Combine History and Faith (Apalachicola)

Historic Home & Garden Tour an Annual Spring Rite

Apalachicola's 17th annual Historic Home & Garden Tour May 1-2, will feature more than a dozen distinctive historic homes, gardens, inns, churches and businesses. The tour is an annual event for Trinity Episcopal Church, one of the state's oldest churches. The tour is expected to attract more than 1,000 visitors.

This year's event will begin Friday evening, May 1, at Trinity Episcopal Church, with an Evensong Service at 5:30 p.m. The service is followed at 6:30 p.m. by a free lecture by Mark Tarmey, a preservation architect, who will present a talk entitled "The Economic Benefits of Historic Preservation". Tarmey is President of the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation.

Registration for the tour begins at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 2, 2009 at Trinity Church. Admission the day of the tour is $20; advance tickets are $15. Tickets may be purchased before May 2 by calling Trinity Church (850) 653-9550, or the Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce (850) 653-9419. A gourmet lunch will be available for $10. On the day of the tour ticket holders will receive a brochure which contains brief histories of the homes and a map.

The featured home for this year's tour will be the former home of world-renowned botanist Dr. Alvin Wentworth Chapman, author of Flora of the Southern United States. 2009 commemorates the 200th anniversary of his birth. The Chapman home was recently purchased by Dr. Helen Tudor of New York City. Renovation of the property is underway with plans to devote the first floor to a museum.

In addition to the Chapman house, more than a dozen historic homes and other buildings will be included on the tour. Apalachicola boasts more than 200 residences built in the nineteenth century and more than 100 erected from 1900-1910. In the three decades preceding the Civil War, Apalachicola ranked as the third busiest cotton port on the Gulf Coast behind only Mobile and New Orleans. The prosperity represented by many of the homes on tour is a direct result of this cotton trade.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation named Apalachicola one of America's "Dozen Distinctive Destinations" in 2008. The Tour is funded, in part, through the Franklin County Tourist Development Council. For more information on additional historic landmarks and visitor sites throughout Franklin County, please visit www.anaturalescape.com.
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Plein Air Painters to Capture Forgotten Coast on Canvas (Florida)

More than 20 nationally acclaimed artists will gather on Florida's Forgotten Coast in early May to participate in the 4th annual Great Plein Air Paint Out, May 7-17, 2009. Painters will set up their easels and pull out their brushes to document the landscape and culture of this last vestige of authentic "Old Florida" - a sparsely developed stretch between Mexico Beach and Alligator Point.

The public is invited to visit the exhibits and attend many of the special public events that will occur throughout the 10 day Paint-out.

Exhibits

There will be four exhibits that operate throughout the event.

The Wetroom Exhibit will consist of art, fresh off of the easel, which arrives daily at the Historic Cotton Warehouse on the waterfront in downtown Apalachicola. The "wet room" will be open from 11am-5pm for the viewing and purchase of these masterfully produced paintings. Visit each day to experience the excitement as the event unfolds.

Available Works Exhibit (Opening May 10) will feature paintings created during previous Plein Air paint-outs. Art viewing and sales will be open daily from 12-5 pm in the WindMark Village Center. These works have grown increasingly popular and stimulate discussion of how the area has changed since the event first began.

St. Joe Collection (Opening May 10) Presented at SummerCamp exhibiting over 40 plein air paintings purchased from the last three years of Forgotten Coast events. View the Collection daily between 12-5pm.

Plein Air Classic Exhibit. Private collectors from the region have generously loaned their favorite paintings to present the Plein Air Classics Exhibit. The Gulf County Tourist Development Council will host the exhibit daily, May 11-15, from 9 am to 5 pm at the Gulf County Welcome Center, overlooking the bay in Port St. Joe.

Public Events

Quickdraw. Artists, amateurs and professionals, are invited to celebrate the Plein Air tradition by gathering on Reid Avenue in downtown Port St. Joe to participate in the Forgotten Coast Quickdraw on May 9. The excitement begins with artists taking two hours, beginning at 10 am, to paint the beauty of Port St. Joe. At noon the sidewalk will be lined with easels displaying the fruits of the morning's work. Awards will be presented and art will be sold off the easels. There will also be music, shopping, and a creative art project for kids. The Quickdraw is presented by the Port St. Joe Redevelopment Agency, the Gulf County Chamber of Commerce, and the Forgotten Coast Cultural Coalition. Applications and contest rules are available at www.pleinairfl.com or at the Port St. Joe Redevelopment Agency. For more information, contact Lorinda Gingell at 850/229-6899.

Student Art Day. Highly sought after for their instructional skills, the participating Plein Air artists will devote Tuesday morning, May 12, to Student Art Day. Students from local schools will receive one-on-one mentoring to create a plein air work. This event will take place 10 am-12 noon in Maddox Park in Port St. Joe and will be followed by a community luncheon at the Gulf County Welcome Center, hosted by the Port St. Joe Lions Club and the Junior Service League. The students' completed paintings will be displayed in the Wetroom Exhibit through the duration of the event

Free Artist Demonstrations. Art enthusiasts are encouraged to attend a series of free artist demonstrations and receptions throughout the 10 days. Three historic lighthouses will be featured during the series to include Cape San Blas on Sunday, May 10, Carrabelle's Crooked River on Monday, May 11, and the St George Island Light on Thursday, May 14. Artists will be in Mexico Beach on Wednesday, May 13, in Port St. Joe on May 8, at the Salt Air Farmer's Market in Port St. Joe on Saturday, May 16, at the WindMark Village Center on May 16, and on Apalachicola's working waterfront on May 8, 9, 16 and 17. For a complete schedule and details visit www.pleinairfl.com

Art as a Window. This panel discussion will explore the way history, local culture, and the artist interact, will feature noted art historian Mallory O'Connor, Voices of the Apalachicola author Faith Eidse, and plein air artist Mitch Kolbe. The program will be held in the loft of the Historic Cotton Warehouse above the Wetroom on Friday, May 15, from 2-4 pm. Funded by the Florida Humanities Council and the National Endowment for the Arts, the program is free and open to the public.

Patron's Party. Artists will be asked to reserve their very best work to present at the Patrons' Party on Saturday evening, May 16, from 6:30-10:30 pm. This special event, held in the Wetroom in Apalachicola, will include delicious food, live music, and the opportunity to purchase the best art from the paint-out. Tickets are $75 per couple or $40 each.

Art in the Afternoon. The final segment, Art In The Afternoon, is a free, family-oriented celebration of the Plein Air event. Children will enjoy fine arts projects, area music students will perform, and artists will paint on-site from 11am-4pm on Sunday, May 17. The Wetroom will extend into the street and overlook Riverfront Park in Apalachicola. This will be the last chance to purchase plein air art, mingle with the artists, and ask them to personalize a message on purchased paintings.

Dual Opening Receptions will kick-off the event on Friday, May 8, from 6-8 pm at the WindMark Village Center in the East and at SummerCamp in the West. The "meet-and-greets" with plein air artists, patrons and event organizers are free and open to the public. The WindMark reception will provide a preview of available works from previous paint-outs and the SummerCamp affair will present the St. Joe Collection.

The artists will frame the initial two days of paintings to be hung for the Wetroom Reveal, Saturday evening, May 9, from 6-8 pm in the Historic Cotton Warehouse in Apalachicola. This opening of the "wetroom" will be the first opportunity to purchase the 2009 paintings. Tickets are $15 and include hors d'oeuvres, wine, and music.

The "great paint-out" is a 10-day event coordinated by the Forgotten Coast Cultural Coalition, a non-profit organization established to produce regional multi-community cultural events that improve the quality of life for the coastal area. The communities of Mexico Beach, WindMark Beach, Port St. Joe, Cape San Blas, Indian Pass, Apalachicola, Eastpoint, St. George Island, Carrabelle, SummerCamp and Alligator Point have joined forces to produce the most impressive art event seen along the coast. Funding from both the Gulf and Franklin County Tourist Development Councils has been used to promote the event to a national market aiming to attract art enthusiasts and collectors. "The crème de la crème of artists will be painting along the Forgotten Coast and our local residents and visitors will get the first chance to purchase these paintings that capture and preserve what we all love about this area", said Founder Richard Carrell.

Artists participating in this year's event include Frank Bruckmann, New Haven, CT; Luke Buck, Niveah, IN; Gene Costanza, Eugene, OR; Katie Cundiff, Sarasota, FL; Charles Dickinson, St. Augustine, FL; Cynthia Edmonds, Winter Park, FL; Mary Erickson, Marshville, NC; Sally Evans, Winter Park, FL; Harold Frontz, Lexington, NC; Tracey Frugoli, Morton, IL; Richard Gallego, Palmdale, CA; James Hempel, Milwaukee, WI; Allison Hill, Mohegan Island, ME; Mitch Kolbe, Palm Harbor, FL; Morgan Samuel Price, Altamonte Springs, FL; Lori Putnam, Nashville, TN; James Richards, Athens, GA; Tom Sadler, Orlando, FL; Diane Scott, Hingham, MA; Robert Simone, St. Petersburg, FL; and Theodore Tihansky, Monhegan Island, ME.

Plein Air (pronounced pleyn air) comes from the French term "en plein air," meaning "in the open air." It is a style of creating art in the moment outside, primarily (but not necessarily) from nature. Although this type of art is often thought of as landscape painting, many other subjects can be depicted, including still life, figures, portraits and architecture. A true plein air painting is done on location, capturing the atmosphere and establishing a sense of place. Many artists agree this is the true test of skill, as it requires complete confidence in placement of color and brushwork in a short amount of time. The work is valued for its sense of spontaneity and for the skill artists develop at quickly and deftly capturing the essence of light or shadow on a subject. Plein air art is not created in a deliberate or planned manner, it is fresh and uncontrived, created from life as it happens.

The public is invited, encouraged even, to locate, stop and watch the painters throughout the week. To view the entire schedule of events, enter the Quickdraw contest, or purchase tickets, visit the website, www.pleinairfl.com or call 1/800/378-8419. The 2009 Plein Air Paint Out is funded, in part, through the Franklin County Tourist Development Council. To learn more about arts and art related events in Franklin County, please visit www.anaturalescape.com
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Where's Waddle?

T2F Note: Our staff has visited the Charleston Aquarium within the last couple of years. We found it to be an enjoyable way to spend a few hours. Of interest to our group from Fayette County, Georgia, was the look at the ACE basin type of wildlife. For some reason, we just don't have the exchange from salt to fresh water pools near Atlanta! We'll be sure to check out this newest attraction soon. In the meantime, the Charleston area receives our coveted "Fayette Front Page Day Tripper Award."

Checking out historic downtown Charleston, walking the Ravenel Bridge, or picking up fish at Earthfare. Sounds like every day activities for Charleston residents and the same goes for the city's newest addition, Waddle. Waddle, the lead penguin of the South Carolina Aquarium's Penguin Planet exhibit has been busy exploring Charleston since his arrival from San Diego in late February. Where is Waddle now?

Quite the computer-savvy penguin, Waddle has posted photos of his adventures on his website, WheresWaddle.com. He is even soliciting suggestions from the community on where he should head next. Keep up with Waddle online at WheresWaddle.com, suggest his next adventure, become friends with him on facebook or follow him on twitter. Join in penguin mania by placing a WheresWaddle.com car decal your car! (Available at upcoming South Carolina Aquarium events).

Opening Saturday, March 21, 2009, Penguin Planet will feature a Magellanic penguin habitat and 550 square feet of gallery space. Located on the Aquarium's first floor, guests will have the opportunity to see these aquatic flightless birds firsthand through the exhibit's 10 foot wide window allowing for underwater viewing. Included in general admission, Penguin Planet will delight and educate visitors through its awe-inspiring Magellanic penguins, children's interactive learning games, educational exhibits on climate change effects in South Carolina and of course - daily programs starring the penguins!

Penguin Planet grand opening festivities include special member only previews and a grand opening celebration on Saturday, March 21, 2009. The experience will be a temporary exhibit, visiting through March 2010. Only at the Aquarium for one year, you will not want to miss Penguin Planet!

An accredited institution by the Association of Zoo's and Aquarium's (AZA), the South Carolina Aquarium's Penguin Planet exhibit has approval from the AZA Penguin Taxon advisory group. AZA is the leading accrediting organization for zoos and aquariums and accredits only those institutions that have achieved meticulous standards for animal health, education, wildlife conservation and science. With approximately 2,400 animal exhibitors licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture, only 10% of the institutions are accredited.

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St. George Island and Franklin County FL

St. George Island Chili Cookoff Heats Up For Spring Visitors

The 27th annual St. George Island Charity Chili Cookoff fires up the burners on March 7 to herald in what some consider the official beginning of Spring on St. George Island. If you love chili, and who doesn't? you can eat your fill on Saturday as the competition takes place. www.seestgeorgeisland.com.

Click here for a complete list of accommodations on the island and beyond for Chili Cookoff weekend.

Local Military Exhibits Rank High For Veteran Visitors
Franklin County honors veterans this Spring with two special exhibits.

Carrabelle Honors WWII Veterans

Carrabelle pays tribute to America's veterans this month when the Camp Gordon Johnston Association hosts its annual Camp Gordon Johnston Days March 13-15. The event is a reunion of military veterans who trained for WWII at Camp Gordon Johnston, a training base so large it included St. James Island (excluding Carrabelle), Dog Island, and St. George Island. Click here to see a video of the event-filled weekend. Events include a Friday social mixer, a parade and an evening dinner dance, military exhibits, re-enactments and tours of the former Camp Gordon Johnston Base camp. more

Wall That Heals Coming To Apalachicola

From April 30 - May 3, Apalachicola will host the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF) Traveling "Wall That Heals" Memorial and Museum. The exhibit features a half-scale replica of the Memorial and a museum that travels to communities throughout America.

The Wall That Heals exhibit is sponsored by the Three Servicemen Statue South (TSS) group and is coming to Apalachicola largely because of another important Veteran's memorial located there. Apalachicola is the only City in the Country to house a replica of the Three Servicemen Statue detail, commemorating the service of Veterans during the Vietnam era. more

Get Out of the House and Into The Wild This Spring

The St. Vincent Island National Wildlife Refuge will host an Open House on Saturday March 21 with wildlife exhibits, nature walks, history presentations, bird tours and even a kids' mini-bushcamp. This year's event, sponsored by the Supporters of St. Vincent NWR, Inc. is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on St. Vincent Island which is located just offshore at the western-most boundary of the Franklin-Gulf County line.

The highlight of this popular annual event is the island nature tour which is guided by local nature enthusiasts and which is limited to the first 75 people to sign-up. Visitors can sign up for the tours once they arrive on the island. This year's event will also feature a new Kids mini bushcraft activity designed for childen ages 8-12. The Bushcraft will feature activities designed to teach kids basic wilderness safety and simple survival skills. more

March Events

March 5, 2009 Dixie Theatre - Florida's "Florida's Delicious History: A Gastronomic Journey Through Modern Florida". Food scholar Andrew Huse offers a look back through modern Florida's cuisine. www.dixietheatre.com 850-653-3200

March 7 - St. George Island Chili Cookoff
More than 60 contestants compete in the largest regional chili cookoff in the nation. Contestants vie for a spot in the National Chili Cookoff. All proceeds benefit the St. George Island Volunteer Fire Department. 8am 5K run Auction 11am-3pm. www.stgeorgeislandchili.com, and www.seestgeorgeisland.com

March 13-15 - Camp Gordon Johnston Days A fun-for-the-whole-family parade pays tribute to the brave men and women who trained at Camp Gordon Johnston just east of Carrabelle. All sorts of family activities all weekend long. The Camp Gordon Johnston Museum contains many authentic relics from WWII and displays the area's rich history. www.campgordonjohnston.com

Click here for expanded list of events and activities.

Looking Ahead

April 4- Cape St. George Light Dedication, St. George Island. 10 a.m. dedication ceremony followed by free climbing at the lighthouse and celebration in the afternoon. Lighthouses are big in Florida - April 25 is the state's official Florida Lighthouse Day. www.seestgeorgeisland.com.

April 4 - Art Walk & Wine Festival, Downtown Apalachicola www.apalachicolabay.org
April 25-26 11th Historic Apalachicola Antique & Classic Boat Show Downtown Apalachicola. Antique boats and antique cars. www.apalachicolabay.org
April 25 - Carrabelle Riverfront Festival. Annual celebration along the riverfront with food, music and exhibits. www.carrabellechamber.org
April 30 - May 3 - VVMF Traveling Wall That Heals Exhibit and Museum, Veterans Park, Apalachicola. Half-scale replica of the Memorial, museum and information center. www.vvmf.org www.apalachicolabay.org.
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Wyndham Peachtree Announces Valentine's Day in Atlanta Getaway

T2F Note: Sometimes the sweetest trip of all doesn't involve leaving Fayette County. We give this romantic getaway the coveted Fayette Front Page Day Tripper Award.

The Wyndham Peachtree Conference Center yesterday announced its "Sweet Escape" package designed for guests planning to spend Valentine's Day in Atlanta or the surrounding area. The Sweet Escape package includes upscale deluxe accommodations for two adults, one chilled bottle of Domaine Chandon champagne and full breakfast buffet in either the hotel's Terrace Restaurant or room service.

The Terrace Restaurant offers buffet as well as à la carte dining options for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Live entertainment and cocktails also are available at the Wynners Lounge. To enhance this package, guests may also schedule a tee time at the adjacent Flatcreek Golf Club.

The Wyndham Peachtree Conference Center offers indoor and outdoor heated pools, whirlpool spa, jogging trails and fitness center and is 30 minutes from downtown Atlanta,
the Georgia Aquarium, Stone Mountain and other romantic attractions.

For more information about the Sweet Escape package and planning a Valentine's Day in Atlanta, call (770) 487-2000 or visit: http://www.wyndham.com/specialoffers/programs/details/sweetescape.wnt. For more information about the Wyndham Peachtree Conference Center and visit: http://www.WyndhamPeachtree.com.

Packages are subject to availability and other restrictions. Taxes and gratuities are not included in the package price.

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Air Force Works Aggressively to Reduce Bird Strikes

As an ongoing investigation continues on a bird strike that caused a passenger jet's engines to fail last week after takeoff from New York's LaGuardia Airport, Air Force safety officials said they're well-versed on the dangers of bird strikes and aggressively are working to prevent them.

National Transportation Safety Board officials confirmed initial indications that U.S. Airways flight 1549 struck a flock of birds, which were sucked into the engines and caused them to fail. The pilot, former Air Force pilot Chesley B. "Sully" Sullenberger III, successfully landed the plane in New York's Hudson River and is credited with saving all 155 people on board.

The incident brought public focus to a problem the Air Force, along with the airline industry, has long struggled to overcome.

Last year alone, the Air Force experienced more than 4,000 bird strikes, Eugene LeBoeuf, chief of the Air Force's Bird/Wildlife Aircraft Strike Hazard, or BASH, program at Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M., told American Forces Press Service.

Fortunately, none of those bird strikes was classified as a "Class A" accident, one that results in a death or more than $1 million in damages, LeBoeuf said. But collectively, they cost the Air Force an estimated $35 million.

Bird strikes are on the rise, he said, and present a serious safety issue. The crash of an E-3B Airborne Warning and Control System plane in 1995 after takeoff from Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, painfully drove that point home. All 24 crew members died when the plane struck a flock of Canada geese just after takeoff.

"When you have a bird strike, it's like throwing a rock into the engine," said Air Force Staff Sgt. Paul White, airfield operations supervisor at Andrews Air Force Base, Md. "It stops the turbine from spinning, and that can be catastrophic."

The BASH program works to avert accidents like the one at Elmendorf and last week's incident in New York. Based on a system of "integrated pest management," it aims to keep air bases, airfields and the air space and ground in and around them free of birds and wildlife that can hamper aircraft operations, LeBoeuf explained.

That's a challenge, he said, with more Canada geese taking up permanent residence in the United States, a burgeoning snow goose population and a comeback for the pelican population after DDT and other insecticides were banned.

But birds aren't the only problem, LeBoeuf said. He's seen it all: deer, coyotes, wild pigs and even alligators finding their way onto Air Force flightlines. "They're mobile speed bumps, and aircraft don't take kindly to them," he said.

Step one in the BASH program is "habitat alteration," which LeBoeuf defined as making airfields as uninviting as possible. Anything that might serve as a perch is removed, denying birds an elevated place to roost. Potential perches that can't be removed get spikes driven into them.

Meanwhile, low spots in the land where birds can hide or seek water that collects are filled in.

Dan Vredenburgh, a contractor who oversees Andrews Air Force Base's BASH program, follows the Air Force protocol of ensuring grass around the airfield is maintained between 7 and 14 inches. That's too short for ground birds to nest in, but too long for them to feel safe feeding in, he explained.

"These are the benign approaches, but if they don't work, we turn to more active techniques," LeBoeuf said. In a word, he defined that as "harassment."

Vredenburgh, for example, has a whole list of tricks to make Andrews unwelcoming to seagulls, blackbirds, starlings, turkey vultures, cowbirds, ducks and geese that frequent the region.

He fires off pyrotechnics and propane cannons as needed to scare birds from the 4,320-acre base. One of his most effective tools is Bree, a two-tone border collie that chases away birds or other wildlife that might be tempted to take up residence. Vrendenburg and Bree patrol the base regularly, and he sets her loose when he discovers birds roosting.

"When she takes off, they leave in a hurry," Vrendenburgh said. "After a couple of times, they probably won't come back."

Other bases use different techniques. The Royal Air Force base at Mildenhall in England, for example, relies on a Moroccan lanner hawk named Goldie to ward off unwanted birds. At Manas Air Base in Kyrgyzstan, a luger falcon named Mustang helps to keep unwanted birds at bay.

But no preventive measure will keep birds and other wildlife away indefinitely, LeBoeuf said. So as a last resort, BASH officials get the permits required to shoot, trap or otherwise remove them from the area.

At Andrews -- home of the 316th Wing as well as the 89th Airlift Wing that flies Air Force One and other aircraft in support of the president, vice president and senior U.S. leaders -- these measures are helping to reduce bird strikes.

Andrews reported 20 bird strikes last year, down from 30 in fiscal 2007 and an average of about 34 a year in past years, Vredenburgh said. Nearly all involved small birds, and none inflicted major aircraft damage or forced an emergency landing.

"We understand the importance of what we do, and believe we're helping reduce the problem through our efforts," he said.

"There's no question that the BASH program is making a difference," LeBoeuf said. "It saves lives and aircraft and allows us to maintain our mission. It's a very important program."
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
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National Mediation Board Upholds Delta Flight Attendants’ Decision To Reject Union Representation

Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) has been notified by the National Mediation Board (NMB) that its flight attendants’ decision to reject union representation will be upheld. The Board dismissed the Association of Flight Attendants’ allegations of interference in the May 2008 representation election at Delta, stating that the union’s claims either “are unsubstantiated…”, ”do not rise to the level of interference under clear, longstanding Board precedent”, or ”constitute isolated incidents…that do not amount to the kind of systematic, pervasive conduct that would have tainted laboratory conditions.”

Delta Senior Vice President of In-Flight Service Joanne Smith issued the following statement today in response to the NMB’s decision:

“Delta has always believed that the AFA’s allegations of interference were unfounded. Armed with the facts and the understanding that this decision had a significant impact on their careers, our flight attendants spoke decisively about their preference for maintaining Delta’s unique culture. We are pleased that the NMB has upheld our flight attendants’ decision. It’s time now to turn our attention to the exciting opportunity ahead of us – creating a premier global airline that will allow our people to share in the airline’s success and provide a legendary travel experience for our customers.”

Delta Air Lines operates service to more worldwide destinations than any airline with Delta and Delta Connection flights to 287 destinations in 58 countries. Delta has added more international capacity than any major U.S. airline during the last two years and is the leader across the Atlantic with flights to 42 trans-Atlantic markets. To Latin America and the Caribbean, Delta offers 315 weekly flights to 43 destinations. Delta's marketing alliances also allow customers to earn and redeem SkyMiles on more than 16,000 flights offered by SkyTeam and other partners. Delta is a founding member of SkyTeam, a global airline alliance that provides customers with extensive worldwide destinations, flights and services. Including its SkyTeam and worldwide codeshare partners, Delta offers flights to 500 worldwide destinations in 105 countries. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes, check bags and flight status at delta.com.
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Cotton Pickin' Fair Scheduled for Oct. 4 & 5

The 69th edition of The Cotton Pickin’ Fair
Gay, GA

Three hundred skilled artisans feature Art, Antiques & Crafts in a 1910 era farm venue. A unique shopping and entertainment experience for the entire family. Delicious southern foods are baked, fried, boiled, and barbequed on site and music, folk dancing, story telling, and puppetry arts delight both young and old throughout the each day.

8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Saturday and Sunday; Admission: $5 Adults, $3 Children (4-12). Contact: www.cpfair.org for directions and a preview of our festival or call (706) 538-6814. Sponsored by The 1911 Society, Ltd., a Georgia Non-profit Corporation supporting Sustainable Rural Development Agri-Tourism.

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AirTran Airways Honors Legendary Georgia Radio Announcer Larry Munson for 43 Great Seasons with New Sale Fares

PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:AAI) , today honored legendary Georgia sports announcer Larry Munson by launching a sale for travel between Atlanta and 43 of the airline's other destinations. In recognition of Munson's upcoming birthday at age 86 and after having announced his retirement earlier this week after 43 seasons of calling football at Georgia, AirTran Airways offers fares to 43 cities for only $86* one-way. Travelers may purchase these sale fares at http://www.airtran.com/ or via AirTran Airways' reservations system at 1-800-AIR-TRAN. For Spanish, call 1-877-581-9842.

The special fares are available for purchase through September 27, 2008, and are good for travel through November 19, 2008. Fares are valid for travel on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Like all AirTran Airways fares, prices included in this sale are available for one-way travel and do not require a roundtrip purchase or an overnight stay.

Following is a sample of the one-way sale fares. All fares require a 10-day advance purchase and are valid in either direction:

Sample Fares:

Atlanta - Akron/Canton $86
Atlanta - Baltimore/Washington (BWI) $86
Atlanta - Boston $86
Atlanta - Buffalo/Niagara $86
Atlanta - Charleston $86
Atlanta - Charlotte $86
Atlanta - Chicago (Midway) $86
Atlanta - Dallas/Ft. Worth $86
Atlanta - Dayton $86
Atlanta - Ft. Lauderdale $86
Atlanta - Ft. Myers $86
Atlanta - Houston (Hobby) $86
Atlanta - Jacksonville $86
Atlanta - Kansas City $86
Atlanta - Memphis $86
Atlanta - Miami $86
Atlanta - Milwaukee $86
Atlanta - Minneapolis/St. Paul $86
Atlanta - Newport News $86
Atlanta - New Orleans $86
Atlanta - New York (LaGuardia) $86
Atlanta - Orlando $86
Atlanta - Philadelphia $86
Atlanta - Raleigh/Durham $86
Atlanta - San Antonio $86
Atlanta - St. Louis $86
Atlanta - Tampa $86
Atlanta - Washington DC
(Dulles or Reagan National) $86
Atlanta - West Palm Beach $86
Atlanta - White Plains (Westchester) $86

AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:AAI) , a Fortune 1000 company, is ranked number one in the 2008 Airline Quality Rating study. The airline offers coast-to-coast flights, North America's newest all-Boeing fleet, friendly service and Business Class and complimentary XM Satellite Radio on every flight. To book a flight, visit http://www.airtran.com/.

*All fares are one-way. All fares are non-refundable and a $75 fee per person applies to any change made after purchase, plus any applicable increase in airfare. One bag per person may be checked free of charge, and a 2nd bag may be checked for a fee of up to $25 per person. Reservations may be obtained or changed through an AirTran Airways Telephone Reservations Center for an additional $15 per person. Ten-day advance purchase required. Sale fares are valid for travel on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Seats are limited, subject to availability, and may not be available on all flights. Tickets must be purchased by September 27, 2008. Sale fares are valid for travel through November 19, 2008. Service to/from Savannah/Hilton Head ends October 27, 2008. Fares, routes, and schedules are subject to change without notice. Fares do not include per-segment tax of $3.50. A segment is defined as one takeoff and one landing. The September 11th security fee of up to $10 is not included. Airport Passenger Facility Charges of up to $18 are not included. Fares to/from Puerto Rico do not include additional government taxes of up to $30.80.

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PEANUTS™ the Great Pumpkin Patch Express, Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

PEANUTS™ The Great Pumpkin Patch Express returns to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad for 2008. As the leaves are changing in October and pumpkins are ready to be carved, Charlie Brown, Lucy, and Snoopy make a visit to the GSMR Pumpkin Patch beginning October 10, 2008. The excursions, which are themed after Charles M. Schulz’s classic story “It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown,” will be departing from the Bryson City Depot October 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25 & 26. Friday departure time will be at 3:00pm. On Saturdays and Sundays departure will be at 1:00pm and 5:00pm.

Guests will hear a narration of Schulz’s “It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” as the train travels to the Pumpkin Patch. Upon arrival, passengers will be greeted and have a photo opportunity with Charlie Brown, Lucy and Snoopy. Activities to enjoy at The Great Pumpkin Patch include: campfire marshmallows, a coloring station, temporary tattoos, trick or treating, petting zoo and a bouncy train. The children can also navigate through a giant hay bale maze. Other activities include: hay rides, bobbing for apples, apple cider or apple juice, and treats. There will be plenty of PEANUTS™ merchandise at the Bryson City Depot! Each child will also select their own small pumpkin from The Great Pumpkin Patch to take home.

Smoky Mountain Trains Museum admission is included with all train excursion tickets. Without train excursion, admission is $9.00 for adults and $5.00 for children.

For more information and reservations please call 800-872-4681 or visit us online at www.GSMR.com.
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6th Annual Southeastern Cowboy Festival & Symposium Celebrates Western Heritage

T2F Note: Saddle up those horses, and head on up the road to Cartersville for this fun festival beginning October 23. It's just another reason to explore Georgia with the Fayette Front Page Day Trippers.

PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Celebrate Western Heritage during the 6th Annual Southeastern Cowboy Festival & Symposium at the Booth Western Art Museum. Visitors will enjoy a Western art symposium, art exhibitions, live entertainment, re-enactments, and more.

The weekend kicks off on Thursday, October 23, beginning at 5:00 p.m. with an opening reception for new art exhibitions: "Dust and Pearls: Showing Attitude in Cowboys and Cowgirls" showcasing the work of featured artist David DeVary, "Drawing on a Legacy: Recent Works by Cherokee Artist Tony Weldon," and "Weaving a Trail Back Home: Cherokee Basketry Traditions." DeVary and Weldon will meet guests, and at 7:00 p.m. DeVary will present a special lecture followed by a signing of the official event poster and his book, "Dust and Pearls."

For Western art enthusiasts, Friday, October 24, features a Western art symposium led by top Western art scholars. This year's topics range from the Taos and Santa Fe art colonies to cutting-edge contemporary Western imagery. The symposium begins at 10:30 a.m. in the Booth Museum Theatre.

Visitors will have the opportunity to attend three concerts during the weekend. Featured entertainers Wylie and the Wild West will perform at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 25 at the historic Grand Theatre in downtown Cartersville. Wylie Gustafson, known as the original, world-famous Yahoo yodeler, leads Wylie and the Wild West. On Friday evening, October 24, Kip Calahan, Doc Stovall and the Tumbleweed Cowboy Band, and Tom Kerlin will present a show featuring music and poetry.

On Saturday and Sunday, guests will experience the West. Re-enactors will recreate the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral and the Big Mountain Family will demonstrate Indian dances. Guests can shop for Western art and collectibles and enjoy continuous entertainment on two stages including cowboy music and poetry, fast draw competitions, and more. History will come alive in Campfires and Canteens featuring Civil War and pioneer encampments and in the East Meets West Indian Village. Sunday activities will include a traditional cowboy church service.

Booth Western Art Museum

The Booth Western Art Museum is an 80,000 square foot museum where guests are invited to explore the American West through contemporary Western artwork. The Museum also houses a Presidential Gallery, Civil War art gallery, and Sagebrush Ranch. To learn more, visit http://www.boothmuseum.org/.

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Fall Fun In Valley Forge

T2F Note: This sounds like a fun trip and a great opportunity to learn something about the history of Valley Forge and the American Revolution. It's a little far to qualify for the Fayette Front Page Day Trippers. From our area, it's more of a Week Tripper. Perhaps we'll see you there!

(NAPSI)-Whether you prefer day trips or weekend getaways, the Valley Forge area and Montgomery County in suburban Philadelphia offer a wide variety of fun fall activities for the whole family. History, shopping and recreation lead the list of what not to miss, as suggested by the Valley Forge Convention and Visitors Bureau.

(1) Pick pumpkins or wander through the corn maze at Freddy Hill Farms and Family Fun Center in Lansdale, weekends in October. (2) Shop upscale King of Prussia Mall, the nation's largest retail shopping complex, or bargain hunt at Philadelphia Premium Outlets in nearby Limerick. (3) Show the kids what it was like to camp at Valley Forge, like George Washington's army did in 1777. Let them join the Continental Army at Valley Forge National Historical Park the first Saturdays of October and November. They'll receive enlistment papers, be issued dummy muskets and learn how to march like soldiers.

(4) Yuk it up at The Stoogeum. It rhymes with museum, as in the only one in the world dedicated exclusively to The Three Stooges. From mass-produced toys, games and air fresheners to rare and one-of-a-kind movie posters and personal effects, it's all Stooges, all the time. Open by appointment only.

As the leaves turn brilliant shades of red, gold and orange, (5) zip-line at 40 miles an hour, 45 feet up, at Spring Mountain. (6) Golf at one of Montgomery County's more than 40 public courses or (7) bike some or all of 55 miles of regional county trails, like the Perkiomen and Schuylkill River Trails. Feel the need for speed? (8) Go-kart indoors at Arnold's Family Fun Center in Oaks.

(9) Bird-watch at John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove as American redstarts, common yellowthroats, scarlet tanagers and rose-breasted grosbeaks migrate for the season. (10) Fish peaceful Green Lane Park, for large- and smallmouth bass and assorted panfish, such as bluegill and perch. Rent a rowboat or motorboat and navigate three bodies of water covering 840 acres.

To learn more about these and other seasonal activities and festivals, or to book an overnight stay and earn a free $35 gas card, visit www.valleyforge.org.

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FAll is Here-- Time for the Pumpkin Patch

T2F Note: Fall is in the air. Just stand outside and feel the delightful cool breeze. When it's fall, it's time for the Pumpkin Patch. The Pumpkin Patch and Uncle Shuck's Corn Maze are just another example of the excellent Fayette Front Page Day Trippers for you to enjoy.

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MONDAY IS THE FIRST DAY OF FALL! Cooler weather has arrived, perfect for traversing through the coolest cornfield in Georgia - Uncle Shuck's Corn Maze. The sunflowers are blooming and the Pumpkin Patch will open September 26. If you are looking for fall images, make a drive up to the corn maze. This weekend and next weekend the maze is open Fri/Sat/Sun. The maze will be open every day in October.

Pumpkin Patch Opens Sept 26

9/19/08 Hues of orange, apricot, ginger, tangerine, coral, persimmon and goldenrod await! It's These are the hues that create a kaleidoscope of color in the Pumpkin Patch! Pumpkins range from 1 pound to over 50 pounds.

Starting Friday, September 26, come enjoy the pumpkin patch, which also includes gourds, cornstalks, multi-colored corn and a sunflower garden! The Pumpkin Patch covers an acre at Uncle Shuck's Corn Maze, located between the corn maze and the giant picnic pavilion. Produce priced individual. There is no admission for Pumpkin Patch and it is a great place for family photos

September and November October (open every day)
Friday, 4 pm to 10 pm Mon – Thu 10 am to 6 pm
Saturday, 10 am to 10 pm Fri – Sat 10 am to 10 pm
Sunday, 10 am to 6 pm Sun 10 am to 6 pm
* final day is Nov 16, 2008

WHERE: Two miles west of GA400 on Highway 53 in Dawsonville. Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch is only 40 minutes from metro Atlanta, just two miles from the North Georgia Premium Outlet Mall.

PRICES:
maze only - $9 for everyone age 4 and over; free for children 3 and under hayride/bonfire - $5 per person
Combo Ticket (maze, hayride, bonfire with s'mores) - $12 per person
Haunted Maze (special dates in Oct) - additional $3 with maze admission; proceeds benefit local county Sheriff's Office Explorer Program.
Group Rates - Available Upon Request

COMPLIMENTARY ACTIVITIES:
Picnic Pavilion
Kiddie CORNer with soybean maze
Sunflower Garden
tractor display & family photo area
Pumpkin Patch (prices vary for pumpkins)

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Savannah Jazz Festival Opens September 20

T2F Note: There's just something about Savannah---- head on down for a weekend of fun! The Fayette Front Page staff had no hesitation when we selected this event as our "Weekend Tripper" this week.

Savannah, Georgia is known for its commitment to the arts and the many festivals that are offered during the year. The week-long Savannah Jazz Festival, one of the largest and most popular of the Savannah festivals, is presented by the Coastal Jazz Association and is dedicated to the growth of jazz and jazz audiences in the Coastal Empire.

The 27th Savannah Jazz Festival, celebrating jazz as a living art built on a constantly evolving tradition will offer all types of jazz, from Dixieland, traditional swing, straight-ahead and bop to melodic standards, and funky down-home "gutbucket" blues. The Festival kick-off on Saturday night (Sept 20) will be a Jazz Concert-Wine Tasting event to raise money for the Backus Children's Hospital. The Jazz Trio featuring Ben Tucker, is headlining for this evening.

The festival features the best in international, national, regional and local jazz talent. The 2008 festival will feature (among others), Bob James, The Savannah Jazz Orchestra-Featuring "Simone", Donald Harrison, The Ben Riley Trio featuring 'Larry Willis', Ben Tucker, Teddy Adams, Wanda Johnson with Shrimp City Slim, James Cotton, Eric Culberson’s Blues Band, Freeport, Bob Baldwin, Eric Mintel, The Coastal Jazz Association All-Stars, The University of North Florida Jazz ensemble with Trombonist, Steve Davis, The Jazz Corner Quintet, Beer Parlor Ramblers, The Jazz Trio, & The Skylite Jazz Ensemble."

All events are at no charge to the public.

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Georgia Aquarium to Celebrate Sea Otter Awareness Week

T2F Note: The Georgia Aquarium makes the Fayette Front Page list again for suggested Day Trippers. Go and enjoy.

Guests are invited to join the Georgia Aquarium in celebrating Sea Otter Awareness Week Sept 21 – 27, 2008. The Aquarium, along with sea otters Oz and Gracie, will educate visitors regarding conservation efforts and facts about sea otters through exciting activities, interactive storytelling and educational information.

Throughout the week, Oz and Gracie will be profiled, highlighting their unique personalities and journey to the Aquarium. Guests will learn about the Aquarium’s rehabilitation efforts and 4R Program that is designed to positively impact the health and well-being of aquatic life from around the world. Additionally, biologists will be on-hand to conduct training and enrichment sessions with the sea others.

As a keystone species, sea otters play an integral role in the ecosystem and health of our oceans. They help maintain the balance among thousands of kelp forest inhabitants. Sea otters also act as an indicator species, meaning that their high rates of disease may be a warning for both marine ecosystems and human health. In order to help the plight of the sea otter, public awareness and education is imperative. Currently, they are listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List and are protected by the Endangered Species Act and The Marine Mammal Protection Act. By becoming an advocate for sea otters and other aquatic life, individuals can make a difference by protecting and saving the marine environment that sea otters call home.
Daily activities for Sea Otter Awareness Week include:

· Arts & Crafts – Guests can create their own sea otter mask!
· Animal Interpreters – On-hand to educate guests about sea otters.
· Conservation Carts – Sea otter pelts and replica otter skulls will be available to touch and examine.
· Plus biologist sessions and enrichment activities with Oz and Gracie, storytelling, videos and more!

For additional information on Sea Otter Awareness Week please visit the Aquarium’s Web site at www.georgiaaquarium.org/visitUs/seaotterweek.aspx or call 404-581-4000.
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Delta Air Lines Creates New Loyalty Program Post, Appoints Jeff Robertson Vice President

Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) today announced the creation of a new officer-level position, Vice President of Loyalty Programs, to support Delta's efforts to further provide high-value, world-class loyalty and partnership programs for the airline’s 42 million SkyMiles members worldwide, and the appointment of Jeff Robertson to this new role.

“The creation of this key, new position reflects the continued importance of the SkyMiles program to Delta and our valued customers,” said Lee Macenczak, executive vice president of Sales and Marketing. “As we continue to move toward closing the merger with Northwest, we anticipate even greater opportunities to grow the program for our expanded base of members worldwide while improving its revenue and profit performance for the company. Under Jeff’s leadership, the SkyMiles program has continued to make significant, industry-leading advances and progress while simultaneously becoming an award-winning customer favorite.”

Robertson, 40, previously served as managing director of SkyMiles.. He is also responsible for co-leading integration efforts toward combining the Northwest WorldPerks and Delta SkyMiles programs to create the world’s largest airline loyalty program. In addition, Robertson oversees all domestic and international frequent flier alliances, the Delta SkyMiles/American Express co-branded credit card, all program partnerships, the Medallion Program and elite benefits, award travel and SkyMiles program technology. Robertson joined the airline in 2002 as director of Customer Insight and Analytics, responsible for corporate CRM objectives, Marketing Research and Customer Analytics.

Prior to Delta, Robertson held various management positions at McKinsey & Company, American Airlines and PricewaterhouseCoopers. Robertson holds an MBA with a concentration in Marketing from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University, and a BS in Accounting from the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Ind.

The award-winning Delta SkyMiles program offers members multiple mileage-earning opportunities when flying Delta, Delta Shuttle®, the Delta Connection® carriers, Delta AirElite® and other SkyTeam® airlines. Additional mileage-building opportunities are offered through more than 100 partners such as the Delta SkyMiles Credit Card from American Express, participating hotels, car rental companies, the SkyMiles Store, restaurants, SkyMilesShopping.com, floral and gift retailers and more. Now in its 27th year, SkyMiles is one of the longest-running and most successful loyalty programs in the travel industry. It was named “Best Domestic Frequent Flyer program” for 2007 and 2008 by readers of Executive Traveler magazine and “Best Frequent Flyer Program” for 2006 and 2007 by Business Traveler magazine. The program also received top honors for “Best Bonus Promotion” from InsideFlyer magazine at the 2007 Freddie Awards.

Delta Air Lines operates service to more worldwide destinations than any airline with Delta and Delta Connection flights to 290 destinations in 60 countries. Delta has added more international capacity than any major U.S. airline during the last two years and is the leader across the Atlantic with flights to 44 trans-Atlantic markets. To Latin America and the Caribbean, Delta offers 288 weekly flights to 42 destinations. Delta's marketing alliances also allow customers to earn and redeem SkyMiles on more than 16,000 flights offered by SkyTeam and other partners. Delta is a founding member of SkyTeam, a global airline alliance that provides customers with extensive worldwide destinations, flights and services. Including its SkyTeam and worldwide codeshare partners, Delta offers flights to 500 worldwide destinations in 105 countries. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes, check bags and flight status at delta.com.
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Atlanta Becomes 'Tutlanta' as Tickets Go on Sale Today for 'Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs'

T2F Note: Several of our staff made the journey to Charlotte several years ago when there was an Egyptian Pharaoh exhibit. By all means, go to this event. You'll be sure to be dazzled.

PRNewswire/ -- "Tutlanta" launched today as tickets became available for "Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs," a new exhibition featuring more than 130 treasures from the tomb of celebrated pharaoh King Tutankhamun and other ancient Egyptian sites. The exhibition will premiere at the Atlanta Civic Center from November 15, 2008, to May 25, 2009, and is presented by the Michael C. Carlos Museum of Emory University.

To kick off fall's golden celebration, exhibition organizers announced a slate of Egyptian-themed activities and initiatives that will launch in conjunction with the exhibition. The "Egyptomania in Atlanta Bus Tour" will transport visitors on a chartered coach to explore Egyptian revival art and architecture in Atlanta with the Michael C. Carlos Museum's curator of Egyptian art, Dr. Peter Lacovara, as their guide. "TUT Trivia!" will incorporate King Tut-themed questions into trivia nights at select Atlanta locations. In January 2009, the Atlanta Opera and Emory University's Flora Glenn Candler concert series will present Philip Glass' opera "Akhnaten," which explores the great pharaoh's reign just before that of Tutankhamun.

Additionally, more than 75 businesses throughout the city will participate in a "Tutlanta" affinity card that all King Tut ticket-buyers will receive, entitling them to $250 worth of Egyptian-themed offerings and discounts at participating locations. From restaurants to health and beauty treatments to petcare, "Tutlanta" partner offers include "TROIS visits Egypt," a five-plate Egyptian-influenced menu at Trois for $25; "Pharaoh's Steam Bath," a custom treatment at the Atlanta Dog Spa; and "Pharaoh's Fire and Ice Facial" at Julio Cesar's Salon and Spa. A full listing of offers is available at http://www.tutlanta.com/.

Commissioner Dianne Harnell Cohen unveiled the official "Tutlanta" logo, which was created by a local Atlantan and will be featured on select exhibition merchandise and used regionally to promote the citywide celebration.

"Tutankhamun's magic still captures the hearts of people all over the world, even though more than 85 years have passed since the discovery of his amazing tomb," said Zahi Hawass, secretary general of Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities. "America has welcomed the golden king, and now he returns, bringing with him all the great pharaohs of Egypt."

Proceeds from the tour will go toward antiquities preservation and conservation efforts in Egypt, including the construction of a new grand museum in Cairo. Tickets and information are available at http://www.kingtut.org/ or http://www.carlos.emory.edu/.

The Michael C. Carlos Museum has developed educational materials in conjunction with the exhibition for elementary, middle and high school audiences. These supplemental materials will be available for download for free and will highlight topics such as childhood in ancient Egypt and how the journey to the afterlife was believed to occur.

"We are dedicated to the educational and inspirational value of exhibitions here in Atlanta," said Bonnie Speed, director of the Michael C. Carlos Museum. "The Tutankhamun exhibition presents a landmark opportunity to experience the richness of ancient Egypt's art and culture and to understand its global influence. We believe this exhibition, along with the educational materials and vibrant Egyptian-themed, citywide events we have developed, will offer our community a variety of ways to access Egypt's magical past."

The exhibition is organized by National Geographic, Arts and Exhibitions International and AEG Exhibitions, with cooperation from the Egyptian Supreme Council of Antiquities. Northern Trust is the presenting sponsor of the tour, and American Airlines is the official airline.

"Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs" is the second National Geographic exhibition dedicated to the remarkable treasures of King Tutankhamun and ancient Egyptian royalty. The first exhibition, "Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs," was visited by nearly 4 million people during its four-city U.S. tour from 2005 to 2007, and will begin a three-city encore tour in Dallas later this year.

"'Tutlanta' was born from the excitement seen throughout the city since announcing the exhibition would make its U.S. premiere in Atlanta," said John Norman, president of Arts and Exhibitions International. "Residents and visitors to the Atlanta area are lucky to have so many opportunities to experience offerings in conjunction with the exhibition that will enhance their knowledge about this important period in world history."

Also today, Northern Trust, presenting sponsor of the exhibition, donated exhibition tickets to a first-grade class from Morningside Elementary School. Nearly 230 students from the Atlanta public school will be among the first to experience the exhibition.

"For nearly 120 years, Northern Trust has strived to increase social interaction and a sense of community, and integrate the arts into education and other outreach activities," said Frederick H. Waddell, president and chief executive officer of Northern Trust Corporation. "We look forward to sharing this extraordinary event with the Atlanta community, as well as visitors from around the world."

Exhibition organizers anticipate the exhibition will be a strong attraction for visitors throughout the region.

"American Airlines is thrilled to have a role in bringing 'Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs' to its Atlanta premiere," said Dan Garton, executive vice president of marketing for American Airlines. "As the official airline of the exhibition, we are pleased that American Airlines is helping to make it possible for these extraordinary objects to be seen by thousands of visitors."

ABOUT THE EXHIBITION

Premiering November 15, 2008, to May 25, 2009, at the Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center, "Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs" will feature striking objects from some of the most important rulers throughout 2,000 years of ancient Egyptian history, from the 4th Dynasty into the Late Period (about 2600 B.C. - 660 B.C.). Derived from a variety of contexts, including temples and royal and private tombs, many of these artifacts have never before visited the United States.

Tutankhamun was one of the last kings of Egypt's 18th Dynasty and ruled during a crucial, turmoil-filled period of Egyptian history. The boy king died under mysterious circumstances around age 18 or 19, in the ninth year of his reign (1323 B.C.).

The exhibition will highlight more than 50 treasures from Tutankhamun's tomb and more than 70 artifacts representing other pharaohs and notables, along with the latest scientific research about King Tut. The storyline will focus on the splendor of the Egyptian pharaohs, their function in the earthly and divine worlds, and what kingship meant to the Egyptian people.

Four galleries devoted to King Tut will correspond to the four rooms of his nearly intact tomb, where the treasures were discovered by British explorer Howard Carter in 1922. Legendary artifacts from the antechamber, the annex, the treasury and the burial chamber will include Tutankhamun's golden sandals, jewelry, furniture, weaponry and statuary.

TICKET INFORMATION

Tickets to the exhibition at the Atlanta Civic Center can be purchased at http://www.ticketmaster.com/. Group tickets for 10 or more are available by calling 1-866-52GROUP or visiting http://www.kingtut.org/. For additional information about tickets and pricing, please call 1-877-TUT-TKTS or visit http://www.ticketmaster.com/ or http://www.kingtut.org/.

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The Westin Atlanta Airport Becomes Atlanta’s Destination for Travelers to Revive and Refresh Upon Completion of Guest Room Renovations

The Westin Atlanta Airport is near completion of a multi-million dollar renovation to the hotel’s 500 guest rooms, reinforcing the commitment of the renewal of guests during their stay. The rejuvenation of the guest rooms is part of a $18 million renovation which will also include improvements to meeting space, the lobby and the hotel’s exterior.

The hotel’s mission of renewing, relaxing and reviving each hotel guest is evidenced by the special touches in each guest room including: the heavenly sleep experience of the newest version of the Westin Heavenly Bed®, new carpeting, 32" LG® flat-screen televisions with jack pack connections that allow guests to utilize the 24-hour High-Speed Internet Access, listen to their iPod® and watch television from the same source, among other amenities. Adjoining every bedroom is an elegantly tiled bathroom featuring Westin’s rejuvenating Heavenly Bath®, with its fully customizable shower, the back-lit Westin Heavenly Mirror, and spa-like amenities.

“The renovations complement our impeccable service, offering a relaxing stay for harried travelers,” General Manager Bill Henderson said. “When a guest chooses to stay with us, our commitment to renewal, service and loyalty will leave a lasting impression.”

The guest room enhancements confirm the Westin Atlanta Airport’s dedication to providing the business traveler with a relaxing experience. Other services that the hotel provides to allow business travelers to travel effortlessly:

BAGS - hotel skycap service that allows guests to check their luggage and receive their boarding pass in the hotel lobby.

24-Hour Room Service - around the clock in-room dining for guests arriving on late flights from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.

Real Time Fight Info (coming in late 2008) - guests can check on the arrival/departure times of flights from the hotel lobby or the comfort of their guest rooms.

Flight Check-In – guests can check-in and print their boarding passes at the front desk or through the BAGS service.
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JetBlue Airways is Nickel-and-Diming Fares! Flights and Vacation Packages Now Up for Bid On eBay Starting At Five and Ten Cents* Each

GLOBE NEWSWIRE - Value airline JetBlue Airways Corporation (Nasdaq:JBLU) today announced it is auctioning more than 300 roundtrip flights and six JetBlue Getaways Vacation packages on eBay, the world's largest online marketplace, with opening bids starting at a nickel or a dime (*taxes and fees apply). Customers can join in the online auction action at www.jetblue.com/ebay from today through September 14.

The first airline to sell last-minute flights and packages on eBay, JetBlue, JetBlue is offering flights and packages to more than 20 destinations, including four mystery JetBlue Getaways Vacation packages -- two "No Passport Necessary" and two "Pack Your Passport" -- to exciting undisclosed locations. Each mystery Getaways vacation package includes flights for two and hotel accommodation at a four-star Marriott property.

"We're putting the price of spontaneous weekend trips this fall into the hands of our customers," said Don Uselmann, Manager of Business Development for JetBlue Airways. "This is their chance to compete to get the best deals on flights and vacation packages to many of JetBlue's most exciting destinations -- on their own terms. And no matter what flight they win, our lucky eBay customers, like every JetBlue customer, will enjoy our award-winning in-flight experience -- 36 channels of DIRECTV, 100 XM Satellite Radio stations, Dunkin' Donuts coffee, lots of legroom, and delicious brand name snacks and sodas -- for free**."

JetBlue's three-day, five-day and seven-day auctions on eBay include one and two person roundtrip, weekend flights in September from cities including: Boston, Chicago, New York, Orlando, Salt Lake City, Fort Lauderdale and Southern California. In addition, JetBlue Getaways Vacation packages, including airfare and a four-night hotel stay for two are also up for bid to Las Vegas and Nassau, Bahamas. Outbound travel packages take place on Thursdays and Fridays, returning Sundays and Mondays. All travel must be complete by Monday, October 6, 2008.

* Taxes and Fees Apply. All air travel and vacation packages are nonrefundable, nontransferable, and name changes are not permitted. Travel must take place and be completed on the dates and times stated in the Flight Details Section of the Bid page. Bids/fares do not include Passenger Facility Charges of up to $9 each way, September 11th Security Fees of up to $5 each way and a Federal Segment Tax of $3.50 per domestic segment. A segment is a takeoff and landing. Puerto Rico fares also do not include an excise tax of $15.40 each way. Bid/Fares for international travel also do not include government fees and taxes of up to $76.20 each way. Winning bidder is responsible for all taxes and fees, which must be paid at the time of purchase. Additional bag charges may apply. To view our baggage fees, please visit jetblue.com/baggage. JetBlue reserves the right to deny boarding to passengers without proper documentation. Cancellations and changes are not permitted for vacation packages or the air component of vacation packages. However, for air-only travel, changes and cancellations can be made prior to scheduled departure for $100 per person at 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583), 1-297-588-5388 if located in Aruba, 1-800-861-3372 if located in Mexico, 1-809-200-9898 if located in Dominican Republic, 1-801-365-2583 if located in St. Maarten, 1-800-884-9616 if located in Bermuda, or at jetblue.com, with applicable fare adjustment. Cancellations are for a JetBlue travel credit only, which is valid for one year. If a reservation is not changed or cancelled prior to scheduled departure, all money associated with the reservation is forfeited. JetBlue reserves the right to deny boarding to passengers without proper documentation. All travel is subject to JetBlue's Contract of Carriage and applicable tariffs on file with the Department of Transportation. In the case of vacation packages, JetBlue's Ebay Getaway Terms and Conditions Apply. Other restrictions apply.
**DIRECTV(r) service is not available on flights outside the continental United States.
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