Good morning, Charlottesville.

On the first full day of autumn, the Salvation Army of Charlottesville began calling for bell ringers to work at kettle sites across Charlottesville and Albemarle County for the 2025 Red Kettle Campaign.

Shifts run for two hours from November 20 through Christmas Eve+ volunteers can sign up as individuals, families, or groups to help support local families in need.

Live Arts launched the 434 Initiative to offer $4.34 tickets for first-time attendees, aiming to boost theater access for younger residents and those who have not yet seen a show — the program targets anyone 25 or younger or new to Live Arts performances.

The effort will help break down barriers and bring more community members to the stage.

Woodbrook Elementary School reopened Tuesday after Albemarle County Police investigated an overnight safety concern and found no credible threat—Principal Christie Isaiah confirmed that students returned safely and the school operated normally.

The University’s presidential search committee met on Monday to review progress by external firm Isaacson, Miller (which received 321 survey responses from staff, students, alumni, and faculty) and discussed the qualities needed in a new president.

The committee will reconvene in October and early November (with interviews planned for late November) as it moves forward with its search.

Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson visited UVA Law’s Education Rights Institute last Thursday to discuss her memoir Lovely One and share how her parents’ teaching built her belief in public education—Interim President Paul Mahoney praised her clear message that underscored UVA’s educational values.

The University of Virginia remains the fourth best public college in the new U.S. News & World Report rankings for 2026, though it slipped from 24th to 26th among all schools in 2025.

It posts a 92% graduation rate and a median graduate income of $72,359—despite ranking 173rd in social mobility, showing steady improvement since 2020.

Scottsville will hold a special Town Council election to fill the seat left by Meredith Hynes’s resignation; candidate Molly Angevine is challenging the appointed incumbent Edward Payne—she spoke about fixing pharmacy access issues, keeping growth moderate, and setting up better emergency plans. Voters are urged to cast their ballots on November 4.

The Jefferson Council at UVA hosted a free speech forum at Old Cabell Hall on Tuesday, September 23 to honor Charlie Kirk’s legacy—featuring Attorney General Jason Miyares, Representative John McGuire, and Director Larry Sabato—and to promote civil discourse following his death.

UVA researchers at the School of Medicine discovered weak brain immune cells—called microglia—that may play a key role in neurological diseases.

They say further studies will test how these cells affect brain health.

The University of Virginia Women’s Lacrosse team added three local freshmen—Delaney Poindexter, Raleigh Foster, and Blair Fox—who played high school lacrosse near Klöckner Stadium as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Head Coach Sonia LaMonica said the players are building strong teamwork as they aim for the Final Four on Memorial Day weekend.

Will Overman - 'Stranger' Release Celebration

5-11 p.m. — Sidetracks Music — Free entry — Celebrate the release of Will Overman's new music with songs and stories from this local favorite.

Oktoberfest Celebration at Blue Mountain Brewery

All day — Blue Mountain Brewery — Inquire about pricing — Enjoy ten days of festive German food, live music, and games.

Ramona & The Holy Smokes Live

6-7 p.m. — The Southern Café and Music Hall — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an engaging evening with Ramona & The Holy Smokes featuring Kai Crowe-Getty and Olivia Ellen Lloyd.

Drew Holcomb and The Neighbors Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — Jefferson Theater — Tickets available through Ticketmaster — Experience the Medicine Anniversary Tour with Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors in a cozy venue.

Dementia Care Model Presentation

4-5 p.m. — Northside Library — Free entry — Learn about the GUIDE model for dementia care and its impact on non-medical home care reimbursement.

Tuesday Rumba Night with Vincent Zorn

7-9 p.m. — The Bebedero — Free entry — Enjoy lively gypsy rumba music every Tuesday evening.

Samantha Fish Concert

7:00-9:30 p.m. — The Jefferson Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the electrifying blues sounds of multi-award-winning artist Samantha Fish live in Charlottesville.

Castle Rat Concert

7-9 p.m. — The Southern Café and Music Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience Medieval Fantasy Doom Metal with Castle Rat as they defend ‘The Realm’ from darkness.

The Dagga Boys Live Performance

1-7 p.m. — Chiles Peach Orchard and Farm Market — Free entry — Enjoy a great blend of old and new songs with bluesy guitar vibes from The Dagga Boys.

Pantops Community Celebration

7 PM — Avinity — Free entry — Celebrate community spirit with fun activities in a peaceful neighborhood setting.

YMCA Gatorade Halloween Hustle 10K Run & 2 Mile Family Walk

Sign up to run, walk, or volunteer at the YMCA Gatorade Halloween Hustle 10K & 2 Mile Family Walk on Oct. 25, featuring festive costumes, family fun, and a post-race party with bounce houses and contests! Proceeds go toward YMCA financial assistance, to ensure no one is turned away for inability to pay.