Today
in Norfolk
Wednesday, January 28th, 2026
Good morning, Norfolk. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 28th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Chris Belcher, known as Big B from 103 Jamz hip hop morning show, died at 57 after battling health issues, the station confirmed on Facebook as it remembered his vital role in shaping Norfolk radio culture. 3 WTKR
- ➤ Freezing temperatures are triggering emergency pipe calls as Kennedy Plumbing (local expert) sees many Norfolk homes facing uninsulated water lines near outside walls. Residents are advised to insulate and winterize pipes to prevent costly damage. 3 WTKR
- ➤ Warming centers and emergency shelters have opened in Norfolk and nearby areas to offer meals and safe sleep amid freezing conditions this week. The Salvation Army Shelter on West 19th Street serves residents, while similar services in Chesapeake and Newport News follow set schedules. 3 WTKR
- ➤ Longtime radio host Chris 'Big B' Belcher of 103 Jamz died Monday at age 57 after battling health issues. Known as one half of the Boodah Brothers duo, he left a lasting mark on Norfolk’s local hip hop scene. 13 News Now
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ A friend of a man killed in an HRBT crash launched an online petition asking local leaders to lower speed limits and add safety measures in the tunnel; VDOT said it reviews fatal incidents and adjusts limits after a traffic engineering study. 3 WTKR
- ➤ Norfolk resident Sarah Irizarry is rebuilding after an apartment fire on Jan. 13 that forced five adults from their home and claimed three pets, with neighbors helping her as she stays in an extended-stay hotel. 3 WTKR
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Local business owners claim that strict rules imposed by the foundation (led by Madeline Sly) have forced several ventures to close at the Pagoda since 2014 in Norfolk’s Freemason neighborhood, as tenants struggle to control a space where creative business plans are stifled. WHRO
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Virginia Opera debuted Intelligence, an opera about two Richmond women who spied during the Civil War, Friday at Harrison Opera House in Norfolk. It will be performed in Richmond and Fairfax later this week. WHRO
- ➤ In Norfolk, Chrysler Hall will close later in 2026 for renovations so select Broadway shows will move to Harrison Opera House during the 2026–27 and 2027–28 seasons. Local arts groups must adapt to fewer seats plus tighter staging as renovation plans are finalized. 3 WTKR
- ➤ Downtown Norfolk Restaurant Week is underway with over 20 local restaurants offering fixed-price dinners for $35 or $45 and lunches for $20 from Jan. 26 to Feb. 1—this event highlights Norfolk’s creative dining scene and invites both regulars and new diners to explore diverse flavors. 13 News Now
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Hampton Roads Planning District Commission is installing 45 flood sensors at 15 sites (including Norfolk) to track water levels during tides and rain; the system will be ready by midyear and share data online for drivers. WHRO
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ A new analysis by VCU and the Virginia Department of Health shows that although opioid-related costs remain high in several Hampton Roads communities, overdose deaths fell nearly 48% from 2023 to 2024. Local health agencies have expanded harm-reduction programs (including naloxone access and drug-checking) to help residents. WHRO
- ➤ Virginia Beach mom Lillie Martinez struggled with postpartum depression after having her son Jesse Joe and received help from nurse practitioner Jessica Schafer during a lactation consultation at Sentara Leigh Hospital. She and her husband Jaron now thrive & call for more awareness on PMADs. 3 WTKR
- ➤ The Virginia Department of Health reported today that influenza levels remain low statewide as emergency room visits for respiratory issues have dropped to about 3.8% (approximately 2,900 cases). In Norfolk’s Eastern Region, flu diagnoses are now 3.69%, showing a steady decline since the December holiday season. 13 News Now
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The Legwarmers Live
8-10 p.m. — The NorVa — Tickets available — Relive the vibrant energy of the Eighties with the Legwarmers' nostalgic performance.
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Pearloid Album Release Show
7-10 p.m. — The Annex — All ages — Celebrate the launch of Pearloid's 'Sugar In My Hand' album with performances from Celler Dwellers, Lopatoskis, and Captive Birds.
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Live Music Bingo! with Nate Sacks
6-8 p.m. — The Annex — Free entry — Enjoy a fun night of live music bingo with great prizes from local sponsors.
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Shucked: A Musical Comedy
7:30-9:30 p.m. — Chrysler Hall — Cost info not provided — Enjoy the Tony Award® winning musical comedy that The Wall Street Journal calls flat out hilarious!
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Shucked
7:30-9:30 p.m. — Chrysler Hall — Ticket price varies — Experience the hilarity of the Tony Award-winning musical comedy with a delightful score and witty book.
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SHUCKED - The Tony Award Winning Musical
1-3 p.m. — Chrysler Hall — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a hilarious Tony Award winning musical comedy that's sure to entertain.
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Cosmic Princess Anime Rave
8-10 p.m. — The NorVa — Tickets available — Step into a cosmic realm filled with neon dreams and anime vibes.
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Chelsea Handler: The High and Mighty Tour
7:30-9:30 p.m. — Chrysler Hall — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of laughter with the acclaimed comedian and author Chelsea Handler.
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Networking Vendor Double Header
12-7 p.m. — SpringHill Suites by Marriott Norfolk Virginia Beach — Free entry — Engage in dynamic networking opportunities with women CEOs and entrepreneurs while enjoying delicious catered lunch.
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Norfolk Admirals vs. Fort Wayne Komets
7:05-9:05 p.m. — Norfolk Scope Arena — Ticket prices vary — Witness an exciting face-off between the Admirals and Komets with an interactive video experience.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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Reveal the authorAbout Today in Norfolk
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