Appalachian Country Living Magazine December 2017-January 2018 by Appalachian Country Living Magazine

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

HOLIDAY MAGIC WITH MOUNTAIN TOP CABIN RENTALS

FIND THAT SPECIAL HOMETOWN GIFT AT ACE HARDWARE IN ELLIJAY DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

HOLIDAY RECIPES FROM OUR FRIENDS AT THE BLUE RIDGE BREWERY APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

STOCK UP FOR YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY AT CHESTERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PROVISIONS WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

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DISCOVER THE NEW NOR T H G E OR G I A MO U N TA I N S a t C o v e r e d B r i d g e E s t a t e s i n E l l i j a y, G A . A peaceful mountain community less than a hour north of Atlanta!

$2,500 toward your Design Selections if you use our Preferred Builder and purchase before November 5th 2017

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.

“You Marry the Girl– We’ll Furnish the Home!”

Community Features · Sales office open daily

· Gated entrance w/cameras

· Homes starting in mid 200's

· Homesites starting in mid 30's

· Several home plans to choose from 1700 - 2500 sq. ft. of living area

· Incredibly low HOA fees · 1 to 3-acre build-able homesites

Contact Kylie Jackson at 706-669-4177 or kylie@estatesatcoveredbridge.com Or Visit www.estatesatcoveredbridge.com • 481 Bridge Road, Ellijay, GA 30540

QUICK NEW MOVE-IN FEATURE HOMES HOMES

A AV

01 8

Use Brown Haven Design Center Open Daily “The Esteemed and Preferred Builder for Covered Bridge Estates” or Bring Your Own Builder

· Professionally planned community

LE SPRI N G

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

$100 OFF

PURCHASE OF $899 OR MORE Limit 1 per household, per order, per 30 day period. Must Present Ad. Not valid with any other offers. Exclusions apply. See store for details. Offer expires 1/31/18 APPLIVQ4

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

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 LIVING MAGAZINE AWARD WINNING

PUBLISHER | EDITOR IN CHIEF Alice Sexton GARDEN| LANDSCAPE EDITOR Kevin Johnson | growitgreen@etcmail.com

Information and Tickets Available at Gilmer Arts • 207 Dalton Street, Ellijay, GA 706.635.5605 gilmerarts.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

Fronting over 4,000 feet of the Toccoa River and located five miles from charming downtown Blue Ridge,Old Toccoa Farm offers exceptional value along with architectural controls, and lifestyle amenities. Semi-private golf - a family par-3 course - walking trails - gathering areas – fly fishing – kayaking – and more!

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

B.E.S.T. Performances Bringing Ellijay Sensational Talent Five Award-Winning Concert Performances

ALL INQUIRIES Appalachian Country Living 706. 492. 5070 | alice@blueridgemediagroup.com

Community Theatre Dinner Theaters Community Chorus Veterans Day Concert and Spring Concert

LAYOUT/DESIGN Alice Sexton Blue Ridge Media Group 706. 492. 5070 | alice@blueridgemediagroup.com

Visual Arts B.E.S.T. ART Series Juried and Member Artist Exhibits and Plein Air, Art in the Mountains

DISTRIBUTION Arthur Pope Publication Marketing & Distribution, Inc. 770. 807. 3043 | publicationsinc@att.net

Literary Arts Events Meet the Authors and Literary Theater

Classes and Instruction Visual Arts, Music, and Drama for Adults and Children Gift Shop Fine Art to Keep or Give Monday–Friday 10–5, Saturday Noon–5

NORTH GEORGIA’S DESTINATION FOR THE ARTS

PLEASE RECYCLE

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CALL US TODAY TO SCHEDULE A PROPERTY TOUR

706.946.4663 (Sales Office) Mon-Thur. 706.900.4006 (Gate House) Fri-Sun. BOOK YOUR TEE TIME TODAY PUBLIC PLAY WELCOME

135 DALTON STREET • ELLIJAY, GA 706.635.5626 Thank You to Our Playhouse Sponsors

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.

Homes & Homesites Mountain, River & Golf Course Views Gentle Topography Cottage & Cabin plans starting at $250,000 and Home Sites starting at $65,000. New Homes & Cottages now under construction.

Acoustic Blends Live Music with Local Musicians Free to the Public!

CONTRIBUTORS Stuart Borders, Ray Higginbotham, Square Frame Media, Christy Shull, Pat & Polina Walker, Tabetha Whitaker, Maxine & Billy Zoom

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

Blue Ridge’s Only Golf & River Community

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

ETC • Gilbert and Sheppard Group

Well Manicured Zoysia Fairways & Tees Bentgrass Greens 706-946-4653 (Golf Shop)

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Supported in part through contributions by the Georgia Department of Economic Development, the Lettie Pate Evans Foundation, and the George Link, Jr. Foundation. DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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CONTENTS

AC LIVING RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT

H M

CABIN COFFEE

MOUNTAIN TOP CABIN RENTALS

Spotlight, 7 Restaurant Shane’s Rib Shack Ellijay

DOWNTOWN BLAIRSVILLE

Fresh Roasted Coffee Everyday I-FI FREE W

Looking for a great way to cater your Holiday event? Shane’s has it covered.

This Season– ACE is The Place Celebrate the Season with Some Good Old-Fashioned Shopping

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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

Magic Memories are 12 Holiday Made with Mountain Top Cabin

44A Town Square Blairsville, GA 30512

706. 745. 0073

CabinCoffeeCompany.com Like us on FB / CabinCoffeeBlairsville

Rentals

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

Shane's Rib Shack, Ellijay

Spend a Winter Wonderland Vacation in a Luxury Cabin or Downtown Rental

18 Festive, Elegant & Lucky

Three Fantastic Recipes to Ring in the New Year from the Blue Ridge Brewery

23 Get the Party Started

AC LIVING RECIPES

Speciality Items Must Haves for Holiday Entertaining at Chester’s Provisions

26 Winter Calendar of Events

MonThurs:11am-9pm 11am-9pm Mon-Thurs Fri: Fri 11am-9:30pm 11am-10pm Sat: Sat11:30am-9:30pm 11:30-10pm Sunday - Closed Sun Closed

Festive, Elegant & Lucky We've Got it Covered for the Holidays

Peppermint Bark Cheesecake

Santa, Tree Lightings, Caroling, Kids Stuff, Concerts and Live Theater Events for the Holiday Season

What could be more festive than this seasonal cheesecake? Crust 1 9-ounce box chocolate wafer cookies 2 tablespoons sugar ½ cup butter, softened Filling 4 8-ounce boxes cream cheese, room temperature 1 cup sugar 4 large eggs 2 tablespoons heavy cream 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

WORDS & PHOTOS: POLINA WALKER

IVING WWW.ACL

ON THE COVER

MAGAZIN E.COM | DECE MBER 2017 /JANUARY 2018

HOLIDAY MAGIC WITH IN MOUNTABIN TOP CA RENTALS

SPECIAL FIND THAT GIFT AT ACE HOMETOWN IN ELLIJAY HARDWARE DECEMBER

CIPES FROM HOLIDAY REDS AT THE OUR FRIEN BREWERY BLUE RIDGE G

TRY LIVIN

APPA

COUN LACHIAN

FOR YOUR STOCK UP RTY AT HOLIDAY PA PROVISIONS 1 CHESTER’S MAGAZINE

VING WWW.ACLI

.COM

If you had to choose one place to celebrate the holiday season, where you could escape the stresses of everyday life, where would it be? Only 90 minutes from Atlanta, Blue Ridge Georgia is a magical mountain destination for spending time with family and friends. Let Mountain Top Cabin Rentals share their experience in making your season memorable. Photo by Square Frame Media Exclusively for Mountain Top Cabin Rentals.

ARY 2018 2017/JANU

Topping ¼ cup heavy cream 1 cup white chocolate chips ½ cup sour cream 1/3 cup hard red-and-white peppermint candy, crushed 1 Peppermint Bark Chocolate for decoration (optional) For the Crust Wrap outside of a 9-inch diameter spring-form pan with aluminum foil. Finely grind cookies with sugar in a processor; add butter, process to blend. Press mixture onto bottom and up sides of prepared pan.

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

HOURS

Once again the industrious and innovative Crew at the Blue Ridge Brewery nails it for the season. Here they've shared a delicious and decorative Holiday cheesecake, a perfect finish to any festive dinner, or a delightful surprise for those open house party guests. New Year's Eve wouldn't be complete without Oysters Bienville. Serve this elegant and beautiful dish as an appetizer or on your buffet table. Bring luck and prosperity to all on New Year's day with this simple, traditional black-eyed pea soup.

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

• PIZZA • SUBS • STEAK • SEAFOOD • DESSERT • FULL BAR

Like us on Facebook!

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

Georgia Bar-B-Q

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

www.poolesbarbq.com

Dine on the River

For the topping Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan. Remove from heat, add white chocolate chips and let stand for a minute. Whisk chocolate until smooth, add sour cream and whisk to combine. Stir in crushed candy. Pour topping over the cooled cheesecake, carefully spreading the mixture over the top. Refrigerate uncovered for about 1 hour, then cover and chill over night. Run a sharp knife around pan sides to loosen cake; release pan sides. Garnish top edges with chopped Peppermint Bark Chocolate (optional).

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Breakfast & Lunch Served All Day! Open Seven Days a Week 8am - 2pm

Buzz in Daily for our...

Lunch

Specials

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

706.946.2337

5850 Appalachian Hwy / Rt.515 Blue Ridge, GA 30513 Diagonally Across from Ingles

www. bumblebeescafeblueridge.com

COL. POOLE’S

706.632.7891

8055 Aska Road Blue Ridge, GA 30513

It's all in the secret sauce! Handed down over generations, Shane's BBQ sauce is the stuff of legends. Shane’s Rib Shack has been open in East Ellijay coming up on eight years. During that time many loyal customers have sampled the mouth watering ribs, heaping Big Dad barbeque sandwich and wonderful sides and desserts. New at Shane's is their Go Gluten Free menu! Just ask when you come in or check out the menu on their web site. Another newer item is Shane’s delicious wraps, great for a lighter lunch or even better for grabbing a bite on the go. What many people don’t know is that Shane’s also has the best chicken around. The chicken tenders are huge and can be ordered tossed in one of the signature sauces or simply plain. The chicken tenders come fried or grilled. But, both are tender and juicy. If you like wings, Shane’s also serves some of the best in town. Owner, Steve Stone, would like to say thanks to his loyal customers for making the last eight years a success by saying, "If you haven't been to Shane’s, please come try us, I know you'll like us!" For those that want to party, Shane’s Caters, and this includes their gluten free menu too! Call 706-635-7427 to set up your next event. There is no group too big or too small! Just off of 515, in front of Lowe’s in Ellijay, stop in and say hello to the friendly staff, try some tender barbecue and leave happy. As the restaurant menu says, “It’s gonna get messy!” ACLM For more information and to view the complete menu visit www.shanesribshack.com/ellijay/ or call 706. 635. 7427

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DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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Celebrate the Season with Old-Fashioned Holiday Shopping at ACE Hardware of Ellijay, GA The holidays are a special time of year, especially in the quaint towns that dot the landscape of North Georgia, where friends and family travel from far and wide to enjoy each other’s company inside cozy cabins and around crackling fire pits. Like other mountain towns, Ellijay, Georgia is a fantastic place to enjoy festive holiday parades, tree trimming get-togethers and impromptu Christmas carol parties. It is also one of the best places to get out and celebrate the holiday spirit of shopping! There are plenty of shopping options in this beautiful part of the world, but none quite like Ace Hardware of Ellijay, which has a long history of being one of the most popular and cherished businesses in town. Ace of Ellijay’s story starts in 1968, when current owners Mack and Dorothy Logan seized the opportunity to open their first hardware store in Downtown Ellijay, Georgia. Mack’s goal was to continue the tradition of having a hardware store in the middle of town. Often considered a place for hardworking men and women to gather and drink their morning coffee, the Logan’s hardware store became a staple of the community. Sadly, tragedy struck the Logan’s business Top Left: Owners Mack and Dorothy Logan have built a one-stop community shop for just about anything that you might need this Holiday season. 8

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

in 1986, when a fire broke out in the store, causing it to burn to the ground. Once the store was rebuilt, Mack decided to take a break from the hardware business in order to pursue other interests. That is, until 1996, when he once again bought his former hardware store and rebranded as Ace Hardware of Ellijay, which had recently moved to its current location at 305 South Main Street. Since that time, Mack took the initiative to expand Ace Hardware of Ellijay bit by bit, adding a furniture department, a clothing department, a Garden Center and even a special area of the store dedicated to lumber and building supplies. Mack took what began as a small hardware store with limited goods and turned it into a one-stop shop for just about any need that the community had. Today, Ace Hardware of Ellijay employs more than 20 workers, some of whom have been working at the store for decades. You can often find them gathered together in the mornings, eating breakfast and communing with one another, much like their predecessors did in 1968. While modern-day Ace of Ellijay has grown over the years, one thing has never changed: its dedication to the community and popularity as a family-owned, old-fashioned hardware store. It also remains a sought-after destination for Christmas shoppers looking for a huge selection of gifts and goods (including the kitchen sink, WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

New Southern Cuisine Full Bar | Patio Dining | Live Music

Tues-Fri 4-10 | Sat 11:30-10 | Sun 12:30-5

588 East Main Street | Blue Ridge, Georgia

706. 946. 5200 treoblueridge.com

Featuring Unique Specialty Food & Beverage Products and Gifts Craft Beer and Cocktail Headquarters

OPEN DAILY 11AM SUNDAY 12PM

706. 258. 4907

733 EAST MAIN STREET, BLUE RIDGE, GA 30513

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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should you need one). There is something for everyone at Ace of Ellijay during the holidays, from Monster Moto Mini Bikes and Go-Karts for the kids to name brand appliances, stunning bathroom vanities and DIY items for adults. Have family members in need of some cold weather clothing? Ace carries a large selection of Carhartt and Wrangler clothes that are perfect for winter time, as well as a huge inventory of boots from Durango, Georgia Boots and more. You can even find a Christmas gift for the fourlegged members of your family. Pets are welcome inside! You know your local hardware store is special when they have a direct line to Santa Claus himself, who makes special appearances each ACE remains a sought-after destination for Christmas shoppers looking for a huge selection of gifts and goods– including the kitchen sink, should you need one! DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

year over the holidays to meet with well-behaved children, who love to talk with him about their Christmas wish lists. Santa loves eeing all of the John Deere toys around the Christmas Tree. Don’t forget to ask about Ace of Ellijay’s incredible holiday deals, including doorbuster items at an extremely discounted price and special sales on Craftsman Tools, Weber products, Yeti tumblers and Trager Wood Fired Grills. You can also check out ACE’s Facebook page for Flash Sales and Giveaways #EllijayAce With 44,000 square feet of merchandise to browse, you may want to pack a lunch, or just grab a handful of freshly-made popcorn available on Saturdays. Gather the kids, meet up with your loved ones and spend the day at Ace of Ellijay this holiday season - you’ll be glad that you did! ACLM

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

For more information: ACE Hardware and Furniture of Ellijay 305 South Main Street Ellijay, GA 30540 706. 635. 2236 https://www.facebook.com/EllijayAce/ Hours: Monday through Friday: 7am-6pm Saturday: 7am-5pm, Sunday: Closed Services: Gift Cards, Key Cutting, In-Store Lock Servicing, Glass and Screen Repair, Propane, Acrylic Sheet Cutting, Paint Color Matching, Pipe Cutting & Threading, Small Engine Repair, Equipment Rental, and Local Delivery WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

Holiday Magicwith

MOUNTAIN TOP CABIN RENTALS If you had to choose one place to celebrate the holiday season, where you could escape the stresses of everyday life and focus on spending time friends and family, where would it be? For many people, the first answer that comes to mind is the Blue Ridge Mountains, in the charming north Georgia city of Blue Ridge. Only a 90-mile drive from Atlanta, GA, Blue Ridge is an easily accessible getaway destination from close by cities Chattanooga, and Asheville. Surrounded by 106,000 acres of the pristine Chattahoochee National Forest, Blue Ridge is a special kind of town where smiles are abundant and peace is prevalent; where locals and visitors alike explore hiking trails

WORDS : RAY HIGGINBOTHAM & MOUNTAIN TOP CABIN RENTALS PHOTOS: SQUARE FRAME MEDIA EXCLUSIVELY FOR MOUNTAIN TOP CABIN RENTALS

and marvel at magnificent waterfalls. 12

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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A trip to north Georgia is great any time of year, but during the holidays, Blue Ridge transforms into a winter wonderland where friends and family gather inside a cozy cabin, cuddled up around the fire with a cup of hot cocoa, as Christmas gifts are passed around and memories are made. It ‘s here that the magic of the season can truly be found. There are many different cabin rental companies in Blue Ridge to choose from, but one stands above the rest: Mountain Top Cabin Rentals. For over 14 years, Mountain Top Cabin Rentals has been a premiere luxury cabin rental provider in Blue Ridge. In addition to cabins, Mountain Top Cabin Rentals also offers several properties in the heart of Downtown Blue Ridge for those wishing to be in the middle of the charming historic downtown. Mountain Top lists about 65 luxury hand selected cabins for rent. Some cabins are even close to each other, for large groups looking to stay together within walking distance. They offer water frontage cabins, Mountain View cabins and wooded setting cabins. Some cabins are pet friendly, for those wishing to bring their furry family members along. Owners Mark Burger and Tabetha Whitaker have been operating Mountain Top Cabin Rentals since the company opened in 2003. “ We have a great team, all of us work hard and support each other. Hospitality, customer service, and Blue Ridge tourism have always been our team’s passion. We strive to offer the best possible rentals and service. Our priority is that each guest has a wonderful Blue Ridge experience,” says Whitaker. While reading reviews and articles across the web and magazines, it’s easy 14

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to note that top rated customer service is just one of the many things that keep customers coming back. As of 2017, Trip Advisor has recognized Mountain Top Cabin Rentals with the “Certificate of Excellence” award for several years running. The cabins are all located in Fannin County and are generally only a 10– 20 minute drive from Downtown Blue Ridge. Whitaker says they limit the number of properties they manage to maintain the quality of their inventory and uniqueness of each rental and that they are more concerned with quality versus quantity, making sure that all properties reflect their brand image. The team members at MTCR understand the importance of area

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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knowledge and know the area well as they are all natives of the Blue Ridge area. Each agent is ready to assist in making a reservation or suggesting local hiking trails to waterfalls, the great restaurant or a local favorite for Top Left: Cozy fireplaces make romantic evenings even better. Pictured here, Shooting Star Lodge. Bottom Left: Water frontage can be enjoyed all year round. Pictured here, Awesome Creek. Top Right: Game rooms never fail to make winter days and nights more memorable. Pictured here, Away at Last Bottom Right: Hot tubs can be enjoyed all year-round. Pictured here, All About the View. DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

breakfast. All of the office team members are friendly, professional, and have local insider knowledge plus the insight on all of the tourist must do’s while visiting.” During the holidays, Mountain Top’s luxury cabin rentals reflect the cheer and jubilation of the season, as most of the properties are carefully decorated for Christmas, adding to their already impressive ambiance. Christmas is a huge holiday in Blue Ridge and the staff at Mountain Top Cabin Rentals loves for guests to experience the charm and nostalgia of a mountain Christmas. The team can make reservations for you with the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway and Blue Ridge Community Theater, saving guests at least 10% off regular ticket prices. During the holiday season kids will enjoy the Santa’s Express Train with Santa onboard and for the adults there’s the New Year’s Eve Train. For the holidays there’s always a Christmas tree in the office with presents under the tree so any child that comes in during the whole month of December gets a gift and a treat bag. Even visiting dogs get a treat! With the personal care and attention to detail given to each reservation, you’ll enjoy the perfect Christmas vacation in the mountains. If you’re looking to add a little something special to your stay, the team suggests one of their gift baskets. Multiple gift baskets are offered, including ones designed for a romantic getaway with champagne, strawberries, whipped cream, and candles. Other baskets vary in themes, like the “Ultimate Snack Basket” great for game day football gatherings and the “Gourmet Fudge & Wine Basket”, which boasts delicious homemade, award-winning fudge from Three Sisters Fudge, a well-known shop in

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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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

Quality Resale & Consignment

706.253.1418 Monday thru Friday 10-5 & Saturday 10-4 14 Mark WhitField Street JaSper, Ga 30143 Facebook “f ” Logo

© 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

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Top: The more windows, the better! Great rooms are where families gather. Pictured here, Away at Last. Right: What a view of Lake Blue Ridge from just above Belle of Blue Ridge. Downtown Blue Ridge. You can also order baskets for breakfast and dinner, if you chose. An additional service that can be added to make your experience perfect are in-cabin massages by Teatrees Boutique Spa. These services are popular for romantic trips or a girl’s weekend getaway. Downtown Blue Ridge has many fantastic restaurants with an array of cuisines and atmospheres. Boutiques and a wide variety of shopping experiences await in Downtown Blue Ridge. Stay in Downtown and be within walking distance to the attractions with rates starting at just $99 per night. MTCR has four individual rental suites (224 West Main Suites) and one newly updated cottage (Bungalow ’46) as part of their Downtown Lodging line up. All properties available for rental are listed on the company’s website. You can reserve online anytime or get instant quote via their site. Agents are available during business hours for any assistance or reservations over the phone. You’ll fall in love with this charming mountain town, its friendly people, adventurous attractions, wonderful eateries, and beautiful scenery. Mountain Top Cabin Rentals, offers a wide selection of luxury holiday cabin rentals and all of the resources to help you plan your vacation. Visit once and you’ll see why so many come back year after year. ACLM

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Mountain Top Cabin Rentals 2016 Certificate of Excellence Award Winner Luxury Cabin Rentals & Downtown Lodging 44 Boardtown Road, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513 866. 402. 2246 www.MountainTopCabinRentals.com

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AC LIVING RECIPES Once again the industrious and innovative Crew at the Blue Ridge Brewery nails it for the season. Here they've shared a delicious and decorative Holiday cheesecake, a perfect finish to any festive dinner, or a delightful surprise for those open house party guests. New Year's Eve wouldn't be complete without Oysters Bienville. Serve this elegant and beautiful dish as an appetizer or on your buffet table. Bring luck and prosperity to all on New Year's day with this simple, traditional black-eyed pea soup.

Festive, Elegant & Lucky We've Got it Covered for the Holidays

Peppermint Bark Cheesecake

WORDS & PHOTOS: POLINA WALKER

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

For the Cheesecake Preheat oven to 350°F. Beat cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth. Add sugar and beat until well blended. Add eggs 1 at a time, beating until blended after each addition. Beat in heavy cream and vanilla. Pour into prepared crust. Place spring-form pan in a large roasting pan. Add enough hot water to come 1/2 inch up the sides of the spring-form pan. Bake cheesecake until center is just set, about 50 minutes. Remove pan from water; remove the foil and cool cake in the spring-form for about 1 hour. For the topping Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan. Remove from heat, add white chocolate chips and let stand for a minute. Whisk chocolate until smooth, add sour cream and whisk to combine. Stir in crushed candy. Pour topping over the cooled cheesecake, carefully spreading the mixture over the top. Refrigerate uncovered for about 1 hour, then cover and chill over night. Run a sharp knife around pan sides to loosen cake; release pan sides. Garnish top edges with chopped Peppermint Bark Chocolate (optional).

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Oysters Bienville

Spoon the mushroom mixture over each oyster, top with breadcrumbs and cheese. Bake until the breadcrumbs are toasted.

2 tablespoons butter, separated ½ cup shallots, finely chopped ½ cup shitake mushrooms, chopped 2 tablespoons flour ¾ cup chicken stock 1 egg yolk 1/3 cup white wine ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese Salt and cayenne pepper to taste 2 dozen oysters on the half shell

Black-Eyed Pea Soup with Ham & Collard Greens

Nothing brings elegance to the table like this special dish.

“Rudolph” by Cornbread

Happy Holidays!!! Closed on December 24th

February 17, 2018 Noon - 4:00pm 20

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APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

Preheat oven to 400° F. Sauté the chopped shallots in 1 tablespoon butter until edges begin to turn gold, add mushrooms and cook until all liquid is evaporated. Add the rest of the butter, let it melt; sprinkle flour over onions and mushrooms. Cook stirring for about a minute. Add chicken stock, stirring to combine. Whisk egg yolk with wine, add to the mixture; season with salt and cayenne, and cook for 5 more minutes over low heat. Crinkle aluminum foil; place in on the bottom of a cookie sheet. Position oysters on top of the foil, using the foil to prevent the filling from spilling out. DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

This simple soup is will bring you luck and prosperity in the New Year. 2 tablespoons butter 4 strips of bacon 1 onion, chopped 1 tablespoon minced garlic 1 teaspoon Italian Herb 1 tablespoon cider vinegar 2 tablespoons flour 3 cups chicken broth 8 ounce cooked ham, cubed 1/2 pound collard greens 3 cups water 2 cups frozen black-eyed peas Salt and pepper to taste In a medium pot bring 3 cups of water to boil, add frozen peas and cook for about 35 minutes or until tender. In a heavy bottom pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add bacon to pot and crisp on both sides about 8 minutes. Remove bacon to a paper towel. Sauté onion, garlic and ham in bacon

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

drippings over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until onion is pale golden. Add cider vinegar and cook, scraping the caramelized bits from the bottom and sides of the pot, for about a minute. Add flour to the pot and cook for another minute, stirring constantly. Add chicken stock and Italian Herb; bring to boil, lower the heat to low. While onion mixture is cooking, discard stems and center ribs from collards and coarsely chop leaves. Add collards, to onion mixture and simmer until collards are tender, about 20 minutes. Mash half of cooked peas, stir mashed and whole peas with cooking liquid into soup and simmer for 5 more minutes. Season soup with salt and pepper and serve topped with bacon bits. ACLM

Blue Ridge Brewery 187 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706. 632. 6611 Open Wednesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner. Please visit the web site for details: www.blueridgebrewery.com WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

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Chester’s Provisions: Bringing Time-Honored Family Business Goodness to Blue Ridge. When John and Lena Brunnenmeyer opened their small town saloon in Washington, IL in 1896, they had no way of knowing the impact they would have on their descendants. Their saloon operated until the town went “dry” in 1906, after which the sale of alcohol was banned. The enterprising couple then converted the saloon into a grocery store and their son, Chester, delivered groceries for them. Chester eventually inherited the building in 1944. He turned it back into a saloon, called The Spot, which he ran for nearly a decade. Many years later, Chester’s grandson and his wife decided to revive a piece of family history and open Chester Brunnenemeyer’s Bar and Grill, in Blue Ridge, GA. Stuart Arp, whose grandfather is the namesake at Chester’s, and his wife, Stacy Heath, opened Chester Brunnenmeyer’s Bar and Grill in 2015. Just a year earlier, Mike and Sherry Triebert bought and restored the Gartrell Building, the brick structure on East Main Street in Downtown Blue Ridge that was once a bustling hotel. Like so many properties in Blue Ridge, the Gartrell Building has been lovingly restored to its former glory, with many original details carefully preserved even as the overall appearance and functionality were given a chic, modern flair. The Gartrell Building’s modernity is apparent in its other tenant, Gartrell Gallery, a fine art gallery DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

that offers workshops and classes as well as art for sale. New to the Gartrell Building is Stuart Arp’s latest endeavor, Chester’s Provisions. The Blue Ridge area is known for its natural beauty, charming streets and architecture, scenic railway, art festivals, live entertainment, historic significance, and sophisticated food scene. While Chester Brunnenmeyer’s Bar and Grill– a restaurant that offers such traditional fare as Southern pecan pie, shrimp and grits, fire roasted pimento cheese (widely considered to be “the

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

caviar of the South”), and North Georgia trout, is a great addition to the area– Chester’s Provisions, right next door to the Bar and Grill, fills another much needed purpose. Chester’s Provisions opened this past summer bringing new and exciting food and beverage delicacies to Historic Downtown Blue Ridge. Featuring unique and hard to find specialty products and gifts, Chester’s Provisions focuses on mountain home entertaining. You’ll find everything you need to host a party that will offer your guests items not found at other local grocery stores. Chester’s Provisions has a wide range of wines and offers an extensive Craft Beer selection. In addition you’ll find craft cocktail ingredients and everything else you would need to stock your mountain home bar. Offering regionally made products from gourmet cheeses and barbecue sauces to snack items– and all the necessities to entertain– there’s always something here you didn’t know WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

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706. 253. 7737

CMYK / .ai

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CMYK / .ai

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

706.889.8343

www.psu24-7.com

www.porchlife365.com

Rustic American Bar & Grill Regional & Seasonal Fare

Blue Ridge Coin Shop and Collectibles

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

Daisy Boutique 35 South Main St. Jasper, GA 30143 (706) 253-6996 daisyboutique.com

The Largest Yarn Shop in north Georgia!

THE LITTLE STORE THAT PAYS YOU MORE!

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

Exquisite Specialty Yarns of all Fiber Types in Basics to Novelty PLUS

Books • Patterns • Needles Notions • Purse Handles

1901 Appalachian Hwy Blue Ridge, GA

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

In the Dogwood Plaza

706. 632. 3127

706. 258. 4907

733 EAST MAIN STREET, BLUE RIDGE, GA 30513

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www.BlueRidgeCoinShop.com

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DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

you needed. Chester’s Provisions is also one of the best places for interesting gifts, can’t decide on one item? They also offer custom-made gift baskets! From their original family business, The Spot, then a grocery store, last year to Chester Brunnemeyer’s Bar and Grill, and now coming full circle to Chester’s Provisions: bringing timehonored family business goodness to Blue Ridge.

Knit & Crochet Classes for Beginners to Advanced

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

www.stringsandstitches.com stringsandstitches@ellijay.com 449 Industrial Blvd. Suite 165 Spring Plaza • Ellijay, GA 30540 DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

Chester’s Provisions Corner of East Main and Depot Streets 733 E Main Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706. 258. 4907 chestersblueridge.com www.facebook.com/chesterbrunnenmeyers/ Hours: Monday- Saturday open at 11am Sunday open at 11:30

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Along with all of the other fantastic specialty offerings at Chester’s Provisions, you’ll always find seasonal items and gifts for everyone on your list. One of the most popular lines they offer is Mona B, (circled photos). Each bag in the Mona B Collection is an exclusive one-of-a-kind creation, made with carefully selected wedges of up-cycled and durable truck tarps and military tents sunbaked, weathered and cured from the Indian deserts and jungles. The wedges are then hand stitched and screen printed to tell a unique story with a flair of adventure. WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

INSIDE Welcome to our Calendar! 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!

ARTS First Fridays Murphy Art Walk Murphy, NC. Stroll through historic downtown Murphy for an exquisite visual, culinary, and performing arts experience. Presented by The Valley River Arts Guild 5-8 pm. Visit http:// www.valleyriverarts.com or call Tim Ford (828) 360-3038 1st & 3rd Thursdays Plein Air Painters of Hiawassee Hiawassee, GA. Meet at ArtWorks and leave at 2pm for a local scenic spot to spend a fun afternoon painting. All media welcome. Free! ArtWorks Gallery & Gifts, 232B Chatuge Way, Hiawassee, GA. Info 706-8960932 or http://www.artworksgalleryga.com 10/7 – 01/06 4th Quarter Artist in Residence- Rae Breed Blue Ridge, GA. Opening reception 10/7, 5-7pm. Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, 420 Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA. Visit www.blueridgearts.net or call 706-632-2144. 11/7 – 12/16 Cherokee Arts Center Holiday Show & Sale Canton, GA. This show has all the gifts you need! All crafts & artwork will be $100 and under! Tues - Fri 11AM to 5PM and Saturday 12PM to 5PM. Cherokee Arts Center 94 North St., Canton, GA 30114. Info: 770.704.6244 or www.cherokeearts.org

11/10 thru 12/14 B.E.S.T. Visual Art Series – The Photography of Lance Lewin Ellijay, GA. Visualization: The Art of Seeing. Lance A. Lewin skills and visual perspectives come from a richly filled combination of studying the pioneers of photography. Gilmer Arts, 207 Dalton Street, Ellijay, GA. For info: 706-635-5605 or www. gilmerarts.com 11/10 – 12/31 Gilmer Arts- The Christmas Shop Ellijay, GA. Gilmer Arts, 207 Dalton Street, Ellijay, GA. For info: 706-635-5605 or www. gilmerarts.com 11/18 – 01/06 Holiday Show & Sale Blue Ridge, GA. Come shop for that perfect holiday gift. Jewelry, pottery, paintings, or anything in between. Gift Certificates available. Opening reception November 18, 6-9pm. Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, 420 Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA. Visit www. blueridgearts.net or call 706632-2144. 1/13 thru 2/24 “Orarius Ara” – The Artwork of Pam Beagle Daresta Blue Ridge. Enigmatic art of Pamela Beagle-Daresta inspired by the patterns and shapes of nature, mainly the seascape of southern Tybee Island, where ocean and river meet. Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, 420 Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA. Visit www. blueridgearts.net or call 706632-2144.

EVENTS 9/211/23 Blue Ridge Turkey Trot Blue Ridge, GA. Thanksgiving Day! Race is for all ages and all abilities from walkers to serious competitors. Proceeds go towards local charities. There’s also a best dressed prize so be creative! Registration begins at 7:00am and the 5K run/walk begins at 8:00am. Info: www. blueridgeturkeytrot.com

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AC LIVING CALENDAR

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

NORTH GEORGIA'S GUIDE TO AREA

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

11/23 Community Thanksgiving Open Table Blue Ridge, GA. Come share smoked turkey and all the fixings. Activities include Children’s Craft tables, Open Mic, Silent Auction and more. Everyone is welcome and event is free. Donations in excess of event costs support Good Sam’s benevolent ministry to help y/ our Fannin County neighbors in need. Noon to 4pm. Fannin County High School cafeteria. Good Samaritans of Fannin County 706-455-3818 or 706-374-2319 Email: ldbbq@ bellsouth.net 11/23 – 12/30 Mountain Country Christmas in Lights Hiawassee, GA. Enjoy Caroling, Arts & Crafts, Food and Entertainment throughout the event at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds in Hiawassee, GA. - Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 6 -10PM. $5. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds 1311 Music Hall Road Hiawassee, GA 30546. For info: 706-896-4191 or www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com 11/24 Light Up Ellijay- Return to Whoville Historic Downtown Ellijay. Return to Whoville and stop the Grinch from stealing Christmas! Live music, craft vendors, and food from local restaurants on the square beginning at 4 p.m. Lighted parade ushers in Santa Claus at 6 p.m. Lighting of the tree immediately afterward. For more information visit www. gilmerchamber.com or call 706635-7400. 11/24 Light Up the Basin Copperhill/McCaysville, GA. The evening begins at the McCaysville Branch of United Community Bank, for lighting McCaysville’s official Christmas Tree. A procession of carolers parades by candlelight to the Copperhill Branch of the BB&T Bank, for another tree lighting. Next, over to Miners Park, to light Copperhill’s Yule tree. Then head back down Grande Avenue for the lighting of the wreath

of the Old Steel Bridge. After tree lightings visit with Santa at Christmas Is Here! The events start at 5:30 and last until 8:00 pm. For info: 706-964-6531 11/24 Blue Friday Blue Ridge, GA. Merchants will be offering discounts and the downtown area will be filled with live entertainment throughout the day. 11/25 Light Up Blue Ridge Blue Ridge, GA. Visit Historic Downtown Blue Ridge for the annual arrival of Santa and Lighting of the big tree. A full day of fun begins on Saturday when Santa and Mrs. Claus arrives on the train approximately 11:15 a.m. Santa will be in the park from 12:30 to 4:40 p.m. for visits with the kids. Parade will begin at 5:30 p.m. with lighting of the Great Tree at 7 p.m. For information email: pam@lgwebconsulting.com. 12/1 Murphy Hometown Christmas Celebration Murphy, NC. Tree lighting ceremony, music and entertainment. Shopping day will be Saturday, December 4th, complete with Santa strolling around town and merchants offering incentives to shoppers such as sales, snacks, etc. Friday Dec 1st, 6 – 8pm. For info call 828-837-2242 or visitww.cherokeecountychamber.com 12/1 & 12/2 Blairsville Holiday Stop & Shop Blairsville, GA. Need a special gift for a special family member or friend? Then come on out to the Blairsville Holiday Stop & Shop. There will be over 50 home-based business vendors there to cover all your shopping needs. Free. 11am- 7pm. Union County Civic Center located at 165 Wellborn Street, Blairsville GA. For info call Sharon Penner 770-789-2044. 12/1 – 12/31 Tour of Trees Blairsville, GA. Over 30 beautifully decorated trees and wreaths on display throughout

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

the Community Center. 9am5pm. Free Admission - 9AM - 3PM. Sponsored by the Union County Lions Club. Blairsville Union County Chamber of Commerce, 129 Union County Rec Rd, Blairsville, GA. 706745-5789 12/2 Night of Lights Celebration & Parade Downtown Jasper, GA. Live music, tons of vendors, and pictures with Santa Claus all starting at 4pm. The Parade of Lights begins promptly at 6pm with lots of awesome floats celebrating the Christmas spirit and the flavor of living in Pickens County. Parade theme: Candyland. Visit www. knowpickens.com or call 706692-1164. 12/2 Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Blairsville, GA. Pictures with Santa at the Historic Courthouse from 4pm-6pm. Evening Christmas Parade to start at 6pm, tree lighting & caroling following the parade. Visit www.visitblairsvillega.com or call 877-745-5789. 12/2 Christmas Luminairies Blairsville, GA. The Downtown Blairsville Square will be lit up on Saturday, December 2 when Enotah CASA hosts its annual Lighting of Christmas Luminaires event in honor of foster children in North GA. Luminaires can be bought in honor of, in memory of, in Celebration of or for a CASA child. 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM. Sponsorships also availabale. Visit http://enotahcasa.org or call Enotah CASA 706-864-0300 12/2 The Long Table – Holidazzle Ball Ground, GA. Benfitting Prevent Child Abuse Pickens. A dazzling Long Table party at The Greystone Estate will have the usual Long Table ‘wow factor’ with amazing food, spectacular venue and incredible entertainment. $150 per person. Greystone Estate: www. thegreystoneestate.com or 770735-3777. DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

12/9 Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Vogel State Park Blairsville, GA. Come enjoy hayrides, caroling, a visit from Santa Claus, bonfires, and watch as we light our 35 foot Blue Spruce. Please bring an unwrapped gift for a child up to 12 years of age to help the Union County Sheriff’s Office toy drive. Festivities begin at 4 PM. $5 parking. 706-745-2628.

sert train departs Blue Ridge at 10:00 pm on New Year’s Eve and returns approximately 12:30am on New Year’s Day. There will be wine tasting, light hors d’oeuvres and at midnight there will be sparkling wine and deserts. 21 and over. Single: $85, Couple: $160. Reservations are strongly encouraged. For tickets and info: Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad, www.brscenic. com or call 706-632-8724

12/9 & 12/23 Jasper Winter Farmers Market Jasper, GA. Homegrown produce or handmade arts & crafts. 7:30am – Noon. Pickens County Extension / Chamber Building, 500 Stegall Drive, Jasper, GA. For more information, call the Extension Office at 706-2538840

12/31 24th Annual New Year’s Eve Possum Drop Clay’s Corner in Brasstown, NC. Ring in the New Year with a Miss Possum Contest, bluegrass music, Little Brasstown Church Choir, the Blessing, cider and good clean fun. Free! 10pmuntil. Call 828-837-2242 or visit ww.cherokeecountychamber. com

12/10 Kiwanis 58th Annual Christmas Parade McCaysville, GA. A great old timey parade for almost 60 years! 2:00 pm - until Please call Howard Jabeley 706-492-3244 or visit www. greatercopperbasin.com. 12/10 Cruise for Kids Blue Ridge, GA. Georgia Mountain Classics Car Club Annual Cruise For Kids will be held on Saturday, December 2, 2017 from 1-4 p.m. at Dairy Queen in Blue Ridge. We hope you will come and support us this year with a monetary donation or a new, unwrapped toy to help families in our community have a great Xmas. Annette Long @ 706-838-4701 or Troyia Collis @ 706-632-2634. Email at georgiamountainclassics@ hotmail.com

2/24 7th Annual Bringin’ the Blues to Blue Ridge Blue Ridge, GA. Celebrate Mardis Gras with the Rollin’ Bones! Masks, Cajun Food, Great Music, Dancing, Auction, Door Prizes & More! Benefitting Snack in a Backpack. Advance tickets: $50 per person or $90 per couple. 5 to 9pm - Willow Creek Falls Vineyard. For info and tickets call 706. 851. 8190 or visit snackinabackpack.org.

KIDS OF ALL AGES

2/17 8th Annual Fire & Ice Chili Cook Off Blue Ridge, GA. Live music, ice sculptures and amazing chili! Buy a $10 Tasting Card to sample the competition and vote for the People’s Choice Award. Featuring Live Music and entertainment. An amazing display of individual and unique ice sculptures from the award winning, National Ice Carving Champion “Rock on Ice” including several ice carving demonstrations. For info call 706-258-2432 or visit bestofblueridge.biz

11/24 – 12/23 Santa Express Train RideBlue Ridge Scenic Railway Blue Ridge, GA. Featuring “Twas the Night Before Christmas”. Daytime funfilled trip with Santa. While on board your family will hear the “Twas the Night Before Christmas” Christmas story, sing Christmas Carols, visit with Christmas characters and of course with Santa. Each child receives a BRSR memento, BRSR Christmas Activity Book and a candy cane. Approximately 1-Hour Trip Time - Enclosed Climate Control ONLY. Please check the TRAIN SCHEDULE for various dates and times. Reservations are strongly encouraged. For tickets and info: Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad, www.brscenic.com or call 706-632-8724

12/31 New Years Eve Train Blue Ridge, GA. Welcome in the New Year on our New Year’s Eve Train. This wine and des-

12/9 2017 Holly Jolly Christmas Blairsville, GA. Pictures with Santa at 2-5pm! Children’s crafts, face painting, ginger-

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

bread village, Mayor’s Train, storytelling, refreshments, reindeer games, musical performances, silent auction, tour of trees. Free! Benefitting Ferst Foundation for Childhood Literacy. Union County Community Center, 129 Union County Rec Rd. Blairsville, GA. For info call 706-745-5789.

3rd Friday Every Month Live Music Acoustic Blends Listen to a Variety of Quality Music Acts … or Join the Jam! Bring your own libations 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

2/3 Annual Be Our Guest Daddy Daughter Dance Murphy, NC. This fun night will take place on Saturday from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM. The theme this year is Beauty and the Beast with some surprise guests from this beloved fairy tale! Tickets are $50 for one father and one daughter. Each additional daughter is $10. Tickets and event at The Hackney Warehouse, 11 Railroad Street Murphy, NC 28906. For info call Lydia Gray 828-837-8376. Visit www. thehackneywarehouse.com

Weekends LIve Music at Engelheim Vineyards Engelheim Vineyards 127 Lakeview Road, Ellijay, GA 30540. Call 706-635-WINE (9463) or visit www.engelheim. com.

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) 7455493 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 706-745-5493 or http://www. unioncountyhistory.org/

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) 502-1608 or www. chateaumeichtry.com. 11/25 Annual Tuba Christmas Blue Ridge. This is a national organization with chapters all over the country. Concert is free, and is part of the Light Up Blue Ridge festivities. See 30 to 40 Tuba players all decked out for Christmas play your favorite Christmas songs. Concert begins at 11:15 am. Free! www. tubachristmas.com or Keith Jones - kjonz@etcmail.com, 706-258-8329 12/1 Beach Boys Hiawassee, GA. Doors: 6:00 PM, Show: 7:00 PM. $55. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Anderson Music Hall, 1311 Music Hall Rd. Hiawassee, GA. Tickets & info: (706) 896-4191 or www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com 12/2 University of North Georgia Choral Holiday Performance. Blue Ridge. Enjoy the beautiful sounds of the North Georgia Choral Group as they present a beautiful holiday performance inside the Art Center!

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

2pm -4pm. FREE! Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, 420 Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA. Visit www.blueridgearts.net or call 706-632-2144. 12/9 B.E.S.T. Series #1 – Mountain Faith Band Ellijay, GA. Multiple Grand Ole Opry performers, Multiple Industry Award Recognitions Tour participants and Semifinalist on NBC TV’s “America’s Got Talent” (Christmas Concert Folk, Gospel, Bluegrass with a Pop Groove). 7:30 p.m. $27.99. George Link, Jr. Gilmer Arts Playhouse, 135 Dalton St Ellijay, GA 30540. Visit gilmerarts.com or call 706-635-5605. 12/15 A Classic Frank Sinatra Christmas Show Blue Ridge, GA. Starring Frank Sinatra tribute artist Gabe Russo, winner of the Frank Sinatra Idol Competition. Gabe will not disappoint anyone craving a fix of Frank’s old Christmas songs like Silent Night, The Christmas Song (chestnuts roasting on an open fire), White Christmas and others mixed in with Frank’s standards of NY, NY, I’ve Got You Under My Skin, That’s Life…and more. 7:30pm. Blue Ridge Community Theater, 2591 East 1st St., Blue Ridge, GA 30513. (706) 6329223 or www.blueridgecommunitytheater.com 12/15 John Denver Christmas Show - Rocky Mountain High Christmas Hiawassee, GA. Starring Chris Collins and Boulder Canyon with Special Guest: Beatles Music By The Return. 7:00PM. Tickets On Sale October 13. Level 1: $35.00 + Handling & Credit Card Fees. Level 2: $25.00 + Handling & Credit Card Fees. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Anderson Music Hall, 1311 Music Hall Rd. Hiawassee, GA. Tickets & info: (706) 896-4191 or www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com 12/16 Levi Lowery Ellijay, GA. Lowrey’s two-disc Roots and Branches is a majestic record. In the best of all possible worlds, it would be heard in an acoustically perfect concert hall by an audience that sits undistracted in the dark listening intently to its exquisitely sculpted lyrics, transcendent melodies and intricately woven instrumentation. Lowrey is a former member of and opening act

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AC LIVING SHOP LOCAL BLUE RIDGE COMMUNITY THEATER PRESENTS

White Christmas Based on the beloved film, this heartwarming musical adaptation features seventeen Irving Berlin songs. November 24th - December 10th Thursday - Saturday 7:30 PM Sundays at 2 PM

for the Zac Brown Band. 7:30PM. $18. George Link, Jr. Gilmer Arts Playhouse, 135 Dalton St Ellijay, GA 30540. Visit gilmerarts.com or call 706-6355605. 12/19 Caroling on the Square Blairsville, GA. Join your friends and neighbors for Old Fashioned Caroling on the Square. Free! 5:30 – 6:30pm. 3/3 Gene Watson, Johnny Lee & Ronnie McDowell Hiawassee, GA. 7:00PM. Tickets On Sale December 8. Level 1: $37.00 + Handling & Credit Card Fees. Level 2: $27.00 + Handling & Credit Card Fees. Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Anderson Music Hall, 1311 Music Hall Rd. Hiawassee, GA. Tickets & info: (706) 8964191 or www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com

NuNseNse

Sister Julia accidentally poisons 52 sisters.To raise burial money they put on a variety show. Comic surprises abound!! March 8th - March 25th Thursday - Saturday 7:30 PM Sundays at 2 PM Frank Sinatra Xmas Show! Winner of the Frank Sinatra Idol Competition.

GABE RUSSO Saturday, Dec 16th 7:30 PM Singer - Songwriter, one of Nashville’s greatest talents.

THEATER 11/24 – 12/10 White Christmas Blue Ridge, GA. Based on the beloved film, this heartwarming musical features seventeen Irving Berlin songs. Thursdays- Saturdays 7:30pm, Sundays at 2pm. For Tickets: Blue Ridge Community Theater, 2591 East 1st St., Blue Ridge, GA 30513. (706) 6329223 or www.blueridgecommunitytheater.com 11/24 – 12/10 You Can’t Take It With You Jasper, GA. The daughter of a very eccentric family, the son of a straight laced executive -- love? marriage? An incomparable comedy evening. ThursSat: 7:30pm. Sun: 2pm. Tickets $18 adults, $16 seniors, $14 students. Buy Flex Passes and save even more. Tater Patch Players 95 Philadelphia Lane in Jasper, GA. Tickets and info: www. taterpatchplayers.org or call 706-253-2800.

12/7 thru 12/17 Live Theatre – A Christmas Carol – The Musical Ellijay, GA. This play centers on one day in the life of Ebenezer Scrooge… Christmas Eve. After his confrontation with the spirits, he awakens a new man. Scrooge gives generously to the poor, and helps save Tiny Tim. Evenings at 7:30 p.m. Afternoons at 2:30 p.m. Adults $17.50 ($13.50 with member discount)Students $10. Gilmer High School, 408 Bobcat Trail, Ellijay, GA. Visit gilmerarts.com or call 706-6355605.

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 706-635WINE (9463) or visit www. engelheim.com. Ongoing Fridays Chocolatasm! Wine and chocolate pairing Friday evenings at 6pm (reservations only). Reservations required. Call Leann Martin at 706946-8463 or email your RSVP to Leannhmartin@ gmail.www.thevineofblueridge.com Ongoing Cartecay Vineyards Wine Tastings on the Chimney Patio or the Nealey Barn Loft. Cartecay Vineyards, 5704 Clear

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

ZIP LINES!

Ongoing Thurs - Sun Fannin Brewing Company 3758 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. 706.258.2762 or www. fanninbrewingcompany. com

Ongoing Tues - Sun Crane Creek Vineyards Crane Creek Vineyards, 916 Crane Creek Road, Young Harris, GA. 706.379.1236 www.cranecreekvineyards.com Daily Chateau Meichtry Chateau Meichtry, 1862 Orchard Lane, Talking Rock, GA 30175. Info: (706) 502-1608 or www. chateaumeichtry.com.

Ongoing Thurs - Sat Grumpy Old Men Brewing Dog & kid friendly. 1315 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA. 770-3318870/404-966-2665, grumpyoldmenbrewing. 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

AND MORE! FIND US ON FB: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/LIVEMUSICISBETTER

TICKET PACKAGES

29-B COVE ROAD • JASPER

706. 253. 6905 SHOP SHOP SHOP SHOP

706. 632. 9223

BUY ONLINE @ WWW.BLUERIDGECOMMUNITYTHEATER.COM APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

12/1 & 12/2 Appalachian Food and Wine Trail Blairsville, GA. Taste the flavors of the Appalachian Mountains by taking part in this Bi-Annual Wine

Tour event. Purchase your ticket for only $30 per person and receive a hearty appetizer and delicious wine from each of four participating local wineries. Paradise Hills Resort and Winery, Crane Creek Vineyards, Hightower Creek Vineyards, and Odom Springs Vineyards. Noon6pm. Paradise Hills Resort and Spa, 366 Paradise

706.253.8552

SMALL! LOCAL! SMALL! LOCAL!

DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

Road, Blairsville GA, 30512. Visit www.paradisehillsga.com. 12/21 Winter Solstice Celebration Young Harris, GA. With all our family and guests with us, we light the bonfire to chase away the longest night of the year as winter truly begins. Complimentary chili bar

and holiday sweets available to all guests. No reservations required. Wine available by the bottle or glass for purchase. 5:30 - 8pm. Crane Creek Vineyards 916 Crane Creek road Young Harris, GA 30582. Info: www. cranecreekvineyards.com or 706-379-1236.

ENJOY THE SEASON!

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

Williams Tire Co. Since 1955 – Now in Two Locations

CONSIGNING WOMEN

2591 EAST 1ST STREET • BLUE RIDGE, GA

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

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

Saddle: 706.408.RIDE & Soar: 706.946.1010

MAKE GREAT HOLIDAY GIFTS

AC LIVING CALENDAR

Suzie Q’s Boutique

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GENTLY PRE-LOVED CLOTHING AT A FRACTION OF THE ORIGINAL PRICE

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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 Mon- Sun Valley River Brewery & Eatery Located in Historic Downtown Murphy, NC at 71 Tennessee Street. 828-837-BEER or www. valleyriverbrewery.com

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

TRAIL RIDES!

GRETCHEN PETERS Saturday, Jan 6th 7:30 PM

Creek Road, Ellijay, GA 30535. Call 706. 698. 9463 (WINE) or visit www. cartecayvineyards.com

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

Visit Our r o Website Fl Specia Offers!

williamstireco.com DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

Williams Tire 5140 Appalachian Hwy. Blue Ridge, GA 30513

706. 946. 2322 APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Ellijay Tire 583 Maddox Drive Ellijay, GA 30540

706. 635. 2322 WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

AC LIVING HISTORY

history of indian georgia

– Gilmer County Census

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

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THOSE WHO CRIED

In 1820, President James Monroe offered the Cherokee Council monies for the Cherokees Indians to remove west of the Mississippi River into Indian Territory and guaranteed funds and reparations for them to live with those already removed on their own. The Cherokee Council was made up of representatives from the twelve districts of the Cherokee Nation East and later became known as the Cherokee National Council in about 1825. The council sent representatives to visit with the Old Settlers in the Indian Territory west of the Mississippi River and they returned more determined to stand their ground in the east. By this time there had been dozens of land cessions made between the United States the Cherokees. The council refused to cede any more lands and made it a major offense to do so by 1825. Monroe was uncomfortable in pursuing the issue further, however when Andrew Jackson became president, he appeared to have no reservations removing the Indians from the eastern lands. Among those living in the Gilmer area, who voted against removal treaty signers of 1835 along with then Chief John Ross, were the Sanders family of Taloney, Whitepath of Turniptown, Harry Downing of what is now the Logan Farm area, Young Turkey of Long Swamp Creek, Dick Crittenden and the Smiths of Town Creek, John Keith of Mountaintown, the Johnsons of Cartecay, Walkingstick and Rattling Gourd of Ellijay town, George Owens of Toccoa, and many others whose Indian names have long been forgotten.

The city of Ellijay appeared as a town “Elechaye” on the 1825 enumerations with Chief George Sanders (Saunders) followed by Thomas Sanders on the 1830 census records. William Hardin, an early settler, lawyer and judge, reported to the governor that the city of Ellijay had fallen in March of 1832. This probably meant that the Indians had vacated the area or had succumbed to the white rule by moving outside the city. By 1833 the township is listed as being “sparsely settled” by B. B. Quillian, deputy sheriff at that time. He stated Ralph Smith lived a block west of the current courthouse on Gilmer Street. Cherokee Harry Downing operated a gristmill on Cox Mill Creek. Later this became part of the Logan family land development north of town. The 1834 census lists 56 white families in Gilmer County with about 169 persons. The township of Ellijay became a city and the county seat on December 20, 1834, listing 600 Cherokees in residence, per Adiel Sherwood’s Gazetteer of Georgia (1791-1879) Those removed from the Gilmer County area in 1838 with American sounding names were Robert Berry, William Crittenden, Willis Hendricks, Dave Sanders, Johnson Alberty, John Nockman, Dick Pritchett, John Owans, Charles Robbins, Wesley Smith, Tom Smith, Dick Crittenden, Arley Hornet, Betsy Wolf, Jack Downing, John Keith, Charles Downing, Jim Dobbins, George Owens, Will Scott and Jay Bird to name a few (spellings listed as transcribed). Hundreds more with very Indian

WWW.ACLIVINGMAGAZINE.COM

APPALACHIAN COUNTRY LIVING

Top: Cherokee Harry Downing’s gristmill on Cox Mill Creek. Gristmill preserved in its current loacation at Stone Mountain. Above: “Those Who Cried: The 16,000.” A record of the individual Cherokees listed in the United States official census of the Cherokee Nations, by James W. Tyler, circa1835.

names like Squirrel and Terrapin Striker are also found in a listing called THOSE WHO CRIED The 16,000 by James W. Tyner available at most libraries. They are named as head of household with how many full blood males, how many mixed blood males, and how many able to read. Women are listed as weavers or spinners. At the time Gilmer county encompassed Fannin County to the Tennessee/North Carolina border and down to what is now Highway 20 in Cherokee County Georgia. ACLM Leslie Barker Thomas is a resident of Ellijay and the President of the Gilmer County Historical Society; Former President, Georgia Chapter Trail of Tears Association and Board Member of the National TRail of Tears Association.

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DECEMBER 2017/JANUARY 2018

PATIO FURNITURE & ACCESSORIES Ask about our patio furniture, accent rugs and accessories.

SCREEN ROOMS Don’t want a fully

“When history is erased, people’s moral values are also erased.” –Ma Jian Visit the Gilmer County Historical Society Historic Tabor House & Civil War Museum 138 Spring Street, Ellijay, Georgia 30540 706. 276. 1861. Open Thursday–Saturday 10am to 2pm www.gilmercountyhistoricalsociety.org/

Nearly invisible Cable Railings to enjoy the view from your deck.

Come visit our Showroom in Jasper ... 447 Harmony School Rd., Jasper, GA Showroom Hours: Wednesday-Friday 10-4 or by appt. Business: 706-301-5698 Website: www.myenclosedporch.com

enclosed porch? Outdoor Living installs screen rooms too. STOP BY OUR SHOWROOM TODAY.

Celebrate Mardi Gras at the 7th Annual

Bringin’ the Blues to Blue Ridge

Saturday February 24, 2018 5 to 9pm - Willow Creek Falls Vineyard Benefitting Snack in a Backpack Join the Mardi Gras Celebration for a Good Cause! Masks, Cajun Food, Great Music, Dancing & Auction!

Bring Your Dancin’ Shoes! Live Music by the Rollin’ Bones

Advance Tickets $50 per Person, $90 per Couple, $60 at the Door. Includes Appetizers, Dinner, Dessert & Cash Bar

For Tickets and Information

backpackfannin@gmail.com or call 706. 851. 8190