400 Edition W h a t ’s
u p
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N o r t h
November 2010
G e o r g i a
Faith, Courage, and Duty
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November 2010 Carole Lee, Founder/Creative Design Vanessa McBrayer, Account Manager Linda Merritt, Founder/Sales/Executive Editor Bob Merritt, Director of Sales Aaron Snider, Account Manager Beth Snider, Founder/Sales/Creative Design Nancy Wright, Proofing
Contributing Writers: Anne Amerson
Steven Leibel
Dr. Mark Feinsilber
Dr. Joyce Nations
Nancy Forrest
Patrick Snider
Martha Hynson
John P. Vansant, MD
Staff Writers: Carole Lee
Aaron Snider
Vaness McBrayer
Beth Snider
Bob Merritt
Nancy Wright
Linda Merritt 400 Edition is published monthly in Dahlonega, Georgia, with distribution in six 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... O
ur mountains and valleys are really showing off their magnificent colors right now. Each time I drive by one of those beautiful orange or yellow trees, I am in awe of what God does with the colors this time of the year. In my mind I know the leaves will soon be gone and the trees will be bare, but they are preparing for their glorious flowers and new leaves in the spring. Life is like that in some ways. We enjoy the moment, but it may be fleeting and we may go through some things we don’t like. Just hang in there; there is a greater day coming. You just have to believe that things will get better. It’s time to reset our clocks again. Remember that they changed the dates for doing that three or four years ago. Instead of changing at the end of October, it now changes on the first Sunday in November. So you will need to turn your clocks back before you go to bed on November 6. There are many exciting things going on in North Georgia during November. Don’t miss the Veterans Day Celebrations going on in most cities on November 11; the Capitol Christmas tree coming into Dahlonega; several arts and crafts events to help you with your Christmas shopping; and many other events listed in our magazine.
I want to remind you once again to vote on Tuesday, November 2. This is the time you can make a difference. The staff of 400 Edition wants to wish you and your family a very Happy Thanksgiving. This is the time for families to be together. Be thankful for what you have. If you have a happy, healthy family, you have much to be thankful for. Just look around you at the broken homes, abusive relationships, lost jobs, lost homes, and addictions beyond belief. So gather those you love around you and tell them how much they mean to you—not just on Thanksgiving but all year round. Until next month…stay happy!
On the Cover T
here are many kinds of journeys we take throughout our lives. Some are short, some are long, some boring, some exciting; but they all take us from one point to another. The young man on our cover, John Wade III, is taking his second journey to Afghanistan in a few days. The Bible he holds in his hands has been on many journeys, starting back in 1918. See the story of these different journeys on page 16. Read about the men who took the Bible into battle and then brought it back home to Forsyth County. John was home on leave when this picture was taken, so he is not in uniform. But he is a proud member of the Marine Corps. He is one of many who are fighting for our freedom, freedom we should be so thankful for. We are safe in our homes, anticipating the Thanksgiving holidays; but there are those who have given up that comfort to fight for their country. Let us remember them in our prayers each day, praying that they come home safe and sound. We want to thank Norman’s Landing for providing the setting for our cover photo. And many thanks to John and his family for their time, and for all the information that was provided for this cover and the story inside. 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
November 2010 Volume 7, Issue 6
Don’t forget to vote on November 2!
Columns
4 Through a Woman’s Eyes
5 Health Matters
9 To Your Health
10 Your Vision Source 11 Comma Momma 15 Leibel on the Law 18 Reflections 22 Mind & Heart 24 Historic Forsyth 25 Shades of Scarlett 30 Knowing Wine 30 Real Men Cook – Pecan Pie Cheesecake 31 Good Eating – Appalachia Grill
A list of major distribution points in North Georgia can be found online at www.400edition.com. November 2010 • www.400edition.com
400 Edition
Through a Woman’s Eyes
by Martha Hynson
Laughing at the Future She is clothed with strength and dignity and can laugh at the days to come (Proverbs 31: 25).
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or most of the women I know, this verse would have to be rewritten to say something like, “She is clothed with guilt over past mistakes and worries about the days to come.” Listening to a group of women share their hearts this past summer in a study about the Holy Spirit, it was obvious that worry over the future was a common denominator among those present. That’s not too surprising when you consider many of the prayer requests that were expressed each week. One member of the group was going through an unwanted divorce; another had a child with an undiagnosed illness. One woman’s husband had lost his job and another’s husband was struggling to overcome an addiction. How can we help but worry when there are so many things to worry about? As we talked in our group, someone commented that the phrase “Do not fear” occurs so often in scripture precisely because God knows we will struggle with fear. He understands and He doesn’t take our struggles lightly. As Beth Moore says in her book So Long Insecurity, “He knows it’s scary to be us.” So how does the Proverbs 31 woman manage to laugh at the days to come? I used to think it was because she was so organized and prepared, as the preceding
verses imply. The problem with this line of thinking is that, in reality, no matter how good a wife and mother a woman may be, there is still no guarantee that bad things will not happen in her life. Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble…” But He also said, “Take heart, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). I believe the only way the woman from Proverbs could laugh at the days to come was by looking past this life and focusing on eternity. This hope is what enabled her to live in strength and dignity rather than worry and guilt. In his book Heaven, Randy Alcorn writes, “If we build our lives on the redemptive work of Christ, we should all be optimists. Why? Because even our most painful experience in life is but a temporary setback. Our pain and suffering may or may not be relieved in this life, but they will certainly be relieved in the next.” Alcorn paints a picture of heaven as a rejuvenated earth which will include all the good things we love in this life. I thought of his book recently when I saw a commercial depicting a scene in a lush paradise with all sorts of animals playing happily together. It made me think about what heaven might be like. The slogan said something like, “Life can
The Home Depot METs Q uite often we hear about folks who truly make our world a better place to live. One group that deserves that award: the fellows from The Home Depot’s Merchandising Execution Team. Based out of The Home Depot in Gainesville, they handle eleven stores. Their job is to set up all the merchandise you see when you walk into the area’s Home Depots. But this group does other things for folks who are in need. On July 1, 2010, Stacey Baird of Dawsonville went into the hospital for surgery. Some things did not go as planned and Stacey became paralyzed from the waist down. She finally got out of the hospital
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on September 27, 2010. She and her husband Michael came home to a place that was not outfitted for a wheelchair and didn’t have the facilities to handle Stacey’s needs.
be a lot more fun when you take the scary out of the future.” It was an ad for an insurance company. The truth is that all the insurance in the world can’t protect us from pain in this life, but truly knowing Christ can give us strength to deal with whatever comes our way by giving us hope of a joyous future. Instead of spending money trying to insulate ourselves against troubles in this world, it seems to me it would be wiser to invest all we have in preparation for eternity. I doubt if the Proverbs 31 woman had an insurance policy, but she had something infinitely better—something that really could “take the scary out of the future.” Missionary Jim Elliot, who was killed while trying to reach the Waodani people of Ecuador with the message of Christ said, “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose.” I think the Proverbs 31 woman knew this truth and was able to walk in strength and dignity as a result. If we put our trust in Christ, we can do the same. Martha Hynson is a wife, mom, teacher, and freelance writer from Watkinsville, Georgia. Check out her blog at marthahynson.blogspot.com.
by Bob and Linda Merritt
Scott Baird, Michael’s brother, donated his time and talent to redo the garden tub in the Bairds’ bathroom so that Stacey could shower easily. He also made some doorways wheelchair accessible. The METs heard about this
November 2010 • www.400edition.com
situation and saw a way they could help. Gene Coal, manager of the team, got a list of materials together and submitted it to the corporate offices of The Home Depot. Everything was approved, and the work was started. The Home Depot stores in Dawsonville and Dahlonega donated the material and time. As you can see in the photo, a ramp was built to the Bairds’ front door so that Stacey can wheel her chair into the house. Pictured: Robert Davis, Russell Fuller, Ethan Brendle, and Nick Smith, who gave their time to build the structure. Stacey still has some healing to do, and hopefully the paralysis is temporary; but only time will tell. Until that time, her life has been made a little easier by these folks who gave of themselves to help others.
Health Matters: Speaking from the Heart by John P. Vansant, MD, FACC
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hy are rheumatologists (physicians specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatic/arthritic diseases) beginning to acknowledge the need for their taking a more pro-active role in identifying and evaluating patients at increased risk for developing cardiovascular disease (CVD)? Risk factors are health conditions or habits that increase one’s chances of developing a disease or increase the potential for having a disease worsen. In the May 400 Edition article we reviewed the commonly recognized list of risk factors for the development of CVD. We also introduced a recent addition to that list by addressing the clinical implications of an elevated blood test called C-reactive protein (CRP). Evidence began to accumulate in the early 1990s that the presence of inflammation plays an important role in the development of CVD. It is now acknowledged that the CRP is a strong protein biomarker of inflammation. A very interesting development occurred when it was recognized that statin drug treatment for high cholesterol significantly lowered CRP levels. This suggested that risk reduction of CVD with statin therapy may be attributed, at least in part, to its anti-inflammatory effects. This is supported by the fact that approximately 50% of individuals who have an acute coronary event (heart attack) have normal cholesterol blood levels. Continuing with the idea that inflammation plays a role in the development of CVD, I reflect upon the frequency of discussions on this topic at a recently attended Harvard Rheumatology Update course. Only recently has sufficient data accumulated establishing that individuals with various rheumatic diseases are at greater risk for CVD. A large study of over 100,000 patients defined a 59% higher risk of CVD mortality (death) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Additionally, compared to the general population, women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) between the ages of 35 and
44 are at significant risk for CVD, with a 53-fold increased risk of having a heart attack compared to that observed in age matched controls. A Harvard cardiologist currently involved in research looking at the relationships of CVD in patients with RA/SLE stated: 1. Mortality (death) in patients with RA/SLE is mainly due to the higher incidence of CVD. 2. Patients with RA/SLE have an increased risk of CVD that is independent of the presence of other typically recognized cardiovascular risk factors. 3. This group of patients has a 7.5-fold higher risk of CVD events than would be predicted by the traditional model of risk factors (age, blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and smoking). Specific answers as to why this patient population is at such a high risk for developing CVD is a “work in progress.” However, much existing evidence points towards the role of various associated inflammatory markers and their role in the induction of coronary artery atherosclerosis (cholesterol plaque development). Yes, it appears that the medical community must be persistently diligent in recognizing the ever-changing, expanding, and remarkable complexity of the many factors that place all of us at greater risk for developing CVD. John P. Vansant, MD, FACC, is Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Rheumatology, and Nuclear Medicine. Among other appointments, he formerly served as Associate Professor of Radiology, Director of Nuclear Medicine, and Chief of Nuclear Cardiology services at Emory University Hospital. He is nationally recognized for his achievements in the clinical advancement of Nuclear Cardiology.
November 2010 • www.400edition.com
400 Edition
Local Cop Writes First Crime Thriller
by Josh Bugosh
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or local author Jack Branson, “writing what you know” means recalling decades of training and experience. As a former federal agent, he has plenty of inspiration. His first novel, Terminal Justice, is currently available at major retailers and combines elements from his accomplished career and personal experiences with creative flair. Justice has always been part of Branson’s life. At age 35, he began work as an agent for the Department of Treasury, handling public corruption cases. He retired in 2003, shortly after the 2000 election, in which he was part of a Secret Service “jump team” that worked ahead of the candidates. He has since become a licensed private investigator and currently works for the Cumming Police Department. The need for justice reached a personal level when Branson’s aunt was murdered in 2003. He dedicated himself to revealing the criminal—someone within the family—and later helped his wife, established author Mary Branson, in putting together a nonfiction account called “Murder in Mayberry.” “It was very beneficial,” Branson said of working with Mary. “My hope was that the book might help others.” Working with his wife helped Jack get a feel for the writing process and the enjoyment it brings. In the spring of 2009, he started penning his own novel, and by September 29, 2010, it was on bookshelves, courtesy of Father’s Press. Spanning several cities and prominently featuring North Georgia, Terminal Justice follows a group of retired agents who find themselves victims of a malicious bioterrorism plot. Now facing terminal cancer, they decide to dedicate their remaining days to righting the wrongs of the world and eliminating criminals who fall through the cracks of the justice system. Branson is currently at work with Mary on his next book, a chronicle of cold-case files called Delayed Justice. It hits bookshelves in June 2011 courtesy of Prometheus Books. Terminal Justice is currently available on Amazon.com.
400 Edition
“Fly Away, High Away, Bye Bye” T
hud! I turned around to see a large bird of prey on the ground near our driveway, about ten feet away from me. A bit startled, I winced to think that it had pounced upon a squirrel or some other small critter. “John, look!” I pointed for my husband to see. “It’s a hawk!” He stopped putting up the Christmas lights for a moment. “Did it catch something?” “I don’t see anything. Maybe it got away,” I replied. We hunted for clues that would tell us what had just taken place. The most unusual observation was that as we would advance close to the hawk, it would retreat, but would not fly away. “Get the camera!” said John with much anticipation of what would come next. During the photo shoot, I made slow moves snapping away at every step. Through the camera eye, I was fascinated by the hawk’s beautiful upper body in deep brown, black, and white feathers. The belly was white speckled with dark browns; the upper chest, with softer, light golden feathers. The top side of the tail had a distinguishing rusty red color. The hawk fanned out its wings and leaped into the woods. I then realized I was beginning to get too close to a wild bird, so I decided to leave it alone. We quickly finished our decorating. Out of curiosity, John looked for the hawk, and I followed him. We searched where we last saw it. John followed the sound of some small birds making a racket. “Sari, there it is!” John softly whispered. The hawk was perched on a stump in our neighbor’s yard. I noticed a vulture flying above, and the two small birds seemed to be harassing the hawk. The little ones flew away when we approached the hawk as it remained unbothered. I was able to take more of my wildlife pictures. “It appears to be favoring one wing,” John pointed out. We discussed what to do with an injured bird. I commented that I had very little pity for a bird of prey. I was thinking, the two little birds now have an upper hand on the situation and if the vulture waits long enough for the hawk to die, it can have a meal. But John had more compassion and said, “I will contact the DNR.” The closest DNR (Department of Natural Resources) was at Amicalola Falls State Park. He went inside to make the call. “Can you have someone come over to check out a hawk that is injured and cannot fly?” A moment later, he hung up and told me, “Lauretta is coming over. She handles injured birds of prey.” We often go to Amicalola Falls Lodge, with its spectacular mountain views. We know the faces of the park rangers, but we did not know all of their names. I said, “It might be the blond lady who gives demonstrations of snakes and birds at the lodge.” I was thinking of what to name the bird, since it had landed on our property. “How about naming the hawk Biscayne, since that is the name of our subdivision?” John agreed. It seemed like a long wait and Biscayne eventually hopped off the stump and went into a patch of briers deep in the woods. Lauretta finally arrived, with large leather gloves. I instantly recognized her; she was the park ranger I was thinking about. We introduced ourselves and then John pointed in the direction of the crippled bird. Lauretta was talking calmly to the hawk as she made her way into the thicket. As she approached to within about five feet, it spread out its wings to make itself look monstrous, to discourage this intruder. When she was about to pick it up,
November 2010 • www.400edition.com
by Sari M. Reid
the injured bird rolled onto its back to free all eight talons, four on each foot, and was ready for combat. The hawk lashed out several times with its fierce feet. Lauretta gently but firmly grabbed them. The sharp beak was no match for the thick gloves. She won the struggle and gave refuge to Biscayne in the security of her nurturing arm. “She’s a four-pound female red-tailed hawk,” Lauretta said as she worked herself out of the thicket, “She wandered into the briers for added protection and did a good job. Ouch!” Lauretta showed us a puncture wound under Biscayne’s wing and explained, “Crows probably did this to her. If we hadn’t rescued her, they would have come back in force to kill her.” I suddenly remembered. “Yes, I heard them! That must be the reason why Biscayne ended up on our driveway.” “Do you know what a group of crows is called?” asked Lauretta. “No,” we replied together. “They are called a ‘murder’.” “A ‘murder’... Are you serious?” I asked, as I imagined the crows tearing into this beautiful creature. Lauretta confirmed it was true. I noticed that Biscayne’s mouth was open throughout the ordeal. Lauretta explained it was a “distress expression” that birds of prey display when they feel threatened or unsure of their environment. Lauretta asked us for a box to put Biscayne in for her transport back to the DNR care center. “I think I have one in the attic that would be the right size,” I said and went to get it. When I came down from the attic, I saw John walking in—and then Lauretta followed, with Biscayne in her arms. I had this enormous red-tailed hawk in the house! My two little Yorkshire terriers went crazy yapping at the intruder. I tried to calm down my 4.2pound and 6-pound Yorkies, but it was futile. I managed to introduce my dogs to Lauretta over the noise: “Poppy is the smaller one and Sparky is the bigger one.” “Poppy would be an hors d’oeuvre for this hawk,” said Lauretta, “And Sparky, well, she would be pretty safe from a hawk, but a ‘murder’ could kill her. If I were you, I would not leave them outside unattended.” “See, Sari, what have I been telling you about letting our dogs run free to the mailbox?” John continued, “I can see the writing on the tombstone—R.I.P. Sparky was a Yorkie, the ‘murder’ needed no forkie!” “John!” I scolded right back. “How could you say that about one of our only children!” We all laughed but I got the message loud and clear. Lauretta took Biscayne away in the cardboard box. After knowing more about red-tailed hawks, I became more sympathetic toward Biscayne, but I still had reservations concerning my dogs’ safety. To be continued next month… Sari Reid has a BS in Computer Science from DePaul University and owns an online Embroidery/Dog Boutique at www.yorkiedoodle. com. Last Christmas, Sari and her husband, John, stayed in a dog friendly cabin at Amicalola State Park with their dogs Sparky and Poppy.
Understanding and Treating Premenstrual Dysphoria Disorder (PMDD) by Robert A. Brown, MD, Crown Mountain Women’s Health
PMDD
is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). In PMDD, the symptoms of PMS are so severe they interfere with work, social activities, and relationships. Because 1 in 20 women suffers from PMDD, there is great urgency to understand the biologic and psychosocial causes and treatment options. A sophisticated understanding of both reproductive and psychosocial factors is required since PMDD is at the interface of gynecology and psychiatry. PMDD has significant negative impact on daily function, quality of life, and economic impact. The essential features of PMDD are symptoms of marked and persistent anger/ irritability, depressed mood, and anxiety that recur for a year or more during the last week of the menstrual cycle before menses. Severity is the key component of the diagnosis, with impaired ability to function both socially and occupationally during this time. Premenstrual worsening of psychiatric disorders, particularly depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorder must be examined and separated from PMDD. This is important because of the implications for treatment. For example, if bipolar disorder is the underlying disease, it must be primarily treated. With successful treatment of the primary condition, premenstrual symptoms will often improve. The most agreed-upon assessment method for PMDD requires a collection of a minimum of two consecutive months of current symptoms. That is to say, looking into the past is inaccurate; collecting one’s experiences at the time they occur is much more accurate. There has been an increasing amount of investigation into understanding what causes PMDD. As with other psychiatric disorders, PMDD is likely related to multiple biologic, psychological, and sociocultural causes. We don’t know the exact pathways, but we understand that they are complex. Twin studies have shown that there is an element of heritability.
The cyclical nature of PMDD lends itself to the hypothesis that these problems have a primary biologic cause. It turns out, however, that it is not that simple. For some reason women who suffer from PMDD are more vulnerable to the normal changes associated with the menstrual cycle. We are presently examining why this might be. Research has consistently demonstrated the important role of serotonin in PMDD. Serotonin is an important neurotransmitter impacting mood and feelings of well-being. There are important differences in serotonin levels in blood and brain during the premenstrual time of sufferers of PMDD. The SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) such as Prozac very quickly treat PMDD, strongly suggesting a causative role; but only 60% respond, suggesting that serotonin levels are not the only factor. There are psychosocial factors associated with PMDD. Stressful life events and, particularly, day-to-day stress are associated with increased PMS/PMDD. High levels of anxiety have been observed in PMDD patients. It may partly be a learned, legitimate, feminine way of expressing frustration, particularly with the conflict between women’s productive and reproductive social roles. In addition, past sexual abuse is reported by a significant proportion of women with PMDD. A healthy lifestyle benefits all of us. Expert opinion is that lifestyle changes should be the first approach taken in all women with PMS/ PMDD. Dietary changes can have a noticeable impact. Women should be encouraged to reduce or eliminate intake of salty foods, sugar, caffeine (especially coffee), red meat, and alcohol. Increased consumption of fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and water is recommended. Smaller, more frequent meals may improve symptoms. Regular exercise may help. Attention to sleep routines, with consistent bedtimes and awakenings, is important. Women
should be encouraged to avoid planning stressful activities during the premenstrual time. Dietary supplements are often recommended in the media for treatment of PMS/ PMDD symptoms. Unfortunately, with few exceptions, little scientific evidence is available to support these recommendations. However, so long as they are used at daily recommended dosages, they carry little risk of harm. In fact, calcium supplementation up to 1500 mg may help, as well as helping to prevent osteoporosis. Vitamin B6 has been shown, debatably, to help with the depression of PMDD, but the dose should not be more than 80 mg daily. Herbal and complementary methods such as chasteberry, massage, reflexology, chiropractic manipulation, yoga, and acupuncture have been successfully tried. For women who do not respond to conservative therapies, or for those with severe symptoms, SSRIs are the first line of treatment. Effectiveness and safety have been well established. Several of these medications have FDA indications for PMDD. In addition, they can be successful when taken only in the premenstrual time. The next line of treatment for severe PMDD is hormonal treatment, and the birth control pill Beyaz has recently been approved for PMDD. We see that there are multiple possible causes of PMDD, so it is understandable that treatment should involve an integrated approach, tailored to each patient’s particular set of circumstances. A stepwise approach to treatment, reflecting the severity and functional impairment, is recommended. In all cases, treatment should be provided to address other psychiatric or medical disorders and life stressors, including past or present abuse. Because PMDD affects so many women so drastically, it is important to have a wide array of knowledge in this area to be able to treat each patient individually and comprehensively.
Take Extra Caution On Roadways To Avoid Deer
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ith an estimated 50,000 deercar collisions annually in Georgia, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division advises motorists across the state to be extra cautious of increased deer and wildlife sightings this fall season. Increased deer sightings occur for a number of reasons: increased populations, habitat fragmentation, and mating season are a few. With fall breeding season in full swing (a peak time of year for deer-related car collisions), the division offers motorists some tips and information to help avoid potential collisions. “Some Georgia motorists may only expect deer to cross rural roadways, while in fact, urban and suburban roads are also prime areas for deer-car collisions,” explains Don McGowan, Wildlife Resources Division biologist. “Hunting is oftentimes mistakenly
blamed for increased deer-car collisions in autumn when, in reality, deer are on the move due to a series of both natural and human causes.” One such cause is mating season. Deer mating season occurs between October and early December. Male deer go into rut and begin actively searching for mates. This greatly contributes to the increased movement of deer, bringing them across roadways. Increased human population and rural development also add to increased deer sightings. As the human population continues to grow and expand into traditionally rural areas, deer lose their natural food sources and consequently move into new areas in search of food and water. Additionally, as we “fall back” when Daylight Saving Time comes to an end, our days become shorter and nights become longer. Rush hour for most commuters tends to fall during the same hours in which white-tailed deer
are most active at dawn and dusk. The division advises drivers to keep the following points in mind: • Unpredictability. Always remember that deer are wildlife and, therefore, very unpredictable. A deer standing calmly on the side of a road may bolt into or across the road, rather than away from it, when startled by a vehicle. • One deer usually means more. Be extra cautious when you see a deer cross in front of you, and slow down. Deer generally travel in groups, so if one crosses, be prepared for others that may be following. • Time of Day. Since deer are most active at dawn and dusk, they typically are seen roadside during the early morning and late evening— the same times most people are commuting to and from work. • Time of Year. While many deer-car collisions occur in early spring and late summer when natural food
sources are scarce, the fall breeding season is also a peak time for such accidents. Road shoulders generally provide green food both during extremely dry times of the year and following a long, hard winter. • Minimize Damage. If it is too late to avoid a collision, slow down as much as possible to minimize damage. Resist the urge to swerve to avoid the deer; this may cause further damage by sending you off the road or causing a collision with another vehicle. If an accident occurs, alert the police as soon as possible. For more information on deer-car collisions in Georgia or to learn more about white-tailed deer or deer seasons, visit www.georgiawildlife.com, contact a Wildlife Resources Division Game Management office, or call 770-918-6416.
NORTHSIDE HOSPITAL
To Your Health
Surviving The Holidays With Less Heartburn
by Victoria Kelley, RN, coordinator, Heartburn Treatment Center, Northside Hospital-Forsyth
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or many of us, this is our favorite time of year, with holiday parties and family gatherings and celebrations—boundless opportunities to overindulge in all of our favorite holiday treats. But it can be an especially painful time for the more than 50 million Americans who suffer from heartburn. Chances are that you’ve experienced it—the unpleasant burning sensation deep in your chest after having too much food or drink. Heartburn often is accompanied by acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which occurs when the lower muscle of the esophagus doesn’t close properly, allowing stomach acid and food to flow back up. Heartburn is typically a minor problem, treatable at home; but during the holidays, when you’re constantly on the go, it can become more obvious and certainly ruin a good time. Don’t let heartburn or acid reflux disrupt your holidays this year. Simple lifestyle changes can help you manage or improve symptoms throughout the season and all year long.
• Don’t skip meals to “save room” for a holiday feast. Rather, eat multiple smaller meals. Maybe use a smaller plate and avoid
going back for seconds. You also might consider skipping dessert or eating only a partial serving. Indulge on those things you only get during the holidays. • If you’re concerned that there won’t be anything you can eat at the party, bring your own healthy dish, such as a fresh vegetable tray. Then you will be able to nibble, while avoiding heavy chips and dip.
tomatoes, peppermint, fatty foods, fried foods, citrus foods, and spicy foods. • Manage your stress. Take a time out each day to do something fun. Look at certain holiday “chores”— wrapping gifts, baking, or writing holiday cards—as extra time for exercise and quiet moments. If your heartburn symptoms persist
or worsen, or if you have had symptoms requiring medication for more than three years, it is time to seek medical help. The Heartburn Treatment Center at Northside Hospital-Forsyth specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of GERD-related problems. For more information, call 770-844-3675 or visit www.northside.com.
• Turkey can be an excellent food for heartburn sufferers. Avoid eating the skin, or fats used to baste the turkey. Fatty foods may increase the risk of heartburn. • Eat slowly and give your food time to digest. Chew your food thoroughly. • Alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated drinks may trigger symptoms. Try a non-alcoholic beer or wine, hot cider, or water instead. If alcohol is just too tempting, dilute it with water or club soda. • Try walking after a meal. Being active and upright after a meal can prevent reflux. Avoid lying down for 2-3 hours after any meal. • Avoid foods that you know cause heartburn, such as chocolate,
Trackrock News W hile some have already put their camping equipment away for the winter, many realize that fall and early winter offer some of the best camping of the year. As the leaves fall to the ground, the hills are revealed in a very different way. Daytime temperatures are cool enough (high 40’s and 50’s) so hiking is a real pleasure, and the cold nights make for great sleeping. The craft and antique stores are warm with potential Christmas gifts. We still have cabins available for every weekend through New Year’s. Pack a sweater and come on up. Specials: For stays between November 10 and November 20, stay one night and get your second night for 50% off. Think about a Thanksgiving trip. Yes, we still have cabins and camping spots open for the Thanksgiving holiday. Stuff your bird in the car, grab a sweater,
and head to Blairsville. There are several craft shows and lots of other shopping opportunities to let you get a jump on your holiday shopping without the crowds. You can also stop by Southern Tree Plantation and pick out (or cut down) your Christmas tree. Come to the mountains for the holiday; a great time is just about guaranteed! Trackrock Campground & Cabins 141 Trackrock Camp Road, Blairsville, GA 30512 Phone: 706-745-2420 trackroc@windstream.net Trackrock Stables / Horse Camp 202 Trackrock Camp Road, Blairsville, GA 30512 Phone: 706-745-5252 trackrockstables@windstream.net Web site: www.trackrock.com
November 2010 • www.400edition.com
400 Edition
Your Vision Source! by Dr. Joyce M. Nations
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o you work on a computer? Do your eyes feel more strained or more irritated when working on the computer for extended periods of time? Do your eyes burn, tear, feel dry, or ache when using the computer? If you answered yes to these questions, then you may suffer from computer vision syndrome. Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is a collection of eye and vision symptoms related to extended near work associated with computer use. When looking at a computer screen, our eyes are constantly being forced to adjust focus. Adults as well as children can be affected by extended computer use. Some symptoms of computer vision syndrome can be eye fatigue, discomfort, blurred vision, dry eyes, and headaches. Some other signs of CVS can include eye redness, eye rubbing, and difficulty with posture. The eyes respond well to images that have well-defined edges, with good contrast between the background and the letters. Therefore the eyes do very well with printed material. But since the images on the computer screen are made up of pixels, the eyes have a much harder time focusing on these images. The eyes try to focus on the computer screen but have a hard time maintaining this focus. So they relax to a point behind the screen, called the resting point of accommodation (RPA). Since the RPA is behind the screen, the eyes are constantly trying to focus on the screen and then relaxing to the RPA, and as a result the eyes fatigue and feel strained. There are many ways to reduce eye strain and eye fatigue associated with CVS. First, check the lighting in the room. You want to make sure there is no glare on the computer screen. Windows or other lighting should not be directed at the computer screen. Turning the monitor away from light sources can help with this, as well as dimming the light. Another way to reduce glare is by adding a glare screen to the monitor. One of the best ways to reduce glare is to have glasses with an anti-reflective (AR) coating applied to the lens in order to reduce reflections. This can help reduce eye fatigue associated with computer use. Frequent breaks from the computer can reduce eye strain and fatigue. When working on the computer, you tend to stare at that distance for so long that you don’t blink your eyes as often. As a result, your eyes tend to dry out
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quicker, causing more eye irritation. Taking a 5-10 minute break every hour can help with this. In addition, several times an hour, rest your eyes by either closing your eyes or looking off at a distance for a few seconds. By doing this, you allow for normal blinking and rewetting of the eyes. Also keep in mind that office buildings tend to have drier environments. Artificial tear drops, used especially during extensive computer use, can help with dry eye symptoms. Modifying your work area can reduce symptoms of CVS. If you do work that requires looking at printed material and then back to the computer, adjusting the printed material so that it is standing next to the monitor will help reduce eyestrain. The monitor should be placed directly in front of you, not off to one side. It should sit about 20-26 inches away. If you experience any of these symptoms, sometimes computer glasses can help. Since the computer is further away than a reading distance yet closer than a distance prescription, sometimes the eyeglass prescription needs to be adjusted for an intermediate distance. In addition to antireflective coatings, a UV coat on the lens can reduce eyestrain. Most daylight or fluorescent bulbs emit blue light, which is harder for the eyes to focus. A UV tint will eliminate most of this blue component, helping to reduce eyestrain and fatigue. Computer vision syndrome affects millions of computers users. If you are a computer user and experience any of these symptoms, schedule a check-up with your optometrist to determine the best solution for you. Dr. Nations practices at Cherokee Eye Group at 591 East Main Street in Canton, and at Dawson Eye Group at 5983 Highway 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.
Comma Momma S
even years ago on a popular language blog, some professional linguists were discussing an odd usage that someone had reported: the use of the word eggcorn to mean acorn. A lot of linguistic head-scratching went on about what category this coinage belonged in, but the upshot was that they weren’t happy with any of the existing labels for similarly off-kilter usages. For example, there’s malapropism. A malapropism replaces a word with one that sounds as if it should be right but is actually totally wrong. The name comes from Mrs. Malaprop, a character in Sheridan’s 1775 play The Rivals. Mrs. Malaprop says things such as “Promise to forget this fellow—to illiterate him, I say, quite from your memory.” Illiterate and obliterate have some sounds in common, but their meanings are completely unrelated. Malapropisms show up in everything from Shakespeare to Archie Bunker and The Simpsons, and are the occasion of much hilarity. Or are supposed to be, at least, among the literati who recognize them. Then there’s mondegreen, a misheard song or poem lyric. Many years ago there was a popular song called “Till The End of Time.” As a child, I thought they were saying “Chileana Time.” That’s a mondegreen. The label mondegreen comes from a mishearing of some words in a
“Eggcorn” In The OED
17th century ballad: “They have slain the Earl of Murray, and laid him on the green.” As a child, writer Sylvia Wright misheard that last part as “Lady Mondegreen,” and later, as an adult, suggested the term mondegreen for this kind of misunderstanding. Mondegreens only result from spoken words; clearly, if Wright had seen the words “laid him on the green,” there would have been no cause for confusion. But what to call the eggcorn/acorn thing? Eggcorn isn’t really a malapropism, since eggcorn means the same thing as acorn, and malapropisms by definition must have a meaning different from the word they’re replacing. Nor is eggcorn a mondegreen, because it’s not something that was misheard in a song or poem. Eggcorn is quite different; it’s a word that sounds very much like the word it replaces (acorn), but it’s not spelled the same, and—here’s the key difference—the replacement makes a twisted sort of sense. Geoff Pullum, one of the linguists involved in the original online discussion, suggested eggcorn itself as the generic label for these creative coinages that sound very much like the word or phrase they replace, and that also seem to make sense. Hundreds of examples of eggcorns have subsequently been collected online at www.eggcorns.lascribe.net; there you will find
November 2010 • www.400edition.com
by Nancy Wright eggcorns such as these: For all intensive purposes (instead of to all intents and purposes) Monday details (instead of mundane details) Death charge (instead of depth charge) Recently I was thrilled—thrilled, I tell you—to spot a previously unreported eggcorn in print: til your heart’s content (instead of to your heart’s content). See how the replacement phrase makes almost perfect sense? But here’s the really exciting news about all this. The word “eggcorn”—that is, the generic label for this kind of coinage—has recently been approved for inclusion in <insert trumpet fanfare> the Oxford English Dictionary. Just imagine the high fives at the blogging community where this label was originally coined. Just imagine the virtual champagne toasts and the congratulatory online hugs. Just imagine the phone call home (“Mom, Dad, guess what? My word’s going to be in the DICTIONARY!”). Gosh darn it, I get all choked up just thinking about it… Nancy Wright formats technical books for a specialty publishing house in New York. She and her husband live in White County; you can contact her at adairmill@windstream.net.
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Lava Hair Studio K
aren Covington, owner of Lava “What Not To Wear.” His products Hair Studio, is passionate about are not only simple to understand, the hair industry she has invested but also easy to use, and range from herself in just $13 to for 20 years, $17. They and where are enriched she continues with vitamin to be inspired B5, the most daily by sophisticated her clients, active team, and ingredient community. available It has been in hair care. not only It’s proven to rewarding add strength but lifeand vitality, changing; fullness, as her body, and aspirations sheen to all Karen with Nick Arrojo have hair types. grown, she has also grown, and The line also contains five essential embraced a career in teaching minerals: zinc, silicon, copper, iron, and developing young talent by and magnesium. inspiring and motivating her team Education is the key in any to work hard and dream big. She industry, and communication is vital has successfully created a salon to the experience that the Lava team that is in the top 10% of its industry. creates for you; not only do they The Lava Hair Studio team has want you to love your haircut and continued to build its skill set though color, but they also want it to fit your continual education. Karen says, lifestyle and be wearable, workable “It is our duty as Master Stylists to healthy hair that you will be able to raise the bar in our industry, to style yourself. demonstrate professionalism while Call Lava Hair Studio at 706communicating effectively and 429-0001 or go to their web site educating our clients.” (www.lavahairstudio.com) and Continuing to set the Lava team make your appointment. Lava is up for success, the studio is excited conveniently located at 671 Lumpkin to introduce its alignment with one of Campground Road, in Dawsonville, the best in the industry, Nick Arrojo, right behind the Premium Outlet and his product line for hair care. Mall. Book your appointment today Most may recognize him from TLC’S online!
Scenic 197 Association Presents Seasonal Spirits
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ortheast Georgia’s most beautiful and storied drive once served as the route by which distilled spirits were ferried to points south. Today, it’s a destination for Southern spirits seeking the artful and one-ofkind. Join the merchants of the Scenic 197 Association in celebrating the art and craft of the holidays with their special Open House on Saturday, December 4, from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Each business will glow like Santa’s workshop, offering creative handmade goods, warm hospitality, delectable edibles, thank-goodness-you-procrastinated discounts, and uncommon service. Showing off a little elfin magic, many of the participating shops will feature demonstrating artists on site; still others promise bow-tied presents for simply stopping by. If
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you haven’t placed a check mark beside every name on your list yet, your dawdling pays off on this seasonal Saturday. Member shops and studios: Burton Gallery and Emporium, Cottage Garden, Hickory Flat Pottery, Serendipity Stained Glass, Once Upon A Time Antiques, Soque Art Works, and Mark of the Potter. Food and lodging available at the Batesville Store and Restaurant, and the North 40 Lodge. Downloadable maps and directions are available by logging onto www.Scenic197. com History, heritage, and artistic presentation combine to make this ribbon of highway a gift-giving mustsee. But put your pedal to the metal; this only happens one day of the year…”wrap” it up!
Dawsonville’s Veterans Day Celebration
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he Veterans Affairs of Dawson County, Dawson County Chamber of Commerce, and Dawsonville and Dawson County officials will hold the 6th Annual Veterans Day Celebration on November 11 in downtown Dawsonville. The Veterans Day National Committee approved Dawson County as a 2010 Veterans Day Regional Site. This is Dawsonville’s fourth year to receive this honor; Atlanta and Dawsonville are the only two Regional Sites in Georgia to receive this recognition. The parade line-up will begin at the Dawson County Library at 1:15 pm; the parade begins at 4:00pm. Korean War Veterans will be the Grand Marshals. Formal ceremonies will be held at the Dawson County Middle School at 2:45pm. Captain Larry Freeland will
be the Master of Ceremonies. The keynote speaker will be Nathan Deal. Veterans and active military personnel from all wars and all branches will be honored, as well as local Dawson County Law Enforcement, Fire Department, and Emergency Medical Services. The public is invited to line the streets in downtown Dawsonville and show their support for our veterans and active military. Before the parade, a private banquet will be held for veterans and their spouses beginning at 1:30pm at the Dawson County Middle School. Please call Pam Hamalainen at 706-265-6278 for more information.
Hunters Urged To Observe Firearms Safety During the 2009-2010 hunting season, Georgia reported 45 hunting incidents, 14 of which involved firearms. This season, hunters are encouraged to review the “Ten Commandments of Firearms Safety” before heading to the woods. “Ultimately, it’s the individual hunters who are responsible for keeping themselves and others safe while pursuing deer this hunting season,” says Walter Lane, Hunter Development Program Manager of the Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division. “This includes respecting all firearms and being absolutely certain of their target.” The “Ten Commandments of Firearms Safety” constitute an excellent safety checklist, covered in all hunter education courses and well worth a review by any hunter who utilizes firearms to hunt. The Ten Commandments of Firearms Safety One: Control the direction of the firearm’s muzzle. Keep the safety on, and fingers off the trigger, at all times until ready to shoot. Two: Identify the target and what is beyond it before shooting. Know the identifying features of the game hunted and be absolutely certain that what you are aiming at is that game.
Three: Treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Four: Be sure the barrel and action are clear of obstructions and that only the proper size ammunition is used in the firearm. Five: Always unload a firearm when it is not in use, leave the actions open, and carry empty firearms in a case to and from shooting areas. Six: Never aim a firearm at anything that you do not intend to shoot. Avoid all horseplay with a firearm. Seven: Never climb a tree or fence, or jump a ditch or log, with a loaded firearm. Never pull a firearm towards you by the muzzle. Eight: Never fire a bullet at a flat, hard surface or at water. Make sure backstops are adequate during target practice. Nine: Store firearms and ammunition separately and beyond the reach of children and careless adults. Ten: Avoid all alcoholic beverages and drugs before and during shooting. For more information on firearms safety, visit www.gohuntgeorgia. com or contact the Wildlife Resources Division’s Hunter Education office at 770-388-0045.
November 2010 • www.400edition.com
400 Edition 13
The Whimbrel’s Incredible Flight Highlights Habitat Needs
by Kristina Summers, Georgia Department of Natural Resources
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fter an amazing journey, a pigeon-sized shorebird has settled down in the remote Coppename Monding Nature Reserve in the South American country of Suriname. It is a well-deserved rest. The bird, a whimbrel, has just traveled more than 4,700 miles, including nearly 3,500 miles nonstop in five days. While whimbrels are known for long-distance migrations, it has been unclear how exactly far they fly and where they go after leaving Georgia. Until now. Chinquapin, one of two whimbrels fitted with radio transmitters in Georgia in May, is providing key information about the species’ migration patterns to Georgia Department of Natural Resources biologists and other partners in the study at the Center for Conservation Biology at the College of William & Mary. After leaving the Georgia coast, the tagged whimbrels flew north to Hudson Bay in Canada, one of them nonstop. Transmitter data shows that Chinquapin ended up approximately 350 miles west of the bay, below the Arctic Circle in the Northwest Territories. Chinquapin departed this summer territory for Coats Island in Hudson Bay during the second week of July and stayed there until early August. At Coats Island, he geared up for the next leg of what would become a marathon migration flight. During the early morning hours of August 5, Chinquapin flew 600 miles south over Hudson Bay, then continued down the length of James Bay, over Quebec, over Maine, and finally out over the open Atlantic Ocean. Tropical Storm Colin was pumping north toward Bermuda as Chinquapin headed south. The bird appears to have skirted the storm’s cyclonic winds by swinging 300 miles east of Bermuda on August 8. His transmitter beeped next on August 10, from the beaches of northwest Puerto Rico near Playa de Isabela—a nonstop journey of 3,470 miles. That’s
the equivalent of flying about five days around the clock from Boston to Anchorage, Alaska. The small bird was not finished, though. After a two-week rest, he headed 1,300 miles south over the island of Grenada to Suriname, his current location. Although from only one bird, the information received is invaluable, said Brad Winn, a program manager with the DNR Wildlife Resources Division’s Nongame Conservation Section. “Chinquapin is just one tagged whimbrel, but it is important to remember that these are gregarious birds,
so it is likely he is flying in a flock,” Winn said. “His movements also represent thousands of other smaller shorebirds that make similar flights from the Arctic to South America and back. It is pretty mind-boggling that a bird the size of a pigeon can leave subarctic Canada and go nonstop to the beaches of Puerto Rico. It is an amazing journey and it is something to inspire awe and admiration. We don’t know if he will stay at his current site (whimbrels are known to spend winters on both coasts) so it will be interesting to see
White Interiors—A Unique Place to Shop
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ust going through the front door into White Interiors is a delightful experience. You are always greeted by one of the cheerful folks who work there, so you feel special and right at home amid all the beautiful furniture and accessories. Whether you are looking for that perfect couch, lamp, or table, or you need a gift for a friend or family member, you are sure to find it. And it will be unique, and handpicked for you. Don’t forget their Open House on Thursday, November 11, from 4:00pm to 8:00pm. You will receive 20% off your entire purchase, plus there will
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where he goes.” The transmitter-toting whimbrels are not only showing scientists the resources they and their kind need to exist, such as seasonal foods and nesting habitat, they are also reminders that maintaining the health of coastal landscapes has implications beyond state lines and even national borders. Whimbrels and many other species of shorebirds are in Georgia by the thousands for a short period each year. “These global migrants visit us on their migratory trek for about six weeks each spring to feast on the fiddler crabs in our marshes,” Winn said. “The energy they get from our crabs supports them during the next 2,000- to 3,000-mile leg of their annual migration. If our marshes are destroyed or become polluted, the crabs will be gone and this vital link in the migratory chain will be lost. We have a responsibility to be good stewards of our coastal habitats for birds that call the entire Western Hemisphere home.” Whimbrels are a high-priority species in Georgia’s State Wildlife Action Plan, a comprehensive strategy that guides DNR efforts to conserve biological diversity. Georgians can help conserve whimbrels and other nongame wildlife, native plants, and natural habitats through buying a wildlife license plate featuring a bald eagle or a ruby-throated hummingbird. They can also donate to the Georgia Wildlife Conservation Fund through the state income tax check-off, or online at www.georgiawildlife.com. Contributions are vital to the Nongame Conservation Section, which receives no state general funds for its mission to help conserve wildlife not legally hunted, fished for, or trapped, as well as rare plants and natural habitats in Georgia. Track Chinquapin’s travels at www.wildlifetracking. org/index.shtml?tag_id=84206
by Linda Merritt
Owner Judith Johnson is one of our business owners who gives back to the community. She is involved in the Dawson and Lumpkin Chambers’ activities and is a big supporter of the Holly Theatre in Dahlonega—in other words, the kind of folks we need in North Georgia. If you have been planning to redecorate your home, or need some assistance with a particular Lauren Salter and room, Lauren Salter or Rachel Rachel Vaccaro Vaccaro will be happy to discuss this with you. Lauren is the lead designer, buyer, and manager. Rachel, with a design degree from the University of Georgia, is White Interiors’ newest design consultant. Remember, they can also be hourly drawings. White Interiors is a great decorate your home for the Christmas holidays. place to buy your Christmas gifts. It is hard to keep White Interiors is located in Dawsonville, at 278 finding just that right gift, but you will find it here. GA400, Suite 1100, behind Ryan’s. Call 706-216They have beautiful ornaments, picture frames, 1230 or see www.whiteinteriorsllc.com for more centerpieces, throws—the list is endless. These gifts information or directions. can be extravagant, rustic, or traditional.
November 2010 • www.400edition.com
Leibel on the Law Community Foundations by Steven K. Leibel
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s the fall season approaches, and cooler air envelopes our area of the world, I am reminded of how lucky we are to live in North Georgia, one of the more beautiful places in the world. From our historic office on the Dahlonega Square I can see our lovely town and the many people who make our small city a livable working community. As a trial attorney I have seen much poverty and injustice. I have also seen that when people band together they can make a difference. Just recently the Literacy Coalition held an adult spelling bee in Dahlonega, raising money to assist those who want to learn how to read. The Jaycees recently held the Dahlonega Gold Rush, raising money for their charitable works by putting on a fabulous festival promoting our city. Rotten Rusty’s haunted house similarly raises money for charity by hosting a haunted house. There are many ways that we as individuals can make a difference. We can volunteer in our schools, and mentor young people. We can work on various projects with other volunteers. We can enjoy life while helping our towns. Another way that we can help is by establishing funds in a community foundation which can be the focus of our charitable giving. Individuals, families, businesses, and organizations can create permanent charitable funds that help their region meet the challenges of changing times. The foundation invests and administers these funds. Each community foundation is overseen by a volunteer board of leading citizens and run by professionals with expertise in identifying their community’s needs. In the United States, community foundations serve tens of thousands of donors, administer more than $31 billion in charitable funds, and address the core concerns of nearly 700 communities and regions. A community foundation is a nonprofit organization that allows people to establish individual foundations under the umbrella of a community foundation organization. This individual or family foundation is akin to a charitable savings account. It allows people to save their charitable giving in one account so that it can grow over time. For example, if you have a good year and want to place
charitable funds in your community foundation account, you can do so. You can then use the money to gift to charitable organizations at any time, saving the rest for a larger gift at a later time. Many people use a community foundation account for all of their charitable obligations. Some people use their accounts to fund mission trips for organizations, give money to museums, and provide funds for food banks. The list of charities and non-profit causes is too large to list. The only restriction is that charitable accounts cannot be used for personal gain. In lean years a community foundation account can maintain a level of giving that might not be possible otherwise. Charities often suffer in hard times and their services are reduced if there are inadequate reserves. Community foundation accounts can often make up the difference. Community foundations go beyond simply making grants that advance charitable activities. They also identify current and emerging issues, channel resources to address their communities’ needs, and help their regions prepare for the future As the fall season approaches, I recommend that you consult with your tax advisor, lawyer, or a community foundation representative to assess your individual needs. There is nothing better than being able to give money to those who are in need, and to make certain that your personal charitable wishes are followed to your own specifications. Steven Leibel is a Georgia personal injury lawyer with offices in Dawson County and in Dahlonega. He currently serves as 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.
November 2010 • www.400edition.com
400 Edition 15
Faith, Courage, and Duty
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t was brought to our attention recently that a young Marine was leaving soon for his third tour of duty in the Middle East and he was taking a small New Testament Bible with him that had been in his family since June 1918. Of course, my ears perked up because this sounded like a good story. We made arrangements to meet with the Wade family to do an interview and take pictures. This was not a normal interview. There were lots of hugs, some tears, the sharing of thoughts and ideas, and the realization that we had met a Nannie & John wonderful family that would remain in our hearts. In January 2006, John Henry Wade III told his parents, Henry and Judy Wade, that he had done some research and he was going to join the Marine Corps. John graduated in May 2006 from South Forsyth High and left for Parris Island in January 2007. Like many other men and women, the Marines go through weeks of training, physically and mentally, to prepare them for whatever it takes to make sure our country is secure and that our freedom is protected. John’s decision to join the military was not a huge surprise to his family. During his childhood there were the camouflage birthday cakes, the trips to the Army Salvage stores, forts being built, Aunt Marie, Uncle the metal box Ananda, Judy, kept in his room that contained his grandfathers’ army medals and dog tags, being protective of family and friends—these were signs of a Marine in the making. In John’s words, “We live in the greatest nation on earth. I cannot even imagine anyone not wanting to serve our country. I feel blessed to be able to serve for our freedom.” The Bible mentioned earlier is one of the things that John will keep with him while he
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by Linda Merritt
is in Afghanistan. John’s a ship at Camp grandmother, Jane Creamer Merritt, NJ, on Thompson, just recently June 17, 1918. presented him with a tin to The Bible was carry the Bible in to keep it from the New from falling apart. York Bible The top of the Society and was tin reads, “Psalm being distributed 91:2 I will say of through the the Lord, He is YMCA. Cliff my refuge and my and his New fortress: my God; Testament were Contents of John’s tin in Him will I trust. entering into Love, Nannie.” World War I in Germany and France. Both At the interview, John handed came back home, safe and sound. In 1944 me the Bible, wrapped up in a Cliff gave the Bible to his son-in-law, Calvin khaki-colored cloth. As I held the A. Thompson, as he was leaving for Europe 92-year-old Bible in my hands, and World War II. His assignment was to there was a feeling of peace and bring himself and the Bible back home. In reverence within me. I opened it up 1966 the Bible was given to Cliff’s son, to prepare to take a photograph, and Donald C. Creamer, as he left for a two-year was looking tour in Vietnam. Later Deanie Otwell Creamer for John 3:16. (Donald’s wife) gave the Bible to Jane Judy said, Creamer Thompson. In 2007 Jane presented “You know, the Bible to her grandson John Wade III John was born before he left for the war in Iraq. Jane said, on March 16; “What a precious thing, that this same New he is our John Testament that was carried by my father, my 3:16.” husband, and my only brother, will now be Inside the carried by John, my grandson.” tin, John also carries a picture of his friend John’s dad, Henry Wade, says, “We are Lance Cpl. John Joel Malone, who was killed so proud of our son; he left for Parris Island in action September 24, 2009, while they a young man of eighteen, and has returned to were serving together in Afghanistan; some us a man of honor. We are so proud of him medals, and a coin from General Petraeus; and his service to our country. My dad, John and pictures of his family. On the back of the Henry Wade, Sr., served in WWII; my brother, tin, John has recorded all the places he has Tony Wade, in Vietnam; and now my son, carried the Bible: Shannon, Ireland; Camp having gone to Iraq, is now getting ready for Virginia, Kuwait; Karmah, his second deployment to Afghanistan. It is a Iraq; Leipzig, Germany; family legacy of service to our country we are Manas Air Force Base, very proud of. We appreciate your prayers not Kyrgyzstan; and Delaram, only for our son, but for all our servicemen Afghanistan. John was and women. We should never forget the privileged to speak at his sacrifice made not only by them but also by friend’s memorial service their families.” when they returned to their “It definitely is a Marine brotherhood,” Marine base in Hawaii. He says John, “bringing even more significance and two friends took time to the Marine motto, Semper Fidelis (Latin during their Christmas for ‘Always faithful’).” John says there is leave in December to a brotherhood in the Marines that lasts a travel to lifetime—which Billy, John, Malone’s is why there is no & Nannie home in New such thing as an exYork to visit his family. Marine or a former Nannie—Jane Creamer Marine: Once a Thompson—related to me the Marine, always a story of the Bible and how it Marine. “We are got started on its many journeys. faithful to the Corps, She remembers it being in a tray to our country, to in her daddy’s (Cliff Creamer) the mission at hand, trunk when she was a little girl. and to each other. Mr. Creamer was given the We know no matter John & Henry Bible as they were loading on what, we’ve got November 2010 • www.400edition.com
John & Ananda
each other’s back.” John had a dream of being a Marine but that choice also led him to the girl of his dreams. His duty station is in Hawaii and there he met Ananda. Only God can take a boy from Georgia and match him with a girl from Brazil and connect their hearts. They love hiking in the mountains in Hawaii, and on one hike found Kaiwa Ridge. They were married on this beautiful ridge on May 8, 2010. They stood atop a WWII bunker overlooking the Pacific Ocean and took their vows. By the time you read this, John and Ananda will have left (on October 23) to return to Hawaii. Shortly afterwards John will go back to Afghanistan, for the second time, and to his duties as a 0331
Machine Gunner. Our prayers will go with them. We pray that God will keep John wrapped in His love and that he and the well-traveled Bible will come home safe and sound. Editor’s Note: Thank you to John, Ananda, and their family for taking the time for this interview and for all the input they had on the history of their family and of the Bible. If anyone is interested in “Adopting a Marine” please contact Judy Wade at judycwade@yahoo.com or call 678-758-5898.
Secretary of Veterans Affairs Designates 54 Regional Veterans Day Observances
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ecretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki announced today the designation of 54 regional Veterans Day observances. These sites are recognized as model events for the observance of Veterans Day on November 11. “On Veterans Day we celebrate the lives and legacy of America’s 23 million living veterans,” said Shinseki. “From the National Veterans Day observance to regional celebrations nationwide, I encourage all Americans to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank our veterans for their service.” Shinseki is Chairman of the Veterans Day National Committee, which is comprised of representatives from 41 organizations dedicated to serving and supporting America’s veterans. Founded in 1954, the committee’s mission is to promote the observance of Veterans Day nationwide. Each year, the committee recognizes regional observances—including parades, ceremonies and concerts—that are dedicated to celebrating and honoring America’s veterans of all eras. The 2010 Veterans Day Regional Sites: Birmingham, Mobile, and
Montgomery, AL; Phoenix, AZ; Palm Springs and Sacramento, CA; Loveland, CO; Hartford, CT; New Castle, DE; Brevard Community College-Coco Campus and Weirsdale, FL; Atlanta and Dawson County, GA; Emporia, Leavenworth, and Valley Center, KS; Bossier-Shreveport, Bossier City, and Slidell, LA; Brunswick, MD; Sherborn, MA; Detroit, Farmington Hills, Mason, and Lansing, MI; Inver Grove Heights, MN; Biloxi and Kosciusko, MS; St. Louis, MO; Northfield, NJ; New York, NY; Charlotte, Fayetteville, Morehead City, and Warsaw, NC; Columbus and North Olmsted, OH; Ponca City, OK; Albany and Portland, OR; Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, PA; North Charleston, SC; Gatlinburg and Nashville, TN; Austin, Bonham, Dallas, and Houston, TX; Virginia Beach, VA; Auburn, Port Angeles, Vancouver, and West Richland, WA; and Milwaukee, WI. For more information about the Veterans Day regional site program, including an application for the 2011 observance, log onto the Veterans Day web site at www.va.gov/opa/ vetsday/regsites.asp. November 2010 • www.400edition.com
400 Edition 17
by Bob Merritt Life is a mirror. We look forward, that’s the future. We look back, remember and learn—that’s a reflection.
The Thirty-Fourth Man
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hile most of the world watched the rescue of the Chilean miners, some of us only watched a few as the opportunity came. I watched the first and last extraction and a few in between. As memorable as the last rescue was, it was the first one that made the biggest impression on me. During the dialogue that ensued, the newsman made reference to the thirty-three miners, which drew a quick response from the miner: “Thirty-four, there were thirty-four of us down there.” “What do you mean?” asked the reporter. Quickly the rescued miner said, “God was down there, He went in with us and will come up with the last man, He was there through it all, giving us all a peace beyond our understanding. We were rowdy sometimes, but it was a secure rowdy feeling because we all knew some way we would be rescued. We all prayed a lot and I dare say that each of our lives will be changed forever. Not only did God bring out the thirty-third man, but he brought out the volunteer rescue men who came down the shaft to make sure every man was loaded safely for the trip back up.” For many of you, it was a religious experience showing the healing and comforting spirit of God. We see in this event what we want to see; and as for me, I see God helping our own country and her people out of a misguided political cave-in. Although in Chile the miners were mining a different kind of product, I am reminded of the coal mine disaster we recently suffered in West Virginia. As this country was filling with immigrants from all over the world, many of them took up residence in America’s coal-mining areas. It was a dangerous job to have, but it was a job that allowed a certain amount of peace of mind for the miner and his family. It was something they could do despite the risk. The risk caught up with many miners and they paid with their lives. There were rare instances when all the men and boys in a family were killed in the same accident. It wasn’t unheard of for a cave-in to claim the lives of a father, his son or sons, and a cousin. The need for more money caused the family members to sometimes take risks that paid off well when there was no tragedy; but when tragedy struck it cost a lot in loss of life. Mining was much more dangerous in the early
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nineties and many a tunnel has been sealed as a mass grave for the miners lost. It might interest you to know that our editor comes from a mining background. She only entered the
mine once, and that was as a small tag-along daughter who convinced her dad to show her where he worked As the two of them stood outside the mine opening, it seemed to be quite large in the eyes of a nine-year-old daddy’s girl. As they ventured down the long tunnel, the opening got smaller. After a couple of hundred yards, all Linda could see was a small peep sight of light, and she was ready to go back. Her dad must have been surprised that she came that far. The trust and faith she had in her dad created a precious memory that has survived until this day. The mines finally stopped operating in Arkansas, and her father retired. Linda was raised in Jenny Lind, a small town just outside of Fort Smith, Arkansas. Today the mines lie dormant, but the coal is still there. Other mines dot the surrounding countryside, but they are also closed. The town had its churches, school, company stores, and graveyard. Jenny Lind is a typical
April 15, 1944 Sunshine Mine, Excelsior, Arkansas
Forrest Gibbs, Ed Gibbs, and Linda Gibbs Merritt November 2010 • www.400edition.com
small north Arkansas town, full of anticipated growth, and wealthy beyond imagination when you factor in the pride they have in their history. In the town of Greenwood, Arkansas, on October 20, 2000, the South Sebastian Historical Society dedicated a memorial in memory of the miners. The plaque on display honored them for their contribution to the heritage of the region. They are described as the heart of the past, present heritage, and the growth that is yet to come. The small park in Greenwood is well done and draws visitors every year. The life-sized statue of a bronzed miner—covered in black to represent the black coal dust that flew around them in the darkened mines, that covered their skin and filled their lungs—is a reminder to residents of Sebastian County what their heritage cost and what it produced. On a visit to the memorial site, I was joined by Linda and her two brothers, Ed and Forrest Gibbs. The visit had a special meaning to them, since so many of their relatives had their names on the wall. There was their dad, Claud Gibbs, his brothers, father, and cousins, nine in all. As we scrolled through the alphabet of names we were reminded that most of the dead were immigrants who came to America to find a better way of life for themselves and their families. Names kept popping up, like Smith (25), Elliott (6), Long (10), Hartsfield (10), and Grilc (8); four of the Grilc boys were killed in one explosion. Not all deaths were caused by cave-ins and black lung. The miners had to contend with floods, explosions, and underground accidents and injuries. When Linda’s dad started working in the mine there were no mechanical cars. They used mules to pull the heavy loads. I would imagine that there was a strong religious strain that ran through these families, and the possibility of something happening on every shift loomed large in the minds of the miners and their wives. We know that God went into the mine and stayed until they came out. We are a lot like the miner, in that our lives lead us into wars, darkened places where we shouldn’t go and situations that we shouldn’t be in. Our strength comes from our prayers to God and the faith that he always hears us.
The Christmas House – World Nativity Traditions T fashioned after the famous angel weathervane made in 1840 for the Unitarian Universalist Church in Newburyport, Massachusetts. President and Mrs. Ronald Reagan placed it on the tree in the Blue Room, and this is still where the current year’s ornament is traditionally displayed. In honor of the 250th anniversary of George Washington’s birth, the second ornament replicated a weathervane commissioned by Washington for Mount Vernon. Since then, ornaments have chronologically honored Presidents and landmark anniversaries, with the 2010 ornament honoring William McKinley and celebrating the role of music in the traditions of the White House. The exhibit will be on display Friday, December 3,
4:00pm to 7:00pm; Saturday, December 4, 1:00pm to 7:00pm; and Sunday, December 5, 1:00pm to 6:00pm, at the Dahlonega Community House, North Park Street in Dahlonega. You are invited to enjoy mulled cider and cookies as you take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the holiday season at this oneof-a-kind exhibit. The Dahlonega Woman’s Club has been in service to the community for 98 years. The club is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and all proceeds from this event are returned to the community. The tickets for this exhibit are $8.00 and are available from any Dahlonega Woman’s Club member, at Paul Thomas Chocolates, or at the door. Make plans to see this beautiful display.
Main Street Spotlight
Jasper
he Dahlonega Woman’s Club (DWC) will present an exhibit of approximately 100 nativity scenes on loan from the collection of a DWC member. This exhibit will take you on an around-the-world trip through Europe, Africa, South and Central America, the South Pacific, and back home to North America, including crèches designed by Native Americans and Appalachian craftsmen. Also included in the exhibit will be a full collection of official White House Christmas Ornaments on loan from another member, along with various trees, wreaths, and Christmas villages. In 1981 the White House Historical Association introduced the White House Holiday Ornament program. The first ornament was
November 2010 • www.400edition.com
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Dahlonega to Host 2010 Capitol Christmas Tree G
eorgia will play a key role in one of the nation’s most cherished holiday traditions when Dahlonega hosts the 75foot Capitol Christmas Tree on November 24-26 as it travels from Wyoming to Washington, D.C. Dahlonega is one of only three Southeast stops, the others being Memphis and outside of Washington, D. C. Much like the Olympic Torch run, but instead resting on a giant flatbed and accompanied by a caravan of 12 vehicles, including two semitrucks and federal escorts, the tree will make stops along the way for festivities. “This stop is a rare opportunity to get an up close and personal look at the most popular Christmas tree in the country, ‘the people’s tree,’ before it heads off to D.C.,” said Stephen Smith, Tourism Director for the Dahlonega-Lumpkin County Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau. To commemorate the occasion, Dahlonega will host special celebrations during the tree’s two-day stop. The public is invited to welcome the tree to Dahlonega with a Grand Holiday Celebration on Wednesday, November 24. The event will be held on the historic square and will feature musical entertainment, holiday performances, and appearances by state dignitaries. People will also have the opportunity to send their holiday wishes to the White House by signing a huge banner that decorates the truck. The town will be trimmed in full holiday dress, with twinkling lights, holiday garlands, bows, and décor from one end of the square to the other, adding to the festive atmosphere. “This is literally a huge deal for Dahlonega,” said Smith, who noted that the flatbed truck carrying the tree is 115 feet long and, due to curvy roads, will have to park a mile away and back all the way into the town square. “Last year, the tree’s arrival in Nashville prompted streets lined with well-wishers in similar fashion to the Olympic Torch Run,” Smith said. “People can follow the tree’s route at www.CapitolChristmasTree2010.org and check the Dahlonega web site for up-to-theminute notices.” The Capitol Christmas Tree project this year is an historic journey, delivering not only
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a tree taller than a seven-story building, but also nearly 10,000 handmade ornaments and 80 companion trees that will be placed in offices throughout the Capitol Complex. The 2010 tree will be harvested from the Bridger-Teton National Forest in western Wyoming on November 6 and will make frequent stops across the nation on its way to Washington, D.C., escorted by federal officials and arriving in the Capitol by November 29. The tree will travel on a double flatbed truck. Placed on its side, it will rest in a custom cradle that supports the branches, preventing damage and maintaining the tree’s perfect shape. The base of the tree will be fitted with a plastic bladder filled with fresh water nightly. The tree will absorb about 65 gallons of water each day throughout its 3,000mile trek to Washington, D.C. The Forest Service recommends six to eight trees for selection. However, the Superintendent of the Capitol Grounds makes the final selection and determines which tree will be the official Capitol Christmas Tree. An additional 80 companion trees will November 2010 • www.400edition.com
be delivered to the Capitol and placed in federal offices, congressional offices, and the United States Supreme Court. Afterward, the trees will be turned into mulch for the many federal buildings in Washington. Located about 70 miles north of Atlanta, Dahlonega is The Heart of the North Georgia Mountains and the gateway to the Appalachian Mountains. Known for being the site of the first major U.S. gold rush, the historic downtown district is now home to The Gold Museum, gold mines, and gold panning facilities. Dahlonega has evolved into a center for the performing and visual arts in the North Georgia mountains and hosts a number of artistic and cultural festivals each year. Many wineries have taken notice of Dahlonega’s prime growing conditions and have made the area their home. The rich, fertile hillsides and the favorable mountainous elevations make the area the perfect place to grow and ripen a wide variety of European, French hybrid, and American wine grapes. Recreational activities are available year round and include camping, golf, horseback riding, cycling, trout fishing, more than 30 waterfalls to explore, and miles of hiking trails as well as the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. Quaint shops around the square attract some of the region’s top artists and are filled with regional art, antiques, unique jewelry, and collectibles. Delightful bed and breakfasts, country inns, mountain cabins, and resorts offer a plethora of accommodation choices for every budget. The Capitol Christmas Tree’s arrival will kick off Dahlonega’s Old Fashioned Christmas, a month-long celebration that begins on Friday, November 26, with the Lighting of the Square. Santa will arrive in a real home-town parade on Saturday, December 4. Plenty of other festive holiday events will continue almost daily throughout December and will include caroling, entertainment, wine sampling, and live theater Christmas events. Additional information on Dahlonega’s Old Fashioned Christmas can be found on the Festivals tab at www.Dahlonega.org or by calling 800-2315543.
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Extended shopping hours at participating businesses continue every Friday and Saturday until Christmas. Historic Downtown Dahlonega is the premium choice for shopping in North Georgia Visit www.Dahlonega. org today! Bobber’s Fish House
Bobber’s Fish House is where you will find the best southernfried Mississippi catfish and seafood you have ever tasted. This is truly the real deal. Whether it’s the fresh rainbow trout with okra, delicious fried oyster po-boys, or the grilled Cajun alligator, you are sure to get more than your money’s worth. We also have frog legs, calamari, shrimp, bison, chicken, and the best seafood chowder ever served, with our very own fresh Bobber’s famous hushpuppies. Our prices are affordable and the food is incredible! Bobber’s is a 100-seat restaurant located just behind the historic Dahlonega Square. We have one of the largest parking lots in Dahlonega, with plenty of room for buses and motor homes. Bikers and car clubs always welcome! Open Tuesday through Saturday, 11:00am-9:00pm, Bobber’s is located at 51 Grove Street North, Dahlonega. 706-867-9151.
Paul Thomas Chocolates
Dahlonega is a sweeter place, thanks to Paul Thomas Chocolates at 102 Public Square North. Founders of Hoffman Chocolates in Florida, Paul and Lori Hoffman have brought the joy and complexity of making fine chocolate to the North Georgia mountains. We would also like you to meet our partners, Jeff and
Barbara Weltzien. You’ll want to smell and taste the sweet delights at Paul Thomas Chocolates on the Square. Specialties include milk and dark chocolate-covered pretzels, nuts, and fruit, and truffles. Take home a piece of Dahlonega with a one-ofa-kind, chunky Dahlonega Gold Bar. Stop by to see what top-notch ingredients, a lifetime of expertise, and a true passion for candy-making can produce. Open MondayThursday 10:00am-7:00pm; Friday and Saturday 10:00am-9:00pm; Sunday 11:006:00. Now you can order online! Sugar-free products also available. www.PaulThomasChocolates.com 706-864-6333
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 family-sized 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
The Oar House Restaurant
The Oar House Restaurant is a charming old house that has been transformed into a unique dining experience. Two decks overlooking the Chestatee River make this one of the most relaxing eateries in all of North Georgia. The old living room and bedrooms have been decorated in a most unique way. The Oar House’s daily menus feature savory entrees and appetizers complemented by deliciously prepared desserts and an impressive selection of wine and ales. The Oar House Restaurant’s exceptionally warm service and comfortable, relaxing surroundings provide the perfect setting for lunch after seeing the area sights, or for relaxing with a gourmet dinner while watching the Chestatee River flow by. The Oar House has won “The Best of Dahlonega” award for three years in a row, placing first in 11 categories, including “Best Steak.” The Oar House is open Monday-Thursday 11:00am-9:00pm; Friday and Saturday 11:00am-10:00pm. www.TheOarHouse.com – 706-864-9938
Be sure to tell them you saw them in 400 Edition! More Local events & places at www.Dahlonega.org or 1.800.231.5543 November 2010 • www.400edition.com
400 Edition 21
The Holidays: Reclaiming Emotional Turf after Crises
Mind and heart mind & heart
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s the holiday season approaches, an opportunity emerges for us to evaluate how we celebrate these long-standing, familyoriented traditions. For most of us, there is a certain comfortable routine and familiarity about the holidays engendered by our choosing to observe them in similar, even ritualized ways from year to year. In effect, many of the mental associations that we tend to have about the holidays have a nostalgic quality about them that is grounded in our memories of family members (especially children) at various life stages; of being in familiar surroundings; of the companionship of adult partners; and of the opportunity to demonstrate our thoughtfulness and generosity towards others. A real emotional challenge presents itself when the occurrence of the holidays happens to coincide with an ongoing or recently experienced personal life crisis. While these crises can take many forms (divorce; job termination; loss of a loved one through death; major illness; financial pressures; etc.), the common denominator underlying them is that they can all potentially dampen or otherwise complicate the experience of the holidays. Those personal crises that are most related to family and partner relationship losses seem to have the greatest capacity for triggering negative emotional states and disrupting the holidays. Many of my own patients in these circumstances have reported anticipating the holidays with a mixed sense of anxiety, dread, or sometimes even numbness. It seems that the emotional experience of the holidays is inextricably linked to the notion of family and partnering in so many ways that the idea of
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separating them is initially almost unimaginable to us. In response, it is not uncommon for individuals in these circumstances to attempt to essentially “ignore” the holidays, reasoning that these events will inevitably be doomed to being spoiled by their crisis/loss anyway and, therefore, the best strategy is to behave as if Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s Day were just ordinary days like any other. While this self-protective, detachment-oriented strategy of denial and avoidance is certainly understandable, it is also often countertherapeutic to the individual’s healing process. I tend to recommend to my own patients (as do many other therapists) that they regard their newfound, mid-crisis, or post-crisis circumstances as an opportunity to grow emotionally and to preserve the holidays as an aspect of their lives that has been important historically for them and therefore worthy of continued observance, albeit in newly modified ways. For example, a recently divorced person would be encouraged to reach out to their own family and friends (who are often reaching towards them anyway); to be present for holiday gatherings; to exchange gifts at Christmas; to maintain the spiritual aspects of the holidays if they have done so before; and perhaps even to get involved in community-based activities oriented towards helping others who are less fortunate. As one of my own patients once told me, on the heels of her having spent a Thanksgiving Day serving the homeless at a downtown shelter, the sense of perspective gained from helping others can be very useful in distracting oneself from the personal problems and preoccupations of the moment and November 2010 • www.400edition.com
Mark P. Feinsilber, Ph.D.
assigning them to a different emotional scale. It seems that the first holiday season spent un-partnered, unemployed, or amidst loss and/or change in some other way tends to be the most difficult; successive seasons tend to become progressively easier to manage even if the central life circumstances have not yet changed dramatically. One perspective that I sometimes offer to patients struggling with these times is to envision the holidays as an important acre of psychological “turf” that initially can become overrun with “trespasser emotions,” but one that nonetheless needs to be symbolically “reclaimed” by the patient. The “eviction” of these negative emotions from the holiday turf is accomplished by a very conscious decision to partake of the holidays through whatever individual and affiliative ways are meaningful and possible at the time. 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.
Does Diabetes Affect More than Just My Blood Sugar? by Allison Dupont, M.D.
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iabetes is a disease that affects the way your body handles sugar (glucose) in your blood. In a person without diabetes, the amount of sugar in the blood stays relatively constant due to the presence of a hormone called insulin. This hormone is produced by a gland called the pancreas and is responsible for sugar being removed from the blood stream. If you are a diabetic, either not enough insulin is being made by your pancreas, or the insulin that is being made does not have a normal effect on the removal of sugar from your blood. As a result, the amount of sugar in the blood stream increases. Over time, if diabetes is not treated adequately, the excess sugar causes damage inside your blood vessels. The damage makes it easier for fatty deposits (plaque) to build up on the walls of arteries, which eventually may block blood flow through them. The fatty plaque (referred to as atherosclerosis) increases your risk of a heart attack, stroke, and even amputation of a limb. In fact, the risk of having a heart attack if you are diabetic is equal to the risk faced by someone who has already had a heart attack in the past. Having diabetes does not mean that you are destined to have one of these major problems. The likelihood of a heart attack, stroke, or amputation can be drastically decreased by the close monitoring of your blood sugar, and by appropriate treatment. Some patients’ blood sugar can
be controlled with diet and/or oral medications. Depending on the type and severity of your diabetes, you may need insulin injections to obtain adequate control. There are a number of other important factors that must be considered in all diabetics as well. High blood pressure is a problem that commonly goes hand in hand with diabetes. The higher your blood pressure, the harder your heart has to work to pump blood. Getting your blood pressure down to under 130/80 decreases the strain on your heart and reduces your risk of heart attack and stroke. Exercise and weight loss typically lead to a decrease in blood sugar levels and can even resolve certain types of diabetes in some patients who are overweight. High cholesterol is another common problem in diabetic patients that adds additional risk of a heart attack or stroke. Getting your cholesterol level under control, which often requires medical therapy, reduces this risk. Lastly, if you smoke, you really need to find a way to quit. Among other health problems associated with tobacco abuse, smoking causes plaque to build up in arteries, and this effect is magnified significantly by the presence of diabetes. If you are a diabetic who smokes, you are at very high risk for having a heart attack, a stroke, or an amputation. If you are having difficulty quitting on your own, you should speak with a healthcare provider.
Johns Creek Founders Day Celebration Johns Creek’s 4th Annual “Founders Day” Celebration offers a fun-packed week after Thanksgiving culminating in a parade with Santa. The festivities begin Monday, November 29, and conclude Saturday, December 4, so mark your calendars. Last year an estimated 8,000 people lined the streets to see the 2009 NASCAR Sprint Cup Toyota Camry, lavish floats, and the United States Marine Corps band. Visit www.johnscreekga.gov for times and details. All events are free.
Calendar of events:
November 29 – Tree and dreidel lighting, school choirs; City Hall November 30 – Book readings by civic
leaders at local elementary schools December 1 – “Kids Holiday Art Workshop,” Johns Creek Arts Center December 2 – Launch of U.S. Marine Corps “Toys for Tots” drive at City Hall and fire stations. Also, “Cards for our Military” for injured or wounded military personnel can be signed at City Hall. December 3 – “Hospital Holiday Workshop with Santa,” Emory Johns Creek Hospital December 4 – 4th Annual Founders Day Parade December 4 – “Santa Jam,” Johns Creek High School
November 2010 • www.400edition.com
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Historic Forsyth by Myra Reidy
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ovember has been set aside as tradition, the Cherokee, Tsalagi, or Aniyvwiyai colony. In 1773, the Creeks and Cherokee National American Indian and Alaska migrated from the north and were thought to ceded land to pay traders for debts owed. The Native Heritage Month. Modern scientists be a southern branch of the Iroquois. Due to land to the south and west of the Tugaloo and tell us that the Native Americans migrated by conflict with the Iroquois, the migration of Savannah rivers was relinquished by the Creeks way of Beringia. This land bridge connected the white settlers, and cessions of their land, and Cherokee in 1782-83. The 1790 Treaty the two continents of Asia and North America the Cherokee were pushed farther south and of New York gave up the Upper Creek land across what became known as the Bering Strait. eventually into Georgia. from the Altamaha to Oconee rivers. In 1802, In contradiction, oral traditions said that the A conflict arose between the Creeks and the Georgia gave up its western land claims to the indigenous people originated in the Americas Cherokee. In 1755, near Taliwa at Long Swamp Mississippi River to the United States. In turn, and did not migrate from somewhere else. Creek and the Etowah River, a great Cherokee the federal government promised to remove the During the Paleolithic Period, highly mobile war chief by the name of Oconostota led 500 remaining Indian tribes from Georgia. hunters used stone to make crude tools and of his warriors to victory over a larger band In 1825, William McIntosh, the leader of weapons. Later, in the period 13,000 BC to of Creeks. So complete was the defeat that the the Creek Nation, signed the Treaty of Indian 8000 BC, some tribes began gathering their Creeks retreated south of the Chattahoochee Springs. This treaty led to the removal of the food. In the Archaic period (8000 BC to 1000 River, leaving to their opponents the region Creek tribes by 1827. An estimated 3,500 BC), the tribes started to sustain themselves later to become the heart of the ill-fated Creeks died in Alabama and further westward, through agriculture. From 2000 BC to AD Cherokee Nation.(028-1 Georgia Historical on their way to Indian Territory. Some of those 1000, there was the rise of the Woodland Indian Commission 1953). who remained took refuge in the Cherokee tribes that could be found along the eastern Through the land cessions to the white Nation. Others, in an effort to stay alive, ate border of North America. It was around this man, the Creeks and Cherokee piece by piece dead animals or boiled tree bark just to survive. time (2500 BC to AD 1560 ) that the Mound lost their homelands. In 1733, the First Creek In 1830, the Federal Indian Removal Policy Builders cultures developed. This unique cultural Cession was to James Oglethorpe, which led was endorsed by Congress. This act led to development arose in northeast Louisiana during to the establishment of the city of Savannah. the forced removal of those remaining tribes the late Archaic era, spreading inland along the The 1763 Treaty of Augusta further defined to Indian Territory west of the Mississippi. Mississippi-Missouri-Ohio River areas. lines between the Creeks and the Georgia In the Cherokee Nation, there was a conflict According to oral tradition, the between those who wanted to mighty Creek Nations migrated remove to Indian Territory and from west of the Mississippi to those who wanted to stay east of the present-day Alabama and Georgia. Mississippi River. The Cherokee The Creeks, as named by the early successfully challenged the State European explorers and settlers, were of Georgia in the U.S. Supreme thought to have descended from the Court (Worcester v. Georgia, Mississippian Mound Builders. Their 1832). However, President Andrew common culture and language were Jackson, when hearing of the similar to the Seminole. The Creek Court’s decision, reportedly said, Confederacy consisted of about 12 “[Chief Justice] John Marshall has independent tribes in Georgia. The made his decision; let him enforce it largest tribe in the Creek world was now if he can.” the Muskogee (Muscogee). In December of 1835, the United For about 400 years, the Cherokee States sought out a small group of ruled not only present-day North Cherokee. These men become the Georgia but significant areas of North signers of the New Echota Treaty. and South Carolina, Tennessee, and Only 300 to 600 Cherokee were at Alabama. They also possessed hunting New Echota at the time, and none grounds in Kentucky, Ohio, West of them were elected officials of the Poole’s Mill on Settendown Creek. Settendown, a full-blood Virginia, and parts of Virginia. By oral Cherokee Nation. Twenty signed the Cherokee, lived on this creek before the Indian Removal of 1838-39.
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treaty, ceding all of the Cherokee land east of the Mississippi to the federal government in exchange for $5 million and new homelands in Indian Territory. Chief John Ross fought for the Cherokee to remain in their lands. However, in the spring of 1838, the Cherokee were rounded up and marched to prepared stockades. As many as 4,000 Cherokee may have died while in the stockades or on the 800-mile journey west. Their ordeal has become known as the “Trail of Tears.” Approximately 170 years have passed since this event. Yet the memories of these people live
on in the hearts and minds of their descendants on both sides of the Mississippi River. The Historical Society of Forsyth County and the Georgia Chapter of Trail of Tears are working cooperatively along with many other local historical societies and organizations to preserve the history and sites of the Native Americans. The Georgia natives left their marks on our communities, creeks, and rivers. In Forsyth County, our two main rivers, the Etowah and Chattahoochee, may have received their names from the Muskogee Creeks. Settendown Creek was
Shades of Scarlett hatever happened to Thanksgiving? I know it’s somewhere between now and Christmas, but it’s hard to find evidence in the stores these days, or in sale papers or on TV or anywhere. Back in October, I noticed 10 pages—TEN pages, mind you— showing Halloween items in one sale paper. So far, as I write these words, the only reference to Thanksgiving I’ve seen is a free turkey giveaway promotion by a local food store chain. I am certain there will be more, but nothing to compare to the other “big” holidays. When I was growing up Southern, in two small towns north of Atlanta (not simultaneously, you understand) called Buckhead and Sandy Springs, Thanksgiving was BIG. It was the third biggest celebration, right there with Easter and Christmas, in my family. My mama’s family, the Blackwells, consisted of Mama and her three sisters, their three brothers, their spouses, and all 11 of my cousins. They were the celebrating side of my family. My daddy’s side, the Abernathys, was smaller (Daddy, his brother, and their two sisters), and not as exuberant. By the first of November, the Blackwell sisters and their brothers’ wives were already planning their menu for the family Thanksgiving gettogether. None of us had Thanksgiving dinner with just our immediate family. And dinner wasn’t at night; it was Thanksgiving afternoon about 3 or 4 o’clock, at the home of whoever had a house big enough to handle it. Mama started saving biscuit and cornbread crumbs for her dressing a couple of weeks before Thanksgiving, putting them in a metal tin with a lid, to keep them from getting moldy. Along about a week ahead of time, Daddy would bring home a turkey, a ham, and a beef roast. Let me explain. Daddy was a meat buyer for A & P grocery stores, and he was OUR meat
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man. Let me explain further. None of the Blackwell sisters and sisters-in-law brought only one dish to the feast. Each one brought enough for her own flock, plus enough for the Reeses. Oops! More explaining: Whenever Mama cooked more food than we could possibly eat, she always said she’d cooked enough for the Reeses. No one ever knew who these Reeses were, but it got the idea across.
Bobby, Joyce (me), Sonny, Alice, Carol, and Jack All of us were churchgoing folks, so naturally we approached Thanksgiving with grateful hearts. Some churches had a morning service on that day, and the families would each attend their own church to observe the true purpose of the day. At some churches you would see the men in their hunting garb come in with their families, place their guns in the vestibule (look that word up if you don’t understand), attend the service, then go rabbit hunting. I know, it seems strange. But hunting in my younger childhood days, in my particular surroundings, was not a sport; it was a necessity—it put food on the table. Rabbit-hunting was more or less traditional among some folks on Thanksgiving morning. Don’t ask me why. I think it was because the women wanted the men out of their kitchens. After the services, which were true soul food, the women and children
home of Settendown, a Cherokee who lived on the creek near the Matt Community. Vickery’s Creek is named for the family of Charlotte Cordery Vickery, who lived in the present-day Vickery Creek Community. The Cherokee family owned and operated a grist mill further on down the stream. These are just a few examples of how the Georgia natives left their footprints on the world that we live in today. Myra Reidy is a volunteer for the Historical Society of Forsyth and the Georgia Chapter of the Trail of Tears. Contact: myrareidy@live.com.
by Joyce Jordan went home and finished preparing the feast to carry to our get-together. We cousins got to lick cake batter, sample various dishes, inhale some of the most wonderful odors ever to occupy our noses, and wish for dinnertime to come. Finally, the time came for us to load up all the food and take off. No great big cars then, so everyone except the driver had to hold something in their lap, and keep something steady between their feet on the floorboard. That just whetted our appetites more. When we got to our destination, the celebrating began and lasted into the evening, when we would attack the table again, even though just hours before we had vowed we’d never need another bite. The laughter, the talking, the jokes and the stories, the food, the fellowship, and the just plain thankfulness for being together made each Thanksgiving special and different from all others. During World War II, some chairs were empty, and as cousins grew older and left home, other chairs were empty. But wherever we ended up, all of us remember, and cherish, the day set aside to count our blessings in a very meaningful and heartfelt way. So I say “Happy Thanksgiving” to all of you. Don’t let it get squashed out of your lives. Joyce Jordan is a native Georgian who enjoyed a 30-yr. career as a journalist and radio personality, working in Forsyth and Lumpkin Counties. She’s now a freelance writer, living happily in Dawsonville,GA.
November 2010 • www.400edition.com
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Events, 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. November 1, All Saints Day November 2, Election Day November 7, Daylight Saving Time ends November 11, Veterans Day November 25, Thanksgiving
Alpharetta
Wish For Wendy Softball Challenge and Silent Auction
November 9, 9:00am to 7:00pm. Alpharetta North Park ball fields. Join the fun at the 11th Annual Wish For Wendy Softball Challenge and Silent Auction benefiting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Come for the fun, sample the food, and join our March to a Million to find a cure for cystic fibrosis. Softball, celebrities, music, and a clown for the kids are just a few of the all-day event highlights. Silent auction items include sports memorabilia, art, gift certificates, salon services, and more. For more information: www.wishforwendy.org.
Atlanta
Frankly Speaking About Lung Cancer
November 9, 6:00pm to 8:30 pm. Cancer Support Community, 5775 Peachtree Dunwoody Road, Building C, Suite 225. Dinner is provided. Nishan Farnando, MD, with Georgia Cancer Specialists, Board Certified in Oncology and Hematology, will present the program. This free workshop will cover the latest treatments for lung cancer. Learn about side effects, side effect management, and tools to help you overcome the social and emotional challenges of the diagnosis. RSVP: 404-843-1880.
Cumming
Business Accelerating Group
November 3, 11:45am to 1:00pm. Golden Corral. Please join us for our weekly meeting each Wednesday at noon at Golden Corral (Market Place Blvd. at Buford Dam Road, in front of Best Buy). Business Network International® (BNI®) is a business referral organization
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whose primary purpose is to assist its members to find and exchange qualified business referrals for each other and develop effective wordof-mouth marketing techniques. For more information: Annette Walden Mason, 770-887-6792 or Annette@PaintedLadyEnterprises.com.
3rd Annual Georgia Senior Follies Auditions
November 3, 7:00pm to10:00pm, The Cumming Playhouse. November 6, 10:00am to 3:00pm, Cumming City Hall. Georgia Senior Follies, LLC, is looking for singers, dancers (tap, ballroom, Hawaiian, jazz, etc.), musicians, duos, trios, small vocal or dance groups, novelty acts, impersonators, comedians, jugglers, acrobats, magicians, and more. Auditions by appointment only; call 678 455-6110 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. Bring your resume and headshot, if available. Must be 55 years young or better by April 7, 2011, to be eligible to audition. Show dates: April 7-17, 2011, at the historic Cumming Playhouse in downtown Cumming.
Christmas Bazaar
November 6, 8:30am to 1:00pm. Cumming First United Methodist Church, 770 Canton Highway. Brunch and lunch, crafts in Rudolph’s Corner, Kid’s Shop, breakfast with Santa ($10 paid reservation required), pictures with Santa, handmade decorations and ornaments, homemade cookies and baked goods. Find unique Christmas gifts and that one-of-a-kind Christmas item. For more information: 770-887-2900 or www.cfumcga.com.
Cumming Steam, Antique Tractor, and Gas Engine Exposition
November 12, 10:00am to 6:00pm; November 13, 8:00am to 6:00pm. Cumming Fairgrounds, 235 Castleberry Road. Come and join us for a weekend of fun and a step back in time. Working exhibits such as a cotton gin, saw mill, shingle mill, baker fan, and many others. Vendors and exhibitors get in free and we have campsites available with full hook-ups. For more information: John Walls, 770-886-3507 or johnhn_ walls@genpt.com; or Michael Moore, michael.moore@langsigns.com. Admission: 13 & up: $5.00; 12 and under: Free.
“A Holiday Home-Cumming” November 13, 8:00pm; November 14, 3:00pm. The Noteworthy Show Band of the South, featuring The Bob Russell Singers and other special guests. The Cumming Playhouse, 101 School Street. For more information: 770-781-9178 or www.playhousecumming.com.
Holidays Americana
November 18-19, 8:00pm. The Cumming Playhouse, 101 School Street. This year’s eighth holiday presentation by LCS Productions, Inc., will combine a tribute to Thanksgiving and a celebration of Christmas. You will tap your toes to fiddle tunes, thrill to songs from the war years, and hum along to tunes from the ’50s. A trip down Memory Lane with selections of Broadway music and favorite movie tunes; Christmas music interspersed with holiday vignettes. This wonderful look at Thanksgiving and Christmas contains something of interest for every age group, including a children’s choir to appeal to the little ones. Cast is composed of area church musicians, music teachers, well-known local performers, and members of the Cumming Playhouse Singers. The first half closes with a truly stunning patriotic number; the show closer is a glorious arrangement of a memorable Christmas song guaranteed to lift your spirits and usher in the holiday season. For more information: 770-781-9178 or www.playhousecumming.com.
November 2010 • www.400edition.com
Christmas in Cumming
December 10, 4:00pm to 10:00pm; December 11, 10:00am to 5:00pm. Inside the heated Cumming Livestock Barn at the Cumming Fairgrounds. The show, with over 100 festive booths, attracts over 7,500 people. Admission $1.00; children 12 and under free. Free photos with Santa in the barn on Friday from 6:00pm to 9:00pm, and Saturday from 12:00pm to 3:00pm. On Friday from 7:00pm to 10:00pm, there will be a Christmas Light Show, hayrides, roasting marshmallows, and caroling. Local elementary school 5th grade and church choruses starting at 7:00pm on Friday. Don’t miss this opportunity to shop for unique hand-made gift item for someone special. For more information: Bill Watson, 770-423-1330 or www.jrmmanagement.com.
Dahlonega
Dahlonega Woman’s Club 8th Annual Spaghetti Supper
November 2, 4:30pm to 7:30pm. Lumpkin County Park & Rec. Dinner includes a generous portion of spaghetti and sauce, tossed salad, garlic bread, beverage, and dessert. Tickets: $8.00/adults, $5.00/students (including NGCSU). Dine-in or takeout. Tickets available now from club members (contact Lana Hootselle, 404-680-2874, or lhootselle@ windstream.net), and at the door. This is one of DWC’s major fundraisers for 2010, and all proceeds go towards the many community projects the club is involved with every year, including college scholarships.
Rainbow Children’s Home Lobster Boil Dinner
November 5, 6:00pm. Achasta Clubhouse. A fundraising event for Rainbow Children’s Home of Dahlonega; all net proceeds go to the operation of the Home. The evening includes cocktails, dinner, silent auction, door prizes, and brief program. Dinner includes a delicious 1½+ lb. live Maine lobster, clam chowder, fresh Maine blueberry crisp, and all the “Down-East” Maine extras. Two wine or beer tickets are included with each dinner. A cash bar will also be available. Tickets $100 per person. Seating is limited, so purchase your tickets early. For additional information and to purchase tickets online with
Events, Events! a credit card for a small processing fee, go to the RCH website at www.rainbowchildrenshome.org and click on “Fundraising Events.” Or you can mail your check made out to “Rainbow Children’s Home” to Ann Williams, Rainbow Board Chairperson, 176 Nix Point Road, Dawsonville, GA 30534. For more information: Melinda Rollins-Frausto, executive director, 706-864-5110.
Hemlockfest
November 5-7. A benefit event to save the Hemlock Trees. Three days of live music, activities for all ages, good food, arts and crafts, free canoeing, children’s nature village, rustic-living demos, primitive camping available. For tickets and information: www.hemlockfest.org or 706-867-5157.
Seventh Annual Dahlonega Literary Festival and Writer’s Conference
November 13-14. A celebration of books, authors, and literacy. Located throughout Dahlonega’s historic Public Square will be book signings and readings by some of today’s top authors, as well as the return of the popular literary scavenger hunt. Past authors have included Steve Berry and Catherine Coulter, Mary Kay Andrews, Cassandra King, Steve Savage, Williams Rawlings, Jr., Philip Lee Williams, River Jordan, and Raymond Atkins. Our Literary Trade Show will feature emerging writers, book sellers, publishing information, and other items related to the literary field. Make plans to attend our aspiring writers conference on November 13 at North Georgia College & State University. For more information: www.literaryfestival.org.
Arrival of the Nation’s Capitol Christmas Tree
November 24 through 26. Free. The historic gold rush town will host the 75-foot official Capitol Christmas Tree as it makes its way from the Teton National Forest to Washington, D.C. Much like the Olympic Torch run, but resting on a giant flatbed instead, and accompanied by a caravan of 12 vehicles, including two semi-trucks and assorted other escorts. People will have the opportunity to send their holiday wishes by signing a huge banner that decorates the truck. Dahlonega will be trimmed in full holiday dress, with twinkling
lights, holiday garland, bows, and décor from one end of the square to the other, adding to the festive atmosphere. Details are available at www.Dahlonega.org.
Dahlonega’s Old Fashioned Christmas
Beat the Drum
November 13, 7:00pm to 10:00pm. Lakeview Center Complex. UGA’s Dr. Arvin Scott will be heading up a Community Drum Circle. Bring a drum and learn from Georgia’s best drummers. For more information: Mike Sears, 770-527-8604 or
mike@lifesartphotography.net.
Reindeer Run 5K Run & Walk
December 11, 8:30am to 11:00am. Dawsonville Food Lion (downtown Dawsonville). Come enjoy the season with a 5K race or walk. Music, awards, and good
November 26-December 31. The Capitol Christmas Tree’s arrival will kick off Dahlonega’s Old Fashioned Christmas, a month-long celebration that begins on November 26, with the Lighting of the Square. Santa will arrive in a real home-town parade on December 4. Plenty of other festive holiday events will continue almost daily throughout December and will include caroling, entertainment, wine sampling, and live theater Christmas events. For more information: www.Dahlonega.org or 800-231-5543
The Christmas House - World Nativity Traditions
December 3, 4:00pm to 7:00pm; December 4, 1:00 to 7:00pm; December 5, 1:00pm to 6:00pm. The Community House, corner of North Park and Hawkins Street (2 blocks from the square). Experience the wonder of Christ’s birth depicted in approximately 100 nativity sets from Europe, Africa, South & Central America, the South Pacific, and North America, including creches designed by Native Americans and Appalachian craftsman. Also included in the display will be a full collection of official White House Christmas Ornaments, plus various trees, wreaths, and Christmas villages. Cookies and cider will be served. Presented by the Dahlonega Woman’s Club. Admission $8.00; all proceeds go to the local community. Tickets available at Paul Thomas Chocolate, at the door, or email ynativities@yahoo.com.
Dawsonville
Annual Veterans Day Celebration
November 11, 3:00pm parade; 4:00pm ceremony. Dawson Middle School, no admission fee. The National Veterans Day Committee in Washington, D.C., has again designated Dawsonville as a Regional Site for its 2010 Veterans Day Celebration. For more information: www.dawson.org.
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Events,
times. Benefiting Ric Rack Food Bank. For more information: Lowell Starr, 770-633-5511 or lstarr3@mindspring.com.
media, why join in, and how and why to start. For more information: Morgan Blakely, 770-531-5681 or mblakley@georgiasbdc.org.
Duluth
Social Media Intermediate Class
Stone Mountain Barbershop Chorus
November 15, 7:00pm. Hudgens Center for the Arts, at the southeast end of the Gwinnett Center complex, 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy # 300. The Stone Mountain Barbershop Chorus, a chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society, invites all area men who love to sing to an open house and guest night. Experience with fourpart male harmony, and the ability to read music, are not required. On guest night, you’ll hear us sing a few; then we’ll teach you a song or two to sing with the chorus. You’ll love the old familiar songs rich with harmony and you’ll enjoy the fellowship of other singers. Easy entry to the complex from Satellite Blvd. across from Chick-Fil-A. Upon entering, the Fine Arts School is on the left. For more info, call 770-978-8053, visit our website: www.StoneMountainChorus.org.
Ellijay
“Smoke on the Mountain”
November 12, 7:30pm; November 13, 2:00pm. GAHA Community Theater presents “Smoke on the Mountain” with Tater Patch Players. $15 per person, limited general admission seating. The Tater Patch Players’ fourth production of the 2010 season will make you laugh, maybe bring a tear, and certainly make you clap hands and want to sing along. For more information: www.gilmerarts.org.
Light Up Ellijay
November 27, 6:00pm to 10:00pm. Light up Ellijay with Christmas Lights on the Square in beautiful and historic Downtown Ellijay. For more information: 706- 635-7400 or www.gilmerchamber.com
Gainesville
Social Media Basics Class
November 12, 8:30am to 11:30am. Small Business Development Center, 999 Chestnut Street. Learn to use Social Media tools to build your customer base. Social Media: The Basics will explore what is social
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November 2010 • www.400edition.com
November 12, 1:00pm to 4:00pm. Small Business Development Center, 999 Chestnut Street. Learn to use Social Media tools to build your customer base. Part II of the Social Media Series includes more advanced training on the use and implementation of the Social Media environment. The afternoon seminar topics will introduce tools and resources to automate and link your accounts, where to find relevant content, social media related resources, and finding and attracting prospects. For more information: Morgan Blakely, 770-531-5681 or mblakley@georgiasbdc.org.
Jasper
Fur Ball
November 6. Chattahoochee Tech. Benefit the Pickens Animal Rescue. Silent auction, dancing, seated dinner, music by The Glow Band. $75 ticket donation. For more information: 404-408-7695.
“Smoke on the Mountain”
November 4-6, 7:30pm. Tater Patch production “Smoke on the Mountain.” Pickens County Chamber of Commerce. Marcia Wright directing; Thelma (Bay) Cagle Music Director. Tickets/Signup: Adults $12; students $8 ($2 more at the box 0ffice). Tickets at Jasper Drug and Community Bank of Pickens County; online tickets and information at www.taterpatchplayers.org.
Johns Creek
Founders Day Celebration
November 29-December 4. Johns Creek’s 4th Annual Founders Day Celebration offers a fun-packed week after Thanksgiving, culminating in a parade with Santa. All events are free. For more information: johnscreekga.gov.
Roswell
Unity Garden Workday at the Chattahoochee Nature Center
November 13, 9:00am to12:00pm. Volunteers help our Unity Garden grow. Gardening is good for your
Events! mind, body, and community, so come help us prepare our Unity Garden for winter. Fall workdays focus on bed preparation, planting, and harvesting of crops for donation to North Fulton Community Charities. For more information and to volunteer: Libby Lintel, Community Garden Coordinator, 770-992-2055 x 253 or l.lintel@chattnaturecenter. org; or Lisa Cole, Horticulturalist, l.cole@chattnaturecenter.org.
Sandy Springs
Fourth Annual Fall Back 5K Run/Walk
November 7, Concourse Athletic Club, 8 Concourse Parkway. 5K starts at 2:00pm, 1 mile walk/run starts at 2:45pm, Tot Trot starts at 3:00pm. This is the Cancer Support Community’s fourth annual walk/run on the day we change our clocks back an hour. A fun day for the entire family will include a free MoonWalk, food from Sweet Tomatoes, and fun outdoors for all. Registered participants get a long-sleeved T-shirt. Registration is $25 after November 1 and day of race. All proceeds benefit the Cancer Support Community. Sign up at www.fallback5k.kintera.org. For more information: 404-843-1880.
Sautee Nacoochee
Tale of Two Charlies
November 18-20, 8:00pm to 10:00pm; November 21, 2:00 pm. Center Theatre. A storytelling by Jo Carson. Polygamy and prosperity, a killing and a hanging—a 19th century love story set in the Appalachian mountains. For more information: Terri Edgar, 706-878-3300 or tedgar@snca.org; www.snca.org.
Tate
Tate Days
November 6-7, 10:00am to 4:00pm. A celebration of the heritage of Tate. The day starts off Saturday with a parade through the residential streets of Tate. Theme for the year is
“Marble Valley: A Treasure Rich and Rare.” Arts and crafts on Saturday (9:00am to 5:00pm) and Sunday (9:00am to 4:00pm) in the Old Tate Gym. BBQ plate lunches for sale in the Old Tate Gym on Saturday, along with background music and the mini class reunions for students of Tate High School. The Hall of Fame inductee will be announced at a reception at Cool Springs Baptist Church on Saturday evening. A photo contest is in the works. Hot dogs and hamburgers being sold in the Old Tate Gym on Sunday for lunch. Lots of fun and entertainment being planned.
Young Harris Thanksgiving Buffet at Brasstown Valley Resort
November 25, 12:00 noon to 7:00pm. Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa. Start your holiday season off right and join us as we transform our mountain lodge into a holiday wonderland. Our Thanksgiving buffet is well known around northeast Georgia as the place to bring your family on this very special day. Our team of professional chefs offer a mouthwatering buffet that just can’t be beat. Our Annual All-you-can-eat Thanksgiving Buffet: Adults $39.95, children 6-12 $18.95, children under 5 free. Menu is available for review; reservations are strongly recommended. To make reservations: 706-379-9900 or brasstownvalley. com. For more information: Karen Rogers, 706-379-4606 or krogers@brasstownvalley.com.
Holiday Arts & Crafts Show
November 26-27, 10:00am to 5:00pm. Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa. The holiday Arts & Crafts show is a juried event with outstanding and talented vendors. There will be a children’s area set up for the kids to do holiday crafts. No charge to attend. For more information: Karen Rogers, 706-379-4606 or krogers@brasstownvalley.com.
November 2010 • www.400edition.com
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400 Edition Wining & Dining
Knowing Wine
by Nancy Forrest
Cain Vineyard and Winery
C
ain Vineyard & Winery is located in Napa Valley, California. It produces three Cabernet blends, each with its own distinctive characteristics. They are the Cain Cuvée, the Cain Concept, and the Cain Five. The founders, Jerry and Joyce Cain, purchased the 550-acre vineyard in 1980. Their wine is the classic blend of the five Bordeaux varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. Varying in elevation from 1,400 to 2,100 feet (450–675 meters), the vineyard is in a bowl along the crest of the Mayacamas Range and overlooks the Napa Valley and Saint Helena. The weather in the area is different from that down in the valley. It is generally cooler throughout most of the
year. But at some times of the year, the coldest air will settle onto the floor of the valley and the warmer air will rise, so the vineyard is less likely to experience the spring frosts that the valley terrain will have. When the grapes are developing all of their aromas and flavors, their vines are exposed to the warm morning sun, allowing them to ripen slowly for maximum fruitiness. The Cains —Randle Cotgrave also use selective irrigation methods during the summer and fall to meet the vines’ needs to ripen to the best quality of fruit. All details and aspects of this vineyard, from their elevation to their soil content to their carefully planted vines, make the difference in their fine wine production. Cain is truly a spectacular wine.
“Eat bread at pleasure, drink wine by measure.”
Real Men Cook Pecan Pie Cheesecake
Cain Cuvée – Aromatic complexity. Silky with dark black fruit of blackberries, blueberries, and plums, jammy with spice, chocolate. Drink with food. $30 Cain Concept – Primarily Cabernet Sauvignon. Flavors of chocolate and cocoa, coffee, tea, and raspberry. $50 Cain Five – Composed of the five classic varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. Wellblended complex wine. Firm texture, with flavors of red cherries and spice. Long finish. $100
by Patrick Snider
Graham Cracker Crust
1 1/2 cups graham crackers 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted 1/4 cup sugar Crush graham crackers in food processor, or seal in plastic bag and crush with rolling pin. Mix cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in bowl. Press in bottom of 9-inch springform pan, and 1 1/2 inches up the side; freeze.
Alternate Vanilla Wafer Crust
1 3/4 cups vanilla wafer crumbs 1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar 1/3 cup butter, melted Preheat oven to 350°. Combine wafer crumbs and brown sugar. Stir in melted butter. Press into bottom and up sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 6 minutes. Set aside to cool.
Pecan Filling
1 cup sugar 1 cup dark corn syrup 1/4 cup butter, melted 3 eggs 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and simmer until thickened, about 8-10 minutes, stirring constantly. Pour into crust and set aside.
Cheesecake Filling
3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened 1 1/4 cups firmly packed brown sugar 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 4 eggs 2/3 cup heavy whipping cream 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Reduce oven to 325°. With a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat cream cheese at medium speed until creamy. Add
brown sugar and flour and beat until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each one. Stir in cream and vanilla. Pour over pecan filling. Bake for 1 hour. Turn off oven and leave cheesecake in oven with the door closed for 1 hour. Remove from oven and run a knife along the outside edges to loosen cheesecake from sides of pan. Let cool.
Pecan Topping
1 cup sugar 2/3 cup dark corn syrup 2 tablespoons butter, melted 2 eggs 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and simmer until thickened, about 8-10 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes. Pour over top of cheesecake and spread evenly. Chill for at least 4 hours before serving.
by Vanessa McBrayer
Restaurant Reviews for the GA 400 Corridor Appalachia Grill 3909 Steve Tate Rd. Marble Hill, GA 30148 770-893-3389 | appalachiagrill.com Fare: American | Price: Moderate | Atmosphere: Casual elegance Let me create the setting for you… tables topped with fresh flowers and wine glasses that reflect the flickering glow of nearby candles, ladies laughing with each other while the men contentedly smile at the pleasure of their company, rustic yet elegant décor mixed with eclectic finds, and a live band playing old favorites that make everyone move a little in their seats to the beat of the music. The smells…awww… the smells of freshly made sauces blanketing the most delicious-looking dishes—these are the precursors to a wonderful dinner experience. From crab cakes perched on top of a bed of sautéed spinach, tomatoes, and mushrooms with a pecan pesto cream sauce, or the fresh fish special served over parmesan
risotto, to filet mignon topped with herb butter and sautéed shrimp accompanied by red-skinned roasted potatoes and grilled asparagus spears, Appalachia: An American Grill is a food connoisseur’s heaven. My husband, Michael, and I headed to this off-the-beaten-path restaurant after a long, hard week of work and on an empty stomach. Thankfully, the drive is short and it helps that it is also quite lovely. It’s just twenty minutes from either GA400 or I-575. (From GA400, take 53 toward Tate and turn right onto Steve Tate Highway. From I-575, take 53 toward Dawsonville and turn left onto Steve Tate Highway.) Appalachia Grill is a stone’s throw from Big Canoe, but attracts people from all around North
Georgia, and some from even further away. Appalachia Grill is a charming yellow cottage tucked into the forest, surrounded by gardens and fronted by a gorgeous patio deck for outdoor seating. We were greeted like family, with hugs, as were many others we saw come in. Dining at Appalachia is more like attending a dinner party at your friend’s chalet in the mountains than having dinner at a stuffy fine-dining restaurant. We started with cornmeal dusted alligator bites, which were amazingly tender, and a sweet garlic and bacon salad topped with blue cheese crumbles, the perfect combination of sweet and salty. Our waiter gladly recited the specials for us but we decided on menu items. The menu is redone from time to time just to keep everyone’s taste buds guessing, but the old favorites remain. I ordered the crab cakes while Michael ordered the filet mignon. Soon our dinner arrived. My crab cakes were crispy on the outside and tender with succulent crab meat on the inside. The bed of sautéed spinach was melt-in-my-mouth wonderful. Michael’s steak was tender and juicy and left his plate full of the most incredible sauce that begged to be soaked up with a bite of bread or potato. We opted not to have dessert, since we were almost shamefully full. But we had no regrets about overstuffing ourselves at this meal,
November 2010 • www.400edition.com
because every bite was unique unto itself and a moment savored. Swapping bites while sharing stories is one of our favorite pastimes, and there is no better place than this to do it. Always on the lookout for the best dining experience, Michael and I have been to some of the best restaurants around and had decided years ago that this was our favorite. It has been consistently great every single time. Owners Krissy and Jason Fitts met at the restaurant twelve years ago on the Fourth of July and were married three short months later. The two worked side by side at the restaurant. Krissy waited tables and Jason was the manager. When the couple decided to purchase the restaurant, they already had everything in place for a seamless transition because they had been working to perfect it all along. Today, along with parenting three little girls— the oldest already saying that she wants to go to culinary school—running the restaurant is their life’s work. Their passion for perfection shows in every detail, from the creative dishes to the gourmet in-house-made deserts. It also shows in the hard work of their dedicated staff , who are completely focused on bringing the ultimate dining experience to life. Whether you’re looking for the best food, the best atmosphere, the best service, or the best combination of the three, Appalachia: An American Grill defines good eating.
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