Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 12th of December.
Good morning, Charlottesville.
🏘️ Community
Local police and volunteers are preparing for the annual holiday gift caravan to distribute festive gifts to residents this season.
Details on timing and pickup points will be announced soon.
BRAFB announced that the Scouting for Food campaign reached one million pounds donated over 13 years, marking a milestone in its long-running support for local families.
The Dogwood Vietnam Memorial Foundation is hosting Wreaths Across America Day today at noon in Charlottesville as part of a ceremony to honor veterans.
💼 Business
Construction is underway on AstraZeneca's new Albemarle plant — officials briefed on expected worker salaries and plant size, with additional details to be shared soon.
🎭 Culture
Monticello resumes its holiday evening tours today, inviting visitors to explore the historic estate in a festive atmosphere this season.
🎓 Education
The UVA board held an open session (lasting about one minute) to discuss the search for its next president in Charlottesville and planned future steps in the selection process.
The VDOE report shows Albemarle County high schools received distinguished or on track ratings while city schools got mixed marks, with one high school on track and lower marks for middle schools.
Officials (Jason Grant and Beth Cheuk) said the data will help support groups needing extra help.
Teacher vacancies statewide fell 35.9% since 2023 while Charlottesville now has only one open special education role.
The new bargaining agreement raised pay for teachers — sparking improved morale.
🌲 Environment
The Rivanna Solid Waste Authority reminds residents and restaurants to take part in its free oyster shell recycling program to aid Chesapeake Bay restoration.
🏛️ Government
The University of Virginia’s Special Committee for Selection of the President has scheduled meetings on Dec.
19 and Jan. 6 to discuss candidates amid calls for a pause from the Governor-elect and nine deans (after recent letters raised concerns about board vacancies).
🏥 Health
UVA Health Children’s is receiving toy donations—bringing holiday cheer to young patients as local donors fill its halls with color and care during its holiday drive.
The drive continues this season.
🎉 Charlottesville Events
Submit an event →
Ramona & The Holy Smokes with Hannah Juanita
7-9 p.m. — The Southern Café and Music Hall — Ticket prices may vary — Enjoy a lively Honky Tonk Night with great music from local talents.
Shakey Graves Solo Concert
7-9:30 p.m. — The Jefferson Theater — Tickets available — Experience the unique musical journey of Shakey Graves up close and personal.
Rebirth Brass Band Concert
7:30-9:00 p.m. — The Southern Café and Music Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience the vibrant sounds of the Rebirth Brass Band, a New Orleans institution.
Tuesday Rumba Night with Vincent Zorn
7-11 p.m. — The Bebedero — Check website for cost — Experience wild Gypsy Rumba guitars fused with Latin and Cuban influences in an evening of dynamic performances.
New Year's Eve Dining Experience
New Year's Eve 2025 — 4:00 p.m. onwards — Hamiltons' at First & Main — $95 per person — Enjoy a luxurious four-course dinner crafted by Chef Hunter Harding with a toast to ring in 2026.
🏠 Charlottesville Real Estate
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