Development

The historic bluff oak tree on the University of Florida’s campus was torn down over one weekend, and now advocates are moving forward after the removal of the tree they tried to save.

Bert The Bluff Oak, a heritage tree on the University of Florida's campus, will be torn down sometime in the next week, according to Steve Orlando, senior director of UF media relations. UF has settled on design that will remove 36 trees in the area, including five other heritage trees.

The Hal Brady Recreation Complex in Alachua and Champions Park in Newberry are hosting teams for the Babe Ruth League World Series. Sixty-one teams will compete in various tournament styles beginning on July 31 and ending with the championship games on August 4.

Off The Griddle is one of the food trucks in Gainesville that provide alternative dining options. Michael Musoke, owner of Off The Griddle, said the trucks cost between $20,000 to $100,000, which is less than it would to open and maintain a restaurant.

Cuddle Time opened in Gainesville as a professional way to offer clients cuddling services. The non-sexual business was founded as part of an effort to comfort those who desire human interaction.

Florida’s tax-friendly laws and Gainesville's status as a college town makes it an attractive location for tech companies.

Local restaurants reaped the benefits following the growth of Gainesville's food truck culture. Wholly BBQ Café and Cimplify use their proximity to food truck rally locations as ways to competitively increase their customer numbers during events.

A memorial for Josh Greenberg, the co-founder of music streaming service Grooveshark, was held Friday evening at the Phillips Center. He was found dead in his home July 19.

Erica Rodriguez Merrell is a co-owner of Wild Iris, the last feminist bookstore in Florida. She has shaped Wild Iris over the last few years into a radically inclusive community, providing everything from safe spaces to emotional support.

The Matheson History Museum received a $300,000 special category grant from the Florida Department of State. The money will go toward renovating the exterior of the building, which will then be opened as a library, archive and community meeting space.