Good morning, Gainesville.

Hall County teacher Jason Hughes died Friday night after a senior prank went wrong when rainy conditions led him to slip as students attempted to toilet paper his home (his family supports dropping charges against the students) while officials continue their investigation.

Gas prices in Gainesville increased by 49 cents to $3.27 today as rising crude oil costs from conflict in the Middle East drove local rates higher (AAA data).

The state average jumped from $2.78 to $3.22 while the national average rose nearly 27 cents to $3.45.

The Georgia Student Finance Commission waived application fees at Brenau, UNG and Lanier Tech this month to help students, while the Gainesville-based North Georgia Community Foundation named Don Grimsley as its new board chairman with members from Forsyth, Dawson, Hall and Jackson counties.

Lake Lanier parks operated by the Corps will reopen on March 24 for day use including boat ramps.

The agency will honor USACE Annual and America the Beautiful passes as it begins the 2026 recreation season.

Georgia lawmakers are considering a bill to require licensing for home inspectors so they must meet minimum qualifications, and real estate agents and inspectors say the move will improve consumer protection in property transactions.

Dempsey Dash 2026

9-11 a.m. — Brenau Amphitheatre — Registration fee applies — Participate in the annual 5K and 1K Fun Run in memory of Wayne Dempsey.

Chamber Chase 5K and 2 Mile Wellness Walk

6-8 p.m. — Riverside Preparatory Academy — Registration fee applies — Celebrate fitness with a fun run and wellness walk in Gainesville's community event.

Cinderella – Gainesville Ballet Company

7:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. — Pearce Auditorium — Tickets required — Experience the enchanting ballet adaptation of the beloved Brothers Grimm tale with magic and beautiful performances.

Cinderella – Gainesville Ballet Company

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Pearce Auditorium — Tickets available — Experience the enchanting ballet production of Cinderella, showcasing whimsical fairies and captivating performances.

Don’t Be Cruel: Elvis Tribute Show

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Hall at Bourbon Brothers — Ticket prices not specified — Experience the magic of Elvis with hits from his legendary career.

Monster Truck Wars

12 PM — Chicopee Woods Agricultural Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience thrilling action with monster trucks, mud racing, and tractor pulling at this family-friendly event.

Learn to Sew with Ana Whitfield: Pleats, Gathers, & Elastic

12-3 p.m. — Hall County Library North Hall Technology Center — Bring your own supplies — Dive into sewing basics and complete your first projects with expert guidance.

R&B, Inc. Live Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Hall at Bourbon Brothers — Check local listings — Experience the vibrant sound of an all-star R&B band featuring the vocal mastery of Keith Eatmon.

Women of the Woods Club

3-5 PM — Elachee Nature Science Center — Free admission — Empowering women to explore the outdoors and build skills in nature.

Bingo Loco - Early Show

5:30-11:30 p.m. — The Hall at Bourbon Brothers — Check the event page for pricing — Experience a wild, interactive bingo show featuring dance-offs and exciting prizes.