SPRING FLING
WHERE: Mistletoe State Park, 3725 Mistletoe Road, Appling
WHEN: 1-6 p.m. Saturday
MORE INFO: Guests can participate in an introduction to geocaching, learn about animal rehabilitation, see a live birds of prey program and participate in camp cooking. Other activities include interpretive hayrides, spring crafts, lawn games, face painting, cakewalk, outdoor exhibits, wildlife trailer and more. Cost is $10 per vehicle. Call (706) 541-0321 or go to www.gastateparks.org.
THS SENIOR HONORS NIGHT
WHERE: Thomson High auditorium
WHEN: 7 p.m. May 2
MORE INFO: Thomson High School will salute the Class of 2011 at its annual Senior Honors Night program. A reception for students and parents will precede the ceremony at 6:30 p.m. in the mall area.
THS TO ADMINISTER TEST
WHERE: Thomson High School
WHEN: During regularly scheduled class periods May 2-6
MORE INFO: The Georgia End-of-Course Tests comprise 15 percent of a student's second-semester grade in: Mathematics I, Mathematics II, American literature and composition, ninth-grade literature and composition, biology, physical science, U.S. history and economics. Study guides and review materials are available on the test preparation link on the Thomson High School Web site (www.mcduffie.k12.ga.us/ThomsonHigh.cfm). Call (706) 986-4200.
SHEPEARD COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVEs
WHERE: Augusta Tech, Thomson Campus, 388 Tech Drive
WHEN: 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. May 3
WHERE: Dearing Mayfest, 4683 Augusta Hwy., Dearing
WHEN: 8:30 a.m. -- 2 p.m. May 7
PLANT SWAP AND SALE
WHERE: Pendleton King Park Franke Pavilion
WHEN: 9 a.m. -- 1 p.m. May 7
MORE INFO: This free event will have a huge variety of plants, herbs, shrubs and native plants to purchase at reasonable prices. Master gardeners will answer questions and provide information. Refreshments will be available to purchase. Come early for best selection and a great morning of garden shopping.
RELAY FOR LIFE GOLF TOURNAMENT
WHERE: Gordon Lakes Golf Courses, Fort Gordon
WHEN: 12:30 p.m. May 9
MORE INFO: Registration will begin at 11 a.m. for the third annual East Georgia Classic. Entry fee is $75 per player for a four-player team. Call Gary Goodwin at (706) 595-2562 or Doug Dent at (706) 597-2570.
SCV Meeting
WHERE: The Sons of Confederate Veterans T.J. Hamilton Camp at Ryan's in Thomson
WHEN: May 12
MORE INFO: Dinner will be 6:30-7:30 p.m. and the meeting will be 7:30-8:30. E-mail tjhamiltoncamp@gmail.com.
RELAY FOR LIFE DESSERT AUCTION
WHERE: www.sweetblessingsconfections.com
WHEN: each Wednesday through Saturday
MORE INFO: Each week a different cake and candy auction will be held. Just go to the site and make your bid. There is a $10 minimum bid for the cake or candy and a $7 minimum bid for the cookies. Every cent above that goes straight to Relay for Life. Winners are contacted by e-mail and phone, and the product is delivered on Saturday.
RELAY FOR LIFE ONLINE AUCTIONS
WHERE: www.facebook.com/tlcrelay
WHEN: Each week until relay
MORE INFO: Held by the TLC Weight Loss Center's Relay for Life team. Information and bidding instructions about the products available each week will be located under the photo section of the page. Call (706) 986-5174.
MUSIC IN THE PARK
WHERE: Mitchell Depot
WHEN: Every first Saturday April through October
MORE INFO: Bluegrass, country and gospel music, hamburgers, hotdogs and soft drinks. Donations accepted. Bring your lawn chairs n blankets. There is a playground for the kids. Free parking available.
DEARING MAYFEST FESTIVAL
WHERE: Dearing CSRA RESA office, Augusta Highway
WHEN: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 7
MORE INFO: There will be a parade, crafts, prize give aways, a burger battle and rides for the kids. Go to dearingmayfest.org for more information.
PETTIS FAMILY REUNION DINNER
WHERE: Sweetwater Park Activity Center
WHEN: 5 p.m. July 2
MORE INFO: If you are related to Eddie Pettis Sr. or Myra Pettis please contact Lisa Pettis for more information before April 30 at (706) 627-2368. Cost is $10.
THS BULLDOG DIAMOND CLUB MEMBERSHIPS
WHERE: Thomson High School
WHEN: now
MORE INFO: The Thomson High School Bulldog Diamond Club memberships are now available along with season passes. For memberships and tickets please call Bubba Grimaud (706) 595-1720 or Judy Wood (706) 595-0179. See you at the ballgame!
SONS OF CONFEDERATE VETERANS
MORE INFO: The Sons of Confederate Veterans, a heritage, history and honor society and the nation's largest Southern heritage organization, is seeking to organize a chapter in Thomson/McDuffie County. Those interested in such an endeavor should contact Georgia Division 5th Brigade Commander Michael Mull at fifthbrigade2004@yahoo.com or at (912) 618-3613.
KARATE AT THE FAMILY Y
WHERE: Thomson Family Y
WHEN: Twice a week per month
MORE INFO: Offered to all skill levels ages 6 and up. Fee: $40 per month for members; $60 per month for non-members. Discount for additional siblings. Register at any Family Y location or online at www.thefamilyy.org. Financial assistance is available for all Family Y programs.
ART CLASSES AT THE FAMILY Y
WHERE: Thomson Family Y
WHEN: Twice a week per month
MORE INFO: Offered to all skill levels ages pre-K through eighth grade. Fee: $40 per month for members; $60 per month for non-members. Discount for additional siblings. Register at any Family Y location or online at www.thefamilyy.org. Financial assistance is available for all Family Y programs.
GYMNASTICS AT THE FAMILY Y
WHERE: Thomson Family Y
WHEN: Twice a week per month
MORE INFO: Offered to all skill levels ages pre-K and up. Fee: $40 per month for members; $60 per month for non-members. Discount for additional siblings. Register at any Family Y location or online at www.thefamilyy.org. Financial assistance is available for all Family Y programs.
DROP AND SHOP
WHERE: Thomson Family Y
WHEN: 8:30-11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday
MORE INFO: Take the morning to go shopping, hang out with friends or just relax alone. Open to ages 6 months -- 12 years. Cost is $15 per child. Discount for additional siblings. To register, visit any Family Y location or online at www.thefamilyy.org. Financial assistance is available for all Family Y programs.
ONE STOP MAY BE ABLE TO HELP YOU
WHERE: East Central Georgia Consortium One Stop
WHEN: now
MORE INFO: Did you know that more than 25,000 jobs will be opening for the heavy construction industry throughout the state? Did you know an experienced construction laborer can earn $20 per hour? Did you know that you may qualify to be trained for this great career? If you are unemployed, willing to travel and Georgia Work Ready Certified then contact the local One Stop for more information at (706) 595-8941. The One Stop has placed over 45 people in jobs related to this industry after training. Come get your training today.
McDUFFIE COUNTY EVENING SCHOOL CREDIT RECOVERY
WHERE: Thomson High
WHEN: 3:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays
MORE INFO: This option is for Thomson High School students who have previously failed a required course for graduation. All courses are computer-based, self-paced, and aligned with the Georgia Performance Standards. The cost for each course is $50 per half-unit attempted, and students may register in the guidance office. A student is not permitted to leave early unless a parent or guardian comes to sign him/her out. Contact the guidance department at (706) 986-4222.
GET A BURN PERMIT
WHERE: By Calling 1-877-652-2876
WHEN: Always get a burn permit, it's the law
MORE INFO: Breezy, warm, spring days are perfect for enjoying the outdoors, but they're perfect, too, for wildfires. To prevent the spread of wildfires, the Georgia Forestry Commission is urging residents to take extra precautions when burning yard debris, using an outdoor grill or enjoying campfires. If you're not sure when to get a permit just call 1-877-OK2-burn or log ontoGaTrees.org.
COOKBOOK SALE
WHERE: J.A. Maxwell front office
WHEN: Until sold out
MORE INFO: The school is selling a cookbook of the staff's favorite recipes. The laminate-covered, spiral-bound cookbook is on sale for $8.50. Contact Judith Hodges at (706) 986-4800
HOMECOMING
WHERE: Wrightsboro Church
WHEN: 11 a.m. May 1
MORE INFO: Lewis and Joanne Smith will be the speakers for the day. They are members of the Foundation, and Lewis is a renowned history buff. Each family provides a picnic basket and tea for the popular dinner on the grounds.
THE TRUTH ABOUT GANGS AND HOW TO REACH THEM
WHERE: East Central Georgia Cosortium Inc. -- One Stop
WHEN: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. today
MORE INFO: With lunch on your own. RSVP Carrie Edwards by e-mail cedwards@classicsouth.net or call (706) 595-8941, Ext.105. Seating is limited.
VENDORS AND CRAFTERS WANTED
WHERE: Downtown Thomson
WHEN: Saturday
MORE INFO: Annual car show held from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call (706) 597-1000
TRI-COUNTY RETIRED EDUCATORS MEETING
WHERE: Miss Jane's Restaurant, Warrenton
WHEN: 10:30 a.m. May 5
MORE INFO: This will be a business meeting and the final one for 2010-2011.
See more, Page 2A
SPRING FLING
WHERE: Mistletoe State Park, 3725 Mistletoe Road, Appling
WHEN: 1-6 p.m. Saturday
MORE INFO: Guests can participate in an introduction to geocaching, learn about animal rehabilitation, see a live birds of prey program and participate in camp cooking. Other activities include interpretive hayrides, spring crafts, lawn games, face painting, cakewalk, outdoor exhibits, wildlife trailer and more. Cost is $10 per vehicle. Call (706) 541-0321 or go to www.gastateparks.org.
THS SENIOR HONORS NIGHT
WHERE: Thomson High auditorium
WHEN: 7 p.m. May 2
MORE INFO: Thomson High School will salute the Class of 2011 at its annual Senior Honors Night program. A reception for students and parents will precede the ceremony at 6:30 p.m. in the mall area.
THS TO ADMINISTER TEST
WHERE: Thomson High School
WHEN: During regularly scheduled class periods May 2-6
MORE INFO: The Georgia End-of-Course Tests comprise 15 percent of a student's second-semester grade in: Mathematics I, Mathematics II, American literature and composition, ninth-grade literature and composition, biology, physical science, U.S. history and economics. Study guides and review materials are available on the test preparation link on the Thomson High School Web sit (www.mcduffie.k12.ga.us/ThomsonHigh.cfm). Call (706) 986-4200.
SHEPEARD COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVEs
WHERE: Augusta Tech, Thomson Campus, 388 Tech Drive
WHEN: 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. May 3
WHERE: Dearing Mayfest, 4683 Augusta Hwy., Dearing
WHEN: 8:30 a.m. -- 2 p.m. May 7
PLANT SWAP AND SALE
WHERE: Pendleton King Park Franke Pavilion
WHEN: 9 a.m. -- 1 p.m. May 7
MORE INFO: This free event will have a huge variety of plants, herbs, shrubs and native plants to purchase at reasonable prices. Master gardeners will answer questions and provide information. Refreshments will be available to purchase. Come early for best selection and a great morning of garden shopping.
RELAY FOR LIFE GOLF TOURNAMENT
WHERE: Gordon Lakes Golf Courses, Fort Gordon
WHEN: 12:30 p.m. May 9
MORE INFO: Registration will begin at 11 a.m. for the third annual East Georgia Classic. Entry fee is $75 per player for a four-player team. Call Gary Goodwin at (706) 595-2562 or Doug Dent at (706) 597-2570.
SCV Meeting
WHERE: The Sons of Confederate Veterans T.J. Hamilton Camp at Ryan's in Thomson
WHEN: May 12
MORE INFO: Dinner will be 6:30-7:30 p.m. and the meeting will be 7:30-8:30. E-mail tjhamiltoncamp@gmail.com.
RELAY FOR LIFE DESSERT AUCTION
WHERE: www.sweetblessingsconfections.com
WHEN: each Wednesday through Saturday
MORE INFO: Each week a different cake and candy auction will be held. Just go to the site and make your bid. There is a $10 minimum bid for the cake or candy and a $7 minimum bid for the cookies. Every cent above that goes straight to Relay for Life. Winners are contacted by e-mail and phone, and the product is delivered on Saturday.
RELAY FOR LIFE ONLINE AUCTIONS
WHERE: www.facebook.com/tlcrelay
WHEN: Each week until relay
MORE INFO: Held by the TLC Weight Loss Center's Relay for Life team. Information and bidding instructions about the products available each week will be located under the photo section of the page. Call (706) 986-5174.
MUSIC IN THE PARK
WHERE: Mitchell Depot
WHEN: Every first Saturday April through October
MORE INFO: Bluegrass, country and gospel music, hamburgers, hotdogs and soft drinks. Donations accepted. Bring your lawn chairs n blankets. There is a playground for the kids. Free parking available.
DEARING MAYFEST FESTIVAL
WHERE: Dearing CSRA RESA office, Augusta Highway
WHEN: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 7
MORE INFO: There will be a parade, crafts, prize give aways, a burger battle and rides for the kids. Go to dearingmayfest.org for more information.
PETTIS FAMILY REUNION DINNER
WHERE: Sweetwater Park Activity Center
WHEN: 5 p.m. July 2
MORE INFO: If you are related to Eddie Pettis Sr. or Myra Pettis please contact Lisa Pettis for more information before April 30 at (706) 627-2368. Cost is $10.
THS BULLDOG DIAMOND CLUB MEMBERSHIPS
WHERE: Thomson High School
WHEN: now
MORE INFO: The Thomson High School Bulldog Diamond Club memberships are now available along with season passes. For memberships and tickets please call Bubba Grimaud (706) 595-1720 or Judy Wood (706) 595-0179. See you at the ballgame!
SONS OF CONFEDERATE VETERANS
MORE INFO: The Sons of Confederate Veterans, a heritage, history and honor society and the nation's largest Southern heritage organization, is seeking to organize a chapter in Thomson/McDuffie County. Those interested in such an endeavor should contact Georgia Division 5th Brigade Commander Michael Mull at fifthbrigade2004@yahoo.com or at (912) 618-3613.
KARATE AT THE FAMILY Y
WHERE: Thomson Family Y
WHEN: Twice a week per month
MORE INFO: Offered to all skill levels ages 6 and up. Fee: $40 per month for members; $60 per month for non-members. Discount for additional siblings. Register at any Family Y location or online at www.thefamilyy.org. Financial assistance is available for all Family Y programs.
ART CLASSES AT THE FAMILY Y
WHERE: Thomson Family Y
WHEN: Twice a week per month
MORE INFO: Offered to all skill levels ages pre-K through eighth grade. Fee: $40 per month for members; $60 per month for non-members. Discount for additional siblings. Register at any Family Y location or online at www.thefamilyy.org. Financial assistance is available for all Family Y programs.
GYMNASTICS AT THE FAMILY Y
WHERE: Thomson Family Y
WHEN: Twice a week per month
MORE INFO: Offered to all skill levels ages pre-K and up. Fee: $40 per month for members; $60 per month for non-members. Discount for additional siblings. Register at any Family Y location or online at www.thefamilyy.org. Financial assistance is available for all Family Y programs.
DROP AND SHOP
WHERE: Thomson Family Y
WHEN: 8:30-11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday
MORE INFO: Take the morning to go shopping, hang out with friends or just relax alone. Open to ages 6 months -- 12 years. Cost is $15 per child. Discount for additional siblings. To register, visit any Family Y location or online at www.thefamilyy.org. Financial assistance is available for all Family Y programs.
ONE STOP MAY BE ABLE TO HELP YOU
WHERE: East Central Georgia Consortium One Stop
WHEN: now
MORE INFO: Did you know that more than 25,000 jobs will be opening for the heavy construction industry throughout the state? Did you know an experienced construction laborer can earn $20 per hour? Did you know that you may qualify to be trained for this great career? If you are unemployed, willing to travel and Georgia Work Ready Certified then contact the local One Stop for more information at (706) 595-8941. The One Stop has placed over 45 people in jobs related to this industry after training. Come get your training today.
McDUFFIE COUNTY EVENING SCHOOL CREDIT RECOVERY
WHERE: Thomson High
WHEN: 3:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays
MORE INFO: This option is for Thomson High School students who have previously failed a required course for graduation. All courses are computer-based, self-paced, and aligned with the Georgia Performance Standards. The cost for each course is $50 per half-unit attempted, and students may register in the guidance office. A student is not permitted to leave early unless a parent or guardian comes to sign him/her out. Contact the guidance department at (706) 986-4222.
GET A BURN PERMIT
WHERE: By Calling 1-877-652-2876
WHEN: Always get a burn permit, it's the law
MORE INFO: Breezy, warm, spring days are perfect for enjoying the outdoors, but they're perfect, too, for wildfires. To prevent the spread of wildfires, the Georgia Forestry Commission is urging residents to take extra precautions when burning yard debris, using an outdoor grill or enjoying campfires. If you're not sure when to get a permit just call 1-877-OK2-burn or log ontoGaTrees.org.
