Good morning, Lynchburg.

Former Deputy Chief James Bomar, aged 97, was honored by the Lynchburg Fire Department and loved ones at Chestnut Hill Baptist Church Monday.

Bomar served 30 years and was remembered for his generous spirit + lasting impact on colleagues and community.

Farm Fest 2026, a family-run fair, thrives as local growers offer fresh produce and family-friendly activities today in Lynchburg, drawing strong community support.

Lynchburg food banks report a surge in visits as families cope with stolen SNAP benefits from their EBT cards + extra food supplies are being moved to local pantries to help those affected.

Pink Lady Espresso is now open Monday to Friday from 5:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Waterlick Road; owner Ashley Mason said she will expand hours later and offers discounts for teachers, first responders, and veterans.

Dominion and NextEra pledge to extend Virginia residential bill credits for four years and add 600 jobs if the merger is approved; the companies also commit to local investments, workforce development + community benefits, with state hearings starting in November and a decision expected in January.

A new report shows that investments in data centers and artificial intelligence now drive one-third of U.S. economic growth—metro areas benefit more than rural communities.

Local leaders may consider strategies to ensure Virginia communities share in this tech-driven prosperity.

Gas prices across Virginia are rising as AAA reports an 18-cent increase this week, with regular gasoline now averaging $4.14 a gallon.

Local drivers brace for ongoing volatility — global production issues and geopolitical tensions hint at further price swings.

Liberty University family and child development students participated in a COPE poverty simulation to experience challenges low-income families face and reflect on their perceptions.

The hands-on event provided a chance to learn firsthand about the realities of poverty.

On Sept. 10, the George Mason University Center for Health Workforce released a report showing that employers in Southwest and Southside advertised over 5,000 nurse positions and thousands of other healthcare roles.

The report helps local leaders plan training and staffing (highlighting growing opportunities).