Good morning, Lynchburg.

On Saturday, Dec. 13 at noon, 1,000 wreaths will be placed on veterans' graves at Old City Cemetery in Lynchburg as part of Wreaths Across America Day.

Wreaths will be displayed through mid-January for visitors to view.

Local nonprofits are facing a drop in holiday donations as rising costs squeeze household budgets, said Abby Hamilton of United Way’s Blue Ridge.

The organization plans to boost its outreach and has launched an emergency relief fund to help 10,000 families reach self-sufficiency by 2030.

Local officials granted a permit on Dec.

10 for a strip club to reopen in the neighborhood + additional details on its comeback are expected soon.

The Virginia School Performance Report was released yesterday, Dec.

10, showing updated academic data for public schools. It outlines key student performance measures that local educators can use to guide improvements.

The Lynchburg Public Library has opened its temporary Youth Services Hub on the ground floor of the Miller Center at 301 Grove St. Operating Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., the hub offers baby garden sessions, family story time, and a STEAM team as the main branch renovates.

The Virginia Nuclear Innovation Hub got a $2.4 million grant to study the jobs needed to build and operate new nuclear reactors and will launch a second phase of research with a February summit planned for industry and educators locally.

Residents in Lynchburg report mail delays, prompting calls for transparency as USPS cites inclement weather and staff shortages that caused sporadic service; the agency says deliveries will return in a few days and advises holiday mail to be sent by Dec.

17 to Dec. 20 (mail-by dates).

In Rocky Mount, fifteen dead vultures were found near a creek last week and tested positive for H5 bird flu introduced in 2022 + officials say the virus poses little risk to people even as 14 cases have been reported in Virginia, including one from Lynchburg.

Local contractor Brandon Brown advises residents to winter-proof homes by changing filters every 30 to 45 days, checking heat pumps for excessive ice, and opening cabinets near pipes to allow warmth.

He recommends letting faucets drip to prevent freezing — a step that can help avoid costly repairs.

Glenvar High School seniors Brody and Tre Dawyot will compete in the state final on Saturday at 11:30 a.m. at Salem Stadium, as Brody—who set a VHSL record with 135 touchdown passes—leads his team + works with his brother to secure the championship.

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.

Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings

4:30-5:30 p.m. — Sydnor Performance Hall — $ — Experience a candlelit string performance of beloved Christmas carols in a festive atmosphere.

New Year’s at Noon

10 AM – 1 PM — Amazement Square — Admission required — Glow into 2026 with dancing, crafts, and a balloon drop under dazzling lights.

BrickUniverse: The Immersive Brick Experience 2026

10 AM - 4 PM — River Ridge — Starting at $18 — Experience breathtaking LEGO creations and interactive building zones at this family-friendly event.