Daily
Gainesville
Saturday, December 20th, 2025
Good morning, Gainesville. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 20th of December.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ High Springs police delivered gifts with Santa, the Grinch and a giant gingerbread woman to more than 30 families Friday morning during Operation Holiday Cheer, which has run annually since 2008, and officer Miner said he enjoyed seeing the children’s smiles; the team will return next year. WCJB
- ➤ The University of Florida started the Heirs Property Clinic to help low-income families sort out property rights after a loved one passes. Law students assist Alachua County residents with probate matters – offering free legal support during difficult times. WUFT
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Officials at a local private Christian school closed early for winter break on Saturday, Dec. 20 due to many sick students; the first week of school starting Jan. 6 will serve as the final week of the semester. WCJB
- ➤ The Frazer School has shifted to a new board — including namesake Will Frazer — as it plans to become a nonprofit next year to address cashflow problems; discounted tuition offers and a January open house have reassured parents. The Gainesville Sun
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ WUFT’s Krista Jensen visited Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park yesterday where visitors explored the 120-foot sinkhole and park trails. The report noted that active adults and families have enjoyed the scenic, natural setting in the park. WUFT
- ➤ UF professor Raelene Crandall explained the vital role of prescribed burns in protecting Florida ecosystems during a recent presentation at the University of Florida, noting that the practice helps reduce wildfire risk and maintain healthy land. WUFT
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ A University of Florida study found that pregnant women are increasingly using marijuana despite uncertain risks for the unborn child, according to lead author Aime Goodin, assistant professor of pharmaceuticals. The research was reported on Friday, Dec. 19. WUFT
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ UF freshman relief pitcher Joshua Whritenour (recovered from Tommy John surgery) is preparing to pitch with a 98 mph fastball and a new changeup grip as he looks ahead to debuting at the Gators’ season opener on Feb. 13 in Gainesville. WRUF
- ➤ TV20's sports forum (aired yesterday evening) featured Jake Rongholt and Steve Russell discussing why the Gator men’s basketball team has a strong chance in the SEC. The program offered local insight on the team's prospects. WCJB
- ➤ Fans in the Gainesville area can vote for the best Small School Volleyball Player of the Year from 11 nominees; the poll closes at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 21 (this follows the release of the All-Area teams after the fall season ended). The Gainesville Sun
- ➤ Florida football retained Gerald Chatman as its defensive line coach and assistant head coach on Friday. Chatman, pursued by LSU, will stay with the team as it builds a new staff under head coach Jon Sumrall — a move that strengthens UF's coaching ranks. GatorSports
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Tulsa Golden Hurricane at Florida Gators Women's Basketball
2:45 p.m. — Stephen C. O'Connell Center — Tickets available — Cheer on the Gators as they face off against Tulsa in women's basketball action.
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Dartmouth Big Green vs. Florida Gators Basketball
6-7:30 p.m. — Stephen C. O'Connell Center — Admission varies — Watch the Gators take on Dartmouth in an exciting basketball showdown, followed by postgame layups!
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Family New Year’s Eve Bash
4-8 p.m. — Dave & Buster's Gainesville — Tickets required — Celebrate 2026 early with food, games, and family-friendly countdown fun.
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Meet and Greet Social
6-8 p.m. — Northwest Grille — $36 annual fee — Enjoy good conversation and a casual evening with fellow adventurers in Gainesville.
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The FTC Mary Andrews Marathon
1-7 p.m. — Gainesville Hawthorne Trail — Registration fees apply — Participate in this Boston Qualifier marathon, half-marathon, or a fun relay team event on a scenic course.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.
~ Maya Angelou
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