The Cavalier Hotel: A Beacon of Elegance and Legacy in Virginia Beach
By Al Chewning
Author/ Historian/ Storyteller
Perched atop a grassy hill overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the Cavalier Hotel has stood as a symbol of luxury, innovation, and cultural significance in Virginia Beach since its grand opening in 1927. More than just a resort, the Cavalier has been a stage for American history, hosting presidents,
celebrities, and generations of vacationers drawn to its opulence and charm.
Story continues on page 12
Image courtesy of Al Chewning
The Cavalier, Virginia Beach
Al Chewning
We Are Your Age In Place Specialists!
December 5-7 & 12-14, 2025
Regent University, Studio Theatre
Four spirited ladies in 1942 Texas face an unexpected challenge when a timid bride-to-be arrives in town, hoping to marry her soldier before he ships out for WWII. For 60-somethings Laura Lee, Bobrita, Violet, and Glendine, the answer is obvious: a race against time to pull together an elaborate wedding in a single frenzied afternoon! Will the four feisty friends overcome their Garden Club squabbles and succeed?
Ramps & Rails
Ella’s Bubbles Dealer
Patience is a virtue -- and a lesson
By Karen Beardslee Kwasny Columnist
Karen Kwasny
A colleague once told me that I lacked patience. She wasn’t the first person to say this to me. My father told me the same thing throughout my life. He said that our personalities were a lot alike, meaning we both struggled to pause as things unfolded. It took my father many decades to find the serenity that our Type A personalities naturally resist, and that is essential to waiting. After he retired, he demonstrated what he had learned by holding vigils at the kitchen window for the hummingbirds to arrive each morning, a process that sometimes took all day. It’s harder nowadays to see the value of waiting. The urge for instant gratification is all around us, fueled by our easy access to shopping, news, and each other through texts and social media. However, recent traumatic events that hit close to home have compelled me to wait — for news, for conversation, or for something to do — and to use life’s long pauses in space and time to reflect on the present.
The initial stages of most disasters involve quick responses aiming for fast results. This was true when my community faced a challenge
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that required urgent attention.
The first thing we did was ask, ‘What can we do?’ – and then we acted based on what we believed was necessary in the moment. However, resolving the issue would take time, and the process would continue for an unknown period.
Every day, I wondered what I could do to speed things up. I searched the internet for new information about a faster way forward. I read blogs and followed social media pages that offered quick solutions for almost any problem. My grandmother’s voice kept echoing in my mind, “A watched pot never boils,” but I stayed vigilant. Finally, after some time searching for answers and impatiently waiting for things to change, I sank back into my chair, feeling helpless to do anything.
The issue wasn’t the actual
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Contributors
Al Chewning Karen Kwasney
Dr. Adelia Gregoire Nylia Laney
Kim Reed Buddy Parker
Anthony Papa John Gregoire
Danny Wasserman Ray Weinig
Mark Reed (October Edition)
problem – it was my tendency to rush toward the solution. My habit was to move quickly past the present to reach a future outcome. I failed to see that progress was being made – even if slowly –and that each step along the way deserved recognition, if not outright applause.
This realization altered my perspective on everyday life. I started noticing how good it felt to be in a moment, regardless of what I was doing, enjoying the fact that I was in that place. If I were gardening, rather than thinking about the blooms to come, I’d stop to notice the light breeze moving around me. I let joy wash over me when my son called with news of a recent promotion rather than thinking about what might come next for him. I savored watching the dog run for her ball
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
and then hurry back to me for more. I put off considering my “to-do” list at home to laugh at her antics. I altered my bedtime prayer from a plea for something to happen tomorrow to one of gratitude for what I had at that moment – my husband next to me, the dog sleeping soundly at the foot of the bed, my lovely home, and healthy children – the simple list goes on.
Not too long ago, a friend sent me an email that said, “Let the chair hold you.” I’m not sure where he got the phrase. Perhaps, it’s a matter of faith. Or, it’s a matter of letting the present unfold – a way of saying “thank you for your patience.”
Karen Beardslee Kwasny is a former Virginia Beach Planning Commissioner and college professor. leejogger@gmail.com
accountability for all content of advertisements published and for any claims arising from such advertising. LSM does not validate for licenses, endorse nor warrant any advertised businesses or services. Publisher reserves the right to revise or reject any material, including advertisements. The opinions conveyed in the editorials and contributed articles are not necessarily those of the editor and publisher.
Adobe Stock
Now open
1 Born Primitive Retail Store
The Shops At Hilltop 1612 Laskin Road Virginia Beach, 23451 (757)301-6514 (from website) bornprimitive.com
2 Chick N Roll (Holland)
4300 Holland Road Virginia Beach 23452 (757) 904-3928 (from website) chicknrollva.com
3 Senior Helpers
2933 Virginia Beach Blvd Virginia Beach, 23452 757-578-9628 (from website) seniorhelpers.com/va/virginia-beach/
4 Tosa’s mood-n-food 1601 Hilltop West Shopping Ctr, Virginia Beach, 23451 757-650-4599 (from website) tosasvb.com
Opening soon Relocations
1 Golf Galaxy Columbus Village at Town Center 220 Constitution Drive Virginia Beach, 23462 stores.golfgalaxy.com/
2 Plix Plex
Challenge arcade 210 Laskin Road
Virginia Beach. 23451 (Former BOA building)
3 Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers
675 Lynnhaven Parkway Intersection of Sabre St. Virginia Beach, 23452 (757) 978-3292 (from website) locations.raisingcanes.com
4 Trader Joe’s Columbus Village at Town Center 220 Constitution Drive Virginia Beach, 23462 traderjoes.com
1 Artistic Flooring
Moved from: 3200 Dam Neck Road #110 Virginia Beach, 23453
Moved to: 524 Central Drive #103 Virginia Beach, 23454 757-786-5649 (from website) artisticflooringva.com
2 Pop VB
Moved from: 1625 Donna Drive Virginia Beach, 23451
Moved to: 901 First Colonial Road Virginia Beach, 23454 757-995-3638 (from facebook) popvb.com
1 Lowenthal Outwear Boutique
4097 Virginia Beach Blvd, Virginia Beach, 23452
757-463-6017 (from website) lowenthals.com
A well-known fur boutique in Virginia Beach, is closing after 70 years due to the owners’ retirement.
Closing soon Closed
1 Rockafeller’s Restaurant
308 Mediterranean Ave Virginia Beach, 23451 rockafellers.com
Rockafeller’s seafood restaurant in Virginia Beach has closed after nearly 37 successful years due to the owner’s retirement
Plix Plex, 210 Laskin Road VB. Located in former BOA building.
A Taste of Simplicity: Beloved Owners Return with Tosa’s mood-n-food
By John Gregoire Contributor
After a two year hiatus from restaurant ownership Tom and Lisa Jones opened the doors to Tosa’s mood-n-food this past October. The former owners of Motsie’s Sea Grille and Stoley’s, both former Great Neck staples, created Tosa’s with the vision of a more laid back dining experience.
So, what brought the couple back? “We don’t know any different. There’s a certain energy and passion in it that we really just gravitate to. It absolutely drives us.” Lisa Jones said.
Lisa and Tom have worked in the restaurant industry for nearly forty years, and even met while working together at a restaurant. At Tosa’s, Tom serves as the head chef and controls the kitchen while Lisa is in charge of the front of the restaurant and focuses on serving and bartending. The couple claims division of labor has served them well throughout their time in business together.
In contrast to their previous restaurant Motsie’s which offered bigger and more expensive seafood options, Tosa’s has
cut out the “big ticket” menu items in order to streamline their menu and stay true to their identity. They pride themselves in being able to create a casual dining experience for their customers. “We realized we just wanted to keep it simple… simple is better,” says Lisa. “We don’t care who you are, what you do, how much money you make, or where you come from. We just want you to come in, sit down, and relax.”
A big part of defining this identity has been the thoughtful crafting of their menu. Fan-favorites such as the tuna tacos, fried green beans, and Lisa’s award-winning sweet tea return, along with new creations such as their fried green tomato sandwich. A simplified menu also does not mean a stagnant one, because as Tom explains, “we will make changes. Once we get situated on our menu we can start getting into chalkboard specials and bring in new stuff.”
Additionally, Lisa and Tom have also been able to further distill the dining experience they wish to create by not serving lunch. This gives them more time and resources to create the best dinner experience possible.
The restaurant’s casual atmosphere also allows Tom and Lisa to cater more towards the locals that have supported them over the past 20 years. Lisa explains that while the couple welcomes customers from all over the country, “We are here for the people who are here year-round. I don’t want you to come in June and not be able to get a seat just because I decided to pull in some business from the oceanfront.”
Both Tom and Lisa are thrilled to be back to doing what they love, and are excited to share the relaxed dining experience that they have created.
Lisa and Tom Jones
Local Events
Virginia Beach Jeep Fest 2025
Celebrate Jeep culture at Virginia Beach Jeep Fest! Enjoy beach cruises, obstacle courses, vendors, accessories, and Show & Shine. A thrilling event for Jeep enthusiasts to connect & showcase their rides.
• Fri 11/7 to Sun 11/9
See website for event times
• See website for event pricing
• Virginia Beach Oceanfront
• vabeachjeepfest.com
Bayport Credit Union Holiday Lights at the Beach
Drive on the Boardwalk to see Holiday Lights at the Beach—dancing penguins, Surfing Santa, dazzling displays, and America’s longest curved LED tunnel create unforgettable magic by the Atlantic.
• Fri 11/14 to Wed 12/31
5:30 pm - 9 pm
• $25.00 and up.
Depends on the day of the week
• 2nd Street & Boardwalk
• beacheventsvb.com
Holiday Lights Bike Night
Gather the whole family and pedal down to the Virginia Beach boardwalk and cruise through dazzling displays featuring leaping fish, dancing crabs, cheerful elves, and the country’s longest curved LED Light Tunnel. This magical ride happens only once this season.
• Thu 11/13 5:30 pm - 8 pm
• Free and open to the public
• Virginia Beach
On the boardwalk at 2nd Street
• beacheventsvb.com
All events are subject to change. For the most current info please check event website.
Fear No Ice
Fear No Ice delivers thrilling live ice sculpting with chainsaws and chisels, blending dramatic performance, comedy, and audience interaction into a one-ofa-kind, larger-than-life entertainment experience.
• Sat 11/22 6 pm & 7 pm Two 30-minute shows
• Free
• Virginia Beach Oceanfront
31 Street Park
• beacheventsvb.com
November
11/1
President Adams moves into the White House, 1800
11/2 End of Daylight Savings Time*
11/4 Election Day
11/6 Abraham Lincoln is elected President, 1860
11/10 Marine Corps Birthday
11/11 Veterans Day
11/20 The Nuremberg Trials begin 1945
11/27 Thanksgiving Day
*If you are awake. Set your clock back one hour at 2 am on Sunday 11/2. (fall back)
Regent Center For Performing Arts
For over 30 years, Regent University Theatre has produced shows of the highest caliber. Productions range from Broadway musicals and the classics, to touching dramas and modern comedies. These stories are brought to life by passionate young artists, presenting our audiences with theatre for heart and soul.
• Wedding Belles
December 5-7 & 12-14, 2025
Studio Theatre
Henry V
February 13-15 & 20-22, 2026
Studio Theatre
Hello Dolly!
April 17-19 & 24-26, 2026
Dede Robertson Theatre
• See website for event pricing
• Regent University Theatre & Communication Building 1000 Regent University Drive Virginia Beach, VA 23464
• regent.edu/tickets
December
12/1 Rosa Park sparks a bus boycott, 1955
12/7 Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
12/14 Hanukkah begins at sunset
12/18 Mayflower arrived at Plymouth, 1620
12/21 Winter Solstice - shortest day and longest night of the year
12/22 Hanukkah ends at nightfall
12/25 Christmas Day
12/26 Kwanzaa begins
12/29 Texas enters the union, 1845
Continued from Page 1
The Cavalier Hotel was conceived during the economic boom of the 1920s, a time when Virginia Beach was emerging as a desirable coastal destination. Local leaders, eager to elevate the city’s profile, envisioned a world-class resort that would rival the finest establishments on the East Coast. Designed by the architectural firm Neff & Thompson in the Renaissance Revival style, the seven-story hotel featured a Y-shaped floor plan to maximize ocean views and natural light.
From the beginning, the Cavalier was ahead of its time. Each guest room boasted a private bathroom—a rarity in the 1920s—and included innovative features such as saltwater bathtubs and ice water spigots fed from rooftop ice tanks. The hotel also offered amenities like a doctor’s office, a stockbroker’s room with live ticker tape, and a shopping arcade, making it a selfcontained luxury experience.
The Cavalier quickly became a magnet for the rich and famous. Its guest list reads like a who’s who of 20th-century icons: F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland, Elizabeth Taylor, and Muhammad Ali all stayed there. U.S. Presidents including Herbert Hoover, Harry Truman, John F. Kennedy, and Lyndon Johnson also visited, cementing the hotel’s reputation as a prestigious retreat.
In 1929, the Cavalier Beach Club opened at the foot of the hotel, offering oceanfront entertainment with performances by big band legends like Benny Goodman, Cab Calloway, and Glenn Miller. The club became a cultural hotspot, drawing crowds for
Top Photo: Cavalier Hotel near completion.
Bottom Photo: Cavalier Hotel bedroom floor plan. Continued on page 15
All Images courtesy of Al Chewning
Another hand-colored photo postcard shows the indoor, saltwater pool.
This hand-colored photo postcard, for the 1920s, shows a riding party leaving for a run on the beach.
An aerial view of the Cavalier Hotel prior to WWII.
The Sir Walter Raleigh Lounge.
August 17, 1931, the young man in the coat is Kermit Roosevelt, grandson of President Teddy Roosevelt. He and his friend are posing at the archery range at the Cavalier Hotel.
Individually wrapped wash cloths were provided to the guests of the Cavalier Hotel.
The U.S. military took over the Cavalier during the war, for radar operator training. These two pictures show the Thanksgiving Day menu for those soldiers in 1944.
This leather bound, complimentary, Honeymoon Book, measures 5” x 7”. The rose is hand painted.
Continued from page 12
music, dancing, and seaside revelry.
The hotel’s trajectory shifted during World War II when the U.S. Navy commandeered the property in 1942 for use as a training center. Though returned to its owners in 1945, the interruption disrupted business and marked the beginning of a slow decline. In the following decades, the Cavalier operated intermittently as a private club and hotel, struggling to recapture its former glory. Despite its challenges, the Cavalier remained a beloved landmark. Its architectural grandeur and storied past earned it a place on the National Register of Historic Places in
2014.
In 2013, the Cavalier was sold under court order, and its new owners embarked on a meticulous restoration project. Originally estimated at $50 million, the renovation ballooned to $74 million due to unexpected structural repairs. The hotel reopened in 2018 with 62 rooms and 23 suites—down from the original 135—but with its historic character lovingly preserved.
Today, the Cavalier blends timeless elegance with modern luxury. Guests enjoy fine dining at Becca Restaurant & Garden, craft cocktails in the Hunt Room, and exclusive access to the Cavalier Beach Club. The hotel also features a spa, indoor
pool, and an on-site distillery, offering a contemporary twist on its legacy of indulgence.
The Cavalier Hotel is more than a restored building—it’s a living testament to Virginia Beach’s evolution from a quiet coastal town to a vibrant resort city. Its history mirrors the cultural shifts of the 20th century, from Jazz Age exuberance to wartime resilience and modern
revitalization. For locals and visitors alike, the Cavalier remains a cherished icon, where past and present meet in grand style.
Al Chewning has lived in Virginia Beach his entire life. He is a retired firefighter, historian, author and storyteller. 757-4697978, haunts@mindspring.com historiesandhaunts.com
Birds & Wildlife in Southwest Florida
By Nylia Laney Contributor
As I head off to southwest Florida for vacation, I would like to share some photos of birds and wildlife from the past couple of years that were taken in southwest Florida while I was on vacation. Many of the birds and wildlife photos shared with the article can also be seen in our areas well.
One of my favorite birds to see while I am on vacation is “the” painted bunting. They can be seen in Virginia but are rare. They are most often seen during the winter in our area in coastal areas. The males have bright blue heads, red chests, and green and yellow backs. Their colors are spectacular, making them one of the most colorful songbirds in North America. The female painted bunting is a pale green color as you will see in the photos.
Male painted bunting
Female painted bunting
Another beautiful bird is the roseate spoonbill. They are permanent residents of southwest Florida, but a recent sighting of a pair at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge in August and September brought a lot of attention and excitement for birders. They are rare visitors in our area. The roseate spoonbill has pink feathers and red eyes, with a giant spoonbill. Hopefully, we will see some more sightings in the future.
The wood stork is another bird that I look forward to seeing. The wood stork is a large wading bird with a bald head. It stands more than three feet and has a five-foot wingspan. “It is the only stork breeding in the United States and was placed on the Federal Endangered Species list in 1984. The species was downlisted from endangered to threatened in June 2014, reflecting a successful conservation and recovery effort spanning three decades,” according to the National Park Service. I do see these birds
Continued on page 18
The TIDE WAITS for NO WOMAN
Set at the dawn of the Civil War, the recently widowed Abby Anderson aids fugitives in a perilous yet heartwarming escape effort via the Underground Railroad. Rich in both historical accuracy and emotional depth, the story details the important role that Hampton Roads’ own Fort Monroe played in shaping the developing conflict. Richard K. Perkins is a local author and retired career naval officer.
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often in the Florida Everglades. The snail kite is another bird native to Florida. The snail kite
Roseate spoonbill Wood stork
is endangered primarily due to the loss of its wetland habitat,
which disrupts its ability to find and eat freshwater snails. Snail kites eat almost exclusively freshwater apple snails. They
will sometimes eat other snails, crayfish, turtles, and crabs. Their beak is specifically shaped to get the snail out of its shell, as you
will notice in the photo posted. American alligators are often seen in most areas that I visit in Florida. Alligators can be seen in
Snail Kite
Snail Kite with close up of beak
coastal wetlands as far as coastal North Carolina. Florida has the second largest population of alligators in the country. Louisiana is home to over two million alligators, more than any other state. Lake Okeechobee in Florida is believed to have the largest alligator population in the state and potentially the country, with an estimated 30,000 or more alligators. I find this interesting because I fish in Lake Okeechobee. I see quite a few gators in the Everglades as well.
One of my most interesting finds recently was an Eastern diamondback rattlesnake. I came upon this snake in the Everglades. These snakes are the longest and heaviest venomous snakes in North America. Their average length is 3 to 6 feet but can be as long as 8 feet. Eastern diamondbacks are not naturally found in Virginia. The species has a diamond- shaped pattern along its back and vertical,
cat-like pupils with a large pit between the nostrils and the eye on each side of its face. The eastern diamondback rattlesnake is well known for its rattle and painful, venomous bite, which can be fatal. You will see the rattle in the photo posted as well. The eastern diamondback snake is considered rare and is declining in numbers due to habitat loss and human persecution. It was such an opportunity to find and observe this Diamondback rattlesnake. This was a first for me but hopefully not the last.
I hope you enjoy the photos as much as I have enjoyed taking them. Happy Thanksgiving and I will see you next month.
All Images courtesy of Nylia Laney
Nylia Laney is a native of Virginia Beach and enjoys nature photography. n.laney.nature@gmail.com
Eastern diamondback rattlesnake
Baby alligator (top). Adult alligators (below).
Order Your Thanksgiving Pies from a Local Baker
Order Early! Contact before visiting. Hours vary.
Baker’s Crust Artisan Kitchen 1628 Laskin Road Suite 704, VB 757-422-6703 bakerscrust.com
Be Free Craft Ice Cream Cafe 2336 Elson Green Avenue Suite 107, VB 757-301-2578 befreeicecream.com
Bergey’s Breadbasket 2207 Mt Pleasant Rd, C 757-546-9225 bergeysbreadbasket.com
Chix on the Beach 701 Atlantic Avenue, VB 757-428-2449 instagram.com
Cullipher Farm & Market 772 Princess Anne Road, VB 757-721-7456 cullipherfarm.com
Flour Child Bakery 1716 Pleasure House Road #104, VB 757-464-1455 iloveflourchildbakery.com
Heritage Bake Shoppe 3600 Dam Neck Road, VB 757-716-3772 facebook.com/heritagebakeshoppe
May’s Parlor 3497 Holland Rd. Suite 102 VB 757-278-6090 maysparlor.com
My Vegan Sweet Tooth 3916 Virginia Beach Boulevard, VB 757-279-4789 myvegansweettooth.com
Prosperity Kitchen & Pantry 532 Virginia Beach, Blvd Suite B, VB 757-390-3256 prosperitykitchenva.com
Rigoletto Italian Bakery & Cafe 2181 Upton Drive Suite 414, VB 757-301-2465 rigolettoitalianvb.com
Roela’s Bakery 3300 Holland Road Suite 1116, VB 757-368-2495 facebook.com/pandesalroela
Seasons Best Bakery 3640 Dam Neck Road Suite 114, VB 757-368-0117 facebook.com/seasonsbestgourmet
Sugar Plum Bakery 1353 Laskin Road, VB 757-422-3913 sugarplumbakery.org
The Pink Dinghy 60919th Street, VB 757-937-1010 thepinkdinghy.com
Crumb Pie and Blueberry-Peach Pie in the baking process from Flour Child Bakery Blackberry and Blueberry Pies from Cullipher Farm & Market
Dutch Apple and Classic Pumpkin Pies from Be Free Craft Cafe
The Beautiful Web of Reciprocity
By Adelia Gregoire, Psy.D. Contributor
Some of my favorite moments I have as a Clinical Psychologist are when a client’s insight deeply resonates with me. One
such moment occurred last year when a client, a young mother of three and a poet, introduced me to the phrase, “the beautiful web of reciprocity”. I understood it as a concept that poignantly captured the work that we were doing together, the work of any (good) therapy, and the nature of healthy relationships in general. I viewed it as an expansive concept that extends into all areas of life, underscoring our interconnectedness and clarifying the purpose of an examined
life. When we help others, we benefit, if only from a sense of purpose and well-being. This can explain why acts of service demonstratively reduce symptoms of depression.
A google search of “the beautiful web of reciprocity” generated the following: “The phrase ‘the beautiful web of reciprocity’ refers to the intricate, lifesustaining network of mutual giving and receiving that exists in the natural world and in human communities.” Robin Wall Kimmerer popularized this concept in her book Braiding Sweetgrass. The concept of mutual flourishing promotes harmony. The thought I find myself returning to over and over again is that we are all in this together. My well-being is linked to your well-being and to that of all living creatures. Let’s take good care of each other.
To engage in the “beautiful web of reciprocity” we need to:
• Open our eyes in order to see and attend to others and their needs.
• Open our minds to find ways to contribute and give back to the larger community.
• Open our hearts to find gratitude for all that is right and good in our lives.
During the month of November we remember and celebrate the first Thanksgiving, a compelling example of the beautiful web of reciprocity among people and our planet. Thanksgiving day celebrates a time when the Indigenous and the Settlers
shared in the abundant harvest with gratitude for one another and gratitude for the fruits of the land and the fruits of their hard work. This moment of time was borne from a cooperative spirit and mutual respect. I am grateful that we have the opportunity to celebrate this every year and to remember that we are all tied together in this beautiful web of reciprocity.
Adelia Gregoire, Psy.D. is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with Community Psychological Resources in Norfolk Virginia. agregoire@cprcares.com
Adelia Gregoire
Deer Season has arrived in Virginia
By Nylia Laney Contributor
Just a reminder that deer mating season or the “rut” in Virginia runs from late October through November.
Deer are most active at dawn and dusk when most people are commuting to and from work, especially after daylight savings time ends. Be especially vigilant at these times to avoid a collision. Slow down where you know deer may be such as in wooded areas along the roadway. Do not swerve to avoid a deer, brake gradually and stay in your lane to avoid losing control of your vehicle.
If you see one deer, there may be other deer nearby as they generally travel in groups. It is recommended to use your high beams when able to do so.
VDOT recommends “if you hit a deer, pull off to the shoulder and turn on your hazard lights. Do not exit your vehicle and search for the deer, because it could hurt you.”
If you hit a deer in Virginia Beach, you must report it to the Virginia Beach Police Department if the animal is killed. Call the non-emergency number at 757-385-5000 to report the accident. Take photos of your vehicle and the accident scene for your insurance claim.
Nylia Laney is a native of Virginia Beach and enjoys nature photography. n.laney.nature@gmail.com
The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) noted over 7,400 deer-related crashes in 2024. Insurance industry data for July 2023 to June 2024 shows the Virginia Insurance claim rate is around 1 in 75, which ranks Virginia ninth nationally for deer-vehicle collisions. Source: AI Overview
We Pack & Ship Art & Antiques
Nylia Laney
White-tailed deer seen in the Dam Neck area during Oct 2025
Thanksgiving Gratitude & Reflections
By Anthony Papa Contributor
November is associated with gratitude and reflection. It has me thinking about how fortunate
I am. And how saving and investing extends beyond financial security. It can help create the freedom to focus on what truly matters – time spent with family and friends in pursuit of a deeper, more meaningful life. Here are three things that I am thankful for this holiday season. I stopped at 3 for fear of getting too close to 6 and 7. For those of you with tweens or teenagers, you might know the meaning of those numbers, or lack thereof.
American Exceptionalism
This idea is built around the premise that the United States has a unique role in the world due to our constitutional republic. Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness are more than words. These ideas have helped foster a dynamic, resilient economy that has raised our standard of living and quality of life. Our economy is unique in that it encourages innovative, forward-thinking
individuals to work hard and take risks. The brave among us do not always succeed but when they do the results can be spectacular. There are countless examples – from Henry Ford and the Model T to Steve Jobs and the smart phone. Of course, our country remains a work in progress and continues to face challenges. Despite our challenges, I feel extremely fortunate to be a citizen of this country and the opportunity it has afforded my family.
Longview
I am thankful for time and patience in the financial markets. Consistent investing over extended time periods can allow returns to generate their own growth, turning moderate, steady contributions into meaningful wealth. In finance this idea is called compounding. Albert Einstein called compounding “the eighth wonder of the world.” For instance, investing $6,000 per year over 30 years with a compounded growth rate of 8% generates an ending balance of $680,000! An investment strategy centered on your personal and financial goals can be critical to staying in the market and contributing to this end. I am fortunate to have been an equity investor since 1994 with time and patience serving as the wind in my sails.
Mentorship
I am thankful for the partnership with my father and mentor. Over the course of his 40-year career, he has experienced multiple bear and bull markets and seen investment fads come and go. Crypto currency and private equity and debt are the latest investments du jour. It can be challenging to parse through these non-traditional, or alternative assets, and make sense of how they fit with traditional stocks and bonds. Additionally, the average investor must guard against their own internal bias and avoid wealth destroying mistakes. Many of these mistakes are heavily influenced by the media and emotional responses to black swan events. I am fortunate to have a mentor that taught me investment success is
not dependent on the hot new stock or asset class but more on an ability to control impulses, avoid wealth destroying mistakes and have an investment strategy that is aligned with personal and financial goals.
Wishing all a joyful Thanksgiving filled with peace, gratitude and time with family and friends.
Anthony Papa is a Financial Advisor with Davenport & Company LLC. Anthony can be reached at 757-306-4817 or apapa@investdavenport.com.
Anthony Papa
Windows 10 Get a Reprieve
If you, like me, have a perfectly functional Windows 10 computer that is not eligible to upgrade to Windows 11, and you do not want to give it up just because Microsoft ended security updates for the OS, you are in luck. Although Windows 10 reached its end-of-support on October 14, 2025, meaning it will no longer receive security updates or technical support from Microsoft, Windows 10 users have several options for what to do with their now unsupported hardware.
So, what are these options? You can do nothing and hope for the best, but this is not a wise move as your machine would be vulnerable to online attackers. You can use the program Rufus to create a Windows 11 installation drive and install Windows 11 by circumventing the hardware compatibility requirements, but Microsoft discourages this and states you may have compatibility issues or that your device may not be entitled to receive security
updates. I have used Rufus to successfully upgrade many ineligible Windows 10 PCs to Windows 11, but it’s not certain these Windows 11 computers will be supported in the future. Microsoft could release an update that checks Windows 11 compatibility, and if your PC fails, your Windows 11 activation status could become inactive.
Another option is to re-purpose your old hardware to run either Linux or ChromeOS, but for some people this may not be a viable option. Finally, another option is you can enroll in Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates (ESU) program for Windows 10.
Originally, Microsoft announced users who wanted to continue using Windows 10 could enroll in the ESU program, but it was going to cost $30 per machine. After they were sued and publicly shamed by numerous public interest groups, Microsoft agreed in late summer to offer the ESU program to non-Enterprise users
for free. To take advantage of this program, click on the Start menu, select Settings, then choose Update & Security. You should see an “Enroll Now” link under Windows support ends in October 2025. Click on the link, then click Next on the Enroll in the Extended Security Updates window. You will be asked to sign in to your Microsoft account (if you don’t have one you can create one for free), then select Add Device to enroll in the ESU program. This will provide you with security updates until October 14, 2026. If you don’t see the Enroll Now link, there is a registry hack to enable ESU eligibility.
Windows 10 remains the most popular operating system Microsoft ever released. Ending security updates a mere four years after introducing the hardware-restrictive Windows 11 is unfair, but providing a oneyear extension of security updates to Windows 10 users is the very least Microsoft could do to tame the public uproar. In the end, Windows 10 will still be with us for at least another year, at which time Microsoft will have to address this situation again.
Ray Weing is a Senior Support Computer Specialist and owner of Techs On Wheelz. 757-490-0702
Tips for a Successful Partnership When Creating an Outdoor Living Space
By Danny Wasserman Contributor
appeal of your home, but also raises its property value.
Before you begin your project, take time to clearly define your needs and expectations. What kind of space do you envision? Having a clear idea of what you want will help you communicate more effectively. Let your design consultant know what outdoor features you are interested in. Some people want a new
landscape design with drainage systems, while others are concerned with replacing fences, decks, driveways and patios. Others choose fire features and water features, irrigation systems, or tree removal.
Determine how much you are willing to invest in your outdoor living and landscaping projects. Be realistic about what you can achieve with your budget and prioritize the elements that are most important to you. Find someone who will help you develop a comprehensive plan that will realize your vision and complete it in phases that will work within your budget.
When determining what landscaping contractor to use, evaluate their credentials and experience to ensure they are qualified to handle your project. Check online reviews and ratings on websites like Google, the BBB
QuickBooks?
and Facebook. Visit the company’s website to view their portfolio, company mission and history. This will give you a sense of their style and the quality of their work. Look for projects that are similar to what you have in mind to ensure your visions align. A reputable company should be able to provide references from previous clients.
Compare apples to apples. When reviewing your proposal, make sure you compare similar services and materials. It is important to understand what you are getting for your money. Consider the quality of materials, the company’s reputation, and the overall scope of work. A reputable company will only use the best materials and skilled labor, ensuring you only pay for your projects once.
When finalizing your contract, make sure that the payment terms are clear and fair. It is common to make a deposit upfront, with
the remaining balance paid upon completion of the project. Avoid paying the full amount in advance. The contract will give you a clear understanding of what to expect and will help prevent any misunderstandings down the line. This includes a timeline for the project, and warranties on workmanship and materials. Effective communication and professionalism are key factors for a successful collaboration between client and contractor. They inform the client with regular updates on the project’s progress, periodic site visits to check on work and maintain an open line of communication throughout the duration of the projects.
A successful project is just the beginning of a long-term relationship.
Danny Wasserman is the owner of Dr. Dan’s Landscaping & Architectural Design. drdanslandscaping.com, 757-496-8100
Danny Wasserman
City of Virginia Beach
Contributor
The famous Boston Tea Party political protest took place on December 16, 1773, when American colonists, disguised as Native Americans, dumped 342 chests of tea into Boston Harbor. The protest was against the British government’s Tea Act of 1773, which granted a monopoly to the British East India Company and asserted Parliament’s right to tax the colonies without representation. In response the British Parliament passed a series of punitive laws known as the Intolerable Acts (or Coercive Acts).
In the summer of 1774 the citizens of Princess Anne County drafted a set of resolutions in response to the Intolerable Acts and in support of the actions of the Patriots in Massachusetts. One of the resolves read: Resolved: That the town of Boston and Province of Massachusetts
Boston Tea Party Inspires the Princess Anne County Resolves
Bay, are now suffering in the common cause of America, as the said Acts would lay a foundation for the utter destruction of the rights and liberties of the subjects of British America.
The twelve resolves summarized the concerns of Princess Anne County citizens that their representatives would present to the First Virginia Convention at
Raleigh Tavern. They emphasized the protection of rights and liberties and advocated for boycotts and other measures to oppose oppressive British policies. The citizens sought to express their sentiments on the pressing issues, to assert their rights, and to outline the steps they would take to resist British infringement on those rights. The creation of these county-level resolves
was a common practice across Virginia at the time, demonstrating widespread sentiment against British colonial policies and influencing the broader movement toward the American Revolution.
It is important to note that the resolves acknowledged loyalty to the King and the British legal system but distinguished between acts of government legitimately exercised by the Crown and unconstitutional acts by Parliament. A core principle was the belief that taxation without representation was a violation of the fundamental liberties of British subjects.
The resolves serve as a valuable historical record, offering insight into the political opinions and concerns of the colonists during the lead-up to the American War for Independence. They highlight the active participation of local communities, such as Princess Anne County, in the growing movement to defend colonial liberties against what they viewed as unconstitutional British actions.
Nathaniel Currier, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
The destruction of tea at Boston Harbor
Contributor
For Princess Anne County residents, the events in Virginia that helped propel the eventual downfall of Royal Governor John Murray, Lord Dunmore, seemed to happen far away in the colonial capital of Williamsburg. The removal of gunpowder from a magazine for “safekeeping” on board the HMS Magdalen in the James River on April 20, 1775, was the tipping point in Dunmore’s reign. Facing significant public backlash, Dunmore’s promise to pay for the powder resulted in only a short reprieve in the growing unrest. While not the only contributing factor toward Dunmore’s growing unpopularity, it was this incident that banded together the movement toward independence in Virginia, forcing Dunmore to take even more drastic measures to try and maintain control.
By early June, Dunmore would be forced out of Williamsburg and on
Lord Dunmore’s “Floating City” Outside Norfolk
to the safety of the HMS Fowey. Dunmore attempted to govern Virginia afloat, under the protection of the Royal Navy, and would initiate events that would bring the growing conflict to Princess Anne County.
On the Elizabeth River, off Norfolk, Dunmore assembled an impressive flotilla [essentially a “floating city”]
of small naval vessels, merchant ships armed for Dunmore’s purposes, and others laden with supplies. On board were a growing number of Dunmore supporters and Loyalists who feared for their safety ashore. Norfolk was a key city in Virginia with a bustling port and large merchant community. Controlling
Norfolk was the equivalent of controlling the mercantile economy of Virginia. The presence of Dunmore’s flotilla had the effect of “blockading” Kemp’s Landing. This severely impacted the economy of Princess Anne County, stopping all imports and exports.
Dunmore seized cargo and vessels belonging to known patriots, quartered his troops ashore in commandeered homes, and even hid runaway slaves. Such activity was reported in the Virginia Gazette, a newspaper published by John Holt in Norfolk. Holt’s publication was not at all flattering to Dunmore and his naval commanders. On September 30, Dunmore sent a contingent of 15 armed men ashore to seize Holt’s press. This would be the first of many raids across the region to counter the spreading Patriot narrative.
Both articles were written by members of the Virginia Beach VA250 Committee as part of its Countdown to 250 Series.
Dunmore flees the Governor’s Palace for a British warship, June 1775
Nearby Places to Explore: The Virginia Musical Museum and Virginia Music Hall of Fame
By Buddy Parker Contributor
Ella Fitzgerald and Patsy Cline’s performing dresses and Wayne Newton’s 1978 roadster he purchased from Marvin Gaye’s estate are just a few of the items you will find in the Virginia Music Hall of Fame. Many contemporary Virginia-born music artists have contributed memorabilia to the hall of fame including Bruce Hornsby, Jason Mraz, the Statler brothers. Jimmy Fortune, Phil Vassar, Ricky Van Shelton, and others. The hall of fame contains 34 native Virginians that have been chosen based on their significant contributions to the musical recording and entertainment business.
When first entering the museum, you will encounter amusement park items including the Wurlitzer band organ used for the music for the first carousel on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The museum also features several Nickelodeons, including one of the last 20 remaining “Encore” self-playing banjos. A special and very rare piece is our French writing desk with a Plerodienique music box made into the top. Only 12 of these music boxes have
1978 Clenet Roadster once owned by Marvin Gaye and Wayne Newton
been found worldwide and the history of these rare items is being documented in a book being written in France. The piano gallery in the museum features displays that show the evolution of the piano starting with a hammer dulcimer up to the piano designs still used today. This historical collection features a rare 1770 Joshua Shudi harpsichord, one of only
two known to still exist today.
The Williamsburg based museum and hall of fame opened to the public in 2013. The museum contains a 60-plus year collection of memorabilia and rare musical antiquities that were donated to the 501C non-profit by Jesse “Buddy” and Peggy Parker, owners of Parker Piano Outlet.
The two level, nine room
All images courtesy of Buddy Parker
museum and hall of fame provides visitors with a unique opportunity to view rare musical heritage and appreciate the rich contributions made by some of Virginia’s best-known musical artists. Jessie “Buddy” Parker is the owner of Parker Piano Outlet in Williamsburg.
Virginia Musical Museum and Virginia Music Hall of Fame
6316 Richmond Road Williamsburg, VA 23188
757-303-5907
virginiamusicalmuseum.com
Open Monday - Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM
• Guided Tours offered on Wednesday & Fridays on a walk-in basis. Last tour begins at 4 PM.
• Private Group Tours available upon request.
• Elevator service, gift store Drive Time from Town Center, Virginia Beach is One Hour
Touch Mobile Day Spa is “A Touch of Heaven on the go” in spite of rain, sleet, or snow. We take pride in delivering professional luxury spa services anywhere you are. We’ve integrated high standards and quality with strong morals and values to serve our customers. We deliver enrichment of the mind, body and spirit for everyone, from the traveling women or man to the stay-athome mom deserving some rest and relaxation.
Virginia Musical Museum & Virginia Music Hall of Fame
Variety of antique musical instruments
Circus & Amusement Park Music
Do You Know: Thanksgiving Fun Facts
The first Thanksgiving lasted three days and was celebrated in 1621 by the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people. It featured venison, seafood, and fowl—not turkey.
George Washington issued the first national Thanksgiving proclamation in 1789, encouraging Americans to give thanks for the new Constitution.
Abraham Lincoln made Thanksgiving a national holiday in 1863, during the Civil War, to foster unity.
The average American eats about 4,500 calories on Thanksgiving Day, thanks to generous servings of turkey, stuffing, pie, and more.
TV dinners were invented because of Thanksgiving leftovers—Swanson had 260 tons of extra turkey in 1953 and packaged it with sides to create the first frozen meal.
Thanksgiving became fixed on the fourth Thursday of November in 1941, thanks to a law passed by Congress.
Siebert Realty o ers hundreds of fully-furnished beach home and condo vacation rentals, that come fully equipped with all the comforts of home. All the amenities you need under one roof!
Source: MS Copilot
Tracing Sudoku’s Global Puzzle Journey
Origins- 18th centuryThe concept stems from Latin Squares, developed by mathematician Leonhard Euler, where numbers appear only once per row and column.
Early Puzzle Forms - 1890s: French newspapers published number puzzles similar to Sudoku, but without the 3×3 subgrid rule.
Birth of Modern Sudoku - 1979: American puzzle designer Howard Garns created the modern version, called Number Place, published by Dell puzzle magazines.
Japanese Popularization - 1984: Japanese publisher Nikoli introduced the puzzle as Sudoku, meaning “single number.” They refined the rules to ensure unique solutions.
Global Boom - 2004 onward: Sudoku gained worldwide popularity after appearing in British newspapers, followed by a surge in books, apps, and websites.
Sudoku remains a beloved logic puzzle, blending simplicity with challenge.
Source: Copilot
“Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.” Abraham Lincoln
Old Dominion University Basketball
2/24
All games are subject to change. For the most current info please check school website.
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