Good morning Charlottesville! We're back again in your inbox, keeping you updated with what's happening in and around town. ☀️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: Free Bra Fittings to Support Breast Cancer Awareness and 9 more events.
Today's riddle: When geese fly, one side is longer than the other. do you know why that is ? 🤔 (Answer below!)
1. Charlottesville Police finally release images they had of alleged Downtown Mall shooter (augustafreepress.com) — Charlottesville Police have released surveillance images of the suspect in a recent Downtown Mall shooting after initially withholding them for three days. Investigators say the man in a black hoodie, light jeans, and white sneakers was seen firing eastbound near CVS before running toward Water Street, and they're asking anyone who recognizes him to contact Detective Raines or Crime Stoppers.
2. Charlottesville-area students invited to enter 'Imagine a Day Without Water' art contest (nbc29.com) — Charlottesville and Albemarle County students can now enter the city's Imagine a Day Without Water art contest, creating two-dimensional art or photos about why water matters in their lives. Open to kindergarten through 12th grade, entries are due October 26, with $200 gift cards for winners and extra prizes for participating teachers. Details and submissions run through the City of Charlottesville's contest page.
3. In their shoes (c-ville.com) — Charlottesville firefighters joined Albemarle County Fire Rescue at John Paul Jones Arena on September 12 to honor the 343 first responders who died on 9/11. Participants, some in full gear, climbed 2,200 steps to mirror the Twin Towers' 110 stories, turning remembrance into a demanding physical tribute that connected local crews to the sacrifices made that day.
4. UVA ranked ninth in national college free-speech rankings (cvillerightnow.com) — UVA in Charlottesville has been ranked ninth nationally in FIRE's 2027 College Free Speech Rankings, earning praise for its written policies but only a C overall. The survey highlights strong student tolerance for controversial speakers but lingering discomfort discussing topics like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. University leaders say they remain committed to free expression while considering the survey's feedback.
5. Autism Sanctuary helps participants thrive through farm‑based learning and support (nbc29.com) — Adults with autism from Charlottesville and surrounding areas are finding routine, nature, and community at the Autism Sanctuary's farm-based day program. Staff work with families and case managers to set individualized goals, then use gardening, animal care, music, and other activities to build skills, confidence, and friendships that carry into everyday life in Charlottesville and Crozet.
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Ok Charlottesville! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!
-- The Patch AM Team
P.S. The answer to today's riddle: because there are more geese on that side (Thank you jo L. for sending it in!)
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