Remodeling Made Easy: Finding the Right Contractor pg. 22
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ppalachian Country Vol. 7 Issue 4 APRIL/MAY 2011
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Booming Blue Ridge
Meet Blue Ridge's New Businesses
New in Woodstock
Shop in Downtown Woodstock
Celebrating the Seasons Big Canoe's Tour of Homes
Thrill of the Hunt
Woodstock Market Opens Again
Our Little Bit of Italy Charlie's Restaurant's New Home
Old Favorites New Makeovers
Home
Coming Old Recipes Come Alive
It's not a home until you've created your porch. Check out what Lakota Cove is doing this spring!
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letter from the publisher
I don't trust Curious George. We have the books on the bookshelf, but I always hesitate to read them to my boys. It seems like a bad influence. The man with the yellow hat should not be responsible for a monkey. Every time the story begins, he'll always leave Curious George and say "Don't be too curious." My gosh. He. Is. A. Monkey. And his first name is Curious. What is he thinking? It always turns out well, of course, which is also misleading. If my child climbed in a dump truck and dumped dirt in the city pond, I'm thinking jail time is in the immediate future. The man with the yellow hat doesn't even bother to have a name. Since Curious George seems to have a penchant for getting lost, wouldn't a name be a good thing to have? I started programming my sons early on our names and phone numbers. My oldest son, Cooper, can recite my phone number anytime. My husband found out how well I taught Cooper when he took the boys out to eat one night. Apparently Cooper took a shine to the waitress. When they were leaving, she said, "Bye, boys! See you later." Cooper's eyes lit up. "That's great!" he said. "My phone number's is..." and then proceeded to give her his mother's cell number. She was a little surprised, but he wasn't done. Giving her his best grin, he winked and pointed a little chubby finger at her. "Call me!" He's four. FOUR. He's also never getting his own number until he's thirty so I can screen all the girls that call me/him. I don't know whether I'm cautious or I just like being around them, but my children usually travel with me everywhere. As you can see in the photo below, our days are sometimes long. Our photographer, Stacey Lanning, took this photo while we were waiting on her to photograph some businesses. It was a rare moment that both my son, Cash, and I were taking a nap. Usually, he's holding my hand while I talk to customers. I'm lucky that he's not wearing his Iron Man costume here. It's been two weeks and he still won't let me wash it yet. Most people don't mind that I bring a child in their store. Why would they? It could be a monkey.
Jodi Williams 4
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Appalachian Country Magazine P.O. Box 1668 Ellijay, GA 30540 706-698-5634 E-mail: acmagazine@hotmail.com Website: www.acmagazine.org
PUBLISHER
Jodi Williams
EDITORS
Sharon Fendley
Stacey Lanning
PHOTOGRAPHY
Stacey Lanning
John Crawford
LAYOUT/DESIGN
CC Designs
Julie Zagarola
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Stacey Lanning
Jodi Williams
Sharon Fendley
Betty Kossick
Jillian Daniels
Jack Ryan
Joshua Daniels
Farris Yawn
Lynne Dodson
ADVERTISING SALES
Diana Garber
770-401-9898
PLEASE RECYCLE
Appalachian Country 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 is printed in the United States of America. The articles contained in this magazine are works of journalism and do not represent the opinions or ideas of Appalachian County Magazine and the publisher assume no responsibility for the content of advertisements. While we welcome submissions, the magazine is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. Please do not send originals. The magazine is given away free by advertisers and at selected businesses in the region. A one year subscription is $18 per year for six issues. For renewals, new subscriptions, or any other correspondence, write to P.O. Box 1668 Ellijay, GA 30540.
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A contents C Restaurant Spotlight
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Booming Blue Ridge
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Downtown Blue Ridge, Georgia is booming with all these new stores
Coming Home
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Remodeling Made Easy
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Our publisher's mission turns into a community project We searched north Georgia for the best in their fields for your home
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Old Favorites New Makeovers 30 Old recipes come alive with these healthier suggestions
Thrill of the Hunt
Woodstock Market is the place to be for any treasure hunter
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Our Little Bit of Italy
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New in Woodstock
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Canton Festival of the Arts
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Celebrating the Seasons
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Calendar of Events Business Index
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Charlie and Collette Perrone's dream is becoming reality this spring Woodstock's new businesses come together to revitalize the town Artists of all kinds are called together to celebrate
Big Canoe's annual Tour of Homes
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Restaurant Spotlight
Shane’s Rib Shack has been open in East Ellijay for two years. During that time many loyal customers have sampled the mouth watering ribs, heaping Big Dad barbeque sandwich and wonderful sides and desserts. What many people don’t know is that Shane’s also has the best chicken around! Our chicken tenders are huge and can be ordered tossed in one of our signature sauces or plain. The chicken tenders come fried or grilled both are tender and juicy. Shane’s also serves wings that are the best in town! Owner, Steve Stone, would like to say thanks to his loyal customers for making the last 2 years a success. If you have not been to Shane’s, please come try us out, I know you will like us! Shane’s caters! Call Roxanne Luplow at 706-669-8199 to set up your next event. No group is too big or too small. Just off of 515, in front of Walmart, 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!”
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Booming Blue Ridge By Stacey Lanning
Christy Lee's Tuscan Chicken Pasta
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Downtown Blue Ridge, Georgia has more than a few new businesses moving in. Combined with the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway train that runs through most of the year and the Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association that hosts spectacular art events all year, it’s an unbeatable combination for visitors to the north Georgia mountains. Here is a look at just a few of the new businesses to the area.
Christy Lee’s Courtyard Grille
Specializing in incredible seafood, fresh shucked oysters and sterling silver hand cut filets, Christy Lee’s has become a staple in the Blue Ridge community, for its elegant dining indoors. But, if you get a chance to sit in the stone courtyard, take it. You’ll be transported to a European chateau with worn stones beneath your feet, soft music and fresh flowers surrounding you. Christy Lee’s prides itself on being a family owned and operated business. Named for their youngest daughter who loves to cook, owners Gary and Brenda 8
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didn’t realize it would be their son Anthony who would become the true chef of the family. Anthony has now been named executive chef and is bringing the menu at Christy Lee’s to an incredibly Tuscan Lump desirable taste and presentation. The Crab Tower Salad restaurant has quickly become known for bringing its great food and fantastic personalized service to every customer that comes through the door. Christy Lee's treasures each and every customer that walks through its doors. Whether the occasion is a birthday or anniversary or just old friends getting together, it will be a dining memory lasting forever.” Come and enjoy Christy Lee’s this year. For more information, call (706) 946-5100 or visit www.christylees.com.
Blue Ridge Mountain Outfitters The great outdoors! Since 42% of Fannin County’s land area is comprised of the Chattahoochee National Forest and the Cohutta Wilderness, if you are in Blue Ridge, you are hiking. Better
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be prepared. Established in 2005, this full service outfitter has expanded to three locations: Blue Ridge, Copperhill and Dahlonega. Owner Linda Rice insists that her store carry only the best: The North Face, Patagonia, Under Armour, Mountain Hardware, Marmot, prAna, Chaco, UGG, Rainbow, Five Fingers, Smartwool, Vasque, Olukai, Osprey, Camelback, Crocs, Kavu, Timbuk2, Salomon, Smith Optics, Timex, Columbia Watches and Emotion Kayaks. The store’s extensive inventory provides big city selection, but it’s the small town personal service that will bring you back. To enter Linda’s store is to sense her great love for her Creator and respect for His creation. Blue Ridge Mountain Outfitters is open seven days a week, providing services like guided hikes, trail information and in-store classes. Worldwide shipping is available for any item in the store. As a proud sponsor of the Blue Ridge Mountain Outfitters Family Adventure Race, Linda and her team are eager to get visitors and residents alike into the great outdoors. Blue Ridge Mountain Outfitters is located at 500 E. Main St. For more information, call (706) 258-3232 or visit www.hikeblueridge. com.
L & L Beanery East
Jim and Lynda Thompson realized a need for a place for her community to
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gather over seven years ago. They decided a warm, inviting coffee shop was the answer. It is the place that many in Blue Ridge go for coffee, Above: Russell Stookey sits with Chief Johnny Scearce. Below: Owner Lynda Thompson tea, smoothies, bagels, scones and deserts, not to mention the FREE wi-fi. It is also the perfect spot to enjoy a quiet afternoon reading by the fireplace, studying for a test, a small meeting, or a group Bible study. After Lynda had been opened several years it came to her attention that chef Kathy Wilson, who was well know from Ellijay, wanted to bring her talents to Blue Ridge. Lynda hired her on the spot without really knowing where she could use her. Soon after, they opened a café next door to the coffee shop with great service and amazing food. The cafe grew and was taking up space in the coffee shop between 11:00 & 2:30 so when a spot became available at 612 East Main street, Jim and Lynda knew they couldn’t pass up the opportunity to open the second coffee shop, L & L Beanery East. L & L Beanery East opened the doors to customers in December of last year. Decorated in earth tones with an antique mirror hanging behind the espresso machines, and an outdoor deck shaded by an antique tree, it is clear that Jim and Lynda have created another home away from home. Lynda is quick to point out that while atmosphere is important, it is people that make a place. This main street location has quickly become known for the same quality service, and most importantly, the same quality coffee, that Jim and Lynda have prided themselves in for almost a decade. For more information, call (706) 632-3242.
Mercantile at Blue Ridge
Mercantile at Blue Ridge's owner, Angela, always dreamed of owning an antique store. When she visited Blue Ridge many years ago she fell in love with the area. Her family bought a second home in Blue Ridge and finally made the move to the area permanently. Six months ago, she opened the 10
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Mercantile at Blue Ridge, an eclectic store with something for everyone. Angela makes every effort to buy American made products and to sell at prices her customers can afford. There’s not another store with this much variety in the North Georgia area. You can find quilts, boots, clothing, cabin décor, antiques and genuine animal skin rugs. There is also a wonderful selection of knives, jewelry and homemade soy candles. The Mercantile is also known for carrying items from local artists including birdhouses, stained glass, Native American jewelry by Chief Harry, art work, handmade furniture and hand painted signs. It’s really the kind of store you have to see to believe. Angela loves that her store was originally a mercantile years ago. In the spirit of that tradition she also carries items that her customers use everyday like gourmet food, Buck wood stoves, gas logs and children’s toys. Because of her selection and great prices, Angela has a large local customer base that love the fact they can find what they need to decorate their home without having to leave their community to shop. The Mercantile is as unique as the people that come together to make this store a success. For more information, call (706) 632-3366.
PJ’s Rusted Buffalo
It is impossible to pass by PJ’s Rusted Buffalo when walking down Main Street once you notice the orange glow of Himalayan Salt Crystal lamps. A natural air purifier that is great for people with asthma, allergies, and migraines, they also sell Himalayan table salt which is only 3% sodium, but 100% taste. The tremendous flavor comes from the over 84 trace minerals that our bodies need. It is great for people with acid reflux and can decrease blood pressure. And while the salt might draw you in, the variety of other products you’ll find will keep you shopping for
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Welcome to Blue Ridge, Georgia!
some time. Pam and Joe Chadwick opened a store in McDonough, GA over 13 years ago as a custom finish iron furniture store. They quickly expanded into home dĂŠcor lines and stayed nine years until they decided to relocate in Ellijay, GA in 2006. With their success in Ellijay, they recently opened a second location in Blue Ridge in 2010. They sell framed art prints, lamps, and other unique decor at very reasonable prices. Pam and Joe love to shop every week to find new and different items for the home. The inventory is changing constantly. Please come in and meet Betsy, the
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Ellijay manager, or Kathy, manager of the Blue Ridge store and all of the ladies of PJ’s. Pam and Joe are sure that when you leave you will have found a new friend in the North Georgia Mountains. PJ’s is open seven days a week all year around. As a small business, they recognize that money is tight, and consider it a compliment when someone chooses to purchase from them. They truly are sincere when they say how much they appreciate your business. For more information, call (706) 946-8111 for Blue Ridge or (706) 515-8111 for Ellijay.
Paula’s Wardrobe
Paula Harvey opened her upscale consignment and boutique on April 2, 2010. For many years, Paula desired to open a unique shop in a small city where she could interact with the community. In her beautiful store on Main Street, Paula has the gift of service. She takes great joy in helping other women feel wonderful and confident about themselves in how they dress and their overall appearance. With casual and formal designs, there is truly something for every woman at Paula’s. Paula’s Wardrobe offers a vast array of designer clothing along with an eclectic mix of jewelry, handbags, hats, gloves, scarves and shoes from well known designers. Paula goes out of her way to carry upscale consignment (in both junior and misses sizes) and retail accessories. Once you find that perfect outfit, you won’t leave the store before finding the perfect scarf and hat to go along with it. Paula’s Wardrobe is also the best choice for making money from your old clothes, however there are restrictions so all clothes are up-to-date and clean. Whether it’s Paula’s warm personality or the great selection that brings customers in, Paula’s Wardrobe is the place to find great buys. For more information, call (706) 946-6405 or visit www. paulaswardrobeonline.com.
Majestic Child
Virtually everyday, Paige King at Majestic Child
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hears a very similar message from her customers, "Thank you for being here... we have needed a store like this here for a long time!" Paige attributes the success of Majestic Child to her original concept, that is, to provide superior customer service while providing quality products at affordable prices. She did not want the store to be perceived as a high end, high priced boutique but rather a clean, colorful store with department store quality and prices. Paige has learned from her career in banking how customers want to be treated and she has instilled those values in all of her employees. Majestic Child is known for everyday wear, special occasion clothing, gifts and accessories. The store carries a large line of dresses, raincoats and boots, shoes, hairbows, hats, toys and books. Clothing sizes range from newborn to size 16. Majestic Child is located in Blue Ridge at 624 E. Main Street and can be reached at 251 632 8327. Additionally, a second store has been opened in Hiawassee at 140 N. Main Street.
Posh on Main
“Spoil Your Soul.” It’s the slogan of Blue Ridge’s Posh on Main and very appropriate. You don’t even have to walk through the door to realize Posh on Main is a special place. Owners Matt Garrett and Millie Hughes create store displays that somehow blend the hometown feel of Blue Ridge, Georgia with the trend setting shopping of Rodeo Drive. The style of Posh prides itself on being a step ahead of anything you can find at a mall. They carry clothing lines from companies out of New York and Los Angeles, while
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Blue Ridge Scenic Railway maintaining prices even high school students can afford. Posh even features local talented artists. Millie says she has several customers that come to her store every weekend to see what new items they have received that week. Both Matt and Millie are warm, caring people that truly love spoiling their customers. They have specials every week with some of the most adorable things. Millie, who formally decorated model homes, is a genius at arranging the store. Everywhere customers turn, there’s a new, breathtaking something. It’s a little bit of cute meets edgy and daring. But she doesn’t want that to stop you from treating the store like a closet. Customers are welcome to try on anything they see. With his charm and friendliness, Matt also helps customers feel instantly at ease. The store carries jeans, purses, TokyoMilk beauty products, and many handmade items not found anywhere else in north Georgia. Open only a year, Matt and Millie have become fixtures in this Blue Ridge community. For more information, call (706) 258-2237 or check out their website coming soon!
Harvest on Main
Harvest on Main makes its home in a stately lodge building in the heart of downtown. A delight for the senses, the decor is just what you'd expect to find in a destination mountain community. Chef and owner Danny Mellman's cooking can best be described as creative American cuisine with a southern twist. With a varied and acclaimed culinary background, Danny brings his eclectic cooking style to the community with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients taking advantage of local production as much as possible. After vacationing in here for six years, Danny and his family
were thrilled to finally be living and working in Blue Ridge. The restaurant is testament to Danny’s desire to bring a local feel to his customers and develop a restaurant that is accessible to all. Along with great service and food, Harvest on Main has the feel of a family cabin or lodge with its roaring fireplace, open kitchen and southern hospitality. Danny's passion for using fresh, locally grown products spawned another project. Along with his wife, Michelle, they are focusing on their newest project of bringing an agricultural and culinary center to Blue Ridge. This thrilling venture will feature an impressive sustainable garden, honey production, smokehouse, classroom, professional kitchen (with cooking classes) and outdoor cooking facility. Michelle's goal is to connect families in need with partners in agriculture, creating a sustainable farming center that feeds the community and helps incubate new businesses in Blue Ridge. It will be a one-of-a-kind tourist destination as well. To get involved or donate resources, call (239) 992-2404. For more information on Harvest On Main, call (706)9466164 or visit www. harvestonmain.com. You can also be friends with them on Facebook @ harvestonmain!
A decorating C
by Jodi Williams
Coming H Cover Credits: Adirondack chair, Vietri cup and teak table courtesy of Lakota Cove; plants courtesy of Mountain Ridge Garden Shop; amber lanterns courtesy of Wrapsody in Blue; pillow courtesy of Cartecay River Trading Company.
While I may not be Martha Stewart (thank goodness for that...I don't think jail would agree with me), I can appreciate the men and women out there that create a comfortable home like she does. Especially for this issue, I searched out the best people in the field to see what they could do together. I was amazed...and exhausted. I talked to so many people, interviewed them and checked out what they had to offer. From one person to the next my journey carried me through every facet of decorating a home. If it hadn't been for wanting to report back for this article, I don't think I would have finished. It's a daunting task, hard enough to do, harder to write about. So, my story began with a front porch. 14
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Tapestry Cornice Boards courtesy of Alexandra's Accents. Contact: Laura Emery (770) 617-1980 Pinched Pleat Drapes courtesy of ASAP Upholstery Contact: (770) 590-8089 Silver Condiment Dish, Silver Arthur Court Pitcher and Lighted Branches in Floral Arrangement courtesy of Wrapsody in Blue. Contact: Michael Brunson (706) 258-2700
Home Antique Silver Tray courtesy of Sycamore Crossing in Blue Ridge. Contact: Jane Whaley (706) 632.3366
Lakota Cove
Rustic Table, Vietri Tableware, Linens, Silver Candlesticks, Rustic Chairs and Floral Centerpieces courtesy of Lakota Cove. Contact: Linda Magness (770) 893-3495
If you check out what Lakota Cove has done with the front porch on the cover of this April/May spring issue, you’ll see why Linda Magness at Lakota Cove says “Your home is not a home until you’ve created your porch!” Gathering together with friends and family is what’s important today, away from the busy work environment. Communing with nature, fresh air, the birds, the leaves rustling in the breeze, nestled into your outdoor furniture will bring you nothing but peace and satisfaction as you enjoy your outdoor oasis. I adore Lakota Cove’s furniture. It’s all handmade and quality. If you look at the dining room table in the photos in this article, you’ll see the rustic wood was made from reclaimed wood by a family in Wisconsin using 100 year old ghost pine timber. Each piece of furniture is one of a kind. With over 12,000 square feet in her large store, Linda carries all kinds of accessories like Vietri pottery and Beatriz Ball tableware to make any table shine. Lakota Cove has exhibited rustic furniture in home shows for years. The designers use their vision of the American Spirit to create furniture, handcrafted iron, wagon wheel furniture, willow, lighting and Western art to decorate homes across the nation. Linda specializes in rustic elegance and her charming porch furniture can fit everyone’s taste and budget. The recycled polyethylene furniture pictured on the cover gives you a longer
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lasting, beautiful product that allows you to spill your iced tea, splash the barbecue sauce and drop the potato salad because it’s nothing that this durable, comfortable and attractive furniture can’t handle! While all of Lakota Cove’s rustic décor is the highest quality, the porch furniture is amazing! What a better idea for Spring than coming home to a entryway that defines who you are? As Linda says, “It’s not a home until you have a chair and flowers greeting you at the door when you “come home.” (By the way, we completely stole that for our theme this issue--thank you, Linda!) Lakota Cove is located at 230 Old Mill White Road Ext. in Jasper. For more information, call (770) 893-3495.
Fabric and Fringe Warehouse
The next phase of my journey meant traveling inside the home. Every home needs color and fabric. Window treatments, upholstery, pillows...you name it. We all use fabric somewhere. For this part, I went to Marty Williamson, owner of Fabric and Fringe Warehouse in Marietta. Being in business for 14 years, he knows many seamstresses and businesses that specialize in home décor. It’s hard to imagine the size of almost 20,000 square feet of fabric, but if you walk into Fabric and Fringe Warehouse, you’ll be overwhelmed with the enormity of the selection. They used to sell wholesale, but now open their doors to the public and price match. It stands to reason that a wide variety comes with bottom dollar prices on everything from silks to tapestries. Thousands of designer fabrics for every kind of home project are available. Trims, linings, pillow forms, curtain rods, finials and more are displayed. What Marty and his knowledgeable staff don’t have on hand, they can order or provide you with the resources to find it. I found them all very efficient and friendly. While Fabric and Fringe Warehouse has new fabrics arriving daily, it also means that some of their fabrics are on sale because there is a limited quantity. One mistake I made was not buying enough drapery fabric. When I went back to get more, they were out of it. If you decide to use your own coordinating fabrics, it’s important to get enough to do the entire project. Fabric and Fringe Warehouse is located at 2440 Canton Road in Marietta. To contact them call (770) 794-8106 or visit www.fabricsandfringe.com. Next, I needed to find someone talented enough to make everything. Marty referred me to four businesses. Of those, I sent out specs for the job, got estimates, talked to the contractors, looked at references and finally, settled on two of them: ASAP Upholstery and Alexandra’s Accents.
ASAP Upholstery
Located just next door to Fabric and Fringe, ASAP Upholstery does more than just upholstering furniture. They regularly have sales and specials going so it’s worth it just to check their competitive prices. This company started in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic over 30 years ago, where the owner, Juan Garcia Rosa worked with a great variety of famous people like Oscar de La Renta, the artist Julio Iglesias and the former Dominican president Dr. Joaquin Balaguer. It was with the same hard work and dedication that Juan opened his store here six years ago. I knew ASAP did commercial and residential upholstery, but I didn’t realize they also made bedding, throws, pillows, slip covers and window treatments. When you walk in the 16
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store, it’s hard not to stare at the lovely restored antiques they sell. I learned about all kinds of options for windows. There are roman shades, drapes, valances and more. Just naming all the options customers have would be another article. ASAP’s customer service was unparalleled. Nazly Merritt sat down with me and went over my options. Keep in mind that it will take time to discuss what you’re planning. To get estimates, you need measurements, fabric swatches and an idea of what you want. ASAP has books available so that wasn’t a problem for me. Nazly sat down and drew up a sketch of the rooms we discussed while I told her what we had in mind. Some of it was possible, but, as with any job, there were complications. We discovered I didn’t have enough fabric to make the red drapes for our sample dining room. No problem, said Nazly. We’d just combine it with another fabric to make, not only an interesting drape, but something that would work. (My biggest recommendation to anyone deciding to have anything made is to make sure that the person making them is the one who tells you how much fabric you need. We ended up with too much of some fabric and sadly short on others.) ASAP Upholstery This cornice is padded and & Furniture is located at 2452 accented by beads. The pinch pleat drapes are lined to create Canton Road in Marietta. They a fuller look as well as being a can be reached at (770) 590-8089. good insulator.
Alexandra’s Accents
With part of the job contracted out, I found Laura Emery at Alexandra’s Accents. She must be the woman who’s name gets passed around at luncheons and family gatherings. She’s the Renaissance woman who can really do anything. If it requires sewing or home decorating, Laura is amazing to watch. A gifted needlewoman since childhood, Laura worked in high school in alterations, where she perfected her ability to pull together colors and designs into a real work of art. After earning a degree in Fashion Design, she started Alexandra’s Accents in 2002 as a way to use her skills. At first, it was decorative pillows, then her business evolved into window treatments and bedding. The more she does, the more her name is recommended to friends and family. I chose Laura because she had competitive pricing and was very professional. From our first contact, she emailed a link to photos of her past jobs so I could see her work. She also offered references and wanted to know what I was looking for. It was a bonus that our personalities clicked (but I would never recommend anyone hiring someone based on personality--that almost never turns out
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Wall prepping and painting courtesy of Squeaky Clean. Contact: Gilbert Simpson (706) 692-9013 Renaissance painting courtesy of Atlanta artist Denis Byrd. Contact: www.denisbyrd.com or email: studio@denisbyrd.com Drapes and Roman Shades courtesy of ASAP Upholstery Contact: (770) 590-8089. Hardware and fabric courtesy of Fabric & Fringe Warehouse. (770) 794-8106 Bedspread, Euro Shams, King Shams and Bolster Pillow courtesy of Alexandra's Accents. Breakfast tray and Contact: Laura Emery arrangements courtesy (770) 617-1980 of Sycamore Crossing in Blue Ridge. Contact: Jane Whaley (706) 632.3366 Bedskirt courtesy of DLC Alterations in Ellijay. Contact: Debbie Carroll (706) 276.2490
well). She’s naturally a humorous person and was able to reassure me and make a normally stressful time very fun. Now, as to her skill… wow. I had one swatch of fabric and Laura used her creativity to combine it with two other Curtains come in all shapes and sizes like fabrics and make a bedspread this valance made by Alexandra's Accents that was, quite honestly, the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen. With swirls, stripes and bows, what came off her machine was an art in its own right. The matching pillows just added the perfect touch. I was also blown away by her ability to design, construct and install just about any type bedding and window treatments. She designs for the individual and nothing is ever exactly the same as what she’s done for someone else. It’s obvious to see that Laura loves what she does and the quality job that I saw proves it. To contact Alexandra’s Accents, call (770) 617-1980 or email alexandrasaccents@comcast.net.
DLC Alterations and Custom Clothier
DLC Alterations owner Debbie Carroll stands next to some of her and her mother's work. 18
I should note that in my quest, I tried to find someone in each town who has talent for sewing. For the bed skirt, DLC Alterations in Ellijay was a natural choice, coming highly recommended by the local quilt store. Being new to Ellijay, the owner, Debbie Carroll, had not done much work locally besides alterations, but her clothing work was sublime. She was efficient, friendly and complemented the magazine (which of course, won my heart). More to the point, she was recommended by someone I trusted, so I
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contracted her to finish the last part of my project. She estimated a price, gave me a timetable and followed through with her word on both. With her training in couture and tailoring, Debbie is a whiz with a needle. She’s very well educated when it comes to fabric. She has taken courses in Portland, Oregon for years intended for expert sewers only. If you walk into her shop just off Main Street, there are bolts of captivating fabric on the wall along with handmade purses and quilts. The quilts and purses for sale are from her mother, Carolyn, who also works with Debbie. Not only does Debbie make bedding but she can create dresses and all sorts of custom made clothing. Gowns to buttons, nothing is too small or too big of a job. If you think she’s limited, think again. Not many people will work with leather, but Debbie can sew and alter it with the ease born of experience. To contact DLC Alterations, call (706) 2762490 or email barcarolle@etcmail.com.
ACE Hardware
The easiest way to give a room a new look is to paint it. Whether you want to make it look brighter with whites or warmer with reds, a coat of paint is also the least expensive redecorating you'll do. A $20 can of paint from ACE Hardware in Ellijay was all we needed and we were guaranteed a quality paint that covers right the first time. I love ACE because it’s a locally owned hardware store that’s been in business since I can remember. Mack Logan’s store is worth a trip just for the ideas. He combines all aspects of home and building into one center with the perfect amount of unique accessories for all of it. The furniture area is it’s own store with wall to wall pictures, accessories, furniture and a special order center. He also has all the outdoor and patio furniture displayed just in time for summer. Our photographer, Stacey Lanning, and I browsed through his landscaping and gardening supplies to find something to decorate
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our cover with. (You can’t beat the price of the whiskey barrels, but crack the windows when you go home with them or you’ll find yourself weaving in the road.) ACE has a fountain they built with the barrels that is beautifully rustic and adds the perfect amount of peace the garden area. The staff is very helpful and can help you put together anything from gardens to a living room set. ACE Hardware is located at 305 South Main Street in Ellijay. They can be contacted at (706) 635-2236.
Squeaky Clean
So, it was time to prep and paint the room. One of my customers I’ve heard so much about was Squeaky Clean Windows in Tate. The owner, Gilbert Simpson, was always courteous and followed up with me when I had questions. Gilbert & Christi Simpson I knew, as the name suggests, that he and his crew did window cleaning, but had just found out they did gutter cleaning, pressure washing, staining, and…painting. After I called him and Alexandra's Accents made this dreamy bedspread told him I had the paint ready to go, his crew reversible and pinched together with brown bows. Owner Laura Emery alternated fabric was there the next day. They prepped, painted, from the roman shades, drapes and bedspread to cut in paint and cleaned up within just a few make a one-of-a-kind work of art. hours. The crew leader asked me to call if the room needed another coat. It did and I called. Again, they were there the next day (I really liked the promptness). This time it only took a little over an hour and they cleaned up. If you think their service was because they had nothing to do, you would be wrong. Gilbert and his wife, Christi, just happen to be very good at scheduling and planning. In business for over 6 years, always note that Christ is the center of their business and their success is due to Him and their wonderful customers that keep coming back. One of the more unusual services by Squeaky Clean is the Epoxy garage flooring that they sell. While I don’t even have a garage, I was impressed how it could completely cover an ugly floor and turn it into a showroom. I’m going to keep their number for that day. Squeaky Clean Windows is located at 4855 Hwy 53 East in Tate. They can be contacted at (706) 692-9013 or visit www. squeakywindows.com for more information.
Sycamore Crossing
Once the walls were painted, drapes and bedding added, the room was perfect...almost. As with any home, it needed the personal items that make a home. So, I asked two customers to help stage the room, making it inviting. Sycamore Crossing is about 15 years old and one of the most eclectic stores I’ve ever been in. There’s always a big smile and ‘hello’ waiting for customers when they walk in the door. Owner Jane Whaley started as a business for small dealers to rent space and sell antiques and collectables. Then, she decided to fill the entire store with her own merchandise from her world travels. Scarves from India, pottery from ancient China and crystal decanters from England are just a few of things that line Sycamore Crossing’s shelves. From big to small, she’s got heavy furniture to colorful stained glass windows. I really don’t have a favorite room in her store. There’s just something in each room to fall in love with. Local art creations are always present 20
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in her store and if you ever need help, don’t hesitate to ask the friendly staff that works there. If you know Jane, you’ll know that she’s always on the hunt for the unique and unusual to surprise her customers. The last time I went to her store, she had a lovely antique silver fruit bowl with drilled holes in the bottom she was making into a planter. You can’t miss her gardening and outdoor décor section because it almost fills her parking lot next to the store. Copper rain chains hang from the side and wrought iron gazebos beg to be walked under. Sycamore also has a new birdhouse room just in time for the coming spring. I like the way Sycamore Crossing was decorated, so I asked Jane if she would arrange one of our rooms. Thankfully, it was one of the services the store offers for homes and businesses, so I knew I would get experience and talent. Jane sat down with me and asked me what we were looking for--what styles did we like? The end result was perfect. They also build furniture to customer specifications and she can even convert antiques to functional pieces of modern furniture. Sycamore Crossing is located at 531 E. Main Street in Blue Ridge and can be reached at (706) 632-3366. Or, visit their website at www.sycamore-crossing.com.
Wrapsody in Blue
Ever since the magazine first went to Blue Ridge, Wrapsody in Blue owners Michael Brunson and Jack Morton have always welcomed me with a smile. Their store is a reflection of the owners. Inside is a highly distinctive mix of timeless furniture, decorative accessories, entertaining items, custom artwork, oil paintings, home decor and an endless line-up of sweets, gourmet treats and hostess gifts. It’s the ideal resource and destination for refined shopping. Wrapsody in Blue stands out from other interior décor stores because of their attention to detail and a close watch on everchanging trends. They carry lamps, furniture, window dressings picture frames, eclectic and unusual items like items made out of barrels, such as wall sconces and trays. Michael and Jack were very helpful in trying to decorate the table in our sample dining room. If you look at the table you can see Beatriz Ball and Arthur Court handmade silver dishes, which are food, oven and dishwasher safe. Visit them at 652 East Main Street in Blue Ridge. Check them out online at www. wrapsodyinblueridge.com or call (706) 258-2700.
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Tips on Hiring Contractors 1. Never give money up front. If you have to buy supplies, make sure they stay with you until the contractor is on site or ready to start. 2. Trust your instinct. If the price or person seems to good to be true, it just might be. Never hire someone because you like them or they are a friend. You’ll lose the friendship and your shirt. However, chemistry is important so make sure that you can be open, honest and reasonable with the person. 3. Do your homework. Even if it’s your mother (okay maybe not her), you need to check references and research the business. But, get a copy of their documents to make sure they’re licensed, bonded and insured just in case. If the company stalls, it’s a red flag. 4. Don’t bend to pressure sales. I’ve had contractors come for one job and try to sell me on their other services. That’s good salesmanship on their part, but they are playing on your impulse buying instinct for a good deal. Never buy immediately. Give it a day at least to talk it over and think about it. Do you need it? 5. Hire someone professional who is familiar with building codes in your area. Request an itemized formal bid from at least 3 contractors. Compare invoices throughout the job with the bid. Investigate discrepancies. 6. Have a well-written contract to avoid costly mistakes or additions. 7. Ask questions. Is there a less expensive way to achieve the same look? Does the contractor have suggestions? Keep in mind that they do this more than you, but while you can listen to their opinion, you will ultimately be the person living in the house, so make sure it’s done the way you want the first time. 8. Make decisions based on experience and quality, not just price. 9. Think about staging the work being done to minimize the financial impact. It may be more expensive in the long run, but you won’t have to go in debt to do it. 10. Be aware that suppliers/subcontractors who are owed money by your contractor can place a lien against your property. You can protect yourself by adding a release-oflien clause to your contract or asking for proof of payment from your contractor. 11. Do not issue final payment for a job until you’re satisfied the work is done properly. Please inspect the job in the daylight--I have made that mistake too. However, don’t abuse this and withhold $10000 because there’s a tiny scratch on your crosstie wall. Be reasonable and treat the contractor as you would like to be treated. www.acmagazine.org
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Remodeling By Joshua Daniels
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made easy
Debbie McLenon & Doug Shelburn of North Georgia Furniture & Home Decor
Remodeling your home this year can be easy as long as you keep a plan in mind. Make a list of what you need, make a budget and get estimates. Finding a contractor is as easy as looking at a list, but it’s not as easy to find someone you can work with. We collected a list of contractors from all over North Georgia to help you find your way this spring.
North Georgia Furniture & Home Décor Everyone needs a furniture source and someone they can trust. Doug Shelburn and furniture specialist Debbie McLenon have combined over 30 years of experience to make North Georgia Furniture one of the best places to find furniture for all budgets in the area. Their competitive prices are pretty amazing. A solid wood designer barstool by Ashley is just $45. There is literally furniture for every room of your home--dining room, office, bedroom, living room, 22
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home theater, youth bedroom, bathroom and more. North Georgia Furniture is unique in the fact that Doug or Debbie sit with each customer and take the time necessary to get what he/she wants at a price that meets the budget and the customer’s unique lifestyle. Since opening this past August, North Georgia Furniture has been blessed. It’s not hard to sell furniture when you give customers great service, selection and prices that are both fair and competitive. As Doug jokes, “We meet anybody’s price, even if we have to raise ours!“ All joking aside, if North Georgia Furniture doesn’t have it on the floor, they can order it. Delivery, installation and home design are services that go along with everything they do. For that next home improvement project, check out the selection at North Georgia Furniture, located at 2142 Tails Creek Road in Ellijay. They can be contacted at (706) 635-
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4202 or visit them online at www.ngfh.net.
Mountain Ridge Garden Shop Since 2006 Mountain Ridge Garden Shop in Ellijay has charmed customers again and again with its unique selection of garden art, beautiful plants and colorful displays. Owner Penney Trentman brings years of experience in the landscape and nursery business to life and knows how to create the atmosphere her customers have grown to love. Along with her business partner Sue Johnson, they keep the shop growing year after year. Due to popular demand, Mountain Ridge Garden Shop has expanded and moved to their new location on River Street. When you turn off 515 in Ellijay next to Hardees and go across the bridge and hang a right, it is hard to miss the big red barn decorated with blooming trees, colorful yard art and of course those chainsaw bears. Penney always carries a good selection of annuals, perennials, herbs, fruit trees blooming trees and shrubs and this year will be stocking soils and mulches. It is her love of the business that makes Mountain Ridge such a wonderful place to visit. The personal touch is apparent everywhere and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. They offer landscaping consultations and help with coordinating just the right plants to suit each customer’s needs. The best part about Mountain Ridge’s new place is the size of the inside. Penney and Sue made sure all the space is used for fun and education. First there is a kid’s corner where children can play and color while their parents shop. Then, the workshop area greets you with their new mascot, Dora the Daisy, who tells you what workshop will be coming up next. Workshops are held each Saturday at 10:30 and visitors can learn everything on how to keep deer out of their gardens to building scarecrows. Next, there is a pet corner that houses organic dog treats for those spoiled canines along with colorful coffee mugs, tote bags, floor mats and much more. The shop is filled with home and garden décor, fountains, interior plants and lots of metal yard and wall art. There is something for everyone. Many local artists come together to display their creativity and fine craftsmanship in the shop. On any given weekend one of the artists may decide to show off their skills by putting on a demonstration for visitors. Everyone is
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welcome to sit down and relax at the new café area for complimentary coffee and cookies. This is a good place to enjoy the sights and sounds of the garden shop. For a complete listing of workshop schedules, visit www.mountainridgegardenshop.com or stop by at 746 River Street in Ellijay (Mon-Fri 8:30-6:00 and Sat 8:30-5:00). For more information, call (706) 698-2815. Be sure not to miss the 1st annual Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 23, 2011. It is FREE and parental supervision is required. Daylight Glass Company It’s that touch of something that everyone notices immediately in a home. The cut glass that sparkles in the sunlight and makes you think a little bit of magic is still in the world. Stephanie Farrow, owner of Daylight Glass in Atlanta, brings that magic to people each day. She is, quite simply, the best at what she does. While she started out as a hobbyist, her talent was so apparent that Stephanie apprenticed with an Atlanta artist to hone her craft. While there, she realized that most people don’t realize the difference between a hobbyist and a master, but perfection is the key that withstands the test of time. Daylight Glass creates custom leaded and beveled windows, sandblasted designs, entryways, spa-tub privacy glass and more. Stephanie prides herself in the fact that she can make anything anyone can dream up. A few years ago, she worked on replacing The Tabernacle windows in Atlanta after a tornado ripped through them. It was a thrill to be able to repair something that had been destroyed. 100 windows in 3 weeks, 80 feet in the air…and she never missed a beat. On site repair is the added dimension that Stephanie loves. Daylight Glass can make necessary repairs immediately on site that make the glass look like new. Daylight Stained Glass & Repair is located at 5085 Peachtree Rd. in Atlanta. Stephanie can be reached at (404) 786-5457. Heritage Plumbing, Inc. Do you know a good plumber? How many times have you heard that question? Well, now there’s an answer--Heritage Plumbing in Ball Ground, Georgia. Owner Tommy Phillips has over 25 years of experience and promises his customers he gets it right the first time. When you walk in his office on Main Street, you’ll see 24
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framed certificates for Heritage Plumbing owner Tommy Phillips his highly skilled professional technicians that work for him. They are skilled at septic, sewer, water piping, poly re-piping, sewer camera and all kinds of repairs. Tommy and his team travel all over north Georgia and Atlanta to both residential and commercial jobs. The best part about Heritage Plumbing is the 100% satisfaction guarantee that goes with each job and FREE estimates. You really can’t get better than that for a plumber. Heritage Plumbing arrives on the job with professionalism and reliability that finishes the job on-time and, most importantly, within budget. They even have a 24/7 emergency service line. For more information, call them at (770) 735-3855. The emergency number is (404) 925-0102. Witt Building Everyone needs a reliable builder. Family-based Witt Building Company in Ellijay is one of the best. For over 10 years, the company has been successful, all due to owner Matthew Witt’s hard work, talent and likeable personality. Everyone that meets him has the same reaction… “Wow, what a knowledgeable, helpful, friendly guy!” From large industrial jobs to small residential homes, Matthew has used his talent for organization and hard work to finish all scales of jobs. With over 20 years of experience, Witt Building has continually flourished through loyal clients and positive
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for his specific need so he could move around his house by himself. He cried when he realized he could be independent again. The thing that makes Blue Moose Elevators unique is that they have an incredible amount of hands-on experience with elevators and lifts. The Blue Moose team actually Matthew Witt, owner of Witt Building Company concentrates on what the testimonies. Matthew is proud of client needs and finds the amount of customer referrals he solutions as unique as each person they constantly receives. Witt Building has help. won awards and Matthew’s work has been featured in such magazines as Log Home Living, Country’s Best Log Homes and even graced the cover of the May 2008 Log Home Design magazine. He’s also known as being the guy that can fix anything. Not only does he take on difficult jobs, but he also offers creative ideas and solutions to make it even better. One of the best things about Matthew is his ability to communicate with clients and his enthusiastic personality. He really loves helping people. With Matthew’s wife, Irene, Witt Building has expanded into a Monique started working faux painting division of the company in the accessibility and does some amazing work. As industry in 1993 at Access Industries in a licensed real estate agent, Irene is Kansas City. Brian started working for able to provide another perspective a commercial elevator company, Dover to clients renovating to sell their Elevators, in 1990. They brought their homes. Together, they make an many years of experience to Ellijay to unbeatable team. To contact them, start their own elevator business in call (706) 889-2480 or visit www. 2005. Monique has a certification in wittbuildingcompany.net. Home Modifications from the USC Gerontology Department. Blue Moose is a member of the National Aging in Blue Moose Elevators Place Council. The council is dedicated It’s not something you think to helping people stay in their homes about until you need it. About three as they age. Blue Moose earned the years ago, a man had a stroke and was Five Star dealer award from Savaria and unable to leave his upstairs bedroom the President’s Award from Harmar for without help. He didn’t eat with his outstanding service and performance family because of the stairs. So, he Monique and her team came to Blue Moose and owners sell, service and install stair lifts, Monique Swyer and Brian Clement dumbwaiters and elevators for homes for help. They listened, watched him and businesses. There are all types try to move and customized a stair lift of lifts available: attic, ceiling, car, 26
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wheelchair and vertical. Blue Moose has elevators and lifts for every budget. They even carry used lifts for people that need the help, but can’t afford something new. Blue Moose is available 24/7, 365 day a year. To contact them, call (706) 27-MOOSE (276-6673), toll-free at (866) 5438 or visit them online at www.bluemooseelevators.com. Cool Tech HVAC During the hot months of summer (and the cold ones of winter) it’s important to have a proper heating and cooling system in your home. Ventilation systems can be tricky and without the proper knowledge, you can spend thousands of dollars unnecessarily. Cool Tech HVAC in Canton is family owned and operated. The company has over 30 highly qualified technicians that get the job done…right. The highly trained staff and technicians are able to assist customers with just about any need. Whether it’s improving air quality on an existing home or helping a business get up and running, Cool Tech strives to offer an ethical, honest service for customers. They even have an A+ rating with Atlanta Better Business Bureau. The best part about Cool Tech is that they have a stocked warehouse ready to go for any size job-commercial or residential. Customers have the option of maintenance contracts, new service, installation and fixing equipment that’s already installed. Cool Tech takes pride in their
Cool Tech's owners, the Slayden Family
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slogan “If it can be fixed, we’ll fix it.” So many times, contractors will try to sell customers items and upgrades they don’t need. Cool Tech’s technician’s keep the customer (and their budget) in mind when working on a job. Honesty and integrity are the reason they are successful. Estimates are free and financing is available for customers interested in an expert opinion. There are also spring specials going on right now! To contact Cool Tech HVAC, call (770) 737-2525 or visit them online at www. cool-techhvac.com. Millwood Flooring We’ve all imagined the perfect home--whether cozy or luxurious, there is one trait all dream homes have: warmth. Perhaps it’s the fact that there’s a little bit of Mother Nature inside, but in a home, there is nothing more pleasing than a glowing wood floor. Amazingly, in Ellijay at Millwood Specialty Flooring, homeowners can see their floor planks being made from kiln-dried lumber to finished flooring, ready to be interlocked. Open to the public, Millwood Specialty Flooring offers even more options for homeowners than can be found at building supply
stores. It even has the distinction of having provided flooring for the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. in 1985 and many of the Cracker Barrel Restaurants. One of the advantages of buying direct is the obvious price savings. But, another one is knowing there won't be a lack of supply half way through the job. From prefinished flooring to custom orders, Millwood strives for personalized service and has options to suit any budget and style. A wood floor in a home has many advantages. If properly maintained, it can last past a lifetime. Wood flooring offers strength to the
structure of the home, not to mention boosting the resale value. Millwood Specialty Flooring is located at 2213 Progress Road in Ellijay, Georgia. They can be reached by phone at (706) 276-3300. For more information, visit their website at www. millwoodspecialtyflooring.com.
and Terry Anderson are very select. With over 800 individual consignors so far, Fun Finds and Designs has a steady supply of new items literally arriving daily. Consignors are able to check the status of their sales just by going on the website. The friendly staff is always
Fun Finds and Designs Imagine a consignment store that offers upscale furniture and home accessories—all stylishly displayed in over 5,000 square feet of professionally decorated space. It’s all at Canton’s Fun Finds and Designs, a different kind of consignment store that was also featured in the February issue of Southern Living magazine.. People are always surprised at the quality of the consignments because owners Betty
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Welcome to Cherokee County!
available to answer questions and all of them have either interior design, retail or estate sales experience. So, they bring a wide range of knowledge and experience to customers. Along with frequent shopper discounts, Fun Finds offers an email newsletter to alert customers about new items and events. As Betty says, “It’s a people-topeople kind of place.” Betty and Donna Honkomp are the two interior designers on staff and they work hard at making the customer’s shopping experience a delight. Customers can bring in photos for a free design consultation in the store or Betty or Donna can travel for in-home service. To further help customers find the perfect home décor, Betty and her staff offer free design workshops every other month on different home topics. The evening is always complimented by cheese, wine, chocolates and coffee and a very good time. Another Fun Finds’ trademark is to 28
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provide speedy clearance of items and give customers the best possible deals, so every 30 days an item remains in the store the price drops 10%. So there are discounts from 10%-50% available everyday. Art, rugs, furniture, accessories, lamps and more fill the corners, all tastefully arranged. Ideas and creativity fill every nook and cranny. The possibilities are endless! Fun Finds and Designs is located at 2765 Marietta Highway in Canton behind the Dairy Queen. For more information, visit their website at www. funfindsanddesigns.com or call (770) 7040448. Open Mon-Sat. 10:00-6:00.
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A recipes C
Old Favorites, New Makeovers Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Muffins
Don’t let the chocolate chips fool you, these aren’t sweet muffins, but they’re wonderfully yummy and perfect to entice kids of all ages into eating something good for them. 1 ¼ c. oats 1 ¼ c. milk 1 egg ½ c. applesauce ¾ c. packed brown sugar, divided ¾ c. semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 c. pecans, chopped, divided 1 ¼ c. all-purpose flour 4 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. salt In a large bowl, combine oats and milk. Let sit for 10 minutes to soften oats. Preheat oven to 400° F. Grease muffin pan or use cups. Stir in egg, oil, ½ of brown sugar, chocolate chips, and ½ of pecans into the oat mixture. In a small bowl, combine flour, baking powder and salt. Mix well and add to oat mixture, stirring just until mixed. Fill muffin cups and top with remaining brown sugar and pecans. Bake for 25 minutes or until done.
Southwest Salsa in
Sweet Potatoes
There’s nothing better than freshly baked sweet potatoes. Add the southwestern salsa and voila! You have a ready-made side dish that is not only good for you but a colorful dish. 4 med. sweet potatoes 1 15-oz. can black beans, rinsed 2 medium tomatoes, diced 1 tbs. olive oil 1 tsp. ground cumin 1 tsp. ground coriander ¾ tsp. salt
¼ c. sour cream ¼ c. fresh cilantro, chopped For best results, soak sweet potatoes for a couple of hours prior to baking. Poke sweet potatoes with a fork in several places. Bake in a preheated 425° oven for approximately 1 hour or until done. Just before sweet potatoes are done, combine beans, tomatoes, oil, cumin, coriander and salt. Microwave 3 minutes or until warm. Once done, cut each sweet potato lengthwise and press open. Make a well in the middle
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Make a well in the middle and add milk. Next, add mayonnaise and gently mix in to milk, adding flour from the sides. Once everything is mixed well, drop onto greased baking sheet and bake at 425° until done.
Curry Chicken Salad
and fill with black bean salsa. Top with sour cream and cilantro. Serve and enjoy!
Basic Biscuits
As we’ve already mentioned in past issues, the ability to make a good biscuit is a gift from God. With that in mind, we’ve collected three different recipes for you to choose your favorite from. The first is the most basic. The second is a little more complicated, but is very traditional. The final one is the healthiest (relatively speaking) because it doesn’t use the shortening. Mayonnaise may seem odd, but the biscuits are surprisingly good. We also tried using Veganaise® from the Natural Market in Jasper with great results. Made with grapeseed oil, it’s a very tasty and healthy choice. 1st recipe: 2 c. self-rising flour ¼ c. shortening or butter 1 c. buttermilk 2nd recipe: 2 c. all-purpose flour 1 tbs. baking powder 1 tsp. salt 1 tbs. sugar 1/3 c. shortening 1 c. buttermilk 3rd recipe: 1 c. self-rising flour ½ c. milk 2 tbs. mayonnaise or Veganaise® In a large bowl, measure out flour. 32
If you like Thai food and curry, you’ll love this take on the regular chicken salad. The added sweetness of apples are the perfect complement to this dish. We highly recommend trying the Veganaise from Natural Market in Jasper for this recipe. It’s not too overpowering and much better for you.
You might want to double the recipe because they’ll start disappearing fast. ½ stick butter, room temperature 1/3 c. light brown sugar, packed ¼ c. honey 1 egg ½ tsp. vanilla extract 2 tbs. applesauce ¾ c. self-rising flour ½ tsp. cinnamon ½ tsp. ginger ¼ tsp. salt Preheat to 350 F. Fill a muffin pan with liners or spray cups. In a large bowl, beat together butter, sugar, and honey until light and fluffy. In another bowl, beat egg, vanilla and applesauce. Stir into butter mixture and slowly add flour, cinnamon, ginger and salt. Divide batter between cups and bake 18-20 minutes or until done. Remove and let cool before icing. Icing recommendations: powdered sugar, jam, fondant, or regular icing.
1 c. mayonnaise or Veganaise® 2 tsp. curry powder ¼ tsp. ginger ½ tsp. salt ¼ tsp. cayenne 2 c. cooked chicken, diced 1 c. celery, chopped 1 c. apples, diced In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, curry, ginger, salt and cayenne. Mix well and set aside. In a large bowl, toss together chicken, celery and apples. Mix in mayonnaise mixture well. Place in croissants or bread of your choice and serve.
Honey Cupcakes
Be warned: this recipe makes only 6 cupcakes and they taste super delicious!
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Spinach and Artichoke Dip
It’s hard to resist spinach dip, but anything healthy about it is lost with all the added fat. Here is a healthy alternative, made thick by the flour/milk mixture. It has a fresher taste than regular dip and the added benefit of better for you. ¼ c. all-purpose flour 3 ½ c. milk ½ c. onion, chopped fine ¼ c. red bell pepper, chopped fine 2 tsp. garlic, minced 1 c. Romano cheese, grated 1 c. frozen, chopped spinach ½ c. frozen artichoke hearts, thawed and chopped ½ tsp. salt ½ tsp. pepper 1 tomato, diced In a large saucepan, whisk flour and milk together. Stir in onion, pepper and garlic. Bring to a low simmer and cook until it thickens, usually about 6-7 minutes. Reduce heat and add cheese. Stir until melted. Thaw and squeeze dry the frozen spinach. Add to mixture, then add artichokes, salt and pepper. Simmer 5 more minutes uncovered, then place on serving dish. Top with tomatoes and serve.
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Thrill of the
Hunt
By Jillian Daniels
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Just in time for spring, Woodstock Market and Show has opened it’s parking lot again! Owners Karen Bennett and Lisa Welty opened Woodstock Market a couple of years ago to create a place where talent and creativity could thrive. It is one of the most unique businesses in the area, a combination of an upscale consignment store and an outdoor market and craft show. They both had the talent of taking antique furniture, salvaged wood and unique materials and giving them new life. If you walk in Woodstock Market, you’ll see booths filled with well-arranged antiques and consignments. It is far from anything typical.
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Twenty years customer to find ago, Karen and Lisa met that special piece at a inner-city children’s they have been ministry in Atlanta that looking for,” notes Karen had founded. Lisa. The staff at “Our desire to help is still the store is very important to us. One of accommodating the reasons we want to and often takes build a successful business names and phone is to be able to donate numbers of significantly to charities,” customers so they says Lisa. With this can keep an eye mission in mind, the two out for a particular women have built a store that is piece. Karen and Lisa also hard to believe unless you see it. offer furniture restoration and Karen and Lisa both repurposing services, interior have an amazing talent at design, lamp repair, chair creating displays that draw caning, upholstery, delivery in customers. Inside you will and layaway. find our consignment store Another part of where we combine an offbeat Woodstock Market is the mix of quality furniture, home Outdoor Market and Antique accessories and gift items with show put the first weekend antiques, collectibles, jewelry of every month (Marchand furniture brought back to December). It is a fun way life by local craftsmen. There is to spend the day for anyone always something new to look at…a enjoying homemade crafts, different piece of art on the wall, jewelry, antiques, clothing and a drawer pull made like a bird, a more. Reminiscent of an old custom built piece of furniture…the world street market, it really is list goes on. a mix of the old and the new. Housed in a shopping There is an offbeat mix of goods center, Woodstock Market uses its ranging from antiques to vintage, incredible amount of room to make collectibles to items made by the store more inviting. Designed local craftsmen, architectural with aged wood, comforting colors salvage to metal art, plants and a country porch, visitors are and flowers to fresh produce encouraged to stay, visit and enjoy their and unique to one-of-a-kind. The surroundings. “Customers frequently tell parking lot is always filled with booths us it’s our inspiring displays and one-of-aand vendors happy to discuss their art. kind items that keep them coming back,” Currently, the market averages 65-70 smiles Lisa. Karen agrees, “We believe a vendors (and an astonishing 2500-3000 home’s character is in the details which visitors) each weekend. If you are like is why we search for the unusual here.” Karen and Lisa you know the thrill of the Their creativity certainly helps Woodstock hunt is what it’s all about and Woodstock Market stand out from a typical retail Market has something for everyone! store. Woodstock Market is located at One of the ways Woodstock 9464 Main Street in Woodstock. They Market keeps a variety of merchandise are open Tuesday – Saturday 10am Owners Lisa Welty and Karen Bennett – 6pm and Sunday 12pm – 6pm. is by accepting quality consignments. Anyone who has the unusual or the well-kept piece of They can be reached at (770) 517-7771 or visit www. furniture to sell is welcome to display their items at the woodstockmarket.homestead.com (Consignment Store) and market. “We want our vendors to be successful and at the www.woodstockmarketshow.com (Outdoor Market & Antique same time, provide a venue for our consignors and help our Show information). 36
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Welcome to Jasper, Georgia!
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Our Little Bit of Italy by Sharon Fendley
Charlie's Restaurant & Pizzeria owners Collette and Charlie Perrone 38
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Who doesn’t love Italian food? The melting cheese, ripe tomatoes and fresh pasta are only part of the combination people crave. There is also the fresh seafood, salmon, steaks and veal that most people don’t think about. Charlie’s Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria in Ellijay has the distinction of serving the best Italian food in north Georgia for over 15 years. Every meal is hand-prepared using only the finest quality ingredients by Charlie Perrone and his staff. In a time where travel is expensive, a trip to Italy is as easy as a drive to Ellijay. An Italian by birth, Charlie was born in Bari, Italy in 1957 and raised in South Florida. From childhood, Charlie carried the family passion for cooking that he decided to bring to north Georgia in 1996. Not only has Charlie been the winner of several culinary art shows, but he’s also cooked for celebrities like Julia Child, Tony Bennett, Jerry Lewis, Diane Carroll and Joe DiMaggio. Just asking Charlie about his life will bring a light to his eyes as the memories come rolling in. Each person who walks in the door becomes part of the family.
He and his wife, Collette, are always on hand to make sure customers have an enjoyable dining experience. Since they met 25 years ago in his brother’s Italian restaurant where he was working as a chef, Charlie and Collette have always made a great team. They opened their own restaurant in Florida just 5 years later and have been providing people with the freshest ingredients, best service and family atmosphere ever since. Even before you enter their restaurant, the smell of garlic and
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fresh bread baking drifts through the air, greeting customers on their way in. Charlie’s offers casual dining in a warm, cozy-family atmosphere. Part of the charm is the surroundings, but most of it is the friendly staff and the warm greeting that meets visitors. Each diner could be another member of the family walking through the door. “It’s really our customers that make the business,” says Charlie. “They’ve always supported us and keep coming back.” Collette agrees. “We feel that Charlie‘s is here because of the people in north
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The Perrones stand proudly in the entrance of their new building. It will have outdoor dining, a lounge, a private room and a large seating area with a fireplace.
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Georgia. Our business is their business. It’s everyone’s little bit of Italy in the mountains.” It’s no wonder customers come back. Open for lunch and dinner, the menu includes chicken cacciatore, veal Marsala, gnocchi (potato pasta), lasagna, eggplant parmigiana and much, much more. Many people return for the classic Italian pizzas made from scratch. Every meal is hand prepared and most visitors don’t realize that Charlie and Collette insist on having the finest quality ingredients. The entire menu is moderately priced and includes fresh bread and salads. Traditional Italian desserts like tiramisu and cannoli are offered with an espresso or cappacciano for a truly exquisite end to each customer’s dining experience. For a truly authentic dining experience, Charlie’s is opening a new location on 515 in Ellijay equipped with outdoor dining, a private dining room, lots of seating space inside and the same authentic Italian food. It’s easy to see the excitement in the Perrones’ faces when they talk about their new building. Charlie looks like the proverbial kid in the candy store. “Not only is this restaurant for us,” grins Charlie. “But, it’s also for our customers that have supported us for the last 15 years.” Collette adds, “We’re very proud to be able to build a place for everyone to come and dine.” Their goal is to create a truly authentic dining experience that takes customers to a European place without leaving the mountains. Opening their restaurant in their own building was the dream of a lifetime for Charlie and Collette. They really make quite a team. While Charlie manages the kitchen, Collette takes care of the bookkeeping and dining room. Even in their personal life, Charlie does the cooking. Collette jokes that he always gets the last word and that since she can’t cook she “never bites the hand that feeds her.” But, you can tell that Charlie’s family recipes do the trick in keeping both Collette and their customers happy. As the Perrones say, “At Charlie’s Restaurant, the hospitality is always warm and the food is never cold.” The sweet aroma of family recipes and the sounds of friends fill the air. It’s a place where tradition is paramount and authentic family recipes are lovingly prepared and served to each customer with a smile. Charlie’s NEW restaurant is located at 15 West Cross Street and Hwy. 515 in East Ellijay. Reservations accepted and encouraged on weekends for parties of five or more. They can be reached at (706) 635-2205 or visit www.dineatcharlies. com.
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April/May 2011
Welcome to Ellijay, Georgia!
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A hometown C
by Betty Kossick
New In Woodstock by Betty Kossick
Main Street Woodstock
Main Street Woodstock, chartered in 2009, holds to a mission of building a better Woodstock community through fellowship, organization, design and promotion business development. Membership is always open to those with like desires for the community. The primary focus of the group is to support the revamping of downtown Woodstock as seen by recent improvements such as the streetscape project, the expansion of Woodstock City park, revamping of store front facades, construction of a new downtown parking lot, opening of new restaurants and other businesses. Added to all this, the hours of work that result in events that continue to attract large crowds. Main Street Woodstock attempts to build the best community in the region by developing more recreational opportunities, a dedication to the arts and culture, improved special events, added social networking, and attracting more businesses. The goal is to make Woodstock the best 42
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it can be. Members of Main Street Woodstock receive many benefits by attending networking meetings, accessing workshops, attending ribbon cuttings and groundbreakings, discounts to continuing education at Chattahoochee Technical College for business members, and property owners have access to façade improvement grants and other design services. Woodstock holds pride in the recent addition of many new businesses that enlarge the community, in addition to the existing ones: variety from restaurants to home décor to retail stores of all kinds. Residents and visitors from almost anywhere come to the special events such as holiday parades, farmer’s markets, Friday Night Live, Art and Wine Festivals. If you are moving or visiting or have an interest in opening your business in Woodstock, contact the Woodstock Visitor’s Bureau at Dean’s Store located at 8588 Main Street, Woodstock. For more information, call (770) 924-0406.
Lynn also offers both day and evening workshops about anything from organizing closets to window treatments and even book signings, with excellent customer turnouts. One of Lynn’s popular events is Girl’s Night Out where massages, self-tanning, skin care and delicious catering are a part of the evening. Giveaways are awarded to the ladies attending that evening and a portion of the proceeds are donated to the Cherokee County Family Violence Center. Lynn, with a heart for community, also sponsors one home annually for the Junior Service League of Woodstock Holiday Tour of Homes in November. Just look for the gigantic Adirondack chair out front! Check out House and Garden’s website www.houseandgardenboutique.com to sign up for newsletters, classes and press releases. Store hours are Mon-Sat (10-5:30), closed Sun. They are located at 103 Bowles Drive in Woodstock. For more information, call (678) 494-5800.
House and Garden Boutique
Trendy. Eclectic. It can only be House and Garden Boutique in Woodstock. Owned by innovative entrepreneur Lynn Paterson, the business began as an antique store, renting space to dealers but littleby-little she transformed it into a home décor and gift store frequented by particular shoppers. She features specialty gifts, wall and home décor such as Trapp, Tyler and Woodwick candles, holiday party glass, jewelry, personalized initialed gifts, private label bar soaps, Webkinz, handmade Adirondack chairs (starting at a surprising $99), and Feed on the Word dinnerware sold in single pieces and sets. In addition, Lynn offers affordable consultation services for interior design and window treatments.
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Maxwell’s Cigar Bar
Owner Harvey Burkin stands in front of his new store, Maxwell's Cigar Bar
It’s a place for cigar lovers to relax with friends. One of Woodstock’s newest gathering spots, Maxwell’s Cigar Bar (located behind Pure Tacqueria) offers specialty services unknown to the mountains until now. Harvey Burkin and his son, Ben, are proud to offer a specialty atmosphere in his unique cigar lounge. Open for just six months, some of Harvey and Ben’s unique services include a 200 square-foot walk-in humidor, plus individual private humidified lockers to rent, with a selection of fine cigars and accessories from all over the world. The selection includes craft beers and wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Port and Chardonnay. In addition, customers enjoy large flat screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. Maxwell’s Cigar Bar also touts a game room with electronic slot machines, And another thing--cushy leather chairs for simply lounging. The excellent air filtration system ensures there is no stale smoke. Harvey, himself, is a declared “cigar aficionado of more than 20 years.” He named the business after his beloved dog Maxwell (now deceased) who kept him good company at day’s end, sitting with him, while Harvey smoked his stogie, finished a glass of wine and listened to good jazz. Maxwell’s Cigar Bar is located at 460 Chambers Street in Woodstock. For more information call (770) 6272006 or visit www.maxwellscigarbar. com.
Pineapple Park
The pineapple is the international symbol of hospitality. With this in mind, the owners of Pineapple Park, are enjoying their location in historic downtown Woodstock—an extension of their business, Pacita’s Home Collection, in Cocoa, Florida. “Our slogan ‘Hospitality on Main Street’ is for 44
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our business in Woodstock,” says Pacita Wilson with 14 years experience in retail/decorating. Her husband Ken recently left the corporate world to join his wife in operating their family business. “Our services,” Pacita points out, “include full-service interior decorating, window treatments: consulting, which also entails color palette consulting and secondary home consulting (i.e. lake and mountain homes), remix design, staging, and turn key projects.” Pacita adds. “I always loved colors, bold things, and nice furniture.” Thus, Pacita’s a natural fit in the world of home interior design to help you with your décor needs. Pacita and Ken agree, “We think the most important aspect of what we do is to listen to the customer’s wants and needs! Our customers know that we will make every effort to find what they are looking for, and that staying within their budget is a priority for us. Georgia is something that we’ve prayed about and have wanted for years. Now we are here along with our sons Hunter, 10, and Porter, 8. We are so excited to see what is in store for us and this beautiful town.” The Wilson’s vision is to make each customer’s house a home. They are located at 8494 Main Street in Woodstock. For more information, call (678) 494-8494 or visit www.pineapplepark.com.
The Magnolia Thomas Restaurant
Traditional southern hospitality meets “new southern” cuisine at The Magnolia Thomas Restaurant, located in the historic “Olde Towne” downtown area of Woodstock, Ga. Nestled in a stately wooded setting, where dry creek beds, natural gardens and a gazebo centerpiece adorn the grounds, the restaurant boasts a bit of nostalgia and history. Named after one of the city’s matriarchs and
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Pineapple Park owner Pacita Wilson
uniquely bonded with the community, the restaurant is located in the historic replica and on the original grounds of the Magnolia Thomas estate, circa 1912. After you walk the winding pathway and enter through the inviting front porch, guests are greeted into an award winning fine dining experience…elegant white tablecloth settings and warm dark wood floors basked in candlelight and glow of
the fireplace creates a classy-butcomfortable ambiance. The menu by Chef Anthony Pickens gives a fresh, upscale approach to traditional southern dining…they call it "southern dining with a silver spoon treatment”. One of the area’s best wine selections pairs perfectly with the entrées (and don’t miss out on the chef ’s famous bread pudding or one of the other featured finales!). A friendly, professional and attentive staff provides impeccable service. Recently voted “Best Overall Restaurant” in the Atlanta market in Open Table’s Diner’s Choice Awards (they also were recognized in the top 10 “Best Ambiance”, “Best Service” and “Best Food” categories!). The Magnolia Thomas Restaurant is a neighborhood
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gem, perfect for a relaxing meal for two, a family dinner or a special celebration. The restaurant also holds a reputation for memorable catering events, ranging from storybook wedding receptions to flawless business meetings. Adjacent to the Woodstock Community Events Center, if the restaurant itself isn’t large enough for Chef Anthony Pickens your special event, the center can be utilized for up to 150 guests to enjoy indoor banquets and/ or the outdoor pavilion. The Magnolia Thomas Restaurant offers a unique (and affordable!) dining experience, close to home and far away from the hustle and bustle (and traffic!) of the city. They are located at 108 Arnold Mill Rd. in Woodstock. For more information, call (678) 445-5789 or visit www.magnoliathomas.com.
AlexnSis
What parent doesn’t want a quality resale store for kids clothes? AlexnSis is every parent’s dream store with new and gently used items for resale such as clothing (sizes new born to 12) strollers, pack n plays, bouncers, jumpers, walkers, exersaucers, etc. Maternity clothing is also accepted. Alyx Korner and Cis Lang are proprietors of this wellmaintained resale store, which is a sister store of one by the same name in Alpharetta— but they prefer the word encore to resale. They also accept any season items anytime of the year. An option not Co-owner Cis Lang of AlexnSis 46
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always offered by similar businesses. Unlike most consignment stores, they offer cash up front for the items you want to sell or if you wish to obtain store credit they will add 20 percent to your amount. Monogramming is also a service with a special touch, and local artisans create jewelry and artwork for children’s interests. The owners note that they are very particular about what they accept to encore. “Our quality is exceptional, as a result, and our prices are amazing,” Alyx says. AlexnSis is located at 470 Chambers Street in Woodstock. For more information call (770) 485-8085 or visit www. alexnsis.com.
Ipp’s Pastaria and Bar
Now that’s Italian! The Ippolito family’s impeccable reputation in the restaurant business, serving the greater Atlanta area since 1989, carries with it a grandfather’s recipe book and a father’s advice. The recipes are what bring diners back for more and the advice serves up a healthy appetite. It’s no wonder when the sauces and pizza dough are made from scratch daily. George Ippolito says,
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Welcome to Woodstock, Georgia!
“There is great pride in cooking what your mother taught you and making sure that tradition is not lost.” That’s a recipe for success. Passion is an ingredient for the best Italian cooking and the most recent of the six Ippolito restaurants, Ipp’s Pastaria and Bar, is built on a desire to be the best in the business. Old tradition and fresh new taste and atmosphere set the stage for both delicious dining and great service. The Ippolito’s task is to treat the customer like family. You haven’t really tasted Italian until you’ve eaten with Ipp’s. The deliciousness of their food from
sandwiches to pizzas to pastas makes your taste buds tingle just to talk about it—and the garlic rolls are to remember! As far as the Ipp’s desserts go, they will tell you up front, “You have to see our desserts to believe them.” Once you dine with Ipp’s they
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will see you back often. Ipp’s Pastaria and Bar is located at 8496 Main Street, Woodstock. For more information call (770) 516-6631.
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A arts C
n a C
l a v i t s e F n o t
by Farris Yawn
of the arts
their books, and the writing process. Writers featured will include those who have reached national acclaim and those who have published books of regional interest. Guests will have the opportunity to interact with individual speakers and enjoy discussion panels covering a variety of topics. Books may also be purchased on site and signed by the visiting authors. “Canton Festival of the Arts is a wonderful event bringing the best of the arts community out for a weekend of inspiration," says Farris Yawn of Yawn's Books & More, Canton’s only locally family-owned book store, and chairperson of the Literary Celebration for The Artist’s Market Canton Festival of the Arts. "It is fitting that those who The popular Artist’s Market will once again be the create with the pen and pad, or the computer keyboard, centerpiece of the Canton Festival of the Arts for 2011. should be part of the annual event and why our group of Held in Canton’s historic Brown Park on Saturday and Sunday, May 21-22, from 10am-5pm, the annual event dedicated volunteers is working feverishly to confirm an outstanding list of visiting authors that will be the envy of will offer visitors the rare opportunity to savor the works Literary Celebrations all over." Just a few of the authors of some of the most talented artists and craftspeople from who will be a part of the Literary Celebration are Terry Kay across the South. The Artist's Market typically attracts (who is in the Georgia Writer’s Hall of Fame), and who artisans whose fine art mediums include oil, watercolor, comes with a new book, Carmen Butcher, Greg Freeman, fine blown glass, elegant and whimsical jewelry, pottery, Jeff Schettler with Red Dog Rising, Rich Elwell & Barry sculpture and hand turned wood, among others. For L. Brown with their fantastic guide to Civil War sites in information about the Artist's Market contact Pat Gold at Georgia: Crossroads of Conflict, William Rawlings, Jr., portergolds@aol.com or 770-479-5443. Bill Starr, Olivia DeBelle Bryd, Janice Daugharty, Lowell Lawson, Raymond Atkins, Patti Pruitt, Niles Reddick, The Literary Celebration Jackie Cooper, Carolyn Burkholder, Kathi H. Hill, Shelton The South is rich with literary geniuses and their McKeever, Polly Balint, Elree B. Worley and Quentin stories touch not only their neighbors but also people M. Thomas. Watch the Arts Center web site and www. around the world. In an effort to inspire budding authors yawnsbooks.com as more exciting names are added, and for and celebrate those who have made it to the coveted “best more information about each author. seller” list, a committee of book lovers has formed once For more again to plan the information about the third annual Literary celebration, call Yawn’s Celebration as part of o Artist Market with Over 60 Exhibitors Books at (678) 880-1922 Canton Festival of the o Literary Celebration with Author Panels & Book Signings or the Cherokee County Arts. o Serenity Gardens Arts Center at (770) 704 Throughout o Camp Imagine offering hands-on Art Activities for Children 6244. the 2 day event, o Entertainment 20-30 Southern o Wine and Beer Garden Serenity Gardens authors will share o Taste Tempting Food Once again information about o 45 minutes from Atlanta o 20 minutes from Alpharetta or Marietta this year, Canton their background, how o Free Parking - Very Convenient to Festival Location Festival of the Arts will they got published, Canton Festival of the Arts is a signature event of the Cherokee Arts Council. This fine arts festival will include an artist market, youth art exhibit, literary festival, serenity gardens, musical entertainment, exceptional food and a hands-on area for children. Just 45 minutes from downtown Atlanta, Canton offers the charm of a historic river town with a view of the north Georgia mountains. The festival location is in Canton’s newly revitalized historic downtown district.
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April/May 2011
RED DOG RISING
by Farris Yawn, owner of Yawn's Books & More
As the Jeff Schettler says in his prologue, Red Dog Rising is at its core a story of a boy and his dog. Jeff Schettler tells the story of his life with Ronin, a remarkable bloodhound who touched many lives while working with law enforcement agencies. Jeff makes you feel the incredible emotions when your dog is not just your best friend, but also your trusted partner in a stressful, dangerous, and high-stakes job. The book also gives you an insight into the world of bloodhound trailing. The amount of training, patience, and pure physical stamina required of both dog and handler are astounding. I have a much deeper appreciation and respect for the people and animals that do this kind of work after reading this book. Jeff uses real cases he and Ronin worked to give insight into their relationship as well as into the methods and capabilities of a trailing team. He also uses these real life scenarios to explain the theories behind trailing work. If you're a dog lover or just like a good read, this is the perfect book. Jeff is an expert witness in the areas of scent evidence and trailing. He founded TacticalTrackerTeams and integrated it with the Georgia K9 National Training Center located in Canton, GA. He will be appearing (with several of his dogs) at the Canton Festival of the Arts on May 21 or 22. He donates the proceeds from the sale of this book to provide service dogs to needy children. For more information, visit www. yawnsbooks. com.
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feature a “Serenity Gardens” area. Serenity Gardens offers a fascinating learning opportunity for the whole family. It encompasses the art of gardening, canning, environmental protection (being green) and healthy living. In the past there have been some wonderful vendors. B. J. Weeks, renowned local beekeeper from Ball Ground, GA, will have his beehives on display. See bees up close, smell the honey as it is collected from the hives and hear how bees are used in the treatment of multiple sclerosis and arthritis. Peach State Growers, one of the nation’s largest orchid growers, is located in Cherokee County and will once again be a welcome addition to Serenity Gardens. Peach State Growers produces over 2000 orchids in their 1500 square foot facility and will be displaying a large variety of magnificent orchids for sale. Their goal is to delight visitors with the wide variety of plants and to assist them in their growing needs. Merrilily Gardens, a perennial favorite at the festival and another Cherokee County business, will exhibit locally grown hybrid daylilies, hostas, phlox, astilbe and ferns for sale. In addition to these temptations of the eye, they will offer their incomparable homemade jams, jellies, salsas, pickled cocktail green tomatoes and hot crunchy pickled okra. American Pillar Nursery from Woodstock will present their patented Arborvitae. This exciting new plant is ideal for landscape screening. Grown in both sun and shade, its nature is to quickly grow tall and narrow making it ideal for pools or added privacy for yards. 50
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The Cherokee Extension office of the University of Georgia will be represented by their “master gardeners” group. These trained experts will be available for advice on herb gardening, roses, deer resistant plants, native plants and water conservation in gardening. Bring plant leaves for problem diagnostics. Renowned gardener, Pamela Crawford, will be on hand to talk about her book, “Easy Gardening”. Bring pictures of your problem areas and Pamela will personally advise and design solutions for you. Cloud’s Supply is a family operated farm and landscape supply company in Canton. They will have a complete line of Purina feeds available (including wild bird seed), along with a variety of mulches, ground covers, fertilizers and landscaping Vers-Loc block retaining wall systems. Clear Conscience Natural Market supports Georgia Organics and will have a variety of local fruits and veggies. They will present selection of healthy food alternatives, wheat-free and gluten-free foods, organic and fair-trade coffees, bulk herbs and all-natural pet edibles. Their foods do not contain highfructose corn syrup, artificial sweeteners or hydrogenated oils (trans-fat). In addition, during the day they will be demonstrating simple yoga techniques. The annual plant sale is presented by the Cherokee Arts Council with generous donations from Buck Jones Nursery, Lady Slipper Nursery, Autumn Hill Nursery, Clouds Supply, Wal-Mart, Home Depot, Lowes, and author Pamela Crawford. Proceeds from the plant sale continue to promote the arts in Cherokee County and the many events sponsored by the Arts Center, including Camp Imagine for children. Schedules will be available the days of the festival for the various activities and presentations. If you are interested in painted plant containers, custom created marble coasters, handmade soaps, candles, scrubs, wind chimes, organic plants and foods, gardening supplies, gardening problems, or green and healthy living, Serenity Gardens is the spot for you at Canton Festival of Arts! If you are interested in becoming a vendor, please see our vendor application. Whether a vendor or guest, we look forward to seeing you! Appalachian Country
April/May 2011
A event C
g n i t a r b e l e C s n o s a e S e th
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hile springtime may be a hard act to follow, Big Canoe residents are equally blessed with the beauty of summer, winter and fall. On Saturday, May 21, the annual Big Canoe Chapel’s Women’s Guild Benefit Tour of Homes will explode in a showcase celebrating all four glorious seasons. Along with their own special decorative style, each of the four homes will praise one of the seasons with unique, distinctive and dramatic presentations by award winning flower and culinary designers. Whether you are touring summer and winter on the lake or fall and winter in the woods, you’ll be charmed by the seasonal touches of silk and natural twig designs by Terry Ledwell of Vines and Times, as well as the talented placement of seasonal accessories by the home owners themselves. Putting the icing on the cake will be the magnificently created faux cakes designed by Tania Jackson reflecting each home, its décor and its season. Shopping at the Tour of Homes Springtime Marketplace is almost as much fun as visiting the showcased homes. With dozens more vendors participating this year, there’s bound to be a treasure to tuck in your bag to take home. Speaking of bags, shoppers will be gifted with one-of-a-kind paper carry bags designed and hand-painted by local artisans.
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Keeping with the Tour theme, Seasons of Sharing, each bag will have a seasonal designed splashed across the front-summer, fall, winter, or spring. As with past years, the Broyles Center at the Big Canoe Chapel will bustle with marketplace excitement – furniture, jewelry, antiques, photography, fashion and accessories, quilts, woodworking, thousands of books, floral designs, glassware and home accessories. Vendors will be lakeside this year too. Inside the community Swim Club which is very close to the Broyles Center will be another shopper’s paradise
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with magnificent views and fresh breezes from the nearby lake. It will include the Big Canoe Artists Club as well as dozens of shopkeepers and craftspeople. Over at the Wildcat Pavilion, the Tour of Homes shuttle point, our visitors can stock up on fresh fruits, veggies, live plants and homemade jams and jellies at the Springtime Green and Garden Market. It will also include outdoor whimsies, wooden furniture, planters, yard ornaments. A true outdoor haven to welcome the lazy days of summer ahead! The Springtime Marketplace is a wonderful place to enjoy your day, share fabulous baked goods from out Bear Paw Bakery, as well as lunch from our Crazy Bear Café. Once again, it is the Big Canoe community sharing their homes, mountains, lakes, culinary and artistic creations even their books and jewels, most of all their hearts, heads and hands spending thousands of hours and earning over a million dollars over the years to benefit the many charities in Pickens and Dawson counties. Tickets for the Tour of Homes are $20. They are available online or at the day of the event. Enter at North Gate across from the North Gate Station. Tour is from 9 to 4 on May 21. For more information call 706-2683203 or visit bigcanoetour. org.
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SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY THURSDAY
BRMAA Cesar Fernandez African Photography Exhibit thru April 29 706.632.2144
April 3
4
10
5
12
11
1
Conference @BRMAA 706.632.2144
April Fool's Day
6
9
8
7
Blue Ridge Birdseed Hummingbird Seminar @ Harvest on Main DBR, 9-10am, 800-584-2473 Plein Air Event @ BRMAA 5-7pm 706.632.2144 Blue Ridge Mtn. Adventure Race, adventureracega.com Gardeners Plant Sale @ Cherokee Senior Ctr., 10-2
Elly Hobgood Watercolor Classes 1pm-5pm 678.880.2903
18
19
Jasper ArtFest Main St. Dean's Store 105th Celebration Woodstock
20
22
21
Jasper ArtFest Main St.
24
26
25
SUNDAY 1
MONDAY 2
TUESDAY
3
Earth Day
28
27 Administrative Professional's Day
Easter
WEDNESDAY THURSDAY 5 4
8
Mother's Day
15 Ball Ground Heritage Days Downtown 770.910.0776
22
FRIDAY
11
12
Elly Hobgood Watercolor Classes 1pm-5pm 678.880.2903
16
23
17
24
18
25
19
26
6
13
29
30
Memorial Day
April/May 2011
14
Ball Ground Heritage Days Downtown 770.910.0776
Canton Farmer's Market, Cannon Park Main St.
Bluegrass Festival @ Lake Nottely 706.835-9230
20
Bluegrass Festival @ Lake Nottely 706.835-9230
21
Big Canoe Tour of Homes 706.268.3203 Canton Festival of Arts Brown Park 10am-5pm 678-880-1922 Canton Farmer's Market, Cannon Park Main St.
Armed Forces Day
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28 Canton Farmer's Market, Cannon Park Main St. Arts in the Park Blue Ridge 706.632.2144
4th Friday Stroll Downtown Canton 6-9pm
Arts in the Park Blue Ridge 706.632.2144
SATURDAY 7
GAHA Live Auction 5pm Cherokee Indian Festival & Mother's Day PowWow 770-735-6275 Woodstock Market & Show 770.517.7771 Woodstock Market & Show Kentucky Derby Day (5k 770.517.7771 run,Mother's Day Chocolate Walk) DC 770.704.1548 N.Ga. Chamber CARES Cooking Symphony@Blairsville Challenge Jasper United 706.867.9444 Methodist 706.253.4777
Jasper Main St. Cruise In 4-8pm, 706.692.2031
31 Definition Index:
GAHA: Gilmer Arts & Heritage (Ellijay) BRMAA: Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association (Blue Ridge) DC: Downtown Canton; DBR: Downtown Blue Ridge; DE:Downtown Ellijay; DJ: Downtown Jasper; DW: Downtown Woodstock
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Arts & Events
Canton Festival of Arts Brown Park 10am-5pm 678-880-1922
10
30
N.Ga. Pregnancy Ctr. Walk for Life 706.253.6303
May 9
23
Gilmer Christian Learning Ctr. 5K RACE 8am @ River Park 706.635.7100 Easter Egg Hunt & Festival Downtown Canton 1-4pm 770.704.1548 Jasper Main St. Cruise In 4-8pm, 706.692.2031
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Elly Hobgood Watercolor Classes 1pm-5pm 678.880.2903
Cinco de Mayo
22nd Cherokee Indian Festival & Mother's Day PowWow 770-735-6275 Woodstock Market & Show 770.517.7771 N.Ga. Chamber Symphony@Dahlonega 706.867.9444
16
15
14
13
Plein Air Spring Event @ BRMAA 5-7pm 706.632.2144
17
SATURDAY 2
Woodstock Market & Show Woodstock Market & Show 770.517.7771 770.517.7771 1st Mtn. Cruisers @ 2011 Writer's Quick Burger, Tate Conference @BRMAA 706.632.2144 2011 Writer's
BRMAA Artist in Residence Nikki Davidson's work displayed thru June 24 706.632.2144
Woodstock Market & Show 770.517.7771
FRIDAY
Business Index
Adult Day Center The Verandah Adult Day Center.............................. 706-253-5099 Alterations DLC Alterations....................................................... 706-276-2490 Antiques & Collectibles Antique Village Mall............................................... 678-493-0847 Blackberry Mtn. Antiques & Collectibles....................706-636-2716 Golly Miss Ollie...................................................... 706-253-4858 Memories at Misty Hollow....................................... 706-276-1644 Sycamore Crossing.................................................706.632.3366 Arts & Events Big Canoe Tour of Homes.....................................706-268-3203 Blue Ridge Mtn. Arts Association............................. 770-632-2144 Canton Festival of Arts..........................................770-704-6244 Elly Hobgood.......................................................... 678-880-2903 Kowanu Crafts........................................................ 706-692-7481 Attorneys John E. Mahan Atty at Law...................................... 706-635-5955 Automotive Ellijay Tire.............................................................. 706-635-2322 Moore Truck Stuff....................................................706-253-4889 Banking Community & Southern Bank................................... 706-276-8000 United Community Bank.......................................... 706-635-5411 Bookstores Cowan's Book Nook............................................... 706-515-8700 Yawn's Books & More.............................................678-880-1922 Builders Lakota Cove/Tennessee Log Homes.......................... 770-893-3495 Renner Builders & Remodelers.................................706-301-5609 Witt Building Company...........................................706-889-2480 Building Supplies Millwood Specialty Flooring................................... 706-276-3300 Business Brokerage Crown Business....................................................... 888-770-3369 Cabin Rentals Stressbuster Vacation Rentals................................... 706-635-3952 Children's Clothing AlexnSis................................................................ 770-485-8085 Majestic Child.....................................................706-632-8327 Cigars Maxwells Cigar Bar.............................................770-627-2006 Cleaning Services Gloria's Cleaning...................................................678.677.9670 Squeaky Clean Windows........................................ 706-692-9013 Clothing & Accessories ACE Hardware.......................................................706-635-2236 Daisy Accessories & Boutique..................................706-253-6996 Paula’s Wardrobe................................................706-946-6405 Posh on Main Street.............................................706-258-2237 Computer Repairs & Services 21st Century Computer Services..............................706-692-1716 GhostNet Inc.......................................................... 706-253-1013 Dental Services Jasper Dental Associates..........................................706-692-2611 Jasper Family Dentistry............................................706-692-2646 Mountain Dental Associates..................................... 706-515-3500 Education Pleasant Hills Montessori School............................. .706-636-3354 Elevators Blue Moose Elevators............................................. .866-797-5438 Florists Artistic Creations.....................................................706-692-0044 Glass Creation & Repair Daylight Glass.....................................................404-786-5457 Hardware ACE Hardware.........................................................770-635-2236 Health Supplies Natural Market Place................................................706-253-6933 Heating & Air Cool-Tech HVAC......................................................770-737-2525 Home & Office Decor ASAP Upholstery...................................................770-590-8089 54
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Alexandra's Accents.............................................770-617-1980 Chamberhouse.....................................................770-479-9115 Chocolate Moose.................................................706-265-1990 Fabric and Fringe.....................................................770-794-8106 Fun Finds and Designs...............................................770-704-0448 House and Garden Boutique..................................678-494-5800 Interiors................................................................. .706-276-7000 Lakota Cove......................................................... ..770-893-3495 Mercantile at Blue Ridge.......................................706-632-6636 Moore Furniture....................................................706-692-2031 North Georgia Furniture........................................706-635-4202 PJ’s Rusted Buffalo................................................706-515-8111 Pineapple Park....................................................678-494-8494 Unique Kitchens...................................................... 706-253-6600 Wrapsody in Blue...................................................706-258-2700 Indoor/Outdoor Activities Action Game Exchange...........................................706-253-1150 Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad...................................706-632-8724 Camp Highland......................................................678-393-0300 Jewelry & Repair Daisy Accessories & Boutique...................................706-253-6996 North Georgia Diamond.......................................... 706-515-1551 Kitchen Supplies Unique Kitchens....................................................... 706-253-6600 Knitting Supplies Strings & Stitches..................................................... 706-698-5648 Landscaping Outdoor Lighting and Landscaping...........................706-889-5603 Lodging Chamomile Retreat...................................................404-909-9303 Fernbrook Inn..........................................................404-272-0080 Woodbridge Inn & Lodge.........................................706-253-6293 Medical Emerging Healthcare..............................................706-253-2290 First Mountain Medical........................................706-253-3737 New Beginning Therapeutics...................................706-253-6287 Piedmont Mountainside Hospital.............................. 706-692-2441 Mortgage Companies Wells Fargo Mortgage............................................ 706-253-2920 Mountain Communities Covered Bridge Estates............................................706-669-4177 Office Supplies One Source Business Products................................... 706-276-8273 Outdoor Decor & Supplies Blue Ridge Birdseed Company.................................. 706-258-BIRD Mountain Ridge Garden Center.............................706-698-2815 Pharmacy Jasper Drugs............................................................706-692-6427 Photographer Appalachian Photography........................................ 706-276-6991 Photocentric Photography......................................706-635-PHOTO Plumbing Heritage Plumbing.................................................. 770-735-3855 Recreational Equipment & Supplies Blue Ridge Mountain Outfitters.............................706-258-3232 North Georgia Mountain Outfitters........................... 706-698-HIKE Restaurants 61 Main.................................................................706-253-7289 IPPS...................................................................770-664-7000 L & L Beanery..........................................................706-632-3242 Charlie's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria...................... 706-635-2205 Christy Lees........................................................706-946-5100 Deli Junction........................................................... 706-635-5077 Harvest on Main..................................................706-946-6164 Magnolia Thomas Restaurant....................................678-445-5789 Poole's Barbeque.....................................................706-635-4100 Shane's Rib Shack.........................................706-635-RIBS (7427) Toccoa Riverside Restaurant.................................... .706-632-7891 Woodbridge Inn & Lodge.........................................706-253-6293 Salons Magic Touch Hair Salon...........................................706-635-5325 Sporting Supplies D&D Outdoors........................................................ 706-253-2946
Appalachian Country
April/May 2011
April/May 2011
Appalachian Country
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