Good morning, Gainesville.

NAACP of Alachua County hosted its annual Freedom Fund Banquet on Oct 26 in Gainesville—state Sen. LaVon Bracy Davis delivered the keynote speech that highlighted Gainesville’s civil rights legacy while community leaders were honored with awards.

The event recognized local achievements and celebrated efforts to advance civil rights.

Gainesville hosted its annual three-day punk festival at Depot Park as hundreds lined up Friday to register while over 350 bands performed in more than 15 venues—new acts including nearly 50 Fest freshmen added to the excitement.

The event continued amid stormy weather on the final day and featured local as well as international performers, reflecting the city’s enduring punk spirit.

Preston Damsky, a former UF law student, is suing the university for violating his First Amendment rights after his expulsion for antisemitic posts and a seminar that promoted white supremacy—UF said the action was taken to protect campus safety.

The University of Florida has conferred the title of institute to the UF Health Cancer Center, recognizing its strength in cancer research and care—drawing together more than 350 researchers from all 16 UF colleges.

The upgrade follows its status as the only public National Cancer Institute-designated center and will expand efforts in cancer therapy, prevention, and survivorship.

The annual Flatwoods 5K will take place at 8:30 a.m. November 1 in UF’s Austin Cary Forest—runners will pay $20 for registration, with those 12 and under racing free—and proceeds will support forestry education.

Billy Napier was dismissed as Florida's head football coach after 45 games and received a $21 million buyout that gives him time to explore new coaching roles—possible moves include head coaching positions at other schools or bridge jobs as an analyst.

Several programs are already considering changes during the ongoing 2025 season.

Two Gators, Alex Condon and transfer Xaivian Lee, were ranked among the top 10 international NCAA men's basketball players on Monday—Condon was named the best while Lee ranked fourth, and they will play in the season opener on Nov.

3 against Arizona.

Eastside Rams beat the North Marion Colts 45-25 Friday night at Santa Fe High School with standout performances from receiver Kaleb McKinnon who scored three touchdowns and contributions by running back Kamaryion Mack and Javaris Gardner—boosting the team's confidence as they prepare for a rivalry game against Gainesville High School on Halloween at Citizens Field at 7:30 p.m.

The baseball rivalry between Florida and Georgia has lasted almost 100 years and shows the Gators leading the series 195—119—2 while both teams have played in close, important games.

Florida will host an exhibition game against Jacksonville University on Oct. 31 at 6:30 p.m. as it looks to keep its strong run.

Florida football is off to its worst start this season but has a chance to rebound like the 1986 team that rallied from a 1-4 start to win key rivalry games — a reminder of past grit.

The Gators will play in Jacksonville and will face Florida State at home — a schedule that offers a fresh opportunity for a turnaround.

Interim coach Billy Gonzales said the team is focusing on internal improvements ahead of its game with No. 5 Georgia at EverBank Stadium on Nov.

1—making offensive tweaks like having Ryan O'Hara call plays and allowing time for injured players to heal. He added the team will get updates on Vernell Brown III’s recovery later today.

2025 Rock Paper Scissors Tournament

5:30-8 p.m. — First Magnitude Brewing Company — $65 for a team of 3 — Compete in a fun-filled evening of Rock, Paper, Scissors and enjoy food, drinks, and prizes.

Boo at the Zoo

3-7 p.m. — Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo — Trick-or-treating fun — Enjoy a safe Halloween celebration for the whole family at the zoo.

Flatwoods 5k Run

12:00 – 2:30 PM — 10625 NE Waldo Rd — Check website for registration fee — Experience the thrill of a local 5k amidst Gainesville's scenic trails.

Jammy Buffet

7-10 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — $ — Set sail on a musical adventure with Jammy Buffet's tribute to Jimmy Buffett's coastal storytelling.

Florida: A History in Pictures

7-8 p.m. — Matheson History Museum — Free entry — Discover the visual history of Florida through engaging highlights from a popular Facebook group.

Tom Petty Weekend

2-7 p.m. — Heartwood Soundstage — Free entry for students & kids 18 & under — Celebrate the musical legacy of Gainesville's own Tom Petty with a weekend of outdoor and indoor performances.

Aura Photography Family Days

12-8 p.m. — Florida Aura Research & Photography LLC — Pricing not specified — Explore vibrant aura photography with family in a colorful environment.

Tom Walker Half Marathon & 5k

8:00 – 11:30 AM — First Magnitude Brewing Company — Entry fees apply — Experience the scenic Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail at this popular running event.

Veterans in Business Fair

11 AM - 12 PM — Thomas Center — Free entry — Connect with procurement staff and fellow veteran-owned businesses while exploring available resources.

Florida Gators vs. Florida State Men's Basketball

7-8:30 p.m. — Stephen C. O'Connell Center — Tickets start at $29 — Cheer on the Gators as they face off against their rivals in a thrilling basketball matchup.