Business calendar: ODU’s economic forecast, Newport News State of the City and more

JAN. 28TUESDAY
Getting Found: A Strategy Workshop, 9-11 a.m., Centura College, 4455 South Blvd., Virginia Beach. The Hampton Roads Chamber is hosting a three-part marketing workshop series. This one is “Why does Google suck?” Industry experts will lead each workshop providing interactive experiences and ample time to meet other series participants, ask questions and dive into the practical application of each skill. These workshops are designed for small businesses, but medium to large businesses are also welcome to attend. The series is capped at 50 participants. Register at hrchamber.com.
Chamber Business Social, 5:30-7 p.m., Crowne Plaza Town Center, 4453 Bonney Road, Virginia Beach. The Hampton Roads Chamber is hosting a networking event with hors d’oeuvres and cash bar. Register at hrchamber.com.
JAN. 29
WEDNESDAY
Annual economic forecast, noon-2 p.m., Big Blue Room at the Chartway Arena, 4320 Hampton Blvd., Norfolk. Old Dominion University’s Dragas Center for Economic Analysis and Policy is hosting its annual economic forecast. As a new presidential administration takes shape in Washington, D.C., Americans await decisions that could have sweeping ramifications across the globe. Amid breaking news and speculation about what may come, economics professors Bob McNab and Vinod Agarwal are crunching the numbers and analyzing potential policy decisions that will impact the economic outlook of 2025. $75. Register at https://events.bizzabo.com/AEF25.
Strategies, Purpose, Progress: Succeeding in Business Series, 1-3 p.m., 11850 Merchants Walk, Suite 110, Newport News. The Peninsula Chamber is hosting Karen Witherspoon of Elevate Leadership. $0-$15. Register at virginiapeninsulachamber.com.

Shaping the Future of Air Travel, 4 p.m., Glass Light Hotel & Gallery, 201 Granby St., Norfolk. The Downtown 100 Young Professionals Board is hosting ark Perryman, president and CEO of the Norfolk Airport Authority. he shares insights into recent trends and future enhancements at Norfolk International Airport. Learn how these changes will impact the region and what opportunities lie ahead for travelers and businesses alike. $0-$25. Downtownnorfolk.org/about/dt100.
Virginia Maritime Association Northern Chapter Kickoff, 4-7 p.m., Association of the United States Army, 2425 Wilson Blvd., Arlington. The association is adding a fifth regional chapter. The event is the official kickoff for the Northern Virginia chapter, including Washington, D.C., and surrounding areas. Free. RSVP at VAmaritime.com/ChapterEvents.
Deadline for nomination Healthcare Heroes to Inside Business. Inside Business is accepting nominations for the 17th Annual Healthcare Hero Awards. This award is designed to honor local individuals, companies and organizations for their contributions to improving health care in Hampton Roads. Entries will be judged by an independent panel and honorees will be profiled in a special edition of Inside Business in print and online. There will also be a recognition event in their honor to be held on March 27. Submit a nomination at virginiamedia.com/healthcare-heroes/.
JAN. 30
THURSDAY
Virginia Maritime Association Maritime Mixer, 5-7:30 p.m., Chick’s Oyster Bar, 2143 Vista Circle, Virginia Beach. The association is hosting a networking event for the industry and the port. $55. Register at VAmaritime.com/Events.
Newport News State of the City, 5:30 p.m., Ferguson Center for the Arts, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News. The Peninsula Chamber is hosting Mayor Phillip Jones to summarize the city’s accomplishments and get a glimpse into its future. $55. Register at virginiapeninsulachamber.com.
FEB. 2
SUNDAY
Retail Therapy: A Women’s Wellness Retreat for You and Your Business, 4 p.m. Sunday to 2 p.m. Monday, Kingsmill Resort, 1010 Kingsmill Road, Williamsburg. The Retail Alliance is hosting a retreat with workshops led by experts in retail, wellness sessions with yoga, meditation and mindfulness, networking and fun. Eva DeVirgilis, award-winning playwright, actor and makeup artist, will be the keynote speaker. She is a vocal advocate for the empowerment of women and girls globally. $300-$375. Register at retailalliance.com.
FEB. 11
TUESDAY
Coffee Connection, 8-9 a.m., Peninsula Catholic High School, 600 Harpersville Road, Newport News. The Peninsula Chamber is hosting a networking event. $0-$15. Register at virginiapeninsulachamber.com.
FEB. 13
THURSDAY
How to Assist Your Employees (or Self) with Cancer Concerns, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., 11850 Merchants Walk, Suite 110, Newport News. The Peninsula Chamber is hosting Sarah Kingsley of the American Cancer Society for its Pink Bag Lunch. Lunch provided. $10-$15. Register at virginiapeninsulachamber.com.
FEB. 18
TUESDAY
Panel Discussion on the State of Our Trucking Industry, 7:30-9 a.m., Strome Entrepreneurial Center, Old Dominion University, 4821 W. 49th St., Norfolk. Hampton Roads Global Commerce Council is hosting the third event in the Supply Chain Summit Series, which will examine the state of our local trucking industry, its long-term direction and how it is evolving to meet the demands of shifting market conditions and unforeseen events. $35. Buy tickets at hrgcc.org/supply-chain-summit-series/.
FEB. 26
WEDNESDAY
Overcoming a Culture of Fear, noon to 1:30 p.m., online. The Workplace Inclusion Network, a program of the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities, is hosting a session on how fear manifests in workplace cultures, whether through hesitancy to address “uncomfortable” topics, fear of making mistakes or reluctance to challenge the status quo. Participants will engage in practical discussions on overcoming these barriers and creating environments where inclusion can thrive. Register at inclusiveva.org/programs/businesses/win/.
MARCH 5
WEDNESDAY
Chesapeake State of the City, noon to 2 p.m., Chesapeake Conference Center, 700 Conference Center Drive. The Hampton Roads Chamber is hosting Mayor Rick West to provide a recap of successes, updates and the agenda for the year to come in what typically is a sell-out, must-attend event. Register at hrchamber.com.
MARCH 8
SATURDAY
Peninsula SPCA’s Fur Ball, 5-11 p.m., Hampton Roads Convention Center, 1610 Coliseum Drive, Hampton. The Peninsula Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is hosting its annual fundraiser with the theme of “Nashville Nights.” Guests will enjoy an electric evening of cocktails, delicious food and dancing the night away with live music provided by local band Snackbar Jones. Live and silent auctions with mobile bidding. Pet guests are also welcome with the option to receive their own personal escort, participate in the popular Pet Parade and enjoy the Muttini Bar of dog treats. $125. ($45 per pet.) Buy tickets at https://one.bidpal.net/fb25/welcome.
MARCH 11
TUESDAY
30th Annual Hampton Roads Real Estate Market Review and Forecast, 2 p.m., Chartway Arena, 4320 Hampton Blvd., Norfolk. The E.V. Williams Center for Real Estate at Old Dominion University is hosting an update and forecast on various sectors of real estate in the region, including residential, office, retail, industrial and multifamily. Cocktail reception follows. $110. Register at odurealestate.vfairs.com.
MARCH 12
WEDNESDAY
Virginia Beach State of the City, noon to 2 p.m., Virginia Beach Convention Center, 1000 19th St. The Hampton Roads Chamber is hosting Mayor Bobby Dyer to provide a recap of successes, updates and the agenda for the year to come in what typically is a sell-out, must-attend event. Register at hrchamber.com.
MARCH 13
THURSDAY
Better Boundaries, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., 11850 Merchants Walk, Suite 110, Newport News. The Peninsula Chamber is hosting Stephanie Kalantarians, architect and principal of GuernseyTingle, for its Pink Bag Lunch. Lunch provided. $10-$15. Register at virginiapeninsulachamber.com.
MARCH 15
SATURDAY
Bourbon, Bacon, BBQ and Chocolate Showcase, 4-8 p.m., Chesapeake Conference Center, 700 Conference Center Drive. VenuWorks is hosting the inaugural showcase featuring a variety of bourbons alongside delicious bacon, barbecue and chocolate. Enjoy a live DJ, games, a special kid’s zone and culinary delights from Hampton Roads’ top restaurants. $20. Register at chesapeakeconference.com/bourbon-bacon-bbq-2025/.
First Citizen Gala, 5-9:30 p.m., Hampton Roads Convention Center, 1610 Coliseum Drive, Hampton. The Peninsula Chamber is recognizing its First Citizen in a black-tie optional event. $80. Register at virginiapeninsulachamber.com.
APRIL 4
FRIDAY
Norfolk State of the City, noon to 2 p.m., Hilton Norfolk/The Main, 100 E. Main St. The Hampton Roads Chamber is hosting Mayor Kenny Alexander to provide a recap of successes, updates and the agenda for the year to come in what typically is a sell-out, must-attend event. Register at hrchamber.com.
Please, send calendar items to [email protected].

Trump travels to visit disaster zones in North Carolina and California

President Trump, shown here standing with first lady Melania Trump, speaks to reporters at the White House before leaving for his trip to North Carolina and California on Jan. 24.

Pedro Ugarte/AFP via Getty Images

Pedro Ugarte/AFP via Getty Images

President Trump is taking the first trip of his term on Friday to North Carolina and California, visiting communities grappling with recovery from natural disasters. In Fletcher, N.C., Trump is receiving a briefing on recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene — and then meeting with families in Swannanoa.

Trump travels to visit disaster zones in North Carolina and California

President Trump, shown here standing with first lady Melania Trump, speaks to reporters at the White House before leaving for his trip to North Carolina and California on Jan. 24.

Pedro Ugarte/AFP via Getty Images

Pedro Ugarte/AFP via Getty Images

President Trump is taking the first trip of his term on Friday to North Carolina and California, visiting communities grappling with recovery from natural disasters. In Fletcher, N.C., Trump is receiving a briefing on recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene — and then meeting with families in Swannanoa.

Lovely country walk ending at ‘most spectacular tourist attraction’ best seen from January

Both the UK and Ireland are full of stunning countryside walks and one route in County Tipperary leads to Rock of Cashe, a spectacular historic site.Once the traditional seat of the kings of Munster, it was the location of the coronation of Brian Boru, the first High King of Ireland.Heritage Ireland dubs the Rock of Cashel “one of Ireland’s most spectacular and – deservedly – most visited tourist attractions”.The ‘High King Loop’, as the route is known, takes around two hours to complete and will take you through the Rock of Cashel, allowing you to explore both this historic site, and the surrounding beautiful countryside.The route is popular with bird-watchers, cyclists, and runners but can also be enjoyed as a more leisurely stroll. AllTrails say it’s best undertaken between January and October, making it a great hike to undertake sometime this year.The site has labelled a ‘moderately’ difficult route, adding that it is also suitable for dog-walkers, although they should be sure to keep their canine on a lead.Detailing the route walkers should take, the experts at AllTrails write: “Start in Cashel on Lower Gate Street/Square and head out the new tarmac pathway on the Golden Road. This will allow you to finish off the walk with the incredible views of Hore Abbey and The Rock of Cashel.”Those who have already enjoyed this walk shared their thoughts on the website, with one writing: “A well marked mostly paved trail that goes through the woods for about a mile and brings you through beautiful farm land.”Definitely would rate an easy flat trail if you aren’t into hiking this is a long beautiful scenic walk. I enjoyed my time even through the rain the whole way.”Another added: “Great easy country walk. Well used trail and well maintained. Great views of the Rock of Cashel plus beautiful forest section. Quiet country roads. You can divert off to the Abbey and the Castle if you wish.”The impressive Rock of Cashel is a cluster of medieval-era buildings. Although it dates back earlier, most of the structures still standing today date from the 12th and 13th centuries.Today, you can still see a round tower, high cross, Romanesque chapel, Gothic cathedral, abbey, Hall of the Vicars Choral, and a fifteenth-century Tower House.The site is mired in the history of Ireland, and the chapel, named Cormac’s Chapel for King Cormac Mac Carthaigh, contains the only surviving Romanesque frescoes in Ireland.The Rock of Cashel also holds significance in the mythology of the island, with local legends claiming that it originated in the Devil’s Bit, a mountain 20 miles north where St Patrick is said to have banished the Devil from a cave, resulting in the rock landing in Cashel.It’s also claimed to be the location at which St Patrick converted the King of Munster to Christianity.

Lovely country walk ending at ‘most spectacular tourist attraction’ best seen from January

Both the UK and Ireland are full of stunning countryside walks and one route in County Tipperary leads to Rock of Cashe, a spectacular historic site.Once the traditional seat of the kings of Munster, it was the location of the coronation of Brian Boru, the first High King of Ireland.Heritage Ireland dubs the Rock of Cashel “one of Ireland’s most spectacular and – deservedly – most visited tourist attractions”.The ‘High King Loop’, as the route is known, takes around two hours to complete and will take you through the Rock of Cashel, allowing you to explore both this historic site, and the surrounding beautiful countryside.The route is popular with bird-watchers, cyclists, and runners but can also be enjoyed as a more leisurely stroll. AllTrails say it’s best undertaken between January and October, making it a great hike to undertake sometime this year.The site has labelled a ‘moderately’ difficult route, adding that it is also suitable for dog-walkers, although they should be sure to keep their canine on a lead.Detailing the route walkers should take, the experts at AllTrails write: “Start in Cashel on Lower Gate Street/Square and head out the new tarmac pathway on the Golden Road. This will allow you to finish off the walk with the incredible views of Hore Abbey and The Rock of Cashel.”Those who have already enjoyed this walk shared their thoughts on the website, with one writing: “A well marked mostly paved trail that goes through the woods for about a mile and brings you through beautiful farm land.”Definitely would rate an easy flat trail if you aren’t into hiking this is a long beautiful scenic walk. I enjoyed my time even through the rain the whole way.”Another added: “Great easy country walk. Well used trail and well maintained. Great views of the Rock of Cashel plus beautiful forest section. Quiet country roads. You can divert off to the Abbey and the Castle if you wish.”The impressive Rock of Cashel is a cluster of medieval-era buildings. Although it dates back earlier, most of the structures still standing today date from the 12th and 13th centuries.Today, you can still see a round tower, high cross, Romanesque chapel, Gothic cathedral, abbey, Hall of the Vicars Choral, and a fifteenth-century Tower House.The site is mired in the history of Ireland, and the chapel, named Cormac’s Chapel for King Cormac Mac Carthaigh, contains the only surviving Romanesque frescoes in Ireland.The Rock of Cashel also holds significance in the mythology of the island, with local legends claiming that it originated in the Devil’s Bit, a mountain 20 miles north where St Patrick is said to have banished the Devil from a cave, resulting in the rock landing in Cashel.It’s also claimed to be the location at which St Patrick converted the King of Munster to Christianity.