🌱 Police Chief Updates On New HQ + Hospital Safety Plan Unveiled

Hello all. It's me, Sean Peek, your host of the Patch newsletter. Let's get this week started off right with a quick dive into everything you need to know about what's happening in town, including updates on:

But first, your local weather:

• Monday: A heavy t-storm in the p.m. High: 87 Low: 62.
• Tuesday: Thunderstorm. High: 80 Low: 63.

Here are the top stories in Lynchburg today:

1. In an exclusive interview on Friday, Lynchburg Police Chief Ryan Zuidema provided an update on the eagerly anticipated construction of their new headquarters. With completion scheduled for early 2025, the state-of-the-art facility is poised to rise on Odd Fellows Road, promising a significant boost to the force. Chief Zuidema expressed enthusiasm over the swift progress, highlighting how the modern infrastructure will address long-standing deficiencies and enhance the department's ability to serve the community. Notably, the new headquarters will incorporate advanced security measures, ensuring the safety of officers during their ingress and egress. (WSET)
2. Downtown Lynchburg held its first Launch LYH pitch competition to support local entrepreneurs who wish to start, move or expand their businesses in the area. A panel of local business experts selected the seven winning small businesses based on their innovative ideas, business models, and commitment to positively impacting Lynchburg’s business community. The winners received a combined total of $115,000 in grant funds to help them open or expand within the next year. (Cardinal News)
3. Centra officials have unveiled a comprehensive modernization plan following a recent hospital lockdown incident. The plan aims to maximize safety through upgraded surveillance systems, employee-secured areas and improved emergency communication. Centra expects the modernization project to be fully completed by Fall 2027, ensuring the well-being of doctors, nurses, support staff, patients and visitors. (WSET)

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Today and tomorrow in Lynchburg:

Monday, June 26

• Ukulele Camp At Academy Center of the Arts (9:30 AM)
• Animal Safari Sculpture Camp At Academy Center of the Arts (9:30 AM)

From my notebook:

• Lynchburg City Council’s Finance Committee meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, Jun. 27, has been canceled. The next meeting will take place on Tuesday, Aug. 8, at 3:00 p.m. in City Hall, 900 Church Street, Second Floor Training Room. (Lynchburg Government)
• One of ABC 13's own, Mia Nelson, is set to showcase her ballet talent with a performance of "He's a Pirate" at the upcoming Miss Virginia Pageant, taking place from Jun. 29 to Jul. 1 at The Berglund Center in Roanoke. In an exclusive interview for the "What's Trending" segment, Kaci and Emily sat down with Mia to uncover her excitement and anticipation for the competition. (WSET)
• Following the recent submersible expedition to view the Titanic wreckage, Lynchburg resident Bruce Braun, who had previously visited the site in 1996, emphasized the dangers of diving to such depths in the ocean. The U.S. Coast Guard discovered debris consistent with a catastrophic loss near the wreckage and expressed condolences to the affected families while continuing the investigation. (Mid-Michigan Now)

You're officially in the loop 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.