Big Gators News, Honoring Veterans, and More

November 11, 2024

Good morning, Gainesville:

Today, we honor the brave men and women who’ve served our country. Gainesville has a strong legacy of service, and we’re grateful for the veterans who call this place home. Whether it’s a family member, friend, or a neighbor, today’s a moment to recognize their commitment and sacrifice.

Full slate ahead… let’s get to it!

🌡️ Monday High is 85°F and Low is 67° with 80% chance of rain | Tuesday: High is 84°, low of 63° with 5% chance of rain | Wednesday: 81°F and Low is 59° with a 4% chance Thursday: 80°F and Low is 57° with a 9% chance of rain ⛈️ ☀️ 

📰 The General Scoop:

🏫 Alachua’s New Interim Superintendent Board members are ironing out a contract with Kamela Patton, set to take over as interim superintendent on November 18. Patton’s package includes a $19,500 monthly base salary ($234K annually), plus allowances for housing, a car, and a cell phone. Some adjustments, like cutting the car allowance by $200, are still being negotiated, but Patton is on board. Patton, Florida’s 2022 Superintendent of the Year, brings a strong track record from Collier County. The board will meet again on November 13 to finalize the details.

🏀 UF Basketball Coach to Lead Team Monday Despite Title IX Investigation UF men’s basketball coach Todd Golden was recently accused of sexual harassment and stalking, and the allegations are under Title IX investigation. That said, he will be on the sidelines for Monday night's game against Grambling State, according to the UF Athletic Association. Golden has acknowledged the inquiry, retained an attorney, and expressed confidence in a swift review process.

📰 Business News

⚾️ D-BAT’s Big Pitch Coming to Gainesville Swing into action! Texas-based D-BAT, known for its elite baseball and softball training, is bringing a 14,669-square-foot facility to the Oaks Mall in May 2025. Located across from the UF Health ENT Center, the new spot promises indoor batting cages, pitching machines, and a pro shop for players of all ages. According to Colliers, this project has been in the works for over two years—and they’re thrilled to finally bring it to life!

🏅 Sports News:

🏈 Gators get gutted Even the most optimistic Gator fans had a hard time holding out hope in Saturday’s rout of the Gators in Austin with a massive amount of key players out with injuries. Florida's defense had been holding strong, but Saturday was a rough outing, as they fell 49-17 to No. 5 Texas. The Longhorns ran up 562 yards, with Texas QB Quinn Ewers hitting 333 passing yards and throwing multiple TDs against a UF secondary missing key players.

🏐 2 Big Wins for Volleyball Gator Volleyball rolled as it swept both Auburn and Alabama 3-0 on Friday and Sunday respectively. The Gators are

📆 Things to Do:

Monday November 11th:

Veterans Day Celebration @ Veteran’s Memorial Park (9 AM - 12:30 PM) The county and various veterans organizations are hosting an event to honor the service and sacrifice of American veterans.

Veterans Day Parade @ Bass Pro Shops (11:30 AM) Catch a mid day parade to honor America’s veterans. The first 200 folks will get a free American flag.

Gator Men’s Basketball vs. Grambling State @ Exactech Arena (7 PM)

Tuesday November 12th:

💐 Growing Native Wildflowers @ UF IFAS extension Alachua County (2:30 - 4 PM) Come learn how to plant and sustain wildflowers in our beautiful North Central Florida area.

Wednesday November 13th:

💃 Line Dancing @ Swamp Head Brewery (6 PM - 8 PM) All skill levels welcome for this free line dancing lesson!

Gator Women’s Basketball vs. Chicago State @ Exactech Arena (7 PM)

Thursday November 14th:

🏃 Run with the Cops @ Santa Fe College (9:30 AM) Run, walk, or roll alongside local law enforcement for a morning of fun to support vulnerable populations in our area.

🐦️ Birding and More at the Dry Tortugas @ Cypress and Grove (7 PM) Interested in a birding, camping, and a trip to the Dry Tortugas but don’t know where to start? This is the event for you!

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Have a great day!
Lauren
Swamptown Scoop