Appalachian Country Living, Feb-March 2020

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

Life is Always Better on the

PORCH

PORCH LIFE 365 BELIEVES THAT THE HEART AND SOUL OF YOUR HOME IS THE PORCH FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

DEER RESISTANT & NATIVE PLANTS FROM SPECIALIST STEVE MONTGOMERY APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

COMING SOON! THE THIRD ANNUAL GEORGIA MOUNTAIN NEEDLE ARTS FESTIVAL WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

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DISCOVER THE NEW NOR T H G E OR G I A MO U N TA I N S a t C o v e r e d B r i d g e E s t a t e s i n E l l i j a y, G A .

A peaceful mountain community less than a hour north of Atlanta!

$2,500 toward toward your yourDesign Design Selections Selections $2,500 if you use use our our Preferred Preferred Builder Builder and and if you th purchase before March 15th 2020. purchase before November 5 2017

Whether you’re searching for your first mountain home, vacation retreat or planning your retirement, Covered Bridge Estates is right for you.

Our community offers an abundance of lifestyle opportunities. Watch wildlife from your balcony. Take a leisurely walk on paved roads throughout the gated community. Covered Bridge Estates is just a stone's throw away from Carter's Lake and the entrance to the Appalachian Trail where recreation opportunities such as hiking, boating, and mountain biking abound. Enjoy the convenience of local vineyards, dining & antique shops. Visit the historic downtown square, and enjoy the Annual Apple Festival.

Covered Bridge Estates... the next place you will want to call home.

Community Features · Sales office open daily

· Gated entrance w/cameras

· Homes starting in mid 200's

· Homesites starting in mid 30's

· Several home plans to choose from 1700 - 2500 sq. ft. of living area

· Incredibly low HOA fees · 1 to 3-acre build-able homesites

Contact Kylie Jackson at 706-669-4177 or kylie@estatesatcoveredbridge.com Or Visit www.estatesatcoveredbridge.com • 481 Bridge Road, Ellijay, GA 30540

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MOVE-IN FEATURE MOVE-IN HOMES • • HOMES HOMES IL

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Use Brown Haven Design Center Open Daily “The Esteemed and Preferred Builder for Covered Bridge Estates” or Bring Your Own Builder

· Professionally planned community

AVAILABLE 2 G NOW LE SPRI N

AB

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Not valid with any other offers. Exclusions apply.

See store for details. Enter code “APPLIV” online or in-store. Offer expires 4/30/20.

3310 Blue Ridge Drive Blue Ridge, GA 30513

706-492-3071 AbernathysFurniture.com

6.9 miles North of Blue Ridge on Hwy 5 toward McCaysville. | Monday - Saturday 9:00am - 5:30pm

WELCOME TO AC LIVING MAGAZINE PUBLISHER | EDITOR IN CHIEF Alice Sexton

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Here we are, after the “Never Ending Holiday,” where most of us forgot what day it was, pretty much every day. Yep. It was a busy schedule.

Made cookies with my friend Joanne. My motorcycling friend Sarah visited right before the holidays. Pretty cool, she helped me cut down and decorate my tree, not bad for a city girl.

The next day my brother (who had just driven down from York, PA), his GF and I drove to Atlanta for another friend’s open house.

Monday was lost. Xmas Eve my brother and I celebrated our parents with Manhattans and a steak dinner at my cabin. Xmas morning, we opened a few small gifts and then took the dogs on a big hike ending at my friend While she does look skeptical, Maxine Morgan’s for Mimosas! is hoping for the best from that crock Can any of us believe it’s 2020? pot, trust me I know. Thanks Joann!

New Year’s Eve here on my little mountain was celebrated with family, friends and neighbors, ringing in 2020 at 9:30pm sharp!

Yes, the dogs. Maxine and Billy Zoom were excited to have guests. At every minute they were plying their polite begging tricks on anyone and everyone who had a fork. Thwarted by all, they resumed their usual spots of waiting as instructed; couch, dog bed, or my bed. I don’t get a lot of visitors, so Maxine and Billy get a bit of leeway before I send them to lie down.

February and March bring us some exciting events; Valentine’s Day/Weekend, the Fire & Ice Chili Cook Off and Craft Beer Festival and of course St. Paddy’s Day. New this year is the debut of the Blue Ridge Film Festival coming to town at the end of February with a special event. THIS IS LOVE will screen at the Blue Ridge Community Theater at 6:30pm on February 28 as part of the Blue Ridge Film Festival, followed by an 8pm live concert by legendary soul/funk band Rudy Love & The Love Family.

While it’s still pretty doggone cold outside, it’s never too early to think about Spring and updating your outdoor living spaces. Porch Life 365 Custom Enclosures is your local source for enhancing anyone’s porch life. Just take a look at the awesome projects featured in this issue and you’ll find yourself thinking, “Yeah, I could live with that!”

Once again it’s time for the Georgia Mountain Needle Arts Festival. Now in their 3rd year, GMNAF is really taking off, adding outdoor booths and food trucks. Hobbyists, artisans and professional needle arts enthusiasts all find this a charming and educational event.

Are you ready for Spring? Let’s hope so! The upcoming April/May Issue is one you won’t want to miss featuring a complete listing of festivals and fairs in the north Georgia Mountains throughout the summer. Since the temp outside right now is 21˚ F, and my woodstove is working over-time, I can’t believe I just typed the word summer.

Stay Warm My Friends!

There are two reasons why his name is Billy Zoom, one is that you can barely get a photo of him standing still. My tired little, old guy sleeping next to the warmth of the woodstove.

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ARTIST IN RESIDENCE Betty Kossick | bkwrites4u@hotmail.com GARDEN| LANDSCAPE EDITOR Steve Montgomery | steve@smac.com HISTORY EDITOR Leslie Barker Thomas | PresHist@etcmail.com OUTDOOR ADVENTURE EDITOR Your Business Here STYLE & DESIGN EDITOR Cindy Trimble | cindy@studiotrimble.com ADVERTISING SALES NORTH Blue Ridge, Blairsville, Young Harris & Hiawassee, GA Murphy, Andrews, Brasstown & Hayesville, NC Chelsea Underwood 706. 897. 4419 | adswithchelsea@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES SOUTH Ellijay, Talking Rock, Jasper, Ball Ground, Canton & Woodstock, GA Tonia Sheppard 404. 784. 0620 | adswithtonia@gmail.com ALL INQUIRIES Appalachian Country Living 706. 492. 5070 | alice@blueridgemediagroup.com LAYOUT/DESIGN Alice Sexton | Blue Ridge Media Group 706. 492. 5070 | alice@blueridgemediagroup.com DISTRIBUTION Arthur Pope Publication Marketing & Distribution, Inc. 770. 807. 3043 | publicationsinc@att.net CONTRIBUTORS Justin Rush Photography, Square Frame Media Photography, Janice and Karen Moss, Christy Singleton, Maxine & Billy Zoom

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING MAGAZINE PO Box 1250, Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706. 492. 5070 hello@blueridgemediagroup.com www.aclivingmagazine.com

PLEASE RECYCLE

Appalachian Country Living Magazine is published six times a year. All rights reserved under International and Pan-American copyright conventions. Reproduction of this work in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Appalachian Country Living is printed in the United States of America. The articles contained in this magazine are works of journalism and do not represent the opinions or ideas of Appalachian County Living Magazine and the publisher assume no responsibility for the content of advertisements. While we welcome submissions, the magazine is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. Please do not send originals. The magazine is given away free by advertisers and at selected businesses in the region. A one year subscription is $20 per year for six issues. For renewals, new subscriptions, or any other correspondence, write to PO Box 1250 Blue Ridge, GA 30513.

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

Make

in Ellijay

THE PLACE for Your Home Shopping!

• Lumber & Building Supplies • Garden Center & Farm Supplies • Furniture & Appliances

• Carhartt, Wrangler, & Multiples Clothing • Georgia Boots, Rocky Boots, Chippewa, & more...

• Stihl, Yeti, and Traeger

HOME DECOR AND MORE MAKE PERFECT GIFTS

MADE HERE AT ACE, SWINGING PORCH BED

Much More Than A Hardware Store!

305 South Main Street Ellijay, GA 30540 706. 635. 2236

Blue Ridge Coin Shop and Collectibles THE LITTLE STORE THAT PAYS YOU MORE!

We Buy and Sell Coins and Collectibles Coins • Gold • Silver • Jewelry • Currency Free In-Store Appraisals

1901 Appalachian Hwy Blue Ridge, GA In the Dogwood Plaza

ANTIQUES, GIF TS & HOME FURNISHINGS 20,00 SQUARE FEET | 125 DEALERS

706. 632. 3127

706.635.2327

www.BlueRidgeCoinShop.com

Find us at Hwy. 515 and Maddox Rd. next to Ingles 240-B Old Orchard Square • East Ellijay, GA 30540 Blackbearantiques blackbearantiques1

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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CONTENTS

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Spotlight, 7 Restaurant Cabin Coffee Co. Just Be Happy and Have Fun at Cabin Coffee Co. in Blairsville, GA.

9 Aging in Place

Style & Design Editor Cindy Trimble Asks, “Is Your Home Ready for Retirement?”

11 Native & Deer Resistant Plants

Garden & Landscape Editor Steve Montgomery Gives Us Tips for Living with Deer.

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12 The Heart and Soul of Your Home

Porch Life 365 Custom Enclosures Truly Believes That What Makes Your House a Home is the Porch.

Annual GA Mountain Needle 24 3rd Arts Festival & Retreat

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Lovely Ellijay, GA Provides the Perfect Backdrop for This Weekend Festival.

26 Calendar of Events

Valentine’s Day, Fire & Ice Chili Cook Off, St. PETrick’s Day, Music, Theater and More!

ON THE COVER WWW.AC

Porch Life 365 Custom Enclosures offers a variety of specialty products designed to increase the comfort and enjoyment of ‘porch sitting.’

Porch Life 365 is a local, family owned and operated business.

Give them a call and let their family help your family turn your porch into your custom retreat. Because after all, life is always better on the porch.

LIVINGMA GAZINE.COM | FEBRUA RY/MARC H 2020

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PORCH

VES E 365 BELIE PORCH LIFHEART AND THAT THE UR HOME IS SOUL OF YOH THE PORC /MARCH FEBRUARY

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2020

TANT & DEER RESIS TS FROM AN NATIVE PL STEVE IST IAL EC SP RY MONTGOME G

TRY LIVIN

IAN COUN

APPALACH

ON! THE COMING SO AL GEORGIA NU THIRD AN NEEDLE ARTS IN TA MOUN 1 FESTIVAL E.COM

MAGAZIN

IVING WWW.ACL

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Photo by Justin Rush & Rush Photography, www.rushphotos.net

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

AC LIVING RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT

289 Highland Crossing East Ellijay, GA 30540 In Front of Lowe’s

NEW!

Appetizer Sampler Platter

CABIN COFFEE DOWNTOWN BLAIRSVILLE

STEAK & SUSHI R E S TA U R A N T

Dollar Sushi Night! Tuesdays 4:30 - 8:30pm Discounted Sake, Wine & $1.50 Beer

Lunchtime U-Pick 2 Sushi Rolls $9.99

Includes Miso Soup and Ranch or Ginger Salad

706. 698. 2222

Fresh Roasted Coffee Everyday I-FI FREE W

Breakfast: Sandwiches, Pastries, Cinnamon Rolls & Bagels Lunch: Soup, Salad & Sandwiches Drinks: Coffee, Mocha, Latte, Cappuccino, Frappe & Fruit Smoothies

Monday-Thursday 11:30-2:30 & 4:30-9:30 Friday 11:30-10:30 Saturday 12:00-10:30 Sunday 11:30-9:30

44A Town Square Blairsville, GA 30512

130 Old Orchard Square, Ellijay, GA Next to the Ingles Supermarket

CabinCoffeeCompany.com Like us on FB / CabinCoffeeBlairsville

706. 745. 0073

YOUR RESTAURANT AD HERE COL. POOLE’S Georgia Bar-B-Q

Call Us Today!

706.492.5070 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

PO Box 727 East Ellijay, GA 30539 706. 635. 4100 Oscar and Edna Poole Darvin Poole

www.poolesbarbq.com APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Cabin Coffee Co., Blairsville, GA Welcome to Cabin Coffee where their mission is to create a warm and inviting environment, while serving quality products.

The folks at Cabin Coffee embrace their “Just Be Happy and Have Fun” tagline, and want you to feel like you’ve been welcomed into their home to relax with your favorite beverage and a tasty treat. Serving fresh roasted coffee and specialty drinks, you can enjoy your favorite morning cup on the couch by the fireplace or grab your latte for the road. They source premium Arabica coffee beans from various countries and roast them on site, ensuring maximum freshness and variety to meet your tastes. This local favorite also serves breakfast, lunch, and anytime snack items, in addition to hot and cold specialty drinks.

One item unique to Cabin Coffee is their white coffee, which is prepared espresso style and included in several specialty drinks, such as the very popular Tumbleweed which pairs a white coffee latte with caramel, whipped cream and salted caramel on top.

Cabin Coffee of Blairsville was opened in 2014 by Wayne and Judy Jolley, who had a vision for creating a place for community on picturesque Blairsville’s downtown square. Since that time, they have been joined by partners Greg and Stephanie Conner, and have grown the café to be a central meeting place for the community and visitors alike.

Located on the Square in Historic Downtown Blairsville, Cabin Coffee is open Monday through Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., as well as select evenings and Sundays during local downtown events. They can accommodate special dietary needs with alternative milk and gluten-free selections. If you have a large group, call ahead and see if the Meeting Room is available.

And…. Just Be Happy and Have Fun at Cabin Coffee! ACLM Fresh Roasted Coffee Everyday in a Warm Inviting Environment.

Beverages – Brewed Coffee, Latte, Mocha, Cappuccino, Frappes, Fruit Smoothies, Premium Teas Breakfast – Breakfast Sandwiches, Pastries, Bagels, and their famous Cinnamon Rolls Lunch – Sandwiches, Soup and Salads Visit Cabin Coffee Co. 44A Town Square Blairsville, GA 30512 706-745-0073 • Free Wi-Fi • Cabincoffeecompany.com Open Monday - Saturday 7:00 am to 4:30 pm WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

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SAVING OUR CLIENTS MONEY SINCE 2010

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Like many good things in life, NORTH GEORGIA FURNITURE & HOME DECOR is a little hard to find,

but certainly worth the effort!

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Located 2 miles from Dairy Queen on Highway 282 in Ellijay

Call 706. 635. 4202 or Visit ngfh.net

Mention This Ad and Receive a

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706. 253. 7737

Cell: 770. 893. 9177 Fax: 706. 253. 7739 111 Confederate Ave. Jasper, GA 30143 Scott Fowler, Owner scott@psu24-7.com

www.psu24-7.com

FILL A PINT. FILL A GROWLER. FILL YOUR MIND.

Around Back at Rocky’s Place

The Ultimate Folk Art Gallery in the South!

Best Selection by “Cornbread” in the Universe!

“Guinea Hen” by Cornbread Saturday 11-5 Sunday 1-5 Or by Appointment

THE AREA’S HIPPEST CRAFT BEER BREWERY - COME DRINK WITH THE LOCALS

3631 Highway 53 E at Etowah River Road Dawsonville, GA 30543

MON: 2 - 8PM | THURS, FRI, SAT: 12 - 8PM | SUN: 12 - 6PM

706.431.7141

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CMYK / .ai

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160 OCOEE STREET, COPPERHILL, TN 37317

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

CMYK / .ai

AC LIVING STYLE & DESIGN

Is Your Home Retirement Ready?

Style & Design Editor Cindy Trimble Considers Aging in Place and How we Can Begin to Prepare Rounded corners on counter tops, and an open living plan help prevent injuries.

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The Baby Boomers are at it again! With the bulk of them hitting retirement age, they find themselves healthy and in good shape. Their prospects are that they will live longer than their parents. And they will live on a fixed retirement income longer than any previous generation. We have spent years working hard for what we have and are mostly comfortable in our own homes.

Surveys of all sorts show that most seniors would prefer to spend their golden years in their own home. Retirement homes and communities are great but are less personal and very expensive.

According to a survey AARP conducted in 2014, 87 percent of adults over the age of 65 want to age in place, we want to stay in our own home that is comfortable and familiar.

Our design studio has focused on this trend and requirements needed for a supportive and well-designed retirement home for the past 15 years. With the large number of retirees moving into the southern Appalachians, we wanted to get familiar with all aspects of how to help our clients prepare. There is so much that retirees can do to make sure that their homes are ready to support them as they age. Even though you may be very healthy now with no limitations, that day may come where you need a ramp (zero step entry) or a shower with no curb. If you are building from scratch, regardless of your age, we are now recommending including some of these features in the event someone in your family becomes disabled in some way.

The Fallout of Falls: Per the CDC, the number one reason a person’s life begins to deteriorate, regardless of where they are living is a serious fall. Older people do not heal as well and as fast as younger. Preventing falls is the most critical action you can do. The number one place people slip is the bathroom. Make bathrooms safe! Install plenty of stabile elements to grab when someone. Today, towel bars and Toilet Paper holders are made to perform like grab bars. Make sure all tile meets the strictest of slip FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

Easy to reach cabinets and drawers are a must.

resistance tests in a wet condition. Do not use tile on a shower floor that is larger than 2” X 2”.

Every grout joint is a speed bump when slipping!

In kitchens, (the 2nd most dangerous room) avoid sharp corners on countertops – curved edges and corners are best when falling. Same as bathrooms, avoid any slippery floors. In fact, installing softer floors are better than hard tile.

Cushioned vinyl or wood is best.

Doors and Pathways: It is best to make all doors and hallways at least 36” wide. Avoid thresholds whenever possible. Doors to the outside should be step free, including front doors and doors to decks and patios. There are drains and weather protection tricks you can use to keep water from coming in while having a zero step.

Kitchen Design: First, retrain your brain to reverse everything you knew about kitchen storage. Change all lower cabinets to drawers or pull out inserts rather than cabinets with shelves. You want to install all heavy items (plates, glassware, APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

casseroles, etc.) below the countertop to make it easy for you to get to. Placing heavy items overhead is dangerous – they will fall out on someone and hurt them.

Same with the placement of microwaves, place them below your countertop or on a countertop in your pantry. Do not place them over a stove or in the upper cabinets. This placement has caused many elderly to get burned when they pull something out and it falls on them.

Colors: The specific hue of colors is not important. What is important is that there is a visible / dramatic contrast or change in color at all level changes (ie: steps or stairs). The aging eye can see a contrast in the lightness or darkness of a color.

Lighting: As we age, the more light we need to have to see! Our eyes fill with debris, floaters, cataracts, etc. making clear vision more challenging. Identify all task areas and make sure they have ample lighting for doing your work, whether reading, cooking or doing a hobby.

TV Placement: The trend for the past 10 years has been to place the TV over the mantle.

This is coming back to haunt us. What happens is that the height of the TV is so high that we angle our necks in a way that is creating more work for the local chiropractors! Don’t do it if you can avoid this. Ideally, TV’s should be placed where you head and neck are straight when seated – about 36”of the floor. ACLM Cindy Trimble, ASID is owner of StudioTrimble, Inc. based in Blue Ridge. She is NCIDQ certified and a Georgia Registered Interior Designer.

Cindy Trimble,StudioTrimble, Inc. 706-946-2030 www.studiotrimble.com Photos by Tom Harper WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

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Annual

St.PETrick’s Day Parade &

From sugary sweets to romantic momentos, take the stress out of Valentine’s shopping with these unique finds.

LAYER YOUR NECKLACES

STORE HOURS: MONDAY THRU SATURDAY 10:00 AM TO 6:00 PM

Barking Lot Party

SEMI-PRECIOUS STONES

DAISY BOUTIQUE 35 SOUTH MAIN ST. JASPER, GA 30143 (706) 253-6996 DAISYBOUTIQUE.COM

Saturday March 14th • 10am Historic Downtown Ellijay Vendors • Contests • Live Music Contest Registration at City Hall

Info: 706. 635. 7400

LAKE CHATUGE GET OUTDOORS! EXPO APRIL 18, 2020 10AM TO 5PM Fishing & Boats Hunting Hiking Boating Camping & RVs How To Demos Food & More

Towns County Recreation & Conference Center 150 Foster Park Road Young Harris, GA 30582 Admission: Adults & Over 14 – $5

APRIL MAY 2020 ISSUE

SPRING & SUMMER FESTIVALS PREVIEW

ADVERTISING DEADLINE

MARCH 1ST

REACH 30,000 READERS For info contact the Lake Chatuge Chamber

For info, contact the Lake Chatuge Chamber 706.

896.

4966 Bit.ly/GetOutdoorsExpo Bit.ly/GetOutdoorsExpo

CALL TODAY! 706. 492. 5070 alice@blueridgemediagroup.com

706-896-4966

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

AC LIVING GARDEN & LANDSCAPE

Amazing Animal or Garden Pest?

Garden and Landscape Editor Steve Montgomery Gives Us His Recommendations on Living with Deer

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There is nothing like waking up on a very cool morning in the mountains, breathing in the fresh mountain air and enjoying the warm sun on your porch while drinking a cup of coffee. As you look over your property at all your favorite plants in the garden, you see one of the prettiest animals in the forest, a large buck stepping into the sunlight. You see this beautiful, majestic deer walking through your property with the sun glistening off his horns and you think “Wow this is awesome.” As you continue to watch him in your garden you notice that he starts eating some of your favorite shrubs. He even might start picking at that sentimental plant you brought with you from your garden when you moved here and then you begin to feel like this beautiful animal is more of a pest than something amazing. Luckily, there are things you can do to help keep the plants from becoming this beautiful creature’s breakfast.

For the existing plants that you have that are being damaged or even destroyed by the deer I recommend getting a fertilizer called Milorganite. It is made from heat-dried sewage sludge and because of this, the deer have a tendency to stay away from it and the smell. The smell is enough to fend off most critters, but not too much for you to notice it in your garden.

Milorganite can be found at most lawn and garden stores. It’s a natural fertilizer that is nonleaching and safe to use. Since it’s a slow release fertilizer it should last for 10 to 12 weeks. On the plus side, while keeping the deer and rabbits at bay, it also feeds your plants.

Another way to keep your landscaping from being eaten is to use plants that deer really just don’t like to eat.

One of the most common questions I get when visiting a customer and their property is, “What can I plant that the deer won’t eat?”

First let me say that there is no such thing as absolute deer proof as they will eat almost any-

thing if they are hungry enough. Fortunately, there are usually enough food sources for them to eat, things like acorns, that will keep them from eating your favorite plants. There are also plants they don’t particularly care for and rarely “browse.” Here is a list of most of my favorites that normally these pesky critters won’t indulge in. Remember that there are no guarantees.

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Trees: Bald Cypress, Cherry Laurel, Carolina Silverbell, Crape Myrtle, Deodar Cedar, Dawn Redwood, Ginko, Golden Raintree, Kousa Dogwood, Pine, Poplar, Red Maple, Southern Magnolia, Saucer Magnolia, Sweetgum, Spruce, Smoke tree, and Sugar Maple.

Shrubs: Boxwood, Butterfly bush, Bottlebrush Buckeye, Daphne, Deutzia, Gardenia, Glossy Abelia, Heather, most Hollies, Juniper, Lantana (perennial), Leucothoe, Mountain Laurel, Pieris, Plum Yew, Quince, Rugosa rose, Scotch Broom, Spirea, Dwarf spruce, St. John’s Wort, Viburnum, Vitex, Wisteria, Witch Hazel, and Weigela.

Bulbs and Herbaceous Plants: Allium, Anise, Astilbe, Artemesia, Aster, Autumn Crocus (not regular Crocus), Beebalm, Bluebells, Candytuft, Columbine, Daffodil, Dahlia, Delphinium, Dianthus, Elephant Ears, Foamflower, most Ferns, Foxglove, Grape Hyacinth, Hellebore, Iris, Lavender, Lobelia, Lungwort, Liatris, Lamb’s Ear, Marigold, Narcissus, Oxalis, Petunia, Purple coneflower, perennial Sunflower, Peony, Rose Campion, Rosemary, Russian Sage, Snapdragon, Toad Lilly, Veronica, and Yarrow.

Grasses: Fountain Grass, Feather Reed, Lemon grass, North Sea Oats, Pink Muhly Grass, Sedge, and Sweet flag.

Vines and Ground Covers: Ajuga, Confederate Jasmine, Creeping Raspberry, Creeping Lantana, Dwarf Mondo Grass, Junipers, Liriope, Pachysandra, Plumbago, Prostrate Rosemary, Sweet Woodruff, and Thyme.

Annuals: Ageratum, Alyssum, Baby’s Breath, Basil, Dusty Miller, Lantana, Marigold, Parsley, Periwinkle, Salvia, Scarlett Sage, Stock, Sweet Pea, and Verbena.

As you can see there are quite a few options that the deer would prefer not to eat and this will let you enjoy the plants without the pressure of the deer taking them out or damaging them.

Please keep in mind the sun vs. the shade on your selections, as that’s a very important factor.

Some plants thrive in the sun and some in the shade. Additionally, I recommend that you seriously consider using native plants, appropriate to your planting zone, as they are much less susceptible to deer eating them.

I hope this helps you to create a garden that you will be able to enjoy for many years. If you need advice or any kind of assistance let me know, have fun! ACLM Steve Montgomery is the owner of Steve Montgomery and Company based in Roswell, GA since 1985. He is re-locating to this area and will be offering design and consulting services in the greater Blue Ridge area. Steve has extensive knowledge in the areas of landscape, hardscape, construction of outdoor structures, water features and pools. He brings with him incredible creativity in designing awesome outdoor spaces. You can check out some of his work at his website www.smac.biz.

Steve Montgomery and Company.

Phone: 404-966-8283 or 770-317-1484 Email: Steve@smac.biz Website: www.smac.biz.

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Life is Always Better on the

PORCH Porch Life 365 Custom

Enclosures truly believes that what makes your house a home, is the porch. It is the heart and soul of your home.

WORDS : PORCH LIFE 365 CUSTOM ENCLOSURES PHOTOS: SQUARE FRAME MEDIA JUSTIN RUSH, RUSH PHOTOGRAPHY

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

A three season porch enclosure from Porch Life 365 creates an outdoor space that can be enjoyed anytime of year. A fantastic solution to the mess and hassle of pollen season.

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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Vertical four track units open to allow 75% ventilation when open, but keep pollen and weather out when closed so you can enjoy your porch all year long.

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

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While everyone has their own special reason for retreating into our beautiful North Georgia Mountains, whether it’s the kindness of the people, the relaxed pace of life or the charm of a quaint downtown square… the one thing we all share is an affinity for the awe-inspiring scenery that envelopes us. From the breathtaking views, the fresh mountain air, the enchanting soundtrack of rushing rivers, the peace and serenity of the lakes… we all cherish our beautiful mountain home because of the special connection it offers with nature.

And the folks at Porch Life 365 Custom Enclosures understand that the best way to embrace those precious surroundings is from a comfy rocker on your own porch!

Porch Life 365 Custom Enclosures truly believes that what makes your house a home, is the porch. It is the heart and soul of your home. This is where we start our day, watching the first few rays of sunshine peeking over the mountains, with the smell of a fresh brew wafting through the air. This is where we can spend countless hours, lost in a captivating novel or just drifting off with our furry pal at our side. This is where we make a symphony of laughter and cherished memories with our children and grandchildren. Here we watch the dazzling display of nature’s tapestry of color change with each passing season. We enjoy special moments with our loved ones here. We spend time peacefully with our own thoughts. We FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

Better Vue screen options allow you to enjoy your porch without the discomfort of pesky insects, while maintaining your beautiful views. may even end the day on our porch, sipping a glass of wine from one of the many local wineries in the area.

With this belief in mind, the goal at Porch Life 365 is to help each and every one of their clients get the most enjoyment and use out of their porches. The first thing they do when they meet with a new client is to endeavor to understand clearly how he or she wants to use their porch areas. Is it to enjoy the views? Is it to increase the usable space in the home?

Is it for entertaining guests or primarily for personal use? Will the porch be used year-round or seasonally? Once they have a clear idea of their client’s vision in mind, they make suggestions for a variety of products and improvements that can help their clients turn their porches into their favorite room of the house.

Porch Life 365 offers a variety of specialty products designed to increase the comfort and enjoyment of ‘porch sitting.’ Their custom screen enclosures are enhanced by multiple options of screen choices. Better Vue Screens minimize the obstruction of those beautiful mountain views. Solar screens assist in blocking the heat and glare on porches that suffer from

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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The Largest Yarn Shop in north Georgia!

Exquisite Specialty Yarns of all Fiber Types in Basics to Novelty PLUS

Books • Patterns • Needles Notions • Purse Handles

Knit & Crochet Classes for Beginners to Advanced

JOIN US ON

Saturday April 28th 12:00 - 3:00 Willow Creek Falls and Vineyard

706.698.KNIT Tues, Wed & Fri 10-5 • Thurs 10-7 • Sat 10-4

www.stringsandstitches.com stringsandstitches@ellijay.com 449 Industrial Blvd. Suite 165 Spring Plaza • Ellijay, GA 30540

Tickets $30 per person.

Kids under 12 are Free!

Annual St. Patricks Day Parade

Downtown Blue Ridge March 14th • 10am

Follow Alice into Wonderland, a delightful but peculiar place, occupied by a Cheshire Cat, White Rabbit, Mad Hatter, March Hare, and the Queen of Hearts!

ALICE IN WONDERLAND January 24th - February 9th Thursday - Saturday 7:30 PM Sundays at 2 PM

Desperate for a fun vacation, these four geriatric grandparents try to sneak out of the home and go on the Sassy Seniors Cruise. True comedy ensues!

FOUR OLD BROADS

March 5th - March 22nd Thursday - Saturday 7:30 PM Sundays at 2 PM

JOE GRANDSEN JAZZ & CABARET STAGE SEATING February 22th 7:30 PM RANDALL BRAMBLETT ROCK & BLUES March 28th 7:30 PM

SEASON TICKETS

A GREAT VALENTINE’S GIFT! Enjoy brews, food and shopping in Downtown Blue Ridge after!

BlueRidgeMountainTrailRides.com 16

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Go Green! Dress Festive!

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

BOX OFFICE: 706. 632. 9191

BUY ONLINE @ WWW.BLUERIDGECOMMUNITYTHEATER.COM FIND US ON FB: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/BRCTGA

MAIN: 706. 632. 9223 2591 EAST 1ST STREET • BLUE RIDGE, GA FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

Above: Enjoy a glass of wine outside on Chateau Meichtry’s deck any time of year thanks to this three season enclosure featuring floor to ceiling side sliding vinyl units.

Right: Porch Life 365 prides themselves on being able to keep your large porch openings unobstructed by using specialty size screens. direct sun exposure. Specifically designed pet screens are for homeowners that are concerned with potential damage from pets and other animals. For a reliable line of defense against annoying and possibly dangerous insects, 20/20 No-See-Um Screens are a popular option.

Their screen installation team is the very best at what they do! They have been installing screen enclosures for over 30 years and their experience, expertise and craftsmanship show through on every porch project they undertake. They pride themselves on keeping porches feeling as wide open and unobstructed as possible. And there simply isn’t any porch they can’t screen.

Specializing in installing three season enclosures, Porch Life 365 uses quality products that combine a fixed screen attachment with moving and removable vinyl window style panels. This enables the porch to be enjoyed almost year-round. It also keeps the porch clean and completely usable during the dreaded pollen season.

It is always a great privilege to assist local business owners to raise the comfort level of their customers. Porch Life 365 accomplishes this by installing three season enclosures on their porches. Some of the establishments that we have been honored to work with are: Wrapsody in FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

Blue, in Blue Ridge Georgia; Chateau Meichtry Winery in Ellijay, Georgia; Toccoa Riverside Restaurant on Aska Rd in Blue Ridge, Georgia; and we look forward to assisting very soon, Jolly Rogers Seafood Restaurant in Blue Ridge, Georgia; as well as others in the area.

We invite you to visit these hometown businesses and experience what Porch Life 365 did to enhance their already welcoming porches!

This will enable you to get a better idea of what a Porch Life 365 Custom Enclosure could do for your special porch.

Porch Life 365 is also ready to assist you with porch railings, under decking, and many other porch projects as well!

Porch Life 365 is a local, family owned and operated business. Give them a call and let their family help your family turn your porch into your custom retreat. Because after all - life is always better on the porch. ACLM Porch Life 365 Custom Enclosures located in Ellijay, Ga, specializing in Eze breeze, Custom Screen Rooms and Flooring for your north Georgia home.

Phone: 706.889.8343 Website: www.porchlife365.com FB: www.facebook.com/PorchLife365

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Cozy Cold Weather Soups

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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AC LIVING RECIPES

a pot of homemade soup bubbling away on the stove is the bear hug of comfort foods…creamy, hearty, and nourishing. grab a glass of wine, some rustic bread, and your favorite book, these cozy, cold-weather soups will lift your spirits and keep you warm all season long!

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Creamy Brussel Sprout and Bacon Soup

The secret to the best brussel sprout soup ~ spoiler alert ~ it’s bacon! A comforting meal for a chilly night ~ just add a simple salad, a hunk of whole grain bread, and a glass of wine. Love is definitely in the air.

Ingredients • 1 pound Brussels sprouts • olive oil for drizzling • salt and fresh cracked black pepper • 12 ounces bacon snipped or chopped into 1/2 inch dice • 2 large shallots about 1/2 cup chopped • 3 cups chicken stock • 1/2 cup cream or half and half •1 heaping cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese •1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese Instructions 1. Set oven to 375F 2. Wash and trim the stems from the sprouts.

Cut them in half, or in quarters if they are very large. Drizzle them with olive oil, and then sprinkle liberally with salt and pepper.

3. Roast the sprouts for about 20-30 minutes, just until they have softened and have taken on a little color. Stir them around on the pan a few times during cooking. Set aside.

4. Cook the bacon until crispy in a large soup pot. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain. Leave about 3 Tbsp of the bacon fat in the pan and add the shallots.

Saute them for about 5 minutes, until they are 20

softened, don’t let them brown.

5. Add the chicken stock and the sprouts to the pan, and bring up to a simmer. Cook gently for 5 minutes.

6. Working in batches, puree the soup. I used my food processor, but if you prefer a chunkier texture you could use an immersion blender.

Return the pureed soup to the pot.

7. Add the cream to the soup and reheat to a simmer. Taste to adjust the salt and pepper, and then, once the soup is nice and hot, remove from the heat and add the cheeses, slowly, and stir until it is completely melted.

8. Serve hot with a good helping of crisp bacon in the center.

Notes: This soup will thicken after refrigerating, so add more stock to thin it down when you reheat. Don’t be tempted to use frozen Brussels sprouts for this soup ~ they contain minimal flavor and you won’t be able to roast them.

Bacon, Shrimp and Corn Chowder

Crispy bacon, perfectly cooked shrimp and corn are the ultimate comfort foods in this creamy chowder!

Ingredients • 5 slices Hickory Smoked Wright Brand Bacon, cut into small pieces • 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined • 2 cups chopped yellow onion

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

• 1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme • Pinch crushed red pepper • 2–1/2 cups frozen corn kernels • 3 cups chicken stock • 1 cup half and half • Salt and pepper, to taste • Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish, if desired Instructions 1. In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, fry the bacon pieces until crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels. Drain off fat from pot, leaving 1 tablespoon.

2. Add shrimp to the pot and cook until pink (about 3-4 minutes), stirring frequently. Remove shrimp with a slotted spoon and add to the plate with the bacon. Leave juices in pot.

3. Add onions and garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes, or until onions are soft and translucent.

4. Add paprika, crushed red pepper, thyme, salt and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently for 2 minutes.

5. Add corn, chicken stock and half and half.

Stir to combine. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes.

6. Using an immersion blender, blend about half of the soup until creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, blend 2 cups of soup at a time in a blender and pulse until creamy. Return to pot and stir well.

7. Serve with shrimp and sprinkle with bacon pieces.

8. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs.

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Broccoli Parmesan Chicken Soup

This Broccoli Parmesan Chicken Soup is a quick cooking and vibrant soup that the whole family will love. It’s a cozy (and healthy!) one pot meal ready in 30 minutes.

Ingredients • 2 heads of broccoli, or broccoli crowns • 2 Tbsp olive oil • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 1 medium yellow onion, diced • 1/2 tsp salt • 1/2 tsp fresh cracked black pepper • 32 ounce carton of chicken broth • 3 large handfuls of baby spinach • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, you could substitute sharp white cheddar • juice of 1/2 lemon • 1/2 cup cream • 1 cooked chicken breast, I used a rotisserie chicken shredded Instructions 1. Set a pot of water to boil on the stove for blanching the broccoli. Meanwhile cut the broccoli into small florets, and thinly slice the tender, upper stems.

2. Heat the oil in a large soup pot and sauté the stems, onion and garlic for about 8 minutes, stirring often.

3. Plunge the florets into the pot of boiling water for about 30-45 seconds, then immediately drain and rinse briefly with cold water before proceeding with the recipe. I love FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

how it sets the bright green of the broccoli.

4. Add the chicken broth to the soup pot, and bring up to a simmer. Add the broccoli florets (reserving about 2 cups for garnish) along with the spinach. Bring the soup back to a boil, then gently simmer for 5-10 minutes. Stir in the cheese and lemon juice.

5. Puree the soup, in batches, in a food processor. You can also use an immersion blender, but it will take longer.

6. Return the soup to the pot, add the cream, and bring up to a simmer, then taste to adjust the salt or add extra cheese if you like.

7. Ladle the soup into bowls garnished with the reserved broccoli florets and shredded chicken.

Give each bowl a shower or Parmesan cheese and fresh cracked black pepper and dig in.

Finnish Salmon Soup – Lohikeitto

This simple salmon and potato soup is the ultimate 30 minute spring meal, with a light cream broth, melt-in-your-mouth chunks of salmon, and tons of fresh dill!

Ingredients • 1 lb salmon filet, skinned and cut into largish chunks, reserve the skin • 1/2 stick, 4 tablespoons, unsalted butter • 1 large leek, trimmed, sliced, and well rinsed • 5 cups (1,25l) fish stock (can be substituted with water) • 1 lb russet potatoes, peeled and diced • 1 large carrot, sliced APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

• 1 cup (10g) fresh dill for garnish, finely chopped, divided • 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream • 1/4 tsp allspice • salt and pepper to taste Instructions 1. Melt the butter in a soup pot and saute the leeks for 10 minutes, or until nice and soft.

2. While the leeks are cooking, put 5 cups of water and the reserved fish skin in a saucepan and bring to a boil, turn down the heat and simmer gently for 10 minutes.

3. Strain the broth and add to the pan with the leeks, along with the potatoes, carrots, and half of the fresh dill. Cook for another 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are just tender.

4. Add the salmon chunks to the soup along with the cream and allspice, and gently simmer on low heat until cooked through, just a few minutes. Add the remaining dill, and salt and pepper to taste.

5. This soup makes great leftovers, too, the flavors will mature and get even better!

Notes: • If you can get your hands on great fish stock, by all means use it! Clam broth can also be used. I’ve sometimes even used clam juice as a base for fish soup.

• Serve this soup with some rustic artisan style bread ~ rye or pumpernickel would be amazing!

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On Winter Nights, Nothing Beats a Hot Toddy for Cozy, ColdWeather comfort.

The Tequila Hot Toddy

Amazingly, tequila takes quite well to the toddy form. Definitely use a slightly aged tequila here, smoother and with a bit more weight; it’ll be noted on the label as a reposado.

Believed to have been invented in Scotland sometime in the eighteenth century, the hot toddy is a popular cocktail during the cold months.

The hot toddy is alternately called a hot whiskey (in Ireland), and you may also know it’s rum-based relative, grog.

Typically served hot in a mug, the traditional hot toddy formula is simple: A base liquor (usually whiskey), honey, lemon and tea or hot water. Here are two variations to warm those winter nights.

The Basic Bourbon Hot Toddy • 1 teaspoon honey • 5 whole cloves • 1 cinnamon stick • 1 whole star anise • 1 1/2 ounces bourbon • 1/2 cup boiling water • Slice of lemon

In a heat-safe glass, stir together 2 ounces of reposado tequila (we’re fans of Patrón Roca), 1/2 an ounce of agave syrup (equal parts agave dissolved in hot water), and a dash of Angostura bitters. Pour 1 ounce of hot water over the top. Squeeze a lime wedge over the top, and garnish with a big cinnamon stick.

The Rum Hot Toddy

Good aged rum, with its rich, complex sweetness, takes particularly well to heat.

In a saucepan, gently heat 2 ounces of aged rum, 1/2 ounce of raw sugar simple syrup (Sugar in the Raw or similar, dissolved in an equal part hot water), 1 dash of Angostura bitters, and a 1/4 ounce of water. Slowly heat until just warmed through. Place a lemon wheel in a heat-safe glass and pour the warm cocktail over the top.

PATRICK’S FIDDLE

BY BETTY KOSSICK

All his young years Patrick watched fiddlers Pluck their strings with the loveliest hearin,’ He wanted so much to make such music That stirred up his listeners to dancin.’

Yes, he wanted much to make such music To watch his momma dance like a youngun,’ So his daddy bought him a new fiddle And smiled, as his son started fiddlin.’

The years passed and Patrick grew to a man And played the music of the violin, Placed under his chin at the concert halls Yet his heart never forgot the fiddlin.’

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When he’d return home he’d always make sure To fiddle for old time socializin,’ With banjos, psalteries and dulcimers, And the spoons, and momma’s washboard for fun.

No matter how far he traveled abroad To play for great pay with his violin, It was the call of the valleys and hills That wooed him back to his joy of fiddlin’ On the same fine fiddle his pa bought him Back when he was a young lad of age ten.

And on another he plays the classics Yet it’s folk-style when he does the fiddlin.’

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

Mediterranean Red Lentil Soup

Super easy, healthy, and incredibly delicious, this cozy red lentil soup is seasoned with Mediterranean spices and a touch of harissa for some kick! This naturally vegan and gluten-free soup is perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 1 medium onion, diced • 4 garlic cloves, minced • 1 tablespoon ground cumin • 1 teaspoon ground coriander • 1 1/2 cups dried red lentils • 5 cups vegetable broth • 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes • 2 tablespoons lemon juice, or to taste • Harissa paste, to taste (optional) • Fresh chopped cilantro or parsley, for serving Instructions 1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

2. Add the garlic, cumin and coriander, and sauté for another minute, until the garlic becomes very fragrant.

3. Stir in the lentils, broth and tomatoes.

4. Bring the liquid to a boil, lower the heat to a simmer, and allow to continue simmering, uncovered, until lentils are soft, about 20 minutes. Thin the soup with some water if it FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

becomes too thick while simmering.

5. Stir in the lemon juice and harissa (if using).

Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Ladle into bowls and top with parsley and/ or cilantro.

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Cheesy, pasta filled soup made with Italian sausage; is the perfect pairing for an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients • 16 ounces mild Italian sausage • 1/2 large yellow onion diced • 2 tablespoons minced garlic • 1 jar marinara sauce • 1/2 lb penne pasta • 2 cups chicken broth • 3 cups half and half, heavy cream or whole milk • 29 ounces whole tomatoes • 1 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes • 1 tablespoons Italian seasoning • 3 cups shredded Gambilin Mozzerella cheese • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese • 4 tablespoons butter Instructions 1. In a large pot fill with 6 cups of water and cook pasta according to package directions.

Once pasta is completely cooked, rinse with cold water and drain. Set pasta aside for later.

2. Using the same pot, heat 2 tablespoon olive oil. Once heated add sausage, onion and APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

garlic; cook until sausage is completely cooked through.

3. Drain grease from sausage and set sausage aside.

4. Place the same pot over medium-high heat and add chicken broth, whole tomatoes squeezing the whole tomatoes with your hand so that it breaks them up as you are pouring them in the pan, diced tomatoes, Barilla marinara sauce, Italian seasoning and heavy cream. Bring to a slow boil, stirring constantly, reduce heat to medium and simmer for 5 minutes.

5. Add in sausage mixture, butter, 2 cups shredded Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes.

Stir every few minutes so that it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.

6. Remove from heat. Stir in remaining shredded Mozzarella cheese.

Stir in the pasta, top the soup with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper and Italian seasoning and serve immediately.

Credits:: theviewfromgreatisland.com theblondcook.com theviewfromgreatisland.com cookingtheglobe.com connoisseurusveg.com bowlofdelicious.com

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STRINGS & STITCHES YARN SHOPPE AND THE NORTH GEORGIA KNITTING GUILD ARE PROUD TO SPONSOR

The Third Annual

Georgia Mountain Needle Arts Festival April 24–26, 2020 Gilmer County Civic Center, Ellijay, GA

Vendors, Classes, Indoor and Outdoor Booths, Plus Food Trucks & Daily Door Prizes!!

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FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

Following the huge success of last two years, Needle Arts Festival sponsors are proud to announce an even bigger and better Festival for 2020. Vendors, classes, and door prizes are just some of what you’ll find at this fabulous event in the north Georgia mountains.

S

Strings & Stitches Yarn Shoppe and the North Georgia Knitting Guild are proud to sponsor the Third Annual Georgia Mountain Needle Arts Festival. This event will take place in Ellijay at the Gilmer County Civic Center, April 24th – 26th. An absolute treat for knit, crochet, weaving, rug hooking enthusiasts and other crafters. Attendees of this event will gain access to a variety of vendors and educational resources. Needle artists will enjoy shopping for yarn, beaded projects, hand dyed materials, felted rug supplies, wood products and so much more.

Through partnership with the North Georgia Knitting Guild, guests will also have the opportunity to advance their skills through a variety of educational courses. A list of classes is available on the website at georgiamountainneedleartsfestival.com and guests are urged to sign up now to take advantage of the opportunity to grow their skills.

This year’s special teaching guest will be Cornelia Tuttle Hamilton, designer and teacher extraordinaire. Cornelia has designed for vendors like Noro, Universal, and has owned a yarn shop in Europe. She will be teaching some of her special knitting techniques in classes on Friday, and Sunday.

Participants of the Festival will absolutely love sharing their craft with others and experiencing

the connection between specialty stores and the needle artists they serve. With North Georgia’s ample space, the festival has quickly expanded to include outdoor booths and food trucks.

Vendors will be traveling from all over Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Mississippi for the event, which is estimated to welcome as many as two thousand guests.

The backdrop of north Georgia makes this festival the ideal weekend getaway for crafting and knitting groups, as there are numerous hotel and cabin rental opportunities. Along with the festival, visitors will have the chance to experience all that the Ellijay community has to offer, including hiking, fishing, camping and mountain biking! You and your traveling companions are sure to enjoy Ellijay’s lovely wine vineyards and countless other attractions while breathing in the Spring aroma of the north Georgia mountains.

This festival is sure to be a great way for craft and fiber art enthusiasts to learn new skills, access a variety of materials, be inspired by north Georgia’s beauty and make new friends along the way! Bring your craft groups, knitting buddies and entire family to make this an unforgettable weekend retreat. So let all your crafty friends know about this event and start now to plan your “girls weekend” or family trip to Ellijay, GA the 4th weekend of April 2020.

See y’all there! ACLM

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For more information: The Third Annual Georgia Mountain Needle Arts Festival The Gilmer County Civic Center 1561 South Main St. Ellijay, GA 30540 Hours: Friday & Saturday: 10am- 5pm Sunday: 10am to 4pm.

There is a cash only admission fee of $5. Vendors will accept payments of checks, cash and credit.

Parking is free.

For more information, including lists of sponsors, vendors, educational courses and local hotel and cabin rental options, please visit www. georgiamountainneedleartsfestival.com or find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ georgiamountainneedleartsfestival.com.

For vendor opportunities available contact Karen and Janice Moss at 706-698-5648 or StringsandStitches@ellijay.com.

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INSIDE Welcome to our Calendar!

While every attempt has been made to provide accurate event listings, we urge you to confirm the information provided before making travel plans. With that said, come and see all that north Georgia and the southern Appalachians has to offer!

ARTS First Fridays Murphy Art Walk Murphy, NC. Stroll through historic downtown Murphy for an exquisite visual, culinary, and performing arts experience. Presented by The Valley River Arts Guild 5-8 pm. Visit http://visitcherokeecountync. com/ or call 828-557-0602 Thursday Mornings Plein Air Painters of Hiawassee Contact Joyce Clair (clairjoy@ hotmail.com ) to get on the email notification list. Joyce sends out an email every Wednesday with info on where to meet and whether or not plein air is cancelled due to weather. There is no fee as this is not a class. Bring your own art supplies, chair, water, and etc. All media and skill levels. www.artworksgalleryga.com Thru 2/22 Georgia Clay Council Blue Ridge, GA. Clay artists from the Georgia Clay Council hosts an exciting exhibit.

Multiple artists will be represented with various styles and techniques all within the universally loved medium of clay. For info visit www. blueridgearts.net, Email: BlueRidgeArts@gmail.com, Phone: 706-632-2144 Thru 3/28 Artist in Residence 1st Qtr – Linda Daughtry Blue Ridge, GA. For info visit www.blueridgearts.net, Email: BlueRidgeArts@gmail.com, Phone: 706-632-2144

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2/22 Say it Loud & Clear– Poetry Out Loud- North Georgia Regional Competition Ellijay, GA. Come support our regional students as they compete in Poetry Out Loud Regional Competition. Free!

1pm – 3pm. George Link, Jr. Gilmer Arts Playhouse, 135 Dalton St., Ellijay, GA. Contact: 706.635.5605 or gilmerarts. com 2/22 thru 3/25 Annual Spring Juried Art Exhibition Ellijay, GA. Opening reception Sat, Feb 22 – 5 – 7 pm.

Gilmer Arts Gallery 207 Dalton St., Ellijay, GA 30540. Open Tu-F 10a 5p, Sat 12-5p. Contact: 706.635.5605 or gilmerarts. com 2/28 This Is Love Blue Ridge, GA. A special opening night for the Blue Ridge Film Festival. Having swept the international film festival circuit, winning the Spirit Award at Raindance in London and Best International Documentary in Rome, THIS IS LOVE continues to break film festival records and announces its upcoming Georgia Premiere in Blue Ridge,with accompanying live concert. For info and tickets visit: www.blueridgefilmfestival.com.

2/28 thru 3/1 Blue Ridge Film Fest Blue Ridge, GA. The Blue Ridge Film Fest is all about community. Films will be shown in 2 locations: Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Center and Blue Ridge Community Theater. Film makers events and workshops: Comfort Inn. Awards: individual awards for Best Feature, Best Doc, and Best Short, as well as the Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals Audience Award and the Grand Jury Prize for best overall film. The Grand Jury Prize winner will receive $500 cash. Fri: 2pm – 8pm.

Sat: Noon- 8pm. Sun: Noon – 5:45pm. Local films are FREE for Blue Ridge locals and Festival badge holders.

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NORTH GEORGIA'S GUIDE TO AREA

ARTS | DINING & DANCE | EVENTS & SHOWS | MUSIC | THEATER

Presented by Barnstorm Media. For info and tickets visit: www.blueridgefilmfestival.com.

pm, 790 Block of East Main St & Downtown City Park. Info: 706-946-2030 or 706-2582432

4/3 thru 6/6 Appalachian Perspectives Crossroads Blue Ridge, GA. Celebrate our local heritage with this unique exhibit focused on artwork representing rural Fannin County, the City of Blue Ridge and surrounding counties. This exciting opportunity is in conjunction with the Smithsonian’s Crossroads: Change in Rural America Exhibit. Opening reception on April 3rd from 5-7pm. For info visit www.blueridgearts.net, Email: BlueRidgeArts@gmail. com, Phone: 706-632-2144

2/15 Seed Starter and Vegetative Cloning Workshop Jasper, GA. Learn about and gain experience with seed starting, root cuttings, and layering. Create new plants for your gardens - be prepared to play in the dirt! Using these methods will ensure the quality of plants in your landscape while protecting pollinators.

Presented by the Pickens County Master Gardeners.

1:30pm – 3pm. FREE! Pickens County Extension Office, 502 Veterans Memorial Blvd, Jasper, GA. To reserve your spot call: 706-253-8840

EVENTS Ongoing Wednesdays Cast-Off Pet Rescue Bingo Blairsville, GA. Would you like to save dogs and cats and win money? Join us every Wednesday for Bingo Night!

The Jackpot depends on YOU! If we at have least 60 players, jackpot will be $600.00.

At least 80 players, jackpot will be $800.00. At least 100 players, jackpot will be $1,000.00!!! Doors 6 pm and games 7pm. Blairsville Civic Center, 165 Wellborn Street, Blairsville, GA. 30512. For info: www.castoffpetrescue.org or call (706) 487-4539.

2/15 10th Annual Fire & Ice Chili Cook Off and Craft Beer Festival Blue Ridge, GA. Mark your calendars for live music, ice sculptures and amazing chili!

Buy a $10 Tasting Card to sample the competition and vote for the People’s Choice Award. Featuring Live Music and entertainment from the Blue Ridge Community Theater actors. An amazing display of individual and unique ice sculptures from the award winning, National Ice Carving Champion Rock on Ice including several ice carving demonstrations. CookOff will happen come rain, snow or shine so see you on Saturday. 11:00 am - 5:00

2/22 9th Annual Bringin’ the Blues to Blue Ridge Blue Ridge, GA. 9th Annual!

The event this year will be hosted at Mercier Orchards on February 22, 2020. Join the Mardi Gras Celebration for a Good Cause! Great Music, Dancing, Gourmet Cajun Buffet, and Auction!

Bring Your Dancin’ Shoes!

Live Music by the Fabulous Crossroads Band! Tickets will be available for sale at three locations in town: United Community Bank in Blue Ridge, South State Bank, Fannin County Chamber of Commerce. A music event benefiting Snack in a Backpack. Great Food, Fun, Auction, Door Prizes. Advance Tickets are $50 or $90 per couple. $60 at the door.

Includes Appetizers, Dinner, Dessert. Cash Bar. 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Mercier Orchards, 8660 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue RIdge, GA 30513. Info: Snack in a Backpack, Email: backpackfannin@gmail.com Phone: 706-851-8174 Benefiting Snack in a Backpack * Feeding Youth * Fighting Hunger 2/29 & 3/28 Cars and Coffee - Cruise-in - Automotive social event Ellijay, GA. North Georgia’s monthly meet of auto and

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

motorcycle enthusiasts. Held on the last Saturday of each month. Bring anything on wheels. Enjoy free coffee and donuts. 50/50 raffle and great conversation. 8am – 11pm.

Riverside Pavillion, Main St., Ellijay, GA 30540. Info: Www. EllijayMountainCruisers.com, Michael Johnson 843-8143774 or mhjfedex@aol.com 3/7 Cork and Canvas Blue Ridge, GA. Support the arts as you enjoy wine samplings from various area vintners. This year’s event includes a wine grab, silent auction, count the corks raffle, savory food and live entertainment. Ticket prices are $35, $30 for BRMAA members, and includes free samples of local area vintners, a commemorative BRMAA wine glass, and gourmet food selections and a complimentary glass of wine with each event ticket.

7pm – 9pm. All proceeds from this event benefit our youth arts programming including our Youth Art Summer Camp and our ongoing youth arts scholarships. For info visit www.blueridgearts.net, Email: BlueRidgeArts@gmail.com, Phone: 706-632-2144 3/14 7th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade Blue Ridge, GA. Enjoy brews, food and shopping in Downtown Blue Ridge after!

Go Green! Dress Festive: Wild hats & accessories, crazy outfits, even costumes.. The more green the better! You can walk in the parade, bring a float etc. all are welcome. Line up in front of the St. Anthony’s Catholic Church on East Main Street at 10:30 (Near the playground at the city park) No need to register, just show up and join in the fun. Rain or Shine. FREE! 11am.

3/14 St. PETrick’s Day Celebration Ellijay, GA. Come celebrate our pets in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. Don’t miss the annual St. Petrick’s Day Parade and Barking Lot party in downtown Ellijay. It’s a real community FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

AC LIVING CALENDAR event with a parade of pet walkers or floats , owners dressing to match the pets’ costumes, live music, games, and vendors. 10am – 3pm.

FREE! Presented by the Downtown Ellijay Business and Community Association & Friends of Gilmer Animal Shelter.

3/21 Empty Bowls Fundraiser Brasstown, NC. John C. Campbell Folk School.

Admission is $35 and includes a handmade bowl of your choice and a hearty meal of soup, bread, salad and dessert. Tickets go on sale February 25 at the Folk School’s Craft Shop, Cherokee County Chamber in Murphy and United Community Bank in Hayesville (cash or check only). All proceeds will go to the Clay County Food Bank and the Sharing Center Food Bank in Cherokee County.

5pm – 7pm. John C. Campbell Folk School, 4590 Brasstown Road Brasstown NC 28902 .

For info visit: http://folkschool. org or call 828-837-2775.

3/28 Feed Fannin’s Bowls of Hope Blue Ridge, GA. Take home a bowl made by a local potter for a good cause! Sample soups, breads and desserts from local restaurants.

12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Cost is $30 per person and can be purchased online through FeedFannin.com. To purchase tickets and learn more about the event, the contributing artists, and about Feed Fannin by visiting our website: FeedFannin.com or call 706.

946. 1001. Venue: Willow Creek Falls and Vineyard, 35 Trackside Lane, Blue Ridge, GA 30513.

4/3 & 4/4 Georgia Mountain Storytelling Festival Blairsville, GA. Experience an ancient tradition that lives on in modern times.

Dedicated to providing meaningful opportunities for an underserved audience to engage with the voices of Appalachia through hearing stories and attending workshops that will enable them to develop a cultural intelligence through the arts of listening and speaking.

For info and tickets visit www. gamountainstoryfest.org or contact Ruth Loper, Email: info@gamountainstoryfest. org, Phone: 828-389-2654.

Venue: Union County Schools FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

Fine Arts Center, 926 Panther Overlook, Blairsville, GA 30512.

4/3 & 4/4 23rd Annual Blue Ridge Writers Conference Blue Ridge, GA. Save the date for 2020! The Mission of the Blue Ridge Writers’ Conference is to educate, inform, and inspire writers. No matter the level of expertise, the Blue Ridge Writers’ Conference provides a venue for professional writers, editors and agents to provide feedback to the aspiring writer. For info, registration and schedule visit: www. blueridgewritersconference. com.

4/18 & 4/19 2nd Annual Blue Ridge Mountains Parade of Homes Blue Ridge, GA. Join some of the most highly skilled craftsman in Fannin County as they showcase their most unique and upscale home designs.

Take a self-guided tour through 20 different homes ranging from 1,600 to 9,000 square feet. Each one featuring the builder’s own distinct flavors and flare that is certain to appeal to all tastes and budgets. Proceeds benefit scholarship opportunities to high school students in our region so they can further their education in technical, vocational, and tradesmen/women fields. $25. 9am – 5pm. For tickets and info visit: www. blueridgeparadeofhomes.com or call 423. 241. 1512.

KIDS OF ALL AGES Ongoing Mountain Regional Library System Events Visit your local library for weekly events such as Story Time, Board Games, Crafting Club, Book Club & more! Visit mountainregionallibrary.org Ongoing Sequoyah Regional Library System Events Visit your local library for weekly events for kids of all ages such as Story Time, Kendama Club, Teen Japanese Culture, Youth Crochet Club, Dungeons & Dragons, Lego Club, Coloring Group, Book Club and more! Visit www. sequoyahregionallibrary.org

Wednesdays Family Story Time Ellijay, GA. Family story times are designed for families with children of all ages. Story time followed by a craft activity.

Children must be accompanied by a participating adult. Mornings: 10:30am – 11:30am. Afternoons: 4:00pm – 4:45pm. Free! Gilmer County Library, 268 Calvin Jackson Drive, Ellijay, GA 30540.

Registration is required: 706-635-4528. http://www. sequoyahregionallibrary.org/ 2/21 & 2/28 Explore Young Harris, GA. This show explores the story of humanity’s fascination with the stars—from ancient stargazers to the breakthrough discoveries of scientists like Johannes Kepler. Have you ever wondered how our modern spacecraft can navigate quickly and accurately to Earth orbit and beyond?

Kepler’s Laws are fundamental in physics and astronomy and central to modern spaceflight. The show demonstrates how those laws work using simple, easy-to-understand animations and clear explanations. $5. 8pm. No late seating is permitted. Tickets and info: O. Wayne Rollins Planetarium, 2/27 thru 3/26 Youth Art Month Blue Ridge, GA. Support our young and talented emerging artists during the nationally celebrated Youth Art Month.

These young artists from Fannin County area schools will display their artwork inside the Richard Low Evans Gallery highlighting this year’s theme “Take a Journey Through Art”. Celebratethe talent and hard work that goes into the visual arts and quality arts education in our area.

Opening Reception will be February 27, 3:30pm–5:30pm.

3/27 Magic Tree House: Space Mission Young Harris, GA. Travel to space with Jack and Annie in their Magic Tree House® as they answer questions left in a mysterious note. The brother-sister duo is taken on an adventurous journey of learning with special friends.

This exciting voyage will carry visitors to the planets and far out into the universe, where Jack and Annie nearly get... well, we don’t want to give it away! Appropriate for children and families. 7pm. O. Wayne

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Rollins Planetarium, Maxwell Center, Young Harris College, Young Harris, GA 30582.

Tickets & info: (800) 241-3754 or smorgan@yhc.edu 3/27 Skies Over Georgia Young Harris, GA. Featuring a live presenter and using the planetarium’s digital and optical star projectors to their fullest, this traditional star show allows audiences to explore the heavens as they appear above the mountains of North Georgia. Learn to identify planets and stars, take a guided tour of the constellations and hear some of their fascinating stories.

Appropriate for general audiences. 7pm. O. Wayne Rollins Planetarium, Maxwell Center, Young Harris College, Young Harris, GA 30582. Tickets & info: (800) 241-3754 or smorgan@yhc.edu

MUSIC Every Evening Bell Music from the Tower 7:00pm – 7:30pm. At the Historic Courthouse on the Square in Downtown Blairsville, GA. Free! Contact (706) 745-5493 or www. unioncountyhistory.org Weekends Treo Wine Bar & Restuarant Live Music on the Patio Blue Ridge, GA. Enjoy wine, full bar, tapas and patio dining.

Treo, 588 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Info: treobliueridge.com or 706.

946. 5200 Weekends Andrews Brewing Company Great music & craft beer.

6pm – 8pm. Andrews Brewing Company, 565 Aquone Road, Andrews, NC 28901.

For info: 828-321-2006 or www.andrewsbrewing.com Sundays Live Music at Rocco’s Rocco’s Pub, 47 Mountainside Village Parkway, Jasper, GA. Contact 706.253.1900 or visit http://roccosjasper.com Fridays Concert Series at the Old Courthouse Blairsville, GA. Free! 7pm. Old Historic Courthouse, 1 Town Square, Blairsville GA. For info: Union County Historical Society 706-745-5493 or www.unioncountyhistory.org/

3rd Friday Every Month Live Music Acoustic Blends Listen to a Variety of Quality Music Acts … or Join the Jam! Bring your own libations and munchies. 7 pm. Free & Public Invited. For info please contact Gilmer Arts 207 Dalton St. Ellijay, GA 30540.

706-635-5605. Visit www. gilmerarts.org Weekends LIve Music at Engelheim Vineyards Engelheim Vineyards 127 Lakeview Road, Ellijay, GA 30540. Call 706-635-WINE (9463) or visit www.engelheim.com.

Weekends Fannin Brewing Company Live Music in the Bier Garden Fannin Brewing: 3758 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. www.fanninbrewingcompany. com or 706.258.2762 Weekends Cartecay Vineyards Cartecay Vineyards, 5704 Clear Creek Road, Ellijay, GA 30535. Call 706. 698. 9463 (WINE) or visit www.cartecayvineyards.com Weekends Chateau Meichtry Vineyards Chateau Meichtry, 1862 Orchard Lane, Talking Rock, GA 30175.

Info: (706) 502-1608 or www.chateaumeichtry.com.

Weekends Live Music at Mystic Mountain Pizza Blue Ridge, GA. We’re excited to showcase some of the Groovy local live talent. Mystic Mountain Pizza, 4118 E First Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513.

Info: www.facebook.com/topstreet1, mysticmountainpizzaco.com or 706-946-0378.

Saturdays Live Music Hiawassee, GA. Country, bluegrass, oldies and gospel music. Complete family entertainment. Shows every Saturday night beginning at 7 p.m.

Come see us for great family entertainment. $8.00. 7pm – 10pm. Mountain Home Music Theatre, 2532 Hwy. 76 West, Hiawassee, GA 30546. Info: https://mthomemusictheatre. weebly.com or 706-896-3624.

2/8 Jukebox Saturday Night Waleska, GA. JUKEBOX SATURDAY NIGHT is a music

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review of the great Big Bands during the 1930’s, 40’s and 50’s. A fun filled event for all ages that captures the exciting sounds of great melodies and lyrics performed by an energetic group of instrumentalists and vocalists who will keep you moving in your seats, tapping your toes and clapping your hands. 7:30pm.

Flint Hall at the Falany Performing Arts Center.

Tickets and Info: Phone: 770.720.9167 Website: https://www.reinhardt.edu/ falany 2/14Johnny Jameson and the Empty Pints Ellijay, GA. One of the best Irish/Celtic band in Tennessee!

Complete with all the traditional favorites, new covers, jokes, stories and professional musicianship, they are your one stop to a great time! Brandishing folk instruments of all sizes they cover anything from the traditional “Red is the Rose” all the way to the rockin’ street songs of Flogging Molly! Acoustic guitars, mandolin, banjo, drums, bass and 4 strong male singers make up this rowdy bunch of “Irish tenors.” With lots of audience participation,

sing-a-long songs, stories for all ages and jokes throughout the show, the Empty Pints will have you singing, dancing and laughing the night away.$26.

7pm – 9:30pm. George Link, Jr. Gilmer Arts Playhouse, 135 Dalton St. Ellijay, GA. Tickets and info: 706.635.5626 or gilmerarts.com 2/15 A Night of Music and Dancing Ellijay, GA. This energetic 10 piece band with full horn section, will keep you up and dancing performing R&B, Jazz & Funk songs from the 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s along with today’s top 40 favorites.

Come experience a show you will not want to miss. $60/per couple. George Link, Jr. Gilmer Arts Playhouse, 135 Dalton St. Ellijay, GA. Tickets and info: 706.635.5626 or gilmerarts. com 2/21 Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Waleska, GA. The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra consistently affirms its position as one of America’s leading Orchestras by performing great music, presenting great

artists, educating, and engaging. The Orchestra is known for the excellence of its live performances, presentations, renowned choruses, and its impressive list of GRAMMY® Award-winning recordings. The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra serves as the cornerstone for artistic development and music education in the region. 8pm. Flint Hall at the Falany Performing Arts Center. Tickets and Info: Phone: 770.720.9167 Website: https://www.reinhardt.edu/ falany 2/22 Joe Gransden, Jazz Trumpetist and Vocalist Blue Ridge, GA. Renowned first for the hard bop approach of his trumpet, Gransden’s singing voice has been compared to that of Chet Baker and Frank Sinatra.

ASK ABOUT OUR SPECIAL CABARET STAGE SEATING WITH WINE AND CHOCOLATE! CABARET SEATING SOLD ONLY THROUGH THE THEATER’S BOX OFFICE. Blue Ridge Community Theater, 2591 East 1st St., Blue Ridge, GA 30513.

Tickets & Info: (706) 6329223. Visit: www.blueridgecommunitytheater.com

2/29 Tribute to Johnny Cash featuring James Garner Waleska, GA. James Garner’s Tribute to Johnny Cash celebrates the life and music of the Man in Black with strong conviction and stunning accuracy. Garner and his band faithfully recreate Cash’s biggest hits, such as Folsom Prison Blues, I Walk the Line and Ring of Fire, and incorporate historical accounts and personal anecdotes about America’s most beloved singing storyteller in this notto-be-missed musical event.

The show is a fun, classy and toe-tapping trip down memory lane honoring Johnny Cash’s life and music, and the boom-chicka-boom sound of his signature backing band, the Tennessee Three. Two shows: 3pm and 7:30pm. Flint Hall at the Falany Performing Arts Center. Tickets and Info: Phone: 770.720.9167 Website: https://www.reinhardt.edu/ falany 3/14 & 3/15 The University Opera Waleska, GA. The University Opera program develops and prepares students for professional roles in opera. Students

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must go through demanding training to develop their voices for this career. As performances will be held in the new theatre as well as in Flint Hall at the Falany, guests will want to check their tickets to ensure they know which location to attend. Sat: 7:30pm, Sun: 3pm. Falany Performing Arts Center. Tickets and Info: Phone: 770.720.9167 Website: https://www.reinhardt.edu/ falany 3/28 Cornell Gunters Coasters Drifters & Platters Hiawassee, GA. Anderson Music Hall featuring a wooden stage. 7:00PM. Tickets On Sale January 10 Level 1: $40.00 + Handling Level 2: $30.00 + Handling Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Road , Hiawassee, GA 30546. Info: http://www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com or 706-8964191.

3/28 Randall Bramlett Blue Ridge, GA. Live Music is Better! Known for playing on stage with rock’s legends like Bonnie Raitt, The Allman Brothers Band, Steve Winwood

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SHOP SHOP SHOP SHOP

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

SMALL! LOCAL! SMALL! LOCAL! FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

(16 years), The Band, Roger Glover, Gov’t Mule and Widespread Panic among others.

His band is second to none and are the perfect team to bring his brilliance to life with tons of soul, funk and talent.

7:30 PM to 10:00 PM Blue Ridge Community Theater, 2591 East 1st St., Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Tickets & Info: (706) 632-9223. Visit: www. blueridgecommunitytheater. com

THEATER 1/14 thru 2/20 Free Directing Classes Ellijay, GA. Have you ever thought about directing a play but didn’t know where to start? We’re offering a Free basic introduction to Directing.

Come join us and hopefully you will be on your way to directing one of our plays in the near future. Class is free, but you must reserve a spot.

Tuesday – Thursday, 3pm – 5pm. George Link, Jr. Gilmer Arts Playhouse, 135 Dalton St.,Ellijay, GA 30540. Info and reservations: www.gilmerarts. com or call 706-635-5626.

1/14 thru 2/20 Free Acting Classes Ellijay, GA. Where do I start, I’ve always wanted to be a part of a theater? Free introduction to the basics of acting. This will be a fun class to give you the confidence for future auditions and taking the stage. Its never too late and your never to old to be part of a Community Theater family.

Class is free, but you must reserve a spot. Tuesday – Thursday, 3pm – 5pm. George Link, Jr. Gilmer Arts Playhouse, 135 Dalton St., Ellijay, GA 30540. Info and reservations: www.gilmerarts.com or call 706-635-5626.

2/21 thru 3/8 Messiah on the Frigidaire Jasper, GA. Come laugh at the residents of this Elroy, South Carolina trailer park. They’re just trying to move along with their lives when a strange shadow on the refrigerator changes everything. Friday & Saturday nights at 7:30 pm. Sundays at 2 pm. Adults $18. Seniors $16. Students $14. First Timers $10. Tater Patch Players Theater, 95 Philadelphia Lane, Jasper, GA. For tickets and info visit: www.taterpatchplayers.org or call 706. 253. 2800.

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

3/5 thru 3/22 Four Old Broads Blue Ridge, GA. Retired burlesque queen Beatrice Shelton desperately needs a vacation – and NOT another trip up to Helen, Georgia to see that “precious little German village for the umpteenth time.” A Sassy Seniors Cruise through the Caribbean may be just the ticket if she can just convince her best friend, Eaddy Mae Clayton, to stop praying and go with her. Unfortunately, things have not been very pleasant at Magnolia Place Assisted Living since Nurse Pat Jones began working there. A mystery unfolds with laughter as the gals try to outsmart the evil Nurse Pat Jones and figure out why so many residents have been moved to “the dark side,” what exactly IS that mysterious pill, and what happened to Doctor Head? Blue Ridge Community Theater, 2591 East 1st St., Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Tickets & Info: (706) 632-9223. Visit: www.blueridgecommunitytheater.com 3/27 thru 4/5 Live Theater- Exit Laughing Ellijay, GA. When the biggest highlight in your life for the past 30 years has been your weekly bridge night out with the “girls” what do you do when one of your foursome inconveniently dies?

If you’re Connie, Leona and Millie, three southern ladies from Birmingham you “borrow” the ashes from the funeral home for one last card game, and have the wildest, most exciting night of your lives involves a police raid, a stripper and a whole new way of looking at all the fun you can have when you’re truly living. George Link, Jr. Gilmer Arts Playhouse, 135 Dalton St., Ellijay, GA 30540. Info and reservations: www.gilmerarts. com or call 706-635-5626.

WINE & BEER TASTINGS 1/31 thru 2/2 Wine About Winter Weekend in Ellijay Ellijay, GA. Why whine about the weather when you can Wine About Winter? Retreat to Ellijay this Ground Hog’s Day Weekend and treat yourself to food, fun, and (of course) wine! Ground Hog games, ground hog wine, a scavenger hunt, an indoor beach party complete with a luau, live music, food trucks, free stuff and wine! Get your

group together and start planning your Ellijay Vineyardhopping-groundhog weekend trip planned. Participating Vineyards: Cartecay Vineyards, Chateau Meichtry, Engelheim Vineyards, Ott Farms and Vineyard, Fainting Goat Vineyards, Sharp Mountain Vineyards. For info visit: wineaboutwinterellijay.com Open Every Day Engelheim Vineyards Engelheim Vineyards 127 Lakeview Road, Ellijay, GA 30540. Call 706-635-WINE (9463) or visit www.engelheim.com.

Ongoing Cartecay Vineyards Wine Tastings on the Chimney Patio or the Nealey Barn Loft.

Cartecay Vineyards, 5704 Clear Creek Road, Ellijay, GA 30535. Call 706. 698. 9463 (WINE) or visit www.cartecayvineyards.com Ongoing Cartecay Wine & Craft Ellijay, GA. Cartecay Wine & Craft is a tasting room of Cartecay Vineyards’ located in Historic Downtown Ellijay, serving our wines, other GA Wines and GA Craft Beers.19 South Main Street Ellijay, Georgia 30540. Phone: 706697-9463 or www.facebook. com/cartecaywineandcraft/ Daily Chateau Meichtry Chateau Meichtry, 1862 Orchard Lane, Talking Rock, GA 30175. Info: (706) 5021608 or www. chateaumeichtry.com.

Ongoing Crane Creek VIneyards Young Harriss, GA. Tapas Fridays with live acoustic music. Saturday Vinters Tours. Open Tuesday Sunday. 16 Crane Creek Road | Young Harris, GA 30582. 706.379.1236. cranecreekvineyards.com Wednesdays Bistro 29’s Wine Wednesdays Murphy, NC. Wine Special: $5 off any bottle purchase or a discount of $1 off any glass of wine. 4pm- 10pm.

Bistro 29, 29 Tennessee St, Murphy NC 28906. For info: 828-837-9022 or visit www. mybistro29.com Thursdays Copper Basin Crawl and Brewery Tour Come out every Thursday for the Copper Basin Crawl and

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THIS IS LOVE

A funky and soulful portrait of a legendary artist who turned down fame to make music with his family in Wichita, Kansas.

The documentary, executive produced by Mick Fleetwood, who also co-stars, features appearances from comedians Sinbad and Michael Colyar, the king of funk George Clinton, and Hollywood prodigy Marsai Martin.

Screening at the Blue Ridge Community Theater at 6:30pm on February 28 as part of the Blue Ridge Film Festival, followed by an 8pm live concert by legendary soul/ funk band Rudy Love & The Love Family.

www.blueridgefilmfestival.com Brewery Tour! Meet friends (old and new) ... try new things! Downtown McCaysville & Copperhill, 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM Saturdays Out Of The Blue Wine Tasting Blue Ridge, GA. Drinking alcohol is just drinking. Wine is a lifestyle. Gourmet Living.

We sell fine wine, cheeses, and beer along with specialty kitchen items. Wine tastings Saturdays at 1:00 pm. Out of the Blue, 647 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, 706-258-2750.

Visit www.outofzbleu.com Ongoing Copperhill Brewery Copperhill, TN. High quality craft brews, stop in and experience ours! Monday - Saturday: Noon to 8 PM Sunday: Noon to 5 PM. Copperhill Brewery - 105 Ocoee Street - Copperhill, TN 37317. Info: 423-548-3030 or copperhill brewery.com Ongoing Thurs - Sun Buck Bald Brewing Monday- 2 - 8pm, Thursday, Friday, Saturday - Noon to 8pm, Sunday - Noon to 6pm.

Buck Bald Brewing, 160 Ocoee Street, Copperhill, TN 37317. Info: 706.431.7141 or https://buckbaldbrewing.com Ongoing Thurs - Sun Fannin Brewing Company 3758 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513.

706.258.2762 or www.fanninbrewingcompany.com

Ongoing Thurs - Sat Grumpy Old Men Brewing Dog & kid friendly. 1315 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA. 770-331-8870/404-9662665, grumpyoldmenbrewing. com Ongoing Mon- Sun Valley River Brewery & Eatery Located in Historic Downtown Murphy, NC at 71 Tennessee Street. 828-837-BEER or www.valleyriverbrewery.com Ongoing Thurs- Sun Cartecay River Brewing Co. Ellijay, GA. Thurs - Sun. Craft beers on the river. At 26 River Terrace, Ellijay, GA 30540.

Info: (706) 395-8935 or www. cartecayriverbrewing.com Ongoing Currahhee Brewing Co. Franklin, NC. Mon-Thur 12-9 PM // Fri & Sat 12-10 PM // Sunday 12-8 PM. 100 Lakeside Dr, Franklin, NC 28734. Info: 828.634.0078 or www.curraheebrew.com We recommend checking events before making travel plans as dates and times can change.

Editor’s Note: While we try our best to include everyone, we’re sure we’ve missed some Happenings along the way.

If you’d like to be included in our CALENDAR, please email the information to alice@ blueridgemediagroup.com or call 706. 492. 5070

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AC LIVING HISTORY

history of indian georgia

– Georgia Militia Districts

History Editor Leslie Barker Thomas Digs Deep Into The Rich and Exciting Cultural Past with This Ongoing Series About Our Native Ancestors

Militia District Boundaries Still in Use Today

Above: Pictured are the Gilmer County and Fannin County GMD maps. There are maps for all counties in Georgia available on the Internet.

G

Ministers were exempt from service.

1804, each Militia District was assigned a numGeorgia Territory/Province divided out districts Campaigns were held against the Indians and ber and these numbers remain in use today as from 1733-1879. The idea of having militia disinvolved gathering various men from collecvoter districts. The smaller the number, the eartricts was to form a buffer between the Spanish tive districts to do battle. During the Civil War, lier the district was formed.

Census records ususettlements to the South and the British colonies brigades of GMD were utilized to the north. There was always to gather forces for battle. Many a rumor of war with other books have been written detailnations but also the Indians, ing the history of these units and bandits, pirates and France. their evolution into divisions utiAfter the Revolutionary War, lized during various war efforts. the division of the Georgia Pictured above are the Gilmer Territory that once expanded County and Fannin County to the Mississippi River, inGMD maps. There are maps for volved Georgia doing a survey all counties in Georgia on the of all the Indian Territories Internet.. ACLM of the Creeks and Cherokees.

Those counties already in exisLeslie Barker Thomas is a resident tence added more counties in of Ellijay and the Indian lands. the President of the Gilmer Georgia Militia Districts County Historical Society; Former (GMD) were formed in each President, Georgia Chapter Trail of the counties. There was of Tears Association and Board an elected captain for each Member of the National Trail of district who enrolled those Tears Association. able-bodied armed males between the ages of 16 and 50 “When history is erased, people’s within his district. “Muster Confederate Militia in Georgia. Although parts of the Militia District moral values are also erased.” – Days” were originally intended system were abandoned during the Civil War, many district boundaries Ma Jian for military drilling, but eventunow serve as political subdivisions and voting precincts. ally evolved to little more than social events. The intent was Visit the Gilmer County Historical Society Historic ally indicate what Militia District is involved as to protect the residents against invasions of wild Tabor House & Civil War Museum to where these families lived.

Although parts of animals or wild Indians. It was a good way to 138 Spring Street, Ellijay, Georgia 30540 meet neighbors and keep up with the latest infor- the Militia District system were abandoned during the Civil War, most of the district boundaries 706. 276. 1861. Reservations by Appointment, or mation about their district.

Open Thursday & Friday 10am to 2pm remained intact to serve as political subdivisions As new counties were developed in the state, www.gilmercountyhistoricalsociety.org/ and voting precincts. they were divided out into militia districts. In 30

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FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

So hot, it’s cool.

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