Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 7th of August.
Good morning, Gainesville.
📰 Economy
Recent research shows that Florida’s annual cost of living averages $62,618 as rising housing, insurance and childcare costs put pressure on local budgets.
Gainesville residents may see similar trends as expenses for utilities and groceries increase + overall living costs continue to climb.
🎓 Education
The University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications and Saga Communications announced a seven-year agreement effective Sept.
1, 2026 to jointly market advertising for WRUF-AM & WRUF-FM. The deal will boost student learning and industry collaboration in local broadcasting.
Candidate Janine Plavac will seek a new permanent superintendent and scrutinize district spending if elected to the District 1 seat on Aug.
18, citing concerns over school rezoning and low academic ratings at Rawlings Elementary. She currently serves after her 2025 appointment and faces two local rivals.
🏥 Health
Florida health officials reported 342 cyclosporiasis cases since May 1 — including a recent jump of 88 cases across 42 counties.
They advise residents to wash produce thoroughly to help prevent infection.
🏈 Sports
Florida junior Skye Blakely will compete in all four events at the 2026 Xfinity U.S. Gymnastics Championships in Phoenix to secure a spot on the U.S. Senior National Team and a place at the World Championships.
She recently won bars + beam at the U.S. Classic and powers the Gators.
Florida football coordinator Buster Faulkner is tapping advice from Florida legends including Spurrier and Meyer to revive the offense ahead of the new season.
Hired from Georgia Tech last December, he is working with a talented roster including running back Jadan Baugh to boost scoring.
Florida football entered the 2026 season unranked in the US LBM preseason Top 25 poll, but first-year coach Jon Sumrall said the team is focused on playing over rankings (even as it received the second-highest votes).
The Gators will open their season on Sept. 5 against Florida Atlantic.
Florida football center Harrison Moore has joined the Rimington Award watch list while running back Jadan Baugh is on the Maxwell Award watch list.
Both players will compete as UF prepares for the upcoming season.
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