Good morning, Lynchburg.

Firefighters battled an early morning blaze at Kodiak Shredding on Mayflower Dr in Lynchburg at about 4 a.m.—flames were seen coming from the roof and crews had the fire under control in about an hour with no injuries reported.

Ben Copeland reflected on his eight months as interim superintendent at Lynchburg City Schools and said his focus was fixing issues for students and staff as new leader Kristy Somerville-Midgette will take over tomorrow.

He added that he will join Trident Services tomorrow to support adults with intellectual disabilities — a move following steady school improvements.

Former Virginia State Trooper Ed Tinsley died on June 26 at age 88 after a 48-year career, during which he mentored fellow officers and volunteered in Lynchburg — leaving a legacy of service that local law enforcement and residents remember.

Residents are launching a last-minute campaign to keep Lynchburg’s downtown library branch, Jackson Heights Art Studio and the Templeton Center open as city council holds its final vote on the fiscal year 2026 budget today at 10 a.m. Online petitions have received hundreds of signatures and local artists warn that cutting these programs would hurt community connections — city officials have not yet commented.

Today, the Lynchburg City Council will hold special meetings at 9:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. at city hall to vote on the 2026 fiscal year budget and tax measures including a change in the real estate tax rate to keep tax bills steady after a 20% reassessment increase — council remains divided after more than seven hours of debate.

Today, Lynchburg Public Works began surveying the busy 501-221 intersection for a $90 million project—this plan will add two one-way streets and a bridge over Old Forest Road to ease congestion and improve safety.

A public meeting is scheduled for July 9 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Fire Station 7 where local drivers will learn more before construction begins in 2028.

Salem Red Sox vs. Lynchburg Hillcats

6:30 – 8:00 PM — Bank of the James Stadium — Discounted tickets available — Enjoy a lively night at the ballpark with community spirit and support a good cause.

Giant Bubble Show

3-4 p.m. — Joy & Lynch Christian Warehouse Theatre — $23–$27 — Enjoy a captivating performance featuring circus stunts and incredible bubble artistry.

Surfing Santa Christmas In July Paint and Sip

6-8 p.m. — The Yellow Submarine — Cost of painting supplies included — Create a festive masterpiece of Santa surfing in a tropical atmosphere.

Hadestown - Teen Edition

2:00 – 3:30 PM — Historic Theatre at the Academy Center of the Arts — VIP packages available — Experience the magic of Hadestown reimagined for teens with premium seats and exclusive perks.