Good morning, Lynchburg.

Gates Flag & Banner Company opened a new facility off Graves Mill Road yesterday after years of growth; vice president Anna Ebersold said the company needed more space and staff while operations manager Daniel Ebersold welcomed the community.

Uptown Cheapskate opens a new thrift store in Lynchburg with a grand opening celebration starting March 28 (store hours: Mon-Sat 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday 12 to 6) and daily drawings for a $100 shopping spree with hidden store credits for instant discounts.

WSLS launched Patchwork 250 — a new initiative to honor Wood Brothers Racing’s over 75 years in NASCAR.

The series will share Virginia stories, linking Stuart’s family legacy with regional milestones.

Local Teacher of the Year discussed plans to add community wellness activities into classes soon; the initiative will include group sessions + collaborations with local partners to help students build healthy habits.

Jubilee Family Development Center is planning to add five classrooms at its Astronaut Leland Melvin STEM Center (including a new Mark Spain Media Center) after the Planning Commission unanimously approved a two-acre rezone, though city council still must decide while funds are raised.

Local hospitals remain prepared after the Virginia Department of Health confirmed six measles cases and completed contact tracing with no public exposure sites identified.

Carilion Clinic & LewisGale Regional Health System are ready to treat any patients if needed.

Rebranded from the Hill Cats, the Hill City Howlers are launching their new identity with $5.3 million in stadium renovations scheduled to finish by 2027 — they signed a 15-year lease and will host Fan Fest Saturday from noon to 4 p.m.

HOPEx 2026: Hope in Action

Join Lynchburg Beacon of Hope for HOPEx, the 5th annual evening of live storytelling themed “Hope in Action,” featuring local speakers and Lynchburg City Schools alumni making an impact in the community. Emceed by Executive Director Leidra McQueen with music by Flat Five Jazz, the event highlights stories of everyday hope while supporting scholarships, internships, and post-graduation opportunities for Lynchburg’s youth.

Science Day for 3rd-6th Graders

11:45 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. — Michels Athletic Center, Randolph College — Registration required — Engage in hands-on science activities designed for children in grades 3-6.

Easter Brunch Buffet at Bella Vista

11 AM – 4 PM — Bella Vista Hotel & Suites — Price TBA — Delight in a festive Easter brunch featuring a bountiful buffet and chef-carved specialties.

Verona Quartet Concert

3-5 p.m. — Randolph College — Ticket info not provided — Experience the acclaimed Verona Quartet, known for their cohesive and dynamic performances.

Passion Pickleball Tournament

10:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. — Ivy Hill Golf Club — Free entry — Grab a paddle and play with purpose while making a difference in the community.

Hickory Crawdads vs. Hill City Howlers

6-7 p.m. — Bank of the James Stadium — Secure your seats — Experience the excitement of the Hickory Crawdads live in action.

501 Coyotes Live Performance

8-10 p.m. — Academy Center of the Arts — Check venue for ticket pricing — Experience the raw, energetic blend of punk and country from Lynchburg's own 501 Coyotes.