Good morning, Gainesville.

Edmondson Telford Child Advocacy Center in Gainesville is raising $1 million to convert its 5,000 sqft basement — currently used for storage — into a space designed for abuse survivors in Hall and Dawson counties.

Local garden enthusiasts will enjoy the biennial Garden Walk hosted by Hall County Master Gardeners on May 16 (a chance to explore varied landscapes) in the county.

Gainesville’s annual First Friday concerts return downtown, starting with Rock Station on May 1, Rubiks Groove on June 5 and a July 3 event with the Fly Betty Band and fireworks.

The concerts have vendor booths, food trucks and free water (while supplies last) and run rain or shine.

Hall County was honored for its literacy efforts by Georgia Reads on Monday, Apr.

27 at Lanier College & Career Academy in Gainesville— data shows more work is needed to boost reading skills.

Garrett Hibbs, a Hall County extension agent, said yellow jacket queens are emerging, prompting advice to farmers + homeowners on pest management.

The UGA Cooperative Extension office helps locals by providing insect identification for crops and landscapes.

Hall County Schools dedicated renovated learning commons at four schools yesterday after receiving a $100,000 donation from the Melvin Douglas and Victoria Kay Ivester Foundation+ each school received $25,000 for a new media center to boost literacy and foundational skills.

Hall County Schools is setting aside about $7 million for its fiscal year 2027 transportation budget as rising fuel costs drive a 9.1% increase from last year.

School officials say the adjustment (sparked by higher fuel prices) aims to cover growing expenditures.

On April 27, the GA Environmental Protection Division declared a statewide Level 1 Drought Response for public water systems that use surface water or groundwater, and systems began a public information campaign + maintained outdoor watering times as scheduled.

Top Sushi raised its health score to 90 after addressing issues from its initial inspection on April 16 (it originally scored 61) at 1925 Jesse Jewell Parkway SE.

The restaurant now meets inspection standards and continues serving guests.

On April 16, Johnson High’s Lady Knights clinched a tight soccer playoff win in a penalty kick shootout at City Park Stadium and advanced to the state quarterfinals for the first time in nearly two decades (Angelique Zelaya made key plays).

A late goal propelled Lakeview Academy’s girls to victory over Tallulah Falls — the win sets up their title match against George Walton Academy on Friday in Monroe.

The Cherokee Bluff girls soccer team won a dramatic game over Whitewater yesterday (earning a spot in the quarterfinals) and will face Region 8-3A rival Jefferson on Monday in Jefferson.

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.