Banks County students will return to the classroom on Thursday for the first day of class.
The projected enrollment is 2,925 for the 2011-12 school year, up about 25 students over the 2010-11 total.
The school calendar will have back five more school days for kids, bringing the total days in class to 175.
“We look forward to returning for a new year and sustaining a history of excellence,” superintendent Chris Erwin said.
Entries by Angela Gary
Baldwin approves budget in split vote
In a 3-2 vote, the Baldwin City Council approved its budget Monday night.
The total fiscal year 2012 general fund budget revenues are $1.52 million with expenditures totaling $1.48 million. The total enterprise funds revenues are $3.07 million for 2012 with expenses at $3.12 million.
Council members Rodney King and Beverly Holcombe voted against the budget, while Sandi Rudeseal, Robert Bohannon and Jeff Parrish voted in favor of it.
The general fund budget includes a $60,000 salary for the city administrator’s position with human resources and finance director Karen Degges being promoted to this position effective Aug. 1.
The proposed general fund budget also includes a new position for a part-time revenue officer/animal control officer at $14.50 per hour.
A budget hearing was held last week but no citizens attended.
In other financial business, a discussion was held on the possibility of lowering the millage rate by a quarter of a percent. No action was taken but this will be discussed further at the August work session.
Degges also presented information on the Habersham County tax digest where assessments are down $3 million.
The total fiscal year 2012 general fund budget revenues are $1.52 million with expenditures totaling $1.48 million. The total enterprise funds revenues are $3.07 million for 2012 with expenses at $3.12 million.
Council members Rodney King and Beverly Holcombe voted against the budget, while Sandi Rudeseal, Robert Bohannon and Jeff Parrish voted in favor of it.
The general fund budget includes a $60,000 salary for the city administrator’s position with human resources and finance director Karen Degges being promoted to this position effective Aug. 1.
The proposed general fund budget also includes a new position for a part-time revenue officer/animal control officer at $14.50 per hour.
A budget hearing was held last week but no citizens attended.
In other financial business, a discussion was held on the possibility of lowering the millage rate by a quarter of a percent. No action was taken but this will be discussed further at the August work session.
Degges also presented information on the Habersham County tax digest where assessments are down $3 million.
Rustic charm of mountain resort perfect for family vacations
Joining fellow guests at the inn for a lively game of bingo in the huge downstairs lobby. Curling up on one of the sofas in the lobby to read a good book or working on needlepoint. Or going outside on the porch to play a rousing game of ping pong. How about a game of croquet on the lawn or enjoying the sunset from a rocking chair on the porch.
It sounds like a scene from days gone by, but it is a scene played out any time you go for a visit to the High Hampton Inn in the quaint country town of Cashiers, N.C. The inn hasn’t changed much over the years, which is why guests return year after year. Some guests have been enjoying vacations at the inn for more than 50 years, with no plans to stop.
The resort is nestled high in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina. Tall hemlocks and mountain laurel accent the mixed hardwoods of the 1,400-acre resort. Majestic mountains, a private 35-acre lake and gardens surround the historic country inn.
The architecture of the inn is rustic and blends with the natural beauty of the mountains and valley. Inside the large lobby, guests will find a huge chimney with four fireplaces. Comfortable mountain-crafted furniture fills the room. [Full Story »]
It sounds like a scene from days gone by, but it is a scene played out any time you go for a visit to the High Hampton Inn in the quaint country town of Cashiers, N.C. The inn hasn’t changed much over the years, which is why guests return year after year. Some guests have been enjoying vacations at the inn for more than 50 years, with no plans to stop.
The resort is nestled high in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina. Tall hemlocks and mountain laurel accent the mixed hardwoods of the 1,400-acre resort. Majestic mountains, a private 35-acre lake and gardens surround the historic country inn.
The architecture of the inn is rustic and blends with the natural beauty of the mountains and valley. Inside the large lobby, guests will find a huge chimney with four fireplaces. Comfortable mountain-crafted furniture fills the room. [Full Story »]
Banks students excel on CRCT
Banks County 5th and 8th Grade students mostly excelled on this year’s CRCT testing, doing well in areas that other schools have struggled with.
The state released system-wide results last week and will release individual school results next month.
Banks County 8th Graders had strongest results in Math where the system was in the top 10 statewide. Banks 8th Graders had a low failure rate of 6.1 percent in Math, far below the state’s average of 22.3 percent.
Eighth graders also did well in Science ranking among the top 20 school systems in the state and in Social Studies where the local failure rates were about half of the state average.
In the 5th Grade, Banks showed dramatic improvement in Math by improving its failure rate from 19.9 percent last year to 6.8 percent this year.
The state released system-wide results last week and will release individual school results next month.
Banks County 8th Graders had strongest results in Math where the system was in the top 10 statewide. Banks 8th Graders had a low failure rate of 6.1 percent in Math, far below the state’s average of 22.3 percent.
Eighth graders also did well in Science ranking among the top 20 school systems in the state and in Social Studies where the local failure rates were about half of the state average.
In the 5th Grade, Banks showed dramatic improvement in Math by improving its failure rate from 19.9 percent last year to 6.8 percent this year.
Scenic beauty, historical sites highlights of visit to Roanoke, Va.
Nestled in the middle of the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains is a town filled with history, culture, shopping and lots of dining options. Roanoke Valley, Virginia, offers wonderful historical and cultural destinations, as well as wonderful dining and shopping.
The Roanoke Valley, known as the capital of Blue Ridge Mountains in western Virginia, is located along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Visitors to Roanoke Valley can stay at a historic landmark, The Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center, which has been offering guests luxury, style and hospitality for more than 125 years. Built in 1882, the fully-restored Tudor-style hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Hotel Roanoke, located at 110 Shenandoah Avenue, is centrally located to the downtown area, as well as historic and cultural sites in the Roanoke Valley. The property is a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel property.
The hotel’s restaurants features locally grown foods from area farmers and businesses. Be sure to try the spoonbread and peanut soup, two signature dishes that are favorites of locals and visitors.
For more information on the hotel, call 540-985-5900 or check out the website at www.hotelroanoke.com.
A short walk from the hotel is the Virginia Museum of Transportation, the Taubman Museum of Art and the O. Winston Link Museum.
The walk to the Virginia Museum of Transportation showcases historic markers and artifacts from the railroad industry. Inside the museum, visitors can explore historic locomotives and other rail equipment, as well as cars, trolleys, buses and buses.
The Taubman Musem of Art features American art, folk art, modern and contemporary art with both regional and national exhibitors. Tours, special events, classes and camps are offered year-round.
O. Winston Link’s photography is featured in a museum at the visitor’s center. His stunning work features the heritage of the last major steam railroad, the Norfolk and Western Railway. For a look of his life and the history of the railway, check out the movie offered several times daily.
The most visible attraction in the downtown area is the Roanoke Star, a 100-foot high illuminated steel and concrete structure that is a beacon at the top of Mill Mountain. It has been in place for more than 60 years and is a popular stop for visitors to the area. The view from atop the mountain of the Roanoke Valley is amazing. It’s also a great place for some hiking and outdoor adventure.
While in the area, check out the Mill Mountain Zoo, which has 88 species of animals, as well as a train ride for the youngsters. Prarie dogs, goats, pot bellied pigs, wolverines, snow leopards, red pandas and pallas cats are among the animals found at the zoo.
The Roanoker Restaurant, located at 2522 Colonial Avenue, has been serving the area since 1941 and has recently received national attention, including the biscuits being featured on the “Today Show” and in “Southern Living.” The biscuits were great with an order of wafer-sliced country ham with red eye gravy, served with two eggs and grits. Also be sure to try the sausage gravy. It’s a Southern breakfast that is a delightful way to start a day of exploring Roanoke.
In downtown, the Market District is a great place to find fresh produce and flowers, unique gifts and fun dining. A farmer’s market is the central point of the shopping district.
OTHER SHOPPING
Grandin Village offers charming shops filled with unique gifts and treasures.
In Too Many Books, located at 1330 Grandin Road, you will find a treasure trove of books. From classics to mysteries to romances, you will find it all in this wonderful book store. Plan to spend some time exploring every corner of the book store.
New to Me Consignment Boutique is a great place to find a treasure, including vintage purses, artwork and antiques.
Black Dog Salvage is a unique place filled with all kinds of antiques and architectural relics. You can spend hours looking through all of the treasures in the 40,000 square feet site. Antique wrought iron, stained glass, mantles, garden structures, doors, vintages house parts and more are among the items to be found.
The General Grandin Theatre, built in 1931, continues to offer first-run and classic movies. It is a historic site, as it was the first theater in Roanoke to offer “talkie” movies. Free cartoons are offered on Saturday mornings.
While in Grandin, stop in Cups for coffee or tea and a pastry or lunch. Local art and information on the area from owner Michelle Bennett are other reasons to stop in. With the comfy chairs and sofas, it’s a great place to hang out.
In the nearby Southwest Historic District, Wildflour market and bakery at 1212 4th Street Southeast is a great stop for lunch. The first thing you will notice is the amazing array of cakes located in the glass cases alongside one wall of the restaurant. The menu includes soups, salads, sandwiches, wraps, entrees and desserts. A great choice is the doctor’s macaroni and cheese, which has mushrooms, onions, garlic and cheddar cheese sauce with bread crumbs on top.
Each December, the Historic District of Old Southwest offers a Holiday Tour of Homes. Eight to 10 properties are showcases each year. It’s a great look at some of the historic properties in the neighborhood.
AREA ATTRACTIONS
Located a short drive from Roanoke Valley, is The Natural Bridge in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. The natural wonder was deeded to Thomas Jefferson. Jefferson established a visitor lodge and opened the site to visitors from around the world. The site remains privately owned and opened to tourists. Admission to the Natural Bridge includes a visit to a Native American Monocan Village, the Natural Bridge Caverns, a wax museum and toy museum and a drama of creation light show each evening at dusk. A hotel is located on the site.
In nearby Salem, you can check out a minor league game featuring the Salem Red Sox. The stadium is a perfect size with great seats on all levels. Grab a hot dog and sit back to enjoy a fun family night out. For more information, go to www.salemsox.com.
For more information on Roanoke Valley, go to www.visitroanokeva.com.
Angela Gary is an editor with MainStreet Newspapers Inc. She can be reached at AngieEditor@aol.com.
The Roanoke Valley, known as the capital of Blue Ridge Mountains in western Virginia, is located along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Visitors to Roanoke Valley can stay at a historic landmark, The Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center, which has been offering guests luxury, style and hospitality for more than 125 years. Built in 1882, the fully-restored Tudor-style hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Hotel Roanoke, located at 110 Shenandoah Avenue, is centrally located to the downtown area, as well as historic and cultural sites in the Roanoke Valley. The property is a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel property.
The hotel’s restaurants features locally grown foods from area farmers and businesses. Be sure to try the spoonbread and peanut soup, two signature dishes that are favorites of locals and visitors.
For more information on the hotel, call 540-985-5900 or check out the website at www.hotelroanoke.com.
A short walk from the hotel is the Virginia Museum of Transportation, the Taubman Museum of Art and the O. Winston Link Museum.
The walk to the Virginia Museum of Transportation showcases historic markers and artifacts from the railroad industry. Inside the museum, visitors can explore historic locomotives and other rail equipment, as well as cars, trolleys, buses and buses.
The Taubman Musem of Art features American art, folk art, modern and contemporary art with both regional and national exhibitors. Tours, special events, classes and camps are offered year-round.
O. Winston Link’s photography is featured in a museum at the visitor’s center. His stunning work features the heritage of the last major steam railroad, the Norfolk and Western Railway. For a look of his life and the history of the railway, check out the movie offered several times daily.
The most visible attraction in the downtown area is the Roanoke Star, a 100-foot high illuminated steel and concrete structure that is a beacon at the top of Mill Mountain. It has been in place for more than 60 years and is a popular stop for visitors to the area. The view from atop the mountain of the Roanoke Valley is amazing. It’s also a great place for some hiking and outdoor adventure.
While in the area, check out the Mill Mountain Zoo, which has 88 species of animals, as well as a train ride for the youngsters. Prarie dogs, goats, pot bellied pigs, wolverines, snow leopards, red pandas and pallas cats are among the animals found at the zoo.
The Roanoker Restaurant, located at 2522 Colonial Avenue, has been serving the area since 1941 and has recently received national attention, including the biscuits being featured on the “Today Show” and in “Southern Living.” The biscuits were great with an order of wafer-sliced country ham with red eye gravy, served with two eggs and grits. Also be sure to try the sausage gravy. It’s a Southern breakfast that is a delightful way to start a day of exploring Roanoke.
In downtown, the Market District is a great place to find fresh produce and flowers, unique gifts and fun dining. A farmer’s market is the central point of the shopping district.
OTHER SHOPPING
Grandin Village offers charming shops filled with unique gifts and treasures.
In Too Many Books, located at 1330 Grandin Road, you will find a treasure trove of books. From classics to mysteries to romances, you will find it all in this wonderful book store. Plan to spend some time exploring every corner of the book store.
New to Me Consignment Boutique is a great place to find a treasure, including vintage purses, artwork and antiques.
Black Dog Salvage is a unique place filled with all kinds of antiques and architectural relics. You can spend hours looking through all of the treasures in the 40,000 square feet site. Antique wrought iron, stained glass, mantles, garden structures, doors, vintages house parts and more are among the items to be found.
The General Grandin Theatre, built in 1931, continues to offer first-run and classic movies. It is a historic site, as it was the first theater in Roanoke to offer “talkie” movies. Free cartoons are offered on Saturday mornings.
While in Grandin, stop in Cups for coffee or tea and a pastry or lunch. Local art and information on the area from owner Michelle Bennett are other reasons to stop in. With the comfy chairs and sofas, it’s a great place to hang out.
In the nearby Southwest Historic District, Wildflour market and bakery at 1212 4th Street Southeast is a great stop for lunch. The first thing you will notice is the amazing array of cakes located in the glass cases alongside one wall of the restaurant. The menu includes soups, salads, sandwiches, wraps, entrees and desserts. A great choice is the doctor’s macaroni and cheese, which has mushrooms, onions, garlic and cheddar cheese sauce with bread crumbs on top.
Each December, the Historic District of Old Southwest offers a Holiday Tour of Homes. Eight to 10 properties are showcases each year. It’s a great look at some of the historic properties in the neighborhood.
AREA ATTRACTIONS
Located a short drive from Roanoke Valley, is The Natural Bridge in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. The natural wonder was deeded to Thomas Jefferson. Jefferson established a visitor lodge and opened the site to visitors from around the world. The site remains privately owned and opened to tourists. Admission to the Natural Bridge includes a visit to a Native American Monocan Village, the Natural Bridge Caverns, a wax museum and toy museum and a drama of creation light show each evening at dusk. A hotel is located on the site.
In nearby Salem, you can check out a minor league game featuring the Salem Red Sox. The stadium is a perfect size with great seats on all levels. Grab a hot dog and sit back to enjoy a fun family night out. For more information, go to www.salemsox.com.
For more information on Roanoke Valley, go to www.visitroanokeva.com.
Angela Gary is an editor with MainStreet Newspapers Inc. She can be reached at AngieEditor@aol.com.
GPA attorney says email to council on budget is an open record
Baldwin finance director Karen Degges claims that an email she wrote city officials should not have been released because it falls under “attorney-client” documents but Georgia Press Association attorney David Hudson said that is not the case and it is an open record.
“The attorney-client privilege would only apply to communications concerning pending litigation or claims between the city and its attorney,” Hudson said. “ It does not cover communications by a city employee to council members.”
In the email, Degges pushed the city council to meet separate to discuss the budget so that the public (and press) would not be present.
“I apologize to the council, the city attorney, staff and the media for not doing a better job of managing the many budget issues, managing Saturday’s meeting in a more effective manner, and by any of my actions that would lead anyone to think the city was attempting to hide anything from the public,” Degges said. “As the budget process unfolds, I believe all concerned will see the City was and is trying to be as forthcoming as possible on all issues, while trying to be sensitive to the feelings of our employees.”
DEGGES EMAIL
The email Degges sent to the city council members and the city attorney is as follows:
Email dated: Monday, June 13, 2011 11:38 AM
Good morning everyone,
Saturday’s meeting was one more challenging that I had hoped it would be, with the unexpected attendance by the media (after they said they would not be there at last Thursday’s work session). Clearly there is a huge amount of media interest in the activities of Baldwin, on an extremely detailed level that I have not seen with the other cities I’ve worked for. Unfortunately, the handouts I had prepared for you folks included detailed information about employee salaries, as I thought we were going to be in the position where we could have much more frank discussion about the budgets submitted by the department heads. I had hoped we would leave that meeting with a clear outline of what needed to be cut, or some clear direction from the council as to what staff should do to get the budget in presentation form. We could not get to that goal with the added distraction of having the press literally sitting right there on top of us looking at the notes being taken by the City Clerk and Council members, asking questions, and providing their input as to what we should be budgeting for. I am all for transparency in government, but not when it’s to the point where work is being impeded and the line between who is staff and who is media is being blurred. It took us four hours to get through the budget summary, which had no detailed information at all.
It is going to be very difficult to have another public meeting, which is scheduled for this Thursday at 5:30 at City Hall, and go into the level of detail that will be needed to examine potential budget cuts and/or tax increases to fund what has been requested. Sharon and I had some disagreement first thing Saturday when she asked for a complete set of handouts, which were draft working documents (and labeled so) for our internal use. Initially I refused to provide her with anything, but then she said she was going to ask the Mayor for a set of documents. Then I relented and gave her Robert’s copy of the 3 page departmental summary, and she advised she would be writing up any number we discussed in our meeting. That forced me to hang onto the other handouts. It will be inflammatory enough in the paper to have her print (as I am expecting) that staff has asked for an additional $150,000 in funding, which will require a 2.5 tax mil increase.
Normally all of this behind the scenes discussion of budget details, salaries and proposed budget cuts would be handled by staff (under the City Manager’s direction) prior to presenting the budget to the elected officials. The use of a budget committee of 3 elected officials was discussed but not implemented on Saturday. Since everyone indicated they want to be involved in the budget process (and it is your right to be as elected officials), I think some serious thought needs to be given as to whether or not we want to continue doing this level of detailed discussion and possible disagreement (about what and where to cut) in full view of the press. My primary concern is preserving some level of privacy for our employees, who do not want their pay detailed on the front page of the newspaper for all of their neighbors to see.
I will be putting together some numbers this afternoon on a few different scenarios for possible cost savings, and I would much prefer to meet with three of you Thursday morning, and the second three Thursday afternoon, and it be done as two staff meetings, than be forced to provide the press an abundance of sensitive information, including employee salaries, in a public meeting. Not to mention how much longer it will take to get through all this information in that type of meeting structure. If we proceed with the original plan, the hand-outs used will (I feel sure) be challenged again, and be again requested by the media. Even if those aren’t distributed, everything we say will be public record.
I do not want to take away from or diminish anyone’s participation, but to do this type of detailed budget work in front of the press is not going to be easy or pleasant. Please think this over and let me know if you still want to have the Special Called Meeting on Thursday, or handle this as two separate staff meetings. No matter what is decided, I will try to adjust the content of any handouts accordingly, and at least be more prepared for full publication of any documents.
If any of you have any questions about the material I gave you to take home, please give me a call or stop by and I will be happy to assist you.
Karen
“The attorney-client privilege would only apply to communications concerning pending litigation or claims between the city and its attorney,” Hudson said. “ It does not cover communications by a city employee to council members.”
In the email, Degges pushed the city council to meet separate to discuss the budget so that the public (and press) would not be present.
“I apologize to the council, the city attorney, staff and the media for not doing a better job of managing the many budget issues, managing Saturday’s meeting in a more effective manner, and by any of my actions that would lead anyone to think the city was attempting to hide anything from the public,” Degges said. “As the budget process unfolds, I believe all concerned will see the City was and is trying to be as forthcoming as possible on all issues, while trying to be sensitive to the feelings of our employees.”
DEGGES EMAIL
The email Degges sent to the city council members and the city attorney is as follows:
Email dated: Monday, June 13, 2011 11:38 AM
Good morning everyone,
Saturday’s meeting was one more challenging that I had hoped it would be, with the unexpected attendance by the media (after they said they would not be there at last Thursday’s work session). Clearly there is a huge amount of media interest in the activities of Baldwin, on an extremely detailed level that I have not seen with the other cities I’ve worked for. Unfortunately, the handouts I had prepared for you folks included detailed information about employee salaries, as I thought we were going to be in the position where we could have much more frank discussion about the budgets submitted by the department heads. I had hoped we would leave that meeting with a clear outline of what needed to be cut, or some clear direction from the council as to what staff should do to get the budget in presentation form. We could not get to that goal with the added distraction of having the press literally sitting right there on top of us looking at the notes being taken by the City Clerk and Council members, asking questions, and providing their input as to what we should be budgeting for. I am all for transparency in government, but not when it’s to the point where work is being impeded and the line between who is staff and who is media is being blurred. It took us four hours to get through the budget summary, which had no detailed information at all.
It is going to be very difficult to have another public meeting, which is scheduled for this Thursday at 5:30 at City Hall, and go into the level of detail that will be needed to examine potential budget cuts and/or tax increases to fund what has been requested. Sharon and I had some disagreement first thing Saturday when she asked for a complete set of handouts, which were draft working documents (and labeled so) for our internal use. Initially I refused to provide her with anything, but then she said she was going to ask the Mayor for a set of documents. Then I relented and gave her Robert’s copy of the 3 page departmental summary, and she advised she would be writing up any number we discussed in our meeting. That forced me to hang onto the other handouts. It will be inflammatory enough in the paper to have her print (as I am expecting) that staff has asked for an additional $150,000 in funding, which will require a 2.5 tax mil increase.
Normally all of this behind the scenes discussion of budget details, salaries and proposed budget cuts would be handled by staff (under the City Manager’s direction) prior to presenting the budget to the elected officials. The use of a budget committee of 3 elected officials was discussed but not implemented on Saturday. Since everyone indicated they want to be involved in the budget process (and it is your right to be as elected officials), I think some serious thought needs to be given as to whether or not we want to continue doing this level of detailed discussion and possible disagreement (about what and where to cut) in full view of the press. My primary concern is preserving some level of privacy for our employees, who do not want their pay detailed on the front page of the newspaper for all of their neighbors to see.
I will be putting together some numbers this afternoon on a few different scenarios for possible cost savings, and I would much prefer to meet with three of you Thursday morning, and the second three Thursday afternoon, and it be done as two staff meetings, than be forced to provide the press an abundance of sensitive information, including employee salaries, in a public meeting. Not to mention how much longer it will take to get through all this information in that type of meeting structure. If we proceed with the original plan, the hand-outs used will (I feel sure) be challenged again, and be again requested by the media. Even if those aren’t distributed, everything we say will be public record.
I do not want to take away from or diminish anyone’s participation, but to do this type of detailed budget work in front of the press is not going to be easy or pleasant. Please think this over and let me know if you still want to have the Special Called Meeting on Thursday, or handle this as two separate staff meetings. No matter what is decided, I will try to adjust the content of any handouts accordingly, and at least be more prepared for full publication of any documents.
If any of you have any questions about the material I gave you to take home, please give me a call or stop by and I will be happy to assist you.
Karen
‘Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’ at Fox Theatre June 21-26
Theater of the Stars presents “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” with an award winning score by the legendary composing team of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta for eight performances from Tuesday, June 21 through Sunday, June 26.
Tickets range from $25 to $65 and are on sale at www.theaterofthestars.com. Discounted group tickets for 15 or more can be purchased by calling 404-881-2000 or online at www.foxtheatre.org/groupsales.aspx.
Theater of the Stars is not only presenting the show but is also producing it.
“We have put together a very strong cast to bring this much cherished Biblical tale with an ancient setting but with contemporary relevance to life,” says Theater of the Stars producer Christopher Manos. “We also have a very talented group of over 50 children from the Atlanta area that make up the special chorus in this production.”
The saga of Joseph and his coat of many colors comes alive in this delightful musical parable. Joseph, his father's favorite son, is a boy blessed with prophetic dreams. When he is sold into slavery by his jealous brothers and taken to Egypt, Joseph endures a series of adventures in which his spirit and humanity are continually challenged.
Set to an engaging cornucopia of musical styles, from country-western and calypso to bubble-gum pop and rock 'n' roll, this Old Testament tale emerges both timely and timeless.
The Atlanta engagement is being produced by Christopher Manos and directed and choreographed by Norb Joerder. Joey Chancey is the musical director and conductor.
Theater of the Stars is one of the oldest regional theaters in America. Since the organization’s founding in 1953, they have produced or presented over 700 productions in Atlanta, across the country, and around the world. Theatre of the Stars is a not-for-profit organization run by a Board of dedicated volunteer Trustees. They have played a leading role in the birth or development of several of Atlanta’s artistic institutions including the Alliance Theatre, the Atlanta Ballet, the Atlanta Children’s Theatre, the Grand Opera in the Park, the Winter Play Series, and the Just Us Theatre Company. They annually employ hundreds of Atlanta artists and other professionals for their local productions. Theater of the Star’s mission today is the same as it was over fifty years ago — to produce and present the best of Broadway musicals.
For more information and a list of upcoming shows, visit www.theaterofthestars.com.
Tickets range from $25 to $65 and are on sale at www.theaterofthestars.com. Discounted group tickets for 15 or more can be purchased by calling 404-881-2000 or online at www.foxtheatre.org/groupsales.aspx.
Theater of the Stars is not only presenting the show but is also producing it.
“We have put together a very strong cast to bring this much cherished Biblical tale with an ancient setting but with contemporary relevance to life,” says Theater of the Stars producer Christopher Manos. “We also have a very talented group of over 50 children from the Atlanta area that make up the special chorus in this production.”
The saga of Joseph and his coat of many colors comes alive in this delightful musical parable. Joseph, his father's favorite son, is a boy blessed with prophetic dreams. When he is sold into slavery by his jealous brothers and taken to Egypt, Joseph endures a series of adventures in which his spirit and humanity are continually challenged.
Set to an engaging cornucopia of musical styles, from country-western and calypso to bubble-gum pop and rock 'n' roll, this Old Testament tale emerges both timely and timeless.
The Atlanta engagement is being produced by Christopher Manos and directed and choreographed by Norb Joerder. Joey Chancey is the musical director and conductor.
Theater of the Stars is one of the oldest regional theaters in America. Since the organization’s founding in 1953, they have produced or presented over 700 productions in Atlanta, across the country, and around the world. Theatre of the Stars is a not-for-profit organization run by a Board of dedicated volunteer Trustees. They have played a leading role in the birth or development of several of Atlanta’s artistic institutions including the Alliance Theatre, the Atlanta Ballet, the Atlanta Children’s Theatre, the Grand Opera in the Park, the Winter Play Series, and the Just Us Theatre Company. They annually employ hundreds of Atlanta artists and other professionals for their local productions. Theater of the Star’s mission today is the same as it was over fifty years ago — to produce and present the best of Broadway musicals.
For more information and a list of upcoming shows, visit www.theaterofthestars.com.
Blue Ridge, Ellijay offer scenic beauty, outdoor adventure and more
Picking strawberries in an orchard overlooking the mountainside, riding a train through the North Georgia countryside, shopping for treasures and antiques in Blue Ridge and Ellijay and enjoying meals prepared with farm fresh ingredients.
A recent weekend visit to the North Georgia mountains included plenty of relaxation and adventures in the scenic towns of Blue Ridge and Ellijay.
In Blue Ridge, kick off your visit with a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, which gives a nice relaxing train ride that provides a great view of the mountains and countryside. Kids and adults alike will enjoy a sightseeing adventure on the train. Rail and river adventures, fall foliage tours and the Santa train are among the excursions offered. [Full Story »]
A recent weekend visit to the North Georgia mountains included plenty of relaxation and adventures in the scenic towns of Blue Ridge and Ellijay.
In Blue Ridge, kick off your visit with a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, which gives a nice relaxing train ride that provides a great view of the mountains and countryside. Kids and adults alike will enjoy a sightseeing adventure on the train. Rail and river adventures, fall foliage tours and the Santa train are among the excursions offered. [Full Story »]
Spring in full bloom at Barnsley Gardens
Barnsley Resort is in full bloom with Dogwood, Daffodils and Wisteria found throughout the property. Whatever time of year you visit, something is in bloom making for a fragrant, colorful adventure.
A visit to Barnsley Gardens is a relaxing get-away that is only a few hours away from North Georgia but feels far removed from hectic pace of everyday life. Visitors will relax as soon as they drive onto the property.
Wonderful dining options, an amazing spa, plenty of outdoor activities and a visit from the Fairy Godmother are a few of the highlights of a recent long weekend visit to Barnsley Resort. [Full Story »]
A visit to Barnsley Gardens is a relaxing get-away that is only a few hours away from North Georgia but feels far removed from hectic pace of everyday life. Visitors will relax as soon as they drive onto the property.
Wonderful dining options, an amazing spa, plenty of outdoor activities and a visit from the Fairy Godmother are a few of the highlights of a recent long weekend visit to Barnsley Resort. [Full Story »]
Adventure, entertainment and more in Pigeon Forge
High-energy country music shows with first-class singing, dancing and musicians. A spellbinding magic show that will amaze children and adults alike. Pigeon Forge, Tenn., has plenty of entertainment options for adults and children alike.
Rolling down a hill-side in a huge inflatable globe for the ride of your life. Soaring in the air in a vertical wind tunnel that allows you to experience the freedom of human flight. A game of putt putt surrounded by whimsical figurines. Soft adventure and hard adventure are both found in Pigeon Forge.
Pigeon Forge is the perfect family vacation destination filled with plenty of entertainment and adventure opportunities. On a recent four-day visit, we crammed in as many attractions as possible and started a list of the things we want to try on our next visit. [Full Story »]
Rolling down a hill-side in a huge inflatable globe for the ride of your life. Soaring in the air in a vertical wind tunnel that allows you to experience the freedom of human flight. A game of putt putt surrounded by whimsical figurines. Soft adventure and hard adventure are both found in Pigeon Forge.
Pigeon Forge is the perfect family vacation destination filled with plenty of entertainment and adventure opportunities. On a recent four-day visit, we crammed in as many attractions as possible and started a list of the things we want to try on our next visit. [Full Story »]
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