Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 27th of March.
Good morning, Gainesville.
🎓 Education
The school board approved a district rezoning plan that closes Alachua Elementary at the end of the 2027-28 year and Foster Elementary this year, while Oak View Middle School will become a PK-8 campus this fall.
A decision on Irby Elementary is pending.
On March 26, the Education Foundation of Alachua County and HCA Florida Healthcare launched the ‘Thank a Teacher’ program to honor outstanding educators in the county.
Joshua Forgione from Gainesville High School was the first recognized — nominations open each month to highlight teachers across the district.
🌲 Environment
North Central's Floridan aquifer has dropped below the 20th percentile this March (the lowest since 2011) as only 1.13 inches of rain fell; Alachua County remains under Phase II Severe Water Shortage, so residents and farmers are asked to conserve water.
🏛️ Government
Gainesville Regional Airport now sees TSA wait times of 1 to 5 minutes (measured at 8 a.m.) thanks to a Screening Partnership Program with private companies.
A Tallahassee landscaping company is collecting gift cards and non-perishable food donations to support unpaid TSA agents amid the government shutdown.
🏈 Sports
On Wednesday, Oak Hall lacrosse honored six seniors during a game that saw the Eagles defeat the Newberry Panthers 17-1.
The team (11-1) led with strong offense and will host Ponte Vedra on April 2.
At Florida’s 2026 Pro Day in Gainesville, 13 Gators participated in drills for measurements, vertical jump, bench press, and the 40-yard dash, watched by 68 NFL personnel.
Though Caleb Banks missed the drills due to a broken foot, players such as George Gumbs Jr. and Devin Moore impressed scouts (NFL).
Former Florida Gators quarterback DJ Lagway said he felt depressed and isolated in Gainesville due to injuries + mental health struggles during his freshman season, and he now transfers to Baylor where coach Dave Aranda aims to restore his talent as Florida starts a new quarterback battle.
Florida basketball guard Boogie Fland will return to the Gators next season (2026-27) after the team exited the NCAA tournament last year.
He announced his decision on Instagram on March 26 and said he has unfinished business as he works with the staff to improve his game.
Gators guard Urban Klavzar announced his return for his senior season on March 26 and will rejoin the team in Gainesville.
He expressed excitement about the coaching staff, teammates & the community as he aims for a championship run.
Florida junior midfielder Gabbi Koury scored a career-high four goals in a 13–10 win over Dartmouth on Saturday at Donald R.
Dizney Stadium — earning her third Big 12 Midfielder of the Week honor while the Gators prepare to open conference play at Arizona State.
🎉 Gainesville Events
Submit an event →
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.
Easy Honey Concert
7-10 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — $33 general admission — Experience the energetic sounds of Easy Honey in an intimate Gainesville venue.
Gainesville Asian Festival
10 AM – 4 PM — Bo Diddley Plaza — Free entry — Celebrate Asian and Pacific Islander culture with performances, food trucks, and craft vendors.
Easter Brunch Buffet
10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. — Best Western Gateway Grand — Adults $46.95, Seniors $38.95, Children $19.95 — Celebrate Easter with a festive buffet featuring delicious dishes and a joyful atmosphere.
Free Fridays Concert Series Featuring Crooked Counsel
7-9 p.m. — Bo Diddley Plaza — Free entry — Enjoy live '60s and '70s rock music under the stars with Crooked Counsel.
Executive MBA Spring Open House
9:15 AM - 12:00 PM — Hough Hall, Gainesville, FL — Free entry — Explore how the Executive MBA from UF can elevate your career with insights from program leaders and alumni.
Gainesville Speed Dating Event
7:30-9:30 p.m. — Tinker Restaurant — Ticket required — Connect with potential matches in an engaging and fun speed dating format.
Samantha Fish Live Concert
8-10 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Kids 12 and under free — Experience the powerhouse guitar and soulful melodies of one of today's most formidable musicians.
The Happy Fits Concert
12-10 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Tickets from $32 — Catch The Happy Fits live in an intimate setting.
🏠 Gainesville Real Estate
Submit a listing →
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
💼 Gainesville Job Board
Submit a job →
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
📣 Gainesville Announcements
Submit an announcement →
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
Stay in the know, Gainesville.
Free, always. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.