Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 17th of January.
Good morning, Gainesville.
WCJB TV20 will launch 'Weekend Wakeup,' its new weekend morning newscast on Jan.
24, airing (6 a.m. to 8 a.m.) on Saturdays and Sundays.
A major Popeyes franchise in Florida filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on Jan.
15 because of the pandemic, rising prices and labor problems. Most restaurants should stay open as the company works to reorganize under court rules.
Florida schools will close Monday, Jan.
19 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, giving students a three-day weekend, while Alachua schools observed a teacher work day on Jan. 16 (resulting in a four-day break).
UF scientists at the Crop Transformation Center in Gainesville and Lake Alfred are using gene editing and AI to develop citrus trees that may resist greening — they are testing these promising lines with Florida growers to help protect local crops.
Buchholz High School teacher Christin Vinson was named national Amazing Teacher of the Month on Jan.
15 — earning a $5,000 award sponsored by Florida Credit Union in partnership with The Sun — for her classroom achievements.
Alachua County Victim Services & Rape Crisis Center is launching a free 10-week writing support group for women and nonbinary survivors starting in late February and meeting on Wednesday afternoons from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Participants can call or text to complete an intake and receive session details.
Florida Gators track and field kicked off their indoor season at the two-day Jimmy Carnes Invitational at the Alachua County Sports and Event Center on Thursday, Jan.
15, and raced against rivals (Florida State, Miami and UCF) on Friday amid collegiate and high school competition.
Kevin Roberts Jr. signed with Florida baseball earlier this week and confirmed his commitment to the Gators while stressing the school’s strong academic program (he plans to earn his master’s degree) despite coaching changes.
The versatile athlete from Jackson Prep is drawing attention ahead of the upcoming draft.
Florida's basketball team will face Vanderbilt at Memorial Gymnasium today at 2 p.m. on ESPN as the Gators, ranked No. 20, seek to use their strong rebounding & guard play to counter Vanderbilt's challenges after its first loss.
Florida football under first-year coach Jon Sumrall continues to build its 2026 roster with new transfer additions and returning starters.
More than 20 players entered the transfer portal while key players like Jayden Woods, Jadan Baugh, and Dallas Wilson remained with the team.
Florida women's tennis, ranked No. 23 in the nation following a strong fall season, is set to open the spring season today when the Gators travel north to face Charleston Southern University at 1 p.m. EST.
Florida coach Todd Golden said basketball guard AJ Brown will redshirt this season as he recovers from a torn labrum from last season; Brown will continue practicing with the team to maintain his skills.
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.
Florida Indoor High School Championships
9 AM – 3 PM — Alachua County Sports & Event Center — Admission info not specified — Experience thrilling high school track and field events with heats and finals.
Reverend Horton Heat Live Performance
7-10 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Tickets available — Experience a high-energy mix of rockabilly, country, and punk in a vibrant live performance.
Galentine’s at Raise Your Glass Wine Bar
7-9 p.m. — Raise Your Glass Wine Bar & Food — $ — Celebrate friendship and enjoy fabulous energy and wine with your best friends.
Bella Notte - A Valentine's Day Event
7-10 p.m. — Sweetwater Branch Inn — $20 deposit, $89 per person — Experience a romantic evening with Italian cuisine, fine wine, and live music for Valentine's Day.
Roy Book Binder with Corey Hall
7-9 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Ticket info not provided — Enjoy storytelling blues and a blend of musical styles from Roy Book Binder.
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