Good morning, Gainesville.

Stuart Bell has been named interim president by the UF Board of Trustees and his contract begins today for one year with a $2 million salary & 20 performance metrics.

He will work with trustees to set a strategic vision while hiring permanent leaders and enhancing campus safety.

The UF Board of Governors votes today on a five-year contract to make Stuart Bell the official president after trustees named him interim on June 10; his term will run from July 1 to June 30, 2031 with a $2 million base salary and performance incentives.

Florida Credit Union’s Amazing Teacher program honored Kai Holyoke (a dedicated educator who revived art classes after nearly 30 years) at Newberry High School, where she will add an AP Art course next year.

UF students in sport management and applied physiology must complete an unpaid internship before graduation, with some facing delays and extra tuition expenses when interning off-campus (such as at out-of-state resorts).

Many say the requirement, though offering real-world experience, burdens financially.

Gainesville residents will gather on July 4 at Bo Diddley Plaza for a free Defending Democracy concert that will serve as Mike Klein's congressional campaign launch.

The event runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and features live music, speakers, food trucks & voter registration opportunities.

Florida has announced two 2026 sales tax holidays that offer savings on school supplies and outdoor gear.

The back-to-school holiday runs from July 20 to Aug. 20 — the outdoor supplies holiday follows from Sept. 1 to Dec. 31.

Medical experts warn that residents using SSRIs or TCAs may face more risk during a heat dome this week, with feelings of up to 112° in some areas.

Those on these medications should watch for signs like heavy sweating and dizziness (and take extra care outdoors).

Experts advise Gainesville residents to keep indoor temperatures below 90°F by setting thermostats between 70 and 78°F during today’s record heat—this range helps balance comfort and energy savings.

Adjusting the thermostat when the home is unoccupied may also reduce energy costs and lower heat-related risks.

Florida's softball program secured transfer portal catcher Kairi Rodriguez and infielder Tori Edwards to boost the roster for the 2027 season.

Rodriguez (from Duke) returned after injury and Edwards is a top transfer from LSU as the team also welcomes the No. 2 ranked recruiting class in 2026.

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.

Skweezy Jibbs Movie Premiere

6:30-8:00 p.m. — The Wooly — Tickets required — Enjoy the premiere of a comedy mockumentary about the making of a blockbuster film.

Parrotfish Live Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Signal Lounge — $10 cover — Experience the scummiest, most lovable rock band from Florida that promises an unforgettable live show.

Underoath Live Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — The Wooly — Tickets available — Experience an energetic performance by Underoath with soaring choruses and hard-hitting rhythms.

Asian Food Festival in Downtown Gainesville

3-11 p.m. — Depot Park — Free admission — Celebrate Asian cuisine with 60+ food vendors, live entertainment, and cultural performances over a fun-filled weekend.

Health & Safety Camp

1-5 p.m. — Millhopper Station South Community Association — Cost not specified — Engage early adolescents in fun activities focused on health, safety, and social skills.

The Main Event Basketball Tournament

All Day — Alachua County Sports & Events Center — Admission fee varies — Experience a weekend of competitive youth basketball as regional teams showcase their talent.

Summer Indoor Market at The Abbey

9 a.m. – 1 p.m. — The Abbey at Blackadder — Free entry — Shop local for fresh produce and unique crafts at this vibrant indoor market.

L'Eclair Live Performance

7-8:30 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Ticket required — Experience the psychedelic funk sounds of 'L'Eclair' with hypnotic grooves and global rhythms.