Today
in Norfolk
Thursday, September 11th, 2025
Good morning, Norfolk. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 11th of September.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ United Way of the Virginia Peninsula has expanded its annual Day of Caring into a week-long event as local councils in Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson and James City County proclaimed Sept. 12 as the Day. Roughly 500 volunteers will work on 43 projects Friday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. — a kickoff brewery challenge will run Thursday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. WAVY
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ A plan to build a new hotel at Norfolk International Airport was canceled after the partnership dissolved—leaving the airport to consider funding and managing the project on its own with a decision pending from the Board of Commissioners. Airport president Mark Perryman said this change comes as the airport prepares to unveil a new International Arrivals Facility and additional airline gates. 13 News Now
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Cassie Donegan, crowned as Miss America 2026, grew up in Hampton Roads and performed at a local theatre, and her win—marked by a $3,000 talent award—connects our community with Broadway success. She represented New York in the pageant but was raised here, and she will use her title to promote arts education for local youth. WAVY
- ➤ A three-day celebration called Timbaland Way Weekend will honor Virginia Beach native Timbaland and local producers as it takes place from October 17 to October 19—featuring school visits, a street unveiling, a parade, and a concert. The events will recognize his contributions to music and his local roots. WAVY
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The Norfolk School Board agreed on a list of nine schools to be closed or repurposed to address a declining student population. They will vote on the plan on September 17 — if approved, it will go to City Council for further action. WAVY
- ➤ Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month runs from September 15 through October 15 and offers teachers and parents educational resources on art—dance, food, and history. Local educators can use lesson plans, videos, and activity bundles from WHRO Public Media to help students explore Hispanic contributions. WHRO
- ➤ A federal policy change ended the safe space rule that had shielded schools from immigration enforcement, and Norfolk Public Schools sent a letter to families explaining that while the district will follow the law to keep students safe, agents will now need a warrant to access records — immigration attorney Radlyn Mendoza stressed that FERPA still protects student privacy. This guidance aims to help families update documents and understand the new legal process. WAVY
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Atlantic hurricane season peaked on September 10th—with no active storms as dry air and windshear stopped storm formation. Forecasters say storms may form later and urge Norfolk residents to check weather updates. 13 News Now
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Most Virginians under 65 now need a doctor’s prescription to get the updated COVID-19 vaccine after the FDA revoked emergency use on Aug. 27, creating extra steps for pharmacies and doctors in Norfolk. Local residents may face added paperwork and potential cost issues as flu season begins — raising concerns about access to timely vaccinations. WHRO
- ➤ Bon Secours’ Kidz-N-Grief program has marked 25 years of offering free counseling to children coping with loss and provides sessions in Newport News and Portsmouth — where children meet twice a month to process grief through group and one-to-one support. The program requires registration and has a waitlist in Portsmouth while space remains available in Newport News. 13 News Now
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WWE Friday Night SmackDown
7:30-9 p.m. — Norfolk Scope Arena — Tickets available — Watch top wrestling stars like Cody Rhodes and Bianca Belair return to Norfolk for an electrifying night of action.
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Chuck Prophet & His Cumbia Shoes Concert
7-11 p.m. — The Annex — $20-$35.60 — Experience Chuck Prophet's rhythmic journey through Cumbia music inspired by his remarkable recovery from illness.
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Spineshank Live Concert
6:30-10:30 p.m. — The NorVa — Ticket price N/A — Experience a night of electrifying music at The NorVa with Spineshank.
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BJ Griffin Live Concert
7-8:30 p.m. — The NorVa — Ticket prices vary — Experience the musical talents of BJ Griffin along with special guests and a late night meet & greet.
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Fall Fest at the Virginia Zoo
5-8:30 p.m. — Virginia Zoo — Check website for admission — Celebrate autumn with nostalgic games and elevated tastings in a cozy atmosphere.
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James McMurtry with Betty Soo
7-10 p.m. — The Annex — $27-$37 — Experience a night of storytelling and music with James McMurtry and Betty Soo at this full band concert.
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Johnny Marr Concert
7:30-9 p.m. — The NorVa — Ticketed event — Experience the legendary sounds of Johnny Marr, the iconic guitarist from The Smiths.
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CaribFest Block Party
5-10 p.m. — Town Point Park — Free entry — Celebrate Caribbean culture with music, food, and vibrant performances in Norfolk.
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NXWORRIES Concert
7-9 p.m. — The NorVa — Ticket prices vary — Experience an exciting live performance at The NorVa featuring NXWORRIES.
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I Need A Truck Tour - Maddox Batson with Ashley Anne
7:30-9 p.m. — The NorVa — Tickets available — Enjoy the sounds of emerging country artists Maddox Batson and Ashley Anne live on stage.
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