Good morning, Gainesville.

Organizers scheduled a celebration of life for longtime animal advocate Hilary Hynes on Saturday, Jan.

17 at Depot Park pavilions (2:00 to 4:00 p.m.). Hynes served Alachua County Animal Services for over 20 years and started the Paws on Parole program; all residents are welcome to attend.

Morgan Wallen will start his 'Still the Problem' tour in April 2026 with 23 shows across the country, including Gainesville on May 15 and 16, while tickets remain available for fans to see him and opening acts (Ella Langley and Thomas Rhett).

At HCA Florida North Florida Hospital, baby Cielo was born on Jan.

1, 2026 at 9:04 a.m., weighing 6 pounds and 6 ounces. The hospital celebrated several NICU births and will open a new standalone facility (205,000 sqft, 90 beds) in May.

Florida football is retooling its roster under new head coach Jon Sumrall as more than 20 players join the transfer portal and transfer visits from prospects at Georgia Tech, Penn State and Baylor begin this weekend.

Since Jan. 2, Florida's transfer portal has been active under new coach Jon Sumrall as players including running back Ja'Kobi Jackson enter the process, and the school will host visits from recruits like New Mexico's Dorian Thomas in upcoming days & more departures are expected by Jan. 16.

Florida football running back Ja'Kobi Jackson received a waiver that makes him eligible for the 2026 season after his injury limited him to four games last season — a move that may help if starter Jadan Baugh transfers.

The Gators will open SEC play in Columbia on Saturday at 8:30 p.m. ET against Missouri — they will take on several ranked teams and appear on ABC for two nationally televised games during the season.

New head coach Jon Sumrall is revamping the Gators roster as over 20 players weigh transfer decisions amid a busy transfer portal.

UF is hosting several official visits today and this weekend from prospects in key positions.

Florida basketball coach Todd Golden previewed the Gators’ SEC opener against Missouri during a press conference — his remarks offered key insights into the upcoming game.

Meet and Greet Social

6-8 p.m. — Northwest Grille — $36 annual fee — Enjoy good conversation and a casual evening with fellow adventurers in Gainesville.

The FTC Mary Andrews Marathon

1-7 p.m. — Gainesville Hawthorne Trail — Registration fees apply — Participate in this Boston Qualifier marathon, half-marathon, or a fun relay team event on a scenic course.

Race for Rehab: Recovery Remix 5K

1-4 p.m. — 1104 Gale Lemerand Dr, Gainesville, FL — Registration fees support community outreach — Dash towards health in a fun, throwback-themed run for recovery.

Some Enchanted Evening

Jan 28, 2 PM — Hippodrome Theatre — Ticketed event — Experience a romantic musical journey featuring timeless classics from beloved shows.

Alabama Crimson Tide at Florida Gators Basketball

6:59-10:59 p.m. — Stephen C. O'Connell Center — Ticket prices vary — Witness a thrilling college basketball showdown between the Alabama Crimson Tide and Florida Gators.