This special section features local medical practices and providers who are helping shape the delivery of care across our region.
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Representing a range of specialties, these professionals are part of a broader network committed to access, innovation, and patient-focused care close to home. Through their work, these practices contribute to the strength of our local healthcare landscape—offering services, expertise, and resources that support individuals and families throughout every stage of care.
Virginia College Guide 2026
A Comprehensive Look Into Higher Education Throughout The Commonwealth
The Birthplace of American Ideals
How Virginia’s revolutionary thinkers helped shape a nation—and left their mark on Central Virginia
Before there was a United States, there was an idea.
The belief that people possessed inherent rights.
That governments derived their authority from the consent of the governed. That liberty was not a privilege granted by a king, but a natural condition of humankind.
These principles, which would become the foundation of the Declaration of Independence and later the Constitution, did not emerge from Philadelphia alone. They were debated, refined, and championed by a remarkable group of Virginia thinkers whose influence helped shape the course of a nation.
As America prepares to commemorate its 250th anniversary in 2026, Virginia’s role in the birth of those ideals remains impossible to overlook. And while Lynchburg itself would not be incorporated until 1786—ten years after the Declaration of Independence—the region bears the imprint of the people and ideas that transformed a collection of colonies into a republic.
Among the most influential was Thomas Jefferson.
Born in Albemarle County and educated in Williamsburg, Jefferson drew heavily from Enlightenment philosophers when drafting the Declaration of Independence in 1776. His famous assertion that “all men are created equal” and possess “unalienable Rights” distilled a growing belief that legitimate government existed to protect individual liberty rather than preserve inherited power.
Today, visitors can explore Jefferson’s connection to the region at Poplar Forest, his retreat home in Bedford County. Though constructed after the Revolution, the villa reflects the intellectual curiosity and classical ideals that defined Jefferson’s worldview. The property offers a tangible connection to one of America’s most influential political philosophers and provides insight into the man whose words helped articulate the nation’s founding principles.
Jefferson was not alone in shaping revolutionary thought.
Nearly a month before the Declaration of Independence was adopted, George Mason authored the Virginia Declaration of Rights. Ratified in June 1776, the document asserted that all people possessed inherent rights, including freedom of the press, religious liberty, and protections against government overreach. Historians widely regard Mason’s work as a direct influence on Jefferson’s Declaration and, later, the U.S. Bill of Rights.
If Jefferson gave eloquent voice to the Revolution’s ideals, Patrick Henry supplied its fire.
A gifted orator and fierce advocate for independence, Henry became one of the most recognizable figures of the Revolutionary era through his impassioned speeches against British rule. His declaration, “Give me liberty, or give me death!” remains among the most famous lines in American history.
Henry’s legacy is preserved at Red Hill, his final home and burial site in Charlotte County, less than an hour from Lynchburg. Overlooking the Staunton River, the property serves as a reminder that the fight for independence was not merely waged in distant capitals but was deeply rooted in the communities and landscapes of Virginia.
Another Virginian would help ensure that the ideals of the Revolution endured beyond independence.
Often called the “Father of the Constitution,” James Madison spent much of his life wrestling with a difficult question: How could a government protect liberty without becoming a threat to liberty itself?
Madison’s contributions to the Constitution and the Federalist Papers helped establish a framework of checks and balances that continues to shape American government today. His later advocacy for the Bill of Rights ensured that many of the freedoms first articulated by Mason and Jefferson became protected under federal law.
Taken together, these men represented more than a collection of prominent Virginians. They were participants in a broader intellectual movement inspired by Enlightenment thinkers who emphasized reason, individual rights, and self-government. Their ideas helped transform colonial grievances into a coherent philosophy—one that continues to influence democratic societies around the world.
For Lynchburg and Central Virginia, these stories are not distant history.
The roads, rivers, and communities that surround the city formed part of the landscape where revolutionary ideas took root and spread. The region’s proximity to sites such as Poplar Forest and Red Hill offers residents and visitors an opportunity to explore the people behind the principles that shaped the nation.
As Virginia commemorates the semiquincentennial, it is worth remembering that the American Revolution was not solely a military conflict. It was also a revolution of ideas.
Those ideas were debated in Virginia homes, written into Virginia documents, and championed by Virginia voices. They would eventually find expression in the Declaration of Independence and become the foundation of a new nation.
Two hundred and fifty years later, their influence remains all around us—not only in the historic sites that preserve their stories, but in the enduring belief that liberty, equality, and self-government are ideals worth pursuing.
Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with a spectacular event on Friday, July 3rd from 8:00 pm to 10:30 pm at Appomattox County High School, featuring a breathtaking 300-drone light show that will paint the sky with patriotic imagery including waving American flags, soaring eagles, and the stars and stripes in stunning aerial choreography, followed by a dazzling fireworks display that will light up the night in a brilliant tribute to our nation’s enduring spirit of freedom and unity.
Independence Day Celebration at Poplar Forest
July 4, 2026 – 10 a.m.
Thomas Jefferson held July 4th as “the only birthday I ever commemorate…” Bring your family and friends out to Poplar Forest, his Bedford County retreat, to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in historic style. Enjoy colonial-style entertainment, demonstrations by colonial artisans and craftspeople, archaeological displays, old-fashioned children’s activities, a reading of the Declaration of Independence at 1:30 p.m. and more. Tickets are $15/person ages 16+, under 16 are free. House Tours available for a reduced rate of $10 ages 18+, $7/ages 6-17, and free under 6.
Appomattox Liberty Golf Classic
July 10, 2026 – 8 a.m.
Experience Appomattox is proud to present the inaugural Appomattox Liberty Golf Classic: Where History Meets the Fairway. Join them for this premier event celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary in one of the nation’s most historic communities. Experience a unique 18-hole golf tournament at Falling River Golf Club alongside a continental breakfast to kick off the day. A ceremonial presentation of the colors by historical reenactors will take place as well as immersive historical elements and reenactments along the course.
Colonial Era Liberty Ball
July 11, 2026 – 6 p.m.
You’re invited to step back in time—Colonial Ball style. Visit Appomattox County for a lively 1776-themed ball celebrating the birth of our nation. Whether you’re eager to join in the dancing or prefer to relax and enjoy the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone. Colonial attire is welcome and will be admired but is not required—come as you are and enjoy the sights, sounds, tastes, and trivia of yesteryear. Pamplin Train Depot – 115 Main Street, Pamplin, Virginia
The Face of Physical Therapy: Back in Action Physical Therapy & Active Relief
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Back in Action Physical Therapy & Active Relief is dedicated to helping individuals throughout Central Virginia move better, recover faster, and live with less pain. Founded and led by Dr. Heather Brumfield, PT, DPT, OCS, the practice provides personalized, one-on-one care tailored to each patient’s goals. Specializing in orthopedic rehabilitation, chronic pain management, and Active Release Techniques® (ART), Back in Action combines clinical expertise with a hands-on approach. Their commitment to individualized treatment and exceptional outcomes has made them a trusted resource for patients seeking to get back in action and back to life.
Back in Action Physical Therapy & Active Relief
1076 Thomas Jefferson Road, Suite B., Forest, VA 24551 Phone: 434-201-4061 Fax: 434-290-3707 www.backinactionptar.com heather.brumfield@backinactionptar.com
Pictured (Left to Right): Angie Bryant, Dr. Heather Walling Brumfield PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS, ART/c
The Face of Heating Air & Plumbing: Brown’s Heating, Air, Plumbing & Electrical
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Founded in 2006, Brown’s Heating, Air, Plumbing & Electrical has proudly served the Lynchburg region with trusted residential and commercial heating, air, plumbing, and electrical services. As a locally owned and family-operated company, Brown’s has built its reputation on honest service, expert craftsmanship, and a deep commitment to the community we call home.
Led by Brandon Brown and Dara Brown, our growing team is passionate about delivering an exceptional customer experience from the first phone call to the final handshake. With more than 1,800 five-star reviews, Brown’s continues to be recognized throughout Central Virginia for outstanding service, professionalism, and putting customers first.
At Brown’s, we believe comfort, safety, and trust go hand in hand. By combining industry-leading technology, transparent pricing, and a customer-first approach, we don’t just service homes and businesses—we build lasting relationships and treat every customer like family.
Brown’s Heating, Air & Plumbing 407 Crowell Lane, Lynchburg, VA 24502 434-610-4373 brownsheatingair.com
Pictured: Brandon Brown, Dara Brown
The Face of Small Businesses: Central Virginia Business Coalition
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The Central Virginia Business Coalition is dedicated to promoting locally owned businesses, entrepreneurs, and service providers of all types and sizes. Through local networking, advertising & marketing discounts, and community events, the CVABC connects businesses to the community. Uniting Businesses; Together we’re Stronger! This is the purpose behind the CVABC. Our mission is to support local and create a network throughout the Central Virginia Region where businesses work together for the greater good of our community! Contact us to join today!
Central Virginia Business Coalition 14805 Forest Road Suite 107 Forest, VA 24551 434-528-1732 www.cvabc.org
Pictured (Left to Right): Heather Alto, Autumn Myers, Magen Boone
7 Ways Parents Can Help Prevent Teen Drinking and Driving This Summer
June is National Safety Month—Here’s How You Can Help Keep Your Teen Safe
By: Lauren Edwards, Community Outreach Coordinator at Virginia Recovery Centers
June is National Safety Month, making it the perfect time for families to talk about habits and behaviors that can impact safety both on and off the road. While conversations often focus on topics like seat belts, distracted driving, and road safety, drinking and driving remains one of the most serious risks facing teens. While parents can’t control every choice their teen makes, they can strongly influence attitudes, expectations, and behaviors around alcohol and driving.
As Community Outreach Coordinator at Virginia Recovery Centers (an alcohol and drug rehab in Virginia), I’ve seen how summer can be a particularly vulnerable time. School is out, schedules are more relaxed, and teens often have greater independence. Parties, vacations, and social gatherings can increase exposure to alcohol, raising the risk of poor decisions. With that in mind, here are ways parents can help reduce the risk of teen drinking and driving this summer.
Start the Conversation Early and Keep It Going
One of the biggest mistakes parents make is treating alcohol and driving as a one-time discussion. Effective communication happens through ongoing conversations that evolve as teens grow and encounter new situations. Rather than waiting until your teen is headed to a social gathering, look for opportunities to discuss the topic throughout the year. News stories, television shows, social media posts, and everyday experiences can all serve as natural conversation starters.
The goal isn’t to lecture, but rather to create an environment where your teen feels comfortable asking questions and sharing concerns. When communication is open, teens are more likely to seek guidance before making difficult decisions.
Discuss the Real Consequences of Drinking and Driving
Many teens understand that drinking and driving is dangerous, but they may underestimate the potential consequences. Talk openly about how alcohol affects judgment, reaction time, coordination, and decision-making. Explain that even small amounts of alcohol can impair driving ability, particularly for inexperienced drivers.
It’s also important to discuss the broader impact. A single poor decision can result in injuries, fatalities, legal consequences, financial burdens, and lasting emotional trauma for multiple families. Focusing on real-life outcomes often resonates more strongly than simply repeating rules.
Create a “No Questions Asked” Ride Home Policy
One of the most effective safety measures parents can implement is a “no questions asked” ride home policy. Let your teen know that they can call you for a ride at any time if they ever find themselves in an unsafe situation, whether they’ve been drinking, their driver has been drinking, or they simply feel uncomfortable.
Many teens hesitate to reach out because they fear punishment or disappointing their parents. Make it clear that getting home safely is always the priority. Any conversations about consequences can happen later. Knowing they have a reliable safety net can make it easier for teens to avoid dangerous choices in the moment.
Help Them Plan Ahead for Social Events
Good decisions are easier to make when they’re made before emotions, peer pressure, or alcohol enter the picture. Encourage your teen to think through transportation plans before attending parties, concerts, sporting events, or other gatherings. Ask questions such as: Who will be there? How are you getting there? Who is driving? How will you get home?
Having a plan reduces the likelihood of last-minute decisions that could compromise safety. It also reinforces the idea that responsible behavior starts before an event begins.
Teach Them How to Handle Peer Pressure
Even teens who understand the risks of drinking and driving can struggle when faced with social pressure. Talk about common scenarios they might encounter, such as being offered alcohol, riding with someone who has been drinking, or feeling pressured to stay at an event longer than planned. Help them practice responses they can use confidently, such as:
“I’m not getting in the car if you’ve been drinking.”
“My parents are expecting me home.”
“I’ll call for a ride instead.”
Role-playing these situations may feel awkward, but it can increase confidence and make it easier for teens to respond when faced with real-world pressure.
Set Clear Expectations and Boundaries
Teens benefit from knowing exactly where their parents stand on important issues. Clearly communicate your family’s expectations regarding alcohol use and driving. Discuss the rules, explain the reasoning behind them, and outline any consequences for breaking them. Research consistently shows that parental expectations influence teen behavior. Even when teens appear resistant, they often take their parents’ values into account when making decisions.
The key is consistency. Mixed messages can create confusion, while clear and predictable boundaries help establish trust and accountability.
Model Responsible Behavior Yourself
Parents are often more influential than they realize. Teens pay close attention to how adults handle alcohol, transportation, and decision-making. If you drink alcohol, demonstrate responsible behavior by never driving impaired and openly discussing how you plan for safe transportation. Use designated drivers, rideshare services, or alternative transportation when appropriate.
Modeling healthy decision-making sends a powerful message that safety is a priority, not just a rule for teenagers. Actions often speak louder than words, and teens are more likely to adopt behaviors they consistently observe at home.
Safety Starts With Communication
National Safety Month is a reminder that preventing tragedies starts with proactive conversations and thoughtful planning. While parents can’t eliminate every risk teens may face, they can provide the knowledge, confidence, and support needed to help them make safer choices. By maintaining open communication, setting clear expectations, and creating practical safety plans, families can reduce the risk of teen drinking and driving this summer.
Lauren Edwards is the Community Outreach Coordinator at Virginia Recovery Centers, a leading alcohol and drug rehab in Virginia. In her role, Lauren connects individuals and families with the center’s comprehensive addiction treatment programs, including outpatient care, medication-assisted treatment, and holistic therapies such as art and music therapy. She is dedicated to raising awareness about substance use disorders and providing compassionate support to those seeking lasting recovery, helping them navigate treatment options and access the resources they need to thrive.
Ask The Expert on Elder Law & Estate Planning
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The Expert: Robert W. Haley | The Estate & Elder Law Center of Central Virginia, PLLC Protecting Your Assets from Long-Term Care Costs
“You mean to tell me we don’t have to lose everything to pay for long-term care?” Families facing long-term care decisions often share the same concern: how to secure quality care without losing everything they’ve worked for. The reality is, without proper planning, long-term care costs can quickly drain a lifetime of savings. But there are often more options available than people realize. Here are three of the most common questions:
1. “How will we pay for long-term care?” The cost of long-term care can exceed $100,000 per year, making it one of the greatest financial risks families face. Many assume they must “spend down” their life savings, but that’s not always the case. With the right legal strategies, it may be possible to cover care costs while preserving a significant portion of your assets. Planning ahead offers the most protection, but even in crisis situations, options may still be available.
2. “When should we start planning to protect our assets?” The best time to plan is long before care is needed. Many asset protection strategies involve a five-year look-back period, meaning early planning can make a significant difference in what you’re able to preserve.
It’s also never too early to start. Even younger families benefit from having basic estate planning in place, ensuring children are protected and decisions are clearly outlined if something unexpected happens. These plans aren’t permanent; they can and should be updated over time as your financial situation and goals evolve.
3. “How do we protect our assets while covering these costs?” This is where experienced guidance makes the greatest difference. Without a plan, long-term care expenses can quickly deplete savings and put your home at risk. However, strategies such as asset protection trusts and other legal planning techniques may help preserve what you’ve worked so hard to build. The key is acting early and working with a professional who understands how to navigate these complex rules.
Planning ahead gives families more control, more options, and greater peace of mind. Even in urgent situations, there are often steps that can be taken to protect what matters most.
ABOUT THE EXPERT
Robert W. Haley is a Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA) with nearly 30 years of experience helping families protect their assets from the high cost of long-term care. As managing attorney at The Estate & Elder Law Center of Central Virginia, PLLC, he focuses on asset protection strategies, elder law, and estate planning. Haley is the only attorney in the Lynchburg area to hold both the CELA designation and Certified Advanced Practitioner (CAP) credential, bringing a rare level of expertise to safeguarding what clients have worked a lifetime to build.
The Estate & Elder Law Center of Central Virginia, PLLC 810 Main Street, Lynchburg, VA 24504 (3rd Floor of the Truist Building) (855) 608-0177 VaElderLaw.com Location also in Danville, VA
Ask The Expert on Sports Medicine
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The Expert: Ben Ferry, MD | Collaborative Health Sports Medicine
Do you have to be an athlete to see a sports medicine doctor? No. While we do work with local teams and athletes, you don’t need to be an athlete to benefit from sports medicine. We evaluate and treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions across all ages and activity levels. Your “sport” might be gardening, walking, or staying active day-to-day — if pain is impacting your quality of life, seeing a sports medicine doctor may help.
What kinds of everyday aches and pains are commonly treated? We treat both acute injuries and chronic conditions, with or without a clear cause. Common examples include knee pain from arthritis or meniscus issues, ankle sprains, and back pain from everyday activities like yardwork.
Additional conditions include: Patellar tendinitis (jumper’s knee), Rotator cuff tendinitis / shoulder bursitis, Hip tendinitis / bursitis, Osteoarthritis (hip, knee, shoulder), Hand and wrist conditions (trigger finger, carpal tunnel), Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis), and Concussions and post-concussion syndrome.
What treatment options are typically used? We focus first on non-surgical care. This may include home exercise programs, physical therapy, bracing, and medications. In some cases, injections such as cortisone or steroid can reduce pain and inflammation to support recovery. We may also use regenerative medicine treatments like prolotherapy or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to stimulate healing.
Diagnostics may include X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI. X-ray and ultrasound are available in-office to complement a thorough physical exam. MRIs are used when more detailed imaging is needed or when symptoms are not improving with conservative care.
“I’m not injured, but exercise causes pain. Can you help?” Yes. We can identify the source of pain, assess movement patterns, and guide training adjustments. We also help patients safely return to activity while working toward their fitness goals and reducing injury risk.
“I think I have a concussion. Why see sports medicine?” Concussions, a form of mild traumatic brain injury, are commonly treated in sports medicine and can result from everyday incidents like falls or car accidents. Symptoms may include headache, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating.
While many concussions improve with time, guided care is important. We take an active recovery approach, helping patients return to work, school, and daily life safely and efficiently, moving beyond the outdated advice of complete rest.
If you develop worsening symptoms — such as repeated vomiting, severe headache, confusion, weakness, seizure, or trouble waking — call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
ABOUT THE EXPERT
Originally from Orlando, Dr. Ferry completed his undergraduate training at the University of Notre Dame. He then attended the University of South Florida SELECT program for medical school, which included training in both Tampa, FL and Allentown, PA and additional work in leadership development and emotional intelligence. He completed his residency training in Charleston, SC at the Medical University of South Carolina, where he trained in both an academic and community setting. He completed a sports medicine fellowship at Duke University, where he had the opportunity to work with athletes of a variety of levels.
He provides sideline coverage for the Liberty University Division I and club sports athletics teams and enjoys working with students and residents through his role with the Liberty University College of Medicine.
Collaborative Health Sports Medicine 2321 Wards Road* Lynchburg, VA 24502 *Will be relocating to the Collaborative Healthplex in May of 2026 – 800 Graves Mill Road, Lynchburg, VA 24502
Ask The Expert on Alpha-Gal Syndrome / Allergy – Test Results
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The Expert: Debi Farley | Acupuncture Works, LLC
What is Alpha-Gal? Alpha Gal is an allergy to the sugar molecule galactose-a-1,3-galactose that is found in all 4 limbed mammals, except humans and old world apes. All foods have proteins, fats, and carbs. Alpha Gal is the carb in the meat. This classifies Alpha Gal as a food allergy just like peanuts, shrimp, soy…
What is the test for Alpha Gal? A blood test checking for antibodies to alpha gal. This test is often listed as IGE Blood Panel for galactose-a-1, 3-galactose. This test will often list beef, pork, lamb and alpha gal with separate reference numbers and a total alpha gal number. You are considered positive for these antibodies if the number is above .10.
What does the test mean? Your body has built up an army to fight something that it thinks is harmful. These are the antibodies. It doesn’t mean the army is fighting.
The test doesn’t tell you when, how, what, and/or the severity of the reaction. It also doesn’t tell you that you can react below the number.
Many tests also include a paragraph explaining why you might have a false positive, false negative and that the test is not to be used for diagnosis and you should consult with your physician for a complete diagnosis.
The test is a guideline to be used to determine the cause of your symptoms.
Does SAAT change the bloodwork? No.
How Does SAAT (Soliman Auricular Allergy Treatment) treat the allergy? It basically turns off/blocks/desensitizes the body so that it doesn’t recognize the allergy being harmful. When you receive allergy shots, you are building up a tolerance that turns off/blocks/desensitizes the body from the allergen.
Does Acupuncture work the same way as SAAT for Alpha Gal? No, traditional acupuncture is working with the body’s immune system to reduce the allergy response. SAAT is desensitizing the body to a specific allergen.
ABOUT THE EXPERT
With over 20 years of experience as an Acupuncturist, Debi Farley is board certified by the National Certification Commission (NCCAOM), licensed by the State of Virginia as a Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac) and licensed in Florida as a Doctor of Oriental Medicine. She is certified in Chinese Auricular Therapy, the Soliman Auricular Allergy Treatment (SAAT) and Auricular Medicine, and is Lynchburg’s expert on treating the Alpha Gal food allergy as well as diseases the tick may give you.
It is Debi’s mission to partner with her patients to help them live their best life possible.
