West End's Best

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5 January/February 2014

Barnes & Diehl, p.c.

PROFILE: Melissa s. VanZile

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Centre Court – Suite A9401 Courthouse RoadChesterfield, VA 23832Ph: 804.796.1000 Fax: 804.796.1730

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Melissa grew up in Hanover County, Virginia. She went on to attend the University of Mary Washington. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Melissa went to the University of Richmond’s School of Law where she was graduated in 2004.

Melissa has been practicing exclusively in the area of family law since 2004. She has represented cli-ents in the Court of Appeals, Circuit Courts and Juvenile Domestic Relations Courts. She handles all family law matters including spousal support, child support, custody and visitation, complex property distribution, divorce, property settle-ment agreements and prenuptial agreements.

Melissa is a strong advocate for her clients inside and out of the court room. She has been a writer and lecturer on a variety of family law issues and is also active in her community. Melissa serves as Secretary on the board for the Metro Richmond Women’s Bar Association, is a member of the Innsbrook Rotary Club, and is a board member for St. Joseph’s Villa Flagler Home. She has been voted a Virginia Super Lawyers Rising Star by Virginia Super Lawyer’s Magazine and was voted a Virginia Super Lawyer’s Top Attorney in Family law in 2013. She has also been included in the Virginia Business Legal Elite.

Melissa lives in Glen Allen, Virginia with her hus-band and two daughters.

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Contents

Features

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014

4 3 . D E L I G H T F U L WAY S T O D E - S T R E S SBy Tammie Wer s i nge r

4 6 . F I N D Y O U R N E W E X E R C I S E G R O O V E T H I S N E W Y E A RBy Amy R . Conno l l y

4 9 . R E J U V E N A T I N G R E S O R T SBy G inge r War de r

M Y T O W NReady, Set , Create

Maggie Lena Walker

Senior L iv ing

Pinnacle P lanning

12

14

16

18

24

26

30

32

36

38

40

20

20

55

58

L I F E S T Y L EBaxter Perkinson and Assoc iatesDr. Niamtu

D E S I G NCreate a Des ign Calendar

Maintain Your Greenthumb

F L AV O RScoop Du Jour

In Search Of . . .Comfort Foods

No Need to Travel FarBonchon

E V E N T C A L E N D A R

R I V E R C I T YBacks tagePositive No

Rais ing the BarRomantic Drinks

RVAhhh. . .Spectacular Day Spas

Departments

West End's Best 9

Front of the Book

10 January/February 2014 www.richmondnavigator.com


A PUBLICATION OF

ALL ARTICLES AND CONTENTS OF THIS MAGAZINE ARE NOT NECESSARILY THE OPINIONS OR THOUGHTS

OF WEST END’S BEST MAGAZINE, ADVERTISING CONCEPTS, INC OR THE PUBLISHER

West End’s Best Magazine is

published bimonthly by Advertising Concepts, Inc.,

6301 Harbourside Drive, Suite 100

Midlothian, VA 23112 • (804) 639-9994

RichmondNavigator.comFacebook.com/RichmondNavigator

Email us: [email protected].

All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHERWilliam J. Davis, Jr.

VICE-PRESIDENT/PUBLISHERCheryl T. Davis

ASSISTANT PUBLISHERJohn Corbett

MANAGING EDITORGinger Warder

CREATIVE SERVICES DIRECTORJoseph Wharton

ART DIRECTORTrey Tyler

ADVERTISING CONSULTANTSJared DavisAnn Small

DISTRIBUTION MANAGERJustin Warner

PHOTOGRAPHERSTim Hill, Liz Reese,

Robert Thomas,Zach Wingold

CONTRIBUTORSTammie Wersinger, Christine Stoddard,

Tammy Brackett, Steve Cook, Amy R. Connolly,Erin Pittman, Vicki O'Neal, Jack Trammel,

Davy Jones, G. Carl Mahler, Jr.

ABOUT OUR COVER

Just a short trip west of Richmond, you can learn more about Keswick Hall and Virginia's best resorts in our travel feature on page 49.Photo Courtesy of Keswick Hall.

Editor's Letter

Starting the New Year Right!

Dear readers,

A new year is all about trying new things or doing things different-

ly, and mine has kicked off with a new job as the editor of this maga-

zine. For me, winter is a time of renewal…for sitting in front of a cozy

fire with a cup of cocoa and planning my spring garden or just taking

an hour to read my favorite book.

Every year, we make resolutions to get our bodies and our homes

in tip-top shape, to stress less and enjoy life more and to make a dif-

ference in our communities. This issue is all about looking and feel-

ing good without feeling like you’re being deprived of life’s pleasures

in the process.

We’ve included new and entertaining ways to exercise, as well as tips

for some well-deserved pampering both at home and at Richmond’s

best spas. Our design expert, Vicki O’Neal, put together an annual cal-

endar that you’ll want to save, with tips for the best times of the year to

work on your projects at home. We’ve also featured some of Virginia’s

most luxurious resorts so you can take advantage of the long holiday

weekends during the winter months.

And, of course, we can’t really talk about feeling good with-

out talking about food. Gone are the days when healthy eating

meant a steady diet of cottage cheese and celery sticks. We know

you have busy schedules, so we’ve

given you a great roundup of

neighborhood restaurants.

I look forward to hearing from

you in the coming months and wish

you all a happy and healthy year!

Ginger [email protected]

West End's Best 11

My Town


Are you living with a pint-size Picasso or a diminutive diva? Yes, parents, you know who you are. While your neighbors’

kids are getting a kick out of soccer or begging for ballet shoes, your little ones have covered the fridge with drawings and created a full drum kit from your Tupperware.

You know there’s an interest in art or music. But when is the right time to move beyond the “just for fun” sessions and into serious lessons?

Area leaders of arts programs offer the following advice for gauging children’s readiness for art and music lessons.

Look for focus. Your child will show you when the art project or the music has become more important than anything else. Jessica Boyland, who runs the children’s art programs at Art Works in Manchester, says the students who are really engaged are easy to spot. “Some are there for the social aspects, but then others are more concentrated on the project,” she says.

“As a parent, you know when your child can sit down and concen-trate,” adds Sue Brown, director of the Center for Creative Arts in Glen Allen. “The primary thing is intrinsic motivation. The child has ex-pressed interest and a desire to improve.”

It’s never too early; it’s never too late. Lynnelle Ediger, artistic direc-tor of the Academy of Music and the American Youth Harp Ensemble, based in Richmond’s West End, points out that children as young as 2 can develop concrete skills in music through choirs and scaled-down instruments. Boyland, too, has seen very young artists absorb concepts and art history as they create. On the other hand, Brown cautions that some early starts might be a sign of parental pressure. “Our society is so competitive, and everything starts so early,” she says, emphasizing that lessons must come from the child’s interest, not the parent’s. “Remember that you’re never too old to start.”

Choose an instructor carefully. It might take a while to find a good student-teacher match, but it’s important. “Teaching younger students is a specific gift,” states Ediger. Brown recommends looking for someone who is professionally trained, patient and nurturing, and who uses posi-tive motivational techniques. Talk with the instructor and sit in on some trial lessons.

Supplement a teacher with a champion. Boyland suggests looking for a mentor among your family and friends. Having an artistic aunt, older cousin or adult friend who will take a child to art galleries or concerts can be as important as an instructor in forming a lifelong bond with the arts.

Finally, remember that sometimes things change. A child who still shows interest but starts to balk at going to lessons may need a new in-structor. One who starts out playing piano might want to shift to violin. Maintain flexibility and don’t push. “If it’s a stressful interaction, then it’s not the right time,” says Brown. “Art and music lessons should not be one more article of contention within the family.” n

Ready, Set, Create!

When is it t ime for art and music lessons?B y J o d y R a t h g e b

If it’s a stressful interaction, then it’s not the right time, Art and music lessons should not be one more article of contention within the family.”

Photos courtesy of Center for Creative Arts in Glen Allen and the Academy of Music and the American Youth Harp Ensemble.

“

www.richmondnavigator.com West End's Best 13

My Town


“

Maggie Lena Walker

A Richmond Role ModelB y J a c k T r a m m e l

Perhaps one of the most influential, and underrated, of Richmond’s African American residents is Maggie Lena

Walker, who was born in 1864 during Richmond’s final years as the Confederate capital.

Founded by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, Black History Month celebrates not only African American culture, but also the leaders and ground-breaking achievements of Afri-can Americans throughout the country. Richmond is home to several of these amazing Americans including Douglas Wilder, the first African American governor in the United States and Arthur Ashe, the first Afri-can American tennis player to win the singles title at Wimbledon.

While not as well known, Maggie Walker, with her leadership skills and financial acumen, broke not only racial barriers, but also inspired generations of women in the business world.

Walker grew up in post-war Richmond, and was exposed to a host of complicated social problems, ranging from widespread poverty to a smoldering race conflict that the end of the war and legal emancipation had failed to eradicate. As a teenager with a strong sense of social jus-tice, she joined the local branch of the Independent Order of St. Luke (IOSL), a non-profit organization that fostered self-reliance and helped those who were having difficulty with financial or health issues. Walker’s leadership skills were immediately recognized, and she quickly earned increasing responsibilities, culminating with her rise to national leader-ship as Right Worthy Grand Secretary of the IOSL in 1899 – a post she held until her death.

In 1903, she established the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank, becom-ing the first woman to charter a bank in the U.S. and the first African American female to become a bank president. She was well aware that one inherent advantage more affluent communities enjoyed was a safe and stable infrastructure for borrowing money, starting businesses, and saving for the future.

“The St. Luke Penny Savings Bank issued 625 mortgages to black families in its first years of operation, remarkable for a time when it was extremely difficult for African Americans to receive mortgages from other banks,” according to the NPS.

Her original bank became the Consolidated Bank and Trust, and along with its successors, operated through 2009, bringing financial op-portunity and education to the community and earning Jackson Ward the nickname, “Harlem of the South”.

Walker’s home in Jackson Ward is a national tourist attraction, operated by the National Park Service. Furnished with many original family items, related artifacts and furniture, the home and guided tour include an exhibition hall and a brief biographical film. Visitors can also take a self-guided walking tour through the historic Jackson Ward neighborhood.

“Maggie Walker's lifetime of work to empower women and African Americans was transformational for her community and our nation, and inspirational not only in her time but in ours,” says Beth Stern of the NPS. “It is a pleasure for us to be able to share her remarkable story with our visitors.”

For more information, visit www.nps.gov/mawa. n

Maggie Walker's lifetime of work to empower women and African Americans was transformational for her community and our nation, and inspirational not only in her time but in ours" — Beth Stern

Photos courtesy of the National Park Service.


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West End's Best 15

My Town


Who doesn’t want great gams? Firm up your calves, thighs and glutes while relishing a great view, learning some

Richmond history or window-shopping while you walk. According to the Mayo Clinic, a daily brisk walk can help you trim your waistline, maintain a healthy weight, prevent or manage conditions like heart dis-ease, high blood pressure and diabetes, strengthen bone, as well as im-prove balance and coordination.

To turn your daily stroll into a fitness routine, you need the appropri-ate gear: choose comfortable shoes with good arch support and thick, flexible soles, and if you walk at night, wear reflective tape and bright col-ors. You’ll also need to walk properly and briskly to maximize the health benefits of your exercise. Good posture is important: walk with your head up and your back straight, but relax your neck and shoulders, and swing your arms freely with a slight bend in your elbows. Walk slowly for the first 10 minutes to warm up and the last 10 minutes to cool down.

Here are a few ideas for manageable and interesting fitness walks:Bellevue: This quiet Northside neighborhood may be small, but its

adorable 1930s architecture, sidewalks, tree-lined streets and abun-dant street lamps make it highly walkable by day or night. Brook Road bounds Bellevue to the east, with Hermitage Road to the west, West-brook Avenue to the north, and West Laburnum Avenue to the south. Walk the length of the neighborhood for a mile’s worth of steps or start off slower by walking its width—about half a mile. With all the little streets and alleyways, more intrepid walkers have infinite choices for tallying their miles.

Senior Living

Walk Your Way to a Healthy WeightB y C h r i s t i n e S t o d d a r d

Canal Walk: At 14th and Dock streets in Shockoe Bottom, you’ll find the entrance to the 1.25 miles of the paved walkway known as Canal Walk, which meanders along the banks of the James River and Kanawha Canal. Explore four centuries of Richmond history with special medal-lions and exhibits along the way. If you walk the whole stretch, you’ll find yourself by the Haxall Canal at Brown’s Island, which is a great place to take a breather. If you’re in an adventurous mood or craving more history lessons, walk up to the State Capitol Grounds afterwards. From Haxall to Capitol Square on S. 9th Street is .7 miles, about a 15- to 20-minute walk for the fit senior.

Hollywood Cemetery: If a hike along the James River Park System seems just a bit too treacherous, walking Hollywood’s smooth, paved pathways still ensures a gorgeous river view and history to boot. Civil War buffs will enjoy the Confederate memorial: you can also visit the grave site of Jefferson Davis, the former president of the Confederacy, or of the 28 Civil War generals buried here. Visit the grave sites of former presidents James Monroe and John Tyler, as well as those of Richmond notables including Lewis Ginter. The cemetery features rolling hills, well-manicured lawns and – for you jogging junkies – occupies 135 acres.

Shopping Malls: While they may not be the most exciting locations, shopping malls offer you a car-free zone with accessible water fountains, restrooms and an indoor level walkway during inclement weather. Visit at off-peak shopping times to avoid pushing through large crowds. And, you can up the challenge factor by wearing ankle weights. n

A view of the Canal Walk at 14th and Dock streets in Shockoe Bottom.

A view of the Confederate Memorial from Hollywood Cemetery.(Photos Courtesy of Richmond Region Tourism).


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My Town


Pinnacle Planning

The Retirement Crisis in AmericaB y G . C a r l M a h l e r, J r.

We are on the verge of a retirement crisis never seen in the history of the world. It has been reported that the aver-

age 401(k) Plan balance for 65 year-olds is $25,000. Other supposedly tuned-in experts suggest the number is closer to $100,000, but consider-ing that today’s retiree might live 20 to 30 years in retirement and needs to live off the earnings generated by that, either number is a joke.

Americans today are aware that corporate pensions have been virtu-ally eliminated and many of those that have been paying their retirees are woefully underfunded. Some may ultimately close in the future, leaving pensioners out in the cold and many with nothing more than Social Se-curity – you know, that federally mandated program that may be broke itself in the not too distant future.

The signs of the coming crisis are all around us. Look who’s bagging your groceries. Do you have a teenager who’s been looking for summer work? Many of those jobs have been taken over by retirees who had to go back to work to supplement their income or qualify for health insurance. It probably isn’t the picture they had in their mind for their retirement.

Many current workers at some point realize they can never retire. The problem is, of course, they will ultimately become too frail to work.

There are some who have a number of years left before retirement and are trying to save towards that goal. But, to add to the problem, many feel confused about how and where to invest, because the stock market has let them down in the past, so where do you turn?

With 10,000 baby boomers retiring daily, this whole thing is hap-pening now and escalating for decades to come, you would think those in Washington would be working diligently on our behalves to find so-lutions. Instead, conservatives are trying to pull back entitlements and liberals refuse to acknowledge a problem exists.

For those of you who still have some time left to prepare, get your head out of the sand and get to work. To get started go to my company website: www.pinnaclegroup.net and click on my webcast about time and investing. If we can help, call. We have done this for many years and have done it well, but do get professional help. n

G . C a r l M a h l e r, J r. i s a C e r t i f i e d F i n a n c i a l P l a n n e r ® . S e c u r i t i e s o f f e r e d t h r o u g h R a y m o n d J a m e s F i n a n c i a l S e r v i c e s , I n c . M e m b e r F I N R A / S I P C . A n y o p i n i o n s a r e t h o s e o f G . C a r l M a h l e r, J r. a n d n o t n e c e s s a r i l y t h o s e o f R J F S o r R a y m o n d J a m e s . A n y i n -f o r m a t i o n i s n o t a c o m p l e t e s u m m a r y o r s t a t e m e n t o f a l l a v a i l a b l e d a t a n e c e s s a r y f o r

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My name is Deborah Keller, and even though I'll be 60 on my next birthday, I feel like I'm 30. I wanted my face to

look younger too, so I finally decided to go to Dr. Joe Niamtu for a complete “overhaul.” I had a facelift, necklift, upper and lower eye reju-venation, cheek and chin implant, and a laser peel. Sounds like a lot, I know, but it was great to get everything done at once, and the recovery was easier than I expected.

I chose Dr. Niamtu because all he does is facial surgery. And lots of

it. That kind of experience really put my mind at ease. On top of that, he is a wonderful person who gives so much back to the community. I knew the moment I met him that I was in the right place. His facilities are state of the art, and his staff are the best.

I would encourage anyone considering facial surgery to consult with Dr. Niamtu. I would do it again in a heartbeat!

For more information on starting the new year with a new look, call Dr. Joe Niamtu at 934-FACE (3223) or go to lovethatface.com. Scan the QR code to the left to see Deborah’s recovery progress on youtube! n

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Start the New Year Right

People come in all shapes and sizes, and so do teeth and faces. Sometimes though, nature doesn’t provide a perfectly

matched pair; that is, sometimes the teeth that nature provides don’t show off the face as well as we’d like.

If that's how you feel about your smile, ask us about custom design-ing a smile that's right for you.

A combination of cosmetic bonding, porcelain veneers, orthodon-tics, crowns, or enamel reshaping might just add up to a smile you’ll want to show more often.

We’re all conscious of how others see us and how our physi-cal features complement each other. Your height, for example, can make a difference in which teeth get a high profile. If you’re short, your lower front teeth get the spotlight, since they’re seen from above. Taller folks need to be aware of the appearance of their upper front teeth, since they’re seen from slightly below. If front teeth are crooked, worn, chipped, or discolored—even on the biting edges—we may be able to minimize these negative features and accentuate the strengths of your smile.

Our experience in designing attention-grabbing smiles can show you it’s often desirable to deemphasize a long face by flattening the smile line, or to balance out a rounder, wider face by lengthening front teeth.

Every person is unique, and so is every smile. Our office team will work with you to achieve a satisfying harmony between your face and your smile.

Redesigning your smile requires a lot of discussion, questions, sug-gestions—and time. It’s your smile, so we’ll take the time to recom-mend all the options we feel are right for your improved appearance, and the time to listen to you—the most important member of our “smile-design team.”

Does this sound like the kind of individual attention you’re looking for? Call one of our eleven locations and schedule a consultation. Let us tell you how we can create a beautiful smile especially for you! n

Creating Healthy Smiles For YouBegin Your Brand New Year with a Brand New Look

Before After

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11577 W. Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23233804.353.1200 | www.allenandallen.com

West End's Best 21


Mexico RestaurantPart of the community for 23 years, Mexico Restaurant offers a great menu selection with something for everyone in your family. Using the freshest ingredients to cook your favorite dishes so you can experi-ence great food, it’s no wonder this is Richmond’s award-winning Mexican restaurant.10321 West Broad Street559-8126 | mexico-restaurant.com

HondosHondos offers the best of both worlds with its prime selection of steak and seafood. Featuring a vari-ety of cuts like Cowboy Cut Ribeye, Filet Mignon, and Kansas City Strip, Hondos also has seafood choices such as twin South African Lobster Tails and Tuna Mignon.4120-B Cox Road(804) 968-4323www.hondosprime.com

Old Original BookbindersLocated in historic Tobacco Row in downtown Richmond, this locally fami-ly owned steak and seafood restaurant is unique to Richmond. With excep-tional food and service, Bookbinder's is the perfect place to celebrate that special occasion!2306 East Cary Street | 643-6900bookbindersrichmond.com

Legend Brewing CompanyCentral Virginia's oldest micro-brewery is ready to welcome spring on their huge patio over-looking the James River and the downtown skyline. Stop by on a Friday in March for Firkin Friday, when they will tap a firkin to pour in the pub until it's empty.321 W. 7th Street | 232-3446legendbrewing.com

Pesce & VinoThis authentic Italian restaurant specializes in one-of-a-kind dishes made entirely from scratch. Enjoy any of their pasta, seafood and steak dishes in a unique and inviting atmosphere.8801 Three Chopt Road(804) 303-2769www.facebook.com/PesceVinoRistoranteItaliano

Deep Run RoadhouseDeep Run Roadhouse is excited to bring its smoky barbecue and comfort foods to the West End. Take the night off and stop by to pick up a Family Pack that is sure to please everyone!12379 Gayton Road | 740-6301deeprunroadhouse.com

The Franklin Inn. Photo Courtesy of Corey Daniels.

Flavor

West End's Best 23

Flavor


Scoop Du Jour

Richmond Foodies Unite!B y Ta m m y B r a c k e t t

out has been lost. People are focused on cell phones and texting, not din-ing,” says co-owner David Bess. “The nice thing about wonderful food is that it brings people together. Our small, medium and large plate options are fun to taste and share among friends.” Society American Bistro serves lunch and dinner and is open late night as Society Social Club. “For Val-entines, we’re planning a prix fixe menu, featuring four courses for $45,” says Bess. For fabulous food in a cool and casual atmosphere, check out Society American Bistro, www.societyrva.com or call (804) 648-5100.

Lickinghole Creek Craft Brewery is now open in Goochland. The brewery – situated on 220 acres of farm land owned by Sean-Thomas Pumphrey and his wife, Lisa – is built in the style of a Virginia horse barn. “We’re the only brewery that I know of in Central Virginia that operates on a working farm,” explains Sean-Thomas, who also serves as brewery manager. “For our Estate Series, we grow hops, pumpkins, barley and various other herbs and spices.” Lickinghole Creek Craft Brewery releases new beers seasonally and has a tasting room open to the public on Fridays and Saturdays. “We’re working on our first big beer release in our Barrel Series,” Sean-Thomas says. “A stout we’re calling The Enlightened Despot…we’re releasing it in early March. It’s a Russian Imperial Stout aged in 15-year-old Pappy Van Winkle Barrels.” For more information, visit www.lickingholecreek.com or call (804) 314-4380.

R ichmond’s biggest little barbeque restaurant, Bigs BBQ has opened a second location right across the street from

Virginia Commonwealth University’s Police Department at 931 Grace St. Owner Brian Daigneault says Bigs BBQ had scouted a second loca-tion since opening their original store last year. “We finally found a loca-tion close to VCU with the right rent and spent three and a half months renovating the space.” The VCU Bigs BBQ location features the same great menu with mindful additions for the college crowd. “We’re featur-ing sharable menu options,” explains Diagneault. “Items like sharable quesadillas with pulled pork and our loaded fries with cheese, pulled pork or beef brisket are really popular with students on a budget.” Whether you’re a student or not, Bigs BBQ’s original location in the Chesterfield Meadows Shopping Center and its new VCU location are sure to please. Check them out at www.bigsBBQVa.com

Fans of Nacho Mama's in Carytown will be excited to know that a new location opened recently in the Clarion Hotel at 3207 N. Boule-vard. The new restaurant has an expanded menu that includes many of your favorites from the Carytown store including a vast array of nachos, burritos and tacos, as well as a new American fusion menu with ribeye steaks, crabcakes, and salmon. Check out www.nachomamasva.com or call (804) 359-9441 for more information.

Society American Bistro is open in Shockoe Bottom at 1421 East Cary St. Society focuses on modern American food served as on small, medium and large plates, perfect for sharing. “The whole point of dining

Photo courtesy of Society American Bistro

Photo courtesy of Lickinghole Creek Craft Brewery


The Lair is open at 17 West Main St across from The Jefferson Hotel and two blocks from the now-defunct Pearlies. A natural expansion of the popular Richmond food truck, Chupa-cabra, The Lair features an all-day breakfast menu and delivers Tex-Mex cuisine locally. More than a restaurant, The Lair supports the arts and has a gallery, stage and dance floor. "We've hosted art and fashion events, comedy shows and are hosting local bands," explains co-owner Chris Mullenix. "We're very involved in the community and support FeedRVA.org and other philanthropic organi-zations. We source food locally. We want to be known as a responsible, helpful community member as well as an excellent place to have a bite and hang out." Check out The Lair by vis-iting www.thelairrva.com or by calling (804) 562-8174. nRestaurant tips? Email Tammy Brackett:[email protected].

richmond

Listed Under:

“Best Chicken Wings in the Country” - 2012, February 5. CNN

A Delicious, New and Exciting Kind of Chicken

8026 WEST BROAD ST. | HENRICO, VA 23294804-716-2029 WWW.BONCHON.COM

2013, yelp.com

Nacho Mama's has a new menu to offer its patrons. Pictured here and below. Photos by Robert Thomas.

West End's Best 25

Flavor


1. Bourbon Cinnamon ApplesBuz and Ned’s Real BarbequeYou’ve heard the old saying about “an apple a day keeping the

doctor away” so feel free to enjoy these warm cinnamon and

bourbon-flavored apples with your favorite barbeque dish or

take some home and top them with ice cream for dessert.

Visit www.buzandneds.com for all locations.

8205 W. Broad St. | (804) 346-4227

2. Mac ‘n CheeseComfort This southern-style macaroni and cheese is cooked to perfec-

tion with a crunchy crust and gooey, cheesy center. Pictured

here with Comfort's special fried green tomatoes.

www.comfortrva.com

200 W. Broad St. | (804) 780-0004

3. CatfishMama J’s KitchenFor perfectly fried catfish that tastes like it jumped from the

river into your mama’s skillet, this is the place to go. Pictured

below with Mama J's Kitchen's sides of macaroni and cheese

and fresh greens.

www.mamajskitchen.com

415 N. 1st St. | (804) 225-7449

1

In Search Of...

Comfort FoodB y G i n g e r W a r d e r

1

2 3

F r o m c h i l d h o o d m e m o r i e s t o g u i l t y p l e a s u r e s , o u r f a v o r i t e

c o m f o r t f o o d s s o o t h e b o t h t h e s t o m a c h a n d t h e s o u l .

I n d u l g e y o u r c r a v i n g a t t h e s e f r i e n d l y n e i g h b o r h o o d e a t e r i e s !

R o b e r t T h o m a s

Z a c h W i n g o l d R o b e r t T h o m a s


....and lots of it!

WWW.989LIBERTY.COM

West End's Best 27


Flavor

In Search Of...Comfort Food (continued)

4. Pot RoastIron HorseThe Iron Horse pot roast is a very slowly braised boneless

short rib. It is an all natural product from Harris Ranch and

is served with whipped potatoes, roasted carrots & parsnips,

and a brandy-veal reduction.

www.ironhorserestaurant.com

100 S Railroad Ave, Ashland, VA 23005

(804) 752-6410

5. Fried ChickenTanglewood OrdinaryThere’s nothing ordinary about this fried chicken – crunchy

on the outside and juicy on the inside – served family-style

with your choice of sides to share.

www.ordinary.com

2210 River Rd W, Maidens, VA 23102

(804) 556-3284

6. Steak and Blue Cheese PieProper Pie CompanyEverything tastes great wrapped in a flaky crust and this

upscale steak and blue cheese version of the classic pot pie is

a winner.

www.facebook.com/ProperPieCo

2505 E Broad St #100

(804) 343-7437

6

4

5

T i m H i l l

P h o t o C o u r t e s y o f Ta n g l e w o o d O r d i n a r y P h o t o C o u r t e s y o f P r o p e r P i e C o .

Flavor


It was almost two years ago when this brother-sister pair decided they had to find out what all the fuss was

about. They heard stories of diners driving hundreds of miles and waiting for hours just to get a taste of Bonchon’s award-winning chicken.

“I wondered, how good could it possibly be?” Erica Huynh says. “Then I had a bite and it totally changed everything. I knew Rich-mond needed this.”

Within months, the Huynh siblings set the wheels in motion to bring Bonchon to their hometown. They quit their jobs – she was in sales at a bank and he was a culinarian at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla. – and trained for months in Boston and New York City to open the Henrico location of Bonchon in May. Today, the famous lightly-fried and flavorful chicken, sumptuous noodle dishes and unique Korean fare are slowly but surely enriching palates in Richmond.

The menu favorite, and the reason why Bonchon fans travel long dis-tances, is the chicken. In wings, drumsticks or strips, the chicken has a delicate and crispy crunch without being greasy or heavy. All of Bonchon’s famous chicken pieces are double fried and hand brushed with either of the Bonchon exclusive sauces – soy garlic or hot.

“It’s the only food that appeals to all five of your senses. You can hear the crunch, taste and smell the savory sauces, touch the light crispiness and see the smooth coating,” Huynh explains.

In addition, the menu has other offerings that give local diners a rare peek into Asian-fusion cuisine. For the adventurous eater, the Bibimbob is a sizzling bowl of rice and Korean vegetables served with a raw egg on top. Diners must stir in the egg to complete the meal. For those wanting a milder experience, the Japchae is a stir-fried blend of clear glass noodles, tender beef and vegetables.

Huynh and her brothers were raised in a family that understood the importance of quality ingredients, friendly service and an excep-tional dining experience.

Even before Bonchon was set to open, local diners were thrilled to see the restaurant’s sign and pleasantly surprised by the spacious dining room and full bar. One step inside this popular restaurant and it’s easy to see the Asian influences. The eatery has clean lines with ample seating that make the dining experience feel modern and comfortable.

Those who know Bonchon chicken know that it will change the way you think of fried chicken.

“As soon as you have your first bite, you’re addicted,” she adds. “You just can’t stop eating it.” n

www.bonchon.com8026 W. Broad St., Suite A, HenricoPhone: (804) 716-2029.

No Need to Travel Far

Bonchon Brings its Chicken to RichmondB y A m y R . C o n n o l l y


Taste of the MenuBonchon’s varied Asian menu offers a taste of Korean food with some Japanese influences. Erica Huynh, who co-owns the restaurant with her brother Dario, said there are several menu selections that are considered local favorites:

Potstickers

Fried pork and chive dumplings served with Bonchon’s exclusive

soy garlic or hot sauce.

TteokbokkiStir-fried fish and rice cakes in a spicy Korean sauce (pictured below).

Bonchon Chicken Lightly fried and carefully

brushed with either soy garlic

or hot sauce. Each chicken dish

is served with a side of pickled

radish as a palate cleanser

(pictured to the left).

Crispy Salmon Salad A unique flair of sushi with avocado,

crabmeat, cucumber, tobiko, tempura

and mayo wrapped in seared salmon.

Photos courtesy of Bonchon Restaurant.

West End's Best 31


Events S I G N S O F P R O T E S T : P H O T O G R A P H S F R O M T H E C I V I L R I G H T S E R A V i r g in i a Museum o f F i ne A r t sJanua r y 11 - Augus t 3 , 2014

This exhibit portrays the Civil Rights movement through photographs of protest signs, significant events, and of the movement’s leaders including Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, and Stokely Carmichael.Vmfa.State.Us

B O O S T !Sc ience Museum of V i rg in iaPe rmanen t Exh ib i t i on

This permanent exhibition will boost your creativity, flexibility, memory, and strength through 25 challenges and you can download a free app to track your progress.Smv.org

T H E L O V E T O U RMaymont MansionFeb rua r y 14 & 15

Costumed interpreters relate Victorian love stories and the courting customs of the era at the romantic Maymont Mansion. Maymont.org

V I R G I N I A W I N E E X P ORichmond Convent ion CenterFeb rua r y 18 -23

Taste more than 400 of Virginia’s best wines, meet some of the region’s best chefs, or enjoy special food and wine dinners, lunches and other special events at the 7th Annual Wine Expo.VirginiaWineExpo.com

Bob Adelman, March on Washington, 1963. Courtesy of VMFA

Photo courtesy of Science Museum of Virginia

Photo courtesy of Science Museum of Virginia

Photo courtesy of Maymont Foundation


3 8 T H A N N U A L R I C H M O N D H O M E & G A R D E N S H O WRi chmond Ra cewa y Comp lex Feb rua r y 28 -Mar ch 2

Get inspiration for your home and garden improvements at the three-day expo featuring the latest design trends, remodeling solutions, and landscaping ideas.RichmondHomeAndGarden.com

Fo r a more expans i ve l i s t o f even t s , v i s i t u s on l i ne a t

R I C H M O N D N AV I G A T O R . C O M .

R I C H M O N D I N T E R N A T I O N A L F I L M F E S T I VA LByrd TheaterFeb rua r y 27 - Mar ch 2

Enjoy 53 film screenings at the Historic Byrd Theater, Q & A’s with visiting filmmakers, mixers, musical showcase events, and a Red Carpet finale.RvaFilmFestival.com

EDGAR ALL AN POE ’S B IR THDAY BASHThe Museum of Edgar Allan PoeJanua r y 18

Toast Richmond’s favorite poet at the annual Poe Museum birthday bash featuring tours, family fun, birthday cake, and a champagne toast at midnight in the Poe Shrine.PoeMuseum.org

West End's Best 33


GIFT CARD


River City

36 . BACKSTAGEwith Pos i t ive No

38 . RA IS ING THE BARRomant ic Dr inks Heat ing Up

Winter Nights

40 . RVAhhh . . .Spectacular Day Spas

West End's Best 35

River City


BackstageIn ter v iew wi th Pos i t ive NoB y D a v y J o n e s

If knowledge is power, Positive No co-founders Kenny Close and Tracy Wilson must be two of the most powerful mu-sicians in Richmond. Between them, they have 4,000 records,

decades of experience in the music industry, a savant-level knack for recognizing melodies and an outstanding new EP, Via Florum. With a performance alongside bandmates Andre Phillips (bass) and Willis Thompson (drums) coming up on Feb. 13 at Strange Matter, I sat down with Close and Wilson to drink gingerbread stout and chat about all things Positive No.

WHAT WERE THE GOALS WHEN YOU S TARTED TH I S PROJECT?

Tra cy W i l s on : Enjoy ourselves. Make it so it’s actually something we’re proud of and feel good about at the end of the day.

Kenny C l o s e : Create and have interesting and rewarding experi-ences together.

TW: But we had no idea if anybody would like it. So, there’s that weird crapshoot of recording some demos and then, oh, people actually think it’s OK. They’re excited to hear more. That’s kind of amazing.

TRACY, YOUR VOCALS IN POS I T I VE NO ARE S IGN I F I CANTLY D I F FER -ENT THAN WHEN YOU WERE IN DAHL IA S EED . WHICH S TYLE DO YOU ENJOY MORE?

TW: I love that old version of me, but I wasn’t really healthy. I was chan-neling things that normal people work out in very different ways. It’s a thousand times more of a creative, positive experience having the ability to be this happy, grounded person and attack the songs in a way that makes sense for the music.

KENNY, YOU ’VE C I T ED IRA KAPLAN OF YO LA T ENGO AS AN INFLU -ENCE . WHAT OTHER GU I TAR I S TS INSP IRE YOU?

KC : There are two gentlemen, Eric Bachmann and Eric Johnson, who are in a band called Archers of Loaf and were my gateway drug into interesting guitar. There’d be gaps in things – these pauses and weird strumming patterns. There’s also a gentleman named Ash Bowie, who’s in Polvo, and Mary Timony, who was in Helium and Wild Flag and Ex Hex.

HOW D ID YOU END UP RECORD ING AT MAGP I E CAGE IN BALT IMORE?

TW: J. [Robbins] was just that perfect fit. It’s really nice to work with somebody who understands this style of band, the marriage between heavy and melodic. We couldn’t have asked for a better home.

I LOVE V IA F LORUM’S COVER . WHAT WENT INTO THE DES IGN?

KC : Via Florum means “the flowering way,” or creating beauty out of something that isn’t necessarily beautiful to begin with. It’s like being in

a band. Hard things happen, and you make art out of that. That photo’s from an abandoned school — you look at an abandoned school and say “Oh, that’s gross,” but all these really nice photos came out of that shoot.

WHERE D ID THE IDEA TO TURN GALLERY 5 ’ S S TAGE INTO A BLANKET FORT FOR THE RELEASE SHOW COME FROM?

KC : We wanted it to be a big deal. We didn’t want it to be like any other show. It’s our first record, and it was a really nice arrangement of bands, so we were like “Let’s build a giant blanket fort.”

TW: It should also be said — we don’t try to wear this on our sleeves, but we are undeniably a couple in a band — our first date involved a blanket fort. “Dreamland, VA,” is about that. It’s as smushy as we’re ever going to get in a public scenario. n


Romantic Drinks

Winter Nights

THE PIG AND THE PEARLThe Pig and the Pearl was first on our list. Beth Turk, the beverage

manager at this cool, new restaurant/bar has been one of our long-

time favorite female mixologists on the local dining scene. She

whipped up a perfect hot and steamy romantic beverage featuring

pomegranate molasses and cleverly dubbed it the Hearts of Pom in

homage to our search.

As for the food, Beth says, “If you’re looking for romance, we

have amazing oysters (wink, wink, nod, nod).” In fact, based on our

totally unscientific survey, three out

of four bartenders we interviewed

recommended adding a mollusk to

the mix.

2053 W. Broad Street | (804) 447-2016

thepigandpearl.com

"Drink to me only with thine eyes,” wrote the 17th century Eng-

lish poet, Ben Johnson. In his epic poem, “To Celia,” John-

son proclaims a love so intense that he needs nothing more than her

loving gaze. He pledges that with such, “I’ll not ask for wine.”

It’s a beautiful sentiment, but on these cold winter nights, sharing a

special cocktail in a warm, intimate setting can surely enhance the

romance. Our early cold spell put us in the mood to seek out some

of the city’s most romantic dining spots. Here are four that we found

to be particularly appealing.

By Steve Cook. Photos by Robert Thomas.

WATER COASTAL KITCHENOur next stop: Carytown, and the Water Coastal Kitchen. This

renovated Cary Street row home has all the trappings for romance,

including, says bartender, Neil Nordheim, two gas fireplaces to warm

things up on cold evenings. “Plus,” Neil added, “we offer small, private

dining areas which add to the intimacy.” For those really special

occasions, he recommends putting in a request for Table 63.

The Water Coastal Kitchen features Oyster Night on Mondays

with special items on the menu, along with reduced pricing on

select dishes, and if your idea of romance

includes fresh local and regional seafood,

you really can’t beat this place on any night

of the week. According to Neil, the buffalo-

fried oysters “provide good heat: and pair

well with the black pepper notes in the

Mango Basil Martini.

3411 W. Cary Street | (804) 353-3411

watercoastalkitchen.com

HEARTS OF POMPomegranate molasses

Baileys Irish Cream

Snap (a ginger-based spirit)

Topped with whipped cream, a sprinkle of

Grenadine, and a cherry, and served hot.

MANGO BASIL MARTINIAbsolut Mango

Cointreau

House-made mango puree

Cracked pepper (one to two turns)

A dash of simple syrup

Garnished with a basil sprig (shaken, not stirred) .

Heating Up


HERMITAGE GRILLFinally, let me tell you about the Hermitage Grill. This

cool, little place can easily qualify as one of our true “hid-

den gems.” Located on a small, not-so-well-traveled sec-

tion of Hermitage Road, the Hermitage Grill may be off the

beaten path for many, but it’s well worth the drive. The

small, modest structure belies the marvels that await once

you enter. Co-owner and chef, Waller McCracken, trained

at Le Cordon Bleu in London, and previously worked at the

Country Club of Virginia and Du Jour.

Describing his restaurant as “quiet and intimate”, Waller

says, “People don’t talk (at dinner) anymore. They’re too

busy looking at their cell phones.” In other words, to make

the most of your night out, no texting while dining.

Our bartender, Stacy Jones, served up the Neon Mar-

tini…perfect for lighting up your night. For an appetizer,

she suggests the crab and roasted red pepper soup, but

the menu also offers a variety of tempting delights such

as sushi-grade tuna, crab cakes, a very popular prime rib

salad, and, oh yeah, fried oysters.

6010 Hermitage Road

(804) 264-7400NEON MARTINISvedka Citron

Blue Curacao

Pineapple

Sweetened lime juice

HERA OF THE DOGHendrick’s Gin

Fresh lemon and lime

Splash of simple syrup

PEGASUSHeading west into the county, we stopped in at Pegasus. For over 15

years the Hatzimanolis family has been quietly packing in throngs of devoted

diners nightly, tantalizing their guests with exquisite Greek cuisine. Daugh-

ter Sophia, who serves as the front-of-house manager, describes this neigh-

borhood favorite (located in a small strip shopping center) as offering quiet,

comfortable dining. “We want you to take your time. Enjoy yourselves! You’re

never rushed here,” she adds.

With romantic, subdued lighting and candles flickering on cozy tables,

that’s a good thing. This is, indeed, a place to linger and savor each beautiful

moment. Sophia recommends several of the appetizers including the lightly

breaded calamari. And, she says, “my father personally makes the tzatziki and

the taramasalata.” As for the oysters, Sophia promises, “Pegasus serves the

best fried oysters in town.”

Bartender, Adam Thomas, came up with a Hendrickson

Gin martini, which he called “Hera of the Dog,” in honor of

our search for romance. Hera, Adam told me, is the Greek

goddess of marriage, and after sampling this potent po-

table, I could see how one might easily decide to drop to

one knee and pop the question.

5604 Patterson Avenue

( 804) 282-3719

West End's Best 39

River City


RVAhhhh...Spectacu lar Day SpasB y J o d y R a t h g e b

P ick up your phone and call the girls, because it’s time to turn your winter “blahs” into soothing “aahs.” Yes, it’s time for a

little R&R in RVA, and you don’t need a birthday or an upcoming wed-ding for a girls’ day out. Catching up with friends during a relaxing spa day is good for you, so think of it as part of your health and wellness plan.

CARRY ON IN CARYTOWNStart with a movie at the Byrd Theatre and then move next door to

Perception Salon and Spa for your own movie-star pampering. Specials range from a two-hour session that includes Swedish massage, manicure and pedicure, to a five-hour Signature Day of Beauty that adds a facial, shampoo and style and a full lunch.

Hydration is the key word at Salon Vivace. Mani-pedis and wellness pedicures focus on keeping the hands and feet toned and smooth, and there’s also a HydraFacial. The Day of Pampering offers a mani-pedi, facial, body wrap, shampoo and style, makeup session and lunch.

The hot stone massage is the keystone, so to speak, at Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa. The signature offering is Swedish mas-sage with heated stones for deep relaxation. Trigger-point massage, exfo-liation and peels are also offered.

You’ll find the massages, wraps and facials you expect at Main Street Spa and Wellness Center, and you can amp up the “aah factor” with aro-matherapy massage, herbology, body polish and reflexology.

Before/after: If you’re not up for a movie, try some retail therapy. Carytown is known for its eclectic shops and great people-watching, so make a day of it.

SHOCKOE BOTTOM BEAUTYOne of Richmond’s newest spas, Belissa Salon and Spa, offers a

broad range of services – from makeup lessons and mineral scrubs to sea-mud therapy and airbrush tanning. Check out their special packages like Relaxation for Two, which offers a combination massage and pedicure with lunch, or the La Bella Special Day of Beauty that includes a facial, mud massage, mani-pedi, cut and style and lunch.

Razors of Richmond takes care of your hair and nails, and offers two types of massage and waxing services. If the men in your life want their own day out, Razors can take care of them too.

Before/after: Shockoe Bottom is “Happy Hour Central” with a wide variety of bars and restaurants. Enjoy a sophisticated martini, grab a cold beer and some barbecue or catch up over a glass of wine. If history is more your style, play tourist in your own town: The Poe Museum, Holo-caust Museum, African-American Burial Site and St. John’s Church are all nearby.

CITY CLOSEUPSIf you want the most fabulous nails in your office, you’ll love Indulge

Salon and Spa, specializing in unique nail treatments including shellac, sequin and those wild Minx designs. Add a detox wrap and massage, and you have a full spa day.

We all know that a good massage is better than … well, you know what. Enjoy a full menu of massages at Affordable Spa Services, where eight state certified massage therapists are available for your whims. Choose the type of massage that’s right for you.

Before/after: What could be more chic than some pampering fol-lowed by a matinee? Check to see what’s playing at Richmond Center-Stage, the recently-reopened Altria Theater (formerly Landmark) or at the various performance venues at Virginia Commonwealth University.

THE ARTFUL WOMANAt Art Works in Manchester, you can enjoy a soothing massage with

Therapy by Natalie LLC and afterward, soothe your artistic soul touring the galleries and open studios.

Drop by Massage Envy at Willow Lawn for one of their signature hot stone massages, and pop across Broad Street to peruse Crossroads Art Gallery. Before/After: Grab a sweet treat and coffee at Barnes & Noble or check out the cool boutiques in the Libbie & Grove. n


From facials and massages,

to dogs and books.

By Tammie Wersinger

Delightful Ways

to De-stress

West End's Best 43


While many people associate the holidays with family, gift giving and great food, others find the dizzying demands of plan-

ning, organizing and paying for the festivities to be overwhelming. All that shopping, cooking, cleaning and entertaining that had your stress hormones pump-ing and blood pressure rising are behind you, and the New Year is the perfect time to face that stress head-on. Knowing what causes those feelings of anxiousness can be the catalyst to moving your life back into balance.

Just as stress triggers a response of heavy breathing, constricting blood vessels and higher heart rates, de-stressing leads to a relaxation response, where breathing slows, blood pressure decreases and less oxy-gen is needed, says Margaret Rittenhouse, clinical director of HelpLink Employee Assistance Program at VCU Medical Center.

“Bringing our stress levels down is for our overall wellness, so we’ll be able to enjoy our lives more,’’ Rittenhouse explains. “When we’re under chronic or high level stress it affects every part of our body. We’re in the fight or flight mode, so we can’t let go and relax.”

While we know it’s impossible in this modern age to live a com-pletely stress-free life, we’ve come up with a list of delightful ways to get you started on the road to a less-stressful year.

Make time for a MassageThe American Massage Therapy Association touts numerous studies

that show how the power of touch can change a person’s emotional state and stress level.

"Massage helps to boost your immunity and gives you a feeling of comfort and relaxation,” says Sara McBride, owner of Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa in Short Pump. “When your body feels relaxed your mind will follow suit.”

Visit a SpaIt’s the combined sensory elements of a spa that come together to

clear our minds of distractions and stressors. “It’s the environment – the smells, the aromas and the soothing music, but especially the sense of touch – that triggers the body to release tension,’’ said Franki Lambiotte, co-owner of Deux Amis Med Spa in Chester. “Our motto is relax, restore and revive, and that’s what we do by giving our clients a great skin care plan, along with a calming space to de-stress and detox their bodies.”

Read a BookSo Oprah’s Book Club wasn’t just for fun. According to a study by

the University of Sussex’s Mindlab International, reading, especially fiction, lowered the heart rate, eased tension and reduced stress levels by 68 percent in research participants. Besides, books mentally transport us from stressors and halt the production of stress-related chemicals.

Get a DogResearch shows that interacting with a pet also plays a part in

decreasing the level of cortisol and increases endorphins, which also are called happiness hormones. The Richmond area has an array of rescue groups – from the Richmond SPCA to the Animal Adop-tion and Rescue Foundation (AARF) – that can pair people with the perfect pooch. “The companionship of pets provides real health benefits and has been shown in recent studies to reduce stress, lower blood pressure and cholesterol and increase feelings of optimism,’’ says Robin Starr, CEO of the Richmond SPCA. “The unconditional love shared with a pet improves our lives immeasurably and there's nothing better than coming home to a pet at the end of the day.”

An extensive list of animal rescue organizations can be found at dogrichmond.com/shelters.

Ways to De-stress


Find a FriendA strong social support network has been shown to be an effective

way of getting through tough times. They give us a feeling of security, a sense of belonging and increased self worth.

Get MusicalWhether you’re playing or listening, music is a good stress reliever,

providing mental distraction, reducing tension and decreasing stress hor-mones. The Mayo Clinic suggests that if you’re not into music, try an-other hobby like gardening, sewing or sketching – anything that requires you to focus on what you’re doing rather that what you haven’t done or should be doing.

Take a WalkBesides burning calories, walking releases stress-busting endorphins,

gives us more energy and puts the mind in a in a meditative state. Walk-ers also benefit from being outdoors, and those who participate with a friend build strong social bonds – another stress reliever. “Exercise, in-cluding walking, is so important because it allows endorphins to be re-leased,” explains Rittenhouse. “And, the endorphins counter the stress hormone, cortisol.’’

Sleep it OffWhen we’re stressed our sleep suffers, but it’s that elusive slumber

that recharges our bodies and brains and helps us combat stress. If a good night’s sleep is only a dream, the Mayo Clinic suggests a quiet, relaxing bedtime routine and a consistent sleep schedule. "We all know that a good mattress is an important element in getting a good night's sleep, which helps combat stress,'' says Jeff Worsham, owner of Mattress Direct in Powhatan. "But, another important factor for getting into deep REM sleep is a cool room of about 65 degrees."

Buy a PlantIn addition to being beauti-

ful air purifiers, houseplants can help calm you down. In a study conducted by Washington State University, a group of stressed-out people who entered a room full of plants had a four-point drop in their blood pressure.

“It has a lot to do with our chemistry that we naturally crave nature and that’s what plants are for,’’ says Sunnie Wright of Strange’s Florist, Greenhouses and Garden Center. “They bring us back to being human and give us a connection to our roots.” Strange, who is the greenhouse manager at Strange’s Short Pump location, recommends dracaenas for low-light, easy-maintenance air purifiers and peace lilies for their beauty.

Eat Mood-Boosting Foods When stressed or anxious, many of us crave indulgent carbohydrates

and other sweet, starchy foods like cookies, chocolate and pretzels. Re-search has shown that in small portions, these foods can have a soothing effect because they may boost serotonin levels. Be careful not to overdo it – about 100 calories worth will suffice. Bananas and other foods high in potassium also are good stress-relieving options. The American Psycho-logical Association recommends potassium-rich foods to stave off the physical detriments of stress.

So whether you get a new furry friend, head to the spa, take a walk or buy a bed, make de-stressing your life the goal of 2014.

“We can’t fully experience the moment if we’re busy thinking about what we should have done differently last Christmas: Did I overspend? Did I not do something right?’’, Rittenhouse says.” “We need to stop worrying about the things we can’t change and be present in each situ-ation, set boundaries and establish priorities. It will lead to a much less stressful life.” n

West End's Best 45


W ith a multitude of exercise options out there, it’s hard to decide which is best for you. Do you want low impact or high intensity? Are you the slow-and-steady type or do you want to see immedi-

ate results? Do you want to exercise in a group or alone?Whether you’ve been on a long-time exercise program and are look-

ing for a change or are new to getting in shape, there are plenty of choices that will make shedding extra pounds fun, easy and entertaining.

After a season of overindulging at neighborhood parties, family din-ners and celebratory evenings, when the New Year starts, what are you left with? If you’re like most people, it’s 10 extra pounds and a resolution to lose it.

Lynne J. Gilbert, a Virginia Commonwealth University assistant professor who teaches budding physical education teachers, said the key to success is changing your mindset from the start and making sure you’re always mixing up the routine.

“It’s definitely a lifestyle change. It’s not just about going to work-out,” she said. “Eventually everyone will find their niche in what is im-portant to them in terms of fitness.”

It’s time to think beyond the treadmill and elliptical trainer. There are plenty of options:

TAKE IT OUTSIDEEven if it’s cold and wet outside, that shouldn’t stop you from kicking

up that exercise program with some fresh air. There are plenty of outdoor activities that can be done any time of year. John McGuire, owner of Seal Team Physical Training, Inc. in Richmond, said the most important part of outdoor exercise is what you wear.“There’s no such thing as bad weather,” he said. “There’s just bad gear.”

Get ready to embrace the great outdoors with a good dose of mud and water:

Mud Runs or Obstacle RacesIf you’re not afraid to get down and dirty, mud runs are just for you. You’ll run, walk, climb and crawl through courses that are, of course, muddy and dirty. Some of these races are timed, but many are not.

Kayaking or Stand Up Paddle BoardingThe James River is a great place for kayaking and paddle boarding. If it’s your first time out, there are numerous places in the Richmond area that rent equipment and offer lessons. Remember to always wear a life vest.

Mountain BikingThere’s nothing like bicycling to get the heart pumping, and Richmond has some of the nation’s greatest places to do it. Belle Isle and the Riv-erside Drive area are known for their challenging mountain bike trails for off-roading.

DON’T JUST TREAD WATERSome of the newest trends in exercise are in the pool. Don’t be fooled

though -- this isn’t your grandmother’s exercise regime. The latest re-search shows that water fitness programs can be challenging and effective for even top athletes. Kim Larson, director of programs at Collegiate School Aquatics Center in north Richmond, said water aerobics classes can be as strenuous as those done on land. Probably the best part about them is there’s little chance of an injury. “It’s all in what the individual makes of it,” she said. “Everybody works at their own pace.”

To change up an exercise program, try some of the newest trends in aquatic fitness:

FIND YOUR NEW EXERCISE GROOVE THIS

By Amy R. ConnollyCourtesy of Col legiate School Aquatics Center


Aqua JoggingAqua jogging brings cross-training to the deep end of the swimming pool for an intense, no-impact workout. Participants wear a buoyancy belt to stay afloat.

Deep-Water AerobicsForget about standing in the shallow end of the pool with a foam noodle, deep-water aerobics takes place in, you guessed it, the deep end of the pool. This is a no-impact workout with a focus on core strength.

Aqua Kick BoxingWhen you combine the intensity of martial arts with the resistance that comes from water, the result is a cardiovascular workout that doesn’t stress the joints.

BE PART OF THE GROUPExercise doesn’t have to be a solo activity. There’s more fun, and ac-

countability, in numbers. So grab your best buddy and head out to sweat. Or better yet, make some new friends while you get in shape. Those people can serve as motivation when you’re starting a new exercise re-gime and a reminder to keep going back.

“A large majority of people who take group exercise classes probably would not be exercising without it,” said Chris Henry, a director of fit-ness and wellness at ACAC Fitness & Wellness Centers in Midlothian. “People want to workout with like-minded individuals.”Some of the best group exercise activities are also the toughest:

Boot CampsWhether you’re looking for a drill sergeant to bark out orders or a mo-tivational exercise guru to lead the way, boot camps are the way to go. These high-intensity classes are a fun way to get in shape and make some friends. In many cases, boot camps allow participants to bond under the ‘we’re-all-in-it-together’ mindset.

Ballet Barre A combination of ballet, yoga and Pilates, this exercise trend will have you stretching and moving. Participants use a ballet barre as support dur-ing a total-body workout. Barre exercises are aimed at increasing flex-ibility while toning muscles and improving range of motion. Barre uses small and controlled movements.

TabataIf you’re short on time but have boundless energy, Tabata is perfect for you. This takes the interval-training craze to the next level, using 20 seconds of maximum intensity followed by 10 seconds of rest in four-minute cycles. The goal is to do it eight times in a row. If four minutes of exercise doesn’t sound that hard, just try it.

GO IT ALONE AT HOME Don’t have the time, motivation or resolve to go out to exercise?

That’s no excuse. There are many different ways to exercise in the comfort of your own living room. Research shows that many people can create their own at-home plan and easily stick with it. It’s all about finding what works best for you.

Gone are the days when Jane Fonda videos were the only way to go. Today, at-home exercise trends have gone viral:

Online Fitness Classes and CommunitiesFrom streaming fitness classes to online motivation, the Internet has opened the door to the newest fitness trend. The choices are endless. There are several popular websites that offer live streaming access to fit-ness classes for a small monthly fee. At the same time, message boards and online motivation are available on a local and national level. All you need is a computer and some willpower.

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) DVDsThe latest buzzword in exercise is HIIT training. It’s an intense workout that leaves your metabolism revved for hours after you’re done. HIIT is known to produce dramatic and rapid changes. With names like IN-SANITY and TurboFire, these HIIT DVDs are not for the weak of legs.

At-Home EquipmentIf you’re one of the gazillion people who have an exercise machine collect-ing dust and dirty laundry, you might be reluctant to add another piece to the collection. But some of the newest trends include smaller pieces like kettle bells and hula hoops, which are easily tucked away in the closet. Kettle bells are small, cast-iron weights that allow users to build muscle during HIIT or other cardiovascular workouts. The best part about hula hooping is that it’s an all-around great at-home exercise with a focus on core strength. Together, they make a complete workout. n

Courtesy of Seal Team Physical Training

Courtesy of ACAC Short Pump

Courtesy of ACAC Fitness & Wellness Centers

West End's Best 47

Take your get-in-shape resolution on the road to

some of Virginia’s most luxurious resorts where

fitness and pampering are anything but ordinary.

By Ginger Warder

ResortsRejuvenating

Keswick Hall

Omni Homestead

Salamander Resort & Spa

Photo courtesy of Keswick Hall



For more than four centuries, Virginia's cognoscenti have retreated to the bucolic countryside for rest and recreation. In 1755, George Washington rode up into

the Allegheny Mountains to survey a site for Fort Dinwiddie and stopped off to enjoy the healing mineral waters at Warm Springs, already becoming known as a spa resort. Today, it's part of the Omni Homestead. Washington was no stranger to Middleburg either: his first cousin, Joseph Chinn, used to own the property where the charming one-stoplight town is located, a close neighbor to the new Salamander Resort and

Spa. And, as an avid foxhunter, it's a relative certainty that Washington enjoyed the chase on the land around Char-lottesville where the luxurious boutique hotel, Keswick Hall, nestles in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. All three of these resorts offer a unique take on health and wellness, along with an array of activities that range from equestrian yoga and ice skating to long walks with a pack of hunting hounds. Follow in your ancestors’ footsteps and enjoy a long winter weekend exploring some new ways to relax.

Courtesy of Salamander Resort & Spa.

Courtesy of Salamander Resort & Spa.

Courtesy of The Omni Homestead.

Courtesy of The Omni Homestead.

Courtesy of Keswick Hall.


Virginia Wine CountryNestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge

Mountains near Charlottesville, Keswick Hall is 1912 Tuscan-style villa situated on 600 lush acres in the heart of Virginia wine country. Named the Top Small Resort in Mainland, USA by Condé Nast Traveler, Keswick Hall offers refined elegance and award-winning cui-sine, as well as a vast array of activities – from golf, tennis, fitness classes and spa treatments to invigorating morning walks with the Kes-wick Club hunting hounds.

The private mansion-cum-hotel boasts 48 opulent rooms and suites furnished with English and American antiques, as well as top shelf amenities and world-class dining at Fos-set’s Restaurant, a destination in and of itself. There’s no formal check-in desk here: you’ll be welcomed as if you were a private guest and so will your furry family members.

Once a private home known as Villa Craw-ford, which is now the historic north wing of the hotel, the original woodwork, fireplaces and staircase have been fully restored. Spend a cozy afternoon in front of a roaring fire in the lobby or library, or enjoy a game of billiards in the game room. Miles of hiking and nature trails offer you plenty of outdoor time, and there are a variety of classes in the fitness center. If you can’t find one that suits you, Director of Well-ness Colette Long can customize a workout routine tailored to your specific goals. Guests love the choreographed Body Blast Weight Lifting class and the Mind Body Challenge, a combination of tai chi moves with yoga and Pilates mat work.

Keswick Hall is a perfect location to explore the Monticello Wine Trail. In 2012, Wine En-thusiast Magazine named Virginia one of the world’s 10 best wine destinations and many of its finest vineyards are located in the Monti-cello American Viticultural Area (AVA), where Thomas Jefferson’s vision of producing great wines in his native state has finally come to fru-ition. Richard Hewitt, both the sommelier and resident winemaker of Keswick Hall’s private label, leads regular wine-tasting events at the resort and also offers private “insider” tours of some of the top wineries in the region.

Keswick Hallat Monticello

www.keswick.com

Photos Courtesy of Keswick Hall

West End's Best 51

Omni HomesteadResort & Spa

www.thehomestead.com

Soaking in HistoryThomas Jefferson visited the Homestead in

1818 and the resort’s original guest books docu-ment his 22-day visit. Suffering from rheuma-toid arthritis, the former president experienced great relief from long soaks in the warm mineral springs and enjoyed the fine dining and outdoor activities at the resort. The octagonal-shaped Gentleman’s Pool – where Jefferson “took the waters” – was built in 1761 and is the oldest spa structure in the United States. It was renamed in homage to the great man’s visit, and today visitors can enjoy the same restorative benefits of the 43,000 gallons of constantly flowing warm mineral waters.

Those waters, at a natural temperature of 98.7 degrees, are also piped in to the Omni Spa, where you can take a long soak in a walnut tub. The healing liquid is also the main ingredient in a variety of exclusive Jefferson Pool spa prod-ucts. The spa’s European-style Aqua Thermal Suite offers an array of hot and cold aquatic treatments, ranging from an herbal cocoon un-der a starlit ceiling to experiential showers and a cold cabin cool-off.

The Homestead also offers a huge variety of outdoor activities – from skiing and ice skating in the winter months to fly fishing, golf, horse-back riding and falconry.

Enjoy a little presidential pampering of your own with complimentary afternoon tea in the majestic lobby in front of one of the two huge wood-burning fireplaces. In the evening, take a page from Thomas Jefferson’s book and enjoy a bistro-style dinner at the new restaurant named in his honor, where Chef Ja-son Ferrell serves up a selection of steaks and chops from the open-view grill. With a variety of small plates, salads and the grill menu, the restaurant lends itself to healthy fare. If you don’t see something that works for your diet, just ask. “If we have the ingredients, we’ll make it for you,” says Chef Ferrell.

Photos Courtesy of The Omni Homestead


Located on the former horse farm of Washington socialite Pamela Harriman, the new Salamander Resort & Spa is a stunning 340-acre equestrian paradise in Middleburg. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to live on a country estate, this resort will give you a sneak peek into the elegant, yet understated, lifestyle of the Washington power brokers who reside in the area.

Sheila Johnson, the dynamic entrepreneur who co-founded Black Entertainment Television and is the founder of Salamander Hotels & Resorts, took inspiration from her own country estate in designing the luxury resort, and the opulent Owner’s Suite features furnishings and accessories from her private collection.

Experience the sporting life through equestrian classes, ranging from dressage to steeplechasing, or try some new and intriguing horse-themed activities like equestrian yoga. A state-of-the-art cooking studio also of-fers unique classes, where you can learn how to butcher and cook game meats or how to make your own homemade pasta.

The Salamander Spa offers a holistic health and wellness program tailored to your specific well-being needs, including integrative and re-gionalized treatments, along with educational workshops and results-driven therapies. The spacious complex includes a stunning couple’s suite for tandem treatments, aromatic steam rooms, a private courtyard and lush spa lounge. The spa’s innovative treatments go far beyond standard massage with offerings like magnetic therapy and a farm-to-treatment ritual based on the four seasons of the year that incorporates essential oils from local native plants, herbs, botanical blooms and organic fruits. Try the Rasul – a Moroccan-inspired therapy that takes place in a heated ceramic dome and uses a re-mineralizing mud to break down impurities in the skin. Pump up your heart rate at the huge indoor pool or try a fit-ness class for the whole family.

Chef Todd Gray, owner and executive chef of Washington’s highly acclaimed Equinox Restaurant, oversees the culinary creations at the resort’s outlets, including the Piedmont-centric menu at the 110-seat equestrian-inspired restaurant.

All 17 suites and about half of the 151 guestrooms feature gas fire-places, and all boast bathrooms with marble jetted showers, pedestal tubs and LCD televisions.

With golf, tennis, hiking, birding and guided nature tours, there’s plenty to do outdoors. Bring your own horse and stable it in the 22-stall barn to explore the extensive riding trails, or take a long walk with your best four-footed friend: dogs are also welcome at Salamander with no weight limits. n

BYOH (Bring Your Own Horse)

SalamanderResort & Spa

www.salamanderresort.com

Photos Courtesy of Salamander Resort & Spa

West End's Best 53www.richmondnavigator.com

Design

Design


V i c k i O ' N e a l , o w n e r o f F O R M & F U N C T I O N , p r o v i d e s

c o m m e r c i a l a n d r e s i d e n t i a l i n t e r i o r a n d l a n d s c a p e

d e s i g n . S h e i s a p r o f e s s i o n a l m e m b e r o f A S I D , V A

C e r t i f i e d I n t e r i o r D e s i g n e r ( C I D ) , M a s t e r G a r d e n e r,

a n d a V A C e r t i f i e d L a n d s c a p e D e s i g n e r ( V S L D ) a n d a

H o r t i c u l t u r i s t .

( 8 0 4 ) 8 9 7 - 8 5 5 8 | F a n d F d e s i g n . c o m

I n f o r m a t i o n i n a r t i c l e s w r i t t e n b y

V i c k i O ’ N e a l i s i n t e n d e d f o rg e n e r a l r e f e r e n c e o n l y .

Create a DesignCalendar

What, When and Why!?B y V i c k i O ' N e a l , A S I D , C I D , V S L D

Timing is everything," and as the enduring phrase so aptly describes various aspects of life, it also applies to your household.

Inside and out, homeowners are continually strategizing projects or re-pairs they need or want to accomplish. Did you know that there may be an ideal time of year to accomplish many of these initiatives? Most often we are eager to jump right in after deciding to move forward with a particular idea. But, preparation and patience can be a savvy strategy, especially if you’d like to work within and take advantage of the seasonal cycles of the marketplace and the design and construction industry. Out-door temperatures may even affect the ideal implementation schedule for your project.

PLAN AHEADFor any renovation or construction project, planning ahead is never

more important. The specific design and development always come first, and the ideal time for scheduling the work largely depends on the type of project. For instance, if you have notions of installing a new outdoor liv-ing space or landscape, and March or April arrives prior to having an ac-tion plan in place, your project may become a summer or fall installation. Whether the implementation is DIY – and especially if you will likely hire professionals – the planning, scheduling and logistics of any project take time. If the starting date falls in the peak season of any particular industry, it could lead to delays, frustration or top dollars being spent. Besides, the most-sought-after professionals are often booked weeks or months in advance.

The same principle applies to any interior or exterior construction project. If you have plans to remodel a kitchen or bathroom, and want the work to be completed for a specific event like a graduation, wedding, or the arrival of guests, don’t leave your scheduling until the last minute. Planning at least three to six months prior to your needed completion date is essential for a smooth process and successful outcome. Time re-quired always, of course, depends largely on the complexity of the proj-ect and the parties involved. Remember that you could be working with multiple trades and individuals, all with different schedules and priori-ties. Careful evaluation and building solid relationships are fundamental as projects frequently do not advance in a linear, neat process. A spirit of flexibility and sometimes compromise is often beneficial to all.

“For any renovation, construction, or landscape project, the design process should begin well in advance of the desired completion date.”

C o n s t r u c t i o n o f a n y p r o j e c t , w h e t h e r i n d o o r s o r o u t , r e q u i r e s v i s i o n a n d p l a n n i n g .

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Design

www.richmondnavigator.com56 January/February 2014

PURCHASE• Prune—deciduous trees & shrubs (non-spring blooming)• Start early—install outdoor living projects

PREPARE• Plan outdoor living projects• Plan landscape projects• Plan summer projects— painting, construction, renovations & repairs

PURCHASE• Vacuums (buy last year’s model in time for spring cleaning)• Cookware & kitchen accessories• Carpet• Refrigerators • Mattresses• Furniture & carpet• Paint (sales start in June)

PURCHASE• Bedding & linens • Furniture• Interior décor• TVs & home theater• Exercise equipment

PURCHASE• Outdoor furniture and accessories (July & August)

PREPARE & IMPLEMENT• Plan landscape projects (fall is the best time for planting)• Continue repairs, construction, or renovations• Paint

PURCHASE• Furniture (sales June & July; new inventory in August)• Carpet • Tool sets

PREPARE & IMPLEMENT• Interior & exterior projects for the holidays• Furniture & carpet• Paint (sales start in June)

PURCHASE• Lawn mowers• Grills• Closeouts on nursery plants

PREPARE & IMPLEMENT• Clean up leaves• Finish repairs• Renovation & construction projects continue

PURCHASE• Home appliances, large & small• Consumer electronics• TVs

PREPARE & IMPLEMENT• Interior & exterior projects prior to holidays• Furniture & carpet• Paint (sales start in June)

JANUARY FEBRUARY MARCH

2014

APRIL MAY JUNE

OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER

JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER

Design Calendar T h e g e n e r a l s u g g e s t i o n s f o r e a c h s e a s o n f o l l o w i n c h r o n o l o g i c a l o r d e r. T h r o u g h o u t

t h e e n t i r e y e a r, a s I a l w a y s s t r e s s — p l a n , p l a n , p l a n ! K e e p i n m i n d m a n y i t e m s o n

t h e c a l e n d a r o v e r l a p o n e a n o t h e r. C o n s t r u c t i o n , r e n o v a t i o n , a n d e v e n o u t d o o r l i v i n g

p r o j e c t s c a n b e a c t i v e t h r o u g h o u t t h e y e a r.

PURCHASE• Plants—shrubs, trees, annuals & perennials• Lawn mowers (April)• Paint (sales start in June)• Hardware

PREPARE & IMPLEMENT• Get planting• Plant your veggies!• Plan and install outdoor living• Summer projects

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804.897.8558 | FandFdesign.com | / FandFdesign

Interior Design• Space planning • Lighting design• Remodeling & additions • Furniture• Construction drawings • Color & materials

Landscape Design• Outdoor living • Hardscapes• Pools & water features• Plant selection • Installation

Design services for home or business

/ FandFdesign

BUILD A CALENDARFor specific products and materials, scope out the oh-so-predictable

and reliable market seasons to find the best deals for purchasing materi-als and home items. Follow my “Design Calendar” for surprising and sensible facts to maximize your efforts, strategies and purchasing power.

Start the year off right and reap the rewards of patience by holding off on purchases until the New Year. Here’s why: through the fall season, retailers are poised for consumer demand, with loads of products and inventory available. Did you know that “Back to School” is second only to the holidays as the busiest time of the year for retailers? Also, many homeowners scramble during their busy fall to begin and complete home improvements before the holiday season arrives. So many Americans initiate home improvements before the holiday season that prices may actually be escalated during that time.

Due to the high-energy seasonal ramp-up and its inevitable wan-ing, January and February are especially great times to take advantage of sales and even bargain pricing, particularly on large appliances, carpet and flooring, furniture, and interior décor. In 1878, the January “White Sale” came into being, and retailers still honor the tradition conceived by the creative entrepreneur and strategist John Wannaker. Fitness equip-ment and office furniture are also great buys in January. The rest of the year follows similar seasonal cycles, with specific times for optimizing choice, availability or price.

SO MANY CHOICES

Have you ever wondered if our lives are enhanced or diminished by having so many choices and alternatives? I recently heard that an aver-age grocery store has 175 types of salad dressing. Do we really need so many options? I don’t think so, and I believe it actually can diminish our individual quality of life. Do you really want to stand in a 50-foot aisle and consider whether to buy one ply or two; single, double or triple roll, softener or none? You get the picture! The same principle applies to home and garden products, materials and qualities.

To say the least, manufacturers and retailers offer a perplexing array and complexity of interior design and outdoor living merchandise. Often staff is not very available or knowledgeable to assist consumers. Prudent research, an informed sense of timing and a well-laid plan always point a home project or purchase in a positive direction. Also, by planning your project in advance, you can begin to collect materials at their best pricing and be poised to move through your project with ease. Do your home-work, consult professionals, trust your instincts and keep it simple. n

Amazing des ign insp i rat ion can come from the seemingly ord inary and unexpected when observed wi th a f resh eye – whi le shopping or d in ing out , on vacat ion, or even the deta i l s of everyday objec ts . The wor ld i s fu l l of fun surpr i ses! I took these photos whi le on vacat ion in Spain.

West End's Best 57

Design


Maintain Your Greenthumb

Indoor Gardening This WinterB y E r i n D . P i t t m a n

Winter is often the most dreaded season for gardeners. The days are too cold and too short to get your hands

in the dirt and tend to blooms. Or are they? It is possible to continue to foster your love of plants throughout this frigid season with a slight change in perspective…and location.

Indoor gardening during cold months can keep those green thumbs active and fulfilled all winter long. From foliage to flowers and even herbs for cooking, house plants can bring beauty to your home, seasoning to your table and cleaner air throughout your house.

I n d o o r f o l i a g eEasy-to-care-for houseplants bring lovely warmth to your indoor

spaces and surprising benefits, as well. Numerous house plants are an excellent way to improve indoor air quality, which is often more polluted than outdoor air. All plants release oxygen, as part of photosynthesis, thus increase oxygen levels in the home. Additionally, they release mois-ture and increase humidity levels, which is especially beneficial during dry, winter months.

Demanding little, plants such as aloe, golden pothos, philoden-dron and dracaena filter contaminants like formaldehyde and benzene from the air.

I n d o o r b l o o m e r sFor those wishing to tend to blooms, there are many options for in-

door flowering plants. Local experts recommend the following:Amaryllis – With its trumpet-shaped blossoms and variety of colors,

its blooms add beauty to any setting. Place your plant or bulbs in bright sunlight and water sparingly until the stem appears; once the stem is higher, keep the soil moist. Amaryllis offers extended blooms that last from seven to 10 weeks.

African violets – Violets enjoy bright, but not direct, sunlight. Plant-ing in special pots allows them to self-water, reducing the likelihood of too much moisture.

Christmas cactus – Unlike most cacti, this plant requires regular wa-tering and filtered sunlight. With proper care, blooms can be expected from fall to spring.

Cyclamen – This plant’s heart-shaped leaves and long-lasting blos-soms make it a rewarding houseplant to tend. Keep soil moist and the plant in indirect sunlight for best results.

H e r b sThis satisfying option for indoor gardening can easily be grown in

a kitchen windowsill and can add that fresh-picked taste to your winter meals. Most herbs prefer full sun, so pick a window that receives light for much of the day. Make sure to research before planting because some herbs grow quickly from seed, while others start best from cuttings and still others may be best transplanted from your outdoor garden.

Suggested indoor herbs include basil, chives, oregano, parsley, rose-mary, sage and thyme. Consider ones that you frequently use in your cooking and try your hand at those. Using what you grow will provide you the most fulfilling indoor gardening experience.

As you start to explore the idea of moving your garden indoors for the winter, you may realize how many options you have. Perhaps you wish to bring your front porch ferns indoors along with your potted hibiscus. Speak to local nursery experts to decide upon the best spot and care routine for each plant to help it fare the winter. Then start tending to those indoor plants to keep your green thumb from going dormant this winter. n

Yesterday


Edgar Allan Poe'sEnchanted Garden

Edgar allan poe was born in Boston and died in Bal-timore, but he always referred to Richmond as his home, and the

land upon which the historic Linden Row Inn is located played a signifi-cant role in Poe’s early life. The charming downtown boutique hotel is on the National Register of Historic Places and is one of the nation’s finest surviving examples of Greek revival architecture, but the role the inn has played in the history of some of Richmond’s most notable residents is known by very few.

In 1811, Edgar Allan Poe’s mother, Elizabeth, was performing with a traveling theater company at the Richmond Theater when she became ill and died from tuberculosis. Poe’s father vanished shortly after his birth and upon her death, Elizabeth Poe’s three children were separated. Ed-gar was eventually adopted by Scottish immigrant John Allan, a wealthy tobacco merchant in Richmond. Allan gave his foster son his middle name, and in 1815, he and his wife, Frances, took him along to England to establish a branch of the successful business he owned with longtime friend, Charles Ellis. When they returned to Richmond in 1820, the Allans moved in with the Ellis family at their home at the corner of Franklin and Second Street.

Ellis later purchased the eastern end of the property across the street to establish a garden, which became known for its lush rose garden, jas-mine and linden trees. Poe played in the garden with the Ellis children and courted his first love, Elmira Royster, among the luxurious blooms. They became engaged, but Royster eventually broke Poe’s heart when she married someone else. Legend has it that the second version of his famous poem, To Helen, refers to that “enchanted garden” and first love.

Poe wrote that second poem in 1848 for poetess Sarah Helen Whit-man as a Valentine’s Day card and later became engaged to her briefly. However, in an odd twist of fate, Royster, who was his first fiancée, also his last. Poe proposed to the widow for the second time shortly before his death in 1849.

Today, the Linden Row Inn – a collection of seven pre-Civil War row homes named for those linden trees in the Ellis garden – sits on the very same tract of land where Poe played with the Ellis children and romanced his first love. And it’s still known for its enchanting courtyard garden, one of the most romantic gardens in the city and the site of many weddings. n

At Linden Row InnB y G i n g e r W a r d e r

“Once a lush garden where Edgar Allan Poe fell in love, the historic Linden Row Inn is a window into Richmond’s past."

Photos courtesy of The Poe Museum, www.poemuseum.org


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Yesterday


West End's Best

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