Virginia Connector March 2023

WOMEN OF THE

Neighbors!

already 2023? In what felt like such a from warm weather and overcrowded Oceanfront to golden silence and frigid special in this way. It's a place where you but not too much of just one; a place bike, golf, camp and more all year great place to call home.

PUBLISHER Brad Weber Local Umbrella, Inc

FOUNDER/CO-PUBLISHER 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

March brings spring to Virginia Beach with temperatures gradually warming up and the beginnings of colorful flowers beginning to peek out here and there. In this month’s edition we are celebrating Women’s International Day. From leaders in our communities to those in the home and workplace, us women get the job done.

Virginia Connector is upping its game to respect and attention to all of our local including but not limited to: anchor sponsors, local businesses, contributors, networking residents. When we say we welcome your feedback...we really do! In fact, you the very best content possible. Is there something you'd like to magazine? Do you know of something interesting happening or know contributes to our community in a special way? Tell us about it!

Inside we have featured some local ladies of the arts, realtors, women of influence in our communities, interior design and decorating, financial advisors, home improvement and more.

CONTRIBUTORS Soup Love, Stable Hands Pet Service, Visit Virginia

CONTENT Robin Williams, Richard Lederer, Sue Lebrato

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY

Bryte Eye Productions

With the warmer weather also comes local events. Please be sure to check out our calendar of events and marketplace section to see what is coming up!

Don’t miss this months ongoing monthly article “Chefs and what Inspires Them”. Also included is some history on St. Patrick’s Day and some preventive tips on pet safety.

like to extend special thanks to local artist Matthew Weimer for cover such a great artistic expression of iconic area landmarks. Also is local resident and CEO Heyward Donigan of Rite Aid. Mrs. Donigan connect our bigger brands with our local communities, Just this past fall, Rite the 10-day Mural Festival and had wall art created by our very own local you haven’t seen it, be sure to ride by it on Virginia Beach Boulevard in truly a work of art!

Hope you enjoy this month’s edition. As always, we would love to hear your feedback and keep us informed on local events, nonprofits and those with great stories to share.

© 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 date. Corrections should be forwarded to Publisher at office@connectormagazines.com for consideration. Paid advertisements or advertorials contained herein are not endorsed or recommended by Publisher and do not reflect publisher's opinion 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.

COMPANIONSHIP

Year bringing a motivational boost to our life goals (and especially our like to personally give a shout-out to local fitness guru Aaron Marshall. personal fitness coach for just over four months now and I can vouch changes in my overall fitness and health I've also lost a total of eight the "Marshall Method" on Page 11 and connect with Aaron in 2023 fills up!).

Virginia! Let's stay VB Strong in 2023!

Please recycle this issue of Virginia Connector

Michelle

IRRIGATION

James Reeves

HYDRA IRRIGATION (757) 917-5652 • hydrairrigation.com

office@hydrairrigation.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Steven Griffin

MILO TREES, INC.

Landscaping & Arborist (757) 381-3313

HOME DECOR & GIFTS

Sharon Ballance

TOPIARIES (757) 437-1183 - topiariesva.com

301 - 25th Street, Virginia Beach VA

TRANSPORTATION — COMMERCIAL

Melissa Hedayatpoor

MTM INTERNATIONAL (407) 914-4866 • shipMTM.com

operations@shipMTM.com

SOLAR ENERGY

John Marshall XPLORE SOLAR (540) 654-0793

john@xploresolar.com

RETAIL — CLOTHING & FASHION

Robin Brickell

ROBIN BOUTIQUE-BOUTIQUE (757) 904-6540 • robin@robinb-b.com

RobinBoutiqueBoutique.com

LEARN MORE ABOUT BECOMING A RECOGNIZED EXPERT IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

Are you a leader in your industry? Do you enjoy helping others with educational content? Want exclusivity in your neighborhood?

MICHELLE WESTBERRY (757) 567-9354

office@hydrairrigation.com

Golf scramble format. Prizes awarded for Top 3 Foursomes,

and

All

MEGAN PARKER

My favorite part about being a Private Banker in the banking industry is building relationships. I love meeting new people, learning about their goals, both professionally and personally, and having the pleasure of being part of helping them achieve those goals. Whether it’s providing the financing for a business to buy their first building or providing them with the working capital to start or grow their business; it’s all HEART work for me and so rewarding to know you are making a difference in others’ lives.

PATRICIA WARDIUS

Dr. Patricia (Patti) Wardens attended Northwestern University on an athletic scholarship to play lacrosse. She graduated in 1990 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Therapy. She was part of a specialized team who provided comprehensive care to patients who sustained burn injuries in a Level 1 trauma center. Dr. Wardius then followed in two of her brothers’ footsteps. She attended Temple University School of Dentistry and graduated Cum Laude in 2005 with a degree in Doctor of Dental Medicine. Dr. Wardius is a native of Pennsylvania where she practiced in her hometown with one of her brothers. After visiting Virginia Beach for multiple years, she decided to relocate. She is passionate about dentistry and how it relates to her patients’ overall health and well being. Dr. Wardius realizes that everyone has unique situations and expectations. Dr. Wardius resides in Virginia Beach with her adopted Greyhounds, Gifted and Prissy. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with the people who are important to her.

ANDREA KILMER

Andrea is CEO of the Garcia Companies. She is a certified public accountant and senior executive with over 40 years of experience in all areas of accounting, finance, administration, and diverse business operations. Her credentials include Class A Contractor in multiple states, multi-state Real Estate Broker and Mortgage Broker among others. Andrea is the past chair of the Virginia Board of Accountancy and served on the Enforcement Committee. Previously, she served on the Virginia Economic and Development Jobs Commission and on Old Dominion University’s Board of Visitors. She has served in various capacities for numerous charities in Hampton Roads. Andrea holds a degree in Accounting from ODU and is a lifelong resident of Virginia Beach.

JOANN EMMONS

For the last 40 years Joann Emmons has been an Independent Insurance Agent for all lines of Insurance: Property & Casualty/Life & Health. It has been a rewarding experience and allowed her the opportunity to satisfy the needs of her clients for all lines of insurance. Planning and meeting with the cities that she would like to see the event take place, executing awesome rides in and around the area selected, then working with City Officials is her passion. She plans special events at the Host Hotel selected and meets the registered attendees from all over. This is rewarding and truly an experience that is like no other. Riding in and around the US and other Countries has truly meant the world to Joann with friendships for a lifetime.

“My favorite part about being a Private Banker in the banking industry is building relationships.”

“This is rewarding and truly an experience that is like no other.”

SUE LEBRATO

Sue Lebrato is President and Principal Consultant. A Human Resources and Business consulting firm based in Virginia Beach. Her practice works with organizations, to “Bridge business and HR strategies for profitability”, and with individuals to “Enhance their life circumstances”. The latter includes coaching, for individuals in career-transition, workforce entry and reentry, and “launching” college graduates. For more than twenty-five years, Sue has led corporate and HR divisions of Fortune 500 companies, both domestic and international, in a variety of industries including international shipping, chemicals, consumer products, professional services, federal and defense contractors.

STELLA WALTZ

Stella Waltz, along with her husband Jesse Waltz, founded JES Foundation Repair in 1993. JES has since become a leader in foundation repair, crawl space moisture management, basement waterproofing solutions, and concrete lifting services for residential and commercial properties. Stella is a Norfolk native who graduated from Booker T. Washington High School and received a BA in Biology from Virginia Wesleyan College. After earning her master’s degree in Community Health Education with an emphasis in Physical Therapy at Old Dominion University, she went on to practice physical therapy in Virginia and Maryland.

RANDOLYN PATTERSON

Randolyn Patterson has been a member of ABNB Federal Credit Union since 2012, she has served on the Supervisory Committee, the Legislative Committee, and was appointed as Vice Chair in 2022. She served 21 years on active duty in the United States Navy, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Excelsior University, and her master’s degree in Leadership and Organization Development from Troy University. After her military service, Randolyn served as Payroll Manager for Tidewater Community College, Norfolk State University, and the College of William and Mary. She is also a member of Gold Star Families, an organization for families who have lost their loved ones in military service.

PAULETTE REED MD

Paullette M.D. Reed started the Intercultural School of Etiquette, to educate youth in the four distinct areas of protocol. As a global traveler, former diplomat and the military spouse of a senior officer, she has been privileged to train students in the disciplines of corporate and cultural protocols from all over the world. While working with these students, she noticed that many of them were fluent in several languages, and as more children attended schools in other countries, they too became both familiar and fluent in other languages. Her desire has been to expose and teach students in Virginia Beach the beauty of other cultures, and the importance of understanding and diplomatically implementing different cultures in diverse situations.

“Her desire has been to expose and teach students in Virginia Beach the beauty of other cultures.”

“Stella Waltz, along with her husband Jesse Waltz, founded JES Foundation Repair in 1993.”

IRISH BULLS

To err is human, to share humor, bovine. So here I am throwing some bull — not just any kind of bull, but, in honor of Saint Patrick’s Day (coming up on March 17), an Irish bull. And while I’m at it, I’ll round up a herd of Irish bulls.

What’s an Irish bull? I’m glad I asked me that. Some dismiss it as a silly blunder born on the Emerald Isle. Others more describe an Irish bull as a statement fueled by a delightful absurdity that sparks forth a memorable truth, such as Oscar Wilde’s spot-on “I can resist anything but temptation.”

When asked the difference between an Irish bull and any other kind of bull, Professor John Pentland Mahaffey of Dublin University replied, “An Irish bull is always pregnant,” providing a definition that is itself an example.

Among the first and most famous specimens is a pronouncement by Sir Boyle Roche, who once asked, “Why should we do anything to put ourselves out of the way for posterity? What has posterity ever done for us?” Irish politics, literature, and folklore are replete with pronouncements that jump to a confusion:

• An Irishman is never at peace except when he’s fighting.

• An Irishman will die before letting himself be buried outside of Ireland.

• I’d give my right arm to be ambidextrous.

• Your Honor, I was sober enough to know I was drunk.

• Gentleman, it appears to be unanimous that we cannot agree.

• Thank God I’m an atheist.

• God bless the Holy Trinity.

• May you never live to see your wife a widow.

• He is the kind of opponent who would stab you in front of your face and then stab you in the chest when your back is turned.

Any assumptions that the Irish have cornered the bull market are completely unwarranted. Some of the best specimens of taurine eloquence thrive far from the green fields of Ireland. Jazz pianist and composer Eubie Blake, who lived to the age of ninety-six, began smoking at six and refused to drink water. He observed, “If I had known I was going to live this long, I’d have taken better care of myself.”

Article written by Richard Lederer

Here are a few more examples of corn-fed American bulls:

• Always be sincere, even if you don’t mean it.

-Harry S. Truman

• My vision is to make California the most diverse state on earth, and we have people from every planet on the earth in this state. -Governor Gray Davis

• I think that gay marriages are something that should be between a man and a woman. -Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger

• There are known knowns. These are things that we know we know. There are known unknowns. That is to say, there are things that we know we don’t know. But there are also unknown unknowns. There are things we don’t know we don’t know.

-Secretary

of Defense

Donald Rumsfeld

Saturday, March 25

10 am to 4 pm

• We have here two incredibly credible witnesses. -Joe Biden, who once exclaimed, “That’s the most unheardof thing I ever heard of!”

• Always go to other people’s funerals. Otherwise, they won’t come to yours. -baseball legend Yogi Berra

• Good pitching always stops good hitting, and vice versa.

-Casey Stengel

• Please accept my resignation. I don’t want to belong to any club that will have me as a member -Groucho Marx

• It’s not that I’m afraid to die. I just don’t want to be there when it happens. -Woody Allen

• Anybody who goes to a psychiatrist ought to have his head examined. -Samuel Goldwyn

• When Irish Words are Smiling, We All Feel Blessed

-Richard Lederer

This is why the sagacious Hobbes, the insightful tiger who prowled Bill Waterston’s late lamented comic strip Calvin and Hobbes, once predicted. “We can eventually make language a complete impediment to everything.”

The Irish are known not only for St. Patrick’s Day (coming up March 17), but also for the lyricism and sentiments of their toasts, often called “blessings.” Across the Irish countryside and throughout Irish folklore, countless toasts and blessings sing of life and hope. On the breastplate of St. Patrick himself appears: “May you be blessed with the strength of heaven, the light of the sun and the radiance of the moon, the splendor of life, and the speed of lightning, the swiftness of the wind, and the depth of the sea, the stability of the earth, and the firmness of rock.”

Long ago, people would place slices of spiced toast into their tankards of ale to improve the favor and remove the impurities. The drink itself became a “toast,” as did the gesture of drinking to another’s good health and long life:

• I drink to the enemy of your enemy.

• May I see you gray and combing your grandchildren’s hair.

• I drink to your coffin. May it be built from the wood of a 100-yearold oak that I shall plant tomorrow.

• May the good Lord take a liking to you, but not too soon.

• May God grant you many years to live. For sure He must be knowing the earth has angels far too few and heaven is overflowing.

• May you live to be a hundred years, with one extra to repent.

• May you live to be a 100 and shot by a jealous husband.

“May the hinges of our friendship never grow rusty,” sings one Irish blessing. From their well wishes, the Irish so obviously cherish friendship and love:

• There are good ships, and there are wood ships, The ships that sail the sea. But the best ships, are friendships, And may they always be.

• to an Irish bachelor: May you have nicer legs than your own under the table before the new spuds are up.

• May the roof above you be well thatched and those gathered beneath it well matched. May the roof above you never fall in, and those gathered beneath it never fall out.

On Christmas Eve the traditional Irish leave their door unlocked and burn a candle in their window. Their blessing

states: “May peace and plenty be the first to lift the latch off your door and happiness be guided to your home by the candle of Christmas.” For the New Year the Irish say, “May your right hand always be stretched out in friendship and never in want.”

If you are lucky enough to be Irish, you are lucky enough. If you are lucky enough to be toasted or blessed by the Irish, you might be favored so:

• May misfortune follow you the rest of your life, and never catch up. May you have food and raiment, a soft pillow for your head. May you be 40 years in heaven before the devil knows you’re dead.

• May the saddest day of your future be no worse than the happiest day of your past.

And most famously and luminously of all:

• May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. And the sun shine warm on your face, the rain fall soft upon your fields, and until we meet again, may God hold you in the hollow of His hand.

WOMEN OF THE

Spruill Labows

EMILY SPRUILL LABOWS City of Virginia Beach Director of Cultural Affairs

Since 2000, Emily Labows has led the Virginia Beach cultural arts program from a small granting agency to an arts leader in Virginia. She works to create innovative programs, stimulate community pride, and make Virginia Beach a more attractive, vibrant city for residents and visitors. She has led the Office of Cultural Affairs, now the Department of Cultural Affairs, since its formation in 2006. In July 2019, her department welcomed the addition of the Virginia Beach History Museums. It married the city’s arts, historic and cultural entities under one umbrella with the singular purpose of engaging residents and visitors through meaningful arts, heritage and cultural experiences that connect and strengthen communities. Ms. Labows oversaw the development and construction of the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts with extensive public participation from citizens and users. Under her leadership, the City’s Public Art Program has placed vibrant murals and sculptures throughout the city, with 35 new pieces added since 2000. Her office developed the City’s first 15year arts strategic plan with the community and has released powerful figures on the economic impact of the arts in the city. Her priorities include increasing cultural diversity in arts programming and sharing Virginia Beach’s history in new ways through impactful educational and community programming, while preserving and protecting our treasured historical sites. In 2022, the Cultural Affairs Department was honored with a Human Rights Award from the Virginia Beach Human Rights Commission. Born in Norfolk, Virginia, she is a graduate of Norfolk Academy where she is currently on the Alumni Board. She earned a B.A. in Art History from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond. In 2008, she was named one of Hampton Roads’ Top 40 under 40 by Inside Business, and the Virginia Beach Rotary Club named her the 2019 Outstanding City Employee of the Year. She lives in Virginia Beach with her husband and daughter, who are her biggest supporters.

Why did you decide to work in the arts?

When I was growing up, I was able to see the Broadway show Les Misérables. I was wowed by the power of how the arts communicated the intensity of the story and the experiences of the characters. It was a transformational experience. It’s so important to expose children to a variety of art forms to inspire and help them connect to themselves and others.

Tell us about a challenge you are proud that you have overcome.

We’re working to grow multi-cultural programming with the goal of bringing the community together to celebrate our diversity. We have made progress thanks to wonderful multicultural partners.

What is one thing you do every day and why?

In the evening, I talk to my 11-year-old daughter about her day. It’s a great time to connect with her, hear about her experiences and discuss any challenges she may be facing.

What is the best thing that has happened to you in your journey in the arts?

I had the opportunity to lead one of the City of Virginia Beach’s largest and most visible construction projects, the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts at Town Center, which opened in November 2007. With no small amount of energy, effort and vision from City Council, City staff and devoted citizens, we created a community treasure to be enjoyed for generations to come.

What does being a part of the Virginia Beach community mean to you?

It’s exciting to see how the arts in Virginia Beach have grown over the past 20 years. It could not have happened without a lot of dedicated arts partners and advocates. It’s an honor to work with these wonderful organizations to help us create a better community together. It is a powerful example of how citizens and government can make change.

What is your favorite thing about living and working in Virginia Beach?

It’s a thriving city with the beautiful Atlantic Ocean minutes away. I love that I get to live in a place where people choose to vacation.

How did you persevere through the tough times?

Focusing on the good in your life and what brings you joy helps put tough times intro perspective.

“Through public service you can tangibly see how your work makes an impact on your community.”

KATE PITTMAN is a nonprofit arts executive with over 16 years experience working in Hampton Roads. In her role as director for the first arts district in Virginia Beach, she works with a nonprofit board of community leaders, city officials, a business association of approximately 100 small local businesses and over 300 artists to champion local culture. Pittman partners with artists and entrepreneurs to collaborate in the unique and engaging destination called ViBe. The ViBe District has rapidly grown since its 2015 adoption by city council with the addition of over 58 new small businesses and over 350 works of art. The ViBe Creative District nonprofit has raised over $1.4 Million dollars to support local artists and small businesses and has received 850 positive press articles--including Jeopardy, Rolling Stone Magazine and Southern Living. Pittman lives with her husband and sons in Virginia Beach.

Why did you decide to work in the arts?

I always loved to draw as a child and would sketch on anything-even the paper on the doctor’s room tables. In 2nd grade, I was selected as art student of the month and I was hooked on my passion. My favorite field trips were always museums!

What is your favorite part of being an arts entrepreneur?

The freedom of expression and creativity. When I brainstorm ideas for projects, I usually get a visual first and then write out a plan to achieve that picture in my head.

Tell us about a challenge you are proud that you have overcome.

I’m most proud of building ViBe Creative District from the ideas on paper to the physical space you see today. Our community had to start from scratch and fundraise along the way. My background was project management in a museum setting and ViBe is an outdoor museum without walls or a roof-- the sky’s the limit.

What is one thing you do every day and why?

Everyday I read to my twin boys. Books were such an important part of my childhood and I want to share that with them. One day, I would love to write and illustrate a children’s book.

Pittman

Who/what is your biggest inspiration?

Creative female entrepreneurs, which is why I invited the women on this cover to participate. I learn so much from my colleagues here in Virginia Beach and respect them all as mentors.

What is the best thing that has happened to you in your journey in the arts?

In my former role at Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, I helped lead the museum through the National Accreditation process from the American Alliance of Museums. Achieving that goal was a career milestone and I was fortunate to participate on national panels at their annual conference, too.

What does being a part of the Virginia Beach community mean to you?

Someone once said to me that I truly understand Virginia Beach and care, even though I’m not from here originally. Although I didnt grow up in Virginia Beach, I’ve lived here now almost 20 years and love this community. The City of Virginia Beach offers its citizens an incredible lifestyle and many opportunities to succeed.

What is your favorite thing about living and working in Virginia Beach?

The outdoor living experiences-- from beach cruising the boardwalk or out to the amphitheatre to swimming at First Landing State Park-- in Virginia Beach is the absolute best.

How did you persevere through the tough times?

I rely on my family for strength in tough times. I am grateful thave my amazing parents and older brothers all here in Virginia Beach.

What do you want to achieve next?

Professionally, I want to see ViBe adopt a new 5 year strategic plan in 2024 that addresses sustainable funding and future growth. Personally, I want to travel the country with my twin boys as they grow up-- the 60+ National Parks are on our goal list for the next 10 years.

“I always loved to draw as a child and would sketch on anything.”

Ryan

GARY RYAN, Director & CEO, Norfolk native, Gary joined Virginia MOCA in 2019 after spending the bulk of her professional career in the New York City metro area. A graduate of Dartmouth College and the Kellogg School of Business at Northwestern University, Gary began her professional career working in packaged goods marketing at Unilever. She made the transition to magazine publishing; back when there were magazines, working at Time Inc. on new print and digital new business ventures for People and Real Simple magazines, among others. She moved to arts administration first at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, followed by the Metropolitan Opera and the Katonah Museum of Art where she ran the institution as Interim Director for eight months. Through these positions, Gary learned how to couple her business knowledge with her deep appreciation for creative production.

Leading Virginia MOCA is her self-described dream job, an opportunity to contribute to the community in which she was raised by helping to provide access and engagement with locally relevant, nationally resonant contemporary art that is exceptional. Gary lives in the Shadowlawn neighborhood of Virginia Beach and has a daughter, Isabel, who is pursuing a Ph.D. in political science at the University of North Carolina.

Why did you decide to work in the arts?

I grew up in Norfolk, just down the street from the Chrysler Museum of Art and owe my lifelong love of the arts and culture to the area’s creative community. My family is full of creative talent, me not so much, so I decided to use my business skills in service of the art and artists.

What is your favorite part of being an arts entrepreneur? I work with passionate and interesting people from whom I am constantly learning.

Tell us about a challenge you are proud that you have overcome.

Leading Virginia MOCA through COVID and coming out the other side presenting the work of Maya Lin, one of the most important contemporary artists of our time.

What is one thing you do every day?

Drink coffee every morning while reading the paper.

Who/what is your biggest inspiration?

I’m inspired by artists and their bravery to share their truth through their work. Artists are compelled to create, regardless of who might see their work or how it may be received. As a result of this dedication and courage, which is to understand how we are more similar than different–to connect through our shared humanity gives us a means.

What is the best thing that has happened to you in your journey in the arts?

I finally figured out what I wanted to do when I grew up.

What does being a part of the Virginia Beach community mean to you?

It means contributing to the quality of life in a meaningful way–giving back to the place that formed me.

What is your favorite thing about living and working in Virginia Beach?

The natural beauty of this place, and the fact that I only have a 5-minute commute.

How did you persevere through the tough times? Exercise that transports me, friends who support me, and The Great British Baking Show.

What do you want to achieve next?

To continue to lead a museum noted for its compelling exhibition and education program, its ability to connect our communities to each other and the world, and its nurturing and supportive work environment.

WOMEN OF THE

“I’m inspired by artists and their bravery to share their truth through their work.”

MARGARET FOLTZ Like many others, the military brought me to Hampton Roads. I grew up in a Marine Corps family, and our last assignment was Virginia Beach. What a gift! I loved the area immediately. After graduating from college, I started my career in the non-profit sector. After almost 20 years working in health and human service organizations, I stepped into the world of art at the Virginia Beach Art Center. I quickly learned how this impressive organization serves our area in ways that I did not imagine. The local art scene here is thriving. I am consistently amazed at the quality of work submitted to our monthly exhibitions. On any given day, I witness art and pottery classes being led by instructors who teach in a fun, welcoming environment. Sometimes the work that is made in our classrooms ends up in our exhibitions! It’s amazing to witness so many aspects of the artistic process under one roof. The sense of belonging, inclusiveness, and creativity permeates our building, and I consider myself lucky to be a part of it.

Why did you decide to work in the arts?

I remember being really excited at the prospect of working to engage our community with local art. The talent in the 757 is incredible and I wanted to help support these amazing artists and work to ensure that every member of our community had the chance to experience local art.

What is your favorite part of being an arts entrepreneur?

The omnipresent potential for collaborations with other organizations and non-traditional partnerships.

Tell us about a challenge you are proud that you have overcome.

The Pandemic. Personally and professionally! I found it very stressful working to follow guidelines, adhere to policies and making people feel safe. We were all fighting an invisible enemy and the thought of something slipping by and affecting family and friends was overwhelming. I am so lucky to work with a wonderful group of people who supported me through all the ups and downs.

What is one thing you do every day and why?

Walk. Getting outside is vital to a clear mind for me. If I am stressed, a walk calms my nerves. If I need to process

information or am stuck in a decision, a walk helps me to figure out solutions.

Who/what is your biggest inspiration?

My mother. She was an artist who had the very best attitude, even in her death. She was strong willed, compassionate, creative, and a fierce supporter of her family and friends. I work every day to be just like her.

What is the best thing that has happened to you in your journey in the arts?

Learning. Truly, at the Virginia Beach Art Center there are so many people who are willing to share their inspirations, processes, techniques and so much more. Even after two years, I feel as though I learn something new every day.

What does being a part of the Virginia Beach community mean to you?

Community is everything! I am so grateful for our arts community, for personal and professional community, and for the consistent forward motion of our community. I love that we are all working together in some way to pave the way for the next generation.

What is your favorite thing about living and working in Virginia Beach?

I have always loved Virginia Beach! We have so many activities to enjoy, you really can’t get bored. Our local leadership in businesses, schools, and the city government do such a great job working to improve our area. Additionally, I realized young that this is the biggest small town ever! I love how we are all somehow connected.

How did you persevere through the tough times?

With the help and support of those around me. I am so lucky to have supportive family, friends and coworkers. They make all the difference during the tough days.

What do you want to achieve next?

We have grown so much as an organization! I would love for us to have a larger space for our monthly exhibitions and more room for our artists and students to develop their skills and experiment with art.

Foltz

“Community is everything! I am so grateful for our arts community, for personal and professional community, and for the consistent forward motion of our community.”

Islam

RAEESAH ISLAM is the founder and director of Utopia

Feni, a nonprofit for artists of every kind serving creatives locally and in Feni, Bangladesh. She is herself, an artist who was born and raised in this city and also serves as an Arts & Humanities Commissioner of Virginia Beach. She studied art at The Governor’s School for the Arts and fashion design + marketing at The London College of Fashion in the UK. She aims to bring everything she’s learned from travel and culture back here to her home of the 757.

Why did you decide to work in the arts?

I am an artist myself and I’ve gained confidence through the various programs I’ve had access to. If I didn’t have those opportunities, I wouldn’t have known my value as a creative person. My mission is to share the value of creativity so that others can find their value too outside of the everyday world.

What is your favorite part of being an arts entrepreneur?

My favorite part is meeting new artists with a spark in their eye for what they love to create. Seeing other people passionate about what they do and in turn finding appreciation for what I’ve created inspires me to keep going.

Tell us about a challenge you are proud that you have overcome.

The main challenge I’ve overcome was finding my own voice as a young woman from a different cultural background in Virginia Beach. I’ve had many obstacles beyond my control to get to where I am now but my consistency has proven to the community that I am here for what my purpose is.

What is one thing you do every day and why?

The one thing I do everyday is find time for self-care, what’s the point if we can’t enjoy loving ourselves?

Who/what is your biggest inspiration?

My biggest inspiration since I was a child has been my grandmother. She was a painter and passed away when I was very young, but she is the one who inspired me to take this path as the only other artist in my family.

What is the best thing that has happened to you in your journey in the arts?

The best thing that has happened to me has definitely been me finding my community and meeting friends that I can trust and relate to through what I love to do. The way we can make new things happen and are stronger together makes me know that what I am capable of can be achieved.

What’s being a part of the Virginia Beach community mean to you?

It means that I’m setting out to do exactly what I’m here for-to make people of every kind feel welcome and accepted to be a part of a place that has so much potential to be more than what it has been. Virginia Beach is where I’ve chosen to be.

What is your favorite thing about living and working in Virginia Beach?

My favorite part is the potential to grow-we can live a city or suburban lifestyle, yet take our time to enjoy our surroundings as opposed to a big city. We have pretty mild weather, all four seasons, rarely any natural disasters, decent cost of living, and live only a stone throw away from any landscape we can imagine.

How did you persevere through the tough times?

I persevered through tough times by remembering all that matters is what I have control over and it’s not worth worrying about something I can not fix myself. Asking for help when I absolutely need it has shown me the power of community through those times as well.

What do you want to achieve next?

Would love to keep expanding my purpose as an artist and business owner by creating more national and international avenues to create in. I’d love to keep exploring the world and bringing gems back home.

WOMEN OF THE

“I persevered through tough times by remembering all that matters is what I have control over and it’s not worth worrying about something I can not fix myself. “

RITA ADDICO COHEN, Tidewater African Cultural Alliance’s Founder/Executive Director, began performing as a Traditional Ghanaian Dancer and singer at the age of 4 in her hometown of Accra, Ghana. She has performed as a professional musical theatre/opera artist from New York all the way down to Texas, including having sung with the Virginia Opera; and toured with the Paragon Ragtime Orchestra in the title role of Treemonisha. A fluent speaker of 9 languages and a lifelong dancer trained in many international Dance formats, Mrs. Addico Cohen has combined her linguistic and artistic abilities to create a dance based three tier ACE (African Cultural Education) program that she has been presenting since 2015 for: K-5/Family; Middle School; and High School & Above levels. They are being offered in Chesapeake, Norfolk, and VA Beach schools, thanks to support from the Hampton Roads Community Foundation, City of VA Beach, and the Virginia Commission for the Arts, where she (TACA) is on the Teaching Artists Roster. She is also a choreographer and licensed fitness professional, and a frequent presenter at the international Zumba Instructor Convention, where she was named the 2022 Humanitarian of the Year. Mrs. Addico Cohen is a graduate of the Norfolk Academy; holds a BA in Classical Music from UVA; and Master of Music in Classical Voice Performance from the Manhattan School of Music.

What made you change your mind about going into music?

Though I’d sung/performed all my life, I entered UVA as a pre-Med. I’d won a singing competition that gave me free voice lessons in the Fall of my 1st semester. By the spring, I’d developed a lingering hoarseness that made my voice teacher give me an ultimatum: Go see an ENT (Ear Nose & Throat specialist) or I will stop teaching you. With the huge goiter around my neck, bulging eyes, and frenetic resting pulse, the ENT easily diagnosed me with Grave’s Disease (Hyperthyroidism). During treatment, I realized that I wanted to study what I had been doing all along. Coming from a very poor West African culture, the arts was never a viable option (compared to Engineering, Medicine, or Law) until I was faced with the possibility of never being able to sing again. The arts had chosen me, but I ended up choosing the arts because I could not imagine my life without it.

Addico Cohen

Explain the license to constantly create new and meaningful content.

There is no mold or precedent, but rather an encouragement to keep pushing the envelope to create something new, yet relevant and meaningful. When my son (our 2nd born) was 4 years old, I was in North Carolina singing in a world première opera. I was gone when he lost his 1st tooth. It was really hard for me not being there (I had also been away on his 4th birthday, singing the title role of Scott Joplin’s Treemonisha). I decided that I did not want to miss any more moments in either of my children’s lives, and took a break from singing/performing professionally. In hindsight, I could have just scaled back my schedule or only sung locally. Instead, I poured myself into Dance. Not only was I able to use Dance (and fitness) to bring health and happiness into many kids and adults’ lives, but it also informed the work I do now through TACA.

Every single day you move and sing, why?

Movement (whether it’s a stroll on the beach and/or moving in sync to music) creates endorphins, which promote happiness. Singing has always brought me peace, and an extra way to express myself when words fail me (I was/am very shy and quite an introvert. I know, it doesn’t seem like it. Performing empowers me). I also love singing in different languages. It’s almost as if I have the chance to travel-through Dance, as well, when practicing international rhythms/styles. I am not sure which I did first, but I know that I have always done both.

Angélique Kidjo, the amazing performing artist from Benin is important to you because?

I discovered her music when I was in grad school in NYC. She has been able to carve an international career-even create a theatrical piece-while being a wife and mother, performing concerts and even acting in movies. She also has the Batonga Foundation that gives back to girls in her native country. I am in awe of all that she has done and does and inspires me to keep going. I CAN be a mother, wife, AND performing artist!

What does it mean to contribute to the artistic and cultural life of the largest city in the state?

Working to make it a place where people want to stay and not leave to find cultural stimulation elsewhere matters.

“Singing has always brought me peace, and an extra way to express myself when words fail me.”

Smithers

TAMAR SMITHERS, an avid arts advocate with over fifteen years of experience in the not-for-profit arts sector with a special focus on museums, higher education, and cultural institutions. As Executive Director for The Virginia African American Cultural Center (VAACC), she is dedicated to community relationship building and audience development/ engagement. Prior to joining the VAACC, Tamar served as the founding Senior Director of Education for the National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) in Nashville, TN.Tamar holds a BFA in Acting from Syracuse University, a wM.S. in Arts Administration and a C.A.S. in Higher Education Leadership from Le Moyne College. She is also a current EMBA Candidate in the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. A community-minded person with a true passion for mentoring and being a positive role model for our youth, Tamar encourages young people to believe that no matter what their circumstances may be, if they continue to pursue their dreams, anything is possible!

Why did you decide to work in the arts?

I have been singing since I was four years old. The arts have been a part of my everyday life since that tender age. As a child growing up in NYC and navigating life’s challenges, the arts provided an outlet and a place of healing for me. If I was having a bad day, dance it out. If I was in a low place, I would sing my favorite song. To me, the arts are LIFE, and I couldn’t imagine living in a world where the arts were not represented and were not accessible.

What is your favorite part of being an arts entrepreneur?

My favorite part of being an arts entrepreneur is the ability to help people of all walks of life, live life to their fullest potential by utilizing the arts as that vehicle. I love using my God-given gifts and talents to be able to bless others and help our youngest audiences discover their talents and passions in life.

Tell us about a challenge you are proud that you have overcome.

A challenge that I am proud to have overcome is moving from my hometown of NY to Nashville, TN back in 2019. It was a major decision I had to make for my own personal growth and evolution. Leaving my family, friends, and comfort zone was terrifying. However, If I had not made that decision, I wouldn’t be where I am today. It made me tap into an inner strength and resilience that I never knew I had. I honestly feel young adults; women in particular, should challenge themselves at least once in life by moving away from home to places where they know no one. It icon those journey’s that we“find”ourselves.

What is one thing you do every day and why?

One thing I do daily is to try and experience and/or incorporate some form of artistic expression. Whether that be listening to some good music, singing my favorite song, moving my body in dance, or writing poetry, etc. It keeps me grounded and reminds me of my purpose in life. It also allows me to stay connected to and grow my own creativity.

Who/what is your biggest inspiration?

Seeing faces light up with joy during impactful programs and events is what inspires me. I especially love seeing our babies discover their passions and artistic abilities.

What is the best thing that has happened to you in your journey in the arts?

The best thing that has happened to me on my journey in the arts is having a day named after me in my hometown of Syracuse, NY. March 1st is Tamar Smithers Day in the city of Syracuse. To me that is representative of the workhand contributions that I have made to the arts and community. It is one of my highest honors in life thus far.

What does being a part of the Virginia Beach community mean to you?

I am very new to the area, just touching down in October 2022. For me, being a part of the Virginia Beach community means UNITY. My love for the arts and community feels like it will flourish and grow here. I truly enjoy meeting people and making connections and I am looking forward to even more relationship building and forming my village here in Virginia Beach.

What is your favorite thing about living and working in Virginia Beach?

I love the diversity and cultural opportunities in the area, particularly in the arts. Being back home on the east coast means I’m closer to my family. The ability to take a 20 min drive to the beach means the world to me. There’s something about the tranquility of water and its ability to center me and bring me back to myself

How did you persevere through the tough times?

Prayer, patience, and peace. When I am working through tough times, as a woman of faith, I find clarity in prayer. Having patience with others as well as myself continues to make that journey easier to travel.

To me, the arts are LIFE, and I couldn’t imagine living in a world where the arts were not represented and were not accessible.

TERRY FLINT joined The Z in 2016 with 16+ years of professional theatre and production experience. Under her leadership, The Z has transitioned from its formative stage in small, storefront black box theater to serving as a hub of creative inspiration in a state of the art performing arts center, offering the community unique entertainment, artistic development, and creative engagement. Her career behind the scenes includes arts management, production management, and scenic and props design at regional theaters including Virginia Stage Company, Williamstown Theatre Festival, American Repertory Theatre and Texas Shakespeare Festival. She earned her MFA in Scenic Design from University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign and continues her freelance scenic design and props work. Local design credits include props and installation design work for the Burning Man and The Dream Clinic projects at The Hermitage Museum, and set designs for LTN’s The Foreigner and A Piece of My Heart, VSC’s Billy Bishop Goes to War, A Raisin in the Sun, Taming of the Shrew, Grounded, Native Gardens, and A Christmas Carol (2011-2016), and ODU’s HAIR and Echoes.

Why did you decide to work in the arts?

I think it was pretty clear early on that I was headed for the arts, and my parents always encouraged me in my exploration. I have always been a creative thinker and had a love of performance, loved crafting as much as singing... pretty much any creative expression. Like many, I found theater & amp; choir in middle school and they provided me with a creative outlet and built confidence. In college, I learned more technical theater, where I could add in my love for designing and making things. Being able to go to a school that let me do both the performing and the designing was key for me and helped me hone in on design/tech as my career path. I’ve stayed in the field ever since. The surprise came with the shift from hands-on work to arts administration. But even after 10+ years wholly on the technical theater side of things, creativity and collaboration arête through-line in my career path. Theatre and threats teach so many skillscreative problem-solving, truly collaborating and recognizing good solutions even when they aren’t yours, perseverance and exploration, the discipline of opening night deadlines...it all applies to arts administration just as much as production work, and to other careers as well, I expect.

What is your favorite part of being an arts entrepreneur?

Flint

100% the creative collaboration. The best moments in arts work for me come when we leave any notion of competition behind and are sharing ideas openly, working toward a common goal, troubleshooting along the way–that’s where I find the most work satisfaction. Whether those goalies a new partnership between organizations, designing a new festival, or selecting shows and artists for a new season, collaboration with a team is my favorite way to work.

Tell us about a challenge you are proud that you have overcome.

I am very proud of the work I put in with the whole The Z team to bring this new arts organization to life. The biggest single challenge along the way has to have been when we moved from our temporary space, a retail corner spot with 75 seats, into our permanent facility with 2 theaters. Being ready not only to start a full season of programming, but kicking it all off with our first Proteus Festival–it was so much work! And such a roller coaster day-to-day juggling all the growing pains that come with a new building full of new systems plus the challenges of the multi-event, multiday festival. But I was so very proud sitting in the Main Stage on opening night, watching Kisi Bashir performing live with Sound GSA strings players, then heading down the hall to see The Hunts performing to a packed house in the Studio. I might have cried a little, it was definitely a career highlight.

What is one thing you do every day and why?

This started not too long ago, pandemic-adjacent you might say, but I do the crossword puzzle with my family almost every night. We miss a night every now and then, but always go back and do the puzzles we missed, so I think that counts. Why? Because my teenager is so into it! He’s the one making sure we don’t skip a puzzle and I love that he wants to hangout! The 3 of us on the couch, we each have our clues that we are good at, lots of chatting and ribbing along the way, it’s the best.

Who/what is your biggest inspiration?

This probably sounds hokey, but the people I am working with, within any given project, inspire me most often. It goes back to that collaboration thing. I don’t have a single person or moment that I could point to but there are so very many moments of creative spark, big and small, that come out of teamwork along the way. Those are what keep me going, keep me inspired to help other folks find that same inspiration.

“The best moments in arts work for me come when we leave any notion of competition.”

Wood

LAURA WOOD is co-founder and current President of the ViBe Creative District board. She is a local business leader with over 20 years experience in small business, tourism/hospitality, grassroots community development and engagement. In 2019, The VB Jaycees recognized Laura Wood with the prestigious First Citizen Award. Wood serves on a number of boards and committees: Old Beach Farmers Market (co-founder/ Vice President); Green Drinks Virginia Beach (founder); Business Alliance for Protecting the Atlantic Coast; (founding board member); Virginia MOCA (Board of Trustee); FBI Norfolk Citizens Academy Alumni Association; VA Beach Police Academy Alumni Association; and has served on numerous City of Virginia Beach committees including the Green Ribbon Committee, Health Services Board, the Resort Advisory Commission, the Mayor’s Offshore Wind Commission and IDEA’s commission for diversity and inclusivity. In addition, she’s a supporter of the Virginia Green Alliance, Hampton Roads Pride, Equality Virginia, Virginia Arts Festival, Lynnhaven River NOW and many others. In 2021,she received the Human Rights Award from the City of Virginia Beach’s Human Right Commission. In 2022, Wood was recognized by Virginia Business Magazine as one of the top 100 People to meet in 2023.

Why did you decide to work in the arts?

The arts found me at a very young age, which naturally influenced and enhanced my career and volunteer work. The arts taught me critical thinking among many otherworldly skill sets.

What is your favorite part of being an arts entrepreneur? Collaborating, creating and cross-pollinating with like minded artistic visionaries.

Tell us about a challenge you are proud that you have overcome.

Usually being told “No” and finding a strategic path to “Yes” all the while proving dissenters wrong and showing others positive ways to overcome.

What is one thing you do every day and why?

Drink Three Ships Coffee Espresso blend not only because of its carefully curated taste but there’s a sense of hometown pride supporting local businesses and craft makers which bolsters our local economy.

Who/what is your biggest inspiration?

Besides my two daughters being my biggest inspiration the next would be are our local artisans, musicians, farmers and small businesses in the ViBe and at the Old Beach Farmers Eco/Art Markets. Each has a unique story and together make our local creative ecosystem more vibrant, healthier and happier.

What is the best thing that has happened to you in your journey in the arts?

Being a part of something bigger than oneself. Especially as a cofounder of the ViBe and Old Beach Farmers Market for the authenticity, community and economic development return on investment to the city and its citizens.

What does being a part of the Virginia Beach community mean to you?

It’s humbling. In 2019 I was honored to receive the VA Beach Jaycees First Citizen Award. “My grandparents would be proud especially my grand-father Wood co-chaired the Merger of our city which celebrates its 60th year this year”

What is your favorite thing about living and working in Virginia Beach?

There’s still a small town aspect though our natural re sources, parks, waterways and growing arts scene are the most invigorating.

How did you persevere through the tough times?

Just keep walking-Walk softly and carry a big stick.

What do you want to achieve next?

A higher education creative arts satellite campus in the ViBe, with affordable housing for students to live work and study.

“My grandparents would be proud especially my grandfather Wood co-chaired the Merger of our city which celebrates its 60th year this year”

WOMEN OF THE

Enjoy a Cup of Coffee in Virginia Beach This Season

While we need our morning coffee year-round, there’s something about a hot cup on a cold winter morning that just warms the soul. Pair it with a fresh-baked muffin or hand pie, and you’ve set the stage perfectly for a memorable winter’s day. Here are a few of our favorite spots to warm up with a cup of coffee in Virginia Beach.

BAD ASS COFFEE COMPANY

@badasscoffeevb

Coffee lovers who can’t get enough of Hawaii’s famous Kona coffee can enjoy a cup in the tropical vibes of Bad Ass Coffee, located in the ViBe Creative District. While all of their coffee creations are stellar, we like the Cuban Coffee, which is espresso served with caramelized sugar. For a traditional pairing try one of their donuts, like the classic blueberry donut.

THREE SHIPS COFFEE

@threeshipscoffee

Three Ships, in the eclectic ViBe Creative District, is perfect for early morning pickme-ups and mid-day coffee and dessert. Their homemade hand pies, in mouthwatering flavors like Nutella, are the perfect graband-go food to pair with their house-roasted coffee. Wash one down with a Pungo latte, a classic latte made with Three Ships’ rich coffee and lightly sweetened with seasonal berries, like strawberries and blueberries, from the Pungo agricultural district.

PERKED UP! COFFEE CAFÉ

@maggie.g.c

Instagram at Perked Up!

Located at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, Perked Up! is a locallyowned coffee shop serving up fresh baked goods and delicious coffee. Try a classic cappuccino with one of the house-made scones, which come in flavors like coconut lime, and blueberry lemon, or one of their banana Nutella muffins.

ROAST RIDER COFFEE + TEA

@roastridercoffee

Hilltop’s Roast Rider Coffee takes care in every step, from bean to cup, to produce the perfect cup of joe, so we like to keep it simple here with traditional black coffee. Serving locally-sourced baked treats from some of our favorite spots, like May’s Parlor and My Vegan Sweet Tooth, it’s hard to go wrong here. If you haven’t tried one of the gluten-free, vegan muffins from My Vegan Sweet Tooth yet, this is the perfect time to try.

POUR FAVOR COFFEE SHOP

@pourfavorcoffeeshop

Located inland in Virginia Beach, Pour Favor Coffee Shop is serving out lattes and cappuccinos that are almost too pretty to drink. Almost. While you can’t really go wrong with any of their coffee drinks, it can be hard to settle in on just one. Luckily, with their coffee flight, you don’t have to. Dive into a sampling of four of their creations like the latte, macchiato, mocha, and coco loco cold brew. With sweet breakfast staples like fresh, homemade waffles, served with powdered sugar and warm syrup, and muffins in mouthwatering flavors like red velvet and cream cheese, chocolate chip, and blueberry, there’s a lot to love here.

MAY’S PARLOR

@maysparlor

Serving up the famous La Colombe brand coffee, May’s Parlor is much more than just a bakery. This Oceanfront hotspot is cranking out sweet and savory treats using locally-sourced dairy, meats, cheeses, and produce, whenever available. We’re a huge fan of their croissants and any of their creative “cruffins,” which come in both sweet and savory varieties. For the perfect pairing, try the classic Latte with a flaky chocolate croissant.

SoupLove

This is Amy Markman, Chef, business owner of Soup Love. She has an amazing team of professionals that work in her kitchen to prep and produce her soups / recipes. The first ingredient in her soup, is love! Welcome to Amy’s kitchen, where she is known for some of the best chicken bone broth and soups, throughout Virginia Beach! She will tell you it is because that first ingredient really is LOVE! Chef Markman creates an amazing bone broth by using the chicken bones, vegetables and seasonings to make her bone broth, which simmers for a whole 24 hours. This is the stock for her other fine soups as well, but that bone broth is good enough all on its own. Bone broth is not only comfort food for so many of us, but it is great for the soul!

When she started her business, it was not her intention to start one. She has cooked since a young age, and loved cooking and sharing her foods with others. She started posting the pictures of her homemade meals on social media and had such an overwhelming response from friends and family, that she opened up Soup Love. The best thing that happened to Amy is that she learned it is never too late to reinvent yourself, at any age. This is a journey that exposed her to some incredible entrepreneurism, business associates and customers, who she now calls friends.

Amy’s favorite part about being an entrepreneur is getting to use her products to spread love and wellness to many people from all areas, and within her community. Truthfully, she tells us that being able to create a product that brings comfort and wellness for people to enjoy, is a big reason she created Soup Love. In addition, the satisfaction she receives from being able to contribute to her community and meet many special people along the way, makes it most gratifying.

Chef Markman shares with us that the secrets to her success

is in building an incredible team, that also shares in her vision for Soup Love. At the same time, she needs to maintain an understanding for the necessity of good organization, hard work, consistency, being knowledgeable, current, kind and grateful. She reminds us that we are only as good as the people we surround ourselves with. Amy tells us some of the biggest learning experiences in running a business is that she has learned it takes time to grow a small business, which requires patience, understanding and self motivation. Amy knows that you will never be able to please everyone 100 percent of the time, but you can never give up trying!

Amy recommends that in order to deal with fear and doubt, she refocuses her thought process to positive aspects, and the incredible growth that Soup Love has had. She lives by a healthy business practice which is, supporting and communicating daily with her team. Amy prides herself on following up with any customer concerns and questions, or any issues that require her response or attention. Setting up daily goals for her and her team, while always providing a healthy and safe work environment is vital. One where they are fulfilled, respected, and cared for, is an important value she has, and continues to use everyday.

Chef Markman has grown personally from being an entrepreneur because she is extremely aware of her positive impact on others in the world. She believes in being honest, hard working, and well intended. Being a part of the Virginia Beach Community means a great deal to Amy as a woman owned and operated small business. She is a native of VA Beach and has always called it her home. She loves giving her time and energy whenever called upon to benefit and help grow the community. Chef Amy Markman loves her resort city and the communities that make her city whole, and is grateful for the people and the programs that have helped to support and grow the City of VA Beach.

Article written by Robin Williams | Photos by Claire Lawlor

SEASON FOR NONVIOLENCE COLLECT VB:

This student-led group is guided by local educators, VB Human Rights Commissioners, and other partners to implement best practices within their schools and communities centered on raising awareness for mental health well-being and cultivating a culture of nonviolence. Participating school leaders can earn Season for Nonviolence Flags for their schools.

VIRGINIA BEACH GIRL SCOUTS:

A local girl scout troop will lead clean up efforts in ViBe District gardens during the Season as a peaceful activity to foster community-building and civic leadership.

NAMI COASTAL VIRGINIA

During the Season for Nonviolence, NAMI will host public

sessions for mental health awareness. For more details, visit: NAMI Coastal Virginia | National Alliance on Mental Illness

VB LIBRARIES TO PARTNER:

Virginia Beach Libraries will partner in this effort to host displays inside each of the City of Virginia Beach Public Libraries highlighting books, reading lists, music lists, mental health well-being in support of this global movement and the local community grass-roots initiative.

PUBLIC AWARENESS INITIATIVE:

Season for Nonviolence posters will be shared and posted in ViBe businesses and along the Virginia Beach Oceanfront to encourage the public to seek resources for mental health and bring awareness to nonviolence.

VB

SCHOOLS STUDENT & FACULTY ART COMPETITION

The Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion will sponsor a City-wide student and faculty art competition inspired by the Season for Nonviolence VB efforts with prizes for elementary, middle, and high school students as well as faculty.

You’re Amazing!

By Sue Lebrato

Have you considered re-joining the workforce but don’t know where to start? Do you have a soon-to-be college graduate who you would like to get prepared for a job search or an internship? Do you know a recent college graduate with “Failure to launch”? Perhaps the Covid experience caused you to reassess your circumstances and you now wish to make a change but are unsure how to get started. Were you part of the Great Resignation, or were you impacted by Covid layoffs?

With the realization that a large part of one’s identity is often tied to one’s chosen profession, if that security is uncertain or fractures, one’s self-worth can easily become impacted. This uncertainty can be felt whether it is a job loss, whether it is a college senior preparing to embark on life’s journey, or whether it is the parent who has had raising their children as their primary responsibility and now is not as depended upon. The question, “What is next?” can feel daunting if faced alone, and facing that unknown can cause anxiety.

Making the adjustment from the known and comfortable to the unknown can involve feelings of loss and grief. The college student who fears leaving the security of home, the displaced employee not knowing where or how to start over, the primary parent who may have had many years of her or his identity and pride tied to that role, can all be dealing with similar feelings of change, loss, or purpose. There are a variety of emotions and feelings tied to this fork in the road. It is not surprising that Elizabeth Kubler-Ross’ Model on grief, provides the same framework for the impact of organizational change upon employees. Both deal with change, loss and the psychology of adjustment.

Having a model like Kubler-Ross’ offers a contextual overview to understand where you may be in that process. Coping skills become very important, and assistance with that can be sought through therapists, but often it is a different type of expertise that is needed. People need more than

coping skills to make the adjustments to the next evolution of their “Purpose”. Frequently they are seeking specific support on how to; navigate through, create concrete actions and a plan, and guidance on how to execute the plan. In these cases, expertise can be sought from someone who understands the workplace and the skills needed to get there, and who offers guidance in that specific process, whether entering the workplace is brand new, or whether one is a re-entrant.

Reducing the grief, loss, or change timeline minimizes the associated timeline of stress. With this awareness, it is ideal to quickly engage with an expert to navigate the pathway to achieve one’s goals. Reducing that cycle-time of uncertainty benefits many aspects of one’s life.

You’re Amazing! enables clients; individuals and corporations, to successfully navigate uncertainty through consultative expertise. Sue can be reached at www.linkedin.com/ in/suelebrato.

The name of her company was inspired by a group of former colleagues who sought her support after a reductionin-force. She discovered the fragility of confidence in wellexperienced colleagues and found herself reinforcing their self-efficacy, reminding them of their value, and letting them know, “You’re Amazing!”

MARKETPLACE

MARKETPLACE

As spring begins to bloom, March brings with it many reminders of all the family-friendly fun to be had along our coast.

february 11 - 12

through March 9 FREE concert

Virginia Beach Gun Show

Virginia Beach Convention Center

february 11 - 12

Coastal Virginia Magazine WineFest

VB Convention Center

Join us every Thursday through March 9 for a FREE concert by one of Hampton Roads’ best local bands, hosted live by WHRO’s Paul Shugrue! Every Out of the Box concert starts at 7pm with doors opening at 6pm. Concerts are standing room only - please contact info@sandlercenter.org or call 757.385.2535 regarding a VIP table purchase or sponsorship. Performances are as follows:

March 9: Bobby Blackhat

March 9

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT AT TOWN CENTER

Live entertainment continues to be the star of the show at the Virginia Beach Town Center, with a month-long schedule of live performances that’ll have you singing, laughing, and dancing along. Out of the Box Emerging Artists Series

Sandler Center for the Performing Arts

March 11

BALLET COPPÉLIA

SANDLER CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

MARCH 11 AT 2:00 P.M., 7:00 P.M.

In the heart of the ViBe district, see scores of exhibiting artists in Virginia Beach’s only artists’ cooperative. Meet with many while they create, then take home a memory of your visit!

Only blocks from the beach, come bask in the art of Virginia Beach.

Join Ballet Virginia for this classic comic ballet for the whole family to enjoy. Everyone will be captivated by Dr. Coppélius’ charming life-like doll, Coppélia, and the entertaining mix-up that ensues. There is young love, jealousy, mistaken identities, and mischief. But, in the end, true love wins. Delightful music by Delibes and beautiful choreography danced by our professional company will make this a ballet not to miss. Tickets may be purchased online or at the Sandler Center’s box office.

March 17-19

A ST. PADDY’S DAY TRADITION

51ST ANNUAL YUENGLING

SHAMROCK MARATHON

VIRGINIA BEACH OCEANFRONT

You don’t have to be Irish to go for the gold during VB’s favorite St. Patrick’s Day tradition. The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon celebrates its golden anniversary this year with its usual weekend-long festivities, which include a race distance for every goal and for all ages and abilities (Marathon, Half Marathon, 8K, and other challenges) and a post-race celebration at the finish line, complete with music, Irish stew, and Yuengling beer, of course!

office@connectormagazines.com

March 4, 11, 18, 25

FARMERS’ MARKETS

Spring is almost around the corner, and we can feel it in the air. Get a head start on the best of the season with a visit to one of our beloved farmers’ markets.

SHORE DRIVE FARMERS MARKET / LYNNHAVEN COFFEE COMPANY

Grab a coffee from Lynnhaven Coffee Company and shop among the locals as you browse a variety of products from area farms, artisans, bakers, seafood producers, and more every Saturday, from 9 a.m. until noon at the Shore Drive Farmers Market. Vendors include Full Quiver Farms, B&H Produce, Veg Out Gardens, Gateaux Bakery, and many, many more.

MARKETPLACE

contact MICHELLE WESTBERRY

michelle@connectormagazines.com (757) 567-9354

MARKETPLACE EVENTS

March 4, 11, 18, 25

INDOOR FAMILY FUN

FREE MONTHLY WALKING MURAL TOURS

1st Fridays at 6pm & 2nd Saturdays at 10am

Meet at the LOVE sign - 18th St & Cypress Ave

Free parking - Open to all

NEIGHBORHOOD MARKETS MAR 18

Old Beach Farmers Market

Old Beach Art & Eco Market

The VB Flea Market

Military Owned Collaborative Market

Head indoors to escape the cooler temps and discover a lot of fun along the way to be shared with family and friends.

FUN & GAMES FRIDAYS

FAMILY FUN XPERIENCE

Ready to take the fun to the next level? During Fun & Game Fridays, Family Fun Xperience, an indoor theater in the heart of the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, hosts interactive live audience gaming experiences suited for the whole family (though it’s plenty of fun for adults with no kids, too!). Experience fun challenges, trivia, family feuds, and more, alongside family, friends, and the friends you’re likely to make in this fun, interactive setting. Live games begin at 7 p.m.; tickets are required and can be purchased online.

March 18

OLD BEACH FARMERS MARKET

CROC’S 19TH STREET BISTRO PARKING LOT

For the ultimate VB experience, head to the ViBe Creative District to browse and shop at the Old Beach Farmers Market, showcasing seasonal fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, eggs, seafood, cheeses, baked goods, artisan breads, savory foods from local chefs, soaps, flowers and more. This is your only chance to experience the market this month until it returns to its weekly schedule in the summer.

Let the SUN pay your bills!

electricity bill qualify for Federal ZERO upfront increase property reduce your carbon footprint enjoy immediate return

reduce your electricity bill qualify for Federal Tax Credit ZERO upfront costs* increase property value reduce your carbon footprint enjoy immediate return on investment ease your family budget *Not

Hello neighbor!

My name is John Marshall. and I'm a Virginia native from Fredericksburg. I have lived in Virginia Beach with my wife Rocío and my son John V for almost two years. My wife and I believe strongly in the power of community. We spent several years in southern Mexico helping to build homes for those affected by the earthquake of 2017. We look forward to growing roots here in the years to come. We are all experiencing unprecedented increases in the cost of living, especially when it comes to energy.

By powering your home with solar, you can reduce your energy expenditure while simul- taneously converting it into an appreciating asset with future returns.

As an experienced installer, I can guide you through the process. You'll be surprised at how easy it is and how much money you'll save. And with a free consultation and esti- mate, you've got nothing to lose.

I look forward to exceeding your expectations in 2023!

*Not all homes qualify, but most will see an immediate reduction in their monthly energy bills with zero upfront cost. We can help you navigate the process.

expectations in 2023!