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Roughin' It! Lake side AT THE
Country Vol. 9 Issue 2 APR/maY 2013
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COWBOY LODGE
spend a stunning vacation lake side at the EXCLUSIVE cowboy lodge Get your garden on with these New & innovative ideas Farm to Table61 main Serves it up Fresh Spring Festivals galore! Get out & Enjoy 'em all
Spring is coming soon ... and so are dust, dirt and pollen Make your porch a true three-season living space This coming spring, enclose an existing screened porch or covered outdoor area for much less than you would expect and with no construction muss and fuss. Installed in a day or two, our made-to-order panels transform a little-used area into an enjoyable living space. PGT® Eze-Breeze® Sliding Panels are made of vinyl which has the transparency of glass without the weight, cost and fragility. They are easy to clean, tough and durable and come in clear, bronze or gray to reduce the sun’s glare. Available in both horizontal and vertical lightweight sliding panels, they can be adjusted for as much ventilation as desired. They can also be removed and stored leaving existing screens in place. Don’t let summer heat and bugs or winter’s breezes stand between you and more living area in your home. Contact us today for more information on adding a lowcost and trouble-free addition to your home. Vertical sliding panels tilt out for easy cleaning.
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MAKE ACE IN ELLIJAY THE PLACE FOR YOUR HOME SHOPPING! • Building Supplies • Hardware • Garden Center • Lumber • Furniture & Appliances • Outdoor/Hunting Clothing • Carhartt Clothing • Women’s & Children’s Clothing • Men’s & Women’s Boots
305 SOUTH MAIN STREET • ELLIJAY GA 30540 April/May 2013
Appalachian Country
706. 635. 2236 www.acmagazine.org
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PUBLISHER EDITOR IN CHIEF Alice Sexton
CELEBRATE SPRING WITH
Cartecay Vineyards
EDITOR AT LARGE Jodi Williams OUTDOOR ADVENTURE EDITOR Greg Dunn traingindunnright@gmail.com
AWAKING OF THE VINES April 6 • 11 am to 6 pm will have John Sosebee performing and vendors. Tickets are $20.00 and include 7 wine samples and logo wine glass and live music.
EVENTS EDITOR Ann Merry ADVERTISING SALES Lynn Paterson
APRIL & MAY LIVE MUSIC MOUNTAIN WINE TOUR April 20 • Matthew Croxton & Craig McGriff 12:30 - 4:30 April 27 • Josh Gilbert May 4 • Barefoot Boone May 11 • The Over Yonder Boys May 25 • Tim McNary
April 12 -14 Mountain Wine Country Tour, 9 wineries participating. Tickets are $20.00. Cartecay Vineyards will have light fare each day and Greg Erwin will be performing on Saturday, April 13th.
LAYOUT/DESIGN Blue Ridge Media Group CONTRIBUTORS Alair Photography, Bob Colley Photography, Ande Cook, Val Doll, Greg Dunn, Kathe Hall, Jean Lomax, Betty Kossick, Robbie Muschamp, Joe, Dawn, Victoria & Bethany Placher, Jenna Schreiber, Penney Trentman, Jodi Williams ADVERTISING INQUIRIES AC Magazine 706. 492. 5070
SPRING HOURS
Thursday through Monday 11am – 6pm Sunday 12:30 – 5:30
Appalachian Country Magazine PO Box 1250 Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706. 492. 5070 hello@blueridgemediagroup.com www.acmagazine.org
Hours are subject to change due to season, please call ahead or visit our website. DIRECTIONS
PLEASE RECYCLE
From 515, Exit onto hwy 52 East. Travel approximately 8 miles to Clear Creek Road on right, Go 1.0 miles to Tasting Barn on left.
706. 698. 9463 (WINE) CartecayVineyards.com 5704 Clear Creek Road Ellijay, GA 30536 4
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Appalachian Country Magazine is published six times a year. All rights reserved under International and PanAmerican copyright conventions. Reproduction of this work in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Appalachian Country 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 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 $18 per year for six issues. For renewals, new subscriptions, or any other correspondence, write to PO Box 1250 Blue Ridge, GA 30513.
Appalachian Country
April/May 2013
WELCOME TO AC MAGAZINE Spring is finally here AND I’ve been busy making new friends “Just drive your car across the field, the fishing cabin is right over there,” Ann said. I should have known better, another boondoggle. Five minutes later we were stuck with no hope of driving out. This was my second go-round with the mud– mud 2, Alice 0. Two weeks ago I slid off my steep (now mud, was dirt) driveway during one of the many drenching downpours and had to get a wrecker to pull me out. An amazing feat handled expertly by Bear’s Garage & Towing in Ellijay. Whew. Being stuck out in the middle of nowhere, with three goats and two dogs staring at us was a little different though. A short hike up the road to the nearest house brought us Mr. Johnny and his giant 4x4 truck. Mr. Johnny promptly got stuck
trying to pull us out and that surely didn’t make him happy. Along comes Mr. Ken, still no luck getting unstuck, although he was handy with his cell phone. Another neighbor and his son stop by to watch the mayhem. Mr. Payne arrives next with his tow truck, so now we have a full on, mudflinging party! Luckily Mr. Payne is able to get Mr. Johnny’s truck free, with Ann and I cheering him on. Mr. Johnny finally saves the day and pulls me out of the bog with a big tractor, more hootin’ & hollerin’
from the two of us. It took over two hours, seven people, three trucks, one tow truck and one tractor– what a great way to make new friends! I think I’ll be busy baking cakes this week. There’s lots of cool stuff in this issue. The Cowboy Lodge is just amazing, get your creative juices jumpin’ with our gardening ideas, check out the haps with Ande’s chickens, 61 Main in Jasper dishes up the recipes– and get your tickets early for Taste of Blue Ridge. There's 4 pages of Festivals and Events– and you can find the entire magaine on our web site: www.acmagazine.org Our next issue– June, July & August– will be jam-packed with Summer Fun, so don't miss it. Catch ya’ later, and try to stay out of the mud!
An amazing family adventure on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is only a short drive away. It all starts at the historic depot in downtown Blue Ridge, Georgia. The train winds alongside the beautiful Toccoa River on a four hour round trip with a stop in the twin border towns of McCaysville, GA and Copperhill, TN.
Arrange a trip at brscenic.com or 1-877-413-TRAIN 241 DepoT STReeT • Blue RIDge, gA 30513 >> 1-877-413-8724 • 1-706-632-8724
April/May 2013
Appalachian Country
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Restaurant Spotlight, Charlie's! Classic Homemade Italian Cuisine
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Mountain Bike Nirvana Adventure Editor Greg Dunn Reveals His Favorites
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Spring Gardening Tips From the Experts Learn Everything from Garden Basics to the Hottest Trends
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Cluck, Cluck, Cluck Get the Down Low on the Latest Backyard Craze
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The Cowboy Lodge Spend Your Dream Vacation on Lake Blue Ridge
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Farm to Table 61 Main in Downtown Jasper Serves Up Delicious Local Cuisine
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Humane Society of Blue Ridge Promoting Respect for All Living Things
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VanGoghs Hideaway Where the Magic Begins!
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Spring Festivals in NGA There's Something Fun for Everyone
Appalachian I N S I D E
Roughin' It! LAKE SIDE AT THE
COUNTRY VOL. 9 ISSUE 2 APR/MAY 2013
www.acmagazine.org
ON THE COVER
COWBOY LODGE
SPEND A STUNNING VACATION LAKE SIDE AT THE EXCLUSIVE COWBOY LODGE GET YOUR GARDEN ON WITH THESE NEW & INNOVATIVE IDEAS FARM TO TABLE61 MAIN SERVES IT UP FRESH SPRING FESTIVALS GALORE! GET OUT & ENJOY 'EM ALL
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Joe, Victoria, Dawn and Bethany Placher spend a summer's eve lake side at the Cowboy Lodge in Blue Ridge. Photo: Bob Colley Photography.
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Appalachian Country
April/May 2013
Restaurant Spotlight
Charlie's Italian Restaurant
Charlie's Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria has a tradition of homemade family cooking serving up the best Italian cuisine in north Georgia. With over 45 years of experience, owners Charlie and Collette Perrone are dedicated to providing high quality, fresh ingredients in each dish. Everything from their signature family recipes– such as Chicken Parmigiano, Seared Atlantic Salmon and Char-Broiled Lamb Chops– to salads and sandwiches are made fresh and to order. Another favorite among their loyal clientele is Charlie’s all vegetarian Minestrone soup. No MSG, fresh local ingredients and no chicken stock make this one of the best items on the menu for those who are health conscious. Don’t see exactly what you want on the menu? Just ask and they will make every effort to accommodate your request. Have dietary restrictions? Let your server know– no salt, no butter? No problem! Open 7 days a week, Charlie’s is local all the way and very dedicated to the surrounding community and businesses. They provide large orders to go for lunch or dinner. And a private banquet room that seats 30 is available for corporate meals or rehearsal dinners. Don't miss your chance to eat authentic Italian food in a cozy, family-like setting at Charlie's Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria! For more information, visit www.dineatcharlies.com or call 706. 635. 2205. AC
April/May 2013
Appalachian Country
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k AC COMMUNITY Improving Our Community
Four Paws at a Time
WORDS: Humane Society of Blue Ridge PHOTOS: HSBR, Alair Photography
HSBR Mission The Humane Society of Blue Ridge (HSBR) is a non-profit group comprised of wonderful volunteers who strive tirelessly to uphold the organization’s mission: To promote respect for all living things. To provide for the welfare of abandoned, injured or mistreated animals, and to find them loving, permanent homes. We will work to increase the awareness of animal issues through public education, striving to end euthanasia of healthy, adoptable animals and promote and offer affordable spay and neutering HSBR History The HSBR, founded by Past President Anne Williamson and a small group of avid animal supporters in 2006, developed their mission, formed a plan and gained non-profit 501 C-3 status only one year later. Anne started the organization because of a need she saw in the area. She wanted to help abandoned pets and provide aid to the people who loved their pets but couldn’t afford to 8
keep them. The HSBR quickly added a thrift store to help raise money and made presentations to the veterinarians for help. Ocoee Animal Hospital was tremendous with helping the HSBR in the beginning, and still are big supporters as is Cohutta Animal Clinic and Copper Basin Animal Clinic. HSBR has grown from 7 board members and a couple of volunteers to 60 + volunteers, a much larger thrift store, and a thriving rescue group serving Fannin County. The Humane Society of Blue Ridge is independent of the Humane Society of the United States and any other national organization. All monies raised by the HSBR benefit Blue Ridge, Fannin County and the animals we serve in the local area.
Community Dog Park where our residents can bring their animals to run and play freely. The first phase of the plan was to complete the off leash dog park, which opened in March 2013. There are separate areas for small and large dogs, so bring your pups out for some communal fun! We currently have a temporary building at our new facility called The Haven. The Haven is information central for everything concerning the HSBR. It will be the office for our Animal Team and the distribution center for needy family dog/cat food. Here you will also find all the info you need on our programs and volunteer opportunities. The Haven will also serve as a short-term facility for intake of animals awaiting foster homes.
HSBR News In 2012 the HSBR purchased 16 acres of land on Mineral Spring Road in Fannin County. This is the future home of our Adoption and Education Center, Memorial Gardens, Agility Training Course and an Off Leash
HSBR Animal Team The HSBR Animal Team manager is Karen Kelly and she oversees a team of loyal and dedicated volunteers that give numerous hours of their time to care for innocent and helpless animals! These volunteers do everything from
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Appalachian Country
April/May 2013
Left: HSBR– providing for the welfare of many abandoned, injured or mistreated animals. Above Right: The Monday Thrift Store happy volunteers. Above & Below Right: Finding loving forever homes– kids and pets– everyone wins!
grooming to vet visits to transporting food and animals… you name it. Karen and her volunteers adopted out over 200 animals in 2012 alone thru local adoption events, trips to PetSmart, Petco and through our HSBR office,. S.N.I.P. Spay Neuter Incentive Program Since it’s inception in 2011, HSBR’s low-cost spay-neuter program, S.N.I.P (Spay Neuter Incentive Program) has provided assistance to over 500 companion animal owners in Fannin County. In 2012 over 300 animal owners were served and so far in 2013, 75 animal owners have taken advantage of S.N.I.P. The HSBR also supports SPARE, a local program to help spay/ neuter feral cats and then return them to the wild. Our local veterinarians offer discounted services for our S.N.I.P. program which allows us to provide assistance for spay/neutering. Dog/Cat Food for Needy Families The HSBR also provides cat and dog April/May 2013
food (and cat litter too) to those families who can’t afford to buy it themselves. We work closely with PetSmart and Petco to get bags of food that someone has returned. The bags, which the store cannot resell, are usually ‘slightly open’ and we don’t mind that a ‘slightly open’ bag will go to one of our furry friends in the Blue Ridge area instead of the trash! Our volunteers donate their time to transport the food from Metro Atlanta area and deliver it to our HSBR facility. The Animal team then distributes the food once a month to families who qualify for the free pet food. The HSBR often uses some of its own funds to purchase litter and cat food that is also donated to pet owners in need. Foster Families The HSBR is primarily a foster-based rescue organization and will continue to be so even once our building is completed. Socializing the animals through fostering makes every pet more adoptable. The ideal foster candidate is a loving, caring person or family that will provide a friendly home until a Appalachian Country
permanent/forever home can be found. We desperately need foster families and are constantly seeking new volunteers to help in all areas of the HSBR. If you are considering fostering, note that the HSBR provides all food and medical care for animals in foster homes. A fostering request form is available on our web site. Adoptions The Humane Society of Blue Ridge (HSBR) takes animal adoptions very seriously. We will only place animals with responsible, caring people who are concerned with the well-being of their pet. The HSBR has been very successful in finding “forever homes” for many helpless and abandoned animals here in our area. Since the HSBR was founded in 2006, we have adopted out over 1000 animals to loving, caring homes. Adoption applications are available on our web site and you can search our available pets at petfinder.com, just type in Blue Ridge, GA 30513 to go the Humane Society of Blue Ridge pages. www.acmagazine.org
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Appalachian Country
April/May 2013
AC COMMUNITY
2013 Taste of Blue Ridge
Top: Ribbon cutting for the new Off Leash Dog Park. Above: This is what it's all about!
Monetary Donations Your monetary donations go a long way to helping homeless cats and dogs. Your contribution helps us find loving homes for countless animals, as well as provide shelter and medical care for our “guests.” Your gift directly offsets the cost of animal care. > $1000 provides complete medical care for 10 cats or dogs (spay/neuter, microchip, vaccinations) > $400 provides complete care for one dog or cat > $100 Provides complete medical care for one dog or cat (spay/neuter, microchip, vaccinations) > $50 Pays for 100 pounds of high quality dog food > $25 Pays for 150 pounds of kitty litter HSBR Thrift Store Our Humane Society Thrift Store is our main source of income for the Humane Society. The Thrift Store is primarily run and operated by loyal volunteers that give of their time and December/January April/May 2013 2012-13
energy 6 days a week to sort, price and display the items that are so generously donated to us. We have between 30 and 35 volunteers that work an average of 3-6 hours a week at the HSBR Thrift Store. Without our Volunteers, and the wonderful donations we receive, we would not exist as the Humane Society of Blue Ridge. We accept ‘gently used’ clothing, furniture, accessories, jewelry, kitchen items, bedding, linens, and small appliances, generally anything that is still in good condition and can be resold. Your generous donations will help us give the animals in our care the attention they deserve to help them find their “forever homes”, and will also help us build our “dream home shelter” for our four legged friends! AC HSBR Thrift Store: 1244 Windy Ridge Road (Corner of Windy Ridge Road and East First Street) Blue Ridge, GA 30513 Hours are Mon - Fri 10am - 4pm; Sat 10am - 3pm. 706-632-5224 The Haven & Off Leash Dog Park are located at 171 Mineral Spring Road, off of Aska Rd. To get there, just pass the ACE Hardware, take a right on Aska and then right on Mineral Spring and look for our NEW SIGN on the left!!! Please call 706-632-4357 or visit our website at humanesocietyofblueridge.org if you would like more information!
Appalachian Country Appalachian Country
This is our Sixth Annual Taste of Blue Ridge (TOBR), and is the major fund-raiser for the Humane Society of Blue Ridge. We have raised over $100,000.00 in the past 5 years through Taste of Blue Ridge. The majority of these funds have been earmarked for our “Building Fund” to one-day construct a permanent Adoption and Education Center for the Blue Ridge Community. Our local restaurants, chefs, caterers, beer and wine vendors have all championed our cause and have given so generously of their time, culinary talents, and specialty dishes to make TOBR a very popular event and the “hottest ticket in town”! We've sold out the past 3 years with over 550 people in attendance and expect to do so again this year. All proceeds from Taste of Blue Ridge benefit the Humane Society and the event itself is run by HSBR Volunteers, the Board of Directors and loyal animal supporters. TOBR is a fun-filled event that consists of awesome silent and live auctions with donations from local businesses, artists, jewelry designers, wood-carvers, photographers, and more. We also have live entertainment, dancing and most importantly…tastings of the finest food, wine and beer offered by our local area vendors.
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EPIC CLIMBS TECHNICAL DESCENTS
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Outdoor Adventure Editor Greg Dunn Reveals His Favorite Mountain Biking Trails in NGA
My backyard is the Chattahoochee National Forest where there are nearly 1400 square miles of forest containing all types of recreational opportunities. Over the past three years, I’ve spent as much time as possible trying to find the best spots for mountain biking, hiking, paddling and fishing. In this issue, I’d like to share what I consider to be the best mountain biking rides and “refueling” spots in the area. We live a mile and a half from the trailhead so it only seems fitting that I begin by talking about the Aska area trail system. These trails, which include sections of the Benton McKaye Trail, were originally built for hiking but now have sections open to mountain biking. If you like tight, technical singletrack like I do, then you’ll love these trails. A combination of epic climbs and descents make this trail system aerobically and technically advanced, so bring your skills and your lungs because you’ll need them. If you’re looking for something a bit less challenging but just as fun, I recommend the Long Branch and Turkey Farm Loops. Made from old logging roads and forest service roads, these loops are more friendly towards beginners but are still challenging enough to entertain the more seasoned rider. The Aska Trails are accessible from three different trailheads, which include Deep Gap on Aska Road, Stanley Gap on Stanley Creek Road, and Long Branch on Shady Falls Road. Possibly the most popular trail system of the region, Bear Creek and Pinhoti Trails, are nothing short of “epic.” In fact, IMBA (International Mountain Bicycling Association) recently added the Pinhoti trail to the list of Epic Trails in the United States. Although Bear Creek trail is a loop, I typically like to combine sections of the Pinhoti, some forest service roads, and finish with a technical descent down Bear Creek to the Gates Chapel Road where I usually park. The Pinhoti Trail system is broken up into sections 1-5 that link together different county and forest service roads, meaning
FOR GUIDED MOUNTAIN BIKE TOURS & TAKING YOUR TRAINING TO THE NEXT LEVEL CONTACT GREG VIA EMAIL trainingdunnright@gmail.com 12
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you can create your own routes according to experience and time. These trails do require some fitness since you will encounter several climbs that are well over a couple miles in length. Be sure to check out the Gennett Poplar , which is about a half mile up Bear Creek trail from the lower parking lot. It is the largest Poplar tree in North America and is a representation of what the forest looked like before it was logged in the early 1900’s. The last trail system I would like to mention is the Tanasi System in the Cherokee National Forest. It’s about 30 minutes north of Blue Ridge, and a few miles northwest of Copper Hill, TN. Park at the Ocoee Whitewater Center, ask for a free trail map and take off for nearly 40 miles of bike specific single and double track. The system is open to hiking but when these trails were built, mountain biking was the emphasis. Not as aerobically challenging as Bear Creek, Pinhoti’s or Aska, the Tanasi System trails are just as fun. Once your legs and lungs have had enough, you’ll find plenty of options to refuel. One of my favorite spots, since I live so close, is Blue Ridge Brewery in Historic Downtown Blue Ridge. Not only do they brew their own beer, they also have a great rotating selection of other nano and micro brews from other regions. The food is great, as well as the atmosphere. If you’re biking in the Ellijay area, I recommend Jilly’s Pub. Just off the Historic Town Square, Jilly’s has good pub-style food and a variety of beers on tap. Looking for a place to stay that caters to mountain bikers specifically? Look no further than Mulberry Gap Mountain Bike Get-A-Way, which is only nine miles from Ellijay and right in the middle of the Pinhoti Trail System. Bunkhouses, hot tubs, and creek-side decks create quite the “luxury camping experience.” Family-style, home-cooked meals are included, plus they have a bathhouse with private showers and plenty of hot water. So this spring come on out and take advantage of the best mountain biking trails north Georgia has to offer! AC Greg Dunn raced mountain and road bikes for nearly 15 years, racing the last 5 of those years at the elite level of the sport. He served as Head Cycling Coach at Lindsay Wilson College and holds a Master's Degree in Exercise Science.
Appalachian Country
April/May 2013
RACES
G R A N D O P E N I N G !
April 6th – Italian Road Bike Festival Packet Pickup will start at 7:30am. Ride Starts at 9:00am in downtown Ellijay, Georgia at the Dalton State College Gilmer Center, 103 Dalton St, Ellijay, GA 30540. $40 registration fee includes supported ride, lunch, cannoli and a t-shirt (must register by March 23, 2013). Ride is capped at 350 participants. For information: Cartecay River Bicycle Shop, 123 N. Main St, Ellijay, GA 30540. 706- 635-2453. For more info visit: www.cartecaybikes.com April 13th – Blue Ridge Mountain Adventure Race & Festival It's time to kick it up a notch in this year's Blue Ridge Mountain Adventure Race on April 13, 2013. This year there will be a few new twists, surprises and challenges in the mountains. New Kid's Race on Sunday, April 14 from 10 to 1 pm. New course with finish line at Mercier Orchards brings contestants to a festival held in their honor! For more information visit: www.adventureracega.com
New homes
from the $290's
May 5th – SERC Mountain Bike Race Ocoee Whitewater Center, Tanasi trail system. The site of the 2006 Whitewater Olympics, this trail is a classic mountain bike course, it starts with a steep two mile climb and then when you eventually get to the top you have been climbing for nearly six miles. The reward comes with the famous "Thunder Rock Express" downhill. Total distance is 11 miles per loop. Cost: Parking all day $3. Ocoee Whitewater Center or visit: www.goneriding.com 877-692-6050
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NORTH GEORGIAʼS OUTDOOR PLAYGROUND
craftsman inspired homes Choose from: two story plans master on main plans ranch plans ♦♦♦ just off Hwy 515 near Jasper 2.5 miles ◄
GA53
Jasper HWY 515
EXPLORETHEMOUNTAINS.COM
Atlanta
INFORMATION CENTRAL
THE GILMER COUNTY CHAMBER & WELCOME CENTER
706. 635. 7400
Mon thru Sat 9am–5pm • 696 First Avenue East Ellijay, GA 30540 www.explorethemountains.com • www.facebook.com/theellijays April/May 2013
For more information visit
www.thevillageatoakcreek.com
Appalachian Country
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WORDS: Betty kossick, Penney Trentman & Alice Sexton PhotoS: Blue ridge media group
SPRING
SPROUTS
IDEAS!
Ah! Spring’s bloom is with us. That means gardens, all kinds of gardens. We all claim our favorites. And some of us claim more than one kind. All require work from simply potting plants to plowing a vegetable garden, all give pleasure. For residents of north Georgia we are fortunate in that there are so many businesses to choose from, whose friendly owners provide the items we need to grow our vegetable and flower gardens, and to decorate our fanciful ones like the popular fairy gardens or our patios large or small. After reading about the creative ideas here you may want to take a day trip to visit them all and create your own dream garden. Clockwise from Top Right: House and Garden Boutique, Mountain Ridge Garden Center, Woodstock Market, Ace Hardware February/March 2013
Appalachian Country
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Gardening with Ace Hardware: All the Way!
There are gardens and there are gardens: vegetable and flower gardens, and both of them done organically, as well. There are large and small gardens; there are patio gardens, and container gardens. Everything you’ll need to complete your project can be found at ACE Hardware in Ellijay. They supply everything from tools, to soil preparation, to plants, landscape materials, and even advice. For 12 years, Bob Wright has operated the Garden Center at ACE and he’s there to help gardeners of all levels. He knows his business— and his products— and can make experience backed recommendations based on your needs. Wright suggests starting with a soil test, which can be done at your local University of Georgia’s Agriculture (UGA) Cooperative Extension. Once you’ve determined the condition, you can prepare the soil as needed. ACE carries a wide variety of fertilizers, compost and soil conditioners for any use. While top soil is a good filler, Wright does not 16
recommend that it be used on it’s own. Nature’s Helper Soil Conditioner is good for trees, and shrubs (advice ½ bag per fruit tree). For the smallest of gardens in pots, he suggests that you use potting soil, along with Miracle Grow Moisture control. Trees love mushroom compost. For Organic compost, use one cubic foot per tree. Peat moss is nothing short of a gift for the organic gardener and landscaper. It has amazing water-retention abilities, easily retaining more than 10 times its weight in moisture. This noticeably reduces the amount of watering the gardener would normally have to do. That same ability to absorb and retain moisture enables peat moss to also retain important nutrients within the soil, making for healthier, hardier plantings. ACE Hardware carries local distributor's fruit trees: eight varieties of apple, four of peach, Bruce plum, and Bartlett pear. Wright says that the fruit trees usually sell out, so get yours early. ACE carries most plant materials for the average backyard gardener. There’s a large selection of annuals and perennials
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including herbs, vegetables, shrubs, bedding plants, hanging baskets—and one of Bob Wright’s favorites—“toeticklers,” plants that are fill-ins between paving stones such as creeping Jenny and creeping Thyme. He also is partial to Coral Bells, Heuchera sanguinea, a perennial plant that lasts through winter and comes in a variety of foliage colors. (Editor's note- I plan on buying these from ACE for my home cabin!) Wright also suggests using three inches of mulch to keep in moisture and protect roots. ACE Hardware carries Cypress mulch, Pine bark mulch/ nuggets, Red bark mulch/ nuggets; one is not considered better than the other, it’s simply up to your design preference. He adds that any colored mulch should hold its color about two years. If you’re looking for bagged decorative rock, ACE offers several types: drainage rock, lava rock, river pebbles and egg rock, to mention a few. For larger projects that require hardscaping materials you’ll find railroad ties for retaining walls, 6X6" pressure treated lumber to build your raised beds, and more. Whatever your gardening needs, Bob Wright and ACE Hardware are there to help. ACE Hardware 305 Main St., Ellijay, GA 30540 706. 635. 2236 Acehardware.com
Appalachian Country
April/May 2013
House and Garden Boutique: The Perfect Patio Garden
As soon as you drive up to the House and Garden Boutique, you realize that the owner knows something about creative patio gardening. The walkway leading up to a charming house (that is filled with many things beautiful) is an instant giveaway that patios and porches help make a home more than just a roof over the head. Owner Lynn Paterson tells you why: She explains that a patio garden is a great option for apartment dwellers or couples who have downsized, “Even if you don’t have a deck or a poured concrete slab outside your door, you can create a simple patio garden space with just a few bags of river rock pebbles and sand. Add a couple of benches, small tables, potted plants, yard art and you’re good to go! “And almost anything goes! Mix and match textures and colors for an inviting and interesting look. For instance, incorporate both iron and concrete pots. Adding unusual items such as old window frames or doors and brightly painted birdhouses give an eclectic, cozy feel.” Paterson notes that for a truly singular look the best ideas can be obtained by gathering items from thrift stores, garden and flea markets. She suggests transforming an old chair into a flower pot holder. Just imagine it
with trailing petunias! Viola! A terrific designer look. Though many of Paterson’s customers are very precise and know exactly what they want to do with an area she’s always ready to help customers who come in looking for guidance in how to create a “wow” garden or patio look. She also points out that when a customer brings in a photo of the area they want to design, it helps greatly in the process. If your patio is enclosed, this gives you a whole new area to work with, walls! Picture climbing vines hanging wall art and lighting. Choose from glazed or unglazed ceramic, wrought iron and vintage items. Again, try mixing and matching colors, textures, old and new items. Are you designing on a budget? One of her “how to” tips is this, “If you already have a large ceramic patio urn, you can turn that into a fountain by adding a small pond base to it, a pump and a hose.” She also notes that potted plants and ledge rock, or any property rock you may have, are excellent coverups for the fountain base. Paterson strives to help customers avoid needless mistakes. Scale in
April/May 2013
Appalachian Country
the patio garden is all-important, and placing the right size décor or focal point element can make all the difference. “Too small can get lost in the plants, too large can be overwhelming. Consider color and the shape of your plants and your décor, and how you want to combine them to get the style your aiming for. Don’t be afraid to take a leap of creative faith and go with something out of the ordinary,” she reminds. And though she makes notice of funky items like old window frames and headboards as garden art, she also stocks a selection of Adirondack chairs, hand-painted pots, garden flags and birdhouses to set off any garden. This might be the year to try something completely different, and why not? After all House and Garden celebrates 10 years of successful business in the same location. Just look for big Adirondack chair in the front yard on Main Street in downtown Woodstock. House and Garden Boutique, 103 Bowles Drive, Woodstock, GA 30188, 678. 494. 5800, houseandgardenboutique.com
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Mountain Ridge Garden Shop: The Enchanted World of Fairy Gardening
Welcome to the hottest gardening craze on the planet: fairy gardening. It is everything you love about gardening only smaller!! Believing in the magic of fairies is just the beginning. Fairies are magical creatures that live in your garden and bring good luck, prosperity and good health to a chosen few whose gardens they inhabit. They are playful creatures that enjoy a good prank and frolic about your gardens with glee when you’re not looking. Gardeners can expect a little mischief in the garden after a night filled with fairy dancing and shenanigans. Rest assured this is all in good fairy fun and to let you know they are in your garden, making sure your plants will flourish and to protect humans from illness, danger and stress. How do you get these wonderful creatures to live in my garden you ask? 18
Build them a place to frolic!!!! A fairy garden can be any size or shape. You can build on the ground or in a container. It can be nestled against the trunk of a tree or stump, in and around a group of rocks or boulders, the corner of the deck where nothing else seems to fit. You can add in fairy-wooing features to one of your garden beds to entice them to live there. These are just a few ideal locations to start planning your fairyfun garden. Wherever you decide to build your garden make sure to choose the right plants for your location. Do you have full sun, full shade or is it mixed? How big do you want those plants to grow? Herbs work well in small gardens and so do Sedums and groundcovers. Using small gravel or mulch in the garden also enhances the fairy-families living space as well. After you choose your plants, then it’s time to decorate. All fairies need a place to hang out. They need things like tables and chairs or maybe a fire pit to
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dance around in the evenings. Use your imagination. You can use things that you would normally toss– just think, how would a fairy use that? Things like wine corks for stools and bottle caps for stepping stones. Don’t forget about a house. All fairies need a place to hide. Seek out those tiny birdhouses or that really cool jar that you just can’t seem to throw away. You can even use those broken tea cups or saucers. Use small dishes or ashtrays for pools for a fairy’s midnight swim. The creativity is endless. Invite those fairies to your garden. What are you waiting for?? At Mountain Ridge Garden Shop you’re sure to find the special touch of magic for your garden. In fact, you can discover it all, as you browse through the garden selections you might be persuaded that a fairy tossed some of her dust around because so many of the choices seem so magical. Mountain Ridge Garden Shop 746 River St., Ellijay, GA 30540 706. 698. 2815 mountainridgeshop.com mountainridge07@ive.com
Appalachian Country
April/May 2013
Woodstock Market: Reclaimed Vintage Art & Materials
Reclaimed Vintage Art & Materials. What visions do those words conjure up for you? Woodstock Market experts note that the scope of vintage art is broad: primitive, Early American, Victorian– and all the way to industrial farm. The ambiance created “Gives it a personal touch, and takes you back in time,” says owner Karen Bennett. Tying modern with vintage and still remaining relevant by avoiding the plastic look is all about what makes the gardener happy “ Fusing the two,” as Bennett notes, “we have seen the old and the new come together in amazing ways.” However, to start, the advice you’ll get at Woodstock Market is to start with one-you-can’t-live-without piece—and build from there. For gardeners who know that they want the vintage look but haven’t the foggiest idea how to go about it, and not end up with an old junky look rather than an “ooh” and “aah” look, how do they do it? Bennett explains April/May 2013
that strategy, planning, and vision are keys to developing what you want. If you like tropical, an iron carriage won’t work. Nor will a totem pole for an English garden. Internet Pinterest and Google garden styles/garden themes can supply ideas of what will grow and look best in your area. Also, check your landscaping selection’s full growth size. Bennett adds, “You don’t want your plantings to grow and overwhelm/outshine your art objects. The pairing must fit both short and long term. Then, come to Woodstock Market to merge what works in your patch of ground—and what you love to look at in vintage garden art.” Does vintage art fit in with any size garden? “Yes, indeed,” Bennett urges, “from the tiniest piece, under a small planter to a focal point such as an iron headboard for a Wisteria trail. Yes! Woodstock Market chooses to not define garden art for others. The reason Appalachian Country
may sound cliché, but it’s true, “beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” Choices are endless; however one example that the store’s associates point out is a customer, who used a child’s Victorian swing, hung, amidst a cut-flower garden and displayed industrial containers as planters for bright and beautiful flowers. As Bennett says, “The rules for gardens today is that there are no rules. We encourage customers to savor this trend where there is lack of convention—and do what they love. We have seen things work fabulously well with the right planning. One word of caution though is that if you live in a location under the auspices of a Home Owners Association aka Yard Police, check first before you make a big purchase, especially for the front yard. AC Woodstock Market 5500 Bells Ferry Rd., Acworth, GA 30102 770-517-7771 woodstockmarket.com www.acmagazine.org
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Cluck Your Heels Three Times and Say...
WORDS, Photos & Wicked Cool Art: AnDe Cook & Her muses
...Oh Boy I Love Fried Chicken! Part-Time Resident and Full-Time Artist Ande Cook Gives Us the Down Low on the Latest Organic Backyard Craze
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t all started at Brown's Feed and Seed in downtown Blue Ridge. I’d been treating the store like a kind of farm zoo, welcoming spring to a sound track of hundreds of peeping, chirping chicks. Their tiny heads frantically bobbed in and out of trays of starter feed. They were busily pecking and scratching through the shavings in their pens, erratically running around, climbing over each other and eventually collapsing under a heat lamp in exhaustion. It was adorable, and definitely not something I was accustomed to seeing. I was, after all, a recovering city person, just a few years into my "country life." Sporting an astonishing assortment of shapes and colors, the baby chicks displayed little hints of mature patterns to come on their tiny wings. I was on the verge of becoming a loitering pest and realized I had to go ahead and get some chickens. I studied the breeder posters to see if I could match the baby chicks with the illustrations of the adults. When I figured out what I wanted, I bought my first three chickens. Bantams. "They are smaller,” I said, "easy to take back and forth to Atlanta". April/May 2013
Above Left: Easter found a cache of termites under the leaves. Above Right: Lily in her blueberry laying box. Our coop was made entirely of recycled and repurposed materials. Left: From the Williams-Sonoma Catalog, the Alexandria Chicken Coop & Run. Priced from $599.95 to $1449.95.
"I'll have fresh organic freerange eggs and I'll stick it to big corporate food," I said. "If I am what I eat, then I am whatever my chickens eat too, right?" This, I suspect, is how new chicken people, like myself, rationalize the leap into the feathered symbol of rural revival and urban homesteading. And who can blame us? Choosing to eat healthy chicken products is an exercise in avoiding hormones, antibiotics, GMO feed, and caged birds. Getting your own chickens is the ultimate in food sourcing! Or maybe it was the charming Williams-Sonoma Agrarian catalog– with page after glossy page of pastoral scenes featuring readyto-go coops and stylish chicken accessories– that signaled to me that the chicken trend was evolving into bona-fide suburban revolution. As anyone who bought into WilliamsSonoma Agrarian catalog view of raising chickens will tell you, it's definitely not about saving money. When I consider
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what I’ve spent on the country coop, the city condo coop, traveling carriers, organic feed, oyster shells, grit, pine shavings, feeders, waterers, meal worms and sunflower treats, I figure every egg averages around $17. Just like my home grown organic heirloom tomatoes. On the upside, I didn't anticipate that my chicks would grow up to have such distinctive personalities! There's Easter, the tiny golden jewel of a hen with a big personality and a poor laying record. Because she’s so cute and personable, I've let her come in the cabin a few times at night, mostly to entertain guests. I’ve now created a monster. This little bird has butted the bottom of the screen door relentlessly until she punched out a hole big enough for her to enter at will so she can do such charming things as jump up on the kitchen counter and peck into a stick of butter, or beg strings of vermicelli off the Mister, or roost on the bookcase where she can hold court over all cabin activities. She's good about staying in that one place, so I just slide a piece of newspaper under her and let her be. Vera the Barred-Rock has an agreeable nature and a beautiful brick of a body. Plus she’s quiet! Her little sounds are softly inquisitive and bright. Quiet is a trait I’ve grown 22
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Above Left: Vera and Wren in a rhododendron hammock behind the art studio. Above Right: Better than the USDA– the flock examines a pole bean harvest. Left: Vera and Edith (R.I.P) check out my first batch of Easter egg radishes. Top Right: A gouache illustration of the Hound and Hens in their Atlanta yard. Far Right: Barred Rock folk art painting with bottle caps 14 x 18." Near Right: Bottle cap chick #4.
to treasure in chickens after losing my little Wren to a hawk last summer. Wren was a noisy, tireless complainer who broadcast like a beacon to hungry raptors, endangering all the hens. And since they free-range almost all day, a noisy bird is a hazard. Vera is on top of the pecking order, and is the best lookout sentry the flock could have. I count on her watchful eye to spot danger and sound the warning trill to alert the flock. Free ranging is dangerous, but I think it's a fair trade-off against being penned up all day for safety. The hens are much happier and healthier when they are free to roam and I’ve made peace with the possibility of loss. In 7 years I’ve only lost two to hawks. Peggy Jean possesses an air of self-determination and a crazy pair of earmuffs. Her head down forward running rush reminds me of a college football scrimmage line. Birds lower
Appalachian Country
April/May 2013
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on the pecking order better move aside! Peggy Jean can spot a jar of peanut butter from a distance better than any chick in the flock and cover the ground to get to it the fastest. Plus her eggs are the most beautiful pale green. Last year I added Lily and Annette. Lily, a classic Welsummer, and on the large size for a Bantam, lays lovely speckled brown eggs. Her big and efficient earth moving feet can yield a haul of earthworms and tender pupae throughout the day, keeping her entertained while honing her foraging skills. She might be my favorite because she’s incredibly beautiful. She’s so big she has her own travel carrier, while the other three ride together in another. Annette is a shiny iridescent black with a stylishly appointed Polish Crest. Her crest flopped off to the left side of her head, covering one eye, resembling a hip hairstyle. When Annette began launching sneak attacks on the back of our legs and crowing loudly she became known as "Muchacho" and "Death from Below." I’d wanted to keep the rambunctious cockerel, but when Muchacho's crows alerted our Atlanta neighbors to our stealth coop in the back yard, we worried about complaints. Therefore, Muchacho went to live with Michelle in Mineral Bluff. And is much happier in her– er his– new home, a large run filled with soft clover and an entire harem of Silkies. It's all worked out. Four is the perfect number of hens for this family. Now we’re planning to build a brand new coop out by the garden where they’ll get more sun and have a job in assisting with gardening and pest control chores. We've learned that having them hang around the house has some clear drawbacks. Mostly tearing up potted plants and leaving fertilizer in inappropriate places where it’s not needed. The hens have earned a new chicken palace. After all, they’ve starred in lots of my home movies from comedies to Italian operas and even horror films, in which they've excelled. If you imagine a chicken that is dinosaur sized (and indeed the dino’s are their ancestors) you can see how those crazy features could work to a frightening effect. I’ve conscripted each of them, without consent, and they've been exploited time and again for art, with a mostly good nature. April/May 2013
Top: Eggs from Peggy Jean, Vera and Easter. Lily was not yet laying at the time of this photograph. Below: A stack of $40 chicken paintings.
Our hens are my muses as well– being featured in dozens of paintings, hundreds of illustrations, countless blog posts, photo essays and Facebook updates. They are valued members of the family that connect us back to the good earth in a most elemental way. I believe this is where the true appeal lives, understanding that caring for the land and her creatures is the same as caring for our own lives and for the future. Sustainable thoughtful living is on the rise precisely because life giving resources are fragile, and we sense them slipping away. Now and then on 515 I'll pass a tractor-trailer of fat white chickens stacked in metal cages. Soon they’ll be plucked, packaged and stuck under a fluorescent light at the grocery store. I often wonder if these chickens had had the kind of life my chickens have, would they also be unique individuals? Would they have liked dusting under the studio? Perhaps sunning at the edge of the hemlocks, with their wings stretched out like solar panels? Would any of them surf the dashboard of my old truck, as Easter did? Would these be brave enough to fly across the creek like Peggy Jean did the afternoon a hawk dipped and missed? Of course they would. But the world needs food and the trailer moves on. I look over at the carriers containing my own small flock en-route to the city and take comfort in knowing that everyday more people are discovering the joy of raising chickens. AC Thinking about getting chickens? Here are some useful links: MyPetChicken.com BackYardChickens.com ChickenWhisperer.net Ande Cook is an artist and aspiring farmer. You can find her Saturday mornings at the Blue Ridge Farmers Market in the downtown Blue Ridge City Park. Or you can see her art, and chicken movies, at www. andecookstudio.com.
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WORDS: Victoria Placher Betty Kossick PHOTOS: Bob Colley Photography & Blue ridge media Group
Kickin' It Back
Cowboy Style
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Imagine yourself in the north Georgia Mountains on Lake Blue Ridge, at The Cowboy Lodge: the perfect place to revel in your dream mountain vacation. The Cowboy Lodge isn’t some little motel on a dusty mound, it’s a multimillion dollar cabin-styled home made specially for families or corporate retreats. The lodge-style furnishings provide you with a total breathtaking mountain indoor-ambience. After a restful night’s sleep, you’ll wake up to an amazing sunrise over Lake Blue Ridge and your own bit of paradise in the mountains. You’ll want to start your day leisurely enjoying it all, before taking off to check out the quaint Appalachian mountain towns and their unique shops, which are just minutes away. Start your day by visiting Historic Downtown Blue Ridge, where charm
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is seen and felt everywhere. Inviting specialty boutiques, ice cream parlors and high-end dinning await the adventurous traveler and the aimless wanderer. Stop at the Blue Ridge Brewery, a local favorite– and enjoy a full bar, home-brewed beer and a seasonal menu. Then, to rest your feet, buy a ticket at the Historic Railroad Depot built in 1905, and ride the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. The trip takes you on a clickedy-clackedy journey along the scenic river. Stopping at the border of sister towns McCaysville, GA and Copperhill, TN where you can stand with one foot in each state! If fishing is your passion, you’ve got the lake at your doorstep, or minutes away, is the Toccoa River. Did you know Blue Ridge is the trout fishing capital of Georgia? www.acmagazine.org
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So the kids want to swim? There’s a water slide off the dock– they can slide and squeal all day long just under your watchful eye. If you’d rather be super-relaxed and not take on town or train, you don’t even have to leave the Cowboy Lodge. Just enjoy quiet fun playing horse shoes, bocce or shooting pool. Find delicious delight in your own cooking– by the fire pit or grilling your favorite food on a rotisserie gas grill or the popular Green Egg. 28
At the end of a perfect day, the Cowboy Lodge, is all yours for relaxing. The luxurious hot tub awaits. and then watch a 3D movie on the extra largescreen TV. The Lodge sleeps 17 people and has four and one-half bathrooms. With two full kitchens and local restaurants just minutes away, you can be as waited upon as you desire, or you can cook breakfast, lunch and dinner and be as do-it-yourself as you wish. The Cowboy Lodge is both luxurious
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and spacious– your vacation here will provide you with the atmosphere, comfort and relaxation you deserve. Fees range from $1,000 - $1,750 a night– with the memories you make, and the total "Cowboy" experience, we assure you of its value. AC To reserve the Cowboy Lodge or for more information, simply call 706. 258. 7936 or visit the Cowboy Lodge listing site at www.vrbo.com/414823
Appalachian Country
April/May 2013
Spring is in Full Swing at Lakota Cove!
N o r t h G e o r g i a’ s L a r g e s t “A m e r i c a n M a d e ” G a l l e r y Inspired by the Colors & Charm of Nature
February/March 2013
Appalachian Country
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Farm to Table Local roots Reap Sustainable Rewards
61 MAIN
in 2008, after spending their post college years in Charleston, SC together, Tadd & Jenna ventured to North Georgia to put down some roots and make this their home. In short time, Jasper came to be their town of choice to share their passion for the restaurant industry. This husband and wife duo, along with their dedicated family and friends took over an already existing establishment on historic Main Street in downtown Jasper. They made it their own by using as much locally sourced food and products in their restaurant as possible, serving seasonal cuisine, creative cocktails, and sustainable wines in an inviting atmosphere. Their aim was to make their restaurant feel as if they were inviting you into their home rather than their business. With her degree from Johnson and Wales Culinary School in Charleston, South Carolina, Jenna Schreiber began her career training under some of the bestknown chefs in the culinary capital of the south. She then took a position as a private chef for a family and had the opportunity to travel around the world while cooking— 30
WORDS: Jenna Schreiber PHOTOS: Blue ridge media group
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AC RECIPES
keeping fresh ingredients at the forefront. This exposed her to the realities of the mainstream food industry and guided her to a true appreciation of "real" food. Upon opening her restaurant, 61 Main, she decided to go back to the basics by staying local. The goal for 61 Main is to limit the impact made on the environment— less flying, driving, and fuel consumption— and using the bounty from Jasper and its neighboring communities. Over the past five years as chef and owner of 61 Main, the importance of her commitment to "keeping it local" has become more evident. With the rise of society’s awareness of what we fuel our bodies with, the concept Jenna introduced to this area has really caught on and with that the success of 61 Main. She and her staff work closely with the local farmers and artisans in their menu planning to ensure that the food is in season, making use of what is most abundant. The common chef builds a shopping list from their menu, while Jenna and her team create their dishes around what their farmers bring to them. Jenna feels it’s her responsibility and of utmost importance to serve people food they can trust!
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Georgia Shrimp Salad
Serves 4-6 2 lbs peeled & deveined fresh GA shrimp 2 watermelon radishes, julienned 2 heads butter crunch / Bibb lettuce 1 cup mayo of choice 1 Tablespoon horseradish 1 Tablespoon sriracha 1 Tablespoon lemon/lime juice 1 Tablespoon chopped fresh Italian flat leaf parsley Salt & pepper Shrimp In a pot large enough to hold shrimp, bring generously salted water to a boil. Once boiling, drop shrimp into pot, allow to cook for 3-5 minutes, depending in size, then drain and submerge in an ice bath until completely chilled. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Sauce Mix mayo, horseradish, sriracha, lemon/lime, & parsley. Season to taste & add more sriracha/horseradish if desired. If you would prefer a thin dressing like sauce, you can whisk in a little water. Assembly Place a bed of the butter crunch/Bibb lettuce on a plate. Top with desired amount of shrimp, then watermelon radishes, & place a dollop of sriracha mayo on plate/drizzle over shrimp & lettuce.
Pasta with Peas, Asparagus, & Basil Pesto Cream Serves 4-6 12 ounces orecchiette (little ear-shaped pasta) or the pasta of your choice 2 cups fresh asparagus, cut into 1" pieces 1 cup fresh or frozen green peas 2 tablespoons chopped fresh garlic 1 cup heavy cream 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan 2 tablespoons basil pesto (your own homemade or store bought) Salt & ground white pepper to taste Additional shaved Parmesan cheese
Sauce In a small heavy bottom saucepan melt the butter & whisk in the chopped garlic. Continue to whisk over medium heat until the garlic is a light golden brown. Add the heavy cream & simmer until the mixture begins to thicken and reduces by approximately 1/3. Be sure to keep a close watch & whisk frequently as the cream tends to boil over. Add the Parmesan cheese & basil pesto. Remove from the heat & season to taste. Keep the sauce warm while preparing the pasta. 32
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Pasta Bring a 4-qt. pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta & stir. Set a timer for 13 minutes. After 3 minutes of cooking, add the peas & stir frequently. With 4 minutes left on the timer, add the asparagus, & stir. When the timer goes off, drain the pasta except for a few tablespoons of the cooking water. Add the pesto cream to the pasta & stir to evenly coat the noodles. Place in serving bowls and top with fresh Parmesan.
Pork Osso Bucco
Serves 4-6 4-6 pieces of pork shank (osso bucco) Salt and pepper 2 tablespoons canola oil 2 onions, chopped 1/2 bottle (375 ml) dry white wine 14.5-ounce (435 g) can plum tomatoes 2 garlic cloves, chopped 1 cup (250 ml/8 fl oz) chicken stock, more if need 2 cups fresh/frozen peaches or 1 cup peach nectar Season shanks and place in preheated heavy bottomed oven proof skillet with 2 tablespoons canola oil. Sear to a golden brown on each side. Take
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April/May 2013
AC RECIPES Cream Cheese Filling Place the cream cheese in a mixer bowl fitted with the paddle attachment. Begin to mix slowly, then add 75% of the blueberries (if frozen, thaw slightly), set the other blueberries aside. Add the remainder of the brown sugar & vanilla extract. Mix until the mixture becomes spreadable. Set aside. Blueberry Sorghum Place the sorghum, remaining blueberries & butter in a small saucepan and bring to a very gentle boil. Stir for approximately 3-5 minutes until the ingredients make a nice drizzle. Set aside for later use.
shanks out of the pan, pour out the oil, then deglaze the pan with the white wine. Add the remainder of the ingredients, bring to a boil, then shut off the heat & put the shanks back in the pan. Cover with foil and roast in 300 degree oven for approximately 2.5-3.5 hours until very tender. Take shanks out of cooking liquid then reduce & purĂŠe sauce to desired consistency. Season to taste with salt & pepper plus add some crushed red pepper flakes if a little heat is desired. Place shanks on plate, drizzle with sauce & top with fresh chopped herbs of your choice.
Blueberry Cream Cheese Bread Pudding with Sorghum
Serves 4-6 1/2cup dark brown sugar 2 cups fresh/frozen blueberries 8 oz. cream cheese 1 One pound sliced loaf egg bread, challah, or enriched bread of your choice cut into approximately 1/2 inch thick slices 2 cups heavy cream 6 large eggs April/May 2013
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 cup sorghum syrup or maple syrup if unavailable 2 tablespoons butter Egg & Cream Custard Place cream, sugar, 1/2 of the brown sugar, & cinnamon into a heavy bottom sauce pan. Whisk together & simmer until sugar is dissolved. In a separate bowl whisk together the eggs. Remove the cream mixture from the heat & whisk a small amount of the hot mixture into the eggs a little bit at a time. Slowly continue to incorporate the cream into the eggs, then set aside. Appalachian Country
Assembly Generously butter a casserole dish. Begin by dipping half of the bread slices into the egg cream custard then make a layer of the dipped bread in the bottom of the casserole dish. Then spoon a few tablespoons of the cream over the bread. Spread the cream cheese over the layer then repeat the dipping and making of a layer with the remainder of the bread. Spoon cream over the top layer of bread to make sure it is moist. You might not use all of the custard. Finally, drizzle the sorghum mixture over the top layer. Cover with foil & bake at 350 until set, approximately 30-45 minutes. Take off the foil towards the end of the baking and allow to brown lightly in the top. Serve dusted with powdered sugar or topped with unsweetened whipped cream. AC Lunch: Monday - Saturday, 11am-3pm Brunch: Saturday, 9am - 3pm Supper: Monday, 5pm - 9pm Dinner: Thursday - Saturday, 5pm-9pm Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday between 3-5pm we serve dessert, coffee, soup, and the bar is open. 49 South Main Street Jasper, GA 30143 Reservations: 706. 253. 7289 www.61main.com www.acmagazine.org
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VANGOGHS HIDEAWAY where the magic begins
There’s something about Kathe Hall, owner of VanGoghs Hideaway in Jasper, that makes you want to hug her tight. A resident for close to twenty years, this lifelong lover of the arts and local Mixed-Media Artist, brings color and light to the room. And the many people that know her feel the same. The desire to share comes naturally to Kathe, and hearing her recap a conversation she had with a student’s mother recently emphasizes how important her child’s art classes at VanGoghs Hideaway had become. So much so, the family had to rearrange vacation plans so their child wouldn’t miss a single class. I could see how touched Kathe was by this and how it could absolutely fuel her to keep teaching classes for another twenty years. If you look through the windows of VanGoghs Hideaway–a cozy bungalow in Historic Downtown Jasper–you’ll see a gathering place for artists and 34
art admirers, A place to explore art with ongoing classes in Fiber, Glass, Clay, Paint, Paper, Music, Organic Gardening and more– all taught by skilled, professional artisans and craftspeople from across North Georgia. In the summertime, the yard is filled with cozy tents, art activities for kids and adults, organic gardens, new fruit trees, and nights of drumming around the fire. The sweet Gallery inside VanGoghs hosts works by several talented local artists, featuring works in paint, wood, fiber, clay, jewelry, metal and more and is home to Jasper’s own Appalachian Folk Artist, Billy Roper. There are gift ideas for even the hardest person on your list inside this colorful space. What else? Drumming! You’ll find the cozy living room inside VanGoghs Hideaway vibrating with drums on the regular. This is a fun social event that hosts talented local musicians as well as novices and new
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for this summer we’ll be hosting The Sharptop Strings, and more, outside around the fire. Learn an instrument as VanGoghs adds wooden flute and drum to their musical class list.
Appalachian Country
Kathe Hall
April/May 2013
AC BUSINESS PROFILE
CALL FOR ARTIST ENTRIES! Patio & Garden Live Auction May 11 6:00-9:30 pm Ever want to learn gardening? Well VanGoghs is planning a wonderful garden this year as a teaching tool for children and adults alike. A proposed Fig Tree will be planted in dedication to Joe Rueffert of the Historical WoodBridge Inn in Jasper. Cooking and Healthy Living skills are also on the menu, so diving into the dirt and planting some seeds with VanGoghs could prove to be a rewarding harvest! Maybe we will even see the kids at the local Farmer’s market this year selling all their artworks that they made from VanGoghs Hideaway. Our Summer Art Camp for grades K through 5 will be a week filled with “The Art of Recycling”. (June 17th-21st) Did you know that downtown Jasper had an art framer? VanGoghs is also happy to be home to Hindsight Framing, offering a full line of custom framing options. Owner, Audrey Webb has a passion for reclaimed art and fine woodworking. She brings creative options to anything you need framed. Her studio is located right inside VanGoghs! Come see her! VanGoghs Hideaway’s newest addition is the More Than Mud Pies studios, featuring local sculptor Lynn Marie Dwyer. Dwyer will be offering
fine art instruction in clay sculpture and mixed media for children as well as adults. Kiln and materials as well as other clay supplies will be available. Kathe’s constant presence in the art world of Pickens County has not gone unnoticed. As mandatory budget cuts strip away at the very core of art for our children in public education, she is stepping up her game by offering all types of art classes for everyone. What a lucky day for Jasper GA, since Kathe has brought colorful VanGoghs Hideaway to life for the little kid in us all. VanGoghs Hideaway is a true treasure in the mix. It is a place that welcomes you with what feels like a hug, filled with accepting and positive people, artists, art lovers and maybe just those young at heart. Anyone with a love for the arts, will appreciate a place to
April/May 2013
Appalachian Country
Benefitting Local Art Students through the Sharptop Arts Association
Entry Deadline April 11
Audrey Webb
For Details Contact info@sharptopartsassociation.org Jeanette Bottari 770. 735. 4366 www.sharptopartsassociation.org
hideaway like this, in the foothills of the Appalachian mountains. Come on in and get creative. It Truly Is Where the Magic Begins!
AC
Keep up with all the art classes and events that VanGoghs Hideaway has to offer: Facebook (vangoghshideaway) Wordpress (vangoghshideaway) Twitter (@VGHIDEAWAY) VanGoghs Hideaway Art Studio & Gallery Tuesday- Friday 10-5, Saturday 10-2 and by appointment! 120 S Main Street Jasper, GA 30143 706. 253. 2312
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BLUE RIDGE COMMUNITY THEATER PRESENTS
Please Don’t talk to the actors Featruting a cast you know and with whom you love to laugh.
Thursday thru Sundays April 11, 2013 thru April 28, 2013 Thursday – Saturday at 7:30 PM Sundays at 2 PM Rated PG
A BAd YeAr for TomAToes A hilariuos and juicy comedy that will delight the audience. Thursday thru Sundays May 16, 2013 thru June 2, 2013 Thursday – Saturday at 7:30 PM Sundays at 2 PM Rated PG thEatEr ticKEts maKE grEat mother’s day giFts
2013 season individual tickets & season Passes
atlanta’s 5x Best music Vocalist! michEllE malONE Friday, may 3, 2013 291 East 1st strEEt • BluE ridgE, ga 706. 632. 9223 Buy ONliNE @ www.BluEridgEcOmmuNitythEatEr.cOm 36
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Appalachian Country
April/May 2013
2013 BIG CANOE TOUR OF HOMES
WORDS: Jean LOmax PHOTOS: Jean LOmax Val Doll
BIG CANOE TOUR OF HOMES CELEBRATES 25 YEARS OF CARING Annual Event Has Raised More Than $1,000,000 to Assist Local Charities The 2013 Big Canoe Tour of Homes is titled Legacy of Caring and will be held May 3-4 from 9:00 am to 5 pm on Friday and until 4 pm on Saturday in Big Canoe, Georgia. Tour-goers will travel to four unique and well-appointed homes in comfortable transportation, enjoying commentary about the history of the area as their carriage winds along. Cost for a Tour ticket is $20.00 and can be purchased at www.bigcanoetour.org Tickets can also be purchased in Big Canoe on the days of the Tour. Before or after visiting the homes, guests will enjoy browsing and buying at the Tour of Homes Marketplace where dozens of vendors will delight with an array of crafts, arts, trinkets, and treasures. Talented Big Canoe artists will be showcased at one of the homes. The Tour’s Book Nook is the place to find exceptionally well-priced books, DVDs, and CDs, and the Collectors’ Corner offers the finest in gently used accessories for home and entertaining. Take home a sweet from the Bear Paw Bakery where cookies, pies, breads, and cakes will tempt. The Crazy Bear Café is the place to savor a hearty breakfast or lunch. On Saturday, May 4 from 9:30 am until 3:30 pm, the MG Club will have 25 cars on exhibit with knowledgeable owners on hand to share stories about their beloved English sports cars. Since 1989, the Big Canoe Chapel Women’s Guild has sponsored the Tour of Homes to raise funds to assist more than 27 charities in Dawson and Pickens counties. So far, $1,118,000 has been raised to help those in need. If you’d like more information about the Big Canoe Tour of Homes, please call Jean Lomax at 706. 268. 1396 or e-mail Jean at jl2770@tds.net. AC April/May 2013
Top Left: An architectural wonder. Wayne and Eileen Bruce turned a simple ranch-style Big Canoe home into an architectural showplace. Top Right: Enjoy lunch or rest awhile at the Crazy Bear Café before or after visiting the homes. Above: The Collectors' Corner offers a glorious selection of gently used home accessories, china, silver, glassware and antiques.
TOUR OF HOMES MARKETPLACE
&
Tour four beautiful homes and shop the Marketplace Fri. May 3 h Sat. May 4 Big Canoe, georgia
Appalachian Country
Vintage MG Car Exhibit Saturday Tickets available from www.bigcanoetour.org h Hosted by Big Canoe Chapel Women’s Guild
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EVERYTHING SPRING
2013 FESTIVALS!
North GA Zoo Easter Celebration! 2013 Dates: April 1 & April 4 - 8 Join us for this year's Easter Celebration! Going on the last 2 weekends of March and Easter week and weekend! Enjoy the Rabbitpalooza! Touch, hold and learn about a dozen types of rabbits. Lots of baby bunnies! Enjoy Egg hunting in a whole new fashion. North Georgia Zoo and Petting Farm, 2912 Paradise Valley Rd, Cleveland, GA 30528. For more information call 706. 348. 7279, or visit northgeorgiazoo.com. 16th Annual Blue Ridge Writers' Conference 2013 Dates: April 5 – 6 Writers will learn to hone their skills & expand their markets at the next Blue Ridge Writers’ Conference. Keynote speaker, Vicki Lane. Other featured speakers will be C. Hope Clark, Scott Owens, Louise McKinney, Diane Hamilton, Jamie Dodson & Wanda Vaughn. 4/5 at 5-7pm & 4/6/2013 at 8:30am-5pm. Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association, 420 West Main, Blue Ridge, GA. For more information call: 706. 632. 2144 or blueridgearts.net. 1st Annual Springfest 2013 Date: April 6 Welcome spring in Alpine Helen at our first SPRINGFEST!! A celebration of new life, Bavarian Style. Enjoy Bavarian Music, dancing, food, and beverages. 6-11pm, Helen Festhalle, 1074 Edelweiss St., Helen, GA 30545. For more information visit helenchamber.com or call 706. 878. 1908. 38
Blairsville Kiwanis Mountain Fair 2013 Dates: April 9 - April 14 Carnival rides, games, cattle show, bluegrass music, food and a petting Zoo for kids. Located on Airport Industrial Drive, just off of Hwy 515W, Blairsville, GA For more information call: 706. 781. 6552. Tackrock Spring Hammer-In 2013 Dates: April 12 - 13 Bladesmithing, hawk forging, leather crafting and forge building. Watch, meet and talk with several talented bladesmiths. This is a family oriented event open to all with no admission fee. Tackrock Campground & Cabins, Blairsville, GA. www.tackrock.com, or visit www.georgiaknifemakersguild.com Spring Plein Aire Festival 2013 Dates: April 12, 13, 14 The Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association (The Art Center) celebrates Art & Adventure this Spring with opportunities for our artists to come together and capture our area's incredible beauty in Plein Aire! The Spring Plein Aire Festival brings together the excitement of the Annual Blue Ridge Adventure Race along with the beauty of our mountain spring. Free. 9 am to 4 pm. For more information call 706. 632. 2144 or visit blueridgearts.com. Blue Ridge Mountain Adventure Race & Festival 2013 Date: April 13 It's time to kick it up a notch in this year's Blue Ridge Mountain Adventure Race on
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April 13, 2013. This year we will have a few new twists, surprises and challenges in the mountains. New Kid's Race on Sunday, April 14 from 10 to 1 pm. New course with finish line at Mercier Orchards and brings contestants to a festival held in their honor! For more information visit: www. adventureracega.com 17th Annual Bear on the Square Mountain Festival 2013 Dates: April 19, 20-21 Head to Dahlonega for a lively weekend of music and art held in and around the town's Historic Public Square. The jamming starts Friday April 19th with a Live Country Auction that night. FREE on-stage performances by local, regional, and national musicians throughout the day in the Main Stage Tent with a heavy emphasis on bluegrass and old-time music. Enjoy the juried Artist Marketplace on the square featuring traditional mountain crafts, plus a Country Store at Hancock Park. For more information visit: bearonthesquare.org. Rhododendron Festival at Hamilton Gardens 2013 Dates: April 19 – May 12 Take in the beauty of more than 3,000 rhododendrons, azaleas and wildflowers on the Lake Chatuge walking trail. Blooming Season - April & May. Each Weekend, specially selected vendors will be offering a variety of handcrafted garden arts & crafts in our upper parking level. Fridays & Saturdays, 10am - 5 pm, Sundays 12 to
Appalachian Country
April/May 2013
AC SPRING FESTIVALS 5 PM Hamilton Gardens, 1311 Music Hall Road, Hiawassee, Georgia 30546. For more information call 706. 896. 4191 or visit georgiamountainfairgrounds.com. The Fourth Annual Taste of Sautee 2013 Date: April 27 Great local food, music and art can be enjoyed along with tastings from Serenity Cellars, Yonah Mountain Vineyards, Sautee Nacoochee Vineyards, Habersham Winery and The Cottage Winery. Live music all day. General admission & parking is free. Wine Tasting Admission is $20 and includes a free event glass. 10am - 6pm. Sautee Village, 2454 Highway 17, Sautee, GA 30571. For more information call 706. 878. 0144 or visit tasteofsautee.com Yonah Band of Cherokees Spring Pow Wow 2013 Dates: April 27 - 28 Featuring Native American intertribal dancers and drummers, crafts, Cherokee displays, and local food vendors. Get a temporary tattoo of your name in Cherokee and eat some Cherokee Fry Bread. Listen to bluegrass music, songs in Cherokee and flute music. The Pow Wow takes place at Gabby's Cabins 3083 Helen Hwy 75, half way between Cleveland and Helen Admission is $20. Saturday 9am to 6pm, Sunday 10am to 4pm. For more information call 404. 803. 0669. Taste of Marietta 2013 Date: April 27 On the last Saturday in April they close off antebellum Marietta Square and pack the streets with antique autos, games for the kids and food, food, food. Start with fresh-brewed coffee from the local coffee shop, try a taste of local cuisine from a local restaurant and top it off with scrumptious dessert. Come hungry for this one! For more information visit tateofmarietta.com, or call 770.428.1115. 6th Annual Taste of Blue Ridge 2013 Date: April 20th This fantastic event benefits the Humane Society of Blue Ridge. Over 30 Local restaurants will provide the delicious food for you to sample. There will be a silent auction, a live auction, vendors, beer/wine and live music, so bring your dancing shoes and an appetite! Tickets go on sale March 1st! The last few years have sold out prior to the event. This year looks to be another sellout – get your tickets early! 5pm. to 8p.m. Located at Hi Country Events, 13 Trackside Court, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. For more information call 706. 632. 5224 or visit www. humanesocietyofblueridge.org.
April/May 2013
25th Anniversary– Big Canoe Tour of Homes 2013 Dates: May 3 - 4 For the past 25 years, the Tour of Homes has invited the community to take a peek into many interesting, beautiful and unique. This year is no exception. The upcoming Silver Anniversary Tour of Homes is sponsored by the Big Canoe Chapel Women’s Guild and over the years has raised more than a million dollars to benefit charities in Dawson and Pickens counties. For more information contact: 706. 268. 1396, bigcanoetour.org Annual 12 Rivers Art Festival 2013 Date: May 4 The historic Sautee Nacoochee Center is pleased to sponsor a juried show of fine arts and crafts. Feature the work of artists from throughout the Southeast – many demonstrating their craft – in a sun-dappled, stroll-able environment. Food, craft, beer and wine booths. Free. 10am - 5pm. SauteeNacoochee Community Center, 283 Highway 255 North, Sautee, GA 30571. For more information call: 706. 878. 3300 Back to Basics in Blue Ridge 2013 Date: May 4 A Sustainable Family Lifestyle Expo. 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Be Inspired: Come and learn sustainable backyard farming tips from experienced presenters. Classes include, keeping bees, growing from seed, farm animal care, growing herbs and much more. Cohutta Country Store, 404-217-0041 For updates visit; www.newleafadventures.com 4th Annual Butterfly Benefit Bluegrass Festival 2013 Dates: May 10 - 11 A full schedule of bluegrass performers coming together at Union County's Saddle Club Arena. Come for a few hours or for the day. Music is provided by members of the Southeastern Bluegrass Association. Enjoy arts & craft vendors, a classic car show and many food concessions. Adults $5.00, Children under 12 – Free. Proceeds are donated to a selected charity. Friday, 5 - 8pm, Saturday, 12 - 8pm, Saddle Club Arena, 73 Saddle Club Drive, Blairsville, GA. For more information call 706. 745.3420 or visit butterflybluegrassfestival.com. 3rd Annual Georgia Mountain Eggfest 2013 Dates: May 17-18 An Eggfest is a gathering of Big Green Egg fans and experienced cooks/chefs from all across the country and Canada. The cooks will be preparing their specialty recipes all Appalachian Country
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day long. The non-cooks (tasters) are free to sample and experience wonderful egged food while talking to the cooks about their recipes and techniques. Tasters should arrive between 9:00 and 11:00 am Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Road, Hiawassee, GA 30546. For more information call 706. 896. 4966or visit mountainegg.com Canton Festival of the Arts 2013 Date: May 18th Artists, music, food, a youth art exhibit, and a hands-on area for children in Brown Park, Canton. Third weekend in May, 10 am-5 pm. Presented by the Cherokee County Arts Council. For more information call 770. 704. 6244, or visit CherokeeArts.org. 7th Annual Tri - State Business Women's Expo 2013 Date: May 18 This event is free to the public, and will showcase 100+ local businesses. Each business that is participating will have a door prize to give away, and will offer specials on their products and services. Food, music, and fun! 9am – 3pm, Union County Farmer's Market, 148 Old Smokey Rd (off Weaver Rd) Blairsville, GA. For more information call 706. 781. 1050 or visit www.tristatebusinesswomen.com 11th Annual Ball Ground Heritage Days Parade & Festival 2013 Date: May 18 A hometown parade followed by a 2-day, old-fashioned country festival with live music, food, vendors, kids games and more! Downtown Ball Ground, GA. For more information visit: ballgroundheritagedays.com 37th Annual Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association Spring Arts in the Park 2013 Dates: May 25 & 26 With over 175 fine arts, crafts and food booths, the Spring Arts in the Park festival has something for everyone— terrific activities for the children, and special events for the big kids. Blue Ridge offers a unique shopping experience in its downtown shops and galleries. Make your plans now to spend Memorial Day weekend at the Blue Ridge Arts in the Park! For more information contact: 706.632.2144, or visit: blueridgearts.net Bavarian Fest 2013 Date: May 25 Help us honor our Military and Civil Servants. Free admission for all military personnel and a guest! Experience a bit of Bavaria while you and your family enjoy our Memorial Day Festival! A live Oompah band, dancing, beer and wine, wurst on a bun with sauerkraut, www.acmagazine.org
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VISA • MC • DISCOVER
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APRIL 5th & MAY 3RD Woodstock Friday Nights Live! First Friday of every month in Downtown Woodstock. Merchants stay open late, 6pm-9pm, and celebrate with a themed downtown wide festival. Call 770. 924. 0406 for theme info! April/May 2013
AC SPRING FESTIVALS make for a festive German atmosphere. 6pm - 11pm, Helen Festhalle, 1074 Edelweiss Strasse, Helen, GA 30545. For more information contact 706-878-1908 or visit helenchamber.com. The 6th Annual Blairsville Spring Arts & Crafts Festival 2013 Dates: May 25-26 Join us in celebration of the arts! Over 60 juried artists and craftsmen have exhibits around Town Square. Enjoy everything from paintings to pottery. Performances by Blairsville Dance School, classical and bluegrass musicians. There'll be homemade ice cream, burgers, BBQ and bake sale. Free. Sat 10-5pm, Sun 10-4pm. For more information contact: 706. 994. 4837, or visit downtownblairsville.com. 40th Annual Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race 2013 Dates: May 30- June 1 The South's oldest balloon event and the United States' only long distance hot air balloon race will begin (weather permitting) with a mass ascension of 30 bright and colorful hot air balloons, 7:00 am, Thursday. Balloonists compete in local events beginning Thursday evening around 6:00 pm through Saturday. 7:30am & 6pm each day (weather permitting) for about2 hours. 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 Balloon Headquarters: Helendorf Inn, 706. 878. 2271. NE Georgia 2013 Arts Tour 2013 Dates: June 7 - 9 This is a multi-county self-driving art tour through Habersham, Rabun, White and Towns Counties. Start anywhere you like. Plot your own course. Paintings, pottery, folk pottery, jewelry, glass, mixed media, metal, photography, handcrafted furniture, fiber, wood & even more, plus dining and lodging. Free. 10am – 5pm daily. For more information and maps go to artstoursaturday. com, or visit any Chamber of Commerce in the counties listed above.
10th Annual Blairsville Scottish Festival & Highland Games 2013 Dates: June 8 The stage is set and if you listen you will hear the sounds of bagpipes, drums and sounds of Scotland come alive as the marching bands get the Highland Games underway. There's the Taste of Scotland with Scottish food vendors. The Festival also features an entire area designated exclusively for free children’s events and activities with a fun and educational twist. 1 day $10/adults, 2 days $15/adults. Children 12 and under are free. 8am - 5pm. Meeks Park, Blairsville, GA. Visit our website www.blairsvillescottishfestival. org or call 706. 745. 5789.
Garden Accents • Plants • Windspinners • Fountains • Nursery
CATERED PERFECT Catering at your venue or one of ours! At Your Service O 770. 258. 8833 C 706. 300. 6505 April/May 2013
Appalachian Country
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Shop Local in JASPER! CONSIGNING WOMEN Gently Pre-loved ClothinG at a FraCtion oF the oriGinal PriCe
706. 253. 6905 29-B Cove road • JasPer
APRIL 6th Awakening of the Vines 11 am to 6 pm will have John Sosebee performing and vendors. Tickets are $20.00 and include 7 wine samples plus logo wine glass. Cartecay Vineyards 706. 698. 9463 cartecayvineyards.com
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Shop in CHEROKEE CouNTY!
Please support our local markets, communities and our chian ppalaCOUNTRY advertisers! CAY CARTEARDS’ VINEY ERN Let them H T U SO CHIAN APPALAAYS HOLID know you saw their ad in Appalachian Country Magazine. A SEASON
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Shop Local in Ellijay! Largest Yarn Shop in Northwest Georgia!
Tues-Wed, Fri 10-5 • Thurs 10-7 • Sat 10-4
706.698.KNIT
Advertising Deadline for the June/July/August issue is
www.stringsandstitches.com Email: stringsandstitches@ellijay.com
APRIL 26th!
April 6th & May 4th
First Saturdays on the Square, Downtown Ellijay! Enjoy a street fair atmosphere with shops & restaurants open until 9pm. First Saturday of every month.
Get your ad in early to be included in our
SUMMER FUN Issue!
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Shop Local in BLUE RIDGE! MAY 25-26 37th Annual Spring Arts in the Park Downtown Blue Ridge 10am to 5pm $5 Adults/ Children FREE. 706. 632. 2144 blueridgearts.net
April/May 2013
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Appalachian Country
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INSIDE k
ARTS
4/1 - 5/31 VanGogh’s Hideaway, Jasper, GA, for information regarding April/May events call 706-253-2312 4/5 16th Annual Writers’ Conference Meet & Greet. Blue Ridge Arts Assn. 5:00pm to 7:00pm. Open to Public. www.blueridgearts.net; 706632-2144 4/6 Latimer Hall Arts & Crafts Show Arts & Crafts, Jewelry, Pottery, Fiber Arts, Woodwork, Metal Arts. 9am-3pm, at Latimer Hall (103 Towne Lake Pkwy) in Downtown Woodstock. www. mainstreetcraftshow.com 4/20 – 4/21 Young Harris Spring Arts & Crafts Show. Time to kick off the outdoor season here! Sat. 10-5, Sunday 10-4. Mayors Park, Young Harris, GA 706-8976179 4/20 – 4/21 Jasper ArtFest, Arts & Crafts Festival Photography, metal work, glass and more! Sat. 10-5 & Sun. 10-4. 678-520-6648 www.jasperartfest.org 5/5 SAAG Spring Art Show Opening Reception The Southern Appalachian Artist Guild has 130+ artists and will showcase "Appalachian Renaissance." Opening reception 5pm. Through June 14th. Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association www. blueridgearts.net 706-632-2144 5/11 – 5/12 Mother’s Day Arts & Craft Show Brasstown Valley Resort. Young Harris, Saturday 10:005:00pm. Fine Arts & Crafts from Tri-State area, 706-3794606. www. yhc.edu 5/23 9th Blue Ridge Annual Arts and Crafts Sale 40 plus vendors selling 44
items such as pottery, wood carvings, quilts, canned goods and much more. Live entertainment and food. 9am to 5 pm Free admission, sponsored by Fannin County Explorer Post 401. For more info contact: fanninfire401@ yahoo.com or 706-964-6002.
5/25 – 5/26 37th Annual Spring Arts in the Park Downtown Blue Ridge. Memorial Day W/E - 10am to 5pm both days. $5 Adults/ Children FREE. 706-632-2144 www.blueridgearts.net 5/25 – 5/26 Blairsville’s Spring Arts & Crafts Festival Memorial Day Weekend, Sat 10-5 & Sun 10-4. Contact: Janet Hartman @ 706-994-4837
DINING & DANCE
4/1 –12/31 Crane Creek Vineyards. Tasting Room April through December, Tuesday-Saturday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm & Sunday 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm cranecreekvineyards.com 4/20 6th Annual Taste of Blue Ridge 5-8pm Sponsored by Blue Ridge Humane Society. Local restaurants to provide food. silent auction/ live auction, beer/wine & dancing. Tickets: $40 online; $45 at the door. For info call 706-632-5224 or visit website: www. humanesocietyofblueridge.org 5/17 - 5/18 Georgia Mountain EggFest 3rd Annual North Georgia Mountain EggFest Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Hiawassee, GA. For tasty details see website: www. mountainegg.com
EVENTS & SHOWS
4/1 Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad Daily, 11:00 am-3pm. Sundays 1:30-5:30pm. Adults: $27; Seniors: $22, Kids: $14.
Appalachian Country NORTH GEORGIA's guide to AREA
Arts | Dining & Dance | Events & Shows | Music | Theater
4/3 - 4/5 & 4/10 - 12 North Georgia Zoo & Petting Farm Spring “Bouncing Babies” Celebration. Check out what’s new at the Zoo. 706-348-7279 info@wildlifewonders.org
4/12-14 Spring Plein Aire Festival Blue Ridge, GA. Friday thru Sunday, 9-4pm. Artists come together and capture our area’s incredible beauty in Plein Aire! www.blueridgearts.net
4/4 – 4/7 Gauntlet Thunder in the Mountain Rally 1st Annual Rally at The Lodge at Copperhead. 706-835-7433 Register at GauntletGA.com
4/13- 4/14 Blue Ridge Mountain Adventure Race Saturday with a new Kids Race on Sunday, April 14th. New course with finish line at Mercier Orchards! New venues and scenery all the way! Lots of surprises. www.adventureracega.com
4/5 Woodstock Friday Night Live– '80s Night! First Friday of every month in Downtown Woodstock. Merchants stay open late, 6pm-9pm, and celebrate with a themed downtown wide festival. 80s Night will feature an 80s Night Costume Contest. Call 770-924-0406 4/6 Awakening of the Vines 11 am to 6 pm will have John Sosebee performing and vendors. Tickets are $20.00 and include 7 wine samples and logo wine glass and live music. Cartecay Vineyards. 706. 698. 9463 cartecayvineyards.com 4/6 & 5/4 First Saturdays on the Square, Downtown Ellijay Enjoy a street fair atmosphere with shops & restaurants open until 9pm. First Saturday of every month. 4/6 Rolling Thunder River Rafting Company McCaysville, GA Whitewater Rafting, Kayaking /Canoeing /Tubing. Reservations open April 1st. (800) 408-7238; 706-492-5720, rafting at rollingthunderriverco.com
4/13- 4/14 Bud Break Wine Highway Weekend Multiple vineyards from the mountains of Western North Carolina and Northern Georgia participating. Visit your first vineyard to get your pass and souvenir glass and your map to get started. www. mountainwinecountry.com/ 4/27 The Fast & Furriest 5K Run/Walk Downtown Ellijay on Saturday! You can walk/run the 5k or 1 Mile Dog Dash with your dog! This is a Grand Prix Series Race and a portion of the proceeds will go toward the GA SPCA. Please visit www. hiddenkeyproperties.com for more details! 5/1 U-Pick Strawberries. Mercier Orchards Blue Ridge GA. Take a tractor ride with family to pick your own locally grown strawberries 706-632-3411, www.mercier-orchards.com
4/6 Ocoee Rafting LLC Ducktown, TN Whitewater Rafting begins! 800-251-4800, www.ocoeerafting.com
5/3 Woodstock Friday Night Live! Enjoy our Tres de Mayo Party. 6-9pm in Downtown Woodstock. It’s South of the Border in South Cherokee! Merchants stay open 6-9pm. 770-924-0406
4/6 Southeastern Expeditions Whitewater Season Opens Clayton, GA, Contact Jennifer Perdue, 800-868-7238
5/10 & 5/17 Saturn: Jewel of the Heavens 3D Environment. 8:30pm Rollins Planetarium. Adults $3,
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Appalachian Country
Kids $2. Tickets available 30 minutes prior to show. www. yhc.edu 5/11 Georgia Mountain Classic Car Show Over 200 classic cars. Registration starts at 9:oo a.m. Door prizes and trophies for the top 25 trucks and trophies for the top 50 cars and specialty awards. Downtown Blue Ridge. Contact Annette Long 706-838-4701. 5/18 Cherokee Trail of Tears Memorial Service At the New Echota Cherokee Capital State Historic Site in Calhoun, GA. 2pm. May – July 2013 an exhibit observing the Cherokee Trail of Tears will be at the I-75 South Georgia Visitor Information Center near Ringgold. For info contact: Carmen E. Shuler at 706-5370067 or Site Manager David Gomez at 706-624-1321.
MUSIC
4/12 Chris Young in Concert Georgia Mountain Fairgounds. Friday, 7:00pm, Tickets: $33.00 Hiawassee, GA 706-896-4191 4/12, 19 & 26 Cosmic Concert: Led Zeppelin 7 & 8 pm Rollins Planetarium. Adults $3.00, Kids $2.00. Tickets available 30 minutes prior to show. www.yhc.edu 4/12 Paul Constantine Live Music. Country, soul, and R&B. Thursday, Friday & Saturday nights. The Lodge at Copperhead. 706-835-7433 4/13 Tribute to Elvis Showtime 7:00pm, Fannin High School. Benefitting Fannin County 4/16 Acapalooza Tues. 7:00-8:00pm, Young Harris, Glenn Auditorium, Choral Forays into jazz & acapella singing. $6.00 for Adults & $3.00 for students, children under 12 free. www.yhc.edu April/May 2013
Romantic River 4/19 John C. Campbell Folk School Friday Night Concert Series Mountain Fling. 4- piece singing & playing band.7PM, Admission FREE, donations welcome. Community Room, Keith House. www.folkschool.org 4/20 Matthew Croxton & Craig McGriff 12:30 - 4:30 Cartecay Vineyards. 706. 698. 9463 cartecayvineyards.com 4/25 McNary Live Concert Blue Ridge Brewery, Thursday Evening. Downtown Blue Ridge. 706-632-6611, www. blueridgebrewery.com 4/26 The Plowboys – Rockin’ Country. Perform cover songs from Luke Bryan to Jason Aldean, Lynyrd Skynyrd to the The Black Crowes. 7:00-10pm. The Lodge at Copperhead. 706-835-7433 4/27 Josh Gilbert Cartecay Vineyards. 706. 698. 9463 cartecayvineyards.com
4/27 Bankers Hours. Saturday 2:00pm show. Anderson Music Hall, Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Hiawassee, GA. www. georgiamountainfairgrounds. com 706-896-4191 5/2 Pickin' in Horseshoe Bend Park Every Thursday, 6:00 PM to dusk, May through September. Live music jams and pickin' on the banks of the Toccoa River at the Horseshoe Bend Park in McCaysville. Free. 706-632-7696 5/3 Live Music is Better Concert Series. Michelle Malone, Americana, Folk Rock & Blues. Tickets $20, 7:00pm. Blue Ridge Community Theater. 706-632-9223 5/4 Barefoot Boone Cartecay Vineyards. 706. 698. 9463 cartecayvineyards.com 5/11 The Over Yonder Boys Cartecay Vineyards. 706. 698. 9463 cartecayvineyards.com
5/11 Little Texas Concert Woodstock Concert Series Downtown Woodstock. Concerts begin 7:30pm. All concerts FREE. 770-9240406. No ticket needed. 5/25 Tim McNary Cartecay Vineyards. 706. 698. 9463 cartecayvineyards.com
THEATER
4/11-14, 4/18-21 & 4/25-28 Don’t Talk to the Actors Blue Ridge Community Theater. 7:30pm, Sundays 2:00pm.706-632-9223. www. blueridgecommunitytheater. com 4/19—21 & 4/26-28 Sleeping Beauty Woodstock, GA. Shop & Dine as you wait for your fun filled theatrical performance. Elm Street Cultural Village. For info on tickets & show times, visit: elmstreetarts.org, 678-494-4251
5/3 – 5/5 Lend Me A Tenor. Fun-filled musical comedy. Tater Patch Players. Call for more info: 706-253-2800 taterpatchplayers@gmail.com 5/16 – 6/2 A Bad Year for Tomatoes. Blue Ridge Community Theater. 7:30 pm Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays, 2:00pm Sundays.706-632-9223, blueridgecommunitytheater. com 5/17-18 & 5/24-25 Whose Line is it, Woodstock? Elm Street Cultural Village. For info on tickets & show times, visit: elmstreetarts.org, 678494-4251
Merry
Rose A Romantic Riverfront Cottage
LOCAL FARMER'S MARKETS A Secluded 2 Bedroom – 2 EVERY SATURDAY secluded BEGINNING merryrosecotta 2 bedroom MAY 25th
CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS FOR THE SUMMER ISSUE
DUE MAY 1st
hello@blueridgemediagroup.com
2 bath All amenities
706. 258. 3200
Lend Me A Tenor
May 3, 4, 10, 11, 17 & 18 7:30 pm May 5 & 12 2:00 pm $15 Adults, $14 Seniors and Students
April/May 2013
Appalachian Country
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ADVERTISER'S INDEX Antiques, Consignment & Thrift Consigning Women 706. 253. 6905 Design ReFinds 706. 946. 2030 Sycamore Crossing 706. 632. 3366
42 40 24
Arts & Events Big Canoe Tour of Homes Blue Ridge Community Theater Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Assoc. Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Tater Patch Players Van Goghs Hideaway
706. 706. 706. 877. 706. 404.
1396 9223 2144 8724 2800 5013
37 36 2 5 45 42
Automotive Ellijay Tire
706. 635. 2322
47
Banking United Community Bank
706. 635. 5411
10
Beauty, SPAS & MASSAGE Mary Kay, Cathy Crook Tea Trees Boutique Spa & Massage
770. 401. 0064 561. 889. 7499
42 43
Builders The Village at Oak Creek Trinity Custom Homes Witt Building Company
706. 273. 7139 706. 889. 2480
13 47 43
Catering Catered Perfect
770. 258. 8833
41
268. 632. 632. 413. 253. 580.
Cabin Rentals/Lodging #1 My Mountain Cabin Rentals 800. 844. 4939 Cowboy Lodge Merry Rose Cottage Stress Buster Vacation Rentals 706. 635. 3952 Clothing & Accessories ACE Hardware Consigning Women Daisy Boutique Jasper Drugs Seven Arrows
706. 706. 706. 706. 770.
635. 253. 253. 692. 591.
2236 6905 6996 6427 7045
Communities Covered Bridge Estates 706. 669. 4177 Gilmer County Chamber White County Chamber Old Town Woodstock 706. 669. 4177
40 41 46 3 42 40 44 41 10 13 36 42
Dental, EYE & Medical Services Bradley Eye Associates 706. 692. 2646 Jasper Family Dentistry 706. 692. 2646 Mountain Dental Associates 706. 515. 3500
40 42 43
Elevators Blue Moose Elevators
43
866. 797. 5438
Florists & GARDEN Artistic Design Creations Mountain Ridge Garden Shop Sycamore Crossing Home & Office Decor & design Chocolate Moose House and Garden Boutique Lakota Cove North Georgia Furniture Unique Kitchens Wrapsody in Blue
706. 692. 0044 706. 698. 2815 706. 632. 3366
42 41 24
706. 678. 770. 706. 706. 706.
1990 5800 3495 4202 6600 2700
40 42 29 24 42 43
Home Improvement ACE Hardware, Ellijay Outdoor Living Porch & Patio Witt Building Company
770. 635. 2236 404. 550. 0270 706. 889. 2480
3 3 43
Indoor/Outdoor Activities Big Canoe Tour of Homes Blue Ridge Scenic Railway North Georgia Zoo
706. 268. 1396 877. 413. 8724 706. 348. 7279
37 5 45
Jewelry, Gifts & Repair North Georgia Diamond Seven Arrows
706. 515. 1551 770. 591. 7045
10 41
Knitting Supplies Strings & Stitches
706. 698. 5648
43
Office Supplies One Source Business Products
706. 276. 8273
43
Pharmacies Jasper Drugs
706. 692. 6427
45
Photographers Alair Pet Photography
706. 692. 6427
41
265. 494. 893. 635. 253. 258.
Restaurants 61 Main 706. 253. 7289 Bumblebee's Cafe 706. 946. 2337 Charlie's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria 706. 635. 2205 Madeline's 706. 253. 1052 Millie's Diner 706. 253. 1052 Poole's Barbeque 706. 635. 4100 Shane's Rib Shack 706. 635. RIBS [7427]
42 7 7 40 7 7 7
SERVICES Mountain View Window Cleaning
706. 851. 8524
24
VENUES Mountain View Stables
706. 253. 6867
24
Wineries Cartecay Vineyards
706. 698. 9463
3
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Don't Miss This Chance to Advertise in north Georgia's Most Complete Guide to...
kSUMMER FUN
Where to Eat. Where to Shop. Where to Stay. We'll Have it All Right Here! Advertising close date is APRIL 26, 2013. Call 706. 492. 5070 or email hello@blueridgemediagroup.com
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Appalachian Country
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April/May 2013
Quality Homes Built on Your Land!!! Homes for Every Budget - From $67,000 to $425,000 The Prices are Unbelievable and So Is the Quality! Modify any plan to meet YOUR needs!
WWW.TRINITYCUSTOM.COM
OAKRIDGE III $160,000 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths 2,689 Square Feet Under Roof
THE CHATTAHOOCHEE $189,600 3 Bedrooms, 2½ Baths 2,706 Square Feet Under Roof
Full Brick Included
Full Brick Included
MILLEDGEVILLE $199,000 4 Bedrooms, 2½ Baths 3,452 Square Feet Under Roof
CENTERVILLE $152,500 4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths 2,612 Square Feet Under Roof
CHALET II $126,900 3 Bedrooms, 3½ Baths 1,924 Square Feet Under Roof
MAGNOLIA $149,000 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths 2,592 Square Feet Under Roof
ELLIJAY $158,800 3 Bedrooms, 2½ Baths 2,548 Square Feet Under Roof
MOUNTAINSIDE $109,200 3 Bedrooms, 2½ Baths 1,691 Square Feet Under Roof
COUNTRY CAPE $222,400 4 Bedrooms, 3½ Baths 4,,206 Square Feet Under Roof
CHEROKEE FARMHOUSE $127,500 4 Bedrooms, 3½ Baths 2,520 Square Feet Under Roof
NOBODY OFFERS YOU MORE HOME FOR YOUR HARD EARNED BUCKS $$ • 2x6 Exterior Walls • R-38 Ceiling Insulation • Granite Kitchen Counter Tops • Double Hung Low E Glass Windows • R-19 Insulated Walls and Floors • 5/8” Roof Decking
OVER
110 STOCK PLANS
Office Locations:
Ellijay 706-273-7139 • Dublin 478-272-4404 • Lavonia 706-356-1015 Augusta 706-855-5227 • Cullman, AL 256-737-5055 Montgomery, AL 334-290-4397 • Waynesville, NC 828-456-3309
GUARANT
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!
EED BUILDOU T
TIMES
Price does not include land improvements. Prices subject to change. Some of the homes shown have options not in the base price.
April/May 2013
Appalachian Country
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