Virginia Connector - AUG/SEP 2022 - Salem Lakes/Rock Creek by Local Umbrella Media

Virginia Salem Lakes/ Rock Creek WEFREEDOMFESTWANTYOU ! LOCAL EVENTS REV UP ! ART & FESTIVALS & MUSIC, OH MY! WHAT IS A SENIOR REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST? BEST 2022 HOME RENOVATION IDEAS MAKE-YOUR-OWN-CLOTHES WORKSHOPS STAYING HEALTHY THIS SUMMER THE BUZZ ABOUT SOLAR ENERGY Vol Issue1 5 11th Annual + KELLY REALTOR®RE/MAXKLAERSAllianceVA&NCJONATHAN HOMEPROSPERITYHAUGMORTGAGE Compliments of & CONNECTOR

Michelle Westberry office

INSPIRED MEDIA | AUGUST 20222 CM (757) Michelle@ConnectorMagazines.com567-9354 Connector MAGAZINES connecting communities, one neighborhood at a time

Big THANK YOU to our amazing local artists who have allowed us to showcase their art pieces to you. Rick Romano, Sam Welty, Clayton Singleton, Eric and Todd Lindbergh, and in this issue Aimee Bruce. Watch for each new issue’s cover featuring another local artist! Starting with this issue, we're including local entertainment, so if you know of upcoming local shows please let us know. We are also big on in-state travel and events as "Heads in Beds create tax dollars." Go Virginia for knowing how to keep the entertainment live and strong! And remember, send your event info to us at office@connectormagazines.com and we'll list your event 100% FREE!

A big hug for all our charity organizations from Virginia Beach Fallen Heroes to FreedomFest, The Oyster Crush and more. We love bringing awareness to these amazing events, where proceeds go to those in need. Virginia Beach gives back!

This month I want to give special attention to our local experts! From REALTORS® to financial advisors, home Improvement, health experts and more, we have some of the "best of the best" that I have encountered in my 25+ years in marketing. Our local experts can’t just be anyone with a few marketing dollars. They must come by referral and pass several other requirements. When we place them in our magazines and create the platform for them to give advice to our readers (with our stamp of approval), you can bet we're doing our research so you don't have to. If you ever experience anything less than amazing service, we want to know. We are confident that won't happen! If you know any local experts in any industry who want to help give back to their community by sharing their knowledge and expertise AND love what they do, please let us know!

Michelle connecting communities one neighborhood at a time Hello Virginia Beach! Connector Magazines is proud to be releasing our fifth issue of the Virginia Connector! With the help of all of our local experts, fabulous residents, event coordinators, charity organizers and more, we have been able to expand our reach from just one neighborhood to over nine in just five short months! We look forward to eventually covering the whole state of Virginia and promoting all local artists, events, dining, businesses, nonprofits, local residents and in-state travel. When you think of Virginia Connector we want you to think "Everything Local!"

Thank you everyone for your commitment, dedication and drive to make Virginia the best place in the United States to call home!! Stay safe and love one another! WANTED! Local Anchors and Experts! Local Anchor Sponsorship is available for those who enjoy giving back, can offer educational information on their area of expertise, want to help educate with positive knowledge, compassion and respect. We’re looking for everything local: Dining, Artists, Entertainers, Businesses, Services, Residents, Pets, Travel, Events and more. If your business falls into any of ANY of these local categories and you qualify as an expert, we want to meet you! Our goal is to provide local residents with relevant information so we can all make the most informed choice when the time comes.

@connectormagazines.comORcallMichelleWestberry(757)567-9354 WOULD YOU LIKE TO SPONSOR ONE OF OUR MAGAZINES?COMMUNITY We'd love to hear from you!

Special thanks to my Anchor Sponsors (you know who you are!). Anchor Sponsors are those who take the lead. They help organize, promote and protect. They are the ones watching out for their neighbors and the ones who know your name (or at least want to). Local Anchors can be anyone from a local REALTOR® to a business owner whose first priority is supporting everything local. ANY local organization that loves giving back is one we're interested in working with. We love giving back, too.

Owner/PublisherWestberry

CONNECTOR MAGAZINES 3 inside this issue FOUNDER/ SALES & MARKETING Michelle Westberry EDITOR IN CHIEF GRAPHIC DESIGN COORDINATOR Dana InspiredPUBLISHERGrizzélBradWeberMedia, Inc. TO ADVERTISE CONTACT Michelle Westberry (757) 567-9354 date.Publisher'sincludedpermissioncationInspiredConnectorMichelle@ConnectorMagazines.comMagazinesispublishedbyMediaLLC.Reproductionordupliofanyparthereinrequireswrittenfrompublisher.AllinformationhereiniscorrecttothebestofknowledgeasofpublicationCorrectionsshouldbeforwardedto Publisher at Office@ConnectorMagazines. com for consideration. Paid advertisements or advertorials contained herein are not endorsed or recommended by Publisher and do not reflect Publisher's opinion or political or religious views; therefore, Publisher shall not be held liable for business practices of advertisers. Publisher not liable for images or content accepted in good faith. STAFF SUPPORT Paw-ssistants to Michelle Westberry OTHER CONTRIBUTORS Robin Brickell, Robin Boutique-Boutique Shannon Muncy, Precision Overhead Garage Doors Dr. Josh Collingsworth, Chiropractor Alexandra Urrutia Virginia Beach TuckerVisitVirginia.govSPCA ♦ Cersei ♦ Macie cover story home & lifestyle local biz spotlight meet robin brickell local vibes entertainer spotlight pet expertcompanionshiptipsoncurrent real estate trends pain without pills local vibes networking local events & in-state travel hurricane readiness "FreedomFest" is here come out and honor our heroes best 2022 home renovations + solar energy facts in simple terms Rising Vibes brings local acoustic music alive Robin Boutique-Boutique opens up about fashion & more Anthony Brand (of Cultivated Mind) pushing the boundaries of reggae pets can help lower our stress level & help with anxiety & depression downsizing can be uplifting + Senior Real Estate Specialist explained Dr. Josh Collingsworth weighs in on chiropractic therapy out & about making new connections (& friends) mural, art & music festivals abound! expert David Williams offers tips on preparing for a hurricane The CONNECTOR has been incredibly well produced and it’s an honor to be a part of something so fresh and local! It’s definitely VA Beach’s BEST “locals only” magazine! My business is receiving more local business, which is who we want to work with! It's like you are being referred to by a friend. You know you’re getting contrac tors you can trust! INTEGRITY TRI-CO (tree services). what our advertisers are saying "

Special thanks toourLocal Experts

Pineda Custom Painting understands the importance of exterior appeal of your home or business to the interior paint that brings style and feel to your daily life.

Integrity Tri-Co is a full-spectrum tree services company. Specializing in tricky tree removal and grading services, owners Steven Griffin and Alexander Shield take great As a Senior Mortgage Consultant with Prosperity Home Mortgage since 2008, Jonathan Haug is proudly ranked in the Top 1% of all Mortgage Originators in America. He assists clients with their residential mortgage needs throughout Virginia, North Carolina and Maryland. Dedicated to providing the highest level of veterinary medicine along with friendly, compassionate service, we believe in treating every patient as if they were our own pet, and giving them the same loving attention and care.

From moisture under your home to structural repairs, we’ve got you covered. The health of your family and your home are our top priority. We provide timely and effective water proofing solutions to protect your home for years to come.

Jodie can help bring your memories and visions to life. From weddings to corporate headshots, Jodie is here for every step your life takes. To set up your unique photo session, email, call, text or fill out the information form online at: BryteEyeProductions.com.

PHOTOGRAPHY Licensed in AK, AL, AR, AZ, CO, CT, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NE, NC, ND, NH, NM, NV, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, nmlsconsumeraccess.org/) Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Haug Senior Mortgage Consultant NMLS#: 246016 Office: 757-374-1541

Medicare Specialist Independent Agent since 2005. Integrity Insurance Services represents top carriers in the area, providing thousands of Hampton Roads Medicare beneficiaries with information they need and deserve to select the best Medicare plan for them.

Jonathan

Cell: jonathanhaug.phmloans.comjonathan.haug@phmloans.com757-374-1541 800 Laskin Road Virginia Beach, VA 23451 All first mortgage products are provided by Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC. (877) 275-1762. Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC products may not be available in all areas. Not all borrowers will qualify.Licensed by the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. Licensed by the Delaware State Bank Commissioner. Massachusetts Mortgage Lender License ML75164. Licensed by the NJ Department of Banking and Insurance. Also licensed in AK, AL, AR, AZ, CO, CT, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NE, NC, ND, NH, NM, NV, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV and WY. NMLS #75164 (NMLS Consumer Access at http://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/) ©2022 Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC. All Rights Reserved. To learn more about becoming a recognized Expert in Your Neighborhood contact MICHELLE WESTBERRY (757) 567-9354 CHOOSE FIRST HOME DECOR & GIFTS Sharon Ballance TOPIARIES (757) 437-1183 ♦ topiariesva.com 301 - 25th Street, Virginia Beach VA Offering a unique shopping experience with seasonally changing creative gifts & home accessories for your home or office, Topiaries carries hundreds of different lines, many of which have landed on Oprah’s famous "O" list, such as Votivo & much more. HOME IMPROVEMENT FLOORING George Bunch TIDEWATER FLOORING (757) tidewaterflooring.com524-4433 We specialize in expert installations and provide quality products. We strive to make the experience hassle-free by delivering excellent communication with our clients. We look forward to serving you and your family for all your flooring needs.

4 INSPIRED MEDIA | AUGUST 2022

Jodie Lynn BRYTE EYE PRODUCTIONS (757) 478-1649 ♦ JodieLynn@BryteEyeProductionsBryteEyeProductions.com jonathan.haug@phmloans.com 800 Laskin Road ortgage, LLC. (877) 275-1762. Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC products may not be available in all areas. Not all borrowers will qualify.Licensed by the alifornia Residential Mortgage Lending Act. Licensed by the Delaware State Bank Commissioner. Massachusetts Mortgage Lender License ML75164.

CONNECTOR MAGAZINES 5 RETAIL CLOTHING & FASHION Robin Brickell ROBIN BOUTIQUE-BOUTIQUE (757) 904-6540 ♦ RobinBoutiqueBoutique.comrobin@robinb-b.com STRATEGIC PLANNER - LOCAL David Williams CIVIC PARTICIPANT safetyplanner1@gmail.com WELLNESS & YOGA Nicole Papageorge — VIBING WITH GAIA vibingwithgaia.comhello@nicolepapageorge.com A unique boutique! Juniors, young contemporary & missy handmade and designer clothing with focus on wearable accessories. The boutique is also a working manufacturing studio offering classes and workshops. Embroidery, knitting and felting services also available. Long-time resident of Virginia Beach, David Williams, is the past President of Shore Drive Community Coalition and has contributed significant planning efforts to both civic and military establishments in areas related to natural and manmade Vibingthreats.withGaia is an online holistic wellness business providing personalized yoga offerings and Ayurvedic health consultations, created to hold space for like-mind ed humans in the journey toward spiritual growth and healing. Let's connect! With over 14 years of real estate experience, I can help you find that first home, sell your current home or ease the stress of relocation. Ensuring a pleasant experience for buyers and sellers alike is my personal commitment. I look forward to exceeding your expectations. REAL ESTATE Kelly Klaers RE/MAX Alliance REALTOR® VB & NC (757) 572-9537 ♦ KellySellz@remaxvb.comKellySellz.com contact MICHELLE WESTBERRY (757) 567-9354 find out more about how to join our local roster expertsoftoday! TRANSPORTATION COMMERCIAL Melissa Hedayatpoor MTM INTERNAT'L (407) 914-4866 ♦ operations@shipMTM.comshipMTM.com Family owned and operated transportation and logistics for over a decade. MTM can analyze and develop complex logis tics plans tailored to customer’s requirements. We under stand the challenges of moving oversize/overweight freight. Did you know that you can get the two-page center spread in Virginia Connector Magazine for about the same cost per home as a first class stamp?! Unlike direct-mail postcards and flyers, our mag azines get opened and are read all month long, cover-to-cover, over and over, by local residents and homeowners, rather than landing in the trash. Perfect for local businesses that want to establish themselves as THE GO-TO EXPERT within their industry.

6 INSPIRED MEDIA | AUGUST 2022

EDITOR'S NOTE: Help Rising Vibes keep the jam sessions alive. Contact them @ info@rising-vibes.com and be a part of this important local movement.

BUILDING A SINGLE PLATFORM WHERE LOCAL RISING ARTISTS CAN SHARE THEIR MUSIC WITH VIRGINIA & THE WORLD Rising Vibe's first video was for local musician Cultivated Mind and was re corded 10/18/2020 and that was just the beginning of our local history... If you're a local musician in need of pro motional services, contact Amber & Scott VISIT rising-vibes.comWEBSITEEMAILinfo@rising-vibes.com

Founders Amber & Scott Rich ardson are not musicians but lovers of music, especially the genre of reggae. Scott and I are avid music lovers of ALL genres but we especially love the positive messages of reggae," Amber tells us. Scott's professional background is in 32+ years in sales and Amber is a bacca laureate prepared registered nurse of 23 years and hobbyist nature photographer. As music lovers, the couple quite nat urally made friends with musicians in the reggae music community. When COVID hit, musicans were hit hard as bars were closed and/or not playing live music. We had seen some amateur videos out there and thought we could do something like that to help musicians get their music heard, find new fans to buy their music and merchandise, and listen to them on streaming platforms like Spotify. I already had a nice camera so we start ed there. With my camera, a friend's cam era, a GoPro and some sound equiment loaned to us by a friend, we dove head-first into making videos. Cultivated Mind was our first video almost two years ago on October 18, 2020. Tony Brand of Cultivated Mind was a close personal friend of ours and volunteered to be our guinea pig. His wife Rachel (a professional photographer) helped record some of the video. The recordings we do are closed, private recordings. We have a 12 x 12 stage that overlooks my butterfly garden. We now have three cameras and an upgraded sound board/mixer basically everything needed exept the musician and his instru ment. Once the video is recorded, the next step is to edit and perfect the video and get it posted to our YouTube channel. We also stream the recorded music from that day once the music is mastered on Spotify, Amazon Music, etc. with the artist's ap proval of course. We’ve only done one festival where we recorded some live pop-up video sessions with a few bands that were playing at a festival, but hope to do more of that in the future. After the first few videos, Scott got in on the action and learned how to oper ate the camera. As things progressed we were able to add more cables, lights and equipment to help make our videos even better. We sell Rising Vibes merchandise out of our car and on our website to help fund the updating of equipment and keep the costs free to local musicians. Next we hope to add another camera and invest in some better lighter. Our goal to to help musicians of all genres who are just starting out by providing high quality music and video production services. We do feature touring bands when they come to Virginia Beach from time to time to help drive traffic to the YouTube channel and so their fans may find a new favorite artist that is just starting out! It's a win-win. At present, they've produced 45 videos and going strong. We really love what we do and it's such an honor to do our part and to be in the presence of such talent right here in our own backyard literally.

local biz jam sessions

" Rising Vibes Jam Sessions YouTube channel: youtube.com/RisingVibesJamSessions

local

CONNECTOR MAGAZINES 7 CONTACT US ABOUT YOUR UPCOMING EVENT OR SEND IN YOUR EVENT PHOTOS TO: OFFICE @ CONNECTORMAGAZINES.COM

RisingjamVibessessions upcoming SHOWS

Cultivated Mind's YouTube Playlist: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLRJUzbNPGRwDYbchRx6ItzTZNP_e8pbXg

CONTACT WITH CULTIVATED MIND: keeping local acoustic musicans on the minds (and ears!) of our community 8/22 Harvest 5:00-9:00pm ( Virginia Beach VA) 8/26 New Realm Brewing Co 6:00-9:00pm (Kill Devil Hills, NC) (Harvest, 9:00am-1:00pm (Virginia Beach VA) 8/27 Outer Banks Brewing Station 10:30pm-1:30am (Kill Devil Hills NC) 9/3 One Love Reggae Music Festival 12:00 pm (Virginia Beach VA) 9/8 Tiki's 7:00-10:00pm (Virginia Beach VA) 9/9 Camp Lost Music Festival Time TBD (Zuni VA) 9/11 Sly Clyde Ciderworks 1:00-4:00pm (Hampton VA) 9/16 Chicho's Backstage 8:00pm-12:00am (Norfolk VA) 9/23 Pour Girls 8:00pm-11:00pm (Hampton VA) 9/24 Reggae Fest at Flat Iron Crossroads Time TBD (Gloucester VA) 9/29 Tiki's 7:00pm-10:00pm (Virginia Beach VA) Birthed in 2013 from the sound experiments of Italian-American mu sician and producer Anthony Brand, Cultivated Mind has performed heavily along the east coast of the United States, steadily building a dedicated fanbase through equally dedicated live performances and studio releases. Inspired by Jazz, Blues, NY Hip Hop, Salsa, East Coast Hardcore, and especially old school Dub Reggae production, Cultivated Mind continues to push the boundaries of the Reggae and Dub genres, while simultaneously embracing and respecting the traditions from which they came. Performances take the form of loop shows with drum, bass, guitar, keys, horns, vocals, and live dubbing done by the maestro. Studio releases are typically produced and performed by Brand at his home studio "King Street Records," which was originally located on King Street in Hampton,

sinceandinfectioushigh-energy,Virginia.rootsdubmusic2013

INSPIRED MEDIA | AUGUST 20228

I’ve decided to merge the two neighborhoods because I feel like I’ve (we’ve) been a part of each other’s neighborhoods for the 20 years we’ve lived here! Though I can’t imagine living anywhere else even when I retire we may need to downsize and move to a one-story in the not-too-distant future. I do love it here, but I’m almost 62 and I know that this is a reality. This is also a perfect segue for me becoming a Senior Real Estate Specialist. Check out my article on the topic of downsizing (Page 23). Even the safest neighborhoods with the most vigilant resi dents sometimes experience crime. Sadly, we recently had our cars rifled through. And we weren't the only ones. These incidents began in the early morning hours of July 4th. Thank goodness the perpetra tors didn’t do any physical damage to our cars, but they

Looking Out for One Another Hello Salem Lakes and Rock Creek Friends!

Your local real estate expert KELLY RE/MAXKLAERSAlliance REALTOR® were looking for cash. One of our neighbors had a gift card Hopefullystolen.things won’t escalate. On the Nextdoor app, people began reporting that they had been “hit” as well. On my street, July 4th, they parked under the streetlamp and we have this picture: Though the picture is not clear, we're hoping someone may recognize the white car. Police were un able to make out the license plate. If this looks at all familiar to you, please call the police. To date, the thieves have hit a number of streets in the Salem Lakes neighborhoods not sure if they’ve gone into Rock Creek yet. Keep your eyes open and don't leave valuables in your cars!

Thank you for your time and I hope you enjoy receiving the Salem Lakes/Rock Creek Connector! I digress back to the real estate stuff the next few pages have specific Salem Lakes information about what’s happened in January and February. As this is our first edition in April, I won’t have March information until you ’re reading this. But if you have any specific questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I really hope that this will be a joyful magazine. I have a couple of fun kid pages. I’d also like to highlight folks. If you know of someone who has done something kind, I d love to recognize them. For example, right now I’d like to shout out to owners who live at 3813 Big Bear Ct.! They are always so kind to leave a bowl of water out for the dogs when we walk them. It s especially wonderful on the hot days. Charlie & Basil thank you! Also, recently I’ve noticed a little library on the circle across the street from Damson. Grab a book and sit on the throne. Not sure who set this up, but it’s awesome and adorable. Thank you! A few years ago I started the Facebook.com/Salem Lakes 411 page. Feel free to add fun things that we can share with each other. Lastly, I’d like to introduce my go to lender, Jonathan Haug! Jonathan Haug has been a Senior Mortgage Consultant with Prosperity Home Mortgage since 2008. He is proudly ranked in the Top 1% of all Mortgage Originators in America. Jonathan assists clients with their residential mortgage needs in Virginia, North Carolina, and Maryland. He prides himself on being a local, experienced and professional mortgage specialist. Thousands of homeowners have chosen Jonathan to assist them with their mortgage financing needs. Jonathan is dedicated to providing you with paramount customer service and great terms while finding the personalized solution that meets your home buying or refinancing needs. He has called Hampton Roads home for the over 20 years and is an alumni of Virginia Tech. Jonathan, his wife, Rachel, and two sons currently reside in Norfolk with their dog, Penny. NRMLS ID 246016 If there s anything I can do to help you or get you any specific information about your home, please don’t hesitate to give me a call at 757 572 9537.

“As someone deciding on where they’ll live as they grow older, there are unique challenges to financing and home accessibility that come with real estate and future housing needs. When planning real estate changes over age fifty, an SRES can be the professional who actually works for the client and has the experience and training to understand the unique challenges facing seniors when it comes to house.”

What is a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES)?

KellySellz@remaxvb.com(757)572-9537

♦ Using reverse mortgages and retirement funds in real estate transactions

Thank you for your time and I hope you will enjoy receiving the Salem Lakes Connector!

♦ Identifying senior housing options from active adult communities to aging in place ♦ Connecting you with a vast network of movers, attorneys, home inspectors, and other experts to help you through the process A Realtor® since 2008 and a 2022 SRES designee (and also being 61 years old myself), I understand the unique financial and emotional challenges older adults and their adult children face when there is a need to relocate. I have a team of experts who can help you with everything from reverse mortgages and understanding the importance of universal design to the uses of retirement plans in real estate transactions and how to avoid loan schemes and scams that take advantage of mature adults. If you're reaching that retirement age, or know someone who is, and need help navigating these sometimes sensitive waters, I'd be honored to help with that transition. We homeowners of a certain age can wade through it together.

SinceRetirementLiving.com2007,SeniorReal Estate Specialist® (SRES®) designees have been helping maturing American with their needs. Part of the National Association of REALTORS® family of designations, the SRES® designation is conferred to REALTORS® who complete in-depth training in a wide variety of topics related to homebuyers and sellers over the age of 50. SRES expertise and unique services include: ♦ Helping manage the financial and emotional challenges of selling a long-held family home ♦ Knowledge of how Medicare or Medicaid can be affected by profits from a home sale

♦ Understanding your unique needs and creating a plan to ensure your home meets those needs now, and in the future

CONNECTOR MAGAZINES 9

♦ Guidelines presented by the Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA) ♦ Creating a customized plan to market and sell your property

10 INSPIRED MEDIA | AUGUST 2022 ♦ INTERIOR PAINTING ♦ EXTERIOR PAINTING ♦ DRYWALL REPAIR ♦ PRESSURE WASHING ♦ FINISH CARPENTRY Call us now to schedule your exterior painting forthis spring time CUSTOM RESIDENTIAL PAINTING pinedacustompainting

GARAGE DOOR REPLACEMENT Average cost: $4,041 ♦ Average resale value: $3,769 Cost recouped: 93.3% An attractive garage door is high on the list when it comes to getting cash back on your investment. This curb appeal enhancer could result in getting back nearly the entire amount (93.3%) of what you spent on it when you sell your home — one of the few home remodeling projects to do MANUFACTUREDso.

www.garagedoorsva.com757-705-547924HourApptScheduling 757-399-7500 SHANNON MUNCY Garage Door shannon@precisionvirginia.comConsultant Garage doors should be seen and not heard!

OldSIDINGordilapidated siding can make even the nicest, structurally sound home look worn-out. The report considers replacing it with two types of quality man-made materials: fiber-cement and vinyl.

Average cost: $11,066 ♦ Average resale value: $10,109 Cost recouped: 91.4% Stone always imparts a classic, classy vibe. Replacing vinyl siding with stone veneer — even on just a part of your home, such as the entryway — can greatly enhance the exterior and, again, the curb appeal. The average cost estimate accounts for 36 linear feet of sills, 40 linear feet of corners and one address block, and materials, including two water-resis tant barrier layers and corrosion-resistant lath and fasteners. This project also recoups almost all of its cost (just over 91%).

STONE VENEER

MINOR KITCHEN REMODEL Average cost: $28,279 ♦ Average resale value: $20,125 Cost recouped: 71.2% A modern-looking and functional kitchen can of course boost your enjoy ment of everyday activities like cooking, sharing meals with your family and entertaining friends. It’s also a strong selling point with prospective home buyers. A minor remodel, as the report defines it, is based on a 200-square-foot kitchen with 30 linear feet of countertops and cabinets, where you might be replacing appliances with new, more energy-effi cient models; refacing cabinets with shaker-style panels; installing new countertops or a sink; replacing hardware; adding new flooring; and repainting the walls. Except for the appliances, it mainly involves cosmet ic changes, and that’s how you’ll recoup close to three-fourths (71%) of your outlay. If you’re thinking ROI, keep the project modest. Interestingly, major kitchen remodels that involve changing the room’s size or layout, or installing new cabinetry, return much less: 53–57%.

Tips for updating and adding value to your home at the same time:

IN Renovations have the ability to make us happier in the places we call home, but some updates can add more value than others when it’s time to sell or refi nance. Some of the best home improvements — think an updated kitchen, new deck or remodeled bathroom — can get pricey. It’s helpful to know what kind of return you might expect — that is, how much of the costs you'll recoup, in terms of adding to your home’s value and asking price when you sell.

Average cost: $18,662 ♦ Average resale value: $12,541 Cost recouped: 67.2% 2022 best home renovations

You’ll want to ensure

CONNECTOR MAGAZINES 11 Upgrade your home with NEW FLOORING! Book your FREE estimate TODAY! +1 (757) www.tidewaterflooring.com524-4433 &LuxuryLaminateHardwoodCarpetVinylmore! With our commitment to the industry & our focus on multifamily markets, we appreciate the opportunity to present expert service & quality flooring products to you. Thank you for supporting local business! 60% of the air you breathe up here Schedule your inspectionfreetodaycomesfromdownhere

to replace your current

AverageWOOD: cost: $24,388 ♦ Average resale value: $16,160 Cost recouped: 66.3% If you do the above, but make the frames out of warmer wood windows (better for older or more traditional-looking homes), you’ll spend a little over $24,000 for the job. Not surprisingly, since wood is more expensive, your expected return on investment drops by a full percentage point.

and you should get back

AverageVINYL:WINDOWScost: $20,482 ♦ Average resale value: $13,822 Cost recouped: 67.5% could recoup just over two-thirds of the cost windows install low-E, simulated, divided-light vinyl win dows with a custom-color exterior finish. (Low-E means low emissivity, an energy saver.) that the trim exterior matches ones, and the interior trim is left untouched, range. The average cost for this type of renovation — which accounts for 10 windows — will set you back $20,482.

AverageWOOD: cost: $19,248 ♦ Average resale value: $12,464 Cost recouped: 64.8%

existing

if you

AverageCOMPOSITE:cost: $24,677 ♦ Average resale value: $15,315 Cost recouped: 62.1% Composite decks have exceptional durability. You won’t have to worry about them rotting, warping or splintering like wood tends to do. As a result, they’re more expensive, which hammers their ROI somewhat, down to 62%. The right remodeling project can boost your home’s worth over time. If you refinance, for instance, an appraiser takes renovations into account when estimating your home’s value. A higher home value means you’ll have more equity and a lower loan-to-value ratio. You might even be able to cancel private mortgage insurance payments earlier than anticipated. When you go to sell your home, buyers are likely to pay more for a clean, well-kept property with modern updates that’s move-in ready.

siding,

average cost estimates replacing

to keep costs within

feet with

Vinyl siding can be more budget-friendly than fiber-cement but it has nearly the same ROI. $18,662 1,250 square the siding, roughly 67% that

The

You

The classic wood deck is less expensive to install — though it requires more upkeep — and offers a pretty good return, close to two-thirds of its outlay. The estimate is for a 16×20-foot deck with a simply pat terned floor, railings and stairs — plus a built-in planter and bench.

investment upon resale.

DECK HavingADDITIONafinished outdoor area to work, entertain or just relax in is tops on many prospective homebuyers’ wish lists. The deck remains one of the most popular sorts of “hardscaping” elements. And yet again, material does matter.

new

INSPIRED MEDIA | AUGUST 202212 GET TO KNOW

I am! I grew up in this area and I spent 18 years in North End and now 30 years and counting in Birdneck Point. I remember when most of the waterfront homes were beaches to drop an anchor on for the day. I also recall all the phosphorescent ocean evenings. I remember Seaside amuse ment park and Frontier City. (Oops! Showing my age...) Sean and I got married on a boat off Link horn Bay. A few weeks later, as we were looking for a home, we found ourselves gazing out the window of a house we were looking at and realized that the boat we got married on had stopped at this very spot during our wedding vows. Need I say more?

Fall is just around the corner!

Mention CONNECTOR MAGAZINES & get FREE roll-up sun hat with any purchase (while supplies last) connect with us! now open!!

Q How did you get started in the fashion/ boutique business? Fun fact! My mother was a couture fashion mod el! She worked for Hardy Aimes in London and would even model for Queen Elizabeth! In the '80s my mother and I had a couture yarn store and I did custom work for boutiques and galleries and exhibited at craft and art shows from NYC to FL. The pandemic reduced my desire to travel and I decided to offer what I know to my home town. My husband died unexpectedly in March of 2021 and there is no doubt that his death gave me an appreciation of what I might pass along to others.

We are a working manufactur ing studio offering classes and workshops as well as a women’s boutique, featuring trendy, fun-towear and relaxed fashions ranging from junior to missy sizes. We carry unique designs including clothes, handbags, hats, belts, jewelry and other accessories. Visit our satellite location inside the Painted Tree at Hilltop, where you can find a sampling of our full line of products OR shop online.

RobinBoutiqueBoutique

OWNER & OPERATOR OF ROBIN BOUTIQUE-BOUTIQUE & YOUR LOCAL FASHIONISTA! RobinBoutiqueBoutique.com Virginia Beach 1065

♦ CLOSED SUNDAYS

Shop the cool fashion

We recently had the pleasure of getting to know Robin Brickell, owner of Robin BoutiqueBoutique. We thought you might enjoy getting to know her, too.

Q What do you love most about your neighborhood?

I skinned my knees learning to ride a bike on Oriole. Mom and Dad were renting a house while they built our new family home on 55th Street. This was about 60 years ago. Back then there were metal city signs stating this is a bird sanctuary. I love that every street is named after a bird. I also adore the tranquility of the gardens here.

Why Boutique-Boutique?

Q From your childhood, what single person had the biggest impact on you? My high school art teacher! Her first assignment was to look "up" when we walk, for an enitre week never look at your feet. You would be amazed what you see when performing this assignment. Laskin 904-6540

Here's what our Q & A with her revealed: Q Are you a native of the Virginia Beach area?

robin brickell

Rd #101 & 103 SHOP OUR INVENTORY ONLINE Mon-Tue-Wed-Sat 11am - 4pm Thu-Fri 11am 6pm OPEN DAILY 10am - 8pm VISIT OUR SHOPS Painted Tree at Hilltop 1624 Laskin Rd OR BY APPOINTMENT: (757)

From contemporary to handmade, we've got the perfect fall garments and unique accessories for your transition to fall weather.

Many of our classes are offered in both a participant or observer RSVP. Both have a fee associated with the class and involve a waiver, due to participants using commercial equipment in our studio (felt loom, serg ers, other industrial sewing machines and knitting looms).

Q What are some of your hobbies (If you can find the time!)? I enjoy morning walks and have a love for gardening.

Keeping our dollars local means that our backyard businesses can continue to grow and experiment, which improves our community. It also helps us to support our local nonprofits.

Q Anything exciting going on with Robin Boutique-Boutique that you want to tell clients about? Yes! We always have new products that we get excited about, but the general public may not know that we also offer workshops and classes where you can learn how to make you own clothing, acces sories, jewelry & more. These hands-on events are great fun and the positive feedback we get spurs us on! You really have to experience it to understand the value, and even the social aspect, of our events.

Learn to knit by creating a fun lap shrug. In this workshop we discuss fiber, textures and yarn. If you are a beginner, we start at the beginning. If you want more of a challenge the class can be tailored. Ongoing clinics for help are also be available. These are free! A schedule for clinics and classes can be found on our website.

Much like the chop shop class, participants bring jewlery they do not want to part with, but are not wearing and we learn how to transform and repurpose it. relovedfabrics.com/collections/classes-patterns-workshops

13 chop shop to sign up for a class! jewelry creation knitting & crocheting Attend one of Robin Boutique-Boutique's unique events

CONNECTOR MAGAZINES

Q Why do you feel it's important for people to "shop local?"

SAMPLES OF OUR CLASSES INCLUDE: Participants bring between 1-8 garments they do not want to part with, but are not wearing. We learn how to dismantle those garments and reassemble them into something they will wear. This transformative class can be so much fun and what a great way to repurpose clothes you never wear.

REDUCE LONELINESS According to a survey by the Human Animal Bond Research Institute, 87% of respondents that interactions with an animal help combat feelings of loneliness.

PET COMPANIONSHIP

FIGHT DEPRESSION Walking increases endorphins, which ﬁght depression. Owning a dog can lead to a daily exercise routine that can help reduce stress levels, increase self-esteem, and help develop better sleep patterns. When you adopt an animal from a shelter, you’re not the only one who beneﬁts from the adoption - you’re providing a second chance for a homeless animal.

HEALTH BENEFITS & HEALING POWER

Pet ownership has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness. That is very encouraging for the approximately 40 million adults in the United States who are a ected by depression and anxiety. Here is a look at the science behind healing powers of the human-animal connection.

HEALTH BENEFITS & HEALING POWER

HEALTH BENEFITS

REDUCE STRESS Interacting with animals has been shown to decrease levels of cortisol (a stress-related hormone) and lower blood pressure.

14 INSPIRED MEDIA PET COMPANIONSHIP

REDUCE LONELINESS According to a survey by the Human Animal Bond Research Institute, 87% of respondents that interactions with an animal help combat feelings of loneliness.

While pet ownership is no substitute for professional medical treatment— it can provide a boost in your emotional health

FIGHT DEPRESSION Walking increases endorphins, which ﬁght depression. Owning a dog can lead to a

For information on adopting a pet visit: vbspca.com treatment,medicalprofessionalforsubstitutenoisownershippetWhilevisitinformationmoreForhealth.emotionalyourinboostaprovidecanitnamicoastalvirginia.orgorvbspca.com/pets-make-life-better

BOOST MOOD Oxytocin and dopamine, the neurochemicals associated with positive feelings and bonding, have been observed in both dogs and people.

PET COMPANIONSHIP

POWERHEALING&BENEFITSHEALTHloneliness.anddepression,anxiety,stress,reducetoshownbeenhasownershipPet

REDUCE STRESS Interacting with animals has been shown to decrease levels of cortisol (a stress-related hormone) and lower blood pressure.

COMPANIONSHIPPET

BOOST MOOD Oxytocin and dopamine, the neurochemicals associated with positive feelings and bonding, have been observed in both dogs and people.

StatesUnitedtheinadultsmillion40approximatelytheforencouragingveryisThatbehindsciencetheatlookaisHereanxiety.anddepressionbyectedaarewhoconnection.human-animaltheofpowershealing MOODBOOSTassociatedneurochemicalsthedopamine,andOxytocinobservedbeenhavebonding,andfeelingspositivewithpeople.anddogsbothinSTRESSREDUCEdecreasetoshownbeenhasanimalswithInteractingandhormone)stress-related(acortisoloflevelspressure.bloodlowerLONELINESSREDUCEAnimalHumanthebysurveyatoAccordingrespondentsof87%Institute,ResearchBondcombathelpanimalanwithinteractionsthatloneliness.offeelingsDEPRESSIONFIGHTﬁghtwhichendorphins,increasesWalkingatoleadcandogaOwningdepression.helpcanthatroutineexercisedailyincreaselevels,stressreducedevelophelpandself-esteem,patterns.sleepbettershelter,afromanimalanadoptyouWhenfrombeneﬁtswhooneonlythenotyou’resecondaprovidingyou’re-adoptiontheanimal.homelessaforchance

2. ESTABLISH DAILY ROUTINES TO PROMOTE HEALTH AND REDUCE STRESS The body physically manifests different areas of stress, depending on our daily habits. We can choose to allow these stresses to build up, or we can nip things in the bud before they get bad, which will allow the body to work optimally so we can have a higher level of life expression. TIPS to reduce stress on our systems: ► Go for a walk on the beach early in the morning or later in the afternoon ► Breath work ► Positive self-affirmations ► Yoga ► Express gratitude on a daily basis

4. HYDRATION IS KEY In the full swing of summer, it is especially important to stay hydrated. We also want to address misalignments and restrictions in the spine that can affect the vertebral disc rehy dration process, otherwise known as imbibition. This means that spinal discs may not get the proper nutrition they need. Without properly hydrated spinal discs, degeneration, instabil ity, and eventually spinal decay can occur. When spinal health declines, so does central nervous system function, which communicates with every cell, organ and system in the body. Without adequate hydration, the health of the discs, spine and even the body as a whole suffers. With regular chiroprac tic care, subluxations are removed and proper alignment is restored. Regular adjustments help your body better absorb water and stay healthy. Drink plenty of water this summer and visit us at Thrive Proactive Health for a healthy and happy summer season. make an appointment today with Dr. Collingsworth (757) 422-2000

1. CHOOSE ROUTINE CHIROPRACTIC CARE Your body is a communicating system, controlled and reg ulated by your nervous system, which is encased by our spine. As with any communicating system, if there is interference with the signals being transmitted (think cell phone service) there is a lack of connection. Similarly, lack of connection within our central nervous system (spinal misalignments and irritation to the nerve roots) due to our daily habits, repetitive motions or traumas, will result in dysfunction and disease. Chiropractic adjustments help remove these interferences and allow your body to heal itself, which puts it at the top of the self-care list. Our patients report positive side effects, including better sleep, an improved immune system, more energy and much more. These reasons alone make chiropractic ideal for boost ing your health and wellness this summer. Summer activities a can also lead to back pain and injuries and Dr. Josh Colling sworth is here to help. Your visit will start with a consultation and exam to determine your spinal health and pain level, along with a gathering of medical history and discussion of the best treatment plan for your unique situation, all while avoiding the risks of surgery and medication. Chiropractic adjustments are a safe, gentle and effective method of treatment for a number of injuries and conditions and can help you estab lish and maintain great spinal health so you can feel great all summer long.

THIS SUMMER THINK inside-out WITH CHIROPRACTIC DR. JOSH COLLINGSWORTH THRIVE PROACTIVE HEATLH

As a husband to a school teacher and parent of two young boys, while summers fill up fast, it is a great time to slow things down a bit for you and your family. The kids are out of school, the weather is warm and you are just hoping to get a family vacation, or at least a chance to rest and relax for a few days. Summer months usually mean we have a little bit more time on our hands. We don’t have to worry about helping our kids get their homework done or shuffling them from school activ ity to school activity. Amidst barbecues, vacations and maybe swimming lessons, which all compete for our attention, we can still get worn down to the point where we neglect our own health. The up--side is that nights are longer and more open, which actually makes summer one of the best times to prioritize self-care.

3. CHOOSE A BALANCED LIFESTYLE OF ACTIVITY AND RELAXATION! Summer is a season that brings relaxation to mind, but it is usually bustling with activity. Be sure to alternate between active and relaxed events so you have a chance to fully enjoy the season. It’s also important to slow down a bit and enjoy summer free of exhaustion, or even the pain of injury. To help you and your family have a great summer, focus on the following: eating healthy, drinking plenty of water, stretching, and taking advantage of a summer nap every now and then.

CONNECTOR MAGAZINES 15

INSPIRED MEDIA | AUGUST 202216 ANNUAL virginia beach fallen heroes EVENT KICKS OFF SEPT 10

JOIN JOIN US IN PROVIDING SUPPORT AND ASSISTANCE TOTHE FAMILIES OF FALLEN NAVAL SPECIAL WARFARE OPERATORS (SEALS), SPECIAL BOAT OPERATORS, AND SUPPORT PERSONNEL.

David Jaffe VBFH Freedom Ride to Freedom Fest Chairman

The VBFH is proud to have teamed up with The UDT/ SEAL Foundation and the National Navy SEAL Museum to raise money to help the SEALS and their families. We have also donated money to Spike’s K9 Fund to buy a vest and pay medical bills for a Virginia Beach Police K9 Officer, to SEALKIDS, Inc. to help families that need educational assistance. Our combined efforts over the years have raised $957,000 to assist local military families. This year we ex panded our charter to include First Responders and Virginia Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad. We understand that unfortunate events happened to the brave heroes who unselfishly defend our freedoms. Their sacrifices sometimes come at the cost of their very lives and this is a small way to honour them by contributing to their families’ well-being. Our mission is to provide support and assistance to Virginia Beach Naval Special Warfare, First Re sponders and other branches of the military. Check us out at vbfh.org OR facebook.com/VBFallenHeroes/

The annual Freedom Ride event kicks off at Ballyhoo's! We will have the VBFD escorting us from Ballyhoo's Restaurant on Great Neck Rd to the main event at Camp Pendleton. Preregistration is avail able on the Facebook page as well as a ride waiver to print and sign in advance to help speed up the registration. All riders will get a t-shirt, kick stand plate and helmet sticker while supplies last and we will have Chikfil-a biscuits available also while supplies last. Cost is $65 per person, the same price as the Freedom Fest event ticket. Registration starts at 10 am and we will be kick stands up (KSU) at approximately 12:15. We will also have a group of bagpipers at both the ride kick off and the main event. Thanks so much for your support!

Virginia Beach Fallen Heroes (VBFH) is a group of volun teers from Virginia Beach, VA and the surrounding com munities. VBFH members have come together to dedicate their time and efforts to raise money for the families of our fallen Naval Special Warfare Operators (SEAL), Special Boat Operators, and support personnel. On August 6, 2011, an elite team of SEALs, Army Special Operations aviator and a service dog were aboard a Chi nook helicopter – call sign Extortion 17 – was shot down in Afghanistan while on a mission to rescue U.S. troops pinned down in combat. All 38 men aboard and the dog were killed.This tragedy rocked the local Naval Special Warfare community prompting the formation of a volunteer group to raise money for immediate family support (the original VBFH crew). In just FIVE weeks VBFH put on its first event & ended up with $60,000 in donations to benefit the Navy SEAL Foundation. The VBFH never looked back.

CONNECTOR MAGAZINES 17 SUPPORT SEALKIDS AT VIRGINIA BEACH FALLEN HEROES FREEDOMFEST ELITE DOGS FOR ELITE PEOPLE Even our bravest individuals need support, and we are here for their children. SEALKIDS has a deep and personal understanding of life in the Naval Special Warfare (NSW) community and can help their children overcome academic struggles. Our proven programs lead to success in school, which translates to success in life. At the Frog Dog K9 compound we have created a setting where veterans can come and do what they are comfortable doing navigating obstacles, shooting, rappelling, fishing, swimming, and spending time with dogs frogdogk9.com Jim PRESIDENTDenning the Virginia Beach Fallen Heroes Board of Directors Aries Lynch VICE PRESIDENT Jim SECRETARYHughes BUY tickets online vbfh.org/tickets@ ALL proceeds go to Local charitiesSEAL Linda TREASURERStephens Byron OPERADIRECTORMaddenOFTIONS Charity COMMUNITYENTERTAINMENTMadden&AFFAIRS a BIG thanks to ALL of our sponsors LOOK at how much fun this was last year! board of directors see you there! FROG DOG K9 Meet ARIES LYNCH NAVY(retired)SEAL

" AUCTION

ABOUT

AIMEE BRUCE

ARTIST extraordinaire aimee bruce HIGHONYOURSUPPLYAKA

AllBRUCEproceeds go

Aimee Bruce's hard-earned reputation for producing beautiful, unique art that makes a statement some times subtle, sometimes not-so-subtle sets her apart and makes her one of the area's most sought-after artists. Her murals and personal art will move you and make you think. Her diverse perspective makes her art appealing to a wide demographic. Look around for Aimee's work on display in Virginia. Aimee Bruce is a versatile artist whose work ranges from colorfully cute to magi cally morbid. Her vibrant energy has been described as infectious by her colleagues and peers. She received her BFA with a concentration in drawing and design at Old Dominion University in 2016. Bruce currently works throughout Hampton Roads VA painting murals and other art commissions for her clients. If you'd like to commission Aimee to create a unique piece of art for you, contact her highonyoursupply@gmail.comat: THE COVER "We Want You!" This patriotic piece was created by AIMEE BRUCE exclusively for our cover Aimee-BrucecomFOLLOWAimeeonsocialmedia@ highonyoursupply & SIGNING The original artwork from our cover will be auctioned at Freedomfest's silent auction Bid on the original artwork, signed by the artist herself AIMEE to Local SEAL charities

AUGUST 2022

My inspiration for my personal work currently revolves around the concept of ephemerality. I incorporate this concept into my work in the form of living flora and fauna juxtaposed with decaying and skeletal remains. I’ve al ways been fascinated by themes of life, death, and renewal. I tend to drift between different mediums such as acrylics, printmaking, ink, collage, watercolor, oils, and digital. I find it helps being versatile in a handful of medi ums to fight off the dreaded artist block. People often ask me what my tag is in reference to in hopes of getting an obvious answer. I, HIGHONYOURSUPPLY, advocate the time and effort one puts forth towards their creative endeavors. Like a form of self love, people should be stoked about what they create so they can feel high on their supply! Through this, I hope to spread positivity and support throughout my creative communities.

ArtisttheAbout

CONNECTOR MAGAZINES 19 MAGENTA LINE COLLAB 3,000 sq ft Rick Nickel Collaboration Nauticus Pier, Norfolk VA SWEET PEA Acrylic on Canvas commissioned art FRIDA FLAVOR 2021 Ocean's Ole’ Virginia Beach VA SANDBRIDGE WILDLLIFE 2019 Princess Anne Rec. Center Virginia Beach VA AcrylicMOON on Canvas commissioned art BEST DigitalLIFEIllustration commissioned art

CONNECTOR MAGAZINES 21 GREATARENEIGHBORHOODSGREATMADEUPOFNEIGHBORS. It's people who make great neighborhoods great. That's why over 70% of REALTORS volunteer in their communities. Let's find a great neighborhood for you. ®

BUZZ what's all the ?

SOLAR IS NOT A FAD OR A PASSING TREND Dominion is required to go 100% renewable for its energy production by 2035 and is already investing ratepayers’ money into achieving that requirement. Yes, that means you are already investing in solar. It also means Dominion is benefiting as the owner of these solar systems that you are paying for. Yes, it’s possible for you to still reap the economic benefits of installing your own solar power plant on your home and cut Dominion (mostly) out. Going solar is not only beneficial for the envi ronment, but also beneficial to your finances. Having a smaller carbon footprint by going solar does feel good, but there is major benefit in being able to fix your electricity rate for the next 20+ years instead of being subjected to the con tinual rate increases and standard inflation that comes with the monopoly-run electric company.

STILL, THE SOLAR INDUSTRY IS FAIRLY NEW TO THE EAST COAST, SO WE WANT TO HELP POSI TION YOU TO UNDERSTAND SOME OF THE MOST IMPORTANT THINGS IN THE WORLD OF SOLAR. NOT EVERY HOMEOWNER CAN SWITCH TO SOLAR When your system is designed, you want to be sure your Total Solar Resource Frac tion (TSRF) percentage is at least above 50% for that roof side. Statistics show that only about 25% of Virginia homes will qualify.

SRECs These are Solar Renewable Energy Certificates, and can be tough to set up, but if you go with a company working with an SREC broker, they will get you set up to GET PAID for producing power. In summary, switching to solar power can be one of the best ways you can be more indepen dent from, and actually get paid by, Dominion. This protects you from random rate increases and the steady and increasing inflation.

In order to ensure that you will have a fixed elec tricity rate, you must ask the question of cost to setting up own your system. Every company talks about the cost to purchase a solar system, but rarely do they speak of what it could cost you down the road. Cost of ownership comes in the form of lost production, micro-fractures, maintenance costs, and warranty claims. Read ing the warranty is important, as these costs to own your system affect the price you pay each month, long term. Look for a zero cost of ownership system, regardless of upfront system cost. Who is doing the installation? With the surge in solar companies in the market comes a surge of people signing on to work for them. Are your installers W-2 employees or are they 1099 (independent subcontractors) and posing a risk to you, the homeowner? It’s important to know if you could be pursued in the case of injury, or worse, on your property. It’s also crucial to know if the installers are certified by the manufacturer of your panel to install your particular panels, as this directly affects the solar panel warranty. Most solar systems are sold based on offsetting your electricity bill. Ask to see how the com pany came up with your production numbers and how they warranty those numbers. Is it an estimate or is production warrantied?

SOLARABOUT INSPIRED MEDIA | AUGUST 202222

THE TOPIC OF SOLAR SYSTEMS IS POPPING UP EVERYWHERE! OUR NEIGHBORS HAVE THEM ON THEIR ROOFTOPS; INTERNET AND TV ADS ARE EVERYWHERE; SOLAR COMPANIES ARE KNOCKING ON OUR DOORS. BY NOW, MOST OF US IN HAMPTON ROADS KNOW THAT SOLAR IS HERE TO STAY IN VIRGINIA.

INCENTIVES IN VA Net metering is where you produce power, use the grid to store it, and then it is sent back to you as needed. In Virginia, our net metering gives full credit to homeowners producing power, as opposed to other places where homeowners using the grid for energy storage receive a 2:1 ratio, for example.

SEAN P. WHELAN U.S. AIR SCANFORCEME!

FEDERAL TAX CREDIT The federal govern ment is aiding homeowners in swapping to cleaner energy production by paying them back 26% of the system in the form of credit or de posit, depending on your tax situation (whether you usually owe money or receive a refund).

BOTTOM LINE?: Make sure you aren’t going to experience a cost of ownership and that you see in writing that the promises made to you are going to be fulfilled years down the line. By ALEXANDRANorfolkURRUTIANative

Choose the company that will keep their prom ises to you. Hampton Roads has seen an uptick in saturation of solar companies that seem to have come out of the woodwork recently. This is because Virginia has some major incentives for homeowners to switch their electric bill to solar vs. the coal, nuclear, natural gas, and oil that Dominion has primarily used. With so many options comes the need to know who will be keeping the promises made to you for 20+ Askyears.how the warranty process is handled; who will be pursuing manufacturer product warran ties; what happens if a panel drops in produc tion by 50% ten years down the road, and if your panel will be replaced if it starts producing at 5% capacity? All of these questions can be answered by look ing at the warranty itself. Insist on this.

4. Choose a method…to avoid madness! Whether you follow the Mari Kondo method, as Kit did, or some other organizational guru’s, taking a methodical approach to downsizing can help you feel in control of a process that can be…well…see #5.

For more tips on downsizing or a current market assessment of your home’s value, give me a call! MAGAZINES

8. Decide how you want your things disposed of. Some things (e.g., items worn out or broken beyond repair) are obviously dumpster-bound. Others may have value to some one else. Are you interested in making some money? Consider rummage sales or resale shops. Feeling charitable? Goodwill or other charities use your donated items to do good in the world. Do you think an item, particularly a sentimental one, might be meaningful to a friend or family member? Make it a gift.

I digress back to the real estate stuff the next few pages have specific Salem Lakes information about what s happened in January and February. As this is our first edition in April, I won’t have March information until you ’re reading this. But if you have any specific questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I really hope that this will be a joyful magazine. I have a couple of fun kid pages. I’d also like to highlight folks. If you know of someone who has done something kind, I’d love to recognize them. For example, right now I’d like to shout out to owners who live at 3813 Big Bear Ct.! They are always so kind to leave a bowl of water out for the dogs when we walk them. It ’s especially wonderful on the hot days. Charlie & Basil thank you! Also, recently I’ve noticed a little library on the circle across the street from Damson. Grab a book and sit on the throne. Not sure who set this up, but it’s awesome and adorable. Thank you!

THOUGHTS

3. Recruit a partner. Maybe a spouse or other family member, a friend, or hire someone. It helps to have someone working alongside you, as long as you get final say in what to toss or keep.

KellySellz@remaxvb.com(757)572-9537

CONNECTOR

6. Don’t be afraid to spend money. Hiring an expert organizer, buying a purpose-built photo scanner, using an auction firm all of these things cost money. They are also an investment in more easily achieving your goal.

My dear college friend Kit Behling and her husband knew they had too much stuff in too large of a house. For years they couldn’t seem to do anything about it until early retirement and the pandemic led to a radical decision: sell their 3,500 sq ft, 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom bungalow, and move into a 250 sq. ft. trailer (yes, you read that right!) so they could travel the US in an RV they christened The Rigamaroll. With that lifestyle change in their future, they had to get serious about downsizing. Here are their tips for facing down the downsizing demon:

9. Reward yourself all along the way! Whether it’s a shelf, a closet, or a whole basement, celebrate each area cleared. By downsizing, you get yourself closer to your goal. AND you give a gift to children or other family members who otherwise might have to downsize on your behalf at a future date. Make room in your life for a new future, one unencumbered by no-longer-useful possessions. Don’t delay start today!

Brought to you by KELLY AllianceRE/MAXKLAERSREALTOR®

5. Prepare yourself...for tears, indecision, anguish, even some regrets. Downsizing means disposing of things that hold mem ories, both lovely and painful. The process can elicit a range of emotions and be exhausting, physically and mentally. So treat yourself kindly.

1. Visualize the goal. Whether it’s moving to that condo on a golf course, or into a 55+ community, or just clearing out the garage where you live right now, picture your goal. Feel how good the change will be. Write it down or take a picture of it, then post it somewhere so you see it every day. Why? Because downsizing is hard work. You’ll feel like quitting sometimes. Visualizing your goal keeps you motivated.

7. Not sure whether to keep or toss? Ask yourself questions like these: Was the last time I used this over a year ago? If I get rid of it, can it be easily replaced? Will I no longer need it in my new future? If you answer yes, then that’s an item for the dispose pile.

2. Set a deadline. Self-imposed or external and schedule time to downsize. Nothing focuses effort like a deadline, even when you make it up!

OF DOWNSIZING GETTING YOU DOWN?

A few years ago I started the Facebook.com/Salem Lakes 411 page. Feel free to add fun things that we can share with each other. Lastly, I’d like to introduce my go to lender, Jonathan Haug! Jonathan Haug has been a Senior Mortgage Consultant with Prosperity Home Mortgage since 2008. He is proudly ranked in the Top 1% of all Mortgage Originators in America. Jonathan assists clients with their residential mortgage needs in Virginia, North Carolina, and Maryland. He prides himself on being a local, experienced and professional mortgage specialist. Thousands of homeowners have chosen Jonathan to assist them with their mortgage financing needs. Jonathan is dedicated to providing you with paramount customer service and great terms while finding the personalized solution that meets your home buying or refinancing needs. He has called Hampton Roads home for the over 20 years and is an alumni of Virginia Tech. Jonathan, his wife, Rachel, and two sons currently reside in Norfolk with their dog, Penny. NRMLS ID 246016 If there’s anything I can do to help you or get you any specific information about your home, please don t hesitate to give me a call at 757 572 9537. Thank you for your time and I hope you will enjoy receiving the Salem Lakes Connector!

INSPIRED MEDIA | AUGUST 202224 CALENDAR OF & LOCAL MARKETPLACEEVENTS august East Coast ChampionshipSurfing Surfecsc.com submit YOUR event for free! Virginia Beach Funkfest Beach Party LIVEonAtlantic.com 757-385-7873 Ynot Wednesdays? Sandcenter.org 757-385-2787 september American Music Festival LIVEonAtlantic.com 757-385-7873 october Biplanes & Triplanes Airshow Militaryaviationmuseum.org Africana Virginia Beach Boardwalk Festival Africanavirginiabeach.com 757-324-3694 Virginia Beach Craft Beer Festival LIVEonAtlantic.com 757-385-7973 Halloween Town & Treat Vabeachtowncenter.com 757-965-5452 BenefitFreedomFestforFamilies of Fallen Heroes VBFH.org Freedom Ride to FreedomFest Benefit for Families of Fallen Heroes VBFH.org Neptune's Fall Wine Festival Neptunesfestival.com 757-498-0215 Neptune BoardwalkFestivalWeekend Neptunefestival.com 757-498-0215 VISIT: visitvirginiabeach.comFor the most current info on Virginia Beach eventsALL events subject to change.

CONNECTOR MAGAZINES 25 We love promoting local events! Submit your event for our next issue MICHELLE WESTBERRY (757) 567-9354 Through thrift, Causeway Academy will provide students K thru 5th grade who are diagnosed with devel opmental disabilities, emo tional disturbance, specific learning disabilities or other health impairments with academic support to equip and navigate them through continued education. SHOE D RIVE thru 9/15 ENROLL YOUR CHILD TODAY We want your shoes! We need your help! for dropoff locations: causewayacademy.org visit the websiteDr. Andrea Brown (757)DONATE401-5444YOUR SHOES Every pair of gently worn, used and new shoes you donate to our shoe drive fundraiser turns into funds for our cause. CONTACT Dr. Brown for more info on en rollment, registration & dropoff spots. Militaryaviationmuseum.org Beach Africanavirginiabeach.com Treat Vabeachtowncenter.com november Virginia Beach Christmas Market Emgshows.com Holiday Lights Merry Mile LIVEonAtlantic.com 757-385-7973 december Holiday Parade At The Beach LIVEonAtlantic.com 757-385-7973 Last Night On The Town Lastnightonthetown.com 757-490-7812 Holiday Lights Merry Mile LIVEonAtlantic.com 757-385-7973 Whales and Wildlife Virginia Aquarium Sea Adventure Virginiaaquarium.com 757-385-3474 Rudee Tours Winter Wildlife Cruise Rudeetours.com 757-425-3400

INSPIRED MEDIA | AUGUST 202226 unique &beautiful summer home decor pillows ♦ silk plants ♦ & more TOPIARIES & FLORAL DESIGNS HOME DECOR & FURNITURE GIFTS + CANDLESCHRISTMAS&SCENTS + MAISON BERGER Topiaries carries hundreds of different lines, many of which have landed on Oprah’s famous "O" list, such as Votivo & much more. Owner Sharon Ballance is honored to continue serving local patrons who have been inspired since 1993 by the creative ideas & treasures of founder Gail Arnold. Drop in & say hello to Sharon! HOURS Mon-Sat 10-5 SUNDAYSCLOSED301 - 25TH St, Ste 9, Virginia Beach VA ♦ (757) 437-1183 The public is welcomed to view the 5th Annual Mural Festival this August 19-28, 2022. A total of 10 new murals will be painted by 10 different national and local artists at private properties through the arts district during the same 10 day period. This community-building project is the perfect fit for social-dis tancing, stimulating our local creative community with paid artist stipends and providing the public ample time to explore the district to watch the artists while they work. FOR THE MOST CURRENT INFO: vibecreativedistrict.org/mural-festival/ STAY TUNED FOR THIS YEAR'S LINEUP! AVAILABLE SOON YOUR INSURANCEHOMETOWNGROUP — SPECIALIZING IN MEDICARE COVERAGE FOR OUR NEIGHBORS IN & HAMPTONAROUNDROADS DALE S. WHITE FREE Consultation (757) 650-2500 daleswhite@integritymedicareva.com NO COMMITMENT FREE healthcare assessment Medicare explained in clear terms to help you understand ALL coverage available to help meet your unique healthcare needs Medicare approved grocery benefits under certain conditions for 2022. I am very grateful to have helped hundreds of Medicare beneficiaries obtain thousands of dollars worth of groceries this year. Please contact me to see if I can help you. Tickets The

CONNECTOR MAGAZINES 27 SAVINOAGENCY Monica.Savino@757.581.6472Goosehead.com insurancePersonalizedsolutionswith40+carriers Scan Now to RunOnline!Quotes "The customer service that Monica provided was outstanding. The level of effort that she put in made me feel like a truly valued customer! " Wes K. Proudly Produced By:Tickets and Info The Longest Continuously Run Surf Championship In the World Vans Pro QS 3000 BMX and Skate Coastal Edge Vendor Village Boardwalk Marketplace Pool Parties BeachAmateurVolleyballSurf ECSC Legends Presentation Food Vendors Coastal Edge Mr. & Miss ECSC

Tickets$75 21+only Hosted by Cape Henry Rotary Foundation The 38th Annual SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2022 BALLYHOOS1PM-6PMRESTAURANToystercrush.com 21+ over only VIRGINIA MOCA BOARDWALK ART SHOW 2022 21-23OCT 66TH ANNUAL The Boardwalk Art Show takes place on the boardwalk between 24th & 32nd streets @ the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. Now in its 66th year, the Virginia MOCA Boardwalk Art Show is one of the only outdoor art shows pro duced by an accredited museum and strives to have the highest caliber fine art in the relaxing setting of the Virginia Beach Boardwalk. Ranked as a top 15 Fine Art Show of the Decade by Sunshine Artist magazine, this three-day festival welcomes nearly 200 artists from around the country, featuring fine art across several mediums. SCHEDULE OF EVENTS: Friday, October 21, 2022, 10 AM – 5 PM Saturday, October 22, 2022, 10 AM – 5 PM Sunday, October 23, 2022, 10 AM – 4 PM VIP BEACH CLUB The premier location of the art show, the VIP Beach Club in 31st Street Park. Beach Club ticket holders enjoy lunch, custom cocktails & live en tertainment. The club features lounge seating, free valet parking, outdoor games & complimentary wine and bour bon tastings throughout the weekend. BEACH CLUB SCHEDULE: Friday and Saturday, 11 AM–4 PM Sunday, 11 AM – 3 PM FREE FAMILY PARK Bring the entire family to 24th Street Park for free activities on Saturday and Sunday including free pumpkin picking, art kits, face painting, balloon animals & rotating performances from local youth and performance groups. Sat & Sunday, 12 PM–4 PM

CONNECTOR MAGAZINES 29 CONTACT US ABOUT YOUR UP COMING EVENT OR SEND IN YOUR EVENT PHOTOS TO: OFFICE @CONNECTORMAGAZINES.COM Jesse Chong performing @ New Realm Brewing Company Sam Koch , Jake Maines, Michelle Westberry & Randy DeMille network ing @ The Shack Oceanfront Michelle Westberry, David Nygaard & Louis Costa hangin' out @ Vibrant Shore Brewing Company Spencer Glatt @ Ocean Eddie's Oceanfront over the 4th of July serves the cold brews up right! Thanks for the excel lent service, Spencer! We'll be back! Sheri Bailey & Michelle Westber ry enjoy lunch and reminisce about the June JuneteenthMagazineConnectorarticleon locallivensbandupbrewery!the local

Past president of Shore Drive Communi 30 INSPIRED MEDIA | AUGUST 2022 NEPTUNE’S 7TH ANNUAL COASTAL CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL Sat, Aug27th, 1-6pm, 31st Street Park Over 60 beers from 30 brew eries, live music, food trucks & more 48TH ANNUAL NEPTUNE FESTIVAL BOARDWALK WEEKEND Fri -Sun, Sep 30 - Oct 2 2nd-33rd St, on the Boardwalk. 2022 marks the 48th anniversary for the Virginia Beach Neptune Festival! Every year, over 400,000 people cele brate at the festival. Daily concerts on festival stages are scattered along 30+ blocks of the boardwalk and feature 20+ performances from local, regional, and national recording artists. Over 225 artisans display handmade work at an Art & Craft Show that has been ranked #5 out of 200 Fine Art and Design Shows across the country. 22 magnificent sand sculptures created by world-renowned international sculptors at Neptune's International Sandsculpting Champi onship are on display. Other weekend events include Neptune's 8k Race, Grand Parade, Surfing Classic, Atlantic Regatta, Youth Art Show, and more! NEPTUNE FESTIVAL SENIORS GALA Wed, Sep 7, 6-9pm Virginia Beach Convention Center A night of dinner and dancing for Hampton Roads senior citizens! Welcoming the return of this beloved event, the Seniors Gala hosts over 600 senior citizens and will sell out. Contact the Neptune Festival office for reser vations today! NEPTUNE’S 25TH ANNUAL FALL WINE FESTIVAL Sat-Sun, Sep 10-11, 12-5pm 31st Street Park Over 60 wines from 16 Virginia wineries, live music, food trucks, & more SYMPHONY BY THE SEA CONCERT SERIES Thu, Aug 11, 18, 25; Sep 8 Free concerts in 31st St. Park! Featuring Virginia Symphony Orchestra &Symphonicity

As for storm preparations, I know what works for me and prepare to the level that allows me to be comfortable. For your preparations, it’s your decision and your comfort level. In your preparations, be aware that this city’s water supply and sewage systems may be vulnerable if the power grid fails. In Virginia Beach, electric pumps bring us our water and replenish the water towers. Without this replenishment, we lose our water pressure and our supply. Additionally, without electricity, our sewage sub-stations located throughout the city will not operate. Most sub-stations have backup power in case of a power loss, but these substations require refueling. Knock out our power, flood our roads, or make them impass able with debris, we could have problems. To the credit of our city and Mother Nature, we have not lost water or sew age service, of record, for any extended period of time. Without power for several days, our city water and sewage systems could be compromised. For essential planning and your comfort, consider buying a hand pump water filter ($69$400), an outdoor screened 10’ x 10’ enclosure ($125) or tent to sleep in, some blue plastic tarps to cover a hole in your roof (and some roofing nails), and the other obvious items (flashlights, batteries, stove, charcoal, first aid kit, food, etc.). Keep track of your home and car insurance policy paperwork, have a form of identification (to get back into your neighbor hood), house and car keys (if you can’t open your garage door), a list of important telephone numbers, two suitable buckets with appropriate seat covers for potties, and any other items you might find essential following a major storm, flood, or power outage. Please be safe out there and use common sense. You are not a lumberjack so don’t be cutting down or clearing trees without experience. Downed electrical lines should ALL BE CONSIDERED HOT! Don’t improperly plug an emergency generator into your house, or try running it with the wrong type extension cords. Keep your gasoline engine equipment far from (or downwind of) your sleeping areas. A dull axe is always dangerous. And wading through flood waters can give you a very serious rash, or worse. Guide books with more information are available at many sources: vaemergency.gov, Central Library and many local hardware and grocery stores. Even preparing with just the basics will make your storm recovery easier and less eventful. USN

If a potential hurricane was possible for your area, how would you prepare ? We can play math games all day, but our ability to accurately predict danger is still a “best guess.” Ask any weatherman about forecasting rain. What are your risks and how much do you balance that risk with the cost and time to prepare? I’ve been the spokesman giving the “time to prepare” discussion to many groups in the past. It is similar to teaching Sunday School; valuable, needed, but not necessari ly retained. For storm preparations, many will prepare “later.”

by David Williams David Williams is a long-time resident of Vir ginia Beach, along with his wife of 51 years. He is the past President of Shore Drive Community Coalition and has contributed significant planning efforts to both civic and military establishments in areas related to natural and man-made threats.

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(retired) Strategic Planner 31 TRI-CO ▶ TREE REMOVAL ▶ TREE PRUNING ▶ CRANE SERVICE ▶ STUMP REMOVAL INTEGRITY FOR CONSULTATION CALL STEVEN GRIFFIN XANDER SHIELD (757) 381-3313 (757) 778-3884 LICENSED ▶ BONDED ▶ INSURED WATER EVERYWHERE? HURRICANE TALK

Jonathan Haug Senior Mortgage Consultant NMLS#: 246016 Office: 757-374-1541 Cell: jonathanhaug.phmloans.comjonathan.haug@phmloans.com757-374-1541 800 Laskin Road Virginia Beach, VA 23451 All first mortgage products are provided by Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC. (877) 275-1762. Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC products may not be available in all areas. Not all borrowers will qualify.Licensed Department of Financial Protection and Innovation under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. Licensed by the Delaware State Bank Commissioner. Massachusetts Mortgage Lender License by the NJ Department of Banking and Insurance. Also licensed in AK, AL, AR, AZ, CO, CT, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NE, NC, ND, NH, NM, NV, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, WI, WV and WY. NMLS #75164 (NMLS Consumer Access at http://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/) ©2022 Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC. All Rights Reserved. KELLY RE/MAXKLAERSAlliance REALTOR® VA & NC JONATHAN HAUG SENIOR NMLSRCONSULTANTMORTGAGEID:246016 $5.95 COMPLIMENTS OF: KELLY KLAERS & JONATHAN HAUG Cell: 757-374-1541 ♦ Office: 757-374-1541 ♦ Fax: 877-259-7541 jonathan.haug@phmloans.com | 644 Grassfield Parkway, Ste 28, Chesapeake VA Competitive rates and fees Mortgage Consultants with extensive knowledge of your local Knowledgemarketand expertise on available mortgage products Prompt and thorough communication Dedication to exceptional customer service for your unique needs from start to finish Prosperity Home Mortgage, LLC, is a full service mortgage banker specializing in residential and refinance loans. Prosperity Home Mortgage offers a wide range of mortgage products, including fixed and adjustable rate mortgages, jumbo loans, Federal Housing Administration (FHA), Veterans Affairs (VA) loans, and renovation financing. Lend Local. Prosper Local. your local realtor KellySellz@remaxvb.com | (757) 572-9537 "I pride myself on being a "relationship REALTOR®" a person who truly cares about other people. I strive to make every real estate transaction more than just an exchange of money and keys, but also a wonderful memory. How can I help you find the home of your dreams?