Good morning, Gainesville.

The Salvation Army begins its annual Red Kettle Campaign across the Peach State today — with several sites in Hall County — and still needs volunteers to ring bells to help raise funds for families in need during the holiday season.

The search for 67-year-old Charles Hosch—a Gainesville native missing since Tuesday after hiking on the Byron Herbert Reece Trail near Blood Mountain—entered its third day Friday, and officials ask anyone near the Appalachian Trail and Mountain Crossing Store on the 11th to contact the union county sheriff’s office; call the county’s Emergency Operations Center at 706-439-6091 or dial 911 for any sightings.

Former Gov. Nathan Deal was honored by the Hall County School District on Friday as the RESA Pioneer in Education Award recipient for his long work in supporting Georgia schools—his efforts helped boost funding and programs that benefit local classrooms.

Former Gov. Nathan Deal was named the RESA Pioneer in Education Award recipient for 2025-2026 by Hall County School District.

He was honored for his long record of boosting public schools and ensuring more funds for education—especially as a local who grew up in the district.

Patricia McCormick—author of one of the most challenged books—spoke at a Hall County school in a Q&A on how book bans and restrictions affect access to important ideas.

Her discussion focused on the challenges censorship creates for students and the educational community.

Hall County Schools announced on Friday, Nov.

14 that former Gov. Nathan Deal was named the district’s 2025-2026 RESA Pioneer in Education Award recipient. The district honored Deal for his impact on education (recognizing his long service).

The Army Corps of Engineers warned that Lake Lanier may become hazardous due to a continued lack of rainfall, with more shoreline visible near Longwood Park in Gainesville on Nov.

14th—this press release was issued this week.

Northeast Georgia Medical Center Gainesville was ranked nationally for patient experience — a survey that noted high marks for quality care.

The nearly $11M renovation of the Hall County Health Department has been completed, funded by ARPA and SPLOST, with a ribbon cutting and open house scheduled for Thursday at 3:00.

Officials say the project included a new 8,000 square foot building leased by Northeast Georgia Physicians Group—improving health services for local residents.

Six area teams advanced to the second round of the GHSA playoffs on Friday night—Gainesville won 48-3 over Dunwoody for its first playoff win while Buford shut out Richmond Hill and other teams defeated their opponents.

Watercolor Workshop with Vicki Paulus

10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — Hall County Library North Hall Technology Center — $2.94 — Unleash your creativity at this engaging watercolor workshop.

The Carole King & James Taylor Story - Tribute Show

7:30-9:30 p.m. — The Hall at Bourbon Brothers — $ — Experience the musical journey of two legends through a critically acclaimed tribute show.

That Arena Rock Show

8:00-9:30 p.m. — The Hall at Bourbon Brothers — Cost varies — Experience high-energy classic rock anthems from the 70s and 80s performed live.

Turkey Trot 5K/10K/Half Marathon

7:45-11:45 a.m. — Riverside Track — Registration fee applies — A fun-filled Thanksgiving morning run for all fitness levels.

Christmas on Green Street 2025

3-7 p.m. — Gainesville Civic Center — Free entry — Celebrate the holidays with a festive parade featuring antique cars, floats, and live music.

Wheel of Fortune Live

7-10 p.m. — The Hall at Bourbon Brothers — Check event page for pricing — Experience America's Game® with Wheel of Fortune LIVE! in your hometown.

USPA Tested and Open Winter Classic 2

11 a.m. – 8 p.m. — The Beast Sports Center, LLC — No refunds — Experience thrilling powerlifting competition with categories for all skill levels.