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  • Vandalism on Bonney Road, Oceanfront Safety, Steady Real Estate, and Community Happenings in Virginia Beach
    2025/04/12
    Good morning, this is Virginia Beach Local Pulse for Saturday, April 12, 2025.

    Starting with breaking news, Virginia Beach Police are investigating a series of property damage incidents along the Bonney Road corridor. Over 30 reports came in earlier this week for shattered car windows, with at least 14 victims reporting stolen items. Officers remind us to lock our vehicles and keep valuables out of sight while urging residents with security footage to come forward. It’s a sobering reminder to stay vigilant in protecting our property.

    In another safety update, the recent shooting at the Oceanfront on 17th Street resulted in one arrest. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, but the incident has reinvigorated police efforts to ensure safety as visitor numbers increase with warmer weather. Expanded use of technologies like ShotSpotter and FLOCK cameras will help authorities monitor activity in crowded areas. This comes as businesses like Old Time Photos remain committed to serving the community while advocating for continued security investments in the tourist district.

    Now, shifting gears to local development, the Virginia Beach Development Authority recently discussed the city's public-private partnerships, reflecting on a $30 million net gain for our tax base from recent projects. Exciting updates include investments in the Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater and redevelopment plans for the Dome district, promising a bustling season for entertainment and tourism.

    On the real estate front, the market remains steady, with median home prices hovering around $380,000. This aligns with a broader trend of growth as new projects attract homebuyers looking for vibrant community living.

    As for jobs, opportunities are on the rise, with openings at the Oceanfront for seasonal workers and new positions in development projects. Local businesses are also hiring across various sectors, from hospitality to construction.

    Looking ahead to the weekend, there’s plenty to enjoy. Tonight, the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts hosts a jazz ensemble sure to delight music lovers, while live performances continue at the Oceanfront as part of the spring music series. If you’re bringing the family out, check out the farmers' market this morning on Dam Neck Road for local produce and crafts.

    In community news, congratulations to the students of Princess Anne High, who took home first place in this week’s regional robotics competition. Their innovative designs showcase the incredible talent in Virginia Beach schools.

    Weather-wise, today will be sunny with highs near 70 degrees and light breezes—perfect for outdoor plans. The dry conditions provide an excellent backdrop for enjoying events around the city. Looking ahead, expect cooler temps tomorrow with a chance of showers in the evening.

    Finally, here’s a feel-good story to brighten your day: A group of local volunteers came together this week to plant trees along Shore Drive, enhancing both beauty and eco-consciousness in our city. A big thank you to everyone who lent a hand in making our community greener.

    This has been Virginia Beach Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.
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    4 分
  • "Virginia Beach Updates: Crime, Business, Arts, and Community Generosity"
    2025/04/11
    Good morning, this is Virginia Beach Local Pulse for Friday, April 11, 2025.

    We start with breaking news from the Oceanfront. Police made an arrest earlier this week after gunshots were fired near 17th Street last Saturday night. Officers responded swiftly to a crowd of 200 to 300 people, and thankfully no injuries were reported. Xavier Gatling, from Georgia, was charged with recklessly handling a firearm. Virginia Beach Police assure us their presence will increase as warmer months bring more visitors. They’ve also highlighted the use of advanced technology like FLOCK cameras and ShotSpotter to enhance safety. Let’s hope for a safe and vibrant summer season at the Oceanfront.

    In other public safety news, police are investigating a rise in “smash-and-grab” car thefts along Bonney Road. Residents are encouraged to lock vehicles, keep valuables out of sight, and report any suspicious activity. Stay alert, Virginia Beach.

    Turning to city hall updates, the Virginia Beach Development Authority is buzzing about tourism boosts from events at the Amphitheater and upcoming plans for the Dome redevelopment. These public-private projects are expected to generate millions for the city while expanding entertainment options. It’s a promising season for local businesses and visitors alike.

    Speaking of businesses, a new café, Shoreline Brews, just opened on General Booth Boulevard, offering cozy vibes and locally roasted coffee. But not all news is cheerful—after nearly 20 years in Town Center, Coastal Threads Boutique will close next month. The owners cite rising rent as the reason. It’s a reminder of the challenges small businesses face.

    Looking at real estate, Virginia Beach’s housing market remains competitive, with median home prices exceeding $435,000 as of March. For those in the market, now’s the time to act as inventory is expected to tighten further.

    On the cultural front, the Virginia Beach Arts Festival kicks off tomorrow at Mount Trashmore Park. Enjoy live music, food trucks, and local art vendors—it promises to be a fantastic family outing. Also, the Sandler Center hosts the Virginia Symphony Orchestra this Sunday for their spring concert, featuring classical favorites.

    In sports, congratulations to the Bayside High School girls’ soccer team for their big win against Ocean Lakes, clinching a 2–1 victory last night. Meanwhile, the city is gearing up for the Shamrock Half Marathon this weekend, so expect some road closures near the Boardwalk.

    As for the weather, it’s a beautiful day ahead with sunny skies and highs in the low 80s. A light breeze makes it perfect for outdoor plans. Tonight will be mild with lows around 60, so enjoy the cool evening.

    Finally, in a feel-good story, students at First Colonial High raised $15,000 for local animal shelters during this year's Paw Power campaign. Their hard work reminds us of the generosity within our community.

    This has been Virginia Beach Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.
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    3 分
  • Virginia Beach Local Pulse: Shooting Probe, Trader Joe's, Surf Lagoon, and Resilient Oceanfront
    2025/04/11
    Good morning, this is Virginia Beach Local Pulse for Friday, April 11, 2025.

    We begin with some breaking updates from our vibrant city. The Virginia Beach Police Department confirmed that a shooting occurred last weekend near the 400 block of Osprey Street, tragically claiming the life of 20-year-old Joshua Rice. This incident is under investigation, and police encourage anyone with information to contact the VBPD Detective Bureau or Crime Solvers. On another note, last Saturday, shots were fired near 17th Street at the Oceanfront, where an arrest was made. Thankfully, no one was injured. With warmer months ahead, police plan to escalate their presence in crowded areas to ensure public safety.

    Switching gears to city development, big things are coming to the Town Center neighborhood. A Trader Joe’s grocery store may soon occupy part of the old Bed Bath & Beyond building, joining Golf Galaxy in revitalizing the space. For residents in the area, this addition could mean more convenient grocery options without needing to travel to Hilltop or beyond. Also, the new Atlantic Park surf lagoon and entertainment venue, Atlantic Dome, are nearly ready to open. From seasoned surfers to beginners, the 2.6-acre surf lagoon powered by Wavegarden technology is a unique addition to our coast, backed by Virginia Beach’s own Pharrell Williams. Its accompanying concert venue, with a capacity of 5,000, is set to become a year-round cultural hotspot.

    Speaking of cultural spots, the Virginia Aquarium is offering an engaging exhibit, “Emotions at Play,” inspired by Disney and Pixar’s *Inside Out.* Perfect for families, the exhibit runs through May 4, with interactive displays exploring core emotions. Meanwhile, the Southern Watersheds Symposium is happening today at the Virginia Beach Convention Center, bringing together environmental leaders to discuss the health of our vital watersheds.

    In the world of sports and schools, Virginia Beach high school athletes continue to make waves. The Beach District’s spring sports are in full swing, with recent soccer and lacrosse matches drawing attention for their impressive performances. Over at the Virginia Beach Sports Center, elite prep athletes are gearing up for the upcoming VA Showcase, promising some record-breaking track and field moments.

    For job seekers, the local market shows signs of growth. The recent expansion in Town Center, along with rising retail occupancy rates, means more opportunities are on the horizon. Real estate, too, remains strong, with properties near the Oceanfront drawing interest as summer approaches. If you're considering buying or selling, now might be a good time.

    Looking forward, we’ve got several events this weekend to brighten your plans. Tomorrow, Red Wing Park hosts its annual Cherry Blossom Festival, where you can enjoy traditional Japanese performances, family-friendly activities, and the beauty of the Yoshino cherry trees. Don’t miss it!

    Finally, let’s talk weather. Today, we’re expecting partly cloudy skies with a high near 66 degrees and a light breeze—a perfect day to head outdoors. However, keep an umbrella handy for tomorrow, as showers are likely to move in during the afternoon.

    Before we wrap up, here’s a feel-good story to warm your heart. A local business owner at Old Time Photos, near the Oceanfront, shared how they’ve rebounded quickly from minor damage caused by last weekend’s chaotic crowd. "We’re resilient,” they said. “Come down and enjoy the area—the Oceanfront is open for business and ready to welcome you.”

    This has been Virginia Beach Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.
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    4 分
  • Virginia Beach Update: Arrests, Real Estate Boom, Cybersecurity Careers, and Community Events
    2025/04/10
    Good morning, this is Virginia Beach Local Pulse for Thursday, April 10, 2025. Let’s dive into what’s happening around our beautiful city today.

    First, we begin with a public safety update from the Oceanfront. Following a weekend shooting near 17th Street, Virginia Beach Police acted quickly to make an arrest. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, but this serves as a reminder of the importance of safety as beach season kicks off. Police have increased patrols and are utilizing enhanced technologies like FLOCK cameras and ShotSpotter to keep the area secure. Residents and visitors are encouraged to enjoy the Oceanfront while staying vigilant. A suspect, Xavier Gatling, is currently facing charges related to the incident, with his next court date set for April 21.

    In other news, Virginia Beach’s real estate market continues to heat up. Homes are selling at a median price of $377,000, a 4.7% increase from last year. The average home is spending just 31 days on the market, reflecting a competitive but stable market. If you’re house hunting, expect properties to draw about two offers on average. This is a great time for sellers to capitalize on rising prices and for buyers to explore opportunities in this active market.

    Turning to jobs, Virginia Beach is making waves in cybersecurity. With a 31.5% growth projected in the field, entry-level salaries start at an impressive $78,000. Employers like Booz Allen Hamilton and Lockheed Martin are on the lookout for professionals skilled in cloud security and network defense. For those interested, local universities, like Old Dominion, offer excellent training programs to jumpstart a career in this booming industry.

    City Hall is asking for our input on an important decision. The City Council is considering a change to how council members are elected. A referendum could appear on the November ballot, shifting from the current "modified 7-3-1" system to a "10-1" system, where all council members are elected by district. A public hearing is scheduled for next Tuesday at 6 p.m. at City Council Chambers. If you can’t attend, you can share your thoughts online or by voicemail.

    On today’s calendar, the 757 Career Summit continues at the Convention Center. This event helps job seekers prepare for opportunities across Hampton Roads and wraps up at 4 p.m. If you’re a veteran, educational seminars are underway in Norfolk and Newport News to support military families in exploring career and educational options.

    Weather-wise, it’s shaping up to be a mild and breezy day with a high of 68 degrees and partly cloudy skies. If you’re planning time outdoors, whether it’s a walk on the Boardwalk or a visit to Mount Trashmore Park, pack a light jacket. The weekend forecast looks sunny and warmer, perfect for festival season.

    Community events are keeping us busy this weekend. Saturday brings the Art Walk at the ViBe Creative District, starting at 10 a.m. It’s a fun way to explore local talent while enjoying live music and craft food. And don’t forget the spring flower festival at the Norfolk Botanical Garden, just a short drive away, where blooms are at their peak.

    We end today with a feel-good story. Virginia Beach student-athletes are shining on the national stage. The Princess Anne High School girls’ basketball team clinched the state championship over the weekend, bringing pride and joy to our community. Congratulations to these talented young women and their dedicated coaches!

    This has been Virginia Beach Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates. Take care, stay safe, and have a great day ahead!
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    4 分
  • Virginia Beach Weekend Update: Craft Show, Coastal Rally, and Cybersecurity Boom
    2025/04/05
    Good morning, this is Virginia Beach Local Pulse for Saturday, April 5th, 2025. Let's dive straight into what's happening in our city today.

    We begin with some breaking weather news. The forecast for today calls for a warm, breezy Saturday with highs near 78 degrees and strong winds picking up throughout the afternoon. This makes it a great day for outdoor activities, but do secure any loose items in your yard. Looking ahead, storms are expected on Monday, so enjoy the sunshine while it lasts.

    In community news, the Friends of the Virginia Beach Mounted Police are hosting their Spring Craft Show today from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Mounted Police barn on Indian River Road. This free event features local vendors, food, and handmade goods, with proceeds helping to care for the city's police horses. It’s a fun way to shop local and support a great cause.

    Over at Town Point Park in nearby Norfolk, activists from Virginia Beach and across Hampton Roads are gathering for the "Hands Off Coastal Virginia" rally to raise awareness about protecting our shores from offshore drilling. The community’s commitment to environmental conservation remains strong, so if you're passionate about coastal preservation, this is your event.

    Switching to jobs and business, Virginia Beach’s cybersecurity sector continues to thrive. The demand for professionals in cloud security and IoT protection is growing, with salaries starting at an impressive $78,000 for entry-level positions. Top employers like Booz Allen Hamilton and Lockheed Martin are actively recruiting, making this a prime time for tech-savvy job seekers. Meanwhile, unemployment in the region has dipped to 2.8%, reflecting a robust local economy.

    In real estate, Virginia Beach's housing market stays competitive. The median home price has climbed to $377,000, up nearly 5% from last year, while homes are selling in just 31 days on average. As demand rises, now is a great time for sellers, though buyers should be prepared to negotiate quickly.

    Over at City Hall, preparations are underway for a public hearing on a potential referendum to change the way we elect city council members. The proposed shift from the “modified 7-3-1” system to a “10-1” system will be voted on by the council next month, and public feedback is encouraged until May 3rd. This decision could reshape how our voices are heard in local government.

    In local schools, a new partnership is enhancing safety enforcement around our buses. Virginia Beach City Public Schools and the Police Department have teamed up with BusPatrol to tackle illegal school bus passing. This initiative aims to keep our students safe, and violators will face fines starting this month. It’s a great step forward for student safety.

    In sports, the Virginia Beach Little League teams kicked off their season with exciting games last night. Congratulations to the Princess Anne team for their 5-3 win! Meanwhile, high school track athletes are preparing for regional championships next weekend, promising some local talent to cheer on.

    For a feel-good story, we’re spotlighting local hero Emma Rivera, a 10-year-old who started the "Waves of Kindness" initiative. Her program encourages students to perform acts of kindness, gaining support from schools and local businesses. Emma’s efforts remind us of the incredible potential our youth have to inspire.

    Finally, on a serious note, police are reporting a significant arrest. Yesterday, a suspect linked to a series of burglaries near Lynnhaven Parkway was detained following an extensive investigation. The Police Department reminds us all to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.

    That’s all for today. This has been Virginia Beach Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates. Stay safe and enjoy your day!
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    4 分
  • Virginia Beach Update: City Council Vote, Cybersecurity Jobs, Pharrell's Atlantic Park, and More
    2025/04/04
    Good morning, this is Virginia Beach Local Pulse for Friday, April 4th, 2025. Let’s dive into today’s top stories, upcoming events, and everything happening in our community.

    We begin with breaking news from City Hall. The Virginia Beach City Council is considering a referendum that could change how we elect council members. Public discussions are ongoing, with a hearing scheduled for April 15th. Residents will have the chance to weigh in on whether the city should stick with the current "10-1" voting system, which has led to increased diversity on the council, or return to the older "7-3-1" model. The vote to approve the referendum will happen next month, so stay tuned for updates on this key issue.

    On the economic front, the cybersecurity job market here in Virginia Beach continues its impressive growth. With a projected 28% increase in demand for professionals by 2026, companies like Booz Allen Hamilton and Lockheed Martin are actively hiring. Starting salaries for entry-level roles are around $78,000, making it a prime career choice. Additionally, Virginia Beach ranks 21st nationally as one of the best cities to find a job, thanks to strong employment opportunities and a low unemployment rate of just 2.8%.

    Now, over to real estate. Home prices in Virginia Beach have risen 4.7% year-over-year, with the median home now selling for around $377,000. Homes are moving quickly, averaging just 31 days on the market. If you’re looking to buy or sell, this is a competitive but steady time to make a move.

    In cultural and entertainment news, excitement is building for the grand opening of Atlantic Park and The Dome next month. Backed by Virginia Beach native Pharrell Williams, the park features a state-of-the-art surf lagoon and an entertainment venue that can host up to 5,000 people. Both are expected to be year-round attractions that will boost tourism and local business.

    Speaking of events, there’s plenty to do this weekend. The Z Fringe Festival kicks off today at the Zeiders American Dream Theater, celebrating innovative performances in theater, music, and dance through Sunday. And tomorrow, foodies can head to the Oceanfront for the East Coast She-Crab Soup Classic, where local restaurants will compete for bragging rights to the best she-crab soup. Don’t miss your chance to sample and vote for your favorite dish.

    Weather-wise, it’s looking like a bright and breezy day here in Virginia Beach, with highs reaching the upper 60s. Perfect weather for outdoor events or a stroll along the boardwalk. Looking ahead, we can expect mild temperatures and mostly sunny skies throughout the weekend.

    On the safety front, a recent crime report highlights an incident at Lynnhaven Mall, where a group was arrested for shoplifting electronics on Wednesday evening. Police urge residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.

    In feel-good news, congratulations are in order for Princess Anne High School’s robotics team, which just won first place at a regional competition and secured a slot at the national finals later this month. What an incredible accomplishment for our young innovators!

    Finally, for those looking for work, Live Nation is hosting job fairs this month for positions at The Dome. Over 200 roles are available, starting at $20 per hour, offering an opportunity to be part of Virginia Beach’s growing entertainment industry.

    This has been Virginia Beach Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates. Have a great day!
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    4 分
  • Atlantic Park Surf Lagoon Opens, Jobs Boom, and Community Events Thrive in Virginia Beach
    2025/04/03
    Good morning, this is Virginia Beach Local Pulse for Thursday, April 3, 2025. Let’s dive into today’s top stories, updates, and everything happening across our city.

    Breaking news this morning – the much-anticipated Atlantic Park surf complex, backed by Virginia Beach native Pharrell Williams, is officially opening its doors today. The 2.6-acre surf lagoon, powered by Wavegarden technology, is the first of its kind in an urban setting in the U.S. It’s set to become a major attraction for both locals and visitors, offering an experience for everyone from beginner surfers to seasoned pros. Next door, the newly opened Dome entertainment venue is already drawing crowds with live music and events.

    In the world of jobs, Virginia Beach continues to shine. Our city’s cybersecurity job market is heating up with a projected growth of 31.5% by 2026. Entry-level salaries are impressive at nearly $79,000, while firms like Booz Allen Hamilton and Lockheed Martin are actively hiring. If tech isn’t your field, opportunities abound elsewhere too. Virginia Beach was recently ranked 21st nationally for the best cities to find a job, and unemployment in the area continues to drop, now sitting at just 2.8%. With housing prices up 4.7% over the past year, including a median sale price of $377,000, the real estate market remains competitive and strong.

    At Town Center, exciting developments are underway. While the departure of Legal Sea Foods is noteworthy, rumors are swirling about Trader Joe’s taking up residence in the old Bed Bath & Beyond space. Residents are hopeful, as it would make grocery shopping more convenient for those in the area.

    Today’s weather looks like a mix of sun and clouds with highs in the mid-60s and a light breeze off the ocean. It’s a great day for outdoor activities, and the forecast remains pleasant for the weekend, perfect for exploring local events.

    Speaking of events, tonight you can check out the Vintage Button Earring Workshop at the Mid-Century Garage, or make plans for this weekend’s Cherry Blossom Festival at Red Wing Park. With the Yoshino cherry trees in full bloom, it’s a perfect opportunity to enjoy Japanese cultural performances, family activities, and springtime beauty.

    In local sports, congratulations to First Colonial High School’s girls’ soccer team. They secured a decisive 3-1 victory earlier this week in regional play, advancing to the semifinals. Meanwhile, beach volleyball enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that Virginia Beach continues to host prominent collegiate beach tournaments, further cementing our reputation as a hub for the sport.

    On the cultural side, the Virginia Aquarium’s “Emotions at Play” exhibit, inspired by Disney and Pixar’s *Inside Out*, continues to delight visitors of all ages. It’s running through May, so there’s still plenty of time to explore this interactive journey into the five core emotions.

    Crime-wise, police responded to an armed robbery late Wednesday night at a convenience store on Virginia Beach Boulevard. Thankfully, no one was injured, and authorities are actively investigating. They are reminding everyone to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.

    To round things out, we’ve got a feel-good story that reflects the heart of our community. A group of volunteers from Ocean Lakes High School gathered yesterday to clean up Sandbridge Beach, removing nearly 300 pounds of debris. Their efforts remind us all about the importance of preserving our beautiful coastline.

    This has been Virginia Beach Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates. Stay safe and enjoy your day!
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    4 分
  • "Virginia Beach in Spring: New Developments, Events, and Local Highlights"
    2025/04/01
    Good morning, this is Virginia Beach Local Pulse for Tuesday, April 1, 2025.

    We're kicking off the month with some exciting developments in our city. The highly anticipated Atlantic Park and The Dome are set to open this spring, bringing year-round surfing and entertainment to the Oceanfront. This $2.3 billion project is expected to boost our local economy and tourism industry.

    In city news, the Virginia Beach City Council has decided to indefinitely defer action on the Something in the Water festival contract breach. While the festival won't be happening this month as originally planned, Mayor Bobby Dyer remains optimistic about future opportunities to work with the SITW team.

    Speaking of events, the 36th Annual High School Nationals wrestling tournament is wrapping up today at the Virginia Beach Sports Center. It's been an exciting few days of competition, bringing young athletes from across the country to our city.

    On the business front, we're seeing some new additions to our local scene. The 2D Cafe & Eatery has recently opened, offering a unique two-dimensional design that's perfect for those Instagram-worthy food photos. Victoria's Pizza is also shaking things up with their focus on homegrown, organic ingredients.

    For those looking to enjoy some outdoor activities today, keep in mind that the free parking period at the Oceanfront has ended. Daily rates are now in effect, so be sure to budget for parking if you're heading to the beach.

    In real estate news, the median home price in Virginia Beach has seen a slight increase over the past month, now hovering around $375,000. The job market remains steady, with several new positions opening up in the hospitality sector as we gear up for the summer season.

    Our local schools continue to shine. Virginia Beach City Public Schools recently celebrated their diverse history, highlighting achievements like Creeds Elementary's 2008 Governor's School of Excellence Award.

    Looking ahead, the Virginia Beach Department of Economic Development is hosting several virtual training sessions this month for small business owners. Topics range from federal proposal writing to digital marketing strategies.

    In public safety news, the Virginia Beach Fire Marshal's Office will be conducting pyrotechnics training at Mount Trashmore today. Residents in the area should not be alarmed if they hear or see any unusual activity.

    On a lighter note, Coastal Seaplanes is now offering scenic flights above the Chesapeake Bay. It's a unique way to see our beautiful coastline from a new perspective.

    As for today's weather, we're looking at partly cloudy skies with a high of 68°F. It's a perfect day to explore some of our local parks or take a stroll along the boardwalk.

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