Halloween Tour of Virginia Beach
By Al Chewning
Author/ Historian/ Storyteller
I have written five books about Virginia and Virginia Beach history. I enjoy the fact that Haunted Virginia Beach outsells all the others. Various polls show that about fifty per-cent of Americans believe in ghosts, spirits and the ability to communicate with the
dead. Here is a list of some locations that are purported to be haunted.
Probably the most well-known is the Cavalier Hotel, built in 1927. Two years later, Adolph
Coors leapt to his death from the sixth floor. Since then, people have reported seeing his ghost in various spots in and around the building. There are also stories about the spirit of a WWII Naval officer who wandered the floors waiting for his wife to join him. He wasn’t seen again after his wife eventually died. In addition, a former manager of the hotel, and a young bride, both dead from suicides, have made their presences known to many.
The Ferry Plantation house is considered to be the most haunted place in the city. Built of brick in 1735, the building served as the third courthouse of
Image courtesy of Al Chewning
Old Coast Guard Station, Virginia Beach
Al Chewning
Ramps & Rails
Ella’s Bubbles Dealer
Tapping into that adventurous spirit -- at any age.
By Karen Beardslee Kwasny Columnist
Karen Kwasny
Our middle child is quite the world traveler. He works for an airline and rarely misses a chance to snag cheap seats to unknown destinations. His fiancée and two young daughters are almost always with him, exploring the world together. A few months ago, he sent us pictures of them in London, and shortly after, he called to invite us to Spain for their wedding celebration. I love their adventurous spirits. They remind me of myself when I was their age – and of the importance of having adventures throughout life.
I was in college when I had my first real adventure. It wasn’t a deliberate undertaking, however. It was a matter of opportunity. The campus had emptied for spring break, and since I had no plans, I said yes to a friend’s invitation to Fort Lauderdale. We had $100 between us, my dad’s Mobile credit card for gas, and my used Datsun 200SX. We took off for sights unseen.
I taught my friend to drive a stick shift on the way from Maryland to Florida, and she got the only speeding ticket of our trip because she didn’t know how to downshift
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to meet the speed limit. We slept in the car at a rest area, snuck into a campground for showers, ate our fill at a pizza buffet each day, and went to the movies at night for the air conditioning. Little of this was smart, I know, and maybe the world was different back then. But we had a blast. Our only mishap was spending too many hours in the Florida sun, which caused severe sun poisoning for my friend when we returned to campus. I remember sitting on the roof of our dorm a few nights after we came back, thinking about what a great time we had.
I traveled for work and pleasure in the years that followed, seeing parts of the world I had only imagined. Then family life took over, and I became, well, a bit of a homebody. My carefully curated space was a comfort zone, and I preferred it to a hotel room any
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Contributors
Al Chewning Karen Kwasney
Dr. Adelia Gregoire Nylia Laney
Kim Reed Vicki Bohannon
Anthony Papa Natalie Torrez
Danny Wasserman
Melanie Harris
Dr. Melissa McKendry
day. That’s probably why, at first, the idea of Spain caused me a bit of agita.
In all my wanderings, I had never traveled overseas. I’m not a fan of flying across large bodies of water, and beyond needing passports, I had no idea what European travel involved. Neither did my husband, Tom, who has traveled much less than I have. Add to that the fact that our son flies by the seat of his pants no matter what the plan is, and I feared we might have a recipe for travel disaster.
Then, I got a call from our youngest. Out of the blue, he was on his way to New York for the Ryder Cup Series, driving a passenger bus. I wondered, where in the world has my adventurous spirit gone? What happened to the girl ready to explore places near and far? I wanted her to
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
seize the moment. So, I ordered the mother-of-the-groom dress in the length and color my son requested, got our passports ready, and packed the suitcases.
The chance for a new experience has made Tom and me think about how we want to spend our retirement years. We don’t have a bucket list of places to visit, but we’re determined to stay open to whatever comes our way. Whether that’s traveling across the country or just across the state, we’ll follow the urge to explore. We’ve adopted our sons’ ways of thinking -- or Seals & Crofts’— We may never pass this way again. Let’s go.
Karen Beardslee Kwasny is a former Virginia Beach Planning Commissioner and college professor. leejogger@gmail.com
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Local Events
47th Annual Suffolk Peanut Fest
Famous for its enjoyable family events, featuring live music, carnival rides, various contests and competitions, a demolition derby, a peanut cup race, a motorcycle rally, fireworks, and plenty more. Mix all these fantastic activities with both local and national entertainment, and you have an entire weekend packed with fun.
• Thu 10/9 4 pm - 10 pm
Fri 10/10 10 am - 10 pm
Sat 10/11 10 am - 10 pm
Sun 10/12 10 am - 7 pm
• Thursday - Free admission for everyone
Gen Admin. $10 (Fri, Sat & Sun)
Three-Day Pass $20
Children 12 & under free, Free Parking
• Suffolk Executive Airport 1410 Airport Road, Suffolk
• suffolkpeanutfest.com
Virginia MOCA Boardwalk Art Show - 69th Annual
Presented by Atlantic Union Bank, this is a prestigious open-air art event that takes place every year along the boardwalk where you can view and purchase original fine art & contemporary craft from juried artists.
• Fri 10/10 10 am - 6:00 pm Sat 10/11 10 am - 5 pm
Sun 10/12 10 am - 4 pm
• Free & Open to the Public See website for VIP options
• 24th - 35th Street, Boardwalk Virginia Beach Oceanfront
• virginiamoca.org
All events are subject to change. For the most current info please check event website.
37th Annual Fall Town Point Virginia Wine Festival
The Fall Town Point Virginia Wine Festival features over 25 of the state’s premier wineries presenting more than 200 exceptional wines. Featuring food and retail vendors along with live music. Sat 10/18 Jesse Chong & Sun 10/19 Lewis McGehee.
• Sat 10/18 & Sun 10/19 11 am - 6 pm
• See website for admission fee info
• Town Point Park 113 Waterside Drive, Downtown Norfolk Waterfront
• festevents.org
Executive Leadership SeriesLeading with Excellence
This dynamic panel discussion will explore what it means to lead—and succeed—with excellence in today’s business world. The event will feature insights, strategies, and insider tips from renowned executive leaders across Hampton Roads.
LEADERSHIP PANEL
Bob Aston, CEO, Towne Bank
Michael C. Creedon, Jr., CEO, Dollar Tree
Edith White, CEO, Hampton Roads Community Action Program
Dennis Matheis, CEO of Sentara
Gordon Robertson, CEO of CBN and Chancellor, Regent University
Hon. Robert MacDonald, Judge, Chesapeake Circuit Court & panel moderator
• Tue 11/18 12 pm
• Register at Regent.edu/ELS
• Founder’s Inn
5641 Indian River Road Virginia Beach, VA 23464
October
10/1 Yom Kippur
10/1 Walt Disney World opened, 1971
10/10 US Naval Academy opens, 1845
10/13 Columbus / Indigenous Peoples’ Day
10/13 US Navy is established, 1775
10/19 British forces surrendered to American & French forces at Yorktown, ending the Revolutionary War, 1781
10/24 United Nations is created, 1945
10/31 Halloween
November
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 Hanukkah
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)
Fall Family Fun with Corn Mazes, Farm Markets, Hay Rides, Petting Zoos and Pumpkin Patches
Chesapeake Virginia Beach
B & L Farm Market 1065 First Colonial Rd
Cindy’s Produce 2385 Harpers Road
Cullipher Farm 772 Princess Anne Road
Flanagan Farm 1707 Princess Anne Road
Henley Farms 3484 Charity Neck Road
Hunt Club Farm 2388 London Bridge Road
Bergey’s Barnyard 2207 Mt Pleasant Road
Great Bridge Pumpkin Patch 125 Peaceful Road
Hickory Ridge Farm 2928 S Battlefield Blvd
Historic Greenbrier Farms 225 Sign Pine Road
Lilley Farms 2800 Tyre Neck Road
Mount Pleasant Farms 2201 Mount Pleasant Road
Contact Info
757-481-6519 facebook.com/bandlfarmmarket
757-427-2346 facebook.com
757-721-7456 cullipherfarm.com
757-426-5585 flanagan-farm.com
757-426-7501 facebook.com
757-427-9520 huntclubfarm.com
757-403-0291 bergeysbarnyard.com
757-971-3413 greatbridgepumpkinpatch.com
757-560-6763 jrpx28.wixsite.com/hickoryridgefarm
757-421-2141 historicgreenbrierfarms.com
757-435-2085 lilleyfarmsva.com
757-482-0739 mountpleasantfarms.com
3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 Contact each location for
3 3 3 3 3
Images of children and animals courtesy of Hunt Club Farm. Image of corn maze and pumpkins courtesy of Cullipher Farm.
Nature is All Around Us
By Nylia Laney Contributor
Nature may be closer than you think. Nature can be anywhere, such as in your backyard, at a park, in the wilderness, local gardens, oceans, and deserts, just about any place you look. It includes both living organisms like plants and animals, and non-living components like water, land and the atmosphere.
Depending on what you like in nature is where you need to look. I prefer living organisms such as flowers, plants, birds, fish and wildlife. Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Stumpy Lake, hiking trails and of course my own backyard are my favorite places to search for nature. On a recent weekend in September, I went searching for nature at the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. There is a lot of nature at the refuge. This weekend was no exception. There was a variety of
Prothonotary Warbler
Eastern Kingbird
House Finch
plants, birds and wildlife to see. I prefer to walk the Reese F Lukei, Jr. Raptor Trail, the Kuralt trail and the Sunset Point Overlook Loop.
On this recent weekend I spotted three migrating birds, a Prothonotary warbler, an Eastern Kingbird and a yellow warbler.
I saw several resident birds as well, a beautiful house finch and a mockingbird among them. A cottontail rabbit stayed hidden behind some bushes. There were many butterflies out that day as well. A common wood nymph was resting on a wood branch on the ground and a skipper sipped nectar from a blue mist
All Images courtesy of Nylia Laney
Grasshopper
Yellow Garden Spider
Persimmons Fruit
Paper Wasps Nest (below)
Continued from Page 11
flower. There were dragonflies, grasshoppers, spiders and many types of flowers still blooming. The persimmon trees had ripening fruit. The Virginia creeper had an abundance of berries ready for the birds to eat. The Virginia creeper berries are an important winter food source for a variety of birds. The frogs jumped in the water as I walked by. I saw three different species of snakes, and they were well hidden. You could walk right past them and miss them as many people did. There was a ribbon snake along a tree branch, a brown water snake and I saw several cottonmouths. Cottonmouths are the only venomous snake species found at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. On my way from Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, I saw a belted Kingfisher and some mallard ducks on the North Landing River. It was a good day. Back Bay Wildlife Refuge offers a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, beach combing, birding and wildlife watching.
757-404-2226
michellewarden@me.com
Depending on the time of year you may observe different types of wildlife and birds. In the fall you may see migrating birds,
frogs, turtles, snakes, rabbits and a variety of insects and spiders. In the spring you may see the return of the migrating birds along
with other wildlife, reptiles and amphibians. Winter is a great time to see a variety of ducks and water birds along with a variety of
Great Blue Heron
All Images courtesy of Nylia Laney
Warden
wildlife such as bobcats, coyotes, raccoons, opossums and deer. Summer is a great time to see ospreys, songbirds, and egrets, as well as other wildlife. You may also see loggerhead sea turtles and dolphins swimming on the beach side of the refuge.
Back Bay wildlife Refuge has so much to offer. For information on hours, trails, tours, activities and entrance fees, go to https://www. fws.gov/refuge/back-bay/visit-us
Some of my favorite non-living components of nature are a beautiful sunset, the beauty of snowflakes as they fall from the sky and a dramatic thunder and lightning storm on a lazy afternoon. Sunsets are a powerful
display of nature’s beauty. For me it provides a sense of serenity, peace and tranquility. It is a special way to end my day. Studies have shown that connecting with nature can have a positive impact on your physical and mental health. I love the popular quote by Vincent van Gogh, “If you truly love Nature, you will find beauty everywhere.” This quote is what I live by.
Nylia Laney is a native of Virginia Beach and enjoys nature photography. n.laney.nature@gmail.com
JOHN’S BARBER SHOP
HAIRCUTS $18
BRIDGE SHOPPING CENTER 315 N. GREAT NECK RD, SUITE 132 VIRGINIA BEACH, VA 23454 • PH: (757) 463-9877
VA BEACH HOME REPAIR
Great Egret Sunset and Mallard Ducks at North Landing River
Continued from Page 1
Princess Anne County. It was destroyed by fire and rebuilt in the 1860s. In the process of restoring the house in1997, many paranormal events were recorded. A newly released book, Haunted Ferry Plantation, by Kristen Ellis, mentions more than a dozen ethereal denizens “living” in the house.
The Surf and Rescue Museum, built in 1903 and located at the end of 24th street, has two spirits. Surfman John Sparrow, long dead, appears in the lookout tower whenever the weather is bad. The other spirit is Rueben Redwine, whose presence is felt, not seen. Rueben was killed instantly in 1942, when his ship struck a German underwater just mine
a few miles off our beach. His body was brought into the station and ultimately taken to Norfolk for processing. It seems his spirit remains, franticly searching for the cause of his death. This “energy” has been felt by many people, working or visiting the museum.
Tautog’s Restaurant is just one block away from the museum. Several members of the staff there have acknowledged sensing the presence of someone unseen being close by. They all agree that it’s not threatening, but most likely the spirit of the woman who lived most of her life in the house that is now the restaurant. Other restaurants that have reported similar occurrences, and even sightings, are Abbey Roads, Murphy’s Irish Pub and the Icehouse.
Stories from Fort Story mention a ghostly figure that
Ferry Plantation House, 2005
WOOD FIRED PIZZA
WINE CIDER
is seen near a certain copse of trees and fades away when approached. Some describe it looking like a colonial soldier. Others say it looks like a WWII POW, wearing the pajamas-like uniform worn at that time. In addition, a previous commanding officer of the facility announced to a
newspaper reporter that his quarters, the former Federal weather station, were indeed haunted.
Nearby, at the end 64th Street, several runners, bikers, and even homeowners have admitted to seeing the pale white image of a young girl, wearing a formal gown,
peeking out from behind a tree or in through a window. In the late 1960s, a young girl was killed in a car accident in that area. She and her boyfriend had left their school’s Valantine’s Day Dance and were on their way to the State Park. It was a well-known lovers’ lane due to the isolation and the darkness.
That night there was ice on the unpaved road. The vehicle skidded into a tree, and the girl was killed. Paranormal investigators have recorded many unexplained sounds and photographs.
Continued on page 16
Old Coast Guard Station, 1977. Abandoned from 1969 to 1981.
Tautog’s Restaurant at 205 23rd Street
There is another story about the ghost of a young woman who died on in a car accident. This one on Elbow Road. Driving alone at night, her car went off the road into the swamp, where she died. Her body was not found until three days after the accident. The closest house to
the accident scene was about a mile away. Late one night the couple that lived there were awakened by knocking on their front door. They opened it to see a young woman, soaking wet, standing there. She explained that she had been in an accident and led the husband to the spot where her car had left the road.
Ghosts VirginiaBeach
Book
ghost walk tour along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk with your “Scarteller” and author of “Haunted Virginia Beach”, Al Chewing. As a Virginia Beach native and retired firefighter, Al knows where the bodies are buried, so to speak.
With his flashlight, he went into the darkened woods and saw a car, partially underwater. When he came back out onto the road, the girl was gone. The next day the police recovered the car and inside, found a female body fitting the description provided by the couple at the house.
These are just a few of the
stories about local hauntings. There are many more. Enough to write a book about, which I did. And I am currently collecting additional stories for a second book. If you know one, I’d love to hear about it. Please email me at HistoriesAndHaunts@ mindspring.com.
Undated Postcard (est. 1920) U.S Weather Bureau Building at Cape Henry.
U.S. Weather Building at Cape Henry. Now quarters for Commanding Officer of Fort Story.
Haunted trail First Landing Park near 64th Street
All images courtesy of Al Chewning unless noted otherwise.
Al Chewning has lived in Virginia Beach his entire life. He is a retired firefighter, historian, author and storyteller. 757-469-7978, haunts@ mindspring.com historiesandhaunts.com
The 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.
The Thrill of Fear and Its Downside
By Adelia Gregoire, Psy.D. Contributor
into movie theaters. In small doses, fear can be exhilarating and fun. We pay to be scared! But what happens when fear is not a curated experience? When it is random, overwhelming and intrusive?
Fear is a normal reaction to a perceived danger. It activates the sympathetic nervous system which prepares us physically to respond to a threat. It can be amusing and thrilling when we are activated for a short period
of time and can readily return to our baseline functioning once we perceive that we are not in danger. For many, however, fear can be indiscriminate and unpredictable. It is no longer a reliable alarm system for danger but a cause for alarm itself. At this point, a source is not needed to trigger fear, leading to a debilitating fear cycle.
Panic attacks are sudden, unprovoked episodes of intense fear that typically last a few minutes with accompanying physical symptoms such as rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, chest pains, nausea, dizziness and shakiness. As many as a third of the population has experienced a panic attack, the symptoms of which are often mistaken for a heart attack.
The good news is that despite the fact that panic attacks feel uncontrollable, they are very much within our ability to
control. I have developed a three step model that I give to my clients to help them manage panic attacks:
1. The first step, counterintuitively, is nonresistance. Keep in mind that anxiety, like any other emotion, unfolds as a wave. It will build, crest, and come down on the other side. When you resist the rising fear inside by telling yourself “This is terrible and can’t happen right now”, the wave will build higher and last longer. If, on the other hand, you tell yourself “I know what this is and I am going to ride this wave”, the fear will dissipate more quickly.
2. The second step involves both physiological and cognitive interventions. Deep breathing and soothing touch such as gently rubbing one palm over the other will activate the parasympathetic nervous system which calms and resets us. Cognitively, it is important to reset the false narrative that is playing in your head. Recognize that although your brain perceives danger and has released cortisol and adrenaline for you to fight or flee, you are, in fact, in no danger. Something terrible is not about to happen. You are not dying. It’s ok if people notice that you are
3. Finally, work to shift your focus from inward to outward. When we are anxious we become very consumed with our physical symptoms, our emotional discomfort and our fear-driven thoughts. (This is why nervous public speakers are advised to imagine their audience in their underwear!). Turn on some music. Go for a walk and observe your environment. Identify what you hear, see and smell. Call someone. Initiate a conversation. Please don’t skip the first two steps before doing this. That would be nothing more than distraction and not as effective. The first time you try this, you will need to cycle through the steps a few times, and that is perfectly fine. It will get you to where you need to be. For those of you who love this time of year, enjoy the thrill of the fear. For the rest of you, know that you are not alone and that fear does not have to get the best of you!
Adelia Gregoire, Psy.D.
Adelia Gregoire
Who’s Eligible for a Refund From Amazon?
You might have heard that, last week, Amazon agreed to pay $2.5 billion to settle the FTC’s charges that it enrolled millions of people in Prime subscriptions without their consent – and then made it hard for those unwilling Prime subscribers to cancel. Since $1.5 billion of that amount goes back to consumers, you might be wondering: who gets it? How? And what do I need to do?
Last question, first: right now, do nothing. The refunds are automatic and will go out by December 25, 2025.
Now for the answers to those other questions. If you meet all three of these requirements, you may be eligible for an automatic refund of your Prime membership fees, up to $51:
• You’re a US-based Amazon Prime customer.
• You signed up for a Prime membership between June
23, 2019 and June 23, 2025 through one of the enrollment flows the FTC challenged in its case OR you unsuccessfully tried to cancel your Amazon Prime membership between those same dates.
• You used less than three Prime benefits, such as watching a Prime video or listening to Amazon Music, in any 12-month period after you enrolled in Prime.
One more important thing. Scammers often use the names of well-known companies and big FTC settlements to contact people to “help” with your account or refund. How do you know it’s a scam? Because the FTC will never contact you about this refund. And no one from the FTC or Amazon will ask you for money to get a refund. And only scammers say they can get you special
access or a guaranteed refund. If you get an unexpected call, text, or email from someone who claims to be the FTC or Amazon, it’s probably a scam. Tell the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc. gov. And learn more about these refunds at ftc.gov/Amazon.
Used with permission from FTC
Fall Landscaping and Outdoor Living Tips
By Danny Wasserman Contributor
Wasserman
As summer fades and the crispness of fall fills the air, Virginia Beach homeowners are presented with the perfect opportunity to refresh their outdoor areas. In addition to being a beautiful time of year, fall is the best time of year to landscape and get outdoor living spaces ready for the upcoming chilly months, while reflecting the essence of autumn that Virginia Beach residents enjoy.
Fall is the ideal time to aerate and overseed your lawn in Virginia Beach. By loosening compacted soil, aeration allows nutrient and water absorption. Pair this with a grass seed to ensure a lush, green lawn in the spring. Leaf management is important. Excessive leaf buildup can suffocate grass and other plants. Rake or mulch leaves regularly to protect your lawn’s health. Start a composting area and take advantage of the organic materials the fall offers by collecting leaves, grass clippings, and kitchen scraps. Compost enriches soil fertility and reduces waste, making it a win-win for your landscaping efforts.
As autumn brings heavier rainfall, cooler temperatures and less
hours of sunlight, yard drainage issues can become particularly troublesome. This can lead to pooling water and even flooding in low-lying areas of your property. Poor drainage may result in soggy lawns, damaged landscaping, and erosion problems that persist into winter. Regular assessment and maintenance keep your yard healthy throughout the season. The installation of a dry well or French drain system can prevent costly damage to your home.
As temperatures drop, a fire pit becomes the gathering spot, especially when entertaining. You can install a permanent stone fire pit or select a portable one. Surround it with comfortable seating and plush blankets to create an area that conveys warmth and relaxation.
Fall evenings can be magical with the right lighting. String lights draped across patios, lanterns lining walkways, and spotlights highlighting trees or outdoor features can add both ambiance and safety.
Fall is a great time to assess your patio furniture and even catch some end of season sales. Look for weather-resistant materials like teak, aluminum, or resin wicker, and include autumn inspired throws and cushions in warm tones to reflect the season’s colors.
Extend the use of outdoor spaces by adding patio heaters. Various styles, including tabletop, wallmounted, or standing models, bring comfort on chilly evenings.
Enhance the charm of your outdoor living spaces with seasonal décor. Pumpkins, gourds, and corn stalks can bring a rustic vibe, while potted chrysanthemums and wreaths add color to porches and patios.
If you have water features such as fountains, waterfalls or koi ponds, now is the time to winterize them. Clean out debris, lower water levels, and cover them to prevent freezing damage.
As temperatures cool and rainfall increases, you may need to adjust your irrigation system. Ensure that sprinkler heads are functioning properly and reduce the frequency of watering.
Virginia Beach’s mild fall weather is perfect for growing cool-season vegetables like spinach, kale, and broccoli. Raised garden beds make it easier to manage crops and protect them from pests.
Fall is the time to plant springflowering bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. Choose
well-draining soil and sunny spots to promote a lively display for spring.
Planting trees and shrubs in the fall gives their roots time to establish before the hotter summer months. Consider species like dogwoods, Japanese maples, and crape myrtles for their fall foliage and year-round appeal.
Set up bird feeders to support local birds as natural food sources decline. Choose seed mixes that attract a variety of species. Always include a fresh supply of water with a birdbath.
Fall in Virginia Beach is the perfect time to reflect on your landscape and outdoor living areas. With thoughtful planting, seasonal upkeep, and cozy outdoor settings, you can create welcoming spaces.
Danny Wasserman is the owner of Dr. Dan’s Landscaping & Architectural Design. drdanslandscaping.com, 757-496-8100
Danny
Massage Therapy. Not Just a Nice Way to Relax.
By Natalie Torrez, CMT Contributor
Natalie Torrez
Massage therapy is not just a nice way to relax but a valuable tool in feeling better and functioning better. Let’s start with
the basics, what is massage therapy? Massage therapy is the manual manipulation of soft tissue. This action can help relieve muscular tension like trigger points: aka knots and loosen up tight bands of muscles caused from overuse and stress. Our muscular system is attached to our skeletal system so in effect when our muscles are tight it can throw off your skeletal alignment causing minor discomfort, chronic pain, pinched nerves,
and can even contribute to or worsen the possibility of having slipped discs. Through massage you can help improve your circulation, reduce stress, and aid in pain relief. Sometimes when we are stressed, we tend to manifest our stress through a physical activity like clenching our jaws, raising our shoulders, or overextending our necks and hunching backs. Whichever way you show your stress, massage therapy is a sure way to help. Not only does it benefit you physically but also mentally. When getting a massage your body releases endorphins; serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin, which help promote relaxation and reduces stress hormones like cortisol and adrenalin improving your overall mood. When you feel better, you think better, and you sleep better. Getting a massage once a month
can help you support a healthier and happier life. Although massage therapy definitely isn’t a cure all, it is a great choice to add to your self-care and wellness regime. You also want to be sure to drink plenty of water, eat a well-balanced diet, exercise, and stretch. You do not want to just do one thing. Like an experienced mechanic you want to have a multitude
of tools so you can have the right tool for the right job. Try incorporating these things into your wellness plan to see what a difference they can make and how they can help your life.
Natalie Torrez is a certified massage therapist and owner of The Mini Day Spa. She can be reached at theminidayspa0125@gmail.com and 757-478-9866
Navigating Medicare Open Enrollment Season
By Anthony Papa Contributor
optimism you had to start the college football season has likely evaporated. And of course, Medicare Open Enrollment Period starts on October 15th and runs through December 7th. For those currently on Medicare, this is an opportunity to switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage (or vice versa) or change your Part D prescription plan.
At a minimum, take the time to review your current Medicare plan to ensure your doctor, specialists and prescriptions are covered in 2026. The document that outlines annual changes to Medicare plans is the Annual Notice of Change (ANOC). The ANOC is typically mailed or emailed by the end of September.
If insured through Original Medicare with a Medigap policy, be circumspect when contemplating a switch to Medicare Advantage. Original Medicare is run by the federal government and includes Medicare Part A (in-patient hospital care) and Part B (Doctor
and other healthcare provider services). Prescription drug coverage is available through Medicare Part D, which is funded by the federal government but managed by private companies. Medigap is supplemental insurance sold by private companies that helps fill coverage “gaps” in Original Medicare. There is no annual out-of-pocket maximum for Original Medicare, but Medigap Plans K and L do have an annual out-of-pocket maximum to cap your annual costs.
Medicare Advantage is private health insurance approved by the federal government covering Part A, B and D services. Some Medicare Advantage plans will also include dental, vision and hearing or benefits like free gym membership, which Original Medicare does not typically cover.
You may reduce costs and simplify your insurance coverage by switching to Medicare Advantage, but if you try to switch back to Original Medicare there is no guarantee Medigap insurance will be available. During the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) or Special Enrollment Period (SEP), there is no medical underwriting and insurance companies cannot deny you Medigap coverage. If you apply for Medigap outside of your IEP or SEP, insurance companies may review your health history and deny you coverage or charge you a higher premium. There are a handful of circumstances that allow for a return to Original Medicare without Medigap
underwriting, the most common being a switch back to Original Medicare and your old Medigap policy within a 12-month trial period.
If you are planning to move from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage, do your due diligence to ensure your current doctors and specialists are covered and you have access to an adequate prescription drug plan. Also, switching to Medicare Advantage may be more restrictive. Many Medicare Advantage plans require prior authorization for procedures or tests and referrals to see specialists. Additionally, Medicare Advantage plans have smaller networks. If your doctor, hospital or specialist is not in your Medicare Advantage network, you may have to change providers or pay higher out-of-network costs. Some major hospital networks, such as Mayo Clinic, have stopped accepting most Medicare Advantage plans. Contact your State Health Insurance Program (www.shiphelp.org) to better understand your options.
At some point, we will all
need health insurance to help offset the cost of healthcare. Unfortunately, health insurance only gets more complicated as we grow older and enroll in Medicare. When deciding on a Medicare plan, make sure you understand your all in costs including premiums, deductibles, co-insurance and annual outof-pocket maximum. Take the time to review your insurance to ensure that you have adequate coverage. If you have a network of doctors you like, you should consider maintaining access to said doctors. Understanding the cost is important, but access to your doctors and medications is equally important.
Anthony Papa is a Financial Advisor with Davenport & Company LLC. Anthony can be reached at 757-3064817 or apapa@investdavenport. com. Davenport & Company LLC does not render Medicare advice. No one should act upon any Medicare information contained herein without consulting a representative of the Social Security Administration or Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
Anthony Papa
Why Do My Dog’s Feet Smell Like Fritos?
By Dr. Melissa McKendry Contributor
Mckendry
If you’ve ever bent down to cuddle your dog and suddenly caught the scent of corn chips, you’re not imagining things. Many owners report that their pup’s paws smell like Fritos or popcorn. While it can be funny at first, the smell is often a clue that something is going on with your dog’s skin.
The Cause: Yeast Overgrowth
The main culprit is usually an overgrowth of a yeast called *Malassezia*. This yeast normally lives on the skin in small numbers. However, warm and moist areas, like the spaces between the toes, create the perfect environment for it to multiply. Dogs with allergies are particularly prone,
as itching and licking make the problem worse. As yeast populations climb, that signature Frito-like odor develops.
Other Signs to Watch For
- Dogs may lick or chew at their paws excessively.
- The skin between the toes can appear red, greasy, or irritated.
- Chronic cases may cause thickened skin or dark stains from saliva.
What You Can Do
If your dog’s paws are smelling a little too snack-like, here are a few helpful steps:
- **Foot Soaks** – A soak in dilute vinegar (one part vinegar to two parts water) can help restore a healthy balance and discourage yeast.
- **Keep Paws Dry** – Since yeast thrives in moisture, be sure to dry your dog’s feet thoroughly after walks, especially in rainy or humid weather.
- **Veterinary Care** – If the odor persists or your dog seems
uncomfortable, it’s time for a vet visit. Depending on the severity, treatments may include medicated wipes, shampoos, or antifungal medication.
Final Note
While your dog’s “corn chip paws” might seem quirky or even endearing, that snack-like smell is really a sign of yeast overgrowth. A little extra care— along with veterinary guidance when needed—can keep paws
comfortable, itch-free, and a whole lot less aromatic.
So next time you smell Fritos on your dog, don’t go searching for chips under the 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
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Virginia Voices International Shines in Harmony “Reaching the World with Love... One Song at a Time”
By Vicki Bohannon Contributor
Incorporated in 2000, Virginia Voices International originated from the concept that music is a universal language and a medium through which the love of Jesus could be shared with our listeners both domestically and abroad. Since its founding, repertoires have included Broadway, patriotic and Christian music.
We have sung locally and internationally since our beginnings. Our first international trip was to England and Paris. Although planned in 2001, because of the events of 9/11, our first trip was postponed until 2002.
In 2004, we traveled to Salto, Uruguay to sing not only on the radio and on street corners, but also two concerts in a filled-to-capacity multi-level elaborate opera house.
We joined Global Missions Project, “Reach Moscow” in 2006. This week-long effort included 300 musicians working in orphanages in Russian cities. The week was completed in Moscow’s International House of Music. For the final concert selection, although surveilled by the KGB, the entire audience sang “How Great Thou Art”- some singing in English and some in Russian. What a magical moment!
Russia was followed by a 2008 trip to orphanages in Ukraine. We sang, played games, and delivered gift and Bibles to loving children
Thank you, Hampton Roads for supporting our ministry for the past 25 years!
in a gorgeous country filled with grateful people.
In 2014, Coastal Virginia magazine held a contest for the top non-profit charity in the region. More than 200 charities were nominated. VVI finished in the final 10. More recently, in 2015, the choir was featured by Lasalle Blanks, Emmy-award winning journalist, on his “13 NewsNow at 4~” making your mark” segment. Scotland, Guatemala and Nova Scotia have also been countries we have been blessed to sing in and perform other tasks as requested.
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In 2016, two top Nashville music producers came to Virginia Beach to record VVI’s latest CD, “Reach the World,” which is now available on our website, www.vavoicesintl. org. The CD is an inspirational and entertaining blend of Broadway, patriotic and Christian music.
Domestically, we have focused our attention on veterans, as well as the homeless and orphans. We answer whatever needs our hosts may have. Our trips have included not only visits to local veterans’ hospitals, but also several trips to veterans’ homes and hospitals in Charleston, South Carolina.
The Local Sun Magazine is mailed to over 12,900 homes in Little Neck and Great Neck free of charge every month. This would not be possible without the continued support of our loyal advertisers. Please give them a chance to earn your business and let them know that you saw their ad in the Local Sun.
Thank You
Among other projects, we helped build a road in an orphanage in South Carolina. Also, we completed major repairs in a homeless shelter in Las Vegas. Local homeless shelters are visited regularly. At a performance in New York’s Carnegie Hall, we sang original compositions with other vocalists and orchestra.
Our love of singing inspires us to answer as many calls as we are able. Our mission statement is “To reach the world with love one song at a time.” Please visit our website. You will find contact information there. If you enjoy singing and mission work, come join us! www.vavoicesintl.org. (757-408-4441)
Our “Christmas Celebration” will be held in the Great Neck Baptist Church welcome center, 1020 General Jackson Drive, on December 5 at 6:30 pm. We would love to have you join us! No tickets will be sold. Donations will be greatly appreciated.
Vicki Bohannon is a co-founder and CEO of Virginia Voices International.
Image courtesy of Vicki Bohannon
City of Virginia Beach
Contributor
America is preparing to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026. Local events 250 years ago helped to fuel the movement toward independence and strengthen the resolve of local citizens to accomplish self governance. One of those events was a skirmish at Kemp’s Landing (Kempsville) between the Princess Anne County militia and British soldiers under Virginia Royal Governor John Murray, Earl of Dunmore (Lord Dunmore).
Commemoration Activities
The Virginia Beach VA250 Committee and the City of Virginia Beach will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Skirmish at Kemp’s Landing on November 15 and 16 at City View
Commemorating the 250th Anniversary of the Skirmish at Kemp’s Landing
Park (2073 Kempsville Road).
The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday the 15th (the anniversary date) and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday the 16th. It is free and open to the public.
Historical reenactment events will be coordinated by the 7th Virginia Regiment of the Continental Line. Encampments of both Patriot militia/Continental Army
Ship’s Cat
troops and British soldiers will welcome visitors with authentic demonstrations of camp life during the Revolutionary War. There will be a demonstration battle to represent the sights and sounds of military engagements of the War for Independence. A re-enactment of the Skirmish at Kemp’s Landing will follow and Lord Dunmore will be on site to read his historic Proclamation.
Information about the event
is available at https://va250. org/virginia-beach/
The Skirmish at Kemp’s Landing – Its Place in Our History
In April 1775, Governor Dunmore seized the colony’s gunpowder supply from the Williamsburg Magazine. The ensuing standoff between Virginia Patriots and Dunmore did not result in bloodshed, as had occurred in New England at Lexington and Concord. Nevertheless, the Governor soon decided that his palace in Williamsburg was not defensible, and he took his leave on June 8 aboard the warship HMS Fowey. Lord Dunmore’s ships eventually anchored in Norfolk’s harbor and he used his contingent of soldiers to seize arms from the populace and to intimidate them into pledging an oath to King George III. Along the way,
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Image courtesy of Bob Ruegsegger
Dunmore had also been offering freedom to enslaved men that could escape their circumstances and join his forces to fight against the Patriots. He issued a Proclamation on November 7, 1775, imposing martial law and making official that offer of freedom to the enslaved.
Local militia forces were actively preparing to defend their homes and families from Dunmore’s soldiers, and they were near the crossroads at Kemp’s Landing in mid-November. Dunmore and his troops were south of there, near Great Bridge (in present-day Chesapeake) when word came of the militia at Kemp’s Landing. As the British approached on November 15, 1775, anxious militiamen fired too soon, revealing their position along the roadway. The experienced British soldiers maneuvered into position and released their volley, killing five Patriots and causing the militia to retreat. Several of the militia’s leaders were captured, including Colonel Joseph Hutchings, and two additional militiamen lost their
lives drowning during the retreat.
After the militia had fled, Lord Dunmore set up his headquarters in Kemp’s Landing in the home of merchant George Logan, a staunch Loyalist. Dunmore took advantage of the victory to reissue his Proclamation and to encourage the local populace to pledge their loyalty to the crown. Recent scientific and historic research provides substantial support that it was Logan that had built the historic Pleasant Hall at Kemp’s Landing and welcomed Lord Dunmore
into its halls as his guest.
Several weeks later, British forces would be soundly defeated at Great Bridge. Dunmore soon abandoned his hopes of garnering strong loyalist support from the local population and departed a burning Norfolk with a barrage of artillery fire on January 1, 1776.
Although brief in nature and small in scale, the Skirmish at Kemp’s Landing proved to be a historically significant event on the road to Independence. The first Patriots to die in battle on Virginia soil during the
Revolutionary War, including local man John Ackiss (the only named casualty that has come down through history), fell at Kemps Landing. Dunmore’s “Ethiopian Regiment” of formerly enslaved men engaged in their first combat here as they sought a different avenue for their freedom. Dunmore reissued his Proclamation of martial law and freedom for the enslaved at Kemps Landing soon after the skirmish was over. The blood shed at Kemp’s Landing propelled Virginians into the rebellion against the British Crown and down the road to Independence.
Mark Reed
The article was written by Mark Reed, Historic Preservation Planner with the City of Virginia Beach. 757-385-8573, mreed@vbgov.com virginiabeach.gov/historicpreservation
Nearby Places to Explore: Kay’s Acres & Harmonia Equestrian
Connecting Families, Nature and Horses in Suffolk
By Melanie Harris Contributor
Tucked away from the busy tourist spots of Hampton Roads, Kay’s Acres and Harmonia Equestrian offer a peaceful, yet captivating escape for anyone who loves scenic landscapes, gentle animals and outdoor adventure. From festive seasonal traditions to hands-on equestrian experiences, owners Joseph Vincent and Jennifer Rose have devoted their lives—and their farms—to sharing their passion for horses with both locals and visitors.
“We wanted to create a place where families can spend time outdoors and experience the joy of connecting with horses, whether it’s by stopping in for a trail ride on the way to the beach or through years of horseback riding lessons at Harmonia,” said Joseph. “Our goal has always been to make horsemanship approachable, fun and meaningful for riders of all ages.”
At Kay’s Acres, horseback riding trails wind through the farm’s picturesque grounds, which include a Western frontierinspired town, a petting zoo, and endless opportunities for taking photos and creating memories. Open seven days a week, the farm offers several booking options, including private trail rides and group rides for organizations such as Girl Scouts or veterans’ groups.
Whether it’s a first horseback ride or a familiar rhythm along wellloved trails, the farm provides fun, memorable experiences for families and riders.
Each December, Kay’s Acres transforms into a glowing wonderland for its annual Light the Town event. Twinkling lights illuminate the Western Frontier Town, where visitors of all ages can enjoy the farm’s beloved petting zoo, a live nativity, pony rides and photo opportunities with Santa and Dominic, the
Italian Christmas Donkey.
Three miles from Kay’s Acres, the couple’s other farm, Harmonia Equestrian offers horseback riding lessons, horse training and boarding for those seeking a deeper equestrian experience. Harmonia Equestrian offers lessons that range from beginner to advanced, with schooling shows that take place several times a year.
“At Harmonia, the focus is on building confidence and a genuine
connection with the horse, “ said Jennifer Rose. “Young riders gain a sense of accomplishment, while adults often find themselves learning as much about patience and trust as they do about riding horses.”
And for a truly unique experience, visitors to Harmonia Equestrian can observe—or even participate in—Mustang training. Well-known in the equestrian community for their expertise in gentling and training wild horses under saddle, Joseph
Images courtesy of Suffolk Tourism Office and Kay’s Acres
Vincent, Jennifer Rose and their daughter, Reagan Rose have earned recognition in several competitions, including the Maryland Mustang Challenge, The Devil’s Garden Mustang Challenge, and the prestigious Mustang classic held in Kentucky horse park. Their passion for these remarkable animals offers a rare opportunity to witness the patience, skill and connection required to transition mustangs from the wild into, in many cases,
the Harmonia Equestrian lesson program.
Joseph and Jennifer have created more than just farms—they’ve crafted places where families, friends and horse enthusiasts of all ages can connect with nature, with each other and with horses.
Melanie Harris is the owner of C&S Consulting, LLC. csmarketingconsulting.net melanie@csmarketingconsulting.net
Kay’s Acres
800 Lummis Road
Suffolk, VA 23437
757-932-0551 kaysacres.com
Harmonia Equestrian
832 Copeland Road
Suffolk, VA 23434
757-932-0551 harmoniaeq.com
Kay’s Acres & Harmonia Equestrian
Town Center
Drive Time from Town Center, Virginia Beach: 44 minutes
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Middle two images courtesy of Outbreak Tunnel of Terror 2025. Far right image courtesy of Haunted Hunt Club Farm.
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The tradition of carving jack-o’lanterns originated in Ireland, where people carved turnips. When Irish immigrants came to America, they found pumpkins more plentiful and easier to carve.
Trick-or-Treating evolved from medieval practices like souling, where the poor would go door to door offering prayers for the dead in exchange for food.
According to a recent article in Reader’s Digest, which referenced data from candystore.com, the top three Halloween candy treats are M&M’s, Reese’s Cups and Sour Patch Kids. They also found that the most popular candy in Virginia is Butterfinger.
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COLLEGE FOOTBALL
Old Dominion University
Football Schedule 2025
dates and times are subject to change. Check websites.
Norfolk State University
Football Schedule 2025
