Giving Thanks: These Are a Few of My Favorite Things 

by Fayeruz Regan 11.2021

Thanksgiving has become a bit complicated. A greater understanding of Indigenous peoples has changed the narrative that we were given in elementary school. We skipped home in pilgrim buckle hats or feathered headbands made of construction paper, assured that the union of both cultures was but a Hallmark moment, free of nuance.

But the thing I do love about Thanksgiving, is that it encourages us to practice gratitude – a key component for true happiness. So, I’m taking stock of some of the people, places and things that I’m most grateful for in Richmond.

Criterion Cinemas at Bowtie

In the 90s, we had to drive up to D.C. just to see Trainspotting, since there were no options in Richmond. Thanks to Criterion Cinemas at Bowtie, we can see independent films and Oscar bait, just like any major city.

Black-owned Brookland Park Boulevard

All too often when a business district that had fallen on hard times starts filling in with new tenants, there’s a fear of gentrification. The rise of Brookland Park goes against type. New Black-owned businesses are popping up, right next door to established Black-owned businesses, and people are taking care of their own—from specialized doctors and hair salons, to the now-famous Ruby Scoops. 

Sad taggers

I’d like to thank the various youth who have repeatedly graced small businesses with “tags.” While your graffiti is the equivalent of a dog’s salute to a fire hydrant, it gives these businesses an urban flair. And yet, it pales in comparison to the joy that my son and I have when we place a Post-It next to your alphabetical urine stain that reads, “Still lives with his parents.”

Ed Trask

It wasn’t VCU’s painting program that catapulted his career, but Richmond’s original hesitancy to give this punk rocker any gallery space. That’s when he made the streets of Richmond his canvas. It’s impossible not to respect the beauty he’s brought to parts of the city that needed it the most. Now, his talent isn’t only featured in permanent collections and art shows around the world, but he’s currently working on a new mural in Bellevue, which I get to pass daily.

The New Yorker subscriber

I’d like to thank the mystery neighbor who leaves fresh stacks of The New Yorker in the library box in front of Morsels. I don’t know who you are, but you’re really giving the people what they want. And while I’m here, thanks to everyone who contributes to these library boxes. Thanks to you, I’ve finally gotten around to Gore Vidal.

The evolving purpose of Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens

It’s always been a beautiful place to take in nature, but Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens has become an influence on the way our city is blossoming, quite literally. They teach composting to help Richmonders live more sustainably and improve our soil. It’s become an educational center on native plants, which reduce the need for fertilizers, pesticides and helps to stave off invasive species. Duron Chavis is their Manager of Community Engagement and has brought social change through urban farming. He’s empowering locals to beautify with greenery and cultivate urban gardens to combat a prevalent issue in underserved communities—food deserts.

Social progress

No one wants to find a dead bunny strategically draped over their “Ridin’ with Biden” sign. Especially when Animal Control confirms that the rabbit wasn’t roadkill. But it was proof that we had struck a nerve. Here on the Northside, I am surrounded by neighbors hell bent on progress. Our yards are peppered with BLM signs, rainbow flags, and banners welcoming neighbors in Arabic and Spanish, pushing back against any fires that were stoked for Islamophobia and white nationalism. From the Fan District to Lakeside, we’ve become a pillar of progress that we took to Monument Avenue last summer, and to the polls on Election Day.

...and of course the food

I’m grateful for the dolmades at Demi's Mediterranean Kitchen, the dry-fried eggplant at Peter Chang, the burgers at Northside Grille, the Hot Cheeto-dusted elote at Soul Taco, the Lamb Vindaloo at Lemon, the croissants at Idle Hands Bakery, and the candy-spotted Rice Krispies treats at Morsel’s.

I highly recommend the above dishes, and every magical place listed before that. I’d love for readers to offer their own recommendations, so I can find even more things to be grateful for. Happy holidays!