Good morning, Gainesville.

Assurance, a new Gainesville-based nonprofit founded by Virginia Grant, connects caregivers in Alachua County to legal, emotional, financial, medical and social support—designed to ease time management, stress and resource challenges.

The organization will launch programs to build a community of support that helps caregivers provide better care.

Joseph Harold Wiggs, 22, was arrested last night after he allegedly threatened a dating partner with a handgun and kicked a police officer during his arrest on April 8—he now faces charges including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, false imprisonment, battery on a law enforcement officer, and resisting an officer without violence.

More than ninety people gathered in Turlington Plaza on Wednesday at noon to protest the deportation of Colombian UF student Felipe Zapata Velasquez after his arrest for driving with an expired license led to ICE custody last week.

UF student organizers and faculty urged expanding Student Legal Services to include immigration matters (currently not covered) after his transfer to Colombia.

Alachua County and local partners will host Earth Day 2025 events under the theme Our Power, Our Planet with activities scheduled from April 19 to April 27 that include a Community Reuse and Recycle Day at Santa Fe College, a tree planting event at Lincoln Middle School, art exhibitions and volunteer opportunities—residents can join to learn sustainable practices at various sites.

UF students cast 9,611 ballots over two days and gave the Vision Party a clear win in the Student Senate—taking nearly all contested seats and all top executive roles.

The Change Party won only two senate seats amid lower turnout—a drop from past contests, and the new senators will take office next month.

UF Health unveiled its new 40-foot OB/GYN Mobile Outreach vehicle on April 9th—designed to provide prenatal, postpartum, and preventive care to communities in Alachua and nearby counties.

The bus includes two exam rooms, a waiting area, lab space, and a wheelchair lift to help break barriers to care.

Florida coach Todd Golden led his team to a men’s basketball national title but his bonus of $175,000 ranked ninth among public-school coaches in a USA TODAY Sports analysis—other top coaches and women’s basketball leaders earned higher bonuses.

His total pay this season is set at $3.6 million—underscoring a bonus gap for the young coach compared to long-established figures.

The No. 4 Florida Gators lacrosse team won 17-7 against Jacksonville on April 9, with Gianna Monaco reaching her 100th point and Jordan Basso scoring her 400th.

The team recorded hat tricks in the first half to secure its eighth straight win and will travel to Boulder on Saturday at 1 p.m. to face Colorado.

Florida's Todd Golden led his men's basketball team to win a national championship but his bonuses and pay trailed those of many public-school coaches.

He earned $175,000 in bonuses this season and his $3.6 million salary contrasts sharply—coaches like Rick Barnes are set to get up to $1.2 million in bonuses.

Big: Culture and Arts Festival 2025

8:00 PM – 12:30 AM — Loosey's Downtown Gainesville — $45 — Experience a circus-themed celebration of music, art, and community with activities for all ages.

Gainesville Street Rods Cruise In

5:30-8:00 p.m. — Publix Super Market at Springhill Commons — Register your car for a chance to win prizes while enjoying DJ music and a fun family atmosphere.

Third Annual Bard & Broadside Poetry Festival with Lola Haskins

1-3 p.m. — Alachua County Library District — Free entry — Experience an engaging poetry reading and creative writing workshop led by acclaimed poet Lola Haskins.

Tech Coffee Social

8:30-9:30 a.m. — The Alchemy Work Club — Free entry — Relax and network over coffee with fellow tech professionals in a casual setting.

Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Florida Gators Softball

6-10 p.m. — Katie Seashole Pressly Stadium — Ticket prices may vary — Watch a fierce matchup between top college softball teams.

A Kingdom Social Lounge Experience

7-10 p.m. — Hippodrome Theatre — Cost not specified — Experience a serene gathering for the faith-based community to connect and share fellowship.

Alachua County Farmers Market

8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. — Alachua County Farmers' Market — Free entry — Discover fresh local produce and artisanal goods from nearby farmers.

Easter Brunch Celebration

11 a.m. - 2 p.m. — Sweetwater Branch Inn Lodging & Events — Check event page for pricing — Enjoy a delightful morning filled with delicious food, good company, and Easter cheer.

Pretty Woman The Musical

7:30-9 p.m. — Curtis M. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience a fresh take on the classic romance with a modern, empowered Vivian and a dynamic score by Bryan Adams.

South Florida Bulls vs. Florida Gators Softball

6-10 p.m. — Katie Seashole Pressly Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Cheer on the local teams in a spirited softball showdown.