Which retractable dog leashes are best?

Retractable leashes are great for dogs that don’t have good recall or for use in parks and on trails where dogs must be kept on leashes. They give dogs some extra freedom to roam and explore while remaining safely restrained. 

They come in a range of lengths and widths and have various braking and locking mechanisms, so it can take some searching to find the one for you. 

What is a retractable dog leash? 

A retractable dog leash is one that extends and retracts as needed. The leash is coiled inside the handle and extends when your dog moves away from you. When the distance closes, the leash automatically retracts, winding back into the handle. You can also lock the leash, which is great when you need closer control, such as when you’re near a road or an unknown dog is approaching. 

What to look for in a retractable dog leash

It helps to know what you want from a retractable leash before you buy one. This makes it easier to narrow your choices and choose a leash that works well for you and your pet. 

Leash length

Most retractable leashes are somewhere between 10 and 26 feet long, but 16 feet is by far the most common. A 16-foot leash gives dogs a decent amount of freedom to explore without getting so far that they get in trouble or it’s hard to get them back when needed. 

Cord vs. tape

Retractable leashes can either have wide, flat tape leashes or thin cord leashes. While the cord varieties are fine for small dogs, they’re not ideal for large or strong dogs. A cord leash is also more likely to injure you or your dog if you get tangled up in it.

Locking mechanism

The locking mechanism should be secure so it doesn’t fail even if your dog pulls hard against it, and it should be easy to operate. Ideally, you should be able to quickly and easily lock it with one hand. 

Reflective stitching

Reflective stitching down the length of the leash makes your dog more visible in low light. This reduces the risk of accidents if you walk your dog late at night or early in the morning. 

Ergonomic handle

Handles on retractable leashes are bulky and not always comfortable to hold. Ergonomic handles are more pleasant to hold onto, which makes a big difference on long hikes. 

Best retractable leashes under $20

Fida Retractable Dog Leash

This 16-foot leash has a tangle-free mechanism and reflective stitching for low-light safety. You can choose from four sizes. The smallest size is suitable for dogs up to 18 pounds, and the largest size can be used for dogs up to 110 pounds. 

Sold by Amazon

Tug Tangle-Free Heavy-Duty Retractable Dog Leash

With its sturdy nylon tape leash and 360-degree, tangle-free mechanism, it’s a great choice for strong, active dogs. The quick-lock system is easy to control, so there’s no need to stress when you spot a hazard ahead. 

Sold by Amazon

Mighty Paw Retractable Dog Leash 

The standard version of this leash is suitable for dogs up to 110 pounds, while the “lite” version is for dogs up to 50 pounds. Both are durable and easy to lock with a reflective ring on the handle for nighttime visibility. 

Sold by Amazon

Best retractable leashes $20 and over

Flexi New Classic Retractable Dog Leash

This highly durable leash has a thick tape made from tough material and comes in lengths from 10 to 26 feet. It has a comfortable ergonomic handle and a reliable, intuitive braking and locking system. 

Sold by Amazon

Wigzi Original Dual Doggie Reflective Retractable Dog Leash

If you have two dogs, this dual extendable leash is the perfect choice. It features two leashes that extend, retract and lock independently of one another, so you have total control of both dogs at once. 

Sold by Amazon

Emperor Pets Retractable Dog Leash

With a tangle-free design and a one-hand braking and locking mechanism, this leash is a pleasure to use. It’s available in two lengths — 16 and 26 feet — so there’s an option to suit most pet parents. 

Sold by Amazon

Beastron Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash

This model features a tough impact-resistant handle and a strong 16-foot leash. It has an ergonomic handle, tangle-free retraction and a poop bag holder with bags. 

Sold by Amazon

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Lauren Corona writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

© 2023 BestReviews. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC

The Prime Day savings have only just begun

Day one of Prime Day is over. But that doesn’t mean the deals are done. In fact, now is the time to roll up your sleeves and dive deep into the savings. If you know where to look, you can still get thousands of items, such as wireless earbuds or an air purifier, for incredibly low prices. To help you zero in on the best bargains, we’ve curated a list of top deals still remaining.

Last updated on July 11, 2023, at 04:15 p.m. PT

Top Prime Day deals that are still remaining

Please note that because Prime Day is a live event, the deals that were available when the article was written may not be the same by the time you read about them here.

Echo Buds (2023 Release): 30% OFF

This is the newest generation of Echo Buds. They offer a full sound with a balanced bass and a quick charge battery that provides two hours of listening after just 15 minutes of charging. The built-in microphones let you access Alexa and make calls just by using your voice.

Available at Amazon

Instant Pot Vortex Plus: 46% OFF

This versatile appliance offers six-in-one functionality, so you can air fry, broil, roast, dehydrate, bake and reheat at the press of a button. The unit has minimal preheat time with a peak temperature range of 400 degrees while the customizable feature lets you program parameters for your favorite foods to increase convenience.

Available at Amazon

Ninja DZ401 Foodi: 22% OFF

The standout feature of the Ninja air fryer is its dual independent baskets. They let you cook two foods in two ways at the same time, eliminating the need for back-to-back sessions. The extra-large capacity gives you 10 quarts of cooking space, making it suitable for large family meals.

Available at Amazon

Toyventive Wooden Kids Activity Cube: 34% OFF

This toddler toy set can help your child with color, shape and pattern recognition, as well as developing counting and math skills. Each cube features five activities. The cube’s top can be detached and flipped for easy storage.

Available at Amazon

Sharpie S-Gel: 61% OFF

One of the most recognizable names in markers is now making pens. The Sharpie S-Gel is a sleek metal writing implement with a stylish look and no-smear/no-bleed application of intense colors. The contoured rubber grip provides the user with a comfortable, premium writing experience.

Available at Amazon

Keurig K-Mini Plus: 28% OFF

If you like coffee for one every morning, this mini Keurig is for you. It is a single-serve model that holds up to nine pods and has a compact five-inch-wide design so it can fit in even the smallest kitchen. Just add a pod and water to get fresh, steaming hot coffee in minutes.

Available at Amazon

Sharpie Electro Pop Permanent Markers: 71% OFF

Everyone knows that Sharpies come in black. However, were you aware you could get them in nearly any color you desire? This pack of 24 markers features eye-popping colors, such as Optic Orange, Techno Blue, Ultra Violet, Electric Pink and more. The fast-drying ink resists fading while the versatile tip produces both bold and fine lines.

Available at Amazon

Shark HP102PK2 Clean Sense Air Purifier: 42% OFF

The filters in this two-pack of air purifiers exceed high-efficiency particulate air filter standards. They can reduce allergens, micropollutants and more, giving you a home with cleaner, fresher air. The intelligent sensors automatically adjust performance to offer the most efficient cleaning at all times. Each model can clear up to 500 square feet per hour.

Available at Amazon

Braun Electric Razor for Men: 20% OFF

Braun is a name you can trust. This high-quality razor has a flexible head with a ProLift trimmer that can grab even flat-lying hair for an effective, efficient shave. The slide-out trimmer gives you the precision needed for sideburn and mustache detailing while the battery lasts up to six weeks on a single charge.

Available at Amazon

L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Waterproof Mascara: 44% OFF

Full, thick and rich lashes can create a captivating focal point. This mascara from L’Oreal Paris adds length and volume without smudging, clumping or flaking. The waterproof formula delivers up to 20 times the volume while doubling the length, giving you a look that’s selfie-ready.

Available at Amazon

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation): 20% OFF

Apple’s wireless earbud offering has something the other brands don’t: spatial audio. This innovative feature places the sound at various points around your ear to give you immersive audio. Like other models, Apple also has a noise cancellation mode for private moments and a transparent mode when you need to hear the environment.

Available at Amazon

Fire TV Stick 4K Max: 55% OFF

If you’re still confined by cable, it might be time to consider raising your TV’s IQ. The Fire TV Stick plugs in and gives you immediate access to the internet so the vast world of streaming is at your fingertips. Or, if you prefer, just a verbal command away with the Alexa voice remote.

Available at Amazon

Kindle Scribe Essentials Bundle: 30% OFF

This bundle can elevate your Kindle experience to the next level. The package comes with a Kindle Scribe, a premium pen, a fabric folio cover and a power adapter, giving you everything you need for a quality digital reading and writing experience.

Available at Amazon

Vego Garden Raised Garden Bed Kit: 20% OFF

Raised bed gardening is an excellent way to make the most of your gardening space no matter where you live. The innovative design lets you assemble the durable zinc, magnesium and aluminum-coated steel containers effortlessly, even if you have little to no construction knowledge. The 17-inch depth gives the root system plenty of room to develop for healthier plants.

Available at Amazon

Amazon Basics Silicone: 40% OFF

A silicone baking mat takes the place of products such as aluminum foil and parchment paper, giving you a reusable non-stick option that doesn’t require grease or cooking sprays, and can be quickly cleaned with soap and warm water. This mat is oven-safe up to 480 degrees and is designed to fit half-sheet pans.

Available at Amazon

Amazon Echo Pop: 57% OFF

The latest device in Amazon’s Echo line is small enough to fit anywhere you want to put it, yet it still has the power of a full-size model. When you need some privacy, just press the mic-off button to prevent Alexa from listening.

Available at Amazon

Limited Edition “Star Wars” Stormtrooper Stand for Amazon Echo Dot: 25% OFF

Give your Echo Dot (4th or 5th gen) a whole new look with this Stormtrooper stand. When you call Alexa, the eyes light up, producing a cool effect. The stand is 7 inches tall and can be placed nearly anywhere you would put your Echo Dot. 

Available at Amazon

iRobot Roomba s9 Plus and Braava Jet m6 Bundle Plus: 20% OFF

This combination lets you automate all of your floor-cleaning needs. The Roomba robot vacuum has three-stage deep-cleaning power with advanced sensors to get into corners and along the edges of your carpets. The Braava robot mop features a precision spray that can remove even problematic sticky messes and kitchen grease.   

Available at Amazon

Superun Walking Pad: 47% OFF

Want to go for a walk without leaving your home? The Superun Walking Pad is the answer. This under-desk treadmill lets you stroll while working to offer a new way to multitask: get your steps in while getting paid. The speed can range from 0.6 mph to 3.8 mph, and it has a 300-pound weight capacity.

Available at Amazon

Check out Prime Day deals here and be sure to bookmark this page to shop smart and stay in the loop on the best genius gadget discounts of the Prime Day sale. 

Visit our Prime Day sale hub for more deals.

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Allen Foster writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

© 2023 BestReviews. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC

Acne scar treatments

Acne is a common skin affliction in people of all ages, particularly teenagers. Even after a bout of acne has cleared up, it can leave scars behind on the skin.

While acne scarring might hurt your self-confidence, most acne scars fade on their own over time. In more severe cases, acne scars can be permanent. However, there are several over-the-counter and prescribed treatments you can try to reduce the appearance of acne scars.

Types of acne scars

Acne occurs when the skin’s pores clog with dead skin cells, bacteria and oil. The clogging results in inflammation around the skin’s hair follicles, leading to raised whiteheads or blackheads on the skin.

The strain of this inflammation on the cells around the pores can lead to scarring as the skin tries to heal from the lesions. Scarring can appear anywhere that acne occurs on the body which is usually the face, chest and upper back.

There are three main types of acne scars:

• Skin discoloration
• Indentations
• Raised tissue

How long does it take for acne scars to fade?

The size and severity of the scar dictate how quickly it fades or whether it will be permanent. Discoloration, for example, often fades on its own over time. Other scarring, such as indentation, is more likely to be permanent and requires intervention to reduce its appearance.

Acne scars that fade on their own usually disappear within a few months. Others can fade slowly with medical or cosmetic intervention over months or years.

How to reduce the appearance of acne scars

The best method for removing acne scars depends on the:

• Color and type of your skin
• The severity of the acne scars
• Type of acne scars
• Placement of acne scars

Some methods are not suitable for sensitive skin, for example. Other methods are suitable for facial acne scars but may not be ideal for scars on the chest or back.

It’s best to check with a licensed dermatologist before trying new treatments for acne scars. If you’re applying a new over-the-counter method, conduct a small patch test on your skin first to check for irritation or other negative side effects.

Skin care products

You’ll find plenty of acne scar serums on the market, but their effectiveness depends on their ingredients. Look out for skin care products that contain:

• Alpha hydroxy acids
• Lactic acid
• Retinol
• Salicylic acid

Most of these ingredients work by removing dead skin cells, reducing discoloration and exfoliating the skin to reduce the appearance of acne scars. You’ll find them in skin care products such as acne cleansers, exfoliating serum, moisturizing creams and at-home peels.

Skin fillers

Plumping the skin around indentation scars reduces the severity of the depression on the skin’s surface, thereby minimizing their appearance.

Cosmetic filler treatments that inject collagen or fat into the skin’s surface can achieve this effect and make the indentations less noticeable. However, this result isn’t permanent, so it requires regular injections.

Microneedling

Microneedling is a cosmetic treatment that stimulates collagen production in the skin. The aesthetician numbs the area before rolling a device with small needles over the scarred skin. The idea is that the needles stimulate collagen which plumps the skin and reduces the appearance of acne scars.

Microneedling is an accessible cosmetic treatment and there is little to no risk of side effects such as skin pigmentation. It’s suitable for all skin types and colors, but you will need regular treatments over several months to see results.

Corticosteroid injections

Medical professionals sometimes prescribe steroid injections to treat acne scars. This method is typically used for raised scars as it softens the hard tissue and flattens the scar. You’ll typically need a series of injections over a few months to complete this treatment.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is one of the most effective methods for removing scars but it’s also one of the harshest treatment options. It is not suitable for highly sensitive skin and can result in scarring and pigmentation.

The treatment is usually performed by a doctor or dermatologist. Using a special mechanical device, the doctor brushes the top layer of skin off. This method can remove acne scars completely, particularly raised scars or shallow depressions.

If you have mild scarring, the same effect is achievable with an at-home microdermabrasion kit. This milder form of treatment is also more suitable for sensitive skin.

Laser treatment

Lasers are used for lots of cosmetic treatments including hair removal and the treatment of skin pigmentation. When it comes to removing acne scars, the light from the laser pulses over the skin, removing skin cells and encouraging collagen production. The result is a smoother skin surface and reduced discoloration from acne scars.

One benefit of laser treatment is that, unlike other resurfacing treatments such as chemical peels, the laser targets only the acne scars rather than the full face. It also heals much faster than other resurfacing methods.

However, laser treatment is typically unsuitable for darker skin tones because it can result in pigmented patches.

Chemical peels

Chemical peels work in a similar way to dermabrasions. The object is to remove the top layer of skin to reduce the appearance of indentation scars. However, instead of a device, chemical peels use a strong acid on the skin.

There are several options for chemical peels. You can use mild or moderate chemical peels and repeat the treatments if needed. Deep chemical peels can only be applied once, but they provide the most noticeable results.

Chemical peels are effective but they can result in pigmentation if used on darker skin tones.

Surgical removal

In extreme cases, your doctor may recommend a minor surgical procedure to remove large scars. According to the Mayo Clinic, the procedure is known as punch excision. It involves cutting raised scars away from the skin and putting stitches in their place. Sometimes, a skin graft is used to cover the wound and provide a smoother texture once the skin heals after the surgery.

What you need to remove acne scars

Differin Gel Acne Scar Spot Treatment

This spot treatment gel is designed for one application per day after facial cleansing. It contains ingredients such as bakuchiol and peptides to speed up the cell renewal process and create a firmer, more even skin texture.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and 

Cerave Resurfacing Retinol Serum

This Cerave serum is applied all over the face before moisturizing. The retinol in the serum reduces the pigmentation of acne scars and minimizes pores, resulting in smoother skin with continued use.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and

From a trusted name in skin care, this treatment diminishes scars in just eight weeks. It works well on old scars, too.

Where to buy: Sold by

Stop acne scars before they start with these star-shaped patches flecked with tea tree oil. Not only do they look great, but they also help to eliminate the blemish while protecting the skin as it heals.

Where to buy: Sold by

Want to shop the best products at the best prices? Check out Daily Deals from BestReviews.

Sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter for useful advice on new products and noteworthy deals.

Lauren Farrell writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

© 2023 BestReviews. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC

Acne scar treatments

Acne is a common skin affliction in people of all ages, particularly teenagers. Even after a bout of acne has cleared up, it can leave scars behind on the skin.

While acne scarring might hurt your self-confidence, most acne scars fade on their own over time. In more severe cases, acne scars can be permanent. However, there are several over-the-counter and prescribed treatments you can try to reduce the appearance of acne scars.

Types of acne scars

Acne occurs when the skin’s pores clog with dead skin cells, bacteria and oil. The clogging results in inflammation around the skin’s hair follicles, leading to raised whiteheads or blackheads on the skin.

The strain of this inflammation on the cells around the pores can lead to scarring as the skin tries to heal from the lesions. Scarring can appear anywhere that acne occurs on the body which is usually the face, chest and upper back.

There are three main types of acne scars:

• Skin discoloration
• Indentations
• Raised tissue

How long does it take for acne scars to fade?

The size and severity of the scar dictate how quickly it fades or whether it will be permanent. Discoloration, for example, often fades on its own over time. Other scarring, such as indentation, is more likely to be permanent and requires intervention to reduce its appearance.

Acne scars that fade on their own usually disappear within a few months. Others can fade slowly with medical or cosmetic intervention over months or years.

How to reduce the appearance of acne scars

The best method for removing acne scars depends on the:

• Color and type of your skin
• The severity of the acne scars
• Type of acne scars
• Placement of acne scars

Some methods are not suitable for sensitive skin, for example. Other methods are suitable for facial acne scars but may not be ideal for scars on the chest or back.

It’s best to check with a licensed dermatologist before trying new treatments for acne scars. If you’re applying a new over-the-counter method, conduct a small patch test on your skin first to check for irritation or other negative side effects.

Skin care products

You’ll find plenty of acne scar serums on the market, but their effectiveness depends on their ingredients. Look out for skin care products that contain:

• Alpha hydroxy acids
• Lactic acid
• Retinol
• Salicylic acid

Most of these ingredients work by removing dead skin cells, reducing discoloration and exfoliating the skin to reduce the appearance of acne scars. You’ll find them in skin care products such as acne cleansers, exfoliating serum, moisturizing creams and at-home peels.

Skin fillers

Plumping the skin around indentation scars reduces the severity of the depression on the skin’s surface, thereby minimizing their appearance.

Cosmetic filler treatments that inject collagen or fat into the skin’s surface can achieve this effect and make the indentations less noticeable. However, this result isn’t permanent, so it requires regular injections.

Microneedling

Microneedling is a cosmetic treatment that stimulates collagen production in the skin. The aesthetician numbs the area before rolling a device with small needles over the scarred skin. The idea is that the needles stimulate collagen which plumps the skin and reduces the appearance of acne scars.

Microneedling is an accessible cosmetic treatment and there is little to no risk of side effects such as skin pigmentation. It’s suitable for all skin types and colors, but you will need regular treatments over several months to see results.

Corticosteroid injections

Medical professionals sometimes prescribe steroid injections to treat acne scars. This method is typically used for raised scars as it softens the hard tissue and flattens the scar. You’ll typically need a series of injections over a few months to complete this treatment.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is one of the most effective methods for removing scars but it’s also one of the harshest treatment options. It is not suitable for highly sensitive skin and can result in scarring and pigmentation.

The treatment is usually performed by a doctor or dermatologist. Using a special mechanical device, the doctor brushes the top layer of skin off. This method can remove acne scars completely, particularly raised scars or shallow depressions.

If you have mild scarring, the same effect is achievable with an at-home microdermabrasion kit. This milder form of treatment is also more suitable for sensitive skin.

Laser treatment

Lasers are used for lots of cosmetic treatments including hair removal and the treatment of skin pigmentation. When it comes to removing acne scars, the light from the laser pulses over the skin, removing skin cells and encouraging collagen production. The result is a smoother skin surface and reduced discoloration from acne scars.

One benefit of laser treatment is that, unlike other resurfacing treatments such as chemical peels, the laser targets only the acne scars rather than the full face. It also heals much faster than other resurfacing methods.

However, laser treatment is typically unsuitable for darker skin tones because it can result in pigmented patches.

Chemical peels

Chemical peels work in a similar way to dermabrasions. The object is to remove the top layer of skin to reduce the appearance of indentation scars. However, instead of a device, chemical peels use a strong acid on the skin.

There are several options for chemical peels. You can use mild or moderate chemical peels and repeat the treatments if needed. Deep chemical peels can only be applied once, but they provide the most noticeable results.

Chemical peels are effective but they can result in pigmentation if used on darker skin tones.

Surgical removal

In extreme cases, your doctor may recommend a minor surgical procedure to remove large scars. According to the Mayo Clinic, the procedure is known as punch excision. It involves cutting raised scars away from the skin and putting stitches in their place. Sometimes, a skin graft is used to cover the wound and provide a smoother texture once the skin heals after the surgery.

What you need to remove acne scars

Differin Gel Acne Scar Spot Treatment

This spot treatment gel is designed for one application per day after facial cleansing. It contains ingredients such as bakuchiol and peptides to speed up the cell renewal process and create a firmer, more even skin texture.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and 

Cerave Resurfacing Retinol Serum

This Cerave serum is applied all over the face before moisturizing. The retinol in the serum reduces the pigmentation of acne scars and minimizes pores, resulting in smoother skin with continued use.

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and

From a trusted name in skin care, this treatment diminishes scars in just eight weeks. It works well on old scars, too.

Where to buy: Sold by

Stop acne scars before they start with these star-shaped patches flecked with tea tree oil. Not only do they look great, but they also help to eliminate the blemish while protecting the skin as it heals.

Where to buy: Sold by

Want to shop the best products at the best prices? Check out Daily Deals from BestReviews.

Sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter for useful advice on new products and noteworthy deals.

Lauren Farrell writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

© 2023 BestReviews. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC

Hampton University

My wife and I recently had an educational, and at times emotionally moving, visit to Hampton University. HU is nationally ranked among America’s historically Black colleges and universities and a culturally significant Hampton Roads gem.

Start at the beautiful Emancipation Oak, near HU’s entrance. Members of the Virginia Peninsula’s Black community gathered under the great tree’s now 100-foot diameter limbs in 1863 to hear the first Southern reading of President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. Close your eyes and imagine the joy, tears and first feelings of freedom.

Next stop, the Hampton University Museum, founded in 1868 and billed as the nation’s oldest African American museum. Note the neoclassical and Jeffersonian architectural elements of the 1903 building. Inside there are more than 9,000 objects representing African, African American and Native American cultures, among others. Parking and museum admission are free.

Legacy Park is a short walk across a lawn. It features life-size statues of U.S. presidents, civil rights icons and people who impacted HU. Bronze likenesses of Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Frederick Douglas, former President George H.W. Bush and former President Barack Obama gaze across nearby Hampton harbor from park benches. Pose for a selfie with a great American. Linger in the park long enough to hear the hour tolled on the nearby 150-foot tall Hampton University Memorial Church bell tower. It features clock faces on all four sides and a dozen bells, one weighing 2,000 pounds.

Whether a Hampton Roads newcomer or native, you’ll leave the campus with both your head and your heart touched by the experience.

Jay Moore, Portsmouth

Thank you

I would like to commend Barbara Carraway for the wonderful service she has provided to Chesapeake for more than 30 years as city treasurer.

It was approximately 25 years ago that I attended a flower arranging class that Carraway was also taking. The residents of Chesapeake were able to view the beautiful display by her at City Hall. She made arrangements to fit and change with the seasons and holidays.

For me, personally, the idea of paying out money is not actually enjoyable, but while standing in line waiting, it was very nice to view all of the unique and beautiful flower arrangements. This act was accomplished on her own time and with her own money. I and many other Chesapeake residents will miss her. Lots of well wishes.

Connie Hanson, Chesapeake

Border stunt

Re “Guard deployment to Texas smacks of political opportunism” (Our Views, July 8): I applaud the editorial regarding the futility of deploying the Virginia National Guard to try to stem the increased flow of fentanyl across the border. This endeavor is unfortunately a wasted effort given the current conditions of unrestrained movement across the border of these drugs and ineffective federal jurisdiction at curtailing it.

Although a noble gesture, you are correct that it sadly doesn’t amount to much more than a “photo op.” I believe you also have an obligation to propose or point out a more effective solution to the problem. If you don’t think the “open border policies” of the current administration are the cause, please voice your opinion on what is and how it can be reduced. If you don’t believe that the drug flow is a problem, please state that when referencing the billions of dollars wasted.

If you agree that the drugs coming across the southern border are a serious threat, then just sitting back and criticizing the GOP’s efforts without pointing to a more effective solution is rather sophomoric.

Ernest Hartman, Williamsburg

Chris Hicks prevailed on a steamy Saturday night at Langley Speedway in Hampton as the Southern Ground Pounders raced vintage cars in a feature.

Steven Otey was second in the field of 13, followed by Modified Division leader Matt Carter, Rodney Dye and Mack Tatum.

Langley was the seventh track on this year’s schedule for a series conducted at various venues in Virginia and North Carolina. The series is scheduled to close its season Oct. 28 during Langley’s Shawn Balluzzo Memorial program.

In other divisions Saturday:

Virginia Racers: Jacob Derrick and points leader Cody Bryant gained twin 35-lap victories.

In the opener, Derrick prevailed in less than 14 1/2 minutes, beating Ayden Millette by 1.278 seconds and third-place Matt Morgan by 1.819.

Fourteen drivers began, including fourth-place Bryant and all but two finished on the lead lap.

In the encore, Bryant replied to edge Millette by 304-thousandths of a second and third-place Garret Byrd by 465-thousandths. Derrick, who began the evening four points behind Bryant in essentially a two-driver standings competition, faded to 11th in the second race.

Modified: Matt Carter showed why he has been one of Langley’s most dominant drivers in any division this year, registering his eighth victory in 10 attempts.

Carter, the runaway standings leader, won a 50-lap race by 707-hundredths of a second over Chase Burrows. Ryley Music was third in the field of 14, 2.011 seconds behind Carter in a race that took more than 26 1/2 minutes.

Super Truck: Points leader Hunter Waltrip took less than 12 minutes to capture a 25-lap victory, outrunning Chris Bechtel by 703-thousandths of a second. It was Waltrip’s fourth victory in the division’s seven races.

Donald Brown earned third, 2.108 seconds off the lead, in a field of 12.

Pro Six: Atley Wiese cruised to a 25-lap triumph, beating Travis Wall by 1.431 seconds. Wall, who had won the division’s previous four races, began the night four points ahead of Wiese for the season.

Trey New placed third, 4.504 seconds off the lead. Eight drivers, a season-high for the group, competed for about 18 1/2 minutes.

Enduro: Charlie Bryant earned a 30-lap victory among the night’s largest grid, 18 drivers. Stephen Flinn was second and Alex Floroff third.

Cody Bryant, Charlie’s son, was eighth in his third top-eight finish of the program.

Bandolero: Brian Rundstrom Jr. extended his points lead in a close three-way finish to a 15-lap race that included 11 drivers.

Rundstrom edged Addison Schumann by 226-thousandths of a second and third-place Tristan Burnelli by 0.613 of a second in an event that lasted just less than 16 minutes. That gave Rundstrom five victories in the division’s six races of 2023.

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Saturday’s top finishers from Hampton (car numbers in parentheses):

Southern Ground Pounders: (13 starters); 1. (90) Chris Hicks; 2. (33) Steven Otey; 3. (7) Matt Carter; 4. (9) Rodney Dye; 5. (2) Mack Tatum.

Modified 50: (14 starters); 1. (78) Matt Carter; 2. (0) Chase Burrows; 3. (47) Ryley Music; 4. (11) Chris Roberts; 5. (24) Randy Sample.

Pro Six 25: (8 starters); 1. (78) Atley Wiese; 2. (44) Travis Wall; 3. (55) Trey New; 4. (67) Chris Bechtel; 5. (48) Nick Lamarche.

Super Truck 25: (13 starters): 1. (33) Hunter Waltrip; 2. (8) Chris Roberts; 3. (05) Donald Brown; 4. (19) Bill Wallace; 5. (57) Chris Bechtel.

Virginia Racers 35 #1: (14 starters); 1. (88) Jacob Derrick; 2. (9) Ayden Millette; 3. (98) Matt Morgan; 4. (08) Cody Bryant; 5. (26) Donovan Edwards.

Virginia Racers 35 #2: (14 starters); 1. (08) Cody Bryant; 2. (9) Ayden Millette; 3. (8) Garret Byrd; 4. (38) Andrew Condrey; 5. (98) Matt Morgan.

Enduro 30: (18 starters); 1. (88) Charlie Bryant; 2. (05) Stephen Flinn; 3. (17) Alex Floroff; 4. (3) Mikey Chinn; 5. (25) Ryan Vinson.

Bandolero 15: (11 starters); 1. (88) Brian Rundstrom Jr.; 2. (21a) Addison Schumann; 3. (18) Tristan Burnelli; 4. (02) Nevaeh Edwards; 5. (99) Ryleigh Rondeau.

By the numbers, Norfolk lags behind peer cities in public park land acreage and per capita investment. In the latest rankings of 100 largest U.S. cities by Trust for Public Lands, Norfolk landed at 52 behind Arlington (5), Richmond (39) and Virginia Beach (49). Rankings are based on five park categories: equity, access, investment, amenities and acreage.

Furthermore, the Norfolk Department of Parks and Recreation Master Plan Assessment 2022 benchmark analysis revealed trail miles, program participation, operating expense/revenue per capita, indoor recreation and marketing fell below national averages.

The assessment included a citizen survey which found 1) walking/biking trails, 2) beaches, 3) fitness/exercise facilities, 4) indoor pools/aquatics facilities, and 5) neighborhood parks are the highest priority for parks and recreation investment.

With these findings in hand, the Mermaid City appears poised to boost rankings and meet citizen desires. Three recently completed or in-progress initiatives will significantly contribute to this effort.

The 20-acre Resilience Park on the Elizabeth River, connecting the Grandy Village and Chesterfield Heights neighborhoods, includes a restored tidal creek and wetlands, a flood berm and other environmental features as well as walking trails and aquatic river recreation. Capital funding was provided under a $112 million U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) grant.

The St. Paul’s Blue/Greenway, just east of downtown, transforms approximately 26 acres of obsolete/flood prone public housing into an aesthetic open space designed to treat and store stormwater runoff and mitigate tidal flooding as well as support recreational activities. Capital funding was provided by a $30 million HUD grant.

Approximately 15 acres of the former Lamberts Point Golf Course, overlooking the Elizabeth River and adjacent to Old Dominion University, remains in city control and presents a once-in-a-lifetime community opportunity to enhance and preserve one of the last remaining waterfront parcels of this size in Norfolk.

Advocacy by a grassroots coalition, the Lamberts Point City Park Steering Committee, has secured more than 3,000 petition signatures to turn the site into a new community park. As the Steering Committee points out, infrastructure remnants from the golf course, including a clubhouse, parking, paved walkways and landscaping, could be repurposed in a new park.

These existing improvements provide critical integration with and extension of Elizabeth River Trail along spectacular coastline vistas and unmatched views of maritime commerce. What a backdrop this could create for an intimate concert amphitheater, raised-bed gardening and recreational pursuits.

As a former landfill, the parcel’s sloping riverbanks provide native plant habitat, nooks in which fish rest and spawn, and migratory pathways for birds. They also buffer storms, slow down and filter stormwater, and reduce erosion. In upland sections, adding green infrastructure such as rain gardens, bioswales and tree canopies can capture rainwater where it falls, reducing runoff and recharging groundwater acquirers. These features also cool temperatures and improve air quality.

Indeed, a park at Lamberts Point could serve to showcase the neighboring Hampton Roads Sanitation District SWIFT project as well as the city of Norfolk/U.S. Corps of Engineers $2.6 billion Coastal Risk Management Project. SWIFT technology upgrades wastewater to drinking water standards and reinjects into the thirsty Potomac Aquifer, the primary groundwater source for Eastern Virginia.

A 2023 Urban Land Institute study, “Parks that Protect: Leveraging Waterfronts for Resilient Communities,” cites the transformation of an 86-acre municipal landfill in Camden, New Jersey, into Cramer Hill Waterfront Park as a national model of reclaiming riverfront for recreation, education and enjoyment of nature.

By the numbers and anyway you add it up, implementation of these initiatives, and studying Camden’s success, will advance Norfolk’s regional and national standing as a city of high-quality parks and a coastal resilience leader.

A public forum on “Future of Lamberts Point Golf Course” will be held 6-8 p.m. on July 19 at the Lamberts Point Golf Course, 4301 Powhatan Ave.

Brian N. Friedman, Mary Beth Horton and Liz Paiste are members of the Lamberts Point City Park Steering Committee in Norfolk.

What is the purpose of a university?

In Virginia, which is home to 68 public and private colleges and universities and two-year institutions, one thing most educators agree on is that the Commonwealth has the best “system” of higher education in the country. Any Virginian has a full menu of affordable options available to them without leaving the state. Few other states can claim this.

Ignore the political chatter.  The key to helping every school — and student — to succeed is to provide adequate public-private funding. Funding bodies and donors can collaborate to find the best way for each institution to serve their specific region and student body. To do this, it helps to reconsider the purpose of higher education, which has transformed greatly over the past century.

In 1920, an estimated 16.4% of Americans graduated high school, with just 4% completing at least four years of college. But by 2020, those rates had risen to 91% and 37%, respectively. The formerly optional pursuit of higher learning has now grown into a default expectation for many families, and with this shift in perspective has come a shift in purpose for educational institutions.

In addition to academics, colleges and universities provide formative opportunities for students to learn valuable social, emotional and communal lessons about who they are and where they belong in the world. To do all of this well, we in education must remain active learners ourselves in order to be sure we understand the needs of our students and communities so that we may best serve and support them.

So how can we foster a culture of community learning throughout our organizations? One way is to develop strategic partnerships with fellow community groups, regional employers and local nonprofits, which can inspire a meaningful exchange of information and resources among collaborators. Another way is for institutional administrators to become active community members, including joining the boards of regional organizations or even volunteering with community outreach programs. The goal is to listen and understand our communities at the individual level so that we can make administrative and academic decisions based not on the needs of some imaginary and idealized student persona, but rather on the needs of the very real people we serve.

At Virginia Wesleyan University, our role in Virginia’s education landscape has evolved greatly over the past decade simply because of who we serve, and how. In the 2022-23 academic year, we enrolled approximately 4,000 learners, including 1,500 traditional learners on our main campus and 2,500 in VWU Global Campus, which includes evening and weekend, online, early enrollment, and continuing education programs and a collaborative campus in Japan.

When viewed all together, it is clear that VWU’s purpose is to provide lifelong educational experiences for students of all ages across multiple disciplines, and even multiple time zones. While this may look and feel differently from higher education a century ago, I believe that the purpose of higher education is closer to its core mission than ever before: to promote the development of a well-rounded individual. Thanks to emerging technologies and the constantly changing job market, individuals look to higher education for continuous learning beyond the ages of 18-24. Because of this, higher education is no longer just for the young, but for everyone.

Arizona State University President Michael Crow uses a moniker that is popular among our partners in the New American Colleges and Universities: We measure ourselves not by whom we exclude, but by whom we include and how they succeed. While what we think of as success may also change over time, as the nature of work and the methods of acquiring knowledge will no doubt also look very different a century from now, what won’t change is the need for higher education to remain focused on preparing learners, thinkers, and doers to solve the problems of tomorrow.

Scott D. Miller, Ph.D., is president of Virginia Wesleyan University in Virginia Beach.

While the nation grapples with consumer costs, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) seeks to add to that strain. Through its recently proposed tailpipe emissions rules, which stand alongside stringent electric vehicle (EV) mandates across the country, auto dealers will be required to have an inventory built up of more than one-third EVs.

These proposed rules may seem like a step forward in the fight against climate change. However, they overlook the unique challenges faced by rural communities such as ours. A mandate for passenger vehicles to go electric, such as 2021’s Clean Cars law, is problematic enough, but the EPA’s extension of this requirement to heavy-duty vehicles, such as big rigs and farm equipment, is another animal entirely.

Transportation is the lifeblood of our industries. Every day, trucks and tractor-trailers are used for hauling, processing and delivering forest products, as well as the daily operations of our farms. The proposed EV mandates do not consider the practicality of electric big rigs and farm equipment, nor the infrastructure required to support them.

As a lifelong resident of Waverly, I am a witness to the relentless effort and commitment required to maintain our agricultural and forestry industries, which are integral to the economy of the commonwealth. However, these recent proposals to boost EV adoption threaten to disrupt the delicate balance of our industries and way of life.

Our region, like many rural areas, suffers from a lack of EV charging stations. According to a map from the U.S. Department of Energy, the nearest public charging stations from Waverly, in any direction, are at least 20-40 miles away. The infrastructure required to support a fleet of electric vehicles simply does not exist here, and it costs an average of $1,200 to $2,500 to install chargers on your own property.

In addition to the costs of new vehicles and charging infrastructure, we would also face a shortage of professionals able to service these vehicles.

Imagine the challenges posed by a breakdown during a haul. With our current diesel-powered vehicles, a local mechanic can usually get us back on the road quickly. But with an electric vehicle, we could be stranded hours from the nearest service center, with a load of perishable goods, or even livestock, in the back.

Lawmakers should keep in mind that agriculture and forestry, combined, are Virginia’s number one industry, and any policy changes that could potentially disrupt them should not be made lightly.

While we all agree on the importance of reducing emissions and combating climate change, the proposed EV mandates won’t work unless they work for all of us. These policies suffer from a huge blind spot, as they don’t consider the unique challenges faced by a large part of our state.

We need a more balanced approach, one that considers the needs and limitations of all sectors and regions. We need to invest in renewable energy and cleaner fuels for our existing vehicles and improve the efficiency of our current operations. We need to ensure that any transition to electric vehicles is gradual, affordable, and supported by the necessary infrastructure. An abrupt change caused by the implementation of the proposed mandates would create chaos and confusion for our farmers and consumers who have relied heavily on the utility of internal combustion engine vehicles.

As vice chair of the Sussex Board of Supervisors, I am committed to advocating for the needs of our community. Our policymakers should reconsider these mandates and work with their constituents who would be directly impacted to find practical, sustainable solutions that support our state’s industries and lifestyles.

We are not against progress, but progress should not come at the expense of our livelihoods.

Susan Seward is the vice chair of the Sussex County Board of Supervisors.

Andrés Chaparro hit a two-run homer to cap a five-run second inning and the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders tagged former Grassfield High star Garrett Stallings for six runs in a 10-2 victory over the Tides before 9,298 fans Saturday night at Harbor Park.

Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (42-44, 8-4 in second half) evened the three-game series at a game apiece.

Stallings pitched well in his first two starts for Norfolk (56-31, 8-5), allowing a combined three runs in 12 innings with 15 strikeouts and three walks. But the RailRiders got to him early in Saturday’s game, and he lasted only two innings.

Ben Rortvedt hit an RBI single to put the New York Yankees’ Triple-A affiliate on top in the first inning.

Stallings allowed the first three batters to reach in the second inning. Estevan Florial’s RBI double made it 2-0 and Everson Pereira’s two-run double made it 4-0. Chaparro’s two-run shot, his 17th homer of the season, increased the lead to 6-0.

Meanwhile, RailRiders starter Clayton Beeter blanked the Tides on two hits in 4.1 innings. He struck out six and walked one.

Scranton/Wilkes-Barre added two more runs in the third off new Tides pitcher Chayce McDermott — who earned a promotion from Double-A on Friday — and another in the fifth to make it 9-0 before Norfolk finally got on the board. Joey Ortiz hit an RBI single to center in the bottom of the fifth to score Connor Norby, who walked.

Ortiz has reached base safely in 28 of his past 30 games.

The Tides scored their other run in the seventh on Heston Kjerstad’s RBI groundout. Kjerstad was the only Norfolk player to have more than one hit, going 2 for 5. He extended his hitting streak to six games.

Every Scranton/Wilkes-Barre player had at least one hit, and the team finished with 12.

The two teams will wrap up their series at 4:05 p.m. Sunday with a Bark in the Park promotion.