Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 4th of July.
Good morning, Gainesville.
🎓 Education
B.J. Novak will kick off UF Summer B semester Monday at University Auditorium by sharing creative insights with roughly 100 students—an event hosted by ACCENT Speakers Bureau.
Known for his work on The Office, he will draw on his notebook of ideas to inspire aspiring writers.
Alachua County Public Schools paused teacher step increases for 2026-27 after an Attorney General opinion stated only those rated effective or highly effective get extra pay.
The district is reviewing the issue with legal counsel (and the Education Association) while Education Support Professionals will still receive their increase.
📰 Lifestyle
Florida’s longest disability-accessible zip line opened at Zip at Haile Quarry in Newberry, offering an inclusive adventure.
The new attraction (designed for safety) provides a fun experience for riders of all abilities.
Gainesville bowler Doris Simonson will turn 100 on Tuesday, July 7 as she marks over 80 years in the sport + she continues to bowl weekly while celebrating her milestones with family and friends.
Her active lifestyle has long inspired the local community.
🏈 Sports
Former Florida basketball coach Billy Donovan joined the San Antonio Spurs as lead assistant coach after leaving the Chicago Bulls following six seasons.
He led Florida to national championships and was inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame in 2025 (according to ESPN).
TV20 reporter Julianna Reichenbach interviewed former Gator softball national champion Aleshia Ocasio, who now excels as a two-way player for the Carolina Blaze, on Friday in Gainesville.
The interview gave viewers a close look at her career journey and future plans.
The Gainesville Sun is counting down the top 30 players from the 1996 national championship team and has highlighted No. 26, Travis McGriff, who was a key receiver before a season-ending injury and now serves as offensive coordinator at Buchholz High School.
More player profiles will be shared weekly.
🎉 Gainesville Events
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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.
Grant Peeples Live Performance
7-8:30 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Tickets available — Experience heartfelt folk music infused with storytelling and humor from Grant Peeples.
🏠 Gainesville Real Estate
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💼 Gainesville Job Board
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📣 Gainesville Announcements
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