A Brief History of Princess Anne County
By Al Chewning
Author/Historian/ Storyteller
When Englishmen came ashore in April 1607, they named the location of the first landing, Cape Henry, in honor of Henry Frederick Stuart, the oldest surviving son of their King, James I. The purpose of their expedition was twofold: expand England’s territorial control, and perhaps find gold and
treasures like the Spanish had done in Central America many decades earlier. For their base of operations, they wanted a place that was less exposed to the elements, and easier to defend from potential enemies, so after a few days on the cape, the explorers sailed their three small ships into the Bay of the Chesepiok, an Indian word that means “a great water.”
Naming places as they went, they sailed up the James River, where they chose to establish a fort on James Island, and then built a small settlement they called “James Town.”
Al Chewning
Aerial view of the Princess Anne County Courthouse circa 1930s.
The New Year is an Opportunity to Live and Learn
By Karen Beardslee Kwasny Columnist
Karen Kwasny
My family celebrated New Year’s Eve together when I was a young girl. We’d meet at my paternal grandparents’ home, play music and ping pong until the ball dropped, and then have pork and sauerkraut for good luck the next day. I vaguely recall the adults discussing their plans for the new year, making predictions and sharing their hopes for the future.
I was too young to understand the significance of a resolution, yet I knew the adults were making plans for self-improvement. That sounded like a good idea to me; in my young view, most adults could use an upgrade. I did not pay attention to whether these resolutions were kept or accomplished. But as I grew, I came to understand and value the yearly impulse to alter our lives by considering our behaviors.
New Year’s resolutions date back to the Babylonians, who, among other things, committed the first days of the spring new year to returning borrowed farm equipment in preparation for the planting season ahead. When Julius Caesar started the Roman calendar in 46 B.C., the month of January
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marked the new year. January is named for the Roman god, Janus, whose two faces look both forward and back. We do the same thing when we consider ourselves at the end of one year and the beginning of another – where have I been, where am I going?
For many of us, the kind of introspection encouraged by a Janus-minded new year means resolutions that are a matter of lament and hope. We look back with a measure of regret – we behaved in ways we wish we hadn’t – we look forward with a dose of optimism – there’s potential for improvement.
If we don’t get mired in regret,
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Contributors
Dr. Joel English Al Chewning
Dr. Adelia Gregoire Nylia Laney
Mark Rusnak Karen Kwasny
Dr. Melissa McKendry
Ray Weinig
this introspection is a good thing. It can help us set resolutions for ourselves that are personal and achievable on a day-to-day basis. It may sound like psychobabble, but it’s worked for me.
When I wear the Janus mask at the end of each year, I look for specific points along the way when I could have been more authentic, less judgmental, easier going, less controlling, etc. I also look for moments when a subtle shift in my attitude, behavior, or outlook eased a burden, brought me joy or helped someone else navigate their day. Then, I resolve to fill the new year with fewer of the former and more of the latter. It’s the same resolution each year.
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When December comes, I look through the eyes of Janus and know where I’ve been. I look through the eyes of Janus and can see where I’m going. Such a road to resolution relieves the pressure to perform for others because, frankly, no one’s looking back or forward in my life but me.
The Babylonians had it right -- the same “resolutions” each year and each year a chance to hand back the hoe borrowed and forgotten. They didn’t find fault with themselves for the bad habit of procrastination or keeping something that didn’t belong to them. They didn’t search for a new challenge to conquer. It was enough to return the borrowed equipment in time for it to be of use -- to know the goal each year and aim for it.
It’s a worthy mindset as we head into the new year. If we don’t accomplish in 2025 what we set out to when we looked back at the year before, well, then, if we’re lucky, I suppose, there’s another year coming. We can always try again.
Karen Beardslee Kwasny is a former Virginia Beach Planning Commisioner and college professor. leejogger@gmail.com
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Sunrise at Sandbridge Little Island Fishing Pier
Adobe Stock
Local Events
Hampton Roads International Auto Show
Experience the most anticipated automobiles of 2025! From inovative tech to cutting-edge features and designs.
• Fri 1/10 10 am - 8 pm
Sat 1/11 10 am - 8 pm
Sun 1/12 10 am - 6 pm
• Adults 12 & Up $15
Seniors (65+) & Military (w/ ID) $12 12 and Under Free
• Virginia Beach Convention Center 1000 19th Street
• hamptonroadsautoshow.com
The Home Owners Expo
A one-stop expo for all your homeowner needs. Find contractors and save with great deals. Learn and get inspired!
• Sat 1/11 10 am -6 pm Sun 1/12 11 am - 5 pm
• 18 & older $6
Active & Retired Military $5 Children under 17 Free
• Cheseapeake Conference Center 700 Conference Centr Dr. Chesapeake
• thehomeownersexpo.com
Coastal Virginia
Weddings Showcase
Provides information for brides & grooms on the best vendors, samples, and planning a great wedding in coastal Virginia.
• Sun 1/12 1 pm - 4 pm
• $7 Advance, $10 At The Door
• The Founders Inn and Spa 5641 Indian River Road Virginia Beach
• coastalvirginiaweddings.com
Coastal Virginia Magazine WineFest
Featuring Virginia’s finest wines & spirits along with a beer garden, local cuisine & craft vendors and live entertainment.Must be 21 years of age or older. ID Req’d.
• Sat 1/18 1 pm - 7 pm Sun 1/19 1 pm - 6 pm
• Prices Vary - See Website
• Hampton Roads Convention Center 1610 Coliseum Drive, Hampton
• coastalvirginiawinefest.com
Mid-Atlantic Home & Outdoor Living Show
Refresh and update your home, garden or outdoor living space with the latest in style, technology and interiors. Meet local experts and exhibitors ready to help you create or update your desired indoor or outdoor space.
• Sat 1/18 10 am - 5 pm Sun 1/19 10 am - 4 pm
• Adults $8 Military & First Responders $6 Senoirs 62+ $6 Children 15 under Free
• Virginia Beach Convention Center 1000 19th Street
• midatlantichomeshow.com
January 2025
1/1 New Years’ Day
1/6 VB Public Schools Resume
1/20 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
1/20 VB Public Schools Closed
1/20 Inauguration Day
1/20 - 1/26 VB Restaurant Week
1/24 VB Public Schools Closed for Staff Day
The 72nd Annual Mid-Atlantic Sports and Boat Show
Biggest show of the season with over 3 acres of boats, kayaks, jet skis, marinas, boating supplies & services.
• Fri 1/31 noon - 7 pm Sat 2/1 10 am - 7 pm Sun 2/1 10 am - 5 pm
• 13 & up $10 12 & under Free
• Virginia Beach Convention Center 1000 19th Street
• vbboatshows.com
Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olypics Virginia
The coolest fundraising event of the year! Offering chills & thrills, costume contest and parade, live music, free Wawa hot chocolate and more.
• Fri 2/7 7 pm 5K Run/Waddle Sat 2/8 10 am - 2 pm, plunge at 1 pm
• Please see website for ticket fees
• Hilton Oceanfront Hotel 3001 Atlantic Avenue
• polarplunge.com
February 2025
Black History Month
2/2 Ground Hog Day
2/8 Polar Plunge
2/9 Super Bowl Sunday
2/14 Valentine’s Day
2/17 Washington’s Birthday & Presidents’ Day 2/17 VB Public Schools Closed
All events are subject to change. For the most current info please check event website.
Baker’s Crust 1628 Laskin Rd, Ste 704, VB
757-422-6703 bakerscrust.com
Baladi Mediterranean Café 626 Hilltop West Shopping Center, VB 757-425-8877 baladicafe.com
Beijing Palace 315 N Great Neck Rd Ste 308, VB 757-340-1302 beijingpalacevb.com
Boardwok 1993 Sandbridge Rd, VB 757-426-1700 boardwokvabeach.com
Bread Box Café 3157 Virginia Beach Blvd Suite 104-105, VB 757-463-5500 eatatbreadbox.com
Citrus Breakfast and Lunch 357 N Great Neck Rd, VB
Jen Thai Cuisine 1385 Fordham Dr #104, VB
Jimmy G’s Chop House & Bistro Bar 3333 Virginia Beach Blvd Unit 17, VB
757-222-9555 citrusvb.com
757-420-2424 jenthaivabeach.com
757-937-0658 jimmygsbistro.com
Kao Thai Restaurant 550 First Colonial Rd #309, VB 757-422-1027 kaothaivirginiabeach.com
Kervan Kebab House 1757 Parkview Dr B, Ches 757-233-9350 facebook.com/kervanchesapeake
Mannino’s Italian Bistro 4402 Princess Anne Rd Suite 107, VB 757-474-4446 manninositalianbistro.com
Oishi Sushi 817 Botetourt Ct, Ches
757-382-0011 chesapeakeoishisushi.com
Ramen Hero Noodle 1601 Hilltop West Shopping Center, VB 757-937-3765 ramenherousa.com
Taste of Thai on Blvd.
2884 Virginia Beach Blvd, VB 757-486-0108 tasteofthaionblvd.com
TASTE Unlimited 4097 Shore Dr, VB & Other Local Locations 757-464-1566 tasteunlimited.com
The Imperial Palace 3878 Princess Anne Rd, VB
The Stockpot Virginia Beach 700 19th St STE 106, VB
757-493-8838 imperialpalacevb.com
757-995-7197 virginiabeach.stockpotsoups.com
Most Popular Soups in the U.S.
according to AI Overview
Chicken Noodle Soup
chicken, carrots, celery, onions, egg noodles, broth
Gumbo chicken or seafood, okra, “holy trinity” of onion, celery, bell pepper, roux, with variations depending on regional preferences; most often featuring a hearty vegetable base and protein like chicken or seafood.
Clam Chowder
clams, potatoes, onions, bacon, milk, cream
Minestrone
various vegetables like tomatoes, carrots, beans, zucchini, pasta
Tomato Soup
tomatoes, onions, garlic, herbs
Potato Soup
potatoes, onions, butter, milk, cream, cheese
Peanut Soup?
Unfortunately, Virginia’s Peanut Soup did not make the most popular list.
Seafood Gumbo
Clean Eatz: Healthy, Flavorful and Affordable Meals Made Locally in Chesapeake and Virginia Beach
Clean Eatz originated in 2011 in Wilmington, N.C. and has expanded to 112 franchise locations. The Clean Eatz restaurants offer healthy, convenient, flavorful food at an affordable price. All of their meals are carefully prepared with a balanced ratio of proteins, carbs and fats, without any added sugar, salt, butter or oil. You can choose from premade meals from their in-store “grab & go” refrigerators, custom-made meals in their cafés, or weekly meal plans.
Dylan Richmond joined Clean Eatz in 2016. Born and raised in Charleston S.C., Richmond was working in the fitness industry when Clean Eatz opened their fourth location there. The opportunity to combine fitness with healthy eating sparked his
interest. He began by working at the new location and learned every job from Cashier to Kitchen Line Cook. Soon he was running the store as its Manager. He eventually helped open and manage other locations in the Southeast.
His ambition to own his own store led him to Virginia Beach. In August 2018 he brought the healthy, fast, casual dining franchise to the Haygood area. It quickly became one of the highest volume locations for the entire company.
Thanks to their established online ordering system, they survived and thrived during the pandemic by providing customized meals that could be ordered online and safely picked up or delivered.
Founded by Don and Evonne Varady
NC first Clean Eatz opens
Summer Beef
Dylan Richmond
All photographs provide by Dylan Richmond
In 2021, Richmond took advantage of the company’s offer to expand to Chesapeake and opened a store there in January of 2022. Both of his stores are open seven days a week and serve approximately 6,000 meals weekly.
Historically, the most popular item on his menu is the Mac n Cheese. Since the company encourages innovation and development at a local level, Richmond built on the success of the Mac n Cheese and created his Bourbon Chicken Mac n
Cheese (chicken, penne pasta, and cheddar cheese). It was a hit at all of the Clean Eatz locations and became the best-selling meal across the company during 2023.
Richmond sees an opportunity for expansion into the corporate world where healthy and tasty lunch options are limited. He wants to provide large corporations nutritious lunches for their employees which will also serve to benefit employee health.
The Shoppes at Greenbrier
Virginia Beach Location
Opening Soon: Habit Burger & Grill
Habit Burger & Grill is opening up their first location in Hampton Roads, and their fifth in Virginia right here in Virginia Beach. The other Virginia locations include Ashburn, Chantilly, Fredericksburg (Plank) and Richmond (Midlothian).
Founded in Santa Barbara, California in 1969, Habit Burger & Grill has since expanded across the country to now have 372 locations nationwide, with their headquarters in Irvine, California. Famous for their chargrilled burgers and shakes, Habit is now owned by
Yum Brands, a parent company which also owns Kentucky Fried Chicken, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell.
The new building is located on Virginia Beach Boulevard at the location of the old Boston Market, across the street from Loehmann’s Plaza. According to their website, they will be opening soon. The restaurant will have both indoor dining and takeout, both of which will be open Monday through Sunday, from 10:30 AM until 10:00 PM.
• 3981 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach
• Famous for their chargrilled burgers and shakes
• Expected to open in late December
• Open 10:30 AM to 10 PM, Monday through Sunday
• For more information, visit habitburger.com Story and Photos by Noah Delorenzo
Security Updates for Windows 10 Ends Next Year
By Ray Weing
Contributor
Windows 10 is the most popular operating system Microsoft has ever released. In less than a year and a half, Windows 10 will reach its end-of-support date on October 14, 2025, at which time Microsoft will no longer release security updates for the operating system. If you’re like me, you have one or more perfectly good Windows 10 computers that are not eligible to upgrade to Windows 11.
What does it mean if your Windows 10 computer is ineligible to upgrade to Windows 11? Very simply, Microsoft has strict hardware compatibility requirements for Windows 11, and if your computer does not meet these, it will not be eligible for a free upgrade to Windows 11. These include CPU and the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 requirements. If you have a computer from 2019 or earlier, the CPU is unlikely supported. TPM 2.0 chips came out in 2015, so if your Windows 10
computer is older than that, the motherboard most likely does not contain a TPM 2.0 chip.
According to Microsoft, there are over 1.4 billion Windows computers worldwide, and according to third-party statistics, up to 6070% of those computers are running Windows 10. Some of those computers may have the hardware required to run Windows 11, but a large proportion do not. This would imply that hundreds of millions of perfectly functional computers are destined for the landfill come October 2025.
So what are Windows 10 owners supposed to do when the October 2025 end-of-support date hits? Microsoft hopes you will ditch
your old computer and purchase a new Windows 11 PC. You could continue to use your Windows 10 computer without security updates, but that would be foolish as your machine would be vulnerable to online attackers. There is a registry hack you can perform to bypass the Windows 11 hardware compatibility requirements and install Windows 11 on the unsupported Windows 10 hardware, but Microsoft discourages this, and states that you may have compatibility issues or that your device may not be entitled to receive security updates. Finally, you can repurpose your old hardware to run either Linux or ChromeOS Flex. Both are free, open source operating systems, and will run on practically any hardware released in the last decade or so. And both run virtually all Windows applications you currently run on your Windows 10 computer, with some caveats. But that’s a topic for another time.
Microsoft created this problem, and Microsoft will have to solve it.
For now, they are insisting the October 2025 end-of-support date is firm. But history notes that Microsoft has compromised on its endof-support dates once before with Windows XP. XP was released in 2001 and was scheduled for retirement in 2011, but the business community complained that Windows 7 had only been out for two years and businesses had not had enough time to evaluate the new operating system to switch to it. Microsoft extended XP’s end-ofsupport date to 2014 to accommodate the business community and could do so again for Windows 10. This issue will probably remain under the radar through 2024, but as we get into 2025, I suspect the idea of throwing away perfectly functional computers to support an end-of-support date for Windows 10 will again resurface, and Microsoft will have to address it then. Stay tuned!
Ray Weing is a Senior Support Computer Specialist and owner of Techs On Wheelz. 757-490-0702
Be on the Lookout for Wintering Birds in Our Area
By Nylia Laney Contributor
Wintertime is a great time for birdwatching in our area. While some of the birds that we see in the summer migrate back to the south, we still have our resident birds that stay for
the winter and birds from the north that make their home in our area for the winter. Some of the favorite resident birds for many bird watchers in our area in the winter are northern cardinals, blue jays, eastern bluebirds, tufted titmice,
chickadees and eagles. Some of the favorite migrants from the north are the white-throated sparrow, dark-eyed junco, orange-crowned warbler, ruby-crowned kinglet, and one of my favorite migrants is the yellow-rumped warbler, also
known as the “butter-butt”. Of course, it is named for the large beautiful spot of yellow on their behind. Once I see the butter-butt, I know that cold weather is here or is soon to
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All photos by Nylia Laney
Yellow-rumped Warbler aka “Butter-Butt”
Northern Cardinal Tufted Titmouse
White-throated Sparrow
follow. I love the way they flit around and playfully chase each other.
Winter is a great time to feed birds because it can help them survive, especially when the ground freezes. Putting up feeders can attract birds to your yard. Be sure to always keep your feeders clean and fresh. It is also important to provide water and shelter. Heated birdbaths are a great choice in freezing tempera-
tures. Putting up bird houses where birds can roost is another way of attracting birds to your yard. Who knows, you may attract an eastern screech owl to roost if you live near a wooded area.
Different birds like different seeds. If you want to attract a certain bird, research what kind of seed is the bird’s favorite. There are also different types of feeders for the different types of seeds. I use a hopper
feeder for black oil sunflower and safflower seed for cardinals and blue jays. I use a varied blend for my tube feeder for finches, chickadees and titmice and a peanut feeder for shelled peanuts for the woodpeckers and nuthatches. I make my own suet, a recipe I got from the internet to put in my window feeder. It seems to attract many types of birds, including rarely seen birds in our area in the winter, specifically the western
tanager and Baltimore orioles. Birdwatching is a great hobby and some studies have shown that it can impove your mental health.
I know birding helps me to connect with nature and that brings me a tremendous amount of joy!
Nylia Laney is a native of Virgnia Beach and enjoys nature photography.
Eastern Bluebird
Western Tanager
Offshore Wind Brings Many Benefits to Virginia
By Joel A. English Contributor
Approved in January by the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW) project will consist of 176 wind turbines nearly 30 miles off the coast and power up to 660,000 Virginia homes with clean, reliable energy. The project will bring with it economic growth and jobs to Virginia Beach and throughout the commonwealth, now and for years to come. And while the project has entered its less-than-exciting construction phase and conversation surrounding the project continues, we must continue to keep the long-term benefits and opportunities presented by offshore wind top of mind.
Post-construction, the project is expected to provide 1,100 jobs annually, contributing more than $82 million in pay and benefits each year. An economic impact study forecasted that the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind farm’s construction phase will create approximately 900 direct and indirect jobs each year. This represents a substantial economic boost for the region, showcasing the project’s potential to not only provide clean energy but also significantly impact the local workforce.
Because of the project, the Port of Virginia is already well positioned to become a hub for the industry as shipments have begun to come in for the construction of the wind farm in recent months. We’ve seen investments in the region rolling in as the project has progressed. In April, the Charybdis, which is the United States’ first Jones Act-compliant offshore wind turbine installation vessel, launched from land to water after being constructed in Brownsville, Texas. During its construction, the Charybdis created more than 1,100 jobs. Upon its arrival, the vessel will be housed in Hampton Roads and will play a major role in supporting both the CVOW project and the growing offshore wind industry.
Earlier this year, the first six monopile foundations were also loaded onto the installation vessel and have made their way to the project site. After having “passed the first test,” it is now abundantly clear that our ports are proving themselves to be capable of supporting this fast-growing industry. This means that the investments in the Hampton Roads area are sure to continue.
This project is setting up Virginians for futures of success in the sector. Workforce development is ramping up across the commonwealth to support the offshore
wind industry. The New College Institute in southwest Virginia recently started Virginia’s first wind technician training program, and it also partnered with Centura College and the Mid-Atlantic Maritime Academy to open a new training academy in the field. In Hampton Roads, Centura College has already graduated dozens of Global Wind Organization-certified graduates from its Wind Turbine Technician program, and these graduates are ready to go to work installing, inspecting and repairing the turbines as the program launches. Virginia is more than prepared to meet the need for workers, and this industry will create lifelong, successful careers for many.
The positive effects of offshore wind extend far beyond our work-
force and economics. The environmental benefits of transitioning to renewable energy sources are essential in the fight against climate change. By harnessing the power of the wind, we contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future for Virginia Beach and beyond. Dominion Energy has spent years conducting extensive survey work and has put measures in place to ensure that ocean life and avian species remain protected throughout the construction and operation of this project.
The turbines will be difficult to see from shore since they are so far off the coast and due to the natural curve of the Earth. While they may be easier to see in the evening or from high elevation, the potential visibility has been proven to have a minimal tourism impact, and can even attract sustainable energy tourism. To me, this is a worthwhile tradeoff. Because while it is crucial to address these local concerns and the construction noise some are hearing, it is equally important to recognize that these projects are laying the foundation for a sustainable and prosperous future for our region. It’s not perfect, but it’s a necessary inconvenience that will earn long-term economic and environmental payoff.
The offshore wind industry presents an unprecedented opportunity for Virginia Beach to lead the nation in sustainable energy practices, creating a legacy of success for generations to come. As we navigate through the challenges of the present, let us keep our eyes on the promising horizon that offshore wind brings, ensuring a brighter, cleaner future for our state and region.
Joel A. English, Ph.D., is president of Centura College in Virginia Beach.
College
New Location - Mobile Pet Doc is on the Move
Mobile Pet Doc has a new home base near the Hilltop area of Virginia Beach. From their new location in the Beach Business Park near the intersection of First Colonial Road and Virginia Beach Boulevard, they will continue to provide professional medical care by traveling to you. Their service areas include: Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton, and Newport News. On-site services will soon be offered at this location.
In 2015, Dr. McKendry opted to launch a mobile service following years of tending to animals in shelters, delivering extensive medical care to police K-9 units, and dealing with the forensic side of cruelty cases in Virginia Beach. She takes pleasure in venturing into the
community to offer services like medical care and ultrasonography in the comfort of pet owners’ homes.
After beginning her undergraduate studies in the UK, Melissa McKendry earned her degree from the University of Tennessee, College of Veterinary Medicine in 1997. Commencing her career in private practice, she later transitioned to emergency and referral medicine while obtaining board certification as a Diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (Canine and Feline).
Throughout her professional journey, she specialized in advanced diagnostics and ultrasonography, providing services to veterinary practices through travel. Following experiences in the North East and Southern
California, Dr. McKendry and her family ultimately settled in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
Dr. McKendry and her team are ready to provide your pet with compassionate mobile veterinary medical care. From wellness exams and vaccines to diagnostics and laser therapy, your dog or cat will receive high-quality care.
Stroll with the Trolls at the Virginia Aquarium
By Noah Delorenzo Contributor
There are some new guests at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, and not the fishy kind.
Six trolls, created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo as part of his “TROLLS: Save the Humans” collection, have come as the first changing outdoor exhibition.
Found exploring the woods along Owl Creek, they are not strangers to traveling, having already visited Georgia, Philadelphia, Tennessee, and California.
The trolls promote recycling, being made entirely of recycled materials and displayed as recycling things themselves, being made primarily out of recycled wood such as shipping pallets. Rosa Sunfinger is seen with a roofless red Smart Car, utilizing it as a large planter for a sapling
tree. Kamma Can wears colorful jewelry made out of all manner of plastic recyclable materials. Still others encourage us to explore and learn about the world we all live in. Sofus Lotus holds his ear to the ground, inspiring us to listen to the subtle changes in our environment. Ibbi Pip carries bird houses in a sack, reminding us that we are not alone on this planet.
Dambo is a self-described “dedicated dumpster diver,” using
his unique trash-foraging abilities to find inspiration and materials for his sculptures, simultaneously decreasing the amount of trash in the world.
The trolls will not be at the aquarium forever, saying goodbye on January 20, 2025. Visiting them is included with general admission. Guests are welcome to touch and even climb on the trolls.
All photos by Noah Delorenzo
Norfolk State University Basketball
Old Dominion UniversityBasketball
Men’s
Basketball Schedule 2024 - 2025
2/1
2/15
2/22
Women’s Basketball Schedule 2024 - 2025
1/25 Howard Home 2:00 PM
2/1
Carolina State Home 2:00 PM
2/3 North Carolina Central Home 5:30 PM
2/15 Maryland Eastern Shore Away 2:00 PM
2/17 Delaware State Home 5:30 AM
2/22 Coppin State Away 2:00 PM
2/24
3/1
3/3
3/6
All games are subject to change. For the most current info please check school website.
06:00 PM
Maintaining a Healthy Body Weight: The Key to Preventing Arthritis in Pets
By Dr. Melissa McKendry Contributor
Over the years I have seen thousands of supplements which claim to prevent or treat pain
and arthritis in dogs and cats. Glucosamine and chondroitin being at the top of the list and more recently, CBD oil. Some of the ingredients I cannot come close to pronouncing. The reality is that none of these have ever been shown to actually have any benefits in regards to arthritis in any real clinical trial.
If you are my client and present me with one of these products, in most cases, my response will be that it probably cannot do any harm but has no benefit. The dangerous exception is “Canine aspirin”. Years ago when I was working at an ER in San Diego I saw a 120 plus pound German Shepherd that had a fatal bleeding stomach ulcer as a result of receiving 1 baby aspirin daily for 1 week. Most over-the- counter anti-inflammatory drugs for people are dangerous for dogs and cats. In addition, Aspirin has no benefit, it does not decrease pain or inflammation.
The bottom line is don’t waste your money! The single most beneficial way to decrease the progression of arthritis in dogs
and cats is weight management. There is a lot of concrete evidence that obesity is the key external factor in the development of osteoarthritis. We can’t change your pets’ genetic makeup but you can add years to your pets quality of life by keeping him/her lean.
Maintaining a healthy body weight can be a challenge for some dogs and cats. It really isn’t much different than it is with us. Often I ask about what is being fed to a dog and it is usually a high quality diet as the main meal. When asked about treats the list is often long and many of the items on that list are terrible. If you have Pup-Peroni or anything equivalent, throw it away!! Chicken jerky that is “outsourced globally” (ie: made in China), treat it like toxic waste. Also, don’t be fooled by “packaged in the USA”. Some of these are unhealthy or just junk calories and the ingredients are probably not sourced here.
It can be difficult to navigate through the marketing tactics to get a true analysis of what you are feeding your pet. I recommend an independently owned pet food store where the selection is based on quality and the owner and staff are extremely knowledgeable and can guide you in your choices.
Exercise is not the cure for obesity but it is helpful with weight management and mentally stimulating for your dog.
Even if you have a large yard for your dog to run in it is no replacement for a walk where they can investigate the world with their amazing nose.
Now cats are NOT small dogs. They are carnivores and all those fatty felines out there are addicted to carbs. I will discuss the feline diet in another article but it should be roughly 70% protein. High quality canned foods achieve close to this and most commercial dry foods do not. I will explain more of this in my article about urinary issues in cats but as far as weight management is concerned, canned food will greatly help manage the cats waistline and slow the progression of arthritis.
In conclusion, weight management is the most important factor in preventing and treating arthritis in dogs and cats. Avoid over the counter anti-in-
flammatory drugs, especially aspirin, as it can be harmful. Instead, focus on feeding your pet high quality, protein-rich diets, and providing regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
In future articles, I will discuss other treatments for osteoarthritis and pain management in aging pets including joint injections, laser treatments, and nerve growth factor blockers. The goal is to help your furry friends live a happy and healthy life for as long as possible.
Dr. McKendry is board certified for the Diplomate American Board of Veterinary Practiioners (Canine and Feline) & owner of Mobile Pet Doc in Virginia Beach. She can be reached at mobilepetdoc.com and 757-617-1243
Dr. Mckendry
Solar Energy is Rising in Popularity: So Are the Scams
By Larrisa Bungo Senior Attorney FTC
Did a salesperson knock on your door and promise free rooftop solar panels at no cost to you? Or say you’ll never have to pay another electricity bill because government programs, grants, or rebates cover your solar installation? It’s likely a scam. While there are some government-funded solar programs for households that qualify, “going solar” isn’t free. Honest businesses will tell you exactly how much it’ll cost to get and install solar panels. Here’s how to steer clear of the scams:
Do some research. Avoid solar companies that say a government program will cover the whole cost of solar panels — or say they’re
from (or affiliated with) the government. These are lies. If you’re looking at solar energy for your home, get quotes from reputable providers with a valid license. Then compare them. Check out the Department of Energy’s guide for homeowners and commonly asked questions to learn more.
Don’t pay advance fees. Steer clear of anyone promising big savings and demanding large upfront payments or deposits. To get you to pay, scammers promise you big savings if you act fast — but they’ll vanish with no intention of ever doing or finishing the work. Legitimate providers will work
with you to figure out whether solar energy is right for you. Check out the Department of Treasury’s guidance on clean energy.
Take your time. If someone is rushing you to sign a contract, or insists you sign an agreement on an electronic tablet without showing you the full agreement, stop. That’s something scammers do. Take the time to read and understand the agreement with the provider. Pay attention to warranties, cancellation policies, payment schedules, and try to spot any hidden fees. Honest businesses will give you time to go over the terms of the contract, understand the agreement, and let you sign it in writing.
Used with permission from FTC
Is It Time to Re-Consider Your Housing Situation?
By Mark A. Rusnak Contributor
As our lives advance to the next chapter, so will our housing needs and demands.
Some may choose to stay in one place for what seems like eternity, and others may not mind a housing change every few years. Some, unfortunately, due to some unforeseen circumstances, may not have a choice. Whatever the circumstances, here are some key points to take into account when considering a change to an alternative living situation:
• Economic Reasons
When current retirement or social security income can’t keep up with the escalating cost of home ownership and maintenance or perhaps the financial responsibility is beginning to eat away at
your savings, it’s time to consider downsizing!
• Relocation
A move to be closer to family or friends may be beneficial for all concerned or perhaps a change in surroundings for a new life in another location is needed for a renewed lease on life.
• Physical Ability
Older adults may find that climbing stairs may become a challenge or suddenly there is a need of a wheelchair accessible residence.
A move to leave precious memories behind might be necessary for a senior’s emotional well-being.
• Lifestyle Changes
“Empty Nesters” may no longer need to be close to work. A desire to replace yard work and home maintenance for a new lifestyle of playing golf or bridge with friends may become a priority.
• Cash-Out
Homeowners may want to take advantage of the new tax laws
and “cash-out”. Downsizing can produce equity to help fund a new lifestyle, allow the purchase of a vacation home or an income producing property.
• Reduce Responsibilities
A “Lock It and Leave It” home creates an attractive lifestyle of complete freedom, leisure activities and unrestricted travel.
Whatever the reason, a home may very well be the biggest investment made over the course of a lifetime, and it could also be the most valuable asset. Seniors should be cautious, open-minded and consider all options before making a decision to re-locate.
Before making one of the most
important decisions of a lifetime, older adults should discuss a major move with family members and, most importantly, get good counsel from a professional Seniors Real Estate Specialist who has first-hand experience and knowledge to explain all the options, opportunities and resources available.
Mark A. Rusnak, Associate Broker, ABR, e-Pro, Seniors Real Estate Specialist, Certified Luxury Homes Marketing Specialist, Certified Distressed Property Expert @ RE/MAX Allegiance. For more information, call 718-8865/490-7300 Ext. 305.
Mark A. Rusnak
RESIN ART CLASSES
Managing Media and Mental Health
By Adelia Gregoire, Psy.D. Contributor
Adelia Gregoire
Let’s face it, it’s difficult to get away from the news. Unfortunately, this is harming us. The amplification of divisive topics along with a distrust of news sources is robbing us of our emotional well-being. This, in combination with an unremitting news cycle, elicits a sense of helplessness, impairs decision-making and interferes with coping skills. It would be difficult to find someone in our society who hasn’t felt activated by headlines related to the pandemic, racial injustice, or mass shootings. To make matters worse, smartphones and social media, the primary news sources for many of us, are addictive. Research shows that use of smartphones and social media stimulates the reward center in our brain and increases the release of dopamine, creating a sense of euphoria. As the dopamine effects recede, our mood plummets and we seek out the mood enhancing activity, resulting in an unstable and unsustainable mood cycle. So how do you stay informed and maintain your mood? The short answer is to limit news intake and to put it in proper perspective. The following are tips to help you accomplish these two goals:
• Turn off news notifications to minimize intrusions to your day.
• Schedule “tech free” time every day. Rather than scrolling through the news on your lunch hour, read a book, complete a puzzle, socialize with a friend.
• Establish a “no phones at the dinner table” rule.
• Consider how much time is reasonable for news and social media. Monitor and enforce it with timers. When you are on social media, set a timer for 15 minutes to prevent you from losing an hour or more to a passive and largely unproductive activity.
• Prioritize the issues and know which ones matter most to you and which ones matter less. Without this self-knowledge we are vulnerable to increased emotional reactivity to any provocative news item, regardless of the ultimate importance it holds for us.
• Put sensationalistic stories in proper perspective. As devastating as a bear attack or a lightning strike can be, how likely is it that it will happen to you? We can have empathy for others without activating our own alarm systems.
• Determine what you can do. Resolve to take steps that matter to you and, just as importantly, accept those things that you can do nothing about or are not worthy of your energy. This will protect you from feelings of helplessness and frustration which contribute to anxiety and depression.
In short, if you are intentional and discerning about what you consume and how you consume it, you can stay informed and maintain your sense of well-being.
Adelia Gregoire, Psy.D. is a Licensed Clincal Psychologist with Community Psychological Resources in Norfolk Virginia.
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In 1612 John Rolfe discovered that a particular variety of tobacco grew extremely well in this region and by 1619 it was being cultivated in the area called Elizabeth Cittie (sic). Currently the cities of Hampton, Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, and Chesapeake.
Tobacco became the treasure King James was hoping to find. In 1624 he dissolved the Virginia Company and declared Virginia a Royal Colony. In 1634, the English King decreed that his colony should be divided into eight shires (or counties). By 1691, after several name changes, Princess Anne County was formed. The name was in honor of Anne Stuart, the King’s sister, who ascended to the throne in 1702.
Beginning in the mid-1880s, there are written mentions of an oceanside village called Virginia Beach. In 1906, Virginia Beach was incorporated into a town, and in 1952, Virginia Beach became a small independent city, separate from Princess Anne County. Over the years, as the City of Norfolk sought to expand its boundaries, it would annex portions of Princess Anne County. The Ocean View area is an example. The County, to preserve its own property, merged with Virginia Beach and on January 1, 1963, because of the merger, the current city of Virginia Beach was created, and Princess Anne County ceased to exist.
Twice during the Revolutionary War, County militiamen faced off against British troops and German mercenaries. The first time was a skirmish at Kemps Landing (Kempsville), in November 1775. The second time was near the James Plantation (Pungo) in February 1781 and involved British troops under the command of infamous traitor, Benedict Arnold. Kemps Landing is also where Lord Dunsmore issued his proclamation demanding that all loyal subjects “not to aid, abet, or give countenance to” anyone disloyal to the King, “but oppose them by every means.”
Princess Anne County is specifically mentioned in President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, and again when the United States Life Saving Service was established in the1870s, the first station with all black staff and crew was in Princess Anne County. Also, the first African-American lighthouse keeper.
In 1887 Alexander Graham Bell vacationed at the Princess Ann Inn on the oceanfront. In 1903 President Grover Cleveland stayed at the Princess Anne Inn and went duck hunting in near-by Back Bay. In 1943, the U.S. Navy established Oceana Auxiliary Airfield, which would become the Country’s largest military air station.
Most people are not aware of the historic significance of Princess Anne County. As mentioned, it was the site of the “first landing”, but Cape Henry is also the location of this country’s first federally funded lighthouse, ordered by President George Washington and commissioned in 1792. The cost was $15,600. It still stands, open to the public, and is scheduled for a major restoration to ensure it remains for future generations to appreciate. Within a few hundred yards is the “new” lighthouse, completed 1881. Still active, it is the first cast iron lighthouse built in this country.
Princess Anne County ceased to exist on January 1, 1963, when it merged with the much smaller City of Virginia. The merger was done, in part, to stop Norfolk’s post-war expansion.
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
Do You Know? Inauguration of the President
The 20th amendment to the Constitution specifies that the term of each elected President of the United States begins at noon on January 20 (or January 21 if January 20 falls on a Sunday) of the year following the election. Each president must take the oath of office before assuming the duties of the position. The inauguration ceremony takes place at the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, DC.
Vice-President
The vice-president-elect is sworn in first and repeats the same oath of office, in use since 1884, as senators, representatives, and other federal employees:
“I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter: So help me God.”
President
Around noon, the presidentelect recites the following oath in accordance with Article II, Section I of the U.S. Constitution:
“I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.”
Architect of the Capitol
The Rise of Pickleball: A Sport for Everyone
Pickleball, a dynamic combination of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, is rapidly becoming one of the most popular sports in the United States. Invented in 1965 by three dads in Washington state, it was initially created as a family-friendly game. Today, it attracts players of all ages and skill levels, thanks to its easy-to-learn rules and minimal equipment requirements.
The game is played on a smaller court, typically indoors or outdoors, with a paddle and a plastic ball featuring holes. Players can enjoy singles or doubles matches, making it a versatile option for casual play or competitive tournaments. Its appeal lies in the social
aspect, as community centers, parks, and gyms increasingly offer courts and leagues.
Health benefits abound as well; pickleball provides an excellent cardiovascular workout while improving agility, balance, and handeye coordination. Its low-impact nature makes it accessible for older adults, contributing to its surging popularity among seniors.
As more people discover the joys of pickleball, it continues to foster connections and create a sense of community. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a beginner looking for fun, pickleball is an engaging way to stay active and socialize.
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