Good morning, Gainesville.

The U.S. Small Business Administration has recognized North Florida small business honorees to celebrate National Small Business Week with awards highlighting local success, and a free Virtual Summit (May 5 and 6) will offer workshops, mentorship, and federal resources to support growing entrepreneurs.

The board will vote on May 5 on converting Irby Elementary School from the only pre-K — 2nd grade school into a pre-K through 4th grade facility as teachers and community members rally to keep the school open amid district rezoning plans.

Officials reported yesterday that recent rain did little to lower wildfire risk in Alachua County; agencies will continue monitoring and advise residents on any necessary precautions.

Alachua County's brief showers did little to ease the severe drought that now threatens bees as low water reduces available nectar, prompting experts to urge residents to plant native species (and adhere to burn bans) for pollinator support.

Conservationists in Gainesville gathered on May 3 to hear an expert discuss how water shaped Florida’s history during the city’s Perspectives in the Park series.

The U.S. Forest Service team monitoring the Gun Range wildfire near Lake City has decreased its presence as officials work to contain the blaze.

Updated reports indicate that conditions have improved & responses are scaling down accordingly.

Hurricane Preparedness Week runs May 3-9 and offers daily tips to help residents check flood risks & evacuation zones before the hurricane season.

NOAA advises using online tools to verify home safety and prepare for potential impacts.

Florida softball, seeded third in the SEC Tournament, will open its campaign on Thursday, May 7 at 11 a.m. at SEC Network as they face the winner of Game 4 between Texas A&M and another team.

Million Dollar Quartet Performance

7:00-9:30 p.m. — Hippodrome Theatre — Ticketed event — Experience the musical retelling of the iconic recording session featuring Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash.

Florida Gators vs. Kentucky Wildcats Baseball

12-1 p.m. — Condron Ballpark — Free giveaway — Wrap up the SEC series with Florida Gators baseball facing off against Kentucky Wildcats.

81st Annual Newberry Watermelon Festival

9 AM – 4 PM — Newberry Watermelon Festival — Free entry — Enjoy family fun with games, crafts, and live entertainment while savoring delicious Florida Watermelon.

North Central Florida Women in Blues Showcase

3-6 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Celebrate the power of blues music with talented female artists in an engaging atmosphere.

Our Town by Thornton Wilder

7:30 p.m. — Gainesville Community Playhouse — Ticket prices vary — Experience the Pulitzer Prize-winning masterpiece that explores the essential truths of life in a small town.

Gainesville Speed Dating for Singles in Their 20s and 30s

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Tinker Restaurant — Ticket cost unknown — Connect with up to 12 local singles through engaging 6-minute dates.

Ole 60 Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Heartwood Soundstage — Tickets starting at $83 each — Enjoy a night of live music in Gainesville's vibrant venue.

UF Short Course in Horticulture

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM — Straughn IFAS Extension Center — Registration fees apply — Explore emerging environmental challenges and innovative horticultural solutions.