Shortcuts May 09 2001
MEMPHIS, TENN.
The Netherlands may occupy only .008 percent of the world’s area, but organizers of the Memphis in May International Festival thought the country deserved to be honored at its 2001 event. Tulips, purchased with a $10,000 donation from the Netherlands’ government, have been planted around the city for the festival. Memphis Botanic Gardens will host a family-oriented event spotlighting the food, art, dance and culture of the honored country. Anna Popovich and her band will perform Dutch sounds and a Memphis Dutch family hosts a Dutch barbecue chef who will be serving up treats. May 12. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 750 Cherry Road. 901-525-4611 or www.memphisinmay.org.
DAHLONEGA, GA.
Wanna brave the rapids? You better learn how to steer the canoe first. At Medicine Bow Wilderness School is offering a Whitewater Canoe Clinic for beginners and intermediates. The course is taught on the Chestatee River by the 1998 U.S. National Open Canoe champion. A boat may be rented at the river for an additional cost or you can bring your own. May 12. $60. 104 Medicine Bow. 706-864-5928, medbow@alltel.net or www.medicinebow.net.
BIRMINGHAM, ALA.
If you’re tired of all the ooohing and aaahing over the giant pandas visiting Zoo Atlanta, take a two-hour trek to the Birmingham Zoo and check out their new koalas. Other new additions include two toucans and a komodo dragon. The zoo also has several “species survival plan animals” including a maned wolf, a ring-tailed lemur, a cinereous vulture and a white rhinoceros. Daily. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Adults $8, children 2-12 and seniors $4. 2630 Cahaba Road. 205-879-0458 or www.birminghamzoo.com.
CHATTANOOGA, TENN.
Artist John Kuenneth is offering all he has during the Jewelry Trunk Show at the River Gallery in downtown Chatty May 12. For one day only, Kuenneth will display his handmade necklaces and earrings, made from antique beads or beads from other cultures. The artist also will share the history and significance of the materials he uses to create his jewelry. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 400 E. Second St. 423-265-5944 or www.river-gallery.com.
AUGUSTA, GA.
After entertaining the hometown crowd, Kevn Kinney and the Jennifer Nettles Band will trek east to the third annual Garden City Music Festival May 12. Three stages will feature 27 bands, including Macha, Ph Balance, Riff Raff Kings and more. A children’s area, fine arts and crafts and a drum circle also will be featured. Don’t forget the festival food and beer. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. $5 (children 10 and under free). Riverwalk in downtown Augusta. 706-826-4702 or www.augustaarts.com.??