50 ways to eat a Vidalia Onion

April 20 was the official “Shipping Date” that began the 2009 Vidalia® Onion Marketing Season. The onions have started arriving in stores, and some of Georgia’s leaders as well as regular citizens are sharing their favorite ways to eat the world’s favorite onion.

Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture Tommy Irvin shows his rural roots when he says he is especially fond of eating them with black-eyed peas and cornbread for lunch at the office. For Deputy Agriculture Commissioner Terry Coleman, it’s a couple of Vidalia onion slices on whole wheat bread with mustard, mayo and some salt and pepper. State Representative Tom McCall likes them microwaved with butter and a little salt and pepper. State Rep. Butch Parrish says “My wife makes a dip with Vidalia onions, cheese and lite mayonnaise that is perfect for any kind of chip or cracker.” State Senator John Bulloch says “They’re great as a side dish for about anything.”

A quick survey of employees at the Georgia Department of Agriculture revealed even more alternatives including Vidalia onions marinated in soy sauce and olive oil and grilled, baked in foil with butter or a bullion cube, thinly sliced on a peanut butter sandwich, in salads, cut up in vinegar with banana peppers and tomatoes, in baked beans, marinated in Italian or balsamic dressing and grilled until slightly tender, in a sandwich with tomato, as onion rings, in Vidalia onion and rice casserole, and straight as a complement to the meal and not part of any dish.
The Vidalia onion is truly versatile as well as tasty.

There must be at least 50 ways to eat one:

Dice it in your dip, Chip,
Chip it in your beef, Chief,
In your tartar sauce, Boss,
And your seafood, Dude,
On your burger patty, Mattie,
Raw and plain, Elaine,
With a little salt, Walt,
With your cornbread, Fred,
Along with your greens, Eugene,
On top of your chili, Willie,
With any cheese, Louise,
With green eggs and ham, Sam,
In a caboose, Dr. Seuss,
With bacon, in Macon,
With your pâté, Kay-tay,
Wrestle it with a fork, Mickey Rourke,
With your bare hand, Ms. Streisand,
Grab one to go, Joe,
Take it a la carte, Bart,
With butterbeans, Billie Jean,
With any veggie, Reggie,
Now with a ‘mater, not later,
Sliced thin, Ben,
With buttermilk-a, Mr. Rilke,
On a sandwich, Rich,
At the church picnic, Rick,
As an hors d'oeuvre, Merv,
In French cuisine, Celine,
With tomato aspic, Nick,
With fried okra, Oprah,
Dining at the Ritz, Fritz,
Chew it with joy, Roy,
Bite it with glee, Lee
In your sa-lad, Vlad,
Mince it, Vincent,
Slip it in your stew, Lou,
Pop it in your squash, Josh,
As an appetizah, Liza,
In a casserole, Dr. Scholl,
Put it in a quiche, capice!
Without sweat, Chet,
Sauté it in a pan, Stan,
With a fine sherry, Terry,
Or a cabernet, Renee,
Right off the grill, Phil,
On a kebob, Rob,
With biscuits and gravy, Davy,
With a pickled beet, Pete,
In a pocket of pita, Rita,
Any way, Kay.
Today, Ray.

Vidalia onions are a uniquely Georgia crop and are only produced in a 20-county growing area in the southeastern part of the state.

What is your favorite way to eat a Vidalia? For more recipes see http://www.vidaliaonion.org/index.php .

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Calling All Gobblers, Statewide Turkey Hunting Season Opens Mar. 21

Turkey hunters across the state are dusting off their calls in preparation for the upcoming turkey season. Opening day is Sat., Mar. 21 and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division anticipates another enjoyable season.

The 2009 season should be respectable, and harvest levels should be similar in comparison with past years’ harvests.

Last year’s reproduction data suggests that turkey production was good in many parts of Georgia in 2008,” explains Kevin Lowrey, Wildlife Resources Division wild turkey project coordinator. “In fact, last year’s hatch was the best since 2002.”

“However, reproduction rates in four of the last five years have been poor and we have seen a decline in the overall turkey population,” continues Lowrey. “While it likely will take some time for the population to rebound, last year’s increase in reproduction is a positive reminder that when habitat conditions are right and weather is favorable, the turkey population is quick to respond.”

Statistics from the 2008 season harvest summary indicate that an estimated 49,237 resident Georgia hunters bagged 24,297 turkeys last year. The bird to hunter ratio (harvest rate) for 2008 was .49 birds per hunter – the same as in 2007.

According to Lowrey, Georgia’s current turkey population is estimated at 300,000 birds.

Georgia turkey hunters are privileged with one of the longest turkey seasons nationwide. With a bag limit of three gobblers per season, hunters have from Mar. 21 through May 15 to harvest their bird(s).

Because most hunters pursue wild turkeys on private lands, the Wildlife Resources Division reminds hunters to always obtain landowner permission before hunting.

WMA Hunting Opportunities

Georgia’s Wildlife Management Areas offer excellent turkey hunting opportunities. Through the WMA system, resident hunters have access to nearly one million acres of prime hunting land for just $19 a year.

Success rates and total harvest numbers from 2008 may help indicate which WMAs hunters should target this year.

In the northwest, Pine Log WMA and Berry College WMA reported the highest harvest rates. In the northeast, Warwoman WMA and Swallow Creek WMA had the highest success rates. In west central Georgia, hunters should try Blanton Creek WMA and Rum Creek WMA. In east central Georgia, Di-Lane Plantation WMA and Yuchi WMA reported high harvest rates. In the southeast, hunters should visit Dixon Memorial WMA and Griffin Ridge WMA.

A special WMA license is required for any person 16 years or older who does not possess a valid honorary, sportsman or lifetime license when hunting wild turkey on a WMA, Public Fishing Area or State Park. In addition, both a valid hunting license and a big game license are required to legally hunt wild turkey. Wild turkey legally can be hunted with shotguns, loaded with No. 2 or smaller shot, any muzzleloading firearm, longbow, crossbow or compound bow.

Conservation of the Wild Turkey in Georgia

The comeback of the wild turkey is one of Georgia’s great conservation success stories. Although the bird population currently hovers around 300,000 statewide, as recently as 1973, the wild turkey population was as low as 17,000. Intensive restoration efforts, such as the restocking of wild birds and increased emphasis on biologically sound hunting seasons, have helped re-establish turkeys in suitable habitat in every county. This resurgence is due to the efforts of private landowners, hunters and conservation organizations like the National Wild Turkey Federation.

The Georgia Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation has donated more than $3 million since 1985 on projects that benefit wild turkey and other wildlife. The NWTF works cooperatively in partnership with the Wildlife Resources Division and other land management agencies to put such projects on the ground. There currently are 112 state chapters of the NWTF with membership totals of more than 18,000.

For more information regarding wild turkey hunting opportunities, WMA hunting opportunities, 2009 wild turkey hunting seasons, regulations or license requirements in Georgia, visit www.gohuntgeorgia.com .

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Turkey Hunters Encouraged to put Safety First

Successful hunting trips require a combination of skill, patience and most importantly, preparation. As turkey season rapidly approaches, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division is concentrating on the preparation aspect, encouraging hunters to brush up on important turkey hunting safety tips before hitting the woods.

“Hunters should always be sure to identify their target before pulling the trigger and should never shoot at sound or movement,” advises Wildlife Resources Division Hunter Education Coordinator Capt. James Bell. “Turkey hunters have to utilize their firearms safety knowledge and remember ways to keep themselves and others safe while in the woods.”

Hunters are encouraged to review the following turkey hunting season safety precautions before the season opens on Sat., March 21:

- Never wear red, white, blue or black clothing while turkey hunting. Red is the color most hunters look for when distinguishing a gobbler’s head from a hen’s blue-colored head, but at times it may appear white or blue. Male turkey feathers covering most of the body are black in appearance. Camouflage should be used to cover everything, including the hunter’s face, hands and firearm.

- Select a calling position that provides at least a shoulder-width background, such as the base of a tree. Be sure that at least a 180-degree range is visible.

- Do not stalk a gobbling turkey. Due to their keen eyesight and hearing, the chances of getting close are slim to none, but a hunter in motion greatly increases his/her chances of being mistaken for game.

- Be careful using a turkey call. The sound and motion may attract other hunters. Do not move, wave or make turkey-like sounds to alert another hunter to your presence. Instead, yell in a loud voice so other hunters know you are in the area.

- Be careful when carrying a harvested turkey from the woods. Do not allow the wings to hang loosely or the head to be displayed in such a way that another hunter may think it is a live bird. If possible, conceal the turkey in a blaze orange garment or other material.

- Although it’s not required, it is suggested that hunters wear blaze orange when moving to and from a vehicle and hunting site. When moving between hunting sites, hunters should wear blaze orange on their upper bodies to lessen chances of being mistaken for game.

Wild turkey hunters must possess a valid hunting license and a big game license to legally hunt turkeys in Georgia. If hunting on a Wildlife Management Area, hunters should also possess a WMA license. Sportsmen and women should always obtain permission from the landowner before hunting on private land. Only male turkeys may be harvested, and the season bag limit is three gobblers per hunter.

For additional turkey hunting information or turkey hunting safety tips, visit www.gohuntgeorgia.com , contact the nearest Wildlife Resources Division Law Enforcement office or call (770) 918-6414.

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When Does Spring Begin?

When does spring begin? Well, it depends on whom you ask.

Most calendar makers list the first day of spring as the day of the vernal equinox, which occurs around March 20. This is referred to as astronomical spring.

Most atmospheric scientists, meteorologists and climatologists say it begins March 1. The National Weather Service uses March 1 as the beginning of spring for climate summary purposes. Dates for the beginning of the climatological seasons are March 1 for spring, June 1 for summer, September 1 for fall and December 1 for winter.

The dates for the beginning of the astronomical seasons are the vernal equinox (around March 20) for spring, the summer solstice (around June 21) for summer, the autumnal equinox (around September 22) for fall, and the winter solstice (around December 21) for winter.

Other ways of defining the seasons have been proposed. The one that is the most logical is to define the summer solstice as the midpoint of summer since the daylight is greatest then. The midpoint of winter is defined as the winter solstice since this is when the daylight is least. By this method, summer would be the six and half weeks before and after the summer solstice. Winter would be the six and half weeks before and after the winter solstice. The midpoint of spring would be the vernal equinox. For fall, it would be the autumnal equinox.

Other designations of spring include Good Friday or the start of the baseball season. My personal favorite is the Masters Tournament week in Augusta. Once the Masters is over, spring is usually here to stay in Georgia. Of course in Georgia, we can still have a dogwood or blackberry winter cold snap in late April or early May.

Regardless of which definition of the seasons one uses, spring in the Southeast is a season of transition. Early spring is characterized by wide swings in temperature with periods of very cold and very warm weather.

Freezes are common throughout Georgia during March. Freezes in late April do happen at times, especially in the northern half of Georgia. Snow and ice storms can happen in March, too, which has included a major blizzard in 1993 and an ice storm in the early 1970s.

By David Stooksbury
University of Georgia

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Shad Season Opens January 1

Commercial shad season runs from 6 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2009 through midnight on Tuesday, March 31, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division. Regulations for the 2009 commercial shad season are the same as the 2008 regulations.

The Altamaha River, including the Oconee and Ocmulgee rivers, as well as the Satilla River and the St. Mary’s River downstream from the Seaboard Coastline Railroad bridge will be open for commercial shad fishing Monday through Friday each week. Waters upstream from this bridge will be open Tuesday through Saturday each week.

The Ogeechee River will be open for commercial shad fishing on Fridays and Saturdays of each week during the shad season.

The Savannah River will be open for commercial shad fishing downstream from the Interstate 95 bridge Tuesday through Friday and upstream from the I-95 bridge Wednesday through Saturday each week. Only drift nets may be used downstream of a line between the mouth of Knoxboro Creek and McCoys Cut at Deadman's Point.

Individuals fishing commercially for shad must have a valid Georgia commercial fishing license. Boats used below the saltwater demarcation line for commercial fishing also must be licensed, with the cost of the license depending on the size of the boat.

The minimum mesh size for legal set or drift shad nets is four and a half inches stretched. Set netters are reminded that set nets must be placed at least 600 feet apart and should be limited to 100 feet in length. Set nets must clearly display the owners name and commercial fishing license number.

Drift nets shall not be fished closer that 300 feet apart and are limited to a maximum of 1,000 feet in length in saltwater. Set nets and drift nets must be situated so as to allow one-half the stream width to be open and free for the passage of fish.

All set nets must have one end secured to the stream bank and must be buoyed at the outer (seaward) end so they are clearly visible to other boaters. This regulation is designed to prevent anglers from setting nets in the mid-channel of the stream. Sturgeon, all catfish species and game fish other than American shad or hickory shad taken in set or drift nets must be released unharmed into the waters where they were taken.

Reporting of American shad harvest to the Coastal Resources Division is a requirement under Georgia’s commercial fishing regulations. If fish are not sold to a licensed fish dealer, anglers are asked to report their catch.

Contact Julie Califf at (912) 264-7218 for harvest reporting forms. Other regulations apply. For a complete set of commercial fishing regulations or for more information, contact a Wildlife Resources Division Law Enforcement office at (912) 264-7237 (Brunswick); (706) 595-4211 (Thomson) or (912) 685-2145 (Metter).

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First Chance to Secure Opening Day, Boston Red Sox, and New York Yankees Tickets Starts Today with "Holiday Six Game Gift Pack"

Beginning today, Nov. 14, fans can secure tickets for some of the hottest Braves game in 2009, including Opening Day, and match-ups with the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees, with the "Holiday Six Game Gift Pack."

Available Nov. 14 - Dec. 15 at Braves.com/holidays or 404-577-9100, the Holiday Six Game Gift Pack includes a pair of tickets to six marquee games in 2009 for as low as $152 (a savings of 27%). The Holiday Six Game Gift Pack also comes with a Braves replica cap, a holiday card, and Braves wrapping paper and a gift box. Other season ticket packages, including a full season ticket package for only $249, are also available for fans looking for additional options.

The Atlanta Braves 2009 home schedule gets under way on Friday, April 10th when the Braves will welcome the Washington Nationals for Opening Night at Turner Field. The New York Yankees come to town for the first time since 2000 in an interleague series June 23-25, followed by an interleague match-up with the Boston Red Sox June 26-28. Tickets to these games and more are available now through the "Holiday Six Game Gift Pack" and other season ticket packages. Fans can call 404-577-5100 for more information.

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Giant Wasps Not After Humans

The scary two-and-a-half-inch wasps hovering over Julie Barkley’s flowerbeds drove the Athens, Ga., resident inside and to her computer.

“I have three children, and we avoid the outdoors because not only of the size of this insect but of the vicious appearance, too,” she said.

Online, she learned that the wasps are called cicada killers. To find out how to get rid of them, she shot off an e-mail to University of Georgia Cooperative Extension.

The answer she got back would likely surprise most proactive, bug-spraying Georgians. UGA Extension entomologist Will Hudson told her to leave the wasps alone. There’s really no reason for homeowners to try to kill them. They aren’t after humans. They’re after just one thing: cicadas.

“Try to see them as another part of Georgia’s wildlife,” he said.

Summer is cicada season, the time the insects start to hatch and the female cicada killer goes on the hunt, he said.

When the wasp catches a cicada, she stings it, carries it to her burrow and lays an egg on it. She lays many eggs, but each one gets a cicada. A female egg may get two, Hudson said. The larva feeds on the paralyzed, but not yet dead, cicada. It pupates and emerge the next year to complete the cycle.

“The wasps are in your yard looking for food for the next generation,” Hudson told Barkley. “You are just another part of the landscape to them, and they pose no threat. While the wasps can deliver a painful sting if provoked, you pretty much have to grab one or try to prevent her from taking a cicada to her burrow to get stung. Who’s going to do that?”

As a child, Hudson and his brother used to chase cicada killers around and try to hit them with brooms. The boys never got stung, he said.

For the past week, Hudson has been fielding calls about the wasps from UGA Extension agents all over Georgia. Most of the calls come from Georgians who want to know what to spray on the wasps to kill them.

Unlike bees, wasps and fire ants, cicada killers are not social insects. They have no workers or soldiers whose sole job is to protect the nest. The female cicada killer is on her own.

“If she stings you and you swat her in retaliation, that’s it,” Hudson said. “She’s not going to be able to reproduce. With bees, the colony can afford to lose some of them and it doesn’t matter. She’s all there is.”

Cicadas can be pests, Hudson said. They lay their eggs in the stems of trees. When they start hatching, a lot of twigs start dying, especially during a heavy outbreak.

“That’s usually not any big deal, but for nurserymen, it can be a problem,” Hudson said. “It changes the growth habit of the tree they’re trying to grow and sell.”

Hudson reminded Barkley that looks can be deceiving and not to be fooled by something’s appearance.

“Hummingbirds look like they could peck the stew out of you with that long, sharp beak, right?” he said. “Cicada killers are no more threatening than hummingbirds, unless you are a cicada.”

By Stephanie Schupska
University of Georgia

Thrashers Announce 2008-09 NHL Regular-Season Schedule

The Atlanta Thrashers, in conjunction with the National Hockey League, has announced the entire 82-game schedule for the 2008-09 NHL regular season (see attachment for complete schedule). Individual game tickets for the regular season will go on sale Saturday, Sept. 20 at 10 a.m.

The Thrashers, who open the season on Friday, Oct. 10 at home against the defending Southeast Division-champion Washington Capitals (7:30 p.m.), will host 23 different opponents at Philips Arena over the 41-game regular-season home schedule, including nine teams from the Western Conference.

This season’s Thrashers schedule is highlighted by 22 weekend games at Philips Arena, including 10 Friday games, six Saturday games and six Sunday games. Along with seven Thursday contests, 29 home games this season will be held between Thursday and Sunday.

Under the NHL’s new schedule format, Atlanta increases the amount of games it plays against Western Conference opponents by lessening the amount of games against teams in the Southeast Division (from eight to six). The resulting eight games are reallocated against the Western Conference.

Due to the format change, Thrasher’s fans will enjoy seeing additional Western Conference teams in action at Philips Arena this season, including the Stanley Cup-champion Detroit Red Wings (March 20, 7:30 p.m.). Overall, the Thrashers will play each non-conference team once with an additional game against three select teams (Colorado, Detroit and Nashville) for a total of 18 games against Western Conference opponents (nine home, nine road), up from 10 total games in the old format.

The Thrashers will now play Southeast Division rivals (Carolina, Florida, Tampa Bay and Washington) six times, including three at home and three on the road (24 games in total). Atlanta will face Atlantic Division teams (New Jersey, New York Islanders, New York Rangers, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh) and Northeast Division teams (Boston, Buffalo, Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto) four times each (40 games in total).

Every team in the NHL will appear at Philips Arena this season with the exception of Anaheim, Dallas, Edmonton, Los Angeles, Phoenix and San Jose.

Start times for Thrashers home games held Monday through Thursday and on Saturday will continue to be at 7 p.m., with the exception of Jan. 14 vs. Ottawa (7:30 p.m.). All Friday games begin at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday home games will start at either 3 p.m. (Nov. 30 vs. St. Louis, Feb. 8 vs. Philadelphia, March 8 vs. Calgary) or 5 p.m. (Nov. 2 vs. Florida, Dec. 28 vs. Boston, Jan. 4 vs. Tampa Bay).

As previously released, the six-game preseason schedule is highlighted by three games at Philips Arena, including contests against the Detroit Red Wings on Oct. 1 at 7 p.m., the Nashville Predators on Oct. 3 at 7:30 p.m. and the St. Louis Blues on Oct. 4 at 7 p.m.

Curtain Rises on New Atlanta Broadway Series

The lights of Broadway are preparing to shine on Atlanta’s newest performance venue! A brand NEW series of blockbuster Broadway programming is set to debut at the new Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, a state-of-the-art venue that opened to popular and critical acclaim in September 2007.

The first season of the Atlanta Broadway Series will premiere this fall with a spectacular line-up of Broadway’s biggest hits and most exciting offerings, including WICKED, CIRQUE DREAMS Jungle Fantasy, HAIRSPRAY and Monty Python’s SPAMALOT. Audiences can also enjoy a special performance from Natalie Cole.

“We are proud to kick off the new Atlanta Broadway Series with such high-caliber content,” comments Stephanie Parker, vice president of the series. “Bringing these beloved Broadway hits to metro-Atlanta audiences is a natural progression now that the Atlanta region features such a spectacular new performing arts facility.”

“The Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre is thrilled to announce its third resident company, the Atlanta Broadway Series, in a venue designed to accommodate Broadway," said Michael Taormina CFE, managing director of the Centre. "Booking a Broadway series has always been a priority for the Cobb Energy Centre. Being able to announce —particularly during our first year of operation—this exciting new addition to the Centre's program offerings is especially gratifying.”

The 2008-2009 season of the Atlanta Broadway Series includes:

WICKED
October 28 - November 2, 2008
This show is playing at The Fox Theatre, but subscribers to the Atlanta Broadway Series will get the chance to see the musical phenomenon as part of their 2008-2009 package.
Back by “Popular” Demand. The New York Times calls WICKED “Broadway’s biggest blockbuster,” and when it first played Atlanta in May, 2006, it broke box office records and sold out in record time. Winner of 20 major awards, including a Grammy® and three Tony Awards®, WICKED is sure to create more box office magic when it flies back to Atlanta. Long before that girl from Kansas arrives in Munchkinland, two girls meet in the land of Oz. One - born with emerald green skin - is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. How these two grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch makes for “the most completely satisfying new musical in a long time” (USA Today).

CIRQUE DREAMS JUNGLE FANTASY
December 30, 2008 – January 4, 2009
USA Today calls CIRQUE DREAMS JUNGLE FANTASY, “Dazzling…A fantastical tale of an enchanted jungle.” Direct from Broadway, CIRQUE DREAMS JUNGLE FANTASY is an exotic encounter inspired by nature’s unpredictable creations that are brought to life by an international cast of 28 soaring aerialists, spine-bending contortionists, acrobats, jugglers and musicians. The astounding feats performed in this action packed Cirque Dream are enhanced with over 150 spectacular costumes and set in a fantastical jungle ignited by striking visual effects. From the breathtaking aerial ballet of butterflies to the balancing giraffes, gigantic flowers and trees, this world-class explosion of athleticism, theatre and imagination will exhilarate the entire family. In the ongoing tradition of extravagant touring shows, Neil Goldberg and Cirque Productions continue to blend European artistry with circus and Broadway theatrics in a dramatic fashion that transcends imagination and leaves its narration to the eyes of the beholder making CIRQUE DREAMS JUNGLE FANTASY a Broadway first.

HAIRSPRAY
January 13 - 18, 2009
It's 1962, and pleasantly plump Baltimore teen Tracy Turnblad has only one desire - to dance on the popular Corny Collins Show. When her dream comes true, Tracy is transformed from social outcast to sudden star, but she must use her newfound power to vanquish the reigning Teen Queen, win the affections of heartthrob Link Larkin and integrate a TV network - all without denting her 'do! Don't miss HAIRSPRAY, Broadway’s musical-comedy phenomenon that inspired a major motion picture and won eight 2003 Tony Awards, including Best Musical. As The New York Times says, “If life were everything it should be, it would be more like HAIRSPRAY. It’s irresistible!”

Monty Python’s SPAMALOT
March 17 - 22, 2009
Winner of the 2005 Tony Award for Best Musical, Monty Python's Spamalot is the outrageous new musical comedy lovingly ripped off from the film classic "Monty Python and The Holy Grail." Directed by Tony Award-winner Mike Nichols, with a book by Eric Idle and music and lyrics by the Grammy Award-winning team of Mr. Idle and John Du Prez, Spamalot tells the tale of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table as they embark on their quest for the Holy Grail. Flying cows, killer rabbits, taunting Frenchmen and show-stopping musical numbers are just a few of the reasons audiences everywhere are eating up Spamalot.

SEASON SPECIAL:
As one of the Season Ticket Holder benefits, Atlanta Broadway Series Season Ticket Holders will have the first opportunity to purchase tickets to a NATALIE COLE CONCERT PERFORMANCE at the Cobb Energy Centre on October 19, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. Singer Natalie Cole has achieved unprecedented global success as an interpreter of standards and soulful R&B vocalist. She was the first black singer to win a Grammy in the “Best New Artist” category and received a “Record of the Year” Grammy for “Unforgettable,” the groundbreaking duet with her late father’s voice. She releases a new collection of standards this fall called Still Unforgettable.

The 2008-2009 Atlanta Broadway Series season packages are on sale now with prices ranging from $116 – $354. Season ticket prices will vary depending on the number of shows chosen, the number of performances, show time, day of the week and seating location. New subscriptions may be ordered over the phone by calling 1-877-451-7469 Monday through Friday, 10:00am to 5:00pm; by fax at 1-800-535-2929; or online at www.cobbenergycentre.com.

Tickets to individual shows in the 2008-2009 season are not available for purchase at this time. Single-show tickets typically go on sale to the general public six to eight weeks prior to Opening Night. However, Season Ticket Holders have the unique opportunity to purchase additional tickets before they go on sale to the public. For more information on the 2008-2009 Season, or to order online, please visit www.cobbenergycentre.com. Reservations for groups of 20 or more for individual shows can be made at this time by calling 404-881-2000.

Performances are Tuesday through Friday at 8:00 p.m., Saturday at 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., and Sunday at 1:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. (All times are subject to change). An audio described performance for the visually impaired and an American Sign Language-interpreted performance for the deaf are available for each pre-determined Saturday matinee of each presentation.

The Atlanta Broadway Series was created in partnership with WH Management.

Atlanta Ballet Announces 2008-2009 Season

As one of the premier ballet companies in the nation, Atlanta Ballet is known as much for its innovative programming as for the artistry of its dancers. In keeping with this tradition of offering diverse, exhilarating performances, Atlanta Ballet is excited to announce the 2008-2009 season. Performances in this 79th season will be held in the beautiful new Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, except for Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker, which will remain a holiday tradition at the Fabulous Fox Theatre.

The curtain will open with Swan Lake in October. Swan Lake is the embodiment of classical perfection and a cornerstone of dance for more than a century. Don’t miss the ballet event that has wooed dance lovers for generations.

Magic can be hard to come by these days, but it is alive and well at the Fox Theater this December. Presenting more than 250 of Atlanta’s young dancers, Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker ushers in the season with an extravagant performance full of wonder and surprises.
In February, Atlanta Ballet audiences will experience the ultimate spine-tingling ballet experience - Bram Stoker’s Dracula. We enjoyed a huge success the last time we performed Dracula and we are looking forward to bringing this tale of seduction and surrender to the stage of the Cobb Energy Centre.

In March, audiences will lose themselves in a world of immortal wizards, lovely maidens, and heroic princes when Atlanta Ballet presents The Firebird. This spectacular evening of mixed repertoire will also feature a world premiere from Darrell Grand Moultrie, an award-winning choreographer who has created works for companies across the United States.

Our season will close in May with two thrilling performances – Don Quixote and Snow White. In Don Quixote, we’ll travel to sunny Spain for an evening filled with excitement, comedy, and true love, based on Cervantes’ classic novel. It’s a ballet treat that’s poignant, passionate, and sizzling with spice! And what would an Atlanta Ballet season be without something for our youngest patrons? A bewitching blend of music and dance, Snow White is brimming with characters we’ve known and loved all our lives. Enjoy this magical fantasy – a one-hour performance of this beloved classic, created just for the family.

2008-2009 season ticket packages start as low as $64.00 and are on sale now. The Premiere Series subscription package includes Swan Lake, Dracula, The Firebird, and Don Quixote. Season subscribers receive up to a 25% discount on regular tickets prices, flexible exchange, and lost ticket insurance. Also available is the Family Series which includes Swan Lake, Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker, and Snow White. The three-performance package starts as low as $44.00.
For ticket information, call the Atlanta Ballet Box Office at 404-892-3303, visit www.atlantaballet.com or buy in person at 1400 West Peachtree Street (enter at back of building on Spring Street) 10:00am to 6:00pm Monday through Friday.

Founded in 1929, Atlanta Ballet is the longest continuously-operating ballet company in the United States. Atlanta Ballet's eclectic repertoire spans ballet history, highlighted by beloved classics and inventive originals.

Among Atlanta Ballet’s proud and unique 78-year history are its three Artistic Directors, Miss Dorothy Alexander, whose vision brought dance to the South; Robert Barnett, who turned Atlanta Ballet into a professional company; and currently, John McFall. Under McFall’s leadership Atlanta Ballet continues its commitment to share and educate audiences on the empowering joy of dance.

Atlanta Ballet opened the Centre for Dance Education in 1996 and is dedicated to nurturing young dancers while providing an outlet for adults to express their creativity. With diverse class offerings and student population, the Centre serves over 150,000 people in metro Atlanta each year. Atlanta Ballet's roots remain firmly grounded in the Atlanta community and continue to play a vital role in the city's cultural growth and revitalization.

Stay Safe During Severe Weather Season

Though Georgia can get bad weather any time, the heart of severe weather season is now until mid-May. To keep you and your family safe, be prepared with a weather radio and a little knowledge, says a University of Georgia expert.

The No. 1 way to stay informed is to have a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, radio, said David Stooksbury, state climatologist and associate professor of engineering and atmospheric sciences with the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.

SAME radio

A NOAA weather radio sounds an alarm and broadcasts up-to-date details about tornadoes, thunderstorms, flash floods or tropical weather. Make sure you buy one with the Specific Area Message Encoding, or SAME, technology. It can be programmed for particular counties.
“You can buy NOAA weather radios at most electronic stores and even some grocery stores,” Stooksbury said.

It is common for severe weather to strike at night in Georgia. For this reason, place the radio in the bedroom to warn sleepers.

“Outdoor warning sirens aren't a good way to monitor severe weather,” he said. “Don't depend on them. Outdoor sirens are to warn people working or playing outside of approaching severe weather. They're not intended to warn people in cars, buildings or people who are sleeping.”

In the event of a tornado, seek shelter in a sturdy building. The lowest level away from windows is the safest place, he said. If one isn't around, lie down in a ditch or low spot where cars or trees won't blow on top of you. Don't stay in a car.

“Regardless of where you seek shelter, protect your body, especially your head and neck, from flying debris,” he said. “Use pillows, blankets, coats or whatever you can find to protect yourself.”

Turn around, don’t drown

Turn around. Don’t drown, he said. Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm hazard.

“Most people literally drive right into the water,” Stooksbury said. “If you can’t see the bottom of the road, turn around.”

As little as six inches of water can cause someone to lose control of a vehicle.

Lightning

An estimated 25 million lightning flashes strike the United States each year, killing 62 people annually, according to the National Weather Service. Using the simple 30-30 rule can help keep you safe during thunderstorms.

“The 30-30 rule for thunderstorm safety is simple,” he said. “When you hear thunder within 30 seconds of a lightning flash, seek shelter and stay there at least 30 minutes after the last lightning flash.”

Since sound travels one mile in five seconds, a 30-second count means lightning has struck within six miles of you. That's within the striking distance of lightning.

Small sheds, picnic shelters, baseball dugouts and bleachers don't offer adequate protection from lightning, Stooksbury said.

“If you're outside, avoid water, open high ground, metal fences and isolated large trees,” he said. “Lightning often, but not always, strikes the highest point in the area, so don't let yourself be the tallest object around.”

Stay clear of windows, landline phones, running water and computers indoors, too. Cell phones and wireless laptops are OK.

“If you have time, unplug everything,” Stooksbury said. “Surge protectors will not protect electrical devices from a direct hit.”

by April Sorrow
University of Georgia

April R. Sorrow is a news editor with the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.

Active 2008 Hurricane Season Predictions Reinforce the Need to Prepare

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Climate Prediction Center announced recently that projected climate conditions point to a near normal or above normal hurricane season in the Atlantic Basin this year. The prediction was issued at a news conference which urged residents in vulnerable areas to be fully prepared for the onset of hurricane season, which begins June 1. In addition, the 2008 outlook indicates a 60 to 70 percent chance of 12 to 16 named storms, including 6 to 9 hurricanes and 2 to 5 major hurricanes (Category 3, 4 or 5 on the Saffir-Simpson Scale).

“Living in a coastal state means having a plan for each and every hurricane season. Review or complete emergency plans now - before a storm threatens,” said retired Navy Vice Adm. Conrad C. Lautenbacher, Ph.D., undersecretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administrator. “Planning and preparation is the key to storm survival and recovery.”

The American Red Cross urges the public to renew hurricane preparedness, sensing that it may not be top of mind after two uneventful hurricane seasons. It is recommended that everyone dust off their disaster supplies kit and get better prepared now for a variety of disasters such as hurricanes and the high winds, flooding and tornadoes that may accompany them.

“By taking three basic preparedness actions you can get “Red Cross Ready” for disasters and other emergencies 1) Get a kit, 2) Make a plan and 3) Be informed,” said Mary S. Elcano, Acting President and CEO of the American Red Cross. “The Red Cross is also here to help you get prepared for specific disasters like hurricanes. Even if you took action to prepare last hurricane season, it’s important that you revisit and update your communication plan and check your disaster supplies kit for expired items.”

The American Red Cross recommends the following preparedness actions:

Get or assemble a disaster supplies kit:

Gather enough emergency supplies to meet your needs. A portable kit, stored in a sturdy, easy to carry, water resistant container should have enough supplies for three days. The Red Cross also recommends having at least two weeks worth of supplies at home and to keep a smaller kit in the trunk of your car. Check your kit and replace the stock every six months. Whether you purchase a kit or choose to build your own, your kit should include:

A three-day supply of water (one gallon per person, per day) and ready-to-eat non-perishable foods, such as tuna fish, peanut butter, crackers, canned fruit, juice boxes, etc.
A manual can opener
A battery-powered or hand-crank radio, flashlight and plenty of extra batteries
A first aid kit and reference guide
Prescription and non-prescription medication items
Copies of important documents, including birth certificates, insurance policies and social security cards
Cash. ATMs and credit cards won’t work if the power is out.
Special items for infant, elderly or disabled family members
A change of clothes for everyone, including long-sleeved shirts, long pants and sturdy footwear
One blanket or sleeping bag per person
Emergency tools, including tools to turn off utilities
An extra set of home and car keys
An extra pair of glasses or contact lenses, extra batteries for hearing aids
Pet supplies

Prepare a Personal Disaster and Evacuation Plan

The American Red Cross urges each and every household to develop a household disaster plan.

Meet with your family to create a plan. Discuss the information you have gathered and why it is important to prepare for a disaster.

Identify two meeting places; One right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, like a fire, and one outside your neighborhood in case you can’t return home.

Be sure to make advanced preparations for your pets. Be aware that pets may not be allowed in shelters. Contact hotels, motels, family members and animal shelters to see if they would allow pets in a disaster situation. Keep a contact list of “pet friendly” locations. If you are asked to evacuate, take your pets with you.

Choose an out-of-area emergency contact person. During or after a disaster, it’s often easier to call long distance, especially if local phone lines are overloaded or out of service. Family members should call this person and tell them where they are. Everyone must know your emergency contact person’s phone number and email address.

Tell your family about the Safe and Well web site accessible at all times via www.redcross.org. The Safe and Well Web site is an Internet-based tool that allows those directly affected by a disaster to let their loved ones know of their well-being. People within a disaster affected area are able to select and post standard “safe and well” messages. Concerned family members who know the person’s phone number (home, cell, or work) or a complete home address can search for the messages posted by those who self-register.

Show and explain to each family member how and when to turn off the water and electricity at the main switches. Turn gas off only if instructed by local authorities. Remember, if the gas is shut-off, only a professional can turn it back on.

Plan your evacuation route. Use local maps and identify alternate evacuation routes from home, work and/or school. Know where you are going and how you plan to get there before you leave home.

Be informed:

Find out what types of disasters are likely to occur in your area and how to prepare for each.
Find out how local authorities will contact you during a disaster. Listen to local media broadcasts or NOAA Weather Radio for the latest storm conditions and follow the advice of local authorities.

Contact your local American Red Cross chapter for details about community disaster education presentations that may be arranged or are available in your workplace, school or community organization.

Get trained in CPR and first aid so you will know how to respond to emergencies in the event that help is delayed.

If you are told to evacuate, do so immediately. You may choose to evacuate sooner than alerted if you think you may need additional time.

Know what to do if a hurricane WATCH is issued:

Listen to weather updates from your battery-powered or hand-cranked radio.
Bring in outdoor objects such as lawn furniture, hanging plants, bicycles, toys and garden tools, anchor objects that cannot be brought inside.
Close all windows and doors. Cover windows with storm shutters or pre-cut plywood.
If time permits, and you live in an identified surge zone, elevate furniture or move it to a higher floor to protect it from flooding.
Fill your vehicle’s gas tank.
Check your disaster supplies kit to make sure items have not expired.

Know what to do if a hurricane WARNING is issued

Listen to the advice of local officials, and leave if they tell you to do so.
If in a manufactured home, check tie-downs and evacuate as told by local authorities.
Secure your home by unplugging appliances and turning off electricity and the main water valve.
If you are not advised to evacuate, stay inside, away from windows, skylights and glass doors.
Do NOT use open flames, such as candles and kerosene lamps, as a source of light.
If power is lost, turn off appliances to reduce damage from a power surge when electricity is restored.
For more information regarding how individuals and families can prepare for disasters or to purchase emergency preparedness and first aid kits, visit www.redcross.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.