Virginia Beach Local Pulse

Good morning, this is Virginia Beach Local Pulse for Thursday, May 29. We start today with a look at breaking news across our city. Overnight, fire crews responded to a serious apartment fire on Dodson Court. One person has died and four others are displaced. Our thoughts are with the affected families, and the Red Cross is on site assisting those in need. In other public safety news, city police remind us to stay aware of increased vandalism reports around Bonney Road and the Oceanfront. Please keep your eyes open and report anything suspicious.

At City Hall, major decisions are shaping our summer. The Virginia Beach City Council has just adopted the revised operating budget for fiscal year 2026. Our $2.8 billion plan avoids a proposed pleasure boat tax, instead creating a new annual boat registration fee based on vessel size. This will help fund dredging and waterway maintenance. Council has also launched what they’re calling compassionate billing for EMS services. That means starting this summer, EMS will bill insurance companies for ambulance rides, aiming to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for our residents.

If you are out and about today, expect unsettled weather. Forecasters predict scattered showers and storms rolling through midday, with sunshine peeking through by this afternoon. Highs will be in the upper 70s near the Oceanfront. If you’re headed to any outdoor events or the beach, be prepared for a quick change in conditions.

The job market in Virginia Beach remains steady, with hospitality businesses along Atlantic Avenue and at Town Center hiring for the season. Job seekers are encouraged to check listings for hotel and culinary jobs, as well as open positions with city agencies. In real estate, inventory has ticked up a bit, with around 600 homes currently listed across the city. Home prices remain strong, with the average sale nearing five hundred thousand dollars, but new listings mean more options for buyers.

In business news, the abrupt closure of the Mount Trashmore Summer Carnival has left both staff and families surprised. Workers report not being paid, and city officials are looking into the sudden shutdown. Meanwhile, we’re welcoming a new wave of local eateries at Red Mill Commons and along Shore Drive, including a new farm-to-table bistro set to open next week.

For arts and culture, tonight brings College Night live music at Three Notch’d Craft Kitchen. This weekend the Sandler Center hosts a performance by the Virginia Symphony, and the summer concert series at the Oceanfront kicks off tomorrow night. Don’t forget, the annual Something in the Water festival is just a few weeks away.

On the sports front, we’re celebrating Howard University graduate and Virginia Beach native Noah Langford, who advanced to the NCAA East Regional quarterfinals in track and field. Local high school baseball and softball teams are also wrapping up their seasons, with several heading into postseason play.

Before we go, a quick feel-good u

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Good morning, this is Virginia Beach Local Pulse for Tuesday, May 27, 2025.

Virginia Beach police have arrested 52-year-old Robert Edwards Jr. in connection with a shooting that occurred Wednesday night on Standard Lane. The victim suffered non-life-threatening injuries and is currently in stable condition. Edwards faces multiple charges including malicious wounding and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Police Chief Paul Neudigate has emphasized the need for stricter legislation to reduce gun violence in our community.

Looking back at last month's Spring Break Weekend, the Virginia Beach Police Department made 53 arrests resulting in nearly 200 criminal charges during a 48-hour period. Officers confiscated at least 28 firearms and responded to several shooting incidents, including one on Pacific Avenue. The city continues to reinforce its commitment to public safety, especially in the Resort Area.

In city government news, the Virginia Beach City Council recently adopted the revised FY2025-26 Budget with a vote of 10 to 1. The $2.8 billion operating budget represents a 4.75% increase over last year. The controversial proposed boat tax has been replaced with an annual registration fee based on vessel size, which will help fund future dredging projects. The budget also establishes compassionate billing for EMS services, which aims to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for patients.

If you're looking for things to do today, it's the final day of the 22nd Annual Coastal Edge Steel Pier Classic at the Oceanfront. Sports fans can catch the Virginia Beach Valor taking on the Wilson Tobs in baseball action tonight at 6:45 PM.

The Virginia Symphony Orchestra has just announced their 2025 Free Concert Series, bringing classical music to various venues throughout our city. Details are available on their website.

In real estate news, the market remains steady in Virginia Beach despite seasonal fluctuations. Local agents report consistent interest in oceanfront properties and continued growth in the Kempsville area.

We're seeing beautiful weather for the remainder of the day with temperatures in the mid-70s and light ocean breezes, perfect for enjoying the final day of the Memorial Day weekend festivities or taking part in one of the community beach cleanups organized by local volunteers.

On a positive note, many residents participated in yesterday's Memorial Day Ceremony, honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. The event featured moving tributes and recognition of local veterans.

This has been Virginia Beach Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Good morning, this is Virginia Beach Local Pulse for Saturday, May 24, 2025.

We're kicking off Memorial Day weekend with plenty happening around town. The city is wrapping up both Public Works Week and Emergency Medical Services Week today, recognizing the essential workers who keep our community running smoothly and safely.

If you're planning to hit the road this holiday weekend, be prepared to pay more at the pump. AAA reports gas prices have increased across Virginia Beach and the state just in time for Memorial Day travel. Might be worth filling up sooner rather than later.

Speaking of Memorial Day, the summer concert series begins this weekend at the oceanfront. Free concerts featuring local bands will be playing at 17th Street Park, 24th Street Park, and 31st Street Park. It's a perfect way to kick off the season of sun and fun while enjoying different musical styles right on the beach.

In city news, Virginia Beach City Council adopted the revised budget for fiscal year 2025-26 earlier this month with a 10-1 vote. The $2.8 billion operating budget represents a 4.75% increase over last year. Two notable changes include a new boat registration fee based on vessel size rather than the originally proposed pleasure boat tax, and the implementation of compassionate billing for EMS services starting July 1.

Real estate remains steady in Virginia Beach according to local market watchers. The spring market has been active with moderate price increases compared to last year.

For those looking for employment opportunities, several companies are participating in a military job fair happening in the city. Veterans and active duty military transitioning to civilian life should check the city's website for details.

Community beach cleanups are taking place this weekend as part of our preparation for the summer tourism season. Volunteers are still needed, especially at the Oceanfront and Sandbridge areas.

In public safety news, police are investigating recent vandalism incidents reported along Bonney Road. Authorities have increased patrols in the area and are asking residents to report suspicious activity.

The 2025 Water Quality Report is now available on the city website. Officials confirm our drinking water meets or exceeds all federal standards.

The weather today looks perfect for beach activities with sunny skies and temperatures reaching the mid-80s. Light winds from the southeast should keep things comfortable, with minimal chance of rain until late Sunday.

This has been Virginia Beach Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

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Good morning, this is Virginia Beach Local Pulse for Friday, May 23, 2025.

The Memorial Day weekend kicks off today with the highly anticipated Salute to Summer festival at the Oceanfront. The three-day celebration runs through Sunday, bringing live music and family activities to our beaches. Tonight's headliners include country stars Old Dominion and Tyler Hubbard, with Kassi Ashton opening at the Scope.

We're seeing increased traffic along Atlantic Avenue as visitors arrive for the holiday weekend. Police have increased patrols throughout the resort area, so allow extra time if you're heading to the Oceanfront today.

In city news, Chesapeake leaders have proposed significant enhancements for Indian River Road, which could impact commute times for Virginia Beach residents who travel that route regularly. The plan includes widening portions of the road and adding new traffic signals.

Weather-wise, we're looking at a partly cloudy day with temperatures reaching around 70 degrees, perfect for beach activities. The weekend forecast shows temperatures holding steady in the low 70s with cooler nights around 59 degrees on Saturday and Sunday.

The business community is facing challenges as the owner of Seven Cities Tattoo on Virginia Beach Boulevard is planning to rebuild following a devastating fire earlier this week. Meanwhile, several local salon owners report they're feeling the impact of recent tariffs, with one telling us, "It's unfortunate how these price increases affect our small businesses."

For job seekers, a military job fair is happening today at the Convention Center from 9 AM to 3 PM. Multiple employers are on-site with immediate openings.

The real estate market remains steady according to local agents, with median home prices holding around last month's levels despite the seasonal uptick in listings.

In education news, court documents revealed disturbing details in the case of a former Kempsville teacher arrested on serious charges after authorities found illicit materials in his home.

Community members are rallying around the Oceanfront for a beach cleanup tomorrow morning at 7 AM. Volunteers are asked to meet at the 24th Street stage with gloves and water bottles.

Also worth noting, five separate studies are currently underway for specific locations in our area, including one focused right here in Virginia Beach. City officials tell us these studies will help inform future development decisions.

Protesters gathered outside Representative Kiggans' Virginia Beach office yesterday, expressing concerns about the recently proposed federal spending bill.

This has been Virginia Beach Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

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Good morning, this is Virginia Beach Local Pulse for Thursday, May 22, 2025. We start our day with a look at what’s happening right here in our city. As the sun rises, we’re getting ready for a warm, partly cloudy day with highs in the upper seventies. We may see the wind pick up along Shore Drive this afternoon, so it could feel a bit breezy at the Oceanfront and Town Center. Keep an eye on the skies if you’re headed to the beach or planning outdoor plans after work, though the rain should hold off until late evening.

In breaking local news, the Virginia Department of Transportation has lifted lane closures across major routes for the Memorial Day weekend, so traffic should move more smoothly along I-264 and I-64. That’s good news for anyone heading out of town or welcoming guests into Virginia Beach. Expect heavier than usual volume on Atlantic Avenue, so try to plan your travel with a little extra time.

At City Hall, the big headline this week is the adoption of the revised city budget for fiscal year 2026. Our city council voted overwhelmingly to approve a $2.8 billion budget, increasing spending by nearly five percent over last year. There’s no new pleasure boat tax as originally proposed, but there’s a new annual boat registration fee to help fund dredging projects. Also starting this summer, local EMS will begin billing health insurance for ambulance rides, aiming to keep out-of-pocket costs low while supporting our city’s volunteer rescue squads and first responders. These changes aim to keep Virginia Beach growing while supporting daily services we all rely on.

On the real estate and job market front, we’re still seeing steady demand for coastal homes, with average listings in the Great Neck and Kempsville areas holding steady this spring. Local businesses are hiring for hospitality and retail roles as the summer season approaches, so anyone looking for work at the Oceanfront or Town Center should see fresh postings.

Culturally, it’s a big week for Virginia Beach. The 81st Annual Vertical Flight Society Forum is underway in the Convention Center, bringing hundreds of experts in helicopter and aviation technology to our city. You might see some unique aircraft displays on your morning drive. And for music lovers, the park concerts and local tavern stages are alive with spring sounds, including the return of the city’s outdoor symphony series at Mount Trashmore this weekend.

In schools, Cox High’s boys soccer and Princess Anne’s girls track teams both notched big region wins, drawing cheers from fans and families on the sidelines.

On the crime blotter, police report increased patrols near the Oceanfront after a series of car break-ins overnight around 19th Street. No injuries were reported, but residents are reminded to keep vehicles locked and valuables out of sight.

Before we wrap up, a little feel-good story: students from Ocean Lakes High spent yesterday volunteering along Sandbridge, clearing litter and planting dune grasses to

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Good morning, this is Virginia Beach Local Pulse for Tuesday, May 20, 2025.

We wake up to a warm and breezy morning along the oceanfront, with temperatures headed for the upper seventies this afternoon. Expect a mix of sun and clouds, but there’s no real chance of rain today, so we can all look forward to smooth commutes, outdoor lunches, and plenty of afterschool activities and evening events happening across the city.

At City Hall, last week’s special formal session brought big developments for our future. City Council officially adopted the new city budget, which addresses key updates for schools, infrastructure, and public services. The council is also moving forward on a public education campaign around the upcoming November referendum. This vote gives all of us the chance to decide whether City Council elections will continue under the new 10-1 district system or return to the older 7-3-1 format. The outcome could reshape how every neighborhood is represented for years to come.

In breaking news overnight, we learned that police have made a major arrest after a tense manhunt stretching from Harbinger Road near Rosemont and Lynnhaven to the West Norfolk area. The search ended with Deric Lee Junior taken into custody in connection with the tragic shooting death of Regina Banks. Police thank the community for tips that helped lead to the arrest and ask anyone with additional information to come forward.

On the business front, there’s a new buzz near Town Center as several storefronts prepare for summer openings, including a locally owned coffeehouse and a new fitness studio on Independence Boulevard. On the jobs side, the market remains steady with just over one thousand new positions listed this week, mostly in health care, hospitality, and seasonal resort services.

For our real estate watchers, the city’s housing market is holding firm. Median home prices are close to four hundred thousand dollars, but inventory is slowly rising, giving hopeful buyers a bit more breathing room as we head toward summer.

Music lovers, we have big news—Grammy winner Samara Joy returns to headline the Virginia Beach Vocal Jazz Summit this weekend for its five-year anniversary. Events are set for the Sandler Center, drawing jazz fans from all over the region. In sports, our high school baseball teams pushed into the postseason this week, with Ocean Lakes and Princess Anne both notching important wins.

In community news, Bike Month continues, and the newly opened Three Oaks Path provides another safe stretch for cyclists and walkers along with the Foxfire Trail. And if you’re in need, the Virginia Beach Housing Resource Center is open this morning on North Witchduck Road, offering support for families.

We close today with a feel-good story from Bayside, where neighbors pitched in to clean up Shore Drive Park, collecting dozens of bags of litter and planting wildflowers for pollinators—a small action with a big community impact.

This has been Virginia Beach

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Good morning, this is Virginia Beach Local Pulse for Saturday, May 17. We wake up to a warm and breezy start along the oceanfront, with temperatures headed for the upper seventies this afternoon. A mix of sun and clouds means it’s a perfect day to get outside. No rain in the forecast, so everything from beach plans to afterschool sports and the big events around town should run smoothly.

Let’s start with breaking news from City Hall. Our City Council has just adopted the revised twenty twenty-five to twenty twenty-six budget and capital program. That’s two point eight billion dollars, up about five percent from last year, and there are some key changes. The plan drops the proposed tax on pleasure boats, replacing it with an annual registration fee tied to boat size. That move is meant to keep our waterways maintained without hitting boat owners with a tax bill. We’re also seeing a new approach to ambulance billing for emergency services. The city will now bill health insurance for ambulance transports starting this summer, aiming to reduce out-of-pocket costs for residents while providing steady funding for our volunteer rescue squads. Work to set up this system is already underway, and officials say it will help strengthen our EMS support moving forward.

On the real estate and job market front, business activity remains steady. While the latest citywide jobs report is due out next week, we’re hearing from local recruiters who say hospitality and seasonal roles are still plentiful, especially as beach season kicks into high gear. Real estate agents are reporting continued interest in homes near the oceanfront, with median sale prices now just above four hundred thousand dollars.

Now for a look at events lighting up our Saturday. The big headline is the inaugural Strawberry Fest at the Beach, happening today in the Artery District off Laskin Road. There’s live music, food vendors, and fun for the whole family, including chalk painting in the street and plenty of fresh Pungo-grown strawberries. Organizers hope this festival brings new life to Laskin Road and offers something special after the Pungo Strawberry Festival was canceled again this year. Over at the oceanfront, the Pungo Offroad Monsters on the Beach event is revving up with monster trucks battling it out on the sand—always a thrill for kids and adults alike.

If you’re looking for ways to give back, WTKR and Southern Bank are hosting a Shred-a-Thon on Virginia Beach Boulevard from nine to noon today. Safely shred sensitive documents and, if you’re able, drop off Beach Bags filled with snacks or school supplies to help local students during summer break.

In public safety, after a tense manhunt that spanned three cities, police have arrested a suspect in the tragic shooting on Harbinger Road near Rosemont and Lynnhaven. Officers thank the community for their help and remind everyone to stay vigilant, especially as warm weather brings more people outside.

Our schools continue to shine,

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Good morning, this is Virginia Beach Local Pulse for Friday, May 16, 2025.

The Virginia Beach City Council has officially adopted the revised budget for fiscal year 2025-26 by a vote of 10 to 1. The $2.8 billion operating budget represents a 4.75% increase over last year. In response to community feedback, the proposed pleasure boat tax has been replaced with an annual registration fee based on vessel size. The budget also establishes compassionate billing for EMS services, which will begin billing health insurance plans for ambulance transport starting July 1.

In Norfolk, tensions are rising between city officials as Commonwealth's Attorney Ramin Fatehi revoked the privilege of the Norfolk City Attorney's Office to prosecute criminal cases on Wednesday. Fatehi expressed concerns about the politicization of prosecution and criticized the Mayor for not engaging in substantive discussions about policy matters.

Beach visitors should prepare for some monstrous entertainment today as Pungo Offroad presents Monsters on the Beach at the oceanfront. Monster trucks will battle for "sand domination" in what promises to be a thrilling spectacle for families and automotive enthusiasts alike.

Sports fans will want to head to Broyles Field today at 1:30 pm for the VWU NCAA Regional elimination game featuring the Golden Bears. Yesterday, the team suffered an 11-1 defeat to the Marlins in a game that included a devastating nine-run third inning by Virginia Wesleyan University.

Today's weather looks promising for both the monster truck show and baseball game, with temperatures expected to be warm and comfortable. If you're planning to attend either event, sunscreen is recommended as we're forecasting plenty of sunshine throughout the day.

Looking ahead to the weekend, there are several community events scheduled as part of the City's BeachEvents program. The oceanfront resort area will host concerts, festivals, and family-friendly activities throughout the weekend.

In local government news, the Virginia Beach City Council recently proclaimed May 2025 as Bike Month in our city. Mayor Bobby Dyer encouraged citizens to celebrate by cycling for fun, fitness, or transportation. The proclamation highlighted recent additions to our cycling infrastructure, including the recently opened Foxfire Trail and Three Oaks Path.

This has been Virginia Beach Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Good morning, this is Virginia Beach Local Pulse for Thursday, May 15, 2025.

Big news from City Hall as the Virginia Beach City Council voted 10 to 1 on Tuesday to adopt the revised budget for fiscal year 2025-26. The $2.8 billion operating budget is up nearly 5% from last year. After community feedback, the proposed pleasure boat tax was replaced with a registration fee based on vessel size. The funds will support future dredging projects. The budget also establishes compassionate billing for emergency medical services, meaning EMS will start billing health insurance for ambulance transport starting July 1, aiming to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for patients.

In sports news, Western New England softball team is in town today to face Virginia Wesleyan University. The NCAA regional game kicks off at 11:00 AM, so expect some extra traffic around the university area this morning.

Looking at today's weather, we're in for scattered storms this afternoon. If you're heading to any outdoor events, bring an umbrella and keep an eye on conditions.

Speaking of events, there's plenty happening around town. The Zeiders American Dream Theater continues its run of "As You Love It" through May 24th. College Night Thursdays are also becoming a popular tradition in the oceanfront area.

For those interested in community service, several beach cleanup initiatives are underway this weekend. These efforts are part of our ongoing commitment to keeping Virginia Beach beautiful for residents and the thousands of tourists expected as we approach summer.

The meals tax increase approved in the new city budget is already causing reactions among local restaurants and tourists. Several oceanfront establishments have expressed concerns about potential impacts on summer business, while others are adapting their pricing structures accordingly.

In public safety news, residents of a Newport News apartment complex have reported multiple car break-ins, prompting Virginia Beach police to issue reminders about locking vehicles and removing valuables, especially as tourist season ramps up.

For those seeking employment, remember there's a military job fair happening today. This is a great opportunity for veterans and those transitioning to civilian life to connect with potential employers.

The Chesapeake Jubilee is also gearing up with fireworks preparations underway. Officials are focusing on safety measures to ensure a spectacular but secure event for all attendees.

This has been Virginia Beach Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.