Virginia Beach News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!

A $17.9 million sale of Virginia Beach’s National Golf Club is sparking heated debate, as Dragas Companies plans to renovate the course and build up to 660 homes—with nearly $20 million in city funding and a new childcare center. But residents are furious over the secretive timeline, claiming the city negotiated with Dragas for over a year before public proposals were even sought. At a public hearing, critics called the process rushed and unfair, with one urging council to reject the deal outright. Concerns also mount over bald eagle nests on site, though the city attorney insists all information was publ...

Joseph Alfonzo Cross is sentenced to life in prison after being convicted of murdering twin brothers Alvin and Calvin Joyner and critically injuring a woman in a brutal 2023 Nashville Avenue ambush. Armed and violent, Cross demanded money, then opened fire, forcing the woman to feign death to survive. He and his accomplice stole the car, looted the victims, and torched it. The judge handed down a life sentence with additional time, all to run concurrently — a verdict meant to deliver justice and protect the public, even if it can’t undo the irreversible loss.

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Two senators, one Democrat and one Republican, are demanding urgent changes to TRICARE’s autism therapy coverage, urging the Pentagon to remove barriers to applied behavior analysis—critical for kids with autism. After a military family’s struggle to access care sparked national attention, providers say TRICARE’s increasingly restrictive rules make therapy harder to obtain than with civilian plans like Medicaid. The senators want ABA therapy made a standard benefit, with flexible care plans, expanded locations for treatment, telehealth access, and fair copays. Without action, military children risk falling behind—leaving lasting consequences. The Pentagon has yet to respond. <...

Dare County is moving to regulate kratom—not ban it—focusing on products with artificially boosted or added levels of the active ingredient 7-OH, which mimics opioids. Local officials aim to protect public health while preserving access for those using kratom for pain relief or addiction recovery, especially veterans. A proposed ordinance, backed by public input, could make violations a misdemeanor, with a vote scheduled for next month as communities grapple with this emerging, complex supplement.

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A tragic shooting in Norfolk claims the life of rapper BS3Whiteboy, just a month after his wedding, as his wife Keara Poole fiercely denies the police’s claim of a pre-shooting argument. She insists they were simply enjoying a holiday stroll when gunshots erupted out of nowhere — a story she says is being twisted by online reports. While police stand by their account of a verbal altercation in a parking lot, Poole’s grief is compounded by her own history of loss — she runs a grief support business after losing both her brothers — and now faces the agonizing question o...

The USS Nimitz, home to 3,000 sailors, is returning to Norfolk after a high-octane four-month deployment — its first-ever stop in New York City and a starring role in major exercises and diplomacy across the Atlantic. As flagship of Carrier Strike Group 11, it led 26 ships in Fleet Exercise 250 and the International Naval Review 250, while executing Southern Seas 26 to bolster security and partnerships across the hemisphere. This wasn’t just a mission — it was a maritime milestone.

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Virginia Beach is poised to sell its iconic 190-acre public golf course to Dragas Companies, sparking heated debate as city council prepares to vote next week. Supporters see the deal as a strategic win that could address pressing city needs, while opponents argue the course is a vital public asset worth preserving. A third group urges caution, calling for more time and community input before a final decision. With strong emotions on both sides, the council’s vote could reshape the future of this beloved local landmark.

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After 102 harrowing hours and a 14,000-square-mile search involving multiple carrier strike groups and Air Force units, the U.S. Navy has confirmed Commander Gabriel Edwards as the sailor missing after a helicopter emergency landing in the Arabian Sea on July 1st—and has suspended rescue efforts. A decorated 20-year Navy veteran and commanding officer of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 5, Edwards was lauded as a selfless, integrity-driven leader whose legacy as a devoted husband, father, and friend is being honored by his peers. His wife, Rebecca, called him the love of her life and the cornerstone of their family. A No...

Twelve-year-old cancer survivor Jackie Meeks is this year’s Anthem LemonAid ambassador, rallying communities to raise $130K for kids battling cancer and blood disorders at CHKD. After surviving treatment at the hospital and going 19 months cancer-free, Jackie’s personal story fuels her mission — last year her stand raised $25K, and she’s aiming higher. The campaign kicks off Friday at CHKD and runs through August 9. Set up your own stand at kingsdaughters.org — and join over 600 volunteers supporting this historic nonprofit since 1896.

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Isaiah Rashad is hitting the road for his biggest headline tour in years, “Lil Sunny’s Awful Road Trip,” in support of his acclaimed new album It’s Been Awful, with Alemeda as the special guest. The tour kicks off August 15 in Virginia Beach and rolls through major U.S. and Canadian cities through September — don’t miss your chance to catch him live, especially if you’re in the Virginia area or still have tickets left. With his genre-blending sound, razor-sharp lyrics, and unforgettable stage presence, this is a must-see run for fans and music lovers alike.

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Joseph Cross just received a life sentence for a savage double murder in February 2023, where he allegedly gunned down twin brothers Alvin and Calvin Joyner and a woman who was with them—then stole their car and set it ablaze. The jury convicted him on two counts of first-degree murder and multiple other charges, including robbery and carjacking. Prosecutors say Cross opened fire after a ride turned deadly, demanding money and leaving the survivor to play dead. The sentence underscores the brutality of the crime and aims to bring closure to victims’ families while ensuring full accountability.

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Car Burns in Virginia Beach | Virginia Beach News

Zuiderdam Docks in Norfolk | Virginia Beach News

Marine Le Pen is back in the presidential race despite being sentenced to wear an electronic monitor for embezzlement—convicted of misusing EU funds, with her party owing nearly $3.2 million. She vows to appeal, insisting the bracelet won’t stop her campaign and that her innocence will be proven. The court also eased her public office ban, allowing her to run, citing democratic principles and her prior time under restriction. Le Pen’s defiant stance—calling it a victory for voter choice—echoes past political figures like Nicolas Sarkozy, highlighting how legal battles can intersect with national politics.

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Christopher Newport University’s board has extended President William G. Kelly’s tenure by five years, setting him up to lead through 2031. Praise for his first three years includes a new community-driven strategic plan, a newly opened science and engineering research center, and expanded student recruitment without tuition hikes. The board envisions Kelly driving curriculum alignment with regional needs, deepening ties with local businesses, boosting fundraising, and ensuring the university scales appropriately for future enrollment. Rector Christy Morton emphasized the board’s confidence in Kelly’s leadership, calling stability at the helm critical during this pivotal chapter in the universi...

Dare County just gave the Dare Education Foundation a major boost with $1 million in funding to build 12 new teacher housing units in Kill Devil Hills — a project that’s been years in the making and now has the green light to expand. With additional support from TowneBank and a total projected cost of $4.65 million, the foundation is on track to complete the units in just 15 months. Teachers already benefiting from the program, including one who relocated from Colombia, say it’s been transformative for their families — giving them stability so they can focus on teaching. The funding also supports the foun...

Commander Gabriel Edwards, the fearless leader and commanding officer of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Five, has been identified as the sailor lost after a helicopter crash in the Arabian Sea. Though three crew members survived, the extensive 14,000-square-mile search for Edwards was called off after 102 hours. A decorated 20-year Navy veteran with aviator wings earned in 2008, Edwards took command of his squadron just last year. The Navy is honoring his legacy by posthumously promoting him to captain, calling him a true hero whose impact will endure. The Carrier Strike Group 10 family stands with his family in grief as investigators...

Virginia Tech kicks off 2027 with a historic showdown against The Citadel at Lane Stadium, marking their first meeting since 1953, followed by home dates with Liberty and a road tilt against Notre Dame. Meanwhile, three Old Dominion Sun Belt stars—Devin Roche, Chris Forbes, and Mario Easterly—earn All-Sun Belt first-team honors. In golf, Landon Hermansky of Poquoson leads the VSGA Junior Stroke Play after a stellar 70. And in baseball, the Orioles call up lefty Nick Raquet, who’s been dominant with a 2-0 record and 3.21 ERA for the Norfolk Tides.

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Motorcyclist Dies in Norfolk Crash | Virginia Beach News

Two devastating earthquakes struck Venezuela on June 24th, registering 7.2 and then a staggering 7.5 magnitude — leaving over 3,000 dead, thousands injured, and hundreds of buildings in ruins. With roads shattered, infrastructure crippled, and the nation already reeling from economic collapse and political chaos, the urgent need for aid is overwhelming. Yet, despite a U.S. pledge of $300 million and recent military intervention that ousted Maduro, aid remains painfully slow — raising serious questions about America’s commitment. With billions in oil revenue supposedly secured, the U.S. now faces a moral and logistical imperative: step up, act fast, and deliver life-saving help before...

Virginia’s marijuana laws are in legal limbo after a top prosecutor claims a budget bill accidentally repealed restrictions on weed sales and possession for under-21s—potentially making it legal as early as July 1, 2024. But the state’s legislative drafting team insists the old rules still stand until the full legal framework activates in 2027, calling the prosecutor’s interpretation a “word problem” that courts may side with the defense on. The stakes are high: current penalties for selling weed range from misdemeanors to felonies with prison time. The showdown between legal interpretation and legislative intent is heating up.

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Two hundred fifty years after the Declaration of Independence, Puerto Rico’s 3.2 million U.S. citizens still lack full voting rights — a glaring contradiction to America’s founding ideals. Despite paying billions in federal taxes and overwhelmingly supporting statehood in recent referendums, Puerto Ricans remain politically disenfranchised. With bipartisan momentum building and a clear public will, it’s time for Congress to act — and finally grant Puerto Rico the full democratic rights it deserves.

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Williamsburg threw a historic 250th birthday bash for America, blending professional performers, local choirs, and indigenous groups in a PBS-broadcast celebration where crowds recited “We the People”—a powerful moment of unity. But amid the patriotism, Virginia’s attorney general is spending taxpayer dollars in a risky legal fight against a federal law meant to protect ICE agents’ identities, as federal officials warn of a surge in threats and exposed personal data. The state’s argument—that no officer has ever been attacked for revealing their identity—ignores documented spikes in violence and intimidation, turning this clash into a high-stakes batt...

A Navy helicopter commander with over 2,000 flight hours and a legacy of selfless leadership has been identified as the crew member lost in the Arabian Sea. Commander Gabe Edwards, the decorated leader of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Five, made an emergency landing on July 1st, and despite a massive 102-hour search covering 14,000 square miles, he was never found. His wife praised him as the foundation of their family, always putting his crew and values first. Commanders hailed him as a model of integrity and courage, with a promotion to Captain on the horizon. The Navy continues to investigate the...

A former Newport News police officer, Raheem Askew, now faces federal charges for allegedly sexually assaulting an Australian national during a March 2025 incident while on duty and in uniform. Though the state rape charge was dropped as part of a coordinated move to federal court, Askew now confronts a serious deprivation-of-rights charge under color of law — potentially carrying a life sentence. The victim, Jane Doe, claims she was intoxicated and disoriented, with no memory of the encounter or consent. Askew admitted to sex with her but failed to activate his body camera or notify dispatch. Fired from the force af...

Motorcycle Crash Closes North Military Highway | Virginia Beach News

A former Newport News police officer is facing federal charges after allegedly raping a woman while on duty — a crime that unfolded after he offered her a ride to her hotel, deactivated his body camera against policy, and later admitted to having sex with her while still in

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Kentucky Senator Mitch McConnell remains hospitalized over three weeks after his initial admission, with his office offering vague updates about his improving condition and ongoing care. Despite limited public details, top GOP senators including Majority Leader John Thune and second-in-command John Barrasso have visited him to discuss national security, Supreme Court matters, and upcoming elections. McConnell’s team confirms he’s engaged and eager to return to work, even as he continues recovery from a history of health challenges including concussions, wrist sprains, and polio-related mobility issues. Though out of the hospital, he’s reportedly staying involved with Senate busine...

Volunteers are harvesting sweet corn at Peach Bud Farms in Franklin, destined for families across Hampton Roads through the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore. This annual effort bridges the gap in access to fresh produce, with corn already en route to warehouses and partner organizations serving western tidewater, southside, and the eastern shore. Shifts are still open—7 AM and 9:30 AM Wednesday and Thursday—on the farm behind the Walmart on Armory Drive. Your time can directly fuel healthier meals for those in need.

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Old Dominion University is building its most ambitious facility yet—a $250 million Engineering and Arts complex set to open in 2030 as its centennial gift. Spanning 140,000 square feet across three floors, the state-funded project will house robotics labs, maker spaces, design studios, and exhibition areas, blending tech and creativity to fuel innovation. Designed by VMDO Architects, it’s the largest capital investment in ODU’s history—symbolizing bold growth even as the university navigates recent turmoil, including a campus shooting and a faculty senate vote of no confidence over leadership decisions.

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Norfolk is finally moving forward with tearing down the long-neglected Military Circle Mall, which has sat abandoned and overgrown for three years—now deemed unsafe due to rampant vandalism. Demolition bids are due next week, with work expected to begin this fall, as the city races to secure a contractor and clear the site. Nearby residents, frustrated by years of inaction, hope this demolition marks the start of revitalization, though challenges remain—including unresolved property ownership and lingering businesses. The city’s focus? Getting the demolition done so the next chapter can begin.

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After nearly 50 years of service, the USS Nimitz is finally heading home — but don’t pack your bags just yet. Originally slated for retirement in May, the Navy just extended its service until March 2027, making this four-month deployment a bittersweet milestone. The carrier played a starring role in America 250 celebrations and partnered with U.S. Southern Command to reinforce security across the hemisphere. With roughly 3,000 sailors aboard, this isn’t just a homecoming — it’s a farewell with a twist. The exact return date to Norfolk is still pending, but one thing’s certain: this veteran ship’s story isn’t over. <...

The U.S. Mint is releasing a limited-edition quarter to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, featuring Thomas Jefferson on the front with a special “July Fourth” mark, and the Liberty Bell on the back — all unveiled at Monticello by Mint Director Paul Hollis, a coin expert with three decades of passion, making this a must-have for collectors and history buffs alike.

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A Paraguayan senator sparked international outrage after posting racist remarks targeting French football star Kylian Mbappé on X, accusing him of being “raised poorly” and mocking his appearance and background. French prosecutors are now investigating her for aggravated public insult and inciting hatred, potentially facing up to a year in jail and a $51,000 fine. Mbappé condemned her as “despicable,” and both the French Football Federation and President Macron publicly denounced the comments. The Paraguayan government distanced itself, calling her statements unacceptable. This case underscores how hate speech, even from abroad, can trigger swift legal and diplomatic consequences.

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Messi drops a miracle eighth goal to tie it, then Argentina storms back with two late goals to stun Egypt and book a quarterfinal spot—showing why the GOAT delivers when it matters most.

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Maine’s Senate race just exploded as Democratic nominee Graham Platner faces a sexual assault allegation from a former partner — a bombshell in a state Democrats desperately need to flip. Platner denies the claims, but pressure is mounting, with Senate Leader Chuck Schumer now pushing him to step aside before July 13th. If he stays, he’ll run against GOP Sen. Susan Collins without strong party support — a risky move. Elsewhere, key races heat up: Alaska’s Mary Peltola vs. Dan Sullivan, North Carolina’s Roy Cooper vs. Trump’s pick Michael Whatley, Ohio’s Sherrod Brown vs. Jon Husted, Iowa’s J...

The MacArthur Center in Norfolk is set for demolition by late next year after being shuttered since June — but here’s the twist: the city expects to save money, not spend it, thanks to the closure. They’re already planning auctions for everything from fake plants to marble fixtures, starting late fall or early winter. With engineering plans still in progress, the city is taking its time to clear and recycle materials — and predevelopment for demolition is gearing up as we head toward the end of this year.

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A drone buzzed dangerously close to a wild horse in the Outer Banks, triggering panic and sparking outrage. The Corolla Wild Horse Fund called it illegal, cruel, and harmful—drones mimic predators and can cause horses to bolt, risking foal separation. These horses, a national treasure, live in a sacred, untouched habitat where they raise young and heal. Public backlash is fierce, with many demanding drone bans except for law enforcement. This incident underscores our duty to respect these century-old wild residents and their fragile ecosystem.

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Williamsburg’s food scene is heating up with major new arrivals—Dutch Bros. Coffee, Chipotle, and Panera Café all eyeing Mooretown Road and nearby spots, while The Meadows expands to Yorktown. Don Chido, a vibrant Latin eatery from chef Abner Alva, just opened with a mayor’s endorsement, promising bold flavors and a lively vibe. Meanwhile, K’bola Cuban is reopening on North Henry Street, and The Rustic Table bakery debuts with artisan bread and cookies—more caffeine, flavor, and fresh treats coming your way.

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Adopt a furry friend now—Peninsula Regional Animal Shelter is slashing adoption fees through July 26th thanks to the Bissell Pet Foundation’s “Empty the Shelters” campaign. Get cats for just $10 or dogs for $20, with senior pets (8+) completely free. Perfect for anyone ready to give a deserving animal a forever home.

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