Good morning, Gainesville.

Family-friendly events will take place on July 4 across North Central Florida, featuring parades, fireworks, live music and races in areas such as Alachua, Bradford, Marion and other counties—organizers say activities will start in the morning and continue into the evening to celebrate Independence Day.

Gainesville residents attended 'Tha Cookout' at Cynthia Chesnut Park on Sunday afternoon to celebrate Juneteenth and honor Black fatherhood during an event organized by local leaders from SupportBLKGNV.

Volunteers served hot food and drinks while vendors offered crafts and games — the event strengthened community ties and brought families together.

The Alachua County Sheriff’s Office released a jail booking log for June 22 that lists arrests of several individuals on charges from moving traffic violations to domestic battery (records are public and all suspects remain innocent until proven guilty) with mugshots available when provided.

Tevin Octavius Campbell, 34, who was on pretrial release, was arrested on June 23 after allegedly choking his ex-girlfriend when he learned she was pregnant by another man at Campus Walk Apartments—he fled before officers used a taser to subdue him.

The Lightning Safety Council warns that anyone who hears thunder is in danger because lightning may strike over 10 miles from a storm—Florida remains the state with the most lightning strikes per square mile.

National Lightning Safety Awareness Week runs from June 22nd to 28th to remind everyone of the dangers and proper safety steps such as waiting 30 minutes after the last thunder before going outdoors.

Gov. DeSantis signed a new law—giving condo groups more options for future repairs—that may help lower high monthly fees after stricter rules were set following the 2021 Champlain Towers South collapse.

Foot Reflexology Training for Massage Therapists

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Florida School of Massage — $400, $350 if paid by June 14th — Enhance your massage practice with specialized reflexology techniques and insights.

Vacation Bible School 2025

9 a.m. to 12 p.m. — 8001 NW 23rd Ave, Gainesville, FL — Free entry — Engage kids from Kindergarten to 5th grade in a week of fun, learning, and community service.

Learn to Draw From Life Workshop

6-9 p.m. — Nightjar, Gainesville, FL — Class 1: $5 Reservation Fee, Classes 2 & 3: Pay-What-You-Can — Explore the fundamentals of drawing through engaging lessons in a supportive setting.

Jack Gamble Melon Run

8-11 a.m. — Albert Ray Massey Park — Entry fee applies — Celebrate Independence Day with a refreshing three-mile run in Gainesville's favorite tradition.

Live Music with Kenna Dee

7-11 p.m. — Mother's Pub & Grill North — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of acoustic favorites and delicious bites in a lively atmosphere.

Candlelight: Tribute to Queen

6:30-8:45 p.m. — Hippodrome Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a live orchestra's candlelit homage to the legendary rock band Queen.

An Evening with Dauzat St. Marie

7-10 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Check event for cost — Experience the powerful Americana duo Dauzat St. Marie weaving soulful melodies.

Candlelight: A Tribute to ABBA

8 p.m. — Hippodrome Theatre — Experience the iconic hits of ABBA performed by a string quartet in a spectacular setting.

Early Bird Metal Show: Nibiru, Northwood, Sardaukar

7-10 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — All ages — Experience an electrifying night of local metal with Nibiru, Northwood, and Sardaukar igniting the stage.

Open House at Eloise Gardens

4-7 p.m. — 6326 SW 90th St — Free entry — Discover a spacious, remodeled home with luxurious features in Gainesville's charming community.