ARTS

LCS Productions will hold auditions for its "Holiday Americana" show from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 21 at the Brannon-Heard House, 111 Pilgrim Mill Road. The show will run Nov. 18-19 at the Cumming Playhouse. For more information, e-mail lipscombjeanie@gmail.com.

The Sounds of Sawnee Concert Band will be performing a free concert at 6 p.m. Aug. 22 at Poole's Mill Park. The band also will perform a free concert at 6 p.m. Aug. 28 at Lambert High. If you would like to play with this band, give us a call. For more information, e-mail soundsofsawnee@bellsouth.net or call Garth True at (770) 205-6000.

The Forsyth County Library's Cumming branch announces upcoming book discussions:
* Discussion of "The Maltese Falcon" by Dashiell Hammett, 2-3 p.m. Sept. 1
* Author Tim Drake will discuss his book, "Inherited Freedom," 6:30-8 p.m. Sept. 9
* Discussion of "The Namesake" by Jhumpa Lahiri, 2-3 p.m. Oct. 6
* Discussion of "My Sister's Keeper" by Jodi Picoult, 2-3 p.m. Nov. 3
Register early for events, space and materials are limited. The Cumming branch is at 585 Dahlonega Road. For more information, call (678) 513-9395 or go online at www.forsythpl.org.

The Bob Russell Singers are auditioning bass voices who can read music, have choral experience and want to perform with the group for a performance at Carnegie Hall on May 22. If interested, call Bob Russell for an appointment at (678) 455-6110 or e-mail bprmusic@bellsouth.net.

CHILDREN

Forsyth County Public Library presents its "Welcome Back to Books" programs. Registration is not necessary.
Little Listeners storytime -- 10:15 a.m. (ages 18 months to 3 years, with an adult)
* "Opposites Attract," Sharon Forks: Aug. 18-19; Hampton Park: Aug. 20
* "Rhyme Time," Cumming: Aug. 23; Sharon Forks: Aug. 25-26; Hampton Park: Aug. 27.
Wee Read Storytime -- 11:15 a.m. (ages 2 to 5 years, with an adult)    
* "Shopping Spree!" Sharon Forks: Aug. 18-19
* "Time to Play," Cumming: Aug. 23 (also 1:15 p.m.)
* "What's Cooking?" Sharon Forks: Aug. 25-26
* "While You Were Sleeping," Cumming: Aug. 26; Hampton Park: Aug. 27.
Ready, Set, Read! Storytime -- 1:15 p.m. (ages 4 to 6)
* "Just Wild About Jeanne Willis," Sharon Forks: Aug. 18-19; Hampton Park: Aug. 20
* "Jolly Books by Judi Barrett," Cumming: Aug. 24; Sharon Forks: Aug. 25-26; Hampton Park: Aug. 27.
For more information, call (770) 781-9840, Ext. 9364, or go online at www.forsythpl.org.

Forsyth County Schools Mentoring Program will hold training sessions from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Aug. 30 and Sept. 20 at the Board of Education Office, 1120 Dahlonega Hwy. Mentors must attend one training session, submit to a background check and commit to spending at least 30 minutes each week during school hours with an elementary, middle or alternative school student. For more information, contact Susie Brookshire at (770) 887-2461 or sbrookshire@forsyth.k12.ga.us.

DONATIONS

Loving Forsyth, a new Christian and community coalition, is seeking the following donations: gently used children's, women's and men's clothing; canned carrots, corn, green peas, spaghetti sauce, tomatoes, tomato sauce, apple sauce, chicken, beef stew, tuna, black-eyed peas and pinto beans; and large cans of apple, orange and tomato juice. Donations should be boxed or bagged, labeled "Loving Forsyth" and dropped off at any Forsyth County fire station by Aug. 18. Items will be donated to 200 local families living in poverty. For more information, call (678) 208-2000 or visit www.lovingforsyth.com.

Concord Feed the Hungry will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 26 at Concord Baptist Church, at the corner of Concord and Bannister roads. Neighbors in need are welcome.

EDUCATION

St. Brendan's Career Transition Ministry will meet at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 19 in the church's spiritual life center at 4633 Shiloh Road. The topic will be helping everyone conduct an efficient and successful job search. For more information, contact Rick Sullivan at ricksullivan319@comcast.net or (678) 947-5205.

North Lanier Baptist Church will have free English as a second language classes 6:30-8 p.m. Sept. 1 through Nov. 17, starting with a kickoff soccer cookout at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 25. Children can attend the Awana program while parents are in the class. The church is at 829 Atlanta Hwy. For more information, call (770) 781-5433 or go online at www.northlanier.org.

North Forsyth United Methodist Church will have beginner level conversational Spanish classes from 7-9 p.m. starting Oct. 7. The eight-week course is $65 and advance registration is required. For more information, call (770) 888-9898.

Lanier Tech's Adult Learning Center, Forsyth campus, has registration for the GED between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Monday-Thursday in room A250. Bring ID, a money order for $95 and allow two hours. Ages 19 and younger need additional documentation. For more information, call (770) 781-6987 or e-mail eglenn@laniertech.edu. Classes and instruction are free.

Veterans of Foreign War Post 9143 will be accepting submissions for its annual youth competitions through Nov. 1. The Patriot's Pen essay competition is for students in grades 6-8. This year's theme is "Does Patriotism Still Matter?" The Voices of Democracy is an oratorical contest for students in grades 9-12. This year's theme is "Does My Generation Have a Role in America's Future?" For more information, contact Hoyt Jordan at sherhoyt@bellsouth.net.

FUNDRAISERS

Whispering Hope, a nonprofit women's resource and pregnancy center, has reopened its Bargain Boutique thrift shop at 765 McFarland Pkwy., Suite E, at the corner of McFarland and Union Hill roads. Hours will be 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday. Volunteers and donations are welcome. For more information, contact Jackie Batson at (770) 889-8302, e-mail director@whisperinghope.org or visit www.whisperinghope.org.

A kids fall/winter consignment sale, held by Cumming First United Methodist Church, will be from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 26, 5-8 p.m. Aug. 27 and 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 28. Many items will be half-price Aug. 28. Visa and Mastercard accepted with valid photo ID. The church is at 770 Canton Hwy. For more information, call (770) 887-2900 or go online at www.cfumcconsignment.com.

Mentor Me North Georgia will hold its annual ball drop on Aug. 28. Golf balls are $5 per ball, $10 for 3 and $35 for 12. All balls sold will be dropped from a hot air balloon over a golf hole at St. Marlo Country Club. The ball that lands closest to the hole will win a one-week stay at any Wyndham Resort in the continental U.S. Tickets to the drop event, which will include a long putt contest, silent auction and balloon rides, are $30 per person or $50 per couple. Call (678) 341-8028 or e-mail steve@mentormenorthga.org to purchase golf balls or tickets.

Out of the Darkness Community Walk, sponsored by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and the Forsyth County Sheriff's Office, will be 9-11:30 a.m. Sept. 25 at Coal Mountain Park, 3560 Settingdown Road. Register online at www.outofthedarkness.org or call Karen DeLany at (770) 355-1024 for more information.

LEISURE

North Lanier Baptist Church, 829 Atlanta Hwy., will have a car show and cookout at 4 p.m. Aug. 22. It's open to all cars and trucks, and there's a $5 car registration fee. No car to show? Come and enjoy the fun, food and live music for free. For more information, call (770) 781-5433 or go online at www.northlanier.org.

Forsyth County High School Class of 1985 will have its 25th class reunion from 7 p.m. to midnight Aug. 28 at the Marriott in Alpharetta. For more information, contact Leslie Rich at (404) 384-2206 or leslierich202@gmail.com.

The Georgia Farmgirls will have a summer flea market from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 28 and Sept. 25 at the Henhouse, 7645 Bannister Road. Bring your own tables and tents and sell whatever crafts, collectibles or items you choose. Spaces are $10 each, payable on day of event. For more information, go online at www.GeorgiaFarmgirls.com, e-mail georgiafarmgirls@aol.com or call Mary Ann Witcher at (770) 845-5728.

Brookwood Farmers' Market, in the parking lot of Brookwood Elementary School at 2980 Vaughan Drive, will be open from 4-8 p.m. every Friday through Labor Day. The market will only sell products that are Georgia grown or made. Items include meat, eggs, organic produce, fresh cut flowers, artisan breads and pastries. There will also be events for kids, music and more.

The Forsyth County Farmers' Market will be open Wednesdays and Saturdays through Oct. 2 at the Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Road. It will be open from 7 a.m. until vendors sell out.

North Forsyth High School's Class of 2000 reunion will be from 6-10 p.m. Nov. 6 at Amicalola Falls Lodge. The cost is $35 per person. Send payment to North Forsyth Class 2000, c/o Keith Vickery, 1741 Upper Sassafrass Pkwy., Jasper, GA 30143. For more information, e-mail northforsythclass2000@hotmail.com.

Forsyth County Senior Services is offering the following trips:
* Biltmore Estate tour, Dec. 7-8; includes motorcoach transportation, one night lodging, three meals, admission to the Biltmore and more
* Amelia Island, St. Augustine and Jacksonville, Fla., Jan. 17-20; includes motorcoach transportation, three nights lodging, six meals, guided tours and more
* New Orleans, May 16-20; motorcoach transportation, four nights lodging, eight meals, tour of Louisiana plantation and more.
For more information, call (770) 781-2178.

Forsyth County Senior Services offers beginning computer classes for seniors. Classes last six weeks. For more information, contact Sonya Camarillo at 770-781-2178.

MEETINGS

The Forsyth County Newcomers and Women's Club will have a "Sneak a Peek into Newcomers" brunch at 10 a.m. Aug. 19 at Windermere Golf Club, 5000 Davis Love Drive. The FCNWC is a social women's club open to all women in our community. Cost to members for this brunch is $10, and potential new members are free as guests. For more information, call Mary Chatfield at (770) 887-1106 or go online at www.newcomersclubofforsyth.org. For reservations, call Kathy Rastetter at (770) 298-8659.

The Republican Women of Forsyth County will meet at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 24 at McDonald and Son Funeral Home in the community room. Speaker will be Sam Olens, candidate for attorney general. Visitors welcome. For more information, call Katie McClain at (678) 513-4634.

AARP monthly meeting will be at 11 a.m. Aug. 27 at the Golden Corral at Market Place Boulevard and Buford Dam Road. Meet and greet will be from 10:30-11 a.m. Speaker will be Forsyth County Probate Judge Lynwood Jordan Jr. Among the topics are healthcare directives, wills verses trust and asset transfer. The cost of lunch is $7.75, includes tax and tip, and it will be served at the conclusion of the meeting. Please bring your donation to the Can-A-Month Program. For more information, call Sandra Kronic at (678) 513-7223.

Faith's House will present networking meetings for single moms from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. the third Saturday of each month at Friendship Christian School, 3160 Old Atlanta Road. Meet other single moms; get resume, job, career and college assistance; and find community resources. Light lunch will be provided. For more information, visit www.faithshouseinc.org.

Toastmasters of Forsyth County fosters self-confidence and personal growth in a mutually supportive environment. Bimonthly meetings are from 6:45-8 p.m. the second and fourth Thursday at Midway United Methodist Church, 5025 Atlanta Hwy. Guests are always welcome. For more information, go online at www.forsythtoastmasters.org or call Mary or Steve Williams at (770) 887-8478.

VOLUNTEER

Literacy Forsyth is looking for volunteer tutors to work with low-level reading and non-reading adults. It provides free training and materials. For more information, call (770) 876-2011 or go online at www.literacyforsyth.com.

Forsyth County Senior Services is looking for volunteers for Alzheimer's disease respite care. The service is for those with the disease or other types of dementia. The Sunshine Club meets from 11:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Monday through Friday at Forsyth County Senior Services, 595 Dahlonega Hwy. Volunteers assist staff with activities including games, music, crafts and exercise. For more information, call Jim Yarbrough at (770) 781-2178.

Foster homes for cats and dogs are needed urgently through the Humane Society of Forsyth County No-kill Shelter. Both regular and short-term foster homes needed. For more information, contact Laurie Hutchins, foster home/adoption chairwoman at rescue@forsythpets.org or (770) 889-1365 or go online at www.forsythpets.com and click "volunteer."

Newborns in Need Cumming chapter meets from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of each month at Deer Creek Shores Presbyterian Church, 7620 Lanier Drive. Men and women who can sew, knit, crochet or just cut out and stack fabric are wanted to participate. The group makes various baby items for premature newborns and families in economic need. Donations of money or supplies are also accepted and are tax-deductible. For more information, contact Marlene Baker at (770) 781-8303.

Stitches from the Heart needs volunteers to knit, crochet or quilt blankets, little sweaters and hats for babies in need. These items are donated to hospitals all over the country. Patterns available. Donated yarn for seniors also appreciated. Call (877) 985-9212 or go online at www.stitchesfromtheheart.org.

Hands On Forsyth is seeking volunteers for its many opportunities in Forsyth County. For more information, go online at www.handsonforsyth.org or call Kerry or Sean at (770) 205-1701.

Sawnee Artists Association has its monthly meeting the fourth Monday of each month, with the social starting at 6:30 p.m. and the program starting at 7 p.m. The group meets at McDonald and Son Funeral Home in the community room at 130 Sawnee Drive in Cumming. For more information, call Connie Shriver at (678) 947-8426.

Supporting Adoption & Foster Families Together, or SAFFT, is seeking sponsorships for stones, pavers and rooms at the SAFFT Visitation and Family Support Center in Cumming. The center provides a place for children in the foster care or juvenile justice systems to safely meet with their birth families. Stones are available for $1,000, pavers for $100 and room sponsorships range from $2,500 to $10,000. For more information, contact Ashley Anderson at aanderson@safft.org or call (404) 507-2338.

The Forsyth County CERT, Community Emergency Response Team, is looking for volunteers who would like to learn how they can help the community in an emergency. Classes will be held Thursday evenings. Class participants will learn how to help themselves, their families and their communities during times of crisis. For more information, call Chuck Stoudt at (404) 520-9100 or e-mail chuckstoudt@yahoo.com.

Free community classes from 6:30-8 p.m. Wednesdays are at North Lanier Baptist Church, 829 Atlanta Hwy. Classes are scheduled conveniently at the same time as our Awana Club for children. Classes include quilting, "GriefShare," "First Place weight loss," "He Speaks to Me" and "Hope & Help for the Single Mom." For more information or to register, call (770) 781-5433 or go online at www.northlanier.org.

Venturing Crew 39 combines high adventure activities with character development and life skills for those ages 14 to 21. The outdoor group is sponsored by the Cumming Kiwanis Club. For more information, call Carol at (678) 575-4852.

The Cumming Kiwanis Club, a community service organization serving the needs of children in the community, meets at noon the first through third Wednesdays of each month and at 6 p.m. the fourth Thursday at the Kiwanis Building, 417 Pilgrim Mill Road. All meetings and events are open to the public. Join them for lunch or dinner and a variety of guest speakers each week. For more information, go online at www.cummingkiwanis.org or call (770) 713-0502.

Lanier Jaycees, the U.S. Junior Chamber Forsyth County Chapter, is an organization of motivated and ambitious young professionals who develop management and professional skills through community projects. All professionals ages 21-39 can join at noon the first Tuesday of each month at United Community Bank, 1015 Buford Hwy. For more information, call Bert Durand at (706) 974-8754.

Cumming Garden Club meets the second Tuesday of every month. The morning club meets at 10 a.m. at Cumming Baptist Church, 115 Church Street. The evening club meets at 7:30 p.m. at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 1125 Bettis Tribble Gap Road. For more information, contact Karin at (770) 887-1286 or visit cumminggardenclub.com.

Free food for those in need will be provided from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the fourth Monday of every month at Freedom Tabernacle, 2160 Freedom Pkwy.

The Place of Forsyth County provides a weekly Wednesday noon meal and a monthly senior luncheon in Forsyth County. (The luncheons supplement their surplus and food pantry.) Sponsors are needed. The organization's objective is to ensure that no one in the community goes hungry. Call Sandy at (770) 887-1098, Ext. 225, to reserve a luncheon date.

Fair Tax meetings are beginning in the area at 7 p.m. the last Monday of each month at the Golden Corral at Market Place Boulevard and Buford Dam Road. Come at 6:30 p.m. if you plan to eat. For more information, call Dave Andrews at (404) 510-2306.

Angel's Closet Inc. is a free clothing boutique for women, children and young men. It has clothes in all sizes and is open Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Angel's Closet is on the second floor of the Juvenile Justice Center at 875 Lanier 400. Volunteers and donations are needed. Appointments only, no drop-offs please. For more information, call (770) 489-8000.

Hope for the Hungry distributes food through Concord Baptist Church from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every fourth Thursday of each month in the Family Life Center. Please call the church office at (770) 887-9482 for more information.

Forsyth County Sheriff's Office Citizens' Law Enforcement Academy is a free, nine-week course that meets from 7-10 p.m. on consecutive Mondays. The academy is open to all Forsyth County residents, employees and business owners and provides students with hands-on training and law enforcement knowledge. The course is run by the Forsyth County Sheriff's Office, and all instructors in this program are Forsyth County Sheriff's Office employees. Applications can be downloaded at www.forsythsheriff.org and mailed to Deputy Courtney Spriggs, (770) 205-4547.

Forsyth-Cumming Optimist Club meetings are held at 7 a.m. on Thursdays at Northside Hospital Forsyth, Bennett Training Room, 1400 Building. Breakfast is served, and each week the group has a speaker. Also, you can help participate in the Avenue of Flags which funds the club's youth programs and scholarships. For more information, call Sandy Orr at (678) 361-0966.

Piecemakers Quilt Guild meets at 12:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 1125 Bettis Tribble Gap Road in Cumming. All interested in quilting are welcome to attend. The fourth Tuesday, the group meets at the same time and place for "sewcialbee." For more information and a gallery of quilts, go online at www.piecemakersquiltguild.org.

The Happy Knotters is a group that makes fleece blankets for newly admitted hospice patients. It meets from 9 a.m.-noon the fourth Saturday of every month. Anyone interested in fellowship, laughter and a worthy cause is invited to join. No sewing experience is necessary. Donations are also accepted to help cover expenses of materials. Contact the Rev. Kathie Stasko at (770) 887-2900, Ext. 224, or kstasko@cfumcga.com to join the group or for more information.

Cumming Sunset Quilters meets every second Thursday of the month from 7 to 9 p.m., at Northside-Forsyth Hospital (1400 Northside Drive). Everyone is welcome to come. The programs vary monthly. For more information, e-mail cummingsunsetquilters@yahoo.com.

The Forsyth Amateur Radio Technical Society meets at noon every Thursday at Lenny's Sub shop next to PetSmart. All amateur radio operators and people interested in amateur radio are invited. For information, call Jerry Adams at W4PX at (678) 831-0110.

Atlanta Woodturners Guild meets from 7-9 p.m. the third Wednesday of every month at Woodcraft Store, 1085 Holcomb Bridge Road. Call David Martin at (770) 891-1686 or visit www.atlantawoodturnersguild.org for more information.

The Forsyth County Rug Hookers meets from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. two Fridays a month at the Sharon Forks branch of the Forsyth County Public Library. Bring a lunch. For specific dates, call Elaine Zimney at (770) 781-5255.

North Georgia Homeschool Alliance invites all area homeschoolers to attend their "Thursday Live" events every fourth Thursday from 1-3 p.m. at Concord Baptist Church in Cumming. Students research the month's theme and then make presentations on stage. Membership in NGHA is free for homeschoolers. Visit www.northgeorgiahomeschool.com for more information.

North Georgia Barbershop Singers meets at 7 p.m. each Tuesday at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 1125 Tribble Gap Road in Cumming. All men who can carry a tune and like to sing are welcome to join. For more information, call Duane at (770) 889-9125.

The Sounds of Sawnee Concert Band rehearses from 7-9:30 p.m. every Monday evening at the First Baptist Church of Cumming at 1597 Sawnee Drive. Anybody with latent musical talent can join our organization of 40 active members in providing great music. Trumpets, french horns, percussion, reeds and base brass are all welcome. For more information, contact Garth at (770) 205-6000.

Chimes Choir meets at 1:30 p.m. every Wednesday at the Forsyth County Senior Center. The group will be led by Jane Marton and the only requirement is the ability to count to six. Call Chris at (770) 781-2178 for more information. 

The Forsyth Community Chorale meets at 7 p.m. Monday evenings at Music Authority in Cumming. All singers are welcome to join this non-audition chorus. The chorale is supported by concert income and member dues, which are $15 a month. Call Melissa at (770) 886-9066 for more information.

BSA Cub and Boy Scout Roundtables will be held at 7 p.m. the second Thursday of every month at First Baptist Church of Cumming on Sawnee Drive. All adult leaders and parents are invited to attend. For more information about the Etowah District Scouting programs visit www.etowah-bsa.org.

Humane Society of Forsyth County has dog and cat adoptions from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Saturday at Petco in Cumming and dog adoptions at PetSmart in Johns Creek from noon to 4 p.m. the first and third Sunday of each month. Shelter adoption hours are 1-5 p.m. seven days a week. The shelter is at 4440 Keith Bridge Road in Cumming.

Georgia Legal Services Program offers free legal help to senior citizens and low-income residents. The GLSP does not handle criminal cases. For an appointment, call (770) 535-5717 between 9 and 11 a.m. Monday through Thursday.

Chestatee Home Makers Club meets every third Wednesday of the month at the Chestatee Club House, next to Chestatee Elementary School. All new members are welcome. For more information, call Anne Jett at (770) 887-5773.

Bell Research Center has new hours, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. The research facility specializing in Southeastern history and genealogy is free to the public and located in the historic school house at 101 School St. in Cumming.

Heartland Hospice has an immediate need for "friendly visitor" volunteers and administrative or special project volunteers. Training is required and provided. Call Cheryl Burney at (770) 880-7021 for more information.

Hands On Forsyth has an ongoing list of volunteer service opportunities throughout the county. For a complete listing, go to www.handsonforsyth.org or call Kerry Rosewall at (770) 205-1701.

The Forsyth County Senior Center is currently looking for volunteers for the following programs:
* Meals on Wheels program: Routes run Monday-Friday and usually take about 2 hours. Kitchen assistance is also needed to help pack the meals.
* Friendly Visitor program is looking for volunteers to give a friendly visit to a homebound senior. The goal of this program is to decrease social isolation. Volunteers are matched with seniors having similar interests, hobbies and demographics.
* Alzheimer's Respite program runs Monday-Friday from 11:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Volunteers assist participants in a variety of activities under the direction of staff members.
* Computer instructors are needed for 1-hour classes running for six weeks.
* Piano players are needed for various programs.
For more information on any of these opportunities, call (770) 781-2178.

Forsyth County Ladies League is a group which seeks to provide social and recreational opportunities for local ladies. For more information, go to www.forsythcountyladiesleague.com.

The Forsyth County Lions Club has a new meeting place at the Golden Corral restaurant. The members will continue to meet at 7 p.m. on the first and third Tuesday of each month. For more information, call (770) 887-1609.

American Legion Post 307 and the Post Auxiliary meet on the second Monday of each month at the Georgia National Guard Armory, 429 Canton Road. Refreshments start at 6:30 p.m. and the meeting begins at 7 p.m. Veterans who served on active duty during a wartime era are eligible for membership. For more information, call (770) 781-4992 or go online at www.americanlegionpost307.org.

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post and Auxiliary 9143 meets the third Wednesday of each month at 1045 Dahlonega Hwy. Meetings begin at 7 p.m. with a complimentary meal for members. Veterans and their spouses are invited to join based on eligibility. Upcoming community projects include sending packages to troops overseas, visiting the VA Nursing Home, and supporting the VFW National Home for displaced and in-need children and women.

The Veterans Alliance is a volunteer group of local veterans that provides an honor guard for fallen veterans at funerals and other patriotic and civic functions. It represents all branches of service and provides services to all fallen veterans, whether in war or peace times. The alliance is in need of volunteers; if you're a veteran, consider joining by calling Jim Campbell at (770) 781-4354.

Toastmasters of Forsyth County wants to help you improve your communication skills. The Toastmasters group meets at 6:45 p.m. on the second and fourth Thursday of each month at the Adair Park Clubhouse. You can learn skills that will help you be a more successful in a supportive and fun environment. This is an open meeting and visitors are always welcome. For more information, visit www.forsythtoastmasters.org or call (770) 887-8478 or e-mail mrslswjr@bellsouth.net.

Sawnee-Cumming Optimist Club meetings are at 7 p.m. the first and third Thursdays of every month at Good Ol' Days Restaurant.

Cumming Civitan Club meets the first and third Thursday of each month, from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Golden Corral for lunch and a meeting. For more information or to make a reservation, contact Janice Sullivan at (770) 887-0540.

Families of Deployed Soldiers Support Group meets as needed whether it is early morning or late at night. Their resources include counselors, handy men, mechanics, plumbers, tutors, lunch groups, coffee club, babysitters and others. For more information, call Neida E. Streit at (770) 887-2900, Ext. 215, or e-mail nstreit@cfucmga.com. After the initial contact, they will be given a list of other contacts "on call" 24 hours a day.

Caregivers Support Group meets at 1:30 p.m. on the fourth Monday of the month in Davis Hall, across the parking lot from St. Clement's Episcopal Church in Canton, at 2707 Ridge Road. All persons who are in-home caregivers or have loved ones in a nursing home are invited.  There is no charge. The Caregivers Support Group is a community outreach ministry of St. Clement's Church. For more information, contact the Rev. Judith L. Kalom at (678) 230-1962 or (770) 384-8772.

Contemporary Issues Dinner Discussion Group conducts informed discussions of political, sociological and economic events occurring at local through global levels. The group meets the third Wednesday of the month at a Cumming restaurant. New participants are welcome. For more information, call (770) 781-9124.

"Grandparents Raising Grandchildren" and "Relatives Raising Nieces and Nephews" will meet from 6:30-8 p.m. the third Tuesday each month to share information and learn about benefits available to children. A supervised area is available for children during meetings and a tutor will help children with homework. A light dinner will be served. Meetings will be at the Forsyth County Senior Center, 595 Dahlonega Hwy. (next to the library). Call Julia Jessee, Kinship Care Coordinator, The Legacy Link Inc. at (770) 538-2650 for more information.

Girls on the Run Forsyth is seeking volunteers at new and established sites throughout Forsyth to run its 12-week program. Girls on the Run is a national experiential learning program for girls in grades 3 through 5. Although its perceived goal is completion of a noncompetitive 5k walk/run, in fact GOTR is as much about good health, friendship, positive body image and self-esteem as it is about running. For more information on Girls on the Run, including how to volunteer, visit www.gotrforsyth.org, or contact Cathie Brugnoli, director of Girls on the Run Forsyth, at (404) 667-4101 or info@gotrforsyth.org.

Lake Lanier Association's Shore Super Sweep is an ongoing volunteer program to clean up the shoreline of Lake Lanier while it is exposed. Due to the low water levels, large amounts of trash are exposed on the shore around the lake. The Lake Lanier Association has arranged for designated dumpsters at six sites around Lake Lanier for debris collected from the shoreline and help is needed. For more information, please call the association's special Shore Sweep phone number (678) 430-8950 or visit their website at www.lakelanier.org.

The Hiram Parks Bell Chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy meets every third Sunday from 2-4 p.m. in Cumming. For additional information, please contact Elaine Zimney at (770) 781-5255.

The Forsyth County Department of Family and Children Services is recruiting foster parents willing to assist families in crisis. We are seeking individuals willing to provide a temporary home to a child or sibling group. Call Lynn Stewart at (770) 781-6739 or visit 426 Canton Hwy. in Cumming for more information.

South Forsyth Leads Group, sponsored by the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce, meets at 11:30 a.m. on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month at the Holiday Inn Express in Johns Creek. For more information, contact Robin Grier at (770) 887-2772 or rgrier@harborfs.com.

Central Forsyth Leads Group, sponsored by the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce, meets from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesday of every month at The Columns at Pilgrim Mill on Freedom Pkwy. Contact Nancy Wright at (404) 408-0674 or NancyW@ecigroups.com for more information.

Humane Society of Forsyth County No-Kill Shelter holds pet adoptions from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturdays and 12-4 p.m. on Sundays the first and third weekend of each month at PetSmart, 1020 Market Place Blvd. in Cumming. Pets may also be adopted from 2-5 p.m. Mondays through Friday and from 12-3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday at the shelter, which is located at 4440 Keith Bridge Road. To view the dogs, cats, puppies and kittens available for adoption, or for more information, visit www.forsythpets.com.

Pray Forsyth, a group of Christian leaders in Cumming and across Forsyth County, meets twice a month for an hour of prayer for the community, its leaders and the issues that relate to the spiritual, economic and social issues of our city and county. This prayer gathering is non-denominational and open to all Christians. It takes place 11 a.m. to noon the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at the Old Schoolhouse in downtown Cumming, 251 Ingram Avenue in Cumming. For more information, call (678) 280-2882.

Duplicate Bridge will meet on Thursdays at 7 p.m., at the Forsyth Senior Center. For more information or a partner, call Barbara Pitcher at (770) 833-0878.

Forsyth County Newcomers Club is an easy way for newcomers to make new friends and get to know the area. The group then has a monthly luncheon at the Windermere Country Club on the third Thursday of each month. The Newcomer Club also offers a variety of interests groups, such as bridge, bunco, bookies, bowling, and home and garden, that meet each month. We are a friendly group and would love to meet you. For more information, contact president Diana Fournaris at (770) 844-7386 or visit www.forsythcountynewcomersclub.org.

The Place of Forsyth County Inc. is a participating Atlanta Food Bank member. They are an approved site in Forsyth County to accept excess fresh produce. All donations are appreciated and will be distributed through their Surplus Food Room. They accept donations Monday through Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, call (770) 887-1098.

Northside Hospital-Forsyth Auxiliary renders service to the patients of Northside Hospital-Forsyth, the residents of Forsyth County and the staff of the hospital through ways approved by the governing board of the hospital. To volunteer for this important community service, call (770) 844-3314 or (770) 844-3430 for an application.

International Christian Chamber of Commerce meets for lunch at Tams Backstage in Cumming on the first Thursday of each month at noon. The ICCC is a non-denominational group that educates, equips and networks Christian business leaders. For more information, call Kimberly at (678) 280-2882.

The Christian Business Women's Fellowship meets on Thursday mornings at 8 a.m. in South Forsyth. They network Christian business women for the purpose of advancing the kingdom and transforming lives. For more information, call Kimberly at (678) 939-1301.

MOMS Club of Cumming North is a local chapter of an international nonprofit organization for at-home mothers, including those who have home-based businesses and those who work part time. Open to mothers of all ages in the north Cumming area, the group's activities include playgroups, field trips and special activities for mothers and their children. The MOMS Club also performs service projects. For more information about MOMS Club, please contact momscummingnorth@yahoo.com or visit www.momsclub.org.

Forsyth Network for Business Professionals meets every Thursday, from 12:15 p.m. to 1:15 p.m., at Indigo Joe's. Membership is open to Cumming and North metro Atlanta residents. For more information, contact Fred Burak at (678) 677-0815 or burak@bellsouth.net.

Forsyth Senior Services Providers' Network meets on the third Thursday of the month, from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Visitors are welcome. For more information, call Nancy Votta at (404) 386-4445.

NEGA Chapter of the American Red Cross will hold their annual free adult CPR Saturday. Sessions are at 9 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. For more information, call 1-800-282-1722, Ext. 29 and state the session time and Forsyth/Cumming location.

Stitches from the Heart needs volunteers to knit, crochet or quilt blankets, little sweaters, and hats for babies in need. They are donated to 570 hospitals all over the country. Patterns are available. Donated yarn is desperately needed for seniors and children's knitting programs. For more information, contact Kathy Silverton at (866) 472-6903 or StitchFromHeart@aol.com.

Dinner discussion group is forming to hold monthly meetings at local restaurants. Informed discussions of political, sociological, and economic events occurring at local through global levels will embrace a wide range of interests and perspectives. For more information, call (770) 781-9124.

The Forsyth County Child Advocacy Center is in need of toys for its backpack program. The program supplies backpacks filled with personal supplies and gifts to children who have been removed from their home situations. They are especially in need of toys for boys ages 10 to 16 and teen girls. Some suggestions are electronic handheld game devices, CD players, and gift cards. For more information, contact Sherry at (678) 208-1908 or sherryfccac@bellsouth.net.

Central Forsyth Leads Group meets the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month from 11:30 a.m. to
1 p.m. at Stars and Strikes Entertainment Center. Membership is open to anyone building business relationships in Forsyth County. For additional information, call Mark Thompson at (678) 873-6458 or e-mail mdt1969@bellsouth.net.

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post and Auxiliary meet the third Wednesday of every month (except December), at 1045 Dahlonega Hwy. in Cumming. The meetings begin with a complimentary meal for members. Veterans and spouses are invited to join, based on eligibility.

Diabetes Support Group will have a meeting on the second Tuesday of each month, at 10 a.m., in the Forsyth County Health Department Conference Room. For more information, call (770) 781-6918.

Happy Tails Pet Therapyis recruiting new volunteers. Volunteers and their pet dogs, cats or rabbits are needed to help brighten days at more than 140 metro Atlanta health care facilities, social agencies and special needs programs. Volunteers must be 18 or older. Monthly orientation is held monthly on a Thursday evening or a Saturday morning, lasts one hour, and no reservations required. Sorry, pets are not permitted at orientation. Visit HappyTailsPets.org or call (770) 740-8211 for more information.

Sawnee Mountain Kennel Club holds monthly meetings on the second Wednesday of each month, at 7:30 p.m., in the Kiwanis Meeting Room (417 Pilgrim Mill Road in Cumming). The public is invited to attend. There is a wide range of speakers regarding a wide range of topics of interest to dog lovers. For more information, call Kay Allred at (678) 474-2115 or visit www.smkcga.com.

Sons of the American Revolution Piedmont Chapter meets monthly on the third Saturday, at 8 a.m., at the Doubletree Hotel (1075 Holcombe Bridge Road in Roswell). Men and boys who are interested in documenting their relationship to the American Revolutionary ancestors and in joining an active group with similar interest are encouraged to contact the Chapter Registrar, Bob Sapp, at (770) 971-0189. The Piedmont Chapter serves the communities of the northern suburbs of Atlanta, including Cobb, Forsyth, Cherokee, and North Fulton Counties. Activities include a variety of programs to promote the patriotic, educational, and historical interests resulting from the American Revolution.

The Forsyth County Child Advocacy Center is in need of toys for the play area, which is used by children brought to the Center to disclose details of an abuse experience. The toy area serves to help the child decompress and relax. They need toys for all ages, especially ages 4 to 10. For more information, contact Sherry Sabine at (678) 208-1908 and sherryfccac@bellsouth.net.

Forsyth County Parks and Recreation Department Classes will have yoga classes at Sawnee Mountain Park, on Tuesdays, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., and on Wednesdays, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Cardio Kickboxing will be offered at Sharon Springs Park, on Tuesdays, from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. For more information, call (770) 781-2215 or visit www.forsythco.com.

Forgotten Teens Christmas Program is sponsored by Crossroads Foundation Inc., a nonprofit organization for at-risk teens ages 12 to 17. The public can help by sponsoring a teenager's wish list, donating money or gift cards, buying a few items on a list for a teen, or helping find sponsors for the teens. For more information or to become involved, contact Becki Jo Sowers at (770) 843-8001 or visit www.crossroadsfoundation.net.

Humane Society of Forsyth County Pet Adoption Days are held the first and third Sunday of each month from noon to 3 p.m., at PetSmart (1020 Market Place Boulevard in Cumming). Volunteer orientation sessions are held the fourth Saturday of each month at the shelter (4440 Keith Bridge Road in Cumming). HSFC is the only privately-funded no-kill shelter for dogs and cats in the county. For more information, visit www.forsythpets.com or call (770) 886-2882.

Pkwy. Presbyterian Preschool and Kindergarten has openings for half day Christian Kindergarten, Young Fives Program, Four Year Old Program and MMO. The programs run from 8:50 a.m. to 12:35 p.m. They include Spanish, music, chapel, snacks, and outside time. The school is located at 5830 Bethelview Road in Cumming. For more information, call (678) 513-3909.

Midway Elementary Moms in Touch will be forming soon. Moms in Touch is an interdenominational group of mothers who meet weekly to pray for their kids and their school. Those who are interested in praying with the Midway group please contact decarloIII@att.net or kimberlybell@joimail.com. To find a group of another school, contact denisedickinson@bellsouth.net.

Spinners Table Tennis Club is currently accepting membership. The club will meet Wednesday nights, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday afternoons, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. It will be located at Dobbs Creek Recreation Center at 1115 Dahlonega Hwy. Walk-ins are welcome for a $3 per session fee. For more information, call (404) 242-7746 or visit www.espintech.com/sttcclub.html.

American Legion Post 307 is asking the public to please deposit old newspapers in the bin next to Belk's in Lakeland Plaza. Proceeds from the sale of the newspaper will help fund the post's community and youth activities.

American Red Cross is asking Georgians with type O negative, O positive blood, or platelets to donate right away due to a state-wide shortage. To donate platelets, an appointment is necessary at a Red Cross Donor Center. To schedule a platelet or blood donation appointment, call 1-800-448-3543 or visit www.givebloodredcross.org. Donor centers are located in Albany, Athens, Columbus, Gainesville, Macon, Valdosta, and Savannah, Monday through Saturday. Blood donors must be 17 or older and weigh at least 110 pounds.

Good Shepherd Catholic Church Parish Life Center is open and has sports programs open to church members and non-members for both youth and adults. The center is at 3740 Holtzclaw Road in Cumming. For more information, call (770) 887-9861 or visit goodshepherdcumming.com.

WLKS Toastmasters Club meets on Thursdays, from 12:05 p.m. to 1:05 p.m., at Lucent Technologies, in the Gazebo Room. It is located (900 North Point Pkwy. in Alpharetta, Ga.) For more information, contact Francis Chidambararm at (678) 576-3644 or chidambs@yahoo.com.

Forsyth Network for Business Professionals meets every Thursday, from 12:15 to 1:45 p.m., at the Indigo Joe's on Marketplace Blvd. in Cumming. Affordable membership is open to people in the Cumming and north Metro Atlanta area and is exclusive to one representative from each business category. For more information, contact Fred Burak at (678) 677-0815 or burakf@bellsouth.net.

Sons of Confederate Veterans, Cumming Camp is a heritage honor society, serving as a historical, patriotic and non-political organization. Although membership is open to male descendants of Confederate soldiers, all persons are welcome to visit where meetings are informal, casual and friendly. Meetings are held at the Bell center, usually on the fourth Monday of each month. For more information, call Frank Clark at (678) 513-6315 or visit http://georgiascv.comhpbell1642.

United Daughters of the Confederacy meet once a month September to June in Cumming. For more information, call (770) 995-0261. New members are welcome.

Up and Coming Leads Group of Forsyth County a business professional networking organization, meets every Monday for breakfast at the 1400 Building, Northside Hospital-Forsyth, from 7:45a.m. to 9 a.m. For more information, contact Cheryl Kudela at (678) 491-3946 or at finaltouchcleaning@adelphia.net.

Network for Success offers training in business networking, relationship development and communication skills. Membership is open to our community and is limited to one representative from each industry. The network meets every Wednesday from 7:30-8:30 a.m. at O'Charleys restaurant, 920 Buford Road in Cumming. For additional information, contact Ron Dinsmore at (770) 851-7771 or rondinsmore@mindspring.com

Forsyth Amateur Radio Technical Society invites all hams to share lunch with us every Thursday at 11:30 a.m. at Lenny's, next to PetSmart in Cumming. For more information, call Jerry Adams, W4PX on the Sawnee Mountain repeater 147.150 Mhz.

Garden of Empowerment is a nonprofit organization to inspire separated, divorced, and widowed women to move forward with their lives. Our mission is to provide a safe place for emotional healing and growth by offering educational programs to encourage and inspire our women. For more information, call Sue at (770) 815 2628.

MAMA Forsyth County, Mothers Against Methamphetamine, meets every second Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at New Hope United Methodist Church, 4815 Dawsonville Hwy. We strive to provide competent and compassionate drug education and rehabilitation resources for the addict, his family and the community. For more information, contact Claire McDonald (770) 889-8228 or (770) 889-7440.