Good morning, Lynchburg.

In November, more than 4,500 toys were collected for the Toys for Tots campaign under the Community Counts initiative.

Sergeant Jimmy Belt said the effort provided local families hope and helped brighten Christmas for children (a tradition that unites the community).

Residents can support local organizations by donating or volunteering with The Least of These Ministry — founder Dawn Sandoval outlined options on 7@four.

Opportunities remain available before year end for those eager to help the community.

A family-owned pizza restaurant will open on Church Street in downtown Lynchburg soon—bringing a fresh dining option for locals.

Market on Melrose celebrated its first anniversary on Thursday, Dec.

11 in a community event featuring local vendors. The market marks a milestone as it continues to serve neighborhood residents.

Lynchburg’s metro continues to add jobs but wages fall as more lower-paid positions are added and worker hours drop.

Federal Reserve economist (Joe Mengedoth) explained the trend in a recent report, noting that other Virginia metros show stronger wage gains.

New school ratings released on Dec.

11 have raised questions among parents and educators about how performance is measured, prompting officials to review the criteria used. The review is expected to address community concerns about local school standards.

Lynchburg’s music community remembered band director Russ Pawlas for his joyful spirit + dedication to music education over the past week, highlighting his lasting impact in Hill City and across Central Virginia.

A Lynchburg resident said her doorbell camera caught a USPS worker throwing her package onto her porch, prompting her to report the incident to the Postal Service (she fears this may have happened before due to ongoing delivery issues).

Former Congressman Tom Perriello announced his run for Virginia’s 5th District at a launch party in Charlottesville on Wednesday—he said he plans to restore local programs and invest in clean energy to help Lynchburg neighbors cope with rising living costs.

Local pediatrician Gina Robinson at Cleveland Clinic Children’s advises parents this holiday season to buy age-appropriate toys and safely discard packaging, explaining that a simple test—checking if a toy fits through a toilet paper roll—can spot choking hazards.

Lynchburg area property transfers were reported for the week (Dec.

11) as local residential and commercial properties changed owners, showing market trends.

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.