Good morning, Gainesville.

The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression released a report on July 29 that rated 13 Florida colleges based on free speech policies.

The University of Miami received a red light + four schools, including UF and FSU, earned green lights while eight others got yellow lights.

At the Alachua County School Board meeting, Chair Sarah Rockwell apologized for her Facebook comments about Hulk Hogan’s death and 32 people voiced their opinions on the issue.

Rockwell said she faced death threats (including having her home address shared) and most board members (all except Janine Plavac) supported her apology as she regretted distracting focus from school work.

Alachua County Library District started building a new Hawthorne Branch designed to replace its current library — work including parking lot removal is underway and the 10,000-square-foot facility with new reading and study areas will open in early 2026 while the present branch stays open.

Nike has released the Florida Gators Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 41 running shoe as part of Nike’s 2025 NCAA Collection for the upcoming college football season.

The shoe costs $154.99—while Florida prepares to kick off its season in about four weeks against Long Island.

Florida freshman wide receiver Dallas Wilson showed strong play in fall camp after catching 10 passes for 195 yards in the spring game and scoring a touchdown in practice on July 30 — teammates said his size, speed and work ethic make him a standout for the Gators.

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.

Tech Coffee Social

9-10 a.m. — Karma Cream — Free entry — A relaxed morning gathering for tech enthusiasts to network and enjoy coffee conversations.

Veterans Living With Cancer Support Program

7:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. — Hilton University of Florida Conference Center — Free entry — A supportive initiative tailored for veterans facing cancer treatment and survivorship.

Meet and Greet at Ballyhoo Grill

6-8 p.m. — Ballyhoo Grill — Free entry — Enjoy a casual evening of conversation and discover the Adventure Club of Gainesville.