Heading to the beach with a naturalist for a turtle excavation where guests watch as eggs are dug out of the sandy nest and then an exciting discovery is uncovered. A tiny turtle is found in the nest and the group takes it out to the ocean and sends it off with good wishes on its journey.
Walking along the beach with a naturalist who points out different kinds of shells and birds. An amazing collection of shells of all sizes and shapes, as well as starfish, are waiting for beachcombers.
A night time nature drive where everyone crowds into the seats in the back of a pick up truck with a spot light to look at the animals, including deer and alligator.
All of this and more can be found at Little St. Simon’s Island, a barrier island located along Georgia’s coast. Stunning natural beauty on this island hideaway, along with unspoiled beach front and nature excursions, make for a relaxing adventure. This enchanted island makes for a great vacation escape. As soon as you step off of the boat that takes you to the island, you step back in time to another world.
[Full Story »]
Exploring Tybee Island: Natural beauty abounds along Georgia’s coast
Watching 3-year-old Grayson splash around in the ocean laughing with delight, while his 9-year-old brother Jake rides the waves on his “boogie board.”
I usually read while enjoying time on the beach. On a recent trip to Tybee Island, I packed my usual bag of books but I didn’t open any of them. Instead, I watched my two nephews enjoy the beach. It’s hard to describe the peace and joy you get from watching children at play.
Unspoiled beaches on Tybee Island go on for as far as the eye can see and provide a perfect place for sunning, splashing in the waves, building sand castles, searching for seashells, strolling and swimming.
For a relaxing get-away, forget about the congested traffic and tacky souvenir shops found at most beach destinations and escape to Tybee Island along Georgia’s coast. It’s an island oasis where you can enjoy nature at its best.
Tybee Island is an affordable destination that is perfect for families or couples or for a friend get-away. As soon as you cross over the bridge onto Tybee Island, your worries will wash away. Tybee Island has miles of beach with plenty of accommodation choices.
Tybee Vacation Rentals offers over 160 homes, cottages and condos in all locations and budgets. We stayed at Kitty’s Cottage, a delightful cottage a short walk from the beach. We loved the huge outdoor shower where we could wash off after a day at the beach. The large back yard is great for spending time together in the evenings after a day of exploring the island. The cottage has two bedrooms and two baths and sleeps seven.
Several restaurants are within walking distance of the cottage, including MacElwee’s Seafood which is next door and offers lots of fresh seafood dishes. Also located within walking distance is Sundae Café, which has wonderful dishes, including a fried green tomato salad and ahi tuna salad. Sundae Café also has some decadent desserts that make for a great end to your meal.
During your stay on the island, be sure to visit the lighthouse. It dates back to 1773 and has been restored. Other historical stops include Fort Pulaski National Monument and Fort Screven. Outdoor activities include fishing, biking, kayaking, birding and water sports.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Upcoming events at Tybee Island include the following:
•Sept. 4, Labor Day Beach Bash. Live music and fireworks will be presented at the pier and pavilion. . Free live entertainment starts at 7 p.m. featuring the Swingin’ Medallions.
•Oct. 7-9, Pirate Fest.
•Oct. 15-16, Festival of the Arts.
•Nov. 24-Jan. 1, Tybee for the Holidays.
•Dec. 3, lights on for Tybee.
•Dec. 4, holiday parade.
•Dec .31, New Year’s Eve fireworks.
•Jan. 1, Tybee Polar Bear Plunge.
For more information on Tybee Vacation Rentals, go to www.tybeevacationrentals.com or call 912-786-5853.
For more information on visiting Tybee Island, go to www.tybeevisit.com or call 1-800-868-2322.
I usually read while enjoying time on the beach. On a recent trip to Tybee Island, I packed my usual bag of books but I didn’t open any of them. Instead, I watched my two nephews enjoy the beach. It’s hard to describe the peace and joy you get from watching children at play.
Unspoiled beaches on Tybee Island go on for as far as the eye can see and provide a perfect place for sunning, splashing in the waves, building sand castles, searching for seashells, strolling and swimming.
For a relaxing get-away, forget about the congested traffic and tacky souvenir shops found at most beach destinations and escape to Tybee Island along Georgia’s coast. It’s an island oasis where you can enjoy nature at its best.
Tybee Island is an affordable destination that is perfect for families or couples or for a friend get-away. As soon as you cross over the bridge onto Tybee Island, your worries will wash away. Tybee Island has miles of beach with plenty of accommodation choices.
Tybee Vacation Rentals offers over 160 homes, cottages and condos in all locations and budgets. We stayed at Kitty’s Cottage, a delightful cottage a short walk from the beach. We loved the huge outdoor shower where we could wash off after a day at the beach. The large back yard is great for spending time together in the evenings after a day of exploring the island. The cottage has two bedrooms and two baths and sleeps seven.
Several restaurants are within walking distance of the cottage, including MacElwee’s Seafood which is next door and offers lots of fresh seafood dishes. Also located within walking distance is Sundae Café, which has wonderful dishes, including a fried green tomato salad and ahi tuna salad. Sundae Café also has some decadent desserts that make for a great end to your meal.
During your stay on the island, be sure to visit the lighthouse. It dates back to 1773 and has been restored. Other historical stops include Fort Pulaski National Monument and Fort Screven. Outdoor activities include fishing, biking, kayaking, birding and water sports.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Upcoming events at Tybee Island include the following:
•Sept. 4, Labor Day Beach Bash. Live music and fireworks will be presented at the pier and pavilion. . Free live entertainment starts at 7 p.m. featuring the Swingin’ Medallions.
•Oct. 7-9, Pirate Fest.
•Oct. 15-16, Festival of the Arts.
•Nov. 24-Jan. 1, Tybee for the Holidays.
•Dec. 3, lights on for Tybee.
•Dec. 4, holiday parade.
•Dec .31, New Year’s Eve fireworks.
•Jan. 1, Tybee Polar Bear Plunge.
For more information on Tybee Vacation Rentals, go to www.tybeevacationrentals.com or call 912-786-5853.
For more information on visiting Tybee Island, go to www.tybeevisit.com or call 1-800-868-2322.
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 »]
‘Fiddler on the Roof’ to be presented July 19-24
“Fiddler on the Roof” will be presented at the Fox Theatre July 19-24.
Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com or www.theaterofthestars.com.
Theater of the Stars is presenting, “Fiddler on the Roof,” the Tony Award® winning musical that has captured the hearts of people all over the world with its universal appeal. Theater of the Stars is not only presenting the musical but is also producing the show with professional actors as well as 16 local youth performers.
“Fiddler on the Roof” is a tale of love and laughter, devotion and defiance...and changing traditions. Tevye, a humble milkman from the Russian village of Anatevka, is wrestling with the new customs of a younger generation. His struggle is punctuated by an unforgettable score that weaves the haunting strains of “Sunrise, Sunset” and the rousing “If I Were A Rich Man” with the exuberant “Matchmaker, Matchmaker” and triumphant “Tradition.” When his daughters choose suitors who defy his idea of a proper match, Tevye comes to realize, through a series of incidents that are at once comic and bittersweet, that his children will begin traditions of their own.
Tom Alan Robbins portrays Tevye. Mr. Robbins’ many credits include creating the role of Pumbaa in “The Lion King” on Broadway and playing Thenarier in the First National Tour of “Les Miserables.” Susan Cella returns to the role of Golde after appearing opposite Theodore Bikel, Topol, and Harvey Fierstein in the Broadway production. Ms. Cella and Mr. Robbins create one of the most poignant moments in the show as their characters struggle through the question “Do You Love Me” as the world around them changes.
This Atlanta engagement of “Fiddler on the Roof” is being produced by Christopher Manos and directed and choreographed by Norb Joerder. Joey Chancey is the musical director and conductor.
Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com or www.theaterofthestars.com.
Theater of the Stars is presenting, “Fiddler on the Roof,” the Tony Award® winning musical that has captured the hearts of people all over the world with its universal appeal. Theater of the Stars is not only presenting the musical but is also producing the show with professional actors as well as 16 local youth performers.
“Fiddler on the Roof” is a tale of love and laughter, devotion and defiance...and changing traditions. Tevye, a humble milkman from the Russian village of Anatevka, is wrestling with the new customs of a younger generation. His struggle is punctuated by an unforgettable score that weaves the haunting strains of “Sunrise, Sunset” and the rousing “If I Were A Rich Man” with the exuberant “Matchmaker, Matchmaker” and triumphant “Tradition.” When his daughters choose suitors who defy his idea of a proper match, Tevye comes to realize, through a series of incidents that are at once comic and bittersweet, that his children will begin traditions of their own.
Tom Alan Robbins portrays Tevye. Mr. Robbins’ many credits include creating the role of Pumbaa in “The Lion King” on Broadway and playing Thenarier in the First National Tour of “Les Miserables.” Susan Cella returns to the role of Golde after appearing opposite Theodore Bikel, Topol, and Harvey Fierstein in the Broadway production. Ms. Cella and Mr. Robbins create one of the most poignant moments in the show as their characters struggle through the question “Do You Love Me” as the world around them changes.
This Atlanta engagement of “Fiddler on the Roof” is being produced by Christopher Manos and directed and choreographed by Norb Joerder. Joey Chancey is the musical director and conductor.
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.
‘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 »]
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 »]
Day five in London
By Friday, we were struggling to get up at seven a.m. But once we got up, we were ready to go! We took the underground to get to our scheduled tour of the Globe Theatre. It took us a while to get there because everyone's feet were killing them. Once we got there, it was very interesting to see where they saw plays a long time ago. The theatre had burnt down and been rebuilt, but we could not tell. It was interesting to see the differences from the National Theatre of the day before, that was entirely inside, and the Globe, which is open air, but has walls.
After we finished our tour we went to a classroom and had a class about Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet and Hamlet. We took turns reading a small portion of the play out loud and the tour guide, who was also a Shakespearean actor from the Globe, explained each piece line by line what everything meant. We were glad he explained it so we could better understand what it was saying. After we understood what the Romeo and Juliet play was really saying, our guide had two people go to the front of the room and act it out. This was hilarious, since our Juliet was a bit shy and didn't want our Romeo near her. When the class was over, we all went to lunch.
Our group split up; half went to a Pizzeria restaurant, and the other half went to a restaurant called The Real Greek. Since some of us were all for trying new things in London, we went to The Real Greek restaurant. It was very good. We all ordered something and then shared so we could try a little bit of everyone’s. We had octopus, lamb, stuffed grape leaves, meatballs, and pasta. They were all very interesting and some things tasted better than others, but some said this was their very favorite meal of all in London.
After lunch, we all went on a London Literary Walking Tour. It was very interesting learning about where Shakespeare got his family coat of arms, and where other authors lived or wrote, although we were all so tired of walking. Our tour guide, Keith (the same guide from the first day), did a good job of holding our attention since we were all distracted by our tiredness and sore feet.
After our tour, we had a little free time to shop and then we went to supper. We ate at a place called Mother Mash. We were served sausages on mashed potatoes with gravy. And for dessert, we had vanilla ice cream. This was one of the closest meals we ate that was food we are used to. Several people in our group ordered extra helpings of the mashed potatoes.
After supper, we headed back to the hotel to get packed up and prepared to leave the next morning. Some of the group had to get up extra early because they were on the first flight out. I think we all enjoyed ourselves, but we are all very happy to be back home.
After we finished our tour we went to a classroom and had a class about Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet and Hamlet. We took turns reading a small portion of the play out loud and the tour guide, who was also a Shakespearean actor from the Globe, explained each piece line by line what everything meant. We were glad he explained it so we could better understand what it was saying. After we understood what the Romeo and Juliet play was really saying, our guide had two people go to the front of the room and act it out. This was hilarious, since our Juliet was a bit shy and didn't want our Romeo near her. When the class was over, we all went to lunch.
Our group split up; half went to a Pizzeria restaurant, and the other half went to a restaurant called The Real Greek. Since some of us were all for trying new things in London, we went to The Real Greek restaurant. It was very good. We all ordered something and then shared so we could try a little bit of everyone’s. We had octopus, lamb, stuffed grape leaves, meatballs, and pasta. They were all very interesting and some things tasted better than others, but some said this was their very favorite meal of all in London.
After lunch, we all went on a London Literary Walking Tour. It was very interesting learning about where Shakespeare got his family coat of arms, and where other authors lived or wrote, although we were all so tired of walking. Our tour guide, Keith (the same guide from the first day), did a good job of holding our attention since we were all distracted by our tiredness and sore feet.
After our tour, we had a little free time to shop and then we went to supper. We ate at a place called Mother Mash. We were served sausages on mashed potatoes with gravy. And for dessert, we had vanilla ice cream. This was one of the closest meals we ate that was food we are used to. Several people in our group ordered extra helpings of the mashed potatoes.
After supper, we headed back to the hotel to get packed up and prepared to leave the next morning. Some of the group had to get up extra early because they were on the first flight out. I think we all enjoyed ourselves, but we are all very happy to be back home.
Day Four in London: Tower of London, National History Museum among stops
The fourth day in London for a group of Banks County High School students was a free day and they spent a lot of time walking around the city and rode on the underground train.
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