2009-2010 B.E.S.T. for Kids Brings Performing Arts to Ellijay

Thanks to a generous grant from the Harrison Foundation, the 2010 B.E.S.T. for Kids Series provided an opportunity for every student in Gilmer County to experience live performing arts.

This year's diverse programming featured a wide variety of musical presentations from classical, latin, jazz, and rock. Featured artists from the Woodruff Arts Center included the Rialto Jazz Ensemble and Havana Son (featured in the photo), in a rhythmic journey of Latin America.  The acclaimed Atlanta Percussion Trio also performed in the series.  B.E.S.T. for Kids was also the primary sponsor for the 1st Annual Summer Palooza Music Festival at the Lion's Club Fairgrounds. SummerPalooza featured ten different regional and national acts in a carnival atmosphere complete with activities, games and carnival food. The events were well attended by students of all ages from primary to high school.

Also sponsoring this year’s events were funds from Amicalola EMC Operation Round Up, a program that provides financial assistance to worthwhile community projects by “rounding up” the electric bill of participating members. “Through this series, we hope to enrich the lives of our youth and develop an interest in the arts that will last a lifetime,” says Brian Barrentine, GAHA Board Member and Gilmer High School Chorus Director.

Special thanks to our event organizers, Jessica Nohner and Katie Mayfield.