Arts and Entertainment

Aiming at helping the contestants find people they like, the event began with an introduction of the female contestants.

This free exhibit, which will run until March 18, is the first of its kind and shows Gainesville's presence in black history.

Micanopy may soon be home to a new entertainment venue. The Micanopy Town Commission and Planning and Historic Preservation Board recently approved the drafting of an ordinance that would ultimately allow Micanopy Canopy Connection to be used for musical and theatrical performances. Residents who attended the Tuesday meeting applauded the move - saying that it will bring more foot traffic to the town.

Major transformations have happened since 1986 and will continue to happen, but the mystical atmosphere the Hoggetowne Medieval Faire brings will always remain.

Two local artists, Jesus and Carrie Martinez, are painting High Dive's first mural since the 1990s. The mural features local schoolteacher Stephanie Lee, who Carrie Martinez said represents the diverse crowd High Dive attracts.

Science fiction author Rick Yancey asked his wife what her greatest fear was. She said aliens. This month she'll see her fear come to life on the big screen when Yancey's 2013 novel, "The 5th Wave," opens in local theaters.

Interesni Kazki, the famous duo of artists from Kiev, Ukraine, will begin painting a large mural Thursday in downtown Gainesville as part of the 352walls urban art project.

Lauren Groff, author and Gainesville resident, kicked off a five-part humanities speaking series, “Imagining Florida: The Place We Call Home.” It took place at the Alachua County Library District. Her latest work, Fates and Furies was named Obama's favorite novel of 2015.

Coloring isn't just for kids. Studies show that coloring is an effective way to stimulate the brain, and many adults use the activity as a temporary escape from stress.