Good morning, Charlottesville.

Community leaders and the CPD will host a family-friendly Fourth of July celebration on July 4 to ensure a safe event—following last year's incident.

Organizers plan to prioritize security and fun for local families.

Friends of Downtown has released the schedule for Downtown Mall's 50th Birthday Bash on July 3.

The event will begin at 10 a.m. with a historical walking tour, followed by art exhibits, concerts, free ice cream and a lantern parade that ends at the CODE Building.

Local experts advise homeowners with browning lawns to water before sunrise, raise mower blades for taller grass and add compost to help soil retain moisture during the drought (these simple tips aim to conserve water in Albemarle County).

ReLeaf Cville is in its final year of a $190,000 Virginia Department of Forestry grant to preserve mature trees in Fifeville and 10th and Page.

The nonprofit provided free care to 100 trees on 56 properties and will help 50 more trees while seeking additional funding.

Valley Link updated its routing maps for the proposed Joshua Falls to Yeat transmission line and scheduled open houses (June 15 to 26) for community feedback.

Residents still face communication glitches, and local officials urge a slower, clearer process as the revised routes affect fewer than 75 homes.

City Council met yesterday to review three proposals for a new Early Learning Center at Walker Upper Elementary School and backed Scheme C — which needs an extra $17 million from a sales tax referendum.

If approved, work will begin in September 2027 and the center could open by July 2029.

Daniel Stewart clinched the state championship for Western Albemarle boys tennis after the team swept all six playoff matches, marking a big win in the 2026 playoffs.

Sounds of Summer Concert

6-8 p.m. — Tonsler Recreation Center — Free entry — Kick off summer with live music from the 100 Proof Go Go Band and tasty treats from Carnelos Burritos.