Good morning, Gainesville.

The second annual Gainesville Reads festival started this week to fight back against Florida's high book bans and bring the community together—focusing on Edwidge Danticat’s essay collection We’re Alone—with more than 15 events across the city, ending with a keynote talk at Bo Diddley Plaza on Sept 27.

The Chabad UF Jewish Student Center will host a free forum called 'How Charlottesville Changed America' on Sept.

4 at 6:30 p.m. at 2021 NW 5th Ave. in Gainesville — historian Dr. James Loeffler will talk about free speech, hate speech and antisemitism.

Archer Elementary teacher Melissa Heitzler was awarded $500 and works hard to get her 5th grade students ready for middle school—she also leads the robotics program and the Junior City Commission.

Florida coach Billy Napier said USF’s defense is tough as the Gators prepare to host the Bulls at The Swamp on Sept.6 after a 55-0 win over Long Island.

He also expressed confidence in senior kicker Trey Smack—who is expected to improve after missing deep field goal attempts in the opener—and praised his defense for forcing turnovers last week.

The Florida Gators swept Norfolk State in their home opener on Sunday at the O’Connell Center, winning 25—18, 25—13, 25—12 and raising their record to 2—1.

Coach Ryan Theis said the team, with Jordyn Byrd’s 12 kills, will prepare to play USF at 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Yuengling Center.

Spencer Thomas Concert

6:30-10 p.m. — The Bull — Cost Info Not Specified — Experience a night of raw and heartfelt songwriting with Spencer Thomas and special guest Johanna Warren.

Run for Recovery 5k

8 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Depot Park — Registration required — Participate in a vibrant 5k run aimed at supporting recovery efforts in the community.

Sugaray Rayford Live in Concert

8-11 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Tickets required — Experience the powerful voice and message of Sugaray Rayford in a vibrant live performance.

Florida Gators Volleyball vs. Mississippi State Bulldogs

7-8:30 p.m. — Stephen C. O'Connell Center — VIP tickets and packages available — Catch the Florida Gators take on the Mississippi State Bulldogs in an exciting volleyball showdown.

D & S Classic Car and Antique Tractor Show

8 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. — The Barn at Rembert Farms — $25 per vehicle — Cruise into nostalgia with classic cars and antique tractors on display.

JJ Grey & Mofro Live

6:30-9 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — $TBD — Experience powerful southern soul and rock with gritty vocals and personal songwriting.