seminole Plaza Forest Cavalier Corner

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LYNCHBURGLIVING.COM

LL_1216_IT LIST 1_8 AD.indd 1

12/21/16 3:26 PM

When snow or ice covers the roads, snow plows are on the job with salt to keep ice from forming on the roads. The salt used is corrosive and can easily damage the surfaces of your vehicle. This compromises the structural integrity of the vehicle.

Stop in today to prolong the life of your car and protect it from harmful salt components. (Salt Prep is also available in the Coach and First Class washes as an add on.)

THANKS FOR VOTING US BEST CARWASH IN LYNCHBURG!

LYNCHBURG’S PREmIER CAR WASH Express Jet offers the best bang for the buck delivering a great wash like no other in the area, all in under 3 minutes. Vacuums are always free with the purchase of a wash. We offer micro-fiber towels to touch up your car and free window cleaner. We also provide a free floor mat cleaner for those dirty mats and if all that FREE FREE FREE doesn’t excite you, read about our frequent flyer unlimited wash program located on our website. We have eliminated any excuse for a dirty car.

Our mission at Express Jet Car Wash is to provide a genuinely pleasant and satisfying experience to each of our customers. Our goal is to develop a trusting relationship with you, defined by honesty, integrity and fairness. Your time is precious, and we will not waste it. Your automobile is valued, and we will not abuse it. Your trust is essential, and we will work hard to earn it. Your satisfaction is our greatest desire, and we mean to provide it.

3805 Wards Rd, Lynchburg, VA 24502 | 434.439.4595 | expressjetcarwash.com

BEST OF LYNCH BURG 2016-17

WATERSTONE PIZZA Gold Award Winner

BEST PIZZA Silver Award Winner BEST ATMOSPHERE Bronze Award Winner BEST ITALIAN Best Locally Owned Restaurant

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LUNCH • AUTHENTIC AFTERNOON TEA SERVICE • SPECIAL EVENTS BRIDAL LUNCHEONS • BRIDAL AND BABY SHOWERS • REHEARSAL DINNERS We would like to thank you for voting for us by offering you a

FREE CUP OF TEA!

Come in and let us know you voted for us and your cup of tea is complimentary! Thank you for your support!

OPEN FOR LUNCH AND AFTERNOON TEA TUESDAY - SATURDAY 10:30 AM - 4:00 PM

A Petite Tea Parlor located in the Boonsboro Shopping Center

OUR CATERING DEPARTMENT OFFERS FULL SERVICE OFF SITE CATERING

4925 Boonsboro Road Lynchburg, VA 24503 434-439-4480 or 434-473-5983 kathleenobyrnes@hotmail.com

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Best Restaurant for Vegetarian/Vegans Gold Zoë's Kitchen Silver Crisp Bronze Magnolia Foods Honorable Mention Millie's Living Café Milan Indian Cuisine

The Ploughcroft tea room

Best Seafood Gold Benjamin's Restaurant Silver Red Lobster Bronze The Dahlia Honorable Mention Blue Marlin Seafood Market Harbor Inn Seafood

Best Steak Gold New London Steakhouse Silver The Crown Sterling Bronze Shoemakers American Grille Honorable Mention Perky's Restaurant Texas Roadhouse

Best TEA SHOP/ TEA ROOM Gold Award Winner Best Tea Shop/Tea Room Gold The Ploughcroft Tea Room Silver Kathleen O'Byrne's Irish Tearoom Bronze Joe Beans Honorable Mention The Muse Coffee Company Open Porch

Best Wait Staff Gold Chick-fil-A Silver Braüburgers Bronze The Crown Sterling Honorable Mention La Carreta Mexican Restaurant The Neighbors Place

come in and shop our full front end of local vendors, local food products, health and beauty needs, seasonal merchandise, gifts, and more!

Thank you for voting us the GOLD winner for Best Breakfast. The Old DAV Building

434-237-MEDS (6337) 20276 Timberlake Road, LYNCHBURG VA 24502

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A REVOLUTION

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855-982-1591

For more information visit www.SonoSpineSurgery.com Offices in Forest and Charlottesville

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[ T R AV E L]

Omni Homestead Resort A FIRSTHAND EXPERIENCE OF VIRGINIA’S ICONIC, HISTORIC HOTEL BY JEREMY ANGIONE

t was a particularly cold night the evening I drove to the Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, Va. It was a beautiful, scenic drive—the mountains and rural towns of Bath County acting

resort were intricately decorated with Christmas lights. The sight was

The Homestead is, at times, a place where you may feel underdressed in your Sunday best. But, that’s all right. Because, for every luxurious amenity, there are plenty of homey touches that encourage relaxation. Whatever your background may be, Homestead Marketing Manager Eileen Judah assures that there are several draws to make the resort a personalized experience. “It’s very flexible.”

overwhelming; I knew my stay would be memorable.

THE HISTORY

as a precursor to heighten my anticipation. Finally, around a bend I could see the resort in the distance. It was dark, but the lawn and

When I stepped into the thankfully very warm lobby, I admit, the long hall adorned with columns and fireplaces was a little intimidating. It was equal parts shopping mall, fine dining, fancy estate and hotel. It felt like something out of a movie; something I might not be fit for. The staff, with their warmth and attention, assured me otherwise.

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About 10 years before the ink dried on the Declaration of Independence, the Homestead opened to the public in the rural town of Hot Springs. The resort just wrapped a full year of activities and events to celebrate its 250th anniversary. Hot Springs is named after the earthy springs that were staples of the area, drawing the likes of political figures such as Thomas Jefferson and Robert E. Lee.

TR AVEL

ABOVE: The Main Dining Room offers what the resort describes as a “refined continental cuisine.” TOP RIGHT: Relax in the Serenity Garden and the outdoor springfed spa pool that’s open year round. RIGHT: The indoor pool was built in 1904 and is fed by the area’s naturally warm mineral spring waters.

Homestead Historian Keene Byrd—a man with a dry delivery, accompanied by a surprisingly cheeky sense of humor—is an expert on the lodge’s past.

“So much history happened here in this one place,” Byrd said. Byrd says the springs were the height of the Homestead’s activities in the 1800s, but the traditions of the time demanded men and women enjoy them separately. Different color flags were used to indicate which gender was currently soaking. According to Byrd, sometimes pranksters would switch the flag colors causing embarrassing results. Byrd also showed me the lobby bar that had walls covered in portraits of American LEFT: Great Hall, 1940s. ABOVE: Front Exterior, early 1900s.

presidents who have visited the Homestead during their time in office. Over the span of 250 years the expansive resort has built an impactful legacy, that fire or time seem unable to mar.

The Homestead proudly displays its rich history—from the Jeffersonian architecture to the daily history tour. The South Parlor is surrounded by painted panels displaying imagery that tells the story of the Homestead’s many milestones, starting with its founding in 1766 to the fire of 1901 that lead to much of the current building you see now through reconstruction.

“We must be doing something right,” Byrd said.

THE CELEBRATION In an age of trends, technology and businesses with shrinking life spans, the milestone of 250 years—older than America—is nothing short of remarkable. And the Homestead celebrated that anniversary in a grand fashion. >>

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In 2013, the Homestead was acquired by Omni Hotels & Resorts, becoming the Omni Homestead Resort.

“We started planning our 250th anniversary a couple of years ago. We had a very long list of ideas,” Director of Marketing and Communications Lynn Swann said. Those ideas manifested themselves in several unique ways, big and small. For instance, the bakers were challenged to create a different cake recipe for every day of the year. The initiative brandished the fun slogan, “A historic anniversary that truly takes the cake.” Additionally, every month had its own theme. For example, January celebrated associates (staff), while February focused on presidents. Swann says they even used the 3 p.m. tea time as an additional opportunity to celebrate the anniversary. A guest suggested the time be changed to 2:50 p.m. Swann was amused they had not thought of it.

THE STAFF According to Swann, the Homestead is staffed with roughly 1,100 associates during its peak seasons, the holidays and summer.

The staff help to provide what Swann describes as “genuine southern hospitality.” “The associates are the core of who we are,” Swann said. Some staff members follow a legacy of family members who have served the Homestead for generations. Those Homestead mainstays— often remembering names and even food orders— are cherished by the guests. 156

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“Guests come back, and they form bonds with our associates. It’s almost like a reunion of sorts,” Swann said. Kenny Gwin is a perfect illustration of the legacies some associates share with the Homestead. He has worked at the resort for 46 years, and his family has worked at the Homestead for three generations. Gwin, dressed in all white and covered in paint, spoke softly but passionately during our interview about the resort and its positive impact on his life. He stated that he had nothing but good to say about his workplace and home, the “old girl.” “Me and the ‘old girl’ [have] been together a long time. She’s an old girl, but she’s a beautiful girl. She’s seen her times, she really has,” Gwin said.

THE EXPERIENCE

It is quite the task to attempt to experience everything the Homestead has to offer. Even more challenging is remaining concise while trying to describe it all. The Homestead boasts more than 2,000 acres, 483 guest rooms, and over 30 activities for guests to discover. When I found my room, I was awestruck. It had all the perks you’d expect at any hotel, but touched with Homestead’s unique brand of colonial warmth. The attention to detail was refreshing. Kenny Gwin My first evening there was little time to rest, as I had a dinner reservation at Sam Snead’s Tavern—a quaint and “She’s an old subtle eatery nestled away from the main resort site. The tavern honors Snead, Bath County local celebrity girl, but she’s and the Homestead’s own golfer extraordinaire. The a beautiful meal and the atmosphere were a little closer to what I’m girl. She’s seen used to, with a simple menu and rustic aesthetic you would expect in a sports bar. French onion soup, fish her times, she and chips, and one big cookie were my company for the really has.” night, as I feasted like a very modest king.

TR AVEL The next day, I was treated to a breakfast buffet that

Before I would leave in the morning,

was almost as extensive as the resort itself. This day

I had one more dinner to attend at

was particularly exciting, as I experienced a few of the

Jefferson’s Restaurant. Although

Homestead’s many activities. My choices: horseback

the menu seemed high class, it was

riding, a much-needed massage afterward, and a trip to the

comprised of several meaty dishes that

resort’s unique spa area, the aqua thermal suite. The suite

appealed to those unique American

houses various, unique spa treatments including aromatic

sensibilities. The meatballs and a

steam rooms, a chilling mist room, and experiential

braised lamb stew were delicious and

showers that combine light, sound and temperature to

so well presented that I could not help

create the feel of a Caribbean or Atlantic storm. Throughout my day I enjoyed my experiences alongside other guests and families and got a chance to chat with them about what brought them to the resort. For many, the Homestead is a family tradition. Others were exploring the resort on a tour to plan a future trip. Some were simply in town on business or said they visit to see the leaves change. “This is also sort of that grand, old-fashioned, American family vacation,” Swann said.

but take a few photos. On my last morning, a particularly sunny day, I did some exploring, ate as much of that breakfast buffet as I could, and attended the Homestead’s history tour. I was thankful for the

Jeremy couldn’t resist snapping a couple cell phone photos of his meals. He enjoyed fish and chips at Sam Snead’s Tavern (left) and meatballs with a braised lamb stew at Jefferson’s Restaurant (above).

Land Cruise v a c at i o n s weather because when

Whatever the reason for their stay, all agreed that the Homestead was a unique place with a special environment. “It’s just really nostalgic in a weird way,” businessman Matt Childers said.

it was time to leave, I

was able to take in the

and

amazing view of Bath

County, home to a one-

of-a-kind destination full of history and culture.

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Gourmet Burgers, Pizzas, Great Wings & Hand Cut Fries Large Selection of Craft Beers

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Try Zaxby’s Boneless Wings Meal tossed in Hot Honey Mustard. Boneless wings with a little kick of heat and a touch of sweet, served with Crinkle Fries, Texas Toast, Celery, Ranch Sauce and a 22oz Drink. © 2017 Zaxby’s Franchising LLC Each Zaxby’s restaurant is independently owned and operated under a license agreement with Zaxby’s Franchising LLC. “Zaxby’s” is a registered trademark of Zaxby’s Franchising LLC. Dr Pepper is a registered trademark of Dr Pepper/Seven Up, Inc. ©2017 Dr Pepper/Seven Up, Inc.

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Call for hours • 434.944.6641 4327 Boonsboro Road, Lynchburg, Virginia

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Come Out of Your Shell START THE NEW YEAR WITH A NEW VIEW OF OYSTERS BY RACHEL DALTON

ou either love them or hate them. There is not much gray area when it comes to oysters, except maybe when it comes

to their outer shell. It has been said, “He was a bold man who ate the first oyster.” But these days, with all the varying ways to prepare and serve them, almost anyone can find a way to enjoy oysters. Still not sure? To convince you of what you’re missing, we visited a few of the best oyster spots in town to get some advice. >>

W W W. LY N C H B U R G L I V I N G . C O M

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Millstone Tea Room

om gave illstone Tea Ro red Srsic of M Ja r ne “The old rt s. Pa Chef to eat oyster hen and why w on p ers in st oo sc oy me the b was to eat ’s rule of thum an frigeration rm re he er fis crusty lack of prop s: on as re o s for tw n in the the ‘R’ month oysters spaw the fact that d an ys da won’t hurt d s in the ol ning oyster summer. Spaw of s er at and languid. w y warmer kind of milk t, ea gr e st ta don’t away from you, but they y people shy ons that man as re e os the th ut r It is fo he said. “B mer months,” m su e th om in fr s ers oyster ld water oyst s ’s access to co igeration help fr re modern chef e bl lia and super re . ld er st or w oy e er th m sum around ’ fears of the most guests ring in alleviating du es on fried e grilled and Stick with th re.” if you’re unsu tends to the summer at Chef Jared th le ru e on ly on tter, is e Ther ple. “Garlic bu n—keep it sim he tc ki bacon-laced s hi or t in follow cornmeal crus , er pp pe a great d salt an should touch mignonette, ly things that on e th t alive and ou is are ab shell oyster scalded milk oks that the co y m d iously in lig m er. I re rub each re Virginia oyst stored. We sc is it n a he ith w w e n aliv d blanketed should remai side down an pcu hen W em n. th fa e stor osest to the upon arrival; refrigerator cl If e a. uc od om pr ar r d in ou , texture an damp towel te appearance ua al ev ” e d. w , em ly discarde they shuck th ey are prompt fried these tests, th ss pa t has to be the n’ e do on they enu at Millst m e en th be on y dl sh di have prou Our favorite sing that they es dr on g st eg le d ar le devi ilar dish in Ch oysters with red had a sim Ja ef a Ch en . 07 be 20 it, and it’s serving since le to recreate e swears kfully was ab an th o, ag em down? H s th year ay to wash w st be e Th nce. ampagne! staple ever si st French ch ale or the be le pa p ea ch by a

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Flip to Local Flavor on a Southern Fried Oy page 164 for ster recipe!

The Main St. Eatery and Catering Co.

We asked Ch ef Urs Gabat huler, proprie Main St. Eate tor of The ry and Caterin g Co., if oyster popular dish s are a at his intimat e restaurant. us “yes, inde He tells ed” for the so phisticated cl they tend to ientele service. He so ur ces his from Chesapeake the Bay and Nor th Carolina. Ch raw oysters sh ef Urs tells m ould have th e eir own juice called liquor, within the sh and warns us el l, the biggest m preparing oy istake when sters is to ov ercook! If you are an oyster neophy te, Main St. Ea provide you tery will with the mos t va rie ty of preparat You must go ions. soon as Chef tells us their menu is seas sp ec ia l oyster onal and only available from through Febr N ov em ber uary. Of the many dishes, the O ysters Imperia with Crabmea l Au Gratin t Imperial se em s like the easi Served fresh est choice. and hot, thes e babies are introduction th e perfect into the wide world of oyst Chef Urs tells ers. me his custom ers often enjo drink pairing y suggestions fr om his staff. He recommend w ould a fine dry Pino t Grigio, Char flute of cham do nn ay or a pagne with an y of his oyster dishes.

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The Water Dog

the few. u’re one of WD) yet, yo (T og D e er The Wat hburg favorit not been to come a Lync be y kl ic If you have ts qu bar has derson wan e and oyster ner Dave Hen are The tap hous oysters. Ow w ra r the oysters fo n re to” in tow home whe ur yo the of n d io and the “go extens tch made, an of TWD as an entirely scra t os m ed al ill is you to think gr e menu y decadent h to order, th boasts man u en m e e th shucked fres th okies!), y. While omemade co ws endlessl d desserts (h craft beer flo an ds la sa , ns, snacks r cheese optio is show. g oysters fo the star of th is s been eatin ha e av D ” raw oyster rhead, D, and imed “oyste ssion to TW A self-procla brings this pa e H r. purest be e em th can rem sters are as long as he ht, re. “I think oy he yw er br ev be iny, lig ence of it f. They can el its a se there is evid e tside th sea and its of the sea, ou d you of the expression ey can remin Th . lic ng to sand al gi et slightly m bubbles clin sometimes e foam and Th . es evidence av as w g, rolling footprints mesmerizin ing only your av le at ck th r ba n creeps e yearns fo as the ocea mantic in m ro e naked Th l— e. el er e ever th the half sh that you wer raw oyster in a g at tin th ea on I know by n be back feeling, and uor—that I ca liq n ow its aking in and only so conds.” se beach in is guy? g raw u not love th n e intimidatin How ca yo ” Not ne new to th eo m so n the hatch! w w ave ho r, “Raw and do d, ke We asked D jo ue he eq nt visito d onaut and fr to them, an tr in as se d ea he n se is ’s cher oyster ca e could ea “Lynchburg best way on He tells us, obably the pr ’s at convinced? Th fried. n, loves them r. ” Leland Melvi yster Shoote ht into raws. rig ng vi up a great O di t es rv ou se ith w of so h al D into them st a touc courage, TW ve it with ju a little liquid st ooter is to ha Sh r te If you need dka from ju ys O Vo e th ck Distillery experience ba er to lv ay Si w er tle ef st d a lit but I pr “The be Mary mix an a shot glass, ade Bloody e le like it from op pe ure all of th e our house-m pt m ca So , Virginia. e sure you on ak ft m A , in do w u ra ad yo ver up the ro k with your shell. Whate enjoy a drin t of the halfbut want to with r te oo it straight ou sh e fo th ef rtlessly ine will pair r!” Not in to w uo te liq hi er w st y tter salty oy out. a bottle of bu TWD is all ab e promises hich is what w s, nd oysters? Dav serve ie fr n te e with ey most of is fun to shar e oysters. Th ak pe gray (James oysters and sa in he St C showcases tern Shore), es og W D , er ay (Ship at B W The , Va., Lower Chesapeake aside), and er (Topping iv Se R ., k Va oc rites e, nn vo gu Rappaha ure fan fa (Chincotea ey “also feat Tom's Cove th ), e er m at lls w ” te a. de e River, Ti E.I. in Canad Shore). Dav ay, Eastern Cove from P. B ks er oo pp C U or J, at , NY, John, N nonette th Long Island al Spicy Mig Points from h an option it w such as Blue up em g secret is to ir of the do erg serves th — ave says ha D Chef Liz Rob nd A ! y at brunch us Bloody Mar shared with ur ly yo us in ro e ne uc sa she ge e as the hot y Mignonett use the Spic ! now we know

The Water Dog Spicy Mignonette BY CHEF LIZ ROBERG Sriracha - 1 cup Tabasco - 1 cup Freshly Grated Ginger - 1/2 cup Minced Shallot - 1/2 cup Lime - Zest and juice of 4 each Salt and Pepper to Taste

Rachel Dalton is a wife, mother and blogger with a fondness for arts and craft cocktails, supporting local businesses and her three rescue dogs. After serving as the sales and marketing director at The Tobacco Company Restaurant in Richmond for nearly a decade, Rachel appreciates the quality ingredients, excellent service and attention to detail found on the burgeoning Lynchburg restaurant scene. These days, Rachel is most likely dining out with her husband, sharing a bottle of wine with friends or planning her next meal.

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Historic Gastropub

seriousLy GooD FooD

Featuring: Virginia seafood, charbroiled steaks, choice pub Foods, specialty salads, Homemade Desserts, smooth Wines, Local microbrews, Full bar

2221 bedford ave, Lynchburg Va www.thedahlialynchburg.com

best martini menu

434.846.0601

Hours: monday-saturday 11am - till Saturday Brunch 11am-3pm • Closed Sunday

now open Mondays 11am - 9pm

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LIVING LYNCHBURG

Lunch & Dinner

Connect with us on our new and improved gorgeous website: LynchburgLiving.com for everything Lynchburg!

Tuesday through Saturday

Sunday for Brunch 4925 Boonsboro Road www.isabellasitalian.com

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LL WEB IT LIST AD .indd 1

12/21/16 3:25 PM

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» DISHING IT UP

No Knife Necessary TRY THE TENDER FILET AND CRAB CAKE AT SHOEMAKERS AMERICAN GRILLE BY RACHEL DALTON

hile it’s easy to get a thrill from the shiny

knife. The delicate crab is Maryland Blue, and the

new hot spots popping up along Lynchburg's

cake is seared with a panko crust. General Manager

Bluffwalk, there is something to be said for

Jen Reilly suggests this luscious combo would be

the timeless appeal of a local favorite that can be relied

perfectly paired with a glass (or two?) of BR Cohn

on for its classic dishes and elegant ambiance. Since 2007,

Pinot Noir or Trefethen Cabernet.

Shoemakers American Grille has been serving up the finest steaks, freshest seafood and tempting desserts to Lynchburg residents and beyond.

If you have a sweet tooth and a little more room, Jen tells me the Chocolate Blackout Cake “is the richest, most decadent chocolate cake” she has ever had. It is

Go all out and order one of the most popular dishes on

the perfect way to finish your meal. If you’re not in the

the menu, the filet and crab cake. On a recent visit, the

mood for chocolate, she recommends the cheesecake.

Midwestern beef is prepared to perfection—medium rare.

Executive Chef Roger Murphy is from New York and

It’s so tender there is no use for the accompanying steak

promises, “It is wonderfully authentic!”

Shoemakers American Grille 1312 Commerce St., Lynchburg (434) 455-1510 shoemakersdining.com W W W. LY N C H B U R G L I V I N G . C O M

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Southern Fried Oysters W

e are excited to kick off a new spin on the Local Flavor section of Lynchburg Living. Each issue, we will put local dishes and their creators in the spotlight. It’s a chance to give them some kudos while giving you some fresh, attainable ideas for your kitchen. Lisa Woodroof is the proud mother of a “superkindergartener” and wife to a “local Lynchburgian.” In her previous life, she owned a restaurant on the Rappahannock River and a catering business in Northern Virginia. These days, you will find Lisa working as a proposal manager by day but chef extraordinaire come dinnertime. Lisa writes a fabulous food blog called Bourbon in the Kitchen (www.bourboninthekitchen.com) and is published in the book A Taste of Virginia History. She warns when you try one of her recipes, you may never be the same!

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10 STEPS TO

Perfectly Fried Oysters, Every Time BY LISA WOODROOF INGREDIENTS: 1 quart of Virginia Oysters 8 cups of flour or House of Autry Seafood Breader 1 cup of panko bread crumbs 1/4 cup of Old Bay, Chesapeake Seasoning or Cajun Seasoning 2 tablespoons of sea salt

2 tablespoons of course ground black pepper Pinch of Cayenne (Optional if you like spicy) 6 large eggs 1 lemon 50-60 ounces of cooking oil Cocktail sauce Tartar sauce

DIRECTIONS: Step 1: Pour the quart of oysters into a strainer and drain for five minutes (do not rinse oysters). Step 2: Pull out a large platter and prepare the southern seasoned breader by combining the House of Autry Seafood Breader, panko, Old Bay seasoning, sea salt, black pepper and cayenne. Fork together the ingredients. Step 3: Beat your six eggs and place nearby the breader platter. Step 4: Place your drained oysters into your egg mix (if you have small eggs, you may need to add more eggs). Oysters should be well submersed. Lightly move around your oysters in the eggs to ensure they are coated well. Step 5: Grab a pair of kitchen tongs, and place your oysters in that mixed southern seasoned breader one at a time. Using a fork, make sure each oyster is coated (not drenched in thick breader but coated). Move those tasty oysters to a clean large platter (I put parchment paper down on the platter first). Once all oysters are breaded, place this platter in your freezer for 5-8 mins just before frying. Step 6: Fire up the deep fryer or get a deep cooking pan and add enough oil where you have approximately 1.5-2 inches of standing oil. If you are

doing this on your stove, remember that your oil should be somewhere between 360 to 375 degrees for frying. Medium to high temperature will get you there on the stove top. Step 7: Pull out your cocktail sauce. Do yourself a favor and kick up the recipe: add a pinch of cayenne, Old Bay, black pepper and a smidgen of horseradish. Squeeze a lemon slice too. Tartar sauce: add a pinch of cayenne, Old Bay, black pepper, squeeze a lemon slice, and toss in fresh parsley. Step 8: Drop a test oyster into your pan/fryer to confirm your oil is good to go. If your oil isn’t hot enough, your oysters will be soggy. If it’s too hot, you will burn them. Bring over each oyster individually allowing enough space in the pan between each oyster for frying. Step 9: Place cooked oysters on a large platter (I like to drain the oil by placing paper towels down on the platter). But immediately pinch sea salt over while the oysters are hot. (This is an important tip). Step 10: Have someone pour your favorite beverage and serve these hot and amazing oysters, with a pinch of sea salt and that Old Bay on top. Don’t forget to scoot over the kicked-up cocktail and tartar too.

Do you have some “local flavor” you want to share? A dish friends and family beg you to make time and time again? We want to hear from you! Send an email with your recipe and explanation to feedback@lynchburgmag.com.

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Benny Scarpetta’s HOME OF THE VIRGINIA SLICE

BY RACHEL DALTON

ucked into a cozy block on Main Street, Benny Scarpetta’s is just one of many (more than ten!) for pie shop owners Zach Toth and Chris Brown. With locations in Virginia,

North Carolina, and South Carolina, I was curious what made them LEFT: The letter from Cooper Cook, the boy who requested a Benny’s in Lynchburg, is posted inside the Main Street restaurant.

bring their gooey, piping hot, HUGE slices of pizza to our town for their next venture.

Chris and Zach live in Blacksburg and Moneta respectively but really love the history and character of Downtown Lynchburg. Already fans of the “pizza by the slice” shops they had seen in New York City, the guys wanted to bring this concept to Southwest

Benny Scarpetta's 1019 Main St., Lynchburg (434) 528-5111 bennysva.com/ BennyScarpettas

Virginia. But it seems we have another person to thank for getting these gigantic slices to Lynchburg. Chris and Zach received a letter from a boy by the name of Cooper Cook asking them to open a shop here, and they just couldn’t refuse! The guys tell me, “We really enjoy the excitement surrounding historic downtowns and in terms of landscape, Downtown Lynchburg is our favorite in Virginia. The old Famous building on Main Street presented a perfect location for us where it housed a business that had been part of Lynchburg for almost 100 years.” They also say they have received more support from Lynchburg locals than anywhere else and are so excited to be a part of our downtown. The menu and concept at Benny’s is simple. No frills, fresh ingredients, delicious pizza, cold drinks. One of the most popular local pies is Buffalo Chicken, but the Classic Pepperoni “trumps all.” The least popular pie was the Hotdog Slice so don’t anticipate seeing that one again. For now, there is no delivery option. Chris and Zach like the face-to-face interaction and prefer that the phones aren’t ringing constantly. Bring your kids, bring your friends or pull up a bar stool solo… just get to Benny’s ASAP. The owners are awesome, and the pizza is the best I’ve had in awhile (ever?). Welcome guys—and thanks Cooper Cook for getting them to town!

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[ GARDEN]

y t i n u m m o C ardens: G FEEDING BODY AND SOUL

BY SUSAN TIMMONS

iss Minnie brought us eggs from her backyard chickens. Curles Neck Dairy delivered bottles of milk from nearby county cows to our back porch. And Farmer John’s rusty pick-up

rumbled through the alley behind our house with fresh veggies for sale. The butcher and grocer at neighborhood Stonewall Market (where delivery was an option) rounded out the basic food groups for our table. This was the food delivery system of my childhood in the city of Richmond. This was before agri-business and super market chains took over.

WASTE NOT, WANT NOT AND THIRD-WORLD NUTRITION Mom regularly referenced “Starving Armenians” when admonishing my sisters and me to eat every morsel placed before us (like it or not). Despite only vague awareness of where these poor people were starving (or what we could do about it), I grasped her point that we weren’t to take the privilege of three wholesome meals a day for granted. First-hand experience with those struggling for nutritious meals in less well-fed neighborhoods of our own city came later through Girl Scout, school, and church service projects. But inadequate nutrition didn’t really wrench my heart until I lived in Korea for two years in the ’60s (then a third-world country). It dug even deeper into my soul when working more recently in small

villages in Malawi, Africa (one of the poorest countries in the world) on several mission trips. With my own eyes, I witnessed the gnawing struggle for food through seasonal subsistence farming in community gardens—pooling resources, labor and sparse produce. Maize (corn)-based nsima (pronounced see’-ma) is the starchy staple for Malawians. When supply is short, help comes from nearby Zambia—and from around the globe through The World Food Bank—with donated corn, rice, soybeans and more from Spain, Saudi Arabia, Japan, the U.S. and other countries. Seeing this, I understood community gardening on a global scale: A global community of gardeners in spirit—caring, growing and sharing. Growing food locally to feed the hungry globally. Thank you, Mom, for teaching me not to take food for granted. >> W W W. LY N C H B U R G L I V I N G . C O M

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GARDEN

LEFT ABOVE: Mother with baby working in community garden growing corn in Malawi, Africa. TOP: Preparing a community garden for planting in Malawi, Africa. RIGHT: Potatoes harvested from community garden in Malawi, Africa. (Photos by Susan Timmons). FAR RIGHT: Master gardeners work with children in community gardens. (Photo Courtesy of Kevin Camm.) MIDDLE: World War II Victory Garden Poster.

DELIVERY SYSTEMS AND FOOD DESERTS As still practiced in Malawi, community gardens supplied food for people since man evolved from “hunter-gatherers” to “local growers” many millennia ago. Then people gravitated to cities, our agrarian economy in the U.S. gave way to urbanization and industrialization, and more centralized agriculture and large grocery stores became the norm, with notable exceptions such as WWII Victory Gardens— promoted by the government to bring our nation together. A swift post-WWII rise in agribusiness, mass-produced foods, and megagrocery conglomerates, convenience stores, and fast food chains, brings us to today’s efficient and economically viable food delivery system, despite a brief resurgence of community gardens in the U.S in the 1970s inspired by the environmental movement. But there’s a downside: Agribusiness and grocery conglomerates have not solved the problem of dietary deficiencies in lower socio-economic neighborhoods. In fact, they have exacerbated it. Results of a 2011 study by my former colleague in the Economics department of Randolph College, Professor John Abell, and others on Inner City Food Deserts in Lynchburg, suggest that “downtown Lynchburg is indeed a food and pharmaceutical desert.” Grocery chains locate where profits are greatest. Business 101. So, with Lynchburg’s 24 percent poverty rate, many poor residents live in neighborhoods without healthful food markets. I remember when Food Lion pulled the plug on its Bedford Avenue store leaving those without cars looking for bus routes to buy reasonably priced, healthful food. Grocery chains as their food delivery system had failed them. 168

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The Hill City Master Gardener Association offers a series of classes leading to certification as a Master Gardener volunteer, February 7 – April 13. Information and an application are available at www.hcmga.com.

Granted, we have a thriving community farmers’ market, as well as churches, service groups, and charities. We have Daily Bread, Meals on Wheels, Gateway and others to help feed those in need, so we aren’t reminded of poverty and starvation by dramatic images of skeletal people dying on the side of the road. Yet lack of access to healthful food is linked to an insidious illness here. And it kills. People living in food deserts—without neighborhood food markets or transportation to healthful groceries—tend to walk to the corner convenience store to grab fast food, chips, candy and sodas to fuel their day. Then what? Poor nutrition. Obesity. Diabetes. And other social ills.

BUSES AND BEYOND Fortunately, our city has improved bus routes to markets. Other successful efforts include educational school programs and gardens run by the Hill City Master Gardener Association (HCMGA), under the auspices of the Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE). But this still isn’t enough. Buses aren’t necessarily the answer for parents corralling a passel of kids, the disabled struggling to schlep groceries home, or shut-ins; and school programs aren’t putting three square meals on the table for these kids every day. Taking it a step further, the HCMGA established community gardens at the Boys and Girls Club, Jubilee Center, Juvenile Detention Center, and more— so kids can understand where their food comes from, cultivate and harvest a garden, and take fresh produce home. The answer seems to be community gardens—currently defined as “any piece of land gardened by a group of people.” In some earlyadopter, high-density cities, such as San Francisco, a rental garden plot in a premier community garden has a waiting list of many years. Increasing reliance on these gardens is generating enthusiasm and traction as a movement across the U.S, and state land-grant university extension agents are actively promoting them.

GARDEN

RIGHT: "The Veggie Spot" community garden. MIDDLE RIGHT: Community gardens bring neighbors together. FAR RIGHT: Produce from the garden at Bass Elementary School in Lynchburg. (Photos Courtesy of Kevin Camm.)

Our own VCE agent, Kevin Camm, is passionately promoting community gardens across our city. And broader efforts are underway to develop a regional agricultural strategic plan for a systemic stable supply and access to affordable, healthful food delivery systems, especially in low-income neighborhoods.

THE “HOW TO” FOR SUCCESS The “Nuts and Bolts” for establishing successful community gardens include bringing together the right partners, sponsors, funders, budget and neighborhood leaders—and a relentless drive for success. Commitment, cooperation and collaboration are the three critical “C’s”—and we’re seeing our city, VCE, HCMGA, Randolph College, Lynchburg Grows, churches (such as St. John’s Episcopal, Holy Trinity Lutheran and Quaker Memorial Presbyterian), Camp Kum-Ba-Yah, private landowners, and more all coming together to make it work. The HCMGA community garden at Humankind is on the horizon after countless hours of putting these three “C’s” into practice, plus many hours of on-the-ground effort by Master Gardener Richard Givens and other volunteers. This garden will offer everyone in our community a rental plot (San Francisco style) to grow vegetables, fruits, or flowers, and it will serve as an educational center to show people the “how to” as well as provide food preservation demonstrations. Lynchburg’s Department of Parks and Recreation maintains gardens on city properties and a general directory of “What’s in

Get Started Today If your church, club or other organization would like more information on how to establish a community garden, contact Susan Timmons, susantimmons@ verizon.net, to schedule her presentation with PowerPoint slides on Community Gardens. This presentation is a free service on behalf of the Hill City Master Gardener Association Speakers Bureau.

My Neighborhood”—and they just won a statewide award for encouraging healthier eating. Much of the credit goes to cooperative efforts spearheaded by Parks and Rec employees, Howard Covey and Lucy Hudson, who are also Master Gardeners. Land for community gardens may be rented, borrowed or owned. Randolph College maintains an organic community garden with plots on request. In some community gardens, such as The Veggie Spot on Lynchburg’s Daniel’s Hill, neighborhood leaders came together on a vacant lot to garden and share the produce with fellow neighbors. The success of this garden, as all neighborhood gardens, is in the passion and “sweat-equity” of the people who live there. Organizational considerations include agreement on methodology, design, physical layout, membership/labor (including regular watering and weeding), membership rules/fees, and distribution of produce, conflict resolution among participants, neighbors and vandalism. Horticultural decisions must, of course, address water, soil, sunlight, plant choice, security, pest control and all the other factors any garden requires.

THE SPIRIT OF COMMUNITY In addition to feeding the needy, community gardens serve a multitude of purposes, including educational, entrepreneurial, job training and therapy. The communal garden at the Pearson Cancer Center provides focus and hope for the future for patients and their families. The Awareness Garden provides scholarships to assist students whose lives have been impacted by cancer or >>

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GARDEN

LEFT: Community garden at Lynchburg Grows. MIDDLE: Compactly placed raised beds are preferred for community gardens. RIGHT: Student proud of produce from the garden at Bass Elelmentary School in Lynchburg. (Photos courtesty of Kevin Camm.)

who plan to work in a cancer-related field. And Lynchburg Grows has given much to our community through remarkably successful entrepreneurial and training programs for youth, disabled and lowincome residents; running a food co-op; sending a food truck— or “Veggie Van”—out to take produce to food deserts and more. The communal garden behind our new home in a condominium at The Woodstock is a peaceful sanctuary for residents to read a book, breathe fresh air and enjoy a sunny day, or give a pet dog some outdoor time. As a newcomer, I look forward to discovering what’s blooming

this spring and getting to know my neighbors as we prepare to share our communal garden for Garden Day in Lynchburg on April 25th. Community gardens are about proven food delivery systems, improving health, developing productive use of eyesore vacant lots or otherwise underutilized land, and building community spirit. They can be a global effort to feed the starving or a local effort to bring fresh and nutritious produce to our neighbors—or a flower garden to attract pollinators and feed our souls. They’re about people coming together to take care of each other. It’s good to return to the old-fashioned way of doing things of my childhood.

Meet the Gardener Susan Timmons served in the 1970s as Virginia’s first Environmental Impact Statement Coordinator, then Assistant Administrator and Acting Administrator of Virginia’s Council on the Environment and editor of The State of Virginia’s Environment. During that time she also served on the Board of Directors of the National Association of Environmental Professionals and received the National Wildlife Federation’s Award for Environmental Communications. More recently, she worked in higher education and nonprofit management and, in retirement, she serves as a member of the Speakers Bureau of the Hill City Master Gardeners Association with a series of talks on “Gardens of the World.”

CoNTEST prESENTEd BY:

Announcing the first ever Lynchburg Living’s Cutest Baby Contest!

2017

Laurissa

Entries accepted from Jan. 1 – Feb. 28, 2017*. 10 winners will be determined by panel of judges and announced via our website and facebook page. Final winner voted on by readers via contest website. Overall winner will be featured in the May/June issue of Lynchburg Living VA Magazine and receive a full-page photo. Runner-ups will all receive a digital faux Lynchburg Living Magazine “Cutest Baby“ cover with their baby’s image and name featured in LynchburgLiving.com’s “Cutest Baby Contest” photo gallery. *each entry costs $30.

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LYNCHBURG LIVING

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

LynchburgLiving.com

EVENTS

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017 JANUARY 6 First Friday at Downtown and Rivermont

Lynchburg 5 – 8 p.m.

Free to the general public. Ride the trolley.

JANUARY 7 Beale Treasure Mystery Theater

Peaks of Otter Winery, Bedford

6 – 9 p.m. Find clues, question others and solve the crime. Tickets: $45.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

JANUARY 28 Bride of the Year Luncheon Oakwood Country Club, Lynchburg 12 – 2 p.m. Come to enter for your chance to win a magazine feature in Central Virginia Bridal Guide. Enjoy a delicious lunch, sample wedding cakes and décor provided by the area’s best wedding caterers and florists, and tour a one of a kind wedding venue, Oakwood Country Club. Tickets at vabridal.com.

FEBRUARY 9

JANUARY 29

FEBRUARY 18

JANUARY 12 Art Talks

Academy Center of the Arts, Lynchburg 5 – 6 p.m.

Hear from the Academy’s network of artists.

JANUARY 14 Cookiefest 2017

Heritage United Methodist Church, Lynchburg

11 a.m. – 4 p.m. To Benefit Camp Sacajawea. Admission: $5/person.

JANUARY 18 Fantastic Faraoni Film Festival: Creature from the Black Lagoon

Riverviews Artspace, Lynchburg 7:30 p.m.

JANUARY 20 What Happened, Miss Simone? Screening and Discussion

Riverviews Artspace, Lynchburg 7 p.m.

JANUARY 21 Sangria Saturday

Lazy Days Winery, Amherst 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

The Soul Bowl-a-Thon

AMF Lynchburg Lanes

9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Enjoy disco music and dress in your best 70s apparel. Benefits the United Way of Central Virginia. Register at unitedwaycv.org.

JANUARY 27-28 Create Lynchburg

Academy Center of the Arts, Lynchburg

Hosted by the Office of Economic Development, the Small Business Development Center and the Academy to support arts & entrepreneurship through a series of workshops.Tickets and information: academycenter.org or call 434-846-TIXX

Sewing Workshop – Aprons

Vector Space 402 5th St., Lynchburg 1 – 4 p.m.

JANUARY 30 “116”

Pannell Gallery, Sweet Briar College

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. This exhibition will feature 116 artifacts and artworks that tell the story of Sweet Briar College — 116 objects for 116 years. On view through March 26.

FEBRUARY 2 Frequent Flyers

Babcock Fine Arts Center, Sweet Briar College

7:30 p.m. Frequent Flyers Aerial Dance performers blend aerial work seamlessly with dance.

FEBRUARY 3 First Friday at Downtown and Rivermont

Lynchburg

Art Talks

Academy Center of the Arts, Lynchburg

5 – 6 p.m. Hear from the Academy’s network of artists.

FEBRUARY 17-18 “Doublewide Texas”

Renaissance Theatre, Lynchburg

A hilarious, fast-paced comedy written by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten. Buy tickets at Etix.com. Lynchburg’s Music and Arts Party

1200 Church St., Lynchburg

8:30 p.m. Featuring The Revelators Tour with Josh Garrels and John Mark McMillan. Ticket prices and availability at LynchburgsParty.com.

FEBRUARY 19 Pairapalooza Lynchburg

Academy Center of the Arts

2 p.m. Best local chefs and wineries provide the ultimate guide in food/wine pairing.

FEBRUARY 22 “Nat Turner’s Bones: Reassembling an American Rebel”

Jones Memorial Library, Lynchburg

5 p.m. Dr. Kelley Fanto Deetz will discuss the archaeological search for the remains of Virginia slave Nat Turner. Organized by Old City Cemetery.

5 – 8 p.m. Free to the general public. Ride the trolley.

FEBRUARY 24-26

FEBRUARY 4

Renaissance Theatre, Lynchburg

Sangria Saturday

Lazy Days Winery, Amherst 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

FEBRUARY 5 Janet Lowrey Gager Community Concert

Memorial Chapel, Sweet Briar College

3 p.m. Features classical music from around the world performed by SBC faculty/students and guest artists.

“Doublewide Texas” A hilarious, fast-paced comedy written by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten. Buy tickets at Etix.com.

FEBRUARY 25 Red Carpet Gala for United Way

Academy Center of the Arts, Lynchburg 5 – 11 p.m. Tickets at unitedwayCV.org.

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EVENTS

3rd Annual

Giving Back Awards Reception A career in the nonprofit world takes a special person—someone who dedicates their life to help, improve and grow our community. To give these individuals some deserved recognition, Lynchburg Living held a ceremony for the 3rd Annual Giving Back Awards on November 3, 2016, at Tresca on 8th. Representatives of the top 25 nonprofits attended. The event was sponsored by Piedmont Eye Center, Tresca on 8th and Peakland Catering Company. See the full list of the Top 25 nonprofits at www.lynchburgliving.com!