Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 18th of July.
Good morning, Chesapeake.
Chesapeake woman Tia Johnson—a mother of four convicted of first-degree murder in January after footage showed her shooting her boyfriend outside her home—will receive a new trial after a News 3 investigation uncovered 911 call records that support her claim of acting in self-defense.
A new JLARC report found most Virginia school divisions did not remove any library books from July 2020 to March 2025, yet a few districts removed many titles, with Hanover County pulling 125 books, Rockingham taking 57, Virginia Beach removing 16 and Chesapeake removing two.
The survey noted a total of 223 unique books were removed—divisions attributed the actions to state code guidelines and local board decisions along with established book challenge policies.
Chesapeake City Council is reviewing plans for new housing on Elbow Road as local residents voiced concerns over heavy traffic.
Officials said the $30 million road widening project—adding two 12-foot lanes each way and improved drainage—is in development with design expected by Spring 2026, while a related bridge replacement began construction in 2024.
Congresswoman Jen Kiggans won key defense benefits for Hampton Roads in the Fiscal Year 2026 NDAA approved by the House Armed Services Committee — the law gives servicemembers a 3.8% pay raise, allocates $3.1 billion for Virginia-class submarines, and funds over $18 billion for military construction to improve housing. The legislation also directs resources to boost local shipyard workforce training and enhance oversight of military housing for shipyard workers.
Sentara Health officials in Hampton Roads say quick response to stroke signs is crucial because fast treatment can prevent lasting brain damage—new TeleStroke technology connects patients with specialists quickly to help start care as soon as possible.
3rd Annual All Black-Tie Affair
7-11 p.m. — The Signet Center — Tickets starting at $75 — Dress to impress in all-black attire at this elegant evening of dinner, dance, and live entertainment benefiting breast cancer survivors.
2025 New Energy Summer Camp
8 AM – 11 AM — Oak Grove Lake Park — Free entry — Keep the kids active and engaged over summer with fun activities and games.
Gospel Brunch
12-4 p.m. — Virtue Bistro — No cover charge — Enjoy gospel favorites, karaoke, and trivia at a lively afternoon gathering.
Cars and Coffee Chesapeake
8-11 a.m. — Everbowl — Free entry — Sip coffee and enjoy a gathering of car enthusiasts while admiring stunning vehicles.
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