Good morning, Charlottesville.

On November 26, CASPCA hosted its first free pet food drive from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to give out dog and cat food without questions asked—helping local pet owners facing financial hardship keep their pets at home during the holiday season.

Local pantries have seen an 11% jump in demand as government benefit delays add extra pressure to the holiday season.

Food banks are boosting staffing and supplies — they plan to meet the surge in community needs.

ReadyKids kicked off its annual collection drive today to support local families—donations of board games and art kits will create opportunities for connection and fun at home during the holiday season.

CATEC will distribute bags of nonperishable food and personal care items (such as soap and shampoo) to about 35 families in need during winter break in partnership with the Emergency Food Network.

The drive, scheduled to begin December 9, aims to ease the financial strain for families during the two-week school break.

Rhoback, an activewear brand founded in 2016 that sold only online, opened its first brick-and-mortar store in Charlottesville on a cold, rainy Saturday morning.

The new store will let local shoppers see and try on the products in person.

Charlottesville will host its Grand Illumination event on December 5 with new safety policies in place.

The rules require attendees to carry a clear bag only and ban weapons, bottles, bikes, and pets — with a medical exception made for the bag policy.

Charlottesville City Schools will reinstate School Resource Officers on campuses next year.

The final draft of the agreement between the school division and police will be presented at the Dec. 4 School Board meeting — the updated guidelines require SROs to act only at school administrators’ request — as community concerns over oversight and potential bias were addressed.

The Cavalier Daily elected Leigh Bailey as editor-in-chief for its 137th term starting Jan 12—she is a third-year College student and current operations manager chosen in a contested election.

Other Managing Board and Junior Board members were also elected to lead sections including news, sports, arts and finance at the paper.

Scientists released Virginia’s first statewide climate assessment that used Thomas Jefferson’s handwritten weather notes and modern data to show that the state’s climate has shifted from the 1700s to today—registering warmer temperatures, heavier rainfall, and more flooding.

University students have turned to Nuuly—an online rental service offering six clothing items for $98 a month—to get outfits for formals, everyday wear, and chilly Charlottesville days with quick two-day delivery.

Many students in Greek life use the service to try new styles and help lower clothing waste.

At a digital Thanksgiving table, three Cavalier Daily writers shared their proud moments for Cavalier sports — they talked about a sharp cross country win led by Gary Martin, an upset over No. 8 Florida State in football, and a strong soccer victory against Wake Forest at Klöckner Stadium. They also noted key issues like injuries and crowd expectations as Virginia will face the Hokies in football this weekend.

Johnnyswim Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — The Jefferson Theater — Ticketed event — Experience harmonious melodies from the captivating duo Abner and Amanda Ramirez.

Atlanta Rhythm Section Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Jefferson Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the classic sounds of southern rock from Atlanta Rhythm Section.

Tab Benoit Live

8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Jefferson Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the soulful Delta swamp blues from Grammy-nominated artist Tab Benoit.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze

7:30-9:00 p.m. — John Paul Jones Arena — Family-friendly event — Experience a dazzling holiday spectacular filled with breathtaking performances.

Ramona & The Holy Smokes with Hannah Juanita

7-9 p.m. — The Southern Café and Music Hall — Ticket prices may vary — Enjoy a lively Honky Tonk Night with great music from local talents.

Shakey Graves Solo Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — The Jefferson Theater — Tickets available — Experience the unique musical journey of Shakey Graves up close and personal.