Sept. 4, 2026

news@whro.org | 757-889-9312

Mayor Bobby Dyer (left) could face his former City Council colleague Sen. Aaron Rouse. (Photo by John-Henry Doucette)

John-Henry Doucette

Virginia Beach Reporter

Virginia Beach Mayor Bobby Dyer recently announced that he will seek the Republican nomination for Virginia Senate District 22 next year.

The 76-year-old mayor has led the city since winning a special election in 2018 and plans to remain in office while pursuing the Senate seat.

Dyer cited his frustration with partisan gridlock and a lack of state collaboration with local governments as his primary motivation for running.

The move sets up a potential high-profile matchup against incumbent Democratic Sen. Aaron Rouse, a former City Council colleague who previously considered challenging Dyer for mayor in 2020.

Read More

Paul Chin (left) helps Belinda Terry (center) with her code on HTML Day during an event hosted by 757 Tech on Aug. 8, 2026. (Photo by Ashley White)

Software development and programming enthusiast Kevin Griffin co-founded 757 Tech to build a collaborative, supportive technology hub in Hampton Roads. 

After noticing local tech professionals traveling to Richmond for networking, Griffin helped launch local meetups and conferences such as RevolutionConf and DevFest to keep learning opportunities close to home. 

Today, the organization offers specialized meetups covering artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and specific programming languages.

Read More

Author and illustrator Nikkolas Smith chats with fans during a book signing at Fort Monroe in Hampton on Aug. 26, 2026. (Photo by Vicki L. Friedman)

Internationally acclaimed "artivist" Nikkolas Smith returned to Hampton for a book signing at Fort Monroe, celebrating his roots at Hampton University where he first developed his blend of art and activism. 

His extensive career spans illustrating bestselling books, designing Marvel superhero figures, contributing to film concept art and launching major public art campaigns celebrating Black voices. 

Reflecting on his African heritage during an audience Q&A, Smith described it as a royal birthright that carries a “responsibility to continue a legacy of amazing accomplishments.”

Read More

WHRO classical host debuts an award-winning show on female musicians Read More

VIDEO: Norfolk mobile bookstore works to expand access to Black authors Watch here

Virginia’s economy expected to grow modestly by end of 2026, job losses still expected Read More

As millions of kids lose SNAP food benefits, free school meals are also at risk Read More

Local journalism is made
possible only because of
generous WHRO donors

Julius Ayo

Digital Producer

Thank you for being a part of the WHRO journalism community! If you benefited from this email, forward it to a friend. Was this newsletter forwarded to you? Sign up here to be one of the first people get the most important local news every weekday.