Good morning, Charlottesville.

This week, Charlottesville Tomorrow received a $500,000 gift from the MacArthur Foundation to enhance local news and expand community coverage in central Virginia.

The newsroom plans to use the funds to support its five-year strategic plan and build on its 20-year legacy.

The University’s Ballroom Dance Club offers beginner-friendly lessons three times a week with local instructors and hosts events including dances at Newcomb Ballroom and the annual Rotunda Ball to help students learn ballroom techniques.

Members also gain experience by competing against other universities.

FOIA data shows University President Scott Beardsley, former president Jim Ryan and U.Va.

Health CEO Mitchell Rosner are the top three earners for FY2026, with salaries of $1.3 million, $1.21 million and $1.63 million respectively, totaling $4.14 million effective Jan. 1.

University students join the Civic Cornerstone Fellowship at Bond House to build dialogue skills through guided meditation, listening exercises, and group discussions; the program accepts 400+ applicants and its new cohort began last week.

An original copy of the Declaration of Independence will arrive at the University of Virginia soon for public viewing (date pending) to enhance campus exhibits and learning opportunities.

Piedmont Master Gardeners is awarding grants of $100 to $500 to motivate K-12 students in gardening—educators and nonprofits can apply by March 6 online.

An electrical failure at the Lake of the Woods pump station on Wednesday raised fears of a sewage leak, and officials advised residents and (pets) to avoid the Small Marina Cove.

The situation is under investigation.

The Rivanna Conservation Alliance is hosting a photo contest to highlight the Rivanna Watershed — community members can submit photos by email by April 15 to win prizes and be featured at Rivanna RiverFest.

Categories include wildlife, people and recreation, and a youth contest for photographers 16 and younger.

Blood donations in the region are down by 35% due to winter storms, flu season and holiday disruptions.

UVA Health and Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital urge local donors to act quickly so that patients receive essential transfusions on time.

In 2025, Charlottesville’s Poison Center recorded 347 opioid-related calls, down from 414 in 2024 and 533 in 2023.

Local health professionals remain concerned and urge continued caution regarding opioid use.

A new VHHA analysis shows that emergency room visits for cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) increased 29% from 2020 to 2024 in Charlottesville, and experts note the trend is linked to frequent cannabis use.

El Comalito in Charlottesville serves traditional tacos, burritos and enchiladas that have earned it a loyal following, while Cville Local Deals offers a $50 gift card for $25.

Visit the taqueria soon to savor these bold flavors (available for lunch or dinner).

Tabitha Amanze, the senior forward who grew up in Nigeria, has transferred to Virginia — drawn by a team that values community and growth.

She brings renewed love for basketball as she earns key minutes with the Cavaliers.

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.

4th Annual Odds and Ends Film Festival

6:30-9:00 p.m. — Vinegar Hill Theatre — Admission varies — Explore experimental films that defy conventional storytelling at this annual celebration in Charlottesville.

Cars & Coffee Charlottesville

8:00-10:30 a.m. — Barracks Road Shopping Center — Free entry — An eclectic gathering of car enthusiasts showcasing a variety of vehicles, rain or shine.

Louisiana Calling Concert featuring Sonny Landreth Band and The Iguanas

8-11 p.m. — Jefferson Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the vibrant sounds of Louisiana music with lively performances and audience interaction.

GRAND OPENING - DOOR OPENS AT 11:30AM

The wait is over, Charlottesville. The Fox Den Grand Opening is this Saturday at 11:30 AM, inviting the community to experience a brand-new sports bar built by the team behind Charlottesville Blues FC. Expect big energy, great food, properly poured Guinness, giveaways, music, and the largest watch party screen in town ready for a full day of sports and celebration.

Alkemie presents "What's Your Sign?"

8-9:30 p.m. — The Rotunda — Check website for pricing — Explore the intersection of astrology and medieval music with Alkemie's unique performance.

Harlem Globetrotters 100 Year Tour

7-8 p.m. — John Paul Jones Arena — Tickets required — Celebrate a century of spectacular basketball and entertainment with the legendary Harlem Globetrotters.

The Barons Live Concert

8-11 p.m. — The Southern Café and Music Hall — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of melodic tunes by The Barons in a vibrant local venue.

The Haven's Run for Home 8K Run / 4K Walk

8:00 a.m. — Ting Pavilion — Registration fees apply — Participate in a scenic 8K run or 4K walk through historic Charlottesville and enjoy a post-race breakfast.