A collection of interesting happenings and recent developments that contribute to the bright future of Greater Gainesville
Welcome, Mr. President
Hail to the new Gator-in-Chief. Former Nebraska Senator Ben Sasse is set to succeed current president Kent Fuchs on Feb. 6.
The President-designate holds degrees from Harvard, Yale and St. John’s College. He served as the president of Midland University in Nebraska before his election the United States Senate.
Sasse will be the 17th president in UF’s history.
Empowering Gainesville
The second annual Revolution Before Evolution Festival took place on Alachua High’s Soldier Field on Nov. 28.
This event, hosted by Swarthy East GNV, was designed to elevate the community’s Black-owned businesses and organizations. Participants included food vendors, candlemakers, artists, musicians and more.
A goal for Revolution Before Evolution was to spotlight disparity in resources for East Gainesville’s businesses and residents. This year’s contributors to Revolution Before Evolution Festival had fun while making sure their message was heard.
New Snacks and Sips
- Fat Tuesday brings their signature frozen cocktails to Celebration Pointe, just opened in November.
- Rincón Latino Market opened its doors on Newberry Road on Nov. 25 It specializes in various produce and prepared foods authentic to Latin America.
- Popular brunch locale Peach Valley Café plans to re-open their doors in the new year after relocating from Southwest 34th Street to Celebration Pointe.
Awards and Accolades
The Gainesville Chamber of Commerce held their annual business awards on Nov. 30. Some of the winners include:
- Small Business of the Year — Salon Ziba
- Commitment to the Environment Award — Florida Credit Union
- Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Award — Infotech
- Employer of the Year — Exactech
- Leading Women’s Business — Sweetwater Branch Inn
- New Business of the Year — Honey Bee Pediatrics
- Large Nonprofit of the Year — Grace Marketplace
Thrillist ranked Gainesville’s own Swamp Head Brewery the fourth-best brewery in Florida. Its notable brews listed were wild night honey cream ale and big nose IPA.
By Ryan Walsh.