Appalachian Country Living, Aug-Sept 2019

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

Opening All 18-Holes Labor Day Weekend

COPPERHILL BREWERY: YOUR NEW FAVORITE PLACE IN THE BASIN AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

FAT RACCOON GALLERY: ECLECTIC AWESOMENESS APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

FALL FESTIVALS & FAIRS GALORE: JOIN THE FUN 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 your Design Selections if you use our Preferred Builder and purchase before November 5th 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

QUICK NEW MOVE-IN FEATURE HOMES HOMES

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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

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“You Marry the Girl– We’ll Furnish the Home!”

FREE

Rustic Cabin Furniture FINANCING DELIVERY 0 Traditional Home Furnishings E % L B A A VAILABLE IL AVA Contemporary Home Furnishings Maytag, Whirlpool and KitchenAid Appliances Simmons Beautyrest Mattresses • Home Decor

$100 OFF EVERY $899 SPENT

Limit 1 per household, per order, per 30 day period.

Not valid with any other offers. Exclusions apply.

See store for details Enter code “APPLIV” online or in-store.

Offer expires 10/31/19.

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

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The dogs hate me. OK, maybe that’s an overstatement, but between the continued rain and my new work schedule, they aren’t getting the outdoor hiking attention or belly rubs they think they deserve. Well, me neither doggies, so there!

Last fall I took on another magazine client, the American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association (AHRMA). I used to race with them many years ago on my vintage Ducati and Moto Guzzi, and as my European friends used to say, “I was in no danger of winning a race!”

The AHRMA Mag is published 10 times a year, meaning that now I am creating 16 magazines per year. No wonder the dogs are unhappy. While I Rainy, boring day on the couch while Mom enjoy the income boost, I too am works. Tough life for a dog these days! wondering if it’s worth the extra work hours. Most folks of my age started working in our teens, I turn 62 this September, and if anyone is counting, that’s 49 years of working. That’s enough to make anyone tired, sheesh.

Meanwhile, here we are in August with the summer more than half gone, how did that happen so fast? It’s been a good one so far with lovely cooler temps at night up here in the mountains and only a few days with heavy humidity. Locals and visitors have been taking advantage of the dam releases and getting their float on down the Toccoa River, one of the great pleasures of living here.

The best news for this summer has been the revitalization of the Copper Basin.

Spanning two towns and two states, McCaysville, GA and Copperhill, TN– my local hood is rockin’ it big time! Maxine, Billy and I have been enjoying the new local scene without the 15-mile drive to Blue Ridge.

Copperhill Brewery is celebrating its first full year of business by opening a new brewing facility and tasting room, while their Ocoee Street location stays strong.

Offering craft brews, darts, air hockey, live music, trivia Thursdays and for a rainy day– board games galore, you won’t find a better place to hang out.

Right down the street is the newest and hippest gallery around, Fat Raccoon. Oh yeah, we love that name. Here you’ll find cool gifts of pottery, jewelry, sculpture, ornaments, paintings, and who knows what else. Stop on in and meet owner Lori Montgomery who will give you the DL on all of her local artists. Trust me, you won’t leave without something in your shopping bag!

Saving the best for last– Old Toccoa Farm. I’m not even a golfer and I want to join this spectacular community. Just take a look at the beautiful scenery surrounding the environmentally friendly course and you’ll be hooked. Seriously, call them now to take a tour, and don’t miss out on becoming a part of Old Toccoa Farm.

Once again you’ll find the most complete listing of Fall Festivals, Fairs and Events, so take advantage of as many of these as you can possibly fit into your schedule. Get on up off the couch and have some good old fashioned mountain time fun.

See y’all out and about!

Billy Zoom on his dog bed.

Maxine won’t let him on the couch, poor old guy.

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PUBLISHER | EDITOR IN CHIEF Alice Sexton ARTIST IN RESIDENCE Betty Kossick | bkwrites4u@hotmail.com GARDEN| LANDSCAPE EDITOR Your Business Here 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 Postion Open 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 Pam & Harrison Abbott, Copperhill Brewery Trivia Crowd, Ray Higginbotham, Peter Knutzen, Lori Montgomery, Jerry Mucklow, 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

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

Opal lives in a mansion by the dump.

When 3 conmen try to take advantage, she thwarts their dastardly deeds with kindness and generosity.

EVERYBODY LOVES OPAL August 15th - September 1st Thursday - Saturday 7:30 PM Sundays at 2 PM

A retired actor moves into a prisonturned-elder-care facility. And discovers a loveable band of ageing misfits hell-bent on bucking the system.

A FACILITY FOR LIVING September 19th - October 6th Thursday - Saturday 7:30 PM Sundays at 2 PM

At Ellijay Coffeehouse, we always encourage you to EAT, DRINK and GATHER! We are a specialty coffeehouse serving paninis and select pastries all day long 7AM - 7PM , 7 days a week.

Unwind with two outdoor pet-friendly courtyards + a coffee lounge with fireplace, books & games + FREE WIFI.

FRED JOHNSON JAZZ! August 3rd 7:30 PM DIANE DURRETT Rockin’ Soul September 7th 7:30 PM

131 North Main Street • Historic Downtown Ellijay • Georgia 706-635-5565 • ellijaycoffeehouse.com

AND MORE! FIND US ON FB: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/LIVEMUSICISBETTER

GIVE A GIFT OF THEATER CALL THE BOX OFFICE TODAY BOX OFFICE: 706. 632. 9191 BUY ONLINE @ WWW.BLUERIDGECOMMUNITYTHEATER.COM

MAIN: 706. 632. 9223 2591 EAST 1ST STREET • BLUE RIDGE, GA AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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CONTENTS 7

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Restaurant Spotlight, Colonel Poole’s BBQ

A Home Town Favorite. World Famous for Great Food and Friendly Service.

9 Ocoee River Championships

A Three Day Whitewater Competition on the 1996 Olympic Section.

14 Copperhill Brewery

Your New Favorite Place, Serving Craft Beer You’ll Dig!

22 Old Toccoa Farm

With OTF as Your Base Camp, You’ll Ask Yourself Every Morning, “What Do I Want to Do at Camp Today?”

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Fat Raccoon Gallery One of the Best Galleries Featuring Local Artists in the Copper Basin.

Festivals! It’s That Time 34 Fall of Year Again

Our Complete Fall Festivals Preview Listing has Something for Everyone.

ON THE COVER WWW.ACLIV

The 13th Hole – 648 Yard Par 5.

The Time Has Come. Grassing has been completed, the cleaning up is almost done and the cart paths are getting ready to be paved. The highly anticipated opening of the full 18-holes of golf at Old Toccoa Farm is scheduled for Labor Day weekend.

INGMAGA ZINE.COM | AUGUST /SEPTEM BER 2019

s ll 18-Hole Opening A Weekend Labor Day

30 2019 FALL FESTIVALS & FAIRS!

Photo by Jerry Mucklow, jerrymucklow.com Y: LL BREWER COPPERHI FAVORITE YOUR NEW E BASIN TH PLACE IN

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

AC LIVING RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT

COL. POOLE’S Georgia Bar-B-Q

PO Box 727 East Ellijay, GA 30539 706. 635. 4100

Poole’s Bar-B-Q

Oscar and Edna Poole Darvin Poole

www.poolesbarbq.com

CABIN COFFEE DOWNTOWN BLAIRSVILLE STEAK & SUSHI R E S TA U R A N T

Happy Hour M-F 4:30-7 $4 Sushi Rolls • $1.50 Draft Beer $3 Glasses of Wine • $3-$7 Appetizers

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

Call Us Today!

706.492.5070 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

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

Named by CNN as one of the TOP “DON’T MISS BBQ SPOTS” in Georgia and Alabama!

What started as an eight by twelve shack with no indoor seating in 1989, Poole’s Bar-B-Q, is now world famous for its great food, friendly service, the Taj-Mah-Hog, the Hog-Rock-Cafe, The Pig- Moby-il and the Pig Hill of Fame.

Yes the Pig Hill of Fame. Rumor has it that state authorities would not allow Colonel Poole to put a sign by the highway, so instead he just up and planted pigs on the steep hill behind his restaurant. First it was just names of friends and family, but now the Pig Hill of Fame has over 4,000 little piggies. Want your name on a pig? For just five bucks, they paint your name on a pig and plant it somewhere on the hill. Then you have to come back and try to find it!

With the tourist attraction aside, Poole’s Bar-B-Q is a serious All-American BBQ establishment serving delicious options for locals and visitors alike. At lunchtime you’ll find fire fighters, policemen and women, and many other local workers partaking in the great home style foods. By evening, be prepared to stand in line because it’s just THAT good. Poole’s offers up beef, pork and chicken barbecue plates with Colonel Poole’s in-house barbecue sauce. There are a plenty of side dishes to choose from: barbecue beans, creamy macn-cheese, crisp coleslaw, potato salad, Brunswick stew, freedom fries, and onion rings. Many say the Brunswick stew is some of the best they’ve ever had. If you’re hankering for Brisket- get there early before they run out! For the younger (or maybe just less hungry) crowd, Poole’s offers Junior plates. Not in the mood for barbecue?

Poole’s offers ribs, chicken strips, corn dogs and hot dogs.

Take some of Colonel Poole’s famous BBQ sauce home with you- Original or Sweet- or get both. And don’t forget to impress your friends with a Poole’s BBQ Pig Hill of Fame T-shirt.

Get ready to treat yourself to some great local Bar-B-Q! ACLM Colonel Poole’s BAR-B-Q – Open Thursday thru Sunday Highway 515 at 164 Craig Street East Ellijay, GA 30540 706. 635. 4100 www.poolesbarbq.com • Thursdays from 11am to 7pm • Fridays and Saturdays from 11am to 8pm • Sunday from 11am to 7pm Facebook “f ” Logo

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Just Look for the Pig Hill of Fame!

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Full Bar | Patio Dining | Live Music

NEW! THE CELLAR Wine •Bar •Tapas

588 East Main Street | Blue Ridge, Georgia

706. 946. 5200 treoblueridge.com

Your New Favorite Place.

Serving Craft BeerYou’llDig! Now open in Copperhill.

PINTS, FLIGHTS, AND GROWLERS OF EXCEPTIONAL TASTING CRAFT BEER

Monday – Saturday 12–8 & Sunday 12–5

423.548.3030 Facebook “f” Logo

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105OcoeeSreet, Copperhill,TN37313

www.copperhillbrewery.com 8

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

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AC LIVING ADVENTURE

Ocoee River Championships ORC Returns! A Three Day Multidiscipline Whitewater Competition on the 1996 Olympic Section of the Ocoee.

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In 1996 the world’s eyes were on the Ocoee Whitewater Center (OWC) as it hosted the world’s first Olympic whitewater event on a natural river and is the only in-river course to be used for Olympic slalom competition.

A 1,640 foot (500 m) stretch of the Upper Ocoee River was narrowed by two-thirds to create the drops and eddies needed for a slalom course.

At the 1996 Summer Olympics, history was made as canoe and kayak competitors battled for medals in the first Olympic whitewater course built in an active river channel.

Innovative Stabilization Techniques From nature’s original design, Rick McLaughlin and John Anderson re-engineered the Ocoee’s bed into the biggest and most challenging whitewater course in the nation. In the process, they developed innovative grouted boulder techniques now used by engineers across the country.

The new course had to be…

• Natural- looking, to create interest for this unappealing section of river • Challenging for whitewater athletes • Permanently low-maintenance • Capable of withstanding floods which easily move four foot boulders.

“If water could tell the story about its journey from the mountains to the sea, its travel through the Ocoee Whitewater Center would be the most exciting part.”

- Joe Jacobi, 1992 Olympic gold Medal Winner (Men’s Double Canoe). Photo above left courtesy of Engel Jones.

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

2nd Annual Ocoee River Championships Almost 2 decades in the waiting, now competition returns, the Ocoee River Championships are back for the second year!

The second annual Ocoee River Championships (ORC) bring annual whitewater competition back to Ocoee Whitewater Center, a world class Olympic venue. This three-day whitewater event on September 13-15, 2019 will provide live music, regional vendors, and competitions including downriver racing (raft, SUP, canoe, and kayak), slalom racing, freestyle, and squirt boat categories. ORC proceeds support the Ocoee River Basin Foundation 501c3. The ORC will be staged in the Cherokee National Forest, managed by the Ocoee Ranger District of the United States Forest Service.

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

For our inaugural 2018 event we had 135 athletes participate, resulting in 281 separate entries with many entering multiple boats/ events/classes. We had 22 exciting and dynamic raft teams. 30 people competed in Freestyle, and 65 paddlers entered downriver for 78 starts. Boatercross drew 48 paddlers, there were 23 ducky entries, and 20 SUPs. 111 Men participated and 24 talented Women. Help spread the word, let’s get more paddlers to the 2019 ORC! ACLM Photos courtesy of Ocoee River Championships

OCOEE RIVER CHAMPIONSHIPS SEPTEMBER 13-15, 2019 ocoeeriverchampionships.com WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

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The Largest Yarn Shop in north Georgia!

Stop by for Back to School Fun!

WE’VE GOT THE HOTTEST BRANDS THAT ARE TOO COOL.

Exquisite Specialty Yarns of all Fiber Types in Basics to Novelty

Check out our side walk sale Aug. 2nd and 3rd.

Just in time to build your fall wardrobe at great prices.

Shop early to get your size!

Shoes, clothes and accessories at great prices!

PLUS

Books • Patterns • Needles Notions • Purse Handles

Knit & Crochet Classes for Beginners to Advanced

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

STORE HOURS MONDAY THRU SATURDAY 10 AM TO 6 PM

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

Make

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

BlueRidgeMountainTrailRides.com

in Ellijay

THE PLACE for Your Home Shopping!

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

• Outdoor/Hunting Clothing • Carhartt & FitKicks • Women’s & Children’s Clothing • Men’s & Women’s Boots

AMY HOWARD AT HOME PAINT COLLECTION

MADE HERE AT ACE SWINGING PORCH BED

305 South Main Street • Ellijay, GA 30540 706. 635. 2236 10Ace_Half_Horz_06_2016.indd WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM 1

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 5/11/17 11:252019 AM

AC LIVING LANDSCAPE & GARDEN

Seiridium Canker of Leyland Cypress Landscape & Garden Editor Kevin Johnson Talks About Diagnosing and Treating one of Our Landscape Favorites

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Leyland Cypress, x Cupressocyparis leylandii, is a very common and popular landscape tree used throughout the Appalachian area. This coniferous evergreen is often used for screens and hedges due to its fast growing nature.

Leyands can easily grow 4-5 feet in a year. They have been relatively easy to care for with little to no disease problems except maybe the rare bagworm infestation. Things have certainly changed. We receive as many calls from folks concerned about Leyland Cypress as we do for Hemlock Woolly Adelgid. Because the Leyland Cypress is commonly found in our landscapes, it’s important to understand what’s happening to them.

Several years ago I attended an industry conference. During one of the seminars the speaker from U.G.A covered Seiridium Canker of Leyland Cypress. This was the first time I heard of this disease. Over the next few months I started paying attention to Leyland Cypress and things became very apparent. A tree that was virtually maintenance free was in trouble.

Seiridium Canker is possibly the most damaging disease affecting Leylands damaging small newly planted specimens and large mature trees alike. Cankers, which appear as sunken darkish brown or purplish patches on the bark, form on stems and branches causing dieback.

Often homeowners mistake the cankers for bark boring insects, sadly, this is hardly ever the case. Dead branches turn brown and disease spores rapidly spread to uninfected parts of the Cypress or to uninfected trees by rainwater and irrigation. Seiridium Canker can also be spread through pruning.

Currently there are no chemical control measures to treat Seiridium Canker so spraying fungicides on infected trees simply doesn’t work.

We do recommend pruning out infected limbs, although pruning is sometimes impossible on very large/tall Leylands. As always, be sure to sterilize your loppers or pruning tools between cuts using a 1 to 9 bleach – water solution.

For new landscapes, providing proper spacing AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

Leyland cypress (x Cupressocyparis leylandii) is a graceful, rapidly growing evergreen tree that is adapted for growth within the 6-10a USDA hardiness zones. The tree will ultimately attain a majestic height of up to 40 feet.

Planting too close together and in poorly drained soils, Leyland cypress is prone to root rot and several damaging canker diseases, especially during periods of prolonged drought. Disease management is a consideration for Leyland cypress.

between trees will allow for air flow, reducing the risk of the pathogen spreading from tree to tree as easily. Avoiding stress by watering Leylands during times of significant drought and avoiding tree wounding also helps to reduce the risk of infection. The good news is I’ve seen very mature Leyland’s develop Seiridium Canker and continue to survive.

There are also several other cankers and root rot issues affecting the Leyland Cypress that may present to the homeowner as Seiridium Canker.

Therefore, it’s always important to get the right diagnosis so that you can address the problem correctly. ACLM

For additional reading on the subject visit: • http://extension.uga.edu/publications/detail. cfm?number=B1229 • http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/pp/notes/ Ornamental/odin17/od17.htm

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Kevin Johnson is the owner of Green Leaf Lawn and Ornamental, LLC, based in Blue Ridge. For more information about the devastating hemlock woolly adelgid and treatment options, Kevin can be reached toll free at 866. 883. 2420 or by email at growitgreen@etcmail.com.

Or check out his web site at www.wetreatlawns. com or visit www.hemlocks.org for more info.

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>CUSTOM SCREEN ENCLOSURES >THREE SEASON ENCLOSED PORCHES >UNDERDECKING >RAILINGS

Because Life is Just Better on the Porch!

706.889.8343

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

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AC LIVING STYLE & DESIGN

Design Trend: 50+ Shades of Gray!

Style & Design Editor Cindy Trimble Explains why Gray is a Fantastic Backdrop for Almost Any Accent Color

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Interior Design trends come and go. Trends are driven by shapes, materials, colors and other elements. Of all elements, color trends have been very dominating. Do you remember the olive and gold look of the 60’s and the mauve and gray in the 70’s? The current infatuation with GRAY has dominated in a such a huge way that it has taken over architecture, fabrics, furnishings, lighting, materials and just about everything on the interior spaces. What is fascinating about the GRAY craze is the use of a multitude or “50+ shades of gray!” Designers are layering multiple shades of gray on top of each other creating so many beautiful visual and psychological effects.

The evolution of the gray trend is now focused on what accent color is going to be placed on top of the GRAY? Two years ago the accent color was gold, last year it was Turquoise. Now we are seeing dark purple and cobalt blue coming out in our supplier’s catalogues and markets we attend. Gray is a fantastic backdrop for all colors!

The emotional/subliminal and psychological impact of color has never been so dramatic than with the use of gray. The effect Gray has had on our clients has been astounding. The light warm grays have a calming, soothing spa like effect.

One client was ready to sell their huge log home because they could not sit in the great room area. All surfaces in the room were aged white cedar with aged polyurethane applied – both which had yellowed with the sun and age. They stated: “it was dreary, depressing and dark.” We bathed the huge log structure with a warm, light gray paint. They are once again in love with their home! We have also used reclaimed gray barn wood to give a textural gray look. We have incorporated gray concrete and tiles to play on textures and patterns.

Worth noting is that not all grays are equal in terms of impact. Warm light grays are much more soothing and inviting than cool dark grays.

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

Gray is actually the absence of a color so it is important to blend other colors with the grays as accents to create a successful design.

This last week, I toured several of our client’s homes with my photographer Tom Harper to document all the different ways we are using gray in our projects. Tom captured images of multiple shades of gray evident in a wide range of materials. 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

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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COPPERHILL

BREWERY.

YOUR NEW FAVORITE PLACE, SERVING CRAFT BEER YOU’LL DIG!

Owners Pam and Harrsion Abbott couldn’t be happier fulfilling their dreams in Copperhill, TN. Harrison Abbott and brewmaster Alan Reis, just two guys who love making beer.

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

Get your souvenir gear! High quality T-shirts, pint glasses, growlers, bottle openers, keychains, coasters, stickers.

Make your Memories Count.

Join us Thursday nights from 6-8pm for Trivia. Locals and visitors get together for some friendly compettion, and of course beer!

Come and watch the game at rustic hand-hewn bar.

Harrison and Pam Abbott spent many weekends at their second home in Blue Ridge, finding it harder and harder to return to their Acworth home each time they visited. Enjoying the local festivals, restaurants, and of course the local brewery scene.

Secretly on the lookout for a full-time home in the mountains, one afternoon Pam called Harrison, and said, “Let’s just take a look at this home for sale.” They called their realtor, toured the home, and before they knew it, their Acworth home was on the market. They were about to be full time residents.

The Abbott’s were fortunate to be able to relocate full-time to Blue Ridge. Harrison, working for himself in commercial lending, and Pam, a COTA/L, made moving to the mountains an easy transition. Pam began managing their cabin as a rental while continuing to work rehab. However, Harrison, working his own gig from home, still had a nagging desire to fulfill his dream of owning a brewery. With the new development happening in McCaysville, GA and Copperhill, TN, they saw the potential to start their brewery in the Copper Basin. What better place for them place for them to invest in a growing community.

Harrison found the perfect location in AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Copperhill for the brewery and after signing the lease, construction began. But what to name the brewery? The Abbott’s immersed themselves in learning the history of the area, and the heritage left by the now closed copper mines.

Pam and Harrison discovered the best source for this local historical data was the Ducktown Basin Museum. Located on the historic Burra Burra mine site, which was the headquarters for Tennessee Copper Company and Cities Service mining operations from 1899 through 1975, the Museum offers a wealth of information. The site, now owned by the Tennessee Historical Commission, has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1983.

This was all the inspiration Pam and Harrison needed in naming their new establishment the Copperhill Brewery. Armed with a logo depicting tools of the trade, a miner’s lamp, shovel and pick, they turned their attention to interior design. In support of the local community, they purchased stark and compelling black and white photo prints from the Ducktown Basin Museum, found miner’s relics and tools, and even added mining-inspired lighting. A few touches of copper around the long and inviting rough-hewn bar complete the design. Even their tag line is reminiscent WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

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SAVING OUR CLIENTS MONEY SINCE 2010

North Georgia Furniture & Home Decor

It is our goal to deliver comfort, style and quality furniture, bedding and accessories at very competitive prices.

DELIVERING AMERICAN MADE PRODUCTS WHENEVER POSSIBLE!

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

but certainly worth the effort!

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

706. 632. 3127

2142 Tails Creek Road, Ellijay GA 30540 My Paw Paw Will Save You Money!

Located 2 miles from Dairy Queen on Highway 282 in Ellijay

Call 706. 635. 4202 or Visit ngfh.net

www.BlueRidgeCoinShop.com AUTOMATIC HOME STANDBY GENERATORS TRANSFER SWITCHES SURGE PROTECTORS

Around Back at Rocky’s Place

The Ultimate Folk Art Gallery in the South!

Best Selection by “Cornbread” in the Universe!

Have Power When You Need it and Want it 24/7 for Your Home or Business. And if You Think Whole House Generators are Not Affordable...

THINK AGAIN!

• 7,000 to 150,000 Watts • Fully Automatic Home Standby • 24 Hour Blackout Protection • LP or Natural Gas

“Multi-colored Chicks” by Cornbread Saturday 11-5 Sunday 1-5 Or by Appointment

Mention This Ad and Receive a

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

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706. 265. 6030 www.aroundbackatrockysplace.com 18

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5-year Warranty, Up to a $495 Value with Purchase!

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Power Solutions Unlimited

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

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

Kick back on a comfy leather sofa, throw some darts while sipping your favorite brew, or challenge your bestie to a fast game of air hockey. Grab a pint, sit in the window and watch the world pass by.

Theres’ something for everyone at the Copperhiil Brewery. Come join us! of mining, ‘Serving Craft Beer You’ll Dig!’ The Copperhill Brewery opened in 2018 on August 4th and has been a friendly hang-out in the community for locals and visitors alike ever since.

Fast forward to nearly one year later and the Harrison’s gamble has paid off. Alan Reis has been an integral part of the brewery from day one, as he and Harrison shared the same vision.With a keen interest in craft beer, Alan has traveled the world to pursue his passion for tasting. After landing a job in one of Blue Ridge’s local breweries, where he was exceptionally trained by two of his good friends, Alan has now become the head brewer at the Copperhill Brewery.

Under his guidance, the brewery quickly grew from 8 taps to 19, all while still brewing on a one-barrel system. Most customers are shocked when they are told the size of the system. While the brewery has maintained an assortment of craft beers capturing many different tastes, it became apparent that a larger system was needed AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

to continue with their progress.

Both Harrison and Alan felt they needed to stay true to the Copper Basin area, which has led Harrison to purchasing a building on Main Street in Ducktown, TN. The new space will accommodate a 10-barrel brew facility and weekend tap room. Guests will soon have the option to visit Copperhill Brewery in Copperhill seven days a week, or visit the brew facility in Ducktown on weekends. The estimated opening date in Ducktown is early Fall 2019. What a way to celebrate Copperhill Brewery’s first year!

If you’re interested in learning how to open a brew facility, you can follow their exciting progress on Instagram or Facebook.

The Copperhill Brewery is definitely a casual space where it’s easy to hangout. Play darts, grab a board game or come play trivia on Thursday nights. Bring in your own food, or order from one of the local restaurants, some will even deliver to the Brewery. You can even bring your dog too! There’s often live music on weekends and other special events going on which you can find listed on their calendar.

Harrison and Alan are just two guys that love craft beer. They share the same vision, passion, and desire to create craft beer, that will leave you wanting more, so come on by! ACLM

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For More Information: Copperhill Brewery 105 Ocoee Street - Copperhill, TN 37317 info@copperhillbrewery.com 423-548-3030 HOURS Monday - Saturday: Noon to 8 PM Sunday: Noon to 5 PM Website: copperhillbrewery.com Facebook: facebook.com/CopperhillBrewery

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Come Play With Us! A Steady Pace of New Construction, a Growing Membership, and 18-Holes of Extraordinary Golf It’s Time to Visit Old Toccoa Farm

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Hole #1: Par 4

For the past few years, Old Toccoa Farm members, guests and public golfers have enjoyed the beautiful and challenging Bunker Hill designed 9-holes completed back in 2015. A few weeks from now, on Labor Day weekend, the developers of Old Toccoa Farm will unveil the highly anticipated back 9-holes enabling them to have all 18-holes of golf open for play. With a new routing and plenty of new challenges, golfers of all ages and skill sets should call to make a tee time asap. New golf holes with long range mountain views (#12 – a short par 3), and views of the mountain and the river (#13 – a 648-yard par 5), have all golfers talking for hours after they finish their round of golf. Those who have played the existing 9-holes and the fortunate few who have recently toured the new 9-holes, are once again touting it as one of the best they have ever seen, and they wouldn’t be surprised to see it ranked as on the best golf courses in the southeast.

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The Time Has Come. The grassing is complete, and the cart

paths are getting ready to be paved. The highly anticipated opening of the full 18-holes of golf at Old Toccoa Farm is scheduled for Labor Day weekend. Before we get into more, do yourself a favor and mark your calendars so you can be one of the first golfers to play this incredible course. The developers wanted us to inform everyone that public players are invited to reserve tee times for the Labor Day weekend starting on Wednesday, August 21. If you are interested in being one of the first public golfers to play the full 18-holes, call the Old Toccoa Farm golf shop at 706.946.4653 on August 21st to make your tee time.

For the past few years local and visiting golfers have agreed that Old Toccoa Farm is a special golf course. The turf conditions are exceptional and the overall design of the course is both challenging and enjoyable for both high and low handicap golfers. This was the plan from the beginning.

Make this a fun course and one the golfers will not soon forget after playing it.

Labor Day will soon be upon us, but today we provide a sneak peek at what’s to come with a hole by hole overview written by master shaper, Jack Dredla of Bunker Hill Golf. The course was designed by lead design associates for Bunker Hill Golf, Dan Proctor and Dave Axland, but Jack Dredla was the artist who shaped the holes from raw dirt into what you see today and what you will see starting on Labor Day.

Hole #1 will be a good firm starting par 4 hole playing a little over 350 yards uphill with a generous fairway to get your round off to a good start. Players can play it safe or they can play the risk-reward shot over the left fairway bunker giving them the best shot into a large undulated green.

Some really interesting pin placements are available on this green.

Hole #2 will be another par 4 with. Lot of left to right slope but with plenty of area for the ball to settle in for a good second. The second shot will be down-hill into a right to back left angled green. This green is surrounded by undulated approach areas and protected by deep bunkers.

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Hole #4: Short hole, mountain view

Hole #6: Beautiful, with the old farm barn

the tee and have a simple wedge into the green on your second shot for a birdie, or you can take a driver out and try to clear the bunker in the middle of the fairway some 250 yards off the tee and run your drive up onto the green. The option is always there, it just depends on the player and his or her skill set. Just right of the fairway sits a small pond so players really need to think through how best to approach the hazards in front of them.

Hole #5 is one of the most controversial holes on the course. Most find this hole to be extremely difficult and some have even named the hole “the beast;” because “you just can’t kill the beast.” It takes a good drive and a good second shot to play this hole successfully. The shot into the green is narrow and short left isn’t going to benefit you at all, and being too long is not a good shot either. Dan Proctor said that he often designs a bogey hole when designing a golf course, and this is one of them.

Toccoa River views from Hole #6

From #2 players will drive over a newly constructed bridge made from a chassis from an old Ford flatbed truck. As players pass over the bridge they will drive through a beautiful wooded area on their way to hole #3.

Hole #3, better known as The Wall, is a par 4 that entices players to bomb away on their drive from right to left. The ball is playable from either the upper area or lower area of the fairway even when if you don’t hit a long drive. This short par 4 has a tricky green with many undulated areas moving the ball left to right and front to back.

Hole #4 is a short hole with a long-range view of the Rich Mountain Wilderness. You can play this hole smart by laying up with an iron off AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

Hole #6 is just a great looking golf hole. An incredible view of the river valley below, and old barn on the right side of the fairway and the Toccoa River behind the green. After you hit driver or a long iron off the tee, you will have a tough second shot into a green that runs away from you. Some members will putt into this green on their second shot rather than risk a chip that runs off the back of the green.

Hole #7 is a beautiful par 5 that runs along the river. A big drive is ideal to the middle of a generous fairway with multiple second shot options. For the big hitters this green is reachable in two. For most golfers the second shot can either be a three wood or a hybrid hit between two sets of fairway side bunkers to a nice wide landing area in front of the green.

Pull your second shot left and you are in big trouble.

Hole #8 is a downhill par 3 with a mountain slope left of the green designed to be a backstop for golf shots. Play this hole often enough and you will find the spot on the backdrop to hit that will place your ball on the green every time. If you are fortunate enough to get your first shot to

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Hole #9: Short Par 4

Hole #12: Short Par 3

hold on to this green, you will still be challenged with some tough putts as this green has a lot of movement in it. A par here is a great score. #9 is a very short par 4 that defines the definition of risk and reward. The hole is barely over 300 yards but has all sorts of bunkers and waste areas that players must contend with. And if that wasn’t enough, players will be very cautious as they hit into a narrow postage stamp size green. A great hole to wrap up your first 9 holes.

#10 is a very strong par 4 with a medium width fairway. The second

shot is either over a greenside bunker that protects most pins on the right, or left center, but this shot is heading onto the long narrow portion of the green. The key will be to have a good drive which should provide all players with a simple shot into the green‌if you have your distances right.

#11 is one of the most unique holes on the course. This 320-yard, par 4

has a series of steep and deep bunkers along the right side and a big bowl of turf on the left side of the hole, which is the preferred shot. Players who hit long towards the bowl, and are a bit long, will find their ball on a steep hillside with a very steep uphill chip to the green. Players who decide to lay up just short of the bowl will have a great view of the green and the best chance at attacking the pin.

#12 This visually stimulating par 3 will have golfers coming back for

more, more and more. Short hole that offers multiple tee locations and angles into the green.

#13 What a golf hole. A strong par 5 at 640 yards to the front of the green, will have golfers scratching their head while looking at the kayakers in the distance behind the green. The tee shot hits into a big fairway with 24

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Jack Dredla, the artist who shaped raw dirt into what you see today. lots of room on the left. All tee shots have two bunkers to contend with.

Second shots are downhill and regardless of being a big hitter or not, all players will enjoy watching the ball roll down this beautiful fairway. On the third shot, golfers must avoid a nasty set of bunkers on the left and a small pot bunker within the fairway just past the nasty bunkers. Flying over the pot bunker is the shot onto this larger green.

#14 The strongest par 3 on the course and it has a double green shared with hole #16.

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Hole #13: Strong Par 5 at 648 yards

Holes #15 & 16: St. Andrews Double

#15 This is a very strong par 4 with a creek running across the rough just

after the fairway ends at about the 340-yard mark. The fairway on this hole is quite narrow with tall rough on the left side and a deep bunker directly in the middle of the fairway at 250 yards. A player’s second shot must be laser straight to make par here.

#16 is a 330-yard par 4 with some bunkering on the right and the left

but overall this is a short hole that does not require a long drive. Just get it out there in the middle and the second shot will come into the very large double green shared with #14. The double green pays homage to St. Andrews and players just need to pause and look around at the scenery at this hole and they will think they are playing in Scotland.

#17 is a strong par 4 that has no bunkers but requires a very strong drive to get up on the elevated fairway. A strong drive with a little left to right fade will be ideal. Players must carry the false front of the green to make on the putting surface. Need a good drive here or this will be a long hole.

#18 is a great finishing hole. As a short par 5 this is a good chance for

a birdie which always makes a nice ending to a fun day on the links. The second shot requires some thought. Players can go for the green with a good drive or they can lay up a little further back. The green runs 40 yards front to back so just imagine the pin placements that can be created here.

It’s an exciting time for the developers and members of Old Toccoa Farm and the greater community of Blue Ridge and Fannin County. This fall, for the first time ever, the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament will be played in Fannin County. Old Toccoa Farm will AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

host two additional tournaments to benefit residents of Fannin County, the Habitat for Humanity Golf Tournament in September, and the Old Toccoa Farm Fall Classic Golf Tournament in November benefiting The Open Arms Home for Children.

The opening of the full 18-holes of golf will stand center stage for a short while, but it’s the pace of construction of well designed custom homes that will last a lifetime. Ten custom homes have been completed, ranging in price from $550,000 to over $1 million, two new custom homes are currently under construction, and ten additional custom homes are in design review and should break ground over the next several months. Truly a beautiful community in the making.

In addition to the custom homes being built, the developers have plans for several new spec homes starting in the coming weeks and months. And if that wasn’t exciting enough, the developers of Old Toccoa Farm will begin constructing 11 small footprint cottages they plan to have completed and available for overnight guests by early spring. ACLM To learn more about the developer of Old Toccoa Farm: Developer – OTF Holdings, LLC – 404.277.4980 Real Estate Sales – 706.946.4663 Membership Information – 4706.946.4663 Golf Tee Times – 706.946.4653 Visit their website: oldtoccoafarm.com

Photos by: Squareframe Media, squareframemedia.com, Jerry Mucklow Photography, jerrymucklow.com

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Summer THE

INVINCIBLES OF

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AC LIVING RECIPES

New World Taste for Old time Favorites

Thai Cucumber Salad

This Thai cucumber salad is best served after it’s had a chance to soak up some of the dressing, so let it sit for at least 20 minutes, or make it up to a day in advance, then enjoy!

Ingredients 1 lb cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced I prefer the small persian cucumbers 2 teaspoons salt 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion 1/2 cup rice vinegar 1/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro 1/3 cup chopped peanuts

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Instructions Place the cucumbers in a colander and sprinkle the salt over them.

Toss to coat the cucumber slices in salt. Let sit 10 minutes.

Use a paper towel to blot the cucumber slices dry.

Place the rice vinegar and sugar in a small bowl.

Microwave for 30 seconds and stir until sugar is dissolved.

Place the cucumbers and red onion in a large bowl, then pour the rice vinegar mixture over the top.

Add the cilantro to the cucumber mixture and stir until combined. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 24 hours.

Sprinkle the peanuts over the top, then serve.

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Stay Cool as a Cucumber

Cucumber Collins

Cucumber Lime Margarita Cucumber-Mint Sparklers

Ingredients 4 slices cucumber (plus extra for garnish) 1 oz. freshly squeezed lemon juice 1 oz. simple syrup (recipe below) 2 oz. gin Club soda, to top off Mint, to garnish Simple Syrup 1 cup granulated sugar 1 cup water

Ingredients Cucumber Juice 2 cucumbers*, peeled, makes roughly 1.5 cups of juice Cucumber Lime Margarita 1–1/2 ounces silver tequila 1–1/2 ounces fresh lime juice (usually half a lime) 3 ounces cucumber juice lime and cucumber wedges for garnish

Instructions In the bottom of a glass, muddle cucumber slices, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Muddle until the cucumbers are a bit crushed and the juices have released.

Add gin and fill the glass with ice. Top cocktail off with club soda.

Garnish with cucumber slice and mint.

Instructions Cucumber juice: Juice the peeled cucumbers in your juicer or blender. If using a blender, add the cucumber and blend for about 30-45 seconds until it looks like thick juice. Separate the pulp from the juice by setting a fine mesh strainer over a bowl or large measuring cup.

Gently push on the pulp using a wooden spoon or spatula. There will be enough cucumber juice to make 4 margaritas.

Margarita: In an 8 ounce glass filled with ice, add the tequila, lime juice and cucumber juice.

Stir to combine. Garnish with a wedge of cucumber and lime.

Simple Syrup Put sugar and water in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Once mixture is boiling, lower heat and let simmer for about 10 minutes, until sugar has dissolved and mixture thickens.

Pour syrup into a heat-proof bowl or mason jar and place in fridge to let cool completely.

Recipe Notes If you prefer to leave the muddled cucumber out of your drink, you can prepare the cocktail in a shaker, add gin and strain the drink into an ice filled glass.

Source: tasteslovely.com

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Instructions First, you’ll need to make the simple syrup.

In a small saucepan, bring the sugar, water and mint leaves to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, swirling the saucepan occasionally, until the sugar dissolves, 1-2 minutes. Remove from the heat and cool completely before using.

In a cocktail shaker, muddle the chopped cucumber with the lime juice. Add the vodka, simple syrup and a few ice cubes, and shake vigorously until the outside of the shaker becomes frosty. Strain into a glass filled with ice (I like crushed ice for this), and top with Prosecco. Garnish with the cucumber slice and mint sprig.

Source: domesticate-me.com

Source: wearenotmartha.com 28

Ingredients 1-inch piece of seedless cucumber, finely chopped ½ ounce fresh lime juice (that’s the juice from about half a lime) 1½ ounces vodka 2 teaspoons mint simple syrup (recipe below) 3 ounces Prosecco or champagne For the Mint Simple Syrup: ½ cup granulated sugar ½ cup water ½ cup fresh mint leaves For Garnish: 3-4 slices cucumber 1 sprig fresh mint

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Mediterranean Sauteed Yellow Squash

Delicious sauteed yellow squash recipe, prepared Mediterranean-style with sweet onions, bell peppers, garlic and a warm Eastern Mediterranean spice combination. A seriously bright and healthy vegetarian side dish that comes together in minutes!

Ingredients Extra virgin olive oil 1 sweet onion, halved and thinly sliced 3 garlic cloves, minced 4 medium yellow squash 1 red bell pepper, cored and thinly sliced Kosher salt Black pepper Crumbled feta cheese (optional) Pitted marinated olives, sliced (optional) Handful chopped fresh parsley (optional) Spice Mixture 1 tsp za’atar, and a little more for later* 3/4 tsp to 1 tsp Aleppo pepper (start with less if you’re not sure) 3/4 tsp ground cumin

translucent (you can raise heat to medium-hot and toss onions regularly.)

Add garlic, yellow squash, and red bell peppers.

Drizzle a little more extra virgin olive oil.

Season with salt, pepper, and spice mixture. Toss with a wooden spoon to make sure vegetables are well coated with the spices. Cook on medium-high, stirring occasionally, until squash and peppers are nice and tender (I like my squash to have some carmalized parts, so it helps to raise the heat for a little while.)

Transfer to a serving platter. Add another drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a generous pinch of za’atar. If you like, add a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese, pitted olives, and a handful of chopped fresh herbs like parsley. Enjoy!

Cooking time will vary depending on how tender you like your squash. Personally, I like to get a little caramalization/char on my yellow squash, so, I turn up the heat for a short while to accomplish that while maintaining some bite to the squash.

Source: themeditertaneandish.com

Instructions Heat 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. Add sweet onions and cook for about 4 minutes until AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

Parmesan Zucchini

This parmesan zucchini is crusted in crispy breadcrumbs and cheese, then baked to golden brown perfection. An easy side dish or appetizer option!

Ingredients 1 lb zucchini quartered and cut into sticks 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese salt and pepper to taste cooking spray Instructions Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Coat a sheet pan with cooking spray.

Place the zucchini in a bowl. Add the olive oil and toss to coat.

Add the breadcrumbs, salt, pepper and parmesan cheese and toss until zucchini is coated.

Arrange the zucchini spears in a single layer on the sheet pan.

Bake for 10-15 minutes or until browned and zucchini is tender. Serve immediately with marinara sauce if desired. You do NOT want to overbake your zucchini or it will get mushy and be hard to pick up.

Source: dinnerathtezoo.com

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Fat Raccoon Gallery Eclectic, Magical, and Awesome!

Appalachian Country Living Magazine had a chance to catch up with Lori Montgomery, the owner and visionary behind the amazing Fat Raccoon Gallery in Copperhill, TN. Since opening in October 2018, Fat Raccoon has become one of the best galleries featuring local artists in the Copper Basin, let’s dig into why.

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Q

Appalachian Country Living- Magazine: Hey Lori- so nice to get together with you and learn a little bit more about you and your lovely gallery. I know you have a cabin in Murphy, NC, where were you located before and what brought you to this area?

A

Lori Montgomery: We love this area! Our longterm friendships with Murphy and Blue Ridge friends initially drew us here to visit.

After multiple visits and day drives from Roswell, GA, we decided this would be where we would like to retire and began looking for our ideal place.

Q

ACLM: I also understand that you are a horticulturist/landscape designer and previously worked with your husband Steve in your successful career together founding Steve Montgomery and Company in Roswell, GA. How does your creative landscape design eye figure into your love of art?

A

LM: I feel creativity transcends into any area of art you choose to pursue. The use of design and color is key in all forms of artistic endeavors.

Initial interest leads to gaining knowledge and skill. Consequently, using those skills leads to proficiency and contentment with your chosen medium.

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Q

ACLM: Fat Raccoon Gallery is such an eclectic and unique place. Let us in on the secret of how you built such a cool and hip space to display the art you feature?

A

LM: I love to visit quirky, off the beaten path stores in new and familiar areas where local art may be for sale. Seeing new types of creative art is very exciting to me. We wanted to offer a space that feels like home for our new friends to shop in. I don’t feel a traditional gallery’s white walls and backgrounds enhance most art because most homes do not have stark white walls and bright lights. We wanted a friendly, inviting space for people to enjoy, feel comfortable and bring their family. We also chose to be deliberate in having room for all visitors to have space to move comfortably and not feel it is too restrictive for strollers, etc.

Q

ACLM: You have so many different styles and types of art in your gallery. Everything from pottery and paintings, to jewelry, ornaments, small sculptures and photography. (change or add here). What is your selection process? What inspires you to include one artist over another?

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A

LM: Our selection process begins with determining that a new artist’s style does not duplicate any other artist who is already showing their work in Fat Raccoon Gallery.

We reserve the right to determine which pieces we feel have a wider appeal to our buying clients based on what has sold and according to available space. It is appealing to many visitors that we offer smaller sized original art pieces that can be easily carried with them as opposed to requiring shipping. We are family friendly and do not accept intentionally violent, vulgar or shocking art. We have a simple process for artists applying to be in the gallery that involves screening for many aspects.

Q

ACLM: The revitalization of the Copper Basin area- meaning the twin towns of McCaysville, GA and Copperhill, TN- along with the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is bringing in more tourism which truly helps our local economy.

Additionally, the clear waters of the Toccoa/ Ocoee Rivers, our beautiful mountain scenery and the never-ending winding roads bring quite a diversity of visitors. How do you cater to such a wide variety of art lovers?

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A

LM: We have been very blessed to have incredibly gifted artists allow us the opportunity to represent their work. We offer more refined as well as primitive, whimsical and folk art style paintings. Our pottery is beautiful and unique for functional and personal use as well as for holidays, special occasion and thank you gifts. We also offer hand crafted jewelry, stained glass, copper wire trees, photography, wonderful sculptures and other unique art.

Q

ACLM: And what about our full and part-time cabin owners? What does Fat Raccoon have to offer them? I’m thinking home décor, birthday and holiday gifts for family and friends? What else?

A

LM: Fat Raccoon has helped many of our local home and cabin owners make selections for wedding gifts, thank you gifts, holiday gifts as well as painting and pottery items which fit into their home and style perfectly!

Q

ACLM: I also see that you have recently added local honey to your repertoire? Tell us how that came about? It looks truly delicious.

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A

LM: We live about 12-15 minutes from the gallery on our small farm named Sweet Wildflower Farm. We planted multiple varieties of fruit in the orchard on our property. Our neighbor also has a small farm next door to ours and he is a beekeeper. The bees visit us regularly and pollinate our orchard as well as our grape vines. The honey is very local, unprocessed and delicious!

For more information: Fat Raccoon Gallery 121 Ocoee Street Copperhill, TN 37317 423. 548. 0000 fatraccoonart@gmail.com Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Fat-Raccoon-Gallery

Q

ACLM: Lori, it has been so much fun chatting with you about Fat Raccoon Gallery. It’s really a gem here in the Copper Basin. Is there anything you’d like to add in closing?

A

LM: We appreciate that we have been embraced by so many in our community in the Basin as well as surrounding areas. We have pleasantly surprised many people who have visited our store simply for the name Fat Raccoon Gallery. What they have mentioned in person and in comments online are “the gallery is fresh,” “the people are friendly,” “wonderful local art,” and “we will tell people to come.”

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IT’S FALL FESTIVAL TIME! ROUND-UP THE KIDS AND HEAD FOR THE HILLS

Welcome to the most complete list of festivals, fairs, and events in north Georgia!

There’s surely more to do this fall than humanly possible, and we’re certain there’s something here for everyone.

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 has to offer this fall season!

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Gilmer County Fair August 6 – 11, 2019

Ellijay, GA. Old Time County Fair - Stop by & enjoy seeing old-time household items & farm implements exhibit. The Gilmer County Fair offers entertainment for the whole family including Peachtree Rides, live entertainment, and an exhibition featuring: Quilts, Agriculture, Crafts, Food, Canning, Baking, Sewing, Needlework, Art, Flowers, Photography, and more. 6pm – 11pm.

Gate Admission is $3 Adults, $2 Students, Free 6 and under. Bring a pair of eyeglasses, a hearing aid, or a cell phone for $1 off admission. (one per person) NO PETS PLEASE! Ride admission is $20 Armband Aug 6, 7, and $23 Aug 9, 10,11.

Individual ride tickets available. At the Ellijay Lions Club Fairgrounds, 1729 South Main Street, Ellijay, GA 30540. For info visit http://www.ellijaylionsclub. com/ or call 706 635 5900.

Mountain Wine Country Festival August 10, 2019

Young Harris, GA. Hidden away in the Southern Appalachians, straddling the border between Georgia and North Carolina, lies one of the nation’s newest American Viticultural Areas, Upper Hiwassee Highlands encompasses 690 square miles of pristine mountain scenery. Nestled among the rivers and mountain coves are small family vineyards, each producing distinctive wines that

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

reflect the unique mountain terroir. $25 includes up to 4 different tastings at each participating winery’s booth, a stemless festival tasting glass, and access to festival vendors & music from 11am-6pm. Crane Creek Vineyards 916 Crane Creek Road Young Harris, GA 30582. http://www. cranecreekvineyards.com or 706-379-1236

19th Annual Pigs & Peaches BBQ Festival August 23-24, 2019

Kennesaw, GA. The festival features a Kansas City Barbeque Society sanctioned competition, recognized as a Georgia State Championship event, as well as Backyard BBQ, Anything Butt, Peach Dessert contests and a Kids’ Que cook-off.

Over $10,000 in cash and prizes will be awarded to contest winners. Shop, eat, drink and interact with over 200 vendors and exhibitors. Keep the little ones laughing and playing for hours in the Kid Zone — a family-friendly playground of inflatable jumpers, amusements and attractions.

Free concerts every night. Fireworks Sat. night.

Friday 6-10pm, Saturday 10am-10pm. Kennesaw’s Adams Park, 2753 Watts Drive in Kennesaw, GA. (770) 422-9714 or www.pigsandpeaches.com

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

2nd Annual Mercier’s Hard Cider & Beer Festival August 24, 2019

Blue Ridge, GA. Beautiful outdoor setting! Tastings, Live Music and Food Vendors. Free tasting samples from all vendors. Enjoy: 16 oz souvenir cup, Three live bands, Two (16 oz) drink tickets (additional tickets available for purchase), Free games like corn hole, extreme beer pong, and more! 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Tickets available at EventBrite. Mercier Orchards, 8660 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513. For info visit http://www.mercierorchards.com or call 706-632-3411.

Cartecay Vineyards Crush Festival August 24 & 25 2019

Ellijay, GA. Join the fun in our vineyard! Grape Stomping, Tastings and Cartecay Vineyards’ Logo Wine Glass. Food and Arts/Crafts Vendors on Site.

Saturday: 11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Sunday: 1:00– 5:30 p.m. Live Music both days! Cost: $20.00 Pre-Sale, $25.00 Day of Event. Free parking! Pet friendly! Cartecay Vineyards, 5704 Clear Creek Road, Ellijay, GA 30536. For info visit www. cartecayvineyards.com or call 706-698-9463.

Sherriff’s Jeep Fest August 29- September 1, 2019

Jasper, GA. Gathering together Jeep enthusiasts from all over this great nation to help provide a place to live, food, clothing, supplies, love and anything else a child might need to prosper, while sharing a love for off-road. Enjoy 3 Days of Family Friendly Fun, jeep trails & obstacles, Pig Pen Family Mud Park, live music & much more. 60 Miles North of Atlanta: 8795 Hwy 53 East Jasper, GA 30143.

Registration open now! For more information please contact the Pickens County Sherriff’s Office.

Contact Information: 706-253-8900 or visit www. sheriffsjeepfest.com

48th Annual Oktoberfest September 5 - 26 & October 1 – 27, 2019

Helen Festhalle, Helen, GA . Admission $8.00 Monday-Friday. $10.00 on Saturdays and FREE on Sundays. Weekdays 6:00 p.m.-10:30 p.m., Friday 6:00 p.m.-12:00 p.m., Saturday 1:00 p.m.-12:00 a.m., Sunday 1:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. Beer, brats, bands and lederhosen—the Helen Oktoberfest is the longest running Oktoberfest in the United States. Every year the Helen Festhalle hosts the event. German-style bands from around the country and around the world play on the stage for your listening and viewing pleasure. Dogs welcome in the Beir Garden! Contact Information: 706-8781908 or www.helenchamber.com.

Dahlonega Trail Fest September 6 – 8, 2019

Dahlonega, GA. Celebrate Dahlonega’s designation as an AT Trail Community and our connection with the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. Trail Fest, a project of Yahoola Outdoors (Yahoola Trails Conservancy), is a festival of outdoor enthusiasts revolving around all aspects of non-motorized recreation: hiking, backpacking, canoeing, kayaking, horseback riding, mountain biking, orienteeering, and more! The festival features authors, speakers, workshops, music, food, vendors, and non-profit groups. Visit http://www. dahlonegatrailfest.org/ AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

7th Annual Dailey & Vincent LandFest in the Mountains September 12 – 14, 2019

GA Mountain Fairgrounds, Hiawasse, GA. Dailey & Vincent LandFest in the Mountains will offer festival goers live music, camping, comedy, and down-home fun for all ages, making for an experience that’s sure to be an unforgettable weekend. The music portion of the festival will be held inside the air-conditioned 2,900 seat Anderson Music Hall at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, and the venue boasts sprawling grounds with two playgrounds, a boat ramp, two tennis courts, playing courts, paved and shaded picnic areas, and splendid nature walking trails, all along beautiful Lake Chatuge. For tickets contact GEORGIA MOUNTAIN FAIRGROUNDS, 1311 Music Hall Road, P.O. Box 444, Hiawassee, GA 30546 or www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com or call (706) 896-4191. For more info visit http://www. daileyvincentfest.com/

Mountain Music Day Festival September 14, 2019

Vogel State Park, Blairsville, GA. Join us for an amazing day of Bluegrass & Gospel music here at the park. Along with a full lineup of incredible music, there will also be local crafters that will be selling their handmade items. Feeling hungry? The Vogel Volunteers will be selling mouthwatering food that you will surely cure your hunger. We look forward to seeing you here. $5 parking. Vogel State Park, 405 Vogel State Park Road, Blairsville, GA 30512 Located 11 miles south of Blairsville via U.S. Hwy. 19/129. For info call 706-745-2628 or visit http://georgiastateparks.org/vogel.

NGMA Giro d’ Georgia Italian Road Bike Festival September 15, 2019

Talking Rock, GA. Starting at Chateau Meichtry Family Vineyard & Winery located in Gilmer county - we look forward to riding with you in the beautiful scenic rolling hills and mountains of North Georgia.

Ride a choice of a challenging metric century with 6,889ft of climbing or a recreational 25mile route. Fully supported with well marked roads, Sag Stops and Sag Wagon. Kick back and enjoy the spectacular ambience at Chateau Meichtry after the ride with a glass of wine, live music and a “Farm to Table” lunch, prepared by a special food truck brought in for this event. Chateau Meichtry Family Vineyard & Winery, 1862 Orchard Lane, Talking Rock, GA 30175. For info: https:// northgeorgiamountainbikeassociation.org/

9th Annual Blue Ridge Blues & BBQ Music Festival September 20 - 21, 2019

Blue Ridge, GA. Downtown Blue Ridge sets the stage as a fantastic back drop and venue location for a perfect early fall event. The leaves start to change with cooler days and crisp evenings that invite outdoor activities! The sounds of Blues music and the sweet smell of BBQ from local and regional cookers will fill the air as families and groups of friends enjoy this unique setting and event.

Featuring Garrett Collins with Harp legend Bennie Mobley who recently won the Big Bend Blues Society’s Southeastern Harmonica Championship.

Saturday from 12 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Event is $5.00

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

with children 12 and under free. Lots of great BBQ and craft beer available on site. Special section full of fun stuff for the kids to do. No coolers are allowed, be sure to bring a blanket or chair, no umbrellas. No pets are allowed. See website for information regarding service animals. Be sure to check out the Blues Crawl the night before, Friday, September 20th as well as the Blues Train.

Sponsored by the Blue Ridge Lodging Association.

Contact: info@blueridgelodgingassociation.com. Or visit www.blueridgebluesandbbq.com

9th Annual Cherokee Heritage Festival September 21, 2019

Hayesville, NC. Traditional dancing, cultural arts demonstrations, storytelling, frybread, singing, and flute music during this free festival at the outdoor 17th century Cherokee Homestead Exhibit, one of five attractions along a 2-mile Cherokee History Trail in Hayesville. Featured Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians include World Champion Hoop dancer Eddie Swimmer, award-winning 96 year-old potter Amanda Swimmer, nationally recognized artisan and storyteller Davy Arch and the Oconaluftee Village dancers and artisans from Cherokee, NC. Children will enjoy craft activities, practicing blowgun techniques and a scavenger hunt. Adults will enjoy plant walks through Native Botanical Gardens, led by Hiwassee River Watershed Coalition staff. The “Old Jail” Museum will be open throughout the event. Free admission, parking and shuttle bus. 10:00am 3:00pm. Cherokee Homestead Exhibit, 805 Hwy 64 Business, Hayesville, NC 28904. Inf:, call 828389-3045 or visit www.ccra-nc.org. Sponsored by: Clay County Communities Revitalization Association.

Art Festival at Rose Lawn September 21- 22, 2019

Rose Lawn, Cartersville, GA. The annual art festival, held on the grounds at Rose Lawn, features the works of artists from across the Southeast. Fine art and Heritage Craft exhibits include oils, watercolors, and pastels, sculptures in wood, brass, and glass, and many other unique hand-crafted items. The house will be open for guided tours. Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday Noon - 5 p.m. Free Admission. Information: 770-387-5162. Visit www.roselawnmuseum.com

Tri-State Model Railroaders Annual Ride the Rails Festival September 28 – 29, 2019

Mineral Bluff, GA. A 5 mile round trip by railroad motor car traveling through the Iron Bridge over the beautiful Toccoa River, then returning over the bridge back to the beautiful and historic Mineral Bluff Depot. Then take a ride on the genuine Railroad Hand Car! Motor Car Rides: Donation $11.00 for Adults, $6.00 for Children 2-12. Hand Pump Car Rides, $2.00 per person per round trip.

A fun day for all! Both days: 10am – 3pm. Mineral Bluff Historic Depot, 150 Railroad Avenue (Hwy 60 northbound, Railroad avenue is next street on your left after the 4 way stop sign at Spur 60), Mineral Bluff, GA 30559. For more information call 706-455-8903 or visit http://www.tsmri.org.

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THE 47TH ANNUAL

Saturday Sept. 28th & Sunday Sept. 29th 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. River Street Market 518 River Street in Downtown Ellijay

October 12-13 & 19–202019

Like an Old Mountain Shindig Celebrating the Traditions of Southern Appalachia. Free!

Juried Folk Art Show • Live Music • Storytelling Facebook “f ” Logo

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facebook.com/dancinggoatsfolkfest dancinggoatsfolkfest@gmail.com

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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

Fall Arts on the Great Lawn September 21 & 22, 2019

Gibbs Gardens, Ball Ground, GA. For two days visitors will have a unique opportunity to stroll through 220 acres of spectacular gardens and attend this Art Festival in North Georgia. At the 2019 Art & Craft Festival artists and artisans will be presenting their original arts and crafts for sale.

Categories include: 2-D Mixed Media, 3-D Mixed Media, Clay, Drawing, Fiber/Leather, Glass, Metal, Painting-Oil/Acrylic, Painting-Watercolor/Pastel, Photography, Sculpture, Wood and Jewelry. The Market includes vendors selling organic soaps, artisanal jams, fresh produce, honey and essential oils. RAIN OR SHINE. Specialty foods will be available to purchase & enjoy. $10. Gibbs Gardens, 1987 Gibbs Drive, Ball Ground, GA 30107. Info: 770-893-1881, info@gibbsgardens.com or visit www.gibbsgardens.com

3rd Annual Dancing Goat FolkFest September 28 - 29, 2019

Ellijay, GA. Harkening back to the old mountain shindigs and a sharing of traditional art, music and oral traditions. The juried folk art show will present the work of untrained artists, known and new. The music will be local and the storytelling will recall the old mountain tales. FREE! 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. River Street Market, 515 River St. Downtown Ellijay, GA. For information email: dancinggoatsfolkfest@gmail.com or see facebook. com/dancinggoatsfolkfest.

35th Annual Riverfest Arts & Crafts Festival September 28 - 39, 2019

Etowah River Park, Canton, GA. The Riverfest Arts and Crafts Festival, along the banks of the Etowah River, is the historic cornerstone of the Service League’s fundraising efforts. Now in its 35th year, the festival has earned a notable reputation for its family-oriented approach and warm relationship with its vendors. Riverfest is a juried show, featuring original, creative, handmade work from artisans all over the region. The event showcases incredible entertainment - live music and dancing - as well as a fun-filled children’s area where children of all ages can participate in kid-friendly rides and activities. Sat. 10am -6pm, Sun. 10am – 5pm. $5 admission. Proceeds benefit the needy children of Cherokee County. Etowah River Park, 600 Brown Industrial Parkway, Canton, GA. Contact Information: 770-704-5991 or www.serviceleague. net/riverfest-1

Cumming Country Fair & Festival October 3 - 13, 2019

Foxfire Mountaineer Festival October 5, 2019

Clayton, GA. The Foxfire Mountaineer Festival is a one-day celebration of the rich heritage of the Southern Appalachian Mountains, featuring traditional music from regional performers, showcases and demonstrations of time-honored heritage skills and trades, and all manner of traditional games and puzzles for young and old alike. Outdoor field events will give visitors to see how you would fare in the mountains of old, with physical and mental challenges from the past: with contests like wood-chopping and log-sawing, archery and greased-pig chases, and schoolyard fun like three-legged relays and sack races.

The Festival also honors the people of Southern Appalachia, represented at the event by the some of the kind folks who have shared their lives and experiences with Foxfire students since 1966.

Admission is $5 per person with children 5 and under free. All proceeds go to The Foxfire Fund, Inc. Raybun County Civic Center, 201 West Savannah Street, Clayton, GA. Contact Information: 706-7465828 or www.foxfirefund.org/festival.html

Georgia Marble Festival Egg Fest October 5, 2019

Jasper, GA. First, second and third place prizes.

Corporate Teams- $500; Individual Teams- $250.

Tasting tickets $20. Located at Lee Newton Memorial Park, 500 Stegall Drive, Jasper, Georgia 30143. For more information please visit: georgiamarblefestival.com. Contact Information: 706-692-5600.

39th Annual Georgia Marble Festival October 5 - 6, 2019

Jasper, GA. Come Celebrate: The Marble Valley of Pickens County celebrate the history of Georgia Marble. A full weekend of activities begins with the Marble Festival 5K Run/Walk Road Race Saturday morning. The 5K starts at 8 a.m. followed by the 1 mile RFun Run at 9 a.m. To register, visit jasperumc.org. Then, catch the festival parade down Main Street at 10 a.m. Participate in the guided tours of the marble industry and structures. Enjoy arts, crafts, demonstrations, marble carving and children’s activities throughout the festival grounds. Enjoy lots of great food while appreciating a vast array of weekend-long entertainment. Saturday 10:00 a.m.- 6:00 p.m., Sunday 10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. Located at Lee Newton Memorial Park, 500 Stegall Drive, Jasper, Georgia 30143. For more information please visit: georgiamarblefestival.com. Contact Information: 706-692-5600.

Cumming, GA. An affordable family outing providing entertainment around every corner. Free daily attractions, free concerts, discount days and free-living history exhibits in the Heritage and Indian Villages. K-9s in Flight, Lady Houdini, Human Cannonball, Atlanta Puppet Show, Petting Zoo, Chainsaw Carving & Auction, Carnival Midway, and much more! Hours: Monday - Thursday 4:00 p.m.10:00 p.m.; Friday 4:00 p.m.- Midnight; Saturday 10:00 am - Midnight; Sunday 12:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. No pets, alcohol or coolers. Cash only, ATM on site. Parking $5. Admission $7- cash. Cumming Fair Grounds, 235 Castleberry Rd., Cumming, GA 30040. Info: 770-781-3491, www.cummingfair.net

45th Annual John C. Campbell Folk School Fall Festival October 5 - 6, 2019

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Brasstown, NC. This treasured annual celebration of Appalachian culture, held on the Folk School’s Brasstown, North Carolina campus. Over 200 fine craft exhibitors tucked along the school’s winding wooded paths. Artisans demonstrate traditional and contemporary crafts. Bluegrass, gospel, folk, and Celtic music on both days. Clogging, Morris, and Garland dance performances throughout the weekend. Pony rides, petting the alpacas, and visiting the animals at the Humane Society’s pet adoption booth. Local non-profit vendors will offer

tasty foods. Please bring cash, no ATM on site.

10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Adults $5; Ages 12-17, $3; under 12, free. John C. Campbell Folk School, One Folk School Road, Brasstown, NC 28902. 1-800.FOLK. SCH (365.5724) or https://folkschool.org

“The Valley Above the Clouds” Indian Summer Festival October 5 - 6, 2019

On the grounds of Woody Gap School, Georgia’s smallest public school, on GA Hwy. 60, between Dahlonega and Blue Ridge. Car show, crafts, music and dance performances, and family activities.

Saturday, the Run Above the Clouds 10K and a one-mile run will begin at 9 a.m. A Country Square Dance with a live band at 8 p.m. in the school gym. Advance dance tickets are $6; $8 at the door.

Enjoy performances by elementary students of Woody Gap School, the crowning of the King and Queen, clogging, an auction, Mountain Rangers hand-to-hand combat demonstration, mountain music, and an archery demonstration. Food vendors will feature pork BBQ, hamburgers, hot dogs, funnel cakes, boiled peanuts, cotton candy, fried apple pies, homemade preserves and more.

Visit the crafts tents for a variety of handmade items. 9am-5pm. Contact Information: 706-7455789 or www.suches.com/festivalinfo.htm

Cherry Log Fall Festival October 5- 6; 12- 13 – 14; 19- 20, 2019

Cherry Log, GA. First 3 weekends each October, the community of Cherry Log celebrates the harvest with the Cherry Log Festival. Serving delicious homemade breakfast and lunch, offering arts and crafts, homemade cakes, pies and canned goods, bluegrass, gospel and country music. Great food and entertainment. Fun for the whole family!

Plenty of free parking. 9am – 5pm. Cherry Log Community Clubhouse, 341 Cherry Log Street, Cherry Log, Georgia 30522.

Barktoberfest October 6, 2019

Blue Ridge, GA. Come out to enjoy friendship, music, food, and beer at Grumpy Old Men Brewery in Blue Ridge. A 50/50 cash raffle and silent auction will be held to benefit Humane Society of Blue Ridge. Food truck on site. $25 includes commemorative glass & koozie, and 2 beer tokens.

Music by Daisy Chain. Dogs welcome! For info visit: www.humanesocietyofblueridge.org

Georgia Mountain Fall Festival October 11 - 19, 2019

Hiawassee, GA. With its mild temperatures and beautiful scenery there is no better place to be than the North Georgia Mountains in the fall. Each October, the 9-day event features carnival rides, exciting musical performances, Arts and Craft vendors, educational demonstrations, Pioneer Village, Old Ways demonstrations, a flower show, Daily pig races, and the ever-popular Georgia’s Official State Fiddlers’ Convention. Fall Festival: Daily 10am- 7pm, Sunday until 6pm. Admission is $12, 3-Day Pass $33, 9-Day Pass $90. Kids under 12- free. Free parking. Sorry no pets.

Georgia Mountain Fair Grounds, Hiawassee, GA. Contact Information: 706-896-4191 or www. georgiamountainfairgrounds.com

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9th Annual Blue Ridge Mountain Marching Band Festival October 12, 2019

Blue Ridge, GA. More than 2,000 marching band members from nearly 24 area high school bands are expected to participate. Bands will range in size from 40 members to more than 150 members.

Come for the day spend some time downtown at one of our art festivals. Beginning at 1 pm and continuing until 9:30 pm. Fannin County High School, 2346 East First St. Blue Ridge, GA 30513.

For information call Band Director, Scott Barnstead 706-633-8595 or visit www.fannincountyband.org

2019 Annual Fall Arts in the Park October 12 -13, 2019

Downtown City Park, Blue Ridge, GA. Join us for the Fall Arts in the Park festival held in the beautiful Downtown City Park of Blue Ridge, Georgia.

Festival is held rain or shine. Shop from a variety of artworks from over 150 juried fine arts and fine crafts exhibitors, enjoy tasty food, and engage in multiple artist demos and a free children’s activity booth. Pets are welcomed as long as they are leashed and well-behaved. Weekend Admission: adults $5; children under 12 free. All proceeds benefit the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, a 501c3 non-profit community arts association.

Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, 420 West Main Street, Blue Ridge GA 30513. For info: (706) 632- 2144, BlueRidgeArts@gmail.com or www. blueridgearts.net

48th Annual Georgia Apple Festival October 12-13 & 19-20, 2019

Ellijay, GA. Welcome to North Georgia! The Georgia Apple Festival brings two exciting weekends to Ellijay, Georgia every year with hundreds of vendors offering food, art, crafts, and more, as well visitors from all over. The Ellijay Lions Club, the Gilmer County Chamber of Commerce, the cities of Ellijay and East Ellijay, and Gilmer County invite everyone to come and enjoy the 48th year of the Georgia Apple Festival. There are over 300 vendors with handmade, handcrafted items, as well as many on-site demonstrations of how selected types of crafts are made. This year promises many new crafts as well as favorites from past festivals. The Apple Festival 5K & 1K is on Saturday October 12th at 8am and starts and ends at Ellijay Elementary School. The Apple Classic Auto Show (706-635-7400) is held at the Civic Center on Saturday October 12th. The Apple Festival Parade (706-635-7400) is Saturday October 19th and begins at 10 AM in historic downtown Ellijay.

Festival entrance fee is $5. Saturdays: 9am-6pm, Sundays: 9am-5pm.Ellijay Lions Club Fairgrounds, 1729 South Main Street, Ellijay, GA 30540. Visit www.georgiaapplefestival.org or: 706-636-4500

Blairsville Sorghum Festival October 12-13 and October 19-20, 2019

Meeks Park, Blairsville, GA. In the Blairsville Union County area of North Georgia, the Blairsville Sorghum Festival has been a part of Blairsville’s heritage for more than 40 years. Blairsville’s longest running festival celebrates the ancient art of cooking sweet syrup from Sorghum Cane. Visitors enjoy sorghum syrup making demonstrations in addition to contests such as “Biskit” Eatin’, Pole Climbin’, Log Sawin’, Rock 38

Throwin’, and Horseshoe Throwin’. Join us the 2nd & 3rd weekends in October. Parade reflects the Sorghum/Farming Theme and is on Saturday Oct 12th at 11am featuring cash prizes for floats!

Proceeds go scholarships for local students. Both weekends: Sat. 9am -5pm. With Square Dance at the Old Middle School Gym at 8pm. Sun. 9am – 5pm. Admission 13 and up $5. Free parking. For more information: www.sorghumfestivalblairsville. org or call 706-745-4745.

Owl O’Ween Hot Air Balloon Festival October 18 - 19, 2019

Kennesaw State University Sports & Rec Park, Kennesaw, GA. Atlanta’s ONLY Hot Air Balloon Festival and LARGEST Costume Party! The OwlO-Ween Hot Air Balloon Festival is a 2-evening family friendly event, featuring Amazing Balloon Glows, Trick-or-Treating, Tethered Balloon Rides, Oktoberfest Beer Garden, Seven Live Music Stages, Vendor Marketplace, Sports Bars, Artist Market, Amazing Food Trucks, Roving Entertainment, Interactive Kids Area, a Main Concert Stage, and more. Friday 6pm – 11pm. Saturday: 4pm – 11pm. KSU: 3200 George Busbee Parkway, NW, Kennesaw, GA 30188. Contact Information: http:// owl-o-ween.com/ or 470-578-4849.

Annual Paws in the Park October 19, 2019

Blue Ridge, GA. Mark your calendar and plan to come and enjoy a day with your favorite pet. Event includes parade, pet education and demonstrations, rabies clinic, micro-chipping, contests, prizes, photos with your pet, and much more!!! 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Sponsored by the Humane Society of Blue Ridge, Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association and Love Dogs and Cats Too. Parade starts at 10:00 am - From Kitties to Llamas this parade is not to miss! Join the Annual 5K Race & The Mutt Mile! Registration starts at 7:30 am - race begins at 8:30 am. Downtown Blue Ridge City Park. For more information call 706.

633. 3103 or www.humanesocietyofblueridge.org

Crane Creek Annual Harvest Festival October 19, 2019

Young Harris, GA. The Annual Crane Creek Vineyards Harvest Festival is a time to celebrate the end of another great harvest! Come celebrate with CCV staff with wine tastings, grape stomping, tours of the winery and live music! 11am-6pm.

Admission $20. Crane Creek Vineyards 916 Crane Creek Road Young Harris, GA 30582. www. cranecreekvineyards.com or 706-379-1236

Gibbs Gardens Brew Fest October 19, 2019

Ball Ground, GA. Gibbs Gardens will host 20 local and regional craft brewers who will offer samples of their brew. Wine service for purchase by the glass. Different food offerings, including snacks that “hit the spot” with beer, available for purchase. The Loose Shoes Band play throughout the afternoon. Vendors, who focus on celebrating north Georgia’s many backwoods and water activities, will share their products and offer advice. 11am – 4pm. Gibbs Gardens, 1987 Gibbs Drive, Ball Ground, GA 30107. Info: 770-893-1881, or visit www.gibbsgardens.com

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

25th Annual Talking Rock Heritage Days Festival October 19-20, 2019

Talking Rock, GA. During the Annual Heritage Days Festival, our little town will be filled with booths featuring a wide variety of arts, crafts and antiques. There will be interesting demonstrations for the young and old, Blue Grass and Southern Gospel Music and good food. Visit the restored 1877 Talking Rock Schoolhouse Teaching Museum, meet the Town Crier, relax with the kids in the park and have a great family day. 9am -5pm. FREE! Visit www.talkingrockga.com or call 706-2535515.

Gold Rush Days Festival October 19- 20, 2019

Dahlonega, GA. It is a time for thousands to come and see fall colors peaking and celebrate Dahlonega’s 1828 discovery of gold. Over 300 art and craft exhibitors and food vendors gather around the Public Square and Historic District in support of this annual event. It is estimated that a crowd of over 200,000 visit over the weekend to join in the fun and excitement! The Gold Rush Days Festival has been voted one of the Top 20 Events in the southeast by the Southeast Tourism Society.

Join us in downtown Dahlonega and you will see why! Contact: The Dahlonega Jaycees Email: info@ dahlonega.org Phone: 706-864-3513 or visit: https://goldrushdaysfestival.com

52nd Annual Moonshine Festival October 25-27, 2019

Dawsonville, GA. Parade of moonshine and revenue cars to kick off festivities at 9:00 Saturday morning. Great vendors – something for everyone.

Two stages with live entertainment around the square in downtown Dawsonville. Car Show, Cruise-In and Swap Meet held at the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame. Moonshine Run on Friday, October 25th, leaving the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame at approximately 10:00 AM, registration to begin at 9:00 AM. Meet many legendary racecar drivers. See Vintage Race Cars and more Authentic Moonshine-Hauling cars than you’ll ever see gathered in one place anywhere in the US! Sorry no pets allowed. Parking $10. Benefitting KARE for Kids, Inc. Visit www.kareforkids.org or (706) 216KARE (5273) or email at info@kareforkids.com

Annual Appalachian Craft Brew, Stew & Que Festival October 26, 2019

Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds- Hiawassee, GA. Fall will be in the air and what a great time for the “4th Annual Appalachian Craft Brew, Stew and Que Festival” featuring 20 breweries from Georgia & North Carolina. Live Americana, Folk, and Bluegrass music. Food vendors from local area restaurants. Regional arts & crafts vendors.

5:00 - 6:30: 3rd Annual Americana Jam Hosted

by Wyatt Espalin! Hiawassee is centrally located, just two hours from Atlanta, Asheville, Greenville and Chattanooga. Saturday 11am- 7pm. $40.00 at the Gate, $35.00 Online. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds - 1311 Music Rd.- Hiawassee, GA. Info: www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com or 706-896-4191.

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

Fall Festival at Vogel State Park October 26, 2019

Vogel State Park, Blairsville, GA. Celebrate autumn’s arrival with noon chili, hotdogs and drinks for sale. We will also have hayrides, a cake walk, and a campsite decorating contest.

8am – 4pm. Parking $5. Vogel State Park US Hwy 19/129S (11 miles south of Blairsville) Blairsville, GA. Visit www.gastateparks.org or call Vogel State Park @ 706-745-2628.

Annual HemlockFest November 1 – 3, 2019

Dahlonega, GA. HemlockFest is an unparalleled musical experience in a peaceful and beautiful setting. This all-ages, eco-friendly event features three days of live music, primitive camping, educational exhibits, arts and crafts vendors, a kid’s nature village, rustic living demonstrations, great food, and free canoeing. Both day and weekend passes are available, and admission is free for kids (ages 15 and under with a supervising adult ticketholder). Proceeds go to saving our GA Hemlocks! Starbridge Farm is located off Hwy 52E between Dahlonega and Cleveland. For more information call The Lumpkin Coalition 706-8649003, email lumpkincoalitioninfo@gmail.com or visit http://hemlockfest.org.

Japanese Maples Colorfest October 26 – November 22, 2018

Ball Ground, GA. Mother Natures canvas is the entertainment, view this wonderful work of art before it disappears until next year. 100’s of mid to late Japanese Maples (150 varieties) and Burning Bushes will come alive in brilliant shades of red, gold and yellow. Enjoy lunch from the Arbor Cafe under the tree canopy in the Arbor Grove. For a list of performances, cuisine, and activities that will take place during the Colorfest visit Gibbs Gardens, 1987 Gibbs Drive, Ball Ground, GA 30107. Info: 770-893-1881 or www.gibbsgardens.com

Mountain Country Christmas in Lights November 28 – December 29, 2019

Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds- Hiawassee, GA. A holiday treat for the entire family along the shores of beautiful Lake Chatuge. The fairground will be transformed into a spectacular and magical holiday light show, with caroling, art & craft vendors, holiday food, a visit and pictures with Santa, and of course hot chocolate and s’mores. New this year- the Eudora Animal Farms petting zoo and animal rides. 6pm -9pm: Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds - 1311 Music Rd.- Hiawassee, GA. Website: www. georgiamountainfairgrounds.com or 706-8964191.

Light Up Ellijay- Return to Whoville Date TBD 2019

Historic Downtown Ellijay. Return to Whoville and stop the Grinch from stealing Christmas!

Live music, craft vendors, and food from local restaurants on the square beginning at 4 p.m.

Lighted parade ushers in Santa Claus at 6 p.m.

Lighting of the tree immediately afterward. For more information visit www.gilmerchamber.com or call 706-635-7400

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

Blue Friday & Light Up Blue Ridge November 29 & 30, 2019

Blue Ridge, GA. Visit Historic Downtown Blue Ridge for the annual arrival of Santa and Lighting of the big tree. On Blue Friday merchants offer special deals. Strolling Christmas characters, food vendors, and entertainment. City-wide caroling starts at 6pm. Light Up Blue Ridge is all day Saturday. Holiday music will be played throughout the town from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Santa Clause arrives on the train around 11a.m. and will be in the downtown city park from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Christmas Parade with Santa starts at 5:30 p.m followed by the Lighting of the Great Tree at 7:00 p.m. For information email: cesarmart2@ icloud.com or visit http://lightupblueridge.info/

Light Up the Basin Date TBD 2019

McCaysville, GA – Copperhill, TN. Bring the family out this Friday night December 1st at 6 pm for the city of McCaysville Christmas Tree lighting.

Sponsored by Tri-State Electric and The City of McCaysville. Live Holiday Music and Hot cocoa and cookies for donations to Christmas for Kids.

Located between the McCaysville Post office and City Hall, music starts at 5:45 with tree lighting at 6 pm. Contact: Tri Cities Business Association, Phone: 423-443-1636, Email: TriCitiesBA@gmail. com or visit: http://www.greatercopperbasin.com/

Santa Pavilion Night Train November 28 – December 29, 2019

Blue Ridge, GA. This 1-hour Santa Express is your chance to ride with the jolly old elf himself. Your family will hear a Christmas story, hear Christmas songs, meet Christmas characters, and of course, visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus as they make their way through the train. There will be plenty of chances to snap the perfect picture, so don’t forget your camera. Every child will receive our traditional Christmas bell, a candy cane from Mrs. Claus, and a memory they won’t soon forget!Reservations are strongly encouraged. For tickets and info: Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad, www.brscenic.com or call 706-632-8724.

Towns County Sheriff Empty Stocking Fund Parade November 30, 2019 Hiawasee, GA. 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM EST

Holiday on the Square & Christmas Parade December 7, 2019

Blairsville, GA. The first Saturday in December signals the gathering of residents and visitors to Downtown Blairsville for our annual Christmas Parade and holiday activities. Christmas concerts are also performed throughout the month at the Historic Courthouse. Parade at 4pm.

Visit www.unioncountyhistory.org for more info or call 877. 745.5789

We recommend checking the details of events before making travel plans as dates and times are subject to change.

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Woodcrafter’s Heritage Straddling the bench, While hunched over the wood, The woodcrafter works long.

Then stopping to rest, He adjusts his overall straps, All the time, whistling a song.

Woodworking, his livelihood, A fine artistry learned well, A family craft passed down, From his great-grandfather, Who settled in these mountains; Skill passed on from father to son.

The woodcrafter squints at the sun Shining through open, unlatched door And smiles at a customer, Who comes to purchase a cradle To welcome a first grandchild; A smile lights the face of the woodcrafter.

His overall pockets serve as a register, He makes change from the bills, “Bless you—and the grandbaby,” he says, then returns to his wood and whistling, Glad that his labor can make a child’s first bed; Rewarding labor, gifted heritage.

by betty kossick Artist in Residence WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.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. Local chefs and individuals make their special dishes. 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 If interested in joining the group, 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, hat, sunscreen, and bug spray.

All media and skill levels. www.artworksgalleryga.com 7/6 – 9/28 AIR 3rd Qtr – Brenda Pinnick Blue Ridge, GA. As a lover of color, representational artist, Brenda Pinnick, uses subtle shifts in color temperature and saturation to communicate her beautiful, artistic visions onto canvas. She paints en plein air, exploring shapes, lines, color, value and depth to create visually stunning versions of what her artistic eye sees.

Opening reception is July 27, 5-7pm. Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, 420 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Registration & Info: 706-632-2144 or https:// www.blueridgearts.net

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8/9 thru 9/12 Annual Juried Photography Exhibition Ellijay, GA.Photographers from across the region are featured in the display of fine photographic art. The reception in celebration of these talented artists will be held on opening night when you will be able to meet the artists, and enjoy the company of other supporters of the arts community and Gilmer Arts. The exhibition runs through September 12.

Gilmer Arts. Business hours are M-F 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Gilmer Arts, 207 Dalton Street, Ellijay, GA 30540. For info: 706-635-5605 or www. gilmerarts.com 8/17 thru 9/20 Annual Gilmer Arts Member Artists Exhibition and Reception Ellijay, GA. he Gilmer Arts Gallery hosts an exhibition featuring the artwork of our member artists. Join us for the Annual Gilmer Arts Membership Reception 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Friday, August 17, 2019. The exhibition runs through September 20, 2019 at Gilmer Arts. Business hours are M-F 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Gilmer Arts, 207 Dalton Street, Ellijay, GA 30540. For info: 706-635-5605 or www. gilmerarts.com 7/27 – 8/25 9th Annual 3D Off the Wall Exhibit Blue Ridge, GA. Takes the works off the gallery walls and lets you see the beauty of three-dimensional works. This exhibit is open to all three-dimensional artists of all genres only. Opening reception July 27th from 5 – 7 pm. For info visit www.blueridgearts.net or BlueRidgeArts@gmail.com or call 706-632-2144.

7/27 thru 8/25 National Juried Photography Show Blue Ridge, GA. Open to all photographers, both amateur and professional, and all original photographic media, including film and digital

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

NORTH GEORGIA'S GUIDE TO AREA

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

images. Monetary prizes totaling $3,000.Gallery open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, 420 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Registration & Info: 706-632-2144 or www.blueridgearts.net 8/3 3rd Annual Rocku Knob Hammer-In Come out and learn how to hammer forge a blank piece of steel in to a work of art. Local artisans will be on site to teach and allow you to participate in the making of a keepsake. Please bring eye protection and gloves. No charge for the event. Soda, Hotdogs and Hamburgers will be available for a small fee. 9am -5pm.

Crawford’s Campground 87 Horton Rd Murphy NC. 28906.

Info: http://crawfordscg.com/ special-events.html 8/31 thru 9/28 The Art of Dylan Pierce Blue Ridge, GA. From the age of 12, this talented artist has participated in numerous group and solo exhibitions around the country. Dylan will fill our Richard Low Evans Gallery with beautiful watercolor paintings that capture the soul of his subjects, the delicate beauty of animals, and all the varied wonders that continue to inspire him.

Opening reception is August 31, 5-7pm. Gallery open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, 420 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Registration & Info: 706-632-2144 or www.blueridgearts.net 9/5 – 9/8 Plein Air International Paint Out Blue Ridge, GA. Fannin County provides the perfect setting for nature and art to come together during our 2019 Plein Air International Paint Out Event. This 4 day event provides a multitude of opportunities to capture the spirit of plein air and the inherent natural beauty of our area.

Artists from all over the country travel to our community to

enjoy the county-wide paint outs, take part in a workshop, sign up for a quick draw event and silent auction, and enjoy networking with fellow plein air artists. Prizes totaling $1,000 will be awarded to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners.

This year’s judge will be plein air artist Ed Cahill. Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, 420 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Registration & Info: 706-632-2144 or www.blueridgearts.net 9/10 thru 10/13 Plein Air International Paint Out Exhibit Blue Ridge, GA. A spectacular exhibit filled with images from local scenery and landscapes painted during our 2019 Plein Air International Paint Out. Gallery open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, 420 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513.

Registration & Info: 706-6322144 or blueridgearts.net

EVENTS First Thursdays Shop Late Blairsville!

Participating Downtown Blairsville businesses will be open additional hours from 5pm - 8pm and will feature deals, discounts and other exciting offers! So avoid the crowds on the weekends and come spend some time in Downtown Blairsville. Just look for a red balloon and you’ll find a business that’s happy to serve you! 5 – 8pm.

First Fridays Downtown Canton, GA. First Friday, May through October, Historic Downtown Canton.

Live music, car shows, food trucks and local shopping.

6-9pm. https://www.cantonga.gov/visit/mainstreet/ first_fridays.htm.

4th Fridays March through September.

Georgia Mountain Classics Cruise Ins Blue Ridge, GA. Great fun for the whole family. Free event but you’ll want to at least

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

buy one of their great desserts! Free registration if you want to bring your classic car and you get a $4.00 off DQ Certificate when you register.

6pm – 8pm. Dairy Queen 380 Progress Circle Blue Ridge, GA. georgiamountainclassics@hotmail.com Thru 9/6 8th Annual Stand Up for Stand Down Toiletry Drive Various Locations. Northside Hospital Cancer Institute collects much-needed toiletry and personal care items to fill “comfort bags” for veterans who attend Stand Down events throughout North and Central Georgia. Travel/ sample-size toiletry and personal care items are needed.

Donations can be dropped off at any of the 26 Georgia Cancer Specialists locations.

For drop off locations: www. gacancer.com or www.facebook.com/SU4SD, for info or to volunteer: 770-864-5347.

8/2 Let’s Get Growing Lecture Series Hiawassee, GA. Please join us and learn more about managing wildlife and your garden.

Lecture begins 11 am and will be held at the Paris Pavilion at Hamilton Gardens. The lecture will be given by Jacob Williams, Extension Agent for Towns/Union counties. For info: https://hamiltongardens. org, info@hamiltongardens. org or 706-979-0011.

8/10 Lessons from a Black Bear: Myths and Relationships Brasstown Bald Recreation Center, Brasstown, GA. Tom Hennigan, organism biology professor and ambassador for the North American Bear Center explores the use of trust not tranquilizers in bear research. Parking $5 per adult, 15 & under are free.

11am -Noon. America the Beautiful passes are accepted.

Space is limited. Registration: (706) 896-4966 or toll free 1 (800) 984-1543.

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

AC LIVING CALENDAR 8/13 thru 9/13 CASA Volunteer Training Ellijay, GA. Join us for CASA Volunteer training beginning Tuesday, August 13th. Training will be every Tuesday and Friday from 9:00 am - 1:00 pm. The training will take place in the CASA office located on the 2nd floor (Suite 201) of the Gilmer County Courthouse. The session ends on Friday, September 13th with a swearing in ceremony at 2:00 pm. Gilmer County Courthouse CASA Office Suite 201, Ellijay, GA. For info: https://appalachiancasa.com/ or Brian Copeland Recruitment & Engagement Specialist 706-276-2272.

8/16 Let’s Get Growing Lecture Series Hiawassee, GA. Please join us and learn more about mushrooms. Lecture begins 11 am and will be held at the Paris Pavilion at Hamilton Gardens.

The lecture will be given

by Anne Mitchell, a master naturalist. For info: https:// hamiltongardens.org, info@ hamiltongardens.org or 706979-0011.

8/16 & 8/17 23rd Annual Blue Ridge Kiwanis Championship Rodeo Blue Ridge, GA. Western rodeo event with bull riding, saddle bronc riding, calf roping, bareback, steer wrestling, team roping, barrel racing and special events. Food and fun for all, 8 p.m. Gates open early.

Advance tickets on sale July 30th. FREE parking shuttle is from Fannin County Middle School. Kiwanis Fairgrounds, Blue Ridge: Jones Street off of E. 2nd Street. 706-632-6644, info@blueridgerodeo.com or www.blueridgerodeo.com 8/17 Fall Gardening Seminar Woodstock, GA. Cherokee County Master Gardener’s present a seminar on Fall Vegetable Gardening. Learn how to extend the garden growing season up to the holidays. Free! 10:30 am – 12:00 pm. Rose Creek Library, 4476 Towne Lake Parkway, Woodstock, GA. For info: 678520-5458.

in the sky. Join in for a geology and natural communities walk n’ talk with Geologist Dr. Bill Witherspoon, co-author of Roadside Geology of Georgia and bio-geographer Dr. Leslie Edwards, co-author of Natural Communities of Georgia.

Parking $5 per adult, 15 & under are free. 11am -Noon.

America the Beautiful passes are accepted. Space is limited.

Registration: (706) 896-4966 or toll free 1 (800) 984-1543.

8/24 Taste of the Mountains in Blairsville Blairsville, GA. Food lovers of all ages are invited to enjoy the variety of food and drink from the regional restaurants.

Sample locally produced wine, beer & spirits. This family friendly event features live music, cooking demonstrations, and good old-fashioned Southern Charm. 4pm – 7pm.

For info: 706-347-3503 or blairsvillefoodfest.com 9/7 – 9/8 Rust & Roses Vintage Market Days Young Harris, GA. Time for some junkin’ and treasure searching! The Rust & Roses Vintage Market Days will feature 100 vendors offering antiques, re-purposed, vintage apparel and jewelry, home decor, and hand-made items.

Saturday - 10:00am - 5:00pm, Sunday - 11:00am - 4:00pm. $5, children under 14 are free.

Towns County Recreation & Conference Center, 150 Foster Park Rd., Young Harris, GA 30582. Info: (706) 896-4966.

9/13 Trail of Tears Georgia Chapter Meeting Cartersville, GA. The Georgia Chapter of The Trail of Tears Association. Cherokee/Creek Relationship (Part 4) FREE! and open to the public. 10:30 am – 4 pm. Bartow History Museum, E Church Street, Cartersville, GA. Info: 918464-2258, nationaltota@ gmail.com or www.gatrailoftears.org.

8/21 Natural Heritage of Brasstown Bald Brasstown Bald Recreation Center, Brasstown, GA. Isolated by elevation, Brasstown Bald is an island

9/14 Murphy Tractor Supply Livestock/Poultry/ Homemade Good Sale Murphy, NC. Farm and animal swap the second Saturday of every month at Tractor Supply in Murphy. Also includes homeade goods. To be a vendor contact Rhatigan Farms on Facebook or call 706-897-7096. Vendor fee is

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

$10 Starts at 11 ends at 3.

Come support your small local farmers and crafters! Murphy Tractor Supply 340 West US 64 Murphy, NC. 9/14 Hard Hats and High Heels Blairsville, GA. Hard Hats and High Heels will be a sit-down dinner which will include a fundraiser, silent auction, and it will have a “Casino Night” theme. 5:30 - 9:30pm. For info: Bryan Thomas (706) 379-2484.

9/21 Long Table on Main Jasper, GA. Over 150 patrons will show their support for Prevent Child Abuse Pickens at the 7th annual fundraiser, ‘The Long Table on Main.’

Downtown Jasper. For info: 706-253- 6488 or http:// pcapickens.org/long-table 9/21 8th Annual Pet Celebration at Historic Hayesville Square Hayesville, NC. There will be demonstrations, live radio show, reduced cost pet vaccinations, Adopt-A-Pets, games, entertainment, music, pet parade/costume contest, vendors, silent auctions, great food/refreshments, weiner dog race and much more. All proceeds go to participating Humane Societies and Rescue Groups who really need your help! 8am to 2pm. For info: Lake Chatuge Animal Hospital (706-896-1244) Tri-County Animal Clinic (828837-0050) or Clay County Chamber of Commerce (828389-3704 or 877-389-3704).

10/3 thru 10/7 The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall Blue Ridge, GA. Welcome to The Traveling Wall Our Wall is a 3/5 scale of the Vietnam Memorial in Washington DC, it stands six feet tall at the center and covers almost 300 feet from end to end. This Traveling Memorial stands as a reminder of the great sacrifices made during the Vietnam War. Behind the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Bureau, 152 Orvin Lance Drive, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. For Info: 706-6325680 or http://www.travelingwall.us

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

FARMERS’ MARKETS Wednesdays Brasstown Shops, Brasstown, NC. Farmers’ Market in downtown Brasstown at the Brasstown Shops. Seasonal produce, local honey, eggs (as available) and plants. 10am – 1pm. Info: (828) 835-9413 Wednesdays and Saturdays Jasper, GA. Fresh & locally grown produce, handcrafted goods. Wed & Sat: 7:30 AM 12:00 PM. Lee Newton Park, Jasper, GA 30143.

Thursdays and Saturdays Potts Mountain Farmers’ Market Marble Hill, GA. Thursdays: 3pm until dark. Saturdays Noon – 4pm. 618 Steve Tate Highway, Marble Hill, GA. Saturdays Blue Ridge Farmers’ Market Downtown Blue Ridge, GA. In front of courthouse from 8am – noon-ish. Weather permitting. Local honey, baked goods, produce, handmade arts and crafts, hand crafted furniture and much more!

400 West Main Street , Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513. Email: blueridgefarmersmarket@ gmail.com Saturdays Ellijay Farmers’ Market Ellijay, GA. Shop the Market or Participate as a Vendor!

Sponsored by the Gilmer County Master Gardeners Farmer Market. 8am - 12pm.

1 Broad Street - Downtown Ellijay. Contact: 706.635.4426 Saturdays Union County Farmers Market Blairsville, GA. A local market with items from artisans, beekeepers, bakers, potters, painters, and lots of good things to eat. 7am – 2pm. Old Smokey Rd (next to the Home Depot) Blairsville, GA. Info: www.ucfarmersmarket.com, (706) 439-6043 or farmersmarket@uniongov.com Saturdays Murphy Farmers’ Market Murphy, NC. Featuring 100% locally sourced crafts and produce.Fresh veggies, fruits, livestock, bedding plants, native & landscaping plants, jams, jellies, goats milk & cheese, meats, chicken,

baked goods, honey, live music and much more. 9AM-1PM at the L&N Depot, Railroad St, Murphy, NC 28906. Info: woodlandsoaps@yahoo.com.

Saturdays Downtown Canton Farmers’ Market A farmers’ market promoting local farmers and artisans. All produce is Georgia grown and mostly organic. Cooking demonstrations, kid’s activities and music. 9am – 1pm. Rain or shine at Cannon Park.

Info: (770) 704-1500 or cantonhdl.com 8/10 & 8/24 Maker’s Market at Fannin Brewing Company Blue Ridge, GA. Join the Downtown Market as they set up at Fannin Brewing on selected Sundays during the summer. Shop locally handmade and homegrown items.

1pm – 6pm. Fannin Brewing Company, 3758 East First Street, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513. For info: 706-2582762 or www.fanninbrewingcompany.com

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/

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PRESENTS THE

Blue Ridge Homebuilders Showcase

YOUR NORTH GEORGIA LIVING CONNECTION

SATURDAY OCTOBER 5TH Builders Developers Energy Consultants Heating & Cooling Home Furnishings Mortgage Lenders Realtors

Stonework Windows & Doors Related Lifestyle Products for Your Mountain Paradise And More!

DOWNTOWN BLUE RIDGE CITY PARK 9AM – 5PM FREE ADMISSION Find us on Facebook/ Georgia High County Builders

Where Dreams Become Reality

For More Information Contact Sherry Morris 706.455.1039 br-showcase@georgiahighcountryba.com 42 WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

food, first aid items, rain gear, proper clothing and shoes, hiking sticks, and a small pack to carry your supplies. Visit website for calendar and availability: www.mountainhighhikers.org

8/10 Smokey Bear’s Birthday Party at Anna Ruby Falls Helen, GA. This year’s annual event will include a celebration of Smokey Bear’s August 9th birthday with a Smokey Bear appearance, cake, and fire prevention material handouts. Anna Ruby Falls Visitor Center 3455 Anna Ruby Falls Rd. Helen, GA 30545.

For info: www.facebook.com/ events/926071774265561 or www.fs.usda.gov/conf

OUTDOORS Mondays Garden Tours Blairsville, GA. Come learn about how our ancestors and native Americans used plants for food, fiber and medicine.

Find out how “weeds” may provide homes to valuable pollinators.Tours tailored to fit your interests are provided by our fabulous garden guides in a beautiful setting. Free! No pets. The Georgia Mountain Research & Education Center is located 3 miles south of the Blairsville Square, on the east side of Hwy 19/129. For info: Clare Johnston at 706-7452655 or http://gmrec.uga. edu/commcouncil/preserve. html#mondaygardentours Second Saturday Every Month Benton MacKaye Trail (BMT) needs volunteers to work on the trail. Something for everyone from cutting back weeds and painting blazes on trees and more. For more information, contact Phil Guhl at pguhl AT guhlspace. com or 770-548-5590 2X Weekly Mountain High Hikers Before hiking with the Mountain High Hikers, please carefully read the Hiking Guidelines on the website and come prepared with water, AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

8/16 Benton McKaye Trail Association Hike Fort Mountain hiking medley – Stone Wall, Tower and Overlook Trail, and Lake Trail loop. 3 miles, easy to moderate. State parking pass or $5 parking fee. Contact hike leader Larry Dumas at ledumas@hotmail. com. www.bmta.org 8/19 Benton McKaye Trail Association Hike Amadahy Trail. DOG-FRIENDLY HIKE (adult humans may bring a leashed dog). 5 miles, easy to moderate along the shore of Carter’s Lake. Lunch at the marine campground. Contact hike leader Ken Cissna at kcissna@usf.edu 8/24 Dash to the Vineyard Young Harris, GA. Walk or run 2.5 KM out and 2.5 KM back to the finish line at beautiful Crane Creek Vineyards. With gently sloping hills, this course is beginner to intermediate.

Following the race, participants will receive a wine tasting at Crane Creek (included in admission), sit back, recoup, and enjoy gorgeous mountain vineyard views. A portion of the proceeds go to the Towns County Sherriff’s Department. $30. Online registration: https://dashtothevineyard5k. itsyourrace.com 8/26 North Metro Lions Golf Classic Canton, GA. Foursome — $400; Individual Player — $110. 10am. BridgeMill Athletic Club, 1190 Bridge Mill Ave, Canton, GA 30114. For info: https://atlggopi.wixsite. com/golf 9/9 Benton McKaye Trail Association Hike Stanley Gap Trail from Deep Gap Parking on Aska Road to Fall Branch Falls. 5.5 miles, moderate. Short Shuttle.

Contact hike leader Evelin Yarns at eyarns@sprynet.com

9/13 – 9/15 Ocoee River Championships Copperhill, TN. The Ocoee River Championships (ORC) bring annual whitewater competition back to Ocoee Whitewater Center, a world class Olympic venue, for the first time in almost two decades. This three-day whitewater event on September 13 - 15, 2019 will provide live music, regional vendors, and competitions including downriver racing (raft, SUP, canoe, and kayak), slalom racing, freestyle, and squirt boat categories. 9am – 2pm. Ocoee Whitewater Center, 4400 US 64, Copperhill, TN 37317.

For info: at 865 590 9778 or www.ocoeeriverchampionships.com 9/16 Benton McKaye Trail Association Hike BMT near Cherohala and Tellico Plains, TN; from Unicoi Overlook/Beech Gap parking (elevation 4,400’) to Whigg Meadow (elevation 4,940’).

5.8 miles, moderate difficulty.

We will place a shuttle car@ Mud Gap to shorten the return from Whigg Meadow. Contact Hike Leader Tom Sewell at SewellTom@yahoo.com or text to 706-669-6406.

9/17 Benton McKaye Trail Association Hike Tobacco Pouch to Wildcat Campground. 5.1 miles, primarily moderate with occasional strenuous stretches.

About 3.5 hours. Hike starts downhill and includes one high-water stream crossing with ropes. The payoff is a beautiful waterfall and pretty terrain along Wildcat Creek.

Good hiking/water shoes and poles recommended. Contact hike leader Steve Dennison by text at 706-253-3938 or email at sjd50@etcmail.com 9/20 Benton McKaye Trail Association Hike BMT trail, Highway 60 to/from Toccoa River, and back. DOGFRIENDLY HIKE (adult humans may bring a leashed dog).

7.4 miles, moderate. Great hike over Toonowee Mt to the “Jewel of the BMT.” Lunch at the River. Contact hike leader Ken Cissna at kcissna@usf. edu or 813-310-6084

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

10/5 Blairsville Extreme Adventure Race (BEAR) Blairsville, GA. Unleash the adventure in you! They will have teams exploring the mountains, rivers, lakes, trails and beautiful woods surrounding Blairsville Georgia. Home of the highest mountain in Georgia. 8am – 5pm. Starts at Meeks Park, Blairsville GA. For info: www.argeorgia.com or 719-237-5109

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 Fridays & Saturdays Andrews Brewing Company Great music & craft beer.

6pm – 8pm. Andrews Brewing Company, 14 Miles for Harrah’s Casino, 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 Weekends Live Music at Blue Ridge Brewery Blue Ridge Brewery, 187 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA 706. 632. 6611 or www.blueridgebrewery.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 Copperhill Brewery Live Music. Definitely casual. Easy to relax. Roomy.

Sometimes there’s music.

Monday - Saturday : Noon to 8 PM Sunday: Noon to 5 PM. Copperhill Brewery - 105 Ocoee Street - Copperhill, TN 37317. Info: info@copperhillbrewery.com, 423-548-3030 or copperhill brewery.com 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.

8/2 Blood Sweat and Tears Hiawassee, GA. 7:00PM. Level 1: $40.00 + Handling & Credit Card Fees. Level 2: $30.00 + Handling & Credit Card Fees.

Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Road - Hwy 76 W, Hiawassee, GA 30546.

Info: 706-896-4191 or www. georgiamountainfairgrounds. com.

8/3 Fred Johnson – Live Music is Better Blue Ridge, GA. An accomplished writer, vocalist, and percussionist and is recognized internationally as one of the world’s greatest vocal jazz improvisers and one of the worlds most passionate and versed chanters of sacred text. $25. 7:30 pm. Blue Ridge Community Theater, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513. Tickets and contact 305.878.1985, info@brcmf.org or visit blueridgecommunitytheater.com

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New Art Arriving Weekly!

VACATION RENTALS BLUE RIDGE & ELLIJAY WHITEWATER RIVER & TROUT STREAM LAKE & MOUNTAIN VIEWS HOT TUBS ACCEPTING NEW CABINS CONTACT JOY 706. 635. 3952 / 404. 791. 4388 stressbuster@ellijay.com www.stressbustercabinrentals.com

VISIT US IN COPPERHILL, TN TO SEE OUR SELECTION OF ECLECTIC ART– PAINTINGS, PHOTOGRAPHY, POTTERY AND MORE! For Hours and More Information Please Contact Us at (423) 548-0000 or fatraccoonart@gmail.com

121 Ocoee Street, Suite 2, Copperhill, TN 37317

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Tonia Sheppard Advertising Sales PO Box 1250 | Blue Ridge, GA 30513 404. 784. 0620 AdsWithTonia@gmail.com www.aclivingmagazine.com

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Delivered to all Georgia Welcome Centers Across the State!

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

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

8/9 Vince Gill & Jedd Hughes Hiawasee, GA. 7:00PM. Level 1: $77.00 + Handling & Credit Card Fees. Level 2: $67.00 + Handling & Credit Card Fees.

Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Road - Hwy 76 W, Hiawassee, GA 30546.

Info: 706-896-4191 or www. georgiamountainfairgrounds. com.

8/9 An Evening with the Eagles at Chateau Meichtry Talking Rock, GA. The Matty Croxton & Craig McGriff Band, will be performing as the legendary 70’s icons, performing all their hits to your delight!!

6:30 – 9:30pm. Tickets are limited: $100 couple / $65 per single, and include tickets to the concert, a bottle of your favorite CMV wine, a souvenir glass & dinner from the Angelfire Food Truck!! Chateau Meichtry, 1862 Orchard Lane, Talking Rock, GA 30175. Info: (706) 502-1608 or www. chateaumeichtry.com.

8/15 Moonlight Concerts at Hamilton Gardens Hiawassee, GA. Teddy Baker - sponsored by Baker Chiropractic of Blairsville, GA. For info: https://hamiltongardens.org, info@hamiltongardens.org or 706-979-0011.

8/17 Canton River Rock Free Summer Concerts – Kentucky Headhunters Canton, GA. Etowah River Park Amphitheater. Kid’s activities, food trucks galore, and top musical acts. Bring your chairs, blankets & coolers. No tents and no glass, please. Fun starts at 6pm!

Etowah River Park is located at 600 Brown Industrial Pkwy, Canton. Info: www.cantonga. gov/visit/canton_river_rock_ concerts.htm 8/24 Roy Perren (Elvis) Live Hiawassee, GA. Join us at Mountain Home Music Theatre on Saturday, Roy Perren (Elvis) from Hiawassee, GA. Admission is $8.00.

2532 Hwy. 76 West (Next to Total Auto Parts. 3/4 mile from the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds), Hiawassee, GA 30546. For info: (706) 8964966

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

8/31 Chi-Town Transit Authority – Chicago Tribute Band Ellijay, GA. This seven-piece band based out of Atlanta has been wowing audiences at performing arts showcases with renditions from the famed “rock band with horns.”

The band Chicago is known for hits such as “Just You ‘n’ Me,” “Saturday in the Park,” “You’re the Inspiration,” “Hard Habit to Break” and many more. $33.00 – $35.00 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm. George Link, Jr. Gilmer Arts Playhouse, 135 Dalton St., Ellijay, GA 30540.

For tickets and info: 706-6355605 or www.gilmerarts.com 8/31 Sawyer Brown and Exile Hiawassee, GA. 7:00PM. Level 1: $45.00 + Handling & Credit Card Fees. Level 2: $35.00 + Handling & Credit Card Fees.

Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Road - Hwy 76 W, Hiawassee, GA 30546.

Info: 706-896-4191 or www. georgiamountainfairgrounds. com.

9/12 Moonlight Concerts at Hamilton Gardens Hiawassee, GA. Surrender Hill - sponsored by North & Main Clothing Company, Hiawassee GA. For info: https://hamiltongardens.org, info@hamiltongardens.org or 706-979-0011.

9/14 Roxy Watson Ellijay, GA. Roxie Watson is a four-piece string band from Atlanta, Georgia that blends gorgeous vocal harmonies and stellar songs into live performances that will just as soon make you laugh as shed a tear. Their music combines elements of old country, rocka-billy, bluegrass, gospel, and even a little touch of classic rock ‘n roll. $30 – $32.00 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm. George Link, Jr. Gilmer Arts Playhouse, 135 Dalton St., Ellijay, GA 30540.

For tickets and info: 706-6355605 or www.gilmerarts.com 9/31 Tracy Lawrence Hiawassee, GA. 7:00PM. Tickets $40.00 + Handling & Credit Card Fees. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Road - Hwy 76 W, Hiawassee, GA 30546. Info: 706-896-4191 or www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com.

THEATER 8/15 thru 9/1 Everybody Loves Opal Blue Ridge, GA. A devious little comedy in which 3 dastardly conmen attempt to Insure & kill off the kind-hearted, benevolent Opal Kronike. Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30pm, Sundays at 2pm. Blue Ridge Community Theater, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513. Tickets and contact 305.878.1985, info@brcmf.org or visit blueridgecommunitytheater.com 9/19 thru 10/6 A Facility for Living Blue Ridge, GA. Imagine a quasi-dystopian comedy where healthcare omits you for the smallest of tresspasses and prisons are ‘renovated’ into Senior Care Facilities.

Here a community of loveable, irascible inmates hell-bent on bucking the dehumanizing system in which they have landed. Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30pm, Sundays at 2pm.

Blue Ridge Community Theater, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513. Tickets and contact 305.878.1985, info@brcmf. org or visit blueridgecommunitytheater.com 9/20 thru 9/29 On Golden Pond Jasper, GA. Aging couple Ethel and Norman Thayer, who spend each summer at their home on a lake called Golden Pond. They are visited by daughter Chelsea with her fiancé Billy Ray and his son Billy Ray Jr. The play explores the often turbulent relationship the young woman shared with her father growing up, and the difficulties faced by a couple in the twilight years of a long marriage. Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30pm, Sundays at 2pm. Tater Patch Players, 95 Philadelphia Lane, Jasper, GA. Tickets and info: 706-2532800 or taterpatchplayers@ gmail.com 10/4 – 10/20 Live Theatre – Arsenic and Old Lace Ellijay, GA. Dark comedy.

Charming and innocent ladies who populate their cellar with the remains of socially and religiously acceptable roomers. $22.00 t- $24.00.

Dinner option available for an additional $12.00. Fridays & Saturdays 7pm. Sundays 2pm. George Link, Jr. Gilmer Arts Playhouse, 135 Dalton St. Ellijay, GA. Tickets and info: 706-635-5605 or www. gilmerarts.com/

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

WINE & BEER TASTINGS OPEN EVERY DAY Bear Claw Vineyards Blue Ridge, GA. Sunday Thursday 12-6pm, Friday & Saturday 12-8pm. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. 2281 Tennis Court Rd., Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Visit bearclawvineyards.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. Also join Wayne to sample his feature wine of the day. 4pm- 10pm. Bistro 29, 29 Tennessee St, Murphy NC 28906. For info: 828-8379022 or visit www.mybistro29.com

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. We have created our tap room to be a local hangout and loved establishment. If you appreciate 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: 423-5483030 or copperhill brewery. com Ongoing Wed - Sun Blue Ridge Brewery Dog friendly outdoor patio.

Open Wednesday through Sunday 11:00am – 9:00pm.

Blue Ridge Brewery, 187 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA. 706. 632. 6611 or www. blueridgebrewery.com Ongoing Thurs - Sun Buck Bald Brewing 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 We recommend checking events before makijng travel plans as dates and times are subject to change.

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AC LIVING HISTORY

history of indian georgia

– The Georgia Frontier

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

Horse Thieves, Pettifoggers, Regulators and Vigilantes

T

Towns sprung up across the South East Frontier around the possibility of gold mine finds. These towns consisted of a store, a post office, and of course, the saloon. Some “dandy” lawyer would find his way west in search of the prestige that comes from running for the office of sheriff or mayor, serving sometimes in both capacities as well as being legal counselor.

The “pettifogger” as they were referred to was someone who knew just enough about the law to employ dubious practices to his benefit. He was often full of deceit and trickery, pocketing the fines levied upon the defendant or offender, and then charging them his legal fee on top of it the town fine. The “pettifoggers” rambled from town to village, going wherever the action seemed best, and henceforth, people began to distrust lawyers.

This type of thieving had no ethnic, political or national boundaries. The Georgia Colonial records show dozens of cases of all sorts of thievery being propitiated upon the citizens from the coastal colony to the Georgia Frontier and beyond. These thefts could be whatever sort of goods one had, from clothing to the horse complete with bridal and saddle. Most often it was livestock or foodstuffs and travelers were regularly robbed of whatever goods they had.

The frontier farms, whether owned by whites or Indians, were targeted often. Those traveling along the Federal Road were frequently accosted as they took their stock to markets in Tennessee and beyond, but more so after they collected the money from the sale. Thievery was not always necessary to survive; it was just another occupation or way of life.

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Horses were the most prevalent theft along the frontier. Used as pack animals and the major form of transportation, horses were a must for survival in this inhospitable land. Indian agencies required items such as pots, pans, knives and rifles for their own use and to be brought in for trade with the Indians who furnished the agency with goods that were wanted back east: furs and hand made leather articles such as horse tack.

Traveling in groups afforded no protection on the free range.

Thieves would often steal the horses from the nightly encampment and ransack the wagons. Many incidents occurred in broad daylight with as much cunning as an actor upon a stage. One such

incident recorded near Milledgeville Georgia was of a white man who questioned the abilities of a Creek Indian who owned two horses. They decided to race the two horses to test their strength. One man mounted one horse while the Creek man road the other. They raced headlong down the main street of Milledgeville.

When they reached the predetermined finish line the white man kept on riding and disappeared into the hills.

In the early 1800’s, Creek Indian agent Benjamin Hawkins devised a method of branding horses with a different letter for each state of North and South Carolinas, Tennessee and Georgia from the coastal territories to the west, bordering the Mississippi River. He hoped that such a system could help identify the origins of horses should they show up in Creek county.

This method would go a long way towards settling disputes of ownership when the horses were retrieved. However the method was not readily accepted and implemented at that time and horse stealing continued to run rampant.

Counterfeiting and horse stealing were often linked. Horse thieves organized themselves into

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Above: Horse thieves were often at the mercy of vigilantes.

Below: Fort Hawkins in Macon, GA was established in 1806 by President Thomas Jefferson and Indian Agent Col. Benjamin Hawkins (left) as an official U.S. Army Fort and Indian Factory for trading and meeting with Native Americans. gangs, stealing horses in one area and disposing of them hundreds of miles away, preferably across state lines. For obvious reasons, counterfeiting operations were best carried on in the same way, and it was simple to combine the two occupations. The link between counterfeiting and horse theft had an effect on the distribution of regulator and vigilante movements. Therefore, these groups, dedicated to fighting exorbitant legal fees and the corruption of appointed officials in the frontier, as well as those who punished horse thieves, tended to be found in wilderness areas, closer to state lines, or nearer Indian villages. ACLM Leslie Barker Thomas is a resident of Ellijay and the President of the Gilmer County Historical Society; Former President, Georgia Chapter Trail of Tears Association and Board Member of the National Trail of Tears Association.

“When history is erased, people’s moral values are also erased.” –Ma Jian Visit the Gilmer County Historical Society Historic Tabor House & Civil War Museum 138 Spring Street, Ellijay, Georgia 30540 706. 276. 1861. Reservations by Appointment, or Open Thursday & Friday 10am to 2pm www.gilmercountyhistoricalsociety.org/ AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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