Nearly 900 runners braved hot, humid, and rainy weather for the 47th annual Elizabeth River Run 10K in Portsmouth on September 13. The event, organized by the Tidewater Striders, brought together community members for both the main race and a one-mile children’s run.

Proceeds supported the Children’s Museum of Virginia, turning participants’ efforts into a charitable cause. Runners found the experience fun and rewarding, with many sharing how the sport has positively impacted their lives and encouraging others to get involved in future races.

Costco is ramping up its expansion plans, aiming to open more than 30 new warehouses annually for the next five to 10 years.

The strategy reflects strong confidence in continued demand and ongoing growth.

Fourteen new locations are highlighted in the latest plans, with five U.S. stores set to open in November in Idaho, California, Arizona, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

The Newport News, Virginia, warehouse will stand out as one of the chain’s largest, measuring 163,000 square feet and including a fuel station.

This aggressive expansion signals Costco’s commitment to new markets and reinforces its footprint in current regions nationwide.

A city-commissioned study suggests that installing porous wind fences up to 80 feet tall could reduce coal dust migration from Newport News terminals by nearly 90%.

This proposal comes after years of concerns from Southeast Community residents about coal dust impacting their health and homes.

Despite the promising results, the city has not committed to building the fences due to the estimated $10–$20 million cost and the need for additional feasibility studies.

City officials are reviewing possible options, and a separate state environmental study on coal terminal impacts is also forthcoming.

The Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore hosted its inaugural Hunger Action Summit to tackle rising food insecurity in the area. Leaders and advocates warned that federal policy changes to SNAP and Medicaid may worsen hardships for vulnerable families.

Key discussions focused on the crucial link between nutritious food access and better health, celebrating the concept of food as medicine.

The foodbank also unveiled plans for a $35 million, 103,000-square-foot distribution center in Virginia Beach, set to begin construction in March, aiming to expand local hunger relief efforts for years to come.

"Where the waters meet in Hampton Roads, so, too, do stories, history, and the promise of tomorrow."

• Deepest Natural Harbor: The Hampton Roads waterway is one of the largest, deepest natural harbors in the world, allowing the region to support extensive naval and commercial shipping without requiring significant dredging.
• WWI Balloon School: Near present-day Langley Air Force Base in Hampton, the U.S. Army ran a "balloon school" during World War I, training soldiers to use tethered observation balloons for reconnaissance missions over enemy lines.
• Miles of Tunnels: The region is home to the oldest underwater vehicular tunnel in North America—the Downtown Tunnel between Norfolk and Portsmouth—which opened in 1952. It was followed by several innovative bridge-tunnel complexes, including the 17.6-mile Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel.
• Birthplace of Air Pollution Control: In the 1920s, the city of Newport News established some of the nation’s earliest laws to regulate industrial emissions, decades before federal clean air standards were adopted.
• African American Heritage: In Hampton, the Emancipation Oak on the campus of Hampton University is the historic site where one of the first Southern readings of the Emancipation Proclamation took place in 1863.

Why don't oysters in Hampton Roads ever miss an appointment?

Because they're always in their shell-phones waiting for the tide to turn!

Get ready for an electrifying night of rock and blues as ZZ TOP takes the stage with special guest Jive Mother Mary. Enjoy the iconic sounds, signature style, and legendary hits from the band that’s been delivering unforgettable performances for over 50 years.

Join fellow fans at the Diamonstein Concert Hall for a memorable experience filled with music, energy, and a touch of Texas swagger. Valet parking is available, so treat yourself to a seamless concert night out!

Get ready for an unforgettable night of soul and classic R&B! The Spinners, one of the most beloved vocal groups in music history, will light up the Diamonstein Concert Hall with their legendary harmonies and timeless hits. From their Motown days to their signature Philadelphia soul sound, The Spinners’ catalog is sure to have you singing along.

Join us for an energetic live performance where classic songs and tight harmonies meet a polished stage presence. Don’t miss the chance to see Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees The Spinners perform their greatest hits and share a night filled with music and nostalgia.

Mingle at the Movies

Hampton Roads Sporting Events

• ODU vs East Carolina - Old Dominion Monarchs host the East Carolina Pirates in a mid-week college football matchup at Chartway Arena.

• Norfolk State vs Hampton - The 67th annual "Battle of the Bay" rivalry game between the Spartans and Pirates at Norfolk State's home stadium.

• ODU vs James Madison - Old Dominion faces James Madison in a conference matchup at S.B. Ballard Stadium in Norfolk.

• MWR Flag Football Tournament - Military community flag football competition held daily at Naval Station Norfolk's fitness center.

Take the Ferry for Free, Skip the Toll Traffic

Did you know you can bypass the often-congested Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel and avoid tolls by using the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry? Even locals overlook this scenic, totally free shortcut connecting Surry and Jamestown.

It’s perfect for road trips along Route 10 or heading to Williamsburg and the Historic Triangle—plus, you get a breezy ride across the James River with stellar sunset views. Times may vary, but you can check real-time ferry status before you go. For a less stressful, cost-free trip (and a mini adventure), the ferry is Hampton Roads’ best-kept locals’ secret.

🦪 Harpoon Larry's Oyster Bar

Location: 621 J. Clyde Morris Blvd, Newport News

The Story: A Hampton Roads institution since 1991 — started in Hampton for 22 years before relocating to Newport News. Family-owned, no frills, all flavor.

Why Locals Love It:

• Fresh local seafood delivered straight to the back door
• Extensive raw bar with house-made cocktail sauce
• Rustic beach shack vibe meets casual sports bar
• Great drink specials

Go For: Oysters, raw bar, fried seafood platters, cold beer

Vibe: Unpretentious, local hangout where the seafood does the talking