Reach New Heights at Owl Creek Landing
Virginia Beach welcomes Owl Creek Landing, a new outdoor attraction surrounded by 38 acres of natural beauty. Inspired by European outdoor activity centers, it offers an outstanding site for exploration and recreation with something for everyone. It was created by Outdoor Venture Group LLC, the same team responsible for the Adventure Park. Highlights include the Nautilus Lookout Tower, Canopy Walk, treehouses, walking paths, and education stations. Open daily, Owl Creek immerses guests in the wooded forest and offers elevated views of its surroundings. Nighttime visits feature a
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Images courtesy of Owl Creek Landing Owl Creek Landing treehouses
Nautilus Lookout Tower - rendering
Those labors of love we do for others are also for ourselves
By Karen Beardslee Kwasny Columnist
Karen Kwasny
My husband, Tom, and I generously decorated for the major “holidays” when our boys were young. Halloween and Christmas were drawn-out decking affairs, spanning many days and almost always involving multiple trips to the hardware store for extension cords, lights, hooks, and wire to keep our props in order. Other holidays were lowkey events necessitating minor sparks of color, a door wreath, and perhaps a special dinner with themed table settings and a favored dessert.
The boys often helped as we unloaded boxes filled with festoons. They’d “ooh and ahh” and exclaim, “I remember this!” or “This is my favorite!” as they’d pull treasured items from the boxes kept in storage all year. Soon, however, they’d trail off to their own activities, leaving behind a mess of newspaper wrappings and already-forgotten favorites. Decorating was work, after all, and not much fun until everything was in place to enjoy. I felt that way, too, until I took out the boxes for this year’s Easter decorating. Something about the quiet of the occasion made me realize it had never been work at all but a labor of love -- I loved.
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For the longest time, my family didn’t have much in the way of Easter decorations. A collection of baskets, Easter grass, pastelcolored plastic eggs, and a few worn, stuffed bunnies comprised one large box marked for the holiday. Another smaller box held the wooden bunny wheelbarrow I found at a yard sale and the few more ornate stuffed and ceramic bunnies my mother had given me as part of our shared Easter tradition.
My collection of bunnies grew each year, as did the number of boxes needed to contain our Easter decorations. Then, just as the spring holiday began to feel a lot like Christmas, we decided to downsize our life. I gave away our surplus Easter paraphernalia kept just in case a grandchild visited and condensed everything Easter into two boxes again.
This meager Easter offering is all I had to manage when I set about the season’s decorating a few
Local Sun Magazine 1724 Virginia Beach Blvd Ste 102 Virginia Beach, VA 23454
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Contributors
Al Chewning Karen Kwasney
Dr. Adelia Gregoire Nylia Laney
Mark Rusnak Noah DeLorenzo Dr. Melissa McKendry
Gary Layne Kim Reed
Anthony Papa Cheryl Lockhart
weeks ago. It was a rather somber occasion with my husband away on business and the kids long grown and gone. I felt forlorn and melancholy as I went down the stairs with the two boxes, the lateday sunlight streaming through the front windows.
Having condensed things many months ago, I wasn’t sure what I would find as I opened the first box. A bounty of soft bunnies met my gaze, and I wondered where I would put them all. We are in a much smaller home now with less space and virtually no nooks or crannies for a bunny fluffle. I am also still in the honeymoon stage with the house --- I didn’t want to disturb the carefully crafted look of everything in its place.
Yet, as soon as the first bunny went onto the mantle, the other bunnies hopped on the couches and chairs, the windowsills and shelves, the coffee and end tables. I could not remember when my mother had given me each
Local Sun Magazine (LSM) is published monthly by National Brochure Distributors Inc. for Virginia Beach residents at no charge. All content is copyrighted by LSM. Contents may not be reproduced without written consent from the publisher. Opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily the opinions of the publisher or its employees and does not establish an endorsement of products or services. Readers are advised to verify any statements. Advertisers accept full liability and
bunny, but as I positioned them, one by one, around the house, I felt overwhelming gratitude and joy for my mother’s thoughtful abundance. I took note of each bunny’s unique features – some brown or gray and simply designed, others hand-sewn and dressed for a party.
I went from room to room with bunnies in my arms, finding the right place for each one ensuring all rooms had at least one bunny. When I reached the bottom of the second box, which had been filled with ceramic and glass bunnies meant for more strategic places, I found the wooden bunny wheelbarrow, which made its way to a table on our front porch for passersby to enjoy.
It was dark outside when I finished and returned up the stairs with the empty boxes. I surveyed the bunnies as I passed each room and thought about the effort given over the years to adorn our house for the holidays. There was a time I thought we’d give it up when the kids moved on to their own families as if what we did all those years was just for them. Now I know better. The labor involved in the boxes of memories made and kept is work of the heart – and well worth the effort
Karen Beardslee Kwasny is a former Virginia Beach Planning Commissioner and college professor. leejogger@gmail.com
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Local Events
East Coast She-Crab Soup Classic
Indulge in the annual East Coast She-Crab Soup Classic at Virginia Beach Oceanfront, where top restaurants vie for “Best She-Crab Soup.” Sample and vote for the Sean Brickell People’s Choice Awards, and enjoy the Critics’ Choice Awards by culinary experts. Don’t miss this chance to taste the finest She-Crab Soup on the East Coast!
• Sat 4/5 Noon - 2:30 pm
• $30 plus fees
• 31 Street Park - Neptune’s Park Virginia Beach Oceanfront
• beacheventsvb.com
Bulls and Barrels Beach Rodeo
Named “Best New Outdoor Event” in 2023, returns to Virginia Beach with bull riding, barrel racing, mini bull riding, rodeo clowns and Mutton Busting. Barrel racers and bull riders are competing for a $12,000 prize.
• Sat 4/12 3 pm - 5 pm Sun 4/13 3 pm - 5 pm
Door Time 2 pm
• General Admission Bleachers $30
Preferred View VIP Boardwalk $55
Additional fees my apply Children 2 and under are free
• On the beach at 2rd Street
Entrance at 3rd Street
• beacheventsvb.com
Hunt Club Farm
Easter Egg Hunt & Spring Fling
Join the fun at our Children’s Egg Hunt with visits from the Easter Bunny. Enjoy costumed characters, a petting farm, and TreeWalk Adventure. Take farm tour hayrides, dance to a live DJ, and explore our artisan and vendor village. Don’t miss out!
• Sat. 4/19 & Sun 4/20 10 am - 5 pm
• $8 to $20 per person other fees may apply
• 2388 London Bridge Road Virginia Beach, VA 23456
• huntclubfarm.com
April 2025
4/4 VB Public Schools - Staff Day
4/10 Masters Tournament 4/10 - 4/13 4/12 Passover
4/144/18 VB Public Schools - Spring Break
4/15 Tax Day
4/18 Good Friday
4/20 Easter Sunday
4/22 Earth Day
Virginia International Tattoo
Founded in 1997, the Virginia International Tattoo is a hallmark event of the Virginia Arts Festival that celebrates both patriotism and international camaraderie. Each year, it features over 800 performers from around the globe, showcasing military bands, drill teams, massed pipes and drums, Celtic dancers, choirs, and more. This remarkable event is the largest tattoo in the United States.
• Thu 4/24, Fri 4/25, Sat 4/26 7:30 pm Sun 4/27 2:30 pm
• $25 to $100 per person other fees may apply
• Scope Arena 201 E Brambleton Ave Norfolk 23510
• vafest.org/tattoo
Spring Town Point
Virginia Wine Festival
Celebrate spring at the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront with the 17th Annual Spring Town Point Virginia Wine Festival! Held on May 3 & 4, 2025, this event features over 200 wines from 25 of Virginia’s finest wineries, alongside gourmet food, specialty merchants, live music, and scenic views of the Elizabeth River. Guests can purchase wines by the bottle or case throughout the weekend.
• Sat 5/3 11 am - 6 pm Sun 5/4 11 am - 6 pm
• $25 to $40 per person, Reserved Table Packages Available Other fees may apply
• Town Point Park
Downtown Norfolk Waterfront
• festevents.org
May 2025
5/3 Kentucky Derby
5/5 Cinco de Mayo
5/14 Mother’s Day
5/14 Jamestown Colony Founded 1607
5/16 Busch Gardens Opened 1975
5/17 Armed Forces Day
5/17 Preakness Stakes
5/26 Memorial Day
All events are subject to change. For the most current info please check event website.
Great Neck Area
Margarita Grill
El Mexsal
Tequila Jalisco Mexican Grill
Guads Restaurante
Local Mexican Restaurants
Our research found some great dining options in the Great Neck & Little Neck Areas But things can change...Please call before visiting
2340 Virginia Beach Blvd, VB
401 North Great Neck Road Suite 105, VB
324 North Great Neck Road Suite B, VB
509 Hilltop Plaza, VB
Las Palmas 3 Mexican Restaurant 620 First Colonial Road, VB
Jose Tequilas Cocina Mexicana
3629 Shore Drive, VB
La Herradura 4801 Shore Drive Suite B, VB
Plaza Azteca 2158 Great Neck Square Sc, VB
Little Neck Area
Mi Casita Mexican Grill 3600 Bonney Road, VB
Mariscos Nayarit 689 Phoenix Drive, VB
El Azteca 2824 Virginia Beach Blvd, VB
Krazy Trompos 217 South Roasemont Road, VB
Grande Burrito Grill 138 Thalia Village Shoppes, VB
757-227-5890 facebook.com
757-302-4572 mexsalvb.com
757-904-0940 tequilajaliscomexicanva.com
757-491-1613 guadsmexicanrestaurant.com
757-904-3830 laspalmas3mexicanvb.com
757-755-3385 jose-tequilas.com
757-318-7693 facebook.com/laherradurabayside
757-228-7369 plazaazteca.com/great-neck
757-463-3819 micasitamexicangrill.com
757-431-0333 mariscosnayaritva.com
757-937-9939 elaztecavb.com
757-352-7008 krazytrompos.com
757-962-1638 grandeburritogrillva.com
Taqueria Jessy’s 1021 Virginia Beach Blvd Suite 104, VB 757-500-4209 jessystacos.com
El Parian Mexican Restaurant 4848 Virginia Beach Blvd Suite 16, VB 757-499-0310 facebook.com
Bro’s Fish Tacos 277 North Lynnhaven Road Suite 116, VB 757-620-3380 brosfishtacos.com
Popular Types of Mexican Foods
Ingredients of Popular Mexican Dishes
Tacos Corn or flour tortilla with various fillings such as meat, chicken, fish, beans, and/or cheese.
Burritos Flour tortilla with various fillings such as meat, chicken, beans, rice,and/or cheese.
Quesadillas Flour tortilla with cheese and possibly other fillings such as beef,chicken, and/or vegetables.
Nachos Corn chips with cheese sauce and possibly other toppings such as meat, chicken, and/or refried beans.
Enchiladas Corn tortilla with filling such as beef, pork, chicken and/or refried beans. Topped with enchilada sauce prior to cooking.
Other Mexican foods
Tamales, gorditas, chalupas, chimichangas, taquitos/flautas, fajitas, pupusas, arepas, chiles rellenos with various fillings.
Source: US Department of Agriculture
Other: tamales, gorditas, chimichangas, fajitas, & other Mexican dishes.
seasonal light show along trails, enhancing the overall experience. A lively calendar of events and programming ensures that every visit feels unique. The Owl Creek Landing is a must-visit destination for both residents and visitors.
Nautilus Lookout Tower
The Nautilus Lookout Tower is the first structure of its kind in the United States. The 65 foot openair tower is situated near key local attractions such as the Virginia Aquarium and Adventure Park and adds another dimension to the city’s outdoor offerings. Designed with accessibility in mind, the tower meets ADA guidelines and features a spiral ramp that offers smooth access from top to bottom alongside interior staircases for a more strenuous climb. At the summit visitors are rewarded with panoramic views, while the descent includes a unique feature—the country’s longest stainless-steel slide.
The Nautilus Lookout Tower Slide
The Nautilus Lookout Tower Slide is the longest stainlesssteel spiral slide in the United
States, measuring 171 feet. For safety reasons riders use felted wool mats and must be at least 55 inches tall. The partially plexiglass slide allows natural light to illuminate the descent, providing scenic views throughout the ride. Tickets for the slide are sold at the entrance or the Tower’s upper deck.
Tower Specifications
The Nautilus Lookout Tower offers six stories of ascending views as well as educational stations featuring information on native tree and wildlife species. The fully accessible spiral ramp measures 65 feet in height and 80 feet in width, and provides an easy seven-footwide pathway to the summit. The tower surpasses local landmarks including the 34foot King Neptune statue and the 45-foot Ocean Breeze Hugh Mongous figure. Two staircases are situated in the tower’s core, with one specifically designated for runners.
Canopy Walk, Treehouses & Trails
The Canopy Walk displays a unique perspective of the natural
environment. Suspended 30 to 40 feet above the ground, the halfmile wooden pathway connects to four themed treehouses and creates an elevated play area for children aged two and older. Visitors can access the Canopy Walk from the fourth level of the Nautilus Lookout Tower to explore the forested site.
At ground level a network of walking trails stretches for a mile, providing additional opportunities for nature exploration. In the evenings the trails are transformed by a specialty lighting display which adds a dynamic, illuminated dimension to the outdoor experience. The display includes interactive features led by Owl Creek Landing’s mascot owl, enhancing the appeal for families and night-time visitors.
Construction
Owl Creek Landing is designed to blend in with the heavily wooded site in order to preserve the natural environment and minimize tree removal. By centering the attraction around its natural surroundings the project highlights the importance
Key to this effort is the use of the Spinnanker foundation system, an Austrian innovation modeled after tree root systems. This minimally invasive method securely anchors the Nautilus Lookout Tower without requiring large-scale concrete foundations. The Nautilus Tower marks the first commercial application of the Spinnanker system in the United States. These sustainable construction techniques exemplify a commitment to balancing development with ecological conservation, making Owl Creek Landing a model for environmentally conscious design.
Owl Creek Landing blends nature, adventure, and sustainability. Featuring Nautilus Lookout Tower, Canopy Walk, treehouses, and trails, the site emphasizes environmental preservation with innovative construction methods. It offers unique, accessible outdoor experiences, making it a standout addition to the city’s recreational and attraction offerings.
Treehouse Village
Treetop Trail Canopy Walk
Nautilus Lookout Tower
• 65-feet tall
• 80-feet wide
• 1/3 Mile Spiral Ramp
• 7 foot-wide fully accessible path
• Two staircases tucked in the center core - one designed specifically for runners.
• Educational Stations located at numerous levels
The Slide
• 171-feet and stainless-steel
• Spirals through the center of the tower
• The longest in the U.S.
• Upper portion is clear plexiglass to enjoy the view.
Grand Opening Tentative Date is Memorial Day Weekend 2025
$28 for ages 14+ | $18 for 3-13 | Free under 2 Nautilus Tower slide is not included with above pricing. Available as an add-on activity. Visit OwlCreekLanding.com for Special Pre-opening Rates and more info.
Children’s Treehouse Village and Canopy Walk
Canopy Walk
Spring has sprung in Hampton Roads and Hummingbirds are on their way
By Nylia Laney Contributor
It appears that spring is here. If you look around, you will see the signs everywhere that you look. Daffodils and Hyacinths are blooming making the landscape undeniably beautiful. The Bradford pear trees look like they are in full bloom. On a recent warm day, you could see wasps and bumblebees flitting around the blooms on the tree. Maple seed pods have started to appear on the red maple trees.
The birds are singing their hearts out. I believe backyard birds singing are the biggest predictor that spring is here. Many of the birds are more colorful. They are no longer gathering in flocks as they do in winter. They have paired off for breeding ready to start a family. Some birds become aggressive in defending their territory. You may see a bird
attack its reflections in windows, car mirrors, outdoor cameras and other shiny objects believing that they are intruders. I have had cardinals attack my car mirror, I put a plastic bag over the mirror until breeding season has passed. Many birds have already started to build their nests. Some birds already have eggs by the beginning of April.
Woodpeckers have started drumming on the trees. They drum on trees to attract a mate.
What all this means is the ruby throated hummingbird is already on its way from Central American or Mexico. It is time to get those hummingbird feeders up. They generally reach the Hampton roads area around mid-April to early May. It is thought that hummingbirds sense the change in daylight hours as when to migrate. The males usually arrive first followed by the females and
a few weeks later the younger birds will arrive. During migration coming back north in the spring they fly alone and follow the same path when they migrated south in the fall. They generally fly during the day due to nectar sources being abundant. Research has shown that the ruby throated hummingbird can fly 25 miles in a day with speeds up to 25 mph.
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are eastern North America’s only breeding hummingbird.
Attracting hummingbirds in our area is easy. Plant flowers that hummingbirds love such as lantana, butterfly bush, Zinnas and pretty much any red flower. Hot lips salvia seems to be a favorite in my backyard. You
All photos by Nylia Laney
Juvenile Ruby-throated Hummingbird (2024)
Female Ruby-throated Hummingbird (2024)
Male Ruby-throated Hummingbird (2024)
can also provide a hummingbird feeder with sugar water with one part sugar to four parts water. Do not add red food coloring to hummingbird nectar as it is not safe for them. Natural nectar is colorless, so adding dye is not necessary and unnatural. Store the sugar water in the refrigerator. I fill my feeder about a third of the way because it needs to be changed every few days. I think the best feeders are the red, simple easy-to-clean feeders. No fancy feeders are needed.
Sit back and enjoy the show that
these hummingbirds provide, you are in for a real treat.
If interested, you can find the migration map at hummingbirdcentral.com/ hummingbird-migration.htm Then scroll down to 2025 Hummingbird Spring Migration Map
Some fun facts about the rubythroated hummingbird according to hummingbirdsplus.com.
They are one of the smallest hummingbird species with a length of 3 to 3.5 inches. Their wings beat around 53 times
a second, which sounds like a humming sound from which they get their name.
They can fly forwards, backwards and hover in place. They can fly at a speed of 25 miles per hour, and 40 miles per hour during courtship dives.
The male is solitary in nature. Pairs stay together in courtship and mating, then the males go off on his own. There is no bond that is formed in pairs.
Their favorite color is red or orange flowers due to their high sugar content.
On average, the Ruby-throated has about 950 feathers which are replaced every year and hold the record for having the least number of feathers of any bird. The short legs of the rubythroated hummingbird prevent it from walking or hopping. The best they can do is along a perch.
Resources: hummingbirdsplus.org/rubythroated-hummingbird-facts/
Nylia Laney is a native of Virginia Beach and enjoys nature photography.
Juvenile Ruby-throated Hummingbird (2024)
Female Ruby-throated Hummingbird (2024)
Male Ruby-throated Hummingbird (2024)
Juvenile Male Baltimore Oriole - Rarely seen visitor
First Colonial High School Boy’s Baseball 2025
3/18 Kellam Away 4:00 PM
3/20 Ocean Lakes Home 4:00 PM
3/25 Cox Away 4:00 PM
3/27 Salem Away 4:00 PM
4/1 Princess Anne Away 4:00 PM
4/3 Bayside Away 4:00 PM
4/4 Norfolk Academy Away 4:30 PM
4/8 Kempsville Home 4:00 PM
4/10 Green Run Away 4:00 PM
4/14 West Johnston Home 4:00 PM
4/15 Grace Christian Home 1:00 PM
4/22 Landstown Home 4:00 PM
4/24 Tallwood Home 4:00 PM
5/1 Ocean Lakes Away 4:00 PM
5/3 Cape Henry Collegiate Home 1:00 PM
5/6 Cox Home 5:00 PM
5/8 Tallwood Away 5:00 PM
5/12 York Home 4:30 PM
5/13 Salem Home 5:00 PM
5/20 Bayside Home 5:00 PM
5/22 Kellam Home 5:00 PM
Frank W. Cox High School Boy’s Baseball 2025
3/18 Landstown Home 4:00 PM
3/20 Bayside Away 4:00 PM
3/22 Gonzaga College Home 12:00 PM
3/25 First Colonial Home 4:00 PM
3/27 Kellam Home 4:00 PM
3/29 St. Ignatius Home 11:00 AM
4/1 Ocean Lakes Away 4:00 PM
4/8 Tallwood Away 4:00 PM
4/10 Salem Away 4:00 PM
4/22 Princess Anne Home 4:00 PM
4/24 Green Run Away 4:00 PM
4/25 Cape Henry Collegiate Away 4:30 PM
4/29 Kempsville Home 4:00 PM
5/1 Bayside Home 4:00 PM
5/2 Greenbrier Christian Away 6:00 PM
5/6 First Colonial Away 5:00 PM
5/8
5/10 Poquoson High Away 11:00 AM
5/13 Kellam Away 5:00 PM
5/15 Ocean Lakes Home 5:00 PM
5/17 Great Bridge High Away 1:00 PM
5/22 Landstown Away 5:00 PM
First Colonial High School Girl’s Softball 2025
3/18 Kellam Home 4:00 PM
3/20 Ocean Lakes Away 4:00 PM
3/21 Deep Creek Home 4:00 PM
3/25 Cox Home 4:00 PM
3/27 Salem Home 4:00 PM
3/31 Norview Away 4:30 PM
4/1 Princess Anne Home 4:00 PM
4/3 Bayside Home 4:00 PM
4/8 Kempsville Away 4:00 PM
4/9 Landstown Home 4:00 PM
4/10 Green Run Home 4:00 PM
4/22 Landstown Away 4:00 PM
4/24 Tallwood Away 4:00 PM
5/1 Ocean Lakes Home 4:00 PM
5/6 Cox Away 5:00 PM
5/8 Tallwood Home 5:00 PM
5/13 Salem Away 5:00 PM
5/20 Bayside Away 5:00 PM
5/22 Kellam Away 5:00 PM
Frank W. Cox High School Girl’s Softball 2025
3/18 Landstown Away 4:00 PM
3/20 Bayside Home 4:00 PM
3/21 Norfolk Academy Away 4:30 PM
3/25 First Colonial Away 4:00 PM
3/27 Kellam Away 4:00 PM
4/1 Ocean Lakes Home 4:00 PM
4/3 Churchland Home 4:30 PM
4/8 Tallwood Home 4:00 PM
4/10 Salem Home 4:00 PM
4/22 Princess Anne Away 4:00 PM
4/24 Green Run Home 7:00 PM
4/29 Kempsville Away 5:30 PM
5/1 Bayside Away 5:30 PM
5/6 First Colonial Home 5:30 PM
5/7 Kempsville Home 5:30 PM
5/8 Green Run Away 5:30 PM
5/13 Kellam Home 5:30 PM
5/15 Ocean Lakes Away 5:30 PM
5/17 Great Bridge Away 1:00 PM
5/21 Nansemond River Home 5:00 PM
5/22 Landstown Home 5:00 PM
All games are subject to change. For the most current info please check school website.
Princess Anne High School Girl’s Softball 2025
3/18 Bayside Away 4:00 PM
3/20 Kempsville Home 4:00 PM 3/25 Green Run Away 4:00 PM 3/27 Ocean Lakes Away 4:00 PM
4/1 First Colonial Away 4:00 PM 4/3 Tallwood Away 4:00 PM 4/8 Kellam Home 4:00 PM 4/22 Cox Home 4:00 PM 4/24 Landstown Home 4:00 PM 4/29 Salem Away 4:00 PM
5/1 Kempsville Away 4:00 PM
5/6 Green Run Home 5:00 PM
5/8 Landstown Away 5:00 PM 5/13 Ocean Lakes Home 5:00 PM 5/20 Tallwood Home 5:00 PM 5/22 Bayside Home 5:00 PM
A Brief History of Willis Furniture & Mattress
By Al Chewning
Author/ Historian/ Storyteller
Al Chewning
On the Southeast corner of Virginia Beach Boulevard and Thalia Road sits an Aldi’s grocery
store, ironically, a German store. Let me explain:
In 1937, a group of local men created a non-profit organization and bought several acres of land in that area. On it, they built the Tidewater Victory Memorial Hospital (TVMH) for tuberculosis patients. There was a crisis of TB in the world in the early 20th century.
The hospital was state-ofthe-art and included several Warren E. Collin’s iron lung machines. Although initially developed for the treatment of victims of gas poisoning, it was most famously used in the mid20th century for the treatment of respiratory failure caused by polio and tuberculosis. Unfortunately, the high humidity in this area was not
POW receiving coupons at Camp Ashby (courtesy of the Sargent Memorial Collection of the Norfolk Public Library)
good for the patients and the sanitarium closed in 1941.
In 1942, the United States Army took over the property, first for an infantry mobilization camp, but quickly converted into a prisoner of war camp named Camp Ashby. The former hospital was the Camp’s
headquarters. Over the course of the war, Camp Ashby housed over 6,000 German soldiers captured in the European theatre. These men were not Nazis, just enlisted men. Draftees mostly.
Many of them were taken by bus, every day, to local farms
throughout Princess Anne County were they were put to work as laborers. Many deep friendships developed between the prisoners and the local population.
Some of the men were allowed to earn coupons by selling things they made in
Star t living your best retirement life today. Discover fun events, great food, and new friends at Marian Manor.
the workshop in the Camp’s workshop. Local merchants would pay a small amount for
coupons would allow the POW certain privileges.
the wooden models, carvings, flutes and clocks, then sell them at their stores. The
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The camp also had a gymnasium, gardens, and musical instruments for use by the POWs. The largest number of prisoners kept at one time was 1,788. There were very few incidents that resulted in disciplinary action, and even fewer escapes. The few escapees were usually back in camp within a few days.
Camp Ashby closed in 1946, and the building remained empty for several years. On the north side of Virginia Beach Boulevard there was
a Navy LST, a landing craft, and net to it a giant billboard reading “Army/Navy Surplus.”
In fact, the first fire station for the Thalia Volunteer Fire Department was the one from Camp Ashby. The Central Library is now on that site.
At one point there was talk about reopening the TVMH as another hospital. Frank Cox suggested it be converted to a school for African American children. One man hoped to turn it into a restaurant but changed his mind after becoming aware of the building’s original use.
Continued on page 27
Matchbook from Camp Ashby (left), POW post card sent from Camp Ashby
Courtesy of Al Chewning
Divisive times need kindness & respect
By Adelia Gregoire, Psy.D. Contributor
We are living in divisive times. Social media and the regular intake of biased journalism masking as objective news have amplified conflict and disrespect in our society. What was once too crass or too rude to verbalize finds its way on social media posts, often leading to an escalation of accusations and insults. Most of us do not find satisfaction and comfort in these types of discourse. The vast majority of us would like to contribute to a more harmonious world. So let’s consider effective
ways to promote respectful and productive communication.
Always prioritize kindness and respect. Make kindness and respect more important than being right. Understand that without kindness and respect, it is unlikely that you will get your point across, much less change anyone’s mind.
Critically assess anything that you say or post about divisive issues. Be honest with yourself. What is your goal? Is it realistic? How can you say what you want to say in a way that others who think differently from you can hear it? Incendiary language, accusation and sarcasm promote anger and disconnection. If you are more interested in the “Zing” (and let’s be honest, sometimes we are!), you may want to reconsider sharing it.
Check your facts and be as truthful as you can. Understand the difference between opinion and truth. It is tempting to promote opinions as truths. Calling an opinion “my truth” is a provocative attempt to elevate it. To remain credible and respectful, share your opinions as opinions. Know your audience. Don’t engage with those who are clearly resolute or who are looking for a fight.
Pause before responding. Check your emotions. Give yourself time to move from emotional reactivity to intentionality and discernment.
Resist the temptation to assassinate the character of others who disagree with you. Don’t make assumptions or statements that either personalize or generalize (ie, “anyone who can say that has no conscience”).
Follow your inner Wisdom and stay aligned with your higher order values. Allow this to guide you in determining when to engage and when to let go and move on.
Conflict and disconnection harm us all. Let’s do our best to work through our differences productively by way of kindness and respect.
Adelia Gregoire
Simple Tax Savings Tips for 2024 and Beyond
By Anthony Papa Contributor
Anthony Papa
Federal and state income taxes can eat through a sizable portion of your earnings and hinder your ability to create multi-generational wealth. The good news – there are practical, simple strategies that can still be deployed to help reduce 2024 taxes.
Contribute to a Traditional Individual Retirement Account (IRA)
It’s not too late to contribute to an IRA for tax filing year 2024. The 2024 deadline is April 15, 2025. Traditional IRA contributions reduce taxable income. The deductibility is dependent on the IRA owner’s income and their access to a workplace retirement plan. The annual contribution limit is $7,000, plus $1,000 for owners over the age of 50.
Itemized Deductions
Since enactment of the Tax Cuts and Job Act in 2018, the majority of tax filers claim the standard deduction. With an increase in mortgage rates, the math may have shifted for some new homeowners. If you’re a new homeowner with a mortgage rate north of 6% your remitted interest may have exceeded $20,000 in 2024. Interest on primary mortgages reduces your taxable income. Also, the current law allows filers to deduct $10,000 for state and local taxes (SALT). Between remitted mortgage interest and the SALT deduction, you may have matched or surpassed the $29,200 standard deduction
for married and filing jointly. If you have additional deductions related to medical expenses or charity you may be able to materially decrease your tax liability by itemizing your deductions instead of taking the standard deduction. Schedule A is required for filers that take itemized deductions on their federal tax return.
Tax Credits
Tax credits reduce a filer’s tax liability dollar for dollar. Some tax credits are fully refundable, which means the filer may still receive the credit even if they do not owe federal income taxes. Perhaps the most widely used credit is The Child Tax Credit ($2,000 per qualified child). Additional tax credits are available for education, adoption and clean energy expenditures.
529 Contributions
If you own and contributed to a 529 education account in 2024, up to $4,000 can be deducted from your Virginia taxable income. If you contributed more than $4,000, the excess can carry forward into future years until it is exhausted. The deduction is available at account level. For instance, if you own and contributed $5,000 to each of your 5 grandchildren’s 529 accounts, you may take a deduction of $20,000 for the current tax year and carry forward $5,000. If you are age 70 or older on or before December 31 of the preceding year, you may deduct the entire $25,000 contributed during the taxable year. This deduction is not available at the Federal level. Virginia Schedule ADJ is required to take the education deduction on your State Income Tax return.
In personal finance as with life, it’s best to take a forward-
looking approach when attempting to minimize your tax liability. Review your federal and state withholdings. If your employer is withholding too much from your paycheck, you are giving the government a tax-free loan. If they are withholding too little, it’s possible you could face a penalty for underpayment. Consider contributing to an employer sponsored retirement plan. Depending on the plan, you may have an option to take an immediate tax benefit or defer the benefit until retirement via a ROTH. Additionally, your employer may match your contributions. If your employer offers a Health Savings Account (HSA), consider contributing to it. It’s an excellent mechanism for saving and / or investing as contributions are tax deductible, the money grows tax free and withdrawals for qualified healthcare expenses are tax free. Note, if you are enrolled in Medicare you cannot contribute
to a HSA. Withdrawals from a HSA for a non-qualified expense is taxed as regular income and could trigger a penalty if you are under age 65.
Reducing income taxes is a manageable goal with a little foresight and due diligence. Tax management is one step towards developing a healthy financial philosophy that is centered on building a stable life for you and your family.
Anthony Papa is a Financial Advisor with Davenport & Company. Anthony can be reached at 757-306-4817 or apapa@ investdavenport.com Davenport & Company is a financial services firm and does not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult your professional accounting or legal advisors prior to acting on any information provided by us that may have an effect in these areas.
CABINETS WITH FLAIR
Early spring flowers to brighten up your yard
By Nylia Laney Contributor
After a long winter, these bulbs and perennials will brighten up
your yard in early spring. When you see these blooming flowers you know warmer weather is on the way. Daffodils, grape hyacinths, tulips, crocus, celandine poppy and Virginia bluebells. Plant in the fall to enjoy in the spring. Pansies will come alive from their winter rest as well.
Nylia Laney is a native of Virginia Beach and enjoys nature photography.
Red Maple seed pods
Bumblebee on Bradford Pear tree bloom
Grape hyacinth
Daffodil
Pansies
All photos by Nylia Laney
Expert Tips for Building the Perfect Outdoor Kitchen
By Cheryl Lockhart Contributor
and entertaining. Whether you’re dreaming of weekend BBQs, pizza nights, or just a relaxing place to enjoy a meal outdoors, the key to success is smart planning. Here’s what you need to know to build an outdoor kitchen that’s both functional and stylish.
Think About Layout First
Before you start picking out appliances or materials, think about how you’ll actually use the space. The best layouts follow the “kitchen work triangle”— keeping your grill, sink, and fridge within easy reach. This makes cooking more efficient and keeps everything flowing smoothly.
Also, don’t forget counter space! You’ll need room for prepping food, setting down plates, and maybe even a bar area for guests to gather around while you cook.
Pick Materials That Can Handle the Elements
Unlike an indoor kitchen, your outdoor setup has to stand up to the weather—rain, sun, heat, and
even snow if you live in a colder climate.
• Countertops: Granite, concrete, or stainless steel work best since they’re heat- and weatherresistant.
• Cabinetry: Stainless steel, PVC, stone, or brick will hold up better than traditional wood.
• Flooring: Go for slip-resistant and durable materials like natural stone, pavers, or sealed concrete.
If you’re in a coastal area, opt for rust-resistant materials since salty air can be tough on metal surfaces.
Invest
in Quality Appliances
A great outdoor kitchen starts with a solid grill, but why stop there? If you love to entertain, think about adding a side burner, pizza oven, or even a smoker. Just make sure any appliance you choose is rated for outdoor use, especially refrigerators and sinks.
Cover Your Bases with Shelter and Ventilation
A little shade goes a long way when you’re cooking outside. A pergola, awning, or even a simple umbrella can protect you from the sun and light rain while making the space more comfortable.
If your kitchen is built against a wall or under a covered patio, you’ll also need proper ventilation to keep smoke and heat from getting trapped. A good vent hood can make all the difference.
Lighting and Utilities Matter
More Than You Think
You don’t want to be grilling in the dark! Install task lighting above your cooking area and add some ambient lighting (like string lights or sconces) to create a cozy atmosphere.
Also, make sure you have the right utility hookups. Gas, water, and electricity all need to be safely installed, so it’s worth bringing in a professional for this part.
Make It Easy to Maintain
Outdoor kitchens can get messy, so choose low-maintenance materials. Sealed stone countertops resist stains, stainless steel appliances are easy to clean, and a simple grill grease management system can save you a ton of headaches.
If you live somewhere with harsh winters, plan ahead by installing shut-off valves for water lines and investing in weatherproof covers for your appliances.
Add Personality with Extra Features
This is your space, so have fun with it! Fire pits, outdoor TVs, built-in seating, and even a surround sound system can take your outdoor kitchen to the next level. Small touches like potted plants, outdoor rugs, and decorative lighting can make it feel warm and inviting.
Final Thoughts
An outdoor kitchen is more than just a place to cook—it’s a gathering spot that can make your home feel bigger and more enjoyable year-round. By choosing the right layout, durable materials, and quality appliances, you’ll have a space that looks great and works effortlessly for years to come.
Cheryl Lockhart is a designer with Bayshore Design & Remodel of Virginia Beach. 757-502-8822 bayshorehomesolutions@gmail.com
As a SRES (Seniors Real Estate Specialist) professional, I can help you or your loved one through one of life’s most significant transitions. Downsizing can be an emotional step so let 34 years of real estate experience get you through this process. I have the tools to help so you can simplify your next chapter in life. Contact me today so we can get started.
Cheryl Lockhart
FTC Consumer Alert: Top Scams of 2024
Did you or someone you know report a scam to the FTC in 2024? Thank you! Those reports help the FTC bring enforcement cases and educate people about scams. Let’s jump into the top 2024 scams.
The headline is this: even though the number of fraud reports is roughly the same as last year, more people lost a lot more money to fraud. One in three people who reported fraud said they lost money (up from one in four last year), adding up to $12.5 billion (up $2.5 billion from 2023). People lost over $3 billion to scams that started online, compared to approximately $1.9 billion lost to more “traditional” contact methods like calls, texts, or emails. However, people lost more money per person (a median of $1,500) when they interacted with scammers on the phone. And, once again, impostor
scams topped the list of scams reported.
Here are some other things to know:
• The biggest scam losses happened by bank transfer or payment. Among all payment methods, people reported losing
more money through a bank transfer or payment ($2 billion), followed by cryptocurrency at $1.4 billion.
• Investment scams led to big losses. A majority (79%) of people who reported an investment-related scam lost money, with a median loss of
over $9,000. The $5.7 billion losses in this category are up about $1 billion from last year.
• People reported losing money more often when contacted through social media. Most people (70%) reported a loss when contacted on a social media platform — and lost more money overall ($1.9 billion).
• Job scams and fake employment agency losses jumped — a lot. Between 20202024, reports nearly tripled and losses grew from $90 million to $501 million.
• Younger people lost money more often. People aged 20-29 reported losing money more often than people 70+. But when older adults lost money, they lost far more than any other age group.
Used with permission from FTC
Asked to pay to claim a million-dollar prize? Don’t bet on it
Scammers sometimes make you think you’ve hit a stroke of good luck. But if your milliondollar cash prize letter comes with instructions to pay a small fee — maybe for taxes, reporting, or handling — it’s not luck. It’s a scam. If you pay, you’ll lose your money and find out there’s no prize. Can you spot a prize scam?
Scammers use the promise of a prize to steal your money or your personal information. They might say they’re from a well-known company like Publishers Clearing House and call, text, email, or message you
company will make you pay to claim a prize. Only a scammer will. Before responding, slow down and ask yourself these
What do others say? Search online and see what you find about the contest or company.
Type the name with terms like “review,” “complaint,” or “scam.”
Did anyone else get this message? While you’re checking online, see if others report getting the same message. If you got the offer
by mail, look at the postmark on the envelope or postcard. A bulk rate means other people got the same offer.
Did they ask me to pay or give sensitive personal information? If so, it’s a scam. There’s no reason to give your bank account or Social Security number to claim a prize. And only a scammer will insist you pay by wiring money through a company like Western Union or MoneyGram, using a payment app like Apple Pay, CashApp, PayPal, or Zelle, sending cash, or paying with gift cards or cryptocurrency to get your prize.
In 1950, Norfolk based Willis Furniture Company moved into the building after completing repairs and renovations. The timing was perfect, considering the post-war building boom and the Princess Anne County and Virginia Beach merger in the early 1960s. It became a local icon and the name “Willis Wayside” became synonymous with “fine furniture.”
During the 1990s, fifty years after the war, the store was occasionally visited by German tourists. These were former prisoners at Camp Ashby, returning to briefly relive the fond memories of their past.
By 2015, the upkeep of the old building was getting costlier, and there was an increased number of furniture stores. The decision was made to demolish the western end of the TVMH building, and lease out the site, but continue to do business in the modernized eastern end, where it is now.
In 2018, Aldi, the German based, international, discount grocer built a typical 11,000 square foot on the site. Where once there were German prisoners, now there are German merchants.
Al Chewning has lived in Virginia Beach his entire life. He is a retired firefighter, historian, author and storyteller. 757-469-7978 haunts@mindspring.com historiesandhaunts.com
The 5-Letter code* to enter at checkout for 10% off a private booking is found within this ad!
Postcard from Willis Wayside, courtesy of Al Chewning
Unlock the Fun with Friends, Families, and Co-workers
*Hint: Find the hidden red letters. **(Adj.) belonging
The Ultimate List For Selling Your Home
By Gary Layne Contributor
Gary Layne
Selling your home in Hampton Roads can be a complicated and stressful process. Here, we will lay out some of the ways you can best prepare for the sale and ensure you get top dollar for your home.
DECLUTTER EACH ROOM
Buyers will have a difficult time picturing themselves in the home if all that is in the rooms are personal belongings, mementos, and furniture. Even worse, there simply may be too much stuff in the home for any prospective buyer to view it properly.
You would like to make each room in the house feel big and open to the potential buyer’s
interpretation. If they are walking through the home with other visitors or family, they may feel overcrowded and question whether the home is spacious enough for their liking.
Not only will clutter and other items make the home feel small, but it will also have a significant impact on your bottom-line takeaway. Research has found that reducing clutter and wasted space in your home can add $2,500 to the value you receive at the sale. By reducing clutter, you will make the home more visually appealing and increase the value of your home.
The rooms you should be most focused on are the living room, kitchen, and primary bedroom. These spaces are consistently ranked most important to potential buyers. It is best to prioritize these rooms first.
DEEP CLEAN AND KEEP IT CLEAN
After decluttering, it is probable that you will realize a hearty deep cleaning is long overdue. You may want to do it yourself or hire a professional cleaning service. Even if you are dreading the clean, it is always worth the effort.
A deep clean, that you will want to keep maintaining, can add up to $2,000 to your home’s resale
value. Like decluttering, it is a simple solution to add some serious cash to your bottom line.
When you are ready to take the task head on, make a list of what is necessary. Kitchens and bathrooms are a great place to start the deep clean. Write out any and everything that needs to be cleaned, from appliances to faucets to the tile on your showers.
A Challenging Variety Of Golf Courses
Each room should get cleaning attention. Make sure to dust everything that can be dusted. Be sure to put fresh sheets and linens on beds. Clean all the carpets and rugs. Wash all your windows and screen doors.
In short, your home cannot be clean enough when it is time to put it on the market. It will make a world of difference to potential buyers.
MAKE ALL YOUR REPAIRS
While all homeowners have some level of routine maintenance, you do not want to leave a list of things to be repaired for a new owner. Not only may it prevent you from getting a deal done, but it leaves a bad impression if a buyer thinks you are leaving behind a laundry list of repairs. It is painful to spend the money on a repair knowing you will not enjoy the benefits of it. We know that. However, the benefits in the sales process are well worth the money spent.
Buyers will view it as “movein ready” which is a major advantage. Knowing there will be no significant repairs to spend on means they will be more likely to offer you full list price.
Some things, however, are not worth your time and money to fix. Here are a few fixes that may not be valuable to you as a seller:
• Minor electrical issues
• Cracks in the driveway
• Old appliances
• Cosmetic items
TIME YOUR HOME INSPECTION
In a fast-changing market with higher interest rates and more inventory sitting on the market, timing makes all the difference. You should consider investing in a home inspection prior to listing your home, especially if your home is older than 10+ years. This approach allows you to foresee potential issues that will interrupt your transaction, such as repairs.
Some of the repairs you have to make will be to pass a home inspection. You will want to ensure that your home is in great shape to pass an inspection.
During a home inspection, an inspector will check your home for water damage, roof condition, electrical problems, structural issues, or a variety of other things. Home inspectors have a checklist of 1,600 items according to the National Association of Home Inspectors.
Due to how much they are looking for, they will almost always find something that you need to fix. Do not take it personally, as they are just doing their jobs. In fact, their analysis puts you in the best position to sell your home.
Gary Layne is a Real Estate Agent & Owner of ProActive Real Estate Services. Direct 757-652-1225, Main Office 757-383-9510 gary@callproactive.com
Do You Know: Baseball
Only
MLB
Number Retired League-Wide
The number 42 is retired in every MLB ballpark in honor of Jackie Robinson, who broke the color barrier in baseball.
Longest Game - 26 Innings
According to MLB.com the longest baseball game in MLB history lasted three hours and 50 minutes on May 1, 1920. Ending with a tie score: Brooklyn Robins 1 , Boston Braves 1. The game was called due to darkness. 40 - 40 Club
“America’s Pastime”
Baseball is often called “America’s Pastime” due to its American origins and its role as a source of escapism during troubled times in American history.
Most World Series Titles
The New York Yankees have won the most World Series titles, with 27.
Only six players have achieved a 40-40 season (40 home runs and 40 stolen bases), including Jose Canseco, Barry Bonds, Alex Rodriguez, Alfonso Soriano, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Shohei Ohtani.
Source: AI Overview
Fenway Park, Boston MA
Test Your Knowledge of Major League Baseball Teams
Seven states have two teams. Can you name them? California, Florida, Illinois, Missouri, New York, Ohio and Texas
California has five teams. Can you name them?
Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Angels, San Diego Padres, San Francisco Giants and Oakland Athletics
What teams are farthest away from other teams?
Seattle Mariners, Colorado Rockies and Atlanta Braves
Did you know that all team names end with the letter “s” except for two? Can you name them? Boston Red Sox and Chicago White Sox
Can you name one team named for a body of water and one team named for a mountain range? Tampa Bay Rays and Colorado Rockies
There are seven teams in East Coast cities. From north to south: Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, DC, and Miami. Can you name the teams? Red Sox, Yankees, Mets, Phillies, Orioles, Nationals and Marlins
Only six teams have a state name in their team name. Can you name them?
Rockies, Minnesota Twins, New York Yankees, New York Mets and the Texas Rangers
