Good morning, Lynchburg.

Lynchburg self-defense expert Marko Galbreath said large outdoor events can attract thieves and urged residents to plan their exit routes and trust their gut feelings when attending these gatherings—he noted that law enforcement now faces tougher challenges due to new criminal methods.

On Tuesday, the Lynchburg General District Court ruled there is probable cause to move charges against 33-year-old Nathaniel Lee Pridemore for the second-degree murder of 19-year-old Cash Gaudio, who was shot on September 30th, 2024 — the case will be reviewed by a Grand Jury on May 5th.

Today, several private gardens in Lynchburg open during Historic Garden Week so nearly one thousand visitors can see blooming displays and heartfelt tributes.

In the Rivermont Historic District, local gardener George Vermilya hosts his garden for the second time — honoring his late wife Dea with her favorite flowers.

Blue Ridge Literacy celebrated its 40th anniversary—marking four decades of community efforts to support literacy in Lynchburg.

Today, the U.S. Postal Service will host a job fair at the Lynchburg Post Office off Odd Fellows Road from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to fill immediate full-time and part-time openings.

Bedford County supervisors received feedback from consulting firm EPR on Tuesday afternoon about plans to improve Route 221 from Perrowville Road to Graves Mill Road—feedback from surveys and public meetings noted issues with traffic congestion, speeding, and the need for sidewalks. The board will review six proposed options as EPR prepares cost estimates before any changes are made.

The Lynchburg City Council’s Finance Committee learned on April 22 what is needed to create a downtown improvement district—its creation would help manage cleanup and beautification using a tax on downtown property owners.

City leaders will brief council members this summer and if approved, the district may launch in 2027 to support downtown improvements before the riverfront amphitheater opens in 2026.

2025 Student Productions

May 1-3, 7:30 PM – Thoresen Theatre — Ticket information not provided — Experience captivating one-act plays performed by senior theatre students.

The Great Gatsby Ballet

7-8:30 p.m. — Historic Theatre at the Academy Center of the Arts — Tickets required — Experience the glamour and tragedy of the 1920s through this stunning ballet adaptation of The Great Gatsby.

Freedom 4/24's Run 4 Their Lives 5K & Thrive LYH Wellness Expo

Come out for Freedom 4/24's Run 4 Their Lives 5k. Join the fight to prevent and end Human trafficking by walking or running with us! Friday: Family Fun Night/Kids Run & Packet Pick Up. Saturday: Run 4 Their Lives 5K & Thrive LYH Expo. After the race, make plans to attend the Thrive LYH Health and Wellness Expo. Check out all the best health and wellness resources, freebies, and experiences that LYH has to offer.

Open House Event in Lynchburg

4-6 p.m. — 1381 Tamer Ln, Lynchburg, VA — Free entry — Explore 38 homes for sale in Landfall with virtual tours and meet a Compass agent.

Myrtle Beach Pelicans vs. Lynchburg Hillcats

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Bank of the James Stadium — Prices vary — Enjoy an exciting Minor League Baseball game between the Pelicans and Hillcats.

Lynchburg Pops Presents And All That Jazz

7:30-10 p.m. — Historic Theatre at the Academy Center of the Arts — $15-$20 — Enjoy a night of classic jazz tunes performed by the Lynchburg Pops Community Band featuring local talent.

Jstop Latin Soul

7-10 p.m. — Flutes Wine Shop & Lounge — No cover charge — Experience an exquisite evening of live jazz, soul, R&B, and blues paired with fine wines and a delicious dinner menu.

Homecoming with Virgil Moore

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Historic Theatre at the Academy Center of the Arts — $30-$100 — Celebrate the lively melodies of Bernstein’s 'West Side Story' performed by local virtuoso violinist Virgil Moore.

Storming of Thunder Ridge

Cycling event — Routes for all skill levels — Jamerson Family YMCA — Registration required — Experience the beauty of Central Virginia while supporting community programs.

Conference USA Baseball Tournament - All Sessions Pass

3:30 AM — Liberty Baseball Stadium — Affordable tickets available — Experience the thrill of the Conference USA Baseball Tournament live in Lynchburg.

Blair's West Band with Late Night DJ

9 PM - 12 AM — Trading Post by Traber Ranch — Ticket info not provided — Experience a high-energy night with live music spanning classic and contemporary hits followed by a late night DJ set.