Darwin's birthday is approaching and University of North Georgia has a surprise party panned. Dr. Daniel Promislow of UGA is scheduled to give two talks on a topic related to evolution. He's arriving on Feb. 12, Darwin's birthday, and will give a scientific lecture on "A network perspective on the biology of aging" during the day, and a talk that is appropriate to a general audience on "The evolution of aging" the same evening. The evening talk is free and open to the community, and we welcome any visitors who would like to attend.
In addition to the lectures, they're hosting a contest called "Extinction with Distinction." "We are asking anyone on campus to create an artistic tribute to their favorite extinct organism and enter it in our contest," said contest organizers. "We're accepting three categories of entries including poetry, stationary visual art, and moving visual art, and all entries will be exhibited or performed on Feb. 14. We only ask that submissions are original and adhere to the rules of the contest (which can be found on our website)." The winner will receive two tickets to the Georgia Aquarium. The winner will be chosen by a panel of judges that will include two students and two faculty members. After the winner is chosen, they will close the Darwin Days events by offering free birthday cake.
Monthly Habitat surplus sale Feb. 8-9
Habitat for Humanity holds a surplus sale of home construction and remodeling supplies (including tools and decorating items) on the second weekend of each month. The items are available Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 16 Westbrook Dr. (next to Chestatee Animal Hospital on Highway 52 East). Visa, MasterCard and Discover accepted. All proceeds benefit Habitat.
CASA open house rescheduled for Feb. 8
Enotah CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), with volunteers serving as advocates for abused and neglected children, will hold an open house for interested volunteers from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 8, at the First Presbyterian Church in Cleveland. A new training class to prepare child advocates to speak out on behalf of the abused and neglected children in our community begins in February. CASA volunteers are ordinary people who have a profound sense of caring for children. The local office is located at 56 Short Street in the old Health Department building. www.EnotahCASA.org, information@enotahcasa.org, 706-864-0300
Pilot Club Chili Cook-off Feb. 9
The Heart of Gold Pilot Club of Lumpkin and White counties will host a Chili Cook-Off at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 9, at the Roy Ash Community Center, 89 Jarrard Street, Cleveland (behind United Community Bank). Vote for the best chili for $5, and stay for dinner with all the trimmings for $5. A silent auction will be held after dinner. To enter a pot of chili, call Jackie Townley, 706-835-9136, or Morgan Wheeler, 404-226-7228. Proceeds will go toward the purchase of a GPS device for a yet-to-be-selected Alzheimer patient from Lumpkin or White county.
Rape Response Volunteer training Starts Sat.
Rape Response, a United Way agency serving victims of sexual violence in this region of northeast Georgia, is accepting applications for interested women to work with survivors of sexual assault. Volunteers are trained to respond to crisis calls and accompany assault survivors to the hospital, so they must live within 30 minutes of Northeast Georgia Medical Center. Training will be held in Gainesville for sessions beginning Saturday, Feb. 9, and continuing Thursday, Feb. 21, Saturday, Feb. 23, and Thursday, Feb. 28. Saturday sessions run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursday sessions, 5:30-8 p.m. No previous experience necessary. Background check and 24 hours of training are required. Contact Kate Hoffmann, Volunteer Coordinator, 770-503-7273, or apply online at www.raperesponse.com.
all invited to Fat Tuesday Pancake Dinner
The high school youth of St. Luke’s Catholic Church invite the community to a fundraising pancake dinner from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 12. The cost is $3 per person and $10 per family. Proceeds from the dinner go towards a pilgrimage the teens will take to New Orleans this summer. They will visit some historic Catholic sites as well as spend two days in service to the community.
Great Decisions discussion group upcoming
Great Decisions discussion group will meet in the Lumpkin County Library meeting room on Wednesday evenings from Feb. 13 through April 24. Foreign policy issues are discussed, based on background material in briefing books available from the Foreign Policy Association (www.greatdecisions.org). Topics this year include Egypt, NATO, Myanmar, Iran, the future of the Euro, and others. Anyone interested in learning more about foreign policy issues is invited to attend. Judy Sousa, 706-864-5329. (2/27)
REcycling event: Be Transformers of Future
Be Transformers of the Future: Let’s Talk Trash is an event offering education on recycling and entertainment for the whole family. The free event is set for 3-5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 23, at the Lumpkin County Parks & Rec and sponsored by We Recycle Lumpkin County. The event will feature displays related to recycling, music, children’s activities and food.
INVEST IN THE FUTURE GALA Feb. 22
Lumpkin County Retired Educators Association is sponsoring a Gala Celebration to benefit teachers and students in Lumpkin County schools. The event, open to all, will be held at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 22, at the Dahlonega Market Place on the square. Heavy hors d’oeuvres (enough for a meal), wine and soft drinks, dancing to The Remember When Band and a silent auction will be part of the event. Cost is $30/person or $220 for a table of 8. Call 706-864-2962 or 706-429-3415 for tickets.
Defensive Driving course Feb. 26
An AARP Defensive Driving Course will be held at the Dahlonega Baptist Church, 234 Hawkins Street, (rear entrance) on Tuesday, Feb. 26, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with an hour lunch break. Completion of the course may entitle students to an auto insurance discount. Students need not be 55 and AARP membership is not required. Registration recommended. $14/person, $2 AARP discount. 706-864-4383
Children & Young Adults
Trout camp scholarships available
Gold Rush Chapter of Trout Unlimited is accepting applications for Trout Camp 2013. Trout Camp is conducted by Georgia Council Trout Unlimited and will be held June 9-14 in Clayton. Boys and girls ages 12-15 years old will learn to tie flies, cast a fly rod, go fishing in local streams, and take home all equipment needed to go fly fishing. Some scholarships ($450) are available from the local TU chapter, Gold Rush. All applications must be received by March 1. For information and applications, please contact drtrout@bellsouth.net.
DBC preschool registering for 2013-14
Registration is now open for the Dahlonega Baptist Church’s Sonshine Weekly Preschool for its 2013-14 session. Discount for fees received by Feb. 15. Programs serve children ages 1-5 in classes that run from 9 a.m. to noon according to the county school calendar. Forms and information at www.dbch.org. Stacy Mizer, 706-864-3676, Ext. 114, stacy@dbch.org
Head Start/Pre K applications open March 1
Lumpkin County Head Start/Pre-K will begin taking applications
March 1 for its 2013-14 program year. Children will need to be age 3
or 4 by Sept. 1 in order to qualify. The Lumpkin County Head
Start/PreK program welcomes children with disabilities and does not discriminate based on race, gender, national origin or religion. The following information is required to complete an application: child’s birth certificate, immunization certificate, income verification for the past 12 months, social security card, and proof of residency. 706-864-3456
At the Library
Lumpkin County Library, 706-864-3668
www.chestateelibrary.org
FEBRUARY CLOSING: Closed Monday, February 18 in observance of President’s Day
HOURS: M-W 11:30-5:30, TH 12:30-7, FRI-SAT 10:30-3:30
Facebook. “Become a Fan” on the library’s Website
eBooks: Downloadable at the library’s Website for Kindle, Nook, Android and more.
Free Online Classes: Register with your library card at www.chestateelibrary.org
Zinio! Dozens of popular magazines available in digital format
Winter Storytime—Movers & Shakers, 2 p.m. Wednesdays through Feb. 27. Songs, finger plays, crafts and stories designed for children ages 2-5. No pre-registration is required except for groups over 5 who are asked to call two days in advance.
Tween Candy BINGO, Thursday, Feb. 14, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Try your hand at a round of BINGO! Mark your card with delicious candy, all the while playing for the BIG candy bars. Bring a friend! Grades 3-5
Races
5K/walk/fun run for joggers, strollers, kids
This fundraiser for the Dahlonega United Methodist Church’s Mothers Morning Out and Pre-K Program will begin at LCHS. The 5K ($20 by Feb. 12/$25 on race day) begins at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 16; 1 mile ($10) at 2:45 p.m. and Tot Trot 50-yard dash for age 5 and under (free), at 3 p.m. For those who wish to contribute, but not race, donations or sponsorships are available. Register online by Feb. 12, or beginning at 12:30 p.m. on race day. For more information, call Angie or Dana at the Preschool Office, 706-864-8521 dumcmmo@gmail.com. www.active.com
North Georgia Scrub Run 5K Feb. 23
This Certified Peachtree Road Race Qualifier/USATF Certified run will take place Feb. 23 on the University of North Georgia main campus in Dahlonega. Registration opens at 8 a.m., race at 9 a.m. Entry fee includes a T-shirt, snacks, fluids, and medals for the winners. The event is a fundraiser for the North Georgia nursing graduating class of 2013. Charley Whitmire, cawhit6328@northgeorgia.edu (1/16, 1/30, 2/13, 2/20)
Free Services
Free food to be distributed Saturday
Waypont Center will host a Free Food Distribution Saturday, Feb. 9, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. (while supplies last) at Lumpkin County Middle School upper parking lot, 44 School Drive. No eligibility requirement except that you must be a resident of Lumpkin County and be willing to provide your name and address. First come, first served.
FRee Tax help for seniors, limited income
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide offers free help to older taxpayers and people with limited income. Free tax preparation and electronic filing is available from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesdays, through April 10 at the Dahlonega Senior Center, 266 Mechanicsville Road.
Music/Drama/Film & More
Silver Singers free concert Saturday
The Silver Singers of Dahlonega will be rocking out for a free concert at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 9, on the Welcome Center Plaza. Come enjoy the lively mix of Jerry Lee Lewis, Queen, The Beatles and more of your favorites. 706-482-2707
Country/Bluegrass Benefit Concert Feb. 17
The Lumpkin County Retired Educators Association’s “Invest in the Future” Task Force will hold a night of Country & Bluegrass Music in the Lumpkin County High School theater at 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 17. The concert will feature Lumpkin County graduate John Martin and the Southern Drive Band, Mayor Gary McCullough’s BS Band, the Buzzard Mountain Boys, and the Georgia Pick & Bow Old Time Band. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and are available at the door. Proceeds will directly benefit teachers in Lumpkin County classrooms. Concessions will be available at the show and concession sales will benefit the Pick & Bow Traditional Music School.
Church Choir Festival at DUMC
Dahlonega United Methodist Church will host a Church Choir Festival at 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 24. Choirs from Christ the King Lutheran Church (Cumming), Dahlonega United Methodist Church, St. Elizabeth’s Episcopal Church (Dahlonega), McEver Road United Methodist Church (Oakwood), and the University of North Georgia (Singers, Le Belle Voci, and Patriot Choir & Singers Men) will participate. The Festival Director is Dr. John M. Broman, UNG Director of Choral Activities, and the Festival Accompanist is Mary Beth Hutcheson. The afternoon program is free and the public is invited to attend.
University of North Georgia EVENTS
Pickin’ Porch Old Time Jam: An old-time music jam is held from 12:30-2 p.m. every Thursday at the university’s Vickery House. Musicians of all levels are welcome to bring fiddles, banjos and more for a friendly exploration of the traditional music of Appalachia. Others are invited to listen. Jon Mehlferber, 706-867-2832, jpmehlferber@northgeorgia.edu
Symphonic Band concert, Thursday, Feb. 7, 8 p.m. Hoag Auditorium
“Banned Music in the Nazi Era,” Friday, Feb. 8, 7 p.m., Gloria
Shott Auditorium, Nix Fine Arts Center. Dr. Lawrence Sherr, Kennesaw State University’s composer-in-residence and scholar of music and the Holocaust, will present a concert and lecture. This event is part of the traveling exhibit, Fighting the Fires of Hate, now on view at the university’s Library Technology Center,
and is made possible through the support of the North Georgia’s Department of Performing Arts.
Jazz Band concert, Tuesday, Feb. 12, 8 p.m., Shott Auditorium
Caruso’s, 19B East Main Street, 706-864-4664 www.diningindahlonega.com
Every Sunday, 5 p.m.: Texas Hold ’Em Poker
Every Mon., Tues., Wed., 7:30 p.m.: Texas Hold ’Em Poker
Every Friday, 9 p.m.: Karaoke & Dance Night
Every Saturday, 9 p.m.: Karaoke, Dance and Contest night
The Crimson Moon Café, 24 North Park Street, 706-864-3982, www.thecrimsonmoon.com
Wednesdays, 7 p.m. Tom & Juli. Hundreds of cover songs from the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s while you dine. Free.
Friday, Feb. 8, 7-9 p.m.: Grand re-opening with local favorites The Buzzard Mountain Boys. $12. Joe “Bob” Matteson and Jim “Bob” White are the Bob Brothers—the Buzzard Mountain Boys. These two guys play an amusing selection of brother duet, old-time music, and early bluegrass inspired songs, interspersed with enough corny humor to warm your heart and take you back to the days of the traveling minstrels. Both musicians are residents of Lumpkin County and are fixtures in the North Georgia traditional music community. They are heavily involved in the promotion of Appalachian Music in the region. Free food samples. http://www.buzzardmountainboys.com
Saturdays: Traditional Jam, 2-5 p.m.: Bring your instruments and/or voices and join in on/around the stage, or have a seat and just listen as a 90-plus-year-old “pickin’ and grinnin” tradition continues. Free.
Saturday, Feb. 9, 8:30 p.m.: Jason Connelly Band. $10. What started as a one-piece singer-songwriter act in 2009, has now become a growing project. Mid 2010, Jason Connelly and Keith Hirsch launched The Jason Connelly Band, a sound caught somewhere in between the old sounds of the late and great Ray Charles and the new sounds of the soulful, yet modern, Ray Lamontagne. In April 2012, The Jason Connelly Band added Ben Kriff, a dynamic lead player with rock and blues roots. Ben’s soulful leads and Keith’s harmonizing and explosive percussion paired with Jason’s unmatched voice that ranges from full on gospel to funk, soul, and country all wrapped up in The Jason Connelly Band. www.thejasonconnellyband.com
Sunday, Feb. 10: Second Sunday Old Time Jam. 2-5 p.m. Enjoy acoustic mountain music. Free
Dante’s American fusion Cuisine, 84-A Public Square North, 706-864-4091
Friday & Saturday, Feb. 8 & 9, 4:30-7:30 p.m.: Dahlonega’s own “Banjo Man”—Vern Bowdish—performing greatest hits, country, folk, bluegrass/gospel. Requests welcome from over 700 favorites.
Holly Theatre, 69 West Main Street. Business office open 9-4 Mondays. 706-864-3759, www.hollytheater.com
Valentine’s Day: Russo & Noe: See story this page
The Little Mermaid, presented by the Holly Performance Academy, Feb. 22-24 and March 1-3. Fridays and Saturdays at 7 p.m., and Sundays at 3 p.m. Adults $14, Children & Students $10 (no fees)
Johnny B’s Beef & Brew, 438 West Main Street, 706-864-2400
Thursdays: College Night
Fridays: Live entertainment
Tuesdays: Country Western Music night
Friday, Feb. 8: Stoned Sandwich
The Oar House, 3072 Highway 52, 706-864-9938, www.theoarhouse.com
Live entertainment Friday and Saturday 6-9 p.m.
Poppy’s Pool Hall,132 Legion Road, 706-864-0774, www. nga.apaleagues.com
Every Saturday night: 7:30 p.m. Tournament
Every Wednesday: 7 p.m. APA (American Poolplayers Association) 8-Ball pool league play
Shenanigans Irish Pub, 87 North Chestatee Street, 706-482-0114. All ages welcome, no cover.
Wednesdays, 8:30-11:30: Wingin & Singin: 50¢ chicken wings and karaoke
Thursdays, 8-10 p.m.: Team Trivia. Prizes and giveaways.
Friday, Feb. 8, 8:30-11:30 p.m.: Carl Dylan. Influences such as John Mayer, Dave Matthews, Damien Rice, David Gray, and The Civil Wars have led Carl to create a sound unique to him, yet that has a quality of desirable familiarity emanating from within each melody. All ages welcome.
Saturday, Feb. 9, 8:30-11:30 p.m.: Cable and Christian. Hailing from Macon, Jim Cable’s music consists of songs that reflect a blend of the soulful, 70s blues music of Macon and also selections of artists the likes of Randall Bramblett, Keb Mo, or Jackson Brown. Cable has sung the blues in small venues since the 60s, developing a seasoned, warm vocal style. He also delivers a driving blues harmonica sound when not playing Albert Collins-style electric guitar. With the help of Wendell Christian on bass and veteran guitar player Robert Durden, he works in tunes by Jackson Brown, James Taylor and even various female folk players such as Cheryl Wheeler or Catie Curtis.
Mondays, 8-10 p.m.: Open Mic Night hosted by Adam Kadmon
Tuesdays: Live music with Tim O’Donovan
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WINE TASTING
Dahlonega Tasting Room featuring Habersham Wines, 16 North Park Street · Public Square, (706) 864-8275
Naturally Georgia featuring Tiger Mountain Vineyards, 90 Public Square North: 706-864-0832
Simply Taste Buds, a tasting room for Georgia Wines, located at Carriage House Shoppes, 11 South Grove Street. 706-482-0004.
Community Support Projects
Invest in Future raffle, gala tickets available
Lumpkin County Retired Educators Association is raising funds for Invest in the Future, an effort designed to provide mini-grants to teachers in the Lumpkin County public schools. Raffle tickets with discounts to local businesses are available for $5 and enter the holder into drawings for a variety of prizes; gala tickets for a grand event at the Dahlonega Market Place on Feb. 22 are $30. 706-429-3415
Help Leadership Lumpkin collect boxtops
Join the Leadership Lumpkin Class of 2013 in a fundraiser to benefit Lumpkin County elementary schools. The Box Tops for Education effort will run Jan. 28 through Feb 28. Participate by clipping February Box Tops coupons from groceries, office supplies, and more, putting them into a plastic bag, and dropping them off at one of these locations: BB&T, Community and Southern Bank, Regions Bank, United Community Bank, Danny’s, Chick-fil-A, Dahlonega/Lumpkin County Visitors Center, Fresh n’ Frugal, Starbucks, The Embroidery Shop, and Wagon Wheel restaurant. Coupons are worth 10 cents each and schools can earn up to $20,000 annually. More details at www.boxtops4education.com/
Church/Religious Events
Gospel Singing
Freedom Ministries Saturday night singing
Saturday night singing: Big Oak Gospel Music at 7 p.m. each Saturday. Featured singers on Feb. 9 are Under Grace, Glory Road, and Three or More. The event is hosted by The Freedom Heirs and admission is free; a love offering will be collected. 1067 Highway 115 South (Old Dahlonega Highway) 706-867-6534, www.gospelgigs.com
Apostle Bernice Parkinson at Turning Point
The Apostle Bernice Parkinson will be teaching at 6 p.m. Sunday night services through the month of February at Turning Point Outreach Church, 798 Reid Chapman Road, Murrayville. Pastors Eugene & Wanda invite everyone.
UnitARIAn Universalist church
Georgia Mountains Unitarian Universalist Church is a welcoming congregation. On Feb. 10 Rev. Barry Whittemore will present Religious Humanism: the Fifth Source—humanist teachings which counsel us to heed the guidance of reason and the results of science, and warn us against idolatries of the mind and spirit. Worship 11 a.m.; children’s religious education classes 11:30 a.m. following announcements and story time. Child care provided. 706-864-0661, www.gmuuc.org
Dr. Allen Ross at COTA winter conference
Church of The Apostles, Dawsonville, will host its annual winter conference Friday through Sunday, Feb. 15-17. Dr. Allen Ross will make his eighteenth visit to COTA; his topic this year is “Prophecies of Christ in the Book of Psalms.” An excellent teacher, he is professor of Old Testament and Hebrew at Beeson Divinity School. www.cotachurch.com
Prayer LIne available
A local prayer line is available 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and a half day Sunday. If no one answers leave request on machine. 706-864-0673, http://gearinministries.tripod.com
Education/Classes
Attention! New info about GED tests
If you have completed any part of the GED tests but not all of them, you must complete all five tests before January 1 of 2014. If not, all your scores will be erased and you will have to start over. Please don’t delay. The new tests will be harder. Lumpkin County GED Adult Learning Center is open Monday and Tuesday from 9-7, Wednesday from 9-4 and Thursday from 9-2. Orientation and pre-testing every Wednesday, so call today and make a reservation. Preparation help is free and GED testing scholarships are available to those who qualify. 706-867-2862
Home Depot Free Workshops 706-867-9618, ext. 417 or 383
Do-it-Yourself Weekend Workshops: Saturday, Feb. 9, 10-11:30 a.m.: Interior Paint; Sunday, Feb. 10, 1-2:30 p.m.: Installing Wall & Floor Tile
Ladies Night Do-It-Herself Workshop, Thursday, Feb. 21, 6:30-8 p.m.: Framing/Tiling a Mirror (Inspired by Pinterest). Please call for ladies night reservations.
Mountain Education Charter High School
MEC is a SACS accredited, non-traditional, self-paced, mastery learning evening high school serving students ranging in age between 15-21 who have left traditional day school and would like to obtain their Georgia High School Diploma. MEC has eight sites in the North Georgia area, with one in Lumpkin. 706-219-4664, www.mymec.org
International appalachian academy
Classes Wednesday for Japanese Language/Culture and Thursday for World History/Literature. 6:30-8:30 p.m. 390 Tom Bell Odom Road. 706-265-5502, learn@internationalappalachianacademy.com
UNG CONTINUING EDUCATION
For information on these classes, contact the NGU Department of Continuing Education at (706) 864-1918, email conted@northgeorgia.edu or register at www.northgeorgia.edu/ce.
Online Classes Start Feb. 20. See all class options: http://www.northgeorgia.edu/ce/online/ Most Classes are $129
Sunny Portugal: Discover the narrow cobblestone streets, old palatial villas, and mild climate of Portugal. Dates: Nov. 1-10. Rate: Double $2,949/person. Register by June 2
Digital Darkroom Advanced: Explore more techniques in Photoshop Elements, including the basics of working with panoramics, high dynamic range images, advanced color correction, and working with RAW images. Prerequisite: Digital Darkroom. Four Wednesdays, Feb. 6-27, 6-8:30 p.m. $159. Larry Winslett
History and Techniques for Digital Black and White Photography: Explore the history of black and white photographs, techniques of documentary photography, and how to convert photos into grayscale. Four Thursdays, Feb. 7-28, 6-8:30 p.m. $129
Make Lip Balms and Body Butters: Make two kinds of lip balm, body balm, and a lotion bar. Saturday, Feb. 9, 9-11 a.m. $29 plus supply fee $20. Jan Kelley
How Foods Affect Your Body: Learn about fast foods versus whole foods, inflammatory foods and what they do to the body and mind, BMI and more. Six Tuesdays, Feb. 12 - March 19, 6-7 p.m. $89. Greg Garrard
Hydrorobics: Get a total body workout as you tone, strengthen and achieve flexibility and circulatory endurance in the water. All ages (16 and up), all fitness levels, and non-swimmers. 10 Mondays/Wednesdays/Fridays, Feb. 20 - March 22, 9:45-10:45 a.m. $70, Joan Souders
Nature & Outdoors
severe storm spotting program
Dawson County Emergency Response Team (CERT) invites area residents to a severe weather storm spotting program. The objective of the program, which will be presented by the National Weather Service, is to enable citizens to identify and describe severe storms and to report their observations. The NWS views citizen storm spotters as “the first line of defense against severe weather.” The presentation will take place Tuesday, Feb. 12, at 7 p.m. at Dawson County Middle School, 332 Highway 9 North, Dawsonville. There is no charge or obligation.
4-H/Master GardEner plant sale
The Lumpkin County 4-H Club and Georgia Mountains Master Gardeners will again offer the public a selection of high quality plants at reasonable prices in their Spring Plant Sale. The perennials and shrubs being offered have been specially selected to work well in our local landscapes. The sale is designed to enhance community enthusiasm for gardening, share how-to information with the public, engage youth in a meaningful service activity, and help provide funds for projects of both organizations. Deadline for orders is March 1; plants can be picked up Friday and Saturday, March 15-16. Order forms are available in the Cooperative Extension Service office on Johnson Street, at www.caes.uga.edu/extension/lumpkin (click on NEWS).
Smithgall Woods/Buck Shoals Programs, $5 parking/pass required, 706-878-3087, www.gastateparks.org
GPS (Global Positioning System) Basics, Saturday, Feb. 9, 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Learn to use a hand held GPS (units available for use during class). Participants must register in advance. Smithgall Woods State Park. $30/adult severe weather storm spotting program
Guided Hike to the Martin Mine Trail, Sunday, Feb. 10, 2-4 p.m. Take a van ride to the Martin Mine Trail and see evidence of the gold mining that occurred there. The moderately difficult one mile hike also includes a waterfall. No charge but donations for gas are welcome. Call to register. Smithgall Woods
Dance Lessons
FRee Square Dance Lessons
Gold Country Squares will offer free introductory Western Square Dance lessons from 7-9 p.m. Thursdays, Feb. 7 and 14, at the Lumpkin County Parks & Rec. A beginning 10-lesson class series will start Thursday, Feb. 21, $45. Children over 12 accompanied by a parent dance for free. Steve & Carol Hart, 706-864-2021; Bob & Donna Burrow, 706-348-1749
Art Workshops
Painting workshop at art loft
The Art Loft will hold a three-day oils studio workshop, Landscape Painting in the Studio, with Christopher Groves, Thursday-Saturday, Feb. 14-16. Apppropriate for all skill levels. $450 includes lunches. Additional information is available at artloft.net and cgroves.com. Register with Anita Elder, 706-429-6008, aelder1@windstream.net.
Senior Services
lumpkin County Senior Center
266 Mechanicsville Road, 706-864-2358,
lcseniorcenter@windstream.net
Silver Singers: This group of community singers is open to seniors 55+ to sing and have fun. Tuesdays.
Artists Open Studio: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to noon at the Senior Center Art Studio.
Wellness programS for 55+: Healthways Silver Sneakers, designed for 55+ adults, Monday, Tuesday and Friday at 9:30 a.m. Cardio Fit at 1 p.m. Thursdays.
YOGA FLOW for PERSONAL Fitness: One-hour classes promoting strength, flexibility, endurance, balance, breath control and stress relief. All fitness levels. $5/class Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4:15 p.m. Paula Bingham, 706-864-2851, pyb3644@hotmail.com
Nutrition Program for 60+: Socalize, exercise, play games and enjoy crafts, pool, and more. Have a nutritious hot meal.
Music & Dance Lessons
Dance Classes
The Ballet Barre offers dance classes starting at age 2 1/2 in ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary and pointe. www.bbarre.com
music, songwriting lessons
Jason Kenney offers instruction in guitar, mandolin, banjo, songwriting, and music theory at the Holly Theater. 706-344-7059
STring Instruments
Bluegrass instrument instruction—fiddle, banjo, guitar, bass, mandolin. Sonny Houston, 404-377-1194
Music lessons
Guitar, banjo, mandolin, bass. $10. James Lambert, 706-973-9317
Weekend camp for drummers
Drum Camp for beginners, middle school, high school. Three-day weekend camps in Dahlonega. Rory Knapton, 706-865-1564
STRING INSTRUMENT Lessons
Guitar, banjo, fiddle—any string instrument. Vintage Music, Public Square. Individual or small groups. 706-864-2682
Art Lessons
Art by Rayneri Watercolor Classes
Oscar Rayneri, watercolor instructor, offers classes on Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at his studio. 706-867-8059, orayneri@windstream.net, www.oscarrayneriart.yolasite.com
Drawing for the Fun of It by Jon Dahlstrom
Drawing classes/workshops for age seven and up, portfolio reviews. The Artists Corner in Cranberry Corners on the Square. 706-482-0258, jon@scrapsnscribbles.com
classes at Funky chicken
Beginning woodcarving at the Funky Chicken Art Project. www.funkychickenartproject.com or Christina, 706-864-3938, funkchic@windstream.net
art instruction by Win Crannell
Win Crannell is offering art instruction at his studio/gallery at 734 Calhoun Road. 706-864-6422, wcrannell@windstream.net
Painting lessons by Anita Elder
Learn the fundamentals of oil painting in a fun and relaxing environment with fellow artists. Tuesday and Wednesday mornings, beginner through advanced. Individual help given each student. 706-429-6008, www.artloft.net\
Pets
Adopt a Panel of Chain Link fence for TLC
Pet lovers, or family of pet lovers, have the opportunity to Adopt-a-Panel of chain link fencing for TLC, Lumpkin County’s no-kill animal shelter. The shelter’s fencing on its runs has been patched over so many times, replacing it has now become critical. Dahlonega’s Home Depot is donating the fencing at cost. Panels can be adopted for $75, and may be purchased in honor or remembrance of a person or beloved pet. The names of donors will be placed on a plaque and permanently displayed in the TLC shelter. To Adopt-a-Panel, contact Lindsay at 808-271-2766, go toTLC’s website at www.tlchs.org or drop by the shelter, across from the county recycling center on Red Oak Flats Road, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., seven days a week. (Closed noon-1 p.m. for lunch.)
volunteer pets needed
The Compassionate Pets Program at Compassionate Hospice of North Georgia is seeking volunteers. Tami, Volunteer Coordinator, 678-943-3585 or 678-717-0969
Micro-chipping at animal shelter
Micro-chipping is available to the public at Lumpkin County Animal Shelter for any dog or cat for $20. Tuesday-Saturday, 10:30 a.m. -4:30 p.m. 1363 Red Oak Flats Road, 706-867-7297
Purchase from online retailers benefit TLC
TLC Humane Society has partnered with Adoptashelter.com to raise money for Lumpkin County’s no-kill shelter. Any item purchased through http://adoptashelter.com/MallPortal/?shelter_id=1487 at over 400 retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, iTunes, Office Depot and others earns money for TLC. All prices, customer service and discounts are exactly the same as going directly to the merchant.
TLC seeks volunteers, trainer assistants
TLC Humane Society is looking for volunteers to help animals, make new friends and have fun. There are many ways to help, from walking dogs to working on construction projects. Volunteers are also needed to assist in training the TLC dogs Saturdays, 10 a.m. at TLC—no experience needed. 706-864-2817, info@tlchs.org or stop by TLC at 1735 Red Oak Flats Road.
TLC Donations needed
Dahlonega-Lumpkin County Humane Society, a/k/a “TLC,” is a small no-kill 501(c)3 located at 1735 Red Oak Flats Road, Dahlonega. Their wish list includes pet leashes, flea control, puppy and kitten wet food, toys and scoopable cat litter, as well as cash donations, volunteer dog walkers and foster homes. 706-864-2817
more education
program aims to improve reading skills
The Lumpkin County Literacy Coalition and Lanier Technical College are both supporting a new Adult Literacy Program (ALP) initiative to identify and help those who want to improve reading skills. If you have a relative or friend who cannot read at all, or can read some but would like to improve their reading abilities, then encourage them to give ALP a call. The program offers one-on-one tutors, self-pacing and confidentiality. 770-740-9343, 706-429-4517
S.A.T. and Study Prep
Essay, English, math, and science with Dr. Norman Leonard nleonard73@gmail.com
Herbal Apprenticeship
Wild Mountain Girl Herbal School is offering a 10-month Herbal Apprenticeship Program, held one Saturday a month for 10 months covering a complete study of the herbal world. Cindi Vernon, (706) 429-6323, cindiv@windstream.net
more
More Children & Youth
SCOUTING:
Boy Scout Troop 36 is chartered by the Mountain Ranger Association and meets Monday nights at 6:30 p.m. at their scout hut located at Camp Frank Merrill 5th RTB. Troop 36 participates in a 50-mile hiking/canoe trip every summer, as well as camping, kayaking, backpacking, rock climbing and caving year round. Don McElliott, 706-864-0278, www.dahlonega36.mytroop.us
Boy Scouts of America Troop 303 (ages 13-17) meets each Monday (when school is in session) from 6– 7:30 p.m. in the basement of the Community House, at the corner on North Park and Hawkins streets. The active troop schedules monthly outings and regular merit badge classes. Scoutmaster Scotty Erwin, 706-969-8117; Committee Chairman Beecher DuVall, wbdgnld@windstream.net
Cub scout pack 36 meets Mondays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the Lumpkin County Parks YMCA arts and crafts room. Monthly themed pack meetings, outdoor activities plus community service projects. 770-503-6221, 706-867-6711, www.littlemen.webs.com
Venturing group: Venture Crew #79 meets the first and third Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Venturing is a youth led program for boys and girls ages 13-20 and involves high adventure activities such as kayaking, white water rafting and rock climbing as well as social activities and community projects. Meetings are held on the first Wednesday at the Motel 6 conference room in Dawsonville off Ga 400, and on the third Wednesday, at Lumpkin County Parks YMCA. Rich Taylor, 706-864-0953, 770-548-9080, richtaylor155@yahoo.com
YMCA After-School Program
Lumpkin County Parks YMCA After School Program serves children from Lumpkin elementary and middle schools from 2:45 to 6 p.m. on school days at each elementary school. One time registration fee $15. Weekly fees: one day, $15; two days, $30, three to five days, $40. Register at the Lumpkin County YMCA Community Center or contact Fonda London, 706-864-3622. tfn
Support Programs
griefshare program at Church of Apostles
GriefShare offers a safe place to interact with other adults who are also grieving over the loss of a loved one. It is an ongoing program at Church of the Apostles, Dawsonville. Asst. Pastor Chris Foglesong, 706-216-4912
Overcomers Outreach at Bethlehem Baptist
Bethlehem Baptist Church is offering an “Overcomers Outreach” Biblically based 12-step meeting—a program that addresses everyday problems and afflictions such as addiction, divorce, depression, compulsive behaviors, etc.—on Tuesday nights at 6:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall. 706-864-2743
Support for victims of family violence
The NOA Network Support Group meets weekly in Dawsonville and Dahlonega to provide emotional support to victims of family violence and their children. Topics are led by a licensed counselor and include: Building Self-Esteem, Managing Emotions, Healthy Relationships, etc. Childcare and snacks are provided. The Lumpkin group meets in Dahlonega on Mondays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. 706-867-6420 for information. 24-Hour Crisis Line, 706-864-1986, or live webchat available at www.noonealone.org
Nursing Mothers’ Support
Mom to Mom Breastfeeding Support Group meets monthly at different locations due to weather or site availability. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers meet in an informal setting for fun, information and friendship. Lynn Hale, WIC Breastfeeding Counselor, 678-630-9596
Reformers Unanimous Addiction Program
RU meets every Friday at 7 p.m. at Wahoo Baptist Church, 9365 Highway 52 East, Murrayville. Helping others break chains of addiction. Childcare provided. Supported by Wahoo, Faith, Canaan, and Harvest Baptist churches. 706-867-9385
Grief support programs at NGMC
Hospice of Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) offers free grief support groups in area schools, as well as an ongoing support group to parents surviving the loss of their adult child. 770-219-8888, Jennifer Sorrells, Jennifer.Sorrells@nghs.com.
Kinship Care—Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
Kinship Care, a program for grandparents and other relatives raising grandchilden, is a safe place to share experiences. Members learn from each other and find out about programs for which they and the children may be eligible. Meetings are held from 10 a.m. to noon on the second Wednesday of each month at The Lumpkin County Senior Center. Legacy Link, Inc., Area Agency on Aging, 770-538-2650 or 1-800-845-LINK.
CELEBRATE RECOVERY: Biblically-based 12-Step Recovery Meeting.
Dahlonega UMC: Every Saturday. Church service 5:30 p.m. Celebrate Recovery Meeting 6:30 p.m. Dinner provided. Dahlonega United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 107 South Park Street
Set Free Church: Every Tuesday and Wednesday night at 7 p.m., 1660 Highway 52 East
Alcoholics Anonymous:
The Gratitude Group: Meeting at noon Mon., Tues, Wed., Fri. and at 7:30 p.m. Thursday (Twelve and Twelve) in meeting room #2 of the Lumpkin County Library (downstairs); 9 a.m. Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday at Dahlonega Funeral Home, Hwy. 60. AA Hotline: 706-867-7769
12 Step Meeting: Thursdays, 7:30 p.m., Dahlonega Baptist Church
AA Big Book Meeting: meets at Dahlonega Baptist Church every Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.
Al-Anon:
Saturdays 9-10 a.m. and Tuesdays 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Georgia Mountain Unitarian-Universalist Church, 439 South Park Street. 706-864-1254
Lumpkin County Caregivers
A support group for caregivers of those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia meets at 12:30 p.m. the first Monday of the month at Dahlonega Baptist Church. 706-867-6569
NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS
Narcotics Anonymous meets twice a week, 8 p.m. Mondays and 7 p.m. Fridays, at Georgia Mountain Unitarian-Universalist Church on South Park Street. 706-216-5023
Wellness/Fitness
Yoga at MindyYoga
Class schedule at www.mindyyoga.com. Mindy Searcey, Certified Yoga Instructor. 106 Public Square North, downstairs in Hall’s Block Building. 706-531-4718, info@mindyyoga.com
Running Group: Gold Rushers
Dahlonega Gold Rushers, a running group for all ages, abilities, distance/speed, meets on Saturday mornings at 6:30 a.m. at Hancock Park. Free.
Project Dahlonega Boot Camp
Free co-ed fitness program that motivates and educates individuals in fitness and healthy nutrition. Balanced mixture of cardio, strength, and agility, and tailored so each fitness level. Hancock Park, Monday-Friday 5:15-6:15 a.m.
Zumba classes at YMCA
Dance, sweat, and laugh with Zumba. Classes Monday, Wednesday and Friday 6:30-7:30 p.m. $5 Sign up at Lumpkin Parks YMCA, 706-864-3622.
Yoga at Dahlonega Spa Resort
Tuesdays at 6 p.m.: Yoga for all levels. A basic Hatha Yoga flow, appropriate for any level with Sandy Osieja. 400 Blueberry Hill off Town Creek Church Road. 706-865-7678
Dahlonega Healing Arts
Yoga by Kathryn Crifasi, 678-770-0400, 6 p.m. Wednesdays and 10:30 a.m. Fridays. Chigong/Taichi: Tuesday at 6 p.m. and Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. 81 Crown Mountain Place, Building E, Suite 100, 706-867-7026
Holistic movement classes
Wild Mountain Girl Herbal School on the square announces holistic movement classes. Classes for grace, balance, gentle stretching, cardio-strength, walking and more. Cindi Vernon, 706-429-6323
Jazzercise
Adult classes offered now, Jr. Jazzercise and Team Dance coming soon. Jazzercise of Dahlonega, 400 Wal-Mart Way, Suite F. 678-617-0329, www.jazzercise.com; bgagne@windstream.net
YOGA Flow for Personal Fitness
Morning, afternoon and evening one hour classes for all ages and fitness levels promoting improved personal well being while engaging in traditional flowing Yoga postures. $5/class. Paula Bingham 706-864-2851 pyb3644@hotmail.com
Wellness Classes
Learn healthy eating habits, lifestyle choices and exercises by certified nutritionist and wellness coach. 706-429-7956 Wellness-21, on the Public Square. www.wellness-21.com
natural & holistic living
The Southern Association of Green Enthusiasts is open to anyone who is interested in natural, alternative, green and holistic living. Cindi Vernon, (706)429-6323 or cindiv@windstream.net
Recycling
PLASTIC/PAPER/ALUMINUM:
• # 1 & 2 plastic bottles (discard lids)
• Corrugated cardboard (clean and dry)
• Office paper and junk mail, magazines etc. No paperboard (such as cereal boxes), brown fiber paper (such as brown paper bags) or paper towel or toilet tissue cores.
• Aluminum and tin cans. (please rinse out)
Locations:
• Lumpkin County Recycle Center, 1642 Red Oak Flats Road, (706-867-7574
• Lumpkin County Landfill, Barlow Road. 706-864-6338
• Bins at Radar Ridge, Morrison Moore across from the college dorms
• Bins on Highway 19 North across from Ace Hardware.
CITY PICK UP AT RESIDENCES IN DAHLONEGA
The city offers a single-stream recycling program for city residents. Households can recycle multiple materials in one container without a bag. Call 706-864-6133 to request a recycling bin for the following items:
• #1 & #2 plastics with screw on tops only (rinsed, tops removed)
• Cardboard, emptied and flattened
• Newspapers and magazines
• Mail, office/computer paper
• Aluminum and tin cans (rinsed)
CFL BULBS: Home Depot
BATTERIES
• Radio Shack/Dahlonega Pharmacy: household rechargeable batteries
• Home Depot
Cell PHones
Dahlonega Funeral Home collects old cell phones for “Cell Phones for Soldiers,” an effort to support military members returning from active duty. 706-864-DOVE
PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS:
• J&J Foods
• Walmart
STYROFOAM: Publix accepts egg cartons and meat trays.
Electronics, metals, etc.
• Waypoint Thrift Store, Highway 60 East of 400, 706-867-0297
• Ace Hardware, 1976 Hwy. 19 N. Electronics and metal drop bin for computers, radios/speakers, washing machines, refrigerators, and more. Free disposal, free pick up/meet up. Chuck: 706 973-0586; Joseph: 706-482-8287
Volunteers
Adult Literacy Tutors: The Adult Literacy Program (ALP) of Lumpkin County is seeking volunteer tutors to work with adults on their reading skills. Training is available. For more information call Vikki Condrey, 706-429-4517.
Meals on Wheels needs volunteer drivers to deliver meals in the Lumpkin County area. If you have the time (only two hours out of your week) and want to help the homebound senior adults in our community, please call Rhonda at 706-864-2358 for more information or come by the senior center for an application. Training will be provided.
Mentoring volunteers are matched with students to serve as a role model, advisor and friend. Lumpkin County Family Connection Mentor Program, Brenda Cronan, bcronan@lumpkin.k12.ga.us, 706-867-7047
Odyssey Hospice Volunteers: Do you like to knit, crochet, sew or craft? Can you run an errand or clean a yard for someone? Will you help meet the needs of patients and families living with a life-limiting illness? Would you just spend time visiting with a hospice patient? Gail Manter, Manager of Volunteer Services, Odyssey Hospice 706-549-5736 or 877-637-9432.
Lumpkin County Literacy Coalition has volunteer opportunities in ESL, GED, Adult Literacy, Children’s Literacy, or on fundraising committees. Office, 706-867-9607; Juanita Tipton, 706-867-1835, http://www.lumpkinliteracy.org/
Affinis Hospice is seeking caring, upbeat volunteers to work with hospice patients in and around Lumpkin County. Roxann, 678-333-8507 or rbradford@affinishospice.org
COMMUNITY HELPING PLACE is seeking volunteers for the Food Pantry, Free Clinic and Thrift Store. Flexible scheduling. David Faile, Volunteer Services Director, 706-867-9621
Compassionate Hospice of North Georgia seeks individual volunteers and group organizations are to help people coping with terminal illness and their families. Steven Vanlerberghe, 678-651-1440
CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) needs volunteers to work with abused and neglected children. 706-864-0300, information@enotahcasa.org, www.enotahcasa.org.
THRIFT STORE CUSTOMER SERVICE: NOA (No One Alone), the domestic violence program for Dawson and Lumpkin counties needs volunteers to work at its thrift shop. Fiona Boss, 706-867-6167
Lumpkin Animal Shelter needs volunteers for office work as well as hands-on socialization of animals. 1363 Red Oak Flats Road, 706-867-7297
Dahlonega-Lumpkin County Humane Society, a/k/a “TLC”, needs pet foster homes, volunteers, and donations. Mary Waits, Foster Home Coordinator, 770-823-3908, or to volunteer, contact the shelter at (706)864-2817.
Hospice of NE GA. Medical CENTER needs caring individuals to help serve grieving individuals following the death of their loved one. Training provided. Carol Jewell, 770-533-8888 or 888-572-3900, www.nghs.com
DAHLONEGA Gold Museum needs volunteers to help staff the museum four to eight hours each month. Training provided. Call or drop by, 706-864-22
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