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APRIL 2017
A Month full of Celebrations Best way to support Vets in 2017 Gourmet SELECTS Slow cooked Corned Beef & White Chocolate Cheesecake
“Flash-Fiction”
THE GREASS PROBLEM
Cocktails On The House April Rain
Uptown, Downtown, All-Around What’s going on?
Day-cation Williamsburg
A word or two from our Editor
Village News Staff Peter Cousin Editor-in-Chief Peter@InsitePublishing.com 757-301-9617
Welcome to the April Edition of Village News Magazine. Did you kno that the average temperature in Virginia Beach for April is 67? But if you live here, you know it can also snow! The 1st of April is known as April Fool’s Day. As you are aware, it is a light-hearted, comedic day of cheer, practical jokes and hoaxes. (Just Editor make sure you keep your eyes open!) April has quite a few religious in us Co r te Pe holidays: Palm Sunday is April 9th. It commemorates Jesus Christ's last, triumphant entry into Jerusalem before his crucifixion. Passover -- a seven-day, Jewish festival that celebrates the Israelites' fleeing from Egypt about 3,300 years ago -- starts on April 11th. Good Friday is on April 14th, commemorating the day on which Jesus was crucified, followed by Easter Sunday, which falls on April 16th. Easter, as most know, commemorates Jesus' resurrection three days after his crucifixion and death. Tuesday, April 18th, is TAX Day! Tax Day, of course, marks the last day on which to file income taxes in the United States. (It is no longer exactly on April 15th as it used to be.) Finally, Arbor Day (Friday, April 28th) is a celebration of trees and their importance in providing shelter, stabilization for the ground, and beauty to the beholder! There are so many wonderful things to do this month; so, get out there and enjoy life! While you are at it, we certainly hope that you enjoy this month’s read of Village News Magazine! Happy April!
Tara Perrone Lead Graphic Designer Tara@InsitePublishing.com 757-301-9617 Andrea Cousin Production Manager Andrea@InsitePublishing.com 757-301-9617 Nicole Pandeloglou Director of Sales & Marketing Nicole@InsitePublishing.com 757-513-7816 Lynda Brdran Up Town - Downtown Editor Ideas@VillageNewsVA.com Pam Monahan - “Mocha’s Mom” Pammonahan551@yahoo.com 757-301-9887 David Cando IT Department Dcando@Gmail.com 757-497-1620
Please view this publication online www.VillageNewsVA.Com
Featuring In This Issue Golf Tips 5 Focus
Education Education 4 8 10
Fashion 2017 Real Estate-Deeds Computer Mandate
FEATURE FEATURE 5 The best ways to support veterans in 2017 18 Day cation Williamsburg
Neighborhood Neighborhood News News 9 UPTOWN - DOWNTOWN - ALL AROUND 15 Message from Mocha
Culture Culture 6 Gourmet SELECTS - Old World Corned Beef & Dessert 12 Cocktails - April Rain
Humor
13 Golf Humor 12 “Flash-Fiction” THE GRASS PROBLEM
3 VILLAGE NEWS April 2017
Fashion
TRE ND DS S EN
Fashion Trends That Will Be in for 2017
First, it was the editor's cape. You know the look: oh-socasually wearing your coat perched atop your shoulders without your arms slung through the sleeves.
2017
It created a cool breeze for your 'pits, left your arms free to text (at waist-level only— you cannot raise your arms in editors' shoulders), but most importantly, it would instantly get you snapped on the street style circuit. But alas, all good things must come to an end. The restrictive look is fading away in favor of a laid back alternative: the shrugged shoulder. This look can be traced directly to Demna Gvasalia's debut collection for Balenciaga, where he showed the style on several looks. Since then, it has evolved into wearer's choice, thanks to editors and bloggers and fashionistas who DIY the look with bombers, denim jackets, wool coats, and everything in between. This fashion month, it's spread like wildfire.
This is transitional outerwear at its purest, mostly because it literally captures the essence of putting on clothes. It's the pregnant pause of street style, building up the suspense of will they, won't they, wear their jacket? The look is frozen in time, just like a street style photograph. Think about it.
Remember to Act
4 VILLAGE NEWS April 2017
& Stay Classy!
FOCUS
Improve Your Golf Focus – Improve Your Golf Game
Golf Tips
Where and how you choose to place your focus on the golf course can have a measurable effect on the way you play and, ultimately, the score you shoot. Broadly speaking, there are 3 aspects of your focus on the golf course…
Your focus in general, over the course of 18 holes. Your focus leading up to each shot and as you run through your pre-shot routine. Your specific focus over the ball as you make each swing (i.e. your swing thoughts). Focus During A Round Of Golf. Be honest. Do you regularly play a round of golf as though it was two games of 9 holes? In other words, have you ever had a poor start to your round, lost motivation by the 5th or 6th hole only to “start again” at the 10th? Or perhaps it’s the other way round… You have a great front 9, add up your score on the 10th tee, realize how well you’ve played only to fall apart hole-by-hole on the back 9. Splitting the round mentally in half is a natural tendency with most of us that play golf. But I think it’s costing you a lot of shots… We’ve all heard of “staying in the moment” and “focusing on the now”. In golf, that means completely forgetting about previous holes and shots (good or bad) and eliminating any thoughts of holes and potential scores to come. You literally focus on one hole, one shot even, at a time. Sounds great in theory, but it can very difficult in practice… Seek out the advice of your club pro. This game is meant to be enjoyed. When you play better you will enjoy it better.
The best ways to support veterans in 2017 As the new administration and Congress settle into office, many organizations are working hard to put America's 21 million veterans at the top of the nation's "to-do" list. "Veterans share a common thread - regardless of where they served or for how long - they are driven to protect our country and ensure freedom for all citizens, At the same time, they face unique challenges, from health problems related to their military service to translating their job skills into meaningful employment opportunities. It's our nation's duty to support veterans once they return home." The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) reports that 20 percent of veterans who served since 9/11 are estimated to have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Twenty veterans take their lives every day, most of whom never seek help from the VA, and many veterans struggle to find employment, often leading to homelessness.
who served in earlier conflicts, such as World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam, do not receive them. * Educate employers about the value of hiring veterans, particularly those with disabilities. A recent survey of employers released by DAV, Monster.com and Military.com reveals 30 percent of employers worry about hiring veterans with PTSD. However, the vast majority of employers who have hired veterans with disabilities report it's been a positive and productive experience.
To help change the lives of countless veterans and their families, DAV has suggested three priorities for our country's leaders in 2017:
You can support U.S. veterans. You can be a positive voice for veterans and support changes in your communities. Volunteer with your local VA hospital or drive veterans to medical appointments. And, if you own a business or are a hiring manager, be sure your organization considers veterans' unique talents and strengths.
* Ensure veterans have access to quality and timely health care, including effective mental health services.
America made a promise to care for its veterans, those men and women who sacrificed for everyone's freedoms.
* Give needed benefits to the caregivers of veterans. While caregivers for veterans who served after 9/11 receive benefits and resources, caregivers of veterans 5 VILLAGE NEWS April 2017
Gourmet SELECTS Slow-Cooker Old-World Corned Beef and Vegetables 2 1/2 pounds medium new potatoes, (about 8), cut in half 2 cups baby-cut carrots 1 cup frozen small whole onions, thawed 1 corned beef brisket (3 to 3 1/2 pounds) 1/8 teaspoon pepper 1/2 cup water 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon cornstarch 2 tablespoons cold water
Dinner & Dessert Good Enough to Eat!
DIRECTIONS: Mix potatoes, carrots and onions in 4- to 6-quart slow cooker. Thoroughly rinse corned beef; discard seasoning packet. Place beef on vegetables; sprinkle with pepper. Mix 1/2 cup water and the Worcestershire sauce; pour over beef. 3 Cover and cook on low heat setting 8 to 9 hours or until beef and vegetables are tender. 4 Remove beef and vegetables from slow cooker; cover to keep warm. Pour juices from slow cooker into 1-quart saucepan; heat to boiling. Mix cornstarch and cold water until smooth; stir into juices. Cook, stirring constantly, until sauce has thickened. Serve sauce with beef and vegetables.
White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake 1 cup chocolate cookie crumbs Pepperidge Farm Cookies ark Chocolate 3 tablespoons white sugar 1/4 cup butter, melted 1 (10 ounce) package frozen raspberries 2 tablespoons white sugar 2 teaspoons cornstarch 1/2 cup water 2 cups white chocolate chips 1/2 cup half-and-half cream 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup white sugar 3 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract In a medium bowl, mix together cookie crumbs, 3 tablespoons sugar, and melted butter. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9 inch springform pan. In a saucepan, combine raspberries, 2 tablespoons sugar, cornstarch, and water. Bring to boil, and continue boiling 5 minutes, or until sauce is thick. Strain sauce through a mesh strainer to remove seeds. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). In a metal bowl over a pan of simmering water, melt white chocolate chips with half-and-half, stirring occasionally until smooth. In a large bowl, mix together cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time. Blend in vanilla and melted white chocolate. Pour half of batter over crust. Spoon 3 tablespoons raspberry sauce over batter. Pour remaining cheesecake batter into pan, and again spoon 3 tablespoons raspberry sauce over the top. Swirl batter with the tip of a knife to create a marbled effect. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until filling is set. Cool, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 8 hours before removing from pan. Serve with remaining raspberry sauce.
Drop us an email and let us know what you think. Gourmet@VillageNewsVA.com 6
VILLAGE NEWS April 2017
You should enjoy the food you eat. Here, Village News shows you how.
5 tips to protect your devices from c y b e r c r i m e Your smartphone, your tablet, your computer - they are some of your most important and most used possessions. They are the daily tools you use for research, to connect with others and make purchases. You take them everywhere and fill them with your important, personal information. And all of that makes them the perfect targets for a cyberattack. The number of cybercrime incidents in the United States grows each year, and as Americans move into an increasingly digital society - thanks to smart phones, smart cars and smart in-home technologies - cybercrime is expected to grow in frequency again in 2017. Protecting yourself, your family and the vital nformation on your devices means increasing your focus on your own cybersecurity. That starts with these five tips. ⌧ Recognize you're not immune. Cyberattacks increase in frequency and severity every year, so don't make the mistake of believing it can't happen to you. "It's important to protect yourself by taking personal responsibility for your data; we can't expect banks or other institutions to do it for us," said Jim Karagiannes, Ph.D., professor in DeVry University's College of Engineering & Information Services. "We lock our doors and take other security measures to protect our home and car. We need to also take precautions with our personal security and information." ⌧ Don't store your username, password or credit card information with a website. The convenience makes it tempting, but websites are a popular target for cybercriminals because a successful hack gives them access to hundreds or thousands of files, including yours. Even storing this information on your own computer can expose it in a cyberattack, and if your credit card information is captured, criminals can use it to gather your social security number. That exposes you to identify theft. Keep this information off your devices and, instead, create complex passwords and write down all of
your usernames and passwords on a piece of paper that you keep in a safe place, such as a deposit box. ⌧ Use only a credit card, not a debit card, when making online purchases. Using your credit card instead of your debit card allows you to keep better track of the purchases you have made. It also limits the effects of any possible theft to just the one card instead of several. If you have no choice but to use a debit card for an online purchase, do not use your pin number online. ⌧ If it feels like a trick, it probably is. Cybercriminals often engage in "social engineering" or other nonelectronic methods to try and trick you into surrendering your data. If you get a phone call about a banking or credit card issue or if your computer tells you to call a number because it just caught a virus, be cautious. Do not divulge any personal history or credit card details. Hang up or ignore the computer-generated notices and call the customer service number of the institution's website with any questions. ⌧ Replace your existing credit cards with chip cards as soon as possible. Chip cards are becoming the new normal these days, and if your current credit card does not have a silver square chip on its front, consider replacing it quickly. Popularized in Europe, chip cards possess the necessary encrypted information to eliminate delays in the transaction process. Doing so closes the window criminals need to steal your personal information, thus protecting you from identity theft. You have no intention of abandoning your devices, of course, so protect them. Following the tips above will help better secure your technology and personal information from the threats of cybercrime so you can enjoy your devices with greater peace of mind.
7 VILLAGE NEWS April 2017
One Good Deed Deserves Another The deed which is the written instrument by which a property owner as “grantor” conveys and transfers to a “grantee” an ownership interest in real property. There are many types of deeds. The major difference between them is the type of covenant made by the grantor. Below is a general description of a few of the most common types of deeds. General warranty deed- A warranty deed is the most common type of deed used in most purchase and sale transactions and gives the highest level of protection to the buyer. It should contain a phase specified by state law such as the phrase “conveys and warrants”. These words, called operative words of conveyance, carry with them several warranties which the grantor is making to the grantee. The grantor warrants that the grantor is the lawful owner of the property and has the right to convey the property, that the property is free from all encumbrances or liens, and that the grantor will defend the grantee from any and all claims made by third parties. Special (or Limited) Warranty Deed- A special warranty deed limits the liability of the grantor by warranting only what the deed explicitly states. The grantor provides very few warranties. The grantor only warrants or guarantees the title against defects arising during the period of his or her tenure or ownership of the property and not against defects existing before that time. This type of deed is used most commonly by trustees, executors, a spouse conveying title as part of a divorce decree, or foreclosure sales. Quit claim deed- The quitclaim deed transfers
8 VILLAGE NEWS April 2017
only whatever right, title and interest the grantor had in the property at the time of the execution of the deed and in effect the grantor forever quits whatever claim he or she had, if in fact any existed. Grantors do not warrant title or possession. This type of deed is used most often between family members such as when one heir is buying out the other. Gift Deed- When using a gift deed to convey a piece of real estate, there cannot be any monetary compensation involved. The only consideration for this kind of deed is love and affection. This kind of deed is commonly used by parents who want to give a piece of real estate to their children. Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure- A deed to a lender given by an owner conveying mortgaged property in which the mortgage is in default. It is an alternative to foreclosure. The deed is unique in that it signifies the end of one ownership and the beginning of another. In order for a deed to be valid it must contain a grantor, a grantee, consideration, words of conveyance, legal description, signature, and delivery. Laws regarding deeds can vary from state to state so please make sure that you understand the type of deed that is conveying whenever you are involved in any real estate transaction. If you have any questions or concerns about deeds, I will be happy to refer you to an experienced real estate attorney to counsel you.
Karen Adcock
REALTOR®, licensed in Virginia Keller Williams Realty Town Center One Columbus Center, Suite 1100 Virginia Beach, Va 23462 Direct: 757-632-3237 23 Years Experience KarenAdcock@KW.com SoldByKarenAdcock.com
All-Around By Lynda Badran, Contributing Editor
T. S. Eliot, in his poem “The Wasteland,” said “April is the cruelest month.” Do you suppose he had some premonition about Tax Day? Of course the month starts off with April Fools day; but we also have Arbor Day on April 5th; and April 22nd is Earth Day. Easter in on April 16th. And speaking of taxes, they are generally due on April 15th which this year is a Saturday. The tax deadline is always postponed when it falls on a weekend or legal holiday. April 16th is also on the weekend, so it’s clearly not taking on the mantle of Tax Day. But there’s another wrinkle: This day is usually celebrated as Emancipation Day in Washington, D.C., marking President Lincoln’s April 16, 1862, signing of a law freeing slaves there. April 17th, a Monday, is when Emancipation Day in Washington is being legally celebrated in 2017. Under the tax code, legal holidays in the nation’s capital affect the tax-filing deadline across the nation. So taxes are due on April 18th. But given our less than satisfactory mail system, mail your taxes early. Enough of depressing things. Well, maybe not. In the continuing (you might have thought it would be over by now) controversy over Light Rail, there are new issues. In the recent election, 57% of Beach residents indicated that they did not want to pursue Light Rail extensions into the city. But did you know that in 2015, the Beach implemented a 1.8 cent additional real estate tax (and added $5.00 to your car registration fee) to fund Light Rail? That fund has now grown to over $30M. After the November election, Councilman John Moss moved to immediately repeal these taxes. But the majority of the City Council wants to wait until budget time to make that decision. Of course, why would they give us back our money – or at least stop collecting it for a dead project? In case you were wondering, the old Kmart building on General Booth Boulevard will become a One Life Fitness and a Big Lots store.
those yet) situated at the corner of Nimmo Parkway and General Booth Boulevard. The new site will be home to the Hickman Place development which will include the historic Hickman House that will be moved to the northwest corner of the site and will become a coffee shop or similar business. Hickman House was built around 1832 and served as an inn for travelers. Good news - Virginia Beach is the fourth safest city to raise a family in the U.S., according to www.goodcall.com. The website crunches data to help people make informed decisions about careers, money and moving. Beating us out were Henderson, Nev.; Plano, Texas; and Boston, Ma.. Analysts considered crime rate, vehicle safety, air quality and educational attainment in their survey. Did you ever wonder what the “sell by” labels on food products are trying to tell us? Or what about “expires on” and “best if used by”? Well, to make things clearer, the Food Marketing Institute and the Grocery Manufacturers Association have announced that they will use only two labels: “use by” and “best if used by.” I understand “use by”; but what about “best if used by”? Does that mean you can eat or drink it after that date? And if that’s okay, for how long? I guess there is more work to be done.
Do you have a favorite place or information you would like to share with the Village News readers? If so, please send it to me, Lynda Badran, at Ideas@VillageNewsVA.Com. I’ll do my best to include it in the next issue.
And we might possibly be overrun with grocery stores before long. German grocer Lidl has started building a store about a half mile from the old Kmart site; and developers are making room for a 46,000 square foot grocery store (perhaps a Publix – we don’t have one of 9 VILLAGE NEWS April 2017
The Computer Mandate www.ExecTechVA.net
Dear Village News Readers, April means Mother’s Day (among lots of other things to do). All of us at Executive Technology want to give a loving shout out to all the moms! We hope you enjoy your day.
If you some odd chance the family doesn’t do anything for your computer needs on this special day call me personally. If nothing else we’ll get your computer cleaned out and operating in the most optimum way. We’ll clean the inside and check everything from screen to keyboard.
Maybe, your family out of love and respect will buy you that new computer you’ve had your eye on all year. If that should happen, call us immediately at Executive Technology and let us setup everything you need to get started.
In any case “mom” we wish you the happiest of days. We love our moms and know without them there could be no “us.” Thanks for everything you do all year round!
In the meantime, if you shouldn’t be so lucky as to get that new computer, call us anyway. We’ll upgrade the unit you currently use with memory, certificates and the latest software. You won’t know much of a difference one that’s done from a brand new unit.
I always say: We're always available to Village News readers for a quick analysis of your equipment. Just give us a call at 497-1620. Remember our motto: David “Can-Do!”
2017 Combo Associate Memberships ALL of 2017 for the low price of $299 or $29 per month* (Limited Combo Associate $199 year/$19 month*) Includes Heron Ridge, VB Nat’l & Riverfront Golf Courses Call For Details! (757)426-3800 10 VILLAGE NEWS April 2017
Breathing Matters: The Importance of Understanding COPD Breathe in. Breathe out. Just take a moment to inhale and exhale. We too often take breathing for granted, but what if taking a breath was a challenge? If you're someone living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the third leading cause of death in the United States (US), or know someone living with this chronic respiratory disease, breathing challenges may impact how you live your life. In an effort to celebrate life and the important role that breathing plays within it, AstraZeneca has partnered with New York Citybased filmmaker Erlendur Sveinsson to produce Ode to Breathing. A documentary-style short film that strings together brief vignettes, providing a moving look at people doing an ordinary yet profound thing: breathing.
2. Remember, COPD in many cases is preventable. Risk factors to be aware of may include smoking tobacco (including second-hand or passive exposure); indoor air pollution (such as solid fuel used for cooking and heating); outdoor air pollution; occupational dusts and chemicals (vapors, irritants and fumes)
People living with COPD or their caregivers can consider the following tips when thinking about respiratory health. Keep an eye on symptom changes. Early COPD detection can impact disease management, which makes it important to monitor for changes in your breathing and recognize symptoms such as shortness of breath while performing daily activities, chronic cough, fatigue and wheezing.
3. Stay inspired and educated. Visit Ode to Breathing at www.odetobreathing.com and watch the inspirational video and access available helpful resources for COPD patients. 4. Don't be afraid to speak with your doctor. If you think you or a loved one may be experiencing COPD symptoms, speak to a healthcare provider to determine what options are available to help you breathe easier to help you enjoy life's simple moments. 11 VILLAGE NEWS April 2017
“Flash-Fiction” THE GRASS PROBLEM By Donna Levy
THIS IS NOT A
SUGGESTION
Bonnie conscientiously watered her lawn every day during the heat spell. Her gardener told her between the shade from the large sun-blocking trees and her over-watering, she had killed the grass and created a swamp. “Can you fix it?” He shook his head and told her to call a landscaper. Then came a week of torrential rains. Her yard flooded. At the end of the deluge, Bonnie remembered the sprinkler system still turned on automatically twice a day. Her bad memory had bitten her again. Gazing through the bay window, she could have sworn she saw a long black snake swimming in her flooded yard. “Oh, no! It really was a swamp!” Nightmares about reptilian creatures plagued her sleep. Waking up from another nightmare with her heart pounding, she dialed 911. “Come get me! The sea level’s rising and alligators are migrating up to us in Virginia! If you don’t rescue me, I’m doomed! What? Yes, I know I call every night, but . . . .” She slammed the phone down and sobbed until the sun rose on a beautiful, clear day. Watching the water ebb and drain into the sewers, she vowed to hire a landscaper.
Innovative Treatment Quashes Hunger, Helps Weight Loss Like so many Americans, Cheryl Denby struggled with countless diets but that changed in 2015 when she underwent bariatric arterial embolization (BAE), an investigational treatment., I weighed nearly 300 pounds, said Denby. One year later, I weigh close to 225 pounds and feel more confident. A minimally invasive treatment performed by interventional radiologists, BAE targets production of the hunger hormone ghrelin in the stomach. Denby is one of 20 people in the BEAT Obesity trial. One month after treatment, average excess weight loss was about 9 percent. One year after treatment, excess weight loss averaged 12.6 percent. This suggests BAE appears to be effective in the long term and has potential to touch many lives, said Clifford Weiss, M.D., of Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Weiss is presenting this research at the Society of Interventional Radiology's 2017 Annual Scientific Meeting.To learn more about BAE, visit www.sirweb.org
12 VILLAGE NEWS April 2017
Listed and Sold
That’s what YOU want to hear!
When it comes to selling condos and homes in West Neck, NO ONE has sold more than
SOLD
3435 Winding Trail Circle
Karen Adcock REALTOR
REALTOR®
As a who has participated in more than 400 sales in West Neck, Karen is the community’s #1 REALTOR® in condo and single family home sales! When it comes time to sell or buy, be sure to contact Karen, one of... “The BEST in the Business!”
West Neck
Karen Adcock REALTOR, licensed in Virginia Keller Williams Realty Town Center ® One Columbus Center, Suite 1100 Virginia Beach, Va 23462 23 Years Experience KarenAdcock@KW.com
Direct: 757-632-3237 www.SoldByKarenAdcock.com
It’s not about the score... nooo... It’s about how you look! 13 VILLAGE NEWS April 2017
C O C K TA I L S
On The House April Rain Cocktail INGREDIENTS 2 ounces vodka 1/2 ounce lime juice 1/2 ounce dry vermouth Lime peel for garnish
METHOD Pour the ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice cubes. Shake well. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with the lime peel.
The latest advancements in college education are happening digitally The face of education in the United States is changing. Many of today's universities are embracing digital technology to deliver instruction in ways not available to previous generations. We have seen the digital instruction methods evolve from the use of learning aides such as computers, digital projectors and DVD players to online learning, which allows students the flexibility to tackle their coursework at a time and pace that works best for them. An innovative classroom format can instill important virtual collaboration skills and encourage interaction with tools like remote wireless content sharing and two-way whiteboard displays, as are found in DeVry University's extended classrooms. Video-connected classrooms are generally equipped with voice-activated motion cameras, facial-recognition software, high-definition wide-screen monitors - complete with picture-inpicture views, desktop cameras and interactive two-way touch-screen whiteboards. This 14 VILLAGE NEWS April 2017
technology is designed to help students learn and interact with their fellow classmates no matter where they are taking the class. DeVry also recently launched its new video connected classroom technology that seamlessly links 23 DeVry campus locations for simultaneous instruction - depending on the program, course. The connected classroom technology allows students to have real-time visual interaction with faculty and fellow classmates. These high-tech classrooms exemplify our investment in academic experiences that are collaborative yet personalized, with student engagement at the core."
Tips for hosting a better brunch Love the idea of hosting a brunch, but begin to regret it the moment you're toiling over a pan of bacon grease while your friends are chatting over mimosas? You're not alone. Whether you're planning a simple brunch for a small group or an Easter brunch to wow a crowd, these simple tips and ideas are guaranteed to get you out of the kitchen and into the action. Prepare a game plan. Developing a checklist will prevent you from feeling overwhelmed with to-do's. Once you know how many people will be attending the brunch, start planning the menu, gather recipes and make a grocery list. Figure out how to serve the food, decide where to put the drinks, gather extra seating and put all the plates, cups, cutlery and napkins on the table. Also, don't forget the mugs or cocktail glasses if you plan to serve coffee or mimosas. While it might seem obvious, these little details can easily be overlooked. Create a menu full of make-ahead recipes. From drinks to dessert, This is my follow up from last month. I am now in the 4th week of my physical therapy to combat arthritis. Yes, dogs get it too! I have arthritis in my hips, knees, and shoulders. The humans bought me a “Help Em Up� harness. This cool harness has two handles on it to help them get me up a dog ramp and into the cargo area of the SUV, for the ride to the rehab place on my dog bed. My appointments last about an hour. I get lots of treats there. All I have to do is what they tell me. Sometimes I have laser therapy. This feels pretty good and is nice and warm. Sometimes I fall asleep. I try not to as I would hate to miss a treat! Sometimes I have acupuncture. This is also relaxing even though I saw that they are putting tiny needles into me! The parents and the vet do a lot of talking during this, so sometimes I have to remind them that this is about me and where are the
make sure your menu allows you to spend more times with friends and family and less time in the kitchen. Sure, everyone loves a good omelet, but you're not a short order cook. Instead, opt for low-maintenance recipes that can be prepared the night before and popped in the oven the next morning. Ditch the pile of dirty dishes in favor of disposable tableware. All the dishes can be tossed once people are done eating, keeping post-brunch cleanup to a minimum. Set the table in style. Make sure your brunch is as stylish as it is tasty.
treats?!! My favorite thing is the underwater treadmill though. I have always just loved water and swimming. I was quite excited the first time I did this. But there was not enough water for swimming‌ gosh darn it! But I got to walk through chest deep water in a box like thing so that was good!!! And the treats just kept on coming! I am worn out when we leave though. My dog bed looks nice and soft and welcoming when I get into the SUV for the ride home. Thanks, Mom and Dad! You take great care of me! WOOF!
Message from Mocha and Frodo 15 VILLAGE NEWS April 2017
16 VILLAGE NEWS April 2017
Security in an insecure world The year 2016 was devastating for some safe deposit box holders. In New York, thieves cut holes in the roofs of three banks and brazenly emptied hundreds of safe deposit boxes, leaving the victims' pillaged boxes on the roof and strewn around the vault. A stealthier thief in Florida picked safe deposit boxes in several banks, emptying the contents without damaging the box or leaving any visible sign of the theft. Still the safest: Despite these occurrences, law enforcement agencies, FEMA, the American Red Cross and AARP all recommend safe deposit boxes to store valuable items, heirlooms and documents. A safe deposit box in a vault is superior to home storage even with a safe. Why? Because a residence is almost 20 times more likely to be robbed than a safe deposit box in a bank. Required step: Today, most people who rent a safe deposit box assume the bank or a federal agency insures the contents. This is not true, and unfortunately, too many people learn this the hard way. A standard homeowners policy provides limited coverage for some items in a box, but excludes losses from flood and other risks. They may also have a high deductible.
and important papers such as wills, titles, deeds, photos and digital backups, is now available. There is no deductible, and risks such as terrorist attacks, hurricanes and earthquakes are covered. And because you do not need to identify what is stored inside the box to obtain coverage, you can maintain your privacy. Protect yourself: Clearly, there are events that no vault or safe deposit box can protect against. However, there are steps you should take. Safe Deposit Box Insurance, LLC (SDBIC), the leader in protecting valuable assets in secure boxes, has developed a secure storage quiz on secure storage options. So, despite there being some high-profile break-ins, a safe deposit box is still the best place to store your documents, family heirlooms and other valuables. But because nothing is 100 percent foolproof, it's important to do your research, select the right bank and insure the contents of your box through SDBIC.
Specialty insurance designed to cover and protect everything inside of a safe deposit box - including cash, gold
Visit your local Mercedes-Benz dealer for a test drive today! 17 VILLAGE NEWS April 2017
By Peter Cousin - Editor This month our “Daycation” takes us to Williamsburg. Picture if you will: April in Virginia Beach. We get an early start for Williamsburg for a day in the sun, shopping, relaxing, and getting away from it all, without taking a day to get away from it all. There are so many things to do or if we choose, do nothing at all with our special someone. Here’s some interesting statistics that many in Virginia Beach do not know about Williamsburg... 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Virginia Beach to Williamsburg by car is 60 miles. A 1 hour and 10 minute drive (same time it takes to watch an hour of Suites or Blue Bloods. The National average of miles per gallon (MPG) is 24. Virginia Beach to Williamsburg and back is 5 gallons. Virginia’s average gas price per gallon is $2.35. Cost of a round trip in gas is $11.75. Cost of a Virginia Beach Mexican dinner without a coke is $11.99. The average weather in Williamsburg in April makes for a comfortable day at 72.
Colonial Williamsburg At a Glance When you visit the world's largest living history museum, you become part of one of the greatest stories ever told. This is the dawn of America. Our 18th-century city is alive where the dreamers with a bold vision quite literally changed the world. You'll meet artisans and craftsmen (and women), talk with America’s founding generation whose diversity, aspirations, and struggles shaped who we are today. 18th-century artifacts take center stage at the Art Museums, many of which were discovered by archaeologists just blocks away. This isn't just history. This is where history comes alive. Enjoy a leisurely ride through the Revolutionary City by horse-drawn carriage. Surround yourself with the sights and sounds of our unique city, far removed from the bustle of modern-day streets. Celebrate an anniversary in 18th-century style or enjoy a ride with your family. With a horse-drawn carriage ride, it’s truly the most authentic way to take it all in—or sit back, relax, and let it all go. Join us for an evening of colonial dance, "a most charming entertainment" very much enjoyed by colonial Virginians. Virginians hosted public and private balls and assemblies to be sociable, to celebrate an occasion, or just for fun. Participation is encouraged! This is your chance to enlist in the Continental Army. As a new recruit, see what it was like to be a soldier in the 18th century. Learn how soldiers lived, fought, and survived an eight-year ordeal to become free and independent. Raise your hand to affirm your allegiance to the 13 United States of America, and your journey will begin. This event is held outdoors in all weather conditions. Due to safety issues, everyone must be an active participant. And don’t forget about Busch Gardens. Just a few short miles away. Spend a day in the old country and ride to your heart’s content. This is one of the most exciting destinations in the country.
18 VILLAGE NEWS April 2017
Happy Easter from Mr. & Mrs. Bunny