Good morning, Gainesville.

Three UF research programs lost NIH funding for biomedical research for disadvantaged students and now face uncertainty over their future support - the MARC program’s grant remains terminated indefinitely while SF2UF will receive support until July 31 and the NEURON-Aging program’s future is unclear.

Three UF research programs lost NIH funds, leaving the MARC program terminated indefinitely, the NEURON-Aging program ended, and the SF2UF grant reinstated only until July 31—disadvantaged students now face challenges in pursuing biomedical research opportunities.

U.S. Rep. Randy Fine proposed a bill on July 23 to turn 2,800 square miles of preserved land including Ocala National Forest and Paynes Prairie into Florida’s 64th national park—interior officials will study the area’s suitability within three years—and public voices remain divided on whether the move will protect local springs.

Residents at Sunrise Inn in Alachua County report that worsening conditions such as visible mold and leaks are causing health issues—county officials repaired some safety hazards but full renovations will not begin until 2026.

Residents have repeatedly asked for accountability as they endure unsafe living conditions.

On Sept 15, Alachua County Public Schools held a school safety meeting in Gainesville—local first responders including Sheriff Chad Scott, Police Chief Nelson Moya, and Fire Rescue Chief Joseph Hillhouse discussed priorities to keep schools safe.

Interim Superintendent Kamela Patton led the meeting to outline necessary safety actions.

The No. 11 Florida Volleyball team beat No. 20 Baylor in a five-set match on September 15—winning 25-20, 22-25, 27-25, 22-25, 15-9—and freshman Lily Hayes scored a match-winning ace to clinch the contest.

The Florida Color Horse Club held its United Colors Western Dressage show at the Alachua County Agriculture and Equestrian Center in Newberry on Sept.

13 and 14. Competitors from across Florida competed in various classes—officials tallied scores during events—to showcase different horse breeds.

On Saturday night, Gators sophomore DJ Lagway threw five interceptions, tying a Florida record from 1992 as LSU defenders, led by safety Dashawn Spears who returned one for 58 yards + made key plays to shift the game.

Coach Billy Napier said Lagway will work to bounce back as the team prepares for its night game at Miami.

Florida Gators quarterback DJ Lagway threw five interceptions in a 20—10 loss to LSU, tying for the second-most interceptions in team history.

Coach Billy Napier said he will keep Lagway as the starter as the team works to get better before facing undefeated Miami on Sept. 20.

Sports columnist Pat Dooley criticized Florida after DJ Lagway threw five interceptions on Saturday night, saying the young quarterback’s struggles and a weak offensive line have cost the team valuable opportunities.

He offered his betting picks for upcoming college football games + stressed that continued offensive issues could hurt the team’s chances this season.

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.

Magic City Hippies Live in Concert

7:00-10:15 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Tickets available — Groove to the sun-soaked funk and indie tunes of Miami's Magic City Hippies.

Bingo for Carson Springs Animals

6-8 p.m. — Swamp Head Brewery — Ticket proceeds benefit local animal nonprofit — Enjoy a fun-filled evening of bingo for a good cause.

The Bridge City Sinners "Break the Chain" Tour

6-8:30 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — All Ages — Experience an eclectic fusion of dark folk, Americana, and punk from the Bridge City Sinners and special guests.

40th Annual Fall Arts Festival

10 a.m.-5 p.m. — Shoppes at Thornebrook — Free entry — Experience a weekend of creativity and community spirit at Gainesville's beloved arts festival.

Vanderbilt Commodores at Florida Gators Women's Volleyball

1-2:30 p.m. — Stephen C. O'Connell Center — Free entry for youth — Enjoy an SEC volleyball showdown featuring giveaways for kids.