Good morning, Gainesville.

NCFL shelters urge families to avoid gifting pets as holiday presents because shelters are full and many foster families are away during the holidays plus they recommend choosing a pet together to ensure lasting care.

Eligible residents in rural North Central Florida may receive free devices and three years of 4G LTE service through the Figgers Foundation program.

The initiative aims to boost internet access in underserved areas and is available to those who meet the qualifications.

Renovations at Tom Petty Park are halfway done + the park will add new pickleball courts scheduled to open in February or March 2026 while tennis courts remain closed for necessary work.

Updated public restrooms and a completed section of the multi-use path mean that upgrades will finish by mid-2026.

University of Florida graduate Mark Porter tested over 5,000 strawberries to pinpoint genes linked to peachy & caramel aromas that boost flavor.

The research at the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center promises faster development of improved varieties.

Researchers at UF Innovate are testing new polymer membranes to separate CO2 from industrial gas streams in Gainesville.

The project (funded by the National Science Foundation) aims to reduce energy use in natural gas processing and lower overall industrial energy costs.

Former UF president Ben Sasse announced on social media Tuesday that he has stage-four pancreatic cancer—an advanced illness that leaves him limited time.

He said his family is preparing for upcoming treatments.

Former UF President Ben Sasse, now a UF professor, announced on Dec.

23 that he has stage-four pancreatic cancer. UF administrators and local officials extended their support as he prepares to face the illness.

After transferring from Columbia, Sam Miller is preparing to adjust to SEC baseball intensity as he eyes a 2026 starting shortstop role with the Gators.

He is adapting to larger crowds at Condron Family Ballpark & his Ivy League Player of the Year season highlights his talent.

LB Aaron Chiles re-signed for his junior season with the Gators after playing 25 games.

The linebacker joins a revamped unit led by coach Hardmon and coach Gasparato as the team gears up for the 2026 season.

The Gators are retaining junior linebacker Jaden Robinson, sophomore EDGE rusher LJ McCray and offensive lineman Jason Zandamela to work with new coaches including Gator alum Phil Trautwein.

Robinson recorded 50 tackles in 12 games, McCray is set to showcase his five-star talent, and Zandamela will return in 2026 to learn in Gainesville.

Oak Hall’s Estella Collante was chosen as the Girls Cross Country Runner of the Year from the fall sports season.

Fans can vote for their favorite among seven nominees (unlimited votes allowed) until Dec. 29 at 12 p.m.

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!

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.

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.

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.