Appalachian Country Living Magazine February-March 2017

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017

Visit HISTORIC

DOWNTOWN

BLUE RIDGE FIRE & ICE CHILI COOKOFF. SO HOT. IT’S COOL. FEB 18TH

EXPERIENCE A TASTE DEATH BY CHOCOLATE, OF HEAVEN AT VALENTINE’S RECIPES ENGELHEIM VINEYARDS TO DIE FOR

The Elegance of Traditional Craftsman Luxury Meets the Comfort of Contemporary Design at Covered Bridge Estates in Ellijay, GA. A tranquil, gated, mountain community less than an hour north of Atlanta!

Home Sites Starting in the Low 30's & Homes in the Mid 250’s Find your ideal mountain home, vacation retreat or retirement destination at Covered Bridge Estates, where nature makes it beautiful and we make it home.

Covered Bridge Estates is proud to introduce the addition of Contemporary Craftsman Homes. Residents can enjoy the rustic ambiance of traditional mountain communities that include lush landscapes, views of wildlife and more while living in a modern oasis that embraces contemporary features like clean, open spaces, stainless steel, marble stone finishes and sleek minimalistic designs. Covered Bridge Estates is just a stone’s throw away from Carter’s Lake, historic downtown Ellijay and more.

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

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

WELCOMEb TO AC LIVING MAGAZINE

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Ahhhhh. The Holidays– Fabulous, Frantic, and Finally Over! Once again this year my Mom and her dog Natalie, and my brother joined me in my little cabin for the festivities. Being that Xmas and New Year’s were on consecutive weekends- everyone stayed for both. What could go wrong with three crazy family members and three dogs in a one-bedroom cabin for a week? Luckily, not too much. In the end we only had three dogs fights over new toys and two family squabbles- close, but no punches thrown. Yes- family love is what its all about! And I love my family dearly (XXOO)– but Maxine, Billy and I are happy to get back into our regular groove.

January finds us recuperating from the holidays, and then February seems to stretch on forever while we wait for spring. We’ve been extremely fortunate to have a very mild winter– so far– let’s keep our fingers crossed. This month we feature a sure-fire winter-buster: The Fire and Ice Chili Cook Off in Historic Downtown Blue Ridge. Originally founded to help shake of those winter blues, Fire & Ice serves up a smokin’ hot chili competition alongside beautiful ice sculptures displayed throughout town. Taste the chili and then stroll through town– where you’ll find boutiques, art galleries, antiques, microbreweries and plenty of dining options. What a way to spend a weekend in the mountains.

For a different vibe, take a trip to one of our local wineries. In this issue we have family-owned and operated Engelheim Vineyards in Ellijay. A beautiful drive through the countryside brings you to their vineyard and lovely tasting room. With a nod to their German heritage, the Engels have created a very special place where there’s surely a vintage to please everyone. Engelheim Vineyards is open 7 days a week- so bring your Valentine, or the whole gang, for a lovely special day.

The month of March will fly by with several St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations.

St. PETrick’s Day Parade, Saturday March 18th in Ellijay is one for the dogs– and cats, pigs, goats, donkeys, whatever. Starting at 1pm, the parade truly is a gem. In Blue Ridge– the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Noon- Saturday March 18, is mostly for people (but Maxine & Billy will be there!). Sponsored by The Boro Inn & Irish Pub–the whole town rolls out the green carpet for a fun-filled day of music, food and shenanigans.

Right around the corner comes spring, yay! Our April/May issue is of course, “Everything Spring,” getting your cabins, landscaping and outdoor spaces ready for the summer season. April/May is also our Spring & Summer Festival Preview- with the most complete listing of Festivals- surely one issue that you don’t want to miss. Slainte!

See y’all out and about–

PUBLISHER | EDITOR IN CHIEF Alice Sexton GARDEN| LANDSCAPE EDITOR Kevin Johnson | growitgreen@etcmail.com HISTORY EDITOR Leslie Barker Thomas | PresHist@etcmail.com OUTDOOR ADVENTURE EDITOR Greg Dunn | trainingdunnright@gmail.com STYLE & DESIGN EDITOR Cindy Trimble | cindy@studiotrimble.com ADVERTISING SALES NORTH Blue Ridge, Blairsville, Young Harris & Hiawassee, GA Murphy, Andrews, Brasstown & Hayesville, NC Angela Huffstetler 706. 851. 8190 | adswithangela@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES SOUTH Ellijay, Talking Rock, Jasper, Ball Ground, Canton & Woodstock, GA Tonia Sheppard 404. 784. 0620 | adswithtonia@gmail.com ALL INQUIRIES Appalachian Country Living 706. 492. 5070 | alice@blueridgemediagroup.com LAYOUT/DESIGN Alice Sexton Blue Ridge Media Group 706. 492. 5070 | alice@blueridgemediagroup.com DISTRIBUTION Arthur Pope Publication Marketing & Distribution, Inc. 770. 807. 3043 | publicationsinc@att.net CONTRIBUTORS Stuart Borders, Blue Ridge Business Association, Emily Engel, Gary Engel, Fannin County Chamber of Commerce, Pam Fink, Karen Graham, Ray Higgenbotham, Everett Irvine, Cesar Martinez, Cindy Trimble, Maxine & Billy Zoom

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING MAGAZINE PO Box 1250, Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706. 492. 5070 hello@blueridgemediagroup.com www.aclivingmagazine.com

Left: Maxine after opening her toys- which are always wrapped in tissue. Not surprising that the dogs know which gifts are theirs.

Right: Natalie and Billy posing as “good dogs.”

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

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017

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305 South Main Street • Ellijay, GA 30540 706. 635. 2236 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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CONTENTS 7

11

Restaurant Spotlight, Cabin Coffee Co. The Latest Hot Spot in Blairsville. Fresh Roasted Gourmet Coffee Everyday

11 Engelheim Vineyards

Located in Ellijay, Experience a Taste of Heaven at Engelheim Vineyards

15 Time to Treat Those Hemlocks Landscape & Garden Editor Kevin Johnson Gives Us an Update

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16

Fire & Ice Chili Cook-Off February 18th. So Hot. It’s Cool.

Visit Historic Downtown Blue Ridge, Cute, Quaint and Friendly

22 Death By Chocolate

Yes. It’s Perfectly Acceptable to Eat Chocolate for Dinner

26 February/March Happenings

Your Guide to Art, Events, Kid’s Stuff, Music, Theater and Beer & Wine Tastings

ON THE COVER WWW.ACLIV INGMAGA ZINE.COM | FEBRUA RY/MARC H 2017

ViHsISitTNOTORWICN DOW

BLUE RIDGE

E CHILI FIRE & IC SO HOT. COOKOFF. . FEB 18TH IT’S COOL

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E, CHOCOLAT DEATH BY E’S RECIPES E CE A TAST VALENTIN R EXPERIEN AT FO E DI EN TO S OF HEAV VINEYARD ENGELHEIM

A visit to Blue Ridge any time of year is a great way to escape to the mountains. Just 90 minutes north of Atlanta and a day’s drive from five Southeastern states, Blue Ridge, GA is nestled at the base of the Appalachian Mountains. Come in from an outdoor adventure to savor a fine dining experience or micro brewery beer and burgers. Enjoy boutique shopping, antiquing and gallery hopping. Historic Downtown Blue Ridge has a sophisticated feel, with a friendliness that makes everyone feel welcome.

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017

AC LIVING RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT

Dine on the River

CABIN COFFEE DOWNTOWN BLAIRSVILLE

Fresh Roasted Coffee Everyday I-FI FREE W

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

Featuring Fresh Local Trout and Certified Black Angus Steaks Wednesday thru Sunday 11:30am - 9:00pm Fri & Sat ‘til 9:30pm

706.632.7891

8055 Aska Road Blue Ridge, GA 30513

www.ToccoaRiversideRestaurant.com

44A Town Square Blairsville, GA 30512

706. 745. 0073

CabinCoffeeCompany.com Like us on FB / CabinCoffeeBlairsville

• PIZZA • SUBS • STEAK • SEAFOOD • DESSERT • FULL BAR Mon-Thurs 11am-9pm Fri 11am-10pm Sat 11:30-10pm Sun Closed

Like us on Facebook!

15 West Cross Street/Hwy. 515 East Ellijay, Georgia 30540

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

COL. POOLE’S Georgia Bar-B-Q

PO Box 727 East Ellijay, GA 30539 706. 635. 4100 Oscar and Edna Poole Darvin Poole

www.poolesbarbq.com FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017

Cabin Coffee Co., Blairsville, GA

Welcome to Cabin Coffee where “creating and sustaining a warm and inviting environment while providing the highest quality products and service” is their mission. Serving fresh roasted gourmet coffee everyday, you can enjoy your favorite morning cup or grab a latte for the road.

Wayne and Judy Jolley fell in love with the mountains of North Georgia several years ago, and began making frequent trips to the area. They moved from Ohio to the Atlanta area in 2009, and by 2012 they had bought a weekend cabin in Blairsville. Wayne has an entrepreneurial spirit and dreamt of owning his own business for many years. Judy grew up working in restaurants and has long had the idea that she would love to serve the community in a local coffee shop atmosphere. With those ideas floating around, Judy & Wayne went to visit Judy’s mom in Clear Lake, Iowa. A visit to Clear Lake always includes a stop at Cabin Coffee, and this time around Judy said, “Maybe we should sit down and talk to the owners…” From that first meeting, Wayne & Judy caught the Cabin Coffee fever, and “the rest is history.” Cabin Coffee has quickly become a favorite local place to gather or to just make a quick stop for an excellent cup of coffee on the way to work.

Located on the Square in Historic Downtown Blairsville, Cabin Coffee is open Monday through Saturday from 7:00am to 4:30pm.

(During winter, Saturday hours are 8:00 to 4:00). In addition to gourmet coffee that is roasted on site at the restaurant, they offer delicious breakfast, lunch and anytime snack options. Have a big group?

Give them a call to reserve the meeting room. And.... Just Be Happy and Have Fun at Cabin Coffee! ACLM Fresh Roasted Coffee Everyday in a Warm Inviting Environment.

Breakfast - Breakfast Sandwiches, Pastries, Cinnamon Rolls, Bagels and of course, Fresh Roasted Coffee Lunch - Soup, Salad, Sandwiches Drinks - Coffee, Mocha, Latte, Cappuccino, Frappe, Fruit Smoothies Visit Cabin Coffee Co. 44A Town Square Blairsville, GA 30512 706-745-0073 • Free Wi-Fi • Cabincoffeecompany.com Open Monday - Saturday 7:00 am to 4:30 pm Winter: Saturday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

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James H. Brown and Associates, LLC Attorney at Law

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Call Me to Help You With the Many Difficult Questions Regarding:

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Scott Morris, Mortgage Originator P 706-635-5411 D 706-697-7304 E scott_morris@ucbi.com NMLS# 501424

Renee Burgess, Mortgage Originator P 706-253-9393 D 706-299-5711 E renee_burgess@ucbi.com NMLS# 501421

House Calls and No Charge Initial Consultation 770.355.9714 • 706.268.1150 JamesBrownLaw@tds.net

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

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Complementing the exciting new neighborhoods, Lake Arrowhead has added even more great new amenities like the Lakeside Park and Outdoor Wellness Fitness Center. There is always something new to see. REDISCOVER LIVING at LAKE ARROWHEAD.

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017

AC LIVING STYLE & DESIGN

The New Rustic Home Style & Design Editor Cindy Trimble Talks About Technology and The New Rustic Home

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Rustic Mountain Homes have experienced a huge shift in design! Many think of a rustic mountain home as a log or timber frame home in the woods. That’s what Daniel Boone and our forefathers lived in! Their homes were simple, there were few “creature comforts” incorporated that our generation is addicted to.

We love being in the woods, but there are some things, some “creature comforts” we can’t be without! We want our cappuccino in the morning which we get from our Italian coffee machine built into the wall. Our floors are heated with radiant heat systems so our feet stay warm. Our homes and outdoor areas are filled with music from our state of the art surround sound systems.

Bathrooms include water closets with $10,000 toilets that do everything for you except..., well you have to do that! Kitchens have state of the art designs with appliances and features Martha Stewart would love. And our indoor and outdoor entertainment spaces run rival to a resort. Many homes have special dog rooms with a “dog wash” for Fido. Remember when we didn’t have TV’s, cell phones or microwaves?

Was it really that long ago?

Mountain homes have been popular for years as second or vacation homes. But the babyboomers are moving in droves to their mountain homes full time. With this shift, the rustic home has taken on a new personality. The really rustic details have been redefined, they are much cleaner, more refined, more “Modern Rustic.”

The abundance of solid wood interior with brown and gray color schemes (wood’s inherent colors) has been diluted with a multitude of colors, addition of other materials like sheetrock, concrete and even steel. Solid wood walls, (the main character of a true log house) have been FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017

replaced with hybrid construction of traditional stud walls filled with foam insulation, covered with a multitude of finish materials. This allows for total flexibility of integration of electrical, plumbing, HVAC and other required systems that are hidden in our walls, floors and ceilings that support our creature comforts.

Yes, technology is the huge driving force behind the design of the new rustic home. We are right in the middle of the “Technology Revolution” and upgrades happen at warp speed.

Lighting a fire happens with the push of a button, not by rubbing together sticks or lighting a match. Hot water is instant, we don’t have to light a fire to boil water or wait for 10 minutes for the hot water to travel our pipes.

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

The sound and image quality from our great room TV is coming close to a Dolby IMAX theater experience. We no longer have land lines in our houses – we are all permanently attached to our “communicator” I-Phones. And if you happen to really live deep in the woods where there is minimal cell service, don’t worry – there are “home cellular boosters” to fix that. ACLM Cindy Trimble, ASID is owner of StudioTrimble, Inc. based in Blue Ridge. She is NCIDQ certified and a Georgia Registered Interior Designer. www.studiotrimble.com www.thenewrustic.com

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Tasting Room

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1901 Appalachian Hwy Blue Ridge, GA

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FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017

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Experience a Taste of Heaven at

Engelheim Vineyards

WORDS: RAY HIGGENBOTHAM PHOTOS: ENGELHEIM VINEYARDS

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North Georgia has become one of the most popular destinations to visit for folks who live and work in Atlanta or the greater metropolitan area. With a slew of outdoor activities, unique shopping opportunities and a laid-back lifestyle that can be infectious, it’s no wonder that cities like Ellijay come to mind when the term “getaway vacation” is brought up.

While cabin rentals and zip-line adventures are as popular as ever, local vineyards have quickly gained a loyal following by offering tours of their property, weekly events and the chance to try award-winning wines that can only be found in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.

Travel just over an hour north of Atlanta into Ellijay, Georgia, and you’ll find Engelheim Vineyards: a one-of-a-kind winery owned and operated by Gary and Jan Engel and their family.

Originally born in South Alabama, Gary is a retired army officer of 28 years who has spent time in Iraq and Kuwait. It was during those years as an Army Officer that Colonel Engel FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017

began formulating the idea of opening a winery and growing grapes.

“While I was in the army, I was stationed in places where I saw grapes grow, and I thought it was fascinating. My mother used to make wine growing up, and I just decided I wanted to grow grapes. So, I retired, and Jan, my wife, said OK,” said Engel.

German for “Angel Home,” the land upon which Engelheim Vineyards sits was purchased in 2007, with the first vines planted in 2009.

Their first vintage was produced in 2011, and since that time Engelheim has seen growth and

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

success with every subsequent year.

This vineyard, tasting room, and winery are truly a family-operated business. Jan, an international flight attendant for American Airlines, often works in various aspects of the operation when not on travel. Emily, their youngest daughter also helps in the tasting room and manages many aspects of the business especially with social media marketing and digital design work. She is also a full time senior at Georgia State University. The other two children, Katie and William, come and assist although they currently reside in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The passion that the Engel family puts into making the vineyard special is evident from the moment you step foot on their property: German architecture and design are used in abundance at Engelheim Vineyards, a tribute to the family heritage. They will readily tell you that the business is a Christ-centered operation where we attempt to give God glory in all we do. God makes great wine and touches hearts at Engelheim. They also strive to honor the WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

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BLUE RIDGE COMMUNITY THEATER PRESENTS

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2591 EAST 1ST STREET • BLUE RIDGE, GA

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706. 632. 9223

Vendors • Contests • Live Music

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FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017

AC LIVING LOCAL BUSINESS PROFILE

Cherokee Nation who originally occupied the land that the vineyard sits on.

Once you arrive at Engelheim Vineyards, there are plenty of sights to see and activities to do. One of the most popular attractions, of course, is their wine tasting room where guests can try an assortment of wines. Some of these wines have won major awards made from grapes that are estate grown on the property and just feet from where you’re standing.

Not familiar with wine? Don’t sweat it, as you’re sure to find something that you’ll like at Engelheim Vineyards.

“It doesn’t matter what you know as far as tasting wine,” said Engel when asked about newcomers.

“We have had lots of people come in and say they don’t like wine. Well, maybe you haven’t tasted the one that you would like. Never say never, because you’d be surprised at what you might like. You don’t have to be an expert on wines when you arrive, because we’ll walk you through your tasting. We’ve got a trained staff that will ask you questions about what you do like, and will try to steer you in a direction to find something that you will enjoy.”

Engelheim Vineyards also hosts a number of FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017

different events for guests to enjoy, which often change depending on the season: “We have live music most of the time on Saturdays and Sundays – other times we have dinners, tapas events, even painting events where people will paint and drink a little wine.

People can have picnics; get a glass or bottle of wine, sit out in the vineyard and have a picnic with their family,” said Engel. They also host numerous weddings, rehearsal dinners, and have an excellent event coordinator on staff.

Engelheim Vineyards holds true to the laidback lifestyle and atmosphere that people love so much about visiting the southern Appalachians; in fact, children and furry family members are welcome at the vineyard as well.

“We are a family-friendly place; we love for little ones to come here, and people can bring their dogs if their dogs are friendly and are kept on a leash,” said Engel.

The goal of the Engel family is for each guest to “experience a taste of heaven,” as he puts it, whether they swing by for a quick tasting, spend an afternoon touring the vineyard, or enjoy a romantic Valentine’s Day date with that special someone. Wine tastings are $10 and include any 5 wines from the wine list featuring a variety

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

of dry and sweet, red and white wines. No reservations are required except for tours.

Bring your friends, family and loved ones the next time you’re in town, and find out what makes Engelheim Vineyards so heavenly! ACLM For more information: Engelheim Vineyards 127 Lakeview Road Ellijay, GA 30540 770-635-WINE sales@engelheim.com Engelheim.com Tasting Room Hours: 7 days a week from 12:30-6 pm.

Vineyard & Winery Tours: Tour the vineyard and winery with the owner (Gary Engel). Tour lasts approximately 45 mins to an hour.

Monday, Thursday, and Friday: By Appointment Only Saturday and Sunday: We conduct 1 tour, usually around 3 pm. Please call ahead on day of tour to check for availability.

Group discounts available.

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Exquisite Specialty Yarns of all Fiber Types in Basics to Novelty

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Blue Ridge | Blairsville | Ellijay

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

Call Pete Hall

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

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391 N. Main Street • Jasper, GA

706. 897. 1231

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017

AC LIVING LANDSCAPE & GARDEN

Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Landscape & Garden Editor Kevin Johnson Warns Us About the Resurgence of the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid

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The Hemlock Woolly Adelgid, a non-native invasive insect, was first discovered in Georgia in 2003. By 2009 it had spread to many counties across north Georgia and my company, Green Leaf Lawn and Ornamental, was the first in Georgia offering treatment for Hemlock Woolly Adelgid. I had become familiar with the treatment of Woolly Adelgid while serving as Grounds Supervisor at Young Harris College and I’ve now been chasing this insect around north Georgia and North Carolina for well over a decade. In the past I’ve written articles describing specific details about Woolly Adelgid and its impact on our environment. However, this time I thought I would share general information about my experiences in battling this insect over the last 10+ years, and what I see happening today to our Hemlock Trees.

Several years ago a meeting was held to gather and share information about the Woolly Adelgid and the relevant treatments. The Georgia Forest Service, Green Leaf Lawn and Ornamental and other organizations were there along with concerned property owners. At that time, it was estimated by some, that within 3-5 years of exposure to Woolly Adelgid that the Hemlock would die. It was also though that treatments with 75% Imidacloprid (standard ground treatment) would only last around 3 or so years. These were speculations based on the information available at the time. Since then, my experience has been a little different than those predictions.

Exposure. Do untreated Hemlocks die in three years? While Hemlocks don’t typically die in as little as three to five years as some predicted, they do become decimated after several years of exposure. I continue to get called onto properties that have never been treated for Woolly Adelgid. While untreated Hemlocks may still be alive at this stage in the game, in many cases they are severely compromised. Some will have as little as 5-10% of their needles left. I looked at a property last year that I estimate had 100 untreated Hemlocks on it. I chose to treat FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017

Above: Untreated Hemlock forest with severe Woolly Adelgid devastation.

Below: Woolly Adlegid infestation.

Have Your Hemlocks Inspected & Treated Call Kevin Johnson and Green Leaf Ornamental

866. 883. 2420 only the 15 trees that I thought I could recover.

It’s a sad situation for untreated Hemlocks.

Treatment. How about length of control?

Typically, a professional treatment of your Hemlocks should last roughly a minimum of five years. I’ve treated many properties where the treatment has lasted six or more years. Not a bad deal considering the original prediction was at a minimum three years. Not many lawn or tree applications can offer that kind of control.

Going Forward. What happens even if Hemlocks have been treated? Five years after treatment, what eventually happens, is that the insect is reintroduced to the Hemlock trees and they become infested all over again. Therefore,

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even if you had your trees treated five years ago, it is imperative that you have your Hemlocks inspected– and then be prepared to have them treated again. Sadly, the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid is still with us, and unfortunately, will be here for years to come. ACLM Kevin Johnson is the owner of Green Leaf Lawn and Ornamental, LLC, based in Blue Ridge. For more information about the devastating hemlock woolly adelgid and treatment options, Kevin can be reached toll free at 866. 883. 2420 or by email at growitgreen@etcmail.com.

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

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7th Annual Fire and Ice Chili Cook-Off will happen come rain, snow or shine February 18, 2017, downtown Blue Ridge, Ga so mark your calendars for all the fun.

There will be strolling characters, live music, ice sculptures, ice carving demonstrations and amazing chili!

Buy a $10 Tasting Card to sample the competition and vote for the “People’s Choice Award.”

An amazing display of individual and unique ice sculptures from the award winning, National Ice Carving Champion “Rock on Ice” including several ice carving demonstrations.

The Blue Ridge Community Theater will present a special appearance from the cast of Beauty and the Beast and Star Wars. Fans will be able to meet Belle, the Beast, and other cast members from the beloved story and later in the day they will have the chance to meet Darth Vader, Chewbacca and other Star Wars friends!

WORDS: BLUE RIDGE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION PHOTOS: EVERETT IRVINE, FANNIN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, BRBA

VISIT HISTORIC DOW

Event Fees and Schedule: Contestants begin cooking at 8:30 am Judging starts at noon Event is open to the public from noon to 4 pm Chili tasting is from Noon to 2:00 pm Awards ceremony begins at 3 pm Live music from noon to 4 pm Tasting Cards are $10 and will be sold from noon to 1:30 and tasting is from noon to 2 pm Beer and Wine tickets are $5 16

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WNTOWN BLUE RIDGE | FIRE & ICE | SO HOT. IT’S COOL!

Great Pizza, Cold Beer, Big Screen TV Pasta, Stromboli, Calzone, Salads, Wings All Cooked to Order

“Outdoor Wear with Indoor Style” 661 E Main Street | Blue Ridge, GA

706. 632. 3991

Full Bar & Menu in the Safehouse Lounge (Adults Only) Book a Special Event or Party in Our New Safehouse Lounge or Overlook Room The Hampton Square 11 Mountain Street | Blue Ridge, GA

706. 632. 6503/6504 www.bluejeansblueridge.com

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SHOP ON LINE

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A visit to Blue Ridge any time of year is a great way to escape to the mountains. Just 90 minutes north of Atlanta and a day’s drive from five Southeastern states, Blue Ridge, GA is nestled at the base of the Appalachian Mountains. Historic downtown Blue Ridge is a lively quaint town where you can come in from an outdoor adventure to savor a fine dining experience or micro brewery beer and burgers.

Visitors can also enjoy boutique shopping, antiquing and gallery hopping. Historic Downtown Blue Ridge has a sophisticated and cultural feel, with a friendliness that makes everyone feel welcome.

Blue Jeans Pizza & Pasta Factory, The Safehouse Lounge and The Overlook Room With great hand-made pizza, cold beer and a big screen TV, Blue Jeans Pizza & Pasta Factory serves up quality food and friendly service in a casual atmosphere. Far from fast food- each dish is cooked to order- so expect longer wait times on the weekends. Choose from appetizers, wings, salads, stromboli, calzones, burgers, pasta and pizza! Enjoy draft and bottled beer, local craft beer, wine and sangria. Full bar and menu in the Safehouse Lounge (adults only.) Book a special event in the Safehouse Lounge or the Overlook Room.

Blue Jeans Pizza and Pasta, The Hampton Bldg.

11 Mountain Street, Blue Ridge GA 30513 706.632. 6503/6504 www.bluejeansblueridge.com Hours: Monday – Saturday 11:00am – 9:00pm

Blue Ridge Adventure Wear Blue Ridge Adventure Wear is the lifestyle clothing store for the mountains.

Located next to the train depot in the heart of downtown Blue Ridge, GA, we have served your clothing needs for more than a decade.

We invite you to visit us at our friendly store in downtown Blue Ridge, Georgia where you will find a large selection of clothing, including Life is Good, Columbia Sportswear, Woolrich, ExOfficio, Kavu, Royal Robbins and Toad & Co. Whether you are going hiking or just need a pair of casual yet comfortable shoes for strolling our beautiful little town, come check out our footwear lines of Acorn, Keen, Merrell, Teva, and Sanuk shoes. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Blue Ridge Adventure Wear 661 East Main Street Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706. 632. 3991 www.blueridgeadventurewear.com Hours: Mon-Thurs: 10am to 5 or 6pm Fri & Sat: 10am to 7 or 8pm Sun: 11am to 5 or 6pm Blue Ridge Barber Shop Located in the Hampton Square Building below Blue Jeans Pizza, Blue Ridge Barber Shop in Blue Ridge, GA is the newest secret in providing quality haircuts and barber services for gentlemen of all ages. Our trained barbers will do their best to make you feel at home when you come to Blue Ridge Barber Shop. Our goal is to make each visit a stress-free and relaxing experience. With our top notch facility and properly trained staff, we know that gentlemen like you want to be taken care of and that is

what we do best! Butch Morton, Master Barber, has been cutting hair for more than 40 years. He has participated in numerous competition events over the years having won The Georgia State Championship one time and The Southeastern Open event two times. He has also placed second several times and once finished with a third place showing. Butch has also trained other Barbers, as well as, judged many competition events in the California Concepts Style Cutting.

Blue Ridge Barber Shop The Hampton Building 11 Mountain Street Suite #8 Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706. 632. 1114 www.blueridgebarbers.com Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00am – 6:00pm Saturday 8:00am – 3:00pm 3rd Annual Blue Ridge Mountains Wine & Jazz Festival Saturday May 6th 3-9 pm. Kharisma Entertainment and Teatrees Boutique Spa are bringing hot jazz, great wines, fine art, and delicious cuisine, to beautiful Blue Ridge, GA. Come sample a diversity of wines, while enjoying delicious food, browse the many talented vendors and listen to top jazz performers in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Purchase wine by the glass or bottle and bring your blanket and lawn chairs to relax in while listening to great music. The focus of the Blue Ridge Mountains Wine & Jazz Festival is to provide financial support and opportunities for students of jazz music.

For tickets and info visit: http://blueridgewineandjazz.com/

VISIT HISTORIC DOWNTOWN BLUE RIDGE | WINTER, SUM Rustic American Bar & Grill Regional & Seasonal Fare

Gates open at 2 pm • Music from 3-9 pm Come listen to top Jazz performers and sample a diversity of wine and delicious food, including those being made locally in the North Georgia Mountains Region.

Your attendance will help support Jazz Music Education.

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MON–THURS 4pm–11:30pm | FRI–SAT 11:30am–11:30pm SUN 12:30pm–11:30pm

706. 258. 2539

733 EAST MAIN STREET, BLUE RIDGE, GA 30513

chestersblueridge.com

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Chester Brunnenmeyer’s Bar & Grill Chester’s is a rustic American bar and grill located on the corner of East Main and Depot Street in beautiful, historic downtown Blue Ridge, Georgia. The bar and grill has a modern rustic feel and features high quality food, an impressive wine list, signature cocktails, and regionally crafted beer. Both food and drink menus have many offerings from the southeastern region, as well as other departures from the ordinary and seasonal selections.

Chester Brunnenmeyer’s Bar & Grill Phone 733 East Main Street Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706. 258. 2539 chestersblueridge.com Hours: Mon–Th 4:00pm, Fri-Sat 11:30am, Sunday 12:30pm.

Design Refind Design Re-Find is a home furnishings consignment store located at 146 Depot Street in Blue Ridge. It was started in 2011 and is now in its fifth year of providing high quality furnishings to area residents and is a valuable source for cabin and traditional home décor.

We also sell unique creations by area artists, from custom built furniture, paintings, barnwood frames, craftsman created mirrors and pottery pieces. Come to our store located across the street from Blue Ridge City Hall and discover a treasure trove of fabulous items for your home or weekend cabin, at great prices and with fantastic service by our friendly staff of locals.

Design Re-Find Inc. 146 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706. 946. 2031 www.designrefind.com

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Blue Ridge, GA

Douglas Inn Our affordable accommodations offer the comforts of home with our spacious suites featuring a private bedroom with one king bed, fully amennatized kitchen and large living room. For larger parties we can adjoin a Suite to a double queen room. That gives you 2 bathrooms, 3 TV’s, & 3 beds. When combined we can accommodate up 6-8 individuals comfortably. For those travelers who just need a place to rest their head, our single units with 2 queen beds will fit you perfectly. We live on site to ensure all aspects of our business can be properly taken care of in order to meet our guest expectations. We offer 25 units in a quiet location on a ridge overlooking Blue Ridge,

just a mile or less from downtown. Dog friendly!

Douglas Inn & Suites 1192 Windy Ridge Road Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706. 258. 3600 www.douglasinnblueridge.com Gartrell Gallery and Studios Come see this hidden gem of downtown Blue Ridge. You will find all types, sizes and price ranges of beautiful, hand-created works of art — there is something for everyone here. Our gallery is a beautiful space that features artists from near and far. We offer art classes, wine tastings, artist openings, special events and much, much more. The unique, elegantly lighted

MER SPRING & FALL, BLUE RIDGE IS SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL...

• King Suites w/ Full Kitchen • Double Queen Rooms w/ Microwave & Fridge • Complimentary Continental Breakfast • Pet Friendly • Free WiFi • Guest Laundry • Outdoor Pool Open May – Sept Facebook “f ” Logo

146 Depot Street, Suite 1 Blue Ridge, GA 30513 Across from City Hall

706.258.3600

706.946.2031

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1192 Windy Ridge Rd. Blue Ridge, GA 30513

www.douglasinnblueridge.com

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A Great Place to Stay in Blue Ridge!

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STUDIOS

Art Classes Events

Weddings Luncheons Parties Wed: 11am - 5pm Thu, Fri & Sat 11am - Late Sun: 12pm - 5pm 733 East Main Street Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706-258-2702 gartrellgallery.com

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GOODSPEED ARCHITECTS, INC. Po Box 145, Blue Ridge, GA 30513 C: 813.480.5519 O: 706.838.0331 www.goodspeed-architects.com

East Main Street Blue Ridge, GA and appointed gallery is also available for your special event; anything from a small meeting or luncheon to a grand party of wedding! So come see this special place that has become the talk of the town!

Gartrell Gallery and Studios 733 East Main Street Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706. 258. 2702 gartrellgallery.com GOODSPEED ARCHITECTS Inc. GOODSPEED ARCHITECTS, INC. offers personal “hands on” Professional Quality Design Solutions for clients to ensure value and superior construction of their facilities, with maintenance and liability concerns realized, through “Timeless Design” and a

“Client First” approach. Having over 40 years of professional architectural design experience, David Goodspeed, AIA opened GOODSPEED ARCHITECTS, INC. for business in January 2013 in Fannin County, Georgia. This design practice began with a goal to provide Professional Architectural and Interior Design Services for clients in North Georgia and surrounding areas. The focus market for this practice is tailored for small to medium sized projects in the Commercial, Retail, Corporate, and Residential markets. Additionally, GAI provides design services to meet the requirements of K-12 + University Education, Liturgical, Healthcare, Hospitality and Building Envelope + Moisture design needs.

Mountain Top Wellness Retreats For several years these personal retreat packages have been offered for those who wish to “run away” to a mountain retreat surrounded by woods, mountain views, hiking trails. Part of the nurturing package includes personalized energy therapy sessions to clear “whatever ails you”.

Each participant provides two extensive precoaching wellness assessment histories prior to arriving and then receives one to two acupuncture treatments (no needles) during the retreat, two energy therapy coaching support sessions per day with a rest in-between for lunch, nap, meditation, walk in the woods, or hot-tub soak. E-mail support is provided before and after the retreat. This program supports your deep healing on all levels as you rejuvenate in the beautiful southern Appalachian Mountain setting around Mineral Bluff, GA, getting away from the stresses of life at home. Transportation, room & board are not included.

Mountain View Retreats Box 305 Mineral Bluff, GA 30559 706. 374. 6460 www.arielagroup.com Qinti - The Peruvian Store QINTI means hummingbird in Quechua. (... Legends say that hummingbirds float free of time carrying our hopes for love, joy and celebration.) We are a Peruvian Shop, and through QINTI, our aim is to provide you with

VISIT HISTORIC DOWNTOWN BLUE RIDGE | FOR PEOPLE

Mountain Top Wellness Retreats Give yourself this therapeutic, restorative gift around a vacation, business trip, or anytime you are in the mountains... to support your health and peace of mind.

531 East Main Street | Downtown Blue Ridge Highest quality craftsmanship in rich materials: ❖ Fine Sterling Silver Jewelry ❖ Pima Cotton Hand-Woven Shawls ❖ Beautifully Designed Handbags ❖ Luxurious Baby Alpaca Sweaters & Accessories for Him & Her

– Anne Merkel, Ph.D., ND – Inspires and Guides Your

Body-Mind-Spirit Health & Success 1 - 4 Day Personalized Packages Near Blue Ridge, GA

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Reserve in Advance for Desired Dates D A V I D G O O D S P E E D , A I A PO BOX 145 . BLUE RIDGE . GEORGIA . 30513 O: 706.838.0331 .

C: 813.480.5519 E : D AV I D @ G O O D S P E E D - A R C H I T E C T S . C O M

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Call: 706-374-6460

http://ArielaGroup.com/retreat

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unique items using the finest materials: Baby Alpaca, Sterling Silver, and Pima Cotton – at great value! Baby Alpaca fiber is considered a luxury, rarer than cashmere, as only the first shearing of the animal may be labeled Baby Alpaca. The fiber is light, very fine, but more resistant and much warmer than wool. We offer a beautiful variety of sweaters and accessories in Baby Alpaca, in a rainbow of colors, in a fine knit or hand-woven on a wooden loom... simply gorgeous! Handcrafted Sterling silver jewelry and frames, combining colonial and contemporary elements. We mainly use 950 silver, which dramatically increases brightness and detail sharpness. Our exquisitely crafted handbags in Pima cotton and leather are a fashion statement in design. Throughout our shop you will find a synthesis of European and indigenous influences with a wonderful and distinct Latin American flavor. Come by and be delighted!

Qinti- The Peruvian Store 531 East Main Street Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706. 946. 8889 www.ArtisanSilverGifts.com Rose Van Dyke, Associate Broker, Coldwell Banker High Country Realty “From the moment I shake the client’s hand, one immediately senses my enthusiasm for our region; sense of community, various lifestyles, and the grandeur of landscape. The vastness of this region be it Fannin Co., 40% National Forest, or neighboring Gilmer and Union Counties are more than a day trip. Prepare yourself for an adventure! Yes, I am an Atlanta convert, but having purchased my Blue Ridge home 13 years ago almost qualifies me as

local. My diverse background includes Broker, Luxury Home Builder/Developer liaison, and Buyer/Seller Agent. Happiness is key in every transaction, and one finds true bliss in this environment. I embrace real estate challenges. I take those roads less traveled and have learned one can build on any mountain. The rivers and lakes will rise again and as Blue Ridge evolves, in- town living is now in. There is never a bad day in the Mountains I say.”

Rose Van Dyke Coldwell Banker High Country Realty 274 W. Main Street Blue Ridge, GA 30513 404. 583. 1035 Rose.cbhighcountry@gmail.com StudioTrimble StudioTrimble, Inc., the Southern Appalachian premier commercial and residential interior design firm is celebrating it’s 25 year anniversary!

Incorporated in Atlanta by owner, designer Cindy Trimble, ASID the firm has amassed a broadly diverse portfolio of unique commercial and residential projects. A graduate of Emory University (BA Business & History of Art/ Architecture) and Rhode Island School of Design, (BFA Interior Architecture) Cindy is a Registered Interior Designer in Georgia, is NCIDQ Certified and by appointment from Governor Nathan Deal, sits on the State Board of Architects & Interior Designers. The studio is full service, providing auto cad drawing, 3-D modeling and rendering drawings, lighting design, interior and exterior detailing, finish and color selections, Kitchen and bath design, complete decoration services (furniture, accessories, artwork, rugs, window treatments,

etc.) In 2016, StudioTrimble was recipient of an ASID State Design Award for Hospitality Design for their design of Chester’s in Blue Ridge.

StudioTrimble, Inc. 146 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706. 946. 2030 www.studiotrimble.com Tupelo Tea Tupelo Tea Inc. was formed with a mission to offer over 80 premium tea blends to tea lovers who are always exploring new flavors. Our tea blends offer unique and captivating taste experiences to tea enthusiasts, giving them a truly enjoyable experience.

Tupelo Tea 531 East Main St, Blue Ridge GA 30513 706. 946. 8327 www.TupeloTea.com 10am to 6pm 7 days a week ACLM For more information contact: The Blue Ridge Business Association PO Box 2527 Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706. 258. 2432 www.bestofblueridge.biz

Don’t forget the chili!

WHO LOVE ART, GOOD FOOD AND THE GREAT OUTDOORS Creating environments our clients can’t wait to come home to!

No Limits on Grandeur...

Rose Van Dyke Associate Broker

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Professional Interior Design and Decoration Services Studio Trimble, Inc. 146 Depot Street Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706-946-2030

Coldwell Banker High Country Realty 274 W. Main Street Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513 Offices Indepnedently Owned & Operated

Rose.cbhighcountry@gmail.com

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www.studiotrimble.com

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Over 80 premium tea blends for tea lovers who are looking for ways to explore new flavors.

10am to 6pm • 7 days a week Tupelo Tea 531 East Main St, Blue Ridge GA 30513 706-946-TEAS (8327) www.TupeloTea.com WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

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AC LIVING RECIPES

D E AT H B Y

Chocolate While the winter months seem to drag on, we all turn to our favorite comfort foods. Savory chocolate recipes have been used for special occasions since the first mole sauce was served centuries ago. With Valentine's Day just around the corner, what better way to celebrate than with a tribute to chocolate? And remember, no matter what your mother may have told you, it’s perfectly acceptable to eat chocolate for dinner!

Flourless Chocolate Cake

This simple cake is extremely rich, and tastes like the most delicious, silkiest, most supremely-chocolate ganache you’ve ever had. The taste depends entirely on the quality of the chocolate used, so choose wisely.

Ingredients 10 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, coarsely chopped 7 ounces butter, salted or unsalted, cut into pieces 5 large eggs, at room temperature 1 cup sugar Preparation 1. Preheat the oven to 350F 2. Butter a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan* and dust it with cocoa powder, tapping out any excess. If you suspect your springform pan isn’t 100% watertight, wrap the outside with aluminum foil, making sure it goes all the way up to the outer rim.

3. Melt the chocolate and butter in a double boiler (or microwave), stirring occasionally, until smooth. Remove from heat.

4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar, then whisk in the FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017

melted chocolate mixture until smooth.

5. Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan and cover the top of the pan snugly with a sheet of foil. Put the springform pan into a larger baking pan, such as a roasting pan, and add enough hot water to the baking pan to come about halfway up to the outside of the cake pan.

6. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes.

You’ll know the cake is done when it feels just set, like quivering chocolate pudding. If you gently touch the center, your finger should come away clean.

7. Lift the cake pan from the water bath and remove the foil. Let cake cool completely on a cooling rack.

Serve thin wedges of this very rich cake at room temperature, with creme anglaise, ice cream, or whipped cream.

Note: This cake can be wrapped and chilled in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.

– David Lebovitz

Red Wine & Chocolate Beef Stew

Chocolate has long been used in savory dishes. The earthy bitterness of cocoa is a natural in rich meaty dishes like beef stew.

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Ingredients 2 pounds or so of stew beef or blade pot roast, cut into large chunks 11/2 cups red wine 1/4 cup Worcestershire Sauce 3 tablespoons olive oil 3 stalks celery, chopped 1-2 onions peeled and chopped 3-4 carrots, peeled and chopped 28 oz can of whole tomatoes 1 cup beef broth 1 dried Ancho pepper, seeded and chopped or 4.5 oz can chopped green chilies 1 tablespoon ground cumin 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon 1 tablespoon dried oregano 2 heaping spoonfuls cocoa powder 2 ounces 70% dark chocolate, chopped Salt & pepper to taste, optional- several dashes of hot sauce 10-12 oven roasted new potatoes, figure 2 person depending on size of the potato.

Preparation 1. Marinate beef in wine, Worcestershire, salt & pepper 2. In a large skillet brown beef chunks in oil.

3. In a large heavy pot add the celery, onions and carrots. Add the tomatoes, WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

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Blue Ridge Mountain Trail Rides & Blue Ridge Mountain Canopy Adventure AT HELL’S HOLLOW ADVENTURE OUTPOST

ZIP LINES!

APRIL MAY 2017 ISSUE

SPRING & SUMMER FESTIVALS PREVIEW

TRAIL RIDES!

Saddle: 706.408.RIDE & Soar: 706.946.1010

www.blueridgemountaintrailridesathellshollow.com | www.blueridgecanopyadventure.com

Annual St. Patricks Day Parade

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REACH 30,000 READERS

CALL TODAY! 706. 492. 5070

Traditional Fare at the Boro Inn & Irish Pub 150 W Main St. Blue Ridge, GA

alice@blueridgemediagroup.com

Porch Life 365 Custom Enclosures Boro Inn.indd 1

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Specializing in Eze Breeze Enclosures, Custom Screen Rooms, Retractable Awnings and Flooring for your North Georgia Home’s Porch. Family Owned Business with 40+Years Experience.

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AC

chopping them a bit with a spoon.

Add beef broth and the remains of the marinade. Add chilies, spices and cocoa and stir well. Season with salt and optional hot sauce. Bring to a simmer.

4. Continue simmering until the beef is very tender and the broth has thickened, about 1-1/2 hours. Stir in the dark chocolate.

5. Ladle stew over potatoes. Serve immediately topped with fresh cilantro and extra sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream or yogurt! Serves 6.

Chocolate Bacon Jam

Spread this savory bacon jam on toast or Hoe Cakes for breakfast, on crusty bread as an appetizer, or use it as a condiment in sandwiches and burgers. Also makes a great gift for your chocolate loving friends!

1-1/2 to 2 lbs bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces and cooked 1 large yellow onion, diced 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar 2 cups water 1 cup coffee or bourbon 1/2 cup molasses or pure maple syrup 1/2 cup brown sugar 2 to 4 oz dark chocolate chopped, chips are also fine FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017

Preparation 1. In a heavy skillet or pot– with approximately 1 tablespoon bacon grease– add onions and garlic and cook until translucent.

2. Add in bourbon/coffee, vinegar, water, molasses, and brown sugar.

Bring to a boil, scraping down the sides to release browned bits. Add in the chocolate and cooked bacon, and stir to combine.

3. Simmer uncovered, stirring every 2030 minutes for about 3 hrs. or until jam has reduced to a thicker consistency.

4. Pulse in blender or food processor until coarsely chopped, do not puree.

5. Let cool, then refrigerate in airtight containers up to 4 weeks.

6. Warm jam very slightly in microwave and serve.

Hoe Cakes

Referred to Ash Cakes, Journey Cakes or Johnny Cakes, this cornmeal flat bread was first made by American Indians and cooked on rocks or bricks in the fire.

According to Director of Interpretation and Museum Programs for Historic London Town and Gardens in Maryland, Rod Cofield's research reveals that the name hoe cake comes

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not from the slaves cooking the cornmeal on a metal hoe, but from an earlier meaning of the word hoe, which was synonymous with griddle.

“From a naming standpoint, the term hoe used for a cooking implement as early as the 1670s strongly suggests that when colonists baked a mixture of Indian corn (or wheat) and liquid on a peel or griddle, this food item became known as a hoe cake. The name stuck even when a hoe cake was cooked in a skillet or pan.”

– Rod Cofield Ingredients 2 cups white or yellow cornmeal 1 egg, beaten with a fork (my addition) 1 teaspoon salt 2 cups boiling water Oil for frying or bacon grease from jam recipe.

Preparation 1. Add salt and egg to cornmeal, mix with fork 2. Add boiling water and stir 3. Let cool slightly and then form into patties 4. Heat skillet on medium high heat and plop patties into pan. Brown on both sides, drain and serve.

Makes about 12 cakes. ACLM WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

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INSIDE While we like to think we’re perfect, sadly we’re not. And sometimes events just get cancelled, dang it. So please confirm the info provided here before you make travel plans! Thanks for your understanding.

ARTS 1/14 thru 2/18 The Art of Max Muller Blue Ridge, GA. An internationally acclaimed Master Watercolor artist, Muller’s work is visually exciting and emotionally stimulating due to his use of color and light. Max’s work has been featured in numerous art publications and many of his original works were commissioned by Disney’s Epcot Center.

Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, 420 Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA. Visit www. blueridgearts.net or call 706632-2144.

1/14 thru 3/25 AIR 1st Qtr- Sally Arnold Blue Ridge, GA. Sally Arnold is a distinguished pastel, oil and encaustic artist who creates beautiful works of art that are a direct reflection of her feelings and mood. Her subject matter, like her art mediums varies; sometimes landscapes, still life or posed figures. Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, 420 Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA. Visit www.blueridgearts.net or call 706-632-2144.

2/25 Gilmer Arts 2017 Annual Spring Juried Group Art Exhibition Ellijay, GA. Meet regional artists and learn about their work, while enjoying refreshments and mingling with like-minded art lovers. Awards will be presented at 6pm. The Reception is free and open to the public. Gilmer Arts, 207 Dalton St. Ellijay, GA 30540. Call Gilmer Arts at (706) 635-5605 or gilmerarts.org

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3/1 thru 3/25 Youth Art Month Blue Ridge, GA. Youth Art Month is a national celebration of the visual arts in education. YAM is held annually in March and is designed to emphasize the importance of quality art education for all children. Opening Reception March 1st, 4pm.

Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, 420 Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA. Visit www. blueridgearts.net or call 706632-2144.

3/24 & 3/25 Meet the Authors!

Ellijay, GA. A Free Literary Event & Book Fair 10am – 5pm. Gilmer Arts, 207 Dalton St. Ellijay, GA 30540. Call Gilmer Arts at (706) 635-5605 or gilmerarts.org 4/7 & 4/8 20th Annual Blue Ridge Writers’ Conference.

The Mission of the Blue Ridge Writers’ Conference is to educate, inform, and inspire writers. No matter the level of expertise, the Blue Ridge Writers’ Conference provides a venue for professional writers, editors and agents to provide feedback to the aspiring writer in how to craft that first novel, sell a magazine article, market yourself in the literary world, or finding inspiration for your poetry. Registration now open.

Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, 420 Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA. Visit www. blueridgearts.net or call 706632-2144.

EVENTS 2/4 Andrews Brewing Company 3rd Annual Chili Festival Andrews, NC. So much fun!

A Chili Competion! That’s right!

The last two years we had some amazing entries! The champion will win the admiration of his or her peers beyond belief.

3:00 pm – 5:00 pm. Andrews Breweing Co. 565 Aquone Road Andrews, NC 28901. (828) 3212006 or andrewsbrewing.com

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NORTH GEORGIA'S GUIDE TO AREA

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

2/11 4th Anniversary Party Four years? Really? Noon– 5:00 pm. Andrews Breweing Co. 565 Aquone Road, Andrews, NC 28901. (828) 321-2006 or andrewsbrewing.com 2/18 7th Annual Fire & Ice Chili Cook Off Downtown Blue Ridge City Park.

Cook-Off will happen come rain, snow or shine so see you on Saturday. Mark your calendars for live music, ice sculptures and amazing chili! Buy a $10 Tasting Card to sample the competition and vote for the People’s Choice Award. Featuring Live Music and entertainment from the Blue Ridge Community Theater actors. An amazing display of individual and unique ice sculptures from the award winning, National Ice Carving Champion “Rock on Ice” including several ice carving demonstrations. Downtown. Noon – 4:00 pm. Contact: Blue Ridge Business Association: Cory Bryant at 706-455-6800 and/or Pam Fink at 706-258-2432 or visit bestofblueridge.biz.

2/8 GHS 5th Annual Jazz Cats Dinner, Dance & Silent Auction Ellijay, GA. Gilmer High School Band PresentsThe Jazz Cats!

Music, Dancing, Dinner and Silent Auction. After Five Attire.

Proceeds benefit GHS Band Program. This is one of the biggest fundraisers of the year. It’s lots of fun since it is live music performed by our Jazz Cats!!

6:00pm - 8:30pm. Tickets are $15.00 each or Two for $25.00.

Contact: 706.276.5099 GHS Band Office.

2/25 Bringin’ the Blues to Blue Ridge Blue Ridge, GA. Celebrate Mardis Gras with the Rollin’ Bones! Masks, Cajun Food, Great Music, Dancing, Auction, Door Prizes & More! Benefitting Snack in a Backpack. Advance tickets: $50 per person or $90 per couple. 5 to 9pm - Willow Creek Falls Vineyard. For info and tickets call 706. 851. 8190 or visit snackinabackpack.org.

2/25 Mountain Crossings’ 2017 Thru Hiker Season Kick Off Party Blairsville, GA. Join us for our Annual Thru Hiker Season Kick Off Party! Each year as thru hikers begin to their North Bound journeys to Maine, we host a party with live music, food, fun for the whole family, a gear raffle and gear demonstrations by outdoor product companies.

11am to 6pm Music from 1pm to 5pm. Mountain Crossings at Walasi-yi, 12471 Gainesville Hwy, Balirsville, GA 30512.

Contact 709-745-6095 or www. mountaincrossings.com 3/4 Cork & Canvas Blue Ridge, GA. Support our youth arts programming as you enjoy delicious wine samplings from various regional area vintners and savory food from our local restaurants. This event includes a silent auction, wine grab and live entertainment. Ticket prices are $35 for non-members, $30 for BRMAA members, and include a commemorative BRMAA wine glass and complimentary glass of wine with each event ticket.

Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, 420 Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA. Visit www. blueridgearts.net or call 706632-2144.

3/18 Bowls of Hope Blue Ridge, GA. Benefitting Feed Fannin- Select a bowl made by a local potter, enjoy soups and desserts, listen to live music and bid on items in our silent auction. Our Bowls of Hope event strives to raise awareness and funds to fill the bowls of the hungry in Fannin County.

Tickets for Bowls of Hope are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. Tickets are available at the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce, Design Refind, the United Community Banks in Blue Ridge and on line at www. feedfannin.com. Time: 12:00 (noon) – 3:00 PM • Silent auction ends at 2:00. Willow Creek Falls, 35 Trackside Lane, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Visit www. feedfannin.org.

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KIDS OF ALL AGES 2/11 Mercier’s Valentine’s Kids Baking Class Blue Ridge, GA. Our next children’s bakery class will be on Saturday, February 11th from 9-11. The kids will be making sugar cookies, and it is $25.00 for the first child and $20.00 for any additional children. Call 800-361-7731, or stop by to reserve your child a spot today!

Mercier Orchards, Hwy 5, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Visit www. mercier-orchards.com/800361-7731 2/17 & 2/24 Did an Asteroid Really Kill the Dinosaurs?

Young Harris, GA. Did a space rock six miles wide slam into the Earth millions of years ago and wipe out a majority of all living species at that time, including the dinosaurs? Explore this impact and other cosmic collisions in this dynamic show.

See the numerous craters on worlds like the Moon, Mars, and even distant Pluto. 8pm. Rollins Planetarium, YHC. Tickets are available for advanced purchase online at yhc.edu/planetarium or at the door 30 minutes prior to each show. Call (706) 379-5195 or visit yhc.edu/planetarium.

2/18 Tri-State Model Railroaders Open House Mineral Bluff, GA. The model railroad layout depicting Copper Basin Railroading in the early 1950’s is developing nicely and the Tri-State Model Railroaders invite you to come enjoy the depiction, learn how railroads played such an important role in the development of the Tri-State area and to learn the unique history of the restored brick depot. Enjoy history, model railroading, and great conversation about this Tri-State Region’s railroading history. 10 am -2pm.

Tri-State Model Railroaders Mineral Bluff Historic Depot 150 Railroad Avenue, Mineral Bluff, GA 30559. For information call 828-361-2210 or visit www. tsmri.org.

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017

AC LIVING CALENDAR

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE Weekly Mountain High Hikers Before hiking with the Mountain High Hikers, please carefully read the Hiking Guidelines on the website and come prepared with water, food, first aid items, rain gear, proper clothing and shoes, hiking sticks, and a small pack to carry your supplies.

During deer hunting season wear bright colors (such as an orange hat or vest) so you are visible to the hunters. Visit website for calendar and availability: www.mountainhighhikers.org 2/25 & 2/26 NRC Glacier Breaker Nantahala Outdoor Center, NC. Presented by the Nantahala Racing Club, the Glacier Breaker is a family-friendly slalom and downriver event on the Nantahala River. This fun, all ages, community event is a great introduction for first-time racers. Participants can use racing or plastic boats. $30.

9am. Registration and info: NantahalaRacingClub.com or 828.488.7285 3/24 thru 3/26 NRC Whitewater US Open Nantahala Outdoor Center, NC. Slalom and downriver racers converge on Bryson City for this national-level event hosted by Nantahala Racing Club. Course InformationSlalom: Nantahala Falls Course (Class III); Downriver Sprint: Patton’s Run Rapid (Class III); Downriver Classic: Ferebbee Park to the Jumping Rock (Class II). Registration and info: NantahalaRacingClub.com or 828.488.7285

MUSIC Every Evening Bell Music from the Tower Blairsville, GA. 7:00pm – 7:30pm. At the Historic Courthouse on the Square in Downtown Blairsville, GA. Free!

Contact (706) 745-5493 or www.unioncountyhistory.org Fridays - Saturdays Live Music at Blue Ridge Brewery Blue Ridge, GA. Serving great food, craft beer, fine wine and top shelf alcohol. Dog friendly outdoor patio. Open Wednesday through Saturday 11:00am – 9:00pm. Blue Ridge Brewery, 187 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA . 706. 632. 6611 or www. blueridgebrewery.com

Fridays - Saturdays Live Music at Chevelle’s Restuarant & Bar 66 Murphy, NC. Fun place to have a good time with great food, awesome music, and good people. Open 11am - 2am.

Music at 9pm. Chevelle’s: 66 Hiwassee Street, Murphy NC 28906. 828-835-700. www. chevellerestaurants.com Wednesdays & Fridays Live Music at the Daily Grind and Wine Murphy, NC. Never a cover charge! However, we do suggest a tip for our fantastic musicians...gas ain’t cheap!

Beer and wine by the glass! Feel free to browse our retail wine section and pick out any bottle to enjoy an additional low set-up fee of just $5.00! 5-7pm.

The Daily Grind and Wine 46 Valley River Avenue Murphy, NC 28906 Sundays WYYZ’s Live Music at Rocco’s Jasper, GA. Rocco’s Pub is a family friendly restaurant serving the highest quality, local and fresh ingredients. Noon - 11PM. Reservations accepted. Rocco’s Pub, 47 Mountainside Village Parkway, Jasper, GA. Contact 706.253.1900 or visit http://roccosjasper.com 3rd Friday Every Month Live Music Acoustic Blends Ellijay, GA. Listen to a Variety of Quality Music Acts … or Join the Jam! You’re welcome to bring your own libations and munchies, or you can purchase water, sodas and snacks while you enjoy some eclectic, spontaneous and fun music! 7 pm.

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

706-635-5605 www.gilmerarts. org 2/11 Gene Watson & Joe Diffie Hiawassee, GA. Gene Watson: With a career which spans seven decades, hit singles and consistently tasteful album releases, Gene Watson is one of the greatest country music artists which Texas, the United States and the world has ever known. Joe Diffie: With charttoppers like “Pickup Man,” “Third Rock from the Sun,” and “John Deere Green,” and 13 albums and over 20 Top 10 singles to his credit, Joe Diffie has little to prove, yet he still has a fire in his belly to make good country music. Tickets: Level 1: $35.00 + $2.00 Handling. Level 2: $25.00 + $2.00 Handling.

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017

Show at 7:00PM. Anderson Music Hall, Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Hiawassee. Info: (706) 896-4191 or www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com 2/18 Kathy Mattea in Concert Ellijay, GA. Gilmer Arts & Heritage BEST Series. Two time Grammy winner, with for ACA awards and three CMA awards, country music favorite Kathy Mattea. She will be in concert for an intimate performance of her hits, with stories of a life growing up in the mountains of West Virginia centered on family and music. It will be just delightful. Excellent Valentine’s gift! 7:30 pm. Ellijay Elementary Auditorium 32 McCutchen St., Ellijay, GA 30540. For tickets and info call 706-635-5605 or visit gilmerarts.org 2/18 MIchelle Malone Blue Ridge, GA. Americana singer-songwriter, guitarist and producer, 2015 winner of the Georgia Music Award for Best Female Rock. Michelle plays slide guitar, drums, saxophone and harmonica. Michelle has 16 releases, some gold and platinum records she wrote for the Indigo Girls. 7:30 PM. Blue Ridge Community Theater, 2591 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. For Tickets and Info call 706-632-9223 or visit www. blueridgecommunitytheater.com 2/18 Mac Arnold & Plate Full of Blues Hayesville, NC. Mac’s performance has yet to let us down.

We have brought this old school Chicago Blues Band back to do it again. Mac honed his skills playing with Muddy Waters, B.B. King and Otis Redding. 7pm.

Contact box office at 828-3892787 to purchase tickets or on-line at peacockperformingarts.center.

3/11 Jimmy Web in Concert Ellijay, GA. Gilmer Arts & Heritage BEST Series. Jimmy Webb, American songwriter, composer and singer known worldwide as a master of his trade. Since his first platinum hit “The Worst That Could Happen,” Webb has had numerous hits including “Up, Up and Away,” “By the Time I Get to Phoenix,” “Wichita Lineman,” “Galveston,” “All I Know” and “MacArthur Park.” Advance Tickets: $27 + tax. Door Tickets: $29 + tax.

Save 20% on Season Tickets!

7:30 pm. Ellijay Elementary Auditorium 32 McCutchen St., Ellijay, GA 30540. For tickets and info call 706-635-5605 or visit gilmerarts.org

Bonnie Raitt has recorded his songs. 7:30 PM. Blue Ridge Community Theater, 2591 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. For Tickets and Info call 706-632-9223 or visit www. blueridgecommunitytheater.com

3/11 Wynonna & The Big Noise Hiawasee, GA. Earning rave reviews for their acclaimed self-titled debut album—which has achieved Top Ten status on the Americana Airplay chart and reached #2 on the Roots Music Report (country) chart. Tickets: Level 1: $41.00 + $2.00 Handling. Level 2: $31.00 + $2.00 Handling. 7pm. Anderson Music Hall, Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Hiawassee. Info: (706) 896-4191 or www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com

4/7 Clint Black Hiawassee, GA. Clint Black is back. The multi-million selling country mega-star is releasing on purpose, his first full-length album of new songs in a decade and he’s doing it on his own terms. Tickets On Sale February 17th. Level 1: $41.00 + Handling. Level 2: $31.00 + Handling. 7pm. Anderson Music Hall, Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Hiawassee. Info: (706) 896-4191 or www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com

3/25 Randall Bramblett Blue Ridge, GA. Acclaimed American artist and singersongwriter. Georgia born multi-instrumentalist with 35 year impressive music career.

Randall is also a sideman who has toured with Gregg Allman and Steve Winwood. Notable

4/1 Roxy Watson Blue Ridge, GA. Roxie Watson is a five-piece string band from Decatur and Atlanta, GA, who play what they like to call “alterna-grass” music that mixes three- and four-part harmonies with elements of old country,

3/7 ZZ Top Hiawassee, GA. Opening act- Austin Hanks. More than four and a half decades after their formation in the Houston area, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees ZZ Top are set to begin a new tour in 2017.

The Tonnage Tour takes the trio to several American cities in the South, Northeast and Midwest. Tickets: $75.00 + $2.00 Handling. 7pm. Anderson Music Hall, Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Hiawassee. Info: (706) 896-4191 or www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com

3/25 MercyMe Hiawassee, GA. An American contemporary Christian band, originally formed in Greenville, Texas. Level 1: $45.00 + $2.00 Handling. Level 2: $35.00 + $2.00 Handling. $5.00 off church groups of 20 or more.

7pm. Anderson Music Hall, Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Hiawassee. Info: (706) 8964191 or www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com

Celebrate Mardi Gras at the 6th Annual

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AC LIVING CALENDAR Appalachian music, hymns, and bluegrass, without adhering to the traditions of any one genre.

7:30 PM. Blue Ridge Community Theater, 2591 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. For Tickets and Info call 706-6329223 or visit www.blueridgecommunitytheater.com 4/8 John Jorgenson’s Bluegrass Band Ellijay, GA. Gilmer Arts & Heritage BEST Series. 7:30pm.

Ellijay Elementary School Auditorium located at 32 McCutchen St., Ellijay, GA 30540. Advance Tickets: $27 + tax (Mbrs. save 10%)Door Tickets: $29 + tax. Members Save 20% on Season Tickets!

For tickets and info call 706635-5605 or visit gilmerarts.org

THEATER 1/27 thru 2/5 Dinner Theater- Trouble at the Tropicabana Ellijay, GA. Last year we were sold out, so don’t delay! Menu: 30 min. hors d’oeuvres & refreshments, followed by dinner of salad, pot roast, loaded mashed potatoes, and dessert (vegetarian option available by request). Book early for whole tables and wheelchair/ scooter seating (each night has one table of 12, two tables of six, and 5 tables of 10). 6pm- 9pm.

Gilmer Arts, 207 Dalton St. Ellijay, GA 30540. Call Gilmer Arts at (706) 635-5605.

2/3 thru 2/12 Disney’s Beauty and the Beast The classic story tells of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity. Thur Sat - 7:30 pm; Sun - 2:00pm.

Blue Ridge Community Theater, 2591 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. For Tickets and Info call 706-632-9223 or visit www.blueridgecommunitytheater.com 3/2 thru 3/19 The Count of Monte Cristo Betrayal, obsession, and redemption provide the backdrop for this compelling adaptation of Alexandre Dumas’ classic novel.

Unjustly imprisoned, Edmond Dantes befriends an inmate who bequeaths him an enormous treasure. Dantes eventually escapes and returns to society disguised as the Count of Monte Cristo with plans to enact his revenge on those who betrayed him. As Dantes becomes increasingly consumed with vengeance, he finds himself losing his humanity and any hope of reconciling with the love of his life. Thur - Sat - 7:30 pm; Sun 2:00pm. Blue Ridge Community Theater, 2591 E. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. For Tickets and Info call 706-6329223 or visit www.blueridgecommunitytheater.com

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3/3 thru 4/19 Taming of the Shrew Jasper, GA. Shakespeare’s comic look at courtship and marriage. Come on and kiss me, Kate! Friday and Saturday performances at 7:30 PM Tickets $18 adults, $$16 seniors, $14 students. Buy Flex Passes and save even more. Visit our Buy Tickets page on the website.

Evening shows at 7:30pm.

Sundays at 2:00pm. Tater Patch Players Theater, 95 Philadelphia Lane in Jasper, GA, 30143.

For info and tickets visit www. taterpatchplayers.org or call 706-253-2800.

WINE & BEER TASTINGS Ongoing 7 Days a Week Cartecay Vineyards LIve MusicSaturdays Ellijay, GA. Cartecay Vineyards is located in The Southern Appalachians in North Georgia are ideal for growing wine grapes. The elevation, the soil and the climate combine to produce wine grapes of the highest quality and subsequently, fine wines. Live Music weekends 1:30 - 5:30. Mon-Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 12:30- 5:30pm (thru December). 5704 Clear Creek Road, Ellijay, GA 30536.

706-698-9463 (WINE) or www. cartecayvineyards.com Ongoing Thurs - Mon Engelheim Vineyards LIve Music Weekends Located near Ellijay, Georgia in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, focuses on growing outstanding grapes to produce the highest quality of wines. And honoring the original residents of Engelheim, the Cherokee Nation. Tasting Room Hours: Thursday – Monday 12:30 to 6:00 P.M. Engelheim Vineyards 127 Lakeview Road, Ellijay, GA 30540. Call 706-635-WINE (9463) or visit www.engelheim. com.

Ongoing 7 Days a Week Chateau Meichtry Family Vineyard & Winery LIve Music Weekends Tasting, wines by the glass, a fabulous view, live music on weekends and great company.

Open 7 days a week: Mon-Sat 11am -6pm, Sun 12:30pm -5:30pm. 1862 Orchard Lane Talking Rock, GA 30175.

For our friends using GPS or Google maps, please use the address: 2100 Orchard Lane, Talking Rock, GA 30175. Call 706.502.1608 or visit: http:// chateaumeichtry.com

Ongoing Fridays Chocolatasm!

Blue Ridge, GA. The Vine Wine Bar and Bistro in Blue Ridge and Chocolatasm are proud to present a special wine and chocolate pairing Friday evenings at 6pm. Reservations required.

Call Leann Martin at 706-9468463 or email your RSVP to Leannhmartin@gmail.com by the Thursday before the date to reserve your place. Regular wine tastings every day with no reservation required. www. thevineofblueridge.com Ongoing Wed - Sat Blue Ridge Brewery Blue Ridge, GA. Serving great food, craft beer, fine wine and top shelf alcohol. Dog friendly outdoor patio. Open Wednesday through Saturday 11:00am – 9:00pm. Blue Ridge Brewery, 187 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA . 706. 632. 6611 or www. blueridgebrewery.com Ongoing Fri - Sat Fannin Brewing Company Blue Ridge, GA. Everyone’s welcome (including dogs, kids and non-drinkers!) when we throw the doors open, but bring your ID - you must be 21 to taste.

Join us to sample both production beers and works in progress - there’s always something fun going on! Fri 5:30- 7:30pm, Sat 2:00 – 6:00pm. 3758 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. 706.258.2762 or www. fanninbrewingcompany.com Ongoing Thurs - Sat Grumpy Old Men Brewing Blue Ridge, GA. If we don’t like it, we don’t drink it. If we don’t drink it, we don’t sell it. The Brewery it is small. We are small on purpose. Dog & kid friendly.

1:00pm – 5:00pm. 1315 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA. 770-331-8870/404-966-2665, info@grumpyoldmenbrewing. com or www.grumpyoldmenbrewing.com Ongoing Thurs - Sun Reformation Brewery Woodstock, GA. Tour & Tasting Hours Thurs 5:30-8pm, Fri 5:30-9pm, Sat 1-9pm, Sunday 2-4pm, 500 Arnold Mill Way, Woodstock, GA 30188. info@ reformationbrewery.com, (678) 341-0828 or www.reformationbrewery.com

in Historic Downtown Murphy, NC at 71 Tennessee Street. Mon - Sat 11am - 10pm, Sun 12pm 10pm. 828-837-BEER or www. valleyriverbrewery.com Ongoing Thurs Thru Sun Ferncrest Winery Enjoy tastings & wines by the glass​local cheeses & jams. Buy your favorite bottle! All tastings include a souvenir logo glass.

Thursday - Saturday 12:30 pm - 6:00 pm. Sunday 12:30 pm - 5:30 pm. Other Days and Times by Reservations. 1060 Main Street, Andrews NC 2890.

Contact: 828-321-1600 or www.ferncrestwinery.com Ongoing Mon Thru Sun Andrews Brewing Company Welcome to the prettiest little tap room in the mountains!

Nestled comfortably in North Carolina’s far western region, “Two Hours from Everywhere”, which suits us just fine. Noon– 6:00 pm, 7pm weekends.

Andrews Breweing Co. 565 Aquone Road, Andrews, NC 28901. (828) 321-2006 or andrewsbrewing.com Ongoing from Tues- Sun Crane Creek Vineyards Vineyard View Tapas & Acoustics Young Harris, GA. Fridays 6pm - 8pm. Reservations recommended. Tasting room: TuesdaySaturday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. Sunday 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Crane Creek Vineyards, 916 Crane Creek Road · Young Harris, GA | 706.379.1236. www.cranecreekvineyards.com 3/24 thru 4/2 Wine Growers of Georgia 2017 Wine Highway Weekend Purchase your “Passport” and receive your souvenir glass at any of the 21 participating wineries. Cost of the passport is $40 and that allows you 5 tastings at each winery.

The Passport is good for every day of the event. You must remember to have your passport and glass at each winery. For those who will be staying in the region for several days, many of the wineries are open during the week and will accept the passports for tastings during the week. Noon- 5pm. Visit www. georgiawine.com

Ongoing Mon- Sun Valley River Brewery & Eatery Murphy, NC. Featuring 15 of our own Craft Beers, Wood Fired Pizza made with fresh toppings, Outstanding Burgers, Homemade Desserts. Located

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Gifts, Jewelry, Crafts, Garden & Home Decor

706-781-3938 Mon- Sat 10am - 5pm

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3 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU!

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4397 Town Creek School Rd Blairsville, GA 30512

Spring Event! Saturday April 15th

Customer Appreciation Day • Chick Day • Rabies Clinic

9272 Hwy 53 W, Jasper GA 30143

Williams Tire Co. Since 1955 – Now in Two Locations

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Tires • Wheels • Oil Changes • Alignments Full Service Maintenance • Certified Mechanic

Visit Our r o Website Fl ia c Spe Offers!

Williams Tire 5140 Appalachian Hwy. Blue Ridge, GA 30513

Ellijay Tire 583 Maddox Drive Ellijay, GA 30540

williamstireco.com 706. 946. 2322 706. 635. 2322 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2017

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AC LIVING HISTORY

history of indian georgia

– The Georgia Frontier

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

A Frontier of Wild People, Terrors of The Pony Club

T

The Cherokee Territory of Georgia had instituted the Cherokee Light Horse Guard and was working with a group of Federal Troops to rid their lands of the some 4,000 intruders who kept entering into the Cherokee country to find gold.

When the Cherokees adopted a constitution in 1827, Georgia’s legislature was furious. Over the next five years, the legislature continued to pass laws that restricted the Cherokees every move to gain their independence. This effort encouraged the Pony Club, a band of mounted criminals who terrorized the Cherokees and pioneers living near the Georgia frontier.

By 1830 the government of Georgia had disbanded the Light Horse Guard, dismissed the Federal Troops and implemented their own Georgia Guard of 40-60 men, who were described as outlaw ruffians themselves. Their objective was to protect the gold mines from the miners or Cherokees, since they felt that the mineral rights belonged to Georgia. Part of their orders included ridding the country of the Pony Club. Militia Col. John W.A. Sanford failed to run them out of Georgia, in fact was considered to have been in cahoots with them on many occasions even during an election of officials in Murray County.

The Pony Club was glamorized and written about in “border romances” by Charles Dickens and by Mark Twain in stories from McMinn County Tennessee. They were a group of about 50 interrelated families that left Tennessee in 1826 and found there way to Dekalb County, Georgia along the Chattahoochee River.

According to descendants, the group left Tennessee for the explicit purpose of forming a Pony Club to raid Cherokee and Creek 30

settlements, to steal horses and pass them on to club members in other counties and states to sell.

Carroll County’s extensive Indian frontier contributed to another problem that threatened to have grave consequences. The county became the base of operations of this well-organized gang of horse thieves, along with other renegades, and outlaws whose operations extended all the way from Alabama on the west to South Carolina on the east. Known locally as the “Pony Boys,” this group of thieves brought real terror to the country during the mid 1800’s and through the early 1840’s. They had dozens members across the state of Georgia and into parts of South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee and Alabama.

These members would facilitate the movement of the “hot property” of cattle or stolen goods but mostly for the horses. Some stolen horses even made it as far as Illinois.

It was difficult to convict them because of the clandestine character of their occupation and their closed organization. Habeas Corpus (aka insufficient evidence to convict) and other proceedings in the 1830’s show numerous prisoners were released from custody because of perjury, lack of witnesses, falsified alibis; also some of those citizens seated on the grand jury that released them were members of the gang.

Honest citizens, known locally as “slicks” could be spotted easily for their snappy dress and the way they carried their guns, like characters out of a John Wayne Western. A “Captain Slick” whose real name was never determined headed one such group up. We can assume that Capt.

Slick never existed but was probably a series of men who chose to be vigilantes for the cause.

Whoever they were, they managed to set their sights on ridding the south of these criminals however they could. They set up their base of operations in six counties in Georgia and about the same number in Alabama. It was reported in the Macon Telegraph newspaper “the ‘ Slicks’ have done more than all the courts in the world in relieving the frontiers from the terrors of the Pony Club.” In some cases it didn’t take long

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for those who were riding the fence and perhaps leaning more towards being one of the Pony Boys to become law-abiding citizens.

The first fictional treatment of life in frontier Georgia to receive national recognition appeared in 1834 with the publication of Guy Rivers: A Tale of Old Georgia, the border romance that launched the literary career of William Gilmore Simms. Widely acknowledged for his keen eye for geographical and historical detail, Simms set this story in the North Georgia Mountains to take advantage of popular interest in the discovery of gold which had sparked the first major gold rush in American history. It was so popular it was even printed in England.

Simms called Guy Rivers “a tale of Georgia ---a tale of the miners---of a frontier and wild people”.

Wildly regarded as a haven for embezzlers, runaway slaves, horse thieves, and cattle rustlers, the region around Auraria had acquired a well-deserved reputation for lawlessness.

Moreover, Guy Rivers and his band of outlaws had a contemporary parallel in real life. The Sandtown community in modern Fulton County is on the eastern side of the Chattahoochee River and derives its name from the Sandtown Indians, who migrated there from the Alabama territory following the Creek War of 1813-1814. ACLM Leslie Barker Thomas is a resident of Ellijay and the President of the Gilmer County Historical Society, President, Georgia Chapter Trail of Tears Association and Communication Chair Cartecay UMC. “When history is erased, people’s moral values are also erased.” –Ma Jian Visit the Gilmer County Historical Society Historic Tabor House & Civil War Museum 138 Spring Street, Ellijay, Georgia 30540 706. 276. 1861.

Open Thursday–Saturday from 10am to 2pm www.gilmercountyhistoricalsociety.org/

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