🌱 Tree Mitigation Fund Expanded + Annual Memorial Day Ceremony

Hi there, Gainesville! I'm here in your inbox this morning to tell you everything you need to know about what's going on around town.

But first, your local weather:

• Tuesday: Times of clouds and sun. High: 73 Low: 59.
• Wednesday: Partly sunny. High: 78 Low: 55.

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Here are the top three stories today in Gainesville:

1. The Gainesville City Commission has modified the code governing its Tree Mitigation Fund, allowing the $7.8 million fund to be used for expanded purposes beyond tree planting. Previously, the fund could only be used for planting trees on city property or purchasing conservation land. The updated code now permits the purchase of trees and planting equipment, tree pruning, preservation of tree canopy through conservation land purchases, and professional services related to urban forest development. The city's tree canopy has significantly decreased over the years, and the fund aims to address this issue. (Main Street Daily)
2. Alachua County Veteran Services and the City of Gainesville are inviting the community to join them for the annual Memorial Day Ceremony at the Historic Evergreen Cemetery on May 29. The event will commemorate and pay tribute to veterans and military service members who sacrificed their lives in service to the nation. The ceremony will include various patriotic ceremonies, music, and speeches from local leaders, and lunch will be provided by sponsors. (City of Gainesville)
3. The City of Gainesville is offering grants to local organizations that want to hold community events but need funding assistance. The Community Partnership Grant Program is designed to assist non- and not-for-profit organizations with the costs associated with special events held within the Gainsville Community Reinvestment Area District. All events must be free and open to the public and the deadline to apply is Thursday, Jun. 1. (City of Gainsville)

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Today and tomorrow in Gainesville:

Tuesday, May 23

• Science Club At Cone Park Resource Center (4:00 PM)

Wednesday, May 24

• Homework Help At Cone Park Resource Center (3:00 PM)
• Free Improv Comedy Show At The Limelight (7:00 PM)

In partnership with T-Mobile:

Do you know a Gainesville dad whose texts make you smile? This Father’s Day, celebrate him with a shoutout on Patch. Just fill out this simple form and we’ll do the rest!

From my notebook:

• Gainesville for All (GNV4All) will hold a general body meeting featuring guest speaker Marsha Kiner, the executive director of the Children's Trust of Alachua County. The meeting will take place at Metcalfe Elementary School's cafeteria and provide an opportunity for supporters and the community to learn about the Children's Trust and its leadership. (Main Street Daily)
• We Heart has recently published a list highlighting the top neighborhoods to reside in Gainesville. Factors such as safety, affordability, proximity to amenities, quality of schools, and commute time are important criteria used to determine the best places to live in Gainesville. (We Heart)

That's it for today. I'll catch up with you bright and early soon with another update!

— Lauren Kubiak

About me: Lauren is an Editor for Lightning Media Partners. She graduated from Rowan University with a Bachelor’s in journalism. She was previously a full-time editor at an association management firm, editing peer-reviewed nursing journals, textbooks, and newsletters.