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April 21, 2026

news@whro.org
757-889-9312

April 21, 2026
news@whro.org | 757-889-9312

A Virginia Beach police officer speaks with a visitor on Saturday, the second night of an all-ages curfew at the Oceanfront. (Photo by John-Henry Doucette)

Oceanfront businesses sue to block Virginia Beach’s all-ages curfew

The legal battle over Virginia Beach’s Oceanfront curfew intensified Monday as a group of local businesses filed a second lawsuit to block the measure. 

The new filing, representing establishments such as Abbey Road Pub and Peabody’s, argues the city is misusing emergency powers to address "speculative" threats rather than actual riots. 

Business owners say the 9:30 p.m. restriction unjustifiably closes streets and damages the city's reputation as a tourism destination. 

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As Virginia weighs legal cannabis sales, officials say driving under the influence remains illegal and could be difficult to measure. (Photo via Shutterstock)

State survey finds nearly a third of Virginians think using cannabis makes them better drivers

As Virginia considers launching a legal retail cannabis market by 2027, officials are grappling with how legalization might impact impaired driving and the limitations of current data. 

A 2024 survey by the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority found 30% of drivers believe they're safer behind the wheel after taking cannabis. The agency has now launched a public safety campaign warning against driving while high.

Unlike alcohol, cannabis lacks a simple breathalyzer tool for enforcement, leaving officers to rely on observations, field tests and blood samples to determine impairment. 

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Athlete of the Week from media partner She Scored Sports

Kaitlyn Wilms at the plate. (Photo courtesy of Woody Poole Photography)

Ocean Lakes’ Kaitlyn Wilms

Ocean Lakes High School senior Kaitlyn Wilms is leading her undefeated softball team through a standout final season while preparing for a collegiate career at Ursinus College.

A two-time all-region first baseman, Wilms has maintained a .360 batting average and credits the team's success to four years of chemistry and persistent hard work.

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The Finnish delegation hands out flags during the NATO parade on April 18, 2026. (Photo by Steve Walsh)

Norfolk celebrates NATO Festival and Parade, despite continued criticism from the Trump administration

The decades-old NATO Festival and Parade returned to the streets of Norfolk over the weekend, drawing large crowds despite recent political rhetoric questioning the alliance’s usefulness. 

As the only North American home for NATO, Norfolk continues to host two major commands that are currently adding staff and expanding their international delegations. 

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