Good morning, Charlottesville.

Today families enjoyed a Pictures with Santa event at Tonsler Park inside the recreation center, where children lined up for festive photos and snacks that celebrate holiday representation.

More than 20 local businesses are partnering with CASPCA to set up donation trees — each ornament features a QR code linking to needed supplies for the shelter's medical fund, pet food pantry, and pet care programs this holiday season.

Habitat for Humanity is highlighting seniors building community at Southwood Community Center in Charlottesville (donor support fuels connections) as part of its annual story emphasizing local service.

A CvilleBioHub study showed a 23 percent job increase in biotech since 2019, and Astrazeneca announced plans to build a plant in Albemarle County that will create hundreds of new positions.

The group will launch a coordinated effort in 2026 to connect local talent with industry opportunities.

On Dec. 12, U.Va. admitted 1,225 students from 5,108 early decision applications, setting a record as in-state and out-of-state rates came in at 25% and 23% respectively.

The University boosted access with fee waivers and travel vouchers (part of its All Virginia program) to help students from diverse backgrounds.

University dating is shaped by Greek life, finances, and cultural identity as students say mixers, casual meet-ups, and club events create both opportunities and barriers to forming relationships.

They note that low-cost coffee dates and campus events offer budget-friendly ways to connect.

Local residents volunteer through the Rivanna Forest Restoration Project to plant trees at Charlottesville parks and boost the city's tree canopy (supporting healthy parks) as part of an ongoing community effort.

University leaders criticized the board’s decision on Friday to appoint Scott Beardsley as president, saying the rushed timing during finals may hinder his efforts to build trust (many hope a more deliberate process will follow).

Starting in February, Block by Block will deploy uniformed ambassadors to guide downtown visitors and support cleaning with 200 added work hours weekly, as the city backs upgrades for the mall's 50th anniversary and the Commonwealth's 250th with over $1.2 million in funding.

Virginia beat Maryland 80-72 Saturday at John Paul Jones Arena — Dallin Hall scored 20 points with six assists while Jacari White added 15 and Devin Tillis chipped in 10 off the bench as the Cavaliers improved to 10-1 under first-year coach Ryan Odom.

On Thursday, Dallas FC picked Virginia freshman forward Nicholas Simmonds with the third pick and midfielder Umberto Pelá with the 44th pick in the MLS SuperDraft, making Simmonds the first top-three Cavalier since 2010 while defender Reese Miller and Jesus De Vicente signed contracts with Houston Dynamo and Oakland Roots.

The Virginia Cavaliers beat Winthrop 88-53 at John Paul Jones Arena on Saturday as junior guard Kymora Johnson set a season high with 41 points (she made 10 of 13 three-point shots) (her coach called the performance elite).

The team will return to JPJ on Dec. 29 to face SMU.

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.