Experience the thrill of Top Gun: Maverick in Concert with the Virginia Symphony Orchestra June 13 at Chrysler Hall
Presented by Virginia Arts Festival as part of their 2026 spring season, Top Gun: Maverick in Concert is an exhilarating new offering for orchestras that features an Original Music Score by Harold Faltermeyer, Lady Gaga and Hans Zimmer. Score Produced by Lorne Balfe. The blockbuster hit film was nominated for six Academy Awards® including Best Picture and Best Original Song, winning Best Sound.
Enjoy our own Virginia Symphony Orchestra performing the score live on stage as the
film plays, conducted by Morihiko Nakahara. A native of Kagoshima, Japan, Morihiko Nakahara has served as Music Director of the South Carolina Philharmonic since 2008. Nakahara remains active as a guest conductor during the 2025-2026 season
After more than 30 years of service as one of the Navy’s top aviators, Pete “Maverick” Mitchell (Tom Cruise) is where he belongs, pushing the envelope as a courageous test pilot and dodging the advancement in rank that would ground him. When he finds himself training a detachment of TOPGUN graduates for a specialized mission the likes of which no living pilot has ever seen, Maverick encounters Lt. Bradley Bradshaw (Miles Teller), call sign: “Rooster,” the son of Maverick’s late friend and Radar Intercept Officer Lt. Nick Bradshaw, aka “Goose.”
Facing an uncertain future and confronting the ghosts of his past, Maverick is drawn into a confrontation with his own deepest fears, culminating in a mission that demands the ultimate sacrifice from those who will be chosen to fly it. Tickets are on sale now at vafest.org. Military (active duty, retired, veterans) and student discounts available.
Watch the trailer online at https://youtu. be/nGI5DL3d8VU. A Royal Albert Hall production with thanks to esk film.
Virginia Championship Wrestling kicks off the summer with Norfolk event Sat., June 6 ahead of the 19th annual Liberty Lottery in July. Page 3
Fins on the Fantail returns to the Battleship Wisconsin for an iconic summer night
Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. — One of Nauticus’ most anticipated summer traditions is back. Fins on the Fantail returns on Saturday, June 13, 2026, inviting guests to step aboard the historic Battleship Wisconsin for an unforgettable evening of live music, waterfront views, and laid-back coastal vibes.
Set against the backdrop of the Elizabeth River, this 21+ event transforms the fantail of the Battleship into a lively summer escape. Guests will enjoy a high-energy performance by the Tiki Bar Band, playing crowd-favorite hits inspired by Jimmy Buffett and more, along with themed drinks, casual bites, and interactive games throughout the evening.
“Fins on the Fantail captures everything people love about summer in Norfolk—great music, great company, and an iconic setting you can’t find anywhere else,” said Rehn West Saunders, Deputy Director of External Affairs and Advancement at Nauticus. “Even more importantly, every ticket supports our mission, helping expand access to maritime education and sailing opportunities for local youth.”
Event details
Date: Saturday, June 13, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM — 9:00 PM
VIP Entry: 5:30 PM
Location: Battleship Wisconsin at Nauticus
One Waterside Drive, Norfolk, VA
This 21+ event requires valid ID upon entry.
Ticket information
VIP Admission: $65
Includes early entry at 5:30 PM and two complimentary drink tickets
General Admission: $35
8-Person VIP Table: $800
Includes VIP entry and two drink tickets per guest
Please note: Ticket prices increase by $10 on the day of the event.
Know before you go
Alcoholic beverages will be available for sale to patrons with ID proof of age of 21 and older. Sales will end at 8pm. Staff
reserves the right to deny the sale of alcoholic beverages to any patron.
Show is Rain or Shine; more details to follow in case of inclement weather.
Smoking is prohibited at Nauticus; this includes but is not limited to cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vapes, etc.
This is a cashless event. No cash will be accepted.
APPROVED BAGS
Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC that do not exceed 16 x 16 x 8 inches.
Diaper Bags and Medical Bags are permitted, subject to search by security.
Small non-clear clutch bags measuring 5” x 7” x 3/4” or smaller, with or without a
handle or strap, can be taken into the event.
NOT APPROVED BAGS
Backpacks, purses, grocery bags, camera bags, mesh bags, drawstring bags, duffle bags, patterned tote bags
PROHIBITED ITEMS
Beach chairs/lawn chairs / personal chairs
Illegal weapons
Outside food, beverages, and coolers (one sealed water bottle per person is permitted)
Animals (service animals allowed on site under the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) that comply with additional identification requirements of Virginia Law)
Laser pointers/pens
Beach balls
Umbrellas
All proceeds from Fins on the Fantail directly benefit Sail Nauticus, the organization’s transformational sailing program that provides hands-on maritime education and life-changing experiences for Title I students in Norfolk Public Schools. From learning to sail to building confidence on the water, Sail Nauticus equips young people with skills that extend far beyond the shoreline.
For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit Nauticus.org/fins-on-the-fantail/.
Press Release
(CREDIT: VIRGINIA ARTS FESTIVAL)
Battleship Wisconsin. (PHOTO
Glen Powell plays “Hangman” in Top Gun: Maverick from Paramount Pictures, Skydance and Jerry Bruckheimer Films.
(PHOTO CREDIT: VIRGINIA ARTS FESTIVAL)
The Greatest Show On Earth®, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Circus returns to the Norfolk Scope Arena June 4th-7th, Lauren Irving, who plays Aria tells us about it
Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls of all ages, rejoice! The Greatest Show On Earth®, the all‑new Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Circus is back for its annual return to the Norfolk Scope Arena June 4th 7th. It is a nonstop celebration, a fusion of: DJ‑driven music, laughter, jaw‑dropping acrobatics, and edge‑of‑your‑seat stunts of the biggest, boldest, most joy‑sparking acts from around the world coming together to create forever memories for you and your family.
Included in the admission is a pre show celebration that kicks off 30 minutes before showtime with a high energy, laugh out loud, joy filled experience by the all new Ringling Hype Crew filled with dancing, playful games, big laughs, and audience interactions. For more info, go to https://www.seven venues.com/events/detail/ringling
Yiorgo: With us today is singer dancer Lauren Irving who plays the role of Aria in Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus (RBBBC). Why should people come to see Ringling? What will they see here and experience?
Lauren Irving: Ringling is not only an American tradition that’s been around for over 150 years. But it is something that embodies what I do believe is the power of art and enter tainment and wonder for the people. There is something so basic about, that goes back centuries of people loving the feeling of being loud, inspired and how important it is for us to have those moments in our life because that’s what propels us, I believe, to go forward and create, invent and to continue to plant seeds and bear fruit for more generations to come. And it’s also important for us to have a moment where we can escape the worries of life and where we can laugh again and smile again and share moments with our family. I think that especially now in this time, with so much technology, people may be in the same room, but they’re not together because they’re in their world, on their phone or their tablet, or on their computer. And to see people sitting in the audience together, holding each other, laughing together, seeing their children, jump up and dance like they’ve never seen or even see their parents even share the same emotion of suspense, it’s something that, I believe we just need to continue to experi ence and share with each other. Ringling does just that so come out to see live enter tainment and just appreciate the fact that, you know, all of us are sharing this huge planet Earth together and the uniqueness and the diversity of acts, the diversity of people that we have, of 65 performers from 13 different countries. Watching all of us work together, and share the stage and share a platform with each other, noticing the beauty and the differ ences that we all have.
Y: Of course, the show now is very different
from the past. Can you talk a little bit about that? How different is this show from, say, 10 years ago?
LI: We are focusing on human ability now. Ringling was known to have animals before, but we’ve moved away from that. We’re using a lot more technology. But if you also were to take the Ringling from 2016, and compare that to the Ringling of, let’s say, 1916, think about how different that is. I know that change can be very surprising and unsettling. And it’s a huge parallel. I do believe in the importance of change so that you can evolve and you can grow. We have the traditional trapeze act, but this time it’s elevated with a crisscross trapeze with two catchers. So it’s not just crisscross. We have them thrown and catching simulta neously in both directions. So, it’s a specta cle that’s just not been done before that you truly have to see to believe. And especially
her parents, but she spent time with people from all over the world. She understands this place and to watch her come out and we get to announce her name and just to think of the legacy she’s continuing on is such a beauti ful thing to see and be a part of. I think of the brand itself being over 150 years old. Right, right now we’re on the 148th edition.
We also have a very unique collaboration, an entire act with Maddox Batson, who is an actual pop country music artist who also tours and has so many fans. He is such a talent that we have an entire act devoted to his country music. It is a fun matchup that everyone really enjoys.
Y: Let’s talk about your character Aria. What is her function or purpose in Ringling?
LI: Yes, so, Aria is the voice of Ringling. She is the one that you hear first. Usually you start out with a production number with everyone and then there’s a song. She kind of
with the music and the lights. Again, there’s that technology, all of those things you don’t really think of playing such an important role coming together to enhance the acts.
We have two Wheels of Destiny, going in a clockwise and counter clockwise direction at the same time. They are jumping from wheel to wheel and I say this genuinely, they scare everyone because of how much they’re flip ping, jumping, rope, jumping from one wheel to another, you think, they’re going to fall, and then the last minute, they get their grip, they’re flying with one arm, it’s incredible. I always think of Skyler Miser, who is our human rocket. And it’s so special to watch her because her parents were both the human rockets for Ringling. And she quite literally has grown up in this environment and has watched not only
the bookend, the beginning and the end, and then there’s moments in between, where she’ll sing and be a part of some of the acts. She also hosts, she is a warm presence. She is a nurtur ing presence, but she’s also a very command ing and captivating presence. I am often asked, are you the Ringmas ter? We now have what we call show guides. So instead of having one Ringmaster, we’ve been having show guides that work together to embody what the role of a Ringmaster does. So, for me, I do sing, I host, I announce, but we also, in this edition, for example, there’s 3 of us hosts. So I’m the vocalist. We also have for the first time a live DJ, played by Lucky Malazzi, which has been such a fun thrill. And
See CIRCUS on Page A5
The Greatest Show On Earth®, the all-new Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Circus is back for its annual return to the Norfolk Scope Arena June 4th-7th. (Photo Credit: Ringling Bros. AND BARNUM & BAILEY® CIRCUS/GEORITTENMYER)
Interview By Yiorgo
The Greatest Show On Earth®, the all-new Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Circus is back for its annual return to the Norfolk Scope Arena June 4th-7th. Lauren Irving plays the role of Aria. (PHOTO CREDIT: RINGLING BROS. AND BARNUM & BAILEY® CIRCUS)
Virginia Championship Wrestling kicks off summer with Norfolk event
By Sam Saunders
Virginia Championship Wrestling (VCW) returns to the Norfolk Masonic Temple on Saturday, June 6 ahead of the 19th annual Liberty Lottery in July. Tickets are available online at SimpleTix.com. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with bell time at 7:30 p.m. The Norfolk Masonic Temple is located at 7001 Granby St, Norfolk, VA 23505.
The main event of VCW’s June 6 event is a Virginia Heavyweight Championship defense by Rex Lawless against LDJ. Lawless won the Virginia Heavyweight Championship at the 2025 Liberty Lottery in a three-way match against Devantes and The Boar. Lawless has successfully defended the championship countless times since then, including a Last Man Standing match victory over Ken Dixon in April.
Lawless has never defended his title against LDJ, however. LDJ recently put himself into heavyweight title contention by defeating former Virginia Heavyweight Champion Joseph Keys in a singles match.
The VCW Tag Team Championship will also be defended on June 6 when The Boar and Devantes challenge “Greek God” Papadon and Brandon Scott. Papadon, the 2025 Liberty Lottery winner, defeated Scott in a match in March that gave him and his manager, Mr. George Pantas full control of Scott’s VCW contract. Papadon then forced Scott to join forces with him in a tag team title match, winning the titles in April.
Devantes and The Boar have wrestled each other several times in VCW, including multiple Virginia Heavyweight Championship main event matches. Their tag title match of June 6 will be their first time teaming together, though. With Devantes and The Boar’s prior history as rivals, combined with Scott’s contractual obligation to team with Papadon, both teams seem to be entering the VCW Tag Team Championship match with rocky foundations.
Papadon and Scott’s tag title win in April ended the first reign of Nice & Smooth. “Too Nice” Trace Parker and “Smooth” Tom Mitchell successfully defended their titles for nearly a year after first winning them at the 2025 Liberty Lottery in July. On June 6, Nice & Smooth have the opportunity to regain momentum in a tag team match against Burkharts.
A third tag team match is scheduled for Norfolk when the Golden Pinky Society returns to the ring against The Helm. Benjamin Banks and “Diamond” Victor Griff have not teamed together in VCW for over half a year since being attacked by F.K.A.H.S. at Tidings of Destruction in December. Before the Pinkies can get revenge on F.K.A.H.S. in a sanctioned match, Director of Operations Jerry Stephanitsis has forced them to first wrestle The Helm, who have countlessly shown their willingness to break the rules in an attempt to win.
In Feb., Tim Loulies tried to recruit The Boar as a client. When The Boar refused, Loulies revealed his partnership with Tiberius Asante, who laid out the former Virginia Heavyweight Champion with ease. Asante looks to demonstrate his dominance again when he meets former VCW Tag Team Champion Alex Divine in a singles match.
Myron Malone and VCW Liberty Champion Commander King have wrestled several times since King captured his title in Dec. 2024. Their last encounter saw King steal a win in a match that banned Malone from challenging for King’s Liberty Championship again. However, a Liberty Lottery win would override Malone’s aforementioned ban. The titular match of Liberty Lottery is a 20-person elimination match. Two wrestlers begin the match, and new competitors enter every 90 seconds. Entrants are eliminated upon going over the top rope with both feet touching the floor. The winner of the Liberty
Lottery match
year.
Malone was the runner-up of the 2025 Liberty Lottery, being last eliminated by Papadon. He and Commander King have both declared their entries in the 2026 Liberty Lottery, so VCW officials have set them in a Liberty Lottery advantage match for June 6: The winner of Myron Malone vs. Commander King will enter the Lottery last in the No. 20 position, but the loser will begin the match at No. 1. For more information about VCW at the Norfolk Masonic Temple on June 6, visit vcwprowrestling.com.
Myron Malone poses for the crowd ahead of his match on Saturday, April 4, 2026 at the Norfolk Masonic Temple in Norfolk, Va. (JONATHAN MCLARTY / FREELANCE)
LDJ punches Joseph Keys during a singles match on Saturday, April 4, 2026 at the Norfolk Masonic Temple in Norfolk, Va. (JONATHAN MCLARTY / FREELANCE)
Virginia Heavyweight Champion Rex Lawless hits a handcuffed Ken Dixon with a steel chair during a Last Man Standing title match on Saturday, April 4, 2026 at the Norfolk Masonic Temple in Norfolk, Va. (JONATHAN MCLARTY / FREELANCE)
The Military Aviation Museum presents Flying Proms
- A symphonic airshow and patriotic celebration unique in the United States
extraordinary event that stands as a singular experience in the United States — an outdoor symphonic concert, air show, and fireworks celebration all rolled into one. A harmonious blend of history, music, and family-friendly entertainment, this premiere spectacle transforms the Museum grounds into the ultimate VIP destination. Drawing thousands of enthusiastic guests, it features the Virginia Wind Symphony accompanying flight demonstrations by some of the world’s rarest historic warbirds. Set against the backdrop of themes inspired by aviation and adventure films, as well as history itself, witness graceful aerial maneuvers and a commanding musical performance as the sun sets. As night falls, the symphony continues with patriotic melodies celebrating the United States, culminating in a grand fireworks extravaganza that marks the perfect finale to a magical evening.
This outdoor concert, air show, and fireworks celebration is the perfect blend of history and family-friendly fun, best enjoyed over a picnic basket on our grass taxiway, where general admission seating invites you to spread out a blanket and relax.
Elevate your experience at this extraordinary event by indulging in our Premiere VIP Chalet options. Offering an exclusive vantage point to witness the outdoor symphonic concert, air show, and grand fireworks display, our VIP Viewing ensures that you and your guests enjoy a matchless evening of history, music, and unparalleled entertainment amidst the enchanting atmosphere of the Museum grounds.
Gates open at 5pm, and the concert begins at 7pm. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased on line at www.militaryaviationmuseum.org. The Military Aviation Museum is located at 1341 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23457. Parking at the museum is free and plentiful. For more information call (757) 721-7767 or visit www.militaryaviationmuseum.org.
Attendees enjoy flight demonstrations by some of the world’s rarest historic warbirds, sunset views, live music by the Virginia Wind Symphony and fireworks at a previous Flying Proms event at the Military Aviation Museum. (PHOTO CREDIT: MILITARY AVIATION MUSEUM)
played by Lucky Malazzi. Lucky is not only playing the role of show guide DJ Lucky, but he is the party guy. He’s cool, commanding, fun and energetic. He is providing that live DJ aspect to an environment that traditionally did have a live band. Lucky is playing hits on the radio, songs you may have not heard in a long time. Sir Mix-Alot will come on. And you’re like, wait a minute. Are we in the same show that I thought I was coming to? It’s it’s incredible. And, you know, there’s country. Ah, there’s hip hop, there’s rock, there’s, uh, Korean pop K-pop. Yeah, and so it’s actually just such a fun person to share the stage.
And the 3rd person is Wesley Williams, he plays the role of Cam, the influencer. He wants to capture all of the moments. He’s up and close with and personal with the audience. He’ll have his phone in his hand. He’ll have a camera. He’s capturing something on stage closer than what maybe the eye can see. And with the 3 of us together, it really is such a fun combination. We have so much fun together, but we are able to hold our own as well, and we have to because there are moments where we’re not together. So that’s why we embody together what that role of Ringmaster does and we guide the audience along in whatever’s going on. And with all of the strengths that we have, I think that this combination is just perfect. And Wesley, he is not only the influencer, but more importantly, he is still riding the world’s tallest rideable unicycle. This time it’s 25 wheels stacked on top of each other, like in a zigzag formation from the very top to the very bottom, you can just see like this S of wheels and he rides it in a circle. And I mean, it’s nail biting every single time. So he’s still unicycling and he does a unicycling act with Mimo Seedler, who is also a world champion and together they’re unicycling.
Y: I am fascinated by your character. Did you create it? Did you have any input in it?
LI: For Aria, I believe Ringling found me, and I didn’t know that this was the perfect place for me as well at the same time and that, for me personally, would fulfill so many things because I was asked by a mentor of mine. His name is Pat Williams. He is the co-founder of the Orlando Magic, in the Hall of Fame, and an NBA executive. I went to dinner with him one night and he asked me what my passion was and I said, “Well, I have a passion for people”. And he said, “Ok, so with your talent being music and performing, when you find those two things meeting at a crossroad, that’s your sweet spot”. And so I’ve always held on to that. And I’ve always made sure to chase both: the people and performing, that’s my sweet spot. So, for me personally, this is that sweet spot, and that is why it’s so fulfilling to me, which is why I’m so glad that I’m here.
Initially, I had a manager when I worked at Walt Disney World in Orlando years ago. She moved on to casting for Feld Entertainment. And at the time, they kept things very secret. They wanted someone who had a commanding presence, who loves people, who is fun and all of those boxes seemed to be describing me and I was like, this is wild. From the world I come from: I went to school for a vocal performance. I changed to musical theatre, so the idea of getting into character is normal to me. I had a Zoom interview. I sang Proud Mary over Zoom in my house, and I danced, I sang, we talked, and I remember when we hung up, I said, I told my mom and dad, I said, guys, I was like, even if whatever this is doesn’t work out, I was reminded as to how much I love doing what I do. And obviously it worked out, so here I am.
When we were in the rehearsal process, it was all encouragement for me to be myself. There are lines, obviously, and there’s a certain refinement you have, you know, especially being in a full-size arena, there’s a different way of projecting your movements and your clarity. But all of it was encouraged to be an extension of me. So, every single day or night that we do the show, I don’t feel like I’m having to become something else. I am myself, and I am able to just continue to pour out what I hope to be an inspiration for anyone who comes to see the show. It’s a blessing just to be able to smile when I want, laugh when I want, sing how I want, it’s all just an extension of me. So yes, I say in the show, my name’s Aria, but in a sense, it’s like, I never feel like I’m pretending because it’s me. And that’s just the biggest blessing. That’s very rare in this industry for sure.
Y: You sing five songs in the show. Do you have a favorite one that’s special to you?
LI: It’s a hard choice between the opening number for me is so fun because it covers so many genres in one production number. And I get to rap, which is something I’ve done before in a show. It’s not like this is my first time, but it’s been a while, and I love the genre of rap music, and I love that rhythmic,
spoken word. It’s the energy behind it and what it does and the cleverness and it feels good to do. And so I get to do that and just like sing and everyone’s out. I do love it. I have to also say when I perform, “I’m Just a Girl” by Gwen Stefani with the contortion act, featuring Jordan McKnight from the United States and our very own, Trio Nova, from Ukraine. We also have 3 beautiful performers from China, part of the Hunan group. They do bike robotics, but they’re also in this act with us, the 3 of these ladies. So I’m singing this song and it’s just so empowering and so fun because I really get up close with the audience to high 5 them or vibe with someone who knows all the words to the song. Being that close to the audience and getting to see their faces, when Jordan or any of the girls twist into something that they can’t look away, it’s awesome. It also feels so good to share the stage with them and to be their soundtrack. And I think that’s really cool because it’s just an intimate moment with all of us. It starts off really eerie and then it breaks off into a little rock and then it kind of goes a little country, but, you know, I’m putting soul behind it. It’s really fun. I can’t really choose. All of the songs I sing are fun.
Y: Going a little deeper, is there a favorite part in the whole show that you get to do every night, and you may have answered this already, that you look forward to doing it?
LI: Yeah, this is a good question. Of course, I love the opening number because this is the first impression that the audience gets to see and defines who we are. An unexpected favorite moment that I get to do is an aerial swing of maybe like 30 feet in the air at the very end of the show. The moment isn’t about me at all because yes, I’m singing and everyone’s out, but there’s so much going on. It’s like the finale of the show and it’s so fun because it’s one of those things I think of when I was a little girl. I loved going to the park with my dad and he would push me on the swing. And to be able to do that now just makes me happy and I have a blast doing it and my family did get to see me do it at one of our shows. I feel like the little girl has been brought out of me every single time.
Y: Can you talk about the crew/team of the whole RBBBC?
LI: A lot of people don’t realize how important the crew and the backstage operation is because without them, we really would not be able to do anything. They don’t get enough praise and I am so thankful for the team we have. They are the first ones to enter the arena and the last ones to leave. But even during the show, they’re doing so much all the time. They want to make sure that we are safe and we’re comfortable. They make it clear that they have our lives in their hands and they take what they do seriously. And also, I appreciate how hard they work without getting the applause. We’re getting the applause and they don’t get their moment to be featured. They deserve their flowers. They deserve the applause.
Y: Let’s learn about you. Where are you from, life growing up, and what made you fall in love with music, entertainment, live theatre, and this beautiful, wonderful line of work that you’re currently doing and obviously very privileged and blessed to do.
LI: Yes. So I am from Georgia, and a Georgia girl at heart. I absolutely love the South. My parents did not have a career in music,
but they definitely encouraged music and always made sure that my sister and I were exposed to a lot of the performing arts, going to see live performances and we learned proper theatre etiquette at a very young age. How to dress, how to act, how and when to applaud. You know, you don’t make noise during different things like that. So they would take us to the Fox Theater. I remember one day for my birthday, we went to go see the dancer Alvin Ailey Jr. perform and I was just in awe. I went home and I was trying to lift my leg in the air like I saw the girls do and like to twirl around. It was so fun. My mom would play everything from James Brown and Whitney Houston, and then my dad, he would play NPR in the car all of the time, opera and classical music. I got such a wide range of exposure. I would also listen to what my older sister would listen to. I did get some exposure to R&B at an early age, some rap artists and just understanding that and with her and her friends harmonizing together, kind of being around that ear and just learning, learning, learning.
Y: You are strong in your faith.
LI: I know without a doubt, everything that I have achieved has not been because of me, it’s been because of the blessings that God has blessed me with. He had a plan that I could not, even if I had the power to, I could not have planned my life. And just to think of all of the things that have happened and have
come around, that should not have worked out in the way it did. I know it’s definitely from him. I fully acknowledge it and every show I do, I’m like, “God, thank you for this opportunity”. I’m filled with gratitude for what he’s done in my life. It’s a beautiful thing to reflect on.
Y: Can you tell us about a pinch me moment or two that you can’t believe you got to do and experience because of being in Ringling?
LI: The first one that comes to mind is when I got to talk to Kelly Clarkson. I was a guest on her show virtually and we talked about the show a little bit. She’s an American icon, the first American Idol winner. I remember watching her win. She is so genuine and that was just tremendous. My overall wow, pinch me moments are any time someone shares how much I inspired them, because that’s what I want to do. Yes I’ve met celebrities but I think anytime a person is just willing to approach me or send me a message on Instagram or Facebook and say, “I just want you to know, my daughter or my son, or, I felt so inspired or I was in awe watching you”. It’s so fulfilling and an overall a pinch me moment.
Yiorgo is an arts, entertainment and sports writer. A stage, TV and movie actor, he is also a sports entertainer, educator, motivational speaker, writer, storyteller and columnist.
The Greatest Show On Earth®, the all‑new Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Circus is back for its annual return to the Norfolk Scope Arena June 4th 7th. (PHOTO CREDIT: RINGLING BROS. AND BARNUM & BAILEY® CIRCUS/GEORITTENMYER)
Elevate summer celebrations with easy backyard recipes featuring fresh corn
By Feature Impact
SOURCE: DUDA FARM FRESH FOODS
Whether you’re grilling in the backyard, at a picnic or simply relaxing poolside to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, this summer is sure to be filled with special celebrations. Throughout those 250 years, food has brought people together — and continues to do so.
From barbecues to patios, fresh foods are at the heart of American celebrations. Healthy, fresh ingredients help elevate classic recipes with sweet corn taking center stage in many iconic summer dishes. As a trusted American grower, Duda Farm Fresh Foods provides equally healthy and flavorful recipes using Dandy Sweet Corn to build the heart of your menu.
While corn on its own is a classic side dish — with Americans consuming approximately 1,400 bushels per year, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture — you can put a twist on tradition by serving Elote, also known as Mexican street corn, as a bold and delicious way to enjoy fresh corn at its best. Cooked to perfection then slathered in a creamy, zesty mix of mayonnaise, lime juice, cheese and chili powder, Elote transforms a simple ear of corn into an irresistible snack or side.
You can add its vibrant flavor and fun to your table with a number of easy cooking methods:
Grill: For the traditional method of cooking Elote, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the corn directly on the grill grates then cook 10-15 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes until nicely charred and cooked through, like these recipes for Easy Elote Corn or Vegan Elote.
Boil: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add corn and cook 5-7 minutes until tender.
Roast: Preheat the oven to 400 F. Place corn on a baking sheet and roast 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400 F. Cook corn for 12-15 minutes, turning once.
Visit DudaFresh.com to find more ways to elevate your patriotic celebrations.
Easy Elote Corn Recipe courtesy of The Produce Moms on behalf of Duda Farm Fresh Foods Servings: 4
1 Dandy Sweet Corn Tray (4 count)
1 lime, juice only (about 2 tablespoons)
1 cup mayonnaise or Mexican crema
2 tablespoons Elote seasoning
1 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
hot sauce or chili powder (optional)
Heat grill to medium-high heat. Place corn directly on grates and cook 10-15 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until charred and cooked through.
While corn is still warm, squeeze lime juice on all sides. Brush or spoon mayonnaise on each ear, ensuring all sides are coated.
Evenly sprinkle Elote seasoning over coated corn. Using hands, gently press seasoning into mayo.
Arrange Elote on serving platter, sprinkle with cotija cheese and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve with hot sauce or chili powder for extra heat, if desired.
Vegan Elote Recipe courtesy of Darn Good Veggies on behalf of Duda Farm Fresh Foods Cook time: 16 minutes | Total time: 28 minutes
Servings: 4
Vegan Parmesan:
1/2 cup raw cashews
2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Elote:
1/3 cup vegan mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon ancho chili powder
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/4 teaspoon chipotle powder (optional)
1 pinch salt
4 ears Dandy Corn
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
To make vegan Parmesan: In small food processor or blender, pulse cashews, nutritional yeast, garlic powder and salt until it resembles grated Parmesan.
Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
In bowl, stir mayo, ancho chili powder, garlic, lime juice, chipotle powder and salt until smooth.
Place corn on grill or grill pan and cook on all sides until corn is cooked and has grill marks, about 4 minutes per side.
Spread corn with chili mayo then sprinkle with vegan Parmesan and cilantro.
Where heritage meets health: Connecting culture and nutrition to fight diabetes
By Feature Impact SOURCE: AVOCADOS FROM MEXICO
Meals served at home can carry significant meaning, including community and connection centered around flavorful dishes. They can also represent an opportunity to encourage good nutrition, particularly for those at heightened risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes.
With Hispanic adults 66% more likely to have diagnosed diabetes than non-Hispanic white adults, according to research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Avocados From Mexico is committed to providing culturally relevant, empowering resources. In collaboration with the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and chef Pati Jinich, the No. 1-selling avocado brand in the U.S. is showcasing the vibrant intersection of nutritious food and rich family traditions with a special collection of recipes.
“I grew up in a Mexican household where food was our love language — but there was also stigma and very little guidance around diabetes,” Jinich said. “When my aunt, and later my mom, were diagnosed, it took time to understand what healthy eating could look like for them. That’s why this partnership means so much to me. Our culture and our food are not the problem — they’re part of the solution. Traditional ingredients like avocados can deliver both flavor and wellness, while giving families the resources mine didn’t have. That’s incredibly meaningful.”
Classic avocado flavor can enhance some of the most delicious, diabetes-friendly dishes on your menu, such as Jinich’s Lime-Rubbed Chicken Avocado Tacos with Corn Guacamole. Created to help reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes in the Hispanic community, this recipe is powered by the good fats and zero-sugar goodness of Avocados From Mexico.
While honoring heritage and health, you don’t have to sacrifice the flavors your family loves. The heart of Hispanic culture — its food — can also be the key to a healthier future.
To take the 60-second Type 2 Diabetes Risk Test and find more diabetes-friendly recipes, which each meet the nutritional guidelines of the ADA, visit avocadosfrommexico.com/health.
Lime-Rubbed Chicken Avocado Tacos with Corn Guacamole
Recipe courtesy of Pati Jinich on behalf of Avocados From Mexico Servings: 8
Chicken:
1 tablespoon fresh-squeezed lime juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary, or 1/4 teaspoon dried
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
corn or safflower oil
Corn Guacamole:
1 jalapeno chile, roasted and chopped, or to taste
2 garlic cloves, skin on
2 large ripe Avocados From Mexico, halved, pitted and diced
3/4 cup corn kernels shaved from corn, or cooked from thawed
3/4 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved or chopped
1 tablespoon fresh-squeezed lime juice
3/4 teaspoon kosher or sea salt, or to taste
Tacos:
16 corn tortillas
To make chicken: In bowl, mix lime juice with olive oil, salt, ground pepper and rosemary. Pour on top of chicken in container. Cover and refrigerate 30 minutes or up to 12 hours. Heat medium-sized saute or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add corn or safflower oil; once hot but not smoking, add chicken. Saute until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pan; place on chopping board to cool. When cool enough to handle, slice into diagonal strips about 1/2-inch wide.
To make corn guacamole: Place jalapeno and garlic cloves in small baking dish under broiler 6-9 minutes, or until completely cooked through, soft and skin is charred. Once cool enough to handle, peel garlic and mince along with chiles. Place diced avocado in mixing bowl. Add charred and minced garlic and jalapenos, gently tossing together. Incorporate corn and tomatoes. Squeeze lime juice on top and sprinkle with salt. Mix together.
To assemble tacos: In hot skillet or comal set over medium-low heat, heat tortillas about 1 minute per side. Place tortillas in tortilla warmer or wrap in clean kitchen towel or cloth napkin. Serve with guacamole and chicken.
VEGAN ELOTE
Take charge of your skin health: How TRICARE supports skin cancer screening and treatment
By TRICARE Communications
FALLS CHURCH, Va. — As summer approaches and outdoor activities increase, it’s essential to protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. TRICARE is committed to supporting your skin health by covering skin cancer exams and providing resources for prevention and treatment.
“Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S.,” said Jeannine Pickrell, MS, RN, Director of Population Health at the TRICARE Health Plan. “It’s also often preventable, and treatable if caught early.”
Cancer screening, including skin cancer, is covered as part of TRICARE’s Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Examinations. In general, there are no copayments for HP&DP exams. TRICARE covers one HP&DP exam annually. Your provider will decide if you have the risk factors for a skin cancer screening.
TRICARE covers skin cancer exams for individuals:
With a family or personal history of skin cancer, Increased occupational or recreational exposure to sunlight, or
Clinical evidence of precursor lesions (unusual spots noticed by your provider)
What to know about skin cancer
A FEW FACTS
The sun’s ultraviolet light can damage skin cells and is the main cause of skin cancer. In the short term, this damage can cause sunburn. Over time, UV damage adds up, leading to changes in skin texture, premature skin aging, and sometimes skin cancer. UV rays can reach you on cloudy and cool days, and they reflect off surfaces like water, cement, sand, and snow.
PREVENTION IS KEY
The UV Index forecasts the strength of UV rays each day. If the UV index is 3 or higher in your area, protect your skin from too much exposure to the sun. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends several ways to protect your skin when the UV index is 3 or higher:
Stay in the shade.
Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs.
Wear a hat with a wide brim to shade your
face, head, ears, and neck.
Wear sunglasses that wrap around and block both UVA and UVB rays.
Use a broad spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 15 or higher.
You can also check out Uniformed Services University’s sun safety tips (online at https:// www.hprc-online.org/physical-fitness/environmental-extremes/sun-safety-tips-prevent-skin-cancer), and specifics on military sun safety (online at https://www.hprc-online.org/physical-fitness/injury-prevention/ military-sun-safety-raising-skin-cancerawareness-service).
YOU’RE IN CHARGE
Knowing the signs of skin cancer is your first line of defense, as detailed by the CDC.
Not all skin cancers look the same. For melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, it’s good to know the A-B-C-D-Es of its appearance:
A. Asymmetrical: Does the mole or spot have an irregular shape with two parts that look very different?
B. Border: Is the border irregular or jagged?
C. Color: Is the color uneven?
D. Diameter: Is the mole or spot larger than the size of a pea?
E. Evolving: Has the mole or spot changed during the past few weeks or months?
Talk to your doctor if you notice changes in your skin such as a new growth, a sore that doesn’t heal, a change in an existing growth, or any of the A-B-C-D-Es of melanoma. The
National Cancer Institute has more information on what to look for, when to go for a screening, as well as possible treatments for skin cancer.
Protect your skin this summer and beyond. Schedule your annual TRICARE exam, use sunscreen, cover up during peak sun hours, and consult your provider about any skin changes. Early detection and prevention are your best tools for staying healthy. Learn more about how TRICARE covers preventive services.
Would you like the latest TRICARE news sent to you by email? Visit TRICARE Subscriptions to get benefit updates, news, and more.
Cancer screening, including skin cancer, is covered as part of TRICARE’s Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Examinations.
