Good morning, Gainesville.

Gainesville police confirmed a crash on Williston Road near the I-75 on-ramp killed a baby and a toddler — others were injured in the accident — and the investigation is underway.

A two-vehicle collision early Thursday on SW Williston Road near the I-75 northbound onramp killed two children and injured two adults when a 49-year-old man driving a 2013 Nissan van and a 28-year-old Gainesville woman driving a 2019 Nissan Altima collided (the children, a 6‐month‐old and a 22‐month‐old, were riding in her vehicle).

Gainesville police arrested 20-year-old Xzavier Taylor Hawkins yesterday on kidnapping charges for allegedly forcing a friend to drive him away from the scene of a July 2 shooting — officers are investigating the incident after the victim was treated for a shoulder wound.

In Gainesville, African Unique and Euro Food Basket International Market serve as community hubs by offering ethnic foods that ease homesickness.

African Unique stocks West African staples such as palm oil and fufu — while Euro Food Basket offers Eastern European treats that bring back childhood memories.

At the July 8 meeting, the County Commission heard from about 18 residents who opposed a housing development near Paynes Prairie and approved a preliminary plan for Ironwood Industrial Park—with conditions on traffic, wetlands, and building heights—and set new maximum property tax and MSTU rates along with changes in Fire Assessment fees for next year. County officials said they will continue review of the project in upcoming hearings to address environmental and community concerns.

After Tuesday evening’s release by the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients, UF Health Shands Hospital’s liver transplant program was rated the best in the nation for its short wait times and high one-year survival rate — its lung transplant program ranked top in Florida and among the national leaders.

A USA TODAY review ranks Florida’s Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville as the toughest SEC stadium—its loud fans and strong home-field record create unmatched game-day energy—while other venues from LSU’s Tiger Stadium to Vanderbilt’s small stadium are rated for their unique atmospheres.

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.

Alachua County Farmers Market

8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. — Alachua County Farmers' Market — Free entry — Explore local produce and goods from growers within 50 miles.

Florida 4-H Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. — Reitz Union — Ticket information available — Celebrate the 2025 inductees of the Florida 4-H Hall of Fame and their contributions to youth development.

Fire Rescue Cadets Compete at the Gator Fire Games

9 AM – 4 PM — Alachua County Sports & Event Center — Free entry — Watch aspiring first responders in action as they tackle challenges modeled after real-life situations.

Spooks N Sips Night Market

6-10 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Free entry — Enjoy a spooky-themed evening market with over 70 unique vendors.

Together We Rise - Recovery Is Possible

12-5 p.m. — Cellon Oak Park — Free admission — A day dedicated to healing and learning about recovery support services in Alachua County.