By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Fundraiser can help your garden take flight
Placeholder Image
Flights of Fancy
What: Auction of bird houses and feeders, garden art and butterfly houses to benefit Elachee Nature Science Center
When: 6 to 9 p.m. Friday
Where: Elachee Nature Science Center, 2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville
How much: $30
More info: 770-535-1976

If you’re looking for a unique Mother’s Day gift, or maybe something for your own garden, Flights of Fancy may be the perfect place to shop.

The annual fundraiser for Elachee Nature Science Center is in its eighth year and will feature a three-part silent auction along with a live auction for a few premier pieces.

“It really focuses on bird houses and garden art, yard art and things for the garden,” Elachee Communications Director Lavon Callahan said. “Or things for winged creatures, so dragonflies and butterflies and all that good stuff.”

Callahan said about 75 percent of the items are made by local artists.

A few of the pieces in the live auction are a painted chandelier, a Frank Norton original painting, a stained glass window and a six-foot rustic bench. There will be more than 130 other items available, making it the biggest auction yet. Bird baths, garden fountains and funky yard art all will be available.

“We have a little bit of everything.” Callahan said. “It’s very eclectic”

The event will be held on the outdoor patio at Elachee and will feature former Elachee staff member Nicole Chillemi singing traditional jazz. Rico’s World Kitchen in Buford will provide light dinner fare with an international flair, according to Callahan. A beverage bar also will be available.

Money raised will be used to support the missions of Elachee — teaching environmental education to students and families as well as conserving the natural resources of the Chicopee Woods Nature Preserve.