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.

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

The Virginia Beach location at 4001 Virginia Beach Blvd. will be the ninth in Virginia, where it started in Richmond in 2011. Customers come to find home decor, antiques, jewelry, food items and other creative treasures.

Heather Reynolds, the first franchisee, said she first discovered Lazy Daisy in Williamsburg and was attracted to the layout and unique items. The regional chain also operates a store in the Tabb area of York County.

“It has an incredibly inspiring and peaceful atmosphere,” Reynolds said. “The open floor concept allows each artisan to fully express their creativity in their own unique space. It blends seamlessly with the rest of the marketplace.”

That marketplace is a lively hub of creativity, she added, and each artisan is carefully selected to reflect the style and decor that Lazy Daisy is known for.

The 11,000-square-foot Virginia Beach store will serve as a venue to more than 50 vendors, including business owner Heather Chirdon.

“This business model is a way to expand your small business without the overhead and other responsibilities of a traditional brick-and-mortar,” she said.

She added you don’t have to worry about utility bills, employees, maintenance, long leases or other owner responsibilities.

Chirdon, who owned Refine on West Great Neck Road, is familiar with the model after adapting her business to sell in the Painted Tree, a chain with a large Laskin Road location that rents space to shop vendors.

When she first opened Refine in August 2019, Chirdon had focused on the aesthetic side and services such as body toning, cryofacials and body slimming. She ran a boutique as a supplement there because she thought the Shore Drive corridor could use more retail options.

“COVID forced us to pivot into more of the boutique side, and it really had a major impact on our revenue,” she said. “We had a lot of momentum despite the pandemic, and local customers loved the ability to shop local during the holidays.”

The expansion of the boutique led her to Painted Tree in 2022, and she has since expanded into six other Painted Tree locations. While adapting to changing retail trends, she closed her own brick-and-mortar boutique in August. She will continue her Refine presence in Painted Tree and focus on online sales.

Chirdon said she’s excited to sell with Lazy Daisy to expand her business to the Town Center area. And by having store staff take care of day-to-day sales, Chirdon said she has more time to focus on other avenues.

Michelle Leshok, owner and founder of Lazy Daisy, said each vendor is special and unique.

“They have so many stories to tell themselves about how the store has changed their lives,” Leshok said.

For more information, visit lazydaisygiftstore.com. Interested vendors can email vendorinfo@lazydaisyvabeach.com.

Lee Belote, jlbelote@verizon.net

Sea Love Candle Bar and Boutique recently opened a do-it-yourself candle experience in La Promenade shopping center. The Maine-based franchise, founded by a husband and wife team, has 13 locations, including its first in Virginia.

Virginia Beach franchisees Theresa Johnson and Jennifer Carlson grew up in the city and are sisters and military veterans. They describe the candle bar as a “coastal oasis” and said the store’s mission is to evoke memories and emotions with fragrance.

A scent stylist leads guests to the 16-seat shiplap bar where they’re guided through the process of scent blending and pouring wax. Customers can choose from from over 100 fragrances such as blue agave, pink sugar, mango, suntan lotion, crackling firewood, champagne, leather and more. Typically, one to three scents are blended together.

Candles take two hours to cool before they’re ready to take home or customers can pay $12 to ship them home. Candle prices start at about $40 and come in a small, large or double wick size. Reed diffusers are available too. Complimentary beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages are served during the candle bar experience.

The environmentally friendly candles are made from an all-natural soy wax and phthalate-free oils. They’re vegan and free of dye and paraffin wax. Candles come with a dust cover crafted from seeded paper that can be planted to grow wildflowers.

A Virginia Beach Boardwalk candle will be offered at the La Promenade location. The local scent will feature the fragrances of sea salt, strawberry and sandalwood. Sixteen signature scents are for sale in the shop.

The boutique carries an array of beach-inspired treasures and gifts. Coastal living accessories include tote bags, wide brim hats, jewelry, linens and Virginia Beach pillows.

Customers can also shop for pet items, apparel, beard oil, room sprays and children’s items. An apothecary section allows guests to bag their own bath salts and soaps.

“We’ve created a space where people can escape the daily hustle and immerse themselves in the soothing spirit of a seaside lifestyle,” Johnson said. “You can embark on a sensory journey or find a piece of coastal paradise to take home.”

Lee Belote, jlbelote@verizon.net

___

If you go

What: Sea Love Candle Bar and Boutique

Where: 1860 Laskin Road, No. 103, Virginia Beach

Visit: Sealove.com/pages/virginiabeach

Gov. Glenn Youngkin announced additional key board appointments. Matthew Melvin of Newport News, executive director of Hope Unity Freedom Center, was appointed to the State Board of Social Services. Roger Cheeks of Chesapeake, senior director of outreach for International Fellowship of Christians and Jews, was appointed to the Virginia Foundation for the Humanities and Public Policy. Stacy James Armentrout Jr. of Chesapeake, associate environmental scientist at Wetland Studies and Solutions Inc., and Patrick Studley of Hampton, certified industrial hygienist, training and field department manager for Marine Chemist Service Inc., were appointed to the Virginia Board for Asbestos, Lead, and Home Inspectors. Kevin Duck of Isle of Wight, president of Chesterfield Insurers and commissioner for Carrsville Volunteer Fire Department, was appointed to the Virginia Fire Services Board. Commonwealth’s Attorney Colin Stolle of Virginia Beach was appointed to the Virginia State Crime Commission.

Awards and honors

The IncuHub, founded by Marko and Kristin Frigelj, received commendation by the House of Delegates for its fifth anniversary this year. The co-working space opened in Portsmouth in 2019, expanded there in 2022, and opened a location in downtown Hampton in 2024. They were presented with a copy of House Resolution No. 782 for fostering the aspirations of business owners and bringing greater prosperity to historically underutilized business districts.

HighSpeedInternet.com ranked Cox as the fastest internet service provider in the nation in this year’s annual review based on average download speeds for all of 2023. Cox claimed the top spot by delivering average yearlong download speeds of 238 megabits per second across the country, a full 10 mbps ahead of its nearest competitor. Cox has invested nearly $12 billion in network upgrades over the past 10 years (2014-2023) and said it will continue making multibillion-dollar annual infrastructure investments over the next several years, including expanding fiber to the home.

Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News was named to the top 20 in the 2024 Most Beautiful Hospitals contest, sponsored by national healthcare staffing firm Soliant Health. Riverside was one of 80-plus hospitals nominated. With 21,301 votes, Riverside Regional Medical Center placed 12th in the national contest.

In its annual listing of Top 100 Brokers of U.S. Business measuring brokerage revenue generated by U.S.-based clients, Business Insurance ranked Towne Insurance Agency as No. 54, rising three spots from the list released in July 2023. The wholly owned subsidiary of TowneBank grew revenue by 19% in 2023 through strong retention, organic growth and the acquisition of Manry-Rawls LLC, with offices in Virginia and North Carolina. Now the largest bank-owned agency nationwide, Towne Insurance moved many of its regional offices into TowneBank financial centers that promote collaboration among insurance professionals and representatives from the bank, mortgage, wealth management and realty partners.

The city of Suffolk was awarded a Distinguished Budget Presentation Award by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada for the 16th straight year for its 2024-25 fiscal year operating and capital budget.

U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman was presented with the Hero of Main Street Award by the National Retail Federation this summer for his work supporting the American small business community through his legislative action and leadership.

Mode5 in Norfolk is the 81st top-performing managed services provider in the world, and No. 1 in Hampton Roads, according to Channel Futures, a leading voice in the information technology space and provider of the MSP 501, a list of the most influential and fastest-growing providers of managed services in the technology industry. Channel Futures ranks companies based on their growth, profitability and innovation.

Grants and donations

Smithfield Foods is sponsoring the 2024 National Conservation Foundation’s Envirothon Competition, an international environmental and natural resource problem-solving competition that builds leadership experience for high school students, with $89,000 in funding. Smithfield provided $30,000 to be awarded as scholarships to the top three teams in the national competition, as well as an additional $59,000 to support 51 state competitions held across the country.

The Visionaries for Change, a giving circle of the Hampton Roads Community Foundation, awarded five grants totaling $33,750 to charitable causes in the Black community in Hampton Roads. They were: $7,000 to Black BRAND for the B-Force Accelerator Program; $9,000 to Envision, Lead, Grow for the Blossom Network financial literacy program to support women ages 18-25; $5,500 to the Metropolitan Business League for the Hampton Roads Capital Access Program; $6,250 to the Micro-Nonprofit Network for the Micro-Nonprofit Strategy Café; and $6,000 to Neighborhood for the Career and Community Development Program.

Economic impact

Amazon reported investing more than $135 billion in Virginia since 2010, creating more than 39,000 jobs in the state in its operations, logistics, corporate and technology functions. A report produced by economists at Keystone Strategy estimates Amazon contributed more than $96 billion to the Virginia economy and supported more than 195,000 indirect jobs across the state in 2023, in fields like construction, transportation, retail, health care, hospitality and more. Amazon was named the No. 1 Investment Hero of 2024 by the Progressive Policy Institute, investing more in the U.S. than any other American company for the fifth straight year.

Environment

Hampton Roads Sanitation District recognized 108 private and government organizations in Hampton Roads for perfect compliance with their environmental permits during 2023. Earning Pollution Prevention (P2) awards this year were Department of the Air Force’s Langley Air Force Base and Joint Base Langley-Eustis (greater than 1,000 employees), Canon Environmental Technologies Inc. (101-1,000 employees) and Waste Management-Bethel Landfill (fewer than 100 employees). The P2 Award distinguishes organizations for success in multimedia (air, land and water) efforts in reducing waste or its toxicity at the source. Nine organizations earned Diamond Excellence Awards for 11 or more years of perfect compliance: MDM Septic Services Inc., Naval Weapons Station Yorktown-Cheatham Annex, Parsley Septic Tank Service Inc., Newport News Shipbuilding’s North Yard, Stihl Inc., Navy’s Joint Expeditionary Base Fort Story, A Clean Bay Plumbing and Drain Cleaning, J & J Enterprises of Suffolk Corp. and Town of Smithfield’s Reverse Osmosis Plant. Three organizations were acknowledged with Diamond Awards for achieving 10 years of perfect compliance: Brown Plumbing & Septic LLC, Eastern Virginia Medical School
and J.L. Bishop Contractor Inc.

Fundraiser

Phillips Energy kicked off its annual efforts to help the Alzheimer’s Association of the Middle Peninsula with a summer fundraiser that brought in over $6,700 for the cause. Alzheimer’s disease hits close to home for Elizabeth McCormick, vice president for Phillips Energy, and her brother, John Phillips, company president. Their grandfather and company founder, L. Frank Phillips Sr., died from the disease as did their father, L. Frank Phillips Jr., and Crystal Allmond Phillips, their grandmother. On June 20, Phillips Energy donated 10% of all sales at its public gas station to the Alzheimer’s Association. Gloucester Brewing Co. (which donated a portion of the proceeds from the night) hosted a community awareness event. The event brought Phillips Energy’s total dollars raised this year to over $14,000. The company has donated over $150,000 to the cause since it started fundraising.

Openings

Luna Estelle, a body piercing studio at 1246 Merchant Lane, and IvyGlam Spa & Wellness at 3420 Von Schilling Drive are now open in Hampton’s Peninsula Town Center. The Meadows Frozen Custard plans to open soon there at 2902 Kilgore Ave.

Hanger Law, established in 2014 in Virginia Beach by Hunter D. Hanger, expanded with the opening of an executive closing suite at Venture X at Summit Pointe in Chesapeake on July 8. This new office provides closing services for commercial and residential real estate and helps the firm establish a presence in the city. Services include contracts, lease drafting and negotiations and land use/zoning negotiations.

The Mason Jar, selling Southern comfort food and serving breakfast, brunch and dinner, opened at 141 Hillcrest Parkway in Chesapeake in June.

YourSpace held a ground-breaking for its first extended-stay hotel at 2137 Starmount Parkway in Chesapeake.

The Foleck Center at 3824 Kecoughtan Road in Hampton held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Aug. 15.

OBX Appliances celebrated the grand opening of its new location in Barco, North Carolina, in August. The new store at 211 Shortcut Road sells a comprehensive range of home appliances, including gently used items, as well as scratch-and-dent products. OBX Appliances also offers expert repair and maintenance services. For more information, call 252-214-6656.

Startups

Piclist founder Eli James, a senior in computer science from Virginia Beach, completed the startup accelerator program hosted by the Kansas State University College of Business Administration’s Center for the Advancement of Entrepreneurship. The program offered faculty-led courses, hands-on student research teams and access to an extensive alumni mentor network. Each of the 11 companies was awarded a grant for $4,500 in equity-free funding.

Gov. Glenn Youngkin announced fulfilling his administration’s goal of creating 10,000 new high-growth and high-wage startup companies in Virginia. “Through our Compete to Win strategy, we’ve reached this incredible milestone by driving innovation, fostering entrepreneurship, bolstering our talent pipeline, providing needed tax relief, and truly creating an environment where startups and businesses can thrive,” Youngkin said. In Virginia, 10,337 high-growth and high-wage startups were created during 2022-23, according to Richmond-based Chmura Economics & Analytics. Chmura’s consulting team and the National Venture Capital Association also reported that Virginia was ranked No. 8 in the country for highest venture capital investment dollar activity during 2023. This is Virginia’s highest national ranking, and the first time it has reached the top 10 during at least the past 10 years since 2014.

WHITNEY HUSTON

New job: Vice president of marketing, Chartway Credit Union

Specialties: Brand strengthening and refresh initiatives

Previously: Director of marketing, director of member experience, Chartway

Education: Bachelor’s, Old Dominion University

HENRY THOMPSON

New job: Senior vice president of technology, Chartway Credit Union

Specialties: Implementing strategic technological solutions in software development, information security, IT operations and service management; modernizing IT infrastructure and application

Previously: Vice president of information technology, director of IT, Chartway

Education: Bachelor’s, Longwood University; executive development certificate, Old Dominion University

BUSINESS ASSISTANCE

SABRINA HAMMELL

New job: Program manager, 757 Collab

Specialties: Providing technical assistance advisory services to entrepreneurs, mechanical engineering background

Previously: Research and development engineer, worked with academic and business partners to create new opportunities for Canon Virginia Inc.

Education: Bachelor’s, James Madison University

EDUCATION

KUNTAL BHATTACHARYYA

New job: Inaugural director, School of Supply Chain, Logistics and Maritime Operations at Old Dominion University

Specialties: Strategic sourcing, supply chain management, financial economics, humanitarian logistics, Industry 4.0 applications in manufacturing, graduate program management and implementation, published research

Previously: Project director, Logistics 4.0 Innovation Hub@Plainfield, Indiana State University

Education: Doctorate in operations management, Kent State University; master’s in management, University of Akron; certified risk manager

COURTNEY GARDNER

New job: Director of advancement, Hampton Roads Academy

Specialties: Fundraising campaigns and strategies, donor relationships, community partnerships, alumni relations, nonprofit management, 20-plus years of experience in advancement and development

Previously: Director, Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts in Houston, Texas; executive director, Peninsula Fine Arts Center in Newport News

ENVIRONMENT

RODGER JACKSON
New job: Environmental Division Director, Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Atlantic
Specialties: Expert manager of multidiscipline teams focused on environmental compliance, planning, restoration
Previously: Environmental resources and assessment division manager, NAVFAC Atlantic
Education: Master’s in engineering management, Old Dominion University; bachelor’s in civil engineering, Virginia Tech

GOVERNMENT

MAJ. JESSE EPPERSON

New job: Deputy chief, Suffolk Police Department

Specialties: Commander of the Underwater Search and Recovery Team and Honor Guard

Previously: Suffolk Police Department since 2006: uniform patrol, investigator and sergeant with the Neighborhood Enforcement Team, Internal Affairs sergeant, Special Investigations Section lieutenant, captain of operations for Precinct 1, captain of administration

Education: Master’s in public administration, Troy University; bachelor’s in criminal justice, Old Dominion University; Institute for Leadership in Changing Times, Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police; certified law enforcement executive

HEALTH CARE

MICHELLE BURTCHIN

New job: Chief nursing officer, Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center in Portsmouth

KRISTEN L. MCSORLEY

New job: Vice president of nursing, Bon Secours Harbour View Medical Center in Suffolk (currently expanding and slated to open in 2025)

ANGELA MARKO
New job: Pediatric Pulmonologist, Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters
Specialties: Pediatric pulmonology
Previously: Pediatric pulmonologist at UH Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio
Education: Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine; residency and fellowship, UH Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio

REAL ESTATE

ERIN CALL
New job: Assistant property manager, Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer
Specialties: Commercial property management
Previously: Property management assistant, Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer

JULIANA CORBETT
New job: Associate director, Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer
Specialties: Commercial property management
Previously: Senior portfolio manager, Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer
Education: Accredited commercial manager designation

GLADYS FAIN

New job: Vice president and supervising broker, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices RW Towne Property Management

Specialties: Shaping the industry through active involvement with Virginia Realtors, serving on the Risk Management Committee and Property Management Council; Hampton Roads Realtors Association, serving on the board and as a member of the Property Management and Leasing Council; and Real Estate Information Network Property Management Advisory Council

Previously: Director of property management, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices RW Towne Property Management; helped the company grow through mergers

CLIFF HAMNER
New job: Vice president, Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer
Specialties: Commercial property management
Previously: Associate director, Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer
Education: Bachelor’s, Wake Forest University

STANTON MCDUFFIE
New job: Associate, Commonwealth Commercial Partners
Specialties: Leasing and sales
Previously: Associate, Colliers International
Education: College of Charleston

CHRISTINA MONTGOMERY
New job: Associate director, Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer
Specialties: Commercial property management
Previously: Senior portfolio manager, Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer
Education: Associate in business administration, Tidewater Community College

TITLE

CHRISTIE WORRELL

New job: Title support manager,  NexGen Title Agency in downtown Norfolk
Specialties: Commercial title examiner, commercial real estate title insurance, expertise with land records and complex transactions
Previously: Title support manager, BridgeTrust Title Group

Divaris Real Estate

Jak Investments LLC sold a 11,350-square-foot medical office condominium at 684 N. Battlefield Blvd. to Taylor Road Associates I LC in Chesapeake. Michael Divaris and Jason Oliver represented the seller.

JLL

Triangle Partners Group LLC bought 5105 George Washington Highway in Portsmouth from CD George Washington 5101 LLC for $325,000. Chanda Chann represented the buyer.

Mid-Atlantic Commercial

Mid-Atlantic Commercial helped to broker the sale of 10753 Jefferson Ave., the former Sam & Steve‘s House of Beef. Robert Duckett represented the seller.

LEASES

Divaris Real Estate

315 Logistics leased 2,811 square feet of retail space at 1248 Perimeter Parkway in Virginia Beach. Krista Costa represented the landlord.

Victor Cantrell LLC leased 1,000 square feet of retail space in Birdneck Community Shoppes at 1091 Birdneck Road in Virginia Beach. Elizabeth Napolitano represented the landlord.

PawSpa Pet Spa leased 750 square feet of retail space in West Little Creek Shoppes at 143 W. Little Creek Road in Norfolk. Kris Fuller represented the landlord.

JLL

Civitas Health Services leased 4,414 square feet at 814 Greenbrier Circle in Chesapeake. Chanda Chann represented the tenant.

Laurita Inc. leased 1 acre at 1201 E. Olney Road in Norfolk. Joe Kennedy represented the tenant.

PBMares, LLP leased 10,253 square feet at 440 Monticello Ave. in Norfolk. Deborah Stearns represented the tenant.

Stantec Consulting Services Inc. leased 2,320 square feet at 277 Bendix Road in Virginia Beach. Chanda Chann represented the tenant.

Coastal Alliance LLC leased 7,840 square feet at 900 Broad St. in Portsmouth. Todd Scholsohn and Gregg Christoffersen represented the building owner.

Korslund and Korslund, PC extended their lease of 3,595 square feet at 555 E. Main St. in Norfolk. Wesley Edwards and Justin Gruendling represented the building owner.

Ahmed Asumairi, New York Deli leased 850 square feet free standing with drive-thru at 5105 George Washington Highway in Portsmouth. Chanda Chann represented the building owner.

LEASE RENEWALS

Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer

Dal-Tile Distribution Inc renewed its lease of 26,400 square feet of industrial space at 5770 Thurston Ave. in Virginia Beach. Geoff Poston represented the landlord.

Worldpac Inc. renewed its lease of 20,020 square feet of office/warehouse space in Oyster Point Business Park at Peninsula Business Center II, 11761 Rock Landing Drive, in Newport News. Bobby Phillips represented the tenant.

King Crab Juicy Seafood renewed its lease of 4,830 square feet of restaurant space at 1640 Richmond Road in Williamsburg. Tom Dana represented the landlord.

Mix & Shine Marketing LLC renewed its lease of 3,991 square feet of office space at Pavilion Center, 2101 Parks Ave., in Virginia Beach. John P. Duffy represented the tenant.

Aerotek Inc. renewed its lease of 3,701 square feet of office space at One BayPort Way in Newport News. Teresa Nettles represented the landlord.

Kao Thai renewed its lease of 3,000 square feet of retail space at Hilltop Square Shopping Center, 528-550 First Colonial Road, in Virginia Beach. Connie Jordan Nielsen and Dean Martin represented the landlord.

Philip D Studio renewed its lease of 3,000 square feet of office space at 144 Tewning Road in Williamsburg. Andy Dallas represented the tenant.

Kumon renewed its lease of 2,400 square feet of retail space at Brenneman Farm, 4540 Princess Anne Road, in Virginia Beach. Dean Martin represented the landlord.

Virginia Creative Group LLC renewed its lease of 2,071 square feet of office space at International Distribution Center, 11861 Canon Blvd., in Newport News. Teresa Nettles represented the landlord.

Mango Mango renewed its lease of 1,200 square feet of retail space at Brenneman Farm, 4540 Princess Anne Road, in Virginia Beach. Dean Martin represented the landlord. Eric Stanley represented the tenant.

Divaris Real Estate

The Cheesecake Factory renewed its lease for 11,507 square feet of retail space in Virginia Beach Town Center at 265 Central Park Ave. in Virginia Beach. Sezin Cortinas and Gerald Divaris represented the landlord.

INTER-OP NET renewed its lease for 2,500 square feet of office space in Virginia Beach Town Center at 283 Constitution Drive in Virginia Beach. Michael Divaris, Krista Costa and Ashley Beck represented the landlord.

Subway renewed its lease for 1,300 square feet of retail space in Glenwood Shoppes at 8401 Hampton Blvd. in Norfolk. David Bickford represented the landlord.

No. 1 Chinese renewed its lease for 1,200 square feet of retail space in Broad Creek Shopping Center at 1261 N. Military Highway in Norfolk. Kris Fuller represented the landlord.

Harvey Lindsay Commercial Real Estate

AMP Global Logistics Inc. extended its lease of 40,000 square feet of industrial space at 115 Dill Road in Suffolk. Bobby Beasley III represented the tenant.

CoCo Beauty Supply renewed its lease of 11,318 square feet of retail space at 1733 Parkview Drive in Chesapeake. Susan Pender handled this transaction.

Ohio Valley Acquisition LLC renewed its lease of 2,500 square feet of office space at 1040 University Blvd. in Portsmouth. Kimberly Worley handled this transaction.

PPG Architectural Finishes Inc. renewed its lease of 6,700 square feet of industrial space at 1303 Ingleside Road in Norfolk. Chip Worley handled this transaction.

Kiln Creek Tailor renewed its lease of 1,000 square feet of retail space at 1213 A George Washington Memorial Highway in York County. Matt Leffler handled this transaction.

LifeStance Health renewed its lease of 3,917 square feet of office space at 580 City Center Blvd. in Newport News. Clark Baldwin and Bob Saunders handled this transaction.

Riddle Associates Inc.

E-Merge Systems LLC renewed its lease at 341 Cleveland Place in Virginia Beach. Lindsey R. Elliott handled the negotiations.

CACI Inc. renewed its lease at 124 Robert Hall Court in Chesapeake. Lindsey R. Elliott and Robb Riddle handled the negotiations.

TCI Mechanical Inc. renewed its lease at 620 Innovation Drive in Chesapeake. Lindsey R. Elliott handled the negotiations.

Leather Luster renewed its lease at 908 Executive Court in Chesapeake. Robb Riddle handled the negotiations.

Danella Construction Inc. renewed its lease at 1508 Technology Drive in Chesapeake. Larry Rumsey handled the negotiations.

Omni Psychotherapy LLC renewed its lease at 920 Ventures Way in Chesapeake. Lindsey R. Elliott handled the negotiations.

AFMCVA Inc. renewed its lease at 1170 Lance Road in Norfolk. Bill Brackman handled the negotiations.

Glasser Customs US Inc. renewed its lease at 1170 Lance Road in Norfolk. Bill Brackman handled the negotiations.

Do It Wright LLC renewed its lease at 3901 Garwood Ave. in Portsmouth. Bill Brackman handled the negotiations.

Quantra Environmental renewed its lease at 1170 Lance Road in Norfolk. Bill Brackman handled the negotiations.

Allied Research Technology Inc. renewed its lease at 500 Freeman Ave. in Chesapeake. Larry Rumsey handled the negotiations.

The Wood Group renewed its lease at 809 Live Oak in Chesapeake. Lindsey R. Elliott handled the negotiations.

RAZ Inc. doing business as Razorback Grill renewed its lease at 3737 Holland Blvd. in Chesapeake. Lindsey R. Elliott handled the negotiations.

Home Technology by Masters Inc. renewed their lease at 622 Innovation Drive in Chesapeake. Lindsey R. Elliott handled the negotiations.

S.L. Nusbaum Realty Co.

Your Pie exercised its option on 2,100 square feet of retail space at K&K Square Shopping Center in Norfolk. Maggie Spillane represented the landlord.

Dragon Restaurant extended its lease on 1,640 square feet of retail space at Colley Village Shopping Center in Norfolk. Pierce Jacobson represented the landlord.

Muse Hair Salon extended its lease on 1,400 square feet of retail space at Glenwood Square Shopping Center in Chesapeake. Maggie Spillane represented the landlord.

Nation Nails II extended its lease on 1,200 square feet of retail space at Wythe Creek Shoppes Shopping Center in Hampton. Pierce Jacobson represented the landlord.

State Farm Insurance renewed its lease on 1,200 square feet of retail space at Quarterpath Crossing Shopping Center in Williamsburg. Tyler Jacobson represented the landlord.

Scents extended its lease on 630 square feet of retail space at Suffolk Plaza Shopping Center in Suffolk. Chris Hucke represented the landlord.

And industry leaders view improvements in technology as another way to expand access to banking.

Chase Bank continues to expand its retail banking presence in Hampton Roads and expects to open at least 10 more branches by 2027, regional director Alfonso Guzman said.

“We’re big believers in our branches,” Guzman said. “We really believe they are the pillars of the community and they’re important parts of every community.”

Chase currently has two branches in Norfolk and Williamsburg and one each in Newport News and Virginia Beach. By the end of this year, Chase plans to open a second branch in Virginia Beach along with branches in Hampton and Chesapeake, Guzman said. The remaining five new branches will open between 2025 and 2027.

While Chase puts its digital focus on the forefront, Guzman said its branches are still a part of its strategy to meet clients within their communities.

“It’s not either/or,” he said. “We want to make sure that human-to-human interaction is still top of mind and a priority for us as we continue to grow.”

Dollar Bank has opened nine branches since entering the market, said Dave Paradise, senior vice president of Dollar Bank’s Virginia Division. Dollar Bank has 13 branches in South Hampton Roads, including four from its acquisition of Bank @lantec in 2017.

While Dollar Bank has no immediate plans to add branches, it actively looks for opportunities in low- to moderate-income census tracts throughout its markets, Paradise said.

“Technology has really improved access to banking services, which means that it is easier for people to bank with us in a way that is convenient for them,” Paradise said.

In an effort to help Hispanic and immigrant consumers, Chartway Credit Union, which has 16 branches in Suffolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake and Norfolk, opened its first fully bilingual branch in the state in Virginia Beach at the end of April.

And Fulton Bank launched a diverse business banking program designed to meet the needs of minority, women, veteran and LGBTQ business owners last summer. Fulton Bank operates five financial centers in Hampton Roads, including three in Virginia Beach and one each in Chesapeake and Newport News, spokesperson Steve Trapnell said. Last year, Fulton opened a commercial banking office in Norfolk.

“We are committed to making financing and banking products more accessible to groups that, historically, have been underserved,” Fulton Bank Chairman and CEO Curt Myers said.

Sandra J. Pennecke, 757-652-5836, sandra.pennecke@pilotonline.com

“I would talk about team-building, marketing, management and leadership and people were good to go,” she said. “But as soon as I started talking about money, it was like what are you talking about.”

Reddix, the founder, president and CEO of ARDX, a Norfolk-based health care management and technology consulting company, spends a great deal of time helping create economic empowerment for girls and women.

She serves as a business adviser to women through her Reddix Rules program and is the visionary behind The Mustard Seed Place, an entrepreneurial hub and women empowerment center in downtown Portsmouth. Her nonprofit organization Envision Lead Grow teaches young girls and women valuable financial literacy, entrepreneurship and leadership skills.

“If you line everything up, it’s all the same,” Reddix said. “It’s different ways of opening women’s eyes and minds to using their skill and will to build economic empowerment for their households.”

Three years ago, she created the RRFund Investment Club, a monthly safe space for women to discuss financial concepts. Reddix said women of color tend to have more difficulty accessing capital. Over time, she penned the book, “She’s Got the Power.” It shares the stories of 25 women from the group and their relationships with money.

The female fund members are now owners of a Hilton hotel in Chicago and angel investors in other women-owned businesses. Reddix heard from more women interested in joining the group, but with a cap of 100, it was maxed out.

So, Reddix and 35 of her partners from the RRFund created the RRFund Wealth Accelerator, a financial wealth and health program for women with 40 hours of financial education provided by The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America through Enoch Financial Group at the forefront.

“If we really want to grow businesses, households and communities, we have to get women more comfortable with talking about money,” she said.

The accelerator provides women with the tools and information to empower themselves and become sophisticated investors.

“We believe a woman who decides she is going to learn her value is a gem,” Reddix said, noting that is what each participant is called.

The 12-month program, which kicked off on Aug. 1 at The Mustard Seed Place, includes a mid-year in-person summit in March 2025 and an end-of-year retreat in January 2026. Additional cohorts begin every two months for the live sessions hosted on a virtual platform. The program starts at an introductory fee of $2,750 per person.

Participants apply what they learn to real-life scenarios and can explore what they can do in their households with one-on-one financial coaching. A licensed psychologist helps the participants with the emotional components of wealth, and a health coach advises them on improving their health and wellness.

“If women aren’t taking care of their health, it increases their rate of bankruptcy,” she said.

Goals for the program are set from Day 1. Reddix stressed that each woman becomes part of an encouraging tribe. Reddix isn’t afraid to admit that she’s made some mistakes along the way — both financially and in business — and she said they just made her dig in to learn more and teach others from her real-life experiences.

“We want women to feel that they belong at the table and when they are at the table, they have enough information to add value to the table,” she said.

For more information, visit rrfundwealth.com.

Sandra J. Pennecke, 757-652-5836, sandra.pennecke@pilotonline.com