| Thursday, September 24, 2026|Issue #61|Newport news, VA |
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Good morning, Newport News!
Let’s start the morning by celebrating some folks who have given a whole lot to this city. ❤️ Eighteen Newport News residents age 90 and older were honored at the 19th Annual Lifelong Citizenship Awards at Brittingham-Midtown Community Center. Together, the honorees have contributed more than 730 years of service to local churches, civic groups, charities and community organizations. The Newport News Sheriff’s Office joined the Color Guard and even helped serve lunch afterward. That is a pretty good reminder that some of the people who helped build this community are still showing us how it is done.
In today’s newsletter:
☀️ Weather
⚓ $180M Ship Repair Expansion Brings 414 Jobs
💰 Visitors Spent $337.3M in Newport News
🏠 Newport News Housing Summit Kicks Off This Week
📅 Events
Here’s what’s up. |
Trivia Question❓What is Denbigh High School’s mascot? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
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Uncharted Adaptive Fitness stands out as a welcoming space where everyBODY belongs. Their personalized workouts blend cardio, strength, and endurance, making fitness both fun and accessible for all, including those with neurological or medical conditions. With options for one-on-one training or supportive group sessions, athletes of every ability level can build confidence and achieve their goals in a safe and encouraging environment. Join the community and experience expert coaching from passionate trainers who believe that no fitness journey is too Uncharted! |
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⚓ $180M Ship Repair Expansion Will Bring 414 Jobs to Newport News |
The Gist: S23 Holdings is investing $180 million to expand its Newport News shipyard off Terminal Avenue, adding 414 jobs, a new 48,000 square foot production facility and a state of the art shiplift system. East Coast Repair and Fabrication will continue operating there, handling repair, maintenance and modernization work for the U.S. Navy. Why It Matters: The expansion nearly doubles the company’s footprint and gives Newport News more capacity for larger, more complex ship repair work. It also adds hundreds of maritime jobs to one of the city’s biggest industries. Important Correction: This project is not Newport News Shipbuilding/HII. It is S23 Holdings and East Coast Repair and Fabrication at the Terminal Avenue shipyard.
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💰 Visitors Spent $337.3M in Newport News |
The Gist: Visitors spent $337.3 million in Newport News in 2025, up 2.2% from 2024. Tourism supported 3,261 jobs and generated $21 million in local tax revenue. Why It Matters: That money reaches hotels, restaurants, attractions, shops and other local businesses. More visitor spending also means more jobs and tax dollars staying in Newport News.
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🏠 Newport News Housing Summit Kicks Off This Week |
The Gist: Newport News is bringing housing experts, Realtors and residents together for three days focused on homeownership, housing trends, development and stronger neighborhoods. Realtors get a breakfast and trolley tour Thursday, September 24, housing professionals meet Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and the general public is invited Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at CNU’s Gaines Theater. Registration is required, and Saturday attendees can park at 1 Avenue of the Arts, with shuttle service to the theater. Why It Matters: Whether you are trying to buy a home, understand local housing options or simply see where Newport News is headed, Saturday gives residents a chance to hear directly from the people working on housing across the city.
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Here’s what’s happening this weekend 👇 |
Saturday, September 26
🪴 Fall Plant Sale Brittingham Midtown Community Center | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
🛍️ Colony Pool Harvest Market Colony Pool | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM.
🚌 African American Cultural Experiences Trolley Tour Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
🖼️ Exhibition Tour | Paul Reed: A Retrospective The Mariners' Museum and Park | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
🦞 15th Annual Kiwanis Peninsula Seafood Festival Watermen's Museum | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM.
🎸 Phil Poteat Smoke BBQ Restaurant & Bar | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
🎸 Dave Crumpler Hilton Tavern Brewing Company | 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
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Hispanic Heritage Month Restaurant Week |
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Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Newport News by exploring a delicious array of special menus and exclusive dishes at local Hispanic restaurants. From traditional favorites like tacos and empanadas to creative fusion plates, you'll discover vibrant flavors and unique culinary traditions. The festivities also include lively festivals, cultural dance performances, art exhibitions, and educational workshops designed to engage the whole community. Whether you’re a foodie or a culture enthusiast, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this September. |
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Fire Prevention Showcase |
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Join us for the Fire Prevention Showcase, a fun and educational event perfect for all ages! Meet local firefighters and specialty teams, explore fire engine displays, and enjoy interactive presentations. There will be plenty of hands-on activities and great photo opportunities for everyone. The event is free and offers convenient parking. Bring your family and friends to Huntington Park and learn important fire safety tips in a lively, community atmosphere. |
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Chaplain Introductory Training |
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Join us for the Chaplain Introductory Training organized by the Newport News Police Foundation. This event offers a great opportunity for those interested in serving as chaplains to learn, connect, and grow in their calling. Held at the Police Training Academy in the NNPD North Precinct, you'll gain valuable insights and practical skills in a supportive, in-person environment. Become a part of the team supporting Newport News law enforcement and your community. |
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🏃 Frosty Feat 5K Returns This December |
The Frosty Feat 5K is coming to Newport News on Saturday, December 12, at Copeland Field across from Warwick High School. The family-friendly event is sponsored by the Newport News Public Schools Wellness Program and includes a 5K at 9 a.m. and a 1-mile fun run at 8:30 a.m. Registration is $20 for the 5K and $5 for the fun run, with prices increasing after November 11. Packet pickup is Friday, December 11, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Todd Stadium. Read More... |
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🎓 CNU Celebrates 65 Years With a Look Back at Its Very First Graduate |
Christopher Newport is celebrating 65 years, and its story started much smaller than today’s campus. In 1962, Lois Wright became the school’s first and only graduate that year, back when Christopher Newport College operated from a converted Newport News elementary school with about 170 students and eight full-time faculty members. Wright later earned advanced degrees, built a career in social work and education, and today remains connected to CNU, including funding a scholarship for a music student with financial need. From one graduate to the university Newport News knows today, it is a pretty remarkable local transformation.
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Meme of the Day |
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EDUCATION
🔬 Jefferson Lab Offers Free Science Training for Teachers
Dunamis Christian Center received a 2026 Dollar General Literacy Foundation grant to support young readers in Newport News. The money can be used for books, technology, equipment and literacy programs for K through 12 students who need extra help. It is part of nearly $80,000 awarded across Virginia, bringing more reading resources directly into the Newport News community. Learn More... |
ARTS & CULTURE
🎨 Port Warwick Art & Sculpture Festival Returns October 10 and 11
One of Newport News’ favorite fall weekends is almost back. The 22nd Annual Port Warwick Art & Sculpture Festival returns to William Styron Square on October 10 and 11 with more than 90 artists from across the country, original art and sculpture, food vendors, children’s activities and a beer and wine garden. Live music runs throughout the weekend with Zen Mojo, Phil Casey, Red Stapler Duo, Chisman Creek Band, Soundscapes and the Patrick Ryan Band. This year’s featured artwork is Big City Jazz by Barton Hatcher, with signed 2026 Collector’s Posters available at the festival. Admission is free, making this an easy fall weekend to put on the Newport News calendar.
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🐾 Meet Leggy Peggy! |
Peggy is a 3-year-old German Shepherd mix with long legs, lots of energy and a sweet side that comes out once she gets comfortable. She loves walks, outdoor adventures and keeping an eye out for squirrels, so a home without small animals may be best. Peggy is currently relaxing in a foster home and is ready to find her forever adventure buddy. Learn More... |
💡 Answer to Trivia Question: The Patriot |
😊Thanks! |
Thanks for reading The Newport Newser today. If you found something useful, please share it with someone who checks the weather, ignores it, then acts shocked when it rains.
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