Hi all! I’m back in your inbox this spring morning with everything you need to know about what’s happening in town.

But first, your local weather:

• Monday: Not as warm; a morning shower. High: 72 Low: 56.
• Tuesday: Warmer with a passing shower. High: 72 Low: 57.

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Here are the top three stories today in Lynchburg:

1. Lynchburg’s mayor, Stephanie Reed, is spearheading the “Taking Back Our Streets” community coalition in response to the recent deaths of children due to gun violence in the city. The coalition, consisting of city and faith-based leaders, aims to implement preventive measures and provide more recreational activities for children to keep them away from gang activity. The initiative comes after the tragic killing of six-year-old Kingston Campbell, which remains under investigation. Reed supports the idea of a citywide curfew for minors and is actively engaging with faith-based leaders to explore additional opportunities for protecting the youth in Lynchburg. (Lynchburg News and Advance)
2. A car crash occurred in Downtown Lynchburg, Virginia, where one vehicle collided with a local business called Myers & Rhodes Equipment on Main Street. The crash, which involved two cars, resulted in damage to the business’s wall. The owner, Michael Rhodes, mentioned that the crash has impacted the business, particularly hindering their ability to move large items in and out. An assessment of the damage and its cost is pending from the insurance company. (WSET)
3. The Lynchburg Fire Department in Virginia has been monitoring a chemical release from a holding tank at Cathcart Rail on Hydro Street, which has been causing noxious odors in the area for several weeks. The tank contains approximately 2200 gallons of ethyl acrylate, a flammable liquid used in the production of resins, plastics, and rubber materials. The leak has been contained in the immediate area, and there is no risk to public health. The Virginia Department of Emergency Management and the Department of Environmental Quality are working with the company on a cleanup process that is expected to begin soon. (WDBJ)

Today and tomorrow in Lynchburg:

• Diabetic Support Group @ Timbrook Branch Library (6:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• On May 12, 2023, an officer from the Lynchburg Police Department was involved in a shooting at the James Crossing Apartments. The incident occurred when officers responded to a report of an adult female assaulting Child Protective Services personnel. The Virginia State Police are conducting an investigation, and the involved officer has been placed on limited-duty status pending the completion of the investigation. (Lynchburg Police Department via Facebook)
• Lynchburg City Council has decided to continue the public hearing for appointments to the School Board, and interested residents are encouraged to apply online or through printable applications available on the city’s website. The public hearing will take place on May 23, 2023, to receive nominations for the three School Board positions representing each district. Applications must be submitted to the Clerk of Council before the May 23rd hearing, and appointed members will serve three-year terms starting from July 1, 2023. (City of Lynchburg, Virginia Government via Facebook)
• The Templeton Center is hosting a session on “Aging with Style and Grace | Fall Prevention,” led by occupational therapist Sarah Kennedy. The session will focus on the importance of building good balance to prevent joint and muscle injuries, and registration is open until June 4th. (Lynchburg Parks and Recreation via Facebook)

That’s it for today! I’ll see you around.

— Sean Peek

About me: Sean Peek is a writer and entrepreneur with a degree in English Literature from Weber State University. Over the years, he has worked as a copywriter, editor, SEO specialist, and marketing director for various digital media companies. He currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.