Good morning, Gainesville.

Local business M&R Rentals will open a new Athens location on Monday along Maxey Boulevard.

Founded in 1967, the company will offer earth moving, aerial, underground and compaction equipment.

Brenau University will hold its 147th commencement on Friday at Free Chapel on McEver Road in Gainesville, where 347 students will receive their degrees.

Expect extra traffic and ticketed seating while the ceremony is streamed live (tickets required) for those who cannot attend.

Forsyth County fire officials issued a burn ban Friday due to wildfire risks which prohibits all recreational fires (including backyard fire pits and campfires) ahead of the summer state burn restrictions; Gainesville officials continue the month-long suspension of burn permits.

Lakeview Academy edged Riverside Prep in a close soccer match — the Lions will face Tallulah Falls on Tuesday.

Gainesville's Red Elephants swept Decatur at Ivey-Watson Field on Apr.

24 and advance to the second round + they will host either Glynn Academy or Winder-Barrow in a home series.

Cherokee Bluff defeated Mary Persons on Saturday, Apr.

25 (in Flowery Branch) to advance to the Class 3A state playoffs’ second round and will face No. 1 Troup next round.

North Hall swept Long County in a two-game series in Gainesville on April 24 — with Ty Kemp leading the charge — to open their Class 3A state playoffs run.

The North Hall girls defeated Calhoun in the state tennis playoffs on April 23 (in Calhoun) and will face the Luella/Mary Persons winner in the quarterfinals.

USO Dance and Desserts Fundraiser

7-9 p.m. — Gainesville Civic Center — Fundraiser event — Enjoy a lively 1940s canteen featuring dancing and desserts.

First Friday Concert Series

7-10 p.m. — Main Street Gainesville — Free entry — Enjoy live music in the historic setting of Downtown Gainesville's Square each first Friday of the month.

Foodees Fest at Lakeshore Mall

1 PM - 7 PM — Lakeshore Mall — Free entry — Enjoy a weekend filled with delicious food, unique crafts, and family fun at this community festival.

Artist Showcase Reception – Gallery on the Square

5-7 p.m. — Main Street Market — Free entry — Discover the vibrant artistry from 13 local talents showcasing oils, acrylics, pottery, and more.

BlackHawk Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Hall at Bourbon Brothers — Tickets required — Experience timeless hits and heartfelt storytelling from one of country music’s enduring acts.

Satisfaction - A Tribute to The Rolling Stones

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Hall at Bourbon Brothers — Ticket prices vary — Experience the energy and timeless style of The Rolling Stones in this authentic tribute show.