Good morning, Gainesville.

The Gainesville Police Department introduced PJ— a Comfort/Therapy Dog—to help ease stress for officers, first responders, victims and witnesses today.

The 1-year-old purebred Black lab from Rucker Dog Training has already been deployed in local schools and supported a parent experiencing a challenging situation.

After finishing first in Columbus earlier this month, Sandra Deal Elementary School in Hall County is asking for donations to help send its Odyssey of the Mind State Team to the world championship.

Team head Guy Cassels said the funds will cover transportation, lodging, meals, and competition fees—giving students a chance to compete internationally.

A recent survey by the Gainesville Housing Authority at the Resiliency Extravaganza and Housing Festival found that additional public transportation topped community needs with 8 votes—more than votes for affordable housing, mental health access, playgrounds, greenspace, senior housing, community centers, and gardening opportunities. Officials will use the survey results to guide future transportation plans.

The Hall County Commission will meet on Monday to review three agenda items: a proposal to resurface 5.68 miles of county roads with a $2.7 million GDOT Local Roads Assistance grant, an agreement to add sewer capacity for 135 homes in Sterling on the Lake Subdivision, and new subdivision proposals for parcels on Lake Drive and Old Wilkie Road. The commission will vote on these measures to advance county infrastructure — a key step in planning future improvements.

On Friday, lawmakers ended the session early when Senate Majority Leader Steve Gooch adjourned proceedings shortly after 9 p.m.—many key bills, including proposals on state oversight and election groups, stalled in the House.

Lawmakers will pick up work on these issues in the next session in 2026.

On April 4, high school baseball games were played, with North Hall beating Johnson 16—0 in three innings and Greater Atlanta Christian winning 8—0 over Chestatee in Region 6-AAA.

In Regions 8-AAA and 8-AAAA, West Hall won two games over East Hall while close contests also took place between teams like Oconee County, North Oconee and Walnut Grove.

Book Tote DIY Painting Session

4-6 p.m. — Hall County Library North Hall Technology Center — $9.74 — Unleash your creativity by painting a unique tote bag for your reading collection.

2025 Happy Hippy Llama Show

April 11-13 — Chicopee Woods Agricultural Center — Entry Deadline April 1st — Experience a vibrant llama show featuring multiple judges and competitive points.

Downforce Race Battles

4-10 p.m. — Caffeine and Octane's Lanier Raceway — Ticketed event — Experience thrilling grudge match racing in a vibrant car culture atmosphere.

Flowery Branch Spring Festival

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Flowery Branch Amphitheater — Free entry — Enjoy a day of fun with food trucks, live music, and family-friendly activities.

Cresswind’s Electronics Recycling Drive

11 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Cresswind at Lake Lanier | Clubhouse — $20 per flat-screen TV — Safely dispose of your unwanted electronics while supporting sustainability.

Parents Workshop – The Path to College

10-11 p.m. — Brenau’s Banks Recital Hall — Free entry — Learn about the college application process and scholarship opportunities in Spanish.

Southeastern Championship Bull Riding

6 PM — Chicopee Woods Agricultural Center — Ticket cost unknown — Experience thrilling bull riding action at this regional championship event.

Spring Preview Day 2025

9 a.m. – 12 p.m. — John S. Burd Performing Arts Center — Free entry — Explore potential opportunities at Brenau University and learn more about what they offer.

Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy in Gainesville

10:00 p.m. – 1:30 a.m. — 3263 Tanners Mill Rd, Gainesville, GA — Ticketed event — Dive into the chilling tales of Poe while enjoying themed cocktails crafted for each story.

Lanier Technical College Foundation 5K

9:30 AM – 1:30 PM — Lanier Technical College — $TBA — Participate in a lively 5K run sponsored by Kings Hawaiian to support local education.