Good Morning Virginia Beach!

The votes from last week’s poll are in, and the #1 response by a landslide is that you love having local events all in one place without having to search for them.

The second most popular answer was discovering local businesses you can support.

We love seeing that, because that’s exactly what VB Living is all about. Thank you for sharing your feedback with us.

• A local favorite is up for a national title again
• A new concept is taking over a familiar VB spot
• A longtime local staple is celebrating a major milestone
• And tons of events to get you out and moving this weekend

Let’s get into it!

— Kim Checcio

Big news for higher education right here in Virginia Beach. Old Dominion University is earning recognition in the latest U.S. News & World Report 2026 Best Online Programs rankings.

Out of more than 1,800 programs evaluated nationwide, ODU’s online bachelor’s in business program ranked No. 1 in Virginia. Several other programs, including nursing and computer information technology, also placed in the top three statewide, with strong rankings for veterans as well.

Even more notable, multiple ODUGlobal programs improved their national standing from last year, signaling continued growth and investment in online education.

For locals looking to advance their careers from home, ODU is standing out as a top option right here in our backyard.

👉🏼 Click Here: See Where ODU Stands

Norfolk Botanical Garden is back in the spotlight after taking the #1 spot last year and is now nominated again for Best Butterfly Garden in the U.S. in the USA Today 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards.

For four decades, Cinema Cafe has been doing movie night differently, and locals are still showing up for it.

What started in 1986 as a small twin theater serving food and beer has grown into a full experience across five locations in Virginia. Over the years, Cinema Cafe has evolved with luxury recliners, upgraded sound systems, full kitchens, and bars, while keeping fan favorites like made-from-scratch pizza and affordable pricing.

But what really sets it apart is the community feel. From family-friendly events like Little Date Night and Summer Movie Bash to red carpet premieres with local performers, it’s always been about more than just the movie.

Now celebrating 40 years, they’re rolling out specials, throwback ‘80s films, and limited-edition merch to mark the milestone.

👉🏼 Click Here: See What’s Planned for the 40th Celebration

Biscuits & Bird is taking over the old Hardee’s on VB Blvd, with plans to open later this summer near Pembroke. Created by Boddie-Noell Enterprises, the spot will still lean into what locals loved, like scratch-made biscuits and hand-breaded chicken, but with a fresh twist. Think comfort food favorites mixed with upgraded options, plus a full lineup of drinks including lattes, iced coffees, flavored teas, and more.

The Painted Tree has closed its doors this week. They will not be conducting any further retail sales at any of their locations, per an email to their shop owners this week.

April issues have been delivered to over 5,000 local mailboxes. We thank the families for sharing their stories and the local businesses who sponsor our neighborhoods.

📸 Sami Roy Photography