Good morning, Charlottesville.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Blue Ridge has named a new board chair as mentoring needs grow.

The nonprofit selected a candidate with many years of firsthand experience to guide its programs locally.

The UVA food pantry will host SouperBowl of Caring soon on Grounds to combat food insecurity.

Big Brothers Big Sisters filled a key leadership role as Marc Paulo Guzman, a longtime mentor, becomes the new board chair to guide mentoring programs across the Central Blue Ridge region.

The nonprofit expects his leadership to strengthen one-on-one support for children.

Local artist and art therapist Karina A.

Monroy opened her mixed-media exhibition 'Sueños Florecientes' at New City Arts downtown on Jan. 9, featuring works by her, her mother, and her grandmother that explore Chicana heritage. The exhibit runs until Feb. 18 (Wed to Sat, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.).

Kimberly Sheffield has been named the new director of the nonprofit Jefferson School Foundation — known for its incubator program — and will lead efforts to preserve the Jefferson School City Center in Charlottesville.

Forecasted snow is prompting Charlottesville shoppers to visit hardware stores as they stock up for supplies in anticipation of a snowstorm this weekend.

UVA experts say strong solar flares have made red auroras visible in Charlottesville for the next year before they become rare until 2030—check NOAA’s forecast for the best viewing conditions.

Albemarle County is accepting applications for its Citizens Police Academy, where residents can explore police work through ride-alongs, simulators, crime scene investigations, traffic enforcement and K-9 demonstrations.

The three Saturday sessions (Feb. 21, Feb. 28, Mar. 7) will provide hands-on experience, with applications closing on Feb. 10.

UVA Hospital is preparing for a winter storm surge today as rising flu cases push its emergency department near capacity — staff expect increased admissions with worsening weather.

UVA Health and Mount Sinai researchers discovered that extracellular vesicles from diseased kidneys may poison heart cells, potentially allowing earlier detection and treatment of heart failure (workshop begins Feb.

7).

UVA Health’s emergency room is preparing for a surge of patients from heavy snowfall while already nearing capacity from flu, RSV & COVID.

Hospital staff have scheduled planning meetings this week to ensure safe access and prompt care.

Charlottesville High School senior Elaina Pierce ran a record four-minute, 49-second mile at the Virginia Showcase indoor track meet on Jan.

16, setting the fastest time in Virginia and the second-fastest in the nation. She now plans to join UVA next fall.

Virginia's new baseball coach, Chris Pollard, is finalizing his starting lineup largely with Duke transfers & UVA returners as players compete for an open third base spot ahead of a three-game series at Disharoon Park on Feb.

13.

UVA faces UNC on Saturday at 2 p.m. at JPJ as officials coordinate with meteorologists about potential heavy snowfall that may affect travel & logistics for the Tar Heels arriving from Chapel Hill.

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.