JULY/AUG 2012 Hanover Lifestyle

2 July/August 2012

Tomato Features!7 A Slice of Tradition The Hanover Tomato Festival Serves Up Fun and Flavor10 Hanover Tomato Recipes 12 All for the Love of a Tomato The Story of Gentleman Farmer Bruce Haynes

Flavor15 Maitre D’ Restaurant Guide

16 Discount Cards

21 Sapori Brings Two Contintents Together

22 In Search of Hanover Tomato Dishes

25 Virginia is for Music Lovers

26 Scoop Du Juor

27 Calendar of Events

Business Watch28 All for theThrill of the Hunt

Aboutourcover:Our special Hanover tomato issue celebrates the community’s love and pride in its special tomato and festival. Our cover features Hanover tomato farmer Bruce Haynes. Read about what it’s like to be a tomato farmer on page 12. Photo by David Lee.

Around the House30 Smart Design with Budgets in Mind

Health32 The Stuff Dreams Are Made Of

What’s Cook In33 Like Mother Like Son

Business Watch35 Tips for Aging Gracefully: How We Live

4 July/August 2012

Contents

A Publication Of:

All Articles And cOntents Of this MAgAzine Are nOt necessArily the OPiniOns Or

thOughts Of hAnOver lifestyle MAgAzine, Advertising cOncePts, inc., Or the Publisher.

Hanover Lifestyle Magazine is published bi-monthly by Advertising Concepts, Inc.,

6301 Harbourside Drive, Midlothian VA 23112.(804) 639-9994. www.advertisingconceptsinc.com

Email us: [email protected] to the editor are welcome. All rights

reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photograph or illustration without writ-ten permission from the publisher is prohibited.

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER

William J. Davis, Jr.

VICE-PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER

Cheryl T. Davis

CONTRIBUTINGHOME & GARDEN EDITOR

Vicki O’Neal, ASID, CID

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Alaina Rauth

MARKETING MANAGER

Lorraine Meade

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Barry Cook

ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS

Jared Davis, Ann Small

PHOTOGRAPHER

Tim Hill

Robert Thomas

CONTRIBUTORS

Steve Cook, Tammie Wersinger,

Jody Rathgeb, Nancy Dyer,

Meagan Moore, Jennifer Saunders,

David Lee

www.RichmondNavigator.com 5

6 July/August 2012

A Slice of Tradition

By Jody Rathgeb

The Hanover Tomato Festival Serves Up Fun And Flavor

Y o u c a n ’ t g r o w a H a n o v e r t o m a t o u n l e s s Y o u p l a n t i t i n H a n o v e r c o u n t Y . There’s something about that sandy coastal-plain soil that produces a tomato

with just the right balance of sweetness and acidity to make it special.

Equally special is the homegrown festival that has become the county’s sig-

nature event. Now in its 34th year, the Hanover Tomato Festival is still, at heart, a

community celebration. It just happens to also draw about 40,000 people.

The festival, which began as a fund-raiser for the Black Creek Volunteer

Fire Department, has remained true to its roots, says Marcy Durrer, Recreation

Program Director for Hanover County Parks and Recreation. “It’s still a commu-

nity event, but now we have four presenting sponsors, a partnership,” she says.

And the profits, after the festival’s bills are paid, still go to the fire department.

This year’s event is on July 14 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Pole Green Park,

Mechanicsville. As always, it will take place rain or shine, there is no admission

fee and it’s family- and pet-friendly (leashes required for pets). In the tomato

tent, centrally located, all tomatoes for sale are genuine Hanovers; the sole seller

is Dodd’s Acres Farm in Hanover County, which supplies many local grocery

stores with tomatoes.

As the festival has grown, so have its events. There is now a food court, music,

children’s activities and plenty of arts, crafts and food vendors. Over the years

the location has shifted with the need for more space until it landed at Pole

Green, the largest county park in the Mechanicsville area. But, notes Durrer, “its

core element and the supplier have never changed over 34 years.” She adds

that all food vendors are encouraged to provide at least one item that includes

Hanover tomatoes.

Not a fan of tomatoes? That’s no reason to skip this festival. The entertain-

ment alone is a draw. This year’s lineup includes Acousti Pops, the Western

Hanover Boys (bluegrass), Richmond School of Rock and the Hanover Concert

Band.

There are also the contests and some goofy fun. Growers can compete for

their tomatoes to be named largest, smallest, ugliest or best-tasting, among other

categories, and there are other

competitions for cooks. Kids can

decorate tomatoes for the Best-

Dressed Tomato Contest, enter

a coloring contest or compete

to be named Little Miss

or Tiny Miss Hanover

Tomato. And entertainer

Jonathan Austin will be

on hand with his magic-

and-humor act.

Besides, picky eater,

you might be persuad-

ed to taste some of the

tomato offerings and

become a convert. That’s

what happened to Durrer when she first began

working with the festival. “Before then, I don’t

think I had ever had anything other than a BLT.

A food vendor told me I just had to try his fried

green tomatoes. I was skeptical, but I’ve been

hooked ever since on those fried green toma-

toes.” She says she and her husband now even

grow tomatoes in their garden.

And is it true that a tomato grown even a few

feet over the county line isn’t a Hanover tomato?

“Technically, it’s not,” Durrer says flatly. She notes

that people do get confused by the name, think-

ing that a Hanover tomato is a variety, like the

Big Boy or plum tomatoes. It’s not. You cannot

buy Hanover tomato seedlings. But magically,

any tomato put into the soil of Hanover County

becomes this top-tasting tomato.

Even though the tomatoes are always won-

derful, the conditions for a festival aren’t always

so. Last year, for example, the area had three days

of rain just before festival day. “Some areas were

like a mud bog!” Durrer relates. Fortunately, the

sun came out on T-day and visitors were able

to enjoy a day without rain. “We hope Mother

Nature cooperates this year.”

For information, directions or guidelines on

entering one of the festival’s contests, visit www.

hanovertomatofestival.com. n

• We’ve been remodeling bathrooms for 10+ years.

• We do not use subcontractors.

• We have a showroom full of fi nished bathrooms as well as professional consultants to help you with your selections.

• We take pride in our work and the care we give your home.

• We’re licensed and insured.

• We offer a FREE Consultation.

• We will provide you with references upon request.

Open Monday–Friday, 9 am to 7 pm

Saturday, 9 am to 1 pm

Why choose Trinity Renovations, Inc. for your next remodel?

6102 Brashier Boulevard, Suite H, Mechanicsville, VA 23111 | www.trinityrenovationsinc.com | (804) 318-1907


10 July/August 2012

raY’s salsa DeligHtFrom the Kitchen of Raymond Hayes of

Beaverdam, VA. 2nd Place in a 2010 Hanover

Tomato Contest.

8 medium size Hanover Tomatoes

1 red bell pepper

1 yellow bell pepper

½ green bell pepper

1 orange bell pepper

3 jalapeno peppers

4 serrano peppers

1 pasilla pepper

¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves, diced

1 small red onion, diced

1 small white onion, diced

1 tsp. cumin

1 6 oz. can tomato paste

Juice from 1 medium lime

3 tsp. crushed garlic

1 tsp. kosher salt

1 tsp. oregano

1. Roast the bell peppers, serranos, and jala-

peno peppers on the grill until black on all

sides. Smoke with mixture of Mesquite and

hickory chips on coals, if available. Place

roasted peppers in container until room

temperature, then place in the fridge for

half an hour. Remove the skin and seeds

and core. Dice all the roasted peppers.

2. Scald and peel Hanover tomatoes, then

dice.

3. Place above ingredients into a pan and

slow cook, adding the garlic, oregano, and

cumin.

4. Remove from heat and add the juice of

one lime. Pour salsa into a container and let

cool. n

tomato-pineapple salsaFrom the Kitchen of Let Jackson of

Mechanicsville, VA. 2nd Place in a 2010 Hanover

Tomato contest.

3-4 medium Hanover tomatoes, diced

¼-1/2 a jalapeno, chopped small

½ red onion, diced

¼ c. chopped cilantro

1 Tbsp. vinegar

1 can pineapple slices, diced

Salt, pepper and hot sauce to taste

1. Mix all together and refrigerate over-

night.

tom’s salsaFrom Tom Frazier of Mechanicsville, VA

1st Place in a 2011 Hanover Tomato contest.

6 medium-large Hanover tomatoes

5 jalapeno peppers

1 Tbs. chopped cilantro

½ tsp. salt

1 ½ large Vidalia onions

Juice from ½ lime

¼ cup. Sherry vinegar

1. Blanch, peel and core tomatoes. Rough

chop four of the tomatoes and one onion.

Rib, seed and medium chop the jalapenos.

Mix in large bowl. Add salt. Transfer to food

processor. Pulse until well mixed. Do not

over pulse.

2. Finely chop the remaining tomatoes

and onion. Saute with olive oil over

medium heat until onions are trans-

lucent and most of the liquid is

cooked off (about 5 minutes).

3. Mix cooked and raw ingredi-

ents. Add the sherry vinegar and

the lime juice. Chill and serve.

The Hanover Tomato Just Consider the Possibilities

Each summer the competition heats up at the Hanover Tomato Festival for the best recipe using Hanover’s prize produce–the tomato. Here are some of the best salsa

winners from previous years to try at home. There’s something for every taste. Just add chips!


Upscale furniture, art, home accessories &

hand bags too!

Hours: Tues-Fri 10:30-7Sat 10:30-6 • Sun 12:30-4

6493 D Mechanicsville TnpkMechanicsville, VA 23111

804-690-5707

Perfect SpacesConsignment Gallery

Save with

our coupon

on page 16!

12 July/August 2012

My favorite story is the one my husband tells of his first attempt as a child entrepreneur. At the

age of five, he saved his pennies for a year and bought a red Radio Flyer Wagon for ten dollars. When the family’s garden fresh tomatoes were ready to pick, he loaded his wagon and pulled it door to door, attempt-ing to sell his load of red, ripe fruit. He struggled with his load all day, up and down the nearby country roads knocking upon one door after another. The tow-headed, blue-eyed boy never sold a single tomato. Disappointed, he arrived home in tears unable to understand why he had failed to sell his favorite fruit. His mother hugged him, wiped away his tears and explained that living in the country, money was tight and everyone grew their own tomatoes. Fortunately, the failed attempt to earn spending money didn’t discourage the youngster; he later tried to sell Grit newspa-pers with equally pathetic results.

Today, sixty years later, not as many folks grow tomatoes in their backyard gar-dens and you can buy tomatoes anytime of the year thanks to world wide shipping. However, if you want a tasty tomato, and I mean bursting with flavor then it must come fresh from the local Hanover soil.

Door-to-door deliveries of fresh toma-toes by little boys pulling red wagons are hard to get so I recommend you go to the Ashland Farmers Market on Saturday mornings. You can meet local growers like gentleman farmer, Bruce Haynes. He offers his tasty vine ripened tomatoes there every weekend during season. What he doesn’t consume he sells, hand picking his produce a day or two before market so it’s fresh and intense with flavor.

Bruce comes from a long line of tenant farmers and discovered he loved growing plants during his youth, in Laurel. Fresh out of the Army in 1971, Bruce started growing his own tomatoes. In 1999 he bought the ten-acre Red Dog Farm, part of the 300-year-old Quietude Plantation in Old Church.

All for the Love of a TomatoThe Story of Gentleman Farmer, Bruce HaynesBy Nancy Pellicer Dyer


ashland Farmers market

101 Thompson St.

Ashland, VA. 23005

Open Saturdays 9-12

Berry’s produce

9592 Chamberlayne Rd.

Mechanicsville, VA. 23116

Brannan’s pa pa’s produce

5052 Studley Road


Look for the red wagon

cheryl’s produce #1

Rt. 660 (Winns Church Rd.) and Rt. 33

(Mountain Rd.)

Ashland, VA. 23005

cheryl’s produce #2



Dodd’s acres Farm

4077 Market Rd.


Hanover Farm and garden



Hanover vegetable Farm

13580 Ashland Rd.

Ashland, VA. 23005

pole green produce

6547 Pole Green Rd.


rocking F Farms

10545 Hanover Courthouse Rd.

Hanover, VA 2306

Over the years Bruce has perfected his growing techniques. He uses no chemical pesticides nor genetically modified seeds or plants. In a quest to find perfect varie-ties for his garden he tries new and different heirloom tomatoes every year.

Bruce explains what makes the Hanover tomatoes so special, “They appeal to more people because of the way the soil affects them. If you grow one variety in your backyard it will taste different than the same variety grown in someone else’s backyard. Hanover soil produces the best taste in more varieties.”

Bruce will tell you he likes the Brandywine tomato the best because it is meaty, not too juicy, it cooks well, and is best for a tomato sandwich. He sells his Brandywine tomatoes in addition to other delicious varieties at Saturday’s market; just ask him what he recommends this week. The Brandywine, like many heirlooms varieties does not transport well or keep for long periods of time so you have to grow your own or buy it locally.

For the backyard gardener, Bruce recommends trying a variety of tomatoes to find the one that tastes best from your garden’s soil. Avoid using the garden hose on your plants; the splashed soil causes blight. Instead, use a watering can at the base of the plant every other day. A soil covering of mulch, straw, plastic or even newspaper will help warm the roots giving you delicious results.

Bruce Haynes sells his Red Dog Farm tomatoes from the back of his pickup truck, instead of a red Radio Flyer Wagon, at the Ashland Farmers Market on Saturday mornings. Just get in line behind me. n

wHere to BuY tastY Hanover tomatoes

Bruce explains that a ‘gentleman farmer’ is a guy who never plants more than his wife & kids can weed.

www.millquarter.comOpen to public year round. • Booking in advance recommended.

$19

After 3 pm, Monday–Friday.

Must present this coupon.Limit one coupon per visit.

Expires 9/9/12

per person with cart up to 4 players $24

After 3 pm,Saturday, Sunday and holidays.

Must present this coupon.Limit one coupon per visit.

Expires 9/9/12

per person with cart up to 4 players

Take a shot at our 18-hole Championship Course

Book a Tee Time Today!

804.598.4221

1525 Mill Quarter Road in historic Powhatan

14 July/August 2012

Awful Arthur’sGet a taste of the sea any way you want it at Awful Arthur’s. From the raw bar or on a bun to over pasta or salad, you’re sure to find an entree to suit your tastes. Or design a platter of your favorites grilled, blackened, broiled or fried! 6078 Mechanicsville Tpke. 559-4370.www.awfularthurs.com

Gus’ Italian Cafe& Sports BarThe place where good friends, good food and fun come together. You’ll come in for the 13 TV screens showing all of your favorite games. You’ll come back for the excellent pizza, wings and the big, juicy burgers. Hanover Square Shopping Center.1139-A Bell Creek Rd. 730-9620.

Plaza AztecaThis new Richmond favorite is making its way to Hanover with its new location. Try their Molcajete Azteca–a hot stone filled with ribeye steak, chicken, shrimp, poblano peppers, onions, chunks of pineapple, and honey pasilla sauce. Pair it with a Texas margarita and tableside guacamole for the full experience! 10099 Brook Road,

Bell CafeStop by Bell Cafe for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a cappucinno and homebaked dessert! With house made soups, organic local salads, gourmet sandwiches, and fine dining entrees, you’ll find a new favorite at Bell Cafe. Wash it down with a craft beer or glass of wine.The Shoppes at Bell Creek. 746-4647.BellCafe.net

Mi JaliscoCome liven up your taste buds! Enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine such as fajitas, margaritas, tacos and burritos, in a family friendly atmosphere with great service. And be sure to save room for dessert!

9523 Kings Charter Drive.Ashland. 550-4744.

Baker’s CrustBreakfast, lunch and dinner selections showcase fresh-baked artisan breads and seasonal ingredients. Take advantage of a creperie where unique, flavorful crepes are hand-spun to order. Or have them cater your next event.Short Pump Town Center. 377-9060.BakersCrust.com

Maitre D’ Restaurant Guide

Old Fashioned BBQ Sandwich & Tomato Soup. Get your tomato fix with this tomato and roasted red pepper soup.

Virginia pork is hickory smoked and hand-pulled onsite. Find it at

Farmer Johnson’s at 7610 Left Flank Road, Ste. 200. (farmerjohnsons.com)

Photo by Robert Thomas. Find more ISO Dishes at richmondnavigator.com.

Dining | nigHTLiFE | EVEnTS | TRAVEL | SPORTS | THE ARTS

Any Purchase Over $5Limit one per visit.

$1 OFF

9523 Kings Charter Dr. I Ashland I 368-0734 I luluscreamery.com See Ad on Page 26

15% OFFEntire Check

$5 OFFPurchase of $25 or More

9523-B Kings Charter Drive | 804.550.4744 | mi-jalisco.com | See Ad on Page 19

Any Purchase10% OFF

6493 D Mechanicsville Tnpk. I 690-5707 l See Ad on Page 11

Full ServiceOil ChangeOffer Expires 9/10/12

$1000 OFF

9080 Atlee Station Rd. | 804.569.1888 | lubetechoil.com | See Ad on Page 13

LUBE TECH10 Minute Oil Change Center

& 24 Hour Car Wash

Buy One Entree andGet 2nd Entree 1/2 OFF**Equal or lesser value.

1/2 OFF

Hanover Square Shopping Center | 730-9620 | See Ad on Page 26

GUS’ITALIAN CAFE

& SPORTS BAR

One coupon per customer. Not valid with any other offer. Expires 9/1/12.

7225 Bell Creek Rd., Ste 238 I 804.746.5555 I See Ad on Page 2

10% OFFAny Spa RepairNow thru August 31, 2012.

Buy one piece of furniture and get 50% off the second piece of equal or lesser value. Good for July and August 2012.

Buy One, Get One

50% OFF

8235 Mechanicsville Tnpk. | 746-7781 | See Ad on Page 14

Home-MakersFurniture

Your Hometown Discount Furniture Store

Flavor16

Any $25 Purchase

$500 OFF

Any $50 Purchase

$1000 OFF

Offer ends 7/31/12.

120 Thompson St. | 804.798.8431 | ashlandfeedstore.com | See Ad on Page 5

bellecottagellc.com I See Ad on Page 24

Buy One, Get One

1/2 OFFon Kringle Candles

First Mosquito Treatmentor Fall Aeration, Seeding and Fertilization Service

$25 OFF

795-5564 I greenercreations.com I See Ad on Page 36

Limit one per person.

With Purchase of an Entree

FREE Dessert

The Shoppes at Bell Creek | 746-4647 | bellcafe.net | See Ad on Page 20

Bell Cafe

Total Dinner Check10% OFF

7154 Mechanicsville Tnpk. | 804.332.2403 | saporicuisine.com | See Ad on Page 20

17R i c h mo n d N a v i g a t o r .c o m

Flavor18

Like Mother like son

Check out Steve’s Daily Ramblings at richmondnavigator.com/steve-cooks-daily-ramblings

I’m sitting here, pretending to be writing a column, when my daughter makes a statement to me that may explain why noth-ing is striking me as especially funny these days.

“You are slowly turning into your mother,” she says with all seriousness. Now, first of all, some people think it’s wrong to criti-cize those who are no longer living. But, I say, when would be a better time to criticize? She can’t accuse me of making this up.

Don’t get me wrong. My mother had a good sense of humor, but she did get easily irritated. And, according to my daughter, I do too.

But, let me explain to you what prompted my daughter’s re-mark and you tell me if you don’t see it my way.

She was watching Dr. Phil as I pretended to type at the dining room table. Dr. Phil’s guest was an ornery old woman who kept re-buking him. She wouldn’t shut up. It seemed so staged that I made the comment that I was sure the producers had prodded the old woman to be rude. “Dr. Phil is getting to be just like Jerry Spring-er,” I said. I thought it was a valid comment. On Jerry’s show, you know they stage those pro-wrestling like fights.

That’s when my daughter made the assertion that I was evolv-ing into my mother. “Grandma used to say that everyone was get-ting to be like Jerry Springer from Maury Povich to Steve Wilkos.”

Of course, this wasn’t the only subject my mother had strong opinions on. Shortly before she got too ill to get out of bed, she had a dinner party. She loved having huge crowds over for dinner. Anyway, on this one occasion, there were a couple of guests with cell phones who were playing Words with Friends with each other, as they sat in the living room. Admittedly, they were not the most convivial guests of the evening, but when they left, I made the simple comment that I thought everything had gone rather well.

“Can you believe it,” my mother said indignantly, “playing Scrabble on their phones while they were sitting here.”

“Oh, that wasn’t so bad,” I said in my typical Pollyanna-like way.

“I think it’s the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever seen in my life,” she said, heading up to her bed.

It wasn’t just that my mother had gotten old and crotchety. Al-though in her later years, she did say that the nice thing about be-ing old is that you could say anything you wanted. That’s kind of the way my mother was.

I just realized that those Scrabble play-ers may read this and recognize them-selves. Fortunately, they can’t say anything, because, after all, it’s not nice to criticize those no longer living. n

americanCold Harbour Restaurant8153 Mechanicsville Tpke. Mechanicsville.746-4333. Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In. Casual.Reservations not needed.

Farmer Johnsons7610 Left Flank Road. 559-0111.www.farmerjohnsons.comLunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take-Out. Casual

The Hanover Cafe13185 Hanover Courthouse Rd. Hanover.537-5290. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In. Casual. Reservations not needed.

Hanover Tavern Restaurant & Pub13181 Hanover Courthouse Road. Hanover.537-5050. www.hanovertavern.org.Brunch, Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take out.Casual. Reservations suggested.

Ironhorse Restaurant100 N Railroad Ave. Ashland. 752-6410.www.ironhorserestaurant.com.Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take out.Casual. Reservations not needed.

O’Banks Café & Grill10392 Leadbetter Rd. Ashland. 550-3888. www.obanks.org.Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take out.Casual. Reservations not needed.

Riverbound Cafe8005 Creighton Parkway. Mechanicsville.559-3663. www.riverboundcafe.com.Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In. Casual.Reservations not needed.

barbecueVirginia BBQ Company600 England Street. 752-4838. www.virginiabbq.com.Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take out. Casual.Reservations not needed.

chineseAsian BuffetLaburnum Square Shopping Center. 4734 Finlay Street. 804-222-8545. Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take out. Casual. Reservations not needed.

Ginger Red Asian Bistro7500 Jackson Arch Dr. Mechanicsville. 427-7256. www.GingerRed.com.Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In, Take-out & Delivery.Casual. Reservations not needed.

Peking Restaurant7100 Mechanicsville Tnpk. 730-9898. www.pekingdining.com.Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take out. Casual. Reservations not needed.

19R i c h mo n d N a v i g a t o r .c o mFor more restaurants:

coffee, tea & bakeryAshland Coffee & Tea100 N. Railroad Avenue. 798-1702. www.ashlandcoffeeandtea.com.Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch & Dinner.Dine-In & Take out. Casual. Reservations not needed.

Homemades By Suzanne102 N. Railroad Avenue. 798-8331.www.homemadesbysuzanne.com.Breakfast & Lunch. Dine-In & Take out. Casual. Reservations not needed.

deli & light farePadow’s Hams and Deli8161 Atlee Road. Mechanicsville. 569-1610.Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take out. Casual. Reservations not needed.

Tropical Smoothie Cafe7152 Mechanicsville Tnpk. 569-9707. www.tropicalsmoothie.com.Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In, Take out & Delivery. Casual. Reservations not needed.

germanParkway Restaurant7211 Stonewall Pkwy. Mechanicsville. 789-9500.www.parkwayrest.com.Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In. Casual. Reservations not needed.

italianAnthony’s Pizza Restaurant No 2111 N Washington Hwy. Ashland. 798-3181.Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take out.Casual. Reservations not needed.

Brick Oven Pizza & Restaurant139 Hill Carter Parkway. 798-0495.Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take out. Casual. Reservations not needed.

Gino’s Pizza13234 Hanover Courthouse Rd. 537-5003.Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take out. Casual. Reservations not needed.

Gus’ Italian CaféHanover Square Shopping Center.Mechanicsville. 730-9620.www.facebook.com/gusitaliancafeLunch & Dinner. Dine-In. Casual. Reservations not needed.

Mimmo’s8319 Bell Creek Road. Shoppes at Bell Creek. 569-3990. www.mimmosrestaurant.com.Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In & Take out. Casual. Reservations not needed.

Pizzaro Flame Baked Pizza & Grill9966 Brook Road. Glen Allen. 627-0003.www..pizzaropizza.com.Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In. & Take out. Casual.

Call 804-639-9994 to be added to our dining guide in

Hanover Lifestyle Magazine and on RichmondNavigator.com.

mexican & southwestEl Azteca103 N Washington Hwy. Ashland.798-4652. www.elaztecamr.net.Dine-In & Take out. Casual. Reservations not needed.

The Patron7610 Left Flank Road804-559-6745Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In or Take Out. Casual

seafoodAwful Arthur’s6078 Mechanicsville Tnpk. 559-4370. www.awfularthurs.com.Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In. Casual.

Islamorada Fish Company11550 Lakeridge Parkway. 496-4800.www.fishcompany.comLunch & Dinner. Dine-In. Casual.

steak & chop housePonderosa809 England St. Ashland. 798-8205.Lunch & Dinner. Dine-In. Casual. Reservations not needed.

Flavor20

7154 Mechanicsville Turnpike, Mechanicsville VA804-332-2403 | saporicuisine.com

MON - THU 11:30A - 3:00P & 5:00-9:00P | FRI - SAT 11:30A - 10:00P | SUN 11:30A - 9P

There’s a new diningexperience in Mechanicsville

Mention this ad for

10% OFF Your Dinner Check


STARTERS

portobello galloping, grilled and

simmered in balsamic vinegar.

Served with diced tomatoes and

melted gorgonzola cheese.

tostones, topped with choice

beef, chicken, or ham and cheese.

ceviche. Flounder filet, cooked in

lemon juice, ginger, red onions and

Spanish spices.

ENTREES

crab and shrimp cannelloni cooked in a white wine topped

with bechamel sauce and cheese.

pabellon. Shredded beef, with rice,

black beans and sweet plantains.

steak al pepe nero with a light

peppercorn sauce, with gnocchi in

parmesan sauce and broccoli rabe’.

DESSERTS

limoncello cream caketres leches or tiramisu

SIGNATURE DRINKSpeach Bellini. A frozen mixture of

peach schnapps and Champagne.

matador. Red sangria mixed with

frozen peach Bellini.

SAPORI Brings Two Continents Together for One Great Meal

A TASTEof the Menu

A fter working in Virginia restaurants for

more than a decade, Yofre Blanco has re-

alized his dream of owning his own place

– Sapori Italian and Latin Cuisine in Mechanicsville.

The Venezuelan native decided to open the

eatery at 7154 Mechanicsville Turnpike after re-

searching the local market and finding that there

was nothing similar to what he wanted to offer

area diners.

“I wanted to open a place that was very nice

and modern, with a city vibe, to offer the best quali-

ty fresh foods,’’ Blanco said. “We’re fusing real Italian

and South American cuisine and giving customers

an opportunity to try something truly unique.”

To help plan the menu and make sure his dream

came to fruition, Blanco brought on board execu-

tive chef Christian Illanes – a native of Chile who

has spent his career in upscale Italian restaurants.

“We know this is a unique concept, and peo-

ple have been really loving it,’’ Blanco said. “And, I

love that they are coming here to try our delicious

menu.

“Many come in for Italian food, but try a Latin

dish, or vice-versa. Either way, they leave satisfied,”

he added.

Sapori’s menu

offers everything

from classic pas-

tas, Lobster Ravioli,

Crab and Shrimp

Cannelloni from Ita-

ly to Ceviche, Lomo

and Pollo Saltado

from Peru. There’s also Minestrone Chileno and Em-

panadas from Chile, Tostones, Arepas and Pabellon

from Venezuela. They also offer a variety of chicken,

seafood, veal and steaks dishes.

In addition to the diverse menu, there are daily

lunch, dinner and drink specials, Saturday and Sun-

day brunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.. Kids 5 and under

eat free if you order from the kid’s free menu. You

can also visit www.saporicuisine.com and check all

menus and specials there.

Blanco said he hopes that the great prices,

along with the varied and flavorful menu will make

his customers happy and keep them coming back.

“There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing

people leave with a smile on their face,” he said. “If I

can do that with just one person then my day was

a success.” n

By Tammie Wersinger. Photos by Tim Hill.

IN SEARCH OFRESTAURANTS

CREATIONS USING THE

Hanover Tomato

1.chicken caprese

Hanover tomatoes sliced thick are served

with fresh basil and buffalo mozzarella.

Top it off with seasoned grilled chicken

and a balsamic reduction.marty’s grill • 9357 atlee road

559-1323 • martysgrill.com

2. tomato pie

This savory pie features Hanover

tomatoes layered with fresh basil, ricotta,

parmesan reggiano and fresh mozzarella.Hanover tavern & pub • hanovertavern.org

537-5250 • 13181 Hanover courthouse road

Photos by Robert Thomas.

Flavor22

1

2

3. Fried green tomatoes

A Southern classic, Hanover tomatoes

are dipped in a buttermilk batter and

hand breaded

Farmer Johnson’s • 559-0111

7610 left Flank road, ste. 200

farmerjohnsons.com

4. gazpachoThis refreshing, chilled summer

soup features Hanover tomatoes complimented by Hanover cucumbers, red onions, Serrano peppers, lime juice,

cilantro, and red bell pepper.iron Horse restaurant

100 s. railroad avenue • ashland

752-6410 • ironhorserestaurant.com

5. west coast style pizza

Combine the “Gold Coast” tradition of

serving fresh tomatoes on top of your

piping hot pizza with the inimitable

Hanover tomato for a local twist.

gold coast pizza • 155 Junction Drive, ashland

752-7760 • gold-coast-pizza.com

23R i c h mo n d N a v i g a t o r .c o mFor more In Search Of:

4 5

3

Flavor24

B E L L E C O T T A G E L L C . C O MB E L L E C O T T A G E L L C . C O M

CHECK OUT OUR NEWAND EXPANDED LINES!

Vera Bradley

Lilly Pulitzer

Baggallini

Tervis Tumblers

Hen House Linens

Scout

Kringle Candles

Dansko

Halia Jewelry(compatible with Pandora)

Kameleon Jewelry

NOWOFFERING

MONOGRAMMING!

early orthodontic Treatment: When and Why? Part I

Straightening teeth is what the orthodontist does. But ask the questions posed above and you’ll discover that it’s not so easy to get

straight answers. So let’s try to unravel this mystery. In years

past, the orthodontist waited for the eruption of all the permanent teeth prior to beginning treatment. Meet orthodontists of Baxter Perkinson and Associates (l to r): Dr. Richard Marcus, Dr. Dale Rogers, Dr. Allison Purcell, Dr. Dwight Buelow

People still need braces, and in fact a large number of adults, nearly 30% of orthodon-tic patients, are adults. But things have now changed.

Admittedly, the reasons for early treatment vary from patient to patient, but generally speaking, early treatment, called interceptive orthodontics, is required when one or more major problems exist.

What constitutes a major problem? Basi-cally there are two types of problems, skeletal, and dental. In this issue, we’ll discuss dental problems. In our next issue, we’ll consider skeletal problems.

Dental problems are exactly what they sound like. For example, “buck” teeth can be brought back out of harm’s way with some limited orthodontic treatment in the form of partial braces.

Perhaps a baby tooth was lost too early. Your orthodontist can maintain the space in order to prevent crowding later on, or even regain the space thereby preventing an extrac-tion of a permanent tooth later. This doesn’t work every time, but in many cases, it sure is worth the try. Or maybe, a lower tooth is in front of an upper one. A retainer, or a short course of partial braces can correct this situa-tion. Usually simple, very specific treatments, to correct very specific problems, can alleviate an early dental problem.

Gum problems can be prevented as well. If a tooth comes into the arch in poor position, a short course of early treatment can often pre-vent loss of the gum tissue, and perhaps pre-vent the need for gum grafting later.

But, what if the problem isn’t with the teeth, themselves? We will discuss that in our next issue. n

Dr. Baxter Perkinson & Associates is a Group Practice of 40 Doctors Specializing in Orthodontics, Dental Implants, Prostodontics, Periodontics, Cosmetic and General Dentistry. With 10 Convenient locations in the Rich-mond Metro Area we can assist you in creating your youthful smile. For a location near you, visit wbperkinson.com.

VIRGINIA IS FOR

virginia BeacH. Not only does the city have

two great facilities for major live entertain-

ment events, but during the summer, the entire

Boardwalk area turns into a virtual concert hall.

Pamela Lingle, communications manager for the

city’s Convention and Visitors Bureau says that

there’s entertainment nightly along the waterfront,

both on Atlantic Avenue and in the park. “These

activities provide something for everyone in the

family,” she says. “And, it’s all free.” She also says the

twice weekly fireworks are always a big hit. (www.

visitvirginiabeach.com)

sandler center For the performing arts.

Opened in 2007, The Sandler Center is considered

to be both one of the nation’s most stunning

structures, as well as one of the most acoustically

sound performance venues.

tHe stars:

7/14 Air Supply

8/4 Gipsy Kings

Fmi: www.sandlercenter.org

Farm Bureau live nation. This 20,000 seat out-

door theater hosts about 40 major events every

year.

tHe stars:

7/14 Stevie Nicks

7/21 KISS and Motley Crue

7/26 Toby Keith and Brantley Gilbert

7/28 Nickelback

8/23 The Doobie Brothers and Chicago

8/24 Jason Aldean with Luke Bryan

Fmi: www.farmbureaulive.com

As the summer heats up, so does the slate of fantastic concerts around the state. With some of the

nation’s coolest music venues, offering the hottest acts (as well as some nostalgic blasts from the

past), there are bound to be a few that all of you will want to catch.

We go backstage to give you the scoop on the live entertainment coming to a theater (relatively)

near you over the next couple of months.

wolF trap. Wolf Trap’s founder, Catherine

Filene Shouse donated about 100 acres of

her farmland in Northern Virginia that was

to become the United States’ first and only

national park dedicated to the perform-

ing arts. The park houses several venues

including the Filene Center, the Barns at

Wolf Trap, and the Children’s Theater-in-

the-Woods.

the Filene center. The Filene Center, a

nearly 7,000 seat outdoor theater features

about 90 world class live events each sum-

mer.

tHe stars:

7/7 Hamlisch Goes Gershwin

7/19 The B52s

7/20 Johnny Mathis

7/22 John Tesh

8/1 George Thorogood & the Destroyers

8/2 The Temptations and The Four Tops

8/10 & 8/11 The Steve Miller Band

8/14 Lyle Lovett

8/16 & 8/17 Barry Manilow

8/23 Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons

8/24 Al Green and Taj Mahal

Fmi: www.wolftrap.org

portsmoutH. A visit to Portsmouth

provides an opportunity to travel

through three centuries of Virginia his-

tory. Many of the attractions, including

the Ntelos Pavilion, are within easy walk-

ing distance.

ntelos wireless pavilion. Both visi-

tors and performers love coming to this

waterfront pavilion, says marketing

director, Heather Fritz. “The atmos-

phere is fantastic,” she says, “and with

the breeze coming off the water it’s an

incredible experience.” The pavilion

offers 3500 seats under the tent as well

as lawn seating. And regardless of where

you sit, Fritz promises, “There’s not a bad

seat in the house.

tHe stars:

7/7 Crosby, Stills & Nash

7/29 Merle Haggard and Kris Kristofferson

8/10 ABBA (Tribute band)

8/22 Duran Duran

Fmi: http://www.pavilionconcerts.com

Music LoversBy Steve Cook


By Steve Cook

Flavor26

There’s a cozy, little coffee (and ice cream) shop that’s recently opened just off Sliding Hill Road in King’s Charter. Even if it didn’t offer deliciously fresh coffee beverages as well as all sorts of en-ticing ice cream desserts and milk shakes, LuLu’s Creamery would be a cool place to hang out.

“LuLu’s is a family affair,” says Steve Carlton, who along with his wife, Kathy, and son, Jack owns the business. After 30 years in retail, Carlton, who says he al-ways wanted to work for himself, as well as fill a niche in the community, opened the shop in February.

From the moment you enter, you can sense that Lulu’s is a fun, casual place to sit back, sip a beverage, and catch your favorite sporting event on one of the large screen TVs. Or, you might just want to relax and chat with a friend or neighbor, or take advantage of the free WiFi. The cheerful colors on the wall, complement-ed by tasteful artwork, help to create a very inviting atmosphere.

Carlton says women’s groups, writ-er’s clubs, and others meet in his shop from time to time. “We have a great staff and everyone is made to feel welcome,” he says. “The neighborhood kids can ride their bikes on over and do their home-work here or meet with their friends.”

Lulu’s opens at 6:30 weekday morn-ings (8:00 a.m. on the weekends) until 9:00 p.m. daily (‘til 10 on Friday and Sat-urday). Oh, and in case you were won-dering, Lulu is the family cat.

LuLu’s is located at 9523 Kings Char-ter Drive (368-0734). For more info, visit www.luluscreamery.com. n

Email restaurant news, new openings, menus, chefs and more to

[email protected].

CALENdAR OF EvENTSJ U L Y - A U G U S T

For more local events, visit www.richmondnavigator.com.

Photo courtesy Sports Backers.


patrick Henry Half marathonaugust 25. randolph macon campus.

The Sports Backers and Richmond Road

Runners Club have teamed up to bring

you the Patrick Henry Half Marathon. Jog

through 13.1 miles of rolling countryside

and scenic historic districts beginning

and ending on the Randolph Macon

Campus. Runners can register online at

www.sportsbackers.org until August 22.

ashland street partiesthe library plaza in ashland.

Summer in Ashland means the return

of Ashland Street Parties featuring live

music, golden beverages, and delicious

food. These events are a great way to meet

your neighbors and make friends in the

community! Stop by the Midsummer’s Eve

Street Party on July 21st to hear the party

band The Barracuda’s. Beach, Soul, and Rock

and Roll provides dancing music at the

August 18th party. And end summer with

the Granddaddy of All Parties on September

15th. All you need is a lawn chair and dancing

shoes! Visit ashlandstreetparties.com for more

information and details for each party.

the merry wives of windsor. July 5 -29.

Agecroft Hall. RichmondShakespeare.com

the national shows. Thenationalva.com

July 13: Neko Case. July 14: New Potato Caboose.

July 22: Clutch. July 25: Michael Franti & Spearhead.

July 29: Childish Gambino. August 3: BoomBox.

August 10: The Legwarmers.

innsbrook afterhours. SnagaJob Pavilion.

InnsbrookAfterhours.com

July 20: The Avett Brothers.

July 28: Bruce Hornsby and the Noisemakers.

July 29: Countryfest 2012.

August 8: Steve Miller Band.

August 15: Lynyrd Synard.

August 21: Matisyahu & Dirty Heads.

Jackson Browne. July 20. Richmond Centerstage.

RichmondCenterstage.com

Fresh music Festival. July 28.

Richmond Coliseum. Ticketmaster.com

ledisi and the B.g.t.Y. tour. August 3.

Richmond Centerstage. RichmondCenterstage.com

anthem moonlight ride. August 4.

Sportsbackers Stadium. SportsBackers.com

intergalactic Bead show. August 4-5.

Richmond Raceway Complex. BeadShows.com

watermelon Festival. August 5.

Carytown. CarytownRva.com

virginia outdoor sportsman show.

August 10-12. Richmond Raceway Complex.

SportsmanShow.com

Dralion cirque du soleil. August 8-12.

Richmond Coliseum. Cirquedusoleil.com/drailon

summer Boat and rv supersale. August 17-19.

Richmond Raceway Complex. GSevents.com

va 4x4 expo. August 18.

Richmond Raceway Complex. BigDogsOffRoad.com

Harvest wine Festival. September 1.

James River Cellars. JamesRiverCellars.com

Kem. September 6. Carpenter Theatre. Etix.com

nascar weekend. September 7-8.

Richmond Raceway Complex.

RichmondRacewayComplex.com

south african Food & wine Festival.

September 8-9. Grayhaven Winery.

Grayhavenwinery.com

Body worlds and the Brainthru september 23. science museum of virginia.

Featuring more than 200 authentic human specimens,

including 12 entire bodies posed in very real, action

positions, Body Worlds gives each visitor an opportunity

to reflect on the marvels of the human body. Be one of

the more than one millions people that have seen this

peek inside the human anatomy at one of the more than

50 museums worldwide. Parents want to use discretion,

although the exhibit is recommended only for ages eight

and up. For more information, visit smv.org.

BUSINESS WATCH

28 July/August 2012

All For the thrill of the Hunt By Meagan Moore.

Upcycle, verb, “repainting, re-staining, re-knobbing a piece of well-built furniture that doesn’t look good and converting it to one that’s well built and pretty again” (defined by the folks at Thrill of the Hunt).

Walk into Dana and Cathy Wood’s Ashland-based Thrill of the Hunt (TotH) and, you’ll experience what the Wood’s along with their daughter and son-in-law, Christan and Rob Silliman, have created. With its ever-changing stock of beautifully bright, upcycled vintage furniture and the radio tuned to Katy Perry, Adele, and Maroon 5, and you’re looking Ashland’s renaissance square in the face.

Often, people come in expecting to find a hunting ground for rescued antiques, but co-owner, Dana says, “While we have some antiques, we don’t classify ourselves as an antique store because that’s not who we are. Our floors are painted colorfully, we have bright, fun things in here, and that’s what we want to be . . . and what we do.”

And what they do doesn’t stop at retail sales. Got a sweet tooth? Indulge in their stock of classic candies. Downsizing? Consider consigning a few pieces to Thrill of the Hunt. Curious about upcycling? Just ask. Got an ugly bookcase with classic lines? Bring it by to get a quote on giving it a vivid, modern facelift.

The latter is perhaps the most exciting development for Cathy, as she reveals that TotH has been certified as an Annie Sloan Chalk Paint dealer, one of only 122 in this country. Cathy describes the finish as “perfect and satiny smooth,” and says she can’t wait to start using it and teaching others about it, too. n

thrill of the Hunt | 315 england street | ashlandthrillofthehuntva.com | 804-368-0184

AROUND THE HOUSE


cornerstone insurance named 2012 agency of

the Year by erie insurance

Mechanicsville, VA May 2012 – Erie Insurance awarded Cornerstone Insurance of Mechanicsville, VA with its 2012 Giving Network Agency of the Year Award for outstanding community service. In honor of the agency’s efforts, Erie Insurance donated $2,500 to The Faison School for Autism.

Doug Cox, principal of Cornerstone Insurance, has been attending charitable events held by The Faison School of Autism over the past several years. Doug has been touched by the school’s dedication of pro-viding the best chance and quality of life for each child affected by autism. The Faison School of Autism is located in Richmond, VA and was founded in 1998.

“The more you give the more you receive. The most precious gifts are not what can be held in your hand but what can be felt by your heart.” – Cornerstone Insurance

The Erie Insurance Giving Network Agency of the Year award recognizes inde-pendent agencies that demonstrate excep-tional commitment to the community through volunteerism.

Cornerstone Insurance is an independ-ent agency offering a full line of property, casualty, life, health and annuity insurance. Products offered by Erie Insurance include auto, homeowners, and business insurance as well as term, whole life and group life insurance.

serving all of central virginia

8052 elm Drive, suite c • mechanicsville, va

cornerstoneinsuranceva.com • 746-0950

Keeping Seniors Active & Independent

❂ Specially-trained caregivers that will give you peace of mind

❂ Safe, fun and social environment

❂ Structured and therapeutic group and individual activities

❂ Stimulating and active daily schedule

❂ Cozy and homelike environment

Caring Health Alternatives, better known as “Uncle Norm’s Place,” is a unique center geared toward seniors, providing:

Cozy and homelike environment

9555 Kings Charter Drive Ashland, VA 23005

(804) 412-2528

By Vicki O’Neal, ASID, CID, VSLD

with budgets

in mindQuick Fixes And Fresh Looks

Is there a design or decorating objective or project taking residence in your mind’s eye? Effective and cost-conscious design solutions require setting project clear objectives and, above all, establishing a budget. I always recommend creating a prioritized wish list that includes “have to haves,” “like to haves,” and “nice to haves.” Of course, there’s always “if I won the lottery”! This wish list might be for your whole home, or could be just for one area or your outdoor space. Let the planning begin!

coLorThe most cost-efficient, quick, and dramatic makeovers are simply made through a change in color.

A weekend warrior painting project can transform any space from drab to fab! Color is powerful, and even one wall sporting a bold accent color can do the trick. Strategically placing contrasting colors can sometimes expand the space visually, and provide just enough pizzazz yet not overwhelm. That said, like many facets of design, it’s not quite that simple. Choosing the perfect color for the effect you want can be challenging.

smart designs

30 July/August 2012

Vicki O’Neal, owner of FORM & FUNCTION, is a professional member of ASID, VA Certified Interior Designer (CID), Master Gardener, VA Certified Landscape Designer (VSLD) and Horticulturist.

The material contained in articles written by Vicki O’Neal is intended for general information only.

www.FandFdesign.com www.FandFdesign.com/blog 804.897.8558

About The Author

LiGhTinG The color, ambience, and safety of every space

are dramatically affected by lighting choices. Sim-ply changing light fixtures can have a surprisingly potent impact. I generally opt for the maximum wattage available in a particular fixture type or style and install dimmers to produce different ef-fects and moods. Recent federal government initi-atives have led to more innovations in the lighting industry than historically dreamed possible. LED fixtures are an amazingly energy efficient and long lasting choice, adding new creative opportunities. Always think safety first and have any work done by a licensed electrician.

doorsIf space is an issue, take a look at the doors

in a particular area or room. The doors and door swings sometimes take up a major amount of space and influence the traffic flow and placement of furniture. Here are some impactful modifica-tions and options:

1. It’s possible that a particular door is not even necessary and can simply be removed.

2. Sometimes hinging a door in the opposite direction can alter the space significantly enough to make a real difference. This simple technique may even create new space for a piece of needed furniture.

3. Adding a door or opening between adjacent spaces can create better flow and a sense of open-ness.

4. Conversely, in a space that has multiple openings, building a wall that closes one of the openings can create more intimacy and change the character of the area completely.

reuse, reneW, recYcLeI love applying these principles to furniture. With a little creativity and pa-

tience, outdated pieces can be reinvented, transforming discards into personal treasures with a story. Sometimes the redo is better than the original! Look for pieces with solid construction and interesting or desirable features and use your imagination! Converting an item for a special use, such as housing sound equip-ment, is a relatively easy update. Slipcovering an item can extend its life more cost effectively than reupholstering. Depending on the fabric selection, slipcovers can even be machine washable. Painting furniture is also a fun way to bring new life to a tired piece. n

Visit my blog for more creative and budget-conscious design ideas: http://www.fandfdesign.com/blog.

ABOVE: The character and layout of this family room was completely

transformed by repositioning the TV above the fireplace and closing

one door opening with drywall construction. Design by Vicki

O’Neal, ASID, CID.

RIGHT: Before construction.


HEALTH

32 July/August 2012

When we’re young we fight it. As adults we crave it. Many of us just don’t get enough of it. For some, sleep is the thing we fit into our schedule only after our obligations are met. Others of us log plenty of sleep hours but still don’t feel rested. Or we hit the hay at a

decent time but spend most of the night trying to fall – or stay – asleep. “We’re a sleep-deprived nation,” says Dr. Gerard Santos, MD; ABIM with a subspecialty in sleep

medicine and the Medical Director of Bon Secours Sleep Disorders Centers. According to Dr. Santos, sleep needs are individual, but most adults need a minimum of 6 hours or more a night. Yet, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that 30% of us don’t even get that, let alone the 7-9 hours the National Sleep Foundation recommends.

It’s worth it to get some solid snoozing. Getting regular and deep sleep has many health benefits, starting with being able to think clearly and manage stress all the way to fighting off infections, colds and flu and even controlling our risk for diabetes and heart disease. On the flip side, poor sleep can contribute to a higher risk for disease and accidents. It can even be a factor in weight gain.

Dr. Santos blames the poor sleep and weight gain connection on two hormones, leptin and ghre-lin, which help control our body’s appetite. Ghrelin sends the “I’m hungry” and leptin sends the “all full.” When you don’t get enough sleep, leptin’s signal doesn’t get through and ghrelin levels rise which causes you to feel hungry. Make too little sleep a habit, and you could be overeating on a regular basis.

What about people who don’t get enough sleep even when they try? There could be a number of reasons rest eludes them. Stress might keep their brain from “shutting down” for sleep. They might not have a good sleep routine or they could have a medical issue. According to the American Sleep Apnea Association, there are more than 80 types of sleep disorders. One of the most common is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) which affects an estimated 22 million Americans. People with OSA

have a disrupted breathing pattern which can disturb their sleep hundreds of times per night. It isn’t just annoying, it’s dangerous. Untreated sleep apnea has been connected to weight

gain, diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke and heart failure. The lack of restful sleep that goes hand-in-hand with OSA has also been linked to more than 100,000 car accidents

each year, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. So how can you tell if you’re just “tired like all the rest of us” or if you have a

sleep disorder that needs medical attention? “Unfortunately sleep issues are insidi-ous,” says Dr. Santos. “The symptoms aren’t always clear-cut, which is why it’s good to take a closer look. Diagnosing and treating a sleep disorder can prevent

problems and even get rid of some you’ve had for years.”

Sources: Bon Secours Sleep Disorders

Centers, www.bonsecours.com/our-

services-sleep-disorders-centers.

html; American Academy of

Sleep Medicine, Yoursleep.

aasmnet.org; American

Sleep Apnea Association,

sleepapnea.org; National

Sleep Foundation, www.

sleepfoundation.org; Centers

for Disease Control and

Prevention, www.cdc.gov.

How to Hit tHe HaY

make it routine. Go to bed and get

up at the same time every day, even

on weekends, to get your body into

a healthy sleep/wake cycle.

Don’t be distracted. Using your

bedroom as the TV room or office

can make it harder to fall asleep at

bedtime.

prepare for sleep. Finish up activi-

ties and turn off the TV. Relax by

soaking in a warm bath, listening to

quiet music or reading to help you

get ready to fall asleep.

Be comfortable. Draw the shades

or curtains; sleep on an allergen-

free mattress and pillow; use sheets

and blankets that keep you not too

hot or too cold.

watch what you eat. Going to

bed hungry or too full can make

it harder for you to fall asleep and

stay asleep.

avoid caffeine, nicotine and

alcohol. Caffeine is a stimulant

that can last for many hours so skip

afternoon and evening coffee, tea,

caffeinated soft drinks and choco-

late to get a better night’s sleep.

Nicotine and alcohol can also cause

sleep disruptions making you feel

less rested the next morning.

exercise regularly but not right

before bedtime. Getting regular

exercise can help you fall asleep

easier and wake feeling more

rested. But finish at least 3 hours

before bedtime so you have time to

wind down.

think of sleep medications in the

short term. Sleep medications may

help you fall asleep but they don’t

address the underlying causes of

insomnia. Some may also have side-

effects or cause dependency so talk

with your doctor.

the stuff Dreams are made of...How Skipping Shut-Eye Can Affect Your Health

By Jennifer Norvell Saunders

RichmondNavigator.com • facebook.com/RichmondNavigator

Dining. Entertainment. Savings.


34 July/August 2012


SENIOR LIvING

Aging GracefullyTIPS FOR

Par t 4 : How we live

By Steve Cook

F or some 60 years, the Baby Boomer gen-eration, that, by some estimates, is about 75-million strong, has been driving the

marketplace. It began with an increased demand for child care facilities and kindergartens. As the Boomers continued to grow up, their very pres-ence brought about a demand for more choices in everything from toys to electronics to automo-biles. Since they (we) were kids, it seems they wanted the coolest, the newest, the most unique.

But it didn’t stop there. Through the years, we’ve seen the market react to their impact. For instance, in recent years, have you noticed that there’s now a drug store on virtually every cor-ner? Why do you suppose that is. Yep, the Baby Boomers.

Well, now, they are at it again, demanding more diverse housing options. And, just as it has done for the past six decades, the marketplace is responding . As the older Boomers reach retire-ment age, they still want the coolest and the new-est. And, while the more traditional retirement homes are still around, today’s seniors have so many other options, from custom-built homes, designed with their specific needs in mind, to age

qualified communities, to assisted living facilities that are more like luxury hotels than “old-age homes.”

“Seniors want to be active, and want to be someplace that feels like ‘home’ to them,” says Jennifer Kelsey, director of marketing at Spring Arbor of Salisbury, in Midlothian. Spring Arbor is owned and managed by HHHunt Assisted Living, Inc. Kelsey describes the concept as, “a place where seniors can live independently and yet have the comfort of knowing that they will be provided with three meals a day.” Additionally, she says, “all of their house-keeping and laundry are taken care of. and there is 24-hour nursing staff on-site should they need help with medications or any assistance with the activities of daily living.”

Contrasting the assisted living concept with the more traditional nursing home environment, Leigh Herring, director of marketing at the Crossings at Ironbridge, in Chester says, “In an assisted living facility, residents bring their own furniture and decorate their room to their liking. Most rooms are car-peted. This gives assisted living communities more of a home-like feel.” Like Spring Arbor, The Crossings at Ironbridge also offers laundry and housekeep-ing services, as well as three meals a day.

“Residents are encouraged to have meals in our dining room which allows for social interaction,” says Herring.

Indeed, socialization is an important aspect of the assisted living concept. For most who choose such a facility, it’s not just about having help with the chores. Kelsey says her facility offers a wide variety of fun opportunities for active socialization. “They (the residents) love that we have a Wellness Spa that is open all day long, and they love our Cafe that is open 24-hours a day with coffee, juice, and snacks.”

While not all assisted living facilities are equipped to deal with dementia, both Spring Arbor and The Crossings at Ironbridge are. Leigh Herring says, “We have seen an increase in the need for a secured memory care neighbor-hood. If your loved ones are wandering out of the house or are unable to man-age their medications on their own, please know that you are not alone and that we are here to help.”

And of Spring Arbor’s “Cottage,” which provides specialized care for resi-dents dealing with Alzheimer’s or related dementia concerns, Jennifer Kelsey

The Crossings at Ironbridge in Chester offers a 24-hour cafe and relaxing patio.

Spring Arbor encourages seniors to live independently with peace of mind.

(Continues on page 36)

36 July/August 2012

(Continued from page 35)

says, “For the dementia care residents, the families have a definite need to know that their loved one will be well attended to based on their individual needs, and that they are in a safe, secure area at all times. Each Alzheimer’s/dementia-care resident is treated with respect and dignity.”

Based upon our discussions with both Kelsey and Herring, it would appear that most residents in assisted living communi-ties are in their seventies or older. However, even before that, many seniors are seeking housing options that can accommodate the changing needs that come during the later years.

Many want to continue owning their home, but their needs and desires have often changed significantly. In our next issue, we will explore other options includ-ing age-qualified communities as well as selecting a custom built home designed especially to meet the needs of the more mature homebuyer. n

3

Documents

JULY/AUG 2012 Hanover Lifestyle