Scoop 2013

Scoop Get the

Everything you need to know about living in White County

2013-2014 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 ........................ 706-865-0911 OTHER SERVICES Animal Control ...................................... 706-219-2689 Building Inspector ................................. 706-865-6496 Burn Permits .......................................... 706-865-7813 Chamber of Commerce ......................... 706-865-5356 Clerk of Court ........................................ 706-865-2613 Commissioners’ Office .......................... 706-865-2235 Department of Family and Children’s Services .............. 706-865-3128 District Attorney .................................... 706-865-3306 Environmental Health ............................ 706-348-7698 Extension Office ................................... 706-865-2832 Health Department ............................... 706-865-2191

2 Get the Scoop 2013

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 Parks YMCA .................... 706-865-5275 White County Schools ........................... 706-865-2315

Scoop Get the

Welcome to the 2013 edition of Get the Scoop.

This is the magazine 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.

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

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!

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 n Amy Allen, production Wendy Williams, graphics n Doug Stutsman, sports editor Linda Erbele, reporter n Debbie Gilbert, reporter Sharon Bucek, advertising n Kathy Smith, advertising Billy Chism, editor and publisher

Great

&Crafts

Arts

shows in the mountains

2013 Show Schedule

YOUNG HARRIS SPRING SHOW • APRIL 20-21 Saturday 10am-5pm • Sunday 10am-4pm Mayors Park • Hwy 76 • Young Harris, GA

MOTHER’S DAY SHOW • MAY 11-12 Saturday 10am-5pm • Sunday 10am-4pm Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa 6321 US Hwy 76 • Young Harris, GA

SPRING ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL MAY 25-26

Saturday 10am-5pm • Sunday 10am-4pm Downtown Blairsville on the Square • Blairsville, GA

THE RIDGES LANDING • JUNE 8-9 Saturday 10am-5pm • Sunday 10am-4pm The Ridges Resort and Marina 3379 Hwy 76 W • Hiawassee, GA

AMICALOLA SUMMER ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW JULY 27-28 Saturday 10am-5pm • Sunday 10am-4pm Amicalola Falls 418 Amicalola Falls Lodge Rd. • Dawsonville, GA

YOUNG HARRIS ART FEST • AUG. 24-25 Saturday 10am-5pm • Sunday 10am-4pm Mayors Park • Hwy 76 • Young Harris, GA

UNICOI LABOR DAY ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW AUG. 31-SEPT. 1 Saturday 10am-5pm • Sunday 10am-4pm Unicoi State Park Lodge • 1788 Hwy 358 • Helen, GA

RABUN LEAF ART FEST • OCT. 26-27

Table of Contents 4

About the cover: Judy Bynum George nails it

5

HEMC celebrates 75 years with 75 great places

18

6

The way we were A brief history of White County

26

Helen celebrates a 100 years

The (railroad) ties that bind

From logging hamlet to Alpine Village

Clermont celebrates centennial

Numbers to Know 2 n Settling In 8 n White County Government 10-11 Cleveland City Government 12 n Helen City Government 13 Federal & State Officials 14 n Schools 15-16 n Map 17 n Recreation 24-25 Calendar 32-35 n Organizations 37 n Volunteer Opportunities 38

Saturday 10am-5pm • Sunday 10am-4pm Rabun County Civic Center 201 W Savannah St. • Clayton, GA

AMICALOLA FALLS HOLIDAY SHOW NOV. 22-24

Saturday 10am-5pm • Sunday 10am-4pm Amicalola Falls 418 Amicalola Falls Lodge Rd. • Dawsonville, GA

BRASSTOWN HOLIDAY SHOW NOV. 29-30, DEC. 1

Friday & Saturday 10am-5pm • Sunday 10am-3pm Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa 6321 US Hwy 76 • Young Harris, GA

2014 Show Schedule

AMICALOLA SWEETHEART SHOW • FEB. 8-9 418 Amicalola Falls Lodge Rd. • Dawsonville, GA

BRASSTOWN SWEETHEART • FEB. 15-16 Brasstown Valley Resort • Young Harris, GA

Always FREE Parking & FREE Admission Robin Roberts Promotions • 706-897-6179 www.robinrobertspromotions.com 2013 Get the Scoop 3

Judy Bynum George and her husband, David, stand in front of her painting “To Helen and Back,” at Watson Gallery in Atlanta.

About the Cover:

Judy Bynum George nails it

Every year, the White County News puts out the word that we are looking for local artwork that says “White County.”

We really don’t have any other criteria, except that the artist needs to live in White County.

This year, about a week before our deadline to receive entries in our contest, the front door to our office swung open and in walked Judy Bynum George, holding a huge painting and swaying back and forth.

As she tried to gain her balance, we grabbed the painting from her and leaned it against one of our desks.

Goodness, a Judy Bynum George painting in our office.

We loved it, but wondered if she had another that captured a scene we could all

4 Get the Scoop 2013

recognize. Yes, she said, but it was hanging in a gallery in Atlanta.

Could she e-mail us a digital photo of this painting?

Of course, she replied.

When it arrived, our staff knew this was the one. Titled “To Helen and Back,” the large painting showed the highway leading through the Nacoochee Village on the way to Helen. The two-story antique store was on the left.

Nora Mill was on the right.

The painting had that unmistakable Judy Bynum George look. Judy nailed it.

For that, we’re grateful.

But we’re more grateful for Judy, and what she means to our community.

So, thanks, Judy.

We know our readers will enjoy looking at your painting on the cover.

HEMC celebrates 75 years with a trip through Northeast Georg ia

H

by Emory Jones

abersham Electric Membership Cooperation turns 75 years old this year — although to me, they don’t look a day

over 70.

Being in business for 75 years is quite an achievement. In fact, the number “75” itself is amazing. If you remember your history, “75” was invented by the Greeks, who put it between 71 and 73. But after the Romans captured number 75 at the Battle of the Numerals, they renamed it LXXV and placed it between 74 and 76, where it sits today.

The Greeks are still upset over it, but what can they do?

Regardless of that, HEMC deserves our heartfelt thanks for 75 years of service to Northeast Georgia.

When you look at all this organization has done for this area, from electricity to fiber optics, well, it’s electrifying.

To celebrate their 75th anniversary, the HEMC folks asked me to work with noted artist John Kollock to create something memorable. Something that would give back to the community — something that would cause people to visit Northeast Georgia — something we would do for $75.

So we made something I think is pretty darn special. It’s called Experience Northeast Georgia — John Kollock’s Guide to 75 Special Places.

As the name implies, 75 “must see” spots were chosen. HEMC’s Susan Baker and I started by taking Ga. 75 north and then turning west on Alternate 75. We traveled all over Northeast Georgia until we found the perfect 75 places. I even wrote a little book with a 75-word description of each one.

John recorded his thoughts and insights about the 75 places to go with the book, and the rest is history — literally.

By drawing on John Kollock’s vast historical knowledge, unique insights and great, gravelly voice, HEMC has

allowed us to put together something remarkable.

Twelve (actually 13 — but I’m superstitious) of the 75 noteworthy spots are right here in White County: Loudsville Campground, Nora Mill, Helen, Cleveland, the Folk Pottery Museum, Crescent Hill Baptist Church, the Indian Mound, Nacoochee Valley, Smithgall Woods, Yonah Mountain, BabyLand, the Chattahoochee River and the Old Sautee Store. The other spots are in Habersham, Hall, Lumpkin, Rabun, Towns, Stephens and Union counties.

These and other places like Watts Mill, Tallulah Falls, Track Rock Gap and so many others come alive through John’s descriptions and insights. Imagine pulling up at Toccoa Falls or Woody Gap and having John fill you in on the place before you get out of the car. Or, you can let him guide you through it all from your easy chair.

I promise it just worked out this way, but each of the four CDs is about 75 minutes long. That makes five hours of extraordinary stories and history. The original background music by White County’s DeDe Vogt is unbelievably good.

You can buy this guide at more than 75 Northeast Georgia stores. I understand Yonah Mountain Treasures on Ga. 75 is offering a 75-cent discount to anyone over 75.

Congratulations to HEMC for bringing power to the people of Northeast Georgia for LXXV years!

Emory Jones is an author, humorist, advertising man, columnist and all-around good guy who lives with his wife, Judy, on Yonah Mountain in White County. His latest project with John Kollock will be available for purchase in April. n

John Kollock of Clarkesville reads the script for a new CD titled “Experience Northeast Georgia – John Kollock’s Guide to 75 Special Places.”

The CD set will include four CDs and a booklet.

2013 Get the Scoop 5

The annual Folk Life Festival is held each May at the African American Heritage Site at the Sautee Nacoochee Center

county was named White after the state representative from Newton County who assisted Shelton in getting the bill passed. The county seat, which was a small community known as Mt. Yonah, would be named Cleveland after Gen. Benjamin Cleveland, a landowner in Nacoochee.

The original BabyLand General Hospital was The County of White was created Dec. 22, located on Underwood Street in Cleveland. This 1857. Later in 1863, a small portion of Lumpkin photo was taken in 1979.

County was added to the western side.

The historic courthouse was completed in 1859 and commands the attention of anyone coming into Cleveland. It is now the home for the White County Historical Society.

The War Between the States had its effects on the newly created county. Ninety men met at Denton’s Spring in August

by Shirley McDonald 1861 to form a company. They marched from Mossy Creek Campground on the third Monday in August with soldiers from he Cherokee Indians once lived in this area, conadjoining counties. tent and happy. All that is left of them today are the After the Civil War, the county took on a new life when names of rivers, and communities. lumber mills were erected in the northern end, where the town In the early 1800s, white settlers came into of Helen was chartered in 1913. The Byrd-Matthews Lumber the northern part of the county because of cheap Company was responsible for bringing the Gainesville-Northland. Then came the discovery of gold in 1828, which forever western Railroad into the county. changed the area.

Along came World War I and World War II. Roy Head was For more than a century, gold was mined here, and one-third the first Georgia boy killed in World War I. He was from Cleveof Georgia’s gold came from this county. The gold rush led to land, and a memorial bridge was built on U.S. 129 North in his disputes with the Indians over land, eventually leading to the honor.

Cherokees’ forced removal in the 1838 “Trail of Tears.”

Truett-McConnell College was established in Cleveland so This area was part of Habersham County until William B. that mountain children could receive an education. This was a Shelton introduced a bill to create White County. The new

The way we were A brief history of White County

T

express Kenneth J. Kliewer, DDS mart FAmily Dentistry Open 24 Hours

Discounted Beer & Wine #2 258 Main Street Cleveland, GA

6 Get the Scoop 2013

Gas Diesel Express Pay #5 1955 Hwy 129 South Cleveland, GA

Creating beautiful smiles in White County for over 20 years 471 S. Main St. Suite 110 • Cleveland Stonegate Professional Park

706-865-0353 • Fax: 877-811-4753

Baptist facility, named for two Baptist leaders from Hiawassee.

Lundy Harris, whose wife, Cora, wrote a book, The Circuit Rider’s Wife, was a visiting preacher at Loudsville Camp Meeting in the early 1900s. This book was the theme for the 20th Century Fox movie I’d Climb The Highest Mountain, which was filmed here in 1950.

By 1969, Helen was almost a ghost town. The town leaders, assisted by artist John Kollock, dreamed of it becoming an Alpine village. By 1971, this was accomplished by the townspeople themselves. Helen is now a major tourist attraction.

White County is known for its pottery, which is still made and sold by members of several families. The Meaders family became nationally known when a face jug made by Lanier Meaders was placed in the Smithsonian.

Unicoi State Park was created from the mountains in the northern section of the county, and Unicoi Lodge was built in 1973. It continues to be one of the most visited state parks in Georgia. Smithgall Woods State Park, also in the northern part of the county, was established in 1994 when businessman Charles Smithgall Jr. donated the land and facilities upon his death.

Xavier Roberts gave birth to the Cabbage Patch Kids, dolls which had to be “adopted” rather than purchased, in 1978. He put White County on the national map.

BabyLand General Hospital is still one of the most visited attractions in the county, though it moved out of downtown Cleveland and into a new home on NOK Drive in 2009.

White County’s natural beauty has helped it become a destination for new residents, with a population reaching 27,144 in 2011.

The lifestyle is slower in White County, and the people are kind, friendly and proud of their heritage.

What could be better?

Jim Wilkins, center, oversees production at the Wilco Hosiery Mill in Helen around 1948. (Historical photos of Helen provided by Images of America: Helen by David Greear and Chris Brooks)

Shirley McDonald is White County’s official historian. n 2013 Get the Scoop 7

Settling In Information you need to know about getting 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 113 North Brook Street in Cleveland, 706-8652225. Office hours are from 8 a.m. to 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 706-865-2442.

Satellite service is also available from DIRECTV, 855-678-2834, and Dish Network, 706-865-1956.

• DRIVER’S LICENSE INFORMATION

The gazebo at Lucille’s Mountain Top Inn & Spa offers a great place for guests to relax.

8 Get the Scoop 2013

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.

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 fair-market value) value of the property for state, county and school tax purposes.

Applications 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 in the Allen L. Mauney Sr. Community Services Building, 706-865-5328.

• INTERNET

The two main local providers of Internet service are Windstream (706-8652442) and Habersham EMC (706-8654362). 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) Jason Dyer, postmaster 7976 S. Main Street 706-878-2422 Sautee Nacoochee (30571) 93 Ga. 255 North 706-878-2712

• 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 from 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Monday-Friday and 9 a.m. to 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. to 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, 800-251-6412.

cedures, contact the White County elections superintendent at 706-865-4141.

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 – White County Parks YMCA, 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, 706-865-0788.

Sewer services generally are not available outside the city limits. For septictank permits, call White County Environmental Health, 706-348-7698.

• 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 pro2013 Get the Scoop 9

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

White County Administration 59 S. Main Street 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 Grand Jury Room of the White County Courthouse. A work session is held at 4:30 p.m. on the last Monday of the month in the same location.

White County Courthouse

10 Get the Scoop 2013

Edwin Nix

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

Norm Alexander

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

Craig Bryant

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

Cindy Cannon

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

Shanda Smallwood Murphy County Clerk 706-865-2235 smurphy@ whitecounty.net

Dena Adams

Clerk of Superior Court 706-865-2613

White County Government

Historic

OLD SAUTEE STORE An original general store serving locals and travelers alike with Quality Goods since 1872

706-878-2281

Garrison Baker Probate Judge and elections superintendent 706-865-4141

Judge Joy Parks

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

Ricky Barrett Coroner 706-865-3101

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

Open Daily 706-878-2281

www.oldsauteestore.com • Hwy 17 & Hwy 255 • Sautee

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

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

Judge Murphy C. Miller 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

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

Alcoholic Beverage Commission: Jane Ann Allison, board chair Erford Harrison Dickie Nix Jo Ann Carroll, alternate Board of Health: Nadine Wardenga, board chair Roger Fitzpatrick Lyn Holcomb Jennifer King David Murphy Emmett Shotts Don Stanley

610949-G

Judge Stanley Gunter

Planning Commission: Charlie Thomas, board chair R.K. Ackermann Buddy Belflower Linda Dixon Larry Freeman Ronnie London Bob Oliver

2013 Get the Scoop 11

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

Annie Sutton

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

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

Edward Young

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

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

John Foster

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

Ricky Pruitt

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

Downtown Development Authority: Terry Goodger, chairman Bradley Greene Sam Pelletier Kevin Stanley Gene White

Alcohol License Review Board: Bea Chambers Garland Lovell

Old Fashioned Home-Style Cooking

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.

Kevin Stanley John Burrows (alternate) CLEVELAND APPOINTED BOARDS

Connie Tracas

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

Service Matters

ARI

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

100 years of combined experience

Dine-In • Take-Out

Drive-Thru

Mon. & Tues. • 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Wed.-Fri. • 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Steve Sunday • 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Owners, & Terry Hooper

706-219-1270 • 5 miles east of Cleveland on Hwy 115 12 Get the Scoop 2013

» Timing Belt Replacements » Hybrid Service

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

City of Helen Government

Lynn Whitener

Mayor PO Box 571, Helen 706-969-0320 (cell)

Dona K. Burke

Jeff Ash

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

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

Judy Holloway

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

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 • Fred Garmon • David Greear

Marylin Chastain City Clerk 706-878-2733

Jim Couch

Police Chief 706-878-2722

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

Functional stoneware pottery made on site daily

Paint your own Pottery

shopping

Nora Mill Granary • Habersham Winery The Red Door • The Willow Pottery Nacoochee Antiques • Jumpin Goat Coffee Roasters

706-878-1344

7275 S. Main St., Helen • thewillowspottery.com From Quiet Elegance to Rustic Charm

The

Red Door

• Lamps

• Jewelry • Linens

• Clothes

706.878-9957 • villagereddoor.com • 7275 S. Main St., Helen

cabins and outdoors Unicoi Outfitters Nacoochee Cabins Wildwood Outfitters ZipnTime (North Georgia’s newest zipline)

dining

Nacoochee Grill The Village Tavern

7025 S. Main St. Helen 1/2 mile south of Helen 706-878-1800 nacoocheevillage.com 2013 Get the Scoop 13

Federal & State Off icials 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

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 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

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

14 Get the Scoop 2013

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

White County Board of Education

Jeff Wilson, Superintendent

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

Kendyl Brock Hunter

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.

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

Barry Vandiver

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 the Tuesdays immediately preceding the Thursday meetings.

White County Public Schools Jack P. Nix Primary School

(grades K-2), Ga. 115 West, 706-865-6935 Stacie Ward, principal

Mt. Yonah Elementary School

(grades K-5), Duncan Bridge Road, 706-865-3514 Dana Magill, principal

Mossy Creek Elementary School

(grades K-5), Westmoreland Road, 706-865-5000 Jennifer King, principal

White County Intermediate School

(grades 3-5), Tesnatee Gap

Valley Road, 706-865-1037 Shann Cash, principal

White County Middle School

(grades 6-8), Old Blairsville Hwy., 706-865-4060 Stephen Gill, 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

Barrett Funeral Home & Yonah ViewMemorial

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

“Dedicated to the Families We Serve” Since 1976 We offer pre-funeral planning Veterans receive a discount with the purchase of second plot.

White County Middle School

118 N. Brook Street • Cleveland 706-865-3101 • www.barrettfh.com 2013 Get the Scoop 15

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 self-paced and meet in the evenings year-round.

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.

Private schools • 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 770-983-9433.

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, four-year and graduate degrees. Visit www. brenau.edu or call 770-5346299.

• The University of North Georgia is a public university in Dahlonega with campuse locations in Cumming, Dahlonega, Gainesville and Oconee. It offers two-year

and four-year degrees, graduate degrees and certificate programs. Visit www.ung.edu or call 706-864-1800.

• Piedmont College is a private university in Demorest

with a campus in Athens.

It offers bachelor’s degrees, graduate degrees and certificate programs. Visit www. piedmont.edu or 706-7783000.

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2013 Get the Scoop 17

Helen celebrates 100 years From logging hamlet to Alpine Village

H

by Linda Erbele

Aug. 13, with a birthday party and celebration. The last event is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 8, and will take in the 1980s through the 1990s and a little of the future, Ashe said.

The story of Helen’s re-invention of itself as an Alpine town has been shared around the country, but many are less aware of

elen is celebrating its centennial this year with street dances, banners, parties, fireworks and history talks.

“The General Assembly recognized Helen in 1913 as what they called a township back then,” said lifelong resident David Greear.

He has a copy of the act dated August 18, 1913, incorporating the town of Helen.

Celebrations, including a floating parade on the river, will be scheduled throughout 2013.

The Helen Arts & Heritage Council is sponsoring presentations throughout the year on the various stages of Helen’s history.

“The first one is going to be about the railroad and the lumber company,” said Paula Ashe, a member of the Helen Arts & Heritage Council.

That event is scheduled for Tuesday, April 9, at the Helen Arts & Heritage Gallery at 25 Chattahoochee Strasse. Manufacturing and the “quiet years” will be covered in a presentation Main Street in Helen draws tourists Tuesday, June 11. from throughout the Southeast during The Alpine years and the conversion to Oktoberfest. the Alpine motif will be highlighted Tuesday,

18 Get the Scoop 2013

d Family Clevelan enter dental C

“For A Bright New Smile”

The Chattahoochee River runs through downtown Helen.

its prior history.

The area was inhabited by Creek and then Cherokee Indians until the discovery of gold in North Georgia led to the Trail of Tears. An influx of gold miners had an impact on the area, but they moved on within a few years.

By the late part of the 19th century, Henry Bagley of Cincinnati, Ohio, had bought some 36,000 acres of land in what is now White, Lumpkin, Habersham and Rabun counties. In 1910, Bagley sold his land to A.R. Byrd of St. Louis, Mo. Byrd formed a partnership with C.D. Matthew of Sikeston, Mo., with the intent of timbering the mountains of North Georgia. They formed the Gainesville & Northwest Railroad, placing lines from Gainesville to the valley that was to become Helen.

Just south of the little village of Robertstown, the company built a sawmill, utilizing what was planned to be the largest bandsaw east of the Mississippi. It was expected to turn out 75,000 board feet of lumber a day.

Photos of the sawmill, railroad and logging operation are published in Helen, a history book about the area, by David Greear and Chris Brooks (Arcadia, 2012, $21.99) The town was named, according to legend, for the daughter of R.M. McCombs, president of the Byrd-Matthews Corporation.

“The sawmill was where Wendy’s and United Community Bank are now,” Greear said. “The mill pond was where the Helendorf River Inn is now.”

Greear said the train depot was located on the property that is now Paul’s Steakhouse, opposite the mill pond. → By 1918, the finances of Byrd-Matthews were suf-

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

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Before and during the Great Depression, most agriculture in and around Helen consisted of subsistence farming. (Historical photos of Helen provided by Images of America: Helen by David Greear and Chris Brooks)

In 1938, the steel bridge that had served Helen since the early days was replaced with a concrete bridge.

The Pure Oil service station in Helen, built by Bob Taylor, featured uniformed attendants who would fill the tank, check the oil and wash the windshield.

fering, and the operation was taken over by the Morse Brothers Land and Lumber Company.

“They had more experience in timbering in the mountains,” Greear said.

His grandfather, John Fields Greear Sr., came to the area in the 1920s as a civil engineer to survey rail lines for the Morse Brothers.

Greear said the Morse Brothers closed the mill in 1931, dismantled it and shipped it to Mexico. Part of the railroad was

Betty’s Country Store ating Celebr

s 40 year 1973-201

Helen’s Oldest and Most Unique Store

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established in 1973 in the quaint little Alpine Village of Helen

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Pete Hodkinson, right, died on May 18, 1976, on the eve of the third annual Helen-to-the-Atlantic Balloon Race.

The lobby of the Mountain Ranch Hotel in Helen. The hotel burned down in 1945 and was never rebuilt.

sold to a metal salvage company in 1933.

During this time, a Lebanese immigrant, Charlie Maloof, had settled in Helen and was operating the commissary for Morse Brothers.

“He wound up with the store himself,” said June Parks, Maloof’s niece.

He bought what remained of the sawmill and operated it on a smaller scale, cutting lumber for flooring. But Maloof also played a major part in the economic success of the area.

“He realized that people were coming to Helen, but things were starting to dry up,” Parks said. “There needed to be more for people to do. So he lobbied several governors to create the Unicoi Lake and park area. He convinced (then Governor) Herman Talmadge to set aside the money for the park.”

Paula Ashe said that Maloof contributed in many ways to the community.

“He bought up a lot of the real estate when the lumber → people left and he would help people get into a busi-

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Want to learn more about Helen history?

In 2013, attend one of the presentations in downtown Helen at the Helen Arts & Heritage Center.

• Tuesday, April 9: The rail and lumber years Oktoberfest 2012 brought thousands of tourists to Helen.

she said.

In addition to the state park, he lobbied for better roads for the area.

The Alpine era began in Helen in 1969, and that will be celebrated, too.

The city has commissioned the design of a centennial seal

in honor of the anniversary.

“We plan on having the centennial seal on the banners and the banners will go up on the street signs and maybe the city limits signs,” said Jerry Elkins, city manager.

There will be a couple of street dances and a river

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parade tentatively planned for August 2013, as well as extracelebratory fireworks on the Fourth of July.

To find out more about the Helen centennial celebration, call the Helen city hall at 706-878-2733 or visit www. helenga.org. n

• Tuesday, June 11: The quiet years and the start of manufacturing • Tuesday, Aug. 13: The Alpine years • Tuesday, Oct. 8: The 80s, the 90s and the future of Helen

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706-348-8236 2013 Get the Scoop 23

Recreation Fun places to play in White County • 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

610973w

• 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

round-trip. 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.

High Shoals Trail: Hike to 50-foot High Shoals Falls (2.7-mile round-trip). Take Ga. 75 north from Helen for 11.4 miles. Turn right on Forest Service Road 283 at the High Shoals sign. Go east on this road for 1.5 miles.

Horse Trough Falls Trail: Short, easy walk to the falls. Take Ga. 75 north from Helen for 8 miles to Unicoi Gap. Turn left onto Forest Service Road 44 (Wilkes Creek Road). Go 5.4 miles to a sharp curve and take the right fork. Go 0.2 miles, ford the stream and follow blazes.

Raven Cliffs Trail: 2.5 miles to the falls (5 miles round-trip). Entire

24 Get the Scoop 2013

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: 2.5-mile, 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 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.

Fun for the entire family.

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 Smithgall Woods State Park.

For more information, visit the website www.GeorgiaStateParks.org/SmithgallWoods or call 706-878-3087.

Unicoi State Park and 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. Craft lovers should not miss the lodge gift shop specializing in handmade quilts and local pottery.

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.

The school district, 706-8652315, White County Parks YMCA, 706-865-5275, and Truett-McConnell College, 706-865-2134, 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 – 706865-4111 or www.coleman. urjcamps.org Strong Rock Camp – 706348-1533 or www.strongrockcamp.com Woodlands Camp – 706865-0853 or www.woodlandscamp.org

• Tubing on the Chattahoochee River: Cool River Tubing, 800896-4595 or www.coolrivertubing.com Flea Market Tubing, 706878-PINK (7465) or www. helentubing.com

In addition to having the traditional sport leagues for kids of all ages, the White County Parks 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/whitecounty or call 706-865-5275.

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

• White County Family YMCA: The White County Parks YMCA provides a variety of recreation activities for youth, teens and adults.

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The Gainesville-Northwestern Railroad engine #203 pulls into the Clermont Depot.

The (railroad) ties that bind

Clermont, just south of White County, celebrates centennial

by Debbie Gilbert

The little town of Clermont, Georgia, is located at the northern edge of Hall County – but it’s so closely tied to White County that it might as well have an honorary membership. Genealogy knows no boundaries, and a number of local families have relatives on both sides of the Hall/White county line.

This year, they have a special reason to celebrate: August 11, 2013, will mark 100 years since the town of Clermont was incorporated. The centennial provides an opportunity to look back on the community’s colorful history. First of all, the name: People started referring to the place as “Clermont” (possibly a reference to “clear mountains”) around 1906. But before that, the town was called “Dip.” Why? No one really knows, but the prevailing theory is that the postmaster chose the word, thinking that “dip” was a nice short word that could be written quickly.

However, by the time the Georgia General Assembly passed a law allowing the incorporation of Clermont in 1913, “Dip” had been supplanted by a more dignified name.

The town’s official formation coincided with an event that literally put Clermont on the map. In 1912, the Byrd-Matthews Lumber Co. – based in the town of Helen, in the Northeast Georgia mountains – began building the Gainesville & North-

26 Get the Scoop 2013

western Railroad.

Eventually, the track ran 35 miles, from the bustling city of Gainesville, in the middle of Hall County, up through Clermont and on to Cleveland, Helen and Robertstown. The railroad’s sole purpose was to transport the timber that was being logged in the virgin forests around Helen.

But it proved to be an economic goldmine for towns along the route. Businesses soon popped up to serve the people who came through on the train.

“It was a booming town, for a while,” said Mary Ellen Rogers, 85, who has lived in Clermont her entire life. “We had two banks, a general store, a doctor’s office.”

People were also drawn to Clermont by Chattahoochee High School, which was established in 1890 and had ties to Mercer University.

“People came from all over to attend the school, because it was accredited,” Rogers said. “A dormitory was built so students could live here.”

The school and dorm are gone now, but the gym still stands.

It now houses Clermont’s volunteer-run library and history center.

The train depot was located downtown, where the city’s basketball court is now. Across from the depot was the → famous Clermont Hotel, which is being renovated with

Louie Gailey, 73, and his dog, Jackson, stand in front of the Clermont Hotel, built in 1907.

Louie and his wife, Sylvia, have resided in Clermont most of their lives, and for the last 50 years have lived next door to the hotel.

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706-219-0258

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Located 1 mile south of Walmart light on 129 South Hours: 10 am - 6 pm Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 10 am - 4 pm Wed & Sat 2013 Get the Scoop 27

The late Clay E. Gailey of Clermont donated this property for a downtown park.

plans to convert it into a restaurant/retail venue.

But it’s been a long time since Clermont was a center of commerce.

“A lot of the businesses went away after the train was gone,” Rogers said.

“After all the virgin timber was cut in Helen, there was no need for a train.”

The sawmills shut down in the late 1920s, and by 1934, most of the railroad tracks had been taken up.

Still, many families remained in

Clermont because they had decided it was a nice place to live.

“It’s a sweet little town,” said Rogers.

“Everybody helps each other.”

Sandra Cantrell, president of → the Clermont Historical Society,

Family Restaurant 706-865-0411 • eatcafecancun.com

- Open Daily -

6:00 am-10:00 pm Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner

Mention this ad and get 20% off entire meal.

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28 Get the Scoop 2013

701662-2

Not to be combined with any other offers or discounts.

Clermont’s main street is off the beaten path, a few miles west of U.S. 129 South.

Clermont: Celebrating 100 years 770-983-3702 Monday-Wednesday 6:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Thursday-Saturday 6:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m

Dine In • Drive Thru Take Out 6643 Cleveland Hwy. • Clermont

CAIN EQUIPMENT

Bush Hog • Class Great Plains • Krone Haybuster • Kodiak Longhorn • Luck Now Circle W Trailers

770-983-3608 • www.cainequipment.com 100 Cleveland Hwy. Clermont

Mountain Fresh Creamery “Milk so fresh the cow doesn’t even know it’s gone!”

All Farm Fresh Non-Homogenized Dairy Products • Whole/Chocolate Milk • Butter • Buttermilk • Fresh Ground Beef • Ice Cream & Sausage

770-983-1MOO

Strickland & Sons Funeral Home “The Finest Name In Funeral Service”

Family Owned & Operated

260 Main Street • Clermont 770-983-7351

Shopping & Bridal Registry available in store and online

770-539-9093

www.IronAccents.com

6415 Cleveland Hwy. Clermont, GA

www.mountainfreshcreamery.com Visit our store and processing plant at 6615 Cleveland Hwy., Clermont

Wauka Mountain

Family Dentistry For A Healthy Smile Lora Savage, DMD 5300 Cleveland Highway Clermont, Georgia 30527 (770) 983-9496

said the town is quiet and laid-back, and has a charm all its own, “I don’t think it’s changed much over the years,” she said. “It’s kept its character.”

Almost 900 people currently live in the city limits of Clermont, and they are fiercely protective of their community. When Hall County government reneged on a promise to build a library in town, the residents created a library of their own.

They acknowledge that Clermont is a “bedroom community,” but they don’t mind driving elsewhere for jobs and shopping.

“I go to Cleveland to shop most of the time,” said Cantrell. “It’s only half as far from here to Cleveland as it is to Gainesville.”

Clermont is not generally thought of as a tourist destination. But every September, residents love to show off their town during the biggest event of the year, Clermont Days.

In 2013, the festival is scheduled for Sept. 20-21. As always, it will feature a parade, food vendors, crafts, an antique car and tractor show, and more.

“We have an amazing fireworks display,” said Cantrell. “We typically get 3,000 to 5,000 people attending during the two days of the festival.”

Though plans have not been finalized, town officials want to incorporate centennial events into the 2013 Clermont Days.

“We want it to be a unique celebration this year,” Cantrell said. “We’ve been collecting local history information over the past few years, with written documents, photos and video. We hope to put some of that on display.”

More details about Clermont Days will be announced as the festival approaches. For information, call the Clermont town hall at 770-983-7568. n

Concord Baptist Church today.

Concord Baptist Church in the early years.

The Griffin Bros. building today.

Griffin Bros. cotton house in the early 1920s. Above, the same building today.

This store owned by Griffin Bros. sold furniture, caskets and Standard Oil & Gasoline in 1926.

30 Get the Scoop 2013

The front of the Clermont Hotel, in a recent photo. The hotel is being renovated to house a restaurant and retail establishments.

W o r shi p Come

with us

United Methodist in White County

COMPLETE SEED FEED AND FARM CENTER

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

ChattahooChee Alt 75 N • Helen 706-778-4858

MoSSy CreeK 2154 Post Rd • Cleveland 706-865-3720

Cleveland 112 e. Kytle St. Cleveland 706-865-2228

MoUnt PleaSant Mt Pleasant Church rd Cleveland 706-778-5032

loUdSville 1493 Hwy 75Alt • Cleveland 706-865-6054

naCooChee 1371 hwy 17 P.O. Box 426 • Sautee 706-878-3263

MaCedonia Corner of hwy 254 & 384 Cleveland 706-865-1917

traviS ChaPel 387 Hood St • P.O. Box 205 Cleveland 706-865-1813

Open Hearts, Open Doors, Open Minds 2013 Get the Scoop 31

Calendar of Events MARCH

23 – Magical Easter Eggstravaganza, Babyland General Hospital & White County Chamber of Commerce. 706-865-2171 or 706-8655356, www.cabbagepatchkids.com 23- Contra Dance, 6:30 p.m.-11 p.m., SNCA Historic Gym. Potluck dinner at 6:30 p.m., dance begins at 8 p.m. 706878-3300, www.snca.org 30- 24th Annual Trout Tournament, Helen Chamber of Commerce, 706-8781908, www.helenchamber.com

APRIL

1-30- Bingo every Tuesday & Friday, 7 p.m, Festhalle, 706-878-1908 or 706878-2181, www.helenchamber.com 6- Springfest 2013, 6-11 p.m., Festhalle. Helen Chamber of Commerce, 706-878-1908, www.helenchamber.com 19- Clean up White County Day, 8 a.m. White County Chamber of Commerce, 706-865-5356 20- Youth Fishing Days at Buck Shoals, 8 a.m.-noon, third Saturday of each month through September. Children and their special “big person” can fish in a stocked pond. No registration required.

706-878-3087 27- Taste of Sautee, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sautee Village. Wine, art, food and music festival. 706-878-0144 27- Contra Dance, 6:30-11 p.m., SNCA Historic Gym. Potluck dinner at 6:30 p.m., dance begins at 8 p.m. 706878-3300, www.snca.org

MAY

1-31- Bingo every Tuesday & Friday, 7 p.m, Festhalle, 706-878-1908 or 706878-2181, www.helenchamber.com 4- Winefest, Habersham Winery. 706878-9463 4- Twelve Rivers Art Festival, SNCA, 706-878-3300, www.snca.org 16- Business Showcase, 2-7 p.m., Yonah Bowl & Skate, 706-865-5356 17-19- Southern Worthersee (SoWo) VW/Audi Car Show, presented by H2O Tuning VW Audi Club, Helendorf River Inn, 706-878-2271 18- Youth Fishing Days at Buck Shoals, 8 a.m-noon, third Saturday of

32 Get the Scoop 2013

each month through September. 706-8783087.

18- Contra Dance, 6:30-11 p.m., SNCA Historic Gym. Potluck dinner at 6:30 p.m., dance begins at 8 p.m. 706878-3300, www.snca.org 23- “Dreamwork” Gallery Exhibit opening reception, 5-7 p.m., Helen Arts & Heritage Center, 706-878-3933 www. helenarts.org 25- Bavarianfest, 6-11 p.m., Festhalle. Helen Chamber of Commerce, 706-878-1908, www.helenchamber.com 25- Art in the Park, Unicoi State Park. (Last Saturday of the month, May-October). 1-800-573-9659, www.

GeorgiaStateParks.org 25- 24th Annual Pig Out Barbecue, fundraiser for the volunteer firefighters, noon-5 p.m., SNCA. For more information, contact Capt. Roger Williams, 706-878-9349 30-June 1- 40th Annual Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race, Helendorf Inn, 706-878-2271 31 – June 2- 13th Annual US Riders News Reunion Run and 7th Annual Southeast Victory Run, motorcycle ride, Helen Riverside Park, 478-237-3761

JUNE

Every Saturday through OctoberSaturday Evening Music Concert Series, Unicoi State Park. Musicians perform each Saturday at 8 p.m. 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 through mid-November. These programs welcome “pass-the-hat” donations for the musicians. 1-800-573-9659, www.

GeorgiaStateParks.org 1-30- Bingo every Tuesday & Friday, 7 p.m., Festhalle, 706-878-1908 or 706878-2181, www.helenchamber.com 1- 40th Annual Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race, Helendorf Inn, 706-878-2271 8- Contra Dance, 6:30-11 p.m., SNCA Historic Gym. Potluck dinner at 6:30 p.m., dance begins at 8 p.m. 706878-3300, www.snca.org

7-9- Northeast Georgia 2013 Arts Tour. www.artstour.org 10-14- Family Camp, 9 a.m.-noon, Unicoi State Park. Attend classes or workshops while enjoying time with your family. Pre-registration required. 1-800573-9659, www. GeorgiaStateParks.org 15- Youth Fishing Days at Buck Shoals, 8 a.m.-noon, third Saturday of each month through September. 706-8783087.

15- Kids Day at the Park, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Smithgall Woods. No registration required. 706-878-3087 15- SummerFest Lawn Party, SNCA, 706-878-3300, www.snca.org 21, 22, 23- Community Chorale Concert, SNCA, 706-878-3300, www. snca.org 27-29- Junior Ranger Camp, 9 a.m-3 p.m., Smithgall Woods. Register in advance, 706-878-3087.

JULY

Every Saturday through OctoberSaturday Evening Music Concert Series, Unicoi State Park. 1-800-5739659, www.GeorgiaStateParks.org 1-31- Bingo every Tuesday & Friday, 7 p.m., Festhalle, 706-878-1908 or 706878-2181, www.helenchamber.com 1-7- 4th of July Celebration, Babyland General Hospital. Costume characters, candy. 706-865-2171, www. cabbagepatchkids.com 4- July 4th Mountain Style, Unicoi State Park. Join us for watermelon eatin’ and seed-spittin’ contest, sack races, hoedown, and fun for the entire family.

24- Gold Fever, 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. 706878-3087 24- Contra Dance, 6:30-11 p.m., SNCA Historic Gym. Potluck dinner at 6:30 p.m., dance begins at 8 p.m. 706-8783300, www.snca.org 31- 5th Annual GarlicFest, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Loganberry Heritage Farm. Annual celebration of the garlic harvest.

Cooking demos, tastings, live music, creative food. 706-3486068, www.loganberryheritagefarm.com 31- Folk Pottery Show & Sale, Folk Pottery Museum, 706878-3300, www.snca.org

SEPTEMBER

Debbielee Whelchel performs at a festival in Sautee Nacoochee.

1-800-573-9659, www.GeorgiaStateParks.org 4- Annual Fireworks at Dusk, behind the Alpine Village Shoppes, 706-878-2181 www.helenga.org 11-21 - Headwaters (community story play), Thursdays – Sundays, SNCA, 706-878-3300, www.snca.org 18- “HOT HOT HOT” Gallery Exhibit opening reception, 5-7 p.m., Helen Arts & Heritage Center, 706-878-3933, www.helenarts.org 19-28- Georgia Mountain Fair, Hiawassee, 706-896-4191 20- Youth Fishing Days at Buck Shoals, 8 a.m.-noon, third Saturday of each month through September. 706-8783087.

26-27- Folk Life Festival, Unicoi State Park. 1-800-5739659, www.GeorgiaStateParks.org 26-27- 9th Annual Show and Shine for Cystic Fibrosis Open Car Show, 639 Edelweiss Strasse, Helen. “Cruise-In”, Friday, July 26, car show and awards on Saturday, July 27. All proceeds will be donated to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. 706-795-2264 27- Contra Dance, 6:30-11 p.m., SNCA Historic Gym. Potluck dinner at 6:30 p.m., dance begins at 8 p.m.706-8783300, www.snca.org

Every Saturday through October- Saturday Evening Music Concert Series, Unicoi State Park. Musicians perform each Saturday at 8 p.m. 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 through mid-November. These programs welcome “passthe-hat” donations for the musicians. 1-800-573-9659 www.

GeorgiaStateParks.org 3, 6- Bingo every Tuesday & Friday, 7 p.m., Festhalle, 706878-1908 or 706-878-2181, www.helenchamber.com 12-15, 19-22, 26-Oct. 27- 43rd Annual Oktoberfest, Festhalle. Helen’s biggest celebration. German music, →

AUGUST

Every Saturday through October- Saturday Evening Music Concert Series, Unicoi State Park. 1-800-573-9659 www.GeorgiaStateParks.org “Boomers Club” in August, Unicoi State Park. Baby Boomers come and enjoy learning dance lessons, card games, art classes and more. Dates and times TBA. 1-800-573-9659 www.GeorgiaStateParks.org 1-31- Bingo every Tuesday & Friday, 7 p.m., Festhalle, 706-878-1908 or 706-878-2181 www.helenchamber.com 17- Youth Fishing Days at Buck Shoals, 8 a.m.-noon, third Saturday of each month through September. No registration required. 706-878-3087.

2013 Get the Scoop 33

Calendar of Events SEPTEMBER (continued) dancing, food and drinks. Enjoy waltzes, polkas and the chicken dance. 706878-1908 or 706-878-2181, www. helenchamber.com 14- Smithgall Women for the Woods at Buck Shoals. Share the great outdoors with like-minded women on this beautiful unopened state park. Choose between classes in canoeing/kayaking, hiking, birding, firearms, and more.

Register in advance at Smithgall Woods, 706-878-3087 14- Fall Fest/Birthday Party/35th Anniversary of Babyland General Hospital/30th Anniversary of licensed Cabbage Patch Kids, Babyland General Hospital. 706-865-2171, www. cabbagepatchkids.com 14- Oktoberfest Parade, noon, downtown Helen. Celebrate the opening of Oktoberfest. The “tapping of the keg” follows the parade. 706-878-1908, www. helenchamber.com 21- Youth Fishing Days at Buck

Shoals, 8 a.m.-12 p.m, third Saturday of each month through September. No registration required. 706-878-3087.

21- Contra Dance, 6:30-11 p.m., SNCA Historic Gym. Potluck dinner at 6:30 p.m., dance begins at 8 p.m. 706878-3300, www.snca.org 27, 28- Sautee Jamboree Music Festival, SNCA, 706-878-3300, www. snca.org 26- 2013 Helen Arts & Heritage Center Juried Competition opening reception, 5-7 p.m., Helen Arts & Heritage Center, 706-878-3933, www. helenarts.org 28- Agri-Fest/Country Market & Pottery Comes to Town, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Downtown Cleveland. 706-865-5356, www.whitecountychamber.org 28- Outdoor Adventure Day, Unicoi State Park. 1-800-573-9659, www.

GeorgiaStateParks.org

OCTOBER

Every Saturday through October-

Saturday Evening Music Concert Series, Unicoi State Park. 1-800-5739659, www.GeorgiaStateParks.org 1-27- 43rd Annual Oktoberfest, Festhalle.706-878-1908 or 706-8782181. www.helenchamber.com 5, 12, 19, 26- Hiking in Helen, every Saturday in October, 1 p.m., Unicoi State Park Lodge. This event is in honor of Get Outdoors (GO) Georgia. Pre-registration required. 1-800-573-9659, www.

GeorgiaStateParks.org 11-20 - Georgia Mountain Fall Festival, Hiawassee, 706-896-4191 12- Fall Celebration, noon-4 p.m., Smithgall Woods. Enjoy the natural beauty of the season with hands-on pioneer skills exhibits, hayrides through the park, traditional craft vendors, mountain music, and apple cider from a hand-cranked press. No registration required. 706-878-3087 19- Art-Oberfest, Helen Riverside Park. Helen Arts & Heritage Center, 706878-3933, www.helenarts.org

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 34 Get the Scoop 2013

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

26- Contra Dance, 6:30-11 p.m., SNCA Historic Gym. Potluck dinner at 6:30 p.m., dance begins at 8 p.m. 706-8783300, www.snca.org 28- Hallowine Fest, noon-6 p.m., Sautee Nacoochee Vineyards. 706-878-1056 31- Halloween Trunk or Treat, SNCA, 706-878-3300, www.snca.org

NOVEMBER

7- “Do You See What I See?” Gallery Exhibit Holiday Show opening reception 5-7 p.m., Helen Arts & Heritage Center, 706-878-3933, www.helenarts.org 8-10- Georgia 2012 Winter Arts Tour. www.artstour.org 9-10- Civil War Expo, Helen Riverside Park. For more information, e-mail Al Platt at aplatt0021@aol.com.

23- Contra Dance, 6:30-11 p.m., SNCA Historic Gym. Potluck dinner at 6:30 p.m., dance begins at 8 p.m. 706-8783300, www.snca.org 29-Dec. 1- Annual Christkindlmarkt – Downtown Helen, Traditional German event. 706-878-1908, www.helenchamber. com 27-Dec. 14- Festival of Trees, Unicoi State Park Lodge.

This event is sponsored by the White County Chamber of Commerce and the Alpine Helen/White County Convention & Visitors Bureau to raise money for the United Way of White County. 706-865-5356, www.whitecountychamber.org 29- Annual Lighting of the Village, 6 p.m., → Downtown Helen, 706-878-2181, www.helenga.org

elics & Bead R , s k c s Ro the “go to” place for crafting and jewelry making enthusiasts 30 year collection of beads, crystals & Indian artifacts

BEADS

Garnet • Turquoise Seed Beads Base Metal Gemstones Sterling Silver Gold filled

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and so much more!

We accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover

Open weekends: 1pm-7pm weekdays: Please push the call button 5 times, we’re at the house.

5419 Hwy 129 N. • Cleveland 5.2 miles north of Cleveland

706-865-6932

Owners: Dianne & Cothran Duncan

706-244-9516 • judy@judybynumgeorge.com

Wendell’s

Country Restaurant

Serving Homestyle Cooking since 1982

Monday-saturday daily specials

5

$ 99

sunday lunch special All You Can eat

7

$ 99

Breakfast served All day Call to Reserve Spacious Banquet Room (seats 70) Named in Where Magazine Best Breakfast in 3 Counties

706-348-1431 Open Daily • 7am-3pm www.1wp.com/go/Wendells 5012 Helen Hwy. (75) • Sautee

Let us do your catering events 2013 Get the Scoop 35

first opened in the Spring of 1969 and is now the oldest craft shop in the same location in the state of Georgia. For more than 40 years, we have offered the works of 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.

610972w

DECEMBER

1-14- Festival of Trees, Unicoi State Park. 706-865-5356, www.whitecountychamber.org 7-8- Annual Christkindlmarkt – downtown Helen, 706878-1908, www.helenchamber.com 7, 14, 21- Kinderfest – downtown Helen. This is a German tradition for children that offers games, face painting and balloon tying. Helen Chamber of Commerce, 706-878-1908, www.helenchamber.com 7- Deck the Halls, Unicoi State Park. 1-800-573-9659, www.GeorgiaStateParks.org 7- Annual Christmas Parade, downtown Helen, 2 p.m., 706-878-2181, www.helenga.org 7- Children’s Lantern Parade, downtown Helen and Festhalle, 5 p.m.. Helen Chamber of Commerce, 706-8781908, www.helenchamber.com 7- Annual Christmas in the Mountains Festival, 3-8 p.m., downtown Cleveland, 706-865-5356, www. whitecountychamber.org 7- Annual Christmas in the Mountains Lighted Parade, 7 p.m., downtown Cleveland. 706-865-5356, www. whitecountychamber.org 7- Sautee Stars Youth Theatre Production, SNCA, 706878-3300, www.snca.org 13, 14, 15- Community Chorale Holiday Concert, SNCA, 706-878-3300, www.snca.org

Handcrafted in the USA

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

Joy R. Parks

Jacky Jones

Attorney ~ Mediator

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

“For all your legal needs-when a resolution really matters”

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

MEDIATION Civil Mediation Family/Divorce Mediation Probate Mediation BUSINESS LAW Incorporations Contracts Litigation GENERAL TRIAL PRACTICE

706-865-2168 www.jackyjones.com 2742 Hwy 129 South • Cleveland, Ga. 36 Get the Scoop 2013

REAL ESTATE Contracts Commercial Residential 1031 Exchanges

ESTATE PLANNING Wills Powers of Attorney Trusts Prenuptial Agreements FAMILY LAW Divorce Child Custody Child Support Legitimation Name Changes PROBATE Will Probate Estates Guardianships

Joy R. Parks, Attorney, P.C.

655 East Kytle Street, Cleveland, GA 30528 • (706) 219-3294

jrpattorney@windstream.net

Organizations • A.A. meeting Alcoholics Anonymous meets at 8 p.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays at Helen Presbyterian Church. Call 706878-2242.

• Girl Scouts Seven Girl Scout troops meet in White County. For information, call Rebecca Talafus, 706-219-1275.

• 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.

• 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, 706-776-3176.

• 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, 706-8656955.

• 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.

• Boy Scouts There are several Boy Scout troops, Cub Scout packs and Explorer posts that meet in White County. For information, call Matt Vrahiotes, 770-262-6274.

• Cleveland Optimists The Cleveland-White County Optimist Club meets at 7:30 a.m. on the third Wednesday of each month at Missy’s Copper Kettle. For information, call 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, 706892-9207.

• 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, 706865-3215.

• 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, 706-8783300.

• Sons of Confederate Veterans Local SCV group meets at 7:30 p.m. on the third

Thursday of each month at the Cleveland library. Call Jack Hill, 706-865-3881.

• 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, 706865-4133.

Mountain Laurel Antique Mall

Antiques Collectibles Home Decor Mon.-Sat. 10am-5pm Sunday 1-5pm

706-865-0575

• Kiwanis Club of Cleveland Kiwanis Club of Cleveland meets at noon each Monday at Western Sizzlin. Call Amy Allen, 706-892-4006.

Hwy. 129 South 233 Friendship Road, (4.3 miles south, look for the big yellow building)

• 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 706-8656499.

• 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.

HELPING YOU is what we do best.

Auto • Home • Life • Health

®

White County Farm Bureau 784 South Main St. Cleveland, GA 30528

706-865-3177

Georgia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. • Georgia Farm Bureau Casualty Insurance Co. Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Co.

2013 Get the Scoop 37

Volunteer Opportunities • Caring Hands Health Clinic Caring Hands Health Clinic provides free medical care to uninsured patients. Volunteers needed for medical and administrative work. Visit www.caringhandsclinic.org or call 706-8651223.

• 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.charlessmithgallhumanesociety.org or call 706-865-4135.

• 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 706-2191678.

• 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 about training to become a volunteer, see www.enotahcasa.org, call 706-864-0300 or visit the office on Short Street in Dahlonega.

• Friends of Smithgall Woods State Park Friends of Smithgall Woods State Park holds a regular meeting 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 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 looking for volunteers and is in need of donations of household items and building materials for resale at the ReStore. Visit www.habitatnega.org, call 706-754-5313 or email volunteer@habitatnega.org.

38 Get the Scoop 2013

Index of Advertisers Ain’t B’s Bakery........................................................... 23 Alpine Helen-White County Convention & Visitors Bureau......................................................... 39 ARI.............................................................................. 12 Ashleigh’s Closet......................................................... 27 Autobanc Title Pawn.................................................... 27 BabyLand General......................................................... 7 Barrett Funeral Home.................................................. 15 Betty’s Country Store................................................... 20 Café Cancun................................................................ 28 Cain Equipment........................................................... 29 Cleveland Family Dental Center.................................. 19 Cleveland Pharmacy & Gifts........................................ 23 Cottage House Restaurant............................................ 12 Dr. Kenneth Kliewer, DDS............................................. 6 Exxon Express Marts...................................................... 6 Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia.................. 34 Fourth Mountain Real Estate........................................ 33 Habersham EMC......................................................... 24 Hallco......................................................................... 28 Hansel & Gretel Candy Kitchen................................... 22 Helendorf River Inn & Suites....................................... 20 Historic Nacoochee Village......................................... 13 Iron Accents ............................................................... 29 Jacky Jones Ford.......................................................... 36 Jewels of the Mine....................................................... 25 Judy Bynum George.................................................... 35 Joy R. Parks, Attorney at Law........................................ 36 Mark of the Potter........................................................ 36 Mill Creek Veterinary Hospital..................................... 16 Mountain Fresh Creamery........................................... 29 Mountain Laurel Antique Mall..................................... 37 Mountain Valley Community Bank.............................. 40 Nora Mill Granary....................................................... 22 North Georgia Technical College................................. 11 Old Sautee Market....................................................... 11 Old Sautee Store.......................................................... 11 Paul’s Steakhouse......................................................... 16 Reflections Mall........................................................... 23 Rick’s Time to Eat Restaurant........................................ 29 Robin Roberts Promotions............................................. 3 Rocks, Relics & Beads................................................. 35 Sautee Nacoochee Center........................................... 34 Sonya Kassouf Insurance.............................................. 21 Strickland & Sons Funeral Home................................. 29 The Red Door.............................................................. 13 The Soda Fountain Café............................................... 23 The Willows Pottery..................................................... 13 United Community Bank............................................... 2 Wauka Mountain Family Dentistry.............................. 29 Wendell’s Country Restaurant...................................... 35 White County Chamber of Commerce......................... 39 White County Farm Bureau......................................... 37 White County Farmers Exchange................................. 31 White County Historical Society.................................... 4 White County Methodist Churches.............................. 31 Yonah Mtn. Treasures................................................... 23

We help make White County a great place to live, work and play We have the best referral list in the County. The Chamber has over 450 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 courteous staff is always eager to help connect you to services within the 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!

2013 Community Events

March 23: Easter Eggstravaganza September 28: Agri-Fest/Country at Babyland General Hospital Market & Pottery Comes to Town Downtown Cleveland 706-865-2171

706-865-5356 April 19: County-Wide Clean-Up Day

Meet at the Chamber 8 a.m.

Nov 27- Dec14: Festival of Trees

Unicoi State Park & Lodge May 16: Business Showcase 706-865-5356

2-7 p.m. at Yonah Bowl & Skate Over 100 Door Prizes & More Dec 7: Christmas in the Mountains Open to the PUBLIC FREE Festival 3 p.m.-8 p.m.

Lighted Parade 7 p.m.

All events are subject to change. Please contactCleveland the Chamber office.

Downtown R

706-865-5356

www.whitecountychamber.org

122 N. Main Street Cleveland, GA 30528

2013 Get the Scoop 39

Still local. still lending. still rock solid.

Still the bank

you should choose.

MVCBank.com

Main Office

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

Clermont Branch

5140 Cleveland Hwy., Gainesville 770-983-2201