Meet Matt Johnson, this week's guest editor! Matt has been a Pentagon policymaker, mathematician, corporate change agent, frontman of a punk rock band, and author. While his road through life is certainly winding, at his core he's just a storyteller from Iowa trying to leave this place better than he found it. Matt's first book, American Hearts, is a collection of essays to help us better understand the American Spirit. His second book, Work Songs, is based on the idea that for as long as we've had language, we've had music for the work we do. But modern work has no song, and that's why Matt wrote his recent collection of stories about work that we must not forget. When he's not writing and inspiring RVA through his own work, Matt likes to explore and celebrate this place we all love to call home! Read on for his three tips ...
Walk
a Historic Cemetery
Richmond's cemeteries really can offer limitless perspective during the most stressful and hectic times in life. The walking triggers the physiological healing our bodies need, and the collage of epitaphs can stretch the mind and heart. I'd recommend Hollywood, Evergreen and East End Cemetery, and encourage you to stop and read the gravestones out loud as you walk. Your words will give new life to their legacy and their words might influence yours.
From where I sit, the James River Park System is unmatched. I grew up on the Mississippi, but the weaving trails along the banks and seemingly infinite swimming holes here in Richmond make this the best river experience of any town I know. We may be in the heart of winter, but nothing compares to staring across the James as a nearby train roars by. And if you'd like some company, the Friends of James River Park maintains a 2021 calendar of events filled with organized hikes, educational opportunities, and ways to get involved with improvements to the Park.
This might seem like a curveball in the mix, but as a vegan who has eaten at dives and off-the-grid spots across the world, Harrison Street Cafe is my favorite. The menu is entirely vegetarian, and while they are not destined for a James Beard Award or Michelin Star, there is something magical in the spirit and ethos of this place. The food tastes great, and the ambiance offers a gateway into a time gone by. Limited hours M-F during the pandemic. Order online or by phone for contactless pickup. And whether it's Harrison St. Cafe or another local spot, remember to show some love to our locally owned, independent restaurants this winter.
For as long as we’ve had language, we’ve had songs for the work we do. Whether it’s sea shanties bellowed defiantly against gale-force winds, field songs sung under blistering sun, or industrial folk set to the rhythm of the machines that run, work songs helped our ancestors fight boredom, find meaning, build connections, and survive. But modern work has no song.
There are no hymns to sing in the offices, factories, fields, shops, and restaurants where we work today. We let the music die, and we did it when we needed it the most. And that’s what this book is all about. This is a collection of stories by Richmond author Matt Johnson about work that we cannot let die. Stories that could be our songs.
Here's to great returns! Elisabeth Edelman puts her editor hat back on and returns for a guest spot that's sure to get your year ahead off to a good start. As many longtime Here readers know, Elisabeth founded our weekly newsletter years ago prior to it becoming part of the Richmond Gridfam! In addition to launching Here, Elisabeth is also the proud founder of Golden Word, a powerhouse communications agency that chases doing good work with good people. Prior to Golden Word, she studied journalism at the University of Richmond, cut her teeth on PR with five action-packed years in NYC, and broadened her marketing grasp in-house at Ledbury. Take it away, Elizabeth ...
Despite the considerable headwinds of this pandemic, I tend to focus on what’s still possible and what’s still good. I’m already thinking ahead to 2021 – specifically thinking about what I can do now to set myself up for a strong start to the new year. Here are a few suggestions to help you think big for 2021.
Cloth
& Paper
First things first: let’s get organized. I like making my ideas and plans for the year tangible by writing them down. Richmond-based Cloth & Paper is an incredible resource for planners, notebooks and office supplies – expect chic and minimal. I particularly love the soothing tones of their neutral sticky notes. This is an easy way to make WFH a little more zen.
Reading has been a source of escape, connection and growth through the pandemic, so I’m doubling down for 2021 with a reorg of my book club. I’m excited to ditch the mayhem of email chains and Doodles in favor of Bookclubz, the book club management app that streamlines all communication and keeps book clubs happy. And it's a Richmond-based startup!
And the source of our book selections? I am straight obsessed with bbgb in Carytown. They are perhaps best known for children’s books, but their recommendations across categories are my secret to finding my next stunner of a book.
To round out our 2021 prep, I bet you thought I’d recommend a local gym or workout. Wrong! I’m a serious sweet tooth, and we all need something to look forward to. So let me tip you off to Recess, the dessert delivery service from Charm School co-founder Meryl Hillerson.
Check their Instagram for new menus every other week, then place your order via email or text. Think sweet treats like Apple Galette with Brown Sugar Oat Crumble or Salty Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies. *drooling*
Tap into more of Elisabeth’s tips by checking out Golden Word’s series of virtual PR workshops, “How to Pitch Yourself: For The Job” sessions, and the “Boost.”
With the holiday season upon us, we suggest sticking with the fundamentals in the weeks ahead -- giving back, getting outside, and eating warm donuts. Here are three tips for safely celebrating this place we love to call home this weekend and as we kick off the holidays. See you out there!
Eco-Journaling
on the River
Many of us kept diaries in our youth then abandoned the practice as we got older. But reflecting on our experiences with pen and paper can have numerous benefits – from reducing stress to improving sleep to making it through 2020. Join the free eco-journaling workshop in the beautiful urban wilderness of the James River Park System this Saturday at 3 PM. Eco-journaling combines mindfulness and quiet nature observation to help you simply unwind, reflect, and process the week – no writing or journaling experience required. Saturday’s session will be led by Natalie Stickel, a Richmond based writer, artist, educator, and river guide. “I believe healing of ourselves, our relationships, and our communities happens outside,” explains Natalie.
Vitals:
Saturday, November 21 / 3 PM - 5 PM / Meet at Pony Pasture at 7310 Riverside Dr / Bring a mask / All participants asked to adhere to social distancing of 6+ feet throughout the time together in the park
Warm Cider Donuts
at GrowRVA Market
Nothing says fall like WARM APPLE CIDER DONUTS! First Stop Donuts serves their delicious creations out of a school bus named Flubert! A hardworking everyday short school bus turned armored donut transport vehicle, Flubert can be spotted around Richmond at breweries, farmers markets, festivals and events big and small. On Saturdays you can find the school bus at the GrowRVA Market (formerly known as South of the James Farmers Market now at Bryan Park). Order a bag of donuts and hot cider by First Stop Donuts and spend your Saturday morning outside exploring local farms, local food and local arts.
Vitals:
Saturday, Nov 21 / 9 AM - Noon / GrowRVA Market / Masks required at all times (no eating those donuts in the market area, there's plenty of room in Bryan Park)
Holiday Volunteering Guide
by HandsOnRVA
During this time of year, many Richmonders want to find ways to volunteer, donate an in-kind gift, or weave the importance of giving into their holiday plans. While your holiday giving may look different in 2020, there are still many opportunities to give back in thoughtful and responsible ways. The fine folks at HandsOnRVA have rounded up a handy guide that details ways to give back during this holiday season. Doing a Secret Santa or other gift exchange? Ask for, or give, the gift of charity instead. Tell your coworkers or family you’d like a monetary donation in your name for a favorite local cause. Learn more about ways to align your values to organizations doing work in the Richmond region and create a culture of giving within your own fam this holiday season. Check out the Holiday Philanthropy Guide here. Also check the guide for a list of tips for healthy volunteering to keep you safe while volunteering, gathering supplies, and lending a hand this season.
A favorite tradition at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden featuring lights, decorations, outdoor model trains, dinners, hot chocolate & more! All displays are outdoors with safety measures in place. Beginning November 23! Nightly 4-10 p.m.
Go
