Good morning, Gainesville.

Jackson EMC Foundation awarded $85,000 in grants at a recent meeting, including $40,000 for Hall County programs like the Rise Summer Learning Program for K-3 students in Gainesville; funds raised by over 226,000 members via Operation Round Up have boosted local community services since 2005.

Community members gathered for a silent vigil in downtown Gainesville on Saturday, June 6, to honor World War II veterans and mark the 82nd anniversary of D-Day (Battle of Normandy), while highlighting the need to protect democratic freedoms.

Boaters at Lake Lanier face high fuel prices this summer as many report cost increases of 34% for regular gas and 53% for diesel with some curtailing fueling plans after Memorial Day weekend—local marina owners warn the trend could squeeze summer business.

Alexandra Soto, a rising senior at UNG in Gainesville, finished second in the virtual state oratorical competition on generative AI’s impact on public education and later joined the national IOA event at the University of Florida—the first time a UNG student competed in person.

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.

Dot Art Workshop

1-3 p.m. — Hall County Library Downtown — $10 Supply fee — Unleash creativity in a fun dot art experience for adults 18 and up.

Storybook & Sensory Bin Experience

10 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Atlanta Botanical Garden, Gainesville — Free entry — Dive into storytelling and sensory exploration for little ones in a lush garden setting.

Flag Painting Workshop

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Hall County Library Downtown — Free entry — Celebrate America creatively at this Americana-style flag painting workshop with refreshments.

Dueling Pianos with The Andrews Brothers

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Hall at Bourbon Brothers — VIP packages available — Enjoy a lively night of dueling pianos featuring The Andrews Brothers.

62nd Annual Independence Day Celebration

— Time not specified — Laurel Park — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day with family-friendly festivities at Hall County's annual event.