Ninety-seven participants ran, walked or were pushed in a stroller during the first ever Fairmount United 5K, which was part of the Fairmount United Memorial Day Festival.

Adam Dodson of Dalton took top honors in the 5K. Gordon County’s own Bill Moore came in second. The Carpet Capital Running Club did the timing and certifying of the racecourse.

After completing the 5-K, participants and many others from all over northwest Georgia enjoyed the fun and activities of the day-long festival. Twenty-five vendors, set up on the square in Fairmount.

Volunteers and personnel from nine United Way agencies — Big Brothers Big Sisters, Family Resource Center, Council for a Literate Community, Boys and Girls Club, The Bridge, American Red Cross, Domestic Violence Outreach Office, Fairmount Girl Scouts and Fairmount Boy Scouts — were on hand to feed, entertain, and enjoy the day.

Games, rides and bouncy inflatables were all available to the children. The Gordon County Antique Engine and Tractor Club along with horse and buggy, fire truck, and gator rides were available to the children. The Meadowdale Mob held a motorcycle poker run, and Jo Holder organized the antique car show that included 53 vintage vehicles. The City of Fairmount was well represented in the dunk tank by their own Mayor, Harry Pearce. He, along with Billy Mauldin, spent the majority of the day underwater. Their good natured fun raised additional funds for United Way. David Edelberg of Dahlonega won the Chili Cook-off.

A big thank you goes to the City of Fairmount and the citizens of Fairmount who worked to make this event happen. This festival will become an annual event for United Way and the city of Fairmount. The excitement, cooperation, and hospitality shown to all made the first Fairmount United Festival a very special day.