Celebrate the Start of Summer at Callaway Gardens' Memorial Day Weekend Festival

It’s time celebrate the arrival of Summer at Callaway Gardens’ Memorial Day Weekend Festival, May 27-30, 2011. Catch a few rays, kick up a little sand, enjoy a variety of music and watch world champions compete at the 52nd Annual Masters Water Ski & Wakeboard Tournament®.

Memorial Day Weekend opens Robin Lake Beach for the Summer – with lots of new, exciting activities for 2011, including Light Striker Laser Tag*, Blaster Boats* and Aqua Island*, an expansive floating playground. Robin Lake Beach also will continue to offer its traditional activities of swimming, shuffleboard, table tennis, miniature golf and performances by The FSU Flying High Circus.

Inside the Gardens, guests can add some adrenaline to their day on Callaway Gardens’ newest year-round attraction, TreeTop Adventure*, which features 24 aerial challenges and zip lines. Reservations are suggested.

As is tradition at Callaway Gardens, Memorial Day Weekend is full of championship waterskiing and wakeboarding on Robin Lake, as well as the brand new sport of wakeskating. Watch dozens of the world’s finest water sports athletes representing more than 14 countries compete for more than $110,000 in cash and prizes in the Masters Water Ski & Wakeboard Tournament. Competition events include tricks, slalom, jump, wakeboard and wakeskating. The Junior Masters elimination rounds and finals will be Friday, May 27, at 8 a.m. The Masters elimination rounds will begin at 8 a.m. Saturday. Sunday will start with Opening Ceremonies at 10 a.m. and finals at 11 a.m. with participants competing for the coveted title of Masters Champion.

Special tournament activities on Robin Lake Beach will include water sports exhibitors, concessions and other festivities for spectators to enjoy throughout the event.

Growing the festivities for Memorial Day Weekend in 2011, Callaway Gardens has planned tons of fun following the competition each day. Friday will feature live music by pop/rock artist Kurt Scobie, a beach cookout* and the new Callaway Gardens Farmers Market, an opportunity to purchase locally grown produce and products. Saturday evening will take on a Cajun theme with a Low Country Boil*, live music by The Charlie Wooton Project and Zydefunk, and Beach Olympics for some friendly competition. To celebrate the end of the tournament, Sunday evening will feature the introduction of the newly crowned Masters Champions, a Barbecue* and live music by Running Down Romance. Since it is a long holiday weekend, the fun continues on Monday with two ski stunt shows by the Tampa Bay Water Ski Show Team, and a demonstration of Nautique boats.

Guests can enjoy the many attractions unique to Callaway Gardens that are available year-round including the Birds of Prey show featuring free-flight hawks, owls and falcons; butterflies flying about in the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center; beautiful horticultural displays in the John A. Sibley Horticultural Center; and a bounty of growing vegetables and flowers in Mr. Cason’s Vegetable Garden. The 10-mile Discovery Bicycle Trail takes guests on a leisurely ride by all of these great attractions. A tennis match, round of golf, or time spent fishing by boat are enjoyable ways to begin or end a great day at Callaway.

Admission to this special event Memorial Day Weekend is $25/adult and $12.50/child (age 6 to 12). Children 5 and younger are admitted for free. Callaway Gardens Annual Passholders receive half-price admission. For this special holiday event, military personnel receive free admission for themselves and up to five guests in the same vehicle with presentation of active or retired military identification. Preferred Pavilion Passes are limited and are available on a first-come basis.

Make this experience a weekend getaway. Stay for the weekend and enjoy the new TreeTop Adventure and Callaway Gardens’ array of facilities, attractions and special events.

For more information or to make a reservation, call 1-800-CALLAWAY (225-5292) or visit www.callawaygardens.com.

Make this Memorial Day Weekend one to remember for a lifetime!

*Fee charged

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Atlanta Dogwood Festival Marks 75th Anniversary and Remains the South's Favorite Springtime Tradition

/PRNewswire/ -- Forget Paris - Atlanta is beautiful in the spring. The Southern destination is also home to one of the country's oldest fine arts festivals, which will celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2011. The Atlanta Dogwood Festival offers enough fun for the entire weekend, and local hotels are on-board with special room rates in celebration of the festival's diamond anniversary.

It's an event 75 years in the making, and the 2011 Atlanta Dogwood Festival promises more excitement than ever under the blooming of the city's most beautiful trees.

AT A GLANCE

The 75th Annual Atlanta Dogwood Festival takes place in Atlanta's beautiful Piedmont Park on April 15, 16 and 17, 2011. Festival attendance is free, although a few of the areas are ticketed. http://www.dogwood.org

TRAVEL

The Atlanta Dogwood Festival has teamed up with Hotel Palomar in Midtown to offer a festival weekend special that includes extra benefits for the arts. Guests can enjoy special pricing on a one-night or weekend stay in a City View Room. http://www.hotelpalomar-atlantamidtown.com

Additional hotel packages will be available at great local hotels. Details will be available on the festival website: http://www.dogwood.org.

ARTS

The 2011 Atlanta Dogwood Festival Artist Market welcomes fine artists from throughout the country and features all types of art from oil painting to jewelry to sculpture and textiles. There is plenty to tempt any collector!

Again this year, the Atlanta Dogwood Festival is particularly proud of its Atlanta High School Art Exhibition (AHSAE), which is held in the Community Center at the park during the festival and highlights the variety and breadth of young Atlanta artistic talent.

GLOBAL

The Atlanta Dogwood Festival kicked off the International Village two years ago to recognize and celebrate the city's diverse international communities. With the International Stage, edutainment booths, decorated mobile art golf carts and a Friday night La Fete, the International Village has quickly become a favorite feature of the festival.

SPECTATORS

Each year, the Atlanta Dogwood Festival offers entertainment throughout the weekend including two live music stages, a popular live disc dog show, theater productions and kid-friendly street performances.

FOR FOODIES

The "Friends of Dogwood Pavilion" is a ticketed event that has become a popular feature of the Atlanta Dogwood Festival and pairs fare from top local restaurants with wines and beers in a comfortable, private setting. Tickets to Friends of Dogwood can be purchased in advance beginning in the spring at http://www.dogwood.org.

KIDS

Designed just for the younger festival visitors, the Kid's Village has become an Atlanta Dogwood Festival favorite for families. This interactive zone comes complete with hands-on art projects, special kid-friendly displays and hours of entertainment for children.

ENTRANCE

Just as it has been for the past 74 years, the 75th Annual Atlanta Dogwood Festival is free!

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Dunham Farms to Host Magical Holiday Festival of Lights & Music

/PRNewswire/ -- Dunham Farms, one of the Georgia coast's most scenic and historic destinations, presents its first-annual Holiday Festival of Lights & Music on December 4 & 11, 3:30-9:30 pm. The event features traditional country delights—hay rides and square dancing—along with sophisticated entertainment, including performances by jazz legend Ben Tucker. The festival promises something for everyone: guided tours of the property's historic buildings, model railroad displays, holiday carols, Christmas trees, delicious food and the breathtaking sight of centuries old moss-dappled oaks decorated with thousands of twinkling lights. General admission is only $10 with discounts available for students, seniors and children.

"Everyone needs an infusion of joy, music, beauty and laughter in their lives—especially in trying times," says owner Laura Devendorf, whose family has been a steward of the land that includes Dunham Farms since 1755, when it was granted to them by King George II. "Our property has a magical quality at any time of year, but this festival will be truly spectacular—a moment of pure delight to lift hearts and bring people together to see and hear and feel."

The $10 general admission fee includes access to the light show and grounds, as well as to the model railroad displays on loan from the Middle Georgia Model Railroad Club, tours of the circa 1840's Palmyra Plantation Cottage and Barn, and concerts by Savannah-based jazz legend Ben Tucker.

For an additional $2, guests can enjoy an authentic plantation-style hay ride; an additional $15 allows access to a guided house tour, where noted musician Chris Kohut will dazzle guests with a virtuoso lute performance by firelight. The hour-long house tours will explore the fascinating history and legends of the structure, built on the foundations of the original 1755 home.

At the food service area, guests can sample traditional Hoppin' John—a delicious, nutty-flavored rice-and-beans dish—made with endangered Seminole peas grown right on the property.

All proceeds from the Holiday Festival of Lights &Music benefit nearby Seabrook Village, the first African-American living history museum in the South.

For more information, visit http://www.dunhamfarms.com/holiday_festival.html or call (912) 880-4500.

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American Bus Association Names Two Callaway Gardens Events as North America's 100 Best Events for 2011

The American Bus Association (ABA) announced earlier this month that Callaway Gardens’ Chrysanthemum Festival and the 20th annual Fantasy In Lights®, have been designated as two of the Top 100 Events in North America for 2011 by an experienced expert tourism industry selection committee. Inclusion in the Top 100 list, published as a supplement to the September/October issue of Destinations magazine, indicates that the Chrysanthemum Festival and Fantasy In Lights both offer excellent entertainment value to both tour groups and individual travelers from around the world, according to ABA.

During Chrysanthemum season, October and early-November, more than 10,000 mums of all sizes, shapes and hues provide beautiful splashes of color to Callaway Gardens’ seasonally changing landscape. A special highlight that come into color in early November are the beautiful plantings of carefully trained cascading mums.

Fantasy In Lights, the most spectacular holiday light and sound show in the South adds drama to the Gardens each evening from mid-November through December with more than eight million lights creating a Winter wonderland. Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2011, the ride-through Fantasy In Lights has become a holiday tradition for many.

“We are honored to be recognized by ABA,” said John McKinney, motorcoach sales manager for Callaway Gardens. “Having worked with motorcoach groups for more than 20 years here at Callaway Gardens, I can tell you that motorcoach groups really enjoy the ability to come to one destination and enjoy a day experience and then, with Fantasy In Lights, a night experience. Seeing the azaleas in the Spring, the mums in the Fall and, of course, Fantasy In Lights is a big draw for groups.”

With the release of the American Bus Association's 2011 Top 100 Events in North America, ABA celebrates 29 years of the program. What began as a way for motorcoach operators to incorporate new product into their itineraries has grown to one of the most sought-after lists by travel professionals, motorcoach operators and the general public.

"The attractiveness of the Chrysanthemum Festival and Fantasy In Lights as don't-miss entertainment value is only part of why its selection this year is such a distinction for Callaway Gardens," said Peter J. Pantuso, CTIS, ABA's president and CEO. "The real news here is that the Chrysanthemum Festival and Fantasy In Lights have been recognized as potential magnets for tourism dollars, at a time when reenergizing domestic tourism is so important to our spirit and our economy. The honor gives Callaway Gardens an important boost in visibility among professional tour planners."

According to studies completed by researchers at The George Washington University and Dunham and Associates, one overnight visit by a motorcoach group can leave from US $5,000 to more than US $13,000 in a local destination's economy. Those dollars are spent on lodging, meals, admissions, fees, shopping, souvenirs, services and local taxes.

"Motorcoach groups spend more and stay longer,” Pantuso said. “That's why the Chrysanthemum Festival and Fantasy In Lights are truly local economic assets. There is no better way to jump-start tourism than to attract motorcoach groups to a great event and convince them to extend their stay."

ABA's 2011 Top 100 Events Selection Committee selected the Chrysanthemum Festival and Fantasy In Lights from among a record number of more than 650 event nominations submitted by ABA members. Judges considered the event's broad appeal, its accessibility to motorcoaches and skill at handling large groups, and a variety of other relevant criteria.

The Top 100 Events list is available online at www.buses.org/top100.

Tour group operators are invited to contact John McKinney, Callaway Gardens Motorcoach Sales Manager, at 1-800-543-7121 ext. 5135, 706-663-5135 or jmckinney@callawaygardens.com.

Callaway Gardens is in Pine Mountain, Ga., 60 minutes southwest of Atlanta and 30 minutes north of Columbus. To experience nature at its finest, call 1-800-CALLAWAY or visit www.callawaygardens.com.

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Time to gather the apples

The stifling heat of summer is gone. Autumn is here, and so is Georgia apple pickin’ time. But apples can’t be found growing everywhere in the state. To get them, a drive to the north Georgia mountains must be made.

The apple capitol of Georgia, Gilmer County, is in its peak of the season. And the best picking time is right now, and this year’s harvest is looking especially strong.

“This year has been a really good year for the growers,” said Michael Wheeler, a University of Georgia Cooperative Extension agent in Gilmer County. “Some of the harvest came in early because of the heat, but overall the quality and quantity looks very good.”

Only a couple of orchards distribute their apples to stores, and those stores are in north Georgia. Some growers sell apples in bulk at wholesale prices to consumers from other areas in the state. The rest of apples, about 90 percent, can only be purchased from roadside stands or directly from the orchards.

The apples sold in north Georgia are all local to the area. Wheeler says there is little shipping involved in their distribution, and consumers know where the product is coming from.

North Georgia allows for a wide variety of apples, which are sweeter and fare far better in comparison to those found in the grocery store, he said.

“The apples hang on the tree until they are harvested and taken straight to the stands. The apples are able to mature on the tree until they are just perfect,” said Wheeler.

Another great aspect of getting the freshest apples around is the mountain life experiences.
Agritourism in northeast Georgia keeps visitors plenty busy. There are plenty of camping grounds, hiking trails, sight seeing, kayaking, whitewater rafting and the beautiful mountain landscape full of orange and red leaves.

“The number of visitors increases significantly with the weather as well,” he said. “A break from the heat gives sunny, cool days that are perfect to be outside in.”

The weather couldn’t come at a better time, either. The main event of apple season in Gilmer County is the annual Georgia Apple Festival, which will be this weekend and again Oct. 16-17 this year.
Activities will include shopping, crafts, petting farms, pig races, pumpkin patches and, of course, apple bobbing and apple products galore.

“We are anticipating a good crowd because of the weather during the first weekend of the apple festival,” Wheeler said.

Throughout harvest, not just during festival times, most orchards in Gilmer County allow visitors to tour orchards, pick their own apples and take them home, he said.

For more information on the Apple Festival, visit the Gilmer County Chamber of Commerce website at www.gilmerchamber.com.




By Sarah Lewis
UGA



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12th Annual Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival Labor Day Weekend‏ at Callaway Gardens®

Are you lamenting the end of another summer? Worry not…at Callaway Gardens®, things are looking up …way up …with the return of the Callaway Gardens® Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival for its twelfth year.

Set for September 3-5, 2010, this annual Balloon Festival has something for everyone, from the soaring, majestic, colorful balloons to Callaway Gardens’ unique mix of natural beauty, to its endless helpings of multi-generational activities and events. When it comes to family fun at Callaway Gardens, the sky is the limit!

Festivities kick off Friday night when guests flock to Robin Lake Beach for the Balloon Glow. Upbeat live music sets the mood as balloons inflate. While the sun sets, the balloons’ individual colors glow against the gorgeous evening sky. Guests shout “ready, set…glow” while the tunes of a classic brass band play in the background.

On both Saturday and Sunday mornings, it is up, up and away as the balloons head for the open skies (weather permitting) at sunrise and sunset. On the ground, the action continues as Robin Lake Beach plays host to a family festival featuring activities and events for all ages. Choose from tethered balloon rides (weather permitting, fee), a rock climbing wall (fee), bungee jump (fee), sandcastle building, swimming, miniature golf, kite building, t-shirt tie-dyeing (fee) and more.

Don’t miss the very popular Classic Car Show on Saturday. In 2010, more than 100 cars are expected to roll through the gates and add even more color to the already spectacular event.

NEW this year, Robin Lake will host the 26th Nautique Kneeboard Nationals and the 5th International Kneeboard Riders Cup throughout the weekend. Also new this year will the opportunity to walk inside a balloon envelope. Saturday’ admission includes a Saturday night concert by country music artist Kevin Sport, on Robin Lake Beach from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. to be followed by a Movie on the Beach at dusk. After three weeks of voting, the public has chosen the recently released movie Marmaduke via a Facebook/callawaygardens poll.

Meanwhile, the athletically-inclined can enjoy their own adventures thanks to the Callaway Gardens Fitness Series, including a 5K run and the Triathlon on Sunday morning. This year represents the 30th anniversary of the Triathlon at Callaway Gardens. It is the oldest triathlon in the South and one of the longest continuous running triathlons in the continental United States. To register, visit www.active.com.

Want to be a part of the high flying balloon action? Sign up to be on a Balloon Chase Crew. Crew members are assigned to assist pilots throughout the weekend with setting up balloons, chasing them when they are in the air and then bringing them back to Callaway after landing. For more information, contact Greg Brannen at 706-663-5043 or gbrannen@callawaygardens.com.

Festival admission is $25 per adult (ages 13-64); $20 per senior (65+); $12.50 per child (ages 6-12); and free for children five and younger (admission prices include tax). This price includes access to Callaway Gardens’ and its many attractions and activities. As an incentive to witness the morning launches, admission at the U.S. Hwy. 27 Beach gate will be half-price from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Stay around and enjoy the entire weekend with friends and family on the Sky High Hot Air Balloon Weekend Package. Starting at $159**, this offer includes accommodations in the Mountain Creek Inn; admission to the Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival; four tickets to make tie-dye T-shirts at the Festival on Saturday or Sunday; breakfast in the Plant Room, Country Kitchen or Piedmont Dining Room; admission to Callaway Gardens and its many attractions; use of the Mountain Creek Inn Fitness Center.

Don’t delay. Call now for reservations at 1-800-CALLAWAY (225-5292) or make reservations online at www.callawaygardens.com.

Callaway Gardens®, is in Pine Mountain, Ga., 60 minutes southwest of Atlanta and 30 minutes north of Columbus.


*Ballooning is dependent on safe weather conditions including wind velocity and direction.


**Rate is per night, based on double occupancy and availability in the Mountain Creek Inn. Some restrictions apply. Rates also are available for the Southern Pine Cottages, Mountain Creek Villas and Lodge and Spa at Callaway Gardens.

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The Georgia Sea Turtle Center and the Jekyll Island Authority To Celebrate Sea Turtles With the Annual Shell-E-Bration, Nest Fest and Turtle Crawl Triathlon

/PRNewswire/ -- As coastal Georgia begins to welcome in warmer weather, it is also that time of year to welcome a very special annual visitor to Jekyll Island- the sea turtle! Nesting season begins mid-May and continues through August and hundreds of these amazing sea creatures come home to nest on Jekyll Island's sprawling beaches.

Jekyll Island is home to the internationally-acclaimed Georgia Sea Turtle Center (GSTC), an operating sea turtle rehabilitation facility open to the public which is operated by the Jekyll Island Authority, and encourages sea turtle education and preservation through activities and programs and research. The Georgia Sea Turtle Center (GSTC) is dedicated to monitoring the turtles during nesting season and protecting both the turtles and their nests.

Beginning in early spring, Jekyll Island will be celebrating sea turtles with a variety of activities and programs to educate kids and their families on these endangered species. The activities are modestly priced, and many are free and open to the public.

Shell-e-brate Earth Day - Sat., April 17: Guests and residents will celebrate Earth Day this year with the Georgia Sea Turtle Center at the third annual Shell-e-brate Earth Day family festival! From eco-friendly entertainment to earth-tastic arts and crafts, this family fun day has something to offer everyone. This event is free with general admission to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center.

Nest Fest - May 10-15: Undoubtedly one of the most exciting times of the year at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center is the sea turtle nesting season. This years' annual Nest Fest marks the eighth anniversary of this fantastic week-long celebration aimed at educating both children and adults on sea turtles, coastal ecology and eco-friendly behavior. To make reservations for any of the Nest Fest events, please contact the Georgia Sea Turtle Center at 912-635-4444.

Turtle Crawl Triathlon - Sat., May 15: The Jekyll Island Turtle Crawl Triathlon is a chance for participants of all skill levels to come together and enjoy an afternoon on the coast. A full triathlon is offered for the most ambitious of athletes. The race begins with a 1.5 mile swim, then continues to a 40K bike ride and finishes up with a 10K run. For those wanting a more leisurely event, the Sprint Triathlon offers a 600 yard swim, 20K bike ride and a 5K run. A 5K Fun Run/Walk will offer a more relaxed way to benefit the GSTC. A portion of the proceeds go to benefit the GSTC on Jekyll Island.

More about the Georgia Sea Turtle Center:

The internationally-acclaimed Georgia Sea Turtle Center (GSTC) is located on a barrier island off the coast of Georgia - Jekyll Island. In addition to rehabilitating injured and ill sea turtles, as well as educating the public and conducting research, the GSTC is dedicated to monitoring the turtles during nesting season and protecting them and their nests during this crucial time as the saga of Georgia's sea turtles plays out every summer on the beaches of Jekyll Island. Jekyll, a state-owned island, has been largely preserved in its natural state, and is a favorite location where many of these threatened and endangered turtles come to nest and hatch. Nest Fest and the Turtle Crawl Triathlon are supported by a grant from the Georgia Tourism Foundation.

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A Wave of Entertaining Celebrations Comes to Myrtle Beach in May

(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Myrtle Beach area of South Carolina is introducing four inaugural events to its quintessential summer entertainment lineup along with the official introduction of its first-ever oceanfront boardwalk. The month of festivities coined as Myrtle Beach MayFest will be marked by celebrity appearances, music, food and entertainment for all ages, along with a variety of special hotel deals throughout the month.

“May is a beautiful time to enjoy a getaway in Myrtle Beach before the height of summer”

Long-known for its plethora of affordable attractions and activities that appeal to a wide range of travelers, the Myrtle Beach area is energized to preempt summer with its MayFest celebrations.

“May is a beautiful time to enjoy a getaway in Myrtle Beach before the height of summer,” said Brad Dean, Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce/CVB, “We’re thrilled to host such an array of exciting and family-friendly events to enhance the Myrtle Beach experience for our visitors.”

Kicking off MayFest is the Arts & Film Celebration on May 1st with a lineup that includes free celebrity meet-and-greets with Alex Meraz of “Twilight: New Moon” and Catherine Bell of Lifetime Movie Network’s “Army Wives.” Visitors will enjoy outdoor movies, R&B and jazz bands, food, arts and craft vendors, fireworks and more. The event will be held in conjunction with Arts & Film Celebration Week, April 24-May 2, with the F.A.M.E. (Film, Arts, Music, Entertainment) Festival starting the week.

On May 15, 2010, Myrtle Beach will officially unveil its brand new, mile-long, oceanfront boardwalk with a ribbon cutting ceremony and Beach Music Festival. To welcome this exciting new addition to the beach-front community, Buddy Valastro of TLC’s “The Cake Boss” will be on-site building a celebratory beach-themed flip-flop cake. The weekend will include free performances by eight beach music acts like Ben E. King, the Coasters and the Embers among others, followed by a fireworks spectacular to conclude the weekend.

The month-long party continues with the Beach Blast! Christian Music Festival on May 22, 2010. The ticketed event will feature a host of musical acts including TobyMac and The Afters, Kutless, speaker David Nasser and a variety of food, arts and crafts exhibitors – ending the evening with a fireworks display.

To conclude the May festivities, Memorial Day weekend will feature a free concert with headliner Jordin Sparks - winner of American Idol’s sixth season - along with other Disney & Nickelodeon performers Mitchell Musso, Drake Bell, Jasmine Richards and Savannah Outen. Families will also be treated to very special free celebrity meet-and-greets with such notable Disney & Nickelodeon favorites as: Nathan Kress of “iCarly,” Savannah Outen of “Hannah Montana,” Jasmine Richards of “Camp Rock,” Drake Bell of “Drake and Josh,” Tiffany Thornton of “Sonny with a Chance” and Debby Ryan of “Suite Life on Deck.” Visitors can also enjoy a massive Memorial Day parade with celebrity veteran and NASA astronaut, Buzz Aldrin who is currently competing on ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” and will serve as the parade’s Grand Marshal.

For specific dates/times and more information on Myrtle Beach MayFest and special hotel offers that include oceanfront accommodations, please visit www.MyrtleBeachMayfest.com.

The Myrtle Beach area, popularly known as the Grand Strand, stretches from Little River to Pawleys Island, comprising 12 distinct cities along the South Carolina coast. Home to world-class golf, 60 miles of sandy beaches, an assortment of entertainment and family attractions and Southern hospitality, the Myrtle Beach area presents the quintessential vacation experience.

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4th Annual Fiesta Atlanta Returns to Centennial Olympic Park on May 2nd

/PRNewswire/ -- Lanza Group's largest festival, Fiesta Atlanta returns to Centennial Olympic Park on Sunday, May 2 to celebrate Cinco de Mayo.

"We are proud Fiesta Atlanta has become the largest celebration of Cinco de Mayo with a hugely diverse crowd," says Lanza Group President Ralph E. Herrera. "Centennial Olympic Park is the perfect setting in the heart of Atlanta, with plenty of green space for families."

Fiesta Atlanta is a free, daylong festival that features a full day of live Latin music on two stages, with national and local recording artists. The children's stage lineup includes lively, colorful acts including Mexican folkloric dancers, clowns, musicians and storytellers. Artists will be selling handmade traditional crafts and delicious Latin foods such as tacos and aguas frescas will be for sale. The festival's partners will provide samples of their products and interactive displays.

Centennial Olympic Park has been the site of Fiesta Atlanta since its inception in 2007; attendance has grown steadily year by year. Fiesta Atlanta has evolved from a predominately Hispanic event to include the entire community with more crossover artists, international arts and crafts and a fun filled atmosphere for all to enjoy. Fiesta Atlanta begins at 10 A.M. on Sunday, May 2 and ends at 7 P.M. For more information, visit www.FiestaAtlanta.com.

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The Jekyll Island Authority Announces 2010 Georgia Coast Birding and Nature Festival

/PRNewswire/ -- Today the Jekyll Island Authority announced they will produce the 2010 Georgia Coast Birding & Nature Festival, scheduled for October 7-10 on Jekyll Island. The Authority has hired Lydia Thompson as the festival's Event Coordinator.

Started in 2002, this marks the eighth year of the Georgia Coast Birding and Nature Festival. Annually this event brings bird watchers from around the world to Jekyll Island and the Brunswick-Golden Isles area to view the numerous migrating bird species.

"The Georgia Ornithological Society and the Coastal Georgia Audubon Society have done a terrific job executing the festival for the past seven years. We are happy to take over responsibilities with their support to ensure the festival's continued success," said Eric Garvey, Chief Communications Officer for the Jekyll Island Authority.

The Georgia Coast Birding & Nature Festival features numerous field trips, exhibits, and educational sessions related to birding, wildlife viewing, and environmental awareness. Experienced guides show visitors how to spot various birds, learn their calls, and identify their species. Quick field trips are also offered to young bird watchers to introduce them to the hobby and instill an appreciation for the environment.

"It is due to the enthusiasm and passion of our partners and volunteers that the Georgia Coast Birding & Nature Festival continues to grow," said Lydia Thompson. "I cannot wait to work with them again this year as we continue to foster a love for birding while raising awareness of our coastal environment."

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Fitzgerald Wild Chicken Festival Struts its Stuff (and Success)

Fitzgerald has reason to crow over its Wild Chicken Festival.

The annual celebration set for March 19-20 is going strong 10 years after organizers converted the former rattlesnake roundup to focus on the town’s wild Burmese chicken population.

Barry Peavey, festival co-chair with Ricky Haggard, calls the switch in 2001 “really the best move the festival made.” “It’s much more community oriented,” Peavey said.

The Georgia Wildlife Resources Division of the Department of Natural Resources applauded the change, noting declining eastern diamondback rattlesnake populations and the illegal and destructive practice of gassing gopher tortoise burrows to collect rattlers. The division now announces the festival in partnership with the community.

Peavey has high expectations for turnout in 2010, despite a recession that has affected financial support. “Last year, we had in excess of 6,000,” he said. “This year, if there’s good weather, I’m expecting 8,000.”

Festival features vary from the Kiwanis Wild Chicken 5k Sprint to a Miss Wild Chicken Pageant, a crowing competition, wing-eating showdown and a chicken soup art contest. Crafts, food and concerts will also grace a historic downtown district rich in blooming azaleas and, of course, wild chickens. Admission is free, although there are fees for some activities.

The main draw at rattlesnake roundups, which are still held in Georgia in Claxton and Whigham, is diamondback rattlesnakes collected by snake hunters. Yet, although started by communities to remove the threat of rattlers near houses and businesses, today’s roundups include only a fraction of so-called nuisance snakes, said John Jensen, a senior wildlife biologist with the Wildlife Resources Division’s Nongame Conservation Section. Most of the rattlesnakes come from areas far away and even from “wild” lands where they pose virtually no danger to people, Jensen said.

“The roundup aspect of these festivals today is so limited in participation and interest that it could easily be replaced with captive snakes without impacting the success of the events, and without contributing to further declines of this magnificent predator and the many other species that seek shelter in gopher tortoise burrows,” he said.

Fitzgerald and Ben Hill County sport diverse wildlife and the state’s only resident population of wild Burmese chickens. The chickens were stocked across Georgia in the 1960s as a game bird for hunting. Populations dwindled and even disappeared elsewhere, but they prospered in Fitzgerald.

Switching the theme of the city’s festival has spread awareness of the ecologically important role rattlesnakes play as natural predators in Ben Hill County and surrounding areas, Jensen said. The hope is that other rattlesnake roundups will also convert to wildlife and family friendly festivals, or at least drop the roundup aspect and focus on information entertainment regarding rattlesnakes.

The Wild Chicken festival, which the Fitzgerald Jaycees play host to, always includes a Love ’em or Hate ’em poll on the chickens, which, according to www.wildchickenfestival.com, wake residents in the morning, occasionally slow traffic and possibly keep bug populations down.

Peavey said the Love ’ems always win the poll.

Festival organizers, he added, “don’t take sides.”

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Spring Travel Fun! 74-Year-Old Atlanta Dogwood Festival Focuses on New Features

/PRNewswire/ -- No question - 2009 was good to the Atlanta Dogwood Festival. With a homecoming to Piedmont Park, successful new features like the International Stage, Friday Night Comedy Show and Friends of Dogwood Pavilion, the city's oldest festival seemed shiny and new. As a result, the Dogwood Festival was honored with a variety of awards this fall including Readers' Pick award for Best Annual Event (Creative Loafing), Readers' Pick for Favorite Festival (Atlanta Magazine), Best Annual Event (Georgia Magazine) and a Silver Award for Best Community Outreach Program for the International Stage from the International Festivals and Events Association's Pinnacle Awards.

LOCATION: The 74th Annual Atlanta Dogwood Festival takes place in Atlanta's beautiful Piedmont Park. On April 16, 17 and 18, 2010, attendees will enjoy fine art, live entertainment ranging from music to comedy, a variety of food offerings and the fantastic Atlanta spring weather. http://www.dogwood.org/

ARTS: The 2010 Atlanta Dogwood Festival Artist Market participants have been selected from the largest number of exhibitor applications in Dogwood history. The Artist Market welcomes fine artists from throughout the country and will include a special section featuring Georgia artists.

The Dogwood Festival is particularly proud of its High School Art Exhibit, a community-oriented special feature of the festival, which presents the best works created by high school art students.

GLOBAL: Last year, Dogwood went international! The International Stage and decorated golf carts were such hits, that the festival is bringing them back and then some. Look for more exciting and maybe unusual performances on the International Stage, visit the International Village and get a picture next to the golf cart representing your favorite foreign holiday destination without even having to leave town. Each golf cart will be decorated by a local international organization or consulate to bring the world to Atlanta!

SPECTATORS: Each year, the Atlanta Dogwood Festival offers entertainment throughout the weekend. As always, the Main Stage at the 2010 festival will include performers from a variety of musical genres. Dogwood attendees can also enjoy the popular live dog show on the lawn or hit the Friday Night Comedy show at the Lake Clara Meer stage; last year's inaugural event sold out, so get tickets early.

FOR FOODIES: The "Friends of Dogwood Pavilion," a ticketed event that has become a popular feature of the Dogwood Festival, will be open Saturday and Sunday. The Pavilion pairs fare from top local restaurants with wines and beers to show the upscale side of the city's longest-running outdoor festival. Tickets to Friends of Dogwood can be purchased in advance at http://www.dogwood.org/ or at the door.

KIDS: Designed just for the younger festival visitors, the Kid's Village has become a Dogwood favorite for families. This interactive zone comes complete with hands-on art projects, special kid-friendly displays and hours of entertainment for children. Spider Jump, anyone?

ENTRANCE: Just as it has been for the past 73 years, the 74th Annual Atlanta Dogwood Festival is free!

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Huge yard Sale! Celebrate Family Fall Festival at Historic Indian Springs October 31

Looking for a really good yard sale?

The Historic Village at Indian Springs is having a Huge Event on October 31st, traditionally known as Halloween. The Village is giving away $500.00 in CASH PRIZES for the best costumes. Now, everyone knows you have to be home on this Night of Trick-or-Treat, so this event starts at 7:00 AM and closes at 3:00 PM. Visitors can find some funky things to wear, paint pumpkins, enjoy homemade pies at the Cafe' , drink cider, and just enjoy being outdoors while they find those really awesome bargains on clothes, furniture, and all the things you need to buy before the holidays.

All the Village Shops will be open and every store will have sale merchandise during this event. If you want to sell, a booth can be yours for just $5.00. Stop in at THE BIG CHIEF COUNTRY STORE or call 770-775-5350 to register, but do it today, because space is limited.

To get an early start, folks may want to stay in one of the vintage cottages in the Village, or there's camping, RV space and cabins inside the Indian Springs State Park across the street. Start a new tradition - Bring the whole family, enjoy the lake, go hiking, and pick up some great buys. Ms Frankie Willis is looking forward to a big crowd. "People love to be outdoors when the weather starts to cool.

Now is the best time to enjoy The Whimsical Botanical Gardens with the kids. Be sure to visit Daisy Pearl's Fashion Boutique and LadyBug and Tadpole's Children Store.. We have just brought in the new fall styles. Plan on having lunch at Pinky's Parlor & Cafe'. We will be serving breakfast and lunch with homemade pies and cold beverages. " Mrs. Lee's Stagecoach Sweetstop is where friends meet and enjoy rich ice cream and homemade fudge. "We will have warm apple cider ready for you -but the weather is never too cool for ice cream, " says Ms Diann. "And don't forget, the children can paint pumpkins, draw and do art activities all day for free at Generations Gallery - and then come have ice cream here. It is a lot of fun."

"The writers are meeting every Saturday, and on the day of the Yard Sale we have a special guest, Rita Lewis, who will be talking about her new book, " Excuse Me, Your Honor..." , exlains Andi Kulp. "Rita came to our very first "Open Mike" at our Writers Conference two years ago and here she is - with her first book completed."

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All-Star Southern Gospel Concerts Headline Dollywood’s National Gospel & Harvest Celebration Presented by Humana

(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nowhere does fall make its arrival so abundantly known as in the Smoky Mountains, and Dollywood’s annual National Gospel & Harvest Celebration presented by Humana (Oct. 2-31; closed Tuesdays & Thursdays) honors the season with special music, crafts and food.

Southern gospel music takes top billing during the monthlong festival with more than 200 free concerts. Some of the artists appearing include Mike & Kelly Bowling (Oct. 2 & 3), Gold City (Oct. 4 & 5), The McKameys (Oct. 9 & 10), The Ball Brothers (Oct. 9 & 10), Brian Free & Assurance (Oct. 11 & 12), Michael Combs (Oct. 12), Legacy Five (Oct. 11 & 12), The Kingsmen (Oct. 16 & 17), Mark Bishop (Oct. 16 & 17), The Crist Family (Oct. 18 & 19), The Greenes (Oct. 18 & 19), The Inspirations (Oct. 23 & 24), The Whisnants (Oct. 23 & 24), Mark Trammell Trio (Oct. 25 & 26), The Isaacs (Oct. 25 & 26), Karen Peck & New River (Oct. 30 & 31) and The Perrys (Oct. 30 & 31). Plus, Dollywood’s own award-winning Kingdom Heirs quartet performs daily.

Southern gospel and bluegrass music share a common ground with great songs deeply rooted in beautiful vocal harmonies and a powerful message. In addition to a lineup of gospel music’s most popular acts, the festival welcomes special gospel performances by Riders in the Sky (Oct. 2 & 3), Chris Hillman & Herb Pedersen (Oct. 4 & 5), Dailey & Vincent (Oct. 18 & 19), and The Gibson Brothers (Oct. 14 & 21).

All concerts are included with Dollywood admission. A complete concert lineup is available at dollywood.com.

The country’s most talented crafters visit Dollywood throughout the festival, showcasing a one-of-a-kind display of beautiful and unique artistry as well as up-close demonstrations as they create their works of art. Craft demonstrations include woodturning, spinning, dyeing, basket weaving, wool rug hooking, papermaking, and weaving. Crafters also will make hats, sorghum, fiddles, Windsor chairs, rugs, woodworking tools, and rope. Other featured crafters’ booths will showcase stained glass, handmade jewelry, woodcarvings, glassworks, dulcimers, harps, oil and acrylic artwork, games, toys and more.

Dollywood’s 18th annual Woodcarving Showcase and Competition, one of the Southeast’s top woodcarving events, takes place Oct. 2-4 with daily demonstrations by master carvers who showcase this unique art form through a variety of carving styles. This year’s competition features a special competition honoring Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s 75th anniversary. The exhibit will be displayed throughout the event. Each day also features a special carving competition. The Team Carving Championship is slated for Oct. 2 (2 p.m.) The Whittling Competition takes place Oct. 3 (1:30-3:30 p.m.) and the always-fun Pumpkin Carving Competition wraps things up on Oct. 4 (1:30-3 p.m.)

Rusty’s Trailblazing Chuckwagon returns to this year’s festival, bringing with him the nostalgia of the Western frontier as Rusty shares stories of feeding hungry cowboys from his completely restored 1901 John Deere wagon. From “tongue to tailgate,” Rusty’s working wagon is an accurate model of chuck wagons that date back to the 1860s. His trusty Dutch oven is the vessel through which Rusty prepares a variety of campfire dishes that are slow-cooked over an open fire. And don’t miss Rusty as he shares the secrets behind the age-old technique of cowboy coffee.

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Need a Bluegrass Fix? Just go to Dallas September 11 and 12

T2F Note: We just love to stomp our twinkle toes in time to the music. So come on out this weekend as we proudly present the highly coveted "Fayette Front Page Day Tripper Award" to this great bluegrass event.

There's no need for Georgians to go to Texas for your bluegrass fix. Just drive on over to Dallas, Georgia, for the annual Raccoon Creek Bluegrass Festival this weekend, September 11 and 12.

The musical event is located off of GA Hwy 61. Take Braswell Mountain Rd. You should be able to follow the signs to Music Park Path.

Friday, September 11th
6:00 Old Mill Road Band
6:45 Papa's Prayer
7:30 Cross Ties Band
8:15 Frances Mooney & Fontanna Sunset
9:00 The Gary Waldrep Band
10:00 Ramblin' Grass

Saturday, September 12th
12:30 Old Mill Road Band
1:15 Cross Ties Band
2:00 Bent Creek
2:45 Potter's Clay
3:30 Peachtree Station
4:15 Papa's Prayer
5:00 The Gary Waldrep Band
5:45 Ramblin' Grass
6:30 Cross Ties Band
7:15 Bent Creek
8:00 Peachtree Station
8:45 Frances Mooney & Fontanna Sunset
9:30 The Gary Waldrep Band

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Thousands Expected on Jekyll Island, Ga. for the Country's Only Celebration Dedicated to Iconic Southern Dish: Shrimp & Grits

/PRNewswire/ -- What was once a simple food pairing deeply rooted in the South, Shrimp & Grits has become a menu-must for exclusive restaurants across the country. The only event in the country dedicated to this quintessential Southern dish kicks off Sept 18: "Shrimp & Grits: The Wild Georgia Shrimp Festival."

Set in the Jekyll Island Club Hotel's landmark historic district, the popular festival boasts amateur and professional cooking competitions, shrimp boat excursions, shrimp eating contests, cooking demonstrations, races, entertainment, and much more.

"The Jekyll Island Shrimp & Grits Festival is a great time to enjoy the beauty of Jekyll Island while dining on delicious coastal cuisine caught right off the Georgia coast," said Beth Burnsed, Director of Special Events for Jekyll Island. "We began the Shrimp & Grits Festival as a way to showcase Jekyll Island and Wild Georgia Shrimp. As more and more restaurants began serving shrimp & grits, we realized that we were at the forefront of a growing trend. We are thrilled to host such a prominent and highly anticipated signature event."

In celebration, September has been declared "Wild Georgia Shrimp Month" on Jekyll Island and the neighboring Golden Isles, and some of the South's finest professional and amateur chefs will be competing for the coveted title of "Best Shrimp & Grits" recipe in the country. "Y'all Come!"

Set amid Jekyll Island's picturesque Jekyll Island Club National Landmark Historic District, the festival will kick off on Friday, September 18th at 5:30 p.m. with a "$3 Shrimp Sample Night," where participants will have the opportunity to taste recipes from vendors throughout the region.

On Saturday guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the Amateur Cooking Competition, which offers mouth-watering opportunities to taste and judge ten shrimp & grits dishes prepared by aspiring and self-taught cooks throughout the region. Festivities continue on Sunday when the winner of the Professional Cooking Competition will be announced in the afternoon.

Visitors can purchase VIP tickets in advance or learn more about the weekend festivities by visiting: www.jekyllisland.com/shrimpandgrits.

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11th Annual Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival at Callaway Gardens®

Are you lamenting the end of another summer? Worry not…at Callaway Gardens®, things are looking up …way up …with the return of the Callaway Gardens® Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival for its eleventh year.

Set for September 4-6, 2009, this annual Balloon Festival has something for everyone, from the soaring, majestic, colorful balloons to Callaway Gardens’ unique mix of natural beauty, to its endless helpings of multi-generational activities and events. In fact, when it comes to family fun at Callaway Gardens, the sky is the limit!

Festivities kick off Friday night when guests flock to Robin Lake Beach for the Balloon Glow. Upbeat live music sets the mood as balloons inflate as the sun sets and show their individual colors as they glow against the gorgeous evening sky as guests shout “ready, set…glow!”

On both Saturday and Sunday mornings, it is up, up and away as the balloons head for the open skies (weather permitting) at sunrise and sunset. On the ground, the action continues as Robin Lake Beach plays host to a family festival featuring activities and events for all ages. Choose from tethered balloon rides (weather permitting, fee), a rock climbing wall (fee), bungee jump (fee), sandcastle building, swimming, miniature golf, kite building, t-shirt tie-dyeing (fee), a variety of kids’ craft activities and more.

For the second year, the Radio Control Model Boat and Seaplane Regatta will take the waters of both Robin and Martin lakes. This event, created by a resident of the Longleaf at Callaway community, will include fast-electrics, sailboats and utility boats with demonstrations, competitions and more. More than 150 boats are expected to participate in the array of activities taking place. For more information, visit the Callaway Gardens website.

Don’t miss the very popular Classic Car Show on Saturday. In 2009, more than 100 cars are expected to roll through the gates and add even more color to the already spectacular event.

Meanwhile, the athletically-inclined can enjoy their own adventures thanks to the Callaway Gardens Fitness Series, including a 5K run and Triathlon on Sunday morning. To register, visit www.active.com.

Want to be a part of the high flying balloon action? Sign up to be on a Balloon Chase Crew. Crew members are assigned to pilots and are able to assist the Balloon Team throughout the weekend. For more information, contact Greg Brannen at 706-663-5043 or gbrannen@callawaygardens.com.

Festival admission is $20 per adult, $10 per child ages 6-12, and children five and under are admitted free (admission prices include tax). This price includes access to Callaway Gardens’ and its many attractions. To witness the morning launches, the U.S. Hwy. 27 Beach gate will open at 6:00 a.m. both days. As an incentive to get out early, admission is half-price both Saturday and Sunday mornings before 9:00 a.m.

Stay around and enjoy the entire weekend with friends and family. Ask about the Sky High Hot Air Balloon Weekend Package for two adults and two children 12. This offer includes admission to the Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival, Callaway Gardens and its many attractions; a dinner plate on Friday night from one of the Beach Pavilion vendors during the Balloon Glow; four tickets to make tie-dye T-shirts at the Festival on Saturday or Sunday; two tickets for either the Bungee Jump, Rock Climbing Wall or Xcelerator Water Slide; use of the Mountain Creek Inn Fitness Center and your choice of lodging options.

Don’t delay. Call now for reservations at 1-800-CALLAWAY (225-5292) or make reservations online at www.callawaygardens.com.

Callaway Gardens®, is in Pine Mountain, Ga., 60 minutes southwest of Atlanta and 30 minutes north of Columbus. For additional information, call 1-800-CALLAWAY (225-5292) or visit www.callawaygardens.com.

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Experience Mardi Gras like a New Orleans Native

Dauphine Orleans Hotel Parade Package Includes Rare Opportunity to Ride in Krewe of Orpheus

The Dauphine Orleans Hotel is a prime place to stay for French Quarter fun and excitement, and the 2010 Mardi Gras festival (February 12-17, 2010) is going to be one of the most exciting events all year. Ideally situated one block from Bourbon Street and four blocks from Canal Street’s parade route, guests of the hotel will enjoy convenient access to all New Orleans Mardi Gras festivities.

The hotel is offering a special six-day Krewe of Orpheus Parade Package that includes a unique opportunity to ride in one of the most famous and prestigious parades of Carnival season.

The Dauphine Orleans Hotel’s Krewe of Orpheus Parade Package, for arrival on February 12, 2010, includes:*

-Five (5) nights accommodation in a Premium Courtyard guestroom
-Two tickets to ride in Harry Connick, Jr.’s Krewe of Orpheus Parade (Monday, February 15, 2010)
-Parade Day lunch for two
-Complimentary throws and Krewe costume, to ride in and to keep
-Complimentary refreshments during the parade ride
-Two tickets to the Orpheuscapade after-party at the New Orleans Convention Center
-Complimentary valet parking during your stay
-Complimentary daily deluxe continental breakfast
-Complimentary welcome beverage in the historic May Baily’s Lounge

*Availability is limited. The 6 day/5 night package is $5,492.65 double occupancy, $3,530.65 single occupancy, all taxes included. Package must be fully pre-paid and is non-cancelable. Rules and liability waiver are required to ride in the parade.

To check availability or reserve the Krewe of Orpheus Parade Package at the Dauphine Orleans Hotel, please use promotion code MGP and visit www.dauphineorleans.com or call (800) 521-7111. The 6-day/5-night package may be reserved for arrival on February 12, 2010.

About the Dauphine Orleans Hotel
The Dauphine Orleans Hotel is located in the heart of the historic French Quarter at 415 Rue Dauphine, just steps from the bustle of Bourbon Street and antique shops on Royal Street. A multi-million dollar renovation of the 111-room hotel in June 2008 has created a new era of elegance in this 18th century landmark. Perfect for both business and leisure travelers, the Dauphine Orleans offers modern amenities such as wireless Internet, Tempur-Pedic™ bedding, fitness and exercise room, and a saltwater pool. For more information or to make a reservation, please call (800) 521-7111 or (504) 586-1800, or visit www.dauphineorleans.com.
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Savannah's 4th Annual Fiesta Latina

Saturday, the 20th of June, Savannah’s River Street will once again witness a transformation as Latin American Services Organization (LASO) and the City of Savannah’s Office of Cultural Affairs and others present the 4th Annual Fiesta Latina on the Río from 1:00 pm ‘til 9:00 pm. On that day, the hustle and bustle around Rousakis Plaza on River Street will take on a distinctive Latino flavor, with the sights and smells of Latin America and the Caribbean.

“¡FIESTA!” will fill the senses as it is interpreted by the 20 countries that make up Latin America. Live DJ’s and bands will bring the crowd to its feet with the rhythms of salsa, merengüe, cumbia, norteño, bachata, reggaetón and more while regional dance troupes put those rhythms into motion. Featured musical artists include last year’s popular “Serenata Band” from Atlanta, as well as many well-known local and regional artists. A stroll around the perimeter will further awaken the senses with artists sharing their memories of life south of the border – as well as their new lives among us - through stories, art and crafts. Venders will offer typical foods from their countries of origin. Community non-profits will offer information of service to Hispanics and their neighbors.

Manuel Cabrera, president of LASO’s board, “We are grateful to the City for once again conferring this opportunity to present our culture to our neighbors and friends through the Fiesta Latina. Hispanics may be recent arrivals or long-term residents, but we are all proud of our cultural traditions, and look forward to sharing them with others. We are equally proud of our new home, Savannah, and its tradition as a vibrant, welcoming, multi-cultural city. LASO has identified a broad representation of the many facets of Latino Culture: favorites from past years and new artists. We invite our neighbors and visitors to Savannah to join us on the 20th as we celebrate a ‘Fiesta on the River’.”

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13th Annual CEWC Outdoor Festival and JAKES Day-May 16t

Looking for a way for the whole family to enjoy the outdoors this spring? Come to Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center’s Outdoor Festival and JAKES Day Saturday, May 16! This fun-filled event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center’s (CEWC) Discovery Area in Mansfield. Sponsors for the Outdoor Festival include the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) and the Georgia Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF).

Admission is free and includes an array of activities that focus on wildlife, conservation efforts and outdoor recreational opportunities in Georgia. Children can try their hands at archery, fishing, shooting sports, and can go on a mini-boat ride with a WRD Conservation Ranger. Show your spirit for the outdoors by getting your face decorated with wildlife art! Presentations scheduled for this event include puppet shows from Keep Covington/Newton Beautiful, retriever demonstrations, and live snake and bird of prey programs. Several exhibitors from wildlife-related organizations also will be on hand to give out information and goodies to those interested in expanding their outdoor horizons.

The first 500 kids will receive a free t-shirt and a free hot dog lunch from the Georgia Chapter of NWTF (adults can eat for a nominal fee). For kids under 17 years old, memberships in the NWTF’s JAKES club (Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics, & Sportsmanship) will be available. Door prizes will be given away at the close of the event too! For a bonus prize, be sure to stop by the Visitors’ Center for a fun Museum Scavenger Hunt. Participants will get a free wildlife poster (limited quantity) and discounts on several gift gallery items (excludes hunting & fishing licenses and Charlie Elliott books).

For further information, visit www.georgiawildlife.com and choose the “Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center” quick link, or call CEWC at (770) 784-3059. To get to CEWC, take I-20 to Exit 98. Travel south on Highway 11, go through Mansfield and continue three miles south to the entrance at Marben Farms Road on the left. Then follow the Outdoor Festival signs to the Discovery Area. Hope to see you there!

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