Good morning, Lynchburg.

Daily Bread received a $50,000 check from First Presbyterian Church this afternoon—just in time for Thanksgiving.

The donation helped the soup kitchen serve 920 meals a day and supports plans to expand services for more people in Lynchburg.

Local business owners worry that a proposed hemp product ban may reduce sales and force some shops to close—state officials are still reviewing the new rules.

Officials rescued 106 dogs from a hoarding case in Lynchburg—animals found living in unsafe conditions—and local animal services were assessing their health—planning treatment as needed.

University of Lynchburg announced voluntary buyouts for tenured and tenured-track faculty on November 18 to boost long-term financial stability—allowing reinvestment in student programs and faculty support—while affirming that no programs will be cut.

Central Virginia Governor’s School for Science and Technology named Scott Douglass as its third director — he will now lead the school’s programs moving forward.

Virginia got federal approval Tuesday to connect about 133,000 homes, businesses and community buildings to high-speed internet under the BEAD program—saving $200 million from the original plan.

State officials said the plan lets both fiber and satellite service reach more rural areas—helping link people to better internet.

Virginia residents will face about a 20% rise in health insurance premiums in 2026 as federal tax credits shrink and subsidy cuts take effect.

Insurance navigators urge residents to update their income and compare plans during open enrollment — a deadline ending January 31 — to avoid unexpected tax bills.

A national group released hospital rankings that placed Virginia second nationally based on patient safety—with 53 percent of hospitals earning an A rating.

The report showed that while Centra Bedford Memorial received an A, Lynchburg General earned a C and Virginia Baptist got a D (due to surgery issues).

Lynchburg Turkey Trot

8-10 a.m. — E.C. Glass High School — Registration opens August 4, 2025 — Gather your flock for a fun-filled turkey trot experience in-person or virtually.

The Blind Boys of Alabama: A Joyful Christmas Celebration

4-6 p.m. — Historic Theatre at the Academy Center of the Arts — $20 – $67 — Celebrate the festive season with the Grammy-winning sounds of The Blind Boys of Alabama in a joyous Christmas performance.

A Christmas Carol

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Wolf Den Downtown — Check local listings — Experience an original adaptation of the beloved holiday classic with your favorite characters.

Reindeer Run 2 Miler

9 A.M. — Hydaway Outdoor Center — Cost varies — Dash through picturesque trails with festive cheer, cookies, and support for a great cause.

DEKA Strong Fitness Challenge

Event — Time Range — Jamerson Family YMCA — Cost Info — Test your strength and endurance without the run in a supportive, high-energy environment.

Dailey & Vincent: Candy Canes and Coal

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Historic Theatre at the Academy Center of the Arts — $24 – $55 — Experience a festive night filled with holiday classics and heartfelt music from Grammy-winning duo Dailey & Vincent.

Morgan Wade Live Performance

7:30-9 p.m. — Historic Theatre at the Academy Center of the Arts — $39 – $87 — Experience powerful storytelling through Morgan Wade's music reflecting her journey of self-discovery and resilience.