Newport News is collecting memories of the Southeast Community: ‘We have a very interesting and unique history’

This journal won’t be tucked away in a drawer somewhere. It’ll be on the internet, for everyone to see.

Earlier this month, Newport News launched a community journal initiative asking people to share stories about the people, places, history and experiences that make the Southeast Community special. The project is focused on the Marshall-Ridley neighborhood.

When the journal is complete, it will be available online and in libraries and community centers for anyone who wants to read it.

“Newport News is a very diverse city and we have a very interesting and unique history with residents of all different backgrounds and perspectives,” said Sarah Bowman, a city communications specialist. “This community journal is a way to capture thoughts and memories and nostalgia.”

The project is part of the city’s larger branding initiative. Last year, the city hired Jacksonville-based North Star Place Branding and Marketing to conduct research to help it create a unified brand.

The city is releasing a new journal prompt each week until early May. The prompts ask residents to share stories such as their favorite memory of the Southeast Community. Respondents have the choice to remain anonymous and do not have to participate every week.

“This community journal is a great way to honor the past and to talk about the excitement people feel in the community,” Bowman said.

The Marshall-Ridley neighborhood is undergoing a large-scale revitalization effort as part of the federal government’s Choice Neighborhoods Initiative. The program seeks to transform neighborhoods by replacing distressed public housing complexes and changing the surrounding community by adding additional services, jobs and learning opportunities.

The journal project came about, in part, as the city was thinking about naming assets in the community such as buildings and streets as the work is completed, Bowman said. The city wants to honor the past with the names while looking toward the future.

To participate in the community journal visit https://northstarideas.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4HNR6H6ySrgaKYm.

Jessica Nolte, 757-912-1675, jnolte@dailypress.com