“Blue Zone” diets explore how everyone can try to extend their life by making a few key food changes.

“Longevity diet” sounds like a trend, but what it really describes is a way of eating that feels almost old-fashioned: simple meals, cooked at home, shared often, and built from foods your great-grandparents would recognize.

As researchers look closely at communities where people remain active into their 80s and 90s, patterns emerge. They aren’t built on powders or promises. They’re built on beans simmering on a weekday stove, vegetables filling half the plate, olive oil glinting on a salad, and sweets saved for when they’re worth it. It’s less about chasing youth and more about giving your future self a better shot at feeling well.

In Central Virginia, the pieces are easy to find. A longevity-minded plate can come together from the farmers market, the produce aisle, or even your freezer: roasted broccoli beside brown rice, a ladle of lentil soup, a bowl of berries after dinner. The magic isn’t in any single ingredient. It’s in the steady, daily rhythm of choices that lower inflammation, steady blood sugar, and protect the heart and brain. Over time, those small advantages compound.

How to Eat a Blue Zone Diet

Protein is often the first question. Are we eating enough? Too much? The most durable longevity patterns hit a comfortable middle. They don’t fear protein; they simply choose it thoughtfully. Beans and lentils appear often, not as a penance but as comfort food—tucked into tacos, stirred into pasta, folded into soups. Eggs, yogurt, and modest portions of poultry or fish show up, too, usually as supporting players rather than headliners. For households avoiding fish, walnuts, chia, flax, and fortified products can help fill omega-3 gaps. The aim is to preserve muscle as we age without leaning on processed meats that add risk without much benefit.

Carbohydrates aren’t villains here, either. The difference between a grain that supports longevity and one that saps energy is mostly in the milling. Intact grains—oats, farro, barley, brown rice—bring fiber, minerals, and texture; highly refined flours bring speed but little staying power. In practice, that looks like pairing your carbs with something slow and satisfying: peanut butter on an apple, tahini over roasted sweet potatoes, a drizzle of olive oil and a handful of olives tossed through warm pasta and vegetables. You feel fuller, longer, and your blood sugar stays steadier between meals.

Simple Food Swaps For A Healthier Diet

Fat—so often maligned—plays a protective role when it comes from the right places. Extra-virgin olive oil is the backbone in most long-lived regions for good reason; its blend of monounsaturated fat and polyphenols supports heart health and helps the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins from all those vegetables. Nuts and seeds add crunch and calm, turning a simple salad into a meal and offering a bridge from lunch to dinner that doesn’t end in a 3 p.m. slump.

If there is a true hero of longevity eating, it’s fiber. Not the kind you buy in a tub, but the kind that grows: vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains. Fiber feeds the gut microbiome—the trillions of microorganisms that help regulate inflammation, immunity, and even mood. When you give that ecosystem diverse, plant-rich meals, it returns the favor by producing compounds that protect the lining of the gut and the health of your arteries. It’s a quiet exchange you never see, but you feel it in stable energy and the ability to bounce back.

Fermented foods are another quiet helper. Cultures that age well often include yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, or miso in ordinary meals. You don’t need a fermentation crock on your counter; a spoonful beside dinner or a pour over granola is enough to diversify the beneficial bacteria in your gut. The point isn’t perfection. It’s frequency.

Lifestyle Changes to Extend Your Life

What about fasting? The most reasonable, sustainable approach is simpler than the trend stories suggest: finish dinner a little earlier, and allow your body a natural overnight fast—about 12 hours—most days. That gentle rhythm gives your metabolism time to reset without the stress of strict windows or skipped meals. It’s not appropriate for everyone, and it shouldn’t overshadow the basics: regular, unhurried meals with plenty of plants.

Alcohol sits in the “choose carefully” category. In long-lived places, it’s consumed modestly, usually with food, often in community. You won’t find nightly heavy pours in longevity research’s success stories. You will find tea, coffee, and lots of water—small rituals that mark the day and keep you hydrated.
Supplements? They’re the supporting cast at best.

A well-rounded longevity plate usually covers the bases, though a conversation with your clinician about vitamin D, vitamin B12 (especially if your diet is mostly plant-based), and algae-based omega-3s for non-fish eaters can be sensible. Be skeptical of “anti-aging” blends that promise sweeping results;
if something sounds like an elixir, it probably functions more like marketing.

Longevity Diets Are About…Well…The Long Run

Perhaps the greatest thing about a longevity diet is how well it pairs with an ordinary Tuesday.

You don’t need a chef’s kitchen or an afternoon free. You need a few staples you can reach for without thinking: a good olive oil, a jar of beans, a sturdy grain, frozen vegetables for nights when fresh isn’t in the cards, and a spice you love. Start meals by asking, “What’s the vegetable?” Then build around it. Roast a pan of whatever vegetables you have, toss with olive oil and herbs, and add protein to suit your household. Boil pasta and fold in white beans, cherry tomatoes, and spinach. Warm a pot of soup on Sunday and let it carry you through midweek.

And eat together when you can. The research on longevity always circles back to the table, not just what’s on it. Shared meals slow us down. They help us notice when we’re full. They anchor children’s routines and adults’ stress levels. In a culture tempted by speed, the decision to sit—truly sit—for dinner might be the most protective habit of all.

Longevity isn’t a cleanse, and it isn’t a finish line. It is, in the best sense, local: a way of stocking your pantry and shaping your week so that future you gets more mornings on the trail, more afternoons in the garden, more celebrations worth toasting. Start where you are. Choose the plant first. Drizzle the olive oil. Keep dessert special. Then repeat, quietly, in the background of a life that feels more energetic and clear. Years may be the headline, but day-to-day vitality is the real story—and that’s something you can taste.

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Exploring Real, Tangible Art in an Age of Algorithms

By: Charlotte Farley | Photos By: Ashlee Glen

I don’t know about you, but I’ve been craving a return to a more analog kind of life, gravitating toward something that I can touch and hear without needing screens and Internet service. For my birthday, my husband gave me a stereo system complete with a turntable and CD player. When I finally listened to music through those killer speakers after years of streaming on Pandora or Spotify, the sound startled me in the best way possible. It was rich. It was bold. It was beautiful. That small shift back to analog made me feel what I’d been missing, which is exactly the energy behind the Maier Museum’s new exhibition Audacity: The 114th Annual Exhibition of Contemporary American Painting.

For more than a century, this annual exhibition has showcased contemporary American art in all its shifts and reinventions, and this year’s focus on painting feels both timely and strikingly fresh. This show is indeed a vivid display of what it means to have the audacity to create something purely from one’s own hands, with one’s own imagination and heart. In other words, how dare we be human.

The History of Maier Museum’s Annual Art Exhibition

The Maier’s annual exhibition series began in 1911, when Randolph-Macon Woman’s College committed to bringing the strongest contemporary American art to its students each year. For decades, that meant painting. The show functioned as a cultural gateway that introduced both the college community and Lynchburg at large to the best work emerging in the medium.

For the first half-century, the annual exhibition centered almost entirely on painting, but in the decades since, it has expanded to reflect the growing range of media explored by contemporary American artists. This year marks the first time in nearly thirty years that the exhibit returns to painting alone, echoing its earliest roots.

“It felt like time to revisit painting,” said Martha Johnson, director of the Maier Museum.

The Spirit Behind the Art Exhibition

Johnson explained that the spirit behind Audacity grows out of the moment we’re living in. Conversations about AI—its speed, its opacity, its uncanny output—have become impossible to ignore, and so much of the imagery we encounter now is generated instantly by software. In that landscape, returning to painting feels purposeful.

“We’re all feeling some uncertainty about where AI is going—or has already gone,” she said. “It isn’t something that’s ‘coming’; it’s blown past us, and that can feel very untethering.”

For Johnson, this exhibition is “a kind of answer to what’s happening. It’s a reaffirmation, a fearless reaffirmation, of the medium of painting.” And even as the show responds to all that technological drift, she hopes its effect is simple and human. “I want visitors to be delighted.”

Meet the Artists Behind Audacity: The 114th Annual Exhibition of Contemporary American Painting

The exhibition brings together four large-scale painters (Sally Egbert, Julia Jo, Sue McNally, and Walter Price) whose canvases radiate gesture and presence, inviting visitors into the physical presence of work shaped directly by human hands. Each selection embraces that physicality. One navigates gigantic, state-by-state landscapes after time spent outdoors. Another literally tosses paint onto canvas.

“Whether you’re using a brush, tossing paint like softballs, or pouring it the way Sally [Egbert] does,” Martha said, “there’s such physical pleasure in the act itself. What painting is, for all of these artists, is the pure joy of painting—the tactility, the sensuousness, the sheer joy of a pure color.”

The Experience of Maier Museum

The Maier Museum is intentionally welcoming. Admission is always free and there are various community programs, talks, and even camps for kids and other programs for high school students. Johnson wants a visit to the Maier to feel as normal as a stop at the library or a walk in the park.

“The default for a lot of people is thinking they don’t know enough to come here, or that it’s going to be expensive,” she said. “There’s no test at the end. We’re not trying to stump anyone. We just want people to come in and spend time with the art.”

Staff members aim to offer visitors a “hook”—just enough context about process or history to spark curiosity—without flattening a painting into a lecture.
For many regulars, the museum’s permanent collection has become something of a community of familiar faces. Visitors return to particular works like old friends within the richly colored galleries.

Maier Museum’s Hours and Exhibition Details

Above all, this exhibition extends an invitation: slow down, step close, and let color work on you. As Johnson puts it, “I would love for people to have had a joyful experience—to feel that painting is still a vital force—and to have set their anxieties aside for a moment and get lost in the art.”

Audacity reminds us that standing in front of paintings can be as surprising and alive as hearing music on real speakers again. It turns up the volume on what it means to be human. And painting, it turns out, still has plenty left to say.

ON VIEW:
October 19, 2025 – March 8, 2026
More Information: maiermuseum.org
Hours: Wed–Sun, 1–5 p.m.

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Photo courtesy: VA250 Commission

The Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission is bringing the spirit of the American Revolution to cities all throughout Virginia, with an ambitious goal of visiting every middle school in Virginia.

A hands-on, interactive, and immersive “museum on wheels,” the VA250 Mobile Museum Experience titled Out of Many, One is housed in a quad-expandable tractor trailer that is traveling throughout Virginia and beyond. Guests visiting this unique traveling museum will embark on a journey through pivotal moments of our fight for freedom while learning about the Revolution’s key figures as well as the often-overlooked stories of the Indigenous Virginians, free and enslaved African Americans, and others whose efforts secured American independence.

Here, learners of all ages experience the Mobile Museum during its visit to the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History in May 2025.

Carly Fiorina, National Honorary Chair of the Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission

“America Was Made in Virginia”

Carly Fiorina, National Honorary Chair of the Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission, shares why the Commonwealth’s story—and its citizens—are central to understanding who we are as a nation and who we aspire to be.

Q&A with Carly Fiorina, National Honorary Chair –Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission (VA250)

As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026, Virginia is preparing to take center stage. The Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission—known as VA250—is leading the Commonwealth’s commemoration of the Semiquincentennial, a nationwide reflection on America’s founding, growth, and ongoing story. Through statewide programs, local events, and educational initiatives, VA250 invites Virginians to explore how “America was made in Virginia”—and what that means today.

VA250’s theme is “America was made in Virginia.” What does that phrase mean to you personally, and why do you think it’s an important message for Virginians today?

To me, “America was made in Virginia” is a reminder that this Commonwealth was the testing ground for so many of the ideas that still define us as a nation. The promise and the problems of America showed up here first. Early experiments in representative government, but also the grave injustices of slavery and displacement. Saying “America was made in Virginia” isn’t a slogan, it’s a responsibility. It means Virginians have a special opportunity—and obligation—to understand our history honestly, take pride in our progress, learn from our failures, and carry those lessons forward. If we do that well, we help the entire country remember who we are and what we’re capable of.

Virginia played a defining role in our nation’s founding—from early democracy in Jamestown to leadership in independence. How do you see those stories continuing to shape America’s identity?

Our national identity has always been rooted in ideas, not bloodlines or borders. Many of those ideas were debated, refined, and fought over here in Virginia. The notion that government derives its just powers from the consent of the governed, that people have inherent rights, that power must be restrained—those aren’t abstract concepts. They emerged from real people, on real soil, making real choices. When we remember that, we stop treating our system as something automatic or guaranteed. We see it instead as an inheritance that must be renewed. Virginia’s founding stories remind us that America is a work in progress, shaped by character and courage, one generation at a time.

As National Honorary Chair, what aspects of Virginia’s history do you most hope people rediscover through VA250 events?

I hope people rediscover the full story. Not just the familiar names and dates, but the countless men and women—well-known and unknown—whose grit, faith, ingenuity, and sacrifice moved history forward. I want Virginians to see how enslaved people, Native communities, women, immigrants, soldiers, and citizens all played essential roles. I also want us to reconnect with the idea that ordinary people, close to the problems, have always been essential to the solutions. When people see themselves in the story—not just as spectators of history, but as heirs to it—they’re more likely to engage, to serve, and to lead in their own communities.

The Semiquincentennial is both a celebration and a reflection. What do you hope Americans take away from this milestone?

I hope Americans come away with a renewed sense of gratitude and responsibility. Gratitude that we live in the only nation in history founded on ideas about human dignity and self-government—and responsibility to live up to those ideas. A 250th anniversary is not about nostalgia; it’s about perspective. We see how far we’ve come, how much we’ve overcome, and also where we’ve fallen short. Holding pride and pain together is hard work, but it’s what mature nations do. If we can do that together, we’ll emerge from 2026 with a stronger sense of who we are and what we owe to one another as citizens.

As a former Fortune 50 CEO and Virginia resident, how do you see leadership—past and present—playing a role in our state’s story?

Leadership is always about more than titles. In Virginia’s story and in my own experience, the most important leaders are often the ones closest to the problem who choose to act with courage and integrity. Our history is filled with famous leaders, but it’s also filled with teachers, pastors, entrepreneurs, parents, and community organizers who saw a need and stepped forward. Good leadership always holds freedom and responsibility together, rights and duties together. When leaders—whether in business, government, or the community—remember that their job is to serve, to listen, and to leave things better than they found them, they carry on the best of Virginia’s legacy.

If you could choose one takeaway for every Virginian to remember about our nation’s 250th anniversary, what would it be?

I would want every Virginian to remember that our history is not just something to admire or critique from a distance—it is something we inherit and continue. We are the stewards of a remarkable experiment in self-government, born in large part here in Virginia. That experiment has endured through wars, crises, injustices, and profound change because generation after generation chose to work toward a more perfect union. The question for each of us is simple: knowing this history, what will I do—right where I am—to strengthen my community, serve my neighbors, and live up to the ideals that made America possible in the first place? 

A nurse practitioner started Endura Wellness after personal medical struggles and now serves the community with personalized healthcare

By: Megan L. Horst | Photos By: Ashlee Glen

Brittany Brown, a nurse practitioner and owner of Endura Wellness, started her practice after experiencing health issues and frustrations with the traditional healthcare system.

“I had been medically gaslighted so many times,” Brown said. After multiple miscarriages and visiting numerous doctors who never discovered the root cause of her struggles, Brown finally found someone who would listen to her and look for the underlying cause of her health issues. Her personal struggle with her health led her to open Endura Wellness and instilled in her an even greater passion for helping people.

Left to Right: Brittany Brown, Owner, Nurse Practitioner; Daria Ray, Receptionist; Megan Ringi, Registered Nurse

“If I can take my pain and make it a purpose and help others, then that’s what I’m going to do,” Brown said.

At Endura Wellness, they strive to offer personalized healthcare that finds and treats the root cause, rather than simply masking symptoms. In the months that they have been open, they have grown significantly, and she predicts an expansion in the future.

“It’s been a blessing,” Brown said, “As a human being, I was obviously very fearful in going into business by myself, but the good Lord—He literally has led us the entire way. So we are very very blessed, that’s for sure.”

The practice offers a variety of services, including bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, a weight loss program, IV therapy, and ozone therapy. Brown explained that she treats a lot of autoimmune disorders, and her practice is the only one in Lynchburg that offers high-dose IV vitamin C and ozone.

“We have a lot of patients who use [IV therapy] in combination with chemotherapy and radiation for cancer treatment or autoimmune disorders,” she said.
Ozone therapy is more commonly used in Europe. In the United States, it is considered to be a more controversial treatment.

“We use it for many different modalities, but ultimately what it does is help boost the immune system,” Brown said.

She has found ozone therapy helpful in supporting patients with autoimmune disorders, respiratory disorders, and other chronic conditions.

“Ultimately, what it’s doing is boosting white blood cells in order for your body to start fighting against whatever is going on,” she said.

The treatment typically takes about an hour and a half. The process involves using the patient’s own blood, which is infused with O3, an extra oxygen molecule. The blood is then slowly infused back under UV therapy.

“It’s not for everybody…there are safeguards behind it,” Brown said. “But it’s one of those things where the population that gets it and needs it, [finds] it very, very helpful to them.”

One of her passions is helping men and women balance their hormones, as she understands firsthand how hormone imbalances can affect overall health and daily life. Although when you think of hormone imbalances, it is more common to think of women’s struggles, she explained that men suffer from hormone imbalances as well. Men’s hormonal imbalances are often overlooked.

“A lot of times [men] present with severe fatigue or anxiety,” Brown said. “As their testosterone starts to drop, it puts them in grave danger of prostate cancer, dementia, and all of the above.” Hormone-related issues are becoming more of a problem, and Brown said she is seeing more hormone imbalances than ever before.

“And that’s probably multi-factorial,” she explained. “It can be environmental, obviously, a lot of things that we put on our hair and our skin have neurotoxins in them or endocrine toxins.”

Brown said that everyone will eventually go through hormone decline with age, but recently, they are seeing a trend of younger people having issues.

“We’re seeing men at the age of 35 declining at least one percent if not more per year,” Brown said. “Women, we’re seeing in their earlier 30s now instead of pre-menopause, which is thought to be in the 40s.” She explained that genetics can also play a role in hormone function.

Her method uses a combination of science-driven care and a more holistic approach.

“I try to take a very integrative approach as much as possible,” she said. Looking in-depth at thyroid, gut function, and quality sleep are just a few of the things she considers when looking at someone’s overall health.

She believes one aspect of her practice that sets Endura Wellness apart from others is that she personally takes time with every patient and listens to their story.

“When you come see me, especially for the first time, you get a whole hour with me,” Brown said. “I like to dive into your history and ask questions.
I want you to bring questions. With that is education. You cannot advocate for yourself if you don’t know what is going on in your own body. So, my job is to teach you that.”

She looks at her patients as part of her family and wants to be accessible to them. They have designed their practice to be welcoming and family oriented, creating an atmosphere that feels safe and open to everyone.

“My goal is to help everybody,” Brown said. “As many people as I possibly can.”

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Summary. To create the list, the Lynchburg Living contracted DataJoe Research to facilitate an online peer-voting process and Internet research process. DataJoe Research is a software and research company specializing in data collection and verification, and conducts various nominations across the United States on behalf of publishers. To create the list, DataJoe Research facilitated an online peer-voting process. We paired this with an Internet research process to identify success characteristics. DataJoe checked and confirmed that each published winner had, at time of review, a current, active license status with the appropriate state regulatory board. If we were not able to find evidence of a lawyer’s current, active registration with the state regulatory board, that lawyer was excluded from the list. In addition, we checked available public sources to identify lawyers disciplined for an infraction by the state regulatory board. These entities were excluded from the list. Finally, DataJoe presented the tallied result to Lynchburg Living for its final review and adjustments.

Final note. We recognize that there are many good lawyers who are not shown in this representative list. This is only a sampling of the huge array of talented professionals within the region. Inclusion in the list is based on the opinions of responding lawyers in the region. We take time and energy to ensure fair voting, although we understand that the results of this survey nomination and Internet research campaign are not an objective metric. We certainly do not discount the fact that many, many good and effective lawyers may not appear on the list.

Disclaimers. DataJoe uses best practices and exercises great care in assembling content for this list. DataJoe does not warrant that the data contained within the list are complete or accurate. DataJoe does not assume, and hereby disclaims, any liability to any person for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions herein whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. All rights reserved. No commercial use of the information in this list may be made without written permission from DataJoe.

Questions? For research/methodology questions, contact the research team at surveys@datajoe.com.

If you’re looking for a winter escape that has a little bit of everything and is just a short drive from Lynchburg, Appomattox is a fantastic choice. This small town offers one of the most charming and unexpectedly cozy winter getaways in Central Virginia.

By: Abby Price

I grew up here before moving to Lynchburg, and I can personally vouch for its small-town feel, quiet historic streets, welcoming community, and fun things to do in the winter. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, learn something new, and truly savor the season.

How to Reach Appomattox from Lynchburg

Appomattox is easy to get to from Lynchburg; it’s just a 30-minute drive southeast on U.S. Route 460. It’s a scenic drive through rolling countryside that feels especially peaceful in winter.

Start Your Morning with Coffee and Antique Shopping

Start your winter morning with a stop at Baine’s Books & Coffee, where the scent of freshly brewed coffee and warm pastries instantly sets the tone for a cheerful day ahead.

I’ve been browsing the shelves here since I was a small child, and it’s still my favorite place in town to order a coffee and wander through the aisles in search of my next good read.

It’s the perfect spot to settle in with a pastry and a book as you ease into a cold winter morning.

Once you’re warmed up, I recommend wandering over to Yesterday’s Bazaar; it’s the perfect place to look for antiques downtown. This homey store is perfect for escaping the cold while browsing for vintage decor, collectible finds, or that perfect, unique souvenir to commemorate your time in Appomattox.

Spend Midday Immersed in Appomattox’s Historic Past

Plan to spend your late morning and early afternoon exploring The American Civil War Museum, followed by the Appomattox Court House National Historical Park, where winter turns the historic village into a peaceful retreat. With fewer visitors this time of year, it often feels like you have the entire place to yourself.

I recommend starting at The American Civil War Museum so you can stay warm inside while diving into the stories, artifacts, and context that shaped the end of the Civil War.

It’s a rich introduction to the events that unfolded here—and it also gives the day a little time to warm up before you head outdoors to walk the actual grounds where some of our nation’s most pivotal moments occurred.

Enjoy a Cozy Lunch in Town

When you need a bite to eat, head to Taco Wagon for flavorful Mexican food. Known for their friendly service, tasty salsas, al pastor tacos, and hearty fajitas,
it’s hard to go wrong with anything on the menu. It’s the perfect spot for a quick lunch before heading back out to explore more of what Appomattox has to offer.

Spend the Afternoon Wandering Around Holliday Lake State Park

If you’re anything like me in the winter, you enjoy finding a balance—staying warm inside, but still getting outside long enough to enjoy the crisp air without freezing.

After you’ve warmed up with lunch, head over to the beautiful Holliday Lake State Park for a refreshing walk.

If you’re in the mood for a longer adventure, the Lakeshore Trail circles the entire lake and stretches about 6.5 miles, typically taking around two and a half hours to complete. If you prefer something shorter, the Dogwood Loop is less than half a mile and can be finished in about 20 minutes.

End Your Day with a Relaxing Dinner

End your evening with dinner at Carmine’s Pizzeria, where you’ll find classic New York-style pizzas and delicious cannolis. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day spent exploring historic sites, browsing antique shops, and taking in the town’s charm.

While traditional pepperoni and cheese pizzas are always a hit from Carmine’s, the buffalo chicken pizza is a must-try for anyone looking to add a little extra kick to their meal.

Where to Stay Overnight

If you’re looking for an overnight stay with character, I recommend The Babcock House. With six bedrooms and one suite, it offers just the right amount of rooms so it feels lively without ever feeling too crowded. The breakfast here is also exceptional.

For a more traditional hotel experience, the Appomattox Inn and Suites is an excellent choice, offering plenty of rooms and a convenient location.

Even More to Explore in Appomattox If You Have Extra Time

If you have a little extra time in your schedule or you’re spending the weekend in Appomattox, consider adding Clover Hill Village to your itinerary. This historic village, created by the Appomattox County Historical Society, features several buildings that offer visitors a glimpse into the past.

Highlights include the Civil War Winter Quarters, built to show what Confederate soldiers used during the winter months, Wesley Chapel, one of the oldest churches in the county, and Hamilton’s Blacksmith Shop, where metalwork once took place.

The area is made up of original structures that were relocated, along with carefully replicated buildings based on old photographs. Altogether, it offers locals and visitors a look at Appomattox’s rich history and what life was like in the 1800s and early 1900s.

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The Lynchburg Living Best Of Awards are the result of an online voting contest on lynchburgliving.com, held from August-September 2025.

Voting took place for the entire duration of the contest with write-in nominations accepted for the first few weeks. Readers could vote one time per email address in as many or as few categories that they preferred. The winners listed inside this section are the ones that received the most votes.

250 Years of Lynchburg’s Story

By: Megan Loranger

Next year, the United States will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Across the nation, localities are marking this milestone through the America 250 initiative, which invites communities to reflect on their own histories and the people who shaped them. In Virginia, the effort is known as VA250, and here in Lynchburg, it takes the form of LYH250—a yearlong commemoration highlighting the individuals and stories that define Central Virginia’s past and present.

One of the signature projects of LYH250 is a forthcoming book titled A Good and Pleasant Company, set to be published in 2026. The book will feature biographies of 250 Lynchburg residents who lived and worked in the city between 1776 and 2026, capturing the breadth of lives that have contributed to the region’s story.
Ashleigh Meyer, a member of the LYH250 committee and one of more than 70 contributing writers, helped research and write several of the biographies. “We decided to create a very accessible collection of bios appropriate for students and adults alike,” Meyer said. “We also wanted something tangible to commemorate the 250th anniversary that could contribute to the ongoing conversation about regional history.”

Many of the featured names will be familiar—such as John Lynch and Anne Spencer—while others may be new to readers. Together, they represent a sweeping tapestry of Central Virginia’s history, from educators and community leaders to inventors, athletes, and advocates for freedom.

For Meyer, the project was both educational and deeply meaningful. “I came across people I hadn’t heard of before, and getting to know their stories was incredibly impactful,” she said. “It reminded me that we can all have an impact on our community and our time.”

The collaborative nature of the book reflects the spirit of the celebration itself. With contributions from more than 70 local authors, researchers, and historians, A Good and Pleasant Company stands as a true community effort—one that honors those who came before us while inspiring future generations to recognize their own role in the region’s ongoing story.

“I think there’s a lot more history under our feet than a lot of people realize, and I hope this book helps to bring more awareness,” Meyer said. “I also hope readers will remember the lives of the people who came before us and respect the work that they did—no matter how big or small—to contribute to the world we live in today.”

At its core, A Good and Pleasant Company reminds us that revolution isn’t a single moment in time but something continually renewed with each generation.
Pre-orders for the book are now open through Old City Cemetery for $15. Copies will also be distributed to public spaces and schools throughout the region. To reserve yours, visit oldcitycemetery.ticketspice.com/a-good-and-pleasant-company-pre-order.

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A Q&A on the VA250 Celebrations

As Lynchburg’s Long-Awaited Riverfront Park Amphitheater Nears Completion, Excitement Builds for a Venue Poised to Reshape the City’s Cultural and Economic Landscape.

By: Olivia Carter / Photos Courtesy: City of Lynchburg

After years of anticipation, construction, and community chatter, Lynchburg’s Riverfront Park Amphitheater is entering its final stretch toward completion.

The city of Lynchburg chose Mason Lane Entertainment to operate, run, and program the venue and its President and Owner, Ty McBride, is already envisioning what the amphitheater will mean not just for downtown, but for all of Central Virginia.

According to McBride, the amphitheater’s physical progress is moving quickly.

“The structure—the amphitheater itself—[it neared completion] in December,” he said, adding that final details will follow soon after. “We’ll probably have a punch list of things to get done in January, some testing that will go on.”

The timeline places the venue on track for its first public events in spring 2026, something McBride says he’s eager to deliver.

“Our goal is to do a couple of free shows, or at least one free show in April,” he said. “It’s a soft opening so we can test everything out.”

Full-scale, ticketed performances are expected to kick off in May.

Though the venue will undoubtedly serve local residents, McBride sees its reach extending far beyond Lynchburg city limits.

“This thing is going to be incredible.

It’s going to change how people view Lynchburg from a city itself,” he said. “People are going to come from Roanoke and Charlottesville to see shows here because they won’t be able to see them there.”

That broad appeal will come from a programming slate designed to cross genres, decades, and energy levels.

“We’ll bring all different types of programs—country, Americana, rock and roll, some old-school 80s type music, yacht rock—different genres for different people,” he said.

From national touring acts to multi-day festival concepts, he expects the venue to become a lively entry on regional concert calendars.

Lynchburg already has a roster of annual events, and McBride emphasized that Mason Lane doesn’t intend to disrupt that harmony.

“There’s already a lot of local, established events here in Lynchburg and they’re going to continue to be on the calendar. We’re not necessarily trying to rearrange things here,” he said.

Instead, he plans to partner with them and ensure the amphitheater complements, rather than replaces, existing community traditions.

He also hopes to plan new festivals with a local flavor.

“We might tie [local acts] into a blues festival or a jazz festival, maybe even connect it with food,” McBride said, adding that ideas range from barbecue festivals to oyster-themed events. “When you connect food and music together, it brings people together.”

Even emerging Lynchburg musicians aren’t off the table.

“We can put [local bands] on stage and really help them elevate their platform a little bit,” he said.

Some residents have wondered how the amphitheater will fit alongside existing venues like the Academy Center of the Arts. McBride says the relationship is friendly and collaborative.

“I’ve already met with them and we discussed exactly that—how do we not interfere with what they have going on versus them not interfering with us? We’ll work together. We’ll share schedules, and really just enhance each other more than compete,” he said.

While the venue is new, its design pays homage to Lynchburg’s past. McBride pointed out several details that make the amphitheater stand out architecturally.
“In the brick wall that’s on the back of the stage, the inlay is all historical brick from Lynchburg buildings,” he said.

“And then the front of the stage at the base, it’s all historic cobblestone from Lynchburg streets.”

He also highlighted the acoustical engineering.

“The arch of the stage itself is designed to push sound out. It’s incredibly sturdy. A hurricane won’t take that place out,” he said.

Parking and accessibility have long been hot topics downtown and McBride didn’t shy away from acknowledging the logistical realities.

“Parking is going to be a challenge,” he said, “But we have some solutions in place. We’re going to help with that through some shuttling. We’re working with the city on different plans.”

Still, he believes Lynchburg’s residents will adapt quickly once they develop their own concert-night routines—arriving early, grabbing dinner, exploring downtown, and lingering afterward.

“It will become part of the Lynchburg life, so to speak,” he said. And in doing so, it will amplify the visibility of existing businesses.
“It will open everybody’s eyes to these other great places.”

McBride said the amphitheater’s impact extends beyond live entertainment.

“This will actually become an economic generator for other businesses and for other companies to come to Lynchburg,” he said.

Companies scouting new cities look at the overall quality of life for their employees and a venue like this, he said, “puts a big stamp on Lynchburg.”

Consumer spending on experiences like events and festivals is the most efficient way to generate local tax revenue, both in direct spending on ticket sales but also indirectly to generate meals, sales and lodging revenue, Anna Bentson, Director of Communications & Public Engagement for the City of Lynchburg said.

“For example, $500 spent at a Lynchburg big box store generates $5 in sales tax for the locality,” she said. “The same $500 spent on experiences — at hotels, restaurants, and on event tickets — would generate about $39 worth of tax revenue. That kind of return—generated by those coming into the City to spend money—helps to relieve pressure on our existing local tax base and residents.”

According to the 2022 Economic Impact of Visitors in Virginia by Tourism Economics, spending by visitors to Lynchburg saved each Lynchburg household about $880 in annual state and local tax collections.

According to the Americans for the Arts’ Arts & Economic Prosperity report, when people attend a cultural event, they also spend on other activities—dining at a restaurant, paying for parking or public transportation, enjoying dessert after the show, and returning home to pay for child or pet care, Bentson said.

Based on the 224,677 audience surveys conducted for this study, the typical attendee spends $38.46 per person per event, in addition to the cost of event admission. Those who travel from out of town to attend arts or cultural entertainment events spend more, an average of more than $60 per person.

Bottom line, more visitors to the destination increases spending in restaurants, retail, transportation, lodging, and more associated with event attendance, across the city.

Despite running a Charlotte-based company, McBride has been coming to Lynchburg for about 30 years.

His weekly visits often include informal polling at restaurants, breweries, and shops.

“I’ll ask people, ‘What do you want to hear at this new venue?’ and get their input. I keep a list going,” he said. That level of community engagement is what will make the venue thrive, McBride said.

“The energy around this place is so palpable. It’s encouraging for us because we know we’re going to bring really good shows here,” he said.

“I have a feeling they’re going to be super successful right away.”

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Top 5 Times in Life You Should Call a Lawyer (and Why It’s Not Just for Crises)

When most people picture hiring a lawyer, they imagine a courtroom, a crisis, or a contract gone wrong. But in reality, some of the most important legal conversations happen quietly, well before any conflict begins. Everyday legal matters—like setting up a business, buying a home, or protecting digital assets—rarely make headlines, but they can have lasting financial and personal consequences if handled without guidance.

Here are five moments in life when picking up the phone to call a lawyer could save you money, time, and future headaches.

1. When You’re Starting a Business

Launching a business is exciting, but it’s also full of legal decisions that can have lasting consequences. Choosing the wrong business structure, for example, could expose your personal assets to liability or lead to higher taxes. A business attorney can help determine whether an LLC, S Corporation, or partnership best fits your goals, and draft the proper formation documents to protect you from future disputes.

Beyond formation, a lawyer can review vendor contracts, employee agreements, and intellectual property protections—key safeguards that are often overlooked when entrepreneurs rely on online templates. Even small oversights, like unclear profit-sharing terms or missing non-compete clauses, can snowball into significant issues later.

The foundation you build now will determine how well your business weathers challenges later. A well-structured business minimizes legal exposure and allows you to focus on growth instead of damage control.

2. When You’re Planning for the Future

Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy—it’s for anyone who wants a say in what happens to their assets, dependents, or healthcare decisions. Without a legally binding plan, the state determines how your property is distributed, which can lead to confusion, delays, and disputes among loved ones.

Working with an estate attorney ensures you have a will, power of attorney, and advanced healthcare directive that reflect your wishes. Depending on your situation, you may also benefit from setting up a trust to manage property, minimize taxes, or support a family member with special needs.

Many people mistakenly believe they can “get by” with a handwritten will or online form. However, these documents are often incomplete or unenforceable under Virginia law. Estate planning attorneys ensure your plans comply with state requirements and remain valid even as your circumstances change.

Having proper estate documents in place protects your family, your legacy, and your peace of mind.

3. When You’re Buying or Selling Property

Real estate transactions are among the most common—and most expensive—legal interactions the average person will ever have. A lawyer’s review of your purchase agreement, title, and closing documents can reveal issues that might otherwise be missed, such as unresolved liens, unclear boundaries, or improperly transferred ownership.

For buyers, a real estate attorney ensures contract contingencies, inspection results, and financing terms are clearly stated and enforceable. For sellers, legal counsel helps with disclosure obligations and limits liability after closing.

In commercial property transactions, an attorney’s role becomes even more critical, as zoning laws, lease terms, and liability exposure can significantly affect long-term profitability.

Real estate contracts are binding. Having a lawyer review them before you sign ensures that the investment you make today won’t turn into a dispute tomorrow.

4. When Your Life Moves Online

Digital privacy has become one of the most overlooked areas of personal and business law. From social media accounts and digital photos to cryptocurrency and cloud-stored documents, much of what we value now exists entirely online. Yet few people include these assets in their estate or business planning.

An attorney versed in digital privacy law can help you establish who has access to your digital accounts if you become incapacitated or pass away. They can also help businesses develop privacy policies and cybersecurity procedures that comply with data protection laws like the Virginia Consumer Data Protection Act.

For small businesses, the stakes are especially high: data breaches, even accidental ones, can result in penalties and loss of customer trust. Creating a formal privacy policy and clear data-handling plan can reduce this risk significantly.

Your digital presence is part of your legacy. Legal guidance ensures it’s protected, accessible, and compliant with evolving privacy regulations.

5. When You’re Facing a Major Life Transition

Marriage, divorce, adoption, retirement—life’s biggest milestones often come with legal implications that aren’t immediately obvious. Marriage may affect property ownership and beneficiary designations. Divorce can change tax obligations and estate plans. Retirement often triggers complex financial and healthcare decisions that require coordination between legal and financial advisors.

Even smaller transitions—such as adding a name to a deed, starting a new job, or taking in an aging parent—can benefit from a brief consultation to confirm what’s required under state law. A lawyer can review documents, clarify obligations, and prevent costly misunderstandings before they occur.

Life changes quickly, and legal paperwork doesn’t always keep up. Proactive planning ensures that your new chapter begins on solid ground.

A Different Way to Think About Legal Help

Legal advice isn’t just a reactive measure—it’s a preventive one. A single conversation with a lawyer at the right time can prevent years of complications, confusion, or regret.

Think of a lawyer as part of your personal advisory team—alongside your financial planner, accountant, and healthcare providers. Their expertise can help you make informed decisions, avoid common pitfalls, and protect what matters most.

Whether you’re signing a contract, growing a business, or simply planning for the future, taking a proactive approach to legal matters isn’t about anticipating conflict. It’s about ensuring clarity and confidence in every stage of life.