Good morning, Scoopers!

A quick shoutout this morning to Erin Rountree, who was selected as Suffolk’s new Assistant Director of Public Works. It’s one of those behind-the-scenes roles that helps keep things moving across the city, from stormwater and permits to mosquito control and development.

🌦️ Weather
🦅 Eagles 1, Bulldozers 0
🛠️ Harbor Freight Opens in Harbour View
🎧 Suffolk Dispatcher Earns Top Honor
🥜 Mr. Peanut Turns 110
📅 Upcoming Local Events

Let’s get into it 👇

Suffolk Scoop is a growing community newsletter featuring local news, events, and stories from around Suffolk. We’re inviting local businesses, organizations, and groups to be featured and share their story with local readers. Don’t own a business? That’s okay. Know one we should feature? Click here to fill out our Feature Request Form.

The News: Suffolk City Council voted down a proposal to rezone land off Sleepy Hole Road for a new 120-home subdivision. The developer made its case, but council members ultimately sided with neighbors and conservation advocates.

Why It Matters: The biggest issue was the land’s active Bald Eagle habitat. Residents also pointed to growing pressure on nearby roads and schools, saying the area is already feeling the strain and does not need another large development added to the mix.

👉 The Move: If you care about preserving Suffolk’s rural character, start paying attention to Planning Commission and City Council agendas. This vote was proof that public turnout still matters, and yes, matching shirts did not hurt.

Read More…

The News: Harbor Freight has opened a new store at 6540 Hampton Roads Parkway in Harbour View. The company said the location was expected to bring 25 to 30 jobs to the area.

Why It Matters: It gives North Suffolk another nearby option for tools, equipment, and home project supplies.

👉 The Move: If you’re a DIY person or contractor, this is one more useful stop close to home.

Read More…

The News: Senior Communications Operator A. Southerland was recognized as Suffolk’s Communications Operator of the Year and honored at the Hampton Roads Telecommunicators Banquet in Hampton.

Why It Matters: Dispatchers are often the first voice people hear in an emergency, and their work helps keep the community safe.

👉 The Move: It’s a nice shoutout for someone doing important work behind the scenes.

The News: Suffolk helped celebrate a pretty big birthday this week as Mayor Duman and students from Booker T. Washington Elementary honored Mr. Peanut’s 110th birthday.

Why It Matters: You really cannot get more Suffolk than this. It’s a fun local nod to one of the city’s most recognizable ties and gave students a chance to be part of it too.

👉 The Move: Chalk this one up as a light, very Suffolk kind of story. Salty, sweet, and oddly iconic.

Gourmet Burger Bistro is turning 2 years old, and they’re celebrating in a big way.

They’re hosting an anniversary event at their spot on East Washington Street with BOGO gourmet burgers, free gifts, and a full-on burger-eating contest.

The defending champ is coming back to protect the title, and the stakes are real this year. The winner walks away with free burgers for all of 2026 plus a trophy.

If you’re looking for something fun (and competitive) to do, this might be one of the most entertaining events in town.

📍 Gourmet Burger Bistro
📍 202 E. Washington St, Suffolk

The Retreat at Harbour Cove is hosting a community yard sale on Saturday, May 2, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Shoppers can expect items from multiple households, including clothing, tools, electronics, home décor, household items, and more. It all takes place at 1103 Elaina Place in Suffolk, with a rain date of May 3.

Great Dismal Swamp Safari – Suffolk Visitor Center – 9:30 AM

Basic Watercolor – Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts – 6:00 PM

Historic Suffolk Narrated Bus Tour – Suffolk Visitor Center – 2:00 PM

Whiskey & Wings – Outdoors at the Center – 6:00 PM

Blue Cowbell Debut – Sojourn Fermentory – 6:00 PM

Mini M’Art Fine Art Fundraiser – Suffolk Art Gallery – 6:30 PM

Coffee Vibes & 20th Anniversary – SunBlocked Tint Co. – 8:30 AM

Healthy Kids Day – Suffolk Family YMCA – 10:00 AM

Cultivate Your Curb Appeal – Johnson's Gardens – 10:00 AM

Post Game Celebration – AJ’s Downtown Dogs – 12:00 PM