Lynchburg Business Magazine Feb/March 2015

Congestive heart failure, or CHF, is a condition that affects nearly 6 million Americans. Heart failure does not mean that the heart has stopped working, however, it means that the heart’s pumping power is weaker than normal. Symptoms for CHF include:

The Centra Congestive Heart Failure Center provides patients with several tools to keep them healthy with reduced symptoms. From daily weight and blood pressure tracking to nutritional counseling and expertise, we’re here to help.

Consult your physician if you experience any of the above symptoms.

Understand the Symptoms of Congestive Heart Failure.

for more information:centrahealth.com/chf

1.877.MDLINK1

• Shortness of breath at rest or with exertion• Fatigue• Trouble breathing at night

• The need to sleep in a chair due to worsening shortness of breath• Swelling in feet/ankles/legs/stomach

Centra cardiologist Dr. Stephen Rennyson and Abby Newton, RN, offer everyday tools to reduce symptoms of congestive heart failure.

http://centrahealth.com/chf

Lipstick Style Power Bank

Keep your cell phone, iPod, MP3 player—and other devices that charge via USB—powered up at all times with the Lipstick Style Power Bank Charger. It’s easy to use - simply charge the backup battery charger using the included Micro-USB cable, and then connect your device via the USB 2.0 port for an extra boost. The backup battery charger is available in several vibrant, fun colors and will keep your device working at optimum performance levels at all times.

Auto Emergency ToolA handy product to have in the case of an emergency, this multi-function auto emergency tool comes with a flash light and tire gauge.

A great giveaway item for safety promotions and auto shops, customize this black and silver emergency tool with a tone on tone imprint of your company name or logo for maximum brand awareness. Make sure your clients are in good hands!

Contour TumblerDouble the impact with this snazzy Tumbler! This 16 oz. mug features double wall insulation, stainless steel liner, and slide lock lid. Comes in a one piece eco-friendly

gift box. Item may be customized with an imprint of company’s name or logo. Hand out at your next convention or tradeshow! FDA approved. Ideal for those that are always on-the-go! Available in 3 different colors.

Deluxe Nut TrioGourmet nut trio- over one pound of our premium nuts. For the nut lover, one of our premium nuts presented in our wooden tray. Entirely all natural of course! Includes all natural Brazilian jumbo cashews (the largest and most flavorful you’ve ever had), all natural California colossal pistachio nuts, and all natural California jumbo almonds.

For more information and prices call 757-422-8979 Ext 105, email us at [email protected] or find us on the web at

www.vistaspecialties.espwebsite.com

Bamboo Desktop OrganizerTidy up any cluttered workspace in natural style with this bamboo desktop organizer. This beautiful office accessory is constructed entirely of bamboo wood and offers six compartments and two drawers of versatile storage for paperwork, office supplies, stationery and much more.

Large Arched Jar & Salt Water TaffyHere’s a gift that’s worth its salt! Made out of glass, this large arched

jar features a round design and comes filled to the brim with salt water taffy. Contents are held secure with a natural wood lid. Makes a great gift during holidays and special occasions. This thoughtful and reusable treat can be appreciated by customers and co-workers alike. Recipients will hardly be able to “contain” themselves!

Bluetooth Item FinderAre you that person who is always misplacing keys or your cell phone? Well stop all that frustrating searching with our new Bluetooth item finder. Just download the app on your phone and never worry about losing your items again! Simply attach Chipolo onto your keys, wallet, bag or pet and with the press of a button on your Smartphone, the Chipolo tag will ring and directions will display on your phone. If you happen to loose track of your phone, shake the Chipolo and your phone will vibrate or ring to reveal its location. The Chipolo has a range of up to 200 feet and is compatible with both iPhone and Android. Each comes packed in a white box with a clear top and split ring.

Personalized Corporate Gifts

mailto:[email protected]

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TABLE OF CONTENTSFebruary/March 2015

20

44

28

48

NEWS BITES FEATURES

COLUMNS

8 BY THE NUMBERS

9 IN THE NEWS

11 PLUGGED IN

12 MOVERS & SHAKERS

13 LET’S DO LUNCHThe Neighbors Place

15 FINANCIALInvesting in 2015

19 LEGALRebuilding Credit

23 REAL ESTATECosts of Selling Your Home

31 HUMAN RESOURCESEmployee Depression

35 MARKETING & SALESTips to Improve Business Social Media

39 HEALTHCARETips for a Safe andHealthy Winter

16BUSINESS OVER 10

Beacon Credit Union

20GOING GREEN

Relay Foods

24AEC

Hurt & Proffitt

28EDUCATION

Lynchburg City Schools Career-Tech Program

32BUSINESS UNDER 10

Forest Direct Primary Care

36LEADERS OF LYNCHBURGDr. Christopher Swanson

40NONPROFIT

Goodwill Industries® of the Valley

44RETAIL

Duchess Bakery To Go

48TOURISM &

TRANSPORATIONLU Partners with Cessna

ON THE COVER: Dr. Chris Swanson, conductor of the Lynchburg Symphony Orchestra, this issue’s Leader of Lynchburg. Read more on page 36.

Photo by John Robinson

Photos By Jonny Hewitt

LynchburgBusinessMag.comFEBRUARY/MARCH 2015 5LynchburgBusinessMag.comFEBRUARY/MARCH 2015 5

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EDITOR’S LETTER

As I approached my first issue at the helm of Lynchburg Business, my mind kept returning to the concept of resolution and,

specifically, the meaning of the word “resolved”—meaning “firmly determined”—or, in my adaptation, not easily deterred. Now with one month of 2015 checked off, it’s a good time to reflect, reassess and resolve to accomplish one’s goals for the coming year. Here are a few I would suggest:

Resolve to think outside of the box. Take Dr. Douglas Farrago as an example. With years of experience as a family medicine physician, Dr. Farrago is now sidestepping the oft-complicated insurance realm and has opened a direct primary care office. He’s doing medicine differently, and people are responding. Read more about his innovative approach and philosophy of patient care on page 32.

Resolve to challenge yourself. Students in the career and technical classes offered by Lynchburg City Schools are expanding their horizons by pursuing technical and skill-driven certifications in numerous fields. Many students are graduating high school with job offers in hand or clear career paths defined where they once lacked direction. Read about the challenges they’ve tackled—like building a house from scratch—in our Education section on page 28.

Resolve to give back. Dr. Chris Swanson, newly appointed conductor of the Lynchburg Symphony Orchestra, said it well on page 36: “If we work together, we will all be stronger!” Whether you give of your time, resources or talents, find a creative outlet and join the many volunteers already contributing to our community. Not only will others benefit, but you’ll also enjoy the intrinsic sense of fulfillment.

Personally, I’m taking each of these challenges to heart with a sense of renewed energy. For the first five years after graduating college, I worked as an English teacher in the Forest school district, where I taught a variety of classes from 8th to 11th grade, coached the debate team, worked with student government and became invested in the community. But in the last year and a half, my husband and I took a leap of faith when we both left our traditional 9-5 jobs, started a family with the birth of our daughter and established a small business. What we’ve found in the time since is that Lynchburg is a growing city with many opportunities for those who would take them. Is it risky to “think outside the box”? Yes. But it’s also incredibly rewarding. And Lynchburg is a great place for finding challenges and working to surpass them.

Our resolution at Lynchburg Business is continual improvement. Throughout this issue you may notice some new features, a larger page size and an updated design all presented with the goal of increasing your knowledge and awareness of the Lynchburg business community. Because if it’s happening in Lynchburg, it’s your business!

Best,

Jennifer Redmond, Managing [email protected]

LynchburgBusinessMag.com FEBRUARY/MARCH 20156 LynchburgBusinessMag.com FEBRUARY/MARCH 20156

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APRIL/MAY 2015ADVERTISING DEADLINES

Advertising Space Reservation.............................. March 31Editorial & Events .................................................... March 31Final Artwork ................................................................. April 4For Advertising Information, please call us at 434.846.2333.

Publisher Randy Thompson

Managing Editor Jennifer RedmondEditorial Director Melissa Stewart

Contributing Writers Jeff Boyer, Ashley Bunner, David Cox, Heather Cravens,

James Ebrahim, Emily Hedrick, Megan L. House, Morgan McCarty, Dr. Colleen McLaughlin, Drew Menard,

Jonathan Parker, Suzanne Ramsey, Jennifer Redmond, Hilary Sutton, Dan Vollmer

Vice President of Sales & Distribution Paul BrannockSales Director Cheryl BlevinsAccount Executive Missy Celli

Vice President of Production Holly WattersArt Director Chris Meligonis

Client Relations Manager Stacy Graef

Web Creative Director Chris Murphy Sr. Web Developer & Web Administrator Kristi Cogdill

Web Developer Caleb WhiteheadSEO Analyst Michael Saks

Web Marketing & Promotions Manager My Nguyen

Staff Photographer Paul Brunett

Intern Ashley Bunner

VistaGraphics StaffCopy Editor Robin Cather

Controller Anita Burns

Contributing imagery supplied by Thinkstock.com

WWW.LYNCHBURGBUSINESSMAG.COM

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Lynchburg Business Magazine is a bimonthly publication devoted to highlighting Lynchburg-based businesses and those in the surrounding areas of Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford and Campbell Counties, as well as the Town of Altavista. Every other month, 10,000 copies of Lynchburg Business Magazine are distributed by mail to local businesses, executives and individual business decision-makers. The goal of Lynchburg Business is for readers to look to the magazine as a resource worth keeping in their businesses and homes; one that appeals strongly to professionals in our area.


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DAVID COXDavid Cox practices bankruptcy law throughout the Western District of Virginia from his offices in Lynchburg, Danville, Staunton and Winchester. His practice and the practice of his firm focuses exclusively on the representation of consumer debtors in bankruptcy and related proceedings. Prior to entering private practice, Cox served as a judicial law clerk for the Hon. William E. Anderson, Bankruptcy Judge for the Western District of Virginia. He is past member of the Virginia State Bar’s Board of Governors for the Bankruptcy Section and he has been included in Virginia Business Magazine’s list of the best Bankruptcy lawyers in the state as well as in their list of the best Young Practitioners. He is also a member of the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys, American Bankruptcy Institute, and is a Council Member of the Virginia Bar Association’s Bankruptcy Section. Cox is the coeditor of Bankruptcy Practice in Virginia, he authored the Bankruptcy sections of the book Fee Agreements for Virginia Lawyers, and has lectured at numerous CLE programs related to Bankruptcy. In March, 2013, Cox was inducted as a Fellow of the American College of Bankruptcy in Washington, D.C., for his contributions within the fields of bankruptcy and insolvency. Cox is a permanent member of the Fourth Circuit Judicial Conference.

HEATHER J. CRAVENSHeather J. Cravens is the owner of Becoming Designs, an interior design consulting company that specializes in Interior Redesign, Home Staging and Professional Organizing. She graduated from Liberty University with a degree in Family and Consumer Sciences. In addition to serving clients and freelance writing, Heather also volunteers in the local community, serves in her church and spends time with her family.

JAMES EBRAHIMJames Ebrahim is a freelance writer living in Lynchburg, Virginia. He holds a Bachelor’s in Print Journalism from Liberty University. James has been writing for Lynchburg Business since his summer internship in 2014. When not working on articles, he enjoys reviewing books and songwriting.

EMILY MOOK HEDRICKEmily Mook is a Youth Services Library Assistant at the Lynchburg Public Library. She holds a degree in English from Virginia Tech, where she placed as a finalist for the CLAHS Outstanding Senior Award due to a combination of academic achievement and volunteer service as a tutor for children. Incidentally, she has attended exactly one VT football game. She is passionate about literacy, children's rights and positive communication. Her hobbies include spending time with her fiancé, Bryan, and friends and family, reading and writing many genres, watching movies and singing in Roanoke-based band "Mookie & the Stray Dogs."

MEGAN L. HOUSEMegan L. House is a freelance writer, author of “Passage to Freedom” and “Journalism Basics.” Megan graduated from Liberty University with a Bachelor of Science in communications. With her concentration in print journalism, House developed her love for newspaper and magazine writing throughout college.

MORGAN MCCARTYMorgan McCarty is a Lynchburg-area native and a graduate of Liberty University’s Advertising and Public Relations program. She currently works as a full-time copywriter for a marketing firm based in the North Carolina Triad, and enjoys freelance writing and editing for many local publications. Morgan resides in Lynchburg with her husband and golden retriever. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, playing tennis and exploring the beauty of Central Virginia.

DR. COLLEEN A. MCLAUGHLINColleen A . McLaughlin, Ph.D. , SPHR, current ly serves as a professor o f Human Resource Managemen t a t L iber t y Uni ver s i t y. She has owned and operated three businesses as well as provided human resource consulting to various organizations. She has been in education for more than 13 years and has held the positions of Interim Administrator and Director of Education. Colleen is a senior certified HR professional and holds a Bachelor of Science degree with a major emphasis in Computer Science from Central Texas University, a Master of Science degree in Human Resource Management from Tarleton State University and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Organization and Management with a specialization in Human Resource Management from Capella University. She is currently the President for the Central VA chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management [SHRM] and also manages the School of Business student ambassador program at Liberty University.

DREW MENARDDrew Menard has writ ten, edited and designed for a handful of magazines, newspapers and online publications. He is an award-winning columnist, most recently with the Illinois Press Association. Drew graduated from Liberty University in 2009 and was actively involved as an editor and writer for the Liberty Champion.

SUZANNE RAMSEYSuzanne Ramsey is a freelance writer who lives in Lynchburg with her husband, John, and cats, Hector and Edna. Since graduating from Liberty University, she has worked as a newspaper reporter, police detective, office manager and PR professional. She enjoys acting in local independent films (and does her own stunts). Her work has also appeared in Virginia Wildlife, Centra Focus and Lynchburg Living.

JENNIFER REDMONDJennifer Redmond has a masters in English education from Liberty University where she worked with the award-winning Liberty Champion newspaper and also studied journalism. During that time, she became Editor-in-Chief and covered many of the political candidates who traveled through Lynchburg. Redmond taught high school English for several years in the Forest school district before coming on as the Managing Editor of Lynchburg Business, Lynchburg Living, the Central Virginia Family Guide and the Central Virginia Bridal Guide at the start of 2015.

HILARY SUTTONHilary Sutton is a freelance writer, digital media consultant and actor. Her work has been featured in multiple Central Virginia publications. Whether she’s writing a magazine feature, ghostwriting a blog, writing a press release or a biography, Hilary is passionate about telling stories. When not writing, you are likely to find Hilary on a stage. She has performed regionally with Mill Mountain Theatre, Liberty University, Endstation Theatre Company, Wolfbane Productions and Roanoke Children’s Theatre. She and her husband, Juan Carlos Lagares, reside in Lynchburg. For more about Hilary visit HilarySutton.com.

DAN VOLLMERDan Vollmer is an Associate Broker at Re/Max 1st Olympic and has served home buyers and sellers in the Lynchburg region since 2006, earning several designations including the Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR), Graduate REALTOR Institute (GRI) and the Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) early in his career. He earned his Broker’s license in 2008, is a Past President and current board member of the Lynchburg Association of REALTORS, and is also on the board of the Virginia Association of REALTORS. Dan holds a degree in Communications from Liberty University. When not working, Dan and his wife volunteer at their church and enjoy time with their three children.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS


INSIDE LB

1 GALLONThe recommended daily amount of water needed per person in emergency

preparedness kits, page 39

BY THE NUMBERSThe yearly average asset growth of Beacon Credit Union, page 1615%

$150

The number of products available for delivery from Relay Foods, page 20

8,000

The monthly cost of a family plan with

Dr. Farrago’s direct primary care practice

in Forest, Va., page 32

Less than

30%How much of your available credit card limit should be used each month, page 15

70% The number of Lynchburg City School’s career-tech graduates who attend college, page 28

The year civil engineering and surveying company Hurt & Proffitt was founded, page 24

197382,000+The number of individuals served by Goodwill Industries® of the Valleys throughout 2014, page 40


BY THE NUMBERS

SURGE IN GIVING DRIVES ACADEMY FUNDRAISING EFFORTS OVER THE $5 MILLION MARK

A $250,000 campaign gift in December of 2014 has propelled the historic Academy of Music Theatre’s fundraising efforts forward.

The gift was donated by the Genworth Foundation and led to several other private donations.

“We have so many supporters who are excited to see construction progress on the historic theatre. When I put the word out that we were only $133,000 away from the next phase of work, I was confident we’d hit our $5 million milestone,” said Academy Development Director, Beth Doyle.

“The Genworth Foundation was a key supporter of the Carpenter Theatre at Richmond CenterStage and witnessed first-hand the economic benefits that this kind of project brings to a locality. So supporting the Academy’s historic theatre renovation was an easy decision,” said Genworth Financial Operations Manager and Academy board member, Troy McHenry. “Genworth is committed to downtown revitalization, and the Academy’s historic theatre renovation is the capstone to that revitalization.”

This financial achievement supports the preliminary efforts of “Scene 1” within the Academy’s final “Act” of restoration. Work includes contracting the architects, producing construction drawings and bidding for a general contractor, which ultimately leads to the continued construction of Scene 1 in 2015, including stabilization of exterior walls, modification of roof trusses, general re-roofing, reworking of auditorium seating bowl and support structure, and exterior brick repointing, cornices, windows and restoration of portions of the Main Street façade.

“It is undeniable that this engine has picked up tremendous steam. Since the installation of our vintage marquee and canopy, we’ve seen a remarkable pickup in campaign speed and a noticeable increase in the community’s confidence,” said Academy Executive Director, David Jenkins. “We’re especially grateful to those donors and companies that got on board early on.”

IN THE NEWS

GRAND OPENING: AUBURNLEA FARMS BRINGS FARM-TO-TABLE EXPERIENCE TO LYNCHBURG By Jonathan Parker

Auburnlea Farms Corner Market opened its doors December 16 just in time for the final Christmas rush. Bringing a true farm-to-

table experience to Lynchburg, the market includes a full-service butchery and grocery and offers organic produce and locally raised eggs and meats.

Owners Rick and Becky Bennett, who raise chicken, cattle and pigs with their six children on a Campbell County farm, opened the market to give customers “a one-stop organic shop” and make locally sourced meats more accessible according to Becky Bennett.

The Bennetts work closely with local farmers to stock the market shelves with organic items, paying special attention to grass-fed meats. The market also offers minimally pasteurized milk from grass-fed cows. “We want as many local farms in here as we can get. We know who is producing our food,” Bennett said. “They know our standards, and they abide by them.”

The market also includes a cafe, serving lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday and Sunday brunch. The cafe embraces the farm-to-table mentality with chefs featuring the market’s produce, meats and herbs in their daily menus. “The chefs come into the market and shop each day,” Bennett said. “Our butchers cut meat for the cafe each day. We are literally bringing food from the farm to the table.”

A soda shop prepares fresh coffee and specialty drinks, including homemade soda syrups from the market’s organic fruits. The soda shop also features ice cream and fresh baked goods.

The butchery is the market’s showpiece with butchers cutting fresh meats and seafood to order and offering cooking suggestions. “People want to know where their food comes from, and they want it clean,” Bennett said. “We’ve tried to take the guesswork out so they can be confident [that] what they are buying is organic.”

Auburnlea Farms Corner Market is located at 1220 Greenview Drive in Lynchburg. For more information, visit www.cornermarketva.com.

RETAIL

ARTS


IN THE NEWS

http://www.cornermarketva.com

ENCHANTING ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY BRINGS MAGIC TO CENTRAL VIRGINIA

A new business based in Lynchburg specializes in helping families create magical memories with their children.

Enchanting Entertainment is unique in the Central Virginia area as the only company within 120 miles of Lynchburg to offer fully costumed fairytale characters for children’s parties and special events.

According to founder Hilary Sutton, the company currently offers characters such as Snow Queen and Ice Princess, but is in the process of adding additional characters. “We’re open to customer requests as well,” Sutton said.

Enchanting Entertainment offers special party packages for different time increments, according to Sutton. With each individual package comes a sing-along time, individual and group photos and meet-and-greet time with the characters. “We also have special activities like a dance lesson, tattoos and makeovers pending length of package selected and how many guests we are entertaining,” Sutton said.

Sutton, who is an actor herself, says that the company casts professionally trained actors who specialize in singing and playing the roles of the characters. Lynchburg proves to be an ideal location for the company since there are several professional theaters and college theater programs within an hour’s drive of the city.

Enchanting Entertainment is passionate about providing families with experiences that will create lifetime memories to cherish. “It is evident that parents here feel the same way. They do not want to give their children one more toy, they want to give them magical childhood memories,” Sutton said.

The company provides services in Lynchburg, Roanoke, Charlottesville, Amherst, Bedford, Appomattox, Madison Heights, Altavista and Brookneal. Enchanting Entertainment is now booking through May 2015.

LIBERTY UNIVERSITY’S ECONOMIC IMPACT

As Liberty University’s campus continues to grow, so does its economic value to the Lynchburg area. According to a recent

study that was commissioned by the university, Liberty contributed to an estimated one billion dollars in economic impact during the 2013-14 fiscal year.

According to the study, “Liberty University’s fiscal year 2013-14 regional spending was also ultimately responsible for supporting a total of 10,637 jobs within the Lynchburg Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) and generating $383.7 million in labor income.” The university is the city’s largest employer, adding more than 6,000 new positions since 2001.

Deputy City Manager Bonnie Svrcek says that Liberty’s growth and impact on the economy has made it easier for the city to issue bonds. Because of the tax revenue that Liberty’s impact creates for the city, bond rating agencies evaluating the city find Lynchburg is less likely to default on their loans. As a result, the city is able to save money by borrowing at lower interest rates.

WELLS FARGO GIVES $5,000 GRANT TO THE FUTURE FOCUS FOUNDATION

The Future Focus Foundation, the education foundation of the Region 2000 Business and Economic Development Alliance, received

a grant in the amount of $5,000 from the Wells Fargo Foundation to support the XLR8-Lynchburg Regional Governor’s STEM Academy and the Lynchburg Regional FIRST LEGO League robotics program this past December. The contribution from the Wells Fargo Foundation has supported the academy in purchasing needed equipment and supplies for the 2014-2015 school year.

The XLR8-Lynchburg Regional Governor’s STEM Academy has accepted a second class of students in August of 2014, enlarging the school capacity to 50 students currently studying the “Pathway to Engineering.”

“We continue to be thankful to have found such a wonderful community partner in Wells Fargo,” said Elizabeth Narehood, VP of Technology for the Region 2000 Alliance. “The Lynchburg regional business community has a strong need for technical talent. We applaud Wells Fargo for continuing to listen to the needs of our businesses and generously supporting projects focused on growing one of our region’s greatest assets—workforce.”

7 LYNCHBURG AREA SCHOOLS RECEIVE OVER $5,000 IN FUNDING FROM U.S. CELLULAR DONATION

Twelve local classroom projects benefitted from the Calling All Teachers program this past December. Calling All Teachers is a U.S. Cellular donation program that funds engaging and creative classroom projects. In conjunction with philanthropic website DonorsChoose.org, the

program gave over $1 million to teachers across the nation. “U.S. Cellular is proud to support and salute teachers’ efforts to ensure every student has a meaningful

learning experience,” said Jack Brundige, director of sales for U.S. Cellular in the Mid-South. “We are dedicated to Virginia and excited to lend a hand to teachers in ensuring educational excellence of local students through this program.”

Earlier in the fall, teachers across the U.S. Cellular footprint posted classroom projects for funding consideration that covered a variety of topics, including language and literacy, math and science, music and the arts, health and sports and special needs. Some asked for classroom reading rugs, teaching easels and books while others requested foreign language tools and tablets. Twenty seven percent of funded projects included a technological aspect such as iPads and tablets.

EDUCATIONSMALL BUSINESS


IN THE NEWS

CENTRA PURCHASES TWO SURGICAL PRACTICES

In December 2014 Centra purchased Seven Hills Surgical Associates PC and Central Virginia Surgery for $695,000.

The acquisition is the most recent of an assortment of purchases that Centra made last year. In 2014, Centra also purchased Lynchburg Hematology Oncology, Bedford Medical, Plastic Surgery Associates of Lynchburg Inc. and Amherst Family Practice.

Due to this acquisition, practitioners at Surgical Associates PC and Central Virginia Surgery are now employees at Centra Medical Group. According to The News & Advance, Centra now employs more than 740 providers between Richmond, Roanoke and Nelson County.

The surgical practices will remain the same, with businesses operating as before. Although business will stay the same, there will be a change in the billing process, with charges now coming from Centra Health.

LYNCHBURG DENTAL CENTER OPENS NEW FACILITY, CELEBRATES 40 YEARS

Since opening in 1974, Lynchburg Dental Center has continually increased the services they offer to their growing patient base.

“We have recently added another doctor, assistants, and more advanced equipment. We need additional square footage to provide our patients convenience while continuing our high-quality, comprehensive dental care,” Carrington Crawford, D.D.S and owner of Lynchburg Dental Center, said.

Lynchburg Dental Center began serving patients at the new location, 3719 Old Forest Road, on December 15, 2014. The new building provides state-of-the-art operatories with an intentional focus on patient assurance.

“We have called on the experts at Henry Schein Design Group to maximize every square foot and offer our patients modern conveniences and our staff ease of workflow,” said Crawford.

PLUGGED INFEBRUARY 5 ANNUAL TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS MEETING WITH LYNCHBURG’S EDAAcademy of Fine Arts Come hear business community updates and discuss the release of the 2014 Annual Report. City Manager Kim Payne, EDA Chair Mike Lucado and Superintendent Scott Brabrand will also provide updates. For more information visit www.opportunitylynchburg.com.

FEBRUARY 10 ANNUAL LUNCHEON OF THE RETAIL MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION Heritage Baptist Church’s International Center 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Catered lunch with RMA updates, awards and some surprises. RSVP is required; tickets are $18 inclusive for members and $24 for non-members. Contact Laurie Gulluscio at (434) 528-1732 or [email protected].

FEBRUARY 23 BUSINESS BOOK CLUB WITH YOUNG PROFESSIONALS OF CENTRAL VIRGINIA White Hart Cafe 7 p.m. A new quarterly book club—YP Page Turners—will be meeting to discuss Ed Catmull’s Creativity, Inc. Bring your copy and be ready for some good discussion on the role of creativity in business.

FEBRUARY 26WOMEN’S LUNCHEON SERIES BY LYNCHBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Oakwood Country Club, 3409 Rivermont Avenue, 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Cost is $22 for Chamber members and $32 for general admission. RSVP by February 19 by calling (434) 845-5966 or [email protected].

FEBRUARY 27 COFFEE TALK WITH THE RETAIL MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION Lynchburg Specialty Engraving 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

MARCH 3 ANNUAL MEETING FOR LYNCHBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Kirkley Hotel and Conference Center 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.Admission is $22 per person. Contact 845-5966 or email [email protected].

MARCH 12 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS WITH LYNCHBURG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Progress Printing Plus5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The unveiling of the annual Lynchburg Life magazine; admission is free for members and $10 for general admission.

HEALTHCARE NONPROFITLYNCHBURG LIVING’S INAUGURAL GIVING BACK AWARDS RECEPTION

Lynchburg Living celebrated the generosity of some of the area’s most dedicated non-profit organizations by hosting a Giving Back

Awards Reception on Thursday, Oct. 30. Winners were determined by readers’ votes and were revealed at this special party at RA Bistro.

Former Lynchburg Living editor, Johanna Calfee and Publisher, Randy Thompson gave a special thanks to the award's sponsor, Piedmont Eye Center and presented awards to the top 25 Giving Back 2014 winners. Congratulations to all of the winners! The full list of winners can be found in the November/December issue of Lynchburg Living.


IN THE NEWS

http://www.opportunitylynchburg.com




tennis courts • athletic tracksindustrial safety aisles

mobile :(434) 841-8676

phone : (434) 845-1740fax : (434) 846-2856

[email protected]

R. Edward Fielding, Inc.parking lot layout & marking

DELORES OVERSTREET has joined the Board of Directors for The Central and Western Virginia Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. Overstreet is Vice President and Senior Operations Officer at Carter Bank & Trust. She oversees 12 branches in Charlottesville, Lynchburg and Bedford. She was elected to a three-year term on the board. With Carter Bank and Trust branches throughout the 37 counties served by the Chapter, Ms. Overstreet’s leadership will greatly assist the implementation of the strategic plan goals to increase awareness, services and engagement.

ANN KING has been hired as of December 2014 as Manager of the Timberlake Branch for First National Bank. She brings over 38 years of banking experience to her new role.

TAMMIE GRIFFIN has been hired by First National Bank as their new Retail Banking Development Officer at the Main Office in Altavista. She brings over 10 years of management experience to her new role.

LES BOWERS has been promoted to partner at the Roanoke-based firm Gentry Locke Rakes & Moore, LLP. Bowers is a trial lawyer with a diverse litigation practice before federal courts, state courts, and arbitration tribunals. His experience includes medical malpractice, personal injury, products liability matters, complex commercial litigation, and white collar criminal defense. Les is admitted to practice law in Virginia and North Carolina. He earned his J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law and his undergraduate degree from UVA’s McIntire School of Commerce.

MOVERS & SHAKERSBEN BYRD has been promoted to partner at the Roanoke-based firm Gentry Locke Rakes & Moore, LLP. Byrd is a trial lawyer representing injured people in medical malpractice, wrongful death and personal injury cases across Virginia. He represents people who have been injured or lost loved ones as a result of the careless actions of others. Byrd graduated cum laude with his J.D. from Washington and Lee University School of Law and is a magna cum laude graduate of the College of Charleston.

CHRISTEN C. CHURCH has been promoted to partner at the Roanoke-based firm Gentry Locke Rakes & Moore, LLP. Church is an attorney in the General Commercial practice group with a transactional and advisory practice focusing on mergers and acquisitions, intellectual property, commercial financings, health care regulation and compliance, data privacy and security, as well as structuring both state and federal tax credit financings/transactions (historic rehabilitation, low-income housing, and new markets tax credits). Christen was recently recognized as a Virginia Rising Star in Mergers & Acquisitions by Virginia Super Lawyers. She earned her J.D. from Washington and Lee University School of Law and her undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia.

PETER IROT has been promoted to partner at the Roanoke-based firm Gentry Locke Rakes & Moore, LLP. Irot is an Associate in Gentry Locke’s Insurance practice group, and has wide-ranging experience in handling personal injury, workers’ compensation, and commercial litigation matters. He represents both defendants and plaintiffs across Virginia and has handled cases involving negligence, tortious interference with business relations, fraud, contract disputes, liens, defamation, false imprisonment, and cybersquatting. Irot is licensed in both Texas and Virginia, and worked as a commercial litigator in Texas before moving to Roanoke. He received his J.D. with honors from The University of Texas School of Law and earned his undergraduate degree from Rice University.

JUSTIN LUGAR has been promoted to partner at the Roanoke-based firm Gentry Locke Rakes & Moore, LLP. Lugar is an Associate in our Litigation Practice Group and focuses primarily on representing individuals and corporations in connection with criminal and government investigations as well as in commercial litigation. Prior to joining Gentry Locke, Justin was an associate at WilmerHale in London, UK where he focused on criminal investigations and international arbitration. Justin also interned with the U.S. Attorney’s office in Roanoke, and served as a summer law clerk for judges in the 24th Judicial Circuit of Virginia as well as the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals. He received his undergraduate degree at the University of Virginia, earned his J.D. from Liberty University School of Law, and graduated with distinction from the University of London, LLM in Dispute and Conflict Resolution, with Distinction, 2009.


IN THE NEWS


On a recent blustery January day, I braved the elements to grab a quick lunch and discuss some business with my colleague and publication photographer Paul Brunett. For our

inaugural “Let’s Do Lunch” feature, we decided to stop by The Neighbors Place—recent gold award winner of “Best Place for a Business Lunch.”

And it’s easy to see why. Despite the chilling temperatures outside, the restaurant was hopping, warm with the hum of conversation and sunshine spilling in through their large windows. A quick scan of the room yielded several familiar faces from the business community, many immersed in conversation as wait staff buzzed from table to table.

“Our lunches are very steady here because we have a large base of regular customers,” General Manager Kevin Labor said. “We talk about efficiency every day and thrive on a quick lunch; we understand that you don’t have

30 minutes to wait for your food.” Making their turnaround time—an average of 45 minutes from guest entry

to exit— even more impressive is that all of their food is prepared fresh daily. If you order a side of the newly offered sautéed vegetables, you can rest assured that they were cut that morning and cooked to order.

“We have an excellent chef here with Jason Fulmer, and he prepares great menu items; everything is fresh daily,” Labor said.

One of the more popular lunch offerings at The Neighbors Place is their fish and chips platter made with fresh, beer battered tilapia. After saying I would “just try a bite,” I found myself going for more and more “bites” until none were left; if you’re like me, you’ll be wishing for more food to dip in the delicious and tangy creole remoulade.

Labor’s personal favorite, the Neighbors cheesesteak sandwich, is another hard-to-resist offering, drizzled with a delicious white cheddar cheese sauce and stuffed with tender chopped steak. Paul’s favorite was the grilled chicken parmesan sandwich—piled high with Capicola ham and mushrooms then smothered (as food should be) with mozzarella cheese. Lunch offerings also include several salads, soups, wraps and more; with a newly expanded menu, there’s something for every palate and appetite.

Locally owned and operated since 2002, The Neighbors Place has become part of the very fabric of the Wyndhurst community.

“When we opened, there was a field next to us,” Labor recalled. Today, Neighbors is a hot spot for the growing population of Forest and the families

who attend sporting events at the two high schools flanking the restaurant. Labor says the casual interior—with exposed brick and stained concrete

floors—was designed to echo the feel of a friend’s home. “Our name represents what we are—the neighbor next door,” Labor said.

It’s an atmosphere welcoming to any who enter, and with spacious outdoor patios, a dedicated bar and lounge area, a dining room and a private party dining room, The Neighbors Place has a place for you and your colleagues at the table.

LET’S DO LUNCH! Recommendations on local eateries

for business people in the know

The Neighbors Place B Y J E N N I F E R R E D M O N D

TOP TO BOTTOM: Neighbors Cheesesteak sandwich topped with white cheddar cheese sauce; the Fish and Chips platter served with house made creole remoulade; Grilled Chicken Parmesan sandwich paired with freshly sautéed vegetables.


IN THE NEWS

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If you’re an investor, you probably had a pretty good year in 2014. But what’s in store for 2015?

It’s essentially impossible to make precise predictions about the performance of the financial markets—but it is possible to identify

those economic conditions and market forces that may help shape outcomes in the investment world for 2015. By paying close attention to these conditions and forces, you can gain some valuable insights as to what investment moves might make sense for you.

HERE ARE A FEW OF THESE MOVES:

• Consideraddingstocks.With stock prices having climbed higher and higher for more than five years, you might be wondering if it’s time to scale back on your ownership of equities. After all, no “bull” market lasts forever. Still, some factors point to continued strength for stocks over the long term. First, we are seeing signs of improving economic growth; employment gains and low oil prices are giving consumers more confidence, leading to a boost in spending. Second, corporate earnings — a key driver of stock prices — were quite strong in the second half of 2014, and companies appear poised to show more good results in 2015. Third, stocks — at least large-company stocks — are still reasonably valued, as measured by their price-to-earnings ratios (P/E). Given these factors, you might want to think about adding quality stocks to your holdings — assuming, of course, these stocks can help meet your needs for a balanced portfolio. And be aware that even the most favorable conditions can’t assure a continued run-up in stock prices, which can and will fluctuate.

• Prepareforrisinginterestrates.For several years, interest rates have been at, or near, historical lows. Given the strengthening economy, and the decreased need for stimulus, the Federal Reserve may well raise short-term interest rates in 2015, perhaps as early as this summer. But long-term rates may start rising even before then, so you may want to take a close look at your bonds and other fixed-rate investments. As you probably know, when interest rates rise, the value of existing bonds typically falls because investors won’t pay full price for your bonds when they can get newly issued ones that pay higher rates. One way to combat the effects of rising rates is to build a “ladder” consisting of short-, intermediate- and long-term bonds. With such a ladder, you’ll be able to redeem your maturing short-term bonds and reinvest them in the new, higher-paying bonds.

• Lookforinvestmentopportunitiesabroad.Although economic growth has been slow in parts of the world, especially China, many countries have now initiated policies to spur economic growth. These actions can create opportunities for international equity investments. Keep in mind, though, that international investing involves particular risks, such as currency fluctuations and political and economic instability. So if you are considering foreign investments, you may want to consult with a financial professional.

There are no guarantees, but by following the above suggestions, you may be able to take advantage of what looks to be a fairly favorable investment environment for 2015. While you should make most of your investment decisions based on long-term considerations, it’s always a good idea to be attuned to what’s happening in the world around you — and to respond appropriately.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

INVESTING IN 2015A LOOK AHEAD AT WHAT TO EXPECT AS AN INVESTOR

B Y J E F F B OY E R , E D WA R D J O N E S F I N A N C I A L A DV I S O R


FINANCIAL

The financial crisis of 2008 was truly a struggle for survival for most in the financial world, but Beacon Credit Union not only survived, they grew.

“We chose the path of opportunity and decided to become more aggressive with our lending, reaching out to our membership and auto dealers to let them know we’re still here, and we wanted to lend money,” Greg McConville, President and CEO of Beacon Credit Union, said.

This approach, to continue lending in the midst of so much financial collapse, was counterintuitive to some.

“As the recession deepened,” McConville explained, “We began to see banks and credit unions failing as well as most of the auto industry. The financial

industry contracted and restricted lending with many stopping automotive lending all together.”

For those at Beacon Credit Union they had the choice to dig in and hope for the best or play to their strengths and work for growth.

“By taking the glass half full approach, we were able to take the hit that came from the collapse of the corporate system and still gain market share,” McConville said. “In fact, we came out of the recession a much stronger and efficient financial institution then when the recession began.”

Today, Beacon’s asset growth is over 10% higher than that of their peers averaging 15% per year.

McConville credits their strong and continued growth to their “strong growth initiatives in loans and deposits, aggressive sales culture and the hard work of our employees.”

RISING ABOVE THE FRAY: Beacon Credit Union stronger than ever

B Y M E G A N L . H O U S E

BUSINESS O V E R

T E N Y E A R S

President and CEO Greg McConville


BUSINESS PROFILE

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Another one of Beacon’s primary distinctions, according to Scott Hudson, Vice President of Marketing and Business Development, is the one-on-one approach to banking. Beacon strives to offer personal financial attention and assistance however it is needed.

McConville believes this philosophy helped buoy them during the recession; “our actions even had owners of dealerships coming to see us in person to thank us for being there for them in their time of need,” he said.

Beacon is one of the largest credit unions in their service area with 22,000 members; “as a community credit union, our number one focus is on personal accounts,” Hudson explained. With the opening of an additional retail branch this March, Beacon will have 7 retail branch locations.

“That’s pretty good for any financial institution of our size,” Hudson said. Although the one-on-one banking feel of credit unions usually

differentiates them from the average bank, another significant difference is that credit unions are actually owned by the members themselves.

“We are owned by the members who have their accounts here,” Hudson said. “We don’t have stock holders, and we don’t have primary owners.” Some banks are owned privately by a family or a corporation or by stockholders, whereas credit unions are owned publicly by the people.

“Basically if you have an account with us [that] makes you an owner,” Hudson said. This design allows Beacon to tailor

the company to the needs and desires of their immediate, and local, members, and the way a credit union runs is a reflection

of the people they do business with.

TOP: Beacon Credit Union will see their 7th

retail branch location open this coming March.

INSET: BCU bank teller Rachael Thompson is one

example of the “one-on-one” banking philosophy.


BUSINESS PROFILE

http://www.ForestAccounting.com

“If you go to another credit union, they may do it differently, [and] that’s because the members there prefer it that way,” Hudson said. Not every bank or credit union is the same, which is why Hudson recommends “shopping” around and finding a financial institution that best suits your philosophy on money.

“If you go get a hamburger or if you go get a pizza, everybody knows that one hamburger is not the same as another,” Hudson said. The same is true in banking—not every bank, and not every credit union is the same.

Credit union members must live, work, worship or attend school within the designated geographical area of a particular credit union. Beacon Credit Union services the Central Virginia area stretching from Lexington to Lynchburg and Danville to Roanoke.

“Since the recession we have expanded our field of membership to cover Danville, Pittsylvania County and two counties in North Carolina, as well as the Roanoke valley including Salem and Botetourt County,” McConville said.

In reference to the options they offer customers, “We look just like any other bank,” Hudson said. Similar to banks, Beacon offers a large variety of services, including checking and saving accounts, loans and credit cards. They also provide online banking, making accounts easily accessible from home, or wherever one may be.

Throughout the years, Beacon has built up and improved their electronic banking network to the point where it is just as easy to access personal accounts as it would be with any bank. “We are, at Beacon, a little bit more advanced than most credit unions because we offer every electronic convenience that any bank, even the largest banks offer,” Hudson said.

Striving to offer “top notch” services to their members, Beacon primarily focuses on personal accounts, unlike many other financial institutions that rely on other types of accounts, such as commercial lending.

The company began in August of 1939 under the Virginia Credit Union League. In 2002, they underwent a name change from Virginia League Central Credit Union to Beacon Credit Union, and they soon started expanding to Lynchburg’s surrounding areas.

Today, Beacon is ranked as one of the top 200 healthiest credit unions in the country and “constantly rank as the number one or two auto lender” in their market according to McConville.

For those interested in what Beacon can offer them, take Hudson’s advice: “The best way for someone to learn what a financial institution can do for them is to go in and talk to them.”

For more information visit www.mybcu.org.

Beacon Credit Union serves over 22,000 members in the greater-Lynchburg region.


BUSINESS PROFILE

http://www.mybcu.org

http://www.mybcu.org

When trying to improve your credit, separating fact from fiction can prove difficult. Many credit repair companies claim in TV and radio commercials that they have the secrets to cleaning

up credit, but is there really a magic fix for credit repair? The truth is that consumers do not have a right to force the removal of negative information from a credit report if it is true and made within the time limitations for reporting. While legitimate steps can and should be taken to improve one’s credit, unscrupulous credit repair companies suggesting you dispute accurate credit history or encouraging you to give misleading information on a loan application should be avoided.

The good news is that consumers can follow simple steps to rebuild their credit without having to pay for the assistance of a purported professional. With all the scams and misinformation on the web and in the airwaves, D.I.Y. is often the best policy for credit repair.

UNDERSTAND YOUR CREDIT REPORT

Before you embark on efforts to improve your credit, you should first take the time to check the status of your current credit report. Copies of your credit report may be obtained instantly and without charge online from www.annualcreditreport.com once per year. After obtaining a copy of your report, review it for any mistakes or incorrect information. Take the time to follow the dispute procedures included with the report to alert the credit reporting agency of any errors on your report and be sure to follow up to ensure errors are removed in a timely manner.

REDUCE YOUR DEBT LOADThe most difficult part of improving your credit is the most obvious –

eliminating the balances you may be carrying on revolving debt. Focus your largest debt reduction payments on the credit cards with the highest interest rates while still maintaining regular, timely minimum payments on your other cards and loans.

If you are like many consumers, your credit card balances likely increased because you were spending more money than your income permitted. To reverse the trend of growing debt, you may have to consider significant lifestyle changes, and this part of the process may require real sacrifice. Significant but simple changes might include committing to eating out less often or dropping a premium cable package. If your expenses are already stripped down, you may need to increase your income through a second job, a small part-time business or even yard sales.

Bankruptcy may also be an option if your debt is beyond management. While bankruptcy is a negative mark on your credit, its impact must be balanced against other factors that can significantly drag your credit score down even more, such as judgments, repossessions and an overwhelming debt to income ratio. Although the bankruptcy will be noted on the credit report, the debts discharged will show a zero balance.

START BUILDING POSITIVE CREDIT HISTORYOnce your debt is under control, you need a strategy for building a positive

credit history. While the most important aspect of improving your credit score is ensuring that you maintain timely payments to your creditors, the following specific steps will also help to boost your credit.

1.Obtainaninstallmentloan. Remember that the credit reporting agencies care less about how much you borrow and more about how well you perform. Therefore, focus on getting a small installment loan, perhaps even just $1000. Be sure that the loan is from a bank or credit union that will report your loan to the credit reporting agencies. You want your good payment history to be known!

2.Maintainapproximatelytwotothreecreditcards.Be sure to keep your balances on each card below 30% of the available credit. As with the installment loans, it matters less how much available credit you have and more that you keep the balances consistently low.

3.Donotmaxoutyourcreditcards,evenifyoupaythemoffeachmonth. Ideally the credit reporting agencies will see that you are keeping your average balances low. While paying off your credit card in full each month is generally a good idea, you may find that your credit is not improving like you might expect if you are maxing out your credit limits every month because your credit cards may be reporting your balances to the credit bureaus in the middle of your billing cycle when the balances are high. To the credit bureaus, your cards may appear to be maxed out all of the time even though you are paying them off each month.

4. Consider a secured credit card. Find a bank or credit union that issues secured credit cards, which are typically given to applicants with damaged credit because the consumer is required to keep on deposit some amount of savings as collateral that will secure the available credit under the card.

5.Buildrelationshipswithyourbanker.The best place to obtain credit is often at the bank or credit union where you maintain your accounts. Take the time to get to know your local banker. He or she can give you insight into the loan products they have and which will best help you improve your credit.

The importance of maintaining good credit is often unrealized until you are turned down for a loan. While it is never too late to start improving your credit, taking the time to understand and manage your credit now may save you the frustration and delay of having to rebuild credit later.

SIMPLE AND EFFECTIVE STEPS TO

REBUILDING YOUR CREDIT

B Y DAV I D COX , B A N K R U P TC Y AT TO R N E Y, COX L AW G R O U P, P L LC W W W. COX L AW G R O U P. CO M


LEGAL

http://www.annualcreditreport.com

http://www.annualcreditreport.com


GOING GREEN

Although the preference for eating local has gained significant momentum in recent years, there is a roadblock that deters some consumers: the inconvenience—

and accompanying costs—of traveling from place to place to find everything on their grocery lists. Relay Foods emerged from one man’s frustration with this obstacle.

According to Relay Foods Regional Market Manager Daniel Klein, University of Virginia alum Zach Buckner “found that he was driving from farm to business, trying to support local [entities] and buy local food. But he found that he was driving all over the place, and he thought, ‘Maybe we could consolidate by creating a service where people can provide business to local farms and businesses but still be able to do other things with their lives.’” With this goal in mind, Buckner founded Relay Foods in Charlottesville, and now, six years after starting, Relay Foods serves over a dozen communities across Virginia including Lynchburg.

Relay Foods is an online grocery store that allows consumers to purchase local goods from the convenience of their own homes. The company has fulfillment centers that house the food; dry goods are stored in Charlottesville and produce and meat are stored in Richmond. After placing an order, the customer selects the pickup location he or she wants. Customers must place orders by midnight the night before they want to pick them up. The Relay Foods team shows up at the fulfillment centers around midnight to get the orders ready, and then the trucks go out to the various pickup sites on different days. There are two pickup sites in Lynchburg: the BB&T on Old Forest Road, which has pickups from 3:30 to 6 p.m. on Wednesdays, and the YMCA on Wyndhurst Drive, which has pickups from 3:30 to 6 p.m. on Fridays.

Klein said that “some items need to be picked up daily, like bread, so we go to local bakeries for that. It’s nice that we have the trucks because they allow us to be very mobile. All we have to do is find a community partner, and they allow us to park there [on the community partner’s premises]. It’s a really flexible business model.”

One of the most innovative aspects of Relay Foods’ business model is the sorting function on its website that allows consumers to view the closest available items based on their searches. The website prompts the customer to choose his or her location and subsequently changes so that the most local available item shows up first. Furthermore, when the customer hovers over or clicks on an item, he or she can read about the farm or business that produced it. Of course, certain foods can’t be grown locally, but Relay Foods offers them

for the sake of the consumer’s convenience; for example, Klein notes that “bananas unfortunately don’t grow in Virginia, but we carry them because we want to be convenient. We still carry everything a local grocery store does.”

Local college student Christina Phillips has been using Relay Foods for over six months. “It’s the most efficient way to grocery shop with a busy schedule,” said Phillips. “I can get my grocery shopping for the week done during a lull at work or in ten minutes before I walk out the door.”

RELAY FOODS Bringing Local Grocery Products to You

B Y E M I LY M O O K H E D R I C K | P H OTO S B Y J O H N R O B I N S O N

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Relay Foods Team members enjoy a job well done; a customer arrives to pick up her Relay Foods order; Jillian Dy of Perryhill Produce picks vegetables for a Relay Foods order.


GOING GREEN

Additional filtering options on the website also help consumers with special diets and parameters save time and effort; among these special options are organic, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, grass-fed, kosher and Paleo offerings. The website also allows customers to set refill orders for items they use on a regular basis. Lynchburg customer and local mom Amy Lattimer appreciates these personalized and time-saving functions. “I love being able to set a refill order for each week so there are always a few groceries ready for me, even if I forget to add anything else to our cart!” Lattimer, who has a toddler son, said. “This is perfect for me so that we can get his local organic milk, bananas and a few other essentials each week.”

Although Relay Foods strives for customer convenience through modern technology, it is old-fashioned in its support of local farms and businesses. This mix of new- and old-school goals results in what Klein calls a “wonderful dichotomy where we’re a tech startup that focuses on the local.” He said, “It is really great to see local businesses thrive by selling through us. Farmers like going to farmers’ markets, but they really want to farm. By letting us sell their products, it lets them do what they really love to do, which is work on their farms.” Phillips, who enjoys supporting local business, applauds the fact that the company “supports small farmers and local businesses. Those guys are hard workers and deserve the attention and spotlight that Relay gives them.”

Like many innovative companies, Relay Foods experiences some challenges when it comes to expanding their customer base. Klein admits that “changing habits is hard; people are very used to buying groceries at the grocery store. We do offer incentives for people to get to their fifth order, such as a discount on your second order and a free item in your third order and so on.”

Despite the challenges, however, he remains optimistic about Relay Food’s future. “I feel like we’re really trying to change the food system in America. We’re starting to help people think about where their food comes from and reconnecting communities to their farms. It’s really rewarding to see a whole bunch of young people working together and trying to make a change. We are so excited about what we’re doing.”

For more information about Relay Foods, visit www.relayfoods.com.

FYI ON RELAY FOODS • 2 pick up locations in Lynchburg, VA

• 190+ local farmers, producers and companies partner with Relay Foods

• 200% growth in customer base over the last six months

• 8,000 products available for sale on the web site

Data from www.relayfoods.com/about/press


GOING GREEN

http://www.relayfoods.com

http://www.relayfoods.com/about/press

http://wireduplynchburg.com

I recently had to buy a new vehicle (okay, I didn’t HAVE to, but it was time). Not brand new, mind you—just new to me and my family. We ended up buying this vehicle out of state and driving it back home. Now, if you’ve ever purchased a car, it’s

hard to really calculate the total out of pocket expense. Because at the dealership, you’re focused and negotiating on the sticker price. But then there’s TTT (tax, tag and title) - and also an ambiguous “processing fee.” So the number you had in mind to spend is suddenly inflated, and you’re not sure how it all added up to this new total.

For this reason, I like to prepare seller clients right up front with the expenses they’ll be responsible for paying when their home sells—no surprises. I’ll often say something along the lines of “when we get an offer, we’ll be able to tell, using these figures, exactly how much you’ll walk away with.” Grammatically incorrect—yes—but helpful nonetheless. So here’s the rundown on what to expect when selling your home.

FIXED EXPENSES First off, there are fixed expenses. These numbers have nothing to do with

the purchase price and are simply the seller’s obligations (per most standard contracts):

1.DeedPreparation:The seller chooses the attorney they want to draw up the deed conveying the property from them to the new owners. Most attorneys will do this for around $75.

2.Well/Septic/Termitetests: If you have a well, you’re responsible for testing it. If you have a septic tank, same thing. And all sellers are required to provide a pest inspection. The cost for these vary depending on the service provider you choose. The company I often use charges $55 for the pest inspection and $65 for a septic test. A well test is usually around $65-$75.

VARIABLE EXPENSES Next are variable expenses, which will be tied to the sales price of the home:

1.Commissions: This is typically the largest expense, and while I can’t discuss the practice of other firms or agents, I can say that commissions are always negotiable, therefore it is for you and your agent to determine. Either way, in the majority of cases, this expense will be a percentage of the sales price.

2. Grantor’s Tax: This is a tax paid by the seller to the state, in the amount of .01% of the sales price. For example, a home that sells for $300,000 will pay a grantor’s tax of $300. One thing to note: the grantor’s tax is paid on the sales price or the assessment, whichever is higher. So if a home is assessed for $150,000 but sells for less, the grantor’s tax is $150 regardless.

MISCELLANEOUS EXPENSES Finally, there are miscellaneous expenses. These costs are dependent on the terms and conditions of the contract the seller accepts:

1. Closing costs: Many buyers will request that the seller help with their closing costs. This is a negotiable figure, so once the seller accounts for the numbers above, they can determine how much they can afford to give back to the buyer.

2.PropertyTaxes:If the seller currently has a mortgage, that mortgage company maintains an escrow account for the purposes of paying taxes and insurance. In many localities, the taxes are paid by the mortgage company in arrears. This means taxes are paid going back in time. For example, taxes paid on June 30 will cover the time of ownership through that date. So if you close on the sale of your home on July 15th, at closing you will owe taxes from June 30th through July 15th. The bottom line is that there will be expenses at closing for taxes that will cover your ownership of the property through the closing date. So that date has an impact on how much that expense will be.

3. Miscellaneous: This category can encompass a wide variety of items the buyer might request in their offer. Some of the most common requests are: funds to purchase a new appliance, an allowance for new carpet, payment to have the property painted or the purchase of a one-year home warranty.

While there are a number of factors involved in determining the final number, once an offer is presented, these categories and figures can be filled in and a final outcome determined fairly quickly. This approach allows a seller to get a clear picture of where they stand financially, and where they may have flexibility to successfully negotiate an offer to a ratified contract.

Hopefully this information provides some clarity; as always, I recommend you discuss this in greater detail with your real estate professional. Your specific scenario may involve a tweak or adjustment to the figures I’ve presented here. The bottom line is that, as a seller, you don’t want any surprises at the closing table!

On a personal note, I just want to say thanks for reading and sharing your thoughts on this column over the past year - I greatly appreciate it. Happy New Year! – D.V.

JUST GIVE ME THE BOTTOM LINE

Preparing for the Unknown Costs of Selling Your HomeB Y DA N VO L L M E R


REAL ESTATE

As major local organizations have experienced growth over the past few decades, the landscape of the Lynchburg community has been transformed. While we may solely

associate many of these expansions with the giants of local industry, several additional entities are also contributing as they work behind the scenes to see these projects to fruition. One of these key players is Hurt & Proffitt (H&P), a local engineering & surveying firm with deep roots in the Lynchburg community.

H&P is equipped to take on a diverse range of projects from start to finish. While civil engineering and surveying are two of the main services, the firm also has skilled teams that specialize in land development, geotechnical engineering, construction testing and inspection, environmental services and cultural resource management.

H&P was founded in 1973 when engineer Charles F. Hurt & Associates joined forces with Erskine Proffitt, a surveyer. The two had already developed a solid working relationship in the community, so the team-up was a natural fit. The firm has been headquartered at 2524 Langhorne Road since the beginning and now has additional offices in Roanoke, Norfolk and Wytheville.

Over the decades, H&P has been a major contributor to some of the area’s most notable projects. This includes all of Centra Health’s major expansions over the last ten plus years, the Wyndhurst development and major construction projects on Liberty’s campus such as the recently built parking garage and softball stadium. H&P has also worked extensively with the Virginia Department of Transportation, American Electric Power, Central Virginia Community College and many others.

HURT & PROFFITT: LEADING THE WAY FROM BEHIND THE SCENES

B Y D R E W M E N A R D | P H OTO S CO U R T E SY O F H U R T & P R O F F I T T

A Hurt & Proffitt truck makes a stop near the

utility lines of a job site.


ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION

But H&P doesn’t tackle just large projects. According to H&P President Bif Johnson, the firm will do anything from a one-acre development all the way up to hundreds of acres of development. H&P even helps municipals secure funding for their projects. Johnson estimates that H&P has done far more than $70 million in municipal capital improvement projects for small localities over the past five years.

Though some companies might specialize in one area of civil engineering, like water and wastewater or transportation, H&P runs the gamut, offering services across the spectrum. So while one H&P group may be working on a site plan for a new restaurant, another could be testing an old building for asbestos or lead contamination and the cultural resource team might be helping a developer determine the historical value of a property by testing fragments at an off-site lab on Sweetbriar College’s campus.

Johnson explained that having teams specialize in certain areas helps them to better understand the stringent regulations – both local and state – associated with that type of work. They also maintain strong relationships with the agencies that review and approve projects, helping them better understand the expectations in order to more efficiently see their clients’ needs through.

H&P is prepared to take any project from beginning to end. The firm’s level of commitment and quality has led to it being entrusted with many ventures with important implications. Error when it comes to asbestos or lead contamination, for example, could put lives at risk. In cases when contamination is found, the firm will draw up a remediation plan to ensure workers are remaining safe.

This precision and care is taken into each project because the magnitude of the projects, and their implications on the community, is not lost on H&P workers.

“Everything we do touches somebody’s life, in some way shape or form,” Johnson said. “And it is not just a life safety issue, it is also a quality of life matter

that we deal with on a regular basis.”

Life safety could mean anything from making sure a bridge is constructed well to ensuring soil is laid properly as a foundation is built. Quality of life, Johnson explained, could pertain to a transportation project, such as a new road that cuts down on travel time or an improvement on an intersection to facilitate more efficient travel.

TOP LEFT: Hurt & Proffitt’s Lynchburg office located on Langhorne Road. TOP RIGHT: Ben Leatherland of H&P’s Environmental Services team working streamside. MIDDLE: An employee works in the H&P Environmental Lab. BOTTOM: One of H&P’s projects, Elliot and Rosel Hall at Lynchburg College.

When you need experience, we have it covered.Hurt & Proffitt understands the details that go into every project. Whether you need civil engineering, surveying or environmental services, we have the knowledge and over 41 years of experience to make sure your project is done right and meets your goals and expectations.

When you need experience, we have it covered.Hurt & Proffitt understands the details that go into every project. Whether you need civil engineering, surveying or environmental services, we have the knowledge and over 41 years of experience to make sure your project is done right and meets your goals and expectations.

800-242-4906 Lynchburg • Norfolk • Roanoke • Wytheville www.HandP.com

HURT & PROFFITT

Land DevelopmentAsbestos & LeadWater & SewerEnvironmentalSurveyingCivil Engineering

800-242-4906 • Lynchburg • Norfolk • Roanoke • Wytheville • www.HandP.com

Civil Engineering Surveying Environmental Water & Sewer Land Development Asbestos & Lead



http://www.HandP.com


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1 2 2 | L Y N C H B U R G L I V I N G M A Y / J U N E 2 0 1 4

RECIPE

1 2 | L Y N C H B U R G L I V I N G M A Y / J U N E 2 0 1 4

CONTENTS

D E PA R T M E N T SMay/June 2014

ART

18BY INVITATION OF ENDSTATION

Experience a Summer Line-up of

Unique Performances in Unusual Places

BODY

41DIFFERENT STROKES

One Family's Unique Journey

HOME

50 HISTORY REVIVED

A Turn-of-the-Century Home

is Restored to Spendor

TRAVEL

86 COUNTRY STORES CAN SURVIVE

Long-time Local Stores Recall

Times Gone By

ARTIST PROFILE

94JAN GRAY

Handweaver and Pilates Instructor

GARDEN

98

VEGGIES HIT THE SPOT

Daniel’s Hill Garden Fills “Food Desert”

with Produce and Community

TASTE

108FOOD TRUCK LOVE

Four-Wheeled Meal Creations That Will

Wow Your Taste Buds

RECIPE

120 SAVE ROOM FOR DESSERT

A Chocolate Cake That’s Downright

Celebration Worthy

14 EDITOR'S LETTER

15 LIVING OUT LOUD

66 LYNCHBURG MAP

85 PICK OF THE LITTER

118 COMMUNITY NEWS

124 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

128 ADVERTISERS INDEX

130 JUST A THOUGHT...

IN EVERY ISSUE

50

108

12086

18


LOCAL F INDS

1 | Horseshoe Neck Handweavers 100% cotton placemats, Etsy

price: $16, Studio price, $13; 100% cotton napkins, Etsy price: $14,

Studio price $11. Available at Horseshoe Neck Handweavers by Jan

Gray, 901 Jefferson Street, Suite 213, Lynchburg. www.etsy.com/shop/

HorseshoeNeckWeavers.

2 | Horseshoe Neck Handweavers 100% cotton kitchen towels, Etsy

price $20, Studio price: $16; 50% cotton/50% linen kitchen towels, Etsy

price $26, Studio price: $20.

3 | Cheese Straws, $8; Dilly Beans, perfect in martinis, $10; Jalapeno

Mint Jelly, serve over cream cheese for an easy appetizer, $4; Grits

and Rice, quick and easy sides, $5 each. Available at Cook’s Alley, 4119

Boonsboro Road, Lynchburg. www.cooksalley.com.

4 | Cake/Pies/Quiche servers, $7.99. Available at Magnolia Foods, 2476

Rivermont Ave., Lynchburg. www.magnoliafoods.com.

5 | DAD King of the Grill Apron, $17.99. Available at Magnolia Foods.

6 | Chill-n-Fill Wine Cooler, made in Rocky Mount, VA, $17.99. Available

at Magnolia Foods.

7 | EAT Wrought Iron Kitchen Hook, $6.99. Available at Magnolia Foods.

8 | Mode’ Crochet for Indoor/Outdoor use, $28 for 3-piece set. Available

at Accents Flags & Gifts, 1716 Main Street, Lynchburg. Find Accents Flags,

Gifts, Home & Garden on Facebook.

9 | Hand Painted and Customized for You: Pitcher, varity of sizes, $25 and

up; Wine Glasses, $15 each; Cocktail Glasses, $15 each; Oil and Vinegar

Set, $12. All available at Shay’s Unique Gifts, 1102 Commerce Street,

Lynchburg. www.shaysuniquegifts.com.

10 | Zinc 4-piece Measuring Cup Set, $39.99, and Spoon Set, $19.50.

Available at Accents Flags, Gifts, Home & Garden.

11 | Tabletop Chalkboard Set, $14; Teacups Paper Cocktail Napkins,

$5; Teabag Holders, $2.75 each. Available at Accents Flags, Gifts,

Home & Garden.

12 | Grasslands Road Decorative Towel, $8.50; Bird Shaped Sugar Bowl

and Creamer, $13 & $12; Blue Floral Spoon Rest, $7.50. Available at

Accents Flags, Gifts, Home & Garden.

13 | “Blue Ridge Mended Hearts Chapter 16 Cookbook”, in

celebration of their 25th anniversary, $15. Available by contacting

Betty Drinkard at (434) 525-2852.

BON APPÉTIT! KITCHEN AND DINING ACCESSORIES

LOOK WHAT I FOUND!

1

2

3

12

11


[ A R T]BY INVITATION

OF ENDSTATION Experience a summer line-up of unique performances in unusual places

BY MARCELO ASHER QUARANTOTTO

1 2 0 | L Y N C H B U R G L I V I N G M A Y / J U N E 2 0 1 4

MIKAEL BLIDÖ, The Swedish Baker

[ R E C I P E]


W W W . L Y N C H B U R G L I V I N G . C O M | 1 9

ART


W W W . L Y N C H B U R G L I V I N G . C O M | 1 2 1

RECIPE

Save Room for Dessert! A CHOCOLATE CAKE THAT’S DOWNRIGHT CELEBRATION WORTHY

A festive meal is not complete without dessert. Sweet simply must

come after savory, if you ask me. It doesn’t have to be elaborate or

pricey. A slice of pound cake or a humble scoop of ice cream will

do just fine.

The one thing I rarely order at a restaurant is chocolate cake, and this

recipe is to blame! I absolutely love chocolate cake, but since I started

making this version, all other concoctions tend to fade in comparison.

I have made it so many times that I’ve lost count. It’s my “go-to-cake”

for birthdays, weddings, anniversaries and family get-togethers. Plus,

it’s a cinch to make, and if you get tired of it, just switch the chocolate

icing for peanut buttercream or even mint icing!


HOME

Dave and Julie Preston have such a love for

preserving historical homes that it drew them

nearly 1,800 miles across the country, uprooting

them from a town in Colorado and bringing them

to downtown Lynchburg. >>

A TURN-OF-THE-CENTURY HOME IS RESTORED

RevivedHISTORY

LYNCHBURG’S PREMIER LIFESTYLE & ENTERTAINMENT MAGAZINE

LIVINGLYNCHBURG

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

+ HIT THE SLOPES | CrIb Crazy!

THE PrESIDENT’S CabIN | SPICE UP yOUr PLaTE

A HometownBeauty Queen

Getting to Know Locally Raised Miss Virginia

BEST OF AWARDSReader Rated List of Region’s Top Picks

Mikael Blidö, The Swedish Baker

RECIPE

1 3 6 | L y n C h b u R g L I v I n g J A n u A R y / F E b R u A R y 2 0 1 5

Chocolate Cupcakes with ganache filling and vanilla buttercream

Ganache fillinG

2 oz. bittersweet chocolate chips

1/4 cup heavy cream

1 tbsp confectioner’s sugar

chocolate cupcakes (about 12)

3 oz. bittersweet chocolate chips

1/3 cup cocoa powder (dutch process)

3/4 cup hot, strong coffee*

3/4 cup bread flour

3/4 cup sugar

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/3 cup vegetable oil

2 extra large eggs*

2 tsp white vinegar

1.5 tsp vanilla extract

Vanilla buttercream frostinG

1/2 cup softened butter*

1/4 cup shortening

1.5 tsp vanilla extract

1/8 tsp salt

4 cups confectioner’s sugar

2-4 tbsp milk

Sometimes baking can lead to obsession.

like when you try to make something

for the first time and it doesn’t come

out right. You try it again and it’s still not great.

So you try recipe after recipe to find one that

works without luck so you switch the brand of

your flour and that makes it worse so you start

thinking about buying a new stove ...

that’s the kind of obsession finding the perfect

chocolate cupcake recipe (almost) drove me

to. the insanity ended when a friend gave me

this recipe a couple of years ago. it makes the

tastiest, most well-balanced culinary treats

you can imagine. You need to try it for yourself

because i’m pretty sure this will be the last

chocolate cupcake recipe you’ll ever need.

Chocolate Cupcake Recipe The lasT

you will ever need

Directions

for the ganache filling, place chocolate, cream and confectioner’s

sugar in a small microwave-safe bowl. cook on high power for 30

seconds, then whisk until smooth and refrigerate until just chilled, no

more than 30 minutes.

for the cupcakes, pre-heat the oven to 350°f and line a muffin pan

with cupcake liners.

Place chocolate and cocoa in a bowl and pour over the hot coffee.

whisk until smooth and refrigerate until completely cool, 20-30 minutes.

Sift flour, sugar, salt and baking soda together in a medium; set aside.

whisk oil, eggs, vanilla and vinegar into the cooled chocolate-coffee

mixture until smooth. add the flour mixture and whisk batter until

smooth. divide batter evenly between cupcake cups, filling each three-

fourths of the way full. now, place one slightly rounded teaspoon of the

ganache filling on top of each cupcake (to create the “creamy center”).

bake until cupcakes are set and firm to the touch, 17-19 minutes. allow

to cool in pans 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely

before frosting.

for the frosting, in a large bowl beat butter and shortening until light and

fluffy. add vanilla and salt. beat in confectioner’s sugar, one cup at the time.

add two tablespoons (or more) of milk and mix until spreadable.

let cupcakes cool completely and then spread icing on top with a butter

knife—and serve!

*Get these items at your nearby farmer’s market!

RECIPE

w w w . l y n C h b u R g l I v I n g . C o m | 1 3 7

WINEFEST

January 17–18, 2015 Martin Luther King, Jr. Weekend

Saturday: Noon–7 p.m. | Sunday: Noon–5 p.m.

Virginia Beach Convention Center

A portion of proceeds to benefit The Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art and The Noblemen.

PRESENTED IN

CONJUNCTION WITH

Warm Up this winter with Virginia Wines!

A 2-Day Weekend Getaway where there’s something for everyone!

Affordable Oceanfront Hotel Packages

Packages include tasting tickets to Coastal Virginia WineFest and

transportation to and from the event!

Friday Night Oyster & Wine Pairing Seminar Jan.16

Sample oysters from each region and pair them with the perfect Virginia wine.

After Party Overnight Package Jan. 17

Sponsored by Surf Club Ocean Grille, Wyndham Virginia Beach Oceanfront.

Virginia Beach Restaurant Week Jan. 10–19

Enjoy this culinary experience with specially priced lunch and dinner menus

prepared by the area’s finest chefs. Visit www.dineinvb.com for a list of

participating restaurants.

• Tastings from up to 40 of Virginia’s Finest Wineries,

70 specialty vendors and expanded Virginia Craft Beer

Garden with Play-Off Game Viewing Lounge

• NEW Art Show: up to 100 artists from across Virginia

• Live entertainment featuring Country Music Recording

Artist Mark Cooke and local jazz favorite Charles Darden.

Watch favorite local Hampton Roads celebrities compete

in a Grape Stomp Competition in hopes of being

named the weekend’s greatest grape stomp team and

much more.• NEW Ticket options, Table & Chalet packages

• Educational Wine Seminars and Lectures

• Sponsor & vendor opportunities still available

PRESENTED BY:

SPONSORS:

Purchase tickets now and save! CoastalVirginiaWineFest.com

Art, InspiredLiberty University shares Permanent

art CoLLeCtion with CommUnity

By Jennifer redmond

Students and community members

view the work of comic book

artist Sergio Cariello in the Liberty

University Art Gallery this past fall.

Photo by Jessie Rogers.

w w w . l y n c h b u r g l i v i n g . c o m | 2 1

[ A rT]

Follow me,” she said, and we went behind the closed door.

Then, stacks of canvases larger than life surrounded us.

Art projects in various stages of construction, or

deconstruction, filled every available space.

“Is this it?” I asked with some anticipation.

“Oh, no,” she said with a shake of the head.

And then we were through the second door.

Now, we were surrounded by pieces from Liberty University’s

permanent collection. And my attention was immediately

drawn to an oil painting of geese—yes, geese—and a jovial,

bonnet-clad dame. Though it depicted an ordinary scene of

domesticity, it was captivating.

“I know nothing about art,” I felt compelled to admit to

Chelsea Bevins, my tour guide through the art gallery, and that’s

mostly true. Sure, I retained a few snippets of art history from my

Humanities course in college, but on the whole, I know very little

about fine art. Even so, I could appreciate the serenity in this piece

titled “Feathered Friends” where the subject’s face emanates joy in

the simple act of feeding some geese.

“What an apt name,” I thought and asked to see it again.

“Top Tier” on Display

“You don’t have to be an artist to appreciate art,” Nathan Spicer

said. And he’s right, as I can attest from my behind-the-scenes tour

of the permanent collection. Spicer is a student in the Department

of Studio and Digital Arts, and he’s one of many from the

university who are hopeful that the community will come visit their

Permanent Collection on display through this January.

The show will highlight some recent university acquisitions from

regional artists such as David Heath and internationally recognized

Alvar Suñol, a Spanish artist who produces paintings, sculptures

and lithographs.

The Suñol piece to be displayed in Liberty’s show is entitled “La

Cena de Emaus II” (Supper at Emmaus), an oil painting depicting

the scene from Luke 24:30-31 in which Christ serves communion

to his disciples. Suñol’s work is rich with vibrant color and reveals

a European influence in its style and composition.

Though many of his paintings showcase local beauty from

around Southwest Virginia, David Heath is also an internationally

collected artist, celebrated for the style of his realistic oil paintings

influenced by early European and American landscape artists.

Heath’s “Shenandoah Sunset,” a recent purchase by the university,

is a breathtaking depiction of the view from Skyline Drive. As a

member of the prestigious Salmagundi Club, Heath and his work

elevate the caliber of the university’s permanent collection.

“He’s top tier,” Professor Todd Smith, director of the university

art gallery, said. As such, Heath’s work is on Smith’s short list of

future acquisitions to add to the permanent collection. >>

Top lefT: Gallery visitors study one of alvar suñol's oil paintings. photo by Joel

Coleman. BoTToM lefT: "Goose Creek Meadow" by Charley Turner on display.

photo by eric Carson. riGHT: Gallery assistant Chelsea Bevins readies alvar suñol's

“la Cena de emaus ii” (supper at emmaus) for display. photo by eric Carson.


ArT

BEST OF LYNCHBURG 2014

7 4 | L Y N C H B U R G L i v i N G J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5

In this 11th year of “Best Of” voting,

there is a lot we at Lynchburg Living could say about this contest.

A lot about how much you, our readers, are big cheerleaders for your

favorite local places, people and business. A lot about how voting

grows every year, a lot about how more and more locally-owned

businesses take the winners circle each time. A lot about how with

many added categories this year, the spotlight is cast on more facets of

what makes our region great like never before.

But sometimes, it’s best to simply let the numbers talk:

More than 50,500 total votes were cast in 82 categories in order to

crown the 251 winners. And that’s pretty incredible. Read on as we

unveil the reader-voted “Best of 2014!” >>


A Hometown Beauty Queen Miss Virginia gets Personal about What DriVes her,

What she Fears Most anD Why that Fancy croWn

can Make airPorts DiFFicult

By Suzanne RamSey

FEATURE

w w w . l y n c h b U R g l i v i n g . c o m | 4 3

Let’s just put this out there from the very beginning: Courtney

Paige Garrett is nice.

Not the kind of nice that just comes with the territory as the

reigning Miss Virginia and runner-up to Miss America 2015, but BFF,

honest-to-goodness, girl-next-door kind of nice. Nice because she

doesn’t seem capable of being any other way.

On a recent cold, rainy Monday, Garrett shows up all smiles for

an interview and photo shoot at The White Hart Cafe in Lynchburg,

having just finished putting on her mascara in the car. She admitted as

much after being quizzed about the most non-Miss Virginia thing she’s

done all day—that and having just had lunch at McDonald’s.

Garrett wears a teal sweater dress, her waist cinched with a leopard

print belt, and over the dress a navy blue blazer, sleeves rolled up to

reveal two gold-colored cuff bracelets encircling her right wrist.

One is engraved with the initials “CG” and the other “Virginia.”

The bracelets, she explains, were made by Rustic Cuff, a Miss

America pageant sponsor in Oklahoma.

“We all wear them all the time,” Garrett said, referring to herself

and the other 51 contestants in the Miss America pageant, which was

held this past September in Atlantic City.

Apparently, swag is a big part of being Miss Virginia, but let’s get

back to that later.

Garrett, a 22-year-old Liberty University

graduate, grew up in Pamplin, Virginia,

and has been competing in what one might

call “beauty pageants” since her dad spied

a flier for the Baby Miss Appomattox

pageant when she was a toddler.

“He said, ‘She likes dressing up in clothes. She’s very dramatic.

Let’s see if she likes it,’” Garrett said. “Little did they know what they

had begun. I fell in love with it. Being onstage, I was definitely in my

element. I had no training, and we had no idea what we were doing.” >>

Garrett takes time out

of her packed schedule

to talk with Lynchburg

Living at The White Hart

in downtown Lynchburg.


FEATurE

5 2 | L y n c h b u r g L i v i n g J A n u A r y / F E b r u A r y 2 0 1 5

While it’s cold outside now, it won’t be forever and

here’s something to think about as you plan for

spring. So pour that cup of tea, find a cozy spot

and settle in to ponder how your garden affects the future.

We gardeners, beginning and expert alike, can sometimes

feel a tad smug about doing our part for the environment.

We are pleased and proud that our turf, trees and gardens

beautify the landscape, feed us physically and spiritually,

provide joy and satisfaction and contribute to a wholesome

community and world. It’s all good, right? But wait! Have

we ever considered that our own yards could be the source of

significant environmental degradation?

Native Plants for SuStainable landScapeS

Words & Photos by susan timmons

[ G a r d E n]

Where to Buy Native Plants Locally

Farmers Seed & Supply,

www.mainstreetseedandsupply.com

Gary’s Garden Center,

www.garysgardencenter.com

Rainfrost Nursery, www.rainfrostnursery.com

Rosser Landscape Designs,

www.rosserlandscaping.com

Virginia Garden Supply,

www.vagardensupply.com


gArDEn

The Trouble wiTh Turf

Look around your neighborhood at the extensive use of lawns

in our landscape. Lawns are firmly fixed in our culture as a status

symbol, and we’ve bought into planting turf grasses that require lots

of attention to achieve a perfectly manicured verdant carpet. We’ve

converted tens of thousands of square miles into urban and suburban

lawns in the U.S., and many of us (admit it or not) tend to compete

for best lawn in our neighborhood while patting ourselves on the

back for “doing our part” for our community. Turf warriors, these are

alien plants that create an unhealthy monoculture requiring tons of

applied chemicals that run or leach into our water supply. They also

require constant power-mowing that pollutes our air. Who knew?

invasive exoTics

Invasive exotic plants, another culprit, hasten the decline of native

plant and wildlife species and threaten to diminish our life-sustaining

ecosystems, because their aggressive growth habits tend to out-

compete native species. So, what are exotics? Simply put, they’re

plants from another part of the world, often from Europe and Asia.

According to the National Invasive Species Council, “An invasive

species is a non-native (alien) species whose introduction does or is

likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human,

animal, or plant health.”

Natives plants, in contrast, are those that occurred endemically on

this continent before colonization. We have a culturally embedded

history of importing exotics and world-wide plant exchange. Think

of the rich variety of plants Thomas Jefferson brought to Virginia.

Our infatuation with exotics has cooled recently, though, as their

downside has been exposed by modern science. Invasives tend

to have prolific seeds, aggressive growth habit and lack natural

diseases and predators. As they’ve invaded, they’ve wiped out native

species and decreased biodiversity. Bradford pears, butterfly bushes,

kudzu, English Ivy and periwinkle are pervasive examples that have

contributed to declining biodiversity.

respecT Your bugs

For years, we’ve nurtured showy exotic species of daffodils,

lilies, roses and others without realizing they compromise the

base of the food web for wildlife over much of North America.

In his book, Bringing Nature Home, Professor Douglas Tallamy

of The University of Delaware makes the case that insects are

the essential source of food in terrestrial ecosystems necessary

for birds to survive. Even seed-eaters need insects to feed their

young. However, exotics do not host a fraction of the insects

that our birds need. We’ve been acculturated to believe that

bugs in our gardens are bad. So we zap ’em with pesticides. >>

Top: bright orange

butterfly weeds are

magnets for these

great spangled fritillary

butterflies. inseT: The

purple finch is one of

many birds that enjoy

shelter provided by

native viburnum shrubs.

opposiTe: black-eyed

susans offer nectar and

pollen to attract honey

bees and butterflies and

seeds to feed finches.

3 0 | L y n c h b u r g L i v i n g J A n u A r y / F E b r u A r y 2 0 1 5

Kicking up frozen fun at

Snowshoe Mountain Resort

in West Virginia.

[ B O D Y]

As holiday cheer begins to fade and winter

blues set in, it can seem easy to hide away and

hibernate for the winter season. Finding fun for

the whole family in such chilly temperatures can be

quite the feat. One of the many benefits of living so

close to the mountains is being centrally located

to three terrific ski resorts. More than just

simple slopes, these ski resorts have taken

winter vacations to a whole new level.

From luxury hotels, full-service spas

and outdoor Jacuzzis to challenging

snowboard parks and steep

double black diamond slopes,

these resorts appeal to every

member of the family.

Hit The Slopes

By Miranda Canady


>>

boDy

Spice Up Your PlateTransporT Your Tongue aT These

Three LocaLLY owned “hoT” spoTs

By Tiffany LyTTLe, www.LynchBurgeaTs.com

1 3 0 | L y n c h b u r g L i v i n g J A n u A r y / F E b r u A r y 2 0 1 5

TASTE [ TA S T E]

Among the many favored eats here in

Central Virginia are those that provide

within a meal’s sitting travels to exotic

locations. Each plate connects to the person

inside of us that is willing and searching for

something different. Each bite takes us closer

to the sights, sounds and people groups that

represent the locations we dream about. Of

course, there is so much more than just what

goes into a delicious meal; there are also the

people who carefully craft these dishes.

They are our neighbors and community

business owners who have left their native

lands, overcome language barriers and learned

the customs and trade of a new country, found

the equivalent products to manipulate into

the delectable tastes we take so much delight

in relishing. They offer the dining experience

that bring to mind precious memories of their

home, and to open the minds and palates of the

adventure-seeking foodies who know good eats

when they find them. >>

w w w . l y n c h b u r g l i v i n g . c o m | 1 3 1

It’s a New Year and with the 2015 calendar comes a sense of

wonder, hope and fresh beginnings. As any new mother will share,

that sense of hopeful anticipation and wonder is just a glimpse

into how she feels when her new baby is placed into her loving arms.

But, what happens when that new little bundle of joy arrives home for

the first time? Where does that tiny person and all their stuff belong?

In the spirit of the New Year Baby, Lynchburg Living is showcasing

four local nurseries bursting with creative, functional and affordable

designs to inspire other expectant parents as they joyously anticipate

the journey to parenthood. Happy Nesting! >>

A LOOK INTO FOUR LOVELY NURSERIES

Photo by Sara Ernst Photography

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A ClAssiC And TrAdiTionAl nursery

For local news anchor Danner Evans (and gold winner of the

“Best of 2014” News Anchor award—see Page 116) and her

husband, Norwood, their decorating dilemma was transforming a

baby boy’s nursery into one fit for a princess. With two older sons,

Luke and Mac, their new daughter Dabney’s room began as a boy’s

nursery, which Danner sought to repurpose as much as she could,

while adding a feminine quality.

“Rebekah Moody with Southern Loom helped guide me with

design—the color palette and how to work in fabrics.” she said. “I

was worried working with someone would be expensive, but she

kept me under budget.”

Danner wanted the feel of a high-end nursery without the cost, so

she used much of what she already had with her two boys. Since the

crib, dresser, nightstand and bookshelf were white, it made for an easy

transition from boy to girl. This allowed Danner to invest money into

new bedding and window treatments. She purchased a pre-made white

ruffle bedskirt and then had Southern Loom in Boonsboro customize

it by sewing on a strip of coral to tie into the color scheme. They

also made white drapery panels. Danner said that was probably their

biggest investment, but it will be a piece that Dabney can grow with.

Functionally, Danner also noted how invaluable it is to have a dark

room for blocking out the sun during nap time.

“I think it turned out beautifully,” she said. “[The draperies]

totally changed the way the room looks. It’s very feminine. It

lightens things up.”

Since they had just painted the nursery for their son, Mac, 18

months earlier, they didn’t want to repaint the pale blue walls. So

Southern Loom’s creative solution was to create an accent wall

using a stencil, which Danner and Norwood did themselves. While

Danner admitted that it was labor intensive, taking nearly five hours

to complete, she said the end

result was well worth it, adding

that it will be easy to change in

the future and was a lot more

cost-effective than wallpaper.

They then hung a monogram for

baby Dabney.

Through searches on Pinterest,

Danner was inspired by chairs in a

bold color accented in white piping,

so she turned her non-traditional, yet

feminine color scheme up a notch

and had their existing rocking chair

reupholstered by Phil’s Upholstery.

“I’ve slept many nights in the

rocking chair,” Danner said. “It has sentimental value because I

rocked my other two children in it.”

By carrying over a lot of pieces from her older boys, she kept the

room affordable, while making it decisively feminine.

“There’s something special about a

nursery for me,” Danner said.

“It’s my place where I’m rocking my

babies. It’s my place where I’m

spending time with my children.”

Though the decorative elements in each of these nurseries bring a

sense of peace and calm to a mothers often chaotic world, a nursery

isn’t finished until that one small, yet precious bundle makes its way

home—and then the nest is finally complete! >>

Local news anchor

Danner Evans in her

daughter's Southern

chic nursery.


homE

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Johnson explained that H&P and its workers take pride in helping to make the community better.

“The last 30 years have seen a tremendous amount of growth in the Lynchburg community. All of the entities that we have had a privilege to be able to be involved with have been key players in that development and in that growth,” he said. “There is no greater feeling than to be able to drive through the community and to see something that you and the people you work with have had a hand in making happen. It gives you a great sense of pride.”

Ultimately, this is because H&P is embedded in the Lynchburg community; it is where it began and where it, and much of its staff, continues to call home.

“We are all very much a part of this community, and very proud of it,” Johnson—who attended E.C. Glass High School (across the street from his current office) before going to Virginia Tech—said. “We feel like a part of our presence here is to be able to give back. That has been a part of who we are since Day One and that is still very much a part of who we are today.”

This sentiment extends well beyond projects that impact citizen’s safety or quality of life. As an organization, H&P gives back to a number of local nonprofits and charitable causes, and its employees are involved in the community in many ways such as serving on local or state boards, volunteering and more.

With offices in three other locations across the commonwealth, H&P’s body of work has spread beyond Region 2000. Certainly the firm’s heart is still nestled strongly in Lynchburg, but this growth reflects the quality of work done by H&P employees and the relationships they have built over the years. Its employees have certifications in Virginia as well as all of its contiguous states: North Carolina, Maryland, West Virginia, Pennsylvania and Kentucky.

“The reason we are in those states is because clients that we started with here in Virginia—even some locally here in Lynchburg—wanted us to do work for them in those other states,” Johnson explained. “It is a testament to the services that we have provided our clients because they have wanted us to travel with them.”

H&P always welcomes new clients, though about 85 percent of its work comes from returning clients—affirming the confidence they have in the firm’s services.

Learn more at www.HandP.com.

HURT & PROFFITT SPECIALIZES IN THE FOLLOWING SERVICES: • Civil engineering

• Surveying

• Land development

• Geotechnical engineering

• Construction testing and inspection

• Environmental services

• Cultural resource management

• Water and wastewater collection/distribution and treatment systems

• Road design and improvements, including widening, round-a-bouts, and signalization at intersections

• Asbestos and lead testing

• Environmental assessment

• Foundation design

. . . and much more!

TOP LEFT: An H&P surveyor wades

through a creek to gather information.

TOP MIDDLE: A former H&P project - the

now completed bed tower at Lynchburg

General Hospital. BOTTOM RIGHT: The

Farmington Clubhouse and pool in Forest, Va.




ALL HANDS ON DECKLynchburg students put their skills to

the test with hands on education B Y J O N AT H A N PA R K E R


EDUCATION

A dozen high school students pound nails into the wood, quickly piecing a wall together. They work as a team only stopping occasionally to ask their teacher questions. In this class, students

toss textbooks aside in favor of on-the-job training. And they aren’t working on a doll house. These industrious dozen are building a three-bedroom, two bath home from scratch; they install the plumbing and electrical, frame the walls and create cabinets, all while working behind Heritage High School. Once finished, this home will fetch over $30,000 at public auction.

The proceeds benefit the career-tech programs of Lynchburg City Schools (LCS). Instructor Jerry Dudley, who has taught building and trades for 22 years with LCS, believes “these students have an opportunity to make a good living [because] they aren’t nailed to one thing; there are 100 jobs that could spin off this [training].”

The building and trades classes are only a few of the options available to Lynchburg students through the Career and Technical Education Program. From criminology to culinary arts, engineering to early childhood education, students have over 16 career fields to explore.

“We put a focus on career preparation,” Ed Dellinger, supervisor for instruction of the Career and Technical program,

said. “It gives them a historic advantage over other kids their age. We’re about providing options for our parents and students.”

Many career-tech program students enjoy success after high school. Seventy percent go onto college, many receiving six credit hours through dual enrollment. The rest pursue careers typically related to their high school training. According to Dellinger, nearly 4,000 students, from sixth graders to seniors, participated in the program last year.

Each spring, construction companies contact Dudley, looking for leads on top job prospects graduating high school. “These students can leave every evening and see what they have accomplished,” Dudley said. Homes built by students are scattered throughout the city and surrounding counties. “They can take their grandkids out to see what they did.”

Matthew Campbell, whose cousin studied under Dudley, wants to pursue a construction career. “I like building the homes and knowing my [work] is something someone is going to buy and live in,” Campbell said.

Demondre Sales said the building and trades program allows him to get a hands-on education. “I’m able and capable of doing the things I put my hands to,” he said.

The LCS program recently added a criminology course, giving students a wide-angle view of criminal justice careers ranging from police officers to jail administrators and various positions in the court system. Taught by Lynchburg Police Officer Penelope Doss, the criminology class leans on the experience of guest speakers, including CIA officers, magistrates and judges.

“When I first started, I wanted to know how many students were interested in criminal justice and not many hands went up,” Doss said. “Through this course, they are seeing all the different career opportunities in law enforcement that they might be interested in. They are so engaged.”

OPPOSITE PAGE: Students in various career-tech programs of Lynchburg City Schools put their skills to the test. ABOVE: Students in the Lynchburg City Schools Certified Nursing Aide program get hands on experience both inside the classroom as well as on site at healthcare facilities.

The Future of EducationCareer ReadinessLynchburg City Schools has added Criminal Justice to its expanding Career Tech course offerings. See our complete course list online. www.lcsedu.net/NEXT


EDUCATION

http://www.lcsedu.net/NEXT

Doss also focuses on employee skills, including interviewing, public speaking and research. This is a common thread woven throughout the career and technical programs. “We are working on job skills as we go,” Doss said.

A former school resource officer, Doss said the course allows her to teach civic skills to a diverse class. “It’s been amazing because even if not one of them goes into law enforcement, I feel like I am forming some of the most well informed citizens,” she said. “They are getting this behind-the-scenes

view. I feel like I am teaching these super citizens.”Inside the culinary arts kitchen at E.C. Glass High School, seniors sit

in a semicircle talking about careers in restaurant work. Some will pursue employment right after graduation. Others will attend a prestigious culinary school. “I wasn’t really thinking about culinary arts. It was either this or dentistry. Not even through the first week, I was attached to culinary,” Mark Wriston said.

Alexandria Spakes randomly selected culinary arts but then she fell in love with the course after placing second in a cake decorating competition. “I’ve learned a bunch of skills in here that I can use,” Spakes, who now wants to be a chef, said.

Renee Stephens, who teaches the future chefs, said the students hone skills through competitions and catering for the school system. “If these kids can learn a strong work ethic and set high standards for themselves, that’s what makes this program so worthwhile,” Stephens said.

Jay Whitlock, who teaches economics and personal finances, places students in semester or yearlong internships throughout the region. Students spend time shadowing architects, physical therapists, pediatricians, state legislators, dentists and engineers.

“We try to match the students with what they are interested in,” Whitlock said. “We want to help employers teach the students things that will help your business. The business

community in our area is great to work with.”

The career and technical program equips students to enter the workforce or find success in college, all with the hope of them planting roots in Lynchburg. “We are the minor leagues trying to develop players for the major leagues,” Dellinger said. “These kids are just plain good at what they do. Nothing is stopping them. They are ready to work.”

For more information on Lynchburg City Schools’ Career and Technical Education Program, visit lcsedu.net.

• Automotive service

• Building trades

• Business/Finance

• Computer systems

• Cosmetology

• Dental careers

• Cooperative technical education

• Marketing

• Precision machine

• Advertising design

• Early childhood education

• Criminology

• Nurse aid

• Culinary arts

• Engineering/Nuclear technology

• Air Force/Marine ROTC

• Sports medicine

CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION PROGRAMSTHE LYNCHBURG CITY SCHOOL’S PROGRAM OFFERS CAREER AND TECHNICAL COURSES IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS:


EDUCATION

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With rising costs as well as continued changes to our organizations’ healthcare plans, legislation, and volatility in the marketplace, it is important to address one of the

most important issues impacting organizations today. This issue is one most employers do not necessarily desire to acknowledge, but it continues to impact the workplace nonetheless. Research reported by the Employers Health Coalition (EHC) indicates more than 68 million days of work are missed due to employees suffering from Major Depressive Disorder otherwise known as clinical depression. An average of ten workdays per episode are missed by each employee suffering from depression. Absenteeism is just the beginning of the organization costs associated with employee depression.

THE COST OF EMPLOYEE DEPRESSION Employee productivity, performance, presenteeism (being present

with lowered workplace engagement), retention, workplace relationships, communication and effectiveness are just a few of the areas impacted as a result of individual employees who suffer from depression. Depression impacts the employee’s ability to contribute to projects, positively impact team cohesiveness, and provide effective communication. According to the Impact of Depression at Work Audit (IDeA) survey conducted by the EHC, 23 percent of employees report they have suffered from depression and 40 percent of those state they have taken off work as a result of this illness.

According to the World Health Organization, depression has become the second leading form of disability worldwide and is also recognized by the United States ADAAA legislation. Yet, it is one of the least recognized or discussed disability issues addressed within organizations. Why is this the case? The stigma that continues to be associated with the idea of mental illness is significant. Individuals are uncomfortable or unaware of how to address, manage and support issues surrounding this disability that plagues so many U.S. workers today.

WHAT SHOULD ORGANIZATIONS DO?First, employers must be able to recognize the signs and symptoms

of depression. Often individuals will exhibit such issues as unexplained irritability, ongoing sadness, emotional instability, hopelessness, pessimism, guilt and many more complex issues. These feelings and behaviors are often coupled with a decrease in employee engagement, performance and productivity and increased absenteeism.

Second, employers must acknowledge their organization’s performance is being impacted by this matter and develop strategic initiatives to ensure their employees who suffer from this disability are cared for. Employers need to make an effort to demonstrate that the company culture is known as being supportive. Research indicates that most employees who suffer from this illness do not let their employers know in spite of the negative impact the depression has on their jobs; even worse, half of employees who suffer from this illness believe their jobs would be at risk should their employer discover the existence of the issue.

Certainly, the first strategic initiative to addressing employee depression begins by having an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Ensuring all employees have the knowledge of and access to this entity is important. An EAP will provide the necessary and structured support system employees may need to positively move forward while continuing to contribute to the organization. Effective EAPs are an excellent resource for organizations in central VA.

Additionally, employee awareness of this form of disability can be quite beneficial. Oftentimes, supervisors and managers are not aware of what the signs are and how best to accommodate the disability. Therefore, providing training and resources to assist your organization’s leadership is necessary in proactively addressing this serious issue. There are many tools available ranging from consultants who can provide training to PowerPoint presentations to nonprofit and for-profit organizations.

With the IDeA survey finding 64 percent of employees report experiencing cognitive challenges (i.e. decreased ability to focus) as a result of depression, employers must not only take note of the significance of this issue, but also ramp up their strategic efforts to provide a culture of support, educational information and accommodations for this disability. As HR leaders, we are responsible for addressing matters that impact our most valuable resource—our employees. Start this year strong by confronting the fact that your organization may have individuals who will struggle with depression this year and be prepared to care for these precious colleagues. Considering the approximately $100 billion spent on the cost of depression each year and the calculated return on the investment of education and support (estimated 300% return on each dollar spent), it is evident that employers cannot afford to not make these changes.

The Hidden and Significant Costs of

EMPLOYEE DEPRESSION B Y D R . CO L L E E N M C L A U G H L I N


HUMAN RESOURCES

LynchburgBusinessMag.com FEBRUARY/MARCH 201532

BUSINESS PROFILE

32 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015LynchburgBusinessMag.com

BUSINESS U N D E R

T E N Y E A R S

When it comes to treating patients, Dr. Douglas Farrago has gone old school.

This past October, the 49-year-old family medicine

physician opened Forest Direct Primary Care, the first clinic of its kind in the area. Farrago (pronounced “fah-ray-go”) doesn’t accept insurance, has a small caseload and even makes house calls.

Sometimes called “concierge medicine” or “retainer medicine,” direct primary care is becoming increasingly popular in the U.S. The Heritage Foundation, a Washington, D.C.-based think tank, reports there are currently about 4,400 direct primary care physicians practicing in the U.S. That’s up from 756 in 2010 and 146 in 2005.

While direct primary care might seem like a new concept, Farrago said the idea goes all the way back to ancient Greece and the “father of western medicine”—Hippocrates. “Actually, it’s the oldest concept, when you think about it,” Farrago said. “There’s nothing between me and the patient. That’s the way it’s supposed to be.”

Unlike what some might think of as concierge medicine — the TV show, “Royal Pains,” set in The Hamptons, for example — Farrago wants direct primary care to be affordable for most everyone. His patients pay $75 per month and families are $150 per month, regardless of size. He also offers a plan for college students.

He’s quick to point out, however, that this doesn’t replace health insurance required under the Affordable Care Act. “People should have insurance,” he said. “One, it’s the law, [and] you don’t want to put yourself at financial risk.”

With membership, patients get virtually unlimited access to Farrago. Same-day and next-day appointments are available, and Farrago says he’ll stay late if he needs to. And while he plans to see only three to six patients in the office each day, with appointments lasting as long as an hour, patients can reach him 24/7 via phone, text and email.

“I have more patient engagement than other [doctors’] offices can dream of,” he said.

In order to offer this level of personal attention, Farrago is accepting only 600 patients. That might sound like plenty, but Farrago said some doctors carry as many as 5,000.

“I’ve done my research [and have been] in touch with a lot of mentors at other clinics across the country,” said Farrago, who practiced in Maine for 18 years before moving to the area three years ago.

BACK TO THE BASICS FOREST PHYSICIAN FOCUSES ON DIRECT

PRIMARY CARE BY ELIMINATING THE MIDDLE MAN

B Y S U Z A N N E R A M S E Y

OPPOSITE PAGE: Dr. Douglas Farrago in his office. ABOVE: Dr. Farrago’s practice is located on Vista Park Drive in Forest, Va., where he works with a small caseload of patients who can reach him at any time via text, phone or email.


BUSINESS PROFILE

“I looked at their numbers and 600 is around the sweet spot where everyone is going. No one wants to be too busy. That seems to be the number...I will make enough money to be happy.”

Farrago says he wants to practice medicine the way he sees fit, without insurance companies and other “third parties” telling him what to do, and with a manageable number of patients. “I pride myself in seeing people as people and not numbers,” he said.

He describes his practice as “much more personal, much more accessible [and] much more comprehensive,” adding, “I want to bring the personal relationship back with the family doctor. This is where family medicine should be.”

Larry Compter, a patient of Farrago’s since before he opened the new office,

describes his doctor as having a “tremendous passion for authentic

medicine, between doctor and patient, instead of the insurance company.”

Compter, a 63-year-old Goode resident, first saw Farrago for a back problem he was having and was immediately impressed at the approach he took to the problem.

“His whole approach was so compelling to me because it was like the doctor/patient relationship I remember from when I was younger,” Compter said. “He doesn’t come into the room with a computer. He talks to you face to face and spends time with you.”

Compter said Farrago uses a “holistic” approach, taking “all aspects of your life” into consideration, not just the “presenting problem.” He also appreciates

the way Farrago doesn’t jump straight to medication as a solution.“I wanted a natural way of dealing with it, and he recommended yoga,”

Compter said of his back pain. “That was his prescription. I started doing yoga and haven’t had any back problems [since]. He can think outside the box. That’s one of the things I like about [him].”

At his office on Vista Park Drive, Farrago offers a wide range of medical services, including dermatology, sports medicine, nutrition, gynecology (although not obstetrics), and osteopathic manipulation, which is similar to

what a chiropractor does. “That’s what family doctors do,” he said. “We’re all

trained in that.”That said, there are some things Farrago doesn’t do—

cardiology, radiology and lab work, for example. But for things outside his expertise, he’s negotiated affordable rates with local providers.

“If people have a massive deductible, we can tell them where to go to save their money,” he said. “We act as a navigator for our patients [and] advocate, to speak to specialists.”

Farrago said doctors don’t usually have the time to do those kinds of extra things. Until opening his own

practice, Farrago said, he “didn’t feel complete as a doctor” and compared practicing medicine to a “rat race.”

“Even if you win, you’re still a rat,” he said. “Nothing against all doctors. They all want to do this. They don’t have the time. We’re working for the insurance companies and government and trying to please them. ... We’ve lost touch with what should be keeping us grounded. [It’s] between me and the patient.”

For more information, visit www.forestdpc.com.


BUSINESS PROFILE

http://www.forestdpc.com

http://stoneblueairlines.com/hangar

These days it’s a given that your business needs to have a social media presence. So you’ve probably got one. But what can you do to improve it without spending a lot

of extra time and energy? Here are five tips you can immediately implement to improve your company’s social media presence.

1. Ask questions. Social media is all about starting conversations. Even on a business page, you don’t have to be “all business.” You can recognize a current event or national holiday and ask people about their plans. Consider a post like this: “Anybody out there got a case of the Mondays? Comment on this post and come in before 9 am for a free drip coffee. We want to make your week a little better.” Many businesses make the mistake of treating social media like a megaphone, but customers feel valued when you have a two-way conversation. Take advantage of that opportunity.

2.Putafacewithaname.When it comes to a social media presence for a small business, a logo is good but a face is even better. Whether it’s in the cover photo, header image, or the profile photo, this is your opportunity to remind customers that you are local people doing business with local people. Everyone loves knowing that their hard-earned dollars are staying in the local economy and supporting families in their community. Remind them of who they are working with by posting images of your team.

3.Respondwithin24hours. Have you ever tried to get answers from a brand via Twitter or Facebook only to be met with silence? Even worse—you research a business and see that their last post on Facebook was in 2012. Is this company even in operation? Who knows! To show you have excellent customer service, commit to responding to messages, comments and @ re-plies within 24 hours. The sooner you can respond the better.

4.Addphotos.Post photos that exude your company culture making sure that each image reflects the overall energy of the platform it is being shared on. Image and video-sharing social networks like Pinterest, Vine, Instagram and Snapchat are growing rapidly. Even Facebook and Twitter have easy photo sharing features. This is a great opportunity to highlight the people that keep your company going, the exciting work you’re doing and the beautiful products you create.

5.Showsomepersonality.Don’t hold back your excitement over a new product line! Try posting an article that has a controversial perspective on a business trend. Do anything but be all “self-promotey” all the time. For every direct sales pitch you should have nine other posts that contribute value to the greater online conversation.

In 2015, if your company does not have a social media presence you simply don’t exist to the greater population. An effective social media strategy does not need to be complicated. Just remember, you’re people working with people. That commitment to authenticity will take your online presence far.

5 Easy Hacks to

IMPROVE THE SOCIAL MEDIA PRESENCE of Your Business

B Y H I L A R Y S U T TO N


MARKETING & SALES

Dr. Chris Swanson, conductor of the Lynchburg Symphony

Orchestra, photographed on the theatre stage of the

Academy of Fine Arts.


LEADERS of LYNCHBURG

36 LynchburgBusinessMag.com FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015

As the newly appointed symphony conductor, what’s your vision for the symphony?

My general goals for the future are to make the LSO a more integral part of the region’s cultural scene, to provide more concerts each year and, therefore, to bring much more great classical music to the area.

What led to your new role with the Lynchburg Symphony Orchestra? A little over a year ago I was invited by the LSO board to submit an

application. I have worked with many of the orchestra’s musicians in the past and have performed in many concerts in and around Lynchburg, so I was immediately intrigued at the idea of having a permanent gig in the city with these great musicians. However, I live in Farmville with my family where I am a professor at Longwood University. It’s about an hour drive. I really had to think about the logistics of being able to get to Lynchburg often enough, not just for rehearsals and concerts, but to be a part of the community as well. My family encouraged me to go forward—which I did. My family is so supportive of my career, and I am very thankful for that. After a few rounds of interviews, I was selected. I feel totally honored to have been given the position.

In five years, where do you hope to see the symphony and its involvement in the community?

I hope to find that the orchestra is giving more concerts each year: 5 or 6 instead of 3. I hope to see more people at those concerts. I also hope to have more financial backing and concert sponsorship. I would love to have a children’s and family concert series throughout each year.

What is your greatest challenge in this role? Let me preface this by saying that I love a challenge! There are so many

wonderful challenges with the position that I am happily engaged in now, and I look forward to living in those challenges for a long time to come.

I think the biggest thing is that the job is never finished. Long before one concert is done, the board and staff are planning for the next concert. At the same time, I am studying and selecting music for future programs—concerts that we may not play for several years into the future. The process of selecting concert repertoire is in itself an extraordinary challenge because I am looking at a pool of music that is bottomless. There are essentially infinite symphonic works that we could perform. The choice isn’t random, of course: does the piece fit the theme of a program? What goes with it? How long is it? How many players are required? Is it in public domain or under copyright? Has

it been performed previously by the LSO? Do the players enjoy the piece? Is there something recognizable about the music? Do we take a chance with something entirely new?

What perspectives or unique experiences do you bring to this role? My musical training has been in vocal music (I am a tenor). Orchestra

conductors are generally instrumentalists; most are pianists or violinists. Singers-turned-conductors are out there but it’s a little more rare. I love that the LSO brought me on and gave me this opportunity. When I approach a piece of music, I dig into phrasing and tone color. I love to explore lyricism in all music. Sometimes in rehearsals we will add words to melodies that different instruments play. In any piece of music, every player’s part has a melody in it, and I encourage the players to be as expressive and musical as they can possibly be!

My background also means that I can sing with the orchestra from time to time—which is pretty thrilling. This past December I sang “Gesu bambino” in our holiday concert.

Share some about your professional background: I attended Michigan State University (graduated in 1997), then went to

University of Tennessee, Knoxville for a masters (graduated in 1999) and finally attended Florida State University and received my doctorate in 2003. From Tallahassee I moved to Longwood University in Farmville where I have been ever since. In the nearly twelve years since, I have taught courses at Longwood and have sung all over—a few trips to Europe for concerts and across the US. I sing opera roles from time to time but a bulk of my singing is in oratorio and recital. This coming spring I will be singing an amazing choral work with Randall Speer and the Randolph College choir. I am also preparing a recital for a few weeks from now.

Another major part of my career is the Summer Garden Opera. The SGO opened in 2010 in Farmville. We give outdoor operatic performances each summer. This summer on June 20 we will perform The Elixir of Love.

Tell us about your personal background:I started studying music when I was very young. I played the clarinet

through high school. I took private lessons and played in bands. I also took piano lessons for a few years. I sang when I was very young as well, but somehow it didn’t feel like…work. I sang in choirs, in musicals and sang the lead of Amahl and the Night Visitors when I was eleven. Later, I had some extraordinary music teachers in high school who encouraged me to pursue musical studies in college.

LEADERS OF LYNCHBURGDR. CHRISTOPHER SWANSON

Occupation: Conductor, Singer, College professor | Age: 39 | Hometown: Livonia, MI



I come from a very musical family. I grew up in a family where everyone was a musician and most of them had careers in music. My grandfather, Kenneth Jewell was a well-known choral conductor in Michigan for many years; I had an aunt and uncle who played violin in the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. My parents both play the clarinet and sing. My mother (who was my first clarinet teacher) was an elementary school music teacher. I was never pushed into music, but I certainly had a lot of great role models around me. Of my own generation, I have a cousin, Ken Freudigman who is the principal cellist of the San Antonio Symphony Orchestra and conductor of the Youth Orchestra of San Antonio. Another cousin has been a pipe organ builder for many years.

I have several children myself and try to not push them into music—although they are very talented, so it is tempting! I hope I can just be as encouraging as my family has been to me.

Outside of music, I enjoy reading, running, cooking and spending time with my family. My wife, Melanie, and I have five children. Two are hers: Breanna and Grace, and three are mine: Ellie, Abby and Charlie. Melanie and I are expecting our first baby girl in March. Most of our free time right now goes to getting ready for baby!

How long have you lived in Virginia?I moved to Virginia in 2003 and have lived here since. I live in Farmville,

which is about an hour east of Lynchburg (Appomattox is the midway point). Although I was born and raised up north, I’m proud to have made my home and raised my family in Virginia.

What do you enjoy about Lynchburg? We have great food, kind, interesting people, and there is always something

to do. Lynchburg is a really fun town!

What one piece of advice would you share with others who want to pursue music professionally?

The advice that I was given: You have to make you own opportunities. There are loads of talented musicians all around. If you sit at home and wait

for someone to hire you, you’ll probably find that the people hiring are calling someone else. Instead you have to get out there and make opportunities happen around you.

What are your thoughts on the business community in Lynchburg?

If we work together, we will all be stronger! I look forward to working with and getting to know others in the business community and am proud to be a part of it. I believe that a strong cultural presence in a city makes for a strong community. A city like ours with museums, choral ensembles, loads of chamber

music, a thriving opera company, theaters, churches with amazing musical programs, and colleges and universities with loads of culture to share, not to mention world class restaurants, gives the people lots of reasons to get out of their homes and interact with one another. It also gives people from outside of town great reasons to come downtown and check things out.

NOMINATIONS: If you have someone to nominate as a leader in our

community, send it to [email protected]

“I am a fan of Chris and happy to have him

leading the symphony and being part of the Lynchburg

cultural landscape.”

Cecelia Schieve, General Director of Opera on the James

In addition to being the LSO conductor, Dr. Swanson is a professor at Longwood University. Of Lynchburg, he says, “I believe that a strong cultural presence in a city makes for a strong community.”




When winter weather looms in the forecast, lines at the grocery story fill up across the region. The rush to stock up on eggs, milk and bread is natural, but families need to stock

up on emergency items as well in case of power outages.The most important step is to stay abreast to the weather forecast. Large-scale

storms don’t happen out of the blue; there is always a warning. When preparing for a winter storm, put the following items on your safety checklist.

HOME PREPAREDNESS

Water. It is essential to keep yourself hydrated, a fact often forgotten in winter months. Did you know that lack of hydration leaves the body vulnerable in extreme cold? In fact, the American Red Cross recommends stocking a three-day supply of water including one gallon a day per person. Simple math would indicate that a family of four should keep 12-15 gallons on hand at all times to be safe.

Food. Warm soups and desserts are nice during a snow day, but if the power goes out, you’ll need easy-to-prepare foods rich in protein and nutrients. Pick up enough non-perishable foods to last for three days.

Medications. In case of inclement weather, make sure your prescriptions are filled. Keep your first aid kit stocked with bandages, ibuprofen and other essentials.

Miscellaneous. Other key items to pack include a flashlight with extra batteries, sanitation and hygiene items, baby supplies (diapers, wipes and food), pet supplies, warm coats and blankets. Those with wood stoves or fireplaces should have enough dry, stacked wood to last for several days. Generators and charcoal grills should only be used outside and not in a garage or basement.

VEHICLE MAINTENANCE

Check the engine. Remember to winterize your vehicle. The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends checking or having a mechanic check the antifreeze levels, battery and ignition system, brakes, exhaust system,

fuel and air filters, heater and defroster, lights and hazard lights, oil, thermostat and windshield wiper equipment. Keeping your vehicle road safe is critical during winter weather.

Stock the Interior. Stock your vehicle with emergency supplies, including a blanket, flashlight, hat and gloves, road flares, booster cables, first aid kit, snack foods and extra water. If stranded in cold weather, get out of the wind and seek shelter. Insulate yourself from the ground by sitting on a blanket and keep your hands and feet dry.

UNIQUE HEALTH CONCERNS

HelptheElderly.Winter weather is particularly hard on the elderly. Be sure to check on elderly or disabled neighbors especially during power outages. Since landlines are often downed, stop by to make sure they are warm and have food and water. The elderly are at greater risk for hypothermia, so if someone seems confused or lethargic, seek medical attention immediately.

KnowYourLimits. Before shoveling snow or cleaning off the car, consider your health condition. If you have a history of heart disease, don’t overdo it. Unfortunately, heart attacks are all too common when people overwork themselves scraping driveway or sidewalks.

Safety Outdoors. Avoid traveling during winter storms, especially on ice. If physically able, apply rock salt to sidewalks and driveways to prevent falls. Bundle children up before sending them outside to play in the snow and limit the amount of time that family pets spend in the elements especially as temperatures drop.

Paying close attention to the weather forecast and planning ahead will help ensure your family’s health and safety during winter storms and power outages. Make sure to stock up on the essential items, stay warm, check on elderly neighbors and keep pets out of the cold.

George Wortley, MD, ABFM, is a family physician at Centra Medical Group - Lynchburg Family Medicine and Centra Medical Group - Big Island. Dr. Wortley was named Virginia Family Physician of the Year in 2013. An avid runner and outdoorsman, Dr. Wortley is a Fellow of the Academy of Wilderness Medicine and teaches courses on outdoor survival skills. For more information, visit CentraMedicalGroup.com.

ALWAYS BE PREPAREDTips for a Safe and Healthy Winter Season

B Y G E O R G E W O R T L E Y, M D , A B F M , C E N T R A M E D I C A L G R O U P


HEALTHCARE

Donations of clothing and household items to Goodwill help to fund job training and

employment programs in Lynchburg and

surrounding communities


NONPROFIT

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015LynchburgBusinessMag.com40

The old adage “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” holds true in Goodwill stores across the country in more ways than one. Clothes, books and furniture are

interspersed with odds and ends that could prove to be potential gold mines for savvy and frugally-minded shoppers. But Goodwill stores not only provide good deals, they also invest money earned towards training programs that help local people get back to work.

The first Goodwill was founded in the early 1900s in Boston, and since then Goodwills have popped up all across America. Goodwill Industries® of the Valleys is just one of many independent Goodwill organizations around the nation. “There are 165 independent Goodwills across the nation. We have our own independent board of directors, we have our own budget, and what happens here stays here,” said Kelly Coleman, Goodwill Industries® of the Valleys’ Vice President of Marketing. “We serve 31 counties and 13 cities in the state of Virginia.”

Among those served are the 5 retail stores in the Lynchburg area. They are located on Wards Road and Timberlake Road of Lynchburg; one is in Madison Heights; two are in Forest, and another one is in Bedford. Along with the retail stores, there is a Goodwill Job Center in Madison Heights that provides training to residents of Lynchburg and the surround communities who have disabilities, youth with disadvantages and those individuals who need assistance finding employment.

While Goodwill agencies share common principles and goals, each one is independent and helps individuals at a local level. “There is a saying amongst Goodwills—that once you’ve seen one Goodwill, you’ve seen one Goodwill,” Coleman said. “We all do it a little bit differently, but it all comes back to the guiding principles behind Goodwills, and that is ‘a hand up, not a hand out’.” Even the name “Goodwill” conveys the friendly and cooperative mission of the non-profit organization. According to Coleman, Goodwill is the largest non-profit provider of employment training programs for people with disabilities and disadvantages in the United States.

“We want people to understand that when they shop at Goodwill, they are helping their neighbors

get back to work,” Coleman said. “A lot of times people think that we are a national organization, and we are going

to help people nationally, or they don’t have a true understanding of what Goodwill can do for them.”

Goodwill agencies help to provide training and employment assistance for individuals at the local level. This means that by shopping at a Lynchburg location, you are directly helping people in Lynchburg and the surrounding communities.

GOODWILL INDUSTRIES® OF THE VALLEYS: Helping People in the Community Get Back to Work

B Y J A M E S E B R A H I M

ABOVE LEFT: Jamaika, a Lynchburg resident and Goodwill Workforce Investment Act Title I Youth participant, teaches a Cardio Funk class at the YMCA after being placed in a work experience there through the Goodwill training program. CENTER: Job seekers needing assistance with their resume can visit the Madison Heights Jobs Center. RIGHT: Goodwill provides free computer classes as well as job readiness classes at the Madison Heights Jobs Center.


NONPROFIT

As of November 2014, Goodwill Industries® of the Valleys had served 82,775 people and placed 3,363 people in competitive employment in 2014 alone. People are served through training programs like computer classes, or the prisoner re-entry program that helps people with a criminal record get back to work. “A lot of the core services that are open to the general public, is where the growth is happening—computer classes, job-readiness classes and assistance with resumes are some of the most popular services offered,” Coleman said. Goodwill also offers services like youth mentoring as well as an older-worker program that helps low-income seniors.

With over 70% of the organization’s revenues coming from the sale of donated goods, they are critical to the support of the Goodwill mission. “Retail sales have not seen as strong of growth as we had anticipated, which is the same for retailers across the country,” Coleman said. “What that means for Goodwill is that when sales are down, it becomes a little more challenging to fund the programs.” According to Coleman this becomes even more difficult as non-profits see less federal, state, and local funding, and is the reason retail sales are such a critical part of helping Goodwill help people.

In addition to donating clothing and household items you no longer need, another way to help besides shopping at Goodwill is through volunteering. “There are always new volunteer opportunities available; if there are individuals who are interested in volunteering, we encourage them to contact us,” Coleman said. Goodwill plugs in individuals who want to volunteer based on their expertise and where their interests lie. Certain parameters exist as required by the U.S. Department of Labor. For instance, no one can volunteer at a Goodwill retail store because people are being paid to do the same job.

TOP: The Goodwill store located in Madison Heights is one of five located in the Lynchburg area. MIDDLE: Seniors age 55 and older who are on a low income may be eligible for job training through the Senior Community Service Employment program at Goodwill. BOTTOM: Job seekers may use the Resource Room at the Madison Heights Jobs Center at no cost for job search related activities.


NONPROFIT

ABOVE: Goodwill’s GoodGuides Youth Mentoring program provides mentoring

services for at-risk youth between the ages of 12 and 17 in the Lynchburg area.

RIGHT: The community may donate their unused clothing and household

items at Goodwill stores, Attended Donation Centers, or at the convenient

24-hour donation boxes featuring EDGAR, Goodwill’s mascot.

Volunteering doesn’t stop with the individual, however; Goodwill collaborates with local businesses to make its

many training programs possible and available. “We are always looking for new partnerships with businesses, not only to promote an understanding of Goodwill, but also to provide work-ready employees for their businesses,” Coleman said. This relationship between Goodwill and

local businesses is mutually beneficial.

In 2015 Goodwill will expand its presence in the Charlottesville area, where they will have a new location. “We are going to be opening a store in that area, and will focus more on letting folks know what is really going on in that area, similar to what we did in the Lynchburg area in the past couple of years,” Coleman said.

Shopping at one of the many Goodwill locations means not only getting a good deal, but also helping to get individuals with disadvantages and disabilities in Lynchburg back on their feet with a hand up, not a hand out.

To let people learn a little bit more about Goodwill, bi-monthly tours called “The Real Goodwill Tour” are offered at the Roanoke Jobs Campus of the Goodwill Industries® of the Valleys.

For more information about the non-profit, its programs, and volunteer opportunities, visit their website at: www.goodwillvalleys.com.

GOODWILL INDUSTRIES® OF THE VALLEYS AT WORK • Over 70% of revenue comes from the sale of

donated goods

• Over 3,300 individuals were placed for employment in 2014

• 31 counties in the state of Virginia are served

• 13 cities in the state of Virginia are served


NONPROFIT

http://www.goodwillvalleys.com


RETAIL

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015LynchburgBusinessMag.com44

DUCHESS BAKERY TO GO: A BEDFORD ICON REINVENTED

B Y M O R G A N M CC A R T Y

Owning a bakery or café can be a demanding lifestyle. From building maintenance to dish washing, it takes a great deal of time and money to provide an experience that keeps customers

coming back. Many entrepreneurs in the food industry have decided to simplify, moving from brick and mortar standalone buildings to food trucks, carts and kiosks. Conveniently, this movement caters to a large portion of today’s consumers – people who are on the go with little time to stop in or sit down for a meal. But along with speed, this customer base demands top quality. One local business, Duchess Bakery To Go, has embraced the trend, and offers high-quality baked goods, coffees and other treats from a trolley car located at 1704 Forest Road in Bedford.

For the past 13 years, Duchess Bakery To Go has been known as The Duchess of Bedford Bakery, a popular spot for breakfast and lunch formerly located on Crenshaw Street in Bedford. Sensing the fast-paced lifestyles and unique needs of her customers, owner Becky Turner decided to open a drive-through kiosk location in May 2013. She purchased a vintage trolley car, parked it on Forest Road and a one-of-a-kind bakery experience was born. For several months, Turner operated both the Crenshaw Street café and the drive-through, but due to health issues and a pending heart surgery, she felt the need to simplify.

Turner explained, “In October of 2013, I found out that I would need my aortic valve replaced for the second time.”

Knowing from experience that the recovery process would be taxing, she thought deliberately about her business, and how to best meet the needs of her loyal customer base while also maintaining good health.

“I couldn’t imagine closing completely, but I wanted to de-stress as much as possible,” Turner said. “Focusing solely on the drive-through seemed like the best way to downsize.”

The San Francisco-style trolley car that now houses Duchess Bakery To Go was once a drive-through coffee shop in Virginia Beach. Ironically, it was for sale due to health circumstances similar to Turner’s. She explained, “The lady who previously owned the trolley car had closed her coffee business after heart issues and an aortic valve replacement.”

Owner Becky Turner opened her drive-through kiosk, housed in this San

Francisco-styled trolley car, in 2013.


RETAIL

Finding the perfect venue and connecting with the former owner on a personal level was a sign that all things were coming together for good. Duchess Bakery To Go has provided much-needed stress relief for Turner while also allowing customers to have their favorite items from the café readily available.

“It is truly a win-win,” she exclaimed. “Our customers don’t want fast food—they want good food

fast, and that is exactly what we provide here.”

Almost all of the baked goods that were offered in the former café are available at Duchess Bakery To Go. Their most-loved food items are also available, including chicken salad, pimiento cheese, quiche and croissant sandwiches. With a variety of coffees, lattés, cappuccinos and smoothies to choose from, customers can get the caffeine boost or refreshment they need on the go.

“We had a great customer base at the café on Crenshaw Street,” Turner said. “Lots of people would come and get boxes of baked items or snacks to take back to work.”

Catering to this market, Duchess Bakery To Go accepts special orders for bakery items, chicken salad, pimiento cheese and other favorites. Customers can also place holiday or birthday orders with 24-hour notice. A team of six employees handles everything. In addition to Turner, there are two bakers and four baristas who serve customers from the trolley car.

The Duchess Bakery to Go offers the same well-known items that owner Becky Turner sold for years in her standalone café with the convenience of a drive through.


RETAIL

“This Thanksgiving, we baked 117 pies in one day,” Turner recalled. “The drive through made it extra convenient for people preparing big holiday meals.”

Duchess Bakery To Go features a double-side drive through and a walk-up window. On December 15, 2014, the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting outside the trolley car, celebrating the transition of a Bedford icon. The Duchess team offered muffins and coffee to all community members in attendance.

“The ribbon cutting was very exciting for our team,” Turner said. “We want to make sure our customers

know that we have moved, not closed, and the Chamber’s efforts have certainly helped.”

Duchess Bakery To Go is open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 1704 Forest Road in Bedford. The former café space at 405 Crenshaw Street in Bedford is currently available for lease.

Owner Becky Turner’s daughter, seven year old Amanda, enjoys

working in the restored train car with her mom and interacting with their

customers on a regular basis.


RETAIL

School of Aeronautics Dean, Jim Molloy, is working to guide the school above the competition.


TOURISM & TRANSPORTATION

48 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015LynchburgBusinessMag.com

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT: LIBERTY UNIVERSITY’S AVIATION PROGRAM PARTNERS WITH CESSNA PILOT CENTERS

B Y H E AT H E R J . C R AV E N S | P H OTO S B Y J O N N Y H E W I T T

LynchburgBusinessMag.comFEBRUARY/MARCH 2015 49


49LynchburgBusinessMag.comFEBRUARY/MARCH 2015

Cessna Aircraft Company recently announced a partnership between Cessna and Liberty University (LU). The school is expanding their flight training opportunities through

a Flight Training Affiliate (FTA) program in Virginia and across the United States. The recent collaboration with Cessna Aircraft Company opens a wide array of unique opportunities for pilots in training. Textron, who recently bought Cessna Aircraft Company, the world’s leading general aviation company, provides anything from corporate jets to basic trainers. LU’s relationship with Textron offers them a unique collaboration, allowing students to enroll in flight training at qualifying Cessna Pilot Centers and enroll in courses through Liberty University Online that will ultimately lead to a Bachelor of Science Degree in aeronautics or one that best suits the career path they choose to pursue.

“We are very unique here in our program,” said David Young, dean of Liberty University School of Aeronautics and President of Freedom Aviation. “Our Cessna partnership relationship has grown over the years. It doesn’t exist anywhere else in the country.”

The University’s residential aviation program is a normal four-year aviation degree program that teaches students to be pilots, aircraft mechanics and drone operators, among other things. As stated on their website, “The Liberty University Aviation Department trains and mentors young men and women to become exceptional pilots who possess excellent flying skills, sound judgment, professionalism, and strong Christian character.” The

SECOND FROM TOP: School of Aeronautics Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) Program during a jet engine demonstration. MIDDLE LEFT: A Citation Jet parked at Freedom Aviation. MIDDLE RIGHT: Aircraft Maintenance in the Freedom Aviation Hangar. BOTTOM: An aviation student using a FRASCA Piper Arrow Simulator.



program provides opportunities for the traditional student who wants an academic degree to gain hands-on experience in a real-world setting. The school utilizes aircraft as well as simulators to train students, which is less expensive and more efficient in a realistic environment, in case of emergency aircraft failure. Liberty University School of Aeronautics has received FAA certification as part of the National Simulator Program, a certification held by only six other universities in the nation. It is one of the first aviation programs to upgrade its entire fleet of Cessna 172 flight simulators to Level 5 Flight Training Devices (FTD). The simulators reduce training costs and increase student skill proficiencies.

Since the recent collaboration between Cessna Pilot Centers and LU was announced, the next generation of pilots has an enhanced opportunity that adds an educational component to their flight experience. Pilots are not limited to the residential academic program that takes place on the campus in Lynchburg, since this partnership offers an online component. It is advantageous for career professionals seeking a job change and for those currently in the military, veterans or their dependents to enroll and earn a Bachelor of Science Degree while training to become a pilot. If students want to receive an educational component in conjunction with their real-world experience, LU is able to assist their growing education through their extensive catalog of online courses, ultimately enhancing their experience at Cessna Pilot Centers. Not only can they receive flight training, but they can also earn a college degree in an industry of interest. Liberty University School of Aeronautics website states, “This unique educational model will allow students residing near Liberty Flight Training Affiliates (FTA) to complete much of their college coursework online while doing their flight training at their local airport.”

The program is unique in that it is growing at about 30-percent per year — a wonderful recruiting tool for Liberty. A key initiative behind the aviation program LU offers is that it allows financial aid to be available to students that might not otherwise be able to afford such a program. Benefits include federal financial aid and veteran benefits. It is also very appealing since students gain exposure to aircraft and essentially have a guaranteed job after completing the program, since students who complete all requirements have close to a 100-percent employment rate, enabling them to enter the workforce sooner. LU has multiple hiring agreements with SkyWest, ExpressJet, American Eagle and Piedmont Airlines and with reduced hours of flight time required,

students tend to get hired at a much more rapid rate.

“We do not do anything that does not lead to a job,” Young said.

Freedom Aviation, owned by Liberty University, owns a Fixed Based Operator (FBO) through Lynchburg Regional Airport, which supports everything but commercial air service. As stated on their website, “Freedom Aviation…enables the airport and FBO to operate most efficiently to serve the community, and for Liberty School of Aeronautics to adequately prepare pilots and maintenance technicians for service in the expanding industry.”

This aviation center increases potential for growth and development in the Lynchburg community and allows students in the school’s residential aeronautics program to gain exposure to the airline industry. This full-service FBO facility offers hangar rental space in pristine heated hangars and aircraft fueling at competitive pricing, among other services. Rather than competing internally with another FBO, Freedom Aviation equips Lynchburg Regional Airport to compete for customers on a regional level. With over 80 employees, they are expanding their business to charter private clients, assist corporate customers, offer concierge services and conduct aircraft maintenance, which in turn brings economic growth, development and job creation to the community, all while providing opportunities for students to expand their hands-on experience. With regional airlines downsizing, and routes closing, it is a great opportunity to grow business in the local airport so that Lynchburg is less vulnerable to economic changes. Having their own FBO allows Liberty University opportunities for internships, exposure to general aviation operations and employment in the industry.

“We want to put Virginia and most certainly, Lynchburg, on the map,” Young said. “The future is very bright I think. We want to be an Aviation Center of Excellence. What we are bringing to the airport will bolster the economic future.”

For more information, visit liberty.edu/academics/aeronautics or flyfreedomaviation.com.

“We want to put Virginia

and most certainly,

Lynchburg, on the map,”

Young said.

“The future is very bright

I think. We want to be an

Aviation Center of Excellence.

What we are bringing to

the airport will bolster the

economic future.”

ABOVE: A Dassault Falcon private jet parked for maintenance from Freedom Aviation. MIDDLE: The

General Aviation terminal at Lynchburg Airport. RIGHT: Joshua

Tate, first Unmanned Aerial Systems graduate, displaying a Dragon Eye

Unmanned Aircraft outside the School of Aeronautics Academic Center.



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