TidewaterBiz The Magazine - March 2016 by Daily Press Media Group

a magazine ser ving business professionals | march 21, 2016 | edition no. 1 | tidewaterbiz.com

TIDEWATERBIZ

game changers 5 developments that are transforming the way we work, play and shop in hampton roads

6 TIPS FOR RECRUITING:

TAP THE MILLENNIAL TALENT POOL ON THE MOVE: PROFESSIONALS TO WATCH

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STRATEGIC PLANNING

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A B O U T T I D E WAT E R B I Z : T H E M A G A Z I N E

WELCOME TO TIDEWATERBIZ: THE MAGA ZINE ou catch up with the latest and breaking business news online at tidewaterbiz.com. You read the TidewaterBiz email newsletter over your morning coffee. You listen to the TidewaterBiz Business Minute on WHRV during your afternoon commute. Business professionals across Hampton Roads rely on TidewaterBiz for must-know business news, and we’re proud to be there for you at integral parts in your day. And now, with the inaugural edition of TidewaterBiz: The Magazine, you can flip through months’ worth of brainstorming, reporting, editing, photographing and designing to bring you, the ever-savvy business

WHAT’S INSIDE

TIDEWATERBIZ STAFF

Land that new job. PAGE 5

EXECUTIVE EDITOR shana gray EDITOR bethany bogacki

Hot jobs in Hampton Roads. PAGE 5

REPORTER tara bozick

How to recruit millennials. PAGE 6

CONTRIBUTOR susan smigielski acker

A young professional’s perspective. PAGE 7 A look at the area’s big developments. PAGE 9

DIGITAL SUPPORT tracey cooper EVENTS COORDINATOR se’e ra spragley

A look at co-working spaces. PAGE 23 Meet these movers and shakers PAGE 25

The cover image, a rendering of the arena slated for construction in Virginia Beach, is cour tesy of The ESG Companies.

professional, the area’s best business stories. In this quarter’s magazine, you’ll find insider tips

ADVERTISING ricky brown

Events calendar. PAGE 30

from a William and Mary professor on how to mobilize millennial talent — and that you may be overlooking a key pool of potential employees unique to the area. Our cover story gives you the rundown on five game changing developments as well as the developers, and the cash, that’s making it all happen. We also offer a look at co-working locations where small-businesses owners and freelancers can escape the home office; a list of new restaurants that will impress your colleagues and clients; plus a look-ahead to business events in the region you can’t afford to miss.

WHAT’S ONLINE Visit tidewaterbiz.com for business news and to sign up for the free email newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

Our devotion is to serving Hampton Roads professionals with in-the-know news that’s key to making educated and effective business decisions. And our magazine carries that torch. — Bethany Bogacki, editor

CONTACT US TidewaterBiz is a product of the Daily Press Media Group, located at 703 Mariners Row, Newpor t News, VA 23606.

WHAT’S NEXT

TidewaterBiz: The Magazine, is published quar terly.

Reach us at 757-247-4600, newsroom@tidewaterbiz.com, or adver tise@tidewaterbiz.com.

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Taraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in the business of keeping you in the know.

Your source for all local business news... delivered FREE. Business reporter Tara Bozick is dedicated to coverage of: n Up to the second business news (news every morning then throughout the day) n Great networking opportunities (network, learn, grow) n Quarterly print magazine (reach Hampton Roads business leaders directly)

ONLINE MAGAZINE EVENTS MOBILE

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ADVICE

Are you looking for that next challenge? A William and Mar y professor offers these tips to

The following jobs are expected to grow faster than others in the region from 2016-21. The list excludes jobs paying less than the $25,058 self-sufficiency wage.

LAND THAT JOB by tara bozick

tbozick@tidewaterbiz.com

tay open to possibilities. Know your strengths. Advocate for yourself and selfmanage your career. These are tenets Kathleen Powell, William and Mary executive director of career development, tells students to consider as they prepare to graduate in May. Whether you’re looking to graduate or taking your career in a new direction, Powell shares seven tips on how to land the job you want.

Narrow your focus It’s hard to find an anything job. Self-reflect on what you’re good at and what you like. If employers know who you are and what skillsets you want to use, it’ll be much easier.

Network Look at your college’s alumni directory. Figure out who lives here doing what you want to do, and get connected with them. LinkedIn is a good social media tool for this. For career changers already out of college, tapping your network is the best way to open doors and make inroads to a new organization.

Mind the details This means no typos or grammatical errors. Don’t mass-produce cover letters and resumes. Tailor them specifically to the company and position you want. Make sure your email doesn’t sound unprofessional. Leave behind the hot_stud@whatever domain.

Emphasize impact Describe your past experience in terms of how

1. Veterinary technologists/ technicians, 5.53% job change, 22 annual openings

you affected an organization or project. Don’t rehash job descriptions. For those changing jobs, be able to answer the “why did you leave your last position?” question with grace and professional decorum.

2. Medical secretaries 5.02%, 112

Prepare

3. Massage therapists,

Before the interview, which may be on Skype, get to know the company. Know its competition and financial position. Practice in mock interviews. Dress in a professional and polished manner. Bring extra copies of resumes or transcripts.

4. EMTs and paramedics, 4.53%, 105

5. Physician assistants, 4.12%, 30

Do you fit the culture?

6. Physical therapist assistants,

After meeting the boss and potential coworkers, ask yourself if you would mind being stuck in an airport for two hours with them. If that idea concerns you, that workplace may not be the best fit for you.

3.91%, 27

7. Medical assistants, 3.68%, 197

Follow up

8. Dental hygienists, 3.42%, 70

Don’t call if a company says no phone calls, but it’s OK to send an email to let employers know you’re still interested in a position. After an interview, send a thank-you card.

9. Residential advisers, 3.39%, 27

Bonus: Keep the job Powell shares what employers value most: Make sure your communication skills are up to par so employers will trust you to talk to clients. Be a team player. Don’t bring problems; bring solutions. Embrace technology. Know when to step up and take charge and how to prioritize and delegate work.

4.61%, 28

10. Physical therapists, 3.37%, 65 Source: Opportunity Inc. Hot Jobs Report as of Jan. 2016 2016 to 2021 change in number of jobs, annual openings

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ADVICE

HOW TO RECRUIT

Hiring employees of this generation comes with a special set of challenges

MILLENNIALS by tara bozick

tbozick@tidewaterbiz.com

2020, the generation born between 1980 and 1997 — roughly ages 18-36 — will become the majority of the workforce. And to get ahead of the recruiting game, Hampton Roads employers are already seeking the help of Ronald Sims, William and Mary senior professor of business administration. “When it comes to millennials,” Sims said, “their

expectations are much higher in terms of ‘What is the organization going to be able to do for me?’ ” At the end of the day, much of what employers do to attract millennials will attract all employees, Sims said. Millennials are just more vocal about what they want. Sims told TidewaterBiz during a recent phone interview that he advises employers to try the following tips:

Invest in your online presence

Engage them

Millennials grew up with technology and will research a workplace before ever applying. They value transparency. For instance, posting YouTube testimonials on why millennial employees like working there would carry a lot of weight. If an employer doesn’t have a robust website and social media presence, millennials may perceive you’re not a good fit.

Millennials are results-oriented. They want to give input, and they want to know the reasons behind decisions. Keep them involved and give ongoing feedback and recognition. For example, gather millennial workers in a task force and allow them to come up with recommendations on reducing millennial turnover. Then, follow through.

Tell your stor y Really think about who you are, what your brand is and what your values are. When it comes to ethics and integrity, what do you stand for? If you’re not committed to community service or the environment, millennials won’t even consider you. They’re constantly expecting you to live your values and walk the talk.

Understand money isn’t the only factor If pay can’t be negotiated, offer what you can in terms of professional development, student loan repayment, flexibility or work-life balance and the ability for employees to lead projects.

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Think outside four-year degrees Think about the skills you need in your workplace and what your ideal employee looks like. Many millennials in Hampton Roads are veterans or have certifications or two-year degrees. Plenty of these workers want to settle in Hampton Roads, while those attending universities are more likely to leave. These millennials are often left out of the conversation.

Millennials attract millennials Millennial workers want to live, work and play around people their age.

Millennials are more vocal about what they want, W&M’s Ronald Sims, above, said.

... AND HOW TO NURTURE THEM A YOUNG PROFESSIONAL’S PERSPECTIVE: 27-year-old chair woman of tHRive, a group connecting millennials, offers a look at what can be done to keep them local tHRive, the young professionals group of the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, officially launched with a kickoff party at O’Connor Brewing Co. in Norfolk last July that attracted more than 200 people. Six months later, the group counted 1,100 members. tHRive Chairwoman Julia Rust, a 27year-old Hampton resident who’s an attorney at Pierce / McCoy in downtown Norfolk, explains to TidewaterBiz how the program benefits Hampton Roads by giving young professionals a voice and a way to connect. This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Q: What is tHRive? A: tHRive is a program for young professionals to connect and find resources for growing professionally and personally. It’s a way that businesses in the community can also get feedback from young professionals. They can learn how to attract young professionals to this area and retain them and learn how to cater to what young professionals want in this area. The young professionals are going to be the business leaders in the future, so they need to know how to lead, and business leaders need to know how to mentor them.

Interested in joining? Membership is free for professionals 21-39. Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce membership is not required. Visit ypthrive. org to sign up for its newsletter.

the way our generation operates. That info is there for companies, so whether they implement it is up to them. Regionally though, to get someone to want to be somewhere, they have to be engaged. As long as there’s something that connects them to the region, then they’re going to be invested in staying. tHRive is a great way to engage those young professionals and make them feel like there’s a reason they want to be here.

what I’ve heard from current business leaders, they have a difficult time getting young professionals to commit to long-term service projects, but they’ll raise their hands immediately to show up on Saturday and do a food drive. The easy way would be to do those quick shortterm projects, but I think young professionals need to make the effort for long-term investments. — Tara Bozick

Q: What’s your advice on engaging young professionals? A: Millennials love service projects. From

Q: Do you think millennials like being engaged in leadership? A: I think young professionals are very motivated to advance in their careers. Everyone — especially our generation as millennials — really values work-life balance and making sure they’re in a career they’re passionate about. What I’ve heard speaking to current business leaders is young professionals are seeking more responsibility and management positions. Q: What does the region need to do to attract millennials? A: There are so many studies already on how companies can attract millennials with different benefits or different accommodations for

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rtieHsE Signs ProHpIe ND T

A Sampling Of

3 757.327.033

LEASE, SALE, AVAILABLE

SALE:

LEASE:

Nickerson Shopping Center

6,000 – 11,500 SF $10.00 - $14.00 / SF - NNN Retail Center anchored by ACE Hardware

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410 Lightfoot

Retail / Ofﬁce $11.00 / SF + Utilities

LEASE:

200 / 400 City Hall Avenue

AVAILABLE:

617 Regional Drive

34,568 SF “Cadillac” Industrial Building $2,650,000.00

SALE:

2365 2367 2041 Wolf Trap Road 18 Acres Heavy Industrial $550,000.00 NEW Price $400,000

SALE:

409 E Rochambeau Drive

Professional Ofﬁce Space $13.50 - $15.00 / SF

(757) 327-0333 1313 Jamestown Road, Suite 202 Williamsburg, VA 23185

12.58 Acres $599,000.00 Interstate Visibility

4329 George Washington Memorial Highway 6,600 SF Former Restaurant Sale: $875,000.00 Lease: $12.59 / SF – NNN

AVAILABLE:

1781 Jamestown Road

13,900 SF Retail / Ofﬁce building Investment Property Sale: $975,000.00 Lease: Competitive Pricing

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1715 Endeavor Drive

12,000 SF Ofﬁce/Warehouse Sale: $1,200,000.00 Lease: $6.75 / SF

www.CampanaWaltz.com 11832 Fishing Point Drive, Suite 400 Newport News, VA 23606

This information was obtained from sources deemed to be reliable, but is not warranted. This offer subject to errors and omissions, or withdrawal, without notice.

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GAME CHANGERS

GAME CHANGERS BIG DOLLARS AND BIG IDEAS SHAPING HAMPTON ROADS

by tara bozick

tbozick@tidewaterbiz.com

around Hampton Roads are bringing millions of investment dollars into the area, as well as raising the bar on the possibilities for the region. The long-wished-for sports and entertainment arena is closer to reality. Tech Center in Newport News has risen. The Cavalier in Virginia Beach is prepping for its revival, while The Main hotel and conference center is sprouting up through the downtown Norfolk skyline. Millions of dollars of investment are boosting expectations for apartment living across the region. These projects are game changers not only in their promise to bring new business to Hampton Roads, but in boosting the region’s attractiveness and overall quality of life. “Sometimes you have those special projects — the Cavalier Hotel, The Main and Tech Center — they’re special because we know as constructors and developers, we’re going to give the community something they haven’t seen before, and they’re going to be more valuable than the projects themselves as far as the community’s benefit,” said W.M. Jordan CEO John Lawson II, a partner in all three projects, and the lead on Tech Center.

Clockwise, from top right: the Cavalier Hotel in Virginia Beach; construction outside of The Main in Norfolk; the exterior of an apartment complex owned by The Breeden Company; the clubhouse at an apartment complex The Breeden Company owns; a sign at Tech Center in Newport News; and a rendering of the planned arena in Virginia Beach. These projects are boosting the region’s attractiveness. (Courtesy photos; Cavalier Hotel photo by TidewaterBiz staff )

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GAME CHANGERS: VIRGINIA BEACH ARENA

ndrea Kilmer, president and CEO of The ESG Companies in Virginia Beach, understands risk. In working a deal, the certified public accountant evaluates every possible scenario and makes sure to dot every i and cross every t. When she realized business folks from China seemed interested in a since-failed effort to attract an NBA team and build an arena — more unique than another office or retail development — The ESG Companies started taking a look at such a project internally in 2012. Could an arena — typically considered public infrastructure — use private money instead of public funding? Could an arena work without a major sports team? “This is our hometown. And we’ve watched from the sidelines — no pun intended — what has transpired with a possible team and really felt like when we started looking at the numbers, we had to convince ourselves before we even thought about going to the city,” Kilmer said. “Would this work? Is it a financially sound model?” Validation came when sports facility builder Mortenson Construction, stadium and arena designer AECOM and arena operator SMG all signed on, excited by a private model and its potential replicability. ESG had secured the interest of Beijingbased China Machinery Engineering Corp., which is heading up construction and procurement, and formed development entity United States Management. Through the relationship with CMEC, the project is expected to get a $170 million loan from the Export-Import Bank of China. Virginia Beach-based partners include architecture and design firm Clark Nexsen and S.B. Ballard Construction Co. By February 2014, the company submit-

ted its proposal to the city, which chose USM’s plan later that May. During a year-and-a-half time period, the company explained its plan to the city, civic groups and residents in more than 100 meetings. The largest conceptual hurdle was conveying the need for operational flexibility and creativity in making the arena work — such as with programming — because the company was assuming all the risk. A private facility can’t raise taxes if it has a shortfall, she explained. But isn’t it scary to take on all that risk? Kilmer said the excitement of such an impactful legacy project overcomes any potential fear, which she hasn’t felt. “You have a tendency to live and breathe a project like this. I’m always thinking about it,” Kilmer said. “We want to make the bottom line work.” Virginia Beach and USM finally reached a development agreement Dec. 8. Kilmer expects the loan to close this summer, which would allow for a groundbreaking at the end of this year and a December 2018 opening. Plans call for the arena hosting more than 150 events a year, including concerts and college sports tournaments, she said. The developer estimates that many events could translate into 65,500 hotel room nights a year for the region, helping the city’s goal of year-round tourism. “We don’t make any money until the arena opens,” Kilmer said. “We’re obviously extremely motivated.” While it’ll be built to accommodate either a NHL or NBA team, Kilmer can’t say for sure the facility will land a national sports franchise. Still, having an arena can make Hampton Roads part of that conversation. “We think this is a great start to hopefully fulfill what has been a dream to a lot of people in this region,” the lifelong Virginia Beach resident said.

You have a tendency to live and breathe a project like this. — Andrea Kilmer, left, president and CEO of The ESG Companies

Pictured across the pages is a rendering of the arena slated for construction in Virginia Beach. (Image courtesy of The ESG Companies)

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Entertainment and sports arena in Virginia Beach Developer : United States Management LLC, led by CEO Andrea Kilmer of The ESG Companies Capital investment: $200 million, $10 million working capital ($170 million loan from The Export-Import Bank of China, $40 million in equity) Virginia Beach contribution: $76.5 million in site improvements, 1 percent of hotel tax and all generated taxes rebated for 30 years (max of $476 million to pay debt ser vice and return on equity) Where: 19th Street across from Convention Center 15,500-18,000 seats 480,000 square feet 5.8 acres owned by city, leased by USM for 60 years Construction to begin 2016 for 2018 opening

Question for the CEO How have you been successful? Kilmer : I’ve never been afraid to make a decision. I personally own consequences. I won’t ask anyone to do anything I’m not willing to do myself. My personal ethics are such I think it’s important that people can trust you. To do that, you have to do what you say you’re going to do. That’s why we’re going to build this arena.

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GAME CHANGERS: TECH CENTER IN NEWPORT NEWS

Photo by TidewaterBiz staff

John Lawson II will tell you, he gets things done. Lawson, who has the lead on the Tech Center development and is a partner on the Cavalier Hotel and The Main projects, is not shy about investing with the right location where a concept can work. Like other developers, the president and CEO of W.M. Jordan Co. eyed the corner of Oyster Point Road and Jefferson Avenue as a prime piece of real estate in Newport News’ commercial corridor. Lawson knew that the busy corner would be well-suited for a mixed-use development. At the same time, he was aware that the Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility would need room to expand if it could successfully land a $1 billion ion collider, and local business leaders hadn’t given up on the idea that the area could host spinoff businesses from the lab.

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Newport News Tech Center

Question for the CEO

Developer : John Lawson II and W.M. Jordan with minority partner S.J. Collins

How have you been successful?

Capital investment: $450 million Newport News planned contribution: $36.65 million to move school bus facility and infrastructure improvement Where: 100 acres at Jefferson Avenue and Oyster Point near Jefferson Lab Marketplace at Tech Center, with 250,000 square feet of retail, opened fall 2015. 95 percent leased.

Lawson: Have an awareness of opportunities. Never restrict yourself and say you can’t do anything. Almost anything is possible. Use your imagination. Some of the best ideas come sitting on the riverbank on Saturday afternoon daydreaming or in a shower in the morning. When looking at an opportunity or a property, look at what you absolutely cannot change. Then look at the possibilities and then at what you might be able to do.

“Most everything I’ve seen that happens good in life is a fleeting moment of opportunity,” Lawson said. “If you don’t grab it with a laser focus and execute really quickly, it’s gone.” After buying the 44 acres at that corner from the College of William and Mary’s real estate foundation for $8 million in 2010, Lawson wondered if he could accomplish these goals in one campus, where retail and restaurants could help attract entrepreneurs and scientists by establishing a research park around the campus of Jefferson Lab. The Hokie, who served as rector of Virginia Tech’s Board of Visitors from 2008-10, envisioned Tech Center replicating the success of the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center in Blacksburg. With VTCRC on board in managing the park, Lawson got the support he needed. Newport News City Council approved the rezoning of the 44 acres in August 2013. The city promised 16 acres for the Jefferson Lab collider expansion and plans to move the school bus facility at a cost of $35 million to make way for the research park. “It’s one thing for us to create a vision we think will work, but to be able to explain that and have a public entity also buy into it — literally — and understand the vision, that’s tricky. It doesn’t always happen,” Lawson said. Time was of the essence, too, as Whole Foods was eyeing Newport News for a grocery store. Georgia-based S.J. Collins Enterprises was representing Whole Foods and had looked at the land for mixed-use previously. So W.M. Jordan brought on S.J. Collins as a minority partner in the Marketplace at Tech Center — the retail part of what would be a $450 million, 100-acre Tech Center project. Shops and restaurants began opening at the Marketplace at Tech Center, culminating with Whole Foods in November. In January, Illinois-based Inland Real Estate Income Trust signed on as Marketplace manager and an investor. In addition to filling the Marketplace by attracting other retailers, Lawson said he thought Whole Foods could legitimize the Peninsula as a place where folks want to establish and grow businesses because of how the organic foods-retailer conducts comprehensive market research. The future research park is already garnering interest from potential tenants, and Lawson believes the entire Oyster Point area can flourish as Tech Center comes online.

Most ever ything I’ve seen that happens good in life is a fleeting moment of opportunity. — John Lawson II, CEO of W.M. Jordan, who’s involved in three Hampton Roads projects

An aerial view of Tech Center in Newport News during construction. (Photo by TidewaterBiz staff )

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G A M E C H A N G E R S : C AVA L I E R H OT E L I N V I R G I N I A B E A C H

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ruce Thompson believed Virginia Beach could be more than a hot dog and hamburger resort. But he didn’t start establishing swanky hotels and upscale restaurants overnight. “Every time we just started notching it up a little bit more,” Thompson said. “We kept increasing our bet, if you will, on the market.” He realized Virginia Beach could up its ante after opening Mahi Mah’s restaurant on the boardwalk in 1994 after acquiring the Oceanfront Ramada. Folks didn’t hesitate to spend money on fine wine, sushi and buckets of seafood. Over time at the helm of Gold Key | PHR, Thompson changed the vibe of the Oceanfront with projects such as the $80 million Hilton hotel, the $75 million 31 Ocean mixed-use complex and the $50 million Hilton Garden Inn. Now, Thompson’s sights are set on redeveloping the historic Cavalier Hotel, built in 1927, with Lawson, who’s also involved in the Tech Center development, and other investors.

Thompson bought the Cavalier property, including a sister hotel and beach club, for $35.1 million in 2013 with plans to create a 21-acre resort complex that could reach national acclaim. “That building has been iconic to me,” Thompson said. “It’s kind of like the big hotel on the hill that all the rich people went to that always stood out in my mind as being a landmark for the city of Virginia Beach.” While the city is pitching in $18 million and secured $18 million in gap financing, the project is over budget. In September, Thompson told attendees of a hard-hat tour that the development team already spent $63 million, as the property was more dilapidated than anticipated. That’s in addition to the historic preservation challenges. Still, Thompson is committed to the future potential of his hometown. “Financially, it’s not the best deal I’ve ever made, but I’m going to be super proud of it,” Thompson said, adding, “I think if we are successful in creating that 21-acre resort complex, it really will be a destination that attracts new guests to the Oceanfront.”

The Cavalier Hotel in Virginia Beach Developer : Cavalier Associates LLC led by Bruce Thompson of Gold Key | PHR Capital investment: About $300 million Contributions: $18 million from Virginia Beach, $18 million in gap financing Where: 21 acres at 4201 Atlantic Ave. $6 million Beach Club meeting and event space with outdoor pool Projected openings: The Cavalier in late 2016/early 2017 and the new Marriott in late 2018

Financially, it’s not the best deal I’ve ever made, but I’m going to be super proud of it. — Bruce Thompson, developer of the Cavalier Hotel in Virginia Beach and The Main projects Pictured is detail from the Cavalier Hotel, left, and developer Bruce Thompson. “That building has been iconic to me,” he said. (Photos by TidewaterBiz staff.)

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G A M E C H A N G E R S : T H E M A I N I N D O W N TO W N N O R F O L K

Our intent all along was to build an iconic placemaker for Norfolk. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Bruce Thompson, developer of the Cavalier Hotel and The Main projects

The Main in downtown Norfolk Developer : Gold Key | PHR led by Bruce Thompson Capital investment: $165 million Norfolk contribution: $86.6 million, including $52.5 million conference center and $19.5 million parking garage Where: Corner of Main and Granby streets 23-stor y Hilton hotel with 300 guest rooms 3 restaurants: Grain roof garden and lounge featuring craft beer, Saltine street-level seafood restaurant with raw bar and Varia Italian restaurant with piano bar and wine lounge 42,000 square feet of net meeting space includes two ballrooms with 18,500 square feet and 8,500-square-foot signature glass atrium Opening: First quarter 2017

Question for the CEO: How to get a multimillion-dollar project done: Thompson: You have to have â&#x20AC;Ś 1. the track record, 2. talent in the organization, 3. vision, 4. a municipal government that provides the environment in which you can succeed, 5. financial resources, 6. commitment: believe in your idea and that your team can accomplish it without second-guessing yourself. At right is The Main, which is located at Granby and Main streets. (Photos courtesy of W.M. Jordan)

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imultaneously, in downtown Norfolk, Thompson — again with Lawson as a partner — is aiming to instill grandeur with The Main Hilton hotel and conference center complex at Granby and Main streets. Thompson wouldn’t have invested in the project if it couldn’t be an architectural statement and destination that could be as attractive to locals as national and international groups. “Our intent all along was to build an iconic placemaker for Norfolk,” Thompson said. Already The Main is attracting attention, with dozens of conferences pre-booked, he said. Thompson expects the rooftop beer garden and live music venue called Grain to be as much of a hit as the Sky Bar at the Oceanfront Hilton. “I doubt we would probably have had any of the opportunities with some of the public partnerships that we’ve done if the Hilton had been a failure,” Thompson said. “Truly, the Hilton has been a game changer

for Virginia Beach. It’s certainly changed the perception about what’s possible.” Lawson, also a partner in the Oceanfront Hilton and the Hilton Garden Inn with significant investment in the area, agreed. Developers need to show not only how the government investment can be repaid, but also how these projects can inject vibrancy in communities for future development, he said. Lawson pointed out that by the time these complicated projects come along, other pieces have already been put into place, such as Jefferson Lab and Oyster Point growth near Tech Center, and MacArthur Center and a revitalized Granby Street near The Main. Lawson and Thompson don’t land every deal. The ESG Companies’ proposal for the Oceanfront arena backed by private financing beat out their pitch, which relied more on city funding. Ego also plays a role in taking risks, Thompson said, adding he personally believes “you’re only as good as your last deal.”

John Lawson II and Bruce Thompson keep partnering up on big projects. Why do they team up so much? “Bruce has got a special talent for promotion and a great feel for quality,” — Lawson “John is a perfectionist. He truly appreciates quality and he doesn’t cut corners. … John brings discipline to the organization. I bring ‘hip’ to the organization.” — Thompson

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G A M E C H A N G E R S : B R E E D E N C O M PA N Y ’ S L U X U R Y A PA R T M E N T S

Examples of the amenities provided at some of The Breeden Company’s apartments. (Photos courtesy of The Breeden Co.)

Question for the Breedens What makes them successful? Ramon W. Breeden Jr., left: Business is people. It’s not bricks and stones and mortar. You’ve got to be patient with people. People have got to believe you’re going to help their problems. … You simply cannot micromanage a large business. Have a back door. Leave yourself a way out. The key, I think, to a successful business is you’ve got to enjoy it. C. Torrey Breeden, right: It’s where you think there’s a market, and you can market it better than your competition. You can’t wait for the competition to come on in.

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amon W. Breeden Jr. and son C. Torrey Breeden are changing how Hampton Roads residents think of apartments. “The amenities are getting nicer,” said C. Torrey Breeden, the Virginia Beach-based Breeden Co.’s executive vice president. “People are demanding that and paying for it.” The Breedens bring back cutting-edge ideas from research and their travels — finding inspiration from hotels and resorts to city streets — to give local renters unique apartment amenities. Think resort-style pools with sit-in benches, kids’ splash parks, outdoor living rooms and flat-screen TVs, grilling stations, bocce courts, community gardens, live entertainment stages and roofdeck misting stations for sunbathers. “As a developer, you explore ideas and bring them in if you think they’re going to work,” said Ramon Breeden, founder and CEO of The Breeden Co. Consumers are shifting from spending on possessions to experiences, and Breeden Co. is paying attention to renters’ desire to connect with one another. In addition to offering places to mingle, Breeden apartments provide programming including movie nights, live music and wine tastings. This resonates with millennials, who

comprise the majority of Breeden’s renters, said Peyton Tata, marketing director at Breeden Co. Other renters include folks who no longer want to deal with a house and mow a yard but still want better kitchens and high-end touches. “Being new and different is what kind of captures people’s attention sometimes,” Torrey Breeden said. This amenity-driven Breeden apartment was launched as an “enriched lifestyle brand” in 2011 with the groundbreaking of Breeden’s $80 million Cambria at Cornerstone near Virginia Beach Town Center. The $59 million Red Knot at Edinburgh opened in the same lifestyle format last year in Chesapeake. Construction is already underway to bring that style to the $34 million expansion of Eagle Harbor apartments in Isle of Wight and the $35 million Aqua on 25th Street complex at the Oceanfront, which is slated to open this spring. Aqua features Hampton Roads’ first indoor skydiving venue, iFly, which opened last February. Motivated by his skydiving hobby, Torrey Breeden partnered with Robert Pizzini to open iFly with the thinking that the venue would enable the military to train locally while giving tourists another attraction.

Being new and different is what kind of captures people’s attention sometimes. — C. Torrey Breeden

The Breeden Co. Breeden Co. broke ground on four apartment communities totaling 637 units with a combined investment of $112 million in 2015: $35 million Aqua on 25th Street in Virginia Beach (147 units) $20 million Parkside at Charles Street in Newport News (148 units) $23 million Harbor Vista at Crawford Street in Portsmouth (134 units) $34 million Eagle Harbor West in Carrollton (208 units)

Virginia Beach contributed a former city parking lot on 2.18 acres and is helping to pay for the $8 million parking garage and street improvements for a total 25th Street development investment of $55 million, Tata said. This spring, Tata said Breeden Co. is planning to break ground on The Marq, a $48 million enriched lifestyle community at Virginia Beach Town Center. Breeden Co. also sees demand for new housing in Portsmouth and opportunity with a city that’s pro-growth and business, Torrey Breeden said. Construction of the $23 million five-story Harbor Vista at Crawford Street overlooking the Elizabeth River in Portsmouth is underway in the enriched-lifestyle format. The company acquired Montgomery Square in Olde Towne Portsmouth for $7.7 million last year and is planning another luxury community next to the nTelos Pavilion

but isn’t expected to buy the land at the North Pier until 2017. “Portsmouth is a diamond in the rough,” Ramon Breeden said. So far, The Breeden Co. has developed 40 apartment communities and 20 commercial projects in addition to numerous single-family homes in Hampton Roads, and it is continuing to expand in Richmond, Northern Virginia and along the East Coast. The company started when Ramon Breeden built a house in Virginia Beach more than 50 years ago and now boasts more than $1 billion in current development in 15 projects, the founder said. “Our fingerprints have been all over Tidewater,” Ramon Breeden said. “I don’t know what’s around the corner. If what’s around the corner excites us and can make us money and we diagnose it, yeah, we’ll jump on it.”

Aqua on 25th is part of a $55 million project: n $12 million iFly indoor skydiving venue opened in Februar y 2015 n Virginia Beach contributed land, part of $8 million parking garage expense and infrastructure n Aqua apartment amenities include: saline pool, rooftop lounge, outdoor kitchen, on-demand bicycles and electric car charging Since 2014: $20 million reinvested in about 2,000 apartments and townhomes in Hampton Roads, including 863 units at Emerald Point in Virginia Beach Coming in 2016: Groundbreaking on $48 million The Marq at Virginia Beach Town Center with 264 units

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SPONSORED CONTENT

continued from page 21

For people who like a mystery, there is The Escape Room in Virginia Beach. General Manager Kristen Sill said for businesses that want to develop the company’s leaders or break the ice among a team, trying to figure out a mystery is a great way to do it. In one hour, teams are asked to observe their surroundings, search for clues and solve puzzles to find a specific item. It requires the group to think and work together. Doing team building in a place such as The Escape Room is fun and challenging. It increases synergies and improves communication. It also allows managers to simply observe how your team interacts, she said. “It also boosts morale and motivates everyone,” Sill added. The four different rooms are a series of games and puzzles for a final goal. “It forces people to use their mind and work as a team for the end goal,” she said. The Inheritance Room has the story line that a late rich grandfather left a $1 million inheritance check somewhere in his study. Partici-

ON BUILDING A TEAM

People that are usually shy will come out of their shell. Sometimes people show their true colors. — Kristen Sill, general manager of The Escape Room in Virginia Beach

pants must find it before time runs out. The Traveling Crook room is the only one where people must find their way out. A traveling crook has been tracked down to his home and has been locked inside his room. Participants have one hour to escape the room and catch the thief. The Con Artist requires participants to find a piece of art that was stolen and replaced with a counterfeit. In the mastermind’s unique art studio, participants cipher through different works of art to find the right artwork. Detention Hall has participants paying the price for misbehaving in class. Sill said the premise is that the teacher confiscated a student’s tablet. The teacher left the room, giving them the chance to leave. However, they must first find the tablet. For every room, an employee for The Escape Room, called a Game Master, is observing via a camera in the control room. If participants are

getting frustrated, the Game Master will offer three hints. The success rate for the room is less than 25 percent, Sill said. “It is interesting to watch the different ways people think. For example, an engineer will try a different approach than someone who does an administrative job,” she said. She said the time limit forces the team to work together in about five minutes. “People that are usually shy will come out of their shell. Sometimes people show their true colors. Many times, they surprise themselves,” Sill said. To book a team-building event with Dave & Buster’s, contact Sherry Venant, events manager, at 785-3500. To book a team-building event or participate in an escape with friends at The Escape Room, contact Kristen Sill, general manager, at 228-7577.

408 Investors Place, Suite 107 Virginia Beach, VA 23452 (757)228-7577 PAGE 22

TIDEWATERBIZ: THE MAGAZINE

RESOURCES

C O - W O R K I N G S PA C E S

SHARED SPACES HELP FREELANCERS, SMALL-BUSINESS OWNERS MINGLE A room in Work Nimbly’s space, which is located at 215 Ingram Road in James City County. The coworking hub is housed in a historic building that offers character and plenty of natural light.

Home-based business owners and business travelers may find refuge in getting out and working alongside other professionals in various co-working spaces that have popped up in Hampton Roads. Here are few places where you can find some office space:

Work Nimbly n 215 Ingram Road in James City. n Pay for daily pass, monthly pass or 24/7 monthly pass.

(Photo courtesy of Work Nimbly)

continued on page 24

OUR MISSION IS INTEGRITY FIRST! “Servicing Hampton Roads, One Client At A Time”

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SERVICES PROVIDED: ✔ Tax Preparation ✔ Business Services ✔ Tax Management ✔ Notary

562 Denbigh. Blvd., Ste B | Newport News, VA 23608 Call: 757-877-4829 or Fax: 757-877-0089 Email: info@incometaxplus.biz Ofﬁce Hours: Wednesday-Friday: 10am - 3pm | Sat by appointment only (Extended hours during tax ﬁling season) | Closed Sunday

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RESOURCES

C O - W O R K I N G S PA C E S

continued from page 23

n Conference room fits eight people. n After-hours meeting room can fit 20. n Office supplies, printer, Wi-Fi and free coffee, tea, soda and snacks n Regular networking and workshop events, art exhibits; historic property offers character, natural light. n 757-561-0005; WorkNimbly.com

Sprouthaus (formerly 757 Creative Space)

Another look at Work Nimbly’s space. (Photo courtesy of Work Nimbly)

“We are at your service…, Catering to our clients’ needs,

one plate at a time

n 259 Granby St., Suite 250, in Norfolk n Flexible and permanent desk pay plans n Hub for freelancers and entrepreneurs n 8,500 square feet, mixture of open workspace, conference rooms, classroom, private offices n 24/7 access, Internet, free coffee, break areas, Gym Downtown discount n Professional/business development workshops and social gatherings n Members have access to Skillshare online classes n 757-912-0006; Sprouthaus.com

Studio9 n 9 E. Mellen St. in Hampton n Pay for day passes/monthly leases for workstations or yearly lease for private office n Conference room, non-members can rent meeting space hourly n 24/7 access, Wi-Fi, break area with mini-fridge, microwave and coffeemaker n Quarterly social events with speakers n 757-723-7717; studio9workspace.com

Regus co-working at Dominion Tower

Proudly Offering Comprehensive Food Services To: Colleges & Universities Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities (757)244-1394 Sporting & Entertainment Venues Corporate Facilities www.generalmealsfoods.com PAGE 24

TIDEWATERBIZ: THE MAGAZINE

n 999 Waterside Drive, Suites 2525 and 2600, in Norfolk n Printers, scanners, copiers n Access to business lounge, administrative support n Regus also offers come-and-go Thinkpods in business lounges for hourly and daily work in Norfolk, 1545 Crossways Blvd. in Chesapeake and 780 Lynnhaven Parkway in Virginia Beach. n 757-777-3400; Regus.com

MOVERS AND SHAKERS

STIHL’S NEW LEADER: FOCUS IS ON PEOPLE Now that Bjoern Fischer has stepped into the role of president for Stihl Inc., based in Virginia Beach, his goal is to help the company csontinue down its current path of success by staying true to its values and focus on people. The South African native succeeds Fred Whyte, who retired as president at the end of last year and who will continue to play an advisory role. Fischer, who had a 20-year career with Siemens, joined Stihl in March 2012 and led the company’s financial operations, human resources and information services departments before becoming president Jan. 1. “I think Stihl is very focused on people,” Fischer said. “We think the business really

runs with relationships between people.” Stihl’s business model is based on not just selling quality outdoor handheld power equipment, but in supporting its dealers in a way that customers get a service along with their purchases, including learning how to use the products, as well as assembly and maintenance and repair. That’s why the company supplies mom and pop retailers over mass merchants and invests in its employees, Fischer said. Founded in 1926 in Germany, Stihl has continued to grow after 42 years in the U.S. with its equipment sold in 9,000 retail locations as of October 2015. The company

We Help Put the

Pieces Together

continued on page 27

Bjoern Fischer, above, has stepped into the role of president of Stihl Inc. (Photo courtesy of Stihl)

We offer a range of consulting services, all designed to help your company reach its full potential. Whether you’re looking for a small tweak or complete overhaul, we have you covered. Our services are available so you can get precisely what you need.

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11815 Fountain Way Suite 300 • Newport News VA 23606 Ofﬁce: (757) 926-5273 • jmaxwell@empowered.expert www.empoweredexpert.com TIDEWATERBIZ: THE MAGAZINE

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ENTERT

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S EW

for mo re than 100 years. INN

ce e th n t t e a r u o o f y i g t a n i ll t t u P

And weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re just getting started... at our new, centrally located office at 703 Mariners Row in City Center, Newport News PAGE 26

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS

continued from page 25 employs 1,900 workers in Virginia Beach and 200 more in its distribution branches. Fischer explains his role as a leader in a sit-down interview with TidewaterBiz. Q: How do you successfully lead an already successful company? A: That goes back to the people. I draw inspiration from the people around me. It’s all around understanding what they do, how they do it, what motivates them. It’s not so much about what the leadership team does, it’s what the employees are able to do and how we can support them and encourage them and motivate them. I think leading a company of this size when you have such a great team in place that is so dedicated to the company actually makes it pretty easy. It’s actually a pretty fun job. Q: What’s in store for Stihl for the next 40 years?

A: I think the best way of staying abreast of what’s happening is to just listen really well to your customers, to your industry peers and to other people that are in manufacturing, for example, or export products to other parts of the world. It’s a lot of dialogue, a lot of communication. Q: How does the customer focus translate internally? A: Customer support is a really important task and everyone knows it and understands it. So we try and not be a big corporation first. We try to be a support function for our local servicing dealers first. Q: What advice do you have for folks looking for more responsibility within a company? A: I think loyalty is obviously important, but it’s also dedication and hard work. It’s the good old virtues that make you successful.

WHAT ARE OTHER AREA LEADERS UP TO THESE DAYS? Museum names first chair woman The Mariners’ Museum and Park in Newport News said it added new board members and named its first chairwoman in the board’s 80-year history. Anne Conner, president of public finance and community investment at TowneBank, has been appointed chairwoman. Edward Whitmore, president of Norfolk Tug Company, was appointed vice chairman. The new board members include Kenneth J. Crofton, president of Crofton Diving Corporation; Margaret Podlich, president of BoatUS; and Jerry Miller, founder of Earl Industries and CEO of Fairlead.

— Tara Bozick

continued on page 28

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS

Dave Hansen named VB’s city manager

continued from page 27

Chamber elects board chairman The Virginia Chamber of Commerce elected Tom Palmer of Wells Fargo & Co. to serve as chairman of the board of directors. Palmer, Wells Fargo regional vice president overseeing central and eastern Virginia commercial banking offices, served as first vice chairman of the board in 2015. He succeeds 2015 chairman Stacy Mendler, chief operating officer of Alion Science and Technology. The board of directors elected 18 new members at the annual meeting, includMore online ing electing Dennis Treacy as first vice chairman. Treacy serves as president of the Read about more Smithfield Foundation. He has previously movers and shakers served as vice chairman of economic develat tidewaterbiz.com. opment with the Virginia Chamber. New Hampton Roads and Richmond board members include: Paige Clay, partner at Mercer in Richmond; Alan Witt, CEO of PBMares LLP in Newport News; Kym Wellons, associate general counsel of WestRock in Richmond; Teresa Beale, executive director of the Franklin-Southampton Area Chamber of Commerce; Billy Beale, president and CEO of Union Bank & Trust in Richmond; Karen Campbell, vice president for state government affairs for Verizon in Richmond; Clark Lewis, partner at Troutman Sanders in Richmond; and Jeff Ricketts, regional vice president of sales for Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Richmond.

The Maintenance Management Group

Virginia Beach City Council named Dave Hansen as the new Virginia Beach city manager. He succeeds former City Manager James K. Spore, who retired Dec. 31 after 24 years in office. Hansen’s contract is for two years. He will earn a salary of $250,000. Hansen was one of three deputy city managers in Virginia Beach, overseeing budget and management services, communications and information technology, finance, public utilities and public works. He joined the city in April 2006 after a 30-year career in the military.

Thomas Sarach Jr. to lead policy council Thomas Sarach Jr., president and CEO of Virginia Beach-based Reliance Staffing & Recruiting, has been named chairman of the American Staffing Association industrial section policy council. ASA is the national trade association representing the U.S. staffing, recruiting and workforce solutions industry. Sarach will work with ASA and its board to spearhead programs and services that meet the sector’s needs. Reliance Staffing and Recruiting, which was founded in 1982, serves major industrial manufacturers in Hampton Roads.

Sodexo names new leader Lorna C. Donatone of Virginia Beach will lead Sodexo’s North American operations and its schools business worldwide. Donatone will oversee 133,000 employees and all Sodexo business in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico. As CEO of Schools worldwide, she is responsible for a business segment with more than 3,500 client sites in 42 countries. Donatone first joined Gaithersburg, Md.-based Sodexo in 1999 and has held several key leadership roles in the company, including most recently the position of chief operating officer and president of Sodexo Education in the U.S. She has served as a board member of the National Restaurant Association since 2005 and in 2011 became a trustee of the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, where she is board chairwoman.

Museum names new chief curator • Daily Ofﬁce Cleaning Services • Restroom Sanitation • Floor Reﬁnishing • Light Fixture Cleaning • Carpet Cleaning Services • Furniture Cleaning Services

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Lloyd DeWitt is the new chief curator and Irene Leache curator of European art at the Chrysler Museum of Art in Norfolk. DeWitt succeeds Jeff Harrison, who retired in August after 33 years at the Chrysler. DeWitt, who is Canadian, has served as curator of European art at the Art Gallery of Ontario in Toronto since 2011. Though DeWitt is best known as a respected curator and scholar of 17th-century Dutch art, his interests range broadly from African art to 20th-century Canadian art. He worked for 10 years at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. DeWitt has taught at four North American colleges and universities and has led several conference presentations. — Compiled from company news releases

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N E W R E S TA U R A N T S

LET’S DO LUNCH (OR DINNER) Newer restaurants in Hampton Roads add to the region’s already eclectic menu It’s no secret that residents of Hampton Roads love to dine out. Fortunately, local restaurateurs keep providing folks with something new. Check out these newer restaurants, and be sure to send your suggestions to newsroom@tidewaterbiz.com.

n Mango Mangeaux: A Simply Panache Bistro | 757-224-9189 | mangomangeaux.com “Shark Tank” TV show veterans Lakesha Brown-Renfro, Tanecia Willis and Nzinga Teule-Hekima, known for their Mango Mango preser ves, opened Mango Mangeaux: A Simply Panache Bistro at the start of the year. Stop in Phoebus to tr y the French, Creole and neo-soul cuisines in a chic setting with rooftop dining available by reser vation. 33 E. Mellen St. $$

n Cochon on 2nd | 757-229-1199 | cochonon2nd.com The Williamsburg spot offers a rotating menu with seasonal local ingredients, specialty items cooked tableside and a chef ’s table experience for the culinar y-curious. Chef-owner Neil Griggs boasts more than 30 years’ experience, including at fivestar restaurants. 311-106 Second St. $$$

n Tupelo Honey Cafe | 757-264-4808 | tupelohoneycafe.com Find Southern cuisine and artsy decor in Virginia Beach Town Center. The Asheville, N.C.-based chain offers brunch and items including sweet potato pancakes, fried green tomatoes and countr y ham wontons. 4501 Main St. $$

n 1608 Crafthouse | 757-965-4510 | 1608crafthouse.com This Virginia Beach restaurant offers a contemporar y casual pub environment and farm-to-table menu featuring local products and regional craft beer. 1608 Pleasure House Road, No. 103. $$

n The Green House Kitchen | 757-452-5889 | facebook.com/ TheGreenHouseKitchen After opening the Grilled Cheese Bistro in downtown Norfolk, owner Dina Taylor opened this restaurant ser ving salads, soups, flatbreads and gelato next door. The local farm-to-table menu changes with the seasons. 345 Granby St., Suite C. $$

The Green House Kitchen ser ves salads, soups, flatbreads and gelato. (Photo courtesy of the Downtown Norfolk Council)

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

S E N D Y O U R E V E N T I N F O TO N E W S R O O M @ T I D E WAT E R B I Z . C O M

April n TidewaterBiz Lunch & Learn

n 2016 Economic Forecasting Project Breakfast

Noon to 1 p.m. April 6 | Courtyard Marriott Newport News Airport, 530 St. Johns Road in Newport News | $15

7:30 a.m. April 27 | Marriott Newport News City Center

Get the rundown on recent bestselling business and leadership books “Superbosses: How Exceptional Leaders Master the Flow of Talent” and “Sprint: How to Solve Big Problems and Test New Ideas in Just Five Days” during lunch. Sponsored by the Peninsula Jaycees.

Larr y “Chip” Filer, Old Dominion University associate professor of economics, will give a national economic outlook for 2016. Vinod Agar wal, ODU professor of economics and economic forecasting project director, will give the regional economic outlook. Reser vations required. Email or call Katrina Davenport at kdavenpo@odu.edu or 757-683-5138 by April 25.

n State of the City in Portsmouth

May

Noon April 13 | Renaissance Portsmouth Hotel & Waterfront Conference Center. $45 Chamber members, $65 non-members Mayor Kenneth Wright will highlight key business development initiatives, provide strategic municipal progress updates, address challenges and opportunities and provide a glimpse into the city’s future at the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce event.

n Home-based business lunch and learn

n Leading the Business of the Virginia Maritime

Industr y 5:30 p.m. panel, 7 p.m. reception May 5 | The Town Point Club in Norfolk

Noon to 1 p.m. April 13 | York County Chamber of Commerce, 4102 George Washington Memorial Highway, Suite 101, in York

Panel discussion organized by the William & Mar y Alumni Association on the Port of Virginia and economic development, connecting Virginia to the U.S. through transportation, importance of manufacturing and workplace safety and environmental responsibility.

Bring a bag lunch and enjoy free drinks and desserts. Learn from the keynote speaker, Q&A session, roundtable discussion and networking.

n Peninsula Executive Leadership Forum

n Eighth Annual MyTime Women’s Show

8-9:30 a.m. May 10 | Peninsula Workforce Development Center, 600 Butler Farm Road | $25

10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. April 16 | $7, kids free | Hampton Roads Convention Center

The Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce and Thomas Nelson Community College host a forum with President David Masterson of Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center.

The Daily Press Media Group hosts an expo-style event showcasing unique products, crafts and ser vices, along with a fashion show and puppy show.

n Ninth Annual Breast Ball Golf Tournament 11 a.m. range opens, 1 p.m. opening ceremony April 22 | Ford’s Colony Countr y Club | $125 per person, $500 per team | Sign up at breastballgolf. com, or call 757-645-2649, ext. 6 This tournament, a fundraiser for Beyond Boobs, attracts more than 300 golfers and volunteers on three courses. Enjoy golf, a dinner buffet, desserts, beer, live auction and after-party.

n insurExpo 2016 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. April 25 and 7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. April 26 | Downtown Richmond Marriott, 500 East Broad St. | $50 for one day, $75 for both

n State of the City in Suffolk Noon May 10 | Hilton Garden Inn Suffolk Riverfront Hotel & Conference Center | $45 Chamber members, $65 non-members This Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce event is the premier annual forum for interaction among Suffolk’s business, civic and community leaders. Suffolk Mayor Linda T. Johnson will highlight key business initiatives and a city outlook.

n Home-based business lunch and learn series Noon to 1 p.m. May 11 | Greater Williamsburg Business Incubator, 4345 New Town Ave., Suite 200, in New Town near Williamsburg Bring a bag lunch and enjoy free drinks and desserts. Learn from the keynote speaker, Q&A session, roundtable discussion and networking.

insurEXPO16 is the Independent Insurance Agents of Virginia’s new format for its annual convention. Find markets for your agency, cultivate new relationships and continue learning in various breakout sessions. Register at iiav.com.

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TIDEWATERBIZ: THE MAGAZINE

It’s a Party!

Join us for food and drink as we celebrate the launch of Tidewaterbiz the Magazine and also get a VIP look at the new Commonwealth at York.

Thursday, April 21st The Commonwealth at York Clubhouse 100 Legacy Way Yorktown, VA 23693 Business Casual 6–8 pm

*RSVP Online Tidewaterbiz.com/Party

*Space is limited

TIDEWATERBIZ: THE MAGAZINE

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Close everything far

At Commonwealth at York Apartments, you’ll live within walking and biking distance to shopping, entertainment and employment centers. Located in a prestigious area, our residents enjoy the easy access to the interstate and minutes from beaches and everything Hampton Roads has to offer. Award winning schools are just another extraordinary advantage of living at a community designed with your distinctive taste in mind.

from ordinary…

Commonwealth at York’s slogan is, “Far from ordinary.” For someone who has lived in Kiln Creek for the past ﬁfteen years I can personally attest, their tagline ﬁts them perfectly! The property itself is the most luxurious property in Kiln Creek — and on the Peninsula for that matter. Although it is still an under construction property, you can tell the property is going to be nothing but grandiose. Each day, I feel like I am stepping into the pages of a copy of Southern Living or Martha Stewart Living magazine when I enter my home. Each unit has their own personal touch — crown molding, granite, and stainless appliances are just a few of the in home amenities. You will not need a membership because the gym is certainly something to boast about! The pool and club house are amazing — I feel like I belong to a country club! Not to mention you have most of the amenities of the Peninsula’s most coveted community — Kiln Creek. The rent is unbelievably inexpensive — you have to see it to believe it! And the property is preposterously quiet! I see myself living here for a VERY long time! This is exactly the property Kiln Creek has been in desperate need of for YEARS! With all the luxury this property has to offer, their greatest asset (in my opinion) is their people. The property manager, Kim goes out of her way to please her residents. — Current Resident

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TIDEWATERBIZ: THE MAGAZINE

Take a peek inside of the newest luxury apartments in Yorktown and you will find hardwood-style plank flooring, extraordinary storage options, computer nooks, plenty of sunlight and more. Oversized apartments offer an endless list of interior features and community amenities fit for all lifestyles.

100 Legacy Way, Yorktown, VA 23693 757-969-1499 www.thecommonwealthapts.com Schedule a tour today!