Good morning, Gainesville.

Renovations are underway at the former Budget Inn and Scottish Inns to convert them into 67 permanent housing units for vulnerable residents by the end of Sept—county leaders said the upgrades include essential safety improvements and modernized mechanical systems.

Gainesville filmmaker Barry McLeod will be honored with the Outstanding Creative Award for his more than 40 years in the entertainment industry at a kick-off reception on May 16 (Rosa B.

Williams Center at 524 NW First St.) during the 5th Avenue Arts Festival. The festival will offer music, art and community resources on May 17-18 at Santa Fe College Blount Center.

4th grade teacher Erin Remes at Terwilliger Elementary was awarded $500 and has taught for 10 years—she is now in her second year at the school.

She said her students' growth and enthusiasm keep her passionate about teaching.

Hurricane Preparedness Week runs from May 4 to May 10 and focused on preparing for hurricanes before the season begins on June 1.

Officials advise local residents to gather supplies, check insurance, develop evacuation and communication plans, and strengthen their homes—steps recommended to ease a potentially volatile hurricane season.

Alachua County began renovations yesterday on the former Budget Inn and Scottish Inns in Gainesville to create 67 permanent housing units for vulnerable residents by the end of September; the Budget Inn will have 36 one-bedroom units while the Scottish Inns will offer 31 units—each project is estimated to cost about $4 million.

At the May 1 meeting, the City Commission directed School Board representatives to return with a proposal for a Citizens Field stadium if the city transfers the field to the school district.

Commissioner Chestnut asked to delay the discussion until after consultants report in June—while the School Board will address the issue today at 6 p.m.

Florida baseball swept South Carolina over the weekend at Founders Park, outscoring the Gamecocks 39-8 in three games despite missing leading hitter Colby Shelton - senior outfielder Ty Evans showed a power surge while coach Kevin O'Sullivan earned his 750th win as rain delays forced changes to the pitching staff.

The Gator Baseball team improved its season after sweeping South Carolina last weekend, moving to an 11–13 record in SEC play and putting them in a good spot for a regional bid if they win one more game.

Florida Softball got a first-round bye in the SEC Tournament and Florida Lacrosse earned the #4 national seed for the NCAA regional.

After their first-ever series win over top-ranked Oklahoma at Katie Seashole Pressly Stadium that featured home runs and timely hits, the Florida Gators softball team says its confidence is boosted for the SEC Tournament in Athens — a win that energized the team — and they will open play Wednesday at 5 p.m.

Season Finale Pops — HornSquad

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Jackson N. Sasser Fine Arts Hall — Ticketed event — Experience a delightful evening filled with surprises and popular treats at the orchestra's annual celebration.

Haile Farmers Market

8:30 AM – 12:00 PM — Plantation Hall in the Haile Village Center — Free entry — Experience a vibrant market featuring fresh local produce and artisanal goods every Saturday.

Gainesville Cars and Coffee Gathering

8 AM – 5 PM — Ford's Garage Gainesville — Free entry — Gather with fellow car enthusiasts at this casual community event.

Larry & Joe Concert

7-10 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a captivating evening with a unique blend of Joropo and bluegrass music.

Melody Trucks & Fitzkee Brothers Concert

7-10 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Tickets available — Experience a powerful blend of Southern rock and improvisational fire.

Fifth Avenue Arts Festival

10 a.m. - 5 p.m. — Santa Fe College Charles L. Blount Center — Free entry — Celebrate local arts and culture at the 45th Annual Arts Festival featuring artists, performers, and vendors.

Business League Workshop Series

2-4 p.m. — Good Life Station — Free entry — Enhance your marketing and networking skills at this informative workshop featuring Shelley Vickers.

Kyran Daniel Live Performance

7-10 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Check event page for details — Experience the remarkable musical talent that's been captivating audiences.

Story Time at the Zoo

10:30-11:00 a.m. — Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful story time in a natural setting, perfect for families and children.

Southeast Outdoor Sectionals 2025

8 a.m. — 10404 SW Williston Rd — Registration required — Compete in 14 Field, 14 Hunter, and 14 Animal rounds in the quest for Outdoor National Series Champions.