Good morning, Charlottesville.

New findings from No Kid Hungry show that rising food prices are pushing 45% of Virginians into added debt and driving a 20% increase in demand at local food pantries today.

Organizations such as Loaves and Fishes and the Emergency Food Network are struggling to serve families while lawmakers plan to address food insecurity with a future Farm Bill package.

Local food banks are preparing for SNAP eligibility changes that will reduce benefits for nearly 447000 Virginians—Blue Ridge Area Food Bank has seen rising demand amid higher living costs and lost food donations, and local pantries are readying for increased need and fewer volunteers in the coming months.

The Charlottesville Pride festival returns to Ting Pavilion on Saturday with more vendors than ever—promising a vibrant celebration for local attendees.

Some 200 students, teachers, staff, and dignitaries gathered Thursday for the topping out ceremony at the under-construction Mountain View Upper Elementary School, which will open next fall.

The event featured a signed steel beam draped with an American flag and thank-you cards from students—honoring the efforts of the construction workers.

John Unsworth retired at the end of the 2024-25 academic year—after serving nine years as dean of libraries and overseeing the renovation of Edgar Shannon Library from 2020 until its January reopening.

Leo Lo will begin as the new librarian on September 15.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is now law and will change SNAP by postponing the benefit update until 2027 while adding work requirements that may cut help for up to 47,000 Virginians and local grocers relying on SNAP dollars.

Gov. Youngkin has ordered extra training to reduce Virginia’s 11.5% error rate—potentially raising state costs by $270 million plus another $90 million for administration—so officials can manage the changes better.

UVA Health researchers will use $2.3 million from the Department of Defense to study military brain injuries that were once undetectable — the project may lead to better diagnosis for service members.

University of Virginia baseball coach Chris Pollard shared his lifelong passion for baseball—he grew up learning the game from coach Dick Cooke and is now building a strong team at Virginia.

Cars & Coffee Charlottesville

8-10 a.m. — Barracks Road Shopping Center — Free entry — Explore a diverse collection of cars in a casual and vibrant atmosphere.

Ramona Martinez Concert

2-8 p.m. — Glass House Winery & Brewery — Check venue for entry cost — Experience the heartfelt honky tonk tunes of Ramona Martinez inspired by classic country music.

Hash Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — The Jefferson Theater — Tickets available — Enjoy an evening with The Barons and HASH the Band featuring Chloë Ester.

Cville Veg Fest

11 AM – 4 PM — IX Art Park — Free entry — Enjoy vegan food, speakers, live entertainment, and activities for all ages at this community celebration.

Charlottesville PBR Rodeo

8:00-9:30 p.m. — John Paul Jones Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience thrilling rodeo entertainment with PBR's top performers.

Stanford Cardinal vs. Virginia Cavaliers Football

7:30-9 p.m. — Scott Stadium — Cost info not provided — Catch an exciting football matchup between Stanford and Virginia.

Tyler Childers Concert

7-9 p.m. — John Paul Jones Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience the soulful sounds of Tyler Childers with proceeds supporting local Appalachian initiatives.

The Concussion Discussion

5:30-8:00 p.m. — Graduate by Hilton Charlottesville — Ticket prices vary — Explore the latest research and treatment debate surrounding concussions with expert insights.

Will Overman - 'Stranger' Release Celebration

5-11 p.m. — Sidetracks Music — Free entry — Celebrate the release of Will Overman's new music with songs and stories from this local favorite.

Oktoberfest Celebration at Blue Mountain Brewery

All day — Blue Mountain Brewery — Inquire about pricing — Enjoy ten days of festive German food, live music, and games.