Interest rates on personal loans have steadily increased since early 2022, coinciding with the Federal Reserve’s efforts to curb inflation by raising the federal funds rate.

But anticipated Fed rate cuts before the end of this year may not bring personal loan rates down right away.

“Typically, we don’t see personal loan rates drop as a result of those rates dropping,” said Jean Hopkins, director of consumer lending at WeStreet Credit Union in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Changes to the federal funds rate have a greater impact on variable-rate credit products, such as credit cards or home equity lines of credit, she said. Personal loan rates, on the other hand, are driven by larger economic factors, such as inflation and unemployment.

Your exact personal loan rate is most influenced by your creditworthiness and income. If you’re planning to borrow this year, here are a few things you can do to get a low rate on a personal loan.

Maintain a high credit score

Lenders rely heavily on credit scores to determine how likely an applicant is to repay a loan. Generally, those with high scores get the lowest rates.

“If you have a high credit score, banks think that you’re a good risk to take,” says Spencer Betts, certified financial planner at Massachusetts-based Bickling Financial Services.

He says borrowers should check their credit report before applying for a personal loan and take note of any past-due credit accounts or accounts you don’t recognize, which could indicate identity theft.

You can access free weekly credit reports at AnnualCreditReport.com.

Potential borrowers looking to maintain or boost their credit scores should make on-time payments toward credit cards and other loans, Hopkins says, because payment history is the most important factor in your credit score calculation. She also says borrowers should maintain a low credit utilization, which is the percentage of available credit you’ve used on revolving accounts like credit cards.

“Make sure if you’re borrowing money on credit cards that you’re not borrowing more than, say, 30% or 40% of your balance on that line of credit,” she says.

Keep a low debt-to-income ratio

Another factor lenders consider when underwriting a personal loan is the percentage of your monthly income that goes toward debt payments.

“You want to make sure your debt-to-income ratio is low,” says Jen Hemphill, a Kansas-based accredited financial counselor and host of the Her Dinero Matters podcast. “The lower it is, you’re going to have a better chance of a lower interest rate.”

Debt-to-income ratio, or DTI, is calculated by dividing your total monthly debt payments by your monthly income. Multiply that figure by 100 to get the ratio expressed as a percentage. Hemphill suggests keeping your DTI around 30% or less, though some lenders will accept higher ratios.

If your DTI is high, consider paying down debt before applying for a personal loan for a chance at a better rate.

Hopkins suggests paying off smaller debts first to quickly eliminate those monthly payments and consequently lower your DTI.

Raising your income — which would also lower your DTI — may be a difficult task, but be sure to include all sources of income on a loan application. Many lenders count alimony, child support and Social Security payments when calculating DTI. You might even be able to include a partner’s salary as household income.

Compare offers to find the best deal

When you’re preparing to apply for a personal loan, it pays to compare offers from multiple lenders. Each lender has its own qualification requirements and underwriting process, so you could get a different APR from one lender to the next.

You can compare costs by pre-qualifying online. This process lets you preview your potential APR, monthly payment, loan amount and repayment term with only a soft credit pull, so your credit scores won’t be affected.

Pre-qualifying gives you “an idea of what interest rates are available for you based on your own situation,” Hemphill says. “That helps you shop around.”

She suggests paying special attention to the repayment terms you’re offered and how they affect the amount of interest you’ll pay over the life of the loan. Long terms may be appealing because they lower your monthly payment, she says, but they increase the total cost of the loan.

You can use a personal loan calculator to see how the given loan amount, term and interest rate affect monthly payments and interest costs.

If you have two competitive loan offers, compare perks and features to determine which is the right fit for your plans, Hemphill says. For example, some lenders provide a rate discount for setting up autopay or for having the lender directly pay off your other debts when you get a debt consolidation loan. Others may provide credit-building assistance so you can boost your score while you repay the loan.

Nicole Dow writes for NerdWallet. Email: articles@nerdwallet.com.

The article How to Score a Low Personal Loan Rate in 2024 originally appeared on NerdWallet.

The hardwood flooring retailer formerly known as Lumber Liquidators signed an agreement with private equity firm F9 Investments for a sale of its business on Friday afternoon. Under terms of the deal, expected to close by the end of September, F9 will acquire 219 stores and a Virginia distribution center — as well as LL Flooring’s intellectual property and other assets.

Another 211 LL Flooring stores are still set to close, however. That includes 117 locations where closings were recently initiated and 94 others that were already in the process when the Virginia company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Aug. 11.

Just weeks after filing for Chapter 11, LL Flooring previously said that it would be “winding down operations” and closing all of its stores after failing to find a buyer in negotiations. The retailer expected the process to take about 12 weeks.

But that changed after a deal was reached with F9 on Friday. In a statement, LL Flooring president and CEO Charles Tyson said that company was “pleased to have reached this agreement” with F9 “following significant efforts by our team and advisors to preserve the business.”

Tyson added that LL Flooring remains “committed to continuing to serve” customers and vendors as the transaction moves through bankruptcy court for approval.

F9, based in Miami, is owned by Tom Sullivan, who founded Lumber Liquidators over 30 years ago. Sullivan told The Associated Press that the 219 stores set to be purchased by F9 will open under the Lumber Liquidators name again.

“We’ll be getting back to basics,” Sullivan said. “Basically, yellow and black is coming back … We know what worked before. It’s not fancy offices in Richmond with 200 people that didn’t know the flooring business. It’s great people in our stores that know flooring (and) customers that want a great deal and know Lumber Liquidators is the place to go.”

Sullivan explained that the company plans to narrow down to a more “manageable” selection of flooring options, and getting rid of material that feels duplicative or doesn’t sell well, so customers will likely see big discounts on much of the inventory left behind from LL Flooring’s bankruptcy process. He added that the company will be closely aligned with Cabinets To Go, another F-9 owned brand that he founded, to help with shipping efficiency.

Lumber Liquidators got its start in 1993, as a modest operation in Massachusetts, and later expanded operations nationwide. The brick-and-mortar retailer officially changed its name to LL Flooring at the start of 2022.

The company previously faced turmoil after a 2015 segment of “60 Minutes” reported that laminate flooring it was selling had illegal and dangerous levels of formaldehyde. Lumber Liquidators later said it would stop selling the product and agreed to pay $36 million to settle two class-action lawsuits in 2017.

LL Flooring has had difficulty turning a profit in recent years. Net sales fell 18.5% in 2023, according to a recent earnings report, amid declines in foot traffic and weak demand with mortgage rates and housing prices high. In its Chapter 11 filing, LL Flooring disclosed that total debts amounted to more than $416 million as of July 31, compared with assets of just over $501 million.

Ahead of filing for bankruptcy, LL Flooring also entered a proxy battle over the summer — centered on attempts to keep Sullivan, who had tried to acquire the business before, off the board. In June, company leadership wrote a letter urging shareholders to vote for other nominees, accusing Sullivan of “pushing a personal agenda.” But LL Flooring later confirmed that the founder and F9’s other nominees were elected at its annual shareholder meeting in July.

The Hispanic fusion restaurant opened in June by economist Marilyn Castro, a Puerto Rico native, who wanted to jazz up the morning scene and provide jobs for people.

The menu ranges from omelets to pancakes and waffles, to a burrito and a quesadilla made with a choice of protein. Dishes showcase ingredients such as Argentinian sausage, sweet potatoes and Mallorca bread, a sweet bun originating in Mallorca (Majorca), Spain’s Balearic Islands. Castro gets the bread imported from Puerto Rico but creates every recipe. The restaurant also serves nine types of mimosas, including horchata, tamarind and guava.

I dined at one of the six tables on my visits.

The appetizers are a must-have. I tried three on two occasions and I loved them all. My favorite is the egg and sausage empanada ($4.50). I could eat one or two every day. It was fried golden, packed with protein and didn’t weigh the belly down. Pastry perfection.

The Cuban egg roll ($7) pulled up next with flavor from the sandwich’s ingredients. It was cheesy from the Swiss, savory from the ham and tangy from the pickles. The shape, however, was thinner and longer than a traditional roll nor did it have the same crispy texture. I still loved it. Kudos to the chef.

I let out an “ooh” when the Mallorca bread loaded with Bavarian cream ($7) arrived. Lots of smooth cream sat in the middle of thick and fluffy bread. It was decadent, not too sweet and paired well with tea.

The breakfast burrito ($14) and fries also made a great duo. I’m glad they came on the side because my biggest complaint about burritos is the often unseasoned and undercooked potatoes on the inside. The burrito had fluffy scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese, pico de gallo and my choice of protein, which was bacon. Each mouthful contained a full breakfast entrée. I plan to get this again. Delicious.

The pork chop and creamy waffle meal ($15) were fantastic too. It came with a choice of coconut, spicy or regular syrup. I selected spicy. Juice oozed as I cut into the fried meat. I liked the seasoning but it was a little too salty. I dipped my fork in syrup but it was too spicy. I asked for regular and it did the trick. The sweetness gave the dish more balance. I snarfed on the pork chop down to the bone. The crispy waffle had a fluffy interior like it was supposed to. No complaints.

Customers could also get the sweet potato waffle which I highly recommend. No syrup is required just the greatness of the vegetable in a cake batter. 

I wrapped up my stay with a pina colada sangria ($9) and I was feeling good after a few sips. It was prepared with white wine and still had a fruity-creamy consistency. I never imagined these two getting together — talk about late to the party.

Breakfast was the best meal of the day.

Rekaya Gibson, 757-295-8809, rekaya.gibson@virginiamedia.com; on X, @gibsonrekaya

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If you go

Where: 2720 North Mall Drive, Virginia Beach

Hours: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday

Prices: $4 to $11 appetizers, $12 to $15 entrees, $9 mimosas and sangria

Details: 757-904-5561; https://breakfastbarva.com

DETROIT (AP) — The U.S. government’s road safety agency wants the auto industry to design new vehicles including increasingly large SUVs and pickup trucks so they reduce pedestrian deaths and injuries.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said Monday that for the first time it’s proposing a new rule setting testing and performance requirements to minimize the risk of pedestrian head injuries.

The rule would cover all passenger vehicles weighing 10,000 pounds or less, but it’s is aimed largely at big SUVs and pickups, which have grown in size and hood height over the years, causing blind spots for drivers.

NHTSA said pedestrian deaths increased 57% from 2013 to 2022, from 4,779 to 7,522. The agency says the rule would save 67 lives per year.

Data show that nearly half of all pedestrian deaths when hit by the front of a vehicle are most common for SUVs and trucks.

The proposed rule, required by Congress in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, would set test procedures to simulate head-to-hood impact as well as requirements to reduce the risk of head injuries. Human-like head dummies that simulate children and adults would be used in testing, NHTSA said in a prepared statement.

“We have a crisis of roadway deaths, and it’s even worse among vulnerable road users like pedestrians,” NHTSA Deputy Administrator Sophie Shulman said in the statement. “This proposed rule will ensure that vehicles will be designed to protect those inside and outside from serious injury or death.”

Messages were left Monday seeking comment from automakers and the industry’s main trade association.

The infrastructure law required NHTSA to make U.S. regulations match a global pedestrian safety rule, with a regulation that would focus on vehicles made uniquely for the U.S. market.

Through August, SUVs and trucks of all sizes accounted for almost 79% of new vehicles sales in the U.S., according to Motorintelligence.com.

Last year, an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety study found that vehicles with higher, more vertical front ends raise risks for pedestrians. The research arm of the insurance industry found that pickups, SUVs and vans with a hood height greater than 40 inches are about 45% more likely to cause deaths in pedestrian crashes than cars and other vehicles with a hood height of 30 inches or less and a sloping profile.

The authors also questioned whether wider pillars holding up roofs of the larger vehicles make it harder for drivers to spot people walking near the corners of vehicles.

Consumer Reports found in 2021 that elevated vehicle hoods also obstructed driver views of pedestrians crossing before them.

The magazine and website found that pickup truck hood heights have risen 11% since 2000. The hood of a 2017 Ford F-250 heavy-duty pickup was 55 inches off the ground, as tall as the roofs of some cars.

Consumer Reports said it measured visibility for 15 new vehicles, including full-size trucks. Due to height and long hoods, it found that front blind spots in some trucks were 11 feet longer than some sedans and 7 feet longer than many popular SUVs.

Automakers and the public can comment on the proposal for 60 days, after which NHTSA will draw up a final regulation.

The Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art announced new board members for the fiscal year beginning July 1. The new executive board includes chair, Bruce Berlin, managing partner, Venture Realty Group; vice chair, Susan Cohen, partner, Spring Oak Associates; secretary, Connie O’Brien, senior vice president, marketing and digital operations, PRA; treasurer, Nick Louridas, senior client associate, Wells Fargo Advisors; past chair, Nicole Naidyhorski, marketing director, Kaufman & Canoles; at large, Jeff Fine, vice president of production, WHRO Public Media; at large, Scott Duncan, retired senior vice president /general manager, The Capital Group Cos.; and at large, Anne Fleder, community volunteer. New board trustees include Virginia “Ginny” Fogg, retired general counsel for Norfolk Southern Corp.; Dr. Cassandra Newby-Alexander, endowed professor of Virginia Black history and culture, Norfolk State University; and Kim McCoy Webb, experienced professional, artist and student.

The Virginia Association of Planning District Commissions elected members to its board of directors for another one-year term, including Robert Crum of Hampton Roads Planning District Commission.

Tyler Johnson of Gloucester has been named president of the Virginia Ready Mixed Concrete Association’s board of directors.

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Awards and honors

Amazon selected Cindy Degnan, a computer science teacher at Deep Creek Elementary and Indian River Middle School in Chesapeake, among hundreds of eligible teachers for the Amazon Future Engineer Teacher Ambassador Program. As one of only 50 educators nationwide chosen for this two-year paid fellowship, Degnan of Portsmouth will play a vital role in helping scale computer science equity in her local community and serve as a model for what can be done across the country. One of her first major projects will be to conduct a local listening tour, engaging with students, parents, educators, and community leaders to understand the barriers and challenges they face in STEM and computer science education. This understanding will help shape the future of computer science curricula. She will also pilot innovative instructional strategies for teaching computer science in the classroom and receive professional development training opportunities. Additionally, she will connect with a nationwide network of like-minded science, technology, engineering and math educators to share best practices. “I am completing my 24th year in public education, and I would say that my father is responsible for my love of computer science and technology,” Degnan said. “I hope to instill in my students the same love for technology that my father instilled in me. I want them to see how technology will be an important part of any job they hold in the future.”

The Virginia Health Care Association-Virginia Center for Assisted Living announced that Virginia Health Services President and CEO Mark Klyczek was selected by the American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living as a future leader in long-term and post-acute care. Klyczek will participate in AHCA/NCAL’s Future Leaders program, which provides year-long training and mentorship for professionals in long-term and post-acute care. He is one of 39 participants selected nationwide. Klyczek has more than 25 years of health care experience. He started with VHS in January 2020. Under his leadership, VHS established a registered apprenticeship program, opened a Dialysis Den in partnership with DaVita at Coliseum Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Hampton and improved quality care scores.

Williamsburg Landing announced the renewal of its five-year CARF Accreditation. It is among only 12-15% of Life Plan Communities to achieve this certification, and the first accredited Life Plan Community in the region. CARF, founded in 1966 as the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, is an independent, nonprofit accrediting body that establishes consumer-focused standards to help organizations measure and improve the quality of their programs and services. Williamsburg Landing provides independent living, assisted living, memory support, Namaste, short- and long-term nursing and adult day services.

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Grants and donations

In August, U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott delivered $1 million in community project funding from federal appropriations to the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank. The funding will be used to expand cold storage capacity by building a second, smaller warehouse location to store produce and lean meats. These are among the most nutritious foods and are often least affordable for food insecure families. This funding will enable the Foodbank and its partner agencies to continue providing nutritious fruits, vegetables and lean proteins to the more than 61,000 individuals across the greater Virginia Peninsula that are chronically food insecure. The expanded storage will also save the Foodbank significant expenses in private external storage costs and will allow the organization to receive more donated produce items that currently may be declined due to space constraints.

Last year, Williamsburg Multiple Listing Service contributed $7,000 to the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank in support of its Backpack Program. More than 50,000 Food for Kids Backpack program bags were delivered to 35 schools across our community, including five in Williamsburg/James City County. This summer, the program has been providing up to 900 breakfast and lunch meals during the weekday for kids who attended summer camps, church programs and YMCAs.

Columbia Gas of Virginia distributed grants of about $1,500 to nearly 30 volunteer fire departments across the commonwealth, including Carrollton and Smithfield volunteer fire departments.

The Virginia Aviation Board, at its quarterly meeting on Aug. 9, awarded about $9.6 million for 28 projects at 19 airports across the commonwealth. The funding includes more than $1.2 million to Chesapeake Regional Airport for south apron rehabilitation construction, $2,900 to Hampton Roads Executive Airport for a spill prevention control plan update and $62,000 to Suffolk Executive Airport for three-phase power.

The ViBe Creative District was awarded a general operating grant from the Virginia Commission for the Arts for this fiscal year. The ViBe nonprofit is the private operational partner to the city of Virginia Beach’s arts district that fundraises to meet and exceed city investment in the district. Commission funding supports ViBe’s year-round programming and events, all offered free and open to the public.

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Opening

Cava opened on Aug. 16 at 2808 Sabre St. in Virginia Beach’s Lynnhaven neighborhood. The fast-casual restaurant chain serves Mediterranean-inspired bowls, pitas, dips, and dressings. The restaurant employs 30-35 workers.

Darla’s Downtown Boutique opened on Aug. 10 at 126 N. Main St. in downtown Suffolk. The shop sells women’s clothing, jewelry, home and gift items. Its inventory includes a wide variety of items, ranging from clothes for women, teens and tweens to candles and teacher gifts. Learn more at darlasdowntown.com.

Blessed Hands Florist, a floral and retail merchandise shop that expanded from a home-based operation, opened at 150 W. Washington St., Suite E, in downtown Suffolk on Aug. 10. The shop, owned by Shameka Council, offers a unique and affordable selection of customized floral arrangements and retail merchandise, including shirts and cups. The inspiration for this business came from a deeply personal experience when Council’s cousin, Antonio Gates, died in 2013 and motivated her to create meaningful floral arrangements for funerals. Council plans to offer tutorial lessons for arts and crafts during holidays. For more information, contact 757-742-3797.

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Partnership

Chesapeake-based INIT entered a five-year partnership with Seattle-based King County Metro to enhance the efficiency and reliability of its electric fleet operations. INIT will provide provide an advanced vehicle health monitoring system and smart charge management system from CarMedialab, a member of the INIT Group. The cloud-based technologies will be conveyed across an initial 45 battery-powered electric buses and trolleybuses, eventually extending to a total of 500 battery electric coaches and 174 trolleys over the contract term.

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Remodel

The Walmart Neighborhood Market at 11214 Jefferson Ave. in Newport News celebrated a remodel, designed to improve and modernize the customer shopping experience. Aisle locations changed for a simpler experience and signage throughout the store was updated to increase visibility and access. The remodel included an expanded online grocery department, relocation of the bakery department to the front of the store and an expanded pharmacy department with a new two-lane drive-thru for pharmacy customers. The store presented grants to local nonprofit organizations, including Peninsula Rescue Mission, Habitat for Humanity, Thrive Peninsula, Bridging Gaps for Heroes and Enduring Keys.

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Workforce development

The Regional Maritime Training System, led by the Hampton Roads Workforce Council, participated in the NASCAR race weekend at Richmond Raceway on Aug. 10-11 to spotlight career opportunities available in the maritime industry. It also recognized Eamon Kane, a recent graduate of a 90-day welding internship at Q.E.D. Systems Inc., a partner of the training system. Tidewater Community College also partnered with the system to host a booth with a welding simulator for attendees to test out in the FanZone. In 2023, race sponsor RFK Racing entered a partnership with BlueForge Alliance, the nonprofit integrator for the U.S. Navy’s Submarine Industrial Base Program, and its BuildSubmarines.com initiative to reinvigorate America’s manufacturing workforce and promote the wide array of career opportunities across the nation to NASCAR’s fan base. Through the multiyear agreement, BuildSubmarines.com was featured as a primary partner for 10 races across RFK’s two NASCAR Cup Series teams in 2023 and in 18 races per season beginning this year.

TUESDAY

Coffee Connection, 8-9 a.m., The Chamberlin, 2 Fenwick Road, Hampton. The Peninsula Chamber is hosting a networking event. $0-$10. Register at virginiapeninsulachamber.com.

Retailpreneur Series: Mastering Your Marketing Strategy, 8:30-9:45 a.m., online. The Retail Alliance is hosting Lindsey Germono, president of Germono Advertising Co., for a three-part workshop series designed to elevate your marketing strategy. The first session is on essential tools and data gathering, including learning to collect key data, request media kits and create a draft marketing plan. Free. Register at retailalliance.com.

10th Annual Suffolk B2B, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Hub 757, 6801 Bridgeway Drive, Suffolk. The Hampton Roads Chamber is hosting an expo to promote local businesses, encourage corporate networking and to showcase new products and services. Open to the public. Free. Hrchamber.com.

Healthy Conflict Navigation for Harmonious Workplaces, noon to 1 p.m., online. Virginia Tech’s Newport News Center is hosting a one-hour lunch-and-learn via Zoom to explore the art of managing conflicts in a healthy and constructive way. We’ll delve into strategies for preparing ourselves mentally to handle potential conflicts, engage in difficult conversations with poise and work toward win-win resolutions. The session will equip participants with practical tools to maintain safety and respect during conflicts, avoid falling into the traps of storytelling and assumptions and how to foster positive outcomes from disputes. Open to the public. Free. Register at https://forms.gle/qJHr7ccbpWcvtxpE8.

Business Roundtable, noon to 1 p.m., Williamsburg Community Building, 401 N. Boundary St. Williamsburg Economic Development Authority is hosting City Manager Andrew O. Trivette for project updates on recreational facilities. Includes lunch by 1693 Catering. $15. Register on eventbrite.com.

SEPT. 11

WEDNESDAY

Start, Grow, Thrive: Succeeding in Business Series, 9-10:30 a.m., 11850 Merchants Walk, Suite 110, Newport News. The Peninsula Chamber is hosting Professor Willy Donaldson of Christopher Newport University for a presentation on “The Family Business.” $0-$15. Register at virginiapeninsulachamber.com.

SEPT. 12

THURSDAY

How Do You Keep Score? Measuring What Matters in Your Organization, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., 11850 Merchants Walk, Suite 110, Newport News. The Peninsula Chamber is hosting Jennifer L. Todd, a certified public accountant, strategist and organizational coach for its Pink Bag Lunch. $10-$15. Register at virginiapeninsulachamber.com.

SEPT. 13

FRIDAY

Chesapeake Economic Development Advisory Committee Regional Panel, 8-10 a.m., The Regional Building, 723 Woodlake Drive, Chesapeake. The city committee is hosting panelists from major regional organizations to highlight the unique advantages of Hampton Roads. Panelists include Robert Crum of Hampton Roads Planning District Commission, Sherri Dawson of Hampton Roads Transit, Steve Harrison of Hampton Roads Alliance and Justin Saunders of the Hampton Roads Chamber. Free. Chesapeakeva.biz/upcoming-events/.

SEPT. 14

SATURDAY

Hampton Roads Walk for Apraxia, 9 a.m., Bayville Farms Park, 4132 First Court Road, Virginia Beach. Apraxia Kids is hosting a walk to benefit children with apraxia of speech, a rare motor speech disorder that makes it difficult for an individual to speak. Treatment includes speech therapy. The funds benefit Apraxia Kids, the leading nonprofit that works to strengthen the support systems in the lives of children with childhood apraxia of speech. Free registration. Register at apraxia-kids.org/walk-for-apraxia-splash-page/.

Taste of Suffolk Downtown Street Festival, 11 a.m.-8 p.m., along Main Street from Finney Avenue to Washington Street, historic downtown Suffolk. The city is hosting food, entertainment and activities for children. Local independent restaurants will offer their signature dishes in smaller portions at affordable prices. Attendees can browse local vendors and explore a New Vehicle Exhibition by Suffolk’s automotive dealerships. Beer garden includes local craft brews and live music. For more info, visit tasteofsuffolkva.com.

27th Annual Fall Wine Festival, noon to 5 p.m., 31st Street Park, Virginia Beach Oceanfront. The Neptune Festival is hosting a wine tasting with more than 60 wines. Enjoy delicious food, live entertainment and the opportunity to purchase the wines you like by the bottle and case. $45. Buy tickets at neptunefestival.com.

SEPT. 17

TUESDAY

CREW’s Groundbreaking Woman & Annual Meeting, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Westin at Town Center, 4535 Commerce St., Virginia Beach. CREW (Commercial Real Estate Women) Coastal Virginia is honoring Christine Verfurth, entrepreneur and Drybar franchise owner, as its 2024 Groundbreaking Woman. $45-$60. Register at coastal-virginia.crewnetwork.org.

SEPT. 18

WEDNESDAY

Legislative Reception, 5-7 p.m., Harbor Club, Waterside District, 333 Waterside Drive, Norfolk. The Hampton Roads Chamber is hosting House of Delegates Speaker Don Scott and state Sen. Christie New Craig for a legislative reception so members can discuss challenges and opportunities facing the business community, our economic climate or our quality of life. $50. Register at hrchamber.com.

SEPT. 19

THURSDAY

Military Recognition Breakfast, 7:30-10 a.m., Holiday Inn, 980 Omni Blvd., Newport News. The Peninsula Chamber is hosting a breakfast to honor local military personnel. $40. Register at virginiapeninsulachamber.com.

Unleashing Human Potential: Going for Gold in Leadership Excellence, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Christopher Newport University, David Student Union Hall, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News. The Peninsula chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management is hosting a leadership conference for human resources and leadership professionals. Network with industry leaders, engage in interactive workshops and gain insights from innovators in the field. Keynote speaker Natasha Bowman will speak to “Confessions of a Workaholic” on career success to true fulfillment and “From Stigma to Support,” a call to action for workplace mental health. Keynote speaker Harvey Johnson, CEO of PBMares, will share “Dare to Lead,” guiding your organization through times of change, uncertainty and transformation. $89-$229. Register at vapeninsulashrm.com.

Virginia Retail Matters 2024: A State of Retail Event, 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Kingsmill Resort, 1010 Kingsmill Road, Williamsburg. The Retail Alliance is hosting a lunch and presentation to bring together retailers, industry experts and forward-thinking professionals to delve into the latest trends, challenges and opportunities shaping the retail sector in Virginia. Study by Main Street America will be presented on national and state findings from its Small Business Survey and analysis. $70-$85. Register at retailalliance.com.

It’s Not Too Early for Tax Preparation, noon to 1 p.m., virtual. The Peninsula Home-based Business Network is hosting Cheryl Jackson with the Internal Revenue Service. She will give invaluable insights into tax preparation tailored specifically for home-based business owners. From deductible expenses to tax credits, we’ll explore key strategies to maximize savings while staying compliant with the latest tax regulations. Join us to simplify your tax season and optimize your financial planning for greater success in your home-based business. Free. Register at peninsulahbb.com/lunch-and-learn/.

Tech Center Block Party and Drillfield Debut, 5 p.m., 880 Tech Center Parkway, Newport News. Tech Center, in partnership with the city, is hosting food and beverage trucks and entertainment by Buck Shot. Lawn chairs welcome. Open to the public. Free.

Paint, Paws & Paddles, 5:30-8 p.m., d’Art Center, 740 Boush St., Norfolk. Norfolk SPCA is hosting a fundraiser party where adoptable animals will showcase their artistic talents alongside a local artist. Includes live and silent auctions, beverages and bites. $25. Buy tickets at eventbrite.com.

SEPT. 20

FRIDAY

End of Summer Bay Bash, 7-11 p.m., Cavalier Golf & Yacht Club, 1052 Cardinal Road, Virginia Beach. The Neptune Festival is hosting an evening by the water with dancing, endless food and drinks and great musical entertainment. $150. Buy tickets at neptunefestival.com.

SEPT. 22

SUNDAY

Garden Party Brunch Gala celebrating 35 years of LGBT Life Center, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Woman’s Club of Portsmouth, 304 Sycamore Road, Portsmouth. LGBT Life Center is hosting a gala to celebrate its progress and kick off the next 35 years. Learn about the center’s future plans. $99-$248. Buy tickets at lgbtlifecenter.org/garden-party-brunch-gala/.

SEPT. 23

MONDAY

International Soil and Tillage Research Organisation, dayslong Sept. 23-27, Wyndham Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort, 5700 Atlantic Ave. International Soil Tillage Research Organisation and Virginia Tech are hosting a “Living Roots, Living Soil” conference to promote engagement among scientists working in the field. Various topic areas include how sustainable practices impact soils. Scientists will share their latest research with the goal of improving efficiencies for growing food in sustainable ways. Includes all breakfasts and lunches, a tour of Virginia’s agricultural highlights and dinner cruise on Spirit of Norfolk. $700-$800. Register at arec.vaes.vt.edu/arec/eastern-shore/istro-2024-22nd-conference.html.

SEPT. 24

TUESDAY

Chamber Education: The EOS Model, noon to 1:30 p.m., Centura College at Prism Plaza, 4455 South Blvd., Virginia Beach. The Hampton Roads Chamber is hosting Jason Williams, a certified entrepreneurial operating system implementer, on bringing focus, accountability and discipline to your team using timeless principles and the proven EOS model. Register at hrchamber.com.

SEPT. 25

WEDNESDAY

Nominations deadline for 29th Annual Human Rights Awards. The Virginia Beach Human Rights Commission is accepting nominations by 5 p.m. for noteworthy individuals and groups who have aided in the understanding of cultural diversity and advocated for the human rights of the city’s residents. For more information, visit virginiabeach.gov/HRCawards or contact VBHRC Liaison Dominique McKinnon at 757-385-1158.

SEPT. 26

THURSDAY

50 States Small Business Conference, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Brock Commons, Virginia Wesleyan University, 5817 Wesleyan Drive, Virginia Beach. Virginia Wesleyan, Truist and the Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center are hosting an in-person conference to support existing and emerging small businesses and entrepreneurs with topics on capital access, finances, talent development and more. Free. Register at bit.ly/3ARtICz or contact Larry Belcher at 757-455-3292.

Crafting Solutions for a Healthier Tomorrow, noon to 1:30 p.m., Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel, 777 Waterside Drive, Norfolk. The Hampton Roads Chamber in partnership with Old Dominion University’s Strome College of Business is hosting Melina Davis, CEO of the Medical Society of Virginia. Learn how the Medical Society of Virginia has shifted the way it serves members and communities, from groundbreaking programs to first-of-its-kind legislation. Davis is a startup founder and helped MSV launch SafeHaven to protect health care clinicians’ well-being. Register at hrchamber.com.

Business After Hours, 4:30-6 p.m., 204 Challenger Way, Hampton. The Peninsula Chamber is hosting a networking event at St. George Brewing Co. $0-$15. Register at virginiapeninsulachamber.com.

Chamber Business Social, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Topgolf, 5444 Greenwich Road, Virginia Beach. The Hampton Roads Chamber is hosting a networking event with complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cash bar at the indoor skydiving venue. Register at hrchamber.com.

SEPT. 27

FRIDAY

Resilience in Today’s World, 9 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Saturday,  The Founder’s Inn Spa & Conference Center, 5641 Indian River Road, Virginia Beach. The Christian Broadcasting Network’s Helping the Home Front military ministry is hosting its second conference in the city to help military members and their families, and the general public, build resilience in the battle against suicide. It will feature some of the nation’s most impactful speakers, mental health professors and military experts who will lead breakout sessions on critical topics, enrichment activities and workshops on healthy lifestyle, marriage, and finances. A banquet includes guest speaker Taya Kyle, bestselling author and wife of the late Navy SEAL sniper, Chris Kyle. Other speakers include Dr. Damon Friedman, a retired Air Force special operations commander and founder of SOF Missions; Evan Owens, executive director of REBOOT Recovery; retired Army Capt. John Arroyo and Ft. Hood shooting survivor; and Anna Ord, dean of College of Health and Behavioral Sciences at Regent University. Free. Register at helpingthehomefront.org/events/leadership-conference-2024-resilience-in-todays-world/.

Spotlight on the Peninsula, 1-3 p.m., Ferguson, 751 Lakefront Commons, City Center, Newport News. The Peninsula Chamber is hosting an information session and networking opportunity at Ferguson, a major Peninsula employer. Free. Register at virginiapeninsulachamber.com.

OCT. 5

SATURDAY

Barktoberfest, noon to 6 p.m., Mill Point Park, 100 Eaton St., Hampton. Peninsula SPCA is hosting its annual fall fundraiser with live music, local craft beer, food trucks, local vendors, costume contests for pets and people and dog-friendly contests and activities. $10-$45. Register at https://one.bidpal.net/bark2024/welcome.

Yorktown Wine Festival, noon-6 p.m., Riverwalk Landing, 425 Water St., Yorktown. Village Events is hosting a wine tasting event with a craft beer garden and spirits from local distilleries. In a nod to sister cities Zweibrücken and Port-Vendres, attendees can sample Rieslings and Gewürztraminers from Germany and indulge bubbly from France. $40-$50. Buy tickets on Eventbrite.com.

Light Up the Night Gala, 6-10 p.m., Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront, 4201 Atlantic Ave. Safe House Project is hosting a fundraiser gala. Every year, we gather to celebrate the progress in our fight against trafficking and honor the incredible stories of hope and resilience. $175. Buy tickets at https://e.givesmart.com/events/w7A/.

OCT. 8

TUESDAY

Coffee Connection, 8-9 a.m., The Mariners’ Museum, 100 Museum Drive, Newport News. The Peninsula Chamber is hosting a networking event. $0-$10. Register at virginiapeninsulachamber.com.

State of the Region, noon-2 p.m., Norfolk Waterside Marriott, 235 E. Main St. The Hampton Roads Chamber is hosting speakers with Old Dominion University’s Dragas Center for Economic Analysis and Policy for an update and forecast on the economy of Hampton Roads and its main drivers. Speakers will also talk about the supply of housing in the region, public libraries, the aging of the region and a look at if disability rates are rising locally. Register at hrchamber.com.

OCT. 9

WEDNESDAY

Professionalize Your Management-Systems Thinking and Your Management System, 9-10:30 a.m., 11850 Merchants Walk, Suite 110, Newport News. The Peninsula Chamber is hosting Professor Willy Donaldson of Christopher Newport University for its Start, Grow, Thrive: Succeeding in Business Series event. $15. Register at virginiapeninsulachamber.com.

OCT. 10

THURSDAY

Magnetic Leadership: Harnessing Charisma and Executive Presence, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., 11850 Merchants Walk, Suite 110, Newport News. The Peninsula Chamber is hosting Cheryl Harris Sutton, president of Harris Sutton Enterprises, for its Pink Bag Lunch. $10-$15. Register at virginiapeninsulachamber.com.

OCT. 11

FRIDAY

State of the Region, 7:30-9:30 a.m., 980 Omni Blvd., Newport News. The Peninsula Chamber is hosting Old Dominion University economists Robert McNab and Vinod Agarwal for an economic update and forecast. $45. Register at virginiapeninsulachamber.com.

OCT. 17

THURSDAY

Young Professional Summit 2024, noon-6 p.m., The Westin, 4535 Commerce St., Virginia Beach Town Center. tHRive, the young professionals group of the Hampton Roads Chamber, is hosting its signature event for young professionals offering professional development and networking. $50-$65. Register at ypthrive.org.

OCT. 19

SATURDAY

Fall Town Point Wine Festival, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Town Point Park, downtown Norfolk waterfront. Festevents is hosting one of the most anticipated wine festivals of the season with more than 200 fine wines to choose from. $35-$40. Register at festevents.org/events/2024/fallwinefest/.

OCT. 22

TUESDAY

Rooted in Purpose: Women Impact Virginia, 8 a.m.- 3:15 p.m., 1010 Kingsmill Road, Kingsmill Resort, Williamsburg. Virginia Tech is hosting women trailblazers, innovators and leaders in their fields to share insights, strategies and stories. They include Kim B Miller, a poet, author and speaker and Torrece “Chef T” Gregoire. $199. Register at outreach.vt.edu/engagement/women-impact-virginia/register.html.

OCT. 24

THURSDAY

40th Annual Employment Law Update, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., virtual. Kaufman & Canoles is hosting employment law experts to update attendees on new employment laws and regulations that require effective human resources help to navigate. This year’s 40th ELU is designed to update employers on developments like the new proposed Equal Employment Opportunity Commission guidance on workplace harassment and new wage-hour regulations from the Department of Labor. A “Top Gun” employee lawyer will provide insights on how he decides which employers he will sue. Attendees can also earn up to six certification credit hours. $375. Register at kaufcan.com/events/webinars/40th-annual-employment-law-update-virtual/.

OCT. 27

SUNDAY

Yorktoberfest, noon to 5 p.m., Riverwalk Landing, 331 Water St., Yorktown. The York County Chamber of Commerce is hosting its signature event with beer, food and music. Unlimited tastings of 35-plus craft beers, ciders and more. $10-$40. Register at yorktoberfestva.com.

OCT. 28

MONDAY

Monster Mega Mixer Business Showcase, 4:30-7 p.m., The Westin, 4535 Commerce St., Virginia Beach Town Center. The Hampton Roads Chamber is hosting its 13th annual expo to showcase business products and services while encouraging corporate networking. Bring your painted pumpkin to registration by 5 p.m. top enter the contest. Register at hrchamber.com.

Please, send calendar items to inside.business@insidebiz.com.

Austin said that passing a continuing resolution that caps spending at 2024 levels, rather than taking action on the proposed 2025 budget will hurt thousands of defense programs, and damage military recruiting just as it is beginning to recover after the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Asking the department to compete with (China), let alone manage conflicts in Europe and the Middle East, while under a lengthy CR, ties our hands behind our back while expecting us to be agile and to accelerate progress,” said Austin in the letter to leaders of the House and Senate appropriations committees.

Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson has teed up a vote this week on a bill that would keep the federal government funded for six more months. The measure aims to garner support from his more conservative GOP members by also requiring states to obtain proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or passport, when registering a person to vote.

Congress needs to approve a stop-gap spending bill before the end of the budget year on Sept. 30 to avoid a government shutdown just a few weeks before voters go to the polls and elect the next president.

Austin said the stop-gap measure would cut defense spending by more than $6 billion compared to the 2025 spending proposal. And it would take money from key new priorities while overfunding programs that no longer need it.

Under a continuing resolution, new projects or programs can’t be started. Austin said that passing the temporary bill would stall more than $4.3 billion in research and development projects and delay 135 new military housing and construction projects totaling nearly $10 billion.

It also would slow progress on a number of key nuclear, ship-building, high-tech drone and other weapons programs. Many of those projects are in an array of congressional districts, and could also have an impact on local residents and jobs.

Since the bill would not fund legally required pay raises for troops and civilians, the department would have to find other cuts to offset them. Those cuts could halt enlistment bonuses, delay training for National Guard and Reserve forces, limit flying hours and other training for active-duty troops and impede the replacement of weapons and other equipment that has been pulled from Pentagon stocks and sent to Ukraine.

Going forward with the continuing resolution, said Austin, will “subject service members and their families to unnecessary stress, empower our adversaries, misalign billions of dollars, damage our readiness, and impede our ability to react to emergent events.”

Noting that there have been 48 continuing resolutions during 14 of the last 15 fiscal years — for a total of nearly 1,800 days — Austin said Congress must break the pattern of inaction because the U.S. military can’t compete with China “with our hands tied behind our back every fiscal year.”

Johnson’s bill is not expected to get support in the Democratic-controlled Senate, if it even makes it that far. But Congress will have to pass some type of temporary measure by Sept. 30 in order to avoid a shutdown.

Ehmer joined Waffle House in 1992 and quickly rose to senior leadership, becoming president of the company in 2002, and later adding the titles of CEO and chairman, according to information from Georgia Tech, his alma mater.

“His leadership, dedication and warmth touched the lives of many, both within the Waffle House family and beyond. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy,” Mayor Andre Dickens said in a news release.

The board of directors for Waffle House issued a statement Sunday afternoon saying Ehmer died after a long illness. “He will be greatly missed by his entire Waffle House family,” the statement said.

Ehmer was chair of the Georgia Tech Alumni Association Board of Trustees from 2012 to 2013 and served numerous organizations, including the Georgia Tech Foundation Board and the Georgia Tech Advisory Board.

The Waffle House chain of around-the-clock diners opened in 1955 and now boasts more than 1,900 locations in 25 states.

Ehmer is survived by three children, according to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

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This story was first published on Sept. 8, 2024. It was updated on Sept. 9, 2024, to correct the name of Waffle House CEO Walt Ehmer’s alma mater. It is Georgia Tech, not Georgia Tech University.

Almost six years later, the project has a new planned development partner and a much smaller scope. Gone is the enormous tower, replaced by plans for a modest five-story, 200-room hotel and minimum spending of at least $300 million, according to a new development agreement City Council members will vote on Tuesday.

Even so, Mayor Kenny Alexander said he believes the Pamunkey’s new partner Boyd Gaming has the track record and legitimacy to follow through on development, including financing the project to the tune of more than $500 million.

“We’re very confident in Boyd’s ability to exceed our expectations, and more importantly, be a great corporate citizen,” Alexander said.

Here’s how the proposals for the casino have changed over the years.

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Current plans call for scaled-back project

Design teams presented the current casino plans, backed by Boyd, to the Norfolk Architectural Review Board in August. They include:

• A 200-room, five-story hotel tower
• An at-least 935-space parking garage
• An outdoor pool and bar
• Restaurants, including a food hall with four or five restaurants; a sports bar and a steakhouse
• A fitness center and spa

Absent from the latest plans and the agreements is a marina on the Elizabeth River, which was shown in previous renderings.

However, the agreements would require casino developers to pay for part of two significant waterfront projects — up to $7.5 million for the southern portion of the downtown Norfolk seawall project and up to $562,000 to maintain the portion of the Elizabeth River Trail near the property.

The city documents reveal Boyd, a major Nevada gaming company with 28 properties in 10 states, is set to become the new majority owner of Golden Eagle Consulting, the company created by Yarbrough that oversees development. Under the new agreement, the Pamunkey Indian Tribe also would possess a 20% equity interest in the company.

It’s unclear from the documents whether Yarbrough would have a role in the new agreement. Alexander also didn’t know.

“I’ve never met him,” Alexander said about the billionaire backer. “I’ve never had a conversation with him on a telephone. I’ve never met him.”

Also removed from renderings is the name Golden Eagle previously used for the development: HeadWaters Casino and Resort.

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Significantly smaller than 2019 plan

The latest plans are smaller in scale than what was presented to the City Council in September 2019, about a year before Norfolk voters passed a referendum authorizing the casino. Those plans included:

• A $700 million price tag
• 500 four-diamond hotel rooms
• 3,500-4,500 slot machines and 100-225 table games
• A 750-seat entertainment venue and a spa
• 3-5 restaurants
• Roughly 6,500 parking spaces

Some city officials, including former City Manager Chip Filer, were skeptical of the tribe’s initial investment figures. In a December 2019 economic analysis, the city predicted the developers would only spend $375 million on the project. As recently as 2023, however, tribe officials said investment in the development would top $500 million and include at least 300 hotel rooms.

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Agreement includes minimum standards

The new development agreement, like the old agreement, comes with minimum standards that must be met. It requires a minimum investment of $300 million. Other minimum standards detailed in an option-to-purchase agreement include:

• A casino floor with at least 750 electronic gaming machines and 25 table games
• At least 150 hotel rooms, with a lobby bar, retail store and coffee shop
• Several food and beverage venues including a food hall, a sports bar and grill, and a fine dining restaurant and lounge
• A 500-seat “intimate showroom”
• A parking garage with at least 103 spots for Amtrak customers
• An outdoor function space
• A spa and fitness center

A 2019 agreement by the developer and Norfolk also includes similar minimum figures, such as 750 gaming machines, 25 tables and 150 hotel rooms.

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Timeline and construction phasing

One of the biggest hangups with the project has been the phasing of planned construction. An initial plan would have housed a temporary casino inside Harbor Park baseball stadium while the permanent structure was built. But that was scrapped after the city ran into statutory issues with using the location.

Developers later pitched a phased construction plan that built the casino first followed by the hotel and resort. But city leaders made clear they did not support the two-phase approach, and the design was pulled from review.

Alexander said, unlike the past proposals that included temporary gaming, he is confident Boyd can deliver on the whole project in a single phase.

Norfolk voters approved the casino construction in a 2020 referendum, which came with a five-year deadline. To meet that deadline for obtaining a state gaming license, Boyd plans to build a temporary casino at the site while construction for the permanent casino commences. The temporary casino would open in late 2025 and the permanent space in late 2027, according to a project timeline.

Norfolk City Council members will vote on the option-to-purchase agreement, development agreement and construction and use covenant Tuesday.

Trevor Metcalfe, 757-222-5345, trevor.metcalfe@pilotonline.com

The black and white murals in the monochrome restaurant evoke the look of a coloring book in need of crayons. Everything at 2D Cafe & Eatery is outlined in black, including the wall design, ceiling tiles, sofas, stools and floors, to create cartoon vibes.

In June, Monica Kiraly and her husband, Ali Abay, opened the Instagrammable cafe on 11th Street and Atlantic Avenue. The couple owns three other Oceanfront businesses: Basil Pizza, 204 Pizza and La Dulce Vida.

Kiraly said she loves coffee shops and thought the Oceanfront needed more. So, when her husband went to a 2D cafe in Turkey and brought the creative idea back, Kiraly was sold. Her only concern was finding someone to the paint the 2D concept.

The couple hired two J-1 art students from Thailand to paint the design. The students took three weeks to complete the painting and worked on their days off from their housekeeping jobs at an area hotel. The State Department’s J-1 exchange visitor visa program enables international students to work seasonal jobs.

“I was a J-1 student myself seven years ago,” Kiraly said. “I knew the students coming to Virginia Beach had lots of potential and skills.”

Cafe menu items include Turkish dishes, coffee, iced lattes, boba drinks, bagels, salads, wagyu burgers and dumplings. Kiraly said the best sellers are the signature iced lattes such as Dulce de Coco (dulce de leche cream and coconut cold foam), Strawberry Bliss (strawberry puree, vanilla and strawberry cold foam) and Biscoffee (Biscoff cream, vanilla and cold foam).

Cig kofte, or small and spicy bulgur wheat meatballs, is one of the most popular Turkish dishes. Turkish desserts include baklava, custards, “burnt” cheesecake and others.

The cafe is very active on Instagram and gets tagged frequently. Within the first month, a customer asked to have a photo shoot at the location.

“Most of our customers come because of the 2D concept,” Kiraly said. “We want to keep them happy with the good food, not just the cool design.”

Lee Belote, jlbelote@verizon.net

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If you go

What: 2D Cafe & Eatery

Where: 1102 Atlantic Ave., Virginia Beach

Info: 2dcafe.com