NORFOLK, Va. — The 2026 Shamrockin’ in Ghent, St. Patrick’s Day Block Party is on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.. This Hope House Foundation event is presented
Press Release
ARLINGTON, Va. — The Navy League of the United States has officially opened registration for Sea-Air-Space 2026, the largest global maritime expo in North America. The event once again takes place at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, MD, from April 19-22, 2026, with the annual STEM Expo kicking off on April 19.
Sea-Air-Space, hosted by the Navy League of the United States, remains the foremost gathering for maritime and defense professionals in the United States, addressing the latest advancements in defense technology and real-time strategic updates. More than 400 businesses who play vital roles in the maritime domain from around the world, ranging from trending startups to global Fortune 500 companies, are set to exhibit.
Sea-Air-Space is not a trade show; it is a strategic convening,” said Mike Stevens, CEO of the Navy League of the United States and the 13th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy. “It is where government and industry leaders engage candidly, challenge assumptions, and build the partnerships required to outpace evolving threats and secure the maritime domain.”
In addition to the robust exhibitor presence and keynote speakers from top military and industry leaders, the fourday conference will feature topical and thought-provoking panel discussions, hands-on demonstrations and networking opportunities designed to drive meaningful engagement and knowledge sharing.
New programming for SAS 2026 includes:
Military-Government Shipbuilding Strategy — Operationalizing Naval Power: To project power and protect
by Southern Bank. The event is free and open to the public and will take place on Colley Avenue in Norfolk’s historic Ghent district between Shirley and Gates Avenues. The event will benefit Hope House Foundation and will include musical performances by The Fighting James-
ons, and Tidewater Pipes and Drums.
Shamrockin’ in Ghent was previously called the Greening of Ghent. Hope House Foundation is proud to keep this long standing tradition going in our community.
Hope House Foundation is a local
national interests, the U.S. Navy must be equipped with the right assets, personnel and logistical capabilities. This new panel at SAS 2026 focuses on defining strategic requirements, optimizing force structure, and ensuring that military planning drives industrial production.
Revitalizing Maritime Industry: MARAD, Workforce, and Commercial Fleet Expansion: This session explores the industrial and commercial maritime revitalization efforts embedded in the SHIPS for America Act and recent NDAAs. It focuses on the Maritime Administration (MARAD), U.S. shipyards and the broader commercial fleet.
Fleet Forward: Operationalizing America’s Maritime Power Through Numbered Fleets: This panel will explore how the U.S. Navy’s numbered fleets are executing the CNO’s directives under the “America First” maritime strategy. From the Indo-Pacific to the Atlantic, fleet commanders are aligning operations with national priorities—enhancing readiness, projecting power and defending sea lanes vital to American prosperity.
Restoring America’s Maritime Dominance: Policy, Cargo Preference, and Strategic Sovereignty: Last year, the executive order on Restoring America’s Maritime Dominance introduced sweeping policy changes, including the development of the Maritime Action Plan (MAP). Experts will examine the strategic role of Cargo Preference in national security, the regulatory landscape shaping U.S.-flag shipping, and how coordinated federal action is reshaping the maritime industrial base.
Sea-Air-Space 2026 will also feature two staple events:
Transition Connection: a hiring fair for transitioning service members, military spouses and members of the defense community
Gaming to Win: A Live Wargaming Demonstration, featuring top wargame designers and hands-on participation, followed by expert-led discussions on operational decision-making.
Sea-Air-Space is open to active-duty military, federal government employees, defense contractors, and maritime professionals. Early registration is encouraged to secure participation in this premier event. To learn more and register, visit www.seaairspace.org.
About the Navy League of the United States: The Navy League of the United States, founded in 1902 with the support of President Theodore Roosevelt, is a nonprofit civilian, educational, and advocacy organization that supports America’s sea services: the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and U.S.-flag Merchant Marine. Through national and local programs, the Navy League of the United States provides a powerful voice to educate the public and Congress on the importance of our sea services to our nation’s defense, well-being, and economic prosperity. The Navy League provides support to our sea services personnel and their families and youth programs, such as the Naval Sea Cadet Corps, Junior ROTC, and Young Marines, that expose young people to the values of our sea services. For more information, go to www.navyleague.org
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Norfolk Botanical Garden’s 3rd annual Diversity Art Gallery now open through March 22
Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. — Norfolk Botanical Garden (NBG) is hosting its third annual Diversity Gallery, open now through Sunday, March 22, 2026. Established by the Garden’s President’s Council on Inclusion and Diversity, the exhibition is a community-driven initiative celebrating the region’s artistic voices.
This year, NBG partnered with the Barry Arts Center in downtown Norfolk to assist with curating the show. The exhibition features nearly 40 artists and more than 100 works of art representing the diverse and vibrant Hampton Roads community.
One artist will be selected as the presenting artist for next year’s gallery and will receive expanded exhibition space and inclusion in print marketing materials.
A public reception and artist meet-andgreet will be held Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Baker Hall Visitor Center. The event is included with Garden admission.
As a Virginia Historic Landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Norfolk Botanical Garden has a rich history rooted in resilience and dedication. Today, the garden honors the 220 African American Works Progress Administration workers
who, in the late 1930s, cleared dense vegetation and planted the first azaleas. Their efforts made them the garden’s first curators and laid the foundation for the landscape enjoyed today.
About Norfolk Botanical Garden: Norfolk Botanical Garden represents an oasis of more than 65 themed gardens encompassing 175 beautiful acres. From stunning plant collections to WOW - World of Wonders: A Children’s Adventure Garden, this diverse natural beauty can be explored by tram, boat, or walking tours. The Garden is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, recognized as a Virginia Historic Landmark, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated a Virginia Green attraction. It is managed by Norfolk Botanical Garden, Inc. and supported by the City of Norfolk. The mission of Norfolk Botanical Garden is to immerse visitors in a world of beauty, lead through environmental action and inspire through education and connection to nature. Admission is $21.00 for adults, $19.00 for seniors and military, $16.00 for ages 3-12, 2 and under are free. Explore our reduced admission programs: Norfolk Power Up and Museums for All and voted #3 Best Botanical Garden in the U.S. through Newsweek. For more information, visit www.norfolkbotanicalgarden.org
Free fares on HRT for Transit Equity Day Feb. 9
Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. — Transit is for everyone.
That’s why Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) is offering free fares on Monday, Feb. 9 to commemorate Transit Equity Day.
The day recognizes transit rider and civil-rights icon Rosa Parks, whose birthday is Feb. 4. HRT will provide free bus, light rail, ferry, OnDemand ridesharing and Paratransit services on the Monday following her birthday, which this year is Feb. 9.
The day also is a reminder of the vital role of transit in the economic prosperity of Hampton Roads. Reliable and efficient transit connects riders to jobs while improving access to healthcare, retail, recreation, education and workforce training.
“HRT is committed to treating all customers with the best possible transit experience every day, to every customer,” said William E. Harrell, President and CEO of HRT. “By continuing to offer free fares on this day for the fifth straight year, we honor the legacy of Rosa Parks and her impact on transit agencies around the nation.”
In addition to free fares, bus headlights will remain on all day to symbolize the light Parks provided. Every HRT bus also will have a reserved front seat with a small sign to honor her act of courage that ultimately helped make transit available for everyone. About HRT: HRT’s mission is to connect Hampton Roads with transportation solutions that are reliable, safe, efficient and sustainable. For more information on transit services, visit gohrt.com.
(ARTIST CREDIT: CHRIS GREEN)
Press Release
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — John Legend brings “An Evening of Songs & Stories” to the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts in Virginia Beach, VA on Thursday, April 9 at 8 PM. Legend’s live show will feature intimate renditions of his greatest hits (“All of Me,” “Ordinary People,” “Tonight”) and fan favorites from throughout his 13-time Grammy-winning body of work built over 20+ years—woven together with fascinating and unexpected stories from his life and career.
Tickets for John Legend — An Evening of Songs & Stories are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com or by visiting the Sandler Center box office located at 201 Market Street, Virginia Beach, VA 23462.
John Legend is an EGOT-winning, critically acclaimed, multiplatinum artist and producer who has garnered 13 Grammy® Awards, an Academy Award®, a Golden Globe® Award, a Tony® Award and four Emmy® Awards, among others. Legend is one of only nineteen people in the prestigious EGOT club—a feat that places him among the most versatile entertainers in history. From recording studios to Broadway stages, from film sets to television screens, he’s proven himself a creative force who transcends boundaries and redefines what it means to be a modern artist.
Legend has released eleven albums throughout his career: Get Lifted (2004), Once Again (2006), Evolver (2008), Wake Up! (with The Roots) (2010), Love in the Future (2013), Darkness and Light (2016), A Legendary Christmas (2018), Bigger Love (2020), LEGEND (2022), LEGEND (Solo Piano Version) (2023) and My Favorite Dream (2024).
After releasing the 20th anniversary digital deluxe version of his Grammy® -winning debut album, Get Lifted—featuring new remixes and collaborations with artists including Tems, Simi, Killer Mike, and Lil Wayne—Legend launched his “Get Lifted 20th Anniversary World Tour” in May. The North American leg kicks off this August, bringing his acclaimed debut album back to the stage for a new generation of fans. Legend’s influence extends to live performance, including his recent “An Evening with John Legend: A Night of Songs and Stories” tour in 2024. On screen, he delivered a stunning performance as Jesus in NBC’s Jesus Christ Superstar Live in
Concert (2018), earning an Emmy® nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor and winning an Emmy® as a producer for Outstanding Variety Special (Live). Legend joined THE VOICE as a coach for Season 16 (2019) and has returned for several seasons, most recently completing Season 27. Legend will return to the red chair for Season 29.
Beyond music, Legend is a visionary producer and storyteller. Alongside partners Mike Jackson and Ty Stiklorius, he co-founded Get Lifted Film Co., which has created a wide range of acclaimed projects across major networks and streaming platforms. Recent highlights include the Emmy®-winning HBO documentary 1000% ME: GROWING UP MIXED, Paramount’s LOUDMOUTH, and Netflix’s hit series RHYTHM & FLOW. Upcoming proj-
ects include NBC/Peacock’s BEFORE I LET GO, inspired by Kennedy Ryan’s best-selling novel; The War & Treaty, based on the lives of Black country music stars Michael and Tanya Trotter; and the Broadway musical Soul Train and off-Broadway play Duke & Roya. Get Lifted’s storytelling expertise also extends to publishing through Get Lifted Books, which champions diverse voices with recent releases including Dr. Rae WynnGrant’s memoir, Wild Life, and basketball legend Candace Parker’s book, The Can-Do Mindset.
Expanding his entrepreneurial footprint, Legend launched his self-care brand, Loved01, in 2023, to bring consumers gentle but powerful skincare formulas at affordable prices. In 2024, he and his wife, Chrissy Teigen, introduced Kismet, a dog lifestyle
brand offering premium food and accessories for modern dog families, which is available online and at Chewy.com.
About The Sandler Center for the Performing Arts: The Sandler Center opened on November 3, 2007 and is managed by Oak View Group. With 1,308 seats and a soaring glass façade, the building is located in the heart of Virginia Beach’s Town Center, a hub for cultural entertainment. With local and international talent visiting the Sandler Center, performances are perfect for audiences of all ages. Patrons will experience an
Easy bites for the big game
By Family Features
Source: Duda Farm Fresh Foods
Whether you’re tailgating with friends or hosting a watch party at home, every football fan needs a game plan to crunch, dip and cheer their way through opening kickoff, halftime and right down to the final play of the game.
Some of the best game day grub is hearty and savory but adding layers of flavor and texture can take recipes to the next level. For example, these Burger Bowls feature all the classic ingredients of a great burger, just without the bun. A tasty option for gluten-free guests or those who are cutting carbs, the bowls are made with Dandy Iceberg Lettuce from Duda Farm Fresh Foods, which boasts a legacy of quality, innovation and consistency in fresh produce cultivation since 1926.
Pulled pork, another tailgating treasure, gets an instant upgrade with the crunch of a fresh coleslaw topper and zesty pickled celery and jalapenos on the side. The winning play is to use crisp, fresh celery for the best flavors and a satisfying crunch with every bite. Since celery is 95% water and high in fiber, it leaves fans feeling comfortably full and ready to root for their favorite team.
This season, keep your snacks fresh and healthy while winning prizes like product coupons and gift cards to stock up for the next game through the Dip It to Win It Sweepstakes. Visit dudafresh.com to learn more and find additional game day recipes.
Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Pickled Celery and Jalapenos Recipe courtesy of The Adventure Bite Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 10 hours
Servings: 9-10
4 1/2 pounds pork shoulder or Boston butt
26 ounces sweet and spicy barbecue sauce
1/2 tablespoon garlic
1/2 tablespoon fresh cracked black pepper
fresh sandwich buns
Dandy Celery, cut and pickled
jalapenos
coleslaw (optional)
potato salad (optional)
baked beans (optional)
Place pork in slow cooker.
Mix barbecue sauce, garlic and pepper. Pour over pork shoulder. Cook on low 8 1/2-10 hours or high 6-7 hours.
Shred meat and serve on buns with pickled celery and jalapenos. Top with coleslaw, if desired. Serve with potato salad or baked beans, if desired.
Burger Bowls Recipe courtesy of Casa de Crews Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Burger Bowls:
2 cups French fries, homemade or frozen
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small yellow onion, diced
1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Dandy Iceberg Lettuce, shredded
2-3 Roma tomatoes, diced
pickle chips or spears, chopped
cheddar cheese, shredded Burger Sauce:
1/3 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or yellow mustard
1 tablespoon pickle juice
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
To make burger bowls: Cook French fries according to package directions.
In medium skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add onion and saute until translucent, 5-7 minutes. Add ground beef to skillet, breaking up meat with spatula. Add Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper; brown until cooked through. Drain and discard excess liquid and grease.
To make burger sauce: In jar, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle juice, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder and paprika well to combine.
Assemble bowls with layer of shredded lettuce, 3-4 ounces ground beef, diced tomatoes, pickles, cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup fries.
Drizzle with burger sauce and mix well.
Tip: Burger sauce can be made in advance and stored in refrigerator in jar with airtight lid.
Win your watch party with a fan favorite dip
By Family Features
From the pregame party to kickoff and the final whistle, game day hosts know savory snacks are the key to victory.
Celebrate the big game this season with a simple yet tasty spin on a football staple with this 7-Layer Game Day Dip. Featuring layers of refried beans, mashed avocados and seasoned sour cream topped with cheese, tomatoes, scallions and black olives, you can tackle a winning spread in next to no time. Visit Culinary.net to find more strategies for serving victorious game day recipes.
7-Layer Game Day Dip
Recipe adapted from Love & Lemons
Prep time: 20 minutes
Servings: 12
1 can (16 ounces) refried beans
3/4 cup salsa
2 avocados
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
16 ounces sour cream
3 tablespoons taco seasoning
1 1/2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
1 tomato, diced
1 bunch scallions, chopped
1 can (2 1/4 ounces) sliced black olives, drained
tortilla chips, for serving
In medium bowl, stir refried beans and 1/2 cup salsa. In separate medium bowl, mash avocados with remaining salsa. Add bell peppers and lime juice; stir to combine. In third medium bowl, stir sour cream and taco seasoning.
To assemble, spread refried bean mixture in bottom of baking dish. Spread avocado mixture evenly on top then spread sour cream mixture. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese then top with diced tomatoes.
Top dish with scallions and black olives. Serve with tortilla chips.
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Understanding cardiovascular disease risk factors: Numbers to know in 2026
By Family Features
Source: American Heart Association
Taking care of your heart with healthy behaviors may be at the top of your wellness priority list already, and there may be good news about the effects of adhering to expert recommendations.
New information from the American Heart Association’s 2026 Heart Disease & Stroke Statistics Update shows deaths from heart disease and stroke are on the decline. However, rates continue to climb for high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity — all of which are health risk factors that contribute to cardiovascular disease.
Following expert guidance can be your prescription for better health as 80% of heart disease and stroke is preventable. To help maintain and improve your cardiovascular health,
consider following the American Heart Association’s Life’s
Essential 8, which is a set of four health behaviors (eat better, be more active, quit tobacco and get healthy sleep) and four health factors (manage weight, control cholesterol, manage blood sugar and manage blood pressure).
In the United States, optimal Life’s Essential 8 scores could prevent up to 40% of annual all-cause and cardiovascular disease deaths among adults.
Consider these highlights from the statistics update:
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S. and stroke is the No. 4 leading cause of death.
Together, heart disease and stroke accounted for more than a quarter of all deaths in the U.S. in 2023.
Cardiovascular diseases, including all types of heart disease and stroke, claim more lives in the U.S. each year than all forms of cancer and accidental deaths — the Nos. 2 and 3 causes of death — combined.
On average, every 34 seconds, someone died of cardiovascular disease in 2023.
On average, about two people died of heart disease every 3 minutes in the U.S. in 2023.
On average in 2023, someone died of stroke every 3 minutes, 14 seconds in the U.S.
Nearly half of U.S. adults now have high blood pressure.
Nearly 29.5 million U.S. adults have diagnosed diabetes.
About 50% of U.S. adults have obesity or severe obesity, and 28.1% of youth ages 2-19 have obesity.
Only 1 in 4 U.S. adults meets national physical activity guidelines. Only 1 in 5 U.S. youths ages 6-17 are physically active for 60 minutes or more every day of the week.
To learn more about how to reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, visit heart.org.
