Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 14th of March.
Good morning, Gainesville.
Flavors of Florida, which supported the UF Therapeutic Horticulture Program, took place Thursday evening at Champions Club on Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, with about 400 attendees sampling dishes from 25 local food stations and cocktail offerings.
Researchers also showcased Florida-grown coffee in a blind taste test.
The School Board approved a right-sizing plan to set new attendance zones for 2026-27 and close three schools, including Foster Elementary, by year’s end.
Superintendent Dr. Kamela Patton said the plan will reallocate funds from underused facilities to enhance educational programs (a decision on Irby Elementary will come in May).
Safer Schools Initiative is hosting a 5K run today at Tech City in Alachua to fund trauma kits for local schools—the event begins at 4 p.m. with a $30 registration fee and is followed by an after-party with music, food trucks and a silent auction.
City officials will award Less Than Jake a Key to the City at today’s benefit performance at First Magnitude Brewing Company.
The event — supported by Mayor Harvey Ward and Commissioner Bryan Eastman — benefits GRACE Marketplace and Bread of the Mighty Food Bank and proclaims Less Than Jake Day.
Alachua County Animal Resources will partner with Sweetwater Veterinary Clinic on March 21 from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. to offer low-cost pet care at the shelter at 3400 NE 53rd Ave. + services include vaccinations, microchipping, preventive medications and disease testing.
On Friday at the Memorial Coliseum in Lexington, the Florida Gators beat Kentucky 198.575-197.225 as Selena Harris-Miranda scored a perfect 10 on beam (tying the highest mark in program history).
The gymnastics team (12-2) will compete in the SEC Championship on Saturday, Mar. 21 in Tulsa.
Florida Gators will face Vanderbilt in the SEC tournament semifinals today at 1 p.m. E.T. at Bridgestone Arena (fans can watch on ESPN or stream via the ESPN app or Fubo).
The Gators beat South Carolina 1-0 in a 10-inning game on Friday night at Condron Ballpark.
Cash Strayer’s pop fly clinched the win in a pitching duel that saw strong outings from Liam Peterson and freshman sensation Joshua Whritenour.
After beating Kentucky on March 7 and extending their winning streak to 11 games while capturing their first SEC regular-season title since 2014, the Gators now prepare to defend their SEC Tournament title in Nashville this Friday + they aim to maintain early postseason momentum.
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.
Florida Gators Softball vs. Stetson Hatters
6-9 p.m. — Katie Seashole Pressly Stadium — Check for ticket prices — Catch the thrilling softball matchup between the Florida Gators and Stetson Hatters in Gainesville.
Spring Winds and Classics
7:30-9:30 p.m. — Lyceum Concert Hall at Santa Fe College — Cost not specified — Enjoy a performance by the Concert Band showcasing classical and modern works.
Stop Children’s Cancer Sapphire Soirée
5:30-10 p.m. — Reitz Union Food Court — Cost information not provided — Celebrate 45 years of impact while supporting childhood cancer research.
The Legends Gala
5:30-8:30 p.m. — Spurrier's Gridiron Grille — $1,250-$3,750 — Have a once in a lifetime opportunity to dine with all 3 legendary UF Heisman Trophy winners.
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