Good morning, Newport News.

James City County police are seeking help to locate 20-year-old Natalie Deaton from Williamsburg who was last seen on May 5 leaving unexpectedly without her phone and wearing a black t-shirt and blue shorts + she may need medical care given her prolonged absence.

Cardinal Robert Prevost of Chicago was elected as the 267th pope and took the name Pope Leo XIV, making him the first American to hold the role in the Roman Catholic Church—local Catholics gathered at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church in Newport News to witness this historic moment and reflect on its call for outreach and social justice.

Port of Virginia CEO Stephen Edwards said that tariffs on Chinese goods are causing a short-term drop in freight starting later in May while noting that only 20% of the port's business involves China and Hong Kong—most trade is with the European Union.

He said the port is well-prepared for future changes and will keep operations running without layoffs.

Hampton University will expand its workforce development program with new spaces for culinary arts, business networking, and technical training available to both students and community members in fall.

The expansion honors the university's vocational roots and aims to meet local community needs—supporting economic development.

At Fort Monroe, construction crews began work at 90 Ingalls Road as part of a plan to renovate over 500,000 square feet into 78 new apartments — the project follows the Army deed transfer in 2021 and will include the African Landing Memorial project with 4th of July fireworks planned for VA 250.

Virginia U.S. Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine criticized the loss of three F/A-18 jets from the USS Harry S.

Truman and over $100 million in taxpayer funds due to separate mishaps—including an accidental shootdown, a hangar bay slide, and a system failure—with no serious injuries reported. They called for Secretary Hegseth to resign and said a hearing with the Navy chief is expected to focus on these concerns—highlighting risks related to the carrier’s current deployment and safety issues.

Newport News voters will cast ballots in primaries for lieutenant governor, attorney general, treasurer, and commonwealth’s attorney on June 17 with polls open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Residents must register by May 27 or follow same-day registration rules and show a valid ID at their designated polling place (check with the registrar for polling locations).

The Hampton-Newport News Community Services Board will host its 3rd Mental Health Expo on Saturday at the Brittingham-Midtown Community Center (Pavilion) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and it will offer free mindfulness and self-care workshops along with food trucks to support mental health.

Relay For Life Peninsula VA

5-9 p.m. — Port Warwick — Donations encouraged — Celebrate and honor cancer survivors and those lost through this community-focused event by raising funds for cancer research.

Tidewater Chapter HOW Kayak Fishing Event

8 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Beaverdam Park — Free for veterans and first responders — Experience a day of kayak fishing with family-friendly activities and lunch included.

2025 Small Business Symposium

8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. — Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center — Free entry — Explore financing options and network with local entrepreneurs and supply chain professionals.

Driver Improvement Course

9 a.m. - 5 p.m. — Hampton Inn & Suites Newport News — $68 cash or money order only — Complete your Driving Improvement Class and get certified the same day.

Newport News Greek Festival

9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Hellenic Community Center — Free entry — Celebrate Greek culture with traditional music, food, and dance performances over three fun-filled days.

The Peninsula Amateur Golf Tournament

Tournament duration: 36 holes — Kiln Creek Golf Club and Resort — Registration details available for members — Compete in this exciting amateur golf event.