Meet this week's guest editor, Mike Harrison, an interior decorator and artist who recently made Richmond his home. Originally from New York, Mike’s background includes living alongside actors, musicians, and fellow struggling artists, an experience that profoundly shaped his approach to design. His work emphasizes relatable, budget-conscious spaces that inspire creativity and foster a sense of safety and comfort.
For Mike, a great week includes uncovering a thrift-store treasure, indulging in chicken wings, engaging in meaningful conversations that offer fresh perspectives, and embracing spontaneity with a resounding "yes" to new opportunities.
Take it away, Mike ...
Deals & Treasures at Diversity Thrift
If you’re looking for a must-visit spot, Diversity Thrift should be at the top of your list. This hidden gem is part of Diversity Richmond, an organization dedicated to creating an inclusive community that is safe and welcoming for LGBTQ+ individuals, families, and allies. Their mission is to serve as a catalyst, a voice, and a resource that enriches and champions diversity.
I can confidently say I’ve never walked out of Diversity Thrift without scoring an incredible find for my home. Knowing that every purchase supports such an important mission makes shopping there even more meaningful.
Vitals:
Diversity Thrift / Gallery and thrift open daily from 10:00 am - 6:00 pm (donation drop-off until 3:00 pm) / Diversity Thrift: 1407 Sherwood Avenue
Touchdowns & Turkey: Thanksgiving at HomeTeam Grill
Next up is HomeTeam Grill, the perfect spot to unwind and catch a game. I’ve had some amazing conversations with strangers here, and the welcoming vibe makes it easy to feel at home—shopping bags and all! Whether you’re looking for a laid-back environment to relax after a shopping spree or a place to watch football on Thanksgiving Day, Home Team Grill hits the mark. Vitals:
Thanksgiving at HomeTeam Grill / Thursday, November 28th, 4:00 - 11:00 PM / HomeTeam Grill, 1630 W. Main Street
Budget-Friendly Class and Trash
To wrap up the week, I’d recommend a visit to Class and Trash—with locations in Scott's Addition and Ashland. As someone often hired to bring magic into homes (yes, I’ve even decorated a Christmas tree for Mariah Carey using only thrifty finds!), I can easily pinpoint the best spots for adding sparkle on a budget. Class and Trash offers a funky fusion of vintage and modern, allowing you to maximize every dollar while creating something truly magical.
Ken and Lisa Waldrop originally opened Class and Trash in 2004 on Route 1 between Richmond and Ashland. The duo, who previously operated several booths in local antique malls, found their niche when they opened their own store in Ashland and later expanded to an outpost in Scott's Addition. Both locations feature a funky, affordable, and ever-changing lineup of furniture and unique objects worth exploring.
With Small Business Saturday (honored every year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving) just around the corner, there’s no better time to take advantage of the prime shopping opportunities right in our local community.
Vitals:
Class and Trash / 1720 Altamont Ave. / 11088 Washington Hwy. (Route 1)
More From Mike ...
I’m constantly on the move, traveling across the country—and throughout Richmond—bringing creative visions to life. While I’m no longer on social media, you can reach me at mikeharrisonart@gmail.com to connect or see examples of my work.
My mission is to help people transform their spaces as they step into the next chapter of their lives. Whether it’s through a painting, a mural, a complete bedroom redesign, or simply guidance on colors and thrift finds, I’m here to help bring your ideas to life. Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday weekend!
Meet this week's guest editor, Tim Barry! A Richmond native and self-taught musician, Tim is a pioneer of "Folk Rock," celebrated for his authentic and raw sound. Deeply connected to the city's community and natural landscapes, Tim draws inspiration from Richmond’s James River, which he considers an anchor in his life. Whether paddling, fishing, running, or exploring with his family, the river and its surrounding parks continually fuel his creativity and provide a sense of joy and respite.
Surprising to some, Tim is also an avid runner who finds peace and purpose in the rhythm of the trail. Despite his musical success, he cannot read sheet music—a detail that underscores the raw, unfiltered passion behind his craft.
For Tim, Richmond is more than just a home—it’s a close-knit community and a wellspring of inspiration, anchored by the enduring presence of the James River.
Take it away, Tim ...
November Fest: Concerts & Charity Drive at The Camel
November Fest concert tickets have already sold out, but there are other meaningful ways to get involved in the action! All weekend long at The Camel, we will be collecting food donations for Feed More and diaper donations for Little Hands Virginia. You'll find details about both charities in the "More About" section further down in this volume.
Vitals:
November Fest Charity Drive at The Camel / Friday, November 22 - Sunday, November 24 / Bring Donations / The Camel, 1621 West Broad Street
November Fest: James River Park Trail Work
I'm partnering with Keep Virginia Cozy, Friends of James River Park, and James River Park System staff to lead two days of cleanups and trail work during November Fest weekend. Join us in rebuilding a section of trail washed out by erosion. We'll be hauling rocks and filling dirt, so wear sturdy shoes, bring work gloves, and pack water! If you have a bucket or milk crate for carrying rocks, please bring it!
While registration is NOT mandatory, it will help gauge the supplies we will need to provide. Please register here to help us prepare!
Vitals:
James River Park Trail Work / Saturday, November 23, 10:00 am / FREE / W. 22nd St Parking lot of the James River Park System (W. 22nd & Riverside)
November Fest: James River Park River Cleanup
I’m hosting a river clean up on Sunday, November 24 with the same collaborators as Saturday's event; in fact, Keep Virginia Cozy could achieve a mind blowing 1 million pounds of litter removed from our public spaces if we collect enough trash Sunday. So let’s go big! Plus, Hike Hopped Seltzer will be on site providing some cold beverages!
Please visit this link for details, and hit “yes” on the sign up if you are coming. Let’s get off the apps and get outside together!
Vitals:
James River Park - River Clean Up / Sunday, November 24, 11:00 am / FREE / W. 22nd St Parking lot of the James River Park System (W. 22nd & Riverside)
More About the
November Fest Charities
If you are attending any of Tim's Richmond shows this weekend at The Camel, or want to drop by the venue to help out, they'll be collecting food donations for Feed More and diaper donations for Little Hands Virginia. Donations can be dropped off at the door!
Feed More, based in Richmond, is a cornerstone organization in the fight against hunger, providing meals to individuals and families across Central Virginia through its comprehensive network of food banks, kitchens, and delivery programs.
Little Hands Virginia supports children in crisis by providing essential items such as diapers, clothing, and hygiene products.
These organizations create a safety net for vulnerable populations, ensuring children and families in Richmond have access to both nourishment and the essentials needed to thrive.
Meet this week's guest editor, Helen Rai! Helen’s story is one of resilience and community. Born in Nepal, she moved to Richmond, Virginia, in 2005, where her family found strength within the local community. Now, as Program Director at Circles RVA and Director of Client Engagement at ReEstablish Richmond, Helen works to foster shared responsibility and well-being throughout the community.
Passionate about her heritage, she serves on the boards of the Asian American Society of Central Virginia, the Nepali Community of Greater Richmond Virginia, and Kasama Collective, amplifying Asian American and Nepali voices.
Outside of work, Helen and her husband stay busy raising two toddlers and preparing for a month-long journey to Nepal next year.
Take it away, Helen ...
Circles RVA Homecoming & Family Reunion
Join us in celebrating a milestone! This month marks 7 years of Circles RVA, and we’re thrilled to invite you to our Homecoming event on November 16th. Together, we’ll reflect on the incredible work we’ve done, honor the inspiring achievements of our Leaders, and dream of a future where everyone in Richmond has enough money, meaning, and friends to thrive. This is a celebration of our past and a vision for the future, and we’d love for you to be part of it.
Uniting to Amplify Love: A Collective Meditation at The Well Collective
What if, for one hour, tens of thousands of people came together to create an unstoppable wave of love and healing? With special guest Marianne Williamson, hosted by Candace Blair and The Love Tower at Ashah, this isn’t just a meditation—it’s a global gathering, amplifying our collective intention. While this will be a live streamed event accessible around the world, Marianne Williamson and Candace Blair will be with us LIVE and in person at The Well Collective with a limited number of seats available to join!
Join wildlife specialists from the Alliance of Wild Animal Rehabilitators and Educators (AWARE) as they discuss their mission of rehabilitating, providing sanctuary and individualized care for Virginia's native wildlife with the intent to release. They will provide tips on what to do if you find wildlife in need of help.
Vitals:
Wildlife Rescue with AWARE / Saturday, November 16, 11:00 - 12:00 pm / FREE / Libbie Mill, 2100 Libbie Lake E St, Richmond
More About Circles RVA
In a time marked by division, Circles RVA brings people from diverse backgrounds and experiences together to tackle the complex issue of poverty. We believe in the transformative power of social capital—recognizing that who you know is as crucial as what you know in achieving economic stability and success.
Our approach centers around building social networks that empower individuals to not just survive but truly thrive. At the core of our organization is the "Circle Leader": a person striving to move from survival to stability. Each Circle Leader determines their own unique path, setting goals in areas like employment, asset building, debt reduction, credit improvement, homeownership, or entrepreneurship.
Through Circles RVA, we offer a structured foundation backed by proven research highlighting social capital as a key factor in reducing poverty. We are committed to creating opportunities and networks that foster growth, resilience, and long-term economic stability.
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