CEO MAGAZINE
Ju ly 20 15 Iss ue
Supporting Women Who Do It All
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Don’t Have the Balls to Say It?
Check out CEO’s 1st Official Restaurant Fan Review
Noodle Bar
Meet the Winners of the
2015
Find out
How
The
STAYCAY
#MYBFFisBetter Challenge
Edition Turn your Home
Staycay
into a
Retreat
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF YOUR LIFE
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Your Staycay BEGINS NOW...
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2015 July July 2015
CEO MAGAZINE
Find out what’s happening in our upcoming editions:
CEO Hears You
Are people talking about us? Tell us what they are saying and you too can be featured in our next issue. Email: ceohearsyou@ceosofrva.com
Calling All Bloggers!
CEO is looking for new and current bloggers. Share with our readers your daily journey, interesting articles, and your achievements and learning moments. Go to ceosofrva.com and look for the CONTRIBUTE button or email: editor@ceosofrva.com
Innovators
Do you know any young people ages 11 -22 who are making an impact on the community in the areas of Art/Culture, Educational Scholars/Sports, Enterprise/ Corporate Innovations, Journalism, Science/Technology, and Social Activism/Justice? If so, complete an Innovator’s application on our website at ceosofrva.com or email: editor@ceosofrva.com
September/October
The Unmasked Edition Take a journey with CEO Magazine as we explore the things that men and women keep hidden. Share your story to inspire another woman or man. Also, we are looking for funny ways you hide things such as covering up gray hair or a few extra pounds. Send us your story at editor@ceosofrva.com. If your story is used, you may remain anonymous. Email: editor@ceosofrva.com
November/December
#thepowerofsharing Are you or a business/non-profit giving back to the community? Tell us about it at editor@ceosofrva.com
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Downtown Richmond, VA near Shockoe Bottom
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Publisher’s Publisher’s Letter Letter Publisher’s Letter Places Places to to Take Take Your Your Kids Kids Places to Take Your Kids C CEO’s EO’s 1st 1st Official Official Restaurant Restaurant Review: Fan Noodle Bar C EO’s 1st Official Restaurant Review: Fan Noodle Bar Review: Fan Noodle Bar Feature: Feature: #MYBFFisBEtter #MYBFFisBEtter Winner of the Feature:of #MYBFFisBEtter Winner the BFF BFF Challenge Challenge Winner of the BFF Challenge Don’t Don’t Have Have to to Balls Balls to to Say Say It: It: Find Out How. Don’t Have to Balls to Say It: Find Out How. Find Out How. Learn Learn How How to to Staycay Staycay Learn How to Staycay 5 5 Ways Ways to to Turn Turn Your Your Home Home Into Into A Personal Retreat 5 to Turn Your Home Into A Ways Personal Retreat A Personal Retreat
7102Midlothian Turnpike Richmond, VA 23225 804-422-5375
1215 WEST BROAD STREET Richmond, VA 23220 804-358-5793 4
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CEO MAGAZINE
Chief Executive Of your Life
Publishers
Sharon & Robert Oliver
sharon@ceosofrva.com
Editor-At-Large
Diane Williams
diane@ceosofrva.com
Content Editor
Chaya Braxton
chaya@ceosofrva.com
Copy Editor
Ashley Hewlett
ashley@ceosofrva.com
Photo Director / Project Manager
Jadien R. Jones
jadien@ceosofrva.com
Editorial Assistant / Staff Writer
Jennifer Drummond
jennifer@ceosofrva.com
Advertising and Sales Manager
Robert Oliver
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Advertising and Sales Representative
Eric Mohta
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Operations Administrator
Natalie Munford
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Disclaimer Front cover photo credit: Platinum Photography. with Stylist Credit: Natalie Munford, Makeup Artist: Abegail Burts / Aloma. Lead Designer: Ervins Ellins. Ad Designer: Adrian Taylor. CEO Magazine is published by CEO Magazine, LLC. For information on reprints and e-prints, please contact CEO Magazine’s Corporate Office at 804-277-4409 or email your request to info@ceosofrva.com All correspondences should be addressed to P.O. Box 33 Mechanicsville VA 23111. The CEO Magazine trademark and logo are owned in the United States and in the rest of the world by CEO Magazine LLC. CEO Magazine is a free publication, available at Martin’s supermarkets and various locations in the Metropolitan Richmond area. For a complete list of CEO Magazine’s distribution locations, visit www.ceosofrva.com
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a letter from Bobby This month, we are celebrating BFFs (Best Friends Forever). As one of the publishers of CEO, I didn’t have to think too hard on what I would write about this month because I know my wife’s BFFs very well. Therefore, I had a brilliant idea about writing about BFFs from a male’s point of view. My mission was to let women know that as men, we are fully aware of the contribution that BFFs make to our significant other’s lives. With Sharon’s blessing of course (smile), let me share my perspective of her BFFs: her sisters, Lisa and Diane. For over fourteen years, I have witnessed these ladies share good and bad times. I have seen them overcome adversities in their personal and professional lives. Also, I have seen them pull together to achieve great things. These three BFFs are affectionately known as the “Ants” in our family. The children refer to them as the “Ants” because whatever goes on with any of them, the BFFs get on the phone and carry the news from one to the other like they are taking food back to the colony to feed the Queen Ant. As anyone in this family soon learns, these BFFs discuss everything. As a brother-in-law to Diane and Lisa, I have often warned potential suitors of the tight bond that exists between these ladies and that you can never take one’s side over the other. I have also warned them that you never want the “Ants” to unite their power against you because they are a 6
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force with which to be reckoned! As Sharon’s husband, I appreciate Lisa and Diane supporting both of our dreams. They are honest with her when she is wrong and come running at all costs when she calls. I have seen these ladies spend all night at hospitals wiping tears and consoling one another. I have seen them hide each other’s shopping purchases, and above all hold each other accountable. Like many men, I don’t always acknowledge the contribution that BFFs make to the lives of our loved ones, so I am saying it for all men: “We Appreciate You!” I hope you enjoy reading the stories of other awesome friendships in this issue. Also, I am pleased to announce CEO Magazine’s first Staycation Guide, which offers you a glimpse of great places to eat and stay around the Central Virginia area. You don’t have to buy a plane or train ticket to go on vacation, just make a few calls, gas up the car and go. Please send me pictures of your vacations around the area to editor@ceosofrva.com
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Enjoy a fun packed excursion at this local outdoor experience located in Downtown Richmond. You and your family can enjoy guided canoeing, white water rafting and kayaking, recreational climbing and interest camps for kids.
To find out more about Camp Chef ,other classes and various locations. Visit: www.edibleedu.com
Visit www.riversideoutfitters.net for more information.
Castle Rock Party Center
Castle Rock is a theme party center. Our focus and vision is to make every party unique and different every time. Let us handle the details and create the perfect atmosphere for your ultimate theme party! Just sit back and relax while we plan, host and direct your next event. Castle Rock is located in the Victorian House between Genito Rd. and Hull Street. We are the reason why they call the shopping center Victorian Square. Visit our website www.castlerock.va.com
It’s Festival Time! Summer is festival season in Richmond, VA. It is a fun and affordable way to expose your family to different cultures and cuisine. Whether you are attending the Indian, Chicken Wing or Philipino Festivals, there is something for everyone.
Places to Eat…
CEO Magazine Places to Take Kids …Staycation Guide 2015
Join Edible Education for Hands On Living For Healthy Lessons in Richmond, VA for this summer. Have your child learn the basic essentials of creating a nutritious meal.
For more information on Festivals in Richmond, VA, visit: http://www.visitrichmondva.com/events/
CEO MAGAZINE
Be sure to mention #CEOReview during your visit to Fan Noodle Bar By: Shawn Grow June marked a year since couple, Sonny and Vow Kiatsuranon, opened Fan Noodle Bar. I would say they outdid themselves, but coming from the family who owns one of the best strings of authentic Thai Restaurants in Richmond, including Mom’s Siam in Carytown and Mom’s Siam 2 in Shockoe Bottom, I expect nothing less. It was love at first sight when I walked into the new hot spot that sits on the corner of Strawberry St and Main St in Richmond’s Fan District. The modern, stylish furnished interior and nightly specials make Fan Noodle ideal for a late night getaway.
I arrived after Happy Hour ended at 7:05 p.m. Since the drinks were not so happy anymore, I ordered the Thai Tea ($3), a creamy spiced tea with an orange blossom color and a sweet yet strong taste. For my entrée, I had the Tom Yum spaghetti with shrimp, a complex mix of stir fried vegetables, cheese and fish sauce ($14). Normally I can eat a lot, but my stomach was full. Still the fat boy inside of me was determined to eat as much as I could! Sonny sent out an additional entrée. It was the Suki Yaki soup ($14) which had the juiciest shrimp I’ve ever eaten. It had a very hot, spicy flavor that cleared my sinuses completely. This Suki Yaki soup is something special with all the
right ingredients. I left feeling satisfied with to-go boxes full of Fan Noodle yumminess. All in all, I am highly impressed by my entire Fan Noodle experience. Everything from the food to the ambiance gets 4 out of 4 stars. I cannot wait to come back again and again! 9
Toia Janee Bates & Lois Lewis-Jolley Lois Lewis-Jolley tells CEO Magazine why she and her BFF (Best Friends Forever), Toia Bates, deserve to be recognized as the top BFFs in RVA. Toia and I met in 1994 at VCU while we were both freshmen and living in the same dormitory. We have been cuffed together as BFFs ever since. We have been through everything together, some good, bad and very ugly situations. We never hold grudges. Actually, we don’t even disagree often enough to be noted. We are ride or die partners in life. Toia has been fully supportive of my businesses. She has been an ear in the 10
middle of the night when I’m at my tipping point. She has completely accepted me for who I am. We can go weeks without talking to each other and come back into complete alignment with each other when we talk again. A good example of her unconditional love for me is how she and her family live in another county but they will take the time to come see me where I live or work at any given time — even though I hardly do the same. She never gets upset about it....although she may talk a little mess but her actions show she loves me anyway. I have never had a friend like her...she is everything. She’s a mother, a wife to be, a daughter, a manager, a support system and I can go on. She doesn’t look for recognition but she deserves all of the recognition in the world. I have watched her become a Godly woman, who is now fearless and strong. She carries heavy weights on her shoulders with grace, integrity and the most beautiful smile. You will love her like I do. Lois, we do love her as much as you do! Congratulations on being chosen as the winners of CEO’s #MYBFFISBETTER contest! Lead Photo Credit: Platinum Photography by Lorenzo Background
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Stylist: Abigail Burts In honor of June’s National Best Friend Month, CEO Magazine issued the 2015 #MYBFFisBetter Challenge. Our readers submitted a video or photo and stories of why they have the best friendship. The winners of our challenge received a photo shoot, the front cover of CEO’s July edition and an all expense Staycay experience in Richmond, VA that included a spa package and dinner. Meet the BFF Winners: Lois and Toia.
Stylist: Rebecca Wylie
Heather Dunning and Tish Sams My beloved Bestest Friend is Tish Melinda Sams. This amazing woman has been there since the beginning, and I know in my heart will be there ‘til the end. From the time we were 5 years old, we went through the mud and muck together, literally. We grew from country tomboys who thrived in competition with all of the boys to well-traveled and adventurous women who support and love their men and families in every way. The beauty of our friendship is we are willing to show up and continue to grow with each other– not apart. No matter how far away we live, whom we share our daily lives with, or how busy our routines have become, our relationship remains in harmony through it all. Much Love Tishy! You rock and life truly wouldn’t be the same without you. Love and Light, Heather V. Dunning Background Photo Credit: JadienJones Photography
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Conversing wit ht he Elephant:
Conversations with Friends That We Really Don’t Want to Have
by Terrincinia St.Clair
I was told years ago that if I turn forty and still have three good girlfriends consider myself lucky. I was perplexed. We meet many women over the course of forty years, why would we have only three girlfriends? I’ve discovered that many times, it boils down to communication, or lack thereof. It’s unfortunate, but some of us will walk away from a womanwho has been a great friend, over a disagreement or misunderstanding, without discussion. Too often, we don’t have these conversations because they are simply too uncomfortable, and it is easier, in the short-term, to walk away from a situation rather than confront it. We as girlfriends should understand that we are flawed as individuals. We should get that we are hormonal and emotionally sloppy at times. But in understanding the value of our friendships, have we should have the difficult or awkward conversations, confront the elephant in the room and strengthen our friendships.
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by Terrinicina St.Clair
In my book, Conversing with the Elephant: 25 Things our Girlfriends Don’t Have the Balls to Tell Us, I list twenty-five scenarios, where we should be honest and forthright with our girlfriends. Each of these situations fall under one of these three categories: • Our girlfriend is doing something extremely offensive. • She is doing something that is going to damage her peace, livelihood or character. • She is doing something or looking ridiculous. Initiate the dialogue with love and kindness. A true and good friendship survives honesty. This is not to suggest that confronting the situation is easy, but like most things, it is worth it in the long run. Honestly, discussing challenging issues with your girlfriends builds trust and strengthens friendships.
CEO MAGAZINE Join CEO’s Elite Group of Wedding Experts and position yourself to connect with couples who are ready to tie the knot.Get exclusive placement in Richmond’s newest women’s magazine and have access to 10,000+ readers. Ask us about special rates to be included in our 2015 Wedding Directory. Want to know more? CONNECT WITH US AT advertise@ceosofrva.com with the keyword “WEDDING DIRECTORY” in the subject line.
Tracy’s Favorite Ways
to Staycay Many people are choosing to stay in the area for vacation – and what a wonderful area it is to explore! Here is a list of my family’s favorite things to do during the summer: 1. Visit Maymont Park - Pack a lunch, grab a blanket and enjoy Maymont Park. While you are there, take a guided tour through the mansion, walk the beautiful gardens or visit the wildlife exhibit. We recently visited the park on Mother’s Day and fell in love all over again with the park!!! 2. Attend local festivals - There is always something going on in Metro Richmond. There is a festival for everyone: Carytown Watermelon Festival, Richmond Jazz Festival, Richmond Vegetarian Festival, Richmond Bacon Festival, and Richmond Pet Expo.
By Tracy Hopkins Just google the weekend that you are free and go out and enjoy a festival. Here are a few websites that we found: www.virginia.org/summerfestivals/ www.visitrichmondva.com/events/ festivals/
CEO WEDDINGS
3. Visit Williamsburg - Spend the night in Williamsburg and wake up the next day and visit Colonial Williamsburg and shop the outlets or spend the day at Busch Gardens or Water Country USA. 4. Enjoy some beach time - Want to go to the beach, but don’t feel like driving to VA Beach? Try Buckroe or Yorktown Beaches. They are less crowded and it takes half the time to get there.
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Sweet & Sassy Tea for The Mason
by Aloma
You can bring the flair of summer vacation to an at-home soiree with your girlfriends. All you need are a few simple ingredients and mason jars. • Put 4 to 6 tea bags of any flavor into a clean 2 quart glass container. Fill container with water and cap. • Place outside where the sunlight can strike the container for about
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3 to 5 hours. • Move the container if necessary to keep it in the sun. • When the tea has reached its desired strength, remove from the sun and place it in the refrigerator. Chill unto cold. • Pour the tea into mason jars, garnish with fruit, mint (optional) and cocktail umbrellas, then serve. Makes 8 – 9 servings
CEO MAGAZINE
Are you on a budget and don’t have the time to take a vacation this year? Here are some ways you can experience rest and relaxation at home.
#1 Unplug
Don’t answer the phone. Set up an automatic reply to all incoming emails. Set the expectation that you will be away. Designate an emergency person to screen your calls. You may have to plead, beg or even pay a personal assistant –but it’s worth it.
#2 Stock the Refrigerator
I don’t like to cook on vacation, but if that’s you, stock up on your favorite foods. You can also set aside a budget for takeout. My daughter and I like Chinese. Remember, coupons are your best friend.
#3 Rent Your Favorite Movies
Indulge in classics that you do not have time to watch, normally. Sequels like Rocky and Karate Kid or chick flicks like The Notebook and Casablanca, Steel Magnolias, and Breakfast at Tiffany’s are perfect. Make sure you have the time and space to cry or laugh.
#4 Create a Zen Room
Choose a space and make it comfortable. Grab some of your favorite pillows and music to create a place for you to rest. Running water from a fountain with beautiful stones can add to your experience. Bring your favorite book, affirmation or journal for a time of reflection.
#5 Create a Spa
Grab your favorite sugar scrub, turn on your favorite music channel, light a scented candle and relax in a warm bath. Finish your pampering by drying off with a lush towel or robe and lather with your favorite moisturizer.
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Places to Eat…
CEO Magazine Places to RELAX …Staycation Guide 2015
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The Sole of the Matter by Jennifer M. Drummond
Whether you buy a pair of Manolo Blahnik stilettos, Christian Louboutin red soles, or black pumps from Payless, know that whatever you choose will have an impact on your feet. “The foot is probably the most important structure in the entire body. It is the one thing that keeps you ambulating, mobile and it allows you to be able to stand,” said Jonathan N. Brantley, DPM, Chief of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery and the Director of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery Residency Program at the Hunter Holmes McGuire Medical Center in Richmond, Virginia.
they can rub and irritate the skin between the first and second toe. “Women are God’s beautiful creatures though they don’t tend to want to compromise on shoe gear,” says Dr. Brantley with a wide grin. Another common foot problem is fungal infection also known as athlete’s foot. “If untreated it winds up spreading to your toenails. Once it spreads to the toenails, it can be extremely difficult to get rid of,” says Dr. Brantley. Topical and oral medications are available to treat it. Dr. Brantley leaves us with the following advice: In the summer, put sunscreen on all exposed parts of the body including the feet, and in the winter, don’t forget to wear arch supports and make sure your closed shoes don’t leak. Foot care doesn’t start as an adult either. Dr. Brantley recommends parents take their children to a podiatrist as soon as they start walking. Ladies, we always want our shoes to look good, but don’t forget how important it is to protect what goes in the shoes.
According to Dr. Brantley, the negative effect of wearing five or six inch heels, for example, is immediate. He says the height of the heel can cause the Achilles tendon in your calf muscle to shorten and tighten. In addition, hammertoes, bunions and corns are all common foot problems that can occur with shoes that are too narrow or fit poorly. Yet, Brantley said there are shoe brands out there that are well constructed and offer excellent support including SAS, Aetrex and Dansko. Dr. Brantley exclaims that flip flops are absolutely the worst because
Dr. Jonathan M. Brantley , MD, DPM
CEO MAGAZINE
Jadien Jones is a custom maternity, wedding and portrait photographer located in Central Virginia, and serves the Metro Richmond Area and surrounding cities. His studio is located in Richmond, Virginia where he conducts maternity, wedding portraits and family portrait studio sessions. Outdoor sessions for maternity and family portraits are available as well.
Please visit www.jadienjones.com (804) 921-5156 Contact@JadienJones.com www.jadienjones.com 17