🌱 Centra's 'Largest In History' Modernization Plan + Murder Trial

Good morning, Lynchburg. I'm Sean Peek and I'll be your new source for all the events, news, and general happenings in your town. Here is everything you need to know today in five minutes or less.

But first, today's weather:

Plenty of sunshine. High: 60 Low: 30.

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Here are the top three stories today in Lynchburg:

1. Centra has announced its "largest in history" Modernization Plan for its Lynchburg campus, which will involve a $500 million investment and aim to meet community needs based on its 2021 Community Health Needs Assessment. The first phase will be a revitalization and expansion of the Lynchburg campus, including a Centra Behavioral Health Hospital and Centra Rehabilitation Hospital, and a new multi-specialty medical office building, to provide expanded access to outpatient services and specialty care. Additionally, Centra will expand its virtual care and telehealth programs through a remote patient monitoring program, and the new Central Command Center. (WSET)
2. The Lynchburg Fire Department partnered with Lynchburg City Schools to participate in Virginia's statewide tornado drill yesterday (Mar. 7). The annual drill is organized by the Virginia Department of Emergency Management and the National Weather Service to help people test their emergency plans and prepare for tornadoes. Firefighters and apparatus were present at several elementary schools in Lynchburg to assist with the drill and evaluated each school's response. (WSET)
3. Derek Lewis, 31, will face trial on Jul. 5 for the murder of Tyler Johnson at Lynchburg's Iron and Ale restaurant. The grand jury found enough evidence for him to be tried, and surveillance footage will be presented as evidence. Lewis was arrested in Jacksonville, Florida last month and charged with second-degree murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and concealed weapon. (WSLS 10)

Today and tomorrow in and around Lynchburg:

Wednesday, March 8

• Open Mic & Karaoke Night At Apocalypse Cidery & Winery, Forest (6:30 PM)

Thursday, March 9

• BINGO Night At Three Roads Brewery (6:00 PM)
• Full Moon At The Lake Paint Night At Imagination Station Studio (6:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Mister Goodies is open for the 2023 season! The popular ice cream shop in Lynchburg opened earlier than expected due to the beautiful weather. The shop is a community staple and a favorite spot for families and students to enjoy a sweet treat. It's open seven days a week and offers weekly flavors and other specials, which can be found on its Facebook page. (WSET)
• Campbell County is considering selling the S.R. Memorial Greenway on Bumgarner Drive due to limited options for park development and parking, but some neighborhood residents are against the sale, saying it is a valuable asset for the community. The Parks and Recreation Advisory Council suggested selling the land to improve other parks, but residents argue that the greenway is frequently used and serves its intended purpose as a walking park, and they are also concerned about potential traffic if the land is developed. (WSET)
• Are you looking to fill your social calendar this month? Check out the list of events happening in and around Lynchburg this March at the link! (Lynchburg News and Advance)

You're officially in the loop for today. I'll be in your inbox soon with your next update!

— 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.