Good morning, Lynchburg.

Campbell County approved a $45 million renovation for Altavista Combined School, with improvements planned for later this year in Altavista.

Officials say the project will enhance learning spaces for students and benefit local families.

Lynchburg City Schools approved a 4% pay raise for staff, but leaders now need to secure an additional $1.5 to $1.8 million to cover the cost.

The school board is reviewing every budget line (seeking community support) as funding remains unresolved.

The University of Lynchburg welcomed five new trustees (an alumnus, a longtime business leader, and a federal executive) to help shape its future strategy.

Their appointment brings fresh leadership for the board.

The University of Lynchburg added five new trustees on July 1.

The board now includes Analisa Archer, Bill Bodine, Andy Flint, Kevin Moore and Jim Napier to help guide the school’s future.

Bedford County on Tuesday announced its new fire chief, Jason Ferguson, who will assume his role on Aug.

17. Ferguson (with over 20 years of fire service experience, including serving as chief in Botetourt County) is expected to enhance local EMS and fire services.

Lynchburg city council is considering naming the Odd Fellows Road Bridge after former NASCAR driver Earl Brooks (Earl of Lynchburg) as a tribute to his long racing career from 1949 to 1980.

Local officials today held a ribbon cutting for Lynchburg’s Downtown Renewal Project to launch new improvements in the city center that aim to boost business and community activity in the coming months.

The Wildlife Center of Virginia released results from a study over 10 years that treated mange in 14 Black Bears using medication that cleared mites.

However, three bears redeveloped mange after release and were euthanized — four were GPS tracked to monitor reinfestation risks.

Bespoke Tote Bag Workshop

10:00 – 11:30 AM — Riverviews Artspace — $35.00 — Create a unique tote bag with colorful fabric hummingbirds in a no-sew workshop led by artist Katie Martin.

Old Crow Medicine Show Concert

7-9 p.m. — Historic Theatre at the Academy Center of the Arts — Pricing not specified — Experience a vibrant celebration of American string-band tradition with a dynamic performance by Old Crow Medicine Show.