Good morning, Gainesville.

Leaders in government and education gathered at the State Capitol to celebrate Georgia Reads Day by recognizing ten community award winners and four READBowl champions, including a National Winner from Dougherty County.

The event showed how strong local partnerships boost literacy statewide.

Hall County Schools spends $3.4 million on fuel — nearly half its transportation budget — as propane-powered buses help offset volatile diesel costs, director Clay Hobbs said.

Drought conditions in northeast Georgia have worsened despite recent rain; extreme drought affects many counties & some areas are in exceptional drought.

The National Weather Service predicts half to three-quarters inch of rain Friday night into Saturday, though it will not be enough to ease the dry spell.

The House passed the Farm Bill Thursday that protects Georgia's billion-dollar poultry industry and blocks school lunches from buying Chinese poultry.

The measure renamed Athens' National Poultry Research Center in honor of Gainesville native Abit Massey.

Northeast Georgia Medical Center announced the hiring of Dereck DeLeon, MD — the new Designated Institutional Official for its Graduate Medical Education program.

He will oversee training for over 230 physician learners and ensure compliance with accreditation standards.

Hall County's DiscLula announced Tuesday that its flagship course reached No. 64 among the world's top 100 disc golf courses.

The venue, including a hole inside an old chicken house, launched a new website.

Cherokee Bluff beat No. 1 Troup in Game 1 of the high school baseball playoffs on April 25 at Flowery Branch (Bubba Coleman had a key triple that helped secure the win).

North Hall lost its playoff opener to Whitewater on Apr.

30 in Fayetteville (the Trojans now must win the next two games to avoid elimination).

North Hall girls tennis team beat Mary Persons on Friday, Apr.

30 in Gainesville to secure a spot in the state semifinals. They will face Oconee County in the Final Four.

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.