What: MJ’s Tavern Where: 4019 Granby St., Norfolk, VA Hours: 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. every single day Website:https://mjstavern.com/
It’s Tuesday afternoon and already the tables are filling up at MJ’s Tavern in the Riverview neighborhood of Granby Street. Owner John Childers walks the floors like a man satisfied with a dozen years of hard work at building one of Norfolk’s top spots for both LGBTQ+ culture – and, oh yeah, great food.
In the corner, a group of senior ladies sit playing Mahjong. We later discover they’ve been meeting here for decades – since the place was known as Mason’s Eastern Shore Seafood Restaurant in the 1940s and ‘50s. At the bar, patrons sip beers and watch sports while others mill about outside on the deck. Others tuck into plates of steaks, chicken strips and french fries. It’s an impressive scene for any time of day, much less a midweek afternoon in mid-spring.
“Every day is a good day,” Childers says. “It’s a nice little crowd in there too. When you get to 65, everyday is a good day.”
Ok, so John is technically 64 and a half, but he’s reached the stage of life where he’s earned a little rounding up.
Food. Friends. Family.
Twelve years ago, Childers and then-husband, Mike, bought the old restaurant and got to work adding a patio and, eventually The Shed, a gathering place for local groups who play poker and other shared interests on weeknights. With an eclectic background in the military, shipbuilding and fast food, it was an inevitability that Childers would end up serving his community.
“We wanted it to be like our house, like our church,” he says. “Everybody is welcome.”
Everybody includes the house dog, Caviar, who quietly follows Childers through the property, eager to go for a post-interview walk.
“I really like this. And if you don’t like this, this is not a job for you.”
Thanks to this inclusive approach to clientele, the LGBTQ+ community of Norfolk sees MJ’s as something of a refuge from everyday life. A place where patrons can be themselves without catering to societal expectations, and where they can find comfort food at its finest.
“That’s the way my church is. You come to my house and you’re hungry, you better eat. And if you do go away hungry at my house or here, it’s your own fault because we serve you a very fine portion for a reasonable price and most people take like half a sandwich home with them,” Childers says.
What’s On The Menu
The menu at MJ’s stays relatively stationary except for seasonal additions. Childers says this is purposeful because he has always listened to what customers like and don’t like.
Credit: @mjstavern Instagram
Favorite menu items include chicken strips and fries (the top seller) and a daily Blue Plate special of chicken fried steak, meatloaf or spaghetti. Homemade mashed potatoes and gravy round out the menu while each day has its own culinary theme.
“People like it, and it’s fast, it’s easy.”
Country Fried Steak smothered in-house pepper gravy with mashed potatoes Credit: @mjstavern Instagram
A Busy Events Schedule
According to Childers, “there’s always something going on.” It’s karaoke on Monday, music bingo and pool on Tuesday, bar trivia on Wednesday, Texas Hold ‘Em poker in the Shed on Thursdays and a brunch followed by Sunday Tea to cap off each week.
Speaking of what he calls the “Tea Dance,” Childers says, “Back in the day, gays would get together and they would they couldn’t be out and open. So we’d be sitting like this car and we would be drinking our tea, which would be spiked, of course, and we’d be dishing the tea.”
Childers says this is a way of honoring people who came before him.
In between, there have been marriages, celebrations of life, birthday parties and military reenlistment ceremonies at MJ’s.
Childers is quick to recognize those who keep the operations running on a day-to-day basis. He calls out bar manager Jamie, kitchen manager Greg and a trio of James’s and a Dakota who also contribute to MJ’s success.
“This is the best staff I’ve ever had,” he says. “We are very, very blessed. I can go out of town. I went 13 days to Hawaii. And I came back and it was still here. That’s a good thing. That is a wonderful thing.”
The Carnival Sunshine returns to Norfolk in 2025! Sailing to the Bahamas and the Exotic Eastern Caribbean, cruises will enjoy 6- and 8-day tours from Norfolk.
What: Alkaline Ramen Where: 742 W. 21st St. Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday; closed on Monday and Tuesday Details:www.alkalineramen.com/
Technically, it’s factual to say that Alkaline is a ramen shop in Ghent. But that doesn’t tell you a single thing about one of Norfolk’s top culinary institutions. Step inside and sit a spell, maybe over a bowl of triple garlic tonkotsu or a plate of miso butter cake, and it dawns on you that this little ramen joint isn’t running after the latest trends or following a template. Alkaline is a deeply personal experience, and it is shaped by the story of owner Kevin Ordonez and the flavors that have defined his life so far.
“This restaurant is built around me being a first-generation Filipino-American where I grew up eating both things,” he says, “and I kind of exist in between being Asian and American. I don’t speak Tagalog. I’m not Japanese. The way that I chose was to do it based off what I thought my life was like. I wanted to design a restaurant or build a concept around what I liked.”
Pacific Roots
When you learn about Ordonez’s life story, it all starts to make sense. For the most part, his culinary journey stretches across the Pacific. Born in San Diego, raised in a Navy family, he lived in Guam and Washington State before spending six formative years in Japan. “Those were the years where I was really starting to form opinions about the world.”
Despite his time in some of the world’s top hotspots for mouthwatering food, Ordonez is clear on one point: “None of our food is traditional. Like, not even the appetizers. Everything starts from something — maybe it’s a flavor, or an ingredient, or just a feeling I’m trying to recreate from a memory.”
Hand-Crafted Goodness
That philosophy plays out across a menu that’s part focused and part experimental. Yes, there’s a stable foundation. Just look at the core ramen dishes and longtime staples like sticky wings and tots. Yet, if you look at the printed paper menu, it rotates with seasonal dishes created by the staff. Kitchen manager Lerone, who started part-time in 2018, now leads that side of the kitchen. “He’s amazing,” Ordonez says. “All the specials you’ve seen in the last year? That’s all him. I almost don’t have a hand in it anymore.”
On the bar side, Danni brings a similar approach, often spending 72 hours building the bases of drinks. “Her cocktail program has the same mentality as our food. It’s very intentional, very prep-heavy, and then quick on the pickup because all of our stuff is designed to be pretty quick.”
Alkaline’s menu reflects the layered, in-between identity Ordonez has lived his whole life. A bowl might start with dashi, finish with coconut and carry just enough heat to linger. The Love Letter cocktail, a bright, citrusy pink number, plays against type, bringing a touch of nuance to a simple coupe glass. And that miso butter cake? “To me, it’s got that warm, memory kind of feeling. Take it home and have it with your coffee in the morning and it’s like the best way to start your day.”
Emerging from Difficult Times
Like many independent restaurants, Alkaline faced a mind-bogglingly brutal stretch during the pandemic. They pivoted to takeout, launched a campaign called Feed 1500, and partnered with José Andrés’ World Central Kitchen to serve nearly 8,000 meals to local hospitals and first responders. But the real challenge came in the years that followed.
“From 2020 to 2023, it was just trying to lose the least amount of money possible,” Ordonez says. “But last year, we finally broke even. We’re like, ‘okay, like, maybe we can make it.’”
Rising food costs, shrinking margins, and staffing challenges forced the team to adapt. Pre-COVID, the kitchen ran with five people in the morning and eight at night. Today, it’s two in the morning and a much smaller crew overall. The menu has been streamlined, the operations tightened, but the standard remains the same: fully from-scratch cooking with no shortcuts.
“All of our food is authentic, and what I mean by that is everything, like everything we make here is made here,” he says. “We’re a fully from scratch kitchen. We’re not really buying in product. That’s not really what we do. And I don’t have any judgment towards that one way or another. But that’s just how we do it here.”
Ordonez adds, “I don’t care if it makes a ton of money. If I was (concerned about money), I would’ve opened five of them by now. Cookie-cutter Alkalines. But that was never the goal. You can’t replicate this.”
Alkaline, Ordonez stresses, is too tied to the people, the process, the way the team works.
These days, Ordonez splits his time between Alkaline and expanding Virginia Beach hot dog joint Frank and Patty’s. But even as his world expands, Alkaline remains something close to home. In the end, Alkaline is an extension of his story, his culture, and the food that shaped him.
Kevin’s recommended meal for two:
Cocktails: Love Letter
Starters: Brussels sprouts or green bean salad (vegetarian), Tater tot Okonomiyaki, Asian sticky wings (featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives)
Entrees: Triple garlic tonkatsu ramen, Spicy red curry ramenBeef noodle soup (featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives)
June means many things to people in Norfolk, from the rapidly warming temps to the kickoff of Harborfest and beach days. But it’s also the time of year when Hampton Roads’ LGBTQIA+ community comes out in full force to celebrate the region’s diversity and acceptance.
From family-friendly gatherings to rambunctious nightlife, the city provides activities for residents and visitors alike all month long.
Pride Month Events in Norfolk
Pride Kickoff at d’Art Center May 30, 2025 The d’Art Center launches Pride Month with an evening of art, music, and community engagement. Attendees can explore exhibitions by LGBTQIA+ artists and participate in interactive workshops.
Pride Night at the Virginia Zoo UPDATE: Rescheduled to June 27, 2025, 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM The Virginia Zoo hosts an inclusive evening featuring animal encounters, live entertainment and educational exhibits. This event welcomes families and individuals of all ages to celebrate diversity in a unique setting.
Hampton Roads Pride Weekend Highlights
Neon Dreams Pride Block Party at The NorVa June 20, 2025, 7:00 PM The NorVa hosts a high-energy evening with DJ sets, drag performances, and dancing. This 18+ event serves as the official kickoff to Pride Weekend.
PrideFest at Town Point Park June 21, 2025, Noon – 7 PM PrideFest features live music, a boat parade, and a family zone. The event is free and open to the public, offering activities for all ages.
Official PrideFest After-Party at Waterside District June 21, 2025, 8 PM Waterside District continues the celebration with music, cocktails and socializing. Attendees can enjoy performances and connect with the community in a festive atmosphere.
LGBTQ+ Friendly Norfolk
When it comes to reputation, Norfolk has long been one of the most inclusive cities in Virginia. Mermaid City has a strong LGBTQ+ presence woven into its neighborhoods, nightlife, arts scene and local politics. The city scored a perfect 100 on the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index, thanks in part to anti-discrimination laws, city leadership, and support for LGBTQ+ residents and visitors. Look around, and you’ll see rainbow crosswalks in the NEON District and active community representation through organizations like Hampton Roads Pride, Stonewall Sports, and the LGBT Life Center.
Nightlife is a central part of the local LGBTQ+ experience, and Norfolk offers options ranging from casual bars to full-on drag venues. The Wave is a long-running nightclub known for high-energy dance floors and late-night drag shows. MJ’s Tavern is more laid-back, with strong drinks, pub fare, and a popular Sunday drag brunch.For a quieter evening, Cure Coffeehouse and Commune both offer safe, inclusive atmospheres for coffee or cocktails.
Outside of nightlife, the city also has LGBTQ+-owned and allied businesses throughout the arts, wellness, and retail communities. d’Art Center and the Chrysler Museum of Art regularly feature queer artists and exhibitions. In the NEON District and Ghent, you’ll find boutiques like Velvet Witch, a metaphysical shop run by queer owners, and Kitsch, which carries goods from LGBTQ+ makers. Whether you’re here for a weekend or making a longer stay, Norfolk offers not just tolerance, but meaningful visibility and connection.
Getting to Norfolk and Navigating the City
When parking in Downtown Norfolk, fear not. The city has more than 19,000 public parking spaces, including garages within easy walking distance of the park. The closest garages include:
Waterside Garage (135 Waterside Dr.)
Main Street Garage (110 W Main St.)
MacArthur Center Garages (across the street from the park)
Visitors coming from out of town can arrive via Amtrak to Norfolk Station or fly into Norfolk International Airport. The Tide light rail also stops a few blocks away at MacArthur Square Station. Those driving can find handy highway directions on the Festevents site here. Locals should consider riding the Tide or, if the weather cooperates, biking the Elizabeth River Trail to get to Town Point without worrying about parking.
Well, would you look at that? June, already! This month in Norfolk is defined by live music, waterfront festivals, historic observances and film and art programming. Here’s just a small sampling of Mermaid City’s late spring/early summer offerings.
Norfolk Tides
Harbor Park June 1; 10-15; 24-29, 2025
Your Norfolk Tides, Triple-A affiliates of the Baltimore Orioles offer up a pair of long homestands this month, taking on the Nashville Sounds (Milwaukee Brewers) and the Gwinnett Stripers (Atlanta Braves).
Norfolk is home to a pair of recurring farmers’ markets, with Ghent hosting them the first and third Fridays of each month from 4 to 7 p.m., and East Beach holding them each Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon.
Steve Earle is one of the most acclaimed singer-songwriters of his generation. A protege of legendary songwriters Townes Van Zandt and Guy Clark, he quickly became a master storyteller in his own right, with his songs being recorded by Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Joan Baez, Emmylou Harris, The Pretenders, and countless others. 1986 saw the release of his record, Guitar Town, which shot to number one on the country charts and is now regarded as a classic of the Americana genre. Most recently, Earle’s 1988 hit Copperhead Road was made an official state song of Tennessee in 2023.
One of the most beloved and celebrated singers of our time, 2023 Kennedy Center Honoree and National Medal of Arts recipient Renée Fleming captivates audiences around the world with her sumptuous voice, consummate artistry, and compelling stage presence. In this breathtaking performance inspired by the Grammy Award-winning album, Fleming explores humankind’s evolving relationship with nature, performing works by Handel, Björk, Fauré, Puccini, and Jerome Kern, with a beautiful projected film created for the program with National Geographic. “Nothing short of mesmerizing… the music and the stunning film enveloped listeners… engendered awe and wonder” (The Boston Musical Intelligencer).
Presented by Virginia Arts Festival. A dream team of expressive, virtuosic artists! “Electric, vibrant” (Musical Opinion) violinist Lana Trotovšek, “sensitive, elegant” (Gramophone) cellist Nina Kotova, and award-winning pianist János Balázs join Olga Kern in an exploration of Beethoven classics.
Pop-punk veterans Mayday Parade return to The NorVa for a night that will appeal to fans of the early 2000s emo revival and younger audiences alike. Known for their energetic live shows and emotionally direct lyrics, they’re joined by supporting acts Microwave, Grayscale, and Like Roses. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and this one is likely to sell out.
The Naro continues its partnership with Exhibition on Screen, presenting a thoughtful look at how artists like Monet, Degas, Renoir, and Pissarro shifted the course of Western painting. This film dives into the context and consequences of the first Impressionist exhibition in 1874. Ideal for those looking to learn something on a weeknight without feeling talked down to.
The city’s signature waterfront event, Harborfest has been running for nearly half a century and remains one of the most ambitious free maritime festivals in the country. Visitors can board tall ships and Navy vessels, browse vendor tents along the Elizabeth River, and take in live music all weekend. It opens with Friday’s Parade of Sail and ends with a major fireworks show on Saturday night. festevents.org
Keyshawn “The Businessman” Davis has his scope set on a successful title defense. Davis will defend his WBO lightweight crown in a homecoming spectacle against Dominican knockout artist Edwin De Los Santos on Saturday, June 7, at Scope Arena.
At just 25, she already has three Grammy Awards, including the 2023 Best New Artist and Best Jazz Vocal Album and the 2024 Best Jazz Performance. Samara Joy’s 2024 Virginia Arts Festival performance sold out—order your tickets now to guarantee your seats for this return engagement.
Hailed as “The Nicest Man in Stand-Up,” by The Atlantic Magazine and “One of the Funniest People,” by CBS Morning, Grammy nominated comedian, podcaster, director and producer Nate Bargatze is selling out shows and breaking venue attendance records with more than 1.2 million tickets sold on his The Be Funny Tour. He is currently the #1 earning comedian in the world according to Pollstar’s recent report, and #12 in overall live tour tickets sales, putting him in the company of Coldplay, Madonna and U2.
He’s a 19-time Grammy winner who has performed for nine American presidents and been presented both the National Medal of Arts and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. But beyond his musical mastery, Yo-Yo Ma has become an ambassador for humanity, championing music and the arts as a path to peace and understanding. This special performance pairs repertoire from the center of his musical firmament with reflections on how it has shaped his thinking about art, human nature, and our search for meaning. Together, the cellist’s music and words ask us to consider what music is for, and how it can guide us on a path to hope.
Gifted young stars and longtime Virginia Symphony Orchestra members join Olga Kern for unforgettable performances of classical favorites including Schubert’s “Trout” Quintet and others.
Bad Suns brings their polished, radio-ready indie rock to The NorVa with support from Texas-based Little Image and UK synth-rockers The Ramona Flowers. Expect a night of layered guitar work, crisp vocals, and tracks that toe the line between upbeat and melancholic. Doors at 6:30 p.m. General admission, standing room only.
This summer, join us at the Hermitage Museum & Gardens for our 15th Anniversary of Sunsets on the River! Relax on the shoreline and enjoy live concerts from across the musical spectrum, including Alternative Rock, Blues, Country, Yacht Rock, and more. June 12 features ROCKY 7.
Presented by the City of Norfolk and Festevents, this annual gathering marks the end of slavery in the U.S. with music, cultural presentations, and speakers. Expect a strong community turnout, food vendors, and a serious tone mixed with family-friendly programming. The event wraps with fireworks over the Elizabeth River at 9:30 p.m.
Perhaps he’s best known as Theo Huxtable on “The Cosby Show,” but Warner is also a musician, especially known as a spoken-word artist. With his jazz band Miles Long, he recorded the albums The Miles Long Mixtape (2004), Love & Other Social Issues (2007), and Selfless (2015). Warner’s Hiding in Plain View (2022) earned a Grammy Award nomination for best spoken-word poetry album. He also collaborated with other musicians, and in 2015 he shared the Grammy for best traditional R&B performance with the band the Robert Glasper Experiment and singer Lalah Hathaway for their rendition of the 1973 Stevie Wonder song “Jesus Children of America.” The single featured Warner’s spoken-word performance and Hathaway’s vocals.
To celebrate all the amazing fathers in our community, this Father’s Day we are offering free train rides on the Virginia Zoo Express to all dads, grandfathers or father-figures! Valid on Father’s Day, June 15, 2025 only.
Rising country-folk singer Sam Barber brings a stripped-down performance style that leans heavily on storytelling and sincerity. His songs—often just voice and guitar—have built a solid online following, and his live sets showcase an understated presence rarely seen on the touring circuit these days. If you like Zach Bryan or Tyler Childers, this one’s worth checking out.
This longstanding festival draws thousands each year and combines LGBTQIA+ advocacy with music, food, local organizations, and vendor booths. It’s celebratory but also grounded in the region’s community work. Past headliners have included drag queens, brass bands, and local DJs. Admission is free.
Staten Island native Sal Vulcano is best known for creating and starring in truTV’s long-running hit “Impractical Jokers,” and for “The Misery Index” on TBS. In addition to performing as part of The Tenderloins Comedy Troupe to sold-out arenas, Sal founded the No Presh Network in 2020, hosting “Hey Babe!” and “Taste Buds” podcasts. Sal’s debut solo comedy special ‘Terrified’ was released in May 2024 on YouTube.
Norfolk Public Library, Slover Memorial Main Branch, Location: Norfolk VA, Architect: Newman Architects
Led by Norfolk Tour Company, this free one-hour walking tour explores the built environment of downtown Norfolk. Topics include modernist development, historic preservation, and the political forces that shaped the city’s current layout. No reservations required, but early arrival is recommended.
Blending elements of country, trap, and mainstream pop, Kidd G occupies a space that appeals to younger audiences raised on Spotify playlists rather than traditional radio. His biggest tracks—“Dirt Road,” “Summer in a Small Town”—have clocked tens of millions of streams, and his live shows tend to skew energetic and unfiltered.
If you hear the sound of a second line or smell the distinctive aroma of Old Bay and crawfish boiling this weekend, that’s just the Bayou Bon Vivant Cajun Music, Food & Art Festival returning to Town Point Park.
The event runs Friday through Sunday May 16-18, bringing live crawfish (or mud bugs if you prefer) by the ton, a full lineup of Louisiana musicians and a healthy dash of regional art and food vendors. It’s one of Norfolk’s signature spring festivals, and this year’s schedule is packed.
Event Overview
The festival opens with a free lunch preview (food prices still apply) on Friday from noon to 2 p.m., followed by ticketed admission from 2 to 10 p.m. Saturday hours are noon to 10 p.m., and Sunday runs from noon to 6 p.m. The event takes place at Town Point Park, directly on the Elizabeth River waterfront.
Visitors can expect a mix of live music across two stages, a curated marketplace with more than 30 makers from New Orleans and the Southeast and a family area. Details on the daily schedule, pricing and activities are at https://festevents.org/events/2025/bayou/.
Food
Hard to believe we have to say this out loud, but yes, the food is a major draw. More than 8,000 pounds of live crawfish will be boiled on-site and served up with corn and potatoes and your hot sauce of choice (or if you’re a real pro, you’ll bring your own). You’ll also find staples like jambalaya, chicken and sausage gumbo, red beans and rice, shrimp and grits and fried gator tail. Beignets and chicory coffee round out the menu.
Everything is made to order and overseen by chefs with deep Louisiana roots. You can view the full food list and vendor information here.
Music & Entertainment
This year’s headliners include Tank and the Bangas, Better Than Ezra, The Soul Rebels, Bonerama and Big Sam’s Funky Nation. The full lineup features more than a dozen acts over three days, covering zydeco, brass band, funk, blues and indie rock.
Each day features its own distinct musical vibe. Friday leans into funk and soul. Saturday brings bigger acts with a party atmosphere. Sunday is lighter, but still delivers strong New Orleans roots performances. Set times are available here.
Bayou Bon Vivant, Courtesy Festevents
Getting to Norfolk & Parking
When parking in Downtown Norfolk, fear not. The city has more than 19,000 public parking spaces, including garages within easy walking distance of the park. The closest garages include:
Waterside Garage (135 Waterside Dr.)
Main Street Garage (110 W Main St.)
MacArthur Center Garages (across the street from the park)
Visitors coming from out of town can arrive via Amtrak to Norfolk Station or fly into Norfolk International Airport. The Tide light rail also stops a few blocks away at MacArthur Square Station. Those driving can find handy highway directions on the Festevents site here. Locals should consider riding the Tide or, if the weather cooperates, biking the Elizabeth River Trail to get to Town Point without worrying about parking.
It’s 2 p.m. on a mid-Spring Tuesday and the elevators at 254 Granby Street are packed with dancers in warmups, painters with portfolios and teenagers hauling cellos larger than themselves. This is how one school day ends and an afternoon of creative learning begins.
The Governor’s School for the Arts (GSArts) is a public, regional program serving high school students from across southeastern Virginia. Students arrive each afternoon from Chesapeake, Franklin, Portsmouth, Suffolk and, of course, Norfolk and Virginia Beach, to spend their second half of the day getting hands-on, intensive training across six disciplines: dance, visual arts, instrumental music, vocal music, theater/film and musical theater.
From a School Without Walls to a Downtown Footprint
While GSA has existed in various forms since the mid-1980s, its current home, which is divided among three adapted structures downtown, boasts early 20th Century retail architecture that’s been reimagined for today’s needs. Longtime locals may remember the building as being home to W.T. Grant’s in the 1950s. Touches of the store, such as a floor directory and signs pointing to Granby Street, remain. The terrazzo lobby, once trod daily by shoppers, now hosts parents awaiting performance call times. Elevators once built to transport floor-model furniture now carry upright basses, canvases and kilns.
“We were created as a school without walls,” said Assistant Director Debra Thorpe, who guided a recent tour through the facility. For years, GSARTs operated out of scattered borrowed spaces across Norfolk.
Selective, Competitive and Publicly Funded
The program serves about 420 students each year. Students are selected through competitive auditions and interviews, and demand is high. More than 400 applicants typically compete for roughly 100 openings each fall. GSA receives 45 percent of its funding from the state, with the remainder coming from tuition paid by the school districts it serves. A separate foundation supports special initiatives, scholarships and capital improvement.
Thorpe, who retires this summer after decades of work in education, pointed out that GSA’s strength lies not only in its infrastructure but in its people. Every faculty member is a working artist, she says. Better put, the school operates on mentorship by practitioners, not just teachers.
From Local Stages to Global Screens
Among the alumni: Adrienne Warren, who won a Tony Award for her portrayal of Tina Turner on Broadway; Flash star Grant Gustin; and jazz pianist and composer Justin Kauflin, who gained international attention in Keep On Keepin’ On, a documentary chronicling his mentorship with jazz trumpet legend Clark Terry and eventual work with Quincy Jones.
On a weekday afternoon, the building is anything but quiet. In one visual arts classroom, students sketch daily journal prompts that blend the philosophical with the irreverent.One asked herself, “What am I made of?” before filling a page with renderings of cheese. In the ceramics studio, others glaze mugs and sculptural forms. Downstairs, film students fine-tune edits in small bays ahead of their year-end showcase at the Naro Expanded Cinema.
Elsewhere, a violin ensemble rehearses with visible precision. Dancers float and pivot across a floor that was once part of the W.T. Grant stockroom. Musical theater students rehearse a full-length production in one room while, next door, a quiet hallway of individual soundproof practice rooms fills with bursts of soprano arias and jazz standards.
Partnering with Local Orgs
Another perk of attending GSArts is the school’s deep connection with local and regional arts organizations. According to Thorpe, “at the onset of the school, partnerships with arts organizations was always in the plan.”
Some of the groups GSArts students get to work closely with include Virginia Arts Festival, VA Opera and the Virginia Stage Company.
“The larger arts community understands the value of meaningful master classes and want to share their resources with our students,” Thorpe says. “Professionals bring years of real-world experience, offering practical advice, techniques and insights that go beyond academic theory.”
Thorpe adds that working with accomplished artists can inspire students to “push boundaries, stay motivated and envision new possibilities in their field.” She says, “master classes often create direct connections with industry professionals and fellow students, opening doors to future collaborations, mentorships, and job opportunities.”
More Ecosystem Than School
Combine all these elements and you don’t just get a romanticized “school of the arts” but something closer to a functioning arts ecosystem: part pre-professional training ground, part public education experiment and part working studio complex. In short, real art is made here by real students, and the school’s leadership – including Thorpe – wouldn’t have it any other way.
May 4-10, 2025 is National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW), an annual tradition to celebrate the U.S. travel community and tourism’s essential role in stimulating economic growth, cultivating vibrant communities, creating quality job opportunities, inspiring new businesses and elevating the quality of life for Americans every day.
Tourism is essential to our region and plays an integral role in Norfolk’s economy. As the third largest economic driver for our city, the travel and tourism industry mobilized a $149.7 million impact in fiscal year 2023. With over 7,000 jobs in the tourism and hospitality sector, our industry attracts a multitude of talents and provides significant economic benefits to both local businesses and Norfolk residents.
To celebrate tourism in our city and to shine a light on the individuals and teams who make Norfolk such a welcoming city to experience, VisitNorfolk established in 2002 the Champion of Hospitality Awards. In March and April, we invited anyone who has had a positive hospitality experience in Norfolk to nominate an individual or an entire team for the Champion of Hospitality Awards. We are excited to share the winners of this year’s awards and encourage you to visit these Champions of Hospitality in person during your next Norfolk experience.
Peter G. Decker, Jr. Hospitality Associate of the Year
Renee Evans Museum Director, Hunter House Victorian Museum
“Renee is my boss, and I could not have asked for a more dedicated person in the museum field. She has been with the Hunter House Victorian Museum for over 16+ years, starting out as a volunteer and working to become the Executive Museum Director. She has done everything from events, giving lectures, handling archives, pretty much a complete jack-of-all-trades. We are a small team of three, and as a boss she is considerate and fully believes in the healthiness of a work life balance. She is fiercely dedicated to the mission of the house and her staff, and I could not ask for a better leader in this field.
“Candiss is SO amazing. She is my right hand, and she goes above beyond her job. If a hand is needed on the cook line, she will jump in and cook. Outstanding with the guest and makes them feels right at home, she keeps all of us grounded and levelheaded no matter how busy we are. A year ago, Candiss was diagnosed with breast cancer and went through a rough patch, but never once did she let me down. Candiss would come to work with dedication, and this was each day after having chemo the following day. She never once let us down when she was down and gave 100% to everything she did. I nominate her not only because she is the strongest person I know but because she is an outstanding employee.”
– Nominated by Brandy Bowman
Geoffrey Eppley Virginia Zoo educators and guest engagement team
“Geoffrey Eppley is the volunteer coordinator at the Virginia Zoo and has done some of the most amazing work keeping local kids involved in conservation issues, team building environments, and professional development. Any one of the volunteers at the zoo knows Geoffrey and speaks very highly of the positive work environment he creates for everybody. outside of his work with volunteers he is on the education team staff which does some amazing work connecting guests to the natural world. He cares about individuals and makes sure to talk to every single person he meets that has any questions for him. He is constantly outside on the grounds connecting people with some of the amazing things they get to see.”
– Nominated by Evelyn Lee
Mandy Lee Director of Operations, Armed Forces Reunions
“Mandy has 18 years of experience in hospitality and has taken on AFR Tours as the cruise market has exploded the past few years. She manages tour guides, bus vendors, local attractions and does it all with a great personality and terrific skill. She’s a calming influence on cruise tour days, keeping vendors, cruise terminal staff, cruise ship staff, and most importantly our Norfolk visitors happy and enjoying their time in our city! Behind the scenes she’s professional and efficient and truly keeps the wheels on the bus (pun intended!)” – Nominated by Molly Dey
Alyana Craig Norfolk Admirals
“Aly goes above and beyond in her service to Norfolk Admirals ticket buyers throughout the season and especially in her customer facing role at games. Whether that is making memories for first timers or ensuring our faithful long time season ticket holders feel seen and heard, Aly is a true consummate professional when it comes to guest services. Her ability to troubleshoot issues with a smile, provide a family friendly atmosphere, and be passionate about Norfolk Admirals Hockey is unmatched. Aly is highly deserving of recognition as one of the very best guest relations staff members in the region.”
– Nominated by Casey Christensen, Norfolk Admirals
The Slover Visitor Services & Events Team
“The Visitor Services and Events Team here at The Slover hosted over 1,500 events during 2024. Their commitment to excellence and service for the City of Norfolk and its citizens is unparalleled. They regularly go above and beyond what is requested and do their best to ensure every event goes smoothly.”
– Nominated by Katie Rawlings, The Slover Marketing Manager
Nellie Clinkscales Executive Housekeeper
“Nellie fully embodies the work that is housekeeping. She comes in on days off, comes in early, stays late and does what is needed to give guests the best in room experience. Nellie takes pride in her job and knows everything about her department. Nellie is also great with guests, having a professional demeanor and getting them the help that they need, even if it’s not her department.”
– Nominated by Bryanna Njegovan
Monica Skinner Neptune’s Fury Coffee
“Exceptional customer service, always served with a smile, kindness and knowledge of all things coffee!!! Makes wonderful suggestions and leaves a positive start to the day, after visiting. This is what keeps us coming back!!”
– Nominated by Dana Chapman
Tony Ruffin Professional Dishwasher
“Tony is truly a professional and master at his craft. Once you have the honor and privilege to work beside him, you realize that he’s the heartbeat of the restaurant. He fills in the gaps wherever he can and always has positive energy. He has been working in restaurants for over thirty years and when the chips are on the table and it’s going down, he’s the guy you want fighting by your side. Tony is hands down the best dishwasher in Hampton Roads. He’s the GOAT.”
– Nominated by Jennifer Eichert
Tricia Hodges Norfolk Airport Authority
“Tricia Hodges, Norfolk Airport Authority Volunteer Coordinator, is an exceptional employee at Norfolk International Airport. Her assistance goes beyond just helping travelers navigate the airport. Have specific questions about your passport or visa? She can help! Left an item in the bathroom? She’s calling Lost & Found for you! Need to print out an important doc in a pinch? She can assist! Tricia is a born problem solver and always goes above and beyond for our guests. She also offers personalized recommendations for local attractions, restaurants, and hotel stays. Tricia efficiently manages a team of over 40 volunteers and demonstrates outstanding leadership and organizational skills. Her dedication and hard work make her an invaluable asset to the Authority. Tricia enhances our visitors’ experience and is a warm welcome to all of those passing through the airport. There is no better person to greet or assist you when you land in Norfolk, VA!”
– Nominated by Erin Murdock
Noemie and Lola La Brioche
“Noemie has been working three years with commitment through the years. Lola is in her first job as an high school student and is completely dedicated to La Brioche. Working week end with exceptional service.”
– Nominated by Jacqueline and Yvan Devulder
John Mark Tise Press 626
“John has put his heart and soul to bringing Press 626 to life with his personal attention to both customers and staff. He single-handedly manages the magical flow of the restaurant, procuring positive energy daily, and efficiently navigating the ebbs and flows of staff’s requests. He is truly the conductor to our little, but mighty orchestra. He is humble, but such a beautiful human who would very much appreciate the acknowledgment of his hard work and dedication, outside of the Press family. John takes our ‘Come as you are’ mantra to another level, ensuring everyone feels welcome in out establishment.”
– Nominated by Lindsay Bennett
Wilbert Miller Van Shuttle Driver, DoubleTree Norfolk Airport
“Wilbert is coming up to completing his fourth year as a shuttle driver at the DoubleTree Norfolk Airport. Wilbert is always on time for work and picks up extra shifts as needed. Wilbert knows all the short cuts to the airport and local restaurants but when it comes to guest service, he does not take any short cuts. Wilbert is over top about keeping a clean shuttle, just like he does for his own vehicle, and about having those water bottles for the guests nice and cool in the summer. And for our airline crews, he not only has their room keys so they can bypass the front desk, he has the world famous DoubleTree cookies ready for them as well! Wilbert is just one of those employees that makes a great first and last impression on our guests. We are so lucky to have him on the DoubleTree team!”
– Nominated by Mary Elizabeth Collins
Tina Swan CityCruises
“For over 20 years, Tina has been supporting tourism through the waterways of Norfolk. She is always willing to help while being a huge supporter of VisitNorfolk. She is retiring this year and it would be wonderful to recognize all of her great work.”
– Nominated by Sarah Hughes
James Bongiovi Police Officer
“Officer Bongiovi is always smiling the week of the Tattoo as coaches from all of the United States come to Norfolk, Virginia, for the performances, attractions, arts, or the Saturday parade. He always ensures that coaches are well taken care of when in the city, and the guests aboard them have a wonderful experience. Groups who return year after year to the Tattoo have learned his name and look for him upon their arrival at the Scope Arena.”
– Nominated by Melissa Hopper
The Seven Venues Production Department
“The Seven Venues Production Department is one of the hardest working, most humble teams in the City of Norfolk. They are a group of three very talented and dedicated employees. They oversee the technical and operational aspects of all events across the City of Norfolk’s SevenVenues. Their primary duties include supervising load-ins, show executions and load-outs. This makes for very long days and nights. The team manages all elements of production, including lighting, sound, video, internet, pyrotechnics, rigging, and overall backstage operations, ensuring every show runs smoothly, safely, and professionally from start to finish. They are never in the spotlight and are rarely recognized, but without them, there would be no shows. When you are fortunate enough to cross paths with Steven, Jakob or Gordon, they are earnest, helpful and always ready to help. SevenVenues would be lost without them.”
From our friends at the Downtown Norfolk Council, a note about parking the weekend of May 3-4, 2025 during the Spring Town Point Wine Festival.
STREET CLOSURES
EASTBOUND WATERSIDE DRIVE Friday, May 2 at 11am – Sunday, May 4 at 11pm Eastbound Waterside Drive between Main Street and Martin’s Lane will be closed under Norfolk Police control for event setup. All lanes of eastbound Waterside Drive from Martin’s Lane to St. Paul’s Boulevard will remain open. Friday, closure will start at 10am and be secured by 11am for the weekend.
WESTBOUND WATERSIDE DRIVE Friday, May 2 at 11am – Sunday, May 4 at 11pm Westbound Waterside Drive between Martin’s Lane and Main Street will be closed under Norfolk Police control. Two outside lanes of westbound Waterside Drive between St. Paul’s Boulevard and Atlantic Street will remain open to traffic. Through traffic will be merged into one lane and detoured onto northbound Atlantic Street for access to Main Street and parking garages. Westbound median lane from St. Paul’s Boulevard to Atlantic Street will be restricted to emergency vehicle access only.
BOUSH STREET Friday, May 2 at 11am – Sunday, May 4 at 11pm Southbound Boush Street from Brambleton Avenue to Main Street will remain open. Vehicles will be detoured under NPD control to eastbound Main Street. Northbound Boush Street from Main Street to Brambleton Avenue will remain open.
ATLANTIC STREET Friday, May 2 at 11am – Sunday, May 4 at 11pm Northbound Atlantic Street will remain open from Waterside Drive to Main Street. Southbound traffic will be detoured onto eastbound Waterside Drive.
MARTIN’S LANE Friday, May 2 at 11am – Sunday, May 4 at 11pm North and southbound traffic will remain unrestricted at all times. Southbound traffic will be detoured onto eastbound Waterside Drive. Access will be maintained to Towne Bank/Prince Books parking lot and World Trade Center loading dock at all times.
COMMERCIAL PLACE Open to traffic and unrestricted for the duration of the event closures.
PARKING REMOVALS / SUPPORT VEHICLE PARKING
EASTBOUND WATERSIDE DRIVE No restrictions to normal on-street parking operations between Martin’s Lane and Atlantic Street.
WESTBOUND WATERSIDE DRIVE Friday, May 2 at 11am – Sunday, May 4 at 11pm Parking will be removed on westbound Waterside Drive from Atlantic Street to Martin’s Lane. Parking lane will be used for festival support vehicles.
ATLANTIC STREET Friday, May 2 at 11am – Sunday, May 4 at 11pm Parking will be removed on northbound Atlantic Street from Waterside Drive to Main Street.
COMMERCIAL PLACE Friday, May 2 at 11am – Sunday, May 4 at 11pm No restrictions to normal on-street parking operations between Waterside Drive and Main Street.
MAIN STREET Friday, May 2 at 6pm – Sunday, May 3 at 11pm Parking will be removed from eastbound and westbound Main Street between Boush Street and Granby Street for festival support vehicle parking. Parking will be removed from eastbound and westbound Main Street between Granby Street and Martin’s Lane (no festival support vehicle parking). The taxi loading zone on E. Main Street between Martin’s Lane and Atlantic Street will be closed.
For details on Wine Festival and to purchase tickets, click here.
What: Zemlinsky Quartet with Olga Kern When: May 22, 2025 Time: 7:30 p.m. Location: Robin Hixon Theater, Clay and Jay Barr Education Center Tickets: VAF website Program: Dvořák’s fiery Piano Quintet No. 2.
What: Virginia Arts Festival Players with Olga Kern When: June 11, 2025 Time: 7:30 p.m. Location: Robin Hixon Theater, Clay and Jay Barr Education Center Tickets:VAF website Program: HAYDN Piano Trio No. 39 “Gypsy,” DOPPLER Souvenir du Rigi, SAMAZEULH Esquires D’Espagne-Chant Sans Parole (1914), GLINKA Trio Pathetique, SCHUBERT Piano Quintet in A major, D. 667 “Trout”
Olga Kern has not only played with some of the world’s finest musicians – she is one of them. Over the decades, Kern has won some of classical music’s highest honors and dazzled audiences from Moscow to Manhattan. But this spring, she’s right at home in Norfolk.
“I’m here every year,” she says. “It’s a big visit — and a big part of my musical year.”
Kern, a Russian-American pianist with a vibrant stage presence and a clear love for repertoire that’s on the Romantic side, is back for the Virginia Arts Festival’s 2025 season with not one, but two Norfolk performances — and a lineup of collaborators that span continents and traditions.
She’ll first appear May 22 alongside the much-acclaimed Zemlinsky Quartet, tackling Dvořák’s fiery Piano Quintet No. 2. Then, on June 11, she returns to lead a series of chamber concerts alongside the Virginia Arts Festival Chamber Players. Kern will be joined by local artists and international guests.
Kern has become a fixture of the Virginia Arts Festival’s chamber music series — more than just a performer, she’s also its artistic director. It’s a role she says she enjoys immensely.
“As a pianist, it’s rare to get this kind of opportunity — to really dedicate time to chamber music. Usually it’s all recitals and concertos,” she says. “But here, I get to invite the musicians I most want to work with. Every year is different, and that’s what makes it exciting.”
Schubert and More
Among the many highlights is Schubert’s “Trout Quintet,” an unconventional piece that includes the double bass — unusual for chamber settings and, as Kern says, a key part of the magic.
“It gives it such a deep, warm sound. It’s exciting for piano, too. There’s a lot to play,” she says. “Everyone knows the theme — people may not realize it, but it’s one of those melodies that lives in the culture.”
That accessibility is something Kern cares deeply about. She knows that for some audiences, chamber music can feel intimidating or opaque, but that’s not how she sees it.
“This music comes from the heart,” she says. “It’s meant to be shared, not understood like some academic text. Even with contemporary pieces — we choose ones that are fun to hear. It’s all about making it easy to enjoy.”
For someone whose career spans major concert halls and festivals around the world, Kern remains firmly grounded. Perhaps this can be attributed to her roots — both her parents were pianists, and her connection to the Romantic tradition runs deep (she’s even distantly related to Anna Petrovna Kern, the muse of Russian poet Alexander Pushkin). Or maybe it’s her energy, which is equally intense on stage and off – as when chatting via Zoom about the upcoming Norfolk shows.
Seeing Colors in Music
Kern has often spoken of “seeing” color in music.
“Some pieces feel like blue, others gold or silver. Rachmaninoff is red. Mozart feels more classical — maybe gold. Beethoven? Sometimes blue. I talk to my designer about all of this,” she says. “It’s part of the show.”
As for newcomers, Kern offers one piece of advice: Come as you are.
“Don’t be afraid of classical music,” she says. “You’ll hear something you recognize, even if you think you haven’t. It’s in the movies, the culture. It all came from here.”
