The Northeast Georgia History Center in Gainesville has planned a series of patriotic events this month, partly as a fundraiser and partly to tout a subject already near and dear to many area residents.

"That's kind of why we're here - to instill that kind of spirit," said Glen Kyle, managing director of the History Center at Brenau University.

First up, as part of "Faces of Freedom: The Patriotic Spirit of Northeast Georgia," is a variety show set for 7:30 p.m. today in the Riverside Military Academy theater.

The Northwinds Symphonic Band, North Georgia College & State University Patriot Choir, Michelle Martin and Bill and Patti Risinger are scheduled to perform, according to the program.

Also, Ken Johnston will portray Patrick Henry and The Lakewood Trio will show up as the Andrews Sisters, and Jim Hammond will serve as master of ceremonies.

The History Center also has planned a "Patriotic Dinner" set for Sept. 28 at the Gainesville Civic Center on Green Street. A social hour begins at 6 p.m. and the dinner at 7 p.m.

The event will include a video presentation featuring interviews with area residents on the subject of patriotism and a guest speaker, retired U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Steven L. Arnold.

Arnold served in the Army for nearly 35 years, including as the commanding general for the Third U.S. Army. A graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y, he and his wife, Susan, now live in Big Canoe.

Tickets to the variety show are $10 per person and the dinner, $75.

"Every year, we do a Taste of History fundraiser ... that is the main (one) of the year, but we also do it to honor some person or some aspect of our community," Kyle said.

"Patriotism could mean focusing on folks in or out of uniform," he said. "We thought we would take (the annual event) a step further. What we haven't done before is really focus all of our events for this one month on this theme."

At the History Center's monthly Family Day on Sunday, visitors will be able to take a tour of patriotic monuments downtown, said Julie Carson, education and volunteer coordinator.

"We will also equip them, if they desire, with the materials to do a rubbing at different monuments," Carson said.

Tours begin at 1:30 and 2:30 p.m.

Also planned at the center's monthly forum on Tuesday is a lecture by retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. J.D. Kirby, who served two tours of duty in Vietnam, Kyle said.

Admission is free for History Center members and $3 for nonmembers.

The center also sponsored a poster and essay contest for area schools.

The winning posters and essays will be on display at today's concert and all submissions will be on display at the Family Day event. Also at Family Day, the contest winners will receive an award, Kyle said.