Good morning, Gainesville.

Last month, Gainesville native Matéo Penado (volunteering with the National Network on Cuba) delivered over $700,000 in aid to Cuba amid an energy blockade and urged U.S. officials to lift restrictions so locals can access essentials.

Gainesville will hold Memorial Day events this weekend, including a service at Rock Creek Veterans Park on Sunday from 2 to 3 p.m. featuring keynote Sloane Guy & a parade on Monday starting at 10 a.m. from First Baptist Church on Green Street with road closures in place.

Residents and business leaders are raising concerns over GDOT’s plan to reconstruct Green St (which would remove many historic trees) and alter its historic charm.

Locals have used bluebird artwork and orange ribbons and collected over 2,000 petition signatures to demand alternative infrastructure solutions.

Gville pastor Javier Chavez will lead prayers on Sunday, May 24 (as part of a 50-day nationwide initiative ahead of America’s 250th birthday).

He joins Franklin Graham’s call for prayer to help return the nation to its founding values.

The city council announced seven scholarship winners for the 2026 Chicken Festival, awarding $2,000 to EmmaGrace Wilkes, $1,500 to Kylianne Brown, and $1,000 each to five others.

The awards help high school seniors and college students in poultry science, funded by local sponsors+ administered by the North Georgia Community Foundation.

Hall County has assumed day-to-day management of 11 Lake Lanier recreation sites starting Memorial Day weekend to ensure better upkeep and public access after last year's staffing shortages + fees collected will be reinvested into the parks.

Gainesville City Manager Bryan Lackey updated residents on a new paid parking system downtown & the city's role in proposed plans for Green St as shared on 97.5 Glory FM.

GlowBand - Tribute to The Eagles

6-10:30 p.m. — The Hall at Bourbon Brothers — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of classic rock favorites performed live including iconic hits from The Eagles.

Diamond Art Workshop

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Hall County Library Blackshear Place — All materials provided — Create your own stunning diamond art masterpiece in a fun and relaxed setting.

The Ultimate Doors Tribute Concert

6:00 – 10:30 PM — The Hall at Bourbon Brothers — Cost not specified — Experience a time machine to The Doors' music with this faithful tribute band.

Squirrel Nut Zippers Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Hall at Bourbon Brothers — Ticketed event — Experience the swing and soul of the iconic Squirrel Nut Zippers as they revive their classic hits.

Food Truck Fridays at Lake Lanier Olympic Park

5-9 p.m. — Lake Lanier Olympic Park — Free entry — Enjoy a lively evening of food trucks, live music, and community vibes by the lake.