Good morning, Hampton.

At a Waterside Marriott luncheon Tuesday, ODU economics professors presented the State of the Region report that showed record port tonnage nearing 27 million tons, strong hotel gains, and a defense budget above $900 billion while noting tariffs and a government shutdown raised risks for economic slowdown. The report warned that shifts in warfare—such as the rise of drones and limits in shipbuilding—could force Congress into action if economic pain persists.

Research from William and Mary’s Center for Conservation Biology shows that ospreys in Chesapeake Bay are reproducing too slowly to sustain their numbers due to starvation from a drop in their main food, menhaden—fishing by Virginia and Maryland watermen has sharply reduced bait since 2019. Data reveal that birds in high-salinity water average only 0.33 young per pair compared to the 0.8 needed to maintain the population.

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced a new barracks task force at Naval Air Station Oceana during an enlistment ceremony for 60 recruits, and the task force will draft a housing upgrade plan in 30 days—backed by over $1 billion in federal funds and including efforts to privatize housing in Hampton Roads. This move aims to improve conditions for junior enlisted troops after past reports of substandard barracks.

Virginia Energy launched an online platform called Energy Connect to help residents and businesses find energy-saving programs that can cut their electric bills.

The website matches user information with available tax credits, loans and direct assistance, and many incentives will soon expire.

Hampton City Council approved using eminent domain if needed to secure easements for a half-mile road project on Armistead Ave that will raise the road about four feet to reduce flooding and improve emergency response, with the $20 million project expected to take three years and begin in spring—ensuring it moves forward despite delayed negotiations with Home Depot.

Amtrak’s third daily train to Newport News is delayed until after the Long Bridge project is finished—likely after 2030—and a bus service will replace the lost train trips starting in January with stops in Norfolk and Newport News before heading to Washington DC.

The revised plan will maintain three trains per day to each city once construction is completed.

Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid

2-5 PM — The American Theatre — Hot-Buttered Popcorn & an all-new Silver Screen — Experience classic screwball comedies and stirring dramas on the big screen.

Sing & Smile with Art Rowe

3-4 p.m. — Hampton Virginia Aquaplex — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful hour of acoustic tunes and sing-alongs with local Navy Veteran and guitarist Art Rowe.

Midnight Rain: Live Taylor Swift Tribute

8-11 p.m. — The Vanguard Brewpub & Distillery — Cost varies — Experience your favorite Taylor Swift tunes in an intimate setting with Midnight Rain.

For the Culture Wine RnB Festival

4-10 p.m. — Hampton Roads Convention Center — $60.54 — Sip and celebrate with fine wines and 90s R&B vibes in a chic atmosphere.

Hampton Roads Philharmonic: October Classics

2:00 – 3:30 PM — The American Theatre — Ticket info not provided — Experience the rich sounds of familiar and new composers in an unforgettable afternoon of classical music.

Classic Movie Night - The Birds

2-3:30 p.m. — The American Theatre — Admission fee applies — Enjoy hot-buttered popcorn as you immerse yourself in the classic film ‘The Birds’ on the big screen.

Troy Breslow Live Performance

8-10:30 p.m. — Victorian Station “The Big Pink” — Ticket Info Not Provided — Enjoy heartfelt tunes from Virginia's own singer-songwriter Troy Breslow as he captivates with his guitar and lyrics.

Hampton CVB Halloween Speedfest

5-6:30 p.m. — Larry King Law's Langley Speedway — Ticket prices vary — Experience an exciting night of spooky racing featuring sprints and mini cups.

Howl-O-Woof Pup Parade and Costume Contest

12-3 p.m. — Oozlefinch Beers & Blending — Free entry — Enjoy a festive afternoon with pup costumes, trick-or-treating, and local food trucks.

Nekocon Anime Convention

12:00 PM – 11:59 PM — Hampton Roads Convention Center — Ticket information not provided — Experience Virginia’s longest running anime convention with performances, panels, and gaming.