Good morning, Lynchburg.

Lynchburg marine and veterans advocate James Tennant—83 years old—died in a motorcycle crash in Albemarle County on September 26 while he was headed to the Virginia American Legion Riders Rally.

Dream Dance Studio is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with cultural dance events—more details on the programs will be shared soon.

The studio plans to continue these activities throughout the month to honor Hispanic traditions.

Dream Dance Studio performed on WDBJ7 on September 28—part of Hispanic Heritage Month events that showcased live dance art.

The televised show highlighted the studio’s talent for art and community celebration.

University of Lynchburg President Alison Morrison-Shetlar announced that she will retire at the end of this academic year after five years in charge — she declined a three-year contract offered by the board.

She credited her background in biology and teaching for guiding decisions during COVID and said she will travel with her husband and quilt in retirement.

Virginia news outlets report that hydrilla has surged back at Smith Mountain Lake after a decade of dormancy—Bedford town officials are exploring renewable energy, Danville Goodyear will sell 500 acres including a golf course, and Bedford County is modifying a landfill permit to open a new cell. These developments highlight ongoing changes across the region.

Local officials urged families to update their emergency kits and plans one year after Hurricane Helene to help protect homes from future storms—residents are reminded to gather supplies and review safety steps.

Lynchburg Regional Airport will finish work on its Runway 4-22 Rehabilitation Project by the end of September—a full month ahead of schedule.

Construction began in June and adds new pavement, runway markings, signs, and LED lighting to improve safety and efficiency.

On September 28, World Rabies Day was observed when the Central Virginia Health District urged residents to vaccinate their pets and avoid contact with wild animals (raccoons, skunks, foxes) to prevent the nearly 100% fatal virus.

Officials noted that 23 wild animals tested positive this year and stressed that state law requires cats and dogs to have current shots.

An Evening with Melissa Etheridge

7-9 p.m. — Historic Theatre at the Academy Center of the Arts — $48 – $107 — Experience the raw energy and powerful vocals of rock icon Melissa Etheridge live on stage.

Healthy Kids Running Series Fall 2025

10 AM – 11 AM — Linkhorne Middle School — Registration required — A five-week running program for kids from Pre-K to 8th grade promoting health and activity.

Masterworx Community Theater: Newsies - The Musical

7-10 p.m. — Historic Theatre at the Academy Center of the Arts — VIP tickets available — Experience the excitement of Newsies in an engaging community theater setting.

Wine & Garlic Festival

11 AM – 5 PM — Rebec Vineyards — Admission fee may apply — Enjoy two days of garlic-themed fun with wine tastings, music, and family activities.

Masterworx Community Theater: Newsies - The Musical

2-5 p.m. — Historic Theatre at the Academy Center of the Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience the excitement of the Broadway hit as local talent brings the story of young newsboys to life.

Vitamin String Quartet Concert

7-9 p.m. — Historic Theatre at the Academy Center of the Arts — Ticket prices may vary — Experience innovative string arrangements that blend classical, hip-hop, rock, and pop music.

Blue Ridge Line Dancing Festival 2025

3-10 p.m. — Art Alley — No refunds — Kick up your boots and enjoy line dancing with great performers in Lynchburg!

Roanoke Ballet Theatre Presents Dracula

3:00 – 4:30 PM — Historic Theatre at the Academy Center of the Arts — $20 – $75 — Experience the haunting ballet that brings Bram Stoker's legendary vampire to life with stunning choreography and music.

4th Annual Fall Festival

10 AM – 3 PM — The American Civil War Museum - Appomattox — Free entry — Celebrate the season with live music, food, and family-friendly activities in a historic setting.

Phil Vassar: 25 Years of Paradise Tour

7:30-10 p.m. — Historic Theatre at the Academy Center of the Arts — $39–$92 — Celebrate Phil Vassar’s enduring hits and vibrant performance at this special anniversary tour.