Good morning, Gainesville.

Residents of the Aqua at Windmeadows apartment complex have faced repeated water shut-offs this summer, with outages lasting from a few hours to multiple days.

Hallie Bell, a 24-year-old who has lived there for three years, documented 19 incidents and contacted local agencies over the frequent pipe breaks—residents remain uncertain about water safety.

At Alachua’s Swick House last Sunday, Color Me Culture held its quarterly 'Color Me Cookout' with grilled hot dogs and hamburgers, a live DJ and emcee, a spades tournament, and hip-hop and R&B bingo—drawing local adults and seniors together for food, games, and conversation—and the funds raised will support future community programs.

On July 22, Alachua PD removed an alligator from a storm drain and later arrested burglary suspect DJeff Chery, 42, near a car dealership—he now faces charges with a $25,000 bond.

Alachua County Public Schools announced that House Bill 1105 prompts stricter cell phone rules for the 2025—26 school year so students must keep personal devices off and out of sight on campus.

District officials said families should call the school front office in emergencies — they informed parents about the changes by email, phone and text.

Alachua County is reviewing three new commissioner district maps that aim to eliminate split precincts and balance district populations and demographics.

The Board of County Commissioners postponed discussing the maps at its August 12th meeting to focus on the upcoming budget, and one option may require Commissioner Ken Cornell to change his residence to remain on the board after 2026.

The Newberry City Commission approved a new two-year agreement with the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office that extends police services through Sept.

30 until 2027 and keeps the same patrol and investigation coverage as the existing contract. The deal adds a school traffic deputy at the Southwest 15th and U.S. Highway 27/State Road 41 intersection from 7 to 9 a.m. on school days for about $32,000 a year —aimed at easing morning congestion near local schools.

Several Gainesville-connected athletes shined at the USATF Outdoor Championships from July 31 to August 3 in Eugene—Robert Gregory ran a personal best to join Team USA for Tokyo while Anna Hall won her fourth U.S. heptathlon title.

Jasmine Moore defended her national triple jump title and local pros added other national medals that pave the way for more international success.

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.