Good morning, Charlottesville.

Charlottesville’s e-bike voucher program has helped over 100 residents offset bike costs this year, with winners like Lynn Puntillo switching from driving to biking (the city will survey users in January).

On Friday, Dec. 26, Twice Is Nice awarded an unprecedented $300K grant to local nonprofits.

The donation aims to boost community projects and continue support for local causes.

Albemarle County's Christmas tree recycling program began Friday and will run through Jan.

18, with eight drop-off sites open daily from 7 a.m. to dark. Free mulch from recycled trees will be available at Darden Towe Park & Crozet Park starting Jan. 19.

Albemarle County's water boil advisory was lifted recently, but local stores + shops continue to face lingering water quality challenges as they adjust their operations.

Shoppers described a slower pace than in past years during post-Christmas shopping in Charlottesville, noting fewer crowds and a shift from returns to last-minute purchases.

Many attributed the change to gift cards replacing physical gifts (local shoppers say) as families adjust holiday spending habits.

The CDC and FDA said raw oysters caused salmonella in 64 people nationwide (six here) and advised cooking them to reduce risk and contacting a doctor for severe symptoms.

Patients and families at UVA Children's Hospital received a holiday visit that included gifts and warm cheer to brighten the festive season.

A boil water advisory remains for northern Albemarle County due to a water main break on Wednesday along Route 29 North.

Health officials are testing water quality (with a sample taken Thursday morning and another Thursday afternoon) and the advisory could be lifted Friday if both tests are negative.

Residents in Charlottesville report that post-Christmas shopping now runs with fewer crowds and shorter return lines while an innovative e-bike voucher program has helped over 100 locals save on electric bike costs, offering a quieter local experience.

New data shows that zoning laws across Virginia limit how many affordable housing units can be built because most residential land is zoned for single-family homes.

The report says that allowing more families to live on one plot could ease the housing shortage as costs rise for locals.

UVA football is set to play in the Gator Bowl against Missouri Tigers Saturday at 7:30 p.m. in Jacksonville, Florida.

The team prepared after an ACC Championship loss and is determined to finish the season strong.

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.

NC State Wolfpack vs. Virginia Cavaliers Women's Basketball Game

5-7 p.m. — John Paul Jones Arena — Free trial available — Catch the thrilling showdown between NC State and Virginia in women's college basketball.