Good morning, Gainesville.

Kanapaha Middle School band director Michael Loffredo was named Amazing Teacher of the Month today after doubling enrollment from 130 to 300 over four years, creating a space that fosters creativity.

The award, sponsored by Florida Credit Union and The Sun, recognizes his dedication to his students.

Students in Alachua County can begin applying online for dual enrollment at Santa Fe College on Monday, Feb.

2. The tuition-free program lets high school students earn college credits based on ACT, SAT, or PERT scores.

GRU said its electric fuel adjustment will increase from 40 mills to 45 mills beginning Feb.

1 as winter storms drive up gas prices. The utility noted the charge is a pass-through expense (no profit is made) and urged customers to follow energy-saving tips to lower bills.

Flu cases in local schools have increased as students returned to class after winter break, with health officials noting a surge in positive tests and emergency visits.

Officials advise parents to consider the FluMist program offered at schools to help reduce the risk of severe illness.

Former Florida guard Alijah Martin is making an NBA impact with the Toronto Raptors after his strong G League performance and a call-up to the Rising Stars mini-tournament on Feb.

13 in Los Angeles. Other ex-Gators have posted notable starts this season.

Florida Swim and Dive returns today after a bye week to host Florida State, with diving starting at 11 a.m. at The Swamp + swimming departing for Ocala at noon.

Seniors will be honored before diving as the team prepares for SEC Championships later this month.

Florida gymnastics is off to a strong start as transfer eMjae Frazier and four freshmen (including Amelia Disidore, who competed in several events) add valuable depth to the team.

The Gators will build on these performances as they prepare for upcoming SEC meets and nonconference competitions.

Gators forward Rueben Chinyelu was named to the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year watch list after he recorded his 12th double-double in Wednesday's win over South Carolina.

The Nigeria native remains a key presence in Florida's frontcourt.

Emerson Hoyle, a redshirt senior for the Gators, missed the season due to neurological complications but cheered for her team at the O’Connell Center — she is set to return for her final season with renewed purpose.

P.K. Yonge boys basketball beat Hawthorne 57-47 on Wednesday at Hoskins Gymnasium for their third straight win.

Coach Willie Powers III said the team delivered the first blow and will face upcoming opponents Thursday and Friday at 7:30 p.m.

Former Gator Ben Shelton lost to Italian Jannik Sinner in the Australian Open quarterfinal (Jan.

28) in Melbourne, ending his run for the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup. He will return at the Nexo Dallas Open on Feb. 7.

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.

Thornebrook Spring Arts Festival

10 AM - 5 PM — Shoppes at Thornebrook — Free entry — Explore a vibrant collection of art and creativity in various mediums at this community festival.

Makaya McCraven Live Performance

9:30 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Check for ticket details — Experience the innovative sounds of drummer and composer Makaya McCraven blending jazz, hip-hop, and global traditions.