Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 5th of March.
Good morning, Gainesville.
UF suspended Hare Krishna’s campus lunch service yesterday after a box truck struck a student on campus, ordering the organization to immediately stop food service and vehicle access.
Vendors will return to The Streatery for the Spring Market Series beginning Friday, March 6, featuring 26 merchants, music, art and free workshops on weekend afternoons — the event runs each weekend through April 5 and wraps with the Big: Culture and Arts Festival from April 10 to 12.
Gas prices in Florida rose nearly 20 cents since March 2 as uncertainty in the Middle East pushed fuel costs higher; Gainesville stations reached $3.165 per gallon (according to AAA) and experts expect further gains in weeks ahead.
At its Tuesday meeting, UF student government inducted new senators as Aaron Rubaii became Senate president, Matthew Bravo took over as student body president, Donovan Francois became vice president and Marco Salvador was named treasurer.
Bravo ended his term with a farewell as he nears his final radiation session for Hodgkin's lymphoma (one session left).
Residents in east Gainesville oppose the school district plan to close historic Joseph Williams Elementary as part of proposed rezoning—concerns center on disrepair and capacity issues.
The board revised Map D and will vote on a final plan on Thursday, Mar. 12.
Florida basketball star Liv McGill has risen from early bench challenges to lead the Gators with record-breaking scoring and All-SEC honors this season.
She will guide her team in the SEC Tournament game against Mississippi State on Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. (detailed performance noted).
Florida football defensive end Jayden Woods said he remains at UF after entering the transfer portal and switched his jersey to number 0 (honoring his father's advice to stay consistent).
He plans to boost his team in spring practice under coach Sumrall.
Coach Jon Sumrall led spring practice on Tuesday at 8 a.m. at the University of Florida with his new coaching staff and returning players, though Dallas Wilson stayed out as a precaution.
The session focused on building energy and leadership while veteran quarterbacks and others practiced for starting roles.
The Florida Gators rallied in the seventh inning to beat Florida A&M 7-5 at Condron Family Ballpark Wednesday night+ It was their 13th straight victory with key plays driving the comeback.
The 57th annual AMALIE Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals begins today at Gainesville Raceway and will run through March 8, hosting top drag racers in multiple categories and featuring special events honoring the sport’s history, including appearances by racing legends.
Comedian Angelo Colina Live
7-11 p.m. — The Wooly — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of laughs with Venezuelan comedian Angelo Colina as he brings his stand-up in Spanish to Gainesville.
Gator Steps for Lung Disease 5K
8-11 a.m. — UF Genetics Institute — $35 to participate — A community-focused 5K run/walk supporting lung disease research and patient education.
2026 Gainesville Guitar Festival
7-10 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Tickets available — Celebrate guitar music with performances, workshops, and gear swaps at this annual festival.
Taste of the Bayou Love & Food Fest
12-6 p.m. — The Oaks Mall — Free entry — Celebrate local flavors with delicious bites and lively music in Gainesville's food fest.
2026 Escape the Swamp Triathlon
12-3 p.m. — 250 Gale Lemerand Dr, Gainesville, FL — Registration fee applies — Challenge yourself in this exciting sprint and super sprint triathlon event.
She Means Business Networking for Women
5:30-7:30 p.m. — Depot Village — Free entry — Connect with inspiring women in a supportive community focused on personal and professional growth.
Josh Meloy Live
7-9:30 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Tickets available — Experience the storytelling magic of Josh Meloy supported by rising Oklahoma artist Trenton Fletcher.
Jimmy Buffett's Escape to Margaritaville Musical
7:30 p.m. — Gainesville Community Playhouse — Ticket prices vary — Experience a hilarious musical filled with Jimmy Buffett's beloved classics.
BTS Comeback Kpop Cupsleeve Event
12-5 p.m. — Pearson Professional Center — Reserve your spot — Celebrate BTS’s comeback with themed drinks, contests, and fun activities.
Accomplice: A Thrilling Whodunit
2-4 p.m. — Hippodrome Theatre — Check website for ticket prices — Immerse yourself in a sharp, fast-paced thriller full of rivalries and deception.
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