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File a Trademark for $399 + $250 Government Filing Fee

Trademark Attorney Working With Clients in Virginia Beach, VA

If you're an entrepreneur, you know that protecting your intellectual property should be high on your list when it comes to safeguarding your company. However, as a successful business owner, you also know the steps and costs of filing a trademark in the U.S. can be expensive and arduous.

This conundrum can be even more overwhelming for new business owners who want to do everything possible to minimize the price of securing trademarks. They try to handle complicated tasks like trademark registration on their own, which can be a big mistake - especially when juggling the day-to-day tasks of running a business. You may be thinking, "But what about those set-it-and-forget-it services you can find online? All you have to do is plug in your info, and you're done." Using pre-made templates for trademark filing can be tempting, but doing so can leave you with inadequate protection and hurt you in the long run.

So, what is the easiest, most cost-effective route to consider that also minimizes legal risk? The truth is, before you spend money on an online filing service, it's best to consult with a trademark attorney working with clients in Virginia Beach, VA.

At Sausser Summers, PC, our experienced trademark attorneys can help you understand the trademark process step by step. We can even help with U.S. trademark filing, U.S. trademark responses, and U.S. trademark renewals at a price you can actually afford. That way, you can make an informed decision regarding your business without having to break the bank.

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Sausser Summers, PC: Simplifying the U.S. Trademark Process

Hiring an attorney can be a daunting task, but at Sausser Summers, PC, our goal is to make the process as simple and seamless as possible for you. That's why we offer a straightforward checkout service. First, you choose your flat fee trademark service and fill out a short questionnaire. Then, we will contact you within 24 hours to discuss the details of our service. From there, one of our experienced trademark attorneys will get to work on your behalf.

Using a trademark attorney for filing in Virginia Beach, VA, can significantly increase your chances of a successful registration. The U.S. government recommends hiring a trademark attorney to help with your application, and our team of trademark lawyers is dedicated to meeting your needs. In fact, we help ensure your application is filed correctly the first time so you can get on with your life and avoid legal risks.

At Sausser Summers, PC, we work closely with our clients to understand their needs and provide them with sound professional advice. We never offer incomplete services, such as simply filing for registration, because that would leave you open to legal risks. You can rely on us to handle your intellectual property matters, and our flat fee services can help protect your business in a simple, straightforward, and affordable way. It's really that simple.

In terms of filing a U.S. trademark, we provide an easy three-step process to protect your intellectual property:

1. You provide your trademark info to our team via an online form.

2. Our team performs a comprehensive trademark search. This search ensures that no other marks will prevent you from registering your trademark in the U.S. Once performed, we'll send you a legal opinion letter that details our findings.

3. Sausser Summers, PC, files your U.S. trademark application. We are then listed as your Attorney of Record on file. From there, we'll provide ongoing updates regarding the status of your trademark as it works through the registration process.

The bottom line? At Sausser Summers, PC, we give both new and seasoned business owners an easy, efficient, cost-effective way to protect the one asset that sets them apart from others: their name.

Online Trademark Attorney Virginia Beach, VA
The bottom line?

At Sausser Summers, PC, we give both new and seasoned business owners an easy, efficient, cost-effective way to protect the one asset that sets them apart from others: their name.

Do I Really Need a Trademark Attorney for Protecting My Business in Virginia Beach, VA?

It's not necessary to be a lawyer in order to apply for a trademark. Anyone can submit a trademark application to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). However, registering a trademark involves more than just filling out a form. It's essential to conduct thorough research, accurately identify and clearly explain your trademark to ensure it receives adequate protection. And even after securing a trademark, you've got to monitor it consistently to make sure it's free from infringement.

The big takeaway here is that it's always a good idea to work with a trademark attorney to protect the intellectual property that you've worked so hard to establish. According to the Wall Street Journal, applicants are approximately 50% more likely to secure their trademark than people who file applications on their own. If your trademark application is rejected by the USPTO, you will need to revise and refile it, incurring additional filing fees. To avoid delays and extra costs, it is best to have a trademark lawyer help you get it right the first time.

Additional Benefits of Using a Trademark Attorney

Great trademark attorneys (like those you'll find at Sausser Summers, PC) will help with every step of filing and enforcing your trademark. Some additional benefits include the following:

Check to see if your proposed trademark is registered by another entity.

Conduct research to see if another business is using the trademark for which you're applying.

Provide advice and guidance on the strength of your trademark.

Draft and submit your trademark applications and application revisions.

Advice and guidance regarding trademark maintenance and protection.

Monitor the market for unauthorized use of your trademark.

Trademark enforcement to protect you against infringement.

 Online Trademark Lawyer Virginia Beach, VA

Curious whether our trademark attorney services are right for you and your business? Contact Sausser Summer, PC, today. Let's talk about what you need, and how we can help.

What About Online Filing Services?

Online services, can provide you with basic assistance in filing your trademark. However, they will never be a legitimate substitute for an experienced trademark attorney helping clients in Virginia Beach, VA.

 Trademark Attorney Virginia Beach, VA

Although online filing services offer a step-by-step process, they take a one-size-fits-all approach to preparing legal documents. Even their advanced service only provides basic attorney assistance in completing your paperwork and helping with minor roadblocks. Online filing services' disclaimer highlights the many limitations of its services, including the fact that communications are not protected by attorney-client privilege. In addition, online filing services cannot provide advice, explanations, opinions, recommendations, or any kind of legal guidance on possible legal rights, remedies, defenses, options, selection of forms or strategies.

In other words, online filing services can offer you the necessary forms and point you in the right direction, but they cannot customize their services to your specific needs or help you with serious complications that may arise.

For the most comprehensive trademark service and protection, it's always wise to work with highly rated trademark lawyers, like you'll find at Sausser Summers, PC.

Understanding Trademarks Over Time

Trademarks in the U.S. can last indefinitely, but did you know that clients in Virginia Beach, VA can file a trademark online, only to lose protection in some circumstances? Trademarks differ from patents and copyrights in that they do not have an expiration date. However, to prevent the cancellation of a trademark, you must maintain it. To ensure that your trademark remains protected, you must actively use it in commerce and renew it with the USPTO every ten years.

The Lanham Act tells us that "use in commerce" is the legitimate use of a trademark in the ordinary course of trade. In other words, you cannot register a trademark solely to reserve the rights to it in the future. In most cases, a trademark must be used continuously in connection with the goods or services it is registered for.

 Trademark Law Firm Virginia Beach, VA

Steps to Renew Your Trademark

Trademarks are registered with the USPTO and generally need to be renewed every ten years. However, there is one crucial exception that you should be aware of. Within the first ten years of owning a trademark, you must file for renewal between the fifth and sixth year from the date of your initial registration.

During this renewal period, you are required to submit a Section 8 declaration, a specimen that shows how the mark is being used, and pay the required fee. You can also apply for Section 15 Incontestability status, which can strengthen your trademark rights. This application, although not mandatory, can make it harder for others to challenge your ownership of the mark.

After the first renewal, which falls between the fifth and sixth year of ownership, the next renewal filing is due between the ninth and tenth year, and then every tenth year thereafter. In the ninth year you will need to file a Section 8 declaration, attesting to your use of the mark or excusable nonuse. You've also got to file a Section 9 renewal application before the end of the tenth year to keep your registration active.

It is worth noting that the USPTO provides a six-month grace period if you fail to renew your mark within the required time frame, but it is best not to rely on it. If you don't file within the grace period time limits, the USPTO will cancel and expire your mark.

By hiring trademark attorneys helping clients in Virginia Beach, VA, you can avoid the pitfalls and mistakes that can arise and cause you to lose your rights to the mark that represents it.

Losing Your Trademark Rights Through Abandonment

In the event that you stop using your trademark and have no plans to resume using it in commerce, it may be considered abandoned by the USPTO. This could result in the loss of your protective rights to the mark. Typically, a trademark is assumed to be abandoned if it has not been used for three years. However, you may be able to refute this presumption by providing evidence that you intend to use the mark again in the future.

Losing Your Trademark Rights Through Inappropriate Licensing

In addition to trademark abandonment, you should also be wary of improper licensing. It's important to remember that once you allow someone else to use your trademark, you must keep an eye on how they use it. You should monitor the products or services that feature your trademark to ensure that they meet consumers' expectations in terms of quality. Failure to do so can lead to a "naked" trademark license and the loss of your protective trademark rights.

How to Avoid Having to Refile Your Trademark

If you're wondering how you can avoid refiling your trademark, the answer is simple: file it correctly the first time around. Filing a trademark isn't inherently difficult, but when doing so, it's very important that certain aspects are filled out accurately in your application. If any information is missing or incorrect, the trademark application may be considered "void ab initio" or void from the beginning, requiring you to file again.

To avoid this, make sure that the information you provide in the application is accurate and complete, including the ownership of the trademark. For instance, if a corporation has multiple shareholders, it should not file under the President's personal name. The rightful owner should be the one/entity that ultimately controls the trademark and the associated goods/services.

It is also important to ensure that the goods and/or services description is precise. For example, if you sell electronic products, you should not file for research and development services despite having a research and development department. The goods/services description should reflect the goods/services you offer to customers, not the departments within your business.

Additionally, providing accurate dates of first use when filing for a trademark is crucial. The USPTO requires two dates to be specified - the date of first use anywhere and the date of first use in interstate commerce. Contact our trademark law office today to learn more about having accurate dates on your filing paperwork.

 Trademark Lawyer Virginia Beach, VA
 Trademark Firm Virginia Beach, VA

What Makes an Online Trademark Attorney Great?

At Sausser Summers, PC, we often get questions about how to distinguish run-of-the-mill consultants and others from great trademark attorneys. After all - when you're looking for an attorney to file or prosecute your business trademark, you should know their qualifications. Here are three ways you can separate the proverbial wheat from the chaff when it comes to trademark attorneys.

It's crucial to seek legal advice from a licensed trademark lawyer rather than relying on advice from non-professionals like trademark consultants. The USPTO even recommends hiring an attorney to help with the trademark process. Although trademark consultants may provide advice on trademark availability or name marketability, they cannot file the trademark for you or offer legal advice. According to the Rules of Practicing in trademark cases, "Individuals who are not attorneys are not recognized to practice before the Office in trademark matters." This rule applies to individuals who assist trademark applicants.

When searching for a trademark attorney, it's important to find someone with a strong background in trademark law. Look for an attorney who specializes in this area and has significant experience handling trademark-related cases. Avoid lawyers who don't have expertise in this field, as they may not be able to provide the guidance and support you need.

Ensure your attorney provides updates throughout the trademark registration process to avoid missing deadlines, including responding to any Office actions within six months. Failure to do so can result in trademark abandonment. The USPTO will only correspond with the listed attorney of record, so make sure your attorney keeps you informed.

In summary:

  • Be sure you're using a licensed trademark attorney helping clients in Virginia Beach, VA.
  • It's best to work with a trademark lawyer who has years of experience filing trademarks.
  • Ensure that your trademark lawyer is willing to provide ongoing notifications relating to your trademark application process.
 Trademark Registration Lawyer Virginia Beach, VA

Trademark Attorneys Working Hard for You

Building your brand and gaining recognition for it is a significant achievement, and it's important to protect it. However, there are certain pitfalls and mistakes that can arise, causing you to lose your rights to the mark that represents it. By working with knowledgeable trademark attorneys, you can avoid these issues and file your trademark successfully.

With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Sausser Summers, PC, offers comprehensive guidance, strategic advice, and reliable representation for a variety of trademark matters. Our attorneys have years of real-world experience and, having registered countless trademarks with the USPTO, provide our clients with individualized representation when they need it most.

If you're looking for skilled, adept, and experienced counsel, look no further than our trademark law firm. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and learn how we can help you safeguard your brand.

Latest News in Virginia Beach, VA

Track Covid-19 in Virginia Beach, Va.

These Covid tracking pages are no longer being updated. Get the latest information from the Centers for Disease Control, or find archived data from The Times’s three year reporting effort here.Daily Covid-19 admissions in the Virginia Beach areaAbout the dataData is from the Centers for Disease Control and Prev...

These Covid tracking pages are no longer being updated. Get the latest information from the Centers for Disease Control, or find archived data from The Times’s three year reporting effort here.

Daily Covid-19 admissions in the Virginia Beach area

About the data

Data is from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hospitalization data is a daily average of Covid-19 patients in hospital service areas that intersect with Virginia Beach, an area which may be larger than Virginia Beach itself.

The number of daily hospital admissions shows how many patients were admitted to hospitals for Covid and is one of the most reliably reported indicators of Covid’s impact on a community.

Total population

Ages 65 and up

Total population

Ages 65 and up

An updated vaccine is recommended for adults and most children. Statewide, 22% of vaccinations did not specify a home county.

Nearby hospitals

Share of I.C.U. beds occupied

About this data Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Notes: The hospitals map shows the average I.C.U. occupancy at nearby hospitals in the most recent week with data reported. The data is self-reported to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services by individual hospitals. It excludes counts from hospitals operated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Indian Health Service. Numbers for hospitalized patients are based on inpatient beds and include I.C.U. beds. Hospitalized Covid-19 patients include both confirmed and suspected Covid-19 patients. The C.D.C. stopped reporting data on cases in May 2023.

How trends have changed in Virginia Beach

About this data Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Notes: Weekly county death data prior to Jan. 2021 was not reported by the C.D.C. and is sourced from reporting by The New York Times. Hospitalization data is a weekly average of Covid-19 patients in hospital service areas that intersect with Virginia Beach. Hospitalization numbers early in the pandemic are undercounts due to incomplete reporting by hospitals to the federal government.

Historical trends in Virginia Beach

The data in these charts has been archived and they are no longer being updated.

About this data Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The data in these charts has been archived and they are no longer being updated. Weekly county case data prior to Jan. 2021 was not reported by the C.D.C. and is sourced from reporting by The New York Times. The C.D.C. stopped reporting data on cases in May 2023. Test positivity data is based only on test results reported to the federal government and is a seven-day average.

By Jon Huang, Samuel Jacoby, Jasmine C. Lee, John-Michael Murphy, Charlie Smart and Albert Sun. Additional reporting by Sarah Cahalan, Lisa Waananen Jones, Amy Schoenfeld Walker and Josh Williams. See a full list of contributors to The Times’s Covid-19 data reporting here.

About the data

Data on this page is reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Population and demographic data is from the U.S. Census Bureau. Hospitalization data is reported by individual hospitals to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and it includes confirmed and suspected adult and pediatric patients. The C.D.C. does not provide complete vaccinations data for some counties and caps its vaccination rate figures at 95 percent.

The C.D.C. may make historical updates as more data is reported.

The C.D.C. stopped reporting data on Covid cases in May 2023.

Virginia Beach Housing Market Trends and Forecast 2024

Currently, the Virginia Beach housing market is tilted in favor of sellers. With homes selling quickly, often above the asking price, and a high level of competition among buyers, sellers have the advantage in negotiations. However, with inventory showing signs of growth and an increase in price drops, buyers may find opportunities to negotiate favorable terms in certain cases.Virginia Beach Housing Market Trends in 2024As of February 2024, the Virginia Beach housing market i...

Currently, the Virginia Beach housing market is tilted in favor of sellers. With homes selling quickly, often above the asking price, and a high level of competition among buyers, sellers have the advantage in negotiations. However, with inventory showing signs of growth and an increase in price drops, buyers may find opportunities to negotiate favorable terms in certain cases.

Virginia Beach Housing Market Trends in 2024

As of February 2024, the Virginia Beach housing market is showing positive growth trends compared to the previous year. According to Redfin, home prices have increased by 7.5%, with the median price now standing at $355,000. This uptick in prices reflects the steady demand for homes in the area. On average, homes are staying on the market for 28 days, slightly longer than the 23-day average from the previous year. Despite this slight increase, the market remains competitive, with homes selling relatively quickly.

In Virginia Beach, the housing market is highly competitive, with homes typically selling in 31 days. Many properties receive multiple offers, with some buyers even waiving contingencies to secure a purchase. The average selling price aligns closely with the list price, indicating a strong seller's market. Additionally, hot properties can sell for approximately 2% above the list price and go pending in as little as 13 days. These dynamics highlight the intense competition among buyers in the Virginia Beach housing market.

Despite the competitive nature of the market, there are signs of inventory growth. In February, 423 homes were sold, marking an increase from the 408 sold during the same period last year. However, there has also been an increase in the percentage of homes experiencing price drops, which rose by 6.0 percentage points compared to the previous year. This suggests that while inventory is increasing, some sellers may be adjusting their pricing strategies to attract buyers.

Looking ahead, the future market outlook for Virginia Beach appears positive but with some considerations. While home prices have seen steady growth, it will be important to monitor factors such as interest rates and economic conditions that may influence buyer behavior. Additionally, the influx of out-of-state buyers searching to move into Virginia Beach indicates continued interest in the area, which could further drive demand in the coming months.

Virginia Beach Housing Market Forecast for 2024 & 2025

According to Zillow, the average home value in the Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News area stands at $332,820, reflecting a robust 5.8% increase over the past year. Homes in this region typically go pending in approximately 32 days (Data through January 31, 2024). Let's delve into the key housing metrics to gain a deeper understanding of the market dynamics.

The +3.3% 1-year market forecast, as of January 31, 2024, indicates a positive trajectory for the Virginia Beach housing market, highlighting its resilience and potential for growth.

As of January 31, 2024, the Virginia Beach housing market boasts a 4,583 for sale inventory, showcasing a diverse range of options for potential homebuyers.

In January 2024, 1,457 new listings were added to the Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News housing market, providing fresh opportunities for those looking to enter the real estate market.

The 1.000 median sale to list ratio, as of December 31, 2023, suggests a balanced and competitive market environment, where properties are generally selling close to their list prices.

As of December 31, 2023, the median sale price in Virginia Beach stands at $306,333, reflecting the average price at which homes are sold in the area.

The current median list price, reported on January 31, 2024, is $336,125, providing valuable insights into the pricing trends and expectations in the market.

Examining the data from December 31, 2023, 36.9% of sales were recorded over the list price, showcasing a competitive market, while 32.7% of sales were under the list price, indicating opportunities for strategic negotiations.

With a median sale to list ratio of 1.000, the market currently appears balanced, offering opportunities for both buyers and sellers. The diverse inventory of 4,583 properties for sale provides options for buyers, while the competitive pricing dynamics create opportunities for sellers. It can be considered a neutral market, providing a fair ground for transactions.

The data suggests a steady increase in the average home value, standing at $332,820, reflecting a 5.8% year-over-year growth. As of now, there is no indication of home prices dropping. The market's resilience and the positive forecast further support the notion that home prices are maintaining an upward trajectory, offering stability to homeowners and potential appreciation for investors.

The current indicators, including the positive 1-year market forecast of +3.3%, do not suggest an imminent housing market crash in Virginia Beach. A balanced median sale to list ratio and sustained price growth indicate a stable real estate environment. However, it's crucial to monitor economic factors and external influences that could impact the market in the future.

Considering the market's balanced nature, diverse inventory, and positive forecast, now appears to be a favorable time for prospective buyers to enter the Virginia Beach housing market. The 32 days average time for homes to go pending suggests a competitive but efficient market, providing buyers with opportunities to make well-informed decisions. It's advisable for buyers to leverage the current market conditions and explore the available options.

As with any real estate decision, individuals should conduct thorough research, consider their financial situation, and consult with real estate professionals to make informed choices in alignment with their goals and preferences.

Is Virginia Beach a Good Place to Invest in Real Estate?

Virginia Beach is a popular destination for real estate investment due to its robust and competitive housing market. The city offers a diverse range of properties, including beachfront homes, condos, townhouses, and single-family homes. The average home value in the Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News area is $332,820, with an annual increase of 5%. Additionally, homes in Virginia Beach typically go to pending status in around 32 days.

Here are the top reasons to invest in the Virginia Beach MSA for the long term:

Sure, here's more information on each point:

Overall, these factors combine to make Virginia Beach a strong real estate investment market. With a strong economy, growing population, strong rental market, affordable housing, and high quality of life, it's easy to see why investors are drawn to the area. The Virginia Beach real estate market presents an ideal mix of high demand, constrained supply, and a large number of renters who won’t go buy a house if interest rates drop.

The diverse local economy allows you to cater to tourists knowing you can rent the property out to locals, as well. Buying an investment property is different from buying an owner-occupied home. Investment properties are designed to make money as rentals, which means you must look at them solely as an income-producing entity just like any other business.

Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned investor, you probably realize the most important factor that will determine your success as a real estate investor is your ability to find great real estate investments. We strive to set the standard for our industry and inspire others by raising the bar on providing exceptional real estate investment opportunities.

Let us know which real estate markets you consider best for real estate investing! If you need expert investment advice, you may fill up the form given here. One of our investment specialists will get in touch with you to discuss all facets of searching for, buying, and owning a turnkey investment property.

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What to expect from the 2024 solar eclipse in Virginia, according to NASA expert

13News Now Meteorologist Craig Moeller talked with NASA's Dr. Georgia de Nolfo about the April 8 solar eclipse. Here's what she had to say about the phenomenon.NORFOLK, Va. — Excitement continues to build ahead of the solar eclipse on Monday that many will be able to experience in the United States, including in Virginia — at least ...

13News Now Meteorologist Craig Moeller talked with NASA's Dr. Georgia de Nolfo about the April 8 solar eclipse. Here's what she had to say about the phenomenon.

NORFOLK, Va. — Excitement continues to build ahead of the solar eclipse on Monday that many will be able to experience in the United States, including in Virginia — at least partially.

Although a narrow band of cities will experience totality, many will still get to see a partial eclipse on April 8. NASA's 2024 eclipse map shows the totality path, or "umbra," spans in a northeasterly direction from southern Texas through parts of the Midwest and northeastern parts of the country.

Meanwhile, Virginia will be in the "penumbra," the larger but partial shadow from the eclipse. Virginia Beach will get 77.9% coverage while Norfolk will get 78.8%, according to the NASA eclipse map.

RELATED: 3 Virginia road trips to see the 2024 solar eclipse with the most coverage

Fortunately, the weather in Hampton Roads on Monday is forecasted to be mostly sunny — making for good eclipse-viewing conditions.

13News Now Meteorologist Craig Moeller talked with NASA's Dr. Georgia de Nolfo about the April 8 solar eclipse. Here's what she had to say about the phenomenon.

What is a solar eclipse?

"You basically have the moon coming in between the sun and the Earth, and it'll block out the majority of light coming from the sun. As a result, it will cast a shadow on the Earth," explained Dr. de Nolfo.

What will you see during the solar eclipse?

"In Virginia, you'll be able to see a partial eclipse, about 78% of the sun will be covered. So, what it will look like is a crescent-shaped in the sky. But if you're lucky enough to drive into the path of totality, then you'll actually be able to block out more of the light. And as a result, we'll be able to see the very faint atmosphere of the sun which scientists call the corona."

RELATED: Hampton Roads photographer plans trip to capture Monday's total solar eclipse

Do you need to wear glasses to view the eclipse?

Spectators are advised to wear solar eclipse glasses whether you're viewing a partial or total solar eclipse

"You do want to be safe whenever you look at the sun in eclipse conditions," said Dr. de Nolfo. "So, take advantage of these solar eclipse glasses or solar viewing glasses. There's international standards for those. You definitely want to wear those when you're viewing the [partial eclipse]."

"The only time that you can actually view without those glasses is during totality," she said, adding that "the rest of the time you really wanna wear those glasses."

RELATED: 2024 total solar eclipse: Making pinhole projectors

Dr. de Nolfo said you can also view the sun indirectly using what's called pinhole projectors.

"You can do that with a piece of paper, poke a little hole into it, and then project the sun onto a surface," she explained.

She recalled using a similar method for a past eclipse.

"I actually was in a partial eclipse, and I found that using the trees as pinhole projectors. Using those leaves was absolutely amazing because then you see the ground covered in crescent shapes, and it's just beautiful."

Will the April 8, 2024, solar eclipse be similar to the one in 2017?

This is the first time in seven years since the U.S. has seen a cosmic event on this scale. However, Monday's eclipse is expected to be larger and longer than the one experienced in 2017.

"Because we're going to be in conditions that were very different than in 2017, we're now entering into conditions where the sun is very active. And so the opportunities to see structure in that atmosphere, maybe even some eruptions occurring during that atmosphere, I mean that is thrilling to me just to be able to witness that," said Dr. de Nolfo.

RELATED: April's solar eclipse won't be the same as 2017. Here's why

What are some exciting elements expected during the eclipse?

"I mean, honestly every phase is really exciting," said Dr. de Nolfo. "So, as that moon is moving across the sun and you start to see those Baily's Beads, you're really just seeing the sunlight peeking through the different topology of the moon. I mean, it's just such a neat thought, right to think about how the sun is getting through in the valleys and is being blocked by the mountains."

She added: "Actually looking at those Baily's Beads and how they change from what we expect because we actually know the moon's topology really, really well from the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter. And so if we can see that there are some differences from what we expect, then that actually tells us about the shape of the sun. So there's some real physics to be gleaned from that. But then as you move into totality, then you actually see the very, very faint atmosphere of the sun."

Watch the full interview with Dr. de Nolfo in the video player above.

'It's impressive': Construction crews make progress on Oceanfront's Atlantic Park

Three tall cranes now sit above the 12-acre site. Passersby can clearly see what will become the 3,500-seat entertainment venue, parking garage and wave park.VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Construction crews are moving quickly to build Atlantic Park at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront.Just under a year ago, the project backed by Grammy Award winner and Virginia Beach native Pharrell Williams became official. Now, construction at the site is well underway.Three tall cranes sit above the 12-acre site. You can clearly see what wi...

Three tall cranes now sit above the 12-acre site. Passersby can clearly see what will become the 3,500-seat entertainment venue, parking garage and wave park.

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Construction crews are moving quickly to build Atlantic Park at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront.

Just under a year ago, the project backed by Grammy Award winner and Virginia Beach native Pharrell Williams became official. Now, construction at the site is well underway.

Three tall cranes sit above the 12-acre site. You can clearly see what will become a 3,500-seat entertainment venue, parking garage and wave park.

To Virginia Beach residents like Justin Patchan, the construction seems to be moving quickly.

"They’ve been building it extremely fast. I was really surprised. It looks huge and I think it’s gonna be a great area to kind of hang around you know go to bars and visit," he said. "It's impressive."

Credit: WVEC

Patchan, who has been surfing for five years, said he’ll likely avoid the crowds in the wave park but plans to visit the entertainment complex for other highlights.

"I think it might get a little packed in there, if it’s anything like the 1st Street Jetty, which is already packed enough, it might get a little crazy in there," he said after getting out of the water Wednesday.

Stakeholders in the project say the $335 million facility is on track to open in the spring of 2025 — a fact that has some lifelong Virginia Beach residents excited.

"It just seems like everything has accelerated finally. It just felt like it took a while to start and once they broke ground, it just feels like it’s going to be here sooner than we anticipate," said Tony Rivera.

Rivera, who runs Desert Rose Creatives, said the whole concept opens a lot of doors for not only visitors and residents but also business owners.

"As a local business owner, we specialize in working with a lot of creatives and the businesses that he's going to utilize in side of that place — restaurants, wave pools, other things are going to really highlight our local talent and a lot of us are slept on. There's a lot of talent here that needs exposure and Pharrell is doing some really cool stuff to highlight that."

Credit: WVEC

Jordan Davis said he's not only excited for what the project will bring but also for what it means for the city’s growth with the help of Pharrell.

"You have the home prodigy coming back and just showing love to the city and actually trying to grow the city a lot more," he said.

The developers say the park will be home to the only man-made wave park in the world this close to the actual ocean.

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