Jarrard concert attracts hundreds

GAINESVILLE - The stifling heat apparently did not keep many people away from Tuesday night's John Jarrard benefit concert in Gainesville.

The annual fundraiser for a number of local non-profit groups attracted hundreds to the grassy area next to the Smithgall Arts Center downtown.

The event, now in its sixth year, is held in memory of Jarrard, a Gainesville native, who penned hit songs for a number of country music artists before diabetes took his life several years ago.

During the program, Congressman Nathan Deal paid special tribute to Jarrard's brother and a former law partner of Deal's, Tom Jarrard, who died earlier this year.