Gainesville residents held a candlelight vigil for Beirut on Aug. 7 on the steps of City Hall. There, they honored the more than 130 people who died in a massive explosion in Beirut on Aug. 4 and sought to bring attention to the political plight of Lebanese people. "They destroyed our country," one attendee said. "Those politicians have to go. They’ve destroyed our country for a long time.”
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City Commission Election Day
Nov. 17Election Day for Gainesville City Commission was on Tuesday, Nov. 16, 2021. Polls were open across Gainesville from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Two candidates held watch parties later in the evening. The special election was held to fill the seat vacated by Gail Johnson when she resigned. Matt Howland, Cynthia Chestnut, Scherwin Henry, Patrick Ingle and Gabe Kaimowitz faced off for the open seat, but none prevailed yet. Howland and Chestnut will face off in January during the runoff election.
Veterans Day Concert and Monument Dedication Ceremony
Nov. 12The Veterans Day Concert and Monument Dedication Ceremony at the Historic Evergreen Cemetery featured the Buchholz High School Chorus and Golden Regiment, as well as a new monument designed by James Dinh. Gainesville Mayor Lauren Poe and George E. Cressman Jr., historian and keynote speaker, gave a few words during the ceremony. The Milton Lewis Young Marines also held a flag ceremony.
40th Downtown Festival & Art Show
Nov. 8The 40th Downtown Festival & Art Show was shortened to one day due to rainy weather. Various artists showcased their work in downtown Gainesville this weekend, from paintings, sculptures and jewelry to dance, and more. There was also a children's activities area that allowed little artists to create their own masterpieces.
