by Rebecca Hightower
The University of West Georgia expresses its gratitude to the service and dedication to all those who have served in uniform and encourages you to be safe as you enjoy the long holiday weekend. UWG will be flying flags at half-staff throughout the holiday weekend to honor those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.
The American Automobile Association (AAA) predicts that 33 million Americans will travel the roadways this holiday weekend, making this the most traveled Memorial Day in a decade. For those wishing to avoid the traffic and stay local, there are a number of community events commemorating the men and women of the armed forces who have sacrificed their lives as well as multiple events to kick off the unofficial start of summer listed below:
Honoring America’s Fallen Heros
Memorial Day Program at the Carroll County Veterans Memorial Park
The Carroll County Veterans Memorial Park Association will be hosting a Memorial Day ceremony on May 23, featuring music by the Carroll County Wind ensemble, a laying of the wreath by the Carrollton High School J.R.O.T.C., and a rifle squad presented by the American Legion Post 143. The Keynote speaker is Carrollton Mayor Wayne Garner.
National Cemetery
For a moving tribute, join volunteers in the raising of the Avenue in the National Cemetery located in Andersonville, Ga. Volunteers honor our veterans by participating in the Flag Placement Program throughout the weekend. On Saturday morning, volunteers including scout and youth groups from across the state place flags throughout Andersonville National Cemetery. During the weekend, volunteers also assist with maintaining the gravesite flags and the annual Sunday Memorial Day Observance Program. On Tuesday, following Memorial Day, the flags are removed by volunteers. The culmination of all these activities is the Sunday afternoon Memorial Day ceremony, which takes place at the National Cemetery rostrum. The service traditionally includes a musical program, speaker and the placement of memorial wreaths. Free admission and parking. Phone: 229-924-0343, address: Andersonville National Historic Site, 496 Cemetery Rd, Andersonville, GA 31711.
Roswell Memorial Day Ceremony
Military exhibits and displays begin at 10 a.m. on May 25. The military ceremony follows at 11 a.m., and a concert on the lawn follows the ceremony. Admission is free. Phone: 770-640-3253, address: Roswell City Hall. 39 Hill St, Roswell, GA 30075.
Other Memorial Day Weekend Events
Swim Carrollton
Ready for some pool time? Visit the Spray and Splash water park at McIntosh Reserve Park. The reserve is located on 527 acres packed along the sweeping frontage of the Chattahoochee River. Or visit the Midtown Water Park, located on the corner of Leroy Childs Drive and Alabama Street, and includes kiddie slides, a 150 foot spiral speed slide, a rain tree, walrus swings, concessions stand, picnic area and more.
Holiday Gorge Floor Hike
Ready to show off all of that practice on UWG’s UREC rock climbing wall? The Holiday Gorge Floor Hike in Tallulah Gorge State Park is a 3.5 mile strenuous trek, including hiking down 531 stairs, a river crossing, jumping from rock to rock, and climbing boulders along the side of the river to Bridal Veil Falls (where you can swim). Cost is $10 per person with $5 parking. Space is limited. Please register in advance. Phone: 706-754-7891 - Address: Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr, Tallulah Falls, GA 30573.
North Georgia Zoo
The North Georgia Zoo is honoring all those who have served in the armed forces by offering free admission to all veterans and children of deployed parents. This is the zoo’s first official weekend of being open four days a week instead of two.
Memorial and Master’s Water Ski Tournament Weekend
What would the summer be without water and music? Callaway Gardens is hosting a event-filled weekend featuring the 56th Masters Water Ski & Wakeboard Tournament and a host of other attractions, including live music, the Callaway Gardens Farmers Market, beach activities, kids zones, food, and much more.
Memorial Day Duckie Race in Newnan
Not ready to jump in the water just yet? Get your rubber duck to do it for you. Participants set their lucky ducks to race down the Chattahoochee River from the Newnan North Platform to the Day Use Area boat launch of Chattahoochee Bend State Park. For a small fee, ($2-$5 per duck) you can participate in the annual event and create great memories. Phone: 770-254-7271, address: Chattahoochee Bend State Park, 425 Bobwhite Way, Newnan, GA 30263.
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Posted: May 22, 2015
