The torch is the most revered symbol of the Olympic Games, but for many American towns, the eternal flame is a symbol of blazing bucks. The 15,000-mile torch run through 43 states is a multimillion dollar endeavor, partially funded by corporate sponsors and the Atlanta Committee for the Olympic Games. But a large share of the cost falls to local governments and tourism agencies.

...neighbors arrive. "We're OK," Mr. Boyd repeats, a smile stretching across his face. "Everything's fine." Amy Joyner can be reached at (706) 823-3339 or amyjoyn@augustachronicle.com.

...It's not every day your dream comes true," he said. "And it's going to happen today." Tom Corwin and Amy Joyner can be reached at (706) 724-0851 or newsroom@augustachronicle.com.

...or sister for the Rottweilers. "If we won in Augusta, we'd definitely name a dog Augusta," Mr. Mayfair said. Amy Joyner can be reached at (706) 823-3339 or amyjoyn@augustachronicle.com.

...blue pullover. "I got up yesterday and it was 80 degrees and sunny, so I figured I'd have the same thing today." Amy Joyner can be reached at (706) 823-3339 or amyjoyn@augustachronicle.com.

...would only be played one hour after sunrise and one hour before sunset. "The rest would be tee times," he said. Amy Joyner can be reached at (706) 823-3339 or amyjoyn@augustachronicle.com.

...stuff. I can go through a bald head for two weeks," said junior Bert Kitchen, who also shaved his head for Rett. Amy Joyner can be reached at (706) 823-3339 or amyjoyn@augustachronicle.com.

...patients and their families; Revised guidelines on the sterilization of supplies and equipment used in the operating room. Amy Joyner covers military issues for The Augusta Chronicle. She can be reached at (706) 823-3339 or amyjoyn@augustachronicle...

...We are not cloggers," Lilly said emphatically. "Clogging is a derivative of Irish dancing," Janemarie said. Amy Joyner can be reached at (706) 823-3339 or amyjoyn@augustachronicle.com.

...After you dance," Anna explained, "You can never look at them again. You can never look them in the eye." Amy Joyner can be reached at (706) 823-3339 or amyjoyn@augustachronicle.com.