Good morning, Gainesville.

Star Center Theatre celebrated its 25th anniversary on May 3 at the Gainesville Woman’s Club with founder Rhonda Wilson explaining her vision to create a space where all kids can be seen and heard—Malik Moore later recalled that his early role there helped him build the confidence needed for his political career. The theater now serves over 250 children and continues to offer drama education that inspires a diverse community.

Dr. Santa Ono, current president of the University of Michigan and the sole finalist for University of Florida president, spoke at a forum at Emerson Alumni Hall in Gainesville on May 6—UF students and faculty heard his remarks firsthand.

Florida basketball coach Todd Golden signed a six-year, $40.5 million contract extension announced May 6 that nearly doubles his pay—making him the fourth-highest paid coach in college basketball.

He led the Gators to a 36-4 record and a national title in his third season.

Florida softball delivered its best performance last weekend when the Gators took two of three from top-ranked Oklahoma, which pushed them to No. 4 in ESPN.com/USA Softball and No. 7 in three other polls — and they begin SEC Tournament play today at 5 p.m. from Jack Turner Field in Athens.

Florida baseball hosted USF in its final nonconference game on May 6 at Condron Family Ballpark, Gainesville.

The Gators won four straight games and played without shortstop Colby Shelton (who is sidelined with a hand injury) as they tried to boost their postseason hopes.

The Buchholz baseball team hosts its third straight regional finals game tonight at Bobcat Park as it faces top 10 team Pace and looks to preserve its 30-1 record—using strong pitching and fast base running to offset a less effective offense.

Heavy rain across the Southeast delayed and postponed several SEC baseball games, and the Florida Gators overcame a more than three-hour delay in a road series against South Carolina with Ty Evans hitting a late grand slam—other teams played doubleheaders that added extra excitement to the weekend. Additional matchups, including a rescheduled doubleheader between Auburn and Tennessee and a split series between Texas A&M and LSU, increased the action despite the weather interruptions.

Florida men's basketball coach Todd Golden (39) agreed to a six-year contract extension through March 31, 2031, worth $40.5 million that raises his salary to $6 million, athletic director Scott Stricklin (who announced this on May 6) said.

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.