Get Out July 4, 2013

Nashville songwriter Tony Arata shares his story, Page 6

No fear of flying Aircraft to land in Gainesville for show, Page 5

Thursday July 4, 2013

gainesvilletimes.com /getout

get out Northeast Georgia’s entertainment guide

PAGE

2

g o inside

Thursday, July 4, 2013 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

on the web

music

http://wordsmith.org/anagram/

Ever wonder if your name can spell something else? Or do you ever like to spell a word backwards to see if it creates another word such as desserts spelled backwards is stressed. If so, check out this website for different anagrams for every word in the book.

For Get Out

on the cover

Get Out file photo

Aircrafts ranging from Vietnam-era Huey helicopters to Cessnas will land at Lee Gilmer Memorial Airport in Gainesville for the 45th annual Cracker Fly-In. PAGE 4

Songwriter Tony Arata recounts his love of music and his journey into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.

PAGE 6

Despite its controversy “The Lone Ranger” wit and adventurous spirit overcome other film flaws in the this tribute to an old radio program. On the other hand, Disney “Despicable Me 2” fails to capitalize on the creative and unpredictability of the original.

PAGE 10-11

family

With inclement weather in the forecast, some Fourth of July activities have been postponed while others will still go on.

PAGE 4

Thursday, July 4, 2013

gainesvilletimes.com/getout •

get out

PAGE

3

PAGE

4

go o y famil

Thursday, July 4, 2013 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

Holiday fun erupts today, Saturday Some Fourth of July events alter schedule

Check for changes in times, dates and cancellations in The Times’ Region section.

downtown square, the Gold City Classic Car Club Show at Courthouse Hill on East Main Street and Dahlonega Literary Festival’s Fourth of July Used Book Sale until 5 p.m. on the square.

■■ Noon Kids Fun Zone in Hancock Park and Patriotic Ceremony on the west lawn of the Gold Museum ■■ 2 p.m. old-fashioned watermelon eating contest and Appalachian Jam on the Dahlonega Gold Museum Lawn ■■ 5 p.m. Independence Day Parade on the University of North Georgia campus.

The fireworks show can be viewed amid a patriotic dining experience at 6 p.m. in the dining hall of the University of North Georgia plaza while enjoying music by the Kurt Thomas Band on the drill field.

Tickets are $50 for individuals and $400 for a table of eight.

Tickets may be purchased at the Visitor Center in Dahlonega or call 706-864-3711.

From staff reports Independence Day has arrived and several places will explode with excitement this weekend as fireworks light up the skies of Northeast Georgia.

If you are looking to celebrate with firepower, check out the following locales and head out for some fun.

In Buford

The Mall of Georgia’s 11th annual Fabulous Fourth of July Celebration begins at 2 p.m.

July 4.

Festivities begin with visitors registering for prizes and live entertainment. Fireworks begin at 9:15 p.m., followed by the film “Playing for Keeps” at 9:45 p.m.

The fireworks display will launch from the Nordstrom overflow lot. Attendees are not permitted to park or sit in sections of the Nordstrom’s parking lot, which will be marked. For the easiest entrance and exit, families should park in the Dillard’s lot.

Lake Lanier Islands Resort’s “Red, White and Luau Fourth of July Celebration” on July 4 is still scheduled for Thursday at 7000 Lanier Islands Parkway.

However, the fireworks show has been changed to Saturday night.

Live music presented by Rock 100 will feature The Geeks band and Blair Crimmins & The HULAgans at Sunset Cove.

Blair Crimmins & The HULAgans will play from 4-6 p.m. followed by The Geeks from 7-9 p.m.

In Dahlonega

Dahlonega’s Fourth of July

In Gainesville

Get Out file photo

Shane Black grills burgers at Laurel Park with daughter Katie, 4, and family friend Brody, 5, on the Fourth of July last year as they prepare to watch the annual American Legion fireworks display.

Celebration will begin today with the races, but the rest of the activities including the fireworks will be Saturday because of forecasted rain.

Today, the third annual Firecracker 5K/10K race and fun run starts at 7:30 a.m. Both the 5K and 10K start at 7:30 a.m. and cost $30-$35. All

proceeds from the event fund the fireworks display later in the evening.

On Saturday, activities include: ■■ 9 a.m. Pups and Patriots Fashion Strut in Hancock Park Pavilion.

■■ 10 a.m. the Community Service Corner on the historic

The Paul E. Bolding Post 7 American Legion’s annual Independence Day celebration and firework display was set to go off for its 50th time this year at Laurel Park. However, the event has been rescheduled for Labor Day.

In Blairsville

Independence Day at Vogel State Park is still set for 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 4.

The event includes a flag-raising ceremony, bicycle parade, pedal boat races, sandcastle-building competition, watermelon eating, sack races, egg tosses and greased-pole climbing.

Admission is $3.50-$10 per person with a $5 parking fee.

Firefighters to ignite explosive display Suches fireworks display tonight From staff reports A Suches tradition will continue Thursday, July 4, unless rain causes the event to be rescheduled for the weekend, according to its website.

The Suches Fire Department’s annual Independence Day fireworks display will be in the field behind the Woody Gap School. Fireworks will begin at dark, but the festivities start earlier as the Suches community and visitors gather at 7 p.m. for hot dogs, soft drinks and snacks.

A duck race will be in the creek behind the school with the winning duck receiving a prize. Proceeds will support local civic activities.

Patriotic and old-time music also can be heard on the grounds.

The Suches Fire Department Independence Day fireworks has grown from a casual gathering of the department in one member’s backyard with a few bottle rockets to an event recognized as one of the best in the area. It draws large numbers of community residents and visitors from miles away.

The Suches Fire Department invites everyone in the area to join them in their celebration of the country’s independence on July 4 at Woody Gap School in Suches.

The two fire stations in Suches are a part of the countywide fire department which consists of the paid headquarters station in Blairsville and a dozen volunteer stations in five districts throughout the county. Career and volunteer firefighters and first responders are dedicated to the protection of life and property of Union County residents and visitors alike.

CMYK

goo family

gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, July 4, 2013

PAGE

5

Flyers land, peek at various aircrafts Cracker Fly-In to descend go o on area airport Saturday y famil From staff reports

45th annual Cracker Fly In

From monoplanes to biplanes and helicopters to jets, the 45th annual Cracker Fly-In on Saturday will have something for aircraft enthusiasts, collectors and restorers, young and old.

More than 2,000 visitors are expected at Lee Gilmer Memorial Airport, 1137 Aviation Way, to view nearly 165 aircraft from all across the Southeast. Aircraft judging will be in several categories.

The family-friendly festivities kick off with a pancake breakfast at 7:30 a.m., which costs $5 per person. Fly-in tickets are $2 donation at the gate to help offset costs. Children ages 12 and younger are admitted free.

Rides in a Vietnam-era Huey helicopter as well as

Waco rides are back by popular demand. Aircraft on display will include Blackhawk static, Austin Healeys and the new Cessna.

Organizers are encouraging attendees to bring their cameras for photo opportunities with the planes.

Touching down fashionably late is fine, but don’t be too tardy for the high-flying party because things will wrap up at 3:30 p.m. Saturday.

Family events

Cabbage Patch Kids Babyland General Hospital, 300 Nok Drive, Cleveland. $15. 706-865-2171.

This week

Upcoming

Camp Shakespeare, Atlanta. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Mondays through Fridays.

July 8-19 for “As You Like It” and “Twelfth Night.”

July 22 through Aug. 2 for Julius Caesar and Hamlet. $500. Georgia Shakespeare Conant Performing Arts Center, Oglethorpe University, 4484 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta. 404-504-3401, gashakesppeare.org.

Camp Cabbage Summer Craft Class, Cleveland.

10-11:30 a.m. July 8-19.

When: 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, July 6 Where: Gainesville Airport, 1137 Aviation Way

“Rabbit on the Moon and the Other Animals of the Summer Night Sky,” Dahlonega. 8 p.m. July 12, July 19, July 26. Coleman Planetarium, Health and Natural Sciences Building, University of North Georgia, 82 College Circle, Dahlonega. Free. jjones@ northgeorgia.edu.

Second Annual Christmas in July, Buford. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 13. 2640 Sawnee Ave., Buford. Free. Benefit for Gentle Interventions General Operating Fund,

Get Out file photo

Burt Love greets a friend as he arrives at the 2012 Cracker Fly-In in his Legend Cub Light Sport airplane after a trip from Murphy, N.C. a free child advocacy for Mitochondrial Children.

678-943-5340.

Magic Show, Flowery Branch. 10 a.m. July 17.

5989 Spout Springs Road, Flowery Branch. 770-967-

6737, goddardschool.com.

Scale Model of Our Solar System tour, Gainesville. 10 a.m. July 20. Gainesville Square, Gainesville. fasterlock@att.net Big Thinkers Science

Show, Flowery Branch. 10 a.m. July 24. 5989 Spout Springs Road, Flowery Branch. 770-967-6737, goddardschool.com “The Croods,” Gainesville.

7:30 p.m. July 25. The

Arts Council Smithgall Arts Center, 331 Spring St. SW, Gainesville. Premovie activities will be for children. Adults $7, students and seniors $5.

770-534-2787.

Buy one Milkshake,

GET ONE MILKSHAKE FREE! *Offer available after 5:00 p.m.

Home of tHe

Messy Burger 1856 Unit 10 Thompson Bridge Rd 770-536-6624

For Youth Development For Healthy Living For Social Responsibility 2455 Howard Rd • Gainesville, GA 30501 770-297-9622 • gamountainsymca.org

PAGE

6

go o music

Thursday, July 4, 2013 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

Nashville songwriter shares story, songs Georgia native to play, sing next weekend

Summer Songwriter Series featuring Tony Arata When: 7 p.m. Saturday, July 13 Where: Brenau Downtown Center, 301 Main St., Gainesville Cost: $15

BY MEREDITH PRUITT

mpruitt@gainesvilletimes.com It is likely if you listen to country music, you know a song Tony Arata has written.

The Georgia native — who lives in Nashville, Tenn., with his wife, Jaymi — is a recent inductee of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. Born in Savannah, he grew up on Tybee Island. He moved to Nashville in 1986 to follow his songwriting career, which gained attention from many famous country music artists.

In his upcoming performance at Brenau Downtown Center on July 13, he will perform a few of the hits he has written for artists such as Patty Loveless, Lee Roy Parnell, Reba McEntire, Trisha Yearwood, Emmylou Harris and Garth Brooks. One of his most famous songs “The Dance,” was voted Song of the Year at The Academy of Country Music.

It was recorded by Garth Brooks. Arata has recorded three solo albums featuring guest recordings by some of country music’s biggest stars.

The Times asks Arata what has made his career so fulfilling.

Question: How long have you been in the music industry?

Answer: I started writing songs, in earnest, when I was a junior at Georgia Southern College. That would have been back in 1978. I graduated from

For Get Out

Tony Arata will perform Saturday, July 13, as part of the Summer Songwriter Series at the Brenau Downtown Center. He will be joined by his friend Fred Knobloch.

Georgia Southern in 1980 with a degree in journalism.

But I had been playing in bands and writing songs my whole time through college. When I got out of college, I continued to write and play in bands. Even after I got married in 1984, that’s how I made my living ... so a long, long time!

Q: What made you want to become a songwriter?

Answer: Well, I was the last child in the family and my older brother and my older sisters, they had wonderful album collections. So when they all moved out, got married and went to school ... I was kind of left with all their great records. I started exploring that, and my brother gave me his old guitar some time when I was in high school down in Savannah.

I guess it’s just one of those things that dawns on you at some point that it isn’t necessarily the artist that you’re listening to (who) wrote the song ... and I became a big fan of singer-songwriters like Jimmy Webb and Bob Dylan and even some of the soul singers like Otis Redding who wrote his own material.

Q: What do you play to perform? What do you hope the audience will take away from the experience?

A: Well, I live in Nashville, so I don’t really say I’m a guitar player, because, goodness knows they’ve got the best up here. But I’m a guitar player by trade, and so I’ll be playing guitar and singing the songs that I wrote, as will my buddy, Fred Knobloch, who was

one of the first people I met when we came to Nashville ... so it will be fun. It’s not really just about the songs, it’s a lot about the stories behind the songs.

I hope what (the audience) will get from it is that they’ll enjoy themselves, No. 1.

Also, I think it’s a neat thing for people to realize that songs don’t necessarily come from the artists (who) are singing them.

Q: Your song, “The Dance,” won Song of the Year when it came out. What was that like, and what does that song mean to you personally?

A: The song’s got a bit of an interesting history.

When I first moved here, I went into a club at Douglas Corner here in town and I met another young man

who had just moved here from Oklahoma, and his name was Garth Brooks.

We were new to town, nobody knew us and nobody cared what we had to say about anything. But I played the song not long after that and he said, “If I ever get a record deal, pal, I’d sure love to do that song.”

Three years went by and during that time, that song was turned down by everyone. Well, Garth finally got signed to Capitol Records, and he called and the song was available. So it means the world to me, because it was somebody who truly believed in it.

It’s taken me around the world, but I never knew at the time that the best thing that ever happened to that

song is it got turned down.

Q: What has it meant to you overall to be inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame?

I can’t even describe that evening. Getting that call, I knew I was on the ballot and I knew who I was up against. You just never expect to win.

And I know who’s in that hall. I know who’s gone before me. The only word I can truly think of is humbling.

It was just one of those memories you don’t ever expect to experience, and then when you do, you just do your best to take it all in. It didn’t escape me, I assure you. It was a wonderful evening. I’ll never forget it, I can assure you.

Flowery Branch Auction & Antiques

Antiques and Collectibles Show: Join us for these dates: Friday July 5th Saturday July 6th Sunday July 7th

: 9 AM to 5 PM : 9 AM to 5 PM : 10 AM to 4 PM

Breakfast & Lunch served by Angie’s Cafe 5540 Atlanta Highway Flowery Branch, GA 30542

770-967-9080 flowerybranchantiques.com

goo music

gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, July 4, 2013

PAGE

7

Concert raffle to benefit Smithgall humane society

go o music

Pickin’ on the Porch fundraiser in Sautee From staff reports

A special raffle on Friday, July 5, during the Music Pickin’ on the Porch at InsideOut Sautee will benefit the Charles Smithgall Humane Society and Animal Shelter.

Tickets are a $1 donation or purchase six tickets for $5. Buy tickets at InsideOut Sautee or the Smithgall Humane Society.

Winners do not need to be present to win.

For Get Out

John Coté, left, and Ed Howe are the duo Perpetual e-Motion, which will play from 6-8 p.m.

Sunday, at Inman Perk Coffee.

Perpetual e-Motion aims to move dancers Sunday From staff reports Perpetual e-Motion, a Maine-based duo playing a cross of traditional, jazz and world music, will be in concert from 6-8 p.m. Sunday, July 7, at Inman Perk Coffee on the downtown Gainesville square.

The duo’s traditional tunes entail bluegrass, Celtic and string band, making it one of the top contra dance bands in

Concert This week

Fifth annual Classic City American Music Festival, Athens. 4 p.m. July 4. The Melting Point, 295 E. Dougherty St., Athens. $20-$25, children 12 and younger free.

706-254 -6909.

Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Alpharetta. 8 p.m. July 5. Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park, 2200 Encore Parkway, Alpharetta. $15-$45. 800-745-3000, vzwamp.com.

Maxwell, Atlanta. July 6. Chastain Park

the country regularly touring from coast to coast. Perpetual e-Motion’s music focuses more on traditional contra music in a Southern style versus the New England contra dance music.

The free concert at 102 Washington St. may have dancers yelling and screaming in delight.

For more information, call 770-654-5098 or 678-971-8091.

Amphitheatre, 4469 Stella Drive NW, Atlanta. $50-$120. Call 800-745-3000 for time, ticketmaster.com or livenation.com.

Bluebilly Grit, Dahlonega. 8:30 p.m. July 6. Crimson Moon Cafe, 24 N. Park St., Dahlonega. $14 in advance, $16 on day. thecrimsonmoon.com.

Crystal River, Flowery Branch. 6 p.m. July 7. New Beginning Baptist Church, 4403 Winder Highway, Flowery Branch. 770597-7742.

Checkered Past, Dahlonega. 7 p.m. July 7. Crimson Moon Cafe, 24 N. Park St., Dahlonega. $5 in advance, $7 on day. thecrimsonmoon.com.

Music Pickin’ on the Porch features local musicians gathering from 6-9 p.m. to entertain an audience with a wide variety of acoustic music. Visitors are encouraged to bring a chair and listen or bring an instrument and play in front of Inside Out Sautee, 2454 Ga. 17, in Sautee Nacoochee.

Food is free but donations are accepted for the humane society.

Yonah Mountain Vineyards and Elfmade Wooden Toys will stay open until 9 p.m. for the family-friendly event.

For more information, call 706-8780144 or visit www.insideoutsautee.com.

Musical rally for God, country From staff reports A God and Country Rally will be at 11 a.m. Sunday, July 7, at Flat Creek Baptist Church, 5504 Flat Creek Road, in Gainesville.

Headlining the free event will be Milton Martin Toyota co-owner Mike Martin, who is a featured speaker in the United States and around the world. He has done extensive training of pastors in the area of leadership principles and will bring a

message of hope and encouragement.

Deputy Sheriff Jonathan Jackson will sing Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless the U.S.A.” and the national anthem. The Hall County Sheriff’s Honor Guard will present the colors.

The choir and church congregation will sing more patriotic tunes and be accompanied by the award-winning brass quintet from the University of North Georgia in Gainesville.

For information, call 254-722-6471.

Hibachi Grill & Sushi Buffet Lunch til 3:30 Mon - Fri

49 6

Dinner after 3:30 Mon - Thurs

49 8

• Eat In • Take Out • Private Party Room Available

Open 7 days a week • Weekend prices vary

Over 300 Items Weekly

Prices subject to change without notice.

Hibachi & Sushi & Seafood

1500 Browns Bridge Rd., Suite 117 Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 287-9003

10% DISCOUNT WITH THIS COUPON (770) 287-9003

get out Thursday, July 4, 2013

8-9

PAGE

movies

arts

While it takes years to make a computer-animated feature, it is surprising

‘Despicable Me 2’ and ‘The Lone Ranger’

For Get Out

“The Good Wife” exhibit, Gainesville. Through Sept. 1. Simmons Visual Arts Center, Presidents Gallery, 500 Washington St. SE, Gainesville. Free. Call 770-534-6263 for times.

Brenau Family Ties exhibit, Gainesville. Through July 7. Simmons Visual Arts Center, Presidents Gallery, 500 Washington St. SE, Gainesville. Free. Call 770-534-6263 for times.

“Heaven to Earth” exhibit, Clayton. 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. July 6-30. Main Street Gallery, 51 N. Main St., Clayton. “Heaven to Earth,” paintings by Tommy Durham and sculptures by Mike Jones.

THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

WEEKEND PLANNER

Northeast Georgia’s entertainment guide

gainesvilletimes.com/getout

Universal Pictures

REVIEWS, 10-11

filmmakers failed to capitalize on the adventures of Gru and his three girls in the sequel “Despicable Me 2.” In this movie, Gru is a retired supervillan dealing with his adopted daughters, Margo, Edith and Agnes. The story follows predictable patterns as Gru and new spy Lucy develop a romantic subplot; the girls deal with growing up; and the minions offer the comedy. What is lacking is the original creativity and originality of the first film.

On the flip side, “The Lone Ranger” — bathed in controversy about stereotypes — comes out the better movie bet. Based on a radio program, the spirit and wit of Johnny Depp playing Tonto and Armie Hammer portraying the ranger is the right mix to overcome some movie flaws.

“Bowden: A Collector’s Legacy” exhibit, Gainesville. July 11 through Sept. 1. Brenau University Gallaries, 429 Academy St., Gainesville. Opening reception 5:30-7 p.m. July 11.

Free. 770-534-6263.

“The Music Man,” Gainesville. 7:30 p.m. July 10-13.

Gainesville High Warehouse, 830 Century Place, Gainesville. Adults $17, children, students and seniors $12, children 2 and younger are free.

“50 Plus Dancing Diners,” Gainesville. 5:30-9 p.m. July 9.

Lunas Restaurant, 200 Main St. SW, Gainesville. Every second Tuesday after. 770-531-0848.

Beulah Rucker Oliver Memorial Intersection dedication, Gainesville. 11 a.m. July 9. Beulah Rucker Museum, 2101 Athens Highway, Gainesville.

Gardening Class: Garden to Table, Cumming. 2-3:30 p.m. July 8. Sharon Forks Library, 2820 Old Atlanta Road, Cumming.

6:30-8 p.m. July 9. Cumming Library, 585 Dahlonega Road, Cumming. forsythpl.org.

“Headwaters Didja Hear,” Sautee. 8 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays. July 10-21. Historic Gym, Sautee Nacoochee Community Association, 283 Ga. 255 N, Sautee Nacoochee. $6-$21.

JULY 10:

For Get Out

LOOKING AHEAD

Perpetual e-Motion, Gainesville. 6-8 p.m. July 7. Inman Perk Coffee, 102 Washington St., Gainesville. Free`. 770-6545098 or 678-971-8091.

Checkered Past, Dahlonega. 7 p.m. July 7. Crimson Moon Cafe, 24 N. Park St., Dahlonega. $5 in advance, $7 on day. thecrimsonmoon.com.

Bluebilly Grit, Dahlonega. 8:30 p.m. July 6. Crimson Moon Cafe, 24 N. Park St., Dahlonega. $14 in advance, $16 on day. thecrimsonmoon.com.

First Saturday Hike, Gainesville. 10-11:30 a.m. First Saturday each month. Guided hike. $5 adults, $3 ages 2-12, younger than 2 and Elachee members free. Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. 770-535-1976. elachee.org.

MON: TUES: TUES: WED: JULY 11:

music

outdoors

Disney

family

For Get Out

PAGE

10

Thursday, July 4, 2013 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

go o movies

‘Despicable Me 2’ storyline fizzles ‘Despicable Me 2’

JEFF MARKER jeffmarker@rocketmail.com

Film Review Universal Pictures really pulled off something back in 2010 when “Despicable Me” earned more than half a billion dollars worldwide and worked its way into the home video hearts of America.

Universal had no lasting animation franchise at the time.

It failed to develop one with “Tale of Despereaux” in 2008, which should have been a good bet. It was based on a popular children’s book and had all the right talent involved. That formula usually works.

Instead, “Despereaux” flopped and “Despicable Me,” an original property, came along two years later and became the new face of the studio.

Universal Pictures And now, all box-office forecasts predict “Despicable Characters Lucy, voiced by Kristen Wiig, right, and Gru, voiced by Steve Carell in a scene from “Despicable Me 2.”

Me 2” will dominate its main competition in its opening nothing to push the story along. weekend, “The Lone Ranger,” a become a hero in the first scene is meticulously and Margo (Miranda Cosgrove), Disney film starring one of the film, it is entirely expected Gru repeatedly storyboarded, the eldest daughter, has biggest movie stars on Earth. would battle a super villain in pitched and revised. Even discovered boys and The franchise Gru built is this sequel. after the basic story has been develops a crush on one boy Also predictable is Gru now an industry powerhouse. conceived, it sometimes takes in particular. This bothers would develop a love interest.

So what did Universal, a year to get the script just Gru enormously ... until that A spy named Lucy (Kristen producer Chris Meledandri, right. storyline just sort of falls apart.

Wiig) recruits Gru to work for and directors Pierre Coffin That is why it is so shocking Middle child Edith (Dana an international undercover and Chris Renaud do with the story in “Despicable Me Gaier) does almost nothing in agency, and the two of course the franchise now that it is a 2” is so weak. Rarely has an this film other than strike a few spark. bankable property? animated film contained so ninja poses.

The romantic subplot is the Not very much. many wasted setups and Agnes (Elsie Kate Fisher), best part of the film, mostly unnecessary scenes.

It takes years to make a the impossibly cute baby of because Lucy is such a quirky, The primary story is computer-animated feature. the family, desperately longs surprising character and supposed to be that Gru (Steve The process is so arduous to have a mother in her life, because Wiig’s voice work is Carell), retired from superand expensive that before which is very touching. She hilarious. villainy and coping with life as the project even reaches has most of the heartfelt lines Otherwise, though, the film a single dad to three adopted the animation phase, the and many of the funniest jokes. consists of subplots that never daughters, gets pulled back screenplay goes through This story thread does come to develop and scenes that do into action. Having already numerous drafts and each

Starring: Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Miranda Cosgrove, Dana Gaier, Elsie Kate Fisher, Benjamin Bratt Rated: PG for rude humor and mild action.

Runtime: 1 hour, 38 minutes Bottom line: Big laughs,

weak story

a resolution, but you can likely predict that ending already.

Even the villain (Benjamin Bratt) is mostly a non-factor.

That primary story is virtually forgotten for much of the film.

The minions get plenty of screen time, and they are just as funny the second time around, but their scenes are tangential to the story at best.

The movie spends time on other tangents, too, like Agnes’ birthday party. Remember the scene in “Parenthood” when the cowboy doesn’t show up for the birthday party, so Steve Martin has to dress up like Cowboy Gil so his son won’t be disappointed? “Despicable Me 2” rips off the idea, only it’s a princess character. It seems like an excuse to put Gru in a dress.

The film offers a lot of great gags, but not a single unexpected moment.

“Despicable Me 2” is a very funny movie, but it’s disappointing the filmmakers didn’t push the franchise in a direction that matches the creativity and unpredictability of the original film.

Jeff Marker is head of the Communication, Media & Journalism Department at the University of North Georgia. His reviews appear weekly in Get Out and on gainesvilletimes.com/ getout.

goo movies

gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, July 4, 2013

PAGE

11

Controversy brings mixed reviews

go o movies

JEFF MARKER jeffmarker@rocketmail.com

Film Review “The Lone Ranger” is shaping up to be quite a divisive movie.

The very notion of reviving Tonto, the quintessential pop culture personification of the noble savage stereotype, sparked debate when Disney first announced plans to make the film.

Because it is Disney, with its long track record of missing the mark with characters from outside Euro-American culture, many assumed the movie would be racist.

Besides, the character is what it is. If this Tonto resembles the character in the radio program or on the television series at all, it would seem anachronistic for 2013.

The way the film represents Tonto and American Indians in general, it turns out, is a bit more complicated. Just as polarizing, however, is the quality of the film itself. Early reviews range from raves to ravaging.

My own assessment is a mix of both. In some ways, “The Lone Ranger” is exactly the movie I have waited for all summer.

Somehow, the typical Hollywood blockbuster has evolved from exciting escapism to gloomy introspection. Action sequences are no longer sources of sight gags and story development. Action sequences have become excuses to destroy as much of New York City as possible, and to do it in loud, monotonous ways.

These trends are the product of superhero movies’ dominance over the box office, and both

Disney

Johnny Depp, left, portrays Tonto and Armie Hammer portrays The Lone Ranger, in the western, action film, “The Lone Ranger.”

‘The Lone Ranger’ Starring: Armie Hammer, Johnny Depp, William Fichtner, Tom Wilkinson, Helena Bonham Carter Rated: PG-13 for sequences of intense action and violence, and some suggestive material.

Runtime: 2 hours, 29 minutes Bottom line: Flawed but enormously fun

Marvel and DC are equally to blame. They seem to have forgotten summer movies are supposed to be fun.

“The Lone Ranger,” an old property with little brand recognition among young viewers, goes against the grain. Rather than updating the franchise to make it fit in among the superheroes, director Gore Verbinski, best known for the “Pirates of the Caribbean”

franchise, proudly sticks to the old formulas.

The movie dares to mix wit and dynamics into its action sequences. It is equal parts comedy, adventure and Western movie tropes.

Verbinski and company set up simple scenarios and play them out, milking them for sight gags and twists in ways that recall silent films, especially “The General.” Befitting a Western, most of the action takes place on a train. Characters battle each other and play cat and mouse atop rushing railroad cars. The movie pays tribute to many classic Westerns, giving nods to “Once Upon a Time in the West,” “The Wild Bunch,” “The Searchers,” and many others.

Much of the film was shot in Monument Valley and other instantly recognizable locations in Colorado, Utah, Texas and Arizona.

The standard Western themes are at work, too: revenge, outlaw

heroes, corruption, fathers and sons, etc.

Johnny Depp as Tonto and Armie Hammer as John Reid carry the film well. For all the controversy over casting Depp rather than a Native American actor, it’s hard to deny Depp’s mastery of physical comedy and outlandish characterization.

The problem is whether it’s appropriate to mix lighthearted humor with depictions of Indian massacres.

Ironically, by trying very hard to update the representations of Native Americans usually associated with the Lone Ranger, Verbinski and his crew have stirred up just as much controversy. The movie’s politics are complex to say the least.

They tackle the stereotype issue directly. Tonto is now a withered old man who works as a living statue in a museum display titled, “Noble Savage.” When a young boy wanders in wearing a Lone Ranger costume, Tonto

tells the real story of the ranger in flashbacks. Tonto transforms from subservient sidekick to narrator and protagonist.

Nor does the movie shy away from the history of violence against Native Americans. It graphically depicts the aftermath of an Indian massacre, an event that greatly shapes Tonto.

This revisionist Lone Ranger is, admittedly, a strange combination of elements, but it works.

I write this knowing I am committing to years of defending myself, but the movie’s adventurous spirit and wit overcome its flaws to make it the best blockbuster so far this summer.

Jeff Marker is head of the Communication, Media & Journalism Department at the University of North Georgia. His reviews appear weekly in Get Out and on gainesvilletimes.com/ getout.

PAGE

12

Thursday, July 4, 2013 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

SHOWTIMES

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

Hollywood Stadium Cinemas 770-539-9200 120 Green Hill Circle NW, Gainesville

Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs (PG) Thu. 10:00-10:00 Despicable Me 2 (PG) Thu.-Sun. 12:15-1:00-2:30-4:004:45-6:30-7:15-9:00-9:45 Fast & Furious 6 (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. 12:45-3:45-6:45-9:45 Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (PG-13) Thu. 10:00-10:00 The Heat (R) Thu.-Sun. 1:00-2:00-4:15-5:00-7:15-8:1510:00 The Lone Ranger (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. 12:30-2:00-3:45-5:157:00-8:30-9:30 Man of Steel (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. 12:30-3:30-6:45-9:30 Monsters University (G) Thu.-Sun. 12:30-1:15-3:00-4:005:30-7:00-8:00-10:00 Now You See Me (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. 1:45-4:30-7:15-10:00 This Is the End (R) Thu.-Sun. 1:30-4:15-6:45-10:00 White House Down (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. 12:45-1:30-4:005:00-7:00-8:15-9:30 World War Z (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. 12:45-3:45-6:45-10:00

Mall Of Georgia Stadium 20 IMAX & RPX 678-482-5858

3333 Buford Drive, Suite 3000, Buford

Despicable Me 2 (PG) Thu. 10:30-12:00-1:00-2:20-3:204:40-7:00-8:00-9:20 Fri.-Sun. 10:30-12:00-1:00-2:203:20-4:40-7:00-8:00-9:20-11:40-12:40 Despicable Me 2 3D (PG) Thu. 10:00-12:20-2:40-5:00-5:407:20-9:40-10:20 Fri.-Sun. 10:00-12:20-2:40-5:00-5:407:20-9:40-10:20-12:01 Epic (PG) Thu.-Sun. 11:45 Fast & Furious 6 (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. 2:15-7:15 The Heat (R) Thu. 11:15-1:55-2:25-4:35-5:05-7:15-7:459:55-10:25 Fri.-Sun. 11:15-1:55-2:25-4:35-5:05-7:157:45-9:55-10:25-12:35 The Internship (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. 11:25-2:10-4:50-7:3510:15 Kevin Hart: Let Me Explain (R) Thu. 10:15-12:10-2:05-4:005:55-7:50-9:45 Fri.-Sat. 10:15-12:10-2:05-4:00-5:557:50-9:45-11:40 Sun. 10:15-12:10-2:05-4:00-5:55-7:509:45 The Lone Ranger (PG-13) Thu. 10:00-10:30-12:40-1:101:40-3:50-4:20-4:50-7:00-7:30-8:00-10:10-10:40 Fri.-Sat. 10:00-10:30-12:40-1:10-1:40-3:50-4:20-4:50-7:00-7:308:00-10:10-10:40-11:10 Sun. 10:00-12:40-1:10-1:403:50-4:20-4:50-7:00-7:30-8:00-10:10-10:40-11:10 Man of Steel (PG-13) Thu. 10:30-2:00-5:30-9:00 Fri.-Sat. 10:30-2:00-5:30-9:00-12:10 Sun. 2:00-5:30-9:00-12:10 Man of Steel: An IMAX 3D Experience (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. 12:00-3:30-7:00-10:30 Monsters University (G) Thu.-Sun. 11:00-1:30-4:00-7:3010:00 Monsters University 3D (G) Thu. 11:30-2:00-4:30-7:00-9:30

go o movies

Fri.-Sun. 11:30-2:00-4:30-7:00-9:30-12:01 Now You See Me (PG-13) Thu. 11:05-1:45-4:40-7:20-10:00 Fri.-Sun. 11:05-1:45-4:40-7:20-10:00-12:40 The Purge (R) Thu. 10:05-12:10-5:10-10:10 Fri.-Sun. 10:05-12:10-5:10-10:10-12:20 This Is the End (R) Thu.-Sat. 10:55-2:05-5:00-7:40-10:40 Sun. 2:05-5:00-7:40-10:40 White House Down (PG-13) Thu. 10:20-10:50-1:15-1:454:10-4:40-7:05-7:35-10:00-10:30 Fri.-Sat. 10:20-10:501:15-1:45-4:10-4:40-7:05-7:35-10:00-10:30-12:35 Sun. 10:20-1:15-1:45-4:10-4:40-7:05-7:35-10:00-10:30-12:35 World War Z (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. 12:00-2:40-5:20-8:00-10:40 World War Z 3D (PG-13) Thu. 11:00-1:40-4:20-7:05-9:45 Fri.-Sun. 11:00-1:40-4:20-7:05-9:45-12:25

Movies 400 678-513-4400

415 Atlanta Road, Cumming

Despicable Me 2 (PG) Thu.-Sun. (12:15-2:45-5:15) 7:45 Despicable Me 2 3D (PG) Thu.-Sun. (1:10-3:40) 6:30-9:00 The Heat (R) Thu.-Sun. (1:10-4:10) 7:10-10:15 The Lone Ranger (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. (12:00-3:20) 6:40-10:00 Man of Steel (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. (12:15-3:30) 6:45-10:00 Monsters University (G) Thu.-Sun. (12:10-2:50-5:30) 8:10 Monsters University 3D (G) Thu.-Sun. (12:45-3:25) 6:058:45 Now You See Me (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. (1:15-4:05) 7:20-10:10 Rio (G) Thu. (10:00) This Is the End (R) Thu.-Sun. (12:45-3:25) 7:30-10:10 White House Down (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. (12:30-3:45) 7:0010:05 World War Z (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. (1:00-4:00) 7:00-10:00 World War Z 3D (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. (12:30-3:30) 6:30-9:30

Habersham Hills Cinemas 6 706-776-7469 2115 Cody Road, Mount Airy

Despicable Me 2 (PG) Thu.-Sun. 1:15-3:30-6:30-8:45 The Heat (R) Thu.-Sun. 1:30-4:15-7:00-9:30 The Lone Ranger (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. 1:00-4:00-7:00-10:00 Monsters University (G) Thu.-Sun. 12:45-4:00-6:30-9:00 White House Down (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. 1:00-4:05-7:00-9:50 World War Z (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. 1:30-4:30-7:05-9:35

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

Despicable Me 2 (PG) Thu.-Sun. 12:00-2:20-4:25-4:407:00-7:00-9:50-10:10 Dr. Seuss’ the Lorax (PG) Thu. 10:00-10:00 Fast & Furious 6 (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. 1:30 Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (PG-13) Thu. 10:00-10:00 The Heat (R) Thu.-Sun. 1:30-4:15-7:00-10:00 The Lone Ranger (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. 12:45-1:50-4:00-5:007:10-8:10-9:20 Man of Steel (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. 12:55-4:00-7:00-9:20 Monsters University (G) Thu.-Sun. 1:30-4:05-7:15-9:45 Now You See Me (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. 1:05-4:10-7:10 White House Down (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. 1:00-4:00-7:00-9:40 World War Z (PG-13) Thu.-Sun. 1:15-4:10-7:10-9:50

‘Monsters’ scares up another $45.6M “The Heat” is hot, but it was “Monsters University” who came out on top at the weekend box office.

The Disney-Pixar animated prequel earned $45.6 million in first place in its second weekend, while the Fox action-comedy starring Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy as mismatched detectives debuted in second place with $39.1 million.

“World War Z,” the Paramount zombie thriller featuring Brad Pitt, earned $29.7 million in third place in its second weekend.

Sony’s “White House Down,” which features Channing Tatum as a wannabe Secret Service agent and Jamie Foxx as the president of the United States of America, launched in fourth place with $24.8 million.

The top 20 movies at U.S. and Canadian theaters Friday through Sunday, followed by distribution studio, gross, number of theater locations, average receipts per location, total gross and number of weeks in release, as compiled Monday by Hollywood.com, are: 1. “Monsters University,” Disney, $45,607,745, 4,004 locations, $11,391 average, $170,433,193, two weeks.

2. “The Heat,” Fox, $39,115,043, 3,181 locations, $12,296 average, $39,115,043, one week.

3. “World War Z,” Paramount, $29,774,625, 3,607 locations, $8,255 average, $123,696,919, two weeks.

4. “White House Down,” Sony, $24,852,258, 3,222 locations, $7,713 average, $24,852,258, one week.

5. “Man of Steel,” Warner Bros., $20,737,490, 4,131 locations, $5,020 average, $248,577,596, three weeks.

6. “This Is the End,” Sony, $8,700,827, 2,710 locations, $3,211 average, $74,681,836, three weeks.

7. “Now You See Me,” Lionsgate, $5,612,267, 2,564 locations, $2,189 average, $104,792,858, five weeks.

8. “Fast & Furious 6,” Universal, $2,448,995, 1,550 locations, $1,580 average, $233,351,765, six weeks.

9. “Star Trek: Into Darkness,” Paramount, $2,100,458, 1,035 locations, $2,029 average, $220,561,325, seven weeks.

10. “The Internship,” Fox, $1,431,710, 1,008 locations, $1,420 average, $41,711,796, four weeks.

Associated Press

Hibachi Grill & Sushi Buffet Lunch til 3:30 Mon - Fri

649

Dinner after 3:30 Mon - Thurs

849

• Eat In • Take Out • Private Party Room Available

Open 7 days a week • Weekend prices vary

Over 300 Items Weekly

Prices subject to change without notice.

Hibachi & Sushi & Seafood

1500 Browns Bridge Rd., Suite 117 Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 287-9003

10% DISCOUNT WITH THIS COUPON (770) 287-9003

goo music

gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, July 4, 2013

Bluegrass, rock blend at Crimson Moon Cafe Bluebilly Grit, Checkered Past to hit stage From staff reports Bluegrass music and classic rock tunes will reverberate from inside The Crimson Moon Cafe in Dahlonega this weekend.

Tuning up first will be Bluebilly Grit, winner of 2012 Tellurides Bluegrass Festival. The band will perform at 8:30 p.m.

Saturday, July 6, at the cafe at 24 N. Park St. in Dahlonega. Tickets are $14 in advance and $16 day of the show.

From the side porch of an old gristmill to the main stage of The Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Bluebilly Grit’s modern style blends bluegrass and Americana music. The band’s sound appeals to the newer generation of the grass-roots movement, while simultaneously accepted by those who love the more traditional sound. The band displays

Bluebilly Grit concert When: 8:30 p.m. Saturday, July 6 Cost: $14 in advance, $16 day of show Where: Crimson Moon Cafe, 24 N. Park St., Dahlonega

Checkered Past concert When: 7 p.m. Sunday, July 7 Cost: $5 in advance, $7 day of show Where: Crimson Moon Cafe, 24 N. Park St., Dahlonega

a three-part harmony, traditional instrumentation and soulful lead vocals from its female singer.

Wrapping up the weekend will be Checkered Past at 7 p.m.

Sunday, July 7, at the cafe.

Tickets are $5 in advance and $7 Sunday.

Familiar faces will play classic rock and country from the 1960s and ’70s as the band sports members of four other bands. Members include

Greybeards’ Robert Jones on tenor vocals, guitar, mandolin, bass and dobro; Dark Horses’ Mike Stone on lead guitar; and Mad Romances’ Rick Harris on vocals, piano, trumpet and lap steel guitar.

For this debut concert, Kurt Tompkins of “Frankly Scarlett” will join them on percussion.

For more information, call 706-8643982 or visit www. thecrimsonmooncafe.com.

Dine, dance with 50-and-older crowd Interested individuals may meet Tuesday at Lunas From staff reports As Northeast Georgia’s active senior population grows, a local restaurant has agreed to provide a venue for the 50-plus age bracket to meet, mingle, dine and dance to a DJ or band.

“50 plus dancing diners” is open to residents 50 years old and older,

who may meet at Lunas Restaurant in downtown Gainesville and partake of the food and dance floor. Lunas will provide a special $10 menu from 5:30-6:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month followed by dancing from 7-9 p.m. in the atrium. A DJ or band play diners favorite music.

“50 plus dancing diners” will begin Tuesday, July 9, at Hunt Tower, 200 Main St. SW, Gainesville. Reservations are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome.

Call 770-531-0848 or visit www.lunas. com information.

Etc. events This week

PAGE

13

2101 Athens Highway, Gainesville. To dedicate the members of the museum board, state Sen. Butch Miller and descendants of Oliver will be giving brief histories of Oliver, an African-American educator.

go o music

“Save a Life While Shopping,” Buford and Kennesaw. Noon to 5 p.m. July 4. Mall of Georgia, 3333 Buford Drive, Buford. July 4-6. Town Center at Cobb, 400 Barrett Parkway, Kennesaw. redcrossblood.org.

Book Signing “The Mary Lomax Ballad Book,” Cornelia. 1-3 p.m. July 6. Books With A’Peal, North Main St., Cornelia.

706-778-4563.

Square Dance, Gainesville. 8-10 p.m.

July 6. First Presbyterian Church, 800 S. Enota Drive, Gainesville. $6. 678956-0287, acoley@mindspring.com or lakeshoresquares.com.

God and Country Rally, Gainesville. 11 a.m. July 7. Flat Creek Baptist Church, 5504 Flat Creek Road, Gainesville. Free.

Food Drive, Flowery Branch. July 8-26.

5989 Spout Springs Road, Flowery Branch. Call 770-967-6737 for time, goddardschool.com.

Beulah Rucker Oliver Memorial Intersection dedication, Gainesville. 11 a.m. July 9. Beulah Rucker Museum,

Upcoming

Square Dance Sock Hop, Gainesville.

8-10 p.m. July 20. First Presbyterian Church, 800 S. Enota Drive, Gainesville. $6. 678-956-0287, acoley@mindspring. com or lakeshoresquares.com.

Fourth Tuesday at Picnic Cafe, Dahlonega.

July 23. Picnic Cafe, 30 Public Square, Dahlonega. Meet Holly supporters, actors and board members, and participate in the success of the Holly by enjoying your lunch, beverage or dessert. Call 706-864-1095 for prices and time.

Mixer and Speed Dating, Gainesville.

7:30-9:30 p.m. July 23. 131 Bradford St. NW, Gainesville. $20. Requires reservation and will have a maximum of 30 attendees. 770-539-4049, cocktailsconversations.wordpress.com.

THE TOP of gainesville

Adult Entertainment Club

Serving North Georgia since 1992 Hospital Drive off Atlanta Hwy. 13 Monday - Saturday 4pm-1am Must be 21 with picture I.D.

770-536-3759

CMYK PAGE

14

Thursday, July 4, 2013 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

go o the arts

Area actors portray North Georgia natives on stage From staff reports “Headwaters: Didja Hear?” a community play by and about the people from Northeast Georgia, is entering its seventh and final year in the Sautee Nacoochee Center’s historic gymnasium.

The cast of community members gathers one last time to relate rich stories at 8 p.m.

Wednesday through Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays, July 10-21.

Tickets are $6 to $21. Seating is first-come, first-served.

The performance is two hours and includes an intermission. Soft drinks and water are for sale in the box office.

“Headwaters: Didja Hear?” is crafted from stories gathered in White, Habersham, Rabun, Stephens, Banks, Lumpkin, Union and Hall counties, and performed by people from those counties.

The marvelously entertaining play was a hit with audiences during its premiere production. The script, songs, movements and puppetry have been revised and refined for the final episode in the “Headwaters” series, which will conclude a seven-year adventure of portraying life in a place that’s still a little bit wild.

Parking is available on the Sautee Nacoochee Center campus at 283 Ga. 255 N. Reserve the asphalt parking lot adjacent to the school house building for people with mobility impairments. Parking on grass and gravel is available next to the softball field, and in front of the Cannery Building.

Theater events This week

“Camp Aurora Magic Show,” Lawrenceville. 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. July 10. Aurora Theatre, 128 E. Pike St., Lawrenceville. $7.

678-226-6222, auroratheatre. com.

Open auditions for “Holly and the Heartbreakers,” Dahlonega.

7-10 p.m. July 10. Historic

For Get Out

Area actors portray native Northeast Georgians in the play “Headwaters: Didja Hear?” The play runs from July 10-21 Holly Theater, 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega. 706-864-3759.

“The Music Man,” Gainesville.

7:30 p.m. July 10-13. Gainesville High Warehouse, 830 Century Place, Gainesville. Adults $17, children, students and seniors $12, children 2 and younger are free.

“Headwaters Didja Hear,” Sautee.

8 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays.

July 10-21. Historic Gym,

Sautee Nacoochee Community Association, 283 Ga. 255 N, Sautee Nacoochee. $6-$21.

Upcoming

“Every Tongue Confess,”Atlanta.

8 p.m. Wednesdays to Fridays, 3 and 8:30 p.m. Saturdays, 5 p.m.

Sundays. July 12 through Aug. 25. Horizon Theatre, 1083 Austin Ave., Atlanta. $20-$50. 404-5847450, boxoffice@horizontheatre. com.

“Willie Wonka & the Chocolate Factory,” Jefferson. July 19-21, 26-28. Jefferson Community Theatre, 28 College St., Jefferson. Visit mainstreet jefferson.com for ticket prices.

“Seven Brides for Seven Brothers,” Dahlonega. 8 p.m.

Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m.

Sundays. July 19-21, 26-28 and Aug. 2-4. Historic Holly Theater, 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega.

Adults $18, children and

students $12. www.hollytheater. com.

Interns for Junior Theater Camp, Dahlonega. 1-4 p.m. July 2225. Historic Holly Theater, 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega. Intern applications are being accepted for the Junior Theatre Camp.

Interns should be ages 13 and older and should love to work with younger kids. 706-2064516, jr.camp@hollytheater.com.

gainesvilletimes.com/getout •

Thursday, July 4, 2013

Arts events This Week

“The Good Wife” exhibit, Gainesville.

Through Sept. 1. Simmons Visual Arts Center, Presidents Gallery, 500 Washington St. SE, Gainesville. Free.

Call 770-534-6263 for times.

Brenau Family Ties exhibit, Gainesville. Through July 7. Simmons Visual Arts Center, Presidents Gallery, 500 Washington St. SE, Gainesville.

Free. Call 770-534-6263 for times.

Art and Antique Festival, Commerce.

9 a.m. to 6 p.m. First Saturdays

Outdoors events This week

“5K Run for Glory,” Demorest. 6:30 a.m. July 4. Demorest Springs Park, Demorest. Call 706-7784202 for more information.

Firecracker 5K/10K, Dahlonega. 7:30 a.m. July 4. Dahlonega Chamber of Commerce, 13 S. Park St., Dahlonega. Registration at 6:30 a.m. dahlonega.org.

Gardening Class: Garden to Table, Cumming. 2-3:30 p.m. July 8. Sharon Forks

and Sundays. Commerce Crossing, Pottery Factory Drive, Commerce.

706-335-6352.

Arts Center, 514 Green St. NE, Gainesville. Free. 770-536-2575. vizualmethods.com.

Upcoming

Ongoing

“Bowden: A Collector’s Legacy” exhibit, Gainesville. July 11 through Sept. 1. Brenau University Gallaries, 429 Academy St., Gainesville.

Opening reception 5:30-7 p.m. July 11. Featuring Joseph Albers, Alex Katz, Michael Graves, John Cage and Marisol. Free. 770-534-6263.

65th annual Members’ exhibition, Gainesville. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Oct. 11 through Dec. 1. Quinlan Visual

Library, 2820 Old Atlanta Road, Cumming. 6:30-8 p.m. July 9. Cumming Library, 585 Dahlonega Road, Cumming. Tips for harvesting homegrown produce at the peak of flavor and preparing it for a fresh feast. forsythpl.org.

Elachee’s Trail Crew Work Day, Gainesville. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. First Saturday each month. Free. Bring water, lunch, gloves and rain gear. Tools, training and refreshments provided.

Call to preregister. Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville, 770-535-1976.

First Saturday Hike,

“Imaginary Worlds: Plants Larger Than Life,” exhibit, Atlanta. May through October. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tuesday-Sunday, November through March; 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. April through October. Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. $18.95 adults, $12.95 children 3-12, free to children 3 and younger and to Garden members. 404-876-5859, atlantabotanicalgarden.org.

Gainesville. 10-11:30 a.m.

First Saturday each month.

Guided hike. $5 adults, $3 ages 2-12, younger than 2 and Elachee members free.

Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. 770535-1976. elachee.org.

Upcoming

Moonlight paddle, Gainesville. 7:30 p.m.

July 19, Aug. 16, Sept.

20 and Oct. 25. Lake Lanier Olympic Venue, 3105 Clarks Bridge Road, Gainesville. Trained instructor will lead group paddle. $15. 770-287-

7888, lckc.org.

Summer Sprints Regatta, Gainesville. 8 a.m. July 20. Lake Lanier Olympic Venue, 3105 Clarks Bridge Road, Gainesville.

Registration deadline noon July 18. $25. lckc.org.

Gardening Class: Preserve the Harvest, Cumming.

2-3:30 p.m. July 22.

Sharon Forks Library, 2820 Old Atlanta Road, Cumming. 6:30-8 p.m.

July 23. Hampton Park Library, 5345 Settingdown Road, Cumming. Explore canning, freezing and drying methods for making your summer bounty last. forsythpl.org.

get out

PAGE

15

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

PAGE

16

get out

• gainesvilletimes.com/getout

Thursday, July 4, 2013