Community Corner

🌱 Patch AM: Why doesn’t Norfolk offer Dolly Parton’s free book program?

Coming up: "Native: Richard Wright & Paul Green" Play by Ian Finley on the Norfolk Patch calendar

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What's up Norfolk! Let's start this morning right by getting caught up on what's going on around town. Keep reading to stay in the loop. ☀️

In today's newsletter:

  • Why doesn't Norfolk offer Dolly Parton's free book program?
  • What finally happens next at Norfolk's long-empty Military Circle Mall?
  • How could Lafayette Boulevard change for drivers, walkers and cyclists?

Also on today's calendar: "Native: Richard Wright & Paul Green" Play by Ian Finley and 9 more events.

Today's riddle: Where do math teachers go on vacation? 🤔 (Answer below!)

Weather forecast:

  • Saturday: A stray afternoon t-storm, with a high of 87 and low of 72 degrees. 🌶 Hot!
  • Sunday: Partly sunny and humid, temps: high: 82, low: 68.
  • Monday: Mostly sunny and less humid, with a high of 82 and low of 62 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. As Dolly Parton's Imagination Library registrations surge in Virginia, Hampton Roads lags (pilotonline.com) — Norfolk families are missing out on Dolly Parton's Imagination Library even as registrations surge statewide, because the city has chosen to rely on its own early‑literacy programs instead of becoming a local partner. The article explains how nearby cities are using the free‑book program, why Chesapeake's version shut down, and what Norfolk officials say about their different approach to supporting young readers.
   

2. Military Circle demolition moving forward in Norfolk; work begins in October (wtkr.com) — Norfolk is preparing to start demolition work at the long-vacant Military Circle Mall site in October, a process expected to last about 15 months. As crews clear the 74-acre property, the city is also using a state site-readiness grant to study infrastructure and redevelopment options, a key step toward deciding what ultimately replaces the mall on the city's east side.
   

3. Norfolk considers safety changes for Lafayette Boulevard (wtkr.com) — Norfolk officials are weighing a range of safety changes along Lafayette Boulevard after years of speeding complaints and more than 260 crashes, including fatal ones. Surveys of residents show strong support for traffic calming, better crossings, and bike and pedestrian improvements, with some quick fixes like speed-feedback signs and refreshed markings possible within the next year while longer-term redesigns are studied and funded.
   

4. The Association for The Study of African American Life and History on Another View (whro.org) — Norfolk is set to host the 111th annual ASALH conference later this month, bringing national attention to Black history and culture right to your backyard. Norfolk State University's Dr. Colita Fairfax joins ASALH president Dr. Karsonya Wise Whitehead on WHRO's "Another View" to preview the event and explain why it matters to local residents.
   

5. Travel restored on Granby St., East Admiral Taussig Blvd. and Mason Creek Rd. (wavy.com) — Drivers in Norfolk get some relief this Labor Day weekend as VDOT has fully reopened Granby Street, East Admiral Taussig Boulevard and Mason Creek Road after long construction closures tied to I-64 and tunnel projects. All lanes are now open, though officials warn there may still be occasional short-term closures and urge motorists to stay alert and follow work-zone signs.
   

📸 Around Norfolk

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • THANK YOU neighbors.
    On a recent post I made, looking a for "reliable, dependable small engine mechanic that could repair my electric start (gasoline powered) weed wacker… (Nextdoor Vinings Landing Marina)
  • Updating because it ran out my back door this morning.
    Hopefully it makes it home! Seemed on a mission to get back home. My son found this sweet baby outside limping, and brought them in. Has an air tag… (Nextdoor Bay View North)
  • Walmart posted a job opening for Stocking Team Associate in Norfolk. Apply here.
  • Food Lion posted a job opening for PT Customer Service Leader in Norfolk. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Norfolk here.

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: Times Square (Thank you Jean K. for sending it in!)
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!

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