The Gainesville Newcomers' Club recently was host to members of Flotilla 2-9 of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary to talk about the hazards of being on Lake Lanier. Flotilla members spoke to about 90 women about observing safety regulations for boating and swimming, especially now that the water level is about 15 feet below full pool. The Coast Guard Auxiliary offers free examinations of boats and personal watercrafts at various marinas throughout the summer months. For information about the Auxiliary, call 770-904-6340 or send an e-mail to auxiliaryclass@bellsouth.net. For information about the Gainesville Newcomers' Club call 770-889-7902.

The Hall County 4-H Club sponsored several events at the Spring Chicken Festival held on the downtown Gainesville square. Conner Clark won the chicken nugget eating contest. Rhett Marlow placed first in the LEGO design contest, Caroline Ashley placed second, Robbie Sheppard placed third and honorable mentions went to Ryan Smith and Harley Fields.