Energy stocks kicked off the month of May with gains in early action on Friday, despite flat-to-lower action in the broad market. The Amex Oil Index rose 0.7% to 883. The Amex Natural Gas Index rose 0.6% to 390. Chevron dipped 13 cents to $65.97 after it said its net income fell by more than 60%. Crude prices provided a lift to the sector, with futures on the New York Merchantile Exchange rising 30 cents to $51.42.