Appalachian Country Living Magazine April/May 2015 by Appalachian Country Living Magazine

www.aclivingmagazine.com | APRIL/May 2015

Welcome Home to Nature

Serenity, Beauty & Comfort at Covered Bridge Estates

The most complete list of spring & summer festivals in north georgia

homesteading- A first person account of the latest trend from pots to PIGS

stressbuster cabin rentals in ellijay, family owned and operated since 1995

Disconnect from your busy world & Discover the north Georgia mountains at Covered Bridge Estates in Ellijay, GA.

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

Whether you’re searching for your first mountain home, vacation retreat or planning your retirement, Covered Bridge Estates is right for you. Our community offers an abundance of lifestyle opportunities. Watch wildlife from your balcony. Take a leisurely walk on paved roads throughout the gated community. Covered Bridge Estates is just a stone's throw away from Carter's Lake and the entrance to the Appalachian Trail where recreation opportunities such as hiking, boating, and mountain biking abound. Enjoy the convenience of local vineyards, dining & antique shops. Visit the historic downtown square, and enjoy the Annual Apple Festival. Covered Bridge Estates... the next place you will want to call home.

Community Features · Professionally planned community · Gated entrance w/cameras · Homesites starting in mid 30's · 1 to 3-acre build-able homesites

· Model open daily · Homes starting in mid 200's · Several home plans to choose from 1700 - 2500 sq. ft. of living area

Contact Mike Kunkel at 706-669-4177 or mike@estatesatcoveredbridge.com Or Visit www.estatesatcoveredbridge.com

April/may 2015

Appalachian Country Living

www.aclivingmagazine.com

WELCOME TO AC LIVING MAGAZINE

Photo Editor & Mayor Maxine checks out my grandmother’s vintage table cloth for the recipe photo shoot. She likes it much better when we actually make and eat the food!

Daffodils have come and gone and spring is officially here despite the fact that we had a dusting of snow just a few days ago. Contractors are all back to work with hammering going on everywhere, tree trimming, lawn mowers, spring break visitors– Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad has started up again- the whole place is buzzing loudly while gearing up for the summer tourist season.

So what have Maxine and I been up to the last two months? February– mostly keeping warm by the woodstove in our little, rustic cabin. In March we ignored the rain and joined the St. Paddy’s Day Parade– St. Maxine wearing her signature [this time green] Mohawk, while chasing the snakes from Blue Ridge. Then of course– the last few weeks of the month working on the magazine. When we bought our cabin in Mineral Bluff, GA over 20 years ago, the previous and only owner– Mrs. West– left behind a lot of… uh, stuff. One of the things we’ve held onto was her My Great Recipes collection. This was a recipe club in the early 1980’s that sent monthly recipe cards to subscribers to add to their collection. I’ve been wondering what to do with them for sometime now, so you’ll find a few of them here on our recipe pages. One of these days, maybe I’ll get all 100 of them up on our web site– but don’t hold your breath for THAT to happen any time soon! Our April/May issue brings you everything you’ll need for spring. New daddyo Greg Dunn lists some of his favorite outdoor adventure and mountain bike events. Our new garden & landscape editor, Kevin Johnson tells all about the Rose Rosette Disease threatening our Knockout Roses and Leslie Barker Thomas, president of the Gilmer Historical Society and the Georgia Chapter of the Trail of Tears Association shares the legend of the Cherokee Rose. Michelle Moran relates her personal path to homesteading, sustainable living and her dedication teaching the next generation exactly where their food originates. Covered Bride Estates in Ellijay has completed their latest model home and invites prospective homebuilders to embrace nature and make it an integral part of their mountain lifestyle. Just visiting you say? Joy Lyle of Stressbuster Cabin Rentals just might have the perfect place for a romantic getaway, or a big family vacation. And if all of that isn’t enough– you’ll find the most complete listing of the growing number of Spring and Summer Festivals in the lower Appalachians– whew! Hang on because there’s still the Summer Fun issue coming up for June & July! See y’all then.

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PUBLISHER | EDITOR IN CHIEF Alice Sexton 706. 492. 5070 | Alice@blueridgemediagroup.com CALENDAR & EVENTS EDITOR Andrea Simmonds 706. 973. 0561 | AmSimmonds93@gmail.com GARDEN & LANDSCAPE EDITOR Kevin Johnson | GrowItGreen@etcmail.com HISTORY EDITOR Leslie Thomas Baker | PresHist@etcmail.com OUTDOOR ADVENTURE EDITOR Greg Dunn | TrainingDunnRight@gmail.com Advertising Sales Ann Merry 770. 324. 2384 | AnnMerry@ymail.com ADVERTISING INQUIRIES Appalachian Country Living 706. 492. 5070 | Alice@blueridgemediagroup.com LAYOUT/DESIGN Blue Ridge Media Group CONTRIBUTORS Stuart Borders, Karen Graham, Greg, Carrie & Finn Dunn, Leni Jarrett, Tom Jackson, Kevin Johnson, Betty Kossick, Margy Lohman, Joy Lyle, Maxine, Ann Merry, Michelle Moran, Peggy Sexton, Andrea Simmonds, Keith Smith, Leslie Barker Thomas, Mrs. West, Hannah Queen

Appalachian Country LIVING Magazine PO Box 1250 Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706. 492. 5070 hello@blueridgemediagroup.com www.aclivingmagazine.com

PLEASE RECYCLE

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

Appalachian Country Living

DEcember/January 2015

Relax, Refresh and Rejunvinate in the North Georgia Mountains

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Appalachian Country Living

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contents Spotlight, 7 Restaurant Great Greek Gyro Wraps Something We’ve All Been Waiting For, Authentic Greek Food, OPA!

Prevent Child Abuse in Pickens County

Homesteading

April is Prevent Child Abuse Month, Pickens County Takes the Lead That We Should All Follow

The Latest Grass Roots Movement Focusing on Education Leading to a Healthier Planet and a Sustainable Lifestyle

22 Nature Welcomes You

Covered Bridge Estates in Ellijay Has the Mountian Top Solution to Your Dreams

28 Go Retro!

These Recipes Will Either Blow Your Mind or Bring Back Fond Memories

Most Complete List of Spring 32 The & Summer Festivals for 2015 Need We Say More?

38 Destress, Relax, Enjoy

Stressbuster Cabin Rentals in Ellijay– The Personal Service You Deserve

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CABIN BUSTER STRESS IN ELLIJAY, ING- A UNT RENTALSOWNED AND AD TE ES CO HOM FAMILY ED SINCE 1995 RSON AC FIRST PELATEST TREND OPERAT OF THE TS TO PIGS FROM PO

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ON THE COVER

Located in an idyllic setting at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, at the southern end of the Appalachian trial, in Ellijay, Georgia, Covered Bridge Estates, developed by Ellijay Associates, LLC, has recently completed its newest model home in the premiere gated community. Welcome Home to Nature! Appalachian Country Living

APRIL/maY 2015

AC LIVING Restaurant Spotlight

GREAT GREEK GYRO WRAPS

706. 781. 0996

Dine In or Carry Out Mon-Thur 11am–3pm • Fri 11am–7pm 513–E Murphy Highway • Blairsville, GA Behind Mikeʻs Find Us On Trip Advisor®

Great Greek Gyro Wraps

Mon-Thurs 11am-9pm Fri 11am-10pm Sat 11:30-10pm Sun Closed

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15 West Cross Street/Hwy. 515 East Ellijay, Georgia 30540 Beer & Wine Downtown Blue Ridge Only!

Serenity Garden Café

SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER AT TWO LOCATIONS

Downtown

657 E Main Street • Blue Ridge, GA Daily 8am-9pm 706. 258.4949

Riverside

There’s a new foodie hotspot in town that you’ll surely want to visit. Great Greek Gyro Wraps in Blairsville has just celebrated its one-year anniversary and they are going strong! Upon moving to Blairsville, Eleni Jarrett searched for some ethnic variety in the local food offerings and finding few, decided to strike out on her own. Jarrett’s grandparents emigrated from Greece so her culinary roots are planted firmly in tradition giving her the knowledge and taste buds to pull off what many others could not. Great Greek Gyro Wraps serves traditional made to order Gyros, Wraps, Greek Salads, Falafel, Hummus, Greek Potatoes and Baklava. Yum. The Gyro Wrap is made from the finest rotisserie meats available while the Chicken Wrap is a fresh chicken breast grilled to perfection. Both wraps are served with fresh onions, tomatoes. The Falafel Wrap is as authentic as it gets and is served with fresh sprouts, onions and tomatoes. The Hippie “Chick” en Wrap- Eleni’s own creationboasts fresh grilled chicken breast marinated in a delicious blend of Greek herbs, hummus, fresh sprouts, onions and tomatoes. All wraps come more-than-healthy portions with the choice of traditional Tiziki sauce or the house Special Sauce- that is best described as a Greek Pesto. Order alacarte, combos or plates, you can even purchase your own 8oz. jar of Special Sauce to take home. The atmosphere is decidedly relaxed and friendly deli-style. Bring your favorite beverage to enjoy with no corkage fee. And don’t forget the baklava. OPA! Eat in or carry out. Great Greek Gyro Wraps is open for Monday- Thursday 11am – 3pm and Fridays 11am – 7pm. Closed Saturday and Sunday. Call ahead for take-out and for large orders please call in by 10am or preferably the day before. MasterCard, Visa & Discover accepted.

100 Bridge Street • McCaysville, GA Daily 8am-9pm Closed Wednesdays 706. 964.4949

Great Geek Gyro Wraps: 513E Murphy Highway (behind Mike’s) • Blairsville, GA 30512. 706. 781. 0996. April/may 2015

Appalachian Country Living

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©2015 United Community Bank | United Community Bank NMLS ID# 421841. United Community Mortgage Services is the mortgage lending division of United Community Bank. We are an approved seller/servicer for the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) and the Federal Home Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac). Normal credit criteria apply. *As reported by Customer Service Profiles.

Appalachian Country Living

APRIL/maY 2015

AC LIVING ADVENTURE

STEP IT UP Outdoor Adventure Editor Greg Dunn Lists Outdoor Events That Will Put a SPRING Back in Your Step April 19 Gravel Grinder

The six inches of snow that I woke up to this morning did not make me feel like spring is just around the corner. It did however, make me think of a few events to look forward to that might help me fight through this cabin fever that is obviously setting in. My wife Carrie works for the school system and has missed six out of the last seven days. Landscaping is tough in the snow so I have been home more as well. To make things more interesting, Carrie’s all wheel drive Honda Element is in the shop, and I drive a two wheel drive Toyota Tundra. Two wheel drive trucks are useless in the mountains when it snows. Did I mention that Carrie is eight months pregnant? I think you are probably picking up what I’m laying down, right? We’ve actually enjoyed being snowed in but we are so ready for some warmer days. Spring has finally arrived, so here are some great events to look forward to the next two months.

April 10-12 Lindsey Voreis Ladies MTB Clinic Lindsey Voreis, a well known professional mountain bike racer from Portland, OR, will be hosting a women’s only mountain bike clinic this spring at the beautiful Mulberry Gap Mountain Bike Get-A-Way, just outside Ellijay, GA. Registration is open and filling up fast so visit www.mulberrygap.com for more information.

April 17- 18 6th Annual Smokey Mountain Relay An epic overnight relay race– 212.5 miles along trails and country roads from Brevard, NC to finish at the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC). Hailed as the most challenging race in the southeast, runners enjoy stunning views from the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Mountain to Sea trail. The overnight relay run starts at the Pink Beds Park in Brevard, NC and ends at the Nantahala Outdoor Center in Bryson City, NC. Thanks to the folks at the NOC, ther will be world-class finish line celebration with hot showers, cold drinks, yummy food and some rockin’ mountain music. For info visit the NOC www.noc.com April/may 2015

The Gravel is a strenuous ride, experienced bikers only please. Choose from a 30 or 40 mile option. Riders will start and finish at Woody’s Mountain Bikes in Alpine Helen, GA. This is a donation only ride with all proceeds will benefiting Yonah Preserve multi- use trail development. There will be an after ride party sponsored by “Art of Stone.” Woody’s Mountain Bikes: W.P. (Woody) Wood – Owner, 457 Hwy 356, Helen, GA 30545. 706. 878. 3715. Email: woodysmtb@ gmail.com or www.woodysmtb.net

April 25 Cohutta 100/Big Frog 65 MTB Race The Cohutta 100 and Big Frog 65 are two “classic” ultra endurance MTB races that take place in the Appalachian foothills of Southeastern Tennessee’s Cherokee National Forest. Both distances offer fun and challenging singletrack mixed with beautiful stretches of fire roads that meander through the forest. For 2015, the Cohutta 100 takes on a fresh route, drawing up the southern end of the course that went into Georgia and displacing it west across more of Tennessee’s Cherokee National Forest and the Ocoee region.

May 2 12 Hours of Tsali Team/Solo Competition Limited to 350 participants. Cash prizes. Friday: 3pm to 6pm race package pick up at Bryson City Bicycles 157 Everett Street, Bryson City, NC, 28713. Open riding & camping. Saturday: 8am race packet pickup. Racing from 10am to 10pm. Tsali Recreation Area - Bryson City, NC. Bryson City Bicycles 888. 488. 1988 or www. brysoncitybicycles.com

May 16 The Georgia Mountain Metric Century Bike Ride A 23 mile epic cycling experience will be available to all interested bike riders throughout the Southeast. This inaugural ride is designed as a spring tune-up ride before the yearly Six Gap ride in the fall. The Georgia Mountain Metric Century Bike Ride boasts of over 2,000 feet of climbing and will ride through the scenic Trackrock area and roll through the beautiful countryside crossing the “big 3 gaps” – Hog Pen, Unicoi, & Jacks Gap. For more info contact Blairsville Bikes & Hikes, 49 Blue Ridge St (Just off the Town Square), Blairsville, GA. Appalachian Country Living

(706) 745-8141. For registration and additional Information search the event at www.epicsportsmarketing.com

May 30 Blue Ridge Mountain Adventure Race The Blue Ridge Mountain Adventure Race has been a huge success and has drawn people to Fannin County from all over the country. For 2015, race director Jeff Leininger of Florida Extreme Adventures will take over management of this epic event. There will be an eight hour event for those new to the sport, as well as the massive 24 hour version that is sure to challenge the most hearty of competitors. Adventure racers have to navigate through the rugged terrain of the Appalachian Mountains through various means of travel including running, cycling, paddling, climbing, and rappelling. Registration and information: www.blueridgeadventurerace.com

May 31 XTERRA Tsali Off Road Triathalon USAT membership required, one-day memberships are available onsite for $12. Held on the famous Tsali trail system near Bryson City in Western NC. This park is a perfect venue for an off-road Triathlon as it has some of the areas best lakes, a fun and fast trail system and a quiet comfortable setting. The ½ mile lake swim will start off the event as athletes will begin on East shore and swim out to a point in the lake marked with buoys and then back to the beach. After exiting the water the racers will face a short run to the transition area to begin the 5 mile run course on the “right loop alternate” trail. The mountain bike leg, which consists of a 10 mile loop will take the riders around the popular “left loop” to the finish in the Transistion area. Trail maintence and parking volunteers thanks to Nantahala Area Sorba. Visit www.goneriding.com. ACLM Editor’s Note: Welcome Finn Michael Dunn who arrived on Saturday March 21st at 8lbs. 2 oz. No doubt– Finn has two of the coolest parents around. Congrats Greg & Carrie

FOR GUIDED MOUNTAIN BIKE TOURS OR TAKING YOUR TRAINING TO THE NEXT LEVEL CONTACT OUTDOOR ADVENTURE EDITOR GREG DUNN VIA EMAIL Trainingdunnright@gmail.com www.aclivingmagazine.com

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Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday 9am to 6pm, Saturday 10am to 4pm Visit one of our Models or Showrooms Today, Don’t Be Overcharged For Your New Home! Price does not include land improvements. Prices subject to change. Some of the homes shown have options not in the base price.

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Appalachian Country Living

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APRIL/maY 2015

AC LIVING landscape & GARDEN

KNOCKED OUT Landscape & Garden Editor Kevin Johnson Explains why Our Favorite Knockout Roses Might Just Get Knocked Out

Roses, cherished for their beautiful blooms and fragrance, are commonly used in our yards and landscapes. Anyone who has grown roses understands how challenging they can be to maintain, often requiring lots of time and effort to produce, thus enhancing their intrinsic value. The introduction of the Knockout Rose –Rosaceae rosa “Radzazz”– roughly 15 years ago made rose lovers happier than ever as this new variety is known for being easy to grow, extremely disease tolerant, drought resistant and ever blooming. Now the bad news– Knockout Roses are in trouble. Overplanting and overuse has made them highly susceptible to the spread of insects and disease. Rose Rosette Disease (RRD) may well spell the end of the Knockout Rose as well as several other varieties of roses. RRD or Witches Broom as it is often called because of the way it causes new shoots to grow straight up and close together in broom-shaped clusters, is a viral rose disease spread by a tiny insect. The primary vector of this virus is spread by the Eriophyid mite, which is invisible to the naked eye. The wingless and microscopic mite is carried on the wind, which means mass plantings are particularly susceptible. The virus is spread from plant to plant as the mites feed on the tender new growth of the rose. And while Knock Out roses are its most famous victims, the disease is a threat to all commercial hybrid roses, including favorites such as hybrid tea roses, floribundas, grandifloras and old-fashioned varieties. RRD can also be spread through lax pruning and grafting practices with the mites moving from plant to plant on tools that have not been cleaned or disinfected between use. Once infected, this disease can be fatal to the plant. I have seen firsthand how devastating the Rose Rosette virus can be, so learning to identify this disease is critical. This spring, it will be extremely important to inspect your roses. Plant symptoms of RRD include a thickening of the stems, the foliage to have an abnormal red color, and rapidly elongating- Witches Broom- shoots. Flowers and buds will also become deformed and the plant April/may 2015

Rose Rosette Disease Symtoms • Thickening of Stems • Abnormal red color foliage with Witches Broom shoots • Deformed flowers and buds • Distorted and dwarfed leaves Top: Healthy and beautiful Knockout Rose. Above: Knockout Rose with Rose Rosette Disease. may have many distorted and dwarfed leaves. If you think your roses have been infected, don’t waste your time and money spraying with insecticides, fungicides and miticides. I’ve tried this approach with little success. Remember we are dealing with a virus that becomes systemic throughout the entire plant. Sadly, RRD is not curable. My advice is to completely remove the entire plant from the landscape, including all of the roots. This may prevent the disease from further spreading to healthy plants. I know this doesn’t sound fun, but it’s the best approach. Once the infected plants are removed, or if your roses are not showing signs of RRD, it is extremely important that pruners be completely disinfected with a water/bleach solution after Appalachian Country Living

each use to discourage the spread of the disease. In the June/July edition of AC Living Magazine I plan on covering the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid as it threatens the survival of this valuable tree species. If you have hemlocks growing on your property, you need to know about this devastating insect. So see you next issue! ACLM Kevin Johnson is the owner of Green Leaf Lawn and Ornamental LLC, based in Blue Ridge. He was formerly the Grounds Supervisor at Young Harris College and has extensive training in landscape management. You can find Kevin at www.wetreatlawns.com or reach him toll free at 866. 883. 2420. www.aclivingmagazine.com

Plant a Pinwheel Garden for Kids in Crisis Prevent Child Abuse Pickens

Celebrates Each April as Prevent Child Abuse Month

Why Pinwheels for Prevention? For two decades, market research consistently has shown that the public views child abuse and neglect as a serious problem. As a national organization whose mission is “to prevent the abuse and neglect of our nation’s children,” our emphasis is to now transform that awareness into action. We now have that opportunity through the pinwheel, which reminds us of childlike notions and stands for the chance at the healthy, happy and full lives all children deserve. Pinwheels for Prevention began as a grassroots campaign among our chapters in Georgia, Florida and Ohio. Their success and our desire to create a national symbol for child abuse and neglect prevention led us to take this effort nationwide in 2008. Prevent Child Abuse America, founded in 1972 in Chicago, works to ensure the healthy development of children nation 12

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wide. The organization promotes that vision through a network of chapters in 50 states and 581 Healthy Families America® home visitation sites in 41 states, all the territories, Puerto Rico and Canada. A major organizational focus is to advocate for the existence of a national policy framework and strategy for children and families while promoting evidence-based practices that prevent abuse and neglect from ever occurring. Supporting Prevent Child Abuse Pickens means more than just supporting our agency, it is a way to give our children a healthy, successful future. 100% of every dollar you donate goes directly to support our home visitation program - Parents as Teachers. A strong community that values parenting and families makes a safe and healthy environment for kids. Supporting Prevent Child Abuse Pickens means more than just supporting our organization, it is a way to give our children a secure future.

Appalachian Country Living

APRIL/maY 2015

AC LIVING COMMUNITY

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month

In1983, U. S. presidential proclamation named April as Child Abuse Prevention Month. Since then, each April, Prevent Child Abuse Pickens (PCAP) promotes the need of awareness for the entire community as well as at risk families, through the sale of blue pinwheels. Each pinwheel is a reminder of the need to prevent abuse of a child. PCAP’s mission is to prevent child abuse and neglect though education and support. Planting garden pinwheels is one way the advocates for safe children do this, through its Footsteps for Families and Parents as Teachers programs. In 2011, PCA Pickens planted 532 pinwheels to represent each reported case of child abuse in Pickens County. Last year’s planting showed a 23 percent decline of reported cases, with only 396 pinwheels planted. A fine proof that PCAP’s programs work, but they still need your help. Churches, businesses, schools, and medical facilities are encouraged to walk in the Footsteps of Families and Parents as Teachers by helping rescue the abused children by promoting and selling the garden pinwheels to each entities’ members, customers, and co-workers. In fact, the planting of pinwheel gardens at home or at business sites can create a wider sphere of community awareness. Prevention before it starts is the goal. The entirety—100-perecnt of the proceeds—goes to the cause of abused kids. Anyone who participates in PCAP’s programs, including buying and selling, and planting garden windmills, is helping children who are neglected. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration on Children, Youth and Families, Children’s Bureau reported in 2013 Blue and silver pinwheels can be placed anywhere! In your garden, on the steps of City Hall, your church, or even in your office. Please help us stop child abuse by raising awareness and funds by purchasing your own pinwheels this month.

April/may 2015

Appalachian Country Living

that in the 50 states, District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, an estimated 679,000 children were abused or neglected victims. The saddest report is that 1,484 children lost their lives because of gross injurious mistreatment. Yet the majority of these cases are preventable when community programs and systems are engaged and supportive. A caring community, made up of individuals and organizations, can foster healthy children and families that nurture. Footsteps for Families is a program designed and administered by Prevent Child Abuse Pickens (PCAP) which greets expectant parents and provides them guidance, parenting education, referrals and family support throughout pregnancy. The goal of PCA Pickens is simple – to stop child abuse and neglect before it starts. Preparing parents for their new life of caring for a newborn, with all its challenges goes a long way toward preventing serious problems from developing. A follow up program by PCA Pickens, Parents as Teachers, stays with the family, until the child enters kindergarten, coaching them in the preparing their child for school and beyond. Every child needs to feel safe, healthy, nurtured, loved. Unfortunately, maligned children offer suffer toxic stress as a result of neglect and this damages their brains in ways that create outcomes that last a lifetime. Not only does abuse harm more than just an individual child’s chances for and happy life and success as an adult but it also increases the annual economic burden of communities for future generations. This is where a concerned community steps up and helps prevent such tragic futures. Whenever blue pinwheells are spied around the Pickens County community, there is a reminder that help is being provided to wronged children who cannot help themselves. All citizens can play a role in the lives of hurting children. Working together, a strong chain of help can be built to overcome abuse and neglect. Anyone can www.aclivingmagazine.com

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Featuring Fresh Local Trout and Certified Black Angus Steak Serving Since 1992 Complimentary Birthday Meal

706.632.7891 8055 Aska Road Blue Ridge, GA 30513

www.ToccoaRiversideRestaurant.com

North Georgia Furniture & Home Decor Find Your Creekside Retreat at Windsong At Seven Hills

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!

Tour the Award-Winning Henley Model The Height of Luxury in 50+ Active Adult Relaxing Setting & Private Clubhouse Breezy Hill Country of Dallas, Georgia Walkable, Amenity-rich Seven Hills 31 Bellwind Lane Dallas, GA 30132

770-917-8082

WindsongLife.com

From I-75, take Exit #278, Glade Road and travel West. At Hwy. 92 (Lake Acworth), turn Right. At Hwy. 41, turn Right and travel North. Turn Left onto Cedarcrest Road & travel 4.4 miles. Turn Right into Seven Hills (at Publix). Travel 2 miles down the Boulevard and you will see Windsong Manor on the Left. Sales office is inside the model.

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Like many good things in life, North Georgia Furniture & Home Decor is a little hard to find, but certainly worth the effort! 2142 Tails Creek Road, Ellijay GA 30540

Located 2 miles from Dairy Queen on Highway 282 in west Ellijay

706. 635. 4202 Visit us on the web at: http://ngfh.net

Appalachian Country Living

APRIL/maY 2015

AC LIVING COMMUNITY

The PCAP highlight of the year is their Long Table at Main (LToM) Dinner Gala. In 2014 it provided a night to remember for 175 guests on Main Street with delicious food, an outstanding 18-piece orchestra, dancing under the stars, and a copious amount of fun and community camaraderie. LToM 2015 promises to be bigger, better and more magical as caring people gather to celebrate their caring for kids in crisis. Save the date: Saturday October 10th!

join PCA Picken’s work to give every parent and child a bright future, to provide ideas, and foster support and talent. In addition, PCA Pickens work is funded by foundation grants, corporate gifts, special events, private contributions by companies, foundations, organizations, and individuals, who help make a difference in the lives of children and their families. Ongoing with PCA Pickens programs is the dedicated work of volunteers who assist with

compassionate professionals working to provide the highest level of veterinary care for all of your pets. Come visit us today!

To volunteer, donate and purchase or sell pinwheels please contact: Prevent Child Abuse Pickens 1222-C East Church Street Jasper, GA 30143 Phone: 706-253-6488 Email: pcapickens@tds.net Website: www.pcapickens .org

Blue Ridge Mountain

Food Tours

Cohutta Animal Clinic A team of knowledgeable, dedicated and

monthly group activity programs, help with the pinwheel roadblocks, speak about prevention in the community, participate in various events, and provide ideas, support, and talent. The task at hand is to plant blue garden pinwheels and see them spinning throughout Pickens County. Our gardens will look mighty pretty this spring and summer and through autumn because our community cares about its kids in crisis, but more our caring can prevent the bad times and provide the happy times. We are in the business of helping create positive and nurturing home environments to give our children and families the best possible opportunities to grow and thrive. You too can help us grow and enrich families’ lives by volunteering for one of our programs, making a monetary donation or just by talking to us to give us your ideas, support and talents. Prevent Child Abuse Pickens serves as a resource for parents and families, connecting them with help, support, and resources. ACLM

A truly Indulgent Way to Spend an Afternoon OFFERING THREE THEMED FOOD TOURS • Discover unique restaurants, food shops and eateries • Sample delicious foods and beverages along the way • Meet fellow foodies and mingle with chefs and restaurant owners • Discover fun facts and tidbits of history from a local tour guide • Walk away with a satisﬁed stomach and a memorable experience!

To Book Your Tour

Today!

706. 946. 7387 83 DUNBARTON FARM RD • BLUE RIDGE, GA 30513 Monday-Friday 9 to 5 • www.cohuttaanimalclinic.com April/may 2015

Visit Our Web Site: www.BlueRidgeMountainFoodTours.com

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Homesteading

One Womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Experience Living the Latest Trend Since the Slow Food Movement

WORDS: MIchelle Moran PHOTOS: Hannah Queen

I sit, watching the sky darken. I’ve finished my basic daily chores. In my head I revisit the list. Quail, geese and chickens—fed, watered, eggs collected. Rabbit hutch—cleaned. Now the doe has some space to run from her growing 4-week old litter. I still have the onerous task of mucking out our sow’s stall. I’ll need to dispose of the straw she’s kept so warm for her litter this winter. The lice have not died off despite recent bone-chilling weather. Inside the house, I pile the eggs in a basket, keeping quail and chicken eggs separate. Goose eggs normally go to the garage for incubating, but today I pack a half dozen to send to a friend in Louisiana. They’ll hatch under one of his broody Cotton Patch geese. Just as I close the package for shipping, I hear a commotion from the geese. I glance out the window expecting them to be in the pond mating. I can barely see the tops of their heads pointed down and straight out chasing and yelling at something. Slipping back into my boots I run down the hill to chase away whatever predator might be there—only to discover one of my ganders tearing into a hen. He simply hates chickens anytime, but during nesting season his fervent antipathy only grows. I rescue the hen, take her to the barn and make a nest for her near the quiet rabbits and quail so she can rest and recover. And then the rain comes. I don’t feel like mucking a pigpen in the rain. I decide to procrastinate and do the office work piling up on my desk instead. That’s a typical day on the farm.

When we moved to Blue Ridge full-time six years ago, my husband Danny and I expected that there would be a wealth of farmers ready to quench the unending appetite of our restaurant for fresh products. That wasn’t the case. So I feverishly began to look for some space to plant heirloom produce and specialty herbs. We happened upon a small 1.5-acre parcel in town that we were able to turn into a sustainable homestead project to illustrate what anyone can do in their own backyard. The Cook’s Farm, as we named it, is proof that you don’t need 40 acres and a mule, or even 10 fields and a tractor, to have a homestead. Lots as small as an acre can provide abundantly for a family. My concept of homesteading is committing to self-sufficiency on whatever level you are comfortable. For us, it encompasses growing and preserving food, specifically growing and saving heirloom seeds. I focus on raising animals on the American Livestock Conservancy List–breeding for meat

while preserving heirloom bloodlines. Ultimately we’d like to generate our own electricity with solar or wind power. I will probably never make my own fabric or clothing, but some homesteaders take self-sufficiency to that length as well. Ours is a more measured approach, one that fits within our lifestyle and abilities. That is one of the most critical parts of homesteading, I believe. Diving in without testing the waters is a recipe for disappointment if not disaster. The Cook’s Farm has the small footprint of a typical urban/suburban farm, but produces enough product on its half-acre garden to supply specialty items to the restaurant, feed kids during our two weeks of Farm-to-Fork camps in the summer, and have some extra to spare. Our chickens keep the classes, several customers, and our family supplied with farm fresh eggs. Raising backyard chickens is a great place to test your skill set and desire. It’s where I began, researching how to build a coop, learning chicken attributes– layers versus meat

April/may 2015

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chickens– and finding out practical ways to care for chickens. I was immediately hooked. Be sure to check your local zoning laws to make sure it’s legal, and then determine whether you have the patience for baby chicks or want to start off with pullets or hens. Honeybees are another great project for a small farm. Other than the investment in equipment and seasonal tasks, poultry and apiaries are very self-sufficient. A Christmas gift led directly to a change to larger scale production. We were given a Duroc pig for the holidays in 2013. As little Noel grew into a 200-pound gilt, we knew it was time to find a bigger space. And we definitely needed to find one outside the city limits– it’s never a good thing to get a call from the neighbors saying, “Your pig is heading down toward Main Street!”) Now we have a 28-acre parcel. We are slowly making the transition from our original space downtown. Here, we make our own cheese, can our produce, gather our own honey, save our own seeds, and preserve our own meats. I have learned how to give an injection; hatch out chicken, duck and goose eggs. I know how to break ground and plow; how to make a cold frame; how to install an electric fence; and how to deliver and nurse piglets. We make our own sausage and cure our own hams, gather our eggs, and grow our own produce and herbs. There are still plenty of things on my ‘learn to-do list’ that I need to know with the new 18

farm. First on my list is to train a guard dog for our poultry and geese. We lost two of our Cotton Patch Geese the first month–a blow to my spring breeding program with this American Livestock Conservancy rare breed. One thing that is not on my list is learning how to butcher small livestock like rabbits or chickens. Luckily that side of the equation is addressed by my husband Danny—or I can trade services with friends. One thing that homesteading has taught me is how to swap, barter and network with like-minded individuals. It’s always great to meet someone with a boar to mate with your sow; or someone who wants to raise the same rabbits so we can track and trade breeding stock. Homesteading has truly given me the mental and spiritual skills to deal realistically with life, death and failure. No other career or relationship has taught me those so completely. I would like to learn the differences between trees and the unique properties of various types of wood, something my husband can readily do. We’d both like to learn how to witch for water with a forked branch or a bent metal hanger (not really at the top of the list but a cool skill nonetheless). I’d also really like to learn how to read an almanac and to milk a goat. I really need to learn how to set an ear tag or tattoo for animal identification. I have the tools just not the heart for it yet.

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Teaching a new generation about where their food originates is imperative. Kids learn about honey bees, livestock and gardening at The Cook’s Farm Summer Farm-to-Fork Camp. At the end of each week-long session, camper’s families are invited to enjoy a Farm Table feast prepared by their children. Items I treasure– aside from my family and animals? I would have to say, my very own tool set– including my own drill– which was my favorite Christmas gift this year. Now, I really need to learn how to properly use the rest of the tools in our basement. Well, that can wait until the rain passes. ACLM Michelle Moran and her husband Danny Mellman own and operate Harvest on Main, Blue Ridge Grocery, and Masseria Kitchen + Bar. Moran worked for The Nielsen Company as Executive Editor for Gourmet Retailer and Progressive Grocer, as well as Editorial Director of Gourmet Business before a chicken named Betty pulled her into the world of homesteading. For registration and more information about the Farm-to-Table Camp for Kid-Chefs at the Cook’s Farm in Blue Ridge, GA, contact Michelle by email at harvestonmain@gmail.com

APRIL/maY 2015

Modern Homesteading Believe it or not, people are returning to a lifestyle of self-sufficiency lived by many of our great-grandparents. And it’s taking place right now in backyards across urban America. The best part? Anybody can do it. While raising your own produce may seem daunting at first, a little research and planning make even the smallest space rewarding and productive. A modern homesteader doesn’t need acres of land. It may be 1/4 acre or perhaps a 5,000 square foot backyard or even less! Residents of townhouses, patio homes or apartments may have decks, balconies or fire escapes that can serve as the perfect personal small plot. Even several sunny windows can be the extent of a garden. Take advantage of planting in pots and hanging baskets to produce something that you grew… no grocery store required. Communities across the country are approving municipal codes that make it much easier for residents to be more self-sufficient. Examples of what your own community may allow are: chickens, beehives, miniature goats, and rabbits. All of these creatures can adapt and fit into a backyard setting. Clucking, buzzing, and bleating are becoming common sounds in neighborhoods across America. Imagine gathering fresh eggs daily, enjoying honey from your hives, and drinking a glass of milk fresh from your goats? Local food does not get any more local than this. Composting and canning are skills that easily fit in the modern homestead. Composting is basically plant recycling. Plant materials naturally decompose with the assistance of water, oxygen, and heat. Vegetative items, which normally would be destined for the landfill, can be returned to your garden in the form of compost. Once the compost is ready, it can be applied to garden beds adding much-needed organic matter to improve the structure of the soil– and it’s free! Canning is also making quite a comeback. Cooperative extension programs and local chefs are teaching the art and science of canning and all types of homesteaders are taking pride in ‘putting up’ their own tomatoes, jellies, jams, and pickles. To ensure you eat what you harvest, plant what you like and then preserve your harvest for the winter months. Backyard homesteading is within your reach, whether you garden, keep bees, raise chickens, compost, or milk your own miniature goats. The size of your property doesn’t matter; it’s what you do with what you have that makes a difference. Modern homesteading is here to stay.

April/may 2015

Appalachian Country Living

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GRAND Opening S H O W R O O M

Join Outdoor Living-Indoor Comfort for their Showroom Grand Opening April 24-26, Fri & Sat 10-4, Sun 12-4 447 HARMONY SCHOOL RD., JASPER, GA

Food & Music Saturday 11-2 Eze-Breeze rooms on display ... CORETEC PLUS FLOORING FOR PORCHES ON DISPLAY

www.myenclosedporch.com JULIE HEINSMAN 447 HARMONY SCHOOL RD., JASPER, GA SHOWROOM HOURS: WED-SAT 10-4 Business: 706-301-5698 n Cell: 404-550-0270 Website: www.myenclosedporch.com Email: info@myenclosedporch.com

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APRIL/maY 2015

Special Savings for Grand Opening Weekend ...

20% OFF All Patio Furniture

DON’T MISS OUT ... GREAT PATIO FURNITURE ON DISPLAY

20% OFF

All Closet Organizers FOR APPOINTMENTS SET DURING GRAND OPENING WEEKEND

April/may 2015

Appalachian Country Living

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A mountain breeze rustles through the leaves and the gentle of sound song birds travels sthrough the air. Fragrant pines bend and whisper their secrets. The blossoms of the wild flowers and the echoes of the wild are part of natures beauty for all to share.

Y At Covered Bridge Estates in Ellijay we welcome you to the beauty of the north Georgia Mountains by making them your home.

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Appalachian Country Living

WElcome Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Home to Covered Bridge estates Beauty & Quality Craftsmanship

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APRIL/maY 2015

ocated in an idyllic setting at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, at the southern end of the Appalachian trial, in Ellijay, Georgia, Covered Bridge Estates, developed by Ellijay Associates, LLC, has recently completed its newest model home in the premiere gated community. The development sits between scenic Carters Lake and the Gilmer County Airport off highway 382. The current 2,000 square feet Craftsmen styled model is designed by the award-winning firm of Don Gardener Architects, accentuating its 2.17 acre lot, the model is open daily Monday through Saturday from 10am to 4pm and Sundays from Noon to 4pm. While the newest featured home which is scheduled to break ground this spring is almost 1,900 square feet designed by architect Sidney Haynes, of Macon, Georgia. Haynes walks each site before he draws his plans to assure his design flows with and is a part of the land. Jackson & Associates General Contractors are the builders, with a well-earned reputation in the construction and renovation industry. Their work totals almost 1,000 residential units. President Tom Jackson of the contracting company noted, “Our team is capable of building anything from a rustic retreat to a posh penthouse; thus, providing the homeowner with the dream home they’ve envisioned.” The newest home is the latest in home interior custom design at Covered Bridge Estates. Jackson points out the following: It is not the typical or standard model. The exterior walls are constructed with 2x6 framing, not the typical 2x4’s and fortified with half-inch plywood siding as opposed to standard industry requirements. The exterior is a combination of stacked stone, James Hardi cementous-type lap siding and shakes complemented exterior windows and doors manufactured by Pella Windows and doors, that include the great performance with argon-filled, tinted and february/march 2015

Upper Left: Our contemporary kitchen boasts Kraftmaid wood cabinets, GE Profile Stainless Steel applaiances, 3cm granite counters and stone floors. Lower Left: On chilly evenings, enjoy the warmth of the fireplace and wood floors throughout. The inlayed stone foyer offers a functional and beautiful transition into the home. Above: Bring the outdoors in with an elevated patio and a rustic stone fireplace overlooking a serene wooded homesite. insulated glass. The interior frames are painted wood and aluminum -cladding on the exterior. The fiberglass-stained entry door is manufactured by Therma tru, with sidelights and a transom. Jackson suggests that the home is almost maintenance-free with such an array of well-chosen designer amenities such as kitchen cabinets manufactured by Kraftmaid, shaker-style wood cabinets, a center gas cooking island, and 3 cm, thicker and stronger, granite counter tops, as well as the American-made General Electric appliances. Most rooms are designed with vaulted or raised ceilings. A spacious bonus room is located above the oversized two-car attached garage, accessible from inside the home. For outdoor relaxation, this model homes touts both the front and rear porches covered with natural stones and with v-groove stained/painted wood ceilings. The great room is equipped with a gas designer fireplace and wood floors in the living and dining areas, with stone flooring in the kitchen, the options in this home a literally too numerous to list Another plus to having the service of Jackson and Associates is that Jackson is a LEED AP and can accommodate any additional “green needs” desired. LEED, or Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design, is a

Appalachian Country Living

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Appalachian Country Living

APRIL/maY 2015

The newest model, the Carrollton, is open daily for touring at Covered Bridge Estates in Ellijay. Fine home construction completed by Jackson & Associates General contractors, Inc.

green building certification program that recognizes best-in-class building strategies and practices. To receive LEED certification, building projects satisfy prerequisites and earn points to achieve different levels of certification. “Also, my firm prefers to work with qualified local tradesmen in the community,” Jackson said. Covered Bridge Estates is a professionally planned, gated community, enhanced with Flat Creek winding its way through the neighborhood. Phases 1 and 2 include more than 157 acres of property, with 88 home sites ranging in size from one to three acres. Ellijay Associates LLC, welcomes prospective site buyers to bring their own builder provided he or she is properly licensed and insured or they may use one of the Ellijay suggested builders. Paved roads are already installed. Water, cable, telephone, and electricity is connected to each home site. Amenities already existing and those proposed are: open pavilion and community center adjacent to Flat Creek, with a park, picnic area, outdoor fireplace or just a leisurely walk along the community paved roads which will provide you just over 3 miles. Only minutes away are 100 miles of bicycle trials, hiking trails, golf, fishing, boating, kayaking, tubing, jet-skiing, hunting, horseback riding, an abundance and variety of good dining at area restaurants, outdoor, cafes, antique shops, a variety of boutiques, apple orchards, and vineyards. With Gilmer county Airport nearby, pilots are drawn to visit the new Fixed Base Operator and hangars. The airport manager Jim Smith welcomes visitors. Historic downtown Ellijay offers delightful meandering on the circle round. Engelheim Vineyards is the newest neighbor operated by retired Colonel Gary Engel and his wife Jan. In 2011 they had their first vintage —and in 2015 they were winning coveted awards. Covered Bridge Estates is nestled near many outstanding natural attractions such as Amicalola State Park, where the highest waterfall east of the April/may 2015

Mississippi is found. Yet it is less than an hour from Atlanta. The home sites at Covered Bridge estates start in the mid $30,‘s and the home start in the mid $250’s. , “Nature makes it beautiful, we make it home.” Ellijay Associates LLC is the original developer of Covered Bridge Estates. There’s never been a foreclosure, it’s owned totally by Ellijay Associates LLC and is debt-free, an anomaly in the business. Covered Bridge Estates is considered a definite positive addition to the communities and families of the north Georgia mountains, as well as the Gilmer County Chamber of Commerce. The managing partners of Ellijay Associates LLC are reputed for their residential projects beyond Georgia such as the recently completed Grande Bay Resort on the island of St. John, the united States Virgin Islands. ACLM Interested is touring this handsome bit of north Georgia grandeur? Mike Kunkel, the on-site project manager, is located at the Covered Bridge Estates sales center Monday through Friday. Call Mike at 706-889-6839 or email him at mike@estatescoveredbridge.com Or contact sales associate James Nichols. The furnished model home is open 10 a.m. -4 p.m., Monday-Saturday or Sunday noon-4 p.m. Address: 90 Bridge Road, Ellijay, Georgia 30540. Website: www.estatesatcoveredbridge.com Driving directions to Covered Bridge Estates: Highway 5/515 in Ellijay from the north turns right, from the south turns left onto Howard Simmons Road (CVS/Chik-fil-A). Travel 1.2 miles until road ends at Old Highway 5, turn left and proceed another 1.5 miles. Turn right onto 382 West (Conoco/Greens Country Store). Travel another 3.7 miles west of Old Highway 5, entrance to Covered Bridge Estates greets you at left.

Appalachian Country Living

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Appalachian Country Living

APRIL/maY 2015

AC LIVING RECIPES

Let’s Go

Retro! Mad Men, Martinis and Madras! Groovy, Swell and Outta Sight! Whatever Era you Choose– Turn That Spring Dinner Party into a Swingin’ Soiree with these Far Out Recipes. We Promise– You’ll be the Cat’s Pajamas and the Bee’s Knees. Can You Dig It?

Appalachian Country Living

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Appalachian Country Living

APRIL/maY 2015

April/may 2015

Appalachian Country Living

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2015 Spring & Summer Festivals

Welcome to the most complete list of festivals and events in north Georgia! There’s surely more to do this Spring than humanly possible and we’re certain there’s something here for everyone. While every attempt has been made to provide accurate event listings, we urge you to confirm the information provided before making travel plans. With that said, come and see all that north Georgia and the southern Appalachians has to offer!

18th Annual Blue Ridge Writer’s Conference April 10-11, 2105

A literary tradition and unique cultural asset enjoyed by our many writers and aspiring writers each March as they gather in Blue Ridge, GA to learn more about their special craft. For additional information visit: www.blueridgewritersconference.com, or call 706. 632. 2144. 32

Georgia Mountain Storytelling Festival- “Claim Your Voice” April 10-11, 2105

Featuring some of the brightest stars in storytelling. Learn about the rich cultural history of Appalachia through storytelling and have the opportunity to become part of its preservation. Performances will enrich and educate listeners, and workshops will enable festival-goers to claim their own voices and become storytellers themselves. We’ll also have a special storytelling session just for children, traditional Appalachian music and crafts. Seating is limited. Purchase tickets in advance via www. gmsf.eventbrite. com is strongly recommended. Follow us on Facebook for the latest festival news: Rollins Campus Center, Young Harris College, 1 College Street, Young Harris, GA 30582, 706379-5115.

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Appalachian Country Living

3rd Alpine Helen Annual Spring Fest April 11, 2015

Help us welcome Spring to Helen at our annual Springfest! This will be a celebration of new life returning to the mountains of Northeast Georgia. Enjoy music, dancing, food, and beverages in the Festhalle on the banks of the beautiful Chattahoochee River. 6pm-11pm. Alpine Helen Festhalle, 1074 Edelweiss St., Helen, GA 30545. Sponsored by the Helen Chamber of Commerce. www.helenchamber.com or 706.878-1908.

19th Annual Bear on the Square Mountain Festival April 18- 19. 2015

Historic Downtown Dahlonega’s award-winning Bear on the Square Mountain Festival is a yearly celebration of the Southern Appalachian culture, APRIL/maY 2015

including music, art and folkways. Dahlonega is a picturesque town in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains and this year’s event will be held in and around the town’s Historic Square during the third weekend in April. For more info visit www.bearonthesquare.org. Contact Information: (706) 864-3711 or (800) 231-5543.

39th Annual Big Shanty Festival April 18-19, 2015

Sponsored by Superior Plumbing, The Big Shanty Festival has grown to become one of the largest arts and crafts shows in north Georgia. More than 250 booths featuring a vast array of one-of-a-kind and homemade crafts. The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History sits at the center of the festival. FREE Robinson’s Racing Pigs and Paddling Porkers Show. Outstanding local entertainment and all your favorite festival foods. Parade kicks off at 9:30 am on Saturday. at Adams Park and continue down Main Street through downtown Kennesaw. FREE. For more information call Peter Jezerinac or Bill Watson at 770-423-1330 or visit www.kennesawbusiness.org

Earth Week Celebration April 22- 26, 2015

Enjoy a full week celebrating our planet.Native plant information, natural medicines, Trail of Tears information, nature hikes, fishing tournaments, gospel music and much more! April 22 - Opening Ceremonies 9:00 am, miscellaneous events. April 23 - Information Station, Gospel Sing, Trout Fishing Tournament & more. April 24 - Information Station, Trout Fishing Tournament & more. April 25 - Trout Fishing Tournament, Information Station, Fish Fry & more. April 26 - Closing Ceremonies 1:00 pm. Events take place in Andrews, NC– a beautiful, peaceful small town located within the heart of North Carolina’s Great Smoky Mountains. Individual locations vary by activity. For more info visit: www.andrewsnc.com or contact Eve Miranda at 1-828-342-3265.

3rd Annual Bud Break Weekend in Mountain Wine Country April 24- 26, 2015

The Mountain Wine Country Cooperative is delighted to present the 3rd Annual Bud Break Wine Weekend in Mountain Wine Country. Purchase a passport at any of the twelve participating wineries and receive a Mountain Wine Country glass. This passport gives you access to taste wines at each of the nine wineries and three days of fun. Each winery is offering a special experience to its Bud Break Weekend visitors! April/may 2015

This is an excellent way to have a quick weekend getaway from the winter’s cabin fever and explore all the areas of Mountain Wine Country. Visit www.mountainwinecountry.com for info and a list of participating wineries

Smyrna Spring Jonquil Festival April 25 – 26, 2015

The Jonquil Festival is located on the beautiful Village Green in downtown Smyrna and will showcase arts and crafts by more than 150 artists/crafters from across the country. The event also offers fun for the entire family to enjoy with continuous entertainment, a children’s section, and a wide selection of festival foods. The Jonquil Jog will kick the festival off Saturday morning at 8:00 a.m., with the 5K Run/Walk. The jog will be held at the City of Smyrna Municipal Building next to the Village Greenregistration is required call 770-319-5401 or on-line at www.smyrnacity.com). The festival hours of operation are 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., on Saturday, April 25, and noon - 5:00 p.m., on Sunday, April 26. Admission is FREE. For more information call Tod Miller or Bill Watson at 770-423-1330.

25th Georgia Mountain Rally Hosted by the BMW Motorcycle Club of Georgia May 1 – 3, 2015

The BMW Motorcycle Club of Georgia celebrates its 25th Georgia Mountain Rally with a Silver Celebration events program at the fairgrounds in Hiawassee over May 1st to 3rd, 2015. The area offers rewarding twisties, inspiring vistas and renowned mountain hospitality. Plus, this is dual-sport heaven for all skill levels. The perfect start to anyone’s riding season! Visit www.bmwmcoga.org or rally@bmwmcoga.org.

2nd Annual Georgia Apple Blossom Festival May 2-3, 2015

The Georgia Apple Blossom Festival focus is everything LOCAL. Hosting the best arts, craft and food vendors in the region. The festival will be pet-friendly and offer no cost for admission. There will be plenty of parking and restaurants in close proximity to the festival grounds. Only an hour north of Atlanta you can come enjoy the festival, and all the sights and scenery Gilmer County has to offer. 9am-5pm in East Ellijay on Craig Street parallel to Highway 515. Visit www. georgiaappleblossomfestival.com or contact: Gilmer County Chamber 706-635-7400.

6th Annual North Cobb Rotary Smoke on the Lake BBQ Festival May 8 -9 , 2015

Superior Plumbing is presenting the event which kicks off with a free concert and fireworks on Friday night. This Georgia Barbecue Associationsanctioned barbecue cooking competition will continue all night along the banks of beautiful Lake Acworth and the event will open back up to the public on Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m. You can visit the teams and taste all the BBQ you desire, as the Taster’s Choice award will also be decided by patrons of the event. Tickets to taste the backyard teams BBQ will be on sale for a nominal charge. Vote with your stomach early and often to crown the winner of a Primo Grill and the title of the 2015 People’s Choice Champion. Activities for the kids will be in the Kids Zone. For information, call (770) 4231330, or visit www.smokeonthelake.org and follow us on facebook.

26th Annual Cherokee Indian Festival & Mother’s Day Powwow May 9 -10, 2015

6th Annual Trail Fest May 2, 2015

Greenprints Alliance Trailfest starts with a 5K race, 1 mile Fun Run, followed by live music, food, beer and community. Food vendors and beer will be available while you enjoy the music. Try your skills on the mountain bike trail! We have built a 1/8 mile test track in the event area. If biking isn’t your thing, there will be other activities as well including a rock climbing wall. 8am – 8pm; Market Street and the Elm Street Arts Village Event Green in Downtown Woodstock. The space is located one block west of Main Street and one block south of Towne Lake Parkway. Visit www.woodstocktrails.com or call 770- 517-6788.

Appalachian Country Living

Celebrating Cherokee County’s rich history through entertainment, education and cultural fellowship! Native American dance exhibitions and competitions. Warriors on horseback. Native American cuisine such as buffalo, roasted corn, Pima wraps, Indian fry-bread and more. Native arts and crafts. Hoop dancers and Aztec dancers. Tipis, wigwam and living Indian village and displays. Northern Plains encampment and a Muscogee Creek settlement. Environmental and wildlife displays & Birds of Prey show. Saturday, May 9:10am - 6pm and Sunday, May 10: 11am - 6pm. Tickets on sale at the gate: Adults (13 years and up): $15. Children (6-12 years old): $5. 5 years and under: FREE. Everyone is welcome! Boling Park, 1098 Marietta Hwy., Canton, GA 30114. For more info: www.rthunder.com , 770-735-6275 or rollingthunder34@ ymail.com. www.aclivingmagazine.com

5th Annual Georgia Mountain Egg Fest May 15 – 16, 2015

An EggFest is a gathering of Big Green Egg fans and experienced cooks/chefs from all across the country. The cooks will be preparing recipes all day long. The non-cooks (tasters) are free to stroll through the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Hiawassee, GA and sample and experience wonderful egged food. For important details visit: www.mountainegg.com

4th Annual Woodstock Public Safety Foundation Spring Fest May 16, 2015

Blue Ridge Chamber Music Festival Season II Musical Journey June 18-28 ❖

Blue Ridge & Dawsonville Venues World Class Musicians in the Beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains

❖ For Tickets and Info www.brcmf.com

305. 878.1985 34

Help support the many different projects of the Foundation and Woodstock Police & Fire Departments. An early morning “Hustle for Heroes” 5K race is planned at First Baptist Woodstock, register at www.active.com! Come out and “legally out run the Police and smoke the Firemen”! Following the race from 10am to 5pm, the fun begins for all! Join us at The Park at City Center for a huge kid’s zone with moonwalks, games, rock climbing wall, bungee ride, monster water balls, and other fun activities! Enjoy the Police k-9 demos, food vendors, arts & craft vendors, DJ, and live music in the gazebo all day! Explore police & fire trucks on display. Participate in the fundraising raffle and win many, many valuable prizes donated from the great supporters of the Woodstock Public Safety foundation! Visit www.wpsfoundation.org or 770-592-6000 for more info.

Mountain Flower Art Festival May 16-17, 2015

The festival, located on the historic square of Dahlonega, Georgia, is a juried art and quality craft festival held for over 20 years on the 3rd weekend in May. In conjunction with the arts festival there will be local plant and flower vendors. Please join us for this wonderful, historic event! Come out and see your favorite exhibitors as well as the addition of new exhibitors. Saturday night there will be an artist reception at the Old Cannery Arts Center just off the square, 61 Enota Street, Dahlonega Georgia from 5:30 to 7:00 pm. The 2015 Mountain Flower Art Flower is being produced by the Dahlonega Arts Council. For more info: www.dahlonegarts.org or 706-482-8390.

ized historic downtown district. The annual Canton Festival of the Arts features: Artist’s Market with over 75 exhibitors from nine states. Serenity Gardens celebrates the art of living well. If you are interested in gardening, sustainability, incorporating nature into your life and all things green, this is the place for you. Tempting food concessions and a wine and beer garden. The Interactive Children’s Experience offers hands on art activities for children, including mural painting, photography, drawing, dance, drama and so much more. Live entertainment on the Main Stage. Historic Downtown Canton on Saturday and Sunday, May 16-17 from 10am-5pm. For more info visit www. cherokeearts.org/festival or Email: info@cherokeearts.org.

Bavarian Fest May 23, 2015

Experience a bit of Bavaria while you and your family enjoy this Memorial Day celebration at the Festhalle! A live Oompa band, dancing, and a festive Bavarian atmosphere help us honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. Imported and domestic beer and wines; wursts on a bun, sauerkraut, hot dogs, pretzels and desserts will be available for sale. 6pm to 11pm. Active military and veterans receive free admission. 1074 Edelweiss Strasse, Helen GA. For more information contact www.helenchamber.com or call 706-878-1908.

39th Annual Spring Arts in the Park Festival May 23-24, 2015

Memorial Day Weekend in Historic Downtown Blue Ridge. With over 185 fine arts, crafts and food booths, Arts in the Park has something for everyone. Enjoy a wide variety of arts, crafts, food and more. There are always activities for the children, along with special events for the big kids. Blue Ridge, Georgia is one of the top art destinations in the country and features a unique shopping experience in its downtown shops and galleries and Arts in the Park is one of the town’s signature events. Saturday and Sunday 10am – 5pm. For more info visit www.blueridgearts.net or call Lisa Tyler at 706-632-2144.

8th Annual Blairsville Spring Arts & Crafts Festival May 23-24, 2015

Canton Festival of the Arts May 16-17, 2015

Just 40 minutes from downtown Atlanta, Canton offers the charm of a historic river town with a view of the North Georgia mountains. The festival is located in Canton’s newly revital-

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Appalachian Country Living

Celebrating at TWO locations this year! Most vendors & all food vendors will be at the The Historical Society’s Mountain Life Museum Butt-Mock House and Payne Cabin, one block south of the Square. Other vendor will be on the grass around the Courthouse and local musiAPRIL/maY 2015

cian Sam Ensley will have jamming going on thru out the day Saturday & Sunday and there will music for both the Mock House and at the Courthouse Friday night. Saturday & Sunday 10am – 5pm. Visit the Union County Historical Society at www.unioncountyhistory.org or call 706-745-5493.

1st Annual ClusterFest at Crane Creek May 30, 2015

Celebrate SPRING and join us for our, a celebration of regional musical talent, artisans, wine, and food at Crane Creek Vineyards. Local and Regional singer\songwriters will be performing all day at the vineyard. Come for your favorite, or listen to them all. $20.00 per guest includes daily admission, food, wine tasting, shopping local artisans, a souvenir Crane Creek Vineyards wine glass, in addition to a front row seat to some of our areas best talent! 11am -6:00pm. Crane Creek Vineyards, 916 Crane Creek Road, Young Harris, GA. For more info: www. cranecreekvineyards.com or 706-379-1236.

Wing & Rock Fest May 30- 31, 2015

The Wing and Rock Festival is a 2-day family friendly food & music event that has something for everyone. This FREE event is the third largest wing fest in the country featuring some of Atlanta’s best tasting chicken wings from local restaurants & bars plus great live music on two stages featuring over a dozen bands. For the kids we have jumpies, rides, face painting & more along with local teen bands on the gazebo stage. For the adults we will have cold beverages to wash down those tasty wings and specialty foods plus a large art and crafts area for those looking for some unique hand crafted items from the area. Saturday, May 30, Noon – 10:00 p.m., Sunday, May 31, Noon – 6:00 p.m. The Park at City Center Woodstock, GA. www.whatsupwoodstock.com

30th Annual British in the Blue Ridge June 5 – 6, 2015

Make your camping reservations with Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds for the event. We look forward to seeing everyone for another fun weekend of British Bikes in the north Georgia mountains! Rally, rides and bike show. Sponsored by the Greater Atlanta British Motorcycle Association. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Hiawassee, GA. Visit www.gabma. us or www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com

April/may 2015

Arts in the Park, Downtown Blue Ridge

30th Annual British in the Blue Ridge June 5 – 6, 2015

Family Fishing Festival June 6, 2015

Family Fishing Festival is a free event to youth ages 16 and under. Bring your own fishing gear and bait. Free lunch, prizes, exhibit booths, and scavenger hunt. Georgia Sport Fishing Regulations will apply. 9am - 4pm At the Chattahoochee Forest National Fish Hatchery, Located on Rock Creek Road off GA Hwy 60 near Suches, GA. Contact 706-838-4723 or chattahoocheeforest@fws.gov.

15th Annual Waterfest June 6-7, 2015

Coosawattee River Basin Initiative’s Annual Paddle Sports and Environmental Education Extravaganza will take place at Rome, Georgia’s Heritage Park on the Etowah River. Join us for paddle-powered fun including our 6 -Mile Canoe Kayak, Paddle Board and Raft Race. Other events may include Canoe & Kayak Tug-O-Wars, Environmental Fair and Exhibits, Environmental Scavenger Hunt for kids, live animal demonstrations from Coosa River Science School, great food and the Environmental Quiz Appalachian Country Living

Bowl competition for area elementary schools. For more info visit www.coosa.org or call 706232-CRBI (2724).

42nd Annual Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race & Festival June 4 – 6, 2015

The South’s oldest balloon event will begin with a mass ascension of 30 colorful hot air balloons. Balloonists compete in local events Thursday evening beginning around 6pm thru Saturday. Local flying events will take place also on Friday and Saturday. The balloons will fly around 7:30 am and 6:00 pm each day (weather permitting). Many opportunities available to the public; assisting with the inflations, being a part of a chase crew, taking a tethered ride in a balloon or a champagne flight over the mountains. For more information contact Race Headquarters at 706878-2271 to schedule a balloon flight. www. helenballoon.com.

5th Annual Art, River and Music Festival June 6, 2015

Downtown Murphy, NC on the beautiful River Walk trail located at the Historic L&N Depot. The Farmers Market will take place at the Depot, and the Art, River and Music Festival will stretch back in the cool shade along the River Walk trail. Arts activities for kids are available during the day, as well as other fun diversions! Art: Over 50 local and regional artists will have booths both in the Farmers Market and in the juried section along the River Walk. These fine crafters and artists will have a variety of wonderful art for sale including jewelry, woodturning, pottery, weaving, photography, woodcarvings, www.aclivingmagazine.com

artet

Bergonzi String Qu

2nd Annual Appalachian Jazz & Art Festival June 12 – 13, 2015

furniture, paintings, baskets and much more. Live demonstrations of artists work will be featured throughout the day. River: Appalachian Outfitters and the Hiwassee River Watershed Coalition (HRWC) will lead free to the public canoe trips on the river, visiting various points of interest. In addition, HRWC will judge a crazy float contest on the river at 2pm. Music: The stage will feature local and regional musicians and dancers throughout the day and will include music and dance traditional to our unique mountain region, as well as contemporary original music! FREE! 9am - 4pm. For more info visit www.cherokeeartscouncil.org

Join us for the 2nd annual Appalachian Wine & Jazz Festival located in the beautiful North Georgia Mountains at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. Enjoy two complete days of the finest wine, jazz, food and artists. The Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds are located along the shores of beautiful Lake Chatuge in the north Georgia mountain community of Hiawassee and is only two hours from Atlanta, Greenville, Ashville and Chattanooga. Tickets: Friday Only - $20.00, Saturday Only - $40.00, Friday & Saturday $50.00. Hours: Friday - 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Saturday - 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM. For more info: gamtfair@windstream.net , 706-896-4191 or www. mountainwinefest.com

12th Annual Blairsville Scottish Festival & Highland Games June 12 – 14, 2015

Residents and visitors look forward to the second weekend in June when Blairsville spotlights the heritage of their area. This three day event offers a Kilted Golf Classic; Ceilidh (din-

ner party); Pipe and Drum Bands; Athletic Competitions; Vendors; Children’s Games; a Concert; and Scottish Food, Music, Dancing, Reenactments and the popular Mini-Cooper Car Show. This is one unique festival you just can’t miss! No pets. For Additional Information Visit: www. BlairsvilleScottishFestival.com. Contact Information: 706-745-2161 or email: BSFHG1@yahoo.com.

Mountain Fling

June 27- 28, 2015 Blairsville, GA. Enjoy arts & crafts galore the last weekend in June. Exhibits set both indoors and out. The event will be held at North Georgia Technical College in Blairsville, GA. 6/27: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 6/28: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. See more at: www.blairsvillechamber.com. Contact Information: 706-896-0932.

Blue Ridge Chamber Music Festival Season II: Musical Journey June 18- 28, 2015

Professional musicians Maggie & Scott Flavin thought it would be great to start a small festival, invite friends and colleagues of international stature to perform, and give something back to Blue Ridge. They bring three exciting world-

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APRIL/maY 2015

class ensembles to our area in a combination of Festival Concerts, Encore Performances and Family Concerts. Festival Concerts Blue Ridge United Methodist Church 322 West Main St. Blue Ridge, GA •June 19 7:00 p.m. “From Russia with Love” Bergonzi String Quartet •June 21 3:00 pm“From Glenn Miller to Mozart” The Backsliders • June 26 7:00pm “Across the Pond: Songs from the British Isles” Jana Young, soprano, Marina Radiushina, piano • June 28 3:00pm “Coming Home” PULSE Trio Encore Performances Grace Presbyterian Church 170 Georgia 9, Dawsonville, GA • June 20 7:00 p.m. “From Russia with Love” Bergonzi String Quartet •June 27 7:00pm “Across the Pond: Songs from the British Isles” Jana Young, soprano Marina Radiushina, piano, Family Concerts Presented in partnership with the Fannin County Library First Baptist Youth Center 907 East Main St. Blue Ridge, GA • June 18 3:00pm “Peter and the Wolf ” Bergonzi String Quartet • June 25 3:00pm “Gulliver’s Travels” Margaret Donaghue Flavin, Baroque recorders Scott Flavin, Baroque violin Tickets: Online at www.brcmf.com or at the door: Single Concerts $20/$10; Festival Pass $60/$30. Admission to Family Concerts is free, however there is a suggested donation of a canned good or non-perishable item, to be donated to Feed Fannin. For info: www.brcmf. com, 305.878.1985, email info@brcmf.com.

Woodstock, GA Freedom Fest July 4, 2015

Our huge parade kicks off the celebration at 10am. After the parade, join us in The Park at City Center until 3pm for food, live music, and children’s games, cake walk, arts & crafts, and vendors of all types. Fun for young and old! Don’t forget the Annual Woodstock Freedom Run at 7:30am. See http://www.woodstockfreedomrun.com/ for more details. The day concludes with fireworks at dusk behind the Target shopping center. For info visit: www.woodstockparksandrec.com

Georgia Mountain Fair, Hiawassee, GA

Georgia’s rich history and culture, the Fair provides something for every member of the family. Georgia Mountain Fair, Inc. P.O. Box 444, Hiawassee, Georgia 30546, Phone: (706) 8964191 or www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com

17th Annual Butternut Creek Festival July 18-19, 2015

Celebrate and enjoy the Arts of this Mountain Region! The Butternut Creek Festival is one of the finest juried arts and crafts shows in the southeast. The two-day festival showcases the work of 65 artists and craftsmen in categories from basketry, fine art, fabric art, and decorative painting, to glass, jewelry, metal working, photography, pottery, scrimshaw, and woodturning. Held annually at Meeks Park in Blairsville, Georgia, you don’t want to miss it! Visit www. butternutcreekfestival.com Contact info: 706781-1221 or email: butternutcreekfestival@ gmail.com.

Blairsville Green Bean Festival

July 25 , 2015 Celebrate the green bean and “green” living

Thousands of visitors from across the region have experienced the excitement and nostalgia that this event has to offer. With first class musical performances, arts & crafts, fun carnival rides, unique attractions and a glimpse into North

the last weekend in July with pageants, a square dance, tractor show, quilting exhibit, storytellers, crafts, “living green” demonstrations, farmers’ market, and “Green Ribbon” recipe contest. Look for different varieties of green beans (from heirloom pole beans to mountain white halfrunners) and lots of other fresh, juicy produce freshly harvested by Union County farmers. The whole county turns out for this family “Country Fair” type event. Blairsville Farmer’s Market, 148 Old Smokey Road , Blairsville, GA 30512. Visit www.blairsvillechamber.com.

April/may 2015

Appalachian Country Living

65th Annual Georgia Mountain Fair July 17 – 25

Annual Mountain Moonshine Cruiz-In July 30- August 1 , 2015

Come join us for the Annual Georgia Mountain Moonshine Cruiz-In at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds on beautiful Lake Chatuge. Camping is available. Stay right at the show site. Enjoy three fun filled days of good ole mountain hillbilly fun. See a Pioneer village, real moonshine still in the works, mountain crafts, and plenty of hot classic cars, trucks, bikes, rat rods and more! Contact us: 662- 587- 9572 or www.gammoonshinecruizin.com

2015 The Young Harris Art Fest August 29 - 30, 2015

This show will be held at Mayors Park located in Young Harris GA. This is an outdoor show in a grassed area with fairly level ground. This is a juried show so all items offered must be hand made by the artist. This show starts the fall line up for shows in the Mountains. Free Parking and Free Admission. Hours: SAT 10am - 5pm, SUN 10am -4pm. Mayors Park - Hwy 76 - Young Harris, GA. Contact Robin Roberts Promotions 706-897-6179 or visit www.robinrobertspromotions.com for more information.

Note:

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! ACLM

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AC LIVING Business profile

Destress at a Stressbuster Cabin

Overworked? Overtired? Or do you just want to escape to the serenity of north Georgia, with its breathtaking views of the mountains, lake and streams? A call to Joy Lyle with Stressbuster Cabin Rentals will find you a real, live person answering at the other end or a prompt e-mail reply written by the same real, live person. As Joy says, “No switchboard, no being put on hold, no office help, just me.” Prospective renters will find their specific wants for cabin size, number of bedrooms, pet friendly needs, handicapped accessibility, dates desired, even a cabin with a pool table if that’s your desire– whatever you’re looking for– from one source: Joy. She’s available 24/7– even when she’s on vacation. Her laptop, calendar, and cell phone are with her; she does it all from any place. This assures you that you and your wants aren’t lost in the shuffle, “That cuts down with a lot of misunderstanding and misinformation,” she assures. It also means that if any problems or emergencies occur that she’ll be right on top of it. Stressbuster Cabin Rentals aim is to provide memorable getaways with lasting memories, “We’ve had proposals, weddings, anniversaries, reunions, and family vacations. We also have guests who come to the same cabin repeatedly— or some who want to try all our other locations and cabins.” The main question is what do the guests want? 38

Many renters want nothing to do—just sit and enjoy the peace, while others desire a fullystacked list of things to do. The area is abundant with a variety of choices: golfing, boat rentals, trout fishing, canoeing, kayaking, white water rafting, tubing, zip lining, vineyards, scenic railway, horseback riding, cycling, state parks, and more. The annual festivals are big draws but reservations need to be made well in advance to expect to find a cabin during those events. As well, festival dates require a three-day minimum stay. In addition, the nearby quaint towns of Ellijay and Blue Ridge offer outstanding shopping and dining experiences. The cabins, whether a cozy nook for two or a mountain-lodge for a large family or group of friends, are well appointed and squeaky clean. “We offer ‘hot deals’ throughout the year,” Joy says. Returning guests find the special deals as enticing incentives to again enjoy another destressed experience in north Georgia, just 75 miles from Atlanta on Highway 515, but far removed from asphalt jungles.

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Stressbuster Cabin Rentals is a family-owned business since 1995. The business started, “When we bought one cabin. Guests that stayed with us bought their own cabins and asked me to rent out the cabins for them. That’s how we grew, mostly from word of mouth. We kept growing until it became a full-time job.” Joy notes that outside the office duties, which are hers, her current other-task oriented staff members have worked with the business for 10 years. As for the one-on-one relationship with the renters, she says, it means that there’s always help available and your questions will always be answered. “I’m here to answer all your questions, to book cabins—and even give directions to lost guests. That sets us apart from large companies. I’ve had people call at night and when I answer it shocks them, as they expected to get an answering machine.” Joy point outs that when a prospective guest decides to rent one of their cabins and make a deposit, she mails an information packet with the many things to see and do in the area. And then she emphasizes that when you arrive, “You are now entering a stress-free zone.” ACLM For more information contact Joy Lyle: Phone: 706-635-3952 or 404-791-4388 Email: stressbuster@ellijay.com Reserve your cabin today on their web site: wwws.stressbustercabinrentals.com APRIL/maY 2015

Waterfront, mountain view, romantic getaway, luxurious rental home, lodge and pet friendly– with 25 cabins to choose from– we’re sure you’ll find the perfect place to relax!

April/may 2015

Appalachian Country Living

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INSIDE ARTS Thru 5/16 Women’s Work: A Survey of Handmade Textiles from Cherokee County The textiles displayed include household items such as quilts, coverlets, crocheted bedspreads and tablecloths, decorative doilies and pillowcases, etc. Handmade clothing is also featured, including women’s blouses, bonnets, chemises, pantaloons and aprons from the 1800s, several heirloom christening gowns, baby booties, and girls’ dresses from the 1920s. FREE! 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. The Cherokee County History Museum, Suite 140 of the historic marble courthouse at 100 North Street in downtown Canton. www. downtowncantonga.com 4/3-5/1 Women Painters of the Southeast Exhibit Blue Ridge Arts Association and The Art Center Preview Week: April 3 - 10, 2015, Opening Reception and Awards: April 10, 2015 @ 6pm. Celebrate the talents of the Women Painters of the Southeast (WPSE). Contact information: 706-632-2144, blueridgearts@ gmail.com. 430 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, www.blueridgearts.net. 706-632-2144. 4/10-11 The 18th Annual Blue Ridge Writers’ Conference An opening reception will be held on Friday 4/10 at 5pm and is open to the public. This year’s conference will also host a Workshop Intensive on Friday, from 10:30am - 2:30pm. Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Center- 430 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, www. blueridgearts.net. Contact Information: 706-632-2144. 4/10 – 5/14 B.E.S.T Visual Arts Gilmer Arts Center, Ellijay. Opening Reception Friday 4/10 from 5-7pm. Meet the artists and learn about their unique art, while enjoying refreshments and mingling with like-minded art lovers. The reception is free and open to the public. For in-

Appalachian Country Living

NORTH GEORGIA's guide to AREA

Arts | Dining & Dance | Events & Shows | Music | Theater

formation, contact Gilmer Arts at 706635-5605. Gilmer Arts, 207 Dalton St., Ellijay, GA30540. 5/9-6/13 Celebration of Artisans: SAAG Member Show. Blue Ridge Arts Association and The Arts Center. Contact information: 706632-2144, blueridgearts@gmail.com. 430 West Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA, www.blueridgearts.net. 706-632-2144. 5/23-24 Spring Arts in the Park Memorial Day Weekend. Blue Ridge Arts Association and Art Center. Downtown Historic Blue Ridge. 10:005:00pm both days. For more information visit www.blueridgearts.net or call:706-632-2144.

DINING & DANCING Ongoing The Martyn House Social~Supper Club Membership Downton Historic Ellijay. Join the Supper-Club and experience a multicourse culinary journey shared by all guests in a single seating. For information contact The Martyn House in Towne, 131 North Main St. Ellijay, GA 30450. 706-635-5565. www.the martinhouse.com Ongoing Blue Ridge Mountain Food Tours Downtown Historic Blue Ridge. 3 hour guided walking tours will take you on a tasting adventure, sampling delicious foods and beverages along the way. For more info visit: www.blueridgemountainfoodtours.com. 4/18 Taste of Blue Ridge Get your tickets early...They will SELL OUT! Sponsored by Humane Society of Blue Ridge. Local restaurants provide food for tasting.The event includes a silent auction, a live auction, beer/wine and live music, so bring your dancing shoes and an appetite! This great event will be at Willow Creek Falls, 13 Trackside Court from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. For more information visit www. humanesocietyofblueridge.org or call 706- 632-5224.

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4/25 5th Annual “Dancing for the Children” Gala The Service League of Cherokee County presents eight local celebrities who have committed to train for the competition alongside a professional dance instructor. Guests will enjoy dinner and dancing. 6 pm at the Northside Hospital Cherokee Conference Center; 1130 Bluffs Parkway in Canton, GA. For info and ticket sales, contact Julie Pennington at julie.pennington76@ yahoo.com or visit www. serviceleague.net 5/21 Taste of Ellijay North Main Street in Historic Downtown Ellijay. Featuring everything culinary that Gilmer County has to offer. Restaurants will offer samples of their finest flavors. FREE admission and samples will be $1-$4. Everyone is invited to treat their taste buds! For updates on this event: www.gilmerchamber.com or call 706635-7400.

EVENTS On Going Walk Georgia Ellijay, GA. Every Sunday starting in April. Walk Georgia. Move more. Live more. University of Georgia Extension invites you to increase your physical activity level in a fun, communityoriented way. Registration for this free program is open. To learn more, please visit www.walkgeorgia.org. Contact Information: 706-635-4426. Open Year-Round Welcome to the Hike Inn, Amicalola Falls Park & Lodge, Dawsonville. Everyone who makes the five-mile trek through the mountains to the Hike Inn in the Chattahoochee National Forest does so for a different reason. Some come to get away from their everyday lives. Some come to spend quality time with their family. Others come for the Appalachian Trail. But no matter the reason, the result is the same: Everyone leaves with a sense of belonging. Details: www.hike-inn.com

Appalachian Country Living

Open Year-Round Woodstock Market & Show Woodstock, GA Friday and Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 11am-5pm. Fantastic Outdoor Market vintage items, arts & crafts, plants, food and much more. Contact Information: 770924-0406 4/3 Friday Night Live! Downtown Woodstock, Woodstock, GA. Roaring 20’s Night, 6-9pm. Time travel back to the 1920s as the spirit of the Roaring 20’s. Spend the first Friday of every month in Downtown Woodstock and enjoy the many restaurants and stores that the area has to offer as the Downtown Merchants stay open late, www.whatsupwoodstock.com. 4/4 Smithgall Woods State Park Hiking Tours Helen, GA. 10:00AM - 11:30AM, First Saturday of each month. 61 Tsalaki Trail, Helen. First Saturday of each month learn about Smithgall Woods State Park on a brief walking tour of the Visitor Center area and a van tour through the park. See the covered bridge, the famous Dukes Creek, and the park’s renowned cottages. Register in advance. Call: 706-878-3087 or www.gastateparks.org/smithgallwoods 4/10- 4/11 Master Gardener Spring Plant Sale Just in time for Spring planting, gardening enthusiasts will find high quality native plants, perennials, annuals, trees, shrubs, and unique garden items. Master Gardeners will answer questions and share up to date research. Attend one of the many presentations during the event. Food vendors. Located in “The Barn” on the Cumming Fairgrounds. For more information, call 770.887.2418 or visit: www.fcmg.sharepoint.com 4/11 3rd Annual Breathe Deep Blue Ridge 5K walk/fun run through the apple blossoms at Mercier Orchards. This 5K Run is a grassroots event planned and managed by the Mercier Family Orchards. All of the proceeds go to APRIL/maY 2015

the LUNGevity Foundation to fund research, early detection, and lung cancer awareness. There will be food and live entertainment for the whole family. Mercier Orchards, 706-6323411, www.Lungevity.org 4/14-18 Kiwanis Spring Fair Blue Ridge, GA. Kiwanis Fairgrounds, Blue Ridge. Hours are Tuesday through Friday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Saturday from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. From Depot street downtown (between city park and the train depot) head up the hill to E. 1st Street, turn right, then turn left on Church Street and an immediate left again on E. 2nd, go one block turn right on Jones. There will be Rides, Fairway, and Carnival goodies. Contact Information: 706-258-3247 or 706455-0998. 4/18 2015 Vineyards to Vistas Bike Ride. Helen, GA. Calling all leisure cyclists! Enjoy a scenic ride offering three options: A Valley Fun Ride, a 25 Mile Ride, and a 50 Mile Ride; all of these routes start and end at Festhalle in Helen. Rides start at 9AM. There will be an After ride meal of pasta & chicken dinner served in Helen Festhalle from 1pm - 6 pm For more information about the rides contact The White County Chamber of Commerce: http://business. whitecountychamber.org/. Contact Information: 706- 878-1619. 4/18 Blairsville Cruisers Car Show Downtown Blairsville Historic Town Square. First Friday of the month. 4:00pm. For more information: www. facebook.com/Blairsville.Cruisers. 4/18 Drop Everything and Read-A-Thon! Ellijay, GA. Located at the Gilmer County Public Library. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is free. Help raise money for teen and tween programs by sponsoring a teen patron. For more information please visit www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org. Contact Information: 706635-4528.

Events Deadline for the

Summer Fun!

issue is May 1st April/may 2015

4/23 For the Love of It: Kayaking! Ellijay, GA. Located at the Gilmer County Public Library. From 6 p.m.-7 p.m. Admission is free. Join us as Joseph Gudger, a level 5 ACA kayaking instructor as well as avid outdoorsman, shares some of his knowledge and experiences. In his own words, “the river had desire to flow and I could do the same.” Contact Information: 706635-4528.

5/1 Friday Night Live! Super Hero Night Woodstock, GA. Time to celebrate all things Super Hero related in downtown Woodstock. Be it Superman, Batman, or the Avengers. This night is guaranteed to be Super Fun. Enjoy the many restaurants and stores that the area has to offer as the Downtown Merchants stay open late, www.whatsupwoodstock.com

4/24 Easter EggsSpress Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad, Downtown Blue Ridge Depot. Saturday will have two trips. Check schedule for times. Ride the train with the Easter Bunny and hunt for eggs! Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad Ticket Office 706-632-9833 purchase tickets online. Visit www. brscenic.com.

5/2-12/19 The Woodstock Farmers Market The Woodstock Farmers Market returns for its 7th season in May and runs through December. Downtown on Market Street between Mill and Maple Streets adjacent to the Elm Street Arts Village 8:30AM to 12:30pm. Tuesday night markets will also be held along Market Street starting May 5 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM.

4/24-25 Mountain Home Show Blairsville, GA. North GA Technical College, 121 Meeks Avenue, Blairsville. Ideas for your mountain home, exhibits from local businesses and many free giveaways. FREE Admission. Friday: 2pm – 7pm; Saturday: 9am – 5:00pm. For Details: 706-439-6300 or www. mountainhomeshow.com. 4/25 5th Annual Taste & Sound of Woodstock The Park at City Center Historic Downtown Woodstock. Join us for Woodstock’s highly anticipated community event which supports the WHS Band Program and local businesses and restaurants. Come sample delicious food from many of the best restaurants in the area while being entertained by the students of Woodstock High School and other outstanding local musicians! Experience interactive cooking demos offering valuable cooking tips for all appetites. Awards will be given for Best Entrée, Best Dessert, Best Appetizer, Best Decorated Booth. For info Woodstock Convention and Visitors Bureau, Dean’s Store, 8588 Main Street, Woodstock, GA 30188. 770.924.0406 or www.whatsupwoodstock.com 4/25-26 Native American Women’s Drum Feast 2015: Feast of The South Clayton, GA. 1494 Rainey Mountain Road, Clayton, GA. This event will feature Native American Women’s Drum groups from all over USA and Canada. They will have Flute music, great food, storytelling, amore family oriented activities. FREE ADMISSION. Contact: Amy McCallister 706-778-6742.

5/2 U-Pick Strawberries Blue Ridge, GA. Mercier Orchards. Pick your own strawberries. Take a tractor ride with the family! Breathe in the beautiful mountain air and take in the beauty surrounding you in the orchards. U-PICK is subject to weather and availability. Please call to confirm before you make the trip! Toll free 1-800- 361-7731 or customer.service@mercierorchards.com.

5/9 Georgia Chapter of the Trail of Tears Association Meeting The next meeting of the Georgia Chapter of the Trail of Tears Association will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2015 at 10:30 AM on the campus of Dalton State College in Dalton, GA. The speaker will be Dr. John Fowler, Director of the Bandy Heritage Center (BHC)Meetings are free and open to the public. The meeting will be held in Room 105 in the James E. Brown Center on the campus. For info, contact Tony Harris at harris7627@bellsouth. net or at 770-425-2411. 5/22 - 23 Memorial Day Weekend Rodeo Bar W Rodeo Co. Bucking horses, team roping, calf roping, steer wrestling, Cowgirls breakaway roping & barrel racing, bull riding and fun for all ages, brought to you by Bar W Rodeo Co. Location: Cutworm’s Corral, 4637 Downings Creek Rd., Hayesville, NC Date/Time Information: Gates open at 600 PM, Event starts at 8:00 PM each night Tickets at the Gate: Adults - $12, Kids - 5-10 - $6, Under 5 - Free. Contact Information:Bar W. Rodeo Company 706-897-0956.

5/2 Carnival: An Evening in Venice The Gilmer Arts and Heritage Association hosts its annual auction fundraiser. Let your imaginations take you to old Venice to enjoy the history, food, and spirit of the canal city. Let the Magic and Mystique begin! The Gilmer Arts Annual Auction and more. Gilmer Arts, 207 Dalton Street, Ellijay, 30540. For information and tickets visit www.gilmerarts.com. Contact Information: 706-635-5605. 5/9 Garden Club of Ellijay’s Annual Plant Sale Ellijay, GA. Join us to select perennials, herbs, shrubs, container plants for yourself or surprise Mother’s Day gifts. Fun garden raffle items plus our Master Gardeners will answer any plant questions. Saturday, May 9th, 8:30 -12:30 at the Lion’s Club Pavilion located at 1729 S. Main St. (Hwy. 5 south of town), Ellijay, GA 30540. For more info visit www.gardenclubofellijay.com

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5/22, 29, 6/19, 7/24 Dynamic Earth Rollins Planetarium, Young Harris College Campus. 8:30 p.m. Narrated by Liam Neeson, this award-winning show explores the inner workings of the global climate, Earth’s great life support system. With amazing visualizations based on satellite monitoring data and advanced supercomputer simulations, this state-of-the-art production follows a trail of energy that flows from the Sun into the interlocking systems that shape our climate: the atmosphere, oceans and biosphere. Audiences will ride along on swirling ocean and wind currents, dive into the heart of a monster hurricane, come face-to-face with sharks and gigantic whales, and fly into fiery volcanoes! Tickets $5.00 and can be purchased online. For info: www.yhc.edu 5/18 Clay Dotson Open Held at the beautiful Brasstown Valley Resort, the Clay Dotson Open golf tournament benefits student scholarships. This event is held during the spring semester each academic year. More than 90 percent of YHC students receive some form of financial assistance, and all proceeds from the Clay Dotson Open are used toward scholarships

for Young Harris College students. Your generous support of this annual event allows a new generation of students to achieve their academic pursuits and become part of a long legacy. Located in the quiet rolling hills of Young Harris, Georgia, Brasstown Valley Resort is home to a 7,000 yard, championship par-72 links-style golf course that is ranked by Golf Digest as one of the top 10 places to play in the state. For more information about contact Mark Dotson at (706) 379-5355 5/23 GRHF 6th Annual Memorial Day Car Show We’ve had great success with our May car show in the past and hope to build on it even more this year! Registration will open at 8:30 AM. Awards/Trophies will be given to…Top 15, Top Ford, Top GM, Top Mopar, Farthest Traveled, GRHOF Best In Show Door prizes will be given and Burgers and Hot Dogs will be available for purchase. Vendor spaces available. 9am - 3pm. Fees/Admission: $20 Georgia Racing Hall of Fame, 415 Highway 53 West, Dawsonville, GA 30534. 706216-7223

5/23-25 Gauntlet Thunder in the Mountains Spring Rally Copperhead Lodge, Blairsville, GA. Gauntlet Thunder in the Mountains Spring Rally. Vendors, Live Music, Guided Rides, Contests. See full event line up and more information on our Facebook event page - Gauntlet Thunder in the Mountains Rally. 5/28-31 15th Annual US Riders News Reunion Run & 9th Annual Southeast Victory Run Helen Riverside Park, Edelweiss Street. Come out and meet and ride with hundreds of other Motorcycle riders in a threeday event that is packed full with recommended rides, dinners, parties, raffles, bike show, bike games, a poker run and more! Once again, we are running the Southeast Victory Rally in conjunction with the US Rider News Reunion Run, so there will be plenty to see and do! Contact Information: 478237-3761. 5/30 The Blue Ridge Mountain Adventure Race has been a huge success and has drawn people to Fannin County from all over the country. For 2015, race director Jeff Leininger of Florida Extreme Adventures will take

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over management of this epic event. There will be an eight hour event for those new to the sport, as well as the massive 24 hour version that is sure to challenge the most hearty of competitors. Adventure racers have to navigate through the rugged terrain of the Appalachian Mountains through various means of travel including running, cycling, paddling, climbing, and rappelling. Registration and information: www.blueridgeadventurerace.com Saturdays thru Summer Downtown Farmers Market Blue Ridge City Park. Starting in May 8:00am to 1:00 pm Across from Fannin County Courthouse. Locally grown produce and handmade crafts, baked goods, plants and more. Contact Information: 706-258-4552. 5/30 Three Rivers Run Ellijay, GA. 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Located at the Boys and Girls Club 1559 South Main Street (Civic Center) Ellijay, GA. The Third Annual THREE RIVERS RUN to support the Boys & Girls Club of Gilmer County will offer a 1 mile Fun Run (starting at 8:30am) and 5K (starting at 9am). Adults - $20 if received by 5/22 ($25 day of race) Student - $15 if received by 5/22 ($25 day of race)1

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AC LIVING CALENDAR Mile Fun Run Registration - $10Shirts are guaranteed to all pre-registered runners AND WALKERS. Contact Information: 770-380-6147. 5/30 John C. Campbell Folk School Annual Gala & Benefit Auction An exciting evening of lively entertainment, delicious food and traditional craft and fine art. 5:00 - 8:00 PM. $25 includes food and drink, proceeds will benefit the Folk School’s craft programs. John C Campbell Folk School One Folk School - Brasstown, NC. 828-837-2775 or www.folkschool.org

KIDS OF ALL AGES Ongoing Discount Day at the North Georgia Zoo & Petting Farm Cleveland, GA. Looking for a fun and educational activity for the kids at a cost you can afford? Join us most 2nd Tuesdays of the month for a Discounted Day for you and the kids here at the Zoo! Not just for Moms! Grandparents, Dads, guardians and friends are welcome to come! Petting Zoo & Hay Ride are $6 - Petting Zoo, Hay Ride & Wildlife Walk are $15. Phone: 706-348-7279 - Address: North Georgia Zoo and Farm, 2912 Paradise Valley Rd, Cleveland, GA. 4/18 Adam Booth - Stories of Appalachia Adam Booth is a nationally renowned singer of songs and teller of tales – especially those of Appalachia where he was born and raised.He will share his expertise on the dulcimer during his library performance, as well as weaving stories. He has also appeared in major conferences and festivals across the country – including being featured as a Teller-in-Residence at the International Storytelling Center in Jonesborough, TN. His presentations include a unique blend of story, education, and traditional music. 11am. FREE. Chestatee Regional Library System, Serving Dawson and Lumpkin Counties 342 Allen Street, Dawsonville, GA 30534. 706-344-3690 www.chestateelibrary.org 5/1 Wool Fest & Farm Day North Georgia Petting Zoo Cleveland, GA. It’s sheep shearing time! Come join us and learn all about sheep shearing, spinning, and get free samples of wool! Check out Interactive Farm Demonstrations. Learn how to spin, time hooves, train, and more! Rain Day: Second weekend in May. From 10am5pm. Visit www.myfavoritezoo.com. April/may 2015

MUSIC NIghtly Bell Music from the Courthouse Tower. Blairsville, GA. Town Square, Blairsville, GA. While in downtown Blairsville, stop and listen to the beautiful bell music from the courthouse tower. Every evening from 7:00 to 7:30pm. Music varies by season. For more information visit www.unioncountyhistory.org or call 706. 745. 5493. On Going Blue Ridge Brewery Live Music. Downtown Blue Ridge. 6-9pm Thursday, Friday & Saturday Evenings Live Music. Please call 706-632-6611 or check Facebook or the website: www.blueridgebrewery.com for updates or changes. Friday Night Concerts Historic County Courthouse on the Square Blairsville, GA. There is no admission charge; the local musicians donate their time and talents. Voluntary contributions to the maintenance fund are always welcomed and appreciated. For more information visit www.unioncountyhistory.org. Contact Information: 706-745-5493. Saturdays LIve Music at Cartecay VIneyards Cartecay Vineyards presents Live Music on the Chimney Patio or Nealy Barn Loft if there’s bad weather. $10 includes Live Music, 5 Wine Tastings and a Cartecay Vineyards Logo Wine Glass. 1:30pm – 5:30pm. Cartecay Vineyards, 5704 Clear Creek Road, Ellijay, GA 30536, 706-698-9463 (WINE) or visit www.cartecayvinyrads. com for more info. Saturday Nights Live at the Martyn House Downtown Downton Historic Ellijay. Offering different genres of music every Saturday Night including bluegrass, jazz, folk, pop, classical, avant-garde, blues, country, hip hop, and even some stand-up comedy in the mix. Performances are from 7-9 PM be sure to check out our event calendar for upcoming concerts. We offer a small plate menu with every concert. We are BYOB with a $5 corking fee for each bottle of wine or 6-pack. Tickets are from $5-$20 and can be purchased in advance at The Martyn House Espresso Bar In Towne or on line at, reservations are highly recommended. For information contact The Martyn House in Towne, 131 North Main St Ellijay, GA 30450. Or 706-635-5565.

4/10 Into the Woods by Steven Sondheim The University Music Theatre, Spring Performance. Music majors in Reinhardt University’s Music Theatre program undergo intensive training in acting, singing, and dancing in preparation for professional careers. Date of Event: 04/10/2015 at 7:30 PM Cost: All Seats - $12.50. The Falany Performing Arts Center. 770-720-9167 or boxoffice@reinhardt.edu 4/10 - 11 Songs for a New World Using a score crafted from popular modern music, this revue-style show transports the audience from the deck of a 1492 Spanish sailing ship to a ledge 57 stories above Fifth Avenue. Enjoy a collection of stories about how we survive in a new set of circumstances even against seemingly overwhelming odds.Saturday, April 11, 7 p.m.; Sunday, April 12, 2 p.m. Glenn Auditorium, Young Harris College, 1 College Street, Young Harris, GA 30582 (800) 241-3754 4/14 Young Harris College Music Teachers National Association Piano Concert Talented students perform works for piano duos, duets, trios, and quartets with musical selections from American, French, and Austrian composers from the Classical Period through the 21st century. Contributions for all performances are accepted to benefit YHC’s student chapter of the Music Teachers National Association. 7 p.mGlenn Auditorium, Young Harris College, 1 College Street, Young Harris, GA 30582 (800) 241-3754 4/14 Reinhardt University Jazz Ensemble The Jazz Ensemble, under the direction of Rob Opitz, has quickly built its reputation as an exciting and entertaining band. The group utilizes the instrumentation of the classic big bands with 5 saxophones, 4 trumpets, 4 trombones, piano, guitar, bass, drums, and vocalists. Always a hit as they present the best of the jazz classics. 7:30 PM. All Seats - $12.50. The Falany Performing Arts Center: 770-720-9167 or boxoffice@reinhardt.edu 4/17 & 24 Cosmic Concert: Pink Floyd’s The Wall. Rollins Planetarium, Young Harris College Campus. Pink Floyd’s 1979 concept album The Wall was performed live with elaborate theatrical effects and even adapted into a feature

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film. Now it takes on a whole new look under the dome, as this gripping and spellbinding musical tale is coupled with mesmerizing laser art. The Wall is beautiful, haunting, powerful and thought provoking. Audiences will be transported on a captivating and timeless journey during one of the most popular laser shows ever produced. Tickets $5.00 and can be purchased online. For info: www.yhc.edu. Contact Information: 706-379-5195. 5/2 Live Music is Better Presents: Gretchen Peters in Concert Blue Ridge, GA. Grammy nominated, Nashville singer-songwriter and writer of CMA Song of the Year ‘Independence Day’. Gretchen is a singer-songwriter in the folk/country genre. Performance starts at 7:30pm. Blue Ridge Community Theater. 706-632-9223 5/5 Pops on the Plaza The Community Band presents its highly anticipated annual outdoor spring concert. The community is invited to gather lawn chairs and blankets and make plans to enjoy a memorable evening of familiar musical favorites. 7:00PM. College Street, Young Harris, approximately 30 minutes on Hwy 515, For more information please visit www. yhc.edu. Contact Information: 706379-5182. 5/7- thru Summer Pickin’ in the Park Returns! McCaysville, GA. Live and authentic music jams and pickin’ on the banks of the Toccoa River at the Horseshoe Bend Park in McCaysville. Bring your www.aclivingmagazine.com

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whole familiy, your blankets, chairts and evening picnic! In Horseshoe Bend Park 6:00PM to dusk. Hwy 5 (Blue Ridge Highway) north till it ends, then right on Hwy 60 and then right on River Road, follow to the park entrance on your right. Free Admission. The park is wheelchair accessible. Fannin County Parks and Recreation. Contact Information: 706-632-7696. 5/9 The Return Historic Holly Theater, Dahlonega.The Return got its start back in 1995 when four young friends got together to play their favorite Beatles songs just for the fun of it. They wanted to recreate the early sixties Beatles concert experience from the tiniest detail (John Lennon’s on-stage gum-chewing) to the biggest, most expensive details (using exact replicas of the instruments and gear the Beatles used). While they were learning to comb their moptops just right and finding the right black suits to wear, they learned each song note for note, rhythm for rhythm— getting the signature moves and ‘looks’ of the Fab Four down pat--just for you! Tickets: $20 & $27. Visit www.hollytheater.com or call (706) 864-3759. 5/23 Satisfaction Historic Holly Theater, Dahlonega. Satisfaction is the international touring tribute show dedicated to the “World’s Greatest Rock & Roll Band.” This glamorous show has been in production and touring since 2001 with over 2000 performance dates to its credit. This highly acclaimed production showcases the most authentic cast and costuming audiences have ever witnessed. The likes of Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and supporting cast bring a colorful performance to over 50 years of classic hits. Featured in dozens of national newspapers, magazines, and television ads as the greatest show ever honoring the Rolling Stones legacy. Tickets: $20 & $27. Visit www.hollytheater.com or call (706) 864-3759.

THEATER 4/9 - 4/26 The Moving of Lilla Barton The forces of North & South, Old & New plus Right & Wrong collide in this humorous and touching tale of a Small town Alabama Episcopal Church’s dilemma over vacating the Rectory for the new Preacher. Show times Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., Sundays at 2:00 p.m. Blue Ridge Community Theater, 2591 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA 706-632-9223

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4/10 - 4/26 SYLVIA, by A.R. Gurney Tater Patch Players in Jasper, GA presents: Lovers of dogs, of comedy and of the foibles of fellow humans will find an evening of delight with Sylvia and her people. Sundyas at 2PM and the rest are at 7:30 PM. Tickets are $15 for adults and $14 for seniors and students. Advance tickets may be bought online www.taterpatchplayers.org or at the box office beginning one hour before each performance. 4/17-5/33 Smoke on the Mountain Historic Holly Theater Dahlonega. Set in the 1930s, this hysterical musical tale introduces the singing Sanders family, who perform their traditional and bluegrass gospel songs for the members of the Mount Pleasant Baptist Church in Mount Pleasant, NC. Pastor Oglethorpe welcomes the family to the church, where their individual stories and beliefs are shared during the concert. The audience serves as the members of the congregation.Show times Friday and Saturday shows at 8pm. Sunday Matinee at 2pm Adults $20.00, Children & Students $12.00 Visit www. hollytheater.com or call (706) 8643759. 4/21- 4/25 Good Boys and True Dobbs Theater, Young Harris College. At an all-boys prep school, traditions are scrutinized when a scandalous sex tape brings ugly truths into focus, calling into question the values of popularity, status and privilege. Recommended for mature audiences only. “Pay What You Can” Preview - Tuesday, April 21, 7 p.m.; Wednesday-Saturday, April 2225, 7 p.m.; Saturday April 25, 2 p.m. 5/14-5/31 Breakfast with Les and Bess, a comedy by Lee Kalchaim. Les and Bess are a married couple who co-host a radio talk show in New York City before the turmoil of the sixties stirred the country out of its complacency. Les and Bess are about to have their talk show canceled because of lack of interest. Since their marriage is based on their show, they may have to cancel their marriage as well.Show times Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., Sundays at 2:00 p.m. Blue Ridge Community Theater, 2591 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA 706-632-9223 www. blueridgecommunitytheater.com

WINE TASTINGS Fridays Chocolatasm! The Vine Wine Bar and Bistro in Blue Ridge and Chocolatasm are proud to present a special wine and chocolate pairing Friday evenings at 6pm (reservations only). Reservations required. Call 706-946-8463 or email your RSVP to Leannhmartin@gmail.com by the Thursday before the date to reserve your place. There will also be regular wine tastings every day with no reservation required. www.thevineofblueridge.com Saturdays LIve Music at Cartecay VIneyards Cartecay Vineyards presents Live Music on the Chimney Patio or Nealy Barn Loft if there’s bad weather. $10 includes Live Music, 5 Wine Tastings and a Cartecay Vineyards Logo Wine Glass. 1:30pm – 5:30pm. Cartecay Vineyards, 5704 Clear Creek Road, Ellijay, GA 30536, 706-698-9463 (WINE) or visit www.cartecayvinyrads. com for more info. Ongoing Soup Kitchen Saturdays At Crane Creek Vineyards. Come and enjoy soup or sandwiches along with a glass of wine while looking out over our beautiful vineyards on the deck. Every Saturday from 11:00AM -5:00 PM. www.cranecreekvineyards or (706) 379-1236 Ongoing Soup Saturdays At Hightower Creek Vineyards. Join us every Saturday for a different homemade complimentary soup with the purchase of a tasting or glass of wine! Saturdays from January through March from 12pm-5pm. 7150 Canaan Drive Hiawassee, GA 30546. Contact Information: 706896-8963 or www.hightowercreekvineyards.com Ongoing Live Music & Tastings At Engelheim Vineyards Vineyards.Saturdaysb at 1pm.127 Lakeview Road Ellijay, GA 30540. 706635-WINE (9463), info@ engelheim.com or www. engleheim.com

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4/1 thru Summer Wine Cave Tour and Tastings Cleveland, GA. Every Saturday and Sunday, Yonah Mountain Vineyards. .Join us for an intimate walking tour of our winery and the only known wine caves in Georgia. This 90-minute experience starts with a tasting of three barrel samples of unreleased wines and finishes with six additional pours of our current releases. Before you leave, make sure to take home your Yonah Mountain Vineyards etched wine glass. $30 per person. Advance Reservations and Payment Required. Saturdays – 12:00noon and 1:30pm; Sundays – 1:30pm or by appointment. www.whitecountychamber.org/fm/ events/detail/id/412/. 5/2 Awake The Grapes Awake the Grapes! Be a part of Serenberry Vineyards’ spring celebration of nature’s annual ritual of awakening the vines from their winter slumber. The cuttings from our cold weather pruning will fuel the bonfire. Tickets will be available at the event for $20. Event includes souvenir wine glass, wine tastings, live music and more! For details: 706-623-8463 or visit www. serenberryvineyards.com

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a cherokee legend History Editor Leslie Barker Thomas Reveals the Legend Behind Georgia’s State Flower – the Cherokee Rose

When gold was found in Georgia, the government forgot its treaties and drove the Cherokees westward to Indian Territory of Arkansas and later Oklahoma. Approximately one-fourth of the Cherokees died on the journey. The trail west started the end of May to mid-June 1838 and the mothers were grieving and crying so much because they were unable to help their children survive the journey. The legend is that many of the real Cherokee people died from the hardship they endured from the time of the white man dishonoring their treaties to the weeks they endured in the camps in Tennessee waiting to travel to the new lands. So one night after they had made camp along the Trail of Tears, the old men sitting around the dying campfire called up to the Great One in Ga lu na ti (heaven) to help the people in their trouble. The Great One said, “Yes, I have seen the sorrows of the women and I can help them to keep their strength to help the children. Tell the women in the morning to look back where their tears have fallen to the ground. I will cause to grow a plant. I’ll make the plant grow so fast at first that by afternoon they’ll see a white rose, a beautiful blossom with five petals. In the center of the rose, I will put the gold to remind them of the gold which the white man wanted when his greed drove the Cherokee from their ancestral home.” The Great One said that the green leaves would have seven leaflets, one for each of the seven clans of the Cherokee. It will have thorns on every stem to protect it from anything that tries to move it away. The next morning the old men told the women to look back for the sign from the Great One. They watched as a blossom formed, so beautiful they forgot to weep and they felt beautiful and strong. By the afternoon they saw many white 46

blossoms as far as they could see. The women began to think about their strength given them to bring up their children as the new Cherokee Nation. This symbol exists for the pain and suffering of the “Trail Where They Cried” in the Cherokee language is known as nu na hi du na tlo hi lu i. The Cherokee Rose continues to grow along the routes of the Trail of Tears all the way into eastern Oklahoma today.

Cherokee Rose Rosacea laevigata Michx.

Is a vigorous evergreen climbing shrub with large prickles, attractive, glossy, trifoliate dark green glabrous leaves and solitary, flat, single, scented white flowers in summer followed by bristly, orange-red hips. The Cherokee Rose climbs over other shrubs and small trees to heights of up to16–33 feet. Leaves are 1-4 inches long, and the flowers are about 3–4 inches in diameter. The species– native to China, Taiwan, Laos and Vietnam– was introduced to the southeastern United States in about 1780, where it soon became naturalized, and gained its common name of ‘Cherokee Rose.’ Used mostly for forming hedges because of its quickness of growth, facility of culture, strength, durability, and beauty.

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At the urging of the Federation of Women’s Clubs, the Cherokee rose became Georgia’s state flower on August 18, 1916. The Georgia General Assembly adopted Joint Resolution number 42 stating that Georgia had selected the Cherokee Rose because many states had official state flowers that were “indigenous to the soil of the State. The resolution referred to the Cherokees as “aborigines” in the text of the document that makes the camellia rose the Georgia floral emblem. It also made the mistake of stating that the Cherokee rose was an indigenous plant that grew in every county. ACLM Leslie Barker Thomas is a resident of Ellijay and the President of the Gilmer County Historical Society, President, Georgia Chapter Trail of Tears Association and Communication Chair CartecayUMC. Gilmer County Historical Society Historic Tabor House & Civil War Museum 138 Spring Street, Ellijay, Georgia 30540 706. 276. 1861. Open Thurs–Sat 10am to 2pm www.gilmercountyhistoricalsociety.org/ “When history is erased, people’s moral values are also erased.” –Ma Jian

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