Scoop 2014

Scoop Get the

everything you need to know about living in White County

2014-2015

a supplement to the White County News

Numbers to Know

EMERGENCIES ONLY ................................................Dial 9-1-1 PUBLIC SAFETY White County Sheriff ’s Office ............................... 706-865-6370 Cleveland Police Department ............................... 706-348-7078 Helen Police Department ...................................... 706-878-2722 Cleveland Fire Department ................................... 706-865-0617 Helen Fire Department .......................................... 706-878-3676 White County Fire Department ........................... 706-865-3855 Emergency Management ....................................... 706-865-9500 E-9-1-1 Non-emergency ........................................ 706-865-1224 OTHER SERVICES Animal Control ....................................................... 706-219-2689

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Building Inspector .................................................. 706-865-6496 Burn Permits ........................................................... 706-865-7813 Chamber of Commerce ......................................... 706-865-5356 City of Cleveland ..................................................... 706-865-2017 City of Helen ............................................................ 706-878-2613 Clerk of Court ......................................................... 706-865-2613 Commissioners’ Office ........................................... 706-865-2235 Department of Family and Childrens Services ............................. 706-865-3128 District Attorney ..................................................... 706-865-3306 Environmental Health ........................................... 706-348-7698 Extension Office ..................................................... 706-865-2832 Health Department ............................................... 706-865-2191 Library, Cleveland .................................................. 706-865-5572 Library, Helen ......................................................... 706-878-2438 Magistrate Court .................................................... 706-865-6636 Post Office, Cleveland ............................................ 706-865-4511 Post Office, Helen ................................................... 706-878-2422 Post Office, Sautee Nacoochee .............................. 706-878-2712 Probate Court .......................................................... 706-865-4141 Senior Center .......................................................... 706-865-4097 Superior Court Clerk ............................................. 706-865-2613 Tax Assessor’s Office ............................................... 706-865-5328 Tax Commissioner’s Office .................................... 706-865-2225 Voter Registrar ........................................................ 706-865-7812 White County Family YMCA ............................... 706-865-5275 White County Schools ........................................... 706-865-2315

Table of Contents

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10

2

Numbers to Know

10

5

White County Something magical about living here

Best of Both Worlds Edna Holcomb reflects

16

Settling In

7

About the Cover Nancy Ackerman’s cub bear

18

White County Map

19

Federal & State Officials

8

White County’s Gold A statue is erected to pay tribute to our mining history

20

White County Government Meeting times and appointed boards

Scoop

26 22

24

26

32

City Governments City of Cleveland and City of Helen officials

32

Recreation Opportunities

36

Calendar of Events

Board of Education Contacts for public schools; colleges and private schools

43

Churches

44

Organizations

45

Volunteering

One Man’s Castle Robert Marthai has built a castle wall

Get the

Welcome to the 2014 edition of Get the Scoop.

This magazine is about everything White County. This year’s edition is filled with lots of great reading.

Our White County News staff has put together a wonderful mix of stories, photographs and advertising. It’s all designed with you in mind.

Scoop is also filled with plenty of valuable, updated information for both newcomers and longtime residents.

Billy Chism White County is our home. The natural beauty of our mountains and valleys is unsurpassed. But it’s our people who truly make White County a wonderful place to live, work and play.

Happy reading!

16 Get the Scoop is a special publication of the

White County News

13 E. Jarrard Street, Cleveland, GA 30528 Telephone: 706-865-4718 • Fax: 706-865-3048 publisher@whitecountynews.net • www.whitecountynews.net This publication is copyrighted by Community Newspapers, Inc. of Athens, Ga. Cindy Mullinax, office manager • Amy Allen, production Mark Turner, sports editor Linda Erbele, reporter • Debbie Gilbert, reporter Heather Howell, advertising Billy Chism, editor and publisher Alan NeSmith, regional publisher 3

Old Courthouse Museum

• Monthly programs open and free to the public • A living history museum • A military room

“On the Square in Cleveland” whitecountyhistoricalsociety.com Thursday-Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Admission is FREE

• Resource and research room for family histories • Gold miner statue

Pottery Comes to Town Saturday, Sept. 27 • 9am-3pm Demonstrations, collectible pottery and lots of new items by the region’s leading folk potters including the Meaders family

Folk Pottery MuSeuM

Discover the hidden voices of almost 200 years at the...

Honoring Northeast Georgia’s past, present and future in The Arts – The Folk Pottery Museum, The Heritage Site, Center Gallery, Center Gift Shop and Center Theater For information, please call 706-878-3300 or visit www.snca.org 4

Visit the only museum in the Southeast dedicated exclusively to this unique art and its history.

Visit us online for calendar of events

FOLK

p ot t e ry

283 Highway 255 North, Sautee Nacoochee, GA at the OF NORTHEAST GEORGIA 706-878-3300 Sautee Nacoochee Center www.folkpotterymuseum.com

three friends

Writer and photographer Emory Jones, left, entertains Mark Johnson, center, and Garrison Baker.

White County Something magical about living here

A

by EMORY JONES

FEW YEARS BACk, WHEN WE LIVED IN Atlanta, my wife, Judy, and I drove through Cleveland on a rainy Sunday evening. We were heading home from Asheville, and once we got to White County, decided it was too late to visit any friends or relatives. It was after dark, the town was empty, and we only passed three or four cars on U.S. 129; no one was expecting us, so who would know?

But when we got home, our answering machine held three messages – two from relatives, one from a friend.

“Can’t believe you came through Cleveland without stopping.”

“My own son drove within a mile of my house and didn’t come to see me. I never thought I’d see the day.”

And from my favorite uncle: “You’re gonna get a whipping next time I see you.”

Who spotted us and how word spread about our failure to at least honk remains a mystery. But the fact that folks cared that much made a deep impression on me. Nobody in Atlanta felt any great concern about us driving by them. That’s when I first understood White County is vastly different from Atlanta or any other big town.

I grew up here, but that was a long time ago. Back then, “the cows got out,” was an acceptable excuse for missing school.

There was no place to go that we shouldn’t, and the first baby of the New Year was often born in early February.

I made that up about the New Year’s baby, but my point is this: White County was great then, and it’s even better today.

The place has changed some, but one thing hasn’t – White County is full of people who care about each other. We have Yonah Mountain, the Chattahoochee National Forest, Helen, Cleveland, Sautee Nacoochee, the Chattahoochee River, creeks, churches and lots of other things, but it’s the teachers, historians, artists, ministers, writers, entrepreneurs and just plain folks who make White County what it is.

People here reach out. If you don’t believe it, just listen for the chainsaws after a tornado or a bad thunderstorm blows through. They’ll get going in about 15 minutes as neighbors help each other clean up the mess.

When someone is sick, people respond. When you eat out, you know folks. I love it that a trip to the grocery store is a social event. I love the sense of community here, and I love how this place feels like family. → Small-town people are the friendliest anywhere, and 5

there’s something magical about living in one – especially this one. Ironically, a small town makes you part of something bigger; it lets you connect. There are drawbacks; it’s hard to take a long walk without someone stopping to see if you need a ride, and if you get a DUI, it’ll be in the paper.

Living in Atlanta for 37 years may have slanted my view, and I know small-town living isn’t for everyone. For one thing, you have to act right, but thankfully that’s not a problem for most folks.

I know some prefer life in a big town, and I understand that, but I like knowing my neighbors.

I enjoyed my time in Atlanta, but there is a comfort here I didn’t find there.

And the best part: There’s no charge for parking at our airport. ■ Natural beauty

Unicoi Lake reflects nearby trees, with Smith Mountain in the distance.

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6

David E. Barrett Attorney at Law

545 Helen Hwy., Ste. D Cleveland, GA 30528

706-865-9200 30 Years Experience

Then Nancy got a text message: “Are you ready?” She knew it was from her friend, and she realized she was ready to move north.

“Everything just fell into place,” Nancy said. She was soon living in Helen.

Not long afterwards, she met her future husband, Rick Ackerman. In 2013, she became president of the Helen Arts & Heritage Center and is continuing in that capacity in 2014.

“This is the most beautiful place I could have ever landed,” she said.

Now living at Innsbruck, she couldn’t believe all the bears around her house.

“We thought it was so incredible to see them,” she said. “The cubs would straddle a limb and just hang there, with their arms hanging down.”

She said she “loves to paint with bright colors,” and she loves painting animals in a whimsical way.

“I just free-handed the picture I entered for the Scoop cover,” she said. “I did the tree first with a brush, and then painted the bear with a palette knife, using bright colors. I had done other bear paintings. You never know how each one will turn out.” ■ her blue cub bear

About the Cover

Nancy Ackerman shows her cover art at the Helen Arts & Heritage Center.

Nancy Ackerman paints with lots of bold color

ANCY ACkERMAN BELIEVES IT WAS FATE that brought her to Helen and White County.

Since she arrived in October 2010, her life has taken several unexpected but welcome turns.

“Life is good. I’m telling you, it’s just been amazing,” she said.

After getting divorced in 2009, she had the urge to take up painting again. She had dabbled in it some 15 years earlier, but “I was raising kids (a son and a daughter), and just put it aside.”

“I found all my brushes and art supplies, and told a friend I wanted to take up painting,” she said. “She told me she read in the newspaper that day that a painting class was starting up at the Crisp County Art Alliance. So I signed up. I probably took classes for there for about four months.”

It was a text message that got the ball rolling on her journey to Helen.

“I have a good friend who lives in Cleveland – kathy Henderson. She is retired Georgia State Patrol, like me, and her husband, David, is retired from Game and Fish. She had been telling me that I ought to move here. She knew I loved the mountains, and that my parents used to vacation up here.”

032014-63345

N

by BILLY CHISM

7

White County’s Gold Largest gold nugget discovered east of the Mississippi River was found in 1889 in White County; first gold in 1828

T

by JudY LOvELL

HE FIRST DISCOVERY OF GOLD IN Georgia occurred in 1828 on Alabama Branch, a tributary of Dukes Creek in Nacoochee Valley in what is now White County, originally Habersham County.

A slave, who came from North Carolina into Georgia with the Logan family, had watched gold being mined in his home state, where it had been done since 1803.

Along Dukes Creek he recognized some gravel bars and rock formations, which he perceived to be similar to those he had observed in gold mining areas in North Carolina.

Using a black boiler, he tested some of the gravel along the creek and found glittering flecks of gold and some small nuggets.

John Withrow made a similar discovery at about the same time on property also in (then) Habersham County. Shortly afterward, gold was discovered in Indian territory between the Etowah and Chestatee Rivers in Lumpkin County, and “The Rush” was on.

The largest gold nugget discovered east of the Mississippi River was found by John Phillip Thurmond of White County on April 14, 1889, at the Hamby Mines in northern White County.

The nugget weighed 504 pennyweights and four grams, which is about 25.5 ounces. The price of gold at $35 per ounce would have made it worth approximately $88. The nugget was once in a museum in London, England.

Another large nugget was found in White County about six decades later. Seventeen-year-old Jere Chambers found a natural gold piece on a road near his home 4 miles north of Cleveland in September 1952.

The road had recently been paved with gravel from Dukes Creek when Chambers picked up “a beautiful rock.” State geologists weighed the nugget at 89.2 pennyweights. Its worth at the time was about $156.

Gold was mined commercially in this part of the state for more than 100 years. Northeast Georgia grew rapidly as eager miners with gold fever were attracted to the area from places ranging from Charleston, S.C., to New York, and even from other countries such as Canada, England and Scotland.

8

After most of the gold was extracted, several of these miners remained and left their mark. Many of their descendents continue to make White County what it is today.

Because of interest in the history of White County gold and due to donations from a local citizen and White County Commissioners, the City of Cleveland is proud to boast of a bronze gold miner sculpture on the grounds of the old courthouse museum to commemorate this history and to attract tourists.

A bit more history White County was formed by an act of the Georgia Legislature in 1857.

Shortly thereafter a courthouse was built and lots were surveyed for the town of Cleveland. You will find that survey point in the old courthouse museum.

The City of Helen was developed as a result of the lumber industry, which came to the area about 1913. Thousands of board-feet of timber were cut in the mountains and shipped by the new railroad – Gainesville and Northwestern.

Another interesting fact about White County: the movie, I’d Climb the Highest Mountain, was filmed here. It brought visitors from all over the United States to the area.

Most importantly, many local citizens had small speaking and non-speaking parts in the movie.

And thanks to the well-known

and beautiful Nacoochee Valley, Yonah Mountain, Meaders family pottery and other local folk pottery, Xavier Roberts’ BabyLand General Hospital and the Alpine Village of Helen, White County continues to be one of the most visited

New gold miner statue

White County Historical Society erected a gold miner statue on July 9 on the north side of the historic courthouse (shown below).

counties in Georgia.

For more tidbits of White County history, visit the old courthouse museum and attend the history programs the first Thursday of each month. You are always welcome! ■

A peaceful setting

White County’s mountains and valleys provide the perfect place to live, work and play.

9

enjoying retirement

Edna Holcomb loves to travel, but also enjoys her home in Cleveland.

The Best of Both Worlds Edna Holcomb reflects on living and working in White County

I

by dEBBIE GILBERT

T’S NOT UNCOMMON TO meet folks in White County who were born here and have never lived anywhere else.

But you’ll also find a growing number of residents who came here as adults, by choice, because they appreciated the quality of life the county has to offer.

Edna Holcomb’s story is a unique combination of both scenarios.

Technically, she isn’t “from” White County. But she grew up off Ga. 17 near Helen, just across the line into Habersham County.

And she spent her childhood straddling the two worlds. Her uncle, Millard Holcomb, operated Holcomb 10

Bros. Hardware on the Cleveland square in White County for many years.

From the beginning, Edna was a studious child, detail-oriented and eager to learn. After graduating from the old North Habersham High School in Clarkesville in 1959, she immediately enrolled at Piedmont College and tackled a double major of English and history.

She then moved on to the University of Georgia, where she earned a master’s degree in English education in 1967.

“While I was attending grad school, I worked as chief deputy to the clerk of court in Habersham County,” she said.

“After I got my master’s, Piedmont College came calling. They wanted → me to teach.”

Pottery from around the world

During her travels to other states and other countries, Edna has brought home pieces of pottery that remind her of the places she visited.

Above: These pieces came from Europe and other far-flung places, but the middle piece was created by an old friend, the late Bob Owens of Cleveland.

Middle: When Edna retired in 2011 from TruettMcConnell College, the school gave her a Lanier Meaders vase (center). She also has a pitcher by Whelchel Meaders (left).

Below: A vase from Greece, center, sits among some of her favorite pieces. The blue vase, left, came from Scotland. The piece with buffaloes came from the Western United States.

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Original photograph

This photograph, taken in 1862 and in its original frame, is Edna Holcomb’s great-grandfather, William Jackson Holcomb of Habersham County. He joined the Confederate Army in July 1862, and died in January 1863 at age 34 in a Confederate hospital in Ringgold. Edna inherited the photograph from her parents, Hub and Lou Emma Holcomb.

For the next four years, Edna taught English at Piedmont, until she developed nodules on her vocal cords and had to take a break from teaching.

So when the Georgia Baptist Convention offered her a job in Atlanta, she took it – only to realize she felt like a fish out of water.

“I lived in Smyrna for 14 months, and I didn’t like it,” she said.

The noise, traffic and frenetic pace of metro Atlanta made her homesick for the 12

Northeast Georgia mountains.

She accepted a job at the Habersham credit bureau in Cornelia, where she worked for four years. Still, she yearned to get back into an academic setting.

Through a program run by TruettMcConnell College, Edna taught English to prison inmates in Alto from 1973 to 1976. Then a full-time position became available at the Truett campus in Cleveland, and Edna was hired as the college’s new registrar. In charge of duties

such as scheduling classes and keeping grade records, she played an important role in the lives of the students.

The year 1976 brought another significant change to Edna’s own life: She finally moved to Cleveland and became an official White County resident.

As the decades wore on, Edna wore many hats at Truett.

“I was with the college a total of 38 years, until 2011,” she said. “During that time, I think I occupied about six

different positions, with the last one being alumni director.”

Working at Truett was more than just a job for Edna. “I enjoyed my time there,” she said. “I felt that Christian education was my calling.”

Truett-McConnell offers a Bible-based education, and its mission is reflected in every aspect of the curriculum and campus life.

Because Edna did not have children of her own, the Truett faculty and staff were like family to her, and she typically put in 10 or 12 hours a day.

“I couldn’t have worked those hours if I had a family,” she said.

After retiring from Truett, she was still filled with energy and needed a way to channel it. So she wrote a history book, The Time That Was: The Habersham Mills Story. It chronicled the textile company that had once been one of the area’s major employers.

“My brother-in-law grew up there (because his family used to own the mill),” she said. “That’s how I got interested in it.”

Without family obligations, Edna has also been able to pursue her keen interest in travel. She has been to all 50 → states, most of the Canadian

home, sweet home

Edna Holcomb’s living room is bright and cheerful, a reflection of Edna.

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A story close to home

Edna Holcomb’s first book was published in 2012.

Functional Stoneware Locally Made & Fair Trade Gifts

thewillowspottery.com 7273 S. Main Street • Helen • 706-878-1344

The Cottage Vineyard & Winery Tasting Room with Mountain Views Wedding Planning • Concert Venue

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Mountain Laurel Antique Mall provinces, and all of the countries in western Europe.

She generally travels with her sister, Carol Stribling, along with a group of friends.

“I’ve kept extensive journals of every trip,” she said. And though it’s difficult to choose a favorite destination, Edna has a special fondness for Niagara Falls.

“It’s one of the most spectacular sights I’ve ever seen,” she said. “The power of the water is incredible.”

Of course, one of the perks of travel is to be able to come back home to beautiful White County. When she’s in town, Edna stays active at Cleveland First Baptist Church, serving on several committees and teaching a Sunday school 14

class.

“I started the class from scratch, preparing my own materials straight from Scripture,” she said.

And when she prays, she thanks God for (among many other things) her adopted hometown.

“This is a perfectly located area,” she said. “If you want to hike in the mountains, you can be there within 30 minutes. If you need good medical treatment, you can go in the other direction and be in Gainesville in 30 minutes.”

For Edna Holcomb, White County provided the best of all possible worlds: a fulfilling professional career that didn’t require her to live in a big city.

“There’s no place I’d rather be than here,” she said. ■

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Settling In

Information you need to know about moving to White County • Automobile Tags/Registration New Georgia residents must obtain a Georgia license tag within 30 days of relocating. Required are either current registration, title, name and address of lien holder or copy of lease agreement, as well as proof of Georgia insurance.

Georgia law requires that all auto tags be renewed within 30 days before the owner’s birthday. Tags expire at midnight on the birthday of the person listed first on the registration as owner.

Owners of older cars also have to pay county ad valorem tax based on the assessed value of the vehicle. Cars purchased in Georgia after March 1, 2013, are exempt from the annual “birthday” tax. Instead, the owner pays a one-time-only title tax.

For fast, convenient service, mail your tag renewal and application to the White County Tax Commissioner’s Office at 16

113 North Brook Street in Cleveland, 706-865-2225. Office hours are 8 a.m.4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. Automobile renewals may also be done online at www.whitecounty.net.

• Cable & Satellite TV Both cable TV and satellite TV are available from Windstream at 706-8652442. Satellite service is also available from DIRECTV, 855-678-2834, and Dish Network, 706-865-1956.

• Driver’s License Information Within 30 days of moving to the state, newcomers are required to have a valid Georgia driver’s license. Those with a valid out-of-state license need only pass an eye exam, while first-time drivers also must take a driving test and a written test.

New federal rules require Georgia drivers to bring the following documents

to verify their identity: birth certificate or passport; proof of Social Security number; two proofs of address (such as a utility bill or lease agreement); and proof of name change if needed (such as when the applicant has recently married).

Apply for a license at any of these Georgia Department of Driver Services locations: 1010 Aviation Blvd. S.W. in Gainesville, 62 Doyle Street in Toccoa, or 37 Chase Drive in Blairsville. Hours of operation vary; call 1-866-754-3687 for information or go online to www.dds. ga.gov.

• Electricity Depending on where you live, your electricity will be provided by one of these two utilities.

Georgia Power, 888-660-5890, located in Cleveland, serves most of Cleveland and Helen.

865-4362). High-speed fiber-optic broadband is also available to some residents; call Habersham EMC to find out if you live within the service area.

• Mobile Homes All mobile homes in Georgia must display a current mobile-home decal.

The annual decals, which are provided upon payment of ad valorem taxes each year, may be obtained from the mobile home section of the White County Tax Commissioner’s office at 113 North Brook Street (706-865-2225).

• Natural Gas For natural-gas service, you must go to the Georgia Public Service Commission website, www.psc.state.ga.us, and choose a marketer.

• Post Offices Cleveland (30528) Louise Nix, postmaster 116 Ga. 75 North 706-865-4511 Helen (30545) 7976 S. Main Street 706-878-2422 Sautee Nacoochee (30571) 93 Ga. 255 North 706-878-2712 Habersham Electric Membership Corp., 706-865-4362, also located in Cleveland, serves most of the unincorporated White County area.

• Homestead Exemptions Each resident of White County is eligible for a $2,000 exemption on the property they own and occupy as their permanent residence on Jan. 1 of the taxable year. The $2,000 is deducted from the assessed (40 percent of the fairmarket value) value of the property for state, county and school tax purposes.

Application for homestead exemption can be made year-round; however, it must be made by April 1 of the tax year in which the exemption is sought. All applications for exemptions must be made at the White County Assessor’s office at 1241 Helen Highway, 706-8655328.

• Internet The two main local providers of Internet service are Windstream (706865-2442) and Habersham EMC (706-

• Sanitation For pickup of trash, Cleveland city residents should call Cleveland City Hall, 706-865-2017. Helen residents should call Helen City Hall, 706-878-2733.

The White County Transfer Station, 706-865-3716, is available for residents outside the city limits to use. Disposal fees for household trash start at $2 per bag. The transfer station is located at 670 Industrial Blvd. in Cleveland. Their hours are 9 a.m.-4:45 p.m. MondayFriday and 9 a.m.-3:45 p.m. Saturday.

Recycling is available at the White County Convenience Center, 519 Hulsey Road, 706-865-7655. Hours are Monday and Wednesday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Materials accepted include corrugated cardboard, aluminum, tin cans, newsprint and magazines, and plastics #1 and #2. No glass.

• Telephone Landline telephone service is provided

by Windstream, 800-347-1991.

• Voter Registration United States citizens 18 years or older who have no felony convictions are encouraged to register to vote. Register at least 30 days prior to election at the White County Registrar’s Office, located in the Mauney building, 1241 Helen Highway (706-865-7812). You may also register at White County public libraries.

• Voting White County residents must vote in their designated precincts. Voters must present a driver’s license or other valid photo ID to document that they are a resident of the county.

For any questions about election procedures, contact the White County elections superintendent at 706-8654141.

Listed below are the locations of voting precincts in White County (to find out which precinct you should go to, check your voter registration card): • Blue Creek – Blue Creek Baptist Fellowship Hall, Ga. 255 South at Duncan Bridge Road • Blue Ridge – Mt. Pleasant Methodist Church Fellowship Hall • Helen – Helen City Hall • Mossy Creek – Mossy Creek Methodist Church Fellowship Hall • Mt. Yonah – Cleveland First Baptist Church • Nacoochee – Sautee Nacoochee Center, Ga. 255 North • Robertstown – Center Baptist Church, Elrod Road • Shoal Creek – Shoal Creek community building, Shoal Creek Church Road • Tesnatee – Mt. Yonah Baptist Church, Asbestos Road • Town Creek – Town Creek Community Center, Town Creek Church Road • White Creek – Pioneer RESA office, Ga. 254 • Water & Sewer Residents living in the Cleveland city limits should contact Cleveland City Hall for water and sewer services, 706-8652017. Helen residents should contact the Helen City Hall, 706-878-2733.

County residents should contact the White County Water Authority, 706865-0788. Sewer services generally are not available outside the city limits. For septic-tank permits, call White County Environmental Health, 706-348-7698.

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Federal & State Officials U.S. Sen. Saxby Chambliss 416 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Phone: 202-224-3521 DISTRICT OFFICE: 100 Galleria Parkway, Suite 1340 Atlanta, GA 30339 Phone: 770-763-9090 www.chambliss.senate.gov

U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson 120 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 Phone: 202-224-3643 DISTRICT OFFICE: One Overton Park 3625 Cumberland Blvd., Suite 970 Atlanta, GA 30339 Phone: 770-661-0999 www.isakson.senate.gov U.S. Rep. Doug Collins 513 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Phone: 202-225-9893 DISTRICT OFFICE: 111 Green Street SE Gainesville, GA 30501 Phone: 770-297-3388 www.dougcollins.house.gov

Gov. Nathan Deal 203 State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334 Phone: 404-656-1776 www.gov.georgia.gov

Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle 240 State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334 Phone: 404-656-5030 www.ltgov.georgia.gov

State Sen. Steve Gooch Senate District 51 (represents White, Dawson, Fannin, Gilmer, Lumpkin, Union Counties and portions of Forsyth and Pickens counties) 421-C State Capitol Atlanta, GA 30334 Phone: 404-656-9221 steve.gooch@senate.ga.gov DISTRICT OFFICE: P.O. Box 600 Dahlonega, GA 30533 State Rep. Stephen Allison District 8 (represents White County voters in Blue Ridge, Helen, Tesnatee, Town Creek and Robertstown precincts along with Rabun Towns, and Union counties) 504 Coverdell Legislative Office Building Atlanta, GA 30334 Phone: 404-656-0188 stephen.allison@house.ga.gov DISTRICT OFFICE: 90 Blue Ridge Street Blairsville, GA 30512 Phone: 706-781-3929 State Rep. Lee Hawkins District 27 (represents White County voters in part of Shoal Creek precinct and voters in north Hall County) 508-B Coverdell Legislative Office Building Atlanta, GA 30334 Phone: 404-656-0213 lee.hawkins@house.ga.gov DISTRICT OFFICE: 4710 Jim Hood Road Gainesville, GA 30506 State Rep. Terry Rogers District 10 (represents White County voters in Mt. Yonah, Blue Creek, Mossy Creek, Nacoochee, White Creek and a part of Shoal Creek precincts along with most of Habersham County) 612-B Coverdell Legislative Building Atlanta, GA 30334 Phone: 404-656-0325 terry.rogers@house.ga.gov DISTRICT OFFICE: 2403 New Liberty Road Clarkesville, GA 30523 Phone: 706-754-0706

19

White County Government

Travis Turner Commission Chairman 706-865-2235 travis.turner@ whitecounty.net

Mike Melton

County Manager 706-865-2235 mmelton@ whitecounty.net

Terry Goodger Commissioner, District 1 706-892-5259 tgoodger@ whitecounty.net

Neal Walden Sheriff 706-865-6370 nwalden@ whitecounty.net

Lyn Holcomb Commissioner, District 2 706-865-6600 lholcomb@ whitecounty.net

David Murphy

Public Safety Director (emergency management) 706-865-9500 dmurphy@ whitecounty.net

Edwin Nix

Commissioner, District 3 706-865-3474 enix@whitecounty.net

Norm Alexander

White County Fire Chief 706-865-3855 nalexander@ whitecounty.net

Shanda Smallwood Murphy

Craig Bryant Commissioner, District 4 706-201-3303 cbryant@ whitecounty.net

County Clerk 706-865-2235 smurphy@ whitecounty.net

Cindy Cannon Tax Commissioner 706-865-2225 ccannon@ whitecounty.net

Dena Adams

Clerk of Superior Court 706-865-2613 dadams@whitecounty. net

White County Administration 1235 Helen Hwy. Cleveland, GA 30528 www.whitecounty.net The White County Board of Commissioners holds its regular meeting at 4:30 p.m. on the first Monday of the month in the White County Administration Building (formerly the old jail), 1235 Helen Hwy. A work session is held at 4:30 p.m. on the last Monday of the month in the same location.

20

White County Government

Family d n a l e v Cle enter C l a t n e d

“For A Bright New Smile” Garrison Baker

Judge Joy Parks

Ricky Barrett

Judge Stanley Gunter

Judge Raymond George

Judge Murphy C. Miller

Probate Judge and elections superintendent 706-865-4141

Superior Court, Enotah District 706-865-6135 Office located in White County courthouse

Magistrate Court 706-865-2613 (civil) 706-865-6636 (criminal)

Superior Court, Enotah District 706-867-8002 Office located in Dahlonega

Coroner 706-865-3101

Superior Court, Enotah District 706-439-6100 Office located in Blairsville

Magistrate Court Judge Joy Parks Judge Corey Hyde 706-865-2613 (civil cases) 706-865-6636 (criminal)

Planning department Harry Barton, planning director Tom O’Bryant, economic development director 706-865-6768

Assessor’s office Bryan Payne, chief appraiser 706-865-5328

Animal control Pat Cooper, director 706-219-2689

WHITE COUNTY APPOINTED BOARDS Alcoholic Beverage Commission: Jane Ann Allison, board chair Erford Harrison Dickie Nix Jo Ann Carroll, alternate

Development Authority: Bob Oliver, board chair John Erbele Michael Foor Marc Greene Russ keen Tom O’Bryant John Ziemer

Board of Health: Nadine Wardenga, board chair Lyn Holcomb Jennifer king Dr. James Murphey David Murphy Emmett Shotts Don Stanley

Planning Commission: Charlie Thomas, board chair R.k. Ackermann Brad Ash Buddy Belflower Linda Dixon Larry Freeman Bob Oliver

The team at Cleveland Family Dental Center. Bottom row, from left, Kelly Wragg, Jena Payne and Kayla Dippel. Middle row, from left, Cari Adams Lori Grier, Tiffaney Miller and Melody Brock. Back row, from left, Beth Smith, Dr. Brad Cox, Yvette Philyaw, Dr. Sean Cochran and Heather Davis.

Now accepting more Dental Insurance Companies, including Medicaid and Peachcare for children Due to the economy, we have become providers with more Dental Insurance Companies.

Call us today to see if we participate now with your insurance company, or will be in the future.

Other Services:

• Latest in dental technology, including totally digital X-rays • CAESY patient education • Nitrous (laughing gas) and IV Sedation • All general dentistry services

706-219-0033 • 3777 Hwy 129 South • Cleveland 21

City of Cleveland Government

Donald Stanley Mayor 706-865-4307 mayor@ cityofclevelandga.org

Bradley Greene City council 706-865-5332 ward4@ cityofclevelandga.org

Rush Mauney

City council 706-865-5738 ward1@ cityofclevelandga.org

Annie Sutton

City council 706-865-3671 ward2@ cityofclevelandga.org

Edward Young

Connie Tracas

City council 706-865-4137 ward3@ cityofclevelandga.org

City Clerk 706-865-2017 cityclerk@ cityofclevelandga.org

The Cleveland City Council meets at 7 p.m. the first and second Mondays of every month in the City Hall Annex.

John Foster

Police Chief 706-348-7078 chieffoster@ cityofclevelandga.org

Ricky Pruitt

Fire Chief 706-865-0617 firedept@ cityofclevelandga.org

Cleveland City Hall 85 S. Main Street Cleveland, GA 30528 www.cityofclevelandga.org

CLEVELAND APPOINTED BOARDS

kevin Stanley Gene White

Alcohol License Review Board: Bea Chambers Garland Lovell kevin Stanley John Burrows (alternate)

Planning and Zoning Board: Trey Baker John Burrow Jeff Groves Wilma Pittman Richard Smith Henrietta Sutton Nadine Wardenga

Downtown Development Authority: Terry Goodger, chairman Bradley Greene Sam Pelletier

Jacky Jones We have been serving North Georgia and the surrounding areas for over 26 years.

A 16 TIME President’s Award Winner Come see our new & pre-owned Ford trucks, Mustangs, SUVs and cars.

The most

impactful, unforgettable

week of your life!

706-865-2168 www.jackyjones.com 2742 Hwy 129 South • Cleveland, Ga. 22

Woodlands Camp

1242 Old Blue Creek Road Cleveland, GA 30528

•

706.865.0853 woodlandscamp.org

City of Helen Government

Judy Holloway

Mayor PO Box 180, Helen 706-878-1411 (office)

Jeff Ash

City commissioner PO Box 32, Helen 706-878-6600 (cell)

Dona K. Burke

City commissioner PO Box 619, Helen 706-878-1752 (home) 706-878-6330 (cell)

Fred Garmon

City commissioner PO Box 373, Helen 706-892-1262 (home)

Helen Wilkins

City commissioner PO Box 937, Helen 706-878-2433 (home) 706-878-0499 (cell)

Jerry Elkins City Manager 706-878-2733

The Helen City Commission meets at 10 a.m. the first Tuesday and 3 p.m. the third Tuesday of every month at Helen City Hall.

Planning and Design Review Board • Catherine Cleiman, chairman • David Greear • Ralph Hofer

Marylin Chastain City Clerk 706-878-2733

• Charlie Knowles • Jeff McAllister • Bill Miles • Mike Wilkins Helen City Hall 706-878-2733 25 Alpenrosen Strasse PO Box 280, Helen www.cityofhelen.org

Jim Couch Police Chief 706-878-2722

Betty’s Country Store

Clothing

Helen’s Oldest and Most Unique Store

established in 1973 in the quaint little Alpine Village of Helen

Monday-Saturday 10am to 6pm Sunday noon to 6pm

Boots ★ Clothing ★ Jewelry Men ★ Women ★ Children Big Sizes ★ Big & Tall Casual Wear Western Hats & Belts 50% off Ladies dress apparel 8160 South Main Street • Helen | 706-878-2734

Best Fresh Cut Meat • Full Line of Groceries Beer & Wine • Homemade Baked Goodies Best Produce in North Ga • Thoughtful and Unique Gifts Lunch Specials Everyday Chicken & Dumplings Every Wednesday & Friday

Betty’s Country Store

We are Open EVERYDAY 7am-9pm

Main Street • Helen, Georgia • 706-878-2943

Northeast Georgia’s ultimate do Your own art destination

www.fancydoodle.net

• Wine & Canvas sessions • Kierien Bree Photography studio • Wine Bar • Kid’s Kool-Aid & Canvas

706-878-0177

7272 south main street | helen, Ga 30545 located across from nacoochee tavern

23

White County Board of Education

Jeff Wilson, Superintendent

Kendyl Brock Hunter

706-865-2315 (office) jwilson@ white.k12.ga.us

Board Chair 706-348-1683 (home) kbrock@ white.k12.ga.us

Jay Westmoreland District 1 706-892-4648 (cell) jwestmoreland@white. k12.ga.us

Amy Crumley

District 2 706-348-6786 (home) acrumley@ white.k12.ga.us

Charlie Thomas Jr.

Barry Vandiver

District 3 706-865-2713 (home) cthomas@ white.k12.ga.us

District 4 706-865-6693 (home) bvandiver@ white.k12.ga.us

The White County Board of Education meets at 6 p.m. the fourth Thursday of every month in the BOE central office. Work sessions are held at 8 a.m. the Tuesdays before the Thursday meetings.

White County Public Schools Jack P. Nix Primary School (grades K-2), Ga. 115 West, 706-865-6935 Stacie Ward, principal

Mossy Creek Elementary School (grades K-5), Westmoreland Road, 706-865-5000 Jennifer King, principal

Mt. Yonah Elementary School (grades K-5), Duncan Bridge Road, 706-865-3514 Jill Baughman, principal

White County Intermediate School (grades 3-5), Tesnatee Gap Valley Road, 706-865-1037 Shann Cash, principal

2013 Honor grads at WCHS Sarabeth Cummins, left, and Tanner Mauney

24

White County Middle School (grades 6-8), Old Blairsville Hwy., 706-865-4060 Kristi Gerrells, principal

White County High School (grades 10-12), U.S. 129 North, 706-865-2312 John Osborne, principal

Ninth Grade Academy (grade 9), Old Blairsville Hwy., 706-865-0727 John Osborne, principal; Steve Bartlett, director

White County School System administrative office Old Blairsville Hwy. 706-865-2315

Other White County Schools • White County Head Start/Pre-K (age 4) 676 Claude Sims Road, 706-865-4947 • Mountain Education Charter High School is a public, charter high school providing high school diplomas to students ages 15-21. Classes are selfpaced and meet in the evenings yearround.

Full-time enrollment is free. Credit recovery for full-time students at traditional schools is also available. White County site is located at the Ninth Grade Academy. Call 706-219-4664.

• White County Learning Center provides a low-cost opportunity for White County residents to earn a high school diploma or GED. Services offered include assessment, basic instruction and test preparation.

The learning center, which is part of North Georgia Technical College, also administers the GED test. Visit www. northgatech.edu or call 706-865-7323.

• White Creek Christian Academy, a private Christian school near Cleveland, is a college prep school where students have prayer, spiritual training and Bible lessons daily.

White Creek serves students in preschool through 12th grade.

Visit www.whitecreekacademy.org or call 706-865-1917.

• Chattahoochee Christian School, a private Christian school on the campus of Concord Baptist Church in Clermont, provides a Christian education combining academics and biblical teachings to students in kindergarten through sixth grade. Visit www. chattahoocheechristian.org or call 770983-9433.

Postsecondary Schools • Truett-McConnell College is a four-year private Christian liberal arts college located one mile east of the Cleveland square. The college is a residential campus and also welcomes commuters.

Visit www.truett.edu or call 706-865-2134.

• North Georgia Technical College has campus locations in Clarkesville, Toccoa and Blairsville to provide students with training in employability skills and hands-on industry experience.

NGTC provides traditional classes, distance learning and online courses. Students can earn a certificate, a diploma or an associate’s degree.

The school also offers adult

education programs.

Visit www.northgatech.edu or call 706-754-7700.

• Brenau University is a private university in Gainesville with campus locations in Norcross, Fairburn, Martinez and Kings Bay, offering two-year, fouryear and graduate degrees.

Visit www.brenau.edu or call 770-534-6299.

• University of North Georgia is a public university in Dahlonega with campus locations in Cumming, Dahlonega, Gainesville and Watkinsville. It offers twoyear and four-year degrees, graduate degrees and certificate programs. Visit

Gray Fox Farm Pasture-raised Pork year round Farm fresh eggs No antibiotics or growth hormones ever!

Healthy food from our family farm to your family’s table

Sam & Karen Ball • 706-219-2255 798 Alternate Hwy 75 • Cleveland • grayfoxfarmswc.com

degrees, graduate degrees and certificate programs. Visit www.piedmont.edu or 706778-3000.

www.ung.edu or call 706-8641800.

• Piedmont College is a private university in Demorest with a campus in Athens. It offers bachelor’s A favorite for generations!

Creekside Deli

inside dining or casual dining on the porch, catering

16 Old Nacoochee Rd. • Cleveland, Ga (Hwy 129, North of the Square) www.restaurantsclevelandga.com

OPEN DAILY 706-865-3666

White County’s full service bookstore So much more than just used books –– a great shopping destination for gifts for the whole family

Mt. Yonah

Book Exchange

Customer Loyalty Program • Complimentary Coffee Bar Kids’ Summer Reading Program Tie-dye apparel • Handmade walking sticks Local art • Cross-stitched bookmarks Art jewelry and more

706-219-1565

3779 Helen Hwy, Cleveland (located at the green locomotive train) mtyonahbookexchange.com Hours: Mon-Sat 10-4 We accept MasterCard, Visa and Discover

25

A castle in Helen This castle wall on a ridge north of Helen encloses 2.5 acres. The interior grounds will eventually include an amphitheater and a house with a great hall. When completed, the owner plans to open it to the public a few days a week.

26

One Man’s Castle

Robert Marthai has built a castle wall and four towers, and has plans for much more

R

by LINDA ERBELE

ISING ON A MOUNTAIN NORTH OF Helen is a castle made of aerated concrete.

It is one man’s vision of retirement, designed as a bed and breakfast, although creator and builder Robert Marthai says it won’t include breakfast.

Marthai, and his wife, Janine, came to Helen about six years ago from Chicago. Marthai describes himself as a Renaissance man. He taught psychology at Charleston Southern University in Charleston, S.C., for 20 years.

He was also a sailor and a boat builder. He conceived and designed The Windy, one of the tallest sailing vessels in Chicago, built in a shipyard in Charleston. He said he sold the boat before retiring to Georgia. Now, he is a castle builder and, as always, a philosopher.

As a boy, Marthai attended Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School, so he was happy to return to Northeast Georgia.

The idea for the castle started with a plan to create a garden as a retirement project. One garden led to another, and then the whole thing morphed into a castle. So far, he has built two towers, a guard house at the grand entrance and the castle wall that encloses 2½ acres. The couple’s house will be built in the center, and will include a 30-by-48 foot grand hall suitable for weddings, meetings or a contra dance.

It will be surrounded by the gardens, each of which will have a different theme, based on philosophy and religion.

They will be open to the public several days a week, for a “castle experience.”

“It will be a citadel of epistemology,” Marthai said.

Epistemology is the study of knowledge and justified belief.

The castle and its walls are built of aerated concrete.

It serves as insulation, has strength and is fireresistant, but weighs about 80 percent less than regular concrete.

The castle will be named Uhuburg, which Marthai said translates as Eagle Owl Castle. The Eurasian eagle owl is the largest species of owls, with a wingspan of some 70 inches. Its call is a resounding ooh-hoo.

A statue of the owl will glare down on visitors to the gatehouse. A life-sized statue of George Fox, an early founder of the Society of Friends, also known as the Quakers, will put them in a contemplative mood just outside the entrance. → 27

Statuary is one of Marthai’s passions, and he has been collecting them for his castle.

Life-sized statues of Hercules, Cicero and Michelangelo as well as the Seven Sisters from Greek mythology gaze down from the wall at the moment.

He plans to place several large fountains in the gardens, along with a 400-pound, marble Japanese bridge.

Other statues will greet guests along his 1,600-foot driveway.

The castle wall, 8 feet wide and built on two levels, will have a mural on the lower level inside that visitors can follow around the perimeter of the complex.

“The mural will feature the way man has tried to understand life, from the Zoroastrians, to the Greeks, Hebrews, Vishnu and Hindus up to modern days,” Marthai said.

One of his favorite rooms is the Hall of Masks, which will be along the castle wall beneath the amphitheater stage.

“It will be at the conclusion of the walk (around the wall),” he said.

“It represents the way we all put masks on and try to be things we are not. What part does truth play in life and how do you define truth?”

Marthai estimated it will be three years before the castle construction is completed. ■

28

The man behind the castle Robert Marthai overlooks his mountain property north of Helen, where he is building his castle.

Right: Every castle needs a dragon. This one has two that guard the entrance.

Below: The guard tower at the entrance features an Eurasian owl that gives the castle its name – Uhuburg.

Statues of historic and mythical figures abound Top: George Fox, early founder of the Society of Friends, also known as the Quakers, greets people at the entrance. Bottom left: Hercules guards the castle while overlooking the vineyard. Bottom right: A statue of Michelangelo waits along the castle wall for his final place when construction is complete.

29

Explore Yonah Mountain Treasures for distinctive gifts and decorating ideas.

Art • Pottery Wood Creations • Cabin Decor Books by local writers • Puzzles Custom Picture Framing Jewelry & Fashion Accessories

New ‘Distant Voices’ documentary now available

MTN.

WE SHIP •

Nikki Cross and Allison Erbele

Free parking at the chocolate factory

Come in and satisfy your sweet tooth Yonah Mtn. Treasures

Next to the Yonah Burger on Hwy. 75, two miles north of Cleveland.

706-348-8236

• A wide assortment • Made fresh daily • Handmade chocolates • Chocolate covered strawberries

*We also offer a great assortment of sugar free chocolates.

2 locations to serve you!

8651 N. Main St., Helen • 8078 S. Main St., Helen 706-878-2443 • 800-524-3008 • hanselandgretelcandykitchen.com

Senior Homecare By Angels We Care Every Day, In Every Way

Bathing Assistance Dressing & Grooming Assistance Assistance with Walking Medication Reminders Errands & Shopping Light Housekeeping Meal Preperation Friendly Companionship Flexible Hourly Care Respite Care for Families Live-In Care 30

Covering All of Northeast Georgia

706-219-1415 VisitingAngels.com/NorthEastGeorgia On the Square in Cleveland

“Locally and Veteran Owned” Each Visiting Angels agency is independently owned and operated.

Service Matters

ARI

first opened in the Spring of 1969 and is now the oldest craft shop in the same location in the state of Georgia. For 45 years, we continue to offer quality handcrafted, contemporary pottery from our local artists. The shop offers handmade crafts in metal, ceramic jewelry, hand blown glass and pottery by more than 30 artists/craftspeople.

Automotive Repairs, Inc.

Import & Domestic Honda Specialists Toyota • Nissan

Established 1993

» ASE Master Auto Technicians » Computer Diagnostics » Tune Ups and Scheduled Maintenance

Mark Chesney, Billy Echols, Carl Smith, Rick Hughes, Jake Carlton and Micah Woods SCP2014-63676

100 years of combined experience

Handcrafted in the USA

» Timing Belt Replacements » Hybrid Service

706-219-2495 • www.ariautorepair.com Hwy 129 South (across from Walmart) 72 Warehouse Drive, Cleveland

706-947-3440 9982 Hwy. 197 N., Clarkesville, Ga 30523 www.markofthepotter.com

We accept

61883

770.534.5000 1780 MLK Jr. Blvd SE Gainesville, GA 30501

SC2014-62917

www.piedmonttractor.com

Open Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm | Saturdays 8am - 3pm

31

Mountain Stream Cool, clear streams are everywhere in White County.

The Great Outdoors Fun places to play in White County

• Camping: Unicoi State Park has 105 campsites, plus the unique “Squirrel’s Nest” group camp. Reservations: www.unicoilodge. com or 800-573-9659 Camping is also available at these state parks a short drive from White County: Amicalola Falls, Black Rock Mountain, Don Carter, Moccasin Creek, Tallulah Gorge, Vogel. For details, visit www. gastateparks.org/campsites The Chattahoochee National Forest offers a variety of camping options in the area. For information, visit www.fs.usda. gov/activity/conf/recreation/campingcabins • Fly fishing: Unicoi Outfitters, 706-878-3083, www. unicoioutfitters.com • Golf courses: Innsbruck Golf Club, Helen, 18 holes, 706-878-2100 Mossy Creek Golf Course, Cleveland, 18 holes, 706-865-2277

• Hiking Trails: Anna Ruby Falls: 0.4 miles (0.8 miles round-trip) Take Ga. 75 north from Helen for 1 mile. Turn right on Ga. 356 for 1.5 miles, then go left on the entrance road to the falls. $3 user fee per car.

Andrews Cove Trail: 1.8 miles to connect to the Appalachian Trail (or 3.6 miles out and back). Take Ga. 75 north from Helen for 5 miles. Turn right into the Andrews Cove Recreation Area.

Dukes Creek Trail: 2 miles roundtrip. Take Ga. 75 north from Helen for 1.5 miles. Turn left on Ga. 356 (Alternate 75) and go 2.3 miles to the Richard Russell Scenic Highway. Turn right, and go two miles to the Dukes Creek Falls Recreation Area. $3 user fee per car.

Raven Cliffs Trail: 2.5 miles to the falls (5 miles round-trip). Entire trail parallels a rushing creek. Take Ga. 75 north from Helen for 1.5 miles. Turn left on Ga. 356 (Alternate 75) and travel 2.3 miles to the Richard Russell Scenic Highway. Turn right and travel 2.8 miles to the trailhead and parking area.

Smith Creek Trail: 5 miles (10 miles round-trip) Take Ga. 75 north from Helen for 1 mile. Turn right on Ga. 356 and drive 1.5 miles. Then go left at the entrance to Unicoi State Park. Follow the signs to the Anna Ruby Falls parking area. Hike the short, paved trail to the falls. Smith Creek Trail begins at the right of the observation bridge. $3 fee to park at Anna Ruby visitor center.

Unicoi State Park Lake Trail: 2.5mile, easy loop trail around Unicoi Lake.

Off Ga. 356 just before Unicoi Lodge. $5 parking fee Yonah Mountain Trail: The trail goes three-fourths of the way up the side of Yonah Mountain to the U.S. Army’s helicopter drop zone. Once past the helicopter area, three trails wind up to the peak. Access to the mountain is off Chambers Rd. Take Ga. 75 north of Cleveland to Tom Bell Road. Then turn onto Chambers Rd. There is signage to help you locate the trail.

For more information on hiking trails, visit the Chattahoochee National

→

Jewelry & Watch Repair Re-mounting Custom Designs Local Gemstone Cutting Jeweler on Site FREE estimates on jewelry & watch repairs Over 25 Years of Experience

Come See... What We Saw

Toys are 100% handmade in the workshop inside the store!

678-863-7742 706-878-1842 www.timswoodentoyshop.com 8635 Main St. Unit 8 German Plaza • Helen

J ewels of the mine 706-865-4436

Hours: 9-6 Mon.-Fri.; 10-3 Sat. All Major Credit Cards Accepted 1612 Hwy 129 South • Cleveland 1.5 miles south of the square

See all our Adoptable Pets... sanganimalrescue.org 33

Forest page of the U.S. Forest Service website: www.fs.usda. gov/conf • Mountain biking: Unicoi State Park contains miles of trails for beginning and advanced mountain bikers. $2 user fee per person. For information, call Unicoi State Park at 706-878-2201 or visit www.GeorgiaStateParks.org/ Unicoi.

Woody’s Mountain Bikes in Helen, 706-878-3715, sells or rents biking gear and offers group rides.

• River running: Enjoy whitewater rafting, kayaking or canoeing on the Chattahoochee River.

Wildwood Outfitters, Ga. 384 (Duncan Bridge Road) at the Chattahoochee River bridge. 706-865-4451, www. wildwoodoutfitters.com • State parks: Smithgall Woods State Park Arguably Georgia’s premier public-water destination for

trophy trout, Dukes Creek is managed under special regulations to maintain and protect the excellent fishing the area offers. More than 7 miles of Dukes Creek and its tributaries flow through the 5,562-acre site. $5 per car parking fee.

For more information, visit the website www.

GeorgiaStateParks.org/ SmithgallWoods or call 706-8783087.

Unicoi State Park & Lodge Throughout the year, the park offers outstanding programs that focus on natural, cultural, historical and recreational resources. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking and biking on scenic mountain trails, especially those leading to Helen and Anna Ruby Falls. Numerous picnic tables are located throughout the park. $5 per car parking fee.

For information, visit www.

GeorgiaStateParks.org/Unicoi or call 706-878-2201.

• Summer Camps: Youth sport camps are plentiful during June and July.

Hikers

This group explores the old Unicoi Trail above Helen.

Celebrating

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Unicoi State Park & Lodge

Unicoi Lake provides canoeing and kayaking opportunities, not to mention fishing.

The school district, 706-865-2315, White County Family YMCA, 706-865-5275, and Truett-McConnell College, 706-8652134, all host camps featuring instruction and competition in a wide range of sports.

Other summer camps in White County include: Camp Barney Medintz – 706-865-2715 or www. campbarney.org Camp Coleman – 706-865-4111 or www.coleman.urjcamps. org Strong Rock Camp – 706-348-1533 or www. strongrockcamp.com Woodlands Camp – 706-865-0853 or www. woodlandscamp.org • Tubing on the Chattahoochee River: Cool River Tubing, 800-896-4595 or www.coolrivertubing. com Flea Market Tubing, 706-878-PINK (7465) or www. helentubing.com

• Trash Service • Recycling Service • Large Item Removal www.ChaseSanitation.com Travis Halbrook Tammy Halbrook travis@ChaseSanitation.com tammy@ChaseSanitation.com 706-968-1370 706-968-2555 P.O. Box 247 • Cornelia, GA 30531

• White County Family YMCA: The White County Family YMCA provides a variety of recreation activities for youth, teens and adults. In addition to having the traditional sport leagues for kids of all ages, the White County Family YMCA has also created adult sport leagues and other events for kids such as teen dances and art contests.

For league registration information, visit www. gamountainsymca.org/white-county or call 706-865-5275.

White County Family YMCA is located at 327 Asbestos Road in Cleveland.

• Zipline tours: Two companies in the Helen area allow you to experience the thrill of zooming through the forest canopy.

Cool River Ziplines – 706-878-9471 or www. coolriverziplines.com Zip’n Time – 706-878-9477 or www.zipntime.com

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Places to go

White County is filled special-event venues.

Calendar of Events MARCH 22-23, 29-30: Spring Wine Highway Weekend, Various area wineries, 706878-9463 29: 25th Annual Trout Tournament, Helen Chamber of Commerce, 706878-1908. Open to all ages. Entry fee includes two raffle tickets for all entries and a tournament T-shirt for the first 200 entries. Fish the Chattahoochee River for cash prizes in tagged fish. www. helenchamber.com

29: Reluctant Dragon puppet show and workshop, SNCA, 706-878-3300, www.snca.org APRIL Bingo every Tuesday & Friday, 7 p.m., Festhalle, 706-878-1908 or 706-878-2181 www.helenchamber.com 12: Magical Easter Eggstravaganza, BabyLand General Hospital & White County Chamber of Commerce. Events

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COUNTY FAMILY YMCA Silver SneakersWHITE is here!

White County Spirit: Promoting Christian Values Mind: Homework Assistance Family YMCA Body: Structured Physical Activity 327 Asbestos Road, Cleveland • 706-865-5275 • www.gamountiansymca.org : WhiteCountyFamilyYMCA

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White County Family YMCA • 327 Asbestos Road. • Cleveland, GA 30528 • P 706.865.5275 • F 706.865.5844

throughout the day. Breakfast with the Easter Bunny (reservations required), the Easter Egg Hunt, and Arts & Crafts show will take place on the grounds of BabyLand General Hospital. Oldfashioned Easter parade will take place in downtown Cleveland. 706-865-2171 or 706-865-5356 www.cabbagepatchkids. com 12: Springfest, 6-11 p.m., Festhalle.

Enjoy music, dancing, food and beverages on the banks of the beautiful

Chattahoochee River. 706-878-1908 www.helenchamber.com 19: Easter Fun, Unicoi State Park. Create your own Easter basket, participate in an Easter egg hunt and meet the Easter Bunny. 706-878-2201 22: “History of Movie Making in Helen and White County,” 5:30 p.m., presentation reflecting on past movies filmed in the area. Helen Arts & Heritage Center, 706-878-3933, www.helenarts.org 26-27: Shubert Alley in the Valley, SNCA, 706-878-3300, www.snca.org MAY Bingo every Tuesday & Friday, 7 p.m., Festhalle, 706-878-1908 or 706-878-2181 www.helenchamber.com 1: “Rainbow Rays” art exhibit reception, 5:30 p.m., Helen Arts & Heritage Center, 706-878-3933, www. helenarts.org 3-4: Shubert Alley in the Valley, SNCA, 706-878-3300, www.snca.org 3: Winefest, Habersham Winery.

This is a great time to sample fine wines produced by the Winegrowers Association of Georgia at one location.

You can enjoy great music and see fine art and crafts. 706-878-9463 4: Spring Christian Concert Series,

6 p.m., Truett-McConnell College Gymnasium. Featuring: Kutless and Audio Adrenaline. Call 706-865-5356 for more information. White County Chamber of Commerce and TruettMcConnell College.

9-11: Sautee Stars presents “Stone Soup”, SNCA, 706-878-3300, www.snca. org 10: 13th Annual May in the Mountain Arts & Crafts Festival, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., This event features student art and work by many local artisans. Ample parking and free admission, White County High School, www.white.k12.ga.us/wchs 17: Youth Fishing Days at Buck Shoals. Third Saturday of each month through Sept. 20, 8 a.m.noon. Children and their special “big person” can fish in a lake stocked with catfish, bass, and bream. Fish caught can be kept. Bring your own bait and rod. No registration required. 706-878-3087 17-18: Sautee Nacoochee Community Chorale spring concert, SNCA, 706-8783300, www.snca.org 24: 25th Annual Pig Out Barbecue, fundraiser for the volunteer firefighters, noon-5 p.m., SNCA. For more information contact Capt. Roger

Williams, 706-878-9349 24: Bavarianfest, 6-11 p.m., Festhalle.

Help us honor our military and civil servants. Free admission for all active and retired military personnel (ID required).

Experience a live oompah band, dancing and a festive German atmosphere.

Sponsored by the Helen Chamber of Commerce, 706-878-1908, www. helenchamber.com

Front Porch Gliders

24: Saturday Evening Music Concert Series, 8 p.m., Unicoi State Park. These are among the best musicians in the area performing a variety of music from Appalachian Mountain, bluegrass, and Southern gospel music. The program lasts from Memorial Day weekend till → mid-November. These programs

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will be “pass the hat” donations for the musicians. 706-878-2201 29-June 1: 14th Annual US Riders News Reunion Run and 8th Annual Southeast Victory Run, Helen Riverside Park, 478-237-3761

That is a lot of garlic

Thousands of visitors attend LoganBerry Heritage Farm’s GarlicFest each August.

JUNE Bingo every Tuesday & Friday, 7 p.m., Festhalle, 706-878-1908 or 706-878-2181 www.helenchamber.com 5-7: 41st Annual Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race, Helendorf Inn, 706-878-2271 7: Lawn Party, SNCA, 706-878-3300, www.snca.org 10: “Moonshine in Helen and Thereabouts in White County,” 5:30 p.m., presentation by local shiners on the topic of moonshine and stills in the area.

Helen Arts & Heritage Center, 706-8783933, www.helenarts.org 11-14: Sautee Nacoochee International Ping-Pong Tournament, SNCA, 706-878-3300, www.snca.org 13-15: Northeast Georgia 2014 Arts Tour. Meet over 100 local artists (painters, potters, jewelry makers, fiber, glass, metal artists and more) demonstrating art in the making. Find miles of handmade gifts. Register to win

great prizes – such as theater tickets, restaurant gift certificates, and an original oil painting – at all tour stops. www. artstour.org 14: Kids Day at the Park, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Smithgall Woods. Help kids learn fun ways to stay healthy, learn skills, and appreciate the great outdoors!

Kids can earn a badge through active participation in exhibits. Archery, animal

exhibits, compass games, air rifles, stream critters, and much more! No registration required. 706-878-3087 14: Shriner’s Parade, downtown Helen. 706-878-2181 21: Youth Fishing Days at Buck Shoals. Third Saturday of each month through Sept. 20, 8 a.m.-noon, Children and their special “big person” can fish in a lake stocked with catfish, bass, and

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Offering a unique menu of sandwiches, wraps, baked goods, cheeses, ice cream & much more.

Open Daily 706-878-2281

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bream. Fish caught can be kept. Bring your own bait and rod. No registration required. 706-878-3087 23-27: Buzz on Bees, Bugs, and Birds, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Smithgall Woods.

Campers ages 6-14 learn about the fascinating world of pollinators, why their job is so important, and how they help humans. Register in advance. 706-8783087.

26: “50 Shades of Summer” art exhibit reception, 5:30 p.m., Helen Arts & Heritage Center, 706-878-3933, www. helenarts.org JULY Bingo every Tuesday & Friday, 7 p.m., Festhalle, 706-878-1908 or 706-878-2181 www.helenchamber.com 4: Annual Fireworks at Dusk, behind the Alpine Village Shoppes, 706-8782181, www.helenga.org.

7-11: All About BUGS Camp, 9 a.m.noon, Smithgall Woods. Youngsters learn about different kinds of bugs and have a chance to explore the world of bugs. For kids ages 4-6. Register in advance, 706878-3087 12: Appalachian Evening Concert, SNCA, 706-878-3300, www.snca.org 18-26: Georgia Mountain Fair,

Hiawassee Fairgrounds, 706-8964191 19: Youth Fishing Days at Buck Shoals. Third Saturday of each month through Sept. 20, 8 a.m.-noon. 706-8783087 21-25: Eco-Kids Camp: Caring for the Winged Ones, 9 a.m.- 3 p.m., Smithgall Woods. Eco-Kids learn ways to support winged creatures in this active, hands-on camp. For ages 6-14. Register in advance, 706-878-3087 26-27: Folk Life Festival, Unicoi State Park. This event will host demonstrations of everything from spinning to candle dipping and blacksmithing. Concerts will feature traditional Appalachian and old-time mountain music. Festivities will include: mountain skill displays, concerts, old-fashioned games and some Appalachian-style community dancing.

706-878-2201 AUGUST Bingo every Tuesday & Friday, 7 p.m., Festhalle, 706-878-1908 or 706-878-2181 www.helenchamber.com 2: Atlanta Ballet Wabi Sabi show, SNCA, 706-878-3300, www.snca.org 13: An Artful Taste of Helen, 6 p.m.

An elegant and unique presentation of

the area’s art by local artisans combined with the authentic culinary tastes of Helen from all the local eateries and wineries along with a historical agricultural presentation of wine growing in northeast Georgia. Held at the Helen Festhalle. Cost is $20. Sponsored by the Helen Arts & Heritage Center, 706-8783933, helenarts.org 16: Youth Fishing Days at Buck Shoals. Third Saturday of each month through Sept. 20, 8 a.m-noon. 706-8783087 23: Gold Fever and Golden Memories, 9 a.m.-noon, Smithgall Woods. Hear about the history of gold mining with local historians and enjoy a guided hike to the Martin Mine Trail.

Register in advance. 706-878-3087 23: 6th Annual GarlicFest, 10 a.m.4 p.m., Loganberry Heritage Farm.

Annual celebration of the garlic harvest.

Cooking demos, tastings, live music, creative food. 706-348-6068, www. loganberryheritagefarm.com 24: Bean Creek Choir, SNCA, 706878-3300, www.snca.org 28: 2014 Judged Art Competition with reception, 5:30 p.m., Helen Arts & Heritage Center, 706-878-3933, www. helenarts.org

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he Hayes dealerships have been very involved in helping the community they do business with since the very beginning. As in any business, our people are what keep us here. They are the heart of Hayes. In 1971, A.D. Hayes, and his brother, Donald Hayes, started the first dealership with the simple belief that treating everyone like family was the key to success. He was right! We know times have changed and people have become too cynical to believe any business truly cares. But seeing is believing! At Hayes, our dad’s wisdom, over 40 years later, still rings true. If we expect the people in our community to support us, then we in turn should support them.

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30: Crush Fest 2014, Yonah Mountain Vineyards. Crush Fest is a day-long harvest festival celebrating the grape harvest of Yonah Mountain Vineyards.

Crush Fest is highlighted by grape stomping, vineyard wagon tours and wine tasting. 706-878-5522, www. yonahmountainvineyards.com 30: Folk Pottery Show and Sale, SNCA, 706-878-3300, www.snca.org

878-2181 www.helenchamber.com 13: Oktoberfest Parade, noon, downtown Helen. Celebrate the opening of Oktoberfest. The “tapping of the keg” follows the parade. 706-878-1908 www. helenchamber.com Attending Chamber event Ward and Ellen Gann

SEPTEMBER Date TBA: Outdoor Adventure Day, Unicoi State Park. Learn how to catch a trout, paddle a canoe, and shoot a shotgun. Try activities like fly tying and casting, bass fishing basics, and trout fishing in the stocked stream, archery, BB gun and skeet shooting. 706-878-2201 2 & 5: Bingo, 7 p.m., Festhalle, 706-878-1908 or 706-878-2181 www. helenchamber.com 11-14, 18-Nov. 2: 44th Annual Oktoberfest, Festhalle. Helen’s biggest celebration. German music, dancing, food and drinks. Enjoy waltzes, polkas and the chicken dance. Oktoberfest will run from Sept. 11-14, then will reopen again on Sept. 18 and continue daily through Nov. 2. 706-878-1908 or 706-

20: Youth Fishing Days at Buck Shoals. Third Saturday of each month through Sept. 20, 8 a.m.-noon. 706-8783087 27: Agri-Fest/Country Market & Pottery Comes to Town, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Downtown Cleveland. 706-865-5356 www.whitecountychamber.org

OCTOBER 1-31: 44th Annual Oktoberfest, Festhalle. Helen’s biggest celebration.

German music, dancing, food and drinks!

Oktoberfest continues daily through Nov. 2. 706-878-1908 or 706-878-2181 www. helenchamber.com 4: Sautee Jamboree, SNCA, 706-8783300, www.snca.org 9: “Thar’s Gold In Them Thar Hills,” a historic look into gold mining in White County and the role played by Helen and the surrounding area. 5:30 p.m., Helen Arts & Heritage Center, 706-878-3933, helenarts.org 10-18 : Georgia Mountain Fall Festival, Hiawassee Fairgrounds, 706896-4191 11: Fall Celebration, noon- 4 p.m., Smithgall Woods. Hands-on pioneer skills exhibits, hayrides through the park, traditional craft vendors, mountain music, and apple cider from a handcranked press. 706-878-3087 18: Art-Oberfest, 11 a.m.-6 p.m, Helen Riverside Park. Family fun with artists’ booths, attic treasures sale, bake sale & more! Helen Arts & Heritage Center, 706-878-3933 www.helenarts.org 18-19 : Lilies of the Valley concert, SNCA, 706-878-3300, www.snca.org

Warwick Lawn Care

Grass Mowing Lawn Maintenance Leaf Removal Pruning Aerating

706-865-4172 706-878-8563 warwicklawncare@windstream.net Farrell and Pam Warwick 40

25-26 : 46th Annual Mountain Moonshine Festival, downtown Dawsonville, 706-216-5273

Pottery Comes to Town brings out collectors

Bill House sells a Nub Meaders’ “Blue Rooster” at last year’s event.

18-19 : Gold Rush Days, downtown Dahlonega, Dahlonega Convention & Visitors Bureau, 706-864-3711 23: “Alpine Holidays” art exhibit reception, 5:30 p.m., Helen Arts & Heritage Center, 706-878-3933, www. helenarts.org 25: Basic Land Navigation Course, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Smithgall Woods. Learn basic land navigation to include an explanation of the compass and how it works. Liquid-filled compasses will be supplied, or you may use your personal

compass. Register in advance. 706-8783087 25: Hallowine Fest, noon-6 p.m., Sautee-Nacoochee Vineyards. Join us as we celebrate our fourth anniversary.

A large carboy jug partially filled with wine corks will be on display and prizes will be awarded to the four people who come closest to guessing the correct number of corks. Hors d’oeuvres and great music. 706-878-1056, www. sauteenacoocheevineyards.com

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NOVEMBER 1: Unicoi Wine Fest, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Featuring White County wineries, arts & crafts, music and food. 706-865-5356. www.whitecountychamber.org 1-2: 44th Annual Oktoberfest, Festhalle. Helen’s biggest celebration.

German music, dancing, food and drinks.

706-878-1908 or 706-878-2181 www. helenchamber.com 7-9: Georgia 2014 Winter Arts Tour.

Meet over 100 local artists (painters, potters, jewelry makers, fiber, glass, metal artists and more) demonstrating art in the making. Find miles of handmade gifts. Register to win great prizes – such as theater tickets, restaurant gift certificates, and an original oil painting – at all tour stops. www.artstour.org 8-9: Civil War Expo, Helen Riverside Park. The event will feature living-history demonstrations and reenactors from across the country. For more information, e-mail Al Platt at aplatt0021@aol.com.

15: Atlanta Concert Ringers, SNCA, 706-878-3300, www.snca.org

shopping

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22: BabyLand Appalachian Christmas, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., BabyLand General Hospital, 706-865-2171, www. cabbagepatchkids.com 26-Dec. 13: Festival of Trees, Unicoi State Park. View the beautifully decorated trees throughout the lodge. 706-878-2201 28-30: 7th Annual Christkindlmarkt, downtown Helen, traditional German event. Booths are set up on the marketplatz where visitors can enjoy the holiday atmosphere. The market offers everything from unique gifts and decorations to an assortment of savory and sweet foods, drinks and candied treats. 706-878-1908, www.helenchamber.com 28: Annual Lighting of the Village, 6 p.m., downtown Helen, 706-878-2181 www.helenga.org 28-30: Holiday Celebration & Live Nativity, 10 a.m.- 9 p.m., North Georgia Zoo, 706-348-7279, www.northgeorgiazoo.com DECEMBER 1-13: Festival of Trees, Unicoi State Park. View the beautifully decorated trees throughout the lodge. 706-878-2201 5-7: Sautee Stars, SNCA, 706-878-3300, www.snca.org 6-7: 7th Annual Christkindlmarkt, downtown Helen, traditional German event. 706-878-1908, www.helenchamber. com 6: Annual Christmas Parade, downtown Helen, 2 p.m., 706878-2181. Christmas elves and Christmas characters along with Santa coming to town! www.helenga.org 6: Annual Christmas in the Mountains Festival, 3-8 p.m., downtown Cleveland 706-865-5356, www. whitecountychamber.org 6: Annual Christmas in the Mountains Lighted Parade, 7 p.m., downtown Cleveland. Come see the lighted parade wind through downtown Cleveland. 706-865-5356, www. whitecountychamber.org 6: Christmas at the Cabin, SNCA, 706-878-3300, www.snca. org 9: “Appalachian Christmas – Holiday Traditions in Helen and White County,” a historical look at the traditions of an Old South Appalachian Christmas. 5:30 p.m., Helen Arts & Heritage Center, 706-878-3933, helenarts.org 12-14: Sautee Community Chorale concert, SNCA, 706878-3300, www.snca.org 31: Dropping of the Edelweiss, New Year’s Eve event, sponsored by the Helen Chamber of Commerce, 706-878-1908 www.helenchamber.com Information in the above listings is subject to change. See the community calendar and the arts, books, and music pages in the White County News each week for more information and additional events throughout the year.

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Area Churches BAPTIST Bethel Baptist Church Ga. 356, Sautee Nacoochee, GA www.bethelbaptistofsautee.org

Helen First Baptist Church 53 Edelweiss Strasse • P.O. Box 626, Helen, GA 706-878-2089 • www.helenfbc.com Hillcrest Baptist Church Clermont, GA 706-983-5811 • www.hillcrestbaptistchurch.org Shoal Creek Baptist Church 142 Shoal Creek Church Road, Cleveland, GA 706-865-1518 • www.shoalcreekcleveland.org HOLINESS Emmanuel Gospel Fellowship Church Ga. 115 West, Cleveland, GA 30528 P.O. Box 656 706-865-2060 www.emmanuelgospelfellowshipchurch.com METHODIST Nacoochee United Methodist Church 1377 Ga. 17 North, Sautee Nacoochee, GA 706-878-3263 • www.nacoocheeumc.org These are paid listings. See the White County News church directory each week for a full listing of churches in White County.

Ain’t B’s Bakery & Confectionery Arts Studio

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951 South Main Street Cleveland 706-865-2831 www.wcfecoop.com

Wedding Cakes and more!

Linda Monroe, owner/chef

706-878-5308 | www.aintbs.com 43

A summer festival

Many civic clubs participate in festivals to raise funds for community projects.

Organizations • A.A. meetings Alcoholics Anonymous meets at 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at Helen Presbyterian Church. Call 706-878-2242.

• American Legion American Legion Roy Head Post 16 and Ladies Auxiliary Unit 16 meet at 7 p.m. the fourth Tuesday each month. Call Mike Allen at 706-865-4758.

• Booktalkers Booktalkers, a book discussion group for people who love to read and share their pleasure with other readers, meets at 1:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month at the Cleveland library. Call Cynthia Seaman, 706-865-6955.

• Boy Scouts There are several Boy Scout troops, Cub Scout packs and Explorer posts that meet in White County. For information, call Isaac Trotter, 706-717-0819.

• Cleveland Optimists The Cleveland-White County Optimist Club meets at 7:30 a.m. on the third Wednesday of each month (call for location). For information, contact Judy Collum, 706-348-6095.

• Democratic Party The White County Democratic Party meets at least four times a year. For times and locations, call Ted Doll, 706-8929207.

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• Family Connection White County Family Connection, a collaboration of social-service agencies, meets at 11 a.m. the third Friday of each month (except June, July and December) at Cleveland Worship Center fellowship hall. Call Judi Lawson, 706-865-3215.

• Girl Scouts For information about Girl Scout troops in White County, call Celena Williams, 706-395-8697.

• Hiking Club N.E. Georgia Mountain Hiking club meets at 7 p.m. the first Thursday of each month at the Clarkesville library. For information, call Delane Long, 706-7763176.

• Historical Society White County Historical Society meets at 7:30 p.m. on the first Thursday of the month at the Old Historic Courthouse in downtown Cleveland.

Call Judy Lovell, 706-865-2731, or Mark Johnson, 706-865-3669.

• Kiwanis Club of Cleveland Kiwanis Club of Cleveland meets at noon each Monday at Western Sizzlin.

Call Josh Barrett, 706-865-3101.

• Narcotics Anonymous Narcotics Anonymous and Nar-Anon meet at 7 p.m. Tuesdays and 7 p.m.

Fridays at First Presbyterian Church in Cleveland. Call 706-865-6499.

• Republican Party White County Republican Party meets at 6:30 p.m. the third Monday of the month at Community Bank & Trust. Call 706-219-3876.

• Rotary Club of Helen Helen Rotary Club meets at 7:15 a.m. on Wednesdays at the Nacoochee Valley Guest House. Call 706-878-3830.

• Rotary Club of White County Rotary Club of White County meets Tuesdays at noon at First Presbyterian Church. Call Billy Chism, 706-865-4718.

• Sautee Seniors Seniors group offers a program and a potluck meal at noon on the first Tuesday of each month at the Sautee Nacoochee Center, 706-878-3300.

• Woodmen of the World Woodmen of the World # 565 meets at 6 p.m. the second Thursday of the month at the lodge on Woodman Hall Road.

Call Faye Franks, 706-865-4133.

Volunteering • Community Helping Hands Clinic Community Helping Hands Clinic provides free medical care to uninsured patients. Volunteers are needed for medical and administrative work.Visit www.caringhandsclinic.org or call 706-865-1223.

• Caring Hands Ministries Caring Hands Ministries needs volunteers to help provide basic necessities for those in need. Visit www. caringhandsministries.com or call 706-219-1980.

• Charles Smithgall Humane Society The Charles Smithgall Humane Society and Adoption Center is open for animal adoptions from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1-4 p.m. on Sunday. Visit www. charlessmithgallhumane society.org or call 706-8654135.

• Circle of Hope Circle of Hope provides support for women and children who are domestic violence victims, including a shelter and thrift store. Visit www.gacircleofhope.org or call 706-776-4673.

• Cleveland Care Center Cleveland Care Center offers services and resources for pregnant women in need on Mondays and Fridays. Call 706-219-1678.

• Community Thrift Store The Community Thrift Store is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday. Donations accepted and volunteers needed.

Call Stephanie Abernathy at 706-865-0574 or e-mail thriftstore@hemc.net.

• Enotah Anti-Drug Coalition The Enotah Anti-Drug Coalition works to fight drug abuse in White County.

Call 706-969-0397 or e-mail wcmethtaskforce@yahoo.com.

• Enotah CASA Enotah Court-Appointed Special Advocates are volunteers appointed by a judge to speak on behalf of abused and neglected children in juvenile court. For information, call 706-8640300 or see www.enotahcasa. org.

Let’s Go to

Bernie’s Restaurant at Nacoochee Valley Guest House Serving the heart of the valley since 1989

Lunch and dinner a la carte Events for all occasions.

Open year round.

706-878-3830 • 2220 Hwy 17, Sautee • letsgotobernies.com

• Friends of Smithgall Woods State Park Friends of Smithgall Woods State Park meets at 3 p.m. the first Friday of every month in the park’s education cabin. Visit www. friendsofsmithgallwoods.org or call 706-878-3087.

• Friends of Unicoi State Park Friends of Unicoi State Park meets the second Monday of every month from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Visitors Center at Unicoi Lodge. Call 706-878-2201.

• Habitat for Humanity Habitat for Humanity is in need of volunteers and donations of household items.

Visit www.habitatnega.org, call 706-754-5313 or email volunteer@habitatnega.org.

032014-63266

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• Save the Animals of Northeast Georgia SANG rescues dogs and works to find them homes.

See www.sanganimalrescue. org or call 706-865-7452.

our serVice is the best!

• White County Mentoring White County Mentoring offers adult guidance and friendship to at-risk students.

Call Cassie Abernathy at 706-878-8778 or e-mail cassiesmail@windstream.net.

ALL VACUUM WHOLESALE

Largest seLection of aLL make Vacuums in georgia

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199 John Morrow Pkwy 770-503-1950

45

Index of Advertisers

Advantage Insurers, Inc. ...................................................... 45 Ain’t B’s Bakery & Confectionery ....................................... 43 All Vacuum Wholesale ........................................................ 45 Alpine Helen – White County Convention & Vistitors Bureau ....................................... 47 ARI ......................................................................................... 31 BabyLand General Hospital ................................................ 42 Barrett Funeral Home .......................................................... 13 Bernie’s Restaurant ............................................................... 45 Bethel Baptist Church .......................................................... 43 Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate – Barbara Hatcher ......................................... 42 Betty’s Country Store ........................................................... 23 Café Cancun .......................................................................... 35 Chad Knott, Attorney .......................................................... 34 Chase Sanitation Group....................................................... 35 Cleveland Family Dental Center ........................................ 21 Cottage Vineyard & Winery, The ....................................... 14 Creekside Deli ....................................................................... 25 David E. Barrett, Attorney at Law ........................................ 6 Erwin Rush .............................................................................. 6 Emmanuel Gospel Fellowship Church .............................. 43 Fancy Doodle Art & Wine House ...................................... 23 Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia....................... 4 Gray Fox Farm ...................................................................... 25 Habersham EMC .................................................................. 36 Halbrook Quality Roofing ................................................... 14 Hallco Community Credit Union ........................................ 7 Hansel & Gretel Candy Kitchen & Chocolate Factory ......................................................... 30 Hayes Automotive ................................................................ 39 Helen First Baptist Church.................................................. 43

46

Helendorf River Inn Suites .................................................. 34 Hillcrest Baptist Church ...................................................... 43 Historic Nacoochee Village ................................................. 15 Jack Bradley Agency............................................................. 13 Jacky Jones Ford.................................................................... 22 Jewels of the mine ................................................................. 33 Judy Bynum George ............................................................. 41 La Cabaña .............................................................................. 15 Lakeshore Mall...................................................................... 41 Mark of the Potter ................................................................ 31 Men on the Move.................................................................. 38 Mountain Laurel Antique Mall ........................................... 14 Mountain Valley Community Bank ................................... 48 Mt. Yonah Book Exchange .................................................. 25 Nacoochee United Methodist Church ............................... 43 Nacoochee Village Tavern & Pizzeria ................................ 15 Nora Mill Granary ................................................................ 40 North Georgia Technical College ....................................... 31 Old Sautee Market ................................................................ 38 Old Sautee Store.................................................................... 38 Piedmont Tractor & Equipment ......................................... 31 Rocks, Relics & Beads .......................................................... 42 Ropers Western Clothing .................................................... 23 Sautee Guns ........................................................................... 37 Sautee Nacoochee Center ...................................................... 4 Shoal Creek Baptist Church ................................................ 43 Tim’s Wooden Toys .............................................................. 33 United Community Bank ...................................................... 2 Visiting Angels ...................................................................... 30 Warwick Lawn Care ............................................................. 40 Wendell’s Country Restaurant ............................................ 13 White County Chamber of Commerce ............................. 47 White County Family YMCA ............................................. 36 White County Farm Bureau................................................ 15 White County Farmers Exchange ...................................... 43 White County Historical Society.......................................... 4 Willows Pottery, The ............................................................ 14 Woodlands Camp ................................................................. 22 Yonah Mtn. Treasures .......................................................... 30

Looking for a service?

Are you looking for a particular business?

We have the best referral list in the County.

The Chamber has over 500 members who are in good standing and ready to serve you! The chamber is also a great resource if you want to start a new business.

Our knowledgeable staff is always eager to help connect you to services within our membership.

MEMBERSHIP MATTERSMembership not only gets your business on the best referral list in the County, your support helps the Chamber with community enhancing activities. We help make White County a great place to live, work, and play.

Individuals and senior members are always welcome to join as well!

JOIN TODAY!

706-865-5356 122 N. Main Street • Cleveland, GA 30528 | www.whitecountychamber.org 47

10 Great Years of Serving our Community

Still the bank

you should choose.

Main Office

MVCBank.com

136 N. Main St., Cleveland, Ga. 706-348-6822