VIRGINIA CONNECTOR - NOV 2022 - SALEM LAKES/ROCK CREEK

KELLY

Jonathan Haug

Senior Mortgage Consultant

Hello Fellow Virginians!

What a great time of year it is here in Virginia. The leaves are changing, the traffic is minimal and the events are still going strong! In the last few months, we've been able to experience some major, successful charity events, such as the VBFH Freedom Fest, Causeway Academy Shoe Drive, R4L (Recovery for Life) Gala, ECSC (East Coast Surf Club), Ynot Wednesdays and so much more!

Special thanks to all of those amazing organizers who bring these events to our attention, as that's what the Virginia Connector is all about bringing attention to LOCAL that gives back!

Michelle Westberry

Here in Virginia, the residents give back so much all year round, but November is special. We have Veterans Day, Support Small Business Day and Thanksgiving! We hope everyone gets to spend special time with their loved ones, and time to reflect on those we've lost. This is the time of year that our hearts seem to overflow with the desire to give back and nobody does that better than Virginians.

A special thanks to our Artist of the Month, Tonya Hopson, for the beautiful covers! If you aren't familiar with Tonya's work, be sure to visit the Artists Gallery in the ViBe District. She is one of many talents from right here in Virginia!

Connector

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communities one neighborhood at a time

Last but not least, remember to set your clocks back before you go to bed on Saturday, Nov. 5th (yea! it's the last year for falling back!). You'll want to remember to do that so you make it on time to some of the fun events brought to you inside this issue. With the holidays right around the corner, its time to shop and eat and drink and socialize (rinse and repeat!) and even treat ourselves a little after a hard year's work!

PET COMPANIONSHIP HEALTH BENEFITS & HEALING POWER

Stay Cool. Stay Humble. Stay VB Strong!

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

OWNER/PUBLISHER Michelle Westberry EDITOR IN CHIEF GRAPHIC DESIGN COORDINATOR Dana Grizzél

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Special thanks to ourLocal Experts

HOME IMPROVEMENT

CRAWL SPACES & BASEMENTS

Tom Jackson CRAWLSPACE MEDIC (757) 500-9045

crawlspacemedic.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT FLOORING George Bunch TIDEWATER FLOORING (757) 524-4433 tidewaterflooring.com

MARKETING — DIGITAL

David Stinson DIGITAL NATION USA (304) 282-5509

david@digitalnationusa.com digitalnationusa.com

PETS ANIMAL HOSPITAL

ABBEY ANIMAL HOSPITAL Robin A. Knopp DVM ♦ (757) 478-1649 AbbeyAnimal.com

REAL ESTATE Kelly Klaers

RE/MAX Alliance REALTOR® VB & NC (757) 572-9537 ♦ KellySellz.com KellySellz@remaxvb.com

TRANSPORTATION COMMERCIAL Melissa Hedayatpoor MTM INTERNAT'L (407) 914-4866 ♦ shipMTM.com operations@shipMTM.com

Jonathan Haug Senior Mortgage Consultant NMLS#: 246016 Office: 757-374-1541 Cell: 757-374-1541 jonathan.haug@phmloans.com jonathanhaug.phmloans.com

John Marshall XPLORE SOLAR (540) 654-0793 john@xploresolar.com

CHOOSE

FIRST find out more about how to join our local roster of experts today!

To learn more about becoming a recognized Expert in Your Neighborhood contact MICHELLE WESTBERRY (757) 567-9354

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 magazines 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.

Your local neighborhood realtor

After reading the article here (based on information from the Hampton Roads Real Estate Information Network), you might be wondering if there’s any hope for you as a homeowner OR home seller, but I’m your good news! As many of you know, I’ve lived in our neighbor hoods since 1999. My kids went to school with your kids and we’ve been friends with many neighbors over the years. I’m now no longer simply known as Olivia’s or Aiden’s mom, but Kelly Klaers, hoping to be your next REALTOR®, if you haven’t already worked with me. I have over 14 years of experience with many accreditations and awards. I’m most proud of my recent accreditation of becoming a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES). I talked about this new designation in September’s Connector. If you didn’t happen to receive that issue at your home and would like to read about it, visit the article online at issuu.com/printandmailexperts/docs/cm-aug2022-kk-sl-rc-main_issue_32pgupload/8

The Rollercoaster That is the Current Mortgage Climate

KELLY KLAERS RE/MAX Alliance REALTOR®

AREA HOME PRICES SLOWLY FALLING

The median sales price (MSP) of residential real estate in the Hampton Roads region continues to decline ever so slowly. That’s good news for home buyers who are faced with rising mortgage rates.

After reaching an all-time high of $328,795 in May 2022, the MSP has dropped slightly each month since and was down by 4%, to $315,990 in August, according to data compiled by the Real Estate Information Network, Inc. (REIN). The multiple listing service (MLS) serving Hampton Roads re ported that year-over-year, the MSP is up nearly 6.4%, from $297,000 in August 2021.

The falling prices locally are in-line with what is happening across much of the nation.

With inventory still being limited, prices are still higher than they might otherwise be, especially considering inflation and the increase in mortgage rates.

The MSP for August has risen by 23.9% over the past four years. In August 2019, the MSP was just $255,000.

IS A HOUSING CORRECTION UNDERWAY?

With such a large and rapid increase, it’s probably no sur prise that one of the more popular topics right now for real estate bloggers and news writers is whether the market will “correct” itself, and if so, when?

By most definitions, a real estate market correction occurs when home prices drop by 10% from a peak within one year. A “real estate market crash” is usually defined as a 20% drop in one year.

Some parts of the nation do appear to be inching their way to a correction. In other parts, sales are down but prices continue to climb.

What’s the situation in Hampton Roads?

As previously mentioned, May 2022 had an all-time high MSP of $328,795. Thus, to track a “market correction,” May will serve as the peak and starting point in which prices whether dropping or climbing will be compared to.

SINCE MAY'S PEAK, FOLLOWING ARE THE MSP NUMBERS:

► June’s MSP was $325,750 a very slight drop of .92% from May

► July’s MSP was $322,500 1.0% drop from June

► August's MSP was $315,990 2% drop from July.

Comparing August to May, there has been a 3.89% decrease

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.

in the MSP over that four-month period. If a drop of 1% a month or more continues for the next nine months, that would indeed put us in “correction” mode. Even if prices jump back up a bit (without surpassing $328,795) or level off for a couple of months, a correction will have occurred if the MSP dips to about $295,900 by the end of April 2023. That would be a 10% drop over the course of one year.

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.

While very unlikely, a “crash” could occur if the MSP fell to about $263,036 by the end of April 2023 (without first rising higher than $328,795 and establishing a new starting point) and remained there.

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

Despite the recent record high MSP locally, prices in the Hampton Roads region remain below the national medi an, which the National Association of Realtors reported at $413,500 in the second quarter of 2022.

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!

572-9537

you for your time and I hope you enjoy receiving the Salem Lakes/Rock Creek Connector! KellySellz@remaxvb.com

featured ARTIST tonya hopson is passionate about IMPROVING the lives of displaced felines through art

My recent work has been primarily focused on floral and botanical acrylic paintings. My signature bold color and linework includes various subjects and techniques that I love to teach to others. Art has come naturally to me since childhood so to share my passion about art is a dream come true!”

Tonya has been involved in cat and kitten rescue groups in the Hampton Roads area for over 14 years. Her goal is to help improve the lives of displaced cats and kittens and reduce the feral cat popula tions by socializing outdoor-born and unwanted kittens for adoption into forever homes. She continues educating people of the impor tance of spaying, neutering, vaccinating, and becoming responsible pet owners. She works with or has been involved with the following organizations: Norfolk SPCA, Norfolk Animal Care and Adoption Cen ter, Billy the Kidden Rescue, Hope for Life, Lil’ Roar, VA Beach SPCA, Cat Rescue, Inc., Feral Affairs Network, No More Chasin’ Tails, Win ston’s March, PetSmart Charities and Catnip Café of Norfolk. Please consider supporting these organizations by adopting, volunteering, fostering, or donating your time and/or financial gifts. Tonya’s animal paintings are inspired by actual rescues. Photos are taken to help find a forever home for them. Once they are in forever homes, she paints their stylized, whimsical pet portraits!

Each organization is a non-profit with websites that have supply wish lists and donation links available specific to their needs and mission.

About the Artist

Tonya Hopson is an award-winning artist orig inally from Grand Haven MI. Growing up on a farm, she had little access to real art supplies until Middle School. Once exposed to the many possibilities, her talent and passion flourished. Nature, people, and animals are her favorite subjects to paint. Her early career choice was art therapy. She joined the U. S. Marine Corps, and active duty brought her to the Tidewater area. She currently resides in Norfolk VA, where she is active in the local art community partici pating in several art shows, exhibits, and com munity events. As a resident artist in-studio at The Artists Gallery in Virginia Beach (VBAC) and an associate artist at the d’Art Center in Norfolk, her art is often featured, and Tonya has art for sale at both locations.

I am blessed that my family has always support ed and encouraged me to pursue my dream of becoming an artist. My husband David, an extremely talented local musician, is the ‘audio’ to my ‘visual’ and collaborates with me on many school or art-related projects. My son Curtis and granddaughter Sophia, age 9, recently moved to Atlanta GA where the creativity continues. Through the magic of technology, Sophia loves to create art with Grandma. It fills my heart with joy to see the love of the arts passing to our next generation!

Our featured cover art is by

local artist TONYA HOPSON & digital design assistant

Matt Weimer (Barnyard Boards Coastal). The art was created ex clusively for Abbey Animal Hospital original acrylic painting will be presented to them.

Artist Tonya Hopson has a passion for creative expression! She enjoys art in all forms music, dance, theatre, reading, writing and sculpture. As a water media artist, she prefers painting primarily in acrylic and watercolor. Her subject matter is varied, while the thread that pulls her artwork together is bold color and linework. Exploring many techniques that include mixed media, palette knife and various textures continues her growth journey. She participates in many art shows, exhib its, and is actively involved in the art community and many local events. Tonya is a member of the following local organizations: Chesapeake Bay Art Association (CBAA), Chesapeake Bay Watercolorists (CBW), Suffolk Art League (SAL), Charles Taylor Center (HAL), and Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (VMOCA). She is also an art instructor, currently teaching private and group classes in acrylic and mixed media painting at the VBAC. Whenever possible she volunteers at Prime Plus Senior Center in Norfolk where she provides senior art therapy workshops.

CONNECTOR

RICO 16x20 acrylic painting of Tonya's son's rescue cat

FORT MONROE 24x36 acrylic painting purchased and permanently installed inside the Hampton Roads Convention Center

PURPLE DAHLIAS 24x24 acrylic painting inspired by Tonya's late mothers' floral gardens

OLIVIA 12x12 acrylic painting one of Tonya's rescue success stories

BREATH OF FIRE 24x36 acrylic painting inspired by the elements

vbspca.com

Shopping For Safe Pet Toys This Holiday Season

If your pet is on your holiday shopping list this year, you’re not alone. Pet products are incredibly popular, and there are plenty of options out there. While it can be fun to pick the cutest or silliest toy you can find, it is important to consider your pet’s safety when you are buying toys. Here are some things to keep in mind as you shop this holiday season.

SIZE Pick a toy that is appropriately sized for your furry friend. Small toys can be a choking hazard for larger pets, and large toys may be hard for a smaller pet to carry around.

POTENTIAL HAZARDS Even appropriately sized pet toys can be hazardous because of the way they are made. Things to look out for include “eyes” on soft toys, strings, ribbons, or any part of a toy that can easily be chewed o and ingested.

CHOOSING CHEWS Dogs naturally like to chew, but edible chews can be extremely dangerous. As your pup chews o pieces of the treat, it can get lodged in their throat or digestive tract. Carefully choose the size and shape of any edible chew, and only let your pet have it when you can watch them. If you’re looking for something you can leave

with your pets when you are not home, treat-dispensing toys can be a great option. You may also want to consider chew toys made of hard rubber, which are much less likely to become a choking hazard.

Once your pet has received their holiday gift, be sure to supervise them with their new toy. You’ll quickly realize whether your dog has a tendency to tear the stu ng out of soft toys and eat it or your cat often gets string or feathers stuck in their mouth. You may find that you have two categories of toys in your home: ones that can be left for your pet to play with at any time, and others that are put away and only used when under your close supervision to prevent any safety issues.

By thinking through your pet’s play behaviors and closely looking at the toys you buy, you’ll be able to enjoy playtime and worry less about unexpected trips to the veterinarian.

The VBSPCA Retail Center has a variety of pet safe products to choose from and the proceeds from your purchase will help provide a second chance to a homeless animal.

SUSTAINABLE FARMING is a tradition

IN THE VAUGHAN FAMILY

The Vaughan family has been farming and living on the same land since the early 1700s. For them, sustainable farming is not just a phrase, it is a way of life passed down from generation to now the 8th gen eration. Coastal Cattle has been named a Century Farm in Virginia, and now also a Bicentennial Farm and the Vaughan family is proud to still be actively farming.

The farm is located in the southern rural area of Virginia Beach, referred to as Pungo. This property is a land grant farm, granted to their family nine generations ago (in 1720) by the King of England, and is approximately 250 acres of pasture and hay ground used for the herd. They rotate graze on the pastures and have approximately 180 head of cattle raising 100% Hereford beef. The calves are on pasture 100% of their lives, and also fed grain for added marbling and finish. The grains fed to the cattle are a combination of spent grains from local breweries, distilleries and a home feed mix they produce on the farm.

Sustainable farming is a way of ensuring that the land, and all its resources, are maintained for future generations. Promoting soil health, managing water runoff and using natural fertilizing techniques are all ways that Coastal Cattle is being good stewards of their land. It protects and provides for their land and in turn provides for all of us.

This has always been a way of life for the Vaughans, but the business of Coastal Cattle began in 2014 the brainchild of their then-12-year-old daughter. She wanted to use her knowledge of cattle, gained through the local 4-H Livestock Club and start a herd. Her very first project steer, at the age of 10, was a Hereford and she instantly fell in love with the breed. They are docile, easy to work with, great for children to be around and of course beautiful!

She and her sister helped choose the first bred heifers and cows that started Coastal Cattle. The original idea was to start raising pure-bred show cattle to be used for the local area 4-H livestock shows, as well as other regional livestock competitions. Showing cattle is a lot of work and

Billy & Bernadette Vaughan understand the community's desire to know where their food is coming from

a lot of fun, but it wasn't long before the Vaughans started thinking bigger. By this time, they had about 30 cows and calves and needed to find an alternative. They were hearing the desires of so many people wanting to know where their food is coming from.

Expanding into the direct marketing of the beef produced by the ever- expanding herd was the natural progression of the farm.

Being in a mainly metropolitan area of Virginia Beach, it was a very closed market no one within 60 miles of the

To learn more about the farm or get information on Coastal Cattle's offerings & farm events visit: coastalcattle.com

Vaughan family

their land was oper ating a farm-to-table meat option, so the Vaughans saw an opportunity and ran with it. In June 2018, they processed their first retail cuts, then opened their retail store on the farm, The Meat Shack, in February 2019.

Crops and livestock go hand in hand. Incorporating rotation al grazing and the herd into their other farming practices has proven beneficial for the land and their farm.

Not only is Coastal Cattle producing a quality product for consumers, it protects our natural resources and fills a void within our community a savvy business choice and a sustainable-conscious model a win-win for everyone.

2337 Vaughan Rd Virginia Beach VA

People want to be in control of what they put into their bodies, and we quickly saw and understood the need for a good product.

"

SERVICE with a personal touch meet David Nygaard

David Nygaard's new business model means clients get added personal attention, one-of-a-kind pieces and save money on finely crafted custom jewelry. surprisingly affordable custom jewelry

When we say "Meet David Nygaard," we're being quite literal David wants to personally meet with you in a oneon-one consultation that will result in an exquisite, unique design you'll love, using gems and gold you might already have. David offers both custom design and cus tom RE design, which is nearly unheard of locally.

Carrying the distinctions of being a mas ter gemologist and diamond expert (as well as CAD and 3D printer master), David Nygaard is well-known for his award-win ning jewelry designs, his philanthropic efforts and his particular passion for working with couples in love to find that perfect wedding ring.

It gives me such pleasure to work with couples during such a magical time in their lives. There are few things I find more rewarding than the joy it brings to them as well.

At one time, David Nygaard operated seven different locations. His new busi ness model of focusing on custom jew elry affords him the time and ability to devote his complete attention to each piece to make it unique and special.

"With this new business model, custom jewelry becomes more affordable than you might think. Our custom piec es start at around $500.

Even though this talented jeweler pretty much has the only custom jew elry game in town, David makes sure everyone in town can afford his custom services.

Like most people, the past few years have been challenging for me, both personally and professionally. At this point in my career, I wanted to slow down, focus on one piece at a time, and allow the creative process to drive my business. I want to focus on what's important I knew that if I was going to keep doing what I loved...I needed to tailor my business

to fit my lifestyle, while still being able to care for my family and spend quality time with friends, yet continue to serve clients with the utmost integrity.

Within minutes of meeting David, it's clear that his passion for family, com munity and all things jewelry define him.

Being a jeweler isn't just a job it's a chosen path, and one he feels privileged to be on.

"With the holidays right around the corner, lots of couples will be getting engaged and I just want them to know that their neighborhood jeweler is still here and still excited about making their official engagement an even more beautiful memory with custom rings. Every time a couple chooses David Nygaard Fine Jewelers to design a beautiful piece that's as unique as their relationship (and one they will wear for years to come), I'm truly honored.

Fine Jewelers difference David Nygaard experience the

She said "Yes!" and now 'tis the season to start thinking about that perfect ring.

If you don't already know it, she's been thinking about this moment since she was five...that's a lot of pressure.

Oh, and she's going to want something that's unique and not only reflects her exquisite taste, but yoaur undy ing love for her.

Lucky for you, David Nygaard specializes in affordable custom jewelry.

at ABBEY ANIMAL HOSPITAL your pet is family

We believe in treating every patient as if they were our own pet, and giving them the same loving attention and care. We are a group of highly trained, experienced animal lovers who are devoted to giving our patients the best care possible.

Dr. knopp loves working with animals and helping them stay healthy and pain free, but what he loves just as much is the response he gets from helping a fellow human being.

"One always has to be aware that there is a human attached to the other end of that leash," he says. "If when I get to the end of my life and people grieve my passing as much as the passing of their pets…I will feel like my life was a success!"

He had always had a desire to own a veterinary clinic. In 1995, several clinics in the area went out of business, and Dr. Knopp and his wife happened to meet the widow of one of them and decided to purchase the clinic from her. It was a tough yet exciting time for the couple, but passion drove them and it wasn't long before they had things running smoother.

"The first year was quite the ride," he recalls. "It was like holding onto a tiger’s tail. You really did not know what was coming around the corner. We started with 400 8x10 cards as our 'client base.' This was back in the '90s and that was how records were kept prior to that. The business exploded and back then we opened up at 7:00 a.m. and many nights we were still there at 10:30 p.m. We didn’t know a lot of things about business so we figured we would work as hard as we could and let the numbers fall where they might! Lots of adrenalin was involved."

Abbey Animal Hospital's mission statement alone will tell you a lot about the owners and the hospital staff:

Our goal and policy is to treat our patients as we would treat our families, and to treat our clients’ pets as though they were our very own. We strive to lengthen and enrich the relation ship between owners and their pets, as they are the heart of our practice and the reason we are here. At all times, we promise both our clients and their pets will be treated with respect, dignity and compassion. Being of service to our community and its’ pets is an honor and the mission of our practice.

That's a lot to live up to, but by the looks of things they're not only backing their commitment but determined to operate with this same level of integrity.

Dr. Robin A. Knopp DVM Head Veterinarian & Owner

Their dedication to providing the highest level of veterinary medicine, along with providing friendly, compassionate service shows at every turn.

Abbey Animal Hospital is a team of highly trained profes sionals using state-of-the-art equipment and technology. With a genuine concern for their patients' health and well-being, they understand that they've set a precendent one that's worth upholding.

Their ideal client (a pet) can't really "refer them" to others, but their owners can, and Dr. Knopp understands that treating his clients' owners well is just as important as the care he gives their pets pets that are often considered to be chil dren to their loving owners.

"We rely upon word-of-mouth referrals more than anything else," Dr. Knopp says. "If pet owners are highly satisfied with the personalized care of their pets they will continue on as a part of Abbey's practice family and enjoy the lasting health and comfort of their pets. Then, what happens organically, is that they refer friends and family members to the practice."

MORE ABOUT DR. KNOPP

A native of Virginia, Dr. Knopp completed his undergrad uate education at Virginia Tech and received his Doctor ate of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Tennes see. His immediate family includes his wife Kathy, his three grown children: Allison, Christopher, Mark, and three granddaughters, Lia, Sophia and Gemma, as well as a house full of pets (not surprising, right?). Dr. Knopp never stops learning. He makes a point of regularly at tending continuing education courses to bring his clients and patients the most up-to-date medicine available.

Their pet children are, specifically: a Molaccan Cock atoo, three dogs, three cats and many exotic pets. Dr. Knopp & Kathy have also participated in the YFU foreign exchange student program for many years so they also have lots of 'other children' in Europe.

Kathy married Dr. Knopp in 1983 and has been with Abbey Animal Hospital since its inception. Their three grown children followed in their footsteps: Alli (works at Abbey Animal Hospi tal), Chris (a veterinarian in California), and Mark (a veterinary technician in New York). Their three beautiful granddaughters are the light of her life! Kathy loves being part of AAH and plans on being there as long as she is able.

Kathy graduated from University of Maryland with a Bachelor's Degree in Animal Science. She always wanted to be a veteri narian so being here at Abbey Animal Hospital is the next best thing. Kathy also attended NVCC to obtain her veterinary tech nician's degree.

When asked about their favorite things to do when they're not working, Dr. Knopp replies, "In the immediate area, we enjoy visiting the beaches. Exploring the water on a boat is always great fun, and the summer concerts are also something we like attending. Taking in a Tides baseball game or an Admiral hock ey game with the family is always a good time. We are also avid RVers and campers."

We also discovered that Dr. Knopp is a bit of a daredevil!!

When time allows, he enjoys spending time in the clouds (quite literally). He also enjoys riding his motorcycle. He explains that having his own plane helps shorten the miles for mission work throughout the country, under Dr. Knopp’s very own program, Wing and a Prayer.

Talulah, the loudest member of their pet family, enjoys attention and bask ing in the warm summer sun. She is also the biggest sucker for children!

Dr. Robin A. Knopp DVM & wife Kathy Knopp, LVT

5 tips

WHEN DEALING WITH FLIGHT CANCELLATIONS

1 PLAN AHEAD!

Take advantage of the tools out there to help you know as quickly as possible if a flight is cancelled. Flightaware.com is a great way to quickly check if your flight is cancelled or delayed. You can also use FlightRadar24.com, or the Flighty app.

2 BE CHOOSY ABOUT YOUR AIRLINE

Every airline is different, and depending on which one you choose, some may have more alternative flight opportunities in case of a cancellation. Typically, the more flights an airline has, the more likely they will be able to book you a new flight with the same or similar flight path. This might mean foregoing the cheaper option, however, so weigh your options.

3 UTILIZE GOOGLE FLIGHTS TO FIND

RE-BOOKING OPTIONS

Being notified of a cancellation can be discouraging, but you can immediately take action to see if there are other op tions available to you. Google Flights has an excellent search tool in place to help you find exactly what you are looking for with their wide database of available flights.

4

ELIGIBLE COMPENSATION

Contact your airline to see what they offer in these scenar ios. Depending on the situation, you may be able to receive compensation such as a refund, coverage for a hotel stay, or a voucher for future flights, so be persistent in finding out exactly what they offer. It could save you a lot of money!

5

The definition of " Vintage style " "Do things at your own pace Life's not a race "

USE A TRAVEL CREDIT CARD

Finding the right travel card could be an excellent way to acquire travel protection and earn a few points along the way. These cards can provide coverage in cases of flight and hotel costs, and even missing baggage. For example, the Chase Sap phire Preferred Card offers up to $500 in reimbursements for expenses like airfare, hotels, meals, etc. in the event of a delay of 12 or more hours.

Unfortunately, flight cancellations are unavoidable for many of us, but with these tips you can be more prepared to manage them and less stressed while you do.

Article reference: thriftytraveler.com/guides/what-todo-when-an-airline-cancels-your-flight/

M A G A Z I N E

TRAVELING CAN BE DIFFICULT ENOUGH AS IT IS, BUT WHEN FLIGHTS ARE AFFECTED, IT CAN REALLY PUT A DAMPER ON PLANS LET THE HEADACHES BEGIN!

TIPS FOR NAVIGATING TRAVEL PLAN INTERRUPTIONS WITOUT LOSING YOUR MIND!

family friendly

Good food, good fellowship, and plenty of fun is always in store for us over the Thanksgiving holiday. Why not shake things up a little this year by introducing some themed games. This year try some of these:

GAMES to liven up your Thanksgiving holiday

CONVERSATION STARTERS There are plenty of resources online for Thanksgiving, autumn, or general conversation prompts, with questions like “Name a teacher you are grateful for and why?” or “What was your favorite childhood book?” (and so on).

THANKSGIVING BINGO Everybody likes bingo! You can find down loadable Thanskgiving bingo cards at Crazylittleprojects.com. Print them out, use candy corn or other fall-themed candy to make fun markers for the bingo sheets. First one to win is the first one allowed to eat the candy they used as their bingo placemarkers!

THE "WHO DID IT" GAME — As guests arrive, have them write a paragraph with a funny or embarrassing story about themselves. Choose someone to read each paragraph aloud as everyone tries to guess which person the story is about. This is bound to bring laughter and make memories for years to come!

Article reference: thespruce.com/thanksgiving-games-for-kids-andfamilies-1356366

VETERANS DAY PARADE ANNUAL

DAY VETERANS

OUR MISSION:

To observe patriotic holidays, ceremonies, celebrations, and programs, through coordination with member organizations in the Hampton Roads area.

To support commemorations and memorials honoring veterans who have honorably served the nation.

To promote love of country and the nation’s flag.

To focus on imbuing patriotism in youth in the Hampton Roads area and beyond.

NOVEMBER 11, 2022

DAY ETERANS

THE SACRIFICE

THINGS WE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT VETERANS DAY:

TIDEWATER VETERANS DAY PARADE & CEREMONY

Beginning at 16th St and Atlantic Ave, heading north on Atlantic for one block, turning west on to Virginia Beach Blvd, north onto Baltic Ave, west on 19th St, passing the Tidewater Veteran’s Memorial and ending at Pavilion Dr.

NOVEMBER 11, 2022 9 - 11 AM

VETERANS DAY does NOT have the same meaning as MEMORIAL DAY

VETERANS DAY honors those who served our country dead or alive though largely honors living veterans, whereas MEMORIAL DAY is a time to remember those who gave their lives defending our country.

VETERANS DAY DOES have the same meaning as ARMISTICE DAY It was originally considered the commemoration of the end of World War I. After World War II and the Korean War, it became an official holiday, set aside to honor all American veterans.

Networking

pm

The biggest & best Networking Happy Hour in the 757!

Each month, professionals of all ages and walks of life come together to eat, drink & mingle!

Networking Happy Hours are a low-key, no agenda, meet new people/catch up with old friends type of event.

SWING BY FOR A FEW MINUTES OR HANG OUT THE WHOLE TIME!

FIRST WEDNESDAY of every month at a different bar/restaurant in the area

MARK YOUR CALENDARS !

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY ALWAYS HELD THE SATURDAY AFTER THANKSGIVING

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES THIS HOLIDAY SHOPPING SEASON

In 2010, small businesses around the nation began coming together on this day to encourage communities to “shop small” for the holidays.

Many of these small businesses offer special dis counts, open houses and other events on Small Business Saturday.

The ViBe Creative District is preparing for their 7th Annual Celebration. Updates are posted on their website at vibecre ativedistrict.org as available. Last year's event featured pop-up markets, specials and a $1,000 scavenger hunt prize. Event organizers say that ViBe's celebration is the largest in Hampton Roads, with over 50 businesses located within 1.5 miles in The District. More than 20 vendors sold fine art, ornaments, vintage clothing, handmade soaps and scrubs, kid's items and other crafts and apparel. Live music and a community mural painting were also part of the event.

“Small businesses are the heartbeat of the ViBe Creative District and events like this foster relationships amongst neighboring businesses and loyal customers,” said Kate Pittman, executive director of the ViBe Creative District.

To stay up-to-date, visit their website at vibecreativedistrict.org

NETWORKING WITH CONNECTOR

Artist Aimee Bruce autographing the Uncle Sam flyer for VBFH FreedomFest

Thanks for all you do, Aimee!

Randy, Rick & Diane at Ynot Wednesdays featuring The Deloreans

Beverly Griffin & Jodie Lynn (Bryte Eye Productions)

Holding down the fort for our sponsorship table VBFH FreedomFest

Mila, Jamie & Amy Friday Night Happy Hour on AOP

Amy, Jamie & Michelle Recovery for Life Gala (R4L)

Thanks for the invite, Amy!

sponsored by Atlantic Bay Mtg

SYMPHONICITY

VIRGINIA SYMPHONY

SYMPHONICITY

MORE

Locals Lesley and Deryn Shook opened Purple Bug Creations with a clear mission: To provide creative edible options for consumers.

"We provide unique spice blends, recipes to go with the spices, old-fashioned preserves, jams, butters, baked goods, and drink bombs we currently offer cocoa bombs, spiced ap ple cider, chai tea, butter beer, and white chocolate. We also do special orders. Our baked goods range from cookies to pies and cakes and breads and muffins. Butters can be fruit or nut. All of our jams, fruit butters and preserves are made fresh with in-season fruit. We even

handpick our own fruit and can it immediately (within 8 hours) after picking."

Did you know that con suming locally sourced foods boosts your immune system?

Purple Bug Creations uses local honey in its butters, jams and preserves, exposing your body to the same allergens you are already breathing in. It’s a deli cious way to help bolster your body against colds and other ailments.

Shop local this holiday season and support the wonderful, unique businesses within our community

SYMPHONY enjoy

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

by EMILY MCCREA

Adding a cultural event to the holiday schedule is as easy as persuing the Virginia Symphony online re sources. And what a great use for those fancy holiday dresses you'll otherwise only wear once this season!

Symphonicity is a 40-year-old Virginia Beach orchestra consisting of over 200 members coming from a variety of backgrounds, including school teachers, high school students, and business professionals who have gen erously offered their talents to bring music to the local community. You can learn more about Symphonicity and their upcoming events at symphonicity.org

The Virginia Symphony Orchestra is a must-see/hear. Preparing to celebrate its 100th year anniversary this upcoming fall, and considered the largest performing arts organization in southeastern Virginia, this orchestra has a full calendar of festive concerts to fit every occasion. For more information, visit virginiasymphony.org.

Bay Youth Orchestras of Virginia consists of over 350 student musicians from Hampton Roads, and has been in operation for over 50 years. The program gives students the opportunity to develop and demonstrate their skills in front of a live audience. To stay updated on upcoming performances, go to bayyouth.org.

SEE A SAMPLING OF EVENTS here on PAGE 24

Orchestras have been around for hundreds of years and they have remained timeless for a reason. There are few things more mag nificent than dozens of musicians playing in synchronous harmony as they each give their unique voice to music, inviting you to be a part of the experience. Take some time to appreciate our orchestras here in Virginia and Virginia Beach!

Never been to the symphony?

HERE ARE SOME TIPS:

►No need to study! The music will speak for itself.

►Dress up! You can really go all out and feel right at home.

►Plan to arrive at least 30 min utes before the music begins

►Performances are 90 min to two hours with one intermission

MORE QUESTIONS? virginiasymphony.org/plan-your-visit/

►No cameras, video, recording

12 DAYS OF TURNER

August 21, 1831, Nat Turner set his army onto the battleÞeld with the goal of occupying the county seat at Jerusalem (today’s Courtland, VA). By November 11th after Nat Turner was captured, tried and hung, also dead were over 300 White and Black men, women and children.

It is time to discuss this national tragedy.

“Healing without Shame or Blame”

STEPHEN TOWNS

“THE RIGHTEOUS AND THE WISE, AND THEIR WORKS ARE IN THE HAND OF GOD”

WWW.JUNETEENTHVA.ORG

SHOPPING FOR THE HOLIDAYS IN VIRGINIA BEACH

IS A BREEZE WITH LOCAL SHOPS LIKE TOPIARIES

carrying on a tradition sharon ballance

Owner and operator Sharon Ballance is a Virginia Beach native and is passionate about all things Virgin ia Beach, especially when it comes to carrying on the legacy of founder Gail Arnold.

Since I was a child, I have always wanted to have my own business. I was born into retail! At the ten der age of three I was fronting shelves at my dad’s A & P on Laskin Road. Dad, known as “Hutch,” was the A & P manager for 32 years before purchas ing his own store on Ocracoke Island. I worked in our family business for 25 years at The Ocracoke Variety Store on Ocracoke Island, NC. I did the buying for The Christmas Room greeting cards, tee shirts, bathing suits, beach towels, shoes and souvenirs. I love the excitement of being busy and helping people they leave feeling happy and in spired! I worked for Topiaries for four years before purchasing the business in 2018. I love our clients and enjoy working with each person.

The Topiaries shop itself is warm and welcoming and invites visitors to browse for decor inspiration. There's nothing that replaces the feel of a local shop the personal touch, seeing, feeling (and even smelling!) the actual products.

Shop local this holiday season and support the wonderful, unique businesses within our community

Christmas Open House

FRIDAY & SATURDAY

November 4th & 5th ♦ 10 AM to 5 PM

20% off

ONE ITEM excludes custom arrangements, special orders & sale/ discounted merchandise. Offer good on NOV 4th & 5th 2022 only. SHOP EARLY for best selection.

Topiaries carries hundreds of different lines, many of which have landed on Oprah’s famous "O" list, such as Votivo & much more.

With the holidays just around the corner, let Topiaries be your one-stopshopping for all things floral, table decor, gifts & so much more.

Shop early for best selection!

unique &beautiful fall home decor

silk plants

TOPIARIES & FLORAL DESIGNS

HOME DECOR & FURNITURE

GIFTS + CHRISTMAS

CANDLES & SCENTS

MAISON BERGER

301 - 25TH St, Ste 9, Virginia Beach VA

(757) 437-1183

Owner Sharon Ballance is honored to continue serving local patrons who have been inspired since 1992 by the creative ideas & treasures of founder Gail Arnold. DROP IN & SAY HELLO TO SHARON!

holidays call! examples of bake out She only

The holiday season is about to be in full swing! After shopping for gifts and groceries . . . who has time to bake?

This year, treat yourself, your hosts, your friends, your guests to baked goods and sweet treats from Lisa's Bake Shoppe.

Lisa's can help with any special occasion (or just take a baking shift off your hands!).

From sweets & treats to breads & wedding cakes, Lisa's Bake Shoppe in Portsmouth is ready to sweeten your day!

Call today and reserve your order (or place a special order) before the holidays get away from you . . .

Let Lisa's Bake Shoppe take the stress out of holiday baking!

LisasBakeShoppe1@gmail.com

(919) 780-9697

Play Station Birthday Wedding

brought to you by: KELLY KLAERS

Alliance REALTOR®

572-9537

Wishing you a wonderful & blessed Thanksgiving from my home to yours!

ANSWERS

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JOHAN SMITH

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KELLY KLAERS RE/MAX Alliance

VA & NC