Tourist attractions
Virginia Beach has three tourist attractions of nationwide prominence that are now threatened. The highly respected Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art moved out of its Oceanfront location and the heavily visited city-owned Virginia Aquarium has maintenance problems and may have to limit its popular exhibits.
The third star in our tourism heaven is the iconic Virginia Beach National Golf Club designed by world-famous architect Pete Dye. For golfers, this is a big attraction. The adjoining First Tee course, done by Alice Dye, is run by the YMCA and teaches children life lessons as well as golf.
This last jewel will go away if the City Council decides to chop up this treasure for housing. Once gone, unlike the other two major attractions, it cannot be replaced. The idea that you can severely change Pete Dye’s layout and it won’t matter to players is not valid. It’s also paving over another piece of existing watershed.
How are we compensating for these lost tourist assets and their generated income?
Barbara Fleming, Virginia Beach
Enduring impact
Hampton Roads is fortunate to be shaped by the vision and generosity of two remarkable women, Jane P. Batten and Joan P. Brock. Their names have become synonymous with philanthropy, leadership and a steadfast commitment to enriching lives.
Batten and Brock were equal partners with their distinguished husbands in advancing initiatives that strengthened universities, expanded the arts and supported civic projects. Since their husbands’ passing, they have carried forward that shared legacy with remarkable dedication, ensuring the values they once championed together continue to thrive.
What distinguishes their contributions is not only the financial support they provide, but the spirit behind it. They understand that philanthropy is about investing in people, ideas and institutions that elevate us all. Their continued generosity has opened doors for students, sustained cultural programs and strengthened community projects that might otherwise have struggled.
The heritage they are building is one of hope and opportunity. It reminds us that leadership is not confined to titles or positions, but is demonstrated through action and compassion. Because of Batten and Brock, our community is more resilient, more vibrant and more connected.
Their work is a living legacy, carried forward in the opportunities they continue to sustain.
Joanne M. Renn-Barnes, VWU executive director emeritus of intercollegiate athletics, Virginia Beach
Scouting
Recently, NPR reported that Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth wants to cut federal support for Scouting America. Hegseth claims, “Scouting is attacking boy-friendly spaces.” This claim is false.
Girls and boys are in separate troops. I have been scouting since I was 5 and I am in a linked troop now, which is two troops, one boys troop and a girls troop, both sponsored by the same church.
Scouting America’s mission is to get kids outdoors and produce educated, well-rounded productive citizens. This mission is nonpartisan and should stay that way. The mission should be to teach young people about how to make good, educated decisions. The ideals of scouting, the opportunities it creates, and community felt should be available to everyone.
My experience in scouting has shaped my life in many ways. In Cub Scouts, I was able to first experience my love for the outdoors. Now, in the troop, I camp monthly, serve my community and learn important life skills.
I am signed up for the National Scout Jamboree next summer. I am excited to attend this unique experience, however the medical and logistical support from the DOD is essential for the safety and success of the event.
Potentially cutting support for Scouting America would not only be taking away support for an impactful program creating lifelong memories, but taking away some of its once-in-a-scouting-experience events.
Sofia Miller, Troop 5364, Norfolk
