Good morning, Newport News.

Mercy Drops Dream Center will host its 9th Annual Bowling Event on September 27, where families will bowl, eat, and win prizes while supporting programs that provide meals and clothing to local residents—sponsorship opportunities such as Main and Wristband spots are nearly sold out.

A survey by ForKids found that 11 of 27 Hampton Roads nonprofits reduced staff between May 9 and June 30 amid federal funding cuts and many expect more impacts in the coming months.

Twenty-nine organizations reported losing about $3 million (with six also cutting services), leaving smaller groups especially worried about their future.

A Georgia man posing as a football recruiter scammed a local man out of more than $20,000—he was arrested in Georgia and returned to York County to Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail.

His bond hearing is set for Aug. 12.

Williamsburg native astronaut Zena Cardman launched on SpaceX Crew-11 last Friday and now serves as the mission’s commander aboard the International Space Station where she is set to study low-gravity effects on the human body—she spoke on Tuesday about the rare twilight view from space and credited her Williamsburg teachers for inspiring her journey in science.

Mariners aboard the USNS Laramie returned to Naval Station Norfolk Tuesday morning after an 8-month deployment in the 6th Fleet's area of operations in the Mediterranean Sea.

The ship sailed 14,000 nautical miles, executed 77 replenishments, and will undergo cleaning and maintenance before its next deployment.

On July 1, a Virginia law required all drivers and adult passengers to wear seat belts in every seat—this law honors Williamsburg teen Christopher King who died on July 4, 2020.

If a car is pulled over for another reason, an unbuckled adult may face a $25 fine—officials say the change will help keep people safe.

Gospel Musical Extravaganza For The Soul

6:30-11:00 p.m. — Hub 757 — Ticketed event — Celebrate faith and community with uplifting performances and support for a new church sanctuary.

Ladies Day at Chef's Market

12:00–10:30 p.m. — Chef's Market Food Hall & Butcher Shop — Free entry — Celebrate women in music and support local women-owned vendors with fun activities and entertainment.

Hannah J Live Performance

6 PM – 12 AM — Cove Tavern — Check for ticket info — Experience the music of singer/songwriter Hannah J, a rising star from Williamsburg, VA.

3rd Annual MADE in Newport News

5-8 p.m. — City Center at Oyster Point — Free entry — Celebrate local culture and community at this lively block party event.

Pawpaw Festival

10 AM – 4 PM — Historic Endview — Free entry — Celebrate Virginia’s largest native fruit with tastings and festivities at Historic Endview.

Corey Pavlosky Live at Berret's Seafood

3:30-9:30 p.m. — Berret's Seafood Restaurant and Taphouse Grill — Free entry — Enjoy live music from Newport News' own Corey Pavlosky in a scenic seafood venue.

Driver Improvement Course

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Hampton Inn & Suites Newport News — $68 cash or money order only — Improve your driving skills and receive your completion certificate on the same day.