Appalachian Country Living, Dec 2019 - Jan 2020

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

Experience The Magic Of The Season Holidays At INOLA Blue Ridge

INOLA BLUE RIDGE, AN HISTORIC EVENT SPACE AND LIVING COMMUNITY DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

SHOP LOCAL MOUNTAIN STYLE WITH OUR HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

HIT THE ROAD AND JOIN US TO ENJOY THE SEASON’S ACTIVITIES 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 AVAIL 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 2/29/20.

3310 Blue Ridge Drive Blue Ridge, GA 30513

706-492-3071 AbernathysFurniture.com

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

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

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As I sit in my cabin writing this today we’ve just had our first sprinkling of snow, early considering it’s only November 12th. Wow. The fall leaves were splendid this year, much more colorful than we’ve had in sometime. Maxine, Billy and I took right advantage of the bright, clear, blue skies and crisp fall weather. Hiking around our little mountain keeping an eye out for what might become our Christmas tree. With the fall nearly behind us, and winter looming, everyone has been busy splitting and stacking wood getting ready for colder Maxine suns herself in the driveway after temps and to fire up the wood eating some recently dead thing out in stove. Fall festivals are just about the woods. Probably a deer that one of over and we all look forward to the hunters wounded and then it ran off the peaceful mountain winter, to die. Yes that is blood on her muzzle. Not even if it is a bit chilly. my favorite part of fall for sure.

This year we have a new venue opening just in time for the Holidays– INOLA Blue Ridge. Once a private residence estate modeled after Williamsburg, Virginia, INOLA Blue Ridge will be throwing its doors open to the public with a grand opening celebration over the Thanksgiving weekend. Fully renovated historic buildings and immaculate grounds will be the backdrop for Holidays at INOLA, where guests can meet Santa, take carriage rides, go ice skating or stroll through the illuminated maze.

While INOLA Blue Ridge is a wonderful event space for weddings and special events, featuring an historic chapel, Wetherburn’s Tavern & Inn and the Wythe Estate (allowing accommodations for 40 guests), it could also be your new home! Homesites, shops and restaurants will be coming soon, making INOLA Blue Ridge a truly magical experience.

And yes, the Season is upon us! We’re once again featuring our “Shop Local Mountain Style” Gift Guide. How fun to ramble around our mountain towns while looking for that perfect something for that special someone? Don’t forget about the best part of the holidays- cookies! We’ve provided a few timeless recipes with a new twist. So– ready, set, BAKE! A visit to the mountains this season wouldn’t be complete without our small town Holiday merriment. Santa arrives, tall town trees are lit– parades, caroling and New Year’s Celebrations are plentiful. There’s lots to do, so don’t miss out.

Next up is the February March issue featuring the goings on for Valentine’s Day, President’s Day and of course St. Patrick’s Day. We hope you join us in the mountains for some fantastic weekend events.

Until next time!

While Maxine goes her own way, my pal Billy Zoom hikes along with me. Both dogs wear bright orange muffs in hopes that the hunters won’t mistake them for deer.

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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 Kristy Lindstrom, Susie Council, Larry Marchant Photography, Rick Skelton, 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

DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

Make

in Ellijay

for Your HOLIDAY • Lumber & Building Supplies • Garden Center & Farm Supplies • Furniture & Appliances

THE PLACE

SHOPPING!

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

• Stihl, Yeti, and Traeger

‘TIS THE SEASON AT ACE HARDWARE OF ELLIJAY

HOME DECOR GIFTS FOR EVERYONE

Much More Than A Hardware Store!

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

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

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

1901 Appalachian Hwy Blue Ridge, GA In the Dogwood Plaza

706. 632. 3127

ANTIQUES, GIF TS & HOME FURNISHINGS

www.BlueRidgeCoinShop.com

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

20,00 SQUARE FEET | 125 DEALERS

706.635.2327

DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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CONTENTS

14

Spotlight, 7 Restaurant Shane’s Rib Shack Ellijay Looking for a Great Way to Cater Your Holiday Event? Shane’s Has it Covered

9 Renovate or New Build?

Style & Design Editor Cindy Trimble Discusses the Pros,Cons and Costs of Renovation vs. a New Build

10 Shop Local Mountain Style

This Season Shop our Friendly Local Stores & Skip the City Crowds

14 INOLA Blue Ridge

INOLA Blue Ridge Officially Opens its Doors for Holidays at INOLA… And You are Invited!

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the Most Wonderful Time 20 It’s of the Year Our Favorite Cookies with a New Twist

26 Holiday Happenings

Hit the Road and Join us for a Magical Mountain Holiday Season

20 It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

ON THE COVER WWW.AC

Experience the Magic of the Season at INOLA Blue Ridge.

Beginning January 29, and continuing through January 5, INOLA Blue Ridge will officially open its doors for Holidays at INOLA...and you are invited!

LIVINGMA GAZINE.COM | DECEMB ER 2019/JA NUARY 202 0

The Experience The Magic Of Season t Holidays BAlue INOLA Ridge

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Photo by Larry Marchant Photography, MarchantProductions.com

IN L MOUNTA SHOP LOCA OUR RIDGE, AN YLE WITH GUIDE UE ST BL A E OL T IN AC LIDAY GIF EVENT SP HISTORIC COMMUNITY HO G AND LIVIN

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AD AND HIT THE RO ENJOY THE JOIN US TOACTIVITIES ’S ON AS SE 1

UARY 2020

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

AC LIVING RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT

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

NEW!

Appetizer Sampler Platter

CABIN COFFEE DOWNTOWN BLAIRSVILLE

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

Fresh Roasted Coffee Everyday I-FI FREE W

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

Lunchtime U-Pick 2 Sushi Rolls $9.99

Includes Miso Soup and Ranch or Ginger Salad

706. 698. 2222

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

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

44A Town Square Blairsville, GA 30512

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

CabinCoffeeCompany.com Like us on FB / CabinCoffeeBlairsville

706. 745. 0073

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

Call Us Today!

706.492.5070 DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

Shane's Rib Shack, Ellijay

It's all in the secret sauce! Handed down over generations, Shane's BBQ sauce is the stuff of legends.

Shane’s Rib Shack has been open in East Ellijay coming up on ten years with many loyal customers who love the mouth watering ribs, heaping Big Dad barbecue sandwich, wonderful sides and desserts, all washed down with a cold beer.

What many don’t know is that Shane’s has the best chicken around. The fried or grilled chicken tenders are huge and can be tossed in one of their signature sauces or simply plain. Love wings?

Shane’s serves some of the best in town.

Watching the scale? Try one of their salads or a delicious wrap, great for a lighter lunch or for grabbing a bite on the go. Check out their gluten-free options!

Shane’s Catering is ready to bring their BBQ to your office, business or home, and this includes their gluten free menu too! There is no group too big or too small! Call 706-635-7427 to cater your next event, you won’t be disappointed.

Give the Gift of Shane’s! Pick up any of Shane’s Secret Sauces in store or you can order on-line. And don’t forget Shane’s Gift Cards- the perfect gift for coworkers, friends, family- or just about everyone on your list.

Owner, Steve Stone, would like to say thanks to his loyal customers for making the last nine years a success, "If you haven't been to Shane’s, please try us, I know you'll like us!"

Just off of 515, in front of Lowe’s in Ellijay, stop in and say hello to the friendly staff, try some tender barbecue, a salad or a wrap and leave happy. As the restaurant menu says, “It’s gonna get messy!” ACLM

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

Shanes’ Rib Shack, Ellijay 289 Highland Crossing, Ellijay, GA 30540 706. 635. 7427

Oscar and Edna Poole Darvin Poole

To view the complete menu, order on-line, or shop for some Shane’s Secret Sauce visit: www.shanesribshack.com/ellijay

www.poolesbarbq.com APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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SAVING OUR CLIENTS MONEY SINCE 2010

AUTOMATIC HOME STANDBY GENERATORS TRANSFER SWITCHES SURGE PROTECTORS

North Georgia Furniture & Home Decor

It is our goal to deliver comfort, style and quality furniture, bedding and accessories at very competitive prices. We pride ourselves in delivering American made products whenever possible!

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!

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

but certainly worth the effort!

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

Mention This Ad and Receive a

FREE

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

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

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

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

Around Back at Rocky’s Place

The Ultimate Folk Art Gallery in the South!

Saturday 11-5 Sunday 1-5 Or by Appointment

“Cardinal in the Snow”

by Cornbread

The BEST Selection By Cornbread In the Universe!

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

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

706. 265. 6030

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

706.431.7141 Facebook “f ” Logo

www.aroundbackatrockysplace.com

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160 OCOEE STREET, COPPERHILL, TN 37317

WWW.BUCKBALDBREWING.COM

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

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AC LIVING STYLE & DESIGN

Renovation or New Build?

Style & Design Editor Cindy Trimble Discusses the Pros, Cons and Costs of Renovation vs. a New Build

R

Renovation versus tear down is a huge question for many of our clients. Renovating a home comes with potential hazards and risks. But, tearing a house down can add costs such as huge demotion and disposal fees. The first question to ask - is there any way the house can be modified to meet your needs and lifestyle? Or are you going to be forced to live with features that will limit the way you want to live in the house? The “end result” should be your first consideration. Is it possible to get what you want with what you have for your budget?

Pricing renovations can be difficult for builders. It’s hard for them to guess at what lurks behind your walls, siding, under your roof or foundation. Builders often add additional costs for the “unknown.” Or they may add a clause that protects them from the unknown should they uncover a monster with big costs that may cause a delay in the schedule. This may lead to a big hit to your wallet during the construction.

New construction is a much cleaner slate.

There are given parameters for the construction and the related costs. There is a known schedule and budget. Everything will be new and designed exactly as you want it.

Renovation has been very popular recently as homeowners want to reuse and reclaim as much as possible. This has slowed down a lot of the “throw away” and “tear it down” actions and has encouraged many to try to salvage as much of their older home as possible.

If you have to tear down, maybe there are materials that can be salvaged and reused in your new home. There’s a huge market for salvaged materials. We incorporate reclaimed materials from older homes, warehouses or barns in our projects all the time. Some of the older details in reclaimed materials are priceless and can’t be duplicated in new wood and construction. Plus, older details and materials add a very unique element that you can’t get any other way.

DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

Renovation Before

And After

Renovation Before

And After

Older homes have details created by artisans and craftsman that are hard to find these days.

So, if there is a way to preserve some of those features, that may be worth the effort. However, there is a threshold you may reach where the dollars to redo and preserve exceed your budget.

Sometimes our clients engage a real estate agent to value a renovated home versus new construction. A renovated home may be worth more and have a wider appeal depending on where it is located. Many people buy the heritage and the character of a home, particularly in small towns or historic districts.

A big feature of a newly constructed home is the utilization of modern materials resulting in minimal maintenance. This is a huge issue with many homeowners these days. The other consideration, here in the mountains, is using materials that are rot and bug resistant, hence the proliferation of using concrete siding. And newer construction makes it much easier to incorporate updated mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems without having to tear the house apart to run new systems. This pertains not only to the interior of the house, but connections to the water and sewer supply systems in the site or city.

Then again, a benefit to renovation is the opportunity to phase the construction and spread APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

the costs over time which may be beneficial for your personal budgeting. New construction is one lump sum that happens all at once.

Construction is not an easy task, so some may prefer to get everything done at once and not drag it out over many years.

Renovations can be very disruptive to a household! We strongly advise all clients considering renovation make sure they have a place to live during construction. Living on a construction site is one of the most stressful situations. You must move as much of your belongings out of your house as you can. Construction dust and debris has a way of penetrating everything – cabinets, fabrics, furniture, mattresses, etc. And it is really important to clear the areas very well for your builder. You want to make sure your builder’s focus is on building a great house for you not having to work around all of your belongings (if at all possible!) 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 WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

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LOCAL

MOUNTAIN

STYLE

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING’S HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE SHOP OUR FRIENDLY LOCAL STORES & SKIP THE CITY CROWDS Abernathy’s Complete Home Furnishings

Being around the table with family during the holidays will always be memorable.

Touch up your dining room with a beautiful new dinette that the entire family will love! Abernathy’s Complete Home Furnishings has everything to make your home a gift of love this holiday season. From furniture and home decor, to mattresses and appliances, you’ll find something for everyone to enjoy. Abernathy’s Complete Home Furnishings, open Mon - Sat 9:00am - 5:30pm, 3310 Blue Ridge Dr, Blue Ridge, GA 30513, (706) 492-3071, www.abernathysfurniture.com.

Around Back at Rocky’s Place

There’ s nothing better than receiving a piece of folk art as a gift, and the gallery has many holiday-themed artworks to meet your needs, like these Cornbread Hoilday Paintings. If you’re looking for that something special that is not holiday-themed, we have that, too. The gallery features pottery, paintings, woodcarvings, metal works, fiber pieces, and assemblages…one-of-a-kind pieces make the perfect gift!!! Visit us at 3631 Highway 53 East, Dawsonville, GA, or on the website at www. aroundbackatrockysplace.com. Open Saturdays, 11-5 and Sundays, 1-5.

706-265-6030

ACE Hardware of Ellijay

ACE Christmas Shop is THE place to shop this Holiday season and we mean it! ACE Hardware in Ellijay carries everything and anything for everyone on your list.

Carhart? Yep. Womens & kids clothing?

Yep. Camping, fishing and outdoor gear? Yep. Furniture, appliances and housewares? Yep. Lawnmowers, garden supplies? Yep. Toys for the little ones?

Yep. And just for the tough guy on your list– tools, home repair items and building supplies. Take care of everyone on your list at ACE. Open Mon - Fri 7am - 6pm, Sat 7am - 5pm. Ace Hardware of Ellijay, 305 South Main St., Ellijay, GA 30540.

706. 635. 2236.

Black Bear Antiques

Have a collector on your gift list?

What about a special or holiday occasion? The experts at Black Bear Antiques in Ellijay are happy to help you find that special item. With over 20,000 square feet and 50+ dealers, they have just about every collectible and hostess/host gift you could want.

From vintage tableware, jewelry, and art, to trains, tools, and knives. Come visit and let Black Bear help you check off your list, even if you’re on that list! Black Bear Antiques, open Mon-Sat 10am-6pm and Sunday 12pm-6pm. Hwy. 515 and Maddox Rd. next to Ingles, 240-B Old Orchard Square, East Ellijay, GA 30540. or on Facebook at www. facebook.com/BlackBearAntiques.

Blue Ridge Coin Shop

The American Silver Eagle is one of the world’s most recognizable coins. The United States mint started producing them in 1986 and each coin is 1 ounce of 99.9% pure silver. The beautiful design and wide date range make American Silver Eagles one of the most popular gift options. Whether you want to start a yearly tradition of giving a dated ounce of silver coin or you are looking for a gift for the person who already has everything, the American Silver Eagle is bound to be a hit! Stop in and find rare coins, collectables and commemorative sets. Hours: Tues-Fri: 9:00am- 2:00pm, Sat: 10:00am2:00pm. Blue Ridge Coin, 1901 Appalachian Highway, Suite 105, Blue Ridge, GA 30513, (706)-632-3127 or www.blueridgecoinshop.com.

DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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Blue Ridge Community Theater

Season tickets make great gifts! Nestled in the North Georgia Mountains, the theater produces seven Main Stage adult plays, two Sunny D Children’s Theater productions, a two-week summer camp, and eight Live Music IS Better concerts.

This totals over 100 performances a year. Contact the Box Office today at 706-632-9223. Or visit www.

BlueRidgeCommunityTheater.com to make your reservations on-line.”

Blue Ridge Mountain Trail Rides at Hell’s Hollow

Don’t need more “stuff” this year? Here’s a superb gift idea– a safe and fun outdoor family adventure where you can let your inner cowboy SHINE!!! Is there anything as wonderful as a view of the Cohutta Mountains, riding atop of one of nature’s most majestic beasts? A day of horseback riding is the perfect therapy for the soul! Connect with our animals at all levels, from pure novice to expert. Take your pick of anything from our soft and easy pony-go-round, to our Black Diamond level riding trails, there’s something for everyone of all ages. Call Blue Ridge Mountain Trail Rides at Hell’s Hollow, 1-706-408-RIDE (7433) or visit www. blueridgemountaintrailridesathellshollow.com

Cabin Coffee, Co.

Here’s the perfect gift for every coffee drinker on your list.

How can you go wrong with something so good? Cabin Coffee Co.’s fresh, gourmet roasted beans come from the best growers around the world; Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Sumatra. Looking for an interesting blend? They have those too. Pair any coffee gift with flavorings like hazelnut, vanilla, snickerdoodle or crème brulee and you’re shopping is done. Open Mon – Sat: 7:00am - 4:30pm.

(During winter, Sat: 8:00 - 4:00). Visit Cabin Coffee Co., 44A Town Square Blairsville, GA 30512. 706-745-0073, Cabincoffeecompany.com

Copperhill Brewery

Brrrr. Baby it’s cold outside!

For the craft brew connoisseur, Copperhill Brewery has the swag they’ll want.

These warm beanies come in great colors for men and women. Not the right style? Check out the ball caps, tee-shirts, even dog collars and leashes. How about a growler? Logo glasses, coasters, key fobs, bottle openers and gift certificates will make great stocking stuffers, too. Enjoy a “Craft Beer You’ll Dig” while doing your holiday shopping to make the day complete. Thurs – Sat: noon – 8pm, Sun: noon – 5pm. Copperhill Brewery, 105 Ocoee Street, Copperhill, TN 37317, (423) 548-3030 or www.copperhillbrewery.com

Daisy Boutique

Where to find on trend and unique jewelry for someone close to your heart that she’s sure to love?

Shop Daisy Boutique this holiday season and nourish your mind, body and soul with our fine collection of designer jewelry. Romantically inspired with attention to detail.

The perfect touch for any holiday evening. Located at 35 South Main Street, Jasper, GA. 30143. Open Monday thru Saturday 10:00am to 6:00pm. 706-253-6996.

Follow us on facebook daisyboutique.com. or Instagram daisyboutique1.

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

Fat Raccoon Gallery

Do you have a pottery lover on your list? Then Fat Raccoon Gallery is the place for you to shop this holiday season. Whether functional, decorative or sculptural, you’ll find handmade pottery in many styles and prices. Mugs, plates, bowls, ornaments, and small-scale sculptures fill the gallery along with paintings, hand-crafted jewelry, fiber art, stained glass, and even local honey. You’re sure to find an awesome, unique gift for friends, family or maybe just for yourself! Call for hours. Fat Raccoon Gallery, 121 Ocoee Street, Copperhill, TN 37317, 423. 548. 0000 or www. facebook.com/Fat-Raccoon-Gallery.

North Georgia Furniture & Home Decor

Give the gift of comfort to the ones you love. A new powered recliner or lift chair will make even your biggest Grinch happy. Whether you need a new quality mattress set, a recliner or porch rocker, North Georgia Furniture and Home Décor will save you money. Unique furniture, home accents, and area rugs are their specialties. How about a gift certificate for a custom order? With hundreds of fabrics and wood finishes to choose from, create that special look that fits your family’s lifestyle. Hours: Mon - Fri 10am-6 pm, Sat 10am-4 pm. North Georgia Furniture and Home Décor: 2142 Tails Creek Road, Ellijay, GA. Call 706. 635. 4202 or visit www.ngfh.net.

Power Solutions Unlimited

Porch Life 360

What better gift to the entire family than a beautifully executed enclosed porch? Porch Life 365 will create the ultimate all-season outdoor living space of your dreams. Imagine spending time with family and friends surrounded by nature without the pollen or pests! Select materials that are not only beautiful but also durable and made to last, so you can enjoy your new favorite space for many years to come, a timeless gift for sure. Life is just better on the porch! Porch Life 365 Custom Enclosures, 706-889-8343 or www.porchlife365.com.

Peace of mind yearround, the ultimate gift. Generators aren’t exclusively for the winter months anymore, not for residents who have experienced the heat, humidity and temperamental weather of the summer months. The most vulnerable residents, such as those who rely on dialysis or chemo-therapy face a real threat during power outages. Generators are quickly becoming a must-have for peace of mind, especially as homeowners learn of their affordability and simple installation. Power Solutions Unlimited Inc., 111 Confederate Ave Jasper, GA 30143, (706) 253-7737 or www.psu24-7.com

Strings & Stitches Yarn Shoppe

Happy Holidays from The largest yarn shop in north Georgia, Strings & Stiches Yarn Shoppe is sure to have just the thing that the yarn artist on your list would love. Select from the exquisite yarns and notions or one of their many specialized project kits. Gift cards are always available, and don’t forget that of one of the shop’s wonderful classes would make a truly cherished gift for the creative soul on your list.

Hours: Tues, Wed & Fri: 10am – 5pm. Thurs: 10am – 7pm, Sat: 10am – 4pm. Strings & Stiches Yarn Shoppe, 449 Industrial Blvd., Ellijay, GA 30540. 706-698-KNIT. www.stringsandstitches.com

DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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Experience the Magic of the Season at INOLA Blue Ridge

Beginning November 29 and continuing through January 5, INOLA Blue Ridge will officially open its doors for Holidays at INOLA… And you are invited!

WORDS : INOLA BLUE RIDGE PHOTOS: LARRY MARCHANT PHOTOGRAPHY

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DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

Celebrating in the Formal Gardens of the Wythe Estate.

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I

Imagine a quaint colonial village outside your front door, with the secluded woods of the north Georgia mountains out the back. That’s right, INOLA Blue Ridge isn’t just for events, it can be your home! Phase One of the residential development is underway now.

In addition to the array of historical buildings already on the property, more colonial buildings will be constructed reflecting Williamsburg style, providing space for future retailers and restaurants INOLA, meaning Black Fox in Cherokee, is a colonial style village located in Blue Ridge, Georgia. Originally Merchant’s Hope, the village was built by visionary Thomas Jones in the 1980s as a private estate. The property showcases replicas of historic buildings found in Williamsburg, Virginia, including the Wythe Estate, Wetherburn’s Tavern, and a stunning chapel from the 1700s.

The estate is now experiencing a rebirth, and Fannin County’s Rick Skelton and Susie Council welcome you to experience the magic of this historic property.

Grand Opening Weekend

The grand opening weekend for Holidays at INOLA is November 29 through December 5th. On November 29, step back in time as you take a leisurely INOLA stroll. Tour the newly renovated Wetherburn’s Tavern, the original post office and barn, and experience the peace and tranquility of the historic chapel. Listen with wonder as the chapel bell rings on the hour!

We also welcome you to enjoy a ride in our horse-drawn carriage. Take a spin on the ice at the INOLA ice skating rink! Children will delight in visiting with Santa at the Wythe Estate Arbor and storytelling with Mrs. 16

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Claus by the cozy Wetherburn fireplace.

Then at sunset, INOLA will dazzle as holiday lights twinkle throughout the village, including the illuminated hemlock maze! A spectacular Yule Log celebration will take place in front of the Wythe Estate at 7 p.m.

Don’t forget to wear your walking shoes as you will find historic brick sidewalks, grass, and pea gravel streets beneath your feet!

Entrance to the property is free. Tickets will be sold for horse-drawn carriage rides, ice skating, and food and beverages. Carriage rides are $10 per person and ice skating is $15 per person. The first INOLA Blue Ridge 2019 collectible ornament will also be available for purchase. Holidays at INOLA will be a cash-free event. DEBIT and CREDIT CARDS only.

Holidays at INOLA - Opening Weekend

Friday, November 29 from 12-10 p.m.

Visits with Santa & Mrs. Claus (until 6 pm), carriage rides, ice skating, illuminated maze and more.

Yule Log Celebration – approx. 7 pm.

Saturday, November 30 from 12-4 pm.

Visits with Santa & Mrs. Claus, carriage rides, ice skating, illuminated maze and more – then head downtown to celebrate Light Up Blue Ridge!

Sunday, December 1 from 12-10 pm.

Ice Skating, INOLA Stroll, and Holiday Lights.

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

Left: Replica of the Wythe Estate, Williamsburg, Virginia.

Here: The colonial chapel’s 125-pound bell strikes on the hour.

Below: Williamsburg-inspired building that once served as the village post office.

The Celebration Continues

Holidays at INOLA Blue Ridge will continue through January 5, 2020.

For a complete schedule of each day’s events visit INOLA Blue Ridge on Facebook or on the web at www.inolablueridge.com.

Check out the special activities for Saturday, December 7 and 14, which include visits with Santa Claus, ice skating, horse and carriage rides, the illuminated maze, holiday lights and more.

INOLA Blue Ridge is located at 9265 Blue Ridge Drive - half a mile from Mercier Orchards.

The Future of this Historic Estate – Events, Retail, Home Sites

Old world charm in the romantic north Georgia Mountains. There are no truer words to describe INOLA Blue Ridge. Not just the historic backdrop for Holidays at INOLA, the estate is also taking on new life as an upscale mixed-use property. INOLA provides the perfect setting for indoor and outdoor weddings, corporate events, holiday gatherings, team building retreats, fundraising galas, concerts, movie sets and more in a variety of picturesque settings. Between Wetherburn’s Tavern & Inn and the Wythe Estate, INOLA Blue Ridge has the capacity to sleep 40 guests. If you’re planning a larger event, the area’s cabin rentals, motels and inns are peaceful and plentiful.

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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The Largest Yarn Shop in north Georgia!

CABIN FEVERSETTINGIN? GRAB SOMELUNCH & THEN GOSHOPPING!

Freshen up your winter wardrobe with a few new items at a great price.

Exquisite Specialty Yarns of all Fiber Types in Basics to Novelty

The temperatures are falling and so are our prices. Get the deals of a life time.

Shop early to get your size.

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

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

A timeless holiday classic, the story of George Bailey and his guardian angel, who shows him the world as if he’d never been born.

IT’S A WONDEFUL LIFE

November 21st - December 15th Thursday - Saturday 7:30 PM Sundays at 2 PM Follow Alice into Wonderland, a delightful but peculiar place, occupied by a Cheshire Cat, White Rabbit, Mad Hatter, March Hare, and the Queen of Hearts!

ALICE IN WONDERLAND

FEB MARCH 2020 ISSUE REACH 30,000 READERS

VALENTINE’S DAY PRESIDENT’S DAY ST. PATRICK’S DAY

ADVERTISING DEADLINE

JANUARY 10th

CALL TODAY! 706. 492. 5070 BlueRidgeMountainTrailRides.com 18

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alice@blueridgemediagroup.com APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

January 24th - February 9th Thursday - Saturday 7:30 PM Sundays at 2 PM THE GEORGIA SPIRITUAL ENSEMBLE CHRISTMAS & GOSPEL December 12th 7:30 PM JUST ROXIE UNIQUE ORIGINAL HARMONIES January 18th 7:30 PM

SEASON TICKETS

MAKE GREAT HOLIDAY GIFTS BOX OFFICE: 706. 632. 9191

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

MAIN: 706. 632. 9223 2591 EAST 1ST STREET • BLUE RIDGE, GA DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

Top: The back of the four-story Wythe Estate from the arbor in the Formal Gardens.

Below: INOLA Blue Ridge provides the perfect backdrop for your special occasion.

Inset: The newly renovated Wetherburn’s Tavern is ready to host your next event!

The Wythe Estate

The grandeur of the Wythe Estate is unparalleled. The four-story mansion opens in March of 2020. The main floor will host 80 people seated or 100 in cocktail fashion. Accommodations available for 14+ guests including a glorious suite encompasses the entire fourth floor. This space is perfect for the bride and bridal party, as a honeymoon suite or splendid mountain getaway. The suite also has breathtaking views of Sugar Lake on one side and the Wythe Estate Formal Gardens on the other. Renovations to be completed by early spring 2020.

The Wythe Estate Tent

The Chapel

The historic chapel exterior remains in its glorious, original condition with updates made to the interior.

Constructed in handmade brick, the chapel has a 52-foot tower containing a 125-pound bell which strikes hourly. It also has a 225-pound bell, circa 1853, which strikes on special occasions. The chapel’s interior boasts tall, palladium windows that fill the interior with sunlight. The chapel has sandstone floors, which step up to antique heart pine surfaces in the pew and alter areas.

Wetherburn’s Tavern

The stunning Wythe Estate Tent is 6000 square feet and seats 350 people.

The permanent structure was built beside the Wythe Estate and has a concrete floor, is heated and cooled, and illuminated with beautiful chandeliers. It has side curtains and panels that open and close to meet the needs of the event and weather. Although the tent houses our ice skating rink during Holidays at INOLA, it will be transformed back into a beautiful event space in early January.

The Grounds of INOLA

The immaculate grounds of INOLA Blue Ridge will also provide the perfect backdrop for your special occasion. The formal gardens located behind the Wythe Estate are home to original fruit trees and blossoming flowers. And Sugar Lake is two-and-a-half stunning acres of outdoor bliss.

Take a step back in time and come experience the natural beauty of the grounds of INOLA. Whether planning for that special event or searching for your new home place, historic INOLA Blue Ridge is simply all that you could imagine. ACLM

The interiors of Wetherburn’s Tavern and the Wythe Estate have undergone extensive renovations resulting in modern, luxurious interiors; however, their exteriors remain true to their Williamsburg construction.

Wetherburn’s Tavern is available to host events now. The main level seats 75-90 people, depending on the arrangement. The Tavern also has a brand new kitchen plus an entertainment deck overlooking Sugar Lake.

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

To learn more about INOLA Blue Ridge visit us at www.inolablueridge. com. Better yet, visit the property and experience where the past meets the present for yourself! INOLA Blue Ridge is located at 9265 Blue Ridge Drive half a mile from Mercier Orchards.

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It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

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AC LIVING RECIPES

Every December, our kitchens take on a magical transformation.

Counters are covered in a heavy dusting of flour and powdered sugar and Red and green sprinkles can be found in every corner.

Whether it’s a plate of family favorites for the kids or five dozen for the annual cookie swap, we’re here to help with new takes on the Holiday Favorites that everyone loves!

Speculaas: Spiced Star Cookies Speculaas are traditionally thin, crisp, dark-brown windmill-shaped cookies that originated in the Netherlands. However, you don’t need a mold to be able to enjoy these snapping crisp, delightfully spicy cookies. Try rolling out the dough and using your favorite cutters to make cookies that are just as elegant and fun.

Ingredients Cookies 1/2 cup unsalted butter 3/4 cup brown sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom* 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves* 1/2 teaspoon ground mace* (or substitute 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg) 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon* 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup almond flour, toasted almond flour preferred DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

1 teaspoon baking powder 2 to 4 tablespoons milk (regular or low-fat, not nonfat) *Or substitute 1 tablespon speculaas spice for the cardamom, cloves, mace, and cinnamon Icing 1/2 cup confectioners’ or glazing sugar 3 to 4 teaspoons milk or water Instructions To make the cookies: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter, sugar, vanilla, spices, and salt.

Stir in the flour, almond flour, and baking powder, then enough of the milk to make a stiff dough.

Form the dough into two disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 2 hours or more.

Preheat the oven to 325°F. Lightly grease, or line with parchment, two baking sheets.

Working with one disk at a time, roll the WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

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dough 1/8” to 1/4” thick. Cut out shapes using your desired cutters, and transfer the cookies to the prepared pans.

Bake the cookies for 15 to 20 minutes, until they’re lightly browned around the edges.

Remove them from the oven and transfer them to a rack to cool. As they cool, they’ll become quite hard.

To make the icing: Stir together the sugar and enough milk or water to create a thick but “drizzle-able” icing.

Drizzle the icing atop the cookies decoratively.

Prep: 15 mins. Bake: 15 to 20 mins. Total: 1 hr 30 mins. Yield: 4 dozen small cookies

Mapledoodles

A clever reworking of the classic Snickerdoodle, this inspired maple rendition complements apple cider, warm or cold.

Ingredients 16 tablespoons unsalted butter, or a combination of half butter and half vegetable shortening 1 cup pure maple sugar 1/2 cup granulated sugar 2 teaspoons cream of tartar 1 teaspoon salt 2 large eggs 1/2 teaspoon maple flavor 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

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Topping 2 tablespoons pure maple sugar 2 tablespoons granulated sugar Maple Glaze (optional) 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ or glazing sugar 2 tablespoons maple syrup 2 to 3 tablespoons heavy cream 1/4 teaspoon maple flavor Instructions To make the dough: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter, sugars, cream of tartar, and salt until fluffy.

Add the eggs, one at a time, scraping between additions. Beat in the maple flavoring.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, and flour. Add the flour mixture to the egg mixture and beat until blended.

Refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes, to stiffen it and make it easier to shape.

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lightly grease or line two baking sheets with parchment.

To make the topping: Combine the sugars in a small bowl or in a large plastic bag.

Drop the dough by the rounded tablespoonful into the sugar, gently shake the pan (or bag) to coat the balls, then roll them in your hands until they’re smooth and round.

Place the cookies on parchment-lined or lightly greased baking sheets, about 1 1/2” apart.

Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they’re a very light, golden brown.

Remove them from the oven, and after 5 minutes transfer them to a rack to cool.

To make the glaze: Mix together the glaze

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ingredients to make a spreadable frosting.

Smooth a thin layer over the cookies, or drizzle for a nice-looking effect.

Let the glaze dry for several hours before packing the cookies in airtight containers. Store for 1 week, or freeze for up to a month.

Prep: 30 mins. Bake: 10 to 12 mins. Total: 1 hr 10 mins. Yield: about 3 dozen 3” cookies

Chocolate Espresso Crinkles

Like every recipe, including the very simplest, this one has gone through a number of permutations.This variation includes espresso powder; it gives the chocolate flavor a boost while adding the merest aromatic hint of itself.

Ingredients 1 1/3 cups chopped bittersweet chocolate or chocolate chips 1/2 cup unsalted butter 2/3 cup granulated sugar 3 large eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 tablespoon espresso powder, or more to taste 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour confectioners’ sugar, for coating Instructions To make the dough: Place the chocolate and butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, and heat or microwave until the butter DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

melts. Remove it from the heat, and stir until the chocolate melts and the mixture is smooth.

In a separate bowl, beat together the sugar, eggs, vanilla and espresso powder. Stir in the chocolate mixture, baking powder and salt, then the flour. Chill the dough for 2 to 3 hours, or overnight; it’ll firm up considerably.

Preheat the oven to 325°F. Lightly grease a couple of baking sheets, or line them with parchment.

To shape the cookies: Put about a cup of confectioners’ sugar into a shallow bowl. Using a teaspoon cookie scoop, a spoon, or your fingers, scoop out heaping teaspoon-sized portions of the dough; they should be roughly 1 1/4” in diameter. Drop the dough balls into the confectioners’ sugar as you go.

Once about five or six are in the bowl, shake and toss the bowl to coat the balls with the sugar. (If you try to do this with too many balls at a time, they’ll just stick together.) Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 1/2” between them.

Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, switching the position of the pans (top to bottom, and front to back) midway through the baking time. As the cookies bake, they’ll flatten out and acquire their distinctive “streaked” appearance.

Remove the cookies from the oven, and allow them to cool on a rack. Store them at room temperature, well wrapped, for several days; freeze for longer storage.

Prep: 20 mins. Bake: 10 to 12 mins. Total: 2 hrs 40 mins. Yield: 5 dozen 2 1/2” cookies DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

Chai-Glazed Almond Cookies

These chai-infused cookies are a spinoff of the classic almond snowball/Russian teacake.

Delicately sweetened cookies are the ideal base for the rich, sweet, spicy glaze that gives them their festive look.

Ingredients Cookies 1 cup unsalted butter, at cool room temperature, 65°F to 68°F 3/4 cup granulated sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon chai spice, or 1 teaspoon ginger, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon cardamom, 1/4 teaspoon allspice, 1/8 teaspoon anise (optional), 1/8 teaspoon black pepper 1 cup almond flour 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour For extra almond flavor and texture, add 1/2 cup finely chopped, toasted almonds.

Glaze 1 cup confectioners’ sugar pinch of salt 1/2 teaspoon chai spice, or 3/8 teaspoon ginger, 3/8 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/8 teaspoon cardamom, 1/8 teaspoon allspice 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 to 2 tablespoons milk APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Instructions To make the cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease (or line with parchment paper) two baking sheets.

In a large bowl, beat together the butter, sugar, vanilla, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and chai spice.

Weigh the flours, or measure them by gently spooning them into a measuring cup and sweeping off the excess. Beat the almond flour followed by the all-purpose flour into the butter-sugar mixture.

Scoop heaping tablespoonfuls of dough — a tablespoon cookie scoop works well here — onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving 2” between them.

Bake the cookies for 13 to 16 minutes, until they’re a light golden brown.

Remove the cookies from the oven and place the baking sheet on a cooling rack. Allow the cookies to cool completely right on the pan.

To make the glaze: Combine all the ingredients, stirring until smooth and adding enough milk to make the glaze drizzle-able, but not too runny; molasses consistency is good.

Drizzle or pipe the glaze over the cooled cookies.

Store the cookies, well wrapped, at room temperature for several days; or freeze (unglazed) for longer storage.

Prep: 20 mins. Bake:13 to 16 mins. Total: 2 hrs 6 mins. Yield: About 33 cookies Continued on next page...

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Salty-Sweet Butter Pecan Cookies

Salt and sugar go together like coffee and cream — each brings the other to new heights. These butterscotch cookies are heavily laced with toasted pecans and butterscotch chips. Love salty/sweet? They’re rolled in a mixture of sugar and salt before baking, which gives them overthe-top flavor.

Ingredients 1 1/3 cups pecan halves 2/3 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed 2/3 cup granulated sugar 1/2 cup butter 1/2 cup vegetable shortening 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 3/4 teaspoon butterscotch, vanilla-butternut, or butter-rum flavor 1 teaspoon vinegar, cider or white 1 large egg 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 1/3 cups butterscotch chips

1/3 cup granulated sugar, mixed with 1 to 1 1/4 teaspoons salt, for topping* *If you’re making smaller (teaspoon cookie scoop-sized) cookies, increase the coating to 1/2 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 3/4 to 2 teaspoons salt.

Instructions Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease (or line with parchment) two baking sheets.

Place the pecans in a single layer in a pan, and toast until they’ve darkened a bit and smell toasty, about 8 to 9 minutes. Set them aside to cool, then chop coarsely.

In a large bowl, combine the sugars, butter, shortening, salt, espresso powder, baking soda, vanilla, flavor, and vinegar, beating until smooth and creamy.

Beat in the egg, again beating until smooth.

Scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl with a spatula to make sure everything is thoroughly combined.

Mix in the flour, then the chips and toasted nuts.

If you’re going to refrigerate the dough, cover the bowl, and refrigerate for about 4 to 5 hours; or overnight. Cookie dough refrigerated for 3

1/2 to 4 hours will spread moderately; chilled overnight, it will spread much less.

Mix the 1/3 cup sugar and salt for the coating, and put it in a bowl. Use a spoon (or a tablespoon cookie scoop) to scoop 1 1/2” balls of dough into the sugar/salt mixture, rolling to coat. Then transfer to the prepared baking sheets, leaving 2” between them on all sides; they’ll spread quite a bit. Or use a teaspoon cookie scoop to scoop 1 1/4” balls of dough.

Bake the cookies for 10 to 11 minutes — 11 minutes for smaller cookies, 12 for larger ones.

Their edges will be chestnut brown and their tops a lighter golden brown. (For dough that’s been refrigerated, add 30 seconds to 1 minute to those baking times.) Remove them from the oven, and cool on the pan till they’ve set enough to move without breaking. Repeat with the remaining dough.

Prep: 18 mins. Bake: 10 to 12 mins. Total: 34 mins.

Yield: About 4 dozen 3” cookies, or 7 dozen 2 1/4” cookies All recipes and photos courtesy of King Arthur Flour. Go Forth and Bake!

Appalachian Mommas’ Lullabies

by Betty Kossick

“Go to sleepy little baby,”

while tender comfort fills their day,

this lullaby’s been sung so long

for the singin’ chases sorrow

by the Appalachian women

far, far off, and so fast away.

whose very smiles are sweet and strong.

Sometimes the mommas sing about

Mommas of the lofty mountains

the joys of “going to the fair,”

sing out, “Down in the valley,” too,

and oftentimes their melodies

they sing those most endearing words

ring “the heavenly angels care.”

so crying baby won’t be blue;

The gentle songs the mommas sing

soft songs lull the cooing infant

are to touch the dear baby’s heart,

quickly off to a peaceful sleep,

for Appalachian women know

assuring them, “My soul to keep.”

such songs create an early start,

They take their motherin’ with care

for children singin’ on their own,

to tend well their little children,

to make joy-cheer along the way,

to rear them with hours of song,

growin’ up at their Momma’s knee,

so they will grow up a’ singin.’

pure happiness for every day.

Lullabies keeps their hearts happy--

Songs put smiles on little faces

such as, “You are my sunshine,” is

while their Momma-mine hums or sings,

a blessing to the wee children,

as they delight in her music:

as gentle as their momma’s kiss.

tender touch—as if angel’s wings.

And the mommas feel blessed in turn, 24

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The Origin of Santa’s Reindeer

WORDS: JENNEY CHEEVER PHOTO: SVETLANA GORODETSKAYA

Santa’s Reindeer come to mind as soon as you start

to think about Christmas. We’ve all heard the legend about Santa flying around the world to deliver toys in his sleigh pulled by eight reindeer, but they weren’t always part of the Christmas celebrations.

Different Ways to Travel

As Christmas legends go, the story of the sleigh with Santa’s reindeer is very new. For many centuries there have been stories about a kind old man delivering gifts to children all over the world, whether he’s known as St. Nicholas, Sinterklaas, Father Christmas, Santa or any of his other aliases.

Stories of the mysterious and generous old fellow have been around since the fourth century. But it wasn’t until the 19th century that the eight famous reindeer entered the Christmas scene.

Prior to that, Santa traveled on a white horse in Europe and a donkey in South America.

It is believed that Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner and Blitzer first apDECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

peared in 1823, in the poem “A Visit From St. Nicholas,” commonly known as “The Night Before Christmas,” by Clement C. Moore. It didn’t take long for them to become an essential part of holiday lore. It soon became common for artists to depict Santa with reindeer. Santa’s sleigh full of toys being pulled across the sky by the team of reindeer has become an iconic holiday image.

Santa’s Newest Friend

But what of Rudolph, the most famous reindeer of all?

Rudolph, the red-nosed reindeer, was created in 1939 by Robert May, an employee of Montgomery Ward. The department store wanted to create a free giveaway book for children as a promotion. May wrote the story in rhyme for the book, which was a big hit with Montgomery Ward’s customers. By the late 1940s, approximately six million copies of the book had been distributed.

May’s words were set to music in 1947. “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” was recorded by Gene Autry and became a huge hit, cementing Rudolph’s place in Christmas history.

New tales and stories of Santa’s reindeer sleigh-pulling team continue to make their way into popular culture in the form of books, movies and television shows, showing us that the legend of Santa’s famous reindeer is here to stay. ACLM

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INSIDE Welcome to our Calendar!

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

ARTS First Fridays Murphy Art Walk Murphy, NC. Stroll through historic downtown Murphy for an exquisite visual, culinary, and performing arts experience. Presented by The Valley River Arts Guild 5-8 pm. Visit http://visitcherokeecountync. com/ or call 828-557-0602 Thursday Mornings Plein Air Painters of Hiawassee Contact Joyce Clair (clairjoy@ hotmail.com ) to get on the email notification list. Joyce sends out an email every Wednesday with info on where to meet and whether or not plein air is cancelled due to weather. There is no fee as this is not a class. Bring your own art supplies, chair, water, and etc. All media and skill levels. www.artworksgalleryga.com Thru 12/12 Photographic Art by Matthew Ward Ellijay, GA. Gilmer Arts B.E.S.T. Visual Arts Series (Bringing Ellijay Sensational Talent) announces its 10th exhibition in the series with the opening of Photographic Art by photographer Matthew Ward.

On display at Gilmer Arts until December 12, 2019. Gilmer Arts, 207 Dalton St., Ellijay, GA 30540. Info: www.gilmertarts. com or 706-635-5605.

Thru 12/14 Cherokee Arts Center Holiday Show & Sale Canton, GA. This show will feature many different art media and all pieces will be

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for sale. Hours: Tuesday Friday 11am - 5pm, Saturday 12pm - 5 pm Your holiday shopping can be done right here! Cherokee Arts Center, 94 North St. Canton, GA 30114.

Info: 770.704.6244. Info: info@cherokeearts.org or www.cherokeearts.org.

Thru 1/4 AIR 4th Qtr – Jerry Mucklow Blue Ridge, GA. Jerry Mucklow is a multi-talented digital photographer whose subject matter is as vast as his talent.

Opening reception will be held October 5, 5-7pm. For info visit www.blueridgearts.net, Email: BlueRidgeArts@gmail. com, Phone: 706-632-2144 Thru 1/4 Holiday Show & Sale Blue Ridge, GA. Come shop for that creative and unique holiday gift. Hundreds of hand-made items ranging from ornaments to pottery to one of kind paintings. Gift Certificates are also available. For info visit www. blueridgearts.net, Email: BlueRidgeArts@gmail.com, Phone: 706-632-2144

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! Just look for a red balloon and you’ll find a business that’s happy to serve you! 5 – 8pm.

12/28 & 1/25 Cars and Coffee - Cruise-in - Automotive social event Ellijay, GA. North Georgia’s monthly meet of auto and motorcycle enthusiasts. Held on the last Saturday of each month. Bring anything on wheels. Enjoy free coffee and donuts. 50/50 raffle and great conversation. 8am – 11pm.

Riverside Pavillion, Main St., Ellijay, GA 30540. Info: Www. EllijayMountainCruisers.com, Michael Johnson 843-8143774 or mhjfedex@aol.com

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

NORTH GEORGIA'S GUIDE TO AREA

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

HOLIDAYS Thru 12/31 Tour of Trees Blairsville, GA. Over 40 beautifully decorated trees and wreaths on display throughout the Community Center.

Sponsored by Union County Hospital. FREE! Mon- Sat 9am – 5pm. Union County Community Center, 129 Union County Rec Rd. Blairsville, GA. Info: 706-745-5789 or www.

VisitBlairsvilleGA.com.

11/28 thru 12/28 Mountain Country Christmas in Lights Hiawassee, GA. Enjoy Caroling, Arts & Crafts, Food and Entertainment throughout the event at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in Hiawassee, GA. - Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 6 -10PM. $5. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds 1311 Music Hall Road Hiawassee, GA 30546. For info: 706-8964191 or www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com 11/29 - 1/5 Holidays at INOLA Blue Ridge, GA. Vist the Grand Opening of Historic INOLA Blue Ridge for the Hoildays!

Friday, November 29 from 12-10 p.m. Visits with Santa & Mrs. Claus (until 6 pm), carriage rides, ice skating, illuminated maze and more.

Yule Log Celebration – approx.

7 pm. Saturday, November 30 from 12-4 pm. Visits with Santa & Mrs. Claus, carriage rides, ice skating, illuminated maze and more – then head downtown to celebrate Light Up Blue Ridge! Sunday, December 1 from 12-10 pm.

Ice Skating, INOLA Stroll, and Holiday Lights. INOLA Blue Ridge, 9265 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Info: www.inolablueridge.com.

11/29 Light Up the Basin McCaysville, GA. Copperhill, TN. Join us for Holiday Fun and the lighting of the Big Tree. Info: www.

GoCopperBasin.com, https:// www.facebook.com/ GoCopperBasin/ or 770-5970252.

11/29 Blue Friday Blue Ridge, GA. Blue Friday is when merchants offer discounts and the downtown area will be filled with live entertainment throughout the day. Strolling Christmas characters, food vendors and entertainment in the park.

Info: https://lightupblueridge. info/ or 706-258-2432.

11/29 Light Up Ellijay- A Small Town Holiday Celebration Ellijay, GA. Activities include arts and craft vendors set up on board street during the day and through the evening events. There is a lighted Christmas parade at 6:00pm, following the lighting of the Christmas tree. The tree is lit to the sounds of carolers are 5:30pm. Info: www. gilmerchamber.com or 706635-7400.

11/30 Light Up Blue Ridge Blue Ridge, GA. A full day of fun begins on Saturday when Santa arrives on the train approximately 11:15 a.m.

Santa will be in the park from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. for visits with the kids. Parade will begin at 5:30 p.m. and then the weekend concludes with lighting of the GREAT TREE at 7 pm. This 27 foot tall tree is a sight that will WOW children and adults alike. Info: https:// lightupellijay.com, https:// lightupblueridge.info/ or 706258-2432.

11/30 Towns County Sheriff Empty Stocking Fund Parade Hiawasee, GA. Enjoy bringing in the Christmas Season6:00 PM - 8:00 PM EST. Info: (706) 896-4966 12/1 North Georgia Toy Run Macedonia, GA. Begins at Kroger Parking Lot, 8020 Cumming Hwy (Hwy 20) in Macadonia. Meet/Register: 11 am. Kickstands Up at 1pm.

Bring two toys. Sponsored

by Custom Riders Motorcycle Club, Steelhorse Law, and Hartman Cycles. Benefits

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Jasper Lions Club Fill-AStocking. For information call 770-479-8254 12/6 & 12/7 Blairsville Holiday Stop & Shop Blairsville, GA. There will be over 50 home-based business vendors there to cover all your holiday shopping needs. FREE! 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM EST. Union County Civic Center located at 165 Wellborn Street, Blairsville GA. Info: Sharon Penner 770-789-2044.

12/7 Christmas on the Square and Parade Blairsville, GA. Pictures with Santa at the Historic Courthouse from 4pm-6pm.

Celebrate Christmas with the Evening Parade to start at 6pm, tree lighting & caroling following the parade. 10:00 4:00 Open House in the 1906 Butt-Mock House. Free! Info: 706-347-3503.

12/7 Night of Lights Christmas Celebration & Parade Jasper, GA. Parade Theme: Christmas Vacation. Santa Claus available for pictures in front of the Pickens County Courthouse. Vendors, Food, Music and Entertainment on the stage in front of the Courthouse sponsored by WYYZ 1490AM and 102.7FM. Festivities start at 4 pm; the reading of The Christmas Story will begin around 5:40; the Christmas Tree Lighting is at 6 pm, followed immediately by the start of the parade.

FREE! More info and vendor application or call 706-4261968.

12/7 Kris Kringle Mountain Market Balirsville, GA. Enjoy a visit to the European Outdoor Holiday Market! Music, children’s area. More than 75 vendors with produce, arts/crafts, and delicious food creations. 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM EST. Union County Farmers Market, 148 Old Smokey Rd., Blairsville, GA. Info: 706-439-6043 or http://www.ucfarmersmarket. com DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

AC LIVING CALENDAR 12/7 Copperhill Kiwanis Club Annual Christmas Parade Copperhill, TN. Come out to take part of a fun and exciting day! Any club or organization (Veterans, school, church, band, civic, equestrian or walking group, classic automobiles, beauty queens) can participate. 2pm. Rain Date will be December 14, 2019 @ 2:00 PM. Steve Taylor Ball field, West Tennessee Avenue. Info: Howard Jabaley-706-455-0082 or Julie Colgate 678-447-1161.

12/7 Murphy Holiday Market Murphy, NC. Handmade and original items created

by Murphy Farmers Market Vendors will be at the Holiday Market Saturday December 7th. Visit 11-4 to find unique holiday gifts before the Murphy Christmas Parade!

L&N Depot in Downtown Murphy. Info: (828) 644-8677 12/7 A Very Murphy Christmas & Parade Murphy, NC. “Frosty the Snowman Comes to Town” is this year’s theme and the parade will be at 6pm. So it’s time to bust out your Clark Griswold and start looking for battery operated lights, solar lights, or a quiet generator. We will have judges, so decorate to impress! Free! Registration to march in parade is required. 4pm until dark. Parade at 6pm. Info: www. cherokeecountychamber.com or 828-837-2242 12/8 Christmas Tour of Homes Fannin County, GA. Back

by Popular Demand the Christmas Tour of Homes benefiting Fannin County Family Connection. Save the Date! Participants will receive a map to tour fabulous homes throughout Fannin County.

For more info contact: Family Connection, 101 Fannin Industrial Park, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Phone: 706-632-6063.

12/13 Leann Rimes – You and Me Christmas Tour Franklin, NC. “We are back this holiday season singing all your favorites, from Christmas classics, to new music to my hits. There is something for everyone, so come on out and see us!” 7:30pm. $35, $40, $45, VIP Seating Available. Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts,

1028 Georgia Road, Franklin, NC 28734. Info & Tickets: 866-273-4615 or info@greatmountainmusic.com.

12/13 & 12/14 Daily Bread Trio Christmas Concert Canton, GA. Daily Bread is a gospel trio that “sings from the heart” in beautiful three part harmony. With their positive message songs, Daily Bread brings joy and happiness everywhere they perform. 7pm. Tickets: dailybread@gmail.com. Cherokee Arts Center, 94 North St. Canton, GA 30114. Info: 770.704.6244 or visit www. cherokeearts.org 12/14 Christmas Tree Lighting at Vogel State Park Blairsville, GA. Hayrides at 4pm. Santa Claus arrives at 5pm. Caroling at 5:30pm around the tree. Free hot cider and hot chocolate. Bring a blanket and chair for seating. Lighting of a 35-foot Blue Spruce at 6pm. Bring an unwrapped gift for a child up to the age of 12 (no toy guns, knives, or dangerous items).

Toys distributed by the Union County Sheriff’s Department as part of the GIVE-A-GIFT toy drive. Parking $5.00. Vogel State Park, U S Hwy 19/129S (11 miles south of Blairsville).

Info: 706-745-2628 or http:// www.gastateparks.org.

12/14 Annual Cookie Walk Ellijay, GA. Good Samaritan Catholic Church’s Annual Cookie Christmas Walk Come select your cookies early they are all homemade!

Fill your boxes from $5.00 to $25.00. 8am until all cookies are sold. Info: 706-636-2772.

Good Samaritan Catholic Church, Parish Hall, 53 Church Street, Ellijay, GA. 12/14 Open House & Cookie Contest Blairsville, GA. Put on your ugly sweater and join us for holiday fun! Free submissions for our cookie contest. Wine prizes for Patron Favorite, Most Festive and Most Delicious voted by kids. Wine glass painting and grape vine wreath building offered for $5.

Selfies with Buddy the Elf as we let instagram vote for the winner of our Ugly Sweater Contest! 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM EST. Paradise Hills Resort and Spa, 366 Paradise Road, Blairsville GA, 30512. Info: www.paradisehillsga.com

DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

12/14 A Carpenter’s Christmas Hayesville, NC. Lisa Rock recreates Karen Carpenter’s sultry voice with all your favorites; “Merry Christmas Darling,” “Close to You,” and other traditional Christmas songs. 7pm. Tickets - $25/ Adults; Students/$12; Children (under 10)/$6. Main Stage at Peacock Performing Arts Center, 301 Church Street, Hayesville, NC. Info & tickets: 828-389-2787 or www.thepeacocknc.org.

12/21 Scott Thompson Christmas Back Home Franklin, NC. An eight-piece, all-star band of musicians for a new take on timeless holiday masterpieces. A classic Christmas show with a twist. 7pm. Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts, 1028 Georgia Road, Franklin, NC 28734. Info & Tickets: 866-273-4615, info@greatmountainmusic.com or www. greatmountainmusic.com 12/31 New Year’s Eve Midnight Train Blue Ridge, GA. Join us for a 1920’s themed ride. Dress to impress in your best 20’s attire. This 21+ wine, beer and hors d’oeuvres train departs Blue Ridge at 10:00 pm on New Year’s Eve and returns approximately 12:30 am on New Year’s Day. $86 per person or $162 per couple.

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, 241 Depot Street. Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513. Tickets & info: www.brscenic.com or 706632-8724.

12/31 Party on Main New Year’s Eve Jasper, GA. FREE! - Come down and Party with us on Main Street in Jasper - We will have “DJ Dano” Blankowski, returning for the 6th straight year, playing music and entertaining all evening, kid’s area, food and beverages, vendors, live feed from NYC and a ball drop. JMA will also be raffling off a 55” TV just before midnight! Info: (706) 426-1968 orJasperMerchantsAssociation@gmail.com.

12/31 Adrian Stover Cartecay Vineyards Ellijay, GA. The Chimney Patio, Tasting Barn Hay Loft if inclement weather Cost: No Cover Charge Wine Tasting: $10.00; 4 Tastings and

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Cartecay Vineyards’ Logo Wine Glass. 1:30 – 5:30. Cartecay Vineyards, 5704 Clear Creek Rd, Ellijay, GA 30536.

12/31 Daisy Chain at Chateau Miechtry Talking Rock, GA. Daisy Chain will be playing from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. No Cover / No R.S.V.P. Chateau Meichtry Family Vineyard and Winery, 1862 Orchard Ln, Talking Rock, GA 30175. Info: (706) 502-1608 or www. chateaumeichtry.com.

12/31 Winter Solstice Celebration Young Harris, GA. Join us for the lighting of our solstice bonfire to chase away the longest night of the year.

Complimentary chili bar for all guests at 5:30pm. Wine available for purchase. No reservations required. Free!

5:30- 8:30. Crane Creek Vineyards, 916 Crane Creek Rd. Young Harris, GA 30582.

Info: 706.379.1236. or cranecreekvineyards.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/

11/29 thru 12/23 Santa Express Train Blue Ridge, GA. Join our Santa Express for a Christmas story, caroling, plus the chance to meet Mrs. Claus and Santa himself! Every child will receive a traditional bell and candy cane. The Santa Express departs at 10 AM, 12 PM, 2 PM, or 4 PM. Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, 241 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513.

Tickets and info: https://brscenic.com, info@brscenic.com or (877) 413-8724.

12/6 & 12/13 Let It Snow* A Holiday Music Journey Young Harris, GA. Rollins Planetarium. This familyfriendly show with modern visualizations features a variety of holiday classics—from Frank Sinatra and Chuck Berry to Burl Ives and Brenda Lee—and includes a stunning multimedia finale by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. *Cosmic Concerts are nonastronomy programs containing loud music, flashing lights, spinning stars and other effects that some may find disruptive. 7pm. $5. Tickets and info: https://www.yhc. edu/academics/math-science/ rollins-planetarium/publicshows or contact director Steve Morgan: smorgan@yhc. edu or (706) 379-5130 12/6 & 12/13 Season of Light Special Holiday Presentation Young Harris, GA. Rollins Planetarium. This holiday favorite show explores the traditions of the world’s holiday customs, a which involve lighting up the winter season—from the burning Yule log and the lighting of luminarias to sparkling Christmas tree lights and candles in windows. Celebrate the season through the wonder of the planetarium’s star-filled sky. 8pm. $5. Tickets and info: https://www.yhc.edu/academics/math-science/rollinsplanetarium/public-shows or contact director Steve Morgan: smorgan@yhc.edu or (706) 379-5130.

12/7 Holly Jolly Christmas – Breakfast with Santa Blairsville, GA. Come join us for some FREE family fun!

Pictures with Santa, Games, Mayor’s Christmas Train, Gingerbread Villages, Family Photo Opportunities, Live Music and Refreshments. from 9am-11am. Union

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www.lakearrowheadga.com.

LAH_4855_Appalachian_HalfPg_7.375x4.875_FI.indd 1

MotoX Adventures

VACATION RENTALS

GA MTN ADVENTURE TOURS

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

Guided On/Off-Road Tours

Leave the Details to Us and Ride the Mountains of Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee Customized ADV Rides with All Skill Levels Welcome

SHOP OUR GREAT NAME BRANDS! Brighton HOBO Handbags Natural Life Levtex Bedding • Home Decor Fashion Apparel and Much Much More!

Free Gift Wrap with Purchase Monday thru Friday 10am-6pm, Saturday 9am-3pm One North Main Street | Jasper, GA 30143

R Experience the best back roads, wilderness and scenic beauty in the gorgeous mountains of GA, NC, and TN on your ADV bike with an experienced rider guide.

motoxadventures.com

Clock Tower gifts & boutique

706. 253. 3070 www.jasperdrugs.com

A

One N.Main Street, Jasper GA

Williams Tire Co.

JUNE/JULY 2018

Unique Holiday Gifts Are Here!

03_JuneJuly_2018.indd 5

Since 1955 Now in Two Locations Tires • Wheels • Oil Changes • Alignments Full Service Maintenance Visit Our r o Website Fl Specia Offers!

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

Consigning Women Gently Pre-Loved Clothing at a Fraction of the Original Price

Williams Tire 5140 Appalachian Hwy. Blue Ridge, GA 30513

706. 946. 2322

706. 253. 6905

Ellijay Tire 583 Maddox Drive Ellijay, GA 30540

540 North Main St. Suite E Jasper, GA

706. 635. 2322

williamstireco.com 28

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SHOP SHOP SHOP SHOP

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

SMALL! LOCAL! SMALL! LOCAL! DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

APPALA

County Community Center, 129 Union County Rec Rd. Blairsville, GA. Info: 706-745-5789 or www.

VisitBlairsvilleGA.com.

12/14 Gilmer Arts Family Fun Night Ellijay, GA. Meet and get a photo with Santa, enjoy the showing of the holiday favorite Polar Express. Enjoying milk & cookies. Free! Limited seating, reservations required. George Link, Jr. Gilmer Arts Playhouse, 135 Dalton St., Ellijay, GA. For more info call 706.635.5626

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

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

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

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

For info: 828-321-2006 or www.andrewsbrewing.com Sundays Live Music at Rocco’s Rocco’s Pub, 47 Mountainside Village Parkway, Jasper, GA. Contact 706.253.1900 or visit http://roccosjasper.com Fridays Concert Series at the Old Courthouse Blairsville, GA. Free! 7pm. Old Historic Courthouse, 1 Town Square, Blairsville GA. For info: Union County Historical Society 706-745-5493 or www.unioncountyhistory.org/ 3rd Friday Every Month Live Music Acoustic Blends Listen to a Variety of Quality Music Acts … or Join the Jam! Bring your own libations and munchies. 7 pm.

Free & Public Invited. For info please contact Gilmer Arts 207 Dalton St. Ellijay, GA 30540.

706-635-5605. Visit www. gilmerarts.org

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

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

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

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

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

Saturdays Live Music Hiawassee, GA. Country, bluegrass, oldies and gospel music. Complete family entertainment. Shows every Saturday night beginning at 7 p.m. Come see us for great family entertainment. $8.00.

7pm – 10pm. Mountain Home Music Theatre, 2532 Hwy. 76 West, Hiawassee, GA 30546.

Info: https://mthomemusictheatre.weebly.com or 706896-3624.

12/7 Roy Perren (Elvis) Live Hiawasee, GA. Admission is $8.00. Mountain Home Music Theatre. 2532 Hwy. 76 West (Next to Total Auto Parts.

3/4 mile from the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds), Hiawassee, GA 30546 12/7 The Joe Alterman Jazz Trio Hayesville, GA. Tickets $30/Adults; Students/$20; Children (under 10)/$15. 7:00

DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

PM - 9:00 PM EST. Main Stage at Peacock Performing Arts Center, 301 Church Street, Hayesville, NC - 828-3892787. Tickets & info: www. thepeacocknc.org 12/14 Little River Band Hiawassee, GA. Hits include: It’s a Long Way There, Help Is on Its Way, Happy Anniversary, Reminiscing, Lady, Cool Change, Lonesome Loser, The Night Owls, Take It Easy On Me, Man On Your Mind, We Two, and The Other Guy. 7pm. $25. Anderson Music Hall featuring a wooden stage.

Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Road , Hiawassee, GA 30546. Info: http://www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com or 706-8964191.

12/21 The Georgia Spiritual Ensemble Blue Ridsge, GA. Traditional and arranged choral and solo spirituals that have been popularized throughout the twentieth century. Because of the strong musical legacy the spiritual possesses and the horrific conditions under which it “sprang” into existence, it continues to maintain its original haunting quality and its uncanny beauty and dignity. 7:30pm. Blue Ridge Community Theater, 2591 East 1st St., Blue Ridge, GA 30513.

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

THEATER 11/21 – 12/15 It’s a Wonderful Life Blue Ridge, GA. George Bailey’s dreams of escape and adventure have been quashed by family obligation and civic duty. His guardian angel descends on Christmas Eve to save him from despair and to remind him—by showing him what the world would have been like had he never been born—that his has been, after all, a wonderful life. This faithful adaptation has all your favorite characters.

WINE & BEER TASTINGS Open Every Day Engelheim Vineyards Engelheim Vineyards 127 Lakeview Road, Ellijay, GA 30540. Call 706-635-WINE (9463) or visit www.engelheim.com.

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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

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

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

Bistro 29, 29 Tennessee St, Murphy NC 28906. For info: 828-837-9022 or visit www. mybistro29.com Thursdays Copper Basin Crawl and Brewery Tour Come out every Thursday for the Copper Basin Crawl and Brewery Tour! Meet friends (old and new) ... try new things! Downtown McCaysville & Copperhill, 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM Saturdays Out Of The Blue Wine Tasting Blue Ridge, GA. Drinking alcohol is just drinking. Wine is a lifestyle. Gourmet Living.

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

Visit www.outofzbleu.com

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

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

706.258.2762 or www.fanninbrewingcompany.com Ongoing Thurs - Sat Grumpy Old Men Brewing Dog & kid friendly. 1315 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA. 770-331-8870/404-9662665, grumpyoldmenbrewing. com Ongoing Mon- Sun Valley River Brewery & Eatery Located in Historic Downtown Murphy, NC at 71 Tennessee Street. 828-837-BEER or www.valleyriverbrewery.com Ongoing Thurs- Sun Cartecay River Brewing Co. Ellijay, GA. Thurs - Sun. Craft beers on the river. At 26 River Terrace, Ellijay, GA 30540.

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

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

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

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AC LIVING HISTORY

history of indian georgia

– Cherokee Tribal Court

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

J

The Notable Judge John Martin

John Martin 1784-1840 was General Joseph Martin’s nephew. His father was Joseph’s brother John. John was a white Virginia trader. Joseph was appointed the first Indian agent after the Revolutionary War in 1775, serving in both Virginia and NC. John Martin had been reared (although books say raised, granny always said you rear children and raise cotton), in the Tugaloo River Valley between Georgia and South Carolina. When his father died, he inherited a number of slaves and property that was on the wrong side of the Chattahoochee River in Georgia – wrong side meaning it wasn’t in the territory declared

by George Washington and Henry Knox after the Revolution to be Cherokee Nation of Georgia. He was granted 640 acres on the east side of the river, when he refused to move. About four years later, after continued harassment, he moved to the other side of river and was one of the few lucky ones to have sold his property instead of having it confiscated. He had been a member of the Cherokee delegation to Washington, DC in 1818 and signer of one of the treaties in 1819.

Some researches just assumed since the last names were the same that General Joseph was John’s father. It wasn’t until they figured out who his mother was that they learned it was John “Jack” Martin. His mother was Susannah Emory 30

1751-1839, a quarter blood Cherokee who had been reared in the Cherokee Nation. Her parents were William Emory who had been born in England and died in South Carolina 1726-1770 and Mary Grant 1729-1766. Mary’s father was Ludovic Grant who was born in Scotland and died in South Carolina. Mary’s mother was full blood Cherokee Elizabeth Eughioote Coody Corntassel.

John “Jack” Martin was Susannah’s third husband. Her first two husbands were John Stuart and Richard Fields. With John Stuart she had one son John Bushyhead Stuart. There seems to be contention that there possibly was two Susannah Emorys. Some of the Tennessee historical records state that John Martin’s mother never had a son named Bushyhead. She had four or five sons with Richard Fields; John Fox, Richard, George, Thomas and Turtle (who became a minister). With Jack Martin she had one son John (known later as Judge John) and three daughters Lucy, Nancy and Rachel. As often happens there are numerous inconsistencies of history and heritage on the Internet. You can’t even trust books written about some of these genealogical variables. The information here was gathered from descendants and is correct as far as is known.

John married two Cherokee sisters Lucy in 1807 and Eleanor McDaniel in1810.

After repeated harassment by the Georgia Militia at his home on the Coosawattee River he moved in 1836 to Red Hill Valley in Tennessee before totally moving his family to Oklahoma in 1839. He was described as having curly blond hair and blue eyes and could have easily passed for white. He was highly educated in the ways of the Cherokee, had no formal training in the law, but was one of the first men to be appointed to serve as Judge in the Cherokee Tribal Court System established in 1822. The title of judge stuck with him for the rest of his days. He was elected as the first chief justice in the 1839 Indian Territory West and served until his death in 1840.

He had fathered seven (some say eight) children with each of his wives. Polygamy was common among the Indians of the 19th century, especially those who had chosen not to become Christians. ACLM

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Above: The first Cherokee Nation courthouse built in Indian Territory.

Monument to Judge John Martin in the Cherokee Nation Capital at Tahlequah, OK. Left: Judge Martin’s son Joseph Lynch Martin 1820-1891.

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/ DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

Celebrate Mardi Gras at the 9th Annual

Bringin’ the Blues to Blue Ridge®

Saturday February 22, 2020 6 to 10pm - Mercier Orchards

Benefiting Snack in a Backpack • Feeding Youth • Fighting Hunger Join the Mardi Gras Celebration for a Good Cause!

Great Music, Dancing, Gourmet Cajun Buffet, and Auction!

Advance Tickets: $50 or $90 per couple $60 at the door Includes Appetizers, Dinner, Dessert, Cash Bar

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Bring Your Dancin’ Shoes! Live Music by the Fabulous Crossroads Band

For Tickets, Sponsorships, and Information backpackfannin@gmail.com or call 706. 851. 8174

DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

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A New Way of Living in Blue Ridge Including 18 Holes of World-Class Golf!

Gated and Secure

Membership to Golf, Fly Fishing and Other Sporting Activities

R E A L E S TAT E • M E M B E R S H I P 706. 946. HOME

Small Cottages from $262,000 Custom Homes from $500,000 Homesites from $80,000

TEE TIMES 706. 946. GOLF

O L D T O C C O A FA R M . C O M 596 CURTIS SWITCH ROAD

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