Good morning, Gainesville.

A Flowery Branch Army veteran will run the Chicago Marathon later this month to raise funds for autism research and support programs.

Lanier Boat Charter is expanding its Haunted Lake Lanier Experience with extra tour dates this October (focusing on the lake's history and local folklore).

Saint Michael Catholic Church is deconstructing its historic 1933 building on Spring Street to rebuild it as an adoration chapel at its current location off Enota Drive — Deacon Ken Lampert said after a Sept.

29 portrait session.

Lake Lanier fell half a foot last week due to drought - its level is now 1.5 feet below Sept.

1. The US Drought Monitor reported a 10% rise in moderate and 3% more severe drought conditions affecting nearly the entire state - 99.99% affected.

Hall County lifted its burn ban on Oct.

1, allowing residents to apply for permits for planned burns at designated county offices (check with county officials for details).

Northeast Georgia Health System now offers Vivistim Therapy to stroke survivors to improve arm and hand function; the FDA-approved treatment uses a small implanted device (placed in the upper left chest) to send mild electrical pulses during rehabilitation exercises, and most patients return home the same day.

Residents visited the HealthSmart Wellness Expo at the Gainesville Civic Center on Thursday, Oct.

1 for free health screenings and wellness info from over 40 exhibitors (Longstreet Clinic staff drew blood), with no appointment needed.

Local coffee shops are refreshing their fall menus with creative drinks beyond pumpkin spice.

Boarding Pass Coffee in downtown Gainesville debuted its Vermont Harvest Latte, a blend of maple spice and white mocha, on Tuesday, Sept. 29 + seven other venues offered unique seasonal flavors.