We are proud to announce the 2024 Lynchburg Living Community Champions—a group of dedicated individuals whose unwavering commitment to advocacy and service has significantly enhanced our community.

These champions work both within organizations and directly in the community to support vulnerable populations, providing essential resources and support to those in need. Their tireless efforts and selfless dedication exemplify the spirit of community engagement, making a profound impact on the lives of many.

We honor their contributions and celebrate their role in fostering a more inclusive and compassionate environment for all residents of Lynchburg. Their work inspires us all to join in the effort to create lasting positive change in our community.

 

 

Joe Girandola
Horizon Behavioral Health Project Director – Grant to Benefit Homeless Individuals

How did your journey of community service/philanthropy begin? What inspired you to start giving back to your community?

Through perspective and life experiences, I’ve always had a personal disposition toward helping people in need, which evolved into academic and professional pursuits over the years. I’ve continued to develop this mindset, and I can recall specifically when it gave life to a principle I hold dear, “If not you, then who?” Later in my journey, I developed another motto: Just show up. These words often inspire me to do the things I can do for people or volunteer when opportunities present, and they push me to challenge myself.

Can you describe the primary causes or initiatives you are passionate about? Are there specific issues or populations you are most dedicated to supporting? My work primarily focuses on populations experiencing disparate access to resources, such as youth or other vulnerable populations. Currently, alongside many other champions and organizations, I work with youth and families experiencing homelessness.

How do you think others can get involved or contribute to the causes you are passionate about? Many local champions for the community thrive off the generous giving of time and resources. To get involved, a person simply needs to ask, i.e., call a local organization whose mission you’d like to support, and they will provide guidance on how to get involved. Just show up.

In what ways can local businesses, organizations, or individuals better support community efforts? Any time a local business, organization, or individual gets involved to support the community the immediate and downstream positive impact can be overwhelming, even for just one person whose life circumstance significantly improves. To that end, simply start somewhere: if you have time, housing, work opportunities, or other resources, make those known by connecting with the agencies and individuals who serve to funnel these to people in need. The most important thing is to start somewhere.

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Kristin Marstin
Central Virginia Regional Rescue (CVRR) Volunteer / TNR Program Manager

How did your journey of community service/philanthropy begin? What inspired you to start giving back to your community?

My journey into community service began with a profound passion for animals. It started when I volunteered at a local shelter, where I was deeply moved by the stories of homeless animals. Witnessing their resilience and the difference compassionate care made sparked a commitment within me. The experience ignited a broader sense of responsibility to help those in need, leading me to explore various avenues of philanthropy. What began with a love for animals evolved into a lifelong dedication to community service, driven by the belief that every act of kindness, big or small, can make a meaningful impact.

Can you describe the primary causes or initiatives you are passionate about? Are there specific issues or populations you are most dedicated to supporting? I am deeply passionate about helping stray, homeless cats through TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return). TNR helps reduce overpopulation, ensures healthier colonies, provides vulnerable kittens with a chance for a better life, and reduces both overcrowding and euthanasia in shelters. My commitment to these animals and those who care for them fuels my drive to create lasting, impactful change.

What have been the most impactful moments or achievements in your community work? Is there a particular experience or accomplishment that stands out? One moment that will always stay with me is rescuing a kitten out of a storm drain manhole at Kroger here in Lynchburg; the community really came together to save that kitten. Employees of Kroger, my friend Shannon, and passerby all pitched in and cheered me on to help rescue this little kitten. I fostered the scared little kitten through CVRR and named her after the Kroger employee who first saw/heard the kitten and reached out for help—Bayley. Several weeks after her rescue, Bayley was then adopted by a manager from Kroger. Being a part of a rescue that brought the community together and had a happy ending really sticks with me.

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Kaleb Gay
Love LYH Market/Punk Rock Flea Market Lynchburg Coordinator & Curator

How did your journey of community service/philanthropy begin? What inspired you to start giving back to your community?

Our Market was born out of necessity: a desire for grassroots (wild, pollinating spaces) and free in every sense of the word. Our market fee is always sliding scale/negotiable—we want anyone who would like to participate to be able to do so.

Can you describe the primary causes or initiatives you are passionate about? Are there specific issues or populations you are most dedicated to supporting? Punk Rock Flea Market Lynchburg is about true community and the possibility of making a connection and some extra money through expression of self. Good for the whole soul (and in this economy)!

What have been the most impactful moments or achievements in your community work? Is there a particular experience or accomplishment that stands out? Over the five years that this project has been growing, we have had all ages and types of folks set up with us. If you feel comforted even for just a few moments, it is a victory in my eyes. The LoveLYH Market is a glimpse at wholeness within our pocket of the world. “Tend to the part of the garden you can touch,” says Jack Kornfield.

How do you think others can get involved or contribute to the causes you are passionate about? Going forward I would love to see more youth/children art. Speaking as the curious child in myself (“the creative adult is the child that survived”) I know the feeling that is kindled when something I made is enjoyed by another person. That connection is as pure as any I can think of.

Any final thoughts or messages you’d like to share with the community? The Market is a project of love—and it has so much potential.

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Nathaniel X. Marshall
BWX Technologies, Inc. Community Engagement Specialist

How did your journey of community service/philanthropy begin? What inspired you to start giving back to your community?

I became involved in a number of on-campus activities while at Lynchburg College, now the University of Lynchburg. After graduation and upon getting a job at BWXT, I found that I had some time on my hands to give back to the community. I decided to volunteer as a Big Brother with the Big Brothers Big Sisters Program. My community engagement took off from there.

What organizations or projects are you currently involved with? In what capacity do you work with these organizations? These are a few of my current activities: University of Lynchburg Board of Trustee (former Chair); United Way of Central Virginia volunteer (former chair and campaign chair); Virginia Board of Workforce Development board member (former Chair); Regional Workforce Investment Board board member (current Chair); Interfaith Outreach Association board member (current Chair); Vector Space board member, Salvation Army board member; Iron Lives, Inc. board member, Lynchburg Area Center for Independent Living (LACIL) board member (current Chair); CVCC member of various committees (former Chair of Local Board); Roads to Recovery board member. And then there is LAYSi – Lynchburg Area Youth Sports Initiative! It has been one of the best groups that I have been associated with for bringing businesses, non-profits, universities, colleges, schools, sororities, fraternities, teams, students, and volunteers together for a common cause.

What have been the most impactful moments or achievements in your community work? Is there a particular experience or accomplishment that stands out? Through my various volunteer opportunities, I have met and shook hands with President Obama; discussed workforce issues with state leaders from across the country; worked with the last 5 governors of Virginia on workforce issues; sat at the table with presidents of state and private universities to discuss training needs. That’s pretty good for an old Bedford County kid.

How do you think others can get involved or contribute to the causes you are passionate about? Raise their hand! And show up – more than once!

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Sarah Quarantotto
Miriam’s House Executive Director

How did your journey of community service/philanthropy begin? What inspired you to start giving back to your community?

As a child I was always inspired by the stories of incredible individuals like Martin Luther King, Jr. and Mother Theresa who gave so much of themselves to improve the world around them. While I knew that my story would not be quite as grand, I also knew that I wanted the story of my life to reflect one of service to others. When selecting an education and career path, the field of social work really resonated with my values and I have loved being a social worker throughout my career.

Can you describe the primary causes or initiatives you are passionate about? Are there specific issues or populations you are most dedicated to supporting? Early in my career I worked in community mental health with low-income families but quickly realized that it was very challenging for a household to focus on their mental health when their basic needs were not being met. Switching from a primary focus in my career from mental health to basic needs like housing has been incredibly fulfilling as this is the very foundation to an individual’s, families’ and community’s wellbeing.

What have been the most impactful moments or achievements in your community work? I am really proud of the ways I have led the growth and expansion of Miriam’s House over the past decade. Growing from an agency that served less than 50 people experiencing homelessness a year to now serving over 500 has required a great deal of commitment and partnership from our staff, board, volunteers, donors and partners and I am really proud to have led this effort.

How do you think others can get involved or contribute to the causes you are passionate about? It has been so encouraging to see the variety of ways individuals have contributed to ending homelessness in this community. From landlord partners who have provided our families with a second or third chance at housing, to local employers who have provided job opportunities for single moms trying to support their families, to individuals who contribute small monthly amounts to support our mission, to volunteers who make Miriam’s House welcoming to those who live here.

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Mark Dalton
Terry Volkswagen Subaru General Manager

How did your journey of community service/philanthropy begin? What inspired you to start giving back to your community?

At Terry, Inc., giving back has always been part of our DNA. Working alongside the team, especially in partnership with Subaru of America, has inspired me to embrace the importance of paying it forward. Their unwavering commitment to the community reminds me that success transcends business—it’s about making a real difference in the lives of others. I feel privileged to have the resources and support to contribute, and I take that responsibility to heart.

Can you describe the primary causes or initiatives you are passionate about? At Terry, I’ve found a strong commitment to supporting youth and pets in need, which aligns perfectly with my own values. Through Subaru’s Love Promise initiative, we give back monthly and take pride in participating in events like youth turkey and duck hunts and technical center partnerships. These initiatives not only create growth opportunities but also ensure we’re making a difference in the lives of vulnerable groups. Being part of a company that prioritizes these values inspires me to contribute even more to our community.

What have been the most impactful moments or achievements in your community work? One of our most impactful initiatives has been partnering with the Campbell County Technical Center. Each year, we host students at Terry, Inc., offering them hands-on experience in the automotive industry. Over the years, several students have transitioned into full-time employees, which speaks to the success of the program. Watching them grow from students to professionals has been incredibly rewarding and reinforces our commitment to youth empowerment and workforce development.

Additionally, through our work with Subaru’s Love Promise, we’ve made a difference by supporting organizations like the Lynchburg Humane Society, Meals on Wheels, and local schools. These partnerships have allowed us to stay connected to the community, contribute to causes that matter, and give back in ways that positively impact lives.

How do you think others can get involved or contribute to the causes you are passionate about? Volunteering time can make a huge impact. Organizations like Meals on Wheels and the Lynchburg Humane Society always need help. Even a few hours of your time can contribute meaningfully and strengthen the community.

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Bishop S.Y. Younger
The Ramp Church International Senior Pastor

What inspired you to start giving back to your community?

My philanthropic inspiration has to be my mother and grandmother. We didn’t have a lot of worldly possessions but whatever we had they were more than willing to share it. I watched my mother take a plastic bag and go through our cabinets to give a lady in the neighborhood food for dinner. My grandmother took care of other people’s children while the parents got on their feet. The house was small and was already filled to capacity, but she and grandfather always had a way of squeezing one more.

Can you describe the primary causes or initiatives you are passionate about? I often feel that my heart is pulled into so many directions that I get overwhelmed. I’m learning to serve what’s in front of me. Recently I discovered that the City of Lynchburg had a homeless bed deficit. I’ll be honest I tried to look away hoping that someone else would pick up this torch, but I couldn’t ignore the need. I shared with my church that the mandate to take care of the homeless is a core value of our Christian faith. Our own Savior was faced with a similar problem at his birth. Our church along with other local churches will be partnering together opening the Refuge on Memorial this December. This facility will house the unsheltered in our city.

How do you think others can get involved or contribute to the causes you are passionate about? With all of our initiatives we’re always open to collaboration and partnership with like-minded people and organizations. Contributions are always needed but the contributions do not always have to be monetary. There are individuals who may be willing to contribute time. Anyone interested can go to our website www.therampchurch.com for the Refuge on Memorial and they can go to bishopyounger.com for the B. Younger Academy in Pakistan.

How do you stay motivated and energized in your work, especially during challenging times?

Doing nonprofit work while utilizing mostly volunteers with limited funds can be very exhausting. What keeps me energized and motivated is that I actually believe that I’m walking out a purpose that’s greater than me. I sincerely do not believe that any of us are successful until we have made someone else’s life better. When I start feeling overwhelmed, I stop and center myself. I remind myself of how far we have come and then rehearse the testimony of that journey.

By the time I’ve been considering those things I am quickly reminded that anything that I’ve accomplished is because God provided. I often say if it’s God’s will then it’s God’s bill.

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Sarah E. Blankenship
Community Enthusiast
Organizations: Central Virginia Academy for Nonprofit Excellence (CVANE), Pierce Street Gateway & Pierce Street Community Garden, Literacy Advisors of Campbell County, LYH Nonprofits, Social Solutions

How did your journey of community service/philanthropy begin? What inspired you to start giving back to your community?

During my time at Bank of the James, I had the privilege of meeting Vickie Spencer, who selflessly dedicated herself to serving her community. She was a great inspiration to me and taught me the importance of contributing to meaningful causes, not just through financial support, but also through acts of service. My involvement in Leadership Lynchburg further fueled this passion, as it presented us with a community challenge and allowed us to brainstorm the best ways to address it. This is how the Pierce Street Community Garden came to fruition.

Can you describe the primary causes or initiatives you are passionate about?

Are there specific issues or populations you are most dedicated to supporting? I am deeply committed to breaking down barriers in our community. Issues such as food insecurity, job preparedness, and financial wellness not only impact individuals directly but also hinder our entire community from reaching its full potential.

What have been the most impactful moments or achievements in your community work? Is there a particular experience or accomplishment that stands out? The most significant accomplishment in my endeavors thus far has been the establishment of the Pierce Street Community Garden. As a member of Leadership Lynchburg Class 45, our team was tasked with addressing food insecurity. Leveraging our diverse skill sets, we conducted thorough research on the issue and developed viable solutions. Through engagements with various non-profit organizations, we identified a substantial food desert within the Pierce Street Historic Renaissance District characterized by inadequate access to fresh produce, limited transportation, and the absence of nearby grocery stores. To address this issue, our team, known as Big Hearts, collaborated with Pierce Street Gateway to construct a raised bed garden on their premises. Our garden’s dimensions and design were informed by research into Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) recommendations for raised bed gardens. By partnering with local establishments such as Lowe’s in Madison Heights and JMJ, The Landscape Supply Center, we managed to construct the garden without incurring any out-of-pocket expenses. Engaging with the local community enabled us to ascertain their produce preferences, and subsequently, we collaborated with Lynchburg Grows to acquire the appropriate seeds. The success of this project has been made possible through the contributions of numerous organizations, which continue to support the initiative to this day.

How do you think others can get involved or contribute to the causes you are passionate about? I strongly encourage anyone with the desire and capacity to make a difference to take action. There is no greater satisfaction than giving without expecting anything in return. SHARE Greater Lynchburg provides a valuable directory of nonprofit organizations, their requirements, upcoming events, and additional information. If you are considering getting involved,
I recommend starting by exploring their resources.

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Dr. Mason Bates
Bates Family Orthodontics
Orthodontist / Owner

How did your journey of community service/philanthropy begin? What inspired you to start giving back to your community?

From its inception, Bates Family Orthodontics has been committed to building lasting relationships that allow our team to love, serve, empower, and impact our community. I consider it both an obligation and a calling to give back to the wonderful community that not only supports my practice, but also that I am raising my family in. I once heard a speaker say in regards to living generously, “we are meant to be rivers, not reservoirs.” That stuck with me and I decided that no matter where I was at in my career, I would strive to operate from a position of constantly flowing generosity towards my community.

Can you describe the primary causes or initiatives you are passionate about? Are there specific issues or populations you are most dedicated to supporting? Several areas that I am particularly passionate about are: youth ministry/mentorship, helping those who are lacking in resources, oral hygiene/dental health education, and preventing/ending human trafficking.

What have been the most impactful moments or achievements in your community work? Is there a particular experience or accomplishment that stands out? The leadership of Park View Community Mission and I have been working on an Oral Health Initiative which would incorporate dental hygiene items into their already established Food for Thought program. Unfortunately, many children in our local community do not have access to essential dental hygiene products (toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, etc.), placing them at a significant disadvantage in maintaining good oral health. This is partly because the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) does not cover hygiene items, and the price of these items has increased. This contributes to an increased risk for dental problems (early childhood caries, early loss of teeth, etc.) that can detriment the overall well-being of these children (psychosocial problems, inability to focus on learning due to pain, negative perception by peers, etc.).

How do you stay motivated and energized in your work, especially during challenging times? Passion. I love what I do. I’ve also got a pretty great support system in my family, my team at work, and my friends which certainly helps.

It’s important to be honest and lean on those around you for encouragement or help when it’s needed. We aren’t meant to operate alone.

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Blake Bryant
Puzzled Car Shows/Puzzled Events CEO/Founder

How did your journey of community service/philanthropy begin? What inspired you to start giving back to your community?

My wife, Andrea Bryant, and my sister, Jennifer Bryant Foster, inspired me with all the good work they do and that made me want to do more.

What organizations or projects are you currently involved with? I am passionate about anything having to do with children and autism awareness. I am involved with Amazement Square, the Foster Foundation, and Puzzled Events. For the Foster Foundation and Amazement Square I am an advocate. I am the CEO of Puzzled Events.

What have been the most impactful moments or achievements in your community work? Is there a particular experience or accomplishment that stands out? I’ve won lots of awards, been on the cover of magazines, and been on multiple media platforms, but none of that is as rewarding as seeing the smiles on the children’s faces that I have helped.

Who or what has been the biggest influence on your work in the community? Are there individuals, organizations, or experiences that have shaped your approach to service?

The biggest influences in my life have been my sister, Jennifer Bryant Foster, and my wife, Andrea Bryant. Seeing them give to the community has been the spark that I needed to begin giving back to the community.

How do you think others can get involved or contribute to the causes you are passionate about? Others can help by volunteering and offering a hand to a child in need.

How do you stay motivated and energized in your work, especially during challenging times? Whenever I get down, I think about the children I am helping and that helps me to keep going.

Any final thoughts or messages you’d like to share with the community? Children on the autism spectrum struggle everyday. We all can take some of their struggle away by offering a helping hand to them.

A Day in Pompeii Is Changing the Perception of Female-Fronted Metal Music

By: Olivia Carter  |  Photos by: Ashlee Glen

Angry music for happy people.” This is how members of local band A Day in Pompeii describe their music.

The heavy rock and metal band describe their sound as a mix of intense, emotional music aimed to uplift and energize listeners. While the band has a wealth of original material, they also perform covers to engage audiences and draw them in. 

The band formed last year and today includes Anna Tracy, Candy Phelps, Jonathan May, and Brian Honeycutt.

For Tracy and Phelps, who are sisters, music has always been a family affair.

“Candy and I have always been in music together. It’s a family kind of thing,” Tracy said.

Phelps, the bassist and vocalist for A Day in Pompeii, has always felt a deep connection to music.

“I’ve always felt drawn to be involved in music in one way or another for as long as I can remember,” she said.

Creating, performing, writing, and recording music is not just an activity—it’s a part of her identity.

“It’s part of who we are,” she said.

May, the guitarist and harsh vocalist for the band, said he became involved after he asked Tracy to sing on one of the songs in the band he was playing for at the time.

The collaboration went well, and an idea formed.

“We should start a band,” he suggested, and the rest, as they say, is history.

The origin of the band’s name, A Day in Pompeii, stems from a question at May’s workplace: If you could go anywhere in history without affecting the timeline or fearing death, where would you go?

May’s answer was, “the last day in Pompeii.” He pitched this idea as a band name, and Tracy immediately saw its appeal.

“If I read that, I’m going to click on it. It says metal, it says rock, it’s heavy, and it’s catchy,” Tracy said.

Despite their demanding schedules, the band remains committed to producing high-quality music.

“It’s a challenge to do it when you have a full-time job and a family, but we get it done. We have a high standard of what we want to sound like,” Tracy said.

The band meets weekly to rehearse, working on songs individually at home, and coming together to perfect their sound which blends heavy and melodic elements.

“We meet once a week, rehearse, and practice. We work on our songs individually at home, and when we come together, it’s like a group project where everyone does their part,” she said.

Tracy, who has a background in rock, acapella, and gospel music, brings a fresh dynamic to the band.

“I’ve never been in a band where I was singing with a male voice. The harsh vocals from John are new and exciting for me,” she said.

Despite the male-dominated genre, she believes there is a place for women in metal.

The genre already has plenty of women in it, Tracy said.

“These women have been around for like two decades. So it’s not new. As for A Day in Pompeii, I guess the uniqueness for us is we really like to have the harmonies in the layers of female vocals against harsh vocals and you’ll get that from us,” she said. “If you hear our songs, you recognize it as us because you have those beautiful harmonies on top of the melody, which is all female. And then you have harsh vocals coming in with John.”

There have been preconceived notions about female-fronted bands in the hard rock and metal genres, Phelps said, and she finds it perplexing that some people view female-fronted bands as deliberately going against the grain.

“Hard rock and metal were never meant to be just male voices or just female voices,” she said.

The genre, she believes, is for everyone and their music should be appreciated for its authenticity rather than judged by outdated stereotypes.

The band said it has had a difficult time getting booked at local venues.

“It’s really challenging for an original metal band with female singers to get in these venues,” Tracy said. “Venue owners need to take a risk and give us the opportunity. Lynchburg wants metal and they will show up if given the chance.”

Most live music events take place in restaurants or businesses that double as music spaces, Phelps said.

“[Venues] think people only want to hear music they’ve heard a million times before,” she said.

The band has a vision for the future of Lynchburg’s music scene. They hope to see more original bands like theirs on stage and to be a part of a thriving local music community.

“We want to play our town and have the support of local fans. We believe Lynchburg has a lot of talented musicians and we want to be a part of that scene,” Tracy said.

A Day in Pompeii is determined to bring heavy metal back to Lynchburg and to change preconceived notions about female-fronted metal bands.

“We want to play our town and have the support of local fans. We believe Lynchburg has a lot of talented musicians and we want to be a part of that scene,” Tracy said.

When asked about the band’s sound, Phelps said she finds it challenging to compare themselves to other bands.

“We all have different influences. We sound like A Day in Pompeii,” she said confidently.

The band’s music is rooted in their local experiences and reflects their own lives.

“The songs we write are an expression of people who live where you live,” Phelps said.

She said the music resonates with the struggles, joys, and experiences of their community.

 “Give it a chance because you might find something that connects with you,” she said.

A goal for A Day in Pompeii is to create a deep connection with their audience.

“We don’t just write songs; we build soundscapes. We want listeners to feel what we feel when we play,” May said.

The band strives to evoke a range of emotions, from headbanging excitement to goosebumps-inducing epic moments.

May said the band is a prime example of creativity and taking a risk.

“Don’t be afraid to shoot your shot,” he said. “Don’t be afraid to break through the stereotypes because that’s what we’re doing.”  

Not sure where to go for your oral health or dental treatments in the Lynchburg area?

Look no further than the experts referenced in our Area Dental Guide. From braces for your kids to the dental professionals you want in your corner when there’s an issue, we have you covered.

Two Loft Owners are Ready to Restore Downtown’s Historical Spaces

By: Megan Williams  |  Photos by: Ashlee Glen

For so many, Lynchburg is a place of promise. Its varied terrain, historical charm, and quaint communities are what attract so many to the Hill City year after year—including Allyssa Martinez and Scott Campbell.

“In August 2021, we sold our home in Utah, packed everything into a storage unit and, with our dog Bear, set off on the journey to find our new home, which ultimately led to us finding Lynchburg and falling in love with the city,” said Martinez. “ We especially loved the downtown and the history which it told. It was an ideal location being close to so much culture, art, entertainment, food, and recreation. The downtown is something out of a story book.”

Martinez and Campbell fell in love with our small city on the river.

“The stone curbs and sidewalks, with historical brick sidewalks lining the neighborhoods surrounding the downtown—Lynchburg is definitely a hidden gem,” she continued.

“We were walking downtown and it’s what sold us on Lynchburg,” Campbell added. “We looked everywhere—Forest, Boonsboro, Madison Heights—but it wasn’t downtown.”

Martinez and Campbell had been looking at many different cities around the country for their next home, going so far as putting areas into a spreadsheet with specific criteria they needed a location to meet before it could be considered “home.” In short, Lynchburg checked all the boxes.

Martinez and Campbell lived in Airbnbs and short-term apartment rentals before finding the right home. And, it turned out, the right home wasn’t a traditional home at all, but a 7,200-square-feet circa 1911 men’s clothing store.

“We purchased it in December 2021 and have lived in it as we did the remodeling,” Martinez explained. “Living in the space has really allowed us to experience how the building and space
works and make improvements and repairs where necessary.”

The former S.H. Franklin building, located on Main Street, was one of two men’s clothiers in downtown Lynchburg in the early 1900s. According to Martinez and Campbell, it was the place to go if you wanted high-end fashion and business attire. The building itself was constructed for the clothing store, with art deco style display windows and heart pine wood floors. S.H. Franklin occupied the building until the 1980s and then the first floor was converted to office space, with the S.H. Franklin display tables used as desks.

In 2004, Jim Tracey and John Seminatore purchased the building.

“They wanted to preserve its history and bring it back to life as a working art studio (921 Fine Art),” said Martinez. “They converted the third floor into a two-bedroom loft apartment while bringing the structure up to modern codes. A large portion of the roof was opened up to make a comfortable living space that brought in an abundance of natural light into an area that was void of light. The completed renovations made for a great live-work downtown location.”

In 2021, when Martinez and Campbell purchased the building, with much of the modernization work completed by the previous owners, they had the luxury of truly making the space their own.

“We wanted to bring out the history and the amazing craftsmanship of the building,” Martinez said. “The third-floor storage space was converted into a living space in 2004, however it was missing an outdoor space. The rooftop deck was one of the main changes that we felt needed to be made to make this place a home. This project has been the most involved, as it is constantly adjusting as we start to use the space.”

Martinez and Campbell hope to expand their rooftop herb garden—which benefits from sweeping views of the city—as well as adding more seating areas.

While the Main Street building may not be Martinez and Campbell’s forever-home, they are reveling in the process of maximizing the full potential of the building, including preparing the lower floors to be available for commercial lease.

“I love things like this,” said Campbell, who is a retired Marine with a background in electronics and engineering. “Owning a commercial building is very niche. Commercial is a different animal, and it can, understandably, feel intimidating. But there is so much potential in downtown Lynchburg—it’ll take just the right people and right investors to make it what it could be.”

Campbell and Martinez share an interest and passion in the promise of Lynchburg, specifically its downtown.

“We really enjoy living in downtown Lynchburg and we are looking forward to finding the right use for this amazing building so it can be a real asset to the businesses and culture downtown,” Martinez furthered. “This may possibly lead to us finding another project here in downtown. We feel there are a lot of underappreciated historical buildings that need a lot of TLC. We want to be a small part of preserving the historic downtown.”

When asked what types of businesses they hope move into their lower two floors, Campbell says it’s more about the people behind the businesses.

“We need people [downtown] who are passionate about what they do and passionate about providing a service and a value, not someone who wants to come in and just make money,” he said. “I think of downtown Lynchburg like an outdoor mall—it’s what all these other subdivisions are trying to be. Of course, it’s going to take a lot of work from the city and investors to bring it up to that. I’m trying to connect and network and get to know people in the city, so they get to know me and know that we’re champions for downtown.”

Whether it’s casting a vision for their loft and making the most of their 130-foot-long living space or setting broader sights on downtown Lynchburg as a whole, Martinez and Campbell are rolling up their sleeves and getting to work—and the spaces they leave will be all the more beautiful for it.  

The Art of Native Plant Gardens

By: Lindsey Cline-Shrader

In garden design, native plants aren’t only chosen for their adaptability and ecological benefits; a growing trend embraces the beauty of native plant gardens. Native plants are celebrated for their striking aesthetic potential and following fundamental design principles helps maximize their beauty. From pairing plants for color and texture to mastering scale and color theory, designing with nature has never been more rewarding.

Scale

Scale refers to the size of elements in the overall space. In large suburban or rural yards, mature trees, a forest, or built elements like pergolas help fill the space and create a sense of scale that matches the garden’s size. The mistake I often see is making small, colorful perennial beds that demand maintenance but quickly get lost in an ample space. This leaves the gardener, as I’ve frequently felt, overwhelmed. 

Instead, plant in drifts or clusters of the same species to create a strong visual impact and avoid a scattered look. Large swathes of a few plant species unify an expansive landscape. Use natural materials like stone walls or boulders to blend the garden seamlessly with its surroundings. A well-placed fence or hedge can make the scale more manageable and break up the space.

In expansive gardens, open spaces or lawns provide a visual break.
Balance these areas with planted sections to avoid monotony with too much lawn and prevent chaos with too many planting beds.

In smaller urban gardens, compact plants and furnishings make the space harmonious. Here, the key is to use layers of smaller trees, then shrubs and perennials to bring the canopy down to earth and balance the space. For smaller spaces, consider smaller drifts of three to five plants to create interest. 

Creating Visual Hierarchy

Creating a visual hierarchy guides the viewer’s eye through the garden. Each garden area or “room” should have one focal point: a flowering shrub, bright perennials, a garden shed, a fountain, or a hardscape element like a fireplace or fire pit. To add impact, surround the focal point with ground covers and perhaps a dwarf tree. This layering technique adds depth and interest, ensuring no element overwhelms the space.

If hardscapes create the focal point, plantings are vital to softening them and creating harmonious spaces. Plants mitigate the harshness of stone or concrete by adding warmth, texture, and color. Limiting hardscape areas to specific purposes, such as pathways or seating areas, prevents them from overwhelming the garden’s natural beauty. 

Color Pairings

Color theory can help guide a visually stunning garden. Harmonious color schemes, such as monochromatic (different shades of the same color), analogous (colors next to each other on the color wheel), and complementary (colors opposite each other on the color wheel), can enhance your garden’s aesthetic in unique ways.

Monochromatic Color Schemes

For a serene and cohesive look, consider a monochromatic scheme using shades of green or white and green. This style works particularly well in shady spaces and around quiet seating areas. Native ground-covering grasses like Carex (my favorite is Carex vulpinoidea) provide a tranquil backdrop. Layering multiple leaf shapes and sizes over the base grass adds depth and interest while maintaining a soothing space. 

Analogous Color Schemes

Analogous color schemes incorporate colors adjacent to each other on the color wheel. This style brings harmony and unity to the garden, creating a cohesive look that’s perfect for gathering areas, outdoor dining spaces, and often for front or back entrances. The smooth transitions between colors create a sense of comfort and tranquility, making these areas feel welcoming.

Complementary Color Schemes

Complementary color schemes (colors opposite on the color wheel, such as blue and orange) attract attention and create lively, engaging environments. They are perfect for bold entrances, focal points, or larger entertainment spaces.

Warm Color Schemes

Warm colors, such as reds, oranges, and yellows, create a sense of warmth, energy, and vibrancy. These colors evoke excitement: warm colors advance toward the viewer, naturally drawing the eye and making spaces feel dynamic or further enhancing focal points. Warm colors thrive in sunny spots, where the natural light enhances their brightness and intensity.    

Cool Color Schemes

Cool colors, including blues, greens, and purples, evoke calmness, serenity, and a sense of spaciousness. These colors recede from the viewer, making spaces feel extensive and tranquil.

Cool colors perform well in shaded or moist areas, where their subtle tones can create a refreshing feel. Their receding nature can give the illusion of depth and distance, making compact areas feel more expansive.

Plant Textures

Plant textures add depth and contrast, particularly to monochromatic spaces. Fine-textured plants, such as grasses or ferns, bring a delicate, airy quality, ideal for lightness and movement. These can be strategically placed near pathways or seating areas to draw the eye and soften hard edges. Coarse-textured plants, like large-leaved vines or shrubs, provide a dramatic contrast and can serve as striking focal points. By layering and contrasting these textures, you can create a balanced yet dynamic garden.

Designing with native plants allows for a harmonious blend of ecological benefits and aesthetic appeal, creating beautiful and sustainable gardens. You can transform any space into a stunning natural haven by carefully considering scale, visual hierarchy, and color theory. Embrace the art of native plant gardening to enjoy a landscape that thrives with minimal maintenance while offering a captivating visual experience.

Wedding planning doesn’t have to be stressful—all it takes is the right resources in your corner and you’ll be getting hitched without a hitch. Consider our Best of Central Virginia Weddings your resource guide to finding the right venue, attire, photographer, caterer, and more.

 Newlyweds, industry colleagues, and our readership nominated and voted on the people and businesses listed in 30 categories. With these picks in hand, your wedding day will be one to remember. 

Earning a Best of Lynchburg award should be celebrated, and earning this recognition year after year earns a business a spot in the Hall of Fame. 

To place in our Best of Lynchburg Hall of Fame, a business, person, or place needs to have won a gold level award in a particular category for the majority of the last eight years—since VistaGraphics first launched the contest. 

Flip through to see who is the best of the best in the region! 

(Voting for the 2025 Best Of Lynchburg Awards begins July 26. Look for those winners in the January/February issue of Lynchburg Living!)

The Best Celestial Events and Viewing Spots in Our Area

There’s no better time to polish your telescope and let the kids stay up a bit later. There are a number of celestial events taking place this summer and we still have our fingers crossed for another surprise aurora occurrence.

From breathtaking meteor showers to planetary alignments, the heavens promise a spectacular show. Here’s your guide to the best stargazing locations, upcoming astronomical events, and tips on how to make the most of your sky-watching experience this summer.

Top Stargazing Locations in our Area

1.  Dark Sky Parks: Virginia State Parks has four parks designated as International Dark Sky Parks by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA)—Staunton River State Park, James River State Park, and the recently added Natural Bridge and Sky Meadows State Parks.

2.  Claytor Nature Center: Located in Bedford, the Claytor Nature Center is a 491-acre oasis that’s tucked away near the mountains. They also have the Belk Astronomical Observatory for incredible stargazing opportunities.

3.  Blue Ridge Parkway: As we learned during the aurora phenomenon in May, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers prime stargazing and nighttime visibility away from any light pollution. Just be mindful driving on the windy roads in the dark.

Upcoming Astronomical Events

July 28-29: Delta Aquarids Meteor Shower Peak – The Delta Aquarids can produce up to 20 meteors per hour at its peak. It is produced by debris left behind by comets Marsden and Kracht. The shower runs annually from July 12 to August 23 but peaks this year on the night of July 28 and morning of July 29. The second quarter moon will block many of the fainter meteors this year, but if you are patient, you should still be able to catch some in a dark location after midnight. Meteors will radiate from the constellation Aquarius but can appear anywhere in the sky.

August 11-13: Perseid Meteor Shower Peak – The Perseid meteor shower, one of the most anticipated events of the year, will peak around August 11-13. During its peak, stargazers can expect to see up to 60 meteors per hour. The best viewing time is after midnight, and it’s advisable to find a dark spot away from city lights.

September 8: Saturn at Opposition – On September 8, Saturn will be at opposition, meaning it will be directly opposite the Sun in the sky. This is the best time to view and photograph the ringed planet as it will be its brightest and most visible. A telescope will enhance this experience, revealing Saturn’s rings and some of its moons.

August 19: Full Moon – The full moon in August, known as the Sturgeon Moon, will illuminate the night sky. While the brightness of the full moon can hinder the visibility of other celestial objects, it provides a perfect opportunity for moon-gazing and lunar photography.

DIY Guide for Stargazing

Building a Simple Telescope: For those new to stargazing, constructing a simple telescope can enhance the experience. You’ll need two lenses: a convex lens (with a focal length of about 1000mm) and an eyepiece lens (with a focal length of about 25mm). Mount these lenses in a cardboard tube, ensuring they are aligned correctly. This basic telescope can magnify celestial objects and make features of the moon and planets more discernible.

Using Star Identification Apps: Modern technology offers several apps to assist in identifying stars and constellations:

• Star Walk 2: This app uses augmented reality to show the stars and constellations in real-time. Simply point your phone at the sky and explore.

• SkySafari: With detailed information on planets, stars, and celestial events, SkySafari is perfect for both beginners and experienced stargazers.

• Night Sky: This app not only identifies stars but also provides notifications for upcoming celestial events.  

Tips for Optimal Viewing

• Dark Adaptation: Allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness for about 20-30 minutes before stargazing.

• Weather Check: Clear skies are essential, so check the weather forecast and choose a night with minimal cloud cover.

• Comfort: Bring a blanket or reclining chair, and dress warmly as summer nights can get cool.

• Safety: Always let someone know where you are going and take a buddy with you. Do not trespass on private property and do not drive while tired.

Torbee’s Refreshing Approach to Children’s Television Programming

By: Emily Mook  |  Photos by: Ashlee Glen

When Tori Buckley Garris sat down to watch a children’s show with her then two-year-old son in 2020, she had no idea that inspiration would strike—and that this inspiration would lead her to not only create her own children’s show, but also lead her on a journey back to herself. At that time, Garris had a corporate job and was working from home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but for much of her life up to that point, she had passionately pursued and made a name for herself through acting. She had thought that her acting days were behind her, but she suddenly found herself pulled back into that sphere with a new sense of purpose and direction.

“My son and I were watching a children’s show together,” Garris recalls. “It was kind of educational—more entertaining—and looking at it through my professional acting lens, it occurred to me that I could do something like this and it could be much less annoying! That was where the idea started.”

Garris’s acting journey began when she was very young.

“I’ve been acting as long as I can remember,” she says. “When I was in first grade, my music teacher said to my parents, ‘You have got to get that girl into acting. She has no stage fright, and it is so hard to come across someone with no stage fright!’”

Garris’s first public performance as a child was in a production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at a theater in Chicago, her hometown. She booked her first professional gig when she was 15 and consistently acted professionally from age 19 on.

After taking acting intensives in both Chicago and New York City over the subsequent years, Garris began to weigh the pros and cons of moving to either New York City or Los Angeles to pursue acting even more rigorously. Amidst her pondering, however, a different and more pressing thread of thought emerged.

“The more I thought about it [moving], the more I realized that I kept saying I was pursuing my acting career because that’s what the Lord had called me to do—because it’s what I was supposed to do—but I kept getting offered roles that went against my morals,” she remarks. “They were roles that I would not have been proud to play. If I kept saying I was doing this for the Lord, then why on Earth did I keep getting offered these roles? It was like God said to my spirit, ‘Because you say you’re doing this for me, but you’re actually doing this for you.’ So I literally stopped and said, ‘I don’t know how to do this any other way, so I’m just going to go and do something else.’”

Garris and her husband, Zac, ultimately moved to Central Virginia to be closer to family and friends and had a son, and Garris embarked on a corporate career.

Fast forward, then, to that fateful day when Garris saw a new path emerge in front of her—a path that would allow her to both rediscover her passion for acting and tap into her passion for being a mother. 

“I found that I still had that itch to be an actress,” she notes. “It’s what lights my soul on fire!”

That spark of inspiration ignited quickly into a plan, and thus was Torbee born. It didn’t take Garris long to form a vision and mobilize a team to bring that vision to life. In addition to her acting chops, Garris had some light editing experience and friends with a variety of creative talents who were willing to help.

Central to Torbee’s creation and continued success are two of Garris’s friends in particular: husband and wife Zach and Bryanna Boyd, who serve as the show’s director of photography and executive producer, respectively. Garris shot episodes of Torbee on her iPhone starting in 2021 before taking a break after the birth of her daughter, and when she began working with the Boyds at the beginning of 2023, a whole new world of possibilities emerged.

Garris remarks that the Boyds “immediately understood my vision, bought into the vision, and helped me refine what we were looking to build.”

The Torbee team also includes a graphic designer, songwriter, marketing specialist, and several musicians, colorists, and editors. The team frequently films episodes at Atelier Studio & Gathering Space and outdoors at HumanKind.

Garris’s vision for Torbee is centered around helping families “slow things down in a fast-paced world” and place “wonder at the center of everything.” She cites Mr. Rogers as a “huge source of inspiration because he was known for talking about how children need wonder.”

“In today’s society, we’re so obsessed with information, and we continually put wonder to the side—especially for kids,” she adds.

Garris hopes that Torbee can facilitate wonder by serving as a bridge between screen time and either play time or thoughtful discussion. As such, Torbee covers myriad topics that encourage off-screen engagement, and the videos are conveniently color-coded to indicate which topics are being covered: purple for imagination and creativity; blue for math concepts like numbers, counting, and shapes; green for nature and exploring; yellow for language and story time; and red for emotions and safety.

As a busy mom herself, Garris prioritizes sharing simple activities that use common household materials and showing the process from start to finish.

“I’ll often go to Instagram for inspiration and ideas for simple crafts to do with my kids, but usually life gets so busy that I’ll like and save all these videos and reels and will then never go back to them,” she says. “With Torbee, we want to show the whole process: an idea that we are actively putting into practice. We also just want to create so much content that parents can choose an activity that they already have the materials for.”

In addition to an upcoming series focused on puppet-making and puppetry, major projects with two partner organizations are in the works.

The Torbee team will be working with CASA (Court-Appointed Special Advocates) of Central Virginia on an episode entitled “Things To Know By Heart,” which will focus on helping parents and caregivers equip their children with knowledge they need to know in case of an emergency—namely first and last names of parents/caregivers, phone number, and address—and on helping children understand what makes an adult a “safe grownup.” A free downloadable and printable PDF resource will accompany the episode.

“CASA is a voice for the most vulnerable children,” states Garris. “We are not experts
on trauma, so we want to be able to lean on and promote and recommend organizations like CASA.”

The Torbee team will also be working with Freedom 4/24, an organization that aims to end exploitation of children and human trafficking, to produce episodes centering around personal safety and boundaries for six- to eight-year-olds.

“We want to empower kids to be able to say things like ‘My body is my own,’ ‘I don’t want you to hug or touch me,’ and ‘No is a complete sentence,’” she says. “We’re not ready to produce those episodes yet, but we’re going to be working with Freedom 4/24 and a couple of licensed therapists to create content that is age-appropriate and is focused on being empowering. That’s a really important mission for us.”

When it comes to contemplating Torbee’s future, Garris exhibits the same sense of wonder—of letting things unfold with an open mind, curiosity, and optimism—that typifies Torbee’s content. Beyond hoping to branch out into other languages and to do a traveling live show, she is open to a multitude of possibilities.

“We don’t have one specific vision of where the show could go, but we would love to continue to be a bigger and better resource for parents, caregivers, and kids,” she remarks. “We would just love for Torbee to be a beloved children’s show.”

For more information about Torbee and to find out where to watch episodes, visit torbee.tv.

RVing, Camping with Kids, Creating Content, and Making the Most of Every Moment

By: Megan Williams  |  Photos by: Ashlee Glen

In a warm summer afternoon, a scene plays out that any mother will recognize: Trying to get lunch on the table while keeping a child occupied and happy. But there are some nuances to this particular scene that are worth noting. The mom, dad, and child aren’t in a house—they’re outside with an RV in the background. And they aren’t at home, they’re in a campground. And, the most unusual, Yogi Bear and Cindy Bear—two mascots from Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park in Natural Bridge—are wandering up to the campsite to help the mom create content for her hundreds of thousands of social media followers.

Erin Graves, the woman behind the brand Campin’ Erin, has been camping on the weekends with her family for the last five years. Along the way, she shares her camping tips, hacks, and product reviews with her over 200,000 followers across TikTok and Instagram.

“Every time we would camp, I’d look at TikTok videos to learn more about the campsite or get camping recipe ideas,” she remembered. “People on TikTok want entertainment or to learn something. So I started posting videos of products we bought for our RV, and the account just grew from there.”

Graves launched her TikTok account in 2022 and has since amassed over 1.5 million likes on her content. An Instagram account followed shortly after and is steadily growing.

“Anywhere we are, I’m making some sort of video, whether it’s food or a product,” she said. “I’m also an ambassador for Blackstone and am often creating food content using their camping griddle.”

Graves and her husband, Charles, were both tent campers when they met. But after they had their son, Walker, they switched to an RV—a Keystone Bullet 290BHS. Their 34-foot travel trailer is decked out with amenities, creature comforts, and clever tools that make their camping trips as efficient as possible. And after countless camping weekends and thousands of miles on their RV, Graves has learned a thing or two about streamlining equipment and experiences so she and her family get the most out of their adventures. 

“We definitely made some immediate changes when we got our camper and others have happened over time,” she explained. “RV mattresses from the factory are awful. We have upgraded our mattress twice, so one went on our son’s bunk bed, because those mattresses are pretty awful too. We added a new curtain rod in the bathroom to give more space so you don’t have the dreaded shower curtain cling while you’re showering. We added towel storage in the bathroom as well to make it easier and save valuable storage space in the cabinets. Most of the changes we made were small—cup holders, lamp shades, baskets for storage.”

Graves also made a curtain for the shelf above their bed to hide anything they need to store, as their Keystone model is the only year in which the brand didn’t add cabinet doors for that area. They also added shelving to their bedroom closets for more efficient storage space, as well as upgraded screen door handles for ease of use and a homier touch.

“A little bit of extra decor inside makes it feel homey, but I don’t do too much because we are just weekenders,” Graves said. “We don’t want to unpack too much just to have to pack it up again in a few days. We keep most of our things in the camper, so when it’s time to camp, we just pack food and clothes and that’s about it. We’ve really got it down these days.”

The interior of the RV is cozy yet minimal, with small accents like custom throw pillows or a travel journal open and awaiting that day’s camping memories. It serves as a comfortable landing pad after the Graves family has spent the day outside and a safe refuge should rain or storms unexpectedly strike.

When finding the right RV for their family, the Graveses prioritized a standard queen size bed for the primary bedroom, standard fulls for the bunk beds, primary bedroom that was separate from the rest of the space, two doors, and an outdoor kitchen.

“We have had eight people sleep in here, which is the most we’ve had. It was…cozy,” she laughed.

They also found the added laundry chute, which drops the day’s dirty clothes into a storage bin below, to be a welcomed bonus. And while they hardly use the TV, there is a DVD player with six or seven DVDs stored up for rainy days. The couch in front of the TV pulls out into an extra bed, and the Graves family will cozy up for a rainy movie night with popcorn.

“We don’t cook inside a ton,” Graves said. “Camper ovens are hard to get right. The microwave actually gets used more than anything else inside. We use our Blackstone griddle for most of our cooking. I have always professed my love for Blackstone on my videos and they ended up contacting me and asking if I wanted to be an ambassador for their brand—immediate ‘yes!’”

Graves said they typically prepare burgers, fajitas, and lots of breakfast foods when they camp, with their son Walker emphatically adding “bacon!” to the list.

While camping serves as a content source for Graves, it’s not the reason why they go.

“There’s a lot of sitting and relaxing,” Graves said. “We usually stay at state parks, which are more secluded. If there’s water we will fish. If there are trails, we will hike. But for the most part, we stay around the campsite. If we have a fire going at camp, that’s the activity—we sit around the fire. After Walker goes to bed, Charles and I will play board games or Rummy.”

The Graveses prefer state parks because of the amenities they typically have to offer, especially opportunities for Walker to meet and play with other kids his age. State parks tend to be more quiet and offer more relaxing camping experiences—perfect for a young family. Graves says their family loves to be surrounded by trees and have more space between themselves and the next camper versus other campgrounds where everyone is more crammed together.

“We love Virginia State Parks,” she said. “We love so many and there are many we still haven’t been to, but we particularly like James River State Park, Douthat State Park, and Pocahontas State Park. Our favorite ‘local’ park is Smith Mountain Lake State Park.”

While the Graveses aren’t full-time travelers, it’s clear their priority is making the most of their free time. And while they’re creating experiences that their son will remember for years to come, Graves will be there to document it along the way.  

Follow along on their adventures on Instagram and TikTok at @campinerin.