Get Out May 3 2012

Summer camp season is here! Area camps guide, page 9

Pirouette at sunset Gainesville Ballet holds Dancing at Dusk.

Thursday May 3, 2012

gainesvilletimes.com /getout

get out Northeast Georgia’s entertainment guide

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Thursday, May 3, 2012 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

on the web www.switchplanet.com

While making new friends, you can join or create groups and most importantly trade your DVDs, CDs, video games and books for free. Cool and active marketplace where you can “use more ... and waste less!”

music

Head up to the Historic Holly Theater for a night with a Johnny Cash tribute band, complete with vintage instruments.

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movies

The summer movie season is upon us. First up, Marvel Studios finally unleashes its multi-verse in all its cinematic glory in “The Avengers.”

The Associated Press PAGE 20

family

Check out the cars and salute veterans this weekend at the Gillsville Folk Pottery Festival.

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outdoors

on the cover

The season wraps up for Gainesville Ballet with an evening of “Alice and Wonderland” and jazzy tunes for the annual “Dancing at Dusk.”

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Lula Railroad Days is finally here. Time for parades, tractors, corndogs and music.

Also, Camp Merrill is opening its doors for an afternoon with the U.S. Army Rangers.

PAGE 19 ONLINE Find more events online at www.gainesvilletimes.com/getout.

Thursday, May 3, 2012

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Register by May 9. Drawing held May 11.

Register at one of the many participating downtown businesses for a chance to win one of three fabulous gift baskets!

Go to www.downtowngainesville.com or find us on FaceBook at Downtown Gainesville to see photos of the gift baskets!

For more information contact Main Street Gainesville at 770-297-1141

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Thursday, May 3, 2012 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

etc. events This week

Rail Road Days, Lula.

May 4-5. Downtown Lula.

Music, food and children’s events. Free to attend. 770869-1509.

Chestatee High School Cruise-In for a Cure Relay for Life Car Show, Gainesville.

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 5, Free to spectators. $20 minimum donation to CHS Relay for Life to enter a car. Awards, music, and food. Chestatee High School, 3005 Sardis Road, Gainesville. 770-532-1162, dana.sears@hallco.org.

Dahlonega Farmers Market, Dahlonega. 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays. May 5 through Oct 27. West Main & Waters Street in downtown Dahlonega.

Shop the Dahlonega Farmers Market for the finest quality foods and more! Buy direct from the local farmers and get great prices for the best produce in the region. To become a vendor contact Rebecca Shirley at 706-482-2707 or rebeccashirley@ dahlonegadda.org.

The Hotrod Cruiz Knight, Flowery Branch. 6-10 p.m. May 5. Johnson Touchdown Club, South Hall Middle and Jr. Knights Football is sponsoring a Cruise-In to benefit each football program.

Open to all makes and models featuring hotrods, muscle cars, pickups, motorcycles and classics.

Robson Crossing in the Ace Hardware parking lot across from Blackshear Place Baptist Church. $10 entry fee per car. Spectators free. cooperscott1@bellsouth. net Fashion show and luncheon, Buford. 11 a.m.

May 5. Fashions from Belk.

Presented by GFWC/ GAFWC Buford Lanier Woman’s Club. Silent auction and raffle to benefit local charities. Buford Presbyterian Church, 1242

If it’s free...

IT’S FOR ME! Highlighting free activities around the region Elachee’s Trail Crew Work Day. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 5. Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. Bring water, lunch, gloves and rain gear. Tools, training, and afternoon refreshments provided.

Under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. 770-535-1976. www. elachee.org.

Friday Night Flicks, Cornelia. 8 p.m.

May 4. “Smurfs.” Cornelia City Park.

Free. 706-754-2220.

Art in the Garden, Dawsonville. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 5-6. Gardenthemed art festival with jewelry, pottery, live music and kid’s activities. Dawson County

Art Council Bowen Center, 344 Ga. 9 N, Dawsonville. 706-216-2787, www. dawsonarts.org/festival.htm.

Grant Searcey Art Show, Daholonega. 7 p.m. May 9. Featuring Musical Guest Erick Jones of American Anodyne.

Historic Holly Theater, 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega. 706-864-3759, www. hollytheater.com.

ISI Cycling, Gainesville. 7:30 a.m.

Saturdays; 7:30 a.m. Sundays, Corinth Baptist Church, Thompson Bridge Road; Tuesdays, 6 p.m. Hopewell Church Road; Thursdays 6 p.m.

Dewberry Baptist Church, Clarks Bridge Road. www.isicycling. com.

get out Northeast Georgia’s entertainment guide

If you would like your event listed in Get Out, here’s what we need to know: n The name of the event, or a short description n The time and date of the event n The location, street address or a short description of the location n Admission and contact information

Email your information to getout@gainesvilletimes.com.

The deadline to have your event listed in Get Out is the FRIDAY before the next publication.

Buford Highway, Sugar Hill. $25. 770-614-3498, 770831-2545.

Alpacas Shearing Festival, Cumming. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

May 5-6. Thunder River Suri Alpacas, 7830 Thunder River Way, Cumming.

717-994-4055, www. thunderriveralpacas.com Gardens on Green classes, Gainesville. 1 p.m. May 8 and each following Tuesday through May 22. May 8 topic: Herbs with Diane Korzeniewski. Adult classes sponsored by Hall County Master Gardeners and Hall County School System. As weather permits, classes will meet in the gardens, 711 Green St., Gainesville.

Otherwise, a conference room inside. Free. Register by email, williamllovett@ bellsouth.net.

“Frontier Medicine,” Gainesville. May 8. Forum with Jack Butterworth.

Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., Gainesville. 770-297-5900, www.negahc.org.

GFWC/GaFWC Buford Lanier Woman’s Club monthly

meeting, Buford. 9:30 a.m. May 9. Sugar Hill Community Center, 1166 Church St., Sugar Hill. 770614-3498, 770-831-2545.

Upcoming

Elachee’s annual “Flights of Fancy” Benefit Auction, Gainesville. 6 to 9 p.m. May 11. Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. Dinner, wine, music, silent auction of garden items, birdhouses, yard art created by local artists. Proceeds benefit Elachee’s education programs. 770-535-1976. www.elachee.org.

Heart Screens for Teens comes to Lakeview, Gainesville. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 12. Lakeview Academy’s Walters Athletic Center, 796 Lakeview Drive, Gainesville. Ultrascan Inc. in partnership with the Seth Vining Youth Foundation will offer ultrasound screening. For ages 11-18. Each student will need to bring a consent form signed by a parent. $65. 770-654-5431 or

sharonclarke1@bellsouth. net.

Rabies and Microchip Clinic, Lula. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 12. Jaemor Farms, Ga. 365. Pet must be 3 months old to get a shot. Please bring your pet on a leash or in a carrier.

Cash or checks accepted. $10 rabies, $20 microchip, $25 for both. Hall County Animal Shelter, 678-4501587.

Ongoing

Farmers Market, Suwanee.

May 1, Town Center Park. 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Aug. 7; 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays through Oct. 6 with the exception of Sept.

15. 770-945-8996, www. suwanee.com.

Legacy Link Living Well Workshop, Gainesville.

1:30 to 4 p.m. Each Wednesday for four weeks.

A chronic disease selfmanagement program from Stanford University.

For anyone suffering any chronic condition or their caretakers. Free.

Gainesville-Hall County

If you would like to place an ad, call Betty Thompson at 770-532-1234 or email bthompson@gainesvilletimes.com Community Service Center, 430 Prior St., Gainesville.

770-538-2650, lshoward@ legacylink.com.

Spout Springs Farmers Market, Flowery Branch. 4-7 p.m. every Thursday until the end of October. Spout Spring Library parking lot.

Fresh and local produce and crafts. The market will run Free to attend.

SSLFarmersmarket@gmail. com Community garden plots, Clarkesville. Community plot still available. Tools, water, fertilizer, mulch and some seeds provided for 10-by-10 plots. Located on the Clarkesville Greenway.

706-754-5290, www. soque.org.

Friendship Woman’s Club, Flowery Branch.

Meets every fourth Thursday. Flowery Branch Depot, Flowery

Branch. 404-394-9865 or SallyWeatherbee8@aol. com.

East Georgia Genealogy Society, Winder. 7 p.m. every second Tuesday of the month. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 36 Sims Road, Winder. www.eastgageneology. com.

American Business Women’s Association, Gainesville. 6 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of each month, Ryan’s Family Steakhouse, 2415 Browns Bridge Road, Gainesville. 770-967-3352.

Toastmasters, Gainesville.

Improve your public speaking skills. 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. Mondays.

Jacobs Building Room 208, Brenau University, 340 Green St., Gainesville.

Free. 678-469-2777. gainesvilletoastmasters@ yahoo.com.

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gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, May 3, 2012

Sunset sissonne

BY BRANDEE A. THOMAS

If you love the indoor performances by the Gainesville Ballet dancers, then you’re sure to be blown away by their outdoor production, “Dancing at Dusk.”

“It’s our end-of-theyear performance that we love to do,” said Tanya Glosson, past president of the nonprofit’s board of directors. “It’s light and fun.”

The production is scheduled for Friday at the Brenau University Amphitheater, 810 Brenau Lane in Gainesville. Gates will open at 6 p.m. and the show begins at 6:30.

Admission is $15 for adults and $5 for students.

Tickets will be on sale at the gate.

Attendees are encouraged to bring a picnic dinner, but dessert will be provided.

The show will feature the group’s repertory pieces, as well as a few excerpts from the company’s production of “Alice in Wonderland.”

“There will be some jazz pieces and some ballet pieces,” said Diane Callahan, founding artistic director. “Just like always.”

Live music will be provided by the Northwinds Brass Quintet with percussion, the West Hall High School Jazz Band and More Cowbell from Riverside Military Academy.

theater events This Week

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A twilight twist ends Ballet’s season bthomas@gainesvilletimes.com

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Spring surprise musical (TBA), Gainesville. 7:30 p.m.

May 3-4. $5. Gainesville Performing Arts Center. 830 Century Place, Gainesville. ghstheatre@bellsouth.net.

“The Fox on the Fairway,” Lawrenceville. May 3–27, 8 p.m. Wednesdays–Saturdays, 2:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. $20–$30. Aurora Theatre, 128 E. Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222, www.auroratheatre. com “The Importance of Being Earnest,” Gainesville. 7 p.m.

May 4 and 5; 2 p.m. May 6. Chestatee High School. $5. jeff.kelly@hallco.org.

Dancing at Dusk, Gainesville Ballet. May 4. Brenau University Amphitheater. 770-532-4241, www. gainesvilleballet.org.

Mountain Music Medicine Show, Dahlonega. 7:30 p.m.

May 5. $15. Historic Holly Theater, 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega. www.hollytheater.com.

Upcoming

TOM REED | The Times

Gainesville Ballet will put on its end of season production, “Dancing at Dusk,” on Friday night at Brenau University Amphitheater in Gainesville.

Although the outdoor performance is a community favorite, this year’s production will be bittersweet for some. It represents a final curtain call for graduating seniors Phalan Henry and Laura Vinson, who have been Callahan’s students for the last 12 years.

As if enjoying food, friends and the fine arts wasn’t enough, this year’s open-air performance will have an added dose of feel-good.

Proceeds from “Dancing

at Dusk” will be donated to The Cancer Center at Northeast Georgia Medical Center.

“We’re real excited about being able to help The Cancer Center, specifically the breast cancer patients,” Glosson said.

“Our girls are dancing for entertainment, which is fun, but this year they’re also dancing to benefit a good cause.”

Although Mother Nature is expected to allow the show to go on, Saturday will

‘Dancing at Dusk’ When: 6:30 p.m. Friday Where: Brenau University Amphitheater, 810 Brenau Lane, Gainesville How much: $15 adults, $5 students Contact: 770-532-4241

be the rain date if there is inclement weather.

‘Our girls are dancing for entertainment, which is fun, but this year they’re also dancing to benefit a good cause.’

Tanya Glosson, past president Gainesville Ballet Board of Directors

“Steel Magnolias,” Flowery Branch. May 11-12 and 1820. 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. $12 adults, $10 students. Presented by Fifth Row Center, 5509 Main St., Flowery Branch. 678357-7359, www.FifthRowCenter.com Gainesville School of Ballet performance. 2 and 5:30 p.m. May 13. Pearce Auditorium at Brenau University. Gainesville Ballet, $6. 770-532-4241. www. gainesvilleballet.org.

One Acts, Dahlonega. 8 p.m. May 17. Combination of one-act plays written by local playwrights. $10, $7 with a valid student ID. Historic Holly Theater, 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega. 706-864-3759, info@hollytheater.com “The Sound Of Music,” Dahlonega. May 18-20 and 25-27. 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays.

Historic Holly Theater, 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega. $15. www.hollytheater.com.

Ongoing

“Peter Pan,” Atlanta. 10 and 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays– Fridays, noon and 2 p.m. Saturdays, 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Sundays. Through May 27. Center for Puppetry Arts Mainstage Theater, 1014 Spring St. and 18th, Atlanta.

404-873-3391. www.puppet.org.

Tuesday Night (Mystery) Club, Alto. Murder mystery.

6 p.m. second Tuesday of each month, St. Thomas Anglican Church, 1636 Mud Creek Road, Alto. 706754-8165.

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Thursday, May 3, 2012 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

Art reaches for the sky

A painting by local artist Alice Paris is one of many on display at a new Brenau exhibit.

North Ga. outdoor sculpture exhibit adds new pieces From staff reports

For Get Out

Local artists featured in Brenau exhibit From staff reports A mix of styles and life experiences come together in a new art exhibit opening this month at Brenau University.

Paintings by Gainesville artists Ann Alexander, Rosemary Dodd, Joyce Hornor and Alice Paris will be on display starting May 9, kicking off the President’s Summer Arts Series.

The exhibit takes place at the Sellars Gallery at the Simmons Visual Arts Center, 200 Boulevard, Gainesville.

An opening reception will take place at 6 p.m. May 9 at the gallery, featuring a chance to meet the artists, and the show continues through May 31. Admission to the reception and the gallery is free and open to the public.

The four artists are all Gainesville residents and all bring a lifetime of experiences to their work.

Alexander, Hornor and Paris discovered their talent after their children left for college, while Dodd began drawing at age 3 and never stopped. Nevertheless, all four women have extensive training in both foundation and technique, and each brings a unique view of life, love and North Georgia living to the gallery’s walls.

arts events This Week

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Barefoot in the Park Arts Festival, Duluth. May 4-6.

Arts, food, and fun for all ages. Duluth Town Green.

678-677-0172, www. barefootinthepark.org.

Art in the Garden, Dawsonville. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 5-6. Gardenthemed art festival with jewelry, pottery, live music. Dawson County Art Council Bowen Center, 344 Highway 9 N, Dawsonville.

Free to attend. 706-216-

2787, www.dawsonarts. org/festival.htm.

Folk Pottery Festival, Gillsville. May 5. 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. pottery display and sale; 11 a.m. pottery turners demonstrations; noon presentation to honor local veterans. Gillsville City Park, 7864 County Line Road. 770-654-6707, dcrylee@wlndstream.net.

Grant Searcey Art Show, Daholonega. 7 p.m. May 9.

Featuring Musical Guest Erick Jones of American Anodyne. Free. Holly Theater, 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega. 706-864-3759.

Several new pieces of art have been installed around North Georgia College & State University’s campus as the third annual North Georgia Outdoor Sculpture Exhibition begins its yearlong run.

The show, on display through March 2013, aims to make visual arts more accessible to the community. It features the work of Appalachian artists.

This year, a couple of the pieces were installed on the outer edges of the campus at the new Chestatee Building and the Downtown Office Building on West Main Street to increase visibility.

“The sculpture show, which is in its third year now, provides a chance to highlight the work of contemporary Appalachian artists,” said Dr. Jon Mehlferber, assistant professor in the Department of Visual Arts.

“Most people think of Appalachian art as quilts and old-time music, which it is as well, but there are still artists living here and

making work today.”

Sculptors who live or were born in one of the 13 states from western New York to Mississippi submitted images of up to three sculptures for consideration. Seven new works by five artists were selected in a juried competition.

Six works from previous years remain part of the display.

Sculptors featured are Bob Doster of Lancaster, S.C.; Jenna Kriegel, of Athens; Joey Manson of Central, S.C.; Andi Steele of Wilmington, N.C.; Wesley Stewart of Statesboro; Tom Holmes of Greely, Pa.; Damon Lusky of Dawsonville; Deedee Morrison of Birmingham, Ala.; and Kyle Van Lusk of Brevard, N.C. Several students and other volunteers assisted the artists in the installation, Mehlferber said.

“It’s basically an outdoor classroom for the art department,” he said.

“It gives the chance for students to study actual works of art in person, and helping in the installation gives them

For Get Out

the chance to meet with the artists and ask them questions.”

North Georgia is partnering with the Dahlonega-Lumpkin Chamber of Commerce and the Dahlonega Convention & Visitors Bureau to promote the walking tour of the

sculptures.

Students from Gainesville State College pursuing the school’s geographic information science certificate will be mapping the coordinates of each piece to allow for an eventual program that provides information about each sculpture.

The exhibition is free and open to the public. A pamphlet outlining a selfguided walking tour will be available at the Information & Welcome Center, just inside North Georgia’s main entrance on South Chestatee Street, and at the Department of Visual Arts office in Hansford Hall.

Large groups should arrange visits in advance and guided tours may be available.

For more information, call the Department of Visual Arts at 706-8672832.

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gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, May 3, 2012

Heeere’s Johnny!

Band pays tribute to Man in Black From staff reports The Man in Black is back — or at least, it will seem that way.

Johnny Cash Now, a tribute band honoring the late country legend, will perform at 8 p.m. Friday, May 4, at the Holly Theater in Dahlonega.

“We’re going to take folks back to 1969 to see the Johnny Cash show just the way Johnny did it back then,” lead singer Gray Sartin said.

The show will include tributes to other artists who performed with Cash in that era, including Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley. Cash’s greatest hits will be performed as well.

“We wanted people to feel they were sitting in the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville during the Johnny Cash TV show, which aired on ABC from 1969 to 1971,” Sartin said. “We studied every detail from set design to costumes to instrumentation and created the videos posted on our website (www.johnnycashnow.com) and people have been giving us great feedback.”

And Sartin says the venue is perfect for the show.

Johnny Cash Tribute Show When: 8 p.m. May 4 Where: Holly Theater, 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega How much: Adults: $15 More info: www.hollytheater.com, 706864-3759

“The Holly is the kind of theater Cash would have played back in the early days, and we think people will come when they find out they can see a reenactment of a vintage Cash show. That’s why our slogan is Relive the Magic,” he said.

Chamber festival fills June From staff reports Nine world-class musicians will bring their talents to North Georgia College & State University for the inaugural North Georgia Chamber Music Festival, which features four programs of music over two weekends in June.

The four concerts will be held in the Gloria Shott Performance Hall, an intimate auditorium with 162 seats. The festival features two Friday night concerts and two Sunday

afternoon concerts.

Cecylia Arzewski, violinist and former concertmaster of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, is the event’s artistic director.

The festival begins June 15 with a performance by The Vega String Quartet, the quartet in residence at Emory University since 2006. The group features Domenic Salerni and Jessica Shuang Wu on violins, Yinzi Kong on viola and Guang Wang on cello.

The festival’s other three concerts will feature

the same four members of three premiere Atlanta orchestras, with different pieces: Violinists Kenn Wagner and Olga Shpitko, YangYoon Kim on viola and cellist Charae Krueger.

The four Atlanta musicians will be joined by pianist William Ransom for the final concert June 24.

Tickets are $30 for each concert, with combination tickets availalble for multiple concerts. They are on sale at www.northgeorgia.edu/ chambermusic..

concert calendar This Week

Johnny Cash Now, Dahlonega. 8 p.m. May 4. $15. The Historic Holly Theater, 69. W. Main St., Dahlonega. 706-8643759, www.hollytheater. com Blue Sky Concert, Gainesville. Noon May 9.

Featuring Tom Grimm Trio.

Downtown Gainesville.

Free.

Upcoming For Get Out

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STYX, REO Speedwagon with Ted Nugent, Atlanta.

May 10. Wireless Amphitheater, Atlanta. $65 and up. www. ticketmaster.com.

Zac Brown Band, Atlanta.

7 p.m. May 12. Aaron’s Amphitheater, Atlanta. $35

and up. www.livenation. com.

Dailey & Vincent, Gainesville. 7 p.m. May 11. Georgia Mountains Center, 301 Main St., Gainesville. $15 in advance, $20 at the door. 706-8647203, www.adamsand andersonbluegrass.com The Packway Handle Band, Gainesville. 9 p.m.

May 12. Loco’s, 601 S. Enota Drive, Gainesville.

Benefit for the Susan G. Komen 3 Day Walk. 770540-6673, skslwilliams@ hotmail.com.

Francine Reed, Sautee.

8 p.m. May 12, Sautee Nacoochee Community Association, 283 Ga. 255 N, Sautee Nacoochee.

Tickets: $20-$38. www.

snca.org, 706-878-3300.

North Georgia Chamber Symphony spring concert.

7:30 p.m. May 17, Grace Presbyterian Church in Dawsonville; 7 p.m. May 18, Old Courthouse on the Square, Blairsville; 7:30 p.m. May 19, Dahlonega United Methodist Church. Free. Donations welcomed. 706-8679444, northgeorgia chambersymphony.org.

Larry Barker Quartet, Gainesville. 8 p.m. May 19. The Arts Council’s Evenings of Intimate Jazz series. Smithgall Arts Center, 322 W. Academy St., Gainesville.

Tickets are $30 each.

770-534-2787, www.

TheArtsCouncil.net.

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Ludwig Orchestra honors Mother’s Day From staff reports The Ludwig Symphony Orchestra will present “A Cherry Blossom Mother’s Day Tribute” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 5, at the Fine Arts Center of Alpharetta High School.

The gala event features Russian violinist Yevgeny Kutik in three romantic

showpieces and Atlanta Opera tenor Wesley Morgan performing arias by Donizetti and Mozart.

The program also includes Mozart’s popular Symphony No. 41 (Jupiter), the Brahms-Variations on a Theme of Haydn, and Rossini’s-IL Signor Bruschino Overture.

Tickets are $19 for adults, $17 for seniors and $10 for students (younger than 22). To purchase tickets or learn more, call 770-623-8623 or visit www. ludwigsymphony.org.

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The Ludwig Symphony Orchestra will present “A Cherry Blossom Mother’s Day Tribute” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 5, at the Fine Arts Center of Alpharetta High School.

Tickets are $19 for adults, $17 for seniors and $10 for students (younger than 22).

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Marvel Studios finally unleashes its multiverse in all its cinematic glory in “The Avengers.” The stories built around Iron Man, Hawkeye and Black Widow have always stretched science moderately — on the comic book scale, mind you. The Hulk and Captain America stories push the science fiction boundary much further. And Thor exists in a fantasy world of gods and monsters. The first two acts of the film chronicle the process of these heroes overcoming their egos and rivalries and becoming The Avengers. “The Avengers” is thrilling, hilarious, supremely well-made, and doesn’t take itself too seriously. This is a great summer blockbuster.

Marvel’s ‘The avengers’

For Get Out

Ludwig Symphony Orchestra.

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The annual Gillsville Folk Pottery Festival is scheduled for 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 5, at Gillsville City Park north of town.

Gillsville Folk Pottery Festival.

Art in the Garden, Dawsonville. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 5-6. Garden-themed art festival with jewelry, pottery, live music and kid’s activities. Dawson County Art Council Bowen Center, 344 Highway 9 N, Dawsonville. Free to attend, goods for sale. 706-216-2787, www.dawsonarts.org/festival.htm.

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Johnny Cash Now, a tribute band honoring the late country legend, will perform at 8 p.m. Friday, May 4, at the Holly Theater in Dahlonega.

Johnny Cash Now.

THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

weekeND plANNeR

Northeast Georgia’s entertainment guide

gainesvilletimes.com/getout

reception tickets are $32 for members and $38 for non-members and includes beer and wine, light hors d’oeuvres and special reserved seats. General admission tickets are $20 for members and $26 for non-members. 283 Ga. 255 N Sautee Nacoochee. www. snca.org. 706-878-3300.

Francine Reed at SNCA theatre, Sautee Nacoochee.

8 p.m. May 12. Show and

Butterfly Release in Wilshire Park, Gainesville. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. May 20. Wilshire Park in Gainesville.

Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St., Gainesville. 770297-5900. www. negahc. org.

The Scoop on Poop exhibit, running May 26 through Sept. 3, is a hands-on, humorous approach to learning the science of studying animals based on the clues they leave behind in their droppings at Fernbank Museum of Natural History

Scoop on Poop.

MAY 11:

MAY 20: MAY 26:

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Ann Alexander, Rosemary Dodd, Joyce Hornor and Alice Paris will have their art on display at Brenau University starting May 9.

For Get Out

Elachee’s annual “Flights of Fancy” Benefit Auction, Gainesville. 6 to 9 p.m. May 11.

Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville. Dinner, wine, music, silent auction of garden items, birdhouses, yard art created by local artists. www.elachee.org.

lOOkING AHeAD President’s Summer Arts Series.

MAY 12:

Alpacas Shearing Festival, Cumming. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 5-6. Thunder River Suri Alpacas, 7830 Thunder River Way, Cumming. 717-994-4055, www.thunderriveralpacas.com

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Mountain Music Medicine Show, Dahlonega. 7:30 p.m. May 5. $15. The Historic Holly Theater, 69 W Main St., Dahlonega. www.hollytheater.com.

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The celebration will begin with a concert from 7-9 p.m. Friday. The arts and crafts fair will open at 9 a.m.

Saturday, with the festival kicking off at 10 a.m. with the annual parade. All of the festivities will take place in and around the historic train yard-turned-Railroad Park at 6055 Main St. in Lula.

The Game on the Green event will feature the Braves’ game at Denver on the big screen at Town Center Park. The game starts at 8 p.m., with festivities at Town Center starting at 6 p.m.

Game on the Green.

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The annual Gillsville Folk Pottery Festival is scheduled for 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 5, at Gillsville City Park north of town.

Railroad Days Festival.

FiLe | For Get Out

FiLe | For Get Out

Spring surprise musical (TBA), Gainesville.

7:30 p.m. May 3-4. $5. Gainesville Performing Arts Center. 830 Century Place, Gainesville. ghstheatre@ bellsouth.net.

MAY 9:

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outdoors

arts

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Thursday, May 3, 2012 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

Hey kids, be a pioneer!

McDaniel Farm holds Pioneer School program From staff reports The Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center invites visitors to step back in time to a one-room schoolhouse from the 19th century.

Pioneer School at McDaniel Farm runs from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, providing a historic look at the education of bygone days.

“Pioneer School is a unique hands-on living history experience that allows kids to participate in a traditional day of school from the early days of Gwinnett,” said Catherine Long, manager of GEHC’s History and Culture Program.

The program will take guests back in time to circa

1875 as students reciting their lessons to the teacher and participating in period games.

In the late 1800s, the school year revolved around the agricultural season and students maintained their chores while in school. Penmanship, spelling bees and McGuffey Readers were just a few of the tools used by teachers in the early days of education.

Participants age 7 and older can take part. They are invited to wear period dress or overalls and bring a typical lunch which consisted of brown bread, butter or jam, a hardboiled egg and an apple.

Admission cost is $15 per child for Gwinnett County residents and $18 for others. Pre-register by calling 770904-3500.

McDaniel Farm is located at 3251 McDaniel Road, Duluth.

For more information about this event and the History and Culture Program of the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center, visit www.gwinnettEHC.org.

Take in hot rods, cool pots Gillsville Pottery Festival, car show returns Saturday From staff reports The annual Gillsville Folk Pottery Festival is scheduled for 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 5, at Gillsville City Park north of town.

The event will feature several local potters displaying and selling their wares, including bowls, face jugs and other works.

Other activities are scheduled as well, including the Folk Festival Pottery Run 5-kilometer race and one-mile fun run. The 5K begins at 9 a.m., the fun run at 10; registration starts at 8 a.m. Fees are $25 for the 5K, $20 for the mile run, with awards to the top male and female runners in eight age groups.

Other events include a dog show at 10:30 a.m., with awards to top winners in various categories (entry fee $5 per event, $20 for all); a motorcycle show from 911:30 a.m. ($25 fee), with winners receiving hand-made pottery and a T-shirt; and a flag pole presentation at noon honoring local veterans.

Antique cars and equipment also will be on display.

Proceeds will benefit Midway United Methodist Church Helping Hands Locally.

For more information, contact Danny C. Rylee at 770654-6707 or 706-677-1570, email dcrylee@windstream. net.

For Get Out

family events This Week

Travel Craft Week, Gainesville. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

May 3-4. $1 per craft, members free. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St., Suite 11, Gainesville. 770-536-1900. www.inkfun.org.

US Army Mountain Ranger Open House 2012, Dahlonega.

11 a.m. May 5. Hands-on displays of current U.S. military equipment, aircraft fly-by and displays, military free-fall parachute jump, Ranger in-action demonstration, combatives and mountaineering demonstrations, cammo face painting, climbing wall.

U.S. Army Camp Frank D. Merrill. 706-864-3327 Spring Fling Festival, Dawsonville. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

May 5-6. Dawson County Middle School and Bowen Arts Center.

Mother’s Day Craft Week, Gainesville. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 7-11. $1 per craft, members free. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids, 999 Chestnut St., Suite 11, Gainesville. 770-536-1900. www.inkfun.org.

Friday Night Flicks, Cornelia. 8 p.m. May 4. “Smurfs.”

Cornelia City Park. Free. 706-754-2220.

Game on the Green puts Braves-Rockies on big screen From staff reports The Atlanta Braves are out of town this weekend, but you can still find a front-row seat to Saturday’s game against the Colorado Rockies — in Suwanee.

The Game on the Green event will feature the Braves’ game at Denver on the big screen at Town Center Park.

The game starts at 8 p.m., with festivities at Town Center starting at 6 p.m. Included will be the Braves’ fan experience, with inflatables and other games; a performance by the “Heavy Hitters,” the Braves drum line; and an appearance by mascot Homer the Brave.

The Braves and their radio and TV broadcasters will sponsor the event. Visitors can bring lawn chairs, blankets and tomahawks to cheer on the Braves.

No alcohol may be brought in, but beverage and food vendors will be on hand, with beer and wine sold on site.

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Chug on over to Lula Be a Ranger for a day

go o outdoors

Army’s Camp Merrill holds open house

BY BRANDEE A. THOMAS

bthomas@gainesvilletimes.com It’s full steam ahead for the annual Railroad Days Festival in Lula.

All of the festivities will take place in and around the historic train yard-turnedRailroad Park at 6055 Main St. in Lula.

The celebration will begin with a concert

by Rambling Country with Steve Dyer and Band from 7-9 p.m. Friday.

The arts and crafts fair will open at 9 a.m. Saturday, with the festival kicking off at 10 a.m. with the annual parade. This year’s Grand Marshal will be Ollie Bryson, a patriarch of the Lula community. The route will follow the old railroad tracks in downtown Lula.

Following the conclusion of the Railroad Days parade, which will include a variety of floats and other entries, attendees are invited back to the park for a full day of festival activities.

The family-friendly event will include food, vendors, crafts and live entertainment.

According to event organizers, a variety of performers will grace the main stage throughout the day.

From staff reports

FILE | The Times

Lula Railroad Days Where: Railroad Park, 6055 Main St., Lula When: 7-9 p.m. concert Friday; 10 a.m. parade, festival and live music Saturday

Attendees can anticipate being dazzled by dance acts, as well as bluegrass, country, rock and gospel bands and singers.

On Saturday some of the Army’s finest soldiers will demonstrate the skills and professionalism of the American Ranger for Camp Merrill’s Open House.

Equipment used by the U.S. Army Rangers will also be on display, including helicopters, night vision devices, weapons and parachutes.

Visitors will be able to see examples of the mountain phase of Ranger training and numerous displays.

Included in this year’s lineup of events will

outdoors events This week

Full Moon Hike, Tallulah Falls. 7-9 p.m. May 4.

8:15-10:15 p.m. May 5.

9:30-11:30 p.m. May 6.

Tallulah Gorge State Park.

Hike begins at Interpretive Center, follows North Rim Trail, descends Hurricane Falls Trail staircase to suspension bridge, 1.5 miles and 1,099 steps.

Register in advance. $5, plus $5 parking. 706-7547981.

Fun at the Fort, Winder.

7-9 p.m. May 4, 11, 18 and 25. Antique methods including candle dipping, brick oven bread baking, card loom. Fort Yargo State Park, 210 South Broad St., Winder. $3, $5 parking. 770-867-3489.

2012 Canadian Olympic Trials. May 4-6. Lake Lanier

Olympic venue. Canoe and kayak trials for London Olympics. 770-287-7888, www.lckc.org.

First Saturday Hike at Elachee. 10-11:30 a.m. May 5. “Birds and Migration,” Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville.

Naturalist-guided hike in Chicopee Woods Nature Preserve. Fee: $5 adults, $3 ages 2-12, under age 2 and Elachee members free. 770-535-1976. www. elachee.org.

Elachee’s Trail Crew Work Day. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

May 5. Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville.

Bring water, lunch, gloves and rain gear. Tools, training, and afternoon refreshments provided.

Free. Under age 18 must

be accompanied by an adult. 770-535-1976. www. elachee.org.

Dirty Spokes Mountain Bike Race, Winder. 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. May 5. Fort Yargo State Park, Winder.

Six and nine-hour races take competitors along mountain bike trail. Fee

plus $5 parking. 770-8673489.

Wildlife Show, Winder. 6-7 p.m. May 5 and 19. Fort Yargo State Park, Winder.

Live wildlife demonstration featuring native and exotic animals. Amphitheater in Campground 1. $3, plus $5 parking. 678-963-8891.

US Army Mountain Ranger Open House 2012

When: 11 a.m. Saturday, May 5 Where: U.S. Army Camp Frank D. Merrill, 1 Camp Merrill, 5th Ranger Training Battalion, Dahlonega More info: 706-864-3327

be hands-on displays of current U.S. Military equipment, aircraft fly-by and displays, military free fall parachute jump, Ranger’s inaction demonstration, combatives and mountaineering demonstrations, camo face painting and a climbing wall.

At 6 p.m. the Corbitt Brothers will perform in concert.

Also this year, the Mountain Ranger Run 5K and 15K will be starting

and finishing at the vicinity of the Camp Merrill Gym and wind through the Chattahoochee National Forest in a hilly loop along nonpaved Forest Service roads and trails.

For the somewhat more adventurous crowd, the 34K Mountain Bike Race is challenging enough for advanced riders yet forgiving enough for beginners.

For more information on start times and registration for the races, visit active.com.

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Thursday, May 3, 2012 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

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‘Avengers’ is pure comic book fun JEFF MARKER jmarker@gsc.edu

Film Review To paraphrase that immortal bard, MCA from Beastie Boys, we’ve been coming to where we are from the get-go.

After two Iron Man movies, “The Incredible Hulk,” “Thor,” “Captain America: The First Avenger,” several animated television series and the recently renamed and re-launched “Avengers Assemble” comic book series, Marvel Studios finally unleashes its multi-verse in all its cinematic glory in “The Disney Avengers.”

Thor portrayed by Chris Hemsworth, left, and Captain America, portrayed by Chris Evans, are shown in a scene We throw around the phrase from “The Avengers” “highly anticipated” a lot during summer, but outside of “The How can Thor, a demigod Fury, agent Natasha family, and that dynamic shines Dark Night Rises,” you won’t from an alternate universe, coRomanoff, aka Black Widow through, providing a lot of find a movie anticipated as exist with Tony Stark, a human (Scarlett Johansson), and humor. highly as “The Avengers.” tech billionaire modeled on real agent Phil Coulson (Clark Watching Stark spar with Assembling an entire team of public figures?

Gregg) must now assemble Banner, one of the few scientists one comic house’s heroes isn’t Fact is, you just have to go with some superheroes to reclaim who equal Stark’s intelligence, exactly unprecedented (you that part of the premise if you’re the Tesseract and defeat Loki. and Captain America, who is remember DC’s Justice League, going to enjoy this movie at all.

It would also be nice to save as selfless as Stark is selfish, right?), but this feels like the Building on previous Marvel Hawkeye, if possible. is a riot. That sense of humor biggest ever event of its kind. movies, “The Avengers” has Assembling Tony Stark/Iron is the one way in which “The It’s also that rarest of Loki (a gleefully smarmy Tom Man (Robert Downey, Jr.), Steve Avengers” will unquestionably moments for a critic, when I can Hiddleston), the mischievous Rogers/Captain America (Chris beat the inevitably brooding tell you that the movie actually half-brother of Thor (Chris Evans), Bruce Banner/The Hulk “The Dark Knight Rises.” lives up to its enormous hype.

Hemsworth), teaming up with (Mark Ruffalo) and Thor is one But the intra-team rivalries This is a great summer some particularly ugly and thing. Getting them to work also make for some great blockbuster. dangerous Asgardians to together proves much more action. Thor, Iron Man and My biggest concern conquer Earth. difficult.

Captain America battle it out in beforehand was how the story Loki crashes into the Each of these heroes is a terrain-destroying sequence would plausibly combine the secret underground facility of accustomed to dominating his which ends the only way it can: characters’ various worlds.

S.H.I.E.L.D.S. and steals the world (and his own movie). They a stalemate.

The stories built around Iron Tesseract, a source of unlimited don’t like being challenged, even That is merely a prelude to Man, Hawkeye and Black sustainable energy, right out of by other heroes. the climactic showdown, which Widow have always stretched the hands of Nick Fury (Samuel The first two acts of the film looks great and is surprisingly science moderately — on the L. Jackson), the director of chronicle the process of these satisfying. comic book scale, mind you.

S.H.I.E.L.D. heroes overcoming their egos Newcomers to the Avengers The Hulk and Captain America Loki also takes control over and rivalries and becoming The might want to watch the movies stories push the science fiction S.H.I.E.L.D., agent Clint Barton, Avengers. that have preceded this one, boundary much further. And aka Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner), Writer/director Joss Whedon especially “Thor” and “Captain Thor exists in a fantasy world of and scientist Eric Selvig (Stellan has talked about the Avengers America.” The story in “The gods and monsters.

Skarsgard). as being like a dysfunctional Avengers” grows directly out

‘Marvel’s The Avengers’ Starring: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson, Tom Hiddleston, Clark Gregg, Samuel L. Jackson, Jeremy Renner Rated: PG-13, for intense sequences of sci-fi violence and action throughout, and a mild drug reference Runtime: 2 hours, 22 minutes Bottom line: It’s everything you hope it will be

of those movies. Plenty of the humor also plays off of things in the Iron Man movies. You’ll enjoy this movie much more if you have already gone through those initiations.

“The Avengers” is thrilling, hilarious, supremely wellmade, and doesn’t take itself too seriously. I couldn’t ask for anything more from a summer blockbuster.

Jeff Marker teaches film and literature at Gainesville State College. His reviews appear weekly in Get Out and on gainesvilletimes.com/getout.

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showtimes

Bargain shows denoted by parenthesis ( ).

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

21 Jump Street (R) Thu. 7:15-9:45 American Reunion (R) Thu. 4:15-7:30-10:00 Fri.-Sun. 1:304:15-7:30-10:00 The Cabin in the Woods (R) Thu. 4:45-7:15-10:00 Fri.-Sun. 12:15-2:30-4:45-7:15-10:00 Chimpanzee (G) Thu. 4:00-7:10-9:15 Fri.-Sun. 11:45-2:004:00-6:45-9:15 Dr. Seuss’ the Lorax (PG) Thu. 7:15 The Five-Year Engagement (R) Thu. 4:30-7:30-9:45 Fri.-Sun. 1:00-4:30-7:15-10:00 The Hunger Games (PG-13) Thu. 4:00-7:00-9:30 Fri.-Sun. 1:00-4:00-7:00-9:30 Lockout (PG-13) Thu. 5:00-9:35 The Lucky One (PG-13) Thu. 4:45-7:20-9:45 Fri.-Sun. 12:002:30-4:45-7:20-9:45 Marvel’s the Avengers (PG-13) Thu. 12:01 Fri.-Sun. 12:001:00-3:00-4:00-6:00-7:00-9:00-10:00 Marvel’s the Avengers 3D (PG-13) Thu. 12:01 Fri.-Sun. 11:00-1:00-2:00-4:00-5:00-7:00-8:00-10:00 Mirror Mirror (PG) Thu. 4:15 The Pirates! Band of Misfits (PG) Thu. 4:35-9:15 Fri.-Sun. 11:30-4:35-9:15 The Pirates! Band of Misfits 3D (PG) Thu. 7:00 Fri.-Sun. 2:25-7:00 The Raven (R) Thu. 5:00-7:30-10:00 Fri.-Sun. 12:00-2:305:00-7:30-10:00 Safe (R) Thu. 5:00-7:15-9:30 Fri.-Sun. 12:30-2:45-5:007:15-10:00 Think Like a Man (PG-13) Thu. 4:15-7:00-9:45 Fri.-Sun. 1:15-4:15-7:00-9:45 The Three Stooges (PG) Thu. 4:30-7:20-9:30 Fri.-Sun. 11:30-2:15-4:30-7:20-9:30 Titanic 3D (PG-13) Thu. 4:00-8:00 Wrath of the Titans (PG-13) Thu. 7:10 Wrath of the Titans 3D (PG-13) Thu. 4:00-9:30

Regal Mall Of Georgia Stadium 20 678-482-5858 3333 Buford Drive, Suite 3000, Buford

21 Jump Street (R) Thu. 7:45-10:15 Fri.-Sat. 10:35-1:10 Sun. 10:35 Bully (PG-13) Fri.-Sat. 9:40-12:10-2:30-4:55-7:10-9:3011:50 Sun. 9:40-12:10-2:30-4:55-7:10-9:30 The Cabin in the Woods (R) Thu. 12:15-2:45-5:00-7:35-9:50 Fri.-Sat. 12:15-5:05-9:55-12:10 Sun. 12:15-5:05-9:55 Chimpanzee (G) Thu. 12:45-2:55-5:05-7:20-9:25 Fri.-Sun. 10:35-12:45-2:55-5:00-7:00 Dr. Seuss’ the Lorax (PG) Thu. 1:15-3:25-5:35 Fri.-Sun. 10:05-1:15-3:25-5:35 The Five-Year Engagement (R) Thu. 12:00-1:30-2:45-4:155:30-7:00-8:15-9:45 Fri.-Sat. 10:15-1:30-4:15-7:00-7:459:45-10:35-12:30-1:20 Sun. 10:15-1:30-4:15-7:00-7:459:45-10:35 The Hunger Games (PG-13) Thu. 1:00-4:05-7:30-10:30 Fri.-Sat. 9:50-1:00-4:05-7:30-10:30-1:30 Sun. 9:50-1:004:05-7:30-10:30 The Hunger Games: The IMAX Experience (PG-13) Thu. 12:007:00

gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, May 3, 2012

Lockout (PG-13) Thu. 11:30-1:50-4:20-6:45-8:55 The Lucky One (PG-13) Thu. 12:05-12:35-2:25-3:05-4:505:30-7:15-8:00-9:45-10:30 Fri.-Sat. 9:45-12:05-2:254:50-7:15-9:50-12:20 Sun. 9:45-12:05-2:25-4:50-7:159:50 Marvel Marathon (Not Rated) Thu. 2:15 Marvel’s the Avengers (PG-13) Thu. 12:15-12:30-12:501:10-1:30-1:50-2:00-2:10-2:30-2:40-2:50 Fri.-Sat. 9:30-10:00-12:00-12:45-1:15-3:05-4:00-4:30-6:10-7:157:45-9:15-10:50-12:20 Sun. 9:30-10:00-12:00-12:451:15-3:05-4:00-4:30-6:10-7:15-7:45-9:15 Marvel’s the Avengers 3D (PG-13) Thu. 12:0112:10-12:40-1:00-1:20-1:40 Fri.-Sat. 9:45-11:4512:15-1:00-2:50-3:20-4:15-5:55-6:25-7:309:00-9:30-9:45-10:30-12:05-12:35-12:50 Sun. 9:45-11:45-12:15-1:00-2:50-3:20-4:15-5:55-6:25-7:309:00-9:30-9:45-10:30 Marvel’s the Avengers: An IMAX 3D Experience (PG-13) Thu. 12:01-3:00 Fri.-Sat. 9:15-12:30-3:45-7:00-10:15-1:30 Sun. 9:15-12:30-3:45-7:00-10:15 Mirror Mirror (PG) Thu. 12:10-2:40-5:10-7:40-10:10 Fri.Sun. 9:35-2:35-7:25 The Pirates! Band of Misfits (PG) Thu. 12:00-2:10-4:206:30-8:40 Fri.-Sat. 10:30-12:55-3:10-5:20-7:35-9:5012:15 Sun. 10:30-12:55-3:10-5:20-7:35-9:50 The Pirates! Band of Misfits 3D (PG) Thu. 12:30-2:40-4:507:00-9:10 Fri.-Sat. 10:00-12:30-2:40-4:50-7:00-9:1011:20 Sun. 10:00-12:30-2:40-4:50-7:00-9:10 The Raven (R) Thu. 11:00-1:25-3:50-6:15-8:30 Fri.-Sat. 9:30-12:00-2:25-4:45-7:10-9:40-12:05 Sun. 9:30-12:002:25-4:45-7:10-9:40 Safe (R) Thu. 12:40-2:55-5:10-7:25-9:40 Fri.-Sat. 10:2012:40-2:55-5:10-7:25-9:40-11:55 Sun. 10:20-12:40-2:555:10-7:25-9:40 Think Like a Man (PG-13) Thu. 12:00-1:30-2:40-4:30-5:207:35-8:00-10:25 Fri.-Sat. 10:30-1:30-4:30-7:35-10:251:15 Sun. 10:30-1:30-4:30-7:35-10:25 The Three Stooges (PG) Thu. 12:05-2:20-4:40-7:00-9:20 Fri.-Sat. 9:50-12:05-2:20-4:40-7:05-9:20-11:35 Sun. 9:50-12:05-2:20-4:40-7:05-9:20 Titanic 3D (PG-13) Thu. 12:00-3:50-7:40 Fri.-Sat. 11:554:00-8:00-12:10 Sun. 11:55-4:00-8:00 Titanic: An IMAX 3D Experience (PG-13) Thu. 3:05 Wrath of the Titans (PG-13) Thu. 1:20-7:10 Wrath of the Titans 3D (PG-13) Thu. 4:20-9:35

Movies 400 678-513-4400

415 Atlanta Road, Cumming

21 Jump Street (R) Thu. 6:30-9:10

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American Reunion (R) Thu. (11:45-2:30) 6:30-9:15 The Cabin in the Woods (R) Thu. (11:20-1:45-4:10) 6:359:00 Fri.-Sun. 7:25-9:50 Chimpanzee (G) Fri.-Sun. (12:10-2:20-4:30) 6:40-8:50 Dr. Seuss’ the Lorax (PG) Thu. (11:00-1:20-3:40) The Five-Year Engagement (R) Thu. (12:30-3:25) 6:20-9:15 Fri.-Sun. (1:30-4:25) 7:20-10:15 The Hunger Games (PG-13) Thu. (11:00-2:15-5:30) 8:45 Fri.Sun. (12:00-3:15) 6:30-9:45 The Lucky One (PG-13) Thu. (11:00-1:35-4:10) 6:45-9:20 Fri.-Sun. (12:00-2:35-5:10) 7:45-10:20 Marvel’s the Avengers (PG-13) Thu. 12:01 Fri.-Sun. (11:302:45) 6:15-9:45 Marvel’s the Avengers 3D (PG-13) Fri.-Sun. (12:00-1:001:30-3:10-4:15-4:45) 6:20-7:30-8:00-9:30 Mirror Mirror (PG) Thu. (12:10-2:35-5:00) 7:25-9:50 The Pirates! Band of Misfits (PG) Thu.-Sun. (12:00) The Pirates! Band of Misfits 3D (PG) Thu.-Sun. (2:20-4:40) 7:00-9:20

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■ Please see Showtimes, 22

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Thursday, May 3, 2012 | gainesvilletimes.com/getout

SHOWtimes continued

The Raven (R) Thu. (11:05-1:404:15) 6:50-9:25 Fri.-Sun. (12:052:40-5:15) 7:50-10:25 Safe (R) Thu. (11:30-1:55-4:20) 6:45-9:10 Fri.-Sun. (12:30-2:555:20) 7:45-10:10 Think Like a Man (PG-13) Thu. (11:45-2:40) 6:00-8:55 The Three Stooges (PG) Thu. (11:101:35-4:00) 6:25-8:50 Fri.-Sun. (12:10-2:35-5:00)

Habersham Hills Cinemas 6 706-776-7469

Ga. 365 at Cody Road, Mount Airy

The Five-Year Engagement (R) Thu. 5:10-7:50 Fri. 3:05-5:45-8:30 Sat. 12:45-3:35-6:15-9:00 Sun. 1:354:45-7:55 The Hunger Games (PG-13) Thu. 4:20-7:30 The Lucky One (PG-13) Thu. 4:45-

7:00 Fri. 3:30-6:15-8:45 Sat. 12:10-2:25-4:40-7:00-9:15 Sun. 1:15-3:30-6:15-8:45 Marvel’s the Avengers (PG-13) Fri. 2:30-4:00-5:30-7:10-8:30 Sat. 12:00-1:30-3:00-4:30-6:05-7:409:05 Sun. 1:00-2:20-4:00-5:307:10-8:30 The Pirates! Band of Misfits (PG) Thu. 4:00-6:05-8:10 Fri. 2:505:00-7:30 Sat. 1:05-3:20-5:308:00 Sun. 2:50-5:05-7:30 Safe (R) Thu. 3:50-6:05-8:20 Fri. 4:25-6:40-8:50 Sat. 12:20-2:304:55-7:15-9:30 Sun. 2:00-4:206:35-8:50 The Three Stooges (PG) Thu. 5:408:00

Dawson 400 Stadium Cinemas 706-216-1622

189 North 400 Center Lane, Dawsonville

The Cabin in the Woods (R) Thu. 4:40-7:10-9:25 Fri.-Sun. 2:157:30 Dr. Seuss’ the Lorax (PG) Thu. 7:20

The Five-Year Engagement (R) Thu. 4:05-7:05-9:10 Fri.-Sun. 2:205:00-7:10-9:30 The Hunger Games (PG-13) Thu. 4:00-7:00-9:05 Fri.-Sun. 12:004:00-7:00-10:00 Lockout (PG-13) Thu. 4:55-9:35 The Lucky One (PG-13) Thu. 4:507:15-9:40 Fri.-Sun. 12:00-3:005:00-7:15-9:40 Marvel’s the Avengers (PG-13) Thu. 12:01 Fri.-Sun. 12:00-12:30-1:002:00-4:00-5:00-7:00-8:00-10:00 Marvel’s the Avengers 3D (PG-13) Thu. 12:01 Fri.-Sun. 1:00-4:007:00-10:00 Mirror Mirror (PG) Thu. 4:55-7:209:45 The Pirates! Band of Misfits (PG) Thu. 4:20-9:55 Fri.-Sun. 12:003:00-4:20-9:55 The Pirates! Band of Misfits 3D (PG) Thu. 6:55 Fri.-Sun. 1:00-7:20 The Raven (R) Thu. 4:30-7:05-9:35 Fri.-Sun. 2:30-5:00-7:30-10:00 Safe (R) Thu. 4:50-7:20-9:30 Fri.Sun. 12:05-3:00-5:25-7:40-9:55 The Three Stooges (PG) Thu. 4:307:00-9:50 Fri.-Sun. 12:05-5:009:50

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John Baer | Lionsgate

Catherine Chan portrays Mei, left, and Jason Statham portrays Luke Wright in a scene from “Safe.”

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goo movies NOW SHOWING Movie reviews from Associated Press and McClatchy Newspapers.

Stars out of four.

openING ‘Marvel’s The Avengers’ ■ Review, 10

continuING ‘The Raven’

H½ (R for bloody violence and grisly images.) Director James McTeigue and his colleagues peck at Edgar Allan Poe’s stories to fill out a plot that sounds sort of cool in concept — a serial killer using the author’s fiction as a blueprint for ghastly murders — but is featherheaded in execution.

John Cusack makes a terrible Poe, the somber role as one of literature’s great tortured souls spotlighting his limitations as an actor. With his little goatee and his black cape, Cusack vaguely looks the part, but he’s a lightweight — voice too whiny, mannerisms too exaggerated, cadence too reedy to bring alive the movie’s frequent passages of Poe’s lyrical writing.

Cusack’s Poe is enlisted by a Baltimore police detective (Luke Evans) to help solve a string of killings inspired by the author’s macabre stories. The movie reinforces how fiendishly clever Poe’s ideas were, but the filmmakers make poor use of their source material, wringing a few moments of gore from them while adding no suspense or originality of their own.

‘Safe’

H½ (R for strong violence throughout, and for language.) This is the worst Jason Statham movie since the last Jason Statham movie, carrying on the

bargain-budget action star’s tradition of building a body of work out of, well, dead bodies. Writer-director Boaz Yakin proves the ideal enabler for Statham’s brand of mindless carnage. Together, they turn Manhattan into a shooting gallery, stacking up corpses in service of a supposed story about one man’s path to redemption.

But really, all they care about is stacking up corpses, as many as they can, ripped apart by as many bullets as possible, with a few snapped necks and other more intimate moments of savagery to break up the repetitive tedium of the gunplay. The thin story has Statham as a mystery man with deadly skills who becomes the unlikely protector of a Chinese math prodigy (newcomer Catherine Chan) on the run from Chinese and Russian mobsters. Yakin selectively leaves enough bad guys standing for no apparent reason other than the prospects of a sequel.

Please, Hollywood, keep us safe from that.

‘Think Like a Man’

HH½ (PG-13 for sexual content, some crude humor and brief drug use.) What is essentially a shameless and overlong infomercial for Steve Harvey’s dating advice book becomes more tolerable and even enjoyable at times with the help of an attractive, likable cast. Harvey’s best-seller “Act Like a Lady, Think

gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, May 3, 2012

Like a Man” serves as the launching pad for four intertwined stories in which various types couple up and try to make a go of it. There’s The Dreamer (Michael Ealy) and The Woman Who Is Her Own Man (Taraji P. Henson), The Player (Romany Malco) and The 90-DayRule Girl (Meagan Good), and so on. But the ladies involved are armed with the knowledge of male romantic peculiarities that they’ve gleaned from the book — Tim Story’s film makes it seem as if every woman in Los Angeles carries it around all day like a Bible — so every move they make is calculated and executed strategically to get what they want. Conversely, the men grow suspicious, find out that the book exists and turn its words back on the women as their own weapon to get what they want. Story has a way with a comic ensemble cast, having directed “Barbershop”; he keeps things moving at a (mostly) lively clip and gives LA a glossy sheen. Ealy and Henson are insanely sexy together, and standup comedian Kevin Hart is, unsurprisingly, a scenestealer as the fast-talking, newly divorced guy of the bunch. But the script from Keith Merryman and David A. Newman, who also wrote “Friends With Benefits,” is crammed with plot and gets bogged down with contrivances.

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go o movies Alan Markfield | Sony Pictures-Screen Gems

From left, Jerry Ferrara, Gary Owen, Terrence J, Michael Ealy and Romany Malco are shown in a scene from “Think Like a Man.”

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Thursday, May 3, 2012

BBQ Cook-off ! Music ! Jewelry!

Beer ! Car Show! Kids < 10 Free!

Benefitting ScholarShipS for local StudentS

FRiday, May 25

6 p.m.-10 p.m.

Preview Party

$10 gets a close look at great cooks, first

crack at vendor wares and entertainment

by DrippiN’ Wet and the North hall high SChool Jazz BaND

Rain oR Shine

SatuRday, May 26

10 a.m.- 5 p.m.

$5 admission gets you in the gate. Nationally

known professional cook teams compete for top prize. local neighbors compete for braggin’ rights. Fun for kids. Vendors for clothing, jewelry, treats, spices, rubs. sauces & more!

Cooking contestants may offer samples after judging is complete. No outside food or beverages permitted. No pets except service animals for the disabled.

Summer camp

explosion

The school year is almost over, which means itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time for summer camp.

Pages 10-15 list area camps for all ages.

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Area camps Gainesville Parks and Recreation For more information: Call 770-531-2680 or visit www.gainesville.org/ recreation for a complete camp listing

Discovery Day Camp Ages: 6-12 Location: Gainesville Middle School Register by the Friday prior to each session Fee: $105 or $80 for city residents, early bird and sibling discounts Pre Camp: 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., camp 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., post camp: 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

May 29-June 1: Breaking The Ice June 4-8: Cowboys & Cowgirls June 11-15: Everyday Heroes June 18-22: Into The Wild June 25-29: How I Became A Pirate July 2-6: Stars & Stripes – No camp July 4 July 9-13: Super Soaked July 16-20: Spirit Week July 23-27: Remember When…

Camp Travel Lotta Ages: 6-12 Location: Trips depart from Martha Hope Cabin Register by May 7.

8 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 2125 Fee: $200 or $150 for city residents Campers travel on a fun exciting field trip each day of the week. Field trips include the following: Consolidate Gold Mine in Dahlonega, Fernbank Museum, World of Coke, the Georgia Aquarium, and Zoo Atlanta. Trips are subject to change due to situations beyond control.

Camp Lotta Watta Ages 6-12 Location: Trips depart from Martha Hope Cabin Register by July 16.

8 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 30Aug. 3 Fee: $200 or $150 for city residents Get ready to get wet!

Campers will travel to a fun-soaked destination each day of the week.

Campers will have fun at their favorite field trips like Helen Water Park and Georgia Aquarium.

Campers will also visit the new Geiser Tower attraction at Stone Mountain, experience the indoor water park at Bethesda Aquatic Center, and a day at the Frances Meadows Aquatic Center.

Trips are subject to change due to situations beyond control.

Princess Camp Ages: 4-8

If you are looking for a cultural activity for the kids, dance camps abound this summer in and around Gainesville.

FILE | The Times

Location: Meet at Gainesville Civic Center Register by June 14 for first session or July 12 for second session 9 a.m. to noon MondayThursday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Friday June 18-22; 9 a.m. to noon July 16-20 Fee: $170 or $125 for city residents Both sessions will

begin with a trip to Build A Bear, because every princess needs a loyal friend. Campers will then visit Alter Ego for Kids for a facial and makeup, Anastasia’s Tea room for

high tea, and will spend a day at the Civic Center Castle to make jewelry and get pampered. Session 1 will finish the week with princesses visiting Medieval Times to watch

all the Knights battle for their honor. To conclude session 2, princesses will learn to dance so they will be prepared to be swept off their feet by Prince Charming at the ball.

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Ballet Ages 3-5 Location: Frances Meadows Center 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. June 7–Aug. 2 Fee: $135 or $99 for city residents Many new exciting adventures are planned for ballerinas in this structured program designed for the early development of technical ballet and movement. It meets the needs and limitations of preschool age children by providing a carefully paced sequence of exercises to develop physical conditioning with poise and grace. Since children naturally respond to music and movement, the activities are presented through music. In the program, children will learn self-discipline, listening skills, coordination skills, left and right discrimination, patterns in movement and pre-ballet.

Chef Camp Ages 6-12 Location: Meet at Gainesville Civic Center Register by May 31 or July 5 9 a.m. to noon June 4–8 or July 9-13 Fee: $120 or $90 for city residents Campers will have the opportunity to learn what it takes to operate a restaurant as they visit Cheddar’s Casual Café.

Campers will also visit Papa John’s to learn how to make a pizza, and will perfect their bakery skills at Publix Grocery Store.

To complete the week, campers will stop by Panera Bread and learn how to create wonderful desserts at Bruster’s.

Veterinary Camp Ages 6-12 Location: Meet at Gainesville Civic Center Register by June 21 or

July 19 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays; 9 a.m. to p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays; a.m. to p.m. Thursdays; a.m. to p.m. Fridays June 25-29 or July 23-27 Fee: $135 or $100 for city residents Come learn what it takes to take care of some of your favorite four legged animals. As a part of Vet Camp, campers will visit and tour Animal Medical Care and learn what being a vet is all about. Campers will also visit the Yellow River Game Ranch, lend a hand at the Hall County Humane Society, check out the unique animals at the Chestatee Wildlife Preserve and finish the week with a tour of Zoo Atlanta!

Speed and Agility Camp Ages: 6-17 Location: Frances Meadow Aquatic Center Register by the Friday before each session 5:30 p.m. to 6:40 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. May

gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, May 3, 2012

1-24, June 5-28 or July 10-Aug. 2 Fee: $60 or $45 for city residents Speed, agility & conditioning; explosive training; power, quickness, balance, strength, injury prevention; lateral & liner movement.

Fishing Camp Ages: 8 and up Location: 1st day at Allen Creek Soccer Complex, then daily schedule to be provided Register by June 22 9 a.m. to noon June 25-29 Fee: $75 or $55 for city residents Learn how to bait a hook, the correct bait to use, safety measures and how to handle & care for a fish. Campers provide their own equipment and bait.

Please bring water bottle and small snack.

Volleyball camp Ages: 9-14 Location: Gainesville High

School gym Register by July 20 10 a.m. to Noon July 23-27 Fee: $75 or $55 for city residents Participants will learn the basic fundamentals of volleyball highlighting how to serve, spike, dig & volley. Campers provide knee pads and water bottle.

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Quinlan Visual Arts Center For more information visit www.quinlanartscenter.org or call 770-536-2575

SARA GUEVARA | The Times

Folk Art Road Trip

Instructor Fox Gradin demonstrates the best way to draw a can during art camp last summer at the Quinlan Visual Arts Center in Gainesville.

Grades 1 and up Location: Quinlan Visual Arts Center, 514 Green St. NE, Gainesville 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 4-8, June 11-15, June 18-22, June 25-29, July 2-6, July

9-13, July 16-20 or July 23-27 Fee: $125 for non-members or $100 for members each week; $245 for two sessions for non-member sessions or $195 for two

weeks for members Students will be making art with a variety of materials — painting, face jugs, weaving, found object sculpture, mobiles and more. Fee includes all

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June 11-15 or June 18-22 Fee: $140 for one week or $230 for both Ballet, jazz, choreography and performance — no experience is required.

Intermediate Mini-Intensive Ages: 7 and older 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

June 11-15 or June 18-22 Fee: $140 for one week or $230 for both Ballet, jazz, choreography and performance — experience is required.

Advanced Dancers’ Workshop Ages: 11 and older 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

June 11-15 or June 18-22 Fee: $150 for one week or $250 for both Join us for an afternoon of ballet, pointe variations and hip-hop. Ballet experience is required.

For Get Out

Kids take a break during an Elachee summer camp. This year, there are several opportunities to take advantage of educational camps. supplies and a the 2012 camp T-shirt. Classes will be divided by grades

Gainesville School of Ballet Location: GSB Dance Studios at the Brenau University Fitness Center, 800 Brenau Lane NE, Gainesville For more information or call 770-534-6282 or visit www.gainesvilleballet.org for a complete listing of camps.

Movement and Make-Believe Ages: 3-4 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. June 11-15 or June 18-22 Fee: $80 for one week or $135 for both

A ballet class, dancerelated crafts, dance history, music theory and acting are some of the many exciting activities your child will enjoy.

Enchanted Journey Ages: 4-6 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

June 11-15 or June 18-22 Fee: $105 for one week or $175 for both A ballet class, dancerelated crafts, dance history, music theory and acting are some of the many exciting activities your child will enjoy.

Beginning Dancers’ Adventure Ages: 7 and older 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

YMCA For more information call the Oakwood Family YMCA at 678-997-2878 or the J.A. Walters Family YMCA at 770-297-9622.

You can also visit www. gamountainsymca.org/ summercamp.

Adventure Zone Summer Camp Ages: 4-15 Pre-camp: 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., camp 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., post-camp 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Fees: Registration $25, $99 weekly Locations: May 29-July 27, Friendship Elementary School, 4450 Friendship Road, Buford; May 21Aug. 3, Oakwood Family YMCA, 3828 Main St., Oakwood; May 21-Aug. 3, J. A. Walters Family YMCA, 2455 Howard Road, Gainesville.

Elachee Nature Science Center For more information call 770-535-1976 or visit www.elachee.org for a complete listing of available camps. Beforeand after-care is available: $20 per week for a.m. care, $50 per week for p.m. care or $60 per week for both.

Pre-K and elementary camps Location: Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville 9 a.m. to noon for Pre-K

and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for elementary Fee: Pre-K $110 for members, $130 for nonmembers; elementary $120 for members, $140 for non-members June 4-8: Wet, Wetter, Wettest — Enjoy an early summer’s dousing of fun during water week.

Elementary students only.

June 11-15: Exploring the Animal Kingdom — A week of furry, feathery and scaly fun.

July 9-13: Bugs, slugs and Katydids — Discover all things crawling, flying, buzzing and chirping.

July 16-20: Lessons from the Cherokee — A blend of nature and history at Elachee

Middle school camps Location: Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Fee: $135 for members, $155 for non-members June 11-15: Extreme Creek Week — Redwine Creek hikes, stream sampling, fish shocking, watershed mapping and a compass course June 18-22: Adventures High and Low- Zip lines,

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creek hikes, tree climbing and a team ropes course (Extra fees may apply) July 9-13: Wilderness Survival — Edible and medicinal plants, shelter building, tracking, orienteering, First-Aid and leave no trace July 16-20: Elachee Mountain Bike Camp — Twists, turns, thrills and no spills. Beginners through advanced bikers welcome.

Counselors in Training Program Age: Rising ninth- through 12th-grade students Location: Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Mondays through Fridays Fee: $60 for training and supervision High school students

gainesvilletimes.com/getout | Thursday, May 5, 2012

Children look through a telescope at an Elachee summer camp. The center has various camps this summer for Pre-K, elementary and middle school kids.

who are interested in developing leadership skills while helping supervise campers may apply for a CIT position.

Call for an application.

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dyestuffs, cabin building, soap-carving, candledipping, and building toys, plus demonstrations of blacksmithing, carding, weaving, and spinning wool, mountain music and dancing, backpack survival skills and more.

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Northeast Georgia History Center For more information visit www.negahc.org or contact Julie Carson at 770-297-5900 or jcarson@ brenau.edu.

Our Appalachian Heritage Camp Ago: Rising fifth- through eighth-grade students Location: Northeast Georgia History Center, 322 Academy St. NE, Gainesville 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

June 11-15 and June 1822 for 10 to 12 year olds;

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Holly Valley Equestrian Center For more information call 770-983-3099 or visit www.ridehollyvalley.com.

Summer Camp For Get Out

June 25-29 for 11 to 13 year olds Fee: $60 per for members’ children or $80 per week for non-members Campers will be

immersed in the heritage and culture of the Northeast Georgia Appalachians and will create and construct a variety of items to take

home at the end of the week. Topics include defining and mapping Appalachia, preserving food, quilting a square, dyeing cloth with natural

Ages: 7 and older Location: Holly Valley Equestrian Center, 379 Cleveland Highway, Clermont 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Mondays through Thursdays, horse show at 6 p.m. Thursdays; May 2831, June 4-7, June 25-28,

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July 9-12, July 23-26 Fee: $250 per child per week Learn how to ride a horse. No experience required. Please bring your own lunch. Call ahead to reserve your spot.

North Georgia College & State University For more information call 706-864-1918 or visit www.northgeorgia. edu/summercamps for a complete listing.

Kids on Campus Ages: 8-12 Location: North Georgia College & State University, 82 College Circle, Dahlonega Fee: $149 each 9 a.m. to noon July 9-13Crime Scene Investigation or Art Explosion July 9-13: Space O’Rama or Get Crafty, 1-4 p.m.

July 16-20: Picture This, Twirl Mania or Passport to China, 9 a.m. to noon July 16-20: Mad Crazy Science or Top Chef, 1-4 p.m.

It’s never too early to begin a journey to college.

Kids on Campus provides opportunities for children ages 8 to 12 to enjoy some serious summertime fun. Our programs are specifically designed to spark new interests and examine new dimensions of arts & sciences.

Experimental Aircraft Assoc.

Chapter 690 For more information visit www.eaa690.org or call 770-339-0804

Summer Aviation Camp Age: Seventh- through 12th-grade students Location: EAA hangar at the Gwinnett County

Airport, 650 Brisco Blvd., Lawrenceville Register by May 11 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 11-15 Fee: $275 Activities covered include various types of aircraft construction methods, crash scene investigation techniques, principles of aeronautics, pilotage and visits to select facilities located at Briscoe Field

Georgia Pick and Bow For more information email Ann Whitley at awhitleysingleton@mac. com

Summer Music Camp Age: Rising fourth- through 12th-grade students Location: Dahlonega Baptist Church, 234 Hawkins St., Dahlonega 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. June 18-22 Fee: $210 per student, $140 for students that qualify for reduced lunch, $100 for students qualifying for free lunch Instruction will be offered in old-time and bluegrass music for fiddle, guitar, banjo and mandolin; plus song, dance and crafts.

Fifth Row Center For more information or the registration form, visit www.fifthrowcenter.com, call 678-357-7359 or email info@fifthrowcenter.com

Theater Camp ’12 Ages: 5-17 Location: 5509 Main St., Flowery Branch Half day: 9 a.m. to noon, $150; full day: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., $225.

Learn about everything from acting and dancing to stage combat and special effects makeup.

Business is booming this year for summer camps

By Hugo Martin Los Angeles Times

LOS ANGELES — Sporting goods stores might want to stock up on sleeping bags, mosquito spray and hiking boots. And grocers may want to boost their marshmallow supplies.

With an improving economy, enrollment in summer camps nationwide is surging, forcing some camps to hire extra counselors and build bigger facilities. And many camps are filling up much faster than in previous years, with the remaining spaces going quickly.

The growth in enrollment ranges from 5 percent to more than 30 percent among some California camps, with some camp directors saying they expect to reach capacity in the next month or so — nearly a month earlier than previous years.

At Pali Adventures in the San Bernardino Mountains town of Running Springs, Calif., enrollment is up about 34 percent for this summer, compared with the same time last year, said camp director Ian Brasset, who attributes the higher registration numbers partly to a stronger economy creating stable family budgets.

“People who have jobs and have money are more comfortable

about how they spend it,” he said, adding that he is hiring about 15 extra workers and building a $5 million, two-story dining hall to accommodate the growth.

The enrollment surge is a trend that camp operators across the country have started to see in the past few years.

Nearly 60 percent of camp operators responding to a national survey said enrollment increased in 2011 compared with the previous year, with about 21

percent saying enrollment was about the same, and about 21 percent reporting that enrollment had dropped, according to the American Camp Association, an Indianabased accreditation group for camps. The survey results for 2012 have yet to be released, but association officials say they expect the trend to continue.

Camp operators also attribute the rise in enrollment, in part, to a growing choice of specialized camps. Camps

such as Pali Adventures and others offer choices such as secret agent camp, water sports camp and flying trapeze camp.

Summer camps are big business. About 8,000 of the nation’s 12,000 summer camps are run by nonprofit groups or religious organizations.

But an additional 4,000 are run by private, for-profit companies, according to the American Camp Association.

Amanda Pagliari of Los Angeles has been enrolling

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her 13-year-old daughter Valentina at Pali Adventures for years. But this spring she noticed that the camp sessions her daughter wanted to try were filling up fast.

So, instead of waiting until April or May, as she had in the past, Pagliari said, she signed up her daughter in late February to attend a week of culinary camp and a week of dance camp.

“When signing up for the session in the past few years, we were able to do it last-minute,” she said. “This year, it was already getting full earlier.”

Camps that routinely fill to capacity each year say they are filling up much faster this year.

On the banks of Huntington Lake, about 70 miles east of Fresno, Calif., Gold Arrow Camp is expected to fill all six summer sessions this month, which usually doesn’t happen until May or June.

“We are definitely about to reach capacity,” said Alison Moeschberger, director of personnel and programs at the camp that serves a maximum of 260 children per session.

In another sign that families feel more confident about their financial situation, some camp operators say many parents are also registering to put their children in camp for longer sessions.

Barbara Griffith, a middle school teacher from Huntington Beach, Calif., said she signed up her 12year-old son Cody for two weeks of overnight camp this summer instead of the usual one week because she felt secure about her job this year.

“This year our district sent out no pink slips, which gives me the luxury to say, ‘OK, let’s do it,’ “ she said.

Still, Griffith said she reserved a spot for her

son in October to take advantage of a special discount for parents who register early. “We always sign up that early,” she added.

For good reason.

Summer camp can be expensive.

The American Camp Association has not tracked average camp fees over the last few years. Still, the group’s most recent survey found that nearly half of all camps — both day camps and overnight camps — charge at least $500 a week, with 16 percent of camps charging more than $1,000 per week.

The increase in enrollment contrasts with the sharp drop a few years ago, when the nation’s slogging economy forced many families to forgo summer camp.

“In 2007, the big thing was that families were scared,” said Michelle Ferrara Peterson, program director for AstroCamp in Idyllwild, in California’s San Jacinto mountains, which serves about 425 youngsters each summer.

“In 2007, they didn’t know how long they were going to be laid off and they wanted to clamp down on all disposable income spending.”

There are 7,000 overnight residential camps and 5,000 day camps in the U.S. Overnight programs suffered a bigger drop, while the decline was milder for camps that enrolled children only during the day.

Overnight camps now seem to be bouncing back even faster, according to many camp operators.

During the recession, enrollment at the Catalina Island Camp on California’s Santa Catalina Island dropped about 20 percent, said Tom Horner, executive director of the camp, which serves about 650 children a year.

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Hall County Library System Summer Reading Program and special events Locations: ■ Gainesville branch, 127 Main St. NW, Gainesville ■ Blackshear Place branch, 2927 Atlanta Highway, Gainesville ■ Murrayville branch, 4796 Thompson Bridge Road, Gainesville ■ Spout Springs branch, 6488 Spout Springs Road, Flowery Branch

Dream Big Read!

Age: Infants through rising 5th graders.

Registration: Sign up anytime between May 29 and July 20

Children can do reading activities at home for prizes

Special performances for elementary students: Gainesville branch: 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays Blackshear Place branch: 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays Murrayville branch: 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays Spout Springs branch: 2:30 p.m. Wednesdays June 5-6: All Hands Productions Puppets June 12-13: Storyteller

Barry Stewart Mann June 19-20: Reptiles and Swamp Wise with Okefenokee Joe July 17-18: Magician Ken Scott

Events for teens:

g o camps Teen Summer Reading Program: Own the Night:

Age: Rising sixth through 12th-graders Registration: Sign up anytime between May 29 and July 20 Teens can do reading activities at home for prizes

Teen After Hours: “The Hunger Games,” 5 p.m.

June 8, Gainesville branch, reservations required Extreme Magic with Arthur Atsma: 2:30 p.m. June 18, Blackshear Place branch Teen Iron Chef: 2:30 p.m.

June 25, Spout Springs branch Mix and Match Crafts: 2:30 p.m. July 9, Gainesville branch Are You a Werewolf? And Wrap Up Party: 2:30 p.m.

July 16, Spout Springs Branch

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Thursday, May 3, 2012