Appalachian Country Living Magazine December 2016-January 2017

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM | DEC 2016/JAN 2017

Blue Ridge’s Only Golf and River Community

A True Sense of Place in a Setting of Simplicity, Quality& Natural Beauty | Blue Ridge, GA

SHOP LOCAL AT BLUE RIDGE COIN AND COLLECTIBLES

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS IN THE MAGICAL BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS

NAUGHTY OR NICE? COOL COAL IN YOUR STOCKING RECIPES

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

WELCOME TO EXTRAORDINARY

Your vacation getaway awaits you at Crossing Creeks Resort and Spa! Nestled in the scenic North Georgia Mountains and surrounded by the picturesque Coosa and Anderson creeks, Crossing Creeks allows you to relax with resort-style five-star amenities: • Beautiful clubhouse and activities center for outstanding social events • A master-planned community professionally managed on-site with rental program available.

• Tennis/Pickleball courts, heated pool/spa.• Dry sauna/steam and massage rooms with a gym.

Crossing Creeks Resort & Spa is the perfect luxury getaway!

Call for your getaway or visit today!

706-835-1111 • 136 Mountain Creek Road • Blairsville, GA 30512 www.CrossingCreeksRVResort.com • info@crossingcreeksrvresort.com

WELCOMEb TO AC MAGAZINE

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Goodbye fall, hello winter. My brother gave me an indoor/outdoor thermometer for my birthday- blessing or curse? This morning it was 29 degrees outside and 40 degrees inside, brrr. Our Lindal Cedar Cabin, built in 1973, was meant to be a vacation hideaway and not a year-round residence. So with no AC and only a woodstove for heat- it’s often hotter- or this time of year- colder inside than it is outside. Every year I try to hold out until December before firing up the woodstove, I’ll let ya’ know if I make it this year- and yes- I wear my fleece, flannels and hat indoors.

Fall was fabulous! With warm daytime temps, beautiful blue skies, fall colors, and sadly not a drop of rain in sight. The drought has continued, enabling wild fires to burn throughout the Southern Appalachian Mountains as well as causing many other problems. My friend’s well dried up, lake and river levels are at all an all-time low, native grasses, plants and trees are suffering and wildlife that depend on rain for their survival are at risk. The drought is another very good reason for not lighting my woodstove or having any outdoor fire. Life in the deep woods is not for everyone- as it is, in my opinionnecessary to be at one with the environment and not impose our “city human comforts and desires” on the dwindling natural habitat.

Maxine & Billy Zoom agree.

On the cover of this issue you’ll find Old Toccoa Farm, a Golf & River Community heading into its’ second year here in Blue Ridge. Located right on the Toccoa River, the course was designed with the environment in mind. Large areas of natural, native habitat have been left in tact and environmentally friendly maintenance is a gospel practice. Green building and passive systems are encouraged for those who wish to build there, so if golf is your thing, Old Toccoa Farm is a great choice.

Also rounding out their second year is The Blue Ridge Coin Shop. It’s not easy moving to the mountains and owning a business (trust me I know).

However it is somewhat easier if you have a passion for what you do and a great partner. Maggie and Corey have both. And they have cool collectibles.

As the year comes to a close, have you been naughty or nice? We all know the legend of St. Nick handing out sweets and treats to the nice, but have you met his evil twin? Krampus is the guy who takes care of St. Nick’s naughty list and you might just find him over at the Blue Ridge Brewery drinking a “Coal in Your Stocking” cocktail.

Since it ‘tis the season for fun and good cheer we have a long list of arts, events, kids stuff, music, theater and beer & wine tasting to keep you busy all winter long. Supporting the local artists and small businesses that make up the core of our communities is the only way to nurture and protect this special place we call Appalachia.

Along with Holiday fun comes the solitude and quietness of winter that gives us time to reflect on what matters to us most. Being kind to one another and to this planet we call home is key in my mind. Lending a helping hand to those in need with a focus on enriching the lifecycle of all that is around us is important now more than ever. Group tree-hugger hug.

Peace Out!

with thei

Maxine & Billy Zoom ready for deer hunting season with their bright orange Buffs. Deer can be standing in our driveway and these two have absolutely no interest. Things that live in a hole in the ground, now you’re talkin’- er- barkin’- woof!

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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, Mark Dodd & The Not Alone Foundation, Ray Higgenbotham, Peter Knutzen, Jerry Mucklow Photography, Maggie & Corey Peterson, Pat & Polina Walker, Maxine & Billy Zoom

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

PLEASE RECYCLE

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

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

2016 SCHEDULE REGULAR RIDES 11/7 - 11/23 12/26 - 12/31

HOLIDAY RIDES SANTA EXPRESS

SANTA PAVILION

SEE WEBSITE FOR DATES

Arrange a trip at brscenic.com or 1-877-413-TRAIN

NEW YEAR’S EVE TRAIN 12/31

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11/8/2016 12:40:24 PM

Jewelry Repair | Ring Sizing | Paying the Best Prices for Your Gold and Silver

Biggest and Best Diamond Selection Anywhere!

Elegant Engagement Rings & Solitaires, Wedding Bands with Lifetime Warranty

PANDORA

Premier Dealer

The New Charms Have Arrived

Always Pandora!

Bracelets, Beads, Rings and Earrings

The Diamond Center TWO LOCATIONS OPEN MONDAY THROUGH SATURDAY – WELCOME!

Blue Ridge, GA Location Hwy 515 in Ingles Shopping Center Next to TJ Max DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Murphy, NC Location Hwy 64 Next to Captain D’s Seafood

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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CONTENTS 7

11

Restaurant Spotlight, Shane’s Rib Shack Ellijay Handed Down Over Generations, Shane’s BBQ Sauce is Legendary

9 Mountain Meets Modern

Style and Design Editor Cindy Trimble Lets Us in on the Latest Trends

8 Gifts for the Collector

Blue Ridge Coin and Colectibles Just Might Have That Last Coin for the Collector on Your List

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Old Toccoa Farm

16

Going on Its 2nd Year– Blue Ridge’s Only Golf & River Community on the Toccoa River

22

Naught or Nice?

26

Holiday Happenings

Bah Humbug. Krampus Recipes to Warm the Coal in Your Heart

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

ON THE COVER

Old Toccoa Farm – a distinctive golf and river community rooted in simplicity, quality and natural beauty. Trout rise through tumbling mountain waters and ancient peaks cast their shadows over winding fairways.

Here, a relaxed and casual atmosphere prevails, and life revolves around the outdoor experience with family and friends. Photo by Jerry Mucklow Photography www.jerrymucklow.com

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

22

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

AC LIVING RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT

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

44A Town Square Blairsville, GA 30512

706. 745. 0073

CabinCoffeeCompany.com Like us on FB / CabinCoffeeBlairsville

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

Dine on the River • 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

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

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 DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Shane's Rib Shack, Ellijay

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

Shane’s Rib Shack has been open in East Ellijay coming up on eight years. During that time many loyal customers have sampled the mouth watering ribs, heaping Big Dad barbeque sandwich and wonderful sides and desserts.

New at Shane's is their Go Gluten Free menu!

Just ask when you come in or check out the menu on their web site. Another newer item is Shane’s delicious wraps, great for a lighter lunch or even better for grabbing a bite on the go.

What many people don’t know is that Shane’s also has the best chicken around. The chicken tenders are huge and can be ordered tossed in one of the signature sauces or simply plain. The chicken tenders come fried or grilled. But, both are tender and juicy. If you like wings, Shane’s also serves some of the best in town.

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

For those that want to party, Shane’s Caters, and this includes their gluten free menu too! Call 706-635-7427 to set up your next event. There is no group too big or too small!

Just off of 515, in front of Lowe’s in Ellijay, stop in and say hello to the friendly staff, try some tender barbecue and leave happy. As the restaurant menu says, “It’s gonna get messy!” ACLM For more information and to view the complete menu visit www.shanesribshack.com/ellijay/ or call 706. 635. 7427

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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Diamond Awards  A

T N A C G H C  N F  T W  E

F L   G A-

Dionne Warwick

WHEN YOU ARE READY TO BUY, LOOK TO UNITED COMMUNITY BANK Call the bank rated #1 in customer satisfaction,* and let us help you fulfill your dreams today.

ELLIJAY

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558 Industrial Boulevard | Ellijay, GA 30540

118 Whitfield Drive | Jasper, GA 30143

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

©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.

F

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R C A :  T 

CHEROKEE COUNTY CONFERENCE CENTER - NORTHSIDE HOSPITAL CANTON, GA

B  N A F            

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WWW.THENOTALONEFOUNDATION

770-949-2012

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

AC LIVING STYLE & DESIGN

Mountain Meets Modern Style & Design Editor Cindy Trimble Previews The New Mountain Home Furnishing Look for 2016

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New designs dominated the recent Fall High Furniture Point Market - one of the largest furniture markets in the world. Manufacturers from around the globe showcase their goods from furniture to lighting, rugs and linens and much more. We spent 4 days there combing the buildings searching for new products for our studio projects and e-commerce boutique.

The home furnishing trend continues to embrace the more “modern rustic and industrial” by blending materials within one piece such as woods, metals, stone, concrete and glass. Accent colors were minimized to small splashes such as a rug or pillow with an overall neutral design opposed to previous years where showrooms were bathed in stronger, darker neutral or bright jewel tone colors. Different furnishing styles and origins of furnishings were mixed creating more eclectic rooms, such as rustic, Asian, Modern and Traditional styles all in one setting.

The “Belgian linen color” was the most dominate with splashes of turquoise, chocolate brown or a dark saffron gold. This look is one that crosses the demographics from Mountain Modern to Loft Living to the new Urban and Suburban “Spa and Serene” decorative direction. Touches of “antique or historical” were integrated throughout specific furnishing elements including the re-design of traditional pieces such as wing back chairs or chesterfield sofas that were covered with “antiqued or teastained” fabrics giving them a worn look.

A trend that is still growing is the “Deconstructivist style” that leaves pieces torn apart, left unfinished with structures and framing left exposed. Repurposing continues to be both a decorative and artistic style where all sorts of common day elements are redesigned and given new life. ACLM DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

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

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Clockwise From Top Left: The “Belgian linen color” was the most dominate with splashes of turquoise, chocolate brown or a dark saffron gold.

Traditional tufted back chair that is given a new look by combining the linen with leather and leaving the sides and back structures open, giving it an antique or unfinished look.

Antique bicycle becomes a bar or console table.

Traditional bed frame covered with nubby linen with prewashed linen bedding.

Airplane piece becomes wall storage unit.

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9

SHOPL LOCA

BLU E

RIDGE

•

GEORGIA

Shop for Holiday Gifts in Store!

And Online:

MER C IER OR C H AR DS .COM

Visit Our Hard Cider Tasting Room, Fresh Bakery, Farm Market & Eatery: Breakfast: 7AM-11 AM

Lunch:

11 AM-6 PM

Check our website and Facebook page for Children’s Bakery Classes and special events.

706-632-3411 • MERCIERORCHARDS.COM 8660 BLUE RIDGE DRIVE, BLUE RIDGE, GA 30513

“Cornbread Christmas”

by Cornbread

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

AC LIVING LOCAL BUSINESS PROFILE

Find a Penny, Pick it Up. All Day Long Have Good Luck!

The next time you’re walking down the street, and notice a shiny coin on the ground but don’t have the time or desire to pick it up, think twice about your decision.

Why, you may ask? You probably guessed it – that nickel, dime or quarter that’s been discarded might be worth more than a few cents.

Even if it doesn’t have any significant value over the monetary worth that it has been designated, it does have a story, and that in and Above: A 1909-S Indian Head One Cent coin. Maggie and Cory Peterson welcome you to come and visit them at the Blue Ridge Coin Shop and Collectibles.

Right: They also have a good selection of Collectors Books.

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

of itself is valuable. But how would you know if a coin falls into the category of “rare,” and where in North Georgia would you begin to look for such a place that could tell you? Enter Blue Ridge Coins and Collectables: Blue Ridge, Georgia’s most trusted shop for all of your coin and bullion needs.

Opened in 2014, Blue Ridge Coins and Collectables is owned by Maggie and Cory Peterson, whose shared love of coins began at an early age. For Maggie, who was born in Texas and raised in Georgia, it was a hobby that she grew to love through her parents, particularly her father, who owns a coin shop as well. For Cory, who was born in Colorado and raised in Georgia as well, it began while spending summers with his grandmother in Florida.

The idea of working together in the coin world was ideal, and after some training and research, the two opened the Blue Ridge Coin Shop in Blue Ridge. The decision was made out

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

of their passion for the industry but also to help others along their journey into the world of collectible coins. If they stumble upon a coin that they’ve never seen before, it’s icing on the cake.

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Quality Resale & Consignment

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Tuesday Thru Friday 10-6 & saTurday 10-4 14 M ark WhiTField sTreeT Jasper, Ga 30143 Facebook “f ” Logo

Consider it our Resolution to You!

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Daisy Boutique

B LUE RIDGE, GEORGIA ACCEPTING NEW CABINS ANYWHERE IN THE COUNTY WITH NO START UP OR SIGN ON FEES

Store Hours: Monday thru Saturday 10:00 to 6:00

140 Mark Whitfield Drive, Suite E Jasper, GA 30143 (706) 253-6996

www.daisyboutique.com

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Do you love this magazine, its layout, design and the design of the ads? The written content?

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alice@blueridgemediagroup.com APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

AC LIVING LOCAL BUSINESS PROFILE

SHOP L OCAL

Above: Blue Ridge Coin Shop and Collectibles offers an ever-changing selection of gold and silver coins, bullion and gift items. Be sure to stop by often to see what’s new!

Right and Below: With their large inventory of common domestic and foreign coins you can easily find the pieces you need to complete any collection.

“What we like most about the coin shop, apart from being able to work together, is meeting new people every day and seeing rare coins that we, ourselves, would never be able to have in a personal collection. The feeling of holding something that is two hundred years old, or that went through World War II, is astonishing. I can’t help but wonder who else has held that coin,” said Maggie.

But how, you may be asking, would one start to learn more about coin collecting? According to Maggie, it’s best to start by learning about the markets associated with the hobby.

“There are two markets when dealing with coins. The metal market changes every moment of every day, just like the stock market. It is an international market that decides the price of gold, silver, platinum, and palladium.

The collectible market is a slower moving market. Over time, coins become more and more rare as the ones that were originally minted get lost, damaged, or even melted down.”

Once you know a little something about the markets, keep an eye on out for rare coins, particularly those containing silver.

“People ask us all the time what to look for DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

in their piggy banks or change. The United States stopped putting silver in quarters and dimes in 1964. The Kennedy half-dollar contained silver until 1970, and the wheat one cent coins ended in 1958. I normally tell people to look for United States coins 1964 and older.

If you ever have any questions or need help looking through your change, just bring it on

art rounds (including a zombie series), and various silver bars. They also have an incredible collection of coins in stock – everything from Indian Head one cents to Morgan silver dollars.

If you notice that a younger member of your family has an interest in coins, swing

by Blue Ridge Coins and Collectibles and pick up a coin book to get them started, free of charge!

in! We’re here to guide you and to share our knowledge, and there is never any pressure to sell your coins or currency,” said Maggie when asked more about coin collecting.

With the Holiday Season right around the corner, what better time to start a new hobby for yourself or for a loved one? Blue Ridge Coins and Collectibles is preparing for Christmas by stocking up on their bullion inventory, which includes silver bullets, creative silver

For more information contact: Blue Ride Coin Shop and Collectibles 1901 Appalachian Highway Dogwood Shopping Plaza Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706.632.3127 www.BlueRidgeCoinShop.com

Above: Kids LOVE collecting coins! This special collector’s book will not only teach them about collecting, but will also keep them busy for hours.

Right: The grown-up kids can start collecting Susan B. Anthony Dollars, Sacagawea Dollars or Lincoln One Cent Coins with these collector’s books.

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Jasper Family Dentistry

Pete Hall

Plumbing, Tile Work & Custom Remodeling

Specializing in Family, Cosmetic & Emergency Dentistry

Dr. Leigh Griffeth Dr. Spencer Griffeth

The Largest Yarn Shop in north Georgia!

Quick | Reasonable | Reliable

A Full Service Family & Cosmetic Dentistry Practice

Exquisite Specialty Yarns of all Fiber Types in Basics to Novelty

Emergency & New Patients Welcome Interest Free Payment Plans

PLUS

Books • Patterns • Needles Notions • Purse Handles

Knit & Crochet Classes for Beginners to Advanced

706.698.KNIT 706. 692. 2646

JasperFamilyDentistry@ellijay.com

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

706. 897. 1231

391 N. Main Street • Jasper, GA

Where the food is scrumptious, the portions generous, the hospitality Southern, and the experiences priceless. We don’t just serve up Southern goodness.

We serve up Southern greatness. Let’s eat!

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

AC LIVING LANDSCAPE & GARDEN

Surviving A Drought Landscape & Garden Editor Kevin Johnson Offers Ten Tips for Hoemowners to Weather the Drought

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What a difference a year makes. On December 24th of last year my family headed to Charlotte NC to attend a family function. As we drove along Hwy 19/129 the previous night’s torrential rains were obvious. Cabins were surrounded from water cresting the banks of Wolf Creek.

A friend of mine said the Toccoa River nearly reached the Shallowford Bridge after several inches of rain fell in a short time. There was plenty of rain in 2015, but now we find ourselves in a drought that began in the spring.

“What is a drought?” Merriam-Webster’s dictionary defines drought as “a period of dryness especially when prolonged; specifically: one that causes extensive damage to crops or prevents their successful growth.” This definition would be the simplest summation of this unusually dry summer that we have been experiencing, and its effects on local agricultural enterprises and even homeowners.

Fannin County, where my family and I live, is currently in exceptional drought. Actually, a great portion of Georgia is in drought– either in extreme or exceptional drought– with no rain in sight. Although fall is the driest time of year in our area, fescue lawns should still be green and lush– instead they are brown and burnt without a drop of soil moisture. Creeks, rivers and lakes are all severely low. Lake Lanier– which supplies Atlanta’s drinking water– is currently 8 ft. below full pool. Lanier hasn’t been this low since the last drought about 4 years ago.

The city of Blairsville recently put an outdoor watering ban into effect for customers on their water system. This means no outside watering of lawns and landscapes and no washing of vehicles allowed because their water system cannot provide enough water to meet the demand. It appears that many other counties will soon put similar restrictions in place. Experts predict this drought to continue well into next year based on current models and forecasts. The question now becomes, how do we maintain our lawns and landscapes during drought and when outdoor watering bans are put in place?

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Drought affects our entire life from water levels in our streams, lakes and rivers, to agriculture and food sources, precious wildlife and even our own lawns and landscapes.

Here are 10 Tips to Help You Weather the Drought • Mow higher to encourage deeper roots. I recommend 5 inches during summer months for fescue lawns. Taller shoots promote deeper roots and a dense canopy can help to reduce ground surface temperatures and conserve moisture.

• Practice grasscycling. Grasscycling is the process of leaving clippings on the lawn at each mowing instead of bagging them. Research shows clippings work their way back into the grass. They act like a mulch at the soil surface, helping reduce moisture loss from the soil.

• Discontinue mowing if the lawn isn’t growing.

• Reduce fertilizer applications until conditions improve. Promoting heavy top growth amidst drought conditions increases water demand.

Reduce rates or postpone fertilizer applications until environmental conditions improve to fully realize the benefits of fertilizer.

• Modify herbicide programs. Many herbicides act upon plant growth processes and can be less effective during periods of drought when weeds are not actively growing.

• If you still have the ability to water, water deeply and infrequently. The optimum watering schedule can be roughly determined by observing the number of days that pass between signs of moisture stress. Apply sufficient water to saturate the root zone to a depth of 6-8 inches.

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

• Water early in the morning to avoid evaporation.

• Keep your landscape mulched 2-3 inches deep to help maintain soil moisture.

• Remember that established landscape plants can sometimes go weeks without water.

• Use water wisely across all aspects of your life.

As population increases it’s only natural that our water levels will decrease. Researchers found a six-fold increase in water use for only a twofold increase in population size in the United States since 1900. This affects everything from our food supply and natural resources to our precious wildlife, and of course your lansdscape.

Those of us who make our living in the Green Industry are very sensitized to the effects of drought and encourage everyone to be more water-wise in their plant (and other) choices.

Thankfully winter is coming, which will take some of the pressure off, but in the meantime, I’ll be praying for rain. 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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September 2016 marked the one year anniversary for Old Toccoa Farm, and what a year it has been for Blue Ridge’s only golf and river community. It’s an incredible journey for the developers, Kevin Hermetz and Peter Knutzen, who with strong support from the local Blue Ridge community, have delivered an exceptional golf experience that everyone in the area can be proud of. Visiting golfers from around the country, along with local golfers who live in the north Georgia area full time, have enjoyed Old Toccoa

WORDS: OLD TOCCOA FARM PHOTOS: JERRY MUCKLOW PHOTOGRAPHY CHRIS HEFFERNEN & FSTOP A PHOTOSHOP

Farm’s exceptional golf course conditions, professional staff and southern hospitality.

When you couple the golf experience with the steady real estate and membership sales over the past year, you realize Old Toccoa Farm is on a path to creating something quite special here. The charm of Blue Ridge continues to draw visitors to the area, and now, the greater Blue Ridge community has another feather in its cap with the addition 16

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Blue Ridge’s Only Golf and River Community A True Sense of Place in a Setting of Simplicity, Quality& Natural Beauty | Blue Ridge, GA

Hole # 6 – 313 yard Par-4

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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Hole #4 – 171 yard Par-3

Old Toccoa Farm, A True Sense of Place

As you pull into the beautifully landscaped entrance at Old Toccoa Farm and slowly make your way to the understated cedar shake and stone gatehouse, you know immediately that this is not the typical north Georgia mountain community. You are greeted by a smiling attendant that is eager to answer your questions and get you to your scheduled visit beyond the gates. As you drive through the gates, you quickly realize you have arrived at a very special place – a community rooted in simplicity, quality and beauty.

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Old Toccoa Farm is comprised of 405+ acres of gently sloped forested ridgelines, and over 4,300 feet of frontage on the world class fishery of the Toccoa River. The community offers property owners the security of a guard-gated entry, Blue Ridge city water, private sewer, underground power, cable television and high speed internet. Home Sites, Cottage Sites and Cabin Sites offer golf, mountain, river and wooded views, each with a specific building envelope ensuring every home is sited properly throughout the residential areas of the community. Architectural guidelines, along with a Preferred Builder list, provides for a high level of construction quality and predictability. Old Toccoa Farm has also published forward-thinking home plans that include smaller footprints and lower maintenance building materials. This approach ensures the community will have the authentic mountain architecture look and feel, while also providing homeowners with lower long-term maintenance costs, which the Managing Partners at Old Toccoa Farm believe will provide added long-term value for the homeowner.

The land here is refreshingly beautiful, and so too is the approach being made by the developer – one of purposeful design and attention to detail.

For those seeking a closer connection with nature and a simpler way of life with friends and family, you will find it right here at Old Toccoa Farm.

Embrace the Active Lifestyle

Situated centrally between the 700,000+ acre Chattahoochee and 655,000+ acre Cherokee National Forests, Old Toccoa Farm provides its members and guests with a convenient “base camp” for all activities in the Blue Ridge area. Kayak or raft the Ocoee Whitewater, hike the Benton MacKaye and Appalachian Trail, swim and ski in Lake Blue Ridge, take art classes at the Blue Ridge Arts Center or Gartrell Gallery and Artist’s Studios, or delve into culinary classes in downtown Blue Ridge. Other pursuits, such as sporting clays at nearby by Noontootla Creek Farms, horseback riding, zip-lining, mountain biking and or road biking through the beautiful mountain roads here in Fannin County, are always great options to enjoy in the area. Culturally rich experiences and invigorating outdoor pursuits, are all within reach of Old Toccoa Farm.

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Ambleside Cottage

If volunteerism is your passion, there are numerous organizations to choose from. Old Toccoa Farm has a deep passion for children in need and supports The Open Arms Home for Children, active and veteran men and women of our armed forces are supported through Old Toccoa Farm’s affiliation with Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, and many members are taking an active role fostering and caring for our local animals through the Blue Ridge Humane Society. Old Toccoa Farm is well connected within the Blue Ridge community, and along with many of its members, takes an active role supporting each of these great causes. Visit the “giving back” tab on the Old Toccoa Farm website to learn more about these important outreach programs.

While Old Toccoa Farm serves as a base camp for a wide selection of activities and pursuits offered throughout the Blue Ridge area, on property activities currently include over 3 miles of scenic walking trails, river activities such as fly fishing, kayaking and canoeing, or place yourself at one of our “gathering areas” and simply take in the beauty of the Farm.

Old Toccoa Farm Golf

A short drive past the gate and a beautiful overlook welcomes you to the unique “links look” of the golf course. The viewing corridor delivers a double green, deep bunkers bordered by tall native grasses and fairways that look like the superintendent laid out velvet. You haven’t arrived at the golf shop yet, but you already know that golf here at Old Toccoa Farm is going to be special. It is defined by nature’s infinite presence and as the elements change, so must your game. Mastery of the ground game becomes a more important skill than raw power. The ingenious and inventive player is rewarded with multiple options on nearly every shot.

Amongst the massive bunkers and hardwoods, you’ll discover golf in its purest state– where nature is embraced, not conquered– and where the traditions of a time-honored game yield to an experience unlike any other.

Old Toccoa Farm currently offers an exceptional golfing experience that includes a well maintained driving range, practice putting and chipping areas, a unique 9-hole family par-3 course (scheduled to open in the spring of 2017), and plans are in the works to complete the remaining 9-holes by mid-summer 2017.

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Membership to Old Toccoa Farm

A growing number of families and individuals are enjoying membership privileges at Old Toccoa Farm. Over the past year, the Membership has grown to over 160 members, and plans are being put together to double the membership when construction of the final 9-holes gets underway.

Over the summer and in early fall, Old Toccoa Farm hosted its first Member-Guest Tournament and Member-Member Tournament, each well attended and enjoyed by all participants. Other golf related activities such as the 9 & Dine have also been well received the members. The 9 & Dine brings golfing couples together for 9-holes of golf and then post golf, the members meet at a designated restaurant in Blue Ridge for dinner. It’s a great way for members to meet new members and enjoy the social scene and charm of downtown Blue Ridge.

Other members are getting together for long walks on the 3.8 miles of scenic walking trails, and over the summer many members frequently kayaked the 4.5 miles of Toccoa River from the Lake Blue Ridge dam to Old Toccoa Farm. Plans are in place for some art focused winter activities for members, including pottery, learning how to draw, and painting classes at both the Gartrell Gallery and Artist’s Studios and the Arts Center located in downtown Blue Ridge. Families with young children have plenty to do as well, including youth art classes, local community garden programs, fly fishing and trail hiking programs and more.

Cottages, Cabins & Architecture

The Old Toccoa Farm building program celebrates thoughtful design of smaller homes and outbuildings that blend with their natural settings.

Materials such as cedar shake, board and batten and stone are woven into a collection of pre-designed smaller footprint cottages and cabins that range in size from 1,250 SF to 2,100 SF. These attractive designs minimize longterm maintenance, while providing open floors for gathering with friends and family. This common sense approach to home design, while not compromising quality, creates truly tangible value for our owners.

Whether you’re interested in primary, secondary or investment home ownership, there are plenty of options available at Old Toccoa Farm.

Cottage, Cabin and Custom Home sites are affordably priced from

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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FALL HAS ARRIVED AT

North Georgia Furniture & Home Decor

Rustic American Bar & Grill Regional & Seasonal Fare

It is our goal to deliver comfort, style and quality furniture, bedding and accessories at very competitive prices.

We pride ourselves in delivering American made products whenever possible!

Like many good things in life, NORTH GEORGIA FURNITURE & HOME DECOR is a little hard to find, but certainly worth the effort!

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

2142 Tails Creek Road, Ellijay GA 30540

My Paw Paw Will Save You Money!

Located 2 miles from Dairy Queen on Highway 282 in Ellijay

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

chestersblueridge.com

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

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

1901 Appalachian Hwy Blue Ridge, GA In the Dogwood Plaza

Come Experience a Taste of Heaven

706. 632. 3127

706. 635. WINE [9463] 127 Lakeview Road Ellijay, GA 30540

www.BlueRidgeCoinShop.com 20

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Tasting Room Hours Seven Days a Week: 12:30pm – 6pm

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

www.engelheim.com

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Hole # 1 – 350 yard Par-4

$60,000 and construction costs are anticipated to range from $150 to $180 a square foot.

“We had been evaluating mountain communities for several years, and while we knew Blue Ridge was where we wanted to be, we just could not find a community that aligned with our complete list of requirements.

That all changed after our real estate agent at Harry Norman, Realtors introduced us to Old Toccoa Farm. We met the Managing Partners, Kevin Hermetz and Peter Knutzen, and after listening to their vision and development principles, along with seeing the quality of work and progress made since they purchased the property, we had the confidence to move forward with a purchase. The beauty of the property and river, the attention to detail on work completed to date, and the relationship we established with them, convinced us that this was indeed “the place” for us. We look forward to breaking ground on our Cottage this fall so we can enjoy the summer of 2017 at Old Toccoa Farm.”

–Cottage Site Buyers Ted & Cathy Day – Atlanta

Old Toccoa Farm & Downtown Blue Ridge

The charming and historic downtown of Blue Ridge is really coming of age. In fact, the town’s irresistible energy has earned it the distinction as “Georgia’s Top Renaissance City.” Bar and grill style food, fine dining and local breweries set the stage for a laid back mountain vibe that is highly contagious. The town is full of day-trippers and families up for long weekends, and that’s what gives Blue Ridge such a unique pulse. You just have to visit to experience it for yourself. It’s a great town and there are many new businesses and ventures underway for 2016.

Here are some of the more popular restaurants and shops in downtown Blue Ridge.

Restaurants & Breweries– Chester Brunnemeyer’s Bar and Grill, the Blue Ridge Brewery, Cucina Rustica, Blue Jeans Pizza and Pasta Factory, Black Sheep, Harvest on Main, Joes BBQ, The Sweet Shoppe of the South, Grumpy Old Men Brewery, and Fannin Brewing Company.

Clothing– Canoe, Blue Ridge Cotton Company, Presents of Mine, Ballard’s Shoes, and River Gypsy.

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Adventure Gear– The Blue Ridge Fly Shop, Oyster Fine Bamboo Fly Rods and, Blue Ridge Mountain Outfitters.

Arts– Gartrell Gallery and Artist’s Studios, Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association (The Art Center), Blue Ridge Community Theater, High Country Art, Pezrock, and many other galleries, and antique establishments.

Also not to be missed– The Ocoee Whitewater Center, Noontootla Creek Farms and Lake Blue Ridge Marina, which has a new lakefront bar & grill! ACLM

For more information on Old Toccoa Farm please contact us: Sales – 706.946.4663 Golf – 706.946.4653 Email: info@oldtf.com Web: oldtoccoafarm.com Follow us on Facebook!

Sales & Golf Course Old Toccoa Farm 596 Curtis Switch Road Mineral Bluff, GA 30559 706.946.4653 (Tee-Time/Pro Shop)

Photos by: Jerry Mucklow Photography 770. 713. 6917 | jerrymucklow.com Chris Heffernen & FStop a Photoshop 706. 632. 6200 | fstopaphotoshop.com

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

AC LIVING RECIPES

HAVE YOU BEEN

Naughty

Nice?

OR

If you’ve been nice then you’ve nothing to worry about, but if you’ve been naughty– Beware the Krampus!

While St. Nick hands out sweets and treats to the goodie-twoshoes, his evil twin, Krampus, punishes the rest of us by way of a beating with his switch broom or wrapping us in chains.

Naughty or nice the folks at Blue Ridge Brewery hope you enjoy these

WORDS & PHOTOS: POLINA WALKER WOOD SCULPTURE: PAT WALKER FOR THE BLUE RIDGE BREWERY

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Holiday offerings.

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

SHOP L OCAL

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BLUE RIDGE COMMUNITY THEATER PRESENTS

The ChriSTmaS BenCh

Musical Comedy.

Two men wait on a bench in the mall while their wives shop.

November 25th - December 11th Fridays & Saturdays 7:30 PM Sundays at 2 PM

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

Beginners to Experts | Special Events | Groups & Parties

Saddle: 706.408.RIDE & Soar: 706.946.1010 Sunny D TheaTer PreSenTS DiSney’S BeauTy & The BeaST A modern day version of the Disney Classic film.

February 3rd - February 12th Fridays & Saturdays 7:30 PM Sundays at 2 PM

www.blueridgemountaintrailridesathellshollow.com | www.blueridgecanopyadventure.com For Tickets or Membership call 706-635-5605 or visit the Gilmer Arts Office & Gallery at 207 Dalton Street in Ellijay.

You Won’t Want to Miss These Multiple Grammy Award Winners!

An All-Star Great American Western Music Band!

BACK IN THE SADDLE Saturday, Jan. 7th 7:30 PM

Award-Winning Family Bluegrass Band.

THE BAND KELLEY Saturday, Jan. 21st 7:30 PM

Gospel Special Jan. 22nd 2pm

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/LIVEMUSICISBETTER

SEASON TICKETS

MAKE GREAT HOLIDAY GIFTS!

B.E.S.T. Series Proudly Presents

B.E.S.T. Series Proudly Presents

B.E.S.T. Series Proudly Presents

KATHY MATTEA

JIMMY WEBB

JOHN JORGENSON BLUEGRASS BAND

An Iconic Country Music Star since 1983, a two-time Grammy winner, four-time ACA winner and winner of three CMA awards

America’s Favorite Grammy award winning songwriter, composer and singer known worldwide as a master of his trade

February 18, 2017 7:30 pm Ellijay Elementary Auditorium Advance tickets $27

March 11, 2017 7:30 pm Ellijay Elementary Auditorium Advance tickets $27

J2B2: All-star bluegrass supergroup featuring four legendary, Grammy award winning musicians April 8, 2017 7:30 pm Ellijay Elementary Auditorium Advance tickets $27

2591 EAST 1ST STREET • BLUE RIDGE, GA

706. 632. 9223

BUY ONLINE @ WWW.BLUERIDGECOMMUNITYTHEATER.COM 24

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

AC LIVING RECIPES Originating in Germanic folklore as early as the 1600s, Krampus is believed to be a beastial creature who accompanies St. Nicholas on his earthly journey. On December 6th St. Nicholas rewards the good children with gifts and sweets, while his counter-part, Krampus– a half goat, half demon creature, carrying rusty chains and sticks– dispenses punishment to the wicked children who have strayed from the path of good.

It is said he takes care of St. Nick’s “naughty list.”

Krampus is making a comeback now, thanks partly to a “bah, humbug” attitude in pop culture, with people searching for ways to celebrate the yuletide season in non-traditional ways.

Nice Hazelnut Cookies Ingredients 3/4 cup butter, softened 1/2 cup granulated sugar 2 cups all purpose flour 1 cup hazelnut meal such as Bob’s Red Mill 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup heavy cream 1 tablespoon vanilla extract Confectioners’ sugar for serving Preparation In a large bowl, with mixer on medium speed, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

In a separate bowl whisk together flour, hazelnut meal and salt.

Naughty Coal in Your Stocking Cocktail Ingredients 0.5 oz. Frangelico 1.5 oz. Willett Pot Still Reserve Bourbon 0.5 oz. Ancho Reyes chili Liqueur Activated Charcoal Preparation Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass.

Add Ice and stir until properly diluted.

Strain into a martini glass. Garnish with Lime twist. Serve to someone naughty.

Add heavy cream and vanilla, knead lightly.

Unwrap and cut into 1/4 inch slices. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 375 for 12 to 15 minutes, rotating cookie sheets halfway through. Remove to wire racks to cool.

Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired. Serve to someone nice.

Blue Ridge Brewery 187 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA 706. 632. 6611 www.blueridgebrewery.com Serving great food, craft beer, fine wine and top shelf alcohol.

Open Wednesday through Saturday 11:00am – 9:00pm Blue Ridge Brewery Gift Cards, T-shirts & Pint Glasses make great Krampus gifts!

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Ingredients 2 cups whole almonds 1/4 cup white sugar 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 3 tablespoons honey 3 tablespoons water 1 tablespoon almond oil Preparation Spread almonds in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in a cold oven.

Turn oven on to 350 degrees. Bake almonds, stirring occasionally, until light tan, 12 to 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, mix sugar and salt together in a small bowl; sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of the sugar mixture into a large bowl.

Gradually add flour mixture to creamed butter until well blended.

Shape into a roll 2 1/2 inches in diameter. Wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for several hours or overnight.

Naughty & Nice Honey Roasted Almonds

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Stir honey, water and almond oil together in a saucepan; bring to a boil. Add almonds; cook and stir until almonds have absorbed all the liquid, about 5 minutes.

Transfer coated almonds to large bowl sprinkled with sugar mixture. Sprinkle remaining sugar mixture over almonds; toss to coat evenly.

Spread almonds onto waxed paper to cool completely. Store at room temperature in a tightly covered container or plastic bag.

Serve to someone nice and naughty.

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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 10/15 – 01/07 AIR 4th Qtr – Connie Gaertner Connie Gaertneris an award winning artist from Knoxville, TN. Connie is a juried member of The American Impressionist Society, Oil Painters of America, and Women Painters of the Southeast. Opening reception will be October 15, 5-7pm.

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

11/11 11/8 – 12/22 Members Holiday Show & Sale Canton, GA. This show has the gifts you need! All crafts & artwork will be $100 and under!

All of the pieces are done by our very talented group of Member Artists. Tuesday - Friday 11AM to 5PM and Saturday 12PM to 5PM. Cherokee Arts Center 94 North St., Canton, GA 30114.

Info: 770.704.6244 or www. cherokeearts.org 11/19 – 01/03 Holiday Show & Sale Blue Ridge, GA. Come shop for that perfect creative and unique holiday gift. Gift Certificates are available. Opening reception will be November 19, 6-9pm.

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

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11/26 Holiday Open House at the Art Center Blue Ridge, GA. Bring your list and check it twice! You are sure to find something for everyone on your list in one of our many galleries. Enjoy refreshments, artwork and good cheer. Gift Certificates are available. 11:00 am - 5:00 pm. Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, 420 Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA. Visit www.blueridgearts.net or call 706-632-2144.

EVENTS Every First Friday Canton Main Street First Fridays Enjoy a different theme each month. Music, vendors and shops open late. 6pm – 9pm.

Free! Cannon Park, 130 East Main Street, Canton, GA 30114.

Historic Downtown Loop, 770704-1548. Visit www.cantonhdl. com/calendar 11/24 – 01/1 Mountain Country Christmas Festival of Lights Georgia Mountain FairgroundsHiawassee, GA. Enjoy outdoor Mountain Country Christmas Festival of Lights. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds - 1311 Music Rd.- Hiawassee, GA. Website: www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com or 706896-4191.

11/25 Light Up Ellijay- Return to Whoville Historic Downtown Ellijay.

Return to Whoville and stop the Grinch from stealing Christmas!

Live music, craft vendors, and food from local restaurants on the square beginning at 4 p.m.

Parade ushers in Santa Claus at 6 p.m. Lighting of the tree immediately afterward. For information visit www.gilmerchamber.com or call 706-635-7400 11/25 Blue Friday Downtown Blue Ridge. Holiday shopping with Christmas Carols, Special Blue Friday sales and discounts. Gingerbread Village at Hampton Square, Elves and Christmas characters. Horse and

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

NORTH GEORGIA'S GUIDE TO AREA

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

Carriage Rides and children’s activities in the park. Info: Blue Ridge Business Association 706-455-0216 or www.bestofblueridge.biz 11/25 - 11/26 & 12/2 - 12/3 First Annual Merry Mountain Market Blue Ridge, GA. Over 30 hand selected regional/local vendors offering food, arts and crafts.

Free admission! 9am- 5pm. 3 Monkeys auction house 2380 East First St., Blue Ridge, GA. Call 904-403-1298 or 239-2930772. Email: asthecrowflies. ga@gmail.com 11/26 Light Up Blue Ridge Downtown Blue Ridge. Annual arrival of Santa & Lighting of the big tree. Beginning at 10:30am music on the Main Stage, Santa arrives on the train at 11:30am and the parade starts at Noon!

Lighting of the tree around 7:00 pm. For information email: cindy@trimblekellystudios.com Entertainment: kcarey@tds.net or 706-889-7415 11/26 Trash to Treasures Holiday Shopping Blairsville, GA. 40+ vendors: knives, jewelry, clothing, health & beauty products and more.

Union County Civic Center, 165 Wellborn Street, Blairsville, GA 30512.

12/1 – 12/31 Tour of Trees Blairsville, GA. Over 30 beautifully decorated trees and wreaths on display. Monday - Friday: 9am - 5pm Saturday: 10am-1pm. Free! Sponsored by the Union County Lions Club. Blairsville Union County Chamber of Commerce, 129 Union County Rec Rd, Blairsville, GA. Info: 877-745-5789.

12/3 Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting on the Square Blairsville, GA. Enjoy the parade then stay for the tree lighting ceremony afterward. Presented by the Union County Historical Society. 4 – 5:30 pm. Free.

On the square in Downtown Blairsville, Georgia. Visit www. unioncountyhistory.org

12/3 Night of Lights Celebration & Parade Downtown Jasper, GA. Live music, tons of vendors, and pictures with Santa Claus all starting at 4pm. The Parade of Lights begins promptly at 6pm with lots of awesome floats.

Parade theme: Christmas on the Water. Visit www.knowpickens. com or call 706-692-1164.

12/3 Murphy Hometown Christmas Parade Murohy, NC. Downtown Murphy. Crafts, food, entertainment, and parade. Free! 2 5pm. For more information call Barbara Hughes: 828-837-6821.

12/10 Christmas Open House Dawsonville, GA. Christmas Crafts, Visit with Santa, Snacks provided. Amicalola Falls Adventure Lodge, 418 Amicalola Falls Lodge Road, Dawsonville, GA 30534. Visit www.amicalolafallslodge.com 12/31 New Year’s Eve Train Blue Ridge, GA. The special New Year’s Eve Celebration train will depart Blue Ridge at 10:00pm on New Year’s Eve and returns at approximately 12:30am.

Receive party favors, adult beverages and an appetizer tray. Entertainment by Scotty Paulk and Noah Sampson. Party favors, adult beverages and an appetizer tray and a special sparkling wine to toast in the New Year! Make your reservations early. For tickets and info: Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad, www.brscenic.com or call 706632-8724.

12/31 New Year’s Eve Bash Downtown Jasper, GA. Bring in the New Year brought to you by the City of Jasper and Pickens County Chamber of Commerce.

7pm. Free! For info: email info@ knowpickens.com phone 706692-1164 or www.knowpickens.com

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

12/31 New Year’s Eve Party Dawsonville, GA. Ring in the New Year at our beautiful lodge.

Reservations required. Amicalola Falls Adventure Lodge, 418 Amicalola Falls Lodge Road, Dawsonville, GA 30534. Visit www.amicalolafallslodge.com or (706)-344-1505 12/31 23rd Annual New Year’s Eve Possum Drop Brasstown, NC. Ring in the New Year with a Miss Possum Contest, bluegrass music, Little Brasstown Church Choir, the Blessing, cider and good clean fun. Free! 10pm. For more information call: 828-837-3797.

2/18 7th Annual Fire & Ice Chili Cook Off Blue Ridge, GA. Featuring Live Music and entertainment. An amazing display of unique ice sculptures from the award winning, National Ice Carving Champion “Rock on Ice” including several ice carving demonstrations. For info call 706-2582432 or visit bestofblueridge.biz 2/25 Bringin’ the Blues to Blue Ridge Blue Ridge, GA. Celebrate Mardis Gras with the Rollin’ Bones! Masks, Cajun Food, 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.

KIDS OF ALL AGES 11/27 – 12/24 Santa Express Train RideBlue Ridge Scenic Railway Blue Ridge, GA. Featuring “Twas the Night Before Christmas”.

Daytime fun-filled trip with Santa. Enjoy “Twas the Night Before Christmas” Christmas story, sing Christmas Carols, visit with Christmas characters and Santa. Each child receives a traditional BRSR memento, BRSR Christmas DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

AC LIVING CALENDAR Activity Book and a candy cane.

Approximately 1.25-Hour Trip Time - Enclosed Climate Control ONLY. Please check the TRAIN SCHEDULE for dates and times.

Reservations are encouraged.

For tickets and info: Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad, www.brscenic. com or call 706-632-8724.

11/25 – 12/17 Santa Pavilion Night Train Blue Ridge, GA. Late afternoon departure (4:00 PM) for the 4 hour train ride. Santa visits each car and gives each child a Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Christmas memento and candy cane.

Santa will pose with the passengers for pictures on the train or in the Christmas Pavilion during the 2-hour layover. Eat and shop the little stores and antique shops in McCaysville/Copperhill.

Depart: 4:00 PM Returns: 8:00 PM. Please check the TRAIN SCHEDULE for various dates and times. Reservations are strongly encouraged. For tickets and info: Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad, www.brscenic.com or call 706632-8724.

11/27 – 12/11 Santa Pavilion Day Train Blue Ridge, GA. Noon departure- 4hr train ride. Santa visits each car and gives each child a Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Christmas memento and candy cane. Santa will pose with the passengers for pictures on the train or in the Christmas Pavilion during the 2-hour layover. Eat and shop the little stores and antique shops in McCaysville/ Copperhill. Depart: Noon. Please check the TRAIN SCHEDULE for dates and times. Reservations are encouraged. For tickets and info: Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad, www.brscenic.com or call 706632-8724.

12/2 & 12/9 Let It Snow, Rollins Planetarium Young Harris, GA. This family friendly show features holiday classics from Frank Sinatra and Chuck Berry to Burl Ives and Brenda Lee, and a stunning multimedia finale by the TransSiberian Orchestra. Enhanced with animation and full-dome holiday scenery, it’s a fun experience for audiences of all ages.

7pm. Rollins Planetarium, Young Harris College. Tickets online or at the show: http://www.yhc. edu/academics/math-science/ rollins-planetarium/publicshows

12/2 & 12/9 Season of Light, Rollins Planetarium Young Harris, GA. This holiday favorite is a show about the coldest and darkest of seasons—a time which holds some of the warmest and brightest celebrations of the year. The show explores the traditions surrounding the world’s most endearing holiday customs, all of which involve lighting up the winter season— from the burning Yule log and the lighting of luminarias, to sparkling Christmas tree lights and candles in windows. The program also explores possible astronomical explanations for the star that led the Wise Men to Bethlehem. 8pm. Rollins Planetarium, Young Harris College. Tickets online or at the show: http://www.yhc.edu/academics/math-science/rollinsplanetarium/public-shows 12/3 Kris Kringle Mountain Market Blairsville, GA. Enjoy a visit to the European Outdoor Holiday Market right here in the North Georgia Mountains! Music, children’s area. 75+ vendors with produce, arts/crafts, delicious food creations, bonfire with S’mores. 10am – 3pm. Union County Farmers Market 148 Old Smokey Rd Blairsville, GA. Visit www.ucfarmersmarket.com 12/10 Award-winning Children’s Author, Kelly Bingham Ellijay, GA. Gilmer Arts, together with the Gilmer County Library, is proud to present Kelly Bingham--Ellijay’s own, awardwinning author of children’s books and books for young adults. 1pm – 2pm. Free! Gilmer County Library, 268 Calvin Jackson Dr, Ellijay, GA 30540.

For info: Gilmer Arts www.gilmerarts.org, or (706) 635-5605.

12/10 Holly Jolly Christmas and Tour of Trees Blairsville, GA. Beautiful decorated trees, face painting, storytelling, children’s crafts, musical performances, and refreshments. 3pm – 6pm. Free! Union County Community Center 129 Union County Rec Rd Blairsville, GA. Contact: 706-745-5789 or visit www.VisitBlairsvilleGA.com 12/10 Christmas Tree Lighting at Vogel State Park Blairsville, GA. Sponsored by the Union County Sheriff’s Department. Bring an unwrapped gift for kids of 0-12

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

years of age. Tree lighting, caroling, hayrides, and Santa Clause. No toy guns, knives, or dangerous items. 4pm – 7pm.

Parking $5. Vogel State Park U S Hwy 19/129S (11 miles south of Blairsville) Blairsville, GA. Contact: 706-745-2628 or www.gastateparks.org 12/10 Royal Winter Ball Jasper, GA. Bring your little one to an Enchanting Evening with their favorite Princess Friends.

Dancing, singing, photo-ops, storytime, and plenty of magic.

Proceeds benefit children in Pickens County, hosted by the Picken’s Community Service Club. Royal Attire encouraged! $10 per ticket. 6pm – 8pm.

Madeline’s Cafe & Bakery, 1052 E Church St, Jasper, Georgia 30143. Tickets: pickenscommunityserviceclub@gmail.com

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

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 Fridays Thru Dec Vineyard View Tapas & Acoustics Crane Creek Vineyards Tapas is now on our decks next to the Tasting Room! The menu is a la carte. Prices range from $4-$12. Wine is sold by the glass or by the bottle. Crane Creek Vineyards, 916 Crane Creek Rd, Young Harris, GA 30582. For info: 706-379-1236 or www.cranecreekvineyards. com Saturdays & Sundays Chateau Meichtry Live Music in the Ole Green House. 1:30pm – 5:30pm.

Saturdays and Sundays. Tasting, wines by the glass, a fabulous view, live music and great company. Open 7 days a week: MonSat 11am -6pm, Sun 12:30pm -5:30pm. Call 706.502.1608 or visit: http://chateaumeichtry. com 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, spon-

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taneous 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 11/26 Tuba Christmas Downtown Blue Ridge. Join us for our Annual Tuba Christmas.

This is a national organization with chapters all over the country. Concert is free, and is part of the Light Up Blue Ridge festivities. See 30 to 40 Tuba players all decked out for Christmas play your favorite Christmas songs. Concert begins at 12:00 noon. Contact Keith Jones - kjonz@etcmail. com, 706-258-8329 or www. tubachristmas.com 11/28 – 11/29 Young Harris Christmas Concert.

YHC’s Concert Band, Concert Choir and Chamber Choir will get into the Christmas spirit at this beloved annual concert.

Glenn Auditorium at Young Harris College. 7pm. Contact: Young Harris College 706379-5182 or www.yhc.edu/ academics/fine-arts/music/ performances 12/2 & 12/4 Sounds of Christmas Young Harris College. Glenn Auditorium at Young Harris College. Friday 7pm, Sunday 3pm. Contact: Young Harris College 706-379-5182 or www. yhc.edu/academics/fine-arts/ music/performances 12/3 University of North Georgia Choral Holiday Performance.

Blue Ridge. Enjoy the beautiful sounds of the North Georgia Choral Group as they present a beautiful holiday performance inside the Art Center!

2pm -4pm. FREE! Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, 420 Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA. Visit www.blueridgearts.net or call 706-632-2144.

12/8 Cherry Log Pickin’ Ellijay, GA. Blue Grass Pickin’ featuring local talent. Free!

Dinner at 5:30pm, Music at 6:30. NEW LOCATION: Gilmer Senior Center, 111 Gilmer St., Downtown Ellijay. Contact: 706/635-3786.

12/10 Community Chorus Holiday Concert Ellijay, GA. Enjoy your Holiday favorites with us! 7pm – 8:30pm.

Tickets $10. Gilmer High School

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AC LIVING CALENDAR Theatre, 408 Bobcat Trail, Ellijay, GA 30540. Visit www.gilmerarts. org.

gamtfair@windstream.net 706-896-4191 www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com

12/16 Patriotic Country Christmas with Lee Greenwood & Lorrie Morgan Hiawassee GA. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. Tickets 7:00PM. Level 1: $41.00 + $2.00 Handling Level 2: $31.00 + $2.00 Handling. Contact: 1311 Music Hall Road, P.O. Box 444, Hiawassee, GA 30546 gamtfair@windstream.net 706-896-4191 www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com

1/22 The Band Kelley Blue Ridge, GA. Live Music is Better Series. Special Gospel perfromance. 2pm. Blue Ridge Community Theater, 2591 E. First Street. For Tickets and Info call 706-632-9223 or visit www.blueridgecommunitytheater.com

12/20 Old Fashioned Christmas Caroling on the Square Blairsville, GA. Join us for some old-fashioned Christmas Caroling in downtown Blairsville.

Sing with us or sit and enjoy the sounds of the season! 5:30 – 6:30pm. Free! Downtown Blairsville on the Square.

Contact Darren E. Harper c 706.347.3503 1/7 Back In The Saddle Blue Ridge, GA. Live Music is Better Series. All Star Western Music band whose energetic shows delight fans of all ages.

Their shows include classic Cowboy songs, Western Swing, Movie & TV Western theme songs, originals inspired by the West and even some Tin Pan Alley standards. 7:30 pm. Blue Ridge Community Theater, 2591 E. First Street. For Tickets and Info call 706-632-9223 or visit www.blueridgecommunitytheater.com 1/21 The Band Kelley Blue Ridge, GA. Live Music is Better Series. A multi-award winning family bluegrass band of four siblings. Recent winners of the 2015 Jeff and Sheri Easter Talent Competition, four time winners of the GeorgiaSouth Carolina State Talent Compeition, and 2nd place Georgia State Fiddle Champion.

7:30 pm. Blue Ridge Community Theater, 2591 E. First Street.

For Tickets and Info call 706632-9223 or visit www.blueridgecommunitytheater.com 1/13 38 Special Hiawassee GA. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. Tickets 7:00PM. Level 1: $45.00 + $2.00 Handling. Level 2: $35.00 + $2.00 Handling. Contact: 1311 Music Hall Road, P.O. Box 444, Hiawassee, GA 30546

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THEATER 11/25 – 12/11 The Christmas Bench Blue Ridge, GA. Two men, one older, one younger, sit on a bench during the Christmas shopping season, waiting for their wives. Christmas happens around them; the Mall players present “A Christmas Carol,” a homeless man tells a bizarre tale, then sings “O Holy Night,” A greeter at the department store, recites a portion of “A Child’s Chanukka in Pittsburgh”, and one of the men turns out to be not quite who we think he is. Thur - Sat - 7:30 pm; Sun 2:00pm. Blue Ridge Community Theater, 2591 E. First Street.

For Tickets and Info call 706632-9223 or visit www.blueridgecommunitytheater.com 11/25 – 12/11 In-Laws, Outlaws And Other People (Who Should Be Shot) Ellijay, GA. The holidays have never been so funny! The Douglas family is busily preparing for their annual Christmas Eve dinner. After robbing a neighborhood liquor store, high strung Tony, and his dim-witted side-kick Vinny, find themselves in need of a hide-out. A comic treasure that is sure to leave your audience in stitches while celebrating the true meaning of Christmas. 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.

12/2 & 3 Live Theatre “Sanders Family Christmas” Ellijay, GA. A delightful Christmas musical and sing-along , Sanders Family Christmas is the sequel to gospel musical Smoke on the Mountain. It’s December 24, 1941, and America is going to war. So is Dennis Sanders of the Sanders Family Singers.

Join Pastor Mervin Oglethorpe and the rest of the Sanders Family as they send Dennis

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off with hilarious and touching stories and twenty-five Southern Gospel Christmas favorites. Fri - Sat 7:00 p.m. Tickets $15.75 Member $17.50 Non-Member.

Gilmer High School Auditorium, Ellijay, GA. Info: Gilmer Arts 706-635-5605 or www.gilmerarts.org 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.

WINE & BEER TASTINGS Ongoing 7 Days a Week Cartecay Vineyards 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 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 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

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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 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 Saturdays Thru Dec Vine Keeper’s Kitchen and Winery Tours Crane Creek Vineyards Each Saturday a single, simple, farm-fresh lunch option will be available. As always, we offer a selection of Sweetwater Valley Farm cheeses and a selection of crackers daily. Crane Creek Vineyards, 916 Crane Creek Rd, Young Harris, GA 30582. For info: 706-379-1236 or www. cranecreekvineyards.com 12/21 Winter Solstice Party Young Harris, GA. An annual event to thank our loyal customers at Crane Creek Vineyards where we send off the longest night with a bonfire and look forward to the coming of spring!

6pm -8pm. Free admission, includes complimentary chili bar.

Wine available for purchase by the glass and the bottle. Crane Creek Vineyards 916 Crane Creek Road Young Harris, GA 30582. Contact: 706-379-1236 or www.cranecreekvineyards. com 12/31 Crane Creek New Year’s Eve Party Young Harris, GA. A party you won’t want to miss! Ring in the New Year with CCV staff.

5 course meal, open bar and live music. Reservations required. *$75.00+ tax per guest. Please call 706-379-1236 or email info@cranecreekvineyards.com to reserve a spot.

See website for full menu and theme: www.cranecreekvineyards.com

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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

Horse Thieves, Pettifoggers, Regulators and Vigilantes

T

Towns sprung up across the South East Frontier around the possibility of gold mine finds. These towns consisted of a store, a post office, and of course, the saloon. Some “dandy” lawyer would find his way west in search of the prestige that comes from running for the office of sheriff or mayor, serving sometimes in both capacities as well as being legal counselor.

The “pettifogger” as they were referred to was someone who knew just enough about the law to employ dubious practices to his benefit. He was often full of deceit and trickery, pocketing the fines levied upon the defendant or offender, and then charging them his legal fee on top of it the town fine. The “pettifoggers” rambled from town to village, going wherever the action seemed best, and henceforth, people began to distrust lawyers.

This type of thieving had no ethnic, political or national boundaries. The Georgia Colonial records show dozens of cases of all sorts of thievery being propitiated upon the citizens from the coastal colony to the Georgia Frontier and beyond. These thefts could be whatever sort of goods one had, from clothing to the horse complete with bridal and saddle. Most often it was livestock or foodstuffs and travelers were regularly robbed of whatever goods they had.

The frontier farms, whether owned by whites or Indians, were targeted often. Those traveling along the Federal Road were frequently accosted as they took their stock to markets in Tennessee and beyond, but more so after they collected the money from the sale. Thievery was not always necessary to survive; it was just another occupation or way of life.

Horses were the most prevalent theft along the frontier. Used as pack animals and the major 30

form of transportation, horses were a must for survival in this inhospitable land. Indian agencies required items such as pots, pans, knives and rifles for their own use and to be brought in for trade with the Indians who furnished the agency with goods that were wanted back east: furs and hand made leather articles such as horse tack.

Traveling in groups afforded no protection on the free range. Thieves would often steal the horses from the nightly encampment and ransack the wagons. Many incidents occurred in broad daylight with as much cunning as an actor upon a stage. One such incident recorded near Milledgeville Georgia was of a white man who questioned

the abilities of a Creek Indian who owned two horses. They decided to race the two horses to test their strength. One man mounted one horse while the Creek man road the other. They raced headlong down the main street of Milledgeville.

When they reached the predetermined finish line the white man kept on riding and disappeared into the hills.

In the early 1800’s, Creek Indian agent Benjamin Hawkins devised a method of branding horses with a different letter for each state of North and South Carolinas, Tennessee and Georgia from the coastal territories to the west, bordering the Mississippi River. He hoped that such a system could help identify the origins of horses should they show up in Creek county.

This method would go a long way towards settling disputes of ownership when the horses were retrieved. However the method was not readily accepted and implemented at that time and horse stealing continued to run rampant.

Counterfeiting and horse stealing were often linked. Horse thieves organized themselves into gangs, stealing horses in one area and disposing of them hundreds of miles away, preferably across

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Above: Horse thieves were often at the mercy of vigilantes.

Below: Fort Hawkins in Macon, GA was established in 1806 by President Thomas Jefferson and Indian Agent Col. Benjamin Hawkins (left) as an official U.S. Army Fort and Indian Factory for trading and meeting with Native Americans. state lines. For obvious reasons, counterfeiting operations were best carried on in the same way, and it was simple to combine the two occupations. The link between counterfeiting and horse theft had an effect on the distribution of regulator and vigilante movements. Therefore, these groups, dedicated to fighting exorbitant legal fees and the corruption of appointed officials in the frontier, as well as those who punished horse thieves, tended to be found in wilderness areas, closer to state lines, or nearer Indian villages. 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/ DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

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