VB Connector Cypress - November 2023

Virginia virginia beach edition

CONNECTOR

S TA N D UP FOR KIDS

Queens Green Dispensary CBD HAS GONE MAINSTREAM!

STEPHIE JONES: VIRGINIA B E AC H C OA S TA L ARTIST MEET THE TO M M Y V BAND

COMPLIMENTS OF

CYPRESS POINT EXPERT BRINDA GRIFFIN BROKER/OWNER OF GRIFFIN REALTY LLC GRIFFINREALTY.US VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 11

Randy DeMille Sr. Mortgage Banker NMLS #112145, Licensed in FL, NC, VA Direct: 757-222-4904 Fax: 757-419-2992 randydemille@atlanticbay.com www.atlanticbay.com/randydemille Revised Mar 13, 2020 Information is for educational purposes only and should not be relied upon by you. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. All loans subject to income verification, credit approval and property appraisal. Not a commitment to lend. Atlantic Bay Mortgage Group, L.L.C. NMLS #72043 (nmlsconsumeraccess.org) is an Equal Opportunity Lender. Located at 600 Lynnhaven Parkway Suite 203 Virginia Beach, VA 23452.

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Editor’s Note

N

ovember is National Novel Writing Month, a challenge to write a 50,000-word novel in 30 days, but do not worry I’ll keep my profound enthusiasm for this issue to a minimum. But this month’s issue is one to read by a warm fireplace and discuss with family and friends after a bountiful Thanksgiving dinner. More than ever, we are focused on building and strengthening the people, businesses, and nonprofits in our community, interconnecting them with others for our mutual benefit and enjoyment. Maybe it’s the fall reds, yellows and golds throughout the area that are keeping my spirits high. Maybe it’s the feedback from our readers who appreciate our efforts to promote “buy local” to support our local economy. Or the cool things happening on the boardwalk and in the ViBe district. But mostly it is the anticipation of the holiday season where, like you, I will spend time with those I most love and keep them extra close. I must acknowledge the weighty and sorrowful world events of late, as much as I have tried to swallow them down, so hold those you love this holiday season. Life is so precious and can change in an instant.

This month’s cover story is on one of our favorite local retired Navy SEALS, Nick Rocha.

The owner of Queens Green Apothecary on Virginia Beach Blvd, Nick is able to offer inside education on all CBD products. You never have to worry about leaving concerned.

You’ll know everything you need to know with the help of Nick and his great staff. Nick is also involved with local defense consulting and a lot of good causes so if you haven’t met him, be sure to stop by and introduce yourself. If you mention that you saw him here in the Virginia Connector Magazine, he will give you the VIP treatment.

We invite you to look at the oyster art of Stephie Jones, a subject matter that has taken off in recent years and gained her acclaim and a high demand for her paintings. She will have a direct release of ocean and beach paintings on her website on November 9th.

The outstanding charity of the month is Stand Up for Kids. Their volunteers serve homeless youth up to the age of 24, so please consider a donation to them that is generous for you and your family.

This time of the year is great for relaxing indoors and catching up from the peak season.

But how can we when there are so many great events? Be sure to check out our calendar for what’s not to miss!

If you haven’t experienced the sounds of The Tommy V Band, then you are missing out. This amazing foursome knows how to rock the house! Be sure to check out the interview we did with them and mark your calendar for one of their shows!

PUBLISHER Brad Weber Local Umbrella, Inc FOUNDER/CO-PUBLISHER/EDITOR Michelle Westberry michelle@connectormagazines.com FOR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES CONTACT Michelle Westberry michelle@connectormagazines.com (757) 567-9354 CUSTOMER SERVICE office@connectormagazines.com STAFF SUPPORT Paw-ssistants to Michelle Westberry CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Thomas Marshall CONTRIBUTORS Moxy Hotel, Patrick Evans-Hlyton, Stephie Jones, ViBe District, Visit Virginia Beach.

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© 2023 Connector Magazines is published by Inspired Media LLC. Reproduction or duplication of any part herein requires written permission from publisher. All information included herien is correct to the best of Publisher’s knowledge as of publication connecting communities, one neighborhood at a time communities date. Corrections should beconnecting forwarded to Publisher at one neighborhood at a time 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 of political or religious views; therefore, publisher shall not be held liable for business practices of advertisers. Publisher is not liable for images or content accepted in good faith.

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4

INSPIRED MEDIA | VOLUME 2 — ISSUE 9

CONTENTS 7

November

OUR EXPERTS Look For Our Local Experts and Shop Local

1o NON PROFIT SPOTLIGHT Stand Up for Kids 12 ARTS MATTERS Stephie Jones- Virginia Beach Coastal Artist 16 COVER STORY 22 LOCAL MARKETPLACE, NETWORKING & EVENTS

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Virginia

CONNECTOR MAGAZINE

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IRRIGATION James Reeves HYDRA IRRIGATION (757) 917-5652 • hydrairrigation.com info@hydrairrigation.com

CBD Nicholas Antonio Rocha QUEENS GREEN APOTHECARY (757) 486-0941 • QueensGreenVB.com QueensGreenRX@gmail.com

KITCHEN & BATH Robert Stahl NEPTUNE KITCHEN & BATH (757) 222-3181 NeptuneKitchenandBath.com

GROW EXPERT Adam Dobbins GROW DEPOT (757) 560-0355 • growdepot757.com adam@growdepot757.com

LANDSCAPING & ARBORISTS Michael Campbell ART-IS-TREE LLC (757) 319-5131 • artistreeva.com artistreeofvirginia@gmail.com

GYM Bernie Neighbor GYM AND JUICE TOWN CENTER (757) 969-8844 • gymandjuicetowncenter.com admin@gymandjuicetowncenter.com

NETWORKING Jake Maines 757 NETWORKING HH (864) 567-4124 • networkinghh.com jake@jakemaines.com

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WANTED: Local Experts to join our Expert Team!

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ANNUAL VETERANS DAY PARADE

VETER

DA REMEMBER TH

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, 2023 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, 2023 9 - 11 AM

ERANS AY THE SACRIFICE THINGS WE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT VETERANS DAY: 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.

CONNECTOR MAGAZINES

21

Non Profits

StandUp for kids helps homeless and disconnected youth ages 12-24. Our mission is to end the cycle of youth homelessness by any means necessary. Last year we served over 1,600 youth and over 5,000 meals. We currently have a youth (18-24yo) Emergency Shelter, a Drop-In Center (for all ages up to 24) that is open three evenings a week for “Food and friendship”. We have multiple storage units that hold essentials for our youth. We also have a pay for grades program that is an incentive for our disconnected youth to not only stay in school but excel in their subjects.

Standup for kids is having a fundraiser the whole month of November 2023 called Standup and move. This family friendly event can be done from the comfort of your own neighborhood and can involve as few or as many people as you would like.

Standup and move also coincides with National Youth Homeless Awareness month in November.

Standup for kids gets youth from all walks of life. In 2020 we had a youth in shelter that identified as part of the LGBTQA+ community. When we realized that there was nowhere in Virginia Beach for him to receive services “YOU” was born.

“YOU” is a safe place for all youth ages 12-18 who are questioning or identify as part of the LGBTQA+ community. “YOU” is a preventative service for suicide and homelessness.

“YOU” was started in May of 2021. We started small with just five attendees. However, we have outgrown many spaces and have had up to 45 youth at a time at a meeting. Currently, we meet on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of every month. Please contact Nicole at Nicolep@STANDUPFORKIDS.ORG for the location information.

“YOU” brings in people from the community to the meetings, so our youth feel heard and important. We partner with Seton Youth services to bring in lessons that relate to our age group.

We play games, do scavenger hunts and have breakout sessions.

The breakout sessions (the good, bad and ugly) gives the youth a chance to talk about some of the adversity they may be facing and how to deal with it. Adversity can be at home or school. Sgt. Jennifer Johannesen who is the LGBT liaison for the VA Beach police dept has also been part of the group since day one. She is helping bridge the gap between our youth and the police dept.

10 | CO N N ECTO R M AGA Z I N E S.CO M

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Art Matters

Stephie Jones Coveted Coastal Painter

When we came across artist Stephie Jones at a recent panel Q&A in the Vibe District, and saw her gorgeous paintings of oysters, we just had to know more!

Stephie is a coastal artist who is well known for her captivating and colorful interpretations of oysters, as well as beach scenes and abstracted coastal landscapes. You may also recognize her work from her best selling 2019 Neptune Festival Poster. Her current installation at Taste Unlimited at Hilltop will show through April 2024, so grab a delicious sammie and check it out!

Stephie experiments with her subjects in all forms, sometimes focusing on realism, other times mood, and often experimenting with color and abstracted shapes or layering texture and pattern. Her in-demand paintings evoke feelings of peace and serenity, and other times energetic playfulness!

“I’m fascinated by unique color pairings, the depth created in darks and lights, the surprises created by building layers of paint, and the nebulous organic shapes found in nature. No two paintings are the same and I lose myself in all of them.”

Stephie just finished a breathtaking collection of seascape paintings in November. The collection is light, airy and brings to mind the soft and lovely pace of life for those of us lucky enough to call the beach home. Fall in love with them all at StephieJones.com.

Stephie is represented by Palette Home, Liza Pruitt, Dress the Room Charleston and Beach Gallery.

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12 | CO N N ECTO R M AGA Z I N E S.CO M

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Entertainment

By Thomas Marshall

S a x o n t he B e a c h A good live band takes the listener on a journey and helps them draw their own conclusions. At 501 Kitchen and Bar on a breezy Saturday night in September, I found the Tommy V Band indulging in some lovable, well-played rock & roll and R&B nostalgia. I quickly concluded that I needed to add their schedule to my calendar.

“They make me feel at home,” said patron Kim Cross. “I’ve seen them here 3 or 4 times, their vocals are great, I just love them.”

Many couples danced the night away. After dancing with his partner to “Stand by Me,” Back Jones said, “I love the music they play. Let’s make ‘em famous!”

The Tommy V Band has been playing a wide array of music from Motown to Steely Dan - in Hampton Roads and the Outer Banks for years. Tonight, the band was comprised of Tom Vinick (main vocals), Dana Silvercloud (Bass), Loyd Bohlinger (drums), and Dave Kreiselman (Sax).

Their strong suits are folk Rock and R&B. They have an amazing three-person harmony, and the sound of Dave’s sax is

all at once rich, mellow, and strong. Their renditions of “Up on a Roof” and “Copperline” so surprised me that I was taken back to the three times I have seen James Taylor live in concert. Their homage to the great Carlos Santana could make anyone change their evil ways.

While other bands have a background “musak” machine, this band only has themselves and the purity of their music. Loyd says, “We only have instrumentation. We respect and trust each other immensely.”

All of the musicians have had long and accomplished careers in music. As a youngster, Dana even played with Gladys Knight and Aretha Franklin on the Chitlin’ Circuit, which was a collection of performance venues that provided commercial and cultural acceptance for African American musicians.

“We go head-first into our music,” said Dana. “I draw from these guys, and we try to speak to each other through our music.”

Take a journey with the Tommy V Band so you can draw your own conclusions. Their schedule can be found on Facebook.

“Love, Peace and Music will always rule.”

“We appreciate the locals showing up and supporting us-without them, there would be no need for us”

15 | N OVE M B E R 2 0 2 3

Playing at the 501 Kitchen and Bar Nov 18th. For all other shows, please follow us on FB:

CANNABIS HAS GONE

MAINSTREAM

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BY THOMAS MARSHALL CANNABIS HAS GONE MAINSTREAM. IT IS BECOMING MORE PREVALENT AS A TREATMENT FOR MANY HEALTH ISSUES. The anti-anxiety effects of CBD help people have calm and relaxed feelings. CBD has also been used to treat seizures, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, alcoholism, multiple sclerosis, depression, pain/inflammation, and other conditions.

Although CBD is a hot commodity today, it took decades to capture the attention of clinical scientists for the treatment of various health issues. In fact, some might say it took millennia to make CBD a mainstream medication, because there are anecdotal reports dating back to 2000 B.C. regarding the use of Cannabis sativa to treat seizures.

The public continues to seek natural alternatives to supplement and maintain their health, but of course, they want to do so responsibly. They want to get the full benefits of CBD products without over or under medicating. They have lots of questions.

Queens Green Dispensary, the CBD store at 2694 Virginia Beach Boulevard, has a great reputation for taking the time to answer those questions and educate its customers. They have become the experts on the safest and best quality products, so the customer doesn’t have to worry about what they are consuming.

Nick Rocha, the owner of Queens Green, said he first looked into CBD products after traditional treatments failed to improve his older daughter’s severe anxiety and depression. Her doctor gave her a myriad of pharmaceuticals over two years. But her condition worsened with each new pill, and it impacted her grades.

“As parents, we were wondering why the medical system was not working in our favor,” said Nick. “I was a Navy SEAL getting the best medical care that our nation could provide, yet I couldn’t even solve a problem like anxiety and depression in my child.”

Eventually, his daughter developed Tourette’s Syndrome with annoying verbal and motor ticks which the doctors said was a possible side effect of all the pharmaceutical drugs. At his wits end, Nick and his wife Angela, a registered nurse, listened to a psychiatrist friend who said that there was a lot of good research being done with medical cannabis that had worked wonders with other patients with similar conditions. As a military Senior Enlisted leader, Nick’s first response was no, but as a parent his wife and him were desperate to try anything.

When Nick’s daughter finally tried CBD, within three minutes she was pain and anxiety free for up to six hours and her motor ticks went away almost immediately. She was able to think and function clearly and focus on her schoolwork, and not hit herself uncontrollably like before.

“It was a miracle medicine for us,” said Nick. “We had become hopeless because we had run out of options.”

Nick was a Navy Seal for 26 years, including 9 combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. The demands and stress of his service took a toll on his body and family. When Nick retired from the Navy, he had two hip surgeries and a shoulder surgery.

For pain management, he wanted an alternative to opioids because they had severe side effects. He took CBD and within two to three days after each surgery he was walking again.

“CBD is designed to heal,” says Nick. “It is all a mindset. The American Nursing Association just recognized that CBD is so powerful and amazing that they need to dedicate an entire subspecialty of nursing to it. Clearly the mainstream medical world sees the benefits.”

17 | N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3

Queen’s Green Dispensary was opened to help serve the local community, especially fellow veterans. They sell products like CBD oils and tinctures, gummies, salves, lotions, cream and more.

Nick said he is often approached by other Navy SEALS and veterans. According to the Department of Veteran Affairs, 8% of veterans have PTSD. For those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, that number jumps up to 11% or higher. According to the National Organization for Reform of Marijuana Legislation (NORML) over 67% of Veterans are in favor of changing the law in favor of allowing medical cannabis as a treatment for their PTSD. “CBD works in the hardware of your body while a small portion of THC (less than .03%) works in the brains pain receptors or ‘software’ to help relieve PTSD and a number of other ailments,” he says. “Full Spectrum CBD is just medicine and has no psychoactive properties.”

A recently retired Navy Captain friend of his had just had back surgery and had tried other pharmaceutical options without any relief. He was reluctant to try anything with the name “cannabis” associated with it, but with only 2 hours of sleep a night, he was desperate for relief and reached out to Nick. Luckily Nick was able to offer a stronger CBD option through a newly created, state approved, gummy and received a text message the next day stating, “Nick, Home Run! I was able to get 8.5 hours sleep last night and I feel absolutely amazing.

“While no one is in business to grow smaller, I’m not motivated solely by profits,” says Nick. “I’m doing this because CBD helped my daughter and my PTSD issues and I just want to help education others on the alternatives available.”

CBD companies like Queens Green currently offer a wide variety of products. Nevertheless, this diversity will surely increase as other compounds are developed for specific issues.

As CBD has gone mainstream, so has public education about the uses and positive effects. Stop by Queens Green on the Boulevard where you will be able to feel more confident and safer when purchasing CBD products.

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2973 Shore Dr. Suite 103,V irginia Beach, VA

www.coastalelitewc.com

We can't control everything, but we can control the temperature inside.

From start to finish, we’ll be there alongside you.

HVAC | Fire & Water Restoration | Asbestos Abatement Repair & Restoration

hightidecontracting.com FAMILY

Operated Owned

EXCEPTIONAL HIGHEST

Values

Quality

PATIOS | WALKWAYS | POOL DECKS | PORCHES | CUSTOM DESIGNS

Come Visit Us! Open Hours: Mon-Sat: 10am – 7pm Sun: 11am – 5pm GIVE US A CALL (757) 937-1504 2404 Virginia Beach Blvd.

Virginia Beach, VA

SPECIALIZE IN RETAINER WALLS, LANDSCAPING WALLS, PAVER INSTALLATION, CONCRETE OF ALL SORTS.

RELATIONS WITH RELIABLE AND OUTSTANDING CONTRACTORS OF NEARLY ALL TRADES TO ASSIST IN OTHER PROJECTS.

Marty’s Hardscapes Pavers & Concrete

(757) 770-0007 18 | CO N N ECTO R M AGA Z I N E S.CO M

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

@757ConcreteAndPavers

THE VIRGINIA FLOORS FAMILY BI G I N V E N TO R Y, LOW, P RI CES, A ND GREAT CUSTOM ER SERV I CE

FLOOR TRADER

floortraderofvirginia.com Floor Trader is your flooring supplier for installers and DIY homeowners and home flippers. Although installation services are not employed here, resources for contractors can be provided for you to book yourself. Floor Trader is a large warehouse with millions of square feet of flooring that’s readily available to you at the time of purchase.

Floor Trader of Chesapeake, 1725 S Military Hwy, Chesapeake, VA Floor Trader of Virginia Beach 1104 Lynnhaven Pkwy A, Virginia Beach, VA

CARPET WORLD CARPET ONE

carpetworldofva.com Carpet World Carpet One is a full-service flooring retailer for the everyday customer that will walk you through each step to fulfilling your flooring needs. They handle your project from start to finish, beginning with the design and ending with the installation.

Carpet World Carpet One of Chesapeake 669 Cedar Rd, Chesapeake, VA 23322 Carpet World Carpet One of Norfolk 3431 N Military Hwy, Norfolk, VA 23518

PROSOURCE WHOLESALE

prosourcewholesale.com Prosource Wholesale is a one-stop wholesale distributor for all types of flooring materials, as well as everything needed for kitchens and bathrooms. These stores are for trade professionals, so you must be a contractor, designer, installer, or other trade professional to shop here.

Prosource of Hampton Roads 1738 Lambert Ct, Chesapeake, VA Prosource of Newport News 301 Village Ave, Yorktown, VA

Locally owned & operated tree service offering the best pricing for your needs.

Large & small projects done with precision, safety & efficiency.

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

Tree Cutting & Elevation

Tree & Stump Tree Pruning Removal

Residential & Commercial

Installations & Service Landscape Lighting Drainage & Winterizations Class A Licensed & Insured

Trees that are properly taken care of are more resilient to a range of potential problems, are infinitely more attractive, and can add substantial value to your property.

F R E E I N S TA L L AT I O N E S T I M AT E S !

Call today for an estimate on your unique tree service needs

(757) 917-5652 | www.hydrairrigation.com

HOURS: Mon - Sat 7AM — 7PM

(757) 319-5131 ♦ artistreva.com ♦ artistreeofvirginia@gmail.com 19 | N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3

Personalized Insurance Solutions with 40+ Carriers (757) 581-6472

Monica.Savino@goosehead.com

SCAN to run quotes ONLINE

HAVE OTHER QUESTIONS? CALL MONICA!

SAVINO AGENCY MONICA

SAVINO

RIDESHARE INSURANCE — Did you know?

In our sharing economy, Uber, Lyft, Grubhub and Door Dash are becoming extremely common. Due to increased risk, many personal auto policies won’t cover losses that occur while using your vehicle to drive for a fee. Limited insurance coverage may be offered by these companies, but this does not protect you in certain scenarios and your personal auto insurance may not either.

Talk to your agent about adding “rideshare” and/or “business use” endorsements to your policy to properly protect you in all scenarios.

Join us monthly for a little food & wine, financial education & a whole lotta networking.

When GREAT women come together to Support & Encourage one another, AMAZING things can happen!

Since 2011, we’ve been serving ladies of Hampton Roads.

Grab a girlfriend and join us for this complimentary event.

Space is limited, register now to save your seat and learn more at InspireYouAgency.eventbrite.com.

Your Host: Angie Utter Gauthier, EVP

Angie@InspireYouAgency.com (757) 618-0055

A home inspection is a small investment that can save you money. Let us help you avoid costly surprises down the road.

Lind’s Property Inspections • 757-270-1817 | 757-575-5923 • lindspropertyinspections@gmail.com • www.lindspropertyinspections.com 20 | CO N N ECTO R M AGA Z I N E S.CO M

Eat Well

V I RGI N I A B E AC H E AT S & D R I N K S

Good Eats, Drinks, And Dos Across The City And Beyond

I

By Patrick Evans-Hylton

t’s a big city out there, with all sorts of good eats, drinks, and dos.

I’ve covered the cuisine scene in the region for going on three decades, using my training as a chef, mixologist, and wine expert to give folks all the delish details they need to live a good life.

Look for this column monthly in the pages of Virginia Beach Coonector.

EAT

DRINK Frank Sinatra famously said, “I feel sorry for people that don’t drink because when they wake up in the morning, that is the best they’re going to feel all day.”

We solve that by enjoying an eyeopening imbibe over breakfast at Doc Taylor’s.

With a myriad of early-day drinks including bloody mary’s, mimosas, screwdrivers, and greyhounds all priced at just $3.25, choosing the right imbibe may be the hardest decision you’ll make all morning.

I picked the greyhound, a simple but delicious and refreshing mix of bracing grapefruit juice and even more bracing vodka.

The cocktail is bright, and with the juice addition, it’s easy to fool yourself that you are drinking something healthy. OK, relatively healthy.

Doc Taylor’s is at 207 23rd St., Virginia Beach. Call 757-4251960 or visit www.DocTaylors.com

DO The crab cake at CP Shuckers Cafe & Raw Bar ticks off many of my requirements for the dish, including a preponderance of meat and complementary - but not overpowering - seasonings.

Available as a dinner or a sandwich, I chose the latter.

A large patty of mostly crab and not much more was presented, golden, brown, and delicious, resting atop a soft brioche bun and garnished with lettuce and tomato. Within the cake was a mixture of lump and backfin meat; I was impressed with the amount of lump mixed in, as well as the choice quality.

Spices and some fresh herbs were in the mix. There was no noticeable filler, and any binder was used very sparingly. The cake was broiled perfectly, and each bite was full of flavor. Of the option of side dishes, I picked sweet potato fries, which were delicious.

CP Shuckers is at 2407 Pacific Ave., Virginia Beach. Call 757-425-8676 or visit www.oceanfront.CPShuckers.com

Fans of the venerable Coastal Grill restaurant know that autumn means the return of roasted acorn squash halves as sides on the delectable dishes.

Restauranteur Jerry Bryan shared with with me this special recipe more than a decade ago after much cajoling. It’s truly something special. Do make this at home.

Preheat oven to 400F. Split acorn squash from stem to tip; with spoon, scoop out seeds. On a sheet pan or pie tin place squash hallowed side down. Add a half-inch water and place in hot oven for 35-45 minutes or until you can prick the skin easily with a knife, careful not to punch too large a hole in squash or it will not hold butter. Invert squash and add a pat of sweet butter and a tablespoon of brown sugar. Yields 2 servings.

Coastal Grill is at 1427 N. Great Neck Rd., Virginia Beach.

Call 757-496-3348 or visit www.CoastalGrill.com

21 | N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3

Patrick Evans-Hylton is a Johnson & Walestrained chef and Virginia-based awardwinning food journalist, covering tasty culinary trends in print, radio, television, and online since 1995. Read him at VirginiaEatsAndDrinks.com

NETWORKING IN THE 757 WITH JAKE MAINES Heading into an evening networking event can be challenging. Finding the time “after work”, keeping up with your diet, and to drink or not to drink? While drinking at an event can make you loosen up, it also has many drawbacks which can clearly make attending the event less appealing… You’re not alone in that feeling!

The thing is, at most events, drinking is not all the rage. The goal at a networking event should always be to make connections in a fun environment, and that doesn’t require alcohol. For some, it helps to lower the pressure, but there are plenty of ways to make that happen. For example, inviting friends to tag along, making friends with the host, or even grabbing a fun mocktail!

Mocktails are becoming very popular, and I love that! In fact, at the last Networking Happy Hour, we served up a ton of tasty mocktails and so many of the guests loved them. They kept everyone at the party included & focused on creating meaningful connections, with no pressure to drink.

Thank you JCOC for a honorable evening!

Networking Happy Hour: A low-key, no agenda, meet new people/catch up with old friends-type of event. Occurs the first Wednesday of every month. Register at networkinghh.com or by scanning the QR code below.

Cheers, Jake Maines

REGISTER FOR NETWORKING HAPPY HOUR!

All Districts Read labeling 31k books for local kids!

Red Carpet Halloween Gala at the TCCC

Our editor Tom taking a break in between stories 22 | CO N N ECTO R M AGA Z I N E S.CO M

23 | N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3

JCOC Black & White Gala a Huge Success Three hundred people celebrated the JudeoChristian Outreach Center’s 37th anniversary at the annual Black & White Gala on Friday, October 6th.

The evening featured a cocktail hour with silent auction and inspiring dinner program featuring comedians Joy Julian and Cletus Kassady.

At the event, Todd Walker the Executive Director spoke about how the attendees’ support was changing lives. He explained how JCOC empowers individuals, families, and veterans who are hungry and experiencing homelessness to recover from crisis situations and return to being selfsupporting, productive, and independent members of the community.

Also speaking at the event were three former clients including Vincent Ramsey. He relocated from Philadelphia to Virginia Beach and became homeless. He shared how JCOC helped him find permanent housing eight years ago. Vincent is a part of the fabric of our community and successfully living on his own.

“I love hearing from former clients who needed just a little boost so they could start working on healing themselves,” said Todd Walker. “When we help people gain housing, they regain their own voice and are empowered.”

For more information on how you can help break the cycle of hunger and homeless, please visit jcoc.org. They have a list of needs on their website, with the most urgent items being men’s and women’s underwear, bus passes (1day GoPass), bottled water, and snack bags.

Todd Walker, JCOC’s Executive Director

Almost 300 community leaders and partners came to JCOC’s fundraiser.

Emcee Barbara Hamm Lee. North Beach Plastic Surgery, Onyx Sponsor

24 | CO N N ECTO R M AGA Z I N E S.CO M

THE

GA L L E RY

WATCH ART UNDER CONSTRUCTION!

custom framing · fine art · reproductions

Every day see artists at work and happy to talk about their creations.

Friday Block Party ( first Friday of each month) Come meet your neighbors and join us for food, drinks, art, music and fun!

Also see over 50 regional artists on display in Virginia Beach’s only artists’ cooperative.

It’s the ViBe ViBe’s best place to take home a memory of your visit!

313 Laskin Rd., Suite 104 | 757-428-3726 | www.beachgallery.com Free Parking off 30th St.

THE EMPLOYEE VALUE PROPOSITION (EVP)

THE ARTISTS GALLERY is located in the Virginia Beach Art Center 532 Virginia Beach Blvd., Virginia Beach, VA 23451 757-425-6671 • Theartistsgallery.org HOURS: Tues.-Fri.-10 am-5 pm • Sat.-10 a.m.-4 pm • Sun.-12-4 pm

G L A S S | C B D | VA P E | G U M M I E S | T I N C T U R E S

BY SUE LEBRATO Why is the EVP important to you? If you are a potential employee, this represents the company’s offerings to you based on your skills, abilities, and experience. If you are the employer, the EVP represents your strategic offerings to candidates based on the characteristics above, and what a particular individual brings to the company.

The EVP can include the compensation philosophy, the value of total rewards, bonuses, vacation time, perquisites, and includes organizational culture and matters surrounding “ways of working.” For example, does the company have a philosophy of having decisions made at the lowest practical level, or are decisions all made at the top of the organization? Is the organization involved in matters of Social Responsibility that you can participate in (think volunteerism)?

We have the very best Broad and Full Spectrum CBD to provide alternative solutions to your muscle & joint pain, anxiety and depression, and sleep aid. If it's Legal we Got it!

For prospective employees, the EVP becomes a broader factor in making comparative decisions about which company to join. Employers should note that it’s this total picture that savvy candidates are assessing your job opening against.

In our current tight labor market, understanding your own organization’s EVP is critical to both Recruitment and Retention!

If you would like to learn more about your organization’s EVP, reach out to Sue Lebrato at You’re Amazing! slebrato@me.com.

You’re Amazing!

Veteran & Hispanic Owned.

2 6 9 4 V I RG I N I A B E A C H B LV D V I RG I N I A B E A C H VA 2 3 4 5 2 757.486.0941

Organizational/Business Consulting slebrato@me.com

25 | N OVE M B E R 2 0 2 3

26 | CO N N ECTO R M AGA Z I N E S.CO M

MARKETPLACE Town Point Park, Norfolk festevents.org $25 - $40

ONGOING: November 19, December 17; 11am to 2pm Peabody’s Comedy Brunch www.VBhotdeals.com Tickets $2.50

Every Saturday thru October; November 4 & 18, & December 16, 9am to 12pm Old Beach Farmer’s Market 620 19th Street, Virginia Beach oldbeachfarmersmarket.com/

Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday Live Music at Old Beach Tavern Bands such as: The Janitors, Hotcakes, Intangible Cats and more 3020 Virginia Beach Blvd, Virginia Beach

November 4 & 18, & December 16, 9am to 12pm Old Beach Farmer’s Market 620 19th Street, Virginia Beach oldbeachfarmersmarket.com

Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday Game nights at Warriors Taphouse - Free Get discounted food and drink vouchers on VBhotdeals.com November 8 & 22, Dec 6 & 20, 7 to 10pm Karl’s Open Mic Beach Barracuda’s 1479 General Booth Blvd, Virginia Beach October 21 & 22, 11am to 6pm TOWN POINT WINE FESTIVAL

November and December, dates vary Norfolk Admirals Hockey Norfolk Scope Cost: $22 to $56 For more information: norfolkadmirals.com

November 3 and 4, 7:30pm; November 5, 2:30pm The Barber of Seville Harrison Opera House, Norfolk sevenvenues.com/events $32 to $130

SI

K VEMBE

R

N

Shopping S h pppp FRIDAY

17

Ongoing in November & December Sports at Old Dominion University Football, field hockey, men’s and women’s soccer and more. Ticket prices vary odusports.com November 3, 7:30pm Nimesh Patel - comedian Attucks Theatre, Norfolk sevenvenues.com/events $39 to $49

HOP • STO

O

Ongoing October Concerts at The Norva Enjoy live music and special events at the Norva including: ZOSO (The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience), Wild Nothing, Men I Trust, and more thenorva.com

Sundays from 9am to 7pm Sunday Dog Days at Norfolk Botanical Gardens Explore the Gardens with your Canine Best Friend norfolkbotanicalgarden.org

C

P

•S

EVENTS

12-6 PM

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC • FREE ADMISSION PRINCESS ANNE COUNTRY CLUB 3800 PACIFIC AVE. | VIRGINIA BEACH Enjoy a complimentary glass of wine while you shop for the holidays!

Please bring a non-perishable Food Bank donation.

Vendors, please con ntact Dawn Roberson at droberson@princesssannecc.com / 757-440-3101

27 | N OVE M B E R 2 0 2 3

MARKETPLACE November 4, 1 to 6pm 7th Annual Wings Over Leukemia and Lymphoma Music & Wingfest 2 awesome bands!

Ballyhoos, Virginia Beach $60 with a limited number of discount tickets on VBhotdeals.com wingsoverll.com November 7, 8pm Bill Burr Live Scope Arena $39 to $159 sevenvenues.com/events November 10 - 12 Virginia Beach Jeep Fest Virginia Beach Oceanfront vabeachjeepfest.com November 10, 8pm Pat McGann - Comedian Farmer’s Market Comedy Night to Benefit People in Need Sandler Center for the Performing Arts sandlercenter.org

EVENTS

$25 to $50 November 11, 8pm Rumours of Fleetwood Mac Sandler Center for the Performing Arts sandlercenter.org $50 to $75 November 14th, 7:30pm Colson Whitehead at Norfolk Forum Chrysler Hall, Norfolk thenorfolkforum.org $45 November 17 - 19 Coastal Virginia Auto Show Virginia Beach Convention Center cvautoshow.com November 18, 7:00pm John Crist - Comedian Harrison Opera House, Norfolk sevenvenues.com/events November 25 to December 24, times vary

Nicole Nicole Nicole Nicole Nicole Nicole Nicole Nicole Maxino Maxino Maxino Maxino Maxino Maxino Maxino Maxino (757) (757) (757) (757) (757) (757) (757) 652-0808 (757) 652-0808 652-0808 652-0808 652-0808 652-0808 652-0808 652-0808 28 | CO N N ECTO R M AGA Z I N E S.CO M

A Merry Christmas Carol, presented by Virginia Stage Company Wells Theatre sevenvenues.com/events $15 to $80 November 26, 2 and 6pm Nutcracker - Magical Christmas Ballet Sandler Center for the Performing Arts sandlercenter.org $32 to $177 December 2, 12 to 8pm Holiday Yule Log Bonfire & Holiday Marketplace Town Point Park, Downtown Norfolk Waterfront festevents.org Free & open to the public!

December 2, 7:30pm Holiday Pops! Virginia Symphony Orchestra Chrysler Hall sevenvenues.com/events $25 - $119 55% off tickets on VBhotdeals.com

Connector Magazines Proud 2023 Sponsor

Oyster Crush wa s a s m a s h h i t !

Hosted by the Cape Henry Rotary Foundation, the 39th Annual Oyster Crush lived up to its billing as one of the best parties of the year.. There was a great crowd of more than 700 people at Ballyhoos on Sunday afternoon October 6th. A whopping 39 sponsors signed up, including event sponsor First Colonial Inn. There was the hot roasted oyster station outside by the stage, and under the tent there was fried chicken, beans, coleslaw and so many other delicious things to eat. And of course, the beer truck and tasty mixed drinks.

As the day progressed, a large crowd of people were dancing to the Tidewater Drive Band and DJ ShyDot. Attendees danced to R&B and rock favorites in the beautiful afternoon sunshine.

The event gave booth space to 12 local nonprofit organization ranging from Together We Can Foundation to Equikids to JudeoChristian Outreach Center. Representatives from each charity were on hand to talk with attendees and hand out literature. It was a wonderful opportunity to raise funds and awareness for so many wonderful causes.

The Cape Henry Rotary Club and Virginia Connector want to thank Ballyhoos, especially Craig, Lindsay, and Chris, who made it possible to host a first-class event.

Next year will be the 40th Annual Oyster Crush so please plan to attend in early October 2024!

Oysters, oysters and more oysters!

Many of the attendees come back every year!

It was a picture-perfect fall day!

Hard at work shucking those oysters!

A good time was had by all!

29 | N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 3

MARKETPLACE EVENTS ViBe EVENTS (through November) HAVE YOU ASKED YOURSELF THESE QUESTIONS WHEN THINKING ABOUT RETIREMENT? Have I saved enough?

What if there’s another stock market downturn?

Could changes in politics and policies affect me?

Could increased tax rates

take a toll on my monthly income?

What if I need to go into a nursing home?

Wouldn’t it be nice to retire with confidence?

Contact our office today to take the first step in measuring your retirement readiness and ensure you are prepared for the retirement you’ve always imagined!

Singer Songwriter Saturdays - every Saturday from 9am to noon during in ViBe Park and on 19th Street come hear local musicians playing a mix of original songs and old favorites.

First Friday Mural Walking Tour 6-7:30pm #FirstFriday No RSVP required.

Meet up at the LOVE sign on Cypress Ave at 18th Street to join the guided 1.5 miles walking tour around the arts district.

First Sunday Public Art Bike Tours 9-11am.

Ride at your own pace on your own bike as a guide leads your around the arts district sharing stories behind the murals and other public art works.

Second Saturday Mural Walking Tour 10am-11:30am No RSVP required.

Meet up at the LOVE sign on Cypress Ave at 18th Street to join the guided 1.5 miles walking tour around the arts district.

Second Saturday South Bath Experience 10am and 10:45am Bring a yoga mat or borrow a complimentary hammock to enjoy two 30 minute sound art sessions in 18th St Parklet.

Vibrant Drumming Circle- Last Sunday Monthly - 6-7:30pm, in ViBe Park. Bring a chair and a drum or borrow one on site in ViBe Park at 18th St and Cypress Ave. This causal meet up group practices both guided and free from drumming.

Golf Cart Tours for persons with disabilities - please call to schedule at least 1 week in advance 757-202-9533. www.vibecreativedistrict.org

Asset Protection • Retirement Planning Lifetime Income • LTC Solutions Life insurance • Legacy Planning Medicare Solutions

Contact us today to schedule a complimentary retirement review!

HR RETIRE, INC. 4445 Corporation Lane Suite 276 Virginia Beach, Virginia 23462

(757) 807-9505 www.hrretire.com

Artist Nico Cathcart at Ambassadors Inn.

Danielle & Jeff Randolph

We are an independent financial services firm helping individuals create retirement strategies using a variety of insurance products to custom suit their needs and objectives

Artist Eric Jones at WRV.

30 | CO N N ECTO R M AGA Z I N E S.CO M

THANKSGIVING CHEAT SHEET APPETIZERS

PER PERSON

8 GUESTS

12 GUESTS

24 GUESTS

Dips

3 oz

1 ½ lb

Small apps

2-3 pieces

16-24 pieces

Cheese plates

2 oz

1 lb

2 ½ lbs

Salad

1 cup

10 cups

18 cups

30 cups

MAIN DISH

PER PERSON

8 GUESTS

12 GUESTS

24 GUESTS

Turkey

1 ½ lbs

12 lbs

18 lbs

36 lbs

Stuffing

1/4 cup

6 cups

9 cups

18 cups

Gravy

1/2 cup

4 cups

6 cups

12 cups

Mashed Potatoes

1 cup

8 cups

12 cups

24 cups

Roasted Veggies

3/4 cup

6 cups

9 cups

18 cups

Candied Yams

1/2 cup

4 cups

6 cups

12 cups

Cranberry Sauce

1 cup

8 cups

12 cups

14 cups

Dinner Rolls

2 rolls

9 rolls

18 rolls

36 rolls

DESSERT

PER PERSON

8 GUESTS

12 GUESTS

24 GUESTS

Cookies

1 piece

Baked Apples

1 apple

Various Pies

1 slice

1-2 pies

2.25 lbs 24-36 pieces

4.25 lbs 48-72 pieces 3 lbs

2-3 pies

6-7 pies

8-10 pieces

12-15 pieces

24-30 pieces

8 apples

12 apples

24 apples

Hope this is helpful! Save this page for future Thanksgivings, and give me a call any time for your real estate needs!

Brinda Griffin Broker/Owner of Griffin Realty LLC Cell: (757) 406-4872

249 Central Ave Suite 300-27 Virginia Beach, VA 23462

Specializes in Military Relocation, Distressed Properties, Short Sales, Foreclosures, Land Acquisition & New Construction, Helping Buyers & Sellers since 2003