Photo by Justin Chesney
In This Issue
72 / Ripples Calvin Arey’s decision to share the story of his brutal years inside Virginia’s prison system and his role in a landmark prison reform case has led to the creation of “freedom libraries” in prisons across the state, inspiring and motivating current inmates. By Dale Brumfield
76 / The Real Thing Musical tribute acts bring the spirit of beloved artists — including Prince, Tom Petty and Neil Diamond — to life at bars and venues near you. By Greg Weatherford
84 / Hot and Fresh As Richmond’s dining scene continues to flourish, we tracked down some new, must-visit additions to the region’s culinary menu, including top-notch restaurants, boozy respites, exciting pop-ups and more. Come hungry. By Bird Cox, Stephanie Ganz, Eileen Mellon and Genevelyn Steele
UPFRONT
16 / From the Editor
LOCAL
26 / Best & Worst Part II Highs and lows of 2022
30 / Nonprofits More than 10 million meals have been served on wheels by Feed More.
30 / Shopping Richmond loves its thrift stores.
32 / Q&A Richmond takes another step toward its goal of attaining net-zero emissions by 2050 with its new sustainability director, Laura Thomas.
34 / In Memoriam Honoring lives well lived — notable Richmonders we lost in the past year
36 / My Take It’s time for Richmond’s leaders to step up and get to work. By Jon Baliles
40 / Flashback A tenured writer reflects on 30 years spent penning a column sparked by exploring the city and the region’s history. By Harry Kollatz Jr.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
44 / Datebook Saxophonist Mindi Abair brings holiday sounds, “Submerged in Sleep” is at the Highpoint Gallery, “A Richmond Big Band Christmas” plays the VMFA, “The Hip Hop Nutcracker” is back, and Dominion GardenFest of Lights returns.
47 / Q&A A year later, fiddler Jeremy Garrett and the rest of The Infamous Stringdusters make good on a promise.
48 / Spotlight Ashland’s Light Up the Tracks embodies small town charm and holiday history. By Meredith Moran
50 / Profile “A Magical Cirque Christmas” tells its holiday story through magic, music and acrobatics. By Tayler Butters
LIVING
56 / Style Gifts and gear to celebrate a festive season
58 / Try This Yes, baby, it’s cold outside, but it’s also a great time to get out and be active with your offspring.
60 / Your Health Tracking trauma-induced chromosomal changes in children may help predict health woes later in life.
64 / Travel The Cape Fear region of North Carolina offers an array of outdoor activities, a vibrant waterfront in Wilmington and a chance to encounter an albino alligator.
68 / Family The Junior Assembly Cotillion evolves with the times. By Laura Anders Lee
EAT & DRINK
114 / In-Depth Tenured chef Laine Myers finds success and stability through Oro pasta.
116 / Ingredient Octopus
118 / Spotlight Greek matriarch Stella Dikos of the namesake Lafayette Street restaurant and markets
119 / Q&A CapSoul Brewing Collective aims to become the first Black-owned brewery in Richmond.
120 / Open Tab A very thirsty Richmond gift guide for the imbibers in your life
121 / Purveyor A local olive oil company sources from around the world.
121 / 5 Faves From slices to full-sized rounds, the sinful season of cheesecake is upon us.
122 / Perspective Reflecting on holidays spent working in the service industry By Eileen Mellon
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