Good morning, Gainesville.

Volunteers with Habitat for Humanity broke ground yesterday for a new home for Gainesville resident Octivia Tensley and her family — the project aims to give them safe, affordable housing.

Gainesville police are investigating an armed robbery when a man entered Shell (at the corner of 34th Street and Archer) at 9:42 p.m. and stole hundreds of dollars.

The Independent Florida Alligator received the Al Neuharth Award for Excellence in the Media from the Freedom Forum, making it the first student newspaper honored alongside major news outlets, and former editors and reporters accepted the award on Wednesday evening in Washington, D.C. & the win marks a milestone in the paper's commitment to quality journalism.

County Manager Michele Lieberman presented the 2025 Annual Report at the June 24 meeting to review past accomplishments and outline future goals for county departments.

She also shared her FY26 budget message—recommending a reduction in the property tax millage from 7.618 mills to 7.6 mills.

The NewboRN Home Visiting program in Alachua County offers free in-home support for new mothers and babies with health checks, breastfeeding help and car seat safety guidance—all funded by the Children’s Trust.

Families may enroll after a hospital discharge to receive personalized care and referrals for additional support.

The Utah Jazz selected Gator guard Walter Clayton Jr. with the No. 18 pick (traded from Washington) as part of the draft, and he averaged 22 points per game while leading the Gators to a national championship and earning honors including SEC Tournament MVP.

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.