CoVaBiz Magazine June/July 2016 by VistaGraphics

THE Business Magazine Of Coastal Virginia COVABIZ MAGAZINE JUNE/JULY 2016 n

VOLUME 1 ISSUE 1 $

SMALL BUSINESSES | BOB ASTON | BRYAN STEPHENS | PREMIER EVENTS

SMALL BUSINESS = BIG INNOVATION 15 LITTLE BUSINESSES WITH LARGER-THAN-LIFE IDEAS AT HOME WITH TOWNEBANK FOUNDER BOB ASTON

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BRYAN STEPHENS A CHAMPION FOR THE CHAMBER

EXPERT ADVICE HOW MUCH CAN I DO ABOUT MY EMPLOYEESâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA? PROFESSIONAL SERVICES COMPANIES YOU TRUST FOR YOUR COMPANY

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For the times you share that are

UNFORGETTABLE, we’re here to help you remember.

Pre-owned Rolex Watches

We put our customers first, BECAUSE MATTERS.

Fine Jewelry, Wedding/Engagement/Anniversary, Certified Loose Diamonds Repairs, Refurbishments, Custom Designs 5304 Providence Road, Virginia Beach 200-0609 • madison-jewelers.com W W W. C O V A B I Z M A G . C O M

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CONTENTS

FEATURE

38 Small But Mighty

Grand ideas, powerful ambition and big accomplishments come in small businesses. Compiled by Barrett Baker, Angela Blue, Jamie McAllister and Melissa M. Stewart

SPECIAL SECTIONS

58 Eye Care

Ready For Your Close-Up

61 Professionals

Serving Professionals

64 Continuing Education

Knowledge Is Power

DEPARTMENTS 6

Publisher’s Note

Editor’s Note

24 COMPANY HANDBOOK

BIZ REPORT

11 The Watercooler Trending topics and business news

14 Meet & Eat Aldo’s Ristorante

16 Dress For Success It’s about time

18 Pencil It In Upcoming business and networking events

20 Networking News A recap of recent business events

Ask the Expert #workplacewhining—How much can you do about your employees’ use of social media? FINANCE How can I ensure that my employees get a fair value from our 401(k)/retirement plan?

26 LEGAL How do I save my development project when the property is covered with wetlands? MARKETING/ BRANDING How do I write a strong LinkedIn professional headline?

BEYOND THE BIZ

27 Success Bryan Stephens creates optimal conditions for businesses to succeed.

30 At Home From humble beginnings to leading a billion-dollar company, TowneBank founder Bob Aston maintains his vision to serve others.

34 Family Business After 25 years, Premier Events continues to flourish through attention to detail, customer satisfaction and family teamwork.

66 Created in CoVa SwimWays

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THE FACES BEHIND COVA BIZ

FREELANCE WRITERS

63 Good Ideas to manage your finances and keep more of what you earn.

Barrett Baker is Creative Content Director at Raoust+Partners and Senior Writer/Editor at 2BCreative, providing freelance copywriting and editing services to local magazines and marketing agencies.

Are you Receiving Creative Ideas from your Advisor?

Idea #17

How to Contribute to a tax free Roth retirement account even if your income is too high.

Idea #27 Jamie McAllister is a freelance

writer in Virginia Beach. In addition to writing for publications, she also works with corporate and nonprofit clients. Visit her online at McAllisterWE.com.

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Why putting your Spouse on the Payroll (of your closely held company) can be advantageous.

Idea #61

How to improve your chances that your child qualifies for Financial Aid (or a tax scholarship) when applying to Colleges. I would be happy to share more of my ideas with you. 2247 W. Great Neck Road, Suite 201 Virginia Beach, VA 23451 phone: (757) 271-8824

Frank Moore brings over 30 years

of results-driven sales and marketing experience to his position as Account Manager with CoVa BIZ. Through the years, he gained experience and provided leadership within the consumer goods industry with several companies including 28 years with Associated Distributors where he was Vice President/Director of Sales for the last seven years. Frankâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to excel, along with his creativity and experience in building brands, prove to be an asset to his customers and make him a champion for new opportunities in CoVa BIZ. Contact Frank for advertising and sponsorship info. 757-213-2491, frank@CovaBIZMag.com

Donald S. Hannahs, CFPÂŽ and Founding Partner

For a free monthly newsletter or to learn more, please email: dhannahs@psgplanning.com

Securities offered through Triad Advisors, Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services offered through Planning Solutions Group, LLC. Planning Solutions Group, LLC is not affiliated with Triad Advisors. 2247 W. Great Neck Road, Suite 201, Va Beach, VA 23451

www.psgplanning.com

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

BIZ INTRODUCTIONS

elcome to the inaugural issue of CoVa BIZ, The Business Magazine of Coastal Virginia. This new product launch has been several years in the making. While we have long felt the need for a quality business-tobusiness magazine in our region, we wanted to ensure we were doing it right. We’ve been through focus groups of our target audience, and we’ve queried countless other business magazines from across the country. The result is what you are holding in your hand. Our target audience is you, our region’s best and brightest top level managers and owners. We recognize that you represent a very discerning audience and one that is also an enthusiastic consumer of magazine media. Our mission is “to present, in the highest quality print and digital magazine format, valued content that both reflects and enhances the business community in Coastal Virginia and the lifestyles of those who drive the success of these businesses.” Do you ever drive by a business and say to yourself, “I wonder who owns that,” “I wonder what they did to succeed,” “I wonder if I could make it.” CoVa BIZ will answer those questions by showcasing entrepreneurs starting new ventures; with profiles of professionals working to improve their business and performance; and by creating a forum for masters anxious to share their expertise. CoVa BIZ is “networking in print.” It’s a place to meet the business personalities in Coastal Virginia, to be inspired by their successes and to learn from their missteps. We look forward to bringing you many exciting features and special themes, starting with our next issue feature on “Leading Ladies.” This feature will honor Coastal Virginia’s top female business and community leaders. We will be opening online nominations soon for our October/ November feature on “Millennials on the Move,” focusing on the young leaders of our region, where they’ve come from and where they are headed. Ensuing issues will bring features on charitable businesses that impact our community, the “Best Places to Work,” CoVa Power Brokers and much more. Each issue will bring you expert advice from industry professionals who are leaders in their field, networking news, movers and shakers, tech news and the latest trending topics in business. CoVaBIZMag.com is the website affiliated with the magazine. Here we will interact with our readers on surveys, polls and nominations. It is also the home of our virtual version of CoVa BIZ. I invite you to share this virtual magazine with your friends and coworkers. We’re all very excited about this launch and so glad we can share it with you. I now consider you all one large focus group, and as such, I look forward to hearing your suggestions on how we can make CoVa BIZ even better for you. Happy Reading,

Randy Thompson, Publisher randy@vgnet.com

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CoVaBIZMag.com View our virtual magazine, submit networking events, connect with us on social media, and nominate Millennials on the Move for our October/November issue.

The CoVa BIZ Connection Sign up for our newsletter at CoVaBIZMag.com to receive business news, networking events and workflow tips.

Jeremy Domozick is a local business attorney who believes in taking a straightforward, simple approach to the law. He bills on a project or flat fee basis. If you’re interested in meeting to discuss your business, please call Jeremy at (757) 965-3747. Or, feel free to check out his upcoming seminar:

Contracts for Business Owners: Avoiding Common Mistakes June 22, 2016. 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM Meyera Oberndorf Central Library, Libris Room 4100 Virginia Beach Blvd., Virginia Beach, VA 23452 There is no cost to attend; however, seating is limited so please RSVP to (757) 965-3747

Areas of Practice:

Contracts • LLCs & Corporations • Purchase Agreements • Buy/Sell Franchises • Leases • Business Law • Succession Planning • Estate Planning

Jeremy J. Domozick, Esquire

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EDITOR’S NOTE

STARTING SMALL

n our very first issue of CoVa BIZ, we focus on a type of business that many people can relate to—the small business.

To start, what constitutes a small business? According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, it’s defined as having 500 employees or less. But to us (a little publishing company with approximately 40 employees in our office), 500 doesn’t feel small. So when we set the criteria for these 15 businesses, we concentrated on businesses with 100 employees or less that started in Coastal Virginia, are quickly on the rise and/or exhibit innovative ideas in their business concepts. The qualities that we found in these small business owners make us confident that their ventures will continue to thrive. These folks are hardworking, often putting in long hours and wearing many different hats. They’re highly motivated, not afraid to try new ideas, take chances or hear the word “no.” And they’re extremely passionate about what they do, ensuring that their businesses are steadily growing and evolving, while maintaining the original drive and excitement that inspired their entrepreneurship in the first place. Read about the obstacles they’ve overcome, the strategies that have elevated their accomplishments and the advice they’re eager to share with current and future small business owners, starting on page 34. Many factors contribute to the prosperity of a business, but it never hurts to have a strong support system. Bryan Stephens, president and CEO of the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, helps to ensure that local businesses—big and small—are provided the optimal conditions to succeed. He also collaborates with economic development professionals to ensure a strong, robust economy in Coastal Virginia (page 27). We also visit with Bob Aston, the esteemed CEO of TowneBank, who started small—in his garage, actually—and has built a vision into a billion-dollar company. We think you’ll be inspired by his humble beginnings and his continued ambition to serve others (page 30). Finally, we get a glimpse into the happy, hectic world of event planning with Patty Ritzi and her husband, Lional Teed, of Premier Events. Premier celebrates their 25th anniversary this year, and Ritzi shares some details that contribute to their business’s popularity—as well as how to make it work when you’re working with family (page 34). We hope you’ll enjoy our first issue, and we welcome your feedback or suggestions on additional businesses or leader profiles that you’d like to see inside the pages of CoVa BIZ. Because it’s not just our business—it’s your business, too.

Angela Blue, Editor-in-Chief Angela@CoVaBIZMag.com

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ABOUT US THE Business Magazine Of Coastal Virginia ®

1264 Perimeter Parkway, Virginia Beach, Virginia 23454 757-422-8979 • www.CoVaBIZMag.com Publisher Randy Thompson Editor-in-Chief Angela Blue Senior Editor, Special Sections Melissa M. Stewart Senior Editor, Food and Wine/ Culinary Events Manager Patrick Evans-Hylton Assistant Editor, Web Anne Leonard Contributing Writers Barrett Baker, Jamie McAllister

Sales

Vice President of Sales & Distribution Paul Brannock

Account Executive Frank E. Moore Contributing Account Executives Christie Berry, Tony Conti, Brenda Whitlow, Gardner Winstead Customer Service Representative Kiara Davis Associate Account Executive Kendall Burns Lead Sales Graphic Artist Paul Cenzon

Production

Vice President of Production Holly Watters Creative Director & Lead Designer David Uhrin Associate Art Director Matt Haddaway Client Relations Manager Stacy Graef Contributing Designers Josh Haralson, Stephanie Martinec, Christina Sinclair, Don Spencer, Kaye Ellen Trautman, Brian Woelfel

Web Design and Development

Web Creative Director Chris Murphy Senior Web Developer Brandon Litchfield Web Developer Caleb Whitehead SEO Analyst Michael Saks Internet Marketing Consultant William Warford

Marketing

Director of Marketing Lisa Davenport Web Marketing & Promotions Manager Kathryn Kelly Online Content Editor Rebekah Mulford

Photography

Director of Photography & Photo Editor Jim Pile Photo Editors Christina Sinclair, Jim Pile Contributing Photographers Angela Blue, Angela Douglas, Jeff Moore, David Uhrin Circulation Manager George Carter Special Events & Style Coordinator Pamela Hopkins COVABIZ Magazine is published by

VistaGraphics Staff

Controller Anita Burns Accounting Manager Dawn Meehan Accounting Clerk Kelsey Stephens Production Manager Robin Cather Office Manager Tracy Thompson Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content without permission is prohibited. Opinions in the magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent management views. Contributing photography supplied by Thinkstock.com MEMBERSHIPS: GHENT BUSINESS ASSOC., OLDE TOWNE BUSINESS ASSOC., TIDEWATER BUILDERS ASSOC., VIRGINIA PENINSULA HOUSING & BUILDERS ASSOC., HAMPTON ROADS REALTORS ASSOC., VIRGINIA BEACH RESTAURANT ASSOC., RETAIL ALLIANCE, HAMPTON ROADS CHAMBER, VIRGINIA PENINSULA CHAMBER, EASTERN SHORE OF VIRGINIA CHAMBER, FRANKLIN/ SOUTHHAMPTON AREA CHAMBER, ISLE OF WIGHT/SMITHFIELD/WINDSOR CHAMBER, WILLIAMSBURG AREA CHAMBER, GLOUCESTER COUNTY CHAMBER, YORK COUNTY CHAMBER, WILLIAMSBURG AREA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS

For advertising and sponsorship info: Please contact Frank Moore at 757-213-2491 or at frank@CovaBIZMag.com

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Making Corporate Events aWork of Art

Corporate Event Planning & Complete Production Themed Decor, Entertainment, Interactive Activities, Planning and Production Service, Equipment Rentals... and more...

Call today for a complimentary estimate of your next event! (757) 340-2212 â&#x20AC;˘ www.premiereventsinc.com

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BIZ REPORT LUXURY AUTOMOBILE

Maserati Unveiled in Virginia Beach

evante, Maseratiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first ever SUV, appeared in Virginia Beach on May 13 at Charles Barker Maserati of Virginia Beach. The Italian, 100 percent Maserati and 100 percent SUV will be launched into the market later this summer and will be available at dealerships in September. The 345 horsepower Levante can be purchased for a starting price of $72,000 or the 424 horsepower Levante S with a starting price of $83,000. Learn more at Maserati.com. W W W. C O V A B I Z M A G . C O M

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BIZ REPORT | THE WATERCOOLER

HIGH SCHOOL EDUCATION

STIHL GIVES STUDENTS FIRSTHAND MANUFACTURING EXPERIENCE

igh school students can attend STIHL Inc.’s Manufacturing Technology Summer Camp (July 26–30) to learn the skills to design and build products. The four-day program is held at the STIHL Inc. headquarters in Virginia Beach and offers hand-on activities for teens to experience what it’s like to work in the manufacturing industry. During previous camp sessions, students were divided into teams, then taught how to operate machinery and build products, as well as the best approach to manufacture those products. The camp session concludes as teams are judged on their process to build the products and their approach to manufacturing them. Judges have included community leaders, such as college professors and a representative from the Virginia Beach City Police Department, among many others. Winning team members will receive up to $1,000 in scholarship funds from the Virginia Industry Foundation. For more information about the summer camp, visit StihlUSA.com.

HONORING SMALL BUSINESSES

TECHNOLOGY

ANNUAL SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED

GLOUCESTER NAMED A VIRGINIA MAIN STREET COMMUNITY

SENATOR STEPS INTO VIRTUAL REALITY

For over 30 years, the Hampton Roads

In late March, Gloucester became one

nearly three dozen entrepreneurs at Sprouthaus in Downtown Norfolk to discuss the “entrepreneurial ecosystem” in Coastal Virginia. With technology as a key topic during the meeting, the senator then participated in Booz Allen Hamilton’s first virtual reality demonstration in Virginia. The 3-D tech demonstration involved a full Air Force MC130 replica with an HTC Vive Virtual Reality system and Unity game engine; the model is being used to highlight Booz Allen Hamilton’s Virtual Reality Space. To learn more about Booz Allen Hamilton, visit BoozAllen.com.

Chamber of Commerce and the Small Business Development Center of Hampton Roads have commemorated and awarded the area’s small businesses. Small Business of the Year Awards are allotted to a business chosen from each Hampton Roads Southside city along with one from the Peninsula. Businesses are evaluated on community involvement, business plan and history, growth, customer service and satisfaction, staff training and motivation and financial performance. Winners for each city included Retnauer Baynes Associates, LLC. (Chesapeake), Mid Atlantic Maritime Academy (Norfolk), Commonwealth Exterminating Company, Inc. (Peninsula), Smiley’s Heating & Cooling (Portsmouth), Suffolk Eye Physicians & Surgeons (Suffolk) and Image Business Interiors (Virginia Beach). In addition, the G&W Leadership Award honored Shannon Kane, EWR Management Group’s president and chief marketing partner. The two Young Entrepreneur Award (YEA!) finalists were Max Greenhood, RocketBike’s president and creative director, and Hatch Founder Zack Miller. Visit HamptonRoadsChamber.com to learn more about the Small Business of the Year Awards.

ROAD RECOGNITION

C O VA B I Z

of four counties added to the list of designated Virginia Main Street communities, along with Danville, Lexington and Wytheville. With one mission in mind, the union of Gloucester’s Main Street Trust and Association, tourism department and economic development department, contributed to this treasured designation. Planning for many years, the trust introduced a façade grant program as well as an interior grant program to assist and launch Main Street businesses. This recognition opens doors for Gloucester to receive grants and resources for county projects and programs and assists in training staff with marketing strategies to attract visitors to the area. Virginia Main Street Communities are recognized by their historic architecture, attractions, unique businesses, events and overall charm; each is reflective of the town’s history. To learn more about Gloucester, visit GloucesterVa.info or GloucesterVaChamber.org.

In April, Senator Mark Warner gathered

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BIZ REPORT | THE WATERCOOLER

HEALTH

NEW STUDY SHOWS DEMENTIA RESIDENTS BENEFIT FROM TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM AS MEDICATION USE DECREASES

n partnership with Eastern Virginia Medical School and Virginia Wesleyan College, the residents of the Hoy Nursing Care Center at Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay participated in The Birdsong Initiative. Birdsong is a study in which residents whose dementia makes it difficult to participate in social activities used in-room computers to Vice President, access enriching content customized to their interests and cognitive ability. Commercial Division After 24 weeks, studies showed that touchscreen technology significantly decreased dementia residents’ need for antipsychotic medications. One group of 31 residents with Office: 757-222-2415 dementia used computers equipped with content that was specific to their interests and Cell: 757-286-4080 intellectual abilities, while another group of 31 residents with dementia participated in ldecoste@fultonbank.com therapeutic recreation programs without computers. At 12 weeks, the two groups switched roles so that each was exposed to the touchscreen technology that’s geared toward seniors. During the computer sessions, student interns guided the residents for 5 hours each week. To their surprise, the residents desired to use the technology on their own for nearly 31 additional hours each week. Birdsong is just the beginning of what Westminster-Canterbury CEO Ben Unkle hopes to be an ongoing journey of discovery to improve the aging process. “We know engagement is the answer, and we need more creative application of this essential truth.” For more information about The Birdsong Initiative, visit WcBay.com/Birdsong.

Lisa A DeCoste

NAME CHANGE

TFA BENEFITS NOW NAMED ‘TOWNE BENEFITS’

TFA Benefits, a leading insurance agency in Virginia and North Carolina, changed its name to Towne Benefits in May. Ten years ago, the firm was acquired by TowneBank. Since then, the com-

pany has evolved and expanded across multiple markets, and the new name further speaks of the company’s evolution. The insurance agency continues to spearhead the insurance world with its

commitment to answering clients’ challenging questions about health coverage and all of the avenues related, such as wellness initiatives. For more information, visit TowneBenefits.com.

HIGHER EDUCATION

SIGNED ADMISSION AGREEMENT INCREASES OPPORTUNITIES FOR VIRGINIA WESLEYAN COLLEGE STUDENTS TO ENROLL IN EASTERN VIRGINIA MEDICAL SCHOOL’S GRADUATE PROGRAMS

s of March 22, Virginia Wesleyan College and Eastern Virginia Medical School have partnered to provide VWC students with admission preference to EVMS’ graduate programs. With the new EVMS Early Assurance Program, VWC students can pursue advanced degrees in eight fields: Physician Assistant, Surgical Assisting, Contemporary Human Anatomy, Laboratory Animal Science, Pathologist Assistant, Art Therapy, Biotechnology and Public Health. Students interested in the Early Assurance Program must receive academic advising geared toward EVMS and complete a program with scientific and service involvement while at VWC. Candidates can apply for the program during their junior year, and if selected, they’re notified of EVMS admission during their senior year at VWC. To learn more about the program, visit VWC.edu or EVMS.edu. W W W. C O V A B I Z M A G . C O M

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BIZ REPORT | MEET & EAT

MEET & EAT

Aldo’s Ristorante By Angela Blue

cheduling a lunch meeting shouldn’t mean sacrificing quality or atmosphere. It’s an opportunity to discuss important details, but it’s also time to eat; and that time should always be enjoyed. At Aldo’s Ristorante in Virginia Beach, the only aspect customers may find themselves compromising on is whether to share dessert—or just order two. Conveniently located in La Promenade Shoppes, Aldo’s occupies a central space with ample parking. Inside, guests will appreciate a pristine and comfortable atmosphere that’s relatively quiet and conducive for discussing details at lunch. Since 1988, Aldo’s has been serving immensely satisfying, authentic Italian cuisine, and much like their exceptional wines, they’ve only gotten better with age. Co-owners Jim Farsi and Deborah Kassir were part of the original team, and later on, they brought in another partner, Rob Unger, a general manager and level 2 sommelier, who heads Aldo’s award-winning wine program. “We have a welltrained, professional staff that can help select a glass or bottle of wine if you’re celebrating during your business lunch,” Kassir notes. My colleague and I are promptly situated at a comfortable table with booth-style seating, allowing us plenty of room to spread out. Silverware carefully placed and black cloth napkins perfectly folded, we’re ready to order.

C O VA B I Z

If you’re feeling particularly ravenous—as we both are—you’ll want to start with an appetizer. Jumping right into the Italian spirit of the afternoon, we settle on the Roasted Red Pepper Rolls, stuffed with fresh goat cheese, served over homemade basil pesto sauce and topped with bread crumbs. A varied selection of lighter and heartier dishes abounds throughout their menu. “We have wonderful, dinner-sized portion salads,” Kassir suggests. “Or you can go for the gusto and have a filet.” We achieve a fine balance by going a little light and a little robust.

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BIZ REPORT | MEET & EAT

The Grilled Salmon Salad presents a beautiful medley of colors and bright flavors, incorporating red onion, grape tomatoes, carrots, a hard-boiled egg and tenderly grilled salmon served over mixed greens and topped with a sprig of fresh dill and citrus vinaigrette. The Cape Henry Crabmeat Cappellini is piled high with jumbo crabmeat, artichoke hearts and sundried tomatoes soaked in a light, buttery stock and finished with a splash of sherry. There are plenty of options available aside from pasta, too, including a fresh and local fish of the day, excellently prepared a number of ways. To finish the meal, dessert is a must for us, and the delicate Napoleon proves to be a divine option. An exquisite, velvety cream is layered between sheets of flaky pastry crust. The confection is carefully placed atop an artful chocolate drizzle and blanketed with powdered sugar. And if there’s any debate on dessert, skip the discussion and just order two. Aldo’s is located at 1860 Laskin Rd., Virginia Beach. Call 757-491-1111, or visit AldosVB.com to learn more. Meeting with a larger group? Aldo’s has a private room that seats lunches and meetings for 12–50 people. In addition to their regular menu, lunch and dinner specials are available as well.

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BIZ REPORT | DRESS FOR SUCCESS

DRESS FOR SUCCESS

IT’S ABOUT I

n the digital age of knowing precisely what time it is by simply glancing at our phones, watches have become more than a timepiece; they’re a statement— an intricately crafted and admired piece of horological technology. And while it really all boils down to telling time, watches tell much more than that, offering a small glimpse into the personality and successes of the wearer. And for those preferring to keep a piece of automated technology on their wrist—well, there’s a watch for that. —AB

C O VA B I Z

Apple Watch Never miss a notification with Apple’s innovative yet stylish piece of wearable technology. With just a turn of the wrist, the wearer can easily communicate with the convenient talk-to-text function, stay on task with appointments or incoming calls with a simple wrist tap and monitor the activity of every movement with a report of everything from heart rate to calories burned. Prices vary. Available at Apple.

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BIZ REPORT | DRESS FOR SUCCESS OPPOSITE PAGE (TOP LEFT) Silhouette Crystal Fashionable and precise, this Citizen Eco Drive ladies’ rose chronograph with crystal bezel watch creates an appeal unlike any other with Swarovski® crystals featured on the bezel and dial. From Goodman & Sons Jewelers in Hampton and Williamsburg, $375. World Chronograph A-T The ideal timepiece for the avid world traveler, this Citizen Eco Drive men’s twotone watch features atomic timekeeping in 26 time zones, 1/20-second chronograph measuring up to 60 minutes, perpetual calendar, 12/24-hour time, power reserve indicator, day and date. It’s crafted with rose gold two-tone stainless steel case and bracelet with dial featuring rose gold-tone accents and sapphire crystal. From Goodman & Sons Jewelers in Hampton and Williamsburg, $650. Circle of Time This Citizen Eco Drive ladies’ watch encompasses all the opulence and style of the Citizen L series. Brilliant sparkling diamonds, mother-of-pearl dial and playfully positioned indices are just a few of the luxurious features. From Goodman & Sons Jewelers in Hampton and Williamsburg, $595.

THIS PAGE (ABOVE LEFT) The Classic Watch of Reference The Rolex Datejust is the modern archetype of the classic watch, thanks to aesthetics and functions that transcend changes in fashion. Aesthetically, the Datejust has spanned eras, while retaining the enduring codes that make it, notably in its traditional versions, one of the most recognized and recognizable of watches. This ladies’ Rolex Datejust features automatic movement, Roman numerals and stainless steel bracelet with white gold bezel, second hand and date. From Madison Jewelers in Virginia Beach, $5,395. THIS PAGE (ABOVE RIGHT) The Watch of the Open Seas The Rolex Yacht-Master is revered for its casual yet purposeful allure. The large hour markers and broad hands are reserved for Professional models and remain extremely readable in all situations. The Yacht-Master is at home on deck on the open sea as well as on land in an elegant yacht club lounge. Prominent features include the officially certified chronometer self-winding movement and stainless steel bracelet with platinum bezel, second hand and date. From Madison Jewelers in Virginia Beach, $6,495. W W W. C O V A B I Z M A G . C O M

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BIZ REPORT | PENCIL IT IN

June/July Events CONGRESSIONAL UPDATE: U.S. CONGRESSMAN J. RANDY

JUNE 1: This event will feature the presentation of the U.S. Chamber Spirit of Enterprise Award. This award is given annually to Congressional members based on their votes on critical business legislation. Registration required. Free. 10–11 a.m. Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, Hampton. VaPeninsulaChamber.com

CHAMBER CONNECT

JUNE 1, 14; JULY 6, 12, 20: Meet with fellow Chamber members and build business relationships. Registration for members only. June 1 and July 6, Chesapeake. June 14, Norfolk. July 12, Virginia Beach. July 20, Portsmouth/ Suffolk. 757-664-2504. Events. HamptonRoadsChamber.com

B2B LIVE

JUNE 1, 15: Business-tobusiness professional networking event. Register on MeetUp. com. 1 p.m. PNC Bank Building, Norfolk. PilotOnline.com

SAND KICKBALL TOURNAMENT 2016

JUNE 2: Teams compete for Grand Sand Kickers’ Cup to be awarded at the Main Stage at King Neptune’s Park during Beach Bash. Neptune’s Park, Virginia Beach. 757-664-2561. Events.HamptonRoadsChamber. com

BEACH BASH 2016

JUNE 2: Colleagues and friends mingle with business exhibitors to learn more about their services and products in this Virginia Beach tradition. Bash will also include food, adult beverages, entertainment and a drawing for VIP tickets to Sam Hunt at the Virginia Beach Patriotic Festival. 4–7 p.m. Neptune’s 31st Street Park, Virginia Beach. 757-664-2537. Events. HamptonRoadsChamber.com

CURBSIDE CONSULTING JUNE 3: Registration required. Free. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, Hampton. VaPeninsulaChamber.com

C O VA B I Z

JUNE 3: Learn how Sumitomo transformed its U.S. operation from an assembly center to an assembly facility. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Cavalier Industrial Park, Chesapeake. 757-382-8040. PilotOnline.com

BIZCONNECT HAMPTON ROADS MEMBER MEETUP JUNE 3, 24: Email Laura@ MyBizPPL.com to attend as a guest. 8:30–9:30 a.m. June 3, Creative Wedge, Virginia Beach. June 24, University of Phoenix, Virginia Beach. BizConnectHR. com

EMPOWERING WOMEN IN DESTINY

JUNE 7: Bring your personal business cards and brochures for a breakfast buffet and meeting for you to connect and network with other women. $12.95. 7:45–9:30 a.m. The Founders Inn Swan Terrace, Virginia Beach. Eventbrite.com

TECHNOLOGY TUESDAY

JUNE 7: Exposition of various adaptive technology vendors, workforce development counselors and state departments that are looking to employ people. Free. 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch Library, Norfolk. Eventbrite.com

ON THE

Stephen Ballenger is the new Stihl Inc. Vice President of Operations in the United States, responsible for all production operations at Stihl’s corporate headquarters in Virginia Beach.

THE SUMITOMO DRIVE TECHNOLOGIES 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

Baricia “Bree” Bever has joined the Newport News Tourism Development Office as its new Web and Social Marketing Coordinator. Bever will be responsible for coordinating and implementing web-based marketing strategies to promote public awareness of and increase visitation to Newport News.

Victoria Dietz has been promoted to Vice President at The Curtis Group, a consultant to nonprofits. Dietz is responsible for a variety of clients’ planning studies, trainings and campaign management.

TCE 1ST TUESDAYS CAREER AND BIZ SHOWUP

JUNE 7: “How Bad Do You Want It, Part II.” 6:15–8:30 p.m. Aloft WXYZ Lounge and Bar, Chesapeake. Eventbrite.com

CBDA ANNIVERSARY LUNCHEON

JUNE 9: State of the Central Business District Association Report. 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. The Westin Virginia Beach Town Center. TheCBDX.com

BIZCONNECT HAMPTON ROADS COCKTAILS AND CONNECTIONS

JUNE 9: An evening networking mixer that connects the business community, business owners, entrepreneurs and potential new clients. RSVP by emailing Laura@MyBizPPL.com. Free. 6–7 p.m. Town Point Club, Norfolk. PilotOnline.com

ANNUAL SUMMER BASH JUNE 11: The Annual Summer Bash celebrates an amazing year of Entrepreneurs’ Organization with a social meeting. Top Golf, Virginia Beach. EONetwork.org

ENTREPRENEURIAL EXCELLENCE AWARDS

JUNE 13: Presented by Inside Business. Founders Inn, Virginia Beach. $45. 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. InsideBiz.com/Events

Stacie M. Hogan has been promoted to Assistant Vice President at TowneBank’s headquarters in Suffolk. Hogan, who is part of the human resources team in Suffolk, has been with TowneBank for seven years. George Hughes with Hampton Roads Mechanical of Virginia (Chesapeake) was honored by the Professional Construction Estimators

Association of America Inc. with the Newsletter of the Year Award during the Association’s annual conference in Asheville, N.C. Michael J. Levens joined Kalfus & Nachman as an associate attorney. Levens was previously the magistrate for the City of Lynchburg and adjunct professor at Liberty University School of Law.

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BIZ REPORT | PENCIL IT IN

BUSINESS CONNECTION AFTER HOURS JUNE 16: Tidewater Physical Therapy, Inc. and The Health Journal will meet at Tidewater Physical Therapy’s Oyster Point Clinic, Newport News. Register online. 5–7 p.m. 757-325-8162. Business. VirginiaPeninsulaChamber.com

GOLF OUTING 2016

JUNE 16: Connect with colleagues on the greens. Teams will consist of four players from each company or of guests. Registration 11:30 a.m. Shotgun start 1 p.m. Cedar Point Country Club, Suffolk. 757-664-2537. Events. HamptonRoadsChamber.com

THE SMILE LIFESTYLE EVENT

JUNE 17: Engage with local residents, community leaders, entrepreneurs, young professionals, social influencers and military service members. 5–8:30 p.m. Slover Library, Norfolk. Eventbrite.com

M&A STRATEGIES FOR GROWTH: JOHN BLY

JUNE 21: Learn why Mergers and Acquisitions can present a simple process that brings large rewards due to various factors. EONetwork.org

BIZCONNECT HAMPTON ROADS NETWORKING/COFFEE

OWNING YOUR OWN BUSINESS WORKSHOP

JUNE 23: Three-hour information session for new and start-up business owners. $20. 9 a.m.–noon. Peninsula Workforce Development Center, Hampton. 757-865-3128. Events. HamptonRoadsChamber.com

THE NEW ROYAL COURTYARD NETWORKING EVENT

JUNE 23: Create business relationships and personal friendships at this networking event. 5:30–7:30 p.m. Royal Courtyard, Virginia Beach. Eventbrite.com

HAMPTON ROADS CHAMBER SENIOR ADVOCATE ROUNDTABLE

JUNE 23; JULY 28: Information about local services for ages 55 and over will be shared. 4–6 p.m. Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, Norfolk. 757-664-2561. Events. HamptonRoadsChamber.com

TRANSFORMATIONAL TRANSIT SUMMIT

JUNE 27: Learn from business leaders who are capitalizing on public transportation to meet the needs of the growing population. 8 a.m.–3 p.m. The Westin Virginia Beach Town Center. 757-865-3128. Events. HamptonRoadsChamber.com

LAUNCH HAMPTON ROADS SUCCESS CELEBRATION AND SHOWCASE

JUNE 28: Launch Hampton Roads, a business start-up program designed to help the unemployed, underemployed and dislocated workers to reach the dream of owning a business, will host a Success Celebration and Showcase breakfast and networking event. Free. 8–10:30 a.m. Ted Constant Convocation Center, Norfolk. Eventbrite.com

BUSINESS CONNECTION AFTER HOURS

JULY 7: Businessmen and women can join in for “Connecting Business with Opportunity.” Registration required. Free. 5–7 p.m. Tucanos Brazilian Grill, Newport News. 757-325-8162. Business. VirginiaPeninsulaChamber.com

VIRGINIA BEACH CAREER FAIR

JULY 12: A live, hiring job fair. Registration required. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Virginia Beach Resort Hotel and Conference Center, Virginia Beach. Eventbrite.com

JOB FAIR

JULY 13: Business attire is mandatory. Children not permitted. Military only 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Public 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Hampton Roads Convention Center, Hampton. VaPeninsulaChamber.com

JUNE 22: Connects the business community, business owners, entrepreneurs and potential new clients. 8–10 a.m. Decorum Furniture, Norfolk. BizConnectHr.com

Amy Taipalus McClure of Crenshaw, Ware & Martin, P.L.C. was awarded the 2016 Walter E. Hoffman Community Service Award for demonstrating outstanding hands-on service to the community. McClure is devoted to helping those in need, particularly children.

Gary Ochs has been named Assistant Vice President, Technology Services at PRA Group in Norfolk. Ochs brings more than 17 years of experience in information technology, including being Senior Manager, Data Center Operations for PRA Group.

Lynn Parrish has been promoted to Assistant Vice President at TowneBank’s headquarters in Suffolk. Parrish, who is part of the deposit services team in Suffolk, has been with TowneBank for 17 years and has 28 years of industry experience.

PINK BAG LUNCHEON: HEALTHIER NEXT YEAR JULY 14: Points of discussion include, but are not limited to, nutrition, exercise, posture, creating habits and improving mindsets. Noon–1 p.m. Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, Hampton. VaPeninsulaChamber.com

STARTUP NIGHT

JULY 21: Meet other entrepreneurs, investors and tech enthusiasts who come together to network and watch demos of new local technologies. 6–9 p.m. Hatch, Norfolk. Eventbrite.com

DIVINE CONCEPT GROUP BUSINESS AND NON-PROFIT SYMPOSIUM VII

JULY 22: The opening event of the Divine Concept Group Retreat and Family Conference 2016. 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Hilton Garden Inn Suffolk Riverfront, Suffolk. Eventbrite.com

VIRGINIA ASSOCIATION OF DNP’S FIRST ANNUAL CONFERENCE: WAVE OF THE FUTURE JULY 22–23: 8 a.m. Friday– noon Saturday. Virginia Beach Resort Hotel and Conference Center, Virginia Beach. Eventbrite.com Have a business or networking event to share? Email Anne Leonard: Anne@CoVaBIZMag.com.

David S. Redmond (Assistant Vice President for Divaris Real Estate, Inc.) was reappointed by the Virginia Beach City Council to serve on the City’s Planning Commission representing the Bayside District. Redmond originally served on the city’s planning commission from 2007–2014, including stints

as Chairman and Vice Chairman, and was instrumental in drafting the city’s Comprehensive Plan, multiple Strategic Area Growth Implementation Plans and hearing hundreds of applications affecting the built environment and greater community.

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BIZ REPORT | NETWORKING NEWS

NETWORKING NEWS

PENINSULA EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP FORUM WITH DAVID MASTERSON The Peninsula Executive Leadership Forum was held May 10 at the Peninsula Workforce Development Center in Hampton. David J. Masterson, President of Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center was the keynote speaker for the event.

SUFFOLK STATE OF THE CITY The Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce

concluded its 2016 State of the Series with Suffolk State of the City on May 10 at the Hilton Garden Inn Riverfront Hotel. Mayor Linda Johnson welcomed the crowd to “Come On Over,” to hear the exciting news happening in Suffolk, following the theme of this year’s Suffolk State of the City. As one of the fastest growing cities in Virginia, Suffolk has much to celebrate this year, including the city receiving its second Triple AAA credit rating; receiving $4.2 million in grants to support

Conway H. Sheild, III has been newly appointed as board chairman for Riverside Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Riverside Health System. Sheild, a U.S. Army veteran 20

C O VA B I Z

SPRING B2B EXPO

T fundamental projects; the rise of housing developments opening within the past year; a new interactive service for citizens, Suffolk Connections; and new developments in healthcare.

and avid scuba diver, has practiced law for 46 years with Jones, Blechman, Woltz & Kelly, P.C., and was named to Coastal Virginia Magazine’s “Top Lawyers” list in 2015.

he Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce’s third annual Spring B2B Expo was held April 28 at The Chesapeake Marriott. With more than 70 companies participating and more than 500 attendees, the event provided an ideal opportunity for companies to showcase their products and discuss their services face to face with local business professionals and consumers.

Caroline Taylor has been selected as the 2016 Small Business Person of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Taylor, a registered nurse and TCC alumna, founded Taylor Made Diagnostics in 1995. Taylor Made operates and

manages an occupational mobile medical team and health clinic in Chesapeake, which provides services to federal, state and local businesses. Jennifer Turlington was named the 2015–2016 Gregory Cherry Tourism Professional of the Year. Turlington is Event and Tourism Manager with the Virginia Living Museum

and is active with the Newport News Tourism Development Office, Newport News Hospitality Association and the Virginia Society of Association Executives. Send updates on new jobs, promotions, honors and awards, along with a headshot, to Angela Blue at Angela@CoVaBIZMag.com, with the subject line On the Move.

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BIZ REPORT | NETWORKING NEWS

CHRYSLER LEADERSHIP LUNCHEON The Chrysler Museum of Art hosted a luncheon on March 14 to thank members of the newly formed Corporate Leadership Alliance for their support. The CLA is the Museum’s leading corporate membership group. In its first year, it has 34 members, evidence of the business community’s belief in the positive returns on investment that come from supporting the arts. David R. Goode, former chairman and CEO of Norfolk Southern Corporation, delivered the keynote address, “Business in the Arts and the Arts in Business.”

Email your business or networking event photos to Angela Blue at Angela@CoVaBIZMag.com for publication consideration.

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BIZ REPORT | BY THE NUMBERS

By The Numbers PRIVATE DINING ROOM FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE

SMALL BUSINESS STATS

500

The maximum number of employees to constitute a “small business” as defined by the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Percentage of small businesses that are home-based. (Forbes.com)

160

Virginia Beach’s ranking as the location of the easiest place to start a business. (CNNMoney.com)

The average annual revenue of a small business, in millions. (Entrepreneur.com)

The average dollar amount that A. Dodson’s (with locations in Norfolk, Suffolk and Virginia Beach) gives each month to a different nonprofit organization through their roundup program.

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Percentage of net new jobs that small businesses have generated since 1995. (Forbes.com)

3.6

The number of days that it took Tanya Howard to raise more than $10,000 through an Indiegogo campaign for her Suffolk-based business, Mouth Meets South.

1,500

4 8,500 The average number of employees ideal for Hatch’s 1000 Four program—where they aim to create an army of 1,000 businesses with an average of four employees each.

The square feet of sharable office space that makes up Sprouthaus, a community of creative professionals inside a “business incubator facility.”

La Promenade Shoppes | 1860 Laskin Road, Virginia Beach, VA 757.491.1111 | Online Reservations: www.AldosVB.com

The approximate percentage of all new businesses that survive five years or more, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration.

—Carly Stunda

C O VA B I Z

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Photo by Ramone

• Elegant dining room-Breakfast, Lunch & Early Dinners Photo by Ramone

• Meetings, Parties/Celebrations, Rehearsal Dinners, etc.

• Relax in the Bar or on the Balcony over looking Town Center Plaza Barbara Lewis, President Brian Bierma, G.M.

Virginia Beach’s Premier Private Club for Business Professionals 222 Central Park Ave. #230, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 757.490.8317 • towncentercityclub.com W W W. C O V A B I Z M A G . C O M

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ASK THE EXPERT COMPANY HANDBOOK

#workplacewhining— How Much Can I Do About My Employees’ Use Of Social Media?

ost employers are aware that they need to have a social media policy. But what should it cover? And how much of a say can you have in your employees’ behavior on social media? It isn’t always crystal clear, but there are some general guidelines to go by when instituting a social media policy for your company. First, make sure you have one. A large number of your workforce is active on social media. No matter how big or small your company, you need a social media policy. Second, avoid instituting an overly broad social media policy. Employees posting complaints that can be categorized as concerted activity may be protected from being disciplined for this type of conduct. The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) is interpreted to give all employees (not just those in unions) the right to discuss the terms and conditions of their employment at a reasonable time and in a reasonable place and manner. Blanket policies that generally prohibit statements that are damaging to the employer or defame or disparage the employer or its representatives have been struck down. Similarly, the termination of employees for posting comments on social media accusing an employer of wrongdoing related to tax withholdings (even including obscenities) has been found unlawful. Third, incorporate some key provisions in your social media policy. A social media policy should prohibit employees from discussing trade secrets or confidential information, including confidential information regarding customers or clients. You should also limit employees’ use of social media during working hours—or using company equipment for social media purposes (cell phones, tablets, laptops, etc.). Your policy should specifically prohibit online harassment, discrimination or bullying of other employees. You can also prohibit employees from speaking on your company’s behalf without authority and request that employees make clear that any posts related to your company do not reflect the views of the company. Finally, whether within your social media policy or elsewhere, your employee handbook should also specifically inform employees that none of your policies are intended to restrict their rights to discuss or act together with coworkers to improve wages, benefits or working conditions or in any way restrict their rights under the NLRA. Just like the landscape of social media is constantly changing, so is the law relating to it. Employers should make the development of a social media policy a high priority and commit to a periodic legal review of their policies. Or in other words, #updateyourpolicy.

About the Expert

Elaine Inman Hogan is a partner with Crenshaw, Ware & Martin, P.L.C. She serves as the Practice Group Chair for the Employment Law Group and focuses her practice on assisting employers and management in the areas of compliance and litigation. Subscribe to Elaine’s Employment Law Blog at VaEmployerLaw.com.

C O VA B I Z

FINANCIAL How can I ensure that my employees get a fair value from our 401(k)/retirement plan?

s a business owner, human resource professional or future retiree, the Department of Labor recently issued a historical ruling known as the “Fiduciary Rule.” This controversial rule, which was opposed by many investment firms, should be viewed as a victory for retirement savers because consumers can now expect their advisors to act as “Fiduciaries.” Prior to this ruling (MarketWatch, April 6, 2016), advisors were not required to put the best interests of their clients first. Advisors will no longer be able to steer clients to inappropriate investment products. If you are a plan sponsor or trustee at your place of employment, the new ruling is going to change how your 401(k) service providers interact with you going forward as they compare vendors, provide benchmark studies on fees and expenses, receive compensation and build the investment lineup. In the 401(k) vendor marketplace, each vendor and advisor does have the need and right to receive compensation for services rendered. However, in the past it wasn’t always clear who or how various parties were getting paid. In order for you to determine whether you are meeting your fiduciary responsibility to your employees, here are questions to ask your 401(k) plan provider:

Am I paying a flat fee for service or a commission-based fee? Will you be (and does your firm allow you to be) acting as a fiduciary to our plan and participants? Do all employees pay the same percentage fee, or are some investment choices generating more revenue for the record-keeper? Do our fees automatically go down as the plan assets grow? How do you decide which funds are included in the fund lineup offered to our employees? When was the last time a vendor comparison was made to compare features, benefits and costs? Can our target-date fund provider be changed without increasing our fee schedule? Are you failing a discrimination test which limits owners/high income participants from fully funding their account? Should you offer investments from multiple fund families instead of only offering one family of mutual funds? Also, ask your advisor how many 401k plans they personally oversee, to assure it is their primary business. Securities offered through Triad Advisors, Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services offered through Planning Solutions Group, LLC. Planning Solutions Group, LLC is not affiliated with Triad Advisors.

About the Expert

Donald S. Hannahs, CFP is a founding partner of Planning Solutions Group. Don has over 20 years of experience working with successful professionals and business owners. Reach Don at Dhannahs@PSGplanning.com, or visit PSGPlanning.com to learn more or sign up for their newsletter on tax, financial and business strategies.

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ASK THE EXPERT MARKETING/ BRANDING

LEGAL How Do I Save My Development Project When The Property Is Covered With Wetlands?

wners, developers and builders in Coastal Virginia are feeling pain from a change in the way the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps) is interpreting the wetlands rules, with the Army Corps in many cases telling people that they have far less developable land than was expected. The justification for the new approach is a document that the Army Corps issued in late 2010. Few in the development community noticed at the time because construction activity in Coastal Virginia ground to a halt during the 2007–2009 recession and is only now picking up again. Wetlands on a property complicate efforts to build. There are approximately one million acres of wetlands in Virginia; 25 percent are tidal wetlands, and the remaining 75 percent are non-tidal. Through a process known as “wetlands delineation” a consultant retained by the owner, developer or builder determines if wetlands are present on a site and, if so, establishes their boundaries. The wetlands delineation is submitted to the Army Corps after which the Army Corps makes a “confirmation site visit.” The difficulty arises when the Army Corps insists that there are wetlands at areas that the consultant determined were non-wetland, oftentimes with many hundreds of thousands of dollars hanging in the balance. Three characteristics must be present before an area can qualify as a wetland: 1. hydrophytic vegetation, 2. hydric soil and 3. wetland hydrology. If one or more characteristics are absent, then the area is non-wetland. However, in reliance on language in Chapter 5 of the Regional Supplement that was issued in 2010, the Army Corps is now designating areas as wetland even though “no indicators of hydrophytic vegetation are evident.” Similarly, the Army Corps relies on Chapter 5 of the Regional Supplement to designate areas as wetland even though “hydrology indicators appear to be absent.” The result is an expansion in the area that the Army Corps wants to designate as wetland. With such large dollars riding on the results of the wetlands delineation, what can be done? The regulations provide for an “administrative appeal,” but it will be decided by an official at the Army Corps, which, it bears noting, is the agency that generated the wetlands delineation in dispute. The possibility of court review is uncertain because creation of the wetlands delineation is but a waystation in the permit issuance process, a process which can last several years. Many courts insist that the applicant see the application process through to the end before coming into court. Other courts grant immediate review, which is quite useful to owners, developers and builders. On March 30, 2016 the U.S. Supreme Court heard argument on the merits of the two approaches. A decision is expected any day.

How Do I Write A Strong LinkedIn Professional Headline?

professional brand is critical to how you market yourself and your business. And your LinkedIn profile is the most prominent place someone would engage with your brand. That’s because when someone Googles your name, your LinkedIn profile is likely the first result. Right below your name on the LinkedIn profile, there’s a space for your “professional headline.” Most people use the line to write their job title. John Doe Project Manager at Acme Corporation Sure, that’s appropriate and won’t get you in trouble. But here’s the catch: most people list their job title and company, which makes their LinkedIn profiles blend in with all the rest. Also, Project Manager at Acme Corporation isn’t a professional headline. It’s just the facts as if to say, “This is what I do, and this is where I work.” OK. But what’s your brand? Maybe John Doe excels at data analytics, and he’s become known around the office for his ability. Then his professional headline could be: John Doe Using data to make smarter decisions

So how do you craft a professional headline? First, ask yourself: “Where do I provide the most value on the job?” If you’re in customer service, then the headline could be, “The customer always comes first” or “Dedicated customer service specialist.” If you work in IT, the headline could read, “Ready to solve the toughest tech challenges” or “Cybersecurity and antivirus expert.” Think about how your skills allow you to make an impact on others. Why do you matter? Then turn the answer into a short phrase. That’s your professional headline. That’s your brand. A few more points to consider: • Don’t use the professional headline to brag. For example, “Greatest marketer in the country.” Nope, you’re not. Instead, tell us how you make others better. • Please don’t write the exact phrase, “Turns complex problems into solutions.” It’s cliché and overdone. • Keep the professional headline to eight words or fewer. Otherwise, it will drag on. Once you set the professional headline, forget about it for a couple of hours and then look again. Do you still like the headline, or does it feel funny? Listen to your gut—it’s usually right.

Or perhaps: John Doe Powerful insights driven by data

About the Expert

Jim Lang is a partner at the Pender & Coward law firm in Virginia Beach where he focuses his practice on environmental law. He frequently publishes and speaks on environmental law topics. 26

C O VA B I Z

About the Expert

Danny Rubin is vice president of Rubin Communications and the author of the new book, Wait, How Do I Write This Email?, a collection of 100+ templates for networking, the job search and LinkedIn. Visit his blog, NewsToLiveBy.net, which highlights career advice in the latest headlines. Follow him on Twitter @DannyHRubin.

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BEYOND THE BIZ SUCCESS

ALL

BUSINESS BRYAN STEPHENS CREATES OPTIMAL CONDITIONS FOR BUSINESSES TO SUCCEED By Barrett Baker | Photos By Jim Pile

self-described “military brat,” Bryan Stephens came to Coastal Virginia by way of West Virginia University after he decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and join the Army. He was commissioned the day he graduated and spent time at both Fort Monroe in Hampton and the Joint Forces Command in Norfolk. Serving our nation for 28 years, Bryan traveled all over the world before retiring from what he calls his first career, then took a job in San Antonio as President and CEO of a material handling equipment manufacturing company. But his love for Coastal Virginia was strong and lured him back to what he calls his third career, serving as President and CEO of the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce. W W W. C O V A B I Z M A G . C O M

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“

BEYOND THE BIZ | SUCCESS

I’m confident you’re going to see Hampton Roads recognized as a sterling example in the United States as a region that has come together to drive its own economic prosperity.

CoVa Biz: You were looking for a reason to come back to Coastal Virginia. What prompted that move? Bryan Stephens: It was a blessing not in disguise that I just jumped on. In the summer of 2013 I made the decision to come back to Hampton Roads and give back to the community I loved, so I began researching my options. My search began with downloading The Virginian-Pilot app on my iPad. Literally, the next day I read a story about the President and CEO of the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce announcing his retirement after 28 years. I don’t feel that was coincidental—more like a higher calling to serve a community in more of a servant/leader position as opposed to running a for-profit business. CoVa Biz: In layman’s terms, what does the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce do? BS: I’m glad you say layman’s terms because that’s how I describe the Chamber of Commerce and its role in the community. The bottom line is the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce sets the conditions so that businesses can be successful. First and foremost, we do that by providing products and services to our members. We’re a memberbased organization, so when a business joins the Chamber we find out exactly what their needs, goals and desires are and tailor a membership package specifically for them to ensure they optimize their membership in support of their business success. In addition, we do a lot of work in support of the business community at-large. For example, we collaborate and work alongside all of the economic development professionals throughout the area to ensure that we have a strong, robust economy here in Hampton Roads. We work within the workforce development community to ensure there is a trained and ready workforce, not only now, but in the future. We work every day to ensure that we have the infrastructure in place to support efficient business and business growth here in Hampton Roads. And we consistently address quality of life issues because we believe a good high quality of life contributes to a pro-business environment.

C O VA B I Z

CoVa Biz: Any exciting prospects on the horizon? BS: Yes, I’m very optimistic we are at the cusp of a strategic turning point as far as our regional economy goes. Things are really starting to fall in place. Our region’s local government elected leaders, our state legislators and the governor clearly understand the importance of economic development and the need to diversify and grow our economy. The business community is getting much better at coming together as a region. Many of the new civic leaders coming to Hampton Roads bring with them a mindset of collaboration having seen firsthand its proven success in their previous positions. Our region’s young professionals are starting to get organized and have meaningful input on our future. I believe we are finally keenly aware that in order to be successful economically, we must organize, act and operate as a region. Leveraging the collective impact of working together is the only way to grow the economy. This is vitally important to our long-term economic success considering our years of reliance on federal dollars and the continual military drawdown. So all these things are coming together, almost like a perfect storm, and I’m confident you’re going to see Hampton Roads recognized as a sterling example in the United States as a region that has come together to drive its own economic prosperity.

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SAY GOODBYE TO READING GLASSES

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Before the KAMRA Inlay

After the KAMRA Inlay

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Call today for a FREE CONSULTATION to see if KAMRA can free you from your reading glasses. Beach Eye Care is the only comprehensive eye care provider in Virginia to offer KAMRA to its patients and has been a trusted resource for better vision in Hampton Roads for over 25 years.

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BEYOND THE BIZ | AT HOME

Bank To Believe In

C O VA B I Z

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BEYOND THE BIZ | AT HOME

FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS TO LEADING A BILLION-DOLLAR COMPANY, TOWNEBANK FOUNDER BOB ASTON MAINTAINS HIS VISION TO SERVE OTHERS By Anne Leonard Photos By Angela Douglas

N AN AFTERNOON IN MAY, overlook-

PHOTO COURTESY OF TOWNEBANK

ing the Elizabeth River, the Portsmouth home of TowneBank founder Bob Aston sits on the greenest of lawns—a perfect day for him to take his tractor out for a spin. “My days are usually filled with work, and weekends are filled with working in my yard and washing my cars,” Aston says. “[It’s] not the most exciting life, but it’s what I love to do.” His living room is filled with family photos, some faded from the sun. Aston grew up on a farm in Suffolk, what was then Nansemond County, before moving to Portsmouth where his family still resides. Before finishing high school in Portsmouth, Aston went to work and never attended college. While he later attended banking schools at University of Oklahoma and University of Virginia, most of his banking knowledge was learned on the job. Down the hall hangs a black and white photo of Citizens Trust Company, the first bank he worked at while in high school.

The garage where it all began.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF TOWNEBANK

BEYOND THE BIZ | AT HOME

Though making hamburgers was his first job, his first real job, as he calls it, was at Citizens Trust Company (essentially where the Children’s Museum of Virginia is today), a job he acquired through his high school’s vocational training program. “At the time, I would have to say I was just happy to get the job, you know, regardless of where it might be,” he laughs. From getting coffee for people to making their toast and filing checks, Aston’s first banking position started small. “Any kind of grunt work they could dream up,” he says. “That’s what I did.” In September, Aston will celebrate 52 years in the banking industry. Today, TowneBank has 37 branches and $6.7 billion in assets. “And that was starting from the first day when we had zero,” he chuckles. After expanding to Richmond in 2015 with seven locations, Aston isn’t stopping there. TowneBank is currently in the process of buying Monarch Bank, hopefully by June 24, he says; the purchase will increase the company’s assets to $7.6 billion. Of course, those numbers don’t add up overnight. 32

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BEYOND THE BIZ | AT HOME

PHOTOS (BOTTOM OF THIS PAGE) COURTESY OF TOWNEBANK

t all began in a garage. From the summer of ’98 to April of ’99, Aston and about 25 others worked out of his home’s garage before they opened three locations in Portsmouth, Virginia Beach and Chesapeake. “My son, who’s up there [points to a family photo on the wall]; he was about 6 at the time, and he was our designated security officer,” Aston says. “He had a police motorcycle that was battery-powered. He would wear his Batman suit and escort all the ladies to their cars out of the culde-sac each night; so he was our official first security officer,” he smiles. We walk next door to the garage, the very garage of the bank’s beginnings. During those first three months in ’98, Aston and the rest of the team built the culture of the bank, what they wanted to stand for and how they wanted to operate. “Our vision for the company really wasn’t so much about the bank as it was building up a great community asset that would be here for generations to come,” Aston says. “We never set out to be the biggest bank in town; that really wasn’t the objective.” Despite his humble beginnings, Aston’s vision and style of leadership planted the seeds that have led to the flourishing company TowneBank is today. “As I look back over my career, it was understanding that leadership is about developing followership. And in developing followership, it’s basically essential to sort of engage the hearts and minds of those around you.” Aston recalls a time in his 20s when his boss explained that developing followership was the secret behind great leadership. “‘One day [he] said, ‘Son, one day you have the ability to be president of this bank. But the board can’t make you the president. Only the people that work here can make you the president.’ At the end of the day it’s about developing followership and having people believe in you, believe in what you stand for and believe in what you do.” Nearly decades later, TowneBank continues to live out the same vision since day one. During the 17 years they’ve been in operation, TowneBank Foundation has given nearly $37 million back into the community. “We never strayed from that philosophical belief that we’re really here to serve others,” he says. “I don’t measure success by money; it’s really about what we can do with that money and what we can do to help people.” Above the garage is an office and entertainment area with a conference table, a pool table and bunk beds built inside an exposed closet for his kids, an idea he’d seen in Southern Living. A coach for 40 years, Aston has lined his walls with championship trophies and his kids’ sports memorabilia. It’s a part of his life he considers to be some of his greatest personal achievements. Success to Aston is simply defined by having a passion for what he does. “One of the real advantages I’ve had in life is to have a professional position that I truly loved every minute of every day. So many people spend their life at a job that may be a great job, but they really don’t love it. And I think whether you’re doing civic work or charitable work, or whatever, having a passion for it, you will be better at it.” At 71, the father of five and grandfather of six doesn’t plan on slowing down any time soon. “I expect to be around for a few more years.”

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BEYOND THE BIZ | FAMILY BUSINESS

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Patty Ritzi (center) with her mother, Lena Windon (left), and her husband, Lional Teed (right)

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BEYOND THE BIZ | FAMILY BUSINESS

CAREER

AFTER 25 YEARS, PREMIER EVENTS CONTINUES TO FLOURISH THROUGH ATTENTION TO DETAIL, CUSTOMER SATISFACTION AND FAMILY TEAMWORK

Story and Photos By Angela Blue

hen the Premier Events team loads up their truck full of props, lighting, table linens and centerpieces to head to an event, they have one rule: Don’t let Patty go back into the warehouse. And that rule always gets broken. “For every event that we plan, I make a ‘load list’ of each item that needs to go on the truck for the event,” explains Patty Ritzi, owner of Virginia Beach-based Premier Events. “And then I get to walk back into the warehouse, and if there’s any room in the truck, I get to add extra stuff,” she laughs. “Usually the last thing I grab

is that one little detail that takes it over the top.” Lional Teed, Premier’s production and event manager (and Patty’s husband) knowingly nods his head. “No matter how full the truck is, she’s going to add something to it to make the event more special,” he says. “It’s her signature.” Apparently, it works. Premier Events, which started as a small event business with some casino equipment, has evolved into a full service production company, coordinating more than 300 events a year in Coastal Virginia, Richmond, Maryland and Pennsylvania. As Patty celebrates Premier Events’ 25th anniversary this year, she looks back at some of the company’s most

memorable events—and the family members who’ve made it happen.

Making Memories Premier coordinate all types of events, including weddings, corporate meetings, holiday parties, proms and ring dances, fundraising events, branding events, green events, bar and bat mitzvahs—“We even did a dog bar mitzvah,” Lional notes. They once planned a birthday party at Granby Theater that aired on MTV’s “My Super Sweet

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BEYOND THE BIZ | FAMILY BUSINESS

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Patty examines a row of linens and fabrics in all colors, patterns and textures. Costumes for every occassion. Ms. Pac-Man makes lunch breaks more fun. Hydrant display for dog bar mitzvah. Many signature party props are made in-house. Wild decor lines every aisle. Original clown from Ocean View Amusement Park. 16.” Then there was the Avatar-themed prom at Princess Anne High School, complete with a spectacular mural lit entirely by LED lights. “We were able to hear the people come in, and they were saying, ‘Wow,’” Lional remembers. “Getting to hear the client’s reaction is paramount to me,” Patty notes. “We create a moment for people, and it’s a memory. And I want that memory to be as flawless as possible and be as much of the vision that they’re hoping for.”

All In The Family Going the extra mile for clients is something that Patty says she picked up from her mother, 76-year-old Lena Windon. “My mom has been an integral part of Premier,” Patty explains, adding that Lena has helped to design many of Premier’s costumes, décor and flower arrange36

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ments and has assisted in bookkeeping and coordinating event details. “She’s of the mindset that, when she’d answer a phone call, she’d never say, ‘No, we can’t do it,’” Patty explains. Like the time in 1995 when Lena agreed to make giant, glittery, three-dimensional hearts for Hillary’s Clinton’s Valentine’s Day party and promised to have them delivered to Washington within three days. “We didn’t make any money on this whatsoever,” Patty laughs. “It was just a claim to fame.” Patty’s father, Larry Windon (now deceased), played a huge role in Premier’s success as well, helping to provide initial funding for the business, building props and spreading the word. Patty’s first event was held at GE Aircraft Engines, where her father worked. Even Patty’s daughter, Miranda, has had a major part in Premier’s event coordination and design décor. “I have pictures of her when she was 9 years old building the Rock ‘n’ Roll

Half Marathon balloon arch,” Patty recalls. “Miranda’s been as much a part of Premier as we have.” But the person who Patty relies on the most, she says, is Lional, who happens to be Patty’s first husband and also her fourth husband. “First and last,” Lional laughs. When Patty gets an idea for something, Lional is the one who makes it happen. “He’s mathematically and more science-minded than I am,” Patty explains. “I just see a vision; he sees the parameters and works on the design side of it. It’s kind of like combining a right and left brain.” Although Patty says there are instances when she and Lional don’t see eye to eye, they work together as a team. “Most people ask, ‘How do you do that all the time?’” she says. “Part of our success in working together is the fact that we appreciate the time we missed together and appreciate every moment we have now.”

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FEATURE | SMALL BUSINESSES L AR GE

Small But

P O R AT I O

CTIVIT Y

N O V AT I O

M I G BUSINE

C CO OV VA A B B II Z Z

GRAND IDEAS, POWERFUL AMBITION AND BIG ACCOMPLISHMENTS COME IN SMALL BUSINESSES

COMPILED BY Barrett Baker, Angela Blue, Jamie McAllister and Melissa M. Stewart JJ U UN NE E // JJ U U LL Y Y 2 20 01 16 6

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FEATURE | SMALL BUSINESSES

VICES

I TA L S

OLS

UNIT Y

H T Y Innovative. Creative. JO

Motivated. Tenacious.

These qualities emerge again and again within the success stories of these 15 small businesses. Each started out with a vision, and through dedication and persistence, these owners and founders were able to bring their ideas to life. In the pages ahead, they share some of their most rewarding efforts, the obstacles they overcame when first starting out and advice for others looking to join the team of small business owners that make Coastal Virginia a vibrant place to work, live and grow. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;The Editors

W WW WW W .. C CO OV VA AB B II Z ZM MA AG G .. C CO OM M

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A. Dodson’s

FEATURE | SMALL BUSINESSES

Owner Alison Dodson Anderson Founded 2003 Locations 500 Laskin Rd., Virginia Beach 1611-A Colley Ave., Norfolk 2948 Bridge Rd., Suffolk Number of Employees 33

Dodson’s is a unique boutique, offering customers an exquisite assortment of clothing and accessories, distinctive home furnishings and cultivated gifts. Owner Alison Dodson Anderson and her staff puts much thought and planning behind buying and merchandising. “We listen to our customers, and we also analyze a lot of numbers every week—and month—and quarter,” explains executive assistant Lexi Larson. “We don’t go to market and just buy what we like; we have to make sure our customers like it based on past numbers.” Another important step in ensuring the best experience for A. Dodson’s entails each employee asking themselves four questions: 1. Why do you want to do this? 2. What goal does it meet? 3. Is it sustainable? And the most important question—4. Are we having fun? We sat down with owner Alison Dodson Anderson, president Kathy Lovko, director of marketing Kim Glover and executive assistant Lexi Larson to learn more about the behind-the-scenes business and fun of A. Dodson’s.

What was the inspiration/ motivation for starting your business? My grandfather owned a general store, and my mother ran an antique store. I just always knew that I wanted to have my own small business. Retail’s one of those things—it’s in your blood. It’s not something that you just wake up and choose to do. It’s part of who you are. What obstacles did you face when starting your business? How did you overcome them? My biggest and worst was probably funding. I had put together at that time what I thought was the most fabulous business plan ever, and I had a local banker tell me, ‘No, absolutely no way will your plan work in this area.” So that was a little hard to take. But I said, ‘I’m going to do it.’ I was able to get a personal loan and credit from the bank. What are some benefits of being a small business? A lot of people say, ‘We’re like family.’ The reality is we grew up together. We’ve known each other since 5th grade. I

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consider these women my sisters in so many ways. We try to compensate what we don’t give you in the corporate world with what we give you back in family time and family values. Out front, our customers are our friends. We know their children’s names, we know their mommas’ names, we know their pets’ names. We know them. What’s something your business is doing that sets you apart from other businesses in the same field? Our roundup program is a huge way for us to give back to the community, not just on the retail side but on the philanthropic side. We ask customers to round up their change, and we match the change and give that to a charity each month. We allow our Facebook fans and followers to vote on the charity that they want their money going to. Our first month we gave away $151 to Horses Helping Heroes, and now we give away no less than $1,500 a

As long as we can be effective in the communities that we’re in, we’ll continue that growth.

month. To date, we’ve given away about $60,000. That number continues to grow, and we’re able to pump that back into the community, but we’re also able to make a difference with it by creating awareness. What strategy or idea has proven to be a success for your business? On our merchandising side, we break down things into stories, and we buy to those stories. It’s all planned. Also, by flipping the store every couple of weeks, we are able to give the customers a completely different experience with the exact same merchandise. Each of our stores is different. We tailor our layouts based on the flow of the store, what we know our customers love. How has your business evolved since opening? Price point from the first time I opened to now. Really finding that sweet spot for customers and providing a product that’s considered a value.

Do you have goals to expand and grow in the future, or are you happy remaining a small business? We have a couple more stores planned. As long as we can be effective in the communities that we’re in, we’ll continue that growth. We want to stay true to what we are and the mission of what was created, to not let the dollar signs always lead you. What’s a piece of advice you’d like to share with current or future small business owners? It’s an old line, but do what you love. Never be afraid to ask for help. Don’t be afraid of what you don’t know, but be smart enough to ask.

Find out more at ADodsons.com.

—AB

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Axis Global Enterprises, Inc. Owners Ross D. Vierra, president; Joshua C. Canada, vice president; Earl W. Walker IV, partner Founded 2009 Location Corporate Office: 2824 Shipps Corner Rd., Virginia Beach; Peninsula Office: 12674 Patrick Henry Dr., Newport News Number of Employees 34

xis started as a road markings company in 2009 and has since evolved into a design build, contractor and security technology firm, serving both commercial and government customers with revenue that increased 204 percent from 2013 to ’14. Its solutions range from full-service general contracting and development in the construction division to providing integrated security and fire technology solutions through the ASI Security division. This year, Axis (as ASI Security) became a lead dealer for Active Shooter Detection Systems, a life-saving technology that is changing the way public and private institutions nationwide are responding to active shooter scenarios. Upcoming jobs include the new manufacturing facility for Back Bay Brewing and a brewing facility near Virginia Tech. In March they were awarded a $6 million firm-fixed price construction contract with NASA Langley Research Center that includes complete building renovation for more than 43,000 square feet of new laboratories at NASA Langley Research Center.

What do you enjoy most about your business’s location? We live in the greatest region in Virginia, if not the United States. The Coastal Virginia region is home to the largest military concentration with the best men and women serving and defending our freedom. We are surrounded by the beautiful Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean. With the tremendous support of local city and economic development leadership, businesses in our region are able to grow and thrive.

We work hard to ensure our team is motivated and believes in the vision

What was the inspiration/motivation for starting your business? I have always enjoyed building things and seeing visions come to life. In Axis, I saw an opportunity to take a small road markings company and transform it into a multi-faceted enterprise. We now have three primary divisions: General Contracting, Integrated Security Technology and Parking Lot Maintenance, with multiple service offerings under each. What obstacles did you face when starting your business? How did you overcome them? When we first began, we were in a single-room warehouse with two employees. We were a small

What are some benefits of being a small business? Flexibility and adaptability. The ability to quickly adapt to fluctuating markets is essential to staying viable and achieving the needs of our clients. What’s something your business is doing that sets you apart from other businesses in the same field? We focus on service in everything we do! Servicing our clients is our first priority. Our team is dedicated to providing the best solutions and cutting-edge technology, while simultaneously being a strong contributor to the community. What strategy or idea has proven to be a success for your business? Business is more than what

you earn—it’s also what you give back. Our business is consistently committed to giving back to the communities we serve. How has your business evolved since opening? We went from two people in the company to 34-plus and continue to grow and expand substantially each year. We have an extraordinary team that serves our customers with passion and skill each and every day. We currently have two office locations, one on the Southside in Virginia Beach and the other on the Peninsula in Newport News and have future expansion opportunities on the horizon for 2017 (stay tuned). Do you have goals to expand and grow in the future, or are you happy remaining a small business? As a business, if you are not actively thinking about growth, strategy and expansion, then you are allowing yourself to let opportunities pass you by. Our team is consistently seeking out new opportunities, exploring and investigating new ways to provide better solutions to our customers, from construction projects to fire and security systems. What’s a piece of advice you’d like to share with current or future small business owners? If you want to get into business because you think you will be your own boss and work for yourself, try again! To succeed, you must embrace servant leadership and be committed 110 percent to your employees, clients, vendors, bankers and community and be dedicated to supporting their efforts. Find out more at AXISG.com —MMS W W W. C O V A B I Z M A G . C O M

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FEATURE | SMALL BUSINESSES

business with a big vision, but resources were limited, budgets were tight, and finding top talent in a competitive market was a challenge. Owning a small business is always a challenge, but we work hard to ensure our team is motivated and believes in the vision, and through that, we will continue to grow together.

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Taste Tidewater Tours

FEATURE | SMALL BUSINESSES

Owners: Lisa and Rex Hamaker Founded 2013 Location Virginia Beach Number of Employees 7

hen you live in one of the most impressive foodsheds in the country, the obvious thing to do is share the love of enticing eats and locally crafted beverages with others. Lisa and Rex Hamaker do just that, offering guided services for both visitors and locals to tour breweries, wineries, culinary treasures or historic sites in Coastal Virginia. Passengers on an excursion with Taste Tidewater Tours board an executive coach that seats 12 people, then embark on one of their five craft beer tours, three winery tours or four food tours, two of which are focused on oysters paired with wine or beer. When they’re not introducing others to the delicious culinary culture of our region, the Hamakers get involved in the local food movement in other ways, including their own nonprofit, Hunger for Health; serving on the board and volunteering for Buy Fresh Buy Local; and being members of the Beekeeper’s Guild of Southeastern Virginia. What was the inspiration/motivation for starting your business? Our roots here date back to some of the original colonists, and we know and love to show off our home region as only locals can. Beyond that, a health scare inspired us to explore what the local food and farm scene has to offer, which led us to discover the burgeoning culinary, craft brewery and winery market. Helping locals and visitors alike make meaningful connections with the best the region has to offer is a passion of ours. What obstacles did you face when starting your business? How did you overcome them? As vibrant as the local craft beer/wine scene has become, most locals still don’t know we have local beer/winery options—let alone a largermarket amenity like a guided tour service. Being patient, figuring out the best channels for marketing and networking/building trust with local government and venues has gone a long way to getting the word out to potential customers. What do you enjoy most about your business’s location? So much! This region is the only place we can think of on the East Coast that has the quality and quantity of farms, fisheries, brewer-

No other tour company has yet done the work or established the relationships with local farms, restaurants, breweries, wineries and even oystermen.

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ies, wineries and now distilleries that can let you eat locally and want for very little. To get this kind of quality elsewhere, you have to go to California. We know our quality is as high as that, and we don’t have the droughts. What are some benefits of being a small business? Being small and local, the networking we’ve been able to achieve has been very rewarding. Of course, it’s stressful being responsible for all aspects of a small business, but the relationships that have come out of it—especially with other small, family businesses—has been wonderful. What’s something your business is doing that sets you apart from other businesses in the same field? Frankly speaking, we don’t have any competition offering all the tour experiences we do, especially with the quality of experience we provide. No other tour company has yet done the work or established the relationships with local farms, restaurants, breweries, wineries and even oystermen. The quality of tour we’re able to give stems from the personal and professional network of trust we’ve built so that our tours don’t have to rely on gimmicks to add value.

What strategy or idea has proved to be a success for your business? Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with your business partners, and embrace social media. Social media has brought us more then we could have imagined, and it stuns us that businesses still do not use it. How has your business evolved since opening? Our biggest evolution has been in the variety of tours we offer. Starting with just brewery and winery tours, we now offer culinary and oyster tours as well. Beyond that, the other big change has been becoming a source of local knowledge. In the beginning, we had to explain to venues and government offices who we were. Now, they contact us for our advice and partnership. Do you have goals to expand and grow in the future, or are you happy remaining a small business? As our business model is based on close cooperation with our partner venues, some kinds of growth seem hard without sacrificing the quality of the experience—which we are unwilling to do. We’ve already expanded in the richness of diversity of tours we offer, but we will likely stay true to our roots in servicing what we know best—Coastal Virginia. There’s plenty of room for growth in our home area as people discover more and more the bounty of Tidewater! What’s a piece of advice you’d like to share with current or future small business owners? Have a plan, be flexible, and be patient. It’s generally going to take longer than you think to be successful, so resiliency key.

Learn more at TasteTidewater.com. — AB and MMS

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Cookie Text

I am the Imelda Marcos of sprinkles.

What are some benefits of being a small business? The level of customer service I can provide. Most people think they’re the only order of the day. I am also able to maintain a high level of quality. I am a giver by nature, and I am also able to contribute to lots of nonprofits. It’s a win-win because I get my name out there, and it helps them.

FEATURE | SMALL BUSINESSES

Owner Jeanne Fiocca Founded 2011 Location Home-based in Yorktown Number of Employees 2

What’s something your business is doing that sets you apart from other businesses in the same field? We use all-natural ingredients and real stuff in our cookies. No one ships us vats of stuff. Everything is personalized, and we have so many options. I am the Imelda Marcos of sprinkles.

ost people have cars and lawn equipment in their garages. Jeanne Fiocca has ovens. Fiocca, founder and owner of Cookie Text, creates homemade treats in a variety of sizes in her garage, which has been remodeled as a small cookie-making setup. Customers can add a personal message or design, making them ideal gifts for business clients, college students or anyone who needs a sweet pick-me-up. When Fiocca began baking and decorating cakes for her children, she found a creative side she hadn’t been able to nurture in her former role as an occupational therapist. She loved working with people and decided to go into business selling sugary goodies. The idea for the business came to her while she was taking a nap, and she hasn’t stopped dreaming up ways to improve her business since. Fiocca shares challenges she’s faced, what has worked best for her business and why being the cookie lady is the sweetest job ever.

What was the inspiration/motivation for starting your business? I had been a stay-athome mom since my oldest son was born, and when my youngest started school, I became active in volunteering. I looked at renewing my OT license, but I wasn’t the same person anymore. I started making cakes for my children, and then people started asking me to make cookie cakes. I found a creative side I didn’t know I had. What obstacles did you face when starting your business? How did you overcome them? I never took a single business class. Everybody falls into a trap that if you create something people will flock to it. It takes time, effort and energy for something to catch on. I also had to defend my brand when someone else copied my website, and I had to get a lawyer. All the legalese was foreign to me, but I felt like I had to do it. I also had to stop working so hard and learn to delegate. What do you enjoy most about your business’s location? Since I work from home, I can work any time. If it’s a busy season, like Christmas, my youngest son will come sit with me. I also like the lack of overhead. I don’t think I would have made it as far if I had jumped into having a storefront. I watched lots of bakeries and coffee shops fold because they had so many bills and employees to pay.

What strategy or idea has proven to be a success for your business? Giving the product away as samples has helped me get my foot in the door. If I am presenting somewhere, I never come without samples. The product speaks for itself, and people get it when they taste it. How has your business evolved since opening? Tremendously. I started out offering one flavor and one size, and now we offer six flavors, four sizes, and we also sell balloons and birthday candles. The website is in its third incarnation. Just last year I was handwriting orders on tickets, but now we have customcoded software to do that. Do you have goals to expand and grow in the future, or are you happy remaining a small business? I have big goals and dreams. Somewhere in my mind’s eye is a Cookie Text shop on a street corner that is our flagship store. I don’t want to ship because I want people to have cookies that are fresh and homemade that day. I would like to franchise, but for now, I am right where I need to be. It makes me feel good when people compliment me, and when I am doing my thing at 3 a.m., I’m happy. What’s a piece of advice you’d like to share with current or future small business owners? If you do what you love from the right place with good intentions, it’s all going to turn out OK. Be yourself. Don’t try to copy. Put a little bit of yourself into your business.

Learn more at CookieText.com. —JM W W W. C O V A B I Z M A G . C O M

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EOS Surfaces Owner Ken Trinder Founded 2005 Location 301 E. 20th St., Norfolk Number of Employees 32

FEATURE | SMALL BUSINESSES

OS Surfaces, LLC, based in Norfolk, is an innovative technology company developing products that reduce the risk of infection in the healthcare industry through the reduction of bioburden. EOS offers a variety of progressive surface materials. Their product portfolio includes EOS, its award-winning, 3-cm solid surface that offers premium design and durability at an affordable price; GEOS, the most functional recycled glass countertop available; and EOScu, the only synthetic hard surface EPA-registered for public-health claims, continuously killing 99.9 percent of Gram negative and Gram positive bacteria* within two hours of exposure. What was the inspiration/motivation for starting your business? I graduated from Wake Forest Law School and went immediately into corporate law. While the work was interesting and I knew I would have a successful career as an attorney, it didn’t take long for me to realize that my heart wasn’t in the type of work that would keep me indoors. I left the legal profession and first purchased a retail countertop business, but I spent most of those years developing ideas for new types of polymer-based surfacing products, and I wanted to manufacture them myself, so I decided to sell and create the current company, EOS Surfaces. Most recently, we have been on a journey in healthcare, working to help eliminate healthcare associated infections (HAIs). About six years ago, I heard about a proprietary copper technology that was demonstrating biocidal activity in soft textiles. I knew that if I could find a way to suspend that material in my own solid surface, EOS, there would be a material that could help us reduce hospital-acquired infections and, in turn, help people and make a difference. And so began the production and launch of EOScu Preventive|Biocidal Surface™. What obstacles did you face when starting your business? How did you overcome them? As with any startup, there is an idea, and then there is communicating that idea to others in a way that they can share your vision. Thankfully, I had science helping me do a lot of that explaining. When EOScu began demonstrating its biocidal properties in both the bench science and the real-world clinical data, it became a lot easier for others to envision how a biocidal surface could make a

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difference for healthcare facilities. Of course, there also remains the everyday challenges of startup: creating consistent production standards and managing cash flow in relation to inventory turnover and capital demand. What do you enjoy most about your business’s location? I was born and raised in Virginia Beach, so Coastal Virginia is both home for me and the place that encompasses all that I have loved to do and be a part of for most of my life. EOS Surfaces is situated in a quasi-industrial part of Norfolk, allowing us to have the benefit of a large warehouse space for our plant, where all of our EOScu products are made. But just a short walk away are both some of Norfolk’s oldest businesses—like Doumar’s—alongside new development from Downtown to Riverview and up 21st Street to Colley Avenue. It’s an exciting environment for innovation, and I enjoy watching Norfolk grow. What are some benefits of being a small business? In terms of EOScu, a significant benefit is being able to personally monitor the quality of the product as well as the education of the end user. EOScu is a strange (but powerful) concept for people to understand. Because nothing like this has ever existed, potential users need a personal introduction to the material and its attributes, something that I am able to attend to myself as a small business owner. How has your business evolved since opening? We have expanded our team and created relationships with distributors around the country. The impact EOScu has had on

We believe EOScu should become a part of the standard of care for any healthcare facility. the entire EOS team, however, has been profound. I believe we all feel that whatever task we are doing, from boxing samples to presenting to world-class healthcare facilities, we all feel that we are helping make a difference in healthcare. We are all very aware of the estimated 75,000 Americans who die because of a HAI. Like most people, many of us have a personal experience with a loved one dealing with a preventable HAI. So the mission has helped us evolve as well. Do you have goals to expand and grow in the future, or are you happy remaining a small business? We believe EOScu should become a part of the standard of care for any healthcare facility. And we believe that the science will continue to support that mission. As a result, we would expect our business to grow as the product becomes recognized as essential and our clinical data is published. What’s a piece of advice you’d like to share with current or future small business owners? Always secure more capital than you think you will need. And don’t give up. Some days it will feel impossible, but you never know what persistence will deliver. Stick with it.

To learn more, visit EOScu.com. *Testing demonstrates effective antibacterial activity against Staphylococus aureus (ATCC 6538), Enterobacter aerogenes (ATCC 13048), Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA-ATCC 33592), Escherichia coli 0157:H7 (ATCC 35150) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 15442). —AB

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Hatch Owner Zack Miller Founded 2012 Location 111 Granby St., Norfolk Number of Employees 6

Hatch provides their customers the knowledge of what they’ve learned and continue to learn in business.

What obstacles did you face when starting your business? How did you overcome them? Creating something that had never really been done before locally was a challenge because you’re trying to explain to people what it is, and they have one thought of what it is or they say, “Oh, this area doesn’t need that.” So hearing a lot of “nos” and just really pushing through those “nos” and turning them into “yeses”. What do you enjoy most about your business’s location? Density. I love the density Downtown Norfolk has because I don’t have to get in my car to go to a meeting, to another meeting, to another meeting. I can just walk out my door and go and have that meeting that I need. I think that’s one of the keys that is missing from this region.

What strategy or idea has proved to be a success for your business? The one thing that has worked very well is in-person events, so meet-ups and events around starting and growing a business. We’ve done that through an event we created several years ago called “Start Norfolk,” which was a build-a-company-in-a-weekend competition. We also do weekly workshops. And now— taking that same kind of experience and distributing it online. Businesses can search our database of over 100 pieces of content to get that information. How has your business evolved since opening? I think we’re constantly evolving; we’re constantly testing things to see what works. It evolves by our customers or prospect customers telling us that they want something and we don’t have it yet. I think it’s really listening to what people are looking for, seeing if they really want it and figuring out a way to make it happen.

Do you have goals to expand and grow in the future, or are you happy remaining a small business? There will likely never be a second Hatch, but we have a program called 1000 Four—where we’re trying to create an army of 1,000 businesses with an average of four employees each. It’s business content on demand. It’s one part community, one part business resources. Think of us as Netflix for business content. We create content in video form and have workshops and guides and courses that people can receive. What’s a piece of advice you’d like to share with current or future small business owners? I think people quit too early. You can’t live the employee mindset and have a successful business. You have to be willing to give up something early and often to make your business succeed. When businesses fail, oftentimes I believe it’s because they didn’t give it their all. Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something because you can do everything that you want.

Learn more at StartWithHatch.com. —BB W W W. C O V A B I Z M A G . C O M

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FEATURE | SMALL BUSINESSES

What was the inspiration/motivation for starting your business? Early on I realized there was a huge hole in the market for earlystage companies locally. So I started getting involved in a lot of those things and tried to become an expert in that field. When I would go to places to try and get the answers to start our own business, I found that it was the same answer that it would have been in 1904 that it was in 2011. I needed my own solution to find that, and I couldn’t find it. So instead of moving or complaining, I just created it and found people to help guide it, and that’s how Hatch hatched.

atch is in the business of helping other businesses develop, grow and thrive. Think of them as a gym for entrepreneurs, where they create the environment for people to start and grow their business. Hatch provides the “free weights” and “treadmills” through business workshops, events and content, but businesses still have to do the work (just like a person who wants to become fit still has to get on the treadmill). Hatch provides their customers the knowledge of what they’ve learned and continue to learn in business.

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I’m doing what I enjoy doing, and you can’t replace that with anything. It allows you to help your customers bring their ideas to life.

The Village Blacksmith

FEATURE | SMALL BUSINESSES

Owner George Cramer Founded September 18, 2015 Location 6641 Gloucester St., Gloucester Number of Employees 2

s the name would imply, The Village Blacksmith is about blacksmithing, welding and metal fabrication. But they don’t just stick to metal; they repurpose or upcycle other items and do woodworking, too. They also collaborate with other artists to create one-of-a-kind pieces in the hopes of eventually becoming a one-stop shop for everything handmade and custom. Although they create a few production pieces, most is custom work. Word-of-mouth advertising has helped them create a huge portfolio of work that goes even beyond the imagination of what they thought they would—or could—do.

What was the inspiration/motivation for starting your business? As I was in the process of trying to start my business, a “Launch Gloucester” entrepreneur contest came along. I said, ‘Why not? I might as well apply for this Entrepreneur Package.’ We ended up being one of the winners, and it really helped push me further than I would have gone on my own. Putting a deadline on the competition really drove me to ramp up my timeline. What obstacles did you face when starting your business? How did you overcome them? I still work full time in Virginia Beach,

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as well as run this business. That’s the main obstacle. Putting in a lot of hours. Managing production time, making production pieces and also doing custom work while working full time has been the biggest challenge. What do you enjoy most about your business’s location? It’s right in the heart of historic Gloucester. There are a lot of great businesses here, and I know a lot of the owners. We all help each other on the business side of the house. If I don’t know the answer to a business question, I know who I can go to for answers.

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What are some benefits of being a small business? I’m doing what I enjoy doing, and you can’t replace that with anything. It allows you to help your customers bring their ideas to life. What’s something your business is doing that sets you apart from other businesses in the same field? This summer we plan to start teaching classes in blacksmithing, bladesmithing and welding and fabrication to allow others to know what it feels like to make something with their hands.

What strategy or idea has proved to be a success for your business? Creative thinking and bartering is definitely a win/win for us. Sometimes I need services from other businesses, and they’ve needed services from me, so we barter a lot. I enjoy doing that because we both feel like we come out on top of the situation. Do you have goals to expand and grow in the future, or are you happy remaining a small business? We’re looking at having multiple locations eventually. We’ll have a retail location, a production location and a school location sometime down the road. We’re also

looking at doing some Northeast and East Coast tours, networking with some bus companies and travel agencies. What’s a piece of advice you’d like to share with current or future small business owners? Do it and do it now. Time is a valuable commodity, and I wish I had started this about five years ago. Don’t give up. There are going to be roadblocks and hindrances throughout your journey, but keep pushing forward. You’ll overcome them. And it’ll be worth it in the end. —BB

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FEATURE | SMALL BUSINESSES

As an entrepreneur you learn as much from your mistakes as you do from your success, and you just keep going.

Mouth Meets South Owner Tanya M. Howard Founded Early 2015 Location Suffolk Number of Employees 1

FEATURE | SMALL BUSINESSES

(Tanya also works with a co-packer to translate her family recipes for the mass market.)

What was the inspiration/motivation for starting your business? My background is external affairs and corporate communications. I worked extremely long hours. I had become quite the proponent, as a single career woman, of frozen food meals, still wanting to have a healthy, balanced meal with a meat and two sides. It occurred to me during one of my grocery store visits that I was seeing more varieties of frozen foods—not only American but Mediterranean, Hispanic, Italian. And I thought, ‘Well, there should be soul food.’ So I held onto that thought and said if I ever slow down on these hours, I will prepare a business plan, and I will introduce the first ever frozen soul food and Southern cuisine individual serving meal in your local grocer’s freezer. What are some benefits of being a small business? I have developed relationships with people who are in the food business to share information with me and support and advise me. As a small business, I can pivot very quickly. Also being a small business at this early stage, there are grants that are available to me. People are sending me links to different financial resources that I can take advantage of in Virginia as well as national. I’m very

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onsider the quintessential Southern dishes that accompany family gatherings and Sunday suppers: barbecue ribs, fried chicken, fried catfish, smothered pork chops, collard greens, macaroni and cheese, red beans and rice, corn pudding, steamed cabbage and black eyed peas. Now combine those foods with the convenience of a frozen meal. The outcome is Mouth Meets South. Mouth Meets South will bring delicious, down-home meals to dinner tables across the country by merging farm fresh ingredients with flash-freezing technology to lock in nutritional value and superior flavor. The frozen food products will be competitively priced and convenient for busy families looking for a way to bring everyone together at the table. “Soul food was a staple in our home,” says founder and CEO Tanya M. Howard, who started Mouth Meets South to honor the history, culture, tradition and comfort of Southern cuisine. To begin financing her plan, Howard started an Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign where she was able to raise $10,000 in 60 days. She anticipates Mouth Meets South products being available in stores and online by the end of the year.

entrepreneurial. I’m very progressive. With my business background, I’ve learned of different business opportunities. What’s something your business is doing that sets you apart from other businesses in the same field? Mouth Meets South is a game changer; it’s a disruptor. Frozen food meals have been around for quite some time, but this is the first time that we’re making soul food meals available in individual servings. What strategy or idea has proved to be a success for your business? It’s been suggested to me that you have to get out and talk to people; you have to be very present. I’m networking with the purpose and intention of letting more and more people know what I’m doing, and when I have a need, I try to identify the right people to talk to, the right meetings to go to, to share and give information. Do you have goals to expand and grow in the future, or are you happy remaining a small business? Expand and grow. I’m small now because I’m introducing

this, but I am an entrepreneur. I imagine that at some point when the time is right, we will have a national rollout, if not global—my intention is not to be small. What’s a piece of advice you’d like to share with current or future small business owners? As an entrepreneur you learn as much from your mistakes as you do from your success, and you just keep going. That’s what separates those who are successful to those who may drop out at some point.

Learn more at MouthMeetsSouth.com. —AB

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privately held computer software company, TechArk Solutions is a technology consulting and development company based in Coastal Virginia that serves local, national and international clients. The company is comprised of an awardwinning, nationally recognized team of entrepreneurs, experienced developers and talented designers. They are a premier software applications and consulting firm with expertise in development of native and cross-platform mobile apps, custom enterprise applications, cloud solutions, business processes consulting and tactical marketing expertise. Their design and development team also specializes in responsive website design, graphic design and consistent branding to “Reimagine Your Business.”

TechArk Solutions Owner Pratik Kothari Founded 2012 Location Coastal Virginia and beyond Number of Employees 8

What was the inspiration/motivation for starting your business? I’ve known many entrepreneurs and business leaders with great ideas and business models, but they just needed that extra push to help their business run more efficiently or gain the visibility they needed. They were missing a key piece of functionality on their website or had an idea for an app but didn’t have the technical resources in-house to get it past the finish line. The passion to help them with their technology gaps is what gets me up in the morning and keeps me up at night! What obstacles did you face when starting your business, and how did you overcome them? It was challenging to build the right team. Cultural fit is just as important as skill fit. I wanted to find trusted team members who were client-focused as much as they were technically inclined. I am also cognizant of challenging the team to go beyond their limits while not overpromising our services to

clients. I think it can be easy to want to take on any project while you’re in hypergrowth mode, but it is key to stay laser-focused on what you are offering the marketplace. What do you enjoy most about your business’s location? Coastal Virginia is such a unique melting pot of businesses—from the enterprise organization to the garage startup. I think when you blend the variety of businesses, the diverse backgrounds and the Southern hospitality, you get a business environment that is conducive to building great, long-term relationships. What are some benefits of being a small business? Flexibility. We can react to the marketplace more quickly and move swiftly on decisions. Also, as a small business, all of our team members have a voice in shaping the company. Even as we grow, that will always be an important part of our team culture.

What’s something your business is doing that sets you apart from other businesses in the same field? The web and mobile development market is definitely competitive, but there aren’t many agencies with the breadth of technology solutions we offer. Clients can work with us on all their technology needs and do not have to work with multiple agencies to manage their website and apps. What strategy or idea has proved to be a success for your business? Last year, we really began focusing on how we can transform a business. For technology agencies, it can be tempting to offer a commoditized, template-based product for businesses. We knew our clients wanted to have a distinct look and unique functionality that didn’t copy their competitors. We wanted to help them completely transform their brand’s websites and apps. How has your business evolved since opening? It is constantly evolving, but the major changes we’ve made are expanding the team, growing our customer base and refreshing our own brand. There are a lot of gears moving, so I constantly take a temperature check to make sure it’s smart growth and not growth for growth’s sake. What’s a piece of advice you’d like to share with current or future small business owners? Focus on making small, iterative changes rather than major overhauls that may be inflexible. Listen to the marketplace, and focus on making small changes quickly. Know that making mistakes aren’t going to be detrimental to the success of your business—refocus and then react to the next big opportunity.

Find out more at GoTechArk.com.

—BB

The web and mobile development market is definitely competitive, but there aren’t many agencies with the breadth of technology solutions we offer.

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Integrated Virtual Solutions

When someone told me autistic children learn through touch and feel, I thought maybe this device can help.

Owners Dr. Steven and Karen Richter Founded 2009 Locations Offices in Williamsburg and Norfolk Number of Employees 2

FEATURE | SMALL BUSINESSES

or the millions of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder in the U.S. and around the world, the educational simulation technology created by Integrated Virtual Solutions (IVS) may give them a boost in the classroom. Dr. Steven Richter and his wife, Karen, cofounders and co-owners of IVS, have created T.H.I.S. (Three-Dimensional Haptic Interactive Simulator), a tool that pairs images taken with a 3-D camera with haptic (sense of touch) technology. Originally created to teach young surgeons techniques for operating on the human body, Dr. Richter found another use for the device when he discovered children with autism could use it to explore the world through their fingertips. The system consists of a 40-inch 3-D TV and a device with an articulated arm with a stylus at the end that transmits sensations to correspond with the image on the screen. So when the user sees a 3-D image of an apple, he or she will then be able to feel the smoothness of the apple’s skin through the stylus. Following is a look at the company’s journey to develop T.H.I.S. and Dr. Richter’s hopes for the future of the product.

What was the inspiration/motivation for starting your business? I wanted to create a surgical simulator and change the way healthcare residents are trained. My youngest son is an Air Force pilot, and he was always training on a simulator. No one ever threw him the keys and told him to fly the jet. When someone told me autistic children learn through touch and feel, I thought maybe this device can help. 50

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What obstacles did you face when starting your business? How did you overcome them? My first obstacle was when I asked myself, ‘I’m a doctor; what do I know about business?’ Most people would say funding and money are obstacles, but you are going to fail if you don’t know what to do with that money when you get it. You really have to know the business side. The second hurdle was getting started and getting grant money. Banks aren’t ready to loan to you when you’re just getting started. We funded IVS by raising money from board members. What do you enjoy most about your business’s locations? I really like the calmness of Williamsburg. We opened up an office in Norfolk, and now we qualify for incentives like low-interest global funds. Norfolk is the perfect place for exports. We have gotten more traction in six months of being involved with Norfolk. What are some benefits of being a small business? You can be independent. The Small Business Administration is also a great asset. What’s something your business is doing that sets you apart from other businesses in the same field? The methodology by which we create our software. We use 3-D video cameras. A computer-generated image is not the same as starting with live 3-D video.

We are the only company in the world doing this, and we are applying the technology in ways the creators hadn’t even thought about. Do you have goals to expand and grow in the future, or are you happy remaining a small business? Our plan is to roll out multiple applications for the product. Eventually we want to start an application for animal surgery. We also want to look at military uses. What’s a piece of advice you’d like to share with current or future small business owners? Keep going. Don’t listen to your head; listen to your heart. Your gut and heart will bring it home.

For more information, visit IVS-SIM.com. —JM

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W. P. Large, Inc. (WPL) Owners Billy Almond, Brian Large, Eric Garner, Walter Weeks, Eric Smith, Jack Slagle Founded 1960 Location 242 Mustang Trail, #8, Virginia Beach Number of Employees 30

PL Site Design—a civil engineering, landscape architecture and land surveying firm—has grown from one employee in 1960 to 30 today. They focus on design markets for resort and hospitality, coastal site design, Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area site design and high-end residential landscape design and have recently supported Virginia Beach in many efforts at the Oceanfront, including the original Laskin Road Master Plan for 31 Ocean and continued support of the Strategic Growth Area (SGA) office in their resort planning. They have also volunteered support of JT Grommet Island Playground for EveryBODY and Camp Grom by donating site design, master planning and engineering services. With the growing need for green infrastructure that supports sustainable design and building practices, WPL’s landscape architecture department works daily to promote public welfare. Landscape architects design public open space, parks and recreation that are on the cutting edge of wellness, which is now considered a major component of public health and safety. What was the inspiration/ motivation for starting your business? Wilfred P. Large started as a land-surveying firm out of his truck with one employee, Buddy Pritchard, in 1960. With hard work and determination, Wilfred built the company into a family business and quickly grew the firm in an office he opened up in downtown Norfolk. In the 1990s, Wilfred’s son incorporated the civil engineering component, and in early 2000, Billy Almond joined the team and started the landscape architectural practice. What obstacles did you face when starting your business? How did you overcome them? In the early days, we were responsible for all aspects of a land surveying business but with fewer resources as compared to

today. Performing the surveying, drafting the surveys, making payroll, and landing the next project were all in a day’s work. What do you enjoy most about your business’s location? We are close to I-264, which allows us quick access to almost anywhere we need to be for surveying, construction oversight or design review meetings. We are also located midway between the Oceanfront and Town Center, and we are 15 minutes away from the Virginia Beach Municipal Center. What are some benefits of being a small business? Everyone is like family. We take care of each other, and each employee invests in WPL’s future and in successful projects. We do not have a corporate mentality since a

Pursue excellence, never settle, and always take the high road no matter what it costs because you cannot buy reputation.

design firm has to remain nonconforming and creative. We pursue design excellence as a goal and green sustainability as a mission. We are also too small to compartmentalize, so every discipline is looking over most of our projects and making them better. What’s something your business is doing that sets you apart from other businesses in the same field? We are truly a seamless site design firm. Land surveyors, civil engineers and landscape architects are all collaborating on the same project. Very unique to WPL is the role of the landscape architect, the only design professionals who are truly educated, trained and tested in land planning, site planning and site design. What strategy or idea has proven to be a success for your business? Relationships. We build on them and foster them. The only way to do this is to earn trust by doing the right thing and serving others. We always look for ways we can help our friends and clients without expecting anything in return. Client satisfaction is our most important goal while at the same time promoting stewardship of our land. How has your business evolved since opening? Rooted as a land surveying and engineering practice, WPL grew into a seamless, sustainable site design firm. We incorporate all aspects of land planning and environmental design. Our planning efforts over the last few years far exceeded our

expectations working with the City of Virginia Beach’s SGA office. Our Master Planning and Urban Design expertise have us working with the City of Norfolk, the City of Williamsburg and the Fort Monroe Authority. We are also proud of our six decades of work in K–12 School Site Design practice. Do you have goals to expand and grow in the future, or are you happy remaining a small business? We plan to remain the same size for the immediate future while we concentrate on quality and service for our clients. Even though we are a small firm, we operate as a prime consultant on many projects since a number of us came from architectural firms where we learned how to team. What’s a piece of advice you’d like to share with current or future small business owners? Spend your resources on your people and your technology. Pursue excellence, never settle, and always take the high road no matter what it costs because you cannot buy reputation. Always challenge yourself and try something new. Don’t let fear and risk aversion stifle your creativity and zeal, and always try to put yourself in your client’s shoes. —MMS

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FEATURE | SMALL BUSINESSES

Prince Ink Owner Matthew Wallace Founded 2011 Location 433 Granby St., Norfolk Number of Employees 3

“ f it holds still, we can print on it” is the motto of newly-Norfolk-based screen printers, Prince Ink. And they mean it. While T-shirts are the most requested item, they can print on just about anything—posters, business cards, wood, stone, glass— and tortillas. Yes, tortillas. “A friend of ours owns a taco truck,” explains owner Matthew Wallace. “We used their hot sauce and printed that onto the tortillas. It was exciting and delicious.” They hand-print all of their products, using manual screen presses and proudly refer to themselves as ‘passionately old-fashioned’ in their approach. Prince Ink started out on Mellen Street in Hampton. Last June, they applied to Downtown Norfolk’s Vibrant Spaces initiative and were chosen to receive a grant and relocate to Granby Street. While their Hampton location was more of a showroom, the new Norfolk store will offer a retail component, selling printed products that either they’ve created or their clients have created—all emphasizing the craftsmanship of the products.

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What was the inspiration/motivation for starting your business? I was printing T-shirts on the side as a personal hobby. I used to do stencil art on canvases, and I had a friend say he wanted them as T-shirts, so I looked into how to make that happen and brought a screen print kit. I like having the freedom to just take ideas wherever we want to take them. What do you enjoy most about your business’s location? There’s so much happening around us. We’re not the only ones who are trying to do something fun and exciting. We can just contribute to what everybody else is doing; I like that. There’s also a lot of foot traffic. What are some benefits of being a small business? We’re nimble. We can take the business in a completely different direction if we wanted to. I like that freedom; it’s not as strict as having to play by the rules all the time. Being a small company, you have the ability to improve when you see the opportunity, and it doesn’t take a long time for that to happen. There are bigger shops

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FEATURE | SMALL BUSINESSES

We’re not just trying to make a buck. We’re trying to make something special.

around us that do screen printing, but we offer specialty processes like eco-friendly options and newer technologies. It would cost million-dollar shops way too much money to switch over and offer that service whereas we could test the waters and do it without a huge change to our overhead. What’s something your business is doing that sets you apart from other businesses in the same field? There are plenty of screen print shops, and there are retail shops, but there’s not a lot of people who are doing both of them together. We really focus on the attention to detail and high quality, and I don’t see a lot of print shops doing that. Also, we have a personal relationship with every vendor that we have. We can say, ‘I know the guy that made this,’ or ‘I know the girl that designed this,’ and I think that legitimizes it a little bit more. We’re not just trying to make a buck. We’re trying to make something special. How has your business evolved since opening? We’ve been able to work with more and more people that we admire. Our customer list from when we first

started to now is much more substantial. It’s a higher caliber clientele. Do you have goals to expand and grow in the future, or are you happy remaining a small business? The retail side is going to be a new adventure for us, and we also want to expand our print side. We actually just did that when moving here; we bought some new machinery that’s going to allow us to increase production. We’re going to add letterpress printing to the services as well. Down the line, I could see us offering some more print services, maybe embroidery. What’s a piece of advice you’d like to share with current or future small business owners? Always improve. Always try to make what you’re doing better or make the services that you offer more valuable. We don’t really get too comfortable. We always try to do something different and always look on improving things.

Visit PrinceInk.com for more info. —AB

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FEATURE | SMALL BUSINESSES

CoastWize Owners Heather Kerkering and Steve Woll Founded 2015 Location Corporate Office: Woll works out of Norfolk. Kerkering works out of Williamsburg, Number of Employees 2

s avid water enthusiasts and science professionals, Heather Kerkering and Steve Woll, the duo behind the CoastWize app, recognized a need for improved access and display of relevant marine and weather information for decision-making and planning. So they developed CoastWize to be an all-in-one boating data smartphone app that takes advantage of access to special data sources and developing technologies. The first version of their product is targeted to recreational boaters, who currently have to search multiple places for data on tides, waves, weather and where to dock and eat nearby.

What was the inspiration/motivation for starting your business? We have a history of building data products to address environmental issues. Just standing at the water’s edge, we wanted to know the environmental conditions at that location at that exact time. We also wanted to know if the conditions would change in a couple hours or further offshore. After sorting through numerous websites and apps to find the information, we realized we could build a tool to better serve individuals using environmental data to make decisions. What obstacles did you face when starting your business? How did you overcome them? We really needed help with everything in the beginning: funding, business plan development, marketing and connecting with local resources. We were lucky enough to participate in and find mentorship in many local venues and programs, including: • ODU’s Strome Entrepreneurial Center (We participated in an eight-week class in 2015, run in partnership with VentureHive.) • Start! Peninsula competition (We won!) • National Science Foundation I-Corps Program • Booz Allen’s Ideas Festival 2016 • Many of our local spaces that help with start-ups and entrepreneurs, such as Hatch in Norfolk and the Greater Williamsburg Business Incubator, Launchpad What do you enjoy most about your business’s location? We are part of a great community of start-ups and entrepreneurs. We 54

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also enjoy the proximity to many colleges and universities. Additionally, we are able to take advantage of classes and seminars offered at the local start-up hubs and colleges. And, of course, we love our proximity to water! What are some benefits of being a small business? There are so many decisions to make when starting a new business. With just two employees, I think we are able to forge ahead quickly with decision-making. As we grow, we will look to expand the business capabilities and staff. For now, it is very manageable, and we benefit from being a small company. What’s something your business is doing that sets you apart from other businesses in the same field? We are bringing a wealth of marine and atmospheric data to the user’s fingertips though new, exciting technologies. Our product provides a new, friendlier way to visualize, access and understand complex, but useful, information. What strategy or idea has proved to be a success for your business? We accepted proposals from a few app developers and chose one most fitting to our budget, short- and longterm goals. The app was initially made available on iTunes by invitation only. This allowed us to receive feedback and revise our app before releasing it to the greater iTunes community. How has your business evolved since opening? We started with an idea in the summer of

We realized we could build a tool to better serve individuals using environmental data to make decisions. 2015. We pivoted, networked, fundraised and developed. We’ve experienced success and setbacks. We are now an established LLC and have a product we think people will find useful. Do you have goals to expand and grow in the future, or are you happy remaining a small business? We definitely plan to grow as fast as we can, but we’ll probably be a small business for the near term. We want our product to reach more users and provide more information. We do plan to make the app available in both the iOS and Andriod markets. We want to partner with established businesses and create tailored products for various coastal communities. What’s a piece of advice you’d like to share with current or future small business owners? Never underestimate the power of networking. The startup and entrepreneurial communities want to help and see you succeed. You don’t need to be in Silicon Valley to make it; there are many amazing people, programs and investors right here in Coastal Virginia. —MMS

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Sprouthaus

Participants can sign up for a daily office or pop in once a month for client meetings.

FEATURE | SMALL BUSINESSES

Owner Clint Dalton Founded 2011 Location 259 Granby St., Norfolk Number of Employees 1.75ish

prouthaus (formerly 757 Creative Space) is a community of creative professionals—app developers, architects, marketers, musicians, programmers, poets and more—who share 8,500 square feet of office space in Downtown Norfolk. The “business incubator facility” has a mixture of open work spaces, conference rooms, classrooms and traditional offices that can be utilized by joining one of several membership plans. Participants can sign up for a daily office or pop in once a month for client meetings. No matter the commitment, there’s always free coffee and plenty of collaboration. Owner Clint Dalton best describes the environment: “There are not too many co-working companies that have a couple mad scientists working on biolabs, besides marketing gurus and crack web designers!” Sprouthaus is currently embarking on a brand shift that includes a strategy to help people outside of their walls as well. They will introduce a customized tablet to provide specialized value to their customers even when they aren’t physically at the office. procrastination. I sometimes want to just rush out and buy something, try out an idea, launch another website, rope in another type of customer no matter what. I’ve largely changed my mindset from “doing right away” to “iterating over an idea in my mind.” So, waiting, thinking through scenarios, using improv on unwitting victims/test subjects/meeting attendees to test business theories—these are all games to avoid the mistake of working on the right thing at the wrong time for me. How has your business evolved since opening? We’ve always been a small mom and pop shop. We’re definitely moving wholesale toward some very interesting incubation and acceleration possibilities. We’ll be using some licensed learning content and customized Android devices to allow people to rent apps like Photoshop by the hour or day. So, we’ve evolved in strategy and are working toward a bunch of new plans and procedures as we expand hours and introduce a bunch of partnership possibilities with freelancers, agencies and local tech companies.

What was the inspiration/motivation for starting your business? There was a lack of quality work space for independents and freelancers in Downtown Norfolk. What obstacles did you face when starting your business? How did you overcome them? Being all things all the time to all the people. It’s easy to think you can be customer oriented and be hands on, but it turns out that 80 percent of your time is spent on 20 percent of your customers.

in the best city (Norfolk), in the best region (Coastal Virginia), in the best state (Virginia). Oh, and my daughter Piper can visit me from Governor’s School whenever she gets a chance, and my 4-year-old daughter Harper is my CDO (Chief Distraction Officer) every day at the office after preschool. It was so important early on for me to create an environment where my wife could bring Harper to work with her as an infant and toddler.

What do you enjoy most about your business’s location? Our location is in the heart of Downtown Norfolk’s revitalized Granby Street corridor. There are so many great places to eat nearby. There are many other tech companies up and down the street, and there’s TCC right next to us. We love the loft feel of the offices and the exposed brick walls.

What’s something your business is doing that sets you apart from other businesses in the same field? We’re proud and excited to have a diverse group of companies in the space already, including several inventors, a small army of graphic designers and the Biologik biohack/training facility. And, we’re really excited to say that starting in June, Wu Tang Clan Internet Radio will be fully relocated from New Jersey to begin broadcasting out of Sprouthaus!

What are some benefits of being a small business? We get to dream and do

What strategy or idea has proved to be a success for your business? Mindful

Do you have goals to expand and grow in the future, or are you happy remaining a small business? Sprouthaus has a “strategy” strategy this year to incubate and accelerate a few key business interests around education, entertainment and, of course, co-working. What’s a piece of advice you’d like to share with current or future small business owners? Be brave when it comes to your belief system. If stuff doesn’t “test well” with your average Joe, find your above average Joe and have the conversation again. My biggest piece of advice is to stop the madness of living somewhere, dropping the kids off somewhere else, then driving to another place, and then rewinding all that eight hours later. Live, work and play blocks from all the important stuff. But at the end of the day, business advice is meaningless without family and friends to care for and who care for you. Love the people around you. They’re the real reason you should be in business. Visit 757CreativeSpace.com for more info. —MMS W W W. C O V A B I Z M A G . C O M

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FEATURE | SMALL BUSINESSES

The Pack Road Trip Travel Club Owner Andrae J. Marable Founded 2014 Location Home-based, Churchland section of Portsmouth Number of Employees 1

ndrae Marable believes that traveling together is better, which is why he started The Pack Road Trip Travel Club. Once a shy guy, he is now the leader of the pack. Balancing his day job as a project manager at Norfolk Naval Station with his side business isn’t easy, but planning bus trips keeps him motivated and energized. Customer service is at the heart of everything Marable does, and he goes the extra mile to ensure those who travel with him get the most memories for their money. He selects unique destinations, including wineries, festivals and NBA games, and then works with venues to create memorable experiences. Marable discusses his business’s trials and successes, the importance of making time for fun and his plans for the road ahead. What was the inspiration/motivation for starting your business? My parents didn’t have a lot of money, so my family didn’t do much traveling when I was little. I wanted to travel, and I wanted to share my experiences with others at an affordable cost. I had planned road trips with friends, and they had such a good time they pushed me to make it into a business. What obstacles did you face when starting your business? How did you overcome them? Marketing was an obstacle. I knew it was important, but I didn’t realize how expensive it was. I had to get creative. I advertised my trips on free online calendars, attended networking events and sent press releases to newspapers. I wasn’t a Facebooker before, and that was a huge learning curve, but it was cheap to advertise. What do you enjoy most about your business’s location? I don’t have a physical location yet, so I am able to work from home. I thought it would be an obstacle, but people have some level of confidence in me and are used to doing business online. Winning the Portsmouth Small Business of the Year Award from the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce also helped.

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What are some benefits of being a small business? I like being hands-on and having a one-on-one connection. I develop a good relationship with my clients, and we are like family in a way. Being a small business gives me the ability for a personal touch. It’s like “Cheers.” Everybody knows your name. What’s something your business is doing that sets you apart from other businesses in the same field? Lots of other travel groups take a trip to Atlantic City every weekend. Mine are a little different. We do winery tours and things other than casinos. Our customer service is different, too. When a person signs up for a trip, they are a VIP in my book. I send them updates through e-mail, and a week before, I send them a completely detailed itinerary so they know what to expect. I have been on other bus trips, and that level of customer service just wasn’t there. What strategy or idea has proven to be a success for your business? Planning social events. I didn’t think they would be a big deal, but they are. People look forward to them. They like being together and having face time. Working with other businesses in Hampton Roads has also worked well.

I had planned road trips with friends, and they had such a good time they pushed me to make it into a business.

What’s a piece of advice you’d like to share with current or future small business owners? Stay positive, and don’t get discouraged. Take time to enjoy life. A lot of people think all about the dollars. Take time away because it’s all still going to be there tomorrow.

Learn more at ThePackTravelClub.com. —JM

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IRGINIA MA L V G

VIRGINIA

MA G

OVABESTO •

•

F C

VAB EST O

PARTY 2016

#CO

BESTof

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A ST

July 28, 2016 Sandler Center for the Performing Arts Honoring the businesses recognized in Coastal Virginia Magazine’s annual Best Of Readers’ Choice Contest.

FOOD SAMPLES FROM LOCAL RESTAURANTS | LIVE ENTERTAINMENT BENEFITING THE ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION SOUTHEASTERN VIRGINIA CHAPTER

PRESENTED BY

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Ready for Your

Close-Up WITH KAMRA INLAY, YOU CAN PUT THOSE READERS AWAY | By K.H. Queen

eri had 30 pairs of reading glasses but could never find a pair when she needed them to read a recipe, read her phone or work on her computer. Now, thanks to a procedure called KAMRA Inlay, she is done with readers for good. “Three years ago, I was in readers for everything,” says Meri, 50. “I needed them for my cell phone, all day at work on the computer, shopping and when dining out. They’re never where you need them. There’s a delay—you have to stop what you’re doing and find your glasses. Put them on. Take them off. You might do it 60 times a day.” Meri estimates she spent at least 15 minutes a day looking for reading glasses. So when she heard about the KAMRA Inlay procedure that restores near vision, she began doing her homework. The FDA approved the procedure in 2015 after five years of study in the United States, says ophthalmologist Dr. Peyton Neatrour, of Beach Eye Care, the first practice in Virginia to offer KAMRA Inlay. In the last 10 years, more than 20,000 patients worldwide have had the implants, Neatrour says. Beach Eye Care began doing the procedure in October. Meri had the implant done in the first month. Although patients get just one implant—in their non-dominant eye—the KAMRA Inlay is not mono-vision, Neatrour says. “It gives you the full range of vision—distance, intermediate and near,” he says. Near and intermediate vision should be 20/20–25 with distance vision at 20/20 to 20/40—good enough to drive day and night

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Before considering the surgery, Neatrour without glasses. The eye without the implant is does extensive testing first to make sure the just for distance. KAMRA Inlay is the right choice for each “With the KAMRA Inlay, you can sit at your patient. For example, patients who already desk, look closely at papers, look at your comhave a cataract aren’t good candidates. Patients puter at the intermediate distance and look with dry eyes aren’t necessarily excluded but at something out your window at a distance,” need to have the dry eye issue under control Neatrour says. “You can see all three of those.” first, he says. Once the patient Patients should allow is confirmed to be a good canseveral months to didate for the KAMRA Inlay, see how much vision With the KAMRA Neatrour does extensive tests to improvement they’ll get. determine exactly where in the Meri says she achieved Inlay, you can sit eye the implant will be placed. 20/20 near, intermediate at your desk, look The procedure, which is not and distance in about closely at papers, covered by insurance, costs two weeks. about $3,800. It takes about 20 Patients might want look at your comminutes, he says. to save one pair of readputer at the interThe procedure is also reversing glasses. In dim light ible. Less than one percent or when your eyes are mediate distance of patients may find after the tired, you may need the and look at someimplant is added that it’s not occasional readers. Meri thing out your right for them. They can get has had to use readit taken out, and their vision ing glasses a few times window at a disreturns to what it was before at work when reading tance, you can see surgery, Neatrour says. faded, fine print. But Meri is thrilled. At 15 minutes her 30 pairs of readers all three of those. a day since Nov. 1, she’s saved at home are stowed in a more than a full work week—45 bag in a closet. The implant itself is smaller than the pupil of hours—in time not looking for reading glasses. “I never anticipated something like this was your eye, 6 percent of the thickness of a piece going to come out,” she says. “Whether I need of paper with a diameter of 3.6 millimeters, to look something up on my phone, or my Neatrour says. It’s a quarter the size of a concomputer, now I don’t have to spend time looktact lens. ing for glasses. I just jump from one thing to The procedure is FDA approved for ages 45 the next without delay. It was a lifetime hassle to 60, but the implant can be used outside that eliminated in 20 minutes.” range, says Neatrour, who has done them for patients as young as 43 and as old as early 70s.

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90 Miles of Shoreline. 360 Degrees of Opportunity. For a climate that promises success in every direction, grow your business in Portsmouth. Call today to discuss your needs and learn about our vast opportunities. All 360 degrees of them.

Department of Economic Development 757-393-8804 | portsmouthvaed.com

W W W. C O V A B I Z M A G . C O M

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Accent Kitchens makes your dreams come true. COMPLETE OUR FREE ONLINE KITCHEN PLANNER AND GET AN ESTIMATE IN A FEW DAYS!

accentkitchens.info/kitchenplanner

VIRGINIA BEACH

4143 Virginia Beach Blvd.

SINCE 1981

NEWPORT NEWS 12600 Jefferson Ave.

757-320-2527

757-890-0101

MON-FRI 9am to 5pm, OPEN SAT 10am-1:30pm

MON-FRI 9am to 5pm, SAT BY APPT

CABINETS • COUNTERTOPS • TILE • CARPENTRY • PLUMBING • ELECTRICAL 60

CALL OR VISIT ONE OF OUR SHOWROOMS TODAY!

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PROFESSIONALS SERVING PROFESSIONALS

PROFESSIONALS

SERVING

PROFESSIONALS

2016

W W W. C O V A B I Z M A G . C O M

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PROFESSIONALS SERVING PROFESSIONALS

PROFESSIONALS

SERVING

2016

PROFESSIONALS

VANDEVENTER BLACK LLP 101 W. Main Street 500 World Trade Center Norfolk, VA 23510 VanBlackLaw.com 1) What makes our service unsurpassed?

At Vandeventer Black, we deliver exceptional legal services through our team of experienced attorneys. Our attorneys are award-winning and knowledgeable on a wide variety of legal topics covering basic business needs to complex litigation. Our firm prioritizes responsiveness and results for our clients. We are accessible, efficient, and responsive to dynamic and developing legal needs.

2) Type of companies serviced?

Vandeventer Black is a dynamic business law firm, providing legal services to local, national and international businesses since 1883. We are able to serve your business as your primary legal resource.

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PROFESSIONALS

BEACH CHEMICAL & PAPER CO., INC. 1356 London Bridge Rd., Virginia Beach, VA 23453 (757) 427-2002 • (800) 922-8843 info@beachchemical.com • www.beachchemical.com 1) What makes our service unsurpassed?

Knowledgeable sales staff, on-time deliveries, courteous, accommodating drivers and a 99% fill rate.

2) Type of companies serviced?

Enjoying a 36 year history in the community, we service a wide variety of cleaning contractors, local restaurants, hotels and miscellaneous commercial businesses.

3) Mission statement

Beach Chemical & Paper Co., Inc. is fully committed to enhancing professionalism in the sanitary maintenance industry and to the customer/supplier relationship. This will be accomplished through quality service, products, and specialized educational programs that satisfy customer needs.

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PROFESSIONALS SERVING PROFESSIONALS

PROFESSIONALS

SERVING PROFESSIONALS

2016

SUPERIOR EXECUTIVE TRANSPORTATION For Reservations Call 757-567-0353 www.getsetgo.us 1) What makes our service unsurpassed?

Top notch chauffeurs, professional trained reservation and dispatch, modern technology. Our clients arrive at their destination knowing they made the right SET choice.

2) What we would like to be known for in the area?

3) Mission statement

Our mission is to provide every person with the best available transportation service. Our clients receive safe, secure, reliable service. Your reservation: PMade PConfirmed PCompleted

SET is the leading transportation choice for business professionals in the Hampton Roads area. Sleek, comfortable backseat rides equipped with Wi-Fi allow our clients to take their work on the road.

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SPECIAL SECTION

CONTINUING EDUCATION

KNOWLEDGE IS

POWER

ODU’S COLLEGE OF CONTINUING EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT IS READY TO BOOST YOU TO YOUR NEXT STEP | By Barrett Baker

inger, songwriter, record producer and actress Mary J. Blige once said, “I wish I had known that education is the key. That knowledge is power. Now I pick up books and watch educational shows with my husband. I’m seeing now knowledge can elevate you.” If you want to fast track your way to better knowledge, go with a name you know. Old Dominion University recently created the College of Continuing Education and Professional Development to assist people in their quest for higher education. “This is very exciting for us because we are trying to position ODU to be a university where people will go to do their professional development,” says Dr. James M. Shaeffer, Sr., the founding dean of the new college. “So what we’ve done is brought all of the continuing education units together, on campus, to provide a one-stop shop for people looking to get ahead in their current fields, make career changes or get certifications to keep their professional licenses in tact. So if you want to pursue your professional education, no matter what it may be, this is where you come.” The College of Continuing Education and Professional Development was officially established in February 2014 with the mission of providing high-quality professional development and personal continuing education opportunities for non-traditional learners. The College serves as a primary entry point for businesses, industry, manufacturers, military, nonprofits, entrepreneurs and government agencies to the resources of Old Dominion University.

THE NEW COLLEGE OFFERS: Customized Programming Degree Completion Programs Certificate Training Certification Training Personal Enrichment Courses Seminar Training Conference Hosting Open Enrollment Courses Summer Camps

These courses are offered via online, distance learning, face-to-face instruction and hybrid teaching methods. “What I really want people to know about us is that we are in the business of offering non-credit, customized courses, as well as those for credit,” says Dean Shaeffer. “Whatever is needed for someone to do their professional development.” A couple of practical examples of how the new college can benefit individuals is summed up by the College’s Executive Director, Clair M. Dorsey. “We have credential-based programs that will help you get things like your Project Management Professional designation. Or, if you already have a bachelor’s degree and you want to go into teaching, we can provide what is needed to get your Virginia teaching license.” The Old Dominion University College of Continuing Education and Professional Development is located at the Virginia Beach Higher Education Center. “We are in the process of building an advisory board of business professionals, which will include Old Dominion University faculty members,” Dorsey says. “Once we have that in place we can start reaching out to local businesses to let them know what is available.”

For more information, call 757-453-6880 or visit ODU.edu/CEPD.

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16 hours

14 hours

Come Climb For A Cause!

Businesses, School Groups, Charitable Groups And More Are Welcome.

12 hours

About The Longest Day The Longest Day® is a team event to raise funds and awareness for the Alzheimer’s Association®. Held annually around the date of the summer solstice, the duration of this sunrise-to-sunset event symbolizes the challenging journey of those living with the disease and their caregivers. Teams are encouraged to create their own experience as they fundraise and participate in an activity they love to honor someone facing the disease.

The CoVa Challenge Coastal Virginia Magazine and the Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium in Virginia Beach are challenging climbers to join our team or sponsor us to raise much needed funds for the Alzheimer’s Association for research and family support.

8 hours

The challenge of our Longest Day will be to have at least one person from the team on a specified course continuously throughout the 16 hour day which will begin at 7 AM on June 16 and end at 11 PM that evening. Participants climb for free but will be required to participate in one 4-hour shift during the day and raise a minimum of $100 in donations. There will be a

limit of 100 climbers, so get your group together and sign on today.

CoVaLongestDay.com

Please email Tracy at Tracy@vgnet.com or call (757) 422-8979, ext 156 for more information.

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CREATED IN COVA

AQUARIA BAJA BREEZE, constructed from high-quality, closed-cell foam that stands up to harsh elements, including sun, pool chemicals and salt water.

BUSINESS IS GOING SWIMMINGLY

SwimWays

ased in Virginia Beach, SwimWays Corp. is a privately-owned manufacturer producing a variety of pool floats, toys and games, pool decorations and products used for swim training. Their products are then distributed in more than 20,000 storefronts, serving their mission to make free time more fun through innovation. In 2007, SwimWays entered a corporate partnership with Operation Smile, also headquartered in Virginia Beach, and has donated nearly $1 million to the organization. 757-460-1156 | SwimWays.com

Want to recommend a product created in CoVa? Let us know: Angela@CoVaBIZMag.com

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PHOTO BY DAVID UHRIN

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