Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 15th of April.
Good morning, Gainesville.
🏘️ Community
The Friends of the Library is hosting its Spring Book Sale featuring over 500,000 items, most priced between 25 cents and $5, to offer Gainesville residents budget-friendly reading options.
Forecasters say hurricane season starts June 1 and experts urge residents to build their hurricane kit now to avoid crowded stores and higher prices despite permanent tax exemptions on many supplies.
The advice follows the end of Florida’s temporary sales tax holiday for hurricane materials in 2025.
Frog Song Farms in Hawthorne will lead a 10-month pilot for a new food hub — part of Alachua County’s Fresh Food Pathways Project that aims to strengthen local produce distribution and improve food access.
Officials hope the pilot will support more farmers and boost job training opportunities.
On March 24, 2026, the Alachua Lions Club hosted its 86th annual Cattlemen’s Banquet, drawing over 400 attendees for an evening of food, music and community fundraising.
The event awarded Dr. Timothy T. Marshall as Cattleman of the Year and honored local leaders Dr. Christine Hirsch and Floyd Tillman.
💼 Business
Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, part of Darden Restaurants, is scheduled to open May 11 at 3989 Plaza Blvd in Gainesville’s Butler North shopping plaza & will replace the former Bahama Breeze restaurant.
🌲 Environment
Wildfires burned over 7,200 acres as drought conditions persist across Florida, and burn bans remain active in 26 counties; drivers on SR 24 near Gainesville are advised to stay alert (reports show nearly 80% of the state is in extreme drought conditions).
🏛️ Government
Gainesville Community Reinvestment Area invites licensed contractors and lenders to resource fairs from 6-8 p.m. on four consecutive Mondays starting April 20 at the MLK Jr. Multipurpose Center.
The events link providers with property owners seeking renovations under the 8th Avenue & Waldo Economic Development Incentive Program.
Downtown Gainesville began a $4.5M renovation of the Streatery on April 13, fencing off part of SW First Ave to start work on ADA access, lighting, landscaping and drainage.
The two-phase upgrade will finish by October + improve event space for festivals and markets.
📰 Real Estate
Data from Realtor.com showed that Alachua County’s median home price fell to $242,000 in January, down 26% from December’s $328,500.
Single-family home prices dropped 16% while condos and townhomes increased 13% as recorded overall sales also declined compared to January 2025.
🏈 Sports
At Ben Hill Griffin Stadium Saturday, head coach Jon Sumrall said the Gators narrowed the quarterback race to transfer Aaron Philo and freshman Tramell Jones Jr, shifting toward disciplined play focused on decision-making.
The team expects this structured approach to shape its next era on the field.
Florida football coach Jon Sumrall expressed concern about the offensive line's readiness after the spring game at The Swamp on April 11.
He said the linemen must build strength and refine their skills during summer workouts to prepare for fall camp.
Coach Tammi Reiss confirmed Monday that forward Mallory Miller joined the Gators' 2026–27 roster.
Miller averaged 9.6 points (her highest at Butler) and will add offensive versatility to balance a roster now at three forwards.
Oak Hall defeated Newberry 16-0 in the district semifinal on Monday, April 13 — and the team will host Ocala Trinity Catholic for the district championship Thursday at 7 p.m. marking their fourth matchup in this title series.
🎉 Gainesville Events
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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.
Florida Gators vs. Jacksonville University Dolphins Baseball
6:30-10:30 p.m. — Condron Ballpark — Support your team — Cheer on the Gators as they face off against the Dolphins in this exciting college baseball matchup.
Yonder Mountain String Band Concert
8-11 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Tickets from $81 — Enjoy an evening of live bluegrass and string band music in Gainesville.
Singer Songwriter Showcase
7-9 p.m. — Bo Diddley Plaza — Free entry — Enjoy original performances from local singer-songwriters in a lively downtown setting.
Spring Fling Depot Station Family Event
4-7 p.m. — Depot Park — Free entry — Enjoy family-friendly activities like mini golf, face painting, and a kids vendor market in a festive atmosphere.
Ani DiFranco Live Performance
7-11 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Ticket pricing varies — Enjoy a night with the Grammy-winning singer-songwriter passionately showcasing her influential folk and indie music.
Free Fridays Concert Series Featuring mamish and Ricky Kendall
7-9 p.m. — Bo Diddley Plaza — Free entry — Enjoy live performances from local artists in a vibrant outdoor setting.
Alachua County Master Gardener Spring Plant Sale
9 AM – 1 PM — Alachua County Agriculture and Equestrian Center — Free entry — Discover over 6,000 Florida-friendly plants and get expert gardening advice.
Florida’s Story as Told by Water
1-2 p.m. — Hogtown Creek Headwaters Nature Park — Free entry — Discover Florida's narrative through water in a captivating presentation.
🏠 Gainesville Real Estate
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💼 Gainesville Job Board
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📣 Gainesville Announcements
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