A total of 49 graduating seniors from Georgia Cumberland Academy took the stage during a commencement ceremony Saturday, May 18, signaling the end of a school year, as well as the end of two days of ceremonies and services. Students in the GCA graduating class of 2013 included students from Georgia, Tennessee, New York, Florida, Texas, North Carolina, Michigan, Bermuda, Korea, and even one foreign exchange student from Japan. Though students come from many places, the message to them from class president Courtney Tierisa, that “You are Done!” “You made it. You have determined, you’ve surrendered and you achieved. We’ve seen joys, we’ve seen hurts, we’ve seen tears, and we’ve seen smiles. At this time I want each of you to take a moment and reflect on how far you’ve come. I know I’ve changed since my freshman year and I am sure you have as well. No matter where you were, whether it be GCA or another school, take a moment and look back on it, because now you are different and you’ve made it!” Of the graduates Christopher Pubillones was a National Merit Commended recipient, and received a full tuition scholarships to Georgia Tech, alongside brother Steven Pubillones. Additionally, Darby Jones, of Calhoun, received a full scholarship for the music program at Converse College. In total, the GCA graduating class of 2013 saw a total of approximately $550,000 awarded in scholarships. The graduation weekend began with a consecration service on Friday evening, May 17 and continued with a Baccalaureate service on Saturday morning, a Parent Tribute program on Saturday afternoon and culminated in the Commencement service on Saturday evening, at 8 p.m.

The Family Connection of Gordon County Board of Directors invite all to a reception hon-oring Whitney Carnes, Gordon County Schools social worker for the past nine years, from 9:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 23 at The Depot. Whitney's contribution to our community has been exemplary and she will be missed as she moves to Pickens County Schools.

Nathan Sexton will perform live at 8 p.m. on Thursday, May 23 at The Fork Diner, 474 Red Bud Road by The Pig. There will be no admission charge for the event.