Local activist Brandon Randleman welcomes everyone at Tabernacle Baptist Outreach Center in Suffolk for a rally against ICE on April 23, 2026. (Photo by Toby Cox)
Suffolk residents gather to say ICE facilities aren’t welcome in their community
Community members recently gathered at the Tabernacle Baptist Outreach Center to protest a potential U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Suffolk.
The rally focused on reports that local businessman Johnny Garcia has been in talks to lease 9,000 square feet of office space to the federal agency.
While Garcia has stated the negotiations are "just business," critics argue the facility would destabilize the community and fear the space could be used for detentions rather than administrative work.
Virginia Marine Resources Commission considers another petition to study Chesapeake Bay menhaden Read more
Virginia money committee heads point the finger at each other on budget Read more
As small attack drones become vital in warfare, the U.S. is trying to catch up to other countries Read more
Trump administration eases rules on some marijuana categories. Here's what to know. Read more
The Lift and Rise is a mixed-income apartment complex in Newport News’ Southeast community. (Photo by Ryan Murphy)
Newport News housing plan gives leaders options to address affordable housing
Newport News City Council approved the Strategic Housing Initiatives Plan to address affordable housing and accommodate projected population growth through 2050.
Among its proposals is the exploration of a land value tax, which assesses land independently of buildings to incentivize the development of residential properties.
The initiative follows data showing that nearly half of Newport News renters are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of their income on housing.
Zama Magudulela stars as Rafiki in the North American Broadway tour of "The Lion King." It will run at Chrysler Hall in Norfolk, April 30-May 17. (Photo courtesy of Matthew Murphy)
South African actor sees herself in her strong role in 'The Lion King'
Zama Magudulela, who plays Rafiki in the North American production of “The Lion King,” will bring the record-breaking musical to Norfolk’s Chrysler Hall for an 18-day run starting this Thursday.
Born in South Africa, Magudulela has performed the role across the world in cities such as Paris, Madrid and São Paulo, singing the iconic "Circle of Life" in Zulu to ensure the show's cultural authenticity.
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