Rome, Georgia is celebrating the Civil War hero John Wisdom on October 15, 2011 with the 32nd annual John Wisdom Wagon Train/Trail Ride. The ride begins at Coosa Valley Fairgrounds at 8:30 AM and will make a 23 mile travel to Shannon, Georgia.

In 1863, mail carrier John Wisdom rode many hours from Gadsden, Alabama to Rome to warn them of an impending attack by Union troops during the Civil War. Thanks to his efforts, Rome’s militia gathered together to reinforce the town from attack and soon, unbeknownst to John,  confederate soldiers, led by Nathan Bedford Forrest, came and captured the Union troops. This ride is to commemorate his heroic act.

Tickets are available at the main entrance. $10 for adults, $5 for students under 12. Coggins papers must be shown in order to participate.

A Cowboy Dance featuring the Backwater Band will be held at 8 PM at the Coosa Valley Fairgrounds. Tickets for the dance are $5.

Camping will be allowed at the fairgrounds on Friday and Saturday night. The camp sites open at 12 noon on Friday. For more information, call 706-295-5576.

Take part in the Gary Tillman Memorial Clocktower 5K Road Race and 2 mile Health Walk in Rome, Georgia on August 20, 2011 beginning at 8 AM. The race headquarters is at Heritage Park behind the Levee on 2nd Avenue. The race will be run through downtown Rome. Register on race day from 6:30 AM to 7:30 AM and all events are $25.

The 5K race will be chip timed and awards will be given for 1st place in Overall, Masters, and Grand Masters for male and female. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places will be awarded for each age group.

Spend the afternoon enjoying the shops, restaurants, and the sidewalk sale being held after the race by the downtown merchants in downtown Rome. Head to Heritage Park at 6 PM for River Revelry and have some fun, food, and music. For more information, call 706-235-3035.

Proceeds from the race will benefit The Exchange Club Family Resource Center for the prevention of child abuse.