Good morning, Gainesville.

On Saturday, Gainesville held a ribbon cutting at Tom Petty Park after a $2.6 million renovation funded by a local tax.

Upgrades include eight pickleball courts, improved trails and lighting, and bathroom updates by Gainesville-based Scorpio Construction, officials said will boost community access and local business.

Oak Hammock at the University of Florida was recognized as a Certified University-Based Retirement Community—the highest status among similar communities nationwide.

It offers residents academic and health services with a connection to UF's museums, events, and campus facilities.

Four news stories to expect include a local cancer survivor sharing hope on National Cancer Survivors Day, a wildfire near Goethe State Forest potentially affecting Monday’s commute, local scouts celebrating the end of school year with an outdoor foam party, and Florida commit Addison Allaire excelling at the Show Me the Money Tournament.

Gainesville entrepreneur and Air Force veteran Dustin Reed Terry acquired ArmedForcesNews.com today and plans to build a trusted military news outlet that will compete with national platforms—strengthening his media portfolio.

Local scouts are hosting an outdoor foam party today to celebrate the end of the school year, plus organizers say the event builds character and leadership skills through fun, hands-on learning.

The National Hurricane Center downgraded Tropical Storm Amanda to a depression yesterday and is watching a system in the Gulf that could develop into a tropical storm later this week.

Residents are advised to follow local forecasts for updates.

Rising insurance costs and sea-level concerns are pushing more South Florida residents inland, with Gainesville projected to gain 23,000 new residents by 2100 (UF research indicates this trend).

City leaders are already planning steps to strengthen homes and plant more trees.

Local cancer survivor Heidi Walker, diagnosed with stage one cervical cancer in October 2020 & having completed treatment, shared her message of hope on National Cancer Survivors Day to inspire others.

Safe Kids North Central Florida urged parents to prioritize water safety after several drowning incidents and injuries increased; UF Health Shands advises using the Water Watcher strategy plus installing safety barriers, life jackets and constant supervision to protect young swimmers. The press release was issued on June 7.

Addison Allaire, a Florida commit and Gatorade Player of the Year, showcased his skills at the Show Me the Money Tournament last night in Gainesville, impressing local fans and scouts.

Tech Coffee Social

9-10 a.m. — Resident Coffee — Free entry — Kick-start your day with stimulating conversations and connections among tech professionals.

FREE Live on the Lawn: The Savants with The Shambles

6-9 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Free entry — Enjoy a relaxing outdoor concert featuring classic rock favorites in Gainesville.

Gainesville Toddler Multi-Sport Program

9:00-10:50 a.m. — Veterans Memorial Park — $90 — Engaging multisport activities for toddlers aged 18 months to 4 years during summer.

Bird and Byron Acoustic Performance

6-9 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Check event page for pricing — Experience indie rock and soul with heartfelt songwriting from the Nashville-based duo Bird and Byron.

Eden Brent Live Blues Performance

7-10 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of piano-driven blues and storytelling from award-winning artist Eden Brent.

Juvenile Live at Heartwood Soundstage

7-10 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Ticket prices vary — Experience a high-energy hip-hop performance with classic hits and crowd favorites.

Celebrity Bingo Fundraiser

6-9 p.m. — Senior Recreation Center — Community support event — Enjoy an evening of celebrity bingo, games, prizes, and food while benefiting Gianna’s Place.

#iDoit4mycity Weekend: Services Event

3-7 p.m. — Pulp Arts — Free entry — Engage in a vibrant community experience with a mix of entertainment and education over the weekend.

WUFT’s Fanfares & Fireworks

6-10 p.m. — UF Bandshell at Flavet Field — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day Eve with live music, food trucks, and a dazzling fireworks finale.

AVELLO Concert

9:00 p.m. — Vivid Music Hall — Ticketed event — Experience an electrifying night with AVELLO in Gainesville.