Call Center Company in Norfolk, VA

NORFOLK, Va. — Members of the U.S. House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee held a hearing Tuesday at Norfolk State University to address growing concerns about the Trump administration’s proposed cuts to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

At the center of the discussion were workforce reductions that VA Secretary Doug Collins previously outlined. Earlier this year, Collins said the administration’s goal is to reduce the VA workforce by 15% — a cut that could affect more than 70,000 employees.

Secretary Collins has said that frontline health and patient care workers will not be compromised. He told senators last month that the proposal targets non-essential positions, and that reducing those roles would allow the VA to invest more in direct care. He added that staffing increases in recent years have not always led to improved service for veterans.

But lawmakers at Tuesday’s hearing said the cuts — both those already made and those still under consideration — risk undermining the quality of care and support veterans receive.

“You can’t run a healthcare facility without all of the positions, otherwise it wouldn’t be on the payroll,” said Congressman Bobby Scott (D-Va.). “You can’t run a hospital with some positions protected and not all.”

Scott and others cited data showing that more than 6,000 veterans have already lost federal jobs this year.

“They’re taking away veterans' healthcare, they’re firing veterans who transitioned from the military into federal service,” said Congressman Mike Thompson (D-Calif.).

“It’s demoralizing. It is harmful. It is harmful to veterans. It is harmful to our communities. And it’s harmful to families of veterans.”

Del. Jackie Glass (D-Norfolk), a Navy veteran, also participated in the event. She described the proposed cuts as “a threat to the rightful compensation and care for vets.”

“This administration has dropped the ball,” said Glass.

“They have threatened the mental health and well being of veterans and their families by intentional destabilization and a stunning lack of accountability.”

Press Secretary Pete Kasperowicz with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs responded to the concerns in a statement provided to 13News Now.

“VA is assessing staff levels across the entire department with the goal of implementing a reduction in force (RIF) that could affect as much as 15% of VA’s workforce, or about 70,000 people,” Kasperowicz wrote.

“We will accomplish this without making cuts to health care or benefits to veterans and VA beneficiaries. VA will maintain mission-essential jobs like doctors, nurses and claims processors and reduce administrators, advisors, and middle manager posts to eliminate duplicative, unnecessary layers of management and bureaucracy that do nothing to serve our Veterans and actually hinder our mission.”

Still, lawmakers at the NSU hearing expressed concerns that the staffing reductions would leave veterans waiting longer for services and remove critical roles across the system.

“When you fire people at the VA, that’s going to mean less healthcare providers, that's going to be longer wait lists and fewer services available,” Scott said.

No legislation was proposed during the hearing, but committee members said they plan to bring concerns back to Capitol Hill for further oversight and action.

Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

A Norfolk firefighter fired for off-duty medical marijuana use is challenging his dismissal as state law now protects employees using medical cannabis off the clock

The Virginian-Pilot

NORFOLK, Va. — For as long as he can remember, Brandon Beltaine wanted to be a firefighter. He grew up watching the 1991 film “Backdraft” and took pride in people who worked hard.

“There’s not people that work harder than those who are trying to save somebody’s life,” Beltaine said.

Beltaine attained that dream, completing the fire academy and started working as a Norfolk firefighter in 2018.

But Beltaine’s career is now in jeopardy. He was fired in 2023 for medical marijuana use off the job — a dismissal that would now be illegal under changes made to Virginia law last year.

In an effort to get his job back, Beltaine has filed a grievance with the city challenging his firing, which will be heard this week. He argues the city unfairly targeted him and he was protected by a policy the city changed after he informed them of his medical cannabis use.

Beltaine detailed a timeline of events related to his medical marijuana use and firing and provided The Virginian-Pilot with copies of Norfolk human resources polices related to substance abuse in place at those times.

Tackling key questions about whether a department can uphold a zero-tolerance drug and alcohol workplace policy that prohibits firefighter medical marijuana use, both on- and off-duty

According to the policy documents provided, medical marijuana use was not a fireable offense at the time Beltaine alerted the city to his medical marijuana use in 2022. Rather, updated policies show the city changed the policy to forbid medical marijuana in 2023 after interactions began between Beltaine and human resources workers. The documents show the policy was changed yet again in July 2024 to allow employee medical cannabis use after Beltaine’s firing.

The city declined to comment on Beltaine’s firing but argued the policy forbidding medical cannabis was communicated to employees in mid-2022, despite not becoming a written policy until May 2023.

Medical use

Marijuana is still a Schedule 1 substance under federal law, which forbids its manufacture, distribution, dispensation, and possession. However, the drug became quasi-legal in Virginia in 2021, when former Gov. Ralph Northam signed a law making possession of up to an ounce of marijuana legal. Still, retail sales of cannabis remain illegal under state law.

A separate medical marijuana program was initially established for epilepsy patients in 2015 and expanded to other conditions by the legislature in 2018, according to the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority. Patients can receive a certification from a medical practitioner and then purchase cannabis from a state-licensed dispensary.

Beltaine, who struggles with depression, anxiety and ADHD, said he self-medicated with alcohol for years before getting sober. Other treatment for his depression and anxiety, like the medicines called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, caused side effects like gastrointestinal issues and problems with thermoregulation.

After receiving his medical cannabis certificate in May 2022, Beltaine said the substance helped him relax in the evenings after a stressful shift at the fire station.

But issues with the city began almost immediately. In August 2022, after Beltaine emailed the city informing them of his medical card, a city official emailed back saying the cards would not be exempt from the city’s substance abuse policy, according to a city-authored timeline Beltaine provided to The Pilot.

The position came despite a city policy enacted in July 2021 that said medical cannabis was not a violation of the policy per se, but should be communicated to the city’s human resources department. Beltaine said he was following that policy by sending the August 2022 email notification.

Beltaine remained transparent about his medical marijuana use with the city but declined to stop, believing he was protected by the city policy.

In May 2023, Beltaine noted on a yearly physical that he used medical cannabis. After a positive drug test, the city instructed him to again stop using the drug. After declining, Beltaine was fired in October 2023 .

Also on a May 1, 2023-dated document, the city updated its substance abuse policy to include medical marijuana as a fireable offense. However, Beltaine said the old policy allowing medical marijuana was still online until at least May 12, 2023. The amended document cites federal drug laws and the possibility of losing federal grant money as reasons for disallowing medical cannabis.

In an emailed statement, the city said even though the policy was not changed in writing until May 1, 2023, it was effectively changed in mid-2022, around the time Beltaine first contacted human resources.

“Employees were advised that the policy document itself would be updated to reflect that the use of medical marijuana was not permissible,” according to the statement.

Beltaine did not dispute the city’s account, but again noted it took months for the written policy to be updated.

Evolving state law

State law on the issue was also evolving as Beltaine challenged city policy. A 2021 state law protected private sector employees from retaliation for medical marijuana use, but the law unintentionally left out public sector employees, according to bill sponsor Del. Dan Helmer, D-Fairfax. The General Assembly opted to close that loophole and passed legislation in 2024 that protected public sector employees from retaliation for medical cannabis use.

“Virginia law is clear in providing explicit employment protections for medical cannabis patients,” said Virginia NORML Executive Director JM Pedini in an email. “No employer is permitted to discharge, discipline, or discriminate against an employee for their lawful use of medical cannabis.”

After the law went into effect in July 2024, Norfolk changed its policy on medical marijuana yet again. The city confirmed it reverted back to asking medical cannabis patients to contact the city human resources department.

Other Hampton Roads cities also have policies that comply with the state law. In Chesapeake, fire department policy states that the city won’t discipline, discharge or discriminate against employees’ lawful use of cannabis oil as long as they have a valid written certification from a health care practitioner. Those who have a valid written certification are still subject to the city’s reasonable suspicion, post-accident and random testing procedures.

In Virginia Beach, the drug policy is similar, stating that the city will not discharge, discipline, or discriminate against an employee for the lawful use of cannabis as prescribed in the medical cannabis program. Portsmouth’s administrative manual also authorizes medical marijuana with written certification for treatment.

Kurt Detrick, district representative for the Virginia Professional Fire Fighters union, said he’s seen firsthand how medical cannabis can help reverse alcohol and drug abuse among his profession and aid with anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.

“There are some reasons for it that are helpful, and they’re being responsible with it, and Brandon was being responsible with it,” Detrick said.

Beltaine is still fighting for his job. He will attend a grievance hearing with the city on June 4. If he is unsuccessful, he said he plans to file a civil suit.

“They teach us that we’re supposed to have integrity,” Beltaine said about continuing his fight. “It’s one of our core values.”

Norfolk is known for its sprawling water views and outdoor activities, but when the weather or the mood calls for some indoor fun, we’ve got options! Whether you’re looking to sit down for a bite or a drink, explore some of Norfolk’s indoor attractions, create something new or shop for that perfect outfit or souvenir, you’ll have everything you need to spend a day indoors in Norfolk. Here are our picks for best things to do indoors in Norfolk.

During the beloved summer months, Norfolk can bring some hot and steamy days where there’s nothing better than a light meal and place to cool off. For lunch or dinner, opt for fresh, local seafood at A.W. Shucks, or meander into Waterside District, where a plethora of foodie options are available with a view of the Elizabeth River. Dig in to creamy gelato at Strawberry Fields, where flavors are made fresh daily, then stop by Mermaid Winery and catch a buzz with a refreshing flight of white wines or visit COVA Brewing Company for an iced latte or cold beer.

Looking to get cozy during a cold or rainy day? Try some of our favorite comfort food restaurants! Indulge in authentic ramen at Alkaline, grab made-from-scratch soups and rosemary biscuits at The Stockpot Norfolk, warm up with the spices of Indian Chaat street food at Tamarind or take a seat at Grilled Cheese Bistro with one of their gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. Foodie tip: Enhance your grilled cheese with an order of fresh tomato bisque.

Discover Norfolk’s maritime history at the Hampton Roads Naval History Museum located inside Nauticus on the second floor, peruse paintings, dolls and glass art at the Barry Art Museum, view a permanent collection of objects representing 30 countries at the Hermitage Museum & Gardens, or explore over 30,000 original works of art that span more than 5,000 years at Chrysler Museum of Art. All venues offer free admission every day. New for 2025: explore the mind-blowing new space at the Perry Glass Studio.

Later in the day, you can catch live music at The NorVA, named the No. 1 concert venue in the country by a 2013 Rolling Stone readers’ poll. Or, you can watch local artists shine while enjoying a tasty craft beer at Smartmouth Brewing Company’s warehouse entertainment space. Check out the latest musical, comedy and theater performances at some of Norfolk’s top venues including Chrysler Hall, Harrison Opera House, Attucks Theatre, Wells Theatre or Little Theatre of Norfolk.

If you’re wanting to get active, try Latitude Climbing + Fitness, where adults can participate in bouldering and yoga while kiddos can tire themselves out in the kids’ corner or throughout the gym with your supervision.

Finally, kick back and relax while watching a Norfolk Admirals hockey game at Scope Arena, or enjoy an Indie film at the NARO Expanded Cinema.

Feeling creative? Make your way to the Chrysler Museum’s Perry Glass Studio for a glass blowing class, or catch a free demonstration every Tuesday through Sunday at noon. If playing with fire isn’t your thing, paint and decorate your very own Norfolk mermaid at the Mermaid Factory, or get your hands dirty throwing clay at All Hands Pottery.

Treat yourself to unique shopping at Selden Market, a historic indoor arcade where you will find a mix of local businesses that specialize in everything from handmade leather goods and jewelry to soy candles and streetwear fashion. Across the street, be sure to check out MacArthur Center mall, offering a full movie theater for your entertainment.

Head to Ghent where you’ll find a lovely collection of locally owned shops. Texture is great for gifts, baby items, home decor, women’s clothing and accessories. Decorum Furniture has all the home furnishings you need, plus a fantastic gift shop with unique wares. Kitsch is the place to go for locally and regionally made jewelry, wall art, greeting cards, accessories, baby items and decor. Less Than inspires us to put a green foot forward with their eco-friendly and sustainable home products. White Rabbit is the go-to for secondhand children’s and baby clothing, plus brand new kid gifts. Le Marche is a French-forward boutique with plates and serving ware, home decor, child and baby items and gourmet chocolates and nibbles.

Learn More

Learn More

Learn More

Learn More

NORFOLK, Va. – The flagship of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group returned to its homeport of Norfolk, Virginia on June 1, following an eight-month deployment to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operations.

The strike group, which departed for deployment in September 2024, consisted of USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), Ticonderoga-class cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG 64), Arleigh Burke-class destroyers USS Stout (DDG 55) and USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 28, and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 with nine embarked squadrons.

While sailing across Europe and the Middle East, the strike group conducted a wide range of missions, including exercises with NATO Allies and combat operations in the Red Sea.

“The performance of every Sailor and asset in our strike group has been nothing short of exceptional,” said Rear Adm. Sean Bailey, commander of HSTCSG. “I am immensely proud of my team. They have repeatedly proven time and again that they are warfighters who stand ready for anything. As we return home, it is truly gratifying to reunite our Sailors with their families and friends who have supported them throughout this journey.”

The strike group operated in the North Sea during NATO’s Neptune Strike 24-2 and supported maritime and air presence operations with ships from Portugal, Norway, and Italy. Italian frigate ITS Carabiniere (F 593) also deployed alongside the strike group during operations in Europe.

Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group made port calls to Norway, Sweden, Finland, Germany, Spain, France, Croatia and Greece while deployed to the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations, promoting peace through strength.

On Feb. 1, while operating in support of U.S. Africa Command from the Red Sea, the strike group supported a large-scale airstrike and delivered 124,000 pounds of ordnance against ISIS-Somalia operatives.

“Throughout this deployment, our aviators showed immense proficiency and professionalism while striking Houthi targets across Yemen and defending the strike group and merchant vessels from threats,” said Capt. Leslie Mintz, commander of CVW-1. “I could not be prouder of the dedication and hard work of all the maintainers, ordnance handlers, administrative, and logistics support for their work keeping our aircraft flying, aviators safe, and ordnance ready to drop around the clock.”

In March, the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group led initial strikes against Iran-backed Houthi targets in Yemen during U.S. Central Command’s Operation Rough Rider. The strike group launched Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles and precision airstrikes for more than 50 days, conducting continuous operations to degrade Houthi capabilities and disrupt threats to commercial shipping.

“These warrior Sailors demonstrated superb grit for more than eight months,” said Capt. Chris Hill, commanding officer of USS Harry S. Truman. “Even in the face of significant challenges, they persevered, never giving up when their nation needed them. It’s been an honor to serve alongside such dedicated professionals and to take them home to their families.”

During the deployment, the Harry S. Truman strike group completed more than 13,000 sorties and 25,000 flight hours, and the ships sailed over 240,000 nautical miles combined.

The strike group’s mission is to conduct prompt and sustained combat operations at sea and maintain a forward presence through sea control and power projection capabilities.

For more information, visit DVIDS at https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/CVN75.

U.S. 2nd Fleet, reestablished in 2018 in response to the changing global security environment, develops and employs maritime ready forces to fight across multiple domains in the Atlantic and Arctic in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied, and partner interests.

For more U.S. 2nd Fleet news and photos, visit facebook.com/US2ndFleet, https://www.c2f.usff.navy.mil/, X - @US2ndFleet, and https://www.linkedin.com/company/commander-u-s-2nd-fleet.

NORFOLK, Va. — The USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) has finally returned to Naval Station Norfolk Sunday, marking a long-awaited homecoming for the aircraft carrier and its crew after an extended overseas deployment. Families, friends, and fellow service members gathered at the pier under sunny skies as the ship came into view just after sunrise.

The Truman Carrier Strike Group had been deployed for nearly nine months, operating primarily in the Mediterranean Sea and the Middle East in support of joint operations, regional security, and freedom of navigation missions. The deployment was originally scheduled for six months but was extended due to shifting global security dynamics and heightened tensions in the region.

For months, the strike group fought against Iran-backed Houthi rebels in the Red Sea, at one point launching airstrikes for more than 50 days to stop threats to commercial shipping.

For the thousands of sailors on board and their families, the return home was emotional. There were creative signs, kisses and more than a few tears.

"It's just going to be like 20,000 pounds off their shoulders, and for families too," said Debbie Johnston, whose son, Lt. Brandon Dedmon, was on board. Johnston and her husband drove from Oklahoma to be there for his return from his second deployment but his first with the Navy; he was previously in the Air Force.

"I'm ready to see my son and give him a hug," she added.

This deployment was especially hard on the Moser family.

"It's been really hard, because I'm on sea duty myself," said Lt. Com. Danielle Moser, wife of Nicholas Moser, serving on board the Truman.

This is their seventh deployment since they've been together, but the first since they had children.

"I'm just so excited for him to see them," she said. "My son wasn't even walking when he left. He was a baby."

The time at sea wasn't without challenges. The Truman saw its deployment extended and lost three fighter jets to the Red Sea. The ship also crashed into a merchant vessel during the deployment, causing its commanding officer to be relieved.

"It was certainly a long challenging deployment across the board and pretty unique for my entire career," said Rear Adm. Sean Bailey, commander of the strike group. He added the losses and the collision with another vessel will be investigated and lessons learned.

"We are a learning organization. Not only in the strike group, but the Navy at large."

Capt. Chris Hill, interim commanding officer for the Truman, said the sailors rose to the occasion despite challenges.

"I mean these sailors, day in, day out, they did not cower. They did not fall back. They just kept fighting and fighting, and it was just eye-watering. I'm just super proud of everybody."

Leaders said this level of combat is not always seen for a Navy ship and will help prepare for future missions.

"This level of combat is informative for the future," Bailey said. 'It helps prepare us for what it will evolve to operate a contested maritime environment with limited ability to maneuver. It helps us to learn tactics and techniques necessary for any future fight. In many regards this is considered a rehearsal or at least a way to help develop us so that we are better prepared for what comes next."

The Truman’s return comes as part of a planned rotation and will now undergo a post-deployment maintenance period while the crew gets a much-deserved reprieve.