Good morning, Charlottesville.

Kateryna Smith, a Ukrainian volunteer at MERCI UVA, is packing and shipping 50 to 60 pounds of surplus medical supplies — bandages, staples, and surgical equipment — to Ukrainian hospitals every few weeks from Charlottesville.

She said she will continue helping as long as she has energy.

A preliminary DMV report revealed fatal traffic crashes statewide fell roughly 15% in 2025, but Albemarle County recorded eight fatal accidents (up from seven in 2024) while officials reminded drivers to buckle up and avoid distractions.

University and local groups will host events to mark America's 250th anniversary, including guided tours, book clubs and a free July 4 celebration with music, concessions and children’s activities at Monticello.

Student organizations and digital projects will offer reenactments and educational talks on the nation’s revolutionary history.

A new endowed fund will help students with financial needs at Miller in Albemarle County; school officials say it will ease barriers to education.

Monticello High School hosted a cyberbullying prevention seminar that showed students how to recognize online bullying and take proper action.

The event took place at the school and aimed to keep everyone informed and safe.

University Judiciary Committee chair Allison McVey (a fourth-year student) marked the committee’s 70th anniversary on the On Record podcast by discussing how it managed a heavy caseload and launched a new endowment to support student-led adjudication at the University.

The Fluvanna County Planning Commission voted 3-1 against Tenaska’s plan for a second gas plant on Tuesday, Jan.

13, 2026, saying it does not match the county’s comprehensive plan. Tenaska may appeal the decision and county supervisors will review its permit at a special meeting on Feb. 24.

Health care advocates urged local residents to review their coverage options before ACA open enrollment closes at month end.

Health care advocates met at Jefferson-Madison Central Library on January 16 (early alert) to urge families to compare options amid rising insurance premiums before the Affordable Care Act open enrollment period nears its end.

A University of Virginia study shows the ketogenic diet lowers seizures and offers clues for treating neurological diseases.

The research, released recently, brings local attention to potential new health approaches.

UVA football added transfers Beau Pribula from Missouri and Eli Holstein from Pittsburgh this week to boost the quarterback competition for spring practice as last year’s starter (Chandler Morris) awaits a decision on his NCAA waiver appeal.

Freshman forward Nick Simmonds, who scored 10 goals in 19 games including a late tournament winner on Nov.

9 against North Carolina, was drafted by FC Dallas on Dec. 18 just after his 19th birthday. He arrived in Charlottesville last spring and quickly emerged as a standout.

Virginia women’s basketball lost to Duke 65+58 on Thursday at Cameron Indoor Stadium when a late surge fell short, and the Cavaliers will face Pittsburgh at John Paul Jones Arena on Jan.

22 at 7 p.m. as they aim to reverse consecutive losses.

Gia Ray Concert

8-11 p.m. — The Southern Café and Music Hall — Tickets required — Enjoy an evening of soulful tunes with Gia Ray, highlighting themes of life's challenges and isolation.

NC State Wolfpack vs. Virginia Cavaliers Women's Basketball Game

5-7 p.m. — John Paul Jones Arena — Free trial available — Catch the thrilling showdown between NC State and Virginia in women's college basketball.

Susto Stringband Performance

7-10 p.m. — The Southern Café and Music Hall — Ticket info not specified — Experience the vibrant sounds of the Susto Stringband as they present their debut album.

Lettuce Concert

8-10 p.m. — The Jefferson Theater — Ticket information available — Experience a genre-busting performance by Lettuce, a six-member musical collective.

Joe Jordan Live Performance

7-11 p.m. — The Southern Café and Music Hall — Ticket info not provided — Experience engaging storytelling through honest lyrics and live guitar music.

Dar Williams Live Performance

7:30-9:30 p.m. — The Southern Café and Music Hall — Cost info not provided — Enjoy an evening of captivating music from singer-songwriter Dar Williams along with Seth Glier and Ward Williams.

David Foster Concert

7-11 p.m. — The Paramount Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of one of the most illustrious composers of our time performing live.

Tim O'Brien Concert

8-10 p.m. — The Southern Café and Music Hall — Check venue for cost — Enjoy an evening of folk and rock music with acclaimed artist Tim O'Brien.

Langhorne Slim Concert

7-10 p.m. — The Jefferson Theater — Tickets available — Experience the raw emotion and spirit of modern Americana with Langhorne Slim's latest music.

Father Daughter Dance

6-8 p.m. — Carver Recreation Center — Price per couple; register daughter only — Dads, uncles, and grandpas take your little valentines for a night of fun dancing.