A publication ofSpring 2012

WELCOME

The resource for newcomers to North Georgia

Spring eventS cAlendAr

community reSourceS

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, February 26, 2012�

A publication ofWELCOMECommunity calendarsBanks County 18Dawson County 19Forsyth County 19Habersham County 19Hall County 16Jackson County 19Lumpkin County 19Rabin County 20Towns County 20Union County 21White County 21Region Map 22

Page 3If springtime gardening is your thing, local experts and orga-nizations can offer advice and support to keep your thumb green and your plants healthy.

Page 6Local contact information for your new community.

Page 8Whether you’re a lifetime runner or following a New Year’s resolu-tion to get in shape, here are tips on locales, groups and running events in the weeks ahead.

Page 10Northeast Georgia’s scenic trails are the perfect spot for bicycling enthusiasts, whether they be casual rider or mountain bike daredevils.

Page 12Northeast Georgia’s parks offer a wide variety of natural beauty, amenities and activities for anyone looking for a springtime getaway.

Page 15Wine Highway Weekend is a fun way to sample the fruit of North Georgia’s vineyards with a taste of culture on the side.

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By Brandee A. Thomasbthomas@gainesvilletimes.com

Springtime is prime time for taking in nature’s flora, but before you can enjoy flowers brought by April show-ers, you have some work to do.

If you want to make your garden colorful and healthy for the warm months to come, you need to take the right steps be-forehand.

“In general, summer and fall flowering bulbs should be planted soon after the threat of frost has come and gone. Typically in our area, that is around April 15,” said Michael Wheeler, coordinator for the Hall County University of Georgia Cooperative Exten-sion.

“As far as planting seeds for a vegetable garden or a flower garden, gardeners can plant those in trays towards the end of Feb-ruary and the first of March in order to have good sized transplants that can be directly planted into the garden.”

If you’re new to the area, before you begin planting you may want to consider testing a sample of soil. The test results will help you determine the soil’s pH level, which can help you make an educated decision when it comes to choosing plants and fertilizer.

“To have a soil sample run through our lab in Athens, the cost is $8 and it generally takes 10 days to get your results,” Wheeler said.

In order to get the most accurate reading, Wheeler recommends collecting 10-15 small samples from all over your garden and mix-ing them into one bucket.

From that mix, collect about a pint of soil and to take to the extension office for testing. The cooperative extension is located at 734 E. Crescent Drive, Suite 300 in Gainesville.

In addition to helping you test your soil, the cooperative extension is a good resource if you have other questions or issues.

“We are a unit of the University of Georgia College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences,” Wheeler said.

“We offer unbiased, research based in-formation on horticultural information and agricultural topics. Some of the things we can help gardeners with are pest and weed identification, lawn trouble shooting and plant selection.”

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, February 26, 2012

How does your garden grow?Advice from local organizations can help any green thumb produce colorful spring scenery

Above: Randy Rick, of Dahlonega, browses through a selection of Japanese Maple trees for sale during the 2011 Hall County Master gardeners Spring Garden Expo at the Chicopee Woods Agricultural Center. scoTT rogers | The Times

Please see gArden, 5»

Left: Patrons browse the 2011 Hall County Master Gardeners Spring Garden Expo at the Chicopee Woods Agricultural Center. scoTT rogers | The Times

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, February 26, 2012�

Local gardening resourcesHall County Master Gardeners, 770-535-8293;

www.hcmgs.comHall County UGA Cooperative Extension,

770-535-8293; 734 E. Crescent Drive, Suite 300, Gainesville

North Georgia Daylily Society, www.northgeorgiadaylilysociety.com

State Botanical Gardens of Georgia, 706-542-1244; 2450 S. Milledge Ave., Athens; www.botgarden.uga.edu

Upcoming activities and eventsFirst Saturday Hike, 10-11:30 a.m. March 3;

Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville; 770-535-1976; Learn about local, native plants and animals and explore Chicopee Woods with an experienced guide; Adults $5, ages 2-12 $3, children under 2 and Elachee members free

Introduction to Permaculture, 9:30 a.m.-noon March 3; Cedar Hill Enrichment Center, 5735 Dawsonville Highway, Gainesville; 770-887-0051; $25 per person

Backyard Conservation, 10 a.m.-noon March 31; Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville; 770-535-1976; Learn the rudiments of composting — a natural way to dispose of leaves and other yard materials while building rich soil for the garden

Pre-order Native Plant Sale, April 1 through April 15; Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville; 770-535-1976

Hall County Spring Plant Expo, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 6, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 7, Chicopee Woods Agricultural Center, 1855 Calvary Church Road, Gainesville; 770-535-8293; Plant vendors, garden art, seminars and children’s area; $2 admission for adults, children admitted for free

Bog Garden Workshop; 9:30 a.m.-noon April 21, Cedar Hill Enrichment Center, 5735 Dawsonville Highway, Gainesville; 770-887-0051; Through the hands-on building of a bog at Cedar Hill, learn how to turn a low lying, slow draining area into a bog garden; $25 in advance, $30 after April 13

Discover local floraWilshire Trails Park, 849 Wilshire Road NW,

GainesvilleGardens on Green, 711 Green St., GainesvilleElachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee

Drive, Gainesville; 770-535-1976; www.elachee.orgCedar Hill Enrichment Center, 5735 Dawsonville

Highway, Gainesville; 770-887-0051, www.discovercedarhill.org

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Greg Phillips carries a Japanese Maple around the Chicope Woods Agricultural Center at the 2011 Hall County Master Gardeners Spring Garden Expo.Scott RogeRS | The Times

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, February 26, 2012

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Another local resource for information would be the Hall County Master Gardeners, which is a group of volunteer gardeners who regularly conduct workshops and support community projects like the Gardens on Green at the Hall County Board of Education and the Wilshire Park gardens.

The group also co-hosts a spring and fall plant expo with the cooperative extension. The Hall County Spring Plant Expo will be held April 6-7 at the Chicopee Woods Agricul-tural Center, 1855 Calvary Church Road in Gainesville.

The master gardeners accept applications

for new members in the fall. After being accepted into the group’s intern training pro-gram, participants must complete 50 hours of classroom instruction and 50 community service hours before they are full members of the group. The classes begin in January and wrap up in March and cost $125 per person.

If you have a more casual interest in flow-ers and just want to observe them, there are several prime, viewing spots in the area.

“One of the I think of is Gardens on Green,” Wheeler said.

“Elachee Nature Center also has a net-work of walking trails with wildflowers and other forest plants in bloom in the spring.”

Cedar Hills Enrichment Center on Daw-sonville Highway also has several gardens and a native plant walking trail.

GardenContinued from 3

Brandon Crumley picks strawberries in the field last year at Jaemor Farms in Lula.Sara Guevara | The Times

Above: Freshly picked strawberries are piled up

in a basket last year at Jaemor Farms in Lula.

Sara Guevara | The Times

Right: Francisco Bravo picks strawberries in

the field in April 2011 at Jaemor Farms in Lula.

Sara Guevara | The Times

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, February 26, 2012�

Hall CountyGovernmentCounty offices: 770-535-8288, www.hallcounty.org.Chamber of Commerce: 770-532-6206, www.ghcc.com; Convention and Visitors’ Bureau, 770-536-5209,www.lakelaniercvb.com.Gainesville: City Hall, 770-535-6865, e-mail, pr@gainesville.org, www.gainesville.org; police, 770-534-5252; fire, 770-534-3612; municipal court, 770-531-2668.Braselton: Town Hall, 4982 Ga. 53, 706-654-3915, www.braselton.net.; library, 132 W. Broadway, Braselton, 706-654-1992.Clermont: P.O. Box 257, 770-983-7568, www.clermont.georgia.gov.Flowery Branch: City Hall, 5517 Main St., 770-967-6371, www.flowerybranchga.org.Gillsville: City Hall, 6288 Ga. 52, 30543, 770-869-9000Oakwood: City Hall, 4035 Walnut Circle, 770-534-2365, www.cityofoakwood.net.Lula: City Hall, 6055 Main St., P.O. Box 99, 770-869-3801, www.lula.georgia.gov.

Emergency servicesHall County Sheriff’s Office: 225 Green St., Gainesville, 770-531-6900.Hall County Fire Dept.: 731 E. Crescent Drive, Gainesville, 770-531-6838.

Community resourcesNortheast Georgia Medical Center: 743 Spring St. NE, Gainesville, 770-219-9000.Hall County Health Dept.: 1290 Athens St., Gainesville, 770-531-5600.Hall County Library System: 127 Main St. N.W., Gainesville, 770-532-3311; Blackshear Place branch, 770-287-3654; Clermont branch, 770-983-3196; East Hall branch, 770-531-2500.Gainesville City Schools: 508 Oak St. N.W., Gainesville; 770-536-5275, www.gcssk12.net.Hall County Schools: 711 Green St., Suite

100, Gainesville, 770-534-1080, www.hallco.org.Chattahoochee Christian School: 640 Main St., P.O. Box 254, Clermont, GA 30527, 770-983-9433, chattahoocheechristian.org/index.htmlHopewell Christian Academy: 5086 Poplar Springs Road, Gainesville, GA 30507, 770-297-0220, www.hopewellchristianacademyonline.orgJubilee Christian Academy: 1221 Harmony St., Gainesville, GA 30501, 770-531-7576, www.jubileestallions.com/index.htmlLakeview Academy: 796 Lakeview Drive, Gainesville, GA 30501, 770-532-4383, www.lakeviewacademy.comMaranatha Christian Academy: 5135 McEver Road, Oakwood, GA 30566, 770-536-6334, www.maranathaacademy.comRiverside Military Academy: 2001 Riverside Drive, Gainesville, GA 30501, 770-532-6251, www.cadet.comTrinity Day School: Chestnut Mountain Circle, Flowery Branch, GA 30542, 770-967-0529, 770-540-0012, www.trinitydayschool.comNorth Georgia Christian School: 1397 Thompson Bridge Road, Gainesville, GA 30501, 770-534-1081, www.gainesvillewcs.orgGainesville State College: Oakwood, 770-718-3639, www.gc.peachnet.edu.Brenau University: Gainesville, 770-534-6299, 800-252-5119, www.brenau.eduLanier Technical College: Oakwood, 770-531-6300, www.laniertech.edu

Banks CountyGovernmentBoard of Commissioners: 144 Yonah-Homer Road, Suit 1, Homer, 30547. 706-677-6200Chamber of Commerce: 706-677-2108, e-mail bankscountychamber@alltel.net, www.bankscountyga.org; Convention and Visitors Bureau, 706-677-5265Homer City Hall: 706-677-3510

Emergency servicesCounty Sheriff’s Office: 706-677-2248Clerk Of Court: 706-677-6243Fire Chief: 706-677-1812

Community resourcesBanks County Public Library: 226 Ga. 51 S., Homer, 706-677-3164Health Department: 706-677-2296Northridge Medical Center: 70 Medical Ave., Commerce: 706-335-1000Banks County School System: 102 Ga. 51 S., Homer, 30547, 706-677-2224, www.banks.k12.ga.us.

Dawson CountyGovernmentCounty: 86 Ga. 53 West, Suite 01, Dawsonville, Hockenhull Building; 706-344-3501, fax, 706-344-3504; www.dawsoncounty.org.Chamber of Commerce: 706-265-6278, e-mail newcomer@dawson.org, www.dawson.org.Dawsonville: 706-265-3256; www.dawsonville.com.Clerk, Superior Court: 706-344-3510

Emergency servicesDawson County Sheriff’s Dept.: Dawsonville, 706-344-3535, www.dawsoncountysheriff.orgAmbulance Service: 706-344-3711EMA: 706-265-7813County Fire Chief: 706-344-3666

Community resourcesHealth Department: 706-265-2930Dawson County Library: 342 Allen St., Dawsonville, 706-344-3690, dawson@chestateelibrary.orgDawson County School System: 706-265-3246, www.dawson.k12.ga.us

Forsyth CountyGovernmentBoard of Commissioners: 110 E. Main St., Suite 210, Cumming, 770-781-2101, www.forsythco.comAdministration Building: 110 E. Main St., Sharon Springs Branch Office, 1950 Sharon Road, Cumming, 770-781-2112Chamber of Commerce: 770-887-6461, www.cummingforsythchamber.orgCumming: 100 Main St., 770-781-2010; police, 770-781-2000

Emergency servicesCounty Sheriff’s Department: 202 Old Buford Road, Cumming, 770-781-2222; www.forsythsheriff.org; e-mail, twpaxton@co.forsyth.ga.usFire Department: 3480 Settingdown Road, Cumming, 770-781-2180

Community resourcesNorthside Hospital: 1200 Baptist Medical Center Drive, Cumming, 770-844-3200, www.northside.comLibraries: Cumming branch, 585 Dahlonega Road, 770-781-9840; Sharon Forks branch, 2820 Old Atlanta Road, Cumming, 770-781-9840Forsyth County School System: 1120 Dahlonega Highway, Cumming, 770-887-2461, www.forsyth.k12.ga.us

Habersham CountyGovernmentCounty Commission: 555 Monroe Street, Unit 20, Clarkesville; 706-754-6264, www.co.habersham.ga.us.Chamber of Commerce: 706-778-4654, www.habersham chamber.com.Cornelia: 181 Larkin St., 706-778-8585.Clarkesville: 210 East Water St., 706-754-4216.Alto: 162 Grant St., 706-778-8035.

Welcome to our communityInside this guide you will find plenty of resources on what to do, where to go and what to see. First, we have the basics for whatever county you live in:

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, February 26, 2012 �

Baldwin: 130 Airport Road, 706-778-6341.Demorest: 579 Georgia St., 706-778-4202.Mount Airy: 869 Dick’s Hill Parkway, 706-778-6990.Tallulah Falls: 255 Main St., 706-754-6040.

Emergency servicesCentral Dispatch: 706-778-3911.Emergency medical services: 706-754-6262.Fire department: 706-754-2822.Sheriff’s office: 1000 Detention Drive, Clarkesville, 30523, 706-754-6666.

Community resourcesHabersham County Medical Center: 541 Ga. 441 N., 706-754-2161, www.hcmcmed.org.Clarkesville Library: 178 E. Green St., Clarkesville, 706-754-4413.Cornelia Library: 301 N. Main St., Cornelia, 706-778-2635.Habersham County School System: P.O. Box 70, W. Stanford Mill Road, Clarkesville, 30523, 706-754-2118, www.habershamschools.com.Tallulah Falls School: Ga. 441, Tallulah Falls, 706-754-3171, www.tallulahfalls.orgPiedmont College: 165 Central Ave., P.O. Box 10, Demorest, 800-277-7020, 706-776-0103; www.piedmont.edu.North Georgia Technical College: Ga. 197 N, Clarkesville, 706-754-7700, www.ngtcollege.org.

Jackson CountyGovernmentBoard of Commissioners: County Administrative Building, 67 Athens St., Jefferson, 706-367-6312, www.jacksoncountygov.com.Courthouse: 706-387-6000.Chamber of Commerce: 706-387-0300, www. jacksoncountyga.com.Jefferson: City Hall, 147 Athens St., Jefferson, 30549, 706-367-5121, www.cityofjeffersonga.com; police, 706-367-5231, www.cityofjeffersonpolice.com; fire, 706-387-7400, dispatch 706-367-1234, www.jeffersonfd.com; library, 379 Old Pendergrass Road, 706-367-8012, www.prlib.org/jefferson.Arcade: City Hall, P.O. Box 417, Jefferson, GA 30549, 706-367-5500, cityofarcade@windstream.net; police, 706-367-1821; fire, 706-367-4488.Braselton: Town Hall, 4982 Ga. 53, P.O. Box 306, Braselton, 706-654-3915, www.braselton.net; police, 706-658-2852.Commerce: P.O. Box 348, 27 Sycamore St., Commerce, 706-335-3164, www.commercega.org; police, 706-335-3200; fire, 706-335-2190; library, 1344 South Broad St., 706-335-5946.

Hoschton: City Hall, 79 City Square, Hoschton, 706-654-3034, www.cityofhoschton.com.Maysville: Town Hall, P.O. Box 86, Maysville, 706-652-2274; police, 706-652-3494; fire, 706-652-2050; library, 9247 Gillsville Road, 706-652-2323.Nicholson: 17175 Lakeview Drive, Nicholson, GA, 706-757-3408, www.nicholson-ga.com; fire, 706-757-3912; library, 5466 U.S. 441 S., 706-757-3577.Pendergrass: City Hall, 41 Blackberry Lane, Pendergrass, GA 30567, 706-693-2494, www. cityofpendergrass.com; police, 706-693-2386; fire, 706-693-2701; library, 706-693-4450.Talmo: City Hall, P.O. Box 70, 45 AJ Irvin Road, Talmo, 706-693-2325, talmo-ga.com; library, 706-693-1905.

Emergency servicesJackson County Sheriff’s Office: 268 Curtis H. Spence Drive, Jefferson, 706-367-8718, www.jacksoncountysheriff.usVolunteer fire departments: Plainview, 706-693-4260; South Jackson, 706-548-0888; West Jackson, 706-654-2500, www.westjacksonfd.com.

Community resourcesJackson County Superior Court: 5000 Jackson Parkway, Jefferson, 706-387-6392; Clerk of Courts, 706-387-6255.Jackson County Health Department: 260 Lee St., Jefferson, 706-367-3643, publichealthathens.com; Commerce Health Clinic, 623 South Elm St., Commerce, 706-335-3895; Jefferson Health Clinic, 341 General Jackson Drive, Jefferson, 706-367-5204.Jackson County Board of Education: 1660 Winder Highway, Jefferson, 706-367-5151, www.jackson.k12.ga.us.Jefferson City Schools Board of Education: 575 Washington St., Jefferson, 706-367-2881, www.jeffcityschools.org.Commerce City School System: 270 Lakeview Drive, Commerce, 706-335-5500, www.commerce-city.k12.ga.us.

Lumpkin CountyGovernmentLumpkin County: 99 Courthouse Hill, Suite A, Dahlonega, 706-864-3742; e-mail, commissioner@lumpkincounty.govChamber of Commerce: 706-864-3711, www.dahlonega.org.Dahlonega: 465 Riley Road, Dahlonega, 706-864-6133; cityofdahlonega.com

Emergency servicesCounty Sheriff’s Office: 194 Courthouse Hill, Dahlonega, 706-864-6101Chestatee Regional Hospital: 227 Mountain Drive, Dahlonega, 706-864-6136; www.chestateeregional.com

Community resourcesLumpkin County Library: 342 Courthouse Hill, Dahlonega, 706-864-3668, lumpkin@chestateelibrary.orgLumpkin County Board of Education: 51 Mountain View Drive, Dahlonega, 706-864-3611; www.lumpkin.k12.ga.usHidden Lake Academy: 830 Hidden Lake Road, Dahlonega, 30533, 800-394-0640, 706-864-4730, www.hiddenlakeacademy.comNorth Georgia College & State University: 32 College Circle, Dahlonega, 706-864-1400; www.ngcsu.edu

Towns CountyGovernmentCounty government: 48 River St., Suite B, Hiawassee, 706-896-2276, townscommissioner@windstream.net, www.townscountyga.comChamber of Commerce: 706-896-4966, www. townscountytourism.comBuilding Inspector/Building Permits: 706-896-0938

Emergency servicesSheriff: 4070 Ga. 339, Young Harris, 706-896-4444Emergency response: 1400 Jack Dayton Circle, Hiawassee, 706-896-2228Ambulance: 706-896-6254Fire: 706-896-2090

Community resourcesBoard of Education: 67 Lakeview Circle, Suite C, Hiawassee, 706-896-2279, www.towns.k12.ga.usHealth Department �06-896-2265Mountain Regional Library: Young Harris,706-379-3732Hiawassee: 229 Chatuge Way, 706-896-2202Young Harris: P.O. Box 122, 706-379-3171Library: 99 South Berrong St., Hiawassee, 706-896-6169

Union CountyGovernmentCounty Commissioner: 65 Courthouse St., Blairsville, 706-439-6000, unioncounty@

uniongov.com, www.unioncountyga.govChamber of Commerce: 706-745-5789, www.blairsvillechamber.com

Emergency servicesSheriff: 378 Beasley St., Blairsville, 706-439-6066Fire & Rescue: 439-6095

Community resourcesUnion County School Board: 706-745-2322Library: 194 Hospital Circle, Blairsville, 706-745-7491

White CountyGovernmentCommissioners Office: 59 S. Main St., Cleveland, 30528, 706-865-2235Chamber of Commerce: 122 North Main St., Cleveland, 30528, 706-865-5356, 706-865-0758, www.whitecountychamber.org, www.whitecounty.com.Planning Commission: 59 S. Main St., Cleveland, 706-865-6496CitiesCleveland: 85 S. Main St., Cleveland, 706-865-2017Helen: Chattahoochee Street, Helen, 706-878-2722; Chamber of Commerce, 706-878-1619, helenchamber.com; Welcome Center, 800-858-8027, www.helenga.org.

Emergency servicesCounty Sheriff’s Office: 1210 Hulsey Road, Cleveland, 706-865-5177Cleveland Police: 85 S. Main St., Cleveland, 706-865-2111White County Fire Dept.: 706-865-3855Helen Fire Dept.: 706-878-3676Emergency Communications Office: 706-865-1224

Community resourcesWhite County Health Department: 1241 Helen Highway, Unit 210, Cleveland, 30528, 706-865-2191Ambulance Service: White County EMS, 1331 Helen Highway, Cleveland, 706-865-7475White County Library: 60 Bell St., Cleveland, 706-865-5572; Helen branch, 90 Petes Park Road, Helen, 30545, 706-878-2438White County School System: 113 North Brook St., Cleveland, 706-865-2315, www.white.k12.ga.us.Truett-McConnell College: 100 Alumni Drive, Cleveland, 30528, 706-865-2134, www.truett.edu.

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, February 26, 2012

Take to the hills for exerciseRunners, find the right locale, events to stay in stride

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By Ashley BatesFor The Times

The running scene in Northeast Geor-gia can be a little daunting with the foothills of the Appalachians creep-ing into most neighborhoods.

But with a few tips, anyone can put their running shoes on and head out for a jog or find the perfect race.

Wes Wessely, the president of Lanier Run-ning Club, says that it’s easy to get started running in the Gainesville area with local running clubs and groups.

“We don’t have much flat area unless you want to run on the track but Riverside Military Academy is a popular area because there is parking,” Wessely said. “You can go down Riverside Drive which is about a mile long and then down at Brenau (University) there aren’t too many hills. Even south of Gainesville most everything drops off down to the lake and that’s just the topography of the area.”

The Lanier Running Club also is the of-ficial Junior Olympic club for the Northeast Georgia area.

“We actually have people that coming over from Forsyth County and Dawson,” Wessely said. “Membership is over 100. We sent 42 to Junior Olympic regionals and 26 to nationals, which was in Myrtle Beach, S.C.”

The running club has groups that meet throughout the week and on the weekends to run and also has monthly club meetings that offer informational speakers about health and running related topics. Wessely added that Sunday mornings the largest group of Lanier Running Club members meet at Riv-erside Military Academy.

The group’s largest fundraiser of the year is coming in April during the Spring Chicken Festival in downtown Gainesville. The Spring Chicken 5K is set for 9 a.m. April 28 and winds through the downtown area. Reg-istration and packet pickup will be at Wild Wing Café.

“We do Junior Olympics and that’s how we fund it and Junior Olympics is mostly Hall County kids, but do have some from Forsyth

Riverside Drive is a popular spot for joggers in Gainesville with its level terrain and easy access for advanced runners to Green Street sidewalks for longer runs into the downtown area.Scott RogeRS | The Times

Please see HillS, 9»

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, February 26, 2012 �

and White County because we are the only club in the area,” said Art DaCosta, vice president of the Lanier Running Club and who also has been running regularly for 16 years. “We do Junior Olympics track and Junior Olympic cross country for pretty young on to 18.”

Another large run is the Hall County Chal-lenged Child 20th annual 5K on March 4 at Riv-erside Military Academy. In honor of the event’s 20th year, everyone registering on a team will pay $20 per person; each team must be at least 20 members.

Wessely said that runners new to the area would find www.active.com or www.georgiarunner.com great resources to find local races.

Also, looking to local churches for recreation is becoming popular. Many churches have active running groups, open to the community. First Bap-tist Church on Green Street has a group that runs on Tuesday evenings down Riverside Drive.

DaCosta said it doesn’t matter where you choose to run in the area, any run will be enjoy-able.

“I think our weather is a bit more mild than far-ther north and our summers are hot but the spring is great running and the hills are great,” DaCosta said. “We have a great running community here.”

HillsContinued from 8

Running events14th Annual Run Dahlonega 5K: March 3, Dahlonega. Drill Field

on North Georgia College & State University Campus, 82 College Circle, Dahlonega. All proceeds benefit the Rainbow Children’s Home and Prevent Child Abuse America. Fee: $25. www.active.com.

Challenged Child & Friends 5K: 2 p.m. March 4. 20th Anniversary race, 5K and a 1-mile fun run. Registration 1 p.m., mile run 2 p.m., 5K 2:30 p.m. 770-535-8372, www.challengedchild.org.

Precious Feet 5K: 8 a.m. March 10, Flowery Branch. Old Train Depot, 5302 Railroad Ave., Flowery Branch. Proceeds go to help unborn babies and crisis pregnancies. Registration 7 a.m. Prices vary depending on race option. www.active.com.

Fallen Heroes of Georgia: March 17, Lake Lanier Islands Resort, Buford. 10K, 5K and 1K. Fees: $15-$30 before March 6, $18-$35 March 7-13. Peachtree Road Race qualifier. Register on www.active.com or mail-in race form before March 7. Run for the Fallen, Inc. P.O. Box 1955, Flowery Branch, Ga. 30542. Make check payable to: Run for the Fallen, Inc.

CASA Superhero 5K Run/Walk: 8 a.m. March 26, Big Creek Greenway, Cumming. 5K run/walk, 1K fun run to benefit CASA of Forsyth County. Come dressed as your favorite superhero. Fees: 5K, $25 until March 25, $30 on race day; family of three or more $20 before March 25, $25 on race day; 1K, $10. www.active.com.

Second Annual Alpha Gamma Delta Dash: 8 a.m. March 24, American Legion Paul E. Bolding Post No. 7, Gainesville. 5K to assist Mu Chapter of Alpha Gamma Delta at Brenau University, raising funds for scholarships, research and education. Fee: $20, includes T-shirt. Contact Angela Hall, ahall@tiger.brenau.edu.

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Elachee Trillium Trek Trail Run: 9 a.m. March 24, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. Fees: $25 for 5K, $30 for 10k, $40 for half marathon, $5 kids fun run. www.elachee.org/trilliumtrek, www.elachee.org or www.active.com.

No Excuse for Child Abuse Run/Walk: April 14, First Baptist Church, 751 Green St. NW, Gainesville. Benefits Children’s Center for Hope & Healing and Family T.I.E.S. of Gainesville. Fee: $20 before April 10. www.hopeandhealingga.org.

Chattahoochee Baptist Association 5K Run/Walk: 10:30 a.m. April 21, West Hall High School, 5500 McEver Road, Oakwood. Benefits Camp Hope. Fee: $20 before April 18, $25 afterward. www.chattahoocheebaptistassociation.org.

Dirty Spokes Trail Run: 8:30 a.m. April 21, Gainesville State College, 3820 Mundy Mill Road, Oakwood. Fees: 5.3-mile course $25, 2.5-mile course $20, sign up by April 19; $40 on race day. www.active.com, www.dirtyspokes.com.

Spring Chicken Festival 5K: 9 a.m. April 28, Gainesville. Registration 7:30 a.m. in the Wild Wing Cafe parking lot, 311 Jesse Jewell Parkway, Gainesville. Awards to top runners in various divisions. Fees: $20 ($15 no shirt option) by April 15, $25 afterward ($20 no shirt option). Contact Mike Lunsford, 770-533-1128, mikeat4833ssd@att.net.

Muddy Duck Dash 3.5 Challenge Race: 8 a.m. April 28, Gainesville State College, 3820 Mundy Mill Road, Oakwood. 3.5-mile obstacle and trail challenge run. Fees: $35 by March 16, $40 until April 10, $45 until April 27, $50 on race day. muddyduckdash.com or www.active.com.

5K 4 The 3-Day: 8 a.m. May 4, American Legion, 2343 Riverside Drive, Gainesville. Fee: $25 by May 4. 5k4the3day.blogspot.com or www.active.com.

For more events, check out our spring events calendar beginning on page 18

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The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, February 26, 201210

Get your wheels rolling

Biking groups in Northeast Georgia can help you answer the call of the trails

By Christopher ElliottFor The Times

With the weather getting warmer and winter seeming to pass us by without a second glance, it seems only natural to see the first signs of bike riders getting out a little

earlier this year.For the serious rider, this is something

that has been anticipated since the weather turned colder and the call of the trail went into hibernation for a short time. For the novice, it is a great opportunity to make good on the promise made a little over a month ago to lose those extra pounds that seemed to have sneaked up out of nowhere.

Regardless of your experience there is a place to ride and a group of people just wait-ing to embrace you as one of their own.

Chicken City Cyclists “is Gainesville’s old-est bicycle club,” said founder Lloyd Unnold. “You can take that as also meaning that most of our members are ‘mature.’ We are a small club and we don’t ride our bikes fast, but we still enjoy riding.”

Unnold said the club lists its rides, which range from 30 to 60 miles at an average of about 14 mph, in its monthly “Poultry Pon-derings” newsletter. Most include a lunch stop. The newsletter includes upcoming rides held by other organizations and local bike shops.

Contact the Chicken City Cyclists at UnnoldL@charter.net for more information and to sign up for the monthly newsletter.

ISI Cycling is a group of cyclists that enjoy road and mountain biking throughout North-east Georgia. The group’s website, www.imba.com, says the club welcomes riders at all skill levels and newcomers.

SORBA (Southern Off-Road Bicycle As-sociation) is a member-based nonprofit orga-nization devoted to promoting land access, trail preservation and trail development to enhance mountain bike touring and racing.

SORBA publishes the “Trail News” four times a year to keep members informed of issues and developments in mountain biking. The group holds events to raise awareness of land access and trail maintenance and according to its website, “to ride, to race and to just have fun.” Find more information on the Gainesville chapter at gainesvillesorba.org/wordpress.

So now that you have found a group, what trails are the best and most enjoyable in the city? Here are some suggested biking sites in the area:

Chicopee Woods, located just north of Oak-wood behind the old Elachee Village, has become one of the premier mountain biking destinations in the Southeast. With varied terrain and lots of single track, Chicopee has become a favorite for beginners wanting to take the next step as well as cross-country racers wanting to get training miles in.

What started as approximately 12-13 miles of intermediate to advanced trail has recently grown to more than 21 miles thanks to a grant.

“The College Trail,” also in Oakwood on the campus of Gainesville State College, is approximately 3.5 miles of relatively begin-ner trails. These trails are a favorite for new riders and cross-country trainers. While limited in elevation change, the twisty trail offers plenty of challenge with sharp, tree-edged turns and plenty of dips and roots. It

Please see WhEEls, 11»

Tom REEd | The Times

Chicken City Cyclists members Ray Lectre, left, and Erik Pardue ride along an East Hall road last summer.

11The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, February 26, 2012

has been called the perfect trail to introduce someone to mountain biking.

“For beginners I would recommend the Gainesville College trails. Intermediate and advanced level riders will prefer Chicopee Woods” said Craig Bailey, local rider and organizer of the Sunday Kroger Ride.

Regardless of your preference, trail or just a good bike ride around the neighborhood there are important things to keep in mind when you begin cycling.

The International Mountain Bicycling

Association advises riders, per its website www.imba.com, to “Ride open trails, leave no trace, control your bicycle, yield appro-priately, never scare animals, plan ahead”

“I would advise all cyclists to purchase the best equipment they can afford,” Unnold said. “Buy a bike that fits them properly, and fits the type of riding they will be doing.”

He also offers this advice to novice cy-clists: “Take lessons on how to properly and safely use your bike and all its equipment and accessories, and ride with a group of like-minded cyclists.”

Above all else, have fun. Bicycling is a great way to stay in shape, enjoy the environ-ment and meet new and interesting people.

WheelsContinued from 10

Chicken City Cyclist members Lloyd Unnold, front, Tim Evers, Ray Lectre and Erik Pardue ride along an East Hall country road last summer. Tom Reed | The Times

12 The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, February 26, 2012

Park yourself in nature’s bounty

Northeast Georgia offers great sites for hiking amid spring scenery — just check your phone

By Tasha BiggersFor The Times

As the trees begin to bud and flowers pop up to color the North Georgia landscape, you might want to ... pull out your smartphone and download an app.

The new Georgia DNR Pocket Ranger Mobile Tour Guide offers easy access to

Georgia’s State Parks and Historic Sites. You can download it free in the iTunes Store, on Android Market and at www.stateparkapps.com.

“With the growth of people using smart phones and the changes in the ways we reach our visitors, it just made sense to do it,” said Kim Hatcher, public affairs coordinator for the park system. “It’s a great opportunity to partner with (app creator) Parks by Na-

ture because it’s a win-win. It’s free for us, free for the state and free for our visitors.”

Hatcher said the app is useful for finding a park when you’re traveling, and looking up activities and park amenities.

“For people who might think parks mean just camping and hiking or picnicking, I think they’ll be surprised to find that we have so much more to offer,” she said, pointing out that many Georgia parks feature hotels, cabins and golf courses.

One feature that will make the Pocket

Ranger handy for park visitors is the GPS feature, Hatcher said.

“One of the things that our park rangers were excited about is, when you’re using it hiking, you can use GPS location to mark where you are, to keep track of where you’ve been,” she said. “It could help somebody if they got off course. If they left a trail, it could help them get back, or it could help search teams find them.”

Tom Reed | The Times

Bill and Gail Barrett and thier dogs May, left, and Brodie walk one of the trails around the lake at Unicoi State Park last summer.

saRa guevaRa | The Times

Unicoi State Park includes 12 miles of hiking trails, eight miles or mountain bike trails and access to Anna Ruby Falls among it’s 1,050 acres.

Please see paRK, 13»

13The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, February 26, 2012

You can use the Pocket Ranger to navi-gate the trails of three of our region’s loveli-est parks: Unicoi State Park, Amicalola Falls State Park and Tallulah Gorge State Park.

Here’s what you’ll find.

Unicoi State ParkWith so many recreational options in

Unicoi’s 1,050 acres, it’s difficult to pick one that defines the park, which is located near Alpine Helen.

“There are so many choices,” said Jackye Cooper, administrative operations coordina-tor for Unicoi. “Our hiking trails are very popular, and lake fishing and trout fishing.”

Fishermen are drawn to the park’s trout streams and Unicoi Lake, which is stocked with bass and bream, while families can par-ticipate in programs geared to young chil-dren like “Easter Fun,” an Easter-themed day set for April 7 that will include opportu-nities to create an Easter basket, hunt eggs and meet the Easter Bunny.

Unicoi also includes 12 miles of hiking trails, eight miles of mountain bike trails and access to Anna Ruby Falls, a waterfall that is on National Forest property, but surrounded by the park.

Unicoi Lodge and Conference Center is in

the center of it all, with a full service buffet restaurant and guestrooms that are sched-uled for renovation in winter 2013.

“During the summer and fall, we have a visiting artist every weekend, and on Satur-day nights, we have a free concert series that can be anything from bluegrass to storytell-ers to gospel groups,” Cooper said.

Scott Hudgins, park manager at Unicoi, said one new event is drawing more guests to the park.

Georgia Mountain Birdfest, which will take place May 4-6, began last year with 70 attendees.

“We bring in guest speakers, and we pro-vide birding trips around the Northeast,” Hudgins said.

“We provide transportation, meals for the birders, and some are half-day trips, some are all day trips. We have classes here at the lodge going on as well,” he said, adding that Birdfest is the only event of its kind in North Georgia.

Amicalola Falls State ParkPerched atop a mountain in Dawson

County, the 729-foot-high Amicalola Falls is the tallest waterfall in the Southeast.

Hikers have many choices when it comes to accessing the dramatic cascade.

“You can hike from the bottom of the wa-terfall all the way to the top,” said Hatcher.

“You can drive half way, and there’s kind of a rubberized flat trail that’s wheel chair accessible, and that leads to a boardwalk across the waterfall that’s the best view.”

More adventurous outdoorsmen can tackle the climb from the base of the falls, walking up trails and hundreds of stair steps.

While the falls are the main attraction at the park, a close second might be the 8.5-mile trail that leads to Springer Mountain, the end point of the Appalachian Trail.

AT hikers and families alike can find a cozy, simple night’s stay at the Len Foote Hike Inn, an environmentally sustainable back-country lodge that offers hot showers, electricity and home-cooked meals. The Hike Inn, which can only be accessed by foot, is a five-mile hike from the top of the falls.

More luxurious accommodations can be found at the Amicalola Falls Lodge & Con-ference Center, with 56 guestrooms and an upscale buffet at the in-house Maple Restau-rant. The lodge offers an expansive view of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Tallulah Gorge State ParkTallulah Gorge, two miles long and almost

1,000 feet deep, is the obvious draw of Tallu-lah Gorge State Park.

ParkContinued from 12

TASHA BIGGERS | For The Times

Hikers of various skill levels can choose from a .03 mile path, which is wheelchair accessible, and more strenuous hikes to the base or the top of Amicalola Falls.

TOM REED | The Times

Visitors to Amicalola Falls State Park in Dawson County pause along a series of stairs that connect the trails that run along the falls and stream.

Please see PARk, 14»

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Located in the mountain town of Tallulah Falls, the gorge offers visitors a sense of adventure, with an 80-foot-high suspension bridge that provides views of the Tallulah River and Tallulah Falls.

Karl Wallenda crossed the gorge in 1970 in a much more adventurous fashion —­ on a tightrope.

“If you go to Tallulah, take the time to go see the film that’s in the visitor’s center,” Hatcher said.

“It’s got footage of Karl Wallenda when he did the tightrope crossing at the gorge, and

one of his costumes is in the visitor’s center. There’s (also) footage of the 1800s when that was kind of a resort town.”

Rim trails can give visitors striking views of the gorge, but if you want to get a closer look, lace up your boots and apply for a permit to hike to the gorge floor. A limit of a hundred free permits are issued per day, on days when water releases are not scheduled.

Full Moon Hikes are a special way to see the park after sundown. Hikes are scheduled during full moons, of course, between March and November.

During Full Moon Hikes, hikers will follow the North Rim Trail, descend the Hurricane Falls Trail staircase and walk the suspension bridge over the falls.

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, February 26, 201214

ParkContinued from 13

Visitors to Tallulah Gorge State

Park cross over the gorge on a

suspension bridge that connects

trails on both sides of the gorge.

tOM rEED | The TimestOM rEED | The Times

Visitors to Tallulah Gorge State Park look out over the vistas along one of the trails that follow the rim of the gorge.

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, February 26, 2012 15

Enjoy a vintage journey on Wine Highway Weekend

BY MEGHAN SCHULERmschuler@gainesvilletimes.com

Whether you’re new to the Gainesville area or simply looking for a change of pace, the community is full of or-

ganizations and clubs to inspire and aid.From the Hall County Optimist Club to

the Trail Dames, the city offers a variety of ways to get involved.

The Hall County Optimist Club was founded and chartered in 1989. The branch is part of Optimist International, a group founded with the goal of adding the youth in communities around the country. The chapter organizes and sponsors an essay contest and an oratorical contest each year where students are eligible to win scholar-ship funds.

“Our motto is ‘Friend of Youth,’” said club member Rudy Corn.

Locally, the Hall County Optimist Club aids the special needs children of Sugar Hill Elementary.

“We hope to begin a reading program at Sugar Hill Elementary in the next month,” Corn said. “We also support the Childhood Cancer Campaign, whose goal is to find a

cure for the disease.”In addition to helping children in the

community, the Optimist Club also holds the annual Boyd Corn Memorial Golf Tour-nament. The money raised at the tourna-ment benefits organizations such as Chal-lenged Child and Friends and Eagle Ranch.

The Hall County Optimist Club meets the first and third Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at Ryan’s restaurant.

Gainesville doesn’t just offer philan-thropic ways to get involved. The local chapter of the Trail Dames is always eager to welcome new blood on their hiking ad-ventures.

Georgia chapter leader Anna Huth-maker founded the Trail Dames in 2007. Though not based in Gainesville, the Dames often holds hikes in the Gainesville area. Events are posted through MeetUp.com, a website devoted to helping people get out and get involved.

From girl’s nights to Toastmasters to zombie survivalist, MeetUp.com is one of the best ways to meet new people where you are. The website also allows users to set up and advertise their own local events. A new adventure is just a click away.

Wine lovers, mark your calendars: The annual tasting festival at North Georgia’s vineyards arrives just in time for spring.

The Winegrowers Association of Georgia’s 7th annual Wine Highway Weekend is set for March 23-25.

Hours are 2-5 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and 12:30-5 p.m. Sunday.

Participating wineries include Blackstock Vineyards, Cartecay Vineyards, Cavender Creek Vineyards, Crane Creek Vineyards, Frogtown Cellars, Habersham Winery, Sau-tee Nacoochee Vineyards, Tiger Mountain Vineyards, Wolf Mountain Vineyards and Yonah Mountain Vineyards.

Links to each with directions and more in-formation on the event can be found at www.georgiawine.com.

Visitors can purchase a passport for $25 at any winery where they begin the journey. It allows tastings at all 10 wineries and a souve-nir glass.

Each winery will offer its own unique style of open house. Several will be releasing new vintages, as well as offerings of food samples and live entertainment.

Some resorts will offer special deals for lodging over the weekend as well.

From staff reports

Clubs offer residents a way to get involved

The Wine Highway Weekend gives lovers of Georgia vintage wines a chance to sample bottles

from numerous area wineries along with food, music and other entertainment.

Times file photos

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, February 26, 201216

Hall CountyOngoing“Celebrating Art Students: The Presidential Art Awards Exhibit,” through March 14, Roy C. Moore Art Gallery, Continuing Education/Performing Arts Center, Gainesville State College, Oakwood. Free. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, 10 a.m.- 7 p.m. Thursday. 678-717-3438, 678-717-3707, www.gsc.edu.

MarchMarch 1: Great Decisions Lecture Series, Dr. Tamara Spike of North Georgia College & State University discusses Mexico. 6:30-8:30 p.m., Gainesville Civic Center. Free. www.northgeorgia.edu/greatdecisions.March 1-3: Gainesville State College’s Annual Big Band Show, 7:30 p.m., Ed Cabell Theatre, Gainesville State College, Oakwood. Tickets: $14.25 adults, $8.25 GTA subscribers , $10.25 children, seniors, groups, non-GSC Students, free for GSC faculty, staff, students (ID required). 678-717-3624, 678-717-3930, www.gsc.edu.March 1-31: “Quilts, Coverlets, and the Craftspeople of Northeast Georgia” exhibit, Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., Gainesville. 770-297-5900, www.negahc.org.March 1-31: “Under the Dome — Celebrating 100 Years of Girl Scouting in Northeast Georgia.” Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., Gainesville. 770-297-5900, www.negahc.org.March 3: Oral History workshop. 9 a.m. to noon. Free. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., Gainesville. 770-297-5900, www.negahc.org.March 3: 34th annual Gala Fine Art Auction, Gainesville, Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St., Gainesville. Fundraising event to benefit art programs in the community. www.quinlartscenter.org.March 3: Elachee’s Trail Crew Work Day, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. Bring water, lunch, gloves and rain gear. Tools, training, and afternoon refreshments included. Free; under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Call to pre-register. 770-535-1976, www.elachee.org.March 3: First Saturday Hike at Elachee, “Signs of Spring,” 10-11:30 a.m., Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. Naturalist-guided hike in Chicopee Woods Nature Preserve. Cost: $5 adults, $3 ages 2-12, under 2 and Elachee members free. 770-535-1976, www.elachee.org.March 5-9: Lion Craft Week, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St., Suite 11, Gainesville. Fee: $1 per craft, members free. 770-536-1900, www.inkfun.org.March 6: Gallery reception, 6 p.m., Inspirations: Works by Brenau Art & Design Faculty; and

Explorations with Memories and Media, Claudia Wilburn, Brenau University Presidents Gallery and Castelli Gallery. Free. 770-534-6263.March 6: Home School Day, Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St., Suite 11, Gainesville, 770-536-1900, www.inkfun.org. March 6-8: “Gypsy,” Gainesville, Based on memoirs of Gypsy Rose Lee. Gainesville High School Theater, Gainesville High School, 830 Century Place, Gainesville. Tickets: $5. ghstheatre@bellsouth.net.March 7: Nights Out for Nature, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. Fundraising dinner catered by a different restaurant each month. 770-535-1976, www.elachee.org.March 9-18: “You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown,” Flowery Branch. 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays. $15 for adults, $12 for seniors 55 and older, and $10 for students. Fifth Row Center studio, 5509 Main St., Flowery Branch. 678-357-7359, info@fifthrowcenter.com.March 11: Family Day: Quilts, Coverlets, and Fiber Arts of Northeast Georgia. 1-4 p.m. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., Gainesville. Hands-on activities and interactive exhibits. Free. 770-297-5900, www.negahc.org.March 12-14: Auditions for “Steel Magnolias.” 7:30 p.m., 5509 Main St., Flowery Branch. No experience necessary. Fifth Row Center studio, 5509 Main St., Flowery Branch. Bring photo and resume. Ages 19-70. 678-357-7359, info@FifthRowCenter.com.March 12: Gospel Choir, 7:30 p.m., Brenau University’s Pearce Auditorium. Free. 770-538-4764, www.brenau.edu/music.March 12-16: St. Patrick’s Day Craft Week, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St., Suite 11, Gainesville. Fee: $1 per craft, members are free. 770-536-1900, www.inkfun.org.March 13: 100 years of Girl Scouting forum. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., Gainesville. 770-297-5900, www.negahc.org. March 15: Livingston Taylor, 8 p.m., Brenau University’s Pearce Auditorium. The Arts Council concert series. Tickets: $30 adults, $28 seniors, $27 students. 770-534-2787, gladys@theartscouncil.net, www.theartscouncil.net.March 17: 2012 Lula Bridge Race, Gainesville. 10 a.m. Lake Lanier Olympic Venue. Paddlers choose 5K, 10K or 20K distance. Gates open 8:30 a.m. 770-287-7888, www.lckc.org.March 17: Gainesville State College Spring Open House, 9 a.m., Oakwood campus. www.gsc.edu.March 18: Georgia Super Six Series Disc Golf Tournament, 8 a.m., North Georgia Canopy Tours, 5290 Harris Road, Lula. Registration required. Fee $30-$60 based on level of play. keith10444@aol.com. March 19: Vocal Chamber Ensemble, 7:30 p.m., John S. Burd Center for the Performing Arts. Free. 770-538-4764, www.brenau.edu/music.March 19-23: Spring Is Here Craft Week, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999

Chestnut St., Suite 11, Gainesville. Fee: $1 per craft, members are free. 770-536-1900, www.inkfun.org.March 22: Artist Talk: Cellblock Visions, Curator Phyllis Kornfeld, 6 p.m., Brenau University’s Sellars Gallery. Free. 770-534-6263. March 22: Elachee’s New Winter Lecture Series, 7-9 p.m., Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. Experts share their knowledge in natural history, environmental policy. Features Jennifer Ceska from the University of Georgia’s State Botanical Garden on the topic, “Endangered Plants of Georgia.” Admission: $5 nonmembers, Elachee members free. Call to reserve seating. 770-535-1976, www.elachee.org.March 23-25: Gainesville Ballet Co., “Alice in Wonderland,” Brenau University’s Pearce Auditorium. Tickets: $24 adults, $20 seniors, $16 students and children, Brenau faculty, staff and students 1 ticket for $5 with valid ID. 770-532-4241, www.gainesvilleballet.org.March 23: “A Gift For The Village” film by Tom Landon. 7:30 p.m. Arts Council’s Smithgall Arts Center. Presented by The Arts Council and Gainesville State College as a part of The Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers series. Director’s Q&A session with filmmaker following the screening. $7 adults, $5 seniors/students. 770-534-2787, www.theartscouncil.net.March 24: Wycliffe Gordon Trio. 8 p.m. Part of the Evenings Of Intimate Jazz presented by the Arts Council at the Smithgall Arts Center. $30. 770-534-2787, www.theartscouncil.netMarch 24: Elachee’s Trillium Trek 5K, 10K, half-marathon and Kids’ Fun Run, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. Course leads through Chicopee Woods. Registration includes T-shirt, postrace

refreshments, raffle ticket. 770-535-1976, www.elachee.org/trilliumtrek.March 25: Health Expo at INK, 1-4 p.m., Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St., Suite 11, Gainesville. Fee: $2. 770-536-1900, www.inkfun.org. March 26-30: Doctor Craft Week, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St., Suite 11, Gainesville. Fee: $1 per craft, members free. 770-536-1900, www.inkfun.org. March 26: Il Portale Musicale, 7:30 p.m., Brenau University’s Pearce Auditorium. Mu Phi Epsilon music society celebrates its 100th anniversary. Free. 770-538-4764, www.brenau.edu/music.March 26: Lanier Canoe Kayak Club Spring BBI Junior Olympic Program, Gainesville. Six-week introductory program to flatwater canoe/kayak, kids ages 10-15. Parent meeting and registration 7 p.m. March 19; practices begin week of March 26. Lake Lanier Olympic venue boathouse. Gates open 8:30 a.m. 770-287-7888, www.lckc.org.March 27: Free stage tour of Gainesville Theatre Alliance’s “The Importance of Being Earnest” by Oscar Wilde. 6 p.m. Gainesville State College’s Ed Cabell Theatre, 3850 Mundy Mill Road, Oakwood. $16-18 for adults, $14-16 for seniors and $10-12 for students. 678-717-3624, www.gainesvilletheatrealliance.org.March 28-April 5: Graduating Art Students Exhibit, Gainesville State College, Roy C. Moore Art Gallery, Continuing Education/Performing Arts Center. Oakwood. Reception, 5:30 p.m. April 25. Hours: 10 a.m.to 4 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Thursday. Free. 678-717-3438, 678-717-3707, www.gsc.edu.March 31: “L’occasione fa il ladro,” 6 p.m., one-act comic opera by Gioachino Rossini, Brenau University. Performed by students of Department of Music. Free. 770-538-4764, www.brenau.edu/music.

Spring events

SCOTT ROGERS | The Times

Chief White Path’s cabin is nestled on the grounds behind the Northeast Georgia History Center in Gainesville.

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, February 26, 2012 17

March 31: Elachee’s Backyard Conservation Workshop, 10 a.m.-noon, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. Learn about composting and rain barrels. Free to local residents. Call to pre-register. 770-535-1976, www.elachee.org.March 31: Girl Scout Day. Hands-on activities and interactive exhibits. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., Gainesville. Free. 770-297-5900, www.negahc.org.March 31: Stars Over Elachee, 7:30-9:30 p.m., Chicopee Lake, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. Learn about astronomy. Suggested for adults and children ages 8 and up. Reservations required. Fee: $10 adults, $5 ages 2-12. 770-535-1976, www.elachee.org.

AprilApril 2-6: Elachee’s Spring Break Camp, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. Day camp for elementary-aged children features nature/science topics with learning activities, crafts, songs, woodland and creek hikes. 770-535-1976, www.elachee.org.April 2-6: Easter Craft Week, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St., Suite 11, Gainesville. Fee: $1 per craft, members free. 770-536-1900, www.inkfun.org.April 3: Home School Day, Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St., Suite 11, Gainesville, 770-536-1900, www.inkfun.org. April 4-14: Elachee’s Georgia Master Naturalist Program, 1-5:30 p.m., weekly sessions

Thursdays through June 14th, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. Fee: $160; 18 and older. 770-535-1976, elachee@elachee.org, www.elachee.org.April 5: Georgia Poetry Circuit Reading, Dave Smith, 1:15 p.m., John S. Burd Center for the Performing Arts, Banks Recital Hall, Brenau University. Free, limited seating. 770-534-6179.April 7: First Saturday Hike at Elachee, “Spring Wildflowers,” 10-11:30 a.m., Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. Naturalist-guided hike in Chicopee Woods Nature Preserve. Fee includes museum admission: $5 adults, $3 ages 2-12, under 2 and Elachee members free. 770-535-1976, www.elachee.org.April 7: Elachee’s Trail Crew Work Day, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. Bring water, lunch, gloves and rain gear. Tools, training and afternoon refreshments provided. Free. Under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. 770-535-1976, www.elachee.org.April 9-13: Encourage a Young Writer Craft Week, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St., Suite 11, Gainesville, Fee: $1 per craft, members free. 770-536-1900, www.inkfun.org.April 9: Senior Recital, pianist Nancy Mizzell, 7:30 p.m., John S. Burd Center for the Performing Arts, Banks Recital Hall, Brenau University. Free. 770-538-4764, www.brenau.edu/music.April 9-13: Landscape Painting Workshop, Gainesville. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St., Gainesville. Fee: $600. www.quinlanartscenter.com.

April 10: Forum: “Ike & Me” with Fran Johnson. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., Gainesville. 770-297-5900, www.negahc.org.April 10-15, 17-21: Gainesville Theatre Alliance’s “The Importance of Being Earnest” by Oscar Wilde. 7:30 p.m. April 10-14 and 17-21; 2:30 p.m, April 15 and 21. Gainesville State College’s Ed Cabell Theatre, 3850 Mundy Mill Road, Oakwood. $16-18 for adults, $14-16 for seniors and $10-12 for students. 678-717-3624, www.gainesvilletheatrealliance.org. April 12: “You Don’t Know What I Got” film by Linda Duvoisin. 7:30 p.m. Arts Council’s Smithgall Arts Center. Presented by The Arts Council and Gainesville State College as a part of The Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers series. Director’s Q&A session with filmmaker following the screening. $7 adults, $5 seniors/students. 770-534-2787, www.theartscouncil.net.April 12-14: Brenau University’s Faculty Dance Concert, 7:30 p.m., Brenau University’s Pearce Auditorium. Tickets on sale at door: $6 general, $4 children, seniors and students, free for Brenau students, faculty and staff. 770-538-4757.April 13-14: Gainesville State College Alumni Reunion Weekend, Oakwood. 678-717-3648, jhendrickson@gsc.edu, www.gsc.edu/alumni.April 13-15: North American Road Racing Association, Road Atlanta, 5300 Winder Highway, Braselton, 800-849-7223, 770-967-6143, www.roadatlanta.com, NARRAonline.com.April 13: Brenau Senior Recital, pianist Yuxi Liu, 7:30 p.m., John S. Burd Center for the Performing Arts, Banks Recital Hall. Free. 770-

538-4764, www.brenau.edu/music.April 14-May 6: 2012 Brenau Collaborative: Undergraduate Juried Exhibition and Senior Projects and Portfolio Exhibits, Brenau University. Simmons Visual Arts Center, Sellars Gallery and Presidents Gallery and John S. Burd Center for the Performing Arts Leo Castelli Art Gallery. Opening reception in all galleries 5:30-7:30 p.m. April 14. Free. 770-534-6263. April 15: 2012 Doubles Disc Golf Tournament, 2 p.m., North Georgia Canopy Tours, 5290 Harris Road, Lula. Fee: $15 (includes $5 greens fee). No pre-registration required. Spectators welcome. 770- 869-7272, keith10444@aol.com, www.northgeorgiacanopytours.com. April 16: Spring Choral Concert, “An American Tapestry,” 7:30 p.m., Brenau University’s Pearce Auditorium. Brenau University’s Spectrum Singers and Vocal Chamber Ensemble. Free. 770-538-4764, www.brenau.edu/music.April 16-20: Earth Day Craft Week, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St., Suite 11, Gainesville. Fee: $1 per craft, members free. 770-536-1900, www.inkfun.org. April 18: Gainesville State College’s Colloquium Series, author Janisse Ray, noon, Continuing Education/Performing Arts Auditorium, Oakwood campus. www.gsc.edu.April 19: “Across Many Waters,” Gainesville. Opening reception 5:30-7 p.m. exhibit through June 9. Solo work by Sandra Landergott on display. Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St., Gainesville. www.quinlanartscenter.com.

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April 19-21: Oil Painting, Still Life and Figure Workshop, Gainesville. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Workshop taught by artist Gregg Kreutz. Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St., Gainesville. $630. www.quinlartscenter.org.April 20: Del Baroni Trio. 8 p.m. Part of the Evenings Of Intimate Jazz presented by the Arts Council at the Smithgall Arts Center. $30. 770-534-2787, www.theartscouncil.net.April 20-22: Big Kahuna AMA motorcycle races, Road Atlanta, 5300 Winder Highway, Braselton. 1-800-849-7223, 770-967-6143, www.roadatlanta.com.April 21: “reViving Your Classics.” Antique Dealers, restoration specialists. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., Gainesville. 770-297-5900, www.negahc.org.April 21: Earth Day 2012 at Elachee, 10 a.m.-noon, Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. 770-535-1976, www.elachee.org.April 27-29: The Mitty, vintage car road races, Road Atlanta, 5300 Winder Highway, Braselton. 800-849-7223, 770-967-6143, www.roadatlanta.com.April 28: Stars Over Elachee, 7:45-9:45 p.m., Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville, Chicopee Lake. Suggested for adults and children ages 8 and up. Reservations are required. Fee: $10 adults, $5 ages 2-12. 770-535-1976, www.elachee.org.April 21: Senior Recitals, tenor Jeff Akana, trumpeter Matt Scout, 7:30 p.m., Brenau University’s Pearce Auditorium. Free. 770-538-4764, www.brenau.edu/music.April 21: Research Symposium, 2-6 p.m., Brenau University East Campus, College of Health & Science. Reception 6:15-7:30 p.m. Tickets: $25, $10 Brenau faculty and students. 678-707-5000.April 23-24: Gainesville State College Spring Concert, Ed Cabell Theatre, Oakwood. Free. 678-717-3930, www.gsc.edu.April 23-27: Puppet Craft Week, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St., Suite 11, Gainesville. Fee: $1 per craft, members free. 770-536-1900, www.inkfun.org. April 24: Spelling Bee 2012, Alliance for Literacy, 7 p.m., Brenau University. Tickets on sale at door: $5 adults, $2 children. 770-531-4337, www.allianceforliteracy.org. April 26: BULLI Summer Registration for June 4 to July 13 summer term, 4 p.m., Thurmond McRae Auditorium, Brenau University. 770-538-4705, www.intranet.brenau.edu/bulli.

MayMay 1: Home School Day, Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St., Suite 11, Gainesville. 770-536-1900, www.inkfun.org.May 1-4: Travel Craft Week, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St., Suite 11, Gainesville. Fee: $1 per craft, members free. 770-536-1900, www.inkfun.org. May 4: Dancing at Dusk, Gainesville Ballet outdoor dance event, Brenau University Amphitheater. 770-532-4241, www.gainesvilleballet.org.May 4-6: Lanier Canoe Kayak Club, 2012 Canadian Olympic Trials, Lake Lanier Olympic venue. 770-287-7888, www.lckc.org.May 5: First Saturday Hike at Elachee, “Birds and Migration,” 10-11:30 a.m., Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville.

Naturalist-guided hike in Chicopee Woods Nature Preserve. Fee: $5 adults, $3 ages 2-12, under 2 and Elachee members free. 770-535-1976, www.elachee.org.May 5: Elachee’s Trail Crew Work Day, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. Bring water, lunch, gloves and rain gear. Tools, training and afternoon refreshments provided. Under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Free. 770-535-1976, www.elachee.org.May 7-11: Mother’s Day Craft Week, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St., Suite 11, Gainesville. Fee: $1 per craft, members free. 770-536-1900, www.inkfun.org. May 8: Forum: “Frontier Medicine” with Jack Butterworth. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., Gainesville. 770-297-5900, www.negahc.org.May 11: Elachee’s annual “Flights of Fancy” Benefit Auction, 6-9 p.m., Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. Dinner, wine, music, silent auction of garden items, birdhouses and yard art created by local artists. Proceeds benefit Elachee’s education programs. 770-535-1976, www.elachee.org.May 11-12: Drift Atlanta races, Road Atlanta, 5300 Winder Highway, Braselton. 800-849-7223, 770-967-6143, www.roadatlanta.com.May 12: Lanier Canoe Kayak Club’s Spring BBI Junior Olympic Program Fungatta. Lake Lanier Olympic Venue. 770-287-7888, www.lckc.org.May 12-Sept. 30: “Come Try Its” and boat rentals. 1-6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Lake Lanier Olympic Venue. Closed Sept. 8. 770-287-7888, www.lckc.org.May 13: Gainesville School of Ballet performances, 2 and 5:30 p.m., Pearce Auditorium at Brenau University. Tickets: $6. Gainesville Ballet, 770-532-4241, www.gainesvilleballet.org.May 14-18: Fish Craft Week, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St., Suite 11, Gainesville, Fee: $1 per craft, members free. 770-536-1900, www.inkfun.org.May 15-24: Adult Learn to Kayak class. 6-7:30 p.m. 770-287-7888, www.lckc.org.May 19: Larry Barker Quartet. 8 p.m. Part of the Evenings Of Intimate Jazz presented by the Arts Council at the Smithgall Arts Center. $30. 770-534-2787, www.theartscouncil.net.May 19-20: 2012 USA Canoe/Kayak Marathon Trials. Lake Lanier Olympic Venue. 770-287-7888, www.lckc.org.

May 20: Family Day, Butterfly Release in Wilshire Park. 1-4 p.m. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., Gainesville. 770-297-5900, www.negahc.org.May 20: 2012 Doubles Disc Golf Tournament, 2 p.m., North Georgia Canopy Tours, 5290 Harris Road, Lula. Fee: $15 (includes $5 greens fee). No pre-registration required. Spectators welcome. 770- 869-7272, keith10444@aol.com, www.northgeorgiacanopytours.com. May 25-26: Brenau Barbecue Championship, Brenau University, Gainesville. Sanctioned event, 60 teams, including national champions and local teams. Vendors, car show, music, kids’ activities. Tickets: $5, kids free. 770-534-6161, jbarco@brenau.edu, www.brenau.edu/bbq.

Banks CountyAprilApril 13-15: NMRA/NMCA All Star Nationals, Atlanta Dragway, 500 E. Ridgeway Road, Commerce. 706-335-2301, www.atlantadragway.com.April 26: Banks County Chamber CVB Golf Spring Golf Tournament, noon, Scales Country Club, Homer. Banks County Chamber CVB, 706-677-2108, bankscountychamber@windstream.net.

MayMay 4-6: NHRA Summit Racing Equipment Southern Nationals, Atlanta Dragway, 500 E. Ridgeway Road, Commerce. 706-335-2301, www.atlantadragway.com.May 10: Chamber Picnic, Ragsdale Mill Property, 6:30 p.m. Banks County Chamber CVB, 706-677-2108, bankcountychamber@windstream.net.May 26: Day at Fort Hollingsworth, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 2307 Wynn Lake Road, Alto. Music, storytelling, 1860s vintage dance, Civil War re-enactment, tours, car show, food. Free. 706-754-4538, www.forthollingsworth-whitehouse.com, fort@forthollingsworth-whitehouse.com.March 22: Banks County AARP monthly luncheon, 11 a.m. Lisa McClure, 678-617-3756.April 26: Banks County AARP monthly luncheon, 11 a.m. Lisa McClure, 678-617-3756.May 24: Banks County AARP monthly luncheon, 11 a.m. Lisa McClure, 678-617-3756.

For The Times

Fill your need for speed at the NHRA Southern Nationals on May 4-6 at Atlanta Dragway.

Dawson CountyMarchMarch 2-4: Appalachian Trail Celebration & Backpacking Clinic, 7-9 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, Amicalola Falls State Park. $5 parking. 706-265-1969.

AprilApril 7: “Two for the Road” art exhibit, Brown, through May 25, Bowen Center for the Arts, 334 Ga. 9 N, Dawsonville. Artist reception, 2-4 p.m. April 14. 706- 216-2787, www.dawsonarts.org. April 14-15: Spring Wildflower Festival, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, Amicalola Falls State Park. Hike, kids’ crafts. $5 parking. 706-265-1969.

MayMay 5-6: Dawsonville Spring Fling Festival, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Dawson County Middle School and the Bowen Center for the Arts, 334 Ga. 9 N. Artist market, crafts, food, rides. marciachelf@dawsonarts.org, 706-216-2787.May 5-6: Wings of Flight, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, $5 parking. 706-265-1969.

Forsyth CountyMarchMarch 3: Intro to Permaculture gardening workshop, 9:30-noon. Cedar Hill Enrichment Center, 5735 Dawsonville Highway, Gainesville. $25. 770-887-0051, www.discovercedarhill.org. March 3: The North Georgia Barbershop Singers, 8 p.m., The Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming. 770-781-9178, www.playhousecumming.com.March 4: Peppino D’Agostino and Carlos Reyes in Concert, 3 p.m., The Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming. 770-781-9178, www.playhousecumming.com.March 10: Planning and Caring for Cool Season Vegetables, Forsyth County Cooperative Extension Vegetable Gardening Workshop and Seminar Series, 9 a.m.-noon, Central Park Recreation Building. $5. 770-887-2418.March 8-11: Ozark Jubilee, 8 p.m., 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday matinees, Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming. 770-781-9178, www.playhousecumming.com.March 13: Sounds of Sawnee “Music of the British Isles,” 8 p.m., Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming. 770-781-9178, www.playhousecumming.com.March 16-18: Summerwind, 8 p.m., 3 p.m., Sunday matinee, Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming. 770-781-9178, www.playhousecumming.com.March 20: Spring Equinox Celebration. Cedar Hill Enrichment Center, 5735 Dawsonville Highway, Gainesville. 770-887-0051, www.discovercedarhill.org.March 24: “Who’s In Your Soil?” vermiculture workshop, 10 a.m.-noon. Cedar Hill Enrichment Center, 5735 Dawsonville Highway, Gainesville. Fee: $20 in advance, $25 after March 16. 770-887-0051, www.discovercedarhill.org. March 30-31: Plant Sale, Forsyth Master

Gardeners, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Cumming Fairgrounds. hnkolich@uga.edu, 770-887-2418, www.caes.uga.edu/extension/forsyth/MG/index.html.

AprilApril 14: Planning and Caring for Warm Season Vegetables, Forsyth County Cooperative Extension Vegetable Gardening Workshop and Seminar Series. $5. 9 a.m.-noon, Central Park Recreation Building meeting room. 770-887-2418.April 20-May 6: Georgia Senior Follies Country Jamboree, 8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday, Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming. 770-781-9178, www.playhousecumming.com.

MayMay 8: Cumming Playhouse Singers Full Chorale “Musical Mirth,” 8 p.m., Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming, 770-781-9178, www.playhousecumming.com.May 12: Organic Gardening, Forsyth County Cooperative Extension Vegetable Gardening Workshop and Seminar Series, 9 a.m.-noon, Central Park Recreation Building. $5. 770-887-2418.May 19: Dalena Ditto Country Variety from Branson, 8 p.m., The Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming, 770-781-9178, www.playhousecumming.com.May 20: Johnny Cash Now, 3 p.m., Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming. 770-781-9178, www.playhousecumming.com.May 26: Capital City Xpress, 8 p.m., Cumming Playhouse, 101 School St., Cumming. 770-781-9178, www.playhousecumming.com.

Habersham CountyMarchMarch 17: Clarkesville Shuffle 5K, 1-Mile Fun Run 9:30 a.m., 5K 10 a.m., downtown Clarkesville. 706-754-2220, www.clarkesvillega.com. March 24: Casino Night at the Community House, 6-10 p.m., 601 Wyly St., Cornelia. Fundraiser for Cornelia Facade Grant Program sponsored by the Cornelia Downtown Development Authority. Casino games, bingo, prizes. $75, includes prize and drink tickets, dinner. Heather Sinyard, 706-778-8585 ext. 280, bht@corneliageorgia.org March 31: PetFest 2012 & Off-Leash Dog Park Grand Opening, 1-4 p.m., near Cornelia City Park & Community House. Pooch Parade, silly dog contests, rabies clinic, pet adoptions, animal shows. Heather Sinyard, 706-778-8585, ext. 280, bht@corneliageorgia.org

AprilApril 16: Pictures with the Easter Bunny, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Historic Mauldin House Gardens, Clarkesville. 706-754-2220, www.clarkesvillega.com.April 20-21: Cornelia Apple Blossom BBQ Festival, Cornelia. Georgia BBQ Championship event. Pro contest, backyard/amateur contest, entertainment, kids activities. Heather Sinyard, 706-778-8585 ext. 280, bht@corneliageorgia.org.April 21: Magical Gardens of Mauldin, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Historic Mauldin House Gardens,

downtown Clarkesville. Face-painting, story-telling, other children’s activities. 706-754-2220, www.clarkesvillega.com.April 27: Friday Night Flicks, 6 p.m., Sam Pitts Park, Clarkesville. Free movie under the stars. 706-754-2220, www.clarkesvillega.com.

MayMay 4: Friday Night Flicks, 7 p.m., Cornelia City Park baseball field. Heather Sinyard, 706-778-8585, ext. 280. bht@corneliageorgia.org.May 19: 50th annual Mountain Laurel Festival, downtown Clarkesville. Carnival rides, live entertainment, antique auto show, arts and crafts, Appalachian cultural demonstrations, children’s activities, zip-lining, Lions Club parade. 706-754-4216, 706-754-2220,706-968-4190, www.clarkesvillega.com.

Jackson CountyMarchMarch 2-4: Folk-to-Fine Arts Festival & Expo, 5-10 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Commerce Civic Center, 110 State St., Commerce. Admission: $15 Friday, includes Friday artists’ reception; $7 for Saturday and Sunday, ages 10 and under free. 706-335-2954, www.folk-finearts.com. March 20: North Georgia College & State University’s Golden Eagle Band, drum corps style show, “Magick,” 7:30 p.m., Jackson County High School, Jefferson. Free. 706-864-1423, www.ngcsuband.org.

March 29: Book Signing Event, The Birdhouse Studio & Gallery, 4-8 p.m. Six local authors, art for sale.

AprilApril 13: Humane Society of Jackson County annual Fur Ball event, Braselton-Stover House. April 17: Hoschton Business Alliance meeting, 8 a.m., The Oaks Senior Living facility.

Lumpkin CountyOngoing Mountain Music & Medicine Show, old-time live radio show with Appalachian culture, music, and humor. Historic Holly Theater, 69 W. Main, Dahlonega. 7:30 p.m. First Saturday each month through November. 706-864-3759, www.hollytheater.com, www.mmmshow.com.

MarchMarch 1-8: Traveling exhibition, “Lincoln: The Constitution and the Civil War.” 7:30 a.m.-1 a.m. Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m.-1 a.m. Sunday, Library Technology Center, North Georgia College & State University, Dahlonega. Free. 706-864-1520, bmorris@northgeorgia.edu, libguides.northgeorgia.edu/lincoln.March 1: Old-time Music Jam, 1-2 p.m. every Thursday, Historic Vickery House, North Georgia College & State University. Free. 706-864-1540, www.northgeorgia.edu/gasc.

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The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, February 26, 201220

March 2: Observatory-Planetarium Public Education Nights, 8 p.m. most Fridays through April 20. No admittance after show begins. Followed by viewing at North Georgia Astronomical Observatory, weather permitting. George Coleman Planetarium, Health & Natural Sciences Building, North Georgia College & State University, Dahlonega. Free. jjones@northgeorgia.edu.March 2-5: Mars Opposition Watch 2012 at Observatory, 9:30 p.m. each night though March 5, weather permitting. Free. 706-864-8642 (after 8 p.m.) or jjones@northgeorgia.edu.March 5: Great Decisions Lecture Series, Dr. Nancy Dalman of North Georgia College & State University discusses state of the oceans. 6:30-8:30 p.m., Gainesville Civic Center. Free. www.northgeorgia.edu/greatdecisions. March 5: Author and storyteller Carmen Agra Deedy, storytelling workshop, 10:30 a.m.-noon, Library Technology Center, North Georgia College & State University, Dahlonega. Free, but reservations required. 706-864-1540, gasc@northgeorgia.edu.March 7-23: Spring 2012 Visual Arts senior exhibitions, 7:30 a.m.-1 a.m. Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m.-1 a.m. Sunday, Library Technology Center, North Georgia College & State University, Dahlonega. Free. Reception, also free, is 5 p.m. March 22. www.northgeorgia.edu/visualarts/exhibitions.March 8: Great Decisions Lecture Series, Dr. Nancy Dalman of North Georgia College & State University discusses state of the oceans. 6:30-8:30 p.m., Cumming Library. Free. www.northgeorgia.edu/greatdecisions.March 12-13: 2012 Forensics Symposium, “Tracking the Perpetrator: Exploring Criminal Behavior,” 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. both days, North Georgia College & State University, Dahlonega. POST credit approved. $295. 706-864-1918, www.northgeorgia.edu/fs2012.March 12: Great Decisions Lecture Series, Dr. Anna Rulska of North Georgia College & State University discusses energy geopolitics. 6:30-8:30 p.m., Gainesville Civic Center. Free. www.northgeorgia.edu/greatdecisions. March 15: Economic Development Summit: “Going Global for Growth,” program for development officials and business owners. 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Library Technology Center, North Georgia College & State University, Dahlonega. $49. 706-864-1614, rboling@northgeorgia.edu, www.northgeorgia.edu/summit. March 15: Great Decisions Lecture Series, Dr. Anna Rulska of North Georgia College & State University discusses energy geopolitics. 6:30-8:30 p.m., Cumming Library. Free. www.northgeorgia.edu/greatdecisions.March 16-18: Spring on Springer Dahlonega Trail Fest. Camping, speakers, films, music, shuttles to Amicalola Falls and Appalachian Trail at Springer Mountain, equipment vendors, workshops on safety, camping techniques and equipment. 5k trail run, canoeing/kayaking, guided hikes, local tours, children’s kid friendly outdoor activities. www.dahlonegatrailfest.org.March 24: North Georgia College & State University’s Golden Eagle Band, drum corps style show, “Magick,” 7 p.m., Riverside Military Academy, Gainesville. Free. 706-864-1423, www.ngcsuband.org.March 24: Open House, 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Memorial Hall Gymnasium, North Georgia

College & State University, Dahlonega. Free, but registration required. 706-864-1800, kbrowning@northgeorgia.edu, www.northgeorgia.edu/openhouse.March 28: David Brothers Trio, 8-9:30 p.m., Nix Fine Arts Center, North Georgia College & State University, Dahlonega. Adults $5; non-NGCSU students $2. Free to North Georgia faculty, staff, students with valid campus ID. 706-864-1423, adavid@northgeorgia.edu.March 28-April 13: Spring 2012 Visual Arts senior exhibitions, Monday -Thursday, 7:30 a.m.-1 a.m.; Friday, 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m.-1 a.m. Library Technology Center, North Georgia College & State University, Dahlonega. Free. Reception, also free, is 5 p.m. April 5. www.northgeorgia.edu/visualarts/exhibitions.March 29: North Georgia College & State University’s Golden Eagle Band, drum corps style show, “Magick,” 8 p.m., North Georgia College & State University, Dahlonega. Free. 706-864-1423, www.ngcsuband.org.March 31: Yahoola Spring Powwow, Crown Mountain at Findley Ridge, Dahlonega. Yahoola United Cherokee Museum and Cultural Education Center fundraiser for museum. yahoolacherokeemuseum.com/rendevous.

AprilApril 2: Patriot Choir, 8-9:30 p.m., Nix Fine Arts Center, North Georgia College & State University, Dahlonega. Adults $5; non-NGSU students $2. Free to North Georgia faculty, staff, students with valid campus ID. 706-864-1423, jbroman@northgeorgia.edu.April 5: Jazz Band concert, 8-9:30 p.m., Nix Fine Arts Center, North Georgia College & State University, Dahlonega. Adults $5; non-NGSU students $2. Free to North Georgia faculty, staff, students with valid campus ID. 706-864-1423, adavid@northgeorgia.edu.April 12: North Georgia College & State University’s Golden Eagle Band, drum corps style show, “Magick,” 7:30 p.m., Northview High School, Alpharetta. Free. 706-864-1423, www.ngcsuband.org.April 18-30: Drawing the Line: The 2012 Hal B. Rhodes III Student Exhibition, 7:30 a.m.-1 a.m. Monday -Thursday, 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m.-1 a.m. Sunday. Library Technology Center, North Georgia College & State University, Dahlonega. Free. Reception, also free, is 5 p.m. April 19. www.northgeorgia.edu/visualarts/exhibitions.April 20-22: Parents-Alumni Weekend, North Georgia College & State University, Dahlonega. Reunions, sporting events, open houses, performances. 706-864-1562, www.northgeorgia.org/paw2012. April 19: North Georgia College & State University Alumni Happy Hour, meet the coaches, 5:30-7 p.m., Tam’s Backstage, Cumming. Hors d’oeuvres, drinks provided. 706-864-1562, www.northgeorgia.org.April 22: North Georgia College & State University’s Golden Eagle Band, drum corps style show, “Magick,” 1 p.m., North Georgia College & State University, Dahlonega. Free. 706-864-1423, www.ngcsuband.org.April 20-22: Bear on the Square Mountain Festival, Dahlonega. Bluegrass music, arts and crafts, folk art and dancing, storytelling. Free performances at Hancock Park stage.

Pre-festival events Friday include music on square, workshops, auction. Saturday, music performances 11 a.m.-5:15 p.m., workshops, evening Mountain Dance, children’s activities; Sunday, performances 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m., morning Gospel Jam. www.bearonthesquare.org.April 23: Symphonic Band concert, 8-9:30 p.m., Nix Fine Arts Center, North Georgia College & State University, Dahlonega. Adults $5; students $2. Free to North Georgia faculty, staff, students with valid campus ID. 706-864-1423, adavid@northgeorgia.edu.

MayMay 4: Graduation and commissioning ceremonies for the School of Science & Health Professions, 7 p.m., Memorial Hall Gymnasium, North Georgia College & State University, Dahlonega. Free. 706-864-1400, www.northgeorgia.edu.May 5: U.S. Army Mountain Ranger Open House, Camp Frank D. Merrill. Demonstration of Ranger skills, display of equipment including helicopters, night vision devices, weapons and parachutes. 5K/15K Mountain Ranger Run begins at Washega 4H Camp. www.dahlonega.org.May 19-20: Dahlonega Arts Council’s Mountain Flower Fine Art and Wine Festival, Dahlonega town square. Art, wine, food, shopping. Parking free around square, $5 at North Georgia College and State University garage. www.dahlonegaarts.org.

Rabun CountyOngoingFirst Friday Fests, 6-8 p.m. May through October. Music and a picnic on the lawn, wine tasting.

Rock House, downtown Clayton. Cricket Werkheiser, 706-782-1520.

MarchMarch 23-25: Georgia Wine Highway Weekend, various vineyards in North Georgia. www.georgiawine.com. Fee: $25. (see details on page 15).May 5: Awakening The Vines Celebration, Tiger Mountain Vineyards, 2592 Old Highway 441 S., Tiger, 706-782-4777, www.tigerwine.com.

AprilApril 13-14: Foxfire Living History Days, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The Foxfire Museum & Heritage Center, 200 Foxfire Lane, Mountain City. Applachian history displays and demonstrations, period costumes, children’s games. Admission: $6 adults, $3 ages 7 to 11, ages 6 and under free. 706-746-5828, www.foxfire.org.April 28-29: Celebrate Clayton Festival, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday, Main Street, Clayton. Free admission. Artists, music, food. Carl Butler, 706-212-0155.

Towns CountyMarchMarch 15: Jeremy Camp in concert, with Francesca Battistelli and Adam Cappa. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Road, Hiawasee. Tickets: $20-$35. 706-896-4191, georgiamountainfairgrounds.com. March 17: Travis Tritt in concert. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Road, Hiawasee, 706-896-4191, georgiamountainfairgrounds.com. Tickets: $40.

For The Times

Basket-making is among the demonstrations at the Foxfire Living History Days festival April 13-14 in Mountain City.

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, February 26, 2012 21

March 24: Randy Travis in concert, Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Road, Hiawasee. $40. 706-896-4191, georgiamountainfairgrounds.com. March 30: Art Gallery New Exhibit Opening, “Colors of Spring,” 5:30-6:30 p.m., Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa, 6321 U.S. 76, Young Harris. Runs through July 12. All pieces available for purchase. Free. 706-379-4606, www.brasstownvalley.com.

AprilApril 21: Mercy Me in concert, with Moriah Peters & Chris August. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Road, Hiawasee. $25-$45. 706-896-4191, georgiamountainfairgrounds.com. April 18-19: Georgia Mountain Eggfest cooking contest, Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Hiawassee. 5-8 p.m. Friday, 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. Cooks $10 ($15 after May 6), tasters $20, couples $35, ages 12 and under free. 706-896-4191, georgiamountainfairgrounds.com.

MayMay 6: Art on the Lawn, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa, 6321 U.S. 76, Young Harris. Free. 706-379-4606, www.brasstownvalley.com. May 12-13: Annual Mothers Day Arts & Crafts Show, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa, 6321 U.S. 76, Young Harris. Free. 706-379-4606, www.brasstownvalley.com. May 26: Spring Festival, Cane Creek Vineyards, 916 Crane Creek Road, Young Harris. 706-379-1236, www.cranecreekvineyards.com.

Union CountyOngoingNorth Georgia Idol, Saturday in March, finale March 31, The Lodge at Copperhead, 171 Copperhead Parkway, Blairsville. Free to spectators. 706-835-7433, www.thelodgeatcopperhead.com.

AprilApril 7: Car & Bike Show, second anniversary party, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The Lodge at Copperhead, 171 Copperhead Parkway, Blairsville. Live music, cash prizes. Free to spectators. 706-835-7433, www.thelodgeatcopperhead.com. April 21: High Noon Band, 6:30-10:30 p.m., The Lodge at Copperhead, 171 Copperhead Parkway, Blairsville. 706-835-7433, www.thelodgeatcopperhead.com.

May May 25-28: Memorial Day Celebration, The Lodge at Copperhead, 171 Copperhead Parkway, Blairsville. Live music, fireworks. 706-835-7433, www.thelodgeatcopperhead.com.

White CountyOngoingArt exhibit, “The Color Red,” through March 4, Sautee Nacoochee Center Gallery. 283 Ga. 255 N., Sautee. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Free.

www.snca.org.

FebruaryFeb. 26: Falconry Experience, 2-5 p.m., Buck Shoals State Park. Presentation, live hunt. Register in advance. $25. 706-878-3087, www.gastateparks.org/SmithgallWoods.

MarchMarch 3: Volunteer Training, 9-11 a.m. Smithgall Woods State Park. Register by Feb. 29. 706-878-3087.March 4, 11, 18, 25: Mountain Biking Basics, 1-3 p.m., Smithgall Woods State Park. Basic skills, safety, equipment. $110, includes bicycle and helmet rental. Ages 12 and older. 706-878-3087, www.gastateparks.org/SmithgallWoods.March 9: Art exhibit, “Wonders in Wood,” Sautee Nacoochee Center Gallery, 283 Ga. 255 N., Sautee. Runs through April 22. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Free. www.snca.org.March 10: Basic Land Navigation, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Smithgall Woods State Park. Retired Army Special Forces Sgt. Bob Finke. $20. 706-878-3087, www.gastateparks.org/SmithgallWoods.March 10: Volunteer Days, Unicoi State Park, Helen. 800-573-9659, www.gastateparks.org/Unicoi.March 17: St. Patrick’s Celebration, Babyland General, Cleveland. 706-865-2171, www.cabbagepatchkids.com.March 17: Flies and Fly Water, 9:30 a.m.-noon, Smithgall Woods State Park. $5 adults. 706-878-3087, www.gastateparks.org/SmithgallWoods.March 17: Caroline Aiken & Dede Vogt in concert, 8 p.m., Center Theatre. Sautee Nachoochee Center, 283 Ga. 255 N. Tickets: $22, members $16. St. Paddy’s Day Dinner before the show, $10. 706-878-3300, www.snca.org,March 18: Chat with an Artist, 2 p.m., Georgia Heritage Arts Association, Arts & Fine Craft Gallery, 8016 S. Main St., Helen. 706-892-1033, www.experiencegeorgiaarts.org.March 24: Astronomy Night, Unicoi State Park, Helen. Weather and clouds permitting. 800-573-9659, www.gastateparks.org/Unicoi.March 24: Contra Dance, 8 p.m., gymnasium. Sautee Nachoochee Center, 283 Ga. 255 N. Admission: $8 adults, $4 students. Live music, caller, potluck dinner before dance. 706-878-3300, ww.snca.org. March 24-April 8: Easter Eggstravaganza & Rabbitpalooza, North Ga. Zoo, 2912 Paradise Valley Road, Cleveland. Baby bunnies, egg hunts, petting zoo. 706-348 7292, www.northgeorgiazoo.com. March 31: Trout Tournament, Helen Chamber of Commerce. Raffle and demonstrations along Chattahoochee River. 706-878-1908.March 31: Easter Eggstravaganza, Babyland General Hospital & White County Chamber of Commerce. Egg Hunt, arts & crafts show, Easter parade downtown Cleveland. 706-865-2171, 706-865-5356, www.cabbagepatchkids.com.

AprilApril 7: Guest Artist Show and Reception, 5-7 p.m., Georgia Heritage Arts Association, Arts & Fine Craft Gallery, 8016 S. Main St., Helen. 706-892-1033, www.experiencegeorgiaarts.org.April 7: Wild About Wildflowers, 1 p.m. Saturdays

in April, Unicoi State Park, Helen. Pre-registration required. 800-573-9659, www.gastateparks.org/Unicoi.April 7: Easter Fun, Unicoi State Park, Helen. 800-573-9659, www.gastateparks.org/Unicoi.April 7: White County Cork & Keg Festival, Helen Festhalle. Food, music, tastings. Sautee-Nacoochee Community Association, 706-878-3300.April 14: Second Saturdays, through October, Nacoochee Village, Habersham Winery. Arts and crafts, music, food and wine tasting. 706-878-9463.April 14: Women For the Woods I, Buck Shoals State Park, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Classes in canoeing/kayaking, hiking, birding, wildflower walks. Admission: $40, $45 after March 30. 706-878-3087, www.gastateparks.org/SmithgallWoods.April 21: Youth Fishing Days at Buck Shoals State Park, 8 a.m.-noon. Children and adult can fish lake stocked with catfish, bass, and bream. Fish caught can be kept; bring bait and rod. No registration required. 706-878-3087, www.gastateparks.org/SmithgallWoods.April 20-21: Corvair Club, Helen Festhalle. 706-878-1908.April 21-22: Shubert Alley in the Valley, Broadway style revue, 8 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, Center theater. Sautee Nachoochee Center, 283 Ga. 255 N. $22, members $16. 706-878-3300, www.snca.org. April 27: Art exhibit, “Bedazzled,” glass artistry, Sautee Nacoochee Center Gallery, 283 Ga. 255 N., Sautee. Runs through June 10. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday,

1-5 p.m. Sunday. Free. www.snca.org.April 28: Children’s Theatre Project Show, “Folktales from around the world,” 7 p.m., Center Theatre. Sautee Nachoochee Center, 283 Ga. 255 N. Free. 706-878-3300, www.snca.org. April 28: Wurstfest, Downtown Helen & Festhalle. Food tastings, 11 a.m.- 5 p.m., German beer tasting, 6-11 p.m. Euro-Volks Dancers perform at 1, 2 and 3 p.m. 706-878-1908.April 28: Contra Dance, 8 p.m., gymnasium, Sautee Nachoochee Center, 283 Ga. 255 N., Adults $8, students $4. Live music, caller, potluck dinner before dance. 706-878-3300, www.snca.org.

MayMay 5-6: Wool Fest & Farm Days, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., North Ga. Zoo, 2912 Paradise Valley Road, Cleveland. 706-348 7292, www.northgeorgia zoo.com.May 3-6: Georgia Mountain Birdfest, Unicoi State Park, Helen. Birders from beginners to experts participate in field trips, lectures, hands-on activities, classes for all ages and experience. Register in advance. 800-573-9659, www.gastateparks.org/Unicoi.May 4: First Fridays Music Pickin’ on the Porch, 6-9 p.m., Sautee Village. Music, food and fun. Free, donations accepted. Proceeds go to the Charles Smithgall Humane Society. 706-878-0144.May 5: Winefest, Habersham Winery. Helen. 706-878-9463.

Sunday Worship Opportunities8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship, Sanctuary (Lakeside worship, May-Sept.)

9:30 a.m. Living Waters Praise & Worship, GREAT Room*10:55 a.m. JAM – Jesus and Me (for children 3-4 years old & kindergarten)

10:55 a.m. Living Waters Praise & Worship, GREAT Room10:55 a.m. Traditional Worship, Sanctuary 5:00 p.m. The Harbor (Youth Fellowship)

Loving childcare is offered during all worship services for infants through 36 months.*American sign language interpreter is at 9:30 a.m. service.

2780 Thompson Bridge RdGainesville, Georgia, 30506

770-536-2341www.gfumc.com

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The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, February 26, 201222

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May 5: Guest Artist” Show and Reception, 5-7 p.m., Georgia Heritage Arts Association, Arts & Fine Craft Gallery, 8016 S. Main St., Helen. 706-892-1033, www.experiencegeorgiaarts.org.May 12-13: Celebrating Moms, North Ga. Zoo, 2912 Paradise Valley Road, Cleveland. Mothers free with child’s admission on Mother’s Day. 706-348 7292, www.northgeorgiazoo.com.May 18: Golf Tournament, Innsbruck Golf Course, Helen. Fundrasier for Sautee Nachoochee Center, 283 Ga. 255 N. Fee: $75. 706-878-3300, www.snca.org. May 19: Folk Life Festival. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sautee Nachoochee Center, 283 Ga. 255 N., 706-878-3300, www.snca.org.May 19: Contra Dance, 8 p.m. gymnasium, Sautee Nachoochee Center, 283 Ga. 255 N., Adults $8, students $4. Live music, caller, potluck dinner before dance. 706-878-3300, www.snca.org.May 19: Kids Day at the Park, Smithgall Woods State Park, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Exhibits in outdoor sports, recreation and environmental education, archery, animal exhibits, compass games, air rifles, stream critters. $6 parking. No registration required. 706-878-3087, www.gastateparks.org/SmithgallWoods.May 18-19: Southern Worthersee VW/Audi Car Show, Helendorf River Inn, Helen. 706-878-2271, www.helenga.org.May 25-27: Memorial Day Blast, Unicoi State Park, Helen. Relay races, field day activities, campfire, music, concerts, hoedown. 800-573-9659, www.gastateparks.org/Unicoi.May 26: Visiting Artist Series, Unicoi State Park, Helen. 800-573-9659, www.gastateparks.org/Unicoi. Weekend through mid-November.May 26: Bavarianfest, Festhalle, Helen Chamber of Commerce. Food, live music and dancing. 706-878-1908, www.helenga.org. May 26: Saturday Evening Music Concert Series, Unicoi State Park, Helen. 8 p.m. through November. Appalachian Mountain, Bluegrass, and Southern Gospel. Free, donations accepted. 800-573-9659, www.gastateparks.org/Unicoi. May 26: Pig Out, barbecue fundraiser for volunteer fire department, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Community Hall, Sautee Nachoochee Center, 283 Ga. 255 N. 706-878-3300, www.snca.org.May 31-June 2: Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race, Helendorf Inn, Helen. 706-878-2271, www.helenga.org.

Tourism contactsBanks County, Chamber of Commerce, 706-677-2108, 800-638-5004, www.bankscountyga.org; Convention and Visitors Bureau, 706-677-5265Forsyth County, Chamber of Commerce, 770-887-6461, www.cummingforsythchamber.orgHabersham County, Chamber of Commerce,

668 Clarkesville St., Cornelia; 706-778-4654, 800- 835-2559, fax 706-776-1416; www.habershamchamber.comDahlonega-Lumpkin County, Chamber of Commerce, 800-231-5543, 706-864-3711, www.dahlonega.orgJackson County, Chamber of Commerce, 270 Athens St., P.O. Box 629, Jefferson, 706-387-0300, www.jacksoncountyga.com

Rabun County, Chamber of Commerce, 706-782-4812, www.gamountains.com; Convention & Visitors Bureau, P.O. Box 788, Clayton, 705-982-4754Toccoa-Stephens County, Chamber & Welcome Center, 706-886-2132, 901 East Currahee, ToccoaTowns County, Chamber of Commerce, 706-896-4966; www.townscountytourism. com

Union County, Chamber of Commerce, 706-745-5789, 877-745-5789, www.blairsvillechamber.comWhite County, Chamber of Commerce, 706-865-5356, www.whitecountychamber.org, www.whitecounty.com; Helen Chamber of Commerce, 706-878-1619, helenchamber.com; Helen Welcome Center, 800-858-8027, www.helenga.org

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, February 26, 2012 23

www.freechapel .org

If you have questions about Free Chapel or any of our ministries please visit our website, and we will give you

an overview of what you will experience and what we have to o�er. You can also connect with us via

facebook or twitter.

At Free Chapel, we believe the journey begins with an encounter with Christ through inspired worship and relevant application of His Word. It’s through His Word that we know He’ll reveal Himself to you and your family. Seek Him and you will discover your destiny. The Lord says that He has plans for you, plans to prosper you - to give you a hope and a future.

Our Pastor, Jentezen Franklin, is a teacher, musician and New York Times best selling author as well as devoted husband and father.

If you’re someone looking for an exciting children’s ministry, dynamic youth, singles or adult ministries, then we believe Free Chapel is the church you’ve been looking for. We believe in family and invest heavily into bringing spiritual growth and wholeness into your home.

24 The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, February 26, 2012