Good morning, Chesapeake.

Community activists distributed $25 gas cards Thursday at a Chesapeake gas station to help residents face rising pump prices—volunteers quickly provided extra cards, food and essential supplies and said they will continue relief efforts as long as needed.

Mayor Rick West said at the State of the City address on Thursday that 565 new businesses opened last year and 3,284 jobs were added, with plans for over 750 more as LS Greenlink (a cable manufacturer) builds a facility along the Elizabeth River and USAA expands its headquarters in Chesapeake.

Experts from Colorado State University forecast that the hurricane season will be slightly below average beginning June 1 — yet they warn residents to review emergency plans since even faraway storms can bring dangerous surges and wind damage.

Chesapeake locals are urged to stay informed and prepared.

Gov. Spanberger signed multiple bills that will raise Virginia's minimum wage to $15 by Jan.

1, 2028 and create workforce programs for high school students, farm workers, and federal employees during shutdowns. The laws are designed to improve worker stability + support the state economy.

Local paramedics save lives by delivering whole blood at emergency scenes after Tidewater EMS Council received a $150K grant to expand its Whole Blood Initiative in EMS Region 7.

The program will double daily blood units from 10 to 20 and has already aided over 500 patients during critical calls.

Chesapeake Recycles Day

9 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Western Branch High School — Free entry — Partnering with local services to recycle a wide variety of items in Chesapeake.

Chesapeake Arts Festival

1-5 p.m. — Chesapeake City Park — Free entry — Celebrate the arts with exquisite artwork, live music, and culinary delights at a vibrant community festival.

Tidewater Strider Marathon

7 a.m. — Rest Stop at Mile Post 4 — Registration fee varies — Experience one of the flattest and fastest marathons in Virginia.

Khedive Motor Corps Shrimp Feast

ALL YOU CAN EAT Shrimp Feast — 1-7 p.m. — Khedive Shrine Center — Tickets limited — Dive into fried and steamed shrimp with live entertainment and fun activities for the whole family.