Forum discusses cuts that could take effect in January

CHESAPEAKE — To a receptive crowd of several hundred at the Chesapeake Conference Center on Monday, three members of the Hampton Roads congressional delegation, local political and business leaders, industry experts and residents discussed how $500 billion in across-the-board defense cuts that are currently set to take effect in January would devastate the region.

The Isle of Wight Sheriff's Office says that $60,000 worth of valuables were stolen from unlocked cars between May 8 and May 13 across the county. The items stolen included GPS units, cash, cell phones and at least one handgun.

The Poquoson School Board will hear from a committee looking at possibly closing a school as part of its monthly meeting and work session Tuesday, May 15, at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 500 City Hall Ave.

The Virginia Department of Transportation reported the following traffic issues at about 8 a.m.: - Interstate 64 at the High-Rise Bridge: a lift is scheduled for 9 a.m. and traffic is backed up more than 4 miles westbound - I-64 at the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel east: backups of about 4 miles - I-64 at the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel west: traffic is backed up 5.3 miles

By Craig Moeller An unsettled weather pattern is shaping up across the region for the next 48 to 72 hours. We have already had light sprinkles this morning. Stray showers or storms will be possible later this afternoon and more likely late tonight and Tuesday. Highs are headed back into the upper 70s today and near 80 degrees Tuesday.

At the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel, eastbound traffic is backed up 4 miles to King Street. Westbound traffic should expect delays after disabled vehicle has temporarily closed the tunnel.

ROANOKE A campaign to raise funds to complete a four-mile section of the Roanoke River Greenway is being launched this week. When completed, the recreational trail will stretch 18 miles, making it one of the longest urban greenways in the eastern United States. Supporters say the project will contribute to the community's health and help attract young professionals to the area.

RALEIGH, N.C. Occupy Raleigh is joining another citizen initiative to protest North Carolina's constitutional amendment defining marriage solely as a union between a man and a woman. Members of Occupy Raleigh and 14th Amendment Equality Projects will march tonight in Raleigh, beginning in Nash Square. Occupy Raleigh's General Assembly passed a resolution against the amendment in February.

GREENSBORO, N.C. Lawyers for John Edwards will begin presenting his defense at the former presidential contender's campaign-finance trial. The first witnesses to be called by the defense include former Federal Election Commission chairman Scott Thomas, political pollster Harrison Hickman and ex-Edwards attorney Wade Smith. Edwards' attorneys have not indicated whether he will take the stand.

Get your umbrellas ready! A low pressure system will track up the coast early this week, bringing clouds and a good chance for rain. We start the morning with scattered showers across the area, especially on the Peninsula. The rain will spread over the entire area later today, with a chance for showers and storms through Tuesday night. Temperatures will remain in the 70s through the week.