Good morning, Charlottesville.

Charlottesville Tomorrow shared news strategies that track community impact instead of clicks by showing tools like its Housing Resources Guide at national conferences in June.

The newsroom works with local partners to help residents get the information they need—focusing on what matters most to the community.

Police from Charlottesville and Albemarle County will participate in National Night Out on Tuesday, August 12 at two local venues (Putt Putt Fun Center from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Washington Park from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.) to connect with the community.

The events will offer activities like miniature golf, a donut eating contest (with CPD chief Michael Kochis aiming to win) and prize giveaways to build trust among residents.

Area school districts start the 2025—26 academic year this week with six districts beginning Aug.

6 while Charlottesville, Albemarle and Greene schools return Aug. 13 and other counties start on later dates. New rules include a statewide ban on cellphone use during class and a requirement that teachers notify parents 30 days before using sexually explicit instructional materials.

The University of Virginia will soon have a new leader—its former law school dean, who has been named interim president to guide the campus through its leadership transition.

Charlottesville City Schools announced that free breakfast and lunch will continue for all students this school year as part of a federal program aimed at reducing food insecurity—officials said the support will help families meet nutritional needs.

The measure covers all schools and is expected to ensure every student gets a nutritious start.

At the University, dining halls serve meals to sustain students rather than excite their taste buds.

First year students must use an unlimited meal plan that builds social ties, while upperclassmen opt for alternatives or off-campus dining — a choice driven by limited menus, small portions and early closing times.

Virginia Lottery ended FY25 with its second-highest profit in 37 years, generating $901 million to fund K-12 schools in Virginia.

Record sales of $5.7 billion drove the profit and included a $348 million Mega Millions jackpot won at a store in Burgess— the largest jackpot ever won in Virginia.

The Charlottesville City Council is moving ahead with a $100 million project to renovate city schools by adding more natural light and better ventilation in both older and newer buildings—temporary replacement schools will keep classes in session during construction.

Councilor Natalie Oschrin said the Walker Pre-K center plan includes space for one replacement school and that some outside funds helped cover the cost.

Scientists at UVA School of Medicine discovered that the origin recognition complex controls DNA packaging and cell functions beyond its known role in cell division—this discovery may help researchers understand how healthy cells turn cancerous and lead to new treatments for diseases, including cancer.

UVA men’s swimming received an anonymous $2.2 million donation that rises to $2.7 million with matching funds to fund scholarships for male athletes ahead of the 2025 season—this boost supports a top-ranked recruiting class and experienced team members as the team prepares for upcoming competitions.

Wild Gypsy Rumba Night with Berto & Vincent

7 PM – 1 AM — The Bebedero — Free entry — Experience the electrifying fusion of Gypsy Rumba and Latin rhythms from talented musicians Berto & Vincent.

Tuesday Rumba Night with Vincent Zorn

7-9 p.m. — The Bebedero — Free entry — Enjoy lively gypsy rumba every Tuesday evening.

Berto & Vincent: Wild Gypsy Rumba

7 PM - 1 AM — The Bebedero — Check the venue for entry fee — Enjoy the wild Gypsy Rumba sounds with Latin and Cuban influences performed by Berto & Vincent.

C'Vinyl Night

8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Jefferson Theater — 18 & Over Only — Enjoy a night of vinyl music in a vibrant local venue.

Erynn McLeod EP Release Show

6:00-7:30 p.m. — The Southern Café and Music Hall — Ticket info pending — Celebrate the release of Erynn McLeod's EP with special guests Kylie Grunsfeld, Claire Boyer, & Tyler Meacham.

Ramona Martinez Concert

6 PM – 12 AM — Mejicali — Free entry — Enjoy classic country tunes from honky tonker Ramona Martinez in a delightful evening setting.

Tuesday Rumba Night with Vincent Zorn

7-9 p.m. — The Bebedero — Free entry — Experience lively gypsy rumba every Tuesday evening.

Tuesday Rumba Night with Vincent Zorn

7-9 p.m. — The Bebedero — Free entry — Enjoy lively gypsy rumba music every Tuesday evening.

Runaway Gin Concert

8:30 – 10:00 PM — The Southern Café and Music Hall — Tickets starting at $37 — Catch the lively tribute to Phish with fellow music lovers in Charlottesville.

Berto & Vincent Wild Gypsy Rumba

7 PM – 1 AM — The Bebedero — Check for ticket prices — Experience the electrifying blend of Gypsy Rumba and Latin rhythms by Berto & Vincent.