Virginia Beach’s ViBe District Celebrates 10 Years in 2025
By Kate Pittman
Executive Director, ViBe Creative District
In April 2025, the ViBe Creative District will celebrate 10 years as the creative heartbeat of Virginia Beach, a place where hundreds of local artists are showcased, and dozens of diverse events take place each year. Since 2015, the ViBe Creative District has been adding hundreds of works of public art to Virginia Beach’s bustling resort. Additionally, ViBe has fostered a growing neighborhood of small, locally owned creative businesses that make a notable mark in Virginia Beach’s economy.
Created in partnership with the City of Virginia Beach, the ViBe Creative District was intended to spur economic development, attract residents and visitors to the once dormant neighborhood and to create a unique ambience at the resort. This central beach corridor provides an important cultural connection from the oceanfront beach on the east to the Virginia Beach Convention Center and Sport Center to the west.
Story continues on page 10A
Photo courtesy of ViBe District, Mural by Carl Medley
Clear Your Home and Mind as You Move On
By Karen Beardslee Kwasny Columnist
Karen Kwasny
My family moved into a new home last fall after over a year of transitional processes. The first was getting our house ready for sale. Packing up a home is no small thing, and weeding through the junk can be overwhelming. I approached the task with apprehension and curiosity -what would I find stored away in all those attic boxes? I learned that choosing what to keep or discard is difficult, for it has as much to do with things as it does with the habits of heart and mind those things engender. We had purchased many new items since moving in over a decade ago, but a good deal of stuff had also come along for the ride for too long. The identical red farm clocks, drop leaf table, and rolltop desk were not family heirlooms or worth much to us. What was the point of keeping them if we only planned to store them? I put them on Facebook Marketplace and sold them within a week.
After that money was made, I rolled up my sleeves with satisfaction and set out to tackle our kids’ sports trophies, outgrown clothes, and longforgotten yearbooks. This took
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a little longer as I frequently stopped to recall a game, a special day, or a small accomplishment. Finally, these items were boxed and handed over to our boys. We told them they could throw away their stuff if they didn’t want it. We weren’t lugging it to yet another attic storage space. Most of what came next was easy to root through and discard. Into the trash went the cords of broken Christmas lights, wornout Halloween decorations, and decrepit outdoor furnishings hardly worth painting again. Duplicate kitchen utensils and tools, including an “extra” blender and toaster and a never used carving knife kit, went to Goodwill. All aging towels and bedding that had been pushed to the back of the linen closet for God knows how long found its way to the trash. Clothes not worn within the last year were carefully sorted into “give,” or “throwaway” piles, which we managed immediately. This sorting and
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Contributors
Al Chewning Karen Kwasney
Dr. Adelia Gregoire Nylia Laney
Mark Rusnak Noah DeLorenzo
Dr. Melissa McKendry
Gary Layne Kim Reed
discarding went on with hardly a backward glance. But then came the white couch.
It was a lovely little couch, bought when we first moved in from an upscale furniture store nearby. Our youngest spotted it as we browsed the store one day, noting its unique curved structure. Gingerly, we sat upon its lush, wide cushions, our fingers pressing the rich, velvety upholstery subtly patterned with flowers, barely noticeable against the snowy white fabric. Unaccustomed to such luxury, we could hardly believe our luck. Not only was it on sale, the eager clerk told us, but there was an additional discount available if we wanted to take it home that day. I called my husband to bring the truck.
We situated the white couch in our home’s formal living room at the front of the house, a place meant for company and not much else. We rarely used the room, so the sofa sat white, welcoming, and
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empty. Each day, I’d look longingly at the couch, imagining a quiet evening curled up with a book on its plush cushions. During the holiday season, I’d envision family members on the couch enjoying cookies and hot chocolate. When friends visited, I’d plan cocktails on the couch, but we always ended up at the kitchen table or outside by the firepit. The sofa was rarely used, but the indulgent couch imaginings became a habit, and I grew attached to the couch because of them.
Of all the things I trashed and gave back or away, the couch was one of the most difficult because its constant messaging was a hard habit to break. It seemed if the couch was around there was a possibility of the relaxing luxuries I imagined. I realized, of course, that just as I didn’t need my son’s first pair of shoes, which he wore once, to remind me his childhood, I didn’t need the couch, which we used but a handful of times, to remind me of the joy of quiet time, the company of friends and family, and the importance of a little luxury in life wherever we can get it. I sold it to an older couple who were downsizing like us. They wanted it for their family room. I thought that was a great idea.
Karen Beardslee Kwasny is a former Virginia Beach Planning Commisioner and college professor. leejogger@gmail.com
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Local Events
53rd running to the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend
This St. Patrick’s Day tradition offers races for every goal: Marathon, Half Marathon, 8K, and various challenges. Regardless of the distance, you’ll enjoy Coastal Virginia’s flat, fast, and scenic course, culminating in a finish line with an Atlantic Ocean view. Post-race festivities will continue on the beach with Yuengling Beer and live music.
• Fri 3/15
11 am - 7 pm Sports & Fitness Expo*
Sat 3/15
7:30 am 8K Start, 30th & Pacific Ave
8:00 am - 12:30 pm Post Race Celebration
On the beach at 28th St
10:30 am Leprechaun Dash
31st St - Boardwalk
11:00 am Final Mile Start
31st St & Atlantic Ave
Noon - 5 pm Sports & Fitness Expo*
Sun 3/16
7:30 am Half Marathon & Marathon
42nd St & Atlantic Ave
8:30 am - 4 pm Post Race Celebration
On the beach at 28 St
•Check website for applicable fees
•*Virginia Beach Convention Center
1000 19th Street
•shamrockmarathon.com
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus
The reimagined circus invites audiences to witness superhuman feats that thrill families and fans of all ages. Experience the show like never before with immersive, 360-degree technology that connects you with unforgettable performers. Enjoy daring acts on a highwire, trapeze, bicycle, and more.
•Fri 3/21 7 pm
Sat 3/22 11 am, 3 pm & 7 pm
Sun 3/23 1 pm & 5 pm
• Ticket prices: $20 to $80, plus fees
•Scope Arena
201 E. Brambleton Ave, Norfolk •ringling.com
Bulls and Barrels Beach Rodeo at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront
Named “Best New Outdoor Event” in 2023, returns to Virginia Beach with bull riding, barrel racing, mini bull riding, rodeo clowns and Mutton Busting. Barrel racers and bull riders are competing for a $12,000 prize.
•Sat 4/12 3 pm - 5 pm
Sun 4/13 3 pm - 5 pm
Door Time 2 pm
•General Admission Bleachers $30 Preferred View VIP Boardwalk $55 Additional fees my apply Children 2 and under are free
•On the beach at 2rd Street Entrance at 3rd Street •beacheventsvb.com
March 2025
3/4 Mardi Gras / Fat Tuesday
3/9Daylight Savings Time*
3/13VB Public Schools
Adjusted Dismissal
3/17St. Patrick’s Day
3/20First Day of Spring
3/27 Major League Baseball Opening Day Earliest start in league history.
*If you are awake. Set your clock ahead one hour at 2 am on Sunday 3/9. (spring forward)
East Coast She-Crab Soup Classic @ Neptune’s Park
Indulge in the annual East Coast She-Crab Soup Classic at Virginia Beach Oceanfront, where top restaurants vie for “Best She-Crab Soup.” Sample and vote for the Sean Brickell People’s Choice Awards, and enjoy the Critics’ Choice Awards by culinary experts. Don’t miss this chance to taste the finest She-Crab Soup on the East Coast!
•Sat 4/5 Noon - 2:30 pm
•$30 plus fees
•31 Street Park
Virginia Beach Oceanfront
• beacheventsvb.com
Hunt Club Farm
Easter Egg Hunt & Spring Fling
Join the fun at our Children’s Egg Hunt with visits from the Easter Bunny. Enjoy costumed characters, a petting farm, and treewalk adventure. Take farm tour hayrides, dance to a live DJ, and explore our artisan and vendor village. Don’t miss out!
•Sat 4/19 & Sun 4/20 10 am - 5 pm
•$20 to $8 per person other fees may apply
•2388 London Bridge Road Virginia Beach, VA 23456
•huntclubfarm.com
April 2025
4/1April Fool’s Day 4/4 VB Public Schools - Staff Day 4/12Passover
4/144/18 VB Public Schools - Spring Break 4/15Tax Day 4/18Good Friday 4/20Easter Sunday 4/22Earth Day
All events are subject to change. For the most current info please check event website.
The arts mean business in the ViBe Creative District. More than 65 small businesses have moved into the arts district in the last ten years, generating an increase of $33.9 million gross sales annually and a net increase of $916,428 in yearly taxes over 2015 baseline figures from the Commissioner of the Revenue. Outdoor markets
and private redevelopment have spurred 203 new businesses licenses located in the district. Additionally, the 15-block area has seen real estate values increase by $56 million in the last decade, providing a significant return on investment to the City of Virginia Beach.
ViBe is a destination that stands for Virginia Beach—an authentic reflection of our creative
community. Last year, AAA’s national Traveler Magazine named Virginia Beach’s ViBe District as one of the “7 US Cities with the Best Street Art and Murals.” The streets, sidewalks, roads, fences and exterior walls are adorned with vibrant works of public art. Residents and visitors alike are welcome to enjoy the open-air museum for free, 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. In recognition of this revitalization effort, ViBe has been featured in over 1,000 earned media articles, TV segments, videos interviews, blogs and conferences.
Community partnerships are a key component to ViBe’s success. Partnering with more than 30 nonprofit organizations, the ViBe Creative District’s impact extends beyond the beach to schools, libraries, recreation centers, parks and more. From in-school murals at 18 Title I schools, to hundreds of Season for Nonviolence poetry and poster submissions by students city wide, ViBe partners closely with Virginia Beach schools on
RECORDS, TAPES & COMPACT DISCS
ViBe Neighborhood Identifier and Virginia Beach Convention Center
TALENT Murals at Best Value Hardware
multiple projects each year. In 2025, students and teachers from the city of Virginia Beach will help repaint 35 parking space murals for Paint the Parking Lot, a project first implemented in 2020. Cultural entities like Virginia Beach Art Center, Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art and the Virginia African American Cultural Center are natural collaborative partners. Working with VAACC and the Virginia Tourism Corporation, ViBe has added large outdoor murals to Franklin and Williamsburg.
Internationally, ViBe has partnered with the global creative speakers’ network, CreativeMornings to feature individuals working here in Coastal Virginia. Hosted monthly in The Garage VB, CreativeMornings Virginia Beach highlights diverse, creative entrepreneurs’ stories as a means to formally document the creative capital found here. Locally, the ViBe nonprofit contracts an average of 100 artists a year and has dedicated over $600,000 to artists stipends. These creatives often find additional work with ViBe’s small business community
and larger programming partners, from Something in the Water to Busch Gardens. Artists are an integral part of the creative economy in Virginia Beach, so much so that the City of Virginia Beach adopted dedicated funding sources to offer individual artists grants for the first time in 2025. This landmark funding speaks to a growing culture in Virginia Beach.
Development in Brazil—both in 2021. Within the Commonwealth of Virginia, ViBe has presented multiple times for the Virginia Commission for the Arts and other professional and alumni associations.
ViBe’s two signature events – ViBe Mural Festival started in 2018 and the VB Street Art Festival started in 2024 – generate the largest support from corporate sponsors. Companies like The Runnymede Corporation, LISC Hampton Roads, Norfolk Southern, TowneBank and Dominion Energy have supported the district in recent years. Likewise, dozens of individual donors contribute annually to support the ViBe Creative District.
“The ViBe has been an amazing, transformational organization for this entire neighborhood, and we are so proud to be a part of it,” said Garrett Berger of The Runnymede Corporation, a corporate sponsor of ViBe.
For the remainder of 2025, the ViBe Creative District will celebrate its 10 Year Anniversary with human interest stories from locals sharing how the district has impacted them, ViBe business deals, the inaugural
People outside of Virginia Beach who are unable to travel to see the murals and arts district can enjoy online photo albums via Facebook, artist feature videos via YouTube for each mural, and an online Google Mural Map that has reached more than 710,000+ views globally since it was created in 2017. ViBe’s significant online content drew attention from national and international professional conference planners – the ViBe nonprofit presented nationally at the ASLA Conference in Nashville and virtually at the International Conference on Creative Territories for Sustainable
sale of celebration pavers on 18th Street, and a fundraiser to create an endowment for sustainable funding into the future. The future continues to look bright as Atlantic Park, neighboring the ViBe Creative District, will also open in 2025. This landmark development, featuring an entertainment venue and worldclass surf lagoon, will further enhance the economic impact of the arts and culture in Virginia Beach.
Kate Pittman is the Executive Director for the ViBe Creative District. kate@vibecreativedistrict.org
OnieTonie Mural at the Virginia Beach Visitor Center
ViBe Walking Tour 2023
LOVE sign by Chesley DeLeon
Mural by Hamilton Glass 2022
Early Nesting Birds in Virginia Include Eagles, Ospreys, Great Horned Owls, and Bluebirds
Eagles nest as early as January in Virginia and usually have laid eggs by February to March with hatching in March to April. The great horned owl also nests in January and February in our area.
The Osprey migrates south in the fall but returns from their winter homes back to Virginia in March and April. Males usually arrive before the females to select
a nesting site. Ospreys tend to return to the same nest year after year. They build their nests along rivers, lakes and other waterways with large sticks and twigs. They will choose soft materials to line the center where the eggs are laid. The male collects most of the nesting materials while the female arranges it to her liking. They build their nest on top of
dead trees, power poles, and other man-made platforms. Ospreys tend to mate for life. Osprey eggs are cream-colored with reddish brown spots and blotches. Most young hatch in late May and the babies fledge at around 7- 8 weeks in mid-July. Adults begin to migrate to their wintering grounds once the fledglings become independent typically
in August and September. The fledglings leave a few weeks later.
Most birds wait to nest until the warmer months when insects are plentiful. This allows the babies to develop more quickly.
The earliest nesting birds such as eagles, ospreys and great horned owls do not rely on insects to feed their young. They fish and hunt
All photos by Nylia Laney
Male and female check out bluebird box for nesting. Bluebird eggs
Baby bluebirds - nine days old
Osprey parents at nest
Baby opreys
for their food which is available all year round.
Bluebirds typically start nesting in late February or early March in our area. My bluebirds laid their first egg last year on February 24th. So, it is time to get those bluebird nesting boxes cleaned out and put up. Place in an open area with a perch nearby. Having a nestbox specifically designed for bluebirds is recommended. The nesting box should be placed on a pole with a baffle to keep out predators. I like the boxes which open from
the side so that the bluebird babies can be monitored. It should have a plastic shield on the side so when the box is opened the babies cannot fly out. It is not recommended to put the nesting box on a tree as snakes, raccoons and other predators will have easy access to the baby bluebirds. The box generally should face east towards the sun and away from your house or any shaded area.
You may provide food such as mealworms or suet. Also, a birdbath will also attract bluebirds to your yard.
Bluebirds normally have 2-3 broods per year. They build cupshaped nests usually with pine needles. The eggs are light blue or white. The female incubates after all the eggs are laid. She usually lays one egg per day. The babies leave the nest after 17 to 21 days.
While you are watching and enjoying these beautiful birds begin their nest building you will notice other signs of spring such as flocks of robins, purple martins arriving and daffodils blooming. Birds’ colors will start
to change for some birds as the weather warms. Birds that were in flocks in the winter will start pairing off and becoming more vocal in defending their territory. Some of our winter birds will stay for a little while longer such as the yellow-rumped warblers aka the “butter butt”, the white throated sparrows and the ruby crowned kinglet that I have enjoyed all winter long.
Nylia Laney is a native of Virgnia Beach and enjoys nature photography.
Bluebird (22 days) getting ready to fledge.Adult female bluebird
Adult male bluebird
Osprey at nest
Osprey
First Colonial High School Boy’s Baseball 2025
3/18Kellam Away 4:00 PM
3/20Ocean Lakes Home4:00 PM
3/25 Cox Away 4:00 PM
3/27Salem Away 4:00 PM
4/1Princess Anne Away 4:00 PM
4/3Bayside Away 4:00 PM
4/4 Norfolk Academy Away 4:30 PM
4/8Kempsville
4/10Green Run Away 4:00 PM
4/14West JohnstonHome4:00 PM
4/15Grace ChristianHome1:00 PM
4/22Landstown Home4:00 PM 4/24Tallwood Home4:00 PM
5/1Ocean Lakes Away 4:00 PM
5/3Cape Henry CollegiateHome1:00 PM
5/6 Cox Home5:00 PM
5/8Tallwood Away 5:00 PM
5/12York Home4:30 PM
5/13Salem
5/20Bayside Home5:00 PM
5/22Kellam Home5:00 PM
Frank W. Cox High School Boy’s Baseball 2025
3/18Landstown Home4:00 PM
3/20Bayside Away 4:00 PM
3/22Gonzaga CollegeHome12:00 PM
3/25First Colonial Home4:00 PM
3/27Kellam Home4:00 PM
3/29St. Ignatius Home11:00 AM
4/1Ocean Lakes Away 4:00 PM
4/8Tallwood Away 4:00 PM
4/10Salem Away 4:00 PM
4/22Princess AnneHome4:00 PM
4/24Green Run Away 4:00 PM
4/25Cape Henry Collegiate Away 4:30 PM
4/29Kempsville
5/1Bayside Home4:00 PM
5/2Greenbrier Christian Away 6:00 PM
5/6First Colonial Away 5:00 PM
5/8Green Run Home5:00 PM
5/10Poquoson High Away 11:00 AM
5/13Kellam Away 5:00 PM
5/15Ocean Lakes Home5:00 PM
First Colonial High School Girl’s Softball 2025
3/18Kellam
3/20Ocean
3/21Deep
3/25
3/27Salem
3/31Norview
4/1Princess
4/3Bayside
4/1Ocean
4/22Princess
Away 4:00 PM
4/24Green Run Home7:00 PM
4/29Kempsville Away 5:30 PM
5/1Bayside Away 5:30 PM
5/6First ColonialHome5:30 PM
5/7Kempsville Home5:30 PM
5/8Green
CONNECT To CUSTOMERS IN YOUR AREA WITH The LOCAL SUN
All games are subject to change. For the most current info please check school website.
A Way Down South in Virginia Beach
By Al Chewning
Author/ Historian/ Storyteller
Al Chewning
The odds are pretty low that you’ve ever heard of Paul Green. However, if you’ve been to the Outer Banks of North Carolina, then the odds are much higher. Higher still if you’ve visited Manteo Island and witnessed the outdoor drama, The Lost Colony, the longestrunning outdoor, symphonic drama in the country.
Paul Green wrote The Lost Colony, and it opened on July 4, 1937, at the new Waterside Theatre, built solely for the historic production that is set in the days of the first English settlement in the New World. The show has run annually from May to August except in the 1940s (WWII) and 2020 (COVID).
Green wrote several other historical dramas that he wanted to be educational as well as entertaining. All of them were intended to be performed at, or near, the actual location where their stories took place. His play, The Common Glory, was performed in Williamsburg from 1947 until 1976. Another
of Green’s works, The Founders, was presented in Richmond for several years. These two shows became more meaningful because of these locations. So why did Green pick Virginia Beach for his production of The Confederacy?
Instead of a story about the Civil War, The Confederacy was a story of Confederate General Robert E. Lee told with the war in the background. Lee was born in Virginia, but there is nothing that indicates he was ever in Virginia Beach (then Princess Anne County). And there were no
battles here either.
In the spring of 1958, ground was cleared near the intersection of 24th St. and Birdneck Rd. For what would be named Robert E. Lee amphitheater. It was a simple, but large, open-air theater offering 1,700 aluminum folding chairs for the guests. Auditions were held, allowing the local folks the opportunity to play small parts in the drama. The major actors were brought in from all over the country and many had experience in Broadway and/or other professional productions.
While the cast and crew of over 100 actors, singers and dancers rehearsed, word of the upcoming presentation of The Confederacy spread. People requesting reservations received them written on the back of confederate $100 bills. It was estimated that 7.5 million dollars would be used in the first season.
The opening night ceremonies began early on the evening of July 2nd. Virginia’s governor, J. Lindsay Almond, hosted 600 guests from throughout Virginia and the tidewater area
Cast of The Confederacy. All images courtesy of Al Chewning
at a dinner, hosted by the new Virginia Beach Convention Center, later known as the “Dome”. WTAR radio provided live coverage of the event, as well as the entire first act of the production, which opened before a full house. The next day, newspapers from all over the country were singing the praises of The Confederacy. On the two following nights, the attendance was much lower but still drew a sizable audience of 500 each night.
And so, it went for the first
Brochure for The Confederacy
season. As you would expect in a new production, some mistakes were made, and lessons learned. It became apparent that some of the choreography did not work in a few places. A few scenes proved to be too busy and noisy, leaving the audience members confused and unable to hear the actors. Keep in mind that there were no microphones used in the show. The noise from the new jet fighters at the nearby air station didn’t help either.
The following year, none of the star actors returned, so local
BEACH HOME REPAIR
people were cast in all roles. In addition, several changes were made for the second season. The battle scenes were taken off-stage and performed in the surrounding woods, which the new audiences loved. Also, the choreography in the hospital scene was significantly changed and, as a result, it appeared in several reviews of the production.
Unfortunately, there were two issues that could not be improved upon. First, the amphitheater was located in the woods, not far from the City incinerator and the dump. When the wind was right, there were issues with smell and ashes. Secondly, the fact that the show started after sunset,
and because it was in the woods near the dump, the blood-thirsty mosquitoes were plentiful.
There was no third season. The property would be the location of another educational adventure when it was converted into an old west town called Frontier City. More on that later.
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
Images above taken during dress rehearsal
Managing Stress in Stressful Times
By Adelia Gregoire, Psy.D. Contributor
Research is confirming what we already know. We are living in stressful times. Learning how to manage stress is vital to us physically, emotionally and mentally. Let’s consider how to mitigate stress at each of these levels.
Mentally
One of the most important points of intervention is with our thoughts. A powerful tool we have in managing stress is our perspective. Counterintuitively, one of the first steps in managing stress is an attitude of acceptance. Understand that stress, as unwelcome as it may be, is an inherent part of life. Stress levels often have less to do with an actual stressor than with how one approaches and thinks about that stressor. Pay attention to your internal narrative. What are you telling yourself about your life, the world, others in the world? Is it overly negative? Are you
inadvertently reinforcing false thoughts? We all have thoughts that lie to us about ourselves, our circumstances and our abilities. To manage stress you need to discern between fear-driven thoughts and those based in the reality of the situation. Stress can keep us in the amygdala, the emotional part of our brain and out of the prefrontal cortex, the problemsolving part of the brain. By examining your thoughts and perspective you activate the part of your brain that will help you formulate a plan of action.
Emotionally
Stress often produces emotional dysregulation. Connecting with others can restore a sense of calm. The need for social support is hardwired into our DNA. In times of stress, the vast
majority of us look to others for guidance, information, and understanding. So consider time connecting with friends as an important stress management tool. Another effective tool that can help with emotional regulation is visualization. Imagine a calm place such as a beach or a meadow. Involve all of your senses by recreating in your mind the sights, sounds, smells, and textures. Other things that you can do to fortify emotional regulation are to listen to calming music, avoid watching stressful media, avoid being around others who add to your stress, learn how to say no to obligations that are not necessary or beneficial to you.
Physically
Gregoire, Psy.D. is a Licensed Clincal Psychologist with Community Psychological Resources in Norfolk Virginia.
The parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for calm and relaxation in the body. The most efficient way to activate it is the practice of deep breathing. To calm your body, take a deep, slow breath through your diaphragm, hold it and slowly exhale while visualizing the tension leaving your body. Ultimately, the best stress management tool is a healthy lifestyle that includes exercise, healthy eating, good sleep hygiene and a regular mindfulness or meditation practice. No one can avoid stress altogether, but with the right attitude and behavior, you can find a sense of well-being even in the midst of highly stressful times.
Adelia Gregoire
Adelia
Did someone use your SSN to file taxes?
Here’s what to do
If you’re filing your taxes online this year, watch for signs of tax identity theft, like someone using your Social Security number (SSN) to file and claim a tax refund. One way you’ll know is if the IRS rejects your tax return once you file. Learn to protect yourself while filing online and what to do if someone steals your tax refund.
If you use tax preparation software like TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxAct, or TaxSlayer, protect your accounts by using two-factor authentication. Requiring two or more credentials to log in makes it harder for scammers to get into your account, even if they get your username and password. And always file early, if you can — before anyone else files using your
personal information.
But even if you’re careful, someone might still use your SSN to steal your refund. Now, if the IRS rejects the tax return you submitted online or through a tax preparer, it could just mean missing or incorrect information. But if the IRS says there’s more than one tax return filed in your
name or they see income from an employer you know you don’t work for, that’s identity theft. Don’t panic — but do act quickly to communicate with the IRS.
Here’s how:
1. Report it to IdentityTheft. gov using as many details as possible. The site will create an FTC Identity Theft Report, an
IRS Identity Theft Affidavit, and a personal recovery plan.
2. Submit your IRS Identity Theft Affidavit through IdentityTheft. gov. This tells the IRS to begin investigating your case. Or get the Identity Theft Affidavit (IRS Form 14039) and submit it by mail.
3. Follow the steps in your personal recovery plan — like freezing your credit and checking your credit reports — to limit the damage identity theft causes.
Share IdentityTheft.gov/Steps with friends and loved ones to help them protect their personal information and stay ahead of identity thieves.
Used with permission from FTC
Unlock the Fun with Friends, Families, and Co-workers
The 5-Letter code* to enter at checkout for 10% off a private booking is found within this ad!
*Hint: Find the hidden red letters. **(Adj.) belonging or relating to a particular area or neighborhood
Osprey eatng a fish, yellow-rumped warbler & Baltimore Oriole. Photos by Nylia Laney
CABINETS WITH FLAIR
Designed
Senior Decisions: Where do I go? What about the family pet?
By Mark A. Rusnak Contributor
Mark A. Rusnak
In the first stages of the counseling session, we may have already answered this
question, if not we provide various alternatives.
Family: We always consider the remaining Family. Are they Local, or do you need, or want to relocate to be closer to them. Be it for assistance, or just the convenience and visitations.
Remain in Home: For the senior client wanting to remain in the family home, we can suggest various stages of home
health care givers provide minimal, once or twice a week, to full service 12 or 24 hour care.
There are several stages of Senior Housing Available to us in Hampton Roads, form the Independent living senior centers, to full service and care seniors centers.
Downsize: For the seniors who choose to downsize we can offer various options, from the carefree condo living, where you can be “Turn Key” and on you way South for the winter, or just heading to the Golf Course, or family outing.
There is also the Townhome option. Similar to a single family home where you still own your own yard, and do some exterior maintenance,
however on a much smaller scale. We have also been fortunate here in Hampton Roads to have various options on townhomes & condo with garages.
Rental: Do you own a rental property you can move into for a couple of years, so you can claim it as your primary residence, and then sell it without having to pay the capital gains? If not, buy one now, and plan on retiring there in the upcoming years. Use it as a stepping stone to get you towards your retirement dream.
As you can tell by the depths of this process, it is probing into several layers of the client’s mind, and is more than most people can absorb in one meeting, let alone make any decisions on so quickly. It is not a one meeting session, where we expect answers. It is an ongoing process that can
sometimes take months to sort out.
So, if you are in the position to be considering a change in your housing or current living conditions, or if you just to want to start planning for the ultimate change, you should have a financial counseling session with a Seniors Real Estate Specialist.
Your current home may very well be the biggest investment you have ever made in your life, and it could also be the most valuable asset you have, so be cautious and consider all your options, so that you can make an informed & educated decision that is best for your personal situation.
Mark A. Rusnak is an Associate Broker, ABR and Seniors Real Estate Specialist with RE/MAX Allegiance. 757-718-8865, 757-490-7300 x. 305
Four ways to avoid scams after a weather-related disaster
Whenever severe weather strikes — blizzards, heavy winds, or the recent devastating fires in Los Angeles — you can bet scammers are following the news to target people affected. So, how do you protect yourself against weather-related scams?
Weather-related disasters mean big bucks for scammers. They’ll appear right after an emergency and offer to get your power back on, make essential repairs, or help with whatever you need. But if you pay them, they’ll take your money and disappear, charge you for things you don’t need, or leave before completing the work you paid them to do.
It’s hard to anticipate the damage a weather emergency
can cause. Here are four ways to avoid the weather-related scams.
• Spot utility imposter scams. Utility imposters work yearround, but after a weather emergency, they might call or knock on your door saying they need to repair or replace equipment. Then they’ll ask you to pay. Don’t give
them money. But do ask for identification and verify who you’re dealing with.
• Hire only contractors who are licensed and insured. Check with your state or county government to confirm a contractor’s license. Ask the contractor for proof of insurance and get a written contract.
• Never pay for repairs or debris removal in cash. Paying by credit card offers you some protections. And only pay in full after the work is done and you’re satisfied with it.
• Read about other weatherrelated scams at ftc.gov/ WeatherEmergencies. Then share the information with friends and family to help them avoid losing money, too.
Suspect a scam? Tell the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
A Challenging Variety Of Golf Courses
Fake check scam targets online car sellers
Are you selling a car online? If so, know that scammers may target you. They’ll pretend to be a buyer and try to trick you into sending them money. Here’s how the scam works.
It starts with a message from someone who says they’re interested in buying your car. They say they aren’t local and can’t look at it in person. Next, they’ll send you a check as a deposit to hold the car. But the check they send is for more than you expected. The “buyer” says they “accidentally” overpaid and asks you to send the extra money back. But if you do, the buyer and the money will be gone because every bit of this was a lie.
The fake check looks real, and the funds may even show up in your bank account after you deposit it. But it can take the
bank weeks to figure out that the check was fake — and when they do, they’ll take the money back. So if you sent money to the scammer, you’ll have to repay the bank, too. Here’s what to know:
• Don’t accept a check for more than the selling price. If someone sends you a check for more than the selling price and asks you to send money back to them, it’s a scam.
• Never send money to anyone
who says they overpaid you by check. Never use money from a check to send gift cards, money orders, cryptocurrency or to wire money to anyone who asks you to. Once you do, it’s like you’ve given them cash. It’s hard to get it back.
Only scammers will tell you to buy a gift card, like a Google Play or Apple Card, and give them the numbers off the back of the card. No matter what they say, that’s a scam. No real business or government agency will ever
tell you to buy a gift card to pay them. Always keep a copy of your gift card and store receipt. Use them to report gift card scams to the gift card company and ask for your money back.
Scammers pressure you to wire money to them because it’s easy to take your money and disappear. Wiring money with services like MoneyGram, Ria, and Western Union is like sending cash — once you send it, you usually can’t get it back. Never wire money to anyone you haven’t met in person — no matter the reason they give.
• Consider using an escrow or online payment service when you sell a car online.
If you spot a fake check scam, tell the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc. gov.
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Treatment options for dogs and cats with arthritis
By Dr. Melissa McKendry Contributor
The veterinary field has witnessed a significant advances in osteoarthritis treatment with
the introduction of Librela (Bedinvetmab) for dogs and Solensia (Frunevetmab) for cats. These monoclonal antibody treatments, developed by Zoetis, represent a novel approach to managing chronic pain associated with osteoarthritis in companion animals.
When these treatments first became available, I was very reluctant to use them but over time I have witnessed animals that were truly suffering gain a new lease on life. One case in particular, was a 13-year-old Golden retriever where the owner was considering euthanasia because the dog was unable to get up to go outside. Two months after receiving Librela injections she easily got up on her own and wandered around the yard like she had years earlier.
Understanding the Technology
Both Librela and Solensia work by targeting the Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), a key player in pain signaling and inflammation. These
medications are species-specific monoclonal antibodies:
• Librela (Bedinvetmab) is specifically designed for dogs
• Solensia (Frunevetmab) is tailored for cats
Advantages
Extended Duration of Action
• Monthly administration provides sustained pain relief
• Reduces the need for daily medication administration
• Improves compliance compared to daily oral medications
Safety Profile
• Excellent real-world safety record in clinical practice
• As with all medications, serious adverse reactions are possible but are not commonly observed
• No direct impact on kidney or liver function, making it particularly valuable for geriatric patients
• Can be used in patients with organ dysfunction where NSAIDs might be contraindicated
• Demonstrates remarkable tolerability when used alongside other medications
• Clinical experience shows consistent positive outcomes, particularly in older dogs with moderate to severe arthritis
• Transformative improvements in mobility and quality of life frequently observed in practice
Efficacy
• Demonstrated significant improvement in mobility and quality of life
• Provides consistent pain relief throughout the treatment period
• Shows results within days of administration
• May help reduce the need for concurrent pain medications
Disadvantages
Cost Considerations
• Higher upfront monthly cost compared to traditional medications
• Long-term financial commitment for ongoing treatment
• May not be covered by all pet insurance plans
Treatment Limitations
• Not suitable for acute pain conditions or neurologic diseases
• May take several days to reach full effectiveness
• Cannot be self-administered at home
• May not be effective for all patients
Practical Considerations
• Regular monthly treatments needed for continued benefits
• Initial cost considerations should be weighed against consistent positive outcomes
• Growing body of positive realworld evidence supporting
long-term safety and efficacy
• Particularly effective in moderate to severe cases where traditional treatments may have limited success
Best Candidates for Treatment
• Older pets with chronic osteoarthritis
• Patients who cannot tolerate NSAIDs
• Animals with concurrent medical conditions
Conclusion
Librela and Solensia represent significant innovations in veterinary pain management, offering new options for pets suffering from osteoarthritis. While they present certain advantages in terms of efficacy and convenience, considerations such as cost and availability need to be carefully weighed. The decision to use these treatments should be made on a case-bycase basis but from my personal experience they truly improve the quality of life in many dogs and cats with arthritis.
Dr. McKendry is board certified for the Diplomate American Board of Veterinary Practiioners (Canine and Feline) & owner of Mobile Pet Doc in Virginia Beach. She can be reached at mobilepetdoc.com and 757-617-1243
Dr. Mckendry
Converting your primary residence into a rental property
By Gary Layne Contributor
For years, homeowners looking to move would simply list their houses for sale. However, market conditions sometimes forced those without sufficient equity to rent their homes, becoming “accidental landlords.” Recently, a shift in mindset has emerged. Homeowners who secured low-interest rates over the past several years are now in a unique position. These low rates and affordable monthly payments have made it feasible to rent out homes, creating cash flow and transforming primary residences into powerful investment platforms. Rather than selling,
many homeowners are choosing to hold their properties longterm.
This shift represents a significant change in perspective—viewing one’s home not just as a place of residence but as an investment opportunity. However, making the leap from homeowner to landlord requires thoughtful planning, a strategic approach, and an investor mindset to maximize financial gains and manage landlord responsibilities effectively.
1. Adopting an Investor’s Mindset
Transitioning from homeowner to investor means recognizing your property’s potential as a source of income. Instead of focusing solely on comfort and aesthetics, consider your home as a business asset. This perspective requires evaluating the property’s financial viability and rental
income potential. Renovations and Improvements: When preparing your property for rental, avoid over-improvements. Focus on practical updates that will boost rentability and tenant satisfaction without excessive costs. Remember, every decision should serve your investment strategy.
2. Taking On Landlord Responsibilities
Becoming a landlord means additional responsibilities. Tasks like finding tenants, managing rental agreements, handling maintenance, and ensuring
Gary Layne
compliance with local, state, and federal housing laws all demand your time and attention. Being proactive in managing tenant relationships and property maintenance can safeguard your investment and keep your property in top condition.
3. Financial Planning for LongTerm Success
Owning rental property can diversify your investment portfolio, providing a steady cash flow and the potential for property appreciation. As you transition to an investor mindset, it’s crucial to adapt your financial planning. Consider:
• Rental Income Projections: Calculate expected monthly rental income and compare it to expenses, including mortgage, maintenance, and property management fees.
• Property Appreciation: Monitor market trends to understand your property’s potential for appreciation.
• Tax Implications: Consult a tax professional to understand the tax benefits and obligations of owning a rental property.
4. Leveraging Equity for Growth
Converting your primary residence into a rental offers an opportunity to leverage your existing equity. Options like refinancing or obtaining a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) can free up funds for additional real estate investments or other ventures. This strategy allows you to use your property’s value to create flexibility and liquidity for future investment opportunities.
Key Takeaways:
• Adopt a Business-Oriented Approach to maximize your property’s rental potential.
• Take on the Role of a Responsible Landlord by maintaining the property and handling tenant relationships proactively.
• Plan Your Finances Wisely, considering rental income, property appreciation, and tax benefits.
• Leverage Your Home’s Equity for further investment opportunities.
Ready to Make the Jump?
Converting your home into a rental property can be a lucrative investment decision. With the
careful planning, and professional support, you can build wealth and secure your financial future.
Do You Know: Saint Patrick’s Day
Originally the holiday was to honor St. Patrick, who introduced Christianity to Ireland in the 5th Century later evolving into a celebration of all things Irish. The world’s first St. Patrick’s Day parade occurred on March 17, 1762, in New York City. In 1991 Congress proclaimed March as Irish – American Heritage Month.
In 1762, the New York City parade featured Irish soldiers serving in the English military. This parade became an annual event, with President Truman attending in 1948.
22.8%
Percentage of the Boston metropolitan area population that claimed Irish ancestry, the highest percentage among the 50 most populous metro areas. Boston is home to the Celtics.
31.5 million & 9.5% The number and percentage of U.S. residents who claimed Irish ancestry in 2021.
Chicago dyes its river green and has done so since 1962 when sewer workers used green dye to check for sewer discharges and had the idea to turn the river green for Saint Patrick’s Day. Originally 100 pounds of vegetable dye was used to turn the river green for a whole week but now only forty pounds of dye is used and the color only lasts for several hours. Wikipedia.org
Irish-American Presidents
When it comes to U.S. presidents, exactly half trace some of their roots to Ireland, including:
• Theodore Roosevelt
• Barack Obama
• George W. Bush
• Joe Biden
• John F. Kennedy
• Ronald Reagan
Places with the Luckiest Names
• Dublin city, California
• Clover town, South Carolina
• Emerald Isle town, North Carolina
• Shamrock city, Texas
