Good morning, Charlottesville.

Local motorcyclists from the Valley Freedom Riders+ known for volunteer work+ delivered toys and gifts to UVA Children's Hospital to bring holiday cheer to patients.

The Salvation Army serves local residents at the Center of Hope by providing emergency shelter, meals, and social services through its holiday campaign.

The organization also plans to expand the center and has launched a $28 million fundraising campaign to add extra beds and a larger dining hall.

Downtown restaurant Tonic will close on Dec.

28 as its owner announced on social media — the eatery has served local seasonal dishes in a relaxed space at the Michie Building on East Market Street.

Jefferson-Madison Regional Library is accepting submissions for Inkling, a Teen Creative Arts Magazine that invites local youth aged 11-18 to share creative writing and artwork.

Submissions (max 1,000 words and 2-D artwork) are due by Friday, Jan. 23.

UVA extended early decision offers to 1,225 applicants (776 Virginians) for the Class of 2030.

Early action offers will be released Feb. 15 and regular decision offers will follow Apr. 1.

Today the Student Council approved formal recognition for 45 CIOs after months of review, named Clint Wilson as mutual aid co-director, and passed a resolution asking the University to set clear guidelines for major technology updates.

On Friday, the Faculty Senate passed a resolution asking presidential search finalists to pause the process amid concerns over the timeline.

Interim President Paul Mahoney is preparing a report for the Justice Department, and discussions included extending a governance committee until May and launching digital course materials program One Access.

Downtown garages on Market Street and Water Street launch a new ticketless drive-in drive-out parking system today that uses license plates as passes.

Parking rates remain unchanged and on-site assistance is available for drivers.

Virginia men’s and women’s basketball teams scored wins before a 10-day exam break.

The men beat Maryland Eastern Shore 84-60 on Tuesday and the women won 76-50 against Howard on Wednesday; both will resume play Saturday at John Paul Jones Arena.

Charlottesville Blues FC will hold open tryouts for its 2026 men’s and women’s professional soccer teams on Dec.

27 at UVA’s Carr’s Hill Field — the event welcomes players aged 16 and older, including youth, collegiate and pro hopefuls, with evaluations by UVA Soccer coaches.

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.