Reptiles, Amphibians, Mammals & Insects Found in Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
By Nylia Laney Contributor
There is so much nature in our area, all you have to do is look for it. Sometimes, it seems that nature finds me. Birding is a great hobby to have but there is so much more nature out there to explore such as different mammals, turtles, frogs, skinks, squirrels and insects and more. My motto for exploring nature is to stop, look and listen. One of my favorite places to explore nature is the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. They have easy to walk trails and so much more. There is a sense of peace and serenity for me at Back
Bay. Many of the photos posted here are from Back Bay National Wildlife refuge or from my own backyard.
Snakes are all around us and it helps to know which ones are venomous and how to identify them. There are three venomous snake species in Virginia, cottonmouths, also known as water moccasins, copperheads and timber rattlesnakes. In our area the timber rattlesnake is often referred to as the canebrake rattlesnake. Venomous snakes have triangular heads instead of narrow oval heads and they have elliptical eyes instead
Image courtesy of Nylia Laney
Courtesy of Al Chewning Courtesy of Chris Ramsay
Otter at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Build, nurture, and let go, the Robin’s way
By Karen Beardslee Kwasny Columnist
Karen Kwasny
Robins are my favorite sign of spring. I began noticing them as a young girl growing up in Pennsylvania. I loved how the world filled with their songs as the days grew warmer and longer. Their nesting habits were of particular interest to me. It fascinated me to learn that male and female robins contribute to the nest’s creation and “chick” rearing.
Robins have multiple broods yearly, building a new nest for each brood. They will abandon nests if safety becomes an issue or there’s too much human traffic nearby. Only the robin can know what changes their mind about a spot selected and then abandoned. It’s a sight to behold when they choose to stay where human observation is possible. It’s also a lesson in letting go.
I enjoyed robin company the year after our youngest lost interest in the playset we built in the backyard. The set had been a favorite playground for him and his friends. They’d disappear to it after school. On weekends, we’d rig up a television in the covered fort area for movies during sleepovers. The years passed and the kids moved on to sports and cars, and the playset spent
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more time empty than occupied. Eventually, the favored toy simply took up space in our yard.
It was late spring the year I realized the playset was not only gathering rust. I was mowing around the swings when I noticed a trail of thin blue ribbon hanging from a rafter nearby. I went to have a look. Maybe a kite or deflated balloon was stuck in the wood. Then, it became clear – there was a bird’s nest in the eaves.
I was transfixed by the intricacy on display --the smooth, muddy roundness of the nest’s interior, the way the birds had fashioned the blue string to become both part of the nest and the element that caught my attention. It was breathtakingly fragile and undoubtedly strong. I wondered where the birds had gone and if they would be coming back. I worried I had disturbed them and forced them on their way.
I avoided mowing near the playset
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Contributors
Al Chewning Karen Kwasney
Dr. Adelia Gregoire Nylia Laney
Dr. Melissa McKendry
Gary Layne Kim Reed
Anthony Papa Cheryl Lockhart
during the following weeks. Once, I tiptoed close enough to see three round blue eggs in the nest and then witnessed the mother’s return to roost. Her mate’s songs, like longing, filled my yard from dawn to dusk.
The robins held my attention that spring. The playset was near our back porch, and I found every excuse to spend time there. I was thrilled when the hatchlings’ beaks could be seen just above the nest’s edges. I felt witness to some small greatness when the mother and father were together at the nest. I anthropomorphized all their actions – theirs was love and dedication we are told only humans experience.
Eventually, the young birds grew too big for their home. One by one, they perched on the curved sides of the nest and then on a playset beam. As I did, they listened to their parents’ songs, calling them from nearby trees and encouraging them to try
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
their wings. And, so, each did. All at once, the yard was silent. I went back to mowing around and under the playset where the nest sat empty, and the blue ribbon hung ever more loosely as time passed. I knew the birds would not be back. They’d find a new place for their next brood. The empty nest would fall to the ground and disappear with the elements and time.
“Isn’t that the way of things,” I thought, the last time I mowed around the playset that summer, which had become like the nest –aged with disuse. It needed a good relocation at best. That night, I put it on Craig’s list. It was gone that Saturday. The family that took it were thrilled by its potential for fun in their backyard. The robins came and went that year. The loveliness of their nest and songs and the example of their patience and ability to raise their family and move on when the job was done stays with me. Whenever I find myself lamenting an ending – and there are many in life, especially with children – I recall the robins who, once raising their chicks was done, moved on unphased to the next season. We’re at our best, I now know, when we do the same – perhaps with a song to help us on the way.
Karen Beardslee Kwasny is a former Virginia Beach Planning Commissioner and college professor. leejogger@gmail.com
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49th Annual Norfolk Harborfest
America’s largest and longest-running free maritime festival celebrates its 49th year in 2025. From June 6-8, enjoy thrilling activities, live music, the Parade of Sail (noon on Friday), a massive fireworks show, a drone show, Navy exhibits, family fun, artisan foods, and regional entertainment.
• Fri 6/6 & Sat 6/7 Noon to 11 pm Sun 6/8 Noon to 6 pm
• Free
• Town Point Park - Norfolk Waterfront
• festevents.org
Chalk The Walk
2025 Theme “Starring Roles” Commemorate the characters and narratives from your beloved movies, television series, novels, and video games by transforming the Virginia Beach Boardwalk into a colorful masterpiece!
• Sat 6/14 10 am to 5 pm
• Free and open to the public
• On the boardwalk - 16th to 18th Streets Virginia Beach Oceanfront
• beacheventsvb.com
Juneteenth At The Beach
Juneteenth, celebrated on Jun 19th, marks the end of slavery in the U.S. In 1865, Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, informing enslaved people of their freedom-two years after Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. Also called Freedom Day and Jubilee Day, it became a federal holiday honoring Black history and resilience.
• Thur 6/19 to Sun 6/22
• Visit website for admission & event info
• 24th Street Park Virginia Beach Oceanfront
• visitvirginiabeach.com/juneteenth-atthe-beach/
Local Events
Tidewater Comicon
The largest comic convention in Coastal Virginia, offering two days of entertainment for the whole family. Visitors can enjoy celebrating their beloved fandoms with celebrity appearances, comic book artists, voice actors, cosplayers, gaming activities, discussion panels, contests, and much more.
• Sat 6/28 10:30 am to 6 pm Sun 6/29 10:30 am to 5 pm
• $27 to $105 - Several Ticket Options Other fees may apply
• Virginia Beach Convention Center 1000 19th Street
• tidewatercomicon.com
June 2025
6/1 Hurricane Season Starts
6/6 D-Day
6/7 Belmont Stakes
6/126/15 US Open Golf Championship
6/13 VB Public Schools - Last Day
6/15 Father’s Day
6/19 Juneteenth Independence Day
6/20 Summer Solstice/1st Day of Summer
Stars & Stripes Celebration
Celebrate Independence Day at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. Enjoy live concerts leading up to a breathtaking fireworks display over the water at 9:30 pm.
• Fri 7/4 7 pm - 11 pm
• Free and open to the public
• Concert Series at 17th St Park, 24th St Park, and 31st St Neptune’s Park
• beacheventsvb.com
Celebration at Mount Trashmore
Celebrate Independence Day with children’s activities, main stage performances, food vendors, and end the night with one of the most beautiful firework displays. When the parking lots at Mount Trashmore are full, Edwin Dr between Independence Blvd and South Blvd may close. Parking begins at 2 pm. Expect delays.
• Fri 7/4 5 pm - 10 pm
• Parking $20 cash, Admission Free
• 310 Edwin Dr, Virginia Beach, Virginia
• parks.virginiabeach.gov.com
July 2025
7/4 US Independence Day
7/67/13 Shark Week
7/15 MLB All-Star Game
7/17 Disneyland Opens, 1955
7/20 Moon Landing Anniv., 1969
7/20 National Ice Cream Day
7/26 US Postal Service Est., 1775
7/31 Jimmy Hoffa goes missing, 1975
All events are subject to change. For the most current info please check event website.
Image courtesy of the city of Virginia Beach
Image courtesy of the city of Virginia Beach
Local Ice Cream Shops
Little Neck & Great Neck
Blue Cow Ice Cream Co. 2817 Shore Drive Suite 111, VB
Bruster’s Real Ice Cream 4921 Virginia Beach Blvd, VB
757-937-6698
bluecowicecream.com
757-499-4343 brusters.com/locations/vabeach/162
Carvel 3746 Virginia Beach Blvd, VB 757-486-7429 carvel.com
Cold Stone Creamery 737 First Colonial Road Suite 208, VB 757-904-1666 coldstonecreamery.com
Gelati Celesti Ice Cream 754 First Colonial Road, VB
757-937-0471 gelatiicecream.com/va-beach
Gelati Celesti Ice Cream 4485 Virginia Beach Blvd 757-394-8668 gelatiicecream.com
Gerald’s Ice Cream & Pastry 1612 Laskin Road Suite 770, VB 757-417-7600 geraldsicecream.com
Lolly’s Creamery 4000 Virginia Beach Blvd, VB 757-330-1490 lollyscreamery.com
North End Pizza & Ice Cream 2973 Shore Drive, VB 757-496-2600 hersheysicecream.co
Sweet Frog 1340 North Great Neck Road, VB 757-961-9333 sweetfrog.com
The Yard Milkshake Bar 3229 Virginia Beach Blvd, VB 757-987-1454 theyardmilkshakebar.com/virginia-beach
If you are going the to the oceanfront please visit our friends at Ben & Jerry’s 2510 Atlantic Avenue.
What’s the Scoop on Ice Cream?
According to the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA)
2024 Ice Cream & Frozen Novelty Trends Survey
America’s top 10 favorite ice cream flavors:
Vanilla
Chocolate
Strawberry
Butter Pecan
Cookie Dough
Cookies and Cream
Mint Chocolate Chip
Chocolate Chip
Rocky Road
Peanut Butter/PB Cup
Production
In 2023, the United States produced over 1.3 billion gallons of ice cream.
Employment
The ice cream industry supports nearly 29,000 direct jobs and contributes more than $13 billion to the U.S. economy.
Business Trends
Most ice cream companies in the U.S. are family-owned and have been in operation for more than 50 years.
Annual Consumption
The average American eats about 20 pounds of ice cream per year, or roughly 4 gallons.
Continued from Page 1
of round eyes. You can see the difference in some of the photos that are posted.
Copperheads are the most common venomous snake in Virginia. They have copper-like coloring on their heads and dark brown hourglass shaped bands on their back. They can be found in forests, near water or damp areas with tall grass but can also be found in urban areas. Remove leaf and rock piles from your yard as copperheads look for a cool place to hide in hot weather. Copperheads are not aggressive if you don’t bother them.
Cottonmouths are found in southeastern Virginia primarily south of the James River. The cottonmouth derives its name from the white color inside their mouth which looks like cotton. They prefer to live in
wetland areas such as swamps and marshes. They also can be found in lakes, ponds and rivers. They have very large triangular pointed heads. The adults are large heavy-bodied snakes and are usually dark brown with crossbands. Young cottonmouths are usually lighter with a yellow tail tip. Most of my cottonmouth photos have been taken at the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge.
According to Virginia DWR, “the Canebrake Rattlesnake is the only species of rattlesnake native to southeastern Virginia.” “It is a protected snake in Virginia. It is listed as an endangered snake and it is unlawful to harm, collect or possess these snakes.” They average 3 to 5 feet long. They are typically grey with a pink hue to their skin. They prefer to live in forests and feed on mammals such as mice, rabbits, rats and
birds. They are not particularly aggressive but will rattle their tails and strike if threatened.
If you find a snake in your yard, don’t panic. Stay calm and avoid any sudden movements. Most snakes are not aggressive. You should not kill a snake. Allow the snake to move away on its own. There are licensed wildlife removal companies in our area that you can call to remove a snake from your yard. Snakes can be beneficial in controlling pests and maintaining a healthy ecosystem. They are a
natural pest control by eating grasshoppers, slugs and small rodents in your garden.
So, get out this summer and explore, it could be a simple walk or a long hike on a nature trail. A simple walk can reduce stress, improve your mental health and is a great way to connect with nature. You never know what you will find. Stop, look and listen.
Nylia Laney is a native of Virginia Beach and enjoys nature photography.
All Images courtesy of Nylia Laney
Visit page 14 for more photos
Black and Yellow Garden Spider
American Bullfrog
Ribbon Snake
Grasshopper
Ribbon Snake
How Seaside Park Saved Virginia Beach
By Al Chewning Author/ Historian/ Storyteller
Al Chewning
On June 7, 1907, an offduty soldier, walking on the beach in the predawn hours, noticed a fire at a nearby building.
His alertness, and his bravery, saved countless lives as the famed Princess Anne Hotel was completely engulfed in flames in less than twenty minutes. Two employees of the hotel joined the soldier, going room to room, alerting the guests and leading them to safety. They both lost their lives.
Since 1890 the Princess Anne Hotel was known nationally as
a “Grand Hotel, like no other.” It was a flagship resort, visited by Alexander Graham Bell and President Grover Cleveland, among many other elite names, and its loss critically impeded the small town’s development.
Other hotels, built in the following years were not as elegant and the wealthy guests refused to return, saying they could not find satisfactory quarters in Virginia Beach, and didn’t want a “splendidly equipped cottage” but preferred a first-class hotel.
In 1912, Northern Southern Railroad extended their tracks past 17th Street and built the Seaside Park & Virginia Beach Casino. The entertainment venue occupied three blocks along the oceanfront: 31st Street, 32nd Street and 33rd Street. The park’s purpose was to provide
visitors with entertainment at the beach without having to spend the night. It would convert Virginia Beach from a small, quiet coastal town into a thriving tourist destination.
The initial response was much greater than anticipated, and
A Challenging Variety Of Golf Courses
1914 Post Card
Ballroom Ticket, date unknown
by the end of the year Seaside Park was known as, “The Most Magnificent Seaside Resort South on New York.”
The park’s most appealing attraction was an ornate carousel of 50 animals including horses, lions, unicorns and dragons. Each one was decorated with sparkling jewels. Mirrors and overhead lighting gave the appearance of a kaleidoscope when the ride was in motion.
Other features of the park included the Peacock Ballroom, Casino Café, and Airdrome, all of enormous proportions. The ballroom was the largest dance floor in the East, covering 50,000 square feet. The Casino Café served 300 people at a time, offering 75 cent meals of freshcaught seafood. The Airdrome presented first time movies.
In 1913 even more “Ripley’s largest things” were added to the park. One was the Camel Back, the longest and tallest roller coaster in the South. A modern bathhouse provided bathing suits to rent and lockers for “surf bathing” in the ocean. Oh,
Advertisement 1946
and one thousand bathrooms!
Then, on September 12, 1955, there was another massive fire. This time the flames devoured two thirds of the amusement park, leaving only the section between 31st
The Influx of tourists boosted the local economy leading to the development of hotels, restaurants, and businesses along the Oceanfront. In the 1920s the Laskin brothers, Jacob, Elmer, and Louis, leased Seaside Park from the from the railroad for twenty years. They developed a $100,000 improvement plan for the park. Along with additional rides and
Advertisement 1958
a more modern appearance, those improvements included the construction of four miles of concrete roadway from the beachfront to London Bridge. Previously, the only access for automobiles was Virginia Beach Boulevard (17th Street).
Continued on Page 17
1918 Post Card
“I am very satisfied... I received several calls my first month, resulting in two sales.”
- Don Pipkin Owner, Pipkin Home Improvements “Sun Magazine has been such a blessing for our small business.”
- Chuck Snellinger Owner, 757 Fence and Deck
“My ad payments vs return have shown this was a good decision.”
- Christian Davis Owner, Beach Tree Care
“Our ad in the Local Sun has brought us new customers every month”
- Patty Scherer Owner, John’s Barber Shop at London Bridge Shopping Cener
All photos by Nylia Laney
Yellow Garden Spider
Wolf Spider
Green Snake & Yellow Bellied Slider Turtle Party
Summer Internships under the Fair Labor Standards Act
By William Furr Contributor
Employers who use summer interns should be aware of the requirements of the Fair Labor Standards Act (“FLSA”). The FLSA requires for-profit employers to pay interns for hours worked unless specific criteria are met. In order for a for-profit employer to use unpaid interns, the U.S. Department of Labor (“DOL”) takes the position that the intern (i.e. not the employer) should be the party primarily benefitting from the experience. The DOL considers the following factors in determining whether the intern should be paid:
• The extent to which the intern and the employer clearly understand that there is no expectation of compensation.
• The extent to which the internship provides training that would be similar to that which
would be given in an educational environment.
• The extent to which the internship is tied to the intern’s formal education program by integrated coursework or the receipt of academic credit.
• The extent to which the internship accommodates the intern’s academic commitments by corresponding to the academic calendar.
• The extent to which the internship’s duration is limited to the period in which the internship provides the intern with beneficial learning.
• The extent to which the intern’s work complements, rather than displaces, the work of paid employees while providing significant educational benefits to the intern.
• The extent to which the intern and the employer understand that
the internship is conducted without entitlement to a paid job at the conclusion of the internship.
If the analysis of these factors establishes that the intern should be classified as an employee, then the intern should be paid the minimum wage (which is $12.41 in 2025 in Virginia) for hours worked and should be paid overtime pay at time and one-half for hours worked more than 40 hours in a workweek.
On the other hand, if the analysis confirms that the intern is not an
employee, then the internship can be unpaid. In this case, the intern would not be entitled to minimum wage or overtime pay under the Fair Labor Standards Act.
If in doubt, the least risky course is to pay summer interns for hours worked. Employers who choose not to pay their interns, should make sure that they satisfy the requirements of the Fair Labor Standards Act.
For educational purposes only. This is not legal advice. William Furr is a local attorney specializing in labor and employment law.
Continued from Page 13
In the 1930s, a new entertainment complex was built at 17th Street. Called, “the New Casino” it also featured a dining hall, a ballroom. And it had a huge saltwater swimming pool. Something Seaside did not have. The new competition did draw visitors away, but Seaside
Park remained a very poplar landmark for both locals and tourists, but Seaside Park remained active as part of the poplar activities available to locals and tourists.
On September 12, 1955, there was another massive fire, like the one that consumed the Princess Anne Hotel. This time it destroyed two thirds of
the Seaside Amusement Park. In spite of the devastation it survived for thirty-one years, finally closing in 1986. Nothing remains except memories. The history we know depends greatly on the source of the information we learn it from. Fact and folklore are tightly connected in history. Sometimes it’s difficult to know where one ends and the other begins.
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
1958 Postcard showing vacant lots after fire (lower left)
1969 Postcard
All images courtesy of Al Chewning
Accepting Ourselves, Our Thoughts & Our Feelings
By Adelia Gregoire, Psy.D. Contributor
Mel Robbins’ widely popular
“Let Them Theory” is a rebranding of an ancient spiritual concept. You may know it as “The Serenity Prayer” or as “Radical Acceptance”. It is widely popular because it resonates with a deeper truth: the only thing that we can control is our own behavior. All of the rest we must accept. One way or another. Willingly or unwillingly. It’s the unwilling part that creates the most disruption in our lives. It prolongs discontent, promotes dysregulation and leads to unhappiness and possibly
depression. Mel Robbins makes a strong case to accept others’ choices and behaviors even if they don’t align with our interests and values.
Just as importantly, we need to accept ourselves so that our behaviors do align with our interests and values. In challenging times, thoughts and feelings can flood us. Unless we take the time to allow them to manifest without judgment
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or action, they cannot be used to inform us. This leaves us vulnerable to react rather than respond. In difficult times, we need to allow space for our thoughts and feelings to unfold before acting on them. If we are quick to judge our thoughts or feelings, we risk casting them aside or asunder where their value in informing a response cannot be discerned. Another aspect of accepting ourselves is to allow for (even embrace!) mistakes, flaws, and weaknesses. We cannot be the best version of ourselves if we are denying, avoiding or minimizing important aspects of our personality and character. An honest, nonjudgmental assessment of ourselves allows us to identify areas for growth so that authentic self-improvement can occur. While we certainly don’t want to define ourselves by our shortcomings, self-improvement cannot progress if self-judgment
disconnects and distorts our self-awareness and keeps us from seeing ourselves honestly.
So, not only do we need to let them (others) do what they choose to do, we also need to let our thoughts and feelings and mistakes and flaws be what they are. As we allow all aspects of ourselves to unfold without denial, minimization or judgment, we are in a better position to put them in proper perspective so that they can guide us in wiser choices and behaviors. Let others do what they will, let your thoughts and feelings and mistakes and weaknesses be what they are. True self-acceptance stabilizes our emotions and re-orients us towards a sense of well-being.
Adelia Gregoire, Psy.D. is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with Community Psychological Resources
Adelia Gregoire
Alternative Assets and their risk to retail investors
By Anthony Papa Contributor
Anthony Papa
Maybe you’ve heardalternative assets are the latest product de jour. They have become more accessible to the average investor and more widely adopted by financial advisors. For a lot of investors, this is unfamiliar territory. The allure of alternative assets is stability AND higher returns. Great. But in the words of my partner, “where’s the voodoo?”
The traditional asset classes of cash, bonds and stocks are complementary in nature and work together to help provide liquidity, stability and growth. The underlying allocation of your financial assets is primarily dependent on your goals and risk tolerance. So where do alternative assets fit into the equation? There is no easy answer as it’s dependent on a confluence of factors. For higher net worth investors with ample liquidity there may be a place for alternative assets in a portfolio. For investors of more modest means, exposure to alternative investments might not make sense.
The moniker “alternative assets” has come to include private equity and debt, venture capital, infrastructure, cryptocurrency, collectibles and commodities. Three in particular have garnered more attention as of late – private credit and equity and crypto. I’ll address crypto in a future column. It deserves our undivided attention. Until recently, investment exposure to private credit and equity was largely unavailable to the investing public. In years past, accredited investors and large institutional investors such as college endowments, pension plans and
hedge funds had almost exclusive access to these asset classes.
Simply put, private equity represents an investment in private companies which are not publicly traded. Similar to private equity, private credit simply refers to loans or other debt instruments that are not publicly traded. Private equity and debt firms pool money from large institutions and accredited investors for investment. To increase their investor base, private equity and debt firms like Blackstone and KKR have invited the retail investor to the party. You might want to think long and hard before accepting an invitation.
Private debt and equity markets are valued in the trillions of dollars. Unlike exchange traded funds (ETFs) and publicly traded stocks and bonds, there is no secondary market for direct exposure to private credit and equity. Publicly traded stocks and bonds can be bought and sold daily in a well-functioning market place. This is not the case for private equity and debt. There is no price discovery. Valuations are based largely on internal models, not a market of millions of buyers and sellers engaging in price discovery. A popular retail chassis for exposure to private
credit and equity is the interval fund. Interval funds are closed end funds that offer redemptions, or buy backs, at regular intervals. Shares do not trade publicly and cannot be redeemed other than on pre-determined dates, which are typically quarterly.
Additionally, most interval funds have a cap on redemptions, which is typically 5% of total assets. Investing in private credit or equity through an interval fund will likely limit you to four repurchase dates per year and restrict how much you can sell. This does not lend itself to efficient or effective re-balancing. And in the event of a liquidity crisis such as the early stages of the Global Financial Recessions (GFC) you may find yourself trapped in an investment with an unknown or declining value as you wait for a repurchase period. And even then, it’s possible you will not be able to liquidate your position entirely if other investors have the same idea.
On top of the liquidity issues, these funds can carry significantly higher expenses. Annual fees can easily eclipse 2% with some of the fund structures imposing exit and incentive fees. This compares unfavorably to managed ETFs and mutual funds which
could have expenses well under 1% typically without liquidity restrictions. As an aside, some of the recently announced public private partnerships carry lower expense ratios more comparable to managed ETFs and mutual funds.
And how confident are we that private credit and equity will perform well during a bear market providing our portfolios with stability? A recession or slowing economy could drive defaults in the credit market and / or lower the valuation of private equity. If the year-to-date performance (through May 27th) of publicly traded Blackstone and KKR is any indication of how private credit and equity perform in a sideways market, investors might be better served looking elsewhere for a hedge against publicly traded bonds and stocks.
Anthony Papa is a Financial Advisor with Davenport & Company. Anthony can be reached at 757-306-4817 or apapa@ investdavenport.com Davenport & Company is a financial services firm and does not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult your professional accounting or legal advisors prior to acting on any information provided by us that may have an effect in these areas.
The Dominion Derby Girls Invite You to Celebrate 20 Years of Roller Derby in Virginia
By Dana de Haan Contributor
In 2005, five roller derby enthusiasts laid the groundwork for Virginia’s first flat track roller derby league. Today, the Dominion Derby Girls are still rolling strong. The league now has 30 active members, including players, referees, and volunteers. They still regularly play at Haygood Skating Center and have raised thousands of dollars to donate to local charitable causes over the past two decades.
What is roller derby, anyway? It’s not the same sport you may have grown up watching on TV in the 70s, where players shoved their way through the pack with their elbows, or threw each other over the track’s railings. Nowadays, a dedicated crew of referees priori-
tize skater safety, and unsporting players get ejected. But it was that rough-and-tumble, edgy, action-packed spectacle that inspired a small band of enthusiasts to jump on the rising trend of home-grown roller derby leagues that arose in the early aughts.
It all started in Norfolk, where the initial founders skated in the streets of Ghent and started discussing league business at Colley Cantina in early 2005. Outdoor practices, fundraising and recruiting events, and press opportunities were common while the league was finding its footing. The Dominion Derby Girls jumped from Kempsville Roller Rink in Virginia Beach, to Plaza Roller Rink in Hampton, before finally finding a home at Haygood Skating Center, where the group has held their weekly practices
The beginnings of roller derby in those days were far from formulaic. The rules of flat track roller derby, how to train, and how to host bouts were new challenges to each league across the country.
With research, dedication, and some helpful pointers from a skater who had transferred from Tucson Roller Derby, the Dominion Derby Girls hosted their first bout in August 2006. The first home teams, the Femme Fatales
and home bouts since.
and the Dirty Diesel Darlins, faced off, with the Dirty Diesel Darlins claiming a victory of 197-124. The next year, the Dominion Derby Girls were among the first 40 teams accepted into the WFTDA (Women’s Flat Track Derby Association), the international governing body that sanctions interleague bouts and calculates team rankings.
This July 12th, the Dominion Derby Girls are going back to their beginnings by hosting a 20th anniversary bout where they will take up the team names that they retired back in 2012. Once more, the Femme Fatales (consisting of DDG skaters) will be competing against the Dirty Diesel Darlins (DDG’s sister league, Kill Devil Derby Brigade, will make up this team’s roster). The bout is meant to commemorate the origins of the league, the impact the league has had on the greater Hampton Roads area, and the unique ways that roller derby empowers its members and entertains its audience.
So what inspires skaters to willingly get knocked across rink floors, get right back up, and keep on rolling? For some skaters, identifying as a roller derby player inspires their self-image. Blondie Knocks says playing roller derby reminds herself to never shrink herself for others’ comfort. “If I ever feel small, I remind myself that I play roller derby and I stand firm and strong in whatever circumstances.” Winona Stryder, after being reminded by a coach
during practice to own her space on the track, carried that lesson back to her career as an OR nurse. She reports that “people at work noticed a change in me and my confidence levels.”
Despite the strength and confidence that players develop, it doesn’t contribute to ill-will or bravado among the relationships between the players. Injuries, penalties, and hard hits do happen, but the roller derby community can be incredibly tight-knit and supportive. Sloppy Jo, who, after watching a bout in 2019, decided to join the league in 2024, says
“from a viewer’s standpoint, every skater is tough and aggressive, but the skating community truly has a big heart.” Roller Gator, head of bout production, says “this sport has given me my life back. The acceptance I feel here is priceless.”
The impact of the Dominion Derby Girls goes beyond the track. Each year, the league votes to support a charity for the year which receives a percentage of all ticket sales; in 2025, the league has elected to benefit H.E.R. Shelter, an organization that provides emergency shelter and resources to victims of domestic violence.
The Dominion Derby Girls have in previous years financially supported and volunteered at other organizations, including Hope for Life Animal Rescue, Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and Eastern Shore, and the Unbroken Foundation.
Your local roller derby team’s success is entirely based on its volunteers. Skaters are as responsible for coaching themselves, as they are for marketing the league, recruiting new skaters, and organizing their events. To join, volunteer, or attend a bout, visit dominionderbygirls.net for more information.
All images courtesy of Chris Ramsay, League Photographer for Dominion Derby Girls
Where have all the Fireflies gone?
By Elizabeth Paiste Contributor
As a kid, the beginning of summer meant camping in the backyard, catching fireflies, and looking for shooting stars. These activities are all but a distant memory today. Man’s ever-present desire to extend our daytime hours with artificial lights has threatened more than just these simple childhood pleasures. Artificial lights have grown in such intensity over the past 100 years that they have become a major disruptor for all living creatures. And now, as Virginia transitions to modern, energy-efficient LED streetlights, Dominion Energy has chosen a type and style of lights that emits up to 30% unhealthy blue light waves. The impact of Dominion’s current LED choices will be like putting our existing streetlights on steroids.
What makes artificial lights at night unhealthy? According to the American Medical Association and the National Institutes of Health, all living creatures have acclimated their physical, mental and behavioral processes to respond to various degrees of sunlight and darkness. This is known as the Circadian Rhythm. For humans, our nighttime process begins after the sun sets with the production of melatonin that is triggered when the sun’s natural blue light waves have diminished. Blue light waves negatively impact our production of melatonin – this is why we are advised to turn off our electronics a few hours before going to bed. Melatonin kicks off our ability to sleep and provides antioxidant properties that boosts the immune system to fight heart disease, Alzheimer’s, IBS, Cancer and Diabetes, which are now on the rise. Simply put, darkness
is required for our bodies to run efficiently.
So what are our alternatives? Citizens for Responsible Lighting is a grassroots committee advocating for healthier LED light choices for our streetlights. We are part of a coalition of cities within Virginia going through the
same LED streetlight conversion process. Norfolk-based, we have partnered with members of the Audubon Society, DarkSky, VA, and city officials to encourage Dominion Energy to provide healthier LED lights, a technology that is currently available. Three things are important for a sound LED streetlighting strategy.
Artificial lights creating 24 hour cycle of “daylight” along wetland area. Image courtesy of Pat Scanlon
Firstly, we ask Dominion to use warm color LED lights under 3000 Kelvin in strength that emit negligible harmful blue light waves. Secondly, we want Dominion to use light fixtures that focus light downward onto the street without shining into neighboring homes. Thirdly, we ask Dominion to use the level of illumination best suited for each site, with adaptive controls for dimming and motion detection where possible.
According to the Illuminating Engineering Society, DarkSky International and VDOT, streetlighting should have a clear purpose, be the correct (warm) color, have adaptive controls where possible, be directed where needed, and be the minimal amount of light required to accomplish the task. At the moment, the LED light choices offered by Dominion Energy fail to meet these recommendations. But since the technologies exist, we must advocate for healthier LED streetlights.
Image courtesy of Travis Longcore
Your voice and actions matter. We are at a critical juncture with lighting changes within our state. This is a once in a generational chance to put in place lighting
Got QuickBooks?
strategies in our cities that are optimal for safety, human health and the environment. Let’s bring back those fireflies into our night sky. Contact us on Facebook CRLNorfolk, Instagram: CRL_Norfolk or email us at CRL.
Norfolk@gmail.com. But most importantly, contact your City Council Representative that you want a holistic LED plan for your city.
Elizabeth Paiste is a member of Citizens for Responsible Lighting.
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Schedule a free consultation to discuss your investment goals. We also offer retirement seminars. Please call for dates and times.
No, FTC “agents” with badge numbers aren’t calling you
Scammers impersonating the government — including the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) — is nothing new. But here’s a twist: scammers are now calling themselves FTC “agents” and supplying fake badge numbers and ID cards to try to convince you they are who they say they are. (…They’re not who they say they are. The FTC doesn’t have “agents.”) So how do you avoid scams like this?
These scams often start with someone reaching out about a supposed urgent problem. Maybe it’s a computer pop up saying you have a virus and to call tech support. Or a caller
What happens next? They transfer you to an “FTC agent” (fake) to supposedly help resolve the issue. That person may share “proof” they’re from the FTC, like a picture of a (fake) ID with goal? To convince you to transfer money out of your account and
Steer clear of FTC impersonators:
• Never transfer or send money to anyone, no matter who they say they are, in response to an unexpected call or message — even if they claim you’re just moving your money to “protect it.” In fact, nobody from the FTC
will ever (1) reach out to ask you to move money, or (2) connect you to someone who says to move money. That’s a scam.
• If you’re worried there’s a problem with your account or identity, stop and check it out. Call your real bank, broker, or investment advisor. Use the number you find on your statement — never the number the caller gave you, which will take you to the scammer.
• If you get a call or message like this, tell your bank or investment fund right away. Especially if you moved money or shared a verification code. Then tell the FTC: ReportFraud. ftc.gov. Used with permission from FTC
This hurricane season, prepare to avoid the scams
Weather forecasters are predicting an above-average hurricane season this year. When it comes to planning for a possible weather emergency, the more you know — and the earlier you know it — the better prepared you’ll be to avoid weather-related scams and fraud.
Kick start your to do list so you’re ready for whatever hurricanes or other big storms the summer throws at us — all while avoiding scams. Here are some steps to start with.
• Check your insurance policy to make sure it’s current. Find out what’s covered — and what isn’t.
• Do a household inventory. Make a list of your physical possessions and document them with photos or a video.
• Keep key documents safe, but accessible. Use a lockable fireproof box to gather important documents, so they’re ready to
go if you have to leave quickly. Include things like your household inventory list, Social Security and health insurance cards, copies of deeds, titles, wills, passports, birth and marriage certificates. Include some cash, since ATMs or banks may be closed, and an extra set of keys for your house and car.
• Check out home repair contractors before you need
one. Ask people you know and trust for recommendations. Then search online for the company’s name with words like “scam” or “complaint.” Confirm the contractor has the required licenses and that they’re insured. Then add their contacts in your phone or lock box. And, while you’re at it, save DisasterAssistance.gov to help you find local help in a disaster.
• Stay in the know. Bookmark ftc.gov/WeatherEmergencies so you always know how to avoid a scam while you prepare for or recover from a weather emergency. You’ll find ways to help you spot, avoid, and report scams as you prepare for, deal with, and recover from extreme weather and natural disasters. Used with permission from FTC
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Nearby Places to Explore: Gloucester A Timeless Destination for History Lovers
By Susan Ammons Contributor
Steeped in over three centuries of heritage, Gloucester, Virginia offers an unforgettable journey through time for history buffs, cultural explorers, and curious travelers alike. Featuring the Chesapeake Bay and five rivers, this destination blends stories from the Colonial and Revolutionary eras with small-town charm, beauty, and Southern hospitality. As Virginia prepares to commemorate 250 years of American independence, Gloucester proudly stands at the heart of the celebration, offering an immersive experience for visitors of all ages.
Exploring Gloucester’s Historic Core
Wander down Main Street in Gloucester’s Village and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Lined with beautifully preserved colonial architecture and dotted with charming shops, galleries, and eateries, the village offers a walkable experience where history meets modern adventure. Nearby, the Museum of History, housed in a 1770 tavern, serves as the county’s historical anchor. The museum features engaging exhibits, along with educational programs and events that bring Gloucester’s dynamic history to life.
Churches with Revolutionary Ties
Gloucester is home to several historic churches, anchoring Virginia’s faith and freedom story. Notably, Ware Episcopal Church, founded in the 1600s, and Abingdon Episcopal Church, dating to the 17th century, continue to stand as solemn witnesses to the events leading up to American independence. Both are recognized as key sites in the VA250 commemoration and invite reflection on the spiritual and
civic leaders of the era.
Uncovering the Past at Rosewell and Werowocomoco
No historical tour of Gloucester is complete without a stop at the Rosewell Ruins. Once among the grandest mansions in Colonial America, Rosewell was home to the Page family and a site of intellectual discourse in the 18th century. Though fire destroyed the mansion in 1916, its brick remains offer a hauntingly beautiful and educational experience. At the
Visitor Center, travelers can explore the Werowocomoco Exhibit, highlighting one of the most significant Indigenous sites on the East Coast. Through interactive displays and rare artifacts, the exhibit tells the story of the Powhatan capital, a vital part of Gloucester’s heritage. Werowocomoco, owned by the National Park Service, is planning to open the site to the public in the future.
With a deep-rooted past and active
Rosewell Ruins
All photos courtesy of Susan Ammons and Gloucester County
Edge Hill Service Station at the entrance to Main Street. Now home to the Center for Archaeology, Preservation and Education (CAPE).
Daffodil Festival. Held each spring to celebrate the culture and community of Gloucester and its heritage of daffodils.
present, Gloucester, Virginia invites you to explore its legacy and history firsthand. Whether you’re wandering through centuriesold ruins, commemorating the nation’s founding, or enjoying the hospitality of a riverside inn, Gloucester offers a destination where every path leads to a story worth discovering.
Susan Ammons is the Tourism & Marketing Supervisor for Gloucester County. 804-693-0014 sammons@gloucesterva.info
Visitor Center
6504 Main Street
Gloucester, VA 23061
Phone: 804-693-3215
gloucesterva.gov/tourism
Drive Time from Town Center Virginia Beach 1 hr., 16 min.
Upcoming Events
July 13
2PM
Buck’s Store Museum
July 22
Gloucester Fine Arts Museum
Aug. 17
Noon
Historic Court Circle
A Front Row Seat to American Victory in Yorktown
Historian Linda Grow shares her experiences as the former caretaker of the historic Little England estate.
This Is Us: Visions of Virginia
Opens at the Gloucester Fine Arts Museum, followed by pop-up exhibit “Revolutionary Fashion and Textiles” on September 14.
From Colony to Country
Presented by the Fairfield Foundation, brings Revolutionary-era to life through the stories of Lewis Burwell and John Page.
ALL EVENTS: gloucesterva.gov/tourism/#stay
Lodging
The Inn at Warner Hall
A luxurious, historic bed and breakfast along the Severn River.
Hampton Inn & Holiday Inn
Centrally located options for comfort and convenience.
Cannon firing during spring and fall living history weekends.
Gloucester Museum of History
Camp Cardinal, Machicomoco State Park & Thousand Trails
Family-friendly campgrounds with cabins & RV amenities.
Short-Term Rentals
Including charming waterfront cottages, rustic farm stays, and period homes full of character.
ALL LODGING: gloucesterva.gov/tourism/events
Do You Know: Fun Summertime Facts
Beach sand temperature can exceed 150°F in summer
Hot enough to burn bare feet.
Sunflowers follow the sun
Young sunflowers exhibit heliotropism, meaning they turn their heads to track the sun’s movement.
Watermelon is 92% water Making it one of the most hydrating summer fruits.
Lightning strikes more often in summer
Due to increased thunderstorms, summer sees the highest number of lightning strikes.
CABINETS WITH FLAIR
Designed
