Good morning, Gainesville.

Gainesville nonprofit Dream on Purpose seeks proposals from local contractors and vendors to renovate its future Youth Development Center and Office Space at 1124 and 1128 NW 76th Boulevard.

Questions are due by Monday, July 20 (11:59 p.m. ET) and proposals by Friday, July 24 (8:00 p.m. ET) to create a hub for youth empowerment.

Dr. Stuart R. Bell was approved as UF's 14th president on July 1; his SEC experience from Alabama is expected to boost Florida athletics as he plans to work with athletic director Scott Stricklin (who recently extended his contract) and support the Swamp renovation project.

Stuart Bell was confirmed as UF’s 14th president on Wednesday by the Florida Board of Governors, ending months of leadership instability.

Bell, who led the University of Alabama, will serve through June 30 as he works to boost enrollment and research growth at the university.

Alachua County School District kept its B grade for 2025-26 as 16 schools earned A marks while Rawlings received an F.

The state raised points for higher grades and the board approved closing three elementary schools and expanding two middle schools with district rezoning.

Consumer fireworks like sparklers are legal all year, but noisy or projectile fireworks can only be set off on New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, and July 4 for Independence Day celebrations (counties under burn bans still prohibit fireworks).

Alachua County reminded residents that the landscape fertilizer ban, which limits fertilizers with nitrogen or phosphorus to protect local waterways & aquifers, began July 1 and will continue until Feb.

28.

Consumer Reports tested rotisserie chickens from ten retailers on July 1 and found that Sam's Club produced the best chicken in flavor + safety for Florida shoppers.

The study evaluated six stores available locally while checking sodium levels and plastic chemicals to help consumers select a healthier meal option.

Rising senior Alex Condon, a Florida Gator, will debut for Australia’s senior basketball team at the FIBA Asian Qualifiers tomorrow at the RAC Arena in Perth + he is the third Gator to earn a senior national team call-up, following Andrew Nembhard and Mike Rosario.

Florida softball sophomore Taylor Shumaker was added to the U.S. Women’s National Team Athlete Pool with former Gators Jocelyn Erickson and Skylar Wallace for the 2026 team.

The pool will choose players for the World Cup Group Stage and USA Softball International Cup.

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.