400 Edition October 2009

400 Edition W h a t ’s

u p

i n

N o r t h

October 2009

G e o r g i a

Fall Festivals Guide

Lorrie Morgan

October 9 at the Cumming Country Fair & Festival

FREE

October 2009 Carole Lee, Founder/Creative Design Linda Merritt, Founder/Sales/Executive Editor Bob Merritt, Director of Sales Beth Snider, Founder/Sales/Creative Design Brooke Morris, Creative Design Nancy Wright, Proofing

Contributing Writers: Anne Amerson

Sharon Keating

Clay Cunningham

Steven Leibel

Dr. Mark Feinsilber

Dr. Joyce Nations

Nancy Forrest

Donald Pruitt

Robin Toms Grier

Linda Ragland

Martha Hynson

Patrick Snider

Staff Writers: Carole Lee

Beth Snider

Bob Merritt

Nancy Wright

Linda Merritt 400 Edition is published monthly in Dahlonega, Georgia, with distribution in three counties.

Viewpoints expressed by contributing writers are not necessarily those of the publishers, staff or advertisers. 400 Edition is not liable for inaccurate or erroneous information posted in advertising or event submissions.

Ads must be submitted and paid in full by the 20th of every month, unless arrangements have been made in advance. Content and presentation of advertisements is subject to editorial review and modification. Ad dimensions and pricing may be obtained by calling 706-867-6455 or 866867-7557. These specs may also be viewed at www.400edition.com.

Writers may submit material to editor@400edition. com. Submissions are subject to approval by the editor and may be edited for space, requirements, and style. The deadline for submissions is the 15th of each month.

Contents of this publication become the property of 400 Edition and the original author and cannot be reproduced without written consent of the publisher.

This publication is printed by Walton Press in Monroe, GA.

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From the Editor...

W

elcome to our annual Festival Guide.

You will find within these pages all the major North Georgia Festivals, and perhaps a few you didn’t know even existed. Take our magazine and plan your entire month of October. You will have something to go to every weekend. Use our map in the centerfold and take your friends and family out for lots of wholesome fun.

As you have noticed, we took a couple of months off and made some changes to our magazine. The major change: Issues come out on the first of the month rather than mid-month. We have also pared down our distribution area and now have racks in Forsyth, Dawson, and Lumpkin counties.

Advertisers in each month’s magazine will have copies regardless of their location. For example, in Pickens County, Lakota Cove will have issues of this magazine. We have retained many of our writers, so the content will still be familiar to you. You will be seeing more articles on our advertisers because these are the folks who are holding the economy together in the North Georgia area. We want to thank all the people who emailed or called inquiring about 400 Edition. Your kind words, prayers, and support mean so much to us.

The news is filled with many negative items these days. You know, if you keep hearing enough of that, you will start to believe it. I for one have gotten tired of letting the news media get the best of me. I may lose

my shirt but I’ll go down believing that we’ve got to give our best to what we believe in. Our pastor has given several good sermons on this topic lately and they have made a good impression on me. As he said, “We’re not the CEO of the universe.” Someone bigger than you and I will handle all the problems coming at us right and left. So quit using negative words and phrases. Quit wallowing in selfdoubt and pity for yourself. Look for the best in all situations and turn your problems over to God. Are you going to live in fear or are you going to live in faith?

Until next month…stay happy!

On the Cover O

nce again Dave Horton, Fairgrounds Manager at the Cumming Fairground, has purchased our front cover. Dave and his staff work long and hard to make all the events at the Fairground well worth attending, but they pull out all the stops for the Cumming Country Fair & Festival. This year the fair starts on October 8 and runs through October 18. See all the schedules in this issue.

The beautiful Lorrie Morgan graces our front cover this year. She was literally a child of the Grand Ole Opry, tagging along as her father, the late George Morgan, performed every weekend from the Opry stage. Lorrie made her debut appearance at 13 as her dad watched her charm the audience with her distinctive voice. She was invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry in 1984, long before she released her platinum-selling debut album “Leave the Light On” in 1989. Her next two albums, “Something in Red” (1991) and “Watch Me” (1992), were also certified platinum and sent Morgan on a rise to stardom. She has charted eight number one videos at CMT and four wins as Female Vocalist of the Year (1994, 1995, 1997, and 1998). Lorrie will be in concert at the Cumming Fairground on Friday, October 9 at 8:30pm.

Some of the other concerts at the fair this year: Country singer Jason Michael Carroll, Dove winners Downhere, The Charlie Daniels Band, and Ray Price. Remember, the concerts are free with fair admission.

Besides the concerts, there are daily attractions at the fair you do not want to miss. There are elephants, tigers, ponies, a Cherokee Indian village, comedy circus, penguins, petting zoo, the master of the chainsaw, a robot, and a midway with over 40 rides and games that will provide fun for everyone.

See more information on these attractions on page 6. You will also find a map to the Cumming Fairground.

Bring your appetite to the fair. Who could forget those good hot dogs, funnel cake, cotton candy, popcorn, and many other tasty things to eat? Enjoy your days at the fair.

Don’t hold back; tell us how you really feel about 400 Edition. We love receiving feedback from our readers and advertisers. Call us at 706-867-6455, toll free at 866-867-7557, or send an email to info@400edition.com.

Contents

Fall Festivals

October 2009 Volume 6, Issue 5

Columns continued

8 Heritage Days in Talking Rock

14 Historic Forsyth

8 Georgia Apple Festival

15 Leibel on the Law

8 Cherry Log Festival

24 Reflections

18 Blairsville Sorghum Festival

26 To Your Health

19 North Georgia Festivals Descriptions

27 Your Vision Source

20 North Georgia Festivals Map 28 Southeast Tourism Society’s Top 20

29 Mind & Heart 30 Fun by 400 30 Comma Momma

Columns

38 Knowing Wine

39 Good Eating—The Foster House

9 Through a Woman’s Eyes

12 Getting Informed

39 Real Men Cook­—Bread Bowl Pasta

A list of major distribution points in North Georgia can be found online at www.400edition.com.

A River Runs Through It T

he willowy 8’ Payne fly rod just looked out of place in the Old Man’s short, stubby, callused hands.

The Old Man was my Grandpa and I was his only grandson. I had seen the pictures, in the Orvis catalog, of the well-dressed manicured men and women standing in a perfect stream, casting to mythical trout. But as I parted the mountain laurel and cast my eyes on the sight before me, it seemed incredible. Here was a short, heavyset, balding old man, dressed in overalls, waist deep in Hazel Creek. Water so pure and perfect it must have flowed directly out of heaven cascading down granite rocks and splashing into deep green pools.

Pools that were roofed by luxuriant green mountain laurel. Pools that reflected the mountains and the sky so clearly that it was as if you were looking at a mirror. And then the sunbeams sneaking their way among the leaves to change the colors and contrast of nature. And the sound of the water so peaceful. Diane Heath, once my doctor and now my friend, an excellent fly fisher herself, tells me that the sound of water is imprinted on us in the womb. That is why its sound makes us feel so relaxed and secure.

To be honest, the Old Man looked out of place in this beautiful and perfect setting. He should have had on an Orvis shirt instead of that old Sears flannel he got on sale. He should have been wearing Gore-Tex waders and not Liberty overalls and tennis shoes. It was almost funny until I saw him cast. I was mesmerized. He would raise the rod sharply and the line would straighten out behind him and then he would cast forward with a tight loop and the small fly would fall like a down feather on the water.

The renegade fly riding high on the water would bounce down with the current into a waiting maw of another brook trout. He would tighten the line and soon gently coach another victim to his callused hand. Then with a flip of the forceps the trout was freed to fight another day. Time and time again I watched the Old Man go on point, make one false cast, then shoot the line forward, tipped with its delicate feather and thread morsel, to another trout. As I relive that scene over in my mind one word comes to mind. That word is grace.

Webster tells us that grace is best described as that quality which endows something or someone with beauty, elegance, or dignity. But even those terms cannot define grace.

Perhaps grace is just one of those things that has to be experienced

by Dr. Jim Gaines

and not defined. We have all seen graceful women. But to define that grace in that person seems to—well, it just takes something away from the beauty before us.

If grace is so difficult to define in another human being, how much more difficult is it to define in God? We preachers usually say that grace is a favorable disposition on the part of God, usually without reference to any merit or desert in the object of favor. The grace of God is therefore that quality of God’s nature which is the source of all men’s undeserved blessings, in particular those blessings which have to do with salvation. My good friend, Dr. Robert Wales, who is a devoted Catholic priest, an excellent Greek scholar, and better yet, a gifted and generous fly tier, tells me that in their belief system the Church is the repository of God’s grace. The sacraments are the channels through which grace may reach a person’s soul. Baptists like me, on the other hand, believe that the church is very important but that God has direct access to each person’s soul. Hence the term “priesthood of the believer.” Bob and I will always disagree on how grace is gotten and what size cane rod to use on brookies, but we will agree on what grace is and what size Renegade or Adams dry fly to use on Hazel Creek in the Smokies.

Yes, the Old Man just looked out of place. Those hard old hands clutching a delicate fly rod, worth more now than my truck. In those faded soiled overalls with that cheap flannel shirt. He just did not seem to deserve to be in a place like that.

In the midst of all that grace and beauty he just did not fit in. Then it dawned on me that that is exactly how all of us must look to God. In the midst of all His beauty and grace we stand with our unclean garments of our miserable lives. But no matter how soiled and callused our life, no matter how out of place we seem, God still loves us and wants each of us to share in the beauty of His grace.

Norman Maclean was right; a river does run through it and the flowing water is God’s grace.

Dr. Jim Gaines is pastor of First Baptist Church Dawsonville. He studied at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, did postdoctoral work at Union Theological Seminary New York and Vanderbilt, and has written and published several magazine articles in theological journals and secular works.

October 2009 • www.400edition.com

400 Edition

Cover story— Cumming Country Fair & Festival Visitors to the fair will enjoy several educational and family-oriented Cumming Fairground attractions, like the living history exhibits featuring a 1900’s rural township with reproductions of a doctor’s office, art deco barber shop, dentist office, printing press, oneroom schoolhouse, churches, general store, working post office, and the Heritage and Indian Villages.

Be sure to check out the “Daily Specials” offering great discounts on admissions and rides for children, students, seniors; there’s even a discount for visitors who present a non-winning Georgia Lottery ticket on featured days throughout all 11 days of the event.

Dates & Times October 8: 4:00pm - 10:00pm October 9: 4:00pm - 12:00am October 10: 10:00am - 12:00am October 11: 12:30pm - 7:00pm October 12 - 15: 4:00pm - 10:00pm October 16: 4:00pm - 12:00am October 17: 10:00am - 12:00am October 18: 12:30pm - 7:00pm Adults $7.00 Students (5-18) $3.00 5 and under Free Parking Free Concerts are free with Fair admission.

Remember…No pets, no coolers, no alcohol, no weapons allowed.

Ticket Specials Thursday, October 8: FREE admission courtesy of Northside Hospital in Forsyth. $18 Pay-One-Price Rides Friday, October 9: Lorrie Morgan in concert, 8:30pm Saturday, October 10: Kids Day - FREE admission for children 12 and under from 10:00am-3:00pm. 2 Ride for the Price of 1! All Ages! 10:00am - 3:00pm. Little Miss Forsyth County Pageant, 10:00am-1:00pm.

Sunday, October 11: Senior Citizens Day! FREE admission for visitors 55 and over! 2 Ride for the price of 1, all ages, from 12:30 - 3:00pm

400 Edition

Skin & Bones Comedy Circus – A unique

presentation of animals, skill, and comedy. The show includes various combinations of trained dogs, potbellied pigs, juggling, magic and plenty of comedy.

The show is kid tested and parent approved.

Frisco Brothers Petting Zoo and Pony Rides – Allowing

visitors to get up close with bison, zebra, cows, rabbits and llamas.

Cherokee Indian Village – Consisting

Monday, October 12: Student Night! FREE admission 18 and under $15 Pay-One Price Rides.

Tuesday, October 13: $18 Pay One-Price Rides. Jason Michael Carroll in concert, 8:00pm Wednesday, October 14: Downhere in concert, 8:00pm. The Fish Family Fun Day! Thursday, October 15: The Charlie Daniels Band in concert, 8:00pm.

Friday, October 16: Ray Price in concert, 8:30pm. Prior to concert Georgia Lottery Autographed Guitar Giveaway at 8:00pm!

Saturday, October 17: FREE Admission and Rides 10:00am - 11:00am. 2 Ride for the Price of 1! from 11:00am - 3:00pm. Georgia Lottery Day! 11:00am - midnight get $1.00 off adult admission with a non-winning lottery ticket.

Chainsaw Carving Auction – 7:00pm.

Sunday, October 18: LAST DAY OF THE FAIR!

Daily Attractions Frisco Brothers Elephant Show – This

show will amaze the young and old alike.

These large but lovable creatures will put on an entertaining and education show for all.

of six buildings (two log cabins that were moved to the fairgrounds and completely renovated, and four new facilities using authentic construction methods and materials) that represent Native American culture, traditions and lifestyle. A daily living encampment and demonstrations will educate visitors about how the Native American Indians lived off the land to survive.

Tiger Encounter – See these fierce and

mighty animals up close. You and your entire family will enjoy an educational encounter and a fun, lively show.

Brian Ruth, Master of the Chainsaw

– Brian Ruth will transform a raw, two-footlong log into a true work of art with only a chainsaw. All carvings will be auctioned off on Saturday, October 17, at 7:00pm.

Oscar the Robot – A sophisticated, robotic people magnet! He generates and entertains crowds with his wonderful wit and outgoing personality wherever he appears!

The Great James H. Drew Exposition Carnival Midway – Featuring over 40 rides and numerous games that will surely provide fun for all! All rides require more than (1) coupon each.

High Dive Show – Five penguins and their trainer attempt to go through a training session to be prepared for the Arctic Olympic Games, but the trainer can’t find the penguins. After much fun and frolicking, the funny dives are over, and the Olympic dives start. The last show of every night will conclude with the rare Flaming Penguin showing off his FIRE DIVE! 235 Castleberry Road Cumming, GA 30040 October 2009 • www.400edition.com

Heritage Days Festival in Talking Rock O

rdinarily, the historic little town of Talking Rock is rather quiet, a nice place to browse in the shops for antiques, gifts, original art, and floral designs. The coffee shop is the perfect place to relax between shops. Talking Rock is wrapped in Railroad and Native American history, as depicted in the two murals painted by local artists. It is a great place to visit anytime.

However, if you are going to pick one time this year to come to this historic little town, make it October 17-18, 2009, to experience one of North Georgia’s great festivals. This year Talking Rock celebrates the Fifteenth Annual Heritage Days Festival, and the little town will be filled with booths featuring a wide variety of arts, crafts, antiques, and food (really good food). Experience a variety of interesting demonstrations for young and old, wonderful selections of food, and live music. There will be good old bluegrass and Southern gospel music, mixed in with songs that will take you back to that special place and time in your memories. Visit the teaching museum in the restored one-room schoolhouse that was built in 1877. This is one of the few one-room schoolhouses still left in the country. A favorite ride is with donkeys Andy and Barney, who will be happy to take you around the festival, and the town crier will keep you informed about activities.

The festivities will begin Saturday and Sunday morning at 9:00am and run till 5:00pm. So come enjoy “the best fall festival in the North Georgia mountains.”

Traveling between Jasper and Ellijay, just look for the signs.

Admission and parking are free.

For more information, call the Town Hall at 706-253-5515, visit our website at www.talkingrockga. com, or e-mail totr@etcmail.com.

Talking Rock is looking forward to seeing you.

400 Edition

Georgia Apple Festival Ellijay Celebrates 38 Fun-Filled Years!

October 10, 11, 17, and 18

T

he Ellijay Lions Club, North Georgia’s main apple varieties (other varieties are the Gilmer County also available) include: Chamber of Commerce, the cities of Ellijay and Approx Varieties Flavor Use East Ellijay, and Gilmer Harvest Dates County invite everyone to come and enjoy the Early McIntosh July Tart Eat/Cook 38th year of the Georgia Gala Aug 10-Sept 10 Sweet Eat Apple Festival on McIntosh Aug 10-Sept 10 Sweet/Tart Eat/Cook October 10-11 and 17Winter Banana Aug 20-Sept 10 Tart Cook 18. There are over 300 Red Delicious Aug 30-Dec Sweet Eat vendors with handmade, hand-crafted items, as Golden Delicious Aug 30-Dec Sweet Eat/Cook well as many on-site Rome Sept 15-Dec Sweet/Tart Eat/Cook demonstrations of how Mutsu Sept 15-Dec Sweet/Tart Eat/Cook selected types of crafts Jonagold Sept 15 Sweet/Tart Eat/Cook are made.

Pritchett Golden Oct 1 Sweet Eat/Cook Widely known for its apples, Gilmer County Granny Smith Oct 1-Dec Tart Eat/Cook boasts some 18 apple Arkansas Black Oct 5-Dec Sweet/Tart Eat/Cook orchards producing Stayman Winesap Oct 5-Dec Tart Eat/Cook 600,000 bushels of Fuji Oct 20-Jan Sweet Eat apples, 25 different Pink Lady Oct 30-Jan Sweet/Tart Eat/Cook varieties, each year.

Eleven of the orchards Georgia’s apple country. From late August to are found in the picturesque valley, Apple Orchard December, roadside stands abound with the tastiest, Alley, along Highway 52 East. Sixty percent of the tree-ripened mountain apples available. And by apple trees in Georgia are in Gilmer County. Apple buying direct from the growers, you are assured Houses sell apples and related food products of getting better tasting, fresher, less expensive as well as fried apple pies, apple cider, and apples amidst some of the state’s most breathtaking homemade apple butter. scenery.

Absolutely the best—that’s what you get when See www.downtownellijay.org or www. you pick Ellijay for apples. Nestled in the mighty georgiaapplefestival.org for more information.

Appalachian Mountains, Ellijay is the heart of

Cherry Log Fall Festival The first three weekends in October, the community of Cherry Log celebrates the harvest with the Cherry Log Festival. This community is located on GA515 halfway between Ellijay and Blue Ridge, between mile marker 18 and 19. The Festival has been a tradition for 35 years. Home-cooked meals are served from 7:30am to 2:30pm, and burgers, hot dogs, ice cream, and drinks are also available. There is live entertainment on Saturday and Sunday afternoons featuring bluegrass, gospel, and country music. The festival offers unique handmade arts and crafts, home-made cakes, pies, and canned goods. Local handmade quilts to be raffled off on the third weekend of the Festival. Raffle tickets are $1.00 each.

Great food and entertainment. Fun for the whole family! For more information call 706-276-3217.

October 2009 • www.400edition.com

Through a Woman’s Eyes

by Martha Hynson

Ready, Set, Read

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read aloud, and the opportunity to use her imagination to make a story come alive, all encourage a child to want to read.

Being read to gives a child the sense that reading is fun. The first and most important lesson little ones should learn about reading is that it is a pleasurable experience. As a parent cuddles a child and reads a story, the youngster begins to associate reading with good feelings. The chance to spend one-on-one time with a parent, the rhythmic sound of the words

Being read to provides opportunities to learn about things in the world that might otherwise never be experienced.

An obvious problem with trying to teach toddlers to read is that they don’t have enough background knowledge to understand what they’re reading. True reading consists of much more than just word recognition. Good readers are able to comprehend what they read. In order to comprehend something, a child must first have a foundation of background knowledge. Building this knowledge by providing varied opportunities for a youngster to experience the world, including hearing stories read aloud, is a much more appropriate use of time than trying to teach rote memorization of words. Talking to a child about a story as you read, making predictions about what might happen next, and connecting the story to things that are familiar to the child, will help him comprehend what is being read. Youngsters who have been read to in this way will incorporate these valuable strategies as they begin reading on their own, enabling them to make sense of what they read.

-ni-mal says a wee voice on the radio. Apparently, this is supposed to be the sound of a baby reading. It is followed by an adult voice assuring parents that their child, too, can learn to read at only seventeen months of age As a teacher, I, too, would like to assure parents of something: Toddlers are not ready to learn to read. Having said this, I would also like to assure parents that this does not mean they should not be thinking ahead to the time when their child will begin reading. In fact, the most important component in preparing a child to read should begin well before she is seventeen months old. The number one thing parents can do to help their children become successful readers is simply to read to them. I cannot overemphasize the advantage that a child who has been read to has over one who has not. Here are a few reasons why.

Being read to provides an opportunity for important prerequisite skills to develop. I have a picture of my son at age two holding a book upside down while “reading” it. It’s a cute picture and a good example of why a child of this age is not ready to read. As children are read to, they begin to form an understanding of some things that may be taken for granted because they are often “caught” rather than “taught” when a child is read to on a regular basis. They include the knowledge of how to hold a book correctly, how to turn the pages from front to back, and that the words on a page flow from left to right and top to bottom. By the time my son was ready to read on his own, he knew these things even though they had never been explicitly taught because he had seen them modeled so often.

Now, let’s imagine, for a moment, a short story we’ll call The Tale of the Toddler Reading.

“A-ni-mal,” says a tiny voice. What do you predict might happen next? Will the child reach out in excitement for the next flashcard? If he does, it will probably be so he can taste, chew, fold, tear, and otherwise explore it in true toddler fashion.

Contrast this with the following tale: “Cat-per,” says a toddler as he

October 2009 • www.400edition.com

snuggles next to his mommy. A book is open in her lap, and he points a chubby finger at a picture of a caterpillar.

“Cat-per” says an excited little voice, later that day, as the same child sees a real caterpillar crawling on a leaf. His eyes widen with wonder, as his mommy lays the little insect in his hand.

“Cat-per,” says the same wee voice as he requests his favorite bedtime story and his daddy settles down to read The Very Hungry Caterpillar for the umpteenth time.

“Calapittar,” says the child, now four years old, as he “reads” to his little sister.

He’s memorized the words, but he turns the pages of his book, looking at the text as if he’s reading.

Catrpilr writes the now six-year-old, in childish print, as he makes up his very own story about an adventurous insect…

What do you predict might happen next in this story?

Richer than I, you will never be, for I had a mother who read to me!

–Source unknown Martha Hynson is a wife, mom, teacher, and freelance writer from Watkinsville, Georgia.

400 Edition

green

from the ground up.

Spruce Up Your Floors

by Bob Merritt

F

inally the time has come for nature to do some sprucing up.

As the leaves exhibit their bright colors and show off their beauty, the time has come for families to decorate their homes inside and out. Soon the countryside will be covered with rolls of hay, and our porches and driveways will be decorated with cornstalks, corn, and pumpkins. We too are getting ready for the festival of seasons.

Soon company will be coming to your home, and now is the time to take a look at your floors. Even if they are new and shine like a new penny, they can look better and be protected with beautiful area rugs. Put your best foot forward by incorporating these rugs into your home for added beauty.

Rug Outlet has been furnishing homes from their Georgia 400 location for years, and now for your added convenience they have opened a new Rug Outlet location in Roswell, at 880 Holcomb Bridge Road, # B-140. The two outlets mirror each other in merchandise and service. You will be happy

to know that the area rug you buy is of the highest quality made in Turkey, India, Belgium, and Egypt.

The quality materials used are wool, nylon, and olefin materials. The rugs are made by hand knitting, hand tufted, and machine made.

The two locations are for your convenience and easy shopping. Save yourself some time by measuring your foyer, living room, dining, and family room.

Don’t forget the long hallway, as well as offices and bedrooms. Rug Outlet assures us that their suppliers will make it a profitable and pleasant shopping experience for you. Take a friend. While visiting one of these locations, keep in mind that no hardwood or carpet is so pretty that it can’t be spiced up by adding a dash of area rugs. Don’t wait for the seasons to change to get ready for the upcoming holiday season.

Rug Outlet is ready to help you get ready now. See their ad in this issue for phone numbers, addresses, and other information, and be sure to tell them you found them in 400 Edition.

designed to respect your site and the environment.

planned to harmonize your lifestyle and budget.

fabricated of enduring products with a lifetime structural warranty.

Read our 17 Green Principles at lindal.com/ green17 Independently Distributed by:

Blue Ridge Cedar Homes Dawsonville, GA

706-216-2511

www.lindal.com/blueridge

10 400 Edition

Andy’s Dawgs are Dawg-gone Good!

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ndy’s Dawgs restaurant opened its doors at 77A Memorial Drive, just a couple of blocks off the historic square in Dahlonega, implementing an idea that Andy Holbrook had thought about since moving to Dahlonega from Forsyth County. Just prior to opening this restaurant, Andy had been a custom home builder, and wife Joanne is a real estate agent in Cumming.

Cooking and establishing a restaurant is nothing new for Andy. His uncle, Jack Holbrook, owned and operated Jack’s Restaurant in Cumming from 1967 to 1977. “My dad had a hardware and sporting goods store on the courthouse square in Cumming, only a block from Jack’s Restaurant, and I was shuttled back and forth to work as needed in the summers and after school; but I loved the restaurant business most.

It really has been a dream of

mine for all my adult life.

Now, since the building boom has slowed and everyone is getting back to basics, Joanne and I decided to resurrect Jack’s legacy and open in Dahlonega because we love Dahlonega.

Dahlonega is a small town, and we love getting to know all the locals. It makes us remember when Cumming was a small town where everyone knew everyone,” says Andy.

Jack’s was a traditional southern meat-and-three buffet, plus a grill with homemade everything. His chili dogs and chili burgers were very popular.

“My chili recipe is based on my Uncle Jack’s recipe and is top secret,” says Andy.

Andy’s Dawgs also features homemade sweet potato chips and Idaho potato French fries.

Fried apple pie with vanilla ice cream is the all-American dessert. “Our food is top quality, at a reasonable price; classic Americana that’s accented by

October 2009 • www.400edition.com

our red, white, and blue color scheme,” comments Andy as he points out the fresh, bright, and airy interior of the restaurant.

“We even feature baseball memorabilia!”

“We’ve incorporated NGCSU blue as one of our colors also.

My daughter Jessica and her husband Matt Tanner graduated from North Georgia. In addition to the college teams, I plan to incorporate the county youth baseball, softball, football, and soccer teams into our displays as we collect items that will represent their teams.”

Andy’s Dawgs is open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 11:00am to 9:00pm, and Tuesday and Sunday from 11:00am to 3:00pm. For more information, call 706-482-0111or visit www.AndysDawgs.com.

If you are looking for some really good food in a fun, friendly atmosphere, drop by Andy’s Dawgs for a tasty meal.

Man Caves and Man Castles

by Tracey Smith, White Interiors

man cave n. A dedicated area of a house, such as a basement, workshop, or garage, where a man can be alone or socialize with his friends. “man cave” is a room in or around the home, where a man can get away from the pressures of daily family life. It is his personal retreat full of his favorite things. Man caves come in all shapes, sizes, and themes but one thing they all have in common is a fair amount of testosterone. Typical essentials to the space most often include massive flat screens, or two or three. Comfortable seating is must. Stereo systems with all the latest technology and bells and whistles are a necessity to most men. Rounding off the space would be objects that appeal to the sense of taste: refrigerators, grills, wet bar.

I had the opportunity to help our client, David Struve of Big Canoe, find his inner manstyle and create the perfect haven for rest and relaxation.

He retired from the construction industry, owning the fourth largest roofing company in the United States, and now it is his time. David’s hobbies and personal tastes are reflected in the cave. We put oils of hunting dogs and fly fishing, and his own objets d’art, on walls and shelves.

Wool plaid and herringbone fabrics complement the leather furniture. Swivel rockers and marshmallow easy chairs of sumptuous leather are arranged in a club seating manner around a chunky custom coffee table. There is plenty

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of iron, from the lighting to the one-inch-rebar spindles along the stairway. Petrified Root American Slate covers the floor and backsplash.

Antique cherry cabinets with an Axel Edge Granite countertop speak all man. David refers to it as the “man castle” rather than man cave.

Why the man cave? About a year ago, I decided to utilize the great space over our detached garage as a place to go and relax. I was tired of smoking cigars outside in the cold. We thought it would be the perfect spot for me to create this room.

What elements must it have? Most important to the room was the central evacuation system for the cigar smoke. My grandson put in a 7.1 Polk Stereo System, seven speakers strategically placed around the room. Air and

October 2009 • www.400edition.com

heat. Big screen with media center and Internet capabilities. I have 250 movies downloaded, I can surf the net, watch movies, listen to any music I choose to download, and watch all the football games, all from the comfort of my chair with remote in hand. A card table. Extremely comfortable seating and manly furniture (no girly rugs). A wet bar and dishwasher. Memorabilia and paintings of my favorite hobbies.

What is your favorite part about the cave? The best part is I can get away and there’s peace. I can listen to music, smoke cigars, or just stare at walls if I want to. It was important to have all the right furnishings to have that atmosphere.

How long did it take to create? It was about seven months from start to finish. I worked with Wayne Bruce, architect and builder, to get the structure and build out. My grandson, David Ian Struve, is a technology wiz and he put in the stereo, computer, and sound system. Then I approached White Interiors for the furnishings and atmosphere.

Do you have a No Girls Allowed policy?

Absolutely not, as long as they don’t mind cigar smoke.

Is there anything we missed? Not yet.

400 Edition

11

Getting Informed —Top Five Useful Tools

A

by Beth Snider

s a web design company, our team receives requests of all flavors, but there are a few tools that seem to be beneficial for almost all companies.

Most of these are related to communication, which I believe is the root of most organizational success. This month, I have reviewed five tools that could make a difference for your business.

and call into the site, either with your computer-attached microphone and headphone or with a standard telephone. Once you have completed both of these steps, you will be a full participant in the meeting. GoToMeeting can be used for free, although we use the upgraded version that costs $50.00/month. www.

GoToMeeting.com

Skype

Google Sites is a wiki, which is basically an online whiteboard, thus allowing your team ongoing, documented communication. Sites is especially helpful for managing project communications and is available through Google Apps.

The most popular wiki these days is Wikipedia. Depending upon the access you’ve been granted, you can either read information or be a full participant in the wiki. There are several default tools available through the wiki, including a blog tool, menus, list pages...enough to manage a business. A wiki can take the place of several very expensive applications and can be made available only to your internal team, or shared with your clients. Google Sites is free. http://www.google.com/apps/ intl/en/business/index.html#utm_ medium=et&utm_source=bizsolapps-en-us-v0_bottom_link&utm_ campaign=en

If your e-mail inbox looks like mine, you’ve probably come to the conclusion that e-mail is probably the most overused and garbage-ridden aspect of the Internet today. This is especially true with those one-line “Got the file” types of messages. Skype is an instant messaging tool, but also allows PC-to-PC voice and video communications as well, meaning that the Jetsons are here and you can view the party with whom you are speaking. Skype is free. www.Skype.com

Go To Meeting

GoToMeeting is an electronic conference room. This tool saves our team a lot of gas and allows quick, easy meetings for geographically-challenged teams. To participate in a meeting requires you to do two steps: log onto the site, so you can see the screen display of the presenter;

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Google Sites

Logo Tournament

Logo Tournament is a very welldone online design shop for custom logos. If your organization is a start-up and needs a new logo, or you just need some update and refresh, this is the site for you. The basic concept: you, the Contest Holder, develop a creative brief by answering a series of questions; you set a prize for the winning logo design; designers from across the world submit entries to your contest; you review, rank, and make modification requests to the designers; you award the prize to the winning entry designer; and finally, the winning designers delivers final files for your use. All design work must be original, so the Contest Holder has full copyright to their logo. The beauty of Logo Tournament is the large number of design styles available for a small investment. The cost of a logo starts at $250—the bigger the prize, the better your logo. www.LogoTournament.com

Online Shopping Cart

If you’re seeking a new way to generate revenue—and who isn’t these days?—an online shopping cart can sometimes be the answer. Whether you are selling products or services, you can almost always increase your sales, or reduce the cost of sales, by offering items online. There

October 2009 • www.400edition.com

are more options available than I can list here, and different needs require different tools, so a good start for your journey is to answer the questions at www.3by400. com/index.php/faqs/124-choosingan-ecommerce-solution.html. Our preferred solution these days is a Joomla site with VirtueMart installed. Both software titles are free, so your cost is dependent upon the services required to implement. www.VirtueMart.com Whether you start out big or small, any one of these tools can offer improved communications, improved efficiency, or increased sales for your organization. If you’ve been reluctant to enter the technology age, one of these might be just the baby step for you. If you’re a technology maven, the tools are still robust enough to prove helpful. For a bit more information on these topics, see www.3by400.com/index.php/faqs. html.

Beth Snider is a founder of 3by400, a North Georgia-based business consulting company that specializes in marketing and automating organizations.

Visit her company’s website at www.3by400.com. Send your IT questions to beth@3by400.com.

Splendor In Landscaping With the splendor of fall upon us, we are stirred within ourselves to do something to help nature out.

As we look at the rocks, land, and trees around us, our imagination draws pictures of what could be done to enhance the beauty of the place our family calls home. Perhaps our imaginary skills are lacking and the skills of a professional landscaper are needed. Tommy Chapman of Chapman Landscaping has the skills to design and install all phases of outside art that will transform your home into a creation you can be proud of.

Tommy Chapman has been creating landscape masterpieces for thirty years. His experienced staff would like to show you a design for your landscaping and give you an idea of what putting their skills to work can produce for you. There is no lay of the land that can’t be transformed into a work of art designed to take everyone’s breath away.

Tommy Chapman is a master at planning landscapes using rock and large boulders together with the proper plant selection.

Imagine the space around your home covered with breathtaking retainer walls, paths, and steps leading to the beautiful natural or created settings scattered around.

The natural beauty of a small yard can be enhanced by a skilled professional. Just think what Tommy could do with enough space to create refreshing pools surrounded by small vegetation, plants, and shrubs. Imagine your own waterfall. It is the simple but

beautiful creations that can come to life for years of enjoyment.

With the economy as it is, many families are choosing to stay close to home, and to improve their home settings in order to enjoy leisure moments in surroundings improved and redesigned

with the help of a professional They can even turn troubling areas into works of art by solving low drainage issues or water run-off problems.

Melissa Chapman, Tommy’s wife, is big on families spending time together. She suggests you let their company do the work while you spend valuable time with your family.

Chapman Landscaping is a complete service provider; so they can mow, rake, and care for your yard and flower beds. If you are too busy at work or play, enjoy life while knowing someone is putting out the welcome mat for you and your visitors. Call Tommy Chapman today (770-534-4849, cell 770- 503-6893) and see what his imagination can come up with.

See their ad in this issue, and tell them you heard about them in 400 Edition.

October 2009 • www.400edition.com

400 Edition 13

Historic Forsyth

by Donald Pruitt

An Unforgettable Teacher

O

ver the last two Historic Forsyth articles, I have related my remembrances of two early Forsyth County High School (FCHS) teachers. In discussions with old classmates and friends, one particular teacher usually stands out as the most unforgettable teacher in our dozen school years. Indeed, a lady who was about two years my senior at FCHS wrote an article later for GUIDEPOSTS magazine.

The article was titled “That Dreaded Term Paper.” The author detailed how her high school English teacher had made sure she knew how to write a term paper correctly. This teacher was an English and French teacher at CHS and FCHS who was often feared by many students over the years at CHS and FCHS from the 1940’s into the 1960’s. This person was Mrs. Ado Coots. If you are interested, Google her name and you will be directed to that article.

Mrs. Coots was a no-nonsense teacher who demanded that her students do their best and show her respect. If they constantly showed no interest in her classes, she told them that they had a “don’t care attitude.” This was usually well deserved by that student. In an instance noted in an earlier article here, a ninth grade male student left her class at old CHS, saying he was going to join the Army. In fact, were he still living, he would admit she was correct. Whether you were studying literature, composition, English structure, or French translation, Ado Coots expected everyone to be alert and doing what we were supposed to be doing. She wanted us to have a wide vocabulary and be wellread. To that end, she wanted all

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her classes to subscribe to Reader’s Digest and she made sure that we all got a rate that we could all afford.

Just as the author mentioned above, I, too, remember how Mrs. Coots tried to instill the importance of English composition, including spelling, outlining, grammar, bibliographies, and correct punctuation. I also quickly realized the importance of her drilling and what I had learned from her classes when just a month or so after graduating, I took English 101 composition at Georgia Tech.

There, I was initially subjected to the arduous task of writing an inclass thesis on a subject selected at random by the very gruff professor.

It was gut-wrenching; however, all the things I had learned made it more bearable and I received a B+. I was very proud of that, as few others made a higher grade.

Writing stories or term papers would never be a problem for me in any college setting, or since. While I probably never told her of this exact experience, I did on several occasions thank her for what she had taught me when I visited at FCHS in my college years. She always seemed to be proud of that.

In looking back, I realize that Mrs. Coots came from humble beginnings. She often spoke of attending Berea College in Berea, Kentucky, which was similar to Berry College near Rome, Georgia, allowing (even requiring) all students to at least work on campus to earn all or part of their way through school. Obviously, this had a profound effect upon the way in which she taught students.

You might liken it to the way a drill instructor or sergeant in the military

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viewed his recruits. Many students feared her because of this; however, those who followed her directions usually found that they did not have to worry about learning and making an acceptable grade if they were willing to put forth the effort. I believe she realized that many of her students might need to do just what she had done in college—work; and she wanted to provide them with a firm foundation.

She also realized that this work ethic would help those who did not attend college. Today’s students could benefit from having teachers and administrators modeled after Mrs. Coots.

NOTE: Several readers have corrected my saying in the June/July issue that the last FCHS Senior Trip occurred in 1959; evidence points to 1962 and something involving a fire poker from Mount Vernon.

Donald (Don) Pruitt is a 1958 graduate of FCHS and a 1963 UGA graduate.

While Don and his wife, Sula Echols Pruitt, have lived outside of Forsyth County since 1963, he has a love of Forsyth County history and genealogy. He still has family here and tries to return “home” from North Carolina, where he has lived for 39 years. Donald is a long-time member of the Historical Society of Forsyth County.

He can be contacted by email at sazabylex@windstream.net.

Leibel on the Law Types of Courts

by Steven K. Leibel

I

n Georgia all lawyers must become members of the State Bar of Georgia in order to practice law. Lawyers are governed by Bar rules, which govern their ethical and professional conduct. The State Bar helps decide the rules, and submits them to the Supreme Court for their approval. The Supreme Court is the governing body over the court judges, and the lawyers.

Most people never see the inside of a courtroom or appear before a judge. For many, the legal process is confusing, and frightening.

Outcomes of cases are uncertain.

Most times it was probably worth making a compromise before filing a lawsuit, and proceeding to trial.

In Georgia there are many types of courts that may address different types of problems that people have.

The Probate Courts handle estate issues and controversies.

When a person dies with a will, that will is filed in the Probate Court.

Estate issues relating to fights over money and property typically are heard in Probate Court, along with guardian actions, and adult custody issues. The Probate Court typically hears traffic violations cases as well. That court is charged with the issuance of concealed weapons permits.

Magistrate Courts hear civil controversies of less than $15,000.

The Magistrate is also involved in the issuing of arrest warrants, and holds probable cause hearings.

They are oftentimes called upon to address nuisance cases, and asked to abate nuisances through the issuance of court orders.

In some cities, a Municipal Court is established. That court has jurisdiction over traffic, and some drug-related offenses, as well as zoning, and other city regulatory rules.

In many larger counties, there is a State Court. That court has civil jurisdiction over most disputes, with the exception of actions like divorces. It also handles misdemeanor cases, rather than more serious felonies. An elected Solicitor works those cases in State Court.

Finally, each county has a Superior Court that handles all civil and criminal actions, and oftentimes reviews the actions of other courts, including

administrative agencies and courts of the State. An elected DA and staff work those criminal cases in Superior Court.

In order to ensure fairness, the State has two other layers of courts.

The Appellate Court reviews the orders and actions of the courts discussed in this article. It generally has direct jurisdiction over most appeals from the lower courts. The Supreme Court has jurisdiction over all claims. In fact, the Supreme Court reviews the actions of the Appellate Court as well as getting direct appeals when certain questions arise, such as those dealing with the Constitution.

These Appellate Courts allow members of the public to view oral arguments made before the court.

Courts are happy for citizens to come to Atlanta and observe their work.

As you can see, the legal system is complicated. As a lawyer I always urge people who have legal issues to discuss them with a lawyer. Hiring an attorney is a very personal choice. When hiring a lawyer, a client should take time to interview that attorney before selecting them. The State Bar of Georgia has a website address which gives members of the public access to some of the information related to the legal profession: www.gabar. org/public_information. This website can be helpful in choosing a lawyer, or in assisting in resolving disputes with an attorney.

Steven Leibel is a Georgia personal injury lawyer with offices in Dawson County and in Dahlonega. He currently serves a member of the Georgia Bar Board of Governors for the Enotah Circuit. He is a Commission member of the Georgia Brain and Spinal Injury Trust Fund Commission. He is AV rated by Martindale Hubbell for his legal ability and ethical conduct. He can be reached at 706-867-7575 or 404-892-0700. Questions about his column can be sent to his email at steven@leibel.com. Nothing in this column can be construed as the giving of legal advice. Legal advice can only be made through an attorney-client relationship. The statements made in this column are for general education purposes only.

October 2009 • www.400edition.com

400 Edition 15

day

Andy’s Dawgs

Located at 77A Memorial Drive, two blocks east of the square in Dahlonega, Andy’s Dawgs serves the traditional American hot dog. Andy’s specialty is the Chili Dawg, made with Angus Beef wieners and homemade chili that is similar to that found at that world-famous drive-in near Georgia Tech. Andy uses a recipe that was handed down from his uncle Jack Holbrook, whose restaurant was a favorite in Cumming in the ’60s and ’70s. Andy’s features fresh Idaho fries, Sweet Potato chips, Angus Burgers, and Yoo-hoo’s. Our slaw dawg is the second favorite. Come by and get a taste of real American tradition. Open 11:00am to 9:00pm Mon., Wed., Thurs., Sat. Open 11:00am to 3pm Tues. and Sun. Also look for us at “Under the Hemlock” near Burt’s Pumpkin Farm.

706-482-0111

Crown Mountain Limo

Cavender Creek Cabins

Need a central location from which to enjoy the host of fall festivals? Or is a cozy romantic retreat more your style?

Our complex is North Georgia’s premier cabin resort. Cavender Creek Cabins are set in the breathtaking natural beauty of the North Georgia Mountains and blend a rustic setting with luxurious accommodations to create a variety of unique atmospheres that will please even the most demanding guest. Our romantic and familysize cabins are situated only four miles from the historic Dahlonega Square.

Most cabins offer a hot tub located outside on a covered porch, overlooking beautiful Cavender Creek or our private pond. Visit our web site and be sure to take our virtual tours. www.CavenderCreek.com - 706-864-7221 or 1-866-373-6307

Cranberry Corners

Since 1995, Cranberry Corners, one of “North Georgia’s Most Eclectic Mercantiles,” has been a cornerstone at 44 North Park Street on Dahlonega’s Historic Square. This family-run store is where to shop for unique gifts, collectibles, antiques, handcrafted items, and custom gift baskets. The year-round Christmas section features an enormous selection. Their motto? “At Cranberry Corners, there are no strangers…Just friends we’ve yet to meet!” Open Monday through Saturday 10:30am-5:30pm and Sunday 12:00pm-5:30pm. www.cranberrycorners.com or call 706-864-6577.

Crimson Moon

The building is registered with the National Register of Historic Places, and has been the host of a weekly pickin’ and grinnin’ for over ninety years, which now occurs 3 to 6 pm most every Sunday afternoon. Live acoustic music is offered most every Thursday through Sunday evenings as well, with some of the region’s/nation’s most renown performing artists taking the stage to offer wonderfully intimate ‘dinner theatre’ style entertainment. Most evening guests are served prior to the concert’s beginning, but an eclectic six page ‘new south’ focused menu and wide choice of dining areas gives patrons plenty of seating/dining options – with live entertainment or without! Hours are: Mon, Tue, & Wed: 11am to 8pm+, Thursday: 8am to 9pm+, Friday, & Saturday: 8am to 10pm+, Sundays: 8am to 8pm+. A delicious Breakfast menu is also served Thusday through Sunday 9am to 11:30am. www.thecrimsonmoon.com - 706-864-3982

The Crimson Moon Cafe is located on the historic Public Square of Dahlonega. It is housed in the circa 1858 Parker-Nix Storehouse, now owned by the proprietress, Dana Marie LaChance, and is the second oldest commercial building on ‘the square.’

Planning a wedding in the North Georgia mountains? Visiting Dahlonega and want to sample the award-winning wines produced here? Well, we provide a service you’ll need.

Call Crown Mountain Limo for professional, timely, and, most of all, safe transportation services. Let us chauffeur you to these events, as well as to proms, birthday and anniversary celebrations, concerts and plays, and much more. Our beautiful black Cadillac limousine will make you feel like royalty, and in our 14-passenger vans and mini party bus, you will be treated like royalty. We are your driving specialists. Call Suzanne at 706867-7372 to reserve your special event with us. Whether you are local, or coming in from out of town, we treat you like family. We are Crown Mountain Limo & Group Transportation, Inc. Don’t drink and drive; let us keep you all safe.

706-867-7372

Dahlonega

Tasting Room

Dahlonega Tasting Room

Right on the square in Dahlonega and featuring Habersham wines for 15 plus years and counting! Habersham Winery produces nationally and internationally award-winning Georgia wines and is one of Georgia’s oldest and largest wineries.

From the vineyard to the shelf, we’ve been producing Georgia’s finest wines since 1983. Habersham’s commitment to quality begins with careful monitoring of both the grapes in our vineyard as well as those we purchase. We welcome you to stop in and visit our wine and gift shop 7 days a week. Monday-Saturday 10:00am-6:00pm and Sundays 12:30pm till 6:00pm. Open Fridays and Saturdays in summer and fall until 8:00pm.

706-864-8275

Be sure to tell them you More Local events & places at

Foothill Grill

The Gold Shop

Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, Foothill Grill offers a great casual dining atmosphere. Guests can dine inside or outside on our deck, (where smoking is allowed). Our budget-conscious menu includes Fresh Fried Gulf Oysters and other great seafood, terrific salads, an awesome Cheese Steak Sandwich, and huge Angus Cheeseburgers. We are proud to serve what the locals are naming the “Best Chicken Wings in the Mountains.”

Foothill Grill is open Tuesday through Thursday from 7:00am until 8:00pm, Fridays and Saturdays 7:00am till 9:00pm and on Sundays 7:00am until 3:00pm. Foothill Grill is located just west of downtown Dahlonega at 995 Morrison Moore Parkway (Highway 9); if you need directions, give us a call.

706-864-0863.

Custom jewelry from the site of America’s First Major Gold Rush. The Gold Shop in Dahlonega has been serving their customers since 1977. Rachel and Leonard Wilkerson had mined gold for a living and even mined over half the gold presently atop the State Capitol Dome located in downtown Atlanta. Their specialty items are rings, pendants, and earrings set with raw natural gold found in the rivers around Dahlonega. Many unique pieces of jewelry and custom work are done with diamond and all colored stones. The shop is located inside Mary’s Mini-Mall on the Dahlonega Square.

Hours: Monday thru Thursday, 10:00am to 8:00pm, Friday and Saturday, 10:00am to 9:00pm. www.thegoldshoponline.com - 706-864-7227

The Fudge Factory

Wylie’s Restaurant, Inc.

A landmark of the historic Dahlonega Square, The Fudge Factory offers handmade and hard-to-find confections and candies.

The Fudge Factory is best known for their fresh fudge in almost every imaginable variety. Other delights include brittles, truffles, chocolate-covered pretzels and fruit, Nuggets (like “Turtles”), pralines, divinity, and toffee. The Fudge Factory has treats like jaw breakers, gummy anything and everything, gourmet pecans, rock candy, taffy, and other traditional candies. In addition to tasty treats to eat on a stroll around the Square, The Fudge Factory offers extraordinary custom boxes and other favors filled with your favorite treats for all types of events. Located on the north side of the square, across Main Street from the Welcome Center. Monday-Thursday 10:00am-6:00pm, FridaySaturday 10:00am-9:00pm, Sunday 1:00pm-6:00pm www.DahlonegaFudgeFactory.com - 706-864-2256

Paul Thomas Chocolates

Dahlonega is a sweeter place, thanks to Paul Thomas Chocolates at 39 South Chestatee Street. Founder of Hoffman Chocolates in Florida, Paul and Lori Hoffman have brought the joy and complexity of making fine chocolate to the North Georgia mountains. Located just off the square, you’ll want to smell and taste the sweet delights at Paul Thomas Chocolates. Specialties include milk and dark chocolate covered pretzels, nuts, and fruit, and truffles. Take home a piece of Dahlonega with a one-of-a-kind, chunky Dahlonega Gold Bar. Stop by to see what top-notch ingredients, a life-time of expertise, and a true passion for candy-making can produce. Open Monday-Thursday 9:30-6:00, Friday & Saturday 9:30-8:00, and Sunday 11:00-5:00. Now you can order online! www.PaulThomasChocolates.com - 706-864-6333

A Dahlonega favorite nestled on the square in the Old Conner storehouse. It is as quaint on the inside as it is on the outside.

Wylie’s is perfect for a romantic dinner or for the entire family. Owners Steve & Connie Wylie invite you to enjoy lunch with a wide variety of sandwiches, salads and homemade soups or one of their chef’s nightly dinner features, including hand-cut Angus steaks and seafood. Join us Monday for trivia, Karaoke on Tuesday, College Night on Thursday, and live music Friday and Saturday. Banquet facilities available. Open Monday-Thursday 8am-9pm; Friday 8am-10pm; Saturday 10am10pm; Sunday 11am-9pm. Down Under hours: Monday-Friday 5pm1am; Saturday 5pm-12pm. www.WyliesRestaurant.com - 706-867-6324

Yahoola Creek Grill

The best dining experience in Dahlonega isn’t located on the Square—it’s found 1.5 miles down S. Chestatee St. at Yahoola Creek Grill! Visitors enjoy locally-sourced, Southern-inspired cooking from their outdoor deck (look for the blue and white umbrellas!), copper bar and upstairs loft. Casual fine dining in a friendly environment.

Serving comfort food done right for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch—Southern favorites, seafood, pasta, sandwiches, soups, salads and daily filet and ribeye specials. Full beer and wine list. All major credit cards accepted. Hours: Mon.-Thur. 11:00am-2:00pm (lunch), 5:00pm-9:00pm (dinner); Fri. and Sat. 11:00am-10:00pm (until 11:00 p.m. on Friday game nights); Sunday Brunch 10:00am3:00pm. Coming into Dahlonega, located 3.8 miles off the end of GA 400 on the way to the Square. 1810 S. Chestatee St. (past Achasta golf course and over Yahoola Creek; find the umbrellas). www.yahoolacreekgrill.com – 706.482.2200

saw them in 400 Edition! www.Dahlonega.org or 1.800.231.5543

Blairsville Sorghum Festival O

n February 6, 1995, Resolution 156 was passed in the Georgia House of Representatives to designate the Blairsville Sorghum Festival as the Official Sorghum Festival of the State of Georgia. As the resolution states, “Sorghum syrup making, which is the subject of the Blairsville Sorghum Festival, is an art flawlessly practiced only in the North Georgia mountains.” Truly, there is no better place or time to experience the joys of this mountain specialty.

The Sorghum Festival returns to Blairsville on the second and third weekends of October (October 10-11 and 17-18) to celebrate forty spectacular years of cookin’ and jarrin’ sweet sorghum syrup. Visitors young and old, from near and far, have enjoyed this oneof-a-kind festival since its beginning in 1969.

The excitement continues this year with a host of new activities, while honoring the traditions that made it famous.

Throughout its forty years, the Festival has seen many changes, most notably in its location. The vendors, activities, and contests that started on the town square were moved to Fort Sorghum, and then to Meeks Park in 2008. Since the move to the open air of beautiful Meeks Park, craft and vendor interest has increased substantially and this year the festival will be showcasing many new, quality exhibitors that are sure to please visitors. Among these are an apple butter maker, cooking out of an old copper kettle; a moonshine still; a working blacksmith; and old-time chicken and dumplings made in a Dutch oven. In addition to sorghum-making demonstrations and syrup sales, returning favorites are candle, soap, and jewelry makers; woodworking sites; and a chainsaw artist.

While the setting has changed, the trademark competitions have not. Those with big appetites and large stomachs have always fared well in the Biskit Eatin’ contest. For the more athletic folks, there are Log Sawin’, Pole Climbin’,

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and Rock Throwin’ competitions. Additionally, regular attendees can look forward to the return of live bluegrass, country, and gospel music.

No matter what your favorite, though, these mountain activities still excite those who are fortunate enough to witness the fun.

This year’s festival will be extra special as the Blairsville Jaycees celebrate the

40th Anniversary of the Sorghum Festival in Blairsville. On Saturday, October 10, special events will include an all-day antique tractor show at the park, and a kick-off parade in downtown Blairsville at 11:00am. The theme of the parade is “1969.” Square dances are scheduled for both Saturdays of the Festival (October 10 and 17) starting at 8:00pm at Meeks Park. A donation of $3/person or $5/couple is requested. Plan to attend as a spectator or to October 2009 • www.400edition.com

join in the fun. A live caller will be present each night and will begin the evening with lessons on the basic steps to square dancing. Additionally, the Good Neighbors Auto Club 25th Annual Car and Truck Show will be held on Saturday, October 17, at United Community Bank.

You couldn’t ask for a more economical, fun weekend event for your family. The Jaycees request a $1/head-count donation for those attending, and parking is free. For those who have never tasted sorghum syrup or simply can’t get enough, free samples are available to all. And be sure to bring the kids, who will enjoy face painting, balloon animals, a spider bungee jump, and more. Additional information can be found at www.BlairsvilleJaycees.org or www.VisitBlairsvilleGA.com or by calling the Blairsville-Union County Chamber of Commerce at 877-745-5789. The Blairsville Jaycees and the town of Blairsville look forward to seeing you during this most beautiful season in the North Georgia Mountains.

The Jaycees believe, as stated in their creed: That faith in God gives meaning and purpose to human life; that the brotherhood of man transcends the sovereignty of nations; that economic justice can best be won by free men through free enterprise; that government should be of laws rather than of men; that earth’s great treasure lies in human personality; and that service to humanity is the best work of life.

We have hand-picked these 12 festivals as being some of the best ones to attend—great music, good food, the opportunity to learn more about our heritage, and support of a worthy cause. The number next to the festival description corresponds to one of the caricatures on the map. Find a few you’re interested in seeing, pack up the family, and follow our map to great fun and adventure! Please be sure to check for schedule changes before you hit the road. Special thanks to Sam Ashworth for creating our fabulous fesitval map.

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Oktoberfest Helen, October 1-November 2 It’s the German word for fun! Well, that may not be the actual translation, but to the folks attending Helen’s Oktoberfest every year, it may as well be. Oktoberfest in Helen may have started out small in the ’70s, but over the years, it has grown into the biggest party in the Southeast. This celebration lasts two months! During the day, browse the shops, relax in a biergarten, or simply enjoy Helen’s perfect weather and beautiful scenery. At night, all paths lead to Helen’s massive Festhalle. Located within walking distance of most hotels, the Festhalle is the spot for authentic German bands, food, beer, and fun. You can either spend the evening dancing the polka and the chicken dance, or you can relax in the adjacent biergarten and enjoy the crisp night air. Be sure to sample the fresh cooked wursts and large variety of German beers. For more information, see www.HelenChamber.com or call 706-878-1619.

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Georgia Marble Festival Jasper, October 3 & 4 Adults $5.00; students 6 and up $3.00; children 5 and under free. Free parking with shuttle in several different locations.

During the first full weekend in October, Jasper, Georgia, and the entire Marble Valley of Pickens County host the annual Georgia Marble Festival. Experience the rich heritage of the area and learn about the marble industry. After the parade, head over to Lee Newton Park where the entire family will enjoy over 100 arts and crafts booths, mouthwatering food, a juried Fine Arts Competition Exhibition, live music, clogging and dancing, a business expo, and a children’s area – and don’t forget the marble industry tour! For more information, see www.GeorgiaMarbleFestival.com or call 706-692-5600.

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Indian Summer Festival Suches, October 3 & 4 Adults $4.00; children under 6 free. Free parking. On the grounds of Woody Gap School, Georgia’s smallest public school, GA Hwy. 60 between Dahlonega and Blue Ridge. Enjoy country square dancing with a live band, crowning of King and Queen, clogging, auction, Mountain Rangers (handto-hand combat demo), mountain music, archery demo, Gaddistown Homemakers, beautiful quilts, lots of pies and cakes, local area history displays, old time turkey shoot, good things to eat, featuring pork BBQ plates and sandwiches, hamburgers, hot dogs, and all the fixins’! Many vendor snacks such as funnel cakes, boiled peanuts, cotton candy, fried apple pies, homemade preserves. Tons of great vendor booths: pottery, quilts, homemade goodies, leather crafts, needlework, folk art, jewelry, furniture, photographs, stained glass, whirligigs, and more. For more information, see www.

Suches.com/festival.htm or call 706-747-2401.

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Cumming Country Fair & Festival Cumming, October 9-12, 16-18 Adults $7.00; students (5-18) $3.00; 4 and under free. Parking is $3.00. Daily Specials offer discounts on admissions and rides for children, students, seniors, there’s even a discount for presenting a non-winning Georgia Lottery ticket on featured days through all 11 days of the event. Down home country fun at the Cumming Fairgrounds! Festival highlights: Midway Carnival Rides, Daily Ground Acts, Petting Zoo, Heritage Village and Indian Village, Living History exhibits featuring a 1900’s rural township reproduction, Grand Concert Lineup, and much more. For more information, see www.CummingFair.net or call 770-781-3491.

Shop at 50 fascinating retail stores.

Enjoy delectable dining options at 17 restaurants. See great shows and discover art treasures. Treat yourself to a day full of history and charm in downtown Dahlonega.

www.DahlonegaMer chants.or g/ Businesses

In the mountains just one hour north of Atlanta on GA-400.

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400 Edition 19

ome explore the scenic mountain village of Dahlonega and the natural beauty of Lumpkin County.

This gateway to the Appalachian Mountains offers lodging to suit every taste and budget—from delightful bed and breakfasts to country inns and mountain cabins. If outdoor activities are more your style, the Chattahoochee National Forest offers exceptional opportunities for hiking, fishing, and canoeing. With the Six Gap Century Ride, the Dahlonega area is the center for bicycling in North Georgia.

Don’t miss the beautiful waterfalls in the area, including Amicalola, the highest falls in the U.S. east of the Rockies. Whatever your pleasure, Dahlonega is the place to be!

www.dahlonega.org 1-800-231-5543 706-864-3711 In the mountains just one hour north of Atlanta on GA-400.

...continued from page 35

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Georgia Mountain Fall Festival Hiawassee, October 9-17 Tickets are $9 with $2 parking; children under 10 free; music shows are included in ticket price. This year’s music includes performers Patty Lovelace, Neel McCoy, Crystal Gayle, and Aaron Tippin. With its mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, there is no better place to be than the North Georgia Mountains in the fall. Each October, the 9-day event features exciting musical performances, educational demonstrations, a flower show, and the ever-popular Georgia’s Official State Fiddlers’ Convention, the Cloggers Convention, and the Miss Georgia Mountain Fair. For more information, including a complete entertainment schedule, see www.GeorgiaMountainFairgrounds.com or call 706-896-4191.

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Sorghum Festival Blairsville, October 10-11 & 17-18 10:00am to 5:00pm each day. Celebrate the art of sorghum syrup making at Blairsville’s most famous event—Georgia’s official Sorghum Festival. Sponsored by the Blairsville Jaycees, it’s the time of year when you can congregate in town to celebrate this wonderful community and its rich heritage. Enjoy watching the parade (11:00am, first Saturday only) as bands, floats, marching units, and other crowd pleasers weave their way through town.

See how sorghum is made, participate in the “Biskit Eatin” contest, Pole Climbin’, Log Sawin’, and much more. Arts, crafts, and good food are plentiful. For more information, see Sorghum.Blairsville.com.

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Georgia Apple Festival Ellijay, October 10-11, 17-18 The Ellijay Lions Club, the Gilmer County Chamber of Commerce, and the cities of Ellijay and East Ellijay invite everyone to come and enjoy the 38th year of the Georgia Apple Festival. There are over 300 vendors with handmade, handcrafted items, as well as many on-site demonstrations of how selected types of crafts are made. This year promises

many new crafts, as well as favorites from past festivals. There is a parade and antique car show each year. The antique car show is held at the Civic Center on October 10. The parade is on the second Saturday, October 17, and begins at 10:00am. For more information, see www.GeorgiaAppleFestival.org or call 706-635-7400.

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Gold Rush Days Dahlonega, October 17 -18 Gold Rush Days are held the third weekend in October, when thousands come to see fall colors peaking and celebrate Dahlonega’s 1828 discovery of gold.

Over 300 art and craft exhibitors gather around the Public Square and Historic District in support of this annual event, and it is estimated that a crowd of over 200,000 visit over the weekend to join in the fun and excitement! Gold Rush Days has been voted one of the Top 20 Events in the southeast by the Southeast Tourism Society. Included in the two-day event are a parade, children’s activities, a fashion show, gold panning contest, wheelbarrow race, King and Queen Coronation, hog calling, buck dancing contest, gospel singing and other live entertainment, wrist wrestling, and delicious food! For more information, call 706-864-7247 or see www.DahlonegaJaycees.com.

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Mountain Moonshine Festival Dawsonville, October 24-25 The festivities start on Saturday at 9:00am with a bike tour, parade of moonshine and revenue cars, many vendors, and three stages with live entertainment around the square in downtown Dawsonville. Car show, cruise-in, and swap meet will be held at the Dawson County Middle School.

Meet many legendary race car drivers. Preregister for the car show by October 10 for entry in a special drawing. All proceeds from the 41st Mountain Moonshine Festival go to KARE for Kids, Inc. “Making the World A Brighter Place, One Child at A Time.” For more information call 706-216-5273 or see www.kareforkids.us.

For more information, see www.Dawson. org or call 706-265-6278.

Georgia Senior Follies Auditions G

eorgia Senior Follies, LLC, is looking for singers, dancers (tap, ballroom, Hawaiian, jazz, etc.), musicians, duos, trios, small vocal groups or dance groups, novelty acts, impersonators, comedians, jugglers, acrobats, magicians, and more. Must be 55 years young or better by April 15, 2010, to be eligible to audition.

Show Dates:

April 15-25, 2010, at the historic Cumming Playhouse in downtown Cumming.

Audition Dates:

Tuesday, October 20, 2009, 7:00pm-10:00pm Saturday, October 24, 2009, 10:00am-3pm Tuesday, October 27, 2009, 7:00pm-10:00pm

Audition Location:

Cumming Playhouse, 101 School Street, Cumming, GA 30040

Please call 678-4556110 for your audition appointment. Be prepared to sing (bring tape, CD, or sheet music).

An accompanist will be available. If you are dancing, wear appropriate shoes and bring your recorded music. Also bring your resume, and headshot, if available.

Don’t miss this great opportunity to do something you’ve always wanted to do but never had the opportunity. Your time is NOW! Last year’s show was a sell-out.

Cotton Patch Gospel I

h ave not had the opportunity to see a Broadway play but that is on my long list of things to do. I have had the chance to go to many smaller theatres, and there is something exciting about seeing the stage, mixing with hometown folks, and seeing performances that made you glad to be there.

Playing to sell-out audiences and receiving rave reviews, Cotton Patch Gospel, presented

by Playright Productions, is back at the Cumming Playhouse this year. If you did not see the performance in 2008, you must make plans to go this October. The first performance is October 8 and the show runs through November 1. This will be a great show for all, including family, church groups, old and young alike!

Written by Tom Key and Russell Treyz, with original music and lyrics by Harry Chapin, Cotton Patch Gospel draws from a modern gospel translation written by Clarence Jordan.

The musical presents the life of Christ, using southern vernacular to tell the gospel story—the greatest story ever re-told. The production

in the yhouse est. 2004 la P g in m um C The Property istoric School, A Cumming 1923 H ming of The City of Cum

by Linda Merritt

poses the question, “What if Jesus was born in Gainesville, Georgia?”

You’ll visit Stone Mountain, the Chattahoochee River, and Atlanta along the way. This production’s unique use of rural Georgia settings, modern times, and upbeat bluegrass music makes for an unforgettable presentation of the gospel. The show received rave reviews in 2008 throughout the state and the music is considered Harry Chapin’s finest work. Audiences will enjoy the moving drama, sideCast of PlayRight Prod uctions’ “Cotton Patch splitting humor, and toe-tapping Gospel” (Standing - left to rig ht): Doug Allen, David music that come together to make Pa yto Davis, Barry Piacente, n, Jared Mike Shetler. (Seated this show a must-see! Get ready to - left to right) Brittany Shewbridge, Jon Williams, Kelly Fl be entertained throughout this high etcher. quality show that features many of the matinee beloved cast members from “Smoke on the on Sunday at 3:00pm. The Playhouse Mountain.” is located at 101 School Street in Cumming. For Call the Cumming Playhouse, 770-781additional information see their web site: www.

9178, for tickets now. Show times are Thursday, playhousecumming.com.

Friday and Saturday at 8:00pm, and there is a

The Cumming Public School was first erected in 1923 at 101 School Street to serve grades 1-11 offering for the first time a High School Diploma in Cumming, Forsyth County, Georgia. Shortly thereafter it burned and was rebuilt within its same brick walls and reopened in 1927. Over the years the school transformed itself as needs arose and served as a primary grade school, middle grade school and in its final operative years as the headquarters of the Forsyth County Board of Education. The City of Cumming acquired the school in 1999 from the Forsyth County BOE and through the efforts of the Historical Society of Forsyth County, Annette Bramblett in particular, the old school was named to The National Register of Historic Places in 2000. The Historic Marker was dedicated in April 2006.

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400 Edition 23

Life is a mirror. We look forward, that’s the future. We look back, remember and learn—that’s a reflection.

There Are Giants Among Us—Dr. Herbert Robinson

W

e are indeed fortunate to have giants among us. I don’t mean the ones like Goliath in the Bible or the one in the fairy story of Jack and the Beanstalk, but regular sized men who are seen through the eyes of respect by those they encounter. These are men and women who walk through this world brushing shoulders with ordinary man and doing normal jobs uncommonly well. I have chosen just such a man to write about, one who has been shown due respect for his accomplishments to his fellowman—or maybe I should say the children. As a educator,

Dr. Herbert Robinson Dr. Herbert Robinson is best known as the Principal at Dawsonville’s elementary school.

Today the school is named after him, in his honor. Many buildings have his name in Dawsonville and Gainesville. He started out as a teacher in Amicalola, where he taught in a single-school system. The classes were in one room, and combined the first through the seventh grades. After serving his country he returned as a principal in Lumpkin and in 1947 became Principal of Dawson County Elementary. He has had a long period of service in the field of education.

Dr. Robinson is a gentle spirit but strong in his godly walk. To those of us who have the honor of seeing him and speaking to him each week at church, he is an inspiration and a good example of how we should conduct ourselves as Christians. Recently I visited Dr. Robinson in the hospital and got Dr. Jim Gaines

24 400 Edition

by Bob Merritt

more encouragement church. than I left with him. His Uncle Herbert, as contribution to education I call him, has been is unending, as is his a hero to so many teachings to an adult in North Georgia. class at The First Baptist His former students Church of Dawsonville. now live around the Dr. Robinson has passed world and all call the 92-year-old mark him blessed. He has and is pushing 93, been an educator though you wouldn’t all his life, teaching Robinson Elementary School, named know it. Every Sunday it in Dawsonville for Dr. Herbert Robinson does my heart good to High school and see him work the crowds at North Georgia as he appears for the church service. Admirers College and University as well as Gainesville and wellwishers flock to him, so I consider College. Later in his career he served in it an honor when he suddenly appears with college administration where his tireless work an outstretched hand. Recently we buried his earned him the honor of having a building brother, C.I. Robinson, and after the service I named after him at Gainesville College, as caught him outside, where we shook hands; well as a middle school in Dawsonville. Just and in his quiet voice he said, “I’m glad you a quick perusal of his life demonstrates his came.” He may have said that same thing to success, and many have sought his advice everyone but it had a special meaning to me. and mentorship as they make their way in this Hopefully you have a Dr. Herbert Robinson in world. your life. The good Lord knows we need them.

However, at least in my mind, people There is something about Dr. Robinson that become heroes for who they are and not we only are allowed to get a glimpse of. I am just what they are. I have known Herbert not sure he knows he has it but he carries it for fifteen years and have watched from a well. He is a good example of a godly man, distance, and since becoming his pastor, have an example for us to aspire to. We expect him watched him from a closer vantage point. In to disavow anything I’ve said about him, and a world of pessimism he is a man of great his wife, Blanche, is the final word on this and optimism. He is determined to be the best he we think she must be an angel to stay attached can be every day. For over 60 years he has to him for the past 71 years. They are both a taught his Sunday School class, and people blessing to us all. The following people have eagerly come each Sunday to hear what this been in touch with this man’s life longer than giant of a man has to say. But even more I have and would like to tell you about Dr. impressive is that he still takes time to speak Robinson as they see him with people, even little children. It does not matter what station in life one finds himself or herself, Herbert always has time to chat and Dr. Jim Gaines—Slipping through the crowd encourage. He is a kind and gentle man who Sunday morning at church I saw my hero. Tall, possesses a power and influence envied by distinguished older gentleman accompanied many.

He has touched the hearts of thousands by a beautiful mature lady. Dr. Herbert and he has blessed me.

Robinson and his lovely wife Blanche have In the days of so many sports and business been members of First Baptist Dawsonville for heroes who seem to be on top one day and several years. As a matter of fact they joined down in the dumps the next, Uncle Herbert as kids and now both are in their 90’s. But has steadily plowed on.

He has never given when Sunday morning comes they are in up, has stuck to his values, and has lived each day to its fullest. He is a real hero, sacrificing his life daily, even in his 90’s, to be a friend, teacher, and mentor to all of us who love him so much. The world would be so much better off if we had a few more Dr. Jim Lay Janice Darnell

October 2009 • www.400edition.com

Herbert Robinsons among us.

Teddy Roosevelt said, “Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs even though checkered by failure, than to rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy much nor suffer much, because they live in the gray twilight that knows neither victory nor defeat.” Herbert has never lived in the gray twilight.

Janice Darnell—The name

Dr. Herbert Robinson and education in Dawson County go hand in hand. Dr. Robinson is noted for his work as a teacher and administrator in Dawson County, as well as his work at the collegiate level as both an instructor and administrator. He has not one, but two educational facilities named in his honor as a public testament to his positive influence as an educator in North Georgia.

Having heard Dr. Robinson’s name throughout my career as a Dawson County educator, I wasn’t formally introduced to him until 2005. He was a guest speaker at the dedication ceremony for the opening of Riverview Middle School, Dawson’s newest school at the time. As a brand new principal, opening a new school building was sometimes a bit overwhelming for me. Dr. Robinson’s words to me on the day of dedication were, “You’ve got a pretty new building here and a lot of good people behind you. Take comfort in that.” I remembered those words and did take comfort in the fact that I work with so many wonderful people.

A few years later, my family joined the church where Dr. Robinson attends. There I have been able to see another side to his teaching and influence. His dedication to teaching continues today as he, in his nineties, still teaches a Sunday school class. I walk by his room and see him not sitting, but standing as he addresses his class. Always impeccably dressed, he is always the professional. I realized the depth of his love of learning and commitment of that learning to memory during a 4th of July Sunday service where he recited the introduction of the Declaration of Independence. He then continued to fill the remainder of his speech with quotes from various historical figures, all from memory. I was privileged to hear him speak at a funeral of a dear friend where he, again, recited poetry from memory. To be able to do this requires dedication to

study and commitment to learning.

Dr. Robinson is a kind-hearted man as he always makes time to speak to those around him. Greeting others with a smile, handshake, and word of encouragement is part of who he is. “For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.” (Acts 11:24) To Dawson County’s beloved Dr. Robinson, a man of integrity, faith, and honor…thank you!

seen in his life. Dr. Robinson has also been given many years for us to observe him and learn by watching him, and for him to faithfully do the tasks the Lord has called him to do. I am honored to be serving with him, and be able to witness commitment to the Lord in action. We should all be so fortunate to have this said about us. He is a friend of God, and a friend to all of us. We are blessed.

do I write about; Dr. Herbert Robinson is one of them. Jesus set the standard for walking with God, and in all my life I have never met a man who does it as well as Dr. Robinson. Hopefully you know such an example and if you do, let him or her know that you see it in them. I have heard it said many times, “I had rather see a sermon than hear one,” and I have personally seen one.

In my walk through life I meet a lot of people, and only a few

Jim Lay—I am a newcomer to

Dawson County (10 years), and so I cannot speak to Dr. Herbert Robinson’s huge contribution to this county and its children and now parents. I am sure this time was an exciting time in his life. I can speak to the last 10 years of a quieter but no less compelling time. So many of us look forward to the days of ease when we have retired, and we long for days when we have no responsibilities and commitments.

I have observed Dr. and Mrs. Robinson in these quiet years. I did notice they came to church every Sunday and sang in the choir until recently. I did notice that Herbert faithfully taught his Bible Class each Sunday morning.

When I came to First Baptist Church of Dawsonville in 2000, he had been teaching there for more than 50 years. A plaque on his classroom commemorates these 50 years, but that date was nearly 18 years ago. So now he has been teaching faithfully for 68 years.

Most of us want to let others do the study, the preparation, the teaching, and the service after a while…but not Dr. Robinson. He always looks at what he can do rather than what he cannot do any longer, and he does all that he can. He is called to teach the Lord’s word and minister in his own special way to his class.

As an observer and fellow teacher, I marvel at his commitment to the work the Lord has gifted him to do, and his fervent energy to continue to serve. We are all actors in some way where others watch us. They watch our speech, our work, our faithfulness, and they see our character in action. We always want our actions to match our words…our lives to match our character, and with Herbert Robinson this is surely the case.

I know the Apostle John was allowed to live a long life so he could demonstrate faithful service and be a witness to all he had

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400 Edition 25

Northside Hospital

To Your Health

by Susan Casella, RN, OCN, Breast Health Coordinator, Northside Hospital

Breast Cancer – What You Can Do To Prevent It They’re words no woman wants to hear… breast cancer. It’s the second most common cancer among women, striking anyone, regardless of age, race, or economic status. Learning you have it can be scary; however, when detected early, breast cancer offers a 96 percent likelihood of being cured.

Early detection is the key!

Take charge of your breast health.

Assess your risk of developing breast cancer and be responsible for getting the proper screenings that may help you successfully win the battle against this potentially deadly disease.

Understand your risk Simply being a woman puts you at risk of getting breast cancer. In fact, one in eight women will develop the disease at some point during her lifetime. Other risks: • Increasing age: The older you are, the greater your risk.

• Genetic risk factors: About 7% of breast cancers are inherited mutations (changes) in specific genes, passed down from either

parent.

• Not having children: Having children later in life, not having children at all, or having your first child after age 30 can increase risk.

• Menstrual cycles: Early onset of menstruation (before age 11) or late onset of menopause (after age 55) increase risk.

• Diet: Obesity (particularly post menopausal) can increase risk.

• Daily alcohol intake: The more alcohol consumed, the higher the risk.

• Exercise: Daily exercise can help to reduce risk.

Get Screened Breasts come in all shapes and sizes.

You need to know what is normal for your body in order to spot changes.

• Get a mammogram. Breast cancer often is found on a mammogram years before a lump is felt.

Women age 40+ should have a mammogram annually.

• Get a clinical breast exam.

Beginning at age 25, a clinical

breast exam should be a mandatory part of routine physical checkups.

• Perform monthly breast self-exam (BSE). BSE allows you to become familiar with the normal feel and appearance of your breasts, making it easier to notice changes. Begin at age 17 and perform it on the same day each month.

Georgia’s leader in the fight against breast cancer More cases of the disease are diagnosed and treated at Northside Hospital than at any other hospital in the state. The hospital’s Breast Care Program offers a comprehensive approach to each patient’s care, including education, screening, diagnosis, treatment, and support.

Every year, Northside performs nearly 80,000 mammograms through outpatient screenings, diagnostic exams, and its mobile mammography unit, ScreenAtlanta. For more information, visit www.northside.com.

Northside Hospital Tennis Against Breast Cancer Northside is making Breast Cancer Awareness Month interactive, with tennis drills, lunch, a fashion show, chair massages, door prizes, and more.

Friday, October 16 8:30am-1:30pm Atlanta Athletic Club, Johns Creek Friday, October 23 8:30-1:30pm Windermere Tennis Club, Cumming Fees are $75 a person or $675 for a team of 10. Proceeds benefit the Northside Hospital Breast Care Program. To register, call 404-831-8389 or e-mail foundationrsvp@northside.com.

A Hungry Bear Can Ruin A Camping Trip W

hether it’s a late summer camping trip or a stay at a cozy cabin in the woods, there’s always a possibility for a black bear sighting or encounter in North Georgia.

With more than 75 established campgrounds and an estimated 1,200-1,500 black bears in North Georgia alone, campers always should be prepared for the possibility of encountering a bear. The key to preventing them from hanging around campsites and rental cabins is to properly store food and trash.

“Bears have the potential to become a nuisance when people feed them—either intentionally or not. When a bear knows it can get a free meal, it’s going to return again and again until eventually it loses its natural fear of humans.

This is when the majority of human-bear conflicts occur and the bear becomes labeled a ‘nuisance,’” explains Adam Hammond, biologist for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division.

Homeowners and business owners in known bear areas can be proactive in lessening human-bear conflicts by taking the following important steps to secure their garbage:

• Concerning dumpsters: Install ‘bear-proof’ dumpsters, attach reinforcing lids or install latch mechanisms.

• Convert to ‘bear-proof’ garbage containers.

• Put garbage cans at the curb on the day of pick-up rather than the night before. If there is no curbside pick-up in your area, take garbage to the nearest disposal site as soon as possible.

• Store your garbage in the garage or another enclosed area.

• Install electric fences around garbage storage areas.

• Remove food scraps from grills and fire pits daily.

• Rinse food cans and wrappers before disposal. Keep garbage cans clean and deodorize them periodically.

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October 2009 • www.400edition.com

Garbage is just one of the many non-natural food items that attracts bears. Birdseed and pet food round out the top three most common types of attractants. Homeowners in known bear areas are advised to bring pet food indoors and remove bird feeders during the spring and late summer.

Known bear areas include the north Georgia mountains, the Ocmulgee River drainage system in central Georgia, and the Okefenokee Swamp in the southeast. However, black bears can and do range over larger areas in search of food, especially in the spring when natural food sources are scarce. Young male bears also are known to roam larger areas in an effort to establish their own territory.

“The best and most effective way to resolve human-bear conflicts is to remove whatever is attracting the bear to the area,” said Hammond. “In most cases, that simply means making trash, birdseed, pet food, and other non-natural food items inaccessible.”

Though the American black bear (Ursus americanus) is now considered the most common bear in North America and the only bear found in Georgia, at one point the species was nearly eradicated from the state due to poaching and habitat loss. Yet, because of sound wildlife management practices, Georgia’s current black bear population is estimated to be between 2,300 and 2,500.

For more information regarding black bears, visit www. georgiawildlife.com, contact a Wildlife Resources Division Game Management office, or call 770-918-6416. You can also visit your local library to check out a copy of an informational DVD entitled, “Where Bears Belong: Black Bears in Georgia.”

Your Vision Source!

Myopia

I

s your vision fuzzy at a distance? Do you have difficulty seeing the TV, a movie, or the board at school? If so, you may be nearsighted. This is a vision condition called myopia, in which close objects are seen clearly, but the distant objects appear blurred.

It is a very common vision condition, affecting about 30% of the US population.

Myopia (nearsightedness) occurs when the eyeball is too long or the cornea (clear cover on the front of the eye) is too curved.

This causes the light that comes into the eye to not focus correctly on the retina (the light sensitive lining at the back of the eye) and distant objects looked blurred.

Myopia generally occurs in school-age children. As the eye continues to grow during childhood and throughout the teenage years, myopia typically progresses until about age 20.

Some research reveals that myopia is hereditary. If one or both parents are nearsighted, there is an increased chance the child will be nearsighted. There is also growing evidence that the development of myopia may be affected by how a person uses his/her eyes. Spending considerable time reading, doing computer work, or doing intense close work may increase your chances of developing nearsightedness.

It is important to have your child’s eyes checked for myopia.

Almost 80% of what a child learns in school is presented visually. It stands to reason then that good vision is essential to learning.

About one in four school-age children has an undiagnosed vision problem that can interfere with learning. Even if your child has passed a vision screening, a

comprehensive eye exam can detect diseases or other conditions.

Vision screenings performed by a school nurse or pediatrician are helpful but can miss many problems.

The loss of visual acuity that results from myopia is measured by numbers. For example, 20/20 generally describes seeing clearly at 20 feet away what normally should be seen at that distance.

People with 20/50 vision must be as close as 20 feet to clearly see objects that those with normal vision can see from a distance of 50 feet.

If you are nearsighted, your doctor can prescribe eyeglasses or contact lenses. These prescription lenses will correct the light rays that come into the eye, to focus images on the back of the eye so that you see clearly. Laser surgery is also another procedure that is a possible treatment for myopia.

To find out if you are myopic (nearsighted) you need to have a comprehensive eye examination by your optometrist.

Please Help Our Animals The Dawson County Humane Society shelter, built by caring pet lovers after six years of fund raising, is run by a non-profit organization. We are now finding it difficult to hold true to our mission of providing a safe shelter to all homeless animals. Even in this present economic climate, we rely on monies from donations and fund raising, plus what Dawson County is willing to budget towards animal control. Dawson County has cut the shelter’s support considerably due to its own declining revenues. These combined factors have left the shelter in considerable financial difficulty.

The supporters of this clean and beautiful shelter are asking that concerned animal advocates consider volunteering some time, or commit to a monthly pledge, so that we can continue to offer a haven for these innocent abandoned animals until we can find them new permanent homes.

We built a shelter in 2007 to house 175 animals, but with the current situation we average 225, and that does not include the large volume of animals in foster homes. Staff has been cut severely to only four, and the shelter is now closed

to the public three days a week. Due to the present conditions we are sadly forced to do more euthanizing as well.

Responsible spaying and neutering of our pets by our county residents would also help us deal with the large volume of puppies and kittens that swell our shelter nine months of the year.

There are low-cost programs available for those in need of financial assistance.

Kay Harris is Dawsonville’s shelter manager and would gladly accept your calls (706-265-9160), pledges, and questions about our situation and current needs. Please help and support our animals!

We will hold our third annual fund raiser, A Toast to the Animals, on Saturday, November 14, from 6:00pm to 11:00pm at the Peach Brandy Cottage, located at 3 Shepherds Lane in Dawsonville. Entertainment will be provided by Butch and The Buckheads.

There will also be a dinner, dance, cash bar, auctions, and a 50/50 split drawing. The cost is $50 per person until November 7, $75 after. Tables of 10 can be reserved.

All donations are tax deductible.

Register online: www.

ToastToTheAnimals.

EventBrite.com.

Dr. Nations practices at Cherokee Eye Group at 591 East Main Street in Canton and at Dawson Eye Group at 5983 Hwy. 53 East, Suite 250, in Dawsonville. She received her Doctor of Optometry degree and her Masters of Public Health degree in 1993 from the University of Alabama. She is a member of the American Optometric Association, Georgia Optometric Association, and Vision Source.

Don’t Forget the Time Change!

On the first Sunday in November, clocks are set back one hour at 2:00am local daylight time, which becomes 1:00am local standard time.

October 2009 • www.400edition.com

400 Edition 27

T

he best events across the Southeast compete to receive the prestigious “Top 20 Events” designation from the Southeast Tourism Society (STS).

Through a nomination process, STS chooses the Top 20 events in the Southeast for each month of the year and publishes this list of winners quarterly. The Top 20 Events publication is sent to more than 1,600 newspapers, magazines, radio stations, TV stations, AAA publications, and others.

To be nominated, the event must a) have at least 1,000 visitors in attendance, and b) be in at least its third year of existence. There is a small fee ($10) per nomination. STS encourages nominees to support their nomination by providing supporting material such as photos, brochures, press releases, news clippings, and evidence on how it helps or supports its community.

Complete rules and nomination applications can be found at www. southeasttourism.org/top20/.

Every quarter STS receives a wide number of submissions. Some months STS gets as few as 25 submissions; in other months they get as many as 60 nominations.

Winter months generally show a smaller number of nominations due to the cold weather outdoors; spring and fall are particularly competitive.

Here are the Top 20 Events for October 2009 from the Southeast Tourism Society: Oct. 2-4, 23rd Annual North Carolina Seafood Festival. Fun for everyone includes free chef demonstrations, Chef’s Tent Open Aire Seafood Market, sailing regatta, SasSea’s Island Playground for Children, golf, fishing tourneys and fireworks,. Morehead City, NC, 252726-6273; ncseafoodfestival.org.

Oct. 2-4, BayFest Music Festival. The Steve Miller Band is just one of 125 musical acts on nine stages this year.

5K run/walk, PlayStation Experience, music scholarships and numerous activities next to beautiful Mobile Bay. Mobile, AL, 251-208-7835; bayfest.com Oct. 2-4, Gretna Heritage Festival.

Mississippi River madness includes headliner entertainment, midway,

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carnival, crafts, beer gardens, and a deliciously diverse display of foods attracting all cultures pledging their international allegiance to good times. Gretna, LA, 504-361-7748; gretnafest.com.

Oct. 2-4, National Storytelling Festival. The most prestigious storytelling event in the country.

Ghost stories, tales of history, humor, and a wealth of cultures, styles and traditions. Features local talents and award-winning professionals.

Jonesborough, TN, 800-952-8392, x281; storytellingcenter.net Oct. 2-4, St. James Court Art Show. Juried fine arts and crafts at this fundraising event to benefit art scholarships features more than 750 artisans and covers three beautiful city blocks in historic Old Louisville.

Louisville, KY, 502-635-1842; stjamescourtartshow.com.

Oct. 2-31, Stone Mountain Park’s Pumpkin Festival. A real treat and a few tricks, too. Backyard Circus, pie eating contests, scavenger hunts, parades, costume contests, crafts in the pumpkin patch, and breathtaking fall foliage. Stone Mountain, GA, 770-413-5058; stonemountainpark.com.

Oct. 3, Celebration of Cultures.

Global Villages honor and explore the diversity of Nashville’s multicultural fabric. Exotic foods and ethnic music, dance, storytelling, and crafts. More activities for kids, tweens and teens this year.

Nashville, TN, 615-340-7501; celebrationofcultures.com.

Oct. 3-4, The Cotton Pickin’ Fair.

Lovely little community attracts over 30,000 with a return to the early 1900s at the Farmhouse, Cotton Gin, and Cotton Warehouse.

Mountain music, crafts, and farming demonstrations. Gay, GA, 706-5386814; cpfair.org.

Oct. 8-10, Tybee Island Pirate Fest.

Pirates capture more than your attention at this fun event featuring parades, costume contests, music and dancing, grog, grub, and treasure to discover at the Thieves Market. Tybee Island, GA, 912-7865393; tybeepiratefest.com.

Oct. 8-11, 38th Annual National Shrimp Festival. Zatarain’s sponsors this humongous beach bash featuring shrimp cooked every which way, non-stop music, Children’s Activity Village, openair marketplace, arts and crafts, sandcastle competitions, and more.

Gulf Shores, AL, 251-968-4237; nationalshrimpfestival.com.

Oct. 10-11, Taste of Atlanta.

Appetizing adventures in Hotlanta – the Southeast’s coolest city. Celebrity chefs, wine tastings, entertainment, all-the-rage restaurants, and avant garde eateries. The trendy event perfectly blends Atlanta’s incredible energy and ethnic diversity.

Atlanta, GA, 404-875-4434; tasteofatlanta.com.

Oct. 8-11, Museum of Appalachia’s Tennessee Fall Homecoming. Log cabin village celebrates pioneer life with costumed artisans demonstrating traditional skills, from pottery and rail-splitting to cooking and quilting, along with music, dancing, and storytelling.

Norris, TN, 865-494-7680; museumofappalachia.org.

Oct. 17, 30th Anniversary of Bridge Day. A celebration of life on the New River Gorge. We have a bridge.

We have gravity. We jump. It’s that simple. Come fall with us this fall.

Fayetteville, WV, 800-927-0263; officialbridgeday.com.

Oct. 8-18, Georgia National Fair.

More than 400,000 enjoy this fabulous fair known for its cleanliness and safety. Thrilling rides, carnival games, circus, livestock shows, horsey events, non-stop concerts, fireworks, and laser displays.

Twentieth anniversary. Perry, GA, 478987-3247; georgianationalfair.com.

Oct. 9-11, Goats, Music & More Festival. The Fainting Goats originated in lovely Marshall County, where you’ll delight in the Nannies & Kids pageant, Goatly Goblins contest, goat yodeling, BBQ, chili, entertainment, karaoke, and fireworks. Lewisburg, TN, 931-3591544; goatsmusicandmore.com.

Oct. 9-11, The Great Georgia Air Show. Showcase of Military Airpower, Civilian Aerobatics, Commercial Aviation, and Historic Warbirds just southwest of Atlanta. Ground activities include “Kids Port,” entertainment, local foods and flight simulators.

Peachtree City, GA, 678-2160282; thegreatgeorgiaairshow.com.

Oct. 9-11, Heritage Days 2009.

Historic homes, the picturesque town square, and quaint shops provide a warm welcome for this community celebration. Music, storytellers, dancing, pioneer skills demonstrations, traditional foods, kids’ events, and crafts show.

Rogersville, TN, 423-272-1961; rogersvilleheritage.org.

Oct. 10-11, Kentucky Guild of Artists & Craftsmen Fall Fair.

Glass, ironworks, jewelry, pottery, woodworking, photography, and fine arts on display and for sale, along with fireworks, local foods, music, and hands-on activities for kids. Berea, KY, 859-986-3192; kyguild.org.

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Oct. 22-Nov. 8, State Fair of Louisiana. The biggest livestock show and carnival in the state promotes agricultural contributions and provides fun for over 400,000 fair-goers. Rodeo, carnival foods and games, rides, and live music.

Shreveport, LA, 318-635-1361; statefairoflouisiana.com.

Oct. 24, The Barbecue Festival.

Rides, carnival games, Corvette show, 50-ton Pig-Themed Sand Sculpture, headliner entertainment, 300+ juried artisans and crafters, pig races, kids’ fun, and succulent barbecue complemented by Childress Vineyards’ Fine Swine Wine. Lexington, NC, 336-9561880; barbecuefestival.com.

Southeast Tourism Society promotes leisure travel, sustainable tourism, and the importance of the tourism industry in 12 Southeastern states.

Members represent many facets of the travel industry and work cooperatively to strengthen the region as a travel destination. STS was founded in 1983 with eight member states—Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Kentucky, Virginia, West Virginia, and Arkansas joined later.

STS has two membership meetings a year, a summit in D.C. that promotes working with D.C. and tourism, and a week-long seminar called “STS Marketing College” that educates those who work in the industry; it is considered the premier educational program for the tourism industry in the U.S. More information on Southeast Tourism Society can be found at southeasttourism.org as well as escapetothesoutheast.com

Weather’s Effects Upon Mood: Myth or Reality?

Mind and heart mind & heart

I

thought it might be interesting to investigate the long-held popular belief that weather can have significant effects upon one’s moods or emotions.

It would seem to make intuitive sense that warm, sunny weather would promote generally more positive mood states than cold, rainy weather in most individuals. However, since Americans on the average spend a whopping 93% of their time inside, researchers have had a difficult time trying to actually pin down the relationship between changes in weather and emotional mood states. A number of earlier studies had suggested that most people tend to feel a little more “blue” in the winter and a little bit better in the spring. However, in order to get the benefits from warm, sunny weather, University of Michigan researchers found that you must spend at least 30 minutes outside. These same researchers also found that there appears to be an optimal temperature for mood: it’s 72 degrees Fahrenheit, or about room temperature. Straying too far from this temperature, either warmer or colder, tends to cause mood to decline. This phenomenon is perhaps best exemplified in Seasonal Affective Disorder, officially known in mental health circles as Seasonal Pattern Specifier.

This latter term can be applied to several different mood disorder diagnoses (Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, etc.) when there has been “a regular temporal relationship” between the onset of the depressive episodes and a particular time of the year (such as fall or winter) and when a change in mood from depression to either normalcy or mania also occurs at a characteristic

time of year (e.g., depression disappears in the spring).

A more recent (2008), comprehensive study in Germany led by Jaap Denissen of Humboldt University in Berlin branched out beyond just sunny and cloudy and looked at temperature, wind, sunlight, rain and snow, air pressure, and length of day. In contradiction to conventional wisdom, the researchers found that daily temperature, wind, sunlight, precipitation, air pressure, and how long the days were had no significant effect on positive mood. They also found the following: • Temperature, wind, and sunlight were observed to have an effect on negative mood. Sunlight seemed to play a role in how tired people said they were.

• Wind had more of a negative effect on mood in spring and summer than in fall and winter.

• Sunlight had a mitigating effect on whether people reported that they were tired on days when it rained.

• People were so varied in how they responded that researchers wrote that a mood-weather link may still exist for individuals. When days became shorter, some people’s moods mirrored that, while others actually felt more positive feelings.

The authors speculated that those who begin to get darker moods as the days get shorter may in fact be people at higher risk for Seasonal Affective Disorder. However, the authors

October 2009 • www.400edition.com

Mark P. Feinsilber, Ph.D.

acknowledged that the study’s participants were not asked how long they spent outdoors, which, as indicated earlier, seems to make a difference in how much emotional benefit one derives from warm and sunny weather.

One final point made in the University of Michigan study bears mentioning. Even though weather has the potential to impact your mood, that doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to let it determine it. In other words, if you are feeling emotionally controlled by the weather, first acknowledge that it is just a feeling. If you let go of the feeling of giving your power away to anything external, including the weather, you discover that how you feel is always up to you.

Mark P. Feinsilber, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years’ experience treating adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families; and is a founding member of the Behavioral Health Association of Forsyth (BHAF). His practice is located at 6030 Bethelview Road, Suite 401, in Cumming.

Appointments or other consultations can be arranged by calling the administrative office at 770-205-5760, and more detailed information can be found at www.APSDoc.com.

400 Edition 29

Fun 400 by

Courtesy of ActivityConnection.com. Answers on page 35.

Put On Your Dancing Shoes Unscramble the letters to reveal common types of dances.

1. BAURM ____________________

14. IOGOEB OGIOWE _____________ ____________

2. UERQAS ANNCGDI ____________ ___________

15. NEEEVNSI AZTWL _________________ _______

3. NEUTMI ________________

16. EIUJGBTRT _________________________

4. NYBNU OPH ___________________ _________

17. DLYNI OHP ___________________ __________

5. PCSOUAL _______________________

18. BMOMA _____________________

6. OAENLTCLRSH ___________________________

19. SPKQTCEUI ______________________________

7. ASBSO VNAO ____________ ____________

20. UNDOR GCDINNA ____________ _____________

8. ACH HAC __________ __________

21. GIWNS __________________

9. GGGNLCOI ___________________________

22. LUHETS _______________________

10. GTONA _____________________

23. GIIIANVR ELER _________________ ________

11. RYUKET OTTR ________________ __________

24. BAMSA ________________

12. OFX RTTO _____________ ______________

25. AOPKL _______________________

13. NRBA AEDCN ___________ ________________

Comma Momma From the Mailbag

S

everal readers have been kind enough to share their thoughts recently about language use or misuse. Here are some selected issues of theirs that you might relate to.

Ironic vs. coincidental. One reader wrote, “One night several years ago my husband and I were watching the local Atlanta news and in the one hour we watched, the word ironic was used three times, and not one time was the situation ironic.” Ironic and coincidental are not synonyms. Here’s the difference: It’s ironic that jogger Jim Fixx, who encouraged people to jog as a way to stay healthy, died of a heart attack while jogging. On the other hand, if two cars are involved in an accident and both drivers are 59 years old and fat and bald, that’s merely coincidental.

I vs. me. A reader offered these examples of this annoying misuse of I: “The ball was thrown to Bill and I.” “This trip was a treat for my wife and I.” In each case, the I should be me.

You may have read our discussion here some months ago about the similar misuse of the reflexive pronouns (“Give it to Joe Ann and myself.”) and about the easy test to determine whether myself is correct: Leave out the other person’s name and see if it makes sense.

Let’s try it here, leaving out Joe Ann: Since

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by Nancy Wright you would never say “Give it to myself,” you would therefore never say “Give it to Joe Ann and myself.” “Give it to Joe Ann and me” is correct.

The test is exactly the same in the I vs. me situations: If you leave the other person out of the phrase, how would you say it? Obviously, “The ball was thrown to me” (not “to I”).

But many people feel that the “me” sounds uneducated here.

Changing the correct me to the incorrect I, or the correct me to the incorrect myself, is what’s often called hypercorrection. One linguist defines hypercorrection as “making a change from something that is grammatical to something that is not, because of an overanxious attempt to apply a rule without fully understanding how it works.” Check out Wikipedia.org’s entry on hypercorrection for more.

Fish is. A Blairsville reader passed along something she’d read somewhere: “Most fish now consumed in America is raised like most beef....” She wondered why it was Most fish is instead of Most fish are, but took a guess that fish was perhaps being used as a collective noun. That’s at least part of the answer, since in American English a collective noun typically October 2009 • www.400edition.com

takes a singular verb, as in “The class is away on a field trip.”

But I think there may be something else at work in the reader’s example as well. There, fish is being used to mean fish the food, not fish the swimming creature. Since animal-flesh-as-food nouns (beef, pork, veal, lobster, and the like) are typically singular, singular fish was correctly used as the subject of the sentence.

Wait, what?

Exactly. You caught that, I see. What’s causing the slight stumble in our reading of the original example is the fact that the word fish can be either singular or plural. The usage is clearer if we switch to a different food animal, one with a name that has both a singular and a plural form. A sign saying “Chicken is on sale today” refers to chicken-the-food and probably means you’re at the grocery store. “Chickens are on sale today” means chicken-the-animal and suggests you’re at the hatchery. Happy shopping.

Nancy Wright does occasional editing and proofreading, and formats technical books for a specialty publishing house in California. She and her husband live in White County; you can contact her at adairmill@windstream.net.

Events!

Tip: Keep in mind that 400 Edition is now released on or about the 1st of each month. Your event needs to be submitted via our web site 30-45 days prior to your event date and no later than the 20th of the month. We have to have all the information requested on the submission form, so be sure your form is complete. Just go to 400edition.com and click “Submit an Event” on the home page.

Halloween—October 31

Alpharetta

Gardening Presentation

October 3 from 11:00am to noon at Scottsdale Farms. Seminar on fall vegetablegardening. For more information, contact monica singer at 770-777-5875 or scottsdalefarms@ bellsouth.net.

Hay Rides

October 3-4, 10-11, 17-18 from 11:00 to 5:00pm at Scottsdale Farms, 15639 Birmingham Hwy, Alpharetta, GA 30004. Hayrides and face painting in our pumpkin patch. For more information, contact monica singer at 770-777-5875 or scottsdalefarms@ bellsouth.net.

Fall Decorating

October 10 from 11:00 to noon at Scottsdale Farms, 15639 Birmingham Hwy, Alpharetta, GA 30004. Fall decorating seminar with Barb, BJ, and Sandi. For more information, contact monica singer at 770-777-5875 or scottsdalefarms@bellsouth.net.

Gardening Presentation

October 17 from, at Scottsdale Farms, 15639 Birmingham Hwy, Alpharetta, GA 30004. 10:00 to 11:00am, planting trees and shrubs organically with Bonnie Satterthwaite; 11:00am-Noon, attract birds to your backyard with Buddy and Patricia; 11:30am-12:30pm, making fall combination planters with Bonnie Satterthwaite. For more information, contact monica singer at 770-777-5875 or scottsdalefarms@ bellsouth.net.

5th Annual Canine Assistants Pumpkin Patch

October 10-11 at the American Legion Post 201 in Alpharetta, at 201 Wills Road. October 10 from 10:00am to 4:00pm and October 11 from 12:00noon to 4:00pm. Featuring pumpkins of all sizes for sale along with Indian corn, gourds, corn stalks, and painted Halloween yard signs. Children¹s activities including:

inflatables, pumpkin decorating, a bake sale, face painting, carnival games, and a creepy candy stand. There will also be safety demonstrations by the Alpharetta Fire and Police departments including their K-9 units. All proceeds benefit Canine Assistants, a non-profit organization that trains service dogs to enhance and improve the lives of children and adults who have physical disabilities, seizure disorders and other special needs.

Blairsville

Indian Summer 32nd Festival

October 3-4 from 9:00am to 5:00pm at the Woody Gap School on GA Hwy 60 in Suches. Arts, crafts and all day entertainment including clogging, a turkey shoot, archery demo, , auction and fantastic food. Free parking, Admission $4 with all proceeds going to Woody Gap School, Georgia’s smallest K-12 school. Festival admission $4, free parking. On Saturday, the “Run Above the Clouds 10K” begins at 9:00am, and Square Dance with live band is at 8:00pm.

More information at www.suches.com.

Library Benefit Auction

October 10 from 5:00 to 9:00pm at the North Georgia Technical College, 545 Meeks Avenue off Highway 515.

Friends of Union County Library fundraiser for fixtures and furnishings for the expansion and renovation of the Library. Both silent and live auctions. Music performances. Dinner available. More details at www. foucl.org or contact Joanne Olson, blairsvillejo@yahoo.com.

Quiltfest 2009

October 16 & 17 from 9:00am-5:00pm at the North Georgia Technical College, 545 Meeks Avenue off Highway 515. Misty Mountain Quilters Guild proudly presents this open show to promote and encourage the art and appreciation of quilt making with a NQA-judged exhibit to spotlight the work of local and

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Events, regional quiltmakers. Silent auction, boutique, raffle quilt, challenge quilt, and door prizes and vendors.

Admission $5. More information at www.mistymountainquiltguild.com.

Theatre, 171 E. Main Street, in Canton.

Tickets are $7.00 available at the door and may be reserved by calling 770-591-0282. Online tickets are not available for this show only.

Fall Hoedown

Cartersville

October 17 from 2:00pm to 9:00pm at Vogel State Park. Celebrate autumn’s arrival with a 2:00pm cakewalk, 4:30pm hayrides, 5:00pm chili and drinks for sale, 6:30pm campfire and dancing, and finally at 8:00pm a professional storyteller around a bonfire. $5 parking. 706-745-2628.

Hometown Halloween on the Square October 31. Bring the kids and join the fun! Downtown Blairsville hosts a spectacular trick-or-treat event complete with candy, costumes, and contests! www.downtownblairsville. com

Blue Ridge

Paws in the Park

October 24 from 10:00am to 2:00pm – Down Town City Park sponsored by the Humane of Society Blue Ridge (501c3). A pet parade through downtown kicks off the day of fun featuring a pet costume contest, pet photographs, exhibitors, arts & crafts, food, dog demonstrations, a rabies clinic, micro chipping, games, and music! All proceeds go to the Humane Society of Blue Ridge and other county pet rescue organizations. For additional information, please email pitp@tds.net. www.humanesocietyofb lueridge,org 706-632-4357.

Saturday, Oct 3 from 7:30pm to 9:30pm at the Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site. Step back into ancient times as you walk along a torch-lit path and illuminated mounds. The 3/4mile tour includes walking 134 steps to the top of 67-feet-high Mound A, the temple mound of the Etowah chief. $2.50-$5. 770-387-3747.

The Battle of Allatoona Pass

October 3-4 from 10:00am – 4:00pm at Red Top Mountain State Park and Lodge. Walk the trails, visit the Star Fort earthworks, and follow the old Tennessee Road just as the soldiers did in 1864. Explore daily life in the tent city, and see rifle and cannon demonstrations. This event is located near the park at Allatoona Pass Battlefield. $5 parking. 770-975-4226.

Halloween Hayrides

October 16, 17, 23, 24, 30, and 31 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm at Red Top Mountain State Park and Lodge. Take a “spooktacular” hayride and then listen closely as storytellers bring ghosts and goblins to life around a campfire. Suitable for all ages.

Reservations required. $5 parking. 770975-4226.

Cumming

Canton

Family Health Expo

October 4 from 1:00pm-4:00pm, hosted by Northside HospitalCherokee and held on the hospital’s front circle. The community is invited to attend this free event - to meet Northside’s medical staff and learn about the hospital’s wide range of programs and services. For more information, please visit www. northside.com.

“Hansel and Gretel”

...like you’ve never seen it before!

October 9, 10, 16, & 17 at 7:30pm and matinees on October 11 and 18 at 2:30pm. All performances are at CTC’s new home, Historic Canton

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Torch Light Tour of the Ancient City

Cotton Patch Gospel

October 8 through November 1- Cotton Patch Gospel, Cumming Playhouse, 101 School Street, Cumming. Thursday, Friday and Saturday-8:00pm, Sunday-3:00pm.

See www.playhousecumming.com or call 770-781-9178.

Boulder Dash

October 17 at 9:00am. Runners and walkers alike will be challenged by the environment as they dash through a quarry in Cumming, one of two Quarry Races in the United States. The race starts at Northside Hospital-Forsyth and continues across a highway into the quarry. At the finish line, Lafarge will host a Fall Fest inside the quarry property. Race t-shirt design contest,

October 2009 • www.400edition.com

awards for fastest team, fastest homeowners’ association, fastest physician and many more. Open to runners and walkers across the state. Register online at www.active. com or at www.BoulderDash5k.com.

For more information or to become a sponsor, contact the Chamber at cfccoc@cummingforsythchamber.org.

Greek Festival

October 17-18 at the Saints Raphael, Nicholas and Irene Greek Orthodox Church of Cumming off Bethelview Road in South Forsyth County.

Featuring a Greek village on the 15 acre church property, the event offers visitors a unique opportunity to share in the rich history of the Greek culture and it’s beautiful traditions. Enjoy free live music and entertainment by the Lefteris Wireless Boozooki Band.

Period costumed Hellenic Dancers will perform various traditional Greek dances throughout the day and night of the two day event. Curious shops with art, jewelry, and other Aegean items will compliment the culinary offerings and entertainment. A very fun kids play area will also be in the park-like setting plus traditional Greek coffee and liqueurs may be found at the Kafenion (cafe-neon).

Traditional village cuisine will be served at the Greek restaurant, or Taverna. Wonderful Souvlaki (soovly-kee), Pastitsio (past-eet-sio), Gyros (ye-rrr-ohs) and other authentic food is also on the full menu. At another shop in the village, delicious, better than donuts, Loukoumades (loo-koo-mahdez) will be cooked in front of you, then hand dipped in honey. Festival pastries, including Baklava (honey, clarified butter, puffed pastry layers) and much, more will be explained and available in one of the many outdoor shops.

The Joy of Connecting

October 20, from 7:00pm-9:00pm at The Columns at Pilgrim Mill.

This is a relaxed dinner/networking gathering for women business owners, entrepreneurs, other professionals that are seriously interested in strengthening and growing their business. All participants receive the opportunity to present their business and receive an attendance roster. No membership requirements.

Reservations and pre-payment required. Contact Annette at Annette@PaintedLadyEnterprises. com or visit our website at www.

Events!

TheJoyofConnecting-CummingGA. com.

Scoot for Youth

October 24 from 8:00am to 1:00pm.

The Forsyth County Family YMCA will host its first Scoot for Youth to assist the Partner With Youth campaign meet its $80,000 goal for the year. The YMCA is a charitable organization open to people of all abilities, ages, beliefs, cultures, faiths, and incomes. Financial assistance is available based on need. For more information, visit fcy.ymcaatlanta.org or call 770-888-2788.

The Mood Swingers

November 6-8, and 13-15 at the Historic Cumming Playhouse.

Enjoy music from the Fifties, Disney, Country, Mamma Mia! Featuring Those Two Guys from the Georgia Senior Follies. See qwww.moodswingersatlanta.com for more information. For Tickets: www.playhousecumming.com or 770-781-9178

Dahlonega

6th Annual Literary Festival & Writer’s Conference

November 7-8. The Dahlonega Literary Festival is a celebration of books, authors, and literacy. This year’s festival will include a literary IQ quiz and scavenger hunt, in addition to book signings and readings. The aspiring Writer’s Conference will be held on Saturday, November 7, and includes sessions by author, publisher and literary agent Sheree Bykofsky; marketing expert Steve Savage (author of Guerilla Business Secrets); and mystery author William Rawlings, Jr. For a list of each day’s activities or to sign up for the Writer’s Conference, contact Sharon Bacek: sgbacek@ windstream.net.

Appalachian Jam

October 3-31 from 2:00pm – 6:00pm at the Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site. Listen to the sounds and songs of yesteryear. North Georgia’s mountain music singers and pickers will appear on the grounds of the historic Dahlonega Gold Museum every Saturday. Enjoy acoustic and old-time strings as the sounds of yesterday fill the air. 706-864-3513.

Handicapped Accessible

7th Annual Kiwanis Talent and Fine Art Showcase

October 3 at 7:00pm at the Historic Holly Theater. Come enjoy an entertaining and awesome variety of talent that would rival American Idol and Britain’s Got Talent! Talents will range from painting, singing, sculpting, dancing, drawing, twirling, acting, juggling, you name it. This event benefits Children’s Charities of Lumpkin County. For reservations call 706-482-8258.

Honk!

October 19-20, Lumpkin County High School Drama Club Presents “Honk!” a family-oriented Broadway musical about the ugly duckling. Advance admission is $5 and Door admission is $7. Advance admission can be obtained by contacting Mr. Pilgrim at 706-864-6186 ext. 1015. This upbeat modern musical is sure to be a hit for the entire family.

Annual Chili Cook Off

October 31 from 11:00am - 2:00pm.

Don’t miss Dahlonega’s Annual Chili Cook Off Contest located in Hancock Park in Historic Dahlonega. Ticket Information: Admission: $10, Children under 10 free. Includes: Chili tasting, cornbread, drink & dessert! Vote for your favorite entry...Rain or Shine!

Tickets available in advance or at the gate! For more information, call Nicole (NOA) at 706-864-1306, ext 6 or the Visitors Center at 706-864-3513.

Be a sponsor of this popular event, get your contestant application or sponsorship brochure from the Visitors Center or visit www.dahlonega.org.

Travel to Savannah, Jekyll Island and Beaufort, SC

Deposit of $75 due by November 7, 2009. Leave from the Lumpkin County Senior Center at 8:00am on March 8 and return March 12. $439 covers the cost for transportation, 4 nights lodging, 8 meals, tours and gratuities.

Call Rhonda at 706-864-2358 for information.

Silver Sneakers

Tuesdays and Fridays from 9:30am10:30am. Silver Sneakers is a nationwide exercise program for seniors. Join us at the Lumpkin County Senior Center for muscular, strength, range of motion exercise.

Call 706-864-2358 for information.at the Lumpkin County Senior Center, Dahlonega. Call 706-864-2358 for more information.

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400 Edition 33

Events, Events,

Velma Beach Annual Spaghetti Supper

November 3 from 4:30pm-7:30pm at the Dahlonega Park & Rec Building on Riley Road. Sponsored by the Dahlonega Woman’s Club, Inc. Adults $8.00, Students $5.00 (including NGCSU), Children under 6 Free with adult purchase. Take-out available.

Tickets available at door.

Word Chasers

Every 2nd Tuesday of each month at 1:00pm at the Lumpkin County Senior Center. Book discussion group for October is “The Man Who Mistook His Wife for A Hat” by Oliver Sacks.

Bible Study

1st and 4th Thursdays of every month at the Lumpkin County Senior Center at 10:30am.

Moms’ Club Halloween Party October 30 at 10:30am at the Lumpkin County Senior Center.

Cardio Class

Every Thursday, beginning October 22 at 3:00pm at the Lumpkin County Senior Center.

Dawsonville

Hallelujah Harvest Festival

October 31 from 6:00pm-9:00pm at The Father’s House. This annual anticipated family friendly event is great fun every year. The fun includes games for all ages, huge inflatable slides, moonwalks, prizes, face painting, horse and buggy rides, food and candy. This event is free and open to the community.

See ChooseChrist.com/calendar. php?event=1792 for more information

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or contact Rita Bruce, 706-216-3248 x13.

A Toast to the Animals

November 14 from 6:00pm-11:00pm at the Peach Brandy Cottage on 3 Shepherds Lane in Dawsonville, the Dawson County Humane Society celebrates its Third Annual Fund Raiser Event. Featuring Butch and The Buckheads, Dinner, Dance, Cash Bar, Auctions, and 50/50 Split drawing. $50 per person, *$75 per person after November 7. Tables of 10 can be reserved. All donations are tax deductable. For more information contact Isabelle Smock at iwsmock@hotmail.com

Duluth

“A Christmas Carol” Train Tour

October 6 from 9:00am to 7:00pm at the Southeastern Railway Museum, 3595 Buford Highway, Duluth. For more information see: www.christmascaroltraintour.com.

Golf Tournament

October 8 at St. Marlo Country Club in Duluth. Abba House 3rd Annual Golf Tournament, “Swing a Club, Save Her Life.” If you would like to ask questions or make a donation or register over the phone you may call 678-208-2000, ext 107 between 9:00am-5:00pm, Monday -Friday.

Flowery Branch

Life is good® Pumpkin Festival

October 24 from 1:00pm to 6:00pm at Sterling on the Lake, 7004 Lake Sterling Blvd. Festival-goers will enjoy delicious

food, music, old-fashioned games, costume parade, pumpkin carving activities, hay rides, a silent auction and more. Admission to the festival is free, and monies raised through purchases and donations this year will benefit the Life is good Kids Foundation, which supports Project Joy and Challenged Child and Friends. For more information, visit www.newlandpumpkinfestival.com/ sterling or call 770-967-9777.

Gainesville

BNI Open Visitor’s Day

October 1 from 8:00am to 11:00am at First Baptist Church, 751 Green Street. Meet many local business professionals and learn the about the best source for marketing your business – word of mouth. Experience how to not only become colleagues, but partners in success. For more info about BNI - www.Referrals4Life. com. $5 meeting charge. To RSVP or for more information, contact Annette Walden at 770-887-6792 or Annette@ PaintedLadyEnterprises.com.

Helen

Southern Appalachian Mushrooms

October 3 from 10:00am to 12:30pm at Smithgall Woods. Learn why fungi are critically important to the survival of our ecosystem. Following a slideshow and lecture by botanical photographer Debra Davis, participants will have an opportunity to participate in a noncollecting identification foray. Register in advance. $5 parking. 706-878-3087.

Fat Tire Festival

October 9-11 at Unicoi State Park.

SORBA (Southern Off-Road Bicycle

October 2009 • www.400edition.com

Association) and White County are working together to design and implement child safety programs and biking trails throughout White County, Georgia. Enjoy Group Rides, Ladies’ Ride, Night Ride, Kids’ MTB Rodeo, 12/6 Hour Bike Race, Obstacle Course, Scavenger Hunt, Bike Games, Demo Bikes, Live Music by 5 Wide, Shriners, and Clowns. See www.helenfattirefestival.com for more information.

Fall Celebration

October 10 from 12:00pm to 4:00pm at Smithgall Woods. Enjoy the natural beauty of the season with pioneer skills exhibits, hayrides through the park, traiditonal craft vendors, mountain music and hands-on activities for kids. $5 parking. 706-878-3087.

Visiting Artist Series at Unicoi

Saturdays and Sundays until November 15, 2009 at Unicoi State Park and Lodge.

Several talented artists and craftspeople from Georgia and surrounding states will demonstrate and have samples of their work for sale. The program lasts each weekend from Memorial Day through mid-November. $5 parking.

800-573-9659, ext. 305. Handicapped Accessible

Evening Concert Series

Saturdays until Nov 14, 2009 at Unicoi State Park and Lodge. Some of the best musicians in the area perform a variety of music, from Appalachian Mountain to bluegrass to Southern gospel.

“Pass-the-hat” donations. $5 parking.

800-573-9659 ext. 305. Handicapped Accessible

Events, Events!

Jasper

2009 Heart & Soul Festival

October 17 from 9:00am to 4:00pm at Holy Family Episcopal Church 202 Griffith Road Jasper, GA. 30143.

Come Celebrate at the 2009 Annual Heart & Soul Festival and help benefit several local charities! Enjoy Family Fun, Live entertainment, Giant Yard Sale, Coffee Bistro, Barbeque, Silent Auction, Children’s Activities, Bake Sale, Book Sale, & More! Free Admission & Free Parking. For more information call 770-293-4525 or see www.holyfamilyjasper.org.

Milton

Antique and Art Festival

October 3 from 9:00am–5:00pm (rain or shine), Crossroads at Crabapple Antique and Art Festival in the Historic Community of Crabapple, 790 Mayfield Rd. Free parking and admission. A tradition since 1969, this one day only outdoor festival features 50 American Country Antique Dealers from 6 states and 50 juried artists. The setting is under old oak trees surrounded by buildings built in the 1800’s in the Community of Crabapple, 25 miles north of Atlanta.

An old- fashion festival with roaming musicians, food, and fun benefiting the Boy and Girl Scouts of America and other non-profit organizations.Children’s activities, magician, storyteller hosted by the Goddard School from 2:00pm4:00pm, Home Tour. Contact Sally Rich-Kolb at 770-448-3860 or kolbt@ bellsouth.net. www.cityofmiltonga.us.

Roswell

The Great Flea Fling

October 3 from 8:00am-5:00pm at Hembree Farm Historic Site, 775 Hembree Rd, Roswell, GA. 30076.

[Rain Date Oct. 10th] Enjoy this fabulous flea market featuring: Books, Antiques, & Handmade items, Good Morning Bake Sale & Children’s Activities from Days Gone By! A Roswell Historical Society event, all proceeds benefit the Hembree Farm Historic Site, a circa 1835 Farmstead.

Macbeth

October 2-4, 9-10 - at Barrington Hall.

770-640-3855.

Riverside Sounds Concerts

October 3 from 7:30pm to 9:00pm at Riverside Park. A great gathering of family, friends and young people.

Bring chairs or blanket and a picnic and

enjoy some of the area’s best musical artists. Free. www.roswellgov.com or 770-641-3705.

Graduation Ballet

October 3 and 4, presented by Metropolitan Ballet at Roswell Cultural Arts Center. 678-297-2800

Roswell Photographic Society October 5 and 19 at 7:00pm at Roswell Presbyterian Church;. www.roswellphotosociety.org

Wednesday Walks

October 7, 14, 21, 28 at 9:30am.

Wednesday Walks in the Garden at Barrington Hall; 770-640-3855

A Celebration of Culture

October 9. Celebrating Roswell’s arts and cultural organizations and their programs and events in conjunction with national Arts & Humanities Month. ncludes the issuance of an updated Directory of Roswell’s Arts & Cultural Organizations produced by the Historic & Cultural Affairs Division of the City of Roswell. www.roswellgov.com or 770-641-3705

adults.” www.rosewatertheatre.com or 770-640-5500.

Once Upon A Mattress

October 10 – 25, presented by Rosewater Theatre on the Cabaret Stage.

If you thought you knew the story of “The Princess and The Pea,” you may be in for a walloping surprise! Chances are you’ll never look at fairy tales quite the same way again. Presented

by Rosewater’s fabulous “young

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Atlanta Wind Symphony Concert

October 11 at 3:00pm at Roswell Cultural Arts Center. Celebrating 30 years of AWS 770-641-1260 or www.atlantawindsymphony.org

Put On Your Dancing Shoes Answers from page 30.

TANGO TURKEY TROT FOX TROT BARN DANCE BOOGIE WOOGIE VIENNESE WALTZ JITTERBUG LINDY HOP MAMBO

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Courtesy of ActivityConnection.com.

Historic Roswell 5K Race

October 10, begins at 9:45am on Mimosa boulevard, prior to the Youth Day parade.13th Annual Historic Roswell 5K Race for runners and walkers. 770-641-3760 or register online at www.active.com

Frances McGahee Youth Day

October 10 - 59th Annual Frances McGahee Youth Day Parade and Celebration. Roswell comes together to celebrate the youth of the community with a parade, lots of special activities.

Parade begins at 10 :00am and an outdoor festival will be held at Roswell Area park following the parade.

770-641-3705

Fall Farm Days

October 10 from 11:00am – 3:00pm at Smith Plantation Home. Experience a day in the life of a 19th century farm.

Artisans will demonstrate crafts and there will be gold and gem panning, open hearth cooking, bobbing for apples, cake walks and other fun events.

770-641-3978.

Georgia Philharmonic Concert

October 10 at 8:00pm at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center. 770-664-7255 or www.georgiaphilharmonic.org

October 2009 • www.400edition.com

400 Edition 35

Events,

Alive After Five Street Party

October 15 in Roswell’s Historic District. Great shopping, restaurant specials and live music highlight the evening. www.aliveafterfiveroswell.com

Bird Walk

October 17 from 8:00am – 10:00am with Master Birder, Stacy Zarpentine at Chattahoochee Nature Center. General Admission (members free). 770-992-2055 or www.chattnaturecenter.org

Halloween Hikes

October 17, 23, 24 and 30 at Chattahoochee Nature Center. An annual family tradition for 24 years! Meet nature’s creatures in costumes along the lighted trail. An evening full of fun. 770-992-2055 or www.chattnaturecenter.com

Taste of Roswell

October 17 in Historic Town Square. Sample the delicious cuisine of Roswell restaurants while enjoying outstanding musical entertainment from the bandstand in historic Town Square. Admission is free; Taste tickets range from $.50 - $3.00. www.visitroswellga.com or 770-640-3253.

Atlanta Balalaika Society Orchestra

October 17 at 7:30pm. A concert of Russian folk music, song, and dance at Roswell Cultural Arts Center. The internationally acclaimed Russian ensemble, Barynya, will perform dazzling dance sets and songs of Russia, Eastern Europe and the Gypsy nations. The Atlanta Balalaika Society performs with dorma virtuoso Angelina Galashenkova-Reed. Tickets are available in advance by calling 404-325-2449 or in the lobby one-hour prior to the performance. Adults $20; Seniors and students $18 (check or cash accepted).

Friends Indeed!

October 18 - Atlanta Concert Band, “Friends Indeed!” A tribute to several long-time friends of the Atlanta concert Band and a celebration of 35 years of making music. Free admission.

770-594-6232.

Antique Road Show

October 18 from 2:00pm – 5:00pm at Bulloch Hall; reservations required.

770-992-1731.

36 400 Edition

October 2009 • www.400edition.com

Deck the Halls

October 20 – 21 from 7:00pm – 9:00pm at The Chandlery. Holiday entertaining and decorating seminars with Dusky Turner of Chicago’s Turner Design Group. RSVP or additional information 770-993-5962 or info@chandlerygifts.com

Alpharetta Roswell Newcomers Club

October 21 at 10:00am at Hembree Park Recreation Center. 678-318-1442 or arnewcomers.org

Don’t Dress For Dinner

October 23 – November 14, presented

by Rosewater Theatre on the Rendezvous State. The plot is a recipe for hilarious confusion with more twists than a corkscrew. Rated PG-13 for mild adult content. www.rosewatertheatre. com or 770-640-5500.

An Evening at The Manor

October 23 – 31 - Spend an evening at THE MANOR, if you dare.

Bloodcurdling screams, scenes, and spirits. Adjacent to East Roswell Park at 9100 Fouts Road in Roswell. Doors open at 7:30pm (weekdays check in until 10:30pm and 11:30pm on Fridays and Saturdays). $10 per person. For the little ones (or those less brave), a much less scary experience will be held from 4:00pm – 6:30pm on October 24.

770-641-3705.

Christopher O’Riley

October 24 - The Atlanta Chopin Society presents Christopher O’Riley in concert at Roswell Cultural Arts Center.

770-641-1260.

One Enchanted Evening

October 24 at 6:30pm at the Atlanta country Club. To benefit Georgia Ensemble Theatre, honoring KimberlyClark Corporation and Robert Hagan. Tickets are $125 per person.

Individual & Corporate sponsorships also available. 770-641-1260 or www.get.org

A Fall Affair In The Garden October 24 from 10:00am–3:00pm at Barrington Hall; 770-640-3855 or www.southerntrilogy.com

Fanfare For A New Day

October 25 at the Roswell United Methodist Church. Fanfare For A New Day Contemporary Choral Composers

Events!

presented by Michael O’Neal Singers at 3:00pm. 770-594-7974 or www.mosingers.com

Fall Container Gardening

October 27 at 10:00am at the Bill Johnson Community Activity Building at Roswell Area Park (10495 Woodstock Road). A free event presented by the Roswell Garden Club. 770-650-4607 or www.roswellgardenclub.com

Local Celebrity Roast

October 29 from 6:30pm-9:30pm at the Gardens at Great Oaks located at 786 Mimosa Boulevard in historic Roswell.

The Roswell Historical Society invites you to attend a fun and entertaining evening as they lampoon local Roswell residents at the Roswell Historical Society Celebrity Roast. $30 per person, or $50 per couple, includes a drink ticket and hors d’oeuvres. Call 770-992-1665 for more information or to purchase tickets.

Beasties at Barrington

is limited, so register in advance. $5 parking. 706-754-7981.

Historical Rock Hike

Saturday, October 17 at Tallulah Gorge State Park. Travel back in time on this strenuous hike where you will learn about rock formations named in the 1800s. Register in advance. $5 parking.

706-754-7981.

“Wails To Trails” Haunted Hike

Friday, October 23 at 7:00pm to 9:00pm at Tallulah Gorge State Park.This is a delightfully spooky way to meet some of the colorful characters and events of the railway’s past. This is a .75 mile walk along the existing bed of the Tallulah Falls Railway. Reservations are required. Rain date will be Saturday, October 24, 2009. $2-$3 plus $5 parking.

706-754-7981.

Young Harris

Fall Arts and Crafts Festival

October 31 from 8:00am–10:00am at Chattahoochee Nature Center with Master Birder, Stacy Zarpentine. General Admission (members free). 770-992-2055 or www.chattnaturecenter.org

November 27-28 from 9:00am to 5:00pm at Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa. Juried event featuring 15 different categories of crafters & artists with unique items for holiday gift giving There will also be a room set up for the children to come out and make their own holiday craft. There is NO CHARGE to attend the festival or to participate in the children’s program. For more information, contact Karen Rogers at 706-379-4606 or krogers@brasstownvalley.com.

Tallulah Falls

Brasstown, NC

October 30 and 31. Two nights of fun and slightly eerie folktales. 770-640-3855 or www.southerntrilogy.com

Bird Walk

Full Moon Canoe Outing

Saturday, October 3, 2009, 6:00pm to 8:00pm, Sunday, October 4, 2009 6:30pm to 8:30pm, Monday, Oct 5, 2009 7:00pm to 9:00pm at Tallulah Gorge State Park. Enjoy a relaxing paddle around Tallulah Lake as the full moon reflects off the water. This ranger-led event is an exciting way to get out in the evenings and enjoy nature. Space

Fall Festival

October 3-4 from 10:00am–5:00pm at the John C. Campbell Folk School. Over 200 craftspeople selling handmade items, craft demonstrations, music and dance on two stages, kids¹ activities, food and drink. Admission: Adults $5; Kids 12-17 $3; free under 12. For more information, visit www.folkschool.org/fallfestival or call 1-800-FOLK-SCH.

Don’t Forget the Time Change!

On the first Sunday in November, clocks are set back one hour at 2:00am local daylight time, which becomes 1:00am local standard time.

October 2009 • www.400edition.com

400 Edition 37

400 Edition Wining & Dining

Knowing Wine

by Nancy Forrest

“A meal without wine is like a day without sunshine.” ­—Jean-Anthelme Brillat-Savarin, The Physiology of Taste (1825)

Washington and Oregon Wine Regions

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Oregon Wine Regions:

here are many, many vineyards in Oregon and Washington, each with a different climate, soil, and elevation that produces unique varietals of grapes.

Washington is mostly desert plateau, and Oregon boasts rich fertile soil. These soil conditions in particular make distinctive wines.

Both Oregon and Washington are known for Pinot Noirs. Though the Washington region is warmer than Oregon, both support the milder climate needed for lush Pinot Noirs. Washington wineries excel in Cabernet and Merlots, while Oregon is becoming known for outstanding Pinot Noir.

The number of wineries in both states is increasing rapidly, along with a growing (and valuable) wine-tourism trade.

Oregon

Umpqua Valley Applegate Valley Rogue Valley Columbia Gorge Willamette Valley

Washington

Wine of the Month

Most Oregon wine regions lie in valleys between the southern Cascade Mountains running through the state and its Coastal Range to the west. It is a cool region and hosts several varieties including Pinot Gris, Riesling, Chardonnay, and especially Pinot Noir. This area of the country has long summer sun and allows for full fruit and aroma complexity.

The largest wine region is the Willamette Valley in the northern region. Willamette Valley Vineyards is the best known vineyard in Oregon. Even though this state is known for its Pinot Noirs, the increasingly higher quality of its white wines offers the best value from this area. Fortunately, many great values can still be found for under $20 a bottle.

Oregon hosts white Rieslings, Pinot Gris, and Chardonnay. Other white grapes of note are the Viognier, which is floral and goes well with lamb and game. Muscat, a lowacid grape that produces a sweet wine, goes well with desserts or can be the dessert itself.

Pinot Gris from this region is great to sip in summer. It is fruity and tart and a fantastic food wine. It goes well with salmon, oysters, fresh fish, and spicy Asian and Indian dishes.

If you like Pinot Noir, you’ll probably like Pinot Gris.

Dry Rieslings are yet another great white wine of Oregon. They too pair well with seafood, pasta, roast pork, spicy lasagna, and smoked chicken.

Cloudline, Pinot Noir, Oregon 2007 Strawberry and raspberry.

Earthly. Soft tannins.

Available at: The Wine Store

8455 Holcomb Bridge Road Alpharetta, GA 30022 (770) 641-1900 www.thewinestoreinc.com Visit BIN 75, The Wine Store’s own tasting room next door.

Store Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-9pm

Oregon’s Chardonnays work well with white seafood and light shellfish pasta/ linguine dishes. The Chardonnay makers tend toward stainless steel for fermenting instead of oak. This mean the wine is less buttery, with a fresh, crisp, fruitier flavor.

Pinot Noir is one of the oldest grape varieties to be cultivated for the purpose of making wine. It has characteristics of peppermint and black cherry, tomato, mushroom, and barnyard. It is soft and velvety in texture and is not a heavy wine.

Longevity in the bottle tends to reach its peak at five to eight years. Pair with plain roast beef and lamb, as well as salmon and swordfish.

October 2009 • www.400edition.com

Washington wines range from big reds (Merlots and Cabernets) to delicate whites.

The state is located at approximately the same latitude (46ºN) as some of the great French wine regions of Bordeaux and Burgundy. Its arid climate and long daylight hours during growing season make the land of eastern Washington prime for grape growing. Ideal growing conditions and quality grapes are the secret to Washington’s successful wine industry.

The state produces over 20 varietals.

Washington’s leading red varietals are Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, and Sangiovese. Its leading white varietals include Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Chenin Blanc, and Viognier.

The state hosts both some of the largest (Chateau Ste. Michelle and Columbia Winery) and some of the smallest boutique wineries in the country. Washington makes many wonderful high-quality wines in the $10 price range. Columbia Crest produces some great Merlots in this price range. The Hogue Cellars, Covey Run, and Stimson Lane vineyards are also located in Washington.

In total, Washington produces more wine grapes than any other state in the U.S. except California. It is the fourth most important fruit crop in the state behind apples, cherries, and pears. Some 460+ wineries on 30,000 acres in Washington distribute wines to all 50 U.S. states and in approximately 40 other countries, and generate $3 billion annually.

Washington Regions:

Puget Sound Columbia Gorge Yakima Valley Tri Cities Walla Walla Spokane Area Northeast Washington Columbia Cascades

by Linda & Bob Merritt

Restaurant Reviews for the GA 400 Corridor The Foster House

305 West Main Street | Cumming, GA 30040 770-887-9905 | www.foster-house.com Fare: Southern home cooking | Price: Moderate | Atmosphere: Charming and homey

I

f you are tired of going to the same restaurant time after time, you should go to The Foster House in Cumming. You will enjoy dining in one of the four dining rooms, tastefully restored and decorated as they might have been in the late 19th century. The house was built in 1887

by Henry and Mamie Foster, who lived there with their seven children. If you listen closely you may hear the laughter of children from days gone by.

Stop in for breakfast Monday through Friday from 7:30am to 10:00am. If you are in a hurry to get to work, order one of the many breakfast sandwiches. If time is not a problem enjoy eggs, bacon, sausage, French toast, a tasty omelet, or biscuits and gravy.

On Sunday you will find a lunch buffet from 12:00pm to 2:30pm. Monday through Friday, lunch is served from 11:00am to 2:30pm. There

is an extensive menu for lunch. The chicken salad sandwich on a croissant served with their sweet potato chips is a delightful meal and not too heavy for mid-day. There are several salads— Mandarin Orange Salad, Shrimp Caesar Salad, or a Chicken Salad Plate. There are also daily specials to choose from, like meatloaf, country fried steak, thyme baked chicken with dressing, and roast beef. You will not have a problem finding what you want to eat, and everything on the menu is good eating. Remember to save room for dessert made fresh every day.

If you have a special occasion, celebrate it at The Foster House. The beautiful historic house is a wonderful facility for a wedding reception either in the house or out back on the beautiful brick patio under the huge old pecan trees.

The next time you want to get some friends

or family together for breakfast or lunch, take them to The Foster House.

Patricia and Amanda will make you feel at home and make your meal a pleasure.

Bread Bowl Pasta

Real Men Cook—Bread Bowl Pasta Basic pizza dough for 12” pizza 1-quart ovenproof bowl 2 cups penne pasta 2 Italian sausages 1 cup marinara sauce 1/4 cup of butter, melted 1 cup mozzarella Prepare pizza dough per directions and let it rise. While the dough is rising, boil water and cook the pasta al dente; drain. Lightly flour and then start working the dough into the bowl.

Push down on the center and then

work your way out, leaving a oneinch edge that will form the bowl.

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees.

Sauté the sausage. Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the heat and slice it so that it can be incorporated into the sauce. Toss the pasta with the marinara sauce and the sausage. Brush the edge of the pizza crust with the butter.

Ladle the pasta mixture into the center of the bowl until you have a heaping mound. (The pasta will appear to be too high, but the dough

by Patrick Snider

will bake up around the edge of the pasta.) Then cover the top of the pasta and bread with the mozzarella cheese.

Place the pasta bowl on a preheated pizza stone in the center of the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes.

If you don’t have a pizza stone, place the pasta bowl on a cookie sheet and place the cookie sheet in the preheated oven. Since the pan will be room temperature, you may have to add 2-3 minutes to the baking time.

October 2009 • www.400edition.com

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