Good morning, Norfolk.

THRIVE Peninsula received 519 food assistance requests last week—double the normal number—as the government shutdown left local families and furloughed workers in urgent need.

The nonprofit is adding market hours and appointments while depending on community donations and volunteer help to support those affected.

Darden Hams will invest over $1 million to build a new 7,200-square-foot production facility in Isle of Wight County—Governor Glenn Youngkin approved a $50,000 grant and local funds will match, while the project will add a curing and smoking operation, warehouse, and show kitchen as the company commits to buying over 300,000 pounds of Virginia-grown pork.

Bacon’s Castle in Surry County was built in 1665 and expanded in 1854—its large size fostered legends of ghostly voices, floating orbs, and even a lady in white.

Visitors continue to add their own paranormal experiences to the historic site linked to Nathaniel Bacon’s rebellion.

Muralist Venazir Martinez is painting a mural near ODU that blends Norfolk history and Filipino heritage by using her signature crimson thread on a wall next to University Village Bookstore—adding local context and tradition; she will discuss her work tomorrow at noon at Baron & Ellin Gordon Art Galleries—her project is funded by an endowment from the Filipino American community.

Over the weekend, veterans Fritz and Shannon Toussaint attended a destination wedding in Jamaica with 70 guests before Hurricane Melissa hit their resort in Hanover, leaving them with scarce food and limited medical care—elderly and children in their group faced heightened risks.

The local station will follow up if weather conditions improve.

Virginia officials launched the new Seed-to-Sale program in July to track medical cannabis from growth to sale and found that average monthly sales reached $15 million statewide and $3.6 million in Tidewater; the system improves patient safety & helps regulators monitor product types and review purchase limits. Officials expect the data will guide decisions on whether to adjust limits as state lawmakers debate expanding to a recreational cannabis market.

Coppin State's Cherisse Atilano was named MEAC Player of the Week today—Maryland Eastern Shore's Malysia Shaw earned Rookie of the Week honors while Coppin State's Andrea Serrano and Luna Ivanna received Setter and Defensive Player of the Week awards.

Emma - The Play

7:30-9 p.m. — Wells Theatre — Tickets from $119 — Experience a delightful performance of Emma at the renowned Wells Theatre in Norfolk.

Emma - The Play

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Wells Theatre — Starting at $130 — Experience the timeless tale of Emma brought to life on stage.

Silent Disco

8-9:30 p.m. — The Market — Drink specials available — Dance the night away with your choice of music in a unique silent disco setting.

From Ashes To New - Tour 2025

7-9 p.m. — The NorVa — All Ages — Experience an energetic night with From Ashes To New featuring Magnolia Park and Until I Wake.

The Wiz Musical

7:30-9 p.m. — Chrysler Hall — Ticket packages available — Experience the classic retelling of the Wizard of Oz in an exciting musical format.

The Wiz

7:30-9 p.m. — Chrysler Hall — Check event page for ticket info — Experience the Tony® Award-winning musical that has returned in a thrilling new Broadway tour.

The Disco Biscuits Concert

7-9 p.m. — The NorVa — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of transformation and invention with the iconic Philadelphia-based band.

The Elovaters Live Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — The NorVa — Check venue for ticket prices — Experience the rising stars of the reggae scene with The Elovaters.

The Wiz

2:00 – 3:30 PM — Chrysler Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magical journey in this beloved musical adaptation of 'The Wizard of Oz'.

Adirondack Thunder vs. Norfolk Admirals

3:05-4:35 p.m. — Norfolk Scope Arena — Family-friendly fun — Enjoy a hockey match and post-game meet & greet for the whole family.