Appalachian Country Living, Dec 2020-Jan 2021

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

Where People, Lifestyle & Design Live Together

WHY HIRING A LANDSCAPE DESIGN PROFESSIONAL IS WORTH THE COST DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

FESTIVE CAKES THAT SHOULD MAKE EVEN THE GRINCH HAPPY APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS IN THE NORTH GEORGIA MOUNTAINS WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

1

Furniture • Mattresses • Appliances • Home Decor FREE Delivery Available • Everyday 0% Financing

$200 OFF

PURCHSE OF $1199+ 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 2/27/21.

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

A

As if 2020 could get any worse, my little old man Billy Zoom, passed away in my arms. I adopted him from rescue because a local vet erroneously (twice) said he had cancer, and no one else wanted a hospice dog. The first 6 months or so were rough since I thought he could die at any moment, and we all kind of joked about it. However, when I took him to my vet, Dr. Karen Ortley at Cohutta Animal Clinic, we discovered no cancer!

We couldn’t accurately determine his age, but it was obvious that he’d been fending for himself for quite some time and was never a house dog. He had buckshot and plastic pellets under his skin and Billy Zoom was a tough little guy, not his right front leg looked like it much ever kept him down. He had a had been caught in a claw trap. He good end-of-life run and I ended up had a collapsing trachea, a rapid loving him ‘til his last breath. heartbeat, suffered from separation anxiety, and loved to get into the trash. Billy Zoom was with me for five years and he turned out to be a pretty darned good dog. I sure do miss the little feller, he was quite the character. Maxine, a bit mopey at first, has now accepted the new situation and seems almost too happy to be the only dog.

In this issue I invite you to take a look at Old Toccoa Farm, “Where People, Lifestyle & Design Live Together.” Only five miles from downtown Blue Ridge, Old Toccoa Farm is an unpretentious, amenity-based community on 400+ acres at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains. I live right down the road from there, and it truly is a gorgeous place.

Artist in Residence, Betty Kossick’s poems celebrating our local artisans, artfully describe a moment in time, yet she also reminds us to honor and support our small shops, artists, and galleries.

Yep, before you know it’s the Holidays. The annual gift guide will give you great ideas on how and where to shop small, and shop local. Part of the fun is tracking down a special gift, out here in the crisp air, and avoiding the Mall. Wear your mask, wash your hands, social distance. Let’s keep everyone safe.

Usually here I write about what goes in the next issue, February March. Who knows what will happen by then? So I don’t know what to say here, except hoping for the best outcome in fighting COVID-19.

I also wanted to thank Lorrie Bryan Gaulden for helping me out by writing the Black Bear Antiques article. Her experience in writing and publishing is much appreciated.

Please stay safe so that Maxine and I can wish you happiness this same time, same placde– next year!

ARTIST IN RESIDENCE Betty Kossick | bkwrites4u@hotmail.com GARDEN| LANDSCAPE EDITOR Steve Montgomery | steve@smac.biz 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 Position Open ADVERTISING SALES SOUTH Ellijay, Talking Rock, Jasper, Ball Ground, Canton & Woodstock, GA Position Open 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 Ande Cook, Peter Knutzen, Jerry Muclow Photgraphy, Square Frame Media, Maxine & RIP Billy Zoom

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING MAGAZINE PO Box 1250, Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706. 492. 5070 hello@blueridgemediagroup.com www.aclivingmagazine.com Billy would not wear the mask for this photo, but he looks pretty darn handsome in that bandanna! He was never a willing particpant when it came to photos.

4

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 2020/JANUARY 2021

Celebrating Our Local Artisans Needlewoman She shops at the mercantile, Seeking the very finest Of cloth and the lovely threads, To apply with her needles, To design most lovely quilts for the city-folk’s soft beds.

Her work is quite singular, Each quilt of the rarest kind; Well-made for bedding for the rich.

Tedious her needlework, Sewn with care, beauteous, too, Rarest art in every stitch.

She also sews for other folks Who live with simpler means, They, too, acquire quilts from her; Though more modest in expense, Without grand embellishment: Still making beauty yet simpler.

The needlewoman she’s called As her clients “ooh” and “aah” To see each new masterpiece, Her keen needle’s artful choice; Thus, her quilting is unique-Esthetic stitches to please.

DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

Betty Kossick, Artist in Residence

The Smithy Artisan Gold fire and the anvil Tests the blacksmiths, Who craft necessity-From white-hot iron: The minutest nail, The lock and key, A fence with gate, Household ironware, Or need of horse’s shoe; So, farrier, as well, to keep Equestrian in trot and step, Indeed, an artist true!

The Potter’s Mark It’s an old shop, the potter’s place, I come to visit often, to watch.

I sit in mouse-like silence.

For me it’s a form of meditation To take it all in, the creation, True beauty from a blob.

Like the aged shop, the potter is old And bent from age and craft: I sense his love of art.

The potter carefully holds the clay, The wheel spins and a shape Comes forth: I sigh!

Though needed yet a touch of color With glaze of embellishment, Muted paint applied.

And more, a kiln, a blazing heat; Yet rudimentary grace is there,’ Even before the fire.

Pictured here with her husband Johnny, Betty Kossick is an award-winning freelance journalist, her byline has appeared in numerous newspapers and magazines over the decades. She’s known for her interviews with celebrities such as Alex Haley, Col. Jim Irwin and General Norman H. Schwarzkopf.

After living and writing from five states, she continues freelancing from her retirement community in Florida. Writing small novels which are available on Amazon, she is also an award winning poet. Kossick, now in her ‘90s, is still an active award winning poet, freelance writer and journalist. Here at Appalachian Country Magazine, we consider Betty a true treasure.

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

The potter takes great pains to tell The clay comes from the earth, Right here beside his home.

Thus, when you buy his earthenware, Handful of clay, turned vessel, You take a part of him.

Created from southern hill beside Old master’s busy pottery shop: A mark of art to cherish.

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

5

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

11 Outdoor Renovations

The Benefits of Hiring a Professional Landscape Designer

Holiday Cakes

14 Old Toccoa Farm

A Place Where People, Lifestyle, & Design Live Together

18 Holiday Cakes

Move Over Cookies, Forget Auntie’s Fruit Cakes,We All Deserve a Bit of Indulgence This Year

18

22 Shop Local 2020

Avoid the Crowds and Practice Social Distancing While Supporting our Communities

SHOP LOCAL GIFT GUIDE

26 Happenings for the Holidays

Please Wear Your Mask and Enjoy the Fun of Winter in the Mountains

IVINGMA WWW.ACL

ON THE COVER

GAZINE.C OM | DECE MBER 2020 Y 2021 /JANUAR

le, Where Peop

ve Together Design Li Lifestyle &

APE A LANDSC WHY HIRING ESSIONAL OF DESIGN PR E COST TH IS WORTH UARY 2021

R 2020 /JAN

DECEMBE

6

KES THAT FESTIVE CA KE EVEN SHOULD MA HAPPY H INC THE GR G

TRY LIVIN

IAN COUN

APPALACH

PPENINGS HOLIDAY HA H GEORGIA RT IN THE NO MOUNTAINS E.COM

MAGAZIN

VING WWW.ACLI

1

Just 90 minutes from Atlanta, tucked perfectly into the foothills of the world’s oldest mountain range, you will find the town of Blue Ridge, Georgia, an historic mountain town that has never lost its identity or compromised is local authenticity. Safely protected between the million+ acre Chattahoochee and Cherokee National Forests, Blue Ridge offers social distancing on an epic scale. Here, nature stands center-stage, far removed from the crowds and unrest. s

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

18

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

22

DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

26

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

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

RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT

CABIN COFFEE DOWNTOWN BLAIRSVILLE

Fresh Roasted Coffee Everyday Wood Fired Pizza, Gourmet Dogs, Sandwiches, Salads, Local Beer, Live Music & Hippie Stuff!

Food Truck & Hippie Dippies Ice Cream Truck Avaialble for Your Special Event!

706.946.0378 4118 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA w w w.mysticmountainpizzaco.com

I-FI FREE W

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

44A Town Square Blairsville, GA 30512

706. 745. 0073

CabinCoffeeCompany.com Like us on FB / CabinCoffeeBlairsville

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

Call Us Today!

706.492.5070 DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

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 for over 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

PoolesBBQ.com APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Facebook “f ” Logo

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

CMYK / .eps

Facebook “f ” Logo

7

CMYK / .eps

Blue Ridge Coin Shop and Collectibles

Around Back at Rocky’s Place

The Ultimate Folk Art Gallery in the South!

THE LITTLE STORE THAT PAYS YOU MORE!

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

Best Selection by “Cornbread” in the Universe!

Call or Email for an appointment weekdays or weekends

1901 Appalachian Hwy Blue Ridge, GA In the Dogwood Plaza

Xmas Ornamnents! Cornbread Guinea Chicks Howard Finster Santa and Self Portrait

706. 632. 3127

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

www.BlueRidgeCoinShop.com

706. 265. 6030

www.aroundbackatrockysplace.com

Eclectic Art, Paintings, Pottery, Jewlery, Unique Gifts!

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

VISIT US IN COPPERHILL, TN AND FIND THE PERFECT GIFT!

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

MON: 2 - 8PM | THURS, FRI, SAT: 12 - 8PM | SUN: 12 - 6PM For Hours and More Information Contact Us at (423) 548-0000 or fatraccoonart@gmail.com 121 Ocoee Street, Suite 2, Copperhill, TN 37317 8

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

706.431.7141 Facebook “f” Logo

CMYK / .ai

Facebook “f” Logo

160 OCOEE STREET, COPPERHILL, TN 37317

WWW.BUCKBALDBREWING.COM

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

CMYK / .ai

AC LIVING STYLE & DESIGN

Minimizing Your Energy Footprint Style & Design Editor Cindy Trimble Considers Lighting

by Design an Integral Part of Sustainability Rounded corners on counter tops, and an open living plan help prevent injuries.

S

Sustainability has been the buzz word for the past 20+ years on so many levels. The Southern Appalachians are mostly a vast wilderness with small towns and a few larger cities. We are not impacted by the environmental disasters that a lot of other parts of the country and world are seeing. Our world is large, but in the end, it does have a limited amount of resources. The protection of our resources is what sustainability is all about. We all need to be environmentally responsible and cognizant of things we can do to support a long-term ecological balance.

We are currently in the midst of the “Green Movement” revolution. Being green is a conscious effort to be environmentally responsible with development of technology, with social practices as applied to all built and living environments. There is a huge push to reevaluate our energy sources and to focus on renewable fuels whose impact is much less on the earth and our environment. Fossil fuels and coal are not renewable. They have a negative impact on the environment with their extraction from the earth and their exhausts when they are burned to create energy. Electric and solar are much better resources with minimal impact on the earth.

Energy efficiency is also critically important to our built environments. There are a lot of movements intended to educate and encourage us to use less energy, again to minimize our impact on the earth. There are all sorts of new energy efficient products such as LED bulbs, electric cars, sensor systems that turns lights on and off so that energy is not used when no one is using a space. There are smart appliances that use less energy. This takes education and effort to find and use these products.

How about recycling and composting which have been popular for many years? One element that has gained a lot of attention lately is plastic that does not decompose. Companies are working hard to find an alternate material to DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

Above: LED lighting uses less energy than other types of light bulbs. This places less demand on our energy grid and, ultimately, less demand on the natural resources used to power that grid.

Left: Light on motion detection is another way to go green by eliminating the possibility that the lights will accidentally be left on.

plastic (a petro-chemical by product) but it is so prevalent in our word. Just try to count the number of plastic items you touch in one day – it will blow your mind, from your bedding to your clothes, food containers, elevator button, flooring, car seats, house parts, toys, household items, etc. Plastics take an eternity to decompose and have started creating huge trash piles in our oceans and landfills. Plastic has a decomposition time of over 1000 years unlike paper which takes hours to days to decompose and return to a renewable material.

How have things changed? Many countries have made the protection of the earth their priority and have implemented laws that restrict certain practices and products. Overall, it is a trickle-down concept from our government to APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

our own homes. It not only takes regulations to get things going, but it takes education of the public, and then an acceptance by the public.

Our firm tries to use green and renewable products whenever possible. These are products that are made close by, do not have “off-gassing” of chemicals when they are installed. They are made from safe, renewable materials. Our firm incorporates recycle stations in kitchens and utilizes LED lighting whenever possible. We encourage the use of solar shades and window treatments to help with solar gain and the overuse of air conditioning. The list is endless.

It takes education and implementation. ACLM Cindy Trimble, ASID is owner of StudioTrimble, Inc. based in Blue Ridge. She is NCIDQ certified and a Georgia Registered Interior Designer.

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

9

How the Deer Won His Antlers AND OTHER NATIVE AMERICAN CHEROKEE LEGENDS PASSED DOWN THROUGH TIME

The Little Deer, Awi Usdi

Back when the world was young, the humans and the animal people could speak to each other.

At first they lived in peace. The humans hunted the animals only when they needed food or skins to make clothing. Then the humans discovered the bow and arrow. With this weapon they could kill many animals quickly and with great ease. They began to kill animals when they did not need them for food or clothing. It seemed as if all the animals in the world would soon be exterminated. So the various animals met in council.

When the bears came together and talked about what the humans were doing, they decided they would have to fight back. “How can we do that?” said one of the bear warriors. “The humans will shoot us with their arrows before we come close to them.”

Old Bear, their chief, agreed. “That is true. We must learn how to use the weapons they use.”

Then the bears made a very strong bow and fashioned arrows for it. But whenever they tried to use the bow, their long claws got in the way.

“I will cut off my claws,” said one of the bear warriors. He did so and then he was able to use the bow and arrow. His aim was good and he hit the mark every time.

“That is good,” said Old Bear. “Now can you climb this tree?” The bear without claws tried to climb the tree, but he failed. Old Bear shook his head.

“This will not do. Without our claws we cannot climb trees. Without oclaws we will not be able to hunt or dig for food. We must give up this idea of using the same weapons the humans use.”

So the bears gave up their idea of fighting back against the humans with weapons.

10

One by one each of the animal groups met.

One by one they came to no conclusion. It seemed there was no way to fight back. But the last group to meet was the deer.

Awi Usdi, Little Deer, was their leader. When all were gathered together, he spoke.

“I see what we must do,” he said. “’We cannot stop the humans from hunting animals.

That is the way it was meant to be. However, the humans are not doing things in the right way. If they do not respect us and hunt us only when there is real need, they may kill us all.

I shall go now and tell the hunters what they must do. Whenever they wish to kill a deer, they must prepare in a ceremonial way. They must ask me for permission to kill one of us. Then, after they kill a deer, they must show respect to its spirit and ask for pardon. If the hunters do not do this, then I shall track them down. With my magic I will make their limbs crippled. Then they will no longer be able to walk or shoot a bow and arrow.”

Then Awi Usdi, Little Deer, did as he said.

He went at night and whispered into the ears of the hunters, telling them what they must do.The next morning, when they awoke, some of the hunters thought they had been dreaming and they were not sure that the dream was a true.

How The Deer Got His Horns

In the beginning the Deer had no horns, but his head was smooth just like a doe’s.

He was a great runner and the Rabbit was a great jumper, and the animals were all curious to know which could go farther in the same time. They talked about it a good deal, and at last arranged a match between the two, and made a nice large pair of antlers for a prize to the winner.

They were to start together from one side

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

of a thicket and go through it, then turn and come back, and the one who came out first was to get the horns.

On the day fixed all the animals were there, with the antlers put down on the ground at the edge of the thicket to mark the starting point.

While everybody was admiring the horns the Rabbit said: “I don’t know this part of the country; I want to take a look through the bushes where I am to run.” They thought that all right, so the Rabbit went into the thicket, but he was gone so long that at last the animals suspected he must be up to one of his tricks. They sent a messenger to look for him, and away in the middle of the thicket he found the Rabbit gnawing down the bushes and pulling them away until he had a road cleared nearly to the other side.

The messenger turned around quietly and came back and told the other animals. When the Rabbit came out at last they accused him of cheating, but he denied it until they went into the thicket and found the cleared road. They agreed that such a trickster had no right to enter the race at all, so they gave the horns to the Deer, who was admitted to be the best runner, and he has worn them ever since. They told the Rabbit that as he was so fond of cutting down bushes he might do that for a living hereafter, and so he does to this day. ACLM Illustrations by Ande Cook.

Find and purchase her work at: www.andecookstudio.com, Ande Cook Studio 1820 Briarwood IndustrialCourt, Suite 4 Brookhaven GA 30329.

Email: ande@andecookstudio.com Call: (706) 489-9765 and leave a message.

DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

AC LIVING GARDEN & LANDSCAPE

Hiring a design professional pays Garden and Landscape Editor Steve Montgomery Discusses the Benefits of Hiring a Professional Landscape Designer

S

So, you’re at home much more this year than you were in the past with all the crazy things going on in the world and you’ve decided to improve your property. Updating the kitchen, remodeling a bathroom, and painting a bedroom or two are common upgrades.

Then there’s the outside, you want to do something, but you’re not sure exactly what. You have some general ideas but how do you put it all together so that it makes sense and does what you want or hope for?

Does it make sense to hire a landscape/hardscape designer/architect for your mountain property or any other property? Do you really want someone else telling you what you should and should not do to your property? The answer is, YES. Would you do anything on the inside without a plan or plan of action, NO. The same is true for the outside as well, especially the outside as it can be overly complicated to plan for and to execute. Let’s walk through the advantages and one disadvantage of hiring a professional designer/architect so that you can make an educated decision.

Right away I’ll tell you that the disadvantage of hiring a professional is the cost, but as you will see, that is easily explained away. A designer/ architect will charge a wide range of fees for the services they offer. The fees can be as low as $200 to $300 for a quick on-site sketch and consultation up to several thousand dollars for a detailed 2d design and 3d modeling images. So, let’s look at the several levels of service you can get from a professional.

A designer usually has a lot of hands-on experience and some, or a lot of education in this realm. They may also have a degree in horticulture or another related discipline, but designers are not registered architects with credentials. An architect has a degree in landscape architecture, is certified, registered and has an official stamp to put on their plans. Architects often charge more for their services than a non-registered designer.

But that doesn’t mean that their services are better. Quality service depends squarely on the individual.

What are the normal services that you can expect to get from a designer or a registered architect? As stated earlier, at the lower end, you can get a quick sketch (see example above) and consultation for a couple of hundred dollars.

This would be appropriate for a smaller, specific space that you want to improve or change.

The next level cost-wise would a full design plan (see example on next page) for the front and back yard areas that addresses all of the challenges and details of your property, usually presented on a 24” x 36” paper and a PDF file. This will include all the items you may be considering, things like a pool, a water feature, a fire pit, walls, lawn areas, plants, irrigation, drainage, lighting, steps, decks, and patios are considerations. You can expect to pay in the range of several hundred dollars to a few thousand, depending on who you hire and the size of the project.

You can also have 3D modeling done in the design phase as well (see example on next page).

This is great for people who have a difficult time visualizing the finished product. You can expect to pay $1-2k for this service depending on the size and the designer.

The next level of service is having the professional oversee the build phase of the project. You have a couple of options here. You can take the

DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

At the lower end of the cost spectrum you can get a quick sketch and consultation for a couple of hundred dollars. This would be appropriate for a smaller, specific space that you want to improve or change. design and then get bids on the project from build companies yourself or turn this over to your designer. The designer is a great resource for getting bids for you, as it’s not just the price that you should be looking at, it’s the details. A professional will be able to see those details and qualify the bid. In my experience I have seen many times where people hire someone because the price was lower and then get burned with a project half done or very poor quality work that will have to be re-done in the near future. A third option here is to take the design and install it yourself over time depending on your level or desire for the workload and your knowledge.

Next would be If the company/professional is a design/build firm, you can get a quote from them and use them to install the project. Here you get the benefit of having the designer oversee the project to make sure everything is done the way it should be and the way you envisioned it.

Usually this is not for any additional fees as the designer is part of the build firm and gets compensation from them. If the designer is not part of a build firm, then you can hire them to oversee who you do hire to ensure the quality and the success of the project. This is usually charged on an hourly basis and agreed to ahead of time.

By going through this process with a professional you’ll get the benefit of a tremendous amount of knowledge and experience which is invaluable. A professional knows plants– when they bloom, how big they get (plants are often WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

11

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.

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

Shop early to get your size.

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

Books • Patterns • Needles Notions • Purse Handles

Knit & Crochet Classes for Beginners to Advanced

Good Company Great Music

706.698.KNIT

•

Tasty Food Cold Drinks Lots of Fun!

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

Weekly Specials

•

Spectacular Cocktails

FEB MARCH 2020 ISSUE

VALNETINE’S DAY ST. PATRICK’S DAY

M I STY MOU NTAI N HOPS

VI NYL PU B

706. 946. 8620

ADVERTISING DEADLINE

WED THRU SAT: NOON - 9PM

REACH 30,000 READERS

JANUARY 5th

CALL TODAY! 706. 492. 5070

3 00 EAST 1ST STREET

BLUE RIDGE, GA

MISTYMTNHOPS.COM BlueRidgeMountainTrailRides.com 12

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

alice@blueridgemediagroup.com DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

AC LIVING GARDEN & LANDSCAPE

planted in the wrong place and become a real problem down the road), are they evergreen or deciduous, and what plants can be used for privacy? Are the plants deer and pest resistant?

Or what about plants that help control insects (Permaculture), a professional knows what is best for your area/region and more. Then there’s the hardscape– where does it make sense to place the patio, the fire pit, the water feature, the pool, the outdoor kitchen, the arbor, or the pavilion? Also, a professional will consider the amount of both sun and shade, drainage issues and many other factors will insure the best outcome for your project. There’s also the overall consideration of how does the project flow for accessibility and use? This is a major consideration that most people don’t really think about. A professional will be able to assess and meet requirements by the jurisdiction for permitting and code compliance. This can be complicated. Many times, the biggest challenges are the actual rules laid out by the jurisdiction as these rules will dictate where things can and cannot go. For example, there are setbacks on most properties that don’t allow certain structures to be built within those areas.

This can require a lot of creativity to make your plan work. There are also many times a homeowner’s association has rules that must be met.

This brings me to probably the biggest asset that you get from a professional and that is creativity. Along with experience, and knowledge, you get creativity. Being able to come up with DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

Above: A full design plan for the front and back yard areas that addresses all of the challenges and details of your property, usually presented on a 24” x 36” paper and a PDF file.

Left: 3D modeling done in the design phase is great for people who have a difficult time visualizing the finished product.

great and fantastic ideas and then making them work for your space is probably the biggest challenge a designer will face. Figuring out creative ways to solve problems and make something look amazing is a big one.

Having a professional designer watch over the project and answer your questions is key to making sure everything is done right. This avoids potential costly mistakes and additional cost. A professional can also reduce problems like plants dying because they are not in the right place, APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

failing inspections from lack of compliance, and much more.

As you can see there are a lot of things to consider to insure a successful outcome. A professional will be highly creative and knowledgeable for a project to come out beautiful and functional. Is it worth spending the money to get an expert’s opinion and knowledge? I would say in most cases absolutely. It’s money well spent, and will most likely save you money in the long run.

I’ve been doing this for a long time and I know for sure that finding and hiring a good creative designer/architect does not cost, it pays. ACLM Steve Montgomery and Company has extensive knowledge in the areas of landscape, hardscape, construction of outdoor structures, water features and pools.

Steve Montgomery and Company.

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

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

13

14

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

Where People, Lifestyle & Design Live Together

DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

15

Old Toccoa Farm.

The Time is Right, the Lifestyle is Essential.

Just 90 minutes from Atlanta,

tucked perfectly into the foothills of the world’s oldest mountain range, you will find the town of Blue Ridge, Georgia, an historic mountain town that has never lost its identity or compromised is local authenticity. Safely protected between the million+ acre Chattahoochee and Cherokee National Forests, Blue Ridge offers social distancing on an epic scale. Here, nature stands center-stage, far removed from the crowds and unrest.

As the lockdowns from the early days of the pandemic loosened their grip, Blue Ridge quickly became a haven for those on the move.

“We had been visiting Blue Ridge frequently for several years now and had it on our radar as a possible destination to move to in a few years, but as we began to navigate through the pandemic, we decided not to wait any longer and we purchased a lot in Old Toccoa Farm.”

With 24/7 manned and gated security, a worldrenowned golf course and home architecture that is more mountain home than mountain cabin, Old Toccoa Farm is benefiting from the

16

surge in real estate activity. “After we opened the full 18-holes last September, we have experienced steady a healthy uptick in real estate sales. After the lockdowns in May were removed, not only has real estate activity been exceptional, our membership sales have been robust and our rounds of golf have been off the charts. For the first time in the history of golf, golf has become an essential exercise.” We feel fortunate that we have a product that people are starving for and we know this is a true blessing. There are many who are not doing so well and we’re doing all we can to assist those who have been negatively affected this past year.

Here words like quiet charm, preservation, and authenticity mean something and people are searching for this as a way of life and not just a vacation. Local breweries with outdoor seating, wineries with open air pavilions, local restaurants with outdoor dining have created safe havens for small groups of people to enjoy life. Couple that with miles and miles of walking trails, crystal clear lakes, and rivers, and there is no wonder why people are attracted to the Blue Ridge area. “At Old Toccoa Farm, our focus is to

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

create an environment where our members and visiting guests can enjoy the best of what Blue Ridge offers, with the added social component that can only be achieved through membership.

“The golf course and community are beautiful but the real value here at Old Toccoa Farm are the people. We have met so many wonderful people and we owe it to our membership to Old Toccoa Farm. Even at our age, in our mid 60’s, we have developed new friendships that will stay with us for the rest of our lives. It’s just awesome here.”

Many of our members like to tell me that Blue Ridge is the college town for adults and Old Toccoa Farm is the residential housing for us adult college students. They may not be enrolled in school per se, but they are enjoying the combination of meeting new people, participating in an activity-based lifestyle and living in beautiful mountain homes. It’s no wonder Old Toccoa Farm’s tagline is “where people, lifestyle and design live together.

For those unfamiliar with Old Toccoa Farm, it’s a 400+ acre mountain lifestyle community, conveniently located 5-miles from downtown DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

Blue Ridge, offering well maintained walking trails, 4,300+ feet of Toccoa River frontage for kayaking and fly fishing, and a golf course that was recently nominated for Golf Digest’s “Best New Course in America 2020”. In addition, in 2021, Old Toccoa Farm will be opening 17, one-bedroom, overnight stay accommodations for golfers and visiting prospects along with the highly anticipated, Old Toccoa Farm Tavern (think great burgers and salads). The hospitality component of Old Toccoa Farm will be kicking into gear and so too will a full calendar of member activities and programs. “We are just hoping that restrictions we have been living through these past 9 months subside and we can all get back to a healthy activity-based lifestyle with our friends and families.”

Their new tagline, “where people, lifestyle and design live together,” is truly what you see and experience each day when on property. You will notice the lifestyle immediately upon arrival, any day of the week. A healthy combination of member play and public play fills the teesheet and has the course thriving. You will also see members and guests enjoying scheduled

yoga classes down by the river, and member couples walking their dogs on the nature trails.

Off-property, members who enjoy boating and socializing on Lake Blue Ridge, including “Friday Night Tie-Ups”. Other water enthusiasts have enjoyed kayaking down the Toccoa River or wetting a line from the expansive Toccoa River frontage offered inside the gates of Old Toccoa Farm. Trout rise here and the fishery is a special place for seasoned anglers or those just getting started. And as the leaves begin to drop and the cool mountain breezes turns to frost in the mornings, this mountain community transitions once again. The late fall and winter welcome’s small gatherings of friends and families around the community fire pits, and the smell and sounds of crackling fires fills the air. Maybe even a brief snowfall to blanket the ground and this community truly offers a four seasons life for its members.

Georgia’s favorite mountain town, with its charming downtown and cool vibe, coupled with Old Toccoa Farm, an unpretentious amenity-based community, provides those looking for a new way and a new place to

DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

live, with something special to consider. With over $20 million in new home construction scheduled for winter 2020 and spring 2021, now is the time to visit Old Toccoa Farm– there has never been a better time! To schedule a visit and learn more about Old Toccoa Farm call 706.946.4653. ACLM

Real Estate & Membership Sales Golf Tee Times 706.946.4653 Visit their website: oldtoccoafarm.com Photos by: Jerry Mucklow Photography, jerrymucklow.com Squareframe Media, squareframemedia.com

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

17

Holiday Cakes

18

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

AC LIVING RECIPES

The table is set with crisp white linen, your Mother’s favorite china and your Grandmother’s lovingly polished silver. The aromas of spice and nature’s winter evergreen, are accented by the warm glow of flickering candles. Our gatherings may be smaller this year, only to strengthen our wishes for health and happiness– hope for kinder year to come. As we raise our glass to toast loved ones, our resilience, and care for one another, we stop to take a breath and celebrate that which we have. We sincerely hope that one of these gorgeous cakes on the table brings a small bit of deserved luxury that will raise us up for whatever lies ahead.

Merry Christmas Pomegranate Cake

Ingredients for Syrup 1 1/2 cups Pomegranate Juice (POM brand) 2 Tbsp sugar

This Christmas Pomegranate cake will surely make your holidays merrier and brighter.

Ingredients For the Pomegranate Cream Frosting 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened to room temp 3 cups powdered sugar 1/4 tsp fine sea salt 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened to room temp and cut into 16 pieces 4 Tbsp of Pomegranate juice (POM brand)

Ingredients for the Cake Layers 6 large eggs, room temp (if cold, put them in warm water 15 min) 1 cup sugar 1/2 tsp baking powder 1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour *measured correctly 1/2 tsp vanilla Ingredients for Pomegranate Topping 6 ounces (3/4 cup) pomegranate juice (Pom Wonderful) 2 tsp unflavored gelatin powder (I used Knox brand) 1 tsp vanilla 2 Tbsp Sugar Seeds of one large Pomegranate (1 1/4 to 1 1/2 cups)

DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

Making Pomegranate Cake If you never made a European Sponge Cake, you might want to do a little research: 1. Preheat Oven to 350˚F. Line the bottoms of two 9” cake pans with parchment paper.

2. Combine 6 eggs and 1 cup sugar in the bowl of your electric mixer and beat on high speed for 12 minutes or until tripled in volume and fluffy.

Whisk together 1 cup flour and 1/2 tsp baking powder then Sift it into the beaten eggs in 2 additions, folding it in with a spatula just until all of the flour is incorporated. Drizzle in 1/2 APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

tsp vanilla and blend together. Remember that you are relying on the fluffy air-infused batter for the cake to rise. DO NOT OVERMIX or your cake won’t rise well.

3. Transfer your batter to your buttered and lined cake pans. Set aside.

4. Bake at 350˚F for 25-28 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean (poke the side, not the center so your center won’t cave) and don’t open the oven until 25 minutes have past. Let the cakes cool down on wire racks, then remove from the pans.

Making the Syrup for the Soaking the Cake Layers 1. Combine 1 1/2 cups Pomegranate Juice (POM brand) with 2 Tbsp sugar and stir to combine. Set aside to and stir occasionally until sugar is all dissolved.

Making the Frosting 1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, mix the 2 sticks of butter with 3 cups powdered sugar and salt on low speed or until combined (1 min) Don’t start on high speed or you will be surrounded in a cloud WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

19

medium heat, stirring, until sugar dissolves and mixture is steaming.

3. Remove from heat and let it cool down a bit (or transfer into a mixing bowl if you don’t want to wait for the ice bath) then set the saucepan into a larger bowl of ice water, stirring gently until it is cold and slightly thickened but not set. It doesn’t take long so stay with it. Remove from the ice bath.

4. Stir in pomegranate seeds and immediately spoon topping onto the chilled cake. Refrigerate your cake until the topping is set (about 1 hour).

Source: www.natashaskitchen.com

Naked Champagne Cake This indulgent recipe, is simply perfect for the Holidays. We omitted half of the champagne buttercream icing to try the “naked cake” trend, and kept it simple with a gold candle and a few sprigs of greenery.

Ingredients 3 cups all-purpose flower 3 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter 2 cups sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 6 egg whites 2 cups champagne

of powdered sugar (lessons learned). Increase speed to medium-high and beat until the mixture is pale and fluffy (2 min).

2. Add cream cheese 1-piece at a time and mix until combined. (I waited maybe 3 seconds in between each piece; toss them in one after another. Once all of the cream cheese is incorporated, scrape down the sides and continue to beat 1 more minute on med/high speed. The cream should be smooth and lumpfree.

3. Add 4 Tbsp POM juice, 1 Tbsp at a time and mix on medium speed until combined (1 min). Refrigerate frosting until ready to use.

Assembling your Cake 1. Cut the cake layers in half so you end up with 4 layers. Place the first layer, cut-sideup on your serving platter. Brush 1/4 of the POM/sugar syrup over the first layer. Frost the top. Do this with all 4 layers. You only need 20

a very small amount of frosting on the very top of the cake since you are going to have the Pomegranate topping (and you’ll need the extra for the topping).

2. Wipe any excess syrup from the cake platter, then frost the top and sides.

3. Pipe your border. Used here is the large Wilton 1M star tip. You want a border that will contain a generous layer of pomegranate topping.

4. Refrigerate your cake for at least 30 minutes before adding the pomegranate topping.

Making the Pomegranate Topping Make this after your cake is done and in the fridge.

1. Place 3/4 cup of POM juice in a small sauce pan, add 1 tsp vanilla and sprinkle in 2 tsp gelatin. Let stand 1 minute to soften gelatin before putting it on the heat.

2. Whisk in 2 Tbsp sugar and cook over

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Preparation 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans (or cut parchment paper to fit).

2. In a bowl combine flour, baking powder + salt. In a mixing bowl beat butter and sugar 3 to 5 minutes until light and fluffy.

3. Add vanilla and beat in the eggs one at a time.

4. Beat in flour mixture and champagne in three alternating additions, starting and ending with flour to prevent curdling.

5. Pour batter into pans and bake 35 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let cool and then frost the middle and top layer only with Champagne Buttercream Frosting.

Champagne Buttercream Frosting 3/4 stick unsalted butter (room temp) 2 cups confectioners’ sugar 1/4 cup champagne 1/8 cup whole milk 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract In a mixing bowl beat butter 1 minute.

Gradually add the powdered sugar, champagne, milk and vanilla and continue beating until smooth and creamy.

Decorate for the Holidays and enjoy!

Source: www.theglitterguide.com

DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

Chocolate Raspberry Cake with Mascarpone Frosting If you’re still looking for a beautiful dessert idea for your holiday dinner, then look no further than this chocolate raspberry cake. This decadent holiday dessert recipe will produce a moist chocolate cake with a raspberry filling and a mascarpone frosting.?

Ingredients for the cake 1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 1/2 cups hot brewed coffee 3 cups sugar 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 1/2 cups unsweetened baking cocoa 2 tsp baking soda 3/4 tsp baking powder 1/8 tsp salt 3 large eggs 3/4 cup vegetable oil 1 1/2 cup low fat buttermilk 1 tsp vanilla extract Ingredients for the raspberry sauce 1 cup raspberry preserves 1/2 cup frozen raspberries, finely chopped 3 tbsp corn starch Ingredients for the frosting 1.5 cup mascarpone 1/2 cup unsalted butter 1 cup powdered sugar, or 1 1/4 cup, adjust to taste 2-4 tbsp heavy cream Ingredients for the design on top 1 pine branch/sprig 2 cinnamon sticks 1/2 cup fresh raspberries powdered sugar for dusting Preparation Make the Cake Layers 1.Preheat the oven to 300°F. Grease three 9” cake pans with baking spray and line bottoms with parchment paper.

2.To a medium size bowl, add the chocolate chips, then pour the hot coffee over them. Let it stand for a couple of minutes and then stir until the chocolate has melted.

3. In another bowl, sift together the sugar, flour, unsweetened cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

4. In a stand mixer or using an electric mixer, beat the eggs until thickened and a pale yellow color. Slowly add the oil, buttermilk, vanilla, and melted chocolate mixture to the eggs, beating until combined. Add the dry ingredients and beat just until combined.

5. Divide the batter between the three cake pans. Bake on the middle racks of the oven until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, anywhere from 40 minutes to 1 hour.

DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

6. Let the cakes rest in their pans until completely cool. If you have wire racks, set the pans on wire racks to cooler quicker. Then, invert the layers onto individual pieces of plastic wrap so that you can wrap each tightly until ready to use.

Make the Raspberry Filling 1. For the raspberry sauce filling, add the corn starch to a small saucepan and whisk to get rid of any clumps.

2. Add the raspberries and raspberry preserves to the pan. Cook over medium heat until everything is warm and heated through.

3. Pour into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate.

Make the Mascarpone Frosting 1. For the frosting, beat the mascarpone and butter in the bowl of a stand mixer or using an electric mixer until very fluffy and light.

2. Add in the powdered sugar and whisk while streaming in 2 tablespoons of cream. If the frosting is too thick, add 2 more tablespoons of cream, or as needed. Whisk the cream long enough to get it slightly clumpy if you want to achieve the snowy effect. Otherwise, simply whisk until the frosting is thick and smooth.

Assemble the Cake 1. Place your first cake layer on a cake board or cake stand. Smear (or pipe) a small bit of APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

frosting along the rim of the cake layer. This will act as a border for your raspberry filling.

2. Spoon raspberry sauce onto the center of the cake layer, spreading a thin layer with the back of the spoon, just until it reaches the frosting along the rim. The frosting acts as a barrier to keep the raspberry sauce from spilling over the edges.

2. Place the second cake layer on top, then add a frosting border along the rim and raspberry sauce to the center like you just did with the first layer.

3. Place the third cake layer on top, then use a rubber spatula to generously cover the top of the cake with mascarpone frosting and lightly smear the sides of the cake with your frosting too.

4. Place your pine sprig onto the center of the cake, along with a couple of cinnamon sticks, and fresh raspberries. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

5. Once you’re ready to serve, dust the entire top of the cake with powdered sugar.

Source: www.monpetitfour.com EDITOR’S TIP: Featured on page 19: Learn how to make edible, decorative pine cones for any cake: OH NUTS– Sweet and Crunchy Blog at : www.ohnuts.com/blog/chocolate-pinecones/

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

21

Happy Mountain Holidays tis the SEason to Shop small businesses for unique items that keep our local economies growing

22

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

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

With such a challenging year behind us, we all need extra love and support this Holiday season. As you choose gifts for your loved ones, consider shopping local. Your support will help local families continue traditions that have shaped our communities. Abernathy’s has faithfully served these very communities for over 130 years so you don’t have to look very far to find quality products, unbeatable prices and one-of-akind customer service. From furniture and mattresses to appliances and home decor, you’ll find something for everyone on your list. Abernathy’s Complete Home Furnishings, open Mon - Sat 9:00am - 5:30pm, 3310 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, GA 30513, (706) 492-3071, www.AbernathysFurniture.com.

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. Women’s & kid’s clothing?

Yep. Camping, fishing and outdoor gear? Yep. Furniture, appliances and housewares? Yep. Lawn mowers, 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

Around Back at Rocky’s Place

Gift those special folks in your life an original artwork to be enjoyed for years, and passed down to future generations.

Ponder these options; good ole Southern pottery, woodcarvings by leading masters, paintings along many themes, styles, and explosive colors, metal works, and smaller gift items like soap, jewelry, 2021 calendars, and ornaments. But, the gift on the list of most folk art aficionados is a painting by John “Cornbread” Anderson. We host the largest collection of Cornbread’s work in the universe. Shop the website at aroundbackatrockysplace.com or make an appointment to visit the gallery; call 706-265-6030 or email gallery@aroundbackatrockysplace.com.

Around Back at Rocky’s Place, 3631 Highway 53 East, Dawsonville, GA.

In search of the perfect gift this holiday season? With over 20,000 square feet and 50+ dealers, Black Bear Antiques, in Ellijay, has something for everyone. Unique items from vintage tableware, jewelry and art, to coins, trains, albums, and knives arrive daily!

Let Black Bear help you find an ideal holiday gift or a little thank you for all the party hosts. Black Bear Antiques is in Ingles Shopping center, 240-B Old Orchard Square, East Ellijay, GA 30540. Hours are Mon-Sat 10am-6pm and Sunday 12pm-6pm.

Check them out online at Facebook.com/BlackBearAntiques and blackbearantiques1 on Instagram. (706)635-2327

Blue Ridge Coin Shop

These Monarch 1 troy ounce silver building blocks are this year’s must have item. Each building block is minted of .999 pure fine silver and mimics the design of the legendary 2×4” brick. Each solid silver block is designed with stacking in mind. Their uniqueness makes a great gift for the kid at heart for any aged person! Silver itself makes a valuable gift, so why not have some fun with it! This idea works for kids, coin collectors, silver hoarders or for the person who has everything! Hours: Tues-Sat: 10:00am- 2:00pm. Blue Ridge Coin, 1901 Appalachian Highway, Suite 105, Blue Ridge, GA 30513, (706)-632-3127 or www.blueridgecoinshop.com.

DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

23

Blue Ridge Community Theater

Live Theater tickets make great gifts! Nestled in the North Georgia Mountains, the theater produces a variety of performances from Main Stage adult plays and Live Music IS Better concerts to Sunny D Children’s Theater productions and a two-week summer camp! Contact the Box Office today at 706-632-9191, or visit www.BlueRidgeCommunityTheater.com to make your reservations online. Give the gift of philanthropy by making a donation to the theater in the name of a loved one and help keep the arts alive & thriving in 2021!

Blue Ridge Mountain Trail Rides at Hell’s Hollow

Give the gift of childhood magic, excitement, and wonderment! Bring the whole family together, from your 8 year old nephew to grandma, and enjoy the great outdoors together. Play with baby goats and spend the afternoon touring the farm by horseback, experiencing the out-of-doors at it’s best. Being in Mother Nature’s beauty is always such a glorious gift. Horseback Riding Gift Cards can be used all year round with each season showing it’s special charm.

Guaranteed to bring the Magic of Christmas and the beauty of nature with every ride. Order your Gift Cards by calling Blue Ridge Mountain Trail Rides at Hell’s Hollow, 1-706-408-RIDE (7433), find us on Facebook or visit blueridgemountaintrailridesathellshollow.com

Cabin Coffee Co

Cabin Coffee Co. in Blairsville has the perfect gifts for every coffee lover on your Christmas list! Custom gift baskets can be assembled to include fresh roasted coffee, double-insulated tumblers, Cabin Kups, Ghirardelli chocolates, Rishi tea, and natural flavorings like hazelnut, snickerdoodle, or crème brulee. Cabin Coffee’s fresh roasted beans come from the best growers around the world; Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Sumatra. Stop in for a wide selection of gifts perfect for family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, and everyone else on your list. Visit Cabin Coffee Co. at 44A Town Square in downtown Blairsville. Open Mon – Sat: 7:30am - 4:30pm.

706-745-0073, www.cabincoffeecompany.com

24

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

Buck Bald Brewing

Fill a Pint… Fill a Growler…

Fill your Mind.

For the craft brew enthusiasts on your list check out the hippest joint in town, Buck Bald Brewing, a hands down local favorite watering hole in the Copper Basin. For the clothes horse there are T-shirts, hoodies, beanie’s, and trucker caps.

For the man cave, how about signs, posters, stickers, mugs and pint glasses? Beer to go- no problem! Fill a growler or grab a handful of tokens. Can’t decide? Hello Gift Card!

You can shop online at buckbaldbrewing.com, by phone 706.431.7141, email info@buckbaldbrewinhg.com, or in person at 160 Ocoee Street, Copperhill, TN 37317.

Daisy Boutique

Bring the aroma of the majestic winter forest into your home with our Nest home fragrances.

Blue Cypress has the aroma of a snow covered mountain retreat with hints of Blue Cypress, Juniper Berry and Smoked Vanilla Bean or Birchwood Pine, with a combination of Fir Balsam, Birchwood White Pine over Amber Musk. Available in a diffuser or candle. At Daisy Boutique you’ll also find a fine collection of unique and on trend clothing, shoes, jewelry and accessories that she’ll simply love. Shop our Holiday fragrances and other Gifts for Her at Daisy Boutique! 35 South Main Street, Jasper, GA, 30143. 706-253-6996.

Like us on Facebook daisyboutique.com or Instagram daisyboutique1.

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

Fat Raccoon Gallery

Looking for one-stop fun Holiday shopping?

Look no further than Fat Raccoon Gallery.

For the art lovers there’s a plethora of pottery, paintings, photography and sculpture. Handmade jewelry is always an awesome gift! Browse a great selection of local honey, and artisan foods, or pick up a book from a local author. New to the gallery is our unique and fun selection of educational and activity-based children’s toys. Stocking stuffers?

Christmas ornaments? Got those covered. Shhh. Don’t tell- you’ll probably find something for yourself too! Fat Raccoon Gallery, 121 Ocoee Street, Copperhill, TN, 37317. Hours: Fri-Sat: 12:304:30, Sun: 12:30-3:30. (770) 362-6330, fatraccoonart@gmail. com or find us on Facebook.

Misty Mountain Hops Vinyl Pub

Burgers, craft beer, salads, sandwiches, awesome cocktails and yummy desserts- what better way to support our local restaurants than purchasing a Gift Card for nearly everyone on your list? Misty Mountain Hops and Vinyl Pub is a local music centric restaurant, providing a fun, laid back, pub atmosphere that visitors and locals alike rave about. Misty Mountain Hops believes that through music and food they are creating a place for people of all backgrounds, generations and beliefs to come together and enjoy an enthusiastic experience of community! Purchase Gift Cards online at mistymtnhops.com, by phone at 706-946-8620 or in person.

Located at 3300 East 1st Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513 and open Wednesday thru Saturday, Noon to 9pm..

Power Solutions Unlimited

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

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: Tues - Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 10am-4pm, closed Sun & Mon. North Georgia Furniture and Home Décor: 2142 Tails Creek Road, Ellijay, GA. Call 706. 635. 4202 or visit www.ngfh.net.

Strings & Stitches Yarn Shoppe

Happy Holidays from The largest yarn shop in north Georgia, Strings & Stitches 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 & Stitches Yarn Shoppe, 449 Industrial Blvd., Ellijay, GA 30540. 706-698-KNIT. www.stringsandstitches.com

DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

25

INSIDE Welcome to our Calendar!

Due to COVID-19 many events have been cancelled.

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 1st & 3rd Tuesdays Every Month Plein Air Painters of Hiawassee Hiawasee, GA. Meet at ArtWorks and leave at 2pm for a local scenic spot to spend a fun afternoon painting with other artists. All media welcome. Bring supplies and equipment you can carry.

Some walking on uneven ground may be required.

Remember to bring some water and a hat. During winter months, we paint as long as afternoon temperature is at least 50 degrees. 2pm-5pm ArtWorks Gallery & Gifts, 232B Chatuge Way, Hiawassee, GA. www.artworksgalleryga.com or 706-896-0932.

10/3 – 01/21 AIR 4th Qtr – Don Saunders “The Nature of Blue Ridge Blue Ridge, GA. Join us in welcoming award-winning, internationally-published nature photographer and author Don Saunders as our 4th Quarter Artist-in-Residence.

The quality of Don’s work will leave you breathless as you view nature through the lens of his camera and his artistic eye. His subjects include landscapes, wildlife, and flora.

Don is “constantly searching for those special moments and places where the light and subject combine to make

26

the ordinary very extraordinary!” Opening reception is October 3, 5-7pm. Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Center, Website: www.blueridgearts. net, Email: BlueRidgeArts@ gmail.com, Phone: 706-6322144 11/21 – 01/3 Holiday Show & Sale Looking for that creative and unique holiday gift? Come in and shop this holiday exhibition with hundreds of hand-made items ranging from ornaments to pottery and paintings, all beautifully displayed within our Richard Low Evans Gallery… just in time for the holidays. Gift Certificates are also available.

Opening reception will be November 21, 6-9pm. Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Center, Website: www.blueridgearts. net, Email: BlueRidgeArts@ gmail.com, Phone: 706-6322144.

11/21 – 1/3 SAAG Miniatures Show Blue Ridge, GA. Big artistic talent in little works of art!

Held in conjunction with the BRMAA Holiday Show & Sale, this unique exhibit is focused on miniature artworks created by the very talented artists of our Southern Appalachian Artist Guild (SAAG). Opening reception is November 21, 6-9pm. Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Center, Website: www. blueridgearts.net, Email: BlueRidgeArts@gmail.com, Phone: 706-632-2144.

12/6 – 1/5 4th Annual Juried Quilt & Fiber Exhibit Ellijay, GA. Enjoy the handwork of regional artisans. Opening reception 12/6, 5-7pm. Free.

Limited to 40 people, visit gilmerarts.com to reserve a space. Gilmer Arts Gallery 207 Dalton St., Ellijay, GA 30540. Open Wed - Sat 11a5p, Sun 1-5pm. 706.635.5605

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

NORTH GEORGIA'S GUIDE TO AREA

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

12/10 Storytelling in EllijayHoliday Edition Ellijay, GA. Everyone has a story. All storytellers, poets, songwriters and listeners are WELCOME. Limit 5-7 minutes, first to sign-up. Be respectful.

6:30pm- 8:30 pm. George Link, Jr. Gilmer Arts Playhouse, 135 Dalton St. Ellijay, GA 3054. Phone: 706-635-5605 Website: www.gilmerarts.com 12/11 & 12/13 Board Members Art Show Reception & Silent Auction Ellijay, GA. Board Members invite you to come see some of the art that moves them. They will have pieces from their homes on display and descriptions as to what drew them to the piece. Receptions: 12/11, 5pm-7pm. 12/13, 2pm-4pm.

Limited to 40 people, visit gilmerarts.com to reserve a space. Gilmer Arts Gallery 207 Dalton St., Ellijay, GA 30540. Open Wed - Sat 11a5p, Sun 1-5pm. 706.635.5605 1/8 – 3/3 Annual Juried Spring Exhibition Ellijay, GA. Gilmer Arts Gallery 207 Dalton St., Ellijay, GA 30540. Open Wed - Sat 11a5p, Sun 1-5pm. 706.635.5605

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

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

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

Ongoing Fridays Hiawassee Night Market Hiawassee, GA. A familyfriendly, open-air night artist & artisan market featuring fresh produce, food trucks, games, and live music. The market will be filled with excitement and fun. Night Market is the monthly destination for outdoor dining, shopping, and entertainment. 5pm- 10pm.

Town Square at 19 S. Main Street, Hiawassee GA. http:// hiawasseega.gov 12/5 & 12/12 Jasper Farmer’s Market Jasper, GA. Homegrown products and handmade arts & crafts. 9am-1pm. Park & Ride Lot at Lee Newton Park, Stegall Drive/Veterans Memorial Pkwy, Jasper, GA 12/26 & 1/30 Cars and Coffee Cruise-In Ellijay, GA. North Georgia’s monthly meet of auto and motorcycle enthusiasts. Held in beautiful Ellijay, GA on the last Saturday of each month.

Bring your everything on wheels and enjoy free coffee and donuts. 50/50 raffle and great conversation.

8am -11am. Riverside Pavilion on Main Street, ELLIJAY, GA 30540. Contact Information: Michael Johnson 843-8143774 (p) mhjfedex@aol.com

HOLIDAYS Ongoing Sequoyah Regional Library System Virtual Holiday Events Virtual! Visit www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org to participate in a variety of virtual Holiday activities! Movies, Crafts, Puzzles, Games, Sing Alongs, Hanukkah, Kwanza, Story Time,Trivia and New Years!

Free! Visit www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org or call 770.479.3090

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

11/15 – 12/15 3rd Annual Hometown Holidays Pickens County, GA. Win one of three $100 Visa Gift Cards. Spend $25 in Pickens County between 11/15 – 12/5.

Each receipt counts as one entry. Drop off receipts at the Pickens Chamber or email to info@pickenschamber.com.

Entries must be received by 4pm Wed. 12/16 @ 4pm.

Drawing held on 12/17 @ 1pm via Facebook Live at Pickens Chamber FB page.

11/24 – 12/12 8th Annual Gingerbread Village Blue Ridge, GA. Gingerbread House Contest. Sponsored by the Blue Ridge Business Association. All Entries will be on display to the public from 12 noon Friday, November 27th through noon December 13th. Gingerbread Village is on display at The Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Center, Website: www.blueridgearts. net, Email: BlueRidgeArts@ gmail.com, or 706-632-2144 11/24 – 1/6 Holiday Lights at Veteran’s Park Canton, GA. This is a 2 mile drive thru Christmas light show. Sun - Thurs 6 to 9 pm Fri - Sat 6 to 10 pm.

Admission is $20 per car.

Proceeds to benefit Anna Crawford Children’s Center, Papa’s Pantry, Veterans of Cherokee County, Play It Forward and Skills USA. Veteran’s Park, 7345 Cumming Highway Canton, GA 30115. Info: (770) 924-7768 11/26 - 12/26 Mountain Country Christmas in Lights 2020 Hiawassee, GA. A holiday treat for the entire family at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds along the shores of beautiful Lake Chatuge in the Northeast Georgia mountains. The fairgrounds will be transformed into a spectacular and magical holiday light show, with special Christmas music provided by local churches, art & craft DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

AC LIVING CALENDAR vendors, holiday food, hot chocolate, and of course a visit and pictures with Santa!

New for 2020: COWTOWN. A live exhibit with an old time creamery where you can prepare a cow for milking by hand. Kids get hands-on experiences with making butter, ice cream, and soap using historic tools and machines. “Home Made” just the way grandma used to do it! Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 6 -10PM. $6. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds 1311 Music Hall Road Hiawassee, GA 30546.

For info: 706-896-4191 or www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com 11/27 Light Up McCaysville McCaysville, GA. The town will be fully decorated, family entertainment, shopping and restaurant specials. Visit Santa in the Riverwalk Shops 7:30 P.M. The Tree Lighting will be followed by the Annual Bridge Lighting.

11/27 Blue Friday Blue Ridge, GA. Friday is BLUE Friday, when all merchants will be offering discounts and the downtown area will be filled with live entertainment throughout the day. 10am7:30pm. Contact: Light Up Blue Ridge, Email: cesarmart2@icloud.com, Phone: 706-258-2432 11/27 thru 12/20 Santa Express Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Blue Ridge, GA. Celebrate the season with a visit to Santa and Mrs. Claus in their specially decorated caboose and then enjoy a one-hour train ride with a Christmas story, singing and fun. Each child will receive the traditional Blue Ridge Scenic railway sleigh bell and a candy cane.

Due to ongoing concerns with Covid-19 Santa and Mrs. Claus will not be on the train this year. They will be available for visits with the children in their specially decorated caboose at the Depot. We are sorry but children will not be allowed to sit on Santa’s lap or to hug him or Mrs. Claus. This is for the safety of our guests and Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Thank you for your understanding. Please check the TRAIN SCHEDULE for various dates and times. Blue Ridge

Scenic Railway, 241 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513.

Visit: https://brscenic.com

Light Up Blue Ridge, Email: cesarmart2@icloud.com, Phone: 706-258-2432

11/27 thru 12/23 First Annual Copper Basin Olde Town Christmas Copperhill, TN & McCaysville GA. With a nod to the simpler times of days gone by, we are turning Copper Basin into a historic “Dickens-like” holiday shopping and dining destination! The City of Copperhill will deck the halls with citywide holiday décor to bring the vision to life! 1.8 miles of Holiday Fun! 12/27 Copper Friday Our own version on “Black Friday” where each merchant is encouraged to offer specials and discounts, and to stay open until 9:00 pm.

Tree Lighting – City of Copperhill followed by crossing the bridge to “Light Up McCaysville” @ Riverwalk Shops 11/28 & 12/5 Santa’s Reindeer Farm McCaysville, GA. Step into a Winter Wonderland featuring two LIVE reindeer hitched to a sleigh for Family Photo ops!

Photos will be available for family purchase for $5 just in time for Holiday Greeting Cards. Noon – 2pm both days.

Grace Medical parking lot at 34 Blue Ridge Dr McCaysville, GA 30555.

Weekends 11/27 thru 12/27 Letters to Santa- Mail letters to Santa on Ocoee Street in between Mountain Attitude Designs and Treasure Chest!

Santa’s Workshop – Our very own Santa – Rip Mann– will be setting up his ‘workshop’ inside his Christmas is Here store inside the Riverwalk Shops.

Children’s Story Train – Copper Express (‘Twas The Night Before Christmas) Friday, Saturday and Sunday Historical Photo Station- Our very own Pic & Vine will offer Historic Holiday Family Photos, great for Greeting Cards, Gifts or Just for Fun!

11/29 Christmas Tour of Trees at Serenity in The Mountains Blue Ridge, GA. Famous for their beautifully decorated trees for years. 75 beautiful trees, great photo ops, Santa Claus and more. 2pm – 5pm.

Tickets are $20 each and can be purchased at Serenity, the Fannin Co. Sheriffs Dept, Bank of OZK, and United Community Bank. All tickets purchased will be placed in raffle drawing from Serenity. All proceeds benefit Shop with a Cop. Serenity in the Mountains, 59 McKinney Road, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. 706-258-2244 or www.serenityinthemountains. com

11/28 Light Up Blue Ridge Blue Ridge, GA. A full day of fun begins on Saturday when Santa arrives on the train approximately 11:00 a.m. Santa will be in the park from 12:30 to 4:40 p.m. for visits with the kids. Parade will begin at 5:30 p.m. with lighting of the Great Tree at 7 p.m. Contact:

DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

12/1 – 12/31 Tour of Trees Blairsville, GA. Over 40 beautifully decorated trees and wreaths on display throughout the Community Center. Free!

M – F 9am-5pm. Blairsville Chamber of Commerce. Union County Community Center, 129 Union County Rec Rd, Blairsville, GA. http://www.

VisitBlairsvilleGA.com or call 706-745-5789 12/5 Light Up the Basin Copperhill, TN. & McCaysville, GA. Save the date for the Copperhill Kiwanis Club 61st Annual Christmas Parade and Light UP the Basin. Always held (weather permitting) the first Saturday in December.

12/5 Kiwanis Christmas Parade Copper Basin, GA/TN. Honoring First Responders!

2:00 PM (Rain Date will be December 12, 2020, 2:00 PM) Come out and Join Us! 12/5 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.

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

This twist on the classic Christmas tale is set in 1950’s Atlanta during the Transit Strikes, and tells of selfless love and generosity.

GIFT OF THE MAGI 2.0

November 27th - December 13th Thursday - Saturday 7:30 PM Sundays at 2 PM A fun holiday musical that follows Santa’s Reindeer when they have there own plans for how to spend Christmas!

RUNAWAY REINDEER

December 17th - December 19th Thursday - Saturday 10 AM The beloved story of little orphan Annie, who dreams of finding her parents amid the wild streets of NYC!

ANNIE: THE BROADWAY MUSICAL

December 18th - December 20th Friday - Sunday 7:30 PM Saturday & Sunday 2 PM

MASKS REQUIRED, SOCIALLY DISTANCED SEATING, THEATER SANITIZED DAILY BOOK YOUR TICKETS TODAY

BY PHONE OR ONLINE! 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 WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

27

12/5 14th Annual Christmas Bazaar and Outdoor Christmas Market Blue Ridge, GA. Safe shopping- an outdoor Christmas Market under cover in the open air church pavilion plus indoor shopping in the church.

Please wear masks indoors and social distance indoors and outdoors. Kitchen goodies and treats will be available for sale. Free parking. Free admission. Handicap accessible. St. Luke’s Anglican Church, 7 Ewing Street, Blue Ridge, GA . 706 632-8245 or StLukesBlueRidge@gmail. com.

12/20 Family Fun Night- Santa & a Movie Ellijay, GA. Join us at the Playhouse for Santa and a movie. Milk and cookies.

There will be two showings of Prancer. Santa will visit with the kids after the first showing and before the 2nd showing of the movie. Admission is a few canned goods. Seating is limited to 40 people, so register to attend this event soon! Two showings: 3pm and

6pm. George Link, Jr. Gilmer Arts Playhouse, 135 Dalton St .Ellijay, GA 3054. Phone: 706-635-5605 Website: www. gilmerarts.com 12/21 Virtual Event: Christmas Rag Trees & Ornaments Virtual! It’s the most craft-iful time of the year! Join Ms. Deborah from our Hickory Flat Public Library and Ms. Crystal from our Pickens County Library for some holiday crafts! Make your very own Christmas Rag Tree and a “Let It Snow” ornament. 10am.

This event can be viewed live on the Sequoyah Regional Library’s official Facebook page. Visit www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org 12/31 New Year’s Eve Fireworks Hiawassee, GA. We’ve all had enough of 2020, so come out to the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds and help us usher in 2021 with bang! Hot Chocolate, BBQ, and Hotdogs available for sale. Fireworks at 8:45. Free! Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Rd, Hiawassee, GA 30546.

Visit: www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com or (706) 896-4191 12/31 New Year’s Midnight Train Blue Ridge, GA. Come aboard and party with us as we celebrate the New Year! We will serve wine, beer, champagne, and hors d’ oeuvres during the event. Please check the TRAIN SCHEDULE for various dates and times. Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, 241 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Visit: https://brscenic.com

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 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.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

Since 1955 Now in Two Locations

706. 946. 2322

Ellijay Tire 583 Maddox Drive Ellijay, GA 30540

706. 635. 2322

williamstireco.com 28

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.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.

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

706. 253. 6905 540 North Main St. Suite E Jasper, GA

Tires • Wheels • Oil Changes • Alignments Full Service Maintenance

Williams Tire 5140 Appalachian Hwy. Blue Ridge, GA 30513

Weekends Cartecay Vineyards Cartecay Vineyards, 5704 Clear Creek Road, Ellijay, GA 30535. Call 706. 698. 9463 (WINE) or visit www.cartecayvineyards.com

Consigning Women

Williams Tire Co.

Visit Our r o Website Fl Specia Offers!

First Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. www.fanninbrewingcompany.com or 706.258.2762

During these tough times, we at Appalachian Country Living Magazine urge those who have more to help those who have less by donating to your local or regional Food Bank. A good place to start is with FEEDING AMERICA where you can donate directly or find a food pantry in your area. Let’s all be kind.

www.feedingamerica.org

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

2/13 The Drifters / The Platters / Cornel Gunter’s Coasters Hiawassee, GA. Live in Concert! “The longest running music show in Las Vegas History” - The Drifters, Cornell Gunter’s Coasters and The Platters. Three rock and roll hall of fame legends on the same stage, for one night only.

Level 1: $40.00 + handling.

Level 2: $30.00 + handling.

Tickets on sale now. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Rd, Hiawassee, GA 30546. Visit: www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com or (706) 896-4191

THEATER 11/27 thru 12/13 Gift of the Magi 2.0 Gift of the Magi 2.0 re-imagines O. Henry’s holiday classic Gift of the Magi, setting the tale in Atlanta in the 1950s.

This affecting adaptation centers around a local streetcar driver who’s struggling to stay afloat during the Atlanta Transit strike. Christmas is around the corner, and the young man is determined to find a way to buy his wife the perfect gift, without realizing she’s doing the same for him.

This play tells the story of love, sacrifice and the blessings that we take for granted.

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

12/17 – 12/20 Annie- A Broadway Musical Blue Ridge, GA. Little orphan Annie is taken from her orphanage, and the clutches of evil Miss Hannigan, to stay at billionaire Oliver Warbuck’s mansion for the holidays.

Annie wins the hearts of Warbuck’s, and they set out on an epic mission to find Annie’s parents. Meanwhile, Miss Hannigan, in partnership with her brother Rooster and his girlfriend Lily, attempt to make some money out of this unique situation. The stories become intertwined as Annie’s story hits the national spotlight. Thursday & Friday at 7:30, Saturday and Sunday at 2:00 and 7:30. Blue Ridge Community Theater, 2591 East 1st St., Blue Ridge, GA 30513.

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

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.

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/

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 copperhillbrewery.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

Daily Chateau Meichtry Chateau Meichtry, 1862 Orchard Lane, Talking Rock, GA 30175. Info: (706) 5021608 or www. chateaumeichtry.com.

Ongoing Crane Creek VIneyards Young Harris, 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

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

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

SHOP SHOP SHOP SHOP

Please be aware of closings and cancellations due to COVID-19.

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 unintentionally 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

SMALL! LOCAL! SMALL! LOCAL!

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 APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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

Ongoing Mon- Sun Valley River Brewery & Eatery Located in Historic Downtown Murphy, NC at 71 Tennessee Street. 828-837-BEER or www.valleyriverbrewery.com

VACATION RENTALS

DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

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

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING IS HIRING! Be part of our fun, but very small team as a Part Time Commission Sales Representative.

Great supplemental income for retirees, students or stay at home Moms.

Please email your resume to alice@blueridgemediagroup.com WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

29

AC LIVING HISTORY

history of indian georgia

– Buffalofish Town

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

The Re-Naming of Our Indian Places

W

We don’t often think about the place names of towns that are around us, nor realize how they got their names or that they could have been named for a person. Often, if we don’t know the significance to start with, politics intervene and the place gets renamed. Smyrna, Georgia, a non-denominational religious campground built shortly after the 1832 land lottery, was named as such after a town in Turkey named by the Apostle Paul in the first century AD. Today that town is modern day Izmir. The new Smyrna, Georgia however, already had a name, Buffalofish Town.

During the 1930’s all of the counties of Georgia received a mandate from one of the governors to write their county’s history. The pleasure was bestowed upon several authors and contributors to the project, with the history of Cobb County to be written by Sarah Gober Temple. She based her information on the writings of George White’s Historical Collections of Georgia written in 1849-51. In Ms. Temple’s version, Buffalofish Town, mentioned only briefly, and according to White’s statements, was known as Varner’s Station approximately 16 miles southwest of Marietta and had several other names over time including Ruff’s Station.

The Battle of Smyrna Campground and the Battle of Ruff’s Mill were two of the Civil War 30

Battles fought on those grounds in 1864. Many of the homes and businesses were burned by Sherman’s troops along with a covered bridge that was rebuilt after the war.

Historical records tell of the dispute between Creek and Cherokee Indians and the state of Georgia as early as 1802. Tradition says that the Cherokees had won the plot of land on the Chattahoochee River’s Southeastern side in a ball-play or stick-ball game. Often referred to as being somewhat like lacrosse, the ball was similar to a hacky sack and traditionally made of a nut or stone wrapped with thin strips of deer hide.

The “sticks” were about two feet long with strips of hide intertwined to form a net.

It wasn’t long after that ball-play, that the state of Georgia realigned where the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation East and pushed those Cherokees living near the Shallow Ford on the Chattahoochee River’s Southeastern side to the Northern side of the river further and into what became known as Cobb County in 1830-32. The government had gotten nervous about how many whites might be living in this Georgia Indian Territory and began making yearly reports in about 1827. These reports detailed who the leaders of the Cherokees were, if any whites were married to these Cherokees, and were there any mixed blood children.

Yearly censuses were taken shortly thereafter until the 1838 removal was completed.

Historical records show that whenever there were a group of Indians on the wrong side of the river, they were made to move onto the legal side and their property confiscated to be used by “the citizens of Georgia.” This information was detailed in records for the losses incurred by the Cherokees in 1842 after they were removed to Arkansas and Oklahoma Indian Territory.

Buffalo Fish and his family moved to Floyd county where they were found in the 1835 census. The census details in brief that there were ten full bloods (of which two were farmers), 2 slaves, three weavers and two spinners (language used to describe the women). Buffalo Fish is listed along with several other family members

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Above: Buffalofish’s granddaughter, Ahna-wa-ki Spirit - usually called/known as “Annie.” Sometimes her name was spelled “Ahniwake.” The couple’s picture is of her wedding to her second husband, Simon Snail/Snell (A-la-gua), who was a Union Captain in the 3rd Regiment of the Indian Home Guards, mustered in on September 16, 1862. Earlier, like many of his compatriots, he served in John Drew’s Cherokee Mounted Rifles, in company D, and was mustered out on Nov. 5, 1861 in order to join the Union army.

Below: Annie circa 1900. living on the Etowah River. There were possibly six sons and at least three daughters. Two of his many sons are listed, one as “Crying Snake” and the other as “The Spirit.” Improvements to the town detailed in the census made claims to what became known as Dykes Bend in about 1836.

Other place names that you might not think to be names of people were Doublehead, Soap, Sequoyah, Sweetwater, Proctor, Fourkiller (or Foekiller) and many more which became names of townships, creeks, schools and roadways. 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/ DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

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. We pride ourselves in delivering American made products whenever possible!

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

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

706.635.2327

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

Make

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

in Ellijay

THE PLACE for Your Home Shopping!

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

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

• Stihl, Yeti, and Traeger

HOME DECOR AND MORE MAKE PERFECT GIFTS

MADE HERE AT ACE, SWINGING PORCH BED

Much More Than A Hardware Store!

DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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

31

Driving directions: Just 5 miles North of Ellijay on Highway 515 N

E L L I J AY, G E O R G I A

EASTERN SALES OFFICE • MODEL HOME 143788 Hwy 515, N, Ellijay, Georgia 1-800-918-6881

Call: Chris Crump for more information: 706-636-6881 email: chris@slh.com