**COME ANYTIME - SUNSET HIKE STARTS AT 7:15PM** Hey Guys and Gals, join us for an incredible night under the stars on Georgia's Highest Mountain. If you've never done this or been there, it should definitely be on your bucket list. So, come stargazing as we bask in the wonder of the Lord’s creation in an amazingly dark star-filled sky. We will have telescopes available to view distant objects – and encourage that you bring your own telescope or binoculars (if you have one). SUNSET HIKE: We will hike to the top of the mountain to watch the sunset as well as see the blockbuster view of the surrounding mountains so if you’re interested in hiking with us, we will meet at the far-end of the parking lot at 7:15pm (leaving 7:30pm to hike to the top). The hike is a 20 minute hike, just over a half-mile, D3. We will stargaze through a large telescope, looking at several planets as well as the mountains on the moon. The moon sets at 11pm, after that, you will be able to see the Milky Way and there’s always the potential for shooting stars! OPEN TO ALL: Children, neighbors and married friends!! *PLEASE NOTE: If you are running a fever or do not feel well, please do not attend.* WEATHER PERMITTING: Cloudy or rainy - it’s off. Call if not sure. 770-316-9200 WHEN: Saturday night August 22nd 9pm – 12am (for those who want to do sunset hike, meet at 7:15pm). Show up anytime you want! Do not worry about being late! WHY GO TO BRASSTOWN BALD? Well, it’s quite possibly the best place in Georgia to stargaze from, and here’s why. • We have 4,784 less feet of the thickest atmosphere obstructing our view. • It’s very, very dark there and far away from any city light pollution. • It’s so dark there that you can even see the Milky Way clearly and easily. • Parking lot near the summit offers unobstructed views to nearly each horizon • If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike in the dark up to the observation tower for a 360 degree view looking down on the lights of distant towns. Feel free to spend the night in a sleeping bag too! PREPARE! PREPARE! PREPARE! TEMPS: Temps at summit are 10 - 20 degrees less than Atlanta and could be windy expect temps to be in the 50’s and 60’s. WHAT TO BRING: PREPARE!!! Or you will be cold! You will be at 4784 ft. Bring a Sleeping bag or 2-3 blankets per person, Pad for comfort, pillow, jacket, flashlight. No tent camping allowed, but we are allowed to lie on the ground in our sleeping bags. CHAIRS: Bring only the ones that recline because you are looking straight up. It is best to lay on the ground so bring pads or extra blankets. Don't forget snacks and soft drinks or coffee. NO ANIMALS! If you have a telescope, please feel free to bring it! BATHROOMS: YES! Travel time: (1 hour 15min) From Kroger in Dawsonville. LOOK FOR US: at far end of the parking lot.(Echo signs). CARPOOL: If anyone wants to carpool, let us know so we can see if anyone is coming from your area. Cell service is very sketchy up there. KEEP IN MIND: that there are always dangerous elements when out in nature: Cliffs, weather, animals, insects, reptiles, falling limbs or rocks, Poison Ivy, Oak, Sumac, etc. Trails may be un-maintained, slippery, icy, rocky and have steep embankments. Shoes may get muddy or wet. WAVIER: By attending, each person assumes all responsibility and liability for themselves and their actions and hereby releases Echo Ministries, its employees, directors, officers, agents, and volunteers from any and all liability resulting from any loss, injury, illness, damages, or death, while attending, participating or volunteering in this event. If you invite someone, make sure that they receive this information and they understand and agree to all aspects of it, otherwise you’re responsible for them. CORONAVIRUS WAIVER: By attending, each person assumes all responsibility and liability for themselves and their actions and hereby releases Echo Ministries, its employees, directors, officers, agents, and volunteers from any and all liability resulting from the Coronavirus. CONTACT: Greg Ford at 770-316-9200 or gregford@echoministries.com