Good morning, Charlottesville.

Dave Matthews Band’s Bama Works Fund awarded $740,000 in grants to 141 local nonprofits to support housing, food, arts education and clean air initiatives — part of a $10,000,000 yearlong effort to aid community needs in Charlottesville and nearby areas.

A local law firm is reviving the Sober Ride Home program to ensure safe transportation on New Year’s Eve—offering designated rides for responsible celebrations.

Starting Dec. 31, smoke shops will sell only vape and nicotine products approved by the Attorney General.

Violators risk fines of $1,000 per day for each unapproved product.

Charlottesville held a ceremonial menorah lighting for the Jewish community on Tuesday at 6 p.m. on the Downtown Mall (with latkes, jelly donuts, and city officials in attendance) and will host a similar event today at Stonefield Mall featuring a Mitzvah Tank to honor Rabbi Schlinger after the attack in Australia.

U.Va.’s Peer Health Education program promotes healthier habits among students through a safer sex series, Stall Seat Journals, and an annual Fourth Year 5K — Outreach Coordinator Evie Liu outlined plans to expand these efforts and strengthen community care.

The UVA Board of Visitors will hold public meetings on Dec.

19 (1–3 p.m., 2420 Old Ivy Rd, Conference Room 119) and Jan. 6 to discuss candidates for its next president as it continues its search despite calls to delay until board requirements are met.

The University of Virginia has offered early decision admissions to hundreds of high school students in Charlottesville (a boost for local college-bound youth) as they prepare for the next steps of enrollment.

Tom Perriello launched his campaign to reclaim the 5th District last week in Charlottesville; he hosted a busy event at a local brewery, raised over $400,000, and won key endorsements to fight rising costs and support working families.

ReadyKids, a local nonprofit that gives free trauma counseling to children and teens from age 2 to 18, closed its waitlist because record referrals pushed its capacity—community donations now help cover funding gaps after federal cuts.

A UVA psychologist (Kim Penberthy) advises residents dealing with holiday grief to adjust traditions and show self-compassion.

She recommends avoiding overindulgence and reaching out to professionals if feelings become too overwhelming.

UVA Health is expanding services in Zion Crossroads just off exit 136 on I-64, adding 50,000 appointments a year.

The expansion meets growing local demand — offering imaging, pharmacy, labs, and a range of specialties.

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.