Calhoun’s GEM Theater was selected to receive an $8,812 Tourism Product Development Grant from the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD). Funds will assist in restoring the GEM stage.

Twenty-nine applications from across the state were reviewed with requests exceeding $498,000. Grants were awarded based on the project’s potential to create jobs and sustain in the hospitality industry.

“We are grateful for GDEcD’s support and appreciate their recognizing that the GEM Theater is contributing to economic development in downtown Calhoun and Gordon County,” said Sarah Husser, director of fundraising and marketing for the Friends of Calhoun’s GEM Theater.

The grant amount must be matched by the Friends of the GEM. To contribute to the cause, donate by credit card at www.calhoungem.org, mail a check to P.O. Box 423 - Calhoun, Georgia 30703 or call (706) 296-7103. All donations, large and small, are tax deductible.