🏫 Newport News Voters to Decide School Construction Tax

The Gist: On Nov. 3, Newport News voters will decide whether to authorize an additional local sales tax of up to 1% for school construction and major renovations. If the full amount is later approved by City Council, the city estimates it could generate about $29 million a year. The money could only be used for school capital projects, not salaries or operating expenses.

Why It Matters: NNPS has identified about $356.8 million in school capital needs through 2031, including projects such as Denbigh High School renovations, replacing Dutrow Elementary, and upgrades to aging roofs and HVAC systems. A “yes” vote would give City Council authority to enact the tax. It would not automatically impose it.  Read More...

🏠 Newport News Launches New Housing Relief Grant

The Gist: Newport News has launched the Resident First Housing Relief Grant Program, a pilot program that can cover up to half of an eligible homeowner’s real estate tax bill for the current fiscal year. The money is a grant, not a loan, so it does not have to be repaid. Applicants must meet income requirements, live in and own the Newport News home, and meet other eligibility rules.

Why It Matters: Applications are open through December 31 and will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis. For homeowners struggling with rising housing costs, this could provide some real breathing room.  Read more...

💰 Smithfield Foods Puts $250K Into CNU Business Students

The Gist: Smithfield Foods is investing $250,000 to launch the new Future Leaders Scholarship at Christopher Newport University. Starting with the 2026-27 school year, eight incoming business students will each receive $7,500 a year, renewable for up to four years. Recipients will be selected based on financial need and academic achievement.

Why It Matters: The program goes beyond tuition help. Students will also connect with Smithfield leaders, pursue internships and get opportunities to explore careers with the company after graduation.  Read More...

Here’s what’s happening this weekend 👇

🏀 Fright Night Nets

✅ Where: Achievable Dream Tennis Center

✅ When: Friday, Oct. 30 | 6–11 p.m.

✅ Cost: Free

✅ What’s Happening: Basketball, spooky activities, free food and candy

✅ Costumes: Welcome, but no masks allowed

🐾 Free Drive-Through Rabies Vaccination Clinic

✅ Where: Peninsula Regional Animal Shelter, 5843 Jefferson Ave., Newport News

✅ When: Saturday, Nov. 7 | 8–11 a.m.

✅ Cost: Free

✅ Who: Dogs and cats 12 weeks or older

✅ Registration: Pre-registration preferred, walk-ups accepted as time and supplies allow

Dogs must be on a leash and cats must be in carriers. The clinic is offering one-year rabies vaccinations only.

🏃 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...

🎓 Mallory Tuttle Takes the Lead at Virginia Tech's Newport News Center

Mallory Tuttle is taking on a bigger role in the community she calls home.

The Hampton Roads native has been named director of Virginia Tech's Newport News Center and Coastal Virginia Regional Initiatives. Previously the center's associate director, she'll help connect local businesses, schools, and community leaders with Virginia Tech's resources.

Located at Tech Center Research Park in Newport News, the center supports workforce training, business partnerships, and programs that create new opportunities across Hampton Roads.

Tuttle was also named to Virginia Business magazine's 2026 Forty Under 40 list.

Congratulations, Mallory! It's always good to see local talent helping our region grow. 

Read More...

🐾 Meet Peanut, a High-Energy Pup Looking for the Right Home

Peanut first came to PRAS as a stray at about 6 months old and is now thriving in foster care after being returned by a previous adopter. He’s playful, energetic and still learning how to manage all that excitement, so he’ll do best with a patient home that can provide structure, training and consistency. Peanut has lived with a cat, has done well meeting other dogs and is currently living with two female dogs in foster. Because of his energy and rough play style, everyone in the household will need to meet him before adoption.

🐾 Visit Peninsula Regional Animal Shelter at 5843 Jefferson Ave., Newport News to learn more.

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