Splash 2014 by The Times

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The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, May 25, 2014

Your guide to summer fun on Lake Lanier

Summer events calendar

Things to do from islands to highlands

Lake Lanier parks map

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Summer 2014

gainesvilletimes com

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New laws and efforts by nonprofit agencies aim to keep Lake Lanier safer for everyone this summer.

Our complete map of Lake Lanier shows parks, campgrounds and marinas and what they offer.

Welcome to Splash

Here is the summer leisure guide produced by the staff of The Times, offering tips on places to go and things to do in and around Lake Lanier and Northeast Georgia. We hope you find it fun and useful. If you have ideas to include in future editions, or in our fall guide Harvest, email us at kalbertson@gainesvilletimes.com. For more on Lake Lanier, see our sister publication LAKE Destination Lanier, and visit destinationlanier.com.

What’s new at Lake Lanier Islands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Area waterparks guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

For those looking to worship by the lakeshore, area churches offer lakeside services during the summer.

Looking for fun stuff to do this summer? Our events calendars give you the rundown on what’s happening throughout Northeast Georgia.

Kayaking at Don Carter State Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Lanier’s marinas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Splash is a publication of The Times, 345 Green St., Gainesville, Ga. A Morris Multimedia Inc. property. Norman Baggs General Manager Keith Albertson Editor

Sherrie Jones Advertising Director

Chris Campbell Chelsea Tench Graphic design

No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by an information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from Morris Multimedia Inc.

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Summer 2014

Laws help boost lake safety New regulations aimed to help prevent accidents, deaths BY ANDREW AKERS For Splash

Summer is on the way, and many Georgians are gearing up for fun on Lake Lanier. While boaters are thinking about relaxation, law enforcement and civic organizations are thinking about how to prevent accidents and deaths. Fortunately, they have a few more tools this year to improve safety. Over the past two years, new laws regulating blood alcohol content of boat operators, life jackets for children and education requirements for new boaters have been passed. “New education laws are going into effect,” said Sgt. Mike Burgamy of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. “If you rent a boat, you are going to have to watch

a mandatory education video before you can actually operate it.” However, the law has one major stipulation: It applies only to boaters born after Jan. 1, 1998. Joanna Cloud of the Lake Lanier Association, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the quality of the lake and promoting water safety, said she welcomes the change but would like to see greater participation in the program. The law also requires children under the age of 13 to wear life jackets while in a moving boat. In addition, laws went into effect last year that lowered the maximum allowable blood-alcohol concentration for boat operators to 0.08, mirroring the state’s DUI law. DNR is also in a strong position to enforce these laws.

“We are actually looking the best we’ve looked in a long time,” Burgamy said. “We have a full staff now, and we will have all five boats running on major holidays.” The new safety measures are not limited to laws and regulations. The Lake Lanier Association kicked off a new buoy lighting system last year. The aim of the program is to attach blinking lights to hazard buoys in order to make them more noticeable when it is dark. “The existing hazard markers are very hard to see, especially at night,” Cloud said. “We discussed the lighting system for about 10 years, but we didn’t have the funding.” That changed when Forsyth County gave the association $20,000 to work on boating safety initiatives. Last August,

the Lake Lanier Association installed the first 20 lights and plans to install another 30 this year. The lights are solarpowered and modular, which helps make repairs easier. New ventures aside, one of the most important ways to improve water safety is for boaters to use awareness and caution, Burgamy said. “Just use a little common sense,” he said. “Before you go out on the lake, know where you are going, when you are going to be back and make sure your boat is in proper condition. “One of the biggest things that is lacking out there is common courtesy. Make sure you are aware of safety and rightof-way laws. Just because you have the bigger boat doesn’t mean you have the right of way.”

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The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Summer 2014

Photo courtesy of Lake Lanier Islands

Furry family friends weighing less than 80 pounds now are welcomed in the renovated LakeHouses at Legacy, as well as campgrounds at Shoal Creek and Blue Ridge.

Who let the dogs in? Lake Lanier Islands upgrades include pet-friendly lodging and heated saltwater pool BY BRANDEE A. THOMAS For Splash When it comes to family-friendly vacation spots, the first locations that come to mind are typically located south of the state line. However, with its latest round of upgrades, the Lake Lanier Islands Resort in Buford is becoming the most magical place in Northeast Georgia for area families -- and their little dogs, too. “If you’re a family resort, you can’t exclude pets. Four-legged friends are a part of the family,” said Chadwick Meyer, resident manager of the Islands’ newly designated pet-friendly resort. “This helps make the vacation planning process less stressful for families because they don’t have to

Lake Lanier Islands Resort summer events Where: 7000 Lake Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford Contact: 770-945-8787, www. lakelanierislands.com Summer events June 8: June Wine Cruise, 2-5 p.m., wine tastings and pairings aboard a 85-foot yacht, $60 per person or $110 per couple June 27-28: Thunder on the Parkway; motorcycle rally and music festival, Peachtree Pointe at Lake Lanier Islands July 4: Independence Day celebration, food and drink specials and fireworks display after dark at LanierWorld

worry about boarding their pet. Now everyone can be together, making memories.” Pets weighing less than 80 pounds are welcomed in the newly renovated LakeHouses at Legacy, as well as the Campgrounds at Shoal Creek and Blue Ridge. Furry guests are also allowed to stay in a special section of the first-floor of the resort’s Legacy Lodge, which have patio access to the outdoors, making potty breaks easy breezy for four-legged visitors.

Even though pets are now welcomed, the resort hasn’t gone to the dogs. Particular attention has been given to making sure that all guests have the best stay possible. Pets are required to be in a carrier or leash when outside of the room, disposable bags have been placed along the walking trails and each pet-friendly room goes through a special cleaning process between guests. Since adding the pet accommodations a couple of months ago, the resort has already seen an increase in more than 200 room nights that weren’t on the books last year. As major as the new pet-friendly designation may be, it’s not the biggest change to be unveiled this year. That honors goes to the new heated lounging pool, public relations and marketing manager Kate Davis said. “We completely dug up the old pool,” Davis said. “Eventually, we will build a cover over it, which will allow us to provide even more activities for our guests all year long.” The new pool features salt water instead of the typical chlorinated water. “You have to have chlorine in any pool to keep it safe, but the difference with a saltwater pool is that salt creates its own chlorine. That chlorine is much better for your skin and less harsh overall,” Meyer said. “We want to always create great experiences for our guests and from a

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Summer 2014

wellness perspective. This is a great improvement.” Salt water and heaters alone do not create a “lounging” pool, but the addition of benches along the interior walls for poolside food and beverage service definitely helps. The expanded pool patio also adds to the relaxing outdoor space. “We’ve been able to almost double the capacity of our pool area. Now a lot more people have the opportunity to enjoy our pool,” Meyer said. “And the expansion of our courtyard provides an awesome tie-in with the resort. Before, when our guests came here and went to the waterpark (LanierWorld), there wasn’t a lot for families – who are the core of our weekend business – to do afterward. “With the expansion, there’s a lot more space for activity. We’re able to offer a more well-rounded experience. We’ve added a variety of games in the courtyard for families, on the weekends we have playtime with Bucky the Beaver on the pool deck and from Memorial Day to Labor Day we bring in a 25-foot inflatable screen on Fridays and Saturdays for family movie nights.” Although many of the new amenities are geared toward families, there are some, like electric bicycles, that are especially for the kids at heart. “We have a fairly sizeable fleet of golf carts that are great for exploring the island, but now we are in the final stages of acquiring Pedego electric bicycles,” Meyers said. “It is very hilly here. One of the challenges that we’ve had with standard bikes is that no matter how good of a bike you buy, after climbing a few of the hills, you’re depleted your tank. When people come to the resort, they don’t want to do such draining exercise. They want to relax. “With the electric bikes, once you start pedaling, the motor kicks in and helps you. So you still get the exercise, but you’re not so

Photo courtesy of Lake Lanier Islands

The new heated lounging pool at Lake Lanier Islands Resort features salt water.

‘With the expansion, there’s a lot more space for activity. We’re able to offer a more well-rounded experience. We’ve added a variety of games in the courtyard for families...’ Chadwick Meyer Resident manager of Lake Lanier Islands Resort drained that you don’t get to enjoy the excursion.” Even with all of the new amenities and activities, there are still old favorites like an 18-hole golf course,

canopy tours, Tranquility spa, horseback riding and, of course, boating. To learn more about Lake

Lanier Islands Resort and to see a current list of their summer-fun activities, visit www.lakelanierislands.com.

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The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Summer 2014

Waterparks aplenty A handy guide to help you prepare for your water adventure BY BRENTON BARRON For Splash

Think of summer and you think of hot, sunny days, the best of which are spent lounging on a sandy beach or by a sparkling blue pool, jumping through a sprinkler in the yard or maybe speeding down a waterslide, screaming all the way. As the heat rises and your mind inevitably starts thinking of ways to cool down, why not take advantage of some of the many exciting, family-friendly water parks and attractions Hall County has to offer? There are three parks in the area — LanierWorld, Splash Zone and Sprayground — all offering a variety of attractions to help the rising heat from getting you down. To help you decide which park best suits your needs, here is a handy guide with everything you need to know.

Photo courtesy of Lake Lanier Islands

The waterpark at LanierWorld at Lake Lanier Islands offers numerous attractions for the whole family.

LanierWorld at Lake Lanier Islands LanierWorld is the Southeast’s ultimate summer destination, conveniently located just in your backyard, with a wide array of attractions for all ages. Contact: www.lakelanierislands.com/ lanierworld, 770-932-7218 Schedule: Open from May 17 through Sept. 7, from 10AM. Days of operation and closing times vary, so check the calendar for the complete schedule at www.lakelanierislands. com/lanierworld/hours) Admission: Adults/children over 42 inches tall $36.99 for a full day’s admission or $26.99 after 4 p.m. Under 42 inches, seniors and military $26.99 for a full day’s admission or 16.99 after 4 p.m. Children under 2 free. The Season Pass Family Pack, which includes 3

season passes to LanierWorld, is $229. You can add additional family members for $60 per person Bring: Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, flip-flops. Dry snacks and one unopened bottle of water allowed inside. Personal chairs and umbrellas also permitted. Do not bring: Coolers, outside food and beverages Attractions: ■ Aquatic Adventure (inflatable obstacle course in the lake) ■ Over a half-mile of white, sandy beaches ■ Dive-in Movies, featuring movies such as Frozen, Brave, Captain America, Monsters, Inc and more, shown on a 200-foot outdoor screen. ■ Daily live entertainment all summer long ■ A variety of dining options, featuring several new options on Boardwalk at Big Beach, the newest

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Summer 2014

addition to LanierWorld, including the new SweetWater Shrimp Shack and Cookie House. ■ Over a dozen water rides, slides and attractions, including Wild Waves, Georgia’s largest wave pool. Children must be over 42 inches tall to ride the rides. ■ For children under 42 inches tall, there is Kiddie Lagoon and Wiggle Waves where there are smaller slides and water attractions, along with a smaller version of the wave pool.

Photo courtesy of Lake Lanier Islands

There are more than a dozen waterslides at LanierWorld, including Georgia’s largest wave pool.

Splash Zone at Frances Meadows Located just off Interstate 985, Frances Meadows relatively new aquatic center houses Splash Zone. While smaller than LanierWorld, Splash Zone has many of its own exciting attractions for all age groups. Where: 1545 Community Way, NE, Gainesville Contact: www.gainesville.org/ frances-meadows, 770-533-5850 Schedule: Open May 24 through Sept. 27. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays Admission: Ages 3 and up $6.42 for Hall County residents, $8 for out of county; 60 and over $4.42 for Hall County residents, $6 for out of county; ages 2 and under are free (swim diaper and plastic pants required) Bring: Proper swimwear (including a swim diaper and plastic pants for all children 2 and under), towel, cash for concessions (credit and debit not accepted). Do not bring: Outside food or drink Attractions: ■ Two 3-story high waterslides ■ Zero depth entry pool ■ Swirl pool and Current Channel (think lazy river) ■ Shallow pool with a large, interactive play structure with various water features for young children, including a smaller kiddie slide ■ Large deck space with chairs ■ Concessions available

Sprayground at Laurel Park Sprayground is the smallest of the three parks, aimed specifically at younger children, nestled in scenic Laurel Park, off U.S. 129. Where: 3100 Old Cleveland Highway, Gainesville Contact: www.hallcounty.org/parks/parks_ details.asp?ID=25, 770-535-8220 Schedule: Open May 24 through Labor Day weekend. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday, noon to 5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Private party rentals available after hours. For more information call 770-535-8220 Admission: $2 Bring: Swimwear, towels. Attractions: Catering to the younger crowd, there are no slides to be found here, but a variety of water features for children to splash around and have fun in.

F ull B loom N ursery The greenhouses are packed with summer color!

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6662 Holly Springs Road , Clermont, GA

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, May 25, 2014

Spl as h Day-use Parks

1 Buford Dam 2 Lower Overlook 3 Powerhouse 4 Lower Pool 5 West Bank 6 Shoal Creek 7 Big Creek 8 Burton Mill 9 Van Pugh South 10 West Bank Overlook

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Boat Ramp

Playground

Picnic Areas

21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Old Federal Balus Creek Mountain View Robinson Simpson Sardis Creek Wahoo Creek Thompson Bridge Little River Lula

Swimming Areas

State, County, City Parks 1 Lake Lanier Islands 2 Flowery Branch 3 River Forks

Campgrounds 1 2 3 4 5

31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42

Belton Bridge Toto Creek Nix Bridge Thompson Creek War Hill Bolding Mill Little Hall Duckett Mill Keith Bridge Long Hollow

6 Shady Grove Shoal Creek 7 Bald Ridge Creek Old Federal 8 Sawnee Duckett Mill 9 River Forks (Hall) War Hill Toto Creek 10 Bolding Mill 11Van Pugh South

Vannâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tavern Bethel Two Mile Six Mile Charleston Young Deer Tidwell Little Ridge Mary Alice East Bank Lanier Park Van Pugh North 7 Laurel Park 8 Clarks Bridge 9 Lumpkin

4 Lanier Point 5 Longwood Park 6 Holly Park

Marinas 1 Lanier Harbor 2 Lazy Days 3 Holiday 4 Hideaway Bay 5 Aqualand

6 Sunrise Cove 7 Gainesville 8 Port Royale 9 Bald Ridge 10 Habersham

UNIFORM STATE WATERWAY MARKING SYSTEM Keep an eye out for these signs when you are boating on Lake Lanier. They provide crucial information about what lies ahead in the water

DIVER BELOW Boaters should exercise caution when passing through area

OBSTRUCTION MARKER

Indicates not easily seen blockage Do not pass between shore and buoy

BOATS KEEP OUT Danger such as waterfalls, swim areas or rapids ahead may lie outside diamond shape.

DANGER!

Danger may be indicated inside diamond shape, such as rocks, reefs, dams or construction

CAUTION!

Controlled area as indicated in circle, such as speed limit, no fishing, slow-no wake or no prop boats

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Sunday, May 25, 2014

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The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Summer 2014

Paddle your way to FUN BY ALANA SWAIN For Splash

Visitors heading to Don Carter State Park for some summertime fun won’t be disappointed. With biking trails, a swimming beach, and the anticipated start of kayak rentals, the park’s amenities are an outdoor dream. The 1,300-acre park, which is the newest in Georgia and the first in Hall County, opened last summer in July and was dedicated in September. Named for Gainesville businessman and longtime Department of Natural Resources board member Don Carter, the park is located on Lake Lanier with over 10 miles of shoreline. For the past couple of weeks, workers have been constructing a dock to prepare an area for kayak rentals, a new feature, said park naturalist Clint Eller. “They’re building the dock right on the lake so you can pull your boat out and go right into the water,” he said. The park aims to offer six sit-on-top kayaks and two sit-in kayaks to choose

Don Carter State Park an outdoor lover’s dream from, with a plan for courses in addition to the rental program. Rental fees, which are estimated at around $30, will include the boat, paddles, and flotation devices, and will allow the guest to have the kayak for a set amount of hours. “I think it will be very, very popular, especially this time of year,” Eller said. “The sit-on-tops are easy to do and anybody can get in one and have it down within a few minutes.” Eller said the park expects to have the rental program for the kayaks ready by Memorial Day. Additionally, now that the park has a naturalist to conduct programs and classes, guests can gain valuable outdoor knowledge while having fun. “We are doing tons of classes every weekend — two or three classes every Saturday and Sunday,” said Eller. “Everything from easy camp cooking, where we’re teaching people how to cook while they’re camping, canoeing, snake identification, nature hikes where we look for animal tracks, and even bird classes coming toward the end of May, so we’re full-

Don Carter State Park Where: 5000 N. Browning Bridge Road, Gainesville Hours: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, yearround Fees: Parking, $5. Most day-use activities are free of charge; most classes are $3-5; boats, campsites, cottages, and covered picnic shelters all require rental fees. For reservations, call 1-800-864-7275. More information: 678-450-7726, gastateparks.org/doncarter

blown going now,” he said. Other classes include campfire safety and a lakeview loop hike, where guests can take an easy hike with a view of the lake while learning about flora and fauna. Most classes have a $3 to $5 fee. While the canoeing classes will require registration due to limited availability of materials, other classes are available without NAT GURLEY | For Splash

The Chota section of the Chattahoochee as it flows past Don Carter State Park is calm and scenic in early May as naturalist Clint Eller demonstrates one of the sit-on-top kayaks available soon to rent at Don Carter State Park.

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Summer 2014

Courteous and Professional Service EXPERT WATCH AND JEWELRY REPAIR CERTIFIED ROLEX WATCH REPAIRMAN

NAT GURLEY | The Times

Naturalist Clint Eller puts in a kayak at the day-use area boat ramp at Don Carter State Park. The park will begin renting kayaks and canoes as soon as a nearby secure building is built.

any sign-ups. For a full list, schedule and pricing of classes offered, visit the park’s website at gastateparks.org/doncarter. Eller said the park is also working on dates for a weekly activity series for kids that would include a nature activity, craft and lunch, and is planning to kick off its junior ranger program this summer. In addition to the new park features, visitors can enjoy biking, boat ramps and docks, camping, fishing, hiking trails, picnicking, and playgrounds, as well as a white sand swimming beach. Accommodations include eight two-bedroom, two-bathroom cottages on scenic spots overlooking the lake; a 44-site RV campground; and a 12-site hike-in tent campground.

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The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Summer 2014

Marinas not just for boat owners BY CHARLES PHELPS

cphelps@gainesvilletimes.com If you’re looking for a place to bask in the sun during the sultry summer months, dock your boat, or just enjoy lakefront views, Lake Lanier has many accommodating choices. There are beaches and water parks that families can enjoy; however, marinas also offer many amenities for families to enjoy. Even if you don’t own a boat, you can spend a summer day at marinas. There are several to choose from on Lake Lanier, including three in Gainesville and others in Buford, Cumming and Flowery Branch. Aqualand Marina in Flowery Branch is the world’s largest inland marina. There are an estimated 2,000 boat slips, or places to dock your boat, available. The maximum length of boats allowed is 100 feet. There’s a public boat launch, or ramp; Dockside Grill restaurant; and picnic areas families can enjoy; boat, canoe, kayak, paddleboard and personal watercraft rental; and fueling station and marina store. With summertime approaching, Aqualand General Manager Patrick Kenney said the leasing office saw a significant rise in inquiries about boat slips in April and it has carried over into May. “We are located on the central part of the lake,” he said. “We are a convenient location for the general boaters and we have an easy in-and-out courtesy dock they can use. We will get a high volume of boat traffic.”

SCOTT ROGERS | The Times

Sailboats anchored in Sunrise Cove Marina on Lake Lanier.

Lanier’s moorings offer plenty of fun for lake lovers

Kenney added that if the customers aren’t on the lake, they can enjoy “friendly service” from the staff during their visit and the “quality” on-site restaurants offered. He also said the marina is “absolutely” expecting to be busy on both the Memorial Day and Fourth of July holidays. “This is the second summer in a row the lake has been at full pool and we’re more optimistic about better weather this summer than last year’s,” he said. Gainesville Marina offers boats for sale, boat slips, boat rentals,

‘This is the second summer in a row the lake has been at full pool and we’re more optimistic about better weather this summer than last year’s.’ Patrick Kenney Aqualand General Manager

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Summer 2014

Marinas

Bald Ridge Marina in Cumming has 600 boat slips. Ninety-five-foot boats are the maximum to use a slip. It offers boat services, maintenance, rentals and sales; fishing and tackle shop; tennis courts; and a new restaurant opening this month. Habersham Marina in Cumming has a marina store and service center, as well as 625 dry stacks for dry storage. There are also two marinas on south Lake Lanier in Buford, Aquamarina Lazy Days and Holiday Marina on Lake Lanier. Aquamarina offers boat slips, dry storage, a service center for boats and a marina store. Holiday offers a fueling station and service center and marina store, and boats for rent and sale.

Bald Ridge Marina

a fueling station and a service center for your boat, Skogies Lakefront Restaurant and the marina store. Port Royale Marina, also in Gainesville, offers boats for sale or rent and slips for docking. It also provides a service center, fueling station, store and Pelican Peteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s restaurant. The final marina in Gainesville is Sunrise Cove Marina. Sunrise offers a public park, used only during the day, a rentable clubhouse, marina store and fueling station. Hideaway Bay Marina in Flowery Branch can house 510 boats with 45-foot boats being the maximum length. It has an on-site restaurant, boat dealership and a floating store on the docks.

Address: 1850 Bald Ridge Marina Road, Cumming, GA 30041 Online: www.baldridgemarina.com More information: 770-887-5309

KEEPING YOU IN THE GAME

Aqualand Marina Address: 6800 Lights Ferry Road, Flowery Branch, GA 30542 Online: www.aqualandmarina.com More information: 770-967-6811

Aquamarina Lazy Days Address: 6700 Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford, GA 30518 Online: www.ilovemymarina.com/marina/ Buford_GA/zip_30518/aquamarina/1555 More information: 770-945-1991

Gainesville Marina Address: 2145 Dawsonville Highway, Gainesville, GA 30501 Online: www.gainesvillemarina.com More information: 770-536-2171

Habersham Marina Address: 2200 Habersham Marina Road, Cumming, GA 30041 Online: www.habershammarina.com More information: 770-887-5432

Hideaway Bay Marina Address: 6334 Mitchell St., Flowery Branch, GA 30542 Online: www.hideawaybaymarina.com More information: 770-967-5500

Holiday Marina On Lake Lanier Address: 6900 Holiday Road, Buford, GA 30518 Online: www.holidaylakelanier.com More information: 770-945-7201

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Lanier Harbor Address: 2066 Pine Tree Drive, Buford Online: www.lanierharbor.com More information: 770-945-2884

Port Royale Marina Address: 8800 Port Royale Drive, Gainesville, GA 30506 Online: www.bestinboating.com/ga/lakelanier/port-royale/ More information: 770-887-5715

Sunrise Cove Marina Address: 5725 Flat Creek Road, Gainesville, GA 30504 Online: www.sunrisecovemarina.com More information: 770-536-8599

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The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Summer 2014

Worship by the lakeshore

JOSHUA L. JONES | For Splash

The congregation at Gainesville First United Methodist Church begins its 37th year of seasonal lakeside morning worship service May 4.

Spend your Sunday morning church service in a contemporary style You’ll Appreciate the Difference! BY SAVANNAH KING

sking@gainesvilletimes.com Some Sundays are far too beautiful to be spent indoors at church, especially when you live near the shores of Lake Lanier. While sunshine filtered through stained glass windows is glorious, so natural sunlight filtered through clouds and reflected off the water. Some local churches offer outdoor lakeside services for the faithful who simply can’t bear being inside. Gainesville First United Methodist Church has been offering its Lakeside Worship services since the 1970s before the present-day church

on Thompson Bridge Road was constructed. The services begin at 8:30 a.m. on the first Sunday in May and go through the last Sunday in September. Terry Walton, senior pastor of Gainesville First United Methodist, said the services are appealing to a variety of people. “It’s a very unique service,” Walton said. “It attracts all kinds of folks. It attracts folks who prefer a contemporary worship style and folks who prefer a traditional worship style. It attracts folks, I think, because they can wear their flip-flops and their shorts. They can come in their boats or their cars. It’s very relaxed,

Kell D. Gallaher, D.M.D.

Paul Gannon, D.M.D.

Michael S. Vetter, D.M.D.

www.gainesvilledentalgroup.com

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Summer 2014

and it’s a very embracing environment.” The services feature a message similar to the ones shared in the regular, indoor services and a variety of musical worship styles — from chorus to bluegrass. The church also holds the Holy Sacrament on the first Sunday of the month. Those who attend can bring picnic blankets, lawn chairs or tune into the service’s FM radio station while they make themselves comfortable on their boats. Walton said the “sanctuary without walls” provides a cool breeze where the sound of chirping birds and morning light through the trees creates an inviting ambiance. “It just has a unique pull,” Walton said. Lanier Christian Church on Dawsonville Highway in Gainesville also has a service designed to reach the people who escape to the lake on the weekends. The nondenominational church offers a brief devotional-style service under the pavilion at Gainesville Marina and Boat Sales. The marina is a short distance from the church. The services, beginning Memorial Day weekend, are held from 10 a.m. and last for half an hour. Joy Griffin, worship leader of the lakeside service, said the outdoor devotional is a great way to kick off summer. “It’s a real laid-back service for anyone but also for those that kind of live at the marina over the summer in their houseboats or they take the weekend to be at the lake,”

Lakeside services Gainesville First United Methodist Church Where: 2780 Thompson Bridge Road, Gainesville When: 8:30 a.m. Sunday, May to September Contact: 770-536-2341 or www. gfumc.com

Lanier Christian Church JOSHUA L. JONES | For Splash

Mike Fleming, right, and Eddie Turner of the musical group Brush Fire lead the congregation in worship at the first lakeside service of the spring May 4 at Gainesville First United Methodist Church.

Griffin said. “It’s real laid-back. You can come in your shorts or your swimsuit.” Griffin said the service provides an opportunity to enjoy a day on the lake while meeting spiritual needs. “It’s saying that even though we’re here boating, we’re not going to forget what is most important,” Griffin said. “But it’s an abbreviated service so you don’t have to get dressed up and spend a couple hours off the lake. You can just kind of keep your priorities with a brief worship service and then get on the lake.”

Where: Gainesville Marina and Boat Sales, 2145 Old Dawsonville Highway, Gainesville When: 10 a.m. Sunday, June to September Contact: 770-534-1422, lanierchristianchurch.com, or follow on Facebook at LCCLakesideService

The service began nearly five years ago after a discussion with church members who worked at the marina. “I think a lot of people have this misconception that it’s going to take a long time,” Griffin said. “That you have to dress up, things like that. But we have people bring their dogs and bring their kids. It’s just a way to keep church as your priority without having to give up a full day on the lake.”

Spring events HALL COUNTY First Saturday Hike, 10-11:30 a.m. first Saturday of each month except August; Stars Over Elachee, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through fall; Trail Crew Work Day, Saturdays. Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. 770535-1976, www.elachee.org. Family Fun Night in the Pools. 6 p.m. every third Saturday of the month. YMCA Aquatic Center, 2455 Howard Road, Gainesville. $10. 770-297-9622, grogers@ gamountainsymca.org. Gardening by the Month. Noon to 1 p.m. every first Wednesday of the month. Gardens on Green, 711 Green St., Gainesville. 770-534-1080, 770-535-8293, williamllovett@bellsouth.net. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St., Gainesville. 770-536-1900, www. inkfun.org. June 2-6, Ice Cream Week; June 3, July 1, Aug. 5, Home School Days; June 9-13, Father’s Day Week; June 16-20, Cat Craft Week; June 23-27, Dog Craft Week; July 1-4, Fourth of July Week; July 14-18, Animal Puppet Week; July 21-25, Lollipop Craft Week; July 28-31, Parent Appreciation Week; Aug. 4-8, Cow Craft Week; Aug. 11-15, Back to School Craft Week; Aug. 18-22, Picture Week; Aug. 25-29, Happy Birthday INK. May-June 7: Spring Exhibitions. Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St., Gainesville. Free. 770536-2575, www.quinlanartscenter. org. May-July 3: President’s Summer Arts Center. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Reception 5:30-7 p.m. May 13. Brenau University Simmons Visual Arts Center Sellars Gallery, 200 Boulevard, Gainesville. 770-5346263, www.brenau.edu/about/ brenau-university-galleries/. May 26: Memorial Day Observance. Parade at 10 a.m. Open house 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., Gainesville. Free. 770-297-5900, www. negahc.org, jcarson@brenau.edu. May 28: Monica Spears Blue Sky Concert. Noon to 1 p.m. Downtown Gainesville square. Free. www.gainesville.org. June 6: Starlight Concert and Fireworks Show. 4:30-8:30 p.m. Fireworks at dusk. University of North Georgia Gainesville Campus, 3820 Mundy Mill Road, Oakwood. $10 per car, $20 for

large vans or buses. 678-7173409, amy.lancaster@ung.edu. June 6-8: WERA Cycle Jam. Road Atlanta, 5300 Winder Highway, Braselton. Three-day tickets $35, two-day tickets $25, Sunday only $20. 770-967-6143, www. roadatlanta.com. June 7: Community Yard Sale. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Martha Hope Cabin, 528 Prior St., Gainesville. www. gainesville.org/special-events. June 8: Family Day “The Revolutionary War era in Northeast Georgia.” 1-4 p.m. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., Gainesville. Free. 770-297-5900, www. negahc.org, jcarson@brenau.edu. June 10: History Forum “Mossy Creek Campground.” 7 p.m. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., Gainesville. $3 for nonmembers. 770-2975900, www.negahc.org, jcarson@ brenau.edu. June 11-12: “Bugaboo.” 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Gainesville High School Pam Ware Performing Arts Theatre, 830 Century Plaza, Gainesville. Adults $10; children, students and seniors $5. Purchase tickets at Gainesville Parks and Recreation office in Gainesville Civic Center or at the door. June 12-Aug. 16: Summer Exhibitions. Reception at 5:30 p.m. June 12. Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St., Gainesville. Free. 770-536-2575, www. quinlanartscenter.org. June 13-15: National Auto Sport Association. Road Atlanta, 5300 Winder Highway, Braselton. 770967-6143, www.roadatlanta.com. June 14: Summer Songwriters’ Series Rivers Rutherford and Pat Alger concert. Brenau Downtown Center, 301 Main St., Gainesville. Advance $15, otherwise $20 per show or $50 for all concerts in series. 770-531-3186, bburch@ brenau.edu. June 14: 1st Generation Band concert. 7-11 p.m. Lake Lanier Islands Resort Sunset Cove, 7000 Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford. 770-945-8787, www. lakelanierislands.com. June 16-20: History Center Summer Camp. 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., Gainesville. 770-297-5900, www. negahc.org, jcarson@brenau.edu. June 17-22: Summer Fun in the City Tennis Tournament. 6-11 p.m. Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Summer 2014 Longwood Park, 20 Pearl Nix Parkway, Gainesville. $12.50-$35. 770-532-9900. June 20: Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. 8 p.m. The Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center, 331 Spring St., Gainesville. Adults $35, senior $32, students $28, tables of eight $320. 770-534-2787, www. theartscouncil.net. June 23-27: History Center Summer Camp. 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., Gainesville. 770-297-5900, www. negahc.org, jcarson@brenau.edu. June 28: Beat the Heat 5K. 7:30 a.m. to noon. City Park, 525 Prior St., Gainesville. Before June 26 $20, after $25. www.active.com. July 3: The Northwinds Symphonic Band. 8 p.m. The Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center, 331 Spring St., Gainesville. Adults $18, seniors and students $15, tables of eight $200. 770-534-2787, www.theartscouncil.net. July 7-11: Bracelet Week. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St., Gainesville. $1 with admission. 770-536-1900, www. inkfun.org. July 8: History Forum “Mule and Wagon to Automobile.” 7 p.m. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., Gainesville. $3 for nonmembers. 770-2975900, www.negahc.org, jcarson@ brenau.edu. July 9-12: “Catch me if You Can.” 7:30 p.m. Gainesville High School Pam Ware Performing Arts Theatre, 830 Century Plaza, Gainesville. Adults $17; children, students and seniors $12. Purchase tickets at Gainesville Parks and Recreation office in Gainesville Civic Center or at door. July 12-13: Sports Car Club of America double race. Road Atlanta, 5300 Winder Highway, Braselton. 770-967-6143, www. roadatlanta.com. July 12: Fly Betty Band concert. 7-11 p.m. Lake Lanier Islands Resort Sunset Cove, 7000 Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford. 770945-8787, www.lakelanierislands. com. July 13: Family Day “In the Good Old Summertime: An Oldfashioned Picnic and Games.” 1-4 p.m. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., Gainesville. Free. 770-2975900, www.negahc.org, jcarson@ brenau.edu. July 17-Sept. 12: Women’s Work Art Exhibit. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Reception at 5:30-7:30 p.m. July 17. Brenau University Simmons Visual Arts Center Sellars Gallery, 200 Boulevard, Gainesville. Free. 770-534-6263, www.brenau. edu/about/brenau-university-

galleries/. July 19: Summer Songwriters’ Series Jim McBride and Gary Nicholson concert. Brenau Downtown Center, 301 Main St., Gainesville. Advance $15, otherwise $20 per show or $50 for all concerts in series. 770-5313186, bburch@brenau.edu. July 21-25: Fifth Row Center’s Summer Theater Camp. 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sterling on the Lake, 7004 Lake Sterling Boulevard, Flowery Branch. $245 for nonresidents of Sterling on the Lake, $225 for residents. 678-5703481, www.fifthrowcenter.com, info@fifthrowcenter.com. Aug. 1-2: National Auto Sport Association. Road Atlanta, 5300 Winder Highway, Braselton. 770967-6143, www.roadatlanta.com. Aug. 9: Summer Songwriters’ Series, Bob Dipiero, Chuck Cannon and Lari White concert. Brenau Downtown Center, 301 Main St., Gainesville. Advance $15, $20 per show, $50 series. 770-531-3186, bburch@brenau. edu. Aug. 9: Haywire concert. 7-11 p.m. Lake Lanier Islands Resort Sunset Cove, 7000 Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford. 770-945-8787, www.lakelanierislands.com. Aug. 9: Touch a Truck. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. City Park Complex, 525 Prior St., Gainesville. Free. www. gainesville.org/recreation. Aug. 12: History Forum “Railroads of Northeast Georgia.” 7 p.m. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., Gainesville. $3 for nonmembers. 770-2975900, www.negahc.org, jcarson@ brenau.edu. Aug. 12-17: Northeast Georgia Championship Tennis Tournament. 6-11 p.m. MondayFriday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. Longwood Park, 20 Pearl Nix Parkway, Gainesville. $12.50-$35. 770-5329900. Aug. 17: Family Day “We’ve Been Working on the Railroad.” 1-4 p.m. Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., Gainesville. Free. 770-297-5900, www. negahc.org, jcarson@brenau.edu. Aug. 23: Thunder in the Mountains motorcycle ride. 10:30 a.m. Starting from the top level of the Hall County Courthouse Parking Deck. $25 for drivers, $5 for passengers. Benefits The Georgia Sheriffs Youth Homes. cmann@hallcounty.org, tssmith@ hallcounty.org, 770-531-6900. Aug. 28-31: National Auto Sport Association race. Road Atlanta, 5300 Winder Highway, Braselton. 770-967-6143, www.roadatlanta. com.

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Summer 2014

BANKS COUNTY May 30 to June 1: Chevy High Performance Magazine Nationals. Atlanta Dragway, 500 E. Ridgeway Road, Commerce. www. atlantadragway.com, 706-335-2301. June 14: North Georgia Folk Potters Festival. 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Banks County Middle School, 712 Thompson St., Homer. turpinpottery@ windstream.net, 706-677-1528. June 28: “Night of Fire” Fireworks and More. Atlanta Dragway, 500 E. Ridgeway Road, Commerce. www.atlantadragway.com, 706335-2301. July 27: National Dragster Challenge. Atlanta Dragway, 500 E. Ridgeway Road, Commerce. www.atlantadragway.com, 706-335-2301. Aug. 1-3: Manufacturers Cup. Atlanta Dragway, 500 E. Ridgeway Road, Commerce. www. atlantadragway.com, 706-335-2301. Aug. 22-24: Atlanta Motorcycle Rally. Atlanta Dragway, 500 E. Ridgeway Road, Commerce. www.atlantadragway.com, 706-335-2301.

DAWSON COUNTY Amicalola Falls State Park and Lodge, 418 Amicalola Falls Lodge Road, Dawsonville. $5 parking. 706-344-1500/ For Goodness Snakes. 1 p.m. Sundays through June 29; Close Encounters of the Bird Kind. 1 p.m. Saturdays; Amicalola is Going to the Birds. 7 p.m. last Tuesday every month. June 6: Waterfall Hike. 11 a.m. Amicalola Falls State Park and Lodge, 418 Amicalola Falls Lodge Road, Dawsonville. $5 parking. 706265-8888. June 7-28: Dawson County Arts Council Member Art Show. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, Noon to 4 p.m. Saturdays. Dawson County Arts Council, 334 Ga. 9, Dawsonville. www.dawsonarts.org, 706-2162787. June 13: Twilight Hike. 8-9 p.m. Amicalola Falls State Park and Lodge, 418 Amicalola Falls Lodge Road, Dawsonville. Individuals $3, families $10. $5 parking. 706-344-1500.

FORSYTH COUNTY The Cumming Playhouse. 101 School St., Cumming. www.playhousecumming. com, 770-781-9178. June 5-22, “Tarzan the Musical.” 8 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays; July 10-Aug. 3, “Oklahoma!” 8 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays; 3 p.m. Sundays; Aug. 6-8, “Spin!” 7 p.m.; Aug. 9, New West Guitar concert, 8 p.m.; Aug. 16-17, Bob Russell Singers and Jazz concert, 8 p.m.; Aug. 23, Stan Estes and Friends concert, 8 p.m.; Aug. 24, “Johnny Cash Now” concert. 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Aug. 29-31: World Championship Rodeo. 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 7 p.m. Sunday. Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Road, Cumming. Adults $15, seniors $12, Children ages 5 to 12 $10, children under 4 years old free. www. cummingfair.net, 770-781-3491.

HABERSHAM COUNTY Friday Night Flicks. June 20, “The Lego Movie.” 7 p.m.; July 18, “E.T.” 7 p.m., movie starts at dusk. Cornelia Depot, 102 Clarkesville St., Cornelia. Free. 706-778-8585, ext. 280, www.explorecornelia.com.

Cornelia Depot concerts. 8 p.m. 102 Clarkesville St., Cornelia. Free. 706-778-8585 ext. 280, bht@corneliageorgia.org, www. explorecornelia.com. May 30, Regulars Band; June 27, Dixie Still; July 25, Joe Hall. June 13-22: “Christmas Belles.” 7:30 p.m. June 13, 14, 19, 20 and 21, 2 p.m. June 15 and 22. Habersham Community Theatre, 1370 Washington St., Clarkesville. 706-839-1315, www.habershamtheater.org. July 31-Aug. 10: “The King and I.” Habersham Community Theatre, 1370 Washington St., Clarkesville. 706-839-1315, www. habershamtheater.org. Aug. 2: Habersham County Back to School Bash. 3-6 p.m. Ruby C. Fulbright Aquatic Center, 120 Paul Franklin Road, Clarkesville. Free. 706-778-8585, ext. 280, 706-754-2220, www.explorecornelia.com.

JACKSON COUNTY

YearOne Braselton Bash Car Show. 3-7 p.m. third Saturdays. 1001 Cherry Drive, Braselton. www.hotrodderschildrenscharity.org, 800-9327663. July 4: Celebrate Braselton Festival. 4-10 p.m. Braselton Park, 115 Harrison St. www. BraseltonFestivals.com. July 11-20: “Annie.” 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays. William Duncan Martin Performing Arts Center, 575 Washington St., Jefferson. $5-$15. www. jeffersoncommunitytheatre.com. July 17: Merlot, Museums and Masterpieces. 7-9 p.m. Crawford W. Long Museum, 28 College St., Jefferson. www.crawfordlong.org, 706-367-5307. Aug. 23: Sunset on the Square Concert Series. 7-10 p.m. Downtown Jefferson. Free. www. mainstreetjefferson.com.

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Summer 2014

LUMPKIN COUNTY Dahlonega First Friday Night Concert Series. 6:30 p.m. first Friday of the month through October. Downtown Dahlonega. www.facebook.com/ DahlonegaFirstFridayConcert, 706-482-2707. Dahlonega Appalachian Jam. 2-5 p.m. every Saturday through Oct. 11. Dahlonega Gold Museum, 1 Public Square, Dahlonega. www.gastateparks. org/DahlonegaGoldMuseum, 706864-2257. Georgia Wine Country Festival. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays, noon to 5 p.m. Sundays in June. Three Sisters Vineyards and Winery, 439 Vineyard Way, Dahlonega. www. threesistersvineyards.com, 706865-9463. Old Car Cruise In. 5-8:30 p.m. first Saturday of every month through October. 25 W. Main St., Dahlonega. Free. 770-843-6477. June 7: The Return concert. 8 p.m. The Holly Theatre, 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega. $25-$32. www. hollytheater.com, 706-864-3759. July 4: Independence Day Car Show. 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Lumpkin County Administration Building and Library complex, East Main Street, Dahlonega. Entrants $20, spectators free. 770 843-6477. July 11-27: Monty Python’s Spamalot. 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays. The Holly Theatre, 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega. Adults $18, children and students $12. www. hollytheater.com, 706-864-3759.

RABUN COUNTY Tallulah Falls Bluegrass on the Square, 7-8:30 p.m. through midNovember. Tallulah Fall Opry on Main Street. Music, food. Free. First Friday Fest: 5:30-8 p.m. Fridays through October. Downtown Clayton. www. downtownclaytonga.org June 6-7: Bar W Rodeo. 8-11 p.m. Rabun Arena, Tiger. Adults $12, ages 6-12 $6, children 5 & under free. Van Canup, 706-781-9880, www.pca.com. June 20-21, 27-29: “Foxfire,” North Georgia Community Players, Dillard. 7-9 p.m. www. ngcommunityplayers.com. June 21: NBHA Horse Show. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Rabun Arena, Tiger. 706-982-0792 June 21: North Georgia Golf Tour Tournament. $55. www. northgagolftour.com. June 21: Rabun Georgia Half Marathon. 7-11 a.m. Sky Valley, Dillard. $20. facebook.com/ runbumtours/events June 28-29: Wateree Cutting Horse Show. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Rabun Arena,

Mayors Park, Ga 76, Young Harris. 706-400-8014, www. robinrobertspromotions.com

UNION COUNTY

SCOTT ROGERS | The Times Tiger. www.nchacutting.com, Judy Boozer at 864-876-6272. June 28: Hambidge 4th Saturday Weaving Demonstration. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Hambidge Center, Bettys Creek Road, Rabun Gap. July 12, 26, Aug. 9: Children’s Heritage Day at Foxfire. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Ages 8 to 18. Demonstrations of blacksmithing, rope-making, folk art, woodworking. Limited to 12. $40 per person, $5 sibling discount. Michelle Bourlet at 706490-3977, foxfire.org. July 17-20: “The Little Mermaid.” 7-9 p.m. North Georgia Community Players. Dillard Playhouse, 892 Franklin St., Dillard. $10 adult, $5 children. www.ngcommunityplayers.com July 19: Annual Clayton Crawl. 6-9 p.m. Downtown Clayton. www. claytoncrawl.org. July 20: Rabun County Music Festival. 4-6 p.m. Rearden Theater, 339 Nacoochee Drive, Rabun Gap. $21. www. rabunmusicfestival.com. Aug. 1: Dillard BBQ & Bluegrass Festival, Georgia State Championship Barbecue Cookoff. Dillard Playhouse, 892 Franklin St., Dillard. $10 per person, 2-day pass $15, ages 12 and younger free. www.dillardbbq.org Aug. 2: North Georgia Golf Tour. Sky Valley Country Club. $75. Aug. 3-4, 17: Rabun County Music Festival, Sentimental Journey Orchestra. 4-6 p.m. Rearden Theater, 339 Nacoochee Drive, Rabun Gap. $21. www. rabunmusicfestival.com. Aug. 16: NBHA Horse Show. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Rabun Arena, Tiger. 706-982-0792

TOWNS COUNTY June 3: Taste of the Southern

Highlands. Wine, food tastings. 6-8 p.m. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Road, Hiawassee. 706-896-4132, ext. 1233 June 6-8: Antique Classic Wooden

Boat Show. Ridges Resort & Marina, Hiawassee. 706-8962262, www.theridgesresort.com June 7-8: The Ridges Landing arts show. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. The Ridges Resort & Marina, 3379 Ga. 76, Hiawassee. 706-400-8014. www. robinrobertspromotions.com June 13-14: Appalachian Wine, Jazz and Art Festival. Noon-7 p.m. Music, wine, food. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Road, Hiawassee. $30 per day, 12 and under free. www. mountainwinefest.com, 706-8964191 June 21: Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association “A Rocking Good Time” benefit auction/gala. 420 W. Main St., Blue Ridge. 706-6322144, www.blueridgearts.net June 24-July 18: Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association, Summer Youth Camp. 420 West Main St., Blue Ridge. 706-6322144, www.blueridgearts.net June 28-July 26: Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association, Community Quilt Exhibit. 420 West Main St., Blue Ridge. www. blueridgearts.net, 706-632-2144 July 4: Fireworks at Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa. 7:30-10 p.m. www.brasstownvalley.com. July 18-26: Georgia Mountain Fair. Georgia Mountain Fairground, 1311 Music Hall Road, Hiawassee. Music, food, arts and crafts, children’s activities. www. georgiamountainfairgrounds.com July 19: Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association, Jennifer Danner, Artist in Residence. 420 W. Main St., Blue Ridge. 706-632-2144, www.blueridgearts.net Aug. 7-9: Georgia Mountain Moonshine Cruize-In. Classic car show. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Road, Hiawassee. www. georgiamountainfairgrounds.com, 706-896-4191, 662-587-9572 Aug. 23-24: Young Harris Art Fest. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday.

May 31-June 1: Spring Arts & Crafts Festival. 10 a.m. Downtown Blairsville. 706-745-5493, www. unioncountyhistory.org June 14-15: Blairsville Scottish Festival & Highland Games. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Meeks Park, 490 Meeks Park Road, Blairsville. Games, food, music, children’s activities. $10 per day, $15 for 2 days, ages 12 and younger free. 706-745-5789, www. blairsvillescottishfestival.org June 22: Run with the Realtors, Summer Sizzler 5K Run/Walk. 7 a.m.-noon. Meeks Park, 490 Meeks Park Road, Blairsville. $25-$35. www.active.com, 706781-3030 June 25: Green Bean Square Dance. 8 p.m. Downtown square, Blairsville. Free. 706-994-4837, www.greenbeanfestival.com June 26: Green Bean Festival. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Farmer’s Market, Civic Center, downtown Blairsville. Arts and crafts, food, contests, children’s activities, music. Free. 706-994-4837, www. greenbeanfestival.com June 29-29: Mountain Fling. Juried arts and crafts show. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. North Georgia Technical College, 121 Meeks Ave., Blairsville. 706896-0932, www.artguildstore.com July 4: Lake Nottely Boat Parade. 11 a.m. Lake Nottely Marina,U.S. 19/129 N., Blairsville. Free. 706745-3638 July 4: Independence Day. 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Vogel State Park, U.S. 19/129 S., 11 miles south of Blairsville. $5. 706-745-2628, www.gastateparks.org July 4: Independence Day Fireworks. 9:30 p.m. Meeks Park, Blairsville. Free. 706-7455789, 877-745-5789. www. VisitBlairsvilleGA.com July 19-20: Butternut Creek Festival. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Meeks Park, 11 Pool Lane, Blairsville. Juried arts and crafts show, food. Free. www.butternutcreekfestival. com, 706-781-1221 July 26: Green Bean Festival 5K Run/Walk. 8:30 a.m. 148 Old Smokey Road, Blairsville. 706-994-4837, www. greenbeanfestival.com Aug. 30-31: Mountain Heritage Festival. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mountain Life Museum, 25 School St., Blairsville. Mountain arts/crafts, music, activities, demonstrations, children’s activities, farm animals. Free. 706-745-5493, www. unioncountyhistory.org

The Times, Gainesville, Georgia | Summer 2014

WHITE COUNTY Youth Fishing Days at Buck Shoals. 8 a.m. to noon every third Saturday of the month through September. Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trail, Helen. $5 parking. 706878-3087 “Today, Tomorrow & Always” gallery exhibit. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays, 1-5 p.m. Sundays. Sautee Nacoochee Center, 283 Ga. 255, Sautee Nacoochee. 706-878-3300. Saturday Evening Concert Series. 8 p.m. Saturdays from May 24 to mid-November. Unicoi State Park and Lodge, 1788 Ga. 356, Helen. $5 parking. 1-800-573-9659 ext. 305. Mommy and Me at the Zoo and Zoo Crafts. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every second Tuesday of the month. North Georgia Zoo & Petting Farm, 2912 Paradise Valley Road, Cleveland. Discounted admittance. 706-348-7279. Contra Dance. 7:30-9:30 p.m. every first and third Tuesday of the month. Sautee Nacoochee Center, 283 Ga. 255, Sautee Nacoochee. Adults $4, free for children under 12 years old. www.snca.org, 706-878-3300. May 31: The Elftones with Cis Hinkle contra dance. 7:30-11 p.m. Sautee Nacoochee Center, 283 Ga. 255, Sautee Nacoochee. Adults $9, SNCA member $7, students $5. www.snca.org, 706-878-3300. June 13-July 27: “Dressed for the Occasion” art exhibit. Sautee Nacoochee Center, 283 Ga. 255, Sautee Nacoochee. www.snca.org, 706-878-3300. June 14: Kids Day at the Park. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trail, Helen. 706-878-3087. June 14: Shriner’s Parade. 2-3:30 p.m. Downtown Helen. June 26 to Aug. 23: “50 Shades of Summer” art exhibit. Helen Arts & Heritage Center, 25 Chattahoochee Strasse, Helen. www. helenarts.org, 706-878-3933. June 28: Contraforce contra dance. 7:30-11 p.m. Sautee Nacoochee Center, 283 Ga. 255, Sautee Nacoochee. Adults $9, SNCA member $7, students $5. www.snca.org, 706-878-3300. July 12: North Georgia Zoo Sunset Tour. 7-9 p.m. North Georgia Zoo & Petting Farm, 2912 Paradise Valley Road, Cleveland. 706348-7279. July 25-26: Show and Shine for Cystic Fibrosis Open Car Show. 5-7 p.m. July 25, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. July 26. 639 Edelweiss Strasse, Helen. All proceeds will be donated to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. 706-7952264, 706-296-6896. July 26-27: Folk Life Festival. All day. Unicoi State Park, 1788 Ga. 356, Helen. 706-8782201. Aug 1 to Sept. 7: “Out of the Earth and Through the Fire” art exhibit. Sautee Nacoochee Center, 283 Ga. 255, Sautee Nacoochee. www.snca.org, 706-878-3300. Aug. 14-17: Destination Helen Bike Rally. All day. Helen. www.destinationhelen.com, 706878-0076. Aug. 23: Gold Fever and Golden Memories. 9 a.m. to noon. Smithgall Woods State Park, 61 Tsalaki Trail, Helen. Register in advance. 706-878-3087. Aug. 23: Garlicfest. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Loganberry Heritage Farm, 2660

Adair Mill Road, Cleveland. www. loganberryheritagefarm.com, 706-348-6068. Aug. 28 to Oct. 18: Judged Art Competition exhibit. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Helen Arts & Heritage Center, 25 Chattahoochee Strasse, Helen. www.helenarts.org, 706-878-3933. Aug. 30: CrushFest. All day. Yonah Mountain Vineyards, 2454 Ga. 17, Sautee Nacoochee. www.yonahmountainvineyards.com, 706878-5522. Aug. 31: North Georgia Zoo Sunset Tour. 7-9 p.m. North Georgia Zoo & Petting Farm, 2912 Paradise Valley Road, Cleveland. 706348-7279.

MOUNTAINS,ETC.

May 25: Brasstown Concert Association, Young Artists Concert. 2:30-4 p.m. Keith

19 House, John C. Campbell Folk School, Brasstown, N.C. Adults $18, students $10. 828-389-4210 June 12: 75th anniversary of Ty Cobb being among first inductees in baseball’s Hall of Fame. Ty Cobb Museum, 461 Cook St., Royston. “Ty Cobb Night” at Turner Field June 14. 706-245-1825, sharri.hobbs@ tycobbhealthcare.com. $5 adults, $4 seniors, $3 students. June 28: Annual Gala & Benefit Auction. John C. Campbell Folk School. 5-8 p.m. John C Campbell Folk School, Brasstown, N.C. Arts and crafts, food, music. $25. 828837-2775, www.folkschool.org

122 Years

GAINESVILLE CITY SCHOOLS 1892_2014 Academics - Arts - Athletics - Artisans - Alumni

Points of Pride 2013-2014 Centennial Arts Academy Helen Ruffin Reading State Championship Award Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl State Writing Championship Award Phillip Wright Award: Sharon Woodall Enota Multiple Intelligences Academy Georgia Department of Education State Award “Family Friendly School” Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl District 3rd Place Daughters of the American Revolution Awards: 4 Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Arbor Day Awards: 4 Fair Street IB World School Team Smile Dental Health Grant Clipper Petroleum Book Grant Classroom Champions Olympic Partnership Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl District 2nd Place J.C. Penney Art in the Classroom Grant William Campbell: 2014 Georgia Distinguished Principal Gainesville Exploration Academy Georgia Department of Education “High Progress School” 2013 Reading is Fundamental National Award: Sonya Le and Gilberto Agripino 21st Century Community Learning Center Grant New Holland Knowledge Academy Georgia Department of Education High Progress School Cargill Grant for Science Education Dollar General Literacy Grant Gainesville Middle School Duke Talent Identification Program: 7 Qualifiers Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl 3rd Place Disrict Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl Video Award Drug Free Coalition Video Award Winner: 3 Teams Football 8th Grade Undefeated Season Hall County Baseball Championship Hall County Boys Track Championship Boys Soccer Undefeated Season Girls Cross Country: 4th Place State Hall County Wrestling Championships: 4 Wood’s Mill Academy Georgia Appalachian Center for Higher Education State Award: Shyderica Young Goodwill Youth Employment Services Program Kubota- Wood’s Mill-Goodwill Employment Partnership Gainesville Park and Recreation-Wood’s Mill Water Improvement Project Wilshire Park Northeast Georgia History Center Exhibit May 2014

Gainesville High School Georgia Department of Education Advanced Placement Award for STEM Achievement National Merit Commendations: Gabrielle Diaz, Andrew Kelley, Helly Patel STAR Student: Helly Patel STAR Teacher: Andy Miller Region 8-AAAAA Literary Team Championship Gabrielle Diaz- State Championship in Essay Lacrisia Larkin Georgia Thespian Leadership Award Aquilat King- Georgia Commission on the Holocaust Music State Award Health Occupations Students of American: 13 Regional Awards and State Qualifiers 5 Qualifying Areas for National Competition Colin Monagham State Swimming Championship Breastroke Runner-Up in Individual Medley Wrestling: Six State Championship Qualifiers FCLLA Six Region Individual Championship Awards; 6 State Medalist Awards, National Competition in July 2014 Boys Track and Field: Hall County Championship Boys Track and Field: Colton Quinones- State Championship Discus Throw Girls Soccer Region 8-AAAAA Runner- Up- State Quarterfinals Boys Soccer Region 8-AAAAA Runner Up- State Semifinals Region 8 AAAAA Football “Player of the Year” Deshaun Watson Region 8 AAAAA Football Defensive “Player of the Year” Devin Stringer Region 8 AAAAA Football “Coach of the Year” Bruce Miller State Semifinals and Final Four Championship Boys Baseball Region 8 AAAAA Championship State Championship Final Four Girls and Boys Golf Region 8 AAAAA Championship Girls State Championship Runner-Up Boys State Championship 3rd Place