Get Out, February 14, 2013

Mountain Players present heart-warming comedy, page 6

Love is blooming Arbor Day celebration, Valentine events put Gainesville in the mood.

PAGES 5, 14

Thursday February 14, 2013

gainesvilletimes.com /getout

get out Northeast Georgia’s entertainment guide

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Thursday, February 14, 2013 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

on the web

outdoors

www.atari.com/arcade#!/arcade/atari-promo.com Miss playing games like Centipede, Asteroids and Missile Command? Get your fix of ’80s classics with the Atari archive.

Just don’t let the boss catch you!

Give the athletes of Georgia’s Special Olympics a leg up by dunking both of yours in the ice water of Lake Lanier this weekend.

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arts

The 38th annual Fireside Craft/Art Show heats up Helen this weekend with a menagerie of wares and works from across the South.

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movies

Oh Bruce Willis, man of action and nifty catch phrases, did your career die hard? It may, after this abysmal sequel.

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music

on the cover

stockexchange.com

You can’t be found k-i-s-s-i-n-g with your Valentine if there are no trees to sit in. Help Gainesville celebrate Arbor Day with the planting of new seedlings.

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Associated Press

The Voices of North Georgia want you and your sweetie to cut a rug this weekend at the fourth annual Romantic Cabaret.

PAGE 14 Take in a little culture as ProMusica wraps up its concert series with world-renowned Korean pianist Yoonie Han on Sunday in Gainesville.

PAGE 15

gainesvilletimes.com/getout •

Thursday, February 14, 2013

REGISTER NOW

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for The Gainesville Citizens’ Government Academy Mondays, March 4 – May 6, 6pm-9pm

Class of 2012

For a class schedule and registration form go to www.gainesville.org Registration ends February 22nd.

From the shooting range at the Nationally Accredited Police Department to the driving range at the Chattahoochee Golf Course, find out why Gainesville is a City of Excellence.

Details: 770-531-6598

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Thursday, February 14, 2013 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

family events This week

Giraffe Week, Gainesville. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 11-15. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St. SE , Gainesville. $1 with paid admission to museum, INK Members are free. 770-536-1900.

President’s Day Week Crafting, Gainesville. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 18-22. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St. SE, Gainesville. $1 with paid admission to museum, INK Members are free.

770-536-1900.

Upcoming

Dental Health Week, Gainesville.

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 25-28.

Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St. SE, Gainesville. $1

etc events This week

Spay/Neuter Event, Clarkesville. Feb. 14.

4231 B Toccoa Highway, Clarkesville. 770-532-6617.

Prom/Pageant Dress Consignment Sale, Gainesville. 4-7 p.m. Feb. 14, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 15. Dress drop off 4-7 p.m.

Feb. 12 and Feb. 14. Cash only. Proceeds will benefit the Georgia Sheriff’s Youth Home and the Georgia Key Club Convention. $10 per dress, $5 for additional.

770-654-1251.

Documentary screening of “Girl Model,” Oakwood.

7 p.m. Feb. 14. Martha Nesbitt Academic Building IV, University of North Georgia Gainesville Campus, 3820 Mundy Mill Road, Oakwood. $7 adults, $5 students and seniors.

Part of the Southern Independent Filmmakers tour. 770-534-2787, www.

TheArtsCouncil.net.

Georgia Airborne Association Monthly Meeting, 11 a.m. Feb. 16. Gainesville American Legion Post, 2343 Riverside Drive, Gainesville.

The Mountain Laurel

with paid admission to museum, INK Members are free. 770-536-1900.

Lion Week, Gainesville. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 4-8. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St. SE, Gainesville. $1 with paid admission to museum, INK Members are free. 770-536-1900.

St. Patrick’s Day Week, Gainesville.

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 11-15.

Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St. SE, Gainesville. $1 with paid admission to museum, INK Members are free. 770-536-1900.

2nd annual “Rockin Rides” Auto Show Fundraiser, Flowery Branch. 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. April 13. Davis Middle School, 4450 Hog Mountain Road, Flowery Branch. Bring your cars, trucks, and bikes. $15 vehicle registration fee, $25 vendor booth fee and free admission.

Spring Is Here Week, Gainesville.

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 18-22.

Quilters Guild monthly meeting, Clarkesville. Noon.

Feb. 19. Clarkesville United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 1087 Washington St., Clarkesville. 706-782-6020.

Lanier Women’s Club, Gainesville. 10 a.m. Every second Thursday. First Presbyterian Church, S. Enota St., Gainesville. $15.

678-960-4172.

Upcoming

Winter Birding in Georgia, Gainesville. 12:30 p.m.

Feb. 21. Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville.

Ornithologist Georgann Schmalz will discuss winter birding in Georgia.

Bring lunch; $10 donation requested. 770-535-1976, www.elachee.org.

Community Contra Dance.

7:30-11 p.m. Feb. 23.

Sautee Nacoochee Center historic gym, 283 Ga. 255 N, Sautee. Adults $8, students $4. 706-7543254.

Vic Wilson Book Signing, Gainesville. 1-3 p.m. March 2. New Holland Gym, 100 Spring St. Ste. B Gainesville.

Girl Scouts Woman of Distinction Luncheon,

Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St. SE, Gainesville. $1 with paid admission to museum, INK Members are free. 770-536-1900.

Healthy Habits Event, Gainesville.

1-4 p.m. March 24. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St. SE, Gainesville. Free with paid admission to museum, $6 admission every Sunday. 770-5361900.

Doctor Week, Gainesville. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 25-29. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St. SE, Gainesville. $1 with paid admission to museum, INK Members are free. 770-536-1900.

Easter Craft Week, Gainesville. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 1-5. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St. SE, Gainesville. $1 with paid admission to museum, INK Members are free. 770-536-1900.

Gainesville. 11:30 a.m.

March 12. First United Methodist Church, 2780 Thompson Bridge Road, Gainesville. Deborah Keith Mack is the honoree. $45.

770-536-8656, www.gshg. org.

Author luncheon, Demorest. Noon. March 16. Piedmont College, 165 Central Ave., Demorest. A fundraiser for the Friends of the Clarkesville Library.

Folk artist Linda Anderson will speak following a catered lunch. Her book, “Flashes of Memory: An Appalachian SelfPortrait” will be available for purchase. Deadline is March 13. $25, includes lunch. 706-754-4413.

Farmers market registration, Suwanee.

Applications due by March 18 when Suwanee Farmers Market annual meeting will be held at 7 p.m., Suwanee City Hall, 330 Town Center Ave. Guidelines and applications are available at www.suwanee.com.

Organic Farming in Georgia, Gainesville. 12:30 p.m. March 21. Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. Series of three talks by guest speakers

sharing knowledge in natural history and environmental policy.

Bring lunch; $10 donation requested. 770-535-1976, www.elachee.org.

Georgia Poetry Circuit Reading, Gainesville. 12:30 p.m. April 9. John S. Burd Center for the Performing Arts, Banks Recital Hall, 429 Academy St., Gainesville. Free. 770-5346179.

The Brenau Student Fashion Show, Gainesville.

4:30 p.m. April 13. Pearce Auditorium, Brenau University, 500 Washington St. SE, Gainesville. Free.

770-534-6240.

Cornelia Apple Blossom BBQ Festival, Cornelia. April 19-20. KCBS sanctioned BBQ competitions.

17th annual Bear on the Square Mountain Festival, Dahlonega. April 19-21.

244 Wild Turkey Trail, Dahlonega. Celebrates Southern Appalachian music, art and culture.

Free. 706-864-9007, www. bearonthesquare.org.

Symposium: Interdisciplinary Approaches to Problems in Healthcare Delivery, Gainesville. 12:306 p.m. April 20. Brenau University East Campus,

get out Northeast Georgia’s entertainment guide

To have your event listed, we must have the following information: ■ The name, time and date of the event, and a short description ■ The location, street address ■ Admission and contact information ■ Send to getout@gainesvilletimes.com ONLY emails will be accepted. No faxes, flyers, mailers or phone calls. The deadline to have your event listed in Get Out is the FRIDAY before the next publication. Listings run at the discretion of the editor.

If you would like to purchase an ad, call Betty Thompson at 770-532-1234 or email bthompson@gainesvilletimes.com

1001 Chestnut St. SE, Gainesville. Free. 678-7076414 or 678-707-5029.

Spelling Bee 2013, Gainesville. 7 p.m. April 23.

Pearce Auditorium, Brenau University, 500 Washington St. SE, Gainesville.

Adults $5, children $2.

770-531-4337, www. allianceforliteracy.org.

Suwanee Farmers Market, Suwanee. 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays, May 4 through Oct. 5, 4-7 p.m.

Tuesdays, May 7 through Aug. 6. Town Center Park, Suwanee.

Rock In The Spring, Gainesville. 6 p.m. May 18. Amphitheatre, Brenau University, 102 Prior St., Gainesville. $20, tables $300 and up.

770-535-8372, lmiller@ challengedchild.org.

Georgia Mountain Big Green Eggfest, Hiawassee.

9 a.m. May 18. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Road,

Hiawassee. $20. www. mountainegg.com.

The 5th annual Brenau Barbecue Championship, Gainesville. May 25. Brenau University Campus, 500 Washington St. SE, Gainesville. $5, kids are free. 770-534-6160, jbrown9@brenau.edu or www.berenau.edu/bbq.

Ongoing

‘Fighting the Fires of Hate: America and the Nazi Book Burnings,’ Dahlonega. Through March 15. University of North Georgia’s Dahlonega campus, Library Technology Center. Free.

706-864-1521, bmorris@ northgeorgia.edu.

Library Chess Club, Gainesville. 1-5 p.m. every Friday. Gainesville Library, 127 Main St. NW, Gainesville. All ages and levels welcome. 770-5323311, ext.114

goo outdoors Gainesville to hold Arbor Day celebration

BY SAVANNAH KING

sking@gainesvilletimes.com If you’re looking for a way to celebrate Arbor day with other tree lovers, look no further than Gainesville.

For the last 26 years the city has been designated as a Tree City. Tree Cities are involved in directing and raising awareness for urban forestry programs.

This Friday, the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, Georgia Forestry Commission, Hall County Master Gardeners, Keep Hall Beautiful, Georgia Power and Gainesville Parks and Recreation will sponsor the city’s annual Arbor Day Celebration.

The program begins at 10 a.m. Friday outside of the Frances Meadows Aquatic and Community Center in Gainesville.

A tree will be planted outside of the center at the end of the program. Tree seedlings are donated by Georgia Power.

Robin Halstead, vice president of community development of the chamber, said the event is expected to draw close to 50 attendees.

She said the event “promotes the importance of trees and tree canopy in cities and towns and also makes land owners, home owners and government officials see how important trees are to make a community attractive.”

Festivities will include a student contest recognition and a joint city and county proclamation with Tree City USA recognition.

The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Beautification Committee and the Georgia Forestry Service will announce the winners of the 2013 Arbor Day Student Art and Essay Contest. Third-grader Prudence Matthews won the art contest and fifthgrader Oscar Salazar won the essay contest.

The students will read a poem at the tree planting.

gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, February 14, 2013

Arbor Day When: 10 a.m. Friday Where: Frances Meadows Aquatic and Community Center, 1545 Community Way, Gainesville

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park bench.

■ Hall County Master Gardener program started in 1997 with 10 adults and now it has over 160 adults involved.

■ The Junior Master Gardener program started in 2008 with 30 children in 3 schools and now has over 300 children in 13 schools.

■ The tree replacement fund grant money comes from the profits of Keep Hall Beautiful’s Spring Chicken Festival.

■ Since the first Spring Chicken Festival in 2004, 278 trees have been planted from the festival proceeds.

■ There is 118,000 acres of tree canopy in Gainesville/Hall County today. Hall County has total 275,840 acres in all.

■ Trees are a renewable resource bringing in $27.2 billion to Georgia’s economy and 118,423 jobs.

■ Two mature trees can provide enough oxygen for a family of four.

■ Trees are the longest living organism on earth.

■ Recycling one ton of paper saves one acre of trees.

■ The tallest tree in the world is a redwood in California which is 360 feet tall.

go o outdoors

Gainesville Tree Facts

■ Arbor Day was started in 1872.

■ Arbor Day stresses the importance of the value of trees and proposed that a special day be set aside for tree planting.

■ Gainesville has been a Tree City USA for 25 years and has received the Growth Award for 21 years.

■ First Arbor Day tree planting was in Wilshire Trails.

■ City Council Member Sissy Lawson was the first person to apply to the Arbor Day Foundation about being a Tree City USA. ■ Gainesville is one of only seven other cities in Georgia with at least 25 years as a Tree City.

■ The Georgia State Tree is the live oak.

■ Friends of Gainesville Parks & Greenways has an honorarium project where you can give the gift of a tree or a

Source: http://www.gainesville.org/fun-tree-facts

Jump for Special Olympics Green thumbs share the love From staff reports If the weather hasn’t been cold enough for you, get ready for a plunge in temps this weekend.

Brave-hearted and big-hearted alike will come together to support the Special Olympics at the fourth annual Polar Plunge on Lake Lanier.

The Polar Plunge is the largest fundraising effort benefiting Special Olympics of Georgia and many states across the nation participate in the annual event.

Participants who have collected pledges or paid a fee will have the opportunity to jump into the icy waters of Lake Lanier on Saturday.

All proceeds collected by “plungers” will benefit the athletes of Special Olympics. Prizes will be awarded for the best costume, highest fundraiser, highest and fundraising team.

For those who do not love the polar bear habitat, there will be heated areas to keep warm, toasty concessions and souvenirs.

Anyone with a little guts and a warm heart is welcome to participate. Of course, there is always room for more hesitant souls who just wish to be spectators.

For more information and a complete list of rules, call 770-414-9390 ext. 119, email Danny.Knight@ SpecialOlympicsGA.org or visit www.polarplungega. com

4th annual Polar Plunge When: Saturday Feb. 16 ■ 11 a.m.: Registration ■ 1 p.m.: All plungers must be registered ■ 1–1:30 p.m.: Costume Contest on beach ■ 1:30 p.m.: Plunge Program, Safety Briefing, and awards ■ 2 p.m.: Plunge time Where: Lake Lanier Islands Beach & Water Park, 7000 Holiday Road, Buford.

Cost: Free to watch, $50 to plunge More info: 770414-9390 ext. 119 or Danny.Knight@ SpecialOlympicsGA.org, www.polarplungega. com.

Conference comes to State Botanical Gardens From staff reports Gardeners, landscape architects, preservationists and plant lovers of all levels and expertise will gather at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia in Athens for the 2013 Southern Garden Heritage Conference.

On Friday, Feb. 15 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. gardeners can learn about heirloom fruits and vegetables and explore the rich gardening traditions of the South.

The Conference features speakers William C. Welch of Texas, author of “Heirloom Gardening in the South,” and Felder Rushing of Mississippi, author of “Slow Gardening: A NoStress Philosophy for All

Senses and All Seasons.”

Several gardening and environmental groups have joined to sponsor this year’s event: The UGA College of Environment and Design in cooperation with The Garden Club of Georgia, Inc., Friends of The

State Botanical Garden of Georgia, Cherokee Garden Library of the Atlanta History Center and the Southern Garden History Society.

For more directions or to register for the conference, call 706-542-6156 or visit www.botgarden.uga.edu.

CMYK

CMYK PAGE

go o the arts

Thursday, February 14, 2013 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

theater events This week

“She Loves Me,” Gainesville. 7:30 p.m. Feb. 12-16 and 19-23, 2:30 p.m. Feb. 17 and 23. Hosch Theatre, Brenau University, 429 Academy St., Gainesville. $16-18 for adults, $14-16 for seniors and $10-12 for students. 678717-3624, www.gainesvilletheatrealliance.org.

“Opal’s Baby,” Gainesville. 7:30 p.m. Feb. 14, 15, 16, 21 and 22, 2:30 p.m. Feb. 17 and 23. Brenau Downtown Center, 301 SW Main St., Gainesville. $17 adults and seniors, $13 students and children. 770-534-8420. www. georgiamountainplayers.org.

“She Stoops to Conquer,” Demorest. 7:30 p.m. Feb. 14– 16, 2 p.m. Feb. 17. Swanson Center, Piedmont College, 165 Central Ave., Demorest. $10 adults, $5 students and seniors. Piedmont College faculty, staff and students are free. 706-778-8500 ext. 1355.

“A Raisin in the Sun,” Oakwood. 7:30 p.m. Feb. 15, 17, 19-23; 2:30 p.m. Feb. 16 and 23. Ed Cabell Theatre, University of North Georgia Gainesville campus, 3850 Mundy Mill Road, Oakwood. $16-18 for adults, $14-16 for seniors and $10-12 for students. 678-717-3624, www.gainesvilletheatrealliance.org.

Upcoming

“In Acting Shakespeare,” Gainesville. 7:30 p.m. Feb. 2224. Buford Community Center’s Sylvia Beard Theatre, 2200 Buford Highway, Buford. $16-$18 adults, $14-$16 seniors and $10-$12 for students and children. 678717-3624, www.gainesvilletheatrealliance.org.

“Little Mermaid,” Dahlonega. 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 3 p.m. Sundays. Feb. 22-24 and March 1-3.

Holly Children’s Theater, 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega.

Adults $14, children and students $10. www. hollytheater.com.

“Almost, Maine,” Flowery Branch. 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays March 8-10, 15-17. Fifth Row Center Studio, 5509 Main St., Flowery Branch. $10-$15.678-357-7359, FifthRowCenter.com.

“Driving Miss Daisy,” Dahlonega. 8 p.m. March 8-9, 2 p.m. March 10. The Historic Holly Theater, 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega. Adult $18, children and students $12. www.hollytheater.com.

“The Drowsy Chaperone Show,” Lawrenceville. 8 p.m.

Wednesdays through Fridays, 2:30 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Saturdays, 2:30 p.m. Sundays. March 14 through April 7. Aurora Theatre, 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. $15. 678-226-6222, www.auroratheatre.com.

“The Secret Agent,” Atlanta. March 15-17. Conant Performing Arts Center at Oglethorpe University, Atlanta. Opera with music by local Atlanta composer Curtis Bryant and libretto by Allan Reichman. www. ccityopera.org.

“Cinderella,” Gainesville. 7:30 p.m. March 22, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. March 23, 2:00 p.m. March 24. Pearce Auditorium, Brenau University, 500 Washington St. SE, Gainesville. $12-$26, Brenau faculty, staff and students $6 with valid ID. 770-532-4241, www.gainesvilleballet. org.

“Brigadoon,” Dahlonega. 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays. April 5-7, 12-14 and 1921. Historic Holly Theater, 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega.

Tickets go on sale Jan. 29. Adults $18, children and students $12. 706-864-3759, www.hollytheater.com.

Baby, what a hoot Mountain Players start last season with family comedy From staff reports Get ready for an evening of heartwarming hilarity as the Georgia Mountain Players presents “Opal’s Baby” Thursday, Feb. 14 at the Brenau Downtown Center (formerly the Georgia Mountains Center).

The Georgia Mountain Players will open their last and final season with “Opal’s Baby,” another in the “Opal” series written by John Patrick.

Linda Smith said that she has had the honor of directing all of the “Opal” plays, and loves to do so because they are filled with so much heart and humor.

Smith is delighted this was one of the plays selected for the Players’ final season.

The show revolves around the irrepressible Opal Kronkie, (Jene Robocker), who lives at the edge of the city dump, and is a collector of trash,

‘Opal’s Baby’ When: 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 14-16, 21-22 and 2:30 p.m.

Feb. 17 and 23 Where: Brenau Downtown Center, 301 Main St., Gainesville.

Tickets: Available at the door; $17 adults, $13 seniors (60+), students and children.

Additional fee may apply if ordering by phone or online.

More info: 770-5348420 or georgia mountainplayers.org.

treasures and people.

In this story, Opal is visited by a family of questionable characters; Norman (Cleve Brown), Spencer (Josh Thompson), Verna (Peggy Strickland), and the most questionable of all, Granny (Dianne Martin.)

They all believe Opal is

Photo courtesy Josh Thompson

rich and have hatched a plot to get her money by pretending to be long-lost Kronkie relatives down on their luck.

Meanwhile, Rosie (Nancy Weeks), Opal’s best friend — who has a more suspicious nature after her husband deserted her for a wealthy circus performer— attempts to make Opal move more cautiously before opening her house and heart to the strangers.

In typical Georgia Mountain Players fashion, the play moves quickly and is filled with loads of laughs, twists and turns, and an

ending that makes you feel glad you came.

For more information, call 770-534-8420 or visit georgiamountainplayers. org.

goo the arts Meaders meandering Folk Pottery Museum waves admission From staff reports The Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia will hold a free open house from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 16 for all visitors.

“We encourage particular attention to our temporary exhibition ‘Another Look at Lanier,’ which shows the versatility of Lanier Meaders, perhaps the best-known representative of a 200-year tradition of folk pottery in this Georgia region,” said Museum Director Chris Brooks.

The Smithsonian Institution produced a documentary film about Northeast Georgia folk pottery in 1967, focusing on the Meaders family and featuring interviews and demonstrations of Lanier Meaders’ work.

The documentary was followed by a Folk Art exhibition in Washington, D.C., where Lanier Meaders’ work — particularly his distinctive face jugs — received national recognition.

“Although famous for his face jugs, Lanier Meaders produced utilitarian and decorative ware influenced by the training he received from his parents, Cheever and Arie Meaders,” notes Brooks, “and our special exhibition presents examples of this pottery.”

Contemporary folk potters Rex Hogan and Suzanne Reese of Mossy Creek and Mike Craven of Gillsville will be demonstrating and selling their wares throughout the open house event.

Visitors may browse

the permanent collection and displays and explore regional history and view the work of many other Northeast Georgia artists in the adjoining Sautee Nacoochee Community Center History Museum and Center Gallery.

Local musicians will be performing in the museum throughout the day.

The Folk Pottery Museum is located at the intersection of Ga. 283 and 255, 1/2 mile from the intersection with Ga. 17 and four miles from Alpine Helen.

The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 a.m.

Monday through Saturday, and 1-5 a.m. Sunday.

Admission is $5 for adults; $4 for seniors and $2 for children. Admission, of course, will be free Saturday, Feb. 16.

Fireside craft/art show returns From staff reports HELEN — Unicoi State Park and Lodge in the North Georgia mountains shakes off the winter chill with an outstanding arts and crafts exhibition.

During the 38th annual Fireside Craft/ Art Show, park visitors can warm up in a spacious lodge while viewing the creations of top artisans from across the Southeast.

The show will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 16-17. There is a $5 park pass fee to park, but the indoor show is free.

The Fireside Craft/Art Show is one of the most anticipated events held at the park.

Its reputation comes from the balance of traditional folk skills such as pottery, fiber arts and folk art, with more contemporary arts such as paintings, jewelry and mixed media.

Watch artists in action as they demonstrate their crafts while supporting local commerce.

38th annual Fireside Craft/Art Show When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 16-17.

Where: Unicoi State Park and Lodge, 1788 Ga. 356, Helen Cost: Free, $5 parking More info: 800-573-9659 ext. 305.

And of course, the park is waiting for anyone looking to get a breath of fresh mountain air in between shopping.

Hungry shoppers can enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner at the lodge’s restaurant, which features fresh Georgia mountain trout nightly. For lodging reservations call 800-573-9659.

For more information about the Fireside Craft/Art Show call the park at 800-5739659, ext. 305. Unicoi State Park and Lodge is located 2 miles north of Helen on Ga. 356.

CMYK

gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, February 14, 2013

arts events This Week

St. NE, Gainesville. This workshop will focus on using value to make a better painting. $225. 770-536-2575, www. quinlanartscenter.org.

Casino Night fundraiser, Gainesville. 6:30 p.m. Feb. 23. Smithgall Arts Center, 331 Spring St. SE, Gainesville. Vegas casino games, live music, hors d’ouevres, silent auction and cash bar. Black tie optional.

Benefits The Arts Council. $75, $125 couple. RSVP by Feb. 11. 770-534-2787, www.theartscouncil.net.

Quinlan Visual Arts Center 35th annual Gala Art Auction, Gainesville. Feb. 28 through March 2. Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St. NE, Gainesville.

Original art work by local, regional and national talents juried by acclaimed art appraiser Robert Morring of Atlanta. $125. 770-536-2575, www. quinlanartscenter.org.

2013 Kiwanis Visual Arts Showcase, Gainesville. Through March. Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St. NE, Gainesville. Hall County and Gainesville City middle and high school students are invited to participate. Cash scholarships will be awarded for Best of Show for 10th, 11th and 12th grade artists. 770536-2575, www.quinlanartscenter.org.

go o the arts

Folk Pottery Museum Open House, Helen.

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 16. The Folk Pottery Museum, 283 Ga. 255, Helen.

Free.

Earth Art with Jessi Evans, Sautee. Feb. 14, 21, 28. Sautee Nachoochee Center, 283 Ga. 255 N, Sautee. 706-768-6311, jevans@snca.org.

38th annual Fireside Craft/Art Show, Helen. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 16-17.

Unicoi State Park and Lodge, 1788 Ga. 356, Helen. $5 parking. 800-573-9659 ext. 305.

Marc Chatov workshop, Gainesville.

9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 16-18. Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St. NE, Gainesville. Basic structure and strengthen fundamentals of drawing, value, color and composition. $430. 770536-2575, www.quinlanartscenter.org.

Upcoming

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Linda Dragonette workshop, Gainesville.

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. February 22-23.

Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green

get out Thursday, February 14, 2013

8-9

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movies

page 13

A behind-the-scenes look at the glamorous world of modeling is the next feature in the Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers.

‘girl Model’

Russo & Noe: Valentine’s Evening with the music of Sinatra and Martin, Dahlonega. 8 p.m. Feb. 14. The Historic Holly Theater, 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega. Relive the fun and romance of a 1961 Vegas evening.

Adults $18, children and students $12. www.hollytheater.com.

page 14

The evening’s activities will begin at 7 p.m. with several songs from the Big Band era

by Voices of North Georgia and continue with dancing to the soothing sounds of the Sentimental Journey Jazz Band and a selection of delectable desserts, punch and coffee.

Romantic Cabaret.

Associated Press

music

For Get Out

Col. Bruce Hampton, Dahlonega. 9 p.m.

Feb. 16. The Crimson Moon Cafe, 24 N. Park St., Dahlonega. $10.

706-864-3982, www. thecrimsonmoon.com.

Traditional Music Jam, Dahlonega. 2-4 p.m. Feb.16.

The Crimson Moon, 24 N Park St., Dahlonega.

706-864-3982.

review, 10

For 25 years, it’s generally been “A Good Day to Die Hard.” But these last two films have neutered the franchise and wrecked any hopes that Bruce Willis as McClane might be Bourne again.

‘Die Hard’

Athens Youth Symphony Winter Concert, Athens. 4 p.m. Feb. 17.

Presentation Hall, Bertelsmann Foundation Building, Athens Academy, 1281 Spartan Lane, Athens. Free. 706-543-1907.

page 15

South Korean pianist Yoonie Han will perform Sunday in Gainesville as part of the ProMusica Concert Series.

The concert will begin at 4 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 751 Green St. NW in Gainesville.

ProMusica.

THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

weekeND plANNeR

Northeast Georgia’s entertainment guide

gainesvilletimes.com/getout

s

“Frida & Diego: Passion Politics and Painting,” Atlanta. Opens Feb. 14 and runs through May 12.

The High Museum of Art, 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. www.high.org.

Stars Over Elachee, Gainesville. 5:45-7:45 p.m. Feb. 16, 7:15-9:15 p.m. March 16, 7:30-9:30 p.m. April 13 and 8-10 p.m. May 18. Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. Learn about astronomy and how to use a telescope to view the night sky. Bring a flashlight and pencil.

Reservations are required. $10 adults, $5 children ages 2-12 and Elachee members free. 770-535-1976, www.elachee.org.

Author luncheon, Demorest. Noon. March 16. Piedmont College, 165 Central Ave., Demorest. A fundraiser for the Friends of the Clarkesville Library. Folk artist Linda Anderson will speak following a catered lunch. Her book, “Flashes of Memory: An Appalachian Self-Portrait” will be available for purchase. Deadline is March 13. $25, includes lunch. 706-754-4413.

“Almost, Maine,” Flowery Branch. 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 3 p.m.

Saturdays and Sundays March 8-10, 15-17. Fifth Row Center Studio, 5509 Main St., Flowery Branch. $10-$15.678-357-7359, FifthRowCenter. com.

MARcH 8: MARcH 16:

Northwinds Symphonic Band, Gainesville. 7:30 p.m. Feb. 23. Brenau University’s Pearce Auditorium. The concert, “Viva L’Italia” will feature an all Italian program, with guest conductor, Col. Arnald D. Gabriel, Conductor Emeritus of the United States Air Force Band. Featured local artists include Russell Andrade, tenor, and Michelle Martin, soprano. Ronald J. Evans is conductor, Mercer E. Crook, associate conductor. Admission is $15 for adults, $12 seniors, and $5 students.

Winter Birding in Georgia, Gainesville. 12:30 p.m. Feb. 21. Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. Ornithologist Georgann Schmalz will discuss winter birding in Georgia. Bring lunch; $10 donation requested. 770-535-1976, www.elachee.org.

For Get Out

“In Acting Shakespeare,” Gainesville. 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 22-24. Buford Community Center’s Sylvia Beard Theatre, 2200 Buford Highway, Buford. $16-$18 adults, $14-$16 seniors and $10-$12 for students and children. 678-7173624, www.gainesvilletheatrealliance.org.

Feb. 22:

lOOkING AHeAD

“Master Harold ... and the Boys,” Lawrenceville. Feb. 14 through March 3, 8 p.m. Thursday–Saturday; 2:30 p.m. Sunday. Aurora Theatre, 128 E. Pike St., Lawrenceville. $15. 678-226-6222, www.auroratheatre.com.

“Opal’s Baby,” Gainesville. 7:30 p.m. Feb. 14, 15, 16, 21 and 22, 2:30 p.m.

Feb. 17 and 23. Brenau Downtown Center, 301 SW Main St., Gainesville. $17 adults and seniors, $13 students and children. 770-534-8420. www. georgiamountainplayers.org.

Giraffe Week, Gainesville. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 11-15.

Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St. SE , Gainesville. $1 with paid admission to museum, INK Members are free. 770-536-1900.

Feb 21: Feb. 23:

theater

family

Art with Heart Humane Society of Northeast Georgia fundraiser, Gainesville.

7-10 p.m. Feb. 15.

Elks Club, 1547 Riverside Drive, Gainesville. $40.

770-532-6617, www.

HSNEGA.org For Get Out

arts Associated Pre For Get Out

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go o movies Thursday, February 14, 2013

Thursday, February 14, 2013 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

A good day for ‘Die Hard’ to do so Willis action franchise gets long in tooth

By Roger Moore

McClatchy-Tribune News Service Yeah, Happy Valentine’s Day, Mother Russia.

But is it “A Good Day to Die Hard,” a good time to be had by all as Bruce Willis takes his fifth shot at “shootin’ all the scumbags”?

Naaah.

Loud and tedious, “Die Hard” No. 5 is a shaky-cam/ Sensurround blast of bullets and ‘A Good Day bombs, digital explosions and death defying feats of defying to Die Hard’ death. Not a decent villain or Starring: Bruce Willis, Mary catchphrase in it, it’s an attempt Elizabeth Winstead, Jai to CIA-up the New York-copCourtney, Sebastian Koch, takes-on-the-world’s-terrorists Patrick Stewart franchise. And it doesn’t work.

Rated: R, for violence and Director John Moore (“Behind language Enemy Lines”) spends an Runtime: 1 hour, 37 minutes endless opening filled with noPhotos by Frank Masi | 20th Century Fox/Associated Press Grade: 1.5 stars names speaking Russian and laying out an elaborate scheme Bruce Willis, left, is John McClane and Jai Courtney is his son, Jack, in a scene from “A Good Day to Die Hard.” to nab/ kill or release a rich prisoner they’re trying to slip out “political prisoner” (Sebastian of the country has. Or doesn’t.

Jeff Koch). Moore gave his Marker’s Vast arsenals turn up, at their cinematographer a Steadicam column will convenience.

Unlimited supplies and a case of Red Bull, and shot return next of lead are exchanged with the whole thing with a jittery week. legions of evil minions. frame that doesn’t mask how With “Red Dawn” remade, dull the action beats are, and badly, and Stallone and They don’t get along. how REALLY dull the chatty Schwarzenegger stinking up “Need a hug?” father-son bonding scenes incinemas in the weeks leading “We’re not really a hugging between the action beats are. up to this, you kind of hoped the family.”

John McClane (Bruce Willis) is last ’80s action star to take his They crash through an epic in Moscow to check up on a son shot could conjure up a little of Moscow traffic jam — which (Jai Courtney of “Spartacus”) the old magic.

Moore & Co. shoot and edit who’s in jail. Turns out the Willis, sad to say, doesn’t. into a jumble of crushed cars estranged son is CIA, and he’s For 25 years, it’s generally and feeble wisecracks from the on a mission. And dad, who’s been “A Good Day to Die Hard.” villains — “Boy, dis guy iz really “on vacation,” is interfering. Or But these last two films have gettink on my nerves.” saving the day, depending on neutered the franchise and They get into fights with your point of view.

Bruce Willis, left, is John McClane in a scene with Jai Courtney and Sewrecked any hopes that Bruce helicopters. In the middle of The kid calls the old man by bastian Kochm right, in a scene from “A Good Day to Die Hard.” as McClane might be Bourne the city. Not that local law his first name. “John? Whatever again. The guy can still take a and physics-defying stunt. played out. McClane needs to enforcement notices. happened to ‘Dad’?” licking — still pull those shards But the character is weary, trot out “I’m retired” from here And it’s all in pursuit of some “Yeah, whatever happened to of glass out after every deathand the “I’m on vacation” line is on out. him?” mysterious “file,” which the

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gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, February 14, 2013

Showtimes

Identity Thief’ grabs $34.6M to open at No. 1

Bargain shows denoted by parenthesis ( ). Movie times are subject to change; check with theaters for updated schedules.

120 Green Hill Circle NW, Gainesville

Regal Mall Of Georgia Stadium 20 678-482-5858

3333 Buford Drive, Suite 3000,

11

Habersham Hills Cinemas 6 706-776-7469

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Hollywood Stadium Cinemas 770-539-9200 Beautiful Creatures (PG-13) Thu. 4:00-7:00-9:30 Fri.-Sun. 1:004:00-7:00-9:30 Bullet to the Head (R) Thu.-Sun. 7:30-10:00 Escape From Planet Earth (PG) Fri.Sun. 3:15-7:45 Escape From Planet Earth 3D (PG) Thu. 10:00 Fri.-Sun. 1:00-5:3010:00 A Good Day to Die Hard (R) Thu. 4:30-5:30-7:00-7:45-9:30-10:00 Fri.-Sun. 1:00-1:45-3:15-4:305:30-7:00-7:45-9:30-10:00 Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters (R) Thu. 4:45-7:30-9:45 Fri.-Sun. 2:15-4:45-7:30-9:45 Identity Thief (R) Thu. 4:15-7:009:30 Fri.-Sun. 1:30-4:15-7:009:30 Lincoln (PG-13) Thu. 4:30-8:00 Fri.-Sun. 1:15-4:30-8:00 Mama (PG-13) Thu. 4:45-7:159:45 Fri.-Sun. 2:15-4:45-7:159:45 The Metropolitan Opera: Rigoletto Live (Not Rated) Sat. 12:55 Parental Guidance (PG) Thu. 4:45 Fri.-Sun. 2:00-4:45 Parker (R) Thu. 4:00-6:45 Safe Haven (PG-13) Thu. 4:155:00-7:00-8:00-9:45 Fri.-Sun. 1:15-2:00-4:15-5:00-7:00-8:009:45 Side Effects (R) Thu. 4:15-7:159:45 Fri.-Sun. 1:45-4:15-7:159:45 Silver Linings Playbook (R) Thu. 4:00-6:45-9:30 Fri.-Sun. 1:154:00-6:45-9:30 Warm Bodies (PG-13) Thu. 4:307:15-10:00 Fri.-Sun. 2:00-4:307:15-10:00 Zero Dark Thirty (R) Thu. 5:00-8:30 Fri. 1:30-5:00-8:30 Sat. 8:30 Sun. 1:30-5:00-8:30

PAGE

JOHN BRAMLEY | Warner Bros./Associated Press

Jeremy Irons, left, and Viola Davis appear in a scene from “Beautiful Creatures,” opening this weekend at area theaters.

Buford

Beautiful Creatures (PG-13) Thu. 1:15-1:50-4:00-4:357:05-7:40-9:55-10:25 Fri.-Sat. 10:15-11:05-1:15-1:50-4:004:35-7:05-7:40-9:55-10:25 Sun. 10:15-1:15-1:50-4:00-4:35-7:057:40-9:55-10:25 Bullet to the Head (R) Thu. 12:252:50-5:15-7:45-10:20 Django Unchained (R) Thu. 12:053:30-6:55-10:25 Fri.-Sun. 9:10 Escape From Planet Earth (PG) Fri.Sat. 10:15-2:45-7:15-11:55 Sun. 2:45-7:15-11:55 Escape From Planet Earth 3D (PG) Fri.-Sun. 12:00-12:30-2:20-4:405:00-7:00-9:35 A Good Day to Die Hard (R) Thu. 12:30-1:00-2:50-3:20-5:10-5:407:30-8:00-9:50-10:20-12:10 Fri.-Sun. 10:20-12:30-1:00-2:503:20-5:10-5:40-7:30-8:00-9:5010:20-12:10 A Good Day to Die Hard: The IMAX Experience (R) Thu.-Sun. 12:002:20-4:40-7:00-9:20-11:40 Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters (R) Thu.-Sun. 12:50-5:40-10:10 Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters 3D (R) Thu. 3:20-8:00 Fri.-Sat. 10:35-3:20-8:00 Sun. 3:20-8:00 The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. 12:05-3:35 Identity Thief (R) Thu. 12:001:20-2:40-4:00-5:25-6:35-8:059:10-10:40-11:45 Fri.-Sun. 10:30-12:00-1:20-2:40-4:005:25-6:35-8:05-9:10-10:40-11:45 Mama (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. 11:502:20-4:50-7:15-9:45-12:15 Parental Guidance (PG) Thu.-Sun.

7:40-10:05 Parker (R) Thu. 11:55-2:35-5:157:55-10:35 Safe Haven (PG-13) Thu. 12:101:40-2:45-4:15-5:20-7:00-7:559:35-10:30-12:10 Fri.-Sun. 10:50-12:10-1:40-2:45-4:155:20-7:00-7:55-9:35-10:30-12:10 Side Effects (R) Thu.-Sat. 11:552:30-5:00-7:30-10:00 Sun. 2:305:00-7:30-10:00 Silver Linings Playbook (R) Thu. 1:30-4:25-7:20-10:10 Fri.-Sat. 10:45-1:30-4:25-7:20-10:10 Sun. 1:30-4:25-7:20-10:10 Top Gun 3D (PG) Thu.-Sun. 11:502:35-5:05-7:50-10:35 Warm Bodies (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. 12:30-2:55-5:20-7:45-10:15 Wreck-It Ralph (PG) Thu.-Sun. 12:10-2:40-5:10 Zero Dark Thirty (R) Thu.-Sun. 7:05-10:25

Movies 400 678-513-4400

415 Atlanta Road, Cumming

Beautiful Creatures (PG-13) Thu.Sun. (1:15-4:10) 7:05-10:00 Escape From Planet Earth (PG) Fri.Sun. (2:20) 7:00 Escape From Planet Earth 3D (PG) Fri.-Sun. (12:00-4:40) 9:20 A Good Day to Die Hard (R) Thu.Sun. (12:15-1:10-2:45-3:40-5:15) 6:10-7:45-8:40-10:15 Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters 3D (R) Thu. (12:25-2:50-5:15) 7:4010:05 Fri.-Sun. (12:05-2:30-4:55) 7:20-9:45 The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

Jason Bateman and Melissa McCarthy’s “Identity Thief” has made off with the weekend box-office title with a $34.6 million debut. The top 20 movies at U.S. and Canadian theaters Friday through Sunday, followed by studio, gross, total gross and number of weeks in release, compiled by Hollywood.com: 1. “Identity Thief,” Universal, $34,551,025, $34,551,025, one week.

2. “Warm Bodies,” Lionsgate, $11,356,090, $36,481,172, two weeks.

3. “Side Effects,” Open Road Films, $9,303,145, one week.

4. “Silver Linings Playbook,” Weinstein Co., $6,425,271, $89,519,510, 13 weeks.

5. “Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters,” Paramount, $5,753,165, $43,836,018, three weeks.

6. “Mama,” Universal, $4,229,665, $63,951,810, four weeks.

7. “Zero Dark Thirty,” Sony, $4,006,860, $83,567,450, eight weeks.

8. “Argo,” Warner Bros., $2,375,344, $123,608,957, 18 weeks.

9. “Django Unchained,” Weinstein Co., $2,303,495, $154,516,627, seven weeks.

10. “Bullet to the Head,” Warner Bros., $2,078,192, $8,269,214, two weeks.

Associated Press

(PG-13) Thu.-Sun. (12:45-4:25) 8:05 Identity Thief (R) Thu.-Sun. (1:154:00) 7:20-10:15 Les Misérables (PG-13) Thu. (1:005:00) 8:30 Parental Guidance (PG) Thu.-Sun. (12:00-2:30-5:00) 7:30-10:00 Safe Haven (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. (1:00-3:45) 7:10-9:55 Side Effects (R) Thu.-Sun. (1:204:15) 7:25-10:10 Silver Linings Playbook (R) Thu.Sun. (12:35-3:45) 7:00-9:50 Warm Bodies (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. (12:10-2:40-5:10) 7:40-10:15

2115 Cody Road, Mount Airy

Argo (R) Thu. 4:00-7:00-9:45 Beautiful Creatures (PG-13) Fri.Sun. 1:15-4:00-7:00-9:45 Bullet to the Head (R) Thu. 5:0010:00 Escape From Planet Earth (PG) Fri.Sun. 12:45-3:00-5:15-7:30-9:45 A Good Day to Die Hard (R) Fri.Sun. 1:00-3:15-5:30-7:45-10:00 Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters (R) Thu. 5:00-7:30-10:00 Identity Thief (R) Thu. 4:15-7:009:30 Fri.-Sun. 1:45-4:45-7:1510:00 Mama (PG-13) Thu. 4:30-7:159:45 Parental Guidance (PG) Thu. 7:30 Safe Haven (PG-13) Fri.-Sun. 1:304:15-7:00-9:45 Warm Bodies (PG-13) Thu. 4:307:15-9:30 Fri.-Sun. 2:00-4:307:15-9:30

Dawson 400 Stadium Cinemas 706-216-1622 189 North 400 Center Lane, Dawsonville

Beautiful Creatures (PG-13) Thu. 4:00-7:15-9:15 Fri.-Sun. 1:004:00-7:15-9:35 Escape From Planet Earth (PG) Fri.Sun. 12:10-4:45-9:30 Escape From Planet Earth 3D (PG) Fri.-Sun. 2:30-7:20 A Good Day to Die Hard (R) Thu. 4:40-7:30-9:50 Fri.-Sun. 12:002:20-4:40-7:30-9:50 Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters (R) Thu. 4:35-7:05-10:00 Fri.-Sun. 12:10-2:25-4:35-7:05-10:00 Identity Thief (R) Thu. 4:10-7:059:45 Fri.-Sun. 1:15-4:10-7:059:45 Mama (PG-13) Thu. 4:40-7:0010:00 Fri.-Sun. 12:00-2:20-4:407:00-10:00 Safe Haven (PG-13) Thu. 4:257:00-9:35 Fri.-Sun. 1:30-4:257:00-9:35 Side Effects (R) Thu. 4:15-7:109:40 Fri.-Sun. 1:40-4:15-7:109:40 Silver Linings Playbook (R) Thu. 4:20-7:10-9:20 Fri.-Sun. 1:354:20-7:10-9:20 Warm Bodies (PG-13) Thu. 4:557:15-9:45 Fri.-Sun. 12:15-2:354:55-7:15-9:45

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go o movies

Thursday, February 14, 2013 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

now showing Movie reviews from Associated Press, McClatchy-Tribune News Service. Stars out of four.

OPENING

‘A Good Day to Die Hard’ ■ Review, 10 ‘Beautiful Creatures’

HHH (PG-13 for violence, scary images and some sexual material). Young love, so sorely tested by vampirism and zombification in “Twilight” and “Warm Bodies,” finds the road to romance sunnier in “Beautiful Creatures,” in which two teens pair up despite the fact that one of them is a witch in training. The one-liners drawl from the lips of the South Carolina characters like Spanish moss dripping from the oaks in a script so witty it attracted Oscar winners Emma Thompson and Jeremy Irons and Oscar nominee Viola Davis in supporting roles. Alden Ehrenreich gives a breakout performance as Ethan, a dreamer and square peg in the round hole of rural Gatlin, S.C. He’s jilted the pretty, but less bookish and more fundamentalist Emily (Zoey Deutch), but open to the charms of the “new girl,” a raven-haired vision who appeared to him in dreams. Lena (Alice Englert) is a 15-year-old Southern Gothic Goth Girl — dark and mysterious, an aspiring poetess with numbers tattooed on one hand and a sullen sarcasm that is catnip to Ethan.Lena resists the warnings of her patrician uncle (Irons), a recluse who presides over an estate that once encompassed the whole town. Of course they’re fated to be together.

And the fact that she’s a witch, and that only he’s supposed to know? That just doubles down on the

JAMES BRIDGES | Relativity Media/Associated Press

Josh Duhamel, left, and Julianne Hough appear in a scene from “Safe Haven,” out in theaters this week.

doomed love/forbidden love thing. Veteran writer-director Richard LaGravenese (“Water for Elephants,” “Freedom Writers”) boiled the Kami Garcia-Margaret Stohl novel down to characters, sharp dialogue and a palpable sense of place.

The story arc has few surprises — the odd flipped expectation or character in disguise. We can guess the climax in the opening scenes, and figure out the role the mysterious Amma and bombshell witchcoven cousin Ridley (Emmy Rossum), tarted up like a lingerie model, will play in that finale. But there’s something so delicious when Brits such as Thompson and Irons sink their fangs — sorry — into Deep South dialect. The film bogs down in the usual attempts at reinventing witchcraft — “We prefer the term ‘casters’” — and burdensome research the kids have to do to ensure their love isn’t “doomed” after all. It’s Ehrenreich who makes the romantic longing believable enough for us to root for these impassioned teens, even if we know what Ethan doesn’t — “15 will get you 20.”

‘Safe Haven’

HH (PG-13, for thematic material involving threatening behavior, violence and sexuality). The movies based on the novels of Nicholas Sparks always emphasize the simple pleasures. A quiet locale, a leisurely stroll down the beach, a romance that doesn’t begin in a bar and end in bed that same night.

Those simple pleasures are in the forefront of “Safe Haven,” another sweetly treacly tale from the “beach book” author who gave us “The Notebook,” “Dear John” and “The Last Song.” There’s another beach town — sleepy, bucolic Southport, N.C. — another pair of lovers, each with his (Josh Duhamel) or her (Julianne Hough) “big secrets.” And as they court, the Nebraska native Sparks serves up more of the homey homilies he’s picked up, studying the South. The girl, Katie, is on the run from Boston and the locals, especially the handsome widowed shopkeeper Alex, take an interest and try to make her fresh start work out. There’s an overly nosy/overly friendly neighbor (Cobie Smulders) and a twinkly old

uncle (Red West) to prod Alex into approaching the pretty new waitress in town.

And a couple of cute kids eyeball Katie, one hoping she’ll replace her dead mom, the other fearing that same thing. Director Lasse Hallstrom (“Salmon Fishing in the Yemen,” “Chocolat”) goes to some pains to hide each character’s secrets.

The Boston cop (David Lyons) obsessed with tracking down Katie uses more police work than common sense to find her, and we glimpse the late wife’s attic office that Alex rarely visits. Hallstrom and his screenwriters may be stuck with Sparks’ formula, but they take advantage of the geography, the leads and a couple of homespun supporting players. The offhandedly charming Duhamel is more seasoned and better at this sort of laid-back slow-burn love than the still-green Hough, who seems too young for somebody with this much baggage. It’s a movie for people who nod their heads at the revelation that “Life is full of second chances.” There’s tragedy and heartbreak, in the past and possibly in the future, and a story that involves no heavy lifting — few surprises, and so “safe” that there’s nothing that anybody would consider “edgy.” From “Message in a Bottle” to “Nights in Rodanthe,” that’s a formula that’s made Sparks rich.

Continuing ‘Side Effects’

HHH (R for sexuality, nudity, violence and language). The baseline mystery of Steven Soderbergh’s masterful Hitchcockian thriller is “What’s really going on here?” The film keeps viewers emotionally invested yet intellectually off-balance, suffusing even the most ostensibly

straightforward scenes with a sense of free-floating anxiety. It pays off with edge-of-the-seat chills, walloping surprises and an uncanny ability to make complex plotting digestible.

Rooney Mara plays depressive Manhattanite Emily Taylor, whose husband, Martin (Channing Tatum), following a stellar Wall Street career, was convicted of insider trading.

Now freed, he attempts to rebuild their damaged marriage and restart his career. Hollow-eyed Emily asks her psychiatrist, Dr. Jonathan Banks

(Jude Law), to prescribe Ablixia, a promising new antidepressant. After a due-diligence check-in with Emily’s former therapist (Catherine Zeta-Jones), he agrees. Of course, any psychopharmaceutical comes with side effects such as disorientation — and possibly murder.

Thanks to a tremendously crafted, diabolically twisty script, almost nothing plays according to expectations.

The film drops weaponsgrade reversals on its characters and the audience, as well. The film is terrifically well cast.

gainesvilletimes.com/getout •

Thursday, February 14, 2013

Behind the runway From staff reports A behind-the-scenes look at the glamorous world of modeling is the next feature in the Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers sponsored by The Arts Council, University of North Georgia, Oakwood and South Arts.

The film “girl model,” directed and produced

by Ashley Sabin and David Redmon, is the fourth film in this series and will be screened at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 14 at University of North GeorgiaGainesville campus’ Martha Nesbitt Academic Building IV on Mathis Drive.

Tickets are $7 adults, $5 for students and seniors ages 65 and older.

Afterward, ticketholders can attend a reception with the filmmaker for questions and answers.

In this film, “girl model” follows two protagonists in the industry: Ashley, a deeply ambivalent model scout who scours the Siberian countryside looking for fresh faces to send to the Japanese market; and one of her discoveries, Nadya, a 13year-old plucked from the Siberian countryside and

‘Girl Model’ What: Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers When: 7 p.m. Feb. 14 Where: Martha Nesbitt Academic Building, UNG-Gainesville How much: $7, $5 students and seniors More info: 770534-2787, www. theartscouncil.net

dropped into the center of Tokyo with promises of a profitable career.

After Ashley’s initial discovery of Nadya, the two rarely meet again, but their stories are inextricably bound. As Nadya’s optimism about rescuing her family from their financial difficulties grows, her dreams contrast against Ashley’s jaded outlook about the industry’s corrosive influence.

Redmon and Sabin have produced, directed, edited and photographed five feature documentaries: “Mardi Gras: Made in China” (2005), “Kamp Katrina” (2007), “Intimidad” (2008), “Invisible Girlfriend” (2009) and now “girl model” (2011).

For Get Out

Models line up to be judged in a scene from “girl model.”

The final two films scheduled in the series are “Free China,” March 28 and “Strong!” April 18, both at the Smithgall Arts Center.

Each screening includes a meet and greet afterward with the director.

Trailers for each film in the series may be viewed at the Arts Council website, www.theartscouncil.net.

For tickets and more information, call 770534-2787 or visit www. theartscouncil.net.

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Thursday, February 14, 2013 | gainesvilletimes.com/getoutH

Swinging and swooning Voices of North Georgia offer Romantic Cabaret From staff reports The Voices of North Georgia have their hearts, minds and voices set on the glory of the Golden Age of Hollywood as they present the fourth annual Romantic Cabaret.

The event will be held in the grand ballroom of the Gainesville Civic Center on Friday, Feb. 15.

This year’s theme is “Dancing in the Moonlight,” as VNG pays homage to the great music of the 1920s, ’30s and ’40s.

“This has been a highlight of our musical season for the past three years,” said Jean McCorlew, VNG hospitality chairwoman. “Plans are set in motion several months in advance to ensure that our guests have a delightful evening of entertainment. We have something for everyone; food, song, dance, and a sparkly venue for all to enjoy.”

The evening’s activities will

begin at 7 p.m. with several songs from the Big Band era by Voices of North Georgia and continue with dancing to the soothing sounds of the Sentimental Journey Jazz Band and a selection of desserts, punch and coffee.

Sentimental Journey is an 18piece orchestra that is part of the Believer’s Band of Gainesville’s First United Methodist Church.

The group got its start in Big Band music after a rehearsal of an arrangement of Glenn Miller’s “Little Brown Jug” and have been jazzing up the community ever since.

“Many busy people don’t have the time during the week or want to get in the crowds for Valentine’s Day, so this a great option. Every year our Romantic Cabaret just gets bigger and bigger, so I guess word is getting around about how much fun we have,” McCorlew said.

Tickets are $15, and can

go o music Music concert will help out teachers

‘Romantic Cabaret’

From staff reports

When: 7-9:30 p.m. Friday Feb. 15 Where: Gainesville Civic Center, Grand Ballroom, 830 Green St., Gainesville Tickets: $15 More info: 770-536-1924,

The Lumpkin County “Invest in the Future” initiative will hold a Bluegrass/Country Music Concert on Saturday, Feb. 16.

At 7 p.m. at Lumpkin County High School, bands from all across North Georgia will saw, pluck and strum their instruments with all the funds going directly to Lumpkin County School teachers.

The concert will feature John Martin and the Southern Drive Band, The BS Band with Gary McCullough and group, The Buzzard Mountain Boys and the Pick & Bow Traditional Music School students.

Tickets, which will be available at the door, are $10 for adults and $5 for students. Lumpkin County High School is located at 2001

www.voicesofnorthgeorgia. com

be purchased at the door this year, though seating is limited.

Reservations are advised and can be made by calling 678-450-5982.

Tables for up to eight guests can be reserved.

Cocktail attire for the swanky affair is recommended.

“You’re invited to dress up in your Hollywood duds and join us on the red carpet. Yes, we’ve got one! It’s going to be a great time for all,” said McCorlew.

Indian Drive in Dahlonega.

Organizers said the concert is guaranteed to be entertaining for any music lover, but even more importantly, will be a direct benefit to the teachers and students of Lumpkin County.

Invest in the Future is a Lumpkin County Retired Educators Association-sponsored initiative to raise funds to provide teachers with mini-grants for enrichment activities in the classroom.

A number of fundraising activities are planned and carried out by an Invest in the Future Task Force composed of retired educators, school employees and concerned community members.

For more information about the concert or the initiative, email anitamiddleton@windstream.net.

gainesvilletimes.com/getout •

Thursday, February 14, 2013

Korean pianist visits Gainesville From staff reports South Korean pianist Yoonie Han will perform Sunday in Gainesville as part of the ProMusica Concert Series. The concert will begin at 4 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 751 Green St. NW in Gainesville.

Han has won top prizes from distinguished international competitions and the highest accolades for her performances in major concert halls in the U.S. and around the world.

Last year, she made European debuts with the Berliner Symphoniker at the Berlin Philharmonie Hall, the Bergamo Festival in Italy, and Salle Cortot in Paris.

This year she embarks on a recital tour to Steinway & Sons’ locations in the U.S. and Europe, Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, Slovak Philharmonic Hall, and solos with Philippe Entremont and the Boca Raton Symphonia.

She has been honored with the Gawon Music Award as the most brilliant pianist aged 17 to 31 of any nationality who possesses the most promising potential for global prominence. Following her 2001 grand-prize award in the Korea National Music Competition, the Korean Ministry of Culture named her its “most promising young artist.”

Han made her solo debut with the Seoul Philharmonic at age 13 and has since

concert calendar This week

Russo & Noe: Valentine’s Evening with the music of Sinatra and Martin, Dahlonega. 8 p.m. Feb. 14.

The Historic Holly Theater, 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega.

Relive the fun and romance of a 1961 Vegas evening.

Adults $18, children and students $12. www. hollytheater.com.

Clay Coley with Destitute Way, Dahlonega. 8:30 p.m.

Feb. 15. The Crimson Moon Cafe, 24 N. Park St., Dahlonega. $12.

ProMusica Concert Pianist Yoonie Han When: 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 17 Where: First Baptist Church, 751 Green St. NW, Gainesville Tickets: $20 More info: 770967-2768, www. promusicaconcertseries. com

performed with the Buffalo Philharmonic, Helsinki Philharmonic, Houston Symphony, Banff Festival Orchestra and numerous others. Her performances have also been broadcast on WQXR-New York and on National Public Radio’s For Get Out “Artist Showcases.”

The ProMusica Concert Series has brought music performed by world-class musicians to the Gainesville area for more than 50 years.

ProMuisca Concert Series offers free admission to students of any age elementary through college. To ensure ticket availability, request for student tickets should be made in advance of the concert by contacting the ProMusica office at 770-0967-2768. Adult tickets are $20.

For more information and to order tickets, call 770-967-2768 or visit the website, www.promusicaconcertseries. com.

706-864-3982, www. thecrimsonmoon.com.

Traditional Music Jam, Dahlonega. 2-4 p.m.

Feb.16. The Crimson Moon, 24 N Park St., Dahlonega. 706-864-3982.

Bluegrass/Country Music Concert, Dahlonega. 7 p.m.

Feb. 16. Lumpkin County High School, 2001 Indian Drive, Dahlonega. $10 adults, $5 students.

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Thursday, February 14, 2013

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