Good morning, Charlottesville.

Today, the Charlottesville-Albemarle SPCA is hosting its second annual Fall Festival at North Fork UVA Discovery Park from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. + The event offers free pet adoptions and fall activities, including a dog costume contest, to help connect animals with new homes.

Repairs to the collapsed Fray Road connecting Advance Mills Village to the county were completed faster and at a lower cost than expected, restoring access for 32 residents—GoFundMe donations helped lower each household's bill.

Community members worked together after heavy rains caused the collapse earlier this month.

On the first weekend of October, more than 200 community members gathered under blue skies to celebrate Charlottesville Tomorrow’s 20th anniversary of local journalism; the event featured speeches, interactive activities, and acknowledgments from past and present staff — with contributions from leaders like Giles Morris and Angilee Shah. The celebration honored long-time supporters, volunteers, and donors who helped shape the newspaper’s legacy and future.

Last Call—a fraternity band that has energized University weekends since 2022—is in its final year and will record new songs in Richmond and play downtown shows before some members graduate in spring.

Albemarle County invested over $10-million dollars to prepare the Rivanna Futures property where AstraZeneca has now chosen 54 acres to build its largest plant and serve as an anchor for further development.

The county’s work on this $58-million site is expected to attract additional businesses and spur economic growth.

Jim Dillenbeck is running a nonpartisan campaign for the Rio District school board seat and challenges incumbent Leslie Pryor, marking the only contested race this year.

He has canvassed 1,000 houses—calling for improved reading instruction and better teacher support—to address families’ concerns.

University of Virginia rejected the Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education after community feedback raised concerns over key provisions—faculty and student rallies expressed their opposition.

Interim President Paul Mahoney sent a letter on Friday to the Secretary of Education and White House officials, stating that the decision upholds UVA’s core values and supports merit-based federal research funding.

ACEing Autism started weekly tennis lessons at Boar’s Head Resort for children on the autism spectrum—offering tailored coaching and social skill development.

Led by local students Mia Seltman and Wesley Ravich, the program held five fall sessions and plans to add six spring sessions—drawing eight participants and about 30 volunteers.

Interim University President Paul Mahoney said U.Va. rejected the Compact for Academic Excellence received from the White House and the Department of Education on Oct 1—stating that linking federal funding to conditions would undermine merit-based research—while urging continued discussion on improving higher education. Community members had already voiced their opposition to the Compact.

UVA Health is the first in Virginia to use a new test that improves the detection of heart disease in women (designed to find early signs).

John Scott Haas, a former Greene County sheriff, survived a stroke and now writes a children's book that shares his journey of strength & recovery to inspire his grandchildren and others.

His book is used in a local classroom and he plans a book signing soon.

After six games, UVA tightened team chemistry and is one win shy of bowl eligibility as coach Tony Elliott praised the improvements made during a recent open date—Saturday night, the team will face Washington State in its final non-league game before starting ACC play while key players return to health and one injured quarterback is expected to miss the rest of the season.

Matisyahu Live Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — The Jefferson Theater — Tickets starting at $53 — Experience Matisyahu's captivating performance in a historic venue.

Berto and Vincent - Wild Gypsy Rumba

7-11 p.m. — The Bebedero — Cost Info not provided — Experience the electrifying blend of Gypsy Rumba guitars with Latin and Cuban flair.

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.

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.

JackFest 2025

12-4 p.m. — Foxfield Racing LLC — Donations appreciated — A family-friendly festival featuring races, kid activities, food trucks, and local beverages to support families facing childhood illnesses.

Víkingur Ólafsson Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — The Paramount Theater — Ticket prices may vary — Experience the captivating music of Icelandic pianist Víkingur Ólafsson, a prominent figure in the classical scene.

Indigo De Souza Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — The Jefferson Theater — Ticket info not specified — Experience the artistic journey of Indigo De Souza as she showcases her stunning third album.

Cars & Coffee Charlottesville

8-10 a.m. — Barracks Road Shopping Center — Free entry — Enjoy a diverse showcase of eclectic cars come rain or shine.

Matt Maeson Live

7-8:30 p.m. — The Jefferson Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience Matt Maeson's unique blend of emotional storytelling and music rooted in his Virginia upbringing.

Disco Biscuits Live

7:00-9:30 p.m. — The Jefferson Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the pioneering Trance-Fusion sound blending electronic dance music and jam rock.

Berto & Vincent Live Performance

7-11 p.m. — The Bebedero — Ticket info not provided — Experience the vibrant fusion of Gypsy Rumba and Latin influences with the talented duo Berto & Vincent.