Coffee in hand, Norfolk? We've got the latest town updates for you. Keep reading to stay in the loop. ☀️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: Liberty Tax Job Fair and 10 more events.
Today's riddle: Why do Norway's navy ships all have barcodes? 🤔 (Answer below!)
1. Counterfeit goods, unsafe products keep being shipped to Virginia: 'We can't catch it all' (wtvr.com) — Federal customs agents working in Norfolk are seizing counterfeit and unsafe imports, from flammable rugs to fake-certified sinks, before they can reach American homes and businesses. Officials say criminals increasingly use stolen identities and false paperwork, and that with hundreds of thousands of containers moving through the port, they're racing to protect consumers here and nationwide as the holiday shipping season ramps up.
2. Don't throw away this opportunity: Norfolk hosts fall waste collection event (13newsnow.com) — Norfolk residents can safely drop off hazardous waste, electronics, plastics, documents for shredding, and even old child car seats at a free drive-up event on Saturday, Oct. 31, at Southside STEM Academy. You can also pick up a free native tree, and donate food and pet supplies to support local pantries while you declutter.
3. Sentara, Anthem end negotiations over Medicare Advantage, Medicaid plans without a deal (13newsnow.com) — Sentara Health, based in Norfolk, has ended talks with Anthem over Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and ACA Exchange plans, warning many local patients could be out-of-network starting January 2027 if no deal emerges. Coverage stays the same through 2026, but residents are urged to review options during upcoming open enrollment periods and use Sentara's resources to avoid surprises in access and costs.
4. Back in the exam room, Ralph Northam reflects on life after Richmond (whro.org) — Former governor Ralph Northam is back to full-time pediatric neurology work in Norfolk, treating local children at Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters and teaching young doctors. He reflects on how his years in statewide office, including expanding Medicaid, deepened his empathy for families struggling with health access, while patients now mostly know him as the doctor focused on their child's care.
5. My First Month With HRS! (wavy.com) — A Hampton Roads Show intern reflects on a busy first month that included helping film a live cooking segment at Van Go Bistro in Ghent, Norfolk. He describes learning everything from scripting to control-room operations, giving locals a peek at how their regional lifestyle show comes together behind the scenes.
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Ok Norfolk! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!
-- The Patch AM Team
P.S. The answer to today's riddle: "Why do Norway's navy ships all have barcodes?" — So when they come back to port they can just scan-da-navi-an! (Thank you Jessica C. for sending it in!)
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