VB Connector Aging Well Dec. 2023

Virginia aging well edition

CONNECTOR

VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 12

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Editor’s Note

O

ur second year of doing business has come to an end. I am so excited to have exceeded growth expectations, thanks to so many new partners.

A few 2023 highlights include launching our Aging Well edition and forming a partnership with the ViBe District to promote local events and artists.

I’ve learned a lot of lessons since I started this magazine. To be a successful woman-owned business, you must build relationships that help you share authentic content. The people and businesses on our pages and in our ads aren’t clients but partners that help each other. Knowing 360 about someone instead of just 180 allows us to really know what our partners need and have more in-depth stories.

Another lesson learned is that “backyard networking” works! Every expert must come with at least one strong referral. Our experts are more concerned about doing a good job than being on page 1 of Google. Frankly, they don’t need a lot of money for marketing because they just do a great job and get a ton of referrals.

As I look to 2024, I am excited to be launching into a few new markets, doubling our growth and continuing to bring our community together. Our forward progress convinces me that print is not dead. At Virginia Connector, we take the time to research, write, and explain. We like to have fun with stories, but also dig into them like the recent ones on the Moxy Hotel, the Tommy V Band, Gym and Juice, and our charities and artists. I’d like to think we have a little more depth and intellect than a 30 second TikTok video!

Thanks to all our readers who have made us who we are today. We will continue to work hard to be worthy of your time each month.

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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(757) 567-9354 © 2023 Connector Magazines is published by Michelle@ConnectorMagazines.com 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 date. Corrections should be forwarded to Publisher at office@connectormagazines.com for consideration. Paid connecting communities, one neighborhood at a time connecting communities advertisements or advertorials contained herein are one neighborhood at a do time not endorsed or recommended

by Publisher and 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 | CO N N ECTO R M AGA Z I N E S.CO M

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CONTENTS 7

OUR EXPERTS Look For Our Local Experts and Shop Local

8 CONNECTOR ARTISTS: YEAR IN REVIEW Looking back at the work of this year’s featured artists 16 COVER STORY 22 LOCAL MARKETPLACE, NETWORKING & EVENTS 25 NON PROFITS Giving Back to those that Give

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December

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Connector

s t s i t r A YEAR IN REVIEW

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

C L AY T O N

Singleton

Clayton’s blend of verbal and visual art inspires, motivates, and educates. His use of realist-expressionism is realized through a style that is both academic and freestyle. Clayton has created public art, won numerous awards, and produced several solo and group shows including Walking on Paper at ArtWorks gallery, Recent Works: Art Installation Performance at SONO gallery and Look Beyond at d’ART Center @The Selden, which benefited The Autism Society of Tidewater. The Virginia Opera commissioned Clayton to design sets for Porgy and Bess and Freedom’s Journey. Clayton has served as a member of Norfolk’s AllCity Teaching Team, The d’ART Center Board of Directors and Norfolk Arts Commission.

His inspiration comes from everyday living and the lives of everyday people. He says,

“the juxtaposition of images and words provides metaphor for the reality of our lives, branching to the possibilities of our dreams.”

L

ooking back at the work of this year’s featured artists, I saw pieces that were so different. Each artist has such an individual style. They all communicate something beautiful but different and reach out and speak to me in a unique way.

I’m not an art critic, but I think art should communicate a message or thought that is worth exploring. I love this year’s artists because they have an ability to evoke emotions and convey messages that may be difficult to express in words. To me, art has always been a way to escape a rough day, explore new ideas, and find beauty in the world around me. Sometimes art challenges the status quote or provokes discussion. Whatever we see in it, art is an important part of our coastal community. That’s

why we feature a different artist every month in Virginia Connector.

Here in our final issue of 2023, we wanted to again promote the unique local artists that make it happen, in the hope of bringing even more attention to their many talents. If you are interested in purchasing original art at an affordable price, please visit our artist’s websites or Facebook pages. I invite you to look at all their artwork or visit places like the Beach Gallery to see it in person. You might find a unique piece that you want to display in your home.

Here’s wishing our artists and all of you a joyous holiday season.

—Michelle Westberry

TESSA HALL

Duquette

Tessa is electrifying the Virginia Beach community one mural at a time. Her background includes a natural artistic ability, an art degree from the University of Vermont, and a love of creativity. From coastal flowers to seashells to oceanfront wildlife, she loves to capture the essence of beach living in order to make her Virginia Beach community that much brighter. When she’s not hard at work painting a new mural, you can find Tessa riding her beach cruiser barefoot down the boardwalk, hosting a neighborhood porch party with her husband, or tie-dyeing with her three sons.

“As a Shadowlawn resident and creative working in the heart of Virginia Beach’s ViBe Creative District, I often dreamed of painting the blank walls I passed on my daily bike commute. I’ve been overjoyed to watch this little beach town transform over the years and now it’s my absolute pleasure to be a part of the magic.”

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Connector

Artists YEAR IN REVIEW POETRY

Jackson

Poetry Jackson is a visionary visual artist and poet whose creations captivate the senses and ignite the imagination. With a profound love for the arts and a deep commitment to community engagement, she has emerged as a dynamic force in the art world.

Poetry Jackson brings together a kaleidoscope of colors, symbols, and intricate details to craft works of art that delve into the realms of identity, philosophy, and spirituality. Her pieces are masterfully crafted, inviting viewers to explore the nuances of social, racial, and cultural issues through a visual language that speaks directly to the heart.

In addition to her artistic pursuits, Poetry Jackson actively contributes to the local arts community through her involvement in nonprofit organizations and public art committees. By serving on the boards of these esteemed institutions,

Poetry Jackson plays a pivotal role in advocating for the arts and fostering an environment that nurtures creativity and cultural growth.

ABBY

Pawley

Abby is a full-time artist and muralist. She is a locally recognized and selftaught artist. She started her artistic journey at only five years old. Growing up she excelled at drawing but found her true expertise with oil & acrylic painting when she turned 18.

She is well known for her large-scale vibrant murals. She took part in the 2021 ViBe Creative District Mural Festival and has done a multitude of murals ever since. She has sold many commission pieces such as canvases and surf boards that now hang in many establishments across the country. She went outside of her realm and won the 2019 beer label contest at Back Bay Brewing Company and now creates beer labels for Wasserhund Brewing Company on a regular basis. She discovered a burning passion creating realistic oil paintings of the female figure. She wants to make a statement

with her provocative oil paintings, that women’s bodies are temples that should be hung on walls to be admired and not objectified.

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

Connector

Artists YEAR IN REVIEW KENDALL

Synder

Kendall Snyder, ‘KendiiArt’, is a local Vibe District artist known for her bright, bold and colorful works of art. It wasn’t until Kendall moved to VA Beach that she truly found her own unique style and love of painting. The subjects of her work range from sea life to space astronauts, but has become a ‘go-to’ for creating custom pet portraits. You can

find her dog portraits everywhere from the VIBE district community fence mural, on the back of tee shirts to the side of beer cans at your local brewery. She was a curator of “Aunt Flo’s Art Show” for a number of years as well as a featured artist in “Art of the Vibe 3” exhibit through the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art. She has been involved in local pop-up shows such as Vibrant Shore Brewing “Dog Days of Summer’, Back Bay Brewery’s “Artist Block” and a featured artist at Zeke’s Beans & Bowls. She is always available for commissioned requests, and can be contacted through her social pages on Facebook & Instagram @KendiiArt

MIA

Guile Mia was an intercontinental citizen before moving to Virginia.

Her global trekking has influenced all aspects of her life.

STEPHIE

Jones

Stephie is a coastal artist based in Virginia Beach who is well known for her range of captivating interpretations of oysters. She 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.

She is inspired by the colors and textures of the coastal life around her. Beyond oysters, she also enjoys painting oceans, waves, and beach scenes. Her favored mediums are acrylics and watercolor because they are so versatile and really allow for color play. Stephie was honored to be

Her academic background includes the study of visual arts, post graduate education in social work, and training in expressive art therapies. Mia is a mother to 2 grown children, was a social worker, and university educator.

Currently, Mia works as an abstract expressionist style painter.

As a community member, she’s active in several roles. She’s a Commissioner for the Arts and Humanities Commission, Treasurer of the Vibe Creative District Friends Board, and a member of the Public Art Committee for Cultural Affairs. She has been a docent for MOCA, and a judge for several juried shows, including the national Scholastic Awards.

asked to be the 2019 Virginia Beach Neptune Festival Poster artist and learned it was a top seller once sales were tallied.

11 | DECE M B E R 2 0 2 3

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REINVENTING CHRISTMAS

By Richard Lederer

IN 1822, THE REVEREND CLEMENT CLARKE MOORE, a literature professor at a theological seminary in New York City, wrote for his children what many believe is the best-known poem in the English language, “A Visit from Saint Nicholas.”

Usually titled “The Night Before Christmas” Moore’s Claus, his plump and jolly white-bearded look, his means of transportation, the names of his reindeer, and the tradition of his delivering toys to boys and girls on Christmas Eve. On the night before Christmas, many parents read this poem to their children.

Later in the nineteenth century, another New Yorker, Thomas Nast, enlarged the image of Santa Claus with his artist’s pen and brush. Known as the Father of the American Cartoon, Nast remembered that when he was a little boy in southern Germany, every Christmas a fat old man gave toys and cakes to children. So, when he sketched and painted Santa, his portraits looked like the kindly old man of his childhood.

Santa Claus had been represented in various ways, , , the course of thirty years of drawing for Harper’s Weekly magazine, he baked into our culture his image of Santa Claus, his jolly girth, his white beard and moustache, his bright red-and-white-trimmed coat, trousers, and hat, his black belt and boots, and his sack of toys. He also drew Mrs. Claus and set the Clauses’ workshop at the North Pole.

Across the sea in England, Charles Dickens was born into an impoverished family. His father served a term in debtors’ prison, and Charles worked as a child laborer in a London boot-blacking factory. From such unpromising origins, he rose to become the best-selling writer of his time and one of the most enduring and quotable writers of all time. The rags-to-riches life of Charles Dickens became more fantastic than any of his stories.

In 1843, within the brief compass of six weeks, Dickens gave the world A Christmas Carol Christmas present is towering. The story’s glowing message, the importance of charity and good will toward all humankind, struck a resonant chord in England and the United States and deepened the celebration of the holiday.

Although Christmases in eastern England were rarely snowy, Dickens’s backdrop of a blizzardy London in his Carol stuck with readers and helped create our expectations of a “White Christmas.”

Today, we’re likely to call anyone who is not in the Christmas spirit a Scrooge and give them a sarcastic “Bah! Humbug!” Most of us know that we owe this phrase to Charles Dickens, but hardly anyone realizes that he also popularized the greeting “Merry Christmas.” Ebenezer Scrooge’s visiting nephew greets his uncle with it in , , Christmas’ on his lips should be boiled with his own pudding and buried with a stake of holly through his , readers’ minds and hearts.

Without Charles Dickens’s slim stack of messy manuscript pages that came to be known as A Christmas Carol, Christmas today might still be a relatively minor holiday with no carolers and no large family gatherings for turkey dinners.

15 | 15 DECE M B E RB2ER 023 | D ECEM 2023

FITNESS ISN’T COMPLEX; IT TAKES A COMMUNITY

By Thomas Marshall

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

Some may be skeptical of buzzwords and weary of spending your time thinking about these words. Against your will, you may find your eyes glaze over and ears fill with a faint humming sound when buzzwords are brought up.

One of those buzzwords is community, or sense of community.

The word is thrown around a lot to describe various groups and places. The problem here is that, sometimes at heart, a buzzword does mean something and can perfectly describe something.

If you hear a buzzword once, it might be a one-off. But if five different people in the span of an hour independently tell you that a place has a sense of community and is family, you pay attention!

Such was the case when I decided to pop in on Gym & Juice, located by the Town Center City Club, for a workout. I immediately felt a feeling of fellowship with others and a sharing of common interests and goals.

“Community is why Gym & Juice is so successful,” says Daniella Celia, personal trainer. “You get family here. I’ve been to all the other guys and membership only lasts a few months.”

Recently, a heavier set woman came into Gym & Juice. She had to take her shoes off because her feet hurt. She received a free one on one consultation with Daniella so she could understand her situation and own her new health and fitness plan. She began to eat a healthier diet and learned to workout comfortably three times a week. In just two weeks under the direction of Daniella, the swelling in her feet began to subside and she didn’t have to take her shoes off.

“It isn’t all about losing weight,” says Daniella. “It’s a healthier attitude and mindset and feeling like a different person.”

The group fitness classes are instructed by nationally certified instructors and personal trainers who are well educated in the most effective, safe, and efficient ways to train the body. The classes keep people coming back and there is always something new. The classes are smaller, and everybody is pretty much the same athletic level so there is no pressure.

The instructor for my 30-minute class was Tahj Coleman who

made sure that the 10 people in the class were doing things properly. I definitely used muscles I haven’t in a while. It felt great, with an appropriate amount of soreness the next day, and kept me focused on my plan to have a “soft landing” when I am 90.

“Point that toe, squeeze that glute and hammy,” he instructed.

“Let’s do the Russian twist to engage those abs.”

Edward Pak was one of the participants in my class. Mr. Pak said after class, “I live in Town Center and feel like they are an extension of my family. 30-minute classes are just enough intensity for me to feel exhausted but also exhilarated.”

Tahj adds, “People fall in and fall out. It becomes routine when you have a support system. My goal is to give people the recipe.”

In addition to personal training and group exercise, they have 24-7 secure access to an open gym. They offer a variety of top of the line, state-of-the-art pristine equipment ranging from treadmill, ellipticals, Concept D rowing machines and stair climbers. Equipped with plenty of free weights, med balls, battle ropes, squat racks, and cable machines and so much more you will not be standing around waiting for your next exercise. I jumped right on the treadmill with no wait and knocked out a few miles while watching ESPN. Their secure locker room felt like home (actually a lot better than home). It was spacious with plenty of lockers available. I have gone to other fitness clubs and VB Recreation Centers and the Gym & Juice locker rooms are the best in the area. The showers were spa-like. In every shower stall in the men’s room there was scent of cedarwood body wash and Fiji coconut shampoo. When I got home after my shower, Floppy (my dog) sniffed me vigorously and then put his nose in the air. Daddy didn’t smell like him anymore.

“The staff here is very professional and has such positive energy,” said Ms. Cara Hines who was working out on the elliptical. “I have a 1-year old, the 24 hour secure access is great and I feel part of a wonderful community of people.”

17 | DECE M B E R 2 0 2 3

Senior Health

Benefits of Companion Animals for Older Adults Throughout the years, older adults in the United States have become more and more isolated. Social isolation, which leads to feelings of loneliness, is the cause of many serious health risks. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Social isolation significantly increased a person’s risk of premature death from all causes, a risk that may rival those of smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity”. Additionally, social isolation increases the risk of dementia by 50%, heart disease by 29 percent, and stroke by 32 percent.

Loneliness due to social isolation is also associated with higher risk of depression, anxiety, and suicide.

The list goes on, but what can we do about this growing epidemic?

Companion Animals The benefits of companion animals for older adults are numerous. What is particularly striking is how creating a bond with an animal can reduce a person’s susceptibility to diseases associated with old age, as well as lowering blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels.

“An extensive number of studies in a wide range of journals and disciplines support that interactions with pets contribute to good health and quality of life and healing from serious illnesses and conditions,” says Dr. Maria Iliopoulou, an alumna of the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine.

limitations, or mental challenges.

Many licensed emotional support or therapy animals will be trained to require as little care from their owners as possible, and “service dogs” may even help the individual in their day-to-day activities. These animals, which are almost exclusively dogs, must meet certain criteria and are assessed for temperament, shedding, sociability, and adaptability.

There are two ways to bring a therapy dog or service dog into your home. First, you may adopt, train, and get a dog certified on your own, or contact a local therapy dog provider in your area.

The role of a therapy dog is to provide psychological or physiological therapy to individuals other than their handlers. These are typically the dogs that are brought into hospitals and nursing homes because of their stable temperaments and laid-back personalities.

Comparatively, service animals are trained to assist their handler in activities that eases their disability.

For instance, a dog trained to alert their handler with a visual impairment to danger while crossing the street is an example of a service dog. Service dogs empower a person with disabilities to live more independently. These individuals are protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), so that they may be accompanied by their service animals in such places as restaurants and stores. Therapy dogs do not experience the same level of protection.

History of Pet Therapy A little known fact is that “pet therapy” began in ancient Greece (600 BC). According to TherapyDogs.com, they were the first to employ companion animals specifically horses to treat the severely ill. Animal-assisted therapy was not seen again until the 1600s when once again physicians turned to horses to improve the health of their patients. Florence Nightingale also noted the many benefits of small companion animals on patient health, but it wasn’t until the 1960’s that research into animal therapy began in earnest.

Now, many hospitals, nursing homes, and doctors utilize companion animals to help their patients and clients. In fact, many hospitals have licensed therapy dogs, accompanied by volunteers, that will visit patients in their rooms. These dogs go through rigorous training to ensure they will be a help and not a hindrance in a hospital setting. In a recent study, 99 percent of nursing homes in Ohio reported that animal companions were allowed in their facilities, citing that the benefits outweighed the risk.

Finding the Right Fit Whether choosing a therapy, service, or companion animal, all three will serve to diminish isolation and loneliness while improving the health of their human partner. Yet, there are a few more things to consider before choosing an animal companion. For instance, is the individual comfortable living with pet hair, a little box, or any wear and tear on the home?

Consider where the pet will live. Whether renting a home, or living in a nursing home, permission from the property owner will most likely be required. The age of an animal also plays a role, as younger pets like puppies or kittens require much more work than their more mature counterparts. Beyond cats and dogs, some notable companion animals include ferrets, rabbits, birds, and pot-bellied pigs. It is important to take into account the size and general temperament of each animal.

Regardless of which animal companion you choose, pet ownership diminishes feelings of loneliness, improves cardiovascular health and adaptive stress, and is an indicator of long-term survival in patients who have experienced a heart attack. Seen in this light, a loving furry friend may make all the difference to an older adult.

Choosing a Therapy Dog, Service Dog, or Companion Animal When choosing a companion animal for an older adult it is important to consider if they have any allergies, physical

Article Courtesy of the CDC

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

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

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Eat Well

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

I

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

By Patrick Evans-Hylton

enjoyed hundreds over the years, including at the famed Buena Vista in San Francisco. But rum is such a favored flavor during the holidays, that I developed my Caribbean Coffee. Here’s how I make it:

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 Connector.

EAT DRINK

Since 1988 Aldo’s Ristorante has been one of the region’s top Italian restaurants, with an approachable cuisine and style.

I’m in love with Aldo’s Linguine with Fresh Clam Sauce. Here, a large bowl is filled with a half-dozen local littleneck clams resting on a bed of linguine.

You get an option of red or white sauce; I usually pick red.

This dish is filled with authentic flavors.

The pasta is tender, and the long strands the perfect platform for the remaining ingredients. The impeccably fresh baby clams throughout compliment the locally-caught shellfish atop, all with a delicious brininess to them. That flavor compliments the decadent, rich sauce, which had just enough heat to it. The nice drizzle of oil and the addition of the Italian classic seasonings - garlic and parsley, was the perfect addition.

Aldo’s Ristorante is at 1860 Laskin Rd., Virginia Beach. Call 757-491-1111 or visit www.AldosVB.com

Whiskey sours have long been a favorite cocktail of mine. I love the way the whiskey is brighter up with a fresh pop of citrus, making it one refreshing imbibe.

From all the creative cocktails at Eurasia, the Lillet in the Rye caught my attention. Here is a delicious rendition of the classic whiskey sour, with a wonderful blend of Knob Creek Rye, Lillet Blanc, Cointreau, simple syrup, and lemon juice.

The grassy heat of the rye was a beautiful platform for the drink, lifted with the sweetness of the Lillet, a lovely aperitif wine, and the orangey profile of the Cointreau. The simple syrup sweetened things up, and the lemon juice brought a delicious sourness to the party.

Eurasia Cafe is at 960 Laskin Rd., Virginia Beach. Call 757-422-0184 or visit www.EurasiaVB.com

DO Welcome guests in from the cold with our Caribbean Coffee, a fun twist on the classic Irish coffee.

I consider myself a bit of an Irish coffee connoisseur, having

21 | DECE M B E R 2 0 2 3

Preheat a glass mug by filling with hot water, letting sit a moment, then emptying it.

Pour hot coffee in the mug about 3/4 full, and add 1 tablespoon Demerara sugar, a quality raw sugar, and stir until sugar is dissolved.

Add and stir in a dash of orange liqueur and 2 ounces premium spiced rum; we prefer Four Farthing Spiced Rum from Virginia Beach’s Chesapeake Bay Distillery (www.ChesapeakeBayDistillery.com).

This is a historically-based, artisan rum that I developed in partnership with the distillery. Top with freshly whipped cream and a dash of nutmeg.

Patrick Evans-Hylton is a Johnson & Wales-trained chef and Virginiabased award-winning food journalist, covering tasty culinary trends in print, radio, television, and online since 1995. Read him at VirginiaEatsAndDrinks.com

Patrick EvansHylton is a Johnson & Wales-trained chef and Virginiabased 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 H a p p y hou r e x p ert s erv e s u p networking with a smile.

By Thomas Marshall

Novembers event @ Wasserhund Brewing Company

Jake Maines has put his marketing knowledge into action for the benefit of local businesses. Every month, he hosts a “Networking Happy Hour” at a different bar or restaurant in Virginia Beach. What started as a networking event for 40 of his friends has now become the largest monthly networking event in Hampton Roads.

“It has taken on a life of its own,” said Jake. “People were tired of zoom meetings at the end of pandemic, so I decided to invite friends out for happy hour.”

Jake recently celebrated the two-year anniversary of “Networking Happy Hour” at Fisher’s Neighborhood Kitchen.

“I couldn’t believe that 120 people showed up to our anniversary,” said Jake. “So many people have done business together from our events.”

One person who started with Jake and doesn’t miss the monthly event is Jordan Washnieski. A mechanic by trade, he is the owner of SolOrphanage, which specializes in fixing lost or broken solar equipment and helping forgotten about solar customers. Most of his customers purchased solar but lost their service plans when their solar company went out of business.

“If you need something that person is probably coming to Jake’s event,” says Jordan. “I recently met a guy who does account processing and another decal and marketing person.”

Another person who has consistently attended since May has been Ray Fadness,

owner of Bridge Apparel Company, which specializes in custom apparel, screen printing, and promotional products. Ray is just 21 years old but has created a thriving business thanks in part to the Networking Happy Hour. About 20% of his business comes from the connections he makes at the event.

“I met a new marketing company that has sent me three leads already,” said Ray. “They were for a Mexican restaurant, construction company, and a junk removal company.”

“We are always looking for ways to help you set yourself apart from the crowd.” says Jake. “I take pride in being genuine and wanting to help people connect.”

Networking Happy Hour: The Networking Happy Hour is always on the first Wednesday of the month. Go to networkinghh.com to get on the invite list, or by scanning the QR code below.

Cheers, Jake Maines

REGISTER FOR NETWORKING HAPPY HOUR!

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

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

YEAR IN REVIEW Are

s e i t i Char Moving the Needle?

By Michelle Westberry, Publisher

I

like leaving the writing up to the writers. But when it comes to charitable causes I care about, I can’t help but insert myself. Each month, Virginia Connector features a different charity in the hope of raising awareness for a different cause or community service.

When I founded Virginia Connector in November 2021, I made a pledge to donate at least a page of free advertising to at least one charity a month. As a youth raised by someone other than my parents, I hold a lot of these charities to heart. By bringing happiness to children and others, and attention to causes that don’t have big marketing dollars, I can give them the attention that they need and deserve.

The magazine’s charitable work has given me incredible joys that have stuck with me. Seeing first-hand what people have had to endure and are able to overcome has made me a better person. But if I’m being totally honest, I have also given to charity out of “enlightened self-interest.” If our community is in decline, if we have higher unemployment and homelessness, and higher youth disconnection, for example, those problems will negatively impact our readers, our economy, and thus our ability as a magazine to survive and thrive.

I am proud to have raised awareness of so many charities in 2023.

But as a whole, are we moving the needle on the societal issues that we have written so much about? Are our readers’ checks and fundraisers and volunteer hours really making a difference?

Based on reports produced by the Social Science Research Council, Hampton Roads has dropped from 35,200 disconnected youth in 2015 to 19,800 in 2023. It has taken hundreds of charities and thousands of caring people to accomplish this amazing change. I can say with confidence that your investments are making life better. It all adds up.

In 2023, Virginia Connector featured several charities focused on disconnected youth and women and families in need. One was StandUp for Kids that helps homeless and disconnected youth ages 12-24. Their mission is to end the cycle of youth homelessness by any means necessary. Each year they serve about 1,600 youth with more than 6,000 meals.

Another group was Samaritan House which helps individuals and families free themselves from domestic violence, human trafficking, 25 | DECE M B E R 2 0 2 3

sexual assault, and homelessness by providing emergency and permanent affordable housing, holistic support services, and community education. Another group, EnJewel, provides equality and justice for women and works to eradicate human trafficking.

The Judeo-Christian Outreach Center, whose October gala I was privileged to attend, is working to eliminate homelessness in Virginia Beach; tackle recidivism; and ensure homelessness is rare, brief, and non-recurring. Todd Walker, the Executive Director of the JCOC, has implemented evidence-based practices to attain this goal by eliminating barriers to housing.

We as a community need the safety net services that these organizations provide – they catch youth and families when they are down - but we also need services that PREVENT problems like homelessness and unemployment in the first place. Together We Can Foundation’s Smart Transitions program provides disconnected youth the life skills and career skills they need to transition to adult independence and the workforce. When someone has meaningful employment they earn a living wage, get private health insurance so they are connected to the health care system, stay connected to the workforce and community, and gain a sense of pride.

Some charities highlighted in 2023 give us the art, beauty, and community connections that make coastal Virginia so special. Each time I visit Virginia MOCA at the oceanfront, I am reminded that there are some things in life that are so beautiful they are simply too difficult to put into words. MOCA collects, preserves, and interprets the art of our time. The Phillipine Cultural Center of Virginia preserves and perpetuates their beautiful culture and traditions and connects Filipino youth, seniors and families to each other.

Last but certainly not least are charities such as The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society which is dedicated to creating a world without blood cancers. Cancer has touched us all in one way or another.

Cancer patients need help, hope and support – and you. We again featured Juneteenth to bring attention to the official date when slavery was abolished throughout the country. We also announced a series of arts and cultural events to celebrate Juneteenth.

We hope you will visit the websites of these charities and consider a gift that is generous for yourself because I know that you want disconnected youth and our community to succeed. Please give online to the charity that most touches your heart.

You’d be surprised how far $50 goes.

Standup For Kids, Hampton Roads https://www.standupforkids.org/donate/ MOCA https://virginiamoca.org/ ADR https://alldistrictreads.org/donate/ Leukemia https://donate.lls.org/voy/donate PCCOV (Philippine Cultural Center of Virginia) philippineculturalcenter.com JCOC https://jcoc.org/#donate TWC www.twcfoundation.org EnJewel https://enjewel.org/donate/ Samaritan House www.samaritanhouseva.org

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

MARKETPLACE ONGOING: December 17; 11am to 2pm Peabody’s Comedy Brunch www.VBhotdeals.com Tickets $2.50 only on VBhotdeals.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 Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday Game nights at Warriors Taphouse - Free Get discounted food and drink vouchers on VBhotdeals.com Dec 13, 20 & 27 and every Wednesday in January, 7 to 10pm Karl’s Open Mic Beach Barracuda’s 1479 General Booth Blvd, Virginia Beach October 21 & 22, 11am to 6pm

EVENTS

Virginia Beach boardwalk beacheventsvb.com $30 per car

December 16, 9am to 12pm Old Beach Farmer’s Market 620 19th Street, Virginia Beach oldbeachfarmersmarket.com Sundays from 9am to 7pm Sunday Dog Days at Norfolk Botanical Gardens Explore the Gardens with your Canine Best Friend norfolkbotanicalgarden.org November and December, dates vary Norfolk Admirals Hockey Norfolk Scope Cost: $22 to $56 For more information: norfolkadmirals.com Ongoing Sports at Old Dominion University ODU Foreman Field at S.B. Ballard Stadium Football and more.

Ticket prices vary odusports.com

November 24 to December 23 Snowglobe Spectacular Virginia Beach Town Center towncentervb.com Free December 1-23, 5 to 8pm (days vary) Santa and Mrs. Clause in Holiday Globe & Live entertainment Virginia Beach Town Center towncentervb.com Free Ongoing thru December 31; 5 to 9pm Garden of Lights Norfolk Botanical Gardens $12 to $20 norfolkbotanicalgarden.org

November 17 - December 31, 5:30 to 10pm Holiday Lights at the Beach

SELF-EFFICACY

BY S U E L E B R ATO

What is the difference between someone who is successful and someone who is not? Certainly the skills necessary to do the work are required. Noted psychologist Albert Bandura, defined “Self-Efficacy”, as the belief in oneself to succeed. This characteristic is critical in one’s motivation and resilience. Successful people believe their efforts will be successful and that catalyzes their perseverance.

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Some strategies to improve self-efficacy include: 1. Focus on increasing experience in the area of interest to improve competence.

2. Observe positive role models and learn from their experiences.

3. Engage in positive affirmation, and accept positive feedback from others.

4. Manage and mitigate self-doubt through mindfulness, or meditation practices.

Encouraging children, teens, and adults to develop self-efficacy through supporting their goals and achievements will enable belief in themselves.

Coaching can support a focus on self-efficacy. If someone in your life could use this coaching, what a wonderful holiday gift that would make!

Reach out to You’re Amazing! at slebrato@me.com for an appointment. Happy Holidays!

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27 | DECE M B E R 2 0 2 3

MARKETPLACE ONGOING: Ongoing thru December 24; times vary A Merry Little Christmas Carol Wells Theatre $15 to $80 vastage.org December 2, 12 to 8pm Holiday Yule Log Bonfire and Christmas Market Town Point Park festevents.org Free December 2, 7:30pm Holiday Pops! Virginia Symphony Orchestra Chrysler Hall virginiasymphony.org $25 - $119 December 3, 8pm Josh Gates Chrysler Hall sevenvenues.com $36 to $56h

EVENTS

December 3, 7pm Kat Timpf - You can’t Joke About That Live Attucks Theatre sevenvenues.com $39 to $65

December 12 - 17; times vary Beetlejuice Chrysler Hall sevenvenues.com/events $40 to $80

December 4, 7:30pm The 2023 Tidewater Winds Annual Holiday Concert: Winter Winds Sandler Center for the Performing Arts sandlercenter.org $25

December 15, 7pm Mark Normand - Ya Don’t Say Tour Harrison Opera House sevenvenues.com/events $32 to $57

December 8, 7pm; December 9, 2pm Elf in Concert Chrysler Hall sevenvenues.com/events $52 to $77 December 9, 6 to 10pm A Classy Western Soiree - 8th Annual Heart’s and Hoofbeats Fundraiser for Vanguard Landing The Venue at Denali Jean Ranch VanguardLanding.org $125 single / $225 couple

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December 15-17, times vary Ballet Virginia’s The Nutcracker Sandler Center for the Performing Arts sandlercenter.org $25 - $65 December 19, 7:30pm Vienna Boys Choir - Christmas in Vienna Sandler Center for the Performing Arts sandlercenter.org $37 to $87

Eat Well

Fa n ta s t i c W h i t e Bean Chicken Chili

By Linda Gann Stiles (This recipe is slightly adapted by Kelley Drake.)

Servings: 10 2 Tbsp. olive oil 8- chicken breast halves, skin on, bone-in, makes chicken more flavorful & moist Kosher salt & ground black pepper 2- medium onions, chopped 2 1/2 cups chicken broth 1 tsp. dried oregano 1 tsp. dried cilantro 2 tsps. All-purpose seasoning (I recommend Everglades Seasoning ‘Monkey Dust’) 1- jalapeno pepper, diced, with stems & seeds removed 6- cans of Great Northern beans, drained (you can use any white bean) 5- green onions, chopped OR 2 Tbsp. dried chives (I used the chives) 2- pkgs. McCormick white chili mix 2 Tbsp. minced garlic, fresh or jarred

Season chicken breast liberally with kosher salt & pepper then bake @ 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes. Add any juices from the baked chicken into the pot along with chicken stock.

While chicken is baking, add olive oil to stock pot & sautee chopped onions, till translucent. Add chicken stock & remaining ingredients, UNLESS you are using the green or scallions, if so add when serving. Bring to a slight boil, then reduce heat to a low to medium heat.

Remove chicken skin and bones, dice chicken into bite size pieces, taking care to remove all small bones & add to pot. Simmer 10-15 mins and serve.

29 | DECE M B E R 2 0 2 3

MARKETPLACE EVENTS ViBe EVENTS (through December) 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?

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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!

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Contact us today to schedule a complimentary retirement review!

December 31, 6pm Last Night on the Town - New Year’s Eve Event The Movement with Special Guests The Collection and Ries Brothers Virginia Beach Town Center lastnightonthetown.com Free with VIP Tickets Available December 31, 9pm New Year’s Eve Party Cavalier Hotel, Virginia Beach cavalierresortvb.com Cost TBA December 31 2023 New Year’s Eve Party Hilton The Main, Norfolk themainnorfolk.com $50 www.vibecreativedistrict.org

ACTON ACADEMY Hampton Roads

Children’s Business Fair Saturday December 9th 12:00 PM - 2:30 PM

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

Selden Market 208 E Main St, Norfolk, VA 23510

(757) 807-9505 www.hrretire.com

Ready for a day of high-energy fun and entrepreneurship?

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Come check out the unique creations made by young masterminds, and help support the next generation of entrepreneurs!

We welcome sponsors and volunteers to join us in making this event a wild success.

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

Contact Megan for more information: 757-981-6641 or Megan@ActonAcademyHR.com

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

Senior Health

Tips for staying active after age 65 It’s common to hear people say they feel overwhelmed by the idea of being physically active, and that they have no idea where to start. That sense of pressure can be discouraging and cause many people to postpone making positive changes in their behavior.

The unfortunate truth is that physical inactivity takes a significant toll on older adults in America. Rates of inactivity increased 6% to more than 31% nationwide among adults age 65 and older who were in average health between 2018 and 2021. That number has continued to climb in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to America’s Health Rankings Senior Report.

Physical inactivity contributes to many chronic conditions, including cardiovascular disease, obesity and diabetes - all of which can reduce a person’s mobility, independence and quality of life.

The good news is getting active doesn’t have to be difficult, time-consuming or expensive. In fact, almost everyone can take steps to work more activity into their daily lives, even from the comfort of home. The benefits are clear - even as little as five minutes of activity every day can make a difference. Physical activity can help improve your brain health, manage weight, reduce the risk of disease, strengthen bones and muscles, and improve your ability to do everyday activities.

Regular exercise can also help you feel better and build relationships. In fact, recent research from AARP Services Inc., UnitedHealthcare and OptumLabs showed moderate or high physical activity helps reduce severe loneliness and social isolation by 15% to 30%, and also helps increase feelings of resilience and purpose and improve people’s perception of aging.

Here are five tips to help you become more physically active and put yourself on the road to better health and quality of life: •

Start small. Remember the old adage, “Rome wasn’t built

in a day”? That goes for starting a new exercise regimen, as well as for building strength and stamina. It’s OK to start with just a few minutes at first, and then build gradually from five, 10 or 15 minutes of movement to eventually 30 or more.

•

Make a plan. Most new routines require some level of preparation. Decide what activity you would like to do whether it’s walking, following an exercise video at home or taking a fitness class - and plan a regular routine, so it’s easier to follow through.

•

Get comfortable. Choose clothing that’s easy to move in and is appropriate for the environment. If an activity requires lots of extra gear, equipment or skills, consider choosing something you can do with what you have. The important thing is to get moving!

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Find a buddy. Exercising with a friend can be fun and rewarding. It’s a great way to socialize and build friendships and can also be a strong motivator or cause for celebration when you meet your shared goals.

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Check out resources that may be available to you. Many Medicare Advantage health plans offer benefits like free gym memberships. Talk to your health plan to see what’s available to you.

For more information about UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans, visit www.UHCMedicareHealthPlans.com.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for the advice of a doctor. Consult your doctor prior to beginning an exercise program or making changes to your lifestyle or health care routine.

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DALE S. WHITE

MEDICARE SPECIALIST AGENT

Your hometown insurance group – specializing in Medicare Coverage for our neighbors in and around Hampton Roads.

Free Healthcare Assesment No Commitment Medicare Explained in Clear Terms DALE S. WHITE

(757) 650-2500 daleswhite@integritymedicareva.com