About a year after I moved to Lynchburg over a decade ago, I started attending Young Professionals of Central Virginia events to meet new people and get connected. One of those socials was at a place everyone called “The Academy.”

I hadn’t been to this downtown destination before but was intrigued—because the itinerary said we would be taken on a tour of the Academy’s “historic theater.” The Academy team had been working to raise money to restore the building and wanted us to see its potential.

After walking up a steep hill to Main Street, we entered the old theater through some rundown, dilapidated double doors. To be honest, I wasn’t seeing much potential.

Once inside, we were told to be careful and watch our step. It was dark and cold, with piles of rubble in the corners and cobwebs in the rafters. But I’ll use the words of Academy executive director Geoff Kershner, who described his first encounter with the unrestored Academy on page 72 in our feature story—it was “surreal.” Once I started looking closely (at the architecture and the faded, intricate plaster work) and started listening closely (to our guide who spoke of this turn-of-the-century theater back in its glory days), I started to get it.

There was something absolutely exquisite about that space—even in disrepair.

Fast forward to late 2018 and I’m entering those double doors again for a media tour of the historic Academy of Music Theatre as it was about to reopen for the first time since the late ’50s. Now, those double doors sit under illuminated marquee lights.

When we are led into the theater, it’s hard to imagine this gorgeous performing arts center is the same gutted space I saw 10 years ago.

The rows of classy red seats lead your eye to the stage with its two-story red curtain, framed with an ornate plaster border. Looking out from the stage, no detail was left unnoticed, all the way up to the ceiling that accommodates two balconies. It took about 60 years but a local effort finally paid off. Lynchburg’s landmark theater is back.

Our January/February issue is all about celebrating the “Best Of” Lynchburg and also looking forward—and with the completion of projects such as this in our beloved city, I believe anything is possible. The restored Academy of Music Theatre follows on the heels of the revival of the Virginian Hotel on Church Street. These are big examples, but countless efforts to restore once-thriving buildings and homes are underway everywhere you turn. Instead of throwing in the towel and starting from scratch, our community is rallying around this idea that our past is worth saving.

What a fabulous time it is to be living in Lynchburg.

Shelley Basinger, Managing Editor
Shelley@lynchburgmag.com

You’ve probably seen this research on the news or shared on social media. Psychology experts say putting up your Christmas trees and decorations earlier can make you feel happier since the holidays usually remind us of our less-stressful childhoods. (I had mine up November 10 last year thanks to some nudging by my stepdaughters.)

Maybe it’s the twinkly lights or the way the multi-colored, overly adorned tree fills up a corner of my living room that otherwise looks a little bare throughout the year—but I get it. There is something innately soothing about the sights and sounds of Christmas.

I guess that’s why I’ve been feeling a lot more chipper lately as I work on our annual Holiday Issue. It’s been fun to proof these pages—from the bright and cheery (think pink and orange) Christmas décor seen in our featured home to the five festive holiday destinations we profiled in our Travel section. I’m also excited to try out a few of the recipes in our Taste department for my next meal. Lisa Woodroof, a self-proclaimed “bourbonista,” uses bourbon in marinades, sauces, desserts, side dishes… you name it. And our annual “Look What I Found” Holiday Gift Guide does not disappoint. I’ve already picked up some gift ideas for a few people on my list.

With the holiday season also being a time to focus on the wants and needs of others, we are excited to unveil this year’s winners of our 5th Annual Giving Back Awards. I’m always so impressed and encouraged to hear what our Top 25 nonprofits are doing in the community… often on shoestring budgets with mostly volunteers.

Also in this issue, for the first time in Lynchburg Living, we are dedicating a special section to focus on mental health. In it, you’ll find us tackle topics such as PTSD, bullying and, the catch-all concern for most of us… STRESS.

Remember—while it won’t take away your financial concerns or make your life less chaotic, those experts say your Christmas tree can serve as a form of therapy. So go grab your fake one from the attic or be the first in line at the tree lot down the road. And while you’re at it, keep it up well into the New Year if you want to.

You aren’t crazy. You might actually be better off mentally than the rest of us!

Shelley Basinger, Managing Editor
Shelley@lynchburgmag.com

There have been years of my life where I barely made an appearance at the doctor’s office, in exception to my annual physical. Then there are years, such as this year, where I feel like I might as well have an assigned parking space outside. (Or maybe some sort of punch card where I get a free coffee after a certain number of visits?)

Thankfully, nothing serious was wrong with me—just nausea, heartburn and lower back pain. You guessed it… I’m talking about those numerous visits to the doctor for prenatal care. In 2018, the staff at Women’s Health Services of Central Virginia saw me more often than my good girlfriends. Then in early July, I was in the care of doctors and nurses at Virginia Baptist Hospital as my husband and I welcomed our son, Brooks, into the world (about 2.5 weeks early).

Coinciding with a time in my life where I’m more in tune with my personal health than ever before, I’m very excited about our first ever Lynchburg Living “Health” issue. You’ll find content throughout the magazine that connects to this theme. Including, ART—an impactful program for Alzheimer’s patients/caregivers at the Maier Museum of Art at Randolph College, BODY—the vegetable garden at the Alan B. Pearson Cancer Center heals with its fresh produce as well as its atmosphere, and TASTE—two flavorful and healthy salad recipes using ingredients from local farmers markets.

This issue also features our 2nd Annual Top Docs list. This is a peer-to-peer survey—meaning, doctors themselves chose who they would recommend in dozens of specialties. Find that list, along with an editorial focus on Brain Health, starting on page 62.

I’d like to publically thank a few of the doctors who were a part of my life this year: Kristi Kidd, MD—my OB/GYN; Michael Robertson, MD—who delivered Brooks at the hospital; and Justin Mutch, MD—his pediatrician. We also were taken care of by so many incredible nurses at Virginia Baptist, including Anne Moore, the most genuine cheerleader during our labor and delivery.

And finally, a thank you to a couple of people who stepped in to pick up the slack while I was out on maternity leave: Art Director Chris Meligonis, who wore many hats to keep things running smoothly, and freelance writer Shannon Brennan, who stepped in to write and edit in my absence.

It really does take a village—to raise a child… and a magazine.

Shelley Basinger, Managing Editor
Shelley@lynchburgmag.com

As a child, I couldn’t get enough of the Little House on the Prairie book series. I loved letting my imagination go back to “the olden days” as I read about Laura Ingalls’ life—getting oranges in her Christmas stocking, sleeping on a straw tick mattress, walking to the school house for daily lessons.
My childhood fascination for the past grew with me into adulthood—you’ll still find me reading historical fiction before bed.

So it’s no surprise that when I approached the Virginian Hotel on Church Street for our Lynchburg Living tour in May, I couldn’t stop myself from daydreaming about early 20th century life in the Hill City. Here I was, walking into the same building that travelers had visited more than 100 years ago—before my grandparents had even been born. And I couldn’t help but assume those travelers were just as excited to be inside this luxury hotel as I was.

From the grand opening in 1913 to a developer’s “crazy idea” a few years ago, our This City feature starting on page 45 gives you an in-depth look at the revival of the Virginian Hotel—with details you can’t experience just by walking around inside. I hope you will enjoy hearing little tidbits of history— including the perspective of a woman who lived there her entire childhood—and learning about the modern, local touches that set this hotel apart from your standard lodging experience, such as artwork from area artists and design elements from Central Virginia businesses.

History lovers will also want to flip to our Home feature on page 32 to see the amazing renovation work happening right now on Cabell Street. Local real estate agent Victoria Bartholomew and her family have a true passion for saving historic homes… and they are really, really good at it! We take you inside their latest project (it includes five properties—that’s right… five) and explain the pros and cons of bringing these gorgeous historic properties back to life.

Also in our Summer Issue—it’s wedding season! Hear what’s new in the wedding industry and see who brides themselves recommend for venues, makeup, rentals and more in our “Best of Bridal Picks” list. Plus, consider taking a journey on the region’s newly named Artisan Trail, jumping in the water with James River Adventures, or going “glamping” at a few regional destinations.

From history to recreation to art, Central Virginia truly has it all—for natives and visitors alike. I can see why the risk to restore the Virginian Hotel was worth it for all parties involved.

And while I often like to reflect on the past, I also find myself daydreaming about the future. Just how thriving will our city be 100 years more years down the road?

Shelley Basinger, Managing Editor
Shelley@lynchburgmag.com

A real-life text message conversation with my husband:

Me: “I think I found a rug I like for the living room.”
Him: “Great.”
Me: “I went ahead and ordered it.”
Him: “Sounds good.”
Me: “If I don’t like it…are you going to be mad if we have to roll it up and take it back?”
Him. “No.”

That’s true love folks. Because here’s the background story—this wasn’t the first try for an 8×10 living room rug. This rug…would be rug number three since we moved into our new home six months ago. The other two just weren’t “right.” (Poor guy. He thought the first one looked fine.)

Call me indecisive, but I would rather have a bare floor than a rug I’m just “okay” with. I believe each item we purchase, each flower we plant, and each update we make should improve the feel of our homes—not make us feel uneasy.

If you are just as deliberate about décor and projects around your house, our special Expanded Home and Garden section is for you. I absolutely love Christina Gerstner’s vintage style in our Home feature—it’s one of a kind. She explains how you can pull it off as well as how to collect with meaning… and without adding clutter. We also talked to local experts about two easy ways to freshen up your home’s look: wallpaper (it’s not your grandma’s wallpaper) and the front door. And in Gardening, learn about the history of garden design before stepping outside to apply Susan Timmon’s “DIY Garden Design in 8 Steps.”

And you won’t just learn a new thing or two in that section. Our Education Issue also features the bigger vision for University of Lynchburg, a growing school of arts downtown, and our 2018 Top Teachers list. Hear from this year’s winners about what inspires them to go above and beyond in the classroom each day.

And in case you’re wondering, third time’s a charm. That third rug was exactly what I had been looking for. Some advice from an amateur decorator: Whether it’s a few pieces of new décor in a room or a complete overhaul of your garden, those home improvement projects take time… and, often, a lot of trial and error.

Be sure to cut yourself (and your spouse) some slack this spring!

Cheers,

Shelley Basinger, Managing Editor
Shelley@lynchburgmag.com

My favorite part about winter? When it’s over.”

A friend of mine posted this meme on Facebook the other day and I immediately clicked “like.” I have perpetually cold hands, hate wearing bulky sweaters and could live a long, successful life without seeing another flake of snow. (Note: As I sit writing this letter at my kitchen island, I’m wearing calf-high fuzzy slippers and have a blanket wrapped around my shoulders.)

I know I have plenty of company—those of you who are over winter before it even starts. And then the rest of you probably fall into a category similar to this: you’re really gung-ho about the cold and snow at first but by mid-January… bring on those spring breezes already!

Let’s all try to get through this together, folks. I have just the magazine to help.

When you’re stuck inside avoiding the arctic blast, there is no better time to stew on some new dinner ideas. Literally. We are teaching you how to “Do the Stew” in our Taste department with a few pointers that will bring you slow cooking success. This includes a recipe for a Simple Beef Stew that is cost effective, warm and fulfilling, and can feed your family for a couple of days (as long as you put in a little time and energy).

Another indoor cold weather activity that is also productive? Decluttering and simplifying your home. Local interior designer Selena Campbell is an expert and admits that she used to have way too much extra stuff sitting around herself. Get her advice on where to start and see the inside of her beautiful home that has the most mellow, calming vibes.

Heading to Virginia Beach in January or February may not seem like that much of a party. But this time of the year is actually the best season for an incredible excursion off the coast—whale watching. In our Travel department, we have a firsthand experience of what it’s like to go out searching for these incredible animals with the Virginia Aquarium.

Of course, we also can’t forget the bread and butter of this issue—our 2018 Best Of Lynchburg results. Kick back next to the fire and flip through to see who was voted Gold, Silver, Bronze and Honorable Mention in dozens of categories—businesses, restaurants, events… you name it. We counted a whopping 136,000 votes on our website (lynchburgliving.com) this year!

To close, I apologize for my negative attitude about winter. Now that I think about it and have a little bit more of a positive outlook, there is one good thing about it…
Winter really makes me appreciate the other three seasons that much more!

Stay warm,

Shelley Basinger, Managing Editor
Shelley@lynchburgmag.com

Oh, the memories of bringing home our family’s Christmas tree as a kid.

My dad was a “go big or go home” type of Christmas tree buyer—it was standard for us to have a 10-, 11- even 12-foot tree in the back of his truck.

Then, there was the most festive part of the evening—the process of bringing the tree inside and setting it up. A process that generally included cursing, lamps breaking and the dogs hiding in the garage out of fear.

Despite always getting massive trees, we never invested in a Christmas tree stand that would actually hold a large one. It took all four of us, an hour of repositioning and a few strands of fishing line attached to the wall to get the tree into a halfway decent upright position.

But later that evening, once the family arguments subsided and my mom and I had fit as many ornaments as possible onto every branch, it was worth it. A tall tree really did look great in our two-story living room. And I always loved that we had a real tree. Every year it looked a little different and was unique to that particular Christmas.

As you get ready to decorate your homes this holiday season, we are focusing on the art of decorating the “old-fashioned way” in our Gardening department. Susan Timmons looks at the history of Christmas trees and how to incorporate real greenery into your décor. You may also get some ideas from a local woman who takes Christmas very seriously. In our Home department, go on a tour of the Beelers’ iconic Georgian Colonial in Forest that starts getting its makeover before Halloween arrives.

We also have our 12th Annual “Look What I Found!” Holiday Gift Guide that I hope will encourage you to visit some of the area’s fabulous local businesses. And to focus on the real giving spirit, we are highlighting 25 of the area’s top nonprofits (as voted by the community) in our 4th Annual Giving Back Awards.

Don’t feel left out if my story above has you saying, “But, Shelley, we don’t get a real tree.”

Neither do we.

My husband and I visited a local tree farm a few years ago. We accidentally chose a white pine that was way too big and (just like my childhood) fought to get it inside and keep it upright all season long. Moving forward, we decided an artificial tree with predictable measurements would be better right now (for our marriage at least!).

But I will always look back on those real trees of my childhood with a smile. I had no idea at the time that those stressful evenings would turn into cherished memories.

Here’s to your holiday season and the real-life moments you will remember for years to come,

Shelley Basinger, Managing Editor
Shelley@lynchburgmag.com

Just the other day I was thinking about a good childhood friend of mine named Jacob. We started out in kindergarten together. I remember, since Jacob was Jewish, his mother coming to school to tell us how they celebrated Hanukah. We played dreidel games and ate potato latkes.

In sixth grade, Jacob was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

He missed a lot of school getting treatments that my parents told me made him feel really sick. At one point, he lost all of his dark brown hair.

Our group of friends got together, raised some money, then went to the mall to buy Jacob these cool toys we knew he’d like—gadgets that would make him smile when he felt bad. I remember the look on his face when we gave him everything. He was shocked and speechless, almost embarrassed by all of the attention.

I hadn’t thought of Jacob and his cancer in years, but he came to mind after I talked to Buck Walker on the phone this summer. Buck’s youngest son, Knox, is battling leukemia. He’s seven years old. Since August 2016, the Walkers have been traveling back and forth to UVA for his chemo treatments.

With a child of my own sleeping in the other room right now, I can only imagine how tough it is to hear that diagnosis then watch the painful side effects that follow. Then, all of the “what ifs” as you wait for test results to come back.

But the Walkers—wow—they impressed me with their outlook.

Their calm. Their faith in God to guide them. In fact, I spoke with three other people affected by cancer for this issue, as we chose to focus on oncology for our 1st Annual Lynchburg Living Top Docs issue. (Read all of their stories starting on page 66.) While cancer is scary and intimidating, I left each conversation so encouraged and inspired. I heard about the incredible doctors and nurses who helped them along the way, the support they found from family, and the strength they unearthed in themselves. Each person fought cancer… and came out on the other side an improved person, more grateful and more giving.

Maybe we should all live like we’ve beaten cancer. The world might be a better place.

By the way, Jacob beat cancer. And more than 20 years later, he has a pretty cool resume that includes Broadway, directing, producing, acting—you name it.

I can’t wait to find out where life takes Knox.

Shelley Basinger, Managing Editor
Shelley@lynchburgmag.com
P.S.: To my father in law, Larry, who has been fighting Acute Myleoid Leukemia this year, you’ve got this! I hope we hear the word “remission” very soon.

When you see it on paper, your brain makes the obvious connections. Summer=hot, sweat, beach, school’s out, vacation, etc.

But I did a little research (because I’m a vocabulary nerd) and learned about a hidden meaning. The word “summer” is from the Proto-Indo-European root “sam,” which means summer. “Sam” is a variant of the root “sem,” which means “together/one.”

So there it is. Hidden–but not shocking. Summer is the season of togetherness.

Maybe you find that togetherness over a big plate of juicy ribs, fresh off the grill. In our Taste department on page 107, we are sharing the stories of some of the best barbecue experts in the city. We also tracked down one of the most well-known pitmasters in the U.S., Lynchburg-native Tuffy Stone. You’ll learn a lot about your grill, marinades and much more in a Q&A with him on page 114.

Maybe you find that togetherness hitting the town to enjoy these warm summer evenings. Lynchburg is not New York City—but when it comes to our nightlife, there’s more going on than you might realize. On page 123, a rideshare driver handed over some of his “Notes from Behind the Wheel” to show how busy our city is… and where people are hanging out.

Maybe you find that togetherness through a shared appreciation for a work of art. On page 29, we are spotlighting several new outdoor art collaborations in different parts of the city. The organizer of one project, teacher Kimberly Gibson-McDonald, even explains how the display of art “brings us together.” (And it just makes the city better looking too.)

Or, maybe you find that togetherness visiting Smith Mountain Lake with friends or family. If you’re like me, you cruise by those gorgeous waterfront homes and daydream about what it must be like inside. Starting on page 34, tour a custom home that is a part of this year’s
SML Charity Home Tour in October. The view—absolutely breathtaking.

And for anyone wanting to pack the most fun they can into a short visit to the lake, we have two step-by-step travel itineraries for you to follow on page 50.

I hope you are enjoying this issue of Lynchburg Living beside a pool, on a boat or anywhere that helps you relax. And if you aren’t, I hope you are at least living out the hidden meaning of summer by spending quality time with the ones you love.

Stay cool,

Shelley Basinger, Managing Editor
Shelley@lynchburgmag.com

Over the past eight months, I have really enjoyed watching my daughter as she experiences everything for the first time. From the confused look on her face when we sat her down in her first bath to the way she giggled the first time we put her into her Bumbo seat—I’ve loved all of it. But one of my favorite parts has been watching her eat “real” food. Sometimes, she clearly does NOT like what we are shoveling into her tiny mouth. But I remember when we gave her peas and carrots…her eyes got wide, a little smile, then she dove in for more. Getting to witness that “aha!” moment for her taste buds was such a treat!

As adults, we all still have those moments when we whip up a recipe of our own or try out a new restaurant’s signature dish. And in this issue, we are celebrating that love for flavor and how food brings everyone together. It all starts with our cover. A local college artist helped us turn the Hill City skyline into a fun, food-filled wonderland. Hear what it took to make this happen and meet the illustrator on page 24.

Our downtown is thriving with new restaurants popping up so often, it’s hard to keep track. And in the growing communities of Wyndhurst, Cornerstone and Forest, we’re also seeing lots of new locally-owned places to eat. To continue celebrating Lynchburg’s local restaurant scene, get ready for our 6th Annual Lynchburg Restaurant Week, June 10-17. On page 77, browse the mouth-watering menus offered by 23 local restaurants that are participating this year. They have put a lot of thought into creating the perfect meal for you so start planning your stops and try something new.

Another destination that’s really taking off—Route 151 in Nelson County, home to breweries, a distillery and much more. But it’s not just a place for boozing; you’ll also find a lot of great dishes along the way. In our Taste department, food writer Rachel Dalton tells you what she experienced during her “Day on 151.”

Closer to home, a story that combines a love of good (and good-for-you) food with a commitment to serving others. Read about Common Grounds Café,
a mission of Church of the Covenant, on page 113. And we are also sharing some of their favorite breakfast recipes that you can try out at home!
Virginia Woolf hit the nail on the head when she said, “One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.” Whether you decide to roll up your sleeves and cook a big family dinner or meet friends at the newest restaurant, I hope this issue will re-energize your love for food.
Because you don’t have to be an eight-month-old baby to have an “aha!” moment with your taste buds.

Cheers,

Shelley Basinger, Managing Editor
Shelley@lynchburgmag.comEditor’s Letter May/June 2017