Appalachian Country Living Magazine April-May 2018 by Appalachian Country Living Magazine

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2018

LAKE ARROWHEAD. LIVE THE DREAM.

THE MOST COMPLETE LIST OF 2018 SPRING & SUMMER FESTIVALS

RUN FOR THE ROSES RECIPES FOR THE PERFECT DERBY PARTY

LADYBUG VS. ASIAN BEETLE- KNOW THE DIFFERENCE

Discover the NEW north Georgia mountains at Covered Bridge Estates in Ellijay, GA.

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

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

Community Features · Professionally planned community · Gated entrance w/cameras · Homesites starting in mid 20's · 1 to 3-acre build-able homesites

Contact Mike Kunkel at 706-669-4177

NEW

FEATURE HOMES ER

CO NSTRU

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

or mike@estatesatcoveredbridge.com Or Visit www.estatesatcoveredbridge.com

“You Marry the Girl– We’ll Furnish the Home!” Rustic Cabin Furniture FINANCING 0 Traditional Home Furnishings % A VAILABLE E FRE Contemporary Home Furnishings Maytag, Whirlpool and KitchenAid Appliances Simmons Beautyrest Mattresses • Electronics • Wall Art & Accessories DELIVERY AVAILABLE

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3310 Blue Ridge Drive Blue Ridge, GA 30513

706-492-3071 AbernathysFurniture.com

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

WELCOME TO AC MAGAZINE

Sure was a long chilly winter for us here in the north Georgia Mountains. Luckily this past fall I replaced the original windows in the cabin (from 1973!) so at least I wasn’t scraping ice from the INSIDE of the windows again this year. Maxine and Bill Zoom are great at snuggling under the down duvet, however I think they are more interested in keeping themselves warm than me. Spoiled doggies! It’s been a season of change for us three. Working at home. Billy Zoom Sorting through my Mom’s things and many enjoys sleeping in when it’s trips to the women’s shelter thrift store in winter-cold. And yes- he snores Houston. I moved my office from downtown loudly for such a little guy. back into the cabin. Downtown Blue Ridge is growing fast with big money investors, so it’s not the same quaint place we used to like to hang out. Change is good, however unsettling it might be at first, but I now have boxes stacked upon boxes in my tiny rustic home. More sorting to do once this issue is put to bed. The foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains are known for their pristine springfed lakes and our cover story featuring Lake Arrowhead is a fine example. The new exclusive community there is all about embracing the Lake Life. Boating, golfing, pickleball and gorgeous views make living at Lake Arrowhead year round feel like a constant vacation. If you’re looking to settle down in these parts, Lake Arrowhead just might be your spot. This is our Annual Spring & Sumer Festivals issue and there are five pages full of amazing stuff to do here in the mountains. The Apple Blossom Festival in Ellijay, Arts in the Park in Blue Ridge, The Dahlonega Art & Wine Fest, The Teardrop 5 & 10K, and even three new festivals: The First Annual Spring Festival in Murphy, NC, The Get Outdoors! Expo at Lake Chatuge and the Georgia Mountain Needle Arts Festival in Ellijay. Golly- there’s so many I doubt you’ll be able to get to them all. But of course you should try! In this issue we have some famous traditional recipes to celebrate the Kentucky Derby, including the Legendary Hot Brown, direct from the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Derby Pie and the infamous Kentucky Burgoo. With or without adding Kentucky Bourbon, it seems like you’ll be able to eat your way to the finish line! And what’s up with all of those Ladybugs in our cabins? Turns out they’re actually beetles- who knew? The next edition is our Summer Fun issue and we’ll be showing off the best of the outdoors the area has to offer, everything from white water rafting & kayaking, hiking, biking, horse back riding, and zip lining. You name it we’ve probably got it here somewhere. So git on out there and have some fun.

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, The Brown Hotel, Cody Evans, Cassandra Hendrix Founder + Creative Director, The Counter Collective, Greg Mimbs, Murphy Business Association,

Lake Arrowhead Sales & Marketing, Karah Thompson, Karissa Lusardi-Williams, Judie Woodall, Maxine & Billy Zoom

See y’all in the summer sun!

This is what it’s like to work at home. Feed me, walk me, play with me! Usually those are things we do on a regular basis- however not on the last 3 days we have to finish up the magazine. Maxine the pest.

PUBLISHER | EDITOR IN CHIEF Alice Sexton

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

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

APRIL/MAY 2018

Blue Ridge's Only Golf & River Community

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596 Curtis Switch Road, Mineral Bluff, GA 30559 | Real Estate – 706.946-4663 & Golf – 706.946.4653 | www.oldtoccoafarm.com

Obtain the Property Report required by Federal law and read it before signing anything. No Federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. This is not intended to be an offer to sell nor a solicitation of offers to buy Obtain theinProperty Report required by Federal law and read it before signing No Federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, thisother property. This is where not intended to be offer sell norcan a solicitation offers to of buy real estate Old Toccoa Farm by residents of Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois,anything. New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania or South Carolina, orofany jurisdiction prohibited byan law. No to offering be made toofresidents real York estate in Old Toccoa Farm residents of Connecticut, Illinois, NewYork. Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania or South Carolina, or any other jurisdiction where prohibited by law. No offering can be made to residents of New until an offering plan isbyfiled with the Department ofHawaii, Law ofIdaho, the State of New New York until an offering plan is filed with the Department of Law of the State of New York.

OLD TOCCOA FARM, LLC AND ITS PRINCIPALS TAKING PART IN THE PUBLIC OFFERING OR SALE ARE NOT INCORPORATED IN, LOCATED IN, OR RESIDENT IN THE STATE OF NEW YORK. THE OFFERING IS NEITHER MADE IN OLD TOCCOA FARM, LLC AND ITS PRINCIPALS TAKING PART IN THE PUBLIC OFFERING OR SALE ARE NOT INCORPORATED IN, LOCATED IN, OR RESIDENT IN THE STATE OF NEW YORK. THE OFFERING IS NEITHER MADE THE STATE OF NEW YORK NOR MADE TO THE RESIDENTS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK. THE OFFERING IS NOT DIRECTED TO ANY PERSON OR ENTITY IN THE STATE OF NEW YORK BY, OR ON BEHALF OF, OLD TOCCOA IN THE STATE OF NEW YORK NOR MADE TO THE RESIDENTS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK. THE OFFERING IS NOT DIRECTED TO ANY PERSON OR ENTITY IN THE STATE OF NEW YORK BY, OR ON BEHALF OF, OLD FARM, LLC FARM, OR ANYONE ACTING WITHACTING OLD TOCCOA LLC’S KNOWLEDGE. OFFERING ORNO PURCHASE OR OR SALE OF ANY PROPERTY TAKE PLACE AS A RESULT THISAS OFFERING, ALL OFFERING, REGISTRATION TOCCOA LLC OR ANYONE WITH FARM, OLD TOCCOA FARM, LLC’SNO KNOWLEDGE. OFFERING PURCHASE OR SALE SHALL OF ANY PROPERTY SHALL TAKE OF PLACE A RESULTUNTIL OF THIS UNTIL ALL AND FILING REQUIREMENTS THE NEW YORK MARTIN ACT AND THE NEW YORK GENERAL’S REGULATIONS ARE COMPLIED WITH; A WRITTEN EXEMPTION IS AOBTAINED TO IS ANOBTAINED APPLICATION IS REGISTRATION AND FILINGUNDER REQUIREMENTS UNDER THE NEW YORK MARTIN ACT ATTORNEY AND THE NEW YORK ATTORNEY GENERAL’S REGULATIONS ARE COMPLIED WITH; WRITTENPURSUANT EXEMPTION PURSUANT TO AN APPLICATION IS AND GRANTED PURSUANTWITH TO AND IN ACCORDANCE WITH COOPERATIVE STATEMENTSREQUEST #1 OR #7;ISOR A “NO-ACTION” REQUEST IS GRANTED. GRANTED PURSUANT TO IN ACCORDANCE COOPERATIVE POLICY STATEMENTS #1 OR #7;POLICY OR A “NO-ACTION” GRANTED.

CONTENTS

Spotlight, 7 Restaurant 61 Main in Jasper, GA

The Area’s First and Favorite Farm to Table Restaurant, Local & Fresh

13 Make a Great First Impression

The Importance of a Well Designed and Unique Entryway

Ladybug or Asian Beetle?

Lake Arrowhead. Live the Dream

Run for the Roses

What’s Not to Love About Ladybugs? They Eat Crop-Destroying Pests, and Bring Good Luck. But Why Are They in My House?

An Exclusive, Award-Winning Mountain, Lake, and Golfing Community at the Foot of the Beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains Legendary Kentucky Derby Recipes to Make Your Derby Party Rock

RunRoses

FOR THE

2018 Summer Festivals and Fairs

FIVE KENTUCKY DERBY FAVORITES

A L     S     

WITH STYLE

The Most Complete List You’ll Find, Bet You Can’t Attend Them All!

D  ,         C F S     

The Legendary H

Ingredients 1 1/2 tablespoons salted butt 1 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose 1 1/2 cups heavy cream 1/4 cup Pecorino Romano ch garnish Pinch of ground nutmeg Salt and pepper 14 oz. sliced roasted turkey b 4 slices of Texas toast (crusts 4 slices of bacon 2 Roma tomatoes, sliced in h Paprika Parsley

IVINGMA WWW.ACL

ON THE COVER

GAZINE.COM

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Lake Arrowhead resort community offers a mixture of serene natural beauty and world-class amenities. Those seeking a better quality of life can find it here, where wildlife like hawks, wild turkeys, blue heron, and deer roam the wooded slopes and valleys.

| APRIL/M AY 2018

LAKE D. ARROWHEA LIVE THE DREAM.

COMPLETE THE MOST 18 SPRING LIST OF 20 FESTIVALS ER MM & SU _2018.indd

02_AprilMay

E ROSES RUN FOR THR THE RECIPES FO RBY PARTY DE PERFECT

PHOTO: CHRIS WITZKE

SPRING & SUMMER FESTIVALS 2018

VS. ASIAN LADYBUG OW THE BEETLE- KNE DIFFERENC 3/20/18

2:57 PM

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

APRIL/MAY 2018

Preparation In a two-quart saucepan, mel whisk in flour until combine paste or roux. Continue to co

APPALACHIAN COUN

AC LIVING RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT

Downtown Jasper’s

Farm to Table Dining Destination

COL. POOLE’S

OUR HOURS Monday Lunch: 11am – 3pm Supper: 5am – 8pm Tuesday – Friday 11am– 3pm Saturday Brunch 9am– 3pm

Georgia Bar-B-Q

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

www.poolesbarbq.com

For Reservations Please Call

706.253.7289 www.61main.com

49 South Main Street | Jasper, GA 30143

STEAK & SUSHI R E S TA U R A N T

Happy Hour M-F 4:30-7 $4 Sushi Rolls • $1.50 Draft Beer $3 Glasses of Wine • $3-$7 Appetizers

706. 698. 2222

Monday-Thursday 11:30-2:30 & 4:30-9:30 Friday 11:30-10:30 Saturday 12:00-10:30 Sunday 11:30-9:30

130 Old Orchard Square, Ellijay, GA Next to the Ingles Supermarket

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

CABIN COFFEE DOWNTOWN BLAIRSVILLE

Fresh Roasted Coffee Everyday

Breakfast & Lunch Served All Day!

I-FI FREE W

Open Seven Days a Week 8am - 2pm

Buzz in Daily for our...

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

5850 Appalachian Hwy / Rt.515 Blue Ridge, GA 30513

44A Town Square Blairsville, GA 30512

www. bumblebeescafeblueridge.com

CabinCoffeeCompany.com Like us on FB / CabinCoffeeBlairsville

Diagonally Across from Ingles

APRIL/MAY 2018

706. 745. 0073

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

61 Main Jasper, GA Over the past nine years the importance of “keeping it local” at 61 Main has become more evident. With the rise of society’s awareness of what we fuel our bodies with, the concept Chef Jenna introduced to this area has really caught on and with that the success of her operation. Chef Jenna and her staff work closely with local farmers and artisans in their menu planning to ensure they utilize food that is in season and to make use of what is most abundant. The common chef builds a shopping list from their menu, Jenna and her team create their menu around what their farmers bring to them. Jenna feels it is of utmost importance to serve people food they can trust! Serving lunch Monday through Friday from 11 am – 3pm, 61 Main offers choices from their menu such as salads, soups, sandwiches and desserts. Get there early to take advantage of the daily special made from the freshest of ingredients. Monday Night Supper is special at 61 Main. Served from 5pm8pm choose from a weekly rotating menu featuring local sourced lamb, steak, chicken and vegetarian dishes. Gluten free options including trout, flounder, ribs and are also on the menu. Monday Night Suppers are bountiful and within your budget. At about $13 you can’t go wrong with an entrée choice, side choice, that night’s dessert, plus the delicious 61 cornbread. Reservations are highly recommended. Saturdays at 61 Main feature a separate brunch menu available from 9am all the way through lunch. Enjoy homemade quiches, casseroles and other great brunch favorites from Chef Jenna as well as our signature homemade Bloody Mary’s and Mimosas. Need catering? From weddings and anniversaries to corporate events, 61 Main is proud to offer catering services for your party of 10 or more. Contact them to craft a menu for your special event. The goal for 61 Main is to limit the impact made on the environment— less flying, driving, and fuel consumption— and using the bounty from Jasper and its neighboring communities. Make your reservations early-farm to table dining in Jasper has never been so good. 61 Main 49 South Main Street, Jasper, GA 30143 706-253-7289 | info@61main.com | www.61main.com Hours: Lunch: Monday - Friday 11am – 3pm Supper: Monday 5pm – 8pm Saturday Brunch: 9am – 3pm Facebook “f ” Logo

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Your Award Winning Hometown Winery & Vineyard

“Titmouse in a Limber Twig Tree” by Cornbread

Sunday through Thursday 12-6PM Friday & Saturday 12-8PM 8

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

APRIL/MAY 2018

AC LIVING ADVENTURE

Adventure Moto Paradise Outdoor Adventure Editor Greg Dunn Goes Off the Beaten Path with Adventure Moto Guide Tom Watson

Spring is in the air in the North Georgia Mountains. It’s only the beginning of April and we already have buds on the trees, flowers blooming, and temperatures in the 70’s. Perfect for almost anything outdoors. It’s been a couple months since I have gotten the KTM out so after a good night of watching the last ever AMA Supercross race to be held in the Georgia Dome (from my recliner of course) I got the itch to twist a little throttle. The mountains of north Georgia are crisscrossed with forest service roads open to tagged motorcycles. There are also designated off highway vehicle trails that are open to untagged ohv’s. Surrounded by this much temptation, I finally broke down and got a KTM dirt bike. Having limited knowledge of the area, I tried to stay within fuel and cell phone range as much as possible. One day while out exploring on the KTM, I rode up on a mountain biker at a stop sign getting ready to cross Aska Road. In my true, never met a stranger fashion, I struck up conversation only to find out that he also rode motos, lived in the area and would be happy to show me some good new routes. I hit him up a few weeks later and we have been riding mountain bikes and motos together ever since. Tom Watson knows the roads and trails in the north Georgia mountains like the back of his hand. With almost 15 years of experience on both mountain bikes and motorcycles he has explored nearly every nook and cranny in the area, especially in the Chattahoochee National Forest. Tom recently invited me to a weekend adventure ride/camp based out of his property in the Aska adventure area. Several riders from all over the southeast joined us on two days of 6 plus hour adventure routes, which Tom touted as his favorites. We explored the rough roads of Duncan Ridge, Coopers Creek, Noontootla Creek and just about everything in between. The routes were strategically planned with gas stops appropriately spaced to get us back safely which can be difficult APRIL/MAY 2018

Clockwise from top left: Your guide, Tom Watson. Paved, dirt, service roads and single track are options depending on skill level. Riders stop and take in the gracious mountain scenery. Fantastic and healthy food served after a long day’s ride. Bring your own camping gear or “glamp.” Get ready to shred.

given that gas stations are few and far between in that area. We finished the days with a huge spread of tasty food and ice-cold beverages, followed by “war-stories” by the bonfire overlooking a beautiful sunset behind the majestic Rich Mountain. Turns out Tom is now offering his services to the public! His company, Moto X Adventures, offers 1, 2, or 3 day guided rides for all levels of experience. Apres ride enjoy “glamping” at the Moto X Adventure Basecamp, featuring homecooked meals, bountiful refreshments and – oh– some of the best roads and trails in north Georgia just minutes from camp. If you’re looking to maximize your motorized off-road experience, take the guess work out of the equation and let Tom guide you over the best roads and trails north Georgia has to offer! About Your Moto X Adventures Guide Tom Watson, with a degree in exercise physiology has spent 25 years as a fitness and nutrition expert APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

owning a fitness training company in Atlanta and now Blue Ridge, GA. His biggest passion has been bicycle racing- both mountain and roadbringing several of his teams to the national winner’s circle. Much of his knowledge of this area is the result of his bicycle race training on these very same mountain roads, service roads and trails. Gaining an intimate knowledge of these roads by bicycle was what initially lead Tom to adventure riding on a motorcycle. However, he says, “My total indoctrination to moto was watching Charlie Boorman and Ewan McGregor’s documented adventure trip movie “Long Way Round.” I instantly realized that on a moto, you can cover more miles, expand your riding skills and experience a larger adventure– I was hooked.” Leave the details to Tom and Ride the Mountains of Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee. ACLM vels Welcome For more info, to book a guided ADV Moto Tour or to reserve a stay at the Moto X Adventures Basecamp visit: www.motoxadventures.com or call Tom at 404.276.0179 WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

YOUR FUTURE IS RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER Make home buying easier when you start with your United Community Mortgage Services lender. Look for your dream home with confidence when you see us first.

JASPER | 118 Whitfield Drive | 706-253-9393 Renee Burgess | MORTGAGE ORIGINATOR NMLS# 501421 D 706-299-5711 | renee_burgess@ucbi.com

© 2017 United Community Bank | Member FDIC. United Community Bank NMLS# 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. | ucbi.com/together

MotoX Adventures

Two days after their wedding Edgar discovers that his wife is trying to kill him. Shots were blanks and Edgar’s body has vanished…

JUNE JULY 2018 ISSUE

SUMMER FUN!

ADVERTISING DEADLINE

MAY 1ST

REACH 30,000 READERS

Experience the best back roads, wilderness and scenic beauty in the gorgeous mountains of GA, NC, and TN on your ADV bike with an experienced rider guide.

CALL TODAY! 706. 492. 5070

motoxadventures.com

alice@blueridgemediagroup.com

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April 12th - April 29th Thursday - Saturday 7:30 PM Sundays at 2 PM

May 17th - June 3rd Thursday - Saturday 7:30 PM Sundays at 2 PM

Leave the Details to Us and Ride the Mountains of Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee Customized ADV Rides with All Skill Levels Welcome

THE BOYS NEXT DOOR

THE MURDER ROOM

GA MTN ADVENTURE TOURS

Guided On/Off-Road Tours

Four mentally handicapped men live under the supervision of an earnest, “burned out” young social worker. Sweet Comedy!

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

RAY FULLER & THE BLUESROCKERS Saturday, April 7th 7:30 PM FRED JOHNSON JAZZ Saturday May 5th 7:30 PM AND MORE! FIND US ON FB: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/LIVEMUSICISBETTER

TICKET PACKAGES MAKE GREAT GIFTS BOX OFFICE: 706. 632. 9191

BUY ONLINE @ WWW.BLUERIDGECOMMUNITYTHEATER.COM

MAIN: 706. 632. 9223 2591 EAST 1ST STREET • BLUE RIDGE, GA APRIL/MAY 2018

AC LIVING LANDSCAPE & GARDEN

Evaluating Your Tree’s Health Landscape & Garden Editor Kevin Johnson Gives Tips to Help Us Diagnose What’s Killing Our Trees

Recently I received an email from a gentleman who was concerned about the health of a large oak tree growing in the proximity of his cabin. He was wondering if I would come out and examine the tree and diagnose any potential problems as the tree posed a structural threat. I explained that while my company is very engaged in the treatment of Hemlock Woolly Adelgid, as well as offering lawn fertilization and weed abatement programs, that particular service isn’t something we provide. I was able to forward an article titled “Is my tree dying?” that appeared in a recent issue of the Urban Ag Council Magazine. Several professionals from various government offices contributed to this article. This article provided him with enough information about whether or not to have his tree removed. It seems everywhere I go in North Georgia I see sick or dead trees. We’ve been in and out of drought now for several years, which adversely affects the health of our forests. We’ve yet to see the impact the drought of 2016 will have. The reality is– all trees will eventually die. Here I will touch on the highlights of “Is My Tree Dying: Evaluating Tree Health” so that homeowners can self-diagnose a potentially sick tree.

3 Basic Steps for Evaluating Your Tree’s Health Inspect the Root Zone and Trunk Flare Several years ago I managed the grounds department at a local college where the campus was full of trees in decline. Over the years the root zones of many trees were compromised by the construction of new sidewalks and structures. Also mowing and trimming around most trees led to compaction of the root zones and damage to the base of the trees. Our maintenance practices, due to time restraints, were to prune off dead limbs instead addressing the underlying issues. Finally over time we began to aerate beneath the trees and create mulch beds in order to revive and protect these incredible resources. APRIL/MAY 2018

Top Left & Left: Sudden Oak Death is a tree disease caused by the fungus-like plant pathogen Phytophthora ramorum. First recognized in the mid 1990s, kills some oak species. Top Right: Trunk damage from mowing can lead to a compromised tree. Left: Crown Dieback is an obvious indication of underlying problems. When evaluating a tree, start by looking at the roots and trunk flare. Healthy trees are wider at the base. When the base of the tree is damaged it has a tougher time moving essential nutrients and water. This leads to an unhealthy tree that becomes increasingly more unstable. Also inspect the root zone of the tree. Are there fruiting bodies growing in this area? This can be a sign of root decay which is a serious problem. Find out what kind of construction took place in the vicinity of the tree. Have the roots been damaged or has the soil level been changed? Evaluate the Trunk One morning I arrived on campus and noticed a large hemlock had blown over in a storm the previous night. This tree appeared healthy but once it snapped a few feet up, we discovered it wasn’t. The tree fell in an area where students generally walked. Thankfully it happened while most were sleeping and no one was injured. The hemlock was full of heart rot. When evaluating your tree look at the trunk for fungi or injuries. Fungi often reveal internal disease and injuries to the tree’s bark impair its ability transport nutrients. Look Upward into the Crown Take a good hard look at the branches and leaves. I have an oak growing in my backyard with obvious crown dieback. At some point I APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

will have to remove the only shade tree growing in my backyard. I’ve seen all kinds of premature leaf drop and fungal leaf spot on a variety of trees now for several years. Sometimes these vary by season due to weather conditions. Look at the leaves of your tree and see if they appear healthy. How about the branches? Are they dying? Might there be an insect problem? These observations may indicate a more serious problem. If you are concerned about your trees, seek out a good arborist or contact your county extension agent. No one wants to lose a mature tree, since we just can’t replace them in our life. If a tree is growing in the proximity of your home, and you cringe every time the wind blows, it might be the safety of your family and property takes precedence. 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. Spring is a great time to treat your hemlocks to prevent or cure a Woolly Adelgid infestation. Call Kevin at 866. 883. 2420 today! WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

ADD STYLE TO YOUR DECK! Outdoor Living transforms an ordinary outdoor space into a shaded retreat with beautiful pergolas. These pergolas offer the thickest gauge aluminum in the industry which allows for a deep embossing that captures the true texture and look of premium wood. The aluminum is nearly maintenance free with no worries of termites, rotting, twisting, cracking or painting. Whether you are looking for added style on your deck or shade, we can design the perfect option for you.

PERGOLAS Make

447 Harmony School Rd., Jasper, GA Showroom Hrs: Wed-Fri10-4 or by appt Business: 706-301-5698 • Website: www.myenclosedporch.com

Ask about our Eze-Breeze porch enclosures, screen rooms, custom patio furniture, aluminum and cable railings, waterproof flooring, rugs and lighting.

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THE PLACE for Your Home Shopping! • Building Supplies • Garden Center • Hardware • Lumber • Furniture & Appliances

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MADE HERE AT ACE SWINGING PORCH BED

305 South Main Street • Ellijay, GA 30540 706. 635. 2236 12

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AC LIVING STYLE & DESIGN

First Impressions Really Do Count Style & Design Editor Cindy Trimble Stresses the Importance of a Well Designed and Unique Entryway

Have you ever arrived at someone’s house and wondered, “Where is the front door?” Creating a warm, inviting front door and entry to your house is so important. It needs to scream out “Here I am – enter here!” When we are working on budgets for the overall house, I am emphatic with our clients to allocate ample funds for their front entry door, door surrounding walls and space, door handles, entry lights and furnishings. This is the first impression guests will receive when arriving at your home; make is as special and unique as you can! But most important, make is so that they know where to go to get to the front door! Creating a successful and exciting entry may involve some added architectural elements such as a portico (open covered area that sticks out in front of the door supported by columns,) a front porch or simply adding a new layer of a richer, more textured material. Many houses lack a front door or their front door is placed on the back of the house that has to be reached walking around on a porch. This is confusing for guests and requires special emphasis on the arrival area and the trail leading to the front door. If this is your situation, then the arrival point will need to be emphasized to lead guests in that direction. The front entry at near right was a completely new structure that was created specifically to show where the front door was and give guests an exciting experience upon arrival. The original front door was down a set of steps, which were barely visible from the driveway. When guests arrived, they had to walk down stairs to get to the front porch and front door. This new portico, that includes a bridge leads guests from the driveway across a ravine to the front door. The front door leads to an elevated foyer that overAPRIL/MAY 2018

looked the great room below. The addition of the new portico dramatically transformed the guest’s experience when arriving at this house. Confusion was eliminated and the new structure connected the driveway and arrival to the house very successfully. ACLM Top: Entryway after renovation. Above: Before renovation. Right:Front entries always stand out if wrapped with a more expensive finish material such as stone. Make sure your entry is well lighted for evening guest arrivals. This entry has been wrapped with stone, given a soft arch over the entry portal and has two large carriage lanterns on either side clearly indicating where the front door is located. APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Editor’s Note: Every gorgeous entryway should include a cute Corgi! 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

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LADYBIRD, LADY BUG OR ASIAN BEETLE?

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What’s not to love about ladybugs? They eat crop-destroying pests, and are said to bring good luck. But why are they in my house?

throughout the US and Canada, and has been a prominent factor in controlling aphid populations. Unlike its docile relative, this orange Ladybug can be a true pest.

Ladybird, named so after the Virgin Mary, is a name that has been used in England for more than 600 years for the European beetle. As knowledge about insects increased, the name became extended to all its relatives, members of the beetle family Coccinellidae. This species was introduced in the US to combat plant pests as far back as 1916, and became known here as the Ladybug. These days, the word Ladybug applies to a whole family of beetles, Coccinellidae or Ladybugs, not just Coccinella septempunctata. Ladybugs are not bugs (Hemiptera) they are actually beetles (Coleoptera). The most widespread Lady Bug, Coccinellidae, and specifically Coccinellidae Coccinella septempunctata, has become so common– that now– the word Ladybug applies to a whole family of beetles (Coccinellidae) or Ladybugs, not just Coccinella septempunctata. Ladybugs are considered to be beneficial insects because they feed on plant pests and live outdoors all year round. Although most Ladybugs are harmless and good for the environment, the Asian Lady Beetle- Coccinellidae harmonia axyridis- is somewhat of an exception. This species was introduced to North America in an attempt to control the spread of aphids. Since then, the Asian Lady Beetle has spread

How the Asian Lady Beetle Was Introduced to the United States This Ladybug species was purposely introduced into the U.S. from Asia in the latter half of the 1900s by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to control agricultural pests, such as aphids and scale insects, especially for crops of pecans and apples. The USDA released the Asian Lady Beetles in Georgia, South Carolina, Louisiana, Mississippi, California, Washington, Pennsylvania, Connecticut and Maryland, and since then it

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Spotting the Difference Between Good and Bad Ladybugs At a quick glance, it can be hard to tell the difference between the Asian ladybug and beneficial Ladybugs, partly because the color of the Asian species can vary from light tan or orange to bright red. But if you look closely, you will see the Asian Lady Beetle has a white marking behind its head in the openings of what looks like a black M. Some also have dark black spots, but on others, the spots are very light or nonexistent.

has migrated so that it is now found throughout most of the U.S. In addition to this intentional introduction, the beetles have been accidentally introduced to the U.S. on freighters, which probably caused or increased its presence across the country. Asian Lady Beetle Infestations Since their purposeful introduction, however, the not-so-beneficial aspects of this species of Ladybug have come to light. Like box elder bugs and stink bugs, Asian Lady Beetles will crawl into cracks and crevices of the home seeking warmth. They come in through the eaves, siding, or even the foundation to overwinter between the walls. Once inside, they will crawl or fly around rooms, and land on windows, walls, and furniture. While this is annoying, except for the few problems listed below, these beetles are pretty much just a simple nuisance to most people and pets. They do not feed or reproduce indoors, nor do they attack buildings, furniture or fabrics. If smashed or disturbed they do release a pungent bitter smelling odor and leave a slimy yellow stain. Yes, Asian Lady Beetles have been known to bite, or more specifically, ‘pinch’ exposed skin with their chewing mouthparts. This can happen upon landing on a human or pet, and if they WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

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Power Solutions Unlimited

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Cell: 770. 893. 9177 Fax: 706. 253. 7739 111 Confederate Ave. Jasper, GA 30143 Scott Fowler, Owner scott@psu24-7.com

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C. Coccinella septempunctata, our common Ladybug is actually a beetle.

Asian Lady Beetle- C. Coccinellidae harmonia axyridis is your home invader. are handled or feel threatened. The bite has been described as a pinprick and is rarely serious. They do not carry or transmit diseases; however there have been instances and studies suggesting Asian Lady Beetles can trigger allergic reactions. Reactions are caused when a person is around a large infestation, or by touching them and subsequently touching one’s eyes. Documented allergic reactions range from conjunctivitis (pink eye), cough, hay fever, hives and triggering asthma. It is important to wash your hands if in contact with Asian Lady Beetles and to avoid touching your eyes (and face) if you have made contact. Asian Lady Beetles have become a more serious concern for the wine industry in Eastern and Midwestern U.S. and Ontario, Canada. In the fall they take shelter in wine grape clusters in vineyards. If any beetles are accidently processed with the grapes their harsh, their acrid odor can taint the wine’s flavor.

It also is important to be sure that all doors and windows are tightly fitted, and to repair or replace damaged screens. If you are serious about how to get rid of Asian Lady Beetles effectively, seek professional pest control help to treat the perimeter of your home and building with a residual spray in the spring and fall. A licensed pest management technician will also help uncover the root problem and use integrated pest management techniques to help rid you of the pests, monitor for them, and most importantly, and prevent them from returning.

Prevention The best way to control Asian Lady Beetles in your home is through pest-proofing measures to keep them from entering. These include sealing gaps and cracks around windows, doors, chimneys, utility wires and pipes, and vents, as well as in siding, eaves, and the foundation.

Removal Once inside you can get rid of them by vacuuming or sweeping. Whatever you do don’t squash them! They secrete a terrible odor and yellowish fluid if disturbed. This fluid can stain walls, furniture, and other surfaces. Vacuuming with a HEPA filter is the most effective. Using the attachment tools vacuum up the Lady Beetles. Most of them will survive being vacuumed up. If you have a garden, you can transfer them to your garden to help get rid of aphids. If you prefer to get rid of them all together, place the vacuum bag into a sealed plastic bag or you just burn the bag. Sweeping is also an option. Using a broom, gently sweep the insects into a dustpan or other container and put them outdoors. Again if you wish to completely get rid of them put them in a sealed plastic bag or burn them in a paper bag. Light traps are a way to trap Ladybugs, but this method will kill them. These traps, which can be found in home improvement stores, use

APRIL/MAY 2018

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Controlling Asian Lady Beetles Since the Asian Lady Beetle overwinters indoors, once they find a favorite overwintering site, they can produce an attractant pheromone that stimulates the beetles to return to the same location year after year. Here are some tips

light and pheromones to lure in Asian beetles, and a water solution drowns them. The trap includes a funnel top, which is designed to channel the bugs into a plastic jar base below. The light and the pheromones attract the ladybirds to the funnel, where they’ll slide down into the jar and drown. The efficacy of these traps have been questioned by professionals, so do your research before you buy. If you’re not too keen on the idea of killing ladybugs and the other methods above are not working, you have one alternative: wait it out. Ladybugs are only looking for a place to hibernate for the winter. They won’t damage your home or reproduce. They just want shelter. And when the weather gets warmer, they’ll head right back to the great outdoors – where they belong. After these bugs do leave your home, make sure that you take preventive measures to keep them from coming back next year. Seal entryways; lay down diatomaceous earth, plant mums and maybe even go as far as placing a cute Ladybug house in your yard. Prevention is the key with ladybugs because once they’re established in your home; it’s difficult to get them out. ACLM This little Ladybug is quite harmless!

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LAKE ARROWHEAD. LIVE THE DREAM.

Exquisite New Neighborhoods Now Available. Woodlands and Highlands Vista Ranch style homes from the $200’s $400’s New Phase now open. Single level living with open floor plans, stylish interior appointments, outdoor living areas, and private, heavily wooded homesites. Marketready homes are available for immediate move-in. Sanctuary Cove Luxury Lakeside Living - Homes from the $300’s - $800’s New 28-lot neighborhood featuring charming lakeside retreats with breathtaking views offering individual deep water docks. Limited opportunity. Master on the Main Townhomes Coming soon !

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WORDS & PHOTOS: LAKE ARROWHEAD

Luxury Lakeside Living This beautiful master planned mountain, lake, golfing community is just 40 minutes from Atlanta, convenient to nearby Canton and minutes from the new, state-of-the-art Northside Cherokee Hospital and the premier cultural arts center at renowned Reinhardt University. The vast list of amenities is much too long to list here and includes miles of walking/hiking trails, pickleball, championship golf and a crystal clear 540-acre lake surrounded by picturesque mountain views.

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Welcome to Lake Arrowhead. Located near Canton, GA, Lake Arrowhead is an exclusive, mountain, lake, and golfing community. Visit us and tour our Obie Award winning model home pictured here.

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Our professionally furnished model homes are now open, showcasing state-of-theart kitchens, spacious, open living areas, outdoor fireplaces and private outdoor covered rear patios for enjoying the mountain views. There is something really special about the lake and mountains. Serene. Peaceful. Transforming. The mountains are expansive and mystical, the 540-acre lake is a deep, clear, pristine. Together they make for the perfect mountain, lake and golfing community. Welcome to Lake Arrowhead. For the new year, Lake Arrowhead has opened a new neighborhood called the Woodlands. It offers large, heavily wooded home sites with new ranch style floor plans ranging in size from 1800-2500 square feet and priced from the $200’s. The beautiful model homes and Design Studio at Highlands Vista are now supplied with the latest selections and colors for 2018. Highlands Vista offers ranch style homes on slabs or basements, priced from the APRIL/MAY 2018

$300’s - $400’s. There are homes ready for immediate move-in offering golf course views and beautiful mountain views, all in close proximity to Great Festival Park, resort-style pools, the golf course and clubhouse/grill. The portfolio of plans range in size from 1800-2600 square feet. Design-inspired features found in these plans truly redefine “VALUE.” Sanctuary Cove is Lake Arrowhead’s premier luxury lakeside neighborhood and showcases a limited number of lakefront homesites recently released for sale. Each homesite maximizes the panoramic views of the lake and mountains and offers individual deep water docks. The inviting entry design for the neighborhood is underway and is close to completion. The Sanctuary Cove portfolio of plans range from 2000-3200 square

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Model Home Terrace Level Residents enjoy hiking along miles of neighborhood trails, an 18-hole championship golf course, tennis, pickleball and all types of boating and water

feet that are priced from the $300’s - $800’s. Convenient, new masterdown townhomes, located adjacent to the iconic Great Festival Park, are nearing completion. A first-time release of the plan offering, pricing and amenities for this neighborhood will be revealed to the “VIP By Invitation Only” list of homeowners prior to releasing to the public. These maintenance-free, master-down townhomes are tucked away among the towering hardwoods and provide the ultimate “lock and leave” opportunity for buyers that are on the go. New buyers who visit are being offered a “SNEAK PEAK” for this limited offering. The social aspects of the community are endless. Owners enjoy hiking along eight miles of neighborhood trails, outdoor concerts, drive-in movies under the stars, golf tournaments, wine tastings and health and wellness classes, to name a few. Our Lifestyle Director’s monthly calendar of events and activities engages our owners’ sense of adventure and enriches their lives. No matter your interests, age, or abilities, there is something enjoyable for EVERYONE at Lake Arrowhead. We invite you to visit our two professionally-furnished model homes, open daily and showcasing commercial grade appliances, spacious, open floor plans and private, outdoor, covered rear patios with captivating mountain views. Come experience the serene, natural beauty and feel the lakeside breezes as you explore the homes that are being built. We are confident you will agree that Lake Arrowhead is a community that APRIL/MAY 2018

has redefined home value and quality of life. Johnson Development Corporation, who has more top-selling communities than any other developer in America, is at the helm of Lake Arrowhead, in conjunction with their Atlanta-based home building company, Majestic Lifestyle Builders. ACLM For more information, visit the Community Sales and Information Center located across from the lake at 2419 Lake Arrowhead Drive, Waleska, Georgia 30183. Open Monday thru Saturday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Sunday, Noon to 6:00 p.m., or by appointment. You can also visit Lake Arrowhead online at www.lakearrowheadga.com or call Lake Arrowhead’s New Home Specialists at 770-720-2700. You will be glad you did.

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RunRoses FOR THE

FIVE KENTUCKY DERBY FAVORITES

WITH STYLE

AC LIVING RECIPES

A Louisville legend, the Brown Hotel is beloved by generations of guests for its Georgian-Revival elegance and timeless Southern charm. Opening in 1923, the brown quickly became the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business and social center. Some say more business deals were struck in the English Grill than at any office in town. Drawing over 1,200 guests each evening for its dinner dance, in the wee hours of the morning, guests would grow weary of dancing and make their way to the restaurant for a bite to eat. Sensing their desire for something more glamorous than traditional ham and eggs, Chef Fred Schmidt set out to create something new to tempt his guestsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; palates. His unique dish? An open-faced turkey sandwich with bacon and a delicate Mornay sauce. The Hot Brown was born!

The Legendary Hot Brown Ingredients 1 1/2 tablespoons salted butter 1 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 1/2 cups heavy cream 1/4 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, plus extra for garnish Pinch of ground nutmeg Salt and pepper 14 oz. sliced roasted turkey breast, slice thick 4 slices of Texas toast (crusts trimmed) 4 slices of bacon 2 Roma tomatoes, sliced in half Paprika Parsley Preparation In a two-quart saucepan, melt butter and slowly whisk in flour until combined to form a thick paste or roux. Continue to cook roux APRIL/MAY 2018

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for 2 minutes over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Whisk heavy cream into the roux and cook over medium heat until the cream begins to simmer, about 2-3 minutes. Remove sauce from heat and slowly whisk in PecorinoRomano cheese until the Mornay sauce is smooth. Add nutmeg, salt and pepper to taste. For each Hot Brown, place one slice of toast in an oven safe dish and cover with 7 oz. turkey. Take the two halves of Roma tomato and two toast points and set them alongside the base of turkey and toast. Pour half of the sauce over the dish, completely covering it. Sprinkle with additional cheese. Place entire dish under a broiler until cheese begins to brown and bubble. Remove and cross two pieces of crispy bacon on top. Sprinkle with paprika and parsley and serve immediately. Serves two. Recipe and Photo courtesy of the Brown Hotel. WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

Kentucky Bourbon Burgoo

Pronounced BUR-goo. This meat and vegetable stew is one of the oldest food traditions in the state of Kentucky and staple of the Kentucky Derby. The dish is slow-cooked in large batches and has a history of containing some pretty weird ingredients. Some earlier versions of “Burgoo” or “Brunswick Stew” called for squirrel, opossums, and about any other forest dweller that walked or flew. Today, the most common meats used in “Burgoo” are beef, lamb, pork, and poultry. While there are many variations, all Burgoo makers agree that 1) Burgoo should be made in stages: cook the meat first, and then add the vegetables. 2) No less than 4 - 6 hours should be devoted to making burgoo. Some recipes call for a 24-hour cooking period. 3) Burgoo should contain more than one meat. 4) Burgoo should be prepared outdoors over an open fire. Burgoo is as integral to the Kentucky Derby as the singing of “My Old Kentucky Home.” In 1932, a Bluegrass colt named Burgoo King— yes, Burgoo King—won both the Derby and Preakness. 26

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Ingredients 2 pounds pork shank 2 pounds veal shank 2 pounds beef shank 2 pounds breast of lamb 1 (4-pound) chicken 8 quarts cold water 1 1/2 pounds potatoes 1 1/2 pounds onions 1 bunch carrots, peeled and sliced thickly 2 green peppers, seeded and chopped 2 cups chopped cabbage 1 quart tomato puree 2 cups whole corn, fresh or canned 2 pods red pepper 2 cups diced okra 1/2 cup chopped parsley 2 cups dry lima beans 1 cup diced celery 3/4 cup Kentucky bourbon (optional) Salt and pepper Tabasco Steak Sauce Worcestershire sauce

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Preparation Put the pork, veal, beef, lamb, and chicken into a large pot. Add the water and bring it to a boil slowly. Simmer until meat is tender enough to fall off the bones, about 4—6 hours. Lift the meat out of the stock. Cool the meat, remove it from the bones, and chop it. Return the chopped meat to the stock. Pare the potatoes and onions and dice them. Add them, plus the carrots, green peppers, cabbage, tomato puree, corn, red pepper, okra, parsley, lima beans, celery, and bourbon, to the meat and stock. Allow the stew to simmer until very thick about 6 hours. Season to taste with the salt, pepper, Tabasco, steak sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Burgoo…midway between a hearty soup and a stew…succeeds the juleps in the guests’ cups as a first course. Also served the day after the Derby, in silver Mint Julep cups.

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Traditional Mint Julep

No Derby Party is complete without the Mint Julep which has been the traditional beverage of Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby for nearly a century. Each year, almost 120,000 Mint Juleps are served over the two-day period of the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby. This is a feat that requires over 10,000 bottles of bourbon, 1,000 pounds of freshly harvested mint and 60,000 pounds of ice. Ingredients 2 cups sugar 2 cups water Sprigs of fresh mint Crushed ice Kentucky Bourbon Silver Julep Cups Preparation Make a simple syrup by boiling sugar and water together for five minutes. Cool and place in a covered container with six or eight sprigs of fresh mint, then refrigerate overnight. Make one julep at a time by filling a julep cup with APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

crushed ice, adding one tablespoon mint syrup and two ounces of Kentucky Bourbon. Stir rapidly with a spoon to frost the outside of the cup. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.

Kentucky Sweet Bourbon Punch

Not everyone is a fan of the Mint Julep, so for those who wish to keep with tradition, try another Southern favorite served during Derby week, Sweet Bourbon Punch. Ingredients 2 cups ice tea (unsweetened) 1 cup sugar 1 12 oz can frozen OJ 1 12 oz can frozen limeade 1 750 ml bottle Bourbon 7 cups water Preparation Mix all ingredients and chill. Makes one gallon. Serve over ice with a slice of lime and a sprig of mint. WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

the most exciting two minutes in sports We’re Ready for Spring! Are You?

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The Kentucky Derby, the most-prestigious American horse race, was established in 1875 and now is run annually on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs racetrack, Louisville, Kentucky. The Derby field is limited to three-year-olds and, since 1975, to 20 horses; fillies carry 121 pounds and colts 126 pounds. The race distance was reduced in 1896 from 1.5 miles to its present 1.25 miles. In the early 21st century it was one of the most-popular singleday spectator events in the world, attracting some 150,000 spectators to Churchill Downs annually. History In 1874 Meriwether Lewis Clark established a racetrack on land owned by his uncles, John and Henry Churchill, for whom the track would eventually be named. The track officially opened on May 17, 1875, and the first Derby won by Aristides. The track’s famed grandstand, completed in 1895, is crowned by twin spires that have become a recognized emblem of the Kentucky Derby and Churchill Downs. In the 1870s, when the race debuted, black jockeys dominated organized racing, and African Americans won 15 of the first 28 Kentucky Derbies. Those wins included Oliver Lewis’s victory in the first Derby, in which 13 of the 15 competing jockeys were black; Lewis rode Aristides, a horse trained by a former slave, Ansel Williamson. Relatively few women have ridden as jockeys

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in the Kentucky Derby. The first, Diane Crump, finished 15th in 1970, and the sixth, Rosie Napravnik, finished fifth aboard Mylute in 2013 and last in 2014. Women owners have won the Derby numerous times, beginning in 1904 with Elwood’s victory for owner Laska Durnell. Since then, prominent Derby-winning female owners have included Helen Hay Whitney, Elizabeth Arden Graham, Ethel V. Mars, and Penny Chenery (whose winning horses included Secretariat, in 1973). In 1990 Frances Genter became the oldest Derbywinning owner at the age of 92 with the colt Unbridled. In 2013 Churchill Downs implemented a points system to determine which 20 horses could start in the Derby. This new proceedure replaced a system that ranked horses on the basis of their earnings in graded stakes races. Horses now receive points according to their performance in specific Derby prep races. Track Record Though the Derby is often called “the most exciting two minutes in sports,” only two horses have officially finished the race in under two minutes. The course record was set in 1973 by Secretariat, who finished in 1:59 2/5. And Monarchos, who won the 2001 Derby in a computer-timed 1:59.97. Triple Crown winner Secretariat still holds the track record. –Written by: Marvin Drager

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Kentucky Bourbon Derby Pie

The Derby-Pie® was developed over 50 years ago as the specialty pastry of the Melrose Inn, in Prospect, Kentucky. George Kern, manager of the restaurant, developed the Derby-Pie® recipe with the help of his parents, Walter and Leaudra. The recipe remains a secret to this very day and is known only to a small group of Kern family members including a single Kern’s Kitchen employee, who still mixes the recipe today. Here’s our take on this famous dessert. Ingredients 1 91/2 in deep dish pie crust 11/2 cups pecans 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 cup dark corn syrup 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 cup dark brown sugar 1/4 cup water or bourbon 4 large eggs 1/4 cup butter, melted 2 teaspoons cornmeal 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon salt

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Preparation Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Fit piecrust into a 9” deep-dish pie plate. Combine corn syrup, sugar, brown sugar and water in large saucepan and bring to a boil. Cook, stirring constantly, for 3 minutes. Whisk together eggs, butter, cornmeal, vanilla and salt. Gradually add corn syrup mixture. Place pecans and chocolate chips in pie crust. Pour filling over pecans and chocolate. Cover rim of pie with foil to prevent burning. Bake for 50 minutes. Kentucky Bourbon Derby Pie recipe & photos by Bohn & Bailey’s Bakery, to order delicious baked goods contact: Bohn & Bailey’s Just two girls baking everything from cookies to dog treats. bohnandbaileys@gmail.com 706. 889. 9798 or 706. 633. 6001 Follow them on Instagram @bohnandbaileys_ APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

My Old Kentucky Home by Stephen Foster

The sun shines bright in the old Kentucky home, Tis summer, the people are gay; The corn-top’s ripe and the meadow’s in the bloom While the birds make music all the day. The young folks roll on the little cabin floor All merry, all happy and bright; By’n by hard times comes a knocking at the door Then my old Kentucky home, Good-night! Weep no more my lady. Oh! Weep no more today! We will sing one song for my old Kentucky home For the old Kentucky home, far away.

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celebrate

Join us for the first annual Murphy Spring Festival.

Come celebrate what makes Murphy our favorite town! Rivers, trails, mountains, locally-owned business, superb people, and a beautiful downtown! Live music all day! Vendor booths! Local artists! Car show! Biergarten with local breweries! Restaurant specials!

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the spring season AT THE FIRST ANNUAL MURPHY SPRING FESTIVAL

WORDS : THE MURPHY BUSINESS ASSOCIATION PHOTOS: GREG MIMBS, CODY EVANS & KARISSA LUSARDI-WILLIAMS

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Left: Wyatt Espalin, be headlining the Murphy Spring Festival! Known for his rich blend of Americana sounds, he provides a fun and entertaining live show full of eclectic original songs and obscure covers from rock to bluegrass. Above: Local favorites, Gnarly Fingers will be there to get your toes a-tappin. Opposite: Other performers include Andrew Chastain, Heidi Holton and many more. Hoppy Trout Brewing from Andrews, NC will be one of thirteen local and regional breweries and wineries on hand as well as unique food choices. Enjoy festival art and crafts including those from the John C. Cambell Folk School. Heythere’s even a car show. So yep, there’s something for everyone!

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Come out and enjoy the beautiful Town of Murphy on Saturday, May 5 for the first annual Murphy Spring Festival! The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and will be located in historic downtown Murphy along Tennessee Street. The festival is organized by the Murphy Business Association, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to growing a thriving community with the help of our local businesses. They have worked together with the town administration to celebrate this new spring season with life and vivacity. Tap your feet to live on-stage performances by local musicians with Wyatt Espalin headlining, blues by Heidi Holton, and featured sets by Andrew Chastain and Gnarly Fingers among others. While you are listening to our local talent, come browse our beer garden. You’ll find many unique craft brews in our roped-off area close to the stage where you can hear the music and enjoy a glass of your favorite beer at the same time. Thirteen local and regional breweries and wineries will be serving up their favorite beverages. Many of our breweries craft beer onsite in small batches, such as Tom Rodeck from Hoppy Trout in Andrews, NC and Valley River Brewery in Murphy, NC. The Spring Festival is fun for the whole family! From a community art mural to bounce houses, there are plenty of activities for the kids APRIL/MAY 2018

to enjoy. The Valley River Humane Society will also be hosting a pet adoption with plenty of animals who need loving homes. There will also be a car show, so come out and see all of the fun cars on display down the side of Tennessee Street. Carquest of Murphy will present awards to the best in show. Offering educational fun during the festival, Mainspring Conservation and John C. Campbell Folk School, along with several other local and regional groups. Restaurants throughout downtown will be joining in the fun, with several food vendors to choose from. A wide variety of artists will have their wares on display, including pottery, paintings, and other handcrafted pieces. Make sure to stick around for the myriad of live demonstrations from these local crafters! Artists from the Murphy Art Center will also be showing their APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

artwork. This year the Murphy Spring Festival will be in conjunction with the First Friday of Art Walk, which will be held the night before the festival. Many local and regional artists will be showcasing their art both on Friday night and Saturday during the festival. This spring come enjoy all that Murphy has to offer! Peruse beautiful handcrafted artwork while enjoying our local cuisine. Let the music pull you down the street towards our concert stage where you can enjoy a crisp adult beverage or just relax and listen to our exceptional local talent. Come join our celebration! There are no admission or parking fees. The festival will be held along Tennessee Street in historic downtown Murphy from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, May 5. For more information on musicians, artists, restaurants and more please visit www.murphyspringfestival.com. Find us on Instagram and @wherencbegins and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/whereNCbegins/” For more information visit: www.murphyspringfestival.com or follow us on Facebook: @whereNCbegins and Find us on Instagram and @wherencbegins and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/whereNCbegins/”

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SPRING & SUMMER FESTIVALS 2018

Welcome to the most complete list of festivals and events in north Georgia! There’s surely more to do this Spring than humanly possible and we’re certain there’s something here for everyone. While every attempt has been made to provide accurate event listings, we urge you to confirm the information provided before making travel plans. With that said, come and see all that north Georgia and the southern Appalachians has to offer! North Georgia Zoo & Petting Farm Springtime Festival April 3- April 15, 2018 Join us in celebrating spring with baby animals, planting, fun kids activates and more! Open additional days for all those on spring break! General Admission $8 adult $6 child. TuesdayFriday 10-4p. Saturday & Sunday 10-6pm ( Closed Mondays). North Georgia Zoo & Farm 2912 Paradise Valley RD, Cleveland, GA 30528. For info 706.348.7279 or visit www.northgeorgiazoo.com Rhododendron Festival Hamilton Gardens April - May 2018 Rhododendron Festival is Back After a long cold winter, nothing says ‘spring is here’ quite like the blooming of the Rhododendron at Hamilton Gardens. The yearly tradition of strolling through 34

the magnificent and rare beauty of over 400 rhododendrons in an explosion of colors and varieties has just been made even more wondrous -- the Rhododendron Festival is coming back to the Hamilton Gardens! They don’t always bloom on schedule so be sure to check the website before going. Arts and craft vendors each weekend. Plants for sale. Georgia Mountain Fairground 1311 Music Hall Road, Hiawassee. 706-896-4191. 21st Annual Blue Ridge Writers’ Conference April 6-7, 2018 The Blue Ridge Writers’ Conference mission is to educate, inform and inspire writers. During this conference writers will network with fellow writers, expand their markets and learn to hone their skills in various break out sessions. The 21st annual conference begins with a Workshop Intensive held on Friday, April 6 from 10:30am-2:30pm. A Writers’ Meet and Greet will take place Friday evening at 5pm. Writers’ Conference sessions begin on Saturday, April 7 from 9am-5pm. Books sales from our conference speakers and member writers will also be made available both. Hosted by the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, 420 West Main Street, Blue Ridge GA 30513. For more info contact (706) 632- 2144, BlueRidgeArts@gmail.com or visit www.blueridgearts.net.

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Georgia Steeplechase Race & Festival April 7, 2018 Since 1966 the Steeplechase held at Kingston Downs is a timeless southern tradition held at one of the most widely respected tracks in the south east. An unforgettable day featuring local bands, food trucks, shopping, wine tastings, and a new kids corral. Racegoers will also enjoy the ever popular Hat Parade and Contest, the terrier races, and opportunity to attend the Chairman’s Pavilion and Brunch on the Backstretch parties. 9am 6pm. Kingston Downs, Rome, GA. For tickets and info visit: https://georgiasteeplechase.org/ Annual Georgia Mountain Storytelling Festival April 13 -14, 2018 Showcasing the art of storytelling with a particular focus on Appalachian stories, both traditional and contemporary. The GMSF offers storytelling and musical performances, children’s events, and workshops. Featured storytellers; Regi Carpenter, Lyn Ford, Michael Reno Harrell, Andy Offutt Irwin, Rev. Robert Jones, Sr. One of the highlights of the festival is our display of quilts made or owned by folks in our area. $35. Friday 9am to 9pm, Saturday, 9am to 9pm. Union County Schools Fine Arts Center, 926 Panther Overlook, Blairsville, GA 30512. For tickets and info: Call Ruth Looper-828-389-2654, email: info@gamountainstoryfest. org or visit www.gamountainstoryfest.org APRIL/MAY 2018

NOC Outdoor Elements Festival April 13- 14, 2018 Celebrate SPRING in the Smoky Mountains with a family-friendly event in the Nantahala Gorge. This event focuses on celebrating the Appalachian Trail thru-hikers and features our Flint Ridge 5k, along with a ton of free activities including outdoor films, yoga, live music, giveaways, meals, and sweet deals at the Outfitter’s Store. This event is a mustadd for your Spring calendar. For info visit the Nantahla Outdoor Center website: https://noc.com/ or call 828.785.4847. 3rd Annual Craft Beer Tasting April 21, 2018 Help us welcome Spring to Helen at our Spring Bier Fest! This will be a celebration of new life returning to the mountains of Northeast Georgia. Enjoy music, dancing, food, and beverages in the Festhalle on the banks of the beautiful Chattahoochee River. Featuring local craft brews and great German beers. Advance Tickets $25, Door $30, VIP $35. 12pm-5pm. Alpine Helen Festhalle, 1074 Edelweiss St., Helen, GA 30545. Info: www.helenchamber.com or 706.-878-1908. 21st Annual Bear on the Square Mountain Festival April 21 - 22, 2018 Historic Downtown Dahlonega’s award-winning Bear on the Square Mountain Festival is a yearly celebration of the Southern Appalachian culture, including an auction, music, art and folkways. Dahlonega is a picturesque town in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains and this year’s event will be held in and around the town’s Historic Square during the third weekend in April. Prefestival events, including the beginning of jamming on the square and the Live and Silent Country Auction will occur on Friday, April 20, 2018, with two full days of activities on Saturday and Sunday. For more info visit www.bearonthesquare.org. Contact: (706) 864-3711 or (800) 231-5543. 41st Annual Big Shanty Festival April 21-22, 2018 The Big Shanty Festival has grown to become one of the largest arts and crafts shows in north Georgia. More than 250 booths featuring a vast array of one-of-a-kind and homemade crafts. The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History sits at the center of the festival. Outstanding local entertainment and all your favorite festival foods. Parade kicks off at 9:30 am on Saturday at Adams Park and continue down Main Street through downtown Kennesaw. FREE. For more information call: 770-423-1330 or visit www.kennesawbusiness.org 1st Annual Georgia Mountain Needle Arts Festival & Retreat April 27- 29, 2018 Strings & Stitches Yarn Shoppe and The North Georgia Knitting Guild are proud to present the First Annual Georgia Mountain Needle Arts Festival. This event will take place in Ellijay at the Gilmer County Civic Center, April 27 -29. An absolute treat for knit, crochet, weaving, rug hooking enthusiasts and more, attendees of this event will gain access to a variety of vendors and educational resources. Needle artists will enjoy shopping for yarn, beads, hand dyed materials, APRIL/MAY 2018

artisan fiber, felted rug supplies, wood turning products and more. First Annual Mountain Needle Arts Festival & Retreat, The Gilmer County Civic Center, 1561 South Main St. Ellijay, GA 30540. Friday, April 27, from 12pm to 6pm. Saturday & Sunday, April 28 and 29, from 9pm to 5pm. There is a cash only admission fee of $5. Vendors will accept payments of checks, cash and credit. Parking is free. For more information regarding the Georgia Mountain Needle Arts Festival, including lists of sponsors, vendors, educational courses and local hotel and cabin rental options, please visit www.facebook.com/ georgiamountainneedleartsfestivalandretreat. 60th Annual Polk County Ramp Tramp Festival April 27-28, 2018 The ramp or wild leek, is a wild onion native to North America. The bulb resembles a scallion, but the flat, broad leaves set it apart, a version of the wild garlic. The festival brings hundreds to the camp each year to enjoy the traditional meal while bluegrass music is played. The traditional meal includes ramps fried in eggs, streaked meat, fried potatoes, white beans and cornbread. All proceeds are used for the operation and the upkeep of Camp McCroy, 1058 Hwy 30, Reliance TN. 7 miles north of Turtletown, TN. Email the Polk County Extension Director and 4-H Agent: Greg Paxton rgpaxton@utk.edu, call 423-338-4503. Visit www. ramptrampfestival.com Kennesaw Beer & Wine Festival April 28, 2018 Over 100 beers, featuring the local Georgia Breweries, and a select number of breweries from all over the country. This event will also feature over 25 wines, and a bunch of ciders as well. Lazy Guy Distillery will join us to taste small samples. A full list of beers, wines and ciders will be posted the week of the festival. Live music on the main stage. This is a 21 and up event, no exceptions, no kids, no babies, no pets. Rain or Shine, no refunds. 1pm – 5pm. Tickets are $35 advance, $40 after April 19, and $50 day of event. NO parking available. Depot Park, downtown Kennesaw. Visit www.kennesawbeerwinefest.com 3rd Annual Blue Ridge Trout Fest & Outdoor Adventures April 28, 2018 Celebrating the Trout Capital of Georgia from the epicenter of Fannin County. Fly fishing lessons, trout fishing gear, clothing and accessories. Enjoy adventure outfitters, local fishing guides, conservation information, lodging services, home decor and gifts, fly making, art, outdoor clothing and fishing gear, fishing seminars ... not to mention our amazing Food Truck Alley and Beer Garden! Learn all about trout and the conservation ethos associated with Trout Unlimited. Historic Downtown Blue Ridge City Park. 10am- 5pm. Admission $5, kids under 12, free. Call 706. 374. 2390 or email info@blueridgetroutfest.com. Visit www.blueridgetroutfest.com

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Smyrna Spring Jonquil Festival April 28 – 29, 2018 The Jonquil Festival is located on the beautiful Village Green in downtown Smyrna and will showcase arts and crafts by more than 150 artists/crafters from across the country. The event also offers fun for the entire family to enjoy with continuous entertainment, a children’s section, and a wide selection of festival foods. The Jonquil Jog will kick the festival off Saturday morning at 8:00 a.m., with the 5K Run/Walk, held at the City of Smyrna Municipal Building next to the Village Green- registration is required call 770-319-5401 or on-line at www.smyrnacity.com. The festival hours of operation are 10:00 a.m.6:00 p.m., on Saturday, and noon-5:00 p.m., on Sunday. FREE. For more information call Bill Watson at 770-4231330 or visit www.smyrnacity.com Fiber, Farm & Art Festival April 28 – 29, 2018 It’s sheep shearing time! Come join us and learn all about sheep shearing, spinning, and get free samples of wool! Check out Interactive Farm Demonstrations. Learn how to spin, trim hooves, train, and more! Fiber, Farm & Arts Festival! Come out to see all of the vendors and their creations! From Fiber Arts, Homesteading, Knitting, Painting, Crafts and more! General Admission $8 adult $6 child. Tuesday- Friday 10-4pm. Saturday & Sunday 10-6pm (Closed Mondays). North Georgia Zoo & Farm 2912 Paradise Valley RD, Cleveland, GA 30528. Call 706.348.7279 or visit www. northgeorgiazoo.com 28th Georgia Mountain Rally Hosted by the BMW Motorcycle Club of Georgia May 4 – 6, 2018 The BMW Motorcycle Club of GA celebrates its 28th Georgia Mountain Rally at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in Hiawassee. The area offers rewarding twisties, inspiring vistas and renowned mountain hospitality. Plus, this is dualsport heaven for all skill levels. The rally setting has lakeside tent and RV camping. All brands welcome. Registration includes tent camping sites on grass for Friday and Saturday nights, Friday chili and Saturday steak dinners, Saturday and Sunday breakfasts, regular rally attractions and major prize draws. Visit www.bmwmcoga.org or rally@bmwmcoga.org. 5th Annual Georgia Apple Blossom Festival May 5 & 6, 2018 Welcome to North Georgia! The Georgia Apple Blossom Festival brings one exciting weekend to East Ellijay, Georgia with over fifty hand-selected, regional vendors offering food, art, crafts, a business expo and more. The Georgia Apple Blossom Festival focus is everything LOCAL. Hosting the best arts, craft and food vendors in the region. There will be plenty of parking and restaurants in close proximity to the festival grounds. Only an hour north of Atlanta you can come enjoy the festival, and WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

all the sights and scenery Gilmer County has to offer. FREE! And Pet-Friendly! 9am-5pm on Saturday and 9am-4pm on Sunday in East Ellijay on Craig Street parallel to Highway 515. Visit www.georgiaappleblossomfestival.com or contact: Gilmer County Chamber 706-635-7400. 26th Annual Winefest May 5, 2018 WineFest is an annual celebration of Georgia wine with over a dozen wineries from around the state and region bringing some of their favorites to celebrate. There will be live music from Time White, food, and of course . . . wine tastings!!!! Tickets are $30 a person and include 15 Tasting Tickets and a Souvenir Wine Glass. There will also be a Kentucky Derby Hat Competition as the race will be going on that day. There is a $10 non-drinker entrance fee and under the age of 16 years are free. Wine pours will be 1, 2, or 3 tickets each depending on what each individual winery sets. Additional tasting tickets will be available on site for $5 for 5 more tickets. Activities include food, live music, wine arts, and crafts. Noon – 5pm. Contact Habersham Vineyards & Winery, 7025 South Main Street, Helen, GA 30545, 706878-9463 or visit www.habershamvineyards.com 1st Annual Murphy Spring Festival May 5, 2018 Join us for the first annual Murphy Spring Festival. Stroll the street in Historic Downtown Murphy, NC and meet vendors, enjoy local produce and foods. Vote for your favorite classic car as you listen to local bands on the Tennessee Street Stage. Free! 11am- 6pm. Celebrate what makes Murphy our favorite town! Rivers, trails, mountains, locally-owned business, superb people, and a beautiful downtown! Live music all day! Vendor booths! Local artists! Car show! Biergarten with local breweries! Restaurant specials! For more information visit: www.murphyspringfestival.com or follow us on Facebook: @whereNCbegins and Find us on Instagram and @wherencbegins and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/whereNCbegins/” Fiber Festival in the Valley May 5, 2018 If you are a fiber artist, teacher or vendor in the fiber field, plan on being a part of this exciting new event that celebrates fiber with workshops, demos, vendors and exhibits! This festival includes quilting, basketry, hooking, felting, knitting, spinning, weaving, dyeing, eco-dyeing, and more! SAUTEE NACOOCHEE CENTER, 283 Highway 255 North, Sautee Nacoochee, Georgia 30571 Telephone 706-878-3300. For more information email sauteefiber@myemc.net 9th Annual North Cobb Rotary Smoke on the Lake BBQ Festival May 11 -12, 2018 North Cobb Rotary is presenting this 100% Charity event that kicks off with a free concert on Friday night. This Georgia Barbecue Associationsanctioned barbecue cooking competition will continue all night along the banks of beautiful Lake Acworth and the event will open back up to the public on Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m. Tickets to taste the backyard teams BBQ will be APRIL/MAY 2018

on sale for a nominal charge. Cauble Park, 4425 Beach St, Acworth, GA 30101. Activities for the kids will be in the Kids Zone. For information, visit northcobbrotary.org, smokeonthelake.org 29th Annual Cherokee Indian Festival & Mother’s Day Powwow May 12 - 13, 2018 Celebrating Cherokee County’s rich history through entertainment, education and cultural fellowship! Native American dance exhibitions and competitions. Warriors on horseback. Native American cuisine. Native arts and crafts. Hoop dancers and Aztec dancers. Tipis, wigwam and living Indian village and displays. Northern Plains encampment and a Muscogee Creek settlement. Environmental and wildlife displays & Birds of Prey show. Saturday, 10am-6pm and Sunday, 11am-6pm. Tickets on sale at the gate: Adults (13 years and up): $15. Children (6-12 years old): $5. 5 years and under: FREE. Everyone is welcome! Boling Park, 1098 Marietta Hwy., Canton, GA 30114. For info: www.rthunder.com, 770-7356275 or rollingthunder34@ymail.com. 8th Annual Georgia Mountain Egg Fest May 18 – 19, 2018 An Egg Fest is a gathering of Big Green Egg fans and experienced cooks/chefs from all across the country. The cooks will be preparing recipes all day long. The non-cooks (tasters) are free to stroll through the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Hiawassee, GA and sample and experience wonderful “egged” food. Friday: Meet & Greet 5pm – 8pm. Saturday: 9am -5pm. Beer and wine will be available for purchase this year at the Eggfest, however please feel free to bring your own drink of choice to the Meet & Greet and/or to the Eggfest. For important details visit: www. mountainegg.com. Taster tickets are $25.00, kids under 12 free. For info call 706-896-4191 or www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com 15th Annual Canton Festival of the Arts May 19-20, 2018 A juried show for Fine Arts & Crafts, the festival is located in Canton’s Historic Downtown District. Artist’s Market has a wide variety of exhibitors from the state & surrounding areas. Serenity Gardens celebrates the art of living well; gardening, sustainability, and all things green. Tempting food concessions and a wine and beer garden. A Literary Celebration where readers & writers gather to share their love of the written word, participate in panel discussions and sign books. The Interactive Children’s Experience offers hands on art activities for children, including mural painting, photography, drawing, dance, drama and so much more. Live entertainment on the Main Stage. Historic Downtown Canton on Saturday and Sunday from 10am-5pm. Visit www. cantonartfestival.com/ Bacon and Banjos- A Bluegrass Music and Bacon Food Festival May 19, 2018 A convergence of the salty goodness of bacon and the downhome sounds of bluegrass music at the Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater (NHCA) with a portion of the funds benefitting the Woodstock Public Safety Foundation. Bluegrass APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

music, focusing on the music of North Georgia, on the main stage all day. A bacon food festival throughout the NHCA with juried items presented for judging. More delicious food than your stomach can handle! A craftsman alley with rustic creations for sale. 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheater, 101 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock, GA 30188. Contact: 770-5926000 x1955 3rd Annual Dahlonega Arts & Wine Festival May 19-20, 2018 Chestatee Artists presents this festival that features high quality arts & crafts, a Wine Garden for tasting fine local and regional wines, and jazz performances, in our historic downtown square and Hancock Park. Saturday hours are 10 to 6 pm and Sunday 10 to 5 pm. No admission is charged except for those wine lovers who wish to taste the fine wines from six different wineries. For more information go to www.chestateeartists.org or check out the facebook page, Dahlonega Arts & Wine Festival, or email chestatee.artists@gmail. com or call 706-867-8059. 3rd Annual Clusterfest at Crane Creek May 26, 2018 Celebrate SPRING and join us for our, a celebration of regional musical talent, artisans, wine, and food at Crane Creek Vineyards. Local and Regional singer\songwriters will be performing all day at the vineyard. Come for your favorite, or listen to them all. $20.00 per guest includes daily admission, food, wine tasting, shopping local artisans, a souvenir Crane Creek Vineyards wine glass, in addition to a front row seat to some of our areas best talent! 11am -6:00pm. Crane Creek Vineyards, 916 Crane Creek Road, Young Harris, GA. For more info: www. cranecreekvineyards.com or 706-379-1236. Helen Bavarian Fest May 26, 2018 Experience a bit of Bavaria while you and your family enjoy this Memorial Day celebration at the Festhalle! A live Oompa band, dancing, and a festive Bavarian atmosphere help us honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. Beer and wines; wursts on a bun, sauerkraut, hot dogs, pretzels and desserts available for sale. 6pm to 11pm. Admission: $8. Active military & vets receive free admission. 1074 Edelweiss Strasse, Helen GA. Contact www.helenchamber.com or call 706-8781908. 4nd Annual Spring Arts in the Park Festival May 26-27, 2018 Enjoy the 42nd annual Spring Arts in the Park fine arts and fine crafts festival held in the beautiful Downtown City Park of Blue Ridge, Georgia during Memorial Day weekend. Admire the variety of artwork, enjoy tasty food, watch multiple artist demos and see art from over 175 juried fine arts and fine crafts exhibitors throughout the weekend festival. Weekend Admission: adults $5; children under 12 free. All proceeds go to benefit the Blue WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

Chestatee Artists, Inc. Presents

HLONEGA A D

Quality Arts & Crafts, Fine Wine & Live Jazz MAY 19 & 20, 2018

Sat. 10 am to 6 pm • Sun. 10 am to 5 pm Historic Downtown Square of Dahlonega Visual Arts, Performing Arts and a Wine Garden for Tasting Local and Regional Wines. For more information go to...

www.chestateeartists.org LIKE us and Share on Facebook: Dahlonega Arts & Wine Festival

4th Annual Tear Drop Half Marathon, 10K & 5K

7:30am, SATURDAY APRIL 28th The Springtime Mountains of North Georgia are Calling You!

Starts on top of Fort Mountain and finishes 2000’ below in beautiful Chatsworth City Park The race courses are on all paved roads and feature miles of 5-10% grade downhill. Just 70 miles north of Atlanta!

www.teardrophalf.com 38

Ridge Mountains Arts Association, a 501c3 nonprofit community arts association. Arts in the Park is one of the town’s signature events. Admission $5, kids free. Saturday & Sunday 10am – 5pm. Proceeds go to the Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association. For info visit www.blueridgearts.net or call Lisa Tyler at 706632-2144. 11th Annual Blairsville Spring Arts & Crafts Festival May 26-27, 2018 On the Square in Blairsville, Memorial Day weekend. Over 60 vendors offering a unique blend of hand produced merchandise. Ongoing Bluegrass and County Music throughout the day. Also, lets not forget the food - hot dogs, hamburgers, sausage, cold drinks and more for your enjoyment, and local restaurants and retail shops to peruse and pick up that special find. All activities will take place on the Square around the Old Courthouse. Saturday & Sunday 10am – 5pm, rain or shine. Visit the Union County Historical Society at www.unioncountyhistory.org or call 706-745-5493. 45th Annual Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race & Festival May 31- June 2, 2018 The South’s oldest balloon event will begin with a mass ascension of 30 colorful hot air balloons. Balloonists compete in local events Thursday evening beginning around 6pm thru Saturday. Local flying events will take place also on Friday and Saturday. The balloons will fly around 7:30am and 6:00pm each day (weather permitting). Many opportunities available to the public; assisting with the inflations, being a part of a chase crew, taking a tethered ride in a balloon or a champagne flight over the mountains. For more information contact Race Headquarters at 706-878-2271 to schedule a balloon flight. www.helenballoon.com. 3rd Annual Annual North Georgia Highlands Seafood Festival June 1- 3, 2018 Come on out to experience a variety of seafood vendors from Blairsville to Savannah! Eat some serious seafood, tap your toes to live music, stroll through more than 50 arts and crafts exhibitors. Featuring tons of delicious food, outstanding music and affordable homespun arts & crafts. Beer & wine garden. Families will enjoy the playground and the National Crab Races. Bring a chair or blanket to sit back and enjoy the live music. Friday 3pm – 9pm, Saturday 10am – 9pm, Sunday 10am – 5pm. Free parking. Admission is $5 cash, kids under 12, free. Pet friendly! Saturday 1pm auction to benefit the Towns County Food Pantry. Mayors Park, Hwy 76, Young Harris, GA. For info and tickets call 706-897-6179 or visit their web site at: www. northgeorgiahighlandsseafoodfestival.com 44th Annual Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race & Festival June 1 – 3, 2017 The South’s oldest balloon event will begin with a mass ascension of 30 colorful hot air balloons. Balloonists compete in local events Thursday evening beginning around 6pm thru Saturday.

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Local flying events will take place also on Friday and Saturday. The balloons will fly around 7:30am and 6:00pm each day (weather permitting). Many opportunities available to the public; assisting with the inflations, being a part of a chase crew, taking a tethered ride in a balloon or a champagne flight over the mountains. For more information contact Race Headquarters at 706-878-2271 to schedule a balloon flight. www.helenballoon.com. 7th Annual Art, River and Music Festival Date TBD, 2018 Downtown Murphy, NC on the beautiful River Walk trail located at the Historic L&N Depot. The Farmers Market will take place at the Depot, and the Art, River and Music Festival will stretch back in the cool shade along the River Walk trail. Arts activities for kids are available, as well as other fun diversions! Art: Over 50 local and regional artists will have booths both in the Farmers Market and in the juried section along the River Walk. Live demonstrations of artists work will be featured throughout the day. River: Appalachian Outfitters and the Hiwassee River Watershed Coalition (HRWC) will lead free to the public canoe trips on the river, visiting various points of interest. Music: The stage will feature local and regional musicians and dancers and will include music and dance traditional to our unique mountain region! FREE! 9am - 4pm. For more info visit www. cherokeeartscouncil.org 13th Annual Wing & Rock Fest June 9 - 10, 2018 This FREE event is the third largest wing fest in the country. The amphitheater stage will feature live rock tribute & cover bands plus School of Rock performances. The Kid Zone will feature amusement rides and bounce houses. Wing vendors compete in several competitions throughout the weekend to determine who has the best tasting buffalo sauces and non-buffalo sauces, plus try and win you over for the coveted People’s Choice Award. Enter the City of Canton wing eating contest for a chance to win some great prizes. Saturday, Noon – 9:00 p.m. Sunday, Noon – 6:00 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs & blankets and make a day of it. Saturday, June 4, Noon – 10:00 p.m., Sunday, June 5, Noon – 6:00 p.m. Etowah River Park, Canton, GA. Visit www. wingandrockfest.com 4th Annual Lavender Festival June 9, 2018 This will be a closed event to make it enjoyable and pleasant for everyone. Who would know we would be so popular last year! Time of attendance will be morning bookings of 9 am - 12 am or afternoon bookings of1 pm - 4 pm. Tickets will be available beginning April 1st. Purchase your tickets from April 1st till sold out. Once sold out they are gone. No no one will be allowed to just walk in the day of festival, since this is a closed event. Pets NOT allowed on the farm at any time. Red Oak Lavender Farm, 2882 Red Oak Flats Road, Dahlonega, GA 30533. Contact (678) 577 – 9041 or visit redoaklavender.com

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15th Annual Blairsville Scottish Festival & Highland Games June 9– 10, 2018 Blairsville Scottish Festival and Highland Games is held the second weekend in June at Meeks Park in Blairsville, GA. This three day event offers a the Kilted Golf Classic; Ceilidh (dinner party); Pipe and Drum Bands; Athletic Competitions; Vendors; Children’s Games; a Concert; and Scottish Food, Music, Scottish Dancing, Reenactments, Geneology, Ancient Scottish Weaponry and the popular Highland Games. Live animals and demonstrations, Highland Cattle, Scottish Setters, Falconry and sheep herding. Saturday night concert featuring Seven Nations. No pets in Meeks Park, please. For Additional Information Visit: www.BlairsvilleScottishFestival.com. Contact Information: 706-745-2161 or email: BSFHG1@ yahoo.com. Blue Ridge Mountains Wine & Jazz Festival June 16, 2018 Get out your favorite chair/blanket, hat and maybe even your dancing shoes! Enjoy some great jazz, sip some great wines and taste some delicious food. There will be a selection of wines from around the world as well as wines from the North Georgia Mountains. Buy it by the glass or the bottle. Gates open at 2 pm, Music 3 to 9 pm. No pets, no coolers, no outside food or drinks. The focus of the Blue Ridge Mountains Wine & Jazz Festival is for the North Georgia Mountains to be recognized as “A Cultural Tourism Destination” and to provide opportunities for students of jazz music. Location: 52 Boardtown Road, Blue Ridge GA (next to Mountain Top Cabin Rentals). For info call 706-698-1275 or 561-889-7499. Visit www. blueridgewineandjazz.com 33rd Annual British in the Blue Ridge June 22 – 23, 2018 Make your camping reservations with Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds for the event. We look forward to seeing everyone for another fun weekend of British Bikes in the north Georgia mountains! Rally, rides and bike show. Sponsored by the Greater Atlanta British Motorcycle Association. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Hiawassee, GA. Visit www.gabma.us or www. georgiamountainfairgrounds.com

Bluff Depot. Motor Car Rides: Suggested Donation $10.00 for Adults, $5.00 for Children 2-12. Hand Pump Car Rides, $1.00 per person per round trip. A fun day for all! Visit the depot and see the progress being made on our large “HO” gauge model railroad based on the “Old Line” from Atlanta to Etowah, TN and through Mineral Bluff to Murphy, NC! Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 150 Railroad Avenue (Hwy 60 northbound, Railroad avenue is next street on your left after the 4 way stop sign at Spur 60). For more information 706-455-8903 1st Annual Lake Chatuge Made in Georgia Festival June 30-July 1, 2018 Come out to the 1st Annual Made in Georgia Festival featuring 100 vendors offering a wide variety of products made, grown, brewed, harvested, stitched, crafted, or inspired by Georgia. This festival will provide attendees the opportunity to sample our cuisine, have a unique shopping opportunity, and it will educate them about Georgia’s history. Come hungry and buy local! Admission $5, children ages 14 and under free. 10:00am - 5:00pm. Towns County Rec Center 150 Foster Park Rd. Young Harris, GA 30546. For info visit www.golakechatuge.com or call Crystal 706-896-4966. 68th Annual Georgia Mountain Fair July 20 – 28, 2018 Thousands of visitors from across the region have experienced the excitement and nostalgia that this event has to offer. With first class musical performances, arts & crafts, fun carnival rides, Georgia’s rich history and culture, the Fair provides something for every member of the family. Top-notch musical performances, “Old Ways Demonstrations and a Pioneer Village! Free parking. Children under 12, free. Georgia Mountain Fair, Inc. P.O. Box 444, Hiawassee, GA 30546. View entire Fair schedule at www. georgiamountainfairgrounds.com For more info Phone: (706) 896-4191.

12th Annual Mountain Fling June 23- 24, 2018 Enjoy arts & crafts galore the last weekend in June. A two - day juried show featuring original fine art and fine crafts, ceramics, fiber art, linens, jewelry, soaps, gourds, leather goods, pet items, outdoor art. Exhibits set both in-doors and out. Saturday 9am – 4pm. Sunday 11am – 4pm. The event will be held at North Georgia Technical College, 121 Meeks Ave Blairsville, GA. See more at: www.blairsvillechamber.com. Contact Information: 706-896-0932. Or visit www. artworksgalleryga.com

20th Annual Butternut Creek Festival July 21-22, 2018 Celebrate and enjoy the Arts of this Mountain Region! A family event nestled along the shady banks of Butternut Creek at the beautiful Meeks Park. The Butternut Creek Festival is one of the finest juried arts and crafts shows in the southeast. Showcasing the work of 65 hand selected artists and craftsmen in categories from basketry, fine art, fabric art, and decorative painting, to glass, jewelry, metal working, photography, pottery, scrimshaw, and woodturning. Enjoy live music, demonstrations and great food. Free! Meeks Park: 11 Pool Lane, Blairsville, GA. on the South side of Hwy 76/515, just 0.7 miles west of the Hwy 19/129 traffic light. For more info contact High Country Artisans: 706-781-1221 or visit www.butternutcreekfestival.com

Ride the Rails Festival June 23- 24, 2018 Mineral Bluff. A 5 mile round trip by railroad motor car traveling through the Iron Bridge over the beautiful Toccoa River, then returning over the bridge back to the beautiful and historic Mineral

10th Annual Mountain Moonshine Cruiz-In July 12- 14, 2018 Come join us for the Annual Georgia Mountain Moonshine Cruiz-In at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds on beautiful Lake Chatuge. Camping is available. Stay right at the show site. Enjoy

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three fun filled days of good ole mountain hillbilly fun. See a Pioneer village, real moonshine still in the works, mountain crafts, and plenty of hot classic cars, trucks, bikes, rat rods, swat meet and more! Contact us: 662- 587- 9572 or www. gammoonshinecruizin.com Mountain Sunshine Arts & Crafts Festival July 18 – 19 A two day juried event featuring 40 local and regional vendors showcasing their handmade soaps, candles, rustic signs, pottery, wood carving, pillows, photography, and more Presented by Pumpkin Hollow Handmade Crafts and From Our Hands to Your Heart. Free! Show hours are from 9-4 on Saturday and 11-4 on Sunday. North Georgia Technical College Blairsville, GA. For more information please visit Pumpkin Hollow Handmade Crafts on Facebook. Annual Blairsville Green Bean Festival August 4, 2018 Celebrate the green bean and “green” living with pageants, a square dance, tractor show, quilting exhibit, storytellers, crafts, “living green” demonstrations, farmers’ market, and “Green Ribbon” recipe contest. Look for different varieties of green beans (from heirloom pole beans to mountain white half-runners) and lots of other fresh, juicy produce freshly harvested by Union County farmers. The whole county turns out for this “Country Fair” type event. 7am – 1pm. Blairsville Farmer’s Market, 148 Old Smokey Road, Blairsville, GA 30512. Visit www. blairsvillechamber.com or www.ucfarmersmarket. com Mountain Heritage Festival September 1 – 2, 2018 The Heritage Festival celebrates the history and mountain culture of Union County, GA on the grounds of the Historic Mountain Life Museum around the 1906 Butt-Mock home. There will be music on the porch, arts & crafts vendors, food vendors, as well as demonstrations of skills used by Union County’s earliest settlers. Visit the Union County Historical Society at www. unioncountyhistory.org or call 706-745-5493. Cartecay Vineyards Crush Festival September 1 - 2, 2018 Enjoy Grape Stomping, Wine Tastings and Cartecay Vineyards’ Logo Wine Glass. Live music 11:15 to 2:45 and 3:15 to 6:30 Vendors: Food and Arts/ Crafts Vendors on Site. 10:30am – 7pm. $25.00 Cartecay Vineyards: 5704 Clear Creek Road, Ellijay, GA 30536. For info visit www.caretcayvineyards. com or call 706-698-9463 (WINE) ACLM While every attempt has been made to provide accurate event listings, we urge you to confirm the information provided before making travel plans.

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INSIDE ARTS

First Fridays Murphy Art Walk Murphy, NC. Local chefs and individuals make their special dishes. Stroll through historic downtown Murphy for an exquisite visual, culinary, and performing arts experience. Galleries, restaurants, and many other businesses will feature art, live working artists, live performances, music, and fine dining. Presented by The Valley River Arts Guild 5-8 pm. Visit http://www.valleyriverarts.com or call Tim Ford (828) 360-3038 4/6- 5/5 Impressionist Art of Larry Smith Blue Ridge, GA. Welcome award winning impressionistic artist, Larry Smith to the Art Center with his beautiful oil paintings filled with dynamic color, movement and energy. Opening reception is April 6, 5-7pm. For info visit www.blueridgearts.net or BlueRidgeArts@gmail.com or call 706-632-2144. 4/6 – 6/30 AIR 2nd Qtr – Chloe Grusenmeyer Blue Ridge, GA. Celebrate the vibrant oil paintings of Chloe Grusenmeyer in her first professional presentation at the age of 84 years young! “Life in Your Hands” depicts various vignettes from our lives brilliantly captured with poses and gestures of human hands. Opening reception is April 6, 5-7pm. For info visit www.blueridgearts.net or BlueRidgeArts@gmail.com or call 706-632-2144. 4/13 – 5/27 B.E.S.T. Visual Art Exhibit – “Pine Needle Basketry – The Art of Jae Holstein” Ellijay, GA. Award winning works. Opening reception Friday 4/13. 7pm. Free. 40

Gilmer Arts Gallery, 207 Dalton Street, Ellijay, GA 30540. Info: www.gilmerarts.com or 706-635-5605. 4/21 Meet The Authors Ellijay, GA. Featuring Terry Kay. Mr. Kay is the author of several acclaimed novels including The King Who Made Paper Flowers, Song of the Vagabond Bird, The Greats of Cuttercane, Bogmeadow’s Wish, The Book of Marie, To Dance With the White Dog, The Valley of Light, Taking Lottie Home, The Kidnapping of Aaron Greene, Shadow Song, The Runaway, Dark Thirty, After Eli, and The Year the Lights Came On, as well as a book of essays, Special K: The Wisdom of Terry Kay, and two children’s books, The Seventh Mirror and To Whom the Angel Spoke. 1pm – 5pm. Gilmer Arts – Hawthorne Hall, 207 Dalton St. Ellijay, GA 30540. www. gilmerarts.com or 706-6355605. 4/28 Morning Creatives: Paper Seeding Join us for creativity and conversation. This month build your creative toolkit with making plantable paper, containing seeds ready for your garden. All materials provided or bring your own seeds. 10am – noon. Gilmer County Library, 268 Calvin Jackson Drive, Ellijay, GA 3054. Contact: 706-6354528 or http://sequoyahregionallibrary.org. 5/5 Plein Air Painters in the Gardens Hiawassee, GA. 11am- 2pm. FREE. Hamilton Gardens, Gps- 96 pavilion road-at the top of Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds Info: www. hamiltongardens.org or (706)970-0011.

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NORTH GEORGIA'S GUIDE TO AREA

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

5/10 – 6/9 Celebration of Artisans, SAAG Member Show Blue Ridge, GA. Enjoy unforgettable 2D and 3D creations from our very own Southern Appalachian Artist Guild members, ranging from pottery, painting, photography and more. This is a member-based show from one of the largest artist guilds in North Georgia. For info visit www.blueridgearts.net or BlueRidgeArts@gmail.com or call 706-632-2144.

ADVENTURE 2X 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. Visit website for calendar and availability: www.mountainhighhikers.org Weekends Blue Ridge. Come enjoy the races at the Blue Ridge Motorsports Park! Gates Open: 2pm Hot Laps: 4pm Racing Starts: 5pm Blue Ridge Motorsports Park 2252 Sugar Creek Rd, Blue Ridge, GA 30513 (706) 2373625 www.blueridgemotorsportspark.com. Weekends Ocoee River. Whitewater rafting begins its 2017 season on April 1st! Weekends only until May 25th. The Ocoee River has continuous rapids and many play spots for miles of endless fun and adventure. Visit: http://www.blueridgemountains.com/members/ CT287

Second Saturday of every month. Benton MacKaye Trail (BMT) needs volunteers to work on the trail. Something for everyone from cutting back weeds and painting blazes on trees and more. For more information, contact Barry Allen, GA Maintenance Dir. at bmtabarry@gmail.com. www.bmta.org and find us on Facebook Weekends Ocoee River. Whitewater rafting begins its 2018 season on April 1st! Weekends only until May 25th. The Ocoee River has become the most popular whitewater rafting adventure in America with continuous rapids and many play spots for miles of endless fun and adventure. Find them here: http://www. blueridgemountains.com/ members/CT287 Second Saturday Every Month Benton MacKaye Trail (BMT) needs volunteers to work on the trail. Something for everyone from cutting back weeds and painting blazes on trees and more. For more information, contact Barry Allen, GA Maintenance Dir. at bmtabarry@gmail.com. www. bmta.org and find us on Facebook 4/21 Earth Day Paddle Dawsonville, GA. The Mountain Conservation Trust of Georgia has organized a scenic 9-mile paddle trip on the Etowah River. Paddle through the Dawson Forest Wildlife Management Area, a region teeming with birds and other wildlife, and home to the Cherokee and Etowah Darters, which live nowhere else in the world. Bring your own boat or rent gear from Appalachian Outfitters. Shuttle is $15 per canoe/$10

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per kayak. Meet 9:30 am at the take-out point, Kelly Bridge Road in Dawsonville. Advanced reservation and payment must be made before April 18, 2018 by calling MCT at 706/253-4077. Visit www.mctga.org. 4/21- 4/22 Nantahala Freestyle Shootout Nantahala Gorge, NC. Join NRC for a fun weekend of Clinics and Competition in the discipline of Freestyle. This event is designed for people of all ages and abilities and will offer advanced as well as beginner categories. Saturday will offer clinics to paddlers covering the rules, offering handy competition tips, and allowing time for practice runs to prepare for the event. 8am- 5pm. $25. Info: www.noc.com or 828.785.4850 4/28 3rd Annual Teardrop Half Marathon, 10K & 5K Chatsworth, GA. Lace up your sneakers, lean forward and get ready for the 3rd Annual Tear Drop Half Marathon! Start on top of Fort Mountain at an elevation near 3000 feet and finish in Chatsworth, Georgia, for an over 2000-foot drop for the Half Marathon. All courses (13.1, 10K, 5K) will be USAT&F certified for those participants that are looking to set a personal record or for a qualifying time. Beautiful medals for all finishers, T-Shirts, raffle prizes, live music, post-race hot food, cold drinks; beer for 21 and over! Chatsworth is 80 miles from Atlanta, 40 miles from Chattanooga and 10 miles from Dalton. For details & registration visit www.teardrophalf.com.

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AC LIVING CALENDAR 4/28 Cohutta 100 For more than a decade the Cohutta 100 has been a staple in endurance mountain bike scene. You’d be hard pressed to find an ultra endurance mountain biker who hasn’t raced the Cohutta 100. Racers from around the world gather each year in the Cherokee National Forest to test their physical ability and mental will. 7am start. Pre-registration required, visit www.roostracingllc. com. Contact roostracingllc@gmail.com or (423) 521-2571 4/28 Big Frog 65 The Big Frog 65 is a favorite race in the endurance scene. It packs 8,000+ feet of climbing in just 65 miles. Racers will enjoy the same single track, mountain views and fast descents through the Cherokee National Forest as the Cohutta 100. Preregistration required, visit www.roostracingllc.com. Contact roostracingllc@ gmail.com or (423) 5212571 4/28 Old Copper 20 Copperhill, TN. The Old Copper 20 mountain bike race takes place in beautiful Southeastern Tennessee’s Cherokee National Forest. Participants will enjoy wooded and flowing single track, challenging climbs, fast descents, and just enough fire roads to catch your breath. 8:30 am. Pre-registration required, visit www.roostracingllc.com. Contact roostracingllc@gmail.com or (423) 521-2571 5/19 Blue Ridge Adventure Racing Weekend Two races, an 8 hour and a 24 hour race. Disciplines: Mountain Biking, Trekking and Paddling. Race director Jeff Leininger will be setting 2 incredible courses. Teams will be able to choose between the 8 hour race and the 24 hour race. Both races will start at 9 AM. www. flxadventures.com APRIL/MAY 2018

4/28 & 5/26 Gilmer Saddle Club Horse Show Ellijay, GA. 1727 S Main St, Ellijay, GA 30540. Phone: (706) 636-3779 or visit www.gilmercountysaddleclub.com

4th Fridays Classic Car Cruise-In Blue Ridge, Dairy Queen. Cruise ins are always free to attend! 6-8pm. Contact Annette Long: georgiamountainclassics@hotmail.com, 706-838-4701

5/26 Merrell Adventure Dash Nantahala Gorge, NC. Suitable for families as well as adults, will negotiate a series of natural and manmade obstacles along the 5K course, including balance components, climbs and nets, a river-run, and mud pit. Enjoy a fun, familyfriendly adventure run in the Nantahala Gorge. 5K dash or a 1K fun run. Kids aged 12 and under race free with a participating adult. $15$20. 4pm. Info: www.noc. com or 828.785.4850

First Fridays Downtown Canton, GA. First Friday, April-October, Historic Downtown Canton Loop Block Party, Car Show, Live Music, Food & Good Times! Downtown Canton, 6 p.m. Visit www.cherokeechamber.com

5/28 Memorial Run for the Rhodies Hiawassee, GA. 8am. $25 in advance. Hamilton Gardens, Gps- 96 pavilion road-at the top of Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds Info: www. hamiltongardens.org or (706)970-0011.

EVENTS Saturdays The Barking Lot The Barking Lot in downtown Blue Ridge, GA is buzzing with people. The wonderful volunteers bring our adoptable rescues and try to find them good homes. Come and visit our rescues. They would love to see you! We are at The Barking Lot from 11am - 3pm (weather permitting). East 1st Street & Messer. 706-633-7282 2nd Saturdays Block Party! Downtown Blue Ridge. Come out and play at this old fashioned Block Party held the 2nd Sat. each month. Stores will have special sales, offer refreshments and entertainment! Live music and more! Visit http://bestofblueridge. biz/ or 706-258-2432.

4/7 & 4/8 Get Outdoors! Expo Young Harris, GA. Whether your passion is fishing, hunting, boating, camping, biking, or hiking, you’ll find it all at our Get Outdoors! Expo. Compare and buy boats or RV’s, see what’s new for hunting and fishing gear, learn camping and outdoor skills, and much more. Expo visitors can try their hands at two days of fun in the outdoors. 10am5pm. $5.00. Towns County Conference Center, 150 Foster Park Rd, Young Harris, GA 30582. Info: http://www. golakechatuge.com or 706896-4966.

4/21 11th Annual Taste of Blue Ridge Blue Ridge, GA. Local restaurants will provide food, the event will also include a silent auction, a live auction, beer/wine and great live music. Tickets go on sale MARCH 1st! TICKETS NOT AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR THIS YEAR! Get your ticket early, as this event always sells out. Tickets on line at www.humanesocietyofblueridge.org. 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Willow Creek Falls & Vineyard – 35 Trackside Ct, Blue Ridge, GA. SOLD OUT! 4/21 Earth Day Celebration Hiawassee, GA. Demonstrations, speakers, info tables, trash to treasures, recycled master pieces. FREE. 10am- 2pm. Hamilton Gardens, Gps96 pavilion road-at the top of Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds Info: www. hamiltongardens.org or (706)970-0011.

4/26 Trout Dinner - Hiwassee River Watershed Coalition Blairsville, GA. Benefitting the HRWC. Farm-raised smoked trout, baked beans, coleslaw, potato salad, cornbread, homemade desserts and a drink. 5:30- 7pm. $15. Meeks Park, approximately one mile west of Blairsville on US 76. Pavilion #3. Tickets & Info: www.hrwc. net/events/trout-dinner/ or 828-837-5414. 4/28 Celebrate The Gardens Benefit. Hiawassee, GA. $25. 5:30pm – 7:30 pm. Hamilton Gardens, Gps- 96 pavilion road-at the top of Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds Info: www.hamiltongardens.org or (706)970-0011. 5/4 Veterans Fishing Rodeo Blue Ridge, GA. Free Event. Rain or Shine. 9 a.m. to 12 noon. Must bring own fishing gear and bait. Free lunch and prizes. Georgia Sports Fishing Regulations apply. 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

4/20 Georgia’s Wild Plants Seminar Blairsville, GA. Linda Chafin, Conservation Botanist, Science and Conservation Program, State Botanical Garden of Georgia, University of Georgia. Georgia is one of the most species-rich states in the country, with more than 4000 plants. Linda will talk about the “wild gardens” that grace Georgia’s many natural communities, with an emphasis on those found in the Southern Blue Ridge. 10am – Noon. Free. The Georgia Mountain Research & Education Center auditorium, 3 miles south of the Blairsville Square, on the east side of Hwy 19/129. Info: Clare Johnston, 706-745-2655

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Chattahoochee Fish Hatchery, 4730 Rock Creek Road, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513. For info: kelly_taylor@fws.gov or 706-8384723 5/5 Homeward Bound Pet Rescue Annual Yard Sale Ellijay, GA. Rain or Shine! We will be inside this year! We are already accepting donations! Please contact: Kathryn Newman. 8am 5pm. Gilmer County Civic Center 1561 S Main St # A, Ellijay, Georgia 30540 706-258-7080 or email: callthecook@gmail.co 5/12 Garden Tea and Fashion Show Hiawassee, GA. 1pm-3pm. $17.50. Hamilton Gardens, Gps- 96 pavilion road-at the top of Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds Info: www. hamiltongardens.org or (706)970-0011. 5/8 – 7/4 Special War Memorial Exhibit Blairsville, GA. Once a year - Memorial Day through Independence Day in the Old Courthouse. At the Union County Historical Society we have a lot of respect for the men and women who have fought in the past. Exhibits include a variety of items such as flags, uniforms, documents and photos, weapons, and other memorabilia from past wars. Please come and view our exhibits during this time of remembrance. Donations accepted. M-F: 10am-4pm, Sat 11am – 3pm. Union County Historical Society, P.O. Box 35, Blairsville GA, 30512. Info: www.unioncountyhistory.org or (706) 745 – 5493 5/9 Cherokee County, NC Chamber of Commerce Annual Golf Classic Hayesville, NC. The tournament will be a four player, best-ball format. Cash prizes: $600 for the first place team, $450 for second place and $300 for third place. 42

Additional prizes for various individual challenges. The Chamber is searching for businesses and individuals to sponsor this event. Sponsorship deadline: April 23rd, 2018. Team pre-registration deadline: May 4th, 2018. Tee time- 1pm. The Ridges Country Club. For info call. (828) 837-2242 5/11 Keeping the Promise Talking Rock, GA. Chateau Meichtry will host this year’s fundraiser to benefit The Promise Foundation providing hospice comfort and care to loved ones in their final days. Wine tasting, light fare, live music and silent auction. Friday 6 -9 pm. $25/ticket. Chateau Meichtry, 1862 Orchard Lane,Talking Rock, GA 30175. www.chateaumeichtry.com. For tickets and info contact HeartLite Hospice, 772Maddox Dr. Ste. 112, Ellijay, GA 30540. Phone: 706.635.7001. 5/12 Annual Master Gardener’s Plant Sale Blue Ridge, GA. Native and non-native plants, perennials and annuals, plants for sun and shade, hanging baskets for Mother’s Day. Master Gardeners available for advice. Cash or check only, please. All proceeds provide scholarships to High School students. 8am – 4pm. United Community Bank Pavilion, Highway 515 & W. 1st Street, Blue Ridge. Located behind the Burger King. Info: uge1111@uga.edu 5/12 Georgia Mountain Classic Car Show Blue Ridge, GA. Over 100 cars. Registration starts at 9:00 a.m. Door prizes and trophies for the top 75 vehicles and specialty awards. Goody Bags, concessions, Judging from 12:00 to 3 p.m. Awards will be announced at 4 p.m. Downtown, 907 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513. Info: georgiamountainclassics@hotmail.com or 706-374-4480.

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5/16 -5/20 American Veterans Traveling Vietnam Wall Ellijay, GA. Riders will be escorting the wall. Sponsored by: The American Legion Post 82 & Ellijay Lions Club. Open to the public. Ellijay Lions Club Fairgrounds, 1729 South Main Street, Ellijay, GA. Info: http://www. avtt.org or (706) 276-4878 5/26 Memorial Day Parade Blairsville, GA. Info: www. unioncountyhistory.org or (706) 745 – 5493

KIDS OF ALL AGES Ongoing Mountain Regional Library System Events Visit your local library for weekly events such as Story Time, Board Games, Crafting Club, Book Club & more! Visit mountainregionallibrary. org Ongoing Sequoyah Regional Library System Events Visit your local library for weekly events for kids of all ages such as Story Time, Kendama Club, Teen Japanese Culture, Youth Crochet Club, Dungeons & Dragons, Lego Club, Coloring Group, Book Club and more! Visit www.sequoyahregionallibrary.org Thru September Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Blue Ridge, GA. Our regular 4 hour, 26 mile round trip winds along the beautiful Toccoa River for 1 hour in vintage climate-controlled or open-air rail cars.The relaxing ride starts at the historic depot, built in 1905 in downtown Blue Ridge, then stops for a two hour layover in the quaint sister towns of McCaysville, Georgia and Copperhill, Tennessee. Tickets & info: www.brscenic.com or 877-413-8724.

4/7 3rd Annual Superhero 5 K & Fun Run Downtown Blue Ridge, GA. Come and join the Blue Ridge Elementary School’s Superhero 1 mile Fun Run and 5K! The course is paved and flat with very little inclines. Please come dressed as your favorite superhero or superhero team and the best costume(s) will win a prize! Refreshments served after the race. All proceeds go directly to Blue Ridge Elementary School. Registration: 7am-7:30am. Contact info: shannonyork7931@gmail.com or 706-632-5772. 4/20 & 5/7 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 learn how railroads played an important role in the development of the Tri-State area. Enjoy history, model railroading, and great conversation about this Tri-State Region’s railroading history. 10am -2pm. Tri-State Model Railroaders Mineral Bluff Historic Depot 150 Railroad Avenue, Mineral Bluff, GA 30559. For information call 828-3612210 or visit www.tsmri.org. 4/14 & 5/12 Lego Club The Lego Club has a different theme each month. Children can work alone or in teams to make their special creation, which will be displayed in the library until next month’s meeting. All ages, under 9 years of age with an adult please. 2 – 3pm. Free. Gilmer County Library, 268 Calvin Jackson Drive, Ellijay, GA 3054. Contact: 706-635-4528 or http://sequoyahregionallibrary.org. 4/21 Going Green Earth Day Celebration Ellijay, GA. Explore Earth Day fun with a book reading, making a bird feeder,

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observing earthworms, and creating unique crafts! Children must be accompanied by a participating adult. 2:00 PM - 4:30. Free. Gilmer County Library, 268 Calvin Jackson Drive, Ellijay, GA 3054. Contact: 706-6354528 or http://sequoyahregionallibrary.org.

MUSIC Every Evening Bell Music from the Tower 7:00pm – 7:30pm. At the Historic Courthouse on the Square in Downtown Blairsville, GA. Free! Contact (706) 745-5493 or www. unioncountyhistory.org Fridays & Saturdays Andrews Brewing Company Great music, craft beer and a good time. 6pm – 8pm. Andrews Brewing Company, 14 Miles for Harrah’s Casino, 565 Aquone Road, Andrews, NC 28901. For info: 828-321-2006 or www.andrewsbrewing.com Sundays WYYZ’s Live Music at Rocco’s Rocco’s Pub, 47 Mountainside Village Parkway, Jasper, GA. Contact 706.253.1900 or visit http:// roccosjasper.com Thursdays - Saturdays Live Music at Blue Ridge Brewery Blue Ridge Brewery, 187 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA . 706. 632. 6611 or www. blueridgebrewery.com Fridays Concert Series at the Old Courthouse Blairsville, GA. Free! 7pm. Old Historic Courthouse, 1 Town Square, Blairsville GA. For info: Union County Historical Society 706-7455493 or http://www.unioncountyhistory.org/ 3rd Friday Every Month Live Music Acoustic Blends Listen to a Variety of Quality Music Acts … or Join the Jam! Bring your own libaAPRIL/MAY 2018

AC LIVING CALENDAR tions and munchies. 7 pm. Free & Public Invited. For info please contact Gilmer Arts 207 Dalton St. Ellijay, GA 30540. 706-635-5605. Visit www.gilmerarts.org Weekends LIve Music at Engelheim Vineyards Engelheim Vineyards 127 Lakeview Road, Ellijay, GA 30540. Call 706-635-WINE (9463) or visit www.engelheim.com. Weekends Fannin Brewing Company Live Music in the Bier Garden Fannin Brewing: 3758 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. www.fanninbrewingcompany.com or 706.258.2762 Weekends Cartecay Vineyards Cartecay Vineyards, 5704 Clear Creek Road, Ellijay, GA 30535. Call 706. 698. 9463 (WINE) or visit www.cartecayvineyards.com Weekends Chateau Meichtry Vineyards Chateau Meichtry, 1862 Orchard Lane, Talking Rock, GA 30175. Info: (706) 5021608 or www. chateaumeichtry.com. 4/7 Ray Fuller and the Blues Rockers Blue Ridge, GA. Ray Fuller’s focuses on bringing his unique “Rockin’ Slide Guitar Blues” to Blues Festivals and Blues venues throughout the US. He has appeared in Blue Ridge in the past at the Blue Ridge Blues and Bbq Festival. 7:30pm. Blue Ridge Community Theater, 2591 East 1st St., Blue Ridge, GA 30513. (706) 632-9223 or www.blueridgecommunitytheater.com 4/14 The Many Moods of Music Ellijay, GA. The Community Chorus Concert. 7pm. $10. Ellijay Elementary School, 32 McCutchen St, Ellijay, GA 30540. Info: www.gilmerarts.com or 706-635-5605. APRIL/MAY 2018

4/21 Jim Witter Ellijay, GA. The return of Canadian CMA award winner Jim Witter and band with his amazing revue of Lennon and McCartney called the “Long and Winding Road”. Full band, and video production. The Long and Winding Road” is not an impersonation Witter stressed. “It honors the music and the songwriting.” Ellijay Elementary School, 32 McCutchen St, Ellijay, GA 30540. Info: www.gilmerarts.com or 706-635-5605. 4/27 Jeremy Camp, The Answer Tour Hiawassee, GA. 7 pm. $20- $75. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Road, P.O. Box 444 Hiawassee, GA 30546. Tickets & Info: www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com or 706-896-4191. 4/28 Montgomery/Gentry with Full Band Hiawassee, GA. 7 pm. $30- $40. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Road, P.O. Box 444 Hiawassee, GA 30546. Tickets & Info: www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com or 706-896-4191. 5/5 Fred Johnson Blue Ridge, GA. Fred Johnson is an accomplished writer, vocalist and percussionist and is recognized internationally as one of the world’s greatest vocal jazz improvisers and has been honored as one of the worlds most passionate and versed chanters of sacred text. 7:30pm. Blue Ridge Community Theater, 2591 East 1st St., Blue Ridge, GA 30513. (706) 632-9223 or www.blueridgecommunitytheater.com

5/19 Big Chicken Chorus Ellijay, GA. Barbershop Chorus. 7:30 pm. George Link, Jr. Gilmer Arts Playhouse, 135 Dalton St., Ellijay, GA 30540. For tickets and info: 706-635-5605 or www.gilmerarts.com 5/26 Megan Fowler Ellijay, GA. 3-Time Georgia Female Country Artist of the Year. George Link, Jr. Gilmer Arts Playhouse, 135 Dalton St., Ellijay, GA 30540. For tickets and info: 706-6355605 or www.gilmerarts. com 5/26 Jay and the Americans, The Classics IV, The Tams Hiawassee, GA. 7 pm. $35- $45. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, 1311 Music Hall Road, P.O. Box 444 Hiawassee, GA 30546. Tickets & Info: www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com or 706-896-4191.

THEATER 4/5 – 4/15 The Foreigner Ellijay, GA. The scene is a fishing lodge in rural Georgia often visited by “Froggy” LeSeuer, a British demolition expert. “Froggy” has brought along a friend, a shy young man named Charlie who is overcome with fear at the thought of making conversation with strangers. So “Froggy,” tells all assembled that Charlie is from an exotic foreign country and speaks no English. The fun really begins, as Charlie overhears more than he should. Evenings at 7:30pm, Sundays at 2pm. George Link, Jr. Gilmer Arts Playhouse, 135 Dalton St., Ellijay, GA 30540. For tickets and info: 706-635-5605 or www.gilmerarts.com 4/6 – 4/22 Death By Design Jasper, GA. A funny tribute to the classic, witty English murder mystery. A playwright, his wife and numerous unexpected guests arrive at a country house.

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When one of the guests is murdered, the feisty Irish maid with a macabre interest in homicide, to solve the crime. Evenings 7:30, Sundays 2:00. Tater Patch Players, 95 Philadelphia Lane, Jasper, GA 30143. Tickets and info: www. taterpatchplayers.org or 706-253-2800 4/12 – 4/29 The Boys Next Door Blue Ridge, GA. Set in a communal residence in a New England city, where four mentally handicapped men live under the supervision of an earnest, but increasingly burned out young social worker named Jack. Little things sometimes become momentous (and often very funny), moments of great poignancy when, with touching effectiveness, we are reminded that the handicapped, like the rest of us, want only to love and laugh and find some meaning in life. 5/4 - 5/13 Steel Magnolias Ellijay, GA. Gilmer Arts Theatre Company – A Community Theatre production. A young beautician, newly arrived in a small Louisiana town, finds work at the local salon, where a small group of women share a close bond of friendship, and welcome her into the fold. Evenings at 7:30pm, Sundays at 2pm. George Link, Jr. Gilmer Arts Playhouse, 135 Dalton St., Ellijay, GA 30540. For tickets and info: 706-635-5605 or www.gilmerarts.com 5/17 – 6/3 The Murder Room Blue Ridge, GA. Two days after their wedding Edgar discovers that Mavis “ a nasty piece of work “ is being unfaithful. After her first attempt to kill him by poisoning his cocoa when the cat dies instead, Mavis resorts to shooting him and then returning to her lover. Chaos and complications reign when it transpires that the shots were blanks and that Edgar’s body has

vanished! Thursdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:00 p.m. Blue Ridge Community Theater, 2591 East 1st St., Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Info: www.blueridgecommunitytheater.com or 706-6329223

WINE & BEER TASTINGS OPEN EVERY DAY Bear Claw Vineyards Blue Ridge, GA. Life is busy, and there isn’t always time to slow down and reconnect with the people that you care about. At the vineyard, time moves slower, relationships connect better, and many smiles are shared. Sunday - Thursday 12-6pm, Friday & Saturday 12-8pm. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. 2281 Tennis Court Rd., Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Visit bearclawvineyards.com. Open Every Day Engelheim Vineyards Engelheim Vineyards 127 Lakeview Road, Ellijay, GA 30540. Call 706-635-WINE (9463) or visit www.engelheim. com. Ongoing Cartecay Vineyards Wine Tastings on the Chimney Patio or the Nealey Barn Loft. Cartecay Vineyards, 5704 Clear Creek Road, Ellijay, GA 30535. Call 706. 698. 9463 (WINE) or visit www.cartecayvineyards. com Ongoing Wed - Sat Blue Ridge Brewery 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 Thurs - Sun Fannin Brewing Company 3758 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. 706.258.2762 or www.fanninbrewingcompany. com Ongoing Thurs - Sat Grumpy Old Men Brewing Dog & kid friendly. 1315 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA. 770-331-8870/404-966-2665, grumpyoldmenbrewing.com

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Ongoing Mon- Sun Valley River Brewery & Eatery Located in Historic Downtown Murphy, NC at 71 Tennessee Street. 828-837-BEER or www. valleyriverbrewery.com Open Daily Chateau Meichtry Chateau Meichtry, 1862 Orchard Lane, Talking Rock, GA 30175. Info: (706) 502-1608 or www. chateaumeichtry.com. Wednesdays Bistro 29’s Wine Wednesdays Murphy, NC. Wine Special: $5 off any bottle purchase or a discount of $1 off any glass of wine. Also join Wayne to sample his feature wine of the day. 4pm- 10pm. Bistro 29, 29 Tennessee St, Murphy NC 28906. For info: 828-837-9022 or visit www.mybistro29.com

Saturdays Out Of The Blue Wine Tasting Blue Ridge, GA. Drinking alcohol is just drinking. Wine is a lifestyle. Gourmet Living. We sell fine wine, cheeses, and beer along with specialty kitchen items. Wine tastings Saturdays at 1:00 pm. Out of the Blue, 647 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, 706-258-2750. Visit www. outofzbleu.com

Ongoing Thurs - Sun Reformation Brewery Tour & Tasting Hours Thurs 5:30-8pm, Fri 5:30-9pm, Sat 1-9pm, Sunday 2-4pm500 Arnold Mill Way, Woodstock, GA 30188. info@reformationbrewery.com, (678) 341-0828 or www.reformationbrewery.com Ongoing Sat & Sun Montaluce Wine Hikes ‘Wine Hikers’ are guided by our trained outdoor staff along our nature trails, to the

headwaters of the Etowah River, and through the vineyard. After the 1.8 mile hike on our outdoor trails, you’ll be taken to our beautiful upper terrace to overlook the vineyard while enjoying a ‘mixed flight’ of 5 Montaluce Estate wines. Price: $45 Per Person. Time: 10am – 1pm. To schedule your wine hike please email matthew@ montaluce.com or call 706.867.4060 today! Or visit www.montaluce.com While every attempt has been made to provide accurate event listings, we urge you to confirm the information provided before making travel plans.

Calendar Listing Deadline for the June July Issue is May 1st. Fall Festival Issue Deadline is July 1st. 706-492-5070

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

ZIP LINES! TRAIL RIDES!

Saddle: 706.408.RIDE & Soar: 706.946.1010

www.blueridgemountaintrailridesathellshollow.com | www.blueridgecanopyadventure.com

Williams Tire Co. Since 1955 – Now in Two Locations Tires • Wheels • Oil Changes • Alignments Full Service Maintenance • Certified Mechanic

Visit Our r o Website Fl Specia Offers!

williamstireco.com 44

Williams Tire 5140 Appalachian Hwy. Blue Ridge, GA 30513

706. 946. 2322

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Ellijay Tire 583 Maddox Drive Ellijay, GA 30540

706. 635. 2322

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AC LIVING SHOP LOCAL NOW OPEN! Call for an appointment!

VACATION RENTALS BLUE RIDGE & ELLIJAY WHITEWATER RIVER & TROUT STREAM LAKE & MOUNTAIN VIEWS HOT TUBS ACCEPTING NEW CABINS CONTACT JOY 706. 635. 3952 / 404. 791. 4388 stressbuster@ellijay.com www.stressbustercabinrentals.com

ELITEEUOROPEAN.NET 455 E. CHURCH ST. JASPER, GA 30143 SERVICE & REPAIR FOR EUROPEAN LUXURY VEHICLES

Ashley Waller, Owner • 706-692-0004

Suzie Q’s Boutique LOTSA MEMORIES Antiques & More Affordable Antiques • Vintage Items Folk Art • Glassware Unique Cookbooks and More!

Retail Clothing • Soft Cotton Turbans Eye Pillows • Soaps & Bath Bombs Jewelry & Candles • Driftwood Art & Crafts

706.253.8552

Don’t Miss Us!

Mon – Sat 10 to 5pm • Wed 10 to 1pm 259 N. Main Street Suite D • Jasper, GA 30143 www.facebook.com/SuzieQs-Boutique

CONSIGNING WOMEN Gently Pre-loved ClothinG at a FraCtion oF the oriGinal PriCe

706. 253. 6905 29-B Cove road • JasPer

SHOP SHOP SHOP SHOP SHOP SHOP

SMALL! LOCAL! SMALL! LOCAL! SMALL! LOCAL!

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EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT TROUT FISHING IN OUR LOCAL RIVERS & STREAMS

Tuesday-Saturday 11am to 5pm 41 Tennessee Ave. Murphy, NC (across from Henn Theater)

Please support our local markets, communities and our advertisers! Let them know you saw their ad in Appalachian A River Runs Country Living Through It Magazine. APRIL/MAY 2018

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AC LIVING HISTORY

history of indian georgia

– the trail where they cried

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

Cherokee Rose: A Symbol of Pain and Suffering

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

The next morning the old men told the women to look back for the sign from the Great One. They watched as a blossom formed, so beautiful they forgot to weep and they felt beautiful and strong. They saw many white blossoms as far as they could see. The women began to think about their strength given them to bring up their children as the new Cherokee Nation. This symbol exists for the pain and suffering of the “Trail Where They Cried” in the Cherokee language is known as nu na hi du na tlo hi lu i. The Cherokee Rose continues to grow along the routes of the Trail of Tears all the way into eastern Oklahoma today.

Cherokee Rose Rosacea laevigata Michx.

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

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hedges because of its quickness of growth, facility of culture, strength, durability, and beauty. At the urging of the Federation of Women’s Clubs, the Cherokee Rose became Georgia’s state flower on August 18, 1916. The General Assembly adopted Joint Resolution number 42 stating that Georgia had selected the Cherokee Rose because many states had official state flowers that were “indigenous to the soil of the State. The resolution referred to the Cherokees as “aborigines” in the text of the document that makes the camellia rose the Georgia floral emblem. It also made the mistake of stating that the Cherokee rose was an indigenous plant that grew in every county.. ACLM Visit the Gilmer County Historical Society Historic Tabor House & Civil War Museum 138 Spring Street, Ellijay, Georgia 30540 706. 276. 1861. Open Thursday–Saturday 10am to 2pm www.gilmercountyhistoricalsociety.org/ 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

APRIL/MAY 2018