Today
in Norfolk
Thursday, October 16th, 2025
Good morning, Norfolk. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 16th of October.
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Virginia Furniture Company, a well-known Norfolk store that opened in 1939 and operated for 86 years, will close on Dec. 31 after co-owners David and Jeff Laibstain retire. A going out sale runs from Oct. 6 until supplies last at its current location on 745 Granby Street—NEON District. WAVY
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The Stockley Gardens Fall Arts Festival returns this weekend in Ghent's Stockley Gardens Park—Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.—with all proceeds supporting the Hope House Foundation that aids individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities; over 115 artists will show work while live music, children's activities, and food vendors add to the event. WHRO
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The Norfolk School Board has narrowed the field for its new public schools superintendent to five and will interview candidates from Oct. 20 through Nov. 3. Interim superintendent Dr. James Pohl leads the division after former superintendent Dr. Sharon Byrdsong was terminated—she received a year’s severance pay. WAVY
- ➤ The Norfolk School Board voted six to one to adopt a major school closure and consolidation plan that will close Willoughby and Norview elementary schools beginning in the 2026-2027 school year and relocate Ghent School students to a space at Rosemond Middle School. Further closures, rebuilds, and public hearings scheduled before March 30 will continue through the 2030-2033 school years—ensuring a phased transition for Norfolk students. WAVY
- ➤ The Norfolk School Board voted to close nine schools — starting next year with Norview Elementary School and the Willoughby Early Childhood Center — over the next five years to address declining enrollment as part of a city council mandate. One board member opposed the plan because she said the promised savings were unclear, and members expect more changes as demographics shift. WHRO
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Halfway through Pedestrian Safety Awareness month, Norfolk Police Department is urging drivers and pedestrians to stay alert after a series of incidents—including a fatality, a child injury, and serious injuries to an adult. The department advises using sidewalks and designated crosswalks while drivers slow down and yield to walkers—especially with Halloween approaching. WAVY
- ➤ The City of Norfolk will host a drive-up and drop-off waste collection event on November 1 from 9 a.m. to noon at Azalea Baptist Church—3314 E. Little Creek Road—where residents can safely dispose of items like paint, batteries, pesticides, oils, and propane tanks. Booths will also provide document shredding and accept canned food and unopened pet food donations for PrimePlus Food Pantry and Norfolk Animal Care Center with proof of residency required. WAVY
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ In honor of Global Handwashing Day, Chesapeake Health Department shared survey findings showing only 63% of people washed hands after using public restrooms and nearly half skipped washing at key times such as after grocery store visits. The department said washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds—shown to reduce illnesses like diarrhea, stomach bugs and colds—remains the simplest way to lower the risk of getting sick. WAVY
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Everclear Live Concert
7:30-9 p.m. — The NorVa — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate 30 years of rock with Everclear in a high-energy comeback show.
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Joel Ross Concert
7:30-9:30 p.m. — Attucks Theatre — Tickets available — Experience the lush sound of vibraphonist Joel Ross, a Blue Note artist redefining the vibes.
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CommUNITY Play-In and Sing Along
4:30-6 p.m. — Booker T. Washington High School — Free entry — Celebrate peace, inclusion, and unity through music, dance, and spoken word in a vibrant community gathering.
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Dementia Caregiver Workshop
Join Certified Dementia Caregiver Specialist, Marcia Futterman Brodie of Marcia Trains on Tuesday, Oct. 21 from 9:30 a.m.-noon for the Dementia Caregiver Workshop to be held at Aviva Pembroke, 373 Constitution Ave, Virginia Beach. The workshop is designed to help participants gain a better understanding and practical strategies to support those affected by the changes that occur in the brain. The goal of this workshop, taught by Brodie, who has completed Certified Independent Positive Approach to Care™ training, is to demonstrate to caregivers how individuals with cognitive impairment hear, see, and comprehend, as well as how these same caregivers can provide support.
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Emma - The Play (Preview)
7:30-9 p.m. — Wells Theatre — Tickets from $88 — Experience an unforgettable evening with the preview of Emma at the historic Wells Theatre.
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Emma - The Play (Preview)
7:30-9 p.m. — Wells Theatre — Tickets starting at $83 — Experience a captivating preview of the classic tale reimagined for the stage.
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Norfolk's Halloween Pub Crawl
4:30-9 p.m. — The Public House — 25% off with code SCREAM25 — Embrace the spooky season with contests, prizes, and haunted fun at this festive pub crawl.
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Driver Improvement Course in Norfolk, VA
9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Wyndham Garden Norfolk Downtown — $68 cash or money order only — Attend this class to improve your driving skills and receive your Certificate of Completion the same day.
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Thrice Concert
7-8:30 p.m. — The NorVa — Check for tickets — Experience the dynamic sound and thoughtful lyrics from iconic post-hardcore band Thrice.
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Emma - The Play
7:30-9 p.m. — Wells Theatre — Tickets start at $119 — Experience the charm of Jane Austen's classic tale brought to life on stage.
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