Good morning, Charlottesville.

The Downtown Mall ambassador program (Block by Block) is set to launch next year to boost visitor experience downtown.

Local officials say the initiative will enhance the neighborhood's welcoming atmosphere.

The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank reported a surge in holiday demand today as more local residents seek food assistance (an increase noted in recent updates).

Officials are discussing ways to meet the rising need in the region.

The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank recorded its second highest month of food assistance in October when 184,000 people sought help, and with USDA donations down, the bank is buying more food to serve families during the holiday season (impacted by the government shutdown and cold weather challenges).

The Q3 retail sales report shows that Charlottesville and its surrounding localities are outpacing national trends with rising sales tax revenue, including an 8.54% jump in Louisa County.

Local businesses are expected to enjoy strong performance as holiday spending boosts consumer confidence.

Charlottesville City Schools and Albemarle County Public Schools are tracking small numbers of medical and religious vaccine exemptions—rising slightly in Charlottesville yet reportedly declining in Albemarle—with privacy measures in place and enrollment rules unchanged.

Graham Paige announced he will retire from his school board seat after a decade of service — his departure is set to take effect Dec.

31.

The University Board of Visitors appointed Scott Beardsley as the institution’s 10th president, and he will take office Jan.

1 (a decision made amid student concerns). Some students praise his business track record while others question the process and timing.

Mark Weathers was named as the first Chief Operating Officer (COO) for the Paul and Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology at UVA.

The Paul and Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology has named Mark Weathers as its first chief operating officer at UVA.

He brings over nine years of higher education experience (plus 28 years in military leadership) and will lead the institute's virtual operations and research initiatives.

Charlotte Walden, Public Relations Chair for the Student Docent Executive Board, leads art tours at the Fralin Museum where she guides thousands of local school children and promotes diversity in art history.

The program aims to expand art education and improve tour leadership.

Albemarle County Fire Marshall Captain Macaiah Ledford urged residents to use holiday lights carefully, keep candles watched, and handle fireworks safely to prevent fires this season (fire rescue stations have joined with a friendly holiday decoration contest).

Virginia beat American 95-51 in its final nonconference game at home as the Cavaliers outplayed their opponents throughout.

Freshman Thijs De Ridder scored 27 points (his best game this season) as the team prepares for ACC play starting Dec. 26.

Virginia’s wrestling team posted a 3-1 road trip record with win after win over Hofstra, Bucknell, and Morgan State before a close loss to Penn; Coach Garland (in his 20th season) celebrated his 200th win and the team will continue in Tennessee on Jan.

3.

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.

Gia Ray Concert

8-11 p.m. — The Southern Café and Music Hall — Tickets required — Enjoy an evening of soulful tunes with Gia Ray, highlighting themes of life's challenges and isolation.