CLEVELAND, Ga. — White County’s own field of dreams became a reality Saturday when the ribbon was cut on the beautiful $4.1 million Yonah Preserve Ballfields Complex.

The day began with the Parade of Athletes as hundreds of ballplayers and coaches marched to one of the four new ballfields. White County Commission Chairman Travis Turner dedicated the facility and thanked those who helped make the day possible.

Gov. Nathan congratulates county at Saturday dedication ceremony.

Governor Nathan Deal and wife Sandra were on hand along with Sen. Steve Gooch (R-Dahlonega) and Commissioners Terry Goodger, Craig Bryant, Edwin Nix and Lynn Holcomb.

The ballfields are part of the 1,000-acre Yonah Preserve that thus far, included about 9 to 10 miles of hiking and biking trails that attract about 350 vehicles per week. The trails were built by the Southern Off Road Biking Association (SORBA) at no cost to taxpayers. There is a beautiful fishing lake on the property that will be open soon and a new football field will be added in the near future.

The property was originally leased to the county for $1 with the agreement that it would be used for the public good and recreation. The lease was converted to county ownership last year.

“We are continuing to hold dear to our word to that we will manage this property with respect to its natural God-given aspects while providing an awesome recreation program not only for White County but Georgia as well,” Turner said.

The ribbon cutting ceremony at Saturday’s Yonah Preserve Ballfields Complex.

Gov. Deal said, “You all did a great job with this property. I envision that it will continue to grow and expand and you’re going to become a destination spot. If there is one thing I have noticed in Hall County and Gainesville area, in particular, is that the investments they have made in fields like this bring many, many people from all over the country. Traveling baseball for young people is a very popular activity. There is a lot of recreational dollars that follow it so I think you’re going to be richly rewarded for your foresight and your investment and I congratulate all the members of this county commission and you, Travis, in particular.”

Senator Gooch thanked the governor for his help in making Yonah Preserve possible and added that things like this don’t happen without good relationships between city, county and state officials.

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