Vol. 19 No. 1 • Display until June 20, 2018
NORTHEAST GEORGIA VIEWS Melissa Herndon Publisher/Chairman/Editor-In-Chief u DESIGN & PRODUCTION
A.W. Blalock ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Scott Goodwin
Find a happy thought!
ADVERTISING DESIGN
A.W. Blalock Brenda Ritchey CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lynda Abernathy Brian Cooke Mollie Herndon Pamela Keene Sydnah Kingrea M.J. Sullivan M.C. Tufts
Every now and then I have a moment when my thoughts and spoken words create a negative, ungrateful person. It’s at those times that my husband always says, “Find
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
a happy thought, and everything will be OK.” He is right, of course, and when I start to
David Cannon Brian Cooke Pamela Keene Sydnah Kingrea William D. Powell M.J. Sullivan
think happy thoughts, my memories immediately turn me into a positive, forward-thinking, happy Melissa. Finding happy thoughts is similar to counting your blessings, and when you think from that perspective, life becomes a wonderful experience overall. A brand new spring season is here, and along with spring comes many fun-filled days of
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
wanderlust. u As I was looking over the Events Calendar for this issue, I was amazed
Mollie Herndon
at all the different experiences that are available this spring in Northeast Georgia.
CIRCULATION DIRECTOR
Mollie Herndon
Everything from “A Blooming Affair” at Hamilton Gardens, a bull-riding competition
DIRECTOR OF DISTRIBUTION
in Elberton and the Celebrate Clayton Festival to the North Georgia Highlands Seafood
Mollie Herndon
Festival, the Lake Hartwell Antique Boat Festival and Easter egg hunts galore! u These
SOCIAL MEDIA
Sydnah Kingrea
are but a very few of this season’s opportunities to get your happy on! For those of you
u
who like fresh, read about the Spring Lake Homes Showcase tour of homes to get ideas
We invite you to share your views on Northeast Georgia Living. Please mail your comments to P.O. Box 270, Franklin Springs, GA 30639 or email us at negaliving@yahoo.com.
for fresh updates for your home, or maybe just buy one of these homes for a fresh start at living on the lake. Choose a wildflower hike from our Day Trip story to help burn the calories you consume eating mac-n-cheese at the restaurants in this issue’s Trails story.
indeed. Thank you for sharing your time with us!
Happy Spring!
Melissa Herndon
2 Northeast Georgia Living
Photo of Melissa Herndon by David Cannon
u Happiness is a grand place to be, and living in Northeast Georgia is a happy place
Visit us at facebook.com/ NortheastGeorgiaLivingMagazine Northeast Georgia Living, ISSN 1545-5769, is published quarterly in Spring, Summer, Fall and Holiday/Winter by Marketing & Media Resources at 454 College Street, Royston, GA 30662. 706-2460856. Subscription price is $14.00 annually. USPS Number 021-578 at Royston, GA 30662. Postmaster: Send address changes to Northeast Georgia Living Magazine, P. O. Box 270, Franklin Springs, GA 30639-0270. The cover and contents are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. Reader correspondence and editorial submissions are welcome. However, we reserve the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all contributed material.
www.NortheastGeorgiaLiving.com
Spring 2018 3
LETTERS I wanted to thank you for the beautiful feature article on our First Day Hikes [Northeast Georgia Living Holiday/Winter 2017-2018]. It looks wonderful and you have a lovely magazine. We appreciate being included. Also wanted to note that Dahlonega Gold Museum will be closed for a few months for renovations. Kim Hatcher Public Affairs Coordinator Georgia State Parks, Recreation and Historic Sites Division Stockbridge, Ga. Thank you for the coverage of Ty Cobb Museum in the Trails Museums article in the Holiday/Winter 2017 - 2018 issue of Northeast Georgia Living. In 2018 the museum will celebrate its 20th Anniversary of sharing the life of baseball immortal Ty Cobb from Royston, GA. Thank you for your informative publication exploring beautiful Northeast Georgia. Claudia Kay Museum Administrative Coordinator Ty Cobb Museum Royston, Ga.
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I wanted to let you know that I enjoyed the Cali-n-Tito’s article in the Holiday edition of Northeast Georgia Living. Writer Mollie Herndon said herself, “In Athens, great restaurants are definitely not hard to come by.” We are proud to have unparalleled restaurants in Athens, GA and love to share our treasures with others. Please send my regards to Mollie for a well-written article and beautiful photography. Aimee Cheek PR Coordinator Athens Convention & Visitors Bureau Athens, Ga. I just received my [Holiday/Winter 20172018] magazine today and literally cried when I saw the feature [“Holiday Gifts”]! You are so kind and I appreciate you so much! It is just perfect and I am so proud of it. On the Hartwell Service League’s Christmas Tour of Homes this past December, Northeast Georgia Living was proudly displayed in the home that I decorated. WOW, what a beautiful gift! I love it! Thank you! Debra Taylor Twelve South Gallery Hartwell, Ga.
BACK ISSUES Catch up on Northeast Georgia. Back issues of Northeast Georgia Living for Fall/Winter 2000 through Holiday/Winter 2017-18 are available in limited quantities for $5 per copy. (Sorry, Spring/Summer 2002 is no longer available.) Send your name and mailing address along with a check or money order payable to Northeast Georgia Living, P.O. Box 270, Franklin Springs, GA 30639. Please specify the issues(s) and the quantity of each issue desired.
SUBSCRIPTIONS Bring Northeast Georgia home! A oneyear subscription of four issues – Spring, Summer, Fall and Holiday/Winter – is only $14, and gift subscriptions are only $12. Visit NortheastGeorgiaLiving.com or call 706-246-0856 today to subscribe.
Spring 2018 5
IN THIS ISSUE
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SPRING 2018
LAKE HOMES SHOWCASE on Beautiful Lake Hartwell
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Unrivaled lake views, couture interior design, rich details and contemporary-style comfort combined make up the homes on the Spring 2018 Lake Homes Showcase. On Saturday, June 16 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., you will be welcomed into six flawless Lake Hartwell dwellings situated perfectly on the edge of the water. As you take the self-guided tour with the provided map, stepping into each of these extraordinary homes and exploring the charming properties, you can imagine what life would be like living on sparkling Lake Hartwell. Admission to this lakeside event is free. By Sydnah Kingrea
Trails: Mac-N-Cheese
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In the true South, “real” macaroni and cheese is a staple at church picnics, family gatherings and holiday meals. Restaurants from mom-and-pop cafeterias to white-tablecloth establishments that elect to serve this Southern comfort food have carefully guarded recipes with their own signature tastes. See where we found the real thing on our trail to mac-n-cheese! By Pamela Keene
´ French Souffles
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Our four quick souffle´ s add an elegant touch to any meal or gathering. They are alluring, with their delicately puffed tops and buttery appearance, and taste delightful as they melt in your mouth. These light and creamy dishes can be served as savory main courses and side dishes or as sweet desserts to finish off a sophisticated dining experience. By Sydnah Kingrea
Heading for the Hills
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Traversing the Appalachian foothills from Rome to Hartwell, cyclists will participate in the 2018 Bicycle Ride Across Georgia (BRAG) starting from Rome on June 2, heading to Dalton and Jasper, and then going on to Dahlonega for two nights. To finish, cyclists go through Clarkesville and Toccoa and arrive in Hartwell on June 9. By Brian Cooke
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DEPARTMENTS Made in Georgia Spring Favorites
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Enjoy our showcase of wonderfully crafted food, art and more created in Georgia. This issue features Handmade Stratton, Nut Milks by Treehouse Milk and R.M. Rose & Company Distillers. By Sydnah Kingrea
Spotlight Northeast Geogia Spring Hits
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Check out our top picks for spring, including seafood, antiques, bull riding and the great outdoors. By Sydnah Kingrea
Garden Window Boxes
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These seasonal miniature gardens brighten the day of passersby, while the view from inside seems brighter with color framing the out-of-doors. By M.C. Tufts
Antiques Roseville Pottery
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One of the most famous potteries in Ohio’s “pottery belt” was the Roseville Pottery Company. Influenced by the Arts and Crafts Movement, Roseville began creating art pottery in the mid-1890s that is still sought out by collectors today. By M.J. Sullivan
Vines Fainting Goats Vineyards & Winery
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High in the Appalachians, in Jasper, Ga., Fainting Goats Vineyards & Winery offers exceptional panoramic views and award-winning wines. By M.J. Sullivan
Books Listening to the Savage...
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Barbara Hurd’s small, intense book Listening to the Savage: River Notes and Half-Heard Melodies reflects on the life of the Savage River in Maryland. By M.C. Tufts
Destination Charleston ... Sweet Spot of the South
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The many treasures and adventures in Charleston, S.C. – the “Holy City” – will lure you back again and again. By Melissa Herndon
Day Trip Wildflower Hikes
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Spring starts before winter truly ends, at least for wildflowers. Just get out in the woods and you’ll find them. But try our three picks – Chicopee Woods Nature Preserve, Davidson-Arabia Nature Preserve and Brasstown Bald – for hikes where you’ll be sure to find these “spring ephemerals.” By Brian Cooke
Let’s Go Somewhere Today Spring Events
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Spring in Northeast Georgia brings festivals, farmers markets, food and outdoor fun. By Sydnah Kingrea
Reflections ... on the value of time
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In this time of growth and renewal, as you sweep away the winter and usher in the spring, use your time wisely. Live your life the way you’ve always wanted and leave behind no regrets. Time is of the essence. By Lynda Abernathy
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Cover Notes PHOTOGRAPH BY MELISSA HERNDON
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Spring 2018 7
MADE IN GEORGIA BY SYDNAH KINGREA
SPRINGFAVORITES Georgia has an abundance of human and natural resources. Here are a few of our favorite examples of entrepreneurship that result in products you will want to become familiar with this spring.
R.M. Rose & Company Distillers
Stay at home mom of three Carson Stratton developed Handmade Stratton out of a love for sewing clothes for her children. Based in Carnesville, Carson designs a variety of CPSC-compliant clothing that is fashionable, safe, comfortable and absolutely adorable. Each item is hand made with love out of high-quality materials in unique designs that your kids will be thrilled to wear. Carson also sells personalized clothing in addition to stylish ready-made offerings. Visit www. etsy.com/shop/Handmade Stratton to see what charming items are available.
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Nut Milks by Treehouse Milk
You will find the freshest nondairy/non-soy milks at Treehouse Milk. Based in Atlanta, owners Kate Carter and Bess Weyandt strive to supply consumers with the richest and tastiest nut milks available, free from controversial ingredients like carrageenan and gellan gum. Their nut milks not only have flavorful benefits, they also have excellent health benefits. Once you try these smooth small-batch hand-pressed unpasteurized nut milks, you won’t ever want to look back. Our favorite is the Georgia Pecan Milk, which is sourced directly from Pearson Farms in Ft. Valley. Learn more and find out what farmers markets Treehouse Milk will be visiting at www.treehousemilk.com. u
Special Photos
Handmade Stratton
Established in 1867, these Dillard, Georgia, distillers produced authentic Georgia Corn Whiskey until production came to a halt in the early 20th century due to Prohibition. The company is now up and running again and is producing a multitude of sophisticated flavors of whiskey, among other award-winning libations. In addition to sourcing only the freshest ingredients for their products, R.M. Rose Distillers also manufactures their own stills, which include cypress fermenting tanks and copper pots. The water used in the fermenting process is filtered straight from Northeast Georgia mountain streams. For the purest and most satisfying whiskey experience you’ll ever have, head to R.M. Rose & Company Distillers at 890 Franklin St. in Dillard, Ga., or visit their website at www.rmroseco.com to learn more.
Spring 2018 9
SPOTLIGHT NORTHEAST GEORGIA BY SYDNAH KINGREA
SPRINGHITS April 7-8, 2018 Visit the Towns County Conference Center in Young Harris on Saturday, April 7 or Sunday, April 8 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to check out the latest and greatest gear for fishing, hunting, boating, camping, biking and hiking while socializing with others who love the outdoors. Guests will have the opportunity to compare prices and buy boats or RVs, see and handle the latest hunting and fishing gear, and learn outdoor skills, among many other fun activities. Admission is $5 or free for kids under 14. Please call 706-8964966 or visit www.getoutdoors.net for more details.
19th Annual Celebrate Clayton
April 28-29, 2018 Rabun County’s Celebrate Clayton festival held in downtown Clayton, where visitors will find unique and, crafts and fun entertainment for all ages. On Saturday, April 28 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday, April 29 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., walk down Main Street for a look at a wide variety of local creations, sit on a shady lawn and listen to local music, and indulge in a variety of delicious foods, beverages and treats. To learn more, please visit www.celebrateclayton.com.
10 Northeast Georgia Living
April 27-29, 2018 Head to downtown Braselton on Friday, April 27 between noon and 7 pm., on Saturday, April 28 between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., or on Sunday April 29 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to view distinct items from 250 vendors. Antiques, repurposed creations, original artwork, furniture, pottery, jewelry and home decor pieces are only a few of the goodies you’ll come across. Taste cuisine from local food trucks and listen to live music while you’re there! Admission, parking and shuttle are free! Please visit www.countryside antiques.net or send an email to info@countrysideantiques.net for more information.
American Bullriders Tour
May 11-12, 2018 The American Bullriders tour originated in Purmela, Texas, and was designed by a cowboy for cowboys. On May 11 and 12 at the Twisted K Arena in Elberton, enjoy an action-packed evening as you watch the top bull riders in the country take on the most quick-tempered and explosive bulls out there. The event begins each evening at 8 p.m. Proceeds from this event will benefit the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. For ticket information, please visit reelwebdesigns.com/abt.
North Georgia Highlands Seafood Festival
June 1-3, 2018 Ranked in the top 20 events in the Southeast by the Southeast Tourism Society, the North Georgia Highlands Seafood Festival in downtown Young Harris is an event you don’t want to miss. The event will take place on Friday, June 1 from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m., on Saturday, June 2 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and on Sunday, June 3 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Enjoy more than 50 fine arts and crafts exhibitors, the beer and wine gardens, live music and – most importantly of all – tons of amazing seafood and delectable desserts. To learn more about this event and to purchase tickets in advance, please visit www.northgeorgiahighlandsseafoodfestival.com. u
Special Photos; Celebrate Clayton artwork by J. Aldrich
Get Outdoors! Expo
Braselton Antique & Artisan Festival
Spring 2018 11
12 Northeast Georgia Living
Spring 2018 13
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GARDENGATEWAY
What makes Hamilton Gardens at Lake Chatuge really special is the more than 1,500 rhododendrons and native azaleas within its boundaries. There are as many as 400 varieties of rhododendrons in this collection which bloom in all colors, shapes, and sizes from mid-April to mid-May. PHOTO BY MELISSA HERNDON
Spring 2018 15
GARDEN BY M.C. TUFTS
WINDOW BOXES
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lanted window boxes make us feel welcome, even if we have no intention of going in the house on which they are hanging. The message seems to be: We are glad you are walking by; we enjoy living here and hope this display brightens your day. This is especially effective in towns like Clayton and Savannah, where the buildings are still at a human scale and pedestrians can experience displays of seasonal color at the base of windows or along sidewalk fences. Window boxes are also a great way to see the world from the inside; the view from a kitchen window or off of a porch seems brighter with some color framing the out-of-doors. The best seasons for window boxes in Northeast Georgia are spring, summer and fall, but even in winter one can have an elegant display of hardy perennials that can take the cold or a dusting of snow. We will explore seasonal window box design ideas below, but first, there are some basics to consider before planting a window box. The first is the location and the prospect of your window boxes. Which side of the building are they on, and how much sun
16 Northeast Georgia Living
will they get? Are they out of the wind? Will a lot of heat be reflected off of the building? When choosing your plants, keep these considerations in mind. The second important issue to consider is that some plants prefer moist soils and others prefer dry conditions. So don’t mix plants with opposing needs. For instance, sedums will probably not thrive in the same window box with any flowering annuals that need fertile soil and moisture. Window boxes are container gardens; don’t expect your plantings to last forever. Think of them as seasonal miniature gardens, and refurbish them before they wilt or go to seed. Unlike a natural garden thriving in native soil, these are plantings that will have to be replaced frequently. We recommend using a high-quality wooden box made from cedar or teak so it doesn’t rot too quickly. Small holes should be drilled in the bottom, allowing excess water to drain. Coir inserts will help the potting soil hold its moisture throughout the week. Light organic potting medium works best because topsoil or our native soils are heavy with clay. Make sure your potting soil drains well to avoid root rot.
For spring, mix pink-and-green-leaved caladiums and salmon-pink geraniums, with creeping Jenny spilling over the side.
WHAT TO PLANT
You can certainly put seeds in soil in a box and watch them grow. We’ve had good luck with zinnias and marigolds for sunny boxes and four-o’clocks for shaded boxes. But the immediate gratification of a window box full of blooming – or about to bloom – plants is equally satisfying. Buy healthy potting plants from a local nursery. Check out their roots when you are choosing your plants; they should be alive and fill the pot without being choked by it. There should
be no signs of rot. Think about the structure of your design, taking into account the texture of the leaves and blossoms and the height and growing characteristics of the plant. Some plants (such as caladiums) have a smooth texture, and others (such as ferns) are feathery. Some plants grow tall (caladiums, salvia, ornamental grasses), while others will spill over the side of the box and trail towards the ground (ivy, creeping Jenny, etc.). And, obviously, color is something to think about. Here are four seasonal planting suggestions for Northeast Georgia window boxes.
SPRING
For bold colors to wake up the senses after a long winter, use salmon-pink geraniums and pink-and-green-leaved caladiums, with creeping Jenny spilling over the side of your box. Depending on how wide the box is, you might consider having the caladiums stand guard on either side of the geranium (centered) and letting the creeping Jenny pour over the ends and front. This display would do fine in a window that gets plenty of sun in the spring. A springtime edible planting can be a show of lettuces, from buttercrunch and colorful oakleaf to tall romaines.
SUMMER
To cool down the heat of summer, try using lots of shades of green and light pink. Light green heucheras, green-and-whiteleaved caladiums and light pink periwinkle will be calming and cheerful. Pink Wave petunias will add a nice skirt to this display. Basil also adds a nice touch to a summer window box.
FALL
Coleus now comes in every color imaginable and can survive in sun. Mix in rustred coleus with purple asters and yellow marigolds for an explosion of color that echoes the turning of fall leaves.
WINTER
A small boxwood plant serves as a nice focal point in a winter window box. Drape green and white English ivy over the sides and use dusty miller for a silvery texture. For holiday decoration, add cut sprigs of holly with berries into the mix. They’ll stay green for at least 10 days. Empty your window boxes and start fresh each spring. Perennials such as geraniums can be overwintered and used again, as can cuttings from your coleus. u Spring 2018 17
ANTIQUES CREATIONS IN CLAY STORY AND PHOTOS BY M.J. SULLIVAN
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ROSEVILLE POTTERY
n 1840 an Englishman named James Bennett was traveling from Cincinnati to Pittsburgh when he stopped in East Liverpool, Ohio, and made an interesting discovery: he found that the golden brown clay on the banks of the Ohio River was ideal for making yellowware pottery. It wasn’t long before companies, including Standard Pottery, American Limoges and Hall China, came to the same conclusion. In time the area became known as “the Pottery Capital of the World.” Meanwhile the towns of Crooksville, Roseville and Zanesville in southeastern
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Ohio were also gaining recognition with the emergence of regional potteries such as Weller, McCoy and Roseville. Eventually they earned a similar nickname: “the Pottery Belt.” One of that area’s most famous potteries was the Roseville Pottery Company, which began in 1890. From its facilities in Roseville, the company manufactured stoneware flower pots and other utilitarian items, such as baking pans, jardinieres, pedestals, coin banks and umbrella stands. Later they moved their production to Zanesville, where the company remained until its sale in 1953.
Collectible pieces from the Roseville Pottery Company, which began production in 1890, include this Fuchsia pitcher, Wisteria bowl and Luffa pattern vase. Ernest Thomason (opposite page) holds an ewer in the Apple Blossom pattern.
In the mid-1890s American potteries, responding to the influence generated by the Arts and Crafts Movement, began creating
art pottery. In 1900 Roseville introduced a line called “Rozane.” (The name is a contraction of “Roseville” and “Zanesville.”) This line expanded to include a variation called “Rozane Royal” that was designed to put the company in direct competition with two other well-known Ohio potteries, Rookwood and Weller, and that stands out as one of the most beautiful examples of the company’s workmanship. In the early years, fine artists decorated Roseville pottery with nature studies of animals, floral sprays and even portraits. To this day these same early, rare and experimental pieces may command prices beginning in the hundreds and soaring to thousands of dollars. By 1903 production techniques began to change as the company produced a more commercial form of artware. Individually hand-painted pieces were slowly replaced with pieces created using decorating methods such as decalcomania transfers and “pouncing,” a process by which a pattern for decorators to follow when applying tinted glazes is formed by sifting talc through perforated wax patterns. Yet another method involved using air brushes or sponges to follow patterns inside embossed lines. Ernest Thomason of Cornelia is a longtime collector, as is his wife Joan, owner of
Dejavu Antiques in Dillard. Together they have been collecting for over 33 years. Ernest says they have seen prices in the market decline but notes that the rarer lines still hold their value at auction, online and in reputable shops. “Over the years I have bought a variety of Roseville patterns,” he says. “One of my personal favorites is the Wisteria pattern, with its delicate hanging lavender flower. However, by far one of the most valuable objects I ever found was a piece of Roseville’s Baneda bearing a distinctive pumpkin design. Today that single piece would be worth close to a thousand dollars. “In the 1990s we started seeing Roseville Pottery reproductions coming in from Asia. If you are familiar with the original, it is not hard to distinguish an authentic piece from a copy. There is a noticeable difference in the texture and the glaze that can be felt. Older pieces have a softer, more satiny feel. The reproductions are not as finely painted and don’t have the beautiful shading that older pieces have. Newer pieces have a gaudy, flashy look, and the painting tends to look sloppy,” says Thomason. “Beginning collectors should physically examine as much original Roseville as possible to help them recognize the quality. For a quick visual comparison, look at both the original Roseville and reproduction Roseville categories on eBay.” He also suggests investing in one of the many Roseville pricing guides, not only to become familiar with the pottery, but to learn about the many and varying marks the company used over the years. A helpful resource for both novice and veteran collector is www. justartpottery.com. There you will find a complete alphabetical listing of 108 authentic Roseville patterns with photos. In Warman’s Roseville Pottery: Identification and Price Guide (2nd edition), author Denise Rago offers some tips for buying pottery. “When inspecting a piece it is imperative to use a bright light, which will help to expose even minor flaws.” She also advises that the buyer look for crazing in the glaze and hairline cracks, chips, bruises and small nicks on the edges. Roseville is available in a number of price ranges, and it complements a wide variety of decors. As with any valuable purchase, it is best to deal only with trustworthy, established antiques stores and auction houses. To find others interested in collecting, check out the American Pottery Association online at www.aapa.info. As always, enjoy the hunt. u Spring 2018 19
VINES BY M.J. SULLIVAN
FAINTING GOAT
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days, covered with red earth from trudging up and down the terraced slopes, they would jokingly refer to themselves as “old goats.” To be more exact, they were so exhausted by their labors that they said they felt like fainting goats. They decided to name the winery “Fainting Goat” because the name is fun and whimsical, the way they wanted the wine-tasting experience to be in their future tasting room. According to Rebekah Buchanan, wedding venue manager, music coordinator and spokesperson for the winery, grapes for their wines were planted in 2012. Vitis vinifera varieties were chosen, including merlot, petit verdot and two types of cabernet sauvignon. While they specialize in red wines, they also offer white wines, us-
Clockwise from above: From left to right are Robin and Dave Higginbotham, Corey Potts and McKenzie Higginbotham-Potts. Two fainting goats were fittingly acquired after the vineyard and winery name had already been chosen. Fainting Goat wines can be enjoyed with a mountain view and a cheese plate in the tasting room.
ing grapes outsourced from other Georgia vineyards. Following a patriotic theme, the wines bear names like Old Glory, Constitution, Liberty, Valor and Republic. “It is under the direction of our viticulturist, Fritz Westover, that Dave cultivates and cares for the vines throughout the year, working to insure the physical health and maintenance of the fruit,” says Buchanan. “After the harvest, the grapes are processed by our winemaker, McKenzie Higginbotham-Potts.” Fainting Goat Vineyards & Winery is truly a family enterprise. While daughter McKenzie creates the award-winning
Special Photos
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hen the Higginbothams, owners of Fainting Goat Vineyards & Winery in Jasper, decided to move from Ohio, it was with one goal in mind. Dave, Robin and their daughter, McKenzie, wanted to start a business that would allow them to combine their talents and expertise while working together as a family. Their dream was to find the perfect location for a vineyard and create their own winery. In 2010 after two years of searching, they found the ideal property. Choosing land with the Appalachian Mountains as its backdrop, they purchased 10 highly-elevated, sun-drenched acres in Jasper. Together they set about preparing the soil in which to plant vines that would one day become Fainting Goat Vineyards & Winery. While the Higginbothams do have two fainting goats, Ronnie and Reagan, the vineyard was not initially named for them. It seems the goats were acquired later, after the winery was already established. The name for their enterprise was first inspired by the family’s sweat and toil as they worked long hours together in the mineral-rich soil. At the end of long, hard
Vineyards & Winery
wines, her mother, Robin, tends to the technicalities of running the winery. She and McKenzie also work together planning and scheduling special activities and events. In addition to the presence of fainting goats Ronnie and Reagan, the vineyard property is also home to two Great Pyrenees dogs, Rosie and Teddy. (Yes, more presidents.) They not only stand guard duty over the goats, their presence also serves to protect the vines from black bears during the growing season. It seems that the vineyard’s merlot is popular with more than just winery guests. Blessed with a view from an elevation of 2,400 feet, which Buchanan describes as “up close and personal all year round,” Fainting Goat Vineyards is a natural choice for receptions and weddings. Whether the event is held in an outdoor location or is sheltered inside the tasting room facility with its stately stone fireplace, the staff can accommodate large groups for all types of gatherings and celebrations. Additionally, tastings for private and semiprivate occasions may be booked for parties held off property. “Visitors come from all over the state,” says Buchanan, “with a good percentage of that traffic coming from metro Atlanta. However, in the autumn of the year, we see an increase in visitors from Florida, because people want to experience the beauty of our colorful leaf change.” Buchanan says, “Not only do we have exceptional panoramic views and award-winning wines, the winery also has a family-friendly atmosphere. We invite people to bring a picnic and relax on the lawn in front of the tasting room – kids and dogs always welcome. You can enjoy a glass of wine with one of our cheese plates while seated on the porch or pull out a blanket and unpack a lunch. One day we were sitting outside, in full view of the goat pen, when something startled Ronnie and she fainted, casting her legs straight up in the air. Within seconds she had flipped back onto her feet and was playing again. The goats offer our guests endless entertainment as well as providing them with a good laugh.” For information regarding directions and tasting room hours or to coordinate a special event, visit the winery online at www.faintinggoatvineyardsandwinery. com or phone them directly at 706-692WINE. While online, also view their continuing lineup of weekend musicians and special winery activities. Cheers! u Spring 2018 21
BOOKS BY M.C. TUFTS
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istening to the Savage: River Notes and Half-Heard Melodies by Barbara Hurd is a small, intense book of reflections on the life of the Savage River in Maryland. Named for the 18th century surveyor John Savage, the 30-mile-long river is a major tributary of the North Branch Potomac River, which eventually flows into the Atlantic Ocean. The Savage River remains a fairly pristine body of water and is full of life, from trout to water striders (graceful insects that walk on water and that are also known as “Jesus bugs”) to numerous song and water birds, black bears, foxes and opossums. The river’s name, “Savage,” also reminds the reader of the power of listening to our wild and more primitive selves when we encounter the natural world. This reader did not expect to learn so much about insects, but that is just one of the surprises in the book. Barbara Hurd has the ears and eyes of an ecologist and the heart of a poet. She is the author of numerous essays about nature and the complex relationships that abound between humans and other life. This small book is an intriguing reflection on the life of the river interwoven with reflections on other powerful sources of inspiration, namely music, poetry and Hurd’s children and grandchildren. Throughout the book are interspersed grains of whimsical wisdom delivered by her very precocious 5-year-old granddaughter, Samantha, who likes to accompany her on treks deep into the woods. Also meandering through the chapters are accounts of the author’s love of music and her effort to learn to play the piano. In short, “listening” to the river becomes a way to move in the world, whether it be caring for family, writing or enjoying a deeper understanding of humanity’s relationship to and dependency on the natural world. When asked which of her senses she would like restored, Helen Keller respond-
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ed, according to Hurd, that her sense of hearing was the most desired. Ears – unlike our eyes, which can be opened and closed at will, shutting out things we don’t want to gaze upon – are always taking in vibrations. There is no protective lid to open and close to control what we absorb through our ears, so we are left with the challenge of trying to sort among sounds and distractions well enough that we can truly hear even the smallest rustling in the grass or beat of a wing or even the waking of a hibernating frog. Read this book and you’ll be inspired to walk along the banks and out onto the shoals of the Broad River to experience the music and life our free-flowing rivers afford us in deeper and more magical ways. Hurd is inspired by numerous writers and philosophers, including Thoreau. She has won numerous writing awards, including a Guggenheim Fellowship. She teaches in the MFA writing program at the Vermont College of Fine Arts. u Listening to the Savage: River Notes and Half-Heard Melodies is a Wormsloe Foundation nature book published by the University of Georgia Press and is available at Avid Bookshop in Athens.
Spring 2018 23
DESTINATION BY MELISSA HERNDON
CHARLESTON
I
was born in North Carolina and was raised there for 21 years before moving to Georgia, and South Carolina was always just a cross through state for going back and forth to visit family and friends. However, after a visit to Charleston, this city became a sweet spot in the middle that will lure me back again to experience the many treasures of this “Holy City.” Our visit to the Charleston area began
24 Northeast Georgia Living
at The Cottages on Charleston Harbor, located at 16 Patriots Point Road in Mount Pleasant. This would be home base for the duration of our stay. Each of the 10 cottages is named, and our cottage was aptly named “Sweet Blessing.” Oh, what a blessing it was. The combination of beautifully appointed interiors and luxurious surroundings along with breathtaking views from the edge of Charleston Harbor left me completely speechless. Total relax-
ation started to fill the salty air. Enjoying the views from the screened porch and the sound of water gently lapping just feet away from the comfy rocking chairs made life seem complete. The clubhouse, which is centrally located among the cottages, provides guests with a delicious complimentary breakfast each morning as well as refreshments throughout the day. Though it was difficult to tear away from the picture-perfect scene of the cot-
Special Photos
The Sweet Spot of the South
Clockwise from opposite page: Settle in and relax at The Cottages on Charleston Harbor. Boone Hall Plantation, with its beautifully kept gardens, boasts grand rooms filled with heirlooms and artifacts. Old South Carriage Tours are a great way to see and hear the rich history of Charleston as you pass the city’s beautifully restored homes and other sights. Hyman’s Seafood, established in 1890, has stood the test of time while serving the best in seafood dishes.
. tage, I knew that with only two days to experience Charleston, I must set out on some sightseeing. The Charleston area is filled with history, and one among many must-see historic sites is Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens in Mount Pleasant. The driveway was the first of several astounding views; lined with gorgeous live oak trees, this entrance will make you feel like you’re in one of the many movies that have been filmed here. Upon parking, there are many
options available to visitors to Boone Hall Plantation. The grounds are beautifully kept, and at every corner is a piece of rich Southern history. The most prominent attraction, of course, is the owners’ mansion. Each room of the bottom floor of the house is included in guided tours that include a timeline of past owners and events dating back to the 1700s. The mansion boasts grand rooms filled with precious family heirlooms and artifacts, as well as
breath-taking architecture. In addition to the mansion, one of the other main attractions is a self-guided tour of what were once slave cabins, giving visitors a glance into the lives of slaves on the plantation. These cabins, filled with artifacts and traditional clothing, tell the stories of actual slaves who lived and worked there. Downtown Charleston is one stop that should definitely be on your sightseeing list. If you’re looking for some great local Spring 2018 25
WHERE TO STAY
The Cottages on Charleston Harbor 16 Patriots Point Road, Mount Pleasant, S.C.; 866-901-2688; www.thecottages oncharlestonharbor.com
WHAT TO DO
Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens 1235 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant, S.C.; 843-884-4371; www.boonehall plantation.com Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum 40 Patriots Point Road, Mount Pleasant, S.C.; 843-884-2727; www.patriotsoint.org Charleston City Market Market Street, between Meeting and East Bay Streets, Charleston, S.C.; 843-937-0920 www.thecharlestoncitymarket.com Old South Carriage Company 14 Anson St., Charleston, S.C.; 843-7239712; www.oldsouthcarriage.com
WHERE TO EAT The Cottages on Charleston Harbor
goodies, the City Market in downtown Charleston, located at Market Street, has an array of handmade items and gifts as well as edible treats. If you’re in the mood for breakfast or just a tasty snack, a stop by Callie’s Biscuits will not disappoint. Try the shortcake biscuit for a sweet Southern delight! For an entertaining and informative tour of historic downtown, Old South Carriage Tours are a great way to see and hear the rich history of Charleston. The decision to shop in downtown Charleston is a no-brainer. Shopping on King Street is a shopaholic’s dream! Dozens of stores line this street, from designer stores to local outfitters. Every great day deserves to end with a fantastic dinner, and Hyman’s Seafood, established in 1890, has stood the test of time while serving the best in seafood 26 Northeast Georgia Living
Hyman’s Seafood 215 Meeting St., Charleston, S.C.; 843723-6000; www.hymanseafood.com dishes. Voted #1 in the Southeast in a Southern Living magazine readers’ poll, they serve appetizers, sandwiches and dinners made with fresh local seafood prepared in every way imaginable. Portions are generous and delicious. Make a point to view the wall of fame to see others who have enjoyed this historic landmark! After dinner don’t forget to stop in at Hyman’s General Store and try out the salt scrubs too. Through its history, art, architecture, dining and so much more, Charleston provides many opportunities to make life a sweet adventure ... u For more information, contact the Charleston Area Convention & Visitors Bureau at www.explorecharleston.com or call 1-800868-8118.
Spring 2018 27
DAY TRIP BY BRIAN COOKE
S
Flame azalea
pring starts before winter truly ends, at least for wildflowers. Despite the uncertainties of weather in February, we can be assured that dimpled trout lilies, with their mottled leaves and nodding, heavy-seeming yellow flowers, will bloom and accentuate winter’s Piedmont forests. Trout lilies are one of the “spring ephemerals,” wildflowers that grow low to the ground, taking advantage of late winter and early spring sun before trees “leaf out.” “If you just get out in the woods, you’ll find wildflowers,” says Georgia Botanical Society member Rich Reaves. And he’s right. Wildflowers grow across the state, each one with specific requirements. But with anywhere to go, picking one place can be hard.
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Start first at the often-overlooked Chicopee Woods Nature Preserve (2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville, GA 30504). Here in the upper Piedmont, says Reaves, where elevations are lower and temperatures warm earlier, wildflowers get a head start on those growing in the mountains just to the north. Dimpled trout lilies may be growing in February in bottomlands like those found along the Ed Dodd Trail. The 0.75-mile trail loops to and from the Elachee Nature Science Center campus, which has exhibits worth visiting before you leave. During your search for trout lilies, also check the well-drained trailsides for hepatica and bloodroot. Bloodroot is a particular favorite for many, with its white 2-inch-wide flowers that open as daily temperatures rise.
Dimpled trout lilies
Pink lady’s slipper Go back in mid-March when trout lilies are winding down, encourages Reaves, because “trilliums are firing up.” Georgia is home to about 20 trillium species, the most of any state. Among others, you’ll find toadshade trillium, Southern nodding trillium, great white trillium and Catesby’s trillium. Look for them growing near bloodroot in welldrained soils. No luck on the Ed Dodd Trail? Hike the Mathis Trail, or if you can go farther, hike the first half mile of the Dunlap Trail counterclockwise from the overflow parking area, paying special attention to the hillsides once you reach Homestead Creek. Later in the spring, the Homestead Creek area is also home to colonies of May apple. Look for green umbrella-like leaves
Photos courtesy of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the USDA Forest Service; Flame azalea special photo
WILDFLOWER HIKES
Spring 2018 29
in singles or doubles. The white flower can be found dangling underneath the May apples with two leaves. Spring also brings change to other Piedmont habitats, such as granite outcrops. Plan to visit the Davidson-Arabia Nature Preserve (3787 Klondike Road, Lithonia, GA 30038). Arabia Mountain is smaller, less busy and equally as interesting as its neighbor, Stone Mountain. Visit Arabia Mountain in early April for the best chance to see unique granite wildflowers. From the nature center, hike along the Klondike Boardwalk to the cairn-marked Mountain Top Trail, which leads up to great views. The star of this hike is elf orpine. Elf orpine are small red plants that shoot up small stalks topped with white flowers. The plant grows in shallow depressions, called “solution pits,” that collect eroded material and water. These pits take many years to form, so make sure to keep your boots on gray granite. As a succulent, elf orpine thrives in the outcrop environment where conditions vary dramatically from the surrounding environment. By germinating in the fall and blooming in the spring, this plant avoids the worst of Georgia’s heat. You’ll likely see other wildflowers growing here too, like the white flowers of sandwort, the yellow flowers of sunnybells, and the three-petaled purple Ohio spiderwort. For a longer trip, drop down to the base of the mountain and take a spin around the Mountain View Trail. The wooded areas on this trail are home to various spring ephemerals. Spring comes later to the mountains, so plan to visit Georgia’s highest peak, Brasstown Bald (Georgia Spur 180, Blairsville, GA 30512; $3 entrance fee), in May or early June. While some wildflowers will be new here, you may get a second look at some that are already blooming in the Piedmont. 30 Northeast Georgia Living
Set out on the Wagon Train Trail from the summit parking lot. Look for Carolina springbeauty, a small flower with noticeable white petals hued with purple or pink accents that look almost like stripes. Cliff saxifrage grows out of rocky outcrops, easily identified by its reddish-green leaves and small white flowers. Patches of white flowers are also common here, some short like Canada mayflower and some tall like galax. Keep an eye out for pink lady’s slipper, a native orchid. This flower grows only as far south as the Georgia mountains, which have plenty of the plant’s required habitat. The trail is 5-plus miles long one way, ending at Young Harris College. Plan to turn around at any time to return to your car. As you travel, looking for small wildflowers, make sure to look up. Depending on how far you hike, you may encounter trees and shrubs such as rhododendrons, mountain laurels, flame azaleas, sweetshrubs, highland doghobble and Carolina silverbells, all of which grow here and produce notable flowers. On their own, these hikes aren’t novel. But time them right and bring the right attitude, and these hikes will show a new side of Georgia that will break you free from the winter blues. For Carla Francis, an avid hiker and amateur naturalist, identifying wildflowers “slows you down,” shifting the paradigm of hiking. “Instead of focusing on the finish, you’re focusing on the whole hike.” Rather than go it alone, join members of the Georgia Botanical Society (www. gabotsoc.org) for field trips. Trips are open to the public, diverse and welcoming of newcomers. Even for Heather Brasell, president of the Georgia Botanical Society, identifying plants is still a learning process. That means that each new trip brings new sights and surprises. “Whatever flower I saw last is my favorite.” u
Photo by Mason Brock
Elf orpine
Spring 2018 31
Lake Homes Showcase L A K E
SPRING 2018
32 Northeast Georgia Living
H A R T W E L L
Saturday, June 16
U
on Beautiful Lake Hartwell BY SYDNAH KINGREA
Unrivaled lake views, couture interior design, rich details and contemporary-style comfort combined make up the homes on the Spring Lake Homes Showcase. If you desire a taste of fine lake living, look no further. During this annual event, you will be welcomed into six flawless Lake Hartwell dwellings situated perfectly on the edge of the water. Each home, boasting expansive, unparalleled views, will be open for your enjoyment. Imagine yourself sipping coffee on the covered porch or cooking a meal for your family in your oneof-a-kind customized kitchen. You will have the opportunity to appreciate truly refined design and classic Southern style as you explore the spa-like master bathrooms and large living areas full of natural lighting. On Saturday, June 16 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Northeast Georgia Living Magazine, in sponsorship with the Hart County Chamber of Commerce, Pinnacle Bank, WLHR 92.1 and in association with Coldwell Banker Fort Realty, Charlene Lee Realty, Spot on the Lake at Keller Williams and EXIT Realty Results, invites you to join us for a leisurely afternoon on the lake, complete with refreshments. As you take the self-guided tour with the provided map, stepping into each of these extraordinary homes and exploring the charming properties, you can imagine what life would be like living on sparkling Lake Hartwell. You will also have the opportunity to make those dreams a reality as you will be able to meet the realtors representing each home. Read further for a preview of the magnificent homes on our Spring Lake Home Showcase. We invite you to come visit them in person in June. Admission to this lakeside event is free. To learn more, please call 706376-8590 or visit hart-chamber.org.
1 l 555 Panorama Drive, Lavonia Whether you are searching for a full-time residence or the perfect vacation destination, this impressive 5,548-squarefoot home has everything you could possibly need. Situated on a gorgeous main-channel lake lot, this house is also located in the desirable Panorama Point neighborhood. Four bedrooms and four and a half baths make up this spotless residence. With a stone fireplace and wall-to-wall French doors in the living room, picture windows and granite counters in the eat-in kitchen, an oversized dining room and music room, and a large screened-in porch, you will find luxury around every corner on the main level. The master suite also has a stone fireplace and French doors as well as its own private porch and Jacuzzi tub overlooking the lake. A large second bedroom and half bath finish off this level. As you make your way to the upstairs, you will find an area with lake views and skylights that can be used as either an office area or a sleeping area, plus a full bath and an additional area for a crib or exercise equipment – all of which is well lit by multiple windows. The lower level is as luxurious as the main level, with a large rec room that has its own stone fireplace, two lakefront full-bedroom suites with private baths in each, and another flexible room for an office or additional sleeping. As if all of these features weren’t enough to welcome you home, a spacious lakefront exercise room and plenty of storage can also be found on the lower floor. From here, you will find a large stone patio that connects to an outdoor shower for easy rinse-off and a path that leads to the covered slip dock, which has an expansive view of the main channel. $850,000 Spot on the Lake at Keller Williams Tom Miller - 678-469-9917
Spring 2018 33
2 l 118 Stinson Court, Hartwell If you are looking for wide-open space, amazing views and deep water, then look no further! Everything about this completely renovated lake home is spot on. Cozy but functional, this 1,916-square-foot home has two bedrooms, two baths, an office/bunk room and an optional third bedroom or rec area in the partial basement. As you enter the home, prepare for a “wow moment” as you realize the jewel you have just discovered. The highlights include hardwood floors flowing through the main living areas, a great room with a bold masonry fireplace, an updated kitchen with granite counters and stainless appliances, dual main-level bedrooms – each with its own private bath – and a cozy lakeside sitting area. The entire back of the home is nothing but glass, so no obstructed views here! The screened lakeside patio leads to separate open-air deck areas. The lake water with this home is droughtproof, and the sunset views are breathtaking. Steps wind down to the water’s edge, where the low-maintenance aluminum covered slip dock with lift is in place. A detached garage and an additional storage building are also on the property, which has plenty of space for everyone to park. This home is set up perfectly for enjoying those relaxing, lazy lake days and is sure to be an excellent place for making a lifetime of memories! $400,000 EXIT Realty Results - Christy Chitwood - 706-717-1557
3 l 17 York Shores Lane, Hartwell Simply the best on Lake Hartwell. Finally! A home with both the BEST features AND the BEST location. Custom home in Hartwell, Georgia features hardwood floors, hickory cabinets throughout, granite countertops, stainless appliances, walk-in pantry and formal dining with cofer ceilings and spacious laundry. The expansive master suite brags lake view. Bonus spaces include bonus room over garage, downstairs theatre with custom-built wet bar and terrace. Enjoy a professionally-landscaped yard to the concrete walkway taking you to a 2-slip covered dock with upper covered deck. Plenty of room for all the family and guests! $799,500 Charlene Lee Realty - Charlene Lee 706-376-5100
34 Northeast Georgia Living
5 l 297 Lakeshore Drive, Hartwell
4 l 150 Northlake Drive, Hartwell This spacious 3,249-square-foot three-bedroom, four-bathroom custom-built four-sided brick house sits on a beautiful and sizable waterfront lot. Twelve-foot ceilings, hardwood floors and wall-to-wall windows can be found throughout the home. The main level consists of three bedrooms and three baths, a home office with an ornate built-in bookshelf, a media room, a large living room that has a wood stove that leads out onto a deck, and an open dining room attached to an enviable screened-in porch. The kitchen is also on the main floor and has gorgeous glass-front custom cabinets. The home also includes an extra-large garage with plenty of space for a boat and a full basement that is partially finished with a heated and cooled bathroom and shop area. The rest of the basement is a clean slate waiting for your unique design ideas. $595,000
Dignified columns and a brick exterior make a grand statement as guests pull up to this stately five-bedroom, fiveand-a-half- bath custom-built lake home situated gracefully on a manicured lawn. The quality craftsmanship of this 4,250-square-foot home is evident as you enter the front door. Exuding luxury living at its finest, this home is meticulously detailed. The elegant main level features a vaulted great room with exposed beams, a masonry fireplace, a spacious master suite and a gourmet kitchen suitable for the most discerning chef. The list of this home’s features goes on and on. Equally as inviting as the main level, the fully finished terrace level boasts three bedrooms, two full baths, a second living/recreation area, a kitchenette complete with granite counters and a second laundry room. Exterior appointments include outdoor living spaces galore. Between the large main-level screened porch and the expansive covered patio area overlooking the back yard, the spacious terrace-level walk-out patio offers even more room to spread out. The maximum-sized two-story dock with a covered upper-level party deck is perfect for entertaining a host of family and friends. The convenient location to town, the fully-irrigated lawn, the two-car garage, the quiet cove and the paved cart path winding through the thinly wooded lot leading to the shores of beautiful Lake Hartwell are but a few of the qualities that make this the perfect home for fullor part-time lake living. $895,000 EXIT Realty Results - Christy Chitwood - 706-717-1557
Coldwell Banker Fort Realty - Jeanna Foley - 864-933-0878
Spring 2018 35
EXIT 177
6 l 85 Hart Lake Place, Hartwell With 4,437 square feet, four bedrooms and four and a half baths, this exquisitely finished home has plenty of space for your family and friends. The generously sized main level great room boasts cathedral ceilings and a stone fireplace with an attractive built-in entertainment center. The stunning kitchen offers plenty of cabinet space, granite counter tops and a bar area for extra seating. An open dining area, a utility room, the large master suite with two vanities and a claw-foot tub in the bathroom, a guest bedroom and another bathroom make up the remainder of the main level, which is complemented by a lakeside porch and deck. As you emerge onto the upper floor, you will find a cozy TV/sitting area overlooking the main floor, a third large bedroom, an additional bathroom and a perfect screened-in porch and deck. The terrace floor adds a huge rec room, a wet bar, a fourth bedroom and bathroom and access to a full-length screened-in patio that will provide hours of entertainment by the lake. Throughout the home, you will find stylish tile work, hardwood floors and crown molding. There are gorgeous views of the natural setting from each room. As you make your way to the lawn, admire the sloped 1-acre lot with 150 feet of glimmering lake frontage. A paved path leads to the two-story covered dock. The home also includes a two-car garage and plenty of parking for guests. $799,000 Coldwell Banker Fort Realty - Georgeanna White - 706-436-3320
36 Northeast Georgia Living
EXIT 173
Welcome to Lake Hartwell
Spring 2018 37
LET’S GO SOMEWHERE TODAY BY SYDNAH KINGREA
Fill your spring days with
Spring 2018
EVENTS ATHENS/CLARKE COUNTY www.visitathensga.com (Chamber of Commerce: 706-549-6800; Convention & Visitors Center: 706-357-4430 or 800-653-0603)
“The Sound of Music”: April 1, 7:30 p.m., the Classic Center Theatre, Athens. The hills are alive! This brand new production of “The Sound of Music” will thrill audiences with its Tony, Grammy and Academy Award-winning Best Score, which includes “My Favorite Things,” “Edelweiss” and the title song. Please visit classic center.com/244/Broadway-EntertainmentSeries-Informatio or call 706-357-4444. UGA International Street Festival: April 7, noon-5 p.m., downtown Athens. The 2018 UGA International Street Festival celebrates its 20th year with cultural displays, traditional costumes, dances and international bands. Dozens of UGA international student organizations and local community groups will sponsor informative and interactive cultural displays as well as musical and dance performances. A children’s corner will allow young guests to participate in activities such as coloring international paper dolls, creating their own flags, crafting African necklaces and much more. Door prizes and give-
aways will be available from local sponsoring businesses. To learn more, please visit isl.uga.edu. Athens Beer Week/Classic City Brew Fest: April 7-15, Athens. Grab your friends and enjoy this exciting week of spring beer events in the beautiful college town of Athens. Support local craft beer! See the full calendar of Classic City Brew Fest events at classiccitybrew.com. Plantapalooza: April 14, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., the State Botanical Garden of Georgia (2450 S. Milledge Ave.), the Trial Gardens (220 W. Green St.) and the UGA Horticulture Club (Riverbend and College Station Road), Athens. Plantapalooza brings together three University of Georgia units for one big plant sale. Each sale offers an assortment of garden plants that thrive in the Southeast. Horticulturists, volunteers and master gardeners will be on hand to help with plant selection and to answer gardening questions. The esteemed Dr. Ruter will be selling autographed copies of his latest book, Landscaping With Conifers and Ginkgo for the Southeast, at the Trial Gardens. Visit plantapalooza.uga.edu or call 706-542-6014 to learn more. 38th Annual Athens Twilight Criterium: April 27-28, downtown
wine events, plant sales, garden tours, art festivals, artisan markets and more in Northeast Georgia! Athens. The Twilight Criterium is a favorite spot on the national cycling tour circuit, both for its unique evening format and the large crowds that gather in Athens’ vibrant downtown retail and entertainment district. Get up close and personal with your favorite pro cyclists as they battle it out Friday night for coveted starting places in America’s best criterium Saturday night. Visit www.athens twilight.com for more information. Athens Human Rights Festival: May 5-6, downtown Athens. Saturday’s hours are 10 a.m.-midnight, and Sunday’s hours are 2-9 p.m. The Annual Athens Human Rights Festival is a springtime political and cultural tradition in Athens. The festival features a dynamic, educational and family-friendly weekend of oratory, music, activities for the children and street theater performances in an outdoor setting. Please visit athens humanrightsfest.org or call 404-8957153 for more details. Memorial Day at Memorial Park: May 28, 1-3 p.m., Memorial Park, Athens. The Athens-Clarke County Leisure Services Department will host the annual Memorial Day activities in Memorial Park. Children’s activities and inflatables will be included. The event is open to the public and is free of charge. Concessions will be available. The Memorial Park pool will be open from 1 to 5:30 p.m. with a $1 per person pool admission fee. Visit www.athensclarkecounty.com/ memorial or call 706-613-3580. Hot Corner Festival: June 9-10, downtown Athens. Hot Corner, the corner of Washington and Hull Streets, is the historic African-American business district Continued on page 40
38 Northeast Georgia Living
Spring 2018 39
SPRING 2018 EVENTS in Athens. Here this diverse community is celebrated each summer in the annual Hot Corner Celebration & Soul Food Festival. Bring your family for entertainers, a barbecue cook-off, a kids’ corner, a car and bike showcase, voter registration, and more! AthFest: June 22-24, downtown Athens. The AthFest Music & Arts Festival is held each June (typically the weekend after Father’s Day) and is a showcase of the best music in Athens and the region, with over 100 bands giving free performances on three outdoor stages and in venues around downtown.
BARROW COUNTY www.cityofwinder.com www.winderdowntown.com (Chamber of Commerce: 770-867-9444; Auburn: 770-963-4002; Bethlehem: 770-8670702; Carl: 770-867-1308; Statham: 770-7255455; Winder: 770-867-3106)
Keep Barrow Beautiful: March 21 & April 18, 10-11 a.m., location TBD. Join others in the community to promote environmental awareness and litter prevention. Please send an email to rwhiddon@ barrowga.org to learn more.
DAWSON COUNTY www.dawsoncounty.org Dawson County Chamber of Commerce and Office of Tourism Development: 706265-6278
KARE Community Egg Hunt: March 31, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Veterans Memorial Park football field, Dawsonville. Photos and activities begin at 11:30 a.m., and the egg hunt begins promptly at 2:30 p.m. This event is for ages 0-12. Visit www. kareforkids.org/easter.html for details. 9th Annual Memorial Day Weekend Car Show & Heritage Days Festival: May 26, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Georgia Racing Hall of Fame. Visit www.georgiaracinghof.com
ELBERT COUNTY
www.mainstreet-elberton.com www.elbertga.com (Chamber of Commerce: 706-283-5651; Main Street: 706-213-0626; Bowman City Hall: 706-245-5432) American Bullriders Tour: May 11-12, 8 p.m., Twisted K Arena, 2696 Reagin 40 Northeast Georgia Living
Drive, Elberton. Join the locals for a night of action-packed professional bull riding that will benefit the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Please visit reelweb designs.com/abt for ticket information.
FORSYTH COUNTY www.cummingforsythchamber.org www.cumminglocal.com (Chamber of Commerce: 770-887-6461)
Taste of Forsyth and Easter Egg Hunt: March 31, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Cumming Fairgrounds, Cumming. Patrons will have the opportunity to sample all local Cumming restaurants have to offer while kids enjoy an Easter egg hunt! More details are available at www.cummingfair.net. 9th Annual Boulder Dash 5K/10K Run/ Walk: April 28, 8 a.m., Northside Hospital-Forsyth and Bluegrass Materials Company, Cumming. This event will be held in an environmentally responsible operational hard rock quarry. On your run/walk, you will get to see a quarry face, the ancient rock deposits, the massive equipment that processes it and the natural surroundings. The Bluegrass Spring Fling awaits you at the finish line. Please visit boulderdash 5k.com for more information.
FRANKLIN COUNTY www.franklin-county.com www.cityofroyston.com www.canongeorgia.com www.lavonia-ga.com (Franklin County Chamber of Commerce: 706-384-4659; Royston DDA: 706-245-7577; Lavonia DDA: 706-356-1923)
The Arts With the Carnegie Library: March 29, 6:30 p.m., Lavonia Depot, Lavonia. Please call 706-356-1926 or 706356-5725 to learn more. Easter Bunny Activities: March 31, 10 a.m., the gazebo in downtown Lavonia. Bring your family to visit the Easter Bunny and enjoy an egg hunt downtown! For more information, please call 706-3561926 or 706-356-5725 Easter Egg Hunt: March 31, 10:30 a.m., VFW, 948 Franklin Springs St., Royston. For details, Visit www.cityofRoyston.com. Farmers Market: Opens March 31, 10 a.m., the gazebo in downtown Lavonia. Find fresh, locally grown goodies right in downtown Lavonia. Please call 706-356-1926 or 706-356-5725 for more information.
Tea Tasting: April 14 & June 16, 10 a.m., the gazebo in downtown Lavonia. Enjoy the finer things in life at this lovely tea tasting in downtown Lavonia. Call 706-3561926 or 706-356-5725 to learn more. Lavonia History Day: April 26, 2 p.m., Lavonia Cemetery, Lavonia. Learn about your local history during this spring event. For more information, please call 706-356-1926 or 706-356-5725. Music on Main With Tugalo Holler: May 4, 7 p.m., the gazebo in downtown Lavonia. This event will feature live music and fun. To learn more, please call 706-3561926 or 706-356-5725. Spring Festival: May 5, 9 a.m., downtown Lavonia. Local vendors, delicious food, live music and arts & crafts will all be present during the spring festival! Please contact 706-356-1926 or 706-356-5725 for more details and vendor applications. Music on Main With Second Time Around: June 8, 7 p.m., the gazebo in downtown Lavonia. For more information, call 706-356-1926 or 706-356-5725.
HABERSHAM COUNTY www.habershamga.com www.habershamchamber.com www.corneliageorgia.org www.clarkesvillega.com (Chamber of Commerce: 706-778-4654; Better Hometown- Cornelia: 706-778-7875; Clarkesville City Hall: 706-754-2220; Cornelia City Hall: 706-778-8585; Demorest City Hall: 706-778-4202)
56th Annual Mountain Laurel Festival: May 19, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., downtown Clarkesville. Enjoy a festival full of crafts, food, beverages and fun! Please contact Julie Poole, Clarkesville City Hall, at 706-7544216 or send an email to jpoole@clarkes villega.com for more information. “Anne of Green Gables”: June 1-3, 7-10, Habersham Community Theater, Clarkesville. Ticket pricing can be found at www.habershamtheater.org. Bicycle Ride Across Georgia: June 7, downtown Clarkesville. BRAG participants traveling from Rome to Hartwell will roll through town. Come support their efforts! Learn more at www.brag.org/routes. Sip & Stroll: June 7, downtown Clarkesville. Enjoy wine tasting as you explore the charming downtown area, and stay to watch the Bicycle Ride Across Georgia riders as they pass through. Details can be found at www.clarkesvillega.com.
HALL COUNTY www.hallcounty.org www.gainesville.org (Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce: 770532-6206; Convention & Visitors Bureau: 770-536-5209; Main Street Gainesville: 770297-1141)
Spring Chicken Festival: April 28, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., the square, downtown Gainesville. Georgia’s only official chicken cook off! In addition to the opportunity to sample some of the best chicken around, there will be an an upcycled/ recycled art/craft market, live music and more! $5 bucks for a cluck card that will get you 10 delicious food samples. Please visit www.gainesville.org/ spring-chicken-festival.
HART COUNTY www.hart-chamber.org www.hartwellmainstreet.com (Chamber of Commerce: 706-376-8590 or hartchamber@hartcom.net; DDA: 706-376-0188)
Karaoke With Bennie Bee: Third Monday of the month, March through June, 6 p.m., Hart County Community Theatre, 83 Depot St., Hartwell. All ages are welcome. Admission is free. Please call 706-376-5599 or visit www.hartcounty communitytheatre.com. Community Easter Egg Hunt: March 31, 11 a.m., Courthouse Square in downtown Hartwell. This event is sponsored by the Hart County Chamber of Commerce and is open to kids ages 12 and under. Bring your Easter basket and join in the fun. Please visit www.hartwellmainstreet.com for more information. Annual Plant Sale: April 6-7, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Hart County Botanical Garden on Georgia Highway 77 S just past Hart EMC, Hartwell. Many difficult to find plants plus ornamental shrubs and a large variety of perennials and annuals will be available. For more information, please visit www.hartcogardens.org. Oldies but Goodies: April 13 & 14, the Savannah River Playhouse, 86 S. Forest Ave., Hartwell. Enjoy hits of the ‘50s and ‘60s. For more information, please call 706-376-7397. Lake Hartwell Antique Boat Festival: April 21, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Hartwell Continued on page 42
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SPRING 2018 EVENTS Marina, Hartwell. Check out the beautifully restored antique boats. This event includes an arts & crafts show, an antique and classic car show, kids’ activities, inflatables for the kids, food and music. This is the official kickoff for the spring and summer season and is free to the public. For more information, please contact the Chamber of Commerce by email at hartchamber@hartcom.net or by phone at 706-376-8590. Come & Cruise In: April 21, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Hartwell. Attention antique and classic car owners! You are invited to cruise in at the Antique Boat Festival. There is no cost to come. Just meet at 9 a.m. at the Belk’s of Hartwell parking lot for parade line up. At 9:30 a.m. the Hartwell Police Department will escort you to the Hartwell Marina for parking. You can stay as long as you like and enjoy the festival. Also on hand will be food, music, arts & crafts and kids’ activities. For more information, please contact the Chamber of Commerce by email at hartchamber@hartcom.net or by phone at 706-376-8590. 40th Annual Lake Hartwell Dam Run: May 5, Big Oaks Recreation Area, Hartwell. There will be a 5KRun/Walk and a 10K Run. This event is sponsored by the Hart County Running Club. Register at www.active.com. For more information, please call the Hart County Chamber of Commerce at 706-376-8590. 11th Annual Car & Guitars Festival: May 26, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., the square, downtown Hartwell. Come out to see the beautiful antique, classic and custom cars and trucks. Shop the antique and vintage memorabilia booths section. Enjoy classic rock ‘n’ roll music all day. There will be plenty of activities for kids. To enter and reserve your spot, please contact the Hart County Chamber of Commerce by email at hartchamber@hartcom.net, call 706376-8590, or stop by the Chamber office. Lake Hartwell Music Festival: May 26, 1-10 p.m., Long Point Recreation Area (at the end of Old Highway 29), Hartwell. All proceeds will go to HYDRA. Enjoy nine live bands, food and retail vendors, activities, snacks and crafts. With the beautiful waters of Lake Hartwell as a backdrop, this will be an amazing holiday-weekend event. For information, please contact Tray Hicks by phone at 706-436-9695 or 42 Northeast Georgia Living
by email tray@trayhicks.com. Challenge of the Centuries Bike Ride: May 26-27, Hartwell. This is event is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Hartwell. Choose your mileage as you ride over hills, past farmlands, over the dam and by the lakeshore. Please visit www. challengeofthecenturies.com to register. Spring Lake Homes Showcase: June 16, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Hartwell. If you have ever dreamed of owning the perfect lake house, here is your opportunity to find it. Take the tour through luxurious and immaculate lake homes to find your match. Please call 706-376-8590 to learn more or visit www.hart-chamber.org.
JACKSON COUNTY www.jacksoncountyga.com www.cityofhoschton.com www.commercega.org www.mainstreetcommercega.com www.cityofjeffersonga.com www.mainstreetjefferson.com www.braselton.net (Chamber of Commerce: 706-387-0300; Commerce DDA: 706-335-2954; Jefferson Better Hometown: 706-215-3345; Jefferson City Hall: 706-367-7202; Braselton City Hall: 770-654-3915)
Annual Easter Parade & Egg Hunt: March 31, 10 a.m., downtown Commerce. The parade is for children 12 years and younger to enjoy. Please follow www. facebook.com/commerceddamainstreet for details. Monthly Braselton Farmers Market: Every third Friday, beginning April 20, 4-7 p.m., 9924 Davis St. (the Braselton Brothers patio on Davis St. at Georgia Highway 53), downtown Braselton. To see a vendor list and market updates, please visit www. facebook.com/BraseltonFarmersMarket. Braselton Antique Festival: April 27-29, downtown Braselton. Friday’s hours will be 12-7 p.m., Saturday’s hours will be 9 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday’s hours will be 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Over 250 vendors will line the streets, selling their best antiques, repurposed creations, original artwork, rustics, primitives, furniture, pottery, jewelry, home decor, textiles, good old junk and much more! There will be food trucks and live music! Attendance has been 25,000 and is growing. Admission is free. Parking and a shuttle are available! Continued on page 44
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SPRING 2018 EVENTS Please visit www.countrysideantiques.net for more information. Fretting the Foothills Music Festival: April 28 & June 2, 12-8 p.m., town green, downtown Braselton. Join us for this free event and enjoy some great homegrown music from the area. April 28 is the first date in a series of songwriter and music events scheduled for 2018 on the town green in Braselton. June 2 is the second date. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets so you can relax and listen on the green. Along with the BIG Braselton Antique & Artisan Festival, this is going to be a fantastic weekend in downtown Braselton! For more information, please visit www.frettingthefoothills.com or www. facebook.com/FrettingtheFoothills. Daisy Festival: May 4-5, 10 a.m., Nicholson City Park, Nicholson. Enjoy food, entertainment, games, a cake walk and the Miss Daisy pageant. Craft vendors will be located throughout the park with all kinds of homemade items. The parade starts at 10 a.m. on Saturday morning. Please visit nicholson-ga.com for details. Toast to Braselton Dinner & Auction: May 10, 6-9 p.m., Braselton Event Center, downtown Braselton. Proceeds benefit the downtown Development Authority and Braselton Main Street programs. For event details and updates, please visit www.facebook.com/downtownBraselton. Jammin’ in the Park Market Day Festival: May 12, Hoschton. This festival will feature a Jamboree concert and the Shriners. Please visit www.cityofhoschton.net to learn more. Braselton Beach Bash: May 12, 3-10 p.m., downtown Braselton. In the spirit of the beach, we’ll have sand, pails and shovels so kids can play. Bring your beach chairs or towels and kick back and listen to live music, nosh on snacks from a variety of food trucks, and watch the kiddos play. We’ll have fun giveaways too! Please visit www.facebook.com/Downtown Braselton for details as they develop. Movie Under the Stars on the Green: May 19 & June 16, dusk, town green, downtown Braselton. Grab your lawn chairs and blankets and join us for this year’s first Movie Under the Stars on the Green. Concessions will be available. We select the latest releases, so we’ll post the movie title as soon as it’s selected. Follow downtown Braselton on Facebook for 44 Northeast Georgia Living
event details and updates at www.face book.com/downtownBraselton. Community Cleanup: June 8-10, Hoschton. Please visit www.city ofhoschton.net to learn more. June Bug Concert on the Green: June 16, town green, downtown Hoschton. Visit www.cityofhoschton.net to learn more.
LUMPKIN COUNTY www.dahlonega.org (Chamber of Commerce: 706-864-3711 or 800-231-5543; Dahlonega-Lumpkin County Visitors Center: 706-864-3513)
Georgia Wine Highway: March 16-25. Spend a week enjoying views of Northeast Georgia paired with award-winning local wines. For pricing and details, please visit www.georgiawine.com/events/2018wine-highway-weekend. Dahlonega Literary Festival: March 24-25, historic downtown Dahlonega. This annual event celebrates the written word and is free to the public. Learn more about this book lover’s paradise by visiting literaryfestival.org. Bear on the Square Mountain Festival: April 21-22, historic downtown Dahlonega. Come and celebrate southern Appalachian culture. The weekend festivities will include live bluegrass and gospel music, an Artist Marketplace featuring mountain crafts, free music workshops, storytelling for children, classes for string musicians, mountain dances and kids’ activities. Please see dahlonega.org for more information. Jeeps in the Vines Car Show: April 22, Kaya Vineyards & Winery, Dahlonega. Enjoy live music, delicious food and drinks and unique jeeps. Visit www. kayavineyards.com for more information. Dahlonega Arts & Wine Festival: May 19-20, historic downtown Dahlonega. View and purchase crafts made in a multitude of mediums by over 70 jury-selected artists. Also indulge in local food and drinks while you listen to live music. Learn more by visiting www.dahlonega. org or www.chestateeartists.org. Mountain Top Rodeo at R-Ranch: June 16-17, R-Ranch in the Mountains, Dahlonega. Enjoy this exciting live rodeo with family and friends. Events will include bareback bronc riding, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, roping, bull Continued on page 46
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SPRING 2018 EVENTS riding and ladies’ barrel racing, among many others. Buy tickets now at www. mountaintoprodeo.com.
OCONEE COUNTY www.oconeecounty.com www.oconeechamber.org (Oconee County Chamber of Commerce: 706769-7947; Welcome Center: 706-769-5197)
3rd Annual Oconee Garden Tour: April 28, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Oconee County. The Oconee Garden Tour will highlight local gardens in Oconee County. The locations will be determined at a later time. Learn more at www.oconeeconnection.org.
RABUN COUNTY www.gamountains.com www.downtownclaytonga.org www.explorerabun.com (Chamber of Commerce: 706-782-4812; Civic Center: 706-212-2142)
Georgia Wine Highway: March 16-25. Spend a week enjoying views of Northeast Georgia paired with awarding-winning local wines. For pricing and details, please visit www.georgiawine.com/ events/2018-wine-highway-weekend. Sunset Easter Egg Hunt at the Gorge: March 30, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Tallulah Gorge State Park, Tallulah Falls. Head to the Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center to celebrate Easter with crafts, popcorn and an egg hunt at sunset. This event is for children ages 0-12. Learn more at www. georgiastateparks.org/TallulahGorge. Full Moon Suspension Bridge Hike: March 30-31, 6:45-8:15 p.m., Tallulah Gorge State Park, Tallulah Falls. Enjoy watching the moon rise above the gorge from the suspension bridge while you learn some interesting facts about the moon. Learn more at www.georgiastate parks.org/TallulahGorge. Bluegrass on the Square: Every Saturday night, rain or shine, from the first Saturday of April through the last Saturday of October, 7 p.m., Tallulah Falls. Enjoy live bluegrass music, a bonfire, roasting marshmallows and eating hot dogs right off the grill. Please visit www.explore rabun.com to learn more. Whitewater-Watching Hike: April 7, 8 & 15, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Tallulah Gorge State Park, Tallulah Falls. Join a ranger-led hike 46 Northeast Georgia Living
down to Bridal Veil Falls to watch courageous paddlers take on the whitewater of the Tallulah River. Learn more at www. georgiastateparks.org/TallulahGorge. Hatch Camp & Art Farm Concert: April 14 & May 12, 5-10 p.m., Hatch Camp, Clayton. Enjoy dinner and live music at the camp. Dinner starts at 5 p.m., and music begins at 6 p.m. Admission is $20. Follow www.facebook.com/hatchcamp to learn more. 19th Annual Celebrate Clayton Festival: April 28-29, Main Street, downtown Clayton. Saturday’s hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday’s hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Enjoy the work of 100 artists and craftsmen. This FREE event, presented by the North Georgia Arts Guild, is for all ages and will feature local musicians at the Rock House, a student art display, a children’s creative art corner and food. Profits will benefit the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts and will enhance the scholarship funds of the Arts Guild. Please visit www.celebrateclayton.com for details. Mom & Me Fly Fishing Weekend: May 11-13, Hatch Camp, Clayton. Take your mom fly fishing for Mother’s Day! Both beginners and those who are more advanced are welcome. Please follow www. facebook.com/HatchCamp to learn more. Bull Riding at the Rabun Arena: May 19, 8-10 p.m., Tiger. Enjoy a fun night with your family while you watch brave riders take on the bulls. Please see ticket pricing at www.rabunarena.com.
STEPHENS COUNTY www.mainstreettoccoa.com www.toccoagachamber.com (Chamber of Commerce: 706-886-2132)
Larry Gatlin, Live at the Ritz: March 25, the Ritz Theatre, Toccoa. Please visit www.ritztheatretoccoa.com for ticket information. Reverend Tribble & the Deacons, Live at the Ritz: April 5, the Ritz Theatre, Toccoa. Please visit www.ritztheatre toccoa.com for ticket information. The Ritz Presents ... The Oscars: April 6, 20 & 27. Three of the 10 Best Picture Oscar winners, chosen by citizens of Toccoa, will be showing at the Ritz Theatre. Shoppers who shop downtown during the month of the movie showing will receive a free voucher for two for a movie night with concessions at the Ritz. The red carpet will be rolled out, and a cutout
of the Oscar trophy will be available for pictures. Find out what movies are playing at www.ritztheatretoccoa.com. Henry Cho, Live at the Ritz: April 13, the Ritz Theatre, Toccoa. Visit www.ritz theatretoccoa.com for ticket information. Shane Mathis Release Party, Live at the Ritz: April 21, the Ritz Theatre, Toccoa. Please visit www.ritztheatretoccoa.com for ticket information. Georgia Cities Week in Toccoa: April 2228, Toccoa. The City of Toccoa will host a special week of family-friendly activities to celebrate Georgia Cities Week. Learn more about this event by visiting www. cityoftoccoa.com or www.mainstreet toccoa.com. Nitrograss, Live at the Ritz: May 3, the Ritz Theatre, Toccoa. Visit www.ritz theatretoccoa.com for ticket information. Toast of Toccoa: May 5, historic downtown Toccoa. Attend this wine, craft beer, food, arts and music festival and have an experience to remember. Details are available at www.mainstreettoccoa.com. Currahee Artists’ Guild Spring Arts & Craft Show: May 5, downtown Toccoa. Details are available at www.mainstreet toccoa.com. Cherry Cherry, Live at the Ritz: May 19, the Ritz Theatre, Toccoa. Please visit www.ritztheatretoccoa.com for ticket information. Ida Cox Music Series: June 2, 9 & 16, historic downtown Toccoa. Admission to all concerts is free. Listen to quality live music and enjoy delicious food and drink downtown. For more information, please visit www.idacoxmusicseries.com. Summer Movies at the Ritz: June 7 & 14, the Ritz Theatre, Toccoa. Find out what movies are playing at www.ritztheatre toccoa.com.
TOWNS COUNTY www.mountaintopga.com (Chamber of Commerce: 706-896-4966; Towns County Tourism: 706-896-0589)
Georgia Wine Highway: The week of March 16-25. Spend a week enjoying views of Northeast Georgia paired with awarding-winning local wines. For pricing and details, please visit www.georgiawine.com/ events/2018-wine-highway-weekend. Southern Uprising Tour With the Marshall Tucker Band, the Charlie Daniels Continued on page 48
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SPRING 2018 EVENTS Band and Travis Tritt: March 24, 7-10:30 p.m., Anderson Music Hall, Hiawassee. The Southern Uprising Tour will provide a great night of entertainment for all ages. Get tickets at www.georgia mountainfairgrounds.com. Get Outdoors! Expo: April 7, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Towns County Conference Center, Young Harris. If you enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, camping and cycling, find your new gear here. Compare prices, learn about camping and outdoor skills and enjoy meeting likeminded individuals. Please visit www.golake chatuge.com for more information. A Blooming Affair: Begins April 14, Fred Hamilton Gardens, Hiawassee. Enjoy a scenic garden stroll as you admire over 2,000 blooming flowers. There will be plant sales and garden events every weekend. Visit hamiltongardens.org. 2018 Georgia Mountain EggFest: May 19, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, Hiawassee. Don’t miss this opportunity to indulge in delicious food grilled by locals. Visit www.mountain egg.com for details. 3rd Annual North Georgia Highlands Seafood Festival: June 1-3, Mayors Park, downtown Young Harris. Friday’s hours will be 1-9 p.m., Saturday’s hours will be 10 a.m.-9 p.m., and Sunday’s hours will be 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Stroll through more than 50 arts & crafts exhibits, enjoy live music, eat seafood and enjoy refreshing drinks at the beer and wine gardens. This event was named one of the top 20 events in the Southeast by the Southeast Tourism Society.
UNION COUNTY www.blairsvillechamber.com www.downtownblairsville.com (Chamber of Commerce: 877-745-4789 or 706-745-5789)
Georgia Mountain Storytelling Festival: April 13-14, Union County Fine Arts Center, Blairsville. Enjoy the voices of Appalachia as you hear stories and attend workshops that promote cultural intelligence through the arts of listening and speaking. Please visit www.ga mountainstoryfest.org to learn more. Appalachian Food & Wine Trail: May 4, noon-6 p.m., Paradise Hills Resort and Winery, Blairsville. Taste the flavors of 48 Northeast Georgia Living
Appalachia. Please visit www.paradise hillsga.com to buy tickets. Armed Forces Day Ceremony: May 19, 11 a.m.-noon, downtown Blairsville. The Armed Forces Day ceremony honors and remembers the men and women who are bound by oath and duty to serve and protect the United States of America. Tie a yellow ribbon in honor of your loved one serving in the military. Read more at www.unioncountyhistory.org. Memorial Day Parade: May 26, 10 a.m., downtown Blairsville. Each Memorial Day weekend downtown Blairsville salutes those who have served our country with a community parade at 10 a.m. and a ceremony at War Memorial Park at 11 a.m. Learn more at www.unioncounty history.org. Spring Arts, Crafts & Music Festival: May 26-27, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., downtown Blairsville. At this juried event, artists and craftsmen will exhibit their work on the square surrounding Union County’s historic courthouse. Enjoy a variety of food vendors and live performances by dancers and musicians. Admission is free. Please call 706-745-5493 or visit www.unioncountyhistory.org for more information. American Cancer Society Relay for Life: May 26, 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Union County Farmers Market, 148 Old Smokey Road, Blairsville. Support the cause while enjoying good food and entertainment. You will also find unique Relay items for sale. Attend the Survivor Lap, the Luminaria Ceremony and more. Please call 706-8358384 or visit www.unioncountyrelay.com to learn more. 15th Annual Blairsville Scottish Festival & Highland Games: June 9-10, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Meeks Park, 11 Pool Lane, Blairsville. Discover your “clan” and hang out with locals and visitors enjoying traditional games, Highland music, dancing and food with a Scottish flair. Watch border collies herd sheep and falcons swoop down on “prey” or check your roots at the Heritage Tent. For the “wee ones” there’s face painting and train rides. The weekend includes a kilted golf classic, a ceilidh party, a kilted mile run, a clan tug of war, a bonniest knees contest, and a Scottish rock concert. Call 706-745-5789 or visit www.blairsvillescottishfestival. org to learn more. Continued on page 50
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SPRING 2018 EVENTS 12th Annual Mountain Fling: June 23, 9 a.m.-5p.m. & June 24, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., North Georgia Technical College, 121 Meeks Ave., Blairsville. This is a two-day juried show featuring original fine art and fine crafts, ceramics, fiber art, linens, jewelry, soaps, gourds, leather goods, pet items and outdoor art. Learn more at www.artguildstore.com.
WHITE COUNTY www.whitecountychamber.org www.helenchamber.com www.helenga.org (Convention & Visitors Bureau: 706-878-5608; Helen Welcome Center & Chamber of Commerce: 706-878-1619; White County Chamber of Commerce: 706-865-5356)
29th Annual Helen Trout Tournament: March 31, the Chattahoochee River, Helen. Register at the Helen Festhalle on Friday, March 30, between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. or on Saturday, March 31, from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. The entry fee is $20. This event is open to all ages. The entry fee includes two raffle tickets for prizes, plus contestants get a T-shirt while supplies last. Community Easter Egg Hunt: March 31, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Unicoi State Park and Lodge, Helen. Enjoy hay rides, live music and arts & crafts in the Bottoms Field. Please call 706-878-2201, ext. 549, with questions. Tails on Trails: April 7, 10 a.m.-noon, Unicoi State Park & Lodge, Helen. Bring your pup to this dog-friendly hike along the 2.5-mile Lake Loop Trail. All dogs will receive a souvenir bandana. Please call 706-878-2201, ext. 549, with questions. Paddle Under the Stars: April 21, 8-10 p.m., Unicoi State Park & Lodge, Helen. Paddleboard at night on Unicoi Lake! Participants must be at least 12 years of age, and all children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Please call 706878-2201, ext. 549, for more details. 26th Annual WineFest: May 5, Habersham Winery, Helen. Sample the fine wines produced by the Winegrowers Association of Georgia all at one location! Enjoy great music and see fine arts & crafts. Visit www. habershamwinery.com for details. Katie Deal Concert: May 19, 5-7 p.m., Hardman Farm State Historic Site, Sautee Nacoochee. Enjoy music from the good 50 Northeast Georgia Living
old days as Katie Deal performs classic country music. Please call 706-878-1077 for more details. Bavarianfest: May 26, 6-11 p.m., the Festhalle, Helen. Experience a live oompah band, dancing and a festive German atmosphere. Enjoy imported and domestic beers and wines, soft drinks, wurst on a bun with sauerkraut, hot dogs and more. Please visit www.helenchamber.com for more information. 18th Annual US Rider News Reunion Run and 13th Annual Southeast Victory Run: May 31-June 2, Riverside Park, Helen. Come on out and ride with hundreds of other motorcyclists during this exciting three-day event with dinners, parties, raffles, a bike show, bike games, a poker run and much more. Please see www. victoryrally.com for more details. 45th Annual Helen-Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race: May 31-June 2, 7 a.m.-7 p.m., Alpine Village, Helen. This year is the 45th annual Helen to the Atlantic Hot Air Balloon Race. Balloon pilots from around the world come to the Alpine Village of Helen to fill the sky for a three-day display. The Helen to the Atlantic is the only long-distance hot air balloon race in the United States of its kind. It is also the oldest balloon event in the South. Please visit helenballoon.com for details. u
To list events in future issues, please send an email to negaliving@yahoo. com or mail hard copies to P.O. Box 270, Franklin Springs, GA 30639. Deadline for the Summer 2018 issue is April 10, 2018. Please include events covering the period from June 20, 2018, through Sept. 20, 2018. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our listing of scheduled events. For additional information and for confirmation, please call either local sponsors or chamber of commerce offices.
Spring 2018 51
TRAILS MAC-N-CHEESE
T
STORY AND PHOTOS BY PAMELA A. KEENE
The Ultimate Comfort Food
Traditional macaroni and cheese is indeed the epitome of Southern comfort food. OK, so its origins are shrouded in various legends, from the 13th century Neapolitan court of Charles II of Anjou to Thomas Jefferson’s bringing back the notion from his travels in France and Italy and serving it at his Virginia home in Monticello. For decades, young brides in the South inevitably received multiple recipes for this delicacy, passed down from generations of grandmothers, aunts and kindly spinsters. In 1937, mac-n-cheese was reduced to a box of uncooked elbow noodles and a packet of powdered cheese by Kraft Foods. Since that time, most youngsters have cut their teeth on this “convenience” version. As parents morphed into working couples and time for cooking vaporized, in some circles it became the gold standard. In the true South, the “real” macaroni and cheese is a staple at church picnics, family gatherings and holiday meals. Restaurants from mom-and-pop cafeterias to white-tablecloth establishments that elect to serve this Southern comfort food have carefully guarded recipes with their own signature tastes. Northeast Georgia Living logged some miles to search out our region’s various iterations of this popular dish. Here’s what we found:
Kelley and Chris Tamplin
ROYSTON
The Old Corner Hardware Store Kelley Tamplin always had a dream to open a sandwich shop, and after 20 years in the dental field, she got her wish when the old hardware store in downtown Royston went on the market. Two years ago after extensive renovations, she opened the Old Corner Hardware Store Lunchroom with the theme “Great lunches. From Scratch.” Macaroni and cheese is a lunchtime staple here and is based on her Aunt Frances Cromer’s recipe, which uses elbow macaroni, Monterey jack and cheddar cheeses, eggs, milk and butter. She admits that she likes the Kraft variety, but “it’s not real mac-n-cheese.” 919 Church Street, Royston; 706-245-4182; Monday evenings 5-8 p.m.; Tuesday-Friday; 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
LAVONIA
211 Main Street Restaurant After 25 years of baking pies in Kansas, Bob Toews moved to Northeast Georgia for a warmer climate, and he and his wife, Trish, joined the Mennonite Church of God in Bob Toews Christ. Eleven years ago they opened 211 Main Street Restaurant, specializing in desserts but also serving lunch and Friday evening dinners. Offering daily lunch plates in addition to menu selections, Bob serves mac-n-cheese and green beans as sides to his homemade meatloaf. The recipe is Bob’s own creation and uses a white sauce base with cream cheese and sharp cheddar. Black pepper and red pepper flakes make the dish distinctive; it’s garnished with grated cheddar. 211 W. Main St., Lavonia; 706-356-2877; www.211mainstreet.com; MondayThursday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday, 5-8:30 p.m. 52 Northeast Georgia Living
Bryan Wise
HARTWELL
The Table After 20 years in the restaurant business, Bryan Wise opened The Table in November 2015. He and wife Mindy moved from Alpharetta to be closer to her family and quickly opened the restaurant in the old Western Auto Store downtown. Their theme? “Our Community, Our Restaurant, Our Table.” To emphasize the sense of community, they encouraged residents to donate plates and glassware when they opened. “Nothing matches, and people come in all the time and remark about the plates they brought,” he says. As for The Table’s macaroni and cheese, it’s available every day. Bryan has modified a family recipe and uses ribbed elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese sauce and sharp cheddar plus milk and eggs. It’s the restaurant’s signature side item.
Alan Pope (left), Forest Hetland
ATHENS
The Place Located in the heart of downtown, right across from the University of Georgia campus, The Place is the brainchild of Jim Pope and his sons Alan and Ryan. The Place serves “refined Southern fare,” including meat and two or three sides at lunch, burgers and signature salads at lunch and supper, and entrees such as shrimp and grits at night. Daily specials may include meatloaf, country-fried steak, barbecue, chicken & dumplings and catfish. The Place’s Gouda mac-ncheese is always on the menu and is one of the restaurant’s most popular sides. It’s made with elbow macaroni, smoked Gouda, sharp cheddar and Parmesan plus cream and butter. “We’re heavy on the cream,” says kitchen manager Forest Hetland, who created the recipe with the Popes. For a different twist, The Place serves fried mac-n-cheese balls.
Open six days a week for breakfast and lunch and Tuesday and Wednesday evenings for supper, The Roystonian serves food cafeteria style as well as from its extensive menu. Owners Mike and Jennifer Stoyle purchased the Roystonian from Mike’s mother, Barbara Stoyle, who opened the eatery in 1981. Their mac-n-cheese recipe was passed down from Mike’s granny, Martha Fitzpatrick. The mac-n-cheese features large ziti noodles, cheddar cheese, salt, eggs and milk with grated cheese melted on top. It’s served on Tuesdays and Fridays only.
229 E. Broad St., Athens; 706-850-2988; Daily, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
1160 E. Main St., Royston; 706-245-7243; Monday-Saturday, 5 a.m.-2 p.m.; Tuesday-Wednesday, 4-8 p.m.
Mike and Jennifer Stoyle
ROYSTON
126 W. Franklin St., Hartwell; 706-376-1931; www.thetableofhartwell.com; TuesdayThursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Saturday 5-10 p.m.
The Roystonian
Spring 2018 53
54 Northeast Georgia Living
TRAILS MAC-N-CHEESE
Jackie Sinclair
ILA
Ila Restaurant When Jackie Sinclair bought this restaurant in 1985, she created all new recipes that are billed as “traditional country cooking.” Along with her husband Barry, she’s operated the restaurant for 33 years, and they are now serving their third generation of customers. Her trademark is simple recipes. “Almost everything we prepare has five or less ingredients,” she says. The mac-n-cheese takes six: elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, eggs, milk, salt and butter. Diners can choose from the menu or be served cafeteria style from a choice of several meat entrees and various sides. Macaroni and cheese is always served on Tuesdays and Fridays and on every other Sunday. 81 Main St., Ila; 706-789-2356; Tuesday-Friday, 5:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sunday 6 a.m. - 3 p.m. u Spring 2018 55
French
Souffl es ´
T
These quick souffle´ s add an elegant touch to any meal or gathering. They are alluring, with their delicately puffed tops and buttery appearance, and taste delightful as they melt in your mouth. Originating in France in the early 18th century, these light and creamy dishes can be served as savory main courses and side dishes or as sweet desserts to finish off a sophisticated dining experience. In French, the root of the word “souffl´e” actually means “to puff,” which is the perfect descriptor. Each of these recipes calls for a round 1 1/2-quart ramekin or baking dish, but you can also use individual smaller ramekins. Adjust the cooking time as needed as the smaller dishes require a shorter cooking time. Some people believe that slamming a door or performing loud housework during the baking of a souffl´e can make it collapse. Serve immediately, before the puffed-up souffl´e begins to settle. 56 Northeast Georgia Living
STORY AND PHOTOS BY SYDNAH KINGREA
Easy Cheese Souffl´e 3 tablespoons butter 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 cup milk 1 cup grated cheddar cheese 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese A dash of salt and pepper 3 eggs, separated 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
Heat the oven to 350 F. Butter a baking dish or ramekin and set aside. Over low to medium heat, melt the butter in a saucepan, add the flour and then whisk until blended. Add the milk a little at a time and whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to simmer. Add the grated cheddar and Parmesan cheese and the salt and pepper and remove from heat. Beat the egg yolks in a separate small dish and then add them to the cooled mixture. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs white and cream of tartar until they form stiff peaks. Fold the egg whites into the mixture so as not to deflate them and gently pour the combined mixture into a buttered dish. Bake at 350 F for 35 minutes or until the top has risen and is a golden brown color. Serve immediately.
Orange Marmalade Souffl´e
Spinach Souffl´e 1 pound fresh spinach or Swiss chard 4 tablespoons softened butter, plus some butter for buttering ramekin 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 3/4 teaspoon salt 1 cup milk 1/8 teaspoon pepper 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg 3 eggs, separated 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar Heat the oven to 375 F. Prepare and cook the spinach by saut´eing in a nonstick pan until the leaves are wilted. Grease a 1 1/2-quart souffl´e dish with butter. Coat the bottom of the buttered dish with the shredded Parmesan cheese. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in the flour and salt and whisk constantly until well blended. Add the milk and cook over low to medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and begins to
Spinach Souffl´e
simmer. Add the cooked spinach to the flour mixture and cook for about a minute. Season with pepper, onion powder and nutmeg. In a separate small bowl, beat the egg yolks. Whisk 1/2 cup of the hot spinach into the yolks to temper them. Remove the pan from the heat and then add the yolk mixture back into the hot spinach and flour sauce. Stir to completely blend. Do not return to the heat as the yolk and spinach mixture need to be kept in liquid form. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs whites and the cream of tartar until stiff peaks begin to form. Fold the egg whites into the mixture carefully so as not to deflate the whites. Gently pour the mixture into the souffl´e dish and bake at 375 F for 30 minutes or until the souffl´e is puffed up and golden brown. Serve immediately. This recipe can also be prepared with a pound of chopped cooked broccoli.
Orange Marmalade Souffl´e Butter and sugar for ramekin 3/4 cup milk 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1/4 cup sugar 2 teaspoons orange marmalade 1/4 cup fresh orange juice 5 large egg whites 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar Dash of salt 2 tablespoons sugar Heat the oven to 375 F. Butter the ramekin and sprinkle the sugar in the dish. Pour the milk into a small saucepan and begin heating over low to medium heat. Add the flour a little at a time and continually whisk until the mixture is smooth. Add 1/4 cup sugar and the orange marmalade and stir until combined. Heat until the mixture begins to simmer or becomes thick and smooth. Stir in the orange juice and remove from heat. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the egg whites, the cream of tartar and a dash of salt. Beat at high speed and gradually add 2 tablespoons of sugar, continually beating until the mixture forms stiff white peaks. Fold the egg whites into the orange mixture gently and pour the mixture into the prepared souffl´e dish. Bake at 375 F for 40 minutes or until puffy and golden brown. Serve immediately. Continued on page 58 Spring 2018 57
Chocolate Lover’s Souffl´e Butter and sugar for ramekin 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream 12 ounces milk chocolate chips 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract A dash of salt 2 egg yolks 6 egg whites 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar 2 tablespoons sugar Heat the oven to 425 F. Butter the ramekin and sprinkle sugar in the dish. Heat the heavy cream over low to medium heat. Dump the chocolate chips into a separate medium-sized mixing bowl. Once the cream begins to simmer, remove it from the heat and pour it over the chocolate chips. Let it sit for a few minutes as it gradually heats up the chocolate. Once warm, stir the chocolate chips until they are smooth. If the chocolate chip mixture
58 Northeast Georgia Living
is lumpy, warm it in the oven till it melts a little more and then stir it again until smooth. Add the vanilla extract, a dash of salt and the egg yolks to the chocolate mixture and stir until smooth. Set aside. Put the egg whites and the cream of tartar into a separate mixing bowl. Beat at high speed, gradually adding in 2 tablespoons of sugar until stiff white peaks form. Fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture and then gently pour the mixture into a buttered ramekin. Place the ramekin in the oven and immediately reduce the heat to 375 F. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until puffed up. Serve immediately. u
Chocolate Lover’s Souffl´e baked in a mug
Spring 2018 59
BRAG COMES BACK TO NORTHEAST GEORGIA
HEADING FOR THE
HILLS F
ranklin Johnson remembers Bicycle Ride Across Georgia (BRAG) being hard when he was just a kid. Multiple days in the saddle, pedaling town-to-town across Georgia. But he also remembers it being rewarding, even entertaining. The experience led him to take up cycling as an adult. It’s not surprising then that Johnson, now in his third year as executive director of BRAG, is excited to take on the crossstate cycling challenge again in 2018. This year, for the first time since 2004, in north Georgia.
60 Northeast Georgia Living
“People are excited,” says Johnson regarding this year’s Big BRAG route, which traverses the foothills of the Appalachians from Rome to Hartwell. “It’s some of the best scenery in the state.” Plus, notes Johnson, popularity in road cycling is growing again. “People are riding on the road more, commuting. People are finding the bike again.” The BRAG event started in 1980 as a Georgia-based alternative to the popular Register’s Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa, or RAGBRAI. The first BRAG event crossed the state from Savannah to
Traversing the Appalachian foothills from Rome to Hartwell, cyclists will participate in the 2018 Bicycle Ride Across Georgia, starting from Rome on June 2 and arriving in Hartwell on June 9.
Photos courtesy of BRAG; campfire by David Hemphill
BY BRIAN COOKE
Columbus. Since that ride, BRAG has grown from one event to four, with the main annual event being “Big BRAG.” Organizers of Big BRAG choose a region for the weeklong bike trip, including ideal start and end points. Between those bookends, they spend time searching out quiet roads, idyllic views, local farms, historic sites, breweries and wineries, interested towns and an altogether “immersive experience.” Many people, asserts Johnson, especially those from out of state, think Georgia is “all peanuts and pecans” or the bright lights of Atlanta. But the Big BRAG route this year shows the other side of Georgia. Starting in downtown Rome on June 2, cyclists will head north to stay in Dalton, then south to Jasper. Then, going east, the route lands in Dahlonega for two nights. To finish, cyclists go through Clarkesville and Toccoa and finally, on June 9, Hartwell. BRAG hauls each rider’s camping gear and creature comforts between designated stops, even offering “First Class BRAG” for cyclists who like to have camp arranged for them when they arrive each night. Along the way, riders can visit rest stops that have food and drink to fuel the journey. While some take only three to four hours to pedal the average 50-plus miles per day, others may take eight hours. And that’s OK; it’s not a race. Event staff, volunteers and townspeople down the road will have the red carpet rolled out for riders whenever they finish. After years of planning this event, Johnson has met with town officials who look forward to hosting the event and with town officials who would prefer not to participate. For the most part, however, towns are “really excited” to show the “local hospitality that townspeople provide.” BRAG works with towns to identify adequate locations to house, feed, bathe and entertain the 1,500 riders. But the party often grows because BRAG tries to accommodate locals who want to join in the festivities. Oftentimes, towns will shut down a portion of the town to traffic to ensure that participants, their families and the townspeople have enough space to mingle, eat and drink. This year, BRAG will have organized post-ride games and prizes, Red Brick Brewing Company (a BRAG sponsor) will have its bar trailer, and many Spring 2018 61
towns will bring in bands to perform. Dahlonega is the only community hosting Big BRAG riders for two nights, enabling everyone to rest their legs for a day. During that time, participants can expect winery tours and tubing. Others can explore stores and restaurants downtown. For those who are gluttons for punishment, Dahlonega is the perfect launching pad to tackle some of the hardest biking in the mountains. Despite the obvious difficulties involved in coordinating large events, Christine Blomberg, director of the Hart County Chamber of Commerce, is looking forward to hosting the event along the shores of Lake Hartwell. “It’s great timing,” says Blomberg of the early June timeframe. “We can showcase the busy community and the lake.” Blomberg sees Hart County’s position as the final host community as a great opportunity for local small businesses. Family and friends who come into town to cheer on riders may go out to dinner and spend a night relaxing. Or better yet, hopes Blomberg, families will stay for multiple days to enjoy the lake. For riders, however, there are a lot of miles between now and the final stretch in Hart County. BRAG recommends putting in a few hundred miles in training rides before the big week of 300 miles. BRAG offers other organized rides – Winter Ride in February and Spring TuneUp in April – that provide interested riders with a chance to test their mettle and meet other riders before June. Not ready for a full week of cycling in the mountains yet? Additional options that BRAG has included to entice all types of cyclists are “Lite” and “Daily” options. These options are especially great for new riders or riders with busy schedules. “Lite” rides are three consecutive days. Some choose the first or the last weekend and others pick the layover town (Dahlonega in 2018). “Going up north [to north Georgia], attendance sometimes takes a dip,” says Johnson. He assumes this is because of the difficulty of cycling in the hills. This year, however, attendance is expected to stay steady at about 1,500 cyclists. The hills that may deter some, Johnson says, are the same hills that are likely to attract out-ofstate cyclists looking for great scenery and a challenge. Just remember, he reminds me, “for every uphill, there’s a downhill.” u 62 Northeast Georgia Living
Spring 2018 63
REFLECTIONS BY LYNDA ABERNATHY
...on the value of time
Q
uotes and phrases abound when it comes to the concept of time. It, like love, is a notion that exhibits symptoms, but the idea itself is difficult to fully describe. “A race against time,” the “test of time,” time “got away” from me – so many of our idioms relating to time express discord or struggle. Like love, we are ever chasing after more of it, but when it is staring us in the face, sometimes it can seem easier to disregard or resist it. We race against it, as we are either ahead or behind the times. We grapple with the keeping and wasting of it, waking to its screams when we are still sleepy and forcing ourselves to sleep when we are still wide awake. We are dominated by this concept, so why are we always fighting it? This spring, I encourage you to try embracing time. Just see what happens. When we “spring clean,” we wash away the grime, rid ourselves of excess, dust off the dirt, and open windows to let in the fresh air. What if we did the same in our lives? What would happen if we were to mesh the ideas of time and spring cleaning? What if we boxed up and discarded the things that consume our time, those small nagging squanderers that steal from us? What if, instead of worrying about the dishes (which, I can assure you, will still be there tomorrow) or loading our schedules with endless errands and chores, we took the time to smell the roses, so to speak (or the azaleas or magnolia blossoms of Northeast Georgia)? What if we actually paused for just a moment and breathed in the aroma of new life and new beginnings? What if we used a moment of our invaluable time to appreciate the warm Georgia sun on our faces? Moments are a perishable currency that should only be 64 Northeast Georgia Living
expended when something really matters. Time is our most precious commodity. Once spent, it is gone forever. Therefore, it is even more urgently necessary to spend it wisely. Why do we seem to allocate it to things that don’t matter in the big scheme of things? How many times have you ended your day with the idea that it was wasted? How often have the little irritants of daily life ruined your mood and made your entire day a disaster? This spring, we should sweep away the superfluous pieces and focus on the parts that really matter. We should wash away the excess of our own lives and leave some room for ourselves. Imagine you are at the very end of your life, the last few ticking seconds of time. What would you have wanted to do with all those years, if you could get them back, between that moment and the one spent reading this right now? What dreams would dance through your brain? What regrets would wash over you? What
what-ifs would float to the surface and what do-overs would you wish you had? Why not spend this season doing those things you would have wished you had done in our hypothetical scenario? We are so lucky to be living in Georgia at this time of year. The mountains are perfect for fresh air and for appreciating how green the new leaves bloom in spring. The weather is ripe for camping or backyard barbecues. Wildlife reemerges after a season of slumber. Festivals start popping up all over, with music and food and fun in abundance. I intend to spend my time partaking in these activities, making memories and cherishing those little moments that make life worth living. I want to feel fresh blades of grass between my toes as I sip on some lemonade and swat mosquitoes as I stare at the stars. I want to hike the trails of the Appalachian Mountains to the top of a mountain to remind myself how small I really am when the world seems so big and the sky presses down on me. I want to feel the cool water of a swimming hole against my warm skin – the sparkles of sunlight dancing across the water’s surface – stirring my senses and reminding me that I am alive. As you read these words, I would like to reiterate that you are here, you are alive, and you still have time. You live in the best part of the finest state in the greatest country in the world, with spring being the most beautiful season. In this time of growth and renewal, as you sweep away the winter and usher in the spring, I encourage you to use your time wisely. The minutes are ticking by, and the hands of the clock never stop spinning. So live your life the way you’ve always wanted and leave behind no regrets. Start now. Time is of the essence. u
Vol. 19 No. 1 • Display until June 20, 2018