Newton Citizen

COVINGTON - Tickets are now on sale for Keep Covington/Newton Beautiful's Green Getaway set for Nov. 6 at Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center.

The annual event benefits KCNB's educational and beautification programs. This year's goal is to raise $20,000.

As always, KCNB will use some of the funds to pay for the puppet shows it puts on to teach local students about caring for the environment, Program Education Specialist Laurie Riley said.

Also, this year, KCNB is starting a new grant program. Local organizations can apply for grants to improve their entrances.

"It's geared toward places like homeowners associations and schools that may want to do some plantings around their signs. Even some municipalities may want to apply," Riley said.

Funds raised at the Green Getaway will make that program possible.

The event will take place at 6 p.m. and will feature dinner, a silent and verbal auction and entertainment by Elvis impersonator Mark Eskew.

"Mark was here last year and he was great," Green Getaway Chairperson Leslie Lathem said. "The evening is truly a getaway - a way to escape the busyness, the economy, the work of every day and just enjoy a fun evening of dinner and dancing, while supporting a good cause at the same time."

The auction will include a variety of items such as dinners, trips, a tailgate party and gift baskets from area businesses.

A Jackson Lake soiree, a guided bird watch and a stay at a mountaintop home are the big ticket items. Auction items can be viewed at www.kcnb.biz.

Tickets are $50. The deadline to purchase tickets is Oct. 30.

For more information, call 770-784-2015 or e-mail newtonclean@co.newton.ga.us.

Crystal Tatum can be reached at crystal.tatum@newtoncitizen.com.