Good morning, Gainesville.

Gainesville’s Cold Night Shelter program expands its winter outreach when temperatures fall below 45°; St. Francis House admitted an extra 20-25 guests Monday and is open today with beds, meals, and supplies (blankets and towels) provided by donors.

On Jan. 25, firefighters from LaCrosse Fire Department, Alachua County Fire Rescue, High Springs Fire Department, and Florida Forest Service quickly contained a brush fire on SR-121 plus prevented it from reaching nearby homes with no injuries reported.

Lowbar coffee and Bushel and Peck bakery opened a joint cafe on Friday at 1001 NW Fifth Ave, serving espresso and pastries from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekends — the space features painted skateboards and checkered floors.

Today, U.S. News ranked University of Florida first for online bachelor’s degree programs—citing strong engagement, technology, and teacher training.

The review of nearly 1,850 online programs also recognized several UF online master’s degrees as top performers.

Florida Department of Education and Volunteer Florida invite students and educators to join 2026 Black History Month contests.

The art contest for grades K+3, essay contest for grades 4+12, and educator nominations for an Excellence in Education Award must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. Eastern on Monday, Feb. 9.

UF Health transplant programs are recognized among the nation’s best in lung, liver and kidney transplants based on reports released earlier this month by the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients.

The Gainesville teams maintain a patient-first approach & deliver consistent, high-quality care from pre- to post-operation.

Florida women's basketball will face LSU Monday night at 7 p.m. after its win over Missouri — coach Finley said the Gators will need consistency to shock a ranked team on the road.

Former Florida baseball standout Harrison Bader signed a two-year contract (worth $20.5 million) with the San Francisco Giants on Jan.

26. The 31-year-old, who played for the Florida Gators, spent time with the Twins and Phillies and now joins his seventh MLB team.

Eastside High School celebrated its 20th state title anniversary during a 54-48 win against Williston on Saturday, and former players received the championship trophy and cut-down net at halftime (a tribute to the team’s famed defensive play), underscoring the lasting legacy of Eastside basketball history.

Santa Fe High boys soccer dominated with an 8-0 win over Palatka in the Class 3A-District 4 semifinal on Friday night, with forward Dharma Rico recording his first hat trick.

The Raiders will face Eastside for the district title today at 7:30 p.m.

Florida football begins spring drills on March 3 and will hold its annual Orange and Blue Spring Game on Saturday, April 11, at The Swamp with a noon kickoff under new head coach Jon Sumrall; the team will practice in March and early April while adjusting its roster.

The Gators fell from No. 16 to No. 21 in the USA Today Coaches Poll after splitting games last week.

Their win over LSU (79-61) and loss to Auburn at home led to the change.

Florida men's basketball lost at home to Auburn (their first loss there in nearly 30 years) on Saturday.

The team will look to rebound on the road against South Carolina later this week.

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.

AM/FM Festival

1-10 p.m. — How Bazar — Free entry — Celebrate Gainesville’s music scene with a showcase of local artists from various genres.

2026 Florida Ruminant Nutrition Symposium

Feb 23-25 — Best Western Gateway Grand — Cost varies — Explore cutting-edge strategies in dairy and beef cattle nutrition at this premier symposium.