Torrance J. Archie has been appointed Newport News director of parks and recreation. He brings more than 25 years of experience in parks and recreation, community engagement and strategic innovation, including 18 years with the County of Henrico. Archie’s responsibilities include overseeing the city’s extensive network of parks, recreational facilities, athletic programs, youth and family services and community events. During his tenure with Henrico County, Archie served in a variety of leadership roles, including assistant divisional director (community operations), recreation manager, recreation coordinator II and senior recreation coordinator. A Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) Archie holds a Bachelor of Science degree in education (recreation, parks and tourism) from Virginia Commonwealth University and an Associate of Arts degree in general studies from Daytona Beach Community College.
Tyrome “Ty” D. Alexander, MBA, PHR, PSHRA-SCP, SHRM-SCP has been appointed Newport News director of human resources. A high-impact leader with more than 20 years of experience in human resources management, employee and labor relations, conflict resolution and organizational strategy, Alexander will oversee all human resources operations for the city’s workforce and lead initiatives to enhance employee engagement, streamline processes and advance Newport News as an employer of choice. Alexander most recently served as director of human resources for the City of Richmond. With additional leadership roles at Impact Community Action, Columbus Metropolitan Library and The Ohio State University, Alexander brings a proven track record of driving strategic initiatives, fostering inclusive workplaces and balancing organizational goals with the needs of employees. Alexander holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Ohio Dominican University and a bachelor’s degree in political science from The Ohio State University.
Newport News city leaders volunteered at The Market at THRIVE Peninsula as part of the Stock the Shelves Food Drive. Representatives from city council, the city manager’s office, the office of the city clerk, the mayor’s office, the office of the city attorney and communications helped distribute more than 1,000 pounds of food to local families in one evening. The Market, which opened in November 2023 in partnership with Food Lion, is the region’s first free grocery store. Open six days a week, it is expected to serve 35,000 food-insecure residents this year—70 percent of whom live in Newport News.
Virginia Peninsula Community College (VPCC) and the Virginia Living Museum (VLM) formed an alliance built around the two institutions’ love for alligators. VLM is home to many species of animal and plant life native to the Chesapeake Bay watershed, including Newt, a female American Alligator, which VPCC has adopted. Newt serves as an educational ambassador, helping students and community members learn about alligator biology, conservation and the important role these predators play in their ecosystems. Shown here (from left) are Rebecca Kleinhample, VLM executive director; Dr. Towuanna Porter Brannon, VPCC president; Newt; Michelle Shonk, VPCC creative communication services manager and alum who spearheaded the sponsorship idea; and Gillie, the Gator, VPCC’s mascot.
Angela F. Reason, Newport News Circuit Court clerk, has been appointed to the Virginia Access to Justice Commission by Chief Justice S. Bernard Goodwyn of the Supreme Court of Virginia. She holds the position specifically reserved for a trial court clerk on the statewide commission. The Supreme Court of Virginia established the Virginia Access to Justice Commission in September 2013 to promote equal access to justice, with a primary focus on the civil legal needs of Virginia residents. Reason brings extensive experience in court administration and a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face when navigating the legal system. Her appointment reflects the Supreme Court’s recognition of her valuable perspective and the vital role trial court clerks play in ensuring accessible and efficient justice delivery throughout Virginia.
Charvālla West, president and CEO of United Way of the Virginia Peninsula, has been honored as a 2025 Change Maker by the Inner Peace Coalition. The Change Maker Award is presented to women leaders who have made an exemplary difference in their local community or who have been the first to blaze a trail in their industry.
The Salvation Army held its 10th annual golf tournament at Kiln Creek Golf Club in October. Participating in the tournament and seen on the Oyster Pointer-sponsored hole were golfers H. W. (Chip) and Tamzen Trieshmann. Proceeds from the golf tournament will be used to benefit community outreach programs. Presenting sponsors of the event were Dominion Energy, North River Construction, Haywood Floor Covering and Wolf Contractors.
